Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
Spotlighting the Kansas New Era in March 1875 contrasting the six-year growth in the restless 1880's.
New Era, March 20, 1875 —
"Brix? says that ladies who wear bustles should fasten the thing down and not meander the streets with a large bundle bobbing and wiggling from side to side behind. It looks ridiculous and besides with so many beads, bugles, and flumaguggies on it, it is apt to make a person walking in the rear crosseyed."
March 27, 1875 —
"The latest style for young men — small cane, light mustache, and part the hair in the middle. It is now in vogue in Valley Falls."
April 3, 1875 —
"When a young and handsome girl crops her front hair and pulls it down over her forehead, resembling a Mexican Mustang, then ties a piece of red velvet around her neck, who can wonder at a young man, looking pale in the face, throwing away his ambition and passing sleepless nights, is parting his hair in the middle and trying to raise down (hair) on his upper lip."
The New Era, April 10, 1875 —
"CHANGE OF NAME. AN ACT to change the name of Grasshopper Falls River, Grasshopper Falls Township, and Grasshopper City, in Jefferson County, Kansas. Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Kansas: Section 1. That the river running through Jefferson County, known as Grasshopper River, be changed to that of Delaware River; and that the township known as Grasshopper, in Jefferson County, be changed to Delaware Township; and that the city known as Grasshopper Falls City be changed to that of Valley Falls. Sec. 2. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after its publication in the Statute Book. Approved February 27, 1875. I, Thos. H. Cavanaugh, secretary of state of the state of Kansas, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the original enrolled bill on file in my office. In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affix the great seal of state. Done at Topeka, this 24th day of March, A. D. 1875. THOS. H. CAVANAUGH, Secretary of State."
March 30, 2016
March 09, 2016
A. L. "Abe" Forsythe, soldier and grocer
by Betty Jane Wilson, President Valley Falls Historical Society
The 1881 Valley Falls New Era publication of June 4 and 11 reported that A.L. Forsythe (Abe), who was living in Valley Falls at that time, had purchased interest in a grocery store, painted it inside and out, planning to "run the whole 'shebang' himself," remaining in the same location while his neighbors were busy exchanging businesses and residences.
The same news source also reported notice of one of the citizens of Valley Falls in the New York "Scotsman" (A.L. Forsythe) and his eventful life. Brief episodes follow:
"Mr. Forsythe was born in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., in 1814, but not withstanding the fact, we (the Scotsman) claim him as a full-blooded Scotchman, his father being a native of Edinburgh and a soldier, his son comes honestly by his fighting and other praiseworthy qualities.
"Prior to his arrival in Valley Falls as a very young man he enlisted in Edinburgh in the 85th Regiment of Infantry and soon sailed with the Corps to Canada. At his request, he transferred to the 93rd Highlanders in Canada where he served more than three years during minor insurgents. He purchased his discharge from the Regiment, departed for the U.S., remaining until the commencement of the Mexican War, where he served under General Scott's Army from Texas to the Halls of Montezuma for two years and eight months, after which he pursued more peaceful occupations until 1861 at the commencement of the Great Rebellion.
"Living in Neenah, Wisc., at the time, and nearing 50 years of age, he enlisted in Co. K, 11th Regiment Wisconsin Volunteers and served with it throughout the war as a non-commissioned officer principal in Mississippi, Arkansas, and Tennessee, twice wounded at Port Gibson and the Battle of Jackson. He was at the siege of Vicksburg and while on that stronghold in 1863, on March 7 he was presented a unique pipe by Gen. U.S. Grant, which Forsythe smoked with pride. It was a small china pipe on which two union flags were painted with appropriate patriotic mottos.
"Forsythe served with General Grant during the Mexican War and throughout the Civil War," the Scotsman concluded.
"We have only to add that Mr. Forsythe lives in peace and contentment at Valley Falls and in these piping times enjoys himself — and draws regularly a pension for services and wounds in the last Great War."
The Valley Falls Historical Society will open at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 12.
The 1881 Valley Falls New Era publication of June 4 and 11 reported that A.L. Forsythe (Abe), who was living in Valley Falls at that time, had purchased interest in a grocery store, painted it inside and out, planning to "run the whole 'shebang' himself," remaining in the same location while his neighbors were busy exchanging businesses and residences.
The same news source also reported notice of one of the citizens of Valley Falls in the New York "Scotsman" (A.L. Forsythe) and his eventful life. Brief episodes follow:
"Mr. Forsythe was born in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., in 1814, but not withstanding the fact, we (the Scotsman) claim him as a full-blooded Scotchman, his father being a native of Edinburgh and a soldier, his son comes honestly by his fighting and other praiseworthy qualities.
"Prior to his arrival in Valley Falls as a very young man he enlisted in Edinburgh in the 85th Regiment of Infantry and soon sailed with the Corps to Canada. At his request, he transferred to the 93rd Highlanders in Canada where he served more than three years during minor insurgents. He purchased his discharge from the Regiment, departed for the U.S., remaining until the commencement of the Mexican War, where he served under General Scott's Army from Texas to the Halls of Montezuma for two years and eight months, after which he pursued more peaceful occupations until 1861 at the commencement of the Great Rebellion.
"Living in Neenah, Wisc., at the time, and nearing 50 years of age, he enlisted in Co. K, 11th Regiment Wisconsin Volunteers and served with it throughout the war as a non-commissioned officer principal in Mississippi, Arkansas, and Tennessee, twice wounded at Port Gibson and the Battle of Jackson. He was at the siege of Vicksburg and while on that stronghold in 1863, on March 7 he was presented a unique pipe by Gen. U.S. Grant, which Forsythe smoked with pride. It was a small china pipe on which two union flags were painted with appropriate patriotic mottos.
"Forsythe served with General Grant during the Mexican War and throughout the Civil War," the Scotsman concluded.
"We have only to add that Mr. Forsythe lives in peace and contentment at Valley Falls and in these piping times enjoys himself — and draws regularly a pension for services and wounds in the last Great War."
The Valley Falls Historical Society will open at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 12.
March 03, 2016
1881: Seems like everyone's moving - part 4
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
(Part IV)
The prevailing changes continue:
Nov. 5 — "The thanks of the members of the Methodist Church and congregation are due Mrs. H.A. Coy and Mrs. Eli Evans for the donation of a nice set of curtains to replace the old and shabby ones that have so long disfigured the interior walls of the church. Also, to Mrs. Ed Farrar, Mrs. Moyer, and Mrs. Mark Hefty for cleaning the church.
Nov. 19 — "The agency of Wells Fargo & Co.'s Express and the Pacific Express, formerly at the Depot, has been removed to Pancost's Feed Store, one door east of Kendall's store. Signed. A. Sealed, Ac. W. Pancost, deliveryman."
Nov. 26 — "Mr. Patrick just received notice that the Valley Falls Post Office has been raised to an office of the third class, and his salary fixed at $1,100 besides box rents. The increase to date from Jan. 1st.
"Mr. John Quackenbush has bought out Mr. Roger's interest in the meat market and the new firm will be known as Watkins and Quackenbush."
Dec. 3 — "C.F. Bliss & Co. have sold their lumber yard and leased the ground and buildings to J.E. Glass of Henry Barker & Co. of Atchison.
"I. Friend, operator of a general store in Valley Falls for seven years, will close out his stock by Jan. 1."
Dec. 10 — "New Store, New Goods, and Lowest Prices. J.H. Murray Dry Goods.
"J.E. Glass & Co. Fairly Installed at Old Bliss Lumber Yard.
"New Feed Mill. M.G. Hayward put a new feed mill into Piazzek's Elevator and is prepared to furnish all kinds of grain and corn meal at lowest prices.
"C.F. Bliss & Co. purchased from Wm. Crosby a lot on Broadway 45x100 ft., including the building used by the Grange Store and Fuller's Harness Shop. Consideration $1,350.
"TIME FOR A CHANGE? We have been informed (New Era) that the outhouses at the school are in a very filthy condition. We believe a janitor is paid for looking after such matters, and if so, we suggest that he be required to attend to his business. If no one is employed, someone should be engaged at once."
Dec. 17 — "J.C. Fuller has sold his harness shop to D.F. Bliss & Co.
"Albert Beland has resigned as agent of the Adams Express and Charles Osgood has taken the office to Legler's Store.
"George Kuran has resigned at the Post Office."
Dec. 24 — "The Kuran family has moved to Monrovia and we understand Geo. has gone to work in Topeka."
Dec. 31 — "The Union Pacific Railroad has secured control of the Kansas Central and assumes management on the first of next month."
The 'Tin Roof Caper' of 1881 tempted a peek at the first month of 1882 to determine if similar actions will be slated for another 12 months.— Betty Jane Wilson
Jan. 7 — "Mrs. Fisher moved back into her house on Walnut Street.
"Mr. C.R. McDowell took charge of the Grange Store last Monday.
"J.E. Glass & Co. have put up a new shed for lumber in their yard. Bliss & Co. are fixing up the Ready Building and will use it for storage of implements.
"The old Lewis Barbershop building has been moved to the lot next to Mr. Baldwin's house and will be used for a residence.
"Watkins and Quackenbush have repainted and fixed up their meat market.
"The building formerly occupied by Mrs. Bounds Millinery Shop has been painted and repaired by Mr. C.B. Cawthron for his jewelry store.
"The Wagner billiard tables have been moved over to Mel Legler's Store and the room and tables leased to W. L. White, who is running a first-class billiard saloon."
Jan. 14 — "L.D. Woodbury has moved his carpenter shop into the old Volker Building, formerly occupied by the New Era office."
Jan. 21 — "Mr. McGinnis has reopened his tailoring establishment in his old building opposite the New Era office.
"Mr. I. Friend sold a half-interest in his stores to his son, Ed Friend.
"Etc., Etc., Etc."
The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open at 10 a.m. March 5.
(Part IV)
The prevailing changes continue:
Nov. 5 — "The thanks of the members of the Methodist Church and congregation are due Mrs. H.A. Coy and Mrs. Eli Evans for the donation of a nice set of curtains to replace the old and shabby ones that have so long disfigured the interior walls of the church. Also, to Mrs. Ed Farrar, Mrs. Moyer, and Mrs. Mark Hefty for cleaning the church.
Nov. 19 — "The agency of Wells Fargo & Co.'s Express and the Pacific Express, formerly at the Depot, has been removed to Pancost's Feed Store, one door east of Kendall's store. Signed. A. Sealed, Ac. W. Pancost, deliveryman."
Nov. 26 — "Mr. Patrick just received notice that the Valley Falls Post Office has been raised to an office of the third class, and his salary fixed at $1,100 besides box rents. The increase to date from Jan. 1st.
"Mr. John Quackenbush has bought out Mr. Roger's interest in the meat market and the new firm will be known as Watkins and Quackenbush."
Dec. 3 — "C.F. Bliss & Co. have sold their lumber yard and leased the ground and buildings to J.E. Glass of Henry Barker & Co. of Atchison.
"I. Friend, operator of a general store in Valley Falls for seven years, will close out his stock by Jan. 1."
Dec. 10 — "New Store, New Goods, and Lowest Prices. J.H. Murray Dry Goods.
"J.E. Glass & Co. Fairly Installed at Old Bliss Lumber Yard.
"New Feed Mill. M.G. Hayward put a new feed mill into Piazzek's Elevator and is prepared to furnish all kinds of grain and corn meal at lowest prices.
"C.F. Bliss & Co. purchased from Wm. Crosby a lot on Broadway 45x100 ft., including the building used by the Grange Store and Fuller's Harness Shop. Consideration $1,350.
"TIME FOR A CHANGE? We have been informed (New Era) that the outhouses at the school are in a very filthy condition. We believe a janitor is paid for looking after such matters, and if so, we suggest that he be required to attend to his business. If no one is employed, someone should be engaged at once."
Dec. 17 — "J.C. Fuller has sold his harness shop to D.F. Bliss & Co.
"Albert Beland has resigned as agent of the Adams Express and Charles Osgood has taken the office to Legler's Store.
"George Kuran has resigned at the Post Office."
Dec. 24 — "The Kuran family has moved to Monrovia and we understand Geo. has gone to work in Topeka."
Dec. 31 — "The Union Pacific Railroad has secured control of the Kansas Central and assumes management on the first of next month."
The 'Tin Roof Caper' of 1881 tempted a peek at the first month of 1882 to determine if similar actions will be slated for another 12 months.— Betty Jane Wilson
Jan. 7 — "Mrs. Fisher moved back into her house on Walnut Street.
"Mr. C.R. McDowell took charge of the Grange Store last Monday.
"J.E. Glass & Co. have put up a new shed for lumber in their yard. Bliss & Co. are fixing up the Ready Building and will use it for storage of implements.
"The old Lewis Barbershop building has been moved to the lot next to Mr. Baldwin's house and will be used for a residence.
"Watkins and Quackenbush have repainted and fixed up their meat market.
"The building formerly occupied by Mrs. Bounds Millinery Shop has been painted and repaired by Mr. C.B. Cawthron for his jewelry store.
"The Wagner billiard tables have been moved over to Mel Legler's Store and the room and tables leased to W. L. White, who is running a first-class billiard saloon."
Jan. 14 — "L.D. Woodbury has moved his carpenter shop into the old Volker Building, formerly occupied by the New Era office."
Jan. 21 — "Mr. McGinnis has reopened his tailoring establishment in his old building opposite the New Era office.
"Mr. I. Friend sold a half-interest in his stores to his son, Ed Friend.
"Etc., Etc., Etc."
The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open at 10 a.m. March 5.
March 02, 2016
1881: Ticket #557 won the house; and, seems like everyone's moving - part 3
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
(Part III)
July 9 — (cont.) "Turner Hall Turners will now hold their meetings in Mr. Hilty's new building on Broadway where they have fine accommodations.
"Albert Beland has taken the agency of Adams Express Co. The office is now at Best and Beland's Drug Store."
July 23 — "W. Hunt, physican and surgeon's office, is over Hicks and Gephart Bank.
"Mell Legler has received brick for the front of his new store.
"Mrs. Strickland was forced to take back her stock of goods sold to Mrs. Webb. That lady has gone to Lawrence. Snyder has moved his restaurant into the building vacated by Mrs. Strickland.
"D. Sanford moved his furniture store into the McGinnis Building, east side of Sycamore Street.
"Fuller, the Buck Eye harness man suddenly stopped business last Thursday. He sold his business to Bliss & Co.
"NOTICE! Valley Falls, Kan., Aug. 1, 1881, ticket No. 557 won the brick house and lot at the drawing today, as advertised before."
Aug. 13 — "Mrs. E.B. Strickland started last Thursday for Salt Lake City, where she will hereafter reside."
Aug. 27 — "The brick work on Legler and Lewis' building is finished and it is expected Mel and George will move in some time next month."
Sept. 3 — "Charley Bliss has bought the Loveland property on Sycamore Street of Dr Gillman.
"Maj. Conser has rented the Wagner billard tables and moved them into the building north of the Valley Bank.
"The room in Hillyer's new block, next to Doolittle & Co.'s Hardware Store has been rented for a new dry goods store.
"Mayor Hicks is putting up a fine dwelling house near the corner of Elm and Mary streets for tenement purposes.
"Mel Legler this week sold his grocery business to Messrs. Adams and Thompson, Adams & Thompson, Groceries and Provisions, Post Office Building."
Oct. 8 — "A.G. Patrick has bought out Adams & Thompson and will continue the business at the old stand. The Post Office will remain where it is for some time to come. Patrick will take possession of the grocery business in about two weeks.
"Mr. Murray will open his dry goods at Ready's old stand."
Oct. 15 — "Mel Legler and Geo. Lewis have put down a fine sidewalk in front of their new building.
"Mrs. E. B. Strickland and family arrived here from Salt Lake City last Friday and will live in the John Ratz house."
Oct. 22 — "W.J. Wetherholt and John Cowan will clerk for Patrick in the Post Office Grocery. (Note, Patrick is going back in the grocery business). Patrick has about completed his new dwelling and is moving into it this week.
"L.D. Woodbury has sold his fine residence on Broadway to Mr. McCully for $1,000."
Nov. 5 — "Mel Legler has just opened a brand new stock of groceries and etc. at his new building. (Note, his advertisement is headed 'Here We Come Again!') "
(Part III)
July 9 — (cont.) "Turner Hall Turners will now hold their meetings in Mr. Hilty's new building on Broadway where they have fine accommodations.
"Albert Beland has taken the agency of Adams Express Co. The office is now at Best and Beland's Drug Store."
July 23 — "W. Hunt, physican and surgeon's office, is over Hicks and Gephart Bank.
"Mell Legler has received brick for the front of his new store.
"Mrs. Strickland was forced to take back her stock of goods sold to Mrs. Webb. That lady has gone to Lawrence. Snyder has moved his restaurant into the building vacated by Mrs. Strickland.
"D. Sanford moved his furniture store into the McGinnis Building, east side of Sycamore Street.
"Fuller, the Buck Eye harness man suddenly stopped business last Thursday. He sold his business to Bliss & Co.
"NOTICE! Valley Falls, Kan., Aug. 1, 1881, ticket No. 557 won the brick house and lot at the drawing today, as advertised before."
Aug. 13 — "Mrs. E.B. Strickland started last Thursday for Salt Lake City, where she will hereafter reside."
Aug. 27 — "The brick work on Legler and Lewis' building is finished and it is expected Mel and George will move in some time next month."
Sept. 3 — "Charley Bliss has bought the Loveland property on Sycamore Street of Dr Gillman.
"Maj. Conser has rented the Wagner billard tables and moved them into the building north of the Valley Bank.
"The room in Hillyer's new block, next to Doolittle & Co.'s Hardware Store has been rented for a new dry goods store.
"Mayor Hicks is putting up a fine dwelling house near the corner of Elm and Mary streets for tenement purposes.
"Mel Legler this week sold his grocery business to Messrs. Adams and Thompson, Adams & Thompson, Groceries and Provisions, Post Office Building."
Oct. 8 — "A.G. Patrick has bought out Adams & Thompson and will continue the business at the old stand. The Post Office will remain where it is for some time to come. Patrick will take possession of the grocery business in about two weeks.
"Mr. Murray will open his dry goods at Ready's old stand."
Oct. 15 — "Mel Legler and Geo. Lewis have put down a fine sidewalk in front of their new building.
"Mrs. E. B. Strickland and family arrived here from Salt Lake City last Friday and will live in the John Ratz house."
Oct. 22 — "W.J. Wetherholt and John Cowan will clerk for Patrick in the Post Office Grocery. (Note, Patrick is going back in the grocery business). Patrick has about completed his new dwelling and is moving into it this week.
"L.D. Woodbury has sold his fine residence on Broadway to Mr. McCully for $1,000."
Nov. 5 — "Mel Legler has just opened a brand new stock of groceries and etc. at his new building. (Note, his advertisement is headed 'Here We Come Again!') "
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