USA > Kansas > Wabaunsee County > Early history of Wabaunsee County, Kansas, with stories of pioneer days and glimpses of our western border.. > Part 25
Note: The text from this book was generated using artificial intelligence so there may be some errors. The full pages can be found on Archive.org (link on the Part 1 page).
Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10 | Part 11 | Part 12 | Part 13 | Part 14 | Part 15 | Part 16 | Part 17 | Part 18 | Part 19 | Part 20 | Part 21 | Part 22 | Part 23 | Part 24 | Part 25 | Part 26 | Part 27 | Part 28 | Part 29 | Part 30 | Part 31 | Part 32 | Part 33 | Part 34 | Part 35 | Part 36
While not a politician, Mr. Janes has taken a keen interest in matters affecting the interests of the people, especially at such times as the conditions were out of joint. Has always been regarded as one of Wabaunsee county's leading citizens and is ever at the front in forwarding public enterprises.
*Mr. Spencer, father of the Spencerian System of Penmanship, was one of the instructors at this college and a great many times has sat by Mr. Janes' desk giving instructions in penmanship. Mr. Janes' penmanship, today, is an excellent endorsement of Mr. Spencer's work as an instructor.
249
EARLY HISTORY OF WABAUNSEE COUNTY, KAN.
J. J. MITCHELL
Was born in Jasper county, Illinois, on July 19, 1854. A good common school education was supplemented by a course at St. Joseph's College. at Teutopolis, Illinois. On April 12, 1874, was united in mar- riage, at Plainfield, Illinois, to Miss Hannah Bower, four children being born to this union-a daughter, Mrs. Lillie Piersol, of Paola, Kansas, and three sons-Dr. Eden E. Mitchell, of Alma, J. J. Mitchell, Jr., assistant postmaster at Eskridge, and Joseph, who is attending school.
Studied law in the office of Hon. Geo. W. Fithian, member of con- gress from Mr. Mitchell's home district. Was admitted to the bar in 1878, coming to Kansas two years later, locating at Eskridge-at that time the prospective county seat of Wabaunsee county.
Mr. Mitchell stands in the foremost rank of attorneys in Wabaun- see county and is one of our leading citizens. Has represented one side of nearly every important lawsuit since his residence in the county. Has never been beaten by reason of any defect in his plead- ings-a fact that has assured his phenomenal success as a member of his chosen profession.
EDWARD KRAPP
Was a native of Solingen, Germany-boru November 30, 1824. Landed at New Orleans, November 26, 1850. After one year on a farm near St. Louis, came to Wesport landing, Kansas City. In November, 1853, was married to Miss Mary Thoes. Came to Wabaunsee county with his brothers-in-law, Peter and Joseph Thoes, arriving March 1, 1855. Built three log houses-one each week. on their claims four miles south of Alma. Hauled goods from Westport to Fort Riley for two years over the old Mormon Trail, passing through the south part of Wabaunsee county. Then started a store on the farm-the store, for several years, being one of the busiest places in the county. From 1866 to 1888 Mr. Krapp was one of our most energetic and successful cattle dealers. Moved to Alma in 1888 and ten years later disposed of his fine farm of 360 acres. During the war was captain of a militia company called to defend the capital when General Sterling Price threatened the invasion of the state. William Drebing and Joseph Treu were lieutenants in the same company. Dealt much with the Pottawatomie Indians and was a man of great influence with the chiefs of that nation. At one of the most critical periods of the early sixties came to the relief of the settlers by going to the Indian camp on South branch in company with Mr. William Ross, the agent, and inducing the Indians to return to their deserted villages on the reserve
250
EARLY HISTORY OF WABAUNSEE COUNTY, KAN.
(See illustration "Coming back to the Reservation"). No man in Wa- baunsee county has been more closely identified with our early history than has Mr. Krapp. With willing hands and strong arms he assisted in laying the foundation on which the people have built a solid super- structure. He has ever been ready to help the needy-always a friend to the friendless. Though nearly four score years of an eventful life are behind him Mr. Krapp is yet in the enjoyment of his mental faculties and but for a terrible experience in a blizzard* on the old Mormon trail in 1856, would today present an example of hale and hearty manhood with few parallels to be found anywhere.
*Mr. Krapp's lower limbs were frozen while encamped on the head of the Wakarusa in a blizzard. So badly frozen as to be unable to wear his shoes he gave them to a friendless boy who accompanied him on the trip-freighting to Fort Riley.
L. J. WOODARD
Was born in Richmond, Ashtabula county, Ohio, on July 29, 1831. After attending the common schools in Richmond and Monroe, com- pleted a high school course in a select school at Pierpont, Ohio. On October 23, 1850, was united in marriage to Sarah Delilah Davis, six children, four sons and two daughters, being born to this union- Havilah, Byron, Zora D, and John D. Woodard, and Mrs. Cora Clybourne, dec'd, and Mrs. C. Anderson.
In 1870, Mr. Woodard came to Kansas, locating near Beman, but came to Alta Vista on the completion of the Rock Island to that place. Was elected probate judge of Wabaunsee county in 1894 and re-elected in 1896, serving the people four years in one of the most responsible offices within the gift of the people. Since his retirement from office, Judge Woodard, and his estimable help-meet, are enjoying the fruits of a well spent life in one of the neatest and most pleasantly located homes in Alta Vista.
MR. AUGUST MEYER (Dec'd)
Was born at Braunsweitz, Prussia, Germany, October 17, 1818, coming to America in 1848, locating in St. Louis, Missouri. Came to Kansas in 1860, first stopping at Havana, near Wilmington. Came to Alma in 1866. With Mr. Henry Schmitz opened the first store in Alma under the firm name of Schmitz & Meyer, in the lower story of the Kaufman building-our first court house. Was married Septem- ) ber 9, 1870, to Miss Emilie Dieball. Died April 25, 1886, leaving three sons, Otto, Richard, and August. Mr. Meyer was Alma's first post- master, being appointed in 1867, soon after Alma had been designated
251
EARLY HISTORY OF WABAUNSEE COUNTY, KAN.
as the county seat. Mr. Meyer, in conjunction with his business partner, Mr. Henry Schmitz, was ever active in advancing the inter- ests of Alma. They had been instrumental in fixing upon the loca- tion; had erected the first buildings, and left nothing undone that would tend to promote the growth of the town. Mr. Meyer was a man of strong convictions and possessed a will power capable of ensur- ing acquiescence in such views as might be suggested by existing con- ditions. Was faithful as a friend, kind and indulgent as a husband and father, and to those with whom fortune had dealt unkindly was ever a friend in the hour of need.
JOHN C. HENDERSON
Was born March 29, 1833, at New Athens, Harrison county, Ohio. Was married at Peoria, Illinois, June 8. 1859, to Miss Agnes Russell, to whom three sons and a daughter were born-B. R., Charles B., and James R., and Miss Nellie Henderson. Came to Kansas in February, 1871. settling in Mission Creek township. Was elected register of deeds three successive terms, 1885, 1887, and 1889, a period of six years. During the civil war was enrolling officer until the re-organization of the 14th Illinois, when he was commissioned as first lieutenant of Co. G, of that regiment. Was attached to Scofield's division, joining Sherman after his famous march to the sea, at Goldsboro, North Caro- lina. After the close of the war was employed for seven years in the internal revenue service, filling the various positions of assistant assessor, storekeeper, gauger, and assistant inspector. Is extensively engaged, with his sons, in farming and mining investments, but for several years past has enjoyed life in his pleasant home in Alma- filling a warm place in the hearts of the people.
CHARLES C. GARDINER
Was born in Chenango county, New York, in October, 1834. Re- moved with his parents to Akron, Ohio, when seven years of age. After remaining here five years his parents returned to Rhode Island -- their native state, where he grew to manhood. A thorough course of training in the common schools was followed by a higher course at Alfred Academy, in Jamestown, Rhode Island. Came to Kansas in May, 1859, pre-empting a quarter section four miles north of Burlin- game. After working awhile at his trade-that of carpenter-at Lawrence, went to Jefferson City, where he was employed as foreman in a sash and blind factory. While here, in August, 1860, Mr. Gardiner was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Buffington, of Chester county, Pennsylvania, the ceremony performed being that in vogue by the
252 EARLY HISTORY OF WABAUNSEE COUNTY, KAN.
Friends, of which society Mrs. Gardiner was a life-long member. In 1865, Mr. Gardiner returned to Kansas and the following year bought a farm near Waveland, Shawnee county. Came to Wabaunsee county in 1884 and bought the farm of 1,500 acres since known as the Brightside farm, where he resided until 1896, when he retired from the active management of the place. On the Brightside farm are three dwelling houses, three large barns, a steam feed mill, cribs, stock sheds, gran- ary, etc. The farm is well watered and has 17 miles of fence, 20 acres of orchard, and a number of acres of artificial timber, besides many acres of alfalfa. 400 head of cattle and from 200 to 300 head of hogs are, each year, kept on the place. That Mr. Gardiner has made farm- ing a success is evidenced by the fact that the revenue from the products of the farm up to 1896 aggregated the sum of $80.000.
The location of the station and postoffice at Bradford was largely due to Mr. Gardiner's efforts and influence. The building of the flouring mill-burned in 1899-and the establishment of a creamery resulted from Mr. Gardiner's efforts.
In 1854, the subject of this sketch united with the Congregational church, of which organization he has ever been a consistent member. Mr. Gardiner was the father of four children, two sons and two daugh- ters, all of whom were educated at the State Agricultural College, at Manhattan.
JAMES R. HENDERSON
Was born September 10, 1866, at Peoria, Illinois. Came to Kansas with his parents when but five years of age, Mr. Henderson, Sr., set- tling on a farm in Mission Creek township. Taught school two terms, was deputy register of deeds five years and one year assistant cashier of the Alma State Bank. Was elected county clerk in 1893 and ro- elected in 1895. In 1890 was special agent of the census bureau under Noble Prentis-compiling mortgage statistics-his field being the counties of Shawnee, Morris. Greenwood, and Pratt. Continued with Mr. Prentis until the close of the work at Newton, Mr. Henderson's methods and neat manuscript ensuring his retention in clerical work to the last-efficiency in this as in every other employment being characteristic of one of Wabaunsee county's most popular officials.
Mr. Henderson is one of the firm of Henderson Bros .. abstracters and dealers in real estate. Are also heavy stockholders in the Wyom- ing Copper & Gold Mining Co., besides owning valuable mineral lands in the Arkansas lead and zine fields.
On June 18, 1896, the subject of this sketch was united in marriage to Miss Hannah Crafts, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Crafts, of Alma. Little Ruth, aged four years, is the only child. The family resides in one of the coziest homes in Alma.
253
EARLY HISTORY OF WABAUNSEE COUNTY, KAN.
J. B. BARNES
Was born in Mahoning county, Ohio, June 20, 1846. Was educated at Canfield, and Poland, Ohio, being a graduate of Poland Academy. Read law in the office of Hon. S. W. Gilson, of Canfield. Was admitted to the bar in 1870 and in 1884 came to Wabaunsee county and two years later was elected county attorney. Was re-elected in 1888, and again elected in 1894. In criminal litigation as well as in civil practice Mr. Barnes has been successful in an eminent degree-the number of crim- inals sent to the penitentiary at Lansing through his efforts furnish- ing indubitable proof in the one case and the flattering increase in the number of his clients indicating his popularity as an attorney. Mr. Barnes has been mentioned as an available and possible candidate for the judgeship of this, the 35th judicial district. Though reluctant to make the race the people may yet present arguments so forcible as to insure his candidacy-and election.
DR. O. S. CHESTER
Was born at Fairfield, Jefferson county, Iowa, June 1, 1866. Was educated at the Des Moines High school, and the Iowa Wesleyan Uni- versity. at Mt. Pleasant. Took a course in medicine at the Missouri Medical college, of St. Louis, supplemented by three courses at the Marion Sims college. of the same city, being a graduate of the latter institution-class of 1889. On September 8, 1891, was united in mar- riage at Tescot, Kansas, to Miss Myrtle S. Smith, three children being born to this union-Mahrea, Lynn, and Tillie Clair. Dr. Chester came to Wabaunsee county in December, 1898. Stands high in his profes- sion, and in March, 1902, was appointed by Governor Stanley to the office of coroner of Wabaunsee county, to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Dr. H. F. Palenske, by reason of his removal to Arkansas. Dr. Chester filled the position of county health officer two successive terms, and during the visitation of smallpox gave evidence to the people of the wisdom of his appointment. For several years has been at the head of the Order of Maccabees in Alma-which, iu itself, is a certificate of good standing among the people with whom Dr. Chester has cast his lot.
MR. HENRY RONNAU (Dec'd)
Was born in Schleswig Holstein, Germany, March 23, 1841. Came to America in 1866 and to Wabaunsee county in 1868, settling on the Pottawatomie reserve when first thrown open to settlement. Pete and Henry-Reding and Ronnau-took claims in what is now Kaw
254 EARLY HISTORY OF WABAUNSER COUNTY, KAN.
township when their only neighbors were Indians, who had chosen the best lands for their allotments. On November 2, 1873, the subject of this sketch was united in marriage to Miss Frances Auer, to whom four sons were born-Frank. George, Fred, and Edward. On August 3, 1895. the subject of this sketch died at his home, in Kaw township, at the age of 54 years. 4 months, and Il days. A kind husband and father had gone to rest. A good citizen, one of our early pioneers, had gone home to that better land beyond the grave.
HENRY FAUERBACH
Was born in the Kingdom of Hanover. Germany, September 14, 1833. Came to America with his parents, who settled in Monroe county, Ilinois. Was raised here, getting his education behind the plow. Came to Kansas, first, in 1856, but went to Nebraska the same year. Was employed by Majors, Russell, and Waddell, who had the contract for freighting supplies to the military posts. Crossed the plains a number of times between the Missouri river and Salt Lake. In 1860. sought for golden treasures in the mountains of Colorado but found them not. Again tried freighting-this time on his own hook -between the Missouri river and the Rocky Mountains-on both the Platte and Santa Fe routes. On the last trip loaded at Lawrence- then the terminus of the Union Pacific railroad-for New Mexico. Was corraled by Indians on Cow creek for eight days, the incident being mentioned by Captain Inman in his book. Settled in Wabaun- see county in 1868, being one of the first white settlers on the Pott :- watomie reserve, soon after the Indian lands were opened for settle- ment.
Has made a success of farming on one of the finest farms in the Mill creek valley. Follows up-to-date methods. Ilas raised a worthy family of sons and daughters, who have inherited a competence that includes the many good qualities of one of Wabaunsee county's leading citizens.
S. A. BALDWIN
Was born in Meriden, Connecticut, June 29, 1827. When but three years of age his parents moved to New Britain, Conn. Attended school here until sixteen years of age, when he accepted a position as clerk and bookkeeper for his unele, J. G. Baldwin, in his store at Middletown. Remained with his uncle four years when he purchased an interest in a manufacturing concern located at Branford, Coun., having charge of the packing and shipping department. To better distribute the goods manufactured by the firm (locks of all descrip-
255
EARLY HISTORY OF WABAUNSEE COUNTY, KAN.
tions, door knobs, etc.) a store was opened in New York City, Mr. Baldwin taking charge. After two years here disposed of a part of his interest and came to Kansas as a member of the "Connecticut Colony," organized by Mr. C. B. Lines, of New Haven. The colony started early in the spring of 1856. The party outfitted at Kansas City, purchasing teams and supplies, and in due time arrived at Wabaunsee, near which place Mr. Baldwin has since resided. In the fall Mr. Baldwin returned East and was married to Miss Jane Augusta Barnes, of New Haven. In the spring of 1857 Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin came West and lived in a tent until the completion of their house.
Besides filling the office of township treasurer for seven years Mr. Baldwin was one of the trustees having in charge the building of the Wamego bridge across Kansas river, has served several years as deputy clerk of the district court. was twice elected register of deeds-1863 and 1865: was appointed county clerk on the death of Mr. H. M. Sel- den. in July, 1865, and served two terms as a member of the state legislature-faithful service in these several offices of trust securing for one of our oldest and most highly respected citizens an enviable place in the esteem of his constituents.
ROBERT SIMMONS
Was born August 10, 1845. in St. Louis, Missouri. Moved with his parents to Illinois in the early fifties. Was married in 1874 to Miss Caroline A. Blaksley. of Crystal Lake, Henry county, Illinois. Came to Kansas in 1879, Jocating at Eskridge, where the family has since resided. During the war enlisted in Co. G, 17th Illinois Cavalry, and now holds the position of Adjutant of W. H. Earl Post, No. 75. Mr. and Mrs. Simmons are estimable people. Their only daughter, Miss Josie May, is a young lady of rare accomplishments-one of the gradu- ates of the Eskridge schools, class of 1892. See illustration.
L. M. CHRISTY
Was born at Leetonia, Ohio. April 6, 1873. Came with his parents to Kansas in 1879. Was educated in the public schools of Manhattan. Learned the printer's trade and has mastered the most intricate prob- lems that confront the progressive printer. Was for three years fore- man of the Alma Signal office and for a year past has been foreman of the Eskridge Star. In the battle of life Mr. Christy has set an example worthy of emulation-especially to young men thrown on their own resources. On April 23, 1902. Mr. Christy was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Paige. an accomplished young lady of Eskridge.
256
EARLY HISTORY OF WABAUNSEE COUNTY, KAN.
GEORGE SUTHERLAND
Was born in Marshall, Michigan, July 27, 1861, removing with his parents to Minnesota when but six years of age. Came to Kansas in 1871. his parents locating in Franklin county. In 1878 Mr. Sutherland came to Alma, where he learned the trade of saddler and harness maker with Mr. Henry Pippert. In September, 1883, was united in marriage to Miss Augusta M. Wendland, six children, a son and five daughters, being born to this union. Mr. Sutherland is serving his fourth year as a member of the school board and his fifth term as mayor of Alma-the best of indications that he has the confidence of the people. Besides a substantial business house Mr. Sutherland owns one of the many handsome residences in Alma. See illustration.
JOHN SCHWANKE (Dec'd)
Was born in Prussia, Germany, January 6, 1835. Came to America when but 17 years of age. Three years later came to Kansas, locating on South Branch of Mill creek. On February 2, 1862, was married to Miss Wilhelmina Hankammer, ten children being born to this union, eight of whom are now living-Charles, William, Henry, Mrs. Achah Schreiber, Mrs. Emma Koch, Mrs. Clara Schreiber, and Misses Mary and Anne. Mr. Schwanke died on July 15, 1887.
Mr. Schwanke was one of the first settlers of Farmer township --- then Alma township-and during his life was a man of much influence. In February, 1873, he was appointed postmaster at Moltke (Cobb), on the mail line from Alma to Council Grove, holding the office until it was discontinued by reason of a lack of patronage resulting from the building of the M. A. & B. Railway.
M. F. TRIVETT
Was born at Jefferson, Ashe county, North Carolina, July 10, 1845. The education received at Jefferson Academy was supplemented by a college course at Independence, Virginia. Received his first medical education at Jefferson, followed by a course of lectures at Newburn. North Carolina. Is also a graduate of the College of Physicians and Surgeons, at St. Louis. After practicing one year at Elk Cross Roads, North Carolina, came West in 1874-driving overland. Was six months on the road. Was looking for a location and as his funds were exhausted concluded to stop-especially as the country in the vicinity of Eskridge seemed to possess all the requisites of an ideal home. Bought the Sam Waldo homestead, a half mile south of the "Corners,"
257
EARLY HISTORY OF WABAUNSEE COUNTY, KAN.
and engaged in farming in conjunction with the practice of his pro- fession. Has been eminently successful as a physician. Was one of the organizers of the Eskridge State Bank and has ever since been a member of the board of directors and a heavy stockholder of the bank. Besides several fine farms, Dr. Trivett owns one of the many hand- some homes in Eskridge and is ever at the front in advancing the material interests of the city-near which he located nearly thirty years ago and in which he built the first house.
MR W. D. DEANS (Dec'd)
Was born at Moscow, Illinois, October 12, 1826. Came to Alma in 1883, but kept a store at Albion Postoffice, near the present site of Alta Vista several years before moving to the county seat. Was county surveyor four terms and was again the nominee for that office when the end came. Was a member of the city council several years and was mayor of Alma at the time of his death, which occurred on October 10, 1897. Was also vice-president and one of the directors of of the Alma State Bank when Death called him from his earthly cares. Nine children survived him, six of whom lived in Kansas- Rev. John Deans, of Lyon county, David, for several years foreman of the Signal office, Oscar, one of our teachers, Charlie, living in Texas, Mrs. Mollie Riley, of Wichita, and Mrs. Ida Brady, of Manhattan. Mr. Deans was one of of Alma's most highly esteemed citizens- honored as few men have been honored and worthy of every honor bestowed upon him.
WILLIAM PROTHERO
Was born in Baltimore, Maryland, but lived several years near Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Emigrated to Rock River Valley, near Ster- ling, Illinois, in 1840. In 1859 was a delegate to the state convention, at Bloomington, Illinois, where John M. Palmer presided. Witnessed the organization of the Republican party in Illinois. Among the del- egates present were Abraham Lincoln, Richard Yates, "Long John" Wentworth, and Colonel Bissell, who received the nomination as first republican candidate for governor. The convention put forward the name of Abraham Lincoln for U. S. Senator. The great debate be- tween Lincoln and Douglas followed and resulted in the election of Lincoln to the presidency. For thirty-five years Mr. Prothero has made his home in Wilmington. For many years he has been elected and re-elected justice of the peace and is one of our leading citizens.
258
EARLY HISTORY OF WABA UNSEE COUNTY, KAN.
MR. JOHN COPP (Dec'd)
Was born at Steinheim, Province of Wurtemburg, Germany, December 31, 1832. Came to America with his uncle, John Copp. when but 16 years old, locating at Reading. Pennsylvania. Came to Kansas in 1856, and in the following year was married to Miss Mary Manzenbrinck, whose parents pre-empted the land afterwards sold to Christian Wertzberger. Mr. Copp lived first on the Finney ranch, near Halifax. then at Copp's station. near Eskridge. on the Topeka and Council Grove mail route, but later at Paxico. In his day but few men in the county wielded greater influence. Was county commis- sioner from 1870 to 1872-a stormy period in our county's history. He was a man of firm convictions, warmly espoused the cause of his friends, and his few enemies always knew where to find him-always striking out from the shoulder, irrespective of consequences to himself as well as those arrayed against him in a cause he considered just and right. Mr. Copp died March 10, 1888, at San Diego, California, highly esteemed by all.
LARDNER J. McCRUMB
Was born in Mercer, now Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, March 30, 1843. Received as good educational advantages as the country afforded. Enlisted in the 83rd Pennsylvania Infantry on August 19, 1861. Discharged for disability March, 1863. Re-enlisted in June and participated in the Gettysburg campaign. Enlisted for the third time in February, 1864, in the 14th Pa. Cavalry, and mustered out at Fort Leavenworth in November, 1865. In March, 1870, was united in mar- riage to Miss Jennie A. Barker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Barker, of Mission creek. Besides farming, Mr. McCrumb has made a specialty of the best breeds of horses, meeting with financial success in whatever he bas undertaken. Has also been successful from a political standpoint, having been elected representative in 1878, and re-elected in 1880. Is president of the Alma National Bank, aud resides in one of the prettiest homes in the Mill creek valley, one and a half miles east of McFarland.
Need help finding more records? Try our genealogical records directory which has more than 1 million sources to help you more easily locate the available records.