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.
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