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SOME OBITUARIES OF EARLY KAY COUNTY, OKLAHOMA, PIONEERS
September 1893 to December 1908
The First Fifteen Years
Introduction
This volume started as an attempt to locate obituaries for some names listed in early
records of Undertaker J. M. Hayden’s, who in June, 1895, established his funeral business in
Ponca City. Hayden’s, typical of many early day undertakers, was primarily a furniture store.
Among the furniture items he sold were caskets. Early records for his undertaking business were
receipt books giving the name of the person buying the casket. Sometimes the name of the
deceased was included on the receipt, sometimes not.
There were other undertakers in Ponca City at this time, but their records are lost. These
funeral homes also published obituaries in the two Ponca City newspapers extant at that time,
The Ponca City Courier and The Ponca City Democrat. Since it was as easy to gather all the
reported deaths as just for one funeral service, I decided to attempt to record all the local deaths
reported in early Ponca City, Oklahoma, newspapers.
Because of the proximity of Ponca City to western Osage County, eastern Grant County,
and northern Noble County, many of the death notices are of people who lived in these places.
There are many connections to the southern Kansas counties of Sumner, Cowley and
Chautauqua. The data collected is from September, 1893, the beginning of settlement of the
Cherokee Outlet, to the date when death certificates were first filed in Oklahoma, late 1908.
There are probably few, if any, death certificates filed with the Bureau of Vital Records
in Oklahoma before November 1908. Even after 1908 the filing of this statistical information
was haphazard. Many deaths went unrecorded because laws made it the responsibility of the
families to file the information. For various reasons, they often did not. The filing of vital
records was not strictly observed until about 1933 when laws required doctors, hospitals and
funeral homes to file this information with the state.
With no laws requiring death certificates in this early period, and if tombstones were not
placed at graves, newspaper records are the only source of death information, especially since
many cemeteries’ records have also been lost. Also, early cemetery records often contain the
name of the person who purchased the lot, and not the name of the person is interred in the lot.
Fortunately, Oklahoma newspapers have been very well preserved on microfilm. Most early
Kay County newspapers are in the microfilm collection of Ponca City Library. Issues for other
cities and counties are available for viewing at the Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS) in
Oklahoma City. These microfilm rolls may also be purchased from OHS
Unfortunately, some newspapers were lost before they were microfilmed because they
were not sent to the Oklahoma Historical Society. Some of the preserved papers were so faded
by the time they were photographed; the microfilmed copies are nearly unreadable. Many of the
original papers had items clipped from them long before they were microfilmed; thus this data
and that of the back of the page is lost forever. The newspapers were originally bound in large
volumes, and some of these seem to have been accidentally missed by the microfilming
technicians.
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A lot of death articles were merely funeral notices, which appeared in long columns of
type. These were very difficult to locate among the rows of closely spaced type. Some were, no
doubt, accidentally missed. If you have an ancestor who died in Ponca City during this time, and
you know the exact date of death, post a query on this web site, and someone will look up your
missed ancestor for you and add it to this site.
In some cases lodge resolutions, legal notices, or thank you cards were the only mention
of the dead person. Many of these only list the survivors' names. There were reports of the
deaths of unknown folks who were just passing through this newly settled land. With no
identification on their body, there was no way to know who they were; nor could their relatives
be notified.
The kind and sympathetic pioneers usually took up collections and gave these
unfortunates decent burials.
There certainly are many deaths that went unreported in the newspapers. In the early
years, there even seemed to be reluctance for the newspapers to report any deaths at all. Perhaps
only newspaper subscribers rated a mention in the newspaper’s columns. Maybe the editors
thought that reporting such bad news would give outsiders a negative impression of the area.
Still yet, it may be the small population of Ponca City at this early time made it possible for
everyone to know the news of their neighbors, hence there was no need of such notices. Services
may have also been announced from the pulpit on Sunday mornings so there they were not
mentioned in the newspapers later that week.
The first deaths reported in Kay County following the opening of the Cherokee Outlet
were published in the Arkansas City, Kansas, newspapers. These were fatalities that occurred
during the Cherokee Strip Run. Some were accidents. Some were murders brought on by fights
amongst the claimants disputing who reached the claims first. And, there were murders, which
were the result of the illegal settlers known as "sooners" driving off legal participants of the run.
These disputes were also the cause of murders for many years after the territory had been opened
for settlement.
For the reader who is a little squeamish, some of these death reports are very graphic,
even gruesome by today's journalistic standards. Injuries and wounds are described in every
gory aspect. Such reports were very popular with the readers of that era. Our ancestors’ desire
for such grisly detail may even now be reflected in that hidden part of our psyche, which we try
to deny, but is the reason tabloid journalism is so popular today.
A note to readers: most typographical errors and misspellings of common words have
been corrected, but spellings of proper names remain exactly as they appear in the newspaper.
There is an index at the end of this book to aid in searching for your family names. Often there
is confused spellings of names from one newspaper to another, or even within the same news
article. When possible, other sources have been consulted in an order to reconcile these spelling
differences. Sometimes a death announcement will mention the hope that an obituary will be
available for later publication. Often it never appeared or the next issue of the paper was lost.
An effort has been made to maintain certain writing style differences not used today.
Examples of these differences are the "run-on" sentences, which the authors used. Also the
failure to use upper case letters in such phrases such as Kay county, or Presbyterian church was
used in retyping these articles.
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In order to make it easier for the reader scanning the pages of this book, the name of a
deceased person appears highlighted in bold type within the text of the obituary. Names did not
appear in bold face type in the original columns of the newspapers. Also, the obits are listed in
chronological order except in a couple of cases when continuing investigations occurred.
To a historian, groups, movements, and nations represent history; to a genealogist, history
is the sum of all the individuals who have lived in these groups, movements and nations. The
stories appearing in this book demonstrate how people were involved in the history of the
Nineteenth and early Twentieth Century.
I hope that readers will find the names of lost relatives on these pages and record them in
their family genealogy for future generations to know. But please take time to read the entire
text, don’t just scan the pages looking for names of those ancestors. When viewed as a whole,
the accounts of these individuals’ lives will give an amazing viewpoint of the history of this era
and the extraordinary hardships of everyday life.
© Loyd M. Bishop March 2002
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from the Republican Traveler, 21 September 1893
The First Death. -- The first death among the
homeseekers in this vicinity took place at three o'clock
this morning. E. E. Eads, of Scottville, Ill fell while in
line at the booth on Thursday and never regained
consciousness. He was about forty years old. An uncle
of the dead man is here.
their wagon and broke it down in the race for life. Mr.
Osborn cut his horses loose and started to run for Duck
Creek. Mrs. Osborn started to run to, but got caught in
the tall grass and was burned to a crisp. After the fire
had swept over the husband and several men took the
body, wrapped it in blankets and buried it in a grave on
the bank Duck creek.
from the Republican Traveler, 21 September 1893
Judge Bonsall was at Ponca yesterday and reports
that a boy fell from his horse and broke his neck.
Frank Sloane, from near Udall, accidentally shot
himself Friday while getting ready for the strip. He
died yesterday from the effects of wound.
About nine miles down the Arkansas city trail in
that beautiful upland country, a bunch of had can be
seen, a corner stone, a flag with "this claim taken,' and
the dead steed.
from the Republican Traveler, 21 September 1893
An Explanation. -- Chilocco School, Sept 16,
Editor Traveler, The public will anxiously seek the
facts about the start from and about Chilocco reserve,
especially since one man from New Jersey was killed
and many others shot by the soldiers. The school
reserve is 4 1/2 miles long and 3 miles wide. About
8'oclock this morning permission was given near booth
No. 9 for homeseekers to go through on the Ponca Road
to the south side of Chilocco. Thousands of people
went down, others came be the school all orderly. At
the southwest the troops ordered all runners to keep
directly south and not go southwest as they had 3 miles
the start of those on the state line west of the school.
They said we will shoot anyone disobeying the
order. It is said to me by eyewitnesses this man killed
and several others shot at, went west of the line. It is
also said the men who came down from the state line
west of the school did not know of the advance position
taken by the people from the east side where the booth
was located. The line south of the school started on
time by signal. The other line west, broke loose from
the soldiers 6 minutes ahead of time, but could not be
stopped. Benjamin S. Coppock, Supt.
from the Republican Traveler, 21 September 1893
Settler Shot. -- There was one shooting south of
this city in the race. It occurred at the southwest corner
of Chilocco reservation. Some one in the crowd fired a
revolver and it was supposed to be the signal. An old
man by the name of James A. Hill, of New Jersey,
crossed the line on a dead run. The soldier on guard
shouted for him to halt, but Hill did not heed him. The
soldier took after him and after chasing him a short
distance fired at him. The old man kept on and the
soldier shot again and killed him. The body was taken
charge of by C. P. Duff and was brought to the city.
[According to a letter appearing in the October 19, 1893
issue of Arkansas City Republican Traveler, Mr. Hill
was from Keansburg, Monmouth County, New Jersey.]
from the Republican Traveler, 21 September 1893
We are told that the soldier's name who shot James
A. Hill Saturday is Asa Sousan. As yet he has not been
arrested and is in camp south of the city (Arkansas
City). The United States authorities should look after
this matter.
from the Republican Traveler, 21 September 1893
The body of Mr. Hill was taken to New Jersey this
morning by his nephew, Joseph W. Hawley. Most of
the particulars of the shooting we gave Saturday. The
bullet passed through Hill's head and killed him
instantly; on him was found over $500. Dr. DeLong
took over $450 from one pocket and Mr. Duff found
over $50 in another. The horse that Hill rode was a fine
one. He was to have made the race and Hawley was to
follow with provisions.
Many casualties are reported from the strip. The
most horrible, perhaps was the burning to death of Mrs.
Elizabeth Osborn of SaginawMo. She was 76 years of
age. She and her husband had made the run for a claim
on the Duck Creek bottoms when a prairie fire came
sweeping along behind them. Some man collided with
from the Republican Traveler, 21 September 1893
THE INDIGNATION MEETING. Held Last Evening
Largely Attended by Citizens. -- Pursuant to a call last
evening a large mass meeting of citizens was held at the
corner of fifth avenue and Summit street. People from
everywhere were in attendance and every one expressed
great indignation over the murder of John R. Hill. S.
Matlock was elected chairman of the meeting and Julius
Behrend secretary. Stirring speeches were made by Mr.
Stubbs of Garden City, Rev. DeLong of this city, Hon.
W. W. Apperson, of Fort Dodge, ex-consul to Vera
Cruz and others. At the conclusion of the addresses the
following resolutions were adopted:
Whereas, John R. Hill, of New Jersey, was on
Saturday, Sept. 16, 1893, shot to death by a soldier of
the U. S. army and
Whereas, the only offense committed by said John
R. Hill was the invasion of the Cherokee strip upon the
premature discharge of a gun by some unauthorized
person a few moments in advance of the time
designated in the presidents proclamation and
Whereas, the only punishment prescribed in said
proclamation for said offense was the forfeiture of his
right to obtain and acquire title to the land in said strip.
Therefore be it
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Resolved that we citizens of the United States, in
mass meeting assembled from all parts of the United
States demand of the United States authorities a
thorough and speedy investigation of the killing of the
said John R. Hill and the prompt and certain
punishment of the officers responsible therefore, and
Resolved, that a copy of these resolutions be sent
to Hon. Daniel Lamont, secretary of war, and Hon.
Hoke Smith, secretary of the interior, and be it further
Resolved that we invite the press of the country to
unite with us in the foregoing demand.
from the Republican Traveler, 21 September 1893
Yesterday an eighteen-year-old boy in the employ
of George Chadwell of Ponca was killed. The boy was
riding a horse when the animal ran away with him,
throwing him off and killing him instantly. Mr.
Chadwell sent here (Arkansas City, Kansas) for a coffin
and the body was buried at Ponca.
from the Republican Traveler, 28 September 1893
This morning Lieut. F. M. Caldwell who has
charge of the troops near his city called at the Traveler
office and showed us a telegram, a copy of which is
published below, which shows very clearly the
authority upon which he acted when he permitted
homeseekers to start for claims from the southern line
of Chilocco. The Traveler has claimed from the first
that he must have acted in conformity with the only
rational interpretation of the presidents proclamation
which provides for the use of a 100 foot strip around
the land to be opened to settlement. The dispatch above
referred to is as follows:
I am instructed by Commissioner Lamoreaux to
give notice that persons will be allowed to occupy 100
foot strip around Chilocco reservation. Signed Emmett
Womack, Special Agent.
from the Republican Traveler, 28 September 1893
Rev. DeLong, who has interested himself in the
affairs of John R. Hill, informs us that he and others are
moving to have an administrator appointed. A wagon,
two horses and a lot of furniture was left with a man by
the name of Horton to sell and it is claimed that he is
selling it too cheaply, consequently those who have
interested themselves in the matter want the court to
look after it.
from the Republican Traveler, 28 September 1893
It is reported that Hon. W. C. Perry, United States
district attorney, is here to make investigation in regard
to the killing of John R. Hill by the soldier on last
Saturday.
from the Republican Traveler, 28 September 1893
The Cherokee Strip Guide is not yet located at
Cross, but the extensive plant was unloaded there from
the cars and transported to its future home.
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from the Weekly Republican Traveler, 5 October 1893
Three Fingered Jack died yesterday morning at
Winfield. He was the man who was shot in the
gambling den at Perry Monday night. Jack's right name
is J. L. Patterson and has been regarded as a tough
character in this area. He has been here, and in the
territory, now Oklahoma, for several years. At one time
he was given a commission as deputy United States
marshal by Marshal Grimes to assist in hunting down
the Daltons. He was well acquainted with them
because of dealings in the whisky business. Marshal
Rarick has arrested Jack twice in his career. The first
time was for getting a woman to impersonate another
one who held a claim in Oklahoma and selling her
right. He was lodged in jail at Wichita but got out of
the scrape through a technicality of some kind. Jack
came here then and bootlegged whisky for a month and
then left for Oklahoma. Later he was arrested for
highway robbery but he escaped the law again. After
Jack was shot at Perry he was taken charge of by a man
by the name of Rushman and taken care of and buried
by him at Winfield yesterday. It appears that Rushman
is a gambler and was running a game in a place where
liquor was sold. Patterson was playing but was pretty
drunk. Rushman told him he had better quit playing as
he was too drunk to play. Patterson took out his
revolver and laid it on the table. Pretty soon two men
entered and walked up to the bar. Patterson directed an
insulting remark at one of them which was resented.
Patterson, seeming to realize that he had matched a
man, apologized, but the other would not accept it. He
threw his hand back to his hip pocket as if to draw a
gun. Rushman tried to pacify the men, saying that
everything was all right and there was no use to draw a
gun. The stranger threw his coat back, saying he had
no gun, and showing that he had none in his hip pocket.
In the meantime Patterson had his gun in his hand.
Suddenly the stranger put his hand in the breast pocket
of his coat and drew his gun. The two men, only four
feet apart, fired, Patterson getting first shot. Each fired
two shots. Patterson fell and the other man started to
go, but was carried away.
from the Weekly Republican Traveler, 5 October 1893
INVESTIGATING! Col. Edward M. Heyl, of the U. S.
Army, Sent Here by the War Department to Take
Testimony as to the Conduct of the Soldiers, and
Killing of John R. Hill on the 16th--The Soldiers Bribed
at the Registration Booth, Etc. -- Last night on the
delayed train from the east on the Santa Fe, Col.
Edward M. Heyl, of the U. S. Army arrived from
Washington and took quarters at the Fifth Avenue
Hotel.
The colonel was sent here by the war
department to take testimony in regard to the killing of
John R. Hill on the 16th and the deportment of soldiers
before, during and after the strip opening. "The colonel
remarked that the newspapers and Hon. Dennis Flynn
had created such a furor the department had to take
notice of the matter and make a full investigation.
At an early hour this morning the colonel was
directed to Julius Behrend's store where he is taking
testimony. Mr. Behrend has gathered all the facts and
names of witnesses in regard to the killing of Mr. Hill,
and is proving himself very useful to the colonel in
submitting them to him.
The first witness examined this morning was Chas.
Weir, of Kansas City. He stated he saw the killing and
it was about 12:06 noon, three miles from the state ling.
His story was about the same as has been published.
A. A. Abbott was the next witness and saw the
soldier shoot hill at the southwest corner of the
Chilocco school lands. He said that Hill was in the
lead.
L. D. Long testified that he made the run from the
state line one mile east of Chilocco. One soldier
refused to let him go to the south line of Chilocco.
Another said he could but the first would not let him go.
Rev. J. C. Seflons (? unreadable type) testified as
to the rowdyism of the soldiers and how one of them
drunk arrested him in the city and was taking him to
camp under cover of a revolver when through stratagem
he escaped.
William Brierley saw the shooting of Hill. He ran
from the state line west of Chilocco and so did Hill.
The crowd started on the run because of the firing of
two shots by the soldiers. They were thought to be the
signal. Hill was among the first.
Rev. D. D. DeLong gave his statement. He was at
the southwest corner of Chilocco and saw the killing. It
occurred at 12:00 noon by his watch, standard time. He
drove to where Hill lay on the ground and after a few
moments's conversation with others looked at Hill's
watch. It marked 12:13. There were thousands of
people ahead of Hill when shot. He then related as to
the disposition of the body and the property. He also
told of the drunken condition of the soldiers when in the
city.
G. W. Vaughan related how he had bribed the
soldiers at the booth in order to get registered without
delay. He was approached by a man when he was at
the rear of the line and told that he could get himself
registered for $1.50. He went with the man and gave
him $1. He was told that when he saw a soldier raise a
stick to go to the booth and give him a half a dollar. He
did so and passed in. In the tent he met another solder
who told him to get out. He slipped a half-dollar to him
but the soldier wanted more and he slipped another half
and was registered. Mr. Vaughn stated that William
Kilpatrick told him he had done the same thing and also
a man by the name of Sellers.
Harry Long of El Dorado, related his experience
with the soldiers. He was camped at the government
spring opening night when a drunken soldier came up,
pulled his gun on them and threatened to shoot their
brains out, called them s-n--of--b-----s and demanded
money for hay which was at the spring. He gave the
soldier 90 cents in payment for the hay. He also told of
the soldier shooting E. N. Smith's horse in the state.
Col. Heyl then went and called on William
Kilpatrick and secured his testimony.
He stated he was approached by a man unknown,
who told him he could get registered by tipping the
soldiers. The man charged $2and told him to give the
soldier 50 cents. He was registered but in the
excitement did not give the soldier his tip.
O. E. Kirtley, James Sutherland, G. W.
Cunningham and Peter Hollenbeck testify this
afternoon in regard to the conduct of the soldiers and
the shooting of Hill. It was in substance similar to the
above.
Col. Heyl will be here several days taking
testimony and he wants all who know anything in
regard to the killing of Hill ors the bad conduct of the
soldiers to call on him and give testimony. He will be
at Julius Behrend's store this evening and tomorrow at
the Fifth Avenue Hotel.
from the Weekly Republican Traveler, 12 October
1893 -- In Lieut. Caldwell's testimony before Col. Heyl
he stated he had orders from headquarters to shoot any
single individual who attempted to cross the line before
the signal on the 16th if he could stop him no other
way. If the crowd started he was to let it go. He also
showed his orders for letting them run from the south
line of Chilocco. [About 9 years later, the courts
upheld the claims of the pioneers who made the run
from this Chilocco boundary.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 16 November 1893
Fatal Shooting. -- during the tug of war contest
Thursday deputy sheriff Frank Tutcher of Blackwell
accidentally short and killed a colored man named
Hennesey Ramsey. A young fellow from Arkansas
City who goes by the name of Shorty, was wanting to
bet $50 that the east side would win, and the bet was
taken by some one, and the two gents stopped between
the crowd and the contestants. The deputy tried to keep
them back and a quarrel ensued. The officer told
Shorty he would place him under arrest for resisting an
officer, and pulled his gun out of his pocket. Bob
Burnett interfered to keep the deputy from shooting into
the crowd when the deputy discharged the gun at him
(Barnett) and hit the negro as above stated, who was
standing up in a dray wagon. The negro lived until 3
o'clock Friday morning.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 16 November 1893
Died by the wayside. -- Chas. F. Bontwell, a carpenter
of this city, died Saturday night from the effects of
alcoholic poisoning and exposure to the storm which
visited this section Saturday. He had been drinking
heavily during the day and late in the evening started
for his home. That was the last seen of him until his
body was found Sunday morning lying near the railroad
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crossing at the head of Grand avenue. The body was
removed to the Board of Trade building, where an
inquest was held, and the following verdict rendered by
the jury:
"That said C. F. Bontwell, now lying dead came to
his death during the night of Nov. 11, 1893, of
congestion, caused by the excessive use of alcoholic
drinks and hastened by cold and exposure while in a
state of intoxication on said night of Nov. 11, 1893. J. J.
McManus, Foreman, W. J. Allason, C. C. Monk, C. A.
Holmes, W. A Seagrave, J. H. Bowman.
The funeral took place Monday.
from the Cherokee Strip Guide, 25 January 1894
Death Claimed Her.--Mrs. D. W. Reynolds, living with
her husband and two children on the southeast quarter
of section 26 twp. 26 range 2 east died Wednesday
evening of this week, at 4:30 P.M. Her body was taken
to Arkansas City on Wednesday, for interment. The
deceased was 21 years of age, and leaves a husband and
two children to mourn her loss. Strange suspicions
cling around her death. About two months ago, the
whole family became violently ill, and the stock on the
farm became similarly affected.
The doctor
pronounced it poisoning. The supposition in the
neighborhood is that one of the contestants on the
claim, of which there is seven, put poison in the spring.,
Mrs. Reynolds lingered on from that time til (sic) her
untimely death. If poison was administered in this way
the world may never be any wiser.
from the Ponca City Courier, 8 February 1894
Died--Roscoe Simms, aged 15 years and 23 days, died
on Friday February 2, 1894, at the home of his parents,
Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Simms, in this city after an illness
of two weeks with typhoid fever. Funeral services were
conducted on Saturday by Rev. L. U. Warner, and the
remains were temporarily interred in the lots in the
southern part of the city.
Roscoe was an exemplary youth. His untimely
death was a shock to his friends, and a severe blow to
his parents, whose hopes were centered in their bright
young son. He took great interest in business and was
always to be found at his post of duty. The sympathy
of this community is extended Mr. and Mrs. Simms in
the loss which has come to their home.
from the Ponca City Courier, 22 February 1894
Died--Lewis Graves, aged 46 years, died at his home,
one and one-half miles west of Ponca City, on Thursday
last [February 15] and funeral services were conducted
on Friday at his home by Rev. L. U. Warner. Interment
took place in the school section southwest of the city.
He leaves a wife and four children, to whom the loss of
husband and father is irreparable. Sympathies of the
community are extended to them.
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from the Ponca City Courier, 22 March 1894
Died--May E. Keck, daughter of O. F. and D. D. Keck,
died at the home of her parents, in Ponca City on
Wednesday, March 21, 1894, aged 3 years and 22 days.
Funeral services were conducted at 2 o'clock p. m.
today at the school house and were largely attended by
sympathizing friends.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 23 March 1894
--The murder mystery of the shooting of Frank
Williams, near Newkirk, March 9 has been cleared by
two men, Ed McDonald and Albert Johnson being
arrested and taken to Newkirk, for trial. The murders
were traced from the house to a small streem (sic) were
they jumped and left a heavy impression in the dirt on
the opposite side. These footprints led to their capture.
They are also charged with numerous other strip
murders.
From the Ponca City Democrat, 30 March 1894
FATAL RAILROAD ACCIDENT.--Joe Hartman,
freight agent at the agency met death early Saturday
morning by being run over by a freight train. He was
not found until about 7 o'clock Saturday morning. He
was lying beside the track about a half mile north of the
city, and when found was in a dying condition. He was
taken to the depot and Agent Liddle and others
rendered him all the assistance possible, and secured
the services of able physician. But to no avail. The
unfortunate young man suffered untold agony. His left
leg was broken and mangled from his thigh down to his
foot, and the foot only being held by a few of the
muscles. The right foot and the left hand were mashed,
and the right hand almost severed from the arm. He
was taken to Arkansas City on the morning passenger,
but just at reaching that place and before he could be
taken from the baggage car, he died. The body was
taken to the undertakers where it was embalmed and
taken to Florence for burial. Joe Hartman was a brother
of G. J. Hartman, Superintendent of this division of the
Santa Fe, and (he) was a young man well liked by all
his acquaintances. The particulars of this sad affair are
not known, but the conclusion from evidence learned
from parties who saw him last is that he was killed
while attempting to board a moving freight train. Mr.
Carlton, our night policeman, was probably the last man
who saw Hartman before the accident. He says it was
about 4:15 Saturday morning when he met Hartman in
the restaurant of Henker and Holloway. He had a long
conversation with him, and Hartman said he was going
to the depot to catch the southbound freight and go to
the agency. When asked if Hartman was under the
influence of liquor, Mr. Carlton said, "No, he was as
sane as any man."
It is supposed that Hartman started for the depot
and that the train came along sooner than he expected
it, that he attempted to jump on and was thrown under
the wheels and killed. The effects of the wounds
showed that the whole train could not have passed over
his limbs. This accident happened about 4:30 Saturday
morning and the unfortunate victim lay there in the cold
for over three hours, suffering untold agony, and when
found was too weak to relate the story of how it
happened but simply say he had been struck by a train.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 6 April 1894
--Died--At his home in Ponca City, Friday, March 30th,
of consumption, Thomas Woodard, aged 58 years.
Mr. Woodard had been suffering from this dreaded
disease for over four years, and has been confined to his
bed since the opening of the strip. During his illness
here he was kindly cared for by members of the G. A.
R. post. He leaves a wife and three children to mourn
his loss, and they have the sincere sympathy of the
entire community. Funeral services were held at 2 p.
m. Saturday and the remains laid to rest in the cemetery
which is located south of the city.
from the Ponca City Courier, 12 April 1894
A Sad Death--Harley Stimpson, a four year old son of
Mr. and Mrs. Byron Stimpson, recently from Mound
City, Kansas, received burns Monday of so serious
character that death came soon after to relieve his awful
sufferings. He entered the wagon in which the family
was living at C. G. Broadhead's residence in the
southeastern part of the city, and was playing near the
stove in which there was fire, when his garments caught
fire. He then ran out into the air where the strong wind
fanned the flames until they could not be extinguished,
and all his garments were all burned off his little body,
charring his flesh fearfully. The flames entered his
nostrils and mouth and he was literally roasted alive.
All that could be done to alleviate his awful sufferings
was but to no avail.
Funeral services were held at Mr. Broadhead's
home on Tuesday at 3 o'clock p. m., and interment of
the remains was made in the cemetery southwest of the
city.
from the Ponca City Courier, 21 June 1894
Mortuary.--Mrs. Mary Nelson, wife of Swan N.
Nelson, died at her home in this city, Monday, June 18,
1895, aged 24 years.
This morning the remains were taken to Wahoo,
Nebraska, the home of her parents for interment in the
family cemetery.
Mrs. Nelson was an active member of the Ladies
Aid Society, and the lodge attended the last rites here in
a body. The I. O. O. F, of which order Mr. Nelson is an
honored member attend in regalia and Rev. Harper
conducted the sad funeral ceremonies. The choir sang
beautiful and appropriate selections.
After the
conclusion of the services, the remains were followed
to the train by the entire assemblage of friends.
The deceased was a consistent member of the
Lutheran church and was one of the most respected
ladies of the city. The deeds of kindness she was over
ready to do won her general admiration for her noble
qualities. The sorrowing husband has the sympathy of
the community.
from the Ponca City Courier, 21 June 1894
MONDAY--Mrs. S. N. Nelson died today after a long
and painful illness, the remains will be taken to Wahoo,
Nebraska, for interment in the family cemetery. The
sorrowing family have the sincerest sympathy of many
friends.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 29 June 1894.
SUICIDE.--Wednesday morning, of this week Bert
Jones, who has been employed as cook at the St. James
hotel, was found dead in his bed.
Acquaintance of the young man say that he had
intimated on several different occasions that he was not
going to live long. He was addicted to the use of
morphine, and it is thought by some that he was more
or less bordering on insanity. In one of his pockets was
found a note which stated that he was being killed by a
slow poison administered by a young lady
acquaintance.
A coroner's jury was impaneled and held an
inquest. Their verdict was that the deceased came to
his death by an overdose of morphine or some narcotic.
Jones was seen alive at 12 o'clock Tuesday night
and a young man, who has been sleeping with him, did
not know of his death until he got up in the morning. A
telegram was sent to the father of the deceased, who
lives in Utah.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 13 July 1894.
--Died--In Ponca City, Wednesday evening, at the Elite
hotel, Elijah Murphy, of Peritonitis. The deceased had
been in the Osage country working for George
Chadwell, and had been sick about four weeks. He was
brought to the city and an operation performed for relief
but to no avail, as one half of his bowels were bound
down by adhesions and covered with pus. The remains
were buried in the cemetery in section 33 southeast of
the city on Thursday forenoon. He was a single man,
his relatives residing in Missouri.
from the Ponca City Democrat, July 27, 1894
RAILROAD ACCIDENT. Sunday morning the dead
body of Charley Orcutt was found on the railroad
tracts about half way between here and Cross. The
unfortunate man was undoubtedly the victim of a
railroad accident. From the bruises on his head and
arms it was a natural supposition that he had been
sitting on one of the rails when the train came along and
ran over him.
Charley Orcutt was a man over 30 years of age,
and had been formerly in the employ of the Santa Fe
company as section boss. He was single man, and his
parents resided in one of the New England states. The
5
deceased was in Ponca City Saturday and was drinking
heavily. He remained here until about 11 p. m. when he
started to Cross. He went to Cross about 1 o'clock
Sunday morning he was seen by the night policeman of
that place, to start south. The police followed him as
far as the first whistling post when he lost sight of him
and returned home.
When the body was discovered it was taken to the
proper authorities and brought to Ponca City where a
coroner's jury was impaneled. The jury brought in a
verdict of accidental death by being run over by a train
of moving cars.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 31 August 1894
COWBOY KILLED. Ike Baker Shot through the Heart
by Marshal Nolan.
Yesterday afternoon about 5 o'clock several sun
shots were heard in the southwest part of the city near
the railroad. A short time afterward Deputy Marshall
Carlton came up town in a buggy, bringing with him
the lifeless body of Ike Baker, a cowboy in the employ
of Peter Robinson and Frank Richardson, Texas
cattlemen, who have been shipping their cattle from
Ponca agency.
The story of the shooting, so far as we have been
able to learn is about as follows:
Baker and his partner, "Tom" who is the cook at
the cowboy's ranch in the Bar L pasture in the Ponca
reservation came to town Tuesday and at night Marshal
Nolan arrested Baker for carrying concealed weapons.
Baker wanted to put up money for his appearance
which Nolan refused. Baker was put in jail and paid his
fine the next morning. Yesterday Baker and his partner
were in town again, and had mounted their horses and
started for home. After leaving Grand avenue two
blocks south, they began firing off their revolvers.
Marshals Nolan and Charlton got in a buggy and started
after them. It is difficult to find out just how the
shooting occurred as Marshal Charlton refuses to give
any information until placed on the witness stand, and
Baker's partner rode on to camp. However some say
Baker resisted arrest and fired at the officers when
Nolan drew his gun and shot Baker, the ball entering
the back just above the kidneys and coming out at the
lower extremity of the heart causing almost instant
death.
Nolan gave himself up to Undersheriff Crouse who
took him to the county seat. The dead man was taken
to the furniture store of Hentzen and Lilly where a
coroner's jury will hold an inquest.
Ike Baker, the unfortunate man who was killed, has
five children living in Kimball county, Texas, and his
oldest boy is at the camp. His wife has been dead
several years.
Telegrams have been sent to his children and his
brother, who are expected to arrive today and take
charge of the remains.
There is much talk on the streets about the affair,
6
and it is feared by some that an attempt will be made by
the cowboys to mob Nolan. The inquest will probably
end the matter.
from the Ponca City Courier, 6 September 1894
The Killing of Isaac W. Baker.--One of the most
regrettable affairs this city has ever been the scene of,
occurred Thursday evening last at about 5 o’clock when
Marshal Nolan and Isaac W. Baker, a cowboy had an
encounter in which Baker was shot dead by Nolan. The
circumstances which led to the killing are regrettable.
It seems that a bad woman had given information on
Tuesday night, August 28, which was imparted to
Nolan, that Baker was carrying concealed on his person
a deadly weapon, contrary to city ordinance, and that of
Oklahoma Territory. He was arrested and placed in jail
till morning when he was fined $5.00 and costs. Baker
claimed that he offered to advance his bond in cash for
appearance next day as he was very averse to going to
jail, but was refused. His friends say he was not drunk
or disorderly at the time of the arrest. That he was
carrying weapons contrary to law, no one denies, and
consequently he was amenable to the law.
Baker was very much incensed at what he
considered a personal effront in on allowing him to give
bail for appearance and time only seemed to make him
more bitter. Thursday he came to town for trouble,
Nolan's friends say, and he got it. Same say he made
threats against Nolan's life, but the reporter has found
no one who heard them. At any rate, when he left
Grand avenue going south with a companion familiarly
called "Tom" he began shooting his revolver in the air
with the seeming intention of attracting the attention of
the officers. Nolan heard the rapid firing and got into a
phaeton with Constable Charlton who was returning
from Cross, and drove south on first street to arrest the
offenders. The horsemen had reached the south line of
town before the officers neared them and they
continued riding slowly on till some distance below the
city, when the officers arrived within about fifty yards
of the two men. Nolan then got out of the phaeton and
commanded them to surrender.
Here comes a
difference of opinion. One sides witnesses say Baker
fired his revolver into the air without taking aim, and
the other says he took deliberate aim and fired five
shots point blank at Nolan, who then returned the fire
almost simultaneously, shooting three times, one shot
of which entered Baker's back, penetrating the heart,
another striking in the shoulder and ranging down,
either one of which would prove fatal, the other missing
its mark. The other horseman put spurs to his horse and
rode rapidly away.
The body of Baker was brought to town and laid in
Hentzen and Lilly's undertaking rooms, where the
inquest was held the following day.
Nolan gave himself up to under sheriff Crouse who
took him to Newkirk to await the court of the law.
Their testimony returned the following verdict.
the Inquest.--An Inquisition holden (sic) at New Ponca
in K county, on the 31st day of August A. D. 1894,
before me, J. D. Biggs, Coroner of said county, on the
body of I. W. Baker, there lying dead, by the jurors
whose name are hereunto subscribed.
The said jurors upon their oath do say I. W. Baker
came to his death by gunshot wound in the hands of
Marshal Watson Nolan, in self defense, while in
performing his duties as an officer of the law.
In testimony whereof the said jurors have hereunto
sat their hands, the day and year aforesaid. Henry
Sherman, John H. Koller, Edward Oxford, G. T. Lee, J.
W. Wickett, C. H. St. Clair.
from the Oklahoma State Guide, 13 September 1894
(published in Cross, Oklahoma)
Died.--Clara Grove, aged six years, at Cross, on
Tuesday evening, September 11, 1894. The deceased
was sick some time ago with pneumonia and it was
thought that she ad recovered, but was taken with a
relapse and died very suddenly. Her parents came here
from Enid about three months ago. They were formerly
from Ellsworth county, Kansas.
from the Ponca City Courier, 27 September 1894
Untimely Death.--A young life is ended! Just when she
had blossomed into the full radiance of matured
womanhood Mrs. Eli Dale was called from earth to life
eternal. Called from a young and devoted husband,
from friends and the dear one of home.
It was only a few short months since we chronicled
the celebration of the formation of those martial (sic)
ties which were to last while life remained and now
they are severed by the inexorable decree of death. The
event is another exemplification that life is a fleeting
shadow. Today were are living in sorrow; yesterday all
was joy and hope, and the future was radiant. We are
again reminded that in the midst of life we are in death.
Words which are meant for sympathy sound like
empty mockery, and yet, who is not ready to soothe the
unutterable pangs of sorrow which have come to the
young husband.
Kind hands have lent assistance during the dark
hours of death, and especially attentive has been the I.
O. O. F., of which Mr. Dale was a member. The
remains were followed to the train by the members of
the lodge, last evening, and will be accompanied to her
former home at Lincoln, Kansas by the bereaved
husband and parents. Interment will take place there.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 September 1894
OBITUARY. Died--At her home in Ponca City,
Wednesday, September 25, 1894, Mrs. Ivy Myrtle
Dale, wife of Eli Dale, aged 21 years and 2 months.
Mrs. Dale was the daughter of Mrs. S. E. Graham of
Lincoln, Kansas, She was born in Harrisonville, Mo.,
July 31, 1878. Her parents moved to Kansas in 1874
(sic). She became a member of the Christian church of
Lincoln, Kansas in 1893, and was married to Eli Dale
April 14, 1894, and has resided in Ponca City since.
About four weeks ago Mrs. Dale was taken sick
with an attack of fever. She grew better a week after,
and hopes were entertained by the fond husband of a
speedy recovery. Later she gradually became worse
and one week ago, was given up by the doctors. Her
mother was sent for and from that time until death
claimed her, all was done that loving hands could do to
make her rest easy.
The funeral services were held at the residence on
South First street at 5 o'clock Wednesday evening,
conducted by Revs. A. J. McGillivary and L. U.
Warner. The funeral was attended by the I. O. O. F.
lodge and the W. R. C., of which deceased was a
member, and a large concourse of neighbors and friends
of the family. The funeral services over, the remains
were taken to the depot. The solemn procession was
headed by the Ponca City cornet band, which played a
funeral dirge.
The remains, accompanied by the sorrowing
mother and grief stricken husband, was taken to
Lincoln, Kansas for interment.
In the death of Mrs. Dale the husband loses a kind,
loving and faithful wife, the mother, sisters and brothers
on of their dearest companions, while Ponca City
mourns the loss of one of its best ladies. The Democrat
extends its sincere sympathy to the heart broken
husband and other members of the family.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 2 November 1894
OBITUARY. --Leo M. Wank of Cross died of typhoid
fever at his mother's residence in Cross last Friday.
The funeral was held at the Congregational church,
Saturday at 3:30 p. m. Rev L. U. Warner of Ponca
City, conducted the funeral services. The church was
filled with the friends of the family. The school
children came in a body to the church and followed
their young friend to his last resting place.
Leo was fourteen years of age and a great comfort
to his widowed mother, who had built great hopes on
him. The people of Ponca extend their sympathy to the
bereaved mother in her trouble.
from the Ponca City Courier, 6 December 1894
KILLED HIS MAN. RILEY SWEENY SHOOTS
AND KILLS THE SEDUCER OF HIS WIFE. Three
fingered Jack, a noted former Ponca City man dies with
His Boots On.
Three Fingered Jack, formerly a hack driver and
proprietor of the elite restaurant in this city was shot
and killed seven miles north of Gray Horse Monday
morning by Riley Sweeney. Sweeney was arrested and
taken to Pawhuska where it is reported he
unsuccessfully attempted suicide.
The difficulty arose over Jack Femis--as his real
name is--attentions to Sweeney's wife. Femis was a
rough and desperate character, and it is not to be
7
wondered at that he met death in the manner he did. He
was in the party who shot up the town here last fall. He
was reckless at all times, and especially when he was in
liquor. Sweeney is a man who has borne a good
reputation, and those who know him here can but think
he had just provocation before he would take such
means of self protection.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 7 December 1894
THREE FINGERED JACK DEAD. Jack Femis, or
"Three fingered Jack," as he was more familiarly know
to the people of Ponca City, was shot and instantly
killed Monday night, at the residence of Riley Sweeney,
on Salt creek over in the Osage country. Sweeney is
the man who did the shooting.
The particulars of the affair, as told by an eye
witness, is in substance about as follows:
Some time ago Sweeney and his wife became
mixed up in domestic troubles which caused a
separation. Sweeney's wife went to her brothers, Mr.
Malone, to reside. Sunday night Sweeney took Three
Fingered Jack home with him and he stayed all night.
Monday morning Sweeney went over to Malones to get
his wife and take her to Gray Horse to settle up the
family estate. He borrowed Malone's Winchester and
in company with his wife, returned home, Three
fingered Jack and two or three other fellows were
sitting in front of the fire conversing when Sweeney
entered with the gun in his hand. Raising his
Winchester to his shoulder, he said to jack, "You are
the cause of my wife and I separating and I will kill
you," to which Jack replied, "Let her go," and he fired,
the ball entering the left shoulder and ranging
downward through the heart. Jack raised up; and fell
forward on his face, dead.
Sweeney surrendered to the officers and was taken
to Gray Horse and from there to Osage.
A telegram was sent to Jack's brother who resides
at Guthrie to make inquiry regarding what to do with
the remains.
Three Fingered Jack was quite a conspicuous
figure in Ponca City shortly after the opening of the
strip to settlement, and was in town just a few days
previous to the shooting.
from the Ponca City Courier, 13 December 1894
Fell dead.--A. McArthur, who has resided here for a
year or so, [unreadable text] night while going to his
home from the train. He had been to Mulvane [Kansas]
to secure treatment for paralysis.
The Odd Fellows took charge of the remains and
they were interred this afternoon after impressive
ceremonies in the burial ground southwest of the city.
from the Ponca City Courier, 13 December 1894
Resolutions. R. B. Hayes W. R. C. No. 9, Ponca City O.
T. Whereas, Again the reaper, death, has entered the
home of one of our member, and has called to his last
8
rest B. M. Fox, the father of our sister Anna Belford.
Be it therefore Resolved by R. B. Hays Corps that we
extend to her our sincere and heartfelt sympathy in her
sad bereavement.
from the Ponca City Courier, 14 March 1895
A Terrible Tragedy--Another terrible tragedy is
recorded as the out-come of a controversy over a Kay
county claim.
Friday D. J. Cowan, a claimant six miles east of
Newkirk had a controversy over a claim with Pet and
Will Coleman, two brothers, which resulted in the death
of Will Coleman, aged 15 years, and probably the
mortal wounding of Pet Coleman aged 23 years.
Cowan was also cut about the head by a blow from a
rock in the hands of one of the boys. The coroner's jury
did not exonerate Cowan, and he will probably have to
stand trial for murder. Trouble had occurred before
over the claim and at one time Cowan was quite
severely beaten by the brothers. The two boys are
single men, but Cowan has a family.
from the Oklahoma State Guide, Newkirk, Oklahoma,
Thursday, March 14, 1895
ANOTHER TRAGEDY! Occurs Six Miles East of
Newkirk, and is, AS USUAL, OVER A CLAIM. Will
Coleman Killed Instantly and His Brother, Pet,
Dangerously Wounded.
Our Peaceful community was startled Friday
morning last by the report brought in that a homicide
had been committed about six miles southeast of town
during a dispute over the right of cultivating a small
tract of land near the river. The participants and those
present at the time were: Cyrus Cowan, the accused,
Jacob May and son, Curtis, Pet and Willie Coleman, the
two latter being the victims of Cowan's pistol. Cowan's
skull was also fractured by a stone thrown by one of the
parties during the affray. After the shooting he came to
town and gave himself up to the sheriff.
A jury was immediately impaneled by Acting
Coroner Pardoe, consisting of R. G. Bracken, W. W.
Bright, F. Briscoe, S. Rowland, E. F. Korns and L. M.
Dolde and taken to the scene of the shooting, where
they found the body of Willie Coleman, a boy about
fourteen years of age, lying face downward, in the mud
near the water's edge, cold and stiff in death from the
effects of a wound made by a bullet fired from a pistol,
which entered the body in the small of the back about
five inches to the left side of the spine and ranged
upward in the direction of the right breast. The other
victim, Pety Coleman, an elder brother had been
removed from the scene to his father's house, suffering
with two dangerous wounds, one in the left breast, and
the other in the thigh. After viewing the body and
hearing the testimony submitted, the jury returned to
Newkirk, and rendered a verdict, that deceased came to
his death by a short fired from a pistol held in the hands
of one Cyrus Cowan.
Jacob May and son were accessories to the crime.
All of the accused waived the preliminary examination
and were committed to jail by Judge Brown, to await
the action of the grand jury. At first it was thought that
Pet Coleman was fatally wounded but later reports are
to the effect that he is in a fair way to recover.
from the Ponca City Courier, 13 June 1895
Resolutions--At the regular session of W. R. C. June
11, 1895, the W. R. C. June 11, 1895 the following
resolutions were adopted:
Whereas, in God's wisdom, our sister J. J.
Davisson mourns the death of a much loved son.
Therefore be it
Resolved, that H. B. Hayes Corps extend to our
sister and her family our heart felt sympathy in the sad
hour of her affliction.
Resolved, that a copy of these resolutions be placed
upon the records and a copy sent to the family; also to
each of the Ponca City papers for publication-Committee.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 20 June 1895
Found Drowned. Mr. H. Subilla, who lives on a claim
near Cross, in the strip, started for Oklahoma City,
driving through with a horse and cart, and yesterday
about noon, was just north of Laurie, he mistook the
road and drove in a pond, and he and his horse were
drowned. Shortly after, his body was discovered and
taken to Guthrie, and prepared for burial at Spengel's.
On the dead man's person was found $103.75 and a
watch. He was about 40 years of age, and owns
property at Edmond and Oklahoma City.
Mr. Subilia's body was brought here yesterday,
accompanied by his wife, whom he married only six
months ago, and Mr. G. W. Batchelder, and will be
buried in Fairlawn today. He formerly kept a restaurant
in this city. Oklahoman.
from the Ponca City Courier, 18 July 1895
Died--Mrs. M. L. Barber, wife of our townsman, died
at her home in this city on Tuesday, July 16, 1895, after
a severe illness of several days duration. She was a
good wife, a kind mother and a generous friend. Her
life has been a noble one and the good deeds she has
done on earth will surely win her the welcome "Well
done my good and faithful servant, enter thou into the
joy of thy reward."
Burial took place yesterday. The funeral was
largely attended, and services were conducted by the
Revs. McGillivray and Harper.
from the Ponca City Courier, 25 July 1895 [copy
image is very faint and film is badly scratched.]
J. W. Salmon Drowned--Sunday evening Owen
Simpson brought in the corpse of J. W. Salmon, a
young man who has been working for Capt. Van
Sickler to be cared for by Undertaker Thomas until his
relatives at Lawrence, Kansas could be heard from.
From Mr. Simpson the reporter heard that Mr. Salmon
was swimming horses in a pond on the Men-tan-kah
kah-wah-shenka creek in company with Frank and
Harry Braden and Oscar and Millard Simpson about
two o'clock Sunday afternoon when the deceased in
some manner became strangled by the water. He was a
good swimmer, and while great efforts [unreadable
words] his strength gave out. The Simpson boys swam
to his rescue and succeeded in bringing him within ten
feet of land when they were overcome by their
exertions and despite all they could do, Salmon sank to
the bottom about ten feet.
That evening by others assistance, Mr. Simpson
succeeded in recovering the body which they brought to
town to prepare for burial.
The dead boy was about [unreadable] years old and
was possessed of a good reputation and a liberal
education. His death will be a sad blow to his aged
parents back in Kentucky.
Mr. Thomas in response to a telegram from
relatives, accompanied the body to Dexter, Kansas on
Tuesday morning where burial was to take place.
from the Ponca City Courier, 26 September 1895
Mrs. Barrett Dead. The sad news was circulated this
morning that Mrs. Elizabeth A. Barrett wife of John
H. Barrett, died last night after an illness of three weeks
duration. She was a most estimable lady and the home
in which she was been a loved wife and devoted mother
will feel past the expression of words, the loss which
her death is to them. She was 55 years of; age, was
born in Poesy county, Ind., was married in 1863 to J. H.
Barrett.
She was a member of Fall River, Kan, Rebecca Lodge,
No. 24. The funeral will take place tomorrow at the
farm two miles east of the city.
from the Ponca City Courier, 3 October 1895
--Mrs. J. N. Barrett was buried at Arkansas City
instead of on the home farm as at first intended.
from the Ponca City Courier, 3 October 1895
--John E. and Willie Chandler sons of Mr. and Mrs.
Chandler died at their home one mile west of Tonkawa,
September 28, 1894 of diphtheria. The former was
aged 2 years and the latter 7 years. They were buried at
Blackwell the next day.
from the Ponca City Courier, 21 November 1895
The home of Mr. and Mrs. D. W. Cunning was
entered by death on Monday night and Jay, their bright
little son aged about eight years was taken away to the
spirit land. He had been suffering only a short time and
hopes were entertained that he would recover, but it
was not to be so. The fond parents were called on to
give up their treasure to the remorseless grave.
Rev. McGillivary conducted the funeral ceremony
9
and on Tuesday Jay was buried in the eastern part of the
city. Later, his remains will be taken to Marceline,
Missouri for burial.
The sincerest sympathy of this community is
extended to those whose hearts are so sorely afflicted.
from the Ponca City Courier, 12 December 1895
At the ripe old age of eighty five years, Humphrey
(De)Roberts of Cross died on Tuesday night at 12:05
of the infirmities of age. He was surrounded by his
family who have comforted his declining years with the
respect and veneration due him. He leaves an ages
wife, one son, C. DeRoberts of this city, two daughters,
Mrs. J. T. Harvey of Cross and Mrs. J. Chenoweth of
Elliott, Iowa, to mourn the death of a loving and true
father. Mrs. C. F. Calkins of this city is his grand
daughter.
The deceased was born at Utica New York,
September 10, 1810. Sixty years ago he was joined in
the holy bonds of matrimony to the wife who mourns
his death. In 1837 he moved to Iowa, then and Indian
reservation and has resided there till a year ago in
September when he moved to Cross to be near his
children.
The body was taken to Red Oak, Iowa last evening
accompanied by Mr. C. DeRoberts.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 December 1895
Died--At his home in Cross, Tuesday night at 12
o'clock at the ripe old age of 85 years, Humphrey
DeRoberts, father of our fellow townsman C.
DeRoberts. The remains were taken to his old home at
Red Oak Iowa for Interment.
The deceased had been sick about three weeks, and
remained conscious until the last. He leaves a wife, a
don, C. De Roberts and two daughters, Mrs. J. F.
Harvey of Cross and Mrs. J. Chenoweth of Elliott,
Iowa, and several grandchildren to mourn his loss. This
is a very sad affliction to his wife who has shared all of
his sorrows and his happiness for the past sixty years
and over.
Humphrey DeRoberts, or Grandpa DeRoberts as he
was more familiarly known, was born at Utica, N. Y.
September 10, 1810 and moved to Iowa just after the
purchase of that state from the Sac and Fox Indians,
which was over fifty years ago; he settled at Red Oak,
Iowa where he resided until a little over a year ago,
when he came to Cross to be near his two children.
Grandpa DeRoberts was well liked by all who knew
him and the bereaved relatives have the heartfelt
sympathy of the entire community.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 December 1895
--The Cedar Falls Iowa, Daily Globe contains the
following death notice of a former Ponca City young
lady: Mrs. May Ulrich died at the home of her parents
10
at 610 west 6th street last night at 8 o'clock. The
deceased was born in the Black Hawk county, twentynine years ago. Five years ago that dreaded disease,
consumption attacked her health and from which she
died. The funeral services will occur at Janesville next
Sunday, interment to be made in the cemetery at that
place. The death of this loved one has cast a gloom of
sorrow over the household where her smiles and gentle
manners had added much to the happiness of those
around her. She was a faithful and consistent member
of the M. E. church of this city by letter.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 December 1895
Death of J. C. Thomas. J. C. Thomas died at his
residence in this city last Friday morning at 8 o'clock.
The cause of death was a complication of catarrh and
rheumatism disease which he contracted when in the
army.
The funeral was held at the family residence
Saturday and the remains taken to Arkansas City and
buried in the Parker cemetery Sunday, the Arkansas
City G. A. R. Post conducting the service.
The deceased would have been 59 years of age the
22nd of this month. He was born in Wood county,
Ohio, near Toledo. He left Ohio in March, 1877 and
went to Kansas where he resided until the opening of
the Cherokee strip. He enlisted in the army at the
beginning of the war and serviced until the close; was
in Battery G, 21st Ohio light artillery.
A wife and four children are left to mourn his loss.
The bereaved ones have the sympathy of all.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 December 1895
Card of Thanks. To the neighbors and friends and
members of the G. A. R. and W. R. C. who so kindly
assisted us during our late bereavement we desire to
offer our sincere and heartfelt thanks. While our loss
was great yet your kind words and deeds helped us to
bear the burden and we will ever remember you all with
grateful heart. W. A. Thomas.
from the Ponca City Courier, 5 March 1896
Died--on the morning of February 29, D. G. Saul aged
72 years.
Mr. Saul was taken sick some three weeks ago, but
with that will which seems to have charactized (sic) his
every action, would not give up and attended to his
business as usual until a few days ago when he came to
Ponca City on business and was taken so ill as to be
unable to return.
He was practically unknown here, but after his
condition was known he was not long in securing
friends and care. S. S. Butler gave up his room for the
sick man's use and nursed him as a brother to the final
end, while Fred Balduff communicated with his
relatives in (Kingman) Arizona and with others did
what he could to alleviate his suffering but, it was to
late. That dread disease, pneumonia, brought on
doubtless by exposure was so firmly fixed on his aged
frame that no earthly power could save him and through
everything possible was done and his nursing and
attention was of the best, he breathed his last just as the
morning sun reddened the sky Saturday morning.
Deceased was a veteran of the Mexican War and
marched with the triumph (sic) forces of Gen. Scott into
the capitol of Mexico when that country was finally
conquered, and during his last hours displayed the same
grand courage and fortitude when battling with death
that he did while fighting under the stars and stripes on
the fields of Cerro Gordo and Monterey.
The funeral took place Sunday under the auspices
of the G. A. R. and W. R. C. his body being placed in a
metal casket and buried temporarily here from where it
will be removed to the family cemetery near his old
home in Illinois.
from the Ponca City Democrat, March 5, 1896
Card of thanks--In behalf of Mr. and Mrs. O. B. Ausden
(sic), of Kingman Arizona, I wish to tender thanks to
the friends who cared for their father D. G. Saul during
his late illness and burial and trust that the same
courtesy may be extended them during their last hours.
F. Balduff.
from the Ponca City Courier, March 18, 1896
An old soldier gone--D. G. Saul, a veteran of the
Mexican war, who has been quite sick here for couple
of weeks under the care of sympathetic comrades, died
Saturday night and was buried Sunday. Rev. Bibb
preached the sermon in a touching and impressive
manner. Quite a number of acquaintances followed the
remains to the grave in the eastern part of the city.
He had relatives in Arizona who sent money to pay
expenses, and who will later take his body to their
family burial lot. F. Balduff looked after the burial
details at their request.
from the Ponca City Courier, 2 April 1896
Died--Lulu, the five weeks old child of Mr. Walders,
living in the Osage, died Tuesday and was buried
yesterday in the Odd Fellow Cemetery. Rev. Dowdy
preached the funeral sermon and the remains were
followed to the grave by a large cortege of friends of
the family.
from the Ponca City Courier, 25 May 1896
A Little One Gone.--Lottie May the little daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Morton died Wednesday
afternoon June 24, aged 6 months and 20 days. The
funeral services were held at Arkansas City on
Thursday, Rev W. G. Oglevee officiating. During the
long days of suffering that ended the baby's brief pure
earthly life, she was so sweet and patient that many an
older heart was taught a lesson never to be forgotten.
All hearts go out in sympathy to the lonely father and
mother in their sorrow.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 June 1896
A Sad Death. John Bell living near Osage City had a
sad accident in his family last Saturday morning. His
little eight year old boy went out to the pasture to bring
up the horses and caught a pony that had a lariat rope
on it. He wrapped the rope up, got on the pony and tied
the rope around his body and started. The pony
stumbled and the boy fell off. The pony took fright and
ran, dragging the boy about one hundred yards and
bruised him so badly that death followed in a few
minutes. When the little fellow started for the horses,
the mules had just came in and he said to his father:
"Papa, if the horses were as good about coming up as
the mules we wouldn't have much trouble with them,"
and then went on to his fatal ride.
The father is grief stricken over the sad fate of his
little son. About two years ago Mr. Bell lost his wife
and shortly after her death his other son, the only one
now, was almost scalded to death. So, his troubles have
not come alone.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 June 1896
"Through her attorneys Troup & Brown, Mrs.
Anna Penn, of Ponca City has filed suit against Judge J.
V. Beekman to receive $2000 which she claims that he
had and will not give it up to her. Mrs. Penn formerly
lived in this city and she and her husband ran the D. M.
& A. house. About the time the strip opened her
husband, Robert Mills, was killed in the Santa Fe yards
in jumping from a moving train. His life was insured
for $2000 in the A. O. U. W. lodge. Mrs. Mills
received the money and claims that she turned it over to
Judge Beekman to loan and that since she has never
been able to get a cent from him. Some time ago she
married Gail Penn and lived with him until recently
when they separated. She claims also that her husband
only married her because it was part of the "deal to
defraud her of her money." The Judge says in regard to
the matter "I owe Mrs. Penn nothing, I hold an order
which she gave to her husband for all the money I ever
had belonging to her, and I hold his receipt for the
same. That is all I care to say at this time.
A. C. Traveler.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 June 1896
Died--Sunday morning, June 21st, 1896, of blood
poisoning, Maud M. Corzine, wife of Frank Corzine,
aged 22 years, six months and 14 days.
The funeral services were held at the Presbyterian
church Tuesday, June 23, conducted by Rev. W. G.
Oglevee, and the remains laid to rest in the I. O. O. F.
cemetery.
The deceased was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. G.
Raffety of this city. She was born in Chrissman,
Illinois December 7, 1873, and moved to Wichita,
Kansas in 1888 with her parents. She was married to
Frank Corzine May 6, 1891, where they lived until the
11
opening of the strip, when Mr. Corzine located on a
claim north of Newkirk.
The death of Mrs. Corzine was very sudden, she
having taken sick Thursday of last week. She told her
husband when she was first taken ill that she was going
to die. The funereal was one of the saddest affairs in
the city's history, and the church was crowded with
sorrowing friends and relatives. The Knights and
Ladies of Security of which she was a member attended
the services in a body.
The deceased leaves a father and mother, three
sisters, a husband and two little motherless boys aged
12 and 4 to mourn her loss. The mother is almost
prostrated with grief and is under the physicians care
and no words of sympathy can console the heart broken
husband who has had his pleasant home broken up. Mr.
Corzine was a devoted and loving wife and mother, and
the Democrat and friends of the family extend to the
sorrowing relatives sincere sympathy in this the saddest
hour of their affliction.
from the Ponca City Courier, 25 June 1896
Maude M. Corzine, wife of Frank B. Corzine died at
her home in this city, Sunday morning at 8 o'clock,
aged 22 years 6 months and 14 days.
Funeral services conducted by Rev. W. G. Oglevee
were held at the Presbyterian church Tuesday, June 23,
at 10:30 and the remains were interred in the Odd
Fellows cemetery.
The deceased was born at Christman, Illinois,
December 7, 1873. She was united in Marriage to
Frank B. Corzine, May 6, 1891. She was the daughter
of Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Raffety of this city. Her husband
and two young children survive her, who will miss the
ministrations of a kind and loving wife and affectionate
and careful mother.
Death at any time is a terrible visitant which must
come to all; but it is not so frightful when it comes to
one who has rounded out the allotted years of life and
accomplished all the purposes and duties of life. When
it comes to one just in the bloom of a young and fruitful
life, it is clothed in its most hideous garb. and yet,
there are lessons which are taught those who are left
behind, which bear good fruit; Lessons which prove
the small and insecure title which we possess to the life
that we call our own, which prove the love of friends
and companions, and unite all in one common bond of
sympathy and love for humanity.
W. O. Raffety and wife of El Dorado, Kansas, and
A. R. Corzine of Assumption, Illinois, were present at
the last sad rites.
from the Ponca City Courier, 2 July, 1896
Died--Joseph Lauren Cottingham, infant son of Mr.
and Mrs. Joseph Cottingham, died at the home of his
parents in this city on Friday morning after only a few
hours illness with cholera infantum, aged four months.
Funeral services conduced the Rev. Harper were held at
12
the M. E. church on Saturday at 1:30 o'clock and the
remains were interred in the Odd Fellows cemetery.
[there was a similar obituary for Joseph Cottingham in
the 2 July 1896 issue of the Ponca City Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 9 July 1896
Died--Sunday, July 5, Orville Alonzo Theodore Slane,
the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Slane of this city.
Aged eight months and seventeen days. The little
sufferer was sick only a few days the cause of death
being bowel complaint. The remains were laid to rest
in I. O. O. F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Courier, 9 July 1896
At Rest--Orville Alonzo Theodore, only son of Mr.
and Mrs. J. H. Slane, died Sunday evening July 5, aged
8 months and seventeen days. The remains were
interred in the Odd Fellows cemetery. Funeral services
will be held later on as Mr. Slane expects to bring the
remains of his daughter from Kansas and inter them
here.
from the Ponca City Courier, 20 August 1896
Found Dead--Early yesterday morning, Hardin Ritchie
of the Osage country came to town to notify the coroner
that Charlie Mast, son of John Mast, who lived about 6
miles east of here, was found dead in a pasture. Dr.
Gillam went over to impannel (sic) a Coroner's Jury and
report upon the death. It is supposed that Charlie Mast
was thrown from a horse and killed, as he was last seen
late in the evening at the home of his sister and had
been engaged in playing croquet, after which he rode
off on his horse. He did not return home Tuesday night
and a search was begun Wednesday morning. He was
found in his brother-in-law's cattle pasture, lying close
to a gate. The theory is that his horse ran away with
him and going through the gate, Charlie met his death.
This is a sad case and one in which his parents relatives
and friends are sorely grieved, Charlie was 19 years old
and respected by all who knew him.
Later--We learn from Dr. Gillam that the coroner's
jury in the Charlie Mast case returned a verdict that the
deceased came to his death by being thrown from a
horse. We learn further that the probable manner of
death was due to the pasture gate being closed which
Charlie must have thought was open, and the horse
dashed into it, as was shown by several cuts on the
horse’s breast and forelegs. Death must have been
instantaneous as it was found that Charlie's neck was
broken. It is a sad case.
from the Ponca City Courier,15 October 1896.
Died--Mrs. Frederica Buckelman Schwarz died on
Friday, October 9, 1896 at her home near this city. The
deceased was born August 18, 1854 at Nauvoo, Illinois.
She was united in marriage with Mr. Schwarz at
Keokuk, Iowa on July 22, 1876. Several bright children
were born of the union who are left to mourn the
irreparable loss. The sympathy of the community is
extended the bereaved husband and family.
Card of thanks--We desire through this medium to
express our most heartfelt thanks to those kind friends
who lent their assistance and comforting words in the
sickness and when death came to our loved wife and
mother. Fred Schwarz and family.
from the Ponca City Courier, October 29, 1896
Died--Mrs. N. Belveal died at her home on Third Street
in this city on Sunday after a short illness. Funeral
Services were held at the M. E. church and Rev Harper
delivered a touching sermon. A large concourse of
people followed the remains to their last resting place.
Mrs. Belveal was an active worker in church and
relief circles, and was always anxious to do good acts to
those who were needy or in distress. None ever
appealed to her for assistance and was turned away
empty-handed.
She was a very generous and
sympathetic nature, and many will long remember her
for her kind offices to them in their distress.
The sorrowing husband and children have the
sympathy of the community in this hour of their
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Courier, 5 November 1896
Died--A. C. Boone, residing northwest of the city a few
miles, died last Friday morning after a sort illness. The
remains were taken to Winfield, Kansas, for burial.
The deceased was aged 56 years. He died at the home
of his son, U. G. Boone.
from the Ponca City Courier, January 7, 1897.
Mrs. Rachael McGuire Dead--After an illness
extending over a period of four months, Mrs. Rachael
McGuire died on Sunday, January 3, 1897, at the home
of her son, Will E. McGuire in this city. Funeral
services were conducted at the Methodist Episcopal
church on Tuesday at 4 p. m. by Dr. E. C. Harper who
preached a very appropriate and touching sermon.
Mrs. McGuire had reached the advanced age of 67
years, four months and eleven days. She was born in
Washington county, Illinois, on February 24, 1847, was
united in marriage to Joel McGuire. In early life she
became a member of the Baptist church and was
consistent Christian member of that church until her
death. Her life was a beautiful exemplification of the
benefits of Christianity. The trials, the adversities, the
joys and sorrows were all met with that resigned spirit
peculiar to the consistent believers in Christ, whose
works are an exemplification of that belief .
Twelve children, seven boys and five girls know
the love of this careful mother whose very life was
given for them. They have nobly repaid the love she
cherished for them, and her last wish was that she might
be buried near where several of them have established
their homes in this new country. The church was filled
with a large concourse of friends to pay last sad
respects to the loved and honored citizen.
The remains were interred, as was her wish, in the
Odd Fellows Cemetery, and were followed to their last
resting place by a large concourse of people. Touching
ceremonies at the grave were conducted by Rev.
Harper.
from the Ponca City Democrat, Jan 7, 1897.
Died--Mrs. Rachael McGuire was born in Washington
county, Illinois, February 21, 1831. died at the
residence of her son, W. E. McGuire, in Ponca City,
Oklahoma, Sunday, January 3, 1897 at 8 o'clock and 10
minutes, aged 66 years, 10 months, and 7 days. The
funeral was conducted Tuesday at 1 o'clock p. m. at the
Methodist Episcopal church, Rev. Harper officiating,
after which the deceased was laid at rest in the Odd
Fellow Cemetery.
In the death of Mrs. McGuire the community is
deprived of one of its most respected mothers, a kind
loving, Christian woman, who was loved and respected
by all who knew her. Nine children survive her, six
boys and three girls, who have the condolence of the
entire community in this the loss of their mother and
sad hour of bereavement.
from the Ponca City Courier, January 14, 1897
Card of thanks--To the many kind friends and
neighbors who assisted us during the recent illness and
death of my beloved husband, we desire to return our
heart felt thanks. Especially do I wish to thank Brother
Oglevee and wife for their kind attention to my husband
during his sickness and their sympathy for us in our
sorrow. Mrs. Annie L. Feather and children.
From the Ponca City Courier, January 21, 1897
Obituary--The funeral services of Capt. Hollis, who
passed from this life on Thursday evening last, were
conducted by Rev. W. G. Oglevee at the Presbyterian
church on Monday of this week. It was a touching
service and was attended by a large concourse of
friends.
Capt. Hollis was about 65 years of age, was born in
Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. He lived a number of
years in Indiana, where during the civil war he was
appointed captain of militia to which rank he was
entitled. In deference to this, Company E. Oklahoma
National Guards gave him a military burial. The G. A.
R. of which he was late commander, and the Relief
corps also assisted in the rites.
Interment took place in Odd Fellows Cemetery and
the remains were followed to their last resting place by
a large concourse of friends.
His two sons from Indiana were the only relatives
of the deceased present at the funeral.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 January 1897
Obituary--Capt. Geo. W. Hollis was born in Lancaster
13
County, Pennsylvania, May 1, 1833; died January 14th,
1897 in Ponca City.
He was married April 30th 1857, to Clarissa
Donnell. Two boys were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hollis,
one of who now resides at Washington, Indiana, and the
other at Indianapolis, Indiana; both in the employ of the
railroads. Geo. W. Hollis moved to Indiana, and when
the war broke out he enlisted in Company G, 16th
Indiana volunteers, to serve seven months, and received
an honorable discharge May 14th, 1862 at Washington,
D. C. He enlisted again in Company C., 76th regiment,
Indiana volunteers, and was made corporal to serve
thirty days from which he received an honorable
discharge and by special order no. 27 was made first
sergeant of company A. 123rd Indiana infantry;
discharged February 29, 1864, to accept a commission
from Governor Morton as captain of Company I, 123rd
Indiana volunteers, and received his honorable
discharge as such at Lexington, N. C. August 25th 1865
after the war was ended.
The funeral services of Capt. Hollis were held at
the Presbyterian church in Ponca City, January 18,
1897, Rev. W. G. Oglevee preaching the sermon; the
remains were then taken charge of by the G. A. R. and
W. R. C. and the captain given a burial with military
honors, Company E., O. N. G., giving the salute of
three volleys over the grave with the bugle "taps out"
Col. W. M. Barnett acted as officer of the day. The
remains were followed to their last resting by the Grand
Army, Relief Corps, military company and about fiftythree buggies, wagons and carriages, and interred in I.
O. O. F. cemetery.
Capt. Hollis was one of the first settlers in Ponca
City and leaves a host of friends who will deeply mourn
his loss.
from the Ponca City Courier, February 4, 1897
Luther Land, eighteen years old, son of Mr. and
Mrs. J. T. Land died at his home in Osage County about
twenty miles . . . [microfilm scratched and unreadable]
on Thursday last after a few weeks illness with fever.
The funeral was held Friday and the remains were
interred in Odd Fellows cemetery in the family burial
plot.
Luther was a fine young man who gave a promise
of a strong and useful manhood. He was the hope of
his parents and his untimely death is a sad blow to
them. Many friends will sympathize with the family in
their loss.
from the Ponca City Courier, February 4, 1897
Died--Chas. Randall died at his home in Longwood
Township last Thursday and was buried at Oak Grove
Cemetery near Spurlock schoolhouse on Friday. This is
sad news to his many friends. Mr. Randall was a
splendid citizen and exemplary man and a kind husband
and father. His illness was not of long duration and all
that could be was done by kind friends to ameliorate it.
14
He was aged about 47 years, and leaves a wife and
several children to fight life's unequal battles alone.
They have the deepest sympathy of their acquaintances
in their sad bereavement.
from the Ponca City Courier, February 4, 1897 [Local
News Column]
--Mrs. Cliff Hill aged 68 years died Tuesday at her
home north east of here.
--Mr. Cannon, an old gentleman northwest of the city,
died at his home on Wednesday.
from the Ponca City Courier, February 18, 1897
Death of Mrs. Onstot--We regret very much to
chronicle the death of Mrs. Onstot, wife of David
Onstot at her home one mile north of Ponca City at six
o'clock Sunday morning, February 14, 1897. She had
been an invalid for some time and for three days before
her death was unconscious, but regained consciousness
on Saturday and requested the family to sing some of
her favorite hymns and joined them in doing so. In
speaking to the family she said: "The Savior has come
and I am ready to go."
Her remains were buried Monday afternoon from
the home, simple and impressive services being
conducted by Rev. Harper of the M. E. Church assisted
by the excellent choir of the same church. a large
concourse, with about fifty vehicles in line proceeded to
Odd Fellows cemetery where interment took place.
Mrs. Eliza Allen was born in Ohio, December 20,
1830, and October 20, 1851 became Mrs. Onstot. In
1855 they moved to Wisconsin, and afterward to Cloud
County, Kansas, coming to Kay county about two years
ago. She left to sorrow over the departure of a loving
and true wife and mother, a devoted husband and seven
children, the latter all grown and mostly married, and
had buried two others while children. She was a
consistent member of the M. E. church and died strong
in faith after a long and useful life. The family have the
sympathy of a large circle of neighbors and friends.
from the Ponca City Democrat, April 1, 1897
A man by the name of McDaniel, who has been
working at Otoe, came to town recently and stopped at
the Elkhorn hotel. He had the typhid (sic) fever and
was removed to the home of his sister, Mrs. Wiseheart.
He died Saturday night and the body was embalmed by
Undertaker Hayden and shipped to Corey, Mo.,
Sunday, a brother of the deceased accompanying the
remains.
from the Ponca City Courier, 8 April 1897
--Chas. Mayes died last week from erysiupelae,
which terminated in an acute case of blood-poisoning.
Parts of his flesh died before his very eyes, and became
offensive to the sense of smell. He was only sick about
a week. Mr. Mayes was a very estimable man, and his
neighbors out northeast of the city will miss his
companionship.
buried at Kaw. Drs. Widney of the city and Long of
Kaw attended him.
From the Ponca City Democrat, 8 April 1897
Died--Thursday April 1st, at his home east of Ponca
City, Henry Mayes. The remains were taken to the
Williams grave yard Friday for interment. Deceased
was a brother of Mrs. Carter who died a week before.
He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his loss.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 6 May 1897
Died--At his farm residence three and one half miles
west of Ponca City, Thursday morning at 2 a. m. of
softening of the spinal column, John Hollenbeck, aged
59 years. The deceased had been failing for the last two
or three years. He was an early settler and well known
in Kay county and at Arkansas City where he resided a
number of years. He was born at Wooster, Oswego
county, New York, February 24, 1737 and was married
to Livina Rose in 1858. Four children were born, three
of whom are still living, Mrs. Geo. Clifford, Peter
Hollenbeck, Jr., and C. T. Thurston of Arkansas City.
The funeral services were held at the residence 3
o'clock this evening. Rev. Oglevee officiating and the
remains shipped to Arkansas City where they will be
laid to rest in Mercer cemetery at 2 o'clock today. Mr.
Hollenbeck was a member of the A. O. U. W. of
Arkansas City.
To the bereaved family and friends the community
extends sympathy and condolence in the hour of their
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Courier, 4 May 1897
Joab H. Price Dead--Joab H. Price, born near
Maysville, Kentucky, August 17, 1817. He was
married to Lovina Massey February 11, 1838, but she
was called away December 28, 1893.
He is the father of fifteen children, nine being left
to mourn his loss, among whom is V. W. Price. After
a short illness, quietly and peacefully, on the evening of
February 24, 1897 at Ponca City, fully resigned to the
call of the reaper, "Death," he passed away to that other
home, where the children and his faithful wife, who
have gone before were waiting to welcome him home.
He has been a member of the Methodist church for
nearly fifty years, although he had not united the church
at this place.
Funeral services were conducted by Rev W. G.,
Ogelvee at the home of Mr. V. W. Price, after which
the remains were taken to Richland cemetery,
Douglass, Kansas for interment.
---The children of the late Mr. Joab H. Price wish
through the columns of this paper to express their
sincere thanks to all who kindly assisted and
sympathized with them in their bereavement.
from the Ponca City Courier 13 May 1897
John Hollenbeck Dead--Venerable John Hollenbeck
passed away out on his claim last Thursday at 2 o'clock
a. m. after a short illness. funeral services were held at
3 p. m. Thursday, conducted by the Rev. W. G. Oglevee
and the body was taken to Mercer Cemetery at
Arkansas City for interment. He was the father of Peter
Hollenbeck well known in this county.
from the Ponca City Courier, 6 May 1897
Died--Felix G. Combs, died April 29, 1897 at the home
of his daughter Mrs. Thomas Greenwood, at White
Eagle station, of old age. He was born November 30,
1815 and had passed the four score years before death
claimed him. Interment took place in Odd Fellows
cemetery on April 30th, after touching funeral
ceremonies by Rev. Oglevee and Tabor. The last days
of the venerable gentleman were tempered of asperity
by the filial affection of his children. His was a ripe old
age.
---Card of Thanks: We extend to all friends who
assisted us during the hours of our bereavement our
heartfelt thanks.
Thos. Greenwood, Arabella
Greenwood, Maud Greenwood and Dillard Greenwood.
from the Ponca City Democrat 13 May 1897
An Old Settler Gone--Died, at his house at White Eagle
four miles south of the city on Tuesday, April 29th,
1897, Felix G. Coombs aged 82 years.
The cause of death was apoplexy. The funeral
services were conducted by Revs. Oglevee and Tabor
and the remains laid to rest in the Odd Fellows
Cemetery, Friday, April 30th.
Deceased was the father of Thomas Greenwood
who is well known in Ponca City and Kay County. The
family and relatives have the sincere sympathy of all
who know them.
[Same card of thanks appeared in the Ponca City
Courier.]
from the Ponca City Courier, 6 May, 1897
--Wm. Sheel aged 16 years, who has been working for
Lawrence Mathews for a couple of months, was thrown
from a colt which he was trying to break last Sunday,
and received such injuries that he became unconscious
from the start. Tuesday evening he died without
becoming conscious. He has a mother living at Kaw,
and a sister at school at Norman. His remains were
from the Ponca City Courier 20 May 1897
--D. Pixley died at his home in the Osage country
yesterday and was buried on the same day. Rev.
Oglevee conducted the funeral services.
[from the 4 February 1897 issue of the Courier, was the
following article]:
Dan Pixley returned from Kansas City Monday
where he has been for surgical treatment for the growth
15
upon his chin. The doctors gave him hope, but stated
that it is a very serious matter. He will follow their
treatment at home for the present.
[Pixley is probably buried at the Pixley Cemetery in
western Osage County, There is a Dan Pixley listed
there, but the Cemeteries of Western Osage County
(Fairfax Oklahoma Genealogical Society) dates this
death as 19 July 1887 age 60 years 21 days, 7 months
old. The date on the stone could be incorrect or perhaps
this stone marks another’s grave.
from the Ponca City Courier, 1 July 1897.
--Mrs. J. B. Barnett died at her home east of this city
of Friday last after a long illness. The funeral services
were conducted by Rev. Goodrich at the neighboring
school house and the remains were interred in the
Spurlock Cemetery. Mrs. J. H. Lee of Sherbourne,
Texas her sister, was at her bedside when death came.
The sorrowing husband and relatives have the
sympathy of all their acquaintances.
he went to Kansas. His health had been very bad since
he left and he returned here several months ago, but
only got worse instead of better. He leaves several
children: all married, to mourn his loss. The bereaved
friends and relatives have the sympathy of all.
W. R. Scott was born in the state of Pennsylvania
on March 8th, 1832 He died in Ponca City, Oklahoma
at the residence of his son; W. E. Scott, on August 15,
1897.
In 1845 he moved with his father from
Pennsylvania to McDonaugh county, Ill., and received a
complete college education. On April 16, 1867 at
Macomb, Ill., He was married to Clara Dixon and lived
with her as a companion in life till her death on
February 2, 1890. In 1877 he moved from Illinois to
Mlanta (sic) Co. Kansas, coming to Ponca City about
June 1, 1897.
The funeral services were conducted by Rev. W. G.
Oglevee in the Presbyterian church preceding the
interment in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 August 1897
Obituary.--Jotham S. Quint died August 22, 1897 and
was buried in Odd Fellows cemetery, Sunday, August
23, 1897. Funeral sermon was preached by Dr. E. C.
Harper, pastor of the M. E. church of Ponca City.
--Jotham S. Quint was born in the state of Maine,
December 3, 1814. At the age of 21 he immigrated to
Ohio, where he lived until 1845, when he moved to
Illinois; from there he moved to Iowa in 1876.
February 1896 he came to Oklahoma. In early life he
was converted and joined the M. E. church of which he
was a consistent member for fifty-five years.
He had nine children, five of whom remain to
mourn the loss of a father.
His death was painless, closing his eyes as though
tired and sleepy, he was gone 'ere his watchers knew
that death was present. He died leaning on the
Everlasting Arm.
from the Ponca City Courier, 20 August 1897
Mortuary. Sunday morning, August 15th, 1897 at the
home of his son, W. E. Scott, in Ponca City, Mr. Wm.
R. Scott, aged 65 years, 5 months and 7 days.
Mr. Scott was an aged man of good demeanor and
purpose. He had been in ill health for some months
past, but his hopes of the future were bright and
cheerful, and after a long life of usefulness he was
ready to come at the first beckon of death's icy finger
and pass from off the state of action forever. The life
that has gone out on the dull shores of mortality will
live and shine as a bright star through the endless cycles
of time on that radiant shore where the night of death is
entirely unknown.
Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. W. G.
Oglevee at the Presbyterian church on Monday
afternoon at 2 o'clock. The remains were interred in the
Odd Fellows cemetery, and were followed to their last
resting place by a large concourse of sympathizing
friend.
--W. W. Scott was born in the state of Pennsylvania on
March 8th 1832. He died in Ponca City, Oklahoma, at
the residence of his son, W. E. Scott, August 15, 1897.
In 1845 he moved with his father from
Pennsylvania to McDonough County, Illinois, and
received a complete college education.
On April 16, 1858 at Macomb, Ill., he was married
to Clara Dixon, and lived with her as a companion in
life until her death on Feb., 2, 1890.
In 1877 he moved from Illinois to Miami county,
Kansas. He came to Ponca City about June 1, 1897.
from the Ponca City Courier, 3 September 1897
Died--J. S. Quint, father of A. L. Quint, died at the
home of his son, three miles north and one-half mile
east of Ponca City on Saturday August 21, 1897, at the
advance age of 83 years. He had been sick with the
infirmities of old age for some time.
Burial took place in Odd Fellows cemetery on
Sunday, August 22, and the remains were followed to
their last resting place by a long concourse of relative
and sympathizing friends.
He had been a long and useful life and he died as
he had lived a consistent Christian.
from the Ponca City Democrat 20 August 1897
Died--W. R. Scott died Sunday August 14, 1897 at the
residence of his son, W. E.
Mr. Scott was one of the pioneer settlers of Ponca
City and lived here about a year after the opening, when
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 September 1897
--James Earl Leavitt, who had suffered with a wasting
illness for six years, died at the early age of eight years,
Ponca City, September 3, 1897. He bore all his
suffering with manly patience, and was willing to go to
16
his home above. The funeral took place in the
Presbyterian church, September 4th, Rev. W. G.
Oglevee officiating.
To the many friends who brought flowers and in
other ways helped us in our time of trial, we extend our
hearty thanks. Mrs. Leavitt and family.
from the Ponca City Courier, 17 September 1897
Obituary.--James Earl Leavitt, at Ponca City,
September 3, 1897, born in Jewell county, Kansas,
August 7, 1889.
For six years of his brief life he had been a good
sufferer, and though he had always borne his sickness
patiently and without complaint he was willing for the
change which he knew to be coming. He showed the
blessedness of the Christian hope even in a child's life,
and we may truly look upon him as a lovely flower
tenderly transplanted to the heavenly garden.
Funeral services were conducted in the
Presbyterian church by Rev. W. G. Oglevee, September
4th. The interment took place in the cemetery at Cross.
Card of Thanks--We desire to express our most
heartfelt thanks to those ;who so generously aided us at
the death of our son and brother. To those who gave
floral tributes and assisted in the funeral services we are
indeed grateful. Mrs. Levitt (sic) and family.
from the Ponca City Courier, 15 October 1897
Fay Temple Hollowell Dead.--Little Fay Temple
Hollowell passed away Friday morning October 8th
after a short illness with an affectation of the bronchial
tubes. Fay was one of the first if not the first, white
child born in the Strip after its opening to settlement.
She was born on the claim on which the family now
resides on October 10th, 1893.
Rev. Oglevee conducted the funeral services at
2:00 o'clock this afternoon and the little body was
interred in the Odd Fellows cemetery. The sympathy of
many friends is extended the bereaved parents.
from the Ponca City Courier, 29 October 1897
Little Reva Gillam Dead. Reva Gillam, daughter of
Dr. and Mrs. C. L. Gillam died in this city Thursday
October 21, 1897 aged 5 months.
Rev. Oglevee conducted the services at the
residence this afternoon and the little remains were
buried in the Odd Fellows cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 20 November 1897
The Hand of Death. Samuel B. Hunt died at his home,
east of Ponca City, Friday, November 11, 1897, of
apoplexy and was buried Saturday in the I. O. O. F.
cemetery. The funeral was conducted by Rev. E. C.
Harper.
Samuel B. Hunt was born in Hamilton County,
New Jersey, October 20, 1823. He was married to Miss
Margaret M. Farrow, May, 1844. They moved to
Indiana in 1855 and to Iowa in 1865, and came to
Cowley county, Kansas, in 1869. He came to the Strip
last September. He was 74 years and 21 days old.
He leaves a wife and ten children to mourn his loss.
His wife is 71 years old. They had been married for
fifty-two years. Several of the children live in and near
Ponca City.
The grief stricken wife and children have the
sympathy of their friends in this their sad hour of
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Courier, November 18, 1897.
Samuel B. Hunt Dead. After a long and useful life
venerable Father Hunt passed away yesterday at his
home on the Webb farm east of Ponca city. Funeral
services were conducted by Rev. E. C. Harper, at the
residence and interment took place in the Odd Fellows
Cemetery.
Mr. and Mrs. Hunt had been married for more than
50 years when his death separated them. They have a
number of children who have grown to maturity,
several of whom live here. To them and to the aged
wife the sympathies of this community is extended in
the heat of their bereavement.
He was born in Camden county, New Jersey,
October 20, 1828, and early he became a member of the
United Brethren church. Fifty-two years ago last May
he was married to his beloved wife Margaret M., who
survives him at the age of 71 years. Ten children of the
union now survive them.
from the Ponca City Courier, 6 January 1898.
Prof. W. S. Carver Murdered--Saturday morning the
house of W. S. Carver, two miles east of Blackwell
was burned to the ground. In the cellar after the fire
was found the body of Mr. Carver with a bullet hole in
his head. A coroner's jury found that he came to his
death by felonious means, and a carpenter named Fair
has been arrested and bound over to the district court to
answer for the crime. Fair built the new house of
Carver, and it is said had quarreled with his employer
over a settlement of accounts.
Friday night the two had been to a literary near by
and had gone home together. At 7 o'clock the next
morning the house burned, and the tragedy was
discovered soon after.
Fair denies his guilt
emphatically, but appearances are against him so far.
Marshall Carver of Emporia, his brother, has arrived to
look after the affairs of the dead man.
Professor Carver was well known here. He is a
penman of much skill and has taught penmanship in
this city. He had only recently competed one of the
best farm houses in the county and took great pride in
his new home.
Fair is in the county jail.
More of the murder.--Coroner Germain was seen by the
Courier today and additional information was secured
of the murder of Prof. W. S. Carver. The Coroner's jury
17
returned a verdict that death was caused by a bullet
fired by R. Harley Fair.
The testimony given by Fair was to the effect that
Carver owed him $50. He came to collect the money
and remained over night with Carver and they slept
together. In the morning both got up together. Fair
went to feed his horses while Carver was to get
breakfast. While at a nearby neighbors he saw smoke
at the house and started. From that on all the testimony
is confusing and prompted the jury to render the above
verdict without hesitation.
The Apprehended.--R. Harley Fair, who is under
arrest for the murder of Prof. W. B. Carver, has recently
lived at Arkansas City. A few years since the family
lived at Kingman, Kansas. He was always a well
behaved young man, and an active worker in the
Christian church. He was in Ponca City a day before
the murder.
The Arkansas City Traveler has dug up the
following:
"Fair says he is innocent. He claims he had no
trouble with Carver; that they settled up Friday and
Carver gave him a horse in full payment of what he
owed him. Also gave him a bill of sale of the horse
which was burned when the house was burned.
Saturday morning he took a couple of horses to water a
quarter of a mile distant from the house. He left Carver
there getting breakfast. As he was returning to the
house he saw it was on fire. He hurried to the house
and rushed in. He saw no one but on the table was a
revolver with an empty chamber and four loaded. He
took the revolver, ran outside and discharged it to
attract the attention of the neighbors to [unreadable
text] assistance did not arrive in time to put the fire out.
The investigations after the fire revealed that the cellar
door was fastened and Carver's burned body with a
bullet hole in the head was in the cellar.
from the Ponca City Courier, 21 January 1898
Died. BOYCE--Josie Boyce, aged two years, daughter
of Mrs. Emma Boyce of Kildare died Sunday night.
January 23, the little one was only sick a short time and
was a victim of membranous croup.
Funeral services were conducted Monday at 11 a.
m. at the residence of W. E. McGuire in this city and
the remains were laid at rest in the Odd Fellows
cemetery. Rev. Dr. E. C. Harper conducted the funeral
rites.
The little one was a niece of Mrs. W. E. McGuire.
from the Ponca City Courier, 21 January 1898
DAVIS--C. L. Davis, who has been residing with his
family on First street died yesterday. The funeral
services will be held tomorrow, and the remains will be
laid at rest in the Odd Fellows cemetery. Mr. Davis has
been farming a school land lease near here for the past
two years.
He leaves a wife and three children to mourn his
18
death. Relatives are expected from Enid this evening.
from the Ponca City Courier, 3 February 1898
--Little Henry Pappan, of the Kaw nation is dead. He
is well known here, having been interested in many
horse races in this city.
Phillip Dunlap killed.--Last night a number of Indians
boarded the north bound train at Kildare with out first
purchasing tickets. All of them however, paid their fare
but Phillip Dunlap, and he refused to pay. The
conductor stopped the train and put him off. He walked
along the track until he came to the vicinity of W. W.
Spencer's place, where he laid down on the track and
when the next train passed was run over and instantly
killed. The engineer who struck him thought it was a
big dog on the road and whistled to drive him off, and
he did not realize what the object was until he struck it.
Phillip was drunk when he boarded the car and it was
probably a drunken stupor which prompted him to lie
down on the track.
from the Ponca City Courier, February 24, 1898
Dropped dead.--Wm. Tannehill, one of the standby
citizens of Cross, and a man respected for his virtues,
dropped dead from heart disease this afternoon at his
home in Cross. He had been in his usual state of health,
and last night attended a party at Mr. Jones'. This
morning he was about as usual. He was found
speechless and never regained consciousness, but died
shortly afterward. Mr. Tannehill was a prominent
populist and he was always active in the councils of his
party. In all public matters he took great interest and
made himself a very useful citizen.
Coroner Germain was notified, but did not deem
that the circumstances would warrant an inquest.
The funeral will occur Sunday at 2 o'clock. He
will be buried under the auspices of R. B. Hayes of
which he was a member and Fairchild post and Relief
Corps of both posts. Both Posts and Relief Corps and
all old soldiers are requested to meet at city hall
building in Cross sharply at 1 o'clock tomorrow. The
funeral will be held in the public school building in
Cross.
from the Ponca City Courier, 2 March 1898
Died.--J. J. Saylor, who has a fine claim a few miles
west of this city, died on Saturday, February 26, 1898,
at his home after a long illness. He was aged 30 years,
four months and thirteen days. A wife is left to mourn
her loss. Last night the remains were taken to Perry,
Kansas for burial beside relatives. He had long been so
that he could not talk above a whisper, his vocal organs
having failed him first. He was a good man, a true
neighbor, and a worthy citizen.
from the Ponca City Courier, 10 March 1898
Obituary.--Died at his home in Round Grove township
one half mile north of Round Grove, Jordan J. Saylor
on February 26th of consumption. Mr. Saylor was born
in Jefferson county Kansas, where his father and
mother now reside. He married Margaret Richter in
Jefferson county where her parents reside.
The Saylor and Richter families are among the
oldest and most substantial families of the county. Mr.
Saylor's father came to Kansas with Jim Lane and was
a leader in all the early campaigns which made Kansas
a free state.
The deceased came to the Strip with his wife
among the first and established his home on his claim,
where he resided with his wife until his death. He
possessed the sterling qualities of his parents and was
recognized in his neighborhood as a valued citizen and
his loss will be keenly felt.
On Sunday his remains were brought to Ponca City
and taken to his old home for interment. His brother J.
H. Sayler, Felix Richter, brother of his wife, and the
bereaved widow accompanied the body to Perry,
Kansas.
There was a very large number of his friends at the
home offering sympathy to his widow and relatives,
and during the simple service conducted by Rev. Dr.
Harper there was scarcely a dry eye in the audience.
Many followed in the procession to Ponca city and
waited to say a last farewell to their former friend and
neighbor.
Mr. Saylor was just past 30 years old and was
married in Dec. 1892. He left no children. He never
was strong and the exposure incident to a new country
was too much for his constitution. For more than a year
his health had been gradually failing and for several
months he had realized that his life was fast nearing the
end, that the terrible disease was swiftly and surely
doing its work.
He leaves a most devoted wife, whose bravery in
facing the inevitable was remarkable and a long list of
friends to mourn his loss.
from the Ponca City Courier, 10 March 1898
Milton Frazier Bressie.--The funeral services over the
remains of the late M. F. Bressie were held yesterday at
2 p. m. from the Presbyterian church in this city. They
were simple but very impressive and beautiful. An
eloquent and comforting sermon was preached by Rev.
W. G. Oglevee from the text "He shall lead me beside
the still water." A very large audience was in
attendance and the procession to the grave was
probably the largest ever seen in the county. At the
grave the Masonic fraternity took charge and the body
was laid at rest in accordance with the beautiful
ceremony of that fraternity of which the deceased was a
devoted and earnest member. Every mark of respect
possible was shown by the business men and people of
the city. By all of whom Mr. Bressie was held in the
highest esteem, even though he had been a resident of
our city only for about six months. The stockholders
and employees of the Ponca Cash Grocery Co., where
the deceased had been employed attended in a body.
Milton Frazier Bressie was born Oct. 22, 1856 near
Farmington, in St. Francis county, MO., where he grew
to manhood, died in Ponca City, March 5, 1898. In
1884 he went to Big Springs, Texas where in company
with his brother, Mr. R. M. Bressie, and his brother-inlaw Mr. Denmark, he engaged in the cattle, mercantile
and banking business. The company were very
successful for many years standing at the head of the
flourishing firms of far Western Texas, the deceased
was one of the leading men of his county, taking a
foremost part in all public matters. He became a pillar
in the Presbyterian church, and a Knight Templar
Mason. No one in the whole community was more
loved and respected.
On December 15, 1889 he was married to Miss
Mary Gay at Osakloosa, Iowa, who with two boys,
Orin, aged 7 and Frankie, aged 3 survive to mourn the
loss of one of the best of husbands and fathers. His
married life was one of perfect happiness fidelity and
devotion. No one ever had more loving care and
constant devoted attention than was given by Mrs.
Bressie during the last illness of her husband who had
not before for twenty years been confined by sickness
to his bed,
Business reverses caused by continued drought and
falling prices of live stock caused Mr. Bressie and his
brother R. M. to leave Texas last year and come to
Ponca City. They have acquired leases on several
thousand acres of valuable land in the Ponca reservation
and are in most excellent way forward repairing their
impaired fortunes. All are sorry Mr. Bressie could not
have lived a few years to have witnessed the happiness
to his family on account of which he so much longed
for returning prosperity. Mrs. Bressie and children will
continue for the present to reside in Ponca City.
from the Ponca City Courier, 10 March 1898
Mr. M. F. Bressie dead. This community was shocked
this morning to hear of the death at 2 o'clock of Mr. M.
F. Bressie, whose dangerous illness are chronicled
yesterday. He was taken sick only nine days ago, with
catarrh fever, but his trouble did not take a serious turn
until three days ago when Plegro-pneumonia set in, and
advanced rapidly this morning. His wife and little
children are heart-broken and have the sympathy of a
large circle of friends. The funeral will be held
tomorrow from the Presbyterian church, at 2 p. m. Mr.
Bressie was a Royal Arch Mason and will be buried
with Masonic honors. The Interment will be made in
Odd Fellows cemetery.
from the Ponca City Courier, 10 March 1898
Pleasant S. Shelley--Pleasant S. Shelley was born in
Clinton County, Kentucky, on March 12, 1825 and died
in Ponca City, Oklahoma on March 5, 1898, lacking
only a week of [microfilm damaged and unreadable,
19
but probably reads "reaching his seventy-second
birthday".]
He was married June 13, 1844 when only 19 years
of age to Sarah Miller, daughter of a Methodist
minister, who was two years his senior, and who
survives him, after the two have lived in most loving
and perfect companionship for nearly 54 years. This
union has been blessed by the birth of eight children
named consecutively; Melvina, America, Dora, Emma,
Albert, Thomas, William and Sadie, the last and
youngest of whom is thirty six years of age. Their
present names and residences are: Mrs. M. J. Linn,
Jack Co., Texas, Mrs. J. A. Radmose, Bayard, Texas,
Mrs. G. W. Wilson, Hillsdale, Kansas, Mrs. J. N.
Robinson, Verona, Mo., A. H. Shelley, Coffeyville,
Kan., A. W. Shelley, Ponca City, O. T., W. O. Shelley,
Little Rock Ark., and Mrs. Thos. Denzel, Kansas City,
Mo.
Grandfather Shelley had been quite a rover in his
time and when he came to Ponca City decided to "settle
down," and always advised his friends here to stick to
their Oklahoma homes. When about 25 years of age he
emigrated to Washington county, Illinois, and a few
years later to Cedar county, Mo., only to move again in
a little while to Jack county, Texas, where he engaged
successfully in the stock business. At the close of the
Civil War, his sentiments were so much at variance
from those of his Southern neighbors that he sold out
and went in 1869 to Humbolt, Kansas where he became
a successful merchant. In 1877 he went to Kansas City
Mo., where he lived till 1892 when he went to Arkansas
City, Kansas to await, with other thousands, the
opening of the Cherokee Outlet. In the meantime he
had made frequent trips to California and elsewhere to
visit his children and see the country.
With the first settlers of Ponca City came Mr.
Shelley and his aged wife. Their modest little home
was one of the first houses built on the townsite, and
from the first day our thriving town has had no more
eloquent and enthusiastic friend and defender.
Mr. Shelley was an artisan. He busied himself at
his trade (carpentry) when not in business; and he knew
it perfectly. There was no finer mechanic in the
Territory. His motto was: "anything worth doing, is
worth doing well." He was busily engaged shingling a
house across the street from his home when the dread
messenger came. He quit work at 10 o'clock, walked
across the road to his home, laid down on his bed, and
his wife sent for neighbors and a physician. When the
latter arrived he found it was too late, but tried to revive
his circulation with two doses of digitalis. Strange as it
may seem this was the first time doctors had ever been
called for him, and the first medicine ever taken from a
doctor by him, in forty-five minutes after he quit work,
his heart action stopped--he fell asleep.
He was a consistent, devout member of the
Methodist Episcopal church from his fifteenth year
until his death. His life was full of piety and good
20
works. His character was strong and in his purposes he
was steadfast. He never wronged a man and never had
a personal enemy.
He commanded the respect,
confidence and veneration of his friends, who were
equal in number with his acquaintances.
He had been an enthusiastic and active member of
the Masonic lodge for forty-nine years. The first
money he earned at his trade in Ponca City was to pay
his expenses to Arkansas City to visit his lodge and get
his demit so he could join Ponca Lodge No. 18, then
just forming. The last rites over his body were
performed by the brethren of this lodge on yesterday
afternoon, March 7, 1898, when he was laid at rest in
Odd Fellows cemetery, by loving hands, who knew him
well for his great worth. Impressive ceremonies were
also held in the Methodist church and an appropriate
sermon preached by Rev. F. C. Harper, D.D. The
remains were followed to the grave by a large
concourse of good friends who delighted thus to honor
the memory of one whom all respected and loved.
[The May 17, 1900 issue of the Courier mentions Mrs.
P. S. Shelly is now a resident of Verona, Missouri.]
from the Ponca City Courier, 17 March 1898
Robert C. Wheat Dead.--Robert C. Wheat one of the
most respected and successful farmers of Round Grove
township died at his home on Saturday, March 12, aged
47 years.
He had not been strong since harvest when he over
taxed his strength. Friday he became much worse and
prepared his affairs for the end which came peacefully
on Saturday.
He was born in Wheeling, West Virginia in 1851
where he grew to manhood and acquired his education.
On May 16, 1883 he was married to Miss Flora Draper.
Four children were born of the union who with the
widowed wife survive to mourn the loss of a devoted
husband and a fond and indulgent father.
Mr. Wheat was an employee of the Santa Fe
railway in the machine shops at Arkansas City for eight
years preceding the opening of the Strip. He secured a
fine claim in the "run" and has developed it by energy
and perseverance until he has one of the best places of
his vicinity. His many good qualities have endeared
him to those who have known him best as a neighbor,
and he held a high place in the esteem of all who were
acquainted with him. He was a Master Mason and had
been for many years.
The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Dr.
Harper at the Excelsior school house on Sunday
afternoon and the remains were laid at rest in the Odd
Fellows cemetery west of this city. A large concourse
of his neighbors followed the body to the cemetery and
extended their condolence to the family which has
sustained an irreparable loss.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 31 March 1898
--Capt. Jack Curtis, near Newkirk, died suddenly
Monday afternoon. He was the father of Congressman
Chas. Curtis of Kansas. The remains were taken to
Topeka for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 April 1898
The young child of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Mers, southeast
of this city, died Saturday, April 3, 1898, at 2 p. m.,
aged five weeks. Dr. W. Schenck conducted beautiful
and impressive services at the grove and the remains
were laid at rest in Odd fellows cemetery. Sunday at 4
o'clock. The parents and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs.
James Powers, have the sympathy of the community.
from the Ponca City Courier, 28 April 1898
Died.--Little Bertha Levitt died yesterday at her home
in Cross after a long illness with consumption. She
follows her father and little brother, who have both died
of the same dread disease. The funeral was held at the
Presbyterian church this afternoon and the services
were conducted by Rev. W. G. Oglevee. The remains
of little Bertha and of her brother will be taken to
Lisbon, Jewell County, Kansas for burial at the old
home. The many friends of the family sympathize
sincerely with the family in their hour of suffering.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 May 1898
Died.--On May 4, Mary Stewart, infant daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Stewart, of this city.
"Dear little Mary, like the dew-drop came to dwell with
us here below. But a brief space of time in our home
she stayed, then went to live on high.
--Mr. and Mrs. Stewart and family desire to extend their
most grateful thanks to the kind neighbors and friends
who so kindly assisted them in their bereavement and to
Rev. W. G., Oglevee for his assistance and sympathy.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 16 June 1898
Died.--Roy, the six months old baby of Mr. and Mrs.
Henry Cullen, died yesterday morning of summer
complaint.
Funeral services will be held from the residence at
5o'clock this evening, conducted by Rev. Schenck of
the Christian church.
The remains well be taken to Wymore, Nebraska,
for burial on this evening's train.
The bereaved parents have the heartfelt sympathy
of the entire community.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 16 June 1898
Death from Paralysis.--W. H. Mahan died last night at
the home of Dave Reynolds. Mr. Mahan was a half
brother of Mr. Reynolds, and came here from
Harrisonville, Mo., last Saturday. Sunday night he was
taken ill, the paralytic stroke affecting his head and
causing deafness. Dr. Gillam was called but the patient
was beyond medical power.
Funeral services were held at Mr. Reynold's house
at 3 o'clock this afternoon, conducted by Rev. Oglevee
and the remains taken to the I. O. O. F. cemetery for
burial.
Deceased was 44 years old and unmarried. He had
come to Oklahoma for a six month's visit with the
family of his half brother.
from the Ponca City Courier, 7 July 1898
Bessie Guyer Cochran Dead.--Mr. and Mrs. Robert
Cochran living six miles east of the city, buried their
little daughter, Bessie Guyer, last Monday, July 4th in
the I. O. O. F. Cemetery.
She was born October 3, 1895, and died July 3,
1898.
A little over a week before her death she was taken
suddenly and violently ill, and suffered intensely to the
last. Her sweet disposition was shown by the utmost
patience in all her suffering. Truly a bright jewel has
been taken from earth as we believe to shine in
unending sweet heaven.
Throughout the long days of anxiety preceding her
death, and the darker days of bereavement, a large
circle of kind friends brought assistance and sympathy
to the stricken parents. To them all Mr. and Mrs.
Cochran extend their grateful thanks.
The funeral services were conducted at the home
by W. G. Oglevee.
from the Ponca City Courier, 21 July 1898
--Ira Viola Harfes, aged 9 months, daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. Frederick Harfes, died yesterday at the home of F.
D. Waugh west of this city, and was buried today in the
Odd Fellow's cemetery. Rev W. G. Oglevee conducted
the touching funeral ceremonies. Mrs. Harfes is a
stranger here having only been here a short time. Her
husband is a volunteer in the army and is now before
Santiago. Mr. and Mrs. Waugh with their usual
sympathy to those in trouble kindly threw open their
home to the mother in her distress.
from the Ponca City Courier, 28 July 1898
Chas. A. Cook Killed. Accidentally shot by a target
rifle in the hands of Adolphus Hackley.
Chas. A. Cook of Blackwell, aged about twenty
years was shot and killed last night about ten o'clock in
Collins barber shop by Adolphus Hackley, the colored
porter and boot black. The ball which caused the death
was 22 caliber from a target rifle and it entered the
frontal bone, directly over the right eye of young Cook.
Cook passed away an hour after he was shot.
Lyle Stewart and M. A. Parrick were the only eye
witnesses to the affair and their descriptions of it
verifies young Hackley's--that it was accidental.
The guns of the shooting gallery next door are
stored in the barber shop, and were standing in their
usual corner. The barbers had all left, and the boys had
free access to the guns. Hackley picked up a 16
chamber repeating target rifle and after fooling a little
while with the gun, pointed it at Cook and pulled the
21
trigger. It is one of these hammerless guns, and he had
no way of knowing that it was prepared to shoot, but to
say the least, it was criminal carelessness in handling a
gun in such a manner. The thousands of cases where
people are killed by friends handling guns where they
"didn't know it was loaded" should have taught
everybody the folly of pointing a gun at another.
The parents of Cook at Blackwell were notified by
telephone, and J. D. Cook the father, drove here last
night. He and his wife are nearly heart-broken over the
sad death of their son, who was just reaching manhood.
He had only been here about three days when the
accident occurred.
The remains were given to the father this morning
and were taken to Blackwell for interment.
Young Hackley, who did the shooting, is only
about 15 years of age. He has been a boot black about
Collins' shop for several weeks, and has always been a
decent and industrious boy. He feels very keenly, the
awful results of his carelessness. Since the killing he
has been under arrest.
[A coroner’s jury found Hackley fired without intent to
kill or to do bodily harm.]
from the Ponca City Courier, 28 July 1898
--Mrs. Snow Turner, daughter of Mr. J. R. Fearnow,
buried her little daughter, Vivian Lenora, yesterday.
The child was eight months and three days old, and
after a brief illness was carried as a flower in the early
morning from earth's garden to bloom in endless beauty
above. The funeral services were conducted by Rev.
W. G. Oglevee at the home of Mr. Fearnow, and the
interment took place at the I. O. O. F. cemetery, a large
number of sympathetic friends attending.
from the Ponca City Courier, 4 August 1898
Cal Young Dead.--Cal Young, aged 17 years, died in
this city last night about 8 o'clock at the home of his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Young.
Rev. W. G. Oglevee conducted the funeral services
and the body was laid at rest in the Odd fellows
cemetery.
He had been sick about two weeks with typhoid
malaria.
Cal was a strong and manly boy and he bore the
highest respect of all who knew him. His parents have
the deepest sympathy of the community.
Died.--At his home in the First ward, last night, of
typhoid malaria, J. W. Young, son of H. L. Young, the
blacksmith. Funeral services occurred this afternoon
and the remains laid to rest if the I. O. O. F. Cemetery.
Deceased had been sick only two days and was not
considered in a dangerous condition. The family and
friends of the deceased have the heartfelt sympathy of
the entire community.
22
from the Ponca City Democrat, 4 August 1898
News reaches of the death of Miss Ora Cochran,
at her parents home west of Newkirk. Miss Cochran
has for a long time been sufferer from consumption
which culminated in her death. She was once a teacher
in our city schools and will be remembered by a large
number of friends who will regret her untimely death.
as a teacher she was well liked by her scholars. The
funeral occurred yesterday.--A. C. Traveler.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 August 1898
Mrs. Harper Dead. Died--At her home in Ponca City,
Friday, August 5, 1898, Mrs. Alice G. Harper, wife of
Rev. Dr. E. c. Harper, pastor of the M. E. church of this
city.
The funeral sermon was preached by Presiding
Elder Dellaplaine, Sunday, August 7, and the remains
laid to rest in I. O. O. F. cemetery.
The deceased leaves a husband, two sons, two
daughters and friends innumerable, to mourn her loss.
Miss Alice G. Nicks was born in Murray county,
Tennessee, April 20, 1855, and was married to Rev.
Harper September 22, 1879. In 1871 she at the age of
17, entered the ministry with her husband. She was
exceptionally quiet in public, but a power behind the
throne in her home. Her husband's success, which was
almost phenomenal prior to the opening of the strip,
was largely due to her wise council.
For nearly 27 years she suffered all the
inconveniences, sorrows, and privations of the itinerant
life of the frontier.
from the Ponca City Courier, 11 August 1898.
Wm. Moore Killed.--Yesterday Jim Goode, on Doga
creek in the Osage county, shot and killed William
Moore, his step father in law. Goode has fled.
The affair started by a party of drunken Indians
under Harry King firing into a party of white men of
which Moore and Miles Powers were members. Moore
replied to the fire with his revolver and after emptying
it went to the house of Jim Goode near for another
weapon. He entered the house with his smoking gun in
his had and said, "Jim, give me your gun." "Yes, I'll
give it to you," said Goode, and pulling his gun down
on Moore shot him dead. It seems that the men had
trouble before and Goode heard that Moore had
threatened to kill him.
Miles Powers was in town this morning to get a
coffin for Moore's body. He says that a shot from one
of the Indians guns cut his horse's mane just in front of
the saddle while he was riding. He don't know what
caused the Indians to make the attack.
from the Ponca City Courier, 8 September 1898
Elizabeth Jane Bell was born in Iowa, April 18, 1956.
She died at her home near Ponca City, September 4,
1898. She married James Lemonds in 1876, and was
the mother of six children, five of whom, with her
husband, survive her. Mrs. Lemonds was a loving and
devoted wife and mother, and a kind and much loved
neighbor. The funeral services were conducted in the
Presbyterian church by rev. W. G. Oglevee today
afternoon. [She is buried in Ponca City I. O. O. F.
Cemetery.]
from the Ponca City Courier, September 22, 1898
Died.--Fred Baker, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. W.
H. Baker, died at the home of his parents north of this
city on Thursday, September 15, aged 15 months and
12 days. Interment took place on Friday September
15th. The parents have the sympathy of their many
friends.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 December 1898
Resolutions. Following are the resolutions adopted by
New Ponca Lodge No. 20 A. O. U. W., November 22,
1898 on the death of Brother Chas. R. McClung:
Whereas, It has been the wisdom of the all wise and
Almighty God to remove from our midst our beloved
brother, Charles R. McClung, Therefore be it
Resolved, By this lodge, that we do hereby extend
to the bereaved family of our brother, Charles R.
McClung, the heartfelt sympathy and condolence of this
entire lodge on the loss of a loving and indulgent
husband and father and a worthy and beloved member
of this order. Therefore be it
Resolved, That these resolutions be spread on the
records of this lodge and a copy sent to the family of
our deceased Brother ands furnished each of our city
papers for publication, and be further
Resolved, that the charter of this lodge be draped in
mourning for a period of thirty days.
Committee: J. H. Slane, W. E. Imel, J. N. Pratt
from the Ponca City Courier, December 8, 1898
Erwin Saunders (sic) Funeral.--The funeral services
attending the interment of the remains of Mr. Erwin
Sanders, (Grandpa Sanders) of Cross, lately deceased,
took place at Pans, Illinois on the afternoon of
November 24, at the residence of his brother, R. T.
Sanders, under the director of the Masonic Order at that
place.
Mr. Sanders was one of a family of thirteen
children of which eight survive, the oldest of whom is
nearly eighty years of age. Four sisters and two
brothers were present at the services, two other brothers
being too infirm to be present.
A large concourse of acquaintances and friends
were present to participate in the last sad rights.
The Masonic Lodge of Pans of which Mr. Sanders
became a member over forty years ago presented a
beautiful floral wreath of white and green.
The remains were laid to rest in the family plot in
the Mound Cemetery just as the sun was sinking behind
the western hills.
Ervin Sanders was born in Adair county, Kentucky,
February 15, 1826 and moved to Illinois when three
years of age.
He was married to Mary C. Brown
August 31, 1852. Eleven children blessed this union of
whom four daughters survive [unreadable text] their
father to his home in the great Beyond.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 15 December 1898.
Obituary. Died, at her home eight miles west of Ponca
City on December 1, 1898, Jane Gunn, wife of Wm.
M. Gunn.
Mrs. Gunn was born in northern Scotland in 1876
and was the daughter of Donald Sutherland who resided
in the town of Wick. She came to this country in 1883
and lived with her brother in Belle Plains, Kan. She
was married to Wm. M. Gunn on the 29 of December
1887, at Belle Plains, Kansas, where they resided until
September 1893. In March, 1894, she moved onto the
claim with her husband where she resided until her
death.
She was the mother of six children, three boys and
three girls, all of whom survive her. The oldest is now
about ten years old and the youngest was seven days
old at the time of her death.
Mrs. Gunn was of pure Scotch descent and
Inherited all the traits of character peculiar to her race.
She was a strict and conscientious member of the
Presbyterian church and had lived a devout and
Christian life so peculiar to the Scotch Presbyterians.
From the date of her marriage to the time of her
death she had devoted her life to the care, education and
happiness of her beautiful family of children. The cares
of this young family had absorbed all of her time and
prevented her from making a wide extended
acquaintance, but her intimate friends and neighbors
who were best acquainted with her knew of her
inestimable character. She was a devoted wife to her
husband and a loving mother to her children.
The home, once so happy and cheerful, is now
made desolate by her loss. The children, with the
exception of the oldest boy are now with Mr. Gunn's
mother at Mulvane, Kansas. Mr. Gunn has the oldest
boy with him at his home in this county.
Mrs. Gunn was buried at Blackwell from the
Presbyterian church at that place.
from the Ponca City Courier, 5 January 1899
Obituary.--Hon. John Roper, one of the early settlers
of this section [southern Illinois] died in St. Louis
yesterday, aged 90 years. The interment took place at
his old home here today. The deceased settled here in
1826, coming overland from Tennessee, his native
state. He was the contemporary of John A. Logan,
Governor Reynolds, J. L. D. Morrison and other public
men of note. He was many times honored with
positions of trust, being three times appointed census
taker for Illinois, also serving three times as chief
marshal of the state. He was repeatedly elected clerk of
the circuit court of this county. He was a veteran of the
23
Mexican wars, serving with distinction. In 1830 he was
married to Liza Wilton, daughter of Harry Wilton, the
noted southern Illinois pioneer.--Carlyle, Illinois,
correspondence in St. Louis Globe Democrat of
December 5th [1898].
[Courier note:] Mrs. John T. Hill, who lives five
miles west of this city, is a daughter of the deceased,
and was in attendance upon the last sad rites of her
illustrious father.
from the Ponca City Courier, 12 January 1899
Obituary.--Died at Cross, Oklahoma, January 10, 1899.
Wm. Ramey, aged 65 years.
Mr. Ramey was born in Carter County, Kentucky,
July 15, 1833. Here he grew to manhood and remained
a citizen of that state for many years.
He was married to Miss Martha Zorns in 1858,
fourteen children blessed this union, ten daughters and
four sons, of whom five are now living--three daughters
and two sons. One son, Henry M. now lives at Fr.
Smith, Arkansas. Another son, Benjamin, is now a
member of the 1st Texas Vol. infantry, stationed at
Havana, Cuba. One daughter, Mrs. Belle Delaney
resides at Bloomer, Arkansas, Mrs. Catharine C. Hazen
is a resident of Polk, Oklahoma; and Mrs. W. C.
Hartshorn , another daughter, is a resident of Cross,
Oklahoma.
Bro. Ramey early professed the Christian's faith
and ever thereafter lived an exemplary Christian life.
Mr. Ramey was an early volunteer in the Union ranks
of the Civil War, and served faithfully until the close of
hostilities.
In 1868 he removed to Ft. Smith Arkansas, where
he continued to reside until 1894, when he came to
Oklahoma and located at Cross. January 1st he assumed
the duties of postmaster at that place, which position he
faithfully filled until his death.
from the Ponca City Courier, 12 January 1899,
Tuesday's Daily column
--Postmaster Ramey of Cross died this morning after a
short illness with grippe and pneumonia. He was a very
fine old man and had not an enemy in the world.
from the Ponca City Courier, 12 January 1899,
Saturday's Daily column
--William Gunn is again bereft of a member of his
family. The little babe aged seven weeks followed its
mother yesterday. Everyone will sympathize with the
husband and father to whom the loss of his loved ones
is so severe a blow. [Cemetery Inscriptions of Kay
County, Oklahoma lists her name as Ina Gunn, b. 29
November 1898 - d. 6 January 1899, her mother was
Jane Gunn, b. 29 June 1869 - d. 1 December 1898.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 January 1899
Death has again visited the home of our friend,
Wm. Gunn, west of town, and this time the baby girl
24
has been called away. Its mother died a few weeks ago
and the little one has never been healthy. It died at the
home of its grandmother at Mulvane, Kansas, and was
buried at the Blackwell Cemetery Sunday last. Mr.
Gunn's friends will sympathize with him in his many
troubles.
from the Ponca City Courier, 12 January 1899
Died. -- Allan M. Dunn, at his home about two miles
west of Ponca City, on January 7, at 4 p. m. Mr. Dunn
was born in 1836 in Henderson county, Kentucky.
When quite a boy his parents moved to Illinois, where
he lived until 1880, when he moved to Audubon
county, Iowa. Here he lived and was a successful
farmer until the opening of the Cherokee Outlet. He
made the run into the Strip, secured a good farm upon
which he lived till the day of his death. He leaves two
sons and two daughters and a widow to mourn his loss.
His sons and daughters are all married and only one, J.
P. Dunn lives in this Territory.
Mr. Dunn was a prosperous farmer, and had
accumulated considerable property, which was all left
to his wife.
For many years Mr. Dunn was a terrible sufferer
from asthma, never well, but always cheerful and
hopeful, full of energy and attentive to his business.
The funeral was held at his late residence was
largely attended. An address full of beautiful thoughts
and illustrations was delivered by Rev. Dr. Schenck.
The Ponca City Quartet, composed of Mr. and Mrs.
Hauschildt, Mrs. Fowler and Mr. Stowell, sang some
music, making the whole service very impressive and
touching. After the service at the house his remains
were laid away in the Odd Fellows, Cemetery, where a
large number of the friends had gathered to pay their
esteemed friend and neighbor.
Card of Thanks. We desire to express our gratitude and
extend our sincere thanks to all of those who expressed
their sympathy and gave us their assistance in our late
bereavement. J. P. Dunn, Mrs. Sarah E. Dunn.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 January 1899
Died--Saturday last, after a very short spell of sickness,
A. M. Dunn, an aged citizen of Ponca City. The
funeral was held from the family residence Sunday and
the sermon preached by Rev. Schenck.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 17 January 1899
Died. At the home of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Onstott, 6
miles west of Ponca City, on Sunday morning, January
8, at 9 o'clock a. m. 1899, Robert Davis Onstott, aged
one year, three months and seven days, of pneumonia
fever following the grippe. Although the little one was
sick but two weeks death came not unexpected.
There were no funeral services on account of false
report that the little one died of diphtheria (sic), and the
body of the little sufferer was laid to rest in the Odd
Fellow's cemetery Sunday afternoon.
There is a mound within the graveAnd all his little playthings yard,
With your choicest treasures lay.
A short and narrow bed;
No grass is growing over it t
think now where rests our Robbie;
And no marble at its head
Not in his downey bed-Not in the distant graveyard
Ye may go and weep beside it,
With the cold and silent dead.
Ye may kneel and kiss the sod
But in a Heavenly mansion,
But you'll find no balm for sorrow
He now takes his Sainted rest.
'Neath that cold and silent clod.
He hath put on robes of glory,
There is anguish in the household:
For the little robes he wrought;
It is desolate and lone,
And hath found a home in heaven
For a fondly cherished treasure
For the home on earth he bought.
From the parent nest has flown.
Then cease from all your weeping
Remove the empty cradle;
For him you dearly love,
The little chair put 'way
For as he lies asleeping
his spirits gone above. --Mama
from the Ponca City Courier, 26 January 1899
Mrs. Lizzie Jones Dead. Mrs. Lizzie Jones, wife of
Ellis Jones, died at her home this morning at 6 o'clock
after an illness of several weeks. Her age was 56 years.
She was a native of the state of Texas where she was
married to the aged husband who survives her. The
funeral will be held at the colored Baptist church on
Tuesday, conducted by Rev. William M. Jones and the
remains will be interred in the Odd Fellows cemetery.
from the Ponca City Courier, 26 January 1899,
Longwood items
The community was somewhat shocked to hear of
the sudden death of Dr. Pyle the past week.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 February 1899
--George Anderson, whose sickness this paper
announced a few days since died at his home in the
Osage country twenty miles southeast of this city
yesterday after a short illness of two or three days.
Neighbors were here today preparing for the funeral.
He was formerly a resident of Missouri, and the
remains will be taken there for burial. Mr. Anderson
was a Mason and the local lodge will tender fraternal
honors tomorrow evening when the body is brought to
the train. Undertaker J. M. Hayden will bring the body
from the farm to this city. Mr. Anderson has lived near
the Ferrell place in the Osage for a number of years,
and has developed a fine farm there. He was an upright
man in all his dealings, and bore the highest esteem of
his neighbors and of all with whom he had business
association.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 February 1899
An Aged Father Gone.--Ben L. Guinn and his brother,
Robert L. Guinn of Longwood township were recently
called to Gower, Missouri, by the illness of their father.
while they were by his bedside he passed away at the
advanced age of 81 years, leaving an aged wife and
nine children to mourn his death. All the living
children save Mrs. Taylor Poteet of Longwood, were
present at the funeral. The father had been a pioneer of
Missouri, coming there from Illinois when a boy. He
had been married to the wife who survives him fiftythree years, and has lived on the same farm all that
time. His start in life was laid by running a ferry boat at
Blue Mill landing on the Missouri river. He was a
member of the first jury which formally tried a case at
law in St. Joseph and that jury sat under a tree with only
its spreading branches for a roof. Through all his life
he was an honorable and upright man. What more need
be said at the close of a life which has been a success
and an example for all.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, February 6, 1899
Mrs. Mary Young Dead.--Mrs. Mary Young, mother
of Mrs. Samuel P. Burress died Saturday at an
advanced age. The remains were taken to Arkansas
City Sunday for interment and funeral among her old
associations. She had been making her home with her
daughter near here for some years and has a large circle
of acquaintances who will miss her from their midst.
Mrs. Young was possessed of many admirable traits of
character which endeared her to relatives and friends
alike. The most sincere sympathy of friends is
extended the bereaved ones in their hour of affliction.
from the Ponca City Courier, 9 February 1899
Obituary. Mrs. Mary Young died last Saturday
morning at the home of her daughter Mrs. S. P. Burriss,
four and one half miles west of town. She was born in
Wales, near Cricowel, on March 18, 1828. In her early
childhood she came to this country with her parents and
lived in Indiana, the most of her life being spent in
Munci of that state.
Ten years ago she came west with her husband to
Arkansas city to be with Mrs. Burriss, their only child.
After almost forty-one years of happy married life her
husband died about two years ago, since which time she
has lived with her daughter on the claim.
At the age of eighteen she became a member of the
Presbyterian church of Muncie, being one of the charter
members. She was an earnest Christian woman, active
in church and benevolent work until her health made it
impossible for her to attend to these duties which she
always considered privileges rather than duties.
She passed peacefully away without a struggle,
sitting at the fire-side reading her home paper. Her
death will be mourned by a large circle of friends both
25
in and out of the church here and at Arkansas City and
Muncie.
Funeral services were conducted at the home on
Sabbath afternoon by Rev. W. G. Oglevee, and on
Monday by Rev. D. H. Stewart, her former pastor at
Arkansas City where she was buried.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 February 1899
Died.--Mrs. Frank E. Crocker died at her home in this
city yesterday afternoon after a short illness with brain
fever.
She was born in Bloomfield, Iowa, in November
1871. At the age of 7 years her parents moved to
Arkansas City, Kansas where she grew to womanhood.
In 1888 she was united in marriage to Frank E. Crocker.
They lived in Crescent, Oklahoma, a number of years
until coming to Ponca City a year ago. Two children
survive her, aged ten and three years, who with the
bereaved husband have the condolence of their many
friends.
The funeral will be held at Arkansas City at 2
o'clock at the Presbyterian church and the remains will
be interred at the cemetery there.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 February 1899
Died.--Mrs. Jane Leary, a respected resident of this
city, died last evening at the home of her daughter, Mrs.
W. E. Imel, in this city, after a protracted illness. She
was aged about 66 years. The funeral took place this
afternoon from the home of Mr. and Mrs. Imel, and was
largely attended by friends. The burial took place in the
Odd Fellows cemetery.
Mrs. Leary has been a resident of Ponca City since
the town was started. She had a home here of her own
which she had improved with her own hands with trees
and flowers and shrubs. Among all who knew her she
bore the highest esteem and confidence. She leaves a
daughter and son here who have the sincere sympathy
of the community in their hour of affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 February 1899
Minnie Jeffries, aged 4 months, daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. W. H. Jeffries of Round Grove township, died
Sunday after a short illness with pneumonia. The
funeral service was preached by Rev. E. T. Hill at the
family residence Monday morning and the remains
were laid at rest in the Odd Fellows cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 February 1899
The body of Mrs. Frank E. Crocker was taken to
Arkansas City Saturday morning for burial. The family
and near relatives accompanied the remains.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 23 February 1899
Mrs. Maggie Crocker, wife of our townsman,
Frank E. Crocker, died at her home, Friday, February
17, of brain fever.
26
Mrs. Crocker was taken sick about a week previous
to her death, and her condition was not considered
dangerous until a few hours before death came.
Deceased was 27 years old and a member of the
Presbyterian church. She leaves a husband, two
children, a boy of ten and a girl of three, and numerous
friends, to mourn her loss. The sympathy of the
community is tended to the grief stricken husband and
the motherless children in their sad bereavement.
The remains were taken to Arkansas City, the funeral
preached at the Presbyterian church by Rev. Stewart
and the body laid to rest in Riverview cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 23 February 1899
Died, Thursday, February 16, 1899, at 6 o'clock p.
m., at the home of her daughter, Mrs. W. E. Imel, of the
Fifth ward, Mrs. Jane Leary.
The cause of death was cancer of the stomach.
Deceased was 55 years of age. She was the mother of
two children--Mrs. Imel, of this city and Ed Leary of
the Osage reservation.
Mrs. Leary was one of the old settlers of Ponca
City, having located here when the strip was first
opened. She was an industrious and hardworking old
lady, and managed to improve several lots which she
got in the drawing for town lots. She was well liked by
all her acquaintances. She will be greatly missed by her
friends and neighbors, who extend their sympathy to
the children.
Card of Thanks. We wish to extend our most sincere
thanks to the members of the A. O. U. W. lodge and
their wives, also to the numerous other friends who so
kindly gave us aid and sympathy during the illness and
death of our dear mother. Such kindness will ever be
remembered and cherished. W. E. Imel and family and
Ed Leary and family.
from the Ponca City Courier, 2 March 1899
Died. Edmund Manly was born January 1, 1818 in
Indiana and died in round Grove township, Kay county,
Oklahoma on February 24, 1899, aged 81 years one
month and twenty-three days. His wife has preceded
him beyond the vale of tears a number of years, and he
passed away with a smile on his face whispering "I’m
going to be with mother." It was a peaceful and a
Christian death, which was the due of one whose life
had been spent as had Edmund Manly's--in honest
pursuits and with the Book of Law to govern its actions.
A ripe old age, a clear conscience, and the veil is drawn
which divides the seen from the unseen. "Well done,
thou good and faithful servant" was due in the case of
Mr. Manly. He left three boys and one girl, all grown
to mourn the loss of one who had always guided their
footsteps aright.
The funeral services were held on Saturday,
February 25, and the remains were followed to their last
resting place in Odd Fellows cemetery west of this city
by a large concourse of friends.
from the Ponca City Courier, 16 March 1899
Card of Thanks. We wish to extend to our many
friends and neighbors our most heartfelt thanks for their
many kindnesses during the sickness, death and burial
of our dear little Belle. Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Holland,
Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Vogel, and Mrs. Thomas Busby.
from the Ponca City Courier, 16 March 1899
Little Belle Holland Dead. Belle Holland, the little
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Holland, of this city,
died last night at the home of her parents after a short
illness. She was only sick a few hours, and was
unconscious almost from the first. Everything that
loving hearts could do to restore her to life was without
avail and the death angel came near midnight.
Funeral services will be conducted tomorrow at 2
o'clock at the Midland building. Rev. Oglevee will
deliver the funeral sermon.
The sympathy of everyone is extended Mr. and
Mrs. Holland upon the sad bereavement.
from the Ponca City Courier, 16 March 1899
Obituary. -- Mrs. Eleanor Cunningham, who died at
the home of her son, Wm. Cunningham, near this city,
on March 8th was born in West Marland (sic) county,
Pennsylvania in 1832, and was 67 years of age when
death came.
She was married to James Cunningham and four
children were the result of the union, all of whom
survive her: James and William of this place; John, of
Wayne county, Illinois; and Mrs. Celia Eastman of
Grenola, Kansas. All were present at the funeral except
the son in Illinois.
Mrs. Cunningham was a loving wife and a careful
mother. Her chief ambition in life was that her children
should become useful and honorable citizens. The
tender care through childhood and youth, and watchful
solicitude in maturity which the devoted mother gave to
her children is their warmest memory of the departed.
As a life companion she was the joy of younger days
and the comfort of old age.
Death came to her almost without warning, and she
passed away as her life had been--peacefully and
serenely.
The funeral services were conducted by Dr.
Schenck, and a large concourse of friends followed the
remains to their last resting place in the odd Fellows
cemetery.
Card of Thanks. -- We desire to return our most sincere
and heartfelt thanks to the neighbors and friends who so
kindly rendered assistance and comfort in the hours of
bereavement when our wife and mother was taken from
us by death's visitation. Their kindness and mercy will
long be remembered with the deepest gratitude. J. B.
Cunningham, Wm. Cunningham, James Cunningham,
John Cunningham, and Mrs. Celia Eastman.
from the Ponca City Courier, 16 March 1899
Died very suddenly. Mother Cunningham, as she was
familiarly known to all, died suddenly of heart failure,
at her home one mile east of this city, Wednesday
evening. Recently she had a severe attack of the grippe,
but had apparently recovered from this, and they
morning before her death, expressed her self as feeling
better than for several days. She became worse as
evening came, and refused to eat any supper. Later she
took a chair, set it near the bed and leaned forward on
her hands, and almost before she had finished the act,
her spirit had flown. She died without a word or
motion.
The funeral services conducted by Dr.
Schenck, were held at the home this afternoon. Mother
Cunningham was 64 years old, and is survived by her
husband, three sons, and a daughter, all of whom,
excepting the son living in northwest Kansas, were
present at the funeral.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 16 March 1899
Mrs. Ellen Cunningham died at the residence of
her son, Wm. Cunningham, southwest of town last
Thursday, at the age of 67 years. The funeral services
were conducted by Rev. Dr. Schenck and the remains
laid to rest in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 March 1899
Obituary. Erma C. Cassity [Rauch] was born in
Illinois, December 22, 1836. She married Jacob Rauch
Oct. 26, 1849. They lived in Illinois till 1876, when
they moved to Dallas, Texas, where they made their
home until they came to Oklahoma in 1897. Their
home was then in Ponca City for about one year, when
they moved to Kildare, where Mrs. Rauch died at 1
o'clock on Thursday morning, March 16, 1899. Her
remains were taken on the night train Thursday to
Dallas for interment.
She leaves her grief-stricken husband, one son,
Byron J. and two daughters, Mrs. R. H. Stewart of
Dallas, Texas and another at Atlanta, Georgia, to mourn
their irreparable loss. A large circle of friends wherever
she was known, will hear of her death with sadness.
Mrs. Rauch was a woman of very bright intellect
and rare social qualifications. She had a delivery and
dignity of moral character combined with a sweet and
cheerful disposition that made her equally welcome
among the rich or the poor. And while she naturally
moved among those of higher stations in life where she
found the spirits congenial to her bright mind, her hands
were busy with many a touch of kindness scattered here
and there among the poor and suffering deeds which
were not heralded abroad but known only to the
grateful recipient and herself.
Her rarest charms were known only to her own family,
among whom she held that high position of wife and
mother with a grace that is attained by only the best and
sweetest.
Her naturally cheerful disposition led her to look
27
upon the bright side of life, and all who came in contact
with her were made to feel the same good cheer.
Before her death she passed through some very
severe suffering, but she bore it all with the utmost
courage, and to the very end was filled with solicitude
for the welfare of her dear ones.
In her very girlhood she had joined the
Presbyterian church, and lived a long life of the most
beautiful Christian piety. She passed away peacefully
with her hope securely fixed upon heaven, and her face
lit up by that serene expression which speaks of perfect
rest.
Brief funeral services were held in the M. E.
church of Kildare, conducted by Rev. Tomlinson of the
M. E. church, and Rev. W. G. Oglevee, the pastor of
Mrs. Raunch at the time of her death. A large audience
was present. The choir sang "Jesus, Lover of My
Soul," and "Asleep in Jesus". Mr. Tomlinson offered
prayer, and Mr. Oglevee read selected scripture
passages on the rewards in heaven. He delivered a brief
but affectionate tribute to the worth and character of the
deceased speaking of her death as a sleep from which
she will awake in immortality.
from the Ponca City Courier, 16 March 1899
A sad and Fatal Accident. --Wm. Kersey met with a
very sad accident near Blackburn on the 15th of March
which resulted in his death almost instantly. He, in
company with another gentleman, were hauling cotton
seed from Blackburn to Hominy ranch bout fifteen
miles distance. They came to Blackburn on the
morning of the 15th, put on their boots and started for
home. About three miles on the road, Mr. Kersey's
wagon being in the rear, was going down hill, when by
some means he fell from the seat and striking the hard
ground so forcibly that he sustained injuries that caused
his death in a few minutes. The gentleman with him
looking back , saw him just as he had fallen and went to
his rescue, but he was able to speak but once, saying the
wagon had run over him. Investigation, however,
showed that in all probability he had fallen on the back
of his neck in such a manner that the fall was the cause
of his death.
Mr. Kersey was born in Boone county, Indiana, in
the year 1856, September 22, was 42 years, 5 months
and 23 days old. He removed to Kansas in 1876 and
from there to the Osage country in 1878.
He leaves a wife and son who live at Hominy ranch
in the Osage Nation. Two of his brothers live in Ponca
City, and his two sisters: Mrs. Ward and Mrs. Timble,
at Newkirk.
The remains were laid to rest in the Blackburn
cemetery, Friday, March 18th, after an impressive
service held at the cemetery by Rev. A. E. Lewis, of
Caney Kansas.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 March 1899
Timothy Donahoe Dead. Wednesday morning, March
28
22nd, Timothy Donahoe passed away at his home in
this city, aged 83.
The funeral services will take place on Friday at 10
o'clock a. m., at the Catholic church in this city,
conducted by the reverend Father A. G. Barremans.
The interment will take place at the Odd Fellows
cemetery at this place.
Mr. Donahoe was one of those fine old men whose
life had been rich in its rewards for right living. He had
by industry accumulated a nice property and besides
reared a fine family of boys and girls who in maturity
have all repaid the fond devotion of the aged parent by
successful and upright lives. The aged companion
survives him, to whom the death comes as a most
crushing blow. Together they have enjoyed youth,
maturity and ripe old age. "Well done, thou good and
faithful servant," has been earned by Timothy Donahoe
whose good influence upon the communities in which
he has lived survives him.
[The above obituary also appeared in the Ponca City
Courier, 30 March 1899.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 23 March 1899
Died. Wednesday morning, March 22, 1899, Timothy
Donahoe passed quietly over the silent river. Deceased
was eighty-three years old, was born in County Kerry,
Ireland. He leaves a wife and ten children, six boys and
four girls, all of whom are grown men and women, the
boys all being successful business men of Oklahoma.
The services will be held at the Catholic church at 10
o'clock Friday morning. The remains will be laid to
rest in Odd Fellow's cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 23 March 1899
Died--William Kersey, brother of the Kersey brothers
of this city, met an accident last Sunday which caused
his death. He was hauling cotton seed from Blackburn
to Hominy. While going down a hill he lost his balance
and fell to the ground, the wagon running over him
which caused death almost instantly. Word was sent to
his brothers here who attended the funeral. He was
buried in the Blackburn cemetery. He leaves a wife and
one child and two brothers to mourn his loss.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 March 1899,
and, also, from the Ponca City Courier, 30 March 1899
Charles V. Barnett Dead. -- Charles Vaughan Barnett,
a member of the firm of Barnett Brothers, died on
Tuesday night at his residence 427 G Street northwest
[Washington, D. C.], of pneumonia. Mr. Barnett was a
bright young man, who had started on a successful
business career. He was only twenty-two years of age.
Funeral services over the remains were held at the
residence of his father, Col. William Barnett, 427 G
Street northwest at 2 o'clock yesterday afternoon. A
number of friends of the young man from this city, New
York, Virginia, and other place attended. Rev. Dr.
Kuhns of Canton, Ohio, of the Methodist Episcopal
church, conducted the last rites The remains were then
removed to Glenwood Cemetery. The pall-bearers
were J. F. Fairhurst, W. H. Brighton, Cooper Maderira,
M. M. Maloy, J. P. Albro and M. E. Robinson.
Not withstanding the fact that Mr. Barnett had not
reached his twenty-third birthday, he had traveled
extensively and was acquainted in all parts of the
United States. He was born at Burnesville, Va., but
came to this city when quite young, and attended the
public schools, graduating from the Eastern High
School some years ago. He was a scholar and had a
very promising future. He was ill with pneumonia for
nearly three months, but the disease did not assume a
serious aspect until about a week ago, and he died
Tuesday, at midnight. Mr. Barnette was a member of
the firm of Barnette Brothers, merchants, at Tenth street
and Massachusetts avenue northwest. A father, mother,
three brothers, and two sisters survive him in this city,
and he also has a brother in Oklahoma. He was never
married.--Washington (D.C.) Post.
[Courier note: The many friends of Charles in this city
and vicinity will hear with the deepest regret of his
untimely demise, and will extend to the parents,
brothers and sisters their heartfelt sympathy. Mr.
Barnette was a young man of the character and
excellent attainments. His character was of the finest,
and well worth emulation of other young men. He was
no trifler, but an earnest, honest, conscientious youth at
honor to his parents and the pride of brothers and
sisters.
[This above obituary also appears in The Ponca City
Daily Courier, 27 March 1899, and the Ponca City
Democrat, 30 March 1899.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 March 1899
Harry Tooman Killed.--Harry Tooman, the son of Mr.
and Mrs. M. Tooman of this city, was run over and
killed by the south bound passenger train at White
Eagle Saturday night. His right leg was broken
between the knee and ankle and his skull was crushed,
probably by the rock ballast. The last seen of young
Tooman Saturday night was when he swung onto the
rear platform of the sleeper, after trying to persuade
some of his friends to accompany him to Shawnee. Just
after the train had started out of the yards at White
Eagle, Tooman's shriek rang out, above the rumble of
the train. It was stopped at once, but he was dead
before assistance reached him. His body was placed in
the depot and brought to the city yesterday morning.
The funeral will be held at the home of his parents in
this city at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon
Harry Tooman was a stone mason and had worked
at his trade with his father in this city. Mr. and Mrs.
Tooman are highly respected people, and have the
united sympathy of the people. [The above obituary
also appears in The Ponca City Courier, 30 March
1899.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 March 1899
The Funeral of Harry Tooman. -- The funeral services
of Harry Tooman were held at the home of his parents
in this city Tuesday, conducted by Rev. E. F. Hill. A
beautiful and touching sermon was delivered by Rev.
Hill which appealed strongly to the ears of his hearers.
Harry was a favorite among the young men with whom
he associated, and the attendance upon the last sad rites
was large and in consequence. The death came as a
severe shock to his many friends who knew him one
day as a man full of vigor and health, and the next
looked upon only the mangled remains.
The funeral cortege which followed the body to the
cemetery was large. At the grave a few words of prayer
were spoken, and all that was earthly was lowered to
the last resting place. The friends went to their homes
troubled by life's saddest lesson--death. The young
men who acted as pall bearers were Frank Cole, Robert
Chaney, Daniel McDaniels, William Jones and Messrs.
Springer.
Harry Tooman, whose death occurred Saturday
night at White Eagle, was born in Perry, Iowa, on
January 29th, 1875, and at the time of his death was
past 24 years of age. He has live here with his parents
since the opening of the Cherokee Outlet to settlement.
His youth was principally spent at Arkansas City where
he lived seven years, and Winfield where he lived nine
years.
The parents, brothers and sisters to whom the loss
of their loved son and brother is an irreparable loss,
have the most heartfelt condolence of this community.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 30 March 1899
Death of Harry Tooman. Run over by Southbound
Passenger train at White Eagle.--Harry Tooman, son
of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Tooman of this city, was killed
at White Eagle, last Saturday night, by the southbound
Santa Fe passenger train.
Harry has started to Shawnee to visit his sister,
Mrs. E. O. Bunce. Just as the train pulled out of White
Eagle station the brakeman heard the cries of someone
under the sleeper wheels. The train was stopped and
the mangled corpse of Harry Tooman was dragged from
under the car. His skull was crushed and one leg
broken. Death was instant.
The body was brought home Sunday morning and
during the day was view by hundreds of his former
associates and acquaintances.
The funeral services were held at the family
residence, south Second street, conducted by Rev. Hill,
pastor of the M. E. church of this city, Tuesday at 2
o'clock p. m.
A large concourse of friends followed the remains
to their last resting place, interment in Odd Fellows
cemetery. The pall bearers were Harry's most intimate
friends, Willie Jones, Dan McDaniels, Robert Cheney
and the Springer boys.
Harry Tooman was born at Perry Iowa on January
29
29, 1875 and at the time of his death was 24 years old.
Most of his boyhood days were spent in Cowley
county, Kansas; he has resided in Ponca City with his
parents since the Strip opening.
The grief-stricken parents, the mother almost
prostrate and the brothers and sisters, have the heartfelt
sympathy of the entire community in this their sad hour
of trouble.
from the Ponca City Courier, 30 March 1899
Timothy Donahoe Dead.--Wednesday morning, March
22nd, Timothy Donahoe passed away at his home in
this city, aged 83 years.
On the morning of March 8 he had a slight stroke
of apoplexy which was not considered dangerous and
he was rapidly recovering, but later inflammation of the
bladder set in and on March 20 he has another slight
stroke of apoplexy but he was recovering from this one
also when the third and final stroke occurred from
which he never rallied, and surrounded by his family
and friends he peacefully crossed the Silent river.
The funeral services will take place on Friday at 10
o'clock a. m., at the Catholic church in his city,
conducted by tee Reverend Father A. G. Barremans.
The interment will take place at the Catholic cemetery
at this place.
Mr. Donahoe was one of those fine old men, whose
life had been rich in its rewards for right living. He had
by industry accumulated a nice property and besides
reared a fine family of boys and girls who in maturity
have all repaid the fond devotion of the age parent by
successful and right lives. The aged companion
survives him, to whom the death comes as a most
crushing blow. Together they have enjoyed youth,
maturity and a ripe old age. "Well Done, thou good and
faithful servant" has been earned by Timothy Donahoe
whose good influence upon the communities in which
he has lived survives him.
from the Ponca City Courier, 2 April 1899
Austin Green Killed.--An accident occurred yesterday
on the Ponca ranch of Joseph S. Green which resulted
in the death of Austin Green, at five o'clock Friday
morning. Austin was helping his father haul shelled
corn. He was with one of Mr. Green's employees on
the load when something became wrong with the
harness. The team was stopped and Austin stepped
down to the wagon tongue to arrange the harness. After
it was put in place he returned to get into the wagon
when the team started suddenly. He lost his foot hold
and was thrown down in front of the wheel, which
passed over his body near the middle before the driver
could stop it. The load was a very heavy one--probably
75 bushels of shelled corn--and the weight was terrible.
He became unconscious at once and laid for hours at
the ranch house with scarcely a sign of life. He was not
bruised in any way, but his internal injuries were soon
pronounced fatal by the attending surgeons. He
30
regained consciousness long enough to speak to and
recognize his parents and his condition, but about five
o'clock this morning death came to relieve his
sufferings. He was aged twenty-eight years.
The death comes as a shock to his many friends
who knew him yesterday, as a young man full of
ambition, life and enterprise, and is indeed a sad blow
to the parents, brothers and sisters.
The funeral will occur Sunday at the family
residence on Main street in this city. Rev. E. F. Hill
will conduct the services.
[Another obituary, identical to this, appears in the
Ponca City Democrat, 6 April 1899.]
from the Ponca City Courier, 6 April 1899
Austin Green's Funeral.--Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock
at the home of his parents on South Main street, the
funeral services of Austin Green were held. Rev.
Oglevee of the Presbyterian church conducted the
services, and his words were full of cheer and comfort
for the hearts of his stricken relatives. A large
concourse of friends assembled to do honor to the
memory of him who had gone, and followed his
remains to the cemetery, when all that was earthly of
the loved and loving son and brother were laid to rest.
Austin M. Green was 28 years old. As a young
man he learned telegraphy at the Western Union office
in his hometown, and had hardly mastered the work
before he was assigned a regular station. He continued
in the employ of the railroad until his health forced his
retirement, since which time he has lived with his
parents in and near Ponca City. His life was full of
kindly acts, and he had hosts of friends wherever he
was known.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 April 1899
LINCOLN SWINNEY CUT TO DEATH. CLYDE
MATTOX HIS SLAYER. Mattox has Escaped and is
Still at Large.--Clyde Mattox has added another killing
to his list of victims. Lincoln Sweeney, (sic) Osage
ranchman, was cut to death last night by Mattox in a
quarrel in the White House Club saloon in this city.
Immediately after the cutting Mattox disappeared and
was not seen until this morning when he met friends
near this city who advised him to go to Newkirk to give
himself up to the officers. He was seen at Kildare
driving a black horse on his way toward the Osage
country. Officers Pierce, Frey and Jennings were a half
hour behind him in pursuit. They started after him from
his city after hearing that he had gone to surrender.
The trouble between Mattox and Swinney was
brewing only a very short time. Swinney was drunk
and quarrelsome, and had two encounters before he
engaged with Mattox. He threw his coat on the floor
and dared anyone to walk on it. Mattox was standing
near and he replied after a personal remark was
addressed to him that he could "walk on it and on
Swinney's carcass too," whereupon Swinney struck
Mattox and knocked him against the bar while his hat
went on the floor behind the bar. Mattox flew into
Swinney, who was a large and powerful man, like a
wild cat.
Witnesses say his fury was terrible.
Somehow he pulled his knife in the melee and slashed
Swinney on the hand, face and neck and as a parting
stroke struck him in the back inflicting a wound just
above the hip bone, cutting a gash four inches long
about as deep from which Swinney's entrails protruded.
Surgical aid could no nothing for the wounded man and
he died a few hours after.
Swinney professed to be a bad man himself and he
was continually in trouble when in liquor. He has had
frequent troubles with the police officers and boasted
that he could not be arrested. He had lived in the Osage
nation a number of years and had a wife and six
children. His sister had married into the Osage tribe of
Indians. His brother, Ed Swinney, is now serving a
sentence in the Lansing penitentiary for killing Three
fingered Jack some three years ago in a fracas in the
Osage country.
Mattox is about 29 years of age and has killed four
men. John Howard, marshal at South Oklahoma City,
was his first victim. This was in 1891. He was placed
on trial for this killing and the jury failed to agree.
After this, pending a second trial, he killed a Negro who
was an important and principal witness against him.
The first case against him was dismissed and he was
tried on the second case in the United States court and
found guilty of murder in the first degree. While in
prison he escaped and nearly eluded capture
Pending the time for the execution, his devoted
gray haired mother, Mrs. S. W. Hatch, secured from
President Cleveland a commutal of the death sentence
to life imprisonment. She never ceased her labors for
him and finally was given a pardon for her wayward
son by President McKinley. Since he has been out of
prison he has been working on an Osage ranch until the
past two weeks. During that time he has been drinking
heavily. About a week ago he shot off his revolver in a
saloon, and yesterday afternoon at the rear of another
saloon he again fired his revolver. He has carried a
revolver and a dirk knife constantly. Last night when
the trouble occurred he had no weapon but the knife
which he used with such terrible effect.
While Mattox left here with the determination to
surrender to the officers, it is now evident that he is
doing his utmost to get away, and is following his usual
bold policy.
An unauthenticated rumor comes here this
afternoon that a man supposed to be Mattox has been
killed at the ford of the Arkansas river east of Kildare
by Marshal Seng, of Newkirk.
Public sentiment is strongly against him in this
killing although sympathy for Swinney is not generally
entertained.
Jim Shockey, an ex-Rough Rider, was arrested last
night and is held as an accessory and accomplice.
Mrs. Hatch, the mother of Clyde, was interview by
the Courier and gave this statement:
"I sincerely regret the occurrence and pray God to
help me in my trouble. I know nothing of the facts
surrounding this but believe from what I can learn from
eye witnesses that my boy was justified in what he did.
I don't like to talk to reporters because they never print
anything like I say it, therefore I have nothing more to
say at present."
The coroner's jury, composed of J. P. Barton,
foreman, Peter Belveal, Dan Barber, Richard Mettler,
Milo P. Barber and Martin Tooman found the following
verdict: "Lincoln Swinney came to his death by a
wound caused by a knife in the hands of Clyde Mattox
with felonious intent."
The following witnesses were examined before the
coroner's jury:
J. J. Taylor, Chas. Dean, Billy Paden, Chas.
Hartshorn, Joe Ferguson, Wm. Fouts, Fred Cross, Dave
Boyd, Dr. A. T. Robertson, Dr. Levi Hornor, Dr. L. F.
Michael, Chas. Resarge, Harry Fisher, H. Thomas,
James Shockey, [and] Chas. Peterman.
At 5 o'clock nothing has been heard of Mattox at
Newkirk or Kildare and the chances are that he will
have a good chance to escape tonight under cover of
darkness.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 6 April 1899
CLYDE MATTOX Kills Link Sweeney during a row in
the White House Club Saloon Monday. Sheriff Pierce
and Posse Chase Mattox into the Kaw Nation where
Guards are Now Watching Him--Capture expected
hourly.--Ponca City has had another killing and this
time the noted Clyde Mattox figured as the principal.
Mattox killed Link Sweeney in a saloon row at the
White House Club Monday night be slashing him to
pieces with a dirk knife.
The facts as told the reported by the bartender, who
was an eye witness, are as follows: Sweeney had been
drinking heavily all day; about 7:30 in the evening he
entered the saloon and had a friendly scuffle with
several young fellows; finally he took off his coat and
threw it on the floor swearing that "no s-o-b can tread
on my coat tail." Mattox replied, maybe not, but I can
walk over your carcas (sic)." At this Sweeney jumped
at Mattox and hit him with his fist, knocking him
against the bar. Mattox pulled out a long knife and
began slashing, cutting Sweeney twice across the
hands, once down the shoulder, and once across the
abdomen. Sweeney reeled to fall and Mattox ran out at
the back door and escaped.
The officers of the city were notified and a
telegram sent to Sheriff Pierce at Newkirk notifying
him of the murder. The sheriff sent out a posse of men
from Newkirk who were out all night. The posse
consisted of marshal Seng, Bill Ward, Al Moore, Ed
Apperson, and Bill Myers. Tuesday morning the report
31
reached the city that Oscar Taylor and Mattox had
driven through Crow and were going north. Sheriff
Pierce, Deputy Jennings and Policeman Frey started in
hot pursuit, but were about 50 minutes behind. They
followed the trail to within one mile south of Kildare,
then east three miles, then north a mile where the trail
went due east again toward a ford over the Arkansas
river north of the Black Dog crossing. About a mile
from the river the sheriff and posse met the Newkirk
posse coming back. They reported having met Taylor
and Mattox and stopped to talk with them. None of the
Newkirk party were acquainted with Mattox and of
course never recognized him. They asked Taylor about
the Mattox murder and he told them Mattox had gone to
Newkirk to give himself up to the sheriff. The Newkirk
posse then joined the sheriff’s posse in the pursuit and
they got within 400 yards of Mattox at one time. After
crossing the ford Mattox left the buggy and took to the
brush. The underbrush is very thick in that vicinity and
it is almost an impossibility to track a man. The
officers searched the woods and went to Charly Clark's
house and made a thorough search of the house, barn,
cellar, and all the surroundings. Officers are not
stationed in the vicinity keeping a close watch and his
capture is expected at any hour.
Sheriff Pierce and his deputies have done all they
could do under the circumstances. We predict they will
get Mattox either dead, or alive in the next few days.
Had Deputy Sheriff Jennings secured the necessary
assistance the night of the murder Mattox would never
have gotten three miles away from Ponca City.
It is said that after Mattox ran out of the saloon he
hid in a wagon in front of McCarty's livery stable where
he remained an hour or two then when to his mother's
and remained over night. When he learned Sweeney
had died he made his flight.
Mattox returned to Ponca City about a year ago,
after receiving a pardon from President McKinley.
Cleveland had previously commuted his sentence from
death to imprisonment for life.
Mattox led an
exemplary life for a while, but began to grow wild
again. The past three months he has been dissipating
and become mixed up in several street fracases. His
poor old mother who has spent almost a fortune in
defense of her wayward son, is almost prostrate with
grief.
Link Sweeny, the unfortunate victim of Mattox, is
an Osage farmer and a brother-in-law of Frank Prudom.
He has heretofore been his own worst enemy. When
not drinking he was quiet and unassuming, and always
a jolly and wholesouled [sic], big-hearted fellow. His
intimate friends and near neighbors all have a good
word for him and say he was not the kind to want to
settle his disputes with firearms and knives, and was not
accustomed to making gun plays. Mr. Sweeney leaves
a wife and six children to mourn his loss. The grief
stricken mother and the little helpless and fatherless
children who are left alone in the world to combat with
32
the many hardships which must inevitably overtake
them, have the condolence and the heartfelt sympathy
of every liberty-loving citizen of Ponca City.
The funeral services of Mr. Sweeney were held at
the grave yesterday afternoon, and owing to the
disagreeable weather only relatives and immediate
friends were present. Deceased was 36 years old.
LATER. --Sheriff Pierce and Deputy Myers came down
from Newkirk this morning and arrested Oscar Taylor
on the charge of assisting Mattox to escape. Taylor
says he did not know Mattox had committed a crime
until after he met the Newkirk posse.
The commissioners have revoked the license of W.
B. McKenzie, proprietor of the white House Club,
where the killing occurred.
from the Ponca City Courier, 13 April 1899
Walter Riley Dead.--Tonkawa, Oklahoma, April 18,
1899. M. J. Riley of this city received a message today
from his wife, at Madison, Nebraska, informing him of
the death of his only son Walter Riley, now serving
with the earliest volunteer troops that arrived at Manila.
No regiment has seen harder, or done better service
than the 1st Nebraska, and among them all, young Riley
was conspicuous for his good conduct and gallantry.
Since the fifth of February he had been under fire
almost every day except two weeks during which time
he was confined to the hospital.
Mr. Riley received a letter from his son only last
week saying that he had just joined his company but
felt very weak after a six mile walk under the scorching
sun and it is probable that his weakened system could
not stand the hardships incident to trench life.
Walter Riley was almost an ideal American soldier,
a cultured, educated, Christian gentleman, and that his
life must be lain upon the alter of his country is indeed
one of the cruel fates. He has had a proud record
behind, one that his sorrowing parents can point to with
patriotic pride.
[ The above article also appeared in the Ponca City
Daily Courier, 20 April 1899.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 April 1899
A little ten months old child of Mr. and Mrs. Chas.
Vesser died last evening at its parents home in the
eastern part of the city from the effects of the measles.
from the Ponca City Courier, 18 April 1899
Chas Vesser and family returned yesterday from
Pawhuska where they laid at rest the remains of their
young child.
from the Ponca City Courier, 18 April 1899
--The youngest child of Mrs. Lincoln Swinney, a
baby boy about ten months old died yesterday at her
home in the Osage country, and was buried today. Mrs.
Swinney is in very poor health, and in addition to this,
her five living children are all down with the measles.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 May 1899.
Mrs. Anna Curtis Dead.--The funeral of Mrs. Anna
Curtis, wife of John Curtis, living six miles east of
Kildare, occurred today at the Catholic church. Mrs.
Curtis was 56 years old at the time of her death and
leaves a husband and 7 children to mourn her loss.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 May 1899
Louis Revard Dead.--Uncle Louis Revard died Friday
evening at his home in the Osage reservation after a
long illness. He had been anxious for death to come,
and he passed away peacefully, as twilight dissolves
into darkness. His long life had been an eventful one
and until recently he has born his 73 years lightly in
spite of his vast and varied experiences.
Rev. Oglevee conducted the funeral services
yesterday at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Wesley
Rariden, in the eastern part of this city where the
remains had been taken from his ranch on Saturday.
The interment took place in Odd Fellow's cemetery, and
a large concourse of his friends paid their last respects
to the departed at the grave.
Uncle Louis was a citizen of the Osage nation,
although he had not resided there until the last ten
years. He was born in Missouri and lived there in the
early turbulent times. His wife, who has long since
departed form this life, was one of the first white
children born in Kansas City. He was in business there
himself when Kansas City was only a collection of
huts--in the period when she was a wild border town,
the rendezvous of the tough and striking characters of
the west. The stories he used to tell of the men he knew
and the experiences he met were always interesting.
Later he removed to California in the great rush for
gold and resided there until ten years ago, when he
came back to claim his citizenship with the Osages. He
has a ranch on 300 acres five miles from the city, which
he has resided upon since his return.
Four children survive him: Charles Revard and
Mrs. Mary Crump of Rio Vesta, Calif.; Peter M. in
Klondike and Mrs. Jennie Rariden, of this city. His
Indian blood comes from his great grandfather who was
a full blood Osage.
[The above obituary also appeared in the Ponca City
Courier, 11 May 1899.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 May 1899
Uncle Louis Revard Dead.--Louis Revard died at his
home in the Osage nation, east of town, last Friday at
the ripe old age of 73 years. "Uncle Louis," as he was
familiarly known and called by his numerous
acquaintances and friends, was one of the most noted
men in the Osage nation. He was born in the state of
Missouri, and was one of the early settlers in Kansas
City, when he was in business for a number of years.
He was married in that city and his bride was one of the
first white children born in the city.
Uncle Louis' grandfather was a full blood Osage
Indian, and about twelve years ago he established his
citizenship in the tribe, and has been living on one of
the largest ranches in the nation since. During the
California gold excitement Mr. Revard went with the
rush, and spent a number of years prospecting. He has
a daughter living in that state now. He leaves four
children, Charles and Peter Revard, Mrs. Mary Crump
and Mrs. Jennie Rariden, besides a host of relatives and
friends to mourn his loss.
In the death of Uncle Louis Revard Ponca City
loses one of her best friends, and the Osage nation one
of her best citizens. The Democrat extends its deepest
and sincere sympathy to the bereaved family.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 May 1899
Foul Play Suspected.--L. R. Hiatt, a well digger of
Newkirk, was found dead on the farm of Mr. White, six
miles east of Kildare, on Saturday, May 20. Deceased
had contracted with Mr. White for a well and had
moved the drill to the latter's place, and started,
supposedly, for the power when last seen alive. When
the body was found the throat had been cut on both
sides and the jugular and carotid arteries severed. On
the head and forehead were three wounds, while his hat
was set a little to one side and covering the head
wounds, but there was no marks on the hat. In his hand
was an old rusty case knife, and lying near was a file on
which the knife had been recently sharpened. No
money or pocketbook was found on his person. The
indications are conflicting, but the general opinion
appears to be that a murder has been committed, while
others hold to the theory of suicide.
Deceased was said to be a harmless, hard-working
man and poor. His wife died about a year ago and left
him with three children, the eldest of which is not
twelve years old. The children are left without
resources except for the Fraternal Aid association, in
which the father carried a $1,000 policy. The children
say he had both a pocketbook and money when he left
home.
County Coroner S. M. Dunn held an inquest over
the remains, the verdict being that "deceased came to
his death from wounds inflicted with a knife in the
hands of some party or parties unknown."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 May 1899
W. R. Megredy Dead.--Ponca City loses a good citizen
in the death of William Reynold Megredy who passed
away this morning after a lingering illness, aged over
65 years.
The funeral services will be held at the opera house
on Tuesday at 1 o'clock p. m.--Decoration Day. Rev
Oglevee will preach the funeral sermon. The Masonic
lodge and G. A. R. will have charge of the service at the
hall and the cemetery. The remains will be interred in
the burial plat of the R. B. Hayes Corps W. R. C.
Mr. Megredy was born in Maryland and resided
there with his parents until three years of age, when the
33
family moved to Sangemon county, Illinois. He grew
to manhood in Sangamon county and lived there until
45 years of age when he moved west, going to southern
Kansas. He lived there until the opening of the Strip,
when he came to Kay county. He served in the Union
army in the Civil war with distinction and was mustered
out a sergeant. He was a member of the Masonic lodge,
taking the solemn obligation forty-two years ago in
Springfield, Illinois. He was also a consistent member
of the Grand Army of the Republic and was at the time
of his death commander of R. B. Hayes post in the city.
His aged wife and one son, Harry, survive him, to
whom the death comes as an irreparable loss. They
have the sympathy of this community, where the
deceased holds a high place in the esteem of the public
through years of good citizenship and uprightness of
character.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 June 1899
Died--At his home in the fifth ward, Saturday, of
cancer, W. R. McGredy, an old soldier. The funeral
was held at the Presbyterian church Monday afternoon,
conducted by Rev. Oglevie, and the remains laid to rest
in I. O. O. F. cemetery. Mr. McGredy was one of our
best and most highly respected citizens. He had been
very feeble for the past year and his death was no
surprise to his family and friends. The sympathy of all
will be extended to the grief-stricken family in their
hour of trouble.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 2 June 1899
Mrs. J. C. Rauh Dead. -- Mrs. J. C. Rauh was born in
Germany. Her father, Mr. Brunkhurst, brought his
family to America when she was about twelve years of
age. He settled in Webster City, Iowa, where Mrs.
Rauh was educated. She was married on Jan. 29, 1898
to J. C. Rauh, of this city, at her home in Webster City.
Death came in her 29th year.
Five sisters, a brother and father survive her, who
with the bereaved husband and young babe mourn the
loss of which death has brought them.
The deepest sympathy of this community is
extended to the afflicted ones.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 June 1899
J. H. SMITH DEAD. Passes away at a Ripe Old Age-A Good Man Gone. -- J. H. Smith, the venerable
druggist, passed away peacefully sometime last night.
He went to sleep and his slumber passed into that which
knows no awakening.
Funeral services will be held at the Presbyterian
church on Sunday at 2:30 p. m. conducted by the Rev.
W. G. Oglevee.
Mr. Smith was about eighty-nine years old at the
time of his death. He never knew his exact age. His
parents died leaving him an orphan while he was yet a
babe. He grew up with foster parents at Boston,
Massachusetts. While yet a young boy, he was bound
34
into service on a coast mackerel schooner, and lived a
sailor's life for a number of years until he had saved
money to acquire an education. When he acquired the
ability to secure a teacher's permit, he taught in the
schools of Wilbraham, Massachusetts. While there, he
married Laura A. Taylor, a lady of education and high
social attainments. Engaging in politics, he secured the
influence to be appointed state land commissioner for
Minnesota, where he moved in 1853. This position he
held a number of years. He was elected representative
of his district a number of times and also state senator.
He was a resident of Brownsville, Houston county.
While acting as representative, his constituents asked
that he secure a right-of-way land grant for the railroad.
To do this meant ruin for him on account of personal
interests, but so earnestly was his fidelity to duty that he
secured the grant and accepted his loss without
complaint.
He was a strong republican and made many tours
of his district to deliver addresses in the interest of this
party. About 1880 he went to Denver, where he acted
as attorney for M. M. Pomeroy, known as Brick
Pomeroy, in his great mining ventures. Brick was his
Son-in-law, and they were interested in the mines
together.
He came to Ponca City and engaged in the drug
business with the start of the town and has prospered
with the town. He long since gave up the practice of
law for the more quiet business of druggist.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 June 1899
Died.--Chalmers McCurdy, aged six months and two
days, died yesterday at the home of his parents in Cross,
Friday morning. Burial took place today at 12 o'clock
in the Odd Fellows' cemetery. Funeral services were
conducted by Rev. Oglevee at the school house in
cross. The bereaved parents, J. H. and Maggie
McCurdy have the sympathy of the community upon
their loss.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 June 1899
Obituary.--The funeral service of Miss Myrtle Ogee,
only daughter of Henry and Laurie Ogee, was
conducted by Dr. Schenck at the residence of Dr. Dean
east of town yesterday afternoon.
Myrtle was pretty, bright, winsome girl and loved
by everyone who knew her. She was just budding into
womanhood and was attending the Chilocco school
with her brother. She was taken ill at the school last
Saturday evening, and died the next evening. Her
mother is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dean, and was
here on a visit, expecting Myrtle home tomorrow,
whom she had not seen since early last November, but
only those closed eyes and cold lips greeted the fond,
waiting mother, and the proud, doting father.
The sweet young girl was snatched away while all
in love with life. The affair is an inexpressibly sad one,
reminding us of the uncertain tenure of our present
loves and ambitions. The remains were laid away in
the city cemetery, beneath the bright June skies, with all
nature vying to render beautiful Myrtle's hallowed
resting place. She was lovely in life; she is beautiful in
death.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 June 1899.
Mrs. H. E. Bouten Dead.--The sudden death of Mrs. H.
E. Bouten, at her home one mile south and two miles
west of this city, comes as a great surprise to all who
know her. She was a strong active woman and no
amount of work was sufficient to daunt her, when it
was for those she loved.
Yesterday she worked as usual, and just before
night had cooked a chicken and taken it to a little sick
girl who lived in a tent near by. She ate supper and did
her evening work as usual. The family retired about 10
o’clock, and for some time Mrs. Bouten and her
husband talked over the plans for a new house they
were preparing to build. Suddenly her throat became
clogged and her breathing difficult. She arose and sat
down in a rocking chair, and Mr. Bouten bathed her
face with water, but it did no good. She said "My time
has come," and expired within five minutes after the
attack. Mrs. Bouten had similar attacks before, but they
were light and gave no alarm. She is survived by two
sisters, one in Missouri and the other in Kentucky. The
funeral arrangements have not been made but it will
probably occur at 2 o'clock tomorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 June 1899.
A young child of Edward Howell died today after
an illness of several days with fever.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 June 1899.
The funeral of Mrs. Henry E. Bouten occurred
today at 2 o'clock at the residence southwest of this
city. Rev. W. G. Oglevee conducted the services.
Many neighbors and friends attended the last rites.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 June 1899.
A young child five months old, of Mr. and Mrs. J.
B. Easterday died yesterday of cholera infantum and
was laid at rest today. Rev. E. F. Hill conducted the
funeral services at the residence in the southeast part of
town. Many sympathizing friends of the family
attended the funeral.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 July 1899
Sammy Spriggs, the two-year old son of Mr. and
Mrs. Spriggs died in this city yesterday afternoon and
was buried today. The child was brought to town when
better medical aid could be secured, but disease had
done its work, and the little fellow passed away a few
hours after reaching town.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 July 1899
Miss Mary Nicholson died this morning after a
long illness at her home in this city. She came home a
few months ago to care for her parents who were
getting old and feeble. Some time since she fell over a
wagon seat and sustained an injury from which she
never regained her wonted state of health. Death is sad,
indeed, when it takes away one in the bright hopes of
youth, and many friends will mourn her untimely death.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 13 July 1899
Died--Monday evening of this week, of cholera
infantum, Frances Perces, the infant daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. Michael Daley of this city. The funeral
services were conducted by Rev. Father Borremans
Tuesday afternoon at 4 o'clock, and the remains laid to
rest in the catholic burying grounds. The little babe had
been suffering for some time. The Grief-stricken
parents and family have the sympathy of the entire
community in their sad bereavement.
Dr. Geo. Widney Dead. -- Dr. George Widney died at
his parent's home in Lyndon, Kansas, this morning after
a long illness with tuberculosis. His father, Wm.
Widney who is here, was notified, and will leave
tonight for Lyndon, accompanied by Miss Laura
Vandorsten, Mrs. Widney's sister.
Dr. Widney was long one of our best young men.
He practiced medicine here for several years, until his
health failed, and he sought a higher dryer climate. He
built up a fine practice and was successful in his
business, besides enjoying a high place in the esteem of
the people of this section.
The sympathy of the public will go out to the
bereaved family.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 13 July 1899
Etta Austin, aged one year and twenty-eight days,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Austin, was buried in
the I. O. O. F. cemetery today. Funeral services were
held in the home of Mr. Sherben, northwest of Cross,
conducted by Rev. W. G. Oglevee.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 13 July 1899
The two year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Ed Howell
died about 7 o'clock this morning after a lingering
illness of fever. It was an exceptionally bright, hearty
child full of cute baby ways, and the home is desolate
without it. Only last week a brother several years older
was lain away, and there is no heart in the city
untouched by the deep bereavement of the family.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 13 July 1899
Lizzie, the daughter of Mr. T. L. How, died in
Kansas City on July 7th. She had been suffering from
consumption for many months. She spent some time
with her father last winter near Gray Horse. Only last
spring she was taken to Kansas City for treatment. A
few weeks ago, her father was called from here to
35
attend her, and was with her till the last. Mr. How will
have the sympathy of many friends here.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 July 1899
George B. Widney.--While he was known to be in a
serious condition, the death of George Widney, on the
evening of Wednesday, July 5th, when announced,
came as a surprise. He had apparently improved in the
last two or three weeks, resting more and suffering less
than for some time past, and did not complain of any
change in his condition until a very short time before
his death, when after a sound sleep in the latter part of
the afternoon, be arose, and on coming to the sitting
room he sat down upon the couch, making the remark
that he felt like he was about to have a hemorrhage.
Shortly after this he grew weak, sinking rapidly until he
passed away. Tubercular affectation of the lungs and
other vital organs caused death.
On May 21st 1895, he was united in marriage to
Viola VanDorsten at Garden city, Mo. He had just
graduated from the Missouri Medical college at St.
Louis and after the marriage he and his bride went to
Ponca City, Oklahoma, where he established himself in
the practice of his profession and where two children
came to bless their home. A year or so after their going
to Ponca, the dread tubercular trouble gave evidence of
its presence. Subsequently they have sojourned in
Kansas, Texas, New Mexico and Colorado in the hope
of finding relief, but there seemed to be no effective
remedy.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 July 1899
MET AT THE TRAIN.--The Remains of Chris Riley
met with honor by the A. O. U. W.--The remains of
Chris Riley, the unfortunate brakeman who met death
at Perry yesterday, were brought to this city last night.
They were met at the depot by a large delegation of the
local Workmen of which he was a member, and
escorted to his home with honor.
The accident, which resulted in the death of Mr.
Riley, occurred about as follows: The gravel train was
backing down at about fifteen miles an hour, and a
hand-car was approaching, apparently unconscious of
the presence of the train. Mr. Riley was on top of the
caboose, and on orders from the conductor, gave the
engineer the emergency signal. All the power of the air
was at once applied to the train, and the shock threw
him from his feet and before he could recover himself,
a second shock caused by the parting of the train threw
him between the caboose and the plow car, where both
legs were cut off, besides other injuries were inflicted.
He was for a long time, foreman of the Whiteagle (sic)
section gang and left that place to accept a position as
brakeman on the gravel train. He was a good railroad
man and has a host of friends among the boys all along
the line.
The funeral will be held at 10 o'clock tomorrow
36
and the remains will be buried in the Odd Fellows'
cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 July 1899
Deaths.--Mable
May
Edwards,
the
little
granddaughter of John Fansler, was buried in the I. O.
O. F. cemetery this afternoon. funeral services were
conducted by Rev. Oglevee.
Clara Mable Jacoby, daughter of Daniel and
Abba Jacoby, was born in the county of Randolph, state
of Missouri, Jan 26, 1898, and died in Ponca City, July
17, 1899. Brief funeral services were conducted by
Rev. W. G. Oglevee, and interment took place in the I.
O. O. f. cemetery.
The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. H.
Hadley died last night. The excessive hot weather,
together with the process of teething, simply wore out
the little life. The funeral will probably be tomorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 July 1899
Funeral of Chris Riley.--The funeral services of the
remains of Chris Riley were held at the Presbyterian
church in this city at 10 o'clock this morning. The
church was crowded with sympathetic friends, despite
the threatening aspect of the weather. The services
were conducted by Rev. W. G. Oglevee.
Mrs. James Mack of Colorado Springs, mother of
the deceased, Mrs. A. G. Ambrose of El Dorado,
Kansas, a cousin of Mrs. Riley and her brothers, W. L.
and M. K Lungsdorf arrived yesterday and were present
at the services today. Besides these, Trainmaster
McNaily, Conductor Snider, with whom Riley was
serving under, and the entire train crew came down
from Arkansas City.
The funeral was under the auspices of the Masonic
fraternity, instead of the A. O. U. W. as the Courier
stated, although he was a member of both
organizations.
Both fraternities were largely
represented in the procession that followed his remains
to their last resting place.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 July 1899
M. E. Riley Dead!--M. E. Riley died at his home
yesterday evening at 9:30 p. m. of septic fever, after an
illness of several weeks. Only a little more than a year
ago his wife died, and his death leaves five children
under twelve years of age orphans. He was a quiet,
industrious, unassuming man, and an excellent citizen.
His children have the sympathy of the entire
neighborhood. The funeral was held at 3 o'clock this
afternoon at the home.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 July 1899
Tom Cunningham, a well-known rancher, was killed
at the south -L ranch [Bar-L] yesterday. It seems that
he was pursuing an animal with the purpose of roping
it, and his pony ran against a post, throwing him some
distance and killing him instantly.
from the Ponca City Courier, 20 July 1899
The infant twins of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen E.
Loveall, formerly of Guthrie, son-in-law of J. S.
Garvis, were buried in the same grave today. The little
ones were not quite three months old. The funeral was
directed by Rev. Hill, and burial was made in the Odd
Fellows' cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 20 July 1899
Died--Wednesday of this week, at the home of J. S.
Garris, the three months-old twins of Mr. and Mrs.
Steve Love. The funeral services were conducted by
Rev. Hill and burial at the Ofd Fellow's cemetery.
[Unconfirmed whether the last name is Loveall or
Love.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 20 July 1899
M. E. Riley, west of town, died Tuesday and was
buried Wednesday. Deceased had been sick for a
number of weeks with fever. He leaves four children
under ten years of age to mourn his loss, his wife
having died a short time ago. The children have the
sympathy of the whole community in their sad
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 3 August 1899
The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Wells
died yesterday afternoon. The funeral services were
held at 3 p. m. today, with interment in I. O. O. F.
Cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 August 1899
Killed by the Train.--The southbound Santa Fe freight
struck and instantly killed Mrs. Minnie Conley at
Cross. It is down grade here and the heavy freight train
was making up time. It struck her near a crossing and
she was knocked against the guard fence. In all
probability she was killed instantly, as she never
manifested signs of life after being struck.
Mrs. Conley is the wife of one of the H. & S.
graders and lived in a tent on the east side of the track.
She came out of the tent and without taking notice of
the train, which was only a short distance away, walked
onto the track. A number of persons saw the accident.
When they found her, she was lying face downward
near the track, the blood oozing from her nose and
mouth. There were no marks on the body, but she was
unconscious and no signs of life appeared. Mrs. Conley
has had quite a family, but lost them all by sickness,
and it is reported that she has been morbid and moody
of late.
Her husband was nearly crazed by the accident,
and attempted to kill himself with a gun last night. The
opinion that Mrs. Conley was demented by reason of
the death of her children is not seriously regarded by
those familiar with the occurrence.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 17 August 1899
A sad accident occurred at Cross Tuesday evening.
A southbound freight train struck and almost instantly
killed Mrs. Minnie Conley. The unfortunate woman
was seen to come out of a tent and walk onto the track,
evidently not seeing or hearing the approaching
messenger of death. Deceased was the wife of one of
the Hutchinson & Southern graders. The husband is
reported almost prostrated with grief. A family of
children were lost through sickness only short time ago.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 August 1899
The funeral was held this afternoon at the
Methodist church and the funeral services were
conducted by Rev. E. F. Hill. George [there is no last
name given in this funeral story] was a young man just
in the strength of early manhood. He was a man of
good habits, and a kind and conscientious disposition
which made him friends wherever he went. His fatal
illness came while he was in Kansas City, and he was
cared for by his father with the utmost devotion, but
death's hand was set upon him in spite of all that could
be done. George was a young man of good promise
and like all such, his untimely death causes heartfelt
grief and deep sympathy for the afflicted parents among
all his acquaintances.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 August 1899
In Memoriam.--Died of malarial fever, Lizzie, infant
daughter of Daniel A. and George Molson. The little
beauty was sick for weeks, and is not at rest and though
the fond hearts ache, there is consolation in knowing
that it bideth in its "Father's House." Mr. Molson's
family came recently from Paola, Kansas, and they
have the sympathy of this people in their bereavement.
The interment took place at the I. O. O. F.
cemetery. Thus is another sweet babe added to the
throng that has trooped away heavenward from Ponca
City during his cruel summer.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 August 1899
R. B. Gilmore, late of Millersburg, Illinois, who
has been camping for some time near this city, was
overcome by heat, together with an attack of heart
disease, Saturday evening and died very suddenly just
as he returned home from Ponca City. He had been to
town and on his return, fell exhausted in the road near
his home. A passer by thought he was intoxicated and
taking pity on him, he dragged him out of the road and
into the shade of a tree where he left him. Later Mr.
Gilmore recovered slightly and endeavored to reach his
tent. He managed to get within calling distance, when
he fell. His wife assisted him to the tent, where he died
soon after. Mr. Gilmore had money in the bank and
several good teams, besides other property. He was in
comfortable circumstances. He had $3,000 insurance in
the Modern Woodmen of America and was paid up in
37
good standing. He was a member of the lodge at
Millersburg, Illinois, of which A. J. Scranton is
secretary. The home lodge was notified Sunday. The
remains were cared for at Hayden's undertaking
establishment until this evening, when they will be
shipped to his old home at Millersburg for interment.
He leaves a wife and several children. Local Woodmen
tenderly assisted in caring for their dead and afflicted
ones.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 August 1899
J. G. Gilmore of Millersburg, Illinois, arrived here
today to look after the family and property of his son R.
B. Gilmore, who died Saturday. He left home at the
same time the body of his son left here, without
knowing of the fact. On his return, he will be
accompanied by the family of the deceased.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 31 August 1899
Died.--Daley Grace Hughes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
W. H. Hughes, Monday, August 28, 1899, at 6 o'clock,
p. m., at their residence on south fifth street. The
funeral services were conducted at the home Tuesday
afternoon by Rev. Oglevee.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 August 1899
One of the saddest occurrences which it has been
ours to chronicle is the death of two children of Mr.
and Mrs. T. J. Dean, living just east of town, last night.
One was about six years old and the other perhaps ten.
They had never been well, and the misfortune of the
children had called forth the greatest depth of parental
devotion. That they should have been called away from
this life almost at the same moment is a remarkable
coincidence, and while the home is sad indeed, there is
a pleasing thought that they are free from pain, and are
still playmates. [Cemetery inscriptions of Kay County
Oklahoma lists them in Longwood Cemetery, the
eldest, Clarence, b. 22 Feb 1887 - d. 31 Aug 1899, and
the youngest Roy, b. 21 September 1892 - d. 1
September 1899, this date must be incorrect as date of
news article is August 31.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 August 1899
E. W. Haning, an old and respected citizen of this
place, passed away last evening at 7 o'clock, after an
illness of several days with fever. He has not been
robust for some time, and the disease came upon him
with falling strength. He leaves a family consisting of a
wife and three children here, a son at Pratt, Kansas, and
a daughter in south Africa. The funeral will take place
tomorrow at the family residence in the southern part of
the city, and the remains will be laid at rest in Odd
Fellow's cemetery. The family, bereft of its founder
and protector, has the deepest sympathy of this
community.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 September 1899
Miss Myrtle Hines, east of town, who has been ill
38
with pernicious fever for some weeks, died last night at
nine o'clock. Her death though expected, is a severe
blow to the family and friends.
Jno. Meyers received a message this evening from
St. Louis saying that his mother had been stricken with
paralysis and was in a critical condition. He left on the
late train last night for that city.
The death of Miss Mathewson, daughter of an
Osage ranchman, occurred here yesterday under
peculiarly pathetic circumstances. Miss Mathewson
has been troubled with consumption for some years and
her parents have traveled extensively for her health.
Last spring they went to Colorado, but she grew
steadily worse and last week they started by wagon for
home. At Dodge City, Kansas, she was so exhausted
that it was evident that she could never reach home
alive at their rate of travel, and she longed for home and
to meet her brothers and sisters again before she died.
In compliance with her wish, the team was left and they
took the first train for home, arriving here yesterday.
She was taken to a room in Kate Ryan's restaurant, and
expired within fifteen minutes. Her body was taken to
her home today for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 September 1899
Alfretta Snow Fearnow, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
J. R. Fearnow, was born in Morgan county, West
Virginia. Dec 12, 1868. She died at the home of her
parents near this place, at half past twelve o'clock last
night. She was married twelve years ago to Mr. A. R.
Turner. She leaves her husband and four children. For
years she has been an earnest and consistent Christian,
loved by all who knew her. For the past two years she
has been a constant sufferer, and death was a welcome
release. The funeral will occur tomorrow at 11 A. M.
from the Presbyterian church.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 October 1899
The funeral of Mrs. Alma Seymore, who died
yesterday, was held today and the remains were lain in
their last resting place. Mrs. Seymore had been ill
nearly three weeks, and her disease baffled all medical
skill. A daughter, Mrs. Dora Madden, and two brothers
of Baxter Springs, Kansas, survive her and were present
at the funeral.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 October 1899
Mother Porter Dead.--This morning, Ann Eliza Porter
died at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. F. Dunham,
on south Third Street. Mrs. Porter had been ailing for
some time, and owing to her advanced age and
enfeebled condition was unable to rally. Mrs. Porter
was born August 11, 1811, and consequently was a
little more that 88 years old. She was a devout
Christian and had long been a member of the
Presbyterian church. Mrs. Porter was the mother of
eight children, five of whom survive her, three sons and
two daughters. The remains will be taken to Casey
Iowa, for burial, where her children will unite to pay
their last tribute of love go a loved and loving mother.
Those who have been wont to greet Mrs. Porter will
miss her kindly pleasant ways. Death has robbed our
city of a noble Christian character. The remains will be
escorted to the depot tomorrow morning by the
Masonic fraternity of this city.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 October 1899
Capt and James Farley, brothers of the late Mrs.
Elmira H. Seymore, returned to their home in
Chautauqua Springs, Kansas, this morning.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 October 1899
Died: Wednesday night, October 11, Miss. Jessie
Hamilton of Kansas City. Miss Hamilton came here
for her health some weeks ago and was thought to be
improving. She was a niece of Rush Elmore and was
making her home with him while here. Miss Hamilton
was an accomplished young lady about 18 years old,
and her death will be a severe shock to friends and
relatives at home. The funeral arrangements have not
been made, but the remains well probably be taken to
Kansas city for interment.
Mr. and Mrs. F. Dunham, and Miss Porter left his
morning for Casey, Iowa, to attend the funeral of Mrs.
Eliza Porter.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 October 99
James Whitewater Dead. James Whitewater, a
full blood Otoe Indian, died Friday September 20 and
was buried the following Sunday at the agency
graveyard, Rev. Outland preaching the sermon.
Deceased was over 70 years old; he served in the
federal army during the civil war and was a $12 per
month pensioner at time of his death. He was quite a
prominent member of the tribe and made frequent visits
to Washington in the interest of the tribe. Shortly after
the war he received a life sentence in the penitentiary
for the killing of two men and served 18 years time,
when he was pardoned by President Harrison for his
good behavior.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 October 1899
Died:--Mrs. Ann Eiza Porter died Wednesday
morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. F. Dunham,
of old age, being nearly 90 years old at the time of her
death. The remains were shipped last night to Harlem
Iowa, her former home, for interment. For nearly four
score and ten years she trod the rough path of mortal
life and saw many deserts blossom as the rose. Now,
"after life's fitful fever, she sleeps well." The family
has the sympathy of many sorrowing friends.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 October 1899
Death's Harvest.-- Nina, the eighteen months-old
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Fuller, died yesterday
near Tonkawa. The little child had been in poor health
all summer and doctors recommended a change of
location and air. Thursday, Mr. Fuller started overland
for Enid, camping just beyond Tonkawa that night and
the next morning the little one died. The remains were
brought back here yesterday and buried today with
appropriate ceremonies.
Bly Jones, an aged resident of the city, died last
night at his home. He came here from Arkansas some
years ago for his health, and during the last summer has
done more work than since coming here, although still
in feeble health. He will be buried in the Odd Fellow
cemetery this afternoon. His wife and three children
survive him.
Last night, the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C.
L. Greer died rather suddenly. The little one had lived
only a few months, but had won the tender love of its
parents, and its loss will be long and deeply felt.
Mrs. Lewis, married daughter of Blockson, the
well-known Osage freighter, died at her home in this
city last night. Mr. Lewis is a rancher and spends most
of his time in the Indian country. Funeral arrangements
have not yet been made.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 19 October 1899
Obituary. -- Died, on Wednesday, October 11, 1899, at
the home of her uncle, Rush Elmore, of Ponca City,
Jessie L. Hamilton, daughter of Laura and Bernard
Hamilton, of Kansas city, Missouri.
Jessie had come as the guest of her relatives here,
to spend a few pleasant weeks, and the new scenes and
varied attractions of this beautiful country. With a
nature sensitive to all the elements of her environments
she found much to enliven the hours, and so grew
happier as the days sped on. Strange faces soon grew
familiar, and new hearts have loving welcome, and
nature vied with all to hold her heart enthralled, until
we looked upon her as one of our own pretty, cheerful,
happy citizens.
Only when her thoughts reverted to the home
group in far off Kansas City, did she realize that the
picture of her self-exile was incomplete. In the bosom
of the great city, loved ones awaited the day of her
return. But their sweet hopes were but ashes on the lips
of love.
Disease, most insidious, most fatal, assailed her in
spite of intelligence and skill, and tears, and pleadings,
the Reaper bound this flower in his sheaves and went
away, to return it no more in time.
The funeral obsequies were conducted by Brother
Ogelvee, in his usual tender and impressive style. Dr.
Schenk spoke a few words of sympathy to the afflicted
parents, whom he had known since their childhood.
The songs Jessie loved so well were sung by trembling
voices, tearful farewells were said, and then the pale
form was borne away and hidden in the quiet bosom of
the city cemetery. The bright sun will smile upon it and
39
chase away the shadows; the gentle rains will fall in
benediction and feed the grasses and the flowers that
cover the little hillock; the winds will sing, low sweet
requiems; the stars will keep holy vigil through the
solemn nights, and the song of birds will say with the
sighing breezes "I am the resurrection and the Life."
We, too, will visit her grave, because we loved her;
we will adorn and care for it, in behalf of the crushed
hearts, so far away. We will treasure in our lives her
purity and girlish sweetness, and take this sad lesson to
our inner selves, that it may help us be more tender and
forgiving, more helpful and Christ-like as the days go
by, and build love in our hears, which is the key to
heaven. W.S.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 October 1899
Henry Hines, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jno. Hines, died
at his home east of the city yesterday afternoon. This is
the second time that death has entered that household
within the past month and wide sympathy is felt for the
stricken family. Henry was a stalwart young man, just
the age to launch out into the world for himself. His
parents were learning more and more to lean upon him,
and his death is a severe blow. The funeral services
were held this afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 October 1899
Died--This morning at 2 o'clock at the home of his
parents in Cross, Roy Kelso, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm.
Kelso. The deceased was a popular young man and had
been ill only a short time.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 October 1899
Jesse Lee died at the Arlington hotel Saturday
evening of heart failure. He had been here for some
time. He was a single man about 50 years old. A
brother at Savanna, Missouri was sent for and reached
this place about two hours before his brother died. The
body will be taken to Missouri for interment.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 October 1899
Jacob Steffeneaur, who recently lost his wife and
babe, left this morning for St. Louis. [Hayden Funeral
Home handled this funeral. [The death dates were 29
September 1899 and 7 October 1899, according to
Hayden Funeral Home records, but these records did
not indicate which individual died first.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 November 1899
Obituary.--Died at her home, on the 11th of November
1899, Clara, wife of H. G. McMillen.--The subject of
this sad notice had been a constant sufferer for over
three years. Eminent medical skill and sacrifice
without stint were all in vain, death alone brought
surcease from pain. In the prime of life, Mrs. McMillan
had much to live for. A kind and indulgent husband,
and two sweet-faced children are heart-broken in the
now desolate home. The wife and mother has vanished,
40
and who shall measure their loss or bring balm to their
wounded hears? How often, oh how often will they
sigh for "the touch of a vanished hand, and the sound of
a voice that is still?"
Under the shadow of this great loss, may the
bereaved ones find not only the shining face of the great
Father, but the divine features of human sympathy as
well. Let none of us lose our sense of kinship to the
sorrowing, for we too must tread the path that leads
beyond these brief hours. Time will take down our
chamber walls, and the world will see our weeping eyes
and our sad thoughts. In some tomorrow to each of us
night will have come.
Melancholy wreathes a garland for every brow; and
after our idealisms and dreams, and sunny inspirations
have withered, we shall wear the somber colors. Today
we drink from the flowing urn of enthusiasm, of hope,
of love, of divine resource; tomorrow we are hopeless
and smitten. Therefore, let us build our integrities and
fulfill our duties and mid these varied joys and griefs of
mankind. In the cemetery at Blackwell, tender hands
laid to rest the body, that was beautiful even in its
unwaking slumber.
Our departed friend has left behind her an
influence that shall blow upon sweet south wind over
the days of her remaining friends. W. S.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 30 November 1899
Died.--Cecil Richard Chamberlin, the infant son of
Mr. and Mrs. William Chamberlin, died at their home
west of town last Sunday, at the age of 5 months and 14
days. His little life had been unusually bright and
happy, and promised much for the future. His sickness
was short, but very severe. His death came as a terrible
blow to the young couple, whose happiness was
centered in their only child. The funeral services were
held Tuesday afternoon at the home of the
grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Fearnow, conducted
by Rev. W. G. Oglevee. A select choir of young ladies
from town sang some touching songs. A large
concourse of relatives, friends and neighbors
sympathetically followed the stricken pair to the
cemetery, and many a tear was dropped as the fond
mother
lovingly
fastened
an
offering
of
chrysanthemums on the new made grave--the only
thing left she could do for her darling.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 2 December 1899
KILLING AT GRAY HORSE. Dance Ends in the
Death of Chas. Brooks.--The body of Chas. Brooks, a
cowboy from Texas, who has been in the employ of J.
C. Stribbling for some months was brought to this city
last evening by the Gray Horse mail hack. Later, Jim
Conover, Stribbling's foreman, arrived and took the
body to Hayden's undertaking establishment where it
was prepared for burial.
Brooks came to his death as the result of a quarrel
in a dance hall in Gray Horse, Thanksgiving evening.
He had some trouble with Smith, foreman of Norris
Watkins' ranch, but it apparently was settled, and no
one thought further of it. After the dance, Brooks
escorted his girl to her home only a short distance
away. On returning to the hall, one report has it that
Brooks saw Smith standing near Florer's store, and that
he drew his revolver and fired two shots. Smith
returned the fire, one shot piercing Brook's heart and
killing him instantly. Another report says that Smith
shot Brooks from ambush as he was returning to the
hall. The first report seems more plausible as when
found, two chambers of Brooks revolver were empty.
There are [bruises] on Brooks face that indicate the
earlier fist fight. He will be buried in the Odd Fellow's
cemetery here today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 5 December 1899
Dottie Faye, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. G. B. Sipes,
aged ten months and twenty-five days, died at their
home on the north side of the city, Sunday night.
Funeral services were conducted in the home at noon
today by Rev. W. G. Oglevee.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 4 January 1900
Obituary.--Died at Cross, O. T. on the morning of Dec.
26, 1899, Eddie Thomas, fourth son of A. J. Thomas
and wife of this city. After an illness of remitting fever
of about ten days duration which finally developed into
pneumonia and terminated fatally on the above date.
Eddie was born in Chariton county, Missouri, in
March 1884 and was in his sixteenth year at the time of
his death. Eddie was a very conscientious boy to a
degree remarkable, by all who knew him--the common
remark being what a good boy Eddie was.
During a series of meetings conducted by Elder
Yocum of Nebraska, Eddie concluded to accept Christ
as his Master and follow in his footsteps and be united
with the Christian church at this place and during his
short life was constant and unwavering. For him, death
was only the pushing aside the curtain and stepping into
the reward of the faithful.
The funeral services were held at the Cross School
house, conducted by Rev. Hill of Ponca City, from
there the remains were followed by a large concourse of
his and the family's friends.
The parents and brothers of Eddie have the
heartfelt sympathy of the community in this their great
sorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 January 1900
Death.--At 8 o'clock this afternoon Mrs. Sarah
Hawkins, wife of B. H. Hawkins died at her home on
north third street of blood poison. Mr. and Mrs.
Hawkins came here from Hillsboro, Kentucky only a
few months ago, and are practically strangers, but have
won the very high esteem of those with whom they
have become acquainted.
Mrs. Hawkins was born in Kentucky in the year
1873, and her maiden name was Markwell. She united
with the Christian church in 1890 and was married four
years later. Two children aged two and four years, and
the grief stricken husband are receiving all the
consolation that sympathizing friend can bestow.
Tonight on the 6 o'clock train Mr. Hawkins and his
babies begins the sad journey to the old home which he
left with so much hope and happiness only a short time
ago and where the remains of his wife will be laid to
rest in the old family cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 January 1900
Pat Nulty Dead.--Patrick Nulty, of this city, died this
morning at 10:30 o'clock, of that dread disease,
consumption, age 53 years. Mr. Nulty had been
suffering for the past two years, and for the past year
had been unable to leave the house. All that medical
aid and loving hands could do was done to relieve him
of his suffering, but the angel of death beckoned and he
responded to the call.
Patrick Nulty came to Kay county on the
memorable 17th day of September 1893, and located on
a claim adjoining Ponca City, and has been contesting
for it ever since. He came from Sedan, Kansas, and has
been a prominent figure in business and political
circles. He was a man universally liked by all his
acquaintances and no man can say that Patrick Nulty
willfully did them a wrong. He leaves a wife and four
children to mourn his loss, the oldest twenty, and the
youngest eight and they have the heartfelt sympathy of
the community, in this their hour of sad bereavement.
The funeral services will be held at the Catholic
church Sunday, conducted by Rev. Father Borremans.
Burial in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
Mr. Nulty was born in New York state and came
west in 1860 and located at Osage City, Kansas,
afterward removing to Sedan where he remained until
coming to Kay county.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 January 1900
Patrick Nulty Dead.--Patrick Nulty, one of the
pioneers of Kay county, died at his home in this city
this morning at about 10 o'clock. He had been sick for
a year and there has been a gradual failing until death
came to relieve his sufferings. Some time ago he went
to New Mexico to try the effect of the high dry climate,
but getting no relief, he returned home to die. During
the first years after the opening of the outlet, there was
no more rugged man among the community than Pat
Nulty. He was a man of energy and force, progressive
and big-hearted, generous and sympathetic. His friends
were many, and they never had reason to be sorry of
their friendship. In his home, he was loyal and kind
husband and an indulgent father. The death of Pat
Nulty comes as a shock to friends, even though it has
not been unexpected.
They extend the deepest
sympathy to the bereaved family in the hour of their sad
affliction.
41
The funeral arrangements are not yet perfected, but
the services will take place at the Catholic church of
which he is a member.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 January 1900
Obituary.-- Patrick Nulty was born in St. Lawrence
county, New York on October 26, 1847, and died in
Ponca City, Oklahoma, on January 26, 1900 aged 52
years and three months.
He came west many years ago, and was a pioneer
of Chautauqua county, Kansas, where he was a leading
spirit in politics and business during his residence there.
At the opening of the Cherokee outlet, he made the run
for a home and settled on a claim west of this city.
Funeral services will be held at the Catholic church
at 3 o'clock Sunday, January 28, 1900.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 February 1900
Obituary.--Cyrus Shawl was born in Clark county,
Ohio, on Feb 1st, 1822 and died at the home of Mr.
Gillispie, three miles east of this city, on the night of
Jan. 29, 1900. He left Ohio in 1845 removing to
Illinois where remained for 25 years. In 1879 he
moved to Missouri, and in 1883 to Kansas. At the
opening of the Strip, he came with his children to this
new country where he remained till his death. He was
converted in his youth before leaving Ohio and became
a member of the M. E. church South. He united with
the M. E. Church North while residing in Kansas. He
was a faithful worker in the Master's cause since his
first connection with the church, and died in the full
assurance of faith, leaving an excellent example of
faithfulness to his children and friends.
He leaves to mourn his loss, six children: Mrs.
Gillispie, Mrs. Gibson and Miss Minnie, Messrs.
George and William Shawl, all of this place, and Mrs.
Sparks of Illinois.
Funeral services were held at the home of Mrs.
Gillispie yesterday, and the family was joined by a
large concourse of sympathizing friends in
accompanying the remains of Grandpa shawl to his last
resting place.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 February 1900
Charles Homer, the little son of Mr. and Mrs. A.
J. Puckett, was born September 21, 1898, and died Jan.
27, 1900. Funeral services were held last Sunday at the
home of the parents, on the Palmer ranch in the Osage
nation. The interment was in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 February 1900
Died.--Died, at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Gillispie,
January 9 (sic), 1900, of heart failure, Cyrus Shaul,
aged 77 years, 11 months and 29 days.
Funeral services were held at the family residence
and conducted by Rev. W. G. Ogelvee, pastor of the
Presbyterian church of this city, and the remains were
laid to rest in the Longwood cemetery Wednesday,
42
January 31st.
Deceased was the father of Mrs. Gillespie where he
has made his home for a number of years. He passed
away peacefully.
But since within the grave we laid him,
Happiness from home has flown.
Life seems strangely dark and dreary,
And the days have longer grown.
Sad are our hearts and empty his chair,
Angels have taken him out of our care;
Home is not home for father is not here,
He is gone to that home so peaceful and fair.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 February 1900
Mrs. Sarah A. Dunlap Dead.--Died Feb. 6th at 5 a. .m.
Mrs. Sarah A Dunlap, in her 77th year, at the home of
G. W. Burton.--Mrs. Dunlap was born in Salisbury, Md.
She was the mother of six children, four of whom
survive her. Her husband died six years ago, since
which event she has made her home with Mrs. G. W.
Burton, her daughter. Grandma Dunlap was an aunt of
J. H. Calloway of this city.
Mrs. Dunlap was a lady of remarkable
construction, enjoying good health until the
encroachments of age impaired her vigor. Her last
illness was brief, and was the harbinger of dissolution.
Not only the immediate family will miss her kindly
smile, and helpful womanhood, but all whom she knew
will realize that grandma's death entails a loss that
cannot be filled. She lived a loving true life, hence her
death was peaceful and without any shadows. To each
of us comes the sad reflection that we must give up our
friends, that these ties all knit of affection are brief; and
that after each has been the loser, each must take his
place with the lost. We have all been tried, we have
slept with disappointment, and supped with sorrow.
We cannot hope to bear the burden of as many years as
the mother we mourn, yet we may build stately lives
out of the elements of truth and fidelity as she did.
Death is a mystery, such too is life, yet we feel that the
close of our aged friend's career can bring naught but
gain and infinite blessing. The true mother heart can
never perish, nor wander beyond the love and care of
the Great Father. In early life she united with the M. E.
church and lived consistently as a Christian in all her
succeeding years.
To the sorrowing family we offer heartfelt
condolence and trust that they and we may walk
whither she has led. The funeral services were
conducted at the family residence this morning, after
which the remains were laid to rest in the beautiful
cemetery southwest of the city.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 February 1900
The deepest sympathy of Ponca city is extended to
Mr. and Mrs. W. L. Barnum upon the death of their
little daughter who passed away at Huston (sic), Texas,
Sunday night. She had been ill with whooping cough
before she left with Mrs. Barnum for Texas some three
weeks ago, but after reaching there her conditions
became worse and Mr.. Barnum was sent for. He
arrived in time to see his baby alive but death soon after
claimed her. The remains were laid at rest at Huston
(sic), Texas. Mrs. Barnum was very ill from nervous
shock on Monday, but her condition was not considered
serious.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 8 February 1900
Obituaries.--Sarah Calloway was born in Maryland on
May 16, 1823, and died at the home of her daughter,
Mrs. G. W. Burton, near Ponca City, Oklahoma, [no
date]. She was married in 1850 to Mr. Dunlap, with
whom she lived happily for forty-four years, until his
death six years ago. She was the mother of six
children, four of whom are still living, William James
Dunlap, Mrs. Mary Murphy, Mrs. G. W. Burton and
Mrs. W. L.. Johnson.
There are twenty-two
grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Deceased was converted in early youth, and all her
subsequent life was a faithful and consistent member of
the Methodist church. She has entered into the reward
of them that are faithful in this life, and leaves her
children the happy legacy of the sure hope of meeting
her beyond. Of her it can truly be said that she is "at
home with the Lord." Funeral services were held at the
home of Mrs. Burton yesterday, and a large gathering
of sympathetic friends accompanied the grief-stricken
family to the I. O. O. F. cemetery where interment took
place.
Died--Monday, February 5, 1900, at his home in
Cale, Kansas, C. T. Siffered, aged 82 years, 4 months
and 24 days. The remains were laid to rest in Mercer
cemetery yesterday. The immediate cause of death was
crysipelas. Mr. Sifferd was the father of Geo. T.
Sifferd, living west of this city. The funeral was
attended by seven children, seventeen grandchildren,
sixteen great-grandchildren, and a large concourse of
other relatives and friends of the deceased.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 February 1900
Found Dead.--Dunlap, a son-in-law of Whiteagle Chief
of the Ponca Indians, was found dead four miles east of
the Agency near the bridge crossing the Arkansas river,
early this morning by Lennie Sears, a mutual friend.
Dunlap had been missed from his home for about six
days and Sears has been constantly searching for him.
Whiteagle came to town at noon to ask his friend,
Dick Plunket, what the white men would do about the
matter. The Ponca reservation being embraced in
Noble county's judicial district, the coroner at Perry has
been notified and will come up on the evening train to
view the remains. He will be met by almost the entire
tribe of Indians. The Indians in the meantime have not
touched the body, consequently the cause of death is
not known.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 February 1900
Mrs. W. F. Doty died at her home on south First
street Saturday afternoon aged about 59 years. She had
been sick for some time before death claimed her. The
burial took place today in Odd Fellow's cemetery.
General sympathy is extended to the aged husband,
who is bereft of the companion who has been at his side
for so many years. Two sons in Colorado and a
daughter in California survive her.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 15 February 1900
Died--At her home on south First street, Saturday,
February 10, Mrs. W. F. Doty. Deceased had been
sick several weeks and was 59 years of age. The
remains were laid to rest in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
She leaves a husband, two sons and a daughter to
mourn her loss. The sympathy of the community is
extended to Mr. Doty in his sad bereavement.
H. B. Ryther, foreman of the Democrat, received
the sad news Sunday, of the death of his mother at
Hutchinson, Kansas. He left on the evening train to
attend the funeral. He was accompanied by his wife
and child.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 22 February 1900
Died.--last Friday, February 16, 1900, Don, the only
dog the writer ever owned. Deceased was 9 years old.
He had a number of friends in the city and a host of
enemies. don's greatest fault was in chasing chickens
and robbing hen's nests. His death will be mourned by
some while others will rejoice at his sudden departure.
Peace to his ashes.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 February 1900
The funeral sermon of Mrs. Doty was preached in
the old school house yesterday by Rev. Reeses of
Hunnewell.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 February 1900
W. F. Doty and son, Stonewell , will take their
departure tomorrow for Cripple Creek, Colorado. Mr.
Doty expects to remain in that city. The best wishes of
his many friends go with him.
W. E. Herod, of Blackwell, whose little daughter was
a victim of the smallpox, has a cat that had the disease
also. It was quarantined eighteen days and has some
very bad pox marks. The cat was a constant companion
of the little girl and it is supposed took the disease from
her.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 February 1900
The life of Mrs. L. D. Reynolds took its flight
yesterday. She has been a sufferer of tuberculosis for
about two years. She is a young woman about twentytwo years of age, and it is sad to record her death when
at this age she should be in the prime of health. She
was a devoted loving wife, and besides a husband, she
leaves other relatives in Missouri to mourn their loss.
43
The remains well be shipped this evening to Missouri
where they will be interred to await the mourn of the
resurrection. The bereaved husband has the sympathy
of the entire community in the untimely death of his
companion.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 March 1900
Mrs. Chas. Curtis Dead.--Mrs. Ida Clemmer Curtis,
wife of Chas U. Curtis, died at the home of her parents
in the city this morning after an illness of several
weeks, aged 21 years, 3 months and 18 days.
Funeral services will be held at the M. E. church on
Sunday at 2:30 o'clock p. m., conducted by Rev. E. F.
Hill
Mrs. Curtis leaves a young babe, a sorrowing
husband and parents to mourn her untimely death.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 March 1900
Frank Donahoe Dead.--The sad news was announced
yesterday that Frank N. Donahoe, of Tonkawa died at
an early hour in the morning. Mr. Donahoe had been
sick for some time, first with typhoid fever and after
with a complication of pneumonia. He had been resting
easier for a short time, and it was hoped he was on the
road to recovery.
The funeral service will be conducted at the
Catholic church in this city at 10 o'clock Sunday
morning.
Mr. Donahoe was a resident of this city for some
time and he was well known and highly respected for
many good qualities. He was a brother of E. L.
Donahoe, of the Ponca City Mills.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 8 March 1900
Obituary.--Ida Clemmer was born November 13, 1878
at Kingman, Kansas, and came to Oklahoma with her
parents in 1893. She was married to Mr. C. W. Curtis,
July 3, 1899, and died March 3, 1900; at the residence
of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Clemmer of this
city, aged 21 years, 3 months and 18 days.
The funeral services were held at the Methodist
church, under the supervision of the Women's Relief
Corps of which deceased was a member, and the
sermon preached by Rev. E. F. Hill, assisted by Rev. E.
C. Harper. The remains were laid to rest in the I. O. O.
F. cemetery, followed by a large concourse of friends
and old school mates.
The bereaved husband and other relatives have the
sympathy of all who know them in this their sad hour of
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 8 March 1900
Frank Donahoe's death.--Frank Donahoe died
Saturday, March 3, at Tonkawa, of pneumonial fever.
Mr. Donahoe had been sick for several weeks but was
not considered dangerous until a short time before his
death. Funeral services were conducted from the
Catholic church Sunday morning at 10 o'clock, and was
44
buried in the I. O. O. F. cemetery. Mr. Donahoe was
well known in this city having resided here for some
time. He was a splendid young man respected by all his
acquaintances. He was a brother of our fellow
townsman, E. L. Donahoe, of the Ponca City Milling
Co.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 8 March 1900
Ernest Foutz and wife went to Kingman, Kansas,
last night in answer to a message conveying the ill news
of the serious illness of Mr. Foutz' mother, Mrs. I. W.
West.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 March 1900
Mrs. Jennie Maxwell Welch Dead.--The sad death of
Mrs. Jennie Welch was announced yesterday morning.
She passed away at El Reno, Wednesday evening after
a long illness with consumption. It was only a few
months ago that she wedded John Welch, one of the
well known young men of this city, and they started out
together full of joy to build a home. The happiness was
soon marred by the certainty that consumption had
gained a hold upon her that medical skill could not
break. All that could be done only put off the day when
death should call. Many friends here will mourn the
death of this estimable lady, who had grown to
womanhood in their midst. She was possessed of a
genial sunny disposition which endeared her to
acquaintances and made her death a doubly hard blow
to relatives and to the bereaved young husband. The
deepest sympathy of this community is extended them
in the hour of their great loss.
The funeral was held today at the M. E. church and
a large assemblage said their last respects to one they
loved. The body was brought here last evening from El
Reno.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 March 1900
Mrs. J. M. Morrow received word yesterday that her
brother at Mulhall was very seriously ill. She left this
morning for his bedside.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 15 March 1900
Death of Mrs. Welch.--Mrs. Jennie Maxwell Welch
died at her home in El Reno, Wednesday, March 7.
The remains were brought to Ponca City and laid to rest
in I. O. O. F. Cemetery Friday, March 9.
The funeral sermon was preached by Rev. E. F.
Hill, at the Methodist church, attended by a large crowd
of friends of the deceased, who were there to pay their
last respects to one whom they loved.
Mrs. Welch grew to womanhood in Ponca City,
and was married only a few months ago. She had a
kind disposition and to know her was to respect her.
The grief-stricken husband and the parents have the
sincere sympathy of the community in general.
Card of thanks.--Would you please extend our thanks to
the many friends who so kindly assisted us in the care
and burial of our loved daughter and to our neighbors
who prepared our home in our absence to receive us
and we will say that while the trial seemed at times
more than we could bear the grief was tempered by that
kind acts, and the tears less bitter by those comforting
words we are thankful that it has been our privilege to
live with such good people. Yours in sorrow, Robt.
Maxwell & Isabell Maxwell.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 March 1900
A BAD AFFAIR. Joe Ennis Shot and Killed by
Policeman Seng.--Joe Ennis was shot by Policeman
Seng Saturday night while resisting arrest. Ennis was
recently from Topeka. He was here with his father,
Henry and brothers Frank and Charles. Joe was
arrested on March 6th by Policeman Sheppard, and
fined for drunkenness. Twelve skeleton keys were
taken from him at that time. Saturday he was
intoxicated, and at night with his brothers and father
were creating a disturbance at Kelly's camp yard.
Officers notified them to be quiet, but they paid no
attention. Later the officers returned and attempted to
make arrest. Resistance was made by Ennis people and
the officers were almost over powered. Seng was cut
with an ax in the hands of Joe Ennis, when he shot, ball
going through his side. He died this morning at 1
o'clock, living about twenty four hours. All the Ennis
people are under arrest. The coroner is now holding
inquest. The business of Ennis family here was to
secure lease in Otoe reservation.
Policeman Seng is in bed under the surgeon's care.
He has an ugly cut on the shoulder made by an ax, and
several bad bruises made by a club in one of the Ennis
boys' hands. Policeman Sheppard was over powered by
two the Ennis people, but he was not injured although
they had him thrown to the ground when Seng came to
his assistance. They marched the Ennis gang to the
lock up where they were held until Sunday morning
when they were taken to Newkirk.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 March 1900
The funeral services of Dr. George W. Light were
held this afternoon at the Presbyterian church. Rev. W.
G. Oglevee assisted by Rev. E. F. Hill conducted the
ceremonies. The attendance was much larger than the
church would hold, many remaining outside to pay their
last tribute of respect to a valued friend and citizen at
the grave. The Masonic lodge of which the deceased
was a member was present to assist in the rites. A large
cortege followed the remains to the cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 March 1900
Frank Wallace received a telegram yesterday from
Winfield, saying that his wife, who had recently been
taken to that city for medical treatment was very much
worse, and he at once left for that city.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 March 1900
The Two Statements.--The Courier cheerfully accords
to Henry Ennis, father of the young man killed by
Marshal Seng Saturday night, the hearing to which he is
in fairness entitled. -- A representative of the Courier
called on Mr. Ennis at Kelley's camp house, the scene
of the tragedy, today and below appears a synopsis of
his story. The camp house is a low frame building
about 10 or 12 x 16 feet. Along the entire length of the
south side extends rows of bunks placed one above the
other. Near the extreme west end stands the stove on
the north side and near the east end is a table, and two
or three benches completes the furniture of the room.
"The door was closed" said Mr. Ennis, "When
without any warning it was violently forced open, and
two men appeared. Without any introduction or
statement of purpose, one of them struck my son Chas.
on the head with a revolver, and while attempting to
rise (he) was again beaten down. When the door was
thrown open, I stood against the east end of the bunks
and my son Joe sat on a bench about six feet from me.
As the foremost man struck Chas. the second time, I
grabbed him and threw him partly to the floor, and at
the same time I was knocked down; a second later there
was the flash of a revolver and Joe exclaimed 'I am
shot' the bullet passed almost directly through the body
and embedded itself in the wall about 2 1/2 feet from
the floor. I did not use any ax, razor or club, and saw
none used by any of the occupants of the room. "We
followed the officers peaceable to jail, and would have
done so at any time had they demanded it as officers of
the law."
Policeman Seng stated that he had his usual
midnight lunch and had returned to the streets as was
his custom, and had made his rounds of alleys with
Policeman Shepard. Nothing unusual was seen or
heard of uncommon incident until they neared the
western part of the city, when they heard shouts which
they at first supposed came from some drunken men
leaving the city. Reaching First street they found the
noise came from the Kelley camp house. They went to
the door and told those inside that it was Sunday
morning and that there were sick people in the
neighborhood who would be annoyed by the noise.
They then retired from the house and started across the
street followed by one of the men as far as the middle
of the street. He returned to the camp house, and they
crossed the street to the side walk. They no sooner
reached the walk than the noise was renewed with
greater violence than before. Tin pans were beaten, a
harp played, dancing on the board floor, singing and an
occasional shout was given. They decided that it would
not be right to allow this to continue. They recrossed
the street and opened the door, Seng entered the house
first and Shepard following. They had no sooner
entered than they were assailed by the men inside with
a shovel, a club, a maul, an ax, a razor and fists.
Shepard was thrown and shoved out of the house and to
45
the ground. Seng was struck by a club on the back and
shoulders and sent farther into the room, when he met
Joe Ennis with an ax lifted over his head to strike. In
his own words: "I saw that ax over my head and
thought it was all up, but I got my gun up with my right
hand and put my left up to catch the falling ax. The
blow fell on my arm and shoulder as I shot. I didn't
shoot until I thought they were going to kill me. When
I shot they all fell back and I went to help Shepard. I
saw him on the ground with the big fellow on him and I
knocked him off. Shepard got up and we lined them and
took them to the jail. I then got my wounds dressed.
[The 24 April 1901 Daily Courier reports that Henry
Ennis and his sons were indicted by the grand jury.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 March 1900
William G., the little son of Mr. and Mrs. W. M.
Hall, at the age of four years and three month, died at
their home on south Ninth street Thursday night, March
29th. Rev W. G. Oglevee conducted the funeral
services at the house yesterday afternoon and interment
took place in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery. A large
company of sympathetic friends followed the family on
their sad trip to the grave. This is the second death in
the family in about a year, and they are still passing
through trying times, as the father and one of the
children are sick.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 5 April 1900
Obituary.--Milo R. Barber was born in London, Mass.,
November 12, 1803, and died February 28, 1900, aged
96 years, three months and 16 days.
When but eight years of age he with his parents
moved to Sheldon, Genessee county, New York. He
subsequently went to Green county, New York, and
soon thereafter was united in wedlock with Miss
Miranda O. Butler. This union took place September
15, 1830, and lasted something over fifty-eight years.
To them were born eighteen children, thirteen boys and
five girls, of whom five boys and three girls preceded
him to the other world, as did also his life companion,
who departed from this world of strife eleven years ago.
Since her death Father Barber has frequently expressed
himself by saying that he was ready and willing to go
meet her. Mr. Barber located in this section of Indiana
in the early 40's, and has resided here continuously ever
since. About the year 1812 he became identified with
the Presbyterian church at Franklin, but the society in
time went down which caused him to present his
membership to the Lutheran church at Silver Lake. In
1889 he took a letter and deposited it with the United
Brethren church at Franklin, at which place his name
still remained at his death. Thus another pioneer has
gone to that bourn from which no traveler can return.
What a warning to others that sooner or later we must
all likewise go. The funeral took place at Franklin, was
largely attended and Rev C. J. Miner officiated..-Warsaw, Ind., Indianian.
46
[ Courier note: Mr. Barber was father of our townsman
Milo R. Barber]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 April 1900
Lee Girard, son of John P. Girard, who lives near
Gray Horse, died Sunday and was buried yesterday in
the cemetery near Gray Horse. He was a young man
about 28 years of age and a strength and pride to his
parents. A minister from Pawnee preached the funeral
sermon. The attendance at the funeral was large.
David Hopkins, aged 74 years, died suddenly
yesterday at the home of Ed Woolrey, northwest of this
city. He had left his farm a short time before in
ordinary health. Funeral services were conducted today
at 4 o'clock by F. M. Day. The body will be interred at
a cemetery six miles northwest of Winfield. He leaves
a wife and children to mourn his death.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 April 1900
Drowned.--W. E. Walker was drowned near his home
on Salt Fork about 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon while
seining for fish. He was taken with the cramps, sinking
and nothing has been seen of him since though every
effort to recover his body is being made. A large crowd
went there from town today to assist in dredging the
creek, and if necessary, to use dynamite to bring the
body to the surface.
This is a sad affair, and mores because in his death
he leaves four motherless sons only in the bloom of
youth, to fight the battles of life without the protection
of a parent at the very time they need one.
[Though the initials printed here were W. E. Walker,
the Cemetery Inscriptions of Kay County, Oklahoma,
and news articles below show his initials as C. E.
Walker.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 April 1900
The remains of C. E. Walker were brought to his
city Sunday from the Salt Fork river where the body
was recovered from the water Saturday. The funeral
occurred yesterday at his residence now occupied by
James B. Ballagher of the Courier force.
Mrs. C. E. Walker arrived Sunday night from her
home in Missouri in response to a telegram announcing
the death of her husband who was drowned Friday
Afternoon. She will remain here and care for her four
boys whom the Courier mentioned last Friday as being
motherless. She will send later for her little eight year
old daughter. The circumstances familiar to the family
are sad, indeed, and others acquainted with the
surroundings are in deep sympathy with the bereaved
relatives
from the Ponca City Democrat, 27 April 1900
Died--On Friday, April 20, 1900, W. (sic) E.
Walker, by drowning. Deceased, in company with
several others, was seining in the Salt Fork and it is
supposed that he was taken with cramps and, as his
comrades were unable to assist him, he was drowned.
There are numerous stories about the accident,
however, the above appears to have the most support.
The body was not recovered until Saturday morning at
about 2 o'clock. The wife of the deceased was
telegraphed and she arrived Sunday night. It appears
that Mr. Walker's affairs were considerably mixed, as
there are two claimants for a residence he occupied
while in town, and the case will probably have to go to
court for adjudication. Deceased, besides a wife, leaves
five children. The funeral was held Monday afternoon.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 3 May 1900
Obituary.--Died, at his home in Osage reservation,
twenty five miles southeast of Ponca City, April 25,
Samuel S. Countryman, of hemorrhage of the kidneys.
Mr. Countryman was born in Somerset county,
Pennsylvania, May 2, 1837, and was married to Dinah
S. Walker, September 8, 1859, at Berlin, Pennsylvania.
His wife and eleven children are left to mourn his
death, seven being present at his death bed, four sons
being unable to attend, three living in Nebraska and one
in Washington.
Mr. Countryman has been afflicted about a year,
but nothing serious was thought of it until a short time
ago. All that kind hands and medical skill could do was
done to relieve him, but to no avail. He was a good
citizen, honest and prompt in the discharge of all
business obligations, a kind husband father, faithful in
all the relations of life. After brief services at the
residence the body was laid to rest on Thursday
afternoon in Pawnee county.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 3 May 1900
Died, April 15th, 1900 Leroy, only son of J. P. and R.
A. Girard, aged 24 years, 6 months and 24 days, after a
sickness of two weeks of pneumonia, during which
every care was taken to save him, but with no avail.
God called and he went to that higher world, where
sickness and sorrow is no more, leaving behind many
friends and loved ones to mourn his loss. Lee was a
kind and loving boy, and loved by all who know him.
Funeral services were held by Rev. Morgan, of Pawnee,
and a large number of sorrowing friends followed the
remains to their last resting place in the Gray Horse
cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 May 1900
A FATAL RAILROAD ACCIDENT. D. Mapes run
Down by an Engine Last Night. -- The Hutchinson
branch train ran over and killed D. Mapes at 8 o'clock
last night as it was moving out onto the main track near
the Santa Fe depot. Mapes was a miller who had been
at work for the Ponca City Milling Co. for about a
month, coming from Arkansas City, but he would never
talk a word about himself.
Mapes called at the mill office about seven o'clock
last night, and drew $4 with which to pay a board bill,
but he said nothing about quitting work. The next seen
he was trying to board the Santa Fe train for Arkansas
City, a big telescope in hand. The train was moving too
fast and he then walked along the track and when near
the engine of the branch train he was suddenly seen in
front of the engine. The whistle was sounded and the
engine reversed. But the front wheel passed over the
right leg close [to] the body and death was
instantaneous.
Coroner Dunn was notified and had the body
removed to J. M. Hayden's undertaking establishment,
where an inquest is being held today. The wife of the
deceased is related to the family of O. J. Stowell, and
she has telegraphed Coroner Dunn that she will be here
tomorrow from Jacksonville, Ill., and take charge of the
remains. Mapes was about 60 years old and was not
intoxicated at the time of the accident. At the time of
going to press the inquest had not been completed.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 May 1900
Obituary.--Eveline Lorain Fearnow was born in
Macoupin county Ills. March 12, 1882. She died at
home two miles west of Ponca City, May 12, 1900.
Eva had been failing for two years, a victim to that
dread disease, consumption. Her parents spared no
pains nor expense in their efforts to restore her health.
Last summer she went to Berkely Springs, Va., and
later on her mother went with her and her brother
Divinia [Devinie--see his obituary May 17, 1900], who
is now suffering with the same disease, to Colorado,
neither place affording relief. A few weeks ago they
returned to their home having given up all hope of
recovery.
She passed away peacefully Saturday
morning.
Although so young, Eva had many of the traits of a
mature woman, and her loss in the family will be
keenly felt. She had lived a life of great cheerfulness,
and lost none of her happy disposition by the approach
of death. Long ago she gave her heart to Christ, and
lived a consistent life.
The funeral services were held in the Presbyterian
church yesterday afternoon, where a large gathering of
friends met to show their respect and sympathy.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 17 May 1900
Last Thursday night about 8 o'clock there was a
sad railroad accident near the Santa Fe depot. D.
Mapes who has been working for the Ponca City
Milling company was run over by the Hutchison &
Southern passenger engine and instantly killed. Mapes
was a queer character and no one knew very much of
his past life and he never talked of it. Coroner Dunn
was notified of the accident and the body was removed
to Hayden's undertaking establishment, where an
inquest was held and rendered the usual verdict in such
cases.
47
from the Ponca City Democrat, 17 May 1900
Died.--Thursday morning, May 17, at 5 o'clock,
Harriett A. Florer, aged 85 years and 11 days.
Funeral services were conducted at the home of her
daughter, Mrs. T. M. Finney at 4 p. m. this afternoon,
by Rev. Ogelvee of Perry, and the remains taken to
Lawrence, Kansas, for interment. Grandma Florer was
well known in this city and surrounding country. She
was universally loved by all who knew her. Four
children, eleven grand children and seven great grand
children survive her.
opened them in Glory. Oh, it is sweet she closed her
eyes forever. But, blessed by God, she has a grander
vision today than she ever had before. We would give
our all if we could have but one glimpse of what she
now looks on. She no longer looks through a glass
darkly, but she sees face to face Blessed privilege.
Funeral services were conducted at the home of her
daughter in this city at 4 o'clock this afternoon. The
remains will be taken to Lawrence, Kan., for interment.
As Rev W. G. Oglevee was absent from the city, the
services were conducted by his brother from Perry.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 May 1900
Death of Grandma Florer.--Harriett A. Whittemore
[Florer]was born at Catskill, N. Y. May 6, 1815, and
died at the home of her daughter. Mrs. N. M. Finney in
this city this morning at half past five o'clock, being 85
years and 11 days of age.
She was married to John A. Florer at Ripley, Ohio,
in 1838. From this union were born five children. One
of them, a son died in infancy. Those surviving their
mother are: Mrs. E. M. McCague of South McAlester,
I. T., Mrs. George Packard of Portland, Me., John N.
Florer of Grey Horse, I. T. and Mrs. N. Finney of Ponca
City. There are eleven grandchildren and seven great
grand children. Her husband died in 1853.
Grandma Florer united with the Presbyterian
church at Ripley, Ohio when a girl, the Rev. John
Rankin being her first pastor. She was afterwards a
member of the Rev. Dr., Lyman Beecher's church of
Cincinnati.
Her last membership was with the
Congregational church of Lawrence, Kansas, of which
the Rev. Dr. Cordley is pastor.
Grandma Florer has gone to her reward. This same
call has come to men in all ages and it comes to us one
by one. The grave opens before every one of us. As
we approach its threshold, our path grows more
solitary. At four score years and five, the ranks have
become very thin and few remain to keep us company.
One such friend remained to the departed. Grandma
Smith of Perry, her life long friend was here only last
week to visit and talk over the days of their girlhood.
Their visit together is one of the pleasant remembrances
of her closing life on earth.
Grandma Florer retained her mental faculties to the
very end. The great work of a noble life is to end it
well and help others. This noble saint ended her life in
glorious triumph. As for her works of helpfulness to
others they are legion who [unreadable text] good deeds
and fine Christian spirit. Her faith in Christ was such as
to give her great evenness of temper and gentleness of
disposition. Unkind words were unknown to her. As
for worrying she never allowed it a place in her mind
and heart. As regards self, her constant thought was for
happiness and comfort of others.
She was faithful to the end, though a long and
useful life; and she is with her blessed Savior. She
calmly closed her eyes in sleep this morning and
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 May 1900
Devinie Fearnow Dead.--Devinie Fearnow, son of Mr.
and Mrs. J. R. Fearnow, passed away peacefully last
night at 11:30, after a lingering illness with
consumption, aged 22 years and two months. Until a
comparatively few short months ago, Devinie had been
strong and a vital young man, the joy of his parents and
the pride of his brothers, sisters and friends. He was a
favorite among his acquaintances, who esteemed him
highly for his many good qualities. He grew to
manhood here, strong and healthy until consumption
fastened it hold upon him. Gradually he failed in health
and broken in spirit until it seemed certain that life held
only a short tenure for him. Through it all he was
patient and thoughtful for those who were using every
means to call him back to his wonted state of health.
He was taken to Colorado with the hope that the high
climate would be a benefit to him, but it was of no
avail. He was brought home to die.
The funeral services will be conducted at the
Presbyterian church on Saturday at 1 o'clock p. m.
General sympathy is extended to the bereaved
family in their double affliction.
48
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 June 1900
O. D. Botkin Dead.--O. D. Botkin passed peacefully
away a few days since at his home near Gray Horse,
aged 64 years. He has not been seriously sick long, but
his age told upon him and he succumbed to the disease
which had fastened its hold up on him. He was a large
man in flesh and in the goodness of his heart. His
friends were numbered by his acquaintances. He leaves
a wife and several grown children to mourn his death.
Mr. Botkin was a brother of Congressman Botkin and
was related to influential men of Kansas. In his prime
he was a forceful and leading spirit in the communities
in which he resided.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 21 June 1900
Frank McClung Dead.--Frank McClung, well known
in Ponca City and vicinity, died Sunday morning last, at
4 o'clock. Deceased had been ailing for some time and
was under the care of a physician. Saturday morning he
went to the Jeffries Indian lease five miles south of
Blackwell to assist a neighbor with his harvesting.
About 2 o'clock in the afternoon he was fixing the
mower when he had a stroke of paralysis or sunstroke
and fell to the ground unconscious.
He was taken care of and a physician sent for, but
he was beyond medical skill and expired the following
morning without ever gaining consciousness. The
remains were taken to Winfield, Kansas and buried in
the Mt. Vernon cemetery.
Deceased was 45 years of age. He leaves three
children, one son here and a son and married daughter
in Virginia to mourn his loss. He was a brother of
Charley McClung who was killed by the train here last
summer, and a cousin to Kyle McClung of Round
Grove township. Frank was a splendid young man,
well liked by all his acquaintances who will greatly
miss him.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 19 July 1900
Died--July 11, 1900, at her home in Newkirk, of
inflammation of the stomach, aged 61 years, Mrs.
Melvina Hollaway, wife of J. M. Hollaway.
The funeral services were held at the residence of
P. C. Hollaway, in Arkansas City, July 12, and the
remains laid to rest in the Riverview cemetery in the
family lot. Deceased had been sick for about three
weeks and at the time of her death all her children and
grand children were with her except Fred Holloway
son of C. H. Hollaway of this city. She leaves five
children to mourn her loss. They are C. H. Hollaway,
of this city, P. C. Hollaway, of Arkansas City, Mrs.
Deck Aurine and Mrs. Keeney of Newkirk, and Mrs.
Laura Sheeley of Ottowa, Kansas. They have the
sincere sympathy of their friends and acquaintances.
Malvina (sic) Smith was born near Louisville,
Kentucky, November 23, 1839 and moved with her
parents to Illinois in 1854 and was married to J. M.
Hollaway in 1857. They moved to Kansas in 1871
where they resided until 1893 when they came to
Oklahoma. Deceased joined the Christian church at the
age of 16 and remained a devout church member and at
the age of 51 embraced the religion and became a
follower of the Church of Christ (science). She was a
good and kind true hearted mother and loving
companion to her husband through life.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 August 1900
Obituary.--George L. Maple was born in Rush county,
Indiana, August 12, 1828 and died in Ponca City,
Oklahoma, August 14, 1900, at the age of 72 years and
2 days.
His father and grandfather were among the very
first who left Kentucky to take up government land in
Indiana. He lived in the home county until six years
ago, when he came west to visit his son, Ezra Maple of
this city, and was so much pleased with the country that
he stayed and made it his home. His three sisters and
brother still live near the old home, his being the first
death in the family, and he being the only one in the
whole connection buried west of the Mississippi. He
has two sons living, Ezar Maple, of this city, and Arthur
Maple, of Boone County, Indiana. Besides these, he
leaves his widow to mourn his loss.
In his younger days he was a very successful
business man, having been worth a large fortune at one
time when he was noted for his generosity to the poor
and needy. He was possessed of great will power,
which did not fail him to the end, and even at his
advanced age he conducted a very successful business
since coming here. He was honored by a large circle of
friends and stood high in business circles. He was been
a member of the Presbyterian church the greater part of
his life.
Funeral services were conducted at his late home
on First street this afternoon by the pastor of the
Presbyterian church, and the remains were followed to
the cemetery by a large number of friends.
[This same obituary was published in the Ponca City
Democrat, 16 August 1900.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 16 August 1900
The three year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mart
Chadwell died yesterday. The funeral will take place
today.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 16 August 1900
Tuesday afternoon at 1 o'clock the spirit of George
L. Maple took its flight to the world unknown. for
some time Mr. Maple has been a sufferer from catarrh
of the stomach which finally ended in his death at the
age of 72 years. Rev. Ogelvee conducted the funeral
services yesterday afternoon at the deceased residence
after which a cortege of sorrowing relatives and friends
followed the remains to their last resting place in the
Odd Fellows cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 23 August 1900
Monday occurred the death of the little seven year
old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hobbs. She had
been sick about three weeks with typhoid fever and the
last two weeks of her illness was unconscious. The
remains were interred in the Odd Fellows cemetery.
Mr. Hobbs is the Grey Horse mail carrier and he and his
wife have the sympathy of the community in their sad
bereavement.
J. H. Dwyer, a pioneer of this country, and
prominent business man of Ponca City, died at his
home on south First street Friday night of diphtheria.
He was sick but two or three days and at the time of his
death was 44 years of age. Besides other relatives he
leaves a wife and one child, a boy. In the death of Mr.
Dwyer Ponca City loses one of its most respected
citizens.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 30 August 1900
KILLED HIS GRANDMOTHER. Shot at His Step
Father But Killed His grandmother.--Fred Woods, the
49
little son of Rosa Strikeax, shot and instantly killed his
aged grandmother, Mary wife of Wah-no-pah-she,
Sunday morning of the 19th at the Indian camp north of
Pawhuska, the deadly weapon being a 22 caliber target
rifle. The ball penetrated just above left eye and death
was instantaneous.
There had been trouble in the Strikeax-Wah-nopah-she family a few moment previous to the shooting
in which Pendleton Strikeax administered a whipping
upon his wife, young Wood's mother by a former
husband. Frank secured the gun and sought to avenge
his mother's troubles by shooting Strikeax but the bullet
went wide its mark and struck his grandmother with
fatal results.
The boy is but eight or nine years of age but has
the reputation of being one of the worst boys of his age
in the tribe and does not seem to be worried over the
matter. His case will be a very interesting one.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 September 1900
Colonel D. F. Stiles Dead.--Col. D. F. Stiles died
yesterday morning at his home in Oklahoma City after
a short illness with inflammation of the bowels. He
leaves a wife and two sons, George and Charlie, to
mourn his death.
Col. Stiles was a native of Massachusetts, born in
1841. He was a veteran of the civil war, and held
offices of lieutenant and captain in the services of his
country. During the opening of old Oklahoma he was
provost marshal at Oklahoma City and executed the
functions of that onerous office with admirable fidelity.
He was identified for several years with large property
interests in Oklahoma City. At the opening of the
Cherokee outlet he located the claim which became a
part of the town site of Ponca City. After two or three
years contest he won and at the time of his death, has
disposed of a greater part of the land to lot claimants.
He was a man of fine character; upright and
incorruptible. His death is an irreparable loss to his
devoted family and large circle of friends.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 September 1900
Obituary.--Arthur Gid Richey, infant son of Mr. and
Mrs. Homer Richey, was born Nov. 3, 1898, died Sept
2, 1900. Little Arthur was far more than an ordinary
child. He was too bright and pure for this world, so
Jesus took him unto himself. How hard was it to give
little Arthur up, but god knows best. It may be that he
has suffered little children to come unto Him, that
Heaven may indeed be the kingdom of Heaven. Weep
not, fond parents, little Arthur has gone to be with
Jesus.
Funeral services were held at the home of Mr.
Richey, conducted by Rev Oglevee and interment took
place at the Longwood cemetery. This lovely bud, so
good and fair, Called hence by early doom. Come just
to show how bright a flower; Could bloom in Paradise.
A Friend--L.S.
50
from the Ponca City Democrat, 13 September 1900
Death of Captain Stiles. Oklahoma City, Sept. 11-Captain Daniel F. Stiles died at 7 o'clock this morning
of inflammation of the bowels, after a few days illness.
He was not considered in a dangerous condition until a
day or two ago, and an operation was performed
without avail.
Captain Stiles, who was 59 years of age was born
in Massachusetts. He entered the volunteer army in
1861 from the District of Columbia and served through
the civil war. He was commissioned second lieutenant
in the 23 infantry in 1867 first lieutenant. During the
early 70's he was stationed in Oklahoma at Fort Sill and
Reno. In 1889 he was transferred from Colorado to
Oklahoma City, where he acted as provost marshall
during the trying times incident to the opening. In 1893
he retired from active service, since which time he has
made his home here. [Paper is torn and paragraph
unreadable except for very few words.] He leaves a
widow and two grown sons, George, the older being in
Colorado, and did not reach the bedside before death
came.
[In the 15 September 1900 edition of the Ponca City
Daily Courier it is mentioned that "Mrs. D. F. Stiles and
son, George, are here from Oklahoma City, looking
after their interests. They are supervising the work on
the new building which was started by Colonel Stiles
before his death."]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 September 1900
Asa Staley Dead.--Asa Staley, an old soldier who lived
on North First street died this morning after a long
illness with dropsy. He was 77 years old. His funeral
services were held at the home and at the cemetery.
Short services were conducted at 4 o'clock by Rev. E.
F. Hill at the family residence. The G. A. R. took an
active part in the last rites, although he was not a
member of the organization.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 September 1900
On Thursday night Edgar Miller, who has been
visiting his cousins, the Miller Brothers, in the Osage
country, was taken suddenly ill and died before medical
aid could reach him. His trouble was consumption.
The body was embalmed and last night was
accompanied to his home in Nebraska by his uncle, J.
P. Miller. Edgar had been in and around Ponca City for
about three weeks.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 September 1900
Al Baker killed. As the result of a practical joke, Al
Baker [mis-print, victim's name was J. A. Bishop] lies
dead at his home in this city. He, with others, at Tonk
Smith's Kaw ranch had organized a kangaroo court, and
were in the habit of trying offenders of the laws they
created. There was considerable fun, in a rough way,
for the men in the play, but they at last chose the wrong
victim. He revolted from the execution of the sentence
and in the encounter which followed Bishop was
seriously hurt. He was brought to his home here, where
he died yesterday, another victim of the practical
"joke."
from the Ponca City Democrat, 27 September 1900
Kangaroo Court.--As a result of a Kangaroo court, J. A.
Bishop lost his life on day last week, from a wound
received on the back of the head with a club. The
killing occurred at the cattle ranch of W. F. Smith, in
the Osage reservation. For some time past the boys at
the ranch have been holding kangaroo court and making
the victim treat or take a "licking." "Big Jack" Monroe
acted as high sheriff for a long time and plied the lash
to the victims. A change was made in that office and
"Big Jack" was arrested, but he resisted the treatment
which resulted in a bad feeling between himself and
Bishop, finally winding up in Monroe killing Bishop by
hitting him over the head with a club.
The coroner's jury found Monroe guilty of murder
in the first degree. He left soon after hitting Bishop,
and the U. S. marshal is after him with a warrant.
The funeral services of Mr. Bishop were held at the
M. E. church Tuesday of this week, conducted by the
pastor, Rev. E. F. Hill, and the remains laid to rest in
the Odd Fellows cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 September 1900
Death of Private McQuirk.--Through the war
department Thomas McQuirk has received official
report of the incident in which his son, Michael J.
[McQuirk] lost his life. The official document is as
follows:
Cagayan de Misomis, P. I. July 18, 1900. Mr. Thos.
McQuirk, Ponca City, Okla. Dear Sir: It is my painful
duty to inform you of the death of Michael J. McQuirk
on the morning of June 14, 1900, and while so doing, I
wish to express by sorrow, and extend to you, and
others of his family, my heartfelt sympathy, and that of
his comrades in the line. He was an upright man, a
staunch friend, and a brave, conscientious soldier, and
at the time of his untimely demise, was in the direct line
of promotion. He died as a soldier should, bravely
fighting.
About 100 or our men attempted to capture an
insurgent stronghold at Baysuga, ten miles south of this
post, which was defended by a large force hidden
completely from our sight. They held an almost
impregnable position, and we were surprised, forced to
retreat from the narrow mountain defile, leaving a
number on the field--among whom was Private
McQuirk. We have been informed, however, that his
remains were decently interred by the insurgents, but no
effort will be spared to recover and give them burial
here, with all military honors.
An inventory of the effects and final statements of
the pay and clothing accounts of the deceased, have
been forwarded to the Adjutant General of the army.
Again expressing my heartfelt sympathy, I remain
very respectfully, Locklin W. Chaffey, 2nd Lieut., 40th
Infantry, U. S. A., Commanding Company "M."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 October 1900
Edna Robinson Dead. After a short illness with scarlet
fever Edna Robinson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. M.
Robinson, passed away this morning, aged eleven
years. She was thought to be improving until last night
the disease took a sudden turn for the worse, and in
spite of all that loving care could do terminated in
death. Edna was a favorite with her little associates and
with everyone who knew her, on account of her
companionable ways. Her death is a shock to everyone
and the bereaved parents have the deepest sympathy of
the community in her untimely death. The body will be
taken to Wellington, Kansas, tomorrow for interment.
The school which she had been attending was
dismissed this afternoon as a mark of respect to the
young life which has gone from its midst.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 September 1900
J. G. Gillen Poisoned.--The Courier received word this
morning that J. G. Gillen was near death's door at
Webb City, Mo, as the result of a careless drug clerk
there. He took a prescription which he had been using
to a drug store, had it filled and took the usual dose. In
a few moments he was in severe convulsions, and it
was though for an entire night that he could not be
saved.
Mr. Gillen was an early settler in Ponca City and
has hosts of friends here who will be pained to hear of
his illness. He is now manager of a large lumber
concern at Webb city.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 October 1900
A Card of Thanks. We desire to express our sincere
thanks to friends and neighbors who so kindly assisted
us during the sickness and death of our dear daughter,
Edna, also for the beautiful floral offerings. Mr. and
Mrs. E. M. Robinson
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 October 1900
HUGH B. OWEN DEAD. A Prominent Pioneer Passes
Away Suddenly.--Hugh B. Owen died at his home in
this city Saturday evening, October 27, 1900 at 6
o'clock, aged 43 years, 8 months and 15 days.
The news of his death came as an intense surprise.
He was always a rugged strong man and one to whom
the promise of a long life seemed certain to be fulfilled.
The funeral services were held at the Presbyterian
church Revs. Craighead of Blackwell, and C. Monroe
of Tonkawa, in the absence of the local pastors
conducted the ceremony. The Masons of which order
he was a member, were in charge of the last rites over
the remains of their deceased brother. Many of the
stores closed out of respect to the dead, and the schools
were dismissed for the entire day. Many prominent
51
people from Kildare, Newkirk, Blackwell and Tonkawa
were here to attend the funeral. The body was followed
to its last resting place in the Odd Fellows cemetery by
a large concourse of friends. At the cemetery the
solemn and impressive rites of Masonry were
exemplified as their brother was laid to rest.
Mr. Owen was born in Iowa county, Iowa where
his youth was passed and his education attained. He
moved to Audubon county and resided there for a
number of years. There he was engaged in farming,
real estate business and in bridge building. At the
opening of the Cherokee outlet he took up a claim east
of Kildare and resided there for a few years, then took
up his residence in Ponca City. He has been called at
various times to represent his party and the people in
offices of trust and in his transaction of such business
made many friends and supporters. At the time of this
death he was chairman of the city school board and was
the nominee of his party for the office of representative
for the second legislative district of Oklahoma. He was
loved and respected by many friends to whom his death
brings the deepest sorrow.
About twenty years ago he was joined in wedlock
to Miss Lena Stahl. The wife and five children, three
girls and two boys, survive him, to whom the most
heartfelt condolences of this community are extended.
The number who attended the funeral to pay their
last respects to their friend and neighbor was probably
greater than any funeral ever held in Kay county. It
was estimated to be way up in the hundreds.
Frank Owen, of North English, Iowa, a brother of
the deceased was the only relative present, aside from
the family. He arrived this morning in response to a
telegram announcing the sudden death of his brother.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 November 1900
Hugh Owens Dead. One of Our Most Prominent and
Respected Citizens Passes Away.--Died--at his home in
Ponca City, Saturday evening, October 27, 1900, at 5
o'clock p. m., Hugh B. Owen, aged 43 years, 8 months
and 15 days.
The sad news of his death was received by the
people of Ponca City and Kay County in general with
profound sorrow. Mr. Owen had been sick only about
ten days and was not considered dangerously ill. He
had been out campaigning and came home feeling bad,
and going to bed for a day or so, got up and sat around
the house; he was taken worse and again sought his
bed, from which he never again arose. He was a
powerful man physically, and apparently had a long
lease of life.
The funeral services were held at the Presbyterian
church, conducted by Rev. Craighead, of Blackwell,
and Rev. Monroe, of this city. The church was
inadequate to hold the large crowd of friends who
desired to be present at the last sad rites of a loyal
friend and neighbor, and hundreds were standing on the
outside.
52
He was followed to his last resting place, the Odd
fellows Cemetery, by the Masonic, Odd fellows and
Rebekah orders of which he was a member, and
hundreds of sympathizing friends, from all over the
county. The services at the cemetery were conducted
by the Masonic Order in an impressing manner. The
business houses of the town were closed, some of them
all day, in honor and respect for the dead, and the
funeral procession was the largest ever witnessed in the
county.
Hugh Owen was a man loved and respected by all
who knew him. He was ever ready to lend a helping
hand to those in need. He was a kind and loving
husband and father, a good neighbor and citizen.
The Democrat joins with the friends of the family
in extending their sincere sympathy in their sad hour of
bereavement.
Hugh B. Owen was born near North English, Iowa
County, Iowa, December 16, 1857, and was married to
Miss Lena Stahl of Millersburg, Iowa, March 31, 1882.
Soon after his marriage he moved to Audubon, Iowa,
where he engaged in farming, bridge building and the
real estate business, In 1893 he came to Oklahoma and
settled on a claim in Waltham township where he
remained until about three years ago, when he moved to
Ponca City. Since coming to Oklahoma Mr. Owen has
been honored by his party, (Democratic), by many
offices of trust and has always conducted them in an
honorable and efficient manner, and won the esteem of
everybody. At the time of his death he was president of
the Ponca City School Board, and candidate for
member of the lower house of the Oklahoma
Legislature on the fusion ticket.
Deceased leaves a family of five children, two boys
and three girls; the oldest is a girl 17 years of age, and
the youngest a boy 6 years of age. His parents are
living at North English, Iowa, his father, aged 83 years
and his mother 70 years of age. He has five brothers
and one sister living. One brother is in South Africa
and another is a missionary in China. Frank Owen, of
North English, Iowa, was the only relative present,
except the family.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 November 1900
Mrs. Hagaman Dead.--Mrs. Alice Hagaman died
Saturday morning at her home near Bliss, aged 19 years
11 months and 23 days.
Mrs. Hagaman was born in Decatur county, Iowa,
and moved to Kansas in early youth. She was married
in 1897 and moved to the territory where she has since
resided. Mrs. Hagaman joined the M. E. church at
LeRoy, Kansas at the age of 13 years.
The funeral was conducted at the Ponca City
cemetery by Rev. E. F. Hill on Sunday afternoon.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 December 1900
Death.--Died, December, 1900, of pneumonia fever, at
his residence, five miles east of this city, after a very
short illness, Simeon L. McQuiston, age 52 years, 4
months and 17 days. He was born in the state of
Pennsylvania on 25th day of August, 1838 and was
married January 27, 1878, to Mary H. Hunt, who with
five children he leaves to mourn his sad loss.
Mr. McQuiston was a kind and loving husband and
father, a good citizen and neighbor, and in his death it
can truly be said the community has lost a man.
To the bereaved family and relatives we extend our
most sincere sympathy and condolence.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 December 1900
W. L. Barnum received a telegram yesterday from
El Paso, Texas, announcing the death of his only
brother, Ed [Barnum], who died from consumption.
W. L. left on the evening train to be present at the
funeral. His brother was in Ponca City all summer and
was married here. A letter from a short time ago
announced that he was getting better, and the sudden
death was a surprise.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 December 1900
Clara Evilyne, three year old daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. H. T. Cales, died this morning of croup, at their
home five miles west of Ponca City. The interment will
take place at the city cemetery tomorrow afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 December 1900
Obituary. Died, Monday December 3d., Clara, the
beloved daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry T. Cales.
Born January 21, 1898; Died December 3, 1900 aged 2
years 9 months and 12 days.
When the angels in Heaven call
Our little ones so dear,
What a balm to our hearts riven
What a joy to dry our tear
To see them point to heaven
"See, Papa, see, so sweet and clear."
The bereaved parents have the heartfelt sympathy of
their many friends and relatives.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 December 1900
The death of Simon L. McQuiston in Longwood
township, was very sudden. He was afflicted with
consumption and was also suffering with a sever cold.
To make this worse he fell into a pond of water and was
wet from head to foot with nearly ice cold water. This
shock was too severe for him to recover in his
weakened condition, and death followed in a few days.
It was only about a week ago that he was in the city,
and his death seems very sudden. The family, ill
prepared to sustain such a loss, has the sincere
sympathy of their acquaintances.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 December 1900
Job Hoffmyer died early Sunday morning at his
residence eight miles northwest of the city, of
pneumonia, after an illness of about ten days. The
funeral is being held today at Excelsior and interment at
the city cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 December 1900
Resolutions of Condolence. The following resolutions
on the death of Sylvester Flitch were adopted by Ponca
City Lodge No. 18, A. F. and A. M. Whereas, it has
been the will and pleasure of the Supreme Architect of
the Universe to remove our worthy brother, Sylvester
Flitch, from our earthly lodge here below to the
celestial lodge above; and Whereas, in the death of our
lamented brother the Masonic fraternity has lost a
worthy brother, our community a just and upright
citizen, the widow a devoted and true husband and the
children an indulgent father, therefore be it resolved:
That while we bow in humble submission to the will of
the Supreme Grand Master, who doeth all things well,
we deeply mourn the loss of our departed brother, and
extend to the beloved family our heartfelt sympathy in
their time of sorrow. December 22, 1900. James
Hutchinson, O. F Keck. F. Dunham.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 December 1900
A Suicide.--A man about 45 years old has been hanging
about the saloons and feed yards several days trading
horses and drinking some. He brought two horses and
saddles from Grayhorse and had a few dollars which he
earned by husking corn near Grayhorse. Monday
morning Bob Mathis saw him swallow a dose of
poison. The officers found him, took him to a room at
Kate Ryan's restaurant and called a doctor. But the man
died this Christmas morning at 8 o'clock.
From notes he wrote his name seems to be Marve
Rundle. He directed a letter to his niece, Mrs. Etta
Yost, 1510 Broadway, Kansas City, and one to Jas.
Gow, Grayhorse, Oklahoma. In the note to Gow he
requested him to "write to Nashville and let them
know." He tells about a saddle horse "at the red barn;"
which he wants Gow to have.
An inquest is being held and Marshal Shepard has
wired his niece at Kansas City the facts, and await a
reply before burying the body. [There is much
confusion in news stories that follow concerning the
identity of the deceased. It was thought for a time his
name was George K. Rundle, but ultimately the
deceased was found to be Marvin Rundle.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 December 1900
More of the suicide.--The body of the suicide, Rundle
was shipped to his friends at Kansas City last night.
Today Chief Shepard received letters from there
showing that his name was George K. Rundle instead
of Marv Rundle, as he signed the notes he wrote after
taking the fatal dose. It now develops that he has a son
in Kansas City and that he was a printer and a member
of the typographical union No. 80 of Kansas City.
Chief Shepard will send the full particulars to his son.
53
It now develops that when Rundle went to the Oak Hall
he was suffering from the poison, and before he had
finished writing he was suffering from the first stages
of death spasms. Bob Mathis says he drank nothing
whatever while there, and the empty bottle from which
he had drank the chloral was found in his pocket when
the doctors removed him.
Later.--Telegrams to Chief Shepard and the
Courier say the body was received early today, and
proves not be by George K. Rundle, and his wife is
afraid there is something crooked.
There is something very queer about the case. The
dead man sat at a table in the Oak Hall, wrote notes,
directed and sealed them. One of the envelopes prove
to be addressed to "Mrs. Etta Yost, 1510 Broadway,
Kansas City," and contained a brief note that he was
tired of life. It was written to My Dear Niece," and
signed "Uncle Marv," It said nothing about a wife or
other members of his family.
Chief Shepard wired "Mrs. Etta Yost" and a quick
reply asked if dead man had "G. K. R." tattooed on his
left arm. Shepard found "G. W. R." and so replied and
money was sent last night the officials here rejoicing
that the body of the unfortunate was to [be] buried by
friends.
There is absolutely nothing known here not stated
in the Courier. It is very evident that if the body is not
that of George K. Rundle, it is a Rundle who is
acquainted with and a relative of the man they took him
to be.
Later.--It developed at 4 o'clock this afternoon that
the coroner took a typographical union working card
from the body showing his name to Geo. K. Rundle.
Nobody has known of this card until today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 December 1900
Earnest, the seven year old son of Mr. and Mrs.
Edward Howell, died this morning of croup. funeral
will be held at the family residence tomorrow at 10.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 27 December 1900
Printer suicides.--Geo. K. Rundle, a printer, committed
suicide Christmas morning in this city by taking
chloral. when the body was taken in charge by the
coroner, two letters were found on his person, written
by himself, one addressed to his niece, Miss Etta Yost,
No. 1510 Broadway, Kansas City, Mo., the other to
James Gow, at Grayhorse, O. T. He belonged to
typographical Union, No. 80 of Kansas city, and carried
a working card from that union.
Telegrams were sent to his niece in Kansas City by
Chief Sheperd, who was directed to send the remains to
Kansas City which was done. Yesterday Mr. Sheperd
received a telegram from Miss Yost saying, the corpse
had arrived, but it was not the man they thought it was.
Chief Shepherd has all the telegrams and from them it
is difficult to understand how a mistake could have
been made. The tattoo marks, the union card in his
54
possession, and everything proves him to be the right
man.
Later:--The remains shipped to Kansas city proved
to be Marvin Rundle, a brother to Geo. K. He came in
possession of the Typographical Union card while
visiting his brother last summer. Marvin was an old
bachelor and has besides George, two brothers living in
Nashville, Tenn.
Payment has been stopped on the draft sent here for
the casket, and Mr. Hayden is out about $20.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 January 1901
The tiny baby boy of Mr. and Mr. Alex Rhodes,
born Tuesday, died yesterday and is being buried this
afternoon, Rev. Oglevee officiating.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 January 1901
George F. Herriott died of heart disease in St.
Louis Last night. He owned one of the quarter sections
north of the city, which cost him over $10,000 when he
was through all the contests. He owned property at
Guthrie and was a prominent G. A. R. Member and
well known all over Oklahoma.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 January 1901
Held for Murder.--Chief Shepart arrested a man
passing under the name of Billy Murrow yesterday in
Ponca City. His step father, Peter Smith, died Sunday
morning in the Otoe country under very suspicious
circumstances. A few months ago it was claimed the
old man came near dying at the hands of Murrow. It
was reported Smith died in an apoplectic fit. After he
had been buried, Murrow went to the agency physician
and wanted a death certificate, "just to clear me with the
folks back in Chicago," he claimed.
Chief Shepard visited the Otoe agency last night
and finds a general sentiment that Murrow got away
with his old step-father, and in a very bungling fashion
at that, at least he will be held pending developments.
The Chicago authorities have been notified.
Later:--Chief Shepard received a message from
Perry asking him to hold the party arrested. An officer
is aboard the local coming with a warrant for him. The
catch seems to be a good one. Murrow has broken
down this afternoon, but has not told his story of the
crime.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 January 1901
Sudden Death.--A. B. Shaddon, for twenty years
bookkeeper for John N. Florer of Grayhorse, dropped
dead of heart trouble yesterday at noon. He had just
eaten dinner and was talking to Mr. Florer a moment
when he expired without a moment's sickness.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 January 1901
"Cocaine" Annie, whose name is unknown, but
who came here over a year ago from Galveston, died
last night and was buried today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 January 1901
Death of Elbert W. Hoyt.--Elbert W. Hoyt died at 5
o'clock his morning, after ten day illness from
pneumonia. He was born at Warsaw, N. Y. Nov 29,
1866 and resided there till he was fifteen when be came
to Lyons, Kansas, with his parents.
He was a newsboy at Warsaw and finished the
printers trade at Lyons. He was city editor of the Lyons
Tribune at eighteen and editor and owner of that paper
at twenty. He disposed of the Tribune and good will in
1893 and brought his printing office to the strip. he
began the publication of the Weekly Courier in October
1893 and the Daily Courier October 4, 1897.
He leaves a wife and son, Harold, five years old,
also his father, A. W. Hoyt and brother, Frank E. both
residing at Lyons, Kansas, both being present during his
sickness.
The funeral will occur at the Presbyterian church at
2 o'clock Friday afternoon, and interment in the Odd
Fellow Cemetery. Lodges desiring to participate should
be at the residence at 1:15 sharp.
A more extended obituary will appear in the next
issue of the Courier. (No paper will be issued on
Friday.)
from the Ponca City Democrat, 17 January 1901
ELBERT W. HOYT DEAD.--Postmaster and Editor of
the Courier Passes Away After a Sickness of Ten
Days.--Died.--At his home in this city this morning,
Thursday, Jan., 17, 1901, of pneumonia, Elbert W.
Hoyt, postmaster, and editor of the Courier.
Deceased was taken sick about ten days ago with la
grippe, which culminated in pneumonia. Physicians
were in attendance almost constantly, and all that
medical skill and all that loving hands and good nursing
could do failed to bring him pack to health. He showed
wonderful vitality in fighting off death.
Deceased came to Ponca City in 1893, and started
the weekly Courier, and we are glad to say of him that
he was an honorable contemporary, and it is with deep
regret and sadness that we are called upon to chronicle
the sad news of his death. He has been a great factor in
the building up of the city and in his death the
community loses one of its best citizens and the
newspaper fraternity one of its most brilliant writers.
Elbert W. Hoyt was born at Warsaw, N. Y.,
November 29, 1866, where he resided until he was
fifteen years of age, when he removed with his parents
to Lyons, Kans. He started his newspaper career as a
newsboy at Warsaw and finished the printers trade at
Lyons, Kan. At the age of eighteen he became city
editor of the Lyons Tribune and owner of the same
paper at the age of nineteen. At the opening of the
strip, he sold his paper and came to the new country,
stopping at Wharton just south of Perry, and a few
weeks later locating in Ponca City. In 1897, he began
the publication of his daily.
He leaves a wife and son and father and brother to
mourn his loss. The sympathy of the entire community
is extended to the bereaved family in their present, sad
hour of affliction. May He who controls the destiny of
the universe give them strength to bear up under the
terrible strain of the loss of one so near and dear.
The funeral will occur at the Presbyterian church at
two o'clock Friday afternoon. Interment in the Odd
Fellow Cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 17 January 1901
Death From Heart Failure.--Mrs. Nelson Thair (sic),
was found dead in her bed this morning at the residence
of her daughter, Mrs. C. E. Welch, of this city.
Mr. and Mrs. Thair (sic) have been visiting with
Mr. and Mrs. Welch the past few weeks and apparently
she has been enjoying good health.
About 4 o'clock this morning deceased was heard
to get up and stir up the fire and then went to bed again.
At about 6 o'clock when the family got up they found
the lifeless body which had been dead only a short time.
She had made no complaint of feeling bad. A physician
was sent for who pronounced the cause of death to be
from heart disease. Telegrams have been sent to her
sons, who reside in Wilson County, Kansas, who are
expected to arrive tonight or tomorrow and make
arrangement for the disposition of the remains.
Mrs. Thayer was nearly 67 years of age and was a
member of the Christian church. She has been a
resident of Kansas for the past 33 years. She leaves a
husband and 8 or 9 children, the youngest being Mrs.
Welch of this city, to mourn her loss. They have the
sympathy of all in their sad bereavement.
[Note: Thayer is the correct spelling of the last name.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 January 1901
ELBERT W. HOYT--The Funeral one of the Largest
Ever Held in Kay County,--Brief Sketch of his Life and
Work. The funeral of Elbert W. Hoyt was held at the
Presbyterian church, Pastor W. G. Oglevee officiating,
assisted by Rev. E. F. Hill and Rev Father Sevens, of
the M. E. and Catholic churches.
The remains were escorted from the residence to the
cemetery by Ponca City Lodge, A. O. U. W, the active
pallbearers being, D. E. Hogan, N. A. Bleakley, Frank
Croker, J. E. Webster, J. F. Rankin and Herbert Taylor.
The honorary bears were James Hutchins, Will T.
Chase, E. R. Peery, Claud Baker, James Reppeto and R.
E. Morrison.
A special choir rendered very appropriate music.
The sermon by the pastor was most touching and
appropriate, as were the tributes of the other ministers.
(The Courier will here promise its readers a memorial
leaflet containing all these tributes to the memory of
their departed friend and editor.) The floral offerings
were numerous and very fine, many coming from
friends from a distance.
55
But a very small portion of those gathered to pay
their last tribute to the deceased could gain entrance to
the church, but after the services all were given an
opportunity of a last look at their departed friend. and it
was a sad and mournful occasion. Citizens of all
classes there took a farewell of the man who had been
their best friend on earth. The procession to the
cemetery was the largest ever seen in this section of
Oklahoma. During the afternoon the post office was
closed by special order of the department at
Washington. By request of Mayor DeRoberts business
was suspended and all business houses closed out of
respect of the deceased. Many friends, county officials,
and newspapermen were present from the surrounding
towns. The father and brother, A. W., and Frank E.
Hoyt were present during a part of the sickness of Mr.
Hoyt, they being his only relatives now living.
Thus closed the earthly career of Elbert W. Hoyt,
friend, citizen, editor and official. But his work and its
influences will continue. The citizens will wish for his
help and counsel in the great work before them of
building a city and Developing a community; in the
establishment of a great commonwealth his voice and
influence will be missed. But his example and zealous
work will be an inspiration for others to earnestly strive
to help along with the work in which he so nobly
assisted but was compelled to relinquish in the prime of
his manhood and almost at the threshold of his
usefulness.
OBITUARY--Elbert W. Hoyt died at 5:15 Thursday
morning, January 17, 1901, and was buried Friday
afternoon in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Ponca City. He
was born at Warsaw, N. Y., Nov. 29, 1866. He
attended the common schools and was a newsboy until
he was fifteen years old when he removed with his
parents to Lyons, Kansas. Then he finished the printers
trade and became interested in the Lyons Tribune, of
which he was city editor at eighteen and editor and
owner at twenty.
At the opening of this part of Oklahoma in 1893,
he sold his paper and moved his printing plant to
Wharton, near Perry, but soon changed to New Ponca,
now Ponca City. He began the publication of the
Weekly Courier in a few weeks, and on October 4,
1897, he started the Daily Courier, neither of which has
missed an issue.
He was appointed postmaster by President
McKinley and held the office at the time of his death.
He was always a strong advocate of the claims and
interest of his city, county and territory. While he was
a strong, zealous partisan, yet he numbered most of his
political enemies among his host of staunch friends.
His influence and that of his paper was felt and
recognized all over the territory in matters pertaining to
the material welfare of the good people who, like him
were struggling to build them a home in a new country.
In his intercourse with the cosmopolitan public as
an official he possessed the faculty of pleasing and
56
satisfying where others would have given up in despair.
In his intercourse with his employees and associates he
was kind and considerate almost to a fault. In his
advocacy of public interests he made his influence felt
the more by his quiet, persistent reassuring of the
justice of his cause.
He was zealous but not
contentious; a leader without officiousness; an
unyielding friend but a most honorable and considerate
enemy.
The city and county has lost an upright, earnest,
conscientious citizen whose place will be hard to fill.
His family have suffered the irreparable loss of a kind
and most considerate husband and father, whose
happiest hours were those spent in his home with his
wife and little son, Harold, now five years old.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 January 1901
William Edwards Dead.--Died, Sunday Morning,
January 20, 15 3 o'clock, William Edwards, aged 85
years. He was born in Bath county, Kentucky, June 22,
1816, and moved to Missouri, living in Cass county
most of the time.
He came to Oklahoma soon after the opening and
resided with his son, H. D, six miles west of the city,
until his death.
He leaves a wife, four sons and two daughters. H.
D., William, Jr., Rufus and John, and Mrs. Charles
Wilson all reside in Oklahoma, and the other daughter,
Mrs. C. F. Haldeman, resides in Kansas City, Mo. The
funeral occurred at the residence of his son H. D., on
Monday, and the interment took place in the Odd
Fellows cemetery. He lived a long, honorable, useful
life, and leaves a host of friends who extend heartfelt
sympathy to the bereaved widow and children.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 January 1901
Sudden Death. Mat Flynn, aged 55 years, residing
with his wife at St. Joe, Mo, has been visiting his sister
at Guthrie for several days. He went to Blackwell
Saturday, and returning was waiting at the Santa Fe
depot for the train to Guthrie. He was taken suddenly
ill, was carried to the hotel and soon died. The disease
appeared to be apoplectic.
His son, J. M. Flynn, of Topeka, arrived yesterday
and left on the train last night for St. Joe.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 14 February 1901
Obituary. Mrs. Arizona Constant, wife of H. H.
Constant, died at her home near Uncas, Longwood
township, February 7, 1901, aged 36 years and 14 days.
Cartarrhal consumption, with other complicated
diseases, from which she suffered for over two years
was the cause of her death. She bore her afflictions
with Christian fortitude; was a faithful wife, and mother
of four children, two of which preceded her to heaven.
The writer having often visited her in her last days of
suffering and talked with her concerning her soul, and
she always said she was willing and ready to go, only
waiting the Father's time to call her home.
On the day and night of February 6 her suffering
grew intense. While boisterous winter winds were
sweeping by without, there was a struggle within the
home for the slight breath that held her to earth, but just
at the break of day on the morning of the 7th the "silver
cord was loosed."
The funeral sermon was preached by Mr. Cipe,
Pastor of Oak Grove Protestant Methodist church, with
interment in the Oak Grove cemetery. The remains
were followed to their last resting place by a large
concourse of relatives and friends. Mr. Constant has
the sympathy of the entire community in his irreparable
loss. A Friend.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 February 1901
Death of Edith Mongran. Miss Edith Mongran,
daughter of Mrs. J. B. George of Osage Nation, died at
North Mo. Academy, Salisbury, Mo, Feb 21 of typhoid
pneumonia. Parents will arrive tonight with the
remains. The funeral will be held at Pawhuska on
Sunday, Feb. 24, and interment will be in that cemetery,
where her father lies.
The remains well be met at the train tonight by the
Rebekah lodge and escorted to the residence of Mrs.
Belie Adam where they will remain until they start for
Pawhuska tomorrow morning.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 February 1901
Died. At one o'clock this afternoon, Jaquet, son of
Henry J. and Lula Seybold, aged 8 months and 7 days,
died at their home on north third street. Mr. and Mrs.
Seybold have the sincere sympathy of the entire
community in the loss of their little one. Complete
arrangements for the funeral have not yet been made.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 February 1901
Died. Willie Hicks, aged 15 years, died last evening of
typhoid fever on the Mrs. Dunn place a mile and a half
west of town.
Mrs. Hicks lost her husband about two months ago
and came here with her family two weeks ago,
intending to make this their future home. They were
staying with Mrs. Hick's brother, Mr. Tully, who lives
on the Mrs. Dunn farm. The sudden loss of her eldest
son is greatly to be deplored, and the Courier joins with
their friends in extending heartfelt sympathy. The
funeral will take place from the farm house at eleven
o'clock Wednesday, conducted by Rev. Hill and the
remains will be interred in the Odd Fellow's Cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 February 1901
Two Deaths Today. Frank H. Smith died at 8 o'clock
this morning after a long illness. He had been slowly
improving for a few days, but yesterday he suffered a
relapse and soon all hopes of his recovery were
abandoned. further particulars and notice of the funeral
will be given tomorrow.
--At noon today, Horton, 12 year old son of Robert
Bridal and wife, died. Funeral notice tomorrow.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 February 1901
Frank H. Smith Dead. After many weeks of suffering,
the esteemed citizen, Frank H. Smith died this
morning of stomach trouble.
Only a few days ago hopes were entertained for his
recovery, but an unexpected turn for the worse
occurred, from which he never rallied, and also caused
an abrupt ending of this good man's career on earth. A
more detailed account will appear in our next issue.
Announcement: The funeral services of the late Frank
H. Smith, will take place Sunday afternoon at 2
o'clock, at the Presbyterian church.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 March 1901
Obituary. Horton Allen Bridle, son of Robert and
Anna Bridle, was born June 5, 1890, at Oberlin,
Kansas, died in Ponca City at 12 noon, Thursday
February 28, 1901.
Horton came here with his parents in September
1893, at the opening, and had a host of friends among
all classes.
The funeral was held at 2 o'clock this afternoon,
Rev. Oglevee preaching the memorial sermon. Burias
was in the Odd Fellows cemetery. The floral offerings
were very nice and profuse, the piece sent by the Junior
endeavor society being especially fine.
The parents have the deep sympathy of this entire
community in their bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 2 March 1901
Obituary of Frank Smith. Frank Harold Smith, born
at Fort Madison, Iowa, August 12, 1852, died at Ponca
City February 28, 1901.
Frank Smith spent his early years with his parents
at LaCrosse, Wisconsin, where he first engaged in the
drug business. Later he was in business in Iowa and for
a few years at Butte, Montana, coming to Ponca City a
few weeks after the opening. He married Alma
McPherson Cannon in September 1877.
Frank Smith has been very prominent in business
affairs of Ponca City since the day he arrived on the
new town site. He had a host of friends in all lines of
business, and was noted for his open-hearted friendship
for any man in need or distress. He did a large and
lucrative business, being recognized as the leader in his
line in all Kay county. During his continued poor
health from kidney trouble, and his long illness
terminating in his death, was never heard to complain
or find fault. He was cheerful, patient and hopeful to
the last.
The funeral will occur at 2 Sunday afternoon at the
Presbyterian church. Rev. Oglevee will be assisted by
all the ministers of the city. The local druggists will act
57
as pallbearers. Interment will be in the Odd fellows
cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 March 1901
Miss Louise Fronkier Dead. Miss Louise Fronkier
died at the residence of her brother in the northeast part
of the city, at 5 o'clock, Friday afternoon, aged 19
years. She had long been a sufferer from weak lungs.
The funeral will be held at the Catholic church at 10
o'clock Monday morning, and the burial in the Catholic
cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 29 March 1901
Card of Thanks. We desire to extend our most sincere
thanks to the many friends and neighbors who rendered
us assistance during the sickness of Louise Fronkier
and during our sad bereavement.
Benj. Fronkier, Louise Fronkier, A. G. Soldani, S.
J. Soldani
from the Ponca City Democrat, 29 March 1901
Card of Thanks. We wish to extend our sincere thanks
to friends and acquaintances who kindly rendered
assistance during the sickness and death of our
husband and father. Mother, Amanda Morgan.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 March 1901
Miss Martha Fagan, who has been keeping house
for Father Sevens, died last night surrounded by her
family and friends, who had been called to her bedside.
She died of acute pneumonia. Her remains were
shipped this morning to her former home near Renfrow,
Oklahoma where interment will be made. Father
Sevens accompanied the remains. There will be no
services at the Catholic church tomorrow, but on Easter
Sunday there will be mass at 11 a.m.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 April 1901
Francis Earl Baker, son of Mr. and Mrs. W. A.
Baker of Crow, at the age of one year and 20 days, died
Monday evening. Services were conducted at the home
yesterday afternoon, by Rev. W. G. Oglevee, Interment
at I. O. O. F. Cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 April 1901
Died, at the Fearnow home northwest of town, at
1:30 this morning, Grover Fearnow, aged 18. Mrs.
Fearnow arrived from Colorado with him last Sunday,
having despaired of his recovery. Mr. Fearnow has not
yet returned from Colorado, therefore funeral
arrangements have not been made. This is the fourth
member of the family that has been taken away in the
past two years. In an especial manner the whole
community extends their sympathies.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 April 1901
Ethel Marie, the infant daughter of C. J. and
Margaret Colvin, died in this city Friday, April 12, of
58
pneumonia. The sorrowing family have the heartfelt
sympathy of their many friends in the loss of their little
blossom.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 April 1901
An Indian Murdered.--A Ponca Indian was shot and
fatally wounded last evening about 8 o'clock two miles
south of Ponca City. Buffalo Track and Cow Fobbee
were returning home from this city and met two
cowboys coming toward the city. Near the point of
meeting was the carcass of a steer which had been dead
several days. The Indians understood English very
poorly but understood that the cowboys were accusing
them of having killed the steer. This the Indians
resented and one of the boys fired two shots, the last of
which passed through Track's body at the lower part of
the stomach. The cowboys then made their escape.
Dr. Newman, the government physician at the
Ponca agency says Track cannot possibly live. He is 65
years old and has always been a very peaceable
inoffensive Indian. The officers have secured at the
particulars possible and will try to capture the men who
did the shooting.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 April 1901
Jimmie Tague Dies Suddenly.--James Tague died at
noon today very suddenly of heart trouble. He was
about the streets yesterday, but his wife says he was
slightly sick in the night. He complained some this
morning but toward noon he suddenly collapsed and
before medical assistance could reach him he was dead.
Drs. Robertson and Scott worked with him till all hope
of revival had gone.
James Tague was born in Ireland 52 years ago and
came to this country as a mere child. His home was in
Lowell, Mass. He served ten years as a drummer boy
in the regular army. He married his wife at Walnut,
Kansas, ten years ago, and leaves no children.
Jimmie was everybody's friend. The wind was
never too cold nor the sun too hot for Jimmie to have a
pleasant word with anyone he happened to meet. He
was a painter by trade and was always ready for a job or
a joke. He will be missed from his usual haunts and
especially the band room.
No more will his
gentlemanly, pleasant greeting be heard by his host of
friends. The widow has the heartfelt sympathy of the
entire community in her deep affliction.
The funeral will be held at the house at 2o'clock
tomorrow. Sunday, and interment will take place at the
Odd Fellows cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 2 May 1901
Sudden Death of James Tague. Died--Saturday noon of
failure of the heart, James Tague, aged 52 years.
The sudden death of "Jimmie" as he was well and
familiarly known in the city, was a shock to his friends
and his grief-stricken wife. He had been about town the
day before apparently in as good health as usual, but
was a little sick during the night and the next morning.
He was taken ill suddenly and before medical assistance
could reach him he had passed beyond.
James Tague was born in Ireland and came to this
country when a mere boy. His home was in Lowell,
Mass. He served in the regular army for ten years as a
drummer boy, and also spent several years on the sea as
a sailor. While a sailor he visited many foreign shores,
and could give many interesting experiences in his
travels on sea. He was married at Walnut, Kansas, ten
years ago and leaves no children, but a devoted wife
and a host [of] sympathizing friends to mourn his loss.
The funeral was held from the residence Sunday
afternoon, conducted by Rev. Oglevee of the
Presbyterian church, after which the remains were
escorted to the Odd fellows cemetery by the Ponca City
band of which he was a member and a delegation of
friends.
The bereaved wife has the heartfelt sympathy of
the entire community in this her sad bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 May 1901
Death of Cora Hough. -- Miss Cora Hough died at 10
o'clock this morning at the residence of her brother, W.
H. Hough, corner Central avenue and Eight street, aged
21 years. Miss Hough had been a sufferer for some
time from lung trouble and at times had hopes of
recovery, but for several months past she had been
gradually failing.
The funeral will occur at 2 0'clock tomorrow in the
Christian church and interment in the City cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 9 May 1901
Cora Hough Dead. Died--At the residence of her
parents in Ponca City, Saturday, May 4, 1901, Miss
Cora Hough, aged 22 years, 4 months and 12 days.
Miss Hough was born at Wadena, Minn. She came
with her parents to Oklahoma in 1896. She was a
member of the Christian church of this city and a young
lady of many accomplishments, admired and respected
by all her associates. She has been in very poor health
for the past year, and at the beginning of winter grew
worse, her ailment terminating in consumption.
The funeral services were held at the Christian
church, Sunday, conducted by the Rev. Warren Newby,
and attended by a large assemblage of friends.
Interment in the I.O.O.F. Cemetery. The sympathy of
everyone is extended to the grief stricken family in their
loss and sad bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 May 1901
A Suicide Near Blackwell. -- Word has been received
here that John B. Forsythe, living six miles south of
Blackwell, was found dead in his bed yesterday
morning by some of his neighbors. When found by a
neighbor who went to call on him he was lying on his
bed with a pistol in his hand and a bullet in his head.
He was a widower and recently from Nebraska, where
it is supposed he has some children. The affair is quite
a mystery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 May 1901
Fatal Railway Accident. -- Sometime during last night
two boys under twenty were walking the railroad track
south of this city a few miles coming to Kay county
hunting harvest work. They were tired and it is claimed
that they sat down on the track to rest. Both fell asleep
and must have fallen over, one of them clearing the
rails.
Sometime after midnight, John Crolly of
Galveston, awoke and not seeing his companion, Harry
Crabtree of Fort Worth, began hunting for him. He
found his own hat and Crabtree's cap a few rods down
the track, but not finding his companion he started for
this city. Early this morning the section men found the
scattered remains of Crabtree along the track, and
gathering them up, brought them to this city.
It is supposed that a large double header passed
over the body and head. It passed so close to Crolly as
to cut off a part of the tail of his coat on which he had
been sitting. There is considerable mystery about the
Crolly story, and some of the details it is rather and
singularly deherent. But these seem to be about all that
can be gathered from him. Relatives have been notified
by the railroad agent here.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 June 1901
Killed by Lightning. -- John Ferguson, who lived
seven miles northwest of Ponca City, was killed by
lightning just after noon today. He unhitched his team
from the binder and started for the house and was struck
by a bolt and was instantly killed.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 July 1901
Death of Mrs. Hart. -- Mrs. W. S. Hart died at 10:03
last night. She had been unconscious nearly all day,
and death was not unexpected. The physicians said at
the time of her burns that yesterday would be the
critical time, and they sent for her daughter who arrived
before her mother became unconscious.
The remains will be taken to Oskaloosa, Iowa, the
former home of the Harts, tomorrow, for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 July 1901
Mr. Siddens Dead. Mathew Siddens died early
yesterday morning at the home of his son three miles
west of this city, aged 55. The funeral is being held at
the residence this afternoon, and interment will be in
the cemetery west of the city. The local Masonic lodge
is in charge of the funeral service. Mr. Siddens was a
well known and highly respected citizen, and will be
greatly missed by his family and neighbors.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 July 1901
Obituary. -- Died, at her home, in Ponca City,
Thursday, July 11, 1901, Dorena Hart, age 59 years,
59
and a few months. Her suffering was but three days.
She bore it without a murmur till the last. During her
intense suffering the neighbors and friends were very
ready to assist in administering wants till the last.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 August 1901
Harry Getts Drowned. -- Harry Getts, who came to
Ponca City just a year ago with Roy McCann from
Joplin, has drowned in Manilla bay about a month ago.
He left here in December and enlisted in the 30th
Infantry and was sent to Manila. At the time of his
death he had secured a leave of absence and was in a
row boat on the bay with some companions when the
boat was overturned and he was drowned. His body
will be shipped to San Francisco and his parents at
Joplin will inform the government what disposition to
make of it.
While in this city Harry worked for A. L. Hawkins,
and made a great number of friends here.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 August 1901
Regene Daley Dead. -- Mr. and Mrs. M. Daley
received a telegram today from relatives at Hanover,
Missouri stating that their daughter Regene, who has
been visiting an aunt at that place for some, had died
this morning. She had been sick during the past month
of typhoid fever, and only recently a report came to her
parents that she had recovered sufficiently to be up
walking around, hence today’s telegram was indeed a
sad surprise to her parents and many young friends who
[were] expecting to welcome her home soon.
Mr. Daley will leave tonight for St. Joe. where he
will meet the remains and accompany them home.
This is the second death that has occurred in the
Daley family within the past month, and the sorrowing
parents have the sympathy of the entire community in
their sore afflictions.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 September 1901
Killed by the Cars. C. W. Perkins, a brakeman on the
Santa Fe gravel train, was run over and instantly killed
at the quarry switch yards, just east of town, yesterday
evening.
The unfortunate man was standing on the rear end
of the train, which was backing down a switch, when he
was seen to pitch forward directly in the path of the
moving train; one set of wheels passing over his body
before the train could be stopped.
The remains were brought to this city and turned
over to Undertaker Hayden, who prepared it for
shipment.
Mrs. Perkins will arrive on the evening train and
will accompany her husband's remains to Syracuse, N.
Y. for burial. The deceased was a member of the
I.O.O.F. of Syracuse, and the Ponca City Order will
accompany the remains to the depot.
60
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 September 1901
The eleven months old girl of G. F. Pryor and
wife, residing on south First street was buried yesterday
in the Odd Fellows cemetery. The little one died
Saturday of spinal meningitis.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 September 1901
Obituary of Peter S. Belveal. Peter S. Belveal was
born near Morristown, Ind., April 2, 1853, and died
Sept. 15, 1901. He moved with his parents in early
youth to Iowa and in 1868 he came to Kansas. In 1869
he was married to Melissa Jamison, at Leavenworth,
Kansas, and in 1871 they moved to southern Kansas
and in 1893 came to this country where he has since
resided.
He leaves a wife and two sons. He has been a
member of the Christian church for 35 years, and of the
A.O.U.W. since 1889.
His remains were buried today in the city cemetery
by the local lodge of the A.O.U.W., the attendance of
citizens being very large.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 September 1901
Obituary. Mrs. Lois Miller was born January 4, 1840
in Jackson, Mahoning county, Ohio, and died
September 12, 1901, in Ponca City, Oklahoma.
Deceased was a member of the M. E. church for the
past twenty-five years. She was the daughter of Joseph
and Mary Duer, and was married to Peter Miller Duer,
and was married to Peter Miller October 7, 1869. To
them have been born six children, four sons and two
daughters, three of the sons have preceded the mother.
The deceased leaves an aged mother, seven sisters,
one brother, husband, one son. Peter Miller, Jr., and two
daughters, Mrs. Pet Demar and Mrs. Marie Bradley, to
mourn her demise.
She was the first to be taken from the family of
nine children. Mrs. Maria Dalley, of Belle Plaine,
Kansas, her oldest sister, was the only relative outside
the immediate family able to attend the funeral, the
others living at such a distance.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 Sept 1901
Obituary. Martisha L. Ledbetter was born April 24,
1836, died Sept. 12, 1901. She moved from North
Carolina to Missouri in 1857 and was married to Joseph
H. Allen, June 15 1862. She was the mother of eight
children, all surviving her except the second daughter.
Four girls and a boy reside in Nuckolls county, Neb.,
while Rosa and John reside at the home in Cross, where
the mother died.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 September 1901
Tom Tall Chief's Death. -- The Courier had the news of
the sudden death of Tom Tall Chief a few days ago but
could give no particulars at that time. It since develops
that Tom was back in the interior of the Osage country
with some friends and got deeply mixed up with a
heavy sample of Kansas booze. In fact he was in a
glorious condition. He was doing some exhibition
riding for his own amusement and the entertainment of
his friends and when he started his horse for a big
running jump of a stone fence the horse stopped at the
wall and pitched Chief Tom over the fence and on his
head killing him instantly.
Tom was regarded as one of the leading and
progressive farmers among the Osages and his death
was universally regretted by all who knew him, red or
white.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 September 1901
The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Lee Hurst,
south Eighth street, age 7 months and 5 days died last
Friday night at 9:30 o'clock, of whooping cough and
pneumonia, and the infant child of Mr. and Mrs.
Arthur Hurst, in the same house, died of the same
disease at 4:05 on the morning of the 20th, aged 3
months and 2 days. The funeral of both children was
held from the house, services by Rev. E. S. Farrand,
pastor of the Presbyterian church.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 October 1901
E. B. Gravette Dead. Elliott B. Gravette died this
morning at 2 o'clock at Arkansas City, of Bright's
disease, aged 31 years. He was born at Winchester,
Ky., March 23, 1870. On Dec. 7, 1893, he married
Miss Ella Todd daughter of Dr. Todd, the government
physician at Gray Horse. For eleven years he has been
connected in some way with the Indian trader business
at Gray Horse and at Pawhuska, and at the time of his
death was in business for himself at the Osage capital.
Mr. Gravette was a Mason, Odd Fellow, a K. of P.
and member of the Woodmen of America. He leaves a
wife and two children. He was an industrious,
honorable business man and had a host of warm friends.
The funeral will take place Friday at 2 p.m., and the
remains will be laid away in the Odd Fellows
Cemetery. The remains will arrive tonight from
Arkansas City. The funeral will be held at the M. E.
church.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 October 1901
Obituary.--Robert Hugh, youngest son of Malchus and
Eva Watrous, was born in Plumwood, Madison county,
Ohio, March 31, 1898, and fell asleep at the home of
his parents in Cross, Kay County, Oklahoma, on
Tuesday morning, Oct. 1, 1901, aged 2 years and 6
months.
Little Robert had been sick about one year; medical
skill, love and tender care was his, but all proved
unavailing, and the fond parents were compelled to give
up their little treasure. Many plans and hopes ever
centered in this little darling, and only those who have
experienced the loss of a lovely childcan sound the
depth of their present bereavement.
Rev. E. F. Hill attended the funeral at Cross at 2
o'clock Wednesday afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 October 1901
Card of Thanks. We take this method of returning
thanks to the friends, and especially to the Odd Fellows
of Ponca City, and to Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Pray, of
Arkansas City, for their kindly ministrations and
assistance during the sickness, death and burial of E. B.
Gravett. J. N. Gravett and Family, Mrs. E. B. Gravett.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 October 1901
Santa Fe Detective Shot.-- Geo. C. Montgomery, a
detective for the Santa Fe railroad, was shot and
instantly killed at his home in Winfield last Saturday
night about 7 o'clock by some person unknown. The
shot was fired through the window into the dining
room, sixteen buckshot entering the body of Mr.
Montgomery. The assassin drove up to the house in a
buggy, driving rapidly away after shooting and no trace
of him has been found, although every effort is being
put forth to hunt him down.
It is claimed that threats had been made against the
life of Montgomery by parties in Oklahoma, and the
thought has been advanced that these parties were more
or less interested in the crime. That, however, is only a
supposition.
Mr. Montgomery has long been in the employ of
the Santa Fe, and is well known all along the line. He
was about forty years of age and leaves a wife and two
daughters.
The railroad is making every effort to locate the
murderer and it is only a question of time until he is
caught.
The murdered man was known to many in Ponca
City and his untimely death is keenly regretted.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 October 1901
The six-year-old son of Mrs. Sarah Helton died
Sunday and was buried yesterday morning. Typhoid
was the cause of the death. Further particulars have not
been attainable at this office.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 October 1901
Obituary. Miss Manda Gertrude Allen was born
April 14, 1895 in Republic county, Kansas, and died
near Ponca City, Oklahoma, October 4, 1901. The
deceased leaves a mother, step-father, one brother and
two sisters, with two dead (a brother and sister). She
came from Nebraska only a few months ago, arriving in
Ponca City on the 8th of June. Her grandmother, with
whom she has made her home for the past six years
preceded her only three weeks and one day, she dying
the 15th of September. The remains were laid at rest in
the Ponca City cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 October 1901
The body of an old man by the name of Bryant was
found dead on a farm near Perry night before last. He
61
is the man who wandered from home about two weeks
ago, and for whom relatives have been searching ever
since. He was too old and feeble in mind and body to
take care of himself, and death was caused by exposure
and lack of proper care.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 October 1901
Obituary. Harry, son of Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Foster,
born at Cameron, Kansas, Sept. 27, 1897, died at
Blackwell, Oklahoma., October 23, 1901.
Harry was the only child of the above family. He
was a child of superior ability and vitality, but his
candle of life was touched by the damp finger of death.
His acquaintances were his friends. Each one has a
kind story to tell of this little "angel of mercy".
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 October 1901
Will Sweet Dead. Will Sweet, a young man living near
Ponca City, died Tuesday evening at 11:30 o'clock
between Weatherford, Oklahoma, and Ft. Worth,
Texas. He was a sufferer from consumption and, in
company with his parents, was on his way to Arizona in
hopes of being benefited by that climate. But the
javelin of death intervened and he was taken to that
land where there is neither suffering or death. The
funeral was conducted by Rev. J. A. Ivey in the first
Baptist church at Weatherford yesterday, and the
remains interred in the Weatherford cemetery.
Will Sweet was born in Darien, Wisconsin, on
November 11, 1877, and would have been 24 years of
age on the eleventh day of next month. He joined the
Baptist church at the age of 12 years and was a faithful
and consistent Christian until the time of his death. His
was a cheerful and hopeful disposition and though
sorely afflicted, never complained. His death was a
severe blow to his loving parents and friends who find
consolation in his exemplary Christian life and in the
knowledge that there is one who doeth all things for the
best. He was a grandson of the late W. P. Mills.
Mr. and Mrs. Sweet, parents of Will, returned this
morning and to them is the sympathy of the entire
community extended in this time of the great sorrow. It
is hard to realize the sorrow of the stricken parents who
had adopted as a last measure an overland trip to
Arizona to save the life of their loving son, and to have
death take him from them before the journey had hardly
begun. To them sympathy is not with held nor given in
stinted measure.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 November 1901
Dr. Shaffer Dead. Found at His Drug Store This
Morning and was Past Help. WAS A PIONEER
CITIZEN. Verdict of Jury was Accidental chloroform
Poisoning. -- The town was shocked and surprised this
morning to learn that Dr. H. W. Shaffer was dead. He
was not known to have been sick and his death was
entirely unexpected. He died at his drug store on Grand
62
avenue and was alone at the time. Dr. Shaffer was one
of the first settlers of Ponca City, coming here when the
country was first opened to settlement. He was a
whole-souled, genial man and had hosts of friends all
over this part of the county who are very much pained
to learn of his sudden and sad death.
He leaves a devoted wife to mourn the loss of a
kind husband. Mrs. Shaffer, who is now visiting
friends in the east has the heartfelt sympathy of the
entire community.
An inquest was held at the drug store this afternoon
by Coroner R. S. Cannon and the following report of
his death is taken from the testimony of C. O.
Garlinghouse: "Have known Mr. Shaffer for 8 years.
Last time I saw him alive was at 7:10 this morning. I
had him in charge since Sunday night, taking care of
him. He had been drinking whisky. Can't say how
much he had. Seemed to be better and asked me to go
home, said for me to close up the store and go and get
some rest, that he would be all right when I returned in
the morning. Locked front door of the store and went
home about 9 o'clock. Returned this morning about 7
o'clock and found him lying on his face in broken glass,
with the house full of chloroform. Seemed rational and
all right when I left him at night.
"The broken bottle was a half gallon bottle and
don't know how much it contained. Didn't know there
was any chloroform where he could get it. He had
asked for the drug during the afternoon and taken a
bottle out of his case, but I took it away from him. Hid
all the chloroform I could find. Have since found
where bottle came from. Back of the prescription case.
Have not the least doubt in the world but that bottle
came from drug store of deceased. No evidence of any
one having been in the room. Called Dr. Morey and
Germain this morning and Drs. Sippy and Morey
examined the body."
Dr. Morey testified that he was called about 7:30
o'clock and found Dr. Shaffer almost if not quite dead.
Give it as his opinion that he died from chloroform
poisoning. Dr. Germain and Schenck corroborated the
testimony of Dr. Morey.
Other witnesses were
examined but nothing further was brought out.
The Jury then retired and soon brought in the following
verdict: Territory of Oklahoma, Kay county, an
inquisition holden at Shaffer's drug store in Ponca City
in Kay County on the 14th day of November, A. D.,
1901, before me R. S. Cannon, coroner of said county,
on the body of H. W. Shaffer there lying dead, by the
jurors whose names are hereto ascribed. The said jurors
upon their oath do say that H. W. Shaffer came to his
death by accidental chloroform poisoning.
In testimony whereof, the said jurors have hereunto
set their hands this day and year above said. J. J.
McGraw, W. N. Dick, J. A. Fowler, F. Dunham, Riley
Dunbar, A. C. Rogers. Attest:--R. S. Cannon, Coroner.
The remains are now in charge of the Masonic
lodge, of which the doctor was an honored member.
The time of the funeral has not been set, as word has
not been received from Mrs. Shaffer.
This is one of the saddest events in the history of
Ponca City, and the entire city mourns for a good
citizen dead. The best eulogy that can be given Dr.
Shaffer is this: "He was a good man." True, he may
have had his faults, but who of us has not.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 November 1901
The body of Dr. H. W. Shaffer will be shipped to
Butler, Indiana this evening where it will be laid to rest.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 November 1901
JOE DONAHOE KILLED shot by Levi Thurman, a
Bartender in a Kildare Saloon. DEATH CAME
INSTANTLY. Lives on a Farm Southwest of Ponca
City. Is Well Known. -- Some little excitement was
caused this morning by the report that Joseph Donahoe
had been shot and instantly killed by Levi Thurman, a
bartender, at Kildare last night. It is claimed that
Donahoe made a gun play and that Thurman shot in
self-defense.
Joseph Donahoe was a prominent citizen of this
neighborhood, having lived on a farm one and one half
miles south of Ponca City for several years. he was
formerly of Kansas and represented the Atchison
district in the Kansas legislature for six terms.
No particulars of the tragedy can be learned at this
time further than above states. Thurman is now in jail
at Newkirk. The time for the preliminary hearing has
not yet been set.
Various rumors are afloat regarding the cause of
the shooting, but none of them are credited. No inquest
was held it being deemed unnecessary by the officers.
The tragedy is sincerely regretted by all good citizens
and it is hoped that something will be done to make
"gun play" very unpopular in this part of the vineyard.
The body of the murdered man was brought to
Ponca City last night and taken to the home of his sonin-law, J. J. McGraw, and the funeral will be held
tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Catholic church.
Father Sevens officiating.
The deceased leaves a wife and two children, Mrs.
J. J. McGraw and Joseph Donahoe, who have the
heartfelt sympathy of a large circle of friends in their
sad bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 December 1901
The funeral of Florence Mildred daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. John Egbert, occurred yesterday. Rev. Myers,
conducting the services. She was two years, one month
and five days of age. The remains were laid to rest to
the Odd Fellows cemetery. The cause of the death was
dyphtheric croup.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 December 1901
Obituary. James M. Hogan was born near Lafayette,
Indiana, on January 3, 1833. Died near Ponca City,
Oklahoma, December 15, 1901. He was a member of
the Baptist church over 35 years, and was a highly
respected citizen. The remains were laid to rest in
Longwood cemetery, six miles northeast of Ponca City,
on December 17, 1901. The funeral was conducted by
Rev. Milton Reece.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 December 1901
The wife of S. D. Simmonds of Longwood
township died last Saturday at 6 o'clock p. m. aged 28
years. The funeral was held Sunday, the services being
conducted by Rev. D. J. Doughty. It was the largest
funeral ever held in the township. [According to
cemetery records her name was Hannah Simmons and
she was the wife of Squire D. Simmons.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 December 1901
The funeral of the infant twins of the Bennett family
on south Eight street was held at the Christian church at
3:30 yesterday afternoon. Sermon by the pastor, Rev.
Popplewell.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 December 1901
The funeral of the infant twins of Mr. and Mrs. G.
L. Bennett was held Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock at
the home of the parents on south Eight St., and the
sermon was preached by Rev. Popplewell. The
bereaved family have the heartfelt sympathy of the
entire community in their sad affliction. J. W. Bennett
and Wade Travis and wife of Arkansas City attended
the funeral of the babes.
Mr. and Mrs. G. L. Bennett and family desires the
Courier to express the heartfelt thanks to the friends
who so kindly assisted them during the sickness and
death and the burial of their beloved children.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 December 1901
The thirteen-year-old son of Barber H. T. Scott
died last night of diphtheria after thirteen days illness.
The funeral will be at the home tomorrow afternoon at
2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. T. H. Popplewell.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 January 1902
CLAUD OBERLY DEAD.
Son-in-law of Gov.
Bigheart Dies of Consumption. -- The Osage Journal of
the 9th says: The friends of Claude Oberly will be
surprised to learn that while he and his wife were on
their way to Kansas City for medical treatment for
himself that he died very suddenly at Ochelata last
Saturday of consumption.
Claude Oberly was among the smartest, if not the
smartest, young full blood upon the reservation. He
had secured for himself a good education, and was well
prepared to make a success of life, and had it not been
that while attending school at Haskell Institute he
contracted a cold that resulted in quick consumption, he
would have made a big and strong man, for his parents
are large people and not consumptive inclined.
63
He leaves a wife, who is the daughter of Gov.
Bigheart, and many friends to mourn his death.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 January 1902
O. J. Stowell died at his home in Cross at 7:30
yesterday morning of pneumonia, after a week's illness.
The funeral will be held at the home at 5 o'clock this
evening and the body will be shipped to Kansas City
tonight for burial. Mr. Stowell was one of the first
settlers of Cross, a lawyer by profession, and was well
known in this locality. He was an old soldier and the
funeral today is attended by the Grand Army Post. He
leaves a wife and three children. Two sons and a
daughter. One son is a clerk in the U. S. land office at
Alva and the other son and daughter are at home.
from the Ponca City Courier, 13 February 1902
IN MEMORIAM. Mrs. Jennie Twyford Tauer, Died
Friday, February 7, 1902.
Once again the Reaper has passed this way, and
among the many has borne away Mrs. Jennie Tauer, the
sweet new-made wife, the beloved daughter, the
affectionate sister, the dear friend. We all knew Jennie,
the girl wife of our townsman, Will Tauer. A few
weeks ago she was at home with her parents, Mr. and
Mrs. C. C. Twyford, of this city.
She moved in the throng of girlish beauty on our
streets, and elsewhere and in her home. The smile, the
modesty, the innocence, the radiant beauty of her fair
young life attracted everyone. She won to herself all
hearts, as the flowers and song of birds draw the eye
and ear of the passerby.
The bride of yesterday with the orange blossoms
still clinging in her raven hair, and the sacred words of
betrothal lingering on her lips, she went away with her
proud husband to build a home in the newly opened
country near Hobart. The new home was build and
furnished with the garnishment of love's devotion. By
the light of that distant fireside the new-made family sat
them down, glad in their unbroken unity, planning for
their future, and looking back to us here with
affectionate memory.
but sickness entered and
dissolution followed and ere we are aware we are all
bereaved. Not only to three homes, left desolate, but to
this entire community has come a great sorrow. The
remains were brought home for interment.
Rev. Huber, of the Presbyterian church assisted by
other ministers spoke words eloquent with hope and
consolation. The hymns she used to sing were sung,
and while the bright sun lingered between noon and
nightfall, her cold form was laid away beneath the
grasses, to wait a little while for the companionship of
those she loved so well. Jennie has gone, gone out on
that river whose waters are full of cleansing and whose
farther waves beat on the golden shore.
In tears we ask, Why this? But the question has
been asked so long ago, and so often. Let us glean
64
comfort from the Pauline statement that "death is gain."
While it is natural and proper to mourn the extinction of
manly power and womanly loveliness, let us remember
that death leads with kindly hand into the vestibule of
life more magnificent. Our Father Eternal will not lead
us with an impartial hand, but all alike, and cut our
garments from the royal fabric of His own
righteousness.
Let us look into yesterday and borrow from the life
of our dear departed sweet and hallowed inspiration for
a truer. better history.
Let love flourish and fall about the hearts of the
lonely husband and disconsolate parents, so that their
sorrow may find mitigation, and the lamp of true
sympathy drive away the shows growing on their
pathway this side the tomb. W.S.
from the Ponca City Courier, 18 February 1902
[reprinted from Kingman, Kansas, Leader- Courier, 13
February 1902]
DEATH OF MRS. TURNER.. Mother of Mrs. Foutz
Died at Kingman, Kansas, Sunday Feb. 9. -- Mrs.
Elizabeth Turner of this city [Kingman, Kansas], died
at their home in the western part of the city. Her death
comes very sudden and unexpected. Saturday evening
she was apparently as well as usual and attended to her
household duties. When about 9 o'clock she suddenly
became alarmingly ill and medical aid was summoned.
She shortly lapsed into unconsciousness and gradually
sank away, dying in about six hours from the time she
was first stricken.
Funeral services were conducted at the family
home this morning at 11:30 by Rev. C. B. Eby, of the
Presbyterian church, and her remains laid to rest beside
her deceased husband in Walnut Hill cemetery, to
which place she was followed by numerous sorrowing
friends.
Elizabeth Golden was born at Washington, Daviess
county, Ind., May 2, 1827. She was united in marriage
with E. B. Turner at Waynesville, Ohio, February 18,
1847. She came with her husband and family to
Kingman county, Kansas in 1887, settling on a claim in
Belmont township where they resided a number of
years. Later moving to this city, where they have since
resided. Her husband preceded her in death nearly four
years ago, his death occurring April 3, 1898.
The following children survive her, the most of
them being well-known in Kingman. Walter Turner,
Kansas City, Mo., Mrs. F. T. West, Cleveland, Ohio,
Mrs. R. T. Davidson, Dyer, Tenn., Mrs. L. M. Berry
and Miss Maud Turner, Kingman, and Mrs. F. D.
Foutz, Ponca City, O.T. To those surviving relatives,
the Leader -Courier extends condolence.
from the Ponca City Courier, 24 February 1902
ACCIDENT OR MURDER. The Dead Body of Leon
Bear's Ear, Ponca, Found This Morning
The dead body of Leon Bear's Ear a Ponca Indian,
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 March 1902
The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Lee died at the
home on south Ninth street last night and was buried at
1 o'clock this afternoon. Rev. Popplewell preaching the
funeral sermon.
best of health. He was in the habit of leaving the city
on some of the early trains, and when he did not appear
for breakfast nothing was thought of it. A meeting of
the board of regents of the Langston school was
scheduled for this afternoon at which meeting Mr.
Tubbs was expected to be present and take part in the
business. He did not come and a messenger was sent to
the hotel to ascertain his whereabouts. The porter went
up to his room and found the door locked. The lock
was broken, and when entering the room it was found
that Mr. Tubbs was dead, evidently expiring some time
during the night.
The body was discolored, death having come early
in the night. Nothing could be found in the room that
would indicate other than that the deceased came to his
death by heart disease.
The deceased was a resident of Newkirk, where he
was a contractor and builder. He has a family there
now. He was about 57 years of age and a close friend
of Governor Jenkins, by whom he was appointed to the
office which he held at the time of his death.
Telegrams were sent this afternoon to relatives in
Newkirk and friends in other parts of the territory. It is
expected that some members of the family will come
here on the night train from the north to take charge of
the remains.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 March 1902
William Landon, an old soldier, who has been a
resident of Ponca City for two years past, died at his
home on south Ninth street at half past five o'clock this
morning, aged about 65 years. He leaves a wife and ten
children, the youngest child being about eight years old.
The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock tomorrow
afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 5 May 1902
Card of Thanks. We desire to return our sincere thanks
to the friends and neighbors for the sympathy and
assistance so abundantly extended us at the time of our
bereavement in the death of our beloved mother, Mrs.
Lavina Simms. J. H. Barnes and wife, Arthur Jacobs
and wife, A. T. Stratton and wife, Wade, Frank and
Albert Simms, Ponca City, Okla., May 5, 1902.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 March 1902
Dempsy Durvin, one of the oldest and most
hightly respected colored citizens of the city, died at his
home in the southeast part of town at seven o'clock this
morning, after an illness of considerable duration. He
was about fifty years of age, and leaves a faithful wife
to mourn the loss of a good and beloved husband. Mrs.
Durvin has the sympathy of a large circle of friends in
her bereavement.
from the Ponca City Courier, 13 May 1902 [reprinted
from the Perry Enterprise, 12 May 1902.]
DEATH BY MORPHINE. Henry Roth, an Old Settler
of Perry, Ends his life.-- An old Gentleman named
Jones while taking a stroll along the hills northeast of
the city Sunday afternoon came upon the dead body of
a man and upon investigation it was found to be Henry
Roth, a barber, who had been regularly employed in the
shops of this city since the opening. The body was
taken to Wade's undertaking rooms, where a coroner's
inquest was held this morning and a verdict rendered to
the effect that the deceased came to his death by
morphine, self-administered. A box containing some
morphine was found on his person. It is supposed that
he had become dissatisfied with life as he was a great
sufferer from disease and being addicted to the use of
morphine concluded that the easiest and best way to get
rid of his earthly troubles. Henry was known and well
liked by every citizen of Perry. He was kind and
courteous to all, but had but a few if any intimate
friends. He was about 39 years of age and served
during the war in a Kentucky regiment. He was
was found by the railroad track just the other side of
White Eagle station this morning. It is supposed by
some that he fell from the 9 o'clock train last night and
was killed, others are inclined to believe that he was
struck by the train while walking on the track, yet
others profess to believe that he was foully dealt with
by persons unknown. The only injury noticeable on the
body was a broken arm. Other Indians on the same
train say that Bear's Ear was not with them. However
much the stories may disagree on other points, all agree
that Bear's Ear was dead when he was found, and the
actual cause of his death may perhaps remain a
mystery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 February 1902
Card of Thanks. I desire to return most sincere thanks
to the friends who so kindly assisted me the illness and
at the death and burial of my son, Edward Campbell.
Your kindness will never be forgotten. Mrs. M. J.
Campbell.
DEATH OF N. W. TUBBS. Dies Suddenly of Heart
Failure at a Hotel in Guthrie.
Guthrie, O. T., April 2--N. W. Tubbs, superintendent
of the buildings at the A. and N. colored university at
Langston and charge of the grounds at the Tonkawa
preparatory school, was found dead in his bed at the
Oklahoma hotel in this city, this afternoon. The
supposition is that the deceased came to this death by
heart disease. Mr. Tubbs came here Monday from his
home at Newkirk and went to Langston yesterday. He
returned last night, stopping at the Oklahoma. At six
o'clock he ate a hearty supper and retired early, in the
65
thought to have a wife and daughter living in that state,
but no reply has been received to a telegram sent there
in regard to the disposition of the body.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 May 1902
A FATAL ACCIDENT.-- Last Sunday afternoon S. J.
Scott who lived with his son, Robert Scott, at Cross,
was returning to town from the river and got into a
passing buggy to ride. Just east of town the team
started to run away. The driver kept the horses in the
road the whole length of Grand avenue, but was thrown
from the buggy in front of the Calkins store. Scott then
either jumped out or was thrown out and the team ran
into the feed yard on the south side of the street and
stopped. The driver, whose name we are unable to
learn, was not severely injured. Scott was picked up
and carried into the office of the feed yard and
physicians were called. No evidence of injury could be
found and the man made no complaint of pain, and it
was thought he would be all right as soon as he
recovered from the shock. An hour or two later,
however he died. Undertaker Hayden took charge of
the body and prepared it for shipment to LaPlata Mo.,
where burial will be made. The deceased was an old
soldier and aged about 60 years.
from the Ponca City Courier, 19 May 1902
COL. BARNETT DEAD. Former Citizen of this
County, at time of death Doorkeeper of the House.-News reaches this office that Col. Wm. Barnett,
formerly of this place, died at Washington, D. C. one
day last week, but no particulars are given. Colonel
Barnett settled two miles east of this city in the early
days, where he lived until going to Washington. He
was an old soldier and lost one leg on the field of battle.
For some time past he has held the position of
Doorkeeper of the house of representatives, and people
who have visited Washington of late years will
remember him as he sat on his stool at the door. Here
he was prominent in social and political circles, and
was held in the highest esteem by the entire community.
from the Ponca City Courier, 19 May 1902
JOHNIE PALMER'S DEATH. Full Account of the
Drowning of Little Indian Boy last Wednesday. -- The
Osage Journal of last week contained the following
account of the drowning of Johnie Palmer, brief
mention of which was made in the Courier some days
ago.
Johnie Palmer, aged 10 years, son of J. F. Palmer
a prominent attorney of this place, was drowned in
Clear creek near the Catholic convent, on Wednesday
about 12:30 p.m., while attempting to cross the creek on
a small pony belonging to Carl Soderstrom.
Johnie was going across to a pasture to get his
pony. The creek was considerably swollen and when
the pony he was riding came to the strong current of the
66
creek, wheeled and started back for the bank and threw
Johnie off into the water.
Carl Soderstrom mounted his pony as soon as it
returned to the shore and rode back into the creek and
made an effort to save the drowning boy, but all to no
purpose, for he soon washed through a wire fence and
this was a far as Carl could go on his pony. Carl then
came into town and notified Johnie's father and others
of the accident and in a few minutes a large crowd had
arrived on the scene ready to aid in any way they could
to save the boy. Barney Plomondon, an uncle of
Johnie, found him in about 30 minutes after he had
fallen into the water.
Dr. Dunn was summoned at once and he with
friends worked hard and faithful for about three hours
trying to save the boy, but the attempt was all in vain as
the life seemed to have been extinct when the body was
recovered.
The parents of the boy are sadly stricken over the
accident and the community greatly shocked.
from the Ponca City Courier, 22 May 1902
KILLED BY LIGHTNING. -- Pete Berry, a farmer
living on Duck creek, near Virginia City, was killed by
lightning in the Ponca country at about three o'clock
yesterday afternoon. He had gone down there to get a
cow and had started to return home with the cow tied
behind the wagon. The bolt which struck him also
killed the cow and one of the horses. Through
ignorance or superstition the body was left lying in the
wagon until this morning, when the coroner arrived.
The deceased was about fifty years of age, and we
understand, unmarried. His aged parents lived with him
on the farm near Virginia City, in this county.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 May 1902
MURDER AND SUICIDE.
Frank Wilson, an
Employee on Tonk smith's Ranch, Kills a Man; Fatally
Shoots his Wife and Kills Himself. Arkansas City,
May 24.--One of the most cold-blooded crimes in the
annals of this city was committed between 10 and 11
o'clock this morning at the home of Mrs. Sarah
Favorite, on West chestnut avenue. Two men are dead
and a woman, the wife of one of the men, lies at the
point of death in her mother's house.
The author of the crime was Frank Wilson, whose
body lies in Gilroy's undertaking parlors beside the
body of one of his victims, Abner Canter [last name
Kinter in follow up article].
The story of the crime, as secured from Mrs.
Favorite, is as follows: Her daughter, Lillian, married
Frank Wilson seven years ago and to this union was
born three children, two of who are living at this time,
one having died a few years ago. They lived in
Arkansas City a short time after their marriage and then
moved to a farm near Silverdale. For the past two years
they have been making their home on Tonk Smith's
ranch in the territory, and Wilson had a job doing work
about the place. Mrs. Wilson did the cooking for the
men, seven or eight in number and among whom was
Abner Canter.
Wilson and wife have not lived happily together
for a number of years and he has often threatened to kill
her. He was insanely jealous and made life miserable
for all parties concerned by his continual quarreling. A
few days ago they decide to separate for good and Mrs.
Wilson was coming to live with her mother in this city.
Canter was secured to drive one of the teams that
carried their household effects, two wagons being
required. Mrs. Wilson rode with her husband, who
drove the other team. They arrived yesterday afternoon
and the wagons were unloaded at the Favorite home.
Last night Wilson was particularly quarrelsome
and insisted upon talking to his wife. She slept
downstairs with her mother and Wilson stayed upstairs
with one of Mrs. Favorite's sons. Before retiring he
begged to be allowed to occupy a room with his wife,
but they were afraid of him and this was not permitted.
He offered to let them search him, and insisted that he
had no gun. He got mad several times and threatened to
exterminate the whole family.
He was quieted
somewhat and about 11 o'clock they all retired.
Wilson slept very little and spent most of the night
looking out of the window and walking about the room.
This morning he came up town early and his wife
follow a little while later, she having some business to
transact. She returned home before he did and was at
work building a wire chicken yard when he came.
Canter, who was preparing to go back to the ranch
offered to help her and was also at work on the yard
when Wilson returned.
Wilson went to the barn and was standing about
twenty-five feet from Canter when Mrs. Favorite's
attention was attracted by hearing Canter say: "Frank,
put that gun down.," She turned just in time to see
Wilson fire twice and Canter fall. She started toward
him when he said to her: "Keep back, mother, or you
will get hurt." He then turned to his wife who was
some distance from canter and near the barn, and
lowered his gun to fire. She screamed and turned to
run. He shot twice at her and she fell. Mrs. Favorite
called to some neighbors, and they started toward the
scene. Just then Frank, with his left hand placed the
gun to his head and fired. He fell to the ground dead.
In his had he still grasped the smoking weapon which
had done such fatal work.
During all this time, which probably did not cover
a minute, Wilson did not move out of his tracks, except
to turn toward his wife. He was facing her body when
he fired the shot that ended his own life. Mrs. Wilson
was taken into the house and Dr. Brecount called.
The officers were notified and at once went to the
house to take charge. The bodies were left lying just
where they fell until Judge Kreamer, who then took
charge, reached the scene.
Canter was lying on his face. Two bullet holes
were in his body, one striking him in the stomach and
going straight through and coming out on the left side
of the backbone. The other entered the small of the
back and on the right side of the backbone. It is evident
that after the first shot was fired he had turned around
either in falling, or to run, when the second shot hit
him. He turned again and fell face downward on the
ground. He is a man about 30 years of age and is
powerfully built. He would make nearly two of
Wilson's size.
Mrs. Wilson was shot twice, the first one breaking
the bones of her left arm, and the other entering her
back and passing entirely through the body. She
continued to run from her husband until the second shot
was fired.
Wilson placed the muzzle of the gun to his left
temple and fired. His skull was torn in a dozen places.
He fired all the shots with his left hand, being
crippled in his right. Every shot took effect. The gun
was a 44-calibre revolver and there was only one
cartridge left unexploded in the chamber.
Wilson formerly drove a dray for R. F. Fitzpatrick.
He was 33 years old. Mrs. Favorite is of the opinion
that Wilson was drunk when he reached home. He has
never had any trouble with Canter until this morning.
They had not word heard, by anybody, until those
reported by Mrs. Favorite.
Dr. Brecount, after a thorough examination of the
wounds received by Mrs. Wilson, said it would be
impossible for her to Live.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 May 1902
ARKANSAS CITY TRAGEDY. The Body of Kinter
Taken Charge of by G. W. Cook--Mrs. Wilson Dying.
The Arkansas City Traveler, 26th., continues the
account of the tragedy at that place as follows:
Saturday night County Attorney Torrence and
Coronor Holcomb came down from Winfield to hold an
inquest over the remains of Wilson and the man he
murdered. The story as appeared in the Traveler
Saturday was complete with the exception of a few
details. The murdered man's name is A. B. Kinter,
instead of Canter.
At the inquest it was developed that after Kinter
was shot the first time he threw a hatchet at Wilson and
started toward him when the second shot struck him.
Mrs. Wilson says that after her husband had shot her
the first time in the arm, he stepped in front of her and
fired with the gun about three from her body.
The jury found that Wilson had murdered Kinter,
attempted to kill his wife and then had committed
suicide.
Last night G. W. Cook, foreman of Tonk Smith's
ranch, and Dick Barger, one of the men at the ranch
came to this city to look after the remains of Kinter.
They throw considerable light on the case.
67
A Traveler reporter saw Cook and learned the
following facts:
Kinter has been an employee of the ranch for
several months and was well liked young man. He
saved his money and owns considerable stuff. He was
a hard worker and a good man on the ranch.
Wilson was jealous of his wife and had made
threats against several of the men on the place at
different times. He and Kinter had numerous quarrels
on the ranch but aside from a wordy war, nothing ever
came of it down there.
Wilson told numerous times that he caught a man
in compromising position with the woman last January
but when she cried and promised to do better he forgave
her and the very next day he caught the same man
again. Since that time he has accused nearly every man
on the ranch with being guilty of illicit relations with
her. Once he went to Newkirk and bought a gun with
the stated determination of cleaning out the place.
He was not believed to be a bad man, but was
looked upon as being a sort of "bluffer." He made
numerous "shoot talks" and it came to be a common
thing down there to hear of his threat to kill someone.
The men on the ranch did not believe that Kinter was
any more guilty than some of the others. He and his
wife had continued quarrels and they came to be of
such frequent occurrence that little attention was paid to
them.
Friday morning when they left the ranch they had
all their furniture on a hay rack and about half a mile
from the ranch the load upset. Kinter who was helping
him pull the load over the roads, then went back to the
ranch and hitched up to his own wagon. The load was
then divided and they came to Arkansas City.
Kinter's mother lives in Richardson county, Neb.
and Mrs. Cook telegraphed to the sheriff of that county,
telling him to notify her.
Frank Wilson was buried this afternoon in
Riverview cemetery. He was the son of Dr. Wilson,
deceased of Walker, Iowa. His mother is still living
and he has one brother in Iowa. He was always wild
and his relatives have spent large sums of money upon
him in a vain endeavor to get him to reform. His
relatives wired to bury him here and they did not come
to attend the funeral.
Wilson was well raised. He was a cousin to Mrs. J.
H. Guinn of this city. Rev. Ward conducted short
services at the grave this afternoon.
Kinter's mother has not been heard from.
Last night the physician in charge of Mrs. Wilson,
thought she had a good chance to get well, but this
morning her condition was very much worse and there
is but little hope of her living until tomorrow morning.
Complications have set in that will cause her death.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 May 1902
MRS. WILSON DEAD. Last Chapter in the Tragic
Killing of three people at Arkansas City.
68
Last night between 11 and 12 o'clock Mrs. Frank
Wilson, who was shot Saturday morning, by her
husband, died at the home of her mother, Mrs. Sarah
Favorite, on West Chestnut avenue. Death was
peaceful and the wounded woman was conscious to the
last.
She suffered very much and death was probably a
relief from her sufferings. She was buried this
afternoon at 1 o'clock.
The two little children left by Mr. and Mrs. Wilson
will be cared for by their grandmother.
Last evening the remains of A. B. Kinter were
buried in Riverview cemetery. His mother has not
answered the telegram sent to her Sunday night.
This ends the case so far as the people of Arkansas
City are concerned. Frank Wilson's determination was
carried out and his plans were successful. All lie buried
the Riverview cemetery, and thus ends the most tragic
killing that has occurred in Arkansas City for years.
Arkansas City Traveler, 27th.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 May 1902
(Longwood items) Mr. Harrison died at his home
Friday evening and was buried at Oak Grove cemetery
Sunday at three o'clock.
Bess Watson is very sick and at this writing is not
expected to live. She has been moved to John Burford's
on account of the water standing in their house.
from the Ponca City Courier, 12 June 1901
GEORGE B. LOVE DEAD. Was one of the first
Settlers of the Strip and a Prominent citizen. -- The
Arkansas City Traveler, 11, says: Yesterday at 1:30,
George B. Love died at his home two miles east of
Kildare. Last winter he suffered from a severe attack of
the grip and it left him with the quick consumption. He
has been sick for several weeks and he and his relatives
realized that the end was near. The funeral took place
this afternoon at the home with burial in the Newkirk
cemetery.
George B. Love was born in Illinois on October 12,
1866. In 1885, he located in Arkansas city and in 1889
was married to Miss Laura Gould.
He was well known to the people of this city and
was a man who made a friend of everyone. He had
charge of the Y.M.C.A. for several years and was one
of the most popular young men of the city.
When the Cherokee strip was opened to settlement
he secured a fine claim east of Kildare. This he has
improved until it is one of the most valuable in Kay
county.
For the past three years he has been a consistent
member of the Methodist church and has been one of
the foremost workers in the Kildare church. He leaves
a wife and three children two girls, aged 10 and 5 years
and a son aged 8 years. Two other children were born
to Mr. and Mrs. Love but died in infancy. He also
leaves five brothers and two sisters. J. Mack Love, of
this city; Dr. J. D. Love of Gueda Springs; Will Love,
of Joy Ill.; Frank and Hayes Love, of Arkansas City,
and Ella Colville and Mrs. Mary Dodd, of Newkirk.
All were present at the funeral except Will.
The many friends of the deceased will unite with
the Traveler in extending sympathy for the bereaved
relatives.
from the Ponca City Courier, 13 June 1902
KILLED BY LIGHTNING. Two Little Girls Meet
Instant Death. MOTHER SEVERELY HURT. In the
Harvest Field Preparing to go Home when the blow
Fell. -- Between four and five o'clock yesterday
afternoon, on the Hugh Houston lease three miles east
of the Otoe agency and about fifteen miles southeast of
this city, two children of Patrick Lay, one aged 12 and
the other three years, both girls, were instantly killed
by lightning. The elder girl was riding one of the lead
horses on a binder team belonging to her father. The
mother and younger girl went out to the field where the
binder was at work. The elder girl got off her horse,
unhitched the team and placing the little girl on the
other horse for a ride home, got back on her horse
again. This was barely done when the lightning struck,
killing both children and the horses and seriously
injuring the mother. The head of the older girl was split
open and her body terribly burned, and while the marks
were not so plainly visible on the younger girl, both
were killed instantly. The mother standing by was
severely shocked and badly burned, but it is thought
that she will recover.
Undertaker Duncan was
telephoned from Bliss to prepare for the funeral of the
little girls which was to be held today. The death of
these little girls in this manner is one of the saddest
things that has ever occurred in this locality and
sympathy for the afflicted family is felt and expressed
on all sides.
from the Ponca City Courier, 30 June 1902
KILLED BY TRAIN. John Alec, an Ottawa Indian,
Accidentally Killed at Santa Fe Yards. -- Sometime
Saturday night, exact time unknown, an Indian by the
name of John Alec was killed by a train in the Santa Fe
yards at this place. It is not known whether he was
attempting to steal a ride or had got on the track and
was unable to get off. He had been drinking all day
Saturday and is supposed to have been under the
influence of liquor at the time of his death. The
accident was not discovered until Sunday morning and
nothing could be learned as to how it could have
happened. The Indian was about 30 years of age and
came her from Michigan about four years ago, since
which time he has been working on the Cal Sloan
ranch. He was buried this morning.
from the Ponca City Courier, 30 June 1902
James Thomas Jameson, infant son of Mr. and
Mrs. Robert Jameson, died very suddenly Sunday
morning being sick only a few hours. The funeral was
held at 9 o'clock this morning.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 July 1902
Edna, aged eleven years, daughter of Wm. G. Siddons
and wife, living three miles west of town, died at the
home of her parents yesterday. The funeral at the home
at 3:00 this afternoon, conducted by Rev. T. H.
Popplewell.
from the Ponca City Courier, 8 July 1902
DEATH WAS SUDDEN. Dr. R. E. McCandless Dead
in Indian Territory. WAS WELL-KNOWN CITIZEN.
Resided in Perry for many years. --Brother of Geo.
McCandless of Ponca City. -- A telegram received this
morning announced the death of Dr. Robert E.
McCandless of Perry, while on his way home from
Missouri. His brother, George T. McCandless of this
city, left at once for Howe, Indian Territory, and no
particulars of the sudden death have been received up to
the time of going to press.
Dr., McCandless was a prominent physician at
Perry, where he has lived for a number of years. he was
well-known in Ponca city, where he has a host of
friends to whom the news of his sudden death will bring
great sorrow.
from the Ponca City Courier, 8 July 1902
BLEW HIS HEAD OFF. Insanely Jealous Without
Probable Cause. WESLEY GRAHAM IS DEAD.
Goes into a Cornfield and Shoots his Brains Out with a
Shot Gun. -- Yesterday afternoon between 3 and 4
o'clock, at his home on the Kline farm, six miles
northwest of this city, Wesley Graham, aged about
thirty years, killed himself by blowing his brains out
with a shot gun.
Graham came here from Ohio within the last year.
Five months ago he was married to a Miss Lyle of the
neighborhood in which he lived. The couple made their
home on the Kline farm as stated above, and seemed to
be getting along nicely and living happily except for
Graham's unreasonable jealousy of his wife, which
became the neighborhood talk. The wife was regarded
as a most excellent young woman and in no way to
blame for her husband's attitude towards her. Lately he
has become so despondent by brooding over his
domestic affairs that he has threatened a number of
times to kill himself, and yesterday proceeded to put the
threat into execution. The particulars of the case, as we
learn them, are as follows:
Yesterday afternoon Graham said he would haul a
load of wheat to town, and began to get ready to do so.
Between three and four o'clock the report of a gun was
heard by one of the neighbors, who was near by and
who hastened to learn the cause. Going into the edge of
a corn field a few rods from the place, where Graham
had been at work he found the body of the rash and
69
misguided young man. the top of his head had been
blown entirely off and death had been instantaneous.
Other neighbors soon arrived and physicians were sent
for, but of course nothing could be done in the way of
medical assistance. Graham had sat down on the
ground, placed the gun between his knees and leaned
forward so that his forehead rested against the muzzle
and the whole top of the head was blown off by the
discharge.
It was not considered necessary to hold an inquest
and the body was brought to this city and placed in the
Hayden undertaking rooms where it will be prepared
for burial.
Relatives of the deceased living at
Langsville, Ohio, have been notified, but have not yet
been heard from, but it is expected the body will be
shipped to that place for burial. Graham was a Knight
of Pythias in good standing, and the members of that
order in this city are ready to extend all assistance in the
case that may be required.
from the Ponca City Courier, 8 July 1902
OBITUARY. Edna Siddens departed this life at the
home of her parents, Wm. Siddens and wife, three miles
west of town, June 30, 1902 aged eleven years. Edna
was born in Indiana and three years ago came with her
parents to this county.
Since coming here she has attended Sabbath school
and our public schools and had all that knew her for her
friends. Edna had a sweet, sunny disposition: always
ready to greet her friends with a smile, and no unkind
thoughts for anyone. Edna, or "Little Tot" as she was
known at home was a sweet, kind, and obedient child
and how much she will be missed as her little form
sleeps over yonder no one but papa, mamma, brother,
and sisters can know.
With friends on earth we meet in gladness, While
swift the moments fly. Yet ever comes the thought of
sadness, That we must say good-bye.
How joyful is the hope that lingers, When loved ones
cross death's sea, That we, when earth's toils are ended,
With Thee shall ever by.
No parting words shall e'er be spoken, in yonder
home so fair, But songs of joy, and peace and gladness,
We'll sing forever there.
from the Ponca City Courier, 15 July 1902
Johnson Lewis Dead. Johnson Lewis, who was taken
to the sanitarium at Norman some weeks ago from this
place, died there yesterday. It will be remembered that
Lewis was struck on the head with a rock by his
stepson, John Mills, last March, from the effects of
which he seemed to suffer both mentally and
physically, necessitating his removal to the sanitarium.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 July 1902
KILLED AT A DANCE. A Quarrel Between two Men
Leads to Shooting. S. A. LESSART IS KILLED. The
Body is Brought to town--Funeral and Burial
70
Tomorrow. -- Last Saturday night a bowery dance was
held at Bill Papan's place on Doga creek, 18 miles east
of this city, which was attended by the young people for
many miles around. The dance lasted all night, and at
about four o'clock Sunday morning a young man named
Ernest Shoemaker objected to Lessart wearing his hat
while on the dancing floor, saying that no gentleman
would do so. At this, according to the report we have
from an eye witness, Lessart struck at Shoemaker and
the latter began backing off. This he continued to do,
Lessart following him up, until he come to the bank of
the creek a few yards away, when he jumped down the
bank, leaving Lessart standing above him. At this
point, Shoemaker pulled a gun and shot Lessart in the
breast, killing him almost instantly. Shoemaker, who
was working on a farm in the neighborhood, went to
his employer's place, stole a horse and saddle from the
barn, and made good his escape.
The body of Lessart was brought to town Sunday
night and is being prepared for burial by Undertaker
Hayden. The funeral, which will be held at 7 o'clock
tomorrow morning, will be conducted by the K. of P.
lodge of this city, of which the deceased was a member,
and the burial will be made in the Kaw cemetery
northeast of town.
Akan Lessart, the murdered man, is about 27 years
of age and is a member of a prominent Osage family,
his father being Frank Lessart. He was a married man
and had a number of children, the family residing near
the Catholic church in this city. He was regarded as a
peaceable man and a good citizen. Shoemaker, who did
the shooting, is a young man of whom little is known
here. He has worked in a restaurant in town and at odd
jobs for farmers in the surrounding country. As near as
we can learn he has the reputation of a trifling sort of
fellow rather than quarrelsome or dangerous. It is
supposed that whiskey had more or less to do with the
trouble. At last accounts no trace had been found of
him, though pursuing parties were out in all directions
A rather peculiar incident of the affair is that the
murdered man's father and mother, who had been
visiting at Stillwell, returned home and drove up to the
house at the same time that the hearse containing the
body of their son arrived at the door, this being the first
intimation they had of the trouble which had befallen
them.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 July 1902
An infant child of Mr. Easterly died yesterday and
was buried in the Odd Fellow's cemetery at 2 o'clock
this afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 July 1902
The little daughter of Wm. Weidower, aged 20
months, which s been sick for some weeks past, died at
four o'clock this morning. The funeral will be held at
the home at 7:30 tomorrow morning--burial in the Odd
Fellow's cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 August 1902
Blanche Doolin, born September 4, 1902, died August
5, 1902, aged 4 years 11 months and 1 day. Funeral at
2 p.m. today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 August 1902
A little child of Wm. Townsend, on north Seventh
street, died Sunday morning and was buried in the
afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 August 1902
Mrs. Charles Jennings died at the temporary
home of the family on south Fifth street at 11 o'clock
this morning, of a complication of diseases, aged about
45 years. The family had returned within the last few
days from a trip to Colorado and New Mexico for the
benefit of Mrs. Jenning's health, which had been bad for
some time past, when she took cold and pneumonia set
in, which in her weakened condition she was unable to
contend with. She leaves a husband and five children,
the youngest being about 8 years of age. The family is
well and favorable known here and has many friends
who sympathize with them in their affliction. The
funeral will not be held until friends at a distance can be
notified and arrive, which will require three or four
days.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 August 1902
UNKNOWN MAN DEAD. Found on the Street
Yesterday Afternoon. DIED IN ROOMING HOUSE.
The Body at Hayden's Undertaking Rooms Awaiting
Identification.
At about one o'clock yesterday afternoon a man
was found in the street near George Brett's store on the
corner of First street and Grand avenue, in a condition
of deathly sickness. Dr. J. H. Schenck was called and
had the man removed to Baxter's rooming house on
South First street. He was suffering from a severe
attack of cholera morbus, from which medical
assistance came to late to relieve him, and he died at
about one o'clock today. Nobody can be found who
knows who he is or where he came from. A slip of
paper found in his pocket had on it the name of James
McCarthy, and seemed to be an account for labor, but
furnished no further information. A pocketbook in one
of his pants pockets contained $3.25 in money, but
nothing else. The man wore only a colored cotton shirt,
jeans pants, and shoes and stockings, and had no other
clothing or articles of any kind with him. He seemed
aversed [sic] to talking and nothing could be learned of
his identity, except that he was a single man and had
been working with a threshing outfit. The body was
taken to Hayden's undertaking rooms, where it will be
embalmed and held for identification. The man is
described as follows: Height, 5 feet 6 inches; weight,
about 145 pounds; light complexion and hair; heavy
mustache; appears to be about 35 years old.
[An article in the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 August
1902 notes: All efforts to discover the identity of the
stranger who died at the Baxter rooming house in this
city some days ago have failed, the body was yesterday
buried in the Odd Fellows cemetery by Undertaker
Hayden.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 August 1902
Card of thanks. We desire to return our sincere thanks
to the friends and neighbors who so kindly extended
assistance and sympathy in the sickness and at the death
of Mrs. Charles Jennings. Mrs. Bevell, Tena and
Lilie Wilds.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 August 1902
Undertaker Hayden sent a casket to Red Rock this
evening for the infant child of Geo. Wells of that
place, which died last night and was buried today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 August 1902
Undertaker Hayden reports the death of an 11
months old child of Section Foreman Duncan of White
Eagle, last night and burial today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 August 1902
DEAD OF OLD AGE. Aunt Phoebe Prettyhair,
Supposed to be the Oldest Member of Osage Tribe.
Aunt Phoebe Prettyhair, said to be more than one
hundred years of age, and probably the oldest member
of Osage tribe, died last night at her home twelve miles
southeast of this city, of old age. The land belonging to
the Prettyhair family is leased to Porter Moss, and is
now known as the Moss ranch. "Aunt Phoebe," as she
was known, has long been a prominent character of the
tribe, and was highly respected, not only be her own
people, but by her white neighbors as well. She seems
to have been a woman who possessed in a high degree
all the kindly feelings and womanly traits of her sex,
and her good deeds are known far and wide.
It is told of her that she took a white child which
had been deserted by its parents, cared for and reared it
as her own, and when some years later the relatives
claimed it, the child refused to go and remained with its
foster mother. This child is now a young lady, highly
educated and accomplished, and would be a creditable
representative of the most refined white family in the
territory.
"Aunt Phoebe" will be buried today, her funeral
will be attended by many sincere mourners, and the
memory of her good and useful life will be cherished by
all who cam within its benign influence.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 August 1902
Franklin M. Day died at his home in or near Cross
last night and was buried from the Christian church at
two o'clock this afternoon. Rev. T. H. Popplewell
preaching the funeral sermon. The funeral was in
charge of the Masonic order, of which the deceased was
a member, and was largely attended. We hope to be
71
able to give obituary and further particulars in
tomorrow's paper.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 September 1902
The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Lee Hurst, 400 south
Eight street, aged 7 months and 5 days, died last Friday
night at 9:30 o'clock, of whooping cough and
pneumonia, and the infant child of Mr. and Mrs.
Arthur Hurst, in the same house, died of the same
disease at 4:05 on the morning of the 20th, aged 3
months and 2 days. The funeral of both children was
held from the house, services by Rev. E. S. Raffand,
pastor of the Presbyterian church. Misses Della and
Alice King, of Gerard, Kansas, and Mrs. Mary
McMahan, of Edmond, Oklahoma, relatives of the
families were at the funeral. The following pupils of
the public schools were selected as pall-bearers: Minor
Hickman, Errett Mers, Earl Beard, and Harry Roberts.
[According to Kay County Cemetery Inscriptions the
children's names were Earnest Hurst (b. 15 June 1902d. 18 September 1902, and William Hurst (b. 20
February 1902-d. 20 September 1902.)]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 September 1902
A little child of John Pereau; living in the Wylde
addition, died yesterday and was buried from the
Catholic church at 2 o'clock this afternoon. [Kay
County Cemetery Inscriptions identifies two Pereau
children who died near this date: Alice, 13 October
1901-23 September 1902, and Andrew, 19 September
1900-24 September 1902.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 September 1902
Robert McMillian, aged 23 years, died at the
home of Frank Seely on North Seventh street at 11
o'clock this morning. He was recovering from typhoid
fever and was able to be about, when he was taken
suddenly worse and died in less than ten minutes. He
had recently returned from service in the Philippines,
and was here on a visit. The body is being prepared at
Hayden undertaking rooms for shipment to his home in
Illinois.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 October 1902
By telephone message from Newkirk this morning,
we learn that Chris Farrell died in the county jail at
that place last night. No particulars are given. Farrell
has run a butcher shop in this city off and on for the last
eight or nine years, and a few days ago was arrested on
complaint of the meat inspector for some violation of
the inspection law and taken before the court at
Newkirk, where he was assessed a light fine. He got
stubborn and refused to pay the fine and lodge in jail,
where he died. He has been a great sufferer from
rheumatism for some time past, and probably died from
that disease. He was a single man, aged about 35 years,
and was at one time a very popular and prosperous
citizen of this place.
72
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 October 1902
The twin babes of C. T. Foster died at the home
on North Seventh street yesterday [26 September] and
were buried today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 October 1902
A child of Philip Bressie, aged two days, died at
the home of the parents four miles southwest of town,
last Saturday [25 October] and was buried Sunday.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 November 1902
Obituary.--Lynn P. Fouts, the youngest son of Salem
Fouts, died at the Fouts home seven miles southwest of
Ponca City on October 21, 1902, and was laid to rest in
the I. O. O. F. cemetery October 23.
Lynn had been for some time in ill health, and,
with his father and mother, spent a portion of the past
summer in the Colorado mountains, with the hope that
the high attitude (sic) of that section might restore him
to health and strength. Through his period of affliction
he was ever patient and when death's angel came to
claim him as his own he passed from the circle of loved
ones peacefully and wholly happy in the faith of Him
who suffered on Calvary.
Lynn P. Fouts was in the early morn of young
manhood, being at the time of his death, 18 years, 9
months, and 24 days old. By neighbors, friends, and
schoolmates thoroughly loved, because of his sterling
character, he will be sadly missed by those who knew
him best. To his father, mother, brothers and sister, and
the host of sorrowing friends, we offer our tenderest
largesse of sympathy.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 5 November 1902
(from Longwood Items) The infant child of Mr.
Helton died Wednesday [29 October] and was buried in
the Longwood Cemetery.
Mrs. Geo. Reese died at her home in Peckham a
few days ago. She was one of Turkey creek's earliest
settlers and has many friends here who will be pained to
learn of her death. Her body was laid to rest in the Oak
Grove cemetery.
A child of Mr. Burell died at the home of its
parents six miles east of town Saturday. Funeral
services by M. L. Smith and interment in Longwood
cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 November 1902
Died.--J. F. Hood died at Kansas City last Wednesday
at 5 a.m., of cancer of the head, an operation having
been performed for the cure. The remains were brought
to Ponca City and buried in the Odd Fellows cemetery
at 11 a. m. today [Thursday]. A brother, John Hood
and wife, of Jackson county, accompanied the remains
here. The deceased has a lease in the Ponca country
three and one-half miles southwest of the city. He
leaves a wife and three children, all boys, ages 16, 17,.
and 11 to mourn his loss.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 November 1902
IS IT SUICIDE? Mrs. Cora Bresher Found Dead with
a Bullet Hole in her Breast.--Yesterday afternoon at
about half-past 2 o'clock the report was brought to town
that Mrs. Cora Bresher had shot herself at the Frisbie
Irwin place, a mile south of town. A physician was
summoned but arrived to late to be of assistance, the
woman was dead.
A boy about 14 years old, a brother of the dead
woman, says he was digging peanuts near the house
when he heard a shot, and going into the house found
his sister and her 15 months-old child on the bed, his
sister with a bullet hole in her breast and the child
bleeding from a wound in its cheek. He notified his
elder brother, who was in the field some distance away
and then came to town and gave the alarm.
A 32 caliber revolver was found on a dresser near
the bed, with one chamber empty. It was found on
examination that the woman had been shot in the breast
near the heart and that the child had evidently been
struck in the cheek with the same bullet, leaving the
impression that the child was nursing when the shot
was fired the wound in the child's cheek is only a slight
flesh wound.
An inquest is being held, but nothing has yet been
learned as to the findings.
The parents of the dead woman, Frisbie Irwin and
wife, were at Anadarko and have been notified, but
have not yet arrived. It is understood that Mrs. Bresher
and her husband have not lived happily together, and he
is not here at this time, his present whereabouts being
unknown.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 Nov 1902
Wm. Warner, aged 62 years who has been
employed as a blacksmith on the R. M. Bressie ranch in
the Otoe country, died today at the rooming house of
Kate Ryan on South First street, of appendicitis. He is
a man without family or relatives here, but it is
understood that he has two sons in the Cherokee
country.
The bodies being held at the Hayden
undertaking rooms until such time as directions for
burial may be received.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 November 1902
Mrs. A. J. Symms, wife of the M. E. missionary at
the Ponca Agency, died last night, aged about 55 years.
The body will be buried in the I. O. O. F. cemetery at
this place at 2 o'clock tomorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 November 1902
Died--Sunday last, the three months old baby of
Mr. and Mrs. Jeff House, of the Osage Nation. The
funeral services were conducted in the residence of Mr.
Crummet in this city Monday and the remains laid to
rest in the Odd Fellow's cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 December 1902
Death of Dr. Frank VanScholack. Dr. Frank H.
VanScholack died at the home of his brother Dr. J. H.
Cock, in this city, at 11 o'clock last night of
consumption, aged 39 years.
Dr. Van Scholack came to this city from Ottawa,
Kansas, in the month of September 1901, and entered
into partnership with Dr. J. H. Cock in the practice of
medicine and surgery, the firm becoming at that time
proprietors of the Ponca City [unreadable text] which
they conducted successfully until Dr. VanScholack's
health failed. Last February it became apparent that his
health was seriously impaired and his father, the elder
Dr. Van Scholack came here from Ottawa, Kansas, and
accompanied by Dr. Cock, took his son to Colorado in
the hope of benefiting his health by change of climate.
The change seemed to be decidedly beneficial for a
time, and his friends cherished the hope that complete
recovery would result. But, the gain proved to be only
temporary, and on the 11the of last September he was
brought back here to receive the devoted care of his
father and sister in his last days.
Dr. Frank VanScholack was a young man of great
promise and stood high in the ranks of his chosen
profession. During his short residence here he made
many friends who mourn with the bereaved relatives his
untimely death.
The sorrowing father leaves tonight with the
remains for the old home in Ottawa, Kansas, where the
body of the son will be laid to rest beside that of the
mother, who died some years ago.
[A lengthy tribute appears in the 11 December 1902
Ponca City Daily Courier which notes Dr. Van
Scholack was born in Putnam County, Indiana. When a
child he came to Ottawa, Kansas, with his parents. He
was schooled at the University Medical College of
Kansas City, Missouri. He practiced in Caldwell,
Kansas for five years before returning to Ottawa to
enter practice with his father, Dr. J. G. VanScholack.
Another obituary containing the same information also
appears in the Ponca City Democrat of 11 December
1902.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 December 1902
Editor A. C. Smith of the Democrat received a
telegram this morning that his sister had died at Elk
City yesterday and that the body would be interred at
Arkansas City today. Editor Smith and family left for
Arkansas City this morning to be present at the funeral
and Interment.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 December 1902
DETERMINED TO DIE. Man Kills himself at the
Pampas Hotel. USES COMMON POCKET-KINFE.
Cuts Ugly Gashes in His Neck, in the Abdomen and
Wrists. -- Saturday afternoon a man came to the
Pampas hotel on south First street and registered as F.
Simmons, giving no place of residence. He had no
73
baggage of any kind. He remained at the hotel that
night and had supper and breakfast and dinner the next
day. Sunday afternoon he said he was not feeling well
and went to his room. Sunday evening he was called
for supper but failed to respond and nothing more was
thought of it until he failed to come to breakfast his
morning, and even then it was thought he would be
down later. At about ten o'clock this morning the clerk
went to his room and pounded on the door but received
no answer. The door was then broken open. On
entering the room the body of the man was found lying
on the bed face downward and the bed clothes pulled up
over the head. Examination showed that the man was
dead and had been for some hours, as the body was cold
and stiff. It was a plain cases of suicide. With a
common pocket knife with a sharp point, the man had
cut three gashes in the left side of his neck, two in the
right side, stabbed a hole in the windpipe, made two
wounds in the abdomen and slashed deep cuts in both
wrists.
The knife was still grasped in the right hand with a
death grip, requiring a strong effort to release it. On the
body was found $35 in cash and a deposit certificate of
$135 issued by First National Bank of this city and that
was all. The coroner was notified but decided that an
inquest was unnecessary, as there could be no doubt
that it was a plain case of suicide.
At first nobody could be found who recognized the
dead man, but later a woman who is employed in the
family of S. J. Soldani, Mrs. Rixie by name, identified
the body as that of her brother, and another sister living
in Rice county, Kansas, was also notified by telegraph.
Mrs. Rixie says that her brother, whose name is Fred
Simmons has been working for farmers in this vicinity
for some months past, and she knows of no reason for
the rash act which ended his life. There is a report
about that he had been speculating on the board of trade
and lost money, but the report can not be verified.
He was a single man apparently 35 years of age,
medium height heavy set, light complexioned and with
reddish hair. The body is that of a man of good bodily
health and strong muscular power. The body was
removed to Hayden undertaking rooms, where it is
being held until the relatives can be heard from.
[Another news story of this suicide appears in the 11
December 1902 issue of the Ponca City Democrat,
which notes the deceased man's name was Frank
Simmons, and indicates his body was buried in the
I.O.O.F. Cemetery.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 December 1902
Obituary. Ota May Smith was born May 23, 1874, at
Bloomfield, Davis Co., Iowa. She was married March
5, 1902 at Arkansas City, Kansas, to A. J. Villars.
Died December 5, 1902, at Elk City, O. T., which has
been her home since her marriage.
The remains were taken to Arkansas City for
interment and laid to rest in Riverview cemetery. Rev.
74
McDonald, pastor of the First Baptist church, took
charge of the funeral ceremony. The deceased had been
a member of the church since she was 17 years of age.
The sad intelligence of her death came as a might
shock to the many friends of Ota Smith in Arkansas
City, where she had grown from childhood to
womanhood, and was beloved by all who knew her.
Only a few months ago she left there a radiant,
happy bride, but now she returns overtaken by the silent
reaper, and all that sorrowing friends can do is to place
on the casket the fragrant blossoms which must fade
and die all too soon, even as her sweet young life has
faded.
A husband, two brothers, Mr. S. M. Smith of
Oklahoma City and A. C. Smith of this[Ponca City]
city, and three sisters, Mrs. Margret Bell of Bloomfield,
Iowa, Mrs. J. O. Lindly, Elk City, O. T. and Mrs. B. H.
Rigg of Arkansas city, are left to mourn. N.V.S.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 December 1902
Mrs. Anna Stoff, wife of Augustus Stoff, died at
her home six miles northwest of town on Wednesday
night, [10 December] and will be buried from the
Catholic church in this city at 10 o'clock a.m.
tomorrow. Her father, Benjamin Welling, and her
husband's father, Wm. Stoff, are here from Illinois to
attend the funeral.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 December 1902
Death of Mrs. Dodd. Some Particulars of the Sad
Accident Near Newkirk Saturday Night. -- The
Arkansas City Traveler, 22nd, says: Late Saturday
night J. Mack Love received a telephone message from
Newkirk telling of the death of his sister, Mrs. Mary
Dodd, who lives on a farm two miles west of Newkirk.
Before her marriage to Ed. Dodd, she was Miss
Mary Love and was well known in Arkansas City,
having made her home here for several years.
The manner of the accident is a matter of
conjecture, as she was alone. Saturday afternoon she
left home and went to Newkirk to do some shopping,
and left her husband and baby at home. She intended to
return not later than dusk and drove a young horse that
was considered quite safe.
Her husband did his work about the place and
waited for Mrs. Dodd to return. When dark came and
she did not return the husband became a little uneasy
and decided to look for her. He then went across the
road to the home of Mrs. Dodd's sister and asked her to
go over to his house and remain with the baby until he
returned. He set out down the road toward Newkirk.
About a half a mile or little further from the house he
found his wife's hat and one rubber lying by the side of
the road. From these he concluded that something had
happened and also that she had passed that point. He
then followed the road until he came to the farm of Mrs.
Dodd's father, which is a little more than a quarter of a
mile from the place where the hat and rubber were
found. He went to the Love farm and told the folks
what he had found. Lanterns were procured and a
search commenced. It was probably half an hour from
that time until someone went around back of the Love
barn and found the horse and buggy there.
The horse had been running in the Love pasture
and it was quite natural that he should go into their
yard. When found, the buggy was lodged between a
tree and a wagon, there being just enough space to
allow the horse to pass through, but not enough for the
buggy. Here a horrible sight met them. The body of
Mrs. Dodd was lying face upward upon the left side of
the buggy. Her head rested upon the front hub and axle
and one foot was caught under the seat of the buggy.
Her hair was wrapped around the hub of the buggy so
tight that it had locked the wheel. One arm and one leg
were broken and there is upon the left side of her head a
hoof mark, where she was kicked by the horse.
Investigation showed that the wheel had been locked all
the distance from the place there the hat and rubber
were found.
The horse had been there for some time, as was
shown by the conditions of the ground. Nothing about
the buggy was broken except the iron fastenings on the
shafts and it is believed the horse broke these in his
efforts to free himself after the buggy had been stopped.
Nothing further of the accident is known. She may
have dropped a rein and in reaching for it fallen from
the buggy, or she may have been thrown out. A short
distance from the place where the hat was found the
tracks indicate that the horse was plunging or jumping,
He probably did not run at all. A neighbor who saw the
rig pass a little distance from that point, observed that
the horse was pulling hard and remarked to his wife that
Dodd was working the colt pretty hard in the mud. It
was dark and he could not tell whether anything was
wrong or not, in fact, did not notice anything further.
At the home of J. R. Sheets, who lives a little
distance from Newkirk, Mrs. Dodd stopped, tied the
horse and removed a piece of wire from one of the
buggy wheels. during this time she talked with Mrs.
Sheets and as soon as she had finished started on her
way home. The Sheets place is about three quarters of
a mile from the place where the hat was found.
The deceased has a host of friends in Arkansas City
who will regret to learn of her death. She leaves a
husband and ten months old baby. The funeral services
will be held at the Presbyterian church in Newkirk
tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 January 1903
Died.--Raymond the 3 year old son of Mr. and
Mrs. James Crook, died of membranous croop, Friday
morning, Dec 26, at 8 0'clock. The funeral was
conducted by Rev. R. E. Myers at 3 o'clock the same
day and the remains were laid to rest in the Odd
Fellows cemetery. "Lay him in the earth and from his
fair and unpolluted flesh may violets spring."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 January 1903
James O. Kelso died at his home in the northeast
part of the city yesterday, of catarrh of the stomach,
aged about 74 years. He came here last summer from
Coffeyville, Kansas, and opened a shoe shop in the
little building east of the Courier office. He was a
pleasant old gentleman and soon had plenty to do, but
early in the winter was taken sick and has been unable
to work more than part of the time since. He leaves a
wife, who resides here, and a large family of children,
all married and away from home. The body was
shipped today from the Duncan undertaking rooms to
Mulhall, where two of his sons, who were here when he
died, reside, and where burial will be made.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 January 1903
Mrs. W. D. Vinson died at her home in the Wylde
addition at 1 o'clock p.m. yesterday of heart failure
following a long illness, She was 62 years of age, and a
widow. Short services will be held at the house at 10
o'clock a. m. tomorrow, and the body will be shipped to
Perry for burial. Two daughters were with her at home,
one son is employed at the Whiteagle Agency and
another daughter lives at Perry.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 15 January 1903
Died--Tuesday afternoon, at her home in the
Wylde addition, Mrs. W. D. Vinson, of heart failure.
Deceased was 52 years old and had been a long
sufferer. The remains will be taken to Perry for
interment. She leaves three daughters and a son to
mourn her loss.
from the Ponca City Courier, 15 January 1903
Longwood News. Mrs. Jim Smith and her three
children are reported better. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have
the sympathy of all in the death of their fifteen year old
daughter and their oldest son of typhoid fever.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 January 1903
DEATH OF I. SHIRE. The father of B. M. Shire
Passes Away on Sunday, January 11.
The Salisbury, Mo., Press-Spectator of the 16th
has the following obituary of I. Shire, father of our
townsman, B. M. Shire, who died at his home in that
city last Sunday:
A LIFE WELL SPENT. This can truly be said of Uncle
I. Shire, who departed this life at his home in
Salisbury, Sunday night, January 11, 1903, at the ripe
old age of eighty-three years. Deceased was born at
Dierdorf, Germany, near Coblenz, on the Rhine, April
4, 1820. He came to America in 1849, and on January
2 had been married to the good woman who survives
him, fifty-three years. Their first home was in
Philadelphia, yet during the past twenty-four years they
lived happily together in Salisbury. To this union
children were born as follows: Mrs. J. Myer, Joe,
Albert, Mose, Eli, and Charlie all of whom have ever
75
been a credit to their father's name. The life of our
departed friend was an open book, known and read of
all men who enjoyed his acquaintance. He loved his
wife, his children, his home, and humanity, and much
of his last days was given to works of charity. He was a
friend to the poor and needy, and for a number of years
had charge of the charity fund of this city, and always
managed this business creditably, and was never known
to turn a deaf ear to the worthy in need or distress.
Rabbi Sale of St. Louis arrived here Saturday
night, and on the following morning he held short
services at the residence, and at 11 o'clock concluded
the same in the presence of a crowded assemblage at
the Methodist Episcopal church. The services here
began with a sweet solo, "Face to Face," by Mrs. P. E.
Wilhite. Rabbi Sale then delivered a beautiful and
touching tribute to the memory of the departed one,
commending his many virtues and the plain and
unpretentious life of this good man. The speaker's talk
impressed the thought that righteousness consists in
right living, in pure and high-minded life, and in the
observance of the brotherhood of man. He is broad and
liberal in his religion, and recognizes merit and
righteousness wherever found. He says that we are all
children of the Divine Creator, and admonished all to
live pure and noble lives.
At the conclusion of the services the remains were
taken to the train and carried to Columbia where they
were consigned to mother earth.
Those in attendance from a distance were Al Shire,
Lincoln, Kansas; Mose Shire, Ponca City, O.T., Mrs.
Sol Barth, Oklahoma City, O.T., Dr. Sesse Myer, St.
Louis; Dr. Max W. Myer, Columbia; A. Haas, St.
Louis; Alex Myer and Joe Barth, St. Louis; Morris and
Felix Strouse, Mr. Openheimer, and Mr. Woolfe, of
Glasgow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 January 1903
Obituary. Mrs. Martha Vinson died at Ponca City,
Oklahoma, January 13, 1903, of heart failure following
a long illness. She was 62 years and 29 days of age,
was born in Lima, Illinois, December 15, 1840, and was
married to W. D. Vinson, at that place, January 25,
1869, who preceded her to the spirit world April 24,
1909 (sic). To this union eleven children were born,
eight girls, and three boys, nine of whom survive her.
Several years ago she professed religion and united
with the Baptist church. She was a woman whom it
was a pleasure to meet; kind and sympathetic, she ever
had a warm feeling for those about her, and ever stood
ready and willing to relieve the suffering and administer
to the wants of the needy. Thus was her life spent, ever
ready to respond, and in her death sorrow will come to
the hearts of those who knew her. A good neighbor, a
kind and loving mother and a true wife. A short funeral
service was held at the home at 10 o'clock Thursday
morning, conducted by Rev. Farrand, and the remains
were taken to Perry for burial. The family and friends
76
have the sympathy of the entire community in their
bereavement. [The same obituary also appears in the
Ponca City Democrat, 22 January 1903.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 January 1903
A GOOD MAN GONE. I. W. West, Father of F. D.
Foutz, Dies at His Home in Kingman, Kansas. -- The
Kingman, Kansas, Leader-Courier, of the 22d. inst.,
has the following account of the death of I. W. West,
Step-father of F. D. Foutz of this city.
Last Friday I. W. West of this city passed
peacefully from this life into the great beyond, after a
long illness through which he suffered patiently and
uncomplainingly. In his last hours he was surrounded
by his family and to each of them he gave his
benediction and left a testimony that it was well with
his soul. Truly a just and perfect man has passed to his
reward.
Those of his family with him in his last hours and
in attendance at his funeral were his sorrowing wife, his
sons Rev. Chas E. West of Redfield, Kansas, Wallace
West and wife of Realey, Kansas, Frank D. Foutz and
wife of Ponca City, Ok., and Homer O. Foutz of
Wichita. Owing to sickness or other unavoidable
circumstances other relatives were prevented being
present.
Funeral services were conducted Sunday afternoon
by his pastor Rev. F. W. Imbonden at the M. E. church
after which his mortal remains were laid to rest in
Walnut Hill cemetery.
Isham W. West was born near Boonville, Warrick
county, Indiana, June 5th, 1822, died in Kingman
January 16th, 1903, aged 80 years, 7 months and 11
days. In early life he was converted to God, and united
with the Methodist Episcopal church, and has faithfully
discharged his Christian duties all through life. Father
West was peculiarly bound to the church of his choice.
His father was one of the early local preachers in
the settlement of Indiana, and did faithful and heroic
work. Besides his father, Mr. West has two brothers
and one brother-in-law in the ministry, one of whom
was a member of the United Brethren church. He also
had two nephews and one great nephew who were
members of the Methodist church, and one of his sons,
C. E. West is a preacher of the Methodist church on the
Redfield charge, South Kansas conference.
In the call to arms in the defense of our country,
Father West was one who gave up his home life for life
in the camp and on the field. He was a member of the
79th Ohio, and also of the 149th Ohio.
For the last twenty years he has lived and toiled
among the people of Kingman, ever having a kind word
for Kingman and her kind people. His presence has
gone from us, but the influence of a godly consecrated
life still remains. His wife, children and friends "Rise
up and call him blessed."
It is with profound sorrow the Leader-Courier
chronicles the death of this good man, for in him it
always found a steadfast friend and safe counselor. His
every day walk and example were worthy of emulation
and the world was made better by his having lived
among us.
heavenly home the beloved mother of our esteemed
neighbor Riley Jefferies, Therefore be it Resolved that
we as a Camp extend to Neighbor Jefferies and family
our heartfelt sympathy in this their hour of sorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 February 1903
The infant child of J. B. Jones, aged six months
died at the home in Wylde addition yesterday and was
buried at three o'clock this afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 March 1903
Obituary. Sedonie Bell Smith daughter of Thomas and
Anaar Dillon was born April 15, 1892 (sic). Departed
this life March 17, 1803 (sic); she was married to John
Smith April 25, 1887; (sic) to this union seven children
were born, two of them have crossed the river and five
survive her yet. She was converted in the year of 1888
and united with the Beaver Creek, Kansas, Baptist
Church where she belonged until she came to her home
in the strip. She united with the Longwood and was a
member until her death. Like Dorcas of old, good
things could be said of her, she was good to the poor,
kind to the sick and sympathizing to the bereaved. She
was sick three months in which time she never was
heard to murmur or complain. She often said that if it
was God's will to take her she was willing to go, and
that the Lord would take care of her children as he had
always taken care of her. In her death the community
has lost a good friend, the children a loving mother, the
husband a devoted wife, and the church on of its best
members.
Funeral services was conducted by M. L. Smith at
Oak Grove where he body was laid to rest. May the
Holy Comforter dwell in the hearts of the loved ones
and may they all prepare to meet her in heaven.
[Cemetery Inscriptions Kay County, Oklahoma notes
her name as Sadone B; gives her birth date as 25 April
1872; and her death date as 17 March 1903.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 February 1903
The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Bryan, on
south second street died last night. The funeral services
were conducted this afternoon at 2 o'clock by Rev. F. S.
Farrand.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 February 1903
Resolutions of Queen City Camp, 2377 R. N. A. on
the death of Opal Morton. Whereas the heavenly
Father has seen fit to remove from this earthly life Baby
Morton, infant daughter of Neighbor Morton of Queen
City Camp 2377 R. N. A., Therefore be it Resolved,
that we deeply deplore the death of little Opal, and
extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family in
their hour of sorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 March 1903
MAN DROWNED.
C. C. Hunt, a Farmer of
Longwood Township, Loses His Life in Turkey Creek.
Last night, C. C. Hunt, a farmer residing about
seven miles northeast of this city drowned in Turkey
Creek. The heavy rain of the early part of the evening
had caused the creek to rise and overflow its banks.
Mr. Hunt went out to his pens to look after his hogs. It
is supposed that while he was trying to save the hogs
from the water which was rising in the pens he fell into
the creek and was drowned. The body was recovered
from the creek this morning, Coroner Morey was
notified later in the day and will probably hold an
inquest this afternoon.
Hunt was a man about 55 years of age and lived
with his wife, who is an invalid, on their farm in
Longwood township. They had one child a grown
daughter, who we are told was not at home at the time
of the accident.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 March 1903
M. G. Gill, who was called to the Hunt place this
morning to help search for the body of the man who
drowned last night, says that the water in Turkey creek
was so high that it reached far up into the branches of
the trees along the banks. The body of the drowned
man was found a few rods below the place where he is
supposed to have fallen into the creek.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 March 1903
M.W.A. RESOLUTIONS. Whereas, God in his infinite
wisdom and love has called from her earthly to
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 April 1903
Obituary. James Harrel was born near Rushville,
Indiana, May 1, 1837; removed with his parents to Iowa
in 1841, where, on Nov. 15, 1856, he was married to
Miss Charlotte Jones, removed in 1879 to Pratt county,
Kansas, and from there to Ponca City about six years
ago. Died at his home in this city on Tuesday, April 7,
1903, at 9 o'clock p. m. aged 66 years. The funeral was
held from the M. E. church at 2:30 o'clock p. m. the
following day, the services being conducted by Rev. R.
E., Myers, pastor of the church, and interment was
made in the city cemetery.
James Harrel and wife were the parents of ten
children, six of whom are living. These are Mrs. L. L.
Crossfield and Mrs. Grant Hanford both of this city.
George, Lee, and Birdie, at home, and William the
eldest son now in Colorado Springs. All of the children
except William were with their father during his long
illness and at his death. Of the six living brothers of the
deceased, four attended the funeral. These are Henry
Harrel of Enid, Oklahoma, Stephen Harrell of Lamar,
Colorado and Doc and Bob Harrel of Pratt, Kansas.
Two other brothers living in Kansas were unable to
attend.
77
James Harrel was an honest, just and charitable
man, beloved by his family and held in the highest
esteem by all who knew him. He was a member of the
Methodist church for forty years, and practiced in his
life the principles of the religion which he professed.
For more than forty-seven years he and the wife of his
youth trod the path of life together and exemplified in
the highest degree the fact that true happiness and
contentment are found only in the home. The aged
wife, though frail in body and sorrowful of the heart, is
sustained by an abiding faith in the promises which
never fail.
The funeral at the Methodist church yesterday
afternoon was largely attended, an evidence of the high
esteem in which Mr. Harrel was held by our people and
of their sympathy for the family and friends in their
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 9 April 1903
Died at his home in Ponca City, Tuesday, April 7,
1903, James Harrel aged 66 years. Mr. Harrel had
been very feeble for some time and his death was not
unexpected. The funeral was held at the M. E. church
Wednesday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, services being
conducted by the pastor, Rev. R. E. Myers, and the
remains laid to rest in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery.
Deceased leaves a wife and six children to mourn his
loss. The children are Mrs. L. L. Crossfield, Mrs. Grant
Hanford, George, Lee, and Birdie all of Ponca City and
William, the oldest son at Colorado Springs. The
sorrowing mother and children have the sympathy of
the entire community in their sad affliction.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 9 April 1903
Thos. Greenwood, one of the pioneer settlers of
this country, died at his home in Whiteagle, Tuesday,
and was buried Thursday in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery,
the funeral services being conducted by the Masonic
lodge of Ponca City, of which deceased was a member.
Mr. Greenwood was also a member of the Odd Fellows.
He had friends by the score in the city who extend their
heartfelt sympathy to the sorrowing family who are left
to mourn his death.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 April 1903
Mrs. Jessie Dull, eldest daughter of S. A. Hazen
and wife of this city, died at her home in Fairfax, Osage
nation, last Saturday evening at 7 o'clock, in childbirth,
aged 21 years. The body was brought to the home of
her parents in this city, where the funeral was held on
Monday at 10 o'clock a. m., Rev. R. E. Myers, pastor of
the Methodist church, preaching the funeral sermon,
and interment was made in the city cemetery. The
family has the sympathy of the entire community in the
great affliction which has befallen them.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 23 April 1903
Died--At her home at Fairfax, O.T., in the Osage
78
reservation, Saturday, April 18, 1903, Mrs. Jessie Dull
of childbirth. The remains were brought to Ponca City,
Sunday. The funeral services were conducted from the
home of S. A. Hazen, Monday, the sermon preached by
Rev. R. E. Myers, of the M. E. church and the remains
laid to rest in the I. O. O. F. cemetery. Deceased was
21 years of age and the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S. A.
Hazen of this city. The grief stricken husband, parents
and brothers and sisters have the sympathy of their
many friends in the city in their sad hour of
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 April 1903
DEATH OF GEO. W. MILLER.
George W. Miller, manager of the 101 ranch near
this city, died at his home on the ranch at 2:30 o'clock
on Saturday, April 25, 1903, of pneumonia, aged 61
years and 20 days. Short funeral services were held at
the house on Sunday at 9 o'clock a.m. conducted by
Rev., Sims, Methodist missionary at the Ponca Agency,
and the body was shipped to Crab Orchard, Kentucky,
the home of the family for burial. Mr. Miller leaves a
wife and four children, two sons and two daughters
grown to manhood and womanhood.
The officer of every immense corporation comes in
for his share of the world's fame, but there are unknown
captains of Industry in the west who are doing things in
the world of work and finance that are equally as
worthy as the trust magnates. The management of a
50,000 acre farm, the largest under fence in the United
States, is a fact that becomes appalling in its immensity
when one comes to consider all details.
Geo. W. Miller, a man over 60 years of age, had
taken up the task of running the famous 101 ranch in
northern Oklahoma. Indeed he has been operating it
quite successfully the past four years, but under
increased pressure.
Mr. Miller paid the Ponca and Otoe tribes of
Indians $32,000 annual rental for his 50,000 acre farm;
other expenses amount to $75,000 annually. Last year
13,000 acres were sown in wheat, 3,000 in corn and
3,000 in forage crops.
The income of the ranch is from $100,000 to
$500,000 annually. The profits from $40,000 to
$50,000 annually. The income on steers is even more.
Two hundred men find employment on this vast
ranch, and $33,000 worth of tools and machinery are
used in caring for the grain harvests. Four hundred
head of mules are used in the fields and in herding
steers.
Mr. Miller has mastered economics of farming to
such a degree of perfection as is making the 101 ranch
noted as the most profitable farming property in the
west. He had a system of double planting corn field
that gives double use of the land. By the time the corn
had been harvested the cowpeas have grown high
enough to make good pasturage. Also, after the cutting
of wheat in June and July the fields are plowed and
sown in Kafir corn. This is ready for the pasture in
October, but the field is first drilled in wheat and the
cattle are allowed to tramp in the wheat and nibble off
the blades of corn. During the winter, after the corn has
been eaten away, the wheat grows up and is pastured
until spring. This system of getting two returns from a
single field was an idea originated by Mr. Miller. It
was his most successful plan of making money out of
farming.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 30 April 1903
Geo. Miller Dead . George W. Miller, president of
ranch "101, died at the ranch, in the Ponca reservation,
Saturday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock. He was taken down
with pneumonia on Sunday, April 19th, which resulted
in his death last Saturday.
At the time of his death he was at the head of the
largest farm in the world, there being about 36,000
acres in ranch 101." He was a man of great energy, and
although comparatively a poor man nine years ago, he
has through his enterprising work amassed a fortune.
True he was assisted in his enterprise by his sons, but
he was the head of the whole affair.
Unfortunately, the Millers have, for several years,
had trouble with the Santa Fe railroad, and during the
time Montgomery, a Santa Fe detective, was murdered,
of which crime the Millers were charged with being
accessories, but those who are familiar with them
placed no credence in the charges.
A few hours previous to his death, Mr. Miller made
a statement exonerating Coffelt from the charges of
murder and said that he himself was innocent of any
crime or knowledge of it. The Miller family have a
host of friends in Ponca City who will deeply
sympathize with them in their sad affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 2 May 1903
Funeral Notice. Mrs. Nancy Catherine Whallon, wife
of J. J. Whallon of this city, died at her home on south
Fourth street at 8:30 o'clock this morning, aged 63
years. The funeral will be held from the house at 2:30
p. m. tomorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 May 1903
A Time of Sorrow. On last Saturday morning the
Mayday sunshine cast its vivifying rays through the
curtained windows of three different homes in Ponca
City and those immediate environments, where three
persons, identified with this community in friendly
citizenship and neighborly esteem were submitting with
heroic courage to the final, inexorable decree of Nature.
Before the morning's blush of springtime beauty
had given way to the brighter, warmer touch of
noonday, an aged wife and mother, Mrs. J. J.
Whallon, yielded up all that is earthly in the exaltation
of death. Ere the descending sun had reached the
horizon, a husband and father, A. J. Thomas, had laid
down the strength of his stalwart years, and answered to
the beckoning finger of the mysterious messenger. And
when the hush of the weary night was broken by the
glad sweet voices of the Sabbath morn, the orisons of
man and nature were attuned to more of life, yet
another, Edward Hupp, with no loved hand to
minister, nor look of love to solace, gave up, in his
early manhood, the vital thing called life, without a
struggle. Today the people of this community are
drawn together in the bonds of a common bereavement,
and are in a measure, led to magnify the hope which
helped them pass without fear of evil through the valley
of shadows.
Mrs. Wallon was a wife and mother and neighbor
in the noblest sense, therefore who shall measure the
loss, or who attempt to fathom the depth of sadness and
emptiness that lingers an unbidden guest, in that
stricken home. The fragrance of her life, the memory
of her ideal womanhood, will abide with us, and help
ennoble our fleeting days.
Bro. A. J. Thomas was well and favorable know
among us. He represented the sturdy industrial force
that transforms the wilderness into cities and temples
and homes. He was a potent factor in the moral
uplifting of the commonwealth, and in his home he was
the loved and trusted head and hope of each member.
Since settling in this country Mr. Thomas experienced
many vicissitudes of life and fortune, yet he never
faltered in his wholesome endeavor to build a home and
give his family the best possible environment for the
upbuilding of a true and worthy life. Those who knew
him best realize how consistent was his life, and how
unwavering his fight against wrong. He stood on no
mountain height, he was simply and emphatically a
toiler with the rest of us, striving to fulfill his legitimate
relationships with his fellows. Today, in the home,
mute with grief, sits his beloved wife bereft of all joy,
wondering why the blest tie should be thus so ruthlessly
broken, yet trusting to find in their stalwart sons the
protecting and consoling presence that shall lighten
bereavement's heavy hand. The dying father knew, and
it soothed his pain to know that his sons would repeat
his love and care, and live for mother and for manhood.
Let us pause amid earth's sobbing voices and listen
to the heavenly symphony echoing wherever Death has
visited heart and home, saying, "I am the Resurrection
and the Life." W. S.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 5 May 1903
Obituary. Nancy Katherine Hampton was born in
LaPorte county, Indiana, August 26 1840; was married
to J. J. Whallon October 3, 1867; removed to Hazelton,
Kansas, in 1884; and from there to Ponca City in 1896.
Died in Ponca City, Oklahoma, at 8'30 o'clock a. m., on
Saturday, May 2, 1902.
Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Whallon,
only two of whom survive--Dr. W. J. Whallon and Miss
Mary Z. Whallon, both of whom were with their mother
during her long illness and at her death.
79
Mrs. Whallon was a member of the Episcopal
church, and the funeral, which was held from the home
on south Fourth street at 2:30 Sunday afternoon, was
conducted by Rev. Adams, pastor of the Episcopal
church at Newkirk.
The high esteem in which Mrs. Whallon was held
by our people was shown by the unusually large
attendance at the funeral. As a special token of respect
the Odd Fellow Lodges of the city attended in a body,
wearing the regalia of the order. Our people had
learned to love this good woman for her gentle, kindly,
ways, her helpfulness in times of need and sickness, her
good words and works in all the relations of life. And
now she "rests from her labors and her works do follow
her."
from the Ponca City Courier, 11 May 1903
An infant child of Clayton Jingrich (sic), four
miles northwest of town, died last night and will be
buried tomorrow. [Cemetery Inscriptions of Kay
County, Oklahoma lists this child as Orbery Gingrich,
born and died 10 May 1903. Parents were C. H. and
Myrtle. Name is on same stone with Oakley Gingrich,
born and died 23 January 1902.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 May 1903
Richard McCarty, a man 45 years of age, died at
his home five miles northeast of town last night. No
particulars are given. [Cemetery Inscriptions of Kay
County, Oklahoma lists his name as Henry S.
McCarty, b. 6 Oct 1854, d. 10 May 1903, and he is
buried beside J. H. and Susie L. McCarty.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier,
Indian Killed. -- Last night Alva Black Buffalo Bull, a
Ponca Indian, a middle aged man and a widower, was
killed on the Santa Fe railroad track two and a half
miles south of town by being run over by a railroad
train. Nobody knows at what time he was killed or
what train it was that struck him, but he was literally
ground to pieces. It is supposed that he was drunk and
asleep on the track. The pieces were gathered up and
brought to town, and Undertaker Gill put them together
in as good order as his knowledge of anatomy enabled
him to do, placed the reconstructed body in a coffin and
it was taken out into the reservation and buried in one
of the Indian cemeteries. The fate of Alva Black
Buffalo Bull should be a warning to those of his
brethren who have acquired the habit of imbibing the
white man's tanglefoot, but the chances are that they
will not heed it.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 May 1903
LITTLE GIRL DROWNED. Ruth Allen, Daughter of
Arkansas City People Meets Death in the Kaw
Reservation. Arkansas City, May 18.--The Arkansas
City Traveler says: -- Yesterday afternoon news was
received in this city of the drowning of Ruth Allen,
80
aged four years, and the narrow escape of Mrs. H. H.
Allen, in Beaver creek in the Kaw country. The details
of the accident are very meager and the relatives in this
city know very little about it. As soon as the news
came, H. H. Allen left for the scene of the trouble.
Saturday morning a party of nine persons, one man,
four women and four children left this city to visit
relatives in the Kaw country. Mrs. Lou Allen, who is
divorced from her husband, allowed her daughter, Ruth
to accompany the party to visit a short time with her
father who has been making his home down there. The
party was driven down in a lumber wagon by Ed
Tesser, who is a relative and who lives in the Kaw
country. The party spent Saturday night at the home of
John Allen and yesterday morning started across the
country to the home of other relatives. They drove into
Beaver creek which was higher than usual and in some
way the wagon upset. All members of the party were
saved except the little girl. Mrs. H. H. Allen had a very
narrow escape and it is said she had gone down for the
third time when she was rescued.
Some members of the party were expected home
on the noon train, but they did not come and will
probably drive in tonight. Until they come very little
can be learned of the accident.
Late this afternoon a telephone message was
received from Newkirk stating that the party had
arrived there and would reach Arkansas City tonight.
They are driving and the body of Ruth Allen is being
brought here for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 May
1903ACCIDENTAL SHOOTING
A Wichita
Traveling Man Killed Near Newkirk Yesterday.
Wichita, May 26. -- Word was received in the city
yesterday afternoon that J. L. Stevenson, who lived in
this city and traveled for C. W. Southward, had been
shot and instantly killed while on the south-bound Santa
Fe Train near Newkirk yesterday morning. The first
report was very brief, simply stating that the train in
which Mr. Stevenson was riding had been wrecked and
that in the scramble of passengers to get off a shot gun
in the hands of a passenger had been accidentally
discharged and the load lodged in Stevenson's heart
killing him instantly.
C. W. Southward, who is a brother-in-law of
Stevenson, left last night for Newkirk, where the body
had been taken, and after making a partial investigation
sent a brief account of the accident to the anxious
friends here. Mr. Southward states that for some reason
the train had stopped near Newkirk, and it seems the
passengers left the train for a short time. Mr. Stevenson
walked to a little ravine near the railroad and sat down.
The express messenger sighted a flock of ducks directly
in line with Stevenson, but failing to see him, and
discharged one barrel of a shot gun at the ducks,
striking Stevenson in the heart and killing him instantly.
Mr. Stevenson left here yesterday morning on his
run through Oklahoma and the report of the accident
came as a sad surprise to his family and many friends
here. Mr. Stevenson was 38 years of age and was born
in Lincoln county, Kentucky. He came to this city
about five years ago and since that time has been in the
employ of C. W. Southward. He was married in 1893.
His wife and a son, nine years of age, await the sad
homecoming at the home, corner of Rochester and
Avenue A. The body will be brought to the city this
morning by Mr. Southward. The funeral announcement
will be made later.
[a related story in next column, same date.] The
accidental shooting of the Wichita traveling man
Stevenson near Newkirk yesterday was one of the most
unfortunate happenings we have heard of in a long
time. An account of it appears in our news columns, in
a dispatch from Wichita today, but we get some further
particulars from Dr. O. T. Morey of this city, who as
coroner was summoned to Newkirk to hold an Inquest:
It seems that about two miles east of Newkirk a
passenger train on the new Santa Fe Road was delayed
on account of a washout. There was a pond at the side
of the road on which some wild ducks had alighted.
Stevenson had left the car and was sitting on the edge
of the pond when the express agent took his gun, a 38
revolver, from the safe and going to the door of the car
fired at the ducks, not seeing Stevenson. The bullet
from the gun entered Stevenson's breast and he died
almost immediately. The express agent was wild with
grief for the dreadful accident for which he felt himself
responsible. After hearing the evidence, Dr. Morey
concluded that an inquest was not necessary.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 June 1903
"Dad" Griswold Dead.
Onan F. Griswold,
familiarly known to his friends as "Dad" Griswold died
at his home on south Second street at 8:30 o’clock last
night, May 3 [sic], aged 62 years. His illness was of
short duration, the disease of which he died being
congestion of the lungs. The funeral will be held from
the Presbyterian church tomorrow afternoon at 2:30
o'clock and interment will be in the I. O. O. F.
cemetery.
Deceased was an old soldier, having served in the
civil war in the 92nd New York Volunteer Infantry. He
came to Ponca City at the opening and has resided here
continuously since. He is without family, and if he has
relative living anywhere it is not known to his closest
friends in this city. He was a man who was very
decided in his views, and reversed the scriptural
injunction in that he loved his friends and hated his
enemies, which is after all, perhaps the true meaning of
the text. Those who had intimate acquaintance with
him say that he was honest, just and generous and
would divide his last dollar or crust with a friend.
Therefore many a friend will shed a tear at the grave of
"Dad" Griswold, and will keep his memory green for
many a year.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 4 June 1903
"Dad Griswold Dead. -- O. F. Griswold, better known
in the city as "Dad" died Wednesday evening of this
week at his home on south Second Street, presumably
from exposure. Mr. Griswold was a very eccentric man
in his way and manner. He returned a week or so ago
from California and had not been feeling well since his
return. During the recent cold wet weather he exposed
himself by digging trenches through his garden and
wading in the cold mud and water. Tuesday he was
taken sick and Mike McDermott and Wm. McCaig
went down to see him and found him in a very weak
condition. They sent for a doctor who administered to
his needs, but it was too late, and he died the following
evening.
"Dad" Griswold has been a conspicuous personage
in Ponca City since the opening of the Cherokee strip,
having been one of the fortunates who drew a good
Grand avenue lot at the drawing. He had friends by the
score but not intimate enough to confide his past history
and no one knows anything about him only through the
acquaintance of the past ten years. He is a member of
the G. A. R. post and served more than four years
during the civil war. The Grand Army boys will have
charge of the funeral ceremonies.
Mr. Griswold went to California to see an old
sweetheart of his whom he had been courting for the
past forty years and it is presumed that he was making
arrangements to sell his property here, go to California
and marry the girl of his boyhood acquaintance.
Arrangements have been made for the funeral
services to be held at the Presbyterian church, Friday at
2 p.m., with interment at the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
Among the papers of the deceased it was found that
he had two brothers and a niece who will be notified of
his death. Application has been made to have J. S.
Guinea of this city appointed administrator of the
estate.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 4 June 1903
Died At the Wichita hospital, Saturday May 30, 1903,
Mrs. Mattie Foutz, wife of Ernest Foutz, and daughter
of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Harper of this city. The remains
were taken to Arkansas City with interment in
Riverview cemetery. The funeral services were held at
the Christian church, conducted by the pastor, Rev.
Sorey.
Mrs. Foutz had been in very poor health for some
time and had just undergone a very serious operation at
the hospital from which she never recovered. She was
well known in this city as Miss Mattie Harper and
attended the public schools here for several years. She
was born in Bath county, Kentucky, January 5, 1880.
She was married in Ponca City in 1897 to Mr. Foutz
who was then an employee of the Ponca Cash store and
who is a cousin to Frank Foutz.
The many friends of the families will extend their
sincere sympathy in their sad bereavement.
81
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 June 1903
Chas. Davis, aged about 37 years, died at his home
on north first street last night, and will be buried
tomorrow. He was a laboring man and leaves a wife
and two children.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 June
BAD TRAIN WRECK. Mixed Train from Blackwell
Flies the Track. ENGINEER BEARD IS KILLED.
The engine and Freight Cars Leave Track, Passenger
Coaches Saved. -- At 12:30 today, the mixed train from
Blackwell to this place was wrecked one mile out of
Autwine, the engine and freight cars plunging down an
embankment of two or three feet, the passenger cars
remaining on the track. The engineer, W. H. Beard
was killed, and the fireman saved himself by jumping.
The engineer is a man about 45 years old and lived with
his family at Blackwell.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 June 1903
A telegram was received here this morning
conveying the news that a brother of Sim Beaver, the
barber, had died at his home near Barnes, Kansas, last
night. Mr. Beaver was over in the Osage country on a
fishing trip and the telegram was forwarded to him by
the Gray Horse mail carrier, but will not reach him until
six o'clock this evening. The younger brother, William,
who works in the barber shop left for Barnes this
morning.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 June 1903
SUICIDE OR MURDER? That's the Question in the
Death of Ben McGlaslin. FOUND DEAD IN HIS
ROOM. The Coroner's Jury Find that He came to His
Death at the Hands of Parties Unknown. Last evening
at about five o'clock it was reported that an Indian had
been found dead in a room in the Gen. Reeves rooming
house on south First street, with indications that he had
hung himself. The coroner, Dr. O. T. Morey of this
city, was notified a jury was impaneled and the
following points developed, the investigation being
conducted by Attorney Burns.
That the name of the deceased was Benjamin
McGlaslin; that he was an Otoe Indian; 24 years of age
and married. He took a room at the Reeves rooming
house at about 10 o'clock last Wednesday night. The
next morning Reeves and his wife, who are colored
people, left for Topeka, Kansas, leaving the house in
charge of a man named Eddy. Nothing was heard of
the Indian, so far as could be learned at the inquest,
until a boy employed in the house, Ben James by name,
discovered that the door was locked and notified the
man in charge of this house who broke open the door
and found the dead body hanging by the neck to the bed
post, and notified the coroner. This is substantially the
testimony on that point.
The following jury was impaneled: W. B. Ellis,
82
Frank Crocker, Dan Bain, Wm. Ryan, W. V. Bunch, J.
R. Simmons.
The body was found suspended by the neck to the
bed post by a common black cotton handkerchief with
the feet and legs resting on the floor. Death had
evidently occurred on Wednesday night as the body
was badly decomposed and could not be carefully
examined.
It appeared from the testimony that McGlaslin,
who is well known here, had a $20 check cashed at
Rawling's drug store after banking hours Wednesday
evening. This is supposed to be all the money he had
on his person at that time. Later he got a team at the
Central livery barn and Elmer Payton started to drive
him to home in the Otoe country, but finding that they
were unable to ford the Salt Fork, returned to town, and
McGlaslin went to the Reeves place for the night as
stated above.
After hearing the testimony the jury returned a
verdict that the deceased came to his death at the hands
of parties unknown.
By order of the coroner the boy Ben James was
held as a witness and was taken to the Newkirk jail this
morning.
Ben McGlaslin, the dead Otoe, was well fixed
financially having recently sold some land for which he
received $1,800. He had a deposit of $700 in a Perry
bank, against which he had checked out something like
$250. Only about $4 was found on his person by the
coroner. The body was sent this morning to the Otoe
country for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 June 1903
COL. A. J. BLACKWELL. Founder of Blackwell Dies
Suddenly. -- Chelsea, I. T., June 19.--Colonel A. J.
Blackwell, founder of Blackwell Oklahoma, dropped
dead here today. The funeral services will take place in
this city tomorrow. For many years Colonel Blackwell
was one of the most prominent and influential citizens
in northern Oklahoma. He recently moved to this city,
where he was extensively interested in mining and
prospecting enterprises.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 June 1903
Dr. O. T. Morey, county coroner, was called to
Newkirk yesterday to hold an inquest on the body of
Chas. Frazier, killed in the switch yards at that place
the day before. There was a suspicion that Frazier had
been shot, and it was claimed that bullet holes were
found in his hat, but as the top of his head had been
entirely cut off and could not be found, that theory
could not be verified, and the jury found that he had
come to his death accidentally.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 2 July 1903
Died--Monday evening at 6 o'clock at the residence
of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Wikoff, of the First
ward, Maud Wikoff, aged 18 years. The funeral
services were held at the M. E. church, conducted by
Rev. R. E. Myers, Tuesday afternoon and the remains
laid to rest in the Odd Fellows' cemetery. The parents
and family have the sincere sympathy of the whole
community in their sad affliction. [See obituary
below.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 2 July 1903
Herbert Denoya, the nineteen year old son of
Frank Denoya, died of consumption in Colorado,
Sunday morning, and the remains arrived in Ponca City
Monday and the funeral services were held at the
Catholic church Tuesday, conducted by Father Sevens.
The deceased went to Colorado several weeks ago for
the purpose of benefiting his health and had reported to
his folks that he was much better, and his sudden death
came as a great surprise to his family. The Denoya
family have the sympathy of all in their affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 July 1903
TWO MEN KILLED. Hot Time at Bigheart's in Osage
Country. MARSHAL JOHN JONES SHOT. And
Crowd Riddles John Silver, a Mexican with Bullets. -Special to the Courier -- Pawhuska, July 7.--Two
deaths is the record of the Fourth of July celebration
held at George Bigheart's on Bird creek about 15 miles
east of Pawhuska. Marshal John Jones was shot and
instantly killed by a mixed blood Negro who went by
the name of Ed Kile. A crowd in waiting for the
murderer mistook John Silver, a Mexican, for their
man and riddled him with bullets.
A few days before the Fourth Bigheart decided to
have a celebration and asked the agent for several
officers. Only one could be spared and Marshal Jones
was detailed. The first day's celebration passed off
quietly until about 10 o'clock Friday night when Ed
Kile offered a bystander a drink from a bottle. Jones,
who was standing near, grabbed the bottle and threw it
on the ground. The man without a word started for the
house on the run, where he had frequently boasted of
having a Winchester ready and had offered its use
several times to other parties.
Jones without any intention of arresting the man,
followed him to the house in order to secure the gun.
As Jones started up the stairs the negro appeared at the
top and told him to stop firing at the same time. The
bullet struck Jones near the neck, passed through his
body and out on the opposite side, killing him almost
instantly. The negro then jumped out of a window and
escaped. A crowd soon surrounded the house thinking
that the murderer was still inside.
Previous to this John Silver, who had been
drinking, had gone to the house to sleep off the effects
of the liquor. Being aroused by the noise he got up and
started to leave the building. Thinking he was the
murderer, the crown outside fired on him. One bullet,
or possibly a load of buckshot, tore the right side of his
head away. Another one passed through his hand, a
third entered the entestines (sic), while a fourth lodged
in the right leg below the hip.
John Jones has served as an officer of the law in
Oklahoma and Indian territory for a long time and for
the last few years has been located on the Osage
reservation. His record as an officer and a man are
highly creditable. He leaves a wife who is blind, but no
children. His kindness of heart and gentle disposition
were displayed in his care of his blind wife. Every wish
of her's was a command to him, and when off duty his
time was spent in making her happy and helping her
forget her affliction. His life was insured for $5,000.
His body was taken to Bartlesville where it will be
interred. His home has been at Bartlesville for some
months as he had been assigned to work in the eastern
part of the reservation. The man, John Silver was a
Mexican and had been employed in and about
Pawhuska for several years past. He was an honest,
trustworthy man and well liked by those who had
employed him.
The negro has been working on the railroad most
of the winter, when he worked at all, but had been
recently employed by Bigheart. He is a thick set man
about 5 feet 8 inches tall. Has a yellow complexion and
carries his head a little to one side.
At 10 o'clock the next day the murder surrendered
to the officers in Pawhuska.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 July 1903
IN MEMORIAM. -- Maud L. Wikoff was born near
Griswold, Iowa, April 25, 1885. At the age of nine she
moved with her parents to Sciola, Iowa, where she
resided three years, and then moved to Wymore,
Nebraska. From Wymore she came to Oklahoma in
February, 1903, where she lived four months prior to
her death. In September, 1901, she united with the M.
E. church at Wymore. She died at Ponca City, Okla.,
June 29, 1903, aged 18 years, 2 months, 4 days.
She was a kind and obedient daughter, a loving
sister, and she will be sadly missed by the family and
her many friends.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 July 1903
Mrs. Anna McGrew died at her home four miles
north of this city at 7 o'clock last night [19 July], of
consumption, aged 26 years. Deceased was a daughter
of J. B. Fearnow, and leaves a husband and four small
children. The Funeral will be held from the Christian
church in this city at 10 o'clock a. m. tomorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 July 1903
Mrs. James Crook died at her home on south fifth
street at 4 o'clock yesterday afternoon, and the funeral
was held from the home at 10:00 o'clock this morning.
The funeral sermon was delivered by Rev. R. E. Myers
pastor of the Methodist church and interment was made
in I. O. O. F. cemetery. She leaves a family of five
small children, the youngest a babe about ten days old.
83
[A similar notice appears in the 30 July issue of the
Ponca City Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 July 1903
Major Chapman Dead. -- Major J. F. Chapman died
at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. L. Mattingly, on
south Fifth street in this city at three o'clock this
afternoon of cancer of the stomach, aged 77 years.
Major Chapman came here on a visit some weeks ago,
his home being in Moline, Kansas, and has been
tenderly cared for during his last illness by his daughter,
Mrs. Mattingly, and his granddaughter, Mrs. Bird S.
McGuire. The body will be taken to Moline, Kansas,
for burial.
Major J. F. Chapman, who died at the home of his
daughter, Mrs. J. L. Mattingly, in this city his afternoon
was a prominent Mason, and the Masonic lodges of the
city will escort the body to the train this evening for
shipment to Moline, Kansas, where burial will be made.
The remains will be accompanied to Moline by the
granddaughter of the deceased, Mrs. Bird S. McGuire.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 July 1903
An 18 months-old child of Lee Barger, who lives
two miles east of the Arkansas river bridge, died last
night and was buried in the city cemetery this
afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 July 1903
Mrs. Sarah Conner died at the home of her
daughter, Mrs. Martha Scrunsher, south Seventh street,
at seven o'clock last night, aged 76 years. The body
will be taken to Toronto, Kansas for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 July 1903
Abe Wymore died at the home of his daughter,
Mrs. Elmer Payton, on south First street in this city last
night, aged about 50 years. Deceased came here a
month or two ago from his home near Hominy Post in
the Osage country, for medical treatment having been
taken sick last March. No arrangements have yet been
made for the funeral.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 July 1903
Mrs. Ida Revard, wife of J. W. Revard, died at her
home in the Osage country, five miles east of town, on
July 28, 1903, after a short illness, aged 26 years. She
leaves a husband and three children. The funeral was
held from the home at 3 o'clock p.m. today and
interment was made in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
[A similar notice appeared in the Ponca City Democrat,
30 July 1903.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 August 1903
The funeral of Geo. W. Chadwell, who died at his
home in this city at three o'clock yesterday afternoon,
was held from the home at half past two p.m., today,
services conducted by Rev. J. D. Voce, pastor of the
84
Baptist church and burial in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
Mr. Chadwell was an old and well known citizen of this
city and we shall endeavor to secure an appropriate
obituary for publication in tomorrow's paper. [A more
detailed obituary was not located in later editions of the
newspaper.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 August 1903
A Ponca Indian girl named Nannie Hardman,
aged 23 years, died at her home in the reservation
yesterday and was buried in one of the Indian
cemeteries this afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 August 1903
An old man named Dida, who lived near the 101
ranch, died last Saturday night, and was buried in the I.
O. O. F., cemetery at this place Sunday afternoon. He
left a wife and family of grown up children.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 July 1903 held
for murder. The preliminary haring of Mrs. Farris Who
Shot Her Husband at Kaw City. -- Newkirk, August
12.--Today the preliminary hearing of Mrs. Newt
Farris was completed at this place and she was bound
over to the district court for the trial on a charge of first
degree murder, without bond. She shot and killed her
husband at Kaw City last week and will set up the plea
of self-defense. It is very doubtful if she will ever be
convicted. She is not in the sheriff's charge, but will
not have to go to jail.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 August 1903
Card of Thanks. -- I take this means of returning my
heartfelt thanks to the good people of Ponca City who
so kindly cared for my brother, Steve Elliott, during his
illness and for their generous assistance and sympathy
in his death and burial. Such kindness is an evidence of
the good will of Ponca City and will not be forgotten.
J. W. Elliott [an additional notice appeared in the
Courier, see 8 Sept 1903, below.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 August 1903
Miss Maud Turner, sister of Mrs. F. D. Foutz,
died at her home in Kingman, Kansas, at 7 o'clock last
Sunday evening, and the funeral was held at 2 o'clock
p.m. yesterday.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 August 1903
In Memorium. -- Another life has gone out, one more
name has slipped through the sieve of Time, to be
written in brief chapters on the scroll of human
memory, then ruthlessly forgotten. Last week, August
10th, we followed to the grave the mortal remains of
Mrs. Dora Selby, who died in St. Francis hospital at
Wichita. The reading of her name in print brings before
us the sight of familiar features, and the sound of a
voice that we will remember.
Mrs. Selby died at the age of twenty-eight, leaving
sisters and aged parents to shed disconsolate tears, that
she would be thus snatched away in the hope and youth
of her fair womanhood.
As her bereaved parents look back it is but a brief
day since they bore her, a babe, to the baptismal font, or
stood with her, a bride at the altar--and now chanting
dirge of sorrow. Mrs. Selby had long been an invalid,
but she did not yield to illness and pain, hoping for final
recovery.
For the past year she supported herself, striving to
save sufficient money to enable her to seek relief in an
operation. She was last employed as bookkeeper for
W. J. Johnson, Kingfisher, Oklahoma, and was at her
desk but a few days before her death. Sick unto death,
she fought her battle alone, but waited too long for
needed surgical aid. Her sister, Mrs. Jalie Tully, wife
of M. H. Tully of this city, was the only relative present
at her death, although other friends visited her in her
illness.
The funeral services were held at the residence of
Mrs. S. E. Dunn, of this city. Bro. R. E. Myers of the
Methodist church conducted the services and pointed
his hearers, with eloquent tenderness to the beautiful
solace of religion.
While the summer evening tarried, and the low
descending sun bathed marble shaft and unmarked
hillock alike in golden splendor, we laid her form
beneath the grasses, in the keeping of the eternal years,
and the loneliness of unending night. W. S.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 August 1903
This community was shocked and saddened last
evening by the news of the death of Mrs. Lee
Dunham, which occurred at St. Joseph, Mo., some time
yesterday. Mr. and Mrs. Dunham had been married but
a few months and were making their home in St.
Joseph.
Mr. and Mrs. F. Dunham left last night for St.
Joseph, Mo., to attend the funeral of Mrs. Lee Dunham,
who died in that city yesterday.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 August 1903
James L., son of Mr. and Mrs. D. W. Kygar, died
at the home on south fourth street at 5 o' clock this
morning after an illness of about one week, aged 2
years and 4 months. The funeral will be held from the
residence at 2;30 o'clock tomorrow afternoon. The
parents have the heartfelt sympathy of the entire
community in their sore bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 August 1903
Miss Maude Turner Dead. After many months of
suffering Miss Maude Turner closed her eyes in death
Sunday evening at 7:15 o'clock at her home on avenue
D west. Her funeral was held at the late home Monday
afternoon at 2:30 o'clock conducted by Rev. C. B. Eby
and her body placed in Walnut Hill cemetery. Through
all Miss Turner's long sickness she was never heard to
murmur or complain, but bore her sufferings with a
resignation seldom witnessed.
She expressed a
willingness to meet death and be at rest, saying she was
prepared to meet her Master at the day of final
reckoning.
Miss Turner had been a resident of this county for
more than twenty years and in all her goings and
comings was pointed to as one of the ideally perfect
young women of this community. Of sweet disposition
and pleasant demeanor she was much loved by her wide
circle of acquaintances. News of her death will bring a
pang of sorrow to many. -- Leader Courier, Kingman,
Kansas.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 September 1903
A DASTARDLY DEED. Silas LeClair Shot by
Unknown Assassin. SITTING QUITELY AT HOME.
Shot is fired from Corn field and enters Right Side,
inflicting Serious Wound. -- Last evening at about dusk,
while sitting quietly on the porch at his home near the
Salt Fork crossing, about nine miles south of town,
Silas LeClair, an old and well known citizen of the
locality, was shot and seriously if not fatally wounded.
The porch on which he was sitting is at the back of the
house and a cornfield comes up within a few yards of
the door. The perpetrator of the cowardly crime was
concealed in this corn field and fired the shot and made
his escape without being seen. The bullet, which was
from a 38. caliber revolver, passed through the right
arm near the elbow, entered the right side, passed
through the body in a slightly downward direction and
lodged on the left side just above the groin. Dr. O. T.
Morey of this city was called in consultation with Dr.
Newman, the agency physician at White Eagle last
evening, and this morning went down and extracted the
bullet, leaving the patient resting easily. The doctor
informs us that while the wound is very serious, there is
a chance for recovery.
Officers have been in search of the assassin since the
shooting, but so far have been unable to locate him.
Today a message was sent to Winfield, Kansas for
blood hounds to aid in the pursuit.
Mr. LeClair is about 65 years of age, a half breed
Pottawatomie Indian, but adopted into the Ponca tribe,
is wealthy, of good habits, honest in business matters
and a good man generally. It was not known that he
had any enemies and the shooting is looked upon as a
case of cold blooded assassination. His neighbors are
highly incensed at the outrage, and the assassin would
doubtless receive rough treatment should he fall into
their hands at this time. [The 21 September 1903
edition of the Courier for Mr. LeClair's death account.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 August 1903
DEATH ENDS CONTEST J. C. Potts Shot by His
Neighbor, Thomas Holland. RESULT OF AN OLD
FEUD. Holland Finds Potts in His Corn Field and
85
Opens Fire on Him, Killing Him Instantly. -- As the
result of a long drawn out land contest, J. C. Potts was
shot and instantly killed by Thomas Holland at 11
o'clock Saturday night on the contested claim three
miles southeast of Newkirk in this county.
The feud between the parties is of long standing,
running back to the opening of the Strip, when both
settled upon the same piece of land and shortly
afterwards began a contest for its possession. The case
has from time to time been decided in Holland's favor,
and lately he has received a patent for the land. Potts,
however, has managed to keep the case before the
courts in one shape or another, thus holding possession
of a portion of the land which he lived upon and
cultivated.
The feud has been bitter, and Holland has lost
several head of horses from his pasture which he
accused Potts of stealing or assisting to steal. Two or
three colts were also shot or cut to pieces in the pasture,
and Potts was supposed to be guilty of the acts.
Lately Holland has been missing corn from his
field, and Saturday night he determined to watch the
field for the purpose of apprehending the thief. He
concealed himself in the field and waited. At about 11
o'clock he heard some one shucking corn in the field,
and prowling in the direction from which the sound
came, discovered Potts in the act of filling a sack with
corn. He raised his gun and fired and Potts fell to the
ground dead. The authorities were notified of the
killing and the body of Potts was removed from the
field to his house. As Holland admits the shooting, an
inquest was deemed unnecessary.
At last reports, Holland had not been arrested, but
it is presumed that complaint will be lodged against him
today and he will be taken into custody. He has made
no effort to escape, and says he is ready to abide the
consequences of his act.
Holland is a married man with a family; Potts was
a single man, his sister keeping house for him. The
feud has grown so bitter of late that it was feared that a
tragedy would result, and the neighbors are not greatly
surprised or excited at the outcome. The sentiment of
the people who are familiar with the case seems to be
with Holland, Potts being looked upon as the aggressor
in most of the trouble.
Dr. O. T. Morey, county coroner, was called, but
decided that under the circumstances no inquest was
necessary.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 September 1903
Sir;--We greatly desire to extend our many thanks
to those who kindly assisted during the illness and
burial of our dear brother, Stephen Elliott. Mrs. C. M.
Parker, Mrs. M. J. Land
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 September 1903
An infant child of Mr. Schiltz of White Eagle died
yesterday and was buried at 4 o'clock this afternoon in
the I. O. O. F. cemetery near this city.
86
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 September 1903
Chas. Leigerot, who was injured in the explosion
at Tonkawa on September 3rd, died this morning at his
home at Tonkawa. Chas. Leigerot was one of the early
settlers of Kay county, was a kind and indulgent
husband and father, and enjoyed the highest respect of
all who knew him, and his death is not only a sever loss
to his family, but is a loss to the community wherein he
has lived for nearly ten years past as a good, upright,
substantial citizen and neighbor. His funeral will take
place tomorrow under the auspices of the Knights of
Pythias, of which order he was a member.--Blackwell
News, 17th.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 September 1903
Silas LeClair, who was shot from ambush about
three weeks ago, died last Saturday after making a
desperate fight against his wounds. It has been a very
difficult matter to determine the cause of the shooting,
but some days ago one Lawson was jailed for the crime
and later permitted to go on the merest technicality. In
the death of Silas one of the best Indians on the
reservation has been removed and the loss of a good
man is felt by his family and friends.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 September 1903
The funeral of Mrs. Dula Hicks, who died at her
home on north Eight street at 2 o'clock yesterday
afternoon, was held from the M. E. church at 2 o'clock
this afternoon, and was largely attended, the floral
offerings being numerous and beautiful. The funeral
sermon was delivered by Dr. Miller, pastor of the
church. [Cemetery Inscriptions Kay County, Oklahoma
identifies her as Dorthula Hix, b. 19 January 1865 - d.
23 September 1903, a child Lillie C., 27 October 1900 16 June 1901, is also listed in this book. See also death
of Willie Hicks, 26 February 1901, above.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 24 September 1903
Death of C. M. Shaver. -- Word reached Ponca City
Sunday morning of the death of C. M. Shaver, register
of deeds of Kay county. Mr. Shaver had been away
from home for several days and returned Saturday
evening. He had been a sufferer from heart trouble for
a number of years and recently had been very
despondent. Sunday morning he arose as usual, but
refused breakfast, saying he would eat about nine
o'clock, but at that hour he was a corpse, the cause
being heart failure.
The remains were shipped to Beverly, Kansas,
Sunday evening, where his wife was visiting and where
his father resides, for interment.
The writer has known Mr. Shaver since the
opening of the Strip in 1893. He located on a claim in
Round Grove township. Afterward he conducted a
newspaper in Ponca City , the Tomahawk. Later, in
1896, when Judge J. P. Hammond was elected register
of deeds, he appointed Clem Shaver as his deputy. He
afterward engaged in the abstract and real estate
business in Newkirk, which he pursued until he became
a candidate for register of deeds on the Democratic
ticket last fall to which place he was elected by a
handsome majority.
Clem Shaver was a sociable, whole-souled fellow,
generous to a fault, always willing to sacrifice self for a
friend in need, and a devoted husband, kind and loving
father, a good and efficient public official. He leaves a
widow and two children to mourn his loss, and the
sympathy of the who county is extended to them in
their grief-stricken hour.
Deceased was always thoughtful of the future
welfare of his family as well as the present and
provided for their future with a $7,000 life insurance.
C. M. Shaver has passed the river of death. Let us
blot from memory any mistakes he may have made in
the hope for him a home beyond the grave
commensurate with his many kind and noble deeds.
[The Courier carries a reprinted article from the
Newkirk Democrat of September 25, 1903.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 September 1903
The infant child [daughter] of Mr. and Mrs. J. M.
McCarty, two and a half miles northeast of town, died
at two o'clock yesterday afternoon, and was buried in
the Longwood cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 September 1903
J. L. McCarty Dead. -- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 26.
J. L. McCarty of the J. L. McCarty Mercantile
company, died of apoplexy at nine o'clock last night.
He returned yesterday from a business trip to Pawnee,
and was apparently in excellent health, but at 5 o'clock
sustained an apoplectic stroke, from which he never
rallied. His death was a very severe shock to his
relatives and friends, and of the latter he counted many
in the city and territory.
[Courier note.] Mr. McCarty was until recently a
resident of Ponca City, and owns much valuable
property here. He was a big, capable companionable
man, and his death will be sincerely mourned by many
friends here and elsewhere.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 September 1903
Funeral of J. L. McCarthy. -- The funeral of J. L.
McCarthy (sic), who died at Oklahoma City last
Friday night, was held from the Catholic church in this
city at 2 o'clock this afternoon and interment was made
in the Catholic cemetery. The funeral was one of the
largest ever held in the city, most of the business houses
being closed from 12 till 3 o'clock. [The spelling
McCarthy is probably the correct one.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 September 1903
The funeral of Mrs. McCarty, who died at her
home eight miles east of town, last Saturday, was held
at the Longwood school house at 2 p. m., Sunday.
Many people from this city, friends of the family,
attended the funeral. [Cemetery Inscriptions of Kay
County, Oklahoma lists her name as Susie L. McCarty,
b. 20 March 1867 - d. 26 September 1903, wife of J. H.
McCarty, 1869 - 1910. Their infant daughter, who was
born and died 24 September 1903, is buried beside
them in the Longwood Cemetery.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 September
1903
Man Killed at Blackwell. -- Blackwell, O.T., Sept. 29-Isaac Eyestone, a brakeman on the Frisco road, while
uncoupling a freight car from an engine, fell under the
train, the wheels passing over his hips and crushing
him, so that he died at the sanitarium two hours later.
His legs were also run over and the bones crushed to
pieces. He was unmarried and lived at Enid. The body
was sent to Pittsburg, Kansas.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 October 1903
Death of J. L. McCarthy. -- The community of Ponca
City was greatly surprised Saturday morning to hear of
the sudden death of J. L. McCarthy at Oklahoma City
on Friday evening, September 25, caused by a stroke of
apoplexy.
Mr. McCarthy had returned home Friday noon
from Pawnee and was about town as usual attending to
his business affairs. At four o'clock he complained of
not feeling well and went home and lay down to rest.
At five o'clock he was stricken with apoplexy and died
at nine o'clock without regaining consciousness, all that
medical skill could do failing to revive him.
The body was prepared for burial and shipped to
Ponca City, followed by the wife, mother, sister,
brother, and son of the deceased, one son, Will,
remaining in Oklahoma City sick with fever. The
funeral services were conducted from the Catholic
church, the sermon preached by Rev. Father Sevens,
and the remains laid to rest in the Catholic annex to the
I. O. O. F. cemetery.
The funeral procession was one of the largest ever
seen in the city, a large number of friends being present
from all the towns along the Santa Fe line. The
business houses of the city were closed from two to
three o'clock p. m. as a token of respect to the deceased.
In the death of J. L. McCarthy, Ponca City loses
another one of her early settlers. Mr. McCarthy came
to Ponca City a few weeks after the opening of the
Cherokee strip, having first located in Perry. He was a
member of the second city council and was a tried and
true friend of the city in the days when we were
struggling for supremacy over our rival to the north.
He was always foremost in donations for a public cause
and was largely instrumental in bringing about the
change which made this city the winner in the great
battle.
In the early days J. L. McCarthy shipped butter and
eggs from Kansas and sold to our merchants and many
87
of the old settlers will remember the many jokes about
"McCarthy's butter." Afterwards he became agent for
the Ferd Helm Brewing company, which position he
held at the time of his death. He had also just organized
the J. L. McCarthy Mercantile Co., capitalized at
$100,000, of which he was president and was making
arrangements to remove to Ponca City, his first love, to
reside.
J. L. McCarthy will be greatly missed in Ponca
city, and a host of friends here will extend their sincere
sympathy to the bereaved ones who are left to mourn
his death.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 October 1903
Resolutions. -- Resolutions of respect and condolence
by Queen City Camp 2377, R. N. A., of the death of
Royal neighbor Dorthula Hix.
Whereas, the angel of death has entered our camp
for the first time and taken from our midst one of our
managers, Neighbor Hix, after an illness of two days,
departed this life Sept. 23, 1903, leaving five young
children doubly orphaned, for it has been but a few
years since they were deprived through death of a
father's care; therefore be it
Resolved, That we as a Camp deeply deplore the
death of our beloved Neighbor and extend to the orphan
children and relative our sincere sympathy in this hour
of bereavement. We pray that the Heavenly Father,
who doeth all things well, will watch over and protect
these orphan children.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 October 1903
McCARTHY ESTATE. Temporary Administrator
Appointed by the Probate Court. -- Oklahoma City,
Oct. 7. -- Judge Harper of the probate court yesterday
appointed U. J. McCarthy, a brother of the late J. L.
McCarthy, temporary administrator of the latter's estate,
pending a hearing for the appointment of a regular
administrator.
The names, ages and residence of the heirs at law
of the decedent, so far as known, are: Maggie
McCarthy aged 39; Emma McCarthy, aged 29; Mary
McCarthy, aged 27; and H. McCarthy, aged 25, all of
Rutland, Vt; Estella McCarthy, aged 23; J. D.
McCarthy, aged 20; J. McCarthy, Jr., aged 18; Thomas
E. McCarthy, aged 16 all of Oklahoma City and G.
McCarthy, aged 5, of Bove, I. T. The estate is variously
estimated by the creditors as being from $20,000 to
$50,000.
The widow and heirs have agreed that if the
residence at Ponca City is set aside as a homestead for
the family they will not ask more than $2,500 for
support or exemption until all debts of the decedent and
the J. L. McCarthy Mercantile company have been fully
paid.
88
from the Ponca City Democrat, 7 October 1903
Resolutions. Whereas, Almighty God, the Supreme
ruler of the universe, has removed from our midst, Mrs.
Dorthula H. Hix, beloved sister of our Neighbor,
Mortimer H. Tully, Resolved, that we, the members of
Ponca City Camp, No. 7092 M. W. of A., extend to our
bereaved neighbor and family our heartfelt sympathy in
this, their sad hour of bereavement.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 7 October 1903
Died. -- Wednesday morning, little Angel Kenner, the
four year and nine months old daughter of Mrs. Bill
Kenner of this place. Her death was caused by
membranous croup, and the illness was of short
duration. Funeral services were conducted at the house
Thursday at 10 a.m., by Rev. Wharton of Newkirk and
the little one was put to her last resting place in the
Uncas cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. Kenner have the
sympathy of the whole city in their bereavement. Kaw
City Star.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 October 1903
Mary Larkey, daughter of Mrs. Addie Larkey,
who resides on her farm just west of town, died last
Saturday at 4 o'clock p. m. of scarlet fever. The girl
was about 19 years of age and had been ill only two
days.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 29 October 1903
Resolutions. Whereas, Almighty God, the Supreme
Ruler of the universe has called another angel from our
midst in the little daughter of our brother E. W. Harp,
Resolved: that we, the members of Ponca City Lodge,
No. 18, I. O. O. F. extend to our bereaved brother our
heartfelt sympathy in his sad hour of bereavement.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 29 October 1903
DIED.--Friday, October 23, 1903, at 9 o'clock p.m., the
infant girl baby of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Richardson.
The funeral services were held at the residence
Saturday morning at 11 o'clock, conducted by Rev. E.
S. Farland of the Presbyterian church, and the remains
laid to rest in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery. The bereaved
parents have the sympathy of their multitude of friends
in their sad affliction. Mr. and Mrs. Richardson desire,
through these columns, to express to their friends and
neighbors who so kindly assisted them, their most
sincere and heartfelt thanks.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 October 1903
Late Wednesday evening a farmer, living three
miles east of Bliss, while at work plowing in his oat
stubble field, found the dead body of a man. He at
once notified the authorities of Noble county, and
Thursday morning the coroner and sheriff made an
investigation of the case and decided that the man had
been murdered and the body dragged into the field.
The body was not identified.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 November 1903
Death of L. D. Reynolds. The Guthrie Leader of
yesterday has the following account of the death of a
well known citizen: L. D. Reynolds, a brother of H. H.
Reynolds and J. D. Reynolds of this city, died last night
at the Blesh and Reed hospital as a result of an abscess
on the kidney. Mr. Reynolds has been ill several
months, and last Wednesday was removed from his
home in Enid to Guthrie upon the advice of a physician.
An operation was performed which, while entirely
successful, it is believed was performed too late to save
his life.
Mr. Reynolds came to Guthrie at the time of the
opening and had since resided in Lawton and Enid.
Besides the wife the deceased leaves a sister, Mrs. R. R.
Moon of Ponca City, five brothers and a father, all of
whom with the exception of the latter and a brother who
is in Oregon, were present at the bedside when death
came. The father, W. R. Reynolds of Newton, Kas., is
confined to his bed with sickness, and although he was
notified last night of the death of his son, it is thought
that his condition will be such that he cannot attend the
funeral. The brothers of the deceased are William R.
Reynolds of Arkansas City, James Reynolds of Oregon,
L. J. Reynolds of Joplin, Mo., J. D., and Chief of Police
Reynolds of Guthrie.
The remains will be taken to Arkansas City today
where the funeral services will be held tomorrow
afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 November 1903
Dr. Sippy Dead. -- A telegram received by J. J.
McGraw brings the information that Dr. B. F. Sippy
died at his home in Bell Plaine, Kansas, at 12:05
o'clock today. No arrangement has yet been made for
the funeral, but notice of same will be given when
completed. Dr. Sippy was a resident of this city for a
number of years, and the news of his death is received
here with profound sorrow. In accordance with a
promise made to Dr. Sippy, and at his request, before
leaving here for his home when his last illness was
upon him, Dr. Walter Schenck of this city will write a
sketch of his life which will appear later in this paper.
[A lengthy tribute to Dr. Sippy appears in the Ponca
City Daily Courier on 26 November 1903, but it
contains no information of genealogical value.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 November 1903
Mrs. Lemon, aged 87 years, died at her home in
the Ponca reservation yesterday and was buried today
by Undertaker Hayden in the cemetery eight miles west
of Bliss.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 November 1903
The little seven weeks old girl baby of A. G.
Rogers and wife died at the home in Cross last
Tuesday, Nov. 17th, and was buried the next day. Mr.
Rogers was away from home when the baby sickened
and died, but returned in time for the funeral. [The
same article appeared in the Ponca City Daily Courier,
November 26, 1903.]
Card of Thanks. -- We wish to thank our neighbors and
friends of Cross for their assistance and kindness during
the illness and death of our little girl. A. G. Rogers,
Mrs. S. A. Rogers.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 November 1903
Grandma Ruby Dead. -- Grandma Ruby, mother of C.
H. Ruby, died at the home of her son on north third
street, at one o'clock this morning, aged 97 years and 8
months. The body will be taken to Seward, Nebraska
for burial. The short ceremonies here will be conducted
by R. B. Hayes W. R. C., and the members will escort
the remains to the 6:55 northbound Santa Fe Train. We
are promised an obituary on the deceased in time for
next week's paper.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 December 1903
Obituary. -- Mrs. Mima Jane Ruby died at the home
of her son, Henry Ruby, in this city at 1 o'clock a. m.,
November 26, 1903, aged 97 years, 8 months and 6
days. Short services were held at the home in this city
on Thanksgiving day, and the body was taken to
Seward, Nebraska, for burial.
A biographical sketch, of Grandma Ruby published
in this paper two or three years ago is here given as a
fairly full account of her life:
The R. B. Hayes, W. R. C. No. 9 of Ponca City, O.
T., has the honor of having the oldest member in the
department, if not in the national. It is Mrs. Mima Jane
Ruby, who is 95 years old.
She was born in Sussex county, New Jersey in
1806, during the administration of Thomas Jefferson
the third president of the United States.
Her
grandfather was a soldier in the revolutionary war,
belonging to what was called the "Grey-haired
regiment." He was captured by the Indians during the
massacre in Pennsylvania and was never heard of
afterwards; his brother-in-law saw him led away but
was powerless to assist him.
Captain Spear Spencer was an uncle of her
husband; he was in the war of 1812 and killed at the
battle of Tippecanoe. Her husband's grandmother with
seven children, of which one was his mother, were
taken prisoners by the Indians and held several months
at Detroit, Mich., until ransomed.
Mrs. Ruby's brother was in the Mexican war; her
husband was in the Black Hawk war, and she had the
honor of making a flag carried by an Indiana regiment;
also the one carried by the regiment known as the
"Vincennes Blues."
Her husband was a personal friend of Gen. Wm.
Harrison, who was elected to the presidency of the
United States in 1841. She recalls many things that
89
transpired during his campaign--election, inauguration
and his sad death one month after the inauguration.
During his campaign, he wore a suit of clothes spun and
woven by his wife, she says that every man but two in
his home place voted for him, and they would not vote
against him, so they did not vote at all. She recalls
vividly the great ratifications--one especially, in which
1,000 young ladies in uniform assisted and another,
where a large vessel fully rigged and drawn by twelve
white horses in which rode four soldiers of the
revolutionary war.
Mrs. Ruby remembers the great meteoric shower in
1833. It was the grandest sight she ever witnessed.
Many believed the end of the world had come.
Her husband's mother was a cousin of James K.
Polk, the eleventh president of the U. S. She had two
sons and several nephews in the civil war. Her mind is
a store house of knowledge--remembering distinctly the
dates of almost every great event in our country's
history.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 December 1903
ACCIDENTAL KILLING. Reckless Driver Causes
Death of Young Man. -- Saturday evening about five
o'clock Elmer Hogue in company with an Indian by
name of Alex Upshaw, started out of town in a buggy at
a reckless pace and in attempting to turn the corner near
the stockyards, the buggy was overturned and Hogue's
neck was broken, killing him instantly.
Elmer Hogue was a young man of about 30 years
of age and unmarried. He was a brother of James
Hogue, of this city and had only been here about three
months. His home was in Pennsylvania. He has been
making his home with Mr. Dillon in the Ponca country,
since he has been here. The funeral was held from
Hayden's undertaking rooms at two o'clock this
afternoon.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 14 January 1904
Died. -- Of consumption, at her home in Longwood
township, last week. Mrs. Rorick, aged 40 years. The
remains were laid to rest in the Uncas cemetery.
Deceased leaves a husband and two children, boys,
besides numerous relatives and friends, to mourn her
loss.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 21 January 1904
Harry E. Titus Dead. A dispatch from Kansas City
announces the death of Harry E. Titus, a live stock
agent for the Santa Fe Railroad. He died of acute
tuberculosis at 3:15 o'clock Saturday morning at the
Transient house.
Mr. Titus was a son of Eli Titus, general livestock
agent of the Santa Fe. He was 32 years of age and
unmarried. Harry was well known in Ponca City,
where he had a host of warm personal friends.
90
The dispatch states that Mr. Titus was taken ill
about three weeks ago in Chicago and immediately
returned to Kansas City. He gradually grew weaker
until death came. Mr. Titus was a friend of Zach
Mulhall of Mulhall, Okla., and Mr. and Mrs. Mulhall
came to Kansas City several days ago to see him. Miss
Lucille Mulhall was the guest of Mr. Titus' sisters when
he died. The body will be taken to Cedarvale, Kas. for
burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 January 1904
JAS. H. CLAPP DEAD. Dies Suddenly at his Home at
4 p. m. Yesterday. WAS NOT KNOWN TO BE ILL.
Was One of the Oldest and Best Known Citizens of the
Country. -- News was received here by telephone this
morning that James H. Clapp had died at his home on
his ranch in the Osage country, seven miles east of Kaw
City, at 4 o'clock yesterday afternoon. No particulars
are given and the cause of his sudden and unexpected
death is not known here.
Mr. Clapp was one of the oldest, best known and
most highly esteemed citizens of the county. He had
held the office of county treasurer and other positions
of trust and honor and was very popular with our
people. He came here from Nebraska at the opening of
this country to settlement and has made his home for
the most part in Ponca City, removing from here to his
ranch last spring. He was about 69 years of age and
leaves a wife and three daughters, the latter being Mrs.
Mills G. Voris, wife of ex-county clerk Voris of this
county, Mr. Otto Elliott of Hobart, and a younger
daughter at home.
Later.--It is learned that Mr. Clapp had been out in
the afternoon to round up some cattle and returning at
about four o'clock fell from his horse and died within a
few minutes. The funeral will be held at Newkirk
tomorrow, but what hour we are unable to learn.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 January 1904
A. Husk, of Round Grove township, died suddenly
last Friday of paralysis. Deceased was one of the
pioneers of Kay county and was one of the Round
Grove's most respected citizens. This was the second
attack of the kind, he having had another some few
years since which left him rather feeble. He was 77
years old. The remains were laid to rest in the I. O. O.
F. cemetery Sunday afternoon. The bereaved family
have the sympathy of all their acquaintances in their
hour of grief.
From the Ponca City Democrat, August 22, 1907
W. I. McConnell, one of the veterans of the civil
war and one of our oldest citizens, died at his home in
the Wylde addition, Sunday evening [August 18, 1907].
He was 73 years of age and had been very feeble for the
past year. He leaves a wife and two children, a son and
a daughter, to mourn his loss. The funeral was held
from the home on Monday and the remains laid to rest
among the old veterans who are sleeping side by side in
the Odd Fellows' Cemetery. The Grand Army Post had
charge of the services at the cemetery. Thus, one by
one the defenders of the flag are passing away, and
soon there will be none left to remind us of the greatest
struggle of the world.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 January 1904
Sudden Death of J. H. Clapp. The sad news reached
Ponca City Tuesday morning of the sudden death of
Hon. James H. Clapp, at Kaw reservation, Monday
afternoon.
The story of his death as told by Mills G. Voris, his
son-in-law, is substantially as follows: Mr. Clapp had
saddled his pony for the purpose of going after some
cattle. When he started away from the house it was
noticed that he began to reel in the saddle. Mrs. Clapp
told Mills to look after him, that something must be
wrong. They both started toward the house and the
deceased fell to the ground. He was picked up and
carried into the house. He was struggling for his breath
and by the time he was laid on a bed life was extinct.
Deceased had been troubled for several years with
some affectation of the throat, and it is supposed that
this was the cause of his death, having strangled to
death.
James H. Clapp was born in Salem, New York,
March 19, 1846. The funeral services were held at the
Presbyterian church at Newkirk this (Thursday)
afternoon at 2 o'clock.
Deceased was a pioneer settler of Kay county,
having came here from Nebraska, made the run for a
claim and staked the quarter section on which now
stands the little village of Cross. After losing the claim
in a contest with the townsite people he moved to Ponca
City, where he resided until last spring when he moved
to his ranch. He served as treasurer of Kay county two
terms and has been a member of the city council. He
was highly esteemed by his acquaintances and counted
his friends by the score. He leaves a wife and three
children to mourn his departure. The children are three
girls. Mrs. Mills G. Voris, Mrs. Otto Elliott and Miss
Jessie who is at home.
A number of Ponca City people went to Newkirk
on the 11:40 train to attend the funeral services. [A
reprint of the obituary from the Newkirk Republican
News Journal appears in the Ponca City Daily Courier,
30 January 1904.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 February 1904
A Notice of Sale of Real Estate in Probate Court of
Kay County, Territory of Oklahoma, in the matter of
the estate of F. P. Adams, deceased, appears in the 11
February 1904 Democrat.
Isabelle Adams is
Administratrix.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 February 1904
Fred Bishop Dead. -- Fred P. Bishop of this city, an
account of whose injury under the cars at Purcell was
given yesterday, died in the hospital at Oklahoma City
at one o'clock this afternoon. No particulars are given
in the telegram which brings the news. Mrs. Bishop
went to Oklahoma City on the last evening's train, the
first train she could get after hearing of the accident.
The body will be brought here for burial, arriving on
the 6:55 train this evening. No arrangements for the
funeral have yet been made.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 18 February 1904
Joe Post, a former bartender in Ponca City, died at
Oklahoma City last week of pneumonia, after an illness
of only three days. The remains were taken to
Arkansas City for burial, where his mother and brothers
and sisters reside.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 18 February 1904
Obituary. -- Our entire membership is grief stricken.
On February 11, through the carelessness of the train
crew, Bro. Fred P. Bishop was thrown from the car
receiving a fatal wound from which he died on the
following day at the Oklahoma City Catholic Hospital.
Bro. Bishop was one of our most active deacons and
beloved by the entire membership. He came from
Kentucky, and from the very first he was active in the
Master's work. He was always ready to serve and the
thought of failure never came into his heart.
We were together so much and his entire
conversation would be about his family and about the
Church. His desire was to provide well for his family,
which he did, and to see the Church of Christ in Ponca
City a social, spiritual and a financial success. To this
end he labored untiringly.
He leaves a wife, two children, father, mother,
brothers and sisters to mourn his death. His home is
saddened for there he was so tender and affectionate.
He had a host of friends as was evinced by the
large company of business men and women in
attendance at his funeral on a busy Saturday afternoon.
The church was packed and there were more people on
the outside than had gained entrance. And when the
opportunity was given these too, came in and view the
remains with tearful eyes and saddened hearts. O, cruel
death? why didst thou come so soon? For he was a
noble man, young and useful.
My acquaintance with him was of but a few
months, yet, it was most pleasant. For he was a true
yoked fellow. And now I miss him, for I loved him.
But when I think of how precious he was to his own
family and how they will miss him, self is forgotten and
I find my self praying god to bless and keep his home.
A good man is gone from us, but is not forgotten.
His image lingers in the memory of all for there it is
indelibly stamped. Our loss is his gain, therefore we
quote Rev. 14:13: "And I heard a voice from heaven
91
saying, Write, Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord
from henceforth; Yea, sayeth the Spirit, that they may
rest from their labors, for their works follow with them.
J. A. Tabor, Pastor.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 February 1904
Another Shooting. -- At about one o'clock this
afternoon, in the Turf Exchange saloon, a young man
named Tony Boone was shot through the breast and is
now lying in a precarious condition. The bullet entered
his right breast near the nipple and lodged as near as
can be ascertained under the left shoulder blade. It was
at first reported that the shooting was accidental, but
later one John Hooper was arrested as the guilty party
and taken to Newkirk for preliminary examination.
Since recovering from the effects of the anesthetics
administered by the surgeons who dressed his wound,
Boone has been in his right mind and able to talk, but
he either don't know who shot him, as he says, or else
refuses to tell. The wound is considered dangerous
through not necessarily fatal.
Boon is a young man of about 25 years of age,
unmarried, and for the past two years has been
employed on Wm. Craven's ranch in the Otoe country.
Hooper, we are told, is an older man, married and lives
at Red Rock. There are reports of former difficulties
between Hooper and Boone, but nothing definite could
be learned either of that or of the actual shooting.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 February 1904
TONY BOONE DEAD. -- Tony Boone, the young man
who was shot at the Turf Exchange saloon Saturday
afternoon, died at 2:10 Saturday night, and the body
was removed to Duncan's undertaking rooms. Coroner
Morey impaneled a jury at three o'clock this afternoon
and the inquest is not in progress.
The inquest on the body of Tony Boone was
adjourned at four o'clock this afternoon until tw0 p.m.
tomorrow, when the taking of testimony will be
proceeded with. The evidence taken up to the time of
adjournment indicated that the shooting was accidental.
Two sisters of Boone arrived this morning and were
present at the inquest. The body will be shipped tonight
to Garden City, Missouri, for burial. [See article
below.]
From the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 February 19
More Shooting. -- A row occurred at the house of the
Negro woman known as "Aunt Lize" in the southeast
part of town yesterday afternoon, as the result of which
Mrs. Jim Owens, a young colored woman is dead, and
a number of the participants are under arrest.
There are many conflicting reports, but the facts in
the case seem to be about as follows: In the course of a
quarrel in which a number of persons engaged, one Jim
Atcheson, a young man, went into an adjoining room
and procured a double-barreled shot gun. Returning, he
discharged the gun at short range, the charge entering
92
the left thigh in front and tearing a great hole through
the limb from front to back. The woman was taken to
the office of Dr. Wallace, where the wound was
dressed, but she died at about nine o'clock in the
evening.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 March 1904
Obituary. -- Henry Harp died at the home of his
daughter, Mrs. M. C. Downey, south Second street,
Ponca City, Oklahoma at 11 o'clock a. m. on Monday,
Feb. 29, 1904, of cancer of the stomach, aged 88 years.
Deceased was born in Clayborn (sic) county,
Tennessee, June 12, 1846 at the age of --[no age listed]
was married to Amanda Watkins who preceded him to
the home above nearly 40 years ago. In 1844 he moved
to Bloomington, Ill., and in 1884 to Wellington,
Kansas, where he has since resided. For the last two
years he has spent much of his time in this city visiting
with his daughter, Mrs. Downey, and his son, E. W.
Harp. He leaves three Daughters and two sons, the
funeral and interment will occur today in Wellington,
Kansas.
Grandfather Harp was a man who made friends and
retained them. Upright and just in all his intercourse
with his neighbors, his heart and hand was ever open to
those who needed assistance and kindly counsel. It
may be truly said of his that he was a model citizen, and
the world is better for his having lived in it. The family
and friends have the sympathy of a large circle of
friends in their sad bereavement. [This article was
reprinted in the Ponca City Democrat, 3 March 1904.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 March 1904
It Was Murder. -- At the inquest held this afternoon
upon the body of Mrs. Jim Owens, who was shot in
the row at Aunt Lize's place Sunday, the jury found that
she came to her death from a gun shot wound inflicted
by Jim Atcheson. Three of four other parties were held
for investigation.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 March 1904
It was an Accident. -- The coroner's jury in the inquest
upon the body of Tony Boone conducted its labors
today and returned a verdict of accidental shooting.
The jury was made up as follows: H. S. Lewis, Oscar
Lindsay, L. E. Anderson, G. Sipes, John Clemmer and
Ed Fleenor. The same jury also served in the case of
the colored woman, Mrs. Jim Owens.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 3 March 1904
Accidental Shooting. -- Tony Boone was accidentally
shot and killed at the Turf Exchange saloon Saturday
last, about noon.
The particulars of the case as brought out at the
coroner's inquest on Monday and Tuesday by the
examination of witnesses, was about as follows: John
Hooper entered the saloon in company with his little
boy who is about three or four years old. Boone and
Hooper were playing with the boy and both in a
stooping position, when a 32 caliber revolver fell from
the pocket of Hooper to the floor, the hammer striking
the floor and the gun being discharged, the ball striking
Boone on the right nipple and ranging upward to the
back of the neck, causing his death. The unfortunate
lad lingered between life and death until 2 o'clock
Sunday morning.
Before his death he regained
consciousness and made a statement before Wm.
Cravens and Dr. J. H. Schenck that the shooting was
accidental.
Mr. Hooper was arrested soon after the shooting
and taken to Newkirk and placed in jail. After the
coroner's jury returning its verdict, which was that the
deceased came to his death by a gunshot wound from
an accidental discharge of a revolver owned by John
Hooper, the defendant was released from custody.
The deceased was about 28 years of age and
unmarried, and had been in the employ of Mr. Cravens
for about three years, taking charge of his farm. He
was a splendid young man, well liked by all his
acquaintances and friends, who deeply regret the sad
accident.
The remains were taken to Garden City, Mo.,
Monday evening for burial, accompanied by his two
sisters, who arrived from that city on Monday to take
charge of the body.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 3March 1904
Negro shooting Scrape. -- Sunday afternoon a general
row occurred among a few darkies on south Third
street, at the home of the old colored woman, who is
familiarly known as "Aunt Liza". The result of the row
was the killing of a young Negro woman, Mrs. Jim
Owens.
The facts brought out at the coroner's inquest were
that two men, Jim Atcheson and Jim Owens got into a
little difficulty in which a shotgun was brought into
action, together with razors and clubs, the deceased
having been in possession of a razor. It seems that
Atcheson pulled the shotgun on Jim Owens who pushed
it aside just in time for the discharge to take effect in
the left thigh of the woman, resulting in her death a few
hours afterward.
The jury returned a verdict against Atcheson,
charging him with murdering the woman, and two other
Negroes were held as accomplices and will have their
trials in the district court.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 3 March 1904
W. F. Wallace and wife returned home Saturday
from Winfield, Kansas, where they had been to attend
the funeral of Mr. Wallace's grandmother, Mrs. T. B.
Ross who died on February 21 of old age, having
reached the age of 91. Deceased lived with her son and
daughter on a farm south of Winfield, Kansas. Her
husband, Judge Ross was the first probate judge of
Cowley county in 1870.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 3 March 1904
An infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Payton,
died Sunday night, and was buried Monday afternoon
at the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 3 March 1904
Notices of hearing petition for probate of wills
were published in this edition of the Democrat for
estates of Fred P. Bishop and Aaron Hilton.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 4 March 1904
Died. -- Henry Downey died at his home on south
Second street, Monday morning at six o'clock, of
pneumonia, at the age of 34.
The funeral was held at the family residence at 10
o'clock Tuesday morning, conducted by Rev. E. S.
Farrand of the Presbyterian church, and the remains
taken to Arkansas City, Kansas, for burial. They were
escorted to the depot by Ponca City Camp Modern
Woodmen, of which deceased was a member.
Henry Downey, "Hank," as he was familiarly
known by his friends and acquaintances has been in
business at Pawnee for some time, and came to Ponca
City a short time ago to be with the family during his
sickness. He was married only last Christmas and his
death is a sad blow to his young wife, who with a
mother, brother and sisters are left to mourn his loss.
The bereaved relatives have the tender sympathy of
their friends in their sad affliction.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 4 March 1904
Joyce Winifred Wikoff, the eight-year-old
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Wikoff, died at the
family residence in the Wylde addition yesterday
morning of a complicated case of measles. The funeral
was held from the M. E. church at two o'clock this
afternoon with interment at I. O. O. F. cemetery. The
sorrowing parents have the sympathy of their friends in
their sad bereavement.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 4 March 1904
The infant child of R. E. Devenney died Sunday
morning and was buried the following day in I. O. O. F.
cemetery. Their friends extend sincere sympathy.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 March 1904
Obituary. Henry E. Downey was born in Lexington,
McLean county, Illinois, December 13, 1869; died in
Ponca City, Oklahoma March 7, 1904, aged 34 years.
Removed from Illinois to Wellington, Kansas, in 1876
from there to Chicago in 1890, and came to Oklahoma
at the opening of the Strip locating first at Newkirk,
where he engaged in the grocery business. Later he
came to Ponca City and engaged in the confectionery
trade, but later joined with his brother, F. L. Downey in
93
the furniture and second-hand store business. He was
married to Miss Leta Frye, August 22, 1903, at
Oklahoma City, and has since lived in Pawnee. He was
brought to this city at the beginning of his last illness
and remained here until his death. The funeral was held
at the family home in this city and the body was laid to
rest in Mercer cemetery, Arkansas City, Kansas. He
leaves a wife, mother, one brother and three sisters.
The death of Henry Downey is deeply mourned not
only by his family and relatives, but by all who knew
him. Honest, industrious and upright in all his dealings
with his fellow men, he possessed a cheerful and kindly
spirit which endeared him to all. In his death the
community loses an exemplary citizen and the family a
loving husband, son, and brother.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 March 1904
IN MEMORIAM, -- Joyce Winifred, daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. James A. Wikoff, was born in Ponca City,
Feb. 6, 1896. (She) Died at the residence of her parents
in the Wylde addition, March 9, 1904, aged 8 years, one
month and 3 days.
She had been in poor health for over a year, but
was much improved. Several weeks ago she took
measles, from which she never recovered. Other
complications adding to the weakened condition of her
system which she was unable to overcome. Everything
in the power of human skill was done to save her life all
to no avail.
Joyce was a lovable child and loved by all who
knew her. She was a member of the Methodist Sunday
school and of the Junior League of that church in both
of which she will be greatly missed by her companions.
The funeral services were held from the M. E.
church at 2 p. m., March 10, conducted by the pastor,
Rev. H. H. Miller, assisted by Rev. J. A. Tabor of the
Christian church.
The sermon was founded on John 14:23. The pallbearers were Misses Virgie Giles, Eva Decker, Edna
Nicbergall and Elsie Tennyson.
Little Mary Decker, who was an almost constant
companion of Joyce, acted as flower girl. There were
many expressions of love and sympathy in gifts of
flowers. The precious form was laid away in the Odd
Fellows cemetery to await the resurrection morn.
Mr. and Mrs. Wikoff have the sympathy of
multitude of neighbors and friends in their sad
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 17 March 1904
Mrs. John Florer, of Gray Horse, died at their
home Tuesday of tuberculosis. The remains will be
taken to Lawrence, Kansas, for burial. Deceased was
the wife of Cap. John Florer, and had a number of
acquaintances in Ponca City.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 17 March 1904
Died--Sunday, Mildred Cox, the two-year old
daughter of Mrs. Cox, north Fourth street. Interment
94
(was) Monday afternoon at Odd Fellows cemetery.
[She was born 25 December 1903, died 10 March
1904.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 March 1904
A Pioneer.-- H. J. Phelps, aged 72, one of the
pioneer residents of the territory died at Shawnee. He
was the father of E. G. Phelps, until recently publisher
of the daily Shawnee Democrat. He owned much city
property.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 March 1904
Died of Pneumonia. -- Major James E. Brett, of
the Twenty-fifth infantry, died of Pneumonia. He was
recently detailed for duty in the Oklahoma state military
institute at Oklahoma City.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 24 March 1904
Died. -- Tuesday evening, March 15, 1904, little Lida
Corral, aged one year, one month and 11 days. All that
loving hands and medical skill could do was done for
the little sufferer, but to no avail. The funeral services
were held at the home, Wednesday morning at 11
o'clock. In the room where the little on lay on her
flower decked bier, silence reigned--the hush of death.
The snowy casket was heaped with floral tributes;
beautiful songs were sung and after a short and
impressive ceremony, the funeral procession wended its
was to the Ponca City cemetery, where Little Lida was
laid to rest. Father and mother, two brothers, a sister,
and a host of friends and relatives mourn her loss.
Precious darling, she has left us,
Left us, yes, for evermore.
But we hope to meet our darling
On that bright and happy shore.
Lonely is the house and the hours
Since our dear one has gone,
But, Oh a brighter home than ours
In heaven is not her own. A friend.
[In a card of thanks in this same issue, the last name is
spelled Carral.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 24 March 1904.
Wesley McEwen died a week ago Sunday at his home
at Otoe, of pneumonia. The remains were taken to
Winfield, Kansas, for burial the following Tuesday.
Deceased was a brother-in-law of J. C. McClelland of
this city. He was a member of the Odd Fellows, A. O.
U. W. and Fraternal Aid societies.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 March 1904
TERRIBLE ACCIDENT. Two Men Instantally (sic)
Killed by Falling Walls. FALL OF STONE ARCH
BRIDGE. G. S. Strickland and Wm. Shaul Crushed. -Two others Narrowly Escape. -- This morning while O.
S. Strickland, Wm. Shaul, Geo. Wetmore and
_______Miller were engaged in pulling the frame work
from beneath a stone arch bridge just completed across
duck creek about eight miles northwest of town, the
arch fell and Strickland and Shaul were crushed under
tons of rock, meeting instant death. Wetmore and
Miller were also under the bridge, but almost
miraculously escaped. Coroner Morey went out to the
scene of the accident, but decided that an inquest was
not necessary.
The bodies were brought to town and are now at
Hayden's undertaking rooms. Only the lower part of
Strickland's body is crushed, while that of Shaul is
badly mangled from head to foot, the head and breast
being badly crushed.
O. S. Strickland is a prominent and well known
citizen of the county, being a contracting mason. His
home is near Kildare, but at present his family is living
in Tonkawa to give the children the advantages of the
Preparatory school. He was a splendid man, physically
and stood very high in the esteem of the entire
community. Wm. Shaul lived in the northeast part of
this city. He was a deaf mute, but a most excellent and
hard working man. He leaves a wife and several
children. This is one of the saddest accidents that has
ever befallen this community and casts a shadow of
sorrow over every heart.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 March 1904
The funeral of Wm. Shaul, the deaf mute who was
killed in the accident at Duck Creek Saturday morning,
was held at the Bain school house east of town at two
o'clock yesterday afternoon, and burial was made in the
cemetery near by. The funeral of O. S. Strickland, the
other victim of the accident, will be held at the home
near Kildare tomorrow afternoon and interment will
take place in the Newkirk cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 March 1904
Ruth, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jim Smith,
died at the family home on south Fourth street at 8
o'clock this morning, aged two years and two months.
The parents will take the body to the old home near
Harmony, Mo., for burial, starting on their sad journey
tomorrow morning.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 March 1904
OBITUARY. -- The friends of the family were shocked
and grieved to learn of the death of William M. Shaul,
which came suddenly on Saturday, March 26, 1904,
from the falling of a stone arch bridge under which he
was working. He was preparing to return home to his
loved ones after a week's labor, but God willed
otherwise, and the once happy home is (now) desolate.
But there is comfort in the thought that the beloved
husband and father has simply passed from earth to the
heavenly home where there is no more parting, nor pain
nor sorrow. Neither will be a stranger in that blessed
abode; mother and father who were taken from earthly
life some years ago will be there to welcome him. How
we cling to the precious promises of life eternal when
the troubles and sorrow of earth press so heavily upon
us!
The bereaved wife, who is almost crushed by this
sore bereavement, and the two daughters, Mary and
Pearl, have the sincere sympathy of the entire
community in this their hour of trial.
Deceased was born in Clayton county, Ohio, April
17, 1847. He was an earnest Christian, and put all his
trust in the Savior. He said that while he could not talk
to his children here on earth, he would be able to talk
with them in the world beyond. He was a man of fine
character, genial and happy in disposition and had
many warm friends who mourn his death.
Four sisters and one brother survive him. They
are: Mrs. George Gillespy, Mrs. John Gibson, Miss
Minnie Shaul, a sister living in Illinois and Brother
George. All the immediate family were here to attend
the funeral, which took place at Oak View school house
[Bain school house according to an early news article],
Sunday at 3 o'clock p. m. The services were conducted
by Rev. Adkinson, his subject being Job 14:14. The
sweet old hymns were sung. The floral offerings were
lovely. Under a cover of fragrant blossoms, the
remains were laid to rest in the Oak View cemetery.
Mrs. W. C. Forman. [Mr. Shaul is buried in Longwood
Cemetery. An obituary by Mrs. Forman also appears in
the 31 March 1904 edition of the Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Democrat , 31 March 1904
FATAL ACCIDENT. Two Men Meet Death, Being
Crushed Under a Stone Bridge. -- Last Saturday about
noon the news reached this city of a horrible accident
which occurred about five miles northwest of the city,
on Duck Creek, in which O. S. Stricklen and Wm.
Shawl, lost their lives.
Contractors O. S. Stricklen, and George Witmer
were finishing up the bridge. Five men, Howard
Kimmel, W. V. Miller, Wm. Shawl and the two
contractors, were under the bridge at the time of the
accident, and no one seems able to tell the cause of the
collapse of the stone arch bridge. The men were
removing the false area, when from some
unaccountable cause, the bridge fell in, three of the men
escaping. Wm. Shawl, who was a mute, was killed
instantly, his body being completely crushed and
covered up with dirt and stone. O. S. Strickland lived
about ten minutes, the weight of the stone being on his
body below the chest. The men worked heroically to
save his life but he expired just as the third rock was
removed from over him. He was unable to at any time
speak a word, only an occasional groan being heard.
The men were at work removing the rock for an hour
and a half.
The remains of the two unfortunate men were
brought to the undertaking establishment of J. M.
Hayden and repared for burial. Both men were good
citizens and the county loses two noble souls.
95
Wm. Shawl was buried in the cemetery east of
town on Sunday and the funeral of O. S. Stricklen was
conducted from a the family residence near Kildare,
Wednesday, under the supervision of Ponca City
Encampment, No. &, I. O. O. F., of which deceased
was a member, and the body was laid to rest in the
Newkirk cemetery. The funeral was largely attended,
the procession to the cemetery being fully a mile long.
The accident is a sad blow to the families of the
unfortunate victims and also the community at large.
Mr. Stricklen had just returned the week before
from Missouri where he went to attend the funeral of
his only brother and he had been downcast ever since.
He had frequently said to the boys about him that he
would not be with them long. His family had just
moved from Tonkawa to the farm on the day of the
fatal accident and he had been telling that he would be
"at home with his family" that night. He leaves a wife
and five children--four boys and a girl to mourn his
loss. The sympathy of all friends of the family is
extended to them in their grief.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 7 April 1904
Obituary. -- O. S. Stricklen was born in Greenbrier
county, West Virginia, in 1847. When a mere child his
parents moved to Indiana and from there to Henry
county, Missouri. In 1880 he was married at Clinton,
Mo., to Miss Elizabeth Shipman, and to them were born
ten children, five of whom are now living--four son,
Harve, Edward, Charles and Paul, and one daughter,
Olive, all of who are living at home.
In 1893, when the strip was opened to settlement,
Mr. Stricklen with his family, came to Kay county and
settled on a claim near Kildare, where they were living
at the time of his death.
O. S. Stricklen was one of the most prominent
citizens of the county, being a leader in church and
lodge work and also as a politician. His record as a man
was beyond reproach or suspicion. He was dearly
loved by his family, and held in the highest esteem by
his friends and acquaintances. In his death the
community loses a good and true citizen, and his family
a loving and devoted husband and father.
May the loving Father above, in his tender mercy
and care, console the bereaved widow and children in
this their sad hour of sorrow, and point to them the
home beyond the grave where sickness, sorrow and
death are unknown, "Where all is joy and peace and
love."
from the Ponca City Democrat, 7 April 1904
SAD ACCIDENT. James Nolder of Blackwell is
Killed by a Train. -- Wednesday morning about one
o'clock the engineer of a northbound freight train
reported to night policeman Gus Cohlman that a man
had been run over and killed just south of the
stockyards. Undertaker Norman was notified and
immediately went down and gathered up the remains
96
which were strewn along the track a distance of half a
mile. The body was mangled beyond recognition. It
was taken to Norman's First street undertaking
establishment, the name J. M. Nolder was found in a
Blackwell bank book found on his person.
A telegram was immediately sent to chief of Police
Lund at Blackwell who in company with Deputy
Sheriff Baker, came over on the noon train. They
identified the body by his clothing, hair, and a gold
watch which had a picture of his daughter on the inside
of the lid.
Chief Lund called at this office and gave us the
information that Nolder was a member of the Methodist
church, a K. of P., a member of the Fraternal Aid, a
barber by profession and highly respected citizen. Last
September a 14 year old son ran away from home and
his parents had heard nothing from him. Tuesday the
father heard of his being in Ponca City and came over
to find him, but was disappointed.
Deceased was last seen on the railroad near the
depot going south. It is presumed that he was
despondent and while meditating the train came upon
him unawares and killed him. He leaves a wife, son
and daughter to mourn his death.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 April 1904
Card of Thanks. We desire to return sincere thanks to
the neighbors and friends for their assistance and
sympathy during the illness and at the death and burial
of our beloved mother. Such kindness can never be
forgotten. Eli Washington & Wife.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 April 1904
KILLING AT KAW CITY. All Round Tough Shoots
up the Town and Escapes. -- Kaw City, Okla., April 11.
In a shooting affray which occurred here at 6 o'clock
this evening, Chas. Cavanaugh was shot and mortally
wounded.
Bud Wells, a wild cowboy, did the shooting after
riding the sidewalks on horse back for about a block
and firing his gun at random. He fired in the White
House Club saloon, probably intending to kill Claude
Proctor, the bartender, but his aim missed and hit the
innocent bystander, Chas. Cavanaugh. The ball
passed through the abdomen and came out at the hip.
Wells immediately ran out of the city, stopping at
the outside limits and reloading his revolver, he rode
on.
The officers followed closely after him and after
crossing the Arkansas river they fired three times at him
but the bullets went wild.
Several officers are hotly in pursuit and if he is
caught and brought back to this place he may find it a
serious matter.
Wells served a penitentiary sentence for killing a
man in Oklahoma and is considered an all around
tough.
ANOTHER ACCOUNT.--Kaw City, April 12.--At
about 5:30 yesterday "Bud" Wells shot and killed a man
by the name of Chas. Cavanaugh, a Kaw farmer.
From details obtainable it appears that during the day
Bud Wells, who is employed on Stonebreaker's cattle
ranch, came into Kaw City and filled up on bad
whiskey, after which he tried to pick a fight with Claud
Proctor. The fight not materialize, so wells, after taking
a few more drinks, eventually decided he would, in true
cowboy style, shoot up the town. He got on his horse
and started on a run down the main street shooting at
every jump. On reaching McKinzie's saloon he reined
up long enough to shoot once into the saloon.
Presumably with the intention of killing Proctor, but the
bullet, instead, struck Cavanaugh, who chanced to be
sitting on a stool in the saloon and produced a wound
from which death resulted within a few minutes. After
this last shot. Wells rode down to the railroad
deliberately reloaded his gun and rode off into the Kaw
Indian reservation. He was followed as quick as
possible by the city marshal but at last reports had not
been captured. Wells is an all around bad man and has
served a term in the pen for killing a man near Ralston.
The citizens at Kaw City are very much aroused and if
caught Wells will probably pay the penalty without
trial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 April 1904
A sixteen months old child of W. E. Randolph
died at the family home on south Eight street yesterday
afternoon. The funeral was held from the house at 2
o’clock p. m. today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 April 1904
The funeral of Al Standard, who died at his home
near Kildare last Friday night, was not held as at first
announced, being postponed to await a change in the
condition of Mrs. Standard, who is also critically ill.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 April 1904
A man named Tucker who is known in town as a
horse trader, died at Cross at one o'clock yesterday and
the funeral was held this afternoon, but we have been
unable to obtain any particulars for publication in
today’s paper.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 April 1904
Obituary. -- Died, Tuesday morning, April 5, 1904,
little Claude Carrell, aged 3 years and 12 days, after
an illness of several days, during which time all was
done that medical skill and careful nursing could do.
"Mark", as everybody called him, was a bright and
loving child, and was loved by all his playmates, both
young and old. All through his sickness he showed his
lovable disposition, never becoming annoyed at what
might not have sullied him, but always with a smile and
a pleasant word for all. To the stricken family the
sympathy of the entire community is sincerely
extended, with the hope that the thought of their loved
ones having preceded to a home not made with hands,
eternal in the heavens, where someday there will be a
meeting, may lessen the burden of grief so hard to bear.
In the room where the little one lay silence reigned,
the hush of death, the snowy casket was heaped with
floral tributes and the little pillow was strewn with
flowers. There was a scripture lesson, a prayer, a few
appropriate remarks by the minister, some touching
songs were sung and the funeral procession wended its
way to the Ponca City cemetery, and where little
Claude was laid to rest.
Two little angels now on high
Hand in hand together roam.
Two links now bind us to the sky, Malinda J.
Two fingers beckon us to come.
Lord, give us strength our loss to bear
And lead us in the heavenly way;
Oh, may we meet our children there,
In realms of everlasting day. A Friend.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 April 1904
Died--Monday night of last week, of pneumonia and
measles, Claude C., the three-year old son of Mr. and
Mrs. R. E. Corral (sic). The remains were laid to rest
in the I. O. O. F. cemetery Tuesday. This is a sad blow
to the parents who lost their youngest child just a few
weeks ago. Their friends will extend to them their
sincere sympathy in their hour of sorrow.
Mr. and Mrs. Reuben Corral desire to extend their
heartfelt thanks to friends and neighbors who assisted
them in their recent sad affliction, the death of their son.
[Cemetery Inscriptions of Kay County, Oklahoma
indicates the family's surname was Correll.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 April 1904
The two-year-old baby of Mr. and Mrs. W. F.
Randolph, of south Eight street died Tuesday evening
and was buried Wednesday.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 April 1904
Died--Ira Taylor, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. C.
Taylor, of this city, died at the Wichita hospital last
Friday from an operation performed for appendicitis.
The remains were brought to his home and funeral
service conducted from the Methodist church Sunday
by the pastor, Rev. Miller. The remains were laid to
rest in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
Card of Thanks. We desire to express our sincere
thanks to the many friends and neighbors for their kind
assistance and sympathy in the burial of our boy. Such
kindness shall ever be remembered by us. J. C. Taylor
and family.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 April 1904
Sunday afternoon occurred the funeral of Mr. and
Mrs. Al Standard, with burial in the I. O. O. F.
97
cemetery. The funeral procession was about the largest
ever seen in the county. Six orphan children are left to
mourn the loss of both father and mother. It is a sad
occurrence and the surviving children have the
sympathy of all.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 April 1904
An old lady by the name of Wilson died suddenly
at Newkirk Monday noon. Dr. Morey was called and
pronounced it a case of heart disease.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 April 1904
Obituary. -- The death of Ira Taylor, son of Mr. and
Mrs. J. C. Taylor, has brought sadness to all of his
young friends and associates.
He was a faithful member of the Methodist
Episcopal church, having been converted December 27
last. He was a member of J. A. Creel's Sunday school
class and of their Junior League. In Sunday school and
League he is especially missed. He was loved by all
who knew him for his consistent life, his gentleness and
sweet disposition.
He was a real boy, loving the sport of boys, and
was yet possessed of unusual talents and
accomplishments beyond his years. He was a natural
mechanic and a regular genius in electricity. His
workshop was worthy of a mechanic of mature years.
He was an example of the good and pure and is
remembered by his associates for these things.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 April 1904
Mr. M. B. Shire received the sad news Tuesday, of
the death of his mother, at her home in Salisbury, Mo.
He left on the evening train, to be present at the funeral.
The store will be closed until after the funeral services
which will be held Thursday.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 April 1904
A resolution of condolence from the Rebekah Lodge,
No. 73, Batchelder, O. T., appears in this edition of the
Democrat mourning the death of Louisa Kenyon,
grandmother of A. J. Kenyon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 May 1904
DEATH OF MRS. SHIRE. An Old and Highly
Respected Citizen of Salisbury Gone to Rest. -- The
following account of the death of B. M. Shire's mother
is taken from the Salisbury, Mo., Press-Spectator of
April 29: It is our sad duty to chronicle the death of
one of Salisbury's oldest and most honored residents.
Mrs. Henrietta Shire Died Tuesday morning, April
26th, at half past seven o'clock, after a lingering illness
that had kept her bed ridden many months.
Mrs. Shire was born July 26th, 1826 in Steinbach,
Germany, moved to this country in 1848 and settled in
98
Philadelphia, where she resided until 1880, when she
came with her husband and children to Salisbury where
she made her home till death.
On January 2, 1850, Henrietta Loeb was married to
Isaac Shire, and to the union ten children were born, of
whom six survive. Mrs. Jacob Myer, Eli and Charlie
Shire of this place, Joseph Shire of Philadelphia, Albert
of St. Louis and Moses of Ponca City, Oklahoma
After her husband's death about a year ago, she
made her home with her son, Charlie, who has been her
constant companion and untiring nurse during the days
of illness that followed.
Funeral services were conducted from the M. E.
church Thursday morning, April 28, at 11 o'clock.
Rabbi Samuel Sale of St. Louis officiating. The
remains, accompanied by a large number of friends
were taken to Columbia, (Missouri) where the body
was placed beside that of her husband.
Mrs. Shire had been an invalid for some time, but a
fall she sustained about a month ago, made it
impossible for her family to entertain hopes of her
recovery. She grew worse last Sunday and her children
and grandchildren were sent for. Her two grandsons,
Dr. Max Myer of Columbia and Dr. Jess Myer of St.
Louis were soon at her bedside doing all that human
skill could do to alleviate her sufferings, while their
sister, Mrs. Sol Barth was her devoted nurse. All her
children, but the son from Philadelphia were here, by
their presence and loving care smoothing her path
through the "valley of the shadow." Amid this kindness
and solicitude she passed gently and peacefully away to
join her loved ones who had gone before.
Henrietta Shire was truly a mother in Israel. Her
whole thought and care was toward the making of good
and noble men and women of the children God had
given her. A strict observer of the Hebrew faith, she
strove in all things to live the kind of life set by the
example of Sarah of old:--to love her neighbor, to keep
her house, to obey her husband, to rear her children.
She was honored and respected by all Salisbury as
a woman of upright life and stern integrity, and loved
by a large circle of intimates, as these only are loved
who live always for others. She will be missed not only
by her family but by friends and neighbors.
To the sorrowing and bereaved children and friends
the P-S. extends its most sincere sympathy.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 May 1904
Young Man Killed. -- Last evening while a young man
named Wm. J. Halschneider was attempting to board a
heavily loaded north bound passenger train at Bliss, he
fell under the car wheels and one of his legs cut off at
the thigh. He was brought here as speedily as possible,
but was beyond the help of medical and surgical skill
and died within a short time. He came from Humboldt,
Kansas, and had been a spectator of the buffalo hunt at
101 Ranch. The body was taken to the Hayden
undertaking rooms, and today the young man's mother
arrived from Humboldt and will take the body home for
burial. The boy was 24 years old and unmarried.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 May 1904
The funeral of Wm. Clancy, the young man who
was found in a dying condition in the road east of town
Saturday morning, and who afterwards died, will be
held at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon. Services will be
held at the grave in the I. O. O. F. cemetery, conducted
by Rev. H. H. Miller, pastor of the Methodist church.
Money was contributed by our citizens to pay the
expense of the burial and to purchase a lot at the
cemetery. The parents of the young man, who live at
Vinita, I. T. were notified of his death, but were unable
to come here to defray the expense of burial, and the
liberality of our people, which is never appealed to in
vain, made all necessary arrangements for the decent
burial of the body.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 May 1904
The infant child of L. R. Lower, aged 7 months,
died at Chanute, Kansas, night before last, and was
brought here for burial. Mr. Lower was a former
resident of this city and Mrs. Lower is a daughter of
Chas. Hogan, a prominent farmer living 12 miles
northeast of town. Some time ago the Lowers moved to
Chanute, where they have been engaged in the
restaurant.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 2 June 1904
Miss Maggie Nulty died Monday of this week and
was buried in I. O. O. F. cemetery, Tuesday. Deceased
had been suffering from consumption for a number of
weeks. She was one of the city's bright young ladies
and counted her friends by the number of her
acquaintances, being a general favorite will all. The
grief stricken family have the sympathy of the whole
community.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 June 1904
IN MEMORIAM. -- Not a citizen of Ponca City, who
has been here for any length of time, but mourns the
early death of Maggie Nulty and sympathizes with the
mother and her family in their sad bereavement.
Maggie came here, with her parents, a bright and
healthy child, when our city was but a few months old,
and her life has been singularly interwoven in the life of
our people and in all that is brightest and best in our
city's growth.
She was educated in our schools and later became a
favorite teacher with all who had the good fortune to
come under her firm, but gentle guidance. She also
worked during vacations, having been at different times
a valuable assistant both at the bank and at our leading
mercantile establishments, where she made hosts of
friends by her universal kindness and genial disposition.
but her bright, helpful young life is closed. The
beginning of her sickness dates over two years back,
when what seemed at first only a slight trouble, became
more complicated, and after her school closed for the
year, she went to the mountains, where for seventeen
long months she waited for help, but without avail.
She returned home last December and since then
has been a model of patience and resignation to the will
of God. During long weeks of suffering, she was never
known to utter one complaint.
She loved life and all that was bright and beautiful
here on earth, but she accepted her sickness as God's
will and was anxious for the rest she knew only death
could give her. She was conscious to the end: received
the last sacraments of the church, and bid her mother
and sisters as well as those friends that were with her at
the time goodbye, and though conscious that she was
dying, spoke pleasantly and kindly to all. And realizing
the sorrow her death would cause to those who loved
her so dearly she exclaimed. "O, Jim, my darling
brother, you will be alone with your sorrow, but my
dying thoughts are with you.
She died Sunday eve at 8:35 and funeral was
Tuesday morning from the Catholic church, Rev. R.
Sevens officiating. Her funeral was one of the largest
seen in Ponca City, and her memory will ever be
faithfully cherished in the city where her young life was
so well and nobly spent.
May we who have known and loved her so live that
we may be fit to join her in that great world where
partings are unknown, and may the recollection of her
many and great virtues for which she is now receiving
her reward, and the consciousness of having all that
science or love could do to relieve her sufferings, bring
consolation to the hearts of the bereaved mother, sisters
and brother, who mourn the loss of her whom we all
knew and loved. E.D.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 June 1904
Little Lela, the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Will Brown, died at the home in this city, June 17, aged
one year, 4 months and 5 days. The parents have the
sympathy of the entire community in the affliction
which has befallen them in the loss of the little one.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 June 1904
John Haas died at the home of his son, Harry
Haas, on north Third street yesterday morning after
about a weeks illness of Brights disease. The body will
be shipped to his former home, Attica, Indiana, for
burial. Mr. Haas was not very generally known in this
city, but had the respect and confidence of those with
whom he was acquainted. The surviving relatives have
the sympathy of the entire community. [A news story
containing the same information as this article also
appeared in the Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 June 1904
The Deadly Toy Pistol. -- And still another victim is
added to the long list credited to the toy pistol.
99
Wednesday of this week a fourteen year-old son of the
Dimond family living on the Pappan place west of
town, shot himself in the pit of the stomach with one of
these dangerous toys, and Dr. G. H. Germain, who was
called to the case, is yet in doubt whether the boy's life
can be saved or not. This is the third case of this kind
in this vicinity, and in the other two the victims died.
The papers are full of accounts of deaths by means of
the toy pistol, and it would seem that it is about time
some steps were taken to prohibit its manufacture and
sale.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 June 1904
As noted in this paper some days ago, Jerry
Willison and wife, who reside three mile east of the
city, had started for Montana in hope of benefiting Mrs.
Willison's health, she being a sufferer from
consumption. They got no farther on their journey than
Garden City, Kansas, when Mrs. Willison was taken
worse and they stopped. Her parents were telegraphed
for and left for that place Tuesday night. Yesterday
Mrs. Willison died and today the body accompanied by
the family, arrived here for burial. Announcement for
the funeral has not yet been made, but it is understood
that it will be held at the home tomorrow and interment
will be made in the Longwood cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 June 1904
A resolution of condolence and respect was
published in this edition of the Courier by the Queen
City camp No. 2377, Royal Neighbors Association for
Mrs. Catron Wood Dell, mother of Mrs. C. W. Brown.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 30 June 1904.
Death. -- Mrs. Kate Willison, wife of J. W. Willison,
died at Garden City, Kan., Wednesday, June 22, 1904,
aged 26 years, two months and two days.
The remains were brought to Ponca City and the
funeral services held at the Christian church, Sunday,
June 26, at 2 o'clock p. m., conducted by the pastor,
Rev. J. A. Tabor. Interment at I. O. O. F. cemetery.
[Mrs. Willison is buried in Longwood Cemetery, not
the I. O. O. F. Cemetery.]
Deceased had been suffering with consumption for
several months and a short time ago Mr. Willison
started to New Mexico and Colorado with her, hoping
by the aid of a change of climate to regain in her health,
but the dread disease had got too far advanced and at
Garden City she passed away after a short sickness.
The husband and the motherless children who are
left to mourn the sad loss have the heartfelt sympathy of
their host of friends in and near Ponca City.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 2 July 1904
The funeral of year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Milton was held at the home on south Eight street at 10
o'clock a.m. today.
100
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 July 1904
George Jones, colored, died Saturday night at the
home of his brother, Rev. Wm. Jones at this city, of
hemorrhage of the lungs, aged about 20 years. The
funeral was held from the home at 3 o'clock Sunday
afternoon, burial in I. O. O. F. cemetery. George was a
good and industrious boy, and his death is sincerely
mourned by a large circle of friends. He has been in
poor health for a number of months, but was about his
regular work until within a very short time of his death.
Card of thanks. -- We desire to return sincere thanks to
the friends and neighbors who so kindly assisted us in
the illness and death and burial of our brother George
Jones. W. M. Jones and wife.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 July 1904
Death by Drowning. -- The Chicaskia near this place
claimed another victim last Saturday, in the person of
Frank Bicksler, a young man living southeast of the
city. Mr. Bicksler, in company with several other men,
was in swimming Saturday afternoon and sank from
their view without warning and completely disappeared
despite their efforts to recover the body. Saturday
afternoon and evening and all day Sunday searchers
worked in vain trying to locate the drowned man.
Explosives and other means were used but all seemed
futile. Early Monday morning some boys found the
body in a measure lodged or held by the overlapping
branches of some trees. They fastened the body to the
tree and came to town to notify the undertaker. Chas.
Richards and Undertaker Fyffe went after the body and
it was prepared for interment. Bicksler was a single
man and made his home with his parents on the farm
commonly known as the Charley Goetting place. The
funeral was at the farm home southeast of the city
Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev Woodward of the
Methodist church, and the body was taken to the old
home in Iowa, Tuesday, for burial.--Blackwell Times
Record
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 July 1904
Card of Thanks. We desire to thank the Modern
Woodmen of Ponca City and all who so kindly assisted
us the last sad rites of laying our loved one to rest. Mrs.
Mary A. Farmer, Mrs. Clair J. Sherer
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 July 1904
Instantly Killed. -- A young man named Richard
Baringer was instantly killed yesterday working on the
ferry at the Morledge ranch twenty miles down the river
from here. It seems that the young man was engaged in
winding up the cable when the windlass slipped from
his hands and flying back struck him on the side of the
neck, breaking his neck and causing instant death. The
body was brought to the Hayden undertaking rooms in
this city where it is being prepared for shipment to the
young man's home in Illinois.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 21 July 1904
Asa L. Brinegar, a young man who has been
working for L. B. Morlege at his ranch 18 miles south
of the city, was instantly killed last Tuesday while
working on stretching a cable across the Salt Fort for
Morledge & Wallace. He was engaged in winding up
the cable when the windlass slipped from his hands and
flying back, struck him on the neck breaking it and
causing instant death. The body was brought (to) the
Hayden 's undertaking establishment where short
funeral services were held, conducted by Rev. Miller,
and the remains buried in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
Deceased was 21 years of age and leaves a father to
mourn his death. [The correct spelling of the last name
is not known.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 July 1904
Mrs. Margaret J. York, wife of Abram S. York,
was born in Orange county, N. Y., March 3, 1822, and
died at the home of her son-in-law, Ed D. Richardson,
on Cleveland avenue, Ponca City, Oklahoma, at 6:30
p.m., July 27, 1904, surrounded by relatives and
friends, among whom were her oldest daughter, Mrs.
W. H. Auchmoody, mother of Mrs. Dr. Smith, and her
youngest daughter, Mrs. Richardson. Mrs. York united
with the Presbyterian church when quite young and
lived a consistent Christian all through her journey to
the ripe age of 82 years, 4 months and 24 days. Funeral
services will be held at the Richardson home at 9 a. m.,
July 29, Interment in the Odd Fellows cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 July 1904
The body of the young man Anderson, who was
drowned in the Arkansas river near frank Wallace's
ranch in the Otoe country last Wednesday was
recovered today. It had floated about three miles down
the river from where the drowning occurred.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 July 1904
Grandfather William Hubler, well known in this
city, died at the home of his son, Judge D. Laf Hubler,
in Newkirk today and the funeral will be held
tomorrow. No particulars are given, but it is presumed
that old age was the cause of death, deceased being
upwards of 80 years of age.
A number of Ponca City people will attend the
funeral of Grandfather William Hubler at Newkirk
tomorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 July 1904
Death of Father Hubler. -- William Hubler was born in
Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, on Nov. 14,
1821; died at the home of his son, Judge D. Lafe
Hubler, in Newkirk O. T., at 12:30 o'clock p. m., on
Friday, July 29, 1904, after a brief illness, in the 84th
year of his age.
In 1846 he was married to Mary Smith and in 1868
to Louisa Bradley. Seven children were born of the
first marriage, only three of whom survive, these being
Mrs. Oral Thornby of Washington, D. C., Mrs. Emma
Smith of Houston, Texas, and Judge D. Lafe Hubler, of
Newkirk, O. T., the two last named being with their
father at his death, Mrs. Thornby being unable to make
the long trip from Washington in time for the funeral.
The funeral was held at the M. E. church in
Newkirk at 10 o'clock a. m. today, the services being
conducted by Rev. A. R. Grant, pastor of the church,
and the body was interred in the Newkirk cemetery.
As one who has enjoyed an intimate acquaintance
with Father Hubler for more than a quarter of a century,
the writer desires to pay a deserved tribute to his
memory. He was a man of very decided convictions
and marked out for himself a course in life which he
believed to be right and which he followed with
unswerving steadfastness. In early youth he was
converted and became a member of the Methodist
church and his religion was as much a part of his life as
his daily work, and the demands of both were faithfully
met. A carpenter by trade, he labored with his hands
while his strength permitted, four years of his life being
spent in the service of his country as an enlisted
mechanic during the civil war.
He made no
compromises with what he believed to be wrong, and
his influence was always cast on the right side of all
moral questions. Perhaps his strongest characteristic
was his absolute faith in the tenets of the Christian
religion, and the text from which his funeral discourse
was preached--"I have finished by course; I have fought
the good fight; I have kept the faith," expressed in few
words the history of his life.
The funeral, which was held from the Methodist
church at Newkirk at 10 o'clock today, was largely
attended, and many and beautiful floral tributes attested
the love and esteem in which the deceased was held by
the community in which the last years of his long life
were spent.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 August 1904
Frank Steining died at his home eight miles east
of Ponca City Saturday morning. Funeral services were
held at the enterprise school house and the body laid to
rest in the Longwood cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 August 1904
Card of Thanks. -- We desire to return thanks to the
friends and neighbors for their assistance and sympathy
in the death of our baby. Such kindness cannot be
forgotten. Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Douglass
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 August 1904
TWO DEAD. Clarence Irwin Kills His Mother-inLaw, then Himself. -- Tuesday evening about 6:30
o'clock Clarence Irwin shot and killed his mother-inlaw, Mrs. John James and then turned the revolver on
himself and blew his brains out, the tragedy occurring
101
in the rear of a small house just north of the Globe
hotel, on second street.
The tragedy was the result of family trouble.
Young Irwin and wife, the wife's mother and step-father
all lived in the same house and domestic quarrels were
the inevitable result. Irwin secured another boarding
house and his wife refused to live with him. He called
to see her, and the mother-in-law ordered his to leave.
He returned to his boarding house, got a gun and
entered the place of the tragedy from the alley. When
his mother-in-law came out to empty a dish pan he fired
two shots at her, one entering the left breast and the
other the forehead. Then he fired one shot at his
forehead, the ball passing upward and through the skull,
and another shot through the brain. Both parties died
within an hour after the shooting.
The bodies were taken to Hayden's undertaking
establishment and prepared for burial, Irwin being
buried Wednesday and Mrs. James Thursday afternoon.
No inquest was held as coroner Morey decided it
unnecessary.
The James and Irwin families moved here from
Illinois. Both men have been employed with the
section gang on the Santa Fe road for the past three
months.
The affair has created considerable excitement in
the city and numerous rumors are current, but
everything points to the fact that it was only the result
of family quarrels and disagreement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 August 1904
The funeral of Rosa Kim, the young woman who
died at the home of Dr. Walter Schenck on Tuesday
last, was held from the Christian church at 2 o'clock this
afternoon, and was largely attended by friends and
neighbors of the family. Burial was made in Longwood
cemetery, east of the city. [According to Cemetery
Inscriptions of Kay County, Oklahoma, Rosa, b. 12
January 1873 - d. 2 August 1904, was the daughter of
John and Theresia Kim.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 4 August 1904
The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Douglass
was buried in the I. O. O. F. cemetery Sunday
afternoon. The funeral was preached from the home by
Rev. H. H. Miller.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 August 1904
Mrs. Evans, wife of Dr. Elias Evans, died at the home
in this city at 8 o'clock last evening, after a long illness.
The funeral will be held from the Methodist church at 2
o'clock tomorrow afternoon. We hope to secure an
obituary of this good woman for publication in a later
issue of the paper.
The G. A. R. Post and W. R. C. will attend in a
body the funeral of Mrs. Elias Evans to be held at the
Methodist church at 2 o'clock, and all members are
requested to meet at the hall at 1:30 for that purpose.
102
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 August 1904
Died--Monday morning, of appendicitis, J. T.
Land. Mr. Land had undergone an operation for the
disease a few days prior to death. He was a farmer
living northwest of town and was about fifty years of
age. funeral services were held from the Baptist church
and the remains laid to rest in I. O. O. f. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 August 1904
Died--Tuesday night, at her home in the fourth ward, of
consumption, Mrs. Evans, wife of Dr. Elias Evans, of
this city, age 45 years. funeral at 2 p. m. today and
interment at I. O. O. f. cemetery. This paper will give
an obituary next week.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 August 1904
The funeral of Mrs. Elias Evans was held from the
Methodist church at 2 o'clock this afternoon. The large
attendance and many beautiful floral offerings attested
the high esteem in which she was held in this
community.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 August 1904
Tribute to Rosa Kim. -- Rosa was with us a few days
since, but now her absence is sadly in evidence. Every
day, for ten thousand days, she smiled on someone, and
for as many days she was the light and life of the dear
home of John and Theresa Kim. It was a dear home,
for love dwelt there, and peace and unity of heart abode
with them also.
Rosa came into her parents life and love under the
sunny skies of Switzerland, where mountains and
meadows, forest and fields, streams and strands, cliffs
and cascades, all help to carve the study grace, and
rugged strength of her people.
When but a child, her parents came to this fair
land, where Rosa, like an Alpine flower transplanted to
a warmer clime, grew in charm and beauty, shedding
the sweetness of her maiden heart for the enrichment
and solace of the "Old Folks at Home."
Today, through the bitter tears of grief, within and
without the cottage among the trees, on every hand they
behold the tender token of a daughter's love and thrift.
An aureole of glory glows on the old hearthstone,
because of a daughter's enthusiastic and unselfish love
of home, and even not its soft radiance glides into those
broken hearts to fill them with an unvexed calm. If
more homes were blessed with such as Rosa Kim, there
would be less sad spectacles of disappointment and
broken hearted age, sitting with bowed head in the
chimney corner, where joy in the fruition of a
contended existence should find a perpetual seat. when
winter with harsh visage browned the fields and chilled
the streams, Rosa was stricken with ill-health, yet she
smiled hopefully believing that spring time would, with
its vast and varied replenishments visit her with gifts of
new found strength.
But the bright sun and the gentle south winds, and
the summer's unselfish bestowments, and all the wish
and work of man proved unavailing.
Last week at high noon, when all things animate
were drinking deeply at the font of life, she slept and
wakened not, while the smile on her marble fact
betokens perfect peace.
Near the home she loved so well we made her
grave, where the sunshine and the shadows play amid
the leaves and where the passersby can see the
hallowed mound, and grow better in the memory of her
beautiful life. W.S.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 August 1904
Obituary. -- Margaret Petri-Evens, daughter of Peter
and Caroline Petri was born in Ripley Co., Ind., May
12, 1862, was married to Dr. Elias Evans, April 17,
1895 at Cross, Oklahoma. Died at the residence in the
hospital building Ponca City, Aug. 17, 1904. She was a
sufferer from the dread disease consumption for many
months, and seemed to live only by a superhuman
fortitude. Mrs. Evans was converted at about 11 years
of age, and soon entered the experience of entire
sanctification. When in health she delighted in active
Christian service, and found particular delight in
serving the most needy. In Columbus, Ohio, she was
one of a band that carried the gospel to the prisons. In
years gone by she attended the camp meetings at
Lancaster and Lakeside, Ohio.
In the death of Mrs. Evans, Ponca City has lost one
of its holiest and best women. She was a faithful
member of the Methodist Episcopal church. The house
of God was her delight; the word of Good her food.
She will be greatly missed in the church, but
greatest in the home. Her home was her haven. She
was eminently prepared to live and fully prepared to
die. The consolation of the gospel satisfied her soul.
She welcomed death, knowing that to be absent from
the body was to be present with the Lord.
Funeral services were held in the Methodist
Episcopal church Thursday, Aug. 18, at 2 p. m. The
pastor, Rev. H Miller, preached from II Timothy, 4:7&8
"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I
have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a
crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the
righteousness judge, shall give me at that day; and not
to me only, but unto all them that love his appearing."
the text fittingly represented her life. The body was
laid away in the Odd Fellows' cemetery to await the
resurrection morn. [This same obituary also appears in
the 25 August edition of the Ponca City Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 August 1904
SAD ACCIDENT. Ten-Year-Old Son of Farmer Bert
Criswell Drowned in a Pond -- Tonkawa, Aug. 18.-The News says. A sad fatality occurred at the farm of
Mr. Bert Criswell, 2 1/2 miles northwest of this city,
last Thursday afternoon, that has brought immeasurable
sorrow to the hearts of one family, and casts a gloom
over the entire neighborhood.
Two sons of Mr. Crisewell, aged respectively, about 10
to 12 years, accompanied by a play-fellow of nearly the
same age, were playing about the farm and becoming
over-warm decided upon taking a bath in the pond--a
small, artificial reservoir intended to supply water for
the stock, and other purposes. The pond, though small
in area, is of considerable depth--being fully 12 feet, at
its deepest point--and the boys, who were unable to
swim, we understand, with the inexperience of youth
failed to realize or heed the danger they incurred until
Charlie, the youngest, had gotten beyond his depth.
From what can be learned from the recollections of
the survivors, it seems the little fellows were so
thoroughly demoralized when their companion got into
the deep water and went down that they scarcely knew
what they did. The playmate of the brothers who is a
son of Rev. Dawson, of this city, clambered to the bank,
in all haste, and donning his clothes, rushed at headlong
speed for his home in the city. The elder brother, in a
dazed and frightened condition, took his way toward his
father, who was plowing in a field some distance from
the scene of the accident, but, after reaching him
hesitated to break the terrible tidings. After following
his father for a short time he told that Charlie had sunk
in the pond and had not come up.
In all haste, Mr. Criswell sped to the water, sending
the child for assistance, but despite the utmost efforts of
the searchers the body was not recovered until all hope
of resuscitation was out of the question.
A log was finally procured, and as the persons
manipulating it reached a certain position the brother of
the drowned boy said: "There, right there, he went
down." Upon feeling the bottom with poles, sure
enough, they found the body, and delivered it into the
hands of the heartbroken parents.
Charlie was a bright little fellow, whose untimely
taking on will be deplored by many friends of the
family who feel the utmost sympathy for the sorrowing
parents in this their great bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25August 1904
A resolution of condolence from the Miriam
Rebekah Lodge, No. 15, was published in the Ponca
City Democrat in tribute to the memory of the son of
Sister Francis Liddie and husband.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 August 1904
Bob Burnett Killed. A dispatch from Enid tells of the
killing of Bob Burnett, a former Ponca City man. The
dispatch reads: -- Enid, O.T., Aug. 22.--Fred Segerman,
better known as "Jumbo," shot and instantly killed Bob
Burnett at a resort in this city (Enid) Sunday morning at
3 o'clock. Burnett is a bartender at the Tony Faust
saloon here and after closing up time last night went to
the resort, where he immediately proceeded to make
trouble. The police were telephoned for, and in
103
company with Policemen James Segerman, went to the
resort which is conducted by Segerman's wife. Upon
entering the room where Burnett was abusing the
woman, Segerman commanded Burnett to desist, and
by way of reply Burnett drew a revolver and fired one
shot at Segerman, missing him. Before he could fire
again, Segerman had fired twice, both shots taking
effect just over Barnett's heart, killing him instantly.
Burnett came to Enid from Hobart. He shot a man at
Hobart with a double barreled shot gun and was
awaiting trial at the time of his death. Segerman was
landed in Jail, but it is thought that he will come clear
on the plea of self defense.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 5 September 1904
J. S. Roberts Dead. Sudden and Unexpected Death of a
Prominent Citizen found dead in his room. Post
Mortem Examination Shows That Heart Disease Was
the Cause.
J. S. Roberts, landlord of the Midland hotel in this
city, was found dead in his room in the hotel yesterday
morning. It was his custom to sleep on a cot in a room
adjoining the hotel office in order to admit guests
coming in late. At half past six in the morning his
daughter, coming into his room, found him lying on the
floor near his cot. She immediately called the family
and a physician was sent for, but it was found that life
was extinct. The last person to enter the hotel that night
was a boarder who came in at 11 o'clock, spoke to Mr.
Roberts and retired to his room.
Mr. Roberts had been quite ill a few days before,
but had apparently recovered, and was feeling as well
as usual when he retired Saturday evening.
A post mortem examination held Sunday Morning
revealed the fact that heart disease was the cause of
death.
Mr. Roberts was one of our best and most
respected citizens and his sudden and unexpected death
cast a gloom over the entire community. He was aged
about 50 years and leaves a wife and large family of
children, who have the heartfelt sympathy of all in their
sore affliction.
The funeral will be held from the Christian church
at 2:30 o'clock tomorrow afternoon and interment will
be made in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
As soon as the data can be obtained a suitable
obituary notice of this good citizen will be published in
these columns.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 September 1904
SUDDEN DEATH. J. S. Roberts, Proprietor of the
Midland Died from Heart Disease. -- J. S. Roberts was
found dead in his room early Sunday morning by his
daughter. When she entered the room Mr. Roberts was
lying beside the bed, dead. She aroused the family and
a physician was sent for, but to no avail. Deceased had
been ill for some time, but had apparently recovered.
104
A post mortem examination revealed the fact that
heart disease was the cause. The heart had become
enlarged and contained clotted blood.
The funeral services were held from the Christian
church at 2:340 p.m. Tuesday, but Rev. J. A. Tabor,
assisted by Revs. Miller and Farrand. The Odd
Fellows, Rebekahs and Woodmen attended the funeral
in a body and followed the remains to the I. O. O. F.
cemetery, where they were interred.
J. S. Roberts was about 50 years old and leaves a
wife, and several children to mourn his loss. Deceased
was one of our most respected citizens and his sudden
departure is regretted by all.
The sorrowing relatives have the sincere sympathy
of the entire community.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 September 1904
Ponca City Man Murdered. -- A dispatch from
Anadarko dated September 3, has the following account
of the killing of A. C. Wheatly, who was a citizen of
this place for a number of years. He was a house mover
and lived on South Fourth street:
"Logan Billingsley, son of a well to do farmer six
miles north of this city (Anadarko), shot and killed his
father-in-law, A. C. Wheatley, here Saturday. It was
the result of a street fight growing out of the hard
feeling existing between the families on account of the
seduction of Wheatley's daughter by Billingsley.
"Before the fatal shot was fired the parties had a
fist fight in which Billingsley was assisted by his father.
Wheatley was severely bruised and beaten and it was
after bystanders had stopped the fight that the shot was
fired that took effect in Wheatley’s back.
"The sympathy of the entire community is with the
Wheatley's. People here are very much worked up over
the occurrence. Many talk seriously of using a rope and
disposing of young Billingsley without delay."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 September 1904
A resolution of memorial from the Official Board
of the Central Avenue Christian Church of Ponca City
was published. In this memorial it is mentioned that:
"Joseph S. Roberts was born June 22, 1854. At the age
of twenty-five he was united in marriage to Miss
Rebecca Garrett, and for twenty-five years they bore
one another's burdens and shared each other's joy, until
the death messenger came, September 4, and separated
them." No other obituary was found in the Ponca City
Newspapers.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 September 1904
Obituary. -- Ella M. Gelvin, daughter of A. L. Gelvin
was born in Washington county, Iowa, December 20,
1869, was married to Wm. Schreckengaust in
Longwood township, Kay county, Oklahoma, March
20, 1898, died in Trinidad, Colorado, Sept 19, 1904.
The funeral was held from the M. E. church in Ponca
City, Friday, September 23, 1904, at 2 o'clock p.m.,
sermon by Rev E. S. Farrand, pastor of the Presbyterian
church.
She had been a sufferer from consumption for
many years, and had sought for health in Kansas, then
at El Paso, Texas, and finally at Trinidad, Colorado, but
without avail. She leaves a husband, father, mother,
two brothers and two sisters to mourn her loss. She was
converted at the age of 19, and remained a faithful
Christian until her death, being a member of the
Methodist church. She was highly respected by all who
knew her, and her death is mourned by the entire
community. The funeral was largely attended and the
remains were laid to rest in the I. O. O. F. cemetery at
Ponca City.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 13 October 1904
A resolution of sympathy from the Miriam chapter of
the Rebekah Lodge, No. 15, was published in this
edition of the Democrat in honor of the mother of Edith
Davis.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 3 November 1904
At rest. Martha A. Pearson was born in Miami
county, Ohio, December 22, 1834, died October 29,
1904 being almost 70 years old. She married Thomas
Reagan, May 24, 1854, who was taken from by death
some years ago. She came to this vicinity with an
unmarried daughter about fours ago, settling in Cross.
The esteem in which she was held in the little town of
Cross is best told by the care and attention that was
given by friends and neighbors in her last moments, it
seeming as if there was nothing but what they were
anxious and willing to do.
While all were very kind and good, and the writer
does not wish to seem partial, and would like to
mention all but can not do so because of many not
known, but feels especially, very grateful to the families
of Isaac Coat and Mr. Binder's for their care and
protection in the past as well as in her recent affliction.
Although feeling ill for some time, the deceased did not
take to her bed until Tuesday and died Saturday
afternoon. She was at the time of her death a member
of the Protestant Methodist church of Cross, of which
she was a consistent and beloved member. Rev. Villars
of Arkansas City, was sent for and a short funeral
service was held at the residence Sunday, at 11 A. m.
after which the remains was taken to the to the Ponca
City
I. O. O. F. cemetery for burial. Loved ones present who
were left to mourn the loss of a mother and
grandmother were John E. Reagan of Alta Vista, Kans.,
Mrs. F. M. Snyder of Campbell, Okla. and little
daughter Hazel, Mrs. S. D. Dupree and sons Archie and
Carl, of Fannin, Miss., Miss Edna Reagan of Cross and
grandson and wife, C. E. Snyder of Ponca City.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 5 November 1904
John M. Jackson, aged 78 years, died at Bressie,
in the Otoe country, Thursday night of this week. He
had lived in or near this city for some years, and was
working at his trade, that of a carpenter, at Bressie. The
cause of his death is not given. He had no relatives
here, but it was learned from a letter found on his
person that he had a daughter living in Joplin, Missouri.
The body was brought to the Hayden undertaking
rooms in this city, and will be held here until the
daughter can be heard from.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 November 1904
Obituary. -- Eva Lucile, daughter of Charles and Emma
Onstot, died Nov. 5, 1904, aged 2 years, 11 months, 4
days, of membranous croup. Little Eva was laid to rest
in the I. O. O. F. cemetery, Sunday at 2 p. m. "Angels
called and God, in all His wise providence, called our
darling home." [This obituary also appeared in the
Ponca City Democrat, 10 November 1904.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 24 November 1904
The angel of death has visited the home of the editor's
family since our last issue, and taken from us the pride
and joy of our hearts, Little Beatrice (Smith), our dear
baby. No one except those who have gone through
similar heart-rending experiences, can or will know the
depth of our sorrow. A kind friend has volunteered to
write an obituary which will appear next week.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 24 November 1904
Mrs. A. C. Smith received the sad news Wednesday of
the death of her sister, Mrs. Belle Schattner of Kansas
City. Owing to sickness in the family Mrs. Smith was
unable to attend the funeral which will be Saturday.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 November 1904
The funeral of Mrs. O. J. Stowell at the
Presbyterian church yesterday afternoon was largely
attended and the services were impressive. The body
was taken to Kansas City for burial.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 26 November 1904
Obituary. -- Francis L. Holmes was born December
26, 1845 at Como, Whiteside county, Illinois and died
November 25, 1904 in her 59th year. She was united in
marriage to Orville J. Stowell, December 24 1874, and
on September 16, 1894 came to Oklahoma and resided
at Cross about one year, since moved over to Ponca
City. She was the mother of seven children, three of
whom survive her, Erwin, connected with the United
States Cavalry at Ft. Riley, Kansas and Charles and
Kitty, who made their home with their mother. Early in
life she professed faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and on
coming to Oklahoma united with the Presbyterian
church of this place. She was the faithful organist of
that church and with her gentle, loving manner won the
hearts of all who knew her.
105
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 December 1904
Died--At the home of her parents, Mrs. and Mrs. J.
G. Budd, west of the city, Sunday, of typhoid fever,
their daughter Maggie. The funeral was conducted by
Rev. Tabor, Monday with interment in I. O. O. F.
cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 December 1904
Sarah, the wife of No-Ear, a Ponca Indian, and
mother of John Bull, was found dead in a spring wagon,
about two miles south of this city, Monday evening.
The team had ran into a barbed wire fence and stopped
and the squaw was found with her head hanging over
the dashboard, her neck broken. No-Ear, her husband
was sitting in back seat in a drunken stupor, apparently
unaware what had happened. Coroner Moorey was
notified and in company with E. L. Hopton and J. B.
Drake went out and got the remains and brought them
to Hayden's undertaking rooms, and No-Ear was locked
up in jail on a charge of drunkenness.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 December 1904
BRAKEMAN NUGENT DEAD. Man Injured Here
Last Week Dies in Topeka Hospital. Guthrie, Dec 6.-William Harrison Nugent, who was injured while
working on the Santa Fe at Ponca City, died Saturday
night at the Santa Fe hospital in Topeka.
Masonic services will be held over the body at the
temple at midnight Tuesday. There will be conducted
by the consistory. There will also be services at the
grave on Wednesday morning, conducted by the Albert
Pike lodge number 69.
The deceased was 25 years of age when he died,
and had been employed by the Santa Fe railroad the
great part of his life. He resided at Orlando a number
of years, but has made Guthrie his home for the past
two years. He was engaged to be married to Miss
Maud Sturgeon, of this city, who left yesterday morning
for Orlando, to accompany the body there.
Mr. Nugent had many friends in the city (Guthrie)
and territory who mourn his loss. He was a member of
the last 32nd degree class of the Masonic temple.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 8 December 1904
Obituary.-- Minnie Beatrice Smith was born October
31, 1897, and departed this life November 23, 1904,
aged 7 years and 23 days.
To our limited understanding, this beautiful life
was far two short, but our faith which penetrates the
veil sees a Divine hand which "gave and has taken
away." He who planted the beautiful flower has a right
to pluck the same and transplant it in the garden of God
above. But the sweet fragrance of this flower still
lingers in the home and Sunday school. Father, mother,
sisters, Sunday school teacher, classmates, all bow with
bleeding hearts; but heaven is nearer and Christ is
dearer to them all because dear Beatrice was here and is
not there.
106
The bereaved ones have the sympathy of a large
circle of friends in and outside of the church and
Sunday school. we trust in Him who said "Suffer little
children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of
such is the kingdom of heaven." C. F. McGaha.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 December 1904
DEAD IN HIS CHAIR. John E. Porter Shot to Death
Last Night. GEORGE SHELBY IS HELD. He Admits
the Killing, but makes a Plea of Self Defense. -- Last
night at about 7:30 o'clock John E. Porter was shot
and killed in the office of his livery barn on south
Second street. Porter was sitting in an armed chair in
front of his desk. Three shots from a revolver, probably
a 44 caliber, had been fired into his face [unreadable
text] two feet away, as the face was powder burned.
One shot entered the head near the right eye and the
other two at the right corner of the mouth. Death had
evidently been almost instantaneous. The body was
removed to the Hayden undertaking rooms, and this
morning Coroner Morey impaneled a jury for the
purpose of holding an inquest, before it was found the
county attorney could not be here until noon and the
inquest was postponed until 1 o'clock p. m.
The county attorney and E. J. Dick appeared for the
people and Barnum & Burns for the defense. The first
witness called was Deputy Sheriff Al Hatten, who
testified that when he arrested George Shelby last night,
Shelby admitted having killed Porter.
Geo. L. Miller, of the 101 Ranch and Major Jenson
of Red Rock testified that they were near the barn when
the shots were fired and were the first to enter the livery
office after the shooting, and they found Porter dead in
his chair. Shelby was in the barn at the time, and said
he was glad Miller and Jensen had come in as he had
just shot a man and he wanted somebody to look after
him. Other witnesses testified as to the position of the
body in the chair after death, and Dr. Wallace gave
expert testimony as to the nature and position of the
wounds.
The inquisition is in progress as we go to press and
no witnesses for the defense have yet been examined,
though it is understood a plea of self defense will be
made.
Both Shelby and Porter have been prominent
citizens for a number of years, and the shooting has
caused intense excitement and the city hall, where the
inquest is being held is crowded with interested
spectators.
John E. Porter was married here last summer, his
wife being, at present, on a visit to friends in Missouri.
Porter had recently bought the livery barn where he
was killed from Shelby, but the cause of the quarrel
which led to the killing has not yet been brought out in
testimony. The result of the inquest will be given
tomorrow.
Later--As we go to press, we learn that the jury has
returned a verdict of justifiable homicide--that is to say,
that in the killing of Porter Shelby acted in self-defense.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 December 1904
The Porter Case.-- As stated in this paper last night, the
coroner's jury in the inquest on the body of John
Porter, killed by George Shelby in the livery barn on
south Second street night before last, returned a verdict
of justifiable homicide, thus acquitting Shelby of all
blame in the killing so far as their findings were
concerned. The testimony upon which the jury based
its verdict was given by a boy who testified that he was
in the office of the livery barn with Shelby and Porter a
few minutes before the killing; that Shelby and Porter
had some words and Porter ordered Shelby out of the
office, at the same time drawing a revolver from the
inside pocket of his vest or coat and holding it in his
hands; that he (the witness) and Shelby both left the
office at the same time, the witness going to the rear
end of the barn and Shelby standing in the driveway. A
few minutes, perhaps not more than four minutes later
the witness heard three shots and going to the office
saw Porter dead in his chair and the desk where he was
sitting when Shelby and the witness went out. Other
witnesses testified that Porter had a Winchester rifle
across his lap and a revolver was lying on the desk.
Complaint was immediately lodged against Shelby
for the killing of Porter, a warrant was issued for his
arrest and the preliminary examination will be held next
Tuesday.
J. H. Porter, a wealthy cattleman of Towanda,
Butler county, Kansas, a brother of the deceased, and
another brother from the same county, are here looking
after the affairs of their relative. The funeral was to
have been held at 4 o'clock this afternoon, but was
postponed, awaiting the arrival of Mrs. Porter from
Missouri, where she was visiting at the time of the
killing.
The deceased was a member of the M. W. A. to
which he carried an insurance of $2,000 and the local
Camp will have charge of the funeral to be held at 10
a.m. tomorrow.
[The following related stories appear out of
chronological sequence.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 December 1904
The preliminary trial of George S. Shelby was heard
before Probate Judge Howsley at Newkirk on last
Tuesday, for the killing of John E. Porter. He was
found guilty of manslaughter in the first degree and
bound over to the next term of the grand jury in the sum
of $3,500 bond, which was furnished with J. H.
Calloway, Alf. Shelby and Love Lillard as bondsman.
There is a vast difference in the findings of the
Coroner's jury which was "justifiable homicide," and
the other above, and now it is to the grand jury for
further investigation.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 March 1907
GEO. SHELBY GOES FREE. Absolved from Blame
for Killing of John Porter. DONE IN SELF DEFENSE.
A Ponca City Murder Case Which Has Attracted Much
Attention Settled in District Court at Newkirk Last
Night--Brief History of the Case. -- Late last night the
jury in the Geo. Shelby cases returned a verdict which
absolves him from all blame for the killing of John
Porter, which occurred in this city on the evening of
December 7, 1904. After a legal battle which lasted for
a great deal shorter time than was anticipated the case
went to the jury at 11 o'clock yesterday morning and
the verdict was returned late last night. The case had
been set for hearing several times before but has been
postponed from time to time for various reasons.
Both Shelby and Porter were prominent citizens of
this city for a number of years and the shooting created
intense excitement at the time. At about 7:30 o'clock
on the evening of December 7, 1904, John E. Porter
was shot and killed in the office of his livery barn on
south Second street in this city. Porter was sitting in an
armed chair, in front of a desk. Three shots from a
revolver, probably a 44-calibre, had been fired into his
face, evidently not more than two feet away, as the face
was powder burned. One shot had entered the head
near the right eye and the other two at the right corner
of the mouth. Death had evidently been almost
instantaneous as there was no evidence that Porter had
moved after the shots had been fired. The body was
removed to the Hayden undertaking rooms and Coroner
Morey impaneled a jury for the purpose of holding an
inquest. At that time Deputy Sheriff Al Hatten testified
that when he arrested Shelby he admitted having killed
Porter. Geo. L. Miller, of the 101 ranch, and Major
Jensen, of Red Rock testified that they were near the
barn when the shots were fired and were the first to
enter the livery office after the shooting and they found
Porter dead in the chair. Shelby was in the barn at the
time, and said he was glad Miller and Jensen had come
in as he had just shot a man and he wanted somebody to
look after him. Other witnesses testified as to the time
and place of the killing and the position of the body in
the chair after death.
Dr. Wallace gave expert
testimony as to the nature and position of the wounds.
The verdict of the jury, after hearing all the evidence
was that in the killing of Porter, Shelby had acted in self
defense, that is to say, it was justifiable homicide.
The cause of the quarrel, if any, which led up to the
killing has never been brought to light. Porter had
shortly before purchased the barn where he was killed
from Shelby, and had been in possession only a short
time.
At the time of his death Porter had been married
only a few months, and his wife was on a visit with
friends in Missouri. From the first Shelby contended
that he had only shot in self defense and all the
testimony introduced seemed to bear out his statements.
107
On account of the extensive interest which the case
has aroused, it was a hard matter to secure a jury, it
having been necessary to order a special venire of two
hundred men.
Mr. Shelby was seen by a reporter for the Courier
and was well pleased with the outcome of the trial. "I
am greatly pleased with the outcome of the trial," said
Mr. Shelby, "and feel that I am fully vindicated before
the people of Ponca City, and that I am not the coldblooded murderer that a few of my alleged friends have
been endeavoring to make me appear. I think if the
people had heard both sides of the case in the beginning
public sentiment would have been modified, but the
result might have been changed, as there are still a few
knockers in Ponca City, who are always ready to cry a
man down. It is a wise counselor that keeps his own
counsel."
His faith grew brighter through all the changing,
shifting scenes of time and near the end his relatives say
that his spiritual susceptibilities became very keen. He
seemed to hear the dip of the oar as the boatman came
for him to cross the dark river. He passed quietly and
peacefully to his rich reward and to join the host of
loved ones gone before. E. S. Farrand. [This same
obituary also appeared in the Democrat on 15
December 1904.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 December 1904
Martin Saylor died at his home in Newkirk this
morning at six o'clock, of Bright's disease. Mr. Saylor
was thought to be recovering and was able to be about
the house until a couple of days ago, when he was taken
down again. Mrs. Saylor was formerly Miss Lulu
Gravette, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Gravette of
this city.
The funeral of Martin Saylor will be held at
Newkirk tomorrow afternoon and the body will be
taken to the old family home in Nebraska for burial. A
number of Ponca City people will attend the funeral.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 15 December 1904
Died.--At Newkirk, yesterday morning at 6 o'clock, of
Brights disease, Martin Saylor. He leaves a wife, who
was formerly Miss Lula Gravet of this city, to mourn
his departure. funeral services were conducted at
Newkirk at 2 o'clock this afternoon. The bereaved wife
has many friends here who will extend their genuine
sympathy in her sad affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 December 1904
Obituary. -- Peter Nichols was born May 9, 1814 at
Blair Loche, Scotland, near Castle Sterling. He came to
Canada in 1821 and united with the Presbyterian church
in 1828, and for 76 years remained a consistent member
of this church and a faithful follower of the Lord Jesus
Christ.
In 1842 he was united in marriage to Miss Lois
Moore, of Perth, Canada. They came to the United
States about 1855, and to Arkansas City in 1873. He
has lived in this part of the country since that time and
for the past nine years he has resided in and near Ponca
City. He died in Winfield, Kansas, Dec. 12, 1904 of
cancer in his 91st year.
The deceased had eleven children, seven of whom
survive him--five girls and two boys. Mrs. Hill and
Henry Nichols live in Ponca City, Mrs. Gammie lives
near Ponca City, and Mrs. Kline and Mrs. Patterson
formerly lived in Ponca City.
Mr. Nichols led a very remarkable and interesting
life. He could relate events that have passed into
history nearly a century ago. The writer has heard him
tell of his father-in-law who was in the siege of
Sebastopol. He came to Canada when that country was
a vast wilderness and made his home deep in the forest,
miles from any human habitation.
108
from the Ponca City Democrat, 15 December 1904
Jerry Willison had the sad misfortune to lose his
five-year-old baby Tuesday night. It died of Diphtheral
croup and was sick only a few short hours, passing
away before the doctor could reach it, at the home of its
grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Wheatland, northeast of
town.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 5 January 1905
Mrs. A. L. Gelvin has received word that her
brother, Wm. Wilson died at his home in Woodward
county last month of smallpox.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 January 1905
Father George H. Hooser died at his home in this
city at 3 o'clock this morning, after a short illness, aged
about 75 years. The funeral will be held from the home
at 2 o'clock p.m. tomorrow and will be in charge of the
Masonic fraternity, of which the deceased was a
respected member.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 January 1905
Obituary. George H. Hooser was born August 27,
1827 near Louisville, Todd county, Kentucky: died at
his home in Ponca City, Oklahoma, Jan. 7, 1905, aged
77 years, 4 months and 10 days.
While yet a young man he moved from the place of
his birth to Illinois, where shortly afterwards he was
married to Miss Lucy Cheney. To this union four
children were born. The wife and mother died a few
years later, leaving two children who survive their
father.
In 1864 he married Martha Pettijon in Litchfield,
Illinois. To this union six children were born, all of
whom were present at his funeral except Ralph, the
eldest son, whose home is in California.
In 1881 he moved his family to Kansas and settled
on a farm, a part of which now comprises the townsite
of Hooser.
In 1893 he came to Kay county, Oklahoma, where
he resided until his death. He leaves a wife and eight
children to mourn the loss of a good husband and
father. The children are all grown and all married
except one daughter.
The funeral was held from the home in Ponca City
at 2 o'clock p. m. on Sunday, Jan. 8, the services being
in charge of the Ponca City Masonic Lodge, of which
the deceased was a respected member.
Card of thanks. We wish to express our heartfelt thanks
for the kindness of the Masonic brethren and other
friends who so kindly aided us during the sickness and
at the death and burial of our dear father and husband.
Mrs. G. H. Hooser, Mrs. A. Miller, Mrs. J. J. Dennis, J.
H., Frank, and Lew Hooser.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 January 1905
Cecil Leon, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Stanley,
died at the family home on east Grand avenue
yesterday, aged one year and six months. The funeral
was held from the home at 2 o'clock p.m. today and
interment was made in t
he I. O. O. F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 January 1905
Obituary. G. H. Hooser was born August 23, 1827
near Louisville, Todd county, Kentucky. He died at his
home in Ponca City, Sunday, January 7, 1904, aged 77
years, 4 months and 10 days.
When a young man Mr. Hooser went to Illinois
where he was married to Miss Lucy Cheney. To this
union four children were born, and shortly afterward
she died leaving him with two the of the children.
In 1846 he was again married to Martha Pettijohn,
of Litchfield, Ill., and to this union six children were
born, all of whom were present at the funeral, except
Ralph, the oldest son, who is in California, and Mrs.
Dora Anderson of Van Metre, Iowa.
In 1884 Mr. Hooser with his family, moved to
Kansas and settled on a farm, part of which is now the
town of Hooser, where he resided until 1893, when he
came to Oklahoma, where he has resided since, until
his death. He leaves a wife and eight children to mourn
his departure, one daughter in Iowa, two children in
Kansas and the other six in Oklahoma. All the children
are married.
The funeral services were conducted from the
residence on North Second street, Sunday, January 8,
1905, at 2 o'clock p.m., under the direction of the
Masonic order of which deceased had been a member
for over 50 years. The funeral sermon was preached by
Rev. E. S. Farrand, pastor of the Presbyterian church.
The bereaved wife and children have the heartfelt
sympathy of the entire community in this hour of sad
affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 January 1905
Cecil Leon, child of George and Ettie Stanley was
born the 13 day of July 1903 and died January the 9th,
1905, aged 18 months lacking four days. The funeral
took place from the home at 2 p.m., of the 10th. Little
Leon was a bright, happy child and the joy of the house.
But God in His wisdom and goodness has taken him
and left father, mother and little brother to mourn. But
they "sorrow not as those who have no hope." Mr. and
Mrs. Stanley have the sympathy of a host of friends in
their sad bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 January 1905
Wilheim Suter died at the Kate Ryan rooming house
on First street in this city at 9 o'clock this morning,
aged about 55 years. Deceased was a native of
Switzerland, came to this country some years ago,
stopping first at Wichita, and coming here at the
opening of the Strip to settlement. He owned a small
piece of ground in the village of Cross and devoted his
time to growing grapes, of which he raised many fine
varieties. He had no family or relatives in this country.
He has three brothers living in Unter Ehrendinger,
Canton Baden, Switzerland. Some weeks ago thieves
entered his house to rob him, and when he resisted, he
was badly beaten and bruised, from the effects of which
he died. He was tenderly cared for in his last sickness
which began about four weeks ago by Kate Ryan and
Pierce Doty. The funeral will be held at the Catholic
church at eight o'clock tomorrow morning and
interment will be made in the Catholic cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 January 1905
Sudden Death. John T. Peddicord, well known in the
city, died very suddenly at the Planters hotel last
Saturday night at about half past ten o'clock. He had
gone to bed feeling unwell, but nothing thought of it
until he was found to be seriously ill a short time
afterward. A physician was hastily called but the man
was dead before he arrived. Deceased was born in
Hamilton, Missouri, October 24, 1876, and came to
Ponca city four or five years ago. His wife was visiting
in Missouri at the time of his death. W. T. Pedicord is
here from Missouri and will take the remains back to
the old home for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 January 1905
A child of Mr. and Mrs. Smith died at the family
home in Cross yesterday morning. The funeral was
held at the home at 2 o'clock this afternoon and
interment was made in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 19 January 1905
John T. Petticord Dead. -- The many friends of John T.
Petticord were shocked and surprised Sunday morning
to learn of his sudden death. He passed away early
Sunday morning from heart failure. He had been sick
for about a week, and his wife being in Missouri on a
visit, he was staying at the Planters hotel. Two nurses
109
were with him at the time of his death. He asked one of
them to raise him up, saying he felt a choking sensation.
When raised he gave one deep breath and died.
Telegrams were sent to his relatives, and his
brother W. N. arrived Monday from Nebraska; and
made arrangements to ship the body to Hamilton, Mo.,
where his mother resides and where his wife was
visiting, for burial. His wife met the remains at
Wichita.
At 6 o'clock p.m., Monday, Ponca City Aerie No.
884, Fraternal Order of Eagles, marched to the
residence on South Fourth street where a short but
impressive ceremony of the order was held, with
beautiful floral offerings. The Aerie then escorted the
Remains to the depot, the following members acting as
pallbearers: W. H. Foster, A. M. Fritze, Bob Dean, Geo.
Cook, Ed Cone and Al Harpster.
Deceased was 28 years old. He leaves a young
wife, a mother and three sisters to mourn his loss, who
save the heartfelt sympathy of all their acquaintances
and friends in this their hour of affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 January 1905
DRAGGED TO DEATH. Mrs. Louis DeNoya Killed
by Runaway Team. HUSBAND OPENED THE
GATE. Team Took Fright and Ran at Terrible Speed.
Mrs. DeNoya Well known Here. -- Fairfax, O.T., Jan
22. At Remington, about eight moles north of here, last
night, Mrs. DeNoya was dragged beneath the wheels of
a buggy drawn by a runaway team. The accident
occurred in the following manner: Mr. DeNoya and his
wife were returning from Pawhuska; they were riding in
a buggy, driving a fast team of horses at ten o'clock and
within a mile of home, when Mr. DeNoya got out of the
buggy to open a gate. After the team had passed
through the open gate and while he was closing it, the
team became frightened and ran toward home at a
breakneck speed.
Mr. DeNoya hurried after them and when he
arrived home he found the team standing by the barn,
the lifeless body of his wife was beneath the buggy
hanging to the running gears. She was nearly stripped
of her clothing and horribly disfigured, the supposition
is that in attempting to jump from the buggy, she fell
under the tongue, becoming entangled and was dragged
to death. There was a trail of blood and remnants of
hair and clothing along the entire route of one mile
leading from the gate to the house. The road was
frozen and rough.
Mr. DeNoya is the wealthiest farmer and stockman
in the Osage reservation. He owns a magnificent home
at Remington. The deceased was a noble lady. Her
many friends are shocked by the news. She leaves four
minor children.
The funeral will take place at
Pawhuska on January 23. [This same article also
appeared in the Ponca City Democrat , January 23,
1905. See related article on 9 March 1905 Democrat.]
110
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 February 1905
Information reaches us that Grandfather Snyder
died at the home of his daughter Mrs. Thos. Bassler, in
Longwood township, this morning. He was in his usual
health when he retired last night, but was either found
dead in his bed or died early this morning. Mr. Bassler,
who is at Guthrie, has been notified and will be home
tonight.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 February 1905
Obituary. -- Simon Bennett Snyder was born in
southeastern Pennsylvania near Philadelphia in 1830.
He died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Thomas
Bassler, seven miles east of Ponca City, February 4,
1905, of heart failure. The deceased was married to
Mary Ann White in Illinois in 1858. In 1883 he came
to Kansas and settled in Sumner county. His wife died
in 1883 and was taken to Illinois for interment.
The deceased leaves three sons and one daughter
all of whom are present to attend the funeral. For the
past five years Mr. Snyder made his home with his
daughter, Mrs. Thomas Bassler, who is well known
here in Ponca City.
Mr. Snyder was a true and warmhearted friend; a
faithful and loving husband; and very highly respected
by all who knew him. He has a large circle of
acquaintances and friends in Longwood township. The
funeral will take place tomorrow, 11 a.m. at the
Enterprise school hour, and will be conducted by Rev.
F. S. Farrand pastor of the Presbyterian church, Ponca
City. The interment will be in the Odd Fellows'
cemetery at Ponca City, conducted by the Masons.
The community extends heartfelt sympathy to the
relatives of the deceased.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 February 1905
The infant child of Wm. Brannon three and a half
miles northwest of town, died last Friday night and was
buried Sunday in the Odd Fellows cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 February 1905
The funeral of Grandfather Snyder, father of Mrs.
Thomas Bassler, was held at Enterprise school house in
Longwood township at 11 o'clock a.m. today and was
the most largely attended funeral every held in that
neighborhood. The body was followed to Ponca City
by a long procession which was joined here by the
Masonic lodge which had charge of the interment.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 February 1905
Mrs. W. A. [Ignolia P.] Hadley died at the home
of her father, J. R. Fearnow, a few miles west of the city
at one o'clock last night, of consumption. The funeral
will be held from the Christian church next Saturday at
1 o'clock p.m.
J. B. Dale died at his home five miles northeast of
town yesterday morning and the funeral will be from
the Methodist church in this city at one o'clock p. m.
tomorrow. Deceased was an old soldier and the funeral
will be in charge of the Grand Army Post, of which he
was a member.
This editor acknowledges a friendly call from R. H.
Snyder, editor of the Highland Chief, Denver,
Colorado, who came here to attend the funeral of his
father, who died at the home of his daughter, Mrs.
Thos. Bassler, in Longwood township last Saturday
morning. Mr. Snyder will remain here for a few day's
visit with his sister, Mrs. Bassler and family.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 February 1905
Grandfather Neff, father of John and Thomas
Neff, died at the home of his son, Thomas, yesterday.
He had been in his usual health and his death was
sudden and unexpected.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 February 1905
Thomas Bell, a young man working for Walt
Carrell in the Osage country, died Saturday night from
the effects of a fall he received about a week ago. He
was about thirty years old and leaves a wife and two
children.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 February 1905
Obituary.--Samuel Neff was born February 23, 1827, in
Franklin county, Virginia, Died at the home of his son,
Thomas Neff, near Ponca City, Oklahoma, February 12,
1905, aged 77 years, 11 months and 17 days.
September 6, 1849, he was untied in marriage to
Elizabeth Jamison. To this union 18 children were born
11 girls and 17 (sic)--five of whom preceded him to the
beyond. The wife and mother died December 17, 1901.
Deceased had been a member of the German
Baptist church for thirty years, and was a devout
believer, a kind and loving husband and father, and
good citizen and neighbor. The funeral was held
Tuesday at 12:30 o'clock in the school house near the
home, and the body was buried in the Longwood
cemetery. The funeral sermon was buried in the
Longwood cemetery.
The funeral sermon was
delivered by the Rev. J. A. Tabor of this city, and the
funeral was largely attended by the friends and
neighbors of the deceased.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 February 1905
Obituary. -- J. B. Dale was born in Hancock county,
Illinois, Jan. 17th, 1840. Died at his home, five miles
northeast of Ponca City, Feb 7th, 1905, aged 65 years
and 21 days.
Being left an orphan when he was five years old,
he made his home with Eli Campbell until the war.
In 1861 he joined the Union army, enlisting with
the 7th Mo. Cavalry. He was in the service two years.
He took sick while guarding his country's flag. Having
little hope of his recovery, the officer granted him an
honorable discharge. Leaving the swamps of Arkansas,
he went to his home in Illinois. There he regained his
former strength and vigor.
While a young man he became a soldier of Christ.
He united with the M. E. church, of which church he
was a member at the time of this death.
In 1864 he married Mary Philena Quint. J. B. Dale
has lived a consistent Christian life. He is gone but not
forgotten. Gone to meet his dear companion. Gone to
be with Christ his king.
He leaves seven children, also a brother and four
sisters to mourn his loss. Sad is the parting, but "It is
God's way; His will, not our, be done."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 February 1905
The three-weeks-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
M. P. Dewey died at their home southeast of Kildare
last Monday morning, Feb. 13. funeral services were
held at the home on Tuesday and the body was laid to
rest in the Newkirk cemetery. The parents have the
sincere sympathy of the entire community in the loss of
their little one.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 2 March 1905
Wright Holmes Auchmoody was born in Ulster
county, New York, April 6, 1832, and died in Ponca
City Feb. 26, 1905, Aged 71 years, 10 months and 29
days.
On April 19, 1864, he was married to Miss May
Hester York. To this union were born two children--Eli
C. Auchmoody, now Mrs. Dr. Smith, of this city, at
whose home he died.
He was a soldier [Co. I, 56th Regulars, New York
Volunteers] for nearly four years, and for gallantry was
promoted to a lieutenancy. He was a member of the
Grand Army of the Republic, but had not united with
the post here.
He and his wife, who survives him, united with the
Congregational church in Wichita, Kansas, in his last
sickness he expressed his wish to depart and be with the
Lord, saying that he was ready.
May the God of all grace comfort the sorrowing
loved ones.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 March 1905
Obituary. --- Wm. McDowell, son of John and
Margaret McDowell, of Copley township, Knox
county, Illinois, died at his home four miles northwest
of Ponca City, Oklahoma, at 12 o'clock m. (sic) on the
28th day of February 1904. On November 21, 1900 he
was united in marriage to Miss Josie Round of Ponca
City. There were born to this union two children-Gordon and Marie, who [unreadable type], two brothers
and two sisters and a host of friends are left to mourn
his departure.
He joined the Scotch Presbyterian church when a
boy. The esteem with which he was held was
manifested by the very large attendance at the funeral,
111
which took place at the home at 12 o'clock p. m. on the
2nd of March.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 March 1905
The funeral services of Marshall Lambert were
held at the Hotel Lambert, at 10 o'clock a.m., Saturday.
They were conducted by Rev. Murray, of the M. E.
church, assisted by Rev. Adams of St. John's Episcopal
church. A large number of the deceased's friends were
present to pay their last respects to one of the early
settlers and pioneers of Kay county. The music in
charge of Mr. J. Wharton was most beautiful. Mr.
Lambert was a prominent republican and was a brother
of Mr. Ike Lambert, formerly U. S. District Attorney for
Kansas. As postmaster and citizen he was uniformly
polite and courteous to all and had many warm friends
in the city, county and territory. --Newkirk Republican
[Marshall Lambert was postmaster of Newkirk,
Oklahoma.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 March 1905
Obituary.--Wright Holmes Auchmoody was born in
Ulster county, New York, on April 6th 1832 and died at
the home of his daughter. Mrs. Dr. Smith, in Ponca
City, Oklahoma, February 26th 1905, aged 72 years, 10
months and 29 days.
On April 19th, 1864, he was united in marriage to
Miss May Hester York, with whom he lived happily
until his death. To this union were born two children,
Eli C. Auchmoody of Los Angeles, California and Ida
S., now Mrs. Dr. Smith of this city.
He responded to Mr. Lincoln's first call for soldiers
to defend the union and served faithfully for nearly four
years.
He was wounded in the battle of Honey Hill, from
which wound he suffered much. In the early days of
the war he was made sergeant and later on for gallantry
was promoted to second and then to first lieutenancy.
He was a member of the Grand Army of the republic,
but had not united with the Post here.
He and his wife, who survives him, united with the
Congregational church in Wichita, Kansas. In his last
sickness he expressed a desire to depart and be with the
Lord saying that he was ready.
The funeral sermon was preached at the home of
Dr. Smith, his son-in-law, by Rev. C. F. McGaha,
pastor of the M. E. church from the text, "For here we
have no continuing city, but we seek one to come." The
Neibergali quartette sang beautifully, "One Sweetly
Solemn Thought" and "When Peace Like a River." The
remains were laid away in the I. O. O. F. cemetery to
await the resurrection morning.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 March 1905
Mrs. Christina Rilbernd, wife of L. S. Rilbernd, died
at the family home on south Second street last night.
Short funeral services will be held at the home at four
o'clock tomorrow afternoon, conducted by Rev. C. F.
112
McGaha, pastor of the Methodist church and the body
will be taken on the evening train to Chanute, Kansas,
for burial. The K of P. lodge will attend the funeral in a
body, and the members of the lodge will act as escort of
the remains to the train.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 9 March 1905
The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Art Stacy died
last Thursday and was buried Friday. The parents have
the sympathy of their numerous friends in Ponca City.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 9 March 1905
Body of Mrs. DeNoya Exhumed. -- The remains of
Mrs. Josephine DeNoya were exhumed Wednesday
morning under the direction of County Attorney Conley
and dr. E. H. Bagby, coroner, and thoroughly examined
with a view of thoroughly setting at rest any theories as
to the exact injuries leading to her death.
The body was in an excellent condition and it is
understood that the autopsy revealed no new features.
The examination was public and made in the
presence of a number of our citizens. Dr. G. H. Phill,s
(sic) of Pawnee was also present at the request of the
officers conducting the examination, and took a detailed
description of all marks of violence to be found about
the person of the deceased.
The body was then re-interred and the officers left.
It was their intention when they left here to summon a
jury over at Ralston and examine some witnesses
relative to the circumstances following the lady's death.
As yet nothing has been herd from Ralston about the
matter. --Osage Journal.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 March 1905
Obituary. -- Harrison Boyd was born in Woodruff
county, Arkansas, in 1857, died at the home of Mr. and
Mrs. M. H. Tully in Cross, Oklahoma, February 26,
1905, the body being taken to Gatesville, Texas, for
burial beside that of his wife, who died some years ago.
When a boy he removed with his parents from the
place of his birth to Gatesville, Texas, where he
continued to reside until about two yeas ago, when he
came here and made his home with Mr. And Mrs. Tully
until his death. He was an upright and just man, and
indulgent and affectionate husband and father and a
neighbor in the best meaning of the term, being ever
ready to assist the needy. He was loved by all who
knew him and his death is mourned by a large circle of
friends. He leaves a family of seven children--six sons
and one daughter--three brothers and one sister in
sorrow for the loss of one near and dear to them. He
was a highly respected member of the Masonic
fraternity, and the members of that order took charge of
the funeral services here and escorted the body to the
train which bore it to the old home in Texas. [See
obituary in the Democrat, 20 March 1905.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 March 1905
Jim Atkinson, a colored man who formerly lived
in this city [Arkansas City, Kansas] is on trial at
Newkirk before the district court on a charge of murder.
Atkinson was a cook at Ponca City and about a year
ago he was at the home of Jim Owens, another colored
man, when Owens and he got to drinking and someone
produced a revolver. The two men got to scuffling for
the possession of the gun when it was discharged and
Mrs. Owens was killed. Since then Atkinson has been
in the county jail at Newkirk awaiting trial. He has
been used as a trusty (sic) under Sheriff Wooden's
administration, to do the cooking for the prisoners. It is
the opinion of those who understand the case that
Atkinson will not be convicted. Dan Hunnell went to
Newkirk this morning to testify in the case, he having
known Atkinson when he lived here.---A. C. Traveler.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 20 March 1905
Ida May, three-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Jacob Baughman, died Friday night, February 24,
1905, from an operation for appendicitis. The funeral
services were held at the M. E. church, Saturday
afternoon, conducted by the pastor, Rev. C. F. McGaha,
and the remains laid to rest in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
The sorrowing relatives have the sympathy of all their
friends in their bereavement.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 20 March 1905
Died. -- Sunday evening, February 25, 1905. H. Boyd,
of apoplexy, aged 48 years. Deceased was first
attacked by this dread disease on Friday evening. The
remains were taken to Gainesville, Texas, his former
home, Monday evening, for burial, being escorted to
the depot by the Masonic order of this city, of which he
was a member, and short Masonic services at the hall.
Mr. Boyd had been a resident of Ponca City about three
years, his wife having died here about two years ago
leaving him with five children, four boys and a girl.
One son resides at Bowie, Texas, one at Gainesville,
and one with Jim here, while two small children, and
boy and girl, were living with relatives at Gainesville.
Deceased was one of our best citizens, having led an
exemplary life and his friends were counted by the
number of his acquaintances. The orphaned children
have the sympathy of the whole community in their sad
affliction.
[See previous obituary in Courier, 16 March 1905.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 April 1905
The funeral of Hamilton Morris, who died at his
home northwest of the city last night, will be held from
the home at 10 o'clock a. m. tomorrow. Burial will be
made in the I. O. O. F. cemetery at this place.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 April 1905
MAN KILLED AT CROSSING. John W. Hatfield
Struck by Engine Near Stockyards. DIED IN TEN
MINUTES. Coroner's Inquest Held Sunday Afternoon
And a Sealed Verdict Returned. Body Shipped to
Wakita. -- John W. Hatfield, a man who had been
working on the Harness & Bell Ranch in the Ponca
country, was struck by the southbound Santa Fe
passenger train Apr. 5, at the crossing near the
stockyards last Saturday evening at 5:00 o'clock and
almost instantly died. When the train struck the wagon
the man was thrown fifty feet in the air, and was picked
up in a neighboring field. Both legs were broken and
the body mangled. He lived about ten minutes. The
wagon was demolished, but the horses ran away
uninjured. Movers camped near the track say that when
the train appeared the horses became unmanageable and
rushed onto the track in front of the engine. Hatfield
had been employed on the Harness & Bell ranch in
hauling corn, and was returning from town to the ranch
when the accident happened. A coroner's inquest was
held Sunday afternoon, but as the jury returned a sealed
verdict, the findings are not made public. Hatfield had
no family here, but two sons lived at Wakita, to which
place the body was shipped today for burial. He was
about 50 years of ages.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 April 1905
Obituary. -- Hamlin Morris was born in Rushville,
Rush county, Indiana, June 23, 1856; died at his home
near Ponca City, Oklahoma, April 10, 1905, aged 55
years. On 13th of July, 1876, he was married to Miss
Rosalene Wolfe in Indianapolis, Indiana, and in 1880
they removed to Winfield, Kansas, coming to their
present home in Kay county in October 1893. He bore
a fine reputation for honesty, industry, and morality,
and was highly respected by all who knew him. He
leaves the wife of his youth, now aged, lonely and
bowed with grief, to mourn the loss of a beloved
husband. The funeral was held at the home at 10
o'clock a.m. today, conducted by Rev. J. A. Tabor, and
the body was laid to rest in the Ponca City cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 April 1905
J. R. Fearnow, father of Mrs. Paul Doepel of this
city, died at Temple Arizona, this morning. The body
will be brought here for burial, leaving Arizona tonight.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 April 1905
It is expected that the body of J. R. Fearnow [7
March 1846 - 13 April 1905] will arrive here from
Colorado tomorrow night and the funeral will be held
Sunday, though no arrangements have been made as
yet.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 April 1905
Mrs. Lucy Maverty died at her home near
Excelsior church in this county, at 2 o'clock p.m. on
Wednesday of this week. The funeral was held at
Excelsior church at 1 p.m. yesterday and the body
buried in the Ponca City Cemetery.
113
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 April 1905
Mrs. Dorlena Kirch, youngest child of H. P.
Newport, died at 8:30 this morning at his residence on
south Ninth street in this city. The funeral will be held
at the Christian church tomorrow, April 19, at three
o'clock p.m., Judge Virgil H. Brown conducting the
services.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 April 1905
The funeral of J. R. Fearnow was held from the
Presbyterian church at 1:30 this afternoon, and was
largely attended, the Fearnows being among the oldest
and most highly esteemed families of this community.
An obituary of the deceased is promised for publication
later.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 April 1905
The funeral of Mrs. Dorlena Newport-Kirch,
daughter of H. P. Newport was held at the Christian
church at 3 o'clock this afternoon. An eloquent and
touching discourse was delivered by Judge Virgil H.
Brown.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 13 April 1905
Hamlin Morris Dead. -- Hamlin Morris died at his
home northeast of Ponca City Monday April 10, from
injuries received from falling from a buggy a short time
ago. The funeral was held at the home at 10 o'clock
Tuesday morning, conducted by Rev. J. A. Tabor, with
interment in I. O. O. F. cemetery. Deceased leaves a
wife only to mourn his loss.
Hamilton Morris was one of the pioneer settlers in
Kay county, having located on his farm on September
16, 1893. He was a good citizen, a kind and loving
husband, honest and upright in all his dealings with his
fellowmen. He was born in Rushville county, Indiana,
June 22, 1850 and was 55 years old at death. He was
married to Miss Rosalene Wolfe at Indianapolis,
Indiana, July 13, 1876 and moved to Winfield, Kansas,
in 1880, from whence he came to Oklahoma.
The bereaved widow has the sympathy of all her
friends and acquaintances in her sad hour of trouble.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 13 April 1905
Killed by the Cars. -- Last Saturday night John W.
Hatfield, an employee at the Harness & Bell ranch in
the Ponca country, was struck by the south bound passenger train on the railroad crossing just north of the
stock yards, and almost instantly killed. The wagon
was completely demoralized (sic) but the horses
escaped uninjured. The remains of the unfortunate
victim were picked up and taken to Hayden's
undertaking rooms, where it was found that both legs
were broken, a hole cut in the head just back of the
right ear and the body badly mangled. He lived about
ten minutes after the accident. There were some
movers camped near the track and they say at the
114
approach of the train the horses became unmanageable
and rushed onto the track in front of the engine.
Deceased had no family here, but two sons are
living at Wakita, O. T. where the remains were shipped
for burial.
The coroner held an inquest Sunday and a sealed
verdict returned, but it is predicted by some that the
railroad company is held responsible by the verdict.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 April 1905
Obituary. -- John Richard Fearnow was born March
7, 1846 in Morgan county, west Virginia. Married
October 10, 1896 to Emily Frances Dawson in the same
county. In 1869 they went to Green county, Illinois.
He remained in Illinois until 1893 and from there
removed to Nebraska, where he remained about 7
months. After that he came to Oklahoma and 1894 and
settled at Cross and afterwards he purchased the land
west of Cross, where he lived till the day of his death.
For several months he has been failing and traveled for
his health in Colorado, Arizona and California. He died
April 13, 1905 at his daughter's home in Temple,
Arizona, in his 56th year. He was the father of 13
children, of whom 6 survive him, four boys and 2 girls.
Brother Fearnow united with the church late in life,
uniting first with the Baptist church in 1890. On
coming to Kay county he united with the Presbyterian
church of Ponca City. He was a man strong in faith,
scrupulous in his habits and as his body and mind
weakened he clung more earnestly to the bible.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 April 1905
Ray Shaver Shot. -- We learn by telephone that at
twelve o'clock last night, Ray Shaver, while on his way
from his office to his home in Newkirk, was held up for
the purpose of robbery. He resisted, and was shot
through the body in the lower part of the abdomen. At
last reports he was still alive, but there is small hope of
his recovery. His assailant escaped and has not yet
been captured, though the country is being scoured by
possess. Shaver had about $50 in money on his person,
but the footpad became frightened and ran away
without securing it.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 20 April 1905
Died.-- At the residence of her father, H. P. Newport,
south Ninth street, Tuesday, April 18, 1905, at 8:30
a.m., Mrs. Darlena Kirk. The funeral services were
held at the Christian church conducted by Judge Virgil
H. Brown, an old friend of the Newport family, with
interment in the I. O. O. F. cemetery. The remains were
followed to their lasts resting place by a large
concourse of friends of the family. Deceased was a
resident of Ponca City when a mere child and had a
host of young friends in the city and surrounding
country. The family have the sympathy of all in their
sad affliction. [It is uncertain whether the spelling of
the last name is Kirch, as previously reported, or Kirk
as reported in this article.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 April 1905
Obituary. Lucy A. Fox was born in Brown county,
Ohio, Sept. 27, 1840 and died at her home in Kay
county, Okla., April 12, 1905.
With her parents she moved to Bureau county,
Illinois, when she was 16 years of age, and on the 19th
of April, 18676, she was married to Mr. Leander P.
Mavity. They removed from Illinois to Dallas county,
Iowa, in 1870, and from there to Johnson county,
Nebraska in 1881, coming to Oklahoma in 1898.
Her whole life was spent on the farm with the
exception of 2 years during which time they lived in
Crab Orchard, Nebraska. On coming to Oklahoma they
bought the farm on which they lived until her death.
To their union were born two son, one of whom
died in infancy and the other, Wm. E. Mavity of
Tonkawa, [unreadable text] her husband survives her.
Mrs. Mavity gave her heart to God when she was
but a young girl and has lived a faithful and consistent
Christian life ever showing her unfaltering faith and
trust in God. During her last long illness of several
months she was continually thoughtful of others, but
because of her intense suffering had a desire to depart
and be at rest. It is truly the Christ spirit in the mother
in the home that makes the true home.
At 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon with the family
and friends by her bedside, the King called her home,
and if we could catch but one glimpse of the beauties of
that glorious world she has already seen we could
faithfully say, "Thy will be done."
The funeral services were held in Excelsior M. E.
church of which she was a member. The sermon was
preached from Job 11:14 "If a man die, shall he live
again." With sympathetic and loving hands she was
laid to rest in the beautiful cemetery south of Ponca
City to await until Jesus comes at which time her dust
will be gathered and the immortal shall put on
immortality. Until then, farewell,--Her Pastor A. B.
Housen
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 May 1905
Sudden Death.-- C. W. Connelly, a workman on the
Arcade hotel building, dropped dead this morning soon
after beginning work. Some of the other workmen saw
him fall to the floor, and when they got to him, he was
dead. Heart disease is supposed to be the cause of his
death. Connelly moved here from Newkirk last winter
and has been in the employ of Contractor O. F. Keck
most of the time since. He was about 40 years of age
and leaves a wife and three children. The body was
carried to the home in the Wylde addition where the
family has resided since coming to the city. No
arrangement have yet been made for the funeral.
Deceased was a member in good standing of the A. O.
U. W. and his wife will receive the sum of $2,000 from
that organization.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 May 1905
The body of C. W. Connelly, the man who
dropped dead while at work on the Arcade hotel
yesterday, was shipped to Newkirk this morning and
the funeral held at that place this afternoon.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 May 1905
Died.-- Yesterday morning, of heart failure, G.
(sic) W. Connelly, aged 40 years. Deceased was a
carpenter by profession and at the time of death was
working for O. F. Keck on the Arcade hotel addition.
He and his son were working on the same scaffold,
when he suddenly fell dead. Deceased moved to this
city just recently from Newkirk, and was residing in the
fifth ward. He was a member of the A. O. U. W. at
Newkirk and carried a $2,000 life policy. The remains
will be taken to the county seat on the morning train,
and will be escorted to the train by the Ponca City
lodge. He leaves a wife and three children, aged 8, 7
and 18 respectively. The family has the sincere
sympathy of the community in their sad affliction. [Mr.
Connelly's first name was Charles.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 18 May 1905
Died.-- At his home in Blackwell, Saturday, June
13, W. H. Cornell. Deceased served one term as a
member of the board of county commissioners from the
Blackwell district. He was held in high esteem by all
who knew him, and was a man whose acquaintance was
much sought after. Mr. Cornell had been sick for a year
past and his death has been expected for some time. He
has a son, E. J., living just north of Ponca City, and the
many friends here will extend their sincere sympathy to
the sorrowing relatives.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 23 May 1905
Adam Wageck Dead. -- Adam Wageck, an old and
well known citizen of this city, died at the Norman
Sanitarium last night. His son George left for Norman
this morning and will return with the body tomorrow,
when arrangements will be made for the funeral. Mr.
Wageck was taken to the Sanitarium about a year and a
half ago.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 May 1905
Obituary. -- Adam Wageck was born in Morsheim,
Hessen Amstadt, Germany, April 23, 1849, died May
23, 1905, aged 55 years and one month. At the age of
17 he came to America and settled at McGregor, Iowa,
where he engaged in business, making his home here
until his death.
Adam Wageck was a good citizen and was held in
high esteem by all who knew him as was evidenced by
the large attendance of old friends and neighbors at his
funeral.
The funeral was held at the home in this city at
3:30 o'clock on Wednesday, may 24, 1904, the services
being conducted by Rev. C. F. McGaha, pastor of the
115
Methodist church, and burial was made in the I. O. O.
F. cemetery.
Deceased leaves a wife and five children--three
sons and two daughters--to mourn the loss of a kind
husband and father. The wife and one son, Geo. A.
Wageck, reside in Ponca City; H. J.., William E., and
Hattie Wageck and Mrs. Clara Sheely all reside in
Omaha, Nebraska.
[in a related article from the same newspaper] H. J.
Wageck arrived from Omaha last night, too late to be
present at the funeral of his father, Adam Wageck,
which was held at 3;30 in the afternoon. He left Omaha
in time to arrive here at noon, but was delayed on the
road by belated trains.
[An obituary containing the same information was also
appears in the Democrat of 25 May 1905.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 May 1905
George Collins, a colored man, aged 44-years,
died at the home of his sister, Mrs. Bibbs on north
Fourth Street this morning, of paralysis. The funeral
will be held at the Methodist church, Wednesday at
2:30 p.m. The deceased was a widower and leaves one
child, a daughter. His home was in Omaha.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 June 1905
The funeral of George Collins, the colored man
who died at the home of his sister, Mrs. Bibbs, on
Monday, was held from the Methodist church at 2:30
o'clock yesterday afternoon. Among the colored people
who attended the funeral from a distance were Elder
Bates and wife of Arkansas City, and Rev. Adams of
Newkirk.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 June 1905
J. T. Howard, an old resident of Kay, died at his
home near Blackwell last Sunday morning, after a
lingering illness of kidney trouble.
Mrs. A. C. Wheatley, wife of the murdered man at
Anadarko, and a former resident of this city, died at
Anadarko last week during the trial of her son-in-law
who was being tried for the murder. Mrs. Wheatley has
been very ill since the murder which occurred about a
year ago.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 June 1905
Card of Thanks. We desire to return sincere thanks to
the friends and neighbors for their assistance and
sympathy during the illness and death and burial of our
beloved wife and mother. Such kindness can never be
forgotten. B. F. Walton, Elmer Walton, Lon King
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 June 1905
Died.-- At her home in the fifth ward of this city,
Saturday evening, June 3, at 9:00 p.m., of inflammation
of the stomach, Mrs. Armilda Walton, wife of B. F.
Walton, at the age of fifty-two years. The funeral was
held at the M. E. church Monday afternoon, the sermon
preached by Rev. McGaha. The remains were laid to
116
rest in the Longwood cemetery, followed by a large
concourse of friends and relatives. Deceased was born
at Columbus, Indiana, and was married at that place to
Mr. Walton in 1878. She was a member of the Baptist
church, holding her membership at Newkirk. The host
of friends of the family will extend their sincere
sympathy in this sad hour of bereavement.
Mrs. Alice Mott of Santa Rosa, New Mexico, and
A. J. Graves of El Paso, Texas were in the city this
week to attend the funeral of their mother, Mrs. B. F.
Walton.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 June 1905
R. L. Torbit, of this city received the sad intelligence
yesterday of the death of his father, John A. Torbit of
Lincoln, Nebraska, Sunday May 21, at the age of 87
years. Deceased had been a member of the church for
more than 67 years. He leaves a wife, four sons, and a
daughter to mourn his loss.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 8 June 1905
May Belle Wooden, wife of Sheriff C. W.
Wooden, of Kay county, Oklahoma, died last evening
about 5 o'clock at the St. Frances hospital in this city.
Mrs. Wooden was brought here about two weeks ago.
She was then in a critical condition and the only hope
for recovery was in a surgical operation, but this proved
of no avail. Her husband was with her during the
critical period and was at her side when she passed
away. The body has been prepared for burial by I. W.
Gill and will be taken this morning over the Santa Fe at
8:30 to Newkirk where the funeral will be held. Mrs.
Wooden was 44 years of age. The funeral services will
be held tomorrow.--Thursday's Wichita Eagle.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 June 1905
Mrs. Wooden Dead. -- May Belle Wooden, wife of
sheriff Wooden, died in the hospital at Wichita, Kansas,
Wednesday evening June 7th, from the effects of an
operation performed last Tuesday.
The remains were brought to the city this morning
(Thursday) and services were held at the home of the
deceased, conducted by Rev. Shepherd. The remains
were interred in Newkirk cemetery. -- Newkirk
Democrat.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 June 1905
H. T. Simmons died at his home nine miles
northeast of town yesterday of cancer. The funeral was
held at the home at 10 a.m. today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 June 1905
Mrs. Florence Miller, wife of E. K. Miller of the
Chilocco schools, died this morning at 4 o'clock. Mrs.
Miller had been sick but one week, and her death was
caused by appendicitis. Mrs. Miller was twenty-nine
years of age, and had been married ten years. Besides
her husband she leaves a son, Richard, who is seven
years of age. Mrs. Crane and Mrs. Carter, mother and
sister of Mrs. Miller, were with her when she died,
having been called from their home at Brookfield,
Missouri, last Saturday. Mr. Miller is the printer at
Chilocco and his wife held the position of matron of the
girls' home. She was a kind and loving wife and
mother, and w was well liked by every one who knew
her. The remains will be shipped to Brookfield,
Missouri, this evening over the Santa Fe for burial, and
she will be laid to rest by the side of her father. -Arkansas city X-Ray.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 June 1905
Mrs. S. L. Scott died at the family home on south
Seventh street last night, of consumption, aged 41
years. She leaves a husband and five children. Short
funeral services were held at the home at 3 p.m. today
and the body will be taken to Dexter, Iowa for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 June 1905
Obituary. -- Ollie R. Perryman was born on the 5th
day of January, 1864 in Mercer county, Missouri, and
departed this life on the 19th of June, 1905, aged 41
years, 5 months and 14 days.
On the 2nd day of March, 1884, she was united in
marriage to S. L. Scott. To this union was born six
children--three boys and three girls--one of which, an
infant boy, preceded her to the better world. The
husband and five children are left to mourn her
departure.
At the age of 17, Mrs. Scott was converted and
united with the church and lived a consistent Christian
life until the date of her death. She was a member of
the Presbyterian church. Because she was a great
sufferer with the dread disease consumption, and unable
to attend church services since coming here, she had
retained her membership with the church in Dexter,
Iowa. Although deprived of the privilege of church
services much of the time, she always maintained a
strong faith in her Savior and love for the church. She
expressed herself as ready at the Master's call, and has
gone to rest. A devoted wife, a loving mother and kind
neighbor has gone. May the father who comforted her
in her affliction sustain the husband, children and kind
friends who are left behind. "Blessed are the dead who
die in the Lord. They rest from their labors and their
works do follow them."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 June 1905
Mrs. Florence Miller, wife of E. K. Miller of the
Chilocco schools, died this morning at 4 o'clock. Mrs.
Miller had been sick but one week, and her death was
caused by appendicitis. Mrs. Miller was twenty-nine
years of age, and had been married ten years. Besides
her husband she leaves a son, Richard, who is seven
years of age. Mrs. Crane and Mrs. Carter, mother and
sister of Mrs. Miller, were with her when she died,
having been called from their home at Brookfield,
Missouri, last Saturday. Mr. Miller is the printer at
Chilocco and his wife held the position of matron of the
girls' home. She was a kind and loving wife and
mother, and was well liked by every one who knew her.
The remains will be shipped to Brookfield, Missouri,
this evening over the Santa Fe for burial. and she will
be laid to rest by the side of her father. --Arkansas city
X-Ray.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 June 1905
Mrs. S. L. Scott died at the family home on south
Seventh street last night, of consumption, aged 41
years. She leaves a husband and five children. Short
funeral services were held at the home at 3 p.m. today
and the body will be taken to Dexter, Iowa for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 June 1905
Obituary. -- Ollie R. Perryman was born on the 5th
day of January, 1864 in Mercer county, Missouri, and
departed this life on the 19th of June, 1905, aged 41
years, 5 months and 14 days.
On the 2nd day of March, 1884, she was united in
marriage to S. L. Scott. To this union was born six
children--three boys and three girls--one of which, an
infant boy, preceded her to the better world. The
husband and five children are left to mourn her
departure.
At the age of 17, Mrs. Scott was converted and
united with the church and lived a consistent Christian
life until the date of her death. She was a member of
the Presbyterian church. Because she was a great
sufferer with the dread disease consumption, and unable
to attend church services since coming here, she had
retained her membership with the church in Dexter,
Iowa. Although deprived of the privilege of church
services much of the time, she always maintained a
strong faith in her Savior and love for the church. She
expressed herself as ready at the Master's call, and has
gone to rest. A devoted wife, a loving mother and kind
neighbor has gone. May the father who comforted her
in her affliction sustain the husband, children and kind
friends who are left behind. "Blessed are the dead who
die in the Lord. They rest from their labors and their
works do follow them."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 June 1905
Card of Thanks. We desire to return our sincere thanks
to the friends and neighbors who so kindly gave their
assistance and sympathy during the sickness and at the
death and burial of our beloved husband and father.
Such kindness can never by forgotten. Mrs. Simmons,
S. D. Simmons, W. F. Simmons, J. R. Simmons, L. L.
Simmons, Omer Simmons, Jenette Hulse.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 22 June 1905
Died -- At her home on south Seventh Street, Monday
night of consumption, Mrs. S. L. Scott, aged 41 years.
117
A husband and five children survive her. The funeral
services were held at the house Tuesday afternoon, at 3
o'clock, and the remains were taken to Dexter, Iowa, on
the evening train, where she will be interred in the
family cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 June 1905
Obituary. Armilla Walton was born in Indiana in the
year 1852 and died at her home in Ponca city,
Oklahoma, on June 3rd, 1905, aged 52 years. In 1878
she was married to B. F. Walton. They lived happily
together until her death. Two children preceded her to
the other world and two are left behind.
Sister Walton was converted and joined the Baptist
church when a girl and lived a faithful Christian until
God said, "It is enough, come up higher." Her death
was beautifully triumphant. She said to the writer, "It is
all right whether I live or die." And only a little while
before she died, she said, "I am so happy."
She selected the text from which she desired her
funeral preached, 2nd Tim. 16:7-8, "I have fought a
good fight, I have finished my course. I have kept the
faith. Henceforth, then laid up for me a crown of
righteousness, which the Lord, the right hand judge,
shall give me at that day, and not to me only, but to all
them also that love His appearing."
Her funeral was held at the M. E. church the 5th of
June, the writer preaching the sermon, and we laid her
away in the Longwood cemetery to await the mourning
of the resurrection. The God of all grace keep the
lonely husband and sons.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 June 1905
PREMEDITATED MURDER. Martin Julian Killed in
the Public Highway. THREE PERSONS HELD.
Coroner's Inquest Being Held in the City Hall, But No
Evidence of Importance Has Been Secured. -- Martin
Julian, a bar tender at the Pabst Palace saloon, was shot
and killed about 10 o'clock last night while out driving
with Della Lewis of Arkansas City.
Della Lewis tells the following story: She and a
friend, Nellie Edwards, also of Arkansas City have been
staying at the St. Nicholas hotel in this city for several
days. Yesterday evening Julian and Al Harpster, a bar
tender on First street, invited the two girls to go driving
about the city until nearly ten o'clock Julian and the
Lewis girl drove out about one mile east of town and
Turned into a road leading south. After traveling this
road a short distance they met a man on foot, turned
their team and drove back to the main road. They had
driven east about 100 yards when a man stepped from
the side of the road, commanded them to halt, and not
waiting for them to comply, placed his pistol almost
against Julian's right shoulder and fired. The ball
entered just to the left of the right shoulder and came
out under the left shoulder in the back. The horses
became frightened at the shot and started to run. The
girl seized the lines which had fallen from Julian's
118
hands; "Don't shoot again: you have killed him." In
reply he cursed her and started to follow the team.
The girl drove to the home of T. E. Abel, two miles
east of town, and Julian was taken into the house, where
he died half an hour later. Mrs. Abel asked Julian
repeatedly who had shot him and although he talked on
other subjects, he refused to answer the question. The
Lewis girl says that the person who did the shooting
was a large man dressed in dark clothes and wore a
dark slouch hat, but she did not recognize him.
Harpster and the Edwards girl did not return until
after Julian's body had been brought to town. They
were immediately placed under arrest, but claim that
they were not within a mile of where Julian was killed.
Julian had only been here a few months, but bore
the reputation of being a peaceful and sober young man.
Dr. F. L. Wallace was called to the Abel residence,
but the man was dead before he arrived.
The doctor testified at the coroner's inquest that the
bulled entered the man's right breast, just above the
nipple and came out just below the left shoulder blade,
passing clear through the body.
Julian was conscious for some time after being
carried into the Abel house and talked about several
things, but on being questioned in regard to who shot
him became silent and made no reply at all.
The body was brought to town and placed in the
Hayden undertaking rooms, and his parents, who live
somewhere in Kansas, were notified. The only relative
Julian has here is a sister, Mrs. Kilpatrick.
Dr. Widney, county coroner, was notified at Kaw
city and came over and impaneled a jury at about 9:30
this morning. The inquest has been in progress all day,
but no evidence of importance has been secured.
The jury returned the following verdict: Territory
of Oklahoma, County of Kay. An inquisition holden at
Ponca City in Kay county, Territory of Oklahoma, on
the 26th day of June, 1905, before me, the county
coroner of said county, on the body of Martin V. Julian,
there lying dead, by the jurors whose names are
hereunto subscribed: The said jurors upon their oaths
do say: The said Martin V. Julian came to his death by
a gunshot wound by the had of some person unknown
to us. We recommend that the following persons be
held in custody for further investigation: Al Harpster,
Della Lewis, Nellie Edwards.
In testimony whereof, the said jurors have hereunto
set their hands the day and year aforesaid: B. M. Rice,
W. N. Dick, W. S. Wikoff, O. F. Kick, Ham
Collinsworth, J. C. Taylor.
The coroner held that he could not issue a warrant
on the verdict as returned and the parties which the jury
intended to hold for farther examination, but Sheriff
Wooden decided to take them to Newkirk.
[Since there is a quantity of material about this case,
news stories about Julian murder case will be placed
together in this text. The usual chronological
placement of news stories will resume after this case
is completed. Stories will extend to 23 March 1907.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 June 1905
The funeral of Martin V. Julian, the young man
who was murdered in the road east of town Sunday
night was held from the Methodist church at 2 o'clock
p. m. today, and the body was interred in the I. O. O. F.
cemetery. The father of the young man arrived from
Peru, Kansas, last night.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 June 1905
Much strong feeling is expressed in the city
regarding the cold blooded murder of the young man,
Martin V. Julian, last Sunday night. The general
opinion seems to be that a mistake was made in
discharging or attempting to discharge the persons held
for examination before the coroner's jury. It is held
with apparent reasons that these persons at least knew
who the murderer was. They were together during the
evening, one of the women was in the buggy with the
young man who was killed, and it seems sufficiently
probable that they at least know who committed the
murder to justify their detention for further
examination. After hearing the testimony, or rather
lack of testimony, of the two disreputable women, the
coroner's jury, composed of our best citizens, intended
to hold the two women and the man for further
examination. and so returned their verdict, but the
coroner and the attorney for the state held that a warrant
for their detention could not be issued on the verdict as
worded. It is reported that the women were taken to
Newkirk by the sheriff, but if so it was because that
officer thought the case was sufficiently serious to
justify him in holding them on his own responsibility
and not because he had any authority from the coroner's
court to take them. Much indignation is expressed that
more vigorous measures were not taken to locate and
punish the person or persons guilty of this dastardly and
cold blooded murder. It is such lax administration of
our criminal laws as this that encourages crime, and
finally leads to the wrong and disgrace of lynching at
the hands of an outraged community.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 June 1905
Today, on complaint of M. J. Julian, father of
Martin V. Julian, the young man who was murdered
in the road east of town Sunday night. Al Harpster and
Minnie B. Edwards, were arrested, charged with the
murder. The woman was already in custody at
Newkirk, and Harpster was placed in the Ponca City jail
this afternoon, to be taken to Newkirk this evening.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 June 1905
Attorney Maris, who conducted the examination
into the cause of death of Martin V. Julian at the
coroner's inquest on Monday of this week, is of the
opinion that he was not quite fairly treated by the
Courier in it comments upon the case last night. The
sole object of this paper was to see that the parties
guilty of the murder of young Julian should be brought
to justice, and the connection of Mr. Maris or anybody
else with the case was not considered at all. We believe
that Mr. Maris was entirely honest and conscientious in
this instance as he is in all his professional and private
dealings, but that is only a secondary consideration.
The main object is to search out and punish the person
who committed the crime, and the general feeling is
that the coroner's inquest fell short of this purpose. The
good name of Ponca City is at stake, and in that
contingency the feelings or desires of the individual can
not be considered. The people of this community
demand that this crime be located and the guilty parties
punished to the end that its good name and fame as a
law abiding community by no longer brought in
question.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 June 1905
A young man who gives his name of Joe Reeves
suspected to be implicated in the murder of Martin
Julian last Sunday night, was today arrested and lodged
in jail. He was at work on a farm south of town. At the
coroner's inquest on the body of Julian there was some
testimony to the effect that a young man, name
unknown, had made threats against Julian on account of
his having, as he said, "Taken his girl away from him."
Reeves is the young man who is said to have made
these threats. Complaints have been lodged against
Harpster and the two girls examined at the inquest,
charging them with murder in the first degree, but it
seems that the probate judge is able to find some law or
authority for releasing them on bond. The bond is fixed
at $1,500 each. This Harpster has been able to secure,
but the girls have not and are still in jail at Newkirk. So
far nothing has been discovered which tends to clear up
the mystery surrounding the foul crime, but the people
of this community are thoroughly aroused and every
effort will be made to locate and punish the guilty
parties. It is felt that the limit of tolerance has been
reached in regard to crimes of this kind, and vigorous,
thorough measures must be taken to protect the good
name of the community from further shame and
disgrace. All that is demanded in that the laws be
enforced and not evaded by slick or unauthorized
procedures in the way of accepting bail for unbailable
cases, delays and half-hearted prosecutions. The time
has come for the enforcement of the laws, as well for
the protection of the innocent as for the punishment of
the guilty.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 13 July 1905
The preliminary trial of Al Harpster and the two
girls charged with the murder of Martin Julian, before
Judge Musselman, at Newkirk last week, resulted in
Harpster and the Edwards girl being bound over to the
grand jury without bond, and the Lewis girl held in
119
$100 bond to appear as a witness in the case. Much
new evidence was brought out in the preliminary.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 20 July 1905
The result of the habeas corpus case of Al Harpster
and Nellie Edwards, held for the murder of Martin
Julian, was that Harpster was held to await the action
of the grand jury and Miss Edwards was released from
custody.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 August 1905
THE HARPSTER CASE. Della Lewis Wanted as
Witness in Application for Bail. -- Arkansas City, Aug.
14.--The Traveller says: sheriff Charley Wooden, of
Kay County, was in the city this morning to get Della
Lewis and take her to Newkirk. She is wanted as a
witness in the case of the territory vs. Al Harpster, who
is charged with the murder of Martin Julian, a bartender
of Ponca City. Tomorrow Harpster's appeal admittance
to bail comes up before Judge Burford, at Guthrie, and
all the witnesses are wanted there at that time. He has
tried to get bail before, but his efforts were in vain.
Miss Lewis was with Julian at the time he was killed
and it is believed she is a good witness. She was found
and went to Newkirk, this morning with the sheriff.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier 17 August 1905
NO BAIL FOR HARPSTER. Judge Burford Sends
Him Back in Jail to Await Trial. --Guthrie, Aug. 16-Judge J. H. Burford yesterday in chambers refused to
grant an application for habeas corpus brought by
Albert Harpster who is being held in the jail at Ponca
City for the murder of Martin Julian on June 25th;
1905, and who desires to give bond. Judge Burford
after hearing the evidence in the case yesterday refused
his bond, and instructed the officers to hold him for trial
without bail.
Harpster and Julian were both bartenders at Ponca
City and started on Sunday evening June 25th for a ride
in the country with two young ladies. At first they had
intended hiring a double buggy, but a little altercation
arose between the two, supposed to have started
through jealousy on the part of Harpster for the
attentions of the young lady with Julian. Harpster, it is
claimed remarked that he would get even with Julian,
and the two hired separate rigs. Julian was shot about a
mile east of Ponca City, and Harpster was arrested for
the crime.
Five witnesses came down yesterday to testify at
the hearing. Ed Hopton, a liveryman, of Ponca City
who rented the two men the teams testified as to the
conversation, and hot words between the two before
they started.
Lon Crossfield, a farmer living near Ponca City,
testified that he saw Harpster following Julian in a
buggy, going east from the city. Della Brown, the
young lady who was with Julian, testifies as to the
trouble at the livery stable, and stated that she fell
120
asleep soon after leaving the city and did not awake
until a few minutes before the shooting. She testified
that she told Julian she was afraid, but that Julian said
he was not afraid of anyone. Soon after she said
someone walked up to the buggy and shot Julian, and
disappeared before she could tell who it was. Julian
lived about thirty minutes, dying at a farm house close
by to which he was taken.
Nellie Lewis, the young lady who started out with
Harpster, did not come down from Ponca City and it is
said she will say nothing regarding the affair.
Deputy United States Marshal E. N. Regnier who
accompanied the prisoner here testified that he found a
good foot print near where the shooting took place, and
that he took Harpster out there, and mad him place his
foot in the track. Officer Regnier said that the print in
the soft sand was identical with that of the shoe.
Harpster was wearing when he returned from the buggy
ride.
Jerry Williams, a resident of Ponca City, who
accompanied Officer Regnier and Harpster to the place
where the print was verified the statement of Officer
Regnier. Attorneys Cotteral and Hornor represented
Harpster in the hearing and Judge Moore represented
Kay county. Judge Burford heard the matter in the
absence of judge Hainer who had previously refused
bond to Harpster.
The case will come up for trial in the September
term of court.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 January 1906
Al Harpster, who has been in the county jail
charged with the murder of Martin Julian, has been
released on bail and was in the city last Friday visiting
friends. He went to Guthrie where he will remain until
the next term of court.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 31 March 1906
Al Harpster was found guilty of the murder of
Martin Julian by the grand jury, yesterday, and his trial
was set by Judge Hainer for the 10th of April.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 April 1906
Harpster Convicted. -- At four o'clock this afternoon the
jury in the case of Al Harpster, charged with the murder
of Martin Julian, on trial in the district court at
Newkirk, brought in a verdict of murder in the first
degree. The case was given to the jury at 11 o'clock
Wednesday night, and the jury was out from that time
until 4 o'clock this afternoon--11 hours. The verdict is
generally considered as just and righteous.
We understand that the verdict carries with it a life
sentence in the penitentiary at hard labor.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 June 1906
A Queer Story. -- Today Deputy sheriff Al Hatten
received a telephone message from Enid stating that a
man named Ward who was under arrest at that place is
supposed to be the man who murdered Martin Julian at
this place about a year ago. The story is that Ward had
abducted a girl and the officers charged with his
apprehension for the offense found it necessary to shoot
him in order to make the arrest. Being about to die as a
result of the shooting, Ward confessed to the murder of
Julian. The matter will be looked into by Sheriff
Wooden but it is hardly probable that anything will
come of it.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier 9 June 1906.
WARD SAYS HE KILLED JULIAN. Byron Ward,
Fatally Wounded at Enid, Makes Confession. NO
REASON GIVEN. Al Harpster, Tried for the Murder
in the Kay County District Court, is Now Serving a Life
Sentence--Ward Said to Have lived Here at Time of
Murder. Enid, Oklahoma., June 9 -- Byron Ward, after
being fatally wounded in a wheat field near Mena, a
station south of Enid, confessed to the murder of Martin
Julian, which occurred near Ponca City last June and
for which Al Harpster was convicted and is not serving
a life sentence in the Lansing penitentiary.
Ward fled from his home in Garfield county after
having threatened to kill his father, taking with him a
step sister, with whom he was charged with having
immoral relations.
The father reported the matter to the sheriff who
followed Ward to Woods county and was joined by
Woods county officers.
Ward was tracked to a wheat field near Mena, a
small station on the Rock Island, and on being
approached began shooting. A Woods county deputy
returned the fire striking Ward twice, one bullet
shattering the right arm at the elbow, the other passing
through his left arm and shoulder.
As he lay dying the county sheriff, who had been
informed by Ward's father that his son was guilty of the
Julian murder, told him that he was dying and asked for
a confession. Ward replied that he had killed Martin
Julian and that al Harpster was innocent.
The wounded man was put on a stretcher, placed
aboard a Rock Island train and taken to Enid, where he
died last night.
Guthrie, June 9. -- Al Harpster is a brother of Mrs.
T. McKennon of this city.
Judge A. H. Juston was informed last night that
Ward has confessed to having killed Julian. He said: "I
always did believe that Al Harpster was innocent." The
case seems like a romance and to think that it was only
by the chance shooting of the real culprit that Harpster
will be freed."
Steps will be taken immediately to secure
Harpster's release from the penitentiary.
Stranger than fiction.
One year ago this month a young man, Martin
Julian by name, a bartender in a saloon, was shot and
killed while out riding late in the evening in company
with Al Harpster and two girls of doubtful reputation.
The shooting was done a short distance east of this city,
and Julian was driven by the girl in the buggy with him
at the time to the house of T. E. Abel, a farmer, where
he died in a few minutes after he was carried into the
house. The girl claimed that a man had come up to the
buggy in which they were riding and shot Julian, but
she was unable to give a description of the man, further
than to say he was a large man.
Suspicion immediately pointed toward Harpster as
the murderer of Julian. At the coroner's inquest on the
body of the murdered man Harpster and both the young
women were examined as witnesses, but no testimony
farther than that already given by one of the young
women was elicited and the coroner decided that the
evidence was not sufficient to hold Harpster for trial.
There was strong circumstantial evidence, however,
that Harpster was guilty, and shortly after he was
arrested on complaint and at the preliminary hearing
was held without bond for appearance in district court.
Sometime afterwards he was admitted to bail by Judge
Hainer and gave bond and was released from jail. At
the last term of the district court in this county, held in
April, he was tried, found guilty by the jury of murder
in the first degree and sentenced to life imprisonment at
hard labor and was taken to the penitentiary at Lansing,
Kansas, where Oklahoma convicts are held. The
evidence against Harpster was wholly circumstantial,
but it was so strong and conclusive that the jury very
promptly agreed to a verdict of guilty.
Now comes the report that a man on his deathbed
in Enid, having been shot by officers in an attempt to
arrest him for another crime, has confessed that he
himself was the man who killed Julian and that
Harpster had nothing to do with the crime, and the
father of the man corroborates the story by confessing
that he has known all the time that his son killed Julian.
The young man who confessed to the murder died
shortly after making the confession, and left no
intimation of the motive, if any, he had in committing
the crime.
The name of the man is given as Byron Ward, and
the family of which he was a member consisted of the
father and several sons and a woman said to be his
second wife and her daughter. The Wards had lived
here in Ponca city for some time previous to the
removal to Garfield county. They were considered
about as worthless an outfit as ever existed. One son
was recently killed in New Mexico, and the son Byron,
who made confession of the murder of Julian, was
considered weak minded and unreliable. What motive
he could have had for the murder if he committed it or
what motive he could have for confession that he
committed it if he did not, is hard to understand. It is a
decidedly mixed up affair, but it is to be hoped that it
will be straightened out, and if Harpster is not guilty of
the crime for which he was convicted, that he may be
released as soon as possible.
121
[Note: In the following story the man who confessed
to the murder of Julian is called by the name Byron
Cole, not Ward as in the previous stories. Cole was his
birth name, and Ward the name of his Step-father.]
From the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 June 1906
THE
HARPSTER
CASE
RE-OPENED.
The application for rehearing at Newkirk Next
Saturday. BEFORE JUDGE HAINER. Confessions of
Cole and Affidavits of His Parents Constitute the Bulk
of the New Evidence in the Case--Harpster Has Been
Notified at Lansing That He is Likely Soon to Be a Free
Man.
-Guthrie, June 12 -- Next Saturday, Judge Bayard T.
Hainer will hear the application for a rehearing in the
case of Al Harpster, who is now serving a life sentence
in the Lansing penitentiary for the murder of Martin
Julian last June, to which crime Byron Cole confessed
near Enid, Friday, after being fatally wounded by a
sheriff's posse.
Affidavits secured by Foster McKennon of this city
from Mr. and Mrs. Ward, mother and stepfather of
Byron Cole and from Sheriff Campbell of Garfield
county and deputy Sheriff Campbell of Woods county,
show beyond a doubt that Byron Cole was the slayer of
Martin Julian and that Al Harpster, an innocent man, is
paying penalty for the crime.
The strongest evidence which has been secured by
Mr. McKennon is sworn statements from Mr. and Mrs.
Ward stating that on the night Julian was killed east of
the Twin Bridges in Ponca City, that Byron Cole
arrived home in an excited condition and nearing the
house, grabbed his gun as if to protect himself. When
he was asked the cause for his action he replied that he
had "just killed a man."
Soon after the killing, Cole left Kay county, first
warning his parents that he would kill them if they told
of his deed.
He returned to Oklahoma only a few weeks ago,
joining the family in Garfield county, whither they had
moved.
Then came the trouble with his step-father and his
alleged relations with his stepsister, May Ward, which
resulted in his leaving home with the girl last Thursday.
The father then informed the sheriff of the trouble,
telling, in addition to the family row, that Cole was the
murderer of Martin Julian and was a desperate man.
Cole, when dying in a wheat field near Enid, freely
admitted that he had killed Julian in an attempt to hold
him up; as well as telling that he had been connected
with bank and train robberies and had killed a man in
Colorado. At the time of his death Cole was also under
indictment for hog stealing.
There is so much evidence to show Al Harpster's
innocence that the attorney for defense believes that the
granting of a new trial, the county attorney of Kay
county will, with the consent of the court, make a
122
motion to quash the original indictment and bring about
an immediate discharge of the prisoner.
Harpster's conviction was secured through
circumstantial evidence almost entirely. The size of his
boot corresponding with tracks made by the man who
shot Julian, together with the fact that he was supposed
to have been jealous because Julian was driving with
Delia Lewis, formed a chain that placed him in a
difficult position to explain.
Della Lewis who was in the buggy with Julian
when he was killed, testified in court that they were
fired upon by a large man, wearing a slouch hat, who
stepped from the bushes and attempted to hold them up.
It has since been proven that Cole had on a slouch
hat at the time, as he was wearing one which belonged
to his step-father, Ward.
Nellie Edwards, who was in the buggy with
Harpster, swore that she and Harpster did not go east of
the bridge where Julian was killed, hence Harpster
could not have done the shooting.
Attorneys for the defense are of the opinion that
there will be no difficulty in securing a new trial and
hope further that the evidence is sufficient to warrant
the county attorney asking for the dismissal of the case.
Judge Bayard T. Hainer, before whom Harpster
was given the life sentence, is in the city attending the
sessions of the supreme court, but on account of his
position as judge is, of course, unable to make any
statement in regard to the case other than that he will
hear the application for a rehearing Saturday.
Al Harpster has been notified at Lansing that he is
soon to be a free man.
[ A long article in the Ponca City Democrat, 14 June
1906, states the same information as appears in the
above news story.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 June 1906
NOTHING TO HELP HARPSTER. The Alleged Cole
Confession looks like a fake. FIFTEEN DAYS
ALLOWED. The Court Gives Attorney for the
Defense Fifteen Days in Which to File Brief and the
State Five Days to File Answer--Harpster Remains
Where He Is. Perry, June 16. -- A motion for a new
trial was made this afternoon in the case of Al Harpster
convicted at Newkirk and sentenced to life
imprisonment for the murder of Martin Julian, near
Ponca City, the argument was heard by Judge Hainer,
Attorney A. H. Huston of Guthrie appeared for the
defendant and Virgil Brown of Newkirk, attorney of
Kay county appeared for the territory.
Sheriff
Campbell and brother of Garfield county were placed
on the stand and testified that Byron Cole confessed to
attempting to hold up a man at Ponca City and was
compelled to shoot him and that the man was Martin
Julian. The mother and step-father of Cole, Mr. and
Mrs. Ward testified that while living at Ponca City,
Byron Cole left home early in the evening of the
murder and returned late at night. On his arrival home
he woke the people in the house and appeared
frightened crawling under the table and asking for
protection. On being questioned he told of the shooting
of a man while holding him up and did not know
whether he killed him or not. He left home that
morning and failed to re-appear at Ponca City again
until six weeks. The family had since moved to
Lahoma, and Byron came over about midnight June 7.
That evening his mother awoke and saw him light a
match and stand over his stepfather with a Winchester
rifle.
He declared that he wanted to marry his step-sister,
a young girl of 15 years old. They remonstrated with
him, but at the point of the gun he made her get up out
of bed and dress, leaving the tent. The father notified
the sheriff and a posse was sent after him. In the fight
that followed Cole was shot and died later at Enid.
Before the end he acknowledged killing Julian at Ponca
City. His mother testified that when very young Cole
had been bitten by a snake and ever since that time had
been subject to insane spells, having imaginary visions
and hallucinations. It is the general opinion in this city
that the man was insane at the time of his confession.
The step-father of Cole corroborates the statement of
his wife all the way through in every particular.
The only weak spot in the testimony given is that
Cole stated on his death bed that after shooting he
turned and ran from the spot. The testimony of Della
Lewis, who was in the buggy with Julian when he was
shot, state the man who did the shooting followed the
buggy up cursing the woman for her falseness showing
that the one who did the shooting did it only through
jealousy. The testimony showed clearly that Cole was
in Ponca City at the time of the murder. Judge Hainer
gave the attorney for the defense 10 days in which to
file a brief. He also gave five days to the attorney for
the territory in which to file his returns.
[A more concise version of the above story appears in
the 21 June 1906 issue of the Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 June 1906
HARPSTER INTERVIEWED. The Kansas City Star
Reporter Visits Him in the Pen at Lansing. -- Lansing,
Kansas, June 16 -- The confession of Cole Ward that he
had killed Martin Julian brought gladness to Al
Harpster, a life prisoner in the Kansas penitentiary.
Harpster was brought to the Kansas penitentiary April
26, forty-four days ago, to serve the remainder of his
life for murdering Julian. Harpster was convicted
entirely on circumstantial evidence and he had stoutly
maintained his innocence from the time of his arrest,
four days after Julian was killed, until the present. A
reporter for The Star found Harpster in the top tier of
the south wing cell house of the Kansas penitentiary at
10 o'clock tonight and it was soon manifested that he
was a happy man.
"I didn't kill Julian, who was a chum of mine," was
the opening remark of Harpster, when asked to tell his
story, "Julian was a good friend and comrade of mine
for the two months I knew him, before he was killed. It
was reported that we were jealous over Dell Lewis, the
girl he was riding with the night he was killed, but it
isn't the case. I had no occasion to be jealous.
Julian and I spent part of the afternoon together
before the night he was killed: We procured buggies
and he took Dell Lewis and I took Nellie Edwards
riding. We drove south of town and came back and
then drove north of town, I mean Ponca City. I was
driving ahead of Julian and returned to Ponca City and
had my horse in the livery barn at 10 o'clock. Julian
was not killed until 10:20. Julian was shot while
driving through a strip of timber in a buggy. After he
was shot the woman took him to a farm house where he
died within three quarters of an hour.
"He made no statement implicating me. I was
arrested Wednesday after the shooting and was
convicted mainly on the evidence of a farmer who
swore he saw me driving in the neighborhood shortly
before Julian was shot and because the shoes I wore
fitted in size the footprints of the man who shot Julian.
It was all circumstantial evidence. The woman with me
was not put on the witness stand and four men at the
livery stable swore I returned the buggy before ten
o'clock. The jury was out forty-eight hours before
returning a verdict against me.
"Did I know Ward? no, I never met him. There
must have been some good in him to confess before he
died so that I would not suffer all my life. I may sound
strange when I say that for the last two days I had a
presentiment that I would get good news. I could not
get this out of my head. I just felt that there was good
news. Only yesterday I told the foreman something
was in me telling me that there was good news
coming."
from the Ponca City Democrat, 13 September 1906
Judge Hainer granted Al Harpster a new trial last
Tuesday and ordered the sheriff to bring him from the
Lansing penitentiary and admit him to a $5,000 bail
pending a new trial, which will probably be had in
about a year. Harpster's friends here will be glad to
hear of his good luck.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 March 1907
HARPSTER NOT GUILTY. Close of a Trial Which
has Attracted Wide Notice. JURY OUR FOUR
HOURS. Ponca City Man Cleared of Charge of
Murder After Being Once Sentenced to Imprisonment
for Life--Cole Confession not Considered. -- The case
of Al Harpster, charged with the murder of Martin
Julian in this city about two years ago, went to the jury
yesterday afternoon at 5 o'clock and after being out for
about four hours a verdict of not guilty was returned.
The opinion has been quite prevalent that Harpster was
123
not guilty and a favorable verdict was expected. So far
as can be ascertained there were no new features
developed in the trial, the alleged confession of Cole
having been ruled out by Judge Hainer, there being no
grounds for its introduction.
One year ago last September Al Harpster was
convicted in the District court at Newkirk of the murder
of Martin Julian and sentenced to imprisonment for 99
years. Harpster was taken to the Kansas penitentiary on
April 26 of last year to begin serving his sentence. He
was convicted entirely on circumstantial evidence, and
he stoutly maintained his innocence from the time of
his arrest, four days after Julian was killed.
Julian, who was a bartender at the Pabst Palace
saloon in this city, and Harpster were supposed to be
good friends. In June, 1905, the former was shot and
killed while out riding late in the evening with Harpster
and two girls of doubtful reputation. The shooting was
done a short distance east of this city, and Julian was
driven by the girl in the buggy with him at the time to
the house of T E. Abel, a farmer, where he died a few
minutes after he was carried into the house. The girl
claimed that a man had come up to the buggy and shot
Julian, but she was unable to give a description of the
man, further than to say he was a large man. Suspicion
immediately pointed to Harpster as the murderer. At
the coroner's inquest Harpster and both the young
women were examined, but no evidence sufficient to
hold Harpster was secured.
There was strong
circumstantial evidence, however, that Harpster was
guilty, and shortly thereafter he was arrested and held
without bond for appearance in district court. Later he
was admitted to bail and released from jail. At the
September, 1905, term of court he was tried and found
guilty of murder in the first degree. The evidence was
wholly circumstantial, but strong enough as to appear
conclusive. At the time a Negro in jail at Guthrie
claimed to have committed the crime.
Last June a man by the name of Byron Cole was
fatally wounded by officers in a wheat field near Mena,
in Garfield county, and before he died confessed to
having fired the shot that killed Julian, and claimed that
Harpster had nothing to do with the crime, and the
father of the man corroborated the story by confessing
that he had know all the time that his son had killed
Julian. The young man died shortly after making the
confession and left no intimation of the motive, if any,
he had in committing the crime. At the time of the
murder Cole was known to have been in this city. His
parents and several brothers also resided here. Later
they removed to Garfield county.
They were
considered a rather worthless outfit. The one who made
the confession of murder was considered weak-minded
and unreliable, and little credence was given his story.
On Jun 16 motion for a new trial was made by
Harpster's attorneys to Judge Hainer at Perry and the
request was granted. At that time the officers who shot
Cole testified as to the substance of the confession,
124
which was that Cole had held up and shot a man near
Ponca City and that the man was Martin Julian. This
was corroborated by Cole's mother and step-father, Mr.
and Mrs. Ward, who claimed to have known all along
that their son had committed the crime. The only weak
spot in Cole's confession was wherein he stated that
after firing the shot he had turned and ran. Della Lewis,
the girl who was with Julian in the Buggy, had testified
that the man who did the shooting followed the buggy
up cursing her for her falseness, showing that the one
who did the shooting did it only through jealously.
Harpster was released from the penitentiary pending the
new trial and has been working at various places in the
territory.
The trial, which has occupied the time of the court
this week, has attracted a great deal of attention on
account of its complicated nature. It was the worst
mixed up affair ever in the courts of this county, and the
fact that Al Harpster has been acquitted of participating
in it will be gratifying to his friends. The fact that
Judge Hainer refused to admit as evidence the alleged
confession of Cole is good grounds for supposing it to
be of little consequence. If Cole was not the guilty
party, and many believe his confession to be only the
workings of a disordered brain, then will the cause of
the murder of Martin Julian remain a profound mystery
and the guilty party never be brought to the bar of
justice.
The fact that Al Harpster was convicted of a
murder which he never committed is a matter of regret,
but he can now breath the free air once again, which
will be all the sweeter for having been once withheld.
[This is the end of the Harpster case. Once again the
obituaries will be in chronological order resuming in
July 1905 immediately the Harpster and Julian
murder case began.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 July 1905
FIGHT WITH OUTLAWS. One Officer and One
Outlaw Dead, Several Others wounded. -- Winfield,
Kan., July 12 --C. S. Calhoon, of Kansas City, an
Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe representative was shot
and instantly killed at Cedarvale early today by two
outlaws, who were shot down later by a posse of
citizens at Hewins, seven miles from Cedarvale, close
to the Oklahoma state line.
One of the outlaws, Ed Madigan, of Ponca City,
Okla., was instantly killed by the posse. The other,
William Chadburn of this city (Winfield, Kan.) was
shot through the foot, and a woman named Malone was
struck in the leg by a stray bullet.
Madigan and Chadburn held up and robbed six
traveling men at the Bretton hotel at Winfield Sunday
night last, and escaped. At Cedarvale last night,
Detective Calhoon encountered both of the outlaws on
the street. Not being positive of their identity, Calhoon
secured the city marshal and one of the robbed traveling
men and all three started in a carriage in search of the
two men. Early today they drove past the men in a side
street. The traveling man identified them and the trio in
the carriage were just in the act of making a stand when
either Madigan or Chadburn opened fire, Calhoon was
shot through the heart and the outlaws made their
escape temporarily.
The marshal and the traveling man taken by
surprise, were unable to fire a single shot in return.
Calhoon's body was taken to an undertaker's rooms
and the town aroused. The outlaws stole two horses
and started for the Hewins. While a posse was
gathering at Cedarvale, word was wired ahead to
Hewins, where the deputy sheriff quickly gathered a
score of armed men about him. Within two hours the
outlaws rode up to a hardware store at Hewins secured
a rifle and revolver, and started out of town on a gallop.
Just as Madigan and Chadburn were leaving the
main street, the posse opened fire from the protection of
a store. The robbers returned the fire and a lively
fusillade ensued. Finally Madigan fell from his horse,
dying almost instantly.
Another bullet soon brought Chadburn to the
ground, shot through the bowels. During the exchange
of shots, J. M. Pope, a member of the posse, received a
slight wound in the foot and Mrs. Malone, who had
been attracted to the scene by the firing, was shot in the
leg. Her wound is not serious.
Madigan's body was taken to Cedarvale and
Chadburn was placed in the hospital, where it is said he
cannot live. Madigan and Chadburn were each under
30 years of age. Chadburn had served time in the
Kansas penitentiary for robbery. Nothing is known of
Madigan. Calhoon is 40 years of age.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 July 1905
W. G. Walnscott, an old settler, living five miles
northwest of the city, died Monday morning of Bright's
disease at the age of 76 years. The remains were
shipped to Bolivar, Missouri, for burial. He leaves a
wife and several grown up sons and daughters to mourn
his loss.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 July 1905
Charlotte Boyes, a colored woman, died last
Friday night at the city jail, from the effects of cocaine.
She had been employed at the Planters hotel in the
laundry department, but the effects of the deadly drug
caused her to become violent and she was locked up,
with the above results. [the 29 June 1905 edition of the
Courier carried the story of an earlier arrest: "A
colored woman, working in the laundry of the Planters
hotel, made things lively around there for a spell
yesterday. It was thought that she was crazy and was
locked up. Later in the day she was released and sent
home. An overdose of cocaine is supposed to have
caused the trouble."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 August 1905
Obituary. -- The Newkirk Republican News Journal
has the following obituary notice of Mrs. Dunlop, wife
of County Treasurer Dunlop, who died at the family
home in Newkirk last Sunday.
Our community and Kay county (unreadable type)
to hear of the sad death of Mrs. Dunlop. She was a
most popular lady, and the home, so pleasant in all its
surroundings, with the tender love and care of a devoted
husband, is suddenly made desolate. Never in its
history has our city and the county generally been so
deeply stricken with grief as on this occasion. A
beautiful life has gone from us to its great reward, for
her was a life of Christian self-sacrifice. Flora B.
Christian Dunlop was born March 31, 1877, at Holden
Missouri. Departed this life July 30, 1905. Her early
life was spent at Holden. She joined the Christian
church at the age of 13 years, and has lived a consistent
Christian life ever since.
She finished the public
school in Kansas four years and attended the State
Normal at Emporia, afterward coming to Oklahoma
during September, 1900, making her home with her
grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Shaw of Blackwell.
She governed her schools by love, having perfect order.
All of the pupils had the greatest love and respect for
her and did not disobey, thus exercising the divine
command that has gone forth: "Love ye one another."
She was married to Robert Dunlop our present
County Treasurer, June 7, 1904, at Blackwell by Rev.
H. L. Moore. She leaves husband, infant daughter,
mother, three brothers and many friends to mourn her
absence.
The funeral took place Wednesday at the Christian
church in this city under the direction of the Masonic
Lodge. Rev. Love preached the sermon. The flowers
furnished by the ladies of the Mystic Club, Masons,
friends and relatives were most beautiful. The glee club
sang the hymns. The burial occurred at the [Prairie
View] cemetery six miles below Tonkawa near Mr.
Dunlop's country residence.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 10 August 1905
Obituary. -- Mrs. Flora B. Christian Dunlop, born
March 30, 1877 at Holden, Mo., departed this life July
30, 1905. Her early life was spent at Holden, Mo. She
joined the Christian church at the age of 13 years. Has
lived a consistent Christian life. She finished in the
public school at Holden. Her parents moved to Allen,
Kansas, where her father died in 1895. She taught
school in Kansas for four years, attending school at the
State Normal during vacations. Came to Oklahoma
during September 1900, making her home with her
grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Shaw of Blackwell.
She taught school near Tonkawa two years and two
years near Blackwell. She governed her schools by
gaining the affection and love of her pupils having the
greatest love and respect for her would not disobey thus
125
exercising the divine command that has gone forth,
"Love ye one another."
She was married to Robert Dunlop, our county
treasurer, June 7, 1904, by Rev. H. Moore at Blackwell.
She leaves a husband, infant daughter, mother, three
brothers and many friends who mourn her absence.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 August 1905
The twin children of Mr. and Mrs. M. D. Finiff
died at the family home on south Second street--one
Thursday, the other this morning--and both were buried
from the home this afternoon. The babies were aged
three months, one a boy and the other a girl. The
parents have the sincere sympathy of their friends and
neighbors in the affliction that has befallen them.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 17 July 1905
Mr. and Mrs. M. D. Finiff of south Second street,
lost their twin babies, on dying on Thursday last and
the other on Friday, aged three months. Both were
buried in I. O. O. F. cemetery Saturday afternoon.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 17 July 1905
The infant boy baby of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Ward
died Sunday morning and was buried Monday
afternoon in the Odd Fellows cemetery. The bereaved
parents have the sympathy of their friends in their sad
affliction
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 August 1905.
Charley Muchow Dead. --At about noon today C. W.
Muchow, whose farm is about three miles northeast of
town, came into the house from work in the field, and
complaining that he was not feeling well, laid down on
the bed and ten minutes later was dead. The cause of
death is supposed to be the bursting of a blood vessel.
Charley Muchow, as he is generally known, is one
of our most prominent farmers, coming here at the
opening and owning at the time of his death, one of the
best improved farms in the county. He was about fifty
years of age and leaves a wife and several children.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 31 August 1905
Died--Just as we go to press word is received at
this office of the death of Chas. Muchow, a prominent
farmer residing two miles north of town. Mr. Muchow
had gone to his field to cut grass when he had a stroke
of apoplexy, which caused his death in a short time.
Dr. Morey was called but the patient had gotten beyond
all human power before he arrived. Death occurred at
12 o'clock noon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 2 September 1905
Arine Brown, the little three year old daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Brown, living two miles north and
four miles east of Kildare was accidentally shot
Tuesday morning at 7:30. She died a few hours after
the accident. The shot was from a 22 rifle which had
126
been left on the bed. The little girl was playing about
the house and it is thought that in climbing on the bed
she knocked the gun to the floor and it discharged. The
ball entered the child's back just below the shoulder
penetrating the left lung and passing upward and
through the neck. The funeral services were held at the
Junkins church conducted by Rev. Turner. This was a
terrible shock to the bereaved family and they have the
heart felt sympathy of the entire community.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 September 1905
The infant children - twins - of W. E. Martin,
five miles northwest of town, died last Friday [1
September 1905] and the funeral was held from the
home Saturday afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 September 1905
The three-year-old son of W. H. Wall died at the
family home in the Osage country this morning and the
funeral will be held at the home tomorrow afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 September 1905
Lyrntz Riba, a Bohemian, died at his farm home,
eight miles northeast of town, on Saturday and the
funeral was held yesterday. He was 38 years of age and
leaves a wife and four children.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 September 1905
Mrs. Fleming [Kittie B., Fleming, b. 30 May 1884
- d. 5 September 1905 Newkirk Cemetery.] died at the
home of her parents northeast of Newkirk last Monday.
Many of our people attended the funeral Tuesday. She
and her husband resided here last winter when Mr.
Flemming taught in our schools. The husband and
surviving relatives have the sympathy of our whole
community.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 September 1905
ARRESTED FOR MURDER. Fred Voils Arrested at
Wellington, Kansas, for Killing of Ray Shaver. -Arkansas City, Sept. 11 -- The Traveler publishes the
following story: Fred Voils was arrested yesterday at
Wellington on the charge of murdering Ray Shaver at
Newkirk last April. Voils was living in Newkirk at the
time and just what evidence is held against him and
caused his arrest is unknown. The arrest was made by
Dan Bain, ex-sheriff of Kay county, at the present home
of Voils in Wellington. Voils went to Newkirk without
a requisition.
William Stephenson, of this city (Arkansas City),
was in business at Newkirk at the time of the killing
and he says that it was impossible for Voils to have
done the killing. He says that Voils came into his place
of business about 11 o'clock and was there until
Stephenson closed up, which was about 12 o'clock.
The killing was done between 11:30 and 12 o'clock.
Shaver was shot on the night of April 19 this year.
He had been to the Santa Fe depot, waiting for a belated
train and was returning to his home when he was
accosted by a man whom he took to be a footpad. The
night was rainy and Shaver carried an umbrella. With
this he struck at the supposed robber who in turn shot
Shaver. The wound was in the abdomen and Shaver
was able to get to a house and secure help. He was
taken to Winfield to a hospital two days later and died
there. He was conscious after the shooting and it is
believed by many at Newkirk that he knew who his
assailant was but he would never tell.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 September 1905
SAD ACCIDENT AT BRAMAN. Woman is Dead and
Her Husband is Fatally Injured. EXPLOSION OF
COAL OIL. Poured Oil into the Stove to Kindle the
Fire and Live Coal Started Flames Causing the Terrible
explosion. -- Braman, Sept. 12--Explosion of a two
gallon can of coal oil fatally injured Chet Outlaw, a
barber, and caused the death of his wife, at an early
hour this morning.
Mrs. Outlaw arose about 6 o'clock and started the
fire to cook breakfast. Not knowing that there were live
coals in the stove, she picked up the two gallon can of
oil and poured some of it onto the kindling.
Instantly flames shot up from the stove and
explosion resulted, which threw burning oil over the
whole of the woman's body and over the kitchen.
Enveloped in flames and screaming with pain, Mrs.
Outlaw ran from the kitchen into the bedroom, where
her husband lay. He had been awakened by the
explosion, but before he could arise, his wife had
thrown herself upon the bed, in an effort to smother the
flames.
Outlaw attempted to assist by wrapping a quilt
around his wife's body, but the flesh was already
burning and the flames destroyed the quilt. The
bedding caught fire by this time and Outlaw himself
was in flames.
Both then ran again into the kitchen where Mrs.
Outlaw stumbled and fell. Her husband was unable to
assist her, as the kitchen was on fire and his own hair
and clothing in flames. He managed to make his own
way outside where he fell down unconscious from pain.
While this terrible scene was being enacted a
brother of the unfortunate woman, who with a friend
slept in one of the front rooms to the house, had come
to the rescue. They were up at the sound of the
explosion, but by the time they reached the kitchen
Mrs. Outlaw was already beyond help.
They threw water on the flames in the kitchen; and
when the smoke had cleared away sufficiently so that
her blackened body could be see, attempted to pick her
up. The flesh fell from her body at their touch,
although she was still fully conscious.
A physician was immediately summoned, and he
did everything in his power to relieve the awful
suffering of the woman. An examination of her
husband's injuries developed that he, too, was so badly
burned that it is believed he will not recover. He
lingered until 1 o'clock this afternoon when he died.
Mrs. Outlaw was literally grilled from head to foot
and she lived only a few hours. In spite of her suffering
she was able to give directions about notifying her
family and friends. Outlaw's hands suffered more than
any other portion of his body, the flesh falling from the
palms.
The town is greatly stirred up over the accident and
much sympathy is expressed for the family, as Mr. and
Mrs. Outlaw were very popular among the younger
married people of Braman. They came here six months
ago from some other point in Oklahoma and Mr.
Outlaw opened a barber shop. Their home was in
Colfax, Ill., where relatives reside, and they left Illinois
four years ago. Mrs. Outlaw was twenty-five years of
age and her husband one year younger. They occupied
a pretty four-room cottage, which was badly damaged
by the fire. [The Democrat of 14 September 1905
published nearly this identical story.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 September 1905
from Longwood items. -- Mr. Fish died Saturday
morning. funeral services at the Catholic church
Sunday at 2 p.m.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 September 1905
A. L. Hawkins' father, a report of whose serious
illness was given in this paper day before yesterday,
died at his home in Corbin, a small town near Arkansas
City, this morning. No particulars of the death or of the
time set for the funeral have been received.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 September 1905
Mrs. O. C. Proctor died at Bliss last Saturday
after a long illness, aged 48 years. The funeral was
held from the Hayden undertaking rooms at 2 o'clock
p.m. yesterday, services conducted by Rev. D. L.
Edwards, pastor of the Presbyterian church. Mrs.
Proctor, formerly Mrs. Maple, was among the first
settlers of this city, and was well known and highly
esteemed by the entire community. She leaves three
children to mourn the loss of a mother.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 September 1905
Joseph Boles died at the family home on south
Second street last Saturday, Sept. 23, 1905, after a brief
illness, aged 49 years. The funeral was held from the
home at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept 24, the services being
conducted by Rev. D. Luther Edwards, and burial was
made in the I. O. O. F. cemetery. He leaves a wife and
five children, the wife being a sister of Chas. F.
Muchow, who died a few weeks ago.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 September 1905
Died.--Last Saturday night, of spinal trouble,
Josephus Boles, aged 49 years. Funeral services were
127
held Sunday with burial in I.O.O.F. cemetery.
Deceased was sick for only three days and was
unconscious from the time he was first stricken. He
had been around on the streets and was apparently
enjoying good health. The family have the sympathy of
all their acquaintances in their hour of sorrow.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 September 1905
Died.-- A. T. Hawkins father of A. L. Hawkins of
this city, died at his home in Corbin, Kansas, Thursday,
September 24, 1905, at the age of 68 years and 8
months and was buried Friday, September 22 at 2 p.m.
at the church cemetery, the funeral being preached by
the Rev. Lyons, M. E. pastor. Deceased leaves an aged
wife and six children to mourn his departure. All were
present at the funeral except the youngest daughter who
was sick. Deceased had been confined to his bed since
July 1, and was conscious until the last and admitted his
willingness to die. He was a member of the M. E.
Church South, and a devoted Christian all his life.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 September 1905
Death of Mrs. Bayless. Died -- Maud L., wife of Dan
E. Bayless, at the home of her parents Mr. and Mrs. J.
S. Walton, September 4, 1905, aged twenty-six years,
three months and eleven days.
Mrs. Bayless took sick about three weeks ago
while at the home of her parents. She gradually grew
worse and the aid of skilled doctors could do nothing to
relieve her suffering, and death finally claimed her.
Mrs. Bayless was known by nearly all Supulpans,
having lived here with her husband for several years.
She was kind, good natured and was liked by all. The
announcement of her death greatly shocked the entire
community and sympathizing friends did all in their
power for the bereaved husband, little children and
relatives.
Mrs. Bayless was born in Cedar county, Mo., in
1879. She was married to D. E. Bayless in Ponca City.
Okla., and four children blessed her home, three of
whom are living.
The funeral was conducted from the South
Methodist church, Rev. J. E. Vick preaching the
sermon. An exceeding long procession followed the
remains to their last resting place.
To the husband, little children and relatives the
Light extends the sympathy of all Sapulpa people. -Supulpa Light
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 September 1905
MURDER AT KAW CITY. Alpha Mann shot and
Killed by Dr. Irwin. RESULT OF A QUARREL.
Growing out of a Recent Mobbing of a Citizen of that
Place--Murderer Has Not Been Apprehended -- Kaw
City, Okla., Sept. 29. -- Alpha Mann, familiarly known
as "Doc" Mann, a well-known citizen of this city, was
shot and instantly killed by Dr. J. D. Irwin, also of this
city shortly after nine o'clock last night. The shooting
128
which took place on the main street, was witnessed by
several persons and followed an eventful day in the
history of this place.
Several weeks ago a little girl went into the store of
Joe Busset and, it is claimed, while there was criminally
assaulted. Busset was arrested and at the conclusion of
his preliminary hearing was bound over to await the
action of the grand jury. He returned to this city last
Monday, and his appearance here following closely
upon his trial, caused many murmurings of indignation
and a revival of the ill-feeling towards him. So enraged
did the citizens become that at four o'clock yesterday a
crowd of seventy-five of the most prominent citizens of
Kaw City surrounded Basset, and after pelting him with
rotten eggs and horsewhipping him until he bled
profusely and cried for mercy, ordered him to leave
town and never return again. He caught the first train
out afternoon.
The affair caused much excitement and while Dr.
Irwin and Alpha Mann were discussing the matter, the
latter remembered that "The people had treated Bassett
right, and that he would fight for the virtue of any girl".
Irwin is reported to have said that if he had been there
at the time, he would have whipped some of those who
took part in the egging. "A man who would talk that
way couldn't whip anything," said Mann, "and, if you
think you can, step out into the street," directing his
remarks to Irwin. Mann walked to the street, and Irwin
went to the rear of the drug store. When he returned he
litted (sic) a revolver and shot Mann, the bullet entering
the latter's side. He fell mortally wounded, and died in
a few moments. Irwin escaped, and so far has eluded
the officers, though a large posse is searching for him.
Dr. Winney, coroner, is here and will conduct an
inquest today. There were several witnesses to the
murder. Great excitement prevails here and because of
this a roping contest for several beg prizes which was
billed to take place here today was postponed.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 September 1905
THE KAW CITY KILLING. Dr. Irwin, the Murderer,
Supposed to Be in Hiding in the Woods. --Kaw City,
Okla., Sept. 28 -- Dr. J. B. Irwin who made his escape
last evening after shooting down in cold blood Alpha
Mann, a merchant of this city, following a quarrel
which started over the action of a mob, is still at large.
Irwin is a large and portly man and is undoubtedly
hampered in fleeing by a crippled leg. It is believed
that he is hiding in the woods near Kaw City. A posse
of citizens and officers have been scouring the country
since the shooting last night and although several times
it was thought they have been on his trail, each time he
has managed to elude them. The search will be kept up
and there is every reason to believe that he will be
captured before a great while.
A jury was impaneled by Coroner Widney, who
resides at this place, and an inquest was held over the
body of Alpha Mann. The verdict was that he "came to
his death from two short fired feloniously by Dr. J. B.
Irwin." The jury consisted of C. L. Shidler, H. E. Guy,
L. F. Pimmons, T. E. smith, Chas. Spencer and Hanson.
The funeral of Alpha Mann will be held tomorrow
at this place. He was about 35 years of age and
conducted a restaurant here. He has no family.
Dr. Irwin's family consists of a wife and little boy.
They are almost prostrated with grief over the tragedy,
and although the citizens of this city are loud in
condemnation of the act of Dr. Irwin in shooting down
in cold blood Alpha Mann, much sympathy is extended
the innocent wife and child.
J. L. Bassert, the man who was taken to the
outskirts of town last night and horsewhipped and
egged by an angry crowd of men and women has not
been heard from since he was driven for them city. It
was over the action of the mob that the quarrel started
which resulted in the murder of Alpha Mann. Dr.
Irwin, the fugitive, condemned the action of the mob.
[A related article appearing in the 12 July 1906 edition
of the Ponca City Democrat follows: Erwin Accepts
Sentence. -- Dr. J. B. Irwin of this city (Kaw City), who
was convicted of manslaughter in the first degree for
the killing of Doc Mann some time ago, the first of the
week accepted his sentence of ten years which was
given him by Judge Hainer, and accordingly on
Tuesday morning, he was taken by sheriff Wooden to
Lansing Kansas.
It was understood generally that this case would be
appealed to the supreme court in an effort to procure a
new trial, but on account of the lack of funds, Dr. Irwin
said he was unable to enforce the appeal. He stoutly
contends that the shooting was in self defense and
believes if he were able to furnish the funds for another
fight he would come clear. He was here in company
with the sheriff and deputy, Monday to straighten up a
few affairs preparatory to taking his sentence. -- Kaw
City Star.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 September 1905
The 14-months old child of A. A. Pruett, died at
the family home on south First street yesterday morning
and the funeral was held from the home this morning.
[Cemetery Inscriptions of Kay County, Oklahoma lists
both a Dora and Ora Pruett (twins) as having died in
1905.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 October 1905
The body of Mrs. C. Healey, who died at Dexter,
Kansas, yesterday, was received here today and was
buried from the Hayden undertaking rooms at 3 o'clock
this morning. Mrs. Healey was a daughter of J. C.
Allen, a former well known citizen of this place and
whose wife is buried in the Ponca City cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 October 1905
W. N. Dick Dead. -- W. N. Dick, of whose critical
illness mention was made in Saturday's paper, died at
about four o'clock this afternoon at the home on north
Fourth street. No arrangements have yet been made for
the funeral. [A tribute to Mr. Dick is printed in the 17
October 1905 edition of the Courier, but it contains no
information of genealogical value.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 October 1905
At Rest. -- Died, at Colorado Springs, Colorado,
Sunday, October 15, 1905, Mrs. Alice Whitmore, the
beloved wife of W. W. Whitmore, one of the prominent
farmers of Kildare township. The funeral took place
Tuesday at 2 o'clock p.m., from the family residence
one mile west of Kildare. The interment was at
Newkirk cemetery. The sad ceremony was largely
attended by numerous friends of this popular lady. She
came to this county in the early days with her husband
and children from Des Moines, Iowa, and had endeared
herself to a large circle of friends by her fine character.
She was an earnest, Christian lady, and was one of the
most self-sacrificing, helpful women in Kay county.
She ever possessed a sunshiny, cheerful disposition,
and was a lady of the highest culture and refinement.
She will be sadly missed by her worthy husband and
sturdy sons. Kildare township will long remember this
splendid lady and the influence of the perfect life will
not soon be effaced.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 October 1905
Card of Thanks. We wish to express our sincere thanks
to our many friends who so kindly assisted us during
the death and burial of our little one and special thanks
for flowers furnished. Mrs. Moss and Children.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 19 October 1905
Death of W. N. Dick. -- Died--Monday afternoon at 4
o'clock W. N. Dick of this city.
Mr. Dick had been suffering for a few weeks from
a spell of typhoid fever and was just about recovered
when a relapse came from which he never recovered.
Friday afternoon he grew worse and Saturday he was
given up by the physician who pronounced the
complications incurable.
The funeral sermon was preached at the
Presbyterian church Tuesday afternoon, conducted by
the pastor, Rev. D. Luther Edwards, assisted by Rev.
Shook of Tonkawa. The church was crowded with
friends of the family who went to pay their last tribute
to one of our most respected citizens. The body was
shipped to Taylorsville, Ill., Wednesday morning for
burial followed by the deceased man's wife, his two
sons and families and two brothers.
W. N. Dick had been a resident of Ponca City for
the past eight years and was a partner to Judge Waltz in
the real estate business. He was a good citizen and
129
neighbor, a kind and indulgent husband and father and
through his honest dealings had won the esteem and
friendship of all who knew him.
The Democrat joins the many friends of the
bereaved wife and children in extending to them our
most sincere sympathy in their trying hour of distress.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 October 1905
Card of Thanks. -- We take this method of returning
heartfelt thanks to the many friends and neighbors who
so thoughtfully assisted during the illness and
sympathized with us in the death of our beloved
husband and father. Mrs. W. M. Dick, Roy N. Dick
and family, E. J. Dick and family.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 20 October 1905
H. C. R. Brodball received a telegram Saturday
announcing the death of his brother, E. Broadball at
Lindsay, Neb. Mr. Broadball left on the evening train
to be present at the funeral and to attend to his brother's
business affairs. The funeral was held at Wahoo, Neb.,
Wednesday of this week.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 October 1905
Holland Fearnow died at his home, 7 miles
northwest of this city, at 5 o'clock p.m. yesterday.
Funeral services will be held at Excelsior church at 10
o'clock a.m. tomorrow and burial will be made in the
Ponca City cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 October 1905
Obituary. Mrs. Nora Fearnow-Chamberlain was
born Aug. 14, 1870 in Green county, Ill., and died at
LaJunta, Col., Sunday, Oct. 15, 1905, at the age of 35
years, 2 months.
She came to Oklahoma with her parents in 1893,
soon after the opening. She was married to Wm.
Chamberlain, Feb 16, 1898. There was born to them
two children. The elder, a son, has preceded her to the
Land of Light; a daughter, little Toletta, two years old is
left with the father, bereft of a loving wife and mother.
Mrs. Chamberlain had been in failing health for
several years, about two years ago, in hopes that her
health would be benefited, the family moved to
Arizona, and a few weeks previous to her death she had
bone on a visit to Colorado. Her demise was calm and
peaceful, in full realization and resignation that the end
was at hand. She left a farewell message to her absent
husband and other relatives.
She made a profession of her faith in Jesus Christ
when about 16 years old. She united with the
Presbyterian church of Ponca City by letter shortly after
coming to the Territory, and still retained her
membership here at the time of her death. She lived a
beautiful life, adorning her Christian profession.
She leaves a husband, one daughter, her mother,
one sister, and four brothers. Her father, two brothers
and five sisters have gone on before.
130
She sleeps--yes, "He giveth to his beloved sleep."
There shall be an awaking to be with her Lord and the
loved ones ever more. "Precious in the sight of the
Lord is the death of his saints." Precious like rubies
and diamonds. God's saints are the jewels of earth.
These He gathers and sorts for His treasure house
above. There they shall shine as the stars forever.
God overshadow with His love the motherless
daughter, sustain and comfort the stricken husband and
sorrowful mother, sister and brothers.
Card of thanks. We desire to return our thanks to the
friends who so kindly assisted us in the burial of our
wife, daughter and sister. Wm. Chamberlain, Mrs. J. R.
Fearnow, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Doepel
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 October 1905
Gone Home. -- Alberta Moss was born May 3, 1904
and departed this life on October 14, 1905.
In the seventeen months of her little life the home
was made bright by her presence and though afflicted
had a bright sunny disposition., But God saw fit to call
her from her earthly home and we see her face no more
on earth, but we can think of her in that Beautiful Home
where death never comes and pain and sorrow are
unknown. While it is very hard for us to give up our
loved ones, yet we believe that God in his infinite
wisdom, "Doeth all things well."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 October 1905
False Report. -- The report sent out under a Newkirk
date line, and published in this paper, to the effect that
Yellow Bull, Turner Elk, Charles Pappan and Leslie
Redleaf had been arrested for suspected complicity in
the murder of Vivian Straightly in the Ponca country
in 1901, was untrue. No such arrests have been made.
Fake reports are a thing which the average (the rest of
this article is unreadable.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 October 1905
Arrested for Murder. -- It seems that while the
report that Yellow Bull, Turner Elk, Chas. Pappan and
Leslie Redleaf had been arrested for the murder of
Vivian Straightley was premature, it was not without
foundation. These parties were arrested on a warrant
sworn out yesterday and taken to Newkirk, where their
preliminary examination will take place next Tuesday
before Probate Judge Howsley.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 October 1905
Mrs. J. R. Summers, the sister of Judge R. L.
Howsley, died Thursday night at the farm of her father,
R. H. Howsley, east of Newkirk. Mrs. Summers has
been sick for some time, so that her death was not
wholly unexpected. The funeral will be held Saturday
morning at 10 o'clock at the residence.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 October 1905
TOO MUCH FIRE WATER. Ned Little Warrior,
Ponca Indian Dies of Exposure. FOUND DEAD
SUNDAY. Laid Out in the Rain All Saturday Night
and the Body Was Not Found Until the Next Afternoon.
-- The dead body of Ned Little Warrior, a Ponca
Indian, was found on the Santa Fe right of way,
between the depot and Hutchins elevator at three
O'clock yesterday afternoon and taken to the Hayden
undertaking rooms. It appears that the man was very
drunk Saturday afternoon and at about seven o'clock in
the evening laid down on the platform in front of the
door to the ladies waiting room in the depot. He was
aroused from his drunken stupor by one of the
employees about the depot, staggered off the platform
and no more was seen of him or thought about him until
his dead body was found the next afternoon.
Coroner Widney was notified and came over from
Kaw City this morning to investigate the case, but after
learning all the facts and circumstances concluded that
an inquest was unnecessary, as it was plainly evident
that the man had come to his death by heart failure,
caused by the intoxication and exposure.
Undertaker Gill prepared the body for burial and it
was taken this afternoon by members of the Ponca tribe
to their burial place in the reservation, to be interred in
accordance with the rites and ceremonies of the tribe.
Little Warrior was a fine looking Indian and
apparently in the best of health, but like all warriors,
little or big, red or white, who enter the lists against
King Alcohol, he met inglorious defeat. He was about
35 years of age and leaves a wife but no children or
other relatives to bear his name among his people.
Aside from his one failing he was a good Indian, well
educated, honest and industrious, and his untimely
death is mourned not only by his tribe but by all who
knew him.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 2 November 1905
Ned Little Warrior, an educated Ponca Indian
was found dead Sunday afternoon about two o'clock,
just west of the Hutchins elevator, by Chief of Police
Smith. As we learned, the Indian had been up to
Arkansas City and was returning home when he got off
the train here Saturday night and the last seen of him he
was lying on the depot platform. It is supposed he was
drunk and that he chilled to death during the night. On
his person was found about ten dollars in money.
Several persons saw him lying on the ground Sunday
morning but just supposed it was a case of plain drunk.
Little Warrior was a bright and intelligent Indian and
had many friends in the city. He leaves a young wife.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 November 1905
Death of Mrs. Lockwood. -- Mrs. Jessie M.
Lockwood, wife of L. A. Lockwood died at the family
home on south Fourth street in this city at 4 o'clock this
morning, of paralysis, aged 39 years, 1 month and 26
days. The body will be taken to Newkirk on the 10:55
train tomorrow, where the funeral services will be held
and interment made. The Eagle lodge of this city will
escort the body to the train. Mrs. Lockwood leaves a
husband and three daughters, who have the sympathy of
the entire community in their great bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 November 1905
Obituary. -- Jessie M. Boucher was born in Greeley,
Kansas, September 8, 1866, was married to L. A.
Lockwood at Arkansas City, Kansas, June 9, 1885;
came with her family to Oklahoma at the opening of the
Strip, and settled at Newkirk, where they resided until
they moved to Ponca City two years ago, died in Ponca
City, Nov. 4, 1905, funeral services were held in the
Methodist church at Newkirk Nov. 6, and interment
was made in the Newkirk cemetery.
Deceased had many friends and relatives to mourn
her untimely death. The husband and three daughters-Mabel, Olive and Vivian--reside in Ponca City, her
mother and two sisters in Newkirk, one brother in
Tonkawa and another in Blackwell, and a sister in
Telluride, Colorado. Her father died in Kansas in 1876.
Mrs. Lockwood was one of those who make the
world better by their beneficent lives. Devoted to her
family and friends, always ready to lend a helping hand
where sickness or need called, it may be truly said of
her that she did good and not evil all the days of her
life. Her untimely death at the age of only 39 years is a
terrible blow to her family, who have the heartfelt
sympathy of all in their irreparable loss.
from the Ponca City Democrat 9 November 1905
Obituary.-- Jessie M. Boucher (Lockwood) was born
at Greeley, Kansas, September 8, 1866, and died at
Ponca City, Oklahoma, November 4, 1905, aged 39
years, 1 month and 26 days.
Jessie Boucher, when but a young girl moved with
her parents, John and Sarah Boucher, to Sumner
county, Kansas, and later resided in Arkansas City. On
June 9, 1886, she was married to Lew A. Lockwood at
Arkansas city, and has lived with her husband in Ponca
City for about two years. Three daughters came to
bless this union--Mabel, Olive and Vivian, and they
with her husband and mother survive her.
She was known by her many friends for her
Christian and charitable acts; she was always first to the
id of those in distress, and many a sick room has been
made cheerful by her gentle and soothing presence.
She was laid to rest in the Newkirk cemetery on
Monday, Nov. 6, the funeral was preached at the M. E.
church at Newkirk by the Rev. Adams of the Episcopal
church.
Thus sleeps the remains of one beloved by all, and
whose loss is felt with sad regret by the community.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 November 1905
131
Mrs. Charles Day Dead. -- The many friends and
acquaintances of Mrs. Charles Day were shocked to
learn of her sudden death, which occurred last Tuesday
evening about 10 o'clock. She was taken seriously sick
on Sunday Oct. 29th, caused by gall stones and
neuralgia of the stomach. Her son Guy Day of Parsons,
Kansas., was notified later in the week of her serious
condition and he and his wife came, his wife remaining
while he left for Parsons on Monday evening, thinking
his mother much better. On Tuesday morning an old
time friend, Mrs. John Keck of Winfield, Kansas,
arrived and Mrs. Day seemed much improved during
the day and conversed freely with her friend and others
who called. About ten o'clock in the evening her nurse
asked her how she was feeling and she replied much
better, and shortly expired without a struggle, heart
failure being the cause of her death.
Short services will be held at the home in this city
9 (Blackwell) Friday morning at 8:30 by Rev. W. E.
Woodward of the Methodist church, and the remains
will be taken to Winfield, Kansas, for interment beside
her son under the escort of the Eastern Star Chapter
Chicasha (sic) Lodge No. 14, and the ladies of the
Kensington Club of this city (Blackwell), both societies
of which she was a member.
Arrangements have been made for a special chair
car to leave here on the 9:30 Santa Fe train, going to
Winfield via Ponca City. Returning will leave Winfield
about 6 o'clock, the train from Ponca City to Blackwell
will be held in the evening for the arrival of the chair
car, and will arrive here about 9 o'clock. The services
in Winfield will be held in the M. E. church at 2:30
p.m.
Any of the friends who wish to attend
transportation will be furnished --Blackwell TimesRecord.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 November 1905
Robert Simpson, father of Mrs. W. M. Briley,
died at the home of his daughter on east Grand avenue
at four o'clock this morning from the effects of a fall
received about a year ago, aged 79 years, 1 month and
29 days. He was a carpenter by trade. The funeral will
be held at the home at 10 a.m. tomorrow and burial will
be made in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat 30 November 1905
Died--Monday morning, at four o'clock, at his
home on east Grand avenue, Robert Simpson, father of
Mrs. Wm. Briley. The cause of death was due to an
injury from a fall from a scaffold about a year ago. The
funeral was held from the house Tuesday morning at 10
o'clock, with interment in I. O. O. F. cemetery. The
Fraternal Order of Eagles of which Mr. Briley is a
member, turned out in a body to pay their respects. The
bereaved ones have the sincere sympathy of all their
friends and acquaintances in their hour of trouble.
132
from the Ponca City Democrat, 30 November 1905
[This page on which this obituary appears was very
faded, badly photographed, or both, making it almost
impossible to read. Some wording that appears is
implied from the context of the rest of the sentence.]
WINFIELD SCOTT ERWIN. Death of Prominent
Member of Prominent Family of This Section. -Winfield Scott Erwin, land owner of the Erwin [New
York], who had a stroke of Apoplexy in his apartments
in the St. James Hotel in Corning on Sunday night, died
at the hotel at 7:45 last night. He died without
regaining consciousness.
Mr. Erwin's health had been impaired for several
years, and he had spent much time at the Hornellsville
Sanitarium. In the interval he resisted at the St. James
hotel in this city.
Mr. Erwin was 57 years old. He had a fine farm of
432 acres in the town of Erwin, about one-half mile
south of Painted Post. He inherited the farm from his
father, Arthur H. Erwin, who was born in Erwin,
Steuben county, N. Y., in 1803, and who died in 1863.
The farm has never been out of the Erwin family since
it first purchase in 1789. Winfield Scott Erwin was a
grandson of Capt. Samuel Erwin, born in Erwin, Bucks
county, Pa., in 1770, and who came to what is now
Painted Post, N. Y., with his father, Col. Arthur Erwin
who had come to America before the revolutionary war,
from the near the city of Antrim, in Ireland.
Winfield Scott Erwin was never married. He is
survived by one brother, Arthur Erwin, of Ponca City,
Oklahoma; and by two sisters, Mrs. Harriet Lutman
and Miss Virginia Erwin, both of the town of Erwin, N.
Y. Another sister, Mrs. J. Dudley, of Bath, N. Y. died
last Friday and was buried yesterday.
As W. S. Erwin was unmarried, the ancestral farm
he owned will probably go to his brother Arthur.
Scott Erwin was a very genial and intelligent man,
and he had a host of friends who will regret his
unexpected death.
Funeral arrangements will be deterred until the
arrival of Arthur Erwin, who is expected here from
Oklahoma on Thursday night.--Corning (N. Y.) Daily
Journal. [from the 27 December 1906 issue of the
Democrat the following article appears: A. H. Erwin
returned home from Painted Post, N. Y., Saturday,
where he has been the past few months settling up the
old family estate. He will remain here during the rest of
the winter, and in early spring go back and finish the
work. The judge says he is glad to get back to
Oklahoma. When he left New York it was 5 degrees
below zero. Judge Waltz has been acting police judge
during Judge Erwin's absence.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, December 1905
SUICIDE AT PERRY. Barkeeper Shoots Himself
Through the Head With a Revolver.
Perry, Okla., Nov. 30.--Thos. Masek, aged 25, a
son of John Masek, a Bohemian, living six miles east of
Perry, committed suicide shortly after 7 o'clock this
morning in the rear of the Stock Exchange saloon
where he had been sleeping. It was a clear case of
suicide but an inquest will be held over the body
tomorrow.
Masek was in good health, was popular and the
only motive that can be assigned for his deed was the
fact that he was bout $13 short in his account with him
employers. He was assistant bar tender in the Stock
Exchange saloon and the slips in the cash register
showed a shortage of that amount this morning.
Masek was out with friends during the night and
was seen for the last time before the shooting at 5
o'clock in a short order restaurant with a friend Frank
Saleck. He then went to the saloon, secured his
employer's revolver which is a 38-calibre on a 44
frame, and laid down on a cot in the back room. At
7:15 a.m. a shot was heard and on investigation, it was
found that he had placed the barrel of the revolver in his
mouth and pulled the trigger. The whole top of his
head was blown off and the bullet passed through a
barrel in the room lodging in the wall.
Masek had been employed in the Stock Exchange
saloon for several months and his employer had never
had occasion to doubt his honesty.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 December 1905
A brother of M. M. Jacobs, the man who died at
the family home on south Third street last Sunday,
arrived from Denver last night, and the body was taken
today to Stafford Kansas, for burial. The family of the
deceased will be taken to Denver, where a home will be
provided for them by relatives.
It is expected that the friends of Jerry Willison,
who died at the American house yesterday, will arrive
here tomorrow night, provided they are fortunate
enough to make desired railroad connections. Some
difficulty was experienced in reaching them by
telegraph, causing delay, and they were unable to start
on the journey from Ohio until some time last night.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 December 1905
Jerry Willison was born June 13, 1863, in
Hartford township, Licking county, Ohio, died in Ponca
City, Oklahoma, December 5, 1905. He resided at the
place of his birth until 1885 when he went to Scott
county, Kansas, where he remained until the opening of
the Strip to settlement; when he came to Oklahoma to
secure a home for himself. In 1894 he was married to
Miss Kate Wealon and to them were born three
children--Leo, Dale and Mattie. The wife died June 22,
1904, and little Mattie December 12, 1904, leaving the
two little boys as the sole surviving members of this
once happy family. Deceased also leaves to mourn the
loss of a good son and brother, his father, mother, two
brothers and two sisters, all residing at or near the old
home in Ohio. The mother and two brothers were
present at the funeral, which was held at the Enterprise
church east of this city on Thursday, Dec. 7, and was
largely attended by the friends and neighbors. The two
little boys well be tenderly cared for by their
grandparents at their home in Ohio.
Jerry Willison was one of Kay county's most
substantial and best respected citizens, having resided
on the fine farm east of this city, which he secured at
the opening until the death of his wife a year ago last
June, since which time he has resided in this city. Both
the deceased and his wife were very highly esteemed in
the community in which they resided, as was shown by
the large number of old friends and neighbors who
attended the funeral. The relatives here and in Ohio
have the sympathy of all in the great sorrow that has
come upon them.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 December 1905
Sudden death. -- John H. Cole, aged 26 years, a
stranger her, died very suddenly on the platform of the
Santa Fe depot about 11 o'clock last Saturday night. No
particulars are obtainable, as nobody here knows
anything about the man, but it is learned from some
source that he had been working near Bliss. The body
is greatly emaciated as of a person in the last stages of
consumption, and that disease is probably the cause of
his death. The indications are that the young man had
kept going as long as his strength would permit and
then laid down and died without making his condition
known. The body was taken to the Hayden undertaking
rooms, where it is being held until relatives can be
heard from. A letter from a brother of the young man
written by a brother residing at Howard, Stueben
county, New York, was found on the body and a
telegram was sent there at once, but no reply has yet
been received.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 December 1905
Died -- James Wilhelm, Sunday December 17th at
the residence of Cager Creel in Tonkawa. James
Wilhelm came to Missouri from Kentucky in 1883, and
from there he moved to Wellington, Kas. At the time
of the opening he came to Kay county and took a claim
southeast of Tonkawa which, with an additional 80
acres bought since, he owned at the time of his death.
Mr. Welhelm was unmarried. He was one of nature’s
noble men. Although unlearned, he had a heart that
was full of sympathy and love for his fellowmen.
Everybody who knew "Jim" Wilhelm was his friend,
and the sorrow with which the news of his death was
received was genuine.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 December 1905
Jeff Houston Dead. -- The Wichita Eagle of today has
the following account of death of J. J. Houston of this
city: J. J. Houston came up from Oklahoma to St.
Francis hospital three weeks ago and was found to be
suffering from Bright's disease. His brother, J. D.
Houston, intended taking him to Hot Springs to see if
any relief could be obtained from the waters there, but
133
Dr. Purdue told him it was too late and advised against
the move from the hospital here. He continually grew
worse and yesterday died at 2 o'clock p.m. He will be
buried Friday afternoon in Maple Grove cemetery in
this city. Funeral services at the residence of his
brother, J. D. Houston, 1213 Pierce avenue, at 2 o'clock
Friday afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 December 1905
Mrs. H. Roberts died Wednesday morning at the
home of her daughter Mrs. Chenoweth, in Cross. Mrs.
Roberts was 83 years old and leaves a son, Charles
DeRoberts, and two daughters, Mrs. Chenoweth and
Mrs. Harvey, and several grandchildren to mourn her
demise. Her son, C. DeRoberts, accompanied the
remains on the 7:42 this morning to her old home, Red
Oak, Iowa, where services will be held and her last
resting place made by the side of her husband who had
preceded her to the grave. The immediate relatives and
a few friends gathered at the home early this morning to
take the last look at the face and form so much beloved
in life.
from the Ponca City Courier, 6 January 1906
REQUIRED A SPECIAL TRAIN. Dr. Geo. H.
Hermain's Case was Serious. TAKEN TO WICHITA.
Operation Performed in Hospital and Patient Reported
to Be doing Better Than Expected. -- Yesterday it was
found that the injuries received by Dr. Geo. H. Germain
in the accident at Dexter, Kansas, on Thursday
afternoon last were more serious than first appearances
seemed to indicate, and that a second operation would
be necessary. Accordingly it was decided to take him
to the Wichita hospital for treatment. The regular trains
not being available for that purpose, negotiations for a
special train were entered into. At five o'clock a special
train consisting of an engine and tender and two
passenger coaches, arrived. The patient, accompanied
by his family, Dr. Walter Schenck, Dr. F. B. Germain,
Dr. Fred Sparks, S. J. Soldani, a personal friend of Dr.
George, and some others, started for Wichita. The
special arrived at Wichita at 7:00 p.m. and at 7:30 p.m.
the operation was performed in the hospital at that
place. The amputation was made about midway
between the ankle and the knee, and at last reports the
patient was doing nicely with all the chances in favor of
his speedy recovery.
We understand that this prompt and energetic
action was taken largely on the advice of Dr. Walter
Schenck, one of the best physicians in Oklahoma, and
is another evidence of the good judgment and
professional skill. [from the Ponca City Courier, 3
January 1906, Death of Dr. Germain. -- Dr. George H.
Germain died in the hospital at Wichita, Kansas, at 2
o'clock this morning. The body, accompanied by
physicians, relatives and friends who had been in
attendance upon the sufferer at the hospital, arrived
here at 12 o'clock noon today and was taken to the
134
family residence on south Fourth street. The funeral
will be from the Methodist church at 2 o'clock p. m.
tomorrow and interment will be made in the Ponca City
cemetery.]
from the Ponca City Courier, 2 January 1906
Samuel Smith, brother of Dempsey Smith of this
city, died at his home near Fairfax in the Osage county,
on Monday and the funeral was held at Fairfax
yesterday.
Deceased was 37 years of age and
unmarried. He had only been sick two or three days,
the cause of death being pneumonia. He was a
prominent cattle man of this part of the country, and
had been a resident there for many years.
from the Ponca City Courier, 4 January 1906
The funeral of Dr. George H. Germain at the
Methodist church this afternoon was one of the most
largely attended ever held in the city, our people turning
out almost in mass to show their respect for the
deceased and his estimable family. We hope to have an
appropriate obituary for publication in tomorrow's
paper.
from the Ponca City Courier, 6 January 1906
Dr. George H. Germain - A Memory [Due to the
extraordinary length of this article, it has been
excerpted] A wave of sorrow extends over our city
and its broad environments.
Five days ago, Dr. George Germain was with us,
a potential factor in the noblest paths of human effort,
doing deeds of kindness, performing tasks of divinely
human helpfulness to this fellows. Now he lies dead.
Last Thursday, Dr. Germain started by rail to visit his
parents in Cherokee, Kansas, taking with him his eldest
daughter, Laura; reaching Dexter, Kansas, the accident
occurred which cost him his life, and sowed so much of
sorrow in our midst. Unaccountable he was in some
way thrown from the car steps, while helping off his
little daughter, crushing his foot beyond repair and
culminating in his death. Dying, he thought little of
yesterday, the trend of his vision was on the future.
With his gaze thus directed, divinely helpful ideals
arose tempering the sundering of earth's dear loyal ties.
Friends came from afar, at love's own instance, to give
solace and help win him back to health again. Among
his relatives were his father and mother, Mr. and Mrs.
H. Germain, his brother, F. B. Germain and wife, his
sisters and their husbands. Dr. Gardner and Dr. Fred
Sparks, and the home folks whom we all know and love
to honor. And nearest and dearest of all is the wife,
with the sweet children
Dr. Germain was one of the first physicians who
settled in Ponca City at the opening of the Strip. He
had just graduated with honor at rush Medical College,
Chicago. He soon built up a lucrative practice, his
patrons representing some of the best families of this
community.
In May 1896, he married Miss Orah Wyoming
Dunham of this city. In that newly created home (she)
was the sunshine of his life.
Six physicians bore the casket to the church
thronged with mourners, where the last rites were
offered, with songs and words of consolation and
admonition. The services were conducted by Rev.
McGaha, assisted by ministers Love and Edwards. The
idly curious were absent; it was a congregation of
mourners, a house of tears, an unsought expression of a
people's sorrow.
Slowly the cortege left the church, winding its way
over undulating roads to the grassy spot where we so
often have gone before on the sad errand. Around his
tome the shows of heaven covered the swaying grasses,
as it to hide from narrowing eyes all suggestions save
those of unstained purity. There we laid the broken
body, while words of consolation mingled with the
voice of comforters' grief. There we left his hallowed
dust to the nursing care of our common mother earth.
W. Schenck.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 January 1906
Frank Lahey, son of Mrs. Mary Lahey living
about five miles northwest of this city, died Saturday
night in the Washington University hospital at St. Louis
of tumor of the brain. The body will arrive over the
Santa Fe tonight and the funeral services will be held
from the Catholic church tomorrow at 8 o'clock. The
young man is well known here, having made this his
home for a number of years. At the time of his death he
was in the employ of the Wells Fargo express
company's office at St. Louis. He leaves a mother, four
brothers and two sisters to mourn his loss.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 January 1906
The infant child of Logan Winebrener and wife,
living near Autwine, died Sunday and the funeral
services were held yesterday from the Round Grove
church.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 January 1906
Charles French, a young man who came here
from Iowa last fall, died at the home of his sister, Mrs.
Martin, in this city today of consumption. The funeral
will be held at the home on south Sixth street at 9
o'clock a. m. tomorrow, the remains to be taken to the
old home in Iowa for burial.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 January 1906
The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. E. L.
Winebrenner, residing west of the city on rural route
No. 3, died last Sunday evening and was buried
Monday. The funeral services were held at the Round
Grove church.
Mrs. Hamlin Morris left yesterday morning for
Muncie, Indiana, to make her future home with her
parents. Mrs. Morris is the widow of Ham Morris who
spent over ten years contesting for a valuable Kay
county farm about two miles west of Ponca City. Her
many friends will wish her a pleasant return to her
girlhood home.
Card of Thanks. -- To the many neighbors and friends
who gave us their assistance and sympathy during the
illness and death of our dear brother, I wish to extend
my most sincere thanks, and to wish that such sorrow
may not soon be theirs. Mrs. M. H. Chenoweth.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 January 1906
Mother Roberts. -- We take from the Red Oak, Iowa,
Sun of January 5th the following account of the burial
of Mrs. H. Roberts at that place on the 29th of
December:
"Charles DeRoberts, formerly of Red Oak, now a
prominent businessman of Ponca City, Okla., arrived in
Red Oak [unreadable type] with the remains of his aged
mother, Mrs. H. Roberts, who dies on Dec. 27 at the
home of her son. A group of the older business men
and some ladies who had known Mrs. Roberts and her
son when they resided in Red Oak some 20 years ago
met at the cemetery where religious services were
conducted by Rev. W. W. Merritt, an old-time friend.
Mr. Roberts, in partnership with his father, carried won
extensive mercantile business in Red Oak, on the north
side of the square, for a number of years, they opening
a dry goods store here in 1858, and continuing in
business here nearly 20 years. The firm was H. Roberts
& Son."
Thus closes the record of a long and useful life, but
who shall estimate the influences for good of its
unselfish devotion to love and duty? Mother Roberts
was one of those of whom it may be truly said that she
did good and not evil all the days of her life. In her
later years she was indeed a mother in Israel,
exemplifying in her pure and simple life and all
embracing love of the Master whom she served in
sincerity and truth. The writer had not the privilege of a
personal acquaintance with this good woman, but the
love and reverence in which she was held by her
children and all who knew her is abundant evidence of
her worth. All loved her, but the devotion of her son C.
DeRoberts, himself a elder man and engrossed with the
cares of business has often been remarked upon as one
of the pleasant things of our daily life. On sunshiny
days one often met or passed upon the quiet shady
streets or country roads this son and mother driving
together in happy forgetfulness of the cares and troubles
of life. As the years had gone by the relation which
each bore to the other had been reversed, and now the
son bestowed upon the mother the protecting care
which had so freely given him in the days when her
love and protection encompassed the bounds of his
childest vision. And in her daughters also, Mrs. Harvey
and Mrs. Chenoweth she found a haven of love and
135
wealth of devotion vouchsafed to few who tread life's
uneven pathways.
In the quiet churchyard near the old home, beside
the body of the husband who had gone before, rests all
that was mortal to Mother Roberts, while the memory
of her beautiful life is kept green by grateful hearts.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 January 1906
Lloyd Beach, 9-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs.
Charles Beach, died at the family home two miles east
of the twin Bridges at noon today of Pneumonia and
complications. The funeral will be held at the church in
that neighborhood tomorrow afternoon. [Lloyd is
buried in Longwood Cemetery.]
Mrs. Melissa A. Scott, aged 81 years died at the
home of her son, S. L. Scott, on south Eight street, at 9
o'clock last night. She came here from Iowa on a visit
some weeks ago and was taken sick about a week ago.
Services will be held at the home tomorrow afternoon
and the body will be taken to Dexter, Iowa, for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 January 1906
The funeral of Mrs. Melissa Scott was held at the
home of her son, S. L. Scott, on south Eighth street at 2
o'clock this afternoon, the services being conducted by
Rev. D. Luther Edwards, pastor of the Presbyterian
church.
John Mann died at the home on south first street
at six o'clock this morning, after a long illness, aged 24
years. Arrangements for the funeral will not be made
until friends in Iowa can be heard from, but it is
probable that the body will be taken to Iowa for burial.
The parents of the young man, who have been making
their temporary home here during his illness have the
sympathy of our people in their trouble. The father is
an old soldier, and such attention as his comrades here
may be able to extend at this time will doubtless be
gratefully received.
[Another story from the same paper] The funeral of
John Mann, who died this morning, will be held from
the Presbyterian church at 2:30 o'clock p.m. tomorrow
under the auspices of the G. A. R. Post. Burial will be
made in the Ponca City cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 18 June 1906
Shooting at Bliss. -- Bliss, Oklahoma, Jan. 15 -- Wm.
Haney shot and killed John Cross Saturday night at
7:30 o'clock. Cross had been employed by Haney.
Saturday afternoon, it is said, Cross drank heavily and
picked a quarrel with Haney concerning a young girl
who was employed by Haney.
Haney left Cross and went home and while he was
at supper, Cross went to this home. Mrs. Haney met
him at the door when Cross attacked her with a club,
drove her into the room, and came in and went for
Haney. Haney got his gun and shot Cross through the
neck, he dying in fifteen minutes. Haney then had
some friend telephone J. W. Eldridge, deputy sheriff at
136
Red Rock, what had [been] done. Eldridge took his
man to Perry and he will await the action of the courts
there.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 January 1906
Lloyd Kelso, son of Charles E. and Alice J. Beach,
was born on August 25th, 1897 and died January 17th,
1906, aged 8 years, 11 months and 22 days. Little
Lloyd was an exceptionally bright child and the pride of
the whole family, But the all wise Father wished him on
the other side and so has taken him. He bore his great
suffering with unusual fortitude and patience. Before
he left he calmly bade his father, mother, brothers,
sisters and the neighbors who had waited on him good
bye, and asked them all to meet him in heaven. The
funeral service was held in the Baptist church northeast
of Ponca City on the afternoon of the 18th. A very
large congregation of friends and neighbors were
present to show their sympathy. The victorious death
of this bright child has made a deep impression on the
hearts of many and it is hoped will cause many to
change their manner of living.
Father, mother,
grandmother brothers, and sisters are left to mourn for
the departed. He cannot return to them, but they can go
to him. "Suffer little children to come unto Me and
forbid them not for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven."
The little body was tenderly laid away in the
community burying ground to await the resurrection
morning. M.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 January 1906
Obituary. -- Mrs. Melissa Ann Barnett Scott was born
in Clinton county, Ohio, April 10, 1825. When she
was six months old her parents moved from Ohio to
Marian county, Ind., where she grew to womanhood.
She was married in Indiana to Mr. Eli Scott, April 23,
1851. To this union six children were born, five of
whom are living. In 1865 with her family she moved to
a farm in Iowa and became pioneers in that state. Her
husband died fourteen years ago last Christmas and
since that time, she, with one of her daughters have
lived in the town of Dexter, Iowa. About two months
ago they came to visit for a few weeks with her two
sons and one daughter who live at Ponca City.
Week ago last Sabbath she was taken very ill, and
suffered intensely. All that love and skill could do was
done for her but the end came Tuesday, January 16, at 9
o'clock p.m. Her age was 80 years, 9 months and 6
days. Four of her children were at her bedside--one
other son, Rev. Scott, resides at Salem, Oregon. The
tabernacle of clay has been dissolved but her spirit has
passed into the "building not made with hands," into the
life more abundant, the inheritance incorruptible; into
the peace which can neither by marred nor measured.
She was born into and brought up in the Friends
church and lived faithful to her profession throughout
her long life. She was a devout Christian--her outward
conduct was the natural expression of her inward piety.
One of her children said of her: "Her Christian life was
a model in its influence and example. She was a
modest, unassuming woman but she was never afraid to
express her opinion or wanting in courage to be true to
what she felt to be right."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 January 1906
Obituary. -- Death has once more laid hands on one of
our best and most respected citizens. James F.
O'Rourke departed this life last Friday evening after a
short illness caused by blood poisoning. Neither the
well known skill of the attending physician, nor the
loving and constant care of his devoted family were
able to delay the fatal ending. Mr. O'Rourke was a man
of the simple walks of life, but a giant of moral strength
and character. As a husband, he was tender and
faithful; as a father, stern and solicitous; as a man,
honorable and trustworthy; as a Christian, consistent
and fervent.
James F. O'Rourke was born on April 12, 1842 in
Brooklyn, New York. In 1866 he married Miss Agnes
McDonnell, a native of Ireland. From this union were
born 9 children, eight of whom are living. These are:
Mrs. Mary E. Reddy, of Sioux City, Iowa; Charles
O'Rourke, of Blackwell, Okla.; Mrs. Maggie Reddy, of
Sioux City, Iowa; Mrs. Loretta Brown of Guthrie,
Okla.; John F. O'Rourke, Francis Harry O'Rourke, Mrs.
Josephine Mans and Melvin O'Rourke, all of Ponca
City.
All the children were present at the funeral, which
took place yesterday morning from the Catholic church.
Some of them came from a long distance, wishing to
pay this last tribute of respect to the father whom all
loved and respected. May his soul rest in piece!
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 January 1906
Lloyd Beach was buried at the Longwood
cemetery Wednesday. Funeral was preached at the
Baptist church by the pastor of the Methodist church of
Ponca city.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 January 1906
Mrs. Wm. McCarty died at her home in Gray
Horse at one o'clock last night. Wm. McCarty is a
brother of J. H. McCarty, who lives just east of the city
and the family is well known here.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 January 1906
Solomon Young died at the family home in the
southwest part of the city at 12:30 last night of
pneumonia, aged about fifty years. Deceased was
among the first settlers in this part of the country,
having settled on a claim on the Bodoc at the opening,
which he afterwards lost by contest. Funeral services
were held at 2 p.m. today and burial was made in the I.
O. O. F. cemetery. The family has the sympathy of
many old friends and neighbors in their bereavement.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 January 1906
Obituary. -- James F. O'Rourke died at the residence
of his daughter, Mrs. H. B. Mans, South Fourth street,
Friday evening, January 19, 1906, after a very short
illness, the cause of which was blood poisoning, aged
64 years.
Mr. O'Rourke had been a resident of Ponca City for
a number of years, and was held in high esteem by all
who knew him. He was a good citizen, a kind and
loving husband and father and a true Christian.
The funeral was conducted from the Catholic
church Monday morning and the remains laid to rest in
the Catholic cemetery.
James F. O'Rourke was born on April 12, 1842, in
Brooklyn, New York. In 1866 he married Miss Agnes
McDonnell, a native of Ireland. From this union were
born 9 children, eight of whom are living. These are:
Mrs. Mary E. Reddy, of Sioux City, Iowa; Charles
O'Rourke, of Blackwell, Okla.: Mrs. Maggie Reddy, of
Sioux City, Iowa; Mrs. Loretta Brown of Guthrie,
Oklahoma; John F. ORourke, Francis Harry O'Rourke,
Mrs. Josephine Manns and Melvin O'Rourke, all of
Ponca City.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 January 1906
Word reached the city Wednesday morning of the
death of Mrs. Wm. McCarty, of Gray Horse, who died
of pneumonia fever after a short illness. She was a
sister-in-law to J. H. McCarty, of Longwood township.
The funeral will be held at Gray Horse today.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 January 1906
Solomon A. Young died at his home in this city
Tuesday night, of pneumonia, at the age of 50 years.
Mr. Young "made the run" for a claim at the opening,
and settled on a fine one on the Bodoc river, two miles
west of town where he resided until the contest was
decided against him about a year ago. He was an
honest, upright man, a good citizen and neighbor, a
kind indulgent husband and father. The funeral
services were held at the house yesterday afternoon
with interment in I. O. O. F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 February 1906
TOP OF HEAD BLOWN OFF. Otto Cooper Meets
With Fatal Accident While Hunting. NEAR VILLAGE
OF UNCAS. Dog Returns to Home and Leads Mother
of the Young Man to the Place Where the Body Was
Found--No Inquest is Held--Burial at Longwood. -Yesterday afternoon, Otto Cooper, aged about 21
years, son of H. F. Cooper, who resides two miles south
of the village of Uncas in this county, left the house
with a gun and dog for the purpose of hunting rabbits.
Some time later the dog returned to the house and by
his actions plainly showed that something was wrong.
He whined and barked and started off in a certain
direction several times as if he desired to lead the way
137
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, February 1906
Troy Fearnow, son of Mrs. Emily Fearnow, died
at the home near Tyrone, Beaver county, last night aged
17 years. The body will be brought here fur burial.
Deceased is a brother of Mrs. Paul Doepel of this city.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 February 1906
DOUBLE MURDER NEAR NEWKIRK. T. W.
Cassidy and Son Shot by W. H. Morris. WAS IN
DALE TOWNSHIP. Killing Grew Out of a dispute
Between Morris and the Cassidys in Regard to the
Settlement of Accounts. Morris Gives Himself Up to
Sherrif. -- At three o'clock yesterday afternoon, W. H.
Morris, a well known citizen of Newkirk, shot and
killed T. W. Cassidy and his 18-year-old son on the
Morris farm in Dale township about seven miles
northeast of Newkirk. The shooting was done with a
double-barreled shotgun, the elder Cassidy being shot
in the face and neck, and the boy in the back of the
head. Both being instantly killed.
There were no witnesses to the shooting and
nothing is known of the particulars except that Morris
himself has seen fit to tell.
Morris went to neighbor's house and telephoned to
Newkirk telling what he had done. Sheriff Wooden
started at once for the scene of the shooting and met
Morris coming into town. He was placed under arrest
and lodged in jail at Newkirk.
The bodies of the murdered men were taken to
Newkirk, where a coroner's inquest was held this
afternoon no word of which has been received here up
to the time of going to press at 5 p. m. today.
It seems that the Cassidys had been tenants on the
Morris farm that past year and there had been trouble
about the rent. The Cassidys had moved off the farm
and the father and son had returned to the place that day
after their cattle. Morris had objected to the removal of
the cattle until the Cassidys had made settlement for the
rent which he claimed they owed him. This brought on
a quarrel which resulted in the killing.
In accordance with the instruction of his attorneys,
Morris refused to talk about the matter, but it is
understood that he will enter a plea of self defense,
claiming that one of the Cassidys had a revolver.
Morris is a well known citizen of Newkirk, where
he resides with his family, his daughter being a teacher
in the Newkirk public schools.
So far as we can learn, the Cassidy family is not
known here but is said to consist of the wife and several
young children, the son who was killed with his father
being the eldest.
Later.--The Coroner's jury returned verdict to the
effect that the Cassidys came to their death by a gun
shot wound inflected by W. H. Morris.
A later report states that the Cassidy family is in
destitute circumstances.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 February 1906
The funeral of Mrs. L. C. Hunt was held at the
American house at 2 o'clock this afternoon, the services
being conducted by Rev. D. Luther Edwards, pastor of
the Presbyterian church, and interment was made in the
I. O. O. F. cemetery Mrs. Hunt was a widow and had no
relatives residing here.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 March 1906
Another shooting scrape occurred at Newkirk
Tuesday afternoon, in which W. H. Morris of Dale
township shot and killed T. W. Cassidy and his 18
year old son. The trouble arose over the rental of land
belonging to Morris. Morris gave himself up to the
sheriff and is in jail awaiting trial. There were no
to the place where the trouble existed. Finally the
mother of the young man followed the dog across the
pasture and fields to the considerable distance from the
house where the dead body of her son was found. The
whole top of the head had been carried away by a
discharge from the shot gun which he carried and death
had evidently been instantaneous. As the boy was
alone when the accident happened, just how it
happened will never by known. The coroner was
notified, but decided that an inquest was not required as
the death was accidental beyond doubt, and the body
was removed to the sorrow stricken home and prepared
for burial.
The funeral was held at Maple Grove church in the
neighborhood where the accident occurred at 2 o'clock
p.m. today, services being conducted by Rev. O. H.
Ratfors and burial was made in Longwood cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 February 1906
The body of Rev. E. C. Harper, who died at
Mulhall last Tuesday night, was buried in the I. O. O. F.
cemetery at this place at half past eleven o'clock this
morning. The body was accompanied here from
Mulhall by the wife and son. Short services were held
at the grave by Rev. McGaha of this city and Rev. Cole
of Excelsior and Prairie Chapel. Rev. Harper was the
first pastor of the Methodist church of this city, having
organized the class and later erected the first church
building which is now a part of the present structure.
He was held in high esteem by the early settlers among
whom he labored, many of whom were present at the
burial today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 February 1906
Henry Smyth, father of J. J. Smyth of this place
died at the home of his son near Lawton at 5 o'clock
p.m. yesterday, aged 83 years. His home is in
Independence, Kansas, and he was visiting his son at
the time of his death, which was sudden and
unexpected. The body was taken to Independence for
burial, the son here joining the friends from Lawton on
the train carrying the body, which passed this station at
noon today.
138
witnesses to the tragedy and Morris will enter a plea of
self defense.
[The following articles are out of chronological
sequence, but they contain the resolution of this
case.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 24 May 1906
DAMAGE SUIT! Killing of Cassidy at Newkirk
Results in Widow Seeking Damages. EVIDENCE IS
CIRCUMSTANTIAL. Small son left the Scene a Few
Minutes Before the Shooting Occurred. -- Guthrie,
Okla. May 21. A damage suit grows out of the killing
of T. W. Cassidy and his son Finis Cassidy, by W. H.
Morris near Newkirk on February 27 last, has been
appealed to the supreme court by Mrs. Tabitha Cassidy,
widow of the elder Cassity, who sued Morris for $2,000
for the death of her husband and $500 for the death of
her son. Cassidy's five small children, Albert, Walter,
Ivy, Maudie Jane and Willard, are also made plain tiffs
in the suit, which is brought in their behalf by their
mother.
The Cassidy killing was one of the most
sensational that Kay has experienced in recent years.
The Cassidy's had been tenants of Morris' farm eight
miles northeast of Newkirk. He had ordered them to
vacate, and they moved off the place a few days before
the killing, but had returned on that day to get cattle.
Morris objected to their taking the cattle until they paid
rent which he claimed to be still due. The killing was
the outcome of the quarrel which followed.
There were no witnesses to the killing, and Morris
gave the only account to be obtained, except from
circumstantial evidence.
Morris claims that the
Cassitys attacked him, the father with a knife and the
boy with a revolver, and that in self defense he filled
them both full of buckshot from a shotgun which he
was carrying. From the positions of the bodies, and the
marks of shot on a tree nearby, it appeared, however
that the Cassidys were sitting in their wagon and had
fallen out backward to the ground.
Walter Cassidy the 13 year-old-son of the dead
man, left the scene of the murder only a few minutes
before the shooting occurred, and said that Morris was
at that time sitting in his wagon with a shotgun across
his knee and that his father was in his hayrack about
thirty feet away, making a rope halter for a cow. The
half made halter was found on the bottom of the wagon
after the shooting. No weapon was found on the elder
Cassity except a small pocket knife which was closed
and in his pocket. A 38 caliber revolver, which Morris
claimed young Cassidy brandished, was found on the
ground near the bodies. A feature which cannot be
accounted for is the fact that young Cassidy was shot in
the back of the head with a 38 caliber bullet apparently
from that revolver, in addition to the load of shot from
Morris' weapon, which struck him in the face and neck.
Al Wing, who was the first man on the ground after the
killing, was arrested for complicity by reason of the
revolver feature, but was later released.
Morris was indicted for murder by the Kay county
grand jury, and his case was set for trial at the last term
of court, but was continued for the term on account of
his illness. He is about 70 years old and has always
borne a good reputation. A daughter is a teacher in the
Newkirk public schools. Cassidy was 46 years old, and
was also well liked by his neighbors. His family is said
to be in destitute circumstances.
from the Ponca City Courier, 6 October 1906
Morris Acquitted. -- In the case of W. H. Morris,
charged with the murder of the Cassidys, father and
son, tried in district court at Newkirk this week, the jury
returned a verdict this morning of not guilty as to the
first count in the indictment, that of murder of the elder
Cassidy. The case against him for the murder of the
young man is still pending and goes over to the next
term of court.
As the case was generally understood, this verdict
of jury was entirely unexpected and is regarded as one
of the most astounding in the history of criminal
prosecutions. The full details of the killing of the
Cassidys by Morris were published at the time the
crime was committed, and unless some other positive
and unlooked for evidence was produced at the trial,
and we understand there was none, it seems impossible
that a jury of twelve men could be found who would
agree to the kind of a verdict returned in the case.
That Morris killed the men is not disputed, and the
grand jury found sufficient evidence to indict him for
crime of murder in the first degree. If, therefore, the
verdict had been for some less offense, even down to
the lowest degree of manslaughter, there might have
been some reasonable way to account for it, but under
the circumstances a verdict of "not guilty" is regarded
as simply an outrageous travesty of justice and should
be set aside by the court.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 October 1906
W. H. Morris, charged with the murder of the
Cassidys, father and son, at Newkirk, was acquitted by
the jury in the district court last Saturday.
In
conversation with some of the jurors in the case the
reporter was told that the evidence was not strong
enough to convict, the evidence was not strong enough
to convict, the prosecuting attorney failing to bring out
any facts in the case more than that submitted by Morris
himself and substantiated by witness Wing. No blame
should be attached to a jury that has no evidence before
them for conviction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 April 1907
AGED MAN AT BAR OF JUSTICE. Woodson Morris
Faces Murder Charge Second Time. SHOT FATHER
AND SON. Cleared of the Murder of Woodford
139
Cassidy, Must Now Stand Trial for Killing the Son.-Broken in Health by Long Incarceration. -- The tedious
work of securing the jury for the Morris trial began in
the district court at Newkirk today. The murder of
Cassidy and his son by Morris one year ago this spring
attracted much attention and a great deal of interest was
manifested. As a consequence it will be a hard matter
to secure a jury. The Arkansas City Traveler of last
Saturday has the following pathetic story of the murder:
Bowed with the weight of his 65 years and with
hair and beard as white as the driven snow, Woodson S.
Morris, once one of the wealthiest and most respected
citizens of Kay county, must fact trial for the second
time on the charge of murder in the first degree. For
the Morris trial two hundred jurors in addition to the
regular panel have been drawn and will be on hand to
be used in the selection of a jury. Some little delay is
anticipated in getting the necessary twelve men who
will be eligible to sit in the case.
The crime for which Morris is now on trial is the
murder of Finis Cassidy, aged 18 years. The murder
occurred on February 27, 1906, when Woodford P.
Cassidy and his son both fell, shot to death by Morris.
The attorneys for Morris will make the plea of self
defense. It was on this plea and the element of accident
in it that cleared Morris from the charge of murder for
killing the elder Cassidy by the last term of court.
Morris was owner of a farm in the northern part of
Kay county, which he had rented to Cassidy, who
occupied it with his family. The lease was to expire on
March 1, 1906, and Cassidy was preparing to move
onto a lease he had secured in the Kaw reservation. He
had moved a part of his household goods and farming
implements to his new home and had returned to the
farm for some cows and feed which he had left. He
searched the farm early in the morning and with his son
Finis spent the greater part of the morning getting ready
to move the last load of stuff away. Morris appeared on
the scene and some words took place between them,
Several shots were fired and Alfred Wing, a farmer at
work in a field nearby, but not is sight of the scene of
the tragedy, ran to the spot. He found the Cassidys both
lying on the ground dead and Morris walking toward
his wagon. Morris had killed Cassidy senior with shot
gun. He had also shot the boy with the same weapon.
Beside the body of the latter was found a revolver with
some of the chambers empty.
Morris went into Newkirk and surrendered to the
officers making the statement that he had done the
shooting in self defense. The coroner's Inquest held
over the bodies developed the fact that Finis Cassidy
had a bullet wound in his head which had been fired
from behind the ball lodging just under the skin of the
forehead.
As Morris was going toward the road he met the 12
year old son of Cassidy who had been at a neighbor's
and was returning to his father when he heard the
shooting, but did not see any of it. The boy had his
140
hands in his pockets and Morris forced him to take
them out. Wing appeared at this time and Morris who
appeared extremely excited, quieted down. There was
talk of a mob in the neighborhood, but cooler heads
counseled letting the law take its course and this was
averted.
In the trial for the murder of the elder Cassidy,
Morris claimed that the shooting of his was accidental.
He claimed that the boy first attacked him and that he
returned his fire with a shot gun while the lad's father,
sitting on his wagon in the line of fire, was shot by
accident. The jury accepting this version of the affair,
acquitted Morris.
Since the killing he has been constantly in the Kay
county jail, his incarceration extending over one year.
The trial will be most stubbornly fought. At the
former trial County Attorney Virgil Brown was alone in
the prosecution, while at this trial he will be assisted by
C. L. Pinkham, former county attorney.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 April 1907
Morris convicted. -- The arguments in the Morris case
closed last evening and was given to the jury at 6
o'clock. This morning the jury returned a verdict of
guilty, with the recommendation that he be sentenced
for life. The case was heard by Judge Burford. The
prosecution was conducted by County Attorney Virgil
Brown, assisted by C. L. Pinkham. The lawyers for the
defense were W. C. Tetrick of Blackwell and Sam K.
Sullivan of Newkirk. This is the case wherein
Woodford Morris was charged with the murder of Fines
Cassidy, an 18 year old boy, about one year ago. At the
same time he shot and killed the father of the boy, a
crime of which he was cleared at the last term of court,
his plea being accidental shooting. It was brought out
at the trial that Morris not only shot young Cassidy with
a shot gun, but after the boy had fallen mortally
wounded he went up to the man and deliberately fired
the contents of a revolver into the back of his head.
The trouble between Morris and Cassidy grew out of
the eviction of the latter from a farm owned by the
former in the northern part of the county. Morris is an
old man being already gray and enfeebled by his long
incarceration in the county jail at Newkirk. This is the
end of one of the worst tragedies recorded in the district
court of Kay county.
[Woodson H. Morris was born 8 November 1848, died
1 September 1916, and is buried at the Newkirk
Cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 April 1908
Morris Case Appealed. -- Attorneys for W. H. Morris
yesterday filed an appeal in the supreme court from the
verdict of murder rendered by the Kay county jury a
year ago. Morris was sentenced to twenty years in the
penitentiary for the murder of P. W. Cassidy and his 18
year-old son, Finis, on Morris' farm in Dale township in
February 1906. The evidence showed that Morris and
the Cassidys had had some slight differences arising
over their relationship of landlord and tenants. On the
day of the murder Morris went out to the farm armed
with a shot gun and revolver. what occurred prior to
the killing is not known as there were no witnesses, but
Morris claim of self defense was refuted, at least so far
as the boy was concerned, by the fact that he had been
shot in the back of the head. So far as we can see it was
a case of cold-blooded murder and Morris received a
fair trial and a just verdict and is not entitled to an
appeal.
[Resume chronological order.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 1 March 1906
Died--Friday, February 23, 1906, Rovie Bird
Bressie, the infant son of Mrs. and Mrs. R. M. Bressie,
at the Bressie ranch in the Otoe reservation. Funeral
services were conducted from the home on Saturday,,
February 14. The parents have the sympathy of their
lost of friends in Ponca City and the vicinity in their sad
misfortune.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 2 March 1906
Bessie Mabel Osborne, aged 10 years and 7
months, died at the family home in this city on
Thursday, March 1, 1906, of inflammation of the
bowels, after a short illness. The funeral was held from
the Methodist church at 2:30 yesterday afternoon,
services being conducted by Rev. A. J. Taylor, pastor of
the church, and interment in the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
Card of Thanks. We desire to return our heartfelt
hanks to the friends and neighbors and also to the
members of the different churches who so kindly
assisted us in the short illness of our little daughter and
sympathized with us in her death. Such kindness can
never be forgotten and tends to lighten our burden of
sorrow. Miles Osborn, Mrs. Mary Talbitt.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 8 March 1906
Bessie Mabel Osborne, the 10 year-old daughter
of Mrs. Torbit, died Thursday of last week and was
buried Friday in I. O. O. F. cemetery.
David Marz died at the home of Wm. Lansing
Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock, of paralysis, at the age of
76 years. The funeral was held from the residence at 2
o'clock Monday afternoon, with burial at Odd Fellows
cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 March 1906
C. A. Huene, whose wife was burned to death at
Bressie last Saturday afternoon, is in the city this
afternoon with his little son and will leave tonight for
the old home in Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Huene's hands
and face were badly burned in his efforts to save his
wife from the flames.
Albert W. Hough, who was for a number of years
a resident of this city, residing in the Wylde addition,
died at his home in Beaver county last week. Mr.
Hough and his wife, Mrs. Percis O. Hough, who was a
popular teacher in the public schools for several terms,
are well known here, and the wife has the sympathy of
the entire community in her bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 March 1906
W. R. McDonald of this city has succeeded in
securing a pension at the rate of $12 per month for Mrs.
Mary A. Gist, mother of John H. Gist, Company B,
11the U. S. Infantry, who died of cholera at Amouch
Leights, Philippine Islands, in January, 1901. Mrs. Gist
lives in the Osage country and has been trying to make
a living for herself and children under adverse
conditions, and this pension will be a great help to her.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 March 1906
Burned to Death. Dr. F. L. Wallace was called
Saturday afternoon to the home of Mr. and Mrs. C. A.
Huene near the Bressie school house in the Ponca
country, to dress the wounds of Mrs. Huene, who had
been severely burned. Mrs. Huene had been burning
some rubbish in the yard when her clothing caught fire.
Her husband was just returning home and in sight of the
house when the accident occurred, and did not reach her
until too late to render assistance.
Dr. Wallace rendered all the assistance he could,
but found the flesh burned almost to a crisp, there being
only one small spot on her back where the flames had
not reached. The unfortunate woman lived until about
eleven o'clock Saturday night when death relieved her
sufferings.
The funeral was held from the home Sunday
afternoon at 5 0'clock, conducted by Dr. A. J. Taylor, of
the M. E. church of this city with interment in the
Bressie cemetery.
Deceased was 22 years of age. She leaves a
husband and small child, the family formerly resided in
Cleveland Ohio.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 March 1906
The infant child of J. Q. Louthan and wife died at
2 o'clock this afternoon. The funeral will be held at the
home on south Fourth street at 2 o'clock tomorrow
afternoon.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 30 March 1906
It is with hearts full of sympathy that we are called
upon to chronicle the death of the infant daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. J. Q. Louthan. The little one had been
suffering for more than three weeks and all that medical
skill or human love could give was rendered, but all to
no avail. She passed away Monday at 2 p.m. aged 2
months and 20 days. The funeral services were
141
conducted at the family residence on south Main street
Tuesday p.m. at 2 o'clock. Rev. L. D. Edwards
officiating, music was rendered by the Ladies Quartette.
The remains were laid to rest in the Odd Fellows
cemetery. The large circle of friends of the sorrowing
party extended to them their sympathy in this sad hour.
[This obituary appeared again in the 5 April 1906
edition of the Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 31 March 1906
J. P. Miller, aged 74 years, died at his home on
north Third street at five O'clock this morning, of
Bright's disease. The funeral services were held from
the Christian church tomorrow afternoon at two o'clock,
the sermon preached by Rev. R. H. Love. Burial will
be made at the I.O.O.F. cemetery. An obituary will be
published next week. [See below.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 April 1906
GEO. WATROUS KILLS HIMSELF. Boy of 17,
Living at Cross, Commits Suicide. SHOT GUN WAS
USED. The Muzzle of the Gun Was Placed Against the
Breast and the entire charge of Shot entered the heart,
Causing Instant Death--No Inquest Held. -- At 11
o'clock last night, in the village of Cross a mile north of
this city George Watrous, a boy 17 years of age, son
of A. R. Watrous, committed suicide by shooting
himself in the heart with a shot gun. The entire charge
of shot entered the heart tearing a large hole in the body
and the breast around the wound was powder burned
showing that the gun had been placed against the heart
and discharged with the hand or the foot. The shot was
heard by persons close by who ran to the spot, but there
was no signs of life in the body, death having been
instantaneous.
The coroner was summoned, but decided that an
inquest was not needed, the fact of suicide being
perfectly plain.
The boy had attended a religious meeting at the
home of Mr. Steele, a neighbor, early in the evening.
Later he went to a grocery store nearby and proposed a
game of checkers with the proprietor, Mr. Perky, but
Mr. Perky said it was too late to play checkers that
night. The last the neighbors remember seeing him he
was playing with some children in front of the store.
He went from there to his home, asked his sister for
paper and pencil and setting down at the table beside
her wrote a note to his mother. It is understood that in
this note he told his mother the cause of his rash act,
blaming his father. He also selected the hymns to be
sung at his funeral, these being "Rock of Ages" and
"Speak for Jesus". The pallbearers were also selected,
being Roy, Uger, Robby and Chet Hartshorne, his
cousins, and Albert Cornell and True Tippitt, boy
friends.
After writing this note, the boy placed it in his
pocket and going out in the road about 200 feet north of
the house, shot himself as stated above.
142
The actions of the boy were the same as usual
during Sunday. He had visited a short time at the home
of his uncle, W. O. Hartshorne, which was his custom
on Sunday, and was in his usual good spirits, and
nothing unusual was noticed in his conduct by
anybody.,
He was a good boy and very popular in the
community. The family is one of the best in the
community, one sister being a teacher in the attached
district of this city and a brother and sister being in
school at Tonkawa. The family has the heartfelt
sympathy of many friends in the terrible calamity that
has befallen them.
No arrangements have yet been made for the
funeral services.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 5 April 1906
Suicide -- George Watrous, 18 years of age,
committed suicide at his home in Cross Sunday night
about 10 o'clock.
Young Watrous was the son of Mr. and Mrs. A. B.
Watrous.
The body was found in the road near the home,
about eleven o'clock, with a shotgun lying beside it and
a hole through the body.
Coroner Widney came over from Kaw City, made
an examination and decided not to hold an inquest as it
was plainly a case of suicide.
A note was found in the boy's pocket stating that he
was going to commit the deed and giving as his reason
that his father had mistreated him. He called his 13year-old sister to him just previous to the rash act and
bid her goodbye. It is a sad case and the parents have
the sympathy of everyone in their hour of trouble.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 April 1906
An Impressive funeral. -- The funeral services for J. P.
Miller who died in this city last Saturday morning,
were held at the Christian church at 2 o'clock this
afternoon. It was one of the most largely attended
funerals ever held in the city, the fine new Christian
church building being filled to its seating capacity. The
funeral sermon by Rev. R. H. Love, pastor of the
church, was one of the most thoughtful and eloquent we
have ever heard, affording consolation and hope for all.
The music by the choir was fine and the floral offerings
were many and beautiful. A large concourse of friends
followed the body to the cemetery where interment was
made. We hope to be able to give a suitable obituary
notice of the deceased in a future issue of the paper.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 April 1906, and
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 April 1906.
J. P. Miller was born and raised in Prebble county,
Ohio, on June 11, 1832. At the age of 21 years he left
his native state and settled in Knox county, Illinois,
making the journey on horseback. On the 6th day of
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, April 1906
E. D. Johnson, ex-register of deeds of this county,
died at his home in Newkirk at 11 o'clock a.m.
yesterday. He had been down town, and returning
home dropped dead of heart failure. He was an old
soldier, perhaps 65 or 70 years of age, and resided at
Kildare when he was elected register of deeds,
removing then to Newkirk, where he has since resided.
"An unusual wreck on the Chicago, Milwaukee &
St. Paul railroad near Elmira, Mo., about forty-eight
miles northeast of Kansas City, at 11:40 o'clock
yesterday morning, was the cause of injuries to S. B.
Brown, a brakeman, from which he died at the
University hospital while he was being taken to a ward.
Brown's home was in Ponca City. O. T. The body was
taken to Eylar's undertaking rooms."
Regarding the wreck, J. S Adsit, freight agent of
the Milwaukee in Kansas City said:
"The wreck was the result of one of those
unforeseen accidents which will happen in spite of all
precaution. A freight train, hauling two gondola cars
loaded with long bridge girder spans was speeding
down grade near Elmira, when one of the beams fell
from the car just as they reached the bottom of the hill.
The girders fell clear of the train touching only the
caboose, from which it tore off the steps and supply
box. The conductor noticing the jar against the
caboose, brought the train to a stop and sent a flagman
back to warn approaching trains.
"Before the flagman could go far enough to be
effective, another freight train came along and crashed
into the girder, which after striking the caboose, had
fallen across the track. The engine and several cars of
the second train were derailed, but no one was injured
except Brown, who was riding on the front end. The
first train backed up and brought him into Kansas city."
Samuel B. Brown was born in Tuscola, Douglas
county, Illinois, on September 19, 1874, and was 31
years, 6 months and 23 days old at his death. Deceased
was the eldest son of C. D. Brown of this city. The
body was brought here for burial. The funeral was held
from the home of his sister, Mrs. E. P. Hurford, on
north Third street, at 2 o'clock p.m., Tuesday April 17,
1906, the services being conducted by Rev. R. H. Love,
pastor of the Christian church, and interment was made
in the I.O.O.F. cemetery.
The funeral was in charge of the Eagles, the
Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and the
Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen, all of which orders
the deceased was an esteemed member. The funeral
was one of the most largely attended ever held in city.
Deceased leaves father, mother, two sisters and
four brothers and a host of personal friends to mourn
his untimely death. To these the sympathy of the entire
community is extended in their sore affliction. [A
similar obituary and story of Mr. Brown's death also
appears in the Ponca City Daily Courier of 16 April
1906, and another obituary, same as above appears in
the 17 April 1906 edition of the Courier.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 19 April 1906
Sam Brown Killed. -- The following account of the
railroad wreck which caused the death of Sam R.
Brown, son of Mr. and Mrs. C. D. Brown of this city,
was taken from the Kansas City Journal:
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 April 1906
Mrs. Basset, died at the home of her daughter,
Mrs. Shepherd, nine miles east of the city last Thursday
evening, aged 78 years. Funeral services were held at
the M. E. church in this city Saturday at 2:30 p.m., and
the body was buried in the I.O.O.F. cemetery.
November, 1855, he was united in marriage to Miss
Catherine Runnion, and to this union were born nine
children, six sons and three daughters. Geo. F. and
John W. were twins, the last named dying in infancy;
Emory Lee, Crista Bell and Elliot J. were born in
Illinois; Meda, Katy, Ellen, Charles, Warren and Myrtle
were born and raised in Nemaha county Nebraska, to
which state he removed in 1868.
In 1898 he moved from Nebraska to Ponca City
where he resided until his death which occurred at 5
o'clock Saturday morning, March 31, 1906.
At the age of 25 years he made profession of
religion and united with the Christian church and lived
up to the highest standard of his profession.
The funeral services were held in the new Christian
church in this city on Monday, April 2, at 2 o'clock
p.m., and were largely attended by the friends and
neighbors. The funeral sermon was delivered by Rev.
R. H. Love, pastor, and was one of the most thoughtful
and eloquent ever heard in the city. The procession that
followed the remains to the cemetery was a long one,
showing the very high esteem in which Father Miller
was held.
He was a kind and loving husband, an affectionate
father, a kind neighbor and a good citizen, and was held
in high esteem by all who knew him. He leaves a wife,
five sons, and three daughters, twenty-one
grandchildren and two great grandchildren, one brother
and two sisters to mourn his death.
It may be truly said of Father Miller that he did
good and not evil all the days of his life. A just and
upright man, the world is better for his having lived in
it, and his life was an example worthy of emulation by
all.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, April 1906
The funeral services of George Watrous, the
young man who committed suicide in Cross Sunday
night were held at three o'clock yesterday afternoon,
and interment was made in the Ponca City cemetery.
The funeral was largely attended.
143
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 May 1906, and
also from the Ponca City Democrat, 5 May 1906
Mrs. Adelia D. Bassett. -- The death of Mrs. Adelia D.
Bassett occurred at the home of her daughter Mrs. W.
C. Shepard, east of Ponca City Thursday evening, April
26.
Mrs. Bassett was born May 4, 1828, in Denmark,
Lewis county, N.Y. She came from New York to
Ponca City about seven years ago. For many years she
has been a member of the M. E. church. She has ever
been a faithful member,, a true Christian, loyal to her
Lord and Master until death.
Those left to mourn the loss of a kind and loving
wife and mother are an aged husband, Henry Bassett of
Russell, N.Y.; two sons and one daughter, one son in
Michigan and one in New York; four grand children
and four great-grandchildren. She went to join her
friends who had been called to that land where death
and sorrow are no more. The sympathy is extended to
the bereaved grandchild, Mrs. D. R. Hindman, of
Winfield, Kans., who was prevented from being here on
account of sickness.
The funeral was held at the M. E. church at 2
o'clock p.m. last Saturday, Rev. Taylor officiating.
Interment in the Odd Fellows cemetery.
Though she sleepeth in yonder grave, she liveth in
sweet recollection.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 May 1906
Card of Thanks. We would extend our heartfelt
thanks to the friends and neighbors who so kindly
showed their love and sympathy by ministering to the
wants of our loved one. We would also thank those
who so kindly assisted at the funeral. Mr. and Mrs. W.
C. Shepard, John S. Towle.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 May 1906
WOMAN ON THE WARPATH. Oscar Taylor shot
Down by His Divorced Wife. DANGEROUSLY
WOUNDED. His Assailant Emerges From a Stairway
as He is Passing by and Opens Fire on Him with a
Revolver, Every Shot Taking Effect. -- At about half
past eight o’clock last evening, in front of the Maring
hardware store on Grand avenue in this city. Oscar
Taylor was shot and seriously if not fatally wounded
by his divorced wife, Mrs. Lotta Taylor.
Taylor was in town from his farm about a mile and
a half west of the city, and was getting ready to return
home. As he passed the stairway leading to the second
story of the Simms building where Mrs. Taylor rooms
she rushed out onto the sidewalk and opened fire upon
him with a 38 caliber revolver at short range. The first
shot took effect in his back, just above the left hip,
causing him to fall on the sidewalk. This was followed
by three or four more shots two of which took effect in
the left shoulder.
144
The woman was wild with excitement and anger,
and evidently shot to kill, continuing to snap her
revolver after all the chambers were emptied.
Taylor was able to walk with assistance to the
office of Dr. Niemann, where his wounds were dressed
temporarily, when he was removed to the Planters
hotel. The wounds are severe and may prove fatal,
though there is a chance that he may recover.
The woman was arrested and placed in the city jail
where she was detained overnight, and this morning
was taken to Newkirk where her preliminary
examination will be held as soon as the result of
Taylor's wounds can be ascertained with some degree
of certainty.
Taylor and his wife have had trouble for some time
and were recently divorced. Mrs. Taylor being given
custody of their one child, a boy about six years old.
What the special occasion for the shooting was, if any,
is not known.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 3 May 1906
OSCAR TAYLOR SHOT. His Divorced Wife Shoots
Him Three Times.--Not Necessarily Fatal. -- Ponca
City witnessed another shooting affair on the streets
about nine o'clock last night, when Mrs. Taylor emptied
a 38 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver, shooting at her
husband, Oscar Taylor well known to our readers.
The story of the shooting as told by Oscar and two
witnesses to the affair, is about as follows:
Oscar and Commissioner Shoemaker of Tonkawa,
were in Geo. Diehl's saloon. Oscar's horse being tied in
front of the saloon. He went across the street to buy
some meat. While he was in the market he saw Mrs.
Taylor pass the market and enter the Fox restaurant. He
came out and went across the street and put the meat in
the buggy and started to find Mr. Shoemaker who was
going out home with him. He went east as far as
Kilpatrick's restaurant, then turned and went west again.
Just as he got in front of Maring's hardware store, Mrs.
Taylor stepped out from the stairway leading up over
Simms' store and opened fire on him. The gun at first
missed fire and Oscar dodged. The second attempt
Oscar was hit and he fell to the sidewalk as another shot
was fired. He turned over and shouted, "My God,
Lottie, are you going to kill me?" Two or three more
shots were fired in rapid succession. There being
several different opinions as to the total number fired.
Roy Shiel was standing in front of Shiel's saloon
and he went as fast as he could toward the woman who
still held the empty gun in her hand. He wrenched the
gun from her and by this time a large crowd had
congregated, and Deputy sheriff Al Hatten took the
woman in charge placing her in the city jail.
Oscar was taken to the office of Dr. George
Neiman, where he called in Drs. Wallace and Panton to
assist him in dressing the wounds. It was found that
three bullets had taken effect, one entering the left side
passing through the body and coming out over the left
kidney. This is the wound most feared by the
physicians, as it is not known whether the kidneys are
hit or not. The other two balls hit in the left arm near
the shoulder, one passing through the arm and the other
ball entering muscle and lodging somewhere,
presumably in the arm. "The hole was probed to a
depth of six inches but the ball could not be located.
About eleven o'clock Oscar was taken to the
Planters hotel in a very weakened condition, his pulse
reaching 120. At present writing he is resting easy and
it is thought he will pull through all right. He is
possessed with wonderful vitality.
Mrs. Taylor was taken to Newkirk on the early
morning train where she will be held pending a
preliminary hearing unless she waives a preliminary
and is allowed bond, which will probably be the case.
The reporter failed to get an interview with Mrs. Taylor
and consequently are unable to give her side of the
shooting affray.
It is a deplorable state of affairs, very much
regretted by our citizens.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 May 1906
The wages of Sin. -- Last Friday night a woman was
arrested on south First street for disorderly conduct and
lodged in the city jail. Saturday she was arraigned in
police court, gave her name as Rose Duvell, and was
given a twenty days jail sentence. Sunday morning she
was found dead in her cell in the jail. She was sitting
on her bunk in the jail, her feet resting on the floor and
her eyes and mouth were closed as if in sleep, showing
that she had died peacefully and without a struggle. Dr.
Widney, the county coroner, was notified by phone and
came over from Kaw City Sunday and held an inquest
on the body in the police court room. After hearing the
evidence, the coroner's jury returned a verdict of death
by heart failure.
The body was removed to Hayden's undertaking
rooms, where it is being held until relatives can be
found if possible. It is said that the woman's husband
resides at Wichita and his name is James Glayson, but
so far it has been impossible to locate him there.
The woman appeared to be about 30 or 35 years
old, of medium height, rather stout and apparently in
good bodily health. She is said to be a Mexican or half
breed Indian.
It is hardly probable that her husband--if there is such a
person--will be heard from, and the body will likely be
buried at public expense.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 May 1906
Doronethilda Souligny died at her home in Clay
county, Kansas, on Sunday 6 (sic), 1906, aged 72 years,
9 months, and 22 days. She was the mother of J. P.
Souligny and Mrs. Underside of this city and Mrs.
Steward of Clay county, Kansas. Deceased had been a
widow for more than forty-two years, her husband
having died in the army during the civil war.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 May 1906
A telephone message received today by Miss
Duncan brings the sad news that the child of Mr. and
Mrs. C. E. Cutting died at the family home in Arkansas
City at five o'clock this morning. funeral services will
be held from the home, 718 B street, at 3 o'clock
tomorrow afternoon.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 May 1906
Died--This morning the son of Mr. and Mrs. C. E.
Cunnings, aged four years and nine months. A
complication of diseases was the cause of death. The
family recently moved to Arkansas City when the child
was taken sick and since then has been continually
down with some trouble. The family are comparative
strangers her, Mr. Cunnings being the manager of the
Pond Lumber company's yard. The funeral of the little
one will be held tomorrow afternoon from the home,
718 South B. street; with burial in Parker cemetery.
Rev. Lowe will conduct the services. The parents have
the sympathy of the entire community in their
bereavement--Arkansas City Traveler, 16th.
The Cunnings family--not Cutting as given
yesterday--were residents of this city for some time,
Mr. Cunnings being in the employ of F. M. Duncan as
undertaker and their friends here are pained to hear of
their bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 May 1906
The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. R. P. Baughman
died at the home on east Grand avenue this morning of
cholera infantum, aged 2 years, 1 month, and 24 days.
The little fellow was sick only a few hours. Funeral
services will be held at the home at 5 o’clock this
evening and the body will be taken to Howard, Kansas,
for burial. The family has the sincere sympathy of the
entire community in their sad affliction.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 24 May 1906
Death of Mrs. Harper. -- The death of Mrs. C. D.
Harper was a great shock to our people and to the
many friends of the family. She passed away Monday,
May 21, 1906. The funeral services were held at the
Methodist Episcopal church, Wednesday afternoon, at
four o'clock conducted by Rev. H. H. Miller of Perry,
former pastor at this place. The remains were taken to
Goddard, Kansas, for burial, accompanied by the
husband, two little daughters and other relatives.
Ella Williams was born November 22, 1894, in
Elmore county, Alabama, and was married to C. D.
Harper, November 22, 1900. The children born of this
union were Lois LaVern, Margarite Velma, and the
little infant whose life went out with the mother's.
Mrs. Harper was converted when about ten years of
age and has ever lived a consistent and consecrated
Christian life measuring up in all things to the high
standard of womanhood and motherhood as set forth in
Proverbs 31, which was the appropriate text of Rev.
145
Miller's remarks, earnestly and feelingly delivered. The
second text also was true of this beautiful life--2
Timothy, 4: 7-8. She has fought a good fight, kept the
faith and finished the course.
A large circle of friends offered their sympathy to
the husband and little ones: but nowhere will she be
more missed than in the Sunday school classes of
young men and young ladies where she has taught for a
number of years.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 May 1906
C. D. Harper returned this morning from Goddard,
Kansas, to which place the body of his wife was taken
for burial. Geo. W. Williams of Wichita, Kansas, and
Mrs. Nall of Chester, Arkansas, brother and sister of
Mrs. Harper, accompanied him home and remain for a
short visit.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 May 1906
In the death of Thomas Fallin of Perry, one of the
oldest men in Oklahoma and an old soldier with a bit
interesting history, goes to join the comrades preceding
him. Mr. Fallin was 80 years old. Some years before
the war opened, Mr. Fallin went south to work on the
levees of the Mississippi river at New Orleans. Just
after the war broke out a rebel officer rode into the
camp one day and ordered the men to report at
headquarters for duty. Mr. Fallin escaped from the
camp and was lucky in getting to the landing before the
last northern steamboat started for the north. He hid
away in the hold of the vessel and got to Wisconsin
where he enlisted in a union regiment.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 June 1906
Death of M. G. Gill's Father -- M. G. Gill returned
Saturday night from Grove City, Pennsylvania, were he
was called two weeks ago on account of the serious
illness of his father. His father died before his arrival,
but he was there in time for the funeral. A remarkable
feature of the funeral was that the eight sons of the
deceased were all at the funeral, it being the first time
they had all been together for over thirty years.
We take the following obituary notice from the
Grove City Reporter of June 1:
"John A. Gill, one of the oldest and most respected
residents of Wolf Creek township, died on Monday
morning after an illness from old age infirmities
extending over a period of about a year. He was over
84 years of age and had been one of the most rugged
men of the community, and up until a couple of years
ago he was apparently as strong and active as many a
man younger by a score of years. He was born on
March 23, 1822. His early life was spent in lumbering,
and he took great delight in recalling the experiences of
the days when he helped to float logs down the streams
and rivers to the Pittsburg markets. On April 9, 1857,
he was married to Miss Sarah E. Russell, after which he
settled down to the life of a farmer and huckster in
Wolf Creek Township, which has since been his home.
146
In politics he was always a staunch Republican, but his
ambitions in this line never reached beyond the
township offices, with a number of which he had been
honored and which in turn were honored by his
incumbency. He had enjoyed a distinction perhaps
unequaled in the state in the he had served as justice of
the peace in the township for an unbroken period of
forty-five years, and during all of this long time he had
never had a decision reversed by the courts. An
unvarying rule in connection with the cases brought
before him, was that he would never issue a summons
in any other than an unusual criminal case when the
complainant first appeared before him, but would
always tell the person asking the summons or warrant
to think the case over until the next day, and that if they
were then still of the same mind he would give the case
a hearing, and thus in a remarkably large number of
cases action was dropped by the persons so advised
having time to allow anger to drop out of sight and
allowing of an amicable settlement of the differences
with the other parties. He had been for many years a
faithful member and worker in the Amity Presbyterian
church, in which he had held different official positions.
In his everyday life he was as conscientious and honest
as were his religious professions sincere, and there were
none who knew him to doubt his integrity. His wife
and the following children are left to mourn his loss: S.
Scott of Butler, H. Russell, Wm. J., C Newton and Otis
A., of Pittsburg: Meade G. of Oklahoma; Ira H. and
Harry L. of Wolf Creek township. All were present at
the funeral services which were held in the Amity
church on Wednesday, followed by interment in the
Amity cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 14 June 1906
Death of Ben C. Rigg. -- Ben C. Rigg died at his
home, 218 south C street at 2 o'clock this morning.
Deceased had been in failing health for some time with
locomotor Ataxia, and his death was not unlooked for.
He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Rigg of this city
(Arkansas City, Kansas), and was about 45 years old,
and moved with his parents here from Canada some
twenty years ago.
He was married to Fanny Smith in this city
fourteen years ago, who with two daughters survive
him.
The funeral will be held from the residence at 2:30
p. m. -- Arkansas City Journal.
Mr. Rigg was a brother-in-law to the editor of this
paper (the Ponca City Democrat), who in company
with his wife, attended the funeral last Sunday.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 June 1906
Marshall T. Rankin Killed. -- At Jetmore, Kansas, on
Saturday, June 16, Marshall T. Rankin, a brother of J.
F. Rankin of this city (Ponca City) , was shot and killed
by a man named Kit Carson. Rankin was a candidate
for sheriff and Carson had started some malicious
reports regarding him for which Rankin had threatened
to prosecute Carson. The killing was a case of cold
blooded and premeditated murder, and Carson narrowly
escaped lynching. An obituary of the murdered man
appears elsewhere in today's paper.
Obituary -- Marshall T. Rankin, deceased, was born in
Des Moines county, Iowa, February 11, 1860 and was
married to Miss Lizzie Calloway on December 7th,
1879. To them was born seven children, three sons and
four daughters all of whom survive him. He moved
with his family to Hodgeman county in 1883 and has
resided here continuously ever since.
Mr. Rankin was an affectionate husband and father
and one of our best citizens. He has been prominently
identified with the affairs of this county ever since he
has been a resident of it. He was a member of Jetmore
Lodge I.O.O.F. and was prominent in the affairs of the
Hodgeman county Cattle Growers Association and in
the Fair Association. His death will be greatly regretted
by all who knew him. He was killed on Saturday, June
16th, 1906, aged 46 years, 4 months and five days. The
funeral services were held at the Methodist church,
Tuesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. T. A. Spence
and burial took place in the cemetery here. --Jetmore
(Kansas) Republican.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 June 1906
Death of A. C. Black. -- A. C. Black, mention of whose
critical illness was made in this paper yesterday, died at
the family home west of town at half-past four o'clock
that same afternoon. Short services were held at the
home this morning and the body will be taken to the old
home at Blue Mound, Illinois, for burial. Rev. R. F.
Love, pastor of the Christian church of this city,
accompanied the family of the deceased to Blue Mound
and will preach the funeral sermon at that place.
Deceased was about 56 years old and leaves a wife and
several children. We are promised an obituary for
publication in the future issue of this paper.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 July 1906
Mrs. Josephine Ryan Tucker died at Cross,
Oklahoma, on Saturday, June 30, 1906, aged 28 years.
Her husband, W. N. J. Tucker, died in Cross two years
ago. She leaves two children, who are with relatives in
Missouri. Though here among comparative strangers,
she was not without friends and was tenderly cared for
during her illness and the body was laid to rest by those
who had held her in highest esteem. Short funeral
services were conducted at the cemetery at 1 p.m. on
Monday, by Rev. A. J. Taylar, pastor of the Methodist
church. Deceased was engaged to be married to a
young man named Snyder, who resides in the Wylde
addition, and the wedding had been set for a week from
next Sunday.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 5 July 1906
Died. Tuesday July 3, the infant child of Mr. and
Mrs. F. S. Glaser, living one mile north of Ponca City
of inflammation of the stomach. funeral was held today
at the Catholic church and the little one laid to rest at
the Catholic cemetery. [Vincent Glaser, b. 27 June,
1906 - d. 3 July 1906.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 July 1906
Jeremiah Klopp Dead. -- Jeremiah Klopp died at his
home east of the city at 4 o'clock yesterday afternoon
from injuries inflicted last Tuesday night by a vicious
bull. Deceased was about 81 years of age and one of
our best citizens. Funeral services will be held at the
Longwood Baptist church at 2 o'clock p.m. tomorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 July 1906
Obituary. -- Jeremiah Klopp was born in Berks
county, Pennsylvania, May 8, 1826, and died at his
home near Ponca City, Oklahoma, aged 80 years 1
month and 29 days.
On August 1, 1849, he was married to Miss
Catherine Kreamer of Stephen county, Illinois, and they
have lived happily together 57 years. To this union
were born seven children, two of whom died early in
life.
He professed faith in the lord Jesus Christ and
united with the German Evangelical church in 1850,
afterwards removing to Kansas he united with the
United Brethren church twenty-eight years ago, and has
lived a consistent member of that church until called to
join the church triumphant.
Having reached the age of four score years, he
lived in the attitude of perfect health, awaiting the
Master's call, and was ready at any time to meet his
Savior and loved ones on the other shore.
He always said he would go before his wife, and
although she has been in poor health for over three
years, she is left to mourn his loss with two sons and
three daughters. He was a kind husband, loving father
and a good citizen.
Mr. Klopp was one of the earliest settlers in
Longwood township, this county, and by his thrift and
industry has opened out a fine farm, built (a) good
house, barns, etc., and was taking life easy as it is
possible for an active worker to do.
The funeral was very largely attended, the services
being conducted at the Longwood Baptist church by
Rev. Kirkpatrick, pastor of the Enterprise Presbyterian
church, the burial taking place in the Longwood
cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 July 1906
Michael Welch, aged about 65 years, died
suddenly last Saturday evening. He was found dead in
the shack he had been occupying for some time past.
He was a native of Ireland, and so far as is known had
147
no relatives in this country. The body was given burial
yesterday by the county authorities.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 July 1906
Henry Smith died at the Kaw Agency yesterday,
aged 57 years. He was a native of England and came to
the country in 1855 with his parents. He was unmarried
and his only relatives here are Isaac Smith and wife,
who reside near this city. The funeral services were
held in the Presbyterian church at 2 o'clock this
afternoon, conducted by the pastor, Rev. D. Luther
Edwards, and interment was made in the I.O.O.F.
cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 July 1906
Leo, the thirteen-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. T.
H. Burns, died at the family home near Excelsior
church, northwest of this city, on Sunday, after an
illness of three weeks, of sunstroke. The funeral was
held at the home at 2 o'clock p.m., Monday, the
services being conducted by Rev. R. H. Love of this
city, and burial was made in the Ponca City cemetery.
[A lengthy tribute to Leo Burns appears in the 19 July
1906 edition of the Ponca City Daily Courier. It
contains no information of genealogical value.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 19 July 1906
Death. -- Mrs. Levi Alexander died Sunday, July
15, 1906, at the home of Geo. W. McDonald, in the
Osage nation, southeast of Ponca City, of consumption.
The remains were taken to Washunga, Monday, for
burial. The funeral being preached at 1:30 p.m. by the
Catholic priest of that place.
Lulu Choteau was 21 years of age. She was
married to Levi Alexander on August 7, 1901. About a
year ago she contracted consumption and since then in
company with her husband, they have been traveling in
the mountains of Colorado with a view of regaining her
health, but to no avail. They returned home about three
weeks ago when all hopes had vanished.
The community will extend to the grief stricken
husband its most sincere sympathy in his hour of
sadness.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 July 1906
Man Killed at Newkirk. -- Herb Rateliff was struck by
the northbound Santa Fe passenger train at Newkirk
yesterday morning and so badly hurt that he died within
half an hour. He was standing on the track and being
hard of hearing failed to hear the whistle or the bell in
time to get off the track before the engine struck him.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 July 1906
A very sad accident occurred Tuesday morning at
the railroad crossing at 7th street (in Newkirk) which
resulted in the death of Herbert S. Rector, son of
George Rector. Herbert was crossing at or near the
148
main line and was watching out for a freight. The
northbound passenger was late and entered the city
limits at fast speed. Herbert was unable to get clear of
the track and was struck by the steam box of the engine.
He was rendered unconscious. He was taken to the
offices of Dr. A. L. Hazen where he expired an hour
after being struck. He was 29 years of age. The funeral
occurred Wednesday from the M. E. church at 4 o'clock
p.m. --Newkirk Republican News Journal.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 16 July 1906
W. F. Wallace and family went to Winfield,
Kansas, Monday, to attend the funeral of Mrs. George
Wallace, the wife of Frank's youngest brother. The
death was a sudden one, the family having gone to
Eureka Spring, Arkansas, for the benefit of the health of
one of their children, when Mrs. Wallace took suddenly
ill and died. The remains were laid to rest in the
Winfield cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 September 1906
Sad News. -- J. S. Guinea and wife of this city received
a telegram this morning bringing the sad news that their
son-in-law, A. P. Brown, had been killed at 12 o'clock
last night in a railroad accident near Creston, Iowa. Mr.
Brown was a passenger conductor on the B & M
railroad, and made his home at Creston. No particulars
of the accident were given in the telegram. Mr. and
Mrs. Guinea leave on the Santa Fe tonight for Creston.
Their daughter, who is their only child, was married to
Mr. Brown at her home here in Ponca City about eight
years ago. Mrs. Guinea returned only a few days ago
from a visit with her daughter in Creston. Deep
sympathy is felt for Mr. and Mrs. Guinea in the sever
affliction that has befallen them.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 September 1906
Obituary. -- Mrs. E. R. Green died Monday,
September 10, at 2 p.m., at the family home in
Tonkawa, aged 47 years, 10 months and 27 days, after
an illness of over a month. The immediate cause of
death was pneumonia. She had previously enjoyed
good health.
Dora Eisiminger was born in Green county,
Pennsylvania, her parents being Mr. and Mrs. T. J.
Eisiminger. The family moved to Oskaloosa, Iowa, in
1866, where Miss Eisiminger was married to O. M.
Thomas in 1878, who died in 1882. In 1887 she was
married to E. R. Green, and later moved to Nebraska,
where they resided until the opening of the Cherokee
strip in 1893. Mr. Green made the run and secured a
claim on the Chikaskia river near Virginia City (now
Autwine). Here the family lived some eight or nine
years, when they moved to their present farm home
adjoining Tonkawa.
Mrs. Green was of a retiring disposition, living
much within her home, although she enjoyed many
trips to other states in the company of her husband, son
or daughter, but her greatest pleasure was in her home.
She was a member of the Eastern Star and Culture
Club. On the day of her death the latter organization
was to have held its regular meeting, but out of respect
to their departed member, they adjourned.
The deceased leaves a family consisting of
husband, son, O. M. Thomas; daughter, Lucy Green;
three brothers, J. A. Eisiminger, Ponca City, J. M.
Eisiminger, Blackwell, Frank Eisiminger, Boise, Idaho:
and a sister, Mrs. E. E. Morrow, Blue Springs, Neb.
The funeral was held at the home Tuesday
afternoon at 4 o'clock, conducted by Rev. D. W. Irwin
of the Methodist church. The U. P. S. choir sang
beautiful songs of consolation. The floral offerings
were beautiful and gave evidence of the high esteem in
which the deceased lady was held.
Interment will be at the old home at Oskaloosa,
Iowa.--Tonkawa News
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 September 1906
Earl Saltmarsh, stepson of E. E. Mason, died at
the family home in the Wylde addition yesterday
morning of rheumatism, aged 19 years. Deceased was
employed in the Ponca City mills and was an
industrious and reliable young man, highly esteemed by
his employers. The funeral was held from the home at
2 o'clock this afternoon, the pallbearers being from
among his fellow employees at the mill.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 September 1906
In Memoriam. -- At Colorado Springs, Colorado,
Friday night, September 14, at nine o'clock after five
weeks of patient suffering with typhoid fever the end
came peacefully to Miss Ethel Reece. The last fifteen
months she has spent in the pure Colorado climate on
account of ill health. She had about recovered her
health and was living in the sweet anticipation of
returning to her home when the fatal fever came.
Miss Ethel was the efficient deputy treasurer
during her father's term as County treasurer and was
also one of the pioneer teachers of this county. She was
a faithful member of the Presbyterian church and her
sweet Christian life and example is a benediction that
few can surpass. Her father, mother and two brothers
were with her when the end came, and on the following
quiet Sabbath day they accompanied the body to
Newton, Iowa, and there in the family burying ground
laid the last of mortality away to await the resurrection
day.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 September 1906
Death of J. C. McAdams. -- The Kaw City Star, of the
29th has the following account of the death of a
prominent citizen of that place:
J. C. McAdams, a prominent business man of this
city, died last Monday afternoon at four o'clock. He
had been suffering for several weeks from a case of
typhoid fever, but his friends had steadfastly hoped for
his ultimate recover. Hardly at any time was his
condition supposed to be as serious as that of his wife,
who was suffering with the same disease.
Mrs. McAdams has been lying at the point of death
for two weeks, and many days little hopes have been
entertained for her recovery. Mr. McAdams was
possessed of a very strong constitution, but it is thought
that probably the constant uneasiness felt for the
welfare of his beloved one who lay so ill in the same
house bore on him more than his attendants realized.
His ever thought was for his wife and her care.
Saturday of last week, he suffered a relapse from which
he gradually sank until life was no more.
Friends and relatives cared for the sick ones with
all the care that human knowledge could give, but He
who is mighty and prevails, intervened and His will was
done.
In this vicinity, every heart beats in sympathy for
the grieved and distracted ones, and especially for the
poor sick wife who lies helpless on her sick bed. Two
sweet and cheerful little girls, Thelma and Elner, and
the little baby girl, Helen, are left to comfort their
mother, their grandparents and other relatives. Not
since the starting of Kaw City has our town experienced
a more heart rendering incident. Mr. McAdams was a
friend indeed to everyone he met; he was successful in
business, an ardent worker, in the Methodist church and
was always ready with a helping hand for those in need.
Funeral services were conducted at the residence of
H. H. McAdams Tuesday at 4:00 p.m. by Rev. Carder
of the M. E. church, in which also the Masonic brothers
took a prominent part.
The entire community
practically congregated about and witnessed the
ceremony which forever separated them from their
brother and friend. His body was taken away on the
evening train for Blackwell, Oklahoma, where
interment was made Wednesday, Lodge brothers,
relatives and friends accompanied him to his last resting
place.
The sick and distracted wife, the grief stricken
parents and relatives have the profound sympathy of the
whole community.
All places of business were closed during the
funeral services Tuesday out of respect for them and the
departed one.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 October 1906
Dr. Elliott Dead. -- We learn by telephone from
Blackwell today that Dr. Elliott, one of the oldest, best
known and most respected citizens of that city, was
found dead at five o'clock last evening as the result of
an accident. It seems that Dr. Elliott fell down the
stairs leading from the street to his office in the second
story of a building, and was dead when found, though
his neck was not broken. He had long been a sufferer
from heart disease. Dr. Elliott came to Blackwell at the
opening of the Strip and his practice and the increase in
values of property made him wealthy.
149
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 October 1906
The nine-year-old daughter of Frank Ellison,
who lives nine miles northeast of the city, died last
night of scarlet fever, having been taken with the
disease only two days before. A son of the family,
younger than the girl who died, is also down with the
same disease, which is epidemic in that neighborhood,
the school having been closed on account of it. [Sadie
Ellison, b. 16 Mar 1898 - d. 30 Sep 1906]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 October 1906
Obituary. -- The following account of the death of Dr.
C. G. Elliott is taken from the Blackwell News of
Monday, Oct. 1: Died, Sunday, Sept. 30 1906, about 5
p.m. Dr. C. G. Elliott of this city, aged about 41 years.
The doctor's death was very sudden and somewhat
tragic, and the news was a great shock to his many
friends. The doctor had gone to his office over the
Blackwell National Bank upon his return from
attending a patient. Having put his medicine case away
he started down the stairs to go home. At the head of
the stairs he was attacked by heart failure and fell, the
body rolling down to the foot of the stairs. Mitt Moore
happened to be across the street, and Carl Vincent was
in the bank, and both ran to the doctor's assistance.
With the help of others who soon appeared he was
stretched out in the doorway of the bank and medical
assistance summoned. Drs. Miller and Risser were
soon there and did all that medical science suggested,
but to no purpose. The doctor was placed on a cot and
carried into the bank, and his life gradually passed away
without him having regained consciousness.
Dr. Elliott was well known in this vicinity and
throughout the territory. He was one of the original
Oklahoma "boomers" and passed through many
exciting experiences of those early days. When the
Cherokee strip was opened he made the run and secured
a claim about four miles east of Blackwell for which he
obtained a patent and finally sold. He was a true
pioneer, and when the "new country" was opened in
1901 he went to Temple, Okla., and leased a section
and a half of land, which he still held at the time of his
death. He was an active politician of the republican
faith and was the first member of the territorial
legislature from this district.
Under Gov. Ferguson's administration he was
appointed superintendent of the insane asylum which
was to have been moved to Fort Supply but which
removal was prevented by an injunction obtained by the
contractors of the asylum at Norman.
Dr. Elliott last year returned to Blackwell and has
since practiced his profession here. He was a public
spirited citizen, an influential member of the
Commercial club, being one of the directors. He was
also well connected socially, being a member of the
Masonic, Modern Woodmen, and Fraternal Aid
societies.
150
Dr. Elliott leaves a wife and two children, a boy
and a girl, to mourn the death of a kind husband and
father, and also the following relatives who were
notified and came at once to Blackwell: Mrs. Jane
Elliott, his mother, of Burden, Kansas; Mrs. A. O.
Elliott, a sister, also of Burden,, Kansas; Mrs. Laura
Branson, a sister, of Dexter, Kansas, and her husband;
Mrs. Alta Sackett, a sister of Moline, Kansas, and her
husband.
The funeral services over the remains of Dr. Elliott
will occur at the Methodist church on Tuesday, Oct 2,
at 2 o'clock, the sermon being preached by Rev. W. E.
Woodward, and the services being in charge of the
Masons.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 October 1906
Obituary. -- Justus Jetter was born in White
Cloud, Kansas, January 29, 1874, died in Ponca City,
Oklahoma, October 10, 1906, aged 32 years 8 months
and 11 days. He was married April 26, 1904 at South
Haven, Kansas, to Mrs. Celia Dodson, who with an
infant child survive him.
A short service was
conducted at the residence this morning by Rev. L. O.
Hanson, pastor of the Baptist church, the funeral and
burial to be at Tonkawa today.
Deceased came here from Tonkawa about two
months ago and took a position as night miller in the
Ponca City Mills. He was a steady and industrious man
and held in high esteem by his employers and all who
knew him. His illness was of about ten day's duration,
finally developing peritonitis, of which he died. The
wife and relatives have the sympathy of friends in
Ponca City in the severe affliction that has befallen
them. A funeral offering of a beautiful floral wreath
was made by the employees of the Ponca City Milling
company.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 18 October 1906
W. F. Wallace left yesterday morning for Dexter,
Kansas, in answer to a telegram announcing the death
of his niece, the twenty-year-old daughter of Jim
Wallace, who died Tuesday.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 October 1906
Obituary. -- Louzetta Viola Alderman was born in
Republic county, Kansas, February 24, 1884; was
married to Wm. J. Bacon September 11, 1902; died at
the home of her parents near Ponca City, Oklahoma,
Tuesday, October 16, 1906. Funeral services were held
at their home Wednesday afternoon, conducted by Rev.
R. H. Love, pastor of the Christian church, and
interment was made in the I.O.O.F. cemetery at Ponca
City.
Deceased leaves her husband, two little girls,
father, mother, four sisters and three brothers and many
other relatives and friends to mourn her early departure.
The funeral was largely attended many being
present from the city as well as all the neighbors for
miles around. Mrs. Bacon was loved and respected by
all who knew her, and the relatives have the heartfelt
sympathy of the entire community in their irreparable
loss.
The funeral services were conducted on Thursday,
Nov. 1st., by Rev. Crumley, pastor of the Methodist
church of Ponca City, and interment was made in the
I.O.O.F. cemetery near this city.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 October 1906
Killing at Hardy. At the little town of Hardy in the
northeast part of the county a farmer named
Thompson, living a mile and a half south of that town,
was struck by a young man named Page, a member of
the firm of Homes & Page, merchants, and died within
half an hour. Particulars are meager, but it is
understood that Thompson got into an altercation with
Page in the store, when Page struck him with his fist,
and he fell to the floor and died without recovering
consciousness. Thompson was a man about forty-five
years of age, and holds a lease in the Kaw country.
Page is a fine young business man who stands very high
in the community. The supposition is that he struck the
man on the spur of the moment and had no intention of
more than inflicting some slight punishment that he
thought he deserved. The affair is a very deplorable
one and is cause of general regret in the community
where it occurred.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 November 1906
Obituary. -- The following account of the death of Mrs.
Sarah Middleton, daughter of W. A. Sturdevant and
wife of Longwood township, this county, is taken from
the Lake Arthur, New Mexico, Times:
Mrs. Sarah Middleton, died at 1:45 p.m.
Thursday, October 25, 1906, at the age of only 21. She
had been a sufferer from lung trouble for some time.
About three weeks ago Mr. and Mrs. Harry Middleton
and Mrs. Middleton's mother, Mrs. W. A. Sturdevant,
came to Lake Arthur and opened a restaurant. It was
thought that the climate of this country would be of
benefit to her., but she finally succumbed to the dread
malady. Her death was a sad blow to the young
husband and her family. She had just been married in
the latter part of July of this year. The father of the
dead woman was sent word by wire at Ponca City,
Oklahoma, but it is thought he will not be here for the
burial ceremonies.
The burial took place at Kemp cemetery Friday
afternoon. Mr. Middleton and the relatives of the
deceased have the sympathy of the entire community.
May her soul rest in peace. The following gentlemen
acted as pallbearers: Joe Blackburn, E. B. Martin, W.
W. Smith, Major Locklear, Bob Stedman.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 October 1906
The funeral of Mrs. J. M. Neff was held in the
Longwood church at three o'clock this afternoon. It
will be remembered that the Neff family moved to
Dayton, New Mexico, last fall from their farm in
Longwood township, a few miles east of this city. Mrs.
Neff died at that place on Monday of this week and the
body was brought here for burial. The procession that
followed the remains from town to the church was one
of the largest ever seen in the city, the Neffs being old
settlers here with a large circle of friends. We hope to
have an obituary notice of Mrs. Neff for a later issue of
the paper. [Celia M. Neff, b. 17 May 1870 - d. 28
October 1906.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 5 November 1906
Obituary. -- Joseph C. Luckstead was born in
Mecklinburg, Germany, in 1832; died at his home ten
miles east of Ponca City, Oklahoma, October 31, 1906,
being nearly 74 years of age at the time of his death.
When twenty years of age he came to the United
States from his native country, and in 1866 he was
united in marriage to Miss Nancy Jane Mains, who,
with their seven children remain to mourn the loss of a
loving husband and kind father. The children are John,
James, and William Luckstead of the Osage
reservation, Mrs. Sadie Anderson and Mrs. Maggie
Hargraves, also of the Osage reservation, and Mrs.
Mary Cunningham of Wilmot, Kansas.
Deceased has been a resident of the Osage
reservation for ten years, where he was regarded as a
honest, upright man, and his neighbors join with the
family in mourning his loss.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 November 1906
"Dad" Jones Dead. -- At about three o'clock this
afternoon "Dad" Jones dropped dead in his little
refreshment stand at the corner of Grand avenue and
Second street. Though old and quite feeble, he was in
as apparent good health as usual up to the time of his
death. He fell in his little place and was carried into
Souligny's office, a couple doors away, where he died
in a few minutes and without recovering consciousness.
He was alone at the time he fell, his faithful wife, who
is often with him, being at the home in the southeast
part of the city.
W. E. Jones, or "Dad" as he was familiarly called,
was about 76 years of age and one of our oldest
citizens. No arrangements have yet been made for the
funeral, but it is understood that it will be in charge of
the I. O. O. F. of which the deceased was a member of
long standing.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 November 1906
Funeral Notice. -- All Odd Fellows are requested to
meet at I. O. O. F. hall at 1 o'clock p.m. sharp
tomorrow, Sunday, to attend the funeral of Brother
W. E. Jones. Will leave the hall at 1:15 and march to
home and from there to the Methodist church, where
funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock p.m. Rebekah
151
Degree members are invited to meet with us. Henry
Nickols, N. G.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 November 1906
"Dad" Jones. -- "Dad Jones is Dead," is the report that
spread over the city last Friday afternoon bringing
sadness to many hearts.
As stated in a brief account in Friday evening's
paper, Dad Jones had died suddenly at three o'clock that
afternoon in Souligny's office, having fallen down in
his little refreshment stand two or three doors away, a
few minutes before. It was stated in the account that he
had felt as well as usual that afternoon, but this was not
quite true. To his old friend, J. A. Fowler, he had said
only an hour or so before that he expected to go soon
and gave Mr. Fowler a full statement of his business
affairs and some instructions regarding his funeral. So
it seems that he had a premonition of the approaching
end.
The life of Dad Jones in this community was a
daily object lesson of industry and faithfulness. In
summer's heat and winter's cold, in rain or shine, he
was always ready to answer "here" to the call of duty
and no man can say that he ever failed to fulfill a
promise if in his power to do so. Also his life was a
daily object lesson of cheerfulness and helpfulness. If
he had troubles, nobody knew it, and he was always
ready to help others. Among his neighbors he had
special friends, but no enemies. The deepest affection
of his heart centered in his home, and the wife of his
youth, who had been his companion for so many years,
was always his first thought.
Dad Jones was not rich or famous in the common
acceptation of those terms, but he was rich beyond
computation in the love and respect of his fellow men.
The funeral in the Methodist church, yesterday
afternoon was the most largely attended ever held in the
city. The services were conducted by the pastor, Rev.
Crumley, assisted by Rev. R. H. Love, pastor of the
Christian church, a personal friend of the deceased.
The casket and altar were banked with flowers, the
offerings of many hearts and hands.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH.
William Edward Jones was born March 31, 1832,
in Baltimore, Maryland; was married to Melvina
Veach, Daughter of Judge Wm. P. Veach of New
Castle, Delaware, at Chester, Pennsylvania, July 22,
1866. To this union, two children were born--a
daughter who died in infancy, and a son, X. W. Jones,
now residing in Sherman, Texas.
He has been employed on public works the greater
part of his life. He was road master for the B. & O. and
Delaware & Lackawana railroads. In 1873 he had
charge of construction of a water reservoir in Druid
Hills Park, Baltimore, and in 1874 was head foreman
on the work of constructing a tunnel under the city. In
1882 3 (sic) he was superintendent of the National
152
Dredge company which enlarged the ship channel in the
Delaware river. In 1884 he came to Sherman, Texas, in
the employ of the Cotton Belt railroad, and later was
foreman of construction for the Electric Belt railroad at
the same place. At the opening of the Cherokee Strip
he came to Ponca City in the employ of the Wells Fargo
Express company, a position he held until he resigned it
last spring and set up the little refreshment stand which
he has conducted the past summer.
He has been an Odd Fellow ever since 1870, being
a member of Excelsior Lodge No. 62 of Lawrence,
Kansas. He was also a member of G.A.R. Post of this
city, having served in the Quartermaster's department
during the civil war. The Odd Fellows and Rebekah
lodges and the G. A. R. and W. R. C. attended the
funeral services, marching from the house to the
church.
Besides the wife and son, deceased has one brother
living, Thomas Jones of Westminister, Maryland.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 15 November1906
Death of Wm. Stanford. -- Wm. Thomas Stanford
died at his home in Newkirk, Friday, November 9,
1906, of dropsy, from which he had been suffering for
the past eight months.
The remains were laid to rest in the Newkirk
cemetery Sunday, Nov. 11, 1906 followed by a large
procession of friends and relatives. The funeral
services were in charge of the Fraternal Order of Eagles
and the Red Men, of which he was a member and the
sermon preached by Rev. J. J. H. Reedy of the
Episcopal church. A number of Eagles were present
from Ponca City, Arkansas City, Kaw City, Tonkawa
and Blackwell.
Deceased was born in Newton county, Missouri,
November 14, 1860. He was married to Miss Flora
Pattison at Winfield, Kansas, July 19, 1888, and moved
to Newkirk in 1893, where he has resided ever since.
He leaves a wife, two brothers and three sisters to
mourn his loss.
Mister Stanford, who was know throughout Kansas
and Oklahoma as "Oklahoma Bill," has a host of friends
in Ponca City who will extend to his bereaved wife
their sincere heartfelt sympathy in this her hour of grief.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 November 1906
James N. Gravette Dead. -- James N. Gravette, an old
citizen and an old soldier, died at his home on north
Eight street at 12:30 today. He has been a great sufferer
from rheumatism for the last two years or more, being
confined to his bed for the last year. The funeral will
be from the home at 11 o'clock a.m., Friday. [An
obituary appears in the 22 November 1906 issue of the
Democrat and the 24 November 1906 issue of the
Courier.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 November 1906
SUDDEN DEATH OF B. S. BARNES. -- Postmaster
B. S. Barnes died suddenly at his home in this city at
3:30 o'clock this afternoon. He had been unwell for
several days and had not been in the office since last
Thursday evening, but his illness was not considered
serious, and he was supposed to be nearly recovered. In
fact, he was so well at three o'clock that he called up
one of the delivery wagons from his son's grocery, and
said he would ride down to the office. He was all ready
to come down town, when he suddenly collapsed and
died almost immediately. The cause of death is
supposed to be heart failure. This sudden death of one
of our most prominent citizens is a great shock to the
entire community. No arrangements have yet been
made for the funeral.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 November 1906
Burton S. Barnes. At the age of 62 years, Burton S.
Barnes, Ponca City's most prominent and widely
known citizen, departed this life at 3:30 o'clock on the
afternoon of Wednesday, November 21, 1906.
His had been an active and useful life, and the days
of his usefulness were not cut short by lingering illness
or enfeebled mind, but in the full possession of his
mental faculties and not much less of his physical
strength, he was called hence for continued activities in
other spheres. Though it seems untimely to sorrowing
friends, we know it was a death which he looked
forward to when it should come with tranquillity and
satisfaction; the summons to another life without the
long and wearisome journey through the valley and
shadow of death, which is the less fortunate lot of so
great a number of the sons of men.
For five years the writer has known B. S. Barnes
personally and intimately and has formed an estimate of
his character which to our mind seems correct in the
main, though lacking in the details which a longer
acquaintance would suggest.
The first characteristic of his personality to impress
itself upon the mind of a new acquaintance was his
apparently tireless activity.
Endowed with a
remarkable clear insight of the deeper workings of
human nature, he was always quick to understand a
proposition and prompt to act. He was naturally a
leader of men and to his credit it can be truthfully said
that the weight of his influence was always cast on the
side of what he believed to be right and fairness and
justice.
No man was better known to the people of Ponca
City, and every public and private enterprise calculated
to benefit the city has had the benefit of his advice and
encouragement. In fact, he might justly be called the
father of Ponca City, as it was through his efforts that
the original company was organized and largely
through his efforts that the scales finally turned in favor
of Ponca City in the hard fought battle for supremacy
between this and the then rival town of Cross, a mile
north. This contest caused some bitter feeling which
lasted into the years following, but which later softened
into pleasant reminiscences of the early days.
The next characteristic that impressed itself upon
an acquaintance was his strict adherence to the higher
ideals of life. He was a strictly moral man and was
always found advocating a better citizenship and a more
profound regard for the sacredness of the home life.
His home and family were always first in his thoughts,
and all the time he could spare outside of business
hours was spent at his own fireside. In the last few
years his two little grandchildren have been the joy of
his life, and he always appeared at his best when they
were with him.
A late photograph shows the
grandfather in his chair with a little fellow on either
side of him, and his face bears a smile of supreme
content.
He was a man of studious habits having read most
of the current literature and history of his times, and as
a conversationalist he was always entertaining,
interesting and instructive. In politics he was regarded
as a partisan of the strictest sect, but was always fair
and even liberal in his views and preferred to win by
appealing to the reason rather than the passions. As a
public speaker, he had few equals in this country, and
his services were always in demand during political
campaigns.
There are many more things the writer would like
to say regarding this fine citizen, but time, which is
always too short in a daily newspaper office, prevents.
He has run his course, he has fought a good fight; he
has kept the faith; and now he rests from his labors.
May the peace which passeth understanding be his, and
the benediction of his love fall like a healing balm upon
the sore hearts and bowed heads of the devoted wife
and grief-stricken household.
OBITUARY
Burton S. Barnes was born in Lapeer, Michigan,
Sept. 19, 1844; died in Ponca City, Oklahoma, Nov. 21,
1906, being 62 years of age.
he was a graduate of Ann Arbor University. In
March, 1868, he was united in marriage in Tecumseh,
Michigan, to Miss Louise Gilbert who survives him.
Three children were born of this marriage--Gilbert B.
Barnes of Kansas City, Missouri, Mrs. Jeanette Baker
and Louis S. Barnes, both residing in Ponca City.
For 22 years he was engaged in the furniture
business in Adrian, Michigan, both as a manufacturer
and dealer, coming from there to Oklahoma at the
opening of the Cherokee Strip. He was the moving
spirit of the company which located the townsite of
Ponca City and with others established the first bank in
the city. On the death of F. W. Hoyt in 1901, he was
appointed postmaster, which position he held at the
time of his death.
153
from the Ponca City Democrat, 22 November 1906
A PIONEER DEAD. B. S. Barnes Succumbs to Heart
Failure. -- Postmaster B. S. Barnes died at his home in
Ponca City yesterday, after an illness of six days. He
had been feeling badly for some time, but his condition
had not been considered serious, and it was while
preparing to come to the post office yesterday morning
that he passed away.
He was one of the first men to come to Ponca City
at the opening of the Cherokee strip, in fact he laid out
the site on which Ponca now stands. he served the city
for several years as mayor and has been one of the most
active workers in its upbuilding, proving himself at all
time to be a most sturdy citizen.
The passing of B. S. Barnes marks the removal
from our midst of one of the strongest factors in the
progress of our city, as he figured prominently in every
move for the benefit of the community at large, and to
his untiring efforts is largely due the present prosperity
now enjoyed by this community, for it was he who held
out against the strong odds for a city here when the
majority favored Cross. The Democrat extends its
heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved ones in their hour of
trouble.
Deceased was born in Adrian, Michigan, and was
62 years old. He is survived by a wife and three
children: G. B. Barnes of Kansas City, Louis S. Barnes
of Ponca City, and Mrs. C. B. Baker of Pawnee.
The funeral will be held tomorrow at 3 p. m. from
the family residence and interment will be made in the
I.O.O.F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 22 November 1906
A Sad Death. -- J. N. Gravette, one of the old time
citizens of Ponca City, who for the past three years has
been suffering with tuberculosis of the hips, died at his
home on north Eight street yesterday afternoon.
Deceased has been a resident of Ponca City for the
past eight years, coming here with his family from
Kansas. He was a carpenter by trade and followed that
business until his illness. A sad feature in connection
with the death is that his daughter, May Gravette, is
suffering with smallpox and the home is under
quarantine and the family being practically isolated
from the consolation of friends.
By the death of Mr. Gravette Ponca City is
deprived of another good citizen and a family is robbed
of a kind father. God has seen fit in His wisdom to
remove him from our midst to commence his usefulness
in another sphere. The Democrat extends to the
sorrowing family a deep feeling of condolence in this
hour of affliction.
Deceased was 57 years old and was born in
Winchester, Clark county, Kentucky. He is survived by
a wife and nine children to mourn his loss.
The funeral will be held from the family residence
at 11 o'clock and interment made in the I.O.O.F.
cemetery.
154
from the Ponca City Democrat, 22 November 1906
Joe Sivyer Dead. -- Word was received here from El
Paso, Texas, late Tuesday to the effect that Joe Sivyer
had died at that place of tuberculosis.
Deceased has been in poor health for the past year
and during that time has visited almost every health
resort with the hope of regaining his strength. He
returned home recently from California; but with little
improvement in his condition. As a last resort he went
to El Paso, and it was while at that place he succumbed
to that dread disease.
No arrangements have been made for the funeral as
yet, but it is thought that he will be buried here.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 24 November 1906
Obituary. -- James Nelson Gravette was born in
Manchester, Clark County, Kentucky, October 16,
1848; died in Ponca City, Oklahoma, November 21
1906. January 31, 1867, he was united in marriage to
Miss Sarah Rippey, who, with children born of the
union,, survives him. While living in Kentucky he was
engaged in farming. His wife's health failing, he moved
to Larned, Kansas, in 1885, and engaged in the boot
and shoe business. Later removed to Elk City and
engaged in the livery business. At the opening of the
Cherokee Strip he came to Newkirk, Oklahoma, and
eight years ago to Ponca City, where he resided
continuously until his death. He was a sufferer from
tuberculosis of the hip for five years, the last two of
which he was confined to his bed.
He leaves a wife and eight children, all of whom
were present at the funeral except one daughter, Mrs.
Ruth Soulter of Oswego, Kansas. Those present at the
funeral were B. A. Gravette of Hutchinson, Kansas;
Mrs. Lula Saylor of Oklahoma City, R. C., J. A.,
Charles, Mae and Alta of this city.
The funeral was from the home on north Eight
street at 11 o'clock a.m. Friday, November 23, and was
attended by many of the old friends and neighbors of
the family. Interment was made in the I.O.O.F.
cemetery near this city.
Jim Gravette, as he was familiarly known, will be
remembered kindly by many friends here and
elsewhere. He was an honest and industrious man,
working at the carpenter trade here until his health
failed. Always cheerful and friendly he made friends,
and to the needy and helpless he was always generous,
even beyond his means. The suffering he endured for
the last two yes was excruciating, and death came as a
welcome relief from pain.
The faithful wife and children have his sympathy
of the entire community in their sorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 24 November 1906
The Barnes Funeral. -- The funeral services for the late
B. S. Barnes were held at the Presbyterian church at 10
a. m. today, having been postponed from 2:30 yesterday
to await the arrival of the son from Kansas City.
Gilbert B. Barnes, the son, and Harry Baker brother of
Claude Baker, arrived last night. The latter is located at
South McAlester.
The Presbyterian church was
crowded and many stood in the aisles and at the doors.
The altar and the casket were banked with white
chrysanthemums. The service was the finest we have
ever heard in the city. The sermon by Rev. D. Luther
Edwards from St. John 10:10 was such as our departed
friend himself might have rejoiced to hear, and the
singing by the choir was beautiful beyond description.
The pallbearer were R. E. Morrison, H. C. R. Brodboll,
F. D. Foutz, Geo. H. Brett, W. T. Chase and J. S.
Hutchins, old friends of the family. The services at the
grave were beautiful and impressive.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 26 November 1906
The funeral of Joe Sivyer will be held from the
Catholic church at 10 A. M. tomorrow, and burial will
be made in the Catholic cemetery. The body is
expected to arrive from El Paso, Texas, tonight.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 28 November 1906
Anson Andres, aged 19 years died at the family
home in Cross at 5 o'clock this morning, of typhoid
fever. The funeral will be from the home at 11 a. m.
tomorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 24 November 1906
The funeral of Joe Sivyer was held from the Catholic
church at 10 a.m. yesterday, services conducted by
Father Sevens. The funeral was largely attended and
the services beautiful and impressive.
Mrs. Hain, mother of C. F. Hain of this city died at
the home of her son-in-law, Chas. Haivilin, six miles
northwest of town, at 5 o’clock yesterday afternoon.
Short services will be held at the home and the body
will be taken to Winterset, Iowa, for burial
accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Hain and Mr. and Mrs.
Haivilin. [Another spelling of the name, Havilin is
printed in a resolution of sympathy printed in the 13
December issue of the Courier. Correct spelling could
not be confirmed.]
from the Ponca City Democrat. 29 November 1906
Mrs. Hain, mother of Chas. F. Hain of south fifth
street, died at the residence of her son-in-law, Chas.
Havilin, six miles northeast of town, at five o'clock
Tuesday morning.
The remains were taken to
Winterset, Iowa, for burial, accompanied by Mr. and
Mr. Hain and Mr. and Mrs. Havilin.
from the Ponca City Democrat. 29 November 1906
Died. - Wednesday morning at the residence of his
parents in Cross, of typhoid fever, Anson Andrew,
aged 19 years. The funeral was held at 10 o'clock this
morning with interment in the I.O.O.F. cemetery.
Deceased was a member of the burial association at
Pawnee. We extend our sympathy to the grief stricken
family.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 30 November 1906
The infant son of Col. and Mrs. R. M. Bressie
died at the home in Bressie last Wednesday and was
buried yesterday. The family has the sympathy of a
large circle of friends in the affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 4 December 1906
Obituary. -- Ella Wikoff Bolt was born near Griswold,
Pottawatomie county, Iowa, January 19, 1884; died
November 26, 1906, at the age of 22 years, 10 months
and 7 days. She united with the Baptist church in
Ponca City in August, 1903, and remained a member of
that church until her death. July 8, 1906, she was
united in marriage to Jesse W. Bolt. She leaves to
mourn her loss of loving husband, a father, a mother,
one sister and one brother.
The body was brought here from Denver and
funeral services were held at the Christian church in
this city on Friday, Nov. 30, conducted by Rev. R. H.
Love, pastor of the church. The funeral was attended
by many of the sympathizing friends of the family and
interment was made in the I.O.O.F. cemetery. [An
almost idenical obituary also appears in the 27
December issue of the Ponca City Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 8 December 1906
Suicide of Tom Rogers. -- News comes to town today
that T. J. Rogers, one of the best known and most
enterprising citizens of the Osage country, committed
suicide at Pawhuska last night by shooting himself in
the head with a revolver. It is stated that Mr. Rogers
had been gambling heavily, had lost a considerable
sum, drew a check for the amount and then wrote a
letter to the bank stopping payment on the check. This
tragedy casts a shadow of gloom over the entire
community, where Tom Rogers was known as one of
the big hearted, kindliest men that ever lived on the
earth.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 11 December 1906
obituary. -- Thomas J. Olston, son of Thomas B.
Olston, died at the family home in the Wylde addition,
this city, at 11:30 a.m. today of consumption. He was
born in Mason City, Illinois, August 27, 1875. The
funeral services will be held at the home at 2 o'clock
p.m. tomorrow, conducted by Rev. R. H. Love, pastor
of the Christian church, burial in I.O.O.F. cemetery.
Deceased leaves a father, stepmother, brother and two
sisters to mourn his untimely death.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 13 December 1906
Resolutions. -- Adopted by Queen City Camp R. N. A.,
No. 2377, Dec. 12 1906.
It is with feelings of deep sorrow that we learn of the
death of Mrs. Dorothy Hain, mother of our beloved
155
sister, Mrs. Heavilin, and to the bereaved sister we
extend sincere sympathy. Only those who have "passed
under the rod" can know the sorrow of her loving
daughter's heart. May she find solace and comfort in
the promise, "He doeth all things well."
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent
our sister, a copy spread on the records of our Camp,
and published in the city daily paper. Ida M. Ruby,
Carrie McLalin, Annie Allenberg, Com.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 13 December 1906
Sad Accident. -- At about five o'clock yesterday
afternoon, the eight year old son of J. M. VanWinkle,
a prominent farmer living six miles northwest of town,
fell under the wheels of a loaded wagon and was so
badly crushed that he died a few minutes later. The boy
had just come home from school and was playing about
the place. He attempted to climb on a wagon loaded
with 60 bushels of shelled corn, which was being driven
to the granary, when he missed his foothold and fell
under the wheels. It is one of the saddest accidents that
ever happened in this locality, and parents who are
among our best known and most highly respected
people, have the sympathy of the entire community in
the calamity that has befallen them.
The funeral was held from the home at 2:30 this
afternoon. [Child's name was W. Jessie VanWinkle, b.
1898 - d. 1906, and he remains are in the Ponca City
I.O.O.F. Mausoleum along with other members of the
his family.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 26 December 1906
HARD FALL CAUSES DEATH. John H. Barnes the
Victim of Fatal Accident. WAS RESIDENT OF
CROSS. Had Lived There Only a Short Time. Another
Death Occurs on South First Street, the Victim being
August Kipkin, an Aged German. -- John H. Barnes,
who recently came here from Iowa, fell on the stone
walk in front of Bryan's saloon and fractured his skull,
from the effects of which he died before he could be
removed to his home in Cross.
The deceased was a brother of Mrs. McDaniels at
Cross and came here about three months ago. He was
59 years of age. The funeral will be held from their
home in Cross Thursday afternoon and interment will
be made in the I.O.O.F. cemetery. The deceased leaves
a wife, sister and other relatives to mourn his loss.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 26 December 1906
August Kipkin, an aged German, died Sunday
afternoon at about 4 o'clock at the Bart Hoop's feed
yard on south First street. He was in seemingly good
health and was sitting on a box talking with a crowd of
men, when he keeled over and was placed on the bed in
the camp house by his companions and died soon
hereafter. So far as known the deceased had no
relatives in this country. Burial from the undertaking
rooms of J. M. Hayden on Monday. The deceased was
156
known as "Dutch Gus" and was quite well known by
the habitues of bar rooms, where he spent most of his
time, but nothing is known of any relatives in this
country or Germany.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier. 27 December 1906
John H. Barnes of Cross, died suddenly Tuesday
evening while on his way home from this city. He was
in a wagon with another man when he fell backward
and soon expired, the cause being concussion of the
brain. Deceased was 59 years old and came here
several months ago from Iowa. He was a member of
the local burial association. Funeral services were held
from the residence at 2 p.m. today, with interment in
Odd Fellows cemetery. The bereaved wife and family
have the sympathy of all their friends and acquaintances
in their affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 January 1907
Obituary. -- John H. Barnes died on December 25,
1905, aged 59 years and five months. He was born in
Decatur county, Illinois, on July 19, 1847, and resided
there until about 1866 when he removed to Wichita,
Kansas, where he was married to Mrs. Amanda Davis.
From Wichita he went to Muscatine, Iowa, where he
lived for thirty years. One year ago he came to Ponca
City, where he lived at the time of his death. He leaves,
besides a sorrowing wife, one brother and four sisters:
James R. Barnes of Muncie, Indiana, Mrs. A. J. Murray
of Seneca, Kansas; Mrs. D. V. Culp, of Burton,
Oklahoma; Mrs. C. Wheeler of Muscatine, Iowa; Mrs.
S. L. Culp, of Ponca City, Oklahoma; also two stepchildren, Mrs. H. Frack of Davenport, Iowa, and J.
Davis of Boynton, Oklahoma. The funeral was held at
his late home and was attended by a number of relatives
and friends. The services were conducted by Rev.
Halum, and arrangements were in charge of the
National co-operative Burial Association, of which
deceased was a member.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 January 1907
John Gibson died at his home in the east part of
the city, known as "Stringtown" at 12 o'clock, noon,
yesterday, of stomach trouble, aged 61 years. The
funeral was held from the Methodist church at 2 p.m.
today, services conducted by the pastor, Rev. Crumley.
Interment in the I.O.O.F. cemetery. Deceased was one
of the first settlers of this locality, coming here at the
opening of the country to settlement, and was a good
citizen. He leaves a wife, but no children.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 January 1907
PROMINENT MAN DEAD. J. H. Shehl Dies at the
Home of His Son in Pottawatomie County, Kansas. -The Westmoreland, Kansas, Recorder of January 3, has
the following obituary of J. H. Shehl, brother of our
townsman and uncle of Mrs. Geo. Dehl:
Ex-Sheriff J. H. Shehl died Monday morning at
the home of his son, J. S. Shehl, northwest of
Westmoreland. Two or three months ago, Mr. Shehl,
who was broken down in health from a complication of
diseases, felt that he would not live much longer and
telling his folks that he preferred to die in Pottawatomie
county, Kansas, came up to the home of his son, Jas. S.
His illness became of a more serious character soon
after his arrival and for some weeks he and his relatives
and friends realized that the end was comparatively
near. He was buried yesterday morning in the Spring
Creek cemetery near where he spent the greater portion
of his active business life.
Mr. Shehl was born July 7, 1832, at Monmouth,
Illinois, In 1855, he married Ethelda Schutes, who died
some twenty-five years ago. He came to Kansas in
1861 and settled upon Spring creek. His home was
open at all times to friend or traveler, or to anyone that
wanted entertainment there. If he had but a single sack
of flour, he would cheerfully divide it with a needy
neighbor. He was one of the most generous men in the
whole county.
In 1873, Mr. Shehl was elected to the legislature,
from what was then the 14th district. His opponent in
the election was James Shannon. Mr. Shehl received
428 votes and Mr. Shannon 384. While completing his
term as representative, he was nominated by the
republicans in 1875 for sheriff and was elected over D.
C. McComas, receiving 708 to 473 for his opponent.
He was renominated in 1877 and re-elected, receiving
986 votes. His opponent, Robert E. Cox, received 836.
Some three or four years after the death of his wife,
he married on December 23, 1894, Mrs. Teresa Price of
Wamego. About fourteen years ago, Mr. Shehl moved
with his family to Payne county, Oklahoma, where he
afterward resided. Mr. Shehl was the father of eleven
children: Martha, Winfield S., Mary, John and Merritt
are dead. The following, survive him: George, Los
Angeles, California; Henry, Oklahoma; James S.,
Westmoreland; Mrs. Fannie Schmittgen, California;
William, Indian Territory; and Mrs. Celia Gardner,
Oklahoma.
The relatives from a distance attending the funeral
were the deceased's wife from Oklahoma, Mrs.
Schmittgen from California and Mr. and Mrs. Henry
Shehl of Oklahoma. The two first named were assisting
in caring for the deceased since he came to this county.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 January 1907
Resolutions. Whereas, It has pleased the all wise God
in his infinite wisdom to remove from this earthly
sphere the aged father of our worthy Brother, Fred
Raynor, Therefore, be it
Resolved, That the officers and members of Ponca
Lodge No. 18, I.O.O.F., tender Brother Raynor their
heartfelt sympathy and consolation in this sad hour of
affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 January 1907
JOHN FLORER DEAD. The Well Known Indian
Trader Dies at Bartlesville. -- Yesterday afternoon Dr.
F. D. Sparkes received a telegram from Mort Stillwell,
announcing the death of Col. John N. Florer, which
occurred at Bartlesville that day. The funeral will be
held Sunday afternoon at Bartlesville, I. T., and
interment will be at Lawrence, Kansas, the following
Monday.
Col. Florer was one of the best known men of the
territory. He was well known in Ponca city, and his
many friends here will regret to learn of his death.
He was one of the pioneer Indian traders of the
Osage country and accumulated much wealth in that
way. Of late years he has been interested in the oil
business in Osage country, and was a member of the
company which has a lease on the reservation.
He has been in bad health for a long time, his
trouble seeming to be a general breaking down. He
leaves only one immediate relative, his daughter, Mrs.
Stillwell. His wife died three years ago and his son one
year ago.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 January 1907
SOMETHING OF FLORER. Was a Veteran of the
Civil War and Mason of High Degree. -- Col. John N.
Florer, who died Thursday at the home of his nephew,
Mortimer F. Stillwell, was a veteran of the Civil war
and a Mason of high degree. He was sixty-three years
of age.
He was a trader at Gray Horse with the Osages for
a third of a century, coming with them from Kansas in
1872. He obtained of the Osage council a blanket oil
lease which resulted in the development of the oil
industry there.
John N. Florer was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, April
19, 1844. He entered a printing office to learn that
trade, when with the outbreak of the war, he enlisted in
the Seventh Ohio cavalry. After the war, he located at
Lawrence, Kansas, where he clerked in a clothing store
and afterward conducted a hotel. With the removal of
the Osage Indians to their present reservation, he
accompanied them in the spring of 1872. To the
Osages he was "Johnny Shinkah," "Johnny
Littletrader," and their friend, counselor, and guide for
thirty years. His store at Gray Horse was for that period
the chief trading point in the reservation. He handled
cattle at the same time, making and losing fortunes. He
had observed the surface indications of oil in the Osage
reservation and heard from the Indians tales of the
curative properties of the wells. This induced him to
make efforts to interest capital, which were not
successful, however, until 1896, when se secured a
lease of Edwin B. Foster, in which he retained an
interest and amassed a large fortune. He was a
157
candidate for the republican nomination for delegate to
the constitutional convention from the Osage district
and was defeated by Joe Bartles.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 January 1907
Death of Wm. Howard Phelps. -- News of the death of
Wm. Howard Phelps, which occurred at his home near
Autwine in this county, last Sunday morning, was
received here with profound sorrow. Mr. Phelps was
well known in this city, and held in high esteem by our
people. The following obituary is taken from the
Blackwell News of Monday, 14th:
Died, Sunday, Jan 13, 1907, at 5 a.m., Wm.
Howard Phelps, at his residence near Autwine, after a
short illness as the result of typhoid pneumonia. Mr.
Phelps was one of the original settlers of the Cherokee
strip having come from Nebraska and made the run at
the opening on Sept. 16, 1893. The opening gun was
fired at 12 o'clock noon of that memorable day, and at
12:55 p.m., Mr. Phelps had located his claim on the
banks of the beautiful Chikaskia, about five miles down
the river from the present location of Blackwell. Here
for nearly fourteen years he has made a success of
agriculture and developed one of the finest farm homes
in this section, which he poetically named
"Shadynook." Here he has reared and educated his
family, consisting of his wife and four children, all
grown, namely: Walter, Ruth, Laura, and Dorothy,
who are left to mourn the loss of their beloved husband
and father, who was one of the kindest and best of men.
Mr. Phelps was well known throughout the country and
territory, having been for four years chairman of
Democratic central committee of this county. He was
one of the leading farmers of the territory and acquired
considerable fame and success in the breeding of corn,
gathering superior crops and winning many prizes at
corn exhibitions.
Although of frail physique, Mr. Phelps had fairly
good health, which, coupled with energy, a kindly
disposition, and good education, made him a very
companionable man, whose friends were as numerous
as his acquaintances, and all of whom deeply regret the
sudden ending of a life of great usefulness. [This same
obituary appears in the 17 January 1907 edition of the
Ponca City Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 January 1907
Al Hatten received a telegram today informing him
of the death of his sister Melissa, at the family home in
Lockwood, Missouri, which occurred this morning.
She was about 28 years of age. Mr. Hatten and his
sister, Mrs. Bert Rice leave tonight to attend the funeral.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 January 1907
Mrs. Hickman Dead. -- Mrs. Susan Hickman
formerly of this city and kindly remembered here by
many friends, died at the family home near Gate,
Oklahoma, on Thursday, January 3, 1907, aged 50
158
years. The following obituary of the deceased appeared
in the Englewood, Kansas, Homebuilder of last week:
Arminta Susan Hickman, wife of John W. Hickman,
was born in Hart county, Kentucky, July 22, 1856.
Departed this life on the morning of January 3, 1907,
aged 50 years, months and 11 days.
At the tender age of 17 years she was happily
converted, and gave herself to the service of the Baptist
church for 33 years.
Deceased was the mother of six children, four sons
and two daughters of whom two sons and one daughter
have gone on before her. There remain to mourn her
loss, her husband, two sons, Clarence and Minor, and
one daughter Mabel.
The funeral services were held at the home four
miles south of Gate, O. T. at 11 a.m., January 4,
conducted by Rev. F. L. Logston of Englewood; and
interment made in the Cline cemetery.
For several years she had been a sufferer of that
dreadful disease, consumption; and had many times
expressed herself as ready and willing to die and end
her misery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 January 1907
Obituary. -- The funeral of Miss Isabel Heinze, the
17 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Heinze of Ponca
City, formerly of Eagle Lake, Minnesota, took place
yesterday at the M. E. church.
The services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Crumley,
pastor. The church was beautifully decorated by the
members of the church of which the deceased was a
member. The sermon and the singing were a source of
comfort to the mourners, and the funeral was one of the
prettiest ever witnessed in the city.
The floral offerings were numerous and beautiful,
especially those given by the M. E. Sunday school, of
which deceased was a member, consisting of a wreath
and cross and many cut flowers. Each of the members
of the Sunday school dropped a carnation on the white
casket as they marched by to return to their seats.
The church was filled with friends of the deceased
and the sorrowing family.
The pallbearers were Alex Brenner, Dan Mead,
Will Decker, James Bumgartner, Tom Anstine, Ernest
Elliott, the six flower girls, dressed in white and
carrying white and pink flowers were Ruth Foster,
Virgie Giles, Effie Ravenscraft, Eula Foster, Eva
Decker, Grace Davison.
Deceased was also a member of the Triple-Tie
lodge, which order also remembered her by many cut
flowers, and the W. R. C. also contributed a beautiful
bouquet.
The remains were taken to the beautiful Odd
Fellows cemetery near the city. The grave was lined
with white and strewn with evergreens and flowers.
The family has the sympathy of many friends.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 31 January 1907
The little one-year-old baby of Mr. and Mrs. D. L.
Bragg of Cross, was drowned, Tuesday afternoon, in a
bucket of milk. The mother had just finished washing
the dinner dishes and stepped out on the porch to look
for her baby when she found it standing on its head in a
bucket of mild which had been left there. Dr. Panton
was sent for immediately, but the little one was beyond
all medical aid when he arrived. It is a sad affair and
the fond parents and family have the sincere sympathy
of the community in their bereavement. [L. E. Bragg, b.
7 January 1906 - d. 20 January 1907.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 31 January 1907
The Angel of Death. -- Floy Odessa, daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. J. F. Snyder and wife of George Wetzel died
at the Snyder home, Monday, January 28, from
childbirth. The funeral was held from the M. E. church
Wednesday afternoon, at 2 o'clock conducted by Rev.
Crumley, and the remains laid to rest in the I.O.O.F.
cemetery.
Deceased was born at Marion, Kansas, April 7,
1890 and was married to George Wetzel, in this city,
January 3, 1906. She joined the Christian church in
1904 and was a constant and faithful Christian.
The bereaved parents, husband, brothers and sisters
have the sympathy of their host of friends in their sad
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 31 January 1907
Obituary. -- [Edited for genealogical content.] We are
called upon to endure the loss of Wm. Howard Phelps,
who died of typhoid pneumonia at his home near
Autwine, Okla., January 13, 1907, at 4 o'clock a.m.,
aged 49 years, 8 months and 2 days.
The funeral services were conducted at the home
by Rev. Hunter, after which the remains were taken to
the Blackwell cemetery and laid to rest by members of
the Masonic lodge.
Mr. Phelps was born in Union county, Ohio, May
11, 1857, and was reared on a farm in Mason county,
Ill. In 1872, he commenced his business career by
accepting a responsible position in Hanover, Ill., where
he remained until 1878, when he removed to Furnas
county, Neb., taking up a homestead and timber claim
at that time near Beaver City. He was married to Miss
May Scott, Sept. 5, 1882. To them were born four
children, Walter, Ruth, Laura, and Dorothy, all of
whom survive him.
He was elected clerk of Furnas county in 1881 and
served two terms in that capacity.
The following beautiful tribute to Mr. Phelps was
written by his life long friend Mr. Will T. Ager, after
news of Mr. Phelps' death had been received at Beaver
City, (Nebraska), and published in the Beaver City
Times-Tribune of January 18, 1907: "Wm. Howard
Phelps was closely identified with the early settlement
of this section of Nebraska. His reputation was far
more than local in the pioneer days of Furnas county. It
was state wide. In business circles he was known as a
clear minded, conservative financier, with strong faith
in the future of this beautiful valley.
"In politics he was uncompromisingly committed
to that which he deemed to be for the best interests of
the community, state and nation, and his political record
is as clear and straightforward as his social life and
financial career was above criticism.
"Wm. Howard Phelps--the name is so familiar as to
be a part of the history of Furnas county. The
courthouse contains the records of his official acts,
when by a vote of the citizens he was called to serve,
and no cleaner record was ever made.
"Although disqualified by his natural physical
deformity from being eligible to receive the Mason
degrees, his intrinsic worth and value to the order was
recognized by the fraternity and by special dispensation
from the Grand Master of Nebraska, he was made a
Mason. This splendid tribute to his character was one
of his cherished memories, and the craft throughout the
world has never had occasion to regret the honor so
worthily bestowed."
"The keen intellect has ceased to exist. The form
that pain has racked with varying degree of intensity
since childhood is laid to rest, and our friend and
neighbor is a memory. The memory of the just is
blessed, and as we mingle our tears with those of his
stricken family, we can, with confidence, point to a
meeting beyond this transitory world.
Mr. Phelps left Nebraska at the opening of the
Cherokee strip, and made the race on horseback
securing a homestead upon which he has since resided,
and through the same untiring efforts that he exhibited
in his life in Nebraska, he has made a home for his
family that was a source of great satisfaction to him and
will be a great comfort to them.
Almost as soon as he had located on what has
become his beautiful "Shady Nook" farm, he
commenced to exert an influence in the organization of
the community, county and state. He organized the first
chartered county farmers institute, and took a deep
interest and prominent part in the initial organization of
the territorial board of agriculture, never failing to
attend each annual meeting and took a leading part. He
instituted, organized and was the continuous president
of the Oklahoma Corn Breeders and Growers
Association, was chairman of the Kay county
Democratic committee and an active and intelligent
farmer. Successful in his undertakings, a citizen in the
best sense of the word. The territory as well as his
neighbors will fell the absence of his kindly sympathy
and ripened judgment and never failing enthusiasm.
He consecrated himself to God at the age of fifteen
and his life is full of beautiful, of his abiding faith in his
redeemer.
159
Thus closes a life, the example of honesty,
integrity, industry and true Christian worth, of which it
was filled is worthy of emulation.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 February 1907
Frank Lambert's Father is Dead. -- The Sidney, Iowa,
Herald has the following account of the death of
McKinney Lambert, father of Register of Deeds T. P.
Lambert of this county (Kay), which occurred at his
home in Fremont county, Iowa, on 2nd day of this
month: [Content edited to genealogical data.]
The death of McKinney Lambert, which occurred at
his home two miles northwest of Percival on Saturday,
February 2, 1907, at 12 o'clock m. (sic), removes one of
the oldest citizens of Fremont county in point of
residence from scenes terrestrial and the community in
which he lived for over a half century.
Deceased was born January 3, 1829, in Carter
county, West Virginia, and there grew to manhood, and
when about 23 years of age he came with his parents to
Fremont county and settled at old Civil Bend, which
place has long ago lost its identification on the map, but
was near the Missouri river some two miles northwest
of Percival in Benton township. Here the Lamberts
began to build a home.
On April 22, 1852, the subject of this sketch was
united in marriage to Miss Lydia Blanchard, the oldest
child of Dr. I. D. Blanchard and wife who preceded the
Lamberts to Civil Bend. Eight children blessed this
union, seven of whom are living, their names being as
follows: Mrs. Maggie Townsend, of Chicago; Mrs.
Mary Peckham of Gladis, Albert Canada; D. S.
Lambert, of Lacy, Washington; C. W. Lambert of
Cody, Wyoming; T. P. Lambert, Newkirk Oklahoma;
E. K. Lambert, of Edna, Washington; E. B. Lambert of
Elmwood Nebraska.
His sickness was of short duration and only on last
Thursday did the malady take a serious turn from a
grippe to pneumonia and each hour after that saw the
patient sinking rapidly.
Mr. Lambert was a Methodist and one of the pillars
of the church at Percival and the organization there will
miss the advice of a safe counselor.
The funeral was held at the home on Monday,
February 4, at 1 o'clock p.m., the services being
conducted by his pastor, Rev. Joseph Stephen of
Thurman, in the presence of a large concourse of people
who assembled to pay a debt of gratitude to an honored
citizen, a loyal friend a kind neighbor. Interment was
made in the Blanchard cemetery, two miles southwest
of Percival.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 February 1907
A. J. Hurst, an old and well known citizen, died at
his home in the southeast part of the city last night of
dropsy. He leaves a large family of grown up sons and
daughters. The funeral will be held from the Baptist
160
church as 10:30 a.m. tomorrow and interment will be
made in I.O.O.F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 February 1907
Mrs. Norton's Father Dead. -- A telegram was received
today announcing the death, at his home in Waitsfield,
Vermont of Nathan Boice father of Mrs. J. B. Norton
of this city. Deceased was about 68 years of age, and
his death was sudden and unexpected, his daughter here
having received a letter only last Friday in which it was
stated that all the home folks were as well as usual. Mr.
and Mrs. Norton leave tonight for the old home in
Vermont for the funeral.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 February 1907
Old Settler Gone. -- James F. Cunningham one of the
first settlers of this county, coming here at the opening,
died at his home east of the city yesterday afternoon.
The funeral will be held from the Baptist church in this
city at 2 o'clock p.m. tomorrow, provided friends who
have been telegraphed for arrive in time--if not the
services will be postponed to a later date.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 February 1907
The funeral of Andrew J. Hurst was held from the
Baptist church at 10 o'clock a.m. today, Rev. L. O.
Hudson, pastor of the church, conducting the services.
Mr. Hurst was an old soldier and six comrades acted as
pallbearers at the funeral. We hope to have an obituary
notice of this good citizen for publication in a later
issue of the paper.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 February 1907
Death of Joe Green. -- Joe Green, a former well known
citizen of this place, died at his home in Apache,
Oklahoma, last Sunday morning of paralysis. funeral
services were held and interment was made at Apache.
Deceased leaves a wife, three sons--Roy Farrell, Harry
and Otto; two daughters--Mrs. Lobdell and Grace; two
brothers--Hiram Green of Chicago and E. R. Green of
Tonkawa; one sister, Mrs. Thomas of Iowa.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 February 1907
Obituary. -- James Ferre Cunningham was born in
Fairfield, Wayne county, Illinois, April 3, 1867. died at
his home near Ponca City, Oklahoma, February 10,
1907.
He came west about twenty years ago and settled in
Kansas. Thirteen years ago, at the opening of this
country to settlement, he came here where he has since
resided. He has been in poor health about six years and
a year ago was stricken with paralysis, from which he
never recovered.
He was the son of J. B. and Elanor Cunningham,
both of whom have crossed the river before him. Two
brothers--John T. Cunningham of Fairfield, Illinois, and
Wm. F. Cunningham of Ponca City; and one sister--
Mrs. Celia A. Eastman of Grenola, Kansas, mourn his
departure.
Deceased joined the Free Will Baptist church when
fourteen years of age, and has lived an upright and
honest life.
Funeral services were held at the Baptist church in
this city on Tuesday February 12, conducted by the
pastor, Rev. Hudson, and Interment was made in the
I.O.O.F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 14 February 1907
A. J. Hurst died suddenly last Saturday evening of
dropsy. The funeral was conducted at the Baptist
church Tuesday morning by Rev. Hudson, and the
burial was at the Odd Fellows cemetery. Deceased
leaves six children to mourn his loss. He was born in
Nashville, Tenn., and served in the civil war. He will
be missed by those who loved him.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 February 1907
NEWKIRK NEWS.
Items of Interest from the
Columns of the Republican News Journal -- The little
daughter, Elsa Elizabeth, of Henry Brown, who lives
across the river, ate twenty or more cough tablets,
Saturday, which caused death. The tablets contained
one grain of ascetanlid and one grain of Quinine.
Efforts to save the little girl's life were futile. The
funeral occurred Monday at the burying ground near the
Santa Fe Lake.
Mrs. H. H. Miller received word last week of the
death of her grandfather, Rev. George W. Wilson, at
Findlay, Ohio. Mr. Wilson only a few days of being 93
years of age. He was one of the most prominent
preachers in his denomination, the Church of God, and
an author and poet of considerable note. He was a man
of high educational qualifications, attained by his own
unaided efforts.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 February 1907
We learn that A. J. Hurst, notice of whose death
appeared in this paper a few days ago, was a member of
Co. I, Twenty-third Tennessee Infantry, and served
three years in the Union army, being honorable
discharged on account of the expiration of his term of
enlistment.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 February 1907
Nellie, the three-year-old daughter of T. W. Acton
and wife, died at the family home six miles northeast of
town at 7 o'clock a.m., yesterday of pneumonia. The
funeral was held from the Longwood Baptist church at
2 o'clock p.m. today, Rev. L. O. Hudson conducting the
services.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 February 1907
The body of Topsy, the Ponca Indian, who was
drowned in the Chikaskia river five weeks ago, was
found last Sunday, about three-quarters of mile down
the river from where he was attempting to ford. The
body had lodged on a sapling in water about three feet
deep, and was badly decomposed. Mr. Gadberry, who
lives on Frank Roy's place made the discovery, and at
once notified Agent Brewer and Deputy Sheriff Mead,
who viewed the body, and ordered it removed for
burial.--Tonkawa News
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 March 1907
Obituary. -- The following obituary of Nathan Boyce,
father of Mrs. J. B. Norton of this city, is taken from the
Montpelier, Vermont, Journal:
Nathan Boyce, who died at his home in
Waitsfield, Feb. 11, 1907, was born in Fayston, April
30, 1836, the son of Artemus and Lucinda (McCloud)
Boyce. In his second year his mother died, and he, with
his elder brother, was left in the care of an aunt, who
also died a few years later.
He lived in Waitsfield until he was twenty-three
years of age. January 29, 1860, he married S. Minerva,
daughter of Ziba W. Boyce, who a generation ago was
one of the most prominent men of affairs in the
community, often jocosely termed "the wisdom of
North Fayston."
To them were born five children, Ziba W., who
died April 13, 1883; Genie L, wife of J. B. Norton, of
Ponca City, Oklahoma; Florence Josephine, wife of J.
D. Davis of Witsfield; N. LeRoy of Lapark, Pa., and
Maude B., of Waitsfield.
For 25 years he carried on a successful business in
Fayston. He held many town offices, and represented
the town in the legislature of 1880. In 1887 he moved
to his farm in Waitsfield where he built an entirely new
and commodious set of farm buildings, and was
reckoned as one of the most successful farmers in town.
In 1895, he, in company with J. B. Norton, bought out
the firms of L. R. Joslin and O. G. Eaton, and built the
block where they conducted a successful mercantile
business until the block was burned in 1902.
Continued ill health made it imperative that he
should retire from business, and in 1905 he removed his
family to the house he had purchased in the village and
where he recently passed away.
He was a strenuous business man, an efficient
financier, but whatever he did, whether it was the
execution of a public office or a private business
transaction, he was always straightforward, reliable and
sincere.
"The conscience of him testing every
stroke
To make his deed the measure of a
man."
He loved the refined and beautiful in Nature and
literature, and delighted in the education of his children
and the improvement of his home. The home ties were
very [at this point, the paper is torn, and the rest of the
obituary is missing.]
161
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 March 1907
YOUNG MAN MEETS DEATH. Accident Occurred
at Bliss Sunday Morning. HEAD CRUSHED BY
DOOR. James Taylor Meets Horrible Death Just as He
Reaches Destination--was from Nebraska and Intended
to Locate in Noble County. -- An accident which
resulted in the instant death of James Taylor occurred
at Bliss yesterday morning at 1 o'clock while a Santa Fe
freight train was in the yards switching. His head was
crushed by the door of a car in a horrible manner and
death was instantaneous, the young man probably never
realizing what hit him.
As near as can be ascertained the facts are about as
follows: James Taylor was in charge of an emigrant car
which had come from Diller, Nebraska. When the car
arrived at Bliss, its destination, one of the trainmen
awoke Taylor, who was sleeping in the car, to inquire
where he wanted his car located. Taylor opened the
door and put his head out to make reply, when the car
bumped into another car on the siding with such force
as to throw the door of Taylor's car shut with terrific
force. Taylor's head was caught between the door and
the side of the car, breaking the skull and causing
concussion of the brain. In the car with Taylor was a
younger brother.
James Taylor was a son of Chas. Taylor, formerly
of Diller, Nebraska. The family has purchased a farm
three miles south of Bliss and were on their way to take
possession when the accident occurred. The young
man was 22 years old and leaves a father, mother, three
sisters and two brothers.
The funeral will be held at the Bliss school house
Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock and interment will
be made in the Ponca City cemetery. The services will
be conducted by a Dunkard minister from Guthrie, the
family being of that faith.
The family of Chas. Taylor has been prominent
residents of Diller, Nebraska, for a good many years.
The unfortunate death of their oldest son on the eve of
taking up their residence in a new home is particularly
pathetic. [James E, Taylor, b. 30 April 1889 - d. 10
March 1907.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 11 March 1907
KILLED BY BULLET. -- Prominent Kaw City Man
Meets Death While fighting fire. -- Kaw City, March
11. -- while fighting a fire in the residence S. G.
Sutterlin, in this city early yesterday morning, Charles
Yeoman, chief of the fire department of Kaw City, was
struck and instantly killed by a bullet from a rifle which
exploded within the burning building.
Midst the crackling of the flames, and the noises
and excitement incident to the fire the explosion of the
rifle was scarcely heard by those at the scene.
The first intimation given of Yeoman's death was
when he fell to the ground. Friends ran to his side
when he did not again rise and it was found that he was
dead, and that a rifle bullet had penetrated his body.
162
The circumstances was soon afterwards explained when
it was made known that the loaded rifle was in the
building, and that a number of persons had heard the
slight sound of its explosion above the noise of the fire.
Yeoman was the junior member of a firm of
hardware merchants of this city, and was well and
favorably known to a large number of friends. His
body was taken to his former home at Kingman,
Kansas, today for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 March 1907
Funeral Notice.--Mrs. Mary St. Peters died at her
home in Ponca City, Oklahoma, at 4 o'clock a.m.,
Thursday, March 14, 1907, aged 70 years. Funeral
Services will be held in the Methodist church Saturday,
March 16, at 2 o'clock p.m., conducted by Revs.
Crumley and Edwards. Interment in Ponca City
cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 March 1907
The funeral of James Taylor, the young man
killed by a Santa Fe train at Bliss last Sunday morning,
was held yesterday at the Bliss school house and the
remains interred in the Ponca City cemetery. The
funeral was largely attended and sympathy for the
bereaved family was not with held.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 March 1907
Grandma Drake died Wednesday evening at the home
of her daughter, Mrs. John Kizer. Funeral services
were held at the Baptist church, conducted by Rev. A. J.
Daughty, and interment made in Longwood cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 March 1907
Card of Thanks. -- We wish to thank our kind friends
and neighbors for their kindness during the sickness and
death of our mother. Mrs. R. Dunbar, Mrs. Laura Yost.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 21 March 1907
Died. -- Died, at his home northwest of Ponca City,
Terrill Rankin, aged 8 years, son of Pleasant and Ester
Rankin. The deceased was ill only a short time of
inflammation of the bowels when he was released from
his pain. He leaves a father, mother, two brothers, and
a host of friends and playmates to mourn his loss.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 April 1907
The infant son of W. H. Olston, aged one year and
two month, died at the family home on north eighth
street early last Saturday morning. The funeral was
held from the home at 3 o'clock in the afternoon of the
same day, and interment was made in the I.O.O.F.
cemetery.
[Roy G. Olston, b. 29 January 1906, d. 30 March 1907.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 April 1907
George W. Graham died last Saturday at his
residence on south Second street. He was born at
Indianapolis, Indiana, on 20 January 1863.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 April 1907
CAPT. CHAS. DAY PASSES AWAY. Well Known
Citizen Dies at His Home in Blackwell Today.
FUNERAL AT WINFIELD.
The Train Bearing
Remains Will Leave Blackwell at 11 a.m. Tomorrow,
Passing Through Ponca City an Hour Later--All masons
are Invited to Attend the funeral. -- Capt. Chas. Day,
one of the best known and most highly respected
citizens of this country, died at his home in Blackwell
this morning at an advanced age.
The funeral will be held at Winfield, Kansas,
tomorrow afternoon. The train bearing the remains will
leave Blackwell at 11 o'clock a.m., arriving in Ponca
City an hour later. From here the train will run over the
Santa Fe main line to Winfield. Persons desiring to
take the train here will have plenty of time to do so.
Capt. Day was a prominent Mason, being a Past
Grand Master of the Oklahoma Grand Lodge, and all
members of that order are invited to attend the funeral,
and it is expected that many will do so from this city,
deceased being a member of the Chapter and
Commandery in this city.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 5 April 1907
G. W. Graham of south Second street, died
Saturday and was buried Sunday. He was 44 years old
and a native of Indiana.
Died, Saturday morning, March 30, of
inflammation of the bowels, the 14 months old baby
boy of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Olston. The funeral was
preached by the Rev. Love of the Christian church and
the remains taken to the I.O.O.F. cemetery, in the
afternoon, for interment.
The parents have the
sympathy of all their friends in their sad bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 April 1907
An impressive Funeral. A special train of three coaches
and baggage car accompanied the remains of Uncle
Charlie Day from Blackwell to Winfield yesterday.
The Masonic Blue lodge of Blackwell attended in a
body.
When this city was reached Ben Hur
Commandry No. 9, K. T., in full uniform, joined the
train as an escort. At Winfield the Winfield Blue lodge
and Commandry met the train and accompanied the
remains to the church, where beautiful services were
held, and later at the cemetery. The service at the grave
was in charge of the Blackwell lodge.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 April 1907
In Sympathy. Resolved, That we, the members of the
Ponca City Lodge No. 18 Knights of Pythias, extend to
our bereaved brothers, J. B. and J. L. Drake, our
deepest sympathy in the loss of their mother, whose
death occurred at Bolivar, Mo., April 11, 1907.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 April 1907
Duane Hall Dead. -- Death's grim reaper is surely but
silently garnering the many should that are ripe unto the
harvest.
On Wednesday night at 10:45 God's
messenger of death beckoned and the spirit of Duane
Hall was conducted to its eternal home.
Duane Hall was born at Shasbury Hollow, Ver.,
Jan 11, 1822, and at the time of his death was aged 85
years [microfilm unreadable] young manhood was
spent at Glen Falls, New York. At the age of 27 he was
married to Miss Louise Todd at Richmond, Kentucky.
In 1854 he moved with his family to Kankukee county,
Illinois, where they resided until 1877 when they
removed to near Eureka, Kans. From there they came
to Blackwell in April, 1893, where they have since
resided.
Some nine weeks ago Grandpa was taken down
with the then prevalent disease, la grippe, from which
he never fully recovered, and this together with his
advanced age resulted in his death last evening.
Surviving him are his aged wife, Grandma Hall,
and six sons and daughters as follows: Peter E. Hall,
Mrs. Chris. Behm and Mrs. R. L. Laughlin all of
Blackwell; Mrs. Norman Hall of Phoenix, Ariz.; Frank
M. Hall of Winfield, Kas., and Henry B. Hall of Enid,
Okla.
The funeral services will be conducted at the
family residence on West McKinley avenue at 2 o'clock
Sunday afternoon, April 20, by Garrett W. McQuiddy
of the Christian church, and interment in Odd Fellows
Cemetery. -- Blackwell Record.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 May 1907
Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Souligny returned last night
from Wamego, Kansas, where they were called on
account of the death of Mrs. Souligny's father. Her
father's name was Edward Reginer and he died at this
home in Mr. Union, Pottawatomie county, Kansas, on
Wednesday, May 15, 1907, aged 79 years. The funeral
was held on Sunday, the 19th, and interment was made
in the Wamego cemetery. Deceased was a veteran of
the civil war, having served three years in the Union
army as a member of an Illinois regiment. He leaves
seven children--five sons and two daughters, all of
whom attended the funeral except one daughter, who
resides in Colorado.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 May 1907
Obituary. -- The following obituary of Edward
Regnier, father of Mrs. J. P. Souligny and E. N.
Regnier of this city is taken from the Westmoreland,
Kansas, Recorder of May 23.
Edward Regnier was born near St. Johns, Canada,
August 2, 1828. He died May 14, 1907. He married
Miss Adeline Beudre in 1851. In 1856 Mr. Regnier
moved with his family to Illinois. In 1862 he enlisted
in Company D of the 76th Illinois infantry and served
three years in the Civil war. He moved to Union
163
township Pottawatomie county, Kansas, in 1872, and
resided there until his death. He joined the Presbyterian
church in Illinois in 1860 in a revival meeting
conducted by Father Schilininque and has always been
a consistent member of that church.
Mr. Regniers wife died January 20, 1905. The
following children of Mr. and Mrs. Regnier survive
them: J. H., E. N., and L. J. Regnier and Ellen Souligny
of Oklahoma, Mrs. Sophia Dale, New Mexico, Julius
and M. B. Regnier of Union township.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 May 1907.
Obituary. -- Harvey A. Smith was born in Morgan
County, Virginia, in 1840; died in Ponca City,
Oklahoma, May 24, 1908, aged about 67 years.
The subject of this sketch was one of those sturdy
patriots, who, though born in the south, when the issue
of war came between the two sections of the country,
cast his lot with the North and enlisted in the Union
army in one of the Ohio regiments, serving all through
the war. Eleven months of his service was spent in the
southern prison pens of Libby and Andersonville.
Six years ago he came here and took leases in the
Otoe reservation. He was a man of considerable means
and made some money here in the sheep business.
from his friend and comrade, Robert Case, who has
been his right hand man in all his enterprises here, we
learn that he was a man of absolute integrity and
uprightness of character, always doing that which was
fair and just with his fellow men.
He was very well known in Ponca City and had
many friends here. He had no family, but the funeral
was attended by three of his four sisters, who came
from a distance.
The funeral services were held in the Methodist
church at 2 p.m. Monday of this week conducted by
Rev. Crumley, pastor of the church, and the attendance
was large.
Interment was made in the Ponca City cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 June 1907
GOOD CITIZEN DEAD. George B. Thompson Dies
at his home in Nardin, Aged 54. -- Nardin, June 1. -The funeral services over the remains of George B.
Thompson who died at is home here on Wednesday
night from an attack of Brights disease, were held this
afternoon at the M. E. church, conducted by Rev. W.
W. Dorman.
Mr. Thompson was an old resident of Kay county,
having located on a farm near Nardin at the opening of
the Strip. He was at one time in the general
merchandise business here and at the time of his death
was manager of the local telephone exchange, as well
as conducting a general real estate and loan business.
He was a member of the A. F. & A. M., and the K of P.,
the former today having charge of the funeral service,
assisted by the latter. He leaves a wife and eight
children. Mr. Thompson was 54 years old.
164
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 June 1907
Mrs. Thomas Ryan died at the hospital in Wichita
at four o'clock yesterday afternoon. She was taken to
the hospital last Thursday for a surgical operation. The
body was brought here this morning and taken to the
family home on north third street. She was about 45
years of age, and leaves a husband and one child, a
daughter. The funeral will be held from the Catholic
church at 10 a.m. tomorrow
from the Ponca City Democrat, 20 June 1907
Died. Miriam E. Wife of Edward L. Sivyer, and
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. C. Headley, died Thursday
morning, June 20, at her home on south Eight street.
The funeral will be held from the St. Felix church
Saturday morning, with interment at I.O.O.F. cemetery.
Deceased was married to Mr. Sivyer about one
year ago and the blow is a sad one to the young
husband. The Democrat joins the throng of friends of
the parents, husband and relatives in extending heartfelt
sympathy.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 June 1907
Mrs. Ellen Dean, mother of Robert Dean and Mrs.
M. Daley, died at the home of her daughter on south
Third street at 9:45 last night, aged 83 years.
arrangements for the funeral have not yet been made,
awaiting answers from relatives at a distance.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 June 1907
The six months old child of VanVorhees and wife
died at the family home on south Second street
yesterday afternoon. The funeral was held from the
home at 3 o'clock p.m. today. The sorrowing parents
have the sincere sympathy of the entire community in
their bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 June 1907
The funeral of Mrs. Ellen Dean was held from the
Catholic church at 9:30 a.m. today and in spite of the
storm was largely attended. The sorrowing relatives
have the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 June 1907
In sympathy. -- Whereas, the angel of death has visited
the home of our brother, Henry Headley and called
from this life his sister, Miriam.
Resolved, that we, the members of the Ponca City
Lodge No. 18, K of P. extend our deepest sympathy to
our brother, his parents, brothers and sisters and the
husband of the deceased in this their hour of sorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 2 July 1907
YOUNG MAN DROWNED. -- The Sad Ending of a
Fishing Excursion on Grouse Creek. -- Arkansas City,
Kan., July 1 -- The Traveler of today has the following
account of the drowning of Harry Asbell, whose home
is at Hardy:
The drowning of Harry Asbell, the seventeen year
old son of Frank Asbell, put an end to a fishing
excursion on Grouse creek Saturday afternoon. Frank
Asbell and family, formerly residents of Arkansas City,
but now living at Hardy, Oklahoma., came up to
Silverdale last week for a fishing trip on Crouse creek.
Saturday afternoon the boy was wading in the creek
fishing with a pole and line, when he stepped into a
deep hole and before help could reach him, he was
drowned. He was a good swimmer and it is believed he
was taken with a cramp. His father was in a boat some
distance up stream and saw his son's predicament. He
started to his assistance but was unable to reach him.
Several other members were on the bank and saw the
young man drown.
A search was made for the body, but it was not
found until nearly noon yesterday. It was found a short
distance from where the young man was last seen
struggling in the water.
The funeral was held yesterday afternoon at
Silverdale, with burial in the Silverdale cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 July 1907
DROWNED AT CHILOCCO. -- Indian Student Loses
His Life While Swimming in Pond. -- Arkansas City,
July 8. -- The Traveler had the following:
Polycarpo Romero, aged 20 years, a student at the
Chilocco Indian schools, was drowned in the lagoon at
the schools Saturday evening. The body was recovered
after being in the water about forty-five minutes and
efforts were made toward resuscitation, but after an
hour and a half of hard work, these were found to be of
no use and were abandoned.
Romero was swimming alone in the lagoon when
he was drowned. It is supposed that he was diving from
a spring board and struck his head on a post in the water
some distance from the board, rendering him
unconscious and he drowned while in that condition.
Romero was missed at supper time and a little
while later his clothes were found on the bank of the
lagoon. Immediately some of the boy's began hunting
for the body and found it without trouble. It was taken
into a boat and transferred to the shore, where it was
thought it could be resuscitated. A physician was called
from this city and after every known method to revivify
had been tried without success, the efforts had to be
given up. Romero was a big fellow, standing about six
feet tall. He was a good swimmer and the body showed
no signs of cramps so the theory that he struck his head
was accepted. There was a bruise on the forehead over
the right eye, but it was thought at the time that this was
made while pulling the body into the boat. Later this
was accepted as being the place which stuck the post.
The drowned boy was a Pueblo Indian and had
been at the schools for some time. The remains were
sent this morning to relatives at Laguna, N. M., for
burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 July 1907
The little son of Fred Cragin and wife, aged about
a year and a half, died at 5:30 this morning at the family
home in Tonkawa, of spinal meningitis. The funeral
will be held tomorrow afternoon. Mr. Cragin is a
brother of Mrs. J. Flem Smith of this city, and the
family has many friends here who sympathize with
them in their bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 July 1907
Horace L. Stimpson died at the family home on
north Ninth street at 5 o'clock last Saturday evening of
consumption, aged 43 years. The funeral was held
from the home at 2:30 o'clock Sunday afternoon and
burial was made in the I.O.O.F. cemetery. Deceased
was a single man and made his home with his parents.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 August 1907
Obituary. -- John S. Walton was born in Pennsylvania
September 21, 1856, died in Worsham, Virginia, July
27, 1907. He moved to Missouri when twenty years of
age, and was married to Susie I. Carrico, June 16, 1878.
To them were born two daughters, one of whom still
lives, Mrs. D. W. Phillips of Sapulpa, Indian Territory.
His home is in Ponca City, Oklahoma. He came to
Virginia in January 1907, with his wife and Chas. B.
Pickett's family, in the hope that the change would
benefit him. He has been a sufferer for six years, but
was always cheerful and hopeful. He answered the
Master's call with a gracious smile of welcome.
Funeral services were held at the home of Mrs.
Walton's niece, Mrs. Pickett, Wednesday afternoon at
three o'clock by Rev. Graham. The remains were laid
to rest in the Farmville cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 August 1907
Obituary -- J. E. Calloway was born in Morgan county,
Georgia, September 18, 1874. The family moved to
Texas when he was yet a boy. Mr. Calloway took sick
at the 101 Ranch over a month ago and was brought to
the Planters hotel in this city, where after a lingering
sickness he passed away this morning. All was done
for his comfort and restoration possible. Especial
kindness was shown by the hotel authorities and friends
in bringing flowers and other tokens.
Rev. L. O. Hudson conducted a short funeral
service at the grave this afternoon when the body was
laid to rest. A brother, A. J. Calloway, who has been at
the bedside will return tomorrow.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 8 August 1907
J. E. Callaway died at the Planters hotel yesterday
morning of typhoid pneumonia. He was a stranger in
the city and came here from Texas. The funeral was
165
held from the Duncan undertaking rooms in the
afternoon with interment in I.O.O.F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 August 1907
Resolutions of Condolence. -- At the regular meeting of
Ponca City Camp No. 7092, held August 7, 1907, the
following resolutions were adopted:
Whereas, the angel of death has entered the home
of our Neighbor, D. K. Smith, and removed his dearly
beloved mother to her well earned home beyond;
therefore be it
Resolved, that we, the members our Camp, extend
to our beloved Neighbor our heartfelt sympathy and
condolence in his bereavement.
was largely attended, most of the business houses of the
city being closed during the services. Rev. O. L.
Hudson, pastor of the Baptist church, delivered a
particularly fine sermon and the singing by a select
choir was very beautiful. Mr. Peery was held in high
esteem by our people, a fact which is attested by the
large attendance at the funerals.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12August 1907
Mrs. A. L. Gelvin left last night for Kansas City to
attend the funeral of her brother R. A. Wilson, who
died suddenly at his home in that city last Saturday
afternoon of heart disease.
DEATH OF RUSH PEERY. Cashier of the First
National Bank Dies After Long Illness. -- E. R. Peery,
cashier of the First National bank of this city died at his
home on west Grand avenue at eight o'clock this
morning, of consumption. He had been confined to his
bed for several months and his death was not
unexpected. The following obituary has been furnished
this paper by Rev. O. L. Hudson, pastor of Baptist
church:
Edwin Rush Peery was born in Bottetort county,
Virginia, May 4, 1869, died in Ponca City, Oklahoma,
August 8, 1907. Mr. Perry came to Oklahoma
September 1893, where he has since lived. He was
employed in the First National bank of this city in 1895
and was elected cashier in 1896, which position he held
until the day of his death. As a mark of special
appreciation he was elected cashier in January last for
the ensuing year at full pay though it was realized that
he would not be able to visit the bank again. A
prominent businessman who has been very closely
associated with the deceased says, "Mr. Peery was the
most exemplary man I ever men. He was born so that
he only thought one way and that was to do right. It
seemed natural on his part to be just, kind and
forbearing with his fellowmen." As an officer of the
bank he was appreciated by customers, employees and
officers.
Mr. Peery was married October 4, 1899, to Miss
Margaret Viering. Mrs. Peery with the little four-yearold daughter Louise, together with a father, mother,
brother and sister survive him. The brother, Kent E.
Peery, has been with him for over nine months. After
patiently suffering for almost a year, he quietly fell
asleep. The funeral will be held at the Presbyterian
church tomorrow at 3 p.m. The sympathy of the whole
community is extended to the bereaved family.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15August 1907
Death of Mrs. Smith. -- Speaking of the death of Mrs.
M. J. Smith, mother of Dempsey Smith of this city,
which occurred at her home in Fairfax last week, the
Osage Journal says:
Mrs. M. J. Smith died at her home in this city
Monday, August 4, after a short illness. At 5 o'clock
with the gray dawning of the morning her spirit was
wafted away as peacefully as her life had been.
The funeral was conducted from the home Tuesday
evening at 1 o'clock by Rev. Lemmons of Kaw City in
the presence of a large concourse of friends and
neighbors. Her favorite hymns, "Beautiful River,"
"Asleep in Jesus," "Nearer My God to Thee," "It is
Well with My Soul" and "Home of the Soul," were
rendered by a selected quartette.
The casket was banked with rich and handsome
flowers and a wreath surrounding a handsomely
arranged motto--"In Loving Rememberance"--from the
M. E. Ladies Aid society, of which she was an honored
member. The longest funeral procession ever seen in
this part of the county followed the remains to the
cemetery, where the last sad rites were performed and
the earth closed over an eventful life.
Mrs. Smith was 69 years and one week old to a
day. She had lived in this country for many years and
was loved and respected by all who knew her. She was
the mother of a large and honored family, several of
whom survive her.
It is not often that so marked a degree of respect is
shown as that accorded the deceased and her family.
All the business houses were closed and practically all
business suspended during the funeral hour. It is good
to have lived such a life that at the end though sad
should be a brilliant triumph.
The Chief joins the entire community in extending
sympathy to the family. [This obituary was also
published in the Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 August 1907
The funeral of E. R. Peery, who died at his home
in this city yesterday morning, was held from the
Presbyterian church at 3:00 o'clock this afternoon and
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 August 1907
Two Sudden Deaths. -- Jacob Thede, a prominent
farmer residing four or five miles northeast of town,
died at the Commercial hotel in this city at 7:30 this
166
morning from the effects of sun stroke received last
Saturday. He was a single man, aged about forty years,
and has no relatives in this locality. He has a brother
and two sisters living at Freemont, Nebraska. He was
quite wealthy, owning two farms in this county, one
being the old John Niemann farm just east of the stone
quarry and the other farm northeast of town on which
the Pleasant View school house is located. The body
was taken to Hayden's undertaking rooms, and
arrangements for the funeral will not be made until the
relatives can be heard from.
N. W. Quisenberry, an old and highly respected
citizen of this city, died very suddenly at the family
home on south Fifth street at 5:15 o'clock this morning,
of paralysis. He was apparently in his usual health on
going to bed last night, in fact, had been in unusually
good spirits during the evening. He was about 72 years
of age and leaves a wife and several children, all grown
up. The funeral will be held from the home at two
o'clock tomorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 August 1907
The funeral of the three-months old child of
Thomas and Mabel McQuirk was held from the home
of Mrs. McQuirk's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dunkin, four
miles west of town, at 10 o'clock today, Father Sevens
conducting the services. The funeral was largely
attended and the services were very simple and
beautiful. four little girls acted as pall bearers.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 August 1907
Death of Mrs. McDowell. Mrs. Alta L. McDowell,
wife of N. W. McDowell, died at the family home on
south Fourth street in this city at 4:30 o'clock last
Saturday afternoon of consumption, aged 36 years and
11 days. The funeral was held in the Christian church
at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon, the services being
conducted by the pastor, Rev Phillips, and interment
was made in the I.O.O.F cemetery. Deceased had only
been a resident of Ponca City for a little more than a
year, but had made many friends here by her
womanliness and gentle Christian spirit. She had been
ill for many weary months, but bore her sufferings with
fortitude and cheerfulness. She leaves a husband and
two daughters, Chloe, aged 15 and Ruth, aged 7, who
have the sympathy of the entire community in their
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 August 1907
Old Soldier Dead.--W. I. McConnell, a veteran of the
Civil war and an old resident of this city, died at the
family home in the Wylde addition at 7:30 o'clock
yesterday morning [August 18, 1907]. He was 73 years
of age and had been in very poor health for more than a
year. He leaves a wife and two children, a son and
daughter. The son resides in Camchester, Kansas and
the daughter, now Mrs. Jones, here in Ponca City. The
Funeral services were held at the home this afternoon,
conducted by Rev. Phillips, pastor of the Christian
church. The Grand Army Post of which the deceased
was a member had charge of the services at the grave in
the I. O. O. F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 22 August 1907
W. I. McConnell, one of the veterans of the civil
war and one of our oldest citizens, died at his home in
the Wylde addition, Sunday evening. He was 73 years
of age and had been very feeble for the past year. He
leaves a wife and two children, a son and a daughter, to
mourn his loss. The funeral was held from the home on
Monday and the remains laid to rest among the old
veterans who are sleeping side by side in the Odd
Fellows cemetery. The Grand Army Post had charge of
the services at the cemetery. Thus, one by one the
defenders of the flag are passing away and soon there
will be none left to remind us of the greatest struggle of
the world.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 August 1907
The little son of M. and Minnie Smith of Fairfax
died at the home of Dempsey Smith in this city at 1:30
last evening, aged 9 months and 22 days. The body
was taken to Fairfax for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 August 1907
Another Home Made Sad. -- Kenkrick (sic), Okla., Aug
27, 1907. -- Mrs. Alta McDowell passed away at her
home in Ponca city, on the eve of the 16th day of
August, age 36 years and 11 days. She has been ill for
almost a year.
Mr. and Mrs. McDowell are extensively known,
having lived in the community for 15 years.
Mrs. Alta Nash was born at Bedford, Iowa, August
6, 1875. She [unreadable text] her parents where she
was afterward married to Mr. N. W. McDowell,
September 17th, 1891. To this union were born three
children, of which two survive her, Chloe and Ruth,
Little Walter having died in infancy.
Mrs. Alta McDowell united with the Christian
church at the early age of fourteen years. She was a
noble Christian woman, having given her life to the
work of saving souls and helping humanity. To say that
she will be missed but feebly expresses it. For to know
her was to love her. Her willing hand were ever ready
to alleviate the suffering in her midst.
To the husband that she leaves, she was an
inspiration and helpmate indeed, and sadly will she be
missed from his side. But the parting will not be long
and the reunion on the other side will be forever.
Her remains were laid to rest in the I.O.O.F.
cemetery at Ponca City by loving hands and
sympathizing hearts.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 2 September 1907
Card of Thanks. We desire to return sincere thanks to
the friends and neighbors for the kindness during the
illness and at the death of our beloved child, Ralph.
167
Such kindness can never be forgotten. H. P. Kimmell
and Wife, Mrs. M. W. Kimmell [Ralph Irving Kimmell,
b. 18 September 1906 - 1 September 1907.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 September 1907
Obituary. Mrs. George Wageck's mother died August
14, 1907. Mrs. Wageck visited her in July and was
home only three weeks when she died. This obituary is
from her church paper.
Catherine Longsdorf died at the home of her
daughter, Mrs. Ella Gardner, Carlisle, Pa., on the 19th
(sic) ult (last month).
Sister Longsdorf was a consistent Christian and
devoted member of Salome U. B. Church. Whenever
practicable she was at her post of duty. Therefore, she
will be greatly missed, as she was one of those who
hardly missed the regular services on the Sabbath. Her
life was dedicated to God, she lived what she professed,
and therefore, we have the glorious assurance that she
was ushered from the church militant into the church
triumphant to be with her Saviour forever. She was a
patient sufferer for some time, and was patiently
waiting for the time of her departure. She has gone to
her reward "to see Him face to face, and tell the story
saved by grace."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 October 1907
A. F. Price and wife, who accompanied the body of
Mrs. Elizabeth Black to Decatur, Illinois,
returned night before last. Mr. Price's mother, Mrs. N.
A. Price, of Decatur came beck with them for an
extended visit.
Card of Thanks. We desire on the part of ourselves and
the family to return sincere thanks to the friends and
neighbors for their kindly attentions, assistance and
sympathy through the illness and at the death of our
beloved mother, Mrs. Elizabeth Black. Such kindness
can never be forgotten. A. F. Price and Wife.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 October 1907
Theodore Hughes, son of Thomas J. Hughes, died
at his home in the city yesterday morning, of paralysis,
aged 43 years. The funeral was held at the home at 2
o'clock this afternoon and burial was made in the
I.O.O.F. cemetery. Deceased was unmarried and had
been farming in the Osage country when he was taken
sick and brought home.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 October 1907
Glenn DeMar Dead. -- Glenn DeMarr, spoken of in the
following from this morning's Wichita Eagle, is a
nephew of N. DeMar, of Cross, and is quite well known
in Ponca City, where he visited only a short time ago.
The funeral of Glen DeMar, who died of typhoid
fever at Kansas City, is to be held this afternoon at 3
o'clock from the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs.
168
Charles DeMar, 1602 Park Place. The body arrived in
Wichita yesterday afternoon.
Glenn DeMar was eighteen years of age. He went
to Kansas City about a month ago. Two weeks ago he
successfully passed an examination in telegraphy at
Bloomington, Ill., and had secured a position at Kansas
City. He died at St. Bethany's hospital, after a short
illness.
Mr. DeMar had a large circle of acquaintances in
the city and was a favorite among the younger set. He
was a student of Fairmount college.
Speaking of the death of Glenn DeMar in Kansas
City Tuesday afternoon, a friend of the family said to
an Eagle reporter last night:
We can reconcile ourselves to the demise of the
innocent babe that has tasted none of the sorrows of life
nor become enmeshed in the entanglements of life's
weary journey. We can bespeak a sorrow for the
departure of the aged that have left their imprints for the
betterment of the race upon the sands of time. But,
when we see our neighbor's child, just blooming into
the full measure of manhood and endeavor--when we
see that child decline, fade away and disappear like the
autumn leaf, God will forgive the lump in our throat
and the tears that gather in our eyes. At such a time as
this the man with the adamantine heart would decrease
the measure of grief meted out to the parents."
from the Ponca City Democrat, 10 October 1907
Died. -- At his home in this city Sunday morning, of
paralysis, Theodore Hughes, aged 43 years. The
funeral was held from the residence of Thos. J. Hughes
at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon, with interment in the
Odd Fellows cemetery. Deceased was a single man and
has been farming a lease in the Osage country. The
family has the heartfelt sympathy of all their friends in
their sad affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 October 1907
THE PASSING OF CAP JINKS. Eccentric Character
Who Lived at Tonkawa. HIS LIFE'S ROCKY ROAD.
Pathetic Story of the Final chapters in the Life of an
Old Man Whose only Companion was a Dog--Died
Alone Among Strangers. -- Tonkawa, Oct. 12 -- The
News says: Several days ago R. J. Devore of Tonkawa
received the following:
Osceolo, Mo., Sept. 20. -- An old soldier, Capt.
Abraham Jinks, died here on the 10th of September.
Was cared for and buried by the Grand Army Post. Do
you know any of his relatives or family? If so, please
inform them or give us their address. -- C. C. Rubottom.
This marks the passing of an eccentric character
who lived in and near Tonkawa for about seven years.
Little is known of his past life, save that he had been a
soldier in the Civil war, enlisting in the 16th Indiana,
and serving three years. He talked very little of the
past, but it was gleaned from rambling remarks made
while in his cups, which was very often, that he had
been a man of means, that he had a wife and family, but
they were all dead and with them had vanished
ambition, money and friends, and he had become a
wanderer.
Captain Jinks drifted into Tonkawa about eight
years ago. He was given employment by R. J. Devore
on a house he was building. "Cap" was told to go over
where the house was in course of construction and
report to the carpenter in charge of the work. When
Mr. Devore went over a few hours later he found Cap in
charge, the men recognizing his superior ability. He
had the work laid out in better shape and the frame was
planned with greater skill and exactness. But it was not
long until Cap showed his failing, for he got "riproaring" drunk and remained so for several days.
The then quiet little village of Tonkawa seemed to
strike the wanderer's fancy and he built a little cabin on
the banks of the Salt Fork and became a fisherman. He
cast his net and lines in quest of the festive catfish with
varying success for about a year, when he moved to the
Chikaskia river east of town. Here he built a cabin and
continued his quest for the finny tribe with greater
success. He was assisted in his labors by his dog
"Bum," which he had trained to dive for fish. Together,
the dog and man eked out a living on the river, abetted
by a small pension from the government. They lived
here for about six years, the monotony of their simple
life being broken only by occasional visits to town to
market the "catch." On these occasions "Cap" would
get drunk and often spent the night in the "cooler."
"Bum" would follow his master and they would be
locked up together.
With all his dissipation and rude life, "Cap Jinks
possessed a heart that beat warm with human sympathy.
On one chill October day he had just come to town and
had not yet visited the saloon, when he saw two little
girls whose bare feet and limbs were blue with cold.
He asked them who they did not wear their shoes, and
they replied they hadn't any. He took them into the
store and had them fitted with warm shoes and
stockings, and paid for them out of his scanty means.
"Cap" went back to his little hut sober that day, and
"Bum" was happy.
A little over a year ago "Cap" and "Bum"
disappeared. Not long afterward Mr. Devore received a
letter from him dated from a town in Missouri, in which
"Cap" said "Bum" was dead. He had buried him on the
banks of the Grand river, and he added, "Don't ask me
if I cried." This weary, broken old soldier had tasted
the depths and dregs of sorrow; his dear wife and
children had died, his money and friends had flown and
now his dog, The companion and sharer of his poverty
and misery, had left him. His life seemed one round of
disappointments; everybody and everything he ever
loved had withered and died; his youthful ambitions
and aspirations had been blighted and now he wanted to
die and be at rest from it all. A kind providence finally
came to his relief, and called the old soldier from this
world of sorrow; called the homeless wanderer from the
land he fought to save. When the last trump shall sound
and the souls of men are brought before the judgment
seat, we feel that Captain Jinks will hear the Master
say: "Ye have done it unto the least of these, my
children, ye have done it unto me; enter thou into the
joys of Heaven" There to be reunited with those gone
before.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 October 1907
Thomas Bassler Dead. -- A telegram received today
announces the death in Stillwater, last night, of Thomas
Bassler, the well known citizen of Longwood
township, this county. The immediate cause of death
was paralysis, though Mr. Bassler had been in very
poor health for some time. The family was residing in
Stillwater in order to give the son and daughter an
opportunity to attend the A. & M. college. Funeral
services were conducted in Stillwater this afternoon,
and the body will arrive here at 11 a.m. tomorrow, will
be taken charge of at the train by the Odd Fellows and
interment will be made in the I.O.O.F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 October 1907
Lockjaw Causes Death. -- Charles Wilkinson, the
young man who was brought here from Foraker
Wednesday morning for treatment for lockjaw, died this
morning about 5 o'clock. Convulsions began yesterday
afternoon about 4 o'clock and continued to grown
worse in spite of all the attending physician could do,
until this morning at an early hour they reached his
heart and death followed. The remains were taken to
Breckenridge by an uncle, who accompanied the young
man here, and burial will be at that place.
Young Wilkinson was working with a corn binder
a few miles from Foraker, a week ago last Monday,
when he got his had in the cogs of the machine,
crushing the member in bad shape. The injured hand
was wrapped up in a dish towel that had been used in
drying dishes, and a physician was called. It is believed
that the wound became infected from the cloth and was
followed by lockjaw.
The parents of the young man are dead, but a sister
lives in Ponca City. She was notified of her brother's
death and accompanied the remains to Breckenridge. -Saturday’s Arkansas City Traveler.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 16 October 1907
Obituary -- Thomas Bassler. -- Thomas Bassler was
born in Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania, March 21,
1858, was reared in Philadelphia, where he received a
common school education and later learned the
lithographer's trade; in 1881 he removed to Manhattan,
Kansas, where he entered the State Agricultural college
for a four year course, graduating from the institution in
1885; taught in the public schools of Kansas for a
number of years; was married in 1886 to Miss Linnia E.
Snyder at Geuda Springs, Kansas; in 1893 at the
169
opening of the Cherokee Strip, he made the race for a
home and secured a claim in what is now Longwood
township, eight miles east of this city; resided
continuously on this claim until the family removed a
few months ago to Stillwater, Oklahoma, where he died
on Sunday, October 13, 1907, of paralysis. Funeral
services were conducted at Stillwater on Monday
afternoon and on Tuesday the body, accompanied by
the wife and children, was brought here for burial, the
services at the grave being conducted by the Odd
Fellows lodge, of which he was a highly respected
member.
He leaves a wife and two children, a son, Clarence,
aged about 21 years, and a daughter, Emma, aged about
16 years, both students of the Agricultural college at
Stillwater; his mother, Mrs. S. Bassler of Middletown,
Ohio; two sisters, Mrs. W. L. Culbertson of
Middletown, Ohio, and Mrs. Joseph E. Ogden of Long
Beach, California; one brother, S. S. Bassler of
Cincinnati, Ohio.
Thomas Bassler has been active in Kay county
affairs during all the years of his residence here. He
took an interest in political matters, and being a
Republican in politics, he served his party as secretary
of the county committee for a term of two (years) and
was usually a delegate to county conventions from his
township. He was at one time a candidate for the
nomination for county superintendent of schools, but
failed to get the nomination. His special efforts were
along the line of education and educational institutions.
Being determined that his son and daughter should have
the advantages of our magnificent educational system,
they were given a year in the University Preparatory
school at Tonkawa and this year entered the State
Agricultural college at Stillwater for the four-year
course, the family moving to Stillwater to enable them
to do so.
He was a man of strong will and great earnestness.
With a body so frail that it seemed a marvel that he
should be able to move about, he accomplished more
than the average man's allotted tasks. It may be truly
said of him that he was an honest man, a good citizen
and a faithful friend, and his death is a material loss to
the entire community in which he lived and labored.
[The same obituary was published in the Democrat
of 17 October 1907.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 October 1907
Jim Nulty is Dead. -- James Nulty, son of Mrs. Ella
Nulty of this city, died in Casper, Wyoming, at 5
o'clock this morning, of consumption, aged about 25
years. The body will be brought back here for burial,
and will arrive here as near as can be estimated, about
next Wednesday. Mrs. Nulty and family, who are
among our best people, have the earnest sympathy of
the entire community in their bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 October 1907
170
The remains of James Nulty, who died in Casper,
Wyoming, arrived last night, and the funeral services
were held at St. Felix Catholic church this morning at 9
o'clock, Rev. R. Sevens officiating. Deceased was
afflicted with consumption and had been in Wyoming
with the hope of deriving benefit from the climate. He
was a young man beloved by all who knew him. The
number who followed the remains to their final resting
place was large, mute evidence of the esteem in which
he was held.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 24 October 1907
Death of James Nulty. -- James Nulty, son of Mrs.
Patrick Nulty of this city, died at Casper, Wyoming, last
Saturday morning, of tuberculosis, at the age of 25
years.
Jim had grown to manhood in Ponca City, having
come here at the opening with his parents. He had been
in poor health for a number of months and had gone to
Wyoming with the expectancy of improving. Word
was received from him just a short time since that he
was improving wonderfully, and the news of his death
was a surprise and a sad blow to the family.
He was a young man of splendid character and
beloved by all who knew him. The family will receive
the genuine heartfelt sympathy of their friends in their
sad bereavement.
The remains arrived in the city Tuesday evening
and the funeral services were held at the Catholic
church Wednesday morning at nine o'clock, conducted
by Rev. Father Sevens, with interment in the I.O.O.F.
cemetery. The large crowd which was in attendance to
escort the body to the cemetery bore testimony to the
esteem in which the deceased was held.
Death of Mrs. O'Dell. -- The Pawhuska Capital has the
following account of the death of Mrs. O'Dell, wife of
Arthur O'Dell who was for several years an employee
of the Calkins department store in this city:
Last Monday occurred the funeral services of Mrs.
Belle O'Dell, who passed away from this life on Friday
night at the hospital in Oklahoma City. The funeral
services were conducted by Rev. H. E. Frohock and
were solemn and impressive and were largely attended
by our citizens as a tribute of love and respect to the
memory of Mrs. O'Dell.
Mrs. O'Dell was formerly Miss Belle Pettit,
daughter of Judge and Mrs. C. W. Pettit. She grew up
from her earliest girlhood at Pawhuska, and was known
and loved for her splendid character and attainments.
Nearly a year and a half ago she was united in marriage
to Arthur O'Dell, formerly of this place; but at that time
a resident and businessman of Keifer, I. T., and she
went with him to her new home with fond expectations
for the future. A little over two months ago a little babe
came to brighten the home, but the mother failed to
regain her strength and quick consumption separated
her from the loved ones of this world. She was a kind
and loving wife and an affectionate mother. Besides
the husband and babe, she leaves to mourn her loss a
father and mother, one sister and four brothers, also a
host of friends in whose memory she will ever be held
with love and esteem.
The remains were enclosed in a beautiful white
casket and laid away in the cemetery, there to repose
until the great day of re-uniting comes.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 November 1907
Mrs. Lulu Harness, wife of Wm. Harness died
last Saturday at the home in the Osage country, of
consumption. funeral services were held at the home
and interment was made in the Ponca City cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 November 1907
Mrs. Delta Kimmel, wife of H. F. Kimmel,
formerly of Cross, died at the home in Gardner, Kansas,
last Friday, Nov., 15, aged 21 years. The body was
brought here and burial took place this afternoon from
the Hayden undertaking rooms.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 November 1907
Death of Geo. W. Diehl. -- Geo. W. Diehl an old and
highly respected citizen of this city, died at the family
home on south Second street at 8 o'clock this morning,
of heart failure.
Death was very sudden and
unexpected. Mr. Diehl was taken sick about two weeks
ago, but had apparently recovered from his illness and
was getting about again. funeral services will be held at
the home at 3 o'clock tomorrow afternoon and the body
will be taken to St. George, Kansas, for burial.
Sheni. Mrs. Cudahy of this city is his only daughter,
with sons living remote from here constitute his family.
Comrade Diehl's life among us was a simple
unostentatious one. Retiring recently from business
activities, his life was quiet and uneventful.
Diehl enlisted in the United States army for the
Civil war at the tender age of 15. He was an aid-decamp in the 13th Illinois cavalry undergoing arduous
privation, dangerous adventure and many sad and trying
disappointments. For years he was a leader of scouts,
riding over every inch of territory from Missouri to the
gulf. All such duties were exacting, calling for
industry, unlimited patience, unwearied persistence and
sublime effacement of self and self interest that he
might worthily perform his mission as citizen and
soldier. [The above obituary has been edited for length,
gleaning items of genealogical value from a lengthy and
wordy tribute.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 21 November 1907
Died. -- Friday, November 15, at Gardner, Kansas,
of consumption, Delia Kimmel, wife of H. P. Kimmel.
Deceased had been suffering from that dread disease for
the past seven month. The remains were brought to
Ponca City and buried in the Odd Fellows' cemetery,
Monday, November 18, followed to their last resting
place by a host of friends. Mrs. Kimmel was well
known here, having resided at Cross for a number of
years, and was loved by all. The grief stricken husband
has the heartfelt sympathy of all in his hour of sadness.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 November 1907
The funeral services for Geo. W. Diehl, who died
yesterday morning, were held at the family home on
south Second street at 5 o'clock this afternoon,
conducted by Rev. Phillips, pastor of the Christian
church, and a selected choir. Though rain was falling
steadily, the attendance was larger than the house
would accommodate and the floral offerings were many
and very beautiful. Mr. Phillips spoke eloquently and
feelingly from the text. "If a man died, shall be live
again?" Delivering an address full of hope and comfort
for the sorrowing family and friends. The body will be
taken to St. George, Kansas, the old home, where
further services will be held and interment made.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 21 November 1907
The community was shocked Monday morning to
learn of the sudden death of Geo. W. Diehl, one of our
most highly respected citizens. He had been sick only
about two weeks and it was thought that he was on his
way to a speedy recovery. Heart trouble was the cause
of death. The funeral services were held at the home on
south Second street, Tuesday afternoon at 3 o'clock.
attended by a large delegation of friends who went to
pay their last tribute of love and respect to one who had
been their true friend in life. The remains were taken to
St. George, Kansas, the former home of the deceased,
for burial. Mr. Diehl was a kind father, a loving
husband and a good and useful citizen. The sympathy
of the entire community is extended to the wife and
bereaved ones in their dark hour of trouble and sadness.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 November 1907
Obituary of Geo. W. Diehl. -- The kindly face of our
citizen, Geo. W. Diehl, appears among us no more. On
Monday morning, the 18th inst., he was stricken with
benumbing suddenness, dying in a moment. He had
been very ill for several days, but was sufficiently
improved to sit up.
Comrade Diehl was married to Mrs. Lavilla
Holton, daughter of John M. Sheni, and sister of Leroy
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 November 1907
Obituary. Martha Lovell, or as we know her better,
Grandma Davis, was born on the 8th day of April,
1831, and on the evening of the 14th of November,
after many hours of unconsciousness, she passed
peacefully away to join that great multitude of relatives
and friends, who have gone before, in that land of
eternal rest. Her age was 76 years, 7 months and 6
days.
171
In 1856, she was united in marriage with James
Davis and until his death, twenty-five years ago, their
home was in Kane, Ill. Soon after his death, she gave
up housekeeping and came west and spent the
remainder of her life in the homes of her children. Of a
family of nine children, one son and three daughters
survive her. They are J. W. Davis, of Ponca City, Mrs.
Minnie Carmichael of Ralston, Okla., Mrs. Mattie
Shinn of Ponca City, and Mrs. C. A. Wentworth of
Ashton.
While still a young woman, she was converted and
united with the Methodist Episcopal church and has
continued a member of that church until her death. She
has tried all her life to live as a conscientious Christian
should live and was prepared to go whenever God
should call. The services were conducted at the Mt.
Hope M. E. church, eleven miles west of town, by the
pastor, J. E. Murphy. A large number of friends and
relatives were present to attend the services. -Arkansas City Traveler.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 November 1907
William Gingerich, a well known resident of the
west side of the county, died last Tuesday at Phoenix,
Arizona, where he had gone for the benefit of his
health. He was afflicted with consumption.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 November 1907
Word was received here Friday of last week, of the
death, at Seattle, Wash., of Ed. Cornell, formerly of
this city [Blackwell]. He had been sick but a short time
with pneumonia, and the announcement of his death
came as a shock to the relatives and many friends in
this county. The aged mother lives here, and a brother
at Ponca City. The body will be brought here for
interment and will probably arrive Saturday of this
week. -- Blackwell Times-Record.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 November 1907
Mrs. Louvella A. Harness, wife of W. J. Harness,
died at her home on Doga creek, Friday, Nov. 15. She
was born in Indiana, June 26, 1874. Her maiden name
was Louvella A. Adden, was married to Wm. J.
Harness. They resided in Indiana until seven years ago,
when they came to Oklahoma and have lived here until
her death. She has been a member of the Friends
church for a number of years. She leaves a husband
and six children to mourn her loss. Her father and
brother who live in Indiana have been at her bedside
during her sickness. The remains were taken to Ponca
City for burial. The Chief joins the community in
extending sympathy to the bereft family. -- Fairfax
Chief.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 November 1907
Obituary. Chas. Edgar Cornell was born in Princeton,
Ind., Nov. 18, 1868, and died at Seattle, Wash., Nov.
15, 1907. He was married June 8, 1890, to Miss Etta
172
Kirby of Belle Plain, Kansas, who survives him, his
other immediate relatives being his mother, Mrs. Sara
Cornell of Blackwell, and his brother, E. J. Cornell of
Ponca City. The subject of this sketch came to
Blackwell from Wellington in 1894 and worked at his
trade, that of barber. From here he went to Gainesville,
Texas, where he remained two years, and after working
at other points he returned to Blackwell in 1900, bought
the Chas. Clark shop and made his home here until
Nov. 23, 1905, when he sold out and moved to Denver,
then to Manitou, and recently to Seattle, where he was
taken ill with typhoid pneumonia, resulting in his death.
The body was sent here for burial, the funeral services
occurring at the home of his mother, Sunday,
November 24 at 10 a.m. conducted by Rev. Garret W.
McQuiddy of the Christian church, of which
organization Mrs. Cornell is a member. The interment
was in the Prairie Chapel cemetery, about six miles
southeast of town, beside the remains of his father, the
late W. H. Cornell. The services were in charge of the
knights of Pythias, of which order the deceased was a
member, and largely attended by the many friends of
the family. -- Blackwell Daily News.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 December 1907
Sudden Death. -- William Nagle, aged 69 years was
found dead in what was formerly the Bluebell Saloon
[microfilm damaged] at 3 o’clock yesterday afternoon.
Parties who had been with him only a short time before
had left him sitting on a chair in apparently as good
health as usual, and returning found him lying on the
floor, evidently having fallen from the chair either
before or after death. The body was removed to
Hayden's undertaking rooms and will be buried from
there as soon as the coroner, who has been notified,
views the remains, as it is believed that an inquest will
not be necessary. The man had no relatives here. He
was a native of Ireland and as far as is known had no
relative in this country except a sister who resided
somewhere in New York, but whom he had not heard
from for many years. He came to the city two or three
years ago from Uncas, in this county, where he had
been employed in the stone quarries, since which time
he has not been employed in any regular work, having
sufficient means for his needs.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 December 1907
The body of Wm. Morgan, who died at the home
of Supt. Tope Saturday morning, was placed on the
early Sunday morning train, and accompanied by the
wife and children and Mrs. Jones, mother of Mrs.
Moran, started on the journey back to the home in
Jackson, Ohio. Mr. Morgan owned and published a
newspaper in Jackson and was a prominent man in that
community.
We hope to have an obituary for
publication in a later issue of this paper.
Prof. C. E. Tope, principal of the Mulhall public
schools, came up Saturday noon on account of the death
of Wm. Morgan at the home of his brother,
Superintendent Tope, that morning. He returned to his
work Sunday night.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 December 1907
In the case of William Nagle, who died suddenly
last Sunday afternoon, the coroner decided that an
inquest was not necessary and the body was buried
from the Hayden undertaking rooms last evening. rev.
Phillips conducting a brief funeral service.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 December 1907
The death of Wm. Morgan, at the home of
Superintendent R. E. Tope, Saturday morning, was one
of the saddest to occur in Ponca City. Mr. Morgan, his
wife and their children arrived in the city Friday
evening to visit the Tope family, coming from Jackson,
Ohio. The trip was expected to benefit Mr. Morgan's
health. At Newkirk the deceased became very sick and
when they reached Ponca City he had to be carried from
the train. He died at the Tope home Saturday morning
at five o'clock. The remains were taken back to Ohio
for burial. Mr. Morgan was the editor and publisher of
a newspaper at Jackson and one of the most prominent
citizens. He was a brother-in-law to Mr. Tope. The
bereaved ones have the sympathy of all in their
affliction.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 December 1907
Died.-- Wm. Nagle died at the old Bluebell saloon
building Sunday afternoon, at the age of 69 years. He
died suddenly, having been left by his friends sitting in
a chair in apparent good health. On returning to the
building his friends found him lying on the floor dead,
beside the chair. Deceased came to Ponca City about
ten years from the Uncas stone quarry where he had
been working, and was a familiar character of First
street, being general roustabout for the saloons on that
street. He had no relatives in this country except a
sister whom he had lost all trace of the past few years.
The coroner was notified and concluded there was no
need of an inquest, and the body was laid to rest in the
I.O.O.F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 12 December 1907
The three months old baby of Mr. and Mrs. N. C.
Reimer died at the family home east of town, Saturday
morning. The funeral was held from the home Sunday
afternoon, and the remains buried in the I.O.O.F.
cemetery. The bereaved parents have the sympathy of
all their friends in their sad affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 December 1907
A Pioneer Passes Away. -- This community was
startled last Saturday morning by the word that Captain
John A. Shaw had passed away. He had been up and
around, although ailing and that morning had been out
in the yard gathering Christmas greens. He went to the
house and complained of a severe pain in the region of
his heart, and this time his old enemy conquered and
relief was of no avail.
The funeral was from the family residence,
Tuesday morning conducted by Rev. G. W. McQuiddy,
of the Christian church; and the music was by the choir
of that church and interment was in the cemetery south
of town. [Blackwell I.O.O.F. cemetery] A large crowd
attested their appreciation of the deceased and his
family, by attending the funeral despite the almost
impassable roads. The local G. A. R. assisted in the
services.
Captain Shaw was one of the pioneers, coming
here at the opening and has been active in the building
of this great country. He was a zealous republican and
has for years been committeeman from his township,
and has occupied other positions of trust since living
here. He was a man of pronounced views upon all
subjects and had a host of friends who mourn with the
family, his death.
Capt. John A. Shaw was born in Baltimore, Md.,
Oct. 19, 1834, and his parents moved to St. Louis, Mo.,
when he was but three years of age, he was a westerner
in everything but birth. When 14 years old the family
moved to Green county, Illinois, where the deceased
lived until of age. His first move for himself was to
White county, Indiana, where he served as deputy
sheriff and sheriff, and where in 1854 he married Miss
Sarah Austin. To that union, five children were born,
four of whom survive-- James A. Shaw of Council
Grove, Kansas; Mrs. Etta Christian of Council Grove,
Kans.; Mrs. Theresa Noble of Humansville, Mo., and
John T. Shaw of Roodhouse, Ill., all of whom were
present at the funeral.
In 1862, Mr. Shaw answered the call of his country
and enlisted in the 122nd Illinois volunteers, and by
gallantry and efficient service came out as a captain, but
broken in health and fortune, for added to the rigors of
the campaign of Vicksburg, Corinth, Ft. Donelson,
Sherman's march, etc., he participated in the
engagement at Nashville, Dec 18, 1864, and there while
gallantly leading a charge received a wound in the head
and was left on the field for dead and did not receive
hospital aid until the 19th. For two years following he
suffered from his wound and in fact never fully
recovered from its ill effects.
Shortly after the war he moved with his family to
Holden, Mo., where his wife died, and later, in 1869 he
was married to Miss Catherine E. Wagoner, who
survives him. To them were born five children, two of
whom, L. A. and Rev. Shaw survive and were present
at the funeral.
In 1880 Captain Shaw served as sheriff of Johnson
county, Missouri. In 1885 he moved to Gray county
Kansas, where they lived until 1893 when he came to
173
this city with his wife and two sons. Louie and Roy,
and where they have since continuously lived. Captain
Shaw was a lover of home and of his fellow man, and
many a man can attest to his kindness. Rugged, honest,
kindhearted and charitable, he had the respect of all
who knew him and he will be sadly missed by his
family and this community. -- Blackwell Times-Record.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 9 January 1908
Resolutions. -- Whereas it has pleased the all-wise God,
in his infinite wisdom to remove from this earthly
sphere the aged father of our worthy brother Fred
Raynor, therefore be it Resolved, that the officers and
members of Ponca City Lodge No. 18, I.O.O.F., tender
Brother Raynor their heartfelt sympathy and
condolences in this sad hour of affliction.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 January 1908
Resolutions. -- whereas, it has pleased Almighty God
top remove from our midst our esteemed brother, W. R.
Chitwood, now therefore be it
Resolved, that we extend the heartfelt sympathy of
this lodge to the sorrowing father and relatives of our
deceased brother, that the charter of our Lodge be
draped for a period of thirty days, and be it further
Resolved, that these resolutions be spread upon the
minutes of the lodge a copy furnished to the press and a
copy be sent to the relatives. Batchelder Lodge No.
117, I.O.O.F.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 January 1908
Death of George Hachtel. -- George Hachtel, mention
of whose critical condition was made in these columns
yesterday afternoon, died at six o'clock last night at the
family home four miles west of town of injuries
received in a runaway last Thursday. The funeral was
held at the home at 1:30 this afternoon, the services
being conducted by Rev. D. Luther Edwards, pastor of
the Presbyterian church of this city and burial was made
in the I.O.O.F. cemetery. The funeral was very largely
attended, both by the neighbors of the family and
people from town. Mr. Bachtel being held in high
esteem by all who knew him. He leaves the wife and
six children, one daughter, aged about 14 years, and
five sons, all younger. His age was 67 years.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 15 January 1908
Was One of the Greybeards. -- John Bacher, the father
of E. E. Bacher of this city who died recently at the
national soldiers' home at Leavenworth, Kan., at the age
of 95 years, was one of the few survivors of the famous
"Greybeard" regiment that was organized at Dubuque,
Iowa, during the civil war, under an act of congress
providing for the formation of such regiment to be
composed of men over 45 years old. The regiment was
known as the 45th Iowa, and was composed of a
thousand man of the required age. John R. May, of this
city was a member of the 38th Iowa which was
174
stationed at St. Louis at the time the "Greybeards"
arrived there. He says all did not wear beards at the
time of enlistment, but did soon after, and it was a fine
sight to see the old fellows with their cropped hair and
bright blue uniforms and caps on dress parade. He says
he visited the regiment several times and it was just like
going to a revival meeting, they being quite a religious
body and conducting regular services. The most of
them were too old for active fighting, but helped to fill
up the army quota and made excellent guards. -Blackwell News.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 16 January 1908
Died. -- December 30, 1907, at her home in
Autwine, Okla. of Pneumonia, Rose Keeling, wife of
W. E. Keeling. The remains were taken to Schell (sic)
City, Mo., and buried in the Pleasant Grove Baptist
church cemetery, Shell City being the old home of the
deceased. She was born in McGucken county, Illinois,
March 2, 1872, and had been married the past twelve
years. She leaves husband and three children, Grace,
Gladys and Rose, to mourn her loss. The bereaved
husband and children have the sincere sympathy of all
in their hour of sadness.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 January 1908
Len Greer Killed. -- [microfilm damaged] while
engaged in switching cars in the Santa Fe yards at
Newton, C. L. Greer, formerly of this city received
injuries from which he died a few hours later. Both
lower limbs were crushed. He was placed aboard a
train to be taken to the company's hospital in Topeka,
but died on the way. His relatives here, the Middleton
family and his brother Arthur, were notified of his
death, and left last night for Augusta, Kansas, where the
body will be taken for burial.
Mr. Greer was well known in Ponca City, having
been employed in the Fowler & Gorr hardware store for
a number of years, and afterwards engaged in the
hardware business on his own account. About two
years ago he removed to Newton, Kansas, where he
secured a position as fireman on the Santa Fe railroad.
Not long ago he wrote the editor of this paper that he
was getting along nicely and expected to be promoted
to the position of engineer in a short time.
Everybody liked Len Greer and his friends were as
numerous as his acquaintances. He was active in
social, lodge and business affairs and was always
cheerful and companionable. This sad and sudden
death casts a shadow of sorrow over the entire
community. He was perhaps thirty-five years of age
and leaves a wife, but has no children. The relatives
have the sympathy of many friends in their
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 January 1908
Dr. Walter Schenck received a telegram this
morning informing him of the death of his son in
Kansas City and left for that place on the noon train.
The young man had been very low with consumption
for some time, and his death was not unexpected. He
was about 30 years old.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 January 1908
The funeral of Len Greer was held at Newton
[Kansas] last Saturday afternoon and burial was made
at Augusta, Kansas, the old home of the Greer and
Middleton families. A few more particulars of the
accident by which Len lost his life are given. It appears
that he was standing by his own engine in the yards,
when another engine came up unexpectedly and ran
him down, practically all the lower part of the body and
lower limbs being crushed.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 January 1908
Obituary. -- William Synard Wikoff was born
February 18, 1832, in Macon, Warren county, Ohio.
Died in Ponca City, Oklahoma, January 21, 1908.
He united with the Christian church in 1852, and
remained a member of that church until his death. In
1843 he was married to Mary E. Allen at Old Berlin,
Illinois. Of this union eleven children were born, nine
of whom, five sons and four daughters are still living.
Funeral services were held in the Christian church
in this city at 2 o'clock this afternoon, and burial was
made in the I.O.O.F. cemetery. The funeral was very
largely attended. Mr. Wikoff was a good man and a
good citizen, living an upright and blameless life, and
leaves to his children and neighbors the example of a
life well spent.
The aged wife and sorrowing sons and daughters
have the sympathy of many friends in their
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 23 January 1908
DEATH OF W. S. WIKOFF. -- William Synard
Wikoff died at his home in the Wylde addition,
Tuesday morning, January 20, 1908, aged 76 years.
Death was very sudden and unexpected, as Mr. Wikoff
was feeling as well as usual when he retired the night
before. About three o'clock Tuesday morning he awoke
his wife and complained of feeling bad. She wanted to
call a doctor, but he told her he thought he would get
better in a few minutes, and throwing his arm over his
head and turning over he became quiet. Mrs. Wikoff
thought that he had fallen asleep and she retired again.
When she awoke in the morning and called Mr. Wikoff
she found he was dead.
The funeral services were conducted from the
Christian church this afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev.
Phillips officiating, and the remains were laid to rest in
the I.O.O.F. cemetery, followed by a large crowd of
friends and neighbors of the deceased.
William Synard Wikoff was born in Mason,
Warren county, Ohio, February 18, 1832, and to this
union eleven children were born, nine of whom survive
him, five boys and four girls. He came to Ponca City
from Wymore, Nebraska, several years ago and has
been one of our best and most respected citizens. It can
be truly said of Father Wikoff that the world has been
made better by his having lived in it, and although his
body lies cold in the grave, his warm deeds of kindness
will live through coming generations.
The bereaved wife and children have the sympathy
of the entire community in their hour of sadness.
[A lengthy memorial, by William Schenck, to William
Synard Wykoff appears in the Saturday, February 29,
1908 edition of the Ponca City Daily Courier.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 January 1908
Perishes in the Flames. -- The farm house of Felix
Wooten, near Ralston was destroyed by fire Friday
night, Mr. Wooten perishing in the flames. As near as
can be learned--Mr. and Mrs. Wooten had been
spending the evening away, but had returned and after
making a fire to warm the room had retired. The
building caught, it is expected, from a defective fire,
and when Mrs. Wooten awoke, her husband was
already up trying to extinguish the flames. She
hurriedly left the house calling to him to come. They
could not save a thing. Mr. Wooten left the house with
her, but returned to secure a sum of money which was
in a trunk. While trying to get the money the walls of
the house fell in. When found, Mr. Wooten was near
the trunk. Mrs. Wooten is badly burned about the head,
arms and feet. She ran to her mother's about two miles
distant, in her night clothes to give the alarm.
Mr. and Mrs. Wooten had recently sold of
everything preparing to go to Mexico. The money in
the trunk was the proceeds of this sale. -- Pawhuska
Journal.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 January 1908
David Fronkier Dead. -- David Fronkier, one of the
old time residents of Pawhuska died on Tuesday. Mr.
Fronkier had not been in good health for some time, but
had been seriously ill with an affliction of the liver for
two weeks past. He has been at the home of Jasper
Rogers, where every care and attention has been given
in the hopes of his recovery.
Mr. Fronkier was about sixty years of age. He was
a member of the Kaw tribe of Indians, but had married
into the Osage tribe, his wife having died about a year
ago. His long residence here had made for him
hundreds of friends, who will regret to learn of his
death. The funeral services were held on Wednesday,
interment being in the local cemetery. -- Pawhuska
Capital
(Mr. Fronkier was an uncle of Mrs. J. S. Soldoni
and Mrs. A. G. Soldoni of this city, both of whom
attended the funeral at Pawhuska on Wednesday of this
week.)
175
from the Ponca City Democrat, 30 January 1908
Noah Lee, living five miles east of town in the
Bachelder neighborhood, received the sad news from
his father at Glasgow, Mo., last Monday, announcing
the death of his brother, Tom, at that place. Noah had
just received a letter, Saturday, stating that his brother
was getting better.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 5 February 1908
Obituary. -- Mrs. Bell Long, wife of B. L. Long, quit
the scenes of toil and suffering at about 7 a.m., Friday,
Jan. 24, 1908, aged thirty-nine years and ten days.
Bell Coy was born in Missouri, grew up in Kansas,
and there on Oct. 23, 1887, became the wife of B. L.
Long. They came to Oklahoma in 1893, and she soon
won the confidence and respect of a wide circle of
acquaintances.
Truly Mrs. Long was a helpmeet. She was
converted in the revival meeting in the house just east
of Prairie Chapel church in 1898, and was faithful to
her church duties until her health became too much
impaired. During her severe illness of about seven
weeks her faith in Christ and confidence in all
necessary provisions by Him for her eternal welfare
enabled her to face death with the assurance that "all
will be well." Saved herself, she was desirous to know
that all her relatives would meet her on the other side.
The funeral services were held at the church,
conducted by the pastor, W. G. Lemmon, and the very
large attendance proclaimed the high respect in which
the deceased was held. The husband and children have
many friends sympathizing with them. A Friend.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 February 1908
Mrs. Charles Stuever died at the family home five
and a half miles northwest of town last night or early
this morning. The cause of death and the time and
place of burial could not be learned today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 February 1908
In Memory of Carl Mack. -- The announcement is made
that the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad
company is contemplating the erection of a monument
near Red Rock in Northern Oklahoma to the memory of
Carl Mack, the veteran engineer who was scalded to
death under his engine last August. He had been in the
employee of the Santa Fe as an engineer more than
thirty years, and in the twenty-two years existence of
the Oklahoma division of the road he never missed a
day in making a run over the line with his passenger
engine.
A picture of No. 84, Mack's engine, showing the
veteran engineer at the cab window, is hanging in every
station along the main line and adorns the offices of the
chief officials of the system.
This picture was taken in Guthrie Monday
preceding the wreck on the following Thursday, when
Mack lost his life. The engineer is looking from his cab
176
window. Standing back of his is his fireman, C. J.
Danzer who was seriously injured in the wreck, and
beside the engine stands Al Glazier, who was in charge
of the train, but who escaped uninjured from the wreck.
Glazier is the oldest conductor on the Oklahoma
division and he and Carl Mack made hundreds of runs
together.
On the day the wreck occurred the train was
northbound from Purcell to Newton. In rounding a
curve at Red Rock the tender left the track. As the train
straightened out Mack tried to slow up without using
the air. It was impossible however, as the heavy tender
pulled from the train continually. Realizing that the
train would go over Mack applied the air. A shock
followed and the middle of the train receiving the
weight of the concussion, the cars seemed to leap into
the air, tearing loose the rails and ties. The coaches
piled upon the west side of the track, the engine on the
other. The mail car and Pullman left the track.
Engineer Carl Mack stayed by his engine and was
pinioned underneath being fatally scalded. He lived
only a short time after being extricated from the wreck.
His last words were to ask after the safety of the
passengers and to inquire if his engine was ruined. He
remarked: "I didn't think she would go back on me that
way."
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 February 1908
Resolutions. Miriam Rebekah Lodge, No. 16, I.O.O.F.
Whereas, it pleased the Supreme ruler of the
universe to remove from this earthly home the mother
of our sister, Jessie Webster, be it therefore
Resolved, That our sympathies be extended to the
bereaved sister and family in this their time of sorrow.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 2 March 1908
Card of Thanks. -- We desire to sincerely thank all of
our neighbors and friends who were so kind and
considerate during the recent illness and death of our
dear wife and mother. S. C. Nelson and children.
[Emma C. Nelson, b. 9 February 1853 - d. 25 February
1908.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 March 1908
SHERIFF FORD KILLED BY TRAIN. Falls Under
Passenger Coach at Ponca City. BODY TERRIBLY
MANGLED. Attempted to Jump from Moving Train
When Within Two Hundred Feet of the Depot Platform
--Death Was Almost Instantaneous. -- As Santa Fe
passenger train No. 405 was slowing up for the Ponca
City depot at 9:15 last night, the train being on time,
Syl G. Ford, sheriff of Kay county, who was coming
from the county seat on official business, attempted to
jump from the moving train while it was yet some two
or three hundred feet from the depot platform, fell
under the wheels and was literally ground to pieces, the
body being almost cut in two at the hips and lower
limbs crushed to jelly.
As the train came into town, Mr. Ford stood on the
bottom step of the car, while just behind him on the
steps above and on the platform stood L. B. Hart and D.
R. Driscoll, his deputies, and J. J. Whallon of this city.
When he jumped those behind him did not know he had
fallen under the wheels, but as soon as the train
stopped, which was not more than a minute afterwards,
they ran back and found him lying on the track, face
downward. They turned him over on his back and one
of the said to him, "Syl are you hurt?" "I am killed," he
said, and that was all. He was dead in less than five
minutes after the wheels struck him.
A jury was at once summoned by A. H. Erwin,
justice of the peace, who, after viewing the body
adjourned until 10 o'clock a.m. today. After hearing the
testimony, the jurors returned the following verdict:
State of Oklahoma, Kay County, At an inquisition
holden at Ponca City, Kay county, on the 9th day of
March, A. D. 1908, before me, A. H. Erwin, justice of
the peace of said county, upon the body of Sil (sic) G.
Ford, lying dead, by the persons whose names are
hereunto subscribed, the said jurors upon their oath do
say that Sil G. Ford came to his death by being run over
by Santa Fe train number 405 at Ponca City, Oklahoma,
March 9, 1908, at about 9:15 o'clock p.m.
In witness whereof, the said jurors have hereunto
set their hands the day and year aforesaid. Frank
Castator, F. W. Wallace, James VanWinkle, R. E.
Morrison, N. A. McDowell, A. W. Bemis.
Attest: A. H. Erwin, Justice of Peace.
After being viewed by the coroner's jury, the body
was carried to Hayden's undertaking rooms where it
was prepared for burial. On the 7:33 train this morning
it was taken to the home in Newkirk, where it is
understood the funeral services will be held at 10 a.m.
tomorrow.
Mr. Ford was about 47 years of age and leaves a
wife and two children, a son and daughter, the son
being a student n the State University at Norman. The
daughter is about 17 years old and the son about 20. In
the election held last fall he was elected sheriff of this
county, and died like a soldier, in the line of duty. It is
understood that his object in jumping from the car
before it reached the depot platform was to avoid being
seen by parties for whom he had warrants, and who
might possibly endeavor to evade arrest if they saw him
in time. He had been in office only since the 16 of last
November and was making a good record. His sudden
death, under attendant circumstances is one of the most
deplorable that this writer has ever been called upon to
chronicle. To the stricken family the sympathy of many
friends is extended in full measure, pressed down and
running over, which it is hoped may serve to alleviate
by some degree the deep sorrow with which they have
been stricken.
As we understand it, Deputy Sheriff L. B. Hart
becomes acting sheriff and will discharge the duties of
the office until Mr. Ford's successor is appointed by the
board of county commissioners.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 17 March 1908
Mrs. Mamie Tippett, wife of Truman Tippett,
died at the home in Cross at 12 o'clock last night aged
19 years. She had been sick since the birth of her child
in December, and the baby is left motherless. Not time
has yet been set for the funeral, as friends at a distance
have not been heard from.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 March 1908
The funeral of Mrs. Truman Tippett, notice of
whose death was made in these columns a day or two
ago, was held at the home of Mr. Campbell in Cross at
3 o'clock yesterday afternoon, the services being
conducted by Rev. W. W. Hallam, assisted by Rev. S.
S. Phillips. Her parents, B. R. Foltz and wife, of
Beaver county, were present at the funeral. A sister,
Mrs. Hadden, of Grand Junction, Colorado, missed a
train and will not arrive until this evening. Mrs. Tippett
was about 19 years of age and leaves a husband and one
child--a son, three months old--and many friends and
relatives to mourn her untimely death. She was a sister
of Mrs. S. H. Chenoweth of this city.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 April 1908
The body of Mrs. Marzella Bryer, which was
brought here from Richards, Texas, a week ago, was
buried from the Hayden undertaking rooms at 10:30
today. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. D.
Luther Edwards, pastor of the Presbyterian church. The
relatives on account of whose absence the funeral had
been delayed, arrived last night.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 April 1908
Word was received here this morning from Newton
announcing that B. Warkentine had been killed in a
railroad accident at Naples, Italy. Mr. Warkentine, who
is president of the Blackwell Mill and Elevator
company, was touring Europe with his wife and had
expected to spend three months at his old home in
southern Russia. The announcement came as a shock to
Mr. Warkentine's many friends in this city. Carl
Warkentine, the son who lives at Newton, left
immediately for Naples. -- Blackwell Times-Record
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 April 1908
Mrs. Ester Donahoe Dead. -- Mrs. Ester Donahoe,
widow of the late Timothy Donahoe, died at the family
residence on South Seventh street yesterday evening,
after a lingering illness which she bore bravely and
patiently. She was nearly seventy-five years of age at
the time of there death and the record of those years are
a monument of honor to the deceased.
Braving the hardships of pioneer life in Wisconsin,
she toiled early and late that her children--ten in
177
number--might have the benefit of a home and an
education.
Her six sons grew to manhood, Frank, the
youngest, died at Tonkawa eight years ago, and the
other five are honored citizens of Oklahoma. Of her
four daughters two are School-Sisters of Notre Dame in
Milwaukee, Wis., while the remaining two are residents
of Ponca.
The eleventh child, an adopted daughter whose life
has been surrounded by love and care, is another proof
of the goodness of her heart.
There are also nine grandchildren whom she loved
with a devotion that brightened and cheered her
declining years.
She has lived a simple Christian life. A devout
Catholic; her religion has been her greatest comfort,
and she died as she had live, surrounded by the
blessings of her religion, at peace with god and man.
The funeral services will take place tomorrow at
the house at 9:00 o'clock a.m., and in the Catholic
church at 9:30. Interment will be made in the Catholic
cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 April 1908
Mrs. Catherine Klopp died at 5 o'clock this
morning at the home of her son, C. W. Klopp, five
miles east of Ponca City aged 77 years. The funeral
will be held in the Longwood Baptist church next
Sunday, April 26, at 2:30 p.m.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 April 1908
Mrs. Altissa McDonald received a telegram today
stating that her brother, Frank R. Elliott, died at his
home in Pueblo, Colorado, at 7 o'clock this morning.
Mr. Elliott visited his sister here for some weeks last
winter, and it was thought at that time that he was
making progress toward recovery from the disease with
which he was afflicted, consumption.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 23 April 1908
Mrs. Ester Donahoe died at the home of her son,
E. I. Donahoe, in the third ward, Wednesday afternoon,
April 22, 1908, at the ripe old age of 74 years. Death
was not unexpected, as she had been a sufferer for the
past year, and the past few weeks had been very low.
None of the family of children were present at the time
of her death except her daughter, Miss Ellen. The
funeral will be held from the Catholic church Friday,
Rev. Father Sevens officiating, and the remains will be
laid in the Catholic cemetery. The children have the
heartfelt sympathy of the community in their
bereavement.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 April 1908
S. H. Foltz, father of Mrs. S. H. Chenoweth, died
at the home in Cross at five o'clock this morning, after a
long illness, aged 77 years and 11 days. The funeral
services will be held in the Christian church at 2:30
178
tomorrow afternoon and interment will be made in the
Ponca City cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 April 1908
funeral of Mother Donahoe. -- The funeral services for
Mother Donahoe, who died Wednesday night, were
held in the Catholic church at 9:30 this morning. The
services were conducted by Father Dupre of Blackwell
and Father Sevens of this city, and were beautiful and
impressive, as befitted the model Christian woman and
mother whose life has been a benediction to all who
came within the circle of her beneficent influence. In
his sermon, Father Sevens spoke not as a priest or
spiritual adviser, but as one who had learned lessons of
humility, faith and charity at a mother's knee, and his
tribute to the good and faithful mother was one which
touched the hearts and finer feelings, of all who heard
it. The church was crowded and many stood at the
doors, during the services.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 April 1908
Resolutions. Resolutions of sympathy and respect
adopted by Ponca City Camp No. 7092 Modern
Woodmen of America, as a tribute to the memory of
Neighbor Charley Hurst.
Whereas, the angel of death has entered our camp
and taken from our midst our beloved neighbor, Charles
Hurst.
Resolved, That we as a camp do deeply mourn the
death of our beloved neighbor and extend to his
bereaved wife and family our sincere sympathy, and
assure them while they mourn the loss of a husband and
father we mourn the loss of a true neighbor. And be it
further
Resolved, That the kindly sympathy and protection
of our society be extended to the wife and family.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 25 April 1908
Mrs. Catherine Klopp, a sister of Jude W. D. and
Jake Kreamer, died yesterday at the home of her son C.
W. Klopp, five miles east of Ponca City. She was 77
years of age and has been in poor health for some time.
Her two brothers in this city [Arkansas City] visited her
two weeks ago. Mrs. Klopp's funeral will be held in the
Longwood Baptist church. Sunday afternoon at 2:30
o'clock, and will be attended by a number of relatives
from here. -- Arkansas City X-Rays
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 April 1908
Sudden Death. -- A man known here as Gene Booth,
died suddenly at the Santa Fe depot at 8 o'clock this
morning. He had been suffering from obstruction of the
bowels for two or three days and was being treated by
Dr. Germain in his office, being broke and having no
place to stay. This morning it was decided to send him
to Wichita for an operation and he died while being
placed in the baggage car of the north bound Santa Fe
train this morning. At one time he was a resident of
this city and was quite well known here by some of the
older settlers. He had been away for several years, but
returned here a few days ago for the purpose, as he
stated, of engaging in the insurance business. He was
40 years of age. He had no relatives here, but it is
understood that he has a son and daughter in Evansville,
Illinois. The body is at Hayden's undertaking rooms,
where it will be held until relatives can be heard from.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 30 April 1908
C. R. Foltz and Mrs. H. Kleeberger, son and
daughter of S. H. Foltz, who died in Cross last week,
returned to their homes in Beaver and Woodward
counties yesterday.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 30 April 1908
Gene Booth, one of the old timers who had just
returned to Ponca City from Tulsa died suddenly
Monday morning while being placed on the train to be
taken to Wichita for treatment in a hospital. He had
been sick only a few days. The body was removed to
Hayden's undertaking rooms and Wednesday the
remains were laid to rest in the Odd Fellows' cemetery.
His former friends here donated to a fund to buy a lot in
the cemetery and for funeral expenses and he received a
decent burial. He was 56 years old and has a son and
daughter living in Illinois.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 2 May 1908
The mother of Dr. A. B. Sweet of this city died at
the home of her daughter, Mrs. Dr. Vandevort, in
Guthrie, on Thursday of this week. The funeral was
held in Guthrie yesterday at 3 p.m., and the body,
accompanied by Dr. Sweet and Mrs. Vandevort, was
taken to the old home in Byron, Wisconsin, for burial.
Speaking of the deceased, the Guthrie Capital says:
dying at the advanced age of 90 years, the mother of
Mrs. Vandevort, was buried yesterday afternoon at
three o'clock. She was a remarkable woman in some
respects and was of a higher grade of intelligence and
strength of mind than the average, and her long life had
in it many things of interest to the younger generation
of today who know nothing of the lives of people fifty
and sixty years ago.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 May 1908
Death of Aged Citizen. -- S. H. Foltz, a well known
and respected citizen of Cross, Friday morning at 4:45
o'clock, April 24 at the age of 76 years and 12 days.
Death was due to a general breaking down induced by
his advanced years. The deceased was ill for some time
previous to his demise with a complication of diseases.
The deceased was born April 12, 1832 in
Hummelstown, Dauphin county, Pennsylvania. In after
years he moved to Iowa, where he lived until 1893,
coming to Oklahoma with the opening of the Strip and
has resided here ever since. On October 18, 1855 he
was united in marriage to Miss Mary Hooser, a resident
of Pennsylvania. To this union was born nine children,
five boys and four girls. They are Christian B. of Texas
county, Okla.; Jacob L. Foltz and Mrs. Hiram Rhodes,
of Morning Side, Sioux City, Iowa; John and Lee of
Alfalfa county, Kola; Ben of Comanche county, Okla.,
and Mrs. Stephen Chenoweth, of Ponca City.
The deceased was christened in the Lutheran faith,
never having been a member of a church, but became
reconciled in the Christian faith.
During his lifetime here in Cross he maintained an
active interest in public matters, having been chairman
of the school board at the time of his death.
Possessed of ideal qualities, Mr. Foltz endeared
himself to every one he met. As husband and father he
was of a kind disposition, honest and conscientious.
His death has cast a shadow of sorrow over his
many acquaintances and the community will deeply
mourn and feel his departure. His loving companion
and children have the sympathy of their many friends.
A Friend. [The same obituary also appears in the 7 May
1908 issue of the Ponca City Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 May 1908
Colonel Poor Horse, a prominent Ponca Indian, died at
his home near White Eagle at 4 o'clock this morning of
heart disease, aged 50 years. Burial will be made in the
Whit Eagle cemetery this evening.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 May 1908
Stacy Reed, a bachelor living near Eddy in this
county, committed suicide Sunday evening by shooting
himself with a revolver. His aged mother, who lived
near him, found the body near the house soon after the
shooting. A hand mirror, by the aid of which he had
evidently taken aim, was lying by his side.
Despondency over ill health is supposed to have been
the cause. The deceased was about 45 years of age and
was well to do, owning a fine farm which he
homesteaded at the time of the opening. He was a
brother of J. W. Reed, the well known breeder of
Poland China hogs.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 May 1908
Obituary. -- Rev. E. N. Doughty died at his home near
Floris, Okla., April 27, 1908, at 5 o'clock, after a four
month's illness with cancer of the stomach. The
patience and enduring faith with which he bowed to
God's will was an honor to, and a characteristic of the
Christian life he so long had led.
Mr. Doughty was 66 years, 4 months and 19 days
old at the time of his death, much of this time having
been spent as a minister of the Protestant Methodist
church. He was a bright and shining light to all who
knew him, but to none more than his family, being a
devoted husband and father.
The deceased leaves a wife and eight children, five
boys and three girls; George of Kansas City, Mo.; C. L.
of Carthage, Mo.; Mrs. Anna Gunn of El Campo,
179
Texas; L. A. of Marshall, Mo.; Mrs. Hattie Edwards, of
Lebanon, Mo.; Mrs. Effie Campbell of Floris, Okla.;
two single sons, Roy and Otis; two sisters, Mrs. Mary
Anderson, of Lecompton, Kan., and Mrs. Sen Angel of
Oskaloosa, Kan.; and one brother, D. J. Doughty, of
Ponca City, Okla., to mourn their deep loss, besides a
host of friends and neighbors. Mrs. Campbell, Roy and
Otis were the only children home with the bereaved
wife at the time of his death. His son, L. A. visited him
during his last illness, but was not permitted to remain.
The others were unable to leave their homes.
The funeral was conducted by Rev. R. W.
Adkinson, and the remains laid to rest in the M. E.
cemetery six miles north of Beaver City, Oklahoma.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 28 May 1908
The funeral services of Clarence Neff, son of Mr.
and Mrs. John Neff, formerly residents of this city, now
from Pawnee, was held in Longwood township Sunday,
the sermon being preached by Rev. Underwood.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 May 1908
The little two-year-old daughter of E. M.
Constant and wife, living three miles northeast of
Blackwell, died very suddenly last Tuesday from an
unusual cause. It is said that the child had been eating a
considerable quantity of cherries and then drank a cup
of sweet milk. Convulsions followed and death ensued
before a physician could be summoned from town. The
little girl was their only child. [Vera Constant, b. 1906
- d. 1908.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 5 June 1908
Death of W. E. Headley. -- A telegram from Tygh
Valley, Oregon, via The Dalles, received here
yesterday, announces the death at that place on that date
of W. E. Headley, brother of the editor of this paper.
Previous to going to Oregon to visit a sister which
he did something less than a year ago, deceased had
made his home in Ponca City with the family of the
editor of this paper for a couple of years, and was quite
well known here. He was a member of the Grand Army
Post at this place.
He was born in Ohio, and removed to Iowa, where,
in April, 1861, at Waterloo, he enlisted as a private in
the third Iowa Battery, at first attached to the Ninth
Iowa Cavalry. A brother, Albert B. Headley, enlisted in
the Battery with him at the same time. Later, the
Battery was detached from the regiment and became an
independent organization under command of Captain
Lyon and he, was promoted to Orderly sergeant. It
served through the war, being practically all the battles
of the southwest, notable the three days engagement at
Peal Ridge, where the battery lost part of its guns,
which were later recovered. The younger brother took
180
part in this engagement, but never returned, being
buried as a soldier in southern soil.
The subject of this sketch had a long and arduous
service to his credit amounting in the aggregate to four
years and six months continuous presence in the field.
He escaped without serious bodily injury from rebel
bullets, but was more or less broken in health as a result
of exposure in camp, on the march and on the field of
battle. In his later years he saw little comfort from the
ravages of disease, but he bore it all like a soldier
without complaint.
In a letter received here not long ago, he said he
was enjoying his sojourn in Oregon, and expected in a
few days to make a trip to the coast for the purpose of
witnessing the passage of the American battleship fleet
on its way from Los Angeles to San Francisco, since
which time no more had been heard from him until the
brief telegram announcing his death, from which it is
inferred that the final summons came suddenly and
unexpectedly, with only time for the soldierly salute
and answer of "here" to the last roll call.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 11 June 1908
The eight months old baby girl of Rev. and Mrs. S. S.
Phillips died Friday afternoon of spinal meningitis.
The funeral services were held at the Christian church
Saturday afternoon, conducted by Rev. W. W. Hallum,
with interment in the I.O.O.F. cemetery. The bereaved
parents have the sympathy of all their friends in the loss
of their dear baby.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 June 1908
Death of William Morgan. -- William Morgan died at
the Planters hotel in this city at 8:30 this morning, aged
72 years. He had not been in good health for some
time, but was able to be about his work until last
Saturday, when he was taken seriously ill and failed
rapidly until death came as a welcome relief from
suffering. Everything possible was done for him by
physicians and by his good friend, John Bowman, who
cared for him faithfully until the end.
William Morgan was an Irishman by birth, coming
to this country in his youth. At the opening of the
Cherokee Strip to settlement he secured a claim just
west of the Chilocco school reservation in this county,
which is now a valuable farm and which he owned at
the time of his death. His wife, son and daughter and
an elder brother reside at Arkansas City are said to be
quite wealthy. For some unknown reason he has not
made his home with his family, but has lived here in
Ponca City, almost like a hermit, working industriously
at his trade as a shoemaker a number of years in the
Seybold shoe store and latterly in the shop of Victor
Gronholm. His son and daughter, L. S. Morgan and
Miss Mary Morgan, came down from Arkansas City
last night and will take the body to that place for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 June 1908
Mrs. Koller Dead. -- Mrs. J. H. Koller who was taken
to the Wichita hospital last Saturday morning to be
operated upon for appendicitis, died in the hospital at
11 o'clock this morning after the operation had been
performed. Word was received here yesterday that she
was in a critical condition and all the family not already
there went up to Wichita on the next train. The family
will arrive here tonight on the 9:15 train with the body
and it is expected that the funeral will be held
Wednesday. This is one of the saddest afflictions that
has ever befallen this community and sympathy for the
husband and children is universal.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 June 1908
Death of Mrs. Koller. One of Ponca City's Pioneer
Citizens Passes Away. -- Died. -- At the Wichita
hospital, Monday morning, June 22, 1908, from the
effects of appendicitis, Mrs. Kate Koller, wife of our
fellow townsman, John H. Koller.
Mrs. Koller was taken to Wichita last Saturday
morning to be operated upon for appendicitis. Word
was received here that she was in a critical condition
and all the family of children went to Wichita on the
next train and were at their mother's bedside when
death came.
The remains were brought to Ponca City Monday
evening and the funeral services were conducted form
the Christian church Wednesday at 2 o'clock p.m., the
funeral preached by Rev. S. S. Phillips, the pastor,
assisted by Dr. Walter Schenck, a friend of the family,
who had been requested to make a few remarks. The
church was crowded with relatives and friends, and the
funeral procession was about the largest ever witnessed
in Ponca City. The business houses were all closed
during the services to show the respect for the deceased
and family.
Mrs. Koller was one of the first ladies to come to
Ponca City after the Strip opening, and her friends one
and all have learned to love her, and her memory will
ever be cherished in Ponca City.
The grief stricken husband and children, have the
sympathy of all in their dark hour of sad bereavement.
[A lengthy tribute by Dr. Walter Schenck appears in the
June 27, 1908 issue of the Ponca City Daily Courier. It
has no additional genealogical information, but does list
the names of the children: Bertha, nor Mrs. J. A.
Robinson; Gussie, now Mrs. J. T. McClelland; Harry
and Ed and Earl, all married but Earl.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 25 June 1908
William Morgan Dead. -- Wm. Morgan, one of Ponca
City's aged and respected citizens, died at the Planters
hotel, Monday morning, June 22. Mr. Morgan had
been in poor health for the past year, but was able to be
at work at his trade, that of shoemaker, until last
Saturday, when he was taken ill, and from which he
never recovered. His son and daughter L. S. Morgan
and Mary Morgan came down from Arkansas City
Sunday evening and were present when death came.
The remains were taken to Arkansas City for interment.
Wm. Morgan was born in Ireland and was brought
to this country by his parents when a mere boy. At the
opening of settlement of this country he filed on a claim
west of the Chilocco reservation, which farm he owned
at the time of his death. He was an eccentric character,
living alone in Ponca City for a number of years, and
with but few associates, minding his own business and
letting other people's business alone; his wife and
daughter live in Arkansas City. His old time friend
John Bowman was with him and cared for him during
his brief illness.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 June 1908
Miss Edith Wainscott died at 8:30 o'clock this
morning at her home in this city of typhoid fever, aged
27 years. Miss Wainscott was until recently one of our
efficient and popular telephone girls and was
universally liked and respected for her many good
qualities. Her parents are both dead and she had no
relatives here except her younger sister, Etta, who lived
with her. The funeral services will be held at the
Christian church tomorrow afternoon at 2:30 o'clock.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 June 1908
Obituary. -- Edith Wainscott was born in Butler, Bates
county, Missouri; died in Ponca City, Oklahoma,
Saturday, June 27, 1908, aged 27 years.
She came here with her family in 1894 and resided
on the farm in Longwood township until the death of
her father, which occurred three years ago. She then
made her home in Ponca City, and for the last two years
has been employed by the telephone company. She
leaves two sisters, Miss Etta Wainscott here in Ponca
City, and Mrs. James Kendrick of Hominy, Okla., and
five brothers, E. R., Will, Martin, Edgar, and Arthur,
none of them residing here at present.
Edith and her sister Etta had made their home
together here in Ponca City, being held in the highest
esteem by our people. They had both been employed in
the telephone office and were respected and loved by
their associates.
The funeral services were held in the Christian
church at 2:30 Sunday afternoon, being attended by
many sympathizing friends. The Royal Neighbors
lodge and all the employees of the telephone company
were present with many beautiful floral offerings.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 2 July 1908
T. C. Weeden died at his home northeast of the
city Monday, and was buried at Oak Grove cemetery,
yesterday. Mr. Weeden was one of the oldest settlers of
the county and one of our most respected citizens.
[Talman C. Weedin, b. 1834 - d. 1908.]
181
from the Ponca City Democrat, 2 July 1908
Died. -- At a hospital in Wichita, Tuesday
Afternoon, after an operation had been performed for
gallstone, S. C. Clymer, a prominent Osage lessee.
The body was brought to Ponca City on the evening
train. The funeral arrangements will be made later.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 July 1908
Obituary. -- Benjamin Brewer was born in Henry
county, Iowa, May 20, 1849, and died at his home in
Arkansas City, Kansas, June 29, 1908, at the age of 59,
years 1 month and 9 days.
While a small boy, he moved with his parents to
Page county, Iowa, where he grew to manhood. He
was united in marriage to Amanda E. Duncan,
November 16, 1871, by Rev. A. E. Lovejoy, of the
Methodist Episcopal church. The following spring he
moved with his wife to Lincoln county, Kansas. To this
union were born ten children. Five sons and five
daughters, all of whom are living except the eldest son
who died in his fifteenth year. Mr. Brewer moved with
his family to Kay county, Oklahoma, in 1895, where he
lived until the fall of 1900 when he moved to his farm a
few miles northeast of Arkansas City, where he resided
until less than a year ago when he moved to his late
residence in this city.
Mr. Brewer was converted and united with the
Methodist Episcopal church in March, 1877, and
remained an active and faithful member until his death.
He was an ardent advocate of temperance and civic
righteousness. He helped to purchase the plant and start
the "Searchlight," a temperance organ of this city, and
was at one time its editor. By this means and as
president of the local and county Civic leagues, with his
money and by personal effort, he was one of the prime
movers in getting good men into office and in securing
a better enforcement of law in both city and county.
He passed away peacefully, trusting in the Savior
whom he had served for many years. -- Arkansas City
Traveler.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 July 1908
The funeral services for the late Simon C. Clymer
were held at the Baptist church at 2 o'clock this
afternoon, the attendance being larger than the church
could accommodate. The funeral sermon by Rev. I. C.
Underwood, pastor of the church is spoken of as a
particularly thoughtful and impressive discourse, and
the music was excellent. Mr. Clymer was a quiet and
unobtrusive man, attending strictly to his large business
affairs, and therefore not widely known among our
people, but those who were intimate with him held him
in the highest esteem. In his death the community loses
one of its best citizens and the family its strong and sure
reliance.
182
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 July 1908
W. D. Bryan and wife and Dennis Mooney and
family attended the funeral of Mrs. Fred Bower at
Arkansas City yesterday. They say that the funeral was
very largely attended, the house, dooryard and street
being crowded with people during the services.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 July 1908
Held for Manslaughter. -- The coroner's jury in the case
of Mrs. Fred Bower killed at Arkansas City last
Wednesday evening, returned a verdict, charging Harry
Scott and Ira Brecount with criminal negligence in
causing the death of Mrs. Bower, or in other words
manslaughter in the fourth degree. They were placed
under bond in the sum of $1,000 each, which they gave,
and the preliminary hearing was set for July 7 at 9
o'clock a.m. The punishment for the crime with which
they are charged, as fixed by the Kansas law, is
imprisonment at hard labor for a term not exceeding
two years or confinement in the county jail for not less
than six months.
The funeral of Mrs. Bower was held from the
residence in Arkansas City a 2 o'clock yesterday
afternoon and was very largely attended.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 July 1908
F. M. Hathaway, a resident of Ponca City, who
has been in the city [Arkansas City] for the past three
weeks taking treatment for typhoid fever, died last night
at 7:30 o'clock. Mr. Hathaway was nearly well and
would have been able to be out in another day or two,
had not complications set in. The direct cause of his
death was heart disease. The deceased was about 55
years of age. He has no family, but lived with his niece
in Ponca City. A brother of the deceased, whose home
is in Chanute, has been notified of the death and will
arrive in the city this evening. Until he arrives the
funeral arrangements will not be made. -- Arkansas City
Traveler
from the Ponca City Democrat, 30 July 1908
Died -- Bertha Bride, wife of C. A. Bride, died at her
home in Ponca City Friday morning last, after a long
spell of sickness. Funeral services were held from the
Catholic church, Saturday morning, with interment in
the Catholic cemetery. Deceased was 27 years of age
and leaves a husband and two children to mourn her
loss. They have the sympathy of the entire community
in their sad hour of trouble.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 August 1908
Engineer Frey Dead. -- Word reached the city this
morning bringing a universal feeling of sadness to all,
that Engineer Fred Frey, of the Santa Fe, who was
injured in the collision at Perry, between passenger
train No. 18 and a Frisco switch engine, Tuesday
evening, died last night at 11 o'clock in the Santa Fe
hospital at Topeka. It is understood that he never
regained consciousness.
The body will be brought here on train No. 17,
tomorrow morning, and the funeral will be held here
[Arkansas City], but the hour and place cannot be
announced until tomorrow.
Engineer Frey was about forty years of age and had
been in the employ of the Santa Fe, running out of here
since 1880.
He was universally liked, and the
expressions of sorrow at his untimely death are many.
By the Santa Fe he has regarded as one of its most
faithful employees, and by his neighbors and friends as
a manly man and good citizen. -- Arkansas City X-Rays
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 August 1908
Ada L. Hadduck, aged 27 years, died at the home
of her parents, A. J. and Amanda Hadduck, ten miles
northeast of town, at 5 o'clock yesterday afternoon, of
paralysis. The funeral was held at the Free Methodist
church in that neighborhood at three o'clock this
afternoon, the services being conducted by the pastor,
Rev. Davendort.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 August 1908
Obituary. -- Mrs. Bertha Bride, who died at her home
in this city a short time ago, was a woman of
exceptionally fine character, and is a loss not only to
the family but to the community in which she lived.
She was born in Illinois, on May 13, 1881, and
with her parents came to Kansas at an early age, and
later to Oklahoma. She was married to Charles Bride at
Perry, Oklahoma eight years ago, and to their union two
fine boys were given; Paul born May 17, 1902, and
Charles born October 20, 1903.
Besides her husband and two sons, her parents,
William and Ellen Chaney, a sister and three brothers
are left to mourn the loss of a loved member of their
family, but as she was a great sufferer for the past two
years, and with no prospect of relief, death came to her
as a ministering angel and her loved ones have the great
satisfaction of knowing that she was brave and
courageous in the most trying ordeals of life and that
she bore her sickness with Christian resignation and
was cheerful to the last.
Her life was short but beautiful in its calm
resignation to the will of God, and may all who have
had the great pleasure of her love and friendship here
on earth so live that they may be worthy to meet her in
the life beyond the grave. [This same obituary also
appears in the 13 August 1908 issue of the Ponca City
Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 8 August 1908
Mrs. Wm. McCaig (Mary) died yesterday
morning at the hospital in Wichita, where she had gone
to receive medical treatment. The remains were
brought to the home in this city last evening and the
funeral services will be held from the St. Felix Catholic
church tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock. The death of
Mrs. McCaig will cause sincere sorrow among her
numerous friends in this city. The immediate cause of
her death was an operation which she was compelled to
undergo in the hope of regaining her health.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 August 1908
At 6 o'clock Saturday morning, in a fit of jealous
rage, Mrs. Mollie Creed shot and killed her husband,
Charles C. Creed, at their home in Arkansas City.
Four shots were fired, anyone of which would have
proven fatal. Creed was a painter. The woman is said
to have been insanely jealous. She is at present
confined in the Cowley county jail.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 12 August 1908
On Saturday a man named Miller, who had been
visiting relatives near Autwine, was drowned while
seining with others for fish at the mouth of the
Chikaskia. The body was not found until Sunday about
noon, when it indicated the man had been taken with
cramps and drowned before help could reach him. He
leaves a wife and six children, and his body was
shipped back to his home in Missouri for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 August 1908
Card of Thanks. -- We, the undersigned, desire to thank
our friends and neighbors who so kindly assisted us
during the late illness, death and burial of our beloved
wife and sister. Wm. McCaig, Sarah McDonald,
Emmett McDonald
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 August 1908
Obituary. -- The whole community was shocked a few
days ago upon learning the untimely death of Mrs.
Mary McCaig, at Wichita, whither she had gone in the
hope of regaining health by means of a surgical
operation. Even after the finger of disease had touched
the vital spark, her ever pleasant ways and smiling
countenance had hidden the awful impending secret
from her closest friends. But when death came to her,
he found her not unprepared. Religion had early
molded in her a beautiful character, and from the path
of duty and rectitude she never knowingly swerved.
Mrs. McCaig was born in Canada on September
23, 1850. She was the daughter of Michael and
Elizabeth McDonald. Less than a year ago she was
wedded to Captain William McCaig, who is left to
mourn the irreparable loss of a truly devoted wife. May
her soul rest in peace. [This same obituary is also
published in the 20 August 1908 issue of the Ponca
City Democrat.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 August 1908
Resolutions. -- Resolutions of sympathy and respect of
Hayes-Fairchild Post No. 24, G. A. R.
Whereas the angel of death has entered the home of
our comrade and brother, W. M. McCaig and removed
183
from his presence his beloved wife and companion.
Therefore be it
Resolved, by the members of this post that we
hereby tender to the bereaved comrade our sympathy
and condolence in this, his hour of affliction, hoping
that he may be able to see beyond the gloom of the
grave, the brighter and happier life that is the natural
heritage of all.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 August 1908
News came in over the telephone last night that a
man had been drowned in the Arkansas river in the East
Bend neighborhood just east of Blackburn. Details,
however, were unobtainable until this morning, when it
was learned that the drowned man was W. K.
McCracken of Pawhuska. McCracken and J. C. Cook
of Bug creek, together with their families, were camped
on the Osage side of the river, spending a few days
fishing. They had been there since Tuesday and were
to have been in Blackburn yesterday afternoon to look
after business matters. McCracken was out on a raft
setting a net when he lost his footing and fell into deep
water. Being unable to swim, he was soon swept
beyond hope of rescue. His wife, almost frantic, was
forced to see him drown without being able to do
anything to aid him. -- Blackburn News, 14th.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 18 August 1908
Card of Thanks. -- We return sincere thanks to the
friends and neighbors for their attentions, assistance and
sympathy during the illness and at the death of our little
one. Such kindness can never be forgotten. Oscar
Nelson and family [Frances Mae Nelson, b. 5 Mar
1908 - d. 11 Aug 1908, parents, Oscar and Ethel; buried
in Longwood Cemetery.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 20 August 1908
F. D. Woolbert died at his home on north Seventh
street, Friday, of typhoid fever. The remains were
taken to Kansas, the former home of the deceased, for
burial. He leaves a wife and child to mourn his death.
The family has only resided in Ponca City a short
while.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 21 August 1908
Dr. Vennum Dead. -- Dr. L. A. Vennum, the well
known veterinary surgeon, died at his home corner
Fifth and Padon, in this city [Blackwell], Monday, Aug.
17, after an illness of five weeks of typhoid fever. The
funeral was from the Methodist church Tuesday
afternoon and interment was in the [Blackwell] Odd
Fellows cemetery south of the city. In the absence of
Rev. E. B. Cole, the pastor, the services were conducted
by Rev. Thomison, the evangelist.
Dr. Vennum was 54 years of age, and had been a
resident of this city for about three and a half years. He
was a man of more than ordinary ability in his
profession, and had a large circle of friends who will
184
with the family miss his genial companionship. -Blackwell Times-Record.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 August 1908
Obituary. -- Sarah Frances Reynolds was born in St.
Clair county, Mo., February 2, 1872. She was united in
marriage with Charles Davidson, September 2, 1888.
To them were born four children, Ira, Bertha, now Mrs.
Baughman, Ester deceased, and Everett.
Mrs.. Davidson united with the M. E. church on
probation, November 8, 1903, and was received into
full membership July 10, 1904, during the pastorate of
Rev. H. H. Miller. About two years ago they moved to
Kansas, but returned to Oklahoma in January 1908.
She died in the hospital at Guthrie, August 24, aged 36
years, 6 months and 22 days.
She was a faithful members of the church and in
great humility and meekness of spirit gave glowing
testimony of her abiding faith and trust in the Lord
Jesus as her Savior. In the church, prayer meeting,
class meeting and home we shall miss her, but in
Heaven we shall meet her, if we are but faithful unto
death. [This obituary also appears in the Ponca City
Democrat on 27 August 1908.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 27 August 1908
DROWNED IN TURKEY CREEK. Little girl Seven
Years Old Lost While Bathing. WAS CHILD OF
MOVERS. The Efforts of Older Sister and Brother to
Save Her Were Unavailing--Judge Erwin Decides That
An Inquest is Not Necessary--Body to be Buried Here.
At about 5 o'clock last evening, while the three
children of a family camping on the Dr. Evans place
east of town were bathing in Turkey creek, a little girl
seven years old got into deep water and was drowned.
The other two children--a girl aged 15 and a boy aged
9--made every possible effort to save her but were
unable to do so.
The father of the children--George Archer by
name--was fishing further down the stream in company
with a man named Lawrence Tennison and hearing the
screams of the children, hastened to the scene with all
possible speed but arrived too late to render assistance.
The body was in the water about twenty minutes when
it was recovered by Mr. Tennison. Dr. Morey was
hastily summoned and every effort made to restore life,
but without avail. Mrs. Swartz, who lives near by, also
rendered every possible assistance.
Judge A. H. Erwin was called upon to hold an
inquest, but after learning the facts in the case decided
that an inquest was unnecessary and ordered
Undertaker Gill to take charge of the body.
It is one of the saddest cases this paper has ever
had occasion to note. The home of the family was
thirty miles south of St. Louis, where the wife and
mother died about six months ago. The father started
from home in a covered wagon to take the children to
relatives in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The father and
remaining children are distracted with grief by the sad
accident which has befallen them. The family is being
looked after by the Catholic people of the city--being
members of that church--and the body was interred in
the Catholic cemetery here this afternoon. [Hayden
funeral home records indicate that her name was Lillian
Archer.]
from the Ponca City Democrat, 27 august 1908
Elsie, the 7-year-old daughter of Oscar Swanson,
died on Wednesday, August 19, at 9:30 a.m., at the
Revard home in this city, of typhoid fever. The little
girl was brought here some time ago for medical
treatment. The burial took place in Fairfax.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 August 1908
Death of Mrs. Fred Voils. -- Mrs. Fred Voils, who
formerly resided in Newkirk, died at Pawhuska Monday
evening, after an illness covering several months, due to
consumption. She had been at Roswell, New Mexico,
in a hospital for some time, up to about a month ago
when she requested to be taken to her folk in Pawhuska.
Death came while she was surrounded by her people.
Mr. and Mrs. Voils were married at Independence
seven years ago and have two children, Kathleen, six
years old, and Elsa Lynne, two years old. The children
are with their grandmother, Mrs. Margaret Voils in
Wellington. Mrs. Fred Voils maiden name was Ora
Ballieu. The funeral was held yesterday at Pawhuska.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 September 1908
R. F. Lacey died at the home of his daughter, Mrs.
Jas. Ingle, in Cross, at 6 o’clock this morning, aged 73
years. The funeral will be from the home in Cross at 2
o'clock p.m. tomorrow, burial in Ponca City cemetery.
Mr. Lacey's wife died in Atchison, Kansas, two weeks
ago, and he came home with his daughter. He was in
apparently his usual health up to the time of his death
which was sudden and unexpected.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 1 September 1908
Leman Roswell Lacy was born February 10, 1836,
and died in Cross on September 1, 1908. He enlisted as
a private in Company G. 25th Missouri Regiment and
served throughout the war. He made his home in
Atchison, Kansas, until the death of his wife on August
16, 1908, when he came here to make his home with his
daughter, Mrs. Joseph Ingles. He united with the
Methodist church years ago, and his life has been such
as to endear him to all who knew him. The funeral
services were held at the residence this morning and
were largely attended. The G. A. R. was present and
members of the order acted as pallbearers.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 September 1908
MURDER AT ARKANSAS CITY. Man Found in Box
Car may be a Kay County Farmer. -- Arkansas City,
Sept. 2 -- Last evening about 4:30 the body of an
unknown man was found in an empty box car on the
track about 100 yards east of the Missouri Pacific
depot. The body was discovered by Bruce Brubaker,
one of the depot employees. The officers were notified
and Gray and Sims drove down and examined the body.
It was conclusive that the man had been murdered, the
back of his head being crushed in as from a blow with a
cudgel or iron bar. An examination of the pockets
revealed nothing by which the man could be identified.
He had a card in his pocked reading "Please help a
crippled miner," and on this card was written, in pencil,
"John McDevitt, Denver, Colo.," but this is not believed
to be the man's name. He was lying on his back on
some hay. There was a pool of dried blood near his
head and a cane close by his side, and his hat was
beneath his shoulders. He was a man of good size,
weighing perhaps 175 pounds, and was crippled, his
right leg being shorter than the other. He was poorly
clad, his clothes being ragged. One pocket of his pants
had been turned wrong side out as though rifled
hurriedly.
The body was in very bad condition and the murder
had undoubtedly been committed several days ago.
The body was turned over to an undertaker and brought
up town. This morning the coroner came from
Winfield and impaneled a jury who viewed the body,
after which it was buried.
The coroner's jury did not take testimony but
adjourned until Monday when it is believed the officers
will have more evidence.
Later in the day and after it had been decided to
postpone the inquest, several persons were located by
the officers that had seen and talked with the stranger
on different days last week. S. S. Arnell, of the
Farmer's restaurant on south summit street, after
viewing the body stated that the man had been boarding
at his place for several days and that he last saw him on
either Friday or Saturday. He had never learned the
man's name, but he says the stranger had a roll of
money.
Others who claimed to have talked with the man
last week, one being Thomas Rowland, says that he had
told several parties that he owned a farm near
Blackwell. No clue as to his identity from any source
however has yet been found. In one of the man's
pockets was found a card bearing the name, John
McDevitt, Denver, Colo. This is thought to be only the
address of some one with whom the stranger was
acquainted. Other addresses written on cards were
found later, but they were too dim to read.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 September 1908
Mrs. Mary E. Mars died at the home of her son,
Wm. Lansing, just outside of town, early this morning,
after an illness of four weeks, aged 78 years and 2
months. The funeral will be held from the home at 2
o'clock tomorrow.
185
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 September 1908
Obituary. -- The deceased, Mrs. Mary E. Burnett
Marz was born in Tennessee, July 7, 1830; died in
Ponca City, Oklahoma, September 7, 1908, aged 78
years and two months. She united with the Baptist
church in early life and was a consistent member and
faithful worker in this church for more than sixty years.
She leaves one son, W. L. Lansing; three brothers, J. H.
Burnett, Apache, Oklahoma; S. R. Burnett, Ponca City,
Okla.; A. J. Burnett, Neal, Kan.; two sisters Sarah C.
Schwartze, of Yakima, Washington, and Martha Hays
who lives in Oregon.
The funeral services were held at the home of her
son, W. L. Lansing, at 2 o'clock yesterday afternoon,
conducted by Rev. G. D. Hensell, pastor of the
Methodist church , and interment was made in the
Ponca City cemetery.
Her husband departed this life two years and seven
months ago.
She believed in God, and also in Jesus and Jesus
came according to His promise to receive her unto
himself that where He is, she is also.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 September 1908
Funeral Notice. Funeral services for the late Dr. F. B.
Germain will be held at the home of his sister, Mrs. F.
D. Sparks on East Central avenue at 3 o'clock p.m.
tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 10, interment in Ponca City
cemetery. [Frank B. Germain, b. 1866 - d. 1908]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 September 1908
The funeral services for Dr. Frank B. Germain
were held at the home of his sister, Mrs. F. D. Sparks,
on east Central avenue at 3 o'clock this afternoon,
conducted by Rev. A. B. Vonderlippe, pastor of the
Presbyterian church. The funeral was largely attended
and the floral offerings many and beautiful. Interment
was made in the Ponca City cemetery. We hope to
have an obituary notice of Dr. Germain for publication
in a later issue of the paper.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 14 September 1908
The funeral of Mrs. Anna Hadden, wife of D. S.
Hadden, was held at the church in Cross at 2 o'clock
yesterday afternoon. The services were conducted by
Rev. Hallum and the church was crowded with friends
and neighbors who came to pay their last respected to a
noble woman. Mrs. Hadden had been a resident of
Cross for years and was honored and respected by all
who knew her, and the entire community joins the
family in mourning the loss of a loving wife and
mother. Interment was made in the I.O.O.F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 September 1908
George McClung died at his home near Uncas last
Saturday of typhoid fever. He was the youngest of the
well known McClung brothers, large land owners and
186
farmers in the Kaw country, and was well known in the
east part of the county. He was married about two
years ago and leaves a wife and child.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 September 1908
Sad Ending. The Pawhuska Capital of this week has
the following account of the death of May Belle
Revard:
On Sunday afternoon last at the home of her
mother, Mrs. Wm. Bradshaw, May Belle Revard, aged
20 years, 4 months and 16 days committed suicide by
placing a pistol against her heart and pulling the trigger.
The family was away from the home at the time and
returned later to find the dead body in front of the
mirror with pistol in hand. She had been despondent
for several weeks over the death of a friend and this is
supposed to be the cause of her rash act. The funeral
services were held at the home Tuesday afternoon, her
young lady friends acting as pallbearers. Interment
took place in the city [Pawhuska] cemetery.
Miss Revard was a sister of Mrs. Everett Fenton of
this city [Ponca City] and was well known here. The
day before the tragedy the Fentons had taken her to
Pawhuska, and were there when she died. A few days
before the young man to whom she was shortly to be
married had died and the shock seemed to have
unsettled her mind. It is one of the saddest things that
has ever occurred in this community, and the family
and friends have the sympathy of all in the sore
affliction that has befallen them.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 October 1908
Bury Their Dead Here. -- Thomas, the five-year-old
son of Charles Bryer and wife, died at Ramona,
Oklahoma, last Saturday, and the body was brought
here for burial arriving this morning. The burial will be
made from Hayden's undertaking rooms at 2 o'clock
this afternoon. These people are what are known as
"Gypsies," and travel about over the country, having no
permanent abiding place. There is a considerable tribe
or connection of them who make Ponca City a sort of
center or headquarters. They own a plot in the Ponca
City cemetery and bring their dead here for burial some
times coming long distances to do so.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 October 1908
CHIEF BIGHEART DEAD. The Noted Osage Leader
Passes Away at a Good Old Age. -- The Pawhuska
Capital of this week has the following account of the
death of a famous Indian chief:
Ex-chief Bigheart, probably the widest known Osage
of the tribe, and for many years the leading spirit in all
tribal councils, died at his home one mile southeast of
Bigheart, last Monday morning, after suffering more
than a year with paralysis. He was stricken during his
last visit to Washington, and for months anxious friends
waited here hoping against hope, it seemed, that the
Grand old chief might recover, at least sufficiently to
return to his people to die.
After many months of suffering, he recovered
sufficiently to return to his home, but has never been
able to take active part in the affairs of his people and
nation.
Probably no Indian ever enjoyed the confidence of
Secretary Hitchcock as did Chief Bigheart. He was
consulted by the Secretary on all important matters
pertaining to Indian affairs and it is said that both
Secretary Hitchcock and his wife were regular visitors
at his bedside when he lay sick in Washington. As an
instance of Secretary Hitchcock's friendship for the
chief, might be mentioned that he was the only Indian
ever granted a license to bring whiskey into the
reservation and this privilege was granted him by the
Secretary of the Interior.
Since his return home from Washington, the chief
has withdrawn from public life, and remained at his big
home ranch near the thriving little city which was
named for him. [Now named Barnsdall, Oklahoma]
Ex Chief Bigheart, though quiet and taciturn in his
nature, could and did handle an immense amount of
business affairs.
Aside from personally conducting a large ranch
and looking after several hundred head of cattle and
horses, he was a director of one of the banks of
Bartlesville, a director of the First National Bank of
Cleveland, also a stockholder in the Citizens' Trading
Company of this city.
The funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon
and laid to rest on the shady knoll of the home Chief
Bigheart loved so well.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 October 1908
HELD FOR MURDER.
Coroner's Jury Returns
Verdict and Arrest of Indian Fellow. -- At about noon
yesterday the dead body of Running Over Water, a
prominent Ponca Indian and member of the Ponca
police force, was found by a couple of boys on the bank
of the Salt Fork river, one and a half mile east of the
White Eagle depot. Notice was at once given and the
body was brought to the Hayden undertaking rooms in
this city.
This morning a coroner's jury was summoned by
A. H. Erwin, justice of the peace, and an inquest held
on the body. The jury was composed of L. C. Harsh,
Ed Regnier, J. J. Curry, Jack Shelby, D. Gillson and J.
S. Guinea.
After hearing the evidence, the jury found that in
all probability a murder had been committed, and
warrants were issued for John Bull and Sophia Bull,
who were arrested and lodged in jail to await
preliminary examination, the date of which has not
been fixed. The body will be held until after the
preliminary.
Running Over Water, the murdered man, was about
45 years of age. His wife died last July and he has three
children, two of whom are in school at Chilocco.
The evidence before the coroner's jury indicated
that the killing had occurred between nine and ten
o'clock Sunday night, and the body was found about
noon Monday. There are two bullet wounds in the
body, both in the right side, one having been inflicted
from behind and the other in front, the latter at such
close range the clothing was powder burned.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 October 1908
Durga Coville, aged 86. 6 months and 9 days, died
at the home in Ponca City on Wednesday of this week
at 2 o'clock p.m. Funeral services were held from the
Methodist church at 10 0'clock this morning, conducted
by the pastor, Rev. G. D. Hensell, and interment was
made in the Ponca City cemetery. Deceased leaves a
wife and five children -- three daughters and two sons -all grown. One daughter, Mrs. Belle Wilson, lives near
this place. [Durga Coville, b. b. 12 March 1822 - d. 21
October 1908.]
from the Ponca City Democrat (Bliss Breeze), 29
October 1908
Mr. Charley Toll received a telegram Sunday
stating that his father was dead. Mr. Toll left for
Illinois Sunday evening, and on his arrival there found
that it was Mrs. Toll's father. He died very suddenly
with a paralytic stroke. If the mistake had not happened
Mrs. Toll would have attended the funeral, and all of
the children would have been present.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 October 1908
Dr. Dudley Dead. -- Arthur Dudley received a
telephone message from Arkansas City at 9:30 o'clock
last night that his father, Dr. J. D. F. Dudley, was dead.
The Doctor, who was a prominent Mason, was
attending a lodge meeting, being secretary of the lodge,
and dropped dead in his seat at his desk. He was
apparently in his usual health up to the moment he died,
the cause of death being heart disease.
Dr. Dudley was one of the oldest best known and
most highly esteemed citizens of Arkansas City and
was well known in Ponca City, being the father of our
popular young druggist, Arthur Dudley.
The funeral of Dr. Dudley, who died at Arkansas
City last night, will be held Monday afternoon at 2
o'clock, the services being in charge of the Masonic
order, of which deceased was an old and honored
member. It is expected that a number of the members
of the order from this city will attend.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 31 October 1908
G. M. Dick, one of Washunga's leading merchants,
died very suddenly Tuesday evening at that place. He
had been out in the country on business, and returned to
187
town in the evening with Steve Papan. He was found
dead in the street, just a few doors from his home,
where it is presumed he had fallen. Dr. Compton and
Barker were called when the body was found, but all
life had left it. Judge Pattison was notified of his
sudden death, but no inquest was held as the doctors
pronounced death from heart trouble, and there was no
evidence of any kind of violence. Mr. Dick has been a
resident of this county for several years, and his sudden
demise was a great shock to the community -- Kaw City
Star, 30th.
further trouble is expected. Fraley and Parker were old
enemies. It had been a question for some days as to
who would die, should they meet. Fraley was shot in
the breast and Parker in the side, arm and leg.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 3 November 1908
KILLING AT FORAKER. A Quarrel Over Politics
Results in Death of One of the disputants. -- Foraker,
Okla., Nov. 2 -- In a political quarrel here yesterday
Frank S. Seward, a prominent hardware merchant and
local Democratic committeeman, shot and killed John
H. Milam, a prominent stockman and farmer of
Pawhuska, Okla.
At the time of the shooting Milam, Seward and
Isaac Gastenau, Democratic members of the election
board were in Seward's store on Broadway. Words
were passed and the shots were fired by Seward. An
automatic was used and four or five shots fired, all
taking effect to Milan’s head and body.
After being shot Milam staggered out to the
sidewalk and died in a few minutes. The coroner came
up from Pawhuska, the county seat, and held an
Inquest. There verdict of which was: "We find the
deceased John Milam, came to his death from gun shots
which we believe to have been by E. S. Seward."
All parties were drinking and Gastenau was the
only eye witness to the killing and he seems to have
been too drunk to remember just what happened.
Seward is under arrest and will be given a hearing
tomorrow. Both men are prominent in business and
politics, Seward being a Democrat and Milam a
Republican.
Seward has an excellent wife and
daughter. Milam is an intermarried citizen and has
been prominent in Osage affairs for years. He leaves a
wife and several children.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 November 1908
A. W. Moss is here from Warrior, Alabama, where
he is working, to attend the funeral of his son, Cecil
Moss, who died in Tulsa Wednesday night and was
buried here today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 November 1908
Cecil Moss, brother-in-law of Jas. Gravette of this
city, died suddenly at Tulsa last night. The body will
probably be brought here for burial.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 November 1908
FATAL PISTOL DUEL.
Old Feud Results in
Shooting--More Trouble is Expected. Hominy, Okla.,
Nov 5 -- M. C. Fraley, one of the most prominent
business men of this section of the state, is dying and
Dan Parker, a fellow duelist, is mortally wounded, as a
result of a pistol duel that took place between the two
men in front of the First National bank yesterday
evening. Fraley has four brothers and Parker three, and
188
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 6 November 1908
The body of Cecil Moss, who died in Tulsa on
Wednesday of this week, will arrive here tonight and
funeral services will be held at the home of his mother
in the Wylde addition at 10:30 a.m. tomorrow. [Cecil
Moss, b. 14 May 1879 - d. 4 Nov. 1908]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 November 1908
Michael Mahoney died Tuesday, Nov. 3, 1908, at
about the age of 80. He was born in Cork, Ireland, and
came to America at the age of 22. He settled in New
Hampshire for a time and then moved to Illinois, where
he lived for about twenty years. Joining the rush for
gold in the 60's he went west and shortly after settled in
Iowa, where he lived for a number of years. In 1902 he
moved to Oklahoma, which has since been his home.
The funeral was held at 10 o'clock Thursday, at the
Catholic church, by Father Sevens of Ponca City. The
body will be taken to Corning, Iowa, for burial by the
side of his wife and several children. -- Tonkawa News.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 November 1908
EDWARD K. COBB DEAD. Father of L. G. and W.
R. Cobb of This City.
The following account of the recent death of the
father of our well known townsmen, L. G. and W. R.
Cobb, is taken from the Nebraska Signal, published at
Geneva, Neb., and dated October 30:
COBB -- At his home in Geneva, at 8:10 p.m.,
Thursday, October 22, 1908, Edward Kellogg Cobb,
aged 65 years and 10 days.
Edward Kellogg Cobb was born in Sutton, Mass.,
October 12, 1843. Ten years later he removed with his
father, mother, brother and sister to Bureau county, Ill.,
and lived there on a farm until the outbreak of the civil
war. He enlisted September 21 1861, in Company B,
Fifty-Seventh Illinois infantry serving through the war
and was discharged July 7, 1865, with the rank of
sergeant major.
After the war he returned to his home in Bureau
county and on September 29, 1869, was married to
Lucy Yearshaw at Wyanet. With his father-in-law he
was engaged in the grocery business at Wyanet until
1873, when he removed to Nebraska and took up a
homestead in Hamilton township this county, and there
lived until his election as county clerk in 1883. He was
re-elected in 1885, and at the expiration of his second
term went to Denver, where for six months he was
engaged in the real estate business. In August, 1888, he
returned to Geneva and became officially connected
with the Citizens bank serving continuously most of the
time as cashier, to within a short time prior to his death.
Mr. Cobb leaves surviving him his wife, and five
children: Herbert E. of Minneapolis, Lewis G. and W.
Roy, both of Ponca, Okla., Edna E. and Fred H. of
Geneva. Also a brother, Francis E. of Riverside, Cal.,
All of these were present at the funeral.
The funeral took place from the Congregational
church in Geneva and was conducted by Rev. Thos.
Griffiths. The Masonic order, with which Mr. Cobb
had been identified for many years had charge of the
funeral arrangements and the services at the grave.
There were many beautiful floral tokens from personal
friends, business associates and organizations with
which the deceased had been connected. The interment
was in the Geneva cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 November 1908
Obituary. -- This village has suffered a loss in the death
of Mr. Thomas Feagins, who passed away Saturday at
3 a. m., after much suffering endured in the last two
years. He was 47 years and 11 months old. Last winter
during the services in the Methodist church here he
sought the Savior, joined the church on probation and
set up the family altar in his home. During the last few
weeks of his life, when he felt sure he was soon to go,
he often spoke of his dying. Friday evening about 5
o'clock his last words to his wife were, "It's all right,
Ella."
The funeral services were held at the Methodist
church at 9 o'clock Sunday morning. The church was
tastefully decorated under charge of the Rebekah lodge
and many and beautiful were the floral tributes of love
and esteem. The music spoken of as the sweetest ever
heard at a funeral service, consisted of a quartet under
the direction of Prof. Fowler of Arkansas city. Rev. H.
W. Lewis preached from Psalms 30:5 "Weeping may
endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."
The lodges of which Mr. Feagins was a member
attended in a body. The Woodman lodge assisted in
arrangements at the church and the I.O.O.F. had charge
of the services at the grave. Interment was made in
Mercy cemetery, Kansas.
Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved wife and
children, to whom he was a devoted husband and father
and friend. The relatives from a distance were Mr. and
Mrs. Bannester of Chandler, Okla., Mr. and Mrs. C. M.
Crocker of Crescent City, Okla. and Mr. and Mrs. M. L.
Crocker and daughter, May of Winfield, Kansas. A
friend, Kildare, Okla., Nov 9, 1908.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 13 November 1908
The eight-year-old child of Mr. and Mrs. Lorimer
(sic) of Bliss died in the hospital in Wichita this
morning and the body will be brought here for burial.
The child had been taken to the hospital for a surgical
operation. [Rozella Larimer, b. 1901 - d. 1908.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 19 November 1908
Leonard, the 18-months-old son of George Field
and wife, died at the family home one-half mile north
of the Twin Bridges this morning of membranous
croup. Funeral services were held at the home at 2
o'clock this afternoon and interment made in the
I.O.O.F. cemetery. The family has the sympathy of the
community in the sorrow that has darkened the home.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 20 November 1908
Man Killed at Uncas. -- An unknown man was killed
at Uncas on Tuesday night of this week, supposed to
have been run over by a freight train. He was
apparently about 25 years old, weight 160 pounds and
of fair complexion. In his pockets was found $1.05 in
money, a husking peg and a letter postmarked at Kansas
City. The body was taken to Newkirk, where a
coroner's inquest was held.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 23 November 1908
The fear has been expressed that the young man
who was killed by a Santa Fe train near Uncas last
week was Howard Benjamin Gilbert, whose parents
reside in this city. It seems that young Gilbert had
written his folks here that he would be home at about
that time coming by way of Uncas, but for some reason
no trace of his has been found. Since learning of the
body of a young man being found near the track at
Uncas, his folks here have been considerably worried.
They say the description tallies almost exactly with that
of Gilbert. The opinion however is that it could not
have been the Ponca City boy. A report has it that this
body was identified by the mother who lives in Kansas
City. A brother at Fairfax is said to have taken charge
of the remains. [Howard B. Gilbert died in 1943]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 November 1908
A. F. Fair (sic), father of Mrs. Geo. H. Brett, died
at his home in Maple Hill, Kansas, last night. Mrs.
Brett had been with him for several days. Mr. Brett is
in New Mexico and could not be reached by telegraph
today. Mr. Fair was quite well known here, having
been a frequent visitor at the home of his daughter.
[The 24 November 1904 edition of the Ponca City
Democrat identifies Mrs. Brett's father as A. G.
Thayer, not Fair.]
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 November 1908
FIGHT AT WASHUNGA. In Which Roy Grantham is
Stabbed to Death. -- The Kaw City Star of November
27 contains the following account of a fatal fight at
Washunga: Last Friday night after the crowd attending
the dance and box supper had dispersed, an altercation
189
took place between Leonard Cassity and Roy
Grantham which ended in Grantham being stabbed
four or five times in the back with a knife.
The young men were clinched and standing face to
face when Cassity drew his knife, reached behind
Grantham in some manner and cut him in five different
places before they could be separated. This fight seems
to have been the climax of some other trouble.
Dr. Baker and Irvin were called to attend the
injured man, but little or nothing could be done.
Cassity was arrested Saturday morning by Officer
Clark and taken to the county seat, where he will be
held pending the fate of Grantham.
It is understood that Cassity will plead self defense,
but at this writing the stories of the fight are so varied
that we are unable to ascertain with any degree of
certainty who was the aggressor.
Cassity was arraigned before Judge Duvall at
Newkirk Tuesday and pled not guilty to the charges
preferred against him. His bond was fixed at $2,000
which he gave. A hearing in the case is set for Dec. 21
Grantham died at 10:20 a.m. today.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 28 November 1908
John M. Shehi, an old and respected citizen of this
city, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Geo. Diehl,
at six o'clock this morning, aged 79 years. Funeral
services were held at the home at 3 p.m. today, and the
body will be shipped to the old home at Mammouth
(sic), Illinois, for burial. Deceased was father of Mrs.
George Diehl, Mrs. Ben Lehman and Roy Shehi, all of
this city.
from the Ponca City Democrat, 3 December 1908
Death of J. H. Shehi. -- Died--Saturday, November 28,
1908, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. G. W. Deihl, on
south Second street at the age of 79 years, J. M. Shehi.
The cause of death was old age and Bright's
Disease. Short funeral services were held at the house
Saturday afternoon, conducted by Dr. Walter Schenck,
whom the deceased had requested should hold the
services. The remains were taken to Monmouth,
Illinois, the boyhood home of Mr. Shehi, and laid
beside the grave of his wife in the old home cemetery.
They were accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Ben Lehman.
Mr. Shehi had been a resident of Ponca City for the
past six years and during that time had made many
warm personal friends in the city, and was respected by
all as one of the city's best citizens. He leaves three
children, Mrs. Geo. W. Deihl, Mrs. Ben Lehman and
Roy Shehi, together with several grandchildren, who
mourn his death.
We extend to them in behalf of the people of Ponca
City, our sincere sympathy in their hour of grief.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 4 December 1908
Tragedy Near Braman. -- On Wednesday, December 2,
1bout 2 p.m. Wm. Noble, aged about 45 shot his
brother, S. B. Noble, who is about five years older.
190
Two of the bullets struck the victim in the arm and one
in the shoulder, but it is said none of the wounds are
serious. The men live on adjoining farms about two
miles northeast of Braman and both are apparently
prosperous. The one who did the shooting went to
Braman and surrendered to Jas. Ferguson, a butcher,
who was deputized to bring the prisoner to Blackwell,
where Deputy Sheriff Clarence Gross of Newkirk took
charge of him and took him to the county seat. The
cause leading to the shooting appears to have been the
wife of Wm. Noble, with whom he has had trouble on
various occasions, their disagreement at one time
having gone so far as the beginning of divorce
proceedings, but which were stopped and the couple
were again living together. It is reported that Wm.
Noble blames his brother for much of the trouble and
suspected him of being unlawfully intimate with the
woman. It is said that on the day of the shooting he lay
in hiding in a field and saw his brother enter the house.
He immediately followed and entered and began
shooting with the results above noted. The sympathy of
the neighbors is said to be with Wm. Noble, the general
impression being that he has been deeply wronged and
had good reason for attempting to take the "unwritten
law" into his own hands. -- Blackwell News.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 5 December 1908
Died in Wichita. -- S. B. Noble, who was shot by his
brother, Wm. Noble, in Braman, on Wednesday of this
week, died in the Wichita hospital his morning as the
result of the shooting. The brother who did the
shooting has been arrested and will doubtless be held
for murder.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 7 December 1908
James McConnell Dead. -- James McConnell died at
the family home adjoining the town of Cross at 10
o'clock last night, after a severe illness, aged 53 years.
He had been critically ill for some days and his death
was not unexpected. Funeral services will be held in
the Christian church in this city at 2 o'clock next
Wednesday afternoon, and interment will be made in
the I.O.O.F. cemetery.
Mr. McConnel was among the first settlers here,
having settled on the school section adjoining Cross at
the opening and was highly respected in the
community. He leaves a wife and one child, a little
daughter.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 9 December 1908
Funeral of James McConnell. -- The funeral services
for James McConnell, who died at his home near Cross
last, Sunday night, were held in the Christian church in
this city at 2 o'clock this afternoon being conducted by
the pastor of the church.
The funeral was one of the largest held in the city,
and was attended by the neighbors of the family for
miles around and also by the Woodmen and Royal
Neighbor lodges of this city in a body, Interment was
made in the I.O.O.F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 10 December 1908
Obituary. -- After months of struggle against a fatal
illness, Miss Mable F. Atkins, only sister of Mrs.
Hugh M. Noble of the Ponca Agency, passed away
Tuesday morning, death ending her suffering
[microfilm damaged and unreadable] peacefully with
all members of the family at her bedside.
Mabel Florence Atkins was born December 31,
1870, at Grant Michigan, being the daughter of Daniel
and Elizabeth Atkins, her father dying when she was
but seven years old. At the age of sixteen years her
mother died, and the two daughters Mabel and Effie
May, now Mrs. Noble, were orphaned. They remained
together during their girlhood and after Mrs. Noble's
marriage, the sister continued making her home with
her.
Affiliating in early childhood with church life, the
consistent Christian training fitted Miss Atkins for the
wonderful work and opportunity she found for doing
good when she became a resident of the Ponca
reservation five years ago. From her advent here from
her Michigan home in Port Huron, she unselfishly
dedicated her life to the Indian cause. It mattered not
the welcome or unwelcome attitude of the Indians
whom she found living in filth and often in squalor, she
ministered both in material and spiritual things until she
was known and loved and revered by all Poncas who
called her "God's Woman."
During her long illness her greatest desire for a
restoration to health lay in continuing her Master's work
and the shelves in her room were fitted with Bibles she
had purchased for the educated Indians whom she
sought to save.
Brief funeral services were held at the residence of
supt. and Mrs. Noble, Tuesday evening, the hymn
"Asleep in Jesus," being sung. The Revs. Arthur W.
Simms, pastor of the Ponca Mission church, of which
she was a member, and Joseph H. McIntyre, pastor of
the Holiness church, Ponca City, spoke of the beauty of
character of the deceased, and of the influence that such
a life must create and surely will continue to bear
results.
Mr. and Mrs. Noble accompanied the remains to
Port Huron, Michigan, where funeral services will take
place tomorrow afternoon, the burial being at Kenney
cemetery, Clyde, in the family lot beside the parents of
the deceased.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 December 1908
Death of M. A. Feathers. -- Marcus A. Feathers died
at the home in this city at one o'clock yesterday
afternoon, after a long illness. He was formerly
government farmer at the White Eagle Agency and is
well and favorable known in the community. He was
about 50 years of age and leaves a wife and young
daughter. The funeral was held at the home this
afternoon at 2 o'clock being in charge of the Masonic
lodge of which he was a member, and interment was
made in the I.O.O.F. cemetery.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 24 December 1908
Another Veteran Gone. -- Charles E. Hill an old
soldier and highly esteemed citizen, died at the family
home five miles northeast of town, early this morning
of cancer from which he had suffered intensely for
many months. The funeral services will be held at the
Methodist church in this city at 11 o'clock a.m. next
Saturday, and burial will be made in the Ponca City
cemetery. All old soldiers and comrades of the G. A.
R. are requested to attend the services.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 26 December 1908
Funeral of Comrade Hill. Funeral services for Chas. E.
Hill, who died at the home five miles northeast of town
last Thursday morning were held in the Methodist
church in this city at 11 o'clock a.m. today, being
conducted by Rev. G. D. Hensell, pastor of the church.
There was a large attendance of neighbors from the
country and friends in town. Mr. Hensell delivered an
eloquent and forceful sermon, especially referring to the
old soldiers present at the funeral of their comrade.
About 25 old soldiers were present, six of whom acted
as pallbearers. The singing was fine, particularly a solo
by a young lady whose name we failed to learn.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 29 December 1908
Obituary -- Charles E. Hill was born in Clark county,
Ohio, April 15, 1832, and died at his home six miles
east of Ponca City, on December 24, 1908. The
deceased was a veteran of the Civil war, having served
as a member of Company 47, 2nd Colorado infantry. In
1877 he was united in marriage to Mrs. Malinda J.
Teague and to them were born three children, one son
and two daughters, of whom the son John L. Hill, and
one daughter, Mrs. Sherman Hurst, survive him.
Interment was made in the I.O.O.F. cemetery on
December 26, 1908.
from the Ponca City Daily Courier, 22 December 1908
The infant child of Ed Huff and wife died at the
home on south second street last night and was buried
at 2 o'clock this afternoon. The Huffs are new comers
to the city.
191
Index
"Cocaine" Annie, 54
Acton, T. W., 161
Adams, F. P., 91
Alderman, Louzetta Viola, 150
Alec, John, 69
Alexander, Levi, 148
Alexander, Mrs. Levi, 148
Allen, Manda Gertrude, 61
Allen, Mrs. Eliza, 14
Allen, Ruth, 80
Anderson, George, 25
Anderson, young man, 101
Andres, Anson, 155
Andrew, Anson, 155
Archer, George, 184
Archer, girl seven years old, 184
Asbell, Harry, 165
Atcheson, Jim, 93
Atkins, Mabel Florence, 191
Atkins, Mable F., 191
Atkinson, Jim, 113
Auchmoody, Wright Holmes, 111, 112
Austin, Etta, 35
Austin, Sarah, 173
Austin, William, 35
Bacher, E. E. (father of), 174
Bacher, John, 174
Bacon, Wm. J., 150
Baker, Al, 50
Baker, Francis Earl, 58
Baker, Fred, 23
Baker, Ike. See also, Barker, Isaac W.
Baker, W. A., 58
Baker, W. H., 23
Barber, Mrs. M. L., 9
Barger, child, 84
Barger, Lee, 84
Baringer, Richard, 100
Barnes, B. S., 153, 154
Barnes, Burton S., 153
Barnes, John H., 156
Barnett, Charles V., 28
Barnett, Col. Wm., 66
Barnett, Mrs. J. B., 16
Barnum, daughter, 42
Barnum, Ed, 53
Barnum, W. L., 42, 53
Barrett, Elizabeth A., 9
Barrett, J. N., 9
Basset, Mrs., 143
Bassett, Adelia D., 144
Bassett, Henry, 144
Bassler, Mrs. Thos., 110
Bassler, Thomas, 110, 169, 170
Baughman, Ida May, 113
Baughman, infant son, 145
Baughman, Jacob, 113
192
Baughman, R. P., 145
Bayless, Dan E., 128
Bayless, Maud L., 128
Beach, Charles, 136
Beach, Charles E. and Alice J., 136
Beach, Lloyd, 136, 137
Beach, Lloyd Kelso, 136
Beard, W. H., 82
Bear's Ear, Leon, 64
Beaver, Sim (Brother of), 82
Beekman, Judge J. V., 11
Belford, Anna, 8
Bell, Elizabeth Jane, 22
Bell, John, 11
Bell, Thomas, 111
Belveal, Mrs. N., 13
Belveal, Peter S., 60
Bennett, G. L., 63
Bennett, infant twins, 63
Berry, Pete, 66
Bertha Levitt. See
Bicksler, Frank, 100
Bigheart, Chief, 186
Bishop, Fred P., 91, 93
Bishop, J. A., 50, 51
Black Buffalo Bull, Alva, 80
Black, A. C., 147
Black, Elizabeth, 168
Blackwell, Colonel A. J., 82
Blanchard, Lydia, 160
Blockson, 39
Boice, Nathan, 160
Boles, Joseph, 127
Boles, Josephus, 127
Bolt, Ella Wikoff, 155
Bolt, Jesse W., 155
Bontwell, Chas. F., 3
Boone, A. C., 13
Boone, Tony, 92
Booth, Gene, 178, 179
Botkin, O. D., 48
Boucher, Jessie M.. See Jessie M. Lockwood
Bouten, Mrs. Henry E., 35
Bouten. Mrs. H. E., 35
Bower, Mrs. Fred, 182
Boyce, Artemus and Lucinda (McCloud), 161
Boyce, Emma, 18
Boyce, Josie, 18
Boyce, Nathan, 161
Boyd, H., 113
Boyd, Harrison, 112
Boyes, Charlotte, 125
Bradshaw, Mrs. Wm., 186
Bragg, D. L., 159
Bragg, L. E., 159
Bragg, one-year-old baby, 159
Brannon, infant child, 110
Bresher, Cora, 73
Bressie, child, 72
Bressie, infant son, 155
Bressie, M. F., 19
Bressie, Milton Frazier, 19
Bressie, R. M., 19, 155
Bressie, Rovie Bird, 141
Brett, Major James E., 94
Brewer, Benjamin, 182
Bridal, Horton, 57
Bridal, Robert, 57
Bride, Bertha, 182, 183
Bride, C. A., 182
Bride, Charles, 183
Briley, Mrs. W. M., 132
Brinegar, Asa L., 101
Broadball, E., 130
Brodball, H. C. R., 130
Brooks, Chas., 40
Brown, A. P., 148
Brown, Arine, 126
Brown, C. D., 143
Brown, C. W., 100
Brown, Elsa Elizabeth, 161
Brown, Henry, 161
Brown, Sam R., 143
Brown, Will, 99
Brown, Wm., 126
Bryan, infant child, 77
Bryan, W. J., 77
Bryant, 61
Bryer, Charles, 186
Bryer, Marzella, 177
Bryer, Thomas, 186
Budd, J. G., 106
Budd, Maggie, 106
Buffalo Track, 58
Bull, John, 106
Burell, child, 72
Burnett, Bob, 103
Burns, Leo, 148
Burns, T. H., 148
Burriss, Mrs. S. P., 25
Burton, G. W., 42
Butler, Miranda O., 46
Cales, Clara Evilyne, 53
Cales, Henry T., 53
Calhoon, C. S., 124
Calloway, J. E., 165
Calloway, Sarah, 43
Campbell, Edward, 65
Campbell., Mrs. M. J., 65
Cannon, Alma McPherson, 57
Cannon, Mr., 14
Canter, Abner. See Kinter, Abner
Carral, Lida. See Lida Corral
Carrell, Claude, 97
Carrico, Susie I., 165
Carter, Mrs., 15
Carver, W. S., 17
Cassidy, 18-year-old son, 138
Cassidy, Finis, 139, 140
Cassidy, T. W., 138
Cassidy, Tabitha, 139
Cassity, Leonard, 190
Cavanaugh, Chas., 96, 97
Chadwell, daughter, 49
Chadwell, Geo. W., 84
Chadwell, George, 2
Chadwell, Mart, 49
Chamberlain, Nora Fearnow, 130
Chamberlain, Wm., 130
Chamberlin, Cecil Richard, 40
Chamberlin,, William, 40
Chandler, John E. and Willie, 9
Chapman, Major J. F., 84
Cheney, Lucy, 108, 109
Chitwood, W. R., 174
Choteau, Lulu. See Mrs. Levi Alexander
Clancy, Wm., 99
Clapp, James H., 90, 91
Clemmer, Ida, 44
Clemmer, Jacob, 44
Clymer, S. C., 182
Clymer, Simon C., 182
Cobb, Edward Kellogg, 188
Cobb, L. G, 188
Cobb, W. R., 188
Cochran, Bessie Guyer, 21
Cochran, Ora, 22
Cochran, Robert, 21
Cole, John H., 133
Coleman, Pet, 8
Coleman, Will, 8
Collins, George, 116
Colvin, C. J. and Margaret, 58
Colvin, Ethel Marie, 58
Combs, Felix G., 15
Conley, Minnie, 37
Connelly, C. W., 115
Conner, Sarah, 84
Constant, Arizona, 56
Constant, E. M., 180
Constant, H. H., 56
Constant, Vera, 180
Cook, Chas. A., 21
Coombs, Felix G., 15
Cooper, Otto, 137
Cornell, Chas. Edgar, 172
Cornell, W. H., 115
Cornell,, Ed., 172
Corral, Claude C. See Claude Carral
Corral, Lida, 94
Corral, R. E.. See also Carral
Corral, Reuben. See Correl, Reuben
Correll, Reuben. See Corral, Reuben
193
Corzine, Frank, 11
Corzine, Maud M., 11
Cottingham, Joseph, 12
Cottingham, Joseph Lauren, 12
Countryman, Samuel S., 47
Coville, Durga, 187
Cowan, D. J., 8
Cox, Mildred, 94
Coy, Bell, 176
Crabtree, Harry, 59
Cragin, little son, 165
Creed, Charles C., 183
Creed, Mollie, 183
Crislwell, Ten-Year-Old Son, 103
Criswell, Bert, 103
Criswell, Charlie, 103
Crocker, Frank E., 26
Crocker, Mrs. Frank E., 26
Crolly, John, 59
Crook, James, 75
Crook, Mrs. James, 83
Crook, Raymond, 75
Cross, John, 136
Cullen, Henry, 21
Cullen, Roy, 21
Cunning, D. W., 9
Cunning, Jay, 9
Cunningham, Eleanor, 27
Cunningham, J. B. and Elanor, 160
Cunningham, James, 27
Cunningham, James F., 160
Cunningham, James Ferre, 160
Cunningham, Tom, 36
Cunnings, C. E., 145
Curtis, Anna, 33
Curtis, C. W., 44
Curtis, Capt. Jack, 20
Curtis, John, 33
Curtis, Mrs. Ida Clemmer, 44
Cutting family,. See C. E. Cunning
Cutting, C. E., 145
Cutting, child, 145
Dale, Eli, 7
Dale, J. B., 110, 111
Dale, Mrs. Eli, 7
Dale, Mrs. Ivy Myrtle, 7
Daley, Frances Perces, 35
Daley, Michael, 35
Daley, Mr. and Mrs. M., 60
Daley, Regene, 60
Davis, Amanda, 156
Davis, C. L., 18
Davis, Chas., 82
Davis, James, 172
Davis, Martha Lovell, 171
Davis., Edith (mother of), 105
Davisson, J. J., 9
Dawson, Emily Frances, 114
194
Day, Capt. Chas., 163
Day, Charlie, 163
Day, Franklin M., 71
Day, Mrs. Charles, 132
Dean, Clarence, 38
Dean, Ellen, 164
Dean, Robert. See Ellen Dean
Dean, Roy, 38
Dean, T. J., 38
Dean, two children, 38
Dehl, Mrs. Geo.. See J. H. Shehl
Dell, Mrs. Catron Wood, 100
DeMar, Glenn, 168
DeMar, N., 168
Denoya, Herbert, 83
DeNoya, Mrs. Josephine, 112
DeNoya, Mrs. Louis, 110
DeRoberts, Charles, 134
DeRoberts, Humphrey, 10
Devenney, infant child, 93
Devenney, R. E., 93
Dewey, M. P., 111
Dewey, three-weeks-old daughter, 111
Dick, G. M., 187
Dick, W. N., 118, 129
Dida, 84
Diehl, Geo. W., 171
Diehl, Mrs. Geo., 190
Dimond, fourteen year-old son, 100
Dixon, Clara, 16
Dodd, Mary, 74
Don, (dog of newspaper editor), 43
Donahoe, Ester, 177, 178
Donahoe, Frank, 44
Donahoe, Joseph, 63
Donahoe, Mother, 178
Donahoe, Mrs. Ester, 177
Donahoe, Timothy, 28, 30, 177
Donnell, Clarissa, 14
Doty, Mrs. W. F., 43
Doughty, Rev. E. N., 179
Douglass, baby, 101
Douglass, infant child, 102
Douglass, J. A., 101, 102
Downey, Henry, 93
Downey, Henry E., 93
Drake, J. B. and J. L. (mother of), 163
Drake, Grandma, 162
Dudley, Dr. J. D. F., 187
Duer, Joseph and Mary, 60
Dull, Mrs. Jessie, 78
Duncan, child, 71
Duncan, Foreman, 71
Duncan,, Amanda E., 182
Dunham, Mrs. Lee, 85
Dunham, Orah Wyoming, 135
Dunham,, Mrs. F., 38
Dunlap, (son-in-law of White Eagle), 43
Dunlap, Phillip, 18
Dunlap, Sarah A., 42
Dunlop, Flora B. Christian, 125
Dunlop, Robert, 125
Dunn, Allan M., 24
Durvin, Dempsy, 65
Duvell, Rose, 145
Dwyer, J. H., 49
Eads, E. E., 1
Easterday, child, 35
Easterday, J. B., 35
Easterly, infant, 70
Edwards, Mable May, 36
Edwards, William, 56
Egbert, Florence Mildred, 63
Egbert, John, 63
Eisiminger, Dora. See Mrs. E. R. Green
Eisiminger, T. J., 148
Ella Williams. See Mrs. C. D, Harper
Elliott, Dr., 149, 150
Elliott, Dr. C. G., 150
Elliott, Frank R., 178
Elliott, Stephen, 86
Elliott, Steve, 84
Ellison, Frank, 150
Ellison, nine-year-old daughter, 150
Ellison, Sadie, 150
Elmore, Rush, 39
Ennis, Henry, 45
Ennis, Joe, 45
Erwin, Winfield Scott, 132
Evans, Dr. Elias, 103
Evans, Mrs., 102
Evans,, Dr. Elias, 102
Evens, Margaret Petri, 103
Eyestone, Isaac, 87
Fagan, Martha, 58
Fair, A. F.. See A. F. Thayer
Fallin, Thomas, 146
Farmer, Mary A., 100
Farrell, Chris, 72
Farris, Newt, 84
Farrow, Margaret M., 17
Feagins, Thomas, 189
Fearnow, Alfretta Snow, 38
Fearnow, Devinie, 48
Fearnow, Eveline Lorain, 47
Fearnow, Grover, 58
Fearnow, J. R., 22, 113, 114
Fearnow, John Richard, 114
Fearnow, Mrs. Emily, 138
Fearnow, Troy, 138
Feather, Mrs. Annie L., 13
Feathers, Marcus A., 191
Femis, Jack, 7, 8
Ferguson, John, 59
Field, George, 189
Field, Leonard, 189
Finiff, M. D., 126
Finiff, twin children, 126
Fish, Mr., 127
Fleming, Kittie B., 126
Flitch, Sylvester, 53
Florer, Col. John N., 157
Florer, Harriett A., 48
Florer, John, 94
Florer, John A., 48
Flynn, J. M., 56
Flynn, Mat, 56
Foltz, C. R., 179
Foltz, S. H., 178, 179
Ford, Syl G., 176
Forsythe, John B., 59
Foster, C. T., 72
Foster, Harry, 62
Foster, twin babes, 72
Foster, W. W., 62
Fouts, Lynn P., 72
Fouts, Salem, 72
Foutz, Ernest, 44, 81
Foutz, F. D., 76
Foutz, Mattie, 81
Foutz, Mrs. F. D., 84
Foutz,, Mrs. F. D., 64
Fox, B. M., 8
Fraley, M. C., 188
Frazier, Chas., 82
French, Charles, 135
Frey, Fred, 182
Fronkier, David, 175
Fronkier, Louise, 58
Frye, Leta, 94
Fuller, Chas., 39
Fuller, Nina, 39
Gardner, Ella, 168
Garrett, Rebecca, 104
Garris, J. S., 37
Garvis, J. S., 37
Gay, Mary, 19
Gelvin, A. L., 104
Gelvin, Ella M., 104
Gelvin, Mrs. A. L., 108, 166
Geo. W. Miller, 78
George (only name given), 37
George, Mrs. J. B., 57
Germain, Dr. F. B., 186
Germain, Dr. Frank B., 186
Germain, Dr. Geo. H., 134
Germain, Dr. George H., 134
Getts, Harry, 60
Gibson, John, 156
Gilbert, Howard Benjamin, 189
Gilbert, Louise, 153
Gill, John A., 146
Gill, M. G. (father), 146
Gillam, C. L., 17
195
Gillam, Reva, 17
Gillen, J. G., 51
Gilmore, R. B., 37, 38
Gingerich, William, 172
Gingrich, infant child, 80
Gingrich, Orbery, 80
Girard, J. P., 47
Girard, John P., 46
Girard, Lee, 46
Gist, John H., 141
Glaser, F. S., 147
Glaser, infant child, 147
Glaser, Vincent, 147
Glayson, James, 145
Golden, Elizabeth, 64
Graham, G. W., 163
Graham, George W., 162
Graham, Wesley, 69
Grantham, Roy, 189
Graves, Lewis, 4
Gravett, E. B., 61
Gravette, Elliott B., 61
Gravette, J. N., 154
Gravette, James N., 152
Gravette, James Nelson, 154
Green, Austin, 30
Green, E. R., 148
Green, Joe, 160
Green, Mrs. E. R., 148
Greenwood, Mrs. Thomas, 15
Greenwood, Thos., 78
Greer, C. L., 174
Greer, infant daughter, 39
Greer, Len, 174, 175
Griswold, Onan F., 81
Grove, Clara, 7
Guinea, J. S., 148
Guinn, Ben L., 25
Guinn, father, 25
Guinn, Robert L., 25
Gunn, Jane, 23, 24
Gunn, William, 24
Gunn, Wm. M., 23
Haas, John, 99
Hachtel, George, 174
Hackley, Adolphus, 21
Hadden, Anna, 186
Hadduck, Ada L., 183
Hadley, C. H., 36
Hadley, Ignolia P., 110
Hadley, infant daughter, 36
Hagaman, Alice, 52
Hain, C. F. (mother of), 155
Hain, Dorothy, 155
Haivilin. See Mrs. Hain
Hall, Duane, 163
Hall, W. M., 46
Hall, William G, 46
196
Halschneider, Wm. J., 98
Hamilton, Laura and Bernard, 39
Hamilton, Miss. Jessie, 39
Hampton, Nancy Katherine, 79
Haney, Wm., 136
Haning, E. W., 38
Hardman, Nannie, 84
Harfes, Frederick, 21
Harfes, Ira Viola, 21
Harness, Louvella A., 172
Harness, Lulu, 171
Harp, daughter, 88
Harp, E. W., 88
Harp, Henry, 92
Harper, Alice G., 22
Harper, C. D., 146
Harper, Joe, 81
Harper, Mrs. C. D., 145
Harper, Rev. E. C., 138
Harpster, Al, 110, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124
Harrel, James, 77, 78
Harrison, Mr., 68
Hart, Dorena, 59
Hart, Mrs. W. S., 59
Hartman, G. J., 4
Hartman, Joe, 4
Hatfield, John W., 114
Hatfield,, John W., 113
Hathaway, F. M., 182
Hatten, Al (sister of). See
Hawkins, A. L., 128
Hawkins, A. L. (father of), 127
Hawkins, A. T., 128
Hawkins, B. H., 41
Hawkins, Sarah, 41
Hawley, Joseph W., 1
Hazen, S. A., 78
Headley, Henry (his sisterm Miriam), 164
Headley, L. C., 164
Headley, W. E., 180
Healey, Mrs. C., 129
Heinze, Isabel, 158
Helton, infant child, 72
Helton, Sarah, 61
Helton, son, 61
Henry Pappan, 18
Hermain, Dr. Geo. H., 134
Herod, daughter, 43
Herod. W. E., 43
Herriott, George F., 54
Hiatt, L. R., 33
Hickman, Arminta Susan, 158
Hickman, John W., 158
Hickman, Susan, 158
Hicks, Dula, 86
Hicks, Willie, 57
Hill, James A., 1
Hill, Charles E., 191
Hill, Chas. E., 191
Hill, Mrs. Cliff, 14
Hill, Mrs. John T., 24
Hines, Henry, 40
Hines, Jno., 40
Hines, Myrtle, 38
Hix, Dorthula, 88
Hix, Dorthula H., 88
Hobbs, daughter, 49
Hobbs, J. C., 49
Hoffmyer, Job, 53
Hogan, Chas., 99
Hogan, James M., 63
Hogue, Elmer, 90
Holland, Belle, 23, 24, 27, 60
Holland, C. L., 27
Hollaway, Melvina, 49
Hollenbeck, John, 15
Hollis, Capt. Geo. W., 13
Hollowell, Fay Temple, 17
Holmes, Francis L., 105
Holton, Lavilla, 171
Hood, J. F., 72
Hooper, John, 92
Hooser, G. H., 109
Hooser, George H., 108
Hooser, Mary, 179
Hopkins, David, 46
Hough, Albert W., 141
Hough, Cora, 59
House, baby, 73
House, Jeff, 73
Houston, J. J., 133
How, Lizzie, 35
How, T. L., 35
Howard, J. T., 116
Howell, child, 35
Howell, Earnest, 54
Howell, Ed, 35
Howell, Edward, 35, 54
Hoyt, Elbert W., 55
Hoyt,, Elbert W., 55, 56
Hubler, William, 101
Huene, Mrs. C. A., 141
Huff, Ed, 191
Huff, infant, 191
Hughes, Daley Grace, 38
Hughes, Theodore, 168
Hughes, Thomas J., 168
Hughes, W. H., 38
Hunt, C. C., 77
Hunt, Mrs. L. C., 138
Hunt, Samuel B., 17
Hupp, Edward, 79
Hurst, A. J., 160, 161
Hurst, Andrew J., 160
Hurst, Arthur, 72
Hurst, Charley, 178
Hurst, Earnest, 72
Hurst, infant child, 61, 72
Hurst, Lee, 61, 72
Hurst, William, 72
Husk, A., 90
Imel, Mrs. W. E., 26
Ingle,, Mrs. Jas., 185
Ingles, Mrs. Joseph, 185
Irwin, Dr. J. B., 129
Irwin, Frisbie, 73
J. P. Miller, 142
Jackson, John M., 105
Jacob Steffeneaur, 40
Jacobs, M. M., 133
Jacoby, Clara Mable, 36
James, John Mrs., 101
Jameson, James Thomas, 69
Jameson, Robert, 69
Jamison, Elizabeth, 111
Jamison, Melissa, 60
Jeff