Harter Brothers Recap

Note: This covers the activities of Louis C., Virgil, Charles L., and David M. Harter. The druggist, J. N. Harter, is in a separate file.
Trying to figure out locations...
T. H. Benning: Starting with 1872...
Winfield Messenger, September 20, 1872.
Every man, woman, and child in Winfield and vicinity is respectfully invited to call and see T. H. Benning’s mammoth stock of dry goods, clothing, boots and shoes, groceries, and provisions.
Location given: Corner of Main Street and Ninth Avenue.
Would his store have been on the Southeast Corner?
Winfield Messenger, October 25, 1872.
Tom Benning keeps all the best brands of flour at the lowest cash prices, at wholesale and retail. Canned fruits of all kinds, pickles, table sauce, tea, coffee, sugar, and in fact everything you want in the grocery line can be had at T. H. Benning’s, corner of Main street and Ninth avenue.
First indication that T. H. Benning was replaced by “Ellis and Black.”...
Winfield Courier, Saturday, January 18, 1873.
New Sign. Ellis & Black, the enterprising successors of T. H. Benning, in the corner store, have ornamented the front of their establishment with a new and neat sign, the workmanship of T. J. Jones.
Ellis, senior partner. They sold dry goods and groceries.
First mention made of Charles Harter...
Winfield Courier, February 20, 1874.      
We walked into Ellis & Black’s last night, as we often do, to borrow a couple of peanuts, when we saw, what we thought at first, were a couple of ghosts; but on close examination we discovered them to be only J. J. Ellis and Charley Harter, who were so exhausted after the enormous sales of the day that they looked like ghosts.
Winfield Courier, September 18, 1874.
DISSOLUTION NOTICE. The partnership heretofore existing between J. J. Ellis and Chas. C. Black is this day dissolved by mutual consent. Chas. C. Black retains the business, assumes all firm debts, and is authorized to collect and receipt for all accounts. All persons knowing themselves indebted to the firm, will please call and settle with him immediately.
J. J. ELLIS, CHAS. C. BLACK. Dated Sept. 14th, 1874.
Winfield Courier, January 6, 1876.
Our “Courier” Patrons.
BLACK, C. C., Merchant, City Councilman, and a “jolly good fellow,” graduated at Hampton College, Rock Island Co., Illinois, and came to Cowley and herded forty “cattle on a thousand hills” during the fall of 1875, engaged in the mercantile business January, 1873, with J. J. Ellis, whom he has since bought out. He now runs his mammoth store, assisted by the clever Charley Harter as chief salesman, and Fred C. Hunt as assistant, singly and alone.
C. L. Harter takes over from Black...

Winfield Courier, March 23, 1876. Don’t spend all your money until you see those new goods of Harter’s at Black’s old stand. They will be here next week.
Harter Brothers appears for the first time...
Cowley County Democrat, Thursday, April 6, 1876.
Look out for the Harter Brothers new stock, it is coming in every day. Dry goods, Groceries, Boots, and Shoes at Charley Black’s old stand.
Name change (Harter Brothers & Baird) to “New York Store.”...
Winfield Courier, June 22, 1876. Attention is called to the new firm of Harter Bro.’s & Baird, of the New York Store. They have added about forty feet of shelving and otherwise improved their store. They are selling their goods as low as the lowest.
A. E. Baird purchases an interest in Harter Brothers store...
Winfield Courier, July 27, 1876. We learn that our much respected friend, A. E. BAIRD, has sold out his store at Elk City and removed to Winfield, where he purchased an interest in the large mercantile house of Harter Brothers. We are well acquainted with Mr. Baird, and know him to be one of the very best businessmen in Kansas, and we heartily congratulate the Harter Brothers upon their good fortune in adding to the firm so valuable and worthy a  member. We also congratulate the people of Winfield and Cowley County upon the addition of so good a merchant and citizen. May you never regret the move you have made, “Gene.”
Louis C. Harter, New York Store, buying fall stock in New York City...
Winfield Courier, September 21, 1876.
MR. HARTER, of the New York Store, is now in New York City buying his fall stock of goods. He is making a very large purchase. He will be home next week at which time the New York will have an “opening day” and these goods will be offered to the public at prices that will defy competition. Mr. Harter’s acquaintance in the east has given him the advantage of buying at low prices; consequently, the goods can be sold at correspondingly reduced figures. Don’t make your fall purchases till you visit the New York Store.
Louis C. Harter, senior member, New York Store, almost killed...
Winfield Courier, September 21, 1876. From the Burlington Patriot, of the 13th, we clip the following. “A week ago today Louis Harter narrowly escaped death on the North Missouri railroad, at the town of Sanisbury. Four or five passenger cars were wrecked, and he lost his hat and had his clothing partially torn off, but escaped without severe injury. Four persons were killed and a number wounded.” That was evidently our Louis Harter, who is now east pur­chasing fall goods for the New York Store.
Winfield Courier, October 12, 1876. BIRTH. Born to Mr. and Mrs. Louis Harter, Friday, the 6th inst., a son. Weight 9 pounds.
Lou Harter, the senior member of the New York Store firm, arrived home last Saturday “right side up with care,” and found another clerk, weighing about ten pounds, bossing the home establishment. Mr. Harter visited St. Louis, Chicago, and New York during his absence, and in those cities purchased an unusual amount of goods especially for this market. His experi­ence in the railroad disaster on the North Missouri is rather amusing. He says he wasn’t hurt much, but he lost a five dollar hat, consequent upon his hair trying to maintain a perpendicular position. He visited the Centennial...
Virgil Harter, New York Store...

Winfield Courier, December 21, 1876. VIRGIL HARTER, of the New York Store, will spend the holi­days with friends in Burlington, Kansas. Secret: he won't be eligible to the Bazique Lodge after the 1st of January. There will probably be two of him after that.
Harter Brothers and A. E. Baird move into Manning’s new brick building.
Winfield Courier, February 24, 1876.
See that fine stone walk in front of Manning and Fuller’s new building—that is to be.
Winfield Courier, June 22, 1876.
Attention is called to the new firm of Harter Bro.’s & Baird, of the New York Store. They have added about forty feet of shelving and otherwise improved their store. They are selling their goods as low as the lowest.
AD: THIS SPACE IS RESERVED FOR HARTER BROS. & BAIRD, Dealers in Everything. At the NEW YORK STORE. [Address not given.]
Winfield Courier, June 29, 1876.
The New York store runs a delivery wagon.
Winfield Courier, August 24, 1876.
MR. MANNING gave employment this week to twenty-three hands and five teams.
Winfield Courier, August 31, 1876.
Mr. Todd, one of the bricklayers on Mr. Manning’s building, was laid up this week by a fall.
Winfield Courier, August 31, 1876.
Col. Manning’s new brick is progressing finely, and will be finished on or about the first of October.
Winfield Courier, September 28, 1876.
The New York Store reports a cash sale of $460 last Saturday.
Winfield Courier, September 28, 1876.
MR. BAIRD, of the New York Store, we understand, has pur­chased the Saffold property and is making sundry valuable im­provements. The house is being repainted and a new barn is being built. He evidently came here to stay.
Winfield Courier, November 16, 1876.
J. F. HYSKELL put a tip-top tin roof upon Manning’s brick building.
Winfield Courier, December 7, 1876.
The New York Store has a new safe.
Winfield Courier, December 21, 1876.
Messrs. Harter Bro. & Baird have moved into Manning’s new brick building. It is the finest storeroom in the Walnut Valley.
Winfield Courier, January 4, 1877.
The New York Store has an illuminated show window curtain.
Winfield Courier, January 11, 1877.
Short is tying up goods at the New York Store.
Harter Brothers sell their interest in the New York Store to brother of A. E. Baird. Name not given. New firm handling store: “Baird & Brother.”...
Winfield Courier, April 5, 1877.
Harter Bro. have sold their interest in the New York Store to a brother of A. E. Baird. The firm is now Baird & Bro.

Harter Brothers and C. C. Harris purchase Tunnel Mills...
Winfield Courier, April 12, 1877.
The Harter Brothers and C. C. Harris, having purchased the Tunnel mills a few days since, will take possession of the same about the first of June.
Winfield Courier, April 12, 1877. The Harter Brothers and C. C. Harris having purchased the Tunnel Mills a few days since, will take possession of the same about the first of June.
Winfield Courier, April 12, 1877. Mr. Harter, father of the Harter brothers of this city, is spending a few days in the city this week, and we learn that he will in a few weeks locate permanently with us.
Winfield Courier, April 12, 1877. The “ad” on the fourth page, as will be noticed, has been changed from Harter Bros. & Baird, to Baird Bros., the Harters having sold their interest in the immense stock of dry goods, groceries, etc., to Mr. W. F. Baird, of Elk City. The latter named gentleman is a young man who has for some time past been in business in Elk City, Montgomery County, and who comes to our midst well recommended, and we therefore recommend him, as also the house with which he is connected, to our readers and the many patrons of the old reliable New York store.
AD: BAIRD BROTHERS, Dealers in EVERYTHING, At the NEW YORK STORE, WINFIELD, KANSAS.
The double quarter column ad. of Harter, Harris & Harter in this week's issue scarcely needs a notice—it speaks for itself. The Tunnel Mills under the new management is daily growing in public favor and it will not be long until it stands at the head of the list in the southwest. The flour turned out cannot be excelled, and as for gentlemanly and fair dealing men, the boys have no superiors in the Walnut Valley.
AD: HURRAH! -FOR- HARTER, HARRIS & HARTER, Proprietors of the Old Reliable
TUNNEL MILLS!
Winfield Courier, May 17, 1877.
The double quarter column ad. of Harter, Harris & Harter in this week’s issue scarcely needs a notice—it speaks for itself. The Tunnel Mills under the new management is daily growing in public favor and it will not be long until it stands at the head of the list in the southwest. The flour turned out cannot be excelled, and as for gentlemanly and fair dealing men, the boys have no superiors in the Walnut Valley.
AD: HURRAH! -FOR- HARTER, HARRIS & HARTER, Proprietors of the Old Reliable
TUNNEL MILLS!
The above named firm is paying the highest cash price for Wheat. They Grind for Cash, They grind for Toll, They grind the best Flour in the Valley. GIVE THEM A TRIAL.
They exchange Flour for Wheat, Flour for Corn, Flour for “Corn in the ear.”
No other Mill in the county offers to do this.
Flour, Meal, Bran and Chop Feed always on hand.
DON’T FORGET THE PLACE! One half mile South of the City.
Winfield Courier, May 24, 1877.
Two hundred head of hogs wanted at the Tunnel Mills; also two yoke of oxen for which the highest cash price will be paid by Harter, Harris & Co.
New York Store...

Winfield Courier, May 24, 1877.
Drs. W. O. Wright and J. L. Williams have formed a partnership. See their card in another column.
CARD: W. O. WRIGHT. J. L. WILLIAMS. Drs. WRIGHT & WILLIAMS, WINFIELD, KANSAS. Consultations together free, and given in connection with a general practice. Special attention given to Surgery, Midwifery, and diseases of Women and Children.
Office upstairs, over New York Store.
Winfield Courier, June 14, 1877.
Dr. Houx has removed his dental office to the office of Wright & Williams upstairs over the New York Store.
J. N. Harter arrives in Winfield...
Winfield Courier, June 21, 1877.
J. N. Harter, brother of our Charley, “lit” down on us the other day, all the way from Ohio. He is now in full charge of Green’s drug store. “Joe” is a druggist of several years experience and will make a popular and efficient salesman.
L. C. Harter & Co....
Winfield Courier, June 21, 1877.
L. C. Harter & Co., are sole agents for the celebrated Pearl Gang and Sulky Plows. They will give you plenty of time to pay for them.
Winfield Courier, July 19, 1877.
If you want to buy a Threshing Machine, come and see L. C. Harter & Co.
Harter Brothers: open store in Wellington...
Winfield Courier, August 2, 1877.
The Harter Brothers of this place have opened a store in Wellington.
Harter Brothers: agricultural implements handled by Crippen...
Winfield Courier, August 2, 1877.
G. H. Crippen, who is handling so many agricultural implements for Harter Bros., was in Kansas City during the strike and threatened riot. He says nothing but the greatest prudence and nerve on the part of law abiding citizens prevented a violent outbreak and that during the last few days the ring leaders of the mob are being quietly picked up by the police and lodged in jail.
Harter, Harris & Co....
Winfield Courier, August 23, 1877.
Harter, Harter & Co. have taken a contract to supply the Cheyenne, Comanches, and Wichita Indians with flour. This will make a home market for a large quantity of wheat and save a large amount of hauling to Wichita.
NOTE: “HARTER, HARRIS & CO.” IS CORRECT...COURIER GOOFED!
Harter Brothers: Buy McMillen & Shields stock, thinking of going into mercantile business again in Winfield...
Winfield Courier, September 6, 1877.
The Harter Brothers have bought out the McMillen & Shields stock and propose to fill up and run the mercantile business again.
Winfield Courier, September 6, 1877.

Last Tuesday the Harter Brothers had their stock of dry goods, groceries, etc., transported from Wellington to this place. They say there is more business done in Winfield in one day than in Wellington in a whole week.
L. C. Harter: Tunnel Mills...
Winfield Courier, September 20, 1877.
L. C. HARTER has gone to Kansas City for a new burr, a wheat duster, and flour packer for the Tunnel Mills.
Winfield Courier, September 27, 1877.
L. C. Harter has returned from Kansas City. He succeeded in purchasing the new machinery wanted for the Tunnel Mills.
Winfield Courier, October 4, 1877.
Harter, Harris & Co. have got their Tunnel Mills well fitted up with new machinery and four run of burrs.
Harter and Wilson: livery stable...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 10, 1877.
Sid. Major holds the patronage of the traveling public, as well as that of the town. Wilson & Harter have lately purchased two fine top buggies at a cost of $300 each, and now take the lead in fancy turn-outs. They have eighteen horses and about a dozen vehicles.
Charley Harter and J. L. M. Hill: livery stable...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 17, 1877. [Winfield Item.] Charley Harter and J. L. M. Hill are now managing the livery formerly owned by Mr. Wilson, and promise to keep up the reputa­tion of the stable by doing as well as heretofore.
Charley Harter begins run to become Sheriff...
Winfield Courier, October 25, 1877.
SHERIFF. Charley Harter, the Democratic nominee, is a good fellow, has no faults except such as are common to Democrats, and would possibly make a good sheriff, therefore it is to be expected that most of the straight unterrified Democrats will support him, but there is no good reason that any Republican or any Democrat who wants the best man elected should vote for him.
Still do not have an address for Baird Brothers, New York Store...
Winfield Courier, October 25, 1877.       
BAIRD BROS., At the New York Store, want 1,000 families to call and examine the largest stock of DRY GOODS, CLOTHING, Boots, Shoes, Hats, Caps, etc., in Cowley County, where everything is sold at Grasshopper Prices. Remember the place. You can save money by buying of us.
Harter Brothers & Co. [Ad shows that they are at the McMillen Stand.]
Winfield Courier, November 1, 1877.
Notice the new advertisement of Harter Bro.’s & Co. This firm is too well and favorably known to need any words of commendation. They are reliable gentlemen, and always mean just what they say. Read their ad and act accordingly. If Virgil Harter cannot suit you with goods and prices, there is no use of trying.
AD: WAR DECLARED! For the next 60 days we will offer GREAT BARGAINS in the prices of DRY GOODS, GROCERIES, BOOTS AND SHOES.

If you want More Goods for Your Money Than can be bought at any other store in Winfield, Go to Harter Bros. & Co., At the McMillen Stand.
[Note: I thought McMillen was the last one who was in the Old Log Store. Most confusing!]
Harter wins election to be Sheriff...
Winfield Courier, November 8, 1877.
The result of the late election so far as the offices of sheriff and county clerk are concerned is a republican defeat. The causes of this are quite apparent. In the first place the successful candidates, M. G. Troup and Charley Harter, are well known all over the county and their well known affability and obliging dispositions have made them extremely popular everywhere. In the next place Capt. Hunt and Mr. Lippman were not so widely known, but that electioneering lies told against them had considerable effect.
Total Cast for Harter and Lippman: 1,103 for Harter; 1,020 for Lippman.
Majority [Harter over Lippman]: 88.
Creswell: 23 Harter, 20 Lippman.
Bolton East: 23 Harter, 16 Lippman.
Bolton West: 5 Harter, 23 Lippman.
Winfield: 333 Harter, 168 Lippman.
Dr. Emerson’s office over “New York Store” (Manning’s brick). Still do not have address.
Winfield Courier, November 22, 1877.
CARD. G. EMERSON, M. D., Physician and Surgeon.
Office over New York Store (Manning’s brick.) Residence, corner 11th and Fuller Street. (Robinson house.)
Harter Brothers Co....
Winfield Courier, November 29, 1877.
Mr. Lew. Carr, cousin of W. M. Allison, formerly of Chetopa, this state, is at present clerking for Harter Bro.’s Co.
Harter & Hill: livery stable on Main Street...
Winfield Courier, November 29, 1877.
Harter & Hill are putting a 42 foot addition to the rear of their livery stable on Main street. The boys are doing a good business.
Manning starts new brick building (50 by 100 ft., two stories high). Location not given...
Winfield Courier, November 29, 1877.
Col. Manning commenced work on the cellar for his new brick building. The building will be fifty feet front by one hundred feet deep, two stories high.
Harter & Hill: livery barn addition...
Winfield Courier, December 6, 1877.
The new addition to Harter & Hill’s livery barn is 42 feet long instead of 30 feet, as stated last week.
Manning’s corner brick building...
Winfield Courier, January 10, 1878.

Messrs. McBride and Green, who made the brick for Mr. Manning’s corner brick building, have also the contract for making this season 120,000 bricks for his big block.
C. L. Harter, Sheriff...
Winfield Courier, January 17, 1878.
C. L. Harter, the new Sheriff, has gracefully and quietly assumed the office and its duties; Mr. Haight, the new surveyor, is also installed in his office without display; E. P. Kinne and M. G. Troup succeeded their predecessors without much trouble and the county offices are ready for the business of the term.
Winfield Courier, January 24, 1878.
J. L. M. Hill and J. H. Finch are the deputies our new sheriff has appointed. We think he has made good selections.
Manning Hall...
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1878.
MILLINGTON & LEMMON, PUBLISHERS.
[From the Kansas City Journal of Commerce.]
CENTRAL HOTEL, WINFIELD, KANSAS, February 13, 1878.
Among the business houses now building or just completed are a brewery, a two-story brick billiard hall, a foundry and machine shop, and Manning Hall, a two-story brick block, 60 x 100 feet, the lower story for stores. Two handsome iron bridges have also spanned the Walnut River since my visit last fall, making three bridges across the river within a mile of town.
L. C. Harter: takes cattle out west on Santa Fe...
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1878.
L. C. Harter returned Saturday from a trip up west on the Santa Fe road, where he went with a lot of cattle. He reports lively times there on account of the presence of a large number of immigrants and visitors.
New York Store...
Winfield Courier, March 7, 1878.
Mr. Baird, of the firm of Baird Bros., at the New York store, started East Monday morning to purchase their spring stock of goods. They expect to bring on a large stock and are said to be close buyers, and will have a splendid line of dress goods, notions, trimmings, etc. Parties will do well to wait for their grand opening before buying elsewhere.
Harter Brothers...
Winfield Courier, March 14, 1878.
Harter Bro.’s & Co. have a new stock of groceries on the way.
Harter, Harris & Co. send cattle...
Winfield Courier, March 14, 1878.
Harter, Harris & Co. sent 21 yoke of cattle to Pawnee Rock and Larned on Monday morning.
A. D. Speed replaces J. L. M. Hill: Harter & Speed new name of livery...
Winfield Courier, April 25, 1878.

A. D. Speed has bought the interest of J. L. M. Hill in the livery business of Harter & Hill. The new firm will be Harter & Speed. They will continue to improve their livery stock and will add to the present array of nobby outfits.
Manning: two-story brick, will be a public hall with stores...
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 25, 1878.
[Special Correspondence Kansas City Times.]
WINFIELD, KANSAS, APRIL 10.
A large number of good business houses have been built since my last visit here, among which is the fine two-story store by W. H. H. Maris, and occupied by the leading dry goods house of Winfield, Lynn & Gillelen. Also, a large, fine brick hotel, kept by Frank Williams; a large two-story brick by E. C. Manning, who is building a fine public hall, with stores. There is a great demand for business rooms in Winfield, and money could be invested to a good advantage here in putting up buildings. There is an inexhaustible supply of the magnesian limestone, which is equally quarried and which is admirably adapted to building purposes or for flagging. The streets of Winfield are being paved with this splendid stone, giving them a decidedly metropolitan air. Since my last visit two fine churches, the Methodist and Presbyterian, have been built.
West of Manning’s block: Shenneman & Millspaugh livery stable...
Winfield Courier, April 25, 1878.
Messrs. Shenneman & Millspaugh have opened a new livery stable just west of Manning’s block.
Harter & Hill, two doors south of Central Hotel, Main Street...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 1, 1878.
LIVERY, FEED & SALE STABLE. Two doors south of Central Hotel, Main Street, Winfield, Kans. Harter & Hill, Proprietors. Horses bought and sold. First-class turn-outs furnished on short notice, with or without driver. Horses boarded by day or week. Charges reasonable.
C. H. Robinson (and Mosley), office with Manning in Manning’s Block [Corner Main Street and Ninth Avenue, upstairs...
Winfield Courier, May 2, 1878.
Borrowers will do well to call on Mr. C. H. Robinson whose card “Money to loan” appears in this issue. Mr. Robinson is a gentleman and has many warm friends in Leavenworth and Independence, where he has resided.
AD: MONEY TO LOAN. I am prepared to loan money on improved farm property in Cowley and Sumner Counties, in sums of not less than Three Hundred Dollars, on as good or better terms than ever offered heretofore. Persons wanting to borrow money will do well to call on C. H. ROBINSON, at office of E. C. Manning, Esq., in Manning’s Block, Winfield, Kansas.
The Daily Winfield Courier, Saturday Morning, May 11, 1878.
Robinson & Mosley removed to Manning’s Block, corner Main St. and 9th Avenue, upstairs.
Harter Brothers: sell stock of goods on Main Street to Kimball...
Winfield Courier, May 23, 1878.

Harter Brothers have sold out their stock of goods on Main Street to O. E. Kimball, of Oxford, who will continue the business at the old stand. Mr. Kimball is represented as an excellent businessman.
L. C. Harter...
Winfield Courier, May 30, 1878.
Last Saturday evening L. C. Harter was returning from Wellington in a two-horse buggy. When about three miles west of Oxford, two men presented themselves in the road and stopped his team suddenly; but Harter hit one of the horses with his whip and the team sprang forward, knocking down one of the footpads, and running away from them, leaving them defeated in the road.
Putting in information about J. A. Earnest building that I found...
Winfield Courier, June 27, 1878.
Mr. Earnest is about to open a grocery, flour, and feed store in the room formerly occupied by Harter Brothers.
Winfield Courier, November 17, 1881.
J. A. Earnest has removed to the new and commodious brick building on the site of his old stand.
Cowley County Courant, November 17, 1881.
Mr. J. A. Earnest, one of Winfield’s substantial and enter­prising grocers, has just moved into the new brick building, north of Sam Myton’s hardware establishment, and is getting fixed up nicely.
Winfield Courier, April 20, 1882.
Dr. Davis has his office on Main Street once more—over Earnest’s store.
Winfield Courier, September 14, 1882.
Frank Howland has charge of the freight department at the K. C., L. & S. Depot in place of J. E. Snow, resigned. J. E. now holds forth at Earnest’s grocery.
Winfield Courier, September 28, 1882.
For Sale by J. A. Earnest, one House and Lot and one Parlor and Bedroom set of Furniture. Inquire at one door north of Myton’s Hardware Store J. A. EARNEST.
Winfield Courier, November 16, 1882.
Messrs. Tomlinson [Tomlin] & Webb, a couple of gentlemen from Nebraska, have purchased John Earnest’s grocery store, and took charge last Wednesday. Mr. Earnest intends removing to Kansas City.
Years later the following article appeared relative to J. A. Earnest...
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 25, 1886.
We notice in the Washington (D. C.) Post the announcement of the death of John A. Earnest, on the 13th inst. Mr. Earnest was formerly in Winfield, where he did a grocery business for several years, and was well known here as a careful businessman. He left here for Kansas City, where he went into the grocery business. Being in ill health he went to Topeka, and from there to Washington, D. C., last summer. Capt. T. B. Myers was on the train with him and his wife at that time. On the way he was worse and became insane, since which time we have heard but little concerning him.
                                                                      —
Winfield Courier, June 27, 1878.
Real Estate Transfers.

C. L. Harter, sheriff to Jay Page, lot 9, block 128, Winfield, $475.
Susan J. Ford to Jay Page, lot 9, block 128, Winfield, $1.
Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.
Mrs. Jay Page attempted to kill L. J. Webb on last Saturday evening. Webb had just been released from jail on bail, and in company with Sheriff Harter, H. E. Asp, and R. L. Walker, was walking from the jail west toward Main Street along the sidewalk, and when passing the house of B. M. Terrell, Mrs. Page ran out of the back door with a large revolver in her hand and passing along the west side of the house toward Webb, attempted to get a range on Webb to shoot him, at the same time using violent and threatening language. Sheriff Harter and R. L. Walker were between Mrs. Page and Webb, and under their cover Webb ran and escaped. R. L. Walker made some remark and Mrs. Page turned on and threatened him.
SHERIFF HARTER’S STATEMENT. When I went to the jail to release Webb, I passed B. M. Terrill’s house. Mrs. Page was sitting on the front door-step with her feet on the sidewalk and Terrill was sitting in a chair just behind her in the house. When I returned with Webb, Terrill was sitting on the door-step with his feet on the sidewalk and a woman was sitting behind him in the chair. I do not know if it was Mrs. Page. As we came along the sidewalk, Webb was on the left of me, the side next to Terrill’s house. Just before we reached the door, I went to Webb’s left side and walked between him and the door. I did this to prevent a collision, which I thought possible. No woman attempted to come out the front door; but as I appeared between Webb and the door, a woman rushed back through the house. I heard her retiring steps and the noise of her dress distinctly. As we passed the northwest corner of the house, I saw Mrs. Page coming from the back door. I told Webb to “git,” and kept between him and Mrs. Page. She rushed up to within six or eight feet of me with a revolver aimed at me. I threw up my arm and said, “Don’t shoot me.” She called Webb a cowardly, dirty stinker, and talked in an excited manner, but I do not think she used other profane or vulgar language. Webb soon got out of her range, and R. L. Walker, who had been close behind us, said, “Don’t.” She said, “You are as bad as he is and I will fix you too if you interfere,” or words to that effect. Walker kept his arm up and moved rapidly away until we reached the post office, when she turned and went back into the house.
[NOTE: LAST PARAGRAPH SHOWS “TERRILL” RATHER THAN TERRELL.]
MRS. PAGE’S STATEMENT. I intended to kill Webb and would have done so if I could have shot without hitting someone else. I will do it yet if he does not keep out of my way. It was not right to have
Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.
Real Estate Transfers.
C. L. Harter, sheriff, to John B. Lynn, ½ of lot 6, block 87, Winfield, $234.
C. L. Harter, sheriff, to J. W. Curns, lot 22, block 129, Winfield, $156.
C. L. Harter, sheriff, to W. S. Mendenhall, lot 21, block 129, Winfield.
C. L. Harter, sheriff, to W. M. Boyer, lots 11 and 12, block 135, Winfield; $48.
C. L. Harter, sheriff, to Richard D. Johnson, lot 304, e. ½ of sw. ¼, 19-30-5; $327.
L. C. Harter...
Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.

Lew Harter has started down the river for Little Rock to bring up steamers to load with wheat and flour.
Winfield Courier, August 1, 1878.
Real Estate Transfers.
C. L. Harter, sheriff, to A. J. Pyburn, se. 30-34-5.
C. L. Harter, sheriff, to A. H. Green, lots 7, 10, 5, and 12 in blocks 92, 135, and 136, Winfield, $115.
C. L. Harter, sheriff, to E. S. Bedilion, lot 9, block 116, Winfield; $8.
C. L. Harter, sheriff, to John W. Curns, lot 5, block 87, Winfield; $8.
C. L. Harter, sheriff, to John C. Allen, lots 8 and 9, block 115, Winfield; $13.
L. C. Harter...
Winfield Courier, August 1, 1878.
                                                 Navigation of the Arkansas.
L. C. Harter returned from Little Rock last Saturday evening. We have since interviewed him and now give his account of the trip. He went from Arkansas City to Little Rock down the Arkansas River on the “Aunt Sally” in twelve days. Some three or four days of this time was spent in laying up and delays which were not necessary had the boat desired to make the trip in as short a time as possible. The boat went down without any load because the captain had doubts about being able to get through with any loading. The channel was very erratic and difficult to trace. Many times in following what appeared to be the main channel, the boat traced the windings until it ran onto the sand in water not more than six or eight inches deep. They then had to work off and return upstream until they found a better “shute.” In each case, however, they succeeded in finding a passage with at least 20 inches of water. The mode of hunting for the best channel was by getting off the boat and wading. Mr. Harter relates some of his exploits in that line. He thinks the main difficulties of taking down a load at this stage of the water are the snags, which are somewhat dangerous. The sand is not very troublesome, for when they run on a bar they usually work off by the use of the cable and wheel in 15 or 20 minutes. He thinks that if the stage of water was still lower, the channel would be better, more distinctly marked, and much more easily traced than it was when he went down. The “Aunt Sally” did not come up early enough. Had she come up two weeks earlier, she might have returned with a good load. She is far from being the kind of a boat that should come up here. She draws too much water and is in other ways unsuitable.

Mr. Harter thinks that a boat constructed like one he saw on the river named the “Big Rock” would be much better. It is about 120 feet long and wide in proportion, with engine and machinery on the bottom. He believes such a boat could run up to Arkansas City and take good loads both ways for three or four months in the year. It will draw 10 ½ inches light and 18 inches loaded. At present it would be difficult to get boats of that class to come up to Arkansas City, were the stage of water ever so good, because they are engaged in the cotton trade on the river below. After awhile the large boats will be up and take this trade from them; and then if the stage of water is right, they will doubtless be glad to come up. Mr. Harter is of the opinion that a steamer of the class he speaks of as the best for this trade could tow six or seven barges, each loaded with about 30 tons, and at the same time carry 50 tons itself. He says that the Little Rock millers and some steamboat men estimated that a stock company with $14,000 capital could get up and run such a fleet and make it pay. To insure business and interest in the project, they would require that one-third of the stock should be taken in this vicinity; and if that was done, they would venture the other two-thirds. The Little Rock millers will agree to take all the wheat that such a fleet can bring down at ten cents a bushel higher prices than is paid at St. Louis at the same time. If the fleet could make six trips a year, it could take off half a million bushels. Should it only take 300,000 bushels, it would be wonderful help to the farmers of Cowley. The present price of wheat at Little Rock is 95 cents; corn, 65 cents. Mr. Harter fears that Pruden’s flat-boat will not get through and that they will suffer loss. He thinks it would be safer to load a flat-boat with flour because if they should get stuck, there is a market for flour at various places all the way down, the flour could be readily removed from the boat at almost any place and sold, while wheat would be a loss. Mr. Harter returned by railroad via St. Louis. He is enthusiastic for river navigation and thinks it will be made a success.
Winfield Courier, September 12, 1878.
L. C. Harter, of the firm of Harter Bros., extensive mill owners of Winfield, Cowley County, is in the city buying machinery for their mill from the Great Western Foundry Company. They have a fine mill, and besides doing a large local business, are busily filling Government Indian contracts. They are live businessmen, and well deserve the success that attends them. Leavenworth Times.
Harter, Harris & Co....
Winfield Courier, November 21, 1878.
Fatal Accident. DIED. A young man late from Illinois named George Bailey recently took a contract of Harter, Harris & Co. to excavate the earth at the mouth of the tunnel at the Tunnel Mills. While engaged at this work last Monday the perpendicular bank of earth above him slid off and fell on him, crushing him down and burying him five feet deep. Before the earth could be removed from him, life was extinct. He had noticed the first symptom of the slide and started to run from under but did not succeed. Another man at work with him was more fortunate. He was pushed over and buried up to his waist but not injured.
Harter Brothers...
Winfield Courier, January 9, 1879.
C. C. Harris has leased his interest in the Tunnel Mills to the Harter Bros. Mr. Harris is now a “gentleman of leisure” and will spend his time doctoring his ears, which he had the misfor­tune to freeze one day last week.
Winfield Courier, February 13, 1879.
The Tunnel Mills has had another change in its management, Virgil Harter having traded his interest in it to his father for town property in Burlington, Kansas, where he will soon remove. We will be sorry to lose Mr. Harter, as he is one of our best men.
J. L. Horning leases a half interest in Tunnel Mill. New Name: Harter & Horning...
Winfield Courier, May 29, 1879.

J. L. Horning has leased a half interest in the above mill, and it will hereafter be run under the firm name of Harter & Horning. Mr. Horning came here about one year ago and engaged in the grocery business. He had a heavy competition and a poor location and people slyly wagged their heads and prophesied “a bust” in the grocery line. But “76 Horning” didn’t come to bust, and he didn’t bust. Six months from that time Horning’s delivery wagon made daily visits to the houses of these same gentlemen who prophesied the “bust,” and Horning was doing the grocery business of the town. We don’t intend this as a “puff,” but as a plain statement of facts. All that has been needed to make the Tunnel mill one of the best in the country is some good, practical hand at the helm. Mr. Horning’s twenty years experience in the milling business, and his characteristic “get up and get” mode of running things peculiarly adapts him for the business, and we expect to see the Tunnel mills flour quoted all over the State before a year.
Horning & Harter: All sorts of changes...
Winfield Courier, July 31, 1879.
Messrs. Horning & Harter have purchased the Hitchcock building next to McGuire’s store and will fit it up for a flour and feed store.
Winfield Courier, July 31, 1879.
Messrs. Horning & Harter contemplate erecting a large building on the property recently owned by Mr. Hitchcock to be used as a flour and feed store.
Winfield Courier, August 21, 1879.
Messrs. Horning & Harter have moved the building off their lot next to McGuire’s store and will immediately begin the erection of a stone and brick building thereon. They expect to complete it in October, when it will be occupied by a grocery store and the Tunnel Mills offices.
Winfield Courier, August 21, 1879.
We were pleased to meet last week Mr. R. M. Snyder, who has purchased the grocery store of Mr. J. L. Horning. Mr. Snyder is a pleasant and intelligent young man, has had years of experience as a grocer, and we think will keep No. 76 in the front rank as a grocery house.
He has leased the new building to be erected by Horning & Harter and expects to occupy it in October.
C. L. Harter sells his interest in livery stable of Harter & Speed to Moffitt...
Winfield Courier, August 21, 1879.
Mr. John Moffitt has purchased Charley Harter’s interest in the livery stable of Harter & Speed. Mr. Moffitt will make a popular liveryman.
Horning & Harter; Hitchcock; Tarrant...
Winfield Courier, September 4, 1879.
Further down the street on the opposite side, Messrs. Horning & Harter, our enterprising millers, are erecting a brick and stone building, 25 x 60, 2 stories high, with a basement, which will be occupied some time in October; the lower story by R. M. Snyder’s grocery store, and the upper as offices for the mill. This lot they purchased some time since from Mr. Hitch­cock, for $600.
Winfield Courier, September 11, 1879.
The litigation over the title to the old Tarrant property was decided at the last term of court, giving the property to Mr. Hitchcock; but Mr. Tarrant, with the characteristic grit of a “down easter,” still persisted in “holding the fort,” in defiance of law, order, and the decrees of the court, until Saturday, when Sheriff Harter brought matters to a crisis by lifting Mr. Tarrant into the street. We understand that Mr. Tarrant will again take his grievances before the court.

Winfield Courier, September 11, 1879.
The litigation over the title to the old Tarrant property was decided at the last term of court, giving the property to Mr. Hitchcock; but Mr. Tarrant, with the characteristic grit of a “down easter,” sill persisted in “holding the fort,” in defiance of law, order, and the decrees of the court, until Saturday, when Sheriff Harter brought matters to a crisis by lifting Mr. Tarrant into the street. We understand that Mr. Tarrant will again take his grievances before the court.
Am skipping all the articles about C. L. Harter being chosen by the Democrats to run again for Sheriff and the dirty campaign that followed. He was defeated! Have one amusing item though...
Winfield Courier, October 23, 1879.
A good joke is told on Charley Harter about the Arkansas City bank robbery. After the news had arrived, Charley met Burt Covert on the crossing of Main street and Ninth Avenue, his face pale and hair disheveled, and grabbing him by the arm, said: “B___; B __Burt; Read’s Bank has been robbed; five hun__hundred dollars reward, get Dick Walker and go after them quick.” Burt and Dick went after them while Charley, after his “excitement” had subsided, learned that it was Arkansas City, instead of Winfield, that had been raided, and immediately took steps to capture them if they came within two blocks of Main street.
Harter & Horning: new building...
Winfield Courier, October 30, 1879.
The new building of Harter & Horning, on south Main Street, is nearly completed.
Harter & Horning...
Winfield Courier, November 20, 1879.
Last Sunday Mr. Ex. Saint. started for New Mexico in the interest of Harter & Horning, and will place Winfield flour and feed on the western market. Harter & Horning are enterprising men, and if the people of New Mexico must be fed by Kansas, they propose to have a hand in the matter.
C. L. Harter to take over Central Hotel...
Winfield Courier, November 27, 1879.
Next Monday the Central Hotel changes hands, Mr. Vance retiring, and Mr. Harter taking his place. The new firm will be Majors & Harter. The house is to be enlarged and remodeled; and if completed under the proposed plan, will be one of the most commodious hotels in the country.
Harter & Horning...
Winfield Courier, December 11, 1879.
Last Saturday evening Mr. Ex Saint returned from his western trip, where he has been in the interest of Harter & Horning. While absent he sold over eighteen car loads of flour and refused orders for twenty cars which the mill was unable to furnish. He brings back glowing reports of Las Vegas and New Mexico in general.
Winfield Courier, January 29, 1880.
Harter & Horning have put a first-class elevator in their store room for the benefit of R. M. Snyder, the “south end” grocer.
Winfield Courier, March 25, 1880.

Mr. G. W. Ellsberry, of Mason City, has purchased the building now occupied by Snyder’s grocery, from Harter & Horning, for $2,725, and the lot next to it for $1,000. The sale was made through Curns & Manser.
Harter Brothers...
Winfield Courier, April 8, 1880.
Harter Bros. are repairing their store and “brushing up” for the spring trade.
Harter and Major sell Central Hotel to A. H. Doane...
Winfield Courier, April 29, 1880.
Majors & Harter have sold the Central Hotel to Mr. A. H. Doane. He takes possession May 1st. Mr. Doane is one of our largest property owners and a son-in-law of W. L. Mullen.
C. L. Harter and Robert Hudson: Excerpts pertaining to the Big Fire...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 5, 1880.
Immediately east of the furniture store [of Fred Leuschen] stood two frame dwellings, which it was impossible to save. They were owned by Messrs. C. L. Harter and Robert Hudson. The furniture being all carried out, these gentlemen sustained no great loss except that of the buildings.
Central Hotel: Harter & Majors had just completed the sale of this hotel to Mr. A. H. Doane, of Danville, Illinois; but as the transfer had not yet been made, the loss falls upon the old proprietors. The old part of the Central Hotel was owned by Jas. Jenkins, of Wisconsin. The new part of the Central Hotel was owned by Majors & Harter. They had sold out to A. H. Doane, and were to have given possession Saturday morning.
C. L. Harter, tenant dwelling, loss $300; no insurance. Tenant had no loss except damage.
Central Hotel, Majors & Harter portion: loss to building, $2,500; insurance, $2,100, as follows: Weschester, Springfield Fire & Marine and Hartford, $700 each. [Their insurance was on building and furniture.]  The loss of Majors & Harter in excess of their insurance will be upwards of $3,000.
C. L. Harter and Brettun...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 9, 1880.
Charley Harter, ex-sheriff of Cowley County, was in town Friday afternoon, having brought down Mr. Brettun, who was on a tour of inspection through this part of the country.
C. L. Harter...
Winfield Courier, March 17, 1881.
Mr. C. L. Harter, of Winfield, and Miss Annie Davis, of Hamilton, Ohio, were married Tuesday afternoon.
Mrs. L. C. Harter dies...
Winfield Courier, April 14, 1881.
Mrs. Lou Harter breathed her last Sunday morning. She was buried Monday afternoon, the funeral services being conducted at the Methodist church. Mrs. Harter was attacked some time ago with that dreadful disease, consumption, and failed very rapidly, although everything that human hands could do was done to save her. She leaves three small children and many relatives and friends to mourn her death.
C. L. Harter...
Winfield Courier, April 14, 1881.

We have heard it rumored that Chas. Harter would take the Brettun House. Charley is the most popular landlord in the country, and could run this magnificent hotel better any anyone we know of. We hope he will take it.
Winfield Courier, July 28, 1881.
We peeped into the Brettun House Monday. Charley and Mrs. Harter, with a corps of lady assistants, are busy making the sheets, pillow cases, and linen for the establishment. It requires nearly a carload.
Winfield Courier, August 11, 1881.
We hope the two Charlies, Black and Harter, will not adver­tise the Brettun as a first class hotel. These are getting too common. Advertise it as the only second class hotel in the United States. This will be something new and the first fellows who have lived so long at first class hotels want a change.
[THE BRETTUN.]
Winfield Courier, August 18, 1881.
This hotel, the finest in the state, was opened to the public last Wednesday by Messrs. Harter & Black. They have furnished the house elegantly from top to bottom. Last Thursday evening the gas in all the rooms was turned on and the barber shop and billiard rooms were lit up. The sight was an imposing one and the magnificent building looked like a marble palace. Here can be found every comfort that the traveling public could desire. Pleasant rooms, good beds, gas and water, bath rooms, billiard hall, barber shop, telegraph office, a splendidly set table, and promenades, parlors, and verandas in abundance. Harry Bahntge is running the billiard room and Nommsen & Steuven the barber shop and bath rooms. The bath rooms are cool and pleas­ant, and furnished in good style and fitted with hot and cold showers.
David M. Harter...
Winfield Courier, August 10, 1882. Tuesday afternoon Mr. Dave Harter and Miss Josie McMasters were married. The affair was a great surprise to their friends. It burst over us like a cyclone, having never heard a suspicion of such evil intent from either of the parties. The young couple have our best wishes and those of a hundred other friends.
C. L. Harter: Buys C. C. Black’s interest in Brettun...
Winfield Courier, December 7, 1882. Charlie Harter has purchased C. C. Black’s interest in the Brettun House and is now the sole landlord of that excellent institution.
C. L. Harter...
Winfield Courier, March 22, 1883.
Dr. Emerson has purchased a new buggy—the one Charlie Harter had imported.
Winfield Courier, March 22, 1883.
The Council had a lively time on Monday evening with an ordinance letting the Brettun House block out of the fire limits. Charley Harter had erected an ice house to which Dorley, the carriage maker, objected, claiming that it added to his insurance rate. He had Harter up before the police court, so the matter was brought to the Council for adjustment. Holders of eight out of the twelve lots in the block were in favor of letting Harter have his ice house,  so the matter was laid over till next meeting with the understanding that the suits be dropped and it be then passed.

[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]
Winfield Courier, March 29, 1883.
The Mayor stated that he would, with the consent of the council, remit the fine assessed by the Police Judge against C. L. Harter for a violation of the ordinance relating to erection of buildings of combustible material, for the reason that the erection was an ice house necessary for the use of the hotel operated by Mr. Harter. On motion, the Council consented to such remission by an affirmative vote of the three Councilmen present.
On motion the Council adjourned. M. G. TROUP, Mayor.
[At this point I quit covering the Harter Brothers. Began to concentrate on other people involved with buildings in Winfield. I still think Manning built two buildings before he constructed the Opera House. MAW]
Backtracking: Starting with 1880.
Winfield Courier, October 14, 1880.
Most of the early settlers of this county knew Frank Hunt as our first sheriff and the original hardware merchant on the premises now occupied by S. H. Myton in Winfield.
Winfield Courier, May 5, 1881.
Editor Millington thought that S. H. Myton first occupied the lot on which Brown & Son built new drug store...
Cowley County Courant, April 20, 1882.
Dr. Davis has moved his office into the room upstairs, just south of the telephone central office, in Myton’s new building.
Myton purchases 3 lots where Lagonda House stood for $2,700. Will build big building, 50 by 90 ft, two-stories high...
Winfield Courier, April 5, 1883.
S. H. Myton has purchased the three lots where the old Lagonda House stood for $2,700 and will at once erect a mammoth building thereon to be used as an implement warehouse and sales room. He will make the building about 50 x 90 and two stories. It will make a building about the size of the opera house. Sam has the right kind of grit and enterprise. His business long ago outgrew his present quarters and has spread all over the vacant lots in the vicinity. He will now get all the implement business together under one roof.
Winfield Courier, December 6, 1883.
TOMLIN & WEBB, Myton Block, 5 doors north Post Office.
Winfield Courier, March 20, 1884.
I have recently opened a first-class GROCERY & QUEENSWARE STORE,
      In the building formerly occupied by Tomlin & Webb.
Remember the place—first door north of Myton’s. JOHN C. LONG.
Myton store on corner opposite Lynn’s store...
Winfield Courier, April 10, 1884.
S. H. Myton will commence, as soon as men can be got to do it, the excavation for a large two story brick and stone business house for his own use, on his corner opposite Lynn’s store. The plans indicate that this is to be one of the best buildings in the city.
Myton store: stone, 75 by 90 ft., two stories, $20,000...

Winfield Courier, April 24, 1884.
S. H. Myton has commenced the excavation for his new block on the corner opposite Lynn’s. The plans, just turned out by Architect Cook, indicate that this is to be one of the finest business buildings in the city. It will be entirely of cut stone, 75 x 90, two stories. The first story will contain two rooms, one 25 feet wide, and the other 50, the first to be occupied by Mr. Myton’s general hardware stock and the second by his agricultural implements. Jim Conner has the stone work contract and agrees to finish it in ninety days. The building will cost about twenty thousand dollars.
C. L. Harter...
Winfield Courier, December 11, 1884.
Charley Harter will soon commence the erection of two fine business buildings on his lots north of Myton’s new block.
Myton...
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 1, 1885.
New Building: Corner of Main Street and 8th Avenue...
S. H. Myton. The Mammoth Hardware Dealer.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 1, 1885.
Ever since the COURIER first tooted its little horn the hardware house has been represented in its columns. Mr. Myton came to Cowley in 1871 and this business has grown from a small beginning to one of proportions unexcelled by any hardware and implement house in the State. Some years ago he erected the substantial brick he now occupies, but after building on as much as possible, he found the building yet too small for his immense and growing business. Last year he commenced the erection of the fine cut stone block on the corner of 8th Avenue and Main, where he is now nearing completion and is one of the most imposing ornaments in the business part of the city. Its cost is over twenty thousand dollars and when Mr. Myton gets his mammoth stock on that eighteen thousand square feet of floor it will be a showing fit to tickle the pride of any city, and especially the man who has had the ability, business tact, and energy to accomplish such results. He will occupy the whole building; three rooms on each floor, 2 x 80. Elevators run from the basement to the third floor and everything is arranged with especial conveniences for his business. Mr. Myton has certainly grown with Cowley; and, like her, his growth has been through worthy and deserved popularity.
                [Paper had 2 x 80 feet for each room. This does not seem correct! MAW]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 19, 1885.
S. H. Myton is this week removing his immense hardware and implement stock to his handsome new building on north Main. When he gets “fixed up,” his establishment will stand superior to any of its kind in Kansas. J. C. Long will occupy the room vacated by Mr. Myton, while S. Kleeman will occupy the room Mr. Long leaves.
Note: The New York Store [Baird Brothers] did not have many items in the paper. I finally found the following, which might explain the situation.
Baird Brothers...
Winfield Courier, December 2, 1880.

Baird Bros. bought the full Williams & Jettinger stock of goods for $7,750 cash. They sold out the groceries to J. A. Earnest. It is considered that this will pay off the chattel mortgages and 67 percent on the other liabilities of the late firm.