Daily Oklahoman 1906 - Garfield County, Oklahoma Submitted by: Emily Jordan 13 Nov 2005 Return to Garfield County Archives: http://www.usgwarchives.net/ok/garfield/garfield.html ========================================================================== USGENWEB NOTICE Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm ========================================================================== Published in The Oklahoman on January 7, 1906: [there is another long article about the career of Captain. A picture of him and a picture of his wife is included. I am only providing new stuff here]. The Frantz Family. The Frantz family is of Swiss origin. Just what time the ancestors of the present family came to America, is not known, but it was some time prior to the Revolutionary war, for after living for a time in Pennsylvania, the family migrated to Virginia, settling in Roanoke County, where the great- grandfather of Captain Frantz enlisted in the Continental army, fighting for the independence of his adopted country. Virginia ws the home of the family for many years, the father of Captain Frantz being born there. In 1855 Henry J. Frantz, father of Captain Frantz, immigrated to Roanoke, Ill., where he shortly afterwards married Miss Marie J. Gish, her family having been neighbors of the Frantz's in Virginia. To this union were born ten children, of whom there are eight living. The family now consists of William D., Edmund H., Walter, Montgomery, Mrs. Lulu Whitson, Mrs. George Rarey, and Frank, all making this city their home, and Orville, who has been for several years a student at Harvard, and who is to be the private secretary of the new governor. The father died several years ago at Wellington, Kan., but the mother still survives, and is living with Mrs. Whitson in this city. Captain Frantz's History. Captain Frantz was born May 7, 1872, at Roanoke, Ill., and will be thirty- four years old at his next birthday. He was educated at the common schools of his native town and at Eureka College, Eureka, Ill. After leaving college in 1894, he went to Los Angeles, Cal., where he remained a year. From there he went to Prescott, Ariz., where he worked for a large mining machinery concern, and afterwards engaged in mining, where he was when the Spanish-American war broke out. Upon learning that a company of the Rough Rider regiment was to be organized in that territory, he went to Prescott and enlisted as a private. After the company had been fully recruited, Governor McCord appointed him first lieutenant in Troop A, and as such he accompanied the troop to San Antonio, and after being equipped, to Tampa, Fla., and on to Cuba. He did not have the pleasure of meeting with the lieutenant-colonel of the regiment until Tampa was reached, and then only in the ordinary course of service. It was not until the bloody fight on San Juan Hill that the friendship now existing between these two men was formed. After the captain of Troop A had fallen, the victim of a Spanish bullet, Frantz was appointed to fill the vacancy, earning the approbation of his superior officers for his fidelity to duty. At the close of the war, and after being mustered out, Captain Frantz returned to Arizona and again engaged in mining. In the early part of 1900 he came to Enid and in company with his brother, Mont., engaged in the hardware business. In March, 1901, he was married in this city to Miss Matilda Evans. To him his wife has presented three beautiful children, of whom the captain is very proud. They are Frank, Jr., Louise, and James. [There's lots more about politics….] Published in The Oklahoman on January 7, 1906: ROADMASTER KILLED. Rock Island Train Struck C.H. Booher at Enid. Enid, Okla., Jan. 6.—Rock Island southbound passenger No. 11, due here at 11 o'clock last night, struck and instantly killed C.H. Boother, roadmaster of the Rock Island road, at the Monroe street crossing in this city. Mr. Booher was recently put in charge of the Enid & Anadarko line and main line of the Rock Island south to Pauls Valley. It is understood he had been drinking and was considerably under the influence of liquor when he was killed. The remains were shipped to his home in Chickasha, I.T., this morning. Published in The Oklahoman on January 12, 1906: Gas Leakage Kills Child. Guthrie, Okla., Jan. 11.—The infant child of P.D. Hunt, of Enid, died there yesterday from asphyxiation, caused by gas leakages in the house. The remains were taken to Kansas City for interment. Published in The Oklahoman on January 19, 1906: The Enid club, owning the opera house at Enid, has elected W. Watrous, president; R.E.P. Messall, secretary. Mr. Messall will again manage the opera house. The new officers of Enid Lodge I.O.O.F. are P.E. Loving, noble grand; E.M. Martin, secretary. Published in The Oklahoman on January 20, 1906: Leaves for Enid. Rev. R.A. Barnes, who organized and was president of the Epworth Assembly which held its first session in Guthrie last August, has been appointed by Bishop Fitzgerald to the pastorate of the First Methodist Episcopal church in Enid. He will move from here about February 1. Published in The Oklahoman on January 23, 1906: ATTORNEY GENERAL WILL STEP DOWN AND OUT FIRST OF APRIL. U.C., CUSS TO CONFERENCE WILL REPRESENT OKLAHOMA IN THE TALK FOR INSURANCE REFORM. Mr. Simons Will Go Back to Enid and Resume the Practice of Law—Commission Did Not Expire Until 1907. Guthrie, Okla., Jan. 22.—Governor Frantz tonight announced the appointment of W.O. Cromwell of Enid, former populist leader, to be attorney general, beginning April 1, to succeed P.C. Simons, who today resigned. Governor Frantz also appointed U.C. Guss, president of the Guthrie National bank, delegate to the insurance reform conference in Chicago on February. Percy C. Simons, attorney general of Oklahoma being appointed nearly three years ago by Governor Tom Ferguson, today tendered his resignation to Governor Frank Frantz, and will locate in Enid in the practice of law. His commission does not expire until 1907, but he says he believes it the desire of Governor Frantz to surround himself with persons in some of the territorial offices who are closely identified with him personally and with his policies politically. [There is more] Published in The Oklahoman on January 25, 1906: Business Changes of Enid. Enid, Okla., Jan. 24.—The stock of the Peterman Shoe company, which recently went into bankruptcy, was sold today to A.C. Bower of Newton, Kansas, for $4,700. The North Enid flouring mill was sold today to Bert Cochran, for $9,060. Published in The Oklahoman on February 11, 1906: DISBARMENT SUIT AGAINST ATTORNEY TROUBLES OF BAR AND BENCH AT ENID RECEIVE FRESH RECRUITS. Enid, Okla., Feb. 10.—A sensational suit has been commenced in the district court of Garfield county against Chas. J. West, an attorney of this city, the object being to bar him from the practice of law. The petition was filed by Colonel John C. Moore of the law firm of Moore & Moore of Enid, and contains five special charges accompanied by affidavits. The charges made embrace extortion, false representation, swearing to falsehood and unprofessional conduct. C.J. West is the attorney who recently filed the charges against District Judge James K. Beauchamp, alleging misappropriation, etc., making a special trip to Washington with his charges. He is also lieutenant colonel of the First Oklahoma National guards. Published in The Oklahoman on February 14, 1906: ENID BOOSTERS. No "Knockers" in High Places in That City. Enid, Okla., Feb. 13.—The "boosters dollar dinner" given at Enid opera house last night was a success in every particular. 225 plates being laid when the roll was called, Toastmaster W.S. Whittinghill opened the fire works followed by Attorney General Cromwell and several other prominent business men representing all lines of business. As a result of the dinner the commercial club has been re-organized. L.J. Simmons being retained as secretary. The meeting adjourned about one o'clock this morning, all present resolving to "boost" for Enid to the best of their ability in every direction. Published in The Oklahoman on March 6, 1906: Aged Woman at Enid Dies. Enid, Okla., March 5.—Mrs. Elizabeth K. Jacobs, aged 73, who was injured in a runway about two weeks ago, died yesterday from the effects of her injuries. Farmer Commits Suicide Enid, Okla., March 5—Fred Grosso, aged 43, a prominent farmer living near Ringwood, Okla., committed suicide yesterday by shooting himself through the head with a revolver. He left a note dated March 1, saying he was tired of living. Published in The Oklahoman on March 10, 1906: ENID MAN COMMITS SUICIDE AT LAWTON L.A. TENNESON TAKES HIS LIFE ON ACCOUNT OF DESPONDENCY. Enid, Okla., March 9., --S.A. Tunneson of this city who committed suicide at Lawton, Oklahoma, today by poisoning was formerly in the hardware business in Enid, bur for the past couple of years has been on the road for various hardware and implement firms, the Planters Windmill company of Freeport, Illinois, being the latest. It is understood the reason of the suicide was that several of Tunneson's checks had been turned down by banks in Enid on account of no funds. Tunneson has been drinking hard for some time and leaves a wife and three children in bad circumstances. He was a member of the A.F. and A.M. lodge No. 19 of this city. Published in The Oklahoman on March 13, 1906: Prominent Enid Citizen Dead. Enid, Okla., Mar. 12.—J.W. Dillingham, aged 65, father of Jas. J. Dillingham, cashier of Oklahoma State Bank of this city, was found dead in bed at his son's residence at 5 o'clock this morning; death due to heart failure. Published in The Oklahoman on March 18, 1906: Fire Near Enid. Enid, Okla., Mar. 17.—The new 8-room residence owned by D.W. Bickell, a rural mail carrier two miles south of Enid, was destroyed by fire last night. Total loss on house and household goods estimated at $1,500, insurance $700. Published in The Oklahoman on March 23, 1906: Youth Attempts Suicide. Enid, Okla., Mar. 22—Leo Franklin, a lad fifteen years of age, who lived with a farmer near North Enid, attempted to commit suicide last night by taking rat poison. Prompt medical aid was all that saved his life. Published in The Oklahoman on March 25, 1906: Enid Coursing Meet. Enid, Okla., Mar.24.—Mr. Bert McFadden, president of the Waterloo Cup Coursing Club, and secretary of the Oklahoma Futurity, has arranged to pull off the best coursing event in the history of Oklahoma. This meet will be held Sunday, April 1st on the salt plains near Cherokee, under the auspices of the National Association, and some of the best dogs in the United States will participate. Mr. Amos Hands, an expert dog trainer in Enid, has a large number of hounds which have been shipped to him, in training, and an abundance of jack rabbits have been secured for the chase. The salt plains are a very interesting sight. There is no doubt that water once covered these plains which are now a vast expanse of salt, fifteen miles long and ten miles wide, as level as a floor and as white as snow, surrounded by very perceptible banks, an ideal place for coursing, with just enough sand mixed with the salt to give the dogs and rabbits good footing. A rabbit can be seen for miles. There is nothing to obstruct the view. An automobile will follow the dogs and gather them up after each race. Published in The Oklahoman on April 4, 1906: DOUBLE WEDDING Four Young People of Lamont Are Wedded at Enid Enid, Okla., April 3.—At the Methodist parsonage there occurred a double wedding just after the communion service at the church. The contracting parties were Prof. Wm. J. Robinson and Miss Maude May St. Clair and Mr. Vade H. Hawkins and Miss Bessie C. Taylor, all of Lamont, Okla. Rev. R.A. Barnes, pastor of the Methodist church, read the impressive ceremony of the M.E. church and pronounced the words which made the contracting parties husbands and wives for life, for weal or woe. Published in The Oklahoman on April 4, 1906: John Jenson, district court clerk at Enid, spent yesterday in the city. Published in The Oklahoman on April 8, 1906: ENID COURSING MEET Enid, Okla., April 7.—The first meeting of the Enid Coursing club held last Sunday on the Salt Plains, about thirty-five miles northwest of this city, was one of the most successful ever held in the southwest. The day was almost perfect, and the conditions could not have been improved. The attendance was far in excess of anything that had been dreamed of by the members of the club, there being fully 7,000 people present, and nothing occurred to mar the pleasure of the event. The salt plains, where the meeting was held, is a kite-shaped basin, fifteen miles long and about ten miles wide. It is level as a billiard table, and when the weather is dry, makes as fine a place for a coursing event as could be desired. The surface of the plain is covered with fine salt, with just enough sand in it to make a hard crust, and in the sunlight is a dazzling white-mesa. There is no dust, and the hares and dogs have a firm footing. Old coursing men claim that the Salt Plains are the ideal place for a meeting, and are enthusiastic over the meeting just held there. There were sixteen dogs entered in the event, and some of them were former prize winners. The first round resulted as follows: Dog—Sandusky, 27 points; J.R. Ricks, Tonkawa, Okla. Shaggy Jack, 2; J.W. Wher, Crescent, Okla. Pathfinder, 14; J.Amos Hands, Enid, Okla. Prince Albert, 0; R.H. Phelps, Buffalo, N.Y. Silvia Owens, 0; C.C. Stephens, Crescent, Okla. Stuttgart Girl, 17; F.M. Davis, Edmond, Okla. Croxie John, 25; F.J. Curtis, Enid, Okla. Babe E., 7; Joe Exton, Caldwell, Kans. Queen, 7; Frank Dixon, North Enid. Smoky Moke, 0; W.M. Brown, Crescent, Okl. Thistle Do, 0; Ollie Ostendorph, Enid Cincinnati Bob, 22; Call. Miller, Caldwell, Kans Navajoe, 5; John Burt; Enid. Oklahoma King, 7; F.M. Davis, Edmond, Okla. White Face, 8; D.A. Smalley, Caldwell, Kans. Lady Accurate, 0; James Hands, Enid, Okla. The second round resulted as follows: Sandusky 12; Pathfinder 3; Stuttgert Girl 5; Croxie John 0; Queen 0; Babe E 0; (Queen ran a bye race with Babe E.) Oklahoma King 9; White Face 3. In the semi-finals, Stuttgert Girl won over Sandusky, the score being 3 to 2, and Oklahoma King won over Queen, 14 to 1. The Finals was one of the prettiest rounds ever seen on any course, and resulted in Stuttgart Girl being the winner by a score of 8 to 1 over Oklahoma King. The winning dog is a very handsome hound, black and white, and is owned by F.M. Davis of Edmond, Okla. She is thirty-three months old, and is by Lord Butte and Miss Neversettle. The club hung up eight prizes for this event, the first being for $150, second for $100, two for $75 each and four for $25 each. The Enid Coursing club is regularly organized and licensed by the American Coursing board. C.S. McClellan is the president, and J. Amos Hands, secretary. John Oznun, sheriff of Canadian county was the official slipper, and Bert McFadden of this city, president of the Waterloo Cup Coursing club, was the judge. Great interest has been aroused in the territory since this meeting, and the Enid club is arranging to fit up a course on the fair grounds in this city, and have regular meetings. It is probable that there will be a meeting here about the middle of this month, when there will be dongs from several western states entered. The club will hang up purses for each meeting of the same size as those given at the Salt Plains event. Published in The Oklahoman on April 10, 1906: Cutting Scrap at Enid. Enid, Okla., April 9.—Kid Lucy and Ode Hines, two local gambles, had an argument last night which ended in Hines receiving a cut on the face four inches ling and reaching to the bone. Lucy was bound over today in $1,000 to appear before Justice Jacobs Thursday morning. Published in The Oklahoman on April 10, 1906: DEMOCRATS OF THE TERRITORY GATHER AT ENID FOR LOVE FEAST. Enid, Okla., April 9.—The democratic hosts have gathered tonight at the opera house to attend the big Jefferson Day banquet given under the auspices of the Cherokee Club of Enid. W.S. Whittinghill, of this city, is toast-master and responses are being made by many prominent democrats from all parts of the territory, including Hon. Wm. Cross, of Oklahoma City, Jesse Dunn, of Alva, Judge Billups, of Guthrie, Thomas Doyle of Perry, Judge Phelps, El Reno; Robt. Neff, Lawton; Hon. Frank Matthews, Mangum; Hon. T.P. Gore, Lawton; H.P. Francis, Elk City; Roy Stafford and Hon. E.L. Cralle, Oklahoma City. Several local democratic orators will also deliver short addresses. Published in The Oklahoman on April 15, 1906: Young Poole Eloe. Enid, Okla., April 14.—Daniel Lewis, aged 21, an employe of the Garfield County Milling company of Enid, has eloped with a 13-year-old girl of this city, named Mary Reed. No trace of the couple has been found. Published in The Oklahoman on April 17, 1906: CHILDREN FOUND DEAD. Two Enid Youngsters Met Horrible Death in Sand Pit. Enid, Okla., April 16.—Charles and Marie Pickett, aged ten and eight respectively, residing near the old water works plant in this city, left their home shortly before noon yesterday to play. As they did not return when dinner was ready, the mother, who was alone with the baby, became uneasy, but did not call for assistance until towards evening, when a searching party was organized to hunt for them. After several hours' fruitless searching someone suggested the sand pit, when the searches reached the pit about 2 a.m. today, and saw that it had recently caved in. The sand was carefully removed and the two children were found lying near each other, having been dead several hours. The funeral took place this afternoon from the Christian church. Published in The Oklahoman on April 19, 1906: PLEASES GARBER'S FRIENDS. Vernon Whiting and Everett Purcell Awaiting Their Turn at Counter. Enid, Okla., April 18.—The appointment of Milton Garber, to succeed Judge Beauchamp as judge of the Fifth district, was very enthusiastically received by Judge Garber's many friends in this city. It is understood here that the next move by the McGuire faction is the appointment of Vernon W. Whiting, the present postmaster of Enid, and McGuire's right- hand man, to be clerk of the district court under Judge Garber, and Everett Purcell, editor of the Enid Events, is slated for postmaster of Enid. Published in The Oklahoman on April 22, 1906: Moves to Enid. Hennessey, Okla. April 21.—George W. Bear, of the insurance and real estate firm of Bear & Westlake, has traded his property to Dr. C.O. Gore and located at Enid. Published in The Oklahoman on April 24, 1906: Injuries May Result Fatally. Enid, Okla. April 23. –While driving down the street about 5 o'clock today a horse driven by Julius Hamm of the Hamm Plumbing Co. of this city took fright and dashed down the street throwing Mr. Hamm to the street with such force as to render him unconscious. He also received internal injuries and at a late hour tonight his recovery is doubtful. Published in The Oklahoman on April 26, 1906: FIRST COURSING MEET AT ENID Two Thousand People Witness Exciting Sport—Good Purses Hung Up. Enid, Okla., April 25.—The first coursing meet of the Enid Coursing Club on the home grounds was begun this afternoon. The day was perfect and a crowd of about two thousand people witnessed the events. The first rounds only were run today and the meet will be finished tomorrow. The fastest round was in eight seconds and the longest one minute and thirty seconds. Following were the entries with scores: Happy Hooligun, 6, W.E. Harriman, Shawnee, Okla. Clorinda, 2, Cholocco Greyhound Kennels. Ffreesals, 3, Pearl Defrees, Crescent, Okla. The Flight, 6, D.K. Carter, Cottonwood Falls, Kas. Rosaletto, 7, Ollie Ostendorph, Enid. Chilocco, 3, Chilocco Greyhound Kennels. Queen, 2, Ffrank Dixon, North Enid. Oklahoma King, 3, Ray L. Aban, Edmond, Okla. Ethalyne, 1, Dick Bomwell, Blackwell, Okla. Lady Brandon, 6, W.E. Harriman, Shawnee, Okla. Pete, 5, Bumgardner Bros., Blackwell, Okla. Little Red, 0,E.W. Cronkhill, Enid. Sandusky, 22, J.R. Ricks, Tonkawa, Okla. Shaggy Jack, 1, Willard Wheer, Crescent, Okla. Midstar, 9, Ollie Paine, Blackwell, Okla. Nix Surprise, 7, Chas. Carr, Enid, Okla. Moutain Belle, 3, Col. Miller, Caldwell, Kas. Dr. Raillum, 5, J.M. Steiner, Geada Springs, Kas. Stuttgart Girl, 9, F.M. Davis, Edmond, Okla. Surprise Party, 4, A.E. Simmons, Chanute, Kas. Venus S, S.J. M. Stelner, Geada Springs, Kas. May Fly, 1, W.E. Harriman, Shawnee, Okla. Navaho, 0, John Burt, Enid, Okla. May Neversettle, 5, James Brown, Edmond, Okla. Croesus, 3, Joe Dxton, Caldwell, Kas. Croxie John, 2, R.Curtis, Enid. Miss Golightly, 2, C.E. Downing, Enid. Frenzie Finance, 0, A. Harbor, Enid. La Garela, 11, D.K. Carter, Cottonwood Falls, Kansas. Bright Light, 4, Loran Smith, Blackwell, Okla. Purses amounting to $500 were hung up for this meet. Published in The Oklahoman on April 27, 1906: O.F. CELEBRATE IN TWO TERRITORIES City of Enid Gayly Decorated for the Occasion Enid, Okla. April 26.—The business houses of this city were gaily decorated today with flags and bunting to assist the Odd Fellows in celebrating the eighty-seventh anniversary of that organization's establishment in America. Large delegations were present from all nearby towns and several hundred visitors were in the city to participate in the celebration. At 2 p.m. the Odd Fellows and Rebekah lodges formed at the Odd Fellows hall 1200 strong and headed by the Enid band marched to the opera house where the following program was rendered: P.E. Loving, N.G. of Enid, called the meeting to order. Address of welcome, E.L. Swigert, Enid. Address on Odd Fellowship, David Martin. Music. Address of welcome on behalf of Rebekah lodge, Sister M.E. Reger, P.P.R.A. Address by Sister Ida Beck, president of Rebekah assembly of Oklahoma. Music. Recitation by Sister Hattie Johnson. A banquet was given at Odd Fellows hall at 5 p.m. to visiting members and their families. Tonight various degree work of the lodge is being carried on. Published in The Oklahoman on April 27, 1906: SECOND DAY OF COURSING MEET Large Crowd Braved Wind and Dust to Witness Dog Races. Enid, Okla., April 26.—The attendance at the coursing meet today, was somewhat impaired by counter attractions, but about 1,200 braved the high wind and dust to winess the sport, which resulted as follows: First round—Happy Holligan 2; Flight Ntg. Chilocco 10; Oklahoma King 11; Lady Brandon 4; Pete 5; Sandusky 9; Mid Star 3; Doctor Radium 9; Stuttgart Girl 7; Venus S. 9; May Neversettle 2; Cressus 4; Miss Gollightly 13; Lady Temple, 5; Queen Alice 2; Lagarita 4. Second round—Happy Hooligan 14; Oklahoma King 13; Pete 6; Sandusky 7; Dr. Radium 11; Venus S. withdrawn; Miss Golightly 13; LaGracia 5; Lady Tempet by. Third round—Oklahoma King 8; Sandusky 16; Dr. Radium 6; Lady Tempest 3; Miss Golightly by. Semi-final—Sandusky 3; Miss Golightly5; Dr. Radium by. Final—Dr. Radium 2; Miss Golightly Bert McFadden judge; John Ozmun, sheriff of Canadian county, official slipper; L.J. Simmons, official scorer. Published in The Oklahoman on April 28, 1906: Enid, Okla. April 27.—J.A. Ramsour, aged 58, a prominent grain dealer of North Enid, died last night of apoplexy. His home is in North Enid. Published in The Oklahoman on May 2, 1906: FREIGHT BRAKEMAN KILLED AT ENID Clothing Caught to Cattle Guard and Threw Him Under the Engine. Carl White, a Rock Island freight brakeman, was instantly killed in yards here at 11 o'clock last night by a southbound passenger while he was riding the pilot of the engine to the end of the siding to turn a switch. He reached the switch all right, but his coat caught and threw him under the wheels of the engine, which completely severed his head from his body, throwing this body outside and his head inside the rails. The remains were sent to Lawton, Okla. This morning. Published in The Oklahoman on May 3, 1906: Enid High School. Enid, Okla. May 2—The commencement exercises of the Enid high school were held tonight, fifteen graduates receiving their diplomas. The principal address was delivered by David R. Boyd, president of the State University at Norman, Okla. Out of 135 scholars enrolled, the average attendance during the term was 123. Published in The Oklahoman on May 13, 1906: The G.A.R. Encampment James G. Unger. James G. Unger, of Enid, is the retiring adjutant general of the depart of Oklahoma and he has made a reputation in this position second to none. He desires no position in the Grand Army at this time except that of delegate to the next grand encampment to be held at Minneapolis, for which position he is a candidate. Comrade Unger is a native of Philadelphia, and was born in 1837, being now past sixty-nine years of age. He came west in 1858, locating at Burlington, Iowa, where on May 15, 1861, he enlisted in the First Iowa cavalry, where the regiment was organized and equipped. He served during the war in the army of the frontier and the tenth army corps, for a time being with General Custer, in Texas, during the reconstruction period. While he experienced many hardships, was in many engagements, and had two horses shot under him, he never received any wounds requiring hospital treatment, and is very active for his age. He was mustered out of the service March 15, 1865, at Davenport, Ia. Comrade Unger came to Enid in 1893, and has resided here since. Published in The Oklahoman on May 15, 1906: Smith is Attorney General. It is being proved daily that W.O. Cromwell, of Enid, is attorney general in name only, and that Don Carlos Smith, the assistant, is actually filling the place and doing the work. There has been not one thing in a legal line accomplished by Cromwell since taking the office on April 1, and he is now in Washington on a "pie counter" errand, while Smith is in St. Paul, Minn., before the federal court of appeals, representing the territory in numerous important cases, wherein convicted persons are trying to secure their freedom. The fact that Smith has been doing all the work has attracted considerable comment here, whereas before the main work was always looked after by Attorney General Simons. Since going into office, Cromwell has never been in the office three consecutive days, but has spent the most of his time traveling around on political missions. He has made several speeches—at Muskogee, Edmond and other places—but so far as can be learned has never appeared in court for the territory since taking the office. Smith, instead of Cromwell, is also looking after all pardon matters and other office work for the governor, instead of Cromwell. Published in The Oklahoman on May 16, 1906: Will Head Enid Schools. Mason City, Illinois, Man Gets Good Berth in Territory. Enid, Okla. May 15.—Prof. T.W. B. Everhart, of Mason City, Ill. vice president of Central Illinois teachers association, was appointed superintendent of the city school at a salary of sixteen hundred a year, vice J.S. Gifford resigned. Published in The Oklahoman on May 18, 1906: Enid Citien Here. L.J. Simmons, secretary of the Enid Chamber of Commerce, arrived in the metropolis yesterday morning and spent the afternoon buttonholing the Grand Army veterans and extending an invitation on behalf of that enterprising Garfield county capital city, to hold next year's encampment there. Mr. Simmons is an Enid enthusiast of the thirty-third degree kind and in telling of Enid's growth this spring, and the building operations there, he said: "A $150,000 hotel is being built, the new $100,000 court house is under construction, and immense flouring mill is also being erected, brick business blocks, and residences are being constructed in many portions of the city. Enid wants to entertain the next encampment delegates. Published in The Oklahoman on May 18, 1906: An Incendiary Fire. Waukomis, Okla., May 17.—About four o'clock this morning fire was discovered in the butcher shop of Overstreet and Sibbit, which had been closed for some time. The bucket brigade did noble service, in the open space of only eight feet between other frame buildings at which the fire was checked. Chas. Moore, Farmer's and Merchant's bank, Mr. Gray, postoffice and the Hornet office removed to the street. It is generally supposed that the fire was started by incendiarism. This is the fourth big fire in Waukomis and they all started about the same time in the morning. It is understood that the burned district will soon be replaced by brick structures. The loss was not more than two thousand dollars in damage but the excitement was intense. The waterworks and the salaratus wagon saved the town with the assistance of the bucket brigade. Published in The Oklahoman on June 9, 1906: IN PISTOL DUEL STEP-BROTHER STEALS SISTER AND IS KILLED WHILE FLEEING. CONFESSES TO A MURDER Young Ward Says He Killed Martin Julian, for Which Al Harpster is Penalized. Enid, Okla., June 8.—A young man named Cole, living near Lahoma, twelve miles from here, kidnapped his 15-year-old-step-sister, May Ward, last night, taking her away from her father at the point of a Winchester. Sheriff Campbell of this city was notified and he and his deputy, Chas. Campbell, left for the scene calling on Deputy Sheriff Burwell, of Woods county, to assist them. They came up to Cole and the girl about noon today. Cole fired on the officers as soon as he saw them. The fire was returned by Chas. Campbell and Cole fell. He was mortally wounded. Cole died tonight. After being wounded in a wheat field near Enid, where the battle with the posse occurred he confessed to having killed Martin Julian near Ponca City last fall, for which crime Al Harpster is now serving life in Lansing penitentiary. Harpster was recently convicted in the Kay county district court, stoutly maintaining his innocence. At the time of Julian's death, he and Harpster were driving near Ponca City with two girls. A fight occurred and Julian was found dead. The girls and Harpster testified that they were fired upon from ambush. Published in The Oklahoman on June 10, 1906: Harpster Will Be Happy. Guthrie, Okla. June 9.—Attorneys here will tomorrow notify Al Harpster, who is serving a life sentence in the Lansing penitentiary, that he has been cleared of the murder of Martin Julian, which occurred near Ponca City last June, by the dying confession of Cole Ward, who was shot by a posse near Enid, Friday, after eloping with his step-sister. The matter of securing Harpster's release will be taken before Governor Frantz immediately. Published in The Oklahoman on June 17, 1906: SNAKE BITTEN Byron Ward So Afflicted, Contrasting Infection When a Child Told Mother of Shooting Hearing of a New Trial for Al Harpster Who is Serving a Life Sentence. Perry, Okla., June 16.—The hearing for a new trial for Al Harpsters, sentenced for life for the murder of Martin Julian a year ago at Ponca City, was heard here today. Several witnesses were introduced to show a confession of the murder by Byron Ward, who was killed by a sheriff's posse, at Enid, last week. Ward's mother testified that Byron came home late on the night of Julian's death and told her he had shot a man while holding him up. He stated he did not know who the man was. Byron left home and came back but once since, until June 7th, when he abducted his half sister and was shot by the officers in pursuit. Ward confessed to the killing of Julian to Sheriff Campbell and his deputy at Enid, just before he died, giving the details of the crime. His mother stated today that Byron was snake bitten when a child and had been addicted to insane spells ever since. It is the belief here that he was suffering from the delusion that he killed Julian and had nothing to do with the murder. Judge Hainer heard the testimony and gave the attorneys for Harpster ten days to file a brief and five days for the territory to answer. The question involved is the admissibility of the confession if a new trial is granted. Published in The Oklahoman on June 20, 1906: In the case of the territory versus Bert McFadden, at Enid the other day, the defendant pleaded guilty to conducting a billiard room on Sunday and was fined one dollar. Published in The Oklahoman on June 22, 1906: A field trial club has been organized at Enid, and the first meeting is scheduled for the last of September. Between the dates of the Nebraska and Texas state meets, the club expects to have fifty or more of the finest dogs in the United States entered. Only birddogs, pointers and setters, will be admitted. The directors of the new club include M.M. Kelly, A.P. Wilcox, J.M.L. Shobe, Harry Eggleston, Roy Corry, C.E. Dewing, J.H. Shaw and Dr. L.R. Richardson. Published in The Oklahoman on June 23, 1906: CRUSHED UNDER WAGON. Lad Falls From Farm Wagon and Meets His Death. Enid, Okla., June 22.—Ernest Bowerman, aged 9 years, while attempting to alight from a heavy farm wagon in which he was riding, fell under the wheels and received internal injuries which will doubtless prove fatal. Published in The Oklahoman on June 27, 1906: BAD FIRE AT ENID. Gasoline Lamp Lets Go and Serious Results Follow. Enid, Okla. Of June 26.—A fire at 7 o'clock this evening caused by an explosion of gasoline lamps, completely destroyed Bhown's pool hall and the city's business office. For a while the firm threatened the entire block. It was finally confined to the pool hall, both buildings on each side being brick. Loss is about $5,000. Several firemen were slightly injured during the fire by a falling awning. Mayor Powers and Street Commissioner Sam Reeves, were also among those injured, the latter it is thought seriously. Published in The Oklahoman on July 1, 1906: Jake Robberts, it is reported, will be a republican candidate for congress in the Enid district. Published in The Oklahoman on July 11, 1906: FIRST ANNUAL MEETING OF THE SPANISH WAR VETERANS HELD IN ENID. CHARLES HUNTER HONORED Guthrie Was Selected as the Next Place for Meeting—Oklahoma City Men Honored Enid, Okla., July 10.—The first annual reunion of the Spanish-American war veterans of Oklahoma was held here today 100 visitors being present and entertained by the local camp, which is composed of 35 members including Gov. Frank Frantz. Among the visitors present were Gov. Frank Frantz, General Niles, Guthrie; Captain Chas. Hunter, Oklahoma City; Commander Mitchell, Guthrie; John Meyers, Oklahoma City; Captain Fred W. Hunter, Oklahoma City; and commander Earl Bohnan of Muskogee. A smoker was given the visitors this evening at the residence of Colonel Charles J. West, of Oklahoma National Guards. The following officers were elected this afternoon: Charles Hunter, Oklahoma City, department commander; Alva J. Niles, Guthrie, Senior-vice commander; Ira L. Reeves, Muskogee, junior vice commander; Charles West, Enid, judge advocate general; Dr. W. J. Boyd, Oklahoma City, sergeant general; Winfield Scott, Enid, inspector general; Chir T. Madsen, chaplain. An advocate committee of eight was also named consisting of Captain Frank Frantz, Captain Fred Hunter, Captain John Alley, M.W. Carcoots, Frank Carson, Captain Osborne, M.E. Williams, and the commander of Vinita camp. The next meeting will be held in Guthrie, Okla., at call of the commander. The convention in the evening was entertained at a banquet tendered by Col. Chas. West at his home. The ceremony was featured by the invitation of Governor Frantz to membership with the veterans. In his address upon the opening of the convention, General Alva J. Niles said: "Comrades of the United Spanish War Veterans: "In calling to order this first department encampment of the United Spanish War Veterans in the new state of Oklahoma and the beautiful city of Enid, I congratulate you on the pleasant circumstances and agreeable surroundings under which you are here assembled. We are here today convened as a happy, united band, bound together in the never ending ties of comradeship and union, with all our differences forgotten, all unworthy bickerings laid aside, all petty ambitions smothered, in one strong, fraternal association which shall be perpetuated for good, noble and lofty purposes as long as a veteran of the Spanish war shall continue in existence. [speech continues] Published in The Oklahoman on July 25, 1906: Mr. and Mrs. C.J. Turpin of Enid spent Sunday with friends in this city. Published in The Oklahoman on July 27, 1906: J.C. Robberts of Enid, republican candidate for congress from the First district, was in the city yesterday. Published in The Oklahoman on July 31, 1906: IN THE BRUSH ANTI M'GUIRE FORCES MAKING A DILIGENT CANVAS FOR DELEGATES. SOME POLITICAL GOSSIP Judge Cromwell, Believes the Party's Interests Will be Convened by Bird's Retirement. Enid, Okla., July 30.—The announcement of the early congressional convention for the First congressional district of Oklahoma, in which this, Garfield county, is situated, has caused the opponents of the candidacy of Hon. Bird S. McGuire, the present delegate to congress, to sit up and take notice. The early convention was not looked for, and came as a surprise to nearly all. Garfield county is the home of several republican politicians of prominence. They have had their eyes longingly on the seat in congress that has been warmed for the last four years by McGuire, and they had determined to capture the nomination, if such a thing were possible. In a quiet way the wires had been laid some time ago, but no active work had been done, and no announcements had been made. It was not thought that the time had arrived to announce their candidacy, and when the territorial central committee met in Guthrie recently, there was nothing apparently to disturb the harmony of the meeting. However, the wise political leaders, believing that there might be some new Moses come to lead the hosts of republicans, and judging it wise to take time by the forelock, the convention was called with only a month in which to make the campaign. This action on the part of the territorial convention, immediately caused the announcement of the candidacy of Hon. J.C. Robberts of this city, and he has been actively at work in his canvass since that time. He selected as his campaign manager that astute politician, Bill Grimes of Kingfisher, for many years territorial secretary. Judge Jake Robberts, as he is familiarly known all over the territory is a native of Iowa, where he received his education. In his early manhood he moved to Nebraska, settling in David City, where he began the practice of law, and incidentally, politics. He represented his home district several terms in the Nebraska legislature, and when Oklahoma was opened, came here as the receiver of the land office at Kingfisher, where he resided for several years. He was attorney general of Oklahoma for nearly three years, resigning to go into the private practice of law, moving to Enid about two years ago. He is well and favorably known in every county in Oklahoma, and if he receives the nomination for congress, there would seem to be little chance for a democrat to defeat him. This city also has two other candidates for republican nomination for congress. Judge W.O. Cromwell, the present attorney general, is one of them and N.L. Houston, is the other. Cromwell is determined to defeat McGuire for the nomination, even if he cannot secure it himself. He has a deep and lasting hatred for the present representative, and although through his present connection with the administration, a member of "the machine," he opposes McGuire at every step. The third candidate, Mr. Houston, has for several years been the chairman of the Garfield county central committee, and is an avowed supporter of Mr. McGuire. His announcement as a candidate was only made within the last twenty-four hours, and came as a surprise to some of McGuire's supporters. It is openly charged by the Robberts and Cromwell interests that Houston's candidacy is for the purpose of dividing the delegation with them, and at the proper moment to throw it to McGuire. This charge, it will be hard for Mr. Houston to overcome, and it is not believed that he will be able to secure any part of the delegation, but will make Mr. McGuire's road more rocky. Enid being the home of Governor Frantz, the people of this city take a lively interest in his career, and not withstanding the fight now being made on him, his friends still have the same confidence in him that they had when he lived here and was a plain hardware merchant. They believe that he is the right sort, and has the right kind of "stuff," in him to carry the new state for governor, and will insist that he be the nominee when the state convention is held. The time for this convention is still far off, and by that time the lieved here. Should Frantz be the nominee of the republican party for governor, the favorite candidate or the governor's enemies may have succeeded in downing him, but this is not be- democrats for member of congress from this district, Hon. Edmond Frantz, the governor's oldest brother, will hardly be a possibility, although at this time he has considerable strength. Garfield county is determined to capture the nomination for congress for both the old parties. In addition to Edmond Frantz, there are several democrats in a receptive mood, and some of them are making still hunts. Among those favorably spoken of in this connection are lion. J.Y. Callahan, Colonel John C. Moore and Colonel Charles J. West. Of those, Callahan seems just now to be in the lead. He is the only man who ever defeated a republican for congress in this territory; he is strong with the old line populists, and as a pronounced prohibitionist, would poll the votes of that element in the republican party. While he is not making an active canvass, it is known that he would accept the nomination if tendered him. Colonel Moore and Colonel West are both well and favorably known, and have considerable strength, but neither of them would presumably be candidates against either Edmond Frantz or Mr. Callahan. Garfield county has other candidates, or at least others have been mentioned in connection with some of the state offices. The Garfield County Democrat, in a recent issue, nominated Dr. M.A. Kelso for the office of governor on the democratic ticket, and presented some pretty good reasons why he should be thus honored. Suppose that Governor Frantz should be nominated by the republicans, and Dr. Kelso by the democrats, this city would be the center of the battle ground in the state campaign. The doctor has been for four years the chairman of the county central committee, and is a politician of no mean note. He has a wide acquaintance throughout the territory, so that the democrats of this county look upon him as a logical candidate. He so far refused to consider the proposition, but if the nomination was tendered him, would accept it, and make an aggressive campaign. Published in The Oklahoman on August 2, 1906: A WRONGED WIFE LOOKS UP HUSBAND ENID BUSINESS MAN AND PARAMOUR HIKE WHEN WIFE AND BABIES APPEAR. Enid, Okla., Aug. 1—Ceril Carpenter, proprietor of the Quick Lunch restaurant, and a woman calling herself his wife, who came here about four months ago from Columbus Junction, Kansas, left town suddenly last night on account of the appearance here of his lawful wife from Iowa, whom he deserted for the woman, Psyche Kletz, who has been posing as his wife and running the business. Mrs. Carpenter and two children have taken charge of the business here. Published in The Oklahoman on August 2, 1906: ROBBERTS OUT WITHDRAWAL CAME AS A SURPRISE TO THE ANTI FORCES. FIGHT CENTERS ON CROMWELL MGuire is Whipping the Belligerents into Line—Who Will Resort to the Ballot. Enid, Okla., Aug. 1.—The sudden determination of Hon. J.C. Robberts of this city to withdraw from the race for the nomination for congress from the first district, was a body blow to the opponents of the "tight-wad" machine, which had looked upon him as the Moses who would deliver them from the hands of the McGuire faction. The withdrawal came as a bolt of lightning from a clear sky, and Robberts' friends, few of whom had been consulted in this move, were paralyzed. This withdrawal now leaves Attorney General Cromwell as the only formidable opponent to McGuire in the First district, the candidacy of Mr. Houston being looked upon as a joke. [the article continues] Published in The Oklahoman on August 5, 1906: Governor and Mrs. Frank Frantz are entertaining at the mansion house on East Noble avenue this week the governor's mother, Mrs. M.J. Frantz of Enid; Miss Emma Frantz of Matamora, Ill., Miss Nita Frantz of Wellington, Kansas, and Miss Ruth Whitson of Enid.—Guthrie Leader. Published in The Oklahoman on August 15, 1906: At the Baptist parsonage last evening Rev. H.A. Porter solemnized the nuptials of Amos G. Lamb of Enid and Miss Leona E. Southers of Cleveland. They will remain in Oklahoma City a few days, later going to Enid to reside. Published in The Oklahoman on August 17, 1906: Mrs. Hill is Buried. South McAlester, I.T., Aug. 16—The body of Mrs. J.A. Hill who died yesterday morning at Mercy hospital in this city, was taken to Sulphur this morning for burial. Mrs. Hill was the wife of the former cashier of the South McAlester Union Exchange bank. Her father, E.O. Moore, who used to edit the Enid Democrat, resides at Sulphur. Published in The Oklahoman on August 18, 1906: NOMINATIONS IN BIG $6,500.00 CONTEST Here is the complete list of Candidates nominated in this Big $6,500.00 Popular Voting Contest up to noon Saturday. 2,000 names in the list and the Contest has begun in earnest. The people will now choose their favorites and give them their support and votes. For the next thirteen weeks there will be a thrilling and exciting contest, if the character and popularity of the Candidates nominated foretell anything. At the end of that time some fortunate man or woman will win the $3,000.00 Prize Home in Putnam Addition. It is almost impossible to believe that for a little effort you can win almost $250.00 a week in thirteen weeks. Who will be the successful one? It might as well be you. Your chance is as good as another's. A week from today The Oklahoman will publish the standing of the Candidates for the first time, at the same time announcing the winners of the $40.00 in Gold to be awarded those having the most votes by next Friday night at 10 o'clock. Rush in your votes for your favorite Candidate. A good start is half the race. Delay endangers success. DIVISION II. A Special Cash Prize of $20.00 in Gold will be awarded to the Candidate in this Division having the largest number of votes at 10 p.m., Friday, August 24. District A. Two Attractive Special Prizes will be awarded in this District, one to the man and one to the woman, having the largest number of votes at 10 p.m., Saturday, September 22. WOMEN. [only Enid people listed] Bisby, Edith, Enid, Okla. Shaw, Minnie, Enid, Okla. Fleming, Blossom, Enid, Okla. Dallon, Dortha, Enid, Okla. Corbett, Gertrude, Enid, Okla. Johnson, Hetta, Enid, Okla. Moore, Hazel, Enid, Okla. Scudder, Ida, Enid, Okla. Joseph, Edith, Enid, Okla. Smith, Lena, Enid, Okla. Purcell, Georgia, Enid, Okla. MEN. Buttrey, Frank, Enid, Okla. Bumstead, G.M. , Enid, Okla. Deprater, Rev. Father, Enid, Okla. Lenlon, Jim, Enid, Okla. Brown, W.E. , Enid, Okla. Barr, A.F. , Enid, Okla. Asber, M.D. , Enid, Okla. Alion, Harry, Enid, Okla. McFadden, Burt, Enid, Okla. Ewalt, Tom, Enid, Okla. Musgrove, J.C. , Enid, Okla. Finley, J. , Enid, Okla. Wilcox, W.P. , Enid, Okla. Edwards, Harry S. , Enid, Okla. Lopeman, J.A. , Enid, Okla. Luft, Fred, Enid, Okla. Kennedy, W. , Enid, Okla. Porter, C.V. , Enid, Okla. Kennedy, John, Enid, Okla. Kelso, Dr. , Enid, Okla. Evans, C.S. , Enid, Okla. Cromwell, A.A. , Enid, Okla. Decker, Frank, Enid, Okla. Clevinger, J.W. , Enid, Okla. Girt, J.T. , Enid, Okla. Published in The Oklahoman on August 19, 1906: Hobart Defeats Enid. Enid, Okla., Aug. 18.—Hobart defeated Enid today in the second of the three three-game series, at Enid. Score: Hobart….1 0 4 0 0 0 2 0 0 -- 7 Enid…….0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 – 1 Batteries—Hobart, Yeager and Crawford; Enid, George and McKenzie. Hits off Yeager 4, off George 11. Struck out by Yeager 10, by George 1. Bases on balls off Yeager 1, off George 5. Errors—Hobart 0, Enid 1. Home run—Nickell; two-baggers—Tarr, Yeager. The teams play again tomorrow. Published in The Oklahoman on August 23, 1906: The Enid Motor Car company, of Enid with $20,000 capital stock; the incorporators are C.S. McClelland, C.A. Myers, J.P. Marshall and W.A. McQuilkin. Published in The Oklahoman on August 29, 1906: CIRCUS MAN HAS BOTH LEGS CUT OFF BY TRAIN Enid, Okla., Aug. 28—Early this morning while the Sells-Floto circus was leaving here for El Reno over the Rock Island, William Gavin, a bodyguard of the cashier of the circus, who was standing on the platform of the sleeper, fell to the tracks and in trying to regain the platform, was pulled under the coach. His left leg was severed above the ankle, his right leg above the knee. It is thought he will not recover. Published in The Oklahoman on September 4, 1906: STABS AN ENID MAN AND THEN SKIPS OUT Enid, Okla., Sept. 3—Labor Day was observed here by a monster parade, 1,000 men being in uniform. A picnic was held at South Park, speeches being made by C.C. Worrell and Hon. J.Y. Callahan, democratic candidate for congress from this district. In an altercation on the street here this afternoon Frank Stowe, a saloonkeeper, was seriously cut in the abdomen by a gambler named Fisher Bolding, who was arrested, but released on bail. It is said he has disappeared. The Enid fire department baseball team played a game of ball on the home grounds with the Garber team and was defeated, 5 to 4. Published in The Oklahoman on September 6, 1906: ENID MAN SAYS IT'S UP TO UNCLE SAM TO DISPOSE OF THE REVOLUTION IN CUBA Enid, Okla., Sept. 5.—H.D. White, of this city, who has extensive landed interests in Cuba, is in receipt of a letter from Charles M. Lewis, formerly of Enid, dated at Arroyo Arenas, in Havana province, twelve miles from the city of Havana, which sheds some new light on the troubles which the island government is now experiencing. The letter was dated last Saturday. In speaking of the war now being prosecuted against the government, Mr. Lewis says: "I suppose you know by this time that we have war in Cuba, and it is no bluff. It looks as though the revolutionists mean business. [paragraph continues] Mr. Lewis and several other Enid capitalists went to Cuba a year ago, and purchased 1,000 or 1,200 acres of tobacco and fruit lands. They have commenced to improve this property, and this year have eighty acres planted to tobacco and set in pineapples. This land during the year has increased largely in value, and is now worth three times what it was when Mr. Lewis purchased it. [paragraph continues] Mr. White also has a letter from John Rutter, formerly postmaster at Waukomis, this county, who is now located at Los Palacious, province of Pinar del Rio, 75 miles west of Havana, near where Mr. White's property is located. Mr. Rutter says that the revolutionists are very active and that the ranks are filling up very fast. They have stolen many horses and cattle. The Americans have built stockades in which to hold their stock, and keep guard over them day and night. He says that the government troops are of no avail, as the rebels have many hiding places to which the soldiers dare not go, and that it would be an impossibility, with the friendly relations between the rebels and the rural population, to stop the revolution. Published in The Oklahoman on September 8, 1906: ENID WOMAN DIES. Enid, Okla., Sept. 7.—Mrs. George Misner, aged 66, wife of the proprietor of Misner's hotel and an old and highly respected citizen of Enid, died suddenly this morning at her home in this city. Published in The Oklahoman on September 14, 1906: THROWN INTO TANK OF BOILING WATER AWFUL EXPERIENCE OF AN ENID MAN MAY RESULT IN HIS DEATH Enid, Okla., Sept. 13.—Thrown into a tank of scalding hot water out of which he crawled on his hands and knees, his body nearly cooked, was the terrible experience of Washington Jett, one of the proprietors of the Enid Machinery and Supply company, near this place last night. Mr. Jett was operating a threshing machine when it exploded, hurling him twenty feet through the air and into the vat of boiling water. He was rescued as soon as fellow laborers could reach him, but his recovery is extremely doubtful. Published in The Oklahoman on September 18, 1906: SCHOOL PROFESSORS IN A SLANDER SUIT POND CREEK PRINCIPAL SUES ENID MAN FOR SAYING NAUGHTY THINGS. Enid, Okla., Sept. 17.—Suit has been filed in the district court of this county by Manatt and Sturgis, attorneys for Jean Madalene, principal of the Pond Creek, Okla., schools, and formerly principal of Kenwood school in this city, against Milton Wright, principal of Kenwood school, for $10,000, alleging slander. It is charged that Professor Wright has stated publicly that Madalene "had no respect for God, or for the institution of learning of this county." Published in The Oklahoman on September 19, 1906: WATERS OF RAGING RIVER ENGULF MANY SOULS WHEN TRAIN CRASHES THROUGH WEAKENED BRIDGE. Ten or Twelve Lives Lost in Awful Railway Disaster on Rock Island Near Dover Entire Train, Except Pullmans, Plunges Into Torrent of Waters Flanked by Treacherous Quicksands—That Any Escaped Is Little Short of Miraculous—Scenes Baffle Description MANY UNKNOWN DISAPPEAR BENEATH DARK WATERS Crashing off a weakened bridge over the Cimarron River, between Kingfisher and Dover,Oklahoma, yesterday morning, the engine and several cars of Rock Island passenger train no. 12, from Ft. Worth for Chicago, plunged into the swollen river and it is believed carried ten or twelve persons to their doom. Owing to the fact that only meager details could be gained at first, it was rumored that the loss of life would be as high as one hundred. Later information, however, indicates that probably only ten or twelve persons were swept to their death. While practically all accounts say that from eight to twelve were drowned, the only person on the train positively known to have perished is Hank Littlefield, an employee of the Forepaugh-Sells circuis. That the disaster was not of greater proportions, it is believed, wasin largemeasure due to the fact that the train, although several hours late, was running at only moderate speed. The track was soft and engineer Isles was cautiously feeling his way. As soon as he felt the bridge tremble, he train pulled apart, leaving passengers upon the track. An unconfirmed report from Kingfisher late last night stated that the bodies of sixteen victims were in an undertaking establishment there. Kingfisher, Okla., Sept. 18.—Eight people are dead, twenty more or less injured, and as many are missing in the most disastrous wreck in the recent history of the Rock Island, which occurred three miles from Dover, Okla., at 8:30 o'clock this morning. Following is a list of the persons rescued from the wreck who were injured. Except where injuries are mentioned in detail, the injury was slight. Child of Frank Ryel, Geary, Okla.; will die. E.L. Hegeson, Lone Tree, Ia. W.H. Spitzer, Enid; arm broken. J. Sneazen, Baraboo, Wis. J. Talbert, Yukon, Okla. F.N. Ball, El Reno. T.J. Smith, 31 Davidson street, New York. C.H. Copeland, Niobe, Kan. John Sullivan, Chicago. Mr. and Mrs. John Roll, Alta Vista, Kan. Mr. and Mrs. J.L. Robinson, Enid; Mrs. Robinson was badly cut on the hand. Mrs. Frank Ryel and two children, Geary, Okla. Joe Johnson, express messenger, Fort Worth. W.H. Palmer, Lawrence, Kan.; found floating on a car end ten miles below the scene of the disaster. George L. Wright, Denver, Colo. A.A. Hyatt, Virden, Okla. B.W. Brown, Comanche, I.T. Mrs. C.E. Huschler, Dallas, Tex.; back injured. I.S. Bigler, wife and two children; Goodland, Kan. Sheriff Love, Kingfisher, Okla. J.T. Nicholson, Kingfisher, Okla. Mrs. McLoud, Kingfisher, Okla. H. Utterback, Kingfisher, Okla. David J. Lan, Hillsboro, Texas; seriously injured head and back. Dr. Barnet, Vernon, Okla. I.H. Coy, Kansas, City, Mo. E.W. Bacon, Enid, Okla. Mrs. Kate Sells and 3-year-old child, Payne, O.; the child is seriously injured and may die. Simon W. Byron, fireman, Chickasha, I.T., shoulder dislocated. Engineer Isles, Chickasha; slightly injured on the head. S.D. Overton, mail clerk; bruised. A.C. Baldwin, Caldwell, Kan. A squad of four bill posters for the Sells-Floto circus were on the train. All but one of the party has been accounted for. The train porter is also missing and Mail Clerk Gamble, of Fort Worth, has not been accounted for. The engine, tender, baggage, mail cars, smoker and day coach of passenger train No. 12 northbound, left the high bridge that spans the Cimarron river and plunged into the current flanked by treacherous quicksands. The locomotive disappeared from sight almost immediately. The mail and baggage clerks escaped from their coaches and swam to the shore. The accident was due to the defective condition of the bridge which was swerved out of line by the pressure of drift wood carried down by the swollen stream. The train was an hour late and was running at high speed to make up the time. The engine driver did not see the condition of the bridge until he was within a few yards, when it was too late to stop. He shouted to his fireman, threw on the air brakes and jumped. He landed on the very verge of the river bank and escaped unhurt. The fireman was less fortunate, sustaining severe injuries. When the engine struck the bridge [article ends, but the front page contains many articles about this wreck, some of which I'll place below] Published in The Oklahoman on September 19, 1906: WAIT FOR CORPSES TO COME DOWN RIVER Guthrie.Okla., Sept. 18.—Governor Frantz this evening detailed the engineer corps of Lawton and a detachment of the signal corps, of Blackwell, in camp here with the Oklahoma National guard, to guard the banks of the Cimarron river near here and watch for floating bodies from the Rock Island wreck at Dover. The militia men are in command of Captain Frank King, of Lawton. Search lights are being thrown on the river tonight, but the current is so swift that it is difficult to do anything. A temporary telephone line is in operation between the river and town. Published in The Oklahoman on September 21, 1906: STREAM RISING Rescue Work at Scene of Disaster Is Hampered. CARS' LOCATION LOST Enid Woman, Hurt in Rock Island Wreck at Dover, Probably Will Die. Enid, Okla., Sept. 20.—Mrs. J.L. Robinson of this city, who was injured in the Rock Island wreck near Dover, is in a serious condition and her death is expected at any moment. Kingfisher, Okla., Sept. 20—Tonight the Cimarron river is rapidly and steadily rising. All work at the scene of the Rock Island wreck of Tuesday morning is at a standstill. The anticipation of reaching the submerged smoking and baggage cars by tomorrow or even the next day is now out of the question. The rescue party has lost all trace of the location of the two coaches. Both are thought to be entirely imbedded in sand. The new trestle, which, to replace the old bridge, extends perhaps 100 feet from each side of the river bank. The distance across the bed of the stream at it normal size, is a quarter of a mile. Rock Island officials said tonight that unless the water became too high the bridge would be re- opened for traffic late Saturday. This afternoon an unconfirmed report reached Kingfisher that the bodies of four men had been found in the Cimarron 20 or 25 miles from Dover. Reports to the contrary notwithstanding, neither the mail clerk Gamble nor Douglas, the negro porter, has been heard from. Most of the slightly injured victims of the wreck have left Kingfisher for their homes. Farmers living along the river and who are accustomed to its vagaries declare that the stream will not resume its ordinary size for at least a week. Tonight there is but little indication of interest at the spot where the train plunged into the river. A small crowd of searchers are examining the banks along both sides of the river for corpses among the weeds. People, whose homes border on the Cimarron, watched the muddy torrent all day long and tomorrow and every day until the cars in the river are reached and searched the stream will be closely watched for floaters. Published in The Oklahoman on September 27, 1906: PRESIDENT YOUNG ILL. Enid, Okla., Sept. 25.—James N. Young, president of the Denver, Enid & Gulf railroad, is ill in Chicago. His wife left here this evening for that city to be at his bedside. Published in The Oklahoman on September 29, 1906: AN EXPLOSION OF GASOLINE ENDANGERS LIVES AT ENID Enid, Okla., Sept 28.—A gasoline stove exploded this morning in Charles Stuttman's restaurant near the Rock Island depot while the place was filled with people eating breakfast, and they barely escaped with their lives, so rapidly did the fire spread. A large hay and feed store room adjoining, occupied by W.S. Grubb, also burned. Loss $2,500. Published in The Oklahoman on October 7, 1906: HORNER HAS HARD FIGHT. Enid, Okla., Oct. 6—After a spirited contest lasting from 11 a.m. until dark the republicans of the Eleventh district nominated Harry N. Horner for representative to the constitutional convention. Published in The Oklahoman on October 25, 1906: O.H. Emerick, former chief of police in this city, now a resident of Enid, was in the city last night. Published in The Oklahoman on October 30, 1906: WEDDING PERMITS. Marriage licenses were issued yesterday to the following: John F. Farney of Enid and Miss Cora Lewis of Oklahoma City. Published in The Oklahoman on November 8, 1906: Whiting Fires a Deserter. Vernon Whiting, of Enid, secretary of the territorial republican committee and United States court clerk in the Fifth district, announced today that he will ask immediately for the resignation of H.E. Fee, his deputy at Watonga, on charges that Fee openly worked against the republican ticket there. Fee has been making himself obnoxious politically for some time according to reports, and only recently was given a trouncing at the hands of Dr. A.L. Edgington, as a result of political disagreements. Even the McGuire fellows in Blaine county have kicked to Mr. Whiting in regard to the actions of Fee, who was appointed as a McGuire man. Published in The Oklahoman on November 8, 1906: Men Who Will Frame the New State's Constitution 11. C.H. Pitman, D. Enid, Okla. 13. Chas. L. Moore, D. Enid, Okla. Published in The Oklahoman on November 14, 1906: PASSING OF TWO PIONEER CITIZENS "DAD" JONES WAS BUILDER OF THE BALTIMORE WATER RESERVOIR. Guthrie, Okla., Nov. 13.—One of the few survivors of the border warfare days of early Kansas, including the John Brown anti-slave crusade, passed away at Enid yesterday, in the death of Mrs. Gigoux. She was one of the oldest persons living in Oklahoma, having been born in Finland, France, on December 24, 1814. She came directly to Eastern Kansas from France in 1840 and passed through all the terrors of border warfare and Indian raids. William Edward Jones, known wherever he had been employed in public works as "Dad" Jones, died yesterday at Ponca City. He was a native of Baltimore, Md., born there in 1832. His wife was Melvina Veach, a daughter of Judge William P. Veach of New Castle, Del. His wife and one son survive him. The son is X.W. Jones of Sherman, Tex. "Dad" Jones had been employed on public works the greater part of his life. He was roadmaster at one time for the Baltimore & Ohio, and later for the Delaware & Lackawanna. In 1875 he had charge of the construction of the water reservoir in Druid Hill park, Baltimore, and in 1874 was head of the construction of a tunnel under the city of Baltimore. In 1882 he was superintendent in charge of enlarging the ship canal of the Cotton Belt railroad, and later was foreman of construction for the Electric Belt line in Sherman. When the Cherokee strip was opened he came to Ponca City, in the employ of the Wells-Fargo Express company, and remained their agent here until last spring. He was an Odd Fellow, member of Rebekah lodge, and a member of the G.A.R., serving in the quarter-master's department during the civil war. Published in The Oklahoman on November 18, 1906: UNIVERSITY SITE SELECTED AT ENID A TRACT OF ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY ACRES HAS BEEN PURCHASED. Enid, Okla., Nov. 17.—The board of regents of the Oklahoma Christian university, which was recently located in this city, has purchased the L.T. Teemley farm adjoining the site of the university, on the east, for an agricultural, industrial and experimental farm. This farm consists of 160 acres, and the consideration was $12,000. Mr. Teemley had been offered $16,000 for the property recently, but when the local committee was soliciting donations and looking for sites he offered it at $12,000 providing the university was located here. This place is ideal for the use intended. It has a fine, rich soil, and has had intelligent cultivation since it came into Mr. Teemley's possession. It is stocked with an abundance of all kinds of fruit, the large orchard being in splendid bearing condition. On the farm will be taught the best methods of farming, and experiments will be made with every kind of crop, as well as fruit, which can be raised in this latitude. A chance will here be afforded young men who desire an education but are without means to earn their way through the university. Published in The Oklahoman on November 18, 1906: ENDORSE C.L. MOORE Enid, Okla., Nov. 17.—The Garfield county democratic central committee unanimously endorsed Charles L. Moore of Enid for president of the constitutional convention. Published in The Oklahoman on November 22, 1906: CURTIS DRY GOODS CO. OF ENID ENTERS BANKRUPTCY Enid, Okla., Nov. 21.—The F.D. Curtis Dry Goods company of Enid, one of the oldest firms in Oklahoma, today filed a voluntary petition in bankruptcy. The assets are given as $7,000; liabilities are not named. Published in The Oklahoman on November 29, 1906: CANDIDATE FOR GOVERNOR. Enid, Okla., Nov. 28.—Dr. M.A. Kelso, a prominent democrat of this city, has announced himself as a candidate for governor of Oklahoma at the next spring election. Published in The Oklahoman on December 14, 1906: FIND SUICIDE'S BODY IN POOL OF BLOOD ENID MAN WIRES BROTHER TO COME, THEN ENDS OWN LIFE. Enid, Okla., Dec. 13.—William Brenstein, a junk dealer of this city, and formerly of Huntington, Ind., aged about 35 years, committed suicide at this place of business by cutting a gash in his left arm four inches long and bleeding to death. It is supposed the deed was done Tuesday night, as he had not been seen from that time until this morning when his home was broken into and Brenstein found undressed in bed with a pool of blood beside him, having been dead some time. Brenstein wired his brother at Huntington Monday night: "Come to Enid at once." A reply was received from his brother Wednesday, but Brenstein could not be found, his place of business being locked up. No cause is known for the act, but a sealed letter which he left addressed to his brother may throw some light on the matter. Published in The Oklahoman on December 15, 1906: KILLS SELF FEARING WRATH OF THE LAW SUICIDE OF RUSSIAN JEW AT ENID EXPLAINED BY LETTER TO HIS BROTHER. Enid, Okla., Dec. 14.—The letter addressed to a brother in Huntington, Ind., by Wm. Brenstein, who committed suicide here Tuesday night, developes the fact that Brenstein who was a Russian Jew, unused to the United State laws, feared exile or something similar to it on account of having purchased some brass that had been stolen from the D.E. and G.R.R. here, but which he returned to the railroad when the goods were discovered in his shop. Carbolic acid was also used to hasten death in case the gashes in his arm failed. The body is still in possession of the coroner. Published in The Oklahoman on December 25, 1906: REAL ESTATE MAN WEDS. Lawton, Okla. Dec. 24.—L.D. Baker, one of the most prominent real estate dealers of the new state, who maintains offices in Lawton, Enid and Chicago, was married recently in the latter city to Miss Hazel Seeley, a young lady who has been his private secretary for several years and whom he has known from childhood. Mr. and Mrs. Baker will return to Oklahoma this week, first visiting Mr. Baker's mother in Enid, and then coming to Lawton, where they will doubtless remain the greater portion of the time. Published in The Oklahoman on December 27, 1906: COMMITS SUICIDE AFTER A LONG SPREE. Enid, Okla., Dec. 26.—After drinking heavily for several days Louis Chuda of Woodward county, Oklahoma, committed suicide at Goltry, a small town near here, at an early hour this morning, taking a dose of strychnine. Chuda formerly lived in Omaha, Neb. Published in The Oklahoman on December 30, 1906: [photo] caption: Mrs. R.A. Sweet of Enid, who was Miss Alta Beck of this City. -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Return to Garfield County Archives: http://www.usgwarchives.net/ok/garfield/garfield.html