WABAUNSEE COUNTY, KANSAS

NEWSPAPER ARTICLES


Use of Name Riled Him
(Henry Bussard)

Wellington, Kan.—Because he believed the preacher was referring to his family when he spoke of buzzards in a slighting manner, Henry Bussard, a young farmer, struck the Rev. J. A. Taylor, an evangelist, at Atgonla Thursday night, rendering him unconscious for six hours. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 2, 1908, page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Robbers Slay a Nonagenarian (Frances Guthrie)

Hutchinson, Kan.—The most brutal crime committed In this community since the atrocious Moore murders of ten years ago, was brought to light when the body of Mrs. Frances Guthrie, an aged negro, was found in her home on the western edge of the city. She had been tortured by beating, garroting and gagging before death resulted, In an evident attempt to force her to reveal the hiding place of money she was supposed to have had. Mrs. Guthrie was between 90 and 100 years old. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 2, 1908, page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Kansas Firemen at Beloit

Beloit, Kan.—The Kansas Volunteer State Firemen's association began Its nineteenth annual session here Tuesday. An Informal reception and a band concert were given for the visitors Tuesday night In the grand parade Wednesday the following prizes were given: Best appearing fire team. Solomon; handsome chief. W. B. Sheriff of Ellsworth; handsomest fireman, Walter Libby of Marysvllle; homeliest fireman, Charlos Marsh of Peabody. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 2, 1908, page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Wellington, Kan. Has Three Fires

Wellington, Kan.—Three fires since 3:30 o'clock Monday morning, which consumed barns and outbuildings, the third Wednesday night in a $10,000 double barn which was totally destroyed, has led to the belief that an Incendiary is at work here. He was seen leaving the scene of his last fire, but was not recognized. Coal oil has been utilized to start each fire. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 2, 1908, page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

DID NOT CONVICT WHITLOW

Not Guilty of Perjury, the Verdict In the Iola, Kan., Affair.

Iola, Kan.—After being out 24 hours the Jury in the case of S. F. Whitlow, charged with perjury in testimony he gave before the coroner's inquest called to Investigate the cause of the death of Caroline May Sapp, brought in a verdict of not guilty. On the first ballot the jury stood six for acquittal and six for conviction, but the next ballot stood nine for acquittal and three for conviction. The three jurors were finally won over. Whitlow was present when the Jury gave its verdict and thanked the Jury for setting him free.

Whitlow has purchased a small candy store here and says he will settle down In Iola to win back the reputation which his connection with the death of May Sapp tarnished. The father of the girl, who brought the present case for perjury, said therewas nothing to do now. "I shall always believe he was guilty, not only of murder, but of perjury." he said." (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 2, 1908, page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Shot By "Empty" Rifle

Irving Hoover, 13 years old, pulled an "empty" target rifle down a ladder after him. The bullet entered his temple and is now lodged somewhere in his head. The surgeons have been unable to locate it. He will likely die. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 2, 1908, page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Gas Explosion Hurts Three

Three people wero dangerously burned, one perhaps fatally, by the explosion of natural gas at the home of Henry Thomas, in Pittsburg, the other day. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 2, 1908, page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

New Twentieth Kansas Head

The Twentieth Kansas regiment in ninth annual reunion at Topeka held a business meeting and selected new officers Col. E. C. Little was chosen president; George Swartz, secretary, and J L. Padgett, treasurer. Sallna was selected as the next city for the holding of the reunion, but the date was not named. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 2, 1908, page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

To Move State Reform School

The Kansas board of control, In its annual report to the governor and the legislature, will ask that the industrial school for boys in Topeka be re-moved to some western town In Kansas and the present buildings converted Into a hospital for Incurable Insane, or that a new hospital be built In the western part of the state. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 2, 1908, page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Farewell to Copeland County

It will not be long until the Copeland hotel at Topeka, better known as Copeland county, will have passed away. In Its place there will be a new Copeland with only the walls ot the old hotel to mark the place where so many Republican games have been set up and won even before the conventions met. The hotel has been sold to James Copeland Cordon and George Lawrence, who will take possession at once. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 2, 1908, page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Teachers Jump Contracts

E. T. Fairchild, state superintendent, has announced that if he found any teacher violating a contract with school boards without good reason the certificate of that teacher would be cancelled. It Is a fact that teachers go to one school board and make a contract to teach for the next year Then if they find a better Job they throw up this contract and go to work at the other school. There has been so much of this trouble recently that the state superintendent, in an effort to stop contract jumping, made his announcement. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 2, 1908, page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

A Kansas Mine Explosion

Pittsburg, Kan.—An explosion of gas occurred Tuesday in the mine of the Pittsburg Coal company, 18 miles north of the city, fatally injuring a German miner named Miller, burning John Thompson, another miner, so seriously he may not recover and slightly burning a third miner, John Cox. The exact cause of tho explosion Is unknown. Miller had Just passed from the main to a side entry in the mine. The explosion occurred soon after the men were to work in the morning. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 9, 1908 Page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenemeyer)

A Candidate Declines

Topeka, Kan.—Harry R. Ross of St. John, Prohibition candidate for congress in the Seventh district, has withdrawn from the ticket. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 9, 1908 Page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenemeyer)

An Oklahoma Suspect Arrested

Wichita, Kan.—Harry L. Pearson, husband of Mrs. Pearson, who was murdered In Oklahoma City, September 16. arrived here Wednesday night from Oklahoma City and positively Identified F. L. Mingle, being held here as Harry Parker, whom Mrs. Pearson said, while dying, had shot her. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 9, 1908 Page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenemeyer)

John Hooper's 85th Birthday

October 4th was John Hooper's 85th birthday and about 40 of his children and grand-children gathered to help him celebrate the event. This county his no better nor more respected citizens then he and the Enterprise is greatly pleased that he enjoys the health to participate in this celebration in his honor.Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 16, 1908 Page 1, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Back at Fort Riley

Junction City, Kan.—The Seventh regiment of cavalry under the command of Col. Frederick J. Ward, arrived at Fort Riley Wednesday, having made a night march from Manhattan. The regiment marched to St.Joseph, Mo., for the military tournament. Immediately after the maneuvers at Riley. The troops have been away from the post a month. Troop A of the regiment, which remained at the post for duty, left Wednesday on a 250-mile march to Wichita where It will take part In the fall festivities.Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 16, 1908 Page 1, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Kansas After Missouri Pacific

Topeka, Kan.—In a letter addressed to George J. Gould, president of the Missouri Pacific, the Kansas railroad board Tuesday reiterated Its threat made to General Manager Sullivan to publish weekly bulletins of the condition of the road, If steps are not taken to improve it at once. An answer Monday received from Mr. Sullivan failed to declare any Intention on the part of the road of improving conditions and brought forth the letter direct to Mr. Gould Tuesday, in the letter the board alleges the Missouri Pacific has failed in nearly every instance to obey the orders of the board.Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 16, 1908 Page 1, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

To Oust Hutchinson, Kan., Mayor

Topeka, Kan.—Attorney General Jackson will Wednesday morning file two ouster suits In the supreme court, one against the city of Hutchinson and the other against its mayor, John P. Harsha. Both are brought under the provisions of the prohibition law. The suit against the city asks for an Injunction to restrain it from receiving fees from keepers of joint and disorderly houses in lieu of licenses and the suit against the mayor asks that he be ousted from office.Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 16, 1908 Page 1, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Celebrates 75th Birthday

Judge Jos. H. Little was 75 years old Thursday and his wife and children planned a little surprise for him that proved very enjoyable to all concerned, but no one knows for sure whether the Judge was surprised or not. The guests gathered a little before 6 o'clock and at 6:30 sat down to a splendid supper to which all did ample justice. Among those from out of town were Mrs. Nellie Straub of Wanamaker, Harry Perkins of Dover, Mrs. Belle Fuller of St. Joseph, Sam Little of Adrian, Minn., Robt. Day and family of Eskridge, C. B. Kent and wife, Mrs. B. R. Henderson and son Harry and Miss Emma Little of Mission Creek. A few relatives and old time friends from town were also present, among whom was Mrs. Thus. Barker who is in her 86th year. Many gifts and tokens of esteem were given the Judge and his wife, whose birthday occurred the next day, chief among which was a large Morris chair given them by their children.

Since 1867 Judge Little has been a resident of this county and few men have a wider circle of friends and few are more esteemed for their uprightness and high character. He is still hale and hearty, a remarkably well preserved man and good for many years of health and usefulness. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 23, 1908, page 1, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Another Kansas Murder Conviction

Independence, Kan.—William LIpsey was found guilty of murder In the first degree Friday afternoon on a charge of aiding and abetting Henry Behner, who was Thursday found guilty of murdering Tobe Sawyer, Pearl Behner, the murderer's 16-year-old daughter, was living with Sawyer. Lipsey, a former convict, was Infatuated with her. It was asserted that Sawyer had ruined the girl. Lipsey was charged with planning the murder and of arousing Behner, whom he drove In his carriage to Sawyer's farm, where Behner shot Sawyer to death. Both men will be taken to Lansing. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 23, 1908, page 1, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Behner Case to Jury

Independence, Kan.—The case of Henry Behner, charged with the murder of Tobias Sawyer, whom he suspected of the ruin of his daughter, went to the jury Wednesday night at five o'clock. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 23, 1908 Page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Refuses to Leave Kansas

Topeka, Kan.—Rev. Charles M. Sheldon, of the Central Congregational church of this city who was asked to compete for the $10,000 pastorate of the Second Presbyterian church of Pittsburg. Pa., recently vacated by Rev. S. Edward Young, stated Thursday night that he would not entertain the offer. "I am satisfied to remain where I am." he said, "and will not entertain any offer that will take me away from the Central Congregational church. I have been with this church nearly 25 years and have no idea of leaving. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 23, 1908 Page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

TROOPS GUARDED BITLER

Danger of Kansas Lynching Seems Averted.

Greensburg, Kan.—The possibility of a threatened outbreak and a lynching at the trial of Samuel Hitler, charged with the murder of Mrs. John Rosenberger, were practically eliminated Tuesday afternoon when Hitler was granted a change of venue to Ford county and later safely escorted from the city. The trial will be held during the January term of court. Fear of a lynching Induced Sherlfl Stephenson to request a guard of militia from Gov. Hoch Monday night and Hitler was brought here Tuesday morning handcuffed to Sheriff Stephenson and marched to the Jail and courtroom In a hollow square formed by his guards. The crowd which met the train numbered about 200 but was not demonstrative. The guard and officers consisted of 36 men of company E, of Hutchinson, and remained near the prisoner all day. Bitler was escorted to the train Tuesday night and taken to Hutchinson where he has been confined since his arrest. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 23, 1908 Page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

KANSAS SLAYER CONVICTED

Henry Behner's Unwritten Law Plea Falls

Independence, Kansas.—The Jury took the case of Henry Behner, tried for murder of Tobias Sawyer last spring, at 4:30 o'clock Wednesday evening and wrestled with It until 11:30 o'clock Thursday morning when a verdict of murder In the first degree was returned. Behner's wife and the daughter. Pearl, whom Sawyer was accused of assaulting, did not move a muscle as the verdict was read. Not a change of expression could be detected on any of their faces during the trying ordeal, but that this was a mask for deep emotions was shown a few minutes after the adjournment of court when Behner fainted, and physicians had to do some hard work to restore him. A now trial will be applied for. On the stand Behner's wife was compelled to admit that a letter sent to Sawyer's hired hand, in which a demand was made that money he sent for the care of Pearl Behner, was apparently her daughter's work. This indicated to the Jury that Sawyer might have been the victim of a plot. Behner's defense, ostensibly one of Insanity, was really based on the "unwritten law." (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 23, 1908 Page 2, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

FIGHT AGAINST SUNDAY THEATERS AT PARSONS

Taken Out of Police Court

The fight against Sunday theaters at Parsons which has been waged for the past month by the W. C. T. U. was ended when the county attorney served notice that prosecutions would be commenced In the district court under the state law. and that every person violating the law would be prosecuted as often as the law was violated. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 23, 1908, page 3, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Cottage for Cripple Children

George T. Schaefer & Co. of Atchison were awarded the contract to erect a special cottage for cripple children at the State Soldiers' Orphans' home at Atchison. Their bid was $15,808. Tholen Bros. of Leavenworth were given the contract for the heating, wiring and electric apparatus for $2,182. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas October 23, 1908, page 3, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

A Kansas Pipe Line Blew Up

One of the large pipe lines of the Kansas Natural Gas company blew up near Graham station, five miles south of Independence. Service on the Union Traction company was stopped until the track was repaired. The line ran under the car line. The explosion occurred within a few hundred feet of the big pumping station now nearing completion. The gas became Ignited and the flames could be seen a long distance. A car had passed over the spot a few moments before the explosion. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 23, 1908, page 3, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Veterans to Keep Their Pensions

The board of managers of the old soldiers' home at Dodge City, consisting of J. B. Dobyns, F. A. Lyon and A. W. Smith, has Issued an order, effective July 10, last, that thereafter, no portion of a comrade's pension money shall be requlrod to help support the home. It has been the custom, since the home was established, that a portion of a member's pension money should be turned into the home treasury to assist in the support of the institution. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 23, 1908, page 3, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Seven Emporia Grocers Arrested

Seven Emporia grocerymen were arrested on warrants sworn out by the Kansas board or health. They are charged with taking foodstuff from one package and transferring It to a package of some other brand. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 23, 1908, page 3, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Osawatomie Farmers' Institute

The Farmers' institute at Osawatomie was attended by some 200 people. A good colt, corn and produce show was held in connection therewith, the Agricultural college at Manhattan being represented by P. E. Crabtree. H. Van Leeuwen. an export dairyman, spoke on economic milk production. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 23, 1908, page 3, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

A Commercial Club In Linwood

The business men of Linwood have organized a commercial club. George C. Shefler Is president and R. L. Boggart, secretary. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, October 23, 1908, page 3, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas Friday January 13, 1928

PICTURE SHOW BURNS

Alma Suffers From Another Fire Saturday Evening

Alma had another fire Saturday night and the town has been without a picture show this week. About 6 o'clock the alarm sounded, Ronald Fowkes being the one who turned it in when he saw the smoke at the theater across the street. The fire engine got there promptly and soon had a stream of water going into the theater but the fire had got in between the ceiling and roof and was hard to locate and reach. It did not take long however, but not before much damage was done to the interior of the building and to the roof and floor. The fire seemed to have started from the stove or in the chimney on the south side of the building. The stage was burned, the piano ruined and about half the seats are unfit for further use.

The building was owned by Chris Thowe and carried $2000 insurance, but nothing on the contents. We understand he intends to repair it immediately. Charlie Ketterman rented it Dec. 1 and was running the picture show. He lost several reels of films from damage by water but does not know yet what it will amount to.This was about the first time the fire department has had a chance to use the water and they sure turned a flood of it into the building. A number of cars drove over the fire hose which crossed the street. They give such drivers both a stiff fine and a jail sentence in the cities. If they should break the hose, the fire fighters would be put out of business. The damages were estimated at $564.50 and were settled satisfactory with Chris Thowe and the insurance company. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, Friday, January 13, 1928, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

LIZZIE DAVIS HOME DESTROYED BY FIRE

The home of Mrs. Lizzie Davis was destroyed by fire Monday evening. None of the contents were saved. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, Friday, January 13, 1928, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

CAUGHT THEM QUICK

Harveyville Editor Helps Catch Three Auburn Bank Robbers

Kansas is doing better and it looks like Sec. Bowman's Vigilante were functioning all right. Tuesday at 1:46 p. m. three men entered the Auburn bank, help up the Cashier Paul Madden, who used to live at Paxico, took $1000 and drove away. Two hours later the three men were arrested in Harveyville. Before 6 o'clock they were in jail in Topeka, had confessed to the robbery and the money had been found.

The three robbers proved to be Ivan Young of Harveyville. Reese Harman of Topeka, and Leman Viar of Council Grove and they gave as a reason for the crime that they needed the money to pay for a car.

The three Harveyville men who caught them were Dr. L. M. Tomlinson, D. W. Spencer deputy sheriff, and Ted Moser, editor of the Monitor.

The Rankers Association offers a reward of $200 for the arrest and conviction of each bank robber. We hope Moser gets his $200.

The stolen money and the revolvers were found in a corncrib on the Young farm north of Harveyville.

The men face terms in the pen of from 10 to 50 years each. (Alma, Wabaunsee County, Kansas, Friday, January 20, 1928, submitted by Barbara Ziegenmeyer)

STRYKER IS CONDUCTING NORMAL

Ex-State Superintendent Stryker is conducting the Normal in Wabaunsee county. (Kansas Semi Weekly, June 8, 1900, Page 4)

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