by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
A traditional haunted house painting draped in black cloth overlooks an autumn scene of brillant colors shared by wildflowers, dry grasses and harvested pumpkins of various sizes imbedded in fallen leaves bid farewell to their summer sojourn and signal the fall season with its unique approach to winter.
A bright orange backdrop invaded by a host of spiders imprisoned in their perfectly formed webs, a collection of jack-o'-lanterns, black cats with glowing eyes, antique noisemakers and the inevitable witch's pointed hat warning of the eve of spooks, goblins, and trick or treaters complete the October window display of the historical society museum.
Miniature United States flags line the veterans' window featuring a liberty poster, military service flag enhanced by a background of blue honoring Nov. 11, Veterans Day, formerly Armistice Day.
The society museum will be open Saturday, Oct. 26, at 10 a.m.
October 22, 2013
October 08, 2013
1873 editorial on bank failures and the economic downturn
Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
A sundry of items from the Kansas New Era 140 years ago, Sept. 25, 1873, S. Weaver, Editor:
"The bank failures in the Eastern cities is causing sad work in financial circles. One bank after another is compelled to close being not able to stand the pressure. Wall Street in New York is constantly crowded. Policemen are kept busy keeping free the entrance and exit to the stock exchange, in consequence of so many heavy failures and defalcations it is impossible to form anything like a correct conclusion in regard to how it will effect the currency of the country. Generally, Chicago and St. Louis are already feeling the effect and should it continue much longer, it must, to a very great extent, affect the currency of the whole country.
"Meet whom you will and almost the first thing after the salutation is a reference to the 'Hard Times.' To say that there are not hard times would be considered by the people at large as the saying of an insane man. We admit that money matters are close and that all classes of men feel cramped. The question, however, arises, what has brought about this pressure? Many of us are ready to answer, 'high taxes, high tariff on railroads and the oppression of monopolists in general,' but the question is, can we justly attribute the hard time to those sources? We admit our taxes are exorbitant, that the railroad charges are too high, and that monied corporations oppress us whenever they have the opportunity. After all, part of the fault is in ourselves.
"In the first place, too many people are ready to spend more money than save it. In the second place, many of us do not live within our means, hence we become involved. This in itself will make hard times.
"In the third place, we buy a great many things we could do without and go in debt for them. In the fourth place, we don't take care of what we have.
"Last year we raised a remarkable crop of corn in Kansas, which overstocked the country so that from 12 to 15 cents was the average price. We then said we will roast our shins around the stoves this winter and burn corn. We are not going to haul wood when corn is so cheap. Others hauled in their corn and put in pens and piles without any covering and let it rot, while others turned their stock in upon it to tramp it down into mud.
"Now if this vast amount of corn that was wasted had been properly cared for until the present fall, it would of itself have brought money enough in to the state to make times measurably good.
"Next we are too superficial and impatient and don't bring ourselves down to solid earnestness in our undertakings. To prosper, there must be persistent application, patience, and a determination to succeed!
"To secure good times, we must practice economy at home as well as to correct other evils. To spend our strength and what little means we have to correct other evils and neglect home industry and economy, we will have a failure. Let us encourage home industry and be united in our efforts and we will succeed. This will strike a heavier blow against monopolies than any and all other things put together. If we fight monopolies and lose strength by disunion, we will find by sad experience that our last state is worse that the first."
The Valley Falls Historical Society museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12.
A sundry of items from the Kansas New Era 140 years ago, Sept. 25, 1873, S. Weaver, Editor:
"The bank failures in the Eastern cities is causing sad work in financial circles. One bank after another is compelled to close being not able to stand the pressure. Wall Street in New York is constantly crowded. Policemen are kept busy keeping free the entrance and exit to the stock exchange, in consequence of so many heavy failures and defalcations it is impossible to form anything like a correct conclusion in regard to how it will effect the currency of the country. Generally, Chicago and St. Louis are already feeling the effect and should it continue much longer, it must, to a very great extent, affect the currency of the whole country.
"Meet whom you will and almost the first thing after the salutation is a reference to the 'Hard Times.' To say that there are not hard times would be considered by the people at large as the saying of an insane man. We admit that money matters are close and that all classes of men feel cramped. The question, however, arises, what has brought about this pressure? Many of us are ready to answer, 'high taxes, high tariff on railroads and the oppression of monopolists in general,' but the question is, can we justly attribute the hard time to those sources? We admit our taxes are exorbitant, that the railroad charges are too high, and that monied corporations oppress us whenever they have the opportunity. After all, part of the fault is in ourselves.
"In the first place, too many people are ready to spend more money than save it. In the second place, many of us do not live within our means, hence we become involved. This in itself will make hard times.
"In the third place, we buy a great many things we could do without and go in debt for them. In the fourth place, we don't take care of what we have.
"Last year we raised a remarkable crop of corn in Kansas, which overstocked the country so that from 12 to 15 cents was the average price. We then said we will roast our shins around the stoves this winter and burn corn. We are not going to haul wood when corn is so cheap. Others hauled in their corn and put in pens and piles without any covering and let it rot, while others turned their stock in upon it to tramp it down into mud.
"Now if this vast amount of corn that was wasted had been properly cared for until the present fall, it would of itself have brought money enough in to the state to make times measurably good.
"Next we are too superficial and impatient and don't bring ourselves down to solid earnestness in our undertakings. To prosper, there must be persistent application, patience, and a determination to succeed!
"To secure good times, we must practice economy at home as well as to correct other evils. To spend our strength and what little means we have to correct other evils and neglect home industry and economy, we will have a failure. Let us encourage home industry and be united in our efforts and we will succeed. This will strike a heavier blow against monopolies than any and all other things put together. If we fight monopolies and lose strength by disunion, we will find by sad experience that our last state is worse that the first."
The Valley Falls Historical Society museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12.
October 01, 2013
2013 Grasshopper Falls Day open house
Forty-five visitors attended the Valley Falls Historical Society's open house during Grasshopper Falls Day, Sept. 28.
Free cider and doughnuts were served and guided tours were provided.
Society hosts were Lesa Brose, Leota "Dodie" Bolz, Patty Brown, Joan Reichart, Dalene Senn, Anita Stutesman, Carl and Jill Ellerman, and Betty Jane Wilson.
The museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5.
Free cider and doughnuts were served and guided tours were provided.
Society hosts were Lesa Brose, Leota "Dodie" Bolz, Patty Brown, Joan Reichart, Dalene Senn, Anita Stutesman, Carl and Jill Ellerman, and Betty Jane Wilson.
The museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5.
September 26, 2013
Murray-Heer Motor Co. (Ford dealer) - 301 Broadway
Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
From Ford agency and economy travel promoter in 1925, the Murray-Heer Motor Co. expanded their services. On Dec. 29, 1928, the company held an open house for the public to inspect their new facilities and to celebrate their new "home" at 301 Broadway. The Friday, Dec. 28, 1928, Valley Falls Vindicator publicized the event, including the company's history.
"The Ford agency in Valley Falls was established back in the early 'teens and on July 4th, 1917, the firm of the Harman Agency, Ford Dealers in Valley Falls, was composed of W.B. Mitchell, Geo. Harman and Elmer Lewis, and on that date the firm moved into the fine modern garage on Broadway, now occupied by the Lewis Motor Co. Herbert Murray entered the employ of the firm at that time and Harold Trimble, at this time head mechanic for the Murray-Heer firm, entered the employ of the firm on July 1st, 1919 — they both having been connected with the Ford agency since. Effective January 1st, 1919, Mr. Mitchell sold his interests to Herbert Murray, and this partnership remained in effect until September 1, 1923, when Fred Heer became associated with Mr. Murray and the firm was then known as the Murray-Heer Motor Co. From the time the firm moved into the Harman building in 1917 to the present they have continuously handled the following standard products: Ford Sales and Service, Standard Oil Co., gasoline and oils; and Firestone tires and tubes.
On July 4th, 1917, the stock was valued at $300, while today (1928) it amounts to $10,000. At that time there were four people engaged in the business; while today there are ten — Herbert Murray, Fred Heer, Louise Burris in the office; Eldon Gordon in charge of the parts and stock room; Harold Trimble, head mechanic; Dallas Haskins, in charge of sales; and Leslie Green, Wallace Fowble, Cy Hayes in the mechanical department; and Cecil Lewis, service man."
Headline: Murray-Heer will hold open house Saturday, Dec. 29. Public is invited to inspect the plant. Gifts for the auto drivers and favors for the ladies.
"Saturday, Dec. 29th, Murray-Heer will hold 'open house' to their patrons and friends and the new home will be 'dedicated.' The erection of this fine structure means much to the city of Valley Falls. With its completion Valley Falls now claims one of the best, most modern fireproof Master Service Stations and Ford Agencies in northeast Kansas. Plans were selected after the architect had inspected numerous other buildings of like nature in the larger cities — the most convenient and accessible features were selected from each. Labor saving machinery has been ordered and much has been installed, while some is being made to order. The building itself consists chiefly of steel and cement; with excellent lighting facilities — both day and artificial. The drive-in service station is the last word in convenience — three large visible pumps have been installed for dispensing the three brands of gasoline products of the Standard Oil Co., while air and water are obtainable at three points on the north and east fronts. A large American Blower system of heating with electric radiators known as the Ventura-fin system, has been installed by the Summerfelt agency. The large boiler, located in the basement is known as the Red Flash Boiler — an enameled product of the highest quality. Hot and cold water is obtainable throughout the building, as well as in the Ladies' and Men's rest rooms. In the basement will be found an up-to-date shower bath for the employees. The indirect lighting system in the display room is especially effective."
This location is now the home of Aahh Some Blossom LLC with Julie Brink and Jo Tichenor, proprietresses.
The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28. The special hours are being held for Grasshopper Falls Day. Free cider and doughnuts will be served from 9:30 to noon.
From Ford agency and economy travel promoter in 1925, the Murray-Heer Motor Co. expanded their services. On Dec. 29, 1928, the company held an open house for the public to inspect their new facilities and to celebrate their new "home" at 301 Broadway. The Friday, Dec. 28, 1928, Valley Falls Vindicator publicized the event, including the company's history.
"The Ford agency in Valley Falls was established back in the early 'teens and on July 4th, 1917, the firm of the Harman Agency, Ford Dealers in Valley Falls, was composed of W.B. Mitchell, Geo. Harman and Elmer Lewis, and on that date the firm moved into the fine modern garage on Broadway, now occupied by the Lewis Motor Co. Herbert Murray entered the employ of the firm at that time and Harold Trimble, at this time head mechanic for the Murray-Heer firm, entered the employ of the firm on July 1st, 1919 — they both having been connected with the Ford agency since. Effective January 1st, 1919, Mr. Mitchell sold his interests to Herbert Murray, and this partnership remained in effect until September 1, 1923, when Fred Heer became associated with Mr. Murray and the firm was then known as the Murray-Heer Motor Co. From the time the firm moved into the Harman building in 1917 to the present they have continuously handled the following standard products: Ford Sales and Service, Standard Oil Co., gasoline and oils; and Firestone tires and tubes.
On July 4th, 1917, the stock was valued at $300, while today (1928) it amounts to $10,000. At that time there were four people engaged in the business; while today there are ten — Herbert Murray, Fred Heer, Louise Burris in the office; Eldon Gordon in charge of the parts and stock room; Harold Trimble, head mechanic; Dallas Haskins, in charge of sales; and Leslie Green, Wallace Fowble, Cy Hayes in the mechanical department; and Cecil Lewis, service man."
Headline: Murray-Heer will hold open house Saturday, Dec. 29. Public is invited to inspect the plant. Gifts for the auto drivers and favors for the ladies.
"Saturday, Dec. 29th, Murray-Heer will hold 'open house' to their patrons and friends and the new home will be 'dedicated.' The erection of this fine structure means much to the city of Valley Falls. With its completion Valley Falls now claims one of the best, most modern fireproof Master Service Stations and Ford Agencies in northeast Kansas. Plans were selected after the architect had inspected numerous other buildings of like nature in the larger cities — the most convenient and accessible features were selected from each. Labor saving machinery has been ordered and much has been installed, while some is being made to order. The building itself consists chiefly of steel and cement; with excellent lighting facilities — both day and artificial. The drive-in service station is the last word in convenience — three large visible pumps have been installed for dispensing the three brands of gasoline products of the Standard Oil Co., while air and water are obtainable at three points on the north and east fronts. A large American Blower system of heating with electric radiators known as the Ventura-fin system, has been installed by the Summerfelt agency. The large boiler, located in the basement is known as the Red Flash Boiler — an enameled product of the highest quality. Hot and cold water is obtainable throughout the building, as well as in the Ladies' and Men's rest rooms. In the basement will be found an up-to-date shower bath for the employees. The indirect lighting system in the display room is especially effective."
This location is now the home of Aahh Some Blossom LLC with Julie Brink and Jo Tichenor, proprietresses.
The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28. The special hours are being held for Grasshopper Falls Day. Free cider and doughnuts will be served from 9:30 to noon.
September 11, 2013
Shrine Church history 1925-1955
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
The little Shrine Church, resident of the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, has played a number of roles, each of historic significance.
First recognized as the first Lutheran Church built west of the Missouri River on Kansas soil, the building served the congregation of the Rev. J.B. McAfee. Removed from its original foundation to make room for a family residence, the church served the African Methodist Episcopal congregation, as a public meeting place, a public schoolroom, and home to temporarily orphaned denominations of worshippers. All well-known facts to citizens of the Valley Falls community.
An outstanding role, organized by Mrs. E.E. (Lida) Ferguson and Mrs. R.C. Simpson, was that of Bible school for African-American folk of Valley Falls who were having no privileges of religious services. According to a Valley Falls Vindicator article July 1955, the school was organized in 1925 and time was set for 10 a.m. Sundays.
The meeting place was in the Second M.E. Church, which was badly in need of repairs. Come winter the room was uncomfortably cold, so when the second winter came, the group moved to the Second Baptist Church building where all were comfortable until spring rains began. The roof was a veritable sieve, letting water pour through onto song books and study literature, ruining all supplies donated by other churches. It was decided a new beginning had to be made.
Of the other buildings at their disposal, it was decided to repair the building that would cost the least in outlay of cash and work.
The Second Baptist Church had a paving mortgage of $300, besides a roof that would have to be replaced. The Second M.E. Building needed walls to be repaired and the foundation pointed up, but had no mortgage to be paid off; so was chosen as the building to be repaired.
An appeal was sent out to churches and friends for financial aid. Mrs. A.D. Kendall backed the Bible school organization morally and financially. Friends gave substantial assistance, including a piano and heating stove. The Lutheran Church of Chapman sent discarded pulpit furniture, consisting of three high-backed chairs and a pulpit. Others donated their work specialty — foundation repair etc. The Coal Creek Church donated hanging lamps, later replaced with electric fixtures.
During the 30-year period from 1925 to 1955 of the school's existence, the church again needed repairs and redecoration. Again friends of the church came to the rescue. Since members of the school represented several different church denominations, the school was named Colored Union Sunday School. Mrs. E.E. Ferguson, pianist, together with Mrs. R.C. Simpson guided the activities and studies of all the years.
On July 24, 1955, a dedication of the building and celebration of the 30th anniversary of the organization of the school was held. All churches of the community were invited to attend.
The society's museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14.
September 03, 2013
September window displays remembers former town names, Sept. 11th attack
by Betty Jane Wilson, society president
The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum windows reflect images and dates of past history of Valley Falls and more recent national history.
The seasonal window features a mural painted by local artist Susan Phillips, of the Kansas Central Railroad Bridge, circa approximately 1865, with the Piazzek Mill in the background. Piazzek Mill photos are included in the scene.
With the approach of Grasshopper Falls Day, reminders of our town's trio of names and dates are illustrated.
A brief review of the town's nomenclature columns: Originally named Grasshopper Falls, with history of the town's beginning in 1854, located near the Falls on the Grasshopper River. The voracious grasshopper invasions of 1855, 1860, and 1861, ruining crops and threatening livelihoods so incensed the residents that they were fed up with the Grasshopper name. They asked the legislature to change the name of the river, township, and town to Sautrelle. October 1863, the names were changed to Sautrelle (French for grasshopper). The change was taunted by a sundry of reactions from citizens, editors, and outsiders who substituted "Sow Tail" for Sautrelle. The populace did not relish the nickname so the legislature restored the old name, "Grasshopper Falls" in 1864.
The Kansas New Era, Feb. 12, 1874, reported:
"The subject of changing the name of our town, Grasshopper Falls, is again being agitated"
The Kansas Quarterly reported:
"By irony of fate, the grasshoppers came again in 1874, so meetings of residents with the legislature in 1875 resulted in passing a bill changing the name of the town to Valley Falls, Delaware River, and Delaware Township — Delaware for the Indians, former inhabitants.
The veterans' window features memories of a shocked nation and world. The vicious attack on U.S. cities — the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.
The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7.
The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum windows reflect images and dates of past history of Valley Falls and more recent national history.
The seasonal window features a mural painted by local artist Susan Phillips, of the Kansas Central Railroad Bridge, circa approximately 1865, with the Piazzek Mill in the background. Piazzek Mill photos are included in the scene.
With the approach of Grasshopper Falls Day, reminders of our town's trio of names and dates are illustrated.
A brief review of the town's nomenclature columns: Originally named Grasshopper Falls, with history of the town's beginning in 1854, located near the Falls on the Grasshopper River. The voracious grasshopper invasions of 1855, 1860, and 1861, ruining crops and threatening livelihoods so incensed the residents that they were fed up with the Grasshopper name. They asked the legislature to change the name of the river, township, and town to Sautrelle. October 1863, the names were changed to Sautrelle (French for grasshopper). The change was taunted by a sundry of reactions from citizens, editors, and outsiders who substituted "Sow Tail" for Sautrelle. The populace did not relish the nickname so the legislature restored the old name, "Grasshopper Falls" in 1864.
The Kansas New Era, Feb. 12, 1874, reported:
"The subject of changing the name of our town, Grasshopper Falls, is again being agitated"
The Kansas Quarterly reported:
"By irony of fate, the grasshoppers came again in 1874, so meetings of residents with the legislature in 1875 resulted in passing a bill changing the name of the town to Valley Falls, Delaware River, and Delaware Township — Delaware for the Indians, former inhabitants.
The veterans' window features memories of a shocked nation and world. The vicious attack on U.S. cities — the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.
The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7.
August 29, 2013
Put your star on Broadway!
If you'd like to order a personalized brick for the new church courtyard, the order form is attached.
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