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D. F. Best
Winfield.
Winfield 1874: David F. Best, 28; spouse, Augusta C., 24.
Kansas 1875 Census, Winfield Township, Cowley County, March 1, 1875.
Name age sex color Place/birth Where from
D. F. Best 29 m w Kentucky Indiana
Winfield 1878: C. E. Best, 22. No spouse listed.
Winfield 1878: D. F. Best, 32; spouse, A. C., 26.
Winfield 1880: D. F. Best, 34; spouse, Augusta C., 30.
Winfield Directory 1880.
Best, Mrs. A. C., D. F. Best; r. same.
Roberts, Clarence, clerk, D. F. Best, boards same.
Wood, A. C., clerk, D. F. Best, r. Manning, corner 11th avenue.
Woodruff, A. C., agent, D. F. Best, organs, boards F. M. Frazer [?Frazee].
[Earlier entry shows F. M. Frazee. Unknown: Frazee or Frazer.]
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS.
BEST, D. F., Main, w. s. between 9th and 10th avenues.
SEWING MACHINE AGENTS.
BEST, D. F., Main, w. s. between 9th and 10th avenues.
Winfield Directory 1885.
Best D F, machines and music, 916 Main, res 210 e 11th.
FROM THE NEWSPAPERS.
[COWLEY COUNTY FAIR—LIST OF PREMIUMS AWARDED.]
Winfield Messenger, October 4, 1872.
Lot 40.
There were some very interesting specimens of Cowley County salt and coal, also gypsum, and some stalactites from a cave in Tisdale Township, exhibited by Mrs. Magness.
There were placed on exhibition, but no premiums awarded, a cane, a beautiful specimen of wood carving by Mr. Webb; two telescope rifles by Mr. Wigton, sewing machines by Mr. Boyer and Mr. Best, school desks by Mr. Boyer, Mr. Greer, Mr. Best, and Mr. Brower.
Winfield Messenger, October 4, 1872.
The National School Furniture can be seen at Best office one door North of the Bank, Winfield, Kansas.
Winfield Messenger, October 25, 1872.
Only $4.50 for first-class board at D. F. Best’s.
Winfield Messenger, October 25, 1872.
PRIVATE BOARDING. Persons desiring first-class board at $4.50 per week will please call at once on D. F. Best, Church street.
Winfield Messenger, October 25, 1872.
The new Wheeler & Wilson is the best family sewing machine. Try it. Terms $5 per month. D. F. Best, agent, Winfield, Kansas.
Winfield Messenger, October 25, 1872.
Buy the rotating hook (new Wheeler & Wilson) machine. It is the best. Makes the least noise. Does the greatest variety of work. Runs the lightest, and is the easiest to operate. Will outlast three shuttle machines. Terms nineteen months’ time without interest. D. F. Best, agent.
Winfield Messenger, November 1, 1872.
The new Wheeler & Wilson is the best family sewing machine. Try it. Terms $5 per month. D. F. Best, agent, Winfield, Kansas.
Winfield Courier, April 24, 1874.
A little misunderstanding arose one day last week between Mr. S. Jones, of Arkansas City, and D. F. Best, of Winfield, with reference to money matters. From words the disputants proceeded to blows, and after a short but lively scrabble, Mr. Jones succeeded in placing Best in a position unfavorable for the well being of his optics, when the latter yelled “enough,” and was let up glad enough to come out second Best. Traveler.
Winfield Courier, March 25, 1875.
Notice. There will be a meeting of the stockholders of the Winfield Cemetery Association on Wednesday, March 31, 1875, at W. H. H. Maris’ store. All persons owning a lot in the Winfield Cemetery are stockholders, and entitled to vote at the meeting. A full attendance is requested. The following is a list of the said stockholders.
JOHN B. FAIRBANK, Secretary.
John Lowry, C. A. Bliss, Mrs. Clara Flint, Robert Hudson, W. L. Fortner, W. H. Dunn, Mallard, Dr. D. N. Egbert, J. H. Land, W. M. Boyer, A. Menor, S. J. Swanson, Mrs. Eliza Davis, M. L. Read. S. C. Smith, Kenton, Marshall, Henry Martin, W. H. H. Maris, Mrs. K. Maris, E. Maris, J. Newman, L. J. Webb, J. W. Smiley, George W. Brown, John Rhoads, H. B. Lacy, L. T. Mitchener, George Gray, N. W. Holmes, John Mentch, M. Steward, J. J. Barrett, J. W. Johnson, J. Evans, Cutting, W. G. Graham, S. W. Greer, Dr. W. Q. Mansfield, J. D. Cochran, C. C. Stephens, W. H. South, J. C. Weathers, Mrs. Joseph Foos, G. S. Manser, Mrs. Southworth, A. A. Jackson, J. F. Graham, Mrs. H. McMasters, S. H. Myton, S. H. Darrah, M. L. Robinson, D. H. Rodocker, R. H. Tucker, James Kelly, W. Dibble, D. F. Best, Z. T. Swigart, R. Rogers.
Winfield Courier, July 27, 1876.
MARRIED. LORE - DAVIS. At the residence of Mr. Best, July 19th, by Rev. N. L. Rigby, Mr. James Lore and Miss Samantha Davis.
Winfield Courier, October 12, 1876.
An agreeable little company assembled at the house of Mr. D. F. Best Tuesday evening to welcome the arrival of his brother, Charley Best, who has just located in our city. The party, we are told, was an enjoyable one.
Winfield Courier, March 15, 1877.
Sewing machine needles, oils, and parts for all machines, by D. F. Best, Agent.
Winfield Courier, March 15, 1877.
Ponies, cows, and young cattle taken in exchange for sewing machines, by D. F. Best, agent.
Winfield Courier, March 22, 1877.
Wanted. Good salesman to sell the “New No. 8,” No. 2, and “Magic Stop,” in Southwestern Kansas. D. F. BEST, Gen. Agent.
Winfield Courier, September 27, 1877.
1872-1877 SEWING MACHINES, ORGANS & PIANOS!
D. F. BEST, Winfield, Kansas, Special Agent for the “NEW NO. 8,” for the Counties of Cowley, Sumner, Elk, and Chautauqua.
A new Machine with straight needle, particularly self-setting. No shuttle to thread, work runs back from operator, does not oil thread or goods. It is the simplest and easiest to handle; runs easily, quietly, and rapidly, and is the most durable and best Machine in the World. Sold on Easy Terms and Fully Warranted.
ORGANS AND PIANOS! We are also prepared to furnish Organs and Pianos of the best standard makes at reasonable prices, on terms to suit purchasers. We make a specialty of the new “MAGIC STOP” ORGAN, which possesses special advantages over other organs.
Call and See and Hear them at our Rooms on Main St.
Stock or Produce taken in payment for Machines, Organs, or Pianos.
SEWING MACHINES ADJUSTED AND REPAIRED.
Needles, Oils, Attachments, and Repairs for all Machines.
Office on Main Street. WINFIELD, KANSAS. D. F. BEST.
Winfield Courier, December 27, 1877.
S. D. Klingman and D. F. Best will probably open a dry goods store. They each received many invoices of goods by the Methodist Christmas ship.
Winfield Courier, October 10, 1878.
Mr. Best is building an addition to his house on Eleventh Avenue.
Winfield Courier, October 17, 1878.
Best Bros. have removed to Manning’s block their stock of Musical Instruments and Sewing Machines. Lowest prices and best goods is our motto.
Winfield Courier, October 17, 1878.
Hurrah! Best Bros. are selling machines of better quality and at lower prices than any firm in Cowley. Call and see them at their new rooms, Manning block.
Winfield Courier, October 17, 1878.
Caution! Norman Shomber is no longer in our employ and we caution our patrons not to allow him in any manner to tamper with our machines, nor will we be responsible for any money paid him on our account. BEST BRO’S.
Brother of D. F. Best (Charley E. Best) gets married...
Winfield Courier, October 24, 1878.
MARRIED. BEST-SMITH. At the residence of the bride’s sister, in Oxford, on the 16th inst., at 7 o’clock p.m., by the Rev. Brooks, C. E. Best, of this place, to Miss Lulu F. Smith, of Warsaw, Indiana.
Winfield Courier, November 21, 1878.
A few days ago while Mrs. D. F. Best and Mrs. Charlie Best were out for a drive the horses took fright and ran away, throwing both ladies from the carriage and injuring them both severely. They were taken to the residence of Mr. Doolittle, where they were kindly cared for until they were able to be taken home. They are getting along nicely at present. Miss Anna Clark, a sister of Mrs. D. F. Best, was taken ill at the same time of a congestive chill and is now lying at the point of death.
Winfield Courier, December 12, 1878.
All Ladies and Gentlemen interested in fine work should not fail to call at the office of D. F. Best on Saturday next and see the fine work done on the New Improved No. 8 Sewing Machine. It will be operated between the hours of 9 and 11 a.m., and from 2 to 4 p.m. Don’t fail to see it. D. F. BEST, Agent.
Winfield Courier, December 12, 1878.
Notice. Anyone purchasing the Wheeler & Wilson New No. 8 Sewing Machine from any other than our regular authorized agent, in Cowley, Sumner, and Chautauqua counties, does it at their own peril, as we will not be responsible for the title to said machine. We have lost three new No. 8 machines, and they will be taken up when found. D. F. Best is our regular authorized agent for the above counties and his title is good, and receipts will be given in his name for all machines sold by him or his agents. Be careful to see that plate numbers are mentioned in receipt or notes given.
WHEELER & WILSON MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 2, 1879.
The following is a list of new buildings erected in the city of Winfield since January 1, 1878, with the name of owner and cost of building.
D. F. Best, residence, frame: $700.
[COURIER ADVERTISERS.]
Winfield Courier, January 2, 1879.
BEST, D. F., is an industrious and energetic vender of sewing machines, organs, and pianos. He has a fine stock on hand of the best of their kinds, and shows them in the most gracious and pleasing manner.
[ADVERTISERS FOUND WITH ADDRESSES.]
Winfield Courier, January 2, 1879.
D. F. BEST’S SEWING MACHINE & ORGAN ROOMS. MAIN STREET.
[WINFIELD BUSINESS FIRMS.]
Winfield Courier, March 27, 1879.
The following is a list of the principal business firms of Winfield.
SEWING MACHINES. F. M. Friend, T. J. Harris, D. F. Best.
Winfield Courier, May 15, 1879.
Our wife has got a new No. 8 (that is what they call it), and is happy. We are happy, too, because she is so smiling and cheerful and does not make a clatter like a threshing machine when she runs her machine; besides she does not get tired, but sleeps sweetly at night.
We told D. F. Best to deliver to her the best sewing machine that ever was made, and believe he has obeyed to the letter, at least our wife thinks so.
The points of superiority she claims for it are:
1st. It is noiseless.
2nd. It is worked with the greatest ease.
3rd. It works rapidly.
4th. It makes substantial work.
5th. The work is neat and beautiful.
6th. It does every kind of work.
7th. It is always in repair.
8th. It is a beautiful piece of furniture.
And, finally, she would not have any other kind in the house.
Winfield Courier, June 5, 1879.
Best Bros. have put up a large circular sign.
[CORRESPONDENT “H. P. M” - (Hattie P. (Crocker) Mansfield of Winfield.)]
Winfield Courier, September 18, 1879.
SNOW HILL, SALT CITY, KS., Sept. 12th, 1879.
ED. COURIER: After a dusty drive of three hours, we arrived at this Saratoga of the “Great American Desert,” without meeting any hair-breadth escapes, or observing anything wonderful on the way. Having pitched our tent and pegged it down strong, we proceeded to unpack our provision-chest, to find “refreshments for the inner (wo-)man.” A sheet-iron stove, which we found in the garden at home, answered our purpose well, and we were soon provided with a splendid cup of coffee; in fact, a good dinner altogether.
Finally our teamster left us for Winfield, and we (two women) turned to and settled—put down our carpet, made our bed, fixed up a shelf for dishes, and lots of little nothings which only a woman knows how to do, for comfort and convenience. Then we began to wonder how we should ever kill the time, as there were so few places of interest, or objects for society.
Altogether there were five families on this snowy-eminence, made white by the salt at the north of us, and at first sight looked like frozen water; so I christened it “Snow Hill.” Nothing disturbed our quiet, care-free slumbers, not even the snakes, which the people at home declared would be our nightly visitants.
Next day we spent the morning in watching for our Oxford friends, and just at noon they “hove” in sight, bag and baggage. Now Richie had a companion, and he saw his way through two weeks.
This day we explored the immense salt-works, and found that some shiftless parties had control of it, for more than half of the vats were empty and dried up for want of proper care—the hose rotten and the windmill falling to pieces.
Mrs. Foster, an old resident of Salt City, spent the day with me, and in her true kindness, offered us anything we needed to add to our comfort; afterwards sending us vegetables, jellies, milk, etc., which were acceptable.
The boys borrowed a gun and brought down a fine duck for our dinner Wednesday, and since then we have had all the game we wanted. Varieties of birds, both webbed and non-webbed, are shot here, but the strangest one was a pelican, measuring five feet or more from the tips of its wings, and could swallow a fish weighing four or five pounds. What with wandering about, three meals a day, and all the gossip of three cities—Salt City, Oxford, and Winfield—besides letter writing and knitting, we manage to get through the days in a hurry.
Yesterday Mitchell and Newman came up with shovels, forks, rods, and pipes, to play in the springs, and upon drawing an auger attached to a rod 20 feet long from a spring which had the old pipe, stones were thrown out as large as a goose-egg, which had every appearance of having been melted by extreme heat. What these gentlemen will accomplish they themselves do not know, but it will take a small fortune to employ competent men to put things in order, to make a paying investment. Then look out for a nickel a glass for this medicinal water. Better all come this year, while you can pitch your tent anywhere, wear calico dresses, dispense with cosmetics, shoot birds, and romp to your heart’s content.
We are waiting and watching for Sunday and that Winfield party: Read’s, Robinson’s, and Spotswood’s, besides Mrs. Best and Mrs. Roberts, with their tent and goodies, which we may be able to borrow, as they are freshly cooked.
Yesterday afternoon a black cloud in the west admonished us to gather up our wetables, as we should probably have an opportunity to see whether our tent, which had never been wet, would turn water; and I assure you, I not only shall turn agent for the manufacturer, but shall always speak a good word for the lender.
That, like the rest of the world, you and your readers may be envious, I will say that we are to have green peas, fresh from the field, for dinner today. Respectfully, H. P. M.
Winfield Courier, January 27, 1881.
REMOVAL. August Kadau has removed his boot and shoe shop to Main street, in the building two doors north of Best’s music store.
Winfield Courier, May 12, 1881.
Mr. D. F. Best was arrested Tuesday afternoon on complaint of the marshal for not removing filth from his alley after having been notified to do so. This is the right thing to do. The health of all in the city is jeopardized by leaving filth, manure piles, and garbage putrefying in our alleys.
[RELIEF FOR THE SUFFERERS BY THE FLORAL CYCLONE.]
Winfield Courier, June 16, 1881.
A considerable number of the citizens of Winfield met on Monday evening on the steps of the Winfield Bank to provide for raising funds for the immediate relief of the sufferers caused by the cyclone Sunday evening. Mr. Crippen called the people together by music from the band.
D. F. Best: $1.00.
Best moved into building lately occupied by Brown & Son...
Winfield Courier, September 22, 1881.
D. F. Best has moved his stock of sewing machines into the building lately occupied by Brown & Son.
Winfield Directory 1880.
BROWN & SON, drugs, books and stationery, Main w. s. bet 8th and 9th avenues.
[IMPORTANT DECISIONS: JUDGE TORRANCE.]
Cowley County Courant, Thursday, December 1, 1881.
The decision of Judge Torrance in the case of the Wheeler & Wilson manufacturing company against Peter Thompson and wife, is of great interest to the public generally, and we therefore give a synopsis of it: The defendant, Thompson, bought a Wheeler & Wilson sewing machine, No. 8, of their local agent, N. Wimber, who was then selling sewing machines for D. F. Best, of this city.
The price was $75; of this amount Thompson paid $30 down and gave two notes signed by himself and wife, one for $25 payable in six months, and the other for $20 payable in one year. Thompson claimed that Wimber warranted the machine to do good work, and at the trial offered to prove the warranty, and also to prove that the machine never did do good work and was worthless to him as a sewing machine.
This Judge Torrance refused to let him do, and decided that the notes made by Thompson and wife were the contract between them and the sewing machine company, and that nothing else could be proven as part of the contract except what was in those notes. That is, that though the agent might have warranted the machine when he sold it, still the company would not be liable for such warranty unless it was included in the written contract made at the time with the two notes in this instance. Purchasers of sewing machines, or anything else for that matter, with warranty, should see that the warranty is contained in the written contract if one is made, or else it may be void.
Winfield Courier, December 15, 1881.
LOOK HERE. If you want any piece or part of a sewing machine, whether the machine is an ancient or modern one, you can get it at D. F. Best’s. Same is the case regarding musical
instruments.
Cowley County Courant, March 16, 1882.
We are informed that the Domestic Sewing Machine Company have appointed D. F. Best sole agent for the “light running Domestic,” for Cowley County in place of F. M. Friend, their former agent. With the “light running Domestic” and the “New Silent No. 8,” Mr. Best fears no competition, and in the future, as in the past, will continue to do the largest sewing machine trade in Cowley County. When in the city, call and see him.
Mr. Best is also the agent for the Smith American organs.
Winfield Courier, March 16, 1882.
Mr. A. B. Howard, General Manager of the Wheeler & Wilson M. F. G. Co., spent Monday with D. F. Best, their agent here. He is delighted with the country and its business outlook.
Winfield Courier, March 16, 1882.
The agency for the New Domestic sewing machine has been transferred from Mr. Friend to Mr. D. F. Best. This machine will now be found on exhibition at his store.
Most confusing! Hudson Bros. moving into Best’s building. Article does not indicate where Best is going!...
Winfield Courier, March 16, 1882.
Early in the week Hudson Bros., will remove their jewelry store temporarily to the building next to Brown’s drug store, where Best now is, and will begin the erection of a large and commodious store building on the site of their present store. Until this is completed, their old customers will find them at Brown’s old stand.
Next article indicates Hudson Bros. moving in with Best and that his store is next to Brown & Son???...
Winfield Courier, March 23, 1882.
AD. WE ARE NOT BUSTED, Bur are only removing our Jewelry Store across the street NEXT TO BROWN’S DRUG STORE, Where we will be found until the completion of our NEW BUILDING! Which will be erected immediately on the site of the old store. In order to hold our trade and be ready to go into the new store with an entirely NEW STOCK! We will for the next ninety days sell Watches, Clocks, Jewelry, and Silverware at NET COST!
Some rare bargains are offered and the public should lose no time in examining the stock and selecting what they need. Every house in Cowley County should be furnished with a time piece, and never gain will the people have such an opportunity to buy them at such prices as we now offer.
Remember the place, next to Brown’s drug store, with D. F. Best. HUDSON BROS.
Cowley County Courant, April 27, 1882.
Seventy-five dollars per month and expenses for good, reliable salesmen to sell our “Silent No. 8,” in Cowley and Sumner Counties. D. F. BEST, Manager.
Winfield Courier, April 27, 1882.
D. F. Best received the largest invoice of sewing machines ever brought to the county, last Monday. It was a carload of the “New Silent No. 8" machines. Twenty thousand pounds of sewing machines are a good many.
Cowley County Courant, June 8, 1882.
The United Workmen have learned a secret outside of their lodge room, and that is, never postpone a picnic to beat the weather. If the weather proves bad on the day set, adjourn sine die. The Winfield Lodge of United Workmen took every step needful to make their picnic a success. It was evident on Tuesday night that the skies would not be propitious on Thursday, the 25th, the day first named, whereupon the committee on arrangements concluded to postpone the picnic till Tuesday, and at once either wrote or telegraphed the postponement to every lodge that had been invited. The Workmen lodge at Leon and the Select Knights of Wellington failed to receive the notice, and sent delegations over for Thursday. They had no picnic, but took the opportunity to go over Winfield and take it in under an umbrella. Monday afternoon everything looked favorable, and Tuesday morning, the day last appointed, promised fine weather. All the committees were alive and put things in shape for a gala day at the Park. The stand was decorated with wreaths of flowers and emblems of the order. D. F. Best allowed the lodge to use one of his splendid organs, and that was taken to the stand. There were swings and croquet provided, and the Archery Club commenced to gather in their marksmen and women of the bow. The stands stood loaded with refreshments and the Park in its dress of green looked lovely enough for a section out of Paradise, and the Workmen were happy. At 11 o’clock a.m., the procession was formed on Main street under the leadership of W. J. Hodges, marshal of the day, and took up its line of march to the Park. Oxford and Arkansas City Lodges A. O. U. W. were in the ranks. The Good Templars of this city, with their band of hope, joined in. But soon after the Park was reached, black clouds began to darken the sky in the southwest, and low, threatening peals of thunder alarmed the gathered crowd, and it soon became evident that the picnic there must be given up. Announcement was then made that the program of exercises would be gone through with at the Opera House, and thither repaired all of the picnickers who did not go home. Baskets loaded full of good things were opened in the hall, strangers present invited to refresh the inner man, and the situation endured as well as possible. About half past 2 o’clock a broken program was carried out, while the rain was falling heavily outside. Rev. C. H. Canfield made the opening prayer. There was a song rendered in the usual excellent style by the Grace Church choir. Prof. Trimble addressed a few words in welcome to the visitors. The main features of the afternoon were the two fine addresses delivered, one by W. R. Sheen, of Lawrence, Kansas, Grand Master Workman of the order in the State, and the other by E. M. Forde, Grand Recorder. These we hope to give our readers soon in print.
A social and reception was called for in the evening and all Winfield invited to come, and that proved to be an enjoyable affair. From 8 o’clock to 12 o’clock crowds of young and old promenaded in the hall, partaking of ice cream, or of that even more delicious reflection, soft things whispered in contiguous ears, evolving rosy blushes and sparkling eyes. Between 9 and 10 o’clock the seats were put in place, and J. F. McMullen, Master Workman of the Lodge, and J. Wade McDonald entertained the audience with brief impromptu speeches. The audience resumed their promenading, flirting, chatting, etc. There was also some impromptu music and harp and banjo playing till a late hour when the affair broke up. Picnicking in an Opera House is much like skating on a parlor floor—a poor substitute for the real thing. Yet the Workmen did the best they could under the circumstances. An amphitheater or pavilion at Riverside Park would have been worth “millions” to them yesterday. When can we have it?
Winfield Courier, July 6, 1882.
BOSTON, KANSAS CITY, AND WINFIELD. The South American Piano and Organ Factories at Boston, Massachusetts, Branch house at Kansas City, Missouri. Special prices and terms will be given for a few days, by the representative of the manufacturers. Call at once at Best’s Music House.
Kirk building must refer to Kirk’s blacksmith shop.
Lynn: southwest corner of Main Street and 8th Avenue.
Kirk’s building would have been the building north of Lynn.
Winfield Courier, September 14, 1882.
D. F. Best has moved his stock of sewing machines and musical instruments to the Kirk building, one door north of Lynn’s.
[COWLEY COUNTY FAIR.]
Winfield Courier, September 28, 1882.
“CLASS G”—MECHANIC ARTS. This class was the most closely contested on the grounds. The competition in churns, sewing machines, washing machines, and such like is always lively. The high honors on sewing machines were easily won by D. F. Best with his “Silent No. 8.” Fitch & Barron, of Arkansas City, got the second prize.
Winfield Courier, October 5, 1882.
D. F. BEST, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL DEALER IN SEWING MACHINES, ORGANS. PIANOS AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS, OUR SPECIALTIES.
The New Silent “No. 8,” The Light-Running Domestic, Smith American Organs, and Knabe Pianos.
We will sell you any Sewing Machine, Organ, or Piano at FACTORY PRICES.
Good Agents Wanted. D. F. BEST, Winfield, Kansas, West Side Main Street.
[PROHIBITION.]
Winfield Courier, February 1, 1883.
WINFIELD DON’T WANT SALOONS.
On looking over carefully the list of signatures on the petition to Hackney, we find a considerable number of names of persons who live in the country, and many more whom nobody knows. We find only 101 names, less than half of those on the petition, who are known as citizens of Winfield. Less than half of these probably understood what they were signing, and are in favor of saloons. It is presumable that the originators got all the names of prominent Winfield men they could by any kind of representations; and, considering all these things, the petition is not so very formidable after all. But it is enough to give our city a bad name, and give a severe stab to the cause of prohibition. The Kansas City Journal’s Topeka correspondence says that the names of all the prominent men and business firms of Winfield are found on that petition, except one bank and one hardware store. We notice that the following Winfield firms and names are conspicuously absent from the petition.
D. F. Best was one of those who did not sign the petition.
Winfield Courier, April 12, 1883.
A Great Bargain. 160 acres near Winfield, well improved, 20 acres in wheat, will be sold very cheap for cash or on easy payments, or trade for city property. D. F. BEST.
Winfield Courier, April 12, 1883.
I have a large stock of sewing machines both new and second hand of almost every make, which I must close out to make room for new. For the next ten days I will offer special bar-gains, either for cash or in payments. Don’t fail to call and see me. D. F. BEST.
Winfield Courier, April 19, 1883.
No shop worn pianos or organs offered as new by Best, order one, get it new and save $50.
Best’s Music Store: Main Street...
Winfield Courier, May 3, 1883.
To the Ladies of Winfield and surrounding country. H. D. Cromwell, Fashionable Hair Dresser, has taken rooms upstairs over Best’s Music Store, Main St., where you can have all kinds of Hair Work made to order: Switches, Waves, Frizzes, Puffs, and Curls, and every kind of hair jewelry made and mounted in solid gold. Old and faded switches cleaned and recolored in any shade. Waves rewaved in every style. All work warranted. Charges reasonable. Give me a trial. H. D. CROMWELL.
Best must have moved from Kirk building to Main Street address (not given). It now appears that he has moved again, but again no address is given for new store...
Winfield Courier, September 13, 1883.
Call at the New Jewelry store in Best’s old stand.
Winfield Courier, September 13, 1883.
Watches, Clocks, and Jewelry repaired at the New Jewelry store, Best’s old stand.
Winfield Courier, September 13, 1883.
Mr. M. Ramsey from Iowa, has opened out a new jewelry store at Best’s old stand. He comes highly recommended by eastern firms as a first class workman, is a pleasant appearing gentleman and seems likely to take with our people.
[COWLEY COUNTY FAIR & DRIVING PARK ASSOCIATION.]
Winfield Courier, September 27, 1883.
On the west side of this hall is the array of our dealers in musical instruments—and sewing machines, Messrs. Friend, Stimson, Best, Roberts, and Fitch & Barron. The exhibitors of musical instruments have an attraction in good vocal and instrumental music, while the sewing machine gentlemen have to depend entirely on the oiliness of their tongues.
Winfield Courier, November 1, 1883.
Organs! A few second hand Organs (as good as new) are offered at half price at D. F. Best’s Sewing Machine rooms, Winfield.
Winfield Courier, December 6, 1883.
A young man was arrested Tuesday charged with committing a rape on the person of a young girl who had been in the employ of D. F. Best. The girl states that the deed was committed over a week ago at Best’s house. The case comes to trial the latter part of this week.
Winfield Directory 1880:
JOHNSTON & HILL, furniture, Main, e. s. bet 9th and 10th avenues.
Winfield Directory 1885:
Johnston, J. W., furniture, 918 Main, res 1102 Menor.
Best in January 1884 was in building next to Johnston & Hill’s furniture store...
Winfield Courier, January 24, 1884.
Incendiarism. Tuesday night about half past twelve the building occupied by Mr. Best, next to Johnston & Hill’s furniture store, was set on fire by someone. The side of the building a few feet from the sidewalk was saturated with coal oil and set on fire. Someone happened to be passing just afterward, gave the alarm, and the blaze was put out before it had fairly got underway. A piece of siding torn from the building smells strongly of coal oil. If it had been discovered five minutes later, five buildings, at least, would have gone up in smoke. What the object of the incendiary was is a mystery. Some connect it with the existence of a gambling room in the upper part of the building—a fact that does not seem to have been known to anyone until Wednesday morning. About the time of the alarm, someone tried to get in the back door of Hudson Bros. Jewelry Store, but were frightened off by a pistol shot from John Hudson, who was sleeping in the building. The fire might have been set by someone with the intention of getting everyone out and burglarizing the town. The marshal ought to keep a sharp look-out for tramps, vags, and strangers generally. The fire bell rope is said to have been cut before the fire.
Winfield Courier, January 31, 1884.
Last week’s Telegram stated that Tom Herrod discovered the fire in the Best building Tuesday night previous, and gave the alarm. It was mistaken. Frank Crampton was returning from a dance between twelve and one o’clock when he discovered the fire and gave the alarm. George Bacastow had not yet closed the bakery. They grabbed a couple of pails of water and extinguished the fire before anyone else got there. They say it looked as if a bunch of shavings had been thrown between the buildings and set on fire.
[REAL ESTATE OFFICE: GEN. A. H. GREEN.]
Winfield Courier, July 17, 1884.
Gen. A. H. Green has established his real estate office in the rooms over Best’s Music Store.
Winfield Courier, December 11, 1884.
Mr. D. F. Taylor, of Pennsylvania, bought Monday, through Harris & Clark, the D. F. Best farm, four miles north of town, for $2,300; also the Nancy A. Pierson farm in the same neighborhood, for $1,200.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1884.
New Location. Miss J. E. Mansfield has moved her Millinery stock into Best’s music stand, where she would be pleased to meet all her old friends and customers.
[COWLEY COUNTY DISTRICT COURT.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 1, 1885.
CIVIL DOCKET. SIXTH DAY. A. H. Green v. D. F. Best et al.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 12, 1885.
Constable H. H. Siverd “took in” Jas. Cantrall, charged with conducting a secret liquor and gambling den over Best’s music store, yesterday. He was placed under bond of $500 to appear before Justice Snow for a preliminary hearing on the 20th inst. The bond was given.
[COWLEY COUNTY DISTRICT COURT.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 9, 1885.
The case of D. F. Best, for disturbing the peace of an Arkansas City individual some time ago, was the first case called in the District Court this morning. He was acquitted.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 23, 1885.
In the District Court today the case of A. H. Green against D. F. Best, action to reform a lease, was decided in favor of the plaintiff.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 23, 1885.
Judge Torrance got home this morning from a day at Kansas City, and immediately set the District Court to grinding. The day has been taken up with the case of A. H. Green against D. F. Best, suit to set aside a lease. The lease is for the store-room now occupied by Mr. Best. The lease reads for the whole building, Mr. Green claiming a mistake in its execution, which should have been for only the lower part. Trial by the court.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 7, 1885.
A. H. Green attached the musical instruments of D. F. Best and closed his place of business Friday, for $40 in rent. Mr. Best claims he don’t owe the debt and will replevin the goods and stand suit.
J. E. Mansfield and D. F. Best: west side Main Street...
Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 7, 1885.
Removal. J. E. Mansfield at her old stand, 2nd door north of Whiting Bros., after May 10th. Spring Millinery at cost until that time, to save moving. J. E. Mansfield, west side Main street, with D. F. Best.
[COWLEY COUNTY DISTRICT COURT.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 25, 1885.
The appeal case of A. H. Green vs. D. F. Best, from Buckman’s court, suit to recover rent, has been filed.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 30, 1885.
A. H. Green and D. F. Best are at it again. Thursday Best got out of Green’s building, taking with him its tail end, a little shed, which he said he owned. Green has sued him for “maliciously and feloniously” moving property off his (Green’s) premises.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.
GREEN AND BEST AGAIN. BEST ON TOP. Some time ago Best rented from Green a lot on Main street, and for his own convenience moved on to the lot a small building, which he placed on loose stones. Green recently notified him not to remove it. Best consulted his attorney, who advised him to pay no attention to the notice, and at the end of his tenancy, he removed the building. Green at once caused his arrest for severing the building from the freehold and removing it. The evidence was heard on Monday before Justice Snow who, this morning, rendered his decision of “not guilty,” as Best had a right to remove the building. Judge Snow further found that the prosecution was without probable cause, and adjudged that Green pay the cost.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 27, 1885.
BAD BOYS. Some mischievous boys roped one of Tony Agler’s little long-eared burros the other night and pulled him up on the flat roof of D. F. Best’s stable, and tied him there. The animal looked very heavenly, but when it came to taking him down, it was hades with a great big H. Tony called in a force and worked for a half day, trying every conceivable plan to keep from crippling the little mule; and at last succeeded, aided by words that put the “cuss-word” vocabulary to shame. Tony swears total annihilation to the first one of those kids he runs across. Bad boys! They ought to be turned over their ma’s lap.
[COWLEY COUNTY DISTRICT COURT.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 27, 1885.
2079. City of Arkansas City versus D F Best, no attorneys.
2136. A H Green versus D F Best et al.
