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R. S. Wilson

                                                                 Winfield.
[Note: R. S. Wilson was a partner of A. D. Hendricks in a hardware store in Winfield, arriving in Winfield in 1879. Other than some brief references to Mr. Wilson, most of the data on him concerns the period when he was a City Councilman. The first twenty-six pages or so are devoted to coverage of all the “City Council” meetings in which Wilson was involved under Mayor Troup. After that come more pages covering R. S. Wilson, City Councilman, under Mayor Emerson. Hendricks & Wilson hardware store activities will be found in the file covering A. D. Hendricks.]
WINFIELD 1880:
R. S. Wilson, 37; spouse, Hannah, 31.
                                               FROM THE NEWSPAPERS.
HENDRICKS & WILSON...
Winfield Courier, March 13, 1879.
We were pleased to meet, last Tuesday, Messrs. Hendricks & Wilson, from Pleasant Hill, Mo., who will open a hardware store in the building just south of Mrs. Stump’s millinery store. They are very pleasant gentlemen and we are glad to welcome them to Winfield as their future home. Their goods are now on the way, and they expect to open in a few days.
Winfield Courier, March 20, 1879.
Messrs. Hendricks & Wilson, of Pleasant Hill, Mo., have opened a new hardware store on Main street, south of the Williams House. They are live, enterprising men, and will undoubtedly do a good business.
                                                        Hendricks & Wilson,
                                                               -Dealers In-
                                                             HARDWARE,
                                         4TH DOOR SOUTH OF HORNING’S,
                                                           Winfield, Kansas.
We have opened a Large, New and Complete Stock of HARDWARE, which we intend to sell at the Lowest Reasonable Rates FOR CASH.
We have on hand a full line of Wagon Woodwork, Shelf, and Builder’s Hardware.
Winfield Courier, March 27, 1879.
The following is a list of the principal business firms of Winfield.
                                                            HARDWARE.
S. H. Myton.
J. T. Weston.
H. Jochems.
Hendricks & Wilson.
Winfield Courier, April 3, 1879.
Messrs. Hendricks & Wilson, proprietors of the new hardware store on south Main street, are putting in new shelving and getting ready to receive additions to their stock, which are now on the road.
Winfield Courier, April 24, 1879.

Mr. Wilson, of the firm of Hendricks & Wilson, returned last week, bringing with him his own family and that of Mr. Hendricks.
Winfield Courier, May 1, 1879.
Mr. George Gully is building a neat residence on his lot, back of Hendricks & Wilson’s hardware store.
Winfield Courier, May 1, 1879.

Hendricks & Wilson are fixing up their storeroom preparatory to receiving a large invoice of stoves. They intend, in a short time, to run a tinshop in connection with their hardware business.
Winfield Courier, May 22, 1879.
The Taggart building, opposite Hendricks & Wilson’s hardware store, has been rented for a grocery store.
Winfield Courier, June 19, 1879.
Mr. M. J. Wallis has purchased the Gully building, now being occupied by Hendricks & Wilson, for $1200.
Winfield Courier, July 31, 1879.
Messrs. Hendricks & Wilson, whose ad appears today, are gentlemen of energy and character and have, in their short business course at this place, won many friends. They are building up a fine trade.
AD: HENDRICKS & WILSON, Dealers in Shelf & Heavy Hardware, Stoves and Tinware, Wagon Woodwork, Carpenter Tools and Black­smith Tools.
SOUTH MAIN STREET, 4 DOORS SOUTH OF 76 HORNING 76, WINFIELD.
Winfield Courier, December 4, 1879.
Mr. W. L. Moorehouse has some fine business lots to dispose of in the “Hill Block.” See his ad.
AD: FOR SALE, THE “HILL BLOCK,” in any quantity to suit the purchaser. Also acre and half acre lots located at the South end of Main street. Terms easy and prices low.
                                                     W. L. MOOREHOUSE.
                                                           Winfield, Kansas.
                                   Inquire at Hendricks & Wilson’s hardware store.
Winfield Courier, December 4, 1879.
Mr. W. L. Moorehouse has purchased the lot on the corner of Main street and 10th avenue from C. A. Bliss for $1200. He will very soon commence the erection of a two story brick building, 25 x 80, the first floor of which will be occupied by Messrs. Hendricks & Wilson.
Winfield Courier, February 12, 1880.
                                                  HENDRICKS & WILSON,
                            Dealers in Shelf & Heavy Hardware, Stoves and Tinware.
                     SOUTH MAIN STREET, 4 DOORS SOUTH OF 76 HORNING.
Winfield Courier, August 5, 1880.
Messrs. Hendricks & Wilson have rented the Page building, and will move their stock of hardware as soon as the Roland stock can be removed.
Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Wilson...
Winfield Courier, February 10, 1881.
                                                     CRYSTAL WEDDING.

Mr. and Mrs. Shrieves celebrated the 15th anniversary of their marriage by inviting their friends to attend their crystal wedding on Tuesday evening, February 8th. Accord­ingly a merry party filled the omnibuses and proceeded to their residence, one mile east of town, and spent an evening of unal­loyed pleasure. Mrs. Shrieves, assisted by her sisters, Mrs. Cummings and Mrs. Wm. Shrieves, entertained their guests in a graceful and pleasant manner. Although invitation cards announced no presents, a few of the most intimate friends pre­sented some choice little articles in remembrance of the occa­sion.
The following were present: Mrs. Hickok, Mrs. Mansfield, Mrs. Butler, Miss Graham, Mr. and Mrs. Kinne, Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. Wallis, Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Robin­son, Mr. and Mrs. Spotswood, Dr. and Mrs. Van Doren, Mr. and Mrs. Earnest, Mr. and Mrs. H. Brown, Rev. and Mrs. Hyden, Rev. and Mrs. Platter, Mrs. Houston, Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Millington, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Mr. and Mrs. Black, Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Wilson, Rev. and Mrs. Borchers, Mr. and Mrs. Meech, Mr. and Mrs. Millhouse, Mr. and Mrs. S. S. Linn, Mr. and Mrs. Snyder, Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Roberts, Mr. Hendricks, and John Roberts.
Winfield Courier, March 24, 1881.
Messrs. Hendricks & Wilson have removed their hardware store to the old Saddler stand. This gives them more room, which they have needed badly.
Winfield Courier, April 7, 1881.
REMOVAL OF THE HARDWARE STORE OF HENDRICKS & WILSON to the room formerly occupied by B SADLER & CO’S STORE, -BEING- 3 DOORS NORTH OF OUR OLD STAND. A LARGE ADDITIONAL STOCK OF HARDWARE, STOVES & TINWARE. REMEMBER THE STORE -IS ON- MAIN STREET, NEAR 10TH AVE.
                                                  HENDRICKS & WILSON.
Winfield Courier, May 5, 1881.
                                                      Prohibition in Kansas.
                                How It Has Killed Winfield and Cowley County!
      Statements of Businessmen of Winfield and Leading Citizens of Cowley County,
                                          Kansas, in Relation to the Situation.
We have received many letters from Iowa and other states containing a letter written by Frank Manny, of this city, clipped from one newspaper or another, with the inquiry if the statements therein contained are true. We answered one of these briefly last week, but subsequently we learn that the Manny letter is being published widely in other states, not only as an argument against prohibitory liquor laws, but against emigrating to Kansas, and particularly against this city and county. It is known that Winfield and Cowley County are the
                                              BANNER CITY AND COUNTY

for prohibition. The vote on the prohibitory amendment last November was in Winfield 443 for, and 121 against. Majority for: 322. In Cowley County the vote stood, 3,248 for, and 870 against. Majority for, 2,373. No other city or county in the state gave anything like such majorities for, and most cities as large or larger than Winfield gave majorities against. If prohibition is disastrous to a community, it is fit that this city and county be the heaviest sufferers. If it is a good thing, this city and county should come in for a goodly share of the benefits. This city and county are only eleven years old. In that time they have risen from nothing to a population of 21,539 for the county, and 2,850 for the city, according to the U. S. census of 1880, and the population of the city today is not less than 3,300. Of these eleven years, nine of them have been years of magnificent crops of all kinds, and two of them have been years of partial failure. The first year of short crops was 1874, and the following spring showed a decrease of population and a stagnation of business. The other year of short crops was 1880, which was even worse than 1874, and the result on the population and business this spring will appear in the statements which follow. Either in consequence of, or in spite of the fact that intoxicating liquors have always been sold here in any abundance, we have arisen from nothing to one of the best and wealthiest counties in the west in eleven years. Was it whiskey, or was it our wonderfully fertile soil, fine climate, and attrac­tive surroundings?
Below are statements of businessmen and leading citizens of this city and county.
                                                  HENDRICKS & WILSON,
General hardware, stoves, and tinware. Out trade is fully as good as it was a year ago. We expected a large falling off in trade on account of short crops last year. We account for the contin­ued good trade by the arrival of men with money who are settling in the county. We get some of the money which was formerly spent for liquor.
Winfield Courier, May 26, 1881.
                                                                     AD.
                                                               REMOVAL
                                                                -0F THE-
                                                            Hardware Store
                                                                    -OF-
                                                 HENDRICKS & WILSON,
                                               to the room formerly occupied by
                                                B. SADLER & CO.’S STORE,
                                                                 -BEING-
                                                         3 DOORS NORTH
                                                               -OF OUR-
                                                             OLD STAND.
                            A large Additional Stock of Hardware, Stoves & Tinware.
                Remember the Store -IS ON- MAIN STREET, NEAR 10TH AVENUE.
Cowley County Courant, January 19, 1882.
The Merchants’ and Business Men’s Protection Association met Thursday evening at the office of A. H. Doane & Co., president Spotswood presiding. The committee on constitution and by-laws tendered their report, which was received and taken up for action by sections, after which it was adopted as a whole, and the secretary instructed to have the same printed and furnish each member with a copy. The following firms became members of the association.
                                       One of the firms listed: Hendricks & Wilson.
[PROPOSITION TO ERECT LEATHER MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY.]
Cowley County Courant, March 2, 1882.

We call the attention of our citizens to the communication from Mr. Thorpe in this issue, and we are glad to see them investigating the matter. The prospect of such a manufactory is decidedly pleasant to us, and we would like to see the matter given full attention. We don’t think there is any danger of Winfield becoming a “way station,” but we would not lose an opportunity to build up this city or advance her interests. Winfield is flourishing now, and we want it to continue in so doing and we think all our businessmen are with us in that desire.
The following are some of the well known citizens who fully endorse my proposition and who also agree to take shares in the corporation.
                                                   Listed: Hendricks & Wilson.
Cowley County Courant, March 9, 1882.
We get a report by telephone that Hendricks & Wilson will soon be in the room now occupied by Shrieves & Powers, and that the latter firm is contemplating going out of business.
Cowley County Courant, April 6, 1882.
The election for city officers in Winfield Tuesday resulted in the election of the following named gentlemen.
Justices of the Peace: T. H. Soward and G. H. Buckman.
Constables: H. H. Siverd and Frank Finch.
Councilmen:
First ward—R. S. Wilson.
Second ward—J. C. McMullen.
Members of Board of Education:
First ward (long term)—J. C. Fuller.
                     (to fill vacancy)—George Emerson.
Second ward (long term)—B. F. Wood.
                      (to fill vacancy)—A. H. Doane.
The election was conducted in an unusually quiet manner, and the best of feeling prevailed through the entire day.
Cowley County Courant, April 6, 1882.
A little five-year-old daughter of J. C. Fuller was walking the stringer of a picket fence Tuesday evening, and falling, caught her feet between the pickets, and was suspended until Mr. R. S. Wilson ran about a block and rescued her. The ankle was considerably sprained, but no bones were broken.
Winfield Courier, April 6, 1882.
Winfield is to have another new business building this spring. J. E. Conklin will erect a brick storeroom eighty feet deep on the site of the old Bliss storeroom, next to Baird’s. The building, when finished, will be occupied by Hendricks & Wilson’s hardware store.
Winfield Courier, April 6, 1882.
                                                              City Election.

The City election last Tuesday passed off pleasantly and quietly, but there was strenuous work done. As usual, the successful candidates are happy and the unsuccessful feel a little sore. There were no party nominations and the contest, so far as there was a contest, was mainly on the prohibition issue. The anti-prohibitionists on Monday evening made up a good strong ticket largely of prohibition candidates with the evident main object of beating Buckman for Justice, Siverd for Constable, and whoever might be nominated in the first ward for councilman by their opponents. The prohibitionists accepted their nominations so far as suited them, but substituted other names for five principal offices, as appears below, to make up a complete ticket. The long and short term candidates for school board happened to get reversed on the two tickets, which occasioned the votes for full term and vacancy for the same candidates. Every man on the prohibitionist’s ticket was elected by majorities ranging from 55 to 180. The average vote on contested candidates in the whole city was 245 prohibition to 145 anti, or 100 majority. This is the way we look at the matter, but others may view it differently. The following is the vote in full. Those names prefixed by * are elected.
COUNCILMAN [FIRST WARD].
*R. S. WILSON: 150
  S. Bard: 72
  Dan Maher: 1
  J. C. McMullen: 3.
COUNCILMAN [SECOND WARD].
*J. C. McMULLEN: 168
  W. J. Hodges: 6
  W. H. Smith: 1
Winfield Courier, April 13, 1882.
The contract for the roofing of the Conklin building was awarded to Horning, Robinson & Co. This is going to be one of the best stores in the city, and will be occupied by Messrs. Hendricks & Wilson as a retail hardware store.
Cowley County Courant, April 20, 1882.
                                                 COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS.
Council met in regular session, Mayor M. G. Troup presiding. Present, Councilmen Read, Gary, Mater, and Hodges, City Attorney Seward, and Clerk Beach.
The minutes of the regular meeting of April 3rd, and of the meeting of April 7th, to canvass the votes cast at the general election held April 8th, were read and approved.
Col. J. C. McMullen and Mr. R. S. Wilson, Councilmen elect, being present, were then inducted into office; Messrs. Hodges and Mater, vacating their offices.
Ordinance No. 156 being an ordinance providing for the construction of certain sidewalks therein named, was read and on motion of Mr. Read, was taken up for consideration by sections. Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 were adopted. On the motion to adopt as a whole on its final passage, the vote stood as follows: Those voting aye, were Messrs. Read, Gary, McMullen, and Wilson; nays, none, and the ordinance was declared adopted.
On motion of Mr. McMullen, Mr. Read was elected President of the Council for the ensuing year.
The Mayor then made the following appointments of standing committees for the ensuing year.
Finance: Gary, McMullen, and Wilson.
Streets and Alleys: Read, Gary, and Wilson.
Public Health: McMullen, Read, and Gary.
Fire Department: Wilson, Gary, and McMullen.
Winfield Courier, May 18, 1882.
                                                        Council Proceedings.
COUNCIL CHAMBER, CITY OF WINFIELD, May 15th, 1882.

Council met in regular session and was called to order by Mayor Troup. The following officers answered to the call of the roll: Councilmen Read, Gary, and Wilson, and City Clerk.
The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.
An ordinance relating to the storing of powder within the City limits was read, and on motion was referred to the Committee on Fire Department and City Attorney for modification and revision.
The Committee on Finance reported that they had examined the reports of Treasurer for month ending April 15th, and of Police Judge for March, and found them correct. Report adopted.
Winfield Courier, May 25, 1882.
                     COUNCIL CHAMBER, CITY OF WINFIELD, MAY 23, 1882.
Council met pursuant to adjournment. Mayor Troup in chair.
Roll called. Present, Councilmen Read, Gary, McMullen, and Wilson.
Ordinance No. 157 providing for the construction of certain sidewalks therein specified was read and on motion of Mr. Read was taken up for consideration by sections. Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 were adopted. On motion to adopt as a whole on its final passage, the vote stood as follows: Those voting aye were Messrs. Read, McMullen, Gary, and Wilson; nays none, and the Ordinance was declared adopted.
Ordinance No. 158 regulating the storing and keeping of powder was read, and on motion was taken up for consideration by sections. Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 were adopted. On motion to adopt as a whole on its final passage, the vote stood as follows: Those voting aye were Messrs. Read, Gary, McMullen, and Wilson; nays none, and the ordinance was declared adopted.
Ordinance No. 159, Protecting life and property by regulating the maintenance and construction of wire fences and the lariating of stock was read and on motion of Mr. Read, was taken up for consideration by sections. Sections 1, 2, and 3 were adopted. On motion to adopt as a whole on its final passage, the vote stood as follows: Those voting aye were Messrs. Read, McMullen, Gary, and Wilson, nays none, and the ordinance was declared adopted.
Winfield Courier, June 8, 1882.
                    COUNCIL CHAMBER, CITY OF WINFIELD, JUNE 5TH, 1882.
Council met in regular session, Mayor M. G. Troup in chair. Present: Councilmen Read, Gary, Wilson, and McMullen; City Attorney and Clerk.
Ordinance No. 163 amending Sections No. 3 of Ordinance No. 111 and Ordinance No. 141 was read and on motion was taken up for consideration by sections. Sections No. 1, 2, and 3 were adopted. On motion to adopt as a whole on its final passage the vote stood as follows: Those voting aye were Messrs. Read, McMullen, Gary and Wilson; nays none, and the ordinance was declared adopted.
Ordinance No. 161, prohibiting the stacking of hay and other combustible material and the covering of stables and other buildings with such materials, within the corporate limits of the City of Winfield, was read and on motion was taken up for consideration by sections. Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 were adopted. On motion to adopt as a whole on its final passage, the vote stood as follows: Those voting aye were Messrs. Read, McMullen, Gary, and Wilson; nays none, and the ordinance was declared adopted.

Winfield Courier, August 24, 1882.
                  COUNCIL CHAMBER, CITY OF WINFIELD, AUGUST 21, 1882.
Council met in regular session, Mayor Troup presiding.
Roll called. Present: Councilmen Read, Gary, and Wilson and City Attorney and Clerk.
Ordinance No. 163, being an ordinance in relation to working the road tax in the streets and alleys of Winfield City, was read and on motion of Mr. Read was taken up for consideration by sections.
Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 were adopted. On motion to adopt as a whole on its final passage the vote stood as follows: Those voting aye were Messrs. Read, Gary, and Wilson; nays none, and the Ordinance was declared adopted.
Winfield Courier, August 24, 1882.
                  COUNCIL CHAMBER, CITY OF WINFIELD, AUGUST 22, 1882.
Council met in adjourned session, Mayor Troup in chair. Roll called: Present, Councilmen Read, McMullen, Gary, and Wilson, and City Clerk.
Ordinance 164 levying a tax for general revenue was read and on motion of Mr. McMullen was taken up for consideration by sections. Sections 1, 2, and 3 were adopted on motion to adopt as a whole in its final passage. The vote stood as follows: Those voting aye were Messrs. Read, McMullen, Gary, and Wilson. Nays one and the ordinance was declared adopted.
Winfield Courier, September 7, 1882.
                                                        Council Proceedings.
                COUNCIL CHAMBER, CITY OF WINFIELD, SEPTEMBER 4, 1882.
Council met in regular session, Mayor M. G. Troup presiding.
Present: Councilmen Read, Gary, and Wilson; City attorney and Clerk.
The Finance Committee reported on reports of Police Judge for months of April, May, July, and August that they found the same correct. Adopted. On report for June the Committee asked further time, which was granted.
Winfield Courier, September 7, 1882.
A new grocery store has been started in the building vacated by Hendricks & Wilson, next to Baden’s Headquarters.
Winfield Courier, September 14, 1882.
REMEMBER THAT AT THE HARDWARE STORE OF HENDRICKS & WILSON You can get anything in the way of HARDWARE, STOVES, TINWARE, AND NAILS.
                       Main Street, South of 10th Avenue. HENDRICKS & WILSON.
Winfield Courier, November 15, 1883.
                  COUNCIL CHAMBER, CITY OF WINFIELD, November 12, 1883.
Council met pursuant to adjournment, Mayor Emerson in chair. Roll called. Present: Councilmen McMullen, McGuire, Kretsinger, and Wilson. Minutes of the last two regular meetings and adjourned meeting read and approved.
Winfield Courier, November 29, 1883.

Dr. Taylor discovered an incipient fire on Tenth Avenue last week that might have proved very destructive. Someone had thrown hot ashes out in the alley running from 10th to 9th Avenues near the rear of Hendrick & Wilson’s hardware store. The live coals in the ashes ignited some loose trash and the whole was just ready to break into a blaze when the Doctor passed by and gave the alarm. Had it got started, the row of wooden buildings between the Torrance-Fuller block and Baird’s would have certainly gone, and while it would not have been much of a loss to the city, it would have been severe on the owners and occupants. The moral which adorns this tale is, don’t throw live coals out until they are dead, or strangle them before you leave them.
Winfield Courier, December 27, 1883.
AD. HENDRICKS & WILSON, DEALERS IN SHELF AND HEAVY HARDWARE,
Stoves, Tinware, Pumps, Rubber & Leather Belting.
HEADQUARTERS FOR GARLAND STOVES & RANGES, the best in the world.
                                        Lowest prices on Tin and Sheet Iron work.
West side Main street, between 9th and 10th Avenues, Winfield, Kansas.
Winfield Courier, January 17, 1884.
                                                              OUR FAIR.
                                   The Stockholders Meet and Elect a New Board.
                                                         A Splendid Record.
On Monday afternoon the stockholders of the Cowley County Fair and Driving Park Association met in the Opera House for the purpose of re-organizing the Board of Directors for the year 1884, and receiving reports of the condition and doings of the Association for the year. About seventy-five stockholders, representing nearly all of the subscribed stock, were present.
                                       Hendricks & Wilson had one share of stock.
[WINFIELD WATERWORKS.]
Winfield Courier, January 31, 1884.
                                               WATERWORKS ACCEPTED.
The city councilmen at their meeting Monday evening accepted the waterworks, Messrs. Kretsinger, McMullen, and McGuire voting aye; Mr. Wilson and Mayor Emerson opposing.  This was hastily done while the reservoir had never been filled to test whether it was strong enough to hold two million gallons of water as required by the ordinance and while the question of whether the company had a right to the water from the “mill pond” was pending in the court. Since the acceptance the court has decided that the company have no right to use the water, thus leaving the city with a dry, waterless waterworks on its hands and $3,000 a year tax. We expected Kretsinger would vote for an acceptance whether there was any water in the reservoir or not, but we were surprised beyond measure when McMullen went over thus early and McGuire with him, while we honor Mr. Wilson and the mayor for their conservative and prudent course in the interests of the city. We do not mean to reflect on the motives of the gentlemen who voted for acceptance. We give them credit for doing what they considered just and proper in the case, and we hold them in higher respect, but we think they have made a mistake.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
                                                              More Fires.

Again, on Sunday evening, an attempt was made to set fire to property in the city. A lot of hay was stuffed under the rear end of Hendricks & Wilson’s hardware store and ignited. It was done about half past seven o’clock in the evening. Mr. James McLain, who has been acting as night watchman, first discovered and put it out. Shortly before, when walking across Manning Street and Tenth Avenue, he passed a man who was walking hurriedly. As soon as he passed, the man broke into a run, and a moment after McLain discovered the fire. When he turned, the man had disappeared in the darkness. What the object of these incendiaries is cannot be defined. The fire in the Hodges barn could have injured but little business property if successful. The fire started in the Shenneman barn, immediately after, when the hose was handy and hundreds of people standing around to use it, could not have been set with a very villainous intent to destroy, as the destroyer might have known it would be put out in a minute. The setting of the Sunday evening fire early in the evening, when everyone was about, showed a lack of deep intent to do great injury. However, our people have resolved to put a stop to it, and to that end the following paper has been prepared and duly signed, and the total sum of $222.50 goes to the person who runs the fire-bugs in.
We, the undersigned, promise to pay the sum set against our respective names as a reward for the apprehension and conviction of any person or persons engaged in setting any incendiary fire in the city of Winfield, either heretofore or hereafter.
THOSE WHO CONTRIBUTED $5.00:
S. C. Smith, T. K. Johnston, Horning & Whitney, Wm. Newton, Hudson Bros., McGuire Bros., J. B. Lynn, Geo. Emerson, COURIER Co., Ella C. Shenneman, W. S. Mendenhall, Winfield Bank, M. L. Read’s Bank, Rinker & Cochran, Miller & Dawson, H. Beard, Whiting Bros., Hendricks & Wilson, A. E. Baird, Johnston & Hill, J. N. Harter, Farmers Bank, Wallis & Wallis, F. V. Rowland, J. S. Mann, Hughes & Cooper, A. B. Arment, Quincy A. Glass, W. L. Morehouse, McDonald & Miner, Curns & Manser, J. D. Pryor, M. Hahn & Co., O’Meara & Randolph, S. H. Myton, J. P. Baden, Telegram, Scofield & Keck, Henry Goldsmith.
THOSE WHO CONTRIBUTED $2.50.
R. E. Sydal, S. D. Pryor, E. G. Cole, Kraft & Dix, H. Brown & Son, Brotherton & Silver, F. M. Friend, F. H. Blair, F. H. Bull, T. J. Harris, Albro & Dorley.
                                                   TOTAL RAISED: $222.50
[CITY PARLIAMENT.]
Winfield Courier, March 13, 1884.
The following bills were allowed and ordered paid.
Hendricks & Wilson, supplies for Council Room: $40.80.
J. F. McMullen, attorney for the Gas Company, filed a written request for the appointment of a committee to locate the places for the erection of the gas ports. Councilmen McMullen, Wilson, and Kretsinger were appointed as such committee.
Ordinance No. 184, contracting for the supply of gas to the city of Winfield to light the streets and public buildings of said city was passed and approved by the mayor.
An ordinance granting to the Southern Kansas Railway Co. the right to lay a side track along and in Fifth Avenue between Main and Manning Streets, was passed.

The Winfield Gas Company filed a statement locating its main buildings and appurtenances for the manipulation of gas on out lot No. 3 lying north of Fifth Avenue and west of Main Street within the corporate limits of the city. The location was accepted by the council.
Winfield Courier, April 3, 1884.
                                                 THE FINANCIAL POLICY.
The result of the city election is generally satisfactory. The contest was not very spirited, the issue being merely a personal choice between candidates, neither of whom seemed very anxious to succeed. There was a general sentiment that too much taxes have already been placed on the city by the inauguration of water works, gas works, and fire department, and against any extensions of mains this year to add to the city taxes; and that was the only issue talked of. As all the candidates for councilmen were pledged against extensions, both by the actions of the caucuses which nominated them and by their own declarations, this issue was one sided.
The policy of the city council this year will be to keep down expenses to the lowest possible limit and raise all the revenue practicable from other sources than direct taxation so as, if possible, to pay all the water and gas rents from these sources and leave only the ordinary expenses of the city to raise by direct taxation.
It is certainly time we called a halt and looked about us to see what we are coming to.
In the first ward, Mr. R. S. Wilson would certainly have been re-elected to the Council if he had consented to serve another term, for he has been the strongest opponent to heavy taxation, and advocate of economy, and his services have earned the thanks of the taxpayers of this city.
Winfield Courier, April 10, 1884.
The City Fathers met on Monday evening in regular session, all present. Sidewalk Ordinance 187 was passed. Report of Police Judge for December and January found correct.
The street commissioner was instructed to ascertain the cost of 800 feet sewer pipe, to be attached to the Brettun House sewer leading down Main and across the S. K. Depot, and report the same to the Council at the next regular meeting.
The report of committee on location of gas ports was adopted.
The following bills were ordered paid.
R. S. Wilson, stone furnished the city, $10.00.
Hendricks & Wilson, supplies, $10.25.
Winfield Courier, May 15, 1884.
Best Rubber Hose and Hose reels at Hendricks & Wilson.
Winfield Courier, May 15, 1884.
M. L. Read and M. L. Robinson have purchased from J. E. Conklin the lot and building now being occupied by Hendricks & Wilson’s hardware store. The consideration was eight thousand dollars.
[COWLEY COUNTY FAIR.]
Winfield Courier, August 7, 1884.
                                        Hendricks & Wilson listed as stockholders.
                                                     SPECIAL PREMIUMS.
The following special premiums are offered by the citizens of Cowley County. Parties wishing to compete for them must enter articles same as in other class, and must also comply with the instructions and requests named in the premium.

President J. F. Martin will have charge of this department, make assignment of articles, and appoint the necessary judges.
                          BY HENDRICKS & WILSON. HARDWARE DEALERS.
$2.50 For the Largest Pumpkin raised in Cowley County.
Winfield Courier, August 21, 1884.
Hendricks & Wilson had a wonderful display in their window Saturday evening. It was made up of gas jets in every conceivable kind of burner and globes. The burners were arranged by Gus Goegel, their gas fitter, who can carry a gas pipe where any person can carry a tow string. There were over a dozen of the jets running and they attracted much attention. He will soon have the firm name set forth in letters of light in front of the store by means of a pipe made of perforated gas pipe neatly joined into letters. Gus is a genius and understands the plumbing business clear through.
[FAIR.]
Winfield Courier, October 2, 1884.
Hendricks & Wilson had a display of stoves which was highly creditable to their ever-reliable establishment. Mr. Hendricks was kept busy explaining the points of interest to the gentle housewives, who are always looking out for improvements in the cooking art.
                                                     SPECIAL PREMIUMS.
One or more best sheaves of wheat, $10.00 by Bliss & Wood, Isaac Wood, 1st.
By Hendricks & Wilson, $2.50 for largest pumpkin in Cowley County, D. P. Hurst.
                                      Hendricks & Wilson. Hardware Dealers.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 1, 1885.
The store room of Hendricks & Wilson contains one of the most complete stocks in the city, and the integrity and experience of the firm have long since been established. They do a very thrifty business and in the last few years their establishment has spread astonishingly, now ranking with any of its kind. Their stock embraces everything in hardware, stoves, and tinware. They also do a large business in plumbing and gas fitting, carrying a complete line of fixtures and employing one of the best plumbers in the west.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 12, 1885.
                                                  HENDRICKS & WILSON
                                                             DEALERS IN
                                                   Shelf and Heavy Hardware,
                                         STOVES, TIN & SHEET IRON WARE
                                               Plumbers, Gas and Steam Fitters.
                Hose, Reeds, Lawn Sprinklers, Gas and Water Plumbing at Lowest Rates
                                                   and Satisfaction Guaranteed.
                                West side Main street, between 9th and 10th avenues.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 9, 1885.
The old City Council held its last meeting Monday evening.
The following bills were ordered paid.
Leon Doroshee, work on street, $8; E. F. Sears, crossings, $33.04; Hendricks & Wilson, supplies, $30; J. A. Edwards, stone for City, $13.50; A. T. Roberts, dog tags, $2.25; A. H. Glandon, crossing, $67.30.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 14, 1885.
Hendricks & Wilson have furnished the editor with the cutest little telescope extension pocket scissors that one could imagine. What Hendricks & Wilson cannot furnish in the fine cutlery line is not worth having. With this instrument we expect to write bright, original editorial paragraphs.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 18, 1885.
M. L. Robinson, R. S. Wilson, J. H. Horning, John Crane, and J. D. Lee returned from Leavenworth Sunday, where they had been in attendance upon the U. S. Circuit Court in the case of Frank Barclay against the Winfield Water Company. Barclay got judgment for nine hundred dollars. He claimed about nine thousand.
                                                  Auditor’s Report for May.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 18, 1885.
                                        Jail supplies, Hendricks & Wilson: $16.50.
R. S. Wilson...
                                              REV. B. KELLY CAPTURED.
     A Number of Gentlemen Uniquely Surprise Him on Behalf of Numerous Citizens.
                                                A Splendid Token of Esteem.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.
The faithful and productive labors of Rev. B. Kelly, as a minister and a citizen, met with a response Monday that left not a little additional sunshine in the Reverend’s pleasant home. Numerous citizens, from a spontaneous appreciation, had made up a purse of three hundred and thirty-one dollars to be presented to Rev. Kelly, as a token of their respect for him. Christian and sinner, prohibitionist and anti-prohibitionist, rich and poor, were among the donors showing the universal admiration of Mr. Kelly’s fearless and zealous advocacy of every good cause. To have so many interested, the matter had been kept remarkably still, and Rev. Kelly was completely in the dark. The committee of presentation, on the part of the donors, were Capt. J. B. Nipp, Judge T. H. Soward, Messrs. J. E. Conklin, John Arrowsmith, and R. S. Wilson, who, accompanied by our reporter, made the raid at 8:30 last evening. Mr. Kelly was found at home, and, with an astonished, though very genial manner, welcomed the party. Without any embarrassing preliminaries, Judge Soward said:

“Bro. Kelly: It gives me great pleasure, in company with these friends, to meet you in your home this evening. We do not come for the single pleasure of an hour’s social intercourse. We come as the representatives of a large number of your warm hearted fellow citizens of this city, composed of all denominations and a very large number who represent no religious sect, to assure you of the high esteem which we have for you as a christian gentleman, and to express to you our admiration of the indomitable and untiring energy you have shown in behalf of the moral culture, happiness, and prosperity of our people. Words alone cannot express our feelings, and I bring you from these hands, acting under the impulse of warm and generous hearts, this gift, which we ask you to accept as a slight token of our esteem of a brave and manly man. The intrinsic value of this gift, in itself, is slight; but when I assure you that it bears with it the warm hearted wishes of your friends and admirers, who wish many more years of usefulness and happiness to your household, it becomes more valuable, as we know you esteem the confidence and friendship of your fellow citizens priceless.”
Rev. Kelly, usually equal to any occasion, was to use a homely expression, “all broke up,” and were we to publish his response in full, would no doubt demand a committee of identification. He was glad to welcome the gentlemen to his home on a mission laden with such esteem and encouragement. The surprise, he said, was so complete and of such a character as to incapacitate him for expressing as he would like his deep felt gratitude. He accepted the gift in the spirit it was given—a spontaneous token from warm and appreciative hearts. During his fifteen years residence in Kansas, he had tried to build up, in christianity, morality, and general prosperity. This he had done in Winfield and would continue to do. His fidelity was not prompted by monetary gain, but for the upbuilding of humanity and the calling he espoused. This gift would make one of the greenest spots in his memory. His heart was filled with inexpressible appreciation. With hearty hand-shaking, the formality was changed into pleasant converse, followed by seasonable refreshments, served very agreeably by Misses Maude and Hortense. Mrs. Kelly was ill and unable to appear. The gift was accompanied by a list of the contributors.
                                                           MEAN TRICK.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 27, 1885.
Many have noticed and commented upon the little old shed building placed alongside R. S. Wilson’s splendid new residence on East Eleventh Avenue, almost ruining its beauty. We have made inquiry and if the facts as presented to us by the neighbors and others are true, it exhibits one of the most contemptibly mean actions we have yet been called upon to record. In fact, we did not imagine that Winfield contained a man so low down as to do a thing of the kind. We suggest that the matter be fixed up. If it isn’t, THE COURIER will feel compelled, in the interests of public decency, to ventilate someone.
                                               THE BOOM COMMENCED.
              New Buildings, Residence and Business, Spring Up All Over the City.
             Their Owners, Style, Cost, etc.—A Resume of our Improvement Boom!
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 3, 1885.
The reporter started out Friday to take in the city, and to see what was going on in the building line. We were surprised to find so much work and improvements in process. Winfield is beginning to take on the fall boom. The laboring class need not be wanting for work, but we have no need of any more. We have plenty of work coming for those here, but anyone coming here to seek work will be left, for there is only work enough for the ones here.
R. S. Wilson is pushing his residence to completion on East 11th Avenue. This house is 40 x 30, containing ten rooms. The parlor is 14 x 16, connected with the sitting room by folding doors. From the sitting room you can go out on the porch or into the dining room; back of the dining room is the kitchen 14 x 18, which will be supplied with water pipes. There is a bathroom back of this 6 x 7 and a pantry 6 x 6. There are six bedrooms above. Probable cost: $3,000. R. S. Wilson, architect; R. S. Spencer, foreman.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 3, 1885.
                                                  HENDRICKS & WILSON
                                                            -DEALERS IN-

                                                   Shelf and Heavy Hardware,
                                         STOVES, TIN & SHEET IRON WARE
                                             Plumbers, Gas and Steam Fitters
Hose, Reeds, Lawn Sprinklers, Gas and Water Plumbing at Lowest Rates and Satisfaction
                                                               Guaranteed.
                            West Side Main Street, between 9th and 10th avenues.
Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Wilson and Mr. and Mrs. A. D. Hendricks sent gifts, but apparently did not attend wedding...
     The Marriage of Mr. Ezra M. Nixon and Miss Jessie Millington Thursday Night.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 15, 1885.
                                              THE TOKENS AND DONORS.
          Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Wilson and Mr. and Mrs. A. D. Hendricks, pair silver goblets.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 15, 1885.
The city council held an adjourned meeting Wednesday afternoon.
The following bills were ordered paid:
Hendricks & Wilson, supplies, street commissioner, $190.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 29, 1885.
The reporter mounting a steed sallied forth early Friday morning to take an inventory of the improvements and new buildings which have gone up since the season opened, and the ones under construction at the present time. Being rushed, we are satisfied many have been overlooked. The valuation given is below the market value rather than above. The following list we know will surprise our own citizens.
                                            R. S. Wilson, Residence: $5,000.00.
                                     FLORENCE, EL DORADO & WALNUT.
                       The Township Committees Meet and Arrange Propositions.
                                                   Some Convincing Figures.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 17, 1885.
The committees, appointed at the citizens’ meeting, to work up the submitting of propositions for the extension of the Florence El Dorado & Walnut railroad from Douglass to Winfield, met yesterday afternoon in McDougall’s hall to determine on the apportionment of the amount of aid asked. Judge T. H. Soward called the meeting to order. S. P. Strong was chosen chairman and W. J. Wilson, Secretary. M. L. Robinson then explained the object of the meeting, to get everything in readiness for aggressive work in submitting the propositions and securing this road.
Over $500 was subscribed as follows.
                                             Hendricks & Wilson donated $5.00.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 31, 1885.

Some “ornery cases,” on Christmas morning, stole from the editor’s desk, his knife, and since that time he has had to work with dull pencils, black finger nails, and bad erasers, so that his work had an unusual slouchiness about it, but Hendricks & Wilson have come to the rescue with a magnificent, sharp, pearl-handled knife with compliments. They have a certain pride in seeing THE COURIER come out with neatness and dispatch and are ready to supply the needed utensils as witness the pocket scissors which write the original editorials. Hendricks & Wilson always know what is wanted, always have the best, and always sell at the lowest living prices. In short, they are businessmen worth having in any community.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 21, 1886.
Mrs. Zook has taken rooms at R. S. Wilson’s, on 11th avenue, where she will be glad to see her friends.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1886.
Mr. Klauser has begun the erection of another fine residence, this time on east 11th, near R. S. Wilson’s. His houses are always unique in architecture.

 

Cowley County Historical Society Museum