Window display honors Valley Falls' Christmas birthday

— by Betty Jane Wilson, Valley Falls Historical Society President

The Valley Falls Historical Society's seasonal window scene depicting a Grasshopper Falls birthday greeting, deer and buffalo, reminiscent of the town's discovery combined with traditional holiday good wishes will remain on display until late January 2011, when a new theme will be displayed.

The veteran's window, honoring military service men and women, past and present, will usher in the New Year in mid-January 2011.

The society's museum will be closed Saturday, Jan. 1, 2011. Winter operating hours will be announced at a later date.

Happy Birthday Valley Falls!

"Ten-foot falls!" yelled pioneer James Frazier. His three companions
came running and in a minute Grasshopper Falls was discovered.
Traditionally, the story is repeated in December as "A Happy Birthday
Grasshopper Falls (Valley Falls)" greeting.

Christmas Day, 1854
On the morning of Saturday, December 23, 1854, four men — James
Frazier, Robert Riddle, Andrew J. Whitney, and Hozea B. Jolly — set
out on foot from their camp on the west side of the Grasshopper River
(now the Delaware). After traveling north about three or four miles,
they crossed the present site of Valley Falls, at the corner of
Sycamore and Sarah streets. A short distance farther up, they crossed
the Grasshopper River and wandered up to about the mouth of Coal Creek
before they started their return trip. A short distance above the
present town site, at the mouth of Cedar Creek, they found an Indian
village and tried to make them understand that the object of their
search was a waterfall for a mill site, but did not get any
intelligible directions. Continuing their return trip, they reached
the point where they had crossed the river. Here James Frazier
wandered down a trail along the river hoping to find a fjord. While
still in the hazel brush, he heard water running over the rocks, and
yelled, "ten foot falls!" (really only about three feet high), at the
top of his voice. The others came running and in a minute more,
Grasshopper Falls (Valley Falls) was discovered. They returned to the
high prairie and moved their camp up to this point on the 24th, and
drove stakes for their claim on Monday, December 25th, Christmas Day,
then commenced the erection of a cabin. Thus Christmas Day, which has
so many meanings for everyone, has a very special meaning for the
people of Valley Falls.

— Researched by late historian Arthur Strawn and printed in The
Vindicator Dec. 26, 1963.

The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be closed Dec. 25 and
Jan. 1. Winter operation hours will be announced later, reports Betty
Jane Wilson, historical society president.

Recollections of Mr. Piazzek

- compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

Part II of II

"We can't eat their flour" claimed Joe Piazzek's customers referring to the Oak Hill Flour Mill "about 60 miles below us and built at an expense of $13,000 for machinery alone" wrote Mr. Piazzek, continuing to relate incidents in his active career.

"I paid the Oak Hill Mill a visit and found smutty and rusty wheat there," he wrote.

"The proprietors showed me how they would make whiter flour out of buckwheat. I took the hint and bought a secondhand mill rig, all wood, for $40, a pair of 4-foot burrs for $80, made another wooden water-wheel, shaft and all and started my homemade mill February 1862, at a cost, all told, not including my labor, of $240. My customers could not wait, but piled grists (batches of grain) in this open sawmill building without doors for me to grind when ready. 

"Finally we started with a smutter (apparently smut remover) running like double-geared lightening and made flour right away that they said was o.k. . . .    

"The Civil War now shut off all our cotton. General Lane sent us seed and people sowed and raised small patches, and now another trouble began. 'Can't you gin our cotton?' By this time, I owned all of the mill. I got tired of being teased and ordered a gin from Massachusetts — paid $60 for the gin, $40 express charges — hauled it home and set it up, ginning for all — some as far as 100 miles away. The gin is now in the possession of the historical society in Topeka, Kan. The $240 mill ran for 18 years with little change on all-around custom, including the cities of Atchison, Leavenworth, Topeka, and regular big grists from St. Marie's Mission. 

"In 1880, I built my new stone mill, costing some $16,000 . I also owned the upper Half Mound mill, which I sold just in the nick of time for $7,000 to help pay the depositors of the Valley Bank, of which I was vice president, dollar for dollar. The latter mill, a few years after, sold for $200 for junk. In my new all-roller mill, I happened to get my money back, buying wheat at 90 cents and selling flour at $4 a hundred and giving complete satisfaction. There are people living now who declare they never ate better bread than that made out of the flour I sold them. 

"My honest miller, Mat. Glassel, stayed with me most of this time, also George Stanger, who lingered for 25 years from boyhood until he became a farmer. He now drives up occasionally in his auto. I often used to say to him 'Go make hay while the sun shines for it won't last. The farmers will get to be the aristocrats.' He says it came true. 

"In 1906, I paid out on another bank run, caused by a 'smart alec.' There was some scratching, but I made it — dollar for dollar to the depositors, in spite of the fact that the Missouri National also went up with $1,500 of my money. I kept up  and gave away one farm to a kin of 480 acres, now worth $50,000 and $60,000.

"Summing it up, I started here when I was 21 years old, worked like a tiger, made barrels of money, and now at 82 years old, have an idle woolen mill, an out-of-date oil mill, thousands in uncollected notes, a partly idle flour mill . . . quite a lot of land, which certain cheats had no use for . . . There must be something in inborn management acquired during mill tub times. Out of 10 mills  once on the Grasshopper River, my mill is the only one left. The Oak Mill, although rebuilt and overhauled, did not, at the sheriff's sale, bring the price of overhauling. An appreciative public smashed all the windows, unbarred the doors . . . and there it stands,  a wreck. My own mill contains some seven bullets shot through the windows lately."     — Yours truly, J.M. Piazzek

The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 18.

Recollections of Mr. Piazzek

— Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

Part I of II

"Out of 10 mills once on Grasshopper River (now Delaware River), my mill is the only one left and is target for progressive vandal and sport" were words written by J.M. (Joe) Piazzek addressed to "Editor American Miller" apparently in response to a request from the publications editor following a previous communication with Piazzek. No date is indicated; however, the news item is titled "Poland+Kansas+60 years." Mr. Piazzek wrote:

"I was born in Poland in a room separated from a flour mill by a brick partition, learned my trade at about 18 years of age and was ready for military duty. To gain some time to travel, I volunteered and obtained a permit after one night in the barracks. I reached America in 1854 and worked on my first job in Newton, Ky. Thence, I took a steamboat for Kansas City, but being  unable to see the city and no one informing me, I was still on board when the boat went past and later stuck on a sandbar. The next morning I footed it 22 miles to Weston, Mo., where I found work helping to build a small mill at Grasshopper Falls (now Valley Falls, Kan.)

"We started building this sawmill in April 1855. Our nearest neighbors were the Indians up along the creek. In May, when it warmed up, we began to 'smell Indian.' Upon investigation, we found an Indian buried in the forks of a tree, looking through the cracks of his rudely hewed-out coffin. He was wrapped in a blanket — had his bow and arrows, tin plate, fork and knife, his pipe, tobacco, matches, needle, thread, and a playing three spot card with 'Pa, Po, Ok' marked thereon. The body was there until fall when our first doctor came along and insisted that I should show him the Indian. We crossed on the dam and on arriving found the Indian down and scattered in the weeds. The doctor got quite huffy because I did not help him clean the bones to put in a sack for a manikin (sic), which he kept as long as he lived.

"We excavated for the mill building in the bank just where the Indians had their path to cross the creek, and I dodged quite often to avoid a pony carrying a loosely swaying Indian within a few inches of the edge of our pit, fearing pony, Indian, and all would come down on top of me.

"We started sawing about Christmas and Isaac Cody, Buffalo Bill's father, was my boss. In order to get my wages, I bought one-quarter interest. In 1856, I ground the first corn raised in Kansas on a little bit of a mill with a wooden water wheel. My customers wanted a wool-carding machine, so I got it on my own hook against the advice of my partners and cleared $900 the first season and added more cards."

Mr. Piazzek's milling career expands when he bows to customers' pleas for him to build a flour mill. Details in Part II.

The historical society museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4. The 2011 historical society calendars are available at the museum.  

First view from Half Mound "magnificent and sublime"

"A view from twelve to eighteen miles can be had in every direction," commented a reporter for the Kansas New Era dated Aug. 25, 1877. 

The writer continued: "Last week we took our first view from the summit of the Half Mound on the east bank of the Delaware, six miles above Valley Falls. The Half Mound seems to be a detached portion of the dividing ridge, which separates the waters of Coal Creek from the north and stands immediately upon the river's bank. Long years ago, it was undoubtedly a complete mound, but the west half has been carried away by the winding Delaware, which flows at its base. 

"At the foot of the mound on the west side, stands the flouring mills belonging to Hillyer and Co. with accompanying graineries, ware houses, cribs, etc. with  M.D. James in charge. Half Mound makes no pretentions toward a village or town site at present, although there are four or five families living within a short distance of the mills. The Kansas Central (R.R.) has a switch within a quarter of a mile, but no regular station (depot). The train is generally stopped by waving a hat, and we saw one man bring the puffing engine to a sudden halt by waving a 'jug.' "

"Standing upon the elevation, one sees spread out before him like a huge checker board at least one third of Jefferson and a large portion of Jackson and Atchison counties. Valley Falls and Nortonville and Arrington are in full view. The winding streams with their fringes of timber, together with orchard groves and hedges, combine to make the view magnificent and sublime."

Information source: Yesteryears, compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, Valley Falls Historical Society President.

The historical society museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. Historical Society calendars are available at the museum.

1927 Almanac advises parents on feeding youngin’s

— Betty Jane Wilson, historical society president 

"Old fashioned cornmeal mush is good food for a child's evening meal. Serve with syrup and butter or cream and sugar or milk and sugar," advised the Rexall Family Almanac of 1927. 

The popular United Drug Co. publication of weather forecasts, moon phases and countless gems of family advice continued with the following children's diet:

"Below the age of six or seven, the child should have little or no meat, a small amount of scraped beef, a bit of chicken or an occasional cup of broth are sufficient. In these early years, protein needed is furnished chiefly by eggs and milk. The fat in a child's diet is supplied by cream, butter, and vegetable oils. Natural brown rice, oatmeal, whole wheat, egg yolk, apples, dates, and prunes are all rich in iron. Cocoa and dried figs supply magnesium."

The report continues listing the virtues of fruit and vegetables with the conclusion:
"It is estimated that the child from three to six years of age needs about one-half as much protein and fat as a grown person and only one-third as much carbohydrates."

"No Happy Meals?" our compiler Betty Jane Wilson asks.

The historical society museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 20. Dodie Bolz and Dee Bayless will be hosts.

Autumn color, veterans honored in window display

by Betty Jane Wilson, historical society president

A serene country scene, enhanced by a smattering of nature's unique
and variegated bounties, affords credence to a mega "Give Thanks"
poster planted midst the harvest assortment. Pumpkins, sans carved
features, overflowing cornucopias stuffed with colorful treasures,
sunflowers galore towering over large and small pine cones nestled
among brilliant leaves fallen from parent trees, all under the silent
visage of a wise old owl, complete the November autumn scene of the
Valley Falls Historical Society Museum.

"Lest We Forget" . . . mini military service flags prominently
displayed against an American flag background with veterans support
slogans placed among the flags honor all veterans past and present on
Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Remember the price of freedom.

Frank and Edie Shrimplin will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 13.

1898 School Fire

by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

"The unexpected happened this time. Our magnificent public school
house a pile of ruins." From the Valley Falls Historical Society
files, the following report, dated Oct. 5, 1898:

"No one had the remotest thought that the school house, the seat of
learning and the pride of the city, was the next to be taken by the
fire.

"Just before ten o'clock, less than an hour after school had been
called, Mrs. E. Summerfelt first noticed smoke issuing from the roof
of the school house and she hastened to the school rooms to give the
alarm. Elbert Allen happened to be in the school yard and fled to the
fire bell and sounded the alarm. The very tones of the bell, the
sharp, strong clangs seemed to mean a fire sure enough . . .

"The fire company and everyone else responded promptly and soon there
were streams of people hurrying to the school house where it was
feared that hundreds of children would be in danger. Their fears were
soon relieved, the teachers and pupils were all out of the burning
building and were safe.

"The fire spread rapidly under and over the large roof and it was soon
evident it was doomed. First the water pressure was inadequate . . .
people entered rooms and threw out books, slates, desks, and anything
they could handle. The water pressure improved and after roofs fell
in, the fire was soon under control and by half past eleven, the
worst was over.

"The lower floors were not very badly damaged and ceilings were fair.
The stone walls remained intact and only one chimney fell down. The
school was built in 1866. The building was insured for $8,000, which
will not cover the loss.

"When school will be resumed, even in temporary rooms, or what will be
done about rebuilding, has not been determined. Whether the fire
originated from a defective flue or a spark on the dry roof will
perhaps never be known."

The historical society museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 6. Admission is free. The 2011 calendars are available.

Eventful picnic at the grove

by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

"If you want a nice day out, go to Valley Falls and charter 'The Delaware' for a ride up the river" recommended the Friday, Aug. 14, 1896, Nortonville Herald. 

The news source reported on a picnic excursion to Valley Falls:

"Last Friday afternoon about 18 couples of young people went to Valley Falls intending to take the steamer boat ride to Riverside Park and spend the remainder of the day in that resort, but the river was up so high that the voyage was too perilous. So, the boat crew landed the party in a beautiful grove near town where an enjoyable afternoon was spent. The party arrived at Valley Falls without an accident except the turning over of one buggy on Newman's Hill by a careless driver. No one was hurt. The couple was picked up and the procession proceeded. 

The proprietor of the steamboat 'The Delaware,' Mr. D.F. Piazzek, is a very accommodating, gentlemanly fellow and he courteously left his work at the bank to help make the short ride a success. When it was found impossible to 'stem the tide' any farther than Kendall's Grove, the boat managers furnished our party camp chairs, benches, ice water and did all they could to make them enjoy themselves and did not make any charge for the ride. In the afternoon some Valley Falls young people came to the Grove to picnic. They did not behave themselves as gentlemen and ladies should, did not treat the Nortonville crowd respectfully, drank all the water, carried away the tank and when a Nortonville lady and gentleman were carrying a bucket of water from a house nearby, kicked the bucket out of their hands. 

Valley Falls is a good place to go generally to have a good time, but there are some young men there (smart alexs) (sic) whose early education in etiquette has been neglected. The Nortonville party enjoyed the day's outing and the drive home at night was delightful." *Information Source — Yesteryears

The society's museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 16. Admission is free.

2010 Annual Meeting

Best ball game; Grasshopper Falls statistics 1870

by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

"One of the best games of ball ever played in the county or the state
came off last Saturday at Grasshopper Falls between the Red Jackets of
that place and Eagles of this place, resulting in a victory for the
latter club by a score of 18 to 11," reported J.W. Roberts, editor of
the Independent, Oskaloosa, Sept. 3, 1870.

The editor continued, "The Red Jackets, although one of the youngest,
are among the best clubs in the county and are going to make
themselves felt."

The 140 years ago issue also included Jefferson County statistics for
that time of which Grasshopper Falls reported 415 houses and 442
families. Among the 51 wealthiest men in the county, Grasshopper Falls
Township men were S.C. Gephart, G.W. May, Jo Miller, F. Ferguson, R.H.
Crosby, Cal Smith, Wm. Gragg, W. Crosby, and Geo. Van Gaasbeck.

The oldest man in the county was "Harry Nichols (colored), reported at
108 years, though there was some uncertainty at that point;" the
oldest woman was Elizabeth Conwell, 89, both resided in Oskaloosa.

The oldest persons in Grasshopper Falls Township were Curtis Howe, 98,
and Anna Bowles, 77. The largest owners of improved land: N.H. Harmon,
380 acres, Finley Ferguson, 480, E.E. Hutchins, 400, G.W. May, 300,
all in Grasshopper Falls Township.

Other township owners were J.P. Barnes, 400 acres, Rock Creek; G.
Hudson, 450, W.H. Coppinger, 700, N.A. Howard, 360, Jefferson
Township; C.A. Buck, 700 acres, J.A. Patterson, 338, Oskaloosa
Township; and R.G. Elliott, 400 acres, Sarcoxie Township. Non-
residents owned larger tracts of land than any of the Jefferson County
listings.

The Valley Falls museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
Admission is free.

October window display

by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

A colorful mural of some 108 inches plus, depicting an autumn country scene, serves as a backdrop for the October window display at the Valley Falls Historical Society museum.

A deserted barn near a small pond, suggestive as a haven for Hallowe'en pranksters, bears no evidence of trickery or witchery, no blood curdling sounds from within and no gory sentinels on the outside.

A distant crop of pumpkins is enhanced by a close-up pyramid of a solitary pumpkin, surrounded by cousins with funny painted faces.

To complete the scene, a regal clan of jet black cats with glaring orange eyes, accompanied by some playful friends, make their presence known by sight, not by yowling meows.

No headless horseman, no Ichabod Crane, No Sleepy Hollow invades the tranquil scene. Even the wise old owl perched above the quiet view emits not an audible hoot. All visible characters are gentle harbingers of a less sedative atmosphere with the approaching fun day of tricks or treats and costumes for Hallowe'en events.

The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9. Admission is free.

Museum visitors on Grasshopper Falls Day

by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

Visitors at the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum Grasshopper
Falls Day, Sept. 18, were:

Brent and Johanna Cobb, Oskaloosa; John Schoenfeldt, Ozawkie; Dot and
Bob Hensley, Olathe; Fred and Lynne Leif, Kansas City, Mo.; and Sonya
Staples and Hunter Aspindale;

Francis and Rosalie Hosler; Francis and Virginia Grollmes, Edna
Coleman, Jeanette Smith, Tamie, Richard, and Shelby Ferrell, Irene
Hurst, Tamie and William Willhite, Eleanor Pears, Kyle, Laura,
Jackson, and Myles Reich, Dera and Chris Erhart, Leo Grollmes, and
Ione Botkin, all Valley Falls.

Special hosts for the day were: Dodie Bolz, Dee Bayless, Geneva
Lonard, Ellen Schrick, Patty Brown, Anna Irwin, Dalene Senn, Maxine
Hefty, Ella Mae Holding, and Susan Phillips.

Anna Irwin and Dalene Senn will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 25. Admission is free.

Looking for a DVD player for the museum

The museum is in need of a DVD player, to play the films created by the historical society for guests. If you have a working player you'd be willing to donate, please contact Betty Jane at 785-945-3576, or Julie at 785-876-2445.

Grasshopper fame depicted in display

—Betty Jane Wilson, society president

Despised by farmers for his voracious appetite, berated by the frugal ants of folklore for his irresponsible capers, the indestructible grasshopper lives on.

Featured in the September Valley Falls Historical Society Museum window display, the winged creature enjoys celebrity status in the city’s history.

Located center stage, an aged weather beaten replica of the insect surrounded by late 1900 and early 2000 Grasshopper Days programs promoting celebrations are evidence of prior days of fun and frolic.

A mega mural backdrop depicting a 19th century locomotive on the old river bridge crossing the Delaware (formerly Grasshopper River) coupled with photos of 20th century “doodle bug” rail transportation and depot plus late years photos of organization sponsored Grasshopper Day concessions touting delectable “grasshopper legs” enhance the image of the survival of the grasshopper as symbolic of the town’s discovery and original Grasshopper Falls name.

The veterans’ window continues to honor our veterans past and present and to support our troops world wide.

The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 4.

Music wasn't what visitor was hoping for

—by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

“Music hath charms to soothe the savage beast” declares 17th century poet William Congreve. A December 1873 music-loving visitor to Grasshopper Falls may have had cause to dispute the poet’s fantasy.

The story, according to the Kansas New Era, is that the gentleman was awakened early in the morning in his hotel room by the sweet strains of “Annie Laurie” from some brass instrument in the neighborhood.

The performer, although perhaps not a very artistic one, had a vigorous pair of lungs and great powers of endurance.

The stranger opened his window and listened to the soul-stirring strains for a couple of hours then went to breakfast after which he lit his cigar, sat by the window and drank in the incessant melody until the noon dinner hour.

After dinner the musician seemed to run out of tunes and settled down to “listen to the mocking bird.” The visitor listened for some time to the celebrated warbler’s trifling repetitions. It began to get stale, but from the brass lips of the instrument came an ever increasing demand to “listen, listen, listen” to this same old bird.

Why should he keep listening to a mocking bird he didn’t care a cent about when he wanted his supper? After supper he stepped out on the street thinking the musician had silenced his horn. Not so! The night air was rent with demand to “listen, listen, listen” to the mocking bird.

He pulled his hat over his ears and rushed to the suburbs. Just as the notes of the horn grew faint, from a loud tuned piano and the piercing throat of a young lady across the street came the shrill shrieks of a new demand to have the same old mocking bird attended to and if this were not enough, a brass band over Crosby and Randall’s Store suddenly split the air with a loud crash from its brazen throats hurling forth the terrible information that it too owned a mocking bird it wished to have listened to.

Booming from the deep trombones, a crashing swirl from the trumpets and a sledge hammer banging of the big drums, all seemed determined to have their birds attended to or perish in the attempt.

Our friend fled back to town to escape the overwhelming demands of the screeching voice and band’s beseeching voice and band’s beseeching to come and “listen to the mocking bird.”

He sought refuge in a dry goods store where he found one of the city’s merchants entertaining his canine friend, Snider, with the plaintive wail of a melancholy flute and in a piteous bewailing as if suffering from tight boots implored Snider to “listen to the mocking bird.”

This crushing the plaintive melody of the mocking bird through the disjointed spasms of a broken flute, made a howling waste of our friend’s affection for music. He rushed to the hotel, seized his carpet bag and left for the first train.

Maxine Hefty and Betty Jane Wilson will be the museum hosts Saturday, Aug. 21. The museum opens at 10 a.m.

Sunflower Unit honored in museum window

— by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

The August window display in the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum pays homage to the 60th anniversary of the Sunflower Educational Extension Unit.

A variety of project examples, including shoulder bags, decorative tinware, macrame, desk chair, caning chair equipment are on display. Also included are photos of scholarship winners, achievement citations, and luncheons surrounded by a large poster with condensed history of the unit reflecting the origin, objectives, and accomplishments of the organization.

Two history books with newspaper clippings, membership lists, awards, activity fliers, and photos are available for perusal in the museum.

The veterans’ window continues to honor servicemen and women with patriotic flags and memorials.

Ella Mae Holding and Betty Jane Wilson will be museum hosts starting at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, and staying open until it becomes too hot.

Miss Ring: Farewell

—by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

The Valley Falls New Era, March 18, 1899, E.P. Karr, editor:

“Miss Ring is dead.
“Funeral services were held from the Congregational Church conducted by her pastor and longtime friend, the Rev. Skinner.”

Quoting in part from the Rev. Skinner’s sermon:

“Forty-one years ago our sainted sister landed in Grasshopper Falls. She came as others have done, having imbibed the free state principles in her Boston home—the seat of American learning, culture and genius.

“She brought her culture and genius. She brought her culture and principles with her, putting them into practice where they were most needed. Her courage was unflinching as her 40-day trip behind 12 yoke of oxen across the plains testify. (referring to the trip from Grasshopper Falls to Denver.)

“She was the first school teacher in Denver where she made a name for herself not effaced today. There, as in Valley Falls, no entertainment was complete without her and the exhibitions under her care were not only unique, but as near perfection as possible. Her faith was love and charity.”

Her obituary included the following information:

“Miss Lydia Maria Ring was born at Greensboro, Vt., Oct. 26, 1814. Her girlhood days were spent there. Her family then moved to Boston. She came to Kansas in 1858 where she spent nine months, establishing a select school at Grasshopper Falls, then opened a school in Leavenworth and in 1860 departed Kansas for Denver.”

Another longtime friend, A.G. Patrick, for many years a Valley Falls resident, wrote the following from his California home:

“Some 40 years ago our acquaintance began and we well recalled the rainy night that ushered her into Kansas. As a school teacher at the Falls, she gave universal satisfaction and endeared herself with loving regard to all the young folks at the time, and as pioneer school marm of Colorado in 1859 (?) 1860. She will long be remembered by the oldest settlers of Denver.

“She was held in such high esteem that the town company of Denver donated her a good lot upon which she built a schoolhouse and in time made considerable money druing the Pike’s Peak excitement, but lost a greater portion by bad investments of her financial agent.

“She returned to the Falls and in the early ’70s built her residence. Her last visit to Denver, going by rail, as delegate to a national educational convention and with words sparkling with vitality of youth, shook hands with 10,000 delegates there assembled.”

From the Valley Falls New Era:

“Miss Ring will be missed in nearly all social circles of the city. She was welcomed to every gathering and without her entertainments were incomplete. She was laid to rest in Rose Hill Cemetery. A kind and nobel friend. May she rest in peace.”

The society museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 7. Closing time will be dependent upon the temperature.

Miss Ring: part 6

— by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Sources include Yesteryears and the Valley Falls New Era.
 
“Our school life in Leavenworth (1859-60) was not marked by any event worthy of note,” reported Miss Lydia Maria Ring in her 1878 “Kansas Recollections” column for the Valley Falls New Era.

“Time sped on until march 1860 when the Great Excitement and Gold Fever spread all over the country east and west as well as north and south . . . for the new ElDorado or Pike’s Peak as it was termed.

“It turned the heads of some wise men as well as some foolish women . . . We, too, caught the fever, but not badly. Our object in going was to open a school, hoping that by so doing to secure a few nuggets, so determined to join the Great Rush, and have never regretted doing so . . .

“Our friends opposed us in many ways, but we prepared our outfit, and the 23rd of April 1860 left Leavenworth under the protection, as passenger, with Mr. Orville Stoddard and wife, also a Mr. and Mrs. George.

“Our carriage, a prairie schooner of the largest kind, with an addition to it in the form of juts extending over the wheels some two or more feet, thus giving us sitting room, parlor and kitchen and a pleasant porch on the front.

“There were five other passengers, young men going to try their fortune in the Golden West. They were only bread and butter passengers, their only place for sleeping was on the ground under the wagon or on stoves and commissary stores inside of it when compelled to seek shelter from the rain. They walked the entire distance (700 miles).

“The first night camped only six miles from Leavenworth, leaving there on Monday at 4 p.m.”

The final column of “Kansas Recollections” was printed in the New Era in the May 4, 1878, issue. In three additional columns, May 25, June 28, and June 29 issues, Miss Ring told of the trip across western Kansas and into Colorado.

The columns contained many stories of the country, food, people they met, first sight of Indians, and incidents that occurred as they traveled.

The June 29 column ended, “Tuesday, May 30, 1860. Bright and clear and a morning to be remembered for we saw the Rocky Mountains for the first time and at a distance of more than 100 miles, Pike’s Peak, and its twin brother, rise in majestic grandeur.”

Having left Leavenworth on 23rd of April, 1860, on May 30 they still had several days travel time before they reached their destination. Although Miss Ring’s column of June 29 did not seem to have reached an ending, there were no more of them through the end of 1878.

Details of life in Denver are scarce except for reports from reliable historic resources such as Rock Mountain News and the New Era following her return to Valley Falls and subsequent death in this city.

She was the first school teacher in Denver. Her school was a private one and the first in Denver. It was a one-room wooden shanty with one window and raised on stilts. As business increased, Miss Ring’s schoolhouse became a more popular educational center and she was known as the town tutor.

Miss Ring continued her vocation for 10 years then retired to private life.

Next: Farewell and accolades to Miss Ring and her sister and “that relative.”

The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 31, with closing time dependent on temperatures inside and outside the building.

Miss Ring: part 5

– by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Sources include Yesteryears and the Valley Falls New Era.

“It is said ‘Truth is Stranger Than Fiction’ ” commented Miss Lydia Maria Ring in one of her 1878 columns for the Valley Falls New Era “and we are inclined to believe it true, for in the year (1858), many events showed the truth of this. People now speak of it as ‘the year of the great flood’ and ‘ague and fever’ when referring to the incidents of early pioneer life. This year was also remarkable for its severe storms with the most terrific thunder and vivid lightnings and for their long duration often continuing many hours. . . Never shall we forget the experience of one week, every night of which there was a severe thunderstorm and during each day of the entire week the sun did not show his face. There were many other incidents and events which might be mentioned, but will pass them by and come to the one event in our Kansas experience.   

“On the first of  December we were solicited to open a select school for the accommodation of the children of the village (there being no public school established at that time). But there had been a number of good schools previous to this. We consented to accept the trust and honor bestowed, provided a suitable room or rooms could be obtained.

 “A small house owned by Dr. Northrup was thought to be ‘just the place.’ Very primitive it was, but it had one redeeming quality, a ‘tight roof.’ We took possession, fitted it with primitive benches and desks endeavoring to give it the appearance of a schoolroom as much as possible but with all we could command of fancy taste or art, it was still unlovely and could not be made to look home like. But, we adapted ourself to the situation and entered upon our task with energy and zeal,  and with an earnest desire for the success and advancement of the pupils’ committee to our charge.

“Grading classes was out of the question, not having proper tools. Discipline could be maintained even with such imperfect surroundings, but with greater labor and less good results.”

Miss Ring spent nine months in her school, profitable, she hoped to some of her pupils. She was satisfied that some of those who received their first principles in her school occupied prominent positions in life. She wrote about this time (1859), that Miss Parker came from Maine, erected a schoolhouse and opened another school.

“Soon after, we  resigned in her favor. We had a prior claim upon the pupils, but she had the schoolhouse, so the ‘Yankee School-Marms’ compromised and both well pleased.

 “The first of September 1859, left Grasshopper Falls for Leavenworth and opened a school in pleasant rooms at Seventh and Ottawa streets, was successful in securing pupils, and made an effort to be happy in our new house.”

Next, Miss Ring succumbs to the excitement of Pikes Peak Colorado Gold Fever.

The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open Saturday, July 24, with closing time dependent on indoor and outdoor temperatures.

Miss Ring: part 4

by Betty Jane Wilson, Valley Falls Historical Society President
Information source: Yesteryears and the Valley Falls New Era

“It came upon us ‘like a thing in the night,’ and ‘twas then we enjoyed our first shake! Though we were getting more than our share of the agreeables of Kansas life,” Miss Ring continued to write in her column her 1858 Kansas recollections for the 1878 Valley Falls New Era.

“We would shake for at least three hours, and the remainder of the day, lay unconscious with a burning fever. And this thing continued, with but short intervals, until sometime in November, when the plague disease, the ague, was forced to ‘vacate the premises’ by King Quinine. It was not a pleasant sovereign, for he erected in our brain his wonderful machinery, setting in motion all manner of disagreeable roaring, buzzing, and rasping sounds (and to this day we have not been able to expel from our ears some kind of a humming machine).

“Nearly every family in town were (sic) shaking or had been shaken, and it was incomprehensible to me how people could speak of it with so much levity and indifference. They would exclaim with all the sang-froid imaginable — ‘Oh, it is nothing but the ague, you will be better when you stop shaking, or be quite ‘shut’ of it tomorrow!’ These, or similar remarks would often cause much merriment, but we could not see where the fun came in. We were truly thankful when we could have an interval of rest. One, having had a good lively old-fashioned shake, can appreciate all that can be said of it.

“Well do we recollect at one time in the month of September, when there could not be found enough well persons to care for the sick. All our own family were down with it. Our help succumbed and was taken home, leaving us dependent on our neighbor, a kind good woman,  . . . who became a victim and we were left alone for a day, with no one to give us a glass of water.

“Our sympathy was with the children. Little Willie would come up to our lounge, lay his little golden curly head and pale face by us, saying as plainly as his little chattering teeth would permit, ‘Oh, auntie, I’se sho shick.’ His dear little sister, Ida, was laying beside her mother, both suffering intensely, while the good man of the house, in his room above, was shaking fearfully. His audible breathing was  dreadful to hear, yet we thought perhaps is was right and just for him to suffer a little, for his many jokes and teasing propensities at our expense. We are sure he could not make sport of us for that day at least.
But, as we have said before, all things must have an end, so did the ague.

“We have given very minutely the facts in detail, as they occurred to us and for the reason that we would like to have people coming to this country at the present time, 1878, to just realize and understand the great change twenty years has produced. The hardships and privations then endured, 1858, by energetic and unflinching pioneers, can never be known or experienced by the emigrants now coming to Kansas for homes.”

Next, Miss Ring reviews outstanding events of 1858 and her solicitation to open a select school for the children of the village.

Dodie Bolz and Dee Bayless will be museum hosts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 17.

Miss Ring: part 3

by Betty Jane Wilson, society president. Source: Yesteryears and Valley Falls New Era.

"It is still a mystery or puzzle which we cannot solve, how people coming to a new country endure trials, hardships, sickness and privation, leaving behind them pleasant homes, comforts and sometimes luxuries, can even come to be so seemingly happy and contented in almost any position in which they may be placed in western homes,” wrote Miss Ring continuing her Kansas recollections column for the 1878 Valley Falls New Era.

“We remained at the farm and cabin two weeks after the great inundation or until Peter’s Creek could be crossed in safety. For many days, the only way for men to get to the other side was substituting wash tubs for boats. People were obliged to resort to many expedients and inventions in this new world to accomplish their aims and objects never before heard of in a civilized country.

“One morning, about the last of May, we were informed that all arrangments had been made for our removal to the town of Grasshopper Falls. We are now in the cabin helping in preparation for our removal.

“The wagon (a hay cart or some other kind of vehicle) stands at the door and is soon filled to its utmost capacity. A place on the top of the load was prepared for animate luggage including the women and children, chickens and cat as well as all the breakable articles. The cow walked with dignity by our side, thinking perhaps (as did we) of the change from country to town life.

“She forgot her dignity when he eyes rested upon the fine new grass as she came upon the prairie, and the good race which could be enjoyed in the large open fields before her, and no animal ever ran better or seemingly with greater speed. Our escort ran too, not even thinking of the precious freight he was leaving to the mercy of the young oxen propelling us.

“They too were attracted by the sweet new grass and having no fear or responsibility, commenced doing as they pleased . . . turned off the road, making zig-zag movements until we were in danger of having our wagon upset and endangering our lives.

“We could not move, but screamed quite lustily to them to ‘Gee and Haw’ suppose they could not understand us for they were so intent on securing a good dinner. Our driver, seeing the danger that threatened disaster, ran with almost incredible speed, reaching us just in time to prevent the threatened disaster.

“Trembling with fright, but with hearts full of gratitude to a kind providence for our fortunate escape, we proceeded on our way.

“Soon after getting settled in our new home, there came a great freshet. The grasshopper got on a bender (as some of our jolly young men did sometimes). All of the lower part of the town was entirely inundated. Some people were obliged to move from their houses in the night.

“The old grist and saw mill was under water nearly to the roof. It was many days before the ground could be seen and then it was covered with filth and substances of all kinds.

“This was the last of June 1858. Soon after this , we think in August, the ague and fever became prevalent.”

Next Miss Ring relates the agony of the ague and shakes and the eventual beginning of her teaching career.

Roz Jackson and Betty Jane Wilson will be museum hosts in Valley Falls from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 10.

Miss Ring: part 2

—compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, society president, from the New Era.


Bostonian Miss Lydia Maria Ring, accompanied by her escort (presumably her brother-in-law to whom she referred as “our relative” or “our brother” or even the “tormentor”) as they neared her sister’s home, was assured she would see the falls in all their glory and grandeur.

Miss Ring wrote, “He (the escort) said, ‘You will soon have the pleasure of seeing them and I guess you can hear them roar.’ Upon arriving at the river we were shocked to know that we had to ford so large a stream one half mile in width.

When half across the river (or brook we would have called it at home) the horses came to a sudden halt.

‘Now,’ said he. At the same time stepping up on the wagon seat and striking a tragic attitude. ‘Behold! And admire the wonderful majestic work of our creator.’


Was it himself he was so anxious for us to admire? We came to that conclusion, for he seemed to us as one of the curiosities of the country.

‘There,’ said he, pointing to what appeared a dam with very little water trickling silently over it. ‘Do you not see the falls?’

‘What? That little dam! Are those the grand falls you have been so enthusiastic about? That insignificant little dam?’

‘Don’t be profane or irreverent, Madam.’

We thought how nice and refreshing it will be when we get to our sister’s pleasant, roomy and airy farm house. At last the horses made a sudden halt at what we called a haystack and in the center of it a light that we mistook for a fire and exclaimed, ‘The hay is on fire!’

‘Well,’ said our tormentor, ‘You just get down from there and we will try to put it out.’ ”

Miss Ring had arrived at her sister’s farm house. She described the cabin home.

“It was one very large room with a cooking stove on one side and a large stone fireplace with a flat stone hearth in the other. We came to enjoy all such a country and surroundings could bestow.

The entertainment which caused us the most sincere emotions at the time, was sleeping under a thatched roof! Thought it romantic to look out between chinks in our cabin and count stars and planets and to watch the moon moving in soundless splendor. But such a change one night long to be remembered. The storm and darkness was wondrous strong, but not to us lovely in its strength, for we were awakened from pleasant dreams by water, discolored by smoke and dirt, coming in upon us and the only alternative was to take a milk pan to place under the drippings.

Another little jet made itself felt until six jets and as many pans prepared for them. Even small space was invaded and we called out, ‘What shall I do?’ Then the voice of ‘that man,’ ‘Hold on, guess I must get you an umbrella.’ Which he did.

What was the more vexatious, his laughter resounded through the cabin. . . it was laughable and much more ludicrous to see him dancing about the cabin between jets, but we will insist to this day that it was very ungallant to make himself so merry at our transfixed position.”

Next, the preparation and move to Grasshopper Falls and subsequent adventures

The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 26.

Miss Ring: Boston to Valley Falls

—by Betty Jane Wilson, society president. (Information taken from the Jefferson County Historical Society’s Yesteryears.)


“Those having the experience of teaching in a new country know that the facilities for teaching successfully would seem almost impossible.”

Words of experience form Lydia Maria Ring, first public school teacher of Grasshopper Falls.

Miss Ring, an extremely literate Bostonian, proved herself a true Valley Falls (Grasshopper Falls) pioneer through a series of columns on her life and travels through Kansas that appeared frequently in the Valley Falls New Era, a predecessor to the Vindicator.

Beginning in March 1878, apparently intrigued by glowing tales of the new territory, Miss Ring wrote, “Left Boston ‘Dear Old Hub’ in April 1858 for the fertile soil and saubrius climate of Kansas.”

Although Miss Ring used the journalistic terms “We, ourselves, etc.,” she evidently traveled alone.

She continued, “We were not favorably impressed upon our first arrival. We landed at Leavenworth late at night, during a pouring rain and not a carriage, dray or even a truck was at the wharf to take ourself or baggage to a place of security, so we were obliged to accept the protection of a stranger as an escort to a hotel, which was the old Shawnee House on Shawnee Street.”

Miss Ring had to bang loudly and persistently to arouse the host only to find no rooms available, including the parlor, which was filled with men. The host routed the men grumbling that it was a shame to disturb so many men for “only one woman.”

Two days later her sister Adaline’s husband, W.C. Hicks, arrived to take her to her new home. Relating the trip, Miss Ring wrote, “The trip to Grasshopper Falls was made in a large lumber wagon. It seemed immense, but it required immense vehicles and immense horses to get through such immense mud! Suppose we should say ‘rich soil.’ We were convinced of newspaper accounts of richness and depth of soil when our wagon wheels were immersed nearly to the hub and the horses knee deep in rich black mud — No! Soil!”

According to Miss Ring, “There were many ludicrous mishaps, jests and not a little merriment at our ignorance as well as readiness to believe the many false representations and glowing descriptions of what we would see and enjoy after a long hard day’s ride. We arrived upon the brow of  a hill where we took our first view of Grasshopper Falls. [We] had been told it was a large and flourishing place; and when we said, ‘Do you call that a big town?’ with much gravity, our relative exclaimed, ‘Oh, that is only the suburb you see. It will soon be dark and you will probably not see the town tonight.’

“We then asked, ‘Shall we not see the falls either?’ Answer, ‘Oh, yes, we are not far from them. Do you not hear  them  roar?’ Meekly, we said, ‘No.’ ”

Part II tells of fording the stream and the revelation of grandeur and roar of falls, town of Grasshopper Falls, and sister’s farm house.

Valley Falls in 1860

— Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
  
The 1960 Valley Falls Senior Class of graduates represented a century of progress in the city and Jefferson County schools.

In 1860, Jefferson County reported 20 school districts. Five of them were in Grasshopper Township (later Delaware Township, city of Valley Falls).

It was not until 1886 that the first  high school class was graduated. It consisted of four girls — Maud Myers, Cora Cowen, Elizabeth Fox, and Nelia Hayward.

Almost six-years-old in June 1860, the Grasshopper Falls Gazette lauded the village improvements with the following:

“It is cheering to the heart of everyone identified with the interests of our section of the county, to note the enterprise which is this season being manifested in the line of buildings, fencing, painting, and beautifying of our streets and public grounds.

“Already Grasshopper Falls has an actual population of 400 to 500 persons . . . the present season has brought amongst us many more families, who are stowed away two, three and four in every house. Dwellings are rapidly going up, and many are now making arrangements to build the coming summer and fall. Three residences have been completed within the past three weeks, and eight more are at present in process of erection.

“The only church in Jefferson County looms up upon our town site, and the tones of its bell vibrate through space that has not resounded no other chime than this.

“Our large merchants’ flouring mill — our hotel arrivals are constantly increasing  — our merchants are enlarging their storehouses and stocks of merchandise — our schools are constantly augmenting in numbers, and the only free bridge on Grasshopper River will be completed this summer at this place at a cost of five thousand dollars.

“These are facts which must be cheering to every faint heart and tell of the brilliant destiny before us . . .”
 — an added half century begets borrowing the popular phrase, “You’ve Come a Long Way Baby.”

Daleen Senn and Mary Maxfield will be museum hosts Saturday, May 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

Grasshopper Falls in April and May 1874

—Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, VFHS president.

The life and times of Grasshopper Falls 20 years after being founded Dec. 25, 1854, the Kansas New Era reports from 1874:

A few items featured in the April and May editions in the language of the editor and assistants included the weather, always a contender for top billing:

“Last Friday morning at 5 o’clock, not a cloud was to be seen. The stars shone with their usual brillancy; but by half past five, the sky was overspread with heavy clouds and the snow was coming down at a fearful rate; at half past seven, it ceased snowing and we measured the depth and found it to be four inches.

“We put up Kansas against the world for doing things in a hurry. During the forepart of the week, we had a man making garden for us, planting potatoes, onions, peas, and all such little things. We would received it as a favor if some scientific gardener would let us know whether such falls are beneficial to newly made gardens.”

“Pete, the irrepressible barber who has been engaged all winter in mowing beards in the Broadway Barber Shop has left us. Our loss is a gain of two for Winchester.”

“The ranks of marriageble young men of our city are being fast depleted by the winsome lasses who capture and bind them in the bonds of matrimony when they will.”

“Our streets are daily lined with the white-sheeted wagons of the immigrants seeking a home in Kansas.”

“The days for picnicing and boat riding, etc., have arrived and Henry Coy, in order to have as much enjoyment as anyone, has had a very fine boat built that will glide over the placid waters of the Grasshopper and carry safely a dozen persons.”

“Take notice: All hogs found running at large on and after 2nd day of May, 1874, will be taken up by the marshal, J.R. Best, City Clerk.”

“Kind and patient reader, we are about to unfold a tale — a narrative  a statement — a history of personal wrongs which we have endured and suffered until we were compelled to arise and explain. On last Sunday night, one of our brightest Sunday school scholars put on the seat in church where we were about to sit and attentively listen to words of gospel truth (and the tale is of the same) a pin, bent in such a fashion as only a good little boy knows how to bend one, and we sat down on it. Ordinarily we have perfect control of our feelings, but on this occasion, we gave vent to an expression which we sincerely hope is not recorded against us and then occupied another seat. Sunday school books tell us good boys die young. This is our only consolation and we patiently await the fulfillment of the prophecy.”

Frank and Edie Shrimplin will be hosts at the museum from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 8.

Grasshopper Falls in January and February 1874

—Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, society president.

The 1874 weekly issues of the Kansas New Era (predecessor of the Vindicator) provides historical insight for life and times of the town nearly 20 years following the staking claim for Grasshopper Falls by explorers Frazier, Riddle, Whitney, and Jolley.

The January and February editions featured the following items in journalism language of the era:

Nine cars were loaded with ice for Leavenworth last Saturday. Dudgeon has sold all his coal and is now filling his coal sheds with ice. The big rain storm last week frightened our ice dealers and they thought the ice market was over. Sawter and Mitchell had a large force of men and teams at work and filled their house while the rain was pouring torrents.

There are three hotels in the city, the Cataract, Broadway, and Burrell. They are all well kept and we understand doing well.

There are four milliner and dressmaking establishments in the place, Mrs. Hays, Mrs. McCartney, Mrs. Bounds and Mrs. Martin, all of whom seem to be doing well.

There are two printing offices, the Grasshopper and the New Era, both getting along as we understand from the publishers. Mr. Ground Hog did not more than see his shadow on last Tuesday.

The subject of changing the town’s name is again agitated. Dr. Northrup suggests “Kansas Falls” and old “Fifty Fiver” suggests “Cedar Falls” or “Falls City.” We should not object to either as they are short and appropriate. Someone suggests the place retain its present name because of its distinctiveness. We favor the change on account of the names suggested being short, while Grasshopper Falls stretches nearly across a sheet of note paper.

The method of closing saloons recently inaugurated in Ohio is fast spreading all over the country. They are about to try it in Leavenworth and we presume Grasshopper Falls will be next.

The way it is done is as follows:

The Christian ladies of the town form themselves into praying bands and hold prayer meetings in the barroom, if allowed to do so, and if not, on the sidewalk outside. One band relieves another and the meeting is kept up until the saloon keeper is converted or his business ruined.

F.A. Dudgeon was circulating a petition last week, the object of which was to have the name of the place changed to Kansas Falls. Somebody in this place received a consignment of sauer kraut last week, and lovers of fermented cabbage were nearly frantic with delight over the reappearance of their nearly forgotten delicacy. One person procured a large pailful, posted himself on the sidewalk on Broadway, and in the fullness of his heart offered a handful of the racid succulent to every passerby.

Businesses in 1929, part 2

Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

Part II

The stroll down Broadway in 1929 listing shops and merchants serving the community, their location and address from street number 216 through 404 continues from last week:
405: Wettig Hotel, barber shop, Joe Hill, prop.; Russel Merlin, barber, and Rylan Jackson, shiner.
406: 1-story frame, vacant
407: Valley Falls Confectionery, Leonard A. Waite, prop.
408: VF shoe shop, Franklin McKenna, prop.
409: Hatfield Penslar Store, L.A. Hatfield, prop.
409: Star Grocery, C.V. Coalson, prop.
410: 1-story brick, vacant
411: Pat’s Cafe, A.P. Davies, prop.
412-416: Summerfelt Hardware, E. Summerfelt Jr., Prop.
413: Leland and Leland (J.B. & R.M.) tailors and cleaners.
415: Valley Falls Jewelry Store, Mrs. O.F. Falls, prop.
417: Shaffer’s Cigar Store, F.C. Shaffer, prop.
418: McDaniels Pool Hall and Lunch Room, W.A. McDaniels, prop.
419: Lott’s Variety Store
420: Good Eats Market, Roy H. Reichart, prop.
420: H.H. Davies, Dentist (2-story building)
 421: D.B. Grocery, Mrs. Inez Boyer, prop. (Chamber of Commerce meeting first and third Friday at 421 Broadway)
422: Post office, O.F. Falls, postmaster.
423: Kenyon Dry Goods, W.H. Kenton, prop.
425: Dr. F.P. Mann, physician.
500: Marland Oil Refining Co. Service Station, R.E. Cook, station agent
501-503: Thompson Clothing Co., W.I. Thompson, prop.
505: 1-story brick, vacant
507: Kirshbraum Cream Station, John Stafford, agent
508-510: Armstong, J.F., Oil Station. J.F. Armstrong, prop.
511: Conerus Shoe Shop, A.H. Conerus, prop.
512-516: Blake’s Garage, Frank Blake, prop.
513: Newman’s Blacksmith Shop, V.P. Newman, prop.

Stores and shops stayed open late to accommodate customers.

The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 3. Hosts will be Maxine Hefty and Betty Jane Wilson. Admission is free.

Businesses in 1929

Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

Who was here 80 years ago...........

Saturday night live (the terminology, not the television show) suggests former years at Valley Falls (memories for some) reminiscent tales related by elders to younger generations for others.

Saturday night, the end of the week’s occupation, when farmers, laborers, and citizens “went to town” for shopping, bartering, gossiping, hair cuts, entertainment and genuine fellowship.

According to the township directory for 1929, Valley Falls Broadway Street was occupied by a host of stores, shops and merchants serving the community.

Those services and locations included these Broadway addresses:
216-218 Lambert Lumber Co.
300 E.E. McComas, Produce
301-303 Murray-Heer Ford dealer
302 Shuler’s Furniture
304 Shuler Floral
305 Davis Sisters Millinery and Bert Booth Real Estate & Insurance
306-308 Hauck’s Department Store
307 Broadway Cafe, “Dad” Thompson, Prop.
309 E.R. Hosler, Chiropractor
310 Gillispie Hardware and Sam Strawn, Atty., Ins. & Real Estate, 2nd floor (310 is now the historical society’s museum).
311 Norris and Lewis Barber Shop
312 First National Bank
313 Hudson & Burkert Auto Repair and Chrysler Agency
314 Mitchell’s Meat Market
315 Scott’s Billiard Parlor
316 North Side Barbershop, E.V. Goodwin and Ham Green, barbers
317 Huber’s Cigar Store & Factory
318 City Bakery, A.N. (Nick) Gahm, Prop.
319-321 Knier & Knowles Harness Makers
320 City Cafe, Mr. and Mrs. Walter McDaniel, prop.
322 Wettig Clothing Store
323 Kendall State Bank
324 Corner Drug Store, Gilbert W. Morell, prop.; Author Braden, dentist
400 Citizens State Bank
401 Wettig Hotel
402 Wilson poultry and Dr. W.A. Roberts, Chiropractor (2 stories)
403 Kansas Power & Light Co.
404 Otwell’s Jewelry & Radio Store, Harry Otwell, prop.
    (To be continued)

The Valley Falls museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 27. Admission is free. Guided tours available.

Balloons - tragic, comedic, newsworthy

— Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, Valley Falls Historical Society president

Men and boys and their balloon escapades, regardless of century or outcome, tragic, adventurous, utilitarian, or comedic, have proved newsworthy.

“Eighty Days Around the World,”  the incredible tragic dirigible, the priceless weather balloon, and even the account of the hapless youngster exploited by an allegedly publicity seeking father claiming his son was aboard an unmanned balloon,  won their share of headlines.

Not all balloon events gained notoriety. The Valley Falls New Era, Aug. 31, 1905, carried a rave review of a recent “Glorious Carnival — The Best Ever — The Attractions of a Higher Order”— then added matter of factly that just as the balloon man was about to make his ascension, a boy about 14 years of age tried to jump across the attached balloon ropes. The boy’s feet became entangled in the ropes, already loosened for ascension and he was dragged into the air. The alert balloonist quickly cut the ropes freeing the boy and the balloons averting a tragic balloon accident.

Devoid of publicity and fanfare, an heroic, nameless carnival performer and a lucky, nameless teenager, and the incident are imbedded in the annals of Valley Falls balloon history.

The Valley Falls Historical Society museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 20,  Admission is free.

In 1907 "a great snow storm" visits the area

compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, historical society president
History, a compilation of events graced with repetitions, similarities and parallels plays few favorites; However, weather maintains high priority throughout the annals. The March 22, 1907, Farmer’s Vindicator chose to feature that same March week in 1876 when “a great snow storm visited this country” (our vicinity. The drifting, blinding, furious kind. The whole state was snow bound. The railroads were blocked for a week. With snow plows and hand shovels, the tracks were opened for trains for one day when another big snow fall suspended traffic for several days more.” (sound familiar?)

"People traveled from house to house over stake and rider fences and tree tops hidden in deep drifts. It was a trying time." In contrast, the temperature for that specific time, 1907, had risen to 80 degrees. Apparently, the spring-like degrees did not last, the May 10, 1907, newspaper reported “It snowed in May! It came for breakfast last Friday morning, May 3. The oldest, local inhabitant never saw the like in May with so much snow and temperatures 23 degrees above zero at Blue Mound weather station.

“The May freeze continued through May 17 with ice an eighth of an inch thick. Considering weather’s repetitive history, the poetics may dream with trepidations “When winter comes, spring can not be far behind.”

The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open  from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 6. Admission is free.

"Everything had blood in it's eye...."

by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

Bad day at Black Rock, blue Monday, alarm clock failure, flat tire, bad hair day, etc. Apparently “one of those days” can happen any time, any place, any century.

G.A. Huron, editor of the Kansas New Era, predecessor of the Vindicator, cited the following events one Thursday in February 1876:

“As we came down the street in the morning everything had blood in its eye. First, our “devil” printer wanted a leave of absence to attend a wedding. Recognizing the fact that his majesty always manifested an interest in such things, the request was granted.

“We said everything had blood in it’s eye, that was the matter. There was not a man in town that did not act as if his opinion was worth more than that of all the world . . .

“Dr. Gephart had started armed and equipped as the law directs to capture the handsomest young lady in Jackson County, it was discovered that he had left the very necessary requisite, the marriage license at home and ‘Caspar’ ever ready to do a kindness, was dispatched post hast with the missing paper.

“Meritt McDole went into the Michigan Lumber Yard to load his wagon when, at the rattle of a board, his team started to jump, the wagon was distributed over town but was gathered up, taken to the shop and mended. Returning to the lumber yard the same trick was played again and this time the horses dragged their driver several yards before getting loose and when under good headway turned to suddenly that the hind wheels broke loose and sent jumping like a rabbit into Dr. Northrup’s handsome fence.

“Rev. Gill was in the way of the wheels and though he makes no claim to agility, it would have excited the envy of the most experience acrobat to have seen the ease with which he dodged the issue.

“A gentleman from Tippinville persusaded himself he needed just one more glass of lager, so he left his team in the street while he went to interview Stevins, but that buck in the beer or something else startled the team. Prunes, sugar, coffee, etc. were scattered and sifted for two squares, and by the time the wagon gets fitted up with three new springs and other repairs, that glass of lager will prove rather expensive. For a wonder nobody was hurt, and if another town in the state can show a livelier record for the day, we want to see it.”

The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be closed Saturday.

Museum celebrates Kansas Day with diplays

by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

Adopted in May 1861 by the Kansas Legislature — the Great Seal of Kansas. A colorful replica of the official seal of the state dominates the January window display of the Valley Falls Historical Society Museum.

“Ad Astra Per Aspera,” translated “To the Stars Through Difficulty” is the state slogan. The seal features a half circle and a prairie landscape design with a settler’s cabin a river with steamboat, and buffalo pursued by Indian hunters. Thousands of American Buffalo roamed the Kansas prairies during the state’s Territorial Days. The animal was designated the official animal of Kansas in 1955. A painting of a Western Meadowlark overlooks the Kansas scene. The bird won the distinction of official state bird in 1937. The cottonwood tree gained fame as official state tree the same year. “Home on the Range” was selected as the state song by the 1947 Legislature.

A scattering of history books, maps, and travel brochures surrounded by the box turtle, a reptile, and honey bee have been added to the window scene. The last three were later designated official state wildlife. Travel pamphlets document the history and versatility of the state. Bunches of sunflowers, the native wildflower designated official state flower in 1903, serve as reminders that known worldwide as the Sunflower State, Kansas was admitted to the union as the 34th state Jan. 29, 1861. Happy Birthday, Kansas!

Sharing birthday remembrances, the Veterans’ window features a portrait of the late Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. centered among American and service organization flags, followed by the words, “I Have a Dream” immortalized by the renowned activist and civil rights leader.

The historical society museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, weather permitting. Call 785-945-3576, Betty Jane Wilson, for group or individual tour information.

1929 Delaware Township directory

by Betty Jane Wilson, society president

The 1929 directory and land list of Delaware Township, property of the Valley Falls Historical Society, is a veritable history and geneology of the city for that year.

The directory gives the name, address and phone number of practically every man, woman and child in the township and of those who live in the country.

The listing of businesses and services are historically priceless with names and streets appropriately cross referenced.

An example: 310 Broadway (now the VFHS museum address) 2 story stone, C.B. Gillispie prop., Maurice Coleman, clerk. Strawn, Samuel M., attorney, insurance, real estate. (ed. note: Samuel Strawn, great uncle of the late Arthur Strawn, historian, occupied the southeast second floor room of the society museum.

Streets are defined and located and named in order from the north side of town. Road addresses are given those living in the country according to a new road plan featured in the directory.

Included in the directory is a list of schools by district number, name, board members and teachers. The 116-page directory is a complete township history.

Call 945-3576 for information on museum hours and tours.

Society's logo tells a story

The Valley Falls Historical Society was incorporated Jan. 10, 1968, as a nonprofit educational institution.

On that date the articles of incorporation were received, signed and filed by the Secretary of State. The corporation is chartered for a term of 100 years.

The seal of the historical society is an adaptation of the seal of the Kansas territory. The grasshopper on the shield commemoriates the original name of Valley Falls (Grasshopper Falls on the Grasshopper River in Grasshopper Township) and also denotes the great grasshopper plague which devastated the community.

The lower portion of the shield contains a representation of the old mill and the falls on the river, the reason for the town being established. The tree is the old white maple that stood on the west side of the river just east of the old “wagon bridge.”

The tree to which, tradition tells us, Isaac Cody was tied and beaten by proslavery men.

The male and female figures looking in opposite directions represent the past and the future. The female, who is Ceres, Goddess of Agriculture, looks into the past with head held high in pride of what has been. The male figure in homespun and buckskin, looks toward the future with an alert and determined countenance. relaxed, but his gun in his hand if needed.

The log and ax are symbolic of the crude beginning with log cabin and equipment hewed from the cottonwood, walnut, and sycamore, which grew along the streams and up the draws. Elsewhere the native priairie grass stretched to the horizon. (From the Valley Falls Vindicator, Jan. 25, 1968.)

The society’s museum will be closed Saturday, Jan. 9, due to weather conditions. For information on tours, call Betty Jane Wilson, society president, at 945-3576.