Jackson County, Missouri - Chapter 18: Kansas City - Why She Is and What She Is, 1881 (part 2 of 2)

Buckley killed William Yocum in the old store room, on the south side of the square, owned by Moses Wilson. An altercation, urged on by whisky, took place, in which Buckley used a large stone and completely crushed the skull of his victim. After the escape of Gaster and Buckley, Gaster was recaptured in the southwestern part of this State, and returned to the jail here, but Buckley was never after heard from.

Gaster was tried, convicted and sentenced to be hanged. He was hung on the open common in the southwest part of the town on the loth day of May, 1839. This was the first and only legal hanging in Independence; but since there has been one legal hanging in Kansas City. The hanging of Gaster was witnessed by thousands who came from far and near. Two large posts twenty feet long were set in the ground, and a cross-bar connected the top ; this constituted the gallows. The doomed man rode upon his coffin which rested on the boards of a common wagon. Sheriff King adjusted the noose and Deputy Reynolds drew down the black cap. The wagon was driven from beneath and the murderer was ushered into eternity.

There was another escape from the jail by a murderer named John H. Harper. Harper shot and killed one Merideth, at an office near the southeast corner of the square, the difficulty having arisen from jealousy. Merideth with several companions had come from one of the eastern States and stopped here, to fit out for an overland journey to California. For it will be remembered, that parties starting for the Far West or New Mexico, were .here frequently fitted out with wagons, horses, provisions and other necessaries for the trip. Merideth and party had remained here several days, and had become acquainted with Harper and others. One day Harper invited Merideth to take a drink with him ; he did so and they both returned to his office, but soon Harper came running out calling for the sheriff, saying he had killed a man. A crowd immediately collected and found Merideth breathing his last. Harper was arrested and confined in the jail to await his trial. Before his trial came the prisoner had escaped by cutting through the wall of the jail. A reward was offerd for his apprehension and he was finally caught at or near Fort Smith on the Arkansas River. He was brought back, a change of venue was granted, and was acquitted by a court in Platte county.

In 1843 there was another escape from jail by two noted criminals, Orrin P. Rockwell and one Watson. Rockwell was arrested for the attempted killing of Governor Boggs. It was alleged at that time, that Joseph Smith, the Mormon Prophet, had promised Rockwell a fine horse and carriage to murder Governor Boggs.

It will be remembered that Boggs was Governor at the time the Mormons were driven out of the State, and Joe Smith charged upon Governor Boggs the responsibility of an order for the extermination of the Mormons. Rockwell, it was said, was sent here by the Prophet Smith. After Rockwell had worked for parties in Independence, becoming acquainted and acting as a spy under the assumed name of " Porter," he left, saying that he should not return. In a few days thereafter Governor Boggs was shot and severely wounded in the neck and head. Rockwell, who it is supposed committed the deed, rode away on horseback, crossed the Missouri River and made good his escape. He was afterward arrested in St. Louis and brought to this county for trial. As soon as the policeman drove into Independence with the prisoner he was recognized as the man who had called himself "Porter." The other man, Watson, confined with Rockwell, had been arrested for stealing a large amount of money in New Orleans. These two prisoners were considered very desperate and brave, so the shackles were placed around their ankles. A colored woman was accustomed to give them watermelons through the grated window, and, with a case-knife which they used to carve the melon, they sawed off the shackles' from their ankles, and when the deputy came in at night to feed them, they both rushed out and locked the officer in, and ran for the woods. They were, however, caught before they had proceeded far and again confined. Watson was acquitted for want of proof, and Rockwell after taking a change of venue, was discharged for the want of the appearance of the principal prosecuting witness. Watson, together with two other men, was arrested in Baltimore for the same offense as before, and all sentenced to a term of years in the Maryland penitentiary. The names of the two with Watson were Breedlove and HoUiday. Rockwell was afterward known in Salt Lake as a minion of Brigham Young for the assassination of whomsoever Brigham should designate. He is said to have been in the Mountain Meadow Massacre. It is interesting to trace the course of the Mormons from their first settlement in this country to their final journey over the Rocky Mountains ; and in another place in this work the reader will find a full history of the Mormons and their Prophet Joseph Smith, together with many incidents and experiences never before published.

There is yet another incident connected with the second jail, which transpired in 1843. An old man who had been m the Far West came to Independence nearly destitute, having insufficient clothing to keep him warm. He stole some old clothing, was arrested, taken before the Justice of the Peace and committed to jail. The old man's grief was unbounded, and to free himself from the troubles of this life, he undertook to cut his throat and sever the artery in his arm. He succeeded in cutting his arm nearly off, and his throat from ear to ear. This was in January, the weather was intensely cold, the old man over seventy, and it was difficult to keep life in his body, but finally he recovered and was discharged, a purse of money made up for him and he was sent east.

In the year 1852 George W. Reynolds was confined in jail for the stabbing and killing of John Blythe. Reynolds escaped and hid in a stable loft just out of town, but one John Reed saw Reynolds enter the stable. An officer was called and Reynolds was recaptured. He was convicted and sentenced to five years in the penitentiary, but before reaching the prison a pardon was obtained for him.

The First Sheriff

The first sheriff of Jackson county was Joe. Walker, who lived in Fort Osage township. He was appointed by Governor John Miller, in the year 1827, and on the 29th of March of the same year, was qualified in office before Circuit Judge David Todd. He afterward went to the mountains and recently died in California. He was a man of intrepid character, delighting in the excitements of the mountains. The second sheriff was Joe Brown, who was a lame man, and who after his term of office expired, removed to the "Platte Purchase" in the northwestern part of Missouri. Jabob Gregg, who now lives in Sni-a-bar township was the third sheriff He is living near Grain Valley. His father's name was Harmon

Gr^'i^g. Jacob Gregg was elected to the Legislature, the lower house, in 1850, and since has been a farmer. Tne fourth sheriff was John King, who was elected two terms, of two years each; in the year 1840, was sent to the Legislature with C. C. KLavenaugh. Although of limited education, he was a higtily respected, honest man. He biloaged to the numerous family of Kin^s most of whom reoDved to the " Platte Purchase." He died near Independence about thirtysix years ago. Joseph H. Reynolds was the fifth sheriff of Jackson county, serving two successive terms, from 1840 to 1844. Mr. Reynolds was elected to represent this county in the State Legislature in 1844, serving one term, and again in 1852 for one term in the Hojse of Representatives. He was a native of Kentucky, and came to Jackson county in the fall of 1834, and was elected Justice of the Peace in 1837, and he holds the same office at the present time in the city of Independence.

The next sheriff was Col. Thos. Pitcher, who now lives four miles southwest of Independence. He held the office one terra. He suffered during the war from depredations committed by marauding bands, his large and costly house was destroyed with other property. Benjamin F. Thompson was the seventh sheriff and served one term. He was subsequently elected to the Legislature. He died more than twenty years ago.

George W. Buchanan, now a member of the Independence bar, was the eighth sheriff and served two terms which lasted till 1852. Then again Benjamin F. Thompson was called to the office of sheriff for two years. William Botts, who now lives four miles northeast of Independence, was the tenth sheriff and served four years.

The next to be elected to that office was John W. Burris, who was qualified in August, 1858, and remaided performing the duties of sheriff till his death, which occurred during his second term. O. P. W. Bailey, his deputy, assumed the duties of sheriff and continued till the fall of 1862. John G. Hayden was the next sheriff and served part of two terms.

In 1870 James Gray who died in office was elected and served part of one term. C. B. L. Boothe became sheriff in 1872 and served two terms. O. P. W. Bailey was elected sheriff in 1876 and held that office till the fall of 1880, when the present sheriff, Mr. John C. Hope was elected and qualified.

There have been numerous escapes from the calaboose, but we have chronicled the most important in connection, with the jail. Herewith we append an ancient summons of the Justice of the Peace, Mr. Joseph H. Reynolds. It will be found of interest as a relic of arrest for debt. '

Summons From J. H. Reynolds The State Of Missouri

Greeting : We command you to summon Thomas G. Sharp to appear before the undersigned, one of the Justices of the Peace of Blue township, in Jackson county, on the 22d day of June, A. D., 1839, at ten o'clock in the forenoon at my office in the same township, to answer the complaint of Samuel D. Lucas and William W. Kavenaugh, partners, trading under the firm and style of, Lucas & Kavenaugh. Given under my hand this 22d day of May, A. D., 1839.

Joseph H. Reynolds

In the year 1834 there were two taverns, as they were called in those days, one kept by William Lawrence, on the present site of the Merchants Hotel, and the Other by Leonard H. Rennich, situated on the present site of the City Hotel. Mr. Smalwood Noland succeeded Lawrence, and »after the house burned, 19th of February, 1845, he erected the present building called the Merchants Hotel. Mr. E. P. West, who now lives in Kansas City, remodeled the building now known as the City Hotel. It was also called Twyman Hotel. Garnett and Modie opened the house which is now called the Jones Hotel, then known as the Nebraska House. It was built by Lewis Jones and finished by J. W. Modie, in the year 1849. The Farmers House was arranged and built only a few years ago, it is kept by Mrs. Martha Baker.

In the winter of 1847-9 the California excitement sprang up, but previous to this a few of our citizens of border life procKvities, and having tasted the sweets of said life, longed to know more of the vast region lying beyond the Sierra Nevadas. Lewis Jones, John Bartleson, L. W. Boggs, Major Hickman and others, fitted out an expedition, safely ciossed the barrier, and returned with favorable reports of the goodly land beyond - little dreaming of the immense wealth hidden away in its fields, and so soon to be developed and made attractive to thousands. The winter spoken of awakened attention to the auriferous region beyond the mountains, and as soon as the spring months permitted caravans to travel, all who could leave their home were on their westward journey. Independence was the prominent point for outfit and departure, and every description of vehicle was called into requisition. The pestilence which broke out among the vast multitudes, and slayed many, far away from home and friends, did not stop the onward progress of the rest. Thousands of them now live in that land, whose climate they say is the finest, soil the most fertile, winter the mildest, and regions the most healthful in the world. In the year 1850, David Waldo, Jacob Hale and Wm. McCoy received the contract for carrying the mail to Santa Fe and New Mexico, and Jas. Brown, (afterward Brown & S. H. Woodson,) to Salt Lake City. The first regular U. S. mail that ever passed the border left Independence in July, 1850, well guarded and prepared for defense against the hostile Indians. It was looked upon as extremely hazardous, and on its return in safety the second month, was hailed with joy as something wonderful in the history of the West.

Their first four years' contract was successfully fulfilled, and these mails were expected, and did, go and return more regularly than those within the States. Morse's invention of chaining the Hghtning and flashing thought along the wire with a rapidity outstripping time itself, was about this time introduced in Missouri, and our aid was invoked to assist in completing a line of telegraph to 'this place - it was accomplished without delay, and the battery was at work dispatching messages to every available point as early as 1850. The spirit of enterprise marked us as a people', and with a liberality equal to the occasion, the scheme of uniting the town and river landing by a railroad was soon entered into, and we can truthfully boast of having built the first three miles of railroad in the State. Like other measures projected and controlled by men ignorant of and unskilled in their business, the railroad proved a failure. The Santa Fe and Chihuahua traders continued to make this their place of outfit and departure until 1856, at which time the prairie country between here and the State line, became so attractive that the lands were inclosed into farms and the, roads turned into by-lanes so crooked that the traders were disheartened with the trouble and expense attendant on their trips to the line. Added to this, the changing current of the Missouri left us without a landing place, so that by compulsion, the trade driven from us, to other points west and higher up the river. Westport, Kansas City, Leavenworth and Nebraska City divided for many years, that which once concentrated here and built us up. Success, it is said, rides on every hour, grapple it and you may win, but without a grapple it will never go with you. Independence failed to grapple at the right time, but Kansas City did, an to-day she is. on the high road to renown. From her commanding position she might reach out the friendly hand, use all the available means for binding us more closely together, seek to fill up the intervening gap with costly villas, beautiful gardens, princely mansions and highly ornamented grounds, thus making us one and the same with herself. Then may the prophetic declaration of Gilpin be verified, and this become, as it of right ought to be, the center of the Union.

If there is anywhere, a place more interesting than this region of Missouri, we have yet to see it. And we have yet to find a country about which there is so much apprehension.

Turner & Thornton kept a banking house on the west side of the square as early as 1858. . The names of the proprietors were Ulysses Turner and James K. Thornton. A branch of the Southern Bank of St. Louis was established about this time, and both were engaged in business till the Civil War came on.

The Southern bank became a National bank after the war, and continued doing business till 1878, when it closed and settled up its business. The present banking houses are Chrisman, Sawyer & Co., McCoy & Son, and Anderson, Hughes & Co. No bank in Independence has suffered from the hard times which have frequently been experienced by other business houses of this character.

In the year 1857 a company was formed, known as the Independence Savings Bank. It afterward became Stone, McCoy & Co. In 1868 it was changed to Stone, Sawyer & Co., and again a few months later to Chrisman, Sawyer & Co., and on the 29th day of August, 1877, was incofporated under the title of Chrisman-Sawyer Banking Company. They occupy a handsome brick building, 40 by 60 feet, three stories high, with iron vaults, improved safes, etc. The building was erected in 1869, is now valued at about $18,000. Its capital stock paid in amounts to $70,000. Its present officers are: President, Wm. Chrisman; Vice- President, Samuel L. Sawyer ; Cashier, A. F. Sawyer, and Assistant CasMer, I. N. Rogers.

The following editorial in reference to the new bank building of Stone, Sawyer & Co., appeared in the Independence Sentinel October 3, 1869 :

" One of the most substantial and creditable improvements made in our city the present season, is the new bank building of Stone, Sawyer & Co. , on the corner of Liberty and Lexington streets. It is three stories high - has been erected at a cost of about $14,000, and is altogether an ornament to the city. The corner room is now about completed, and is occupied as the bank. It is fitted up very neatly, and with an eye to business, and few of our large cities can boast of more complete appointments. The large fire-proof safes are from the celebrated factory of McNeal & Urban, of Cincinnati, and are perfectly burglar proof, as well as handsome appendages to the building. The rear room will be occupied as a law office by Sawyer & Chrisman. The west room is now occupied by Ehinger & Co. , as a merchant tailoring and clothing establishment, and is very neady fitted up.

"The second story has been appropriated for offices, and will be occupied by Messrs. Barnes & Mercer, insurance agents, Mr. Walker Buckner as an insurance agency and Mr. Jno. H. Taylor, lawyer. Messrs. Bone, Gates, Comingo and Slover, as law offices. The entrance to the upper stories is between the First National Bank building and the room occupied by Ehinger & Co. Substantial iron steps and railing have taken the place of the old wooden ones, and for durability and neatness are a decided improvement. Large, roomy steps also enter from the rear of the building, which, in case of fire or accident would greatly facilitate the emptying of the rooms, or the safe retreat of a crowd in the hall above.

"The third story, not quite completed, is being fitted up expressly for a public hall, and will seat, comfortably, about 500 persons. It is well ventilated, and will be entirely free from any outside annoyances, and altogether, is the most comfortable and respectable hall in the city.

"The brick work was done by Wm. Randall, ihe carpentering by F. F. Yeager, the plastering by A. J. Liddell, the painting by Russell & Mossop, and the tin roofing and guttering by Bailey & Kessler, all workmen of our city, and great credit is due each and every one of them for the skill and workmanhke execution of their respective contracts."

Anderson, Chiles & Co., bankers, is one of the leading firms of Independence. It was established in March, r875, '^^''^'^ M- W. Anderson, C. C. Chiles, W. H. Hughes, H. C. St. Clair. Their capital stock paid in is $20,000.

The main part of the business houses are upon the public square, a number of which are doing as large a business as any of the retail houses in our commercial centers, the surrounding country being settled up by a wealthy farming communit)-, who have been convinced they are enabled to buy goods in Independence upon as favorable terms as they can in Kansas City, ten miles off.

Three hotels, the largest of which, the Merchants, owned and kept by R. K. Morgan, will compare in elegant accommodations with any to be found in the western country.

But few manufacturing interests have as yet been established; nevertheless, we know of no site or town in the west offering so many and favorable inducements for profitable investment of capital in this direction as we find in Independence.

The growing commerce of the prairies originated the necessity of establishments for outfitting purposes and repair shops, and in every quarter the blow of the hammer and ring of the anvil were heard from early dawn till late at night. Robert Weston and others for years supplied the wants of the traders. This continued till the Mexican troubles, when every point in the west was active in getting munitions of war. After peace was declared, the outposts necessarily estab lished on the borders were to be supplied, and the General Government gave employment to wagoners.

The manufacture of wagons for the Santa Fe trade was, in the early days of Independence, a large business. From 1845 to 1850 parties here built wagons to be used not only by the Santa Fe trader, but also for the emigrants going to California. Lewis Jones, Hiram Young, John W. Modie, and Robert Stone also carried on the business.

Flour mills were put up as early as 1835. One on the Little Blue, eight miles from Independence, was run by Michael Rice. Jacob Hallar, in 1846, built a mill in Independence. Afterward John A Overfelt, Waggoner & Son, and later under the name of Waggoner & Gates, built a flouring and woolen mill. The flouring mill was destroyed by fire some time after, but the woolen mill is still doing a large business. At one time there was a foundry in operation, but has been closed now for some time. All of the principal streets of the city are macadamized in the very best manner from rock obtained just east of the town 'site. The street running east and west on the south side of the Square is called Lexington street, and has a hard road-bed for more than a mile in length. Liberty street runs north and south on the west side of the Square, and is macadamized for at least a mile and a half. Rock street, which runs east and west on the north side of the square, is also macadamized through the town. Main street, running north and south on the east side of the square, is macadamized over three quarters of a mile in length. The Wayne City road is macadamized three and a quarter miles from the court house ; it runs from the public square in Independence to the bluff on the Missouri River at the Wayne City Landing, formerly called the old Independence Landing. These roads and streets are under the control of the street commissioner, whose business it is to see that they are kept in good order.

Incorporation

The Board of Councilmen of the city of Independence appeared at the upper room of the court house in pursuance of the proclamation of WiUiam McCoy, mayor, on the 20th day of July, A. D. 1849.

Messrs. J. B. Hovey, John W. Modie, Robert A. Stone, B. F. Simpson, T. J. Shaw, Porter McClannahan, Robert S. Dukes, R. D. Green and Absolom Wray produced their credentials and took their seats in council. The following is a list of mayors revised and corrected by the present register :

The Grand Drive

We understand that the subject of building the boulevard to which we have referred has already claimed the attention of the citizens of both places, and about $15,000 have been thus far subscribed by a few of the prominent citizens of Independence, and only wait the co-operation upon the part of the citizens of Kansas City to commence work upon this most desirable improvement This enterprise, when completed, will contribute largely in bringing about the results we have predicted in the outset of this article, and rapidly enhance the value of real estate.

We say it advisedly, from careful observation, that there cannot be found upon the route of the proposed boulevard, for three miles out from Independence, a space of 200 feet upon either side of the road but presents the most attractive building spots to be found anywhere upon this continent. Nature has formed and fashioned these grounds especially for the erection of elegant houses, where a grand panorama of beauty can be viewed from every doorway.

In 1858 a magnificent turnpike or macadam road was built by machinery, by the citizens of Independence, a distance of two and a half miles, to the warehouse upon the bank of the Missouri River for the accommodation of the immense river traffic of that day.

This road passes through the most grand and beautiful country, being apparently set apart by the Creator, for the erection of magnificent residences, and the grounds for ornamentation. For a distance of over a mile upon either side of this highway is one continuous orchard, embracing all the varieties of fruits known to the horticultural list susceptible of successful cultivation in this latitude.

Upon leaving the macadam road, as it makes its descent to the river, a drive of a quarter of a mile, terminates upon a bluff, which rises abruptly 400 feet above the Missouri River, from which one of the grandest sights comes in view the eye has ever looked upon.

As far as the vision extends, up and down the river, can be seen a magnificent country dotted over with farm houses, forest trees and meandering streams rippling onward to empty their waters into the Missouri.

Here also, can be distinctly seen, Kansas City, Wyandott, Liberty and Independence, with their towers and church steeples glistening under the rays of an unclouded sun. At the bottom of this grand bluff, which we will call Prospective View, the old Missouri makes a horse-shoe bend, resembling the great bend on the Alleghany Mountains, crossed by the Pennsylvania Rail Road.

About a quarter of a mile south of this bluff is located grounds owned by Mr. Charles S. Crysler, Esq., a prominent and rising young lawyer of Independence. These grounds embracmg 55 acres, will in the near future, present attractions, that will surpass any spot upon the Hudson River, the banks of which have been made famous for the exquisite taste in shrubbery and ornamentation, in front of the palatial residences, viewed from the steamboats plying between New York and Albany.

From the highest point, on his land, Mr. Crysler will erect a palatial residence from which he will not only have the grand view from Prospect Hill, but in addition thereto Harlem, Orange and other villages near Kansas City, and the magnificent railroad bridge which crosses the river at the latter point.

The choicest variety of apples, pears, peach, plumb, apricot and cherry trees, and a great variety of useful and ornamental trees, such as chestnut, butternut, maple, etc., are to be found upon these grounds.

There are also found quarries of very superior variety of blue limestone, and one of dark gray marble susceptible of very high pohsh. These stones are used for building purposes.

Many beautiful dwellings are in contemplation to be erected on these splendid sites, and ere another decade shall have passed away, and with modern improvements in buildings, and more cultivated taste in ornamentation, the muddy Missouri, will present upon her banks, grander views, and representations of culture and refinement than is now the boast' and pride of the dwellers on the Hudson. The son will improve upon the tastes of the father, and profit thereby, having at command a higher order of architectural and mechanical skill for the erection of houses and palaces, and a wider experience in landscape gardening.

These magnificent building sites, being located upon the highest point of land between the Alleghany and Rocky Mountains, excel all other localities - the valleys of the Mississippi and Missouri in salubrity of climate, and pure, fresh air, thus precluding the possibihty of miasma, or being afflicted with diseases peculiar to low lands and flat prairies.

Independence is now connected with Kansas City by river and three railroads, and the completion of a grand boulevard connecting the two cities, will greatly enhance the value of real estate, and complete all desirable connections with Kansas City.

Independence approached by an inclined plane from the four points of the compass, is finally reached at an elevation of 1,075 ^^et above the Atlantic Ocean and 338 feet above. the level of the Missouri River, being the highest point of land between the two great mountain ranges ; hence, for salubrity and healthy climate it is not excelled upon the American continent. The surrounding country is gently rolhng lands, underlaid with a limestone formation ; the soil being rich, very fertile, and of an alluvial character. Springs of pure crystal water are found gushing out from every hillside, and groves of the finest quality of timber of all kinds, add to the magnificence of the scenery of the valleys covered with a fine quality of blue grass.

The public highway between Independence and Kansas City, at an outlay o a nominal sum of money, can be made the grandest drive or boulevard in the world, not excepting the one so famed in Paris, upon which so much wealth has been expended. This magnificent road passes through a strip of land within a few miles of Kansas City, containing about 1,000 acres that apparently has been fashioned by the Creator for a park, that with the expenditure of less than half the money already laid out upon Central Park, New York, can be made to eclipse in grandeur and beauty any other resort upon the face of the globe.

The forest trees abound everywhere, and the gentle, rolling grounds are not surpassed as building sites. Were Independence divested of all other attractions, and remote from Kansas City or any other commercial center, she has mineral springs within two miles and only a few rods from the proposed boulevard, that with a reasonable expenditure of money will make it the great watering place of the country. Although fifty-three years has rolled away into the vista of time since Independence became the county seat of Jackson county, these springs have been silently discharging their waters down a deep ravine unnoticed and undisturbed, except by the red men of the forest, of whom tradition (recently unearthed) says, made them a resort for the cure of chills and fever.

It is only within the last three or four years their wonderful qualities have attracted the attention of the citizens of Independence. The following chemical analysis made by D. H. Bliss, M. D., shows their medicinal qualities. " One gallon by measure," says Dr. Bliss, " shows the following ingredients in grains as it leaves the springs :

Temperature of water at bottom of spring fifty-six degrees Fahrenheit. The combination of the salts of iron with alkaline carbonates causes the precipitation

He also made a thorough examination of the strata of the earth and masses of stone overlying the course of the water above the spring, and found it to contain mineral in a free state in the form of magnetic oxide of iron, which is a surety of the value of this as a mineral spring."

The spring is within a half mile of the Narrow Gauge Railroad, and about the same distance from a point on the Missouri Pacific, eight miles from Kansas City as we have above stated, two miles from Independence.

The grand plateau of grounds surrounding these springs can be made to far excel in beauty the drives and elegant surroundings fw which Saratoga is celebrated. Capital and enterprise will be required, and in our judgment the day has come when a move should be made to make the Cussenbary springs one of the live attractions of the present generation.

As yet, but few experiments have been made as to the value of their medicinal qualities, outside of a number being speedily cured of chills by their use; but the above chemical analysis will doubtless lead to a critical examination by our scientific men and the medical faculty. The water flows from the reservoir pure as crystal. It is inodorous, and no medicinal properties are detected by drinking it.

What astonishes more than anything else is, that after the close of the Mexican war down to 1857, Independence was the great out-fitting post for those engaged in the freighting business to Mexico, and subsequently to California, when Kansas City was merely a steamboat landing. Notwithstanding this wonderful preslige, the tide of fortune and unforseen events has made Kansas City the great inter-ocean railroad terminus and prospective commercial center of the west. These facts demonstrate that enterprise and geographic prestige can accomplish wonders in a few years.

Nevertheless Independence Has men of large wealth, and a number of enterprising business men who have located here since the close of the war, from the Eastern and southwestern States, who are now waking up to the advantages their location possesses. The "old fogy" element is rapidly dying out and leaving to their children the means to enable them to recover the advantages lost by their ancestry.

The Chrismans, Sawyers, Woodsons, Comingos, Wilsons, Pendletons, Reeses, Vailes, Seas, Chiles, McCoys, Mercers, Nichols, Wrights, Morrisons, Mays, Slacks, Motts, Hickmans, Smiths, Hills, Gates, Cryslers, Andersons and others, are beginning to realize and appreciate the opportunities time and events have developed, and with most commendable zeal are investing their wealth in forwarding the enterprises of the times.

These business men and capitalists, by a concert of action will in the near future make Independence the central focus, from which northwestern Missouri will take high rank among the brightest constellations in the galaxy of States, and become the central attraction to the emigrants from the East, as well as those from Europe who are seeking homes upon the western continent.

While this section of Missouri sustained serious draw-backs during the war, and bands of desperadoes made it a terror throughout the land, a more serious damage to the growth of this section of the State after the close of the war, was occasioned by unfavorable reports as to the feeling of hostility upon the part of the inhabitants and old settlers toward their northern and eastern brethren. This state of affairs was believed to be true until men from the north and east came to Independence, Kansas City and Jackson county, to learn from a careful observation and investigation that those rumors, in fact were false, and no foundation for their circulation. The ruffian element that existed in this locality for a time has entirely disappeared, and has left the substantial, honorable citizens in the enjoyment of their homes, who are offering every inducement and facility for emigrants from all the States to settle among them, and share with them the rich inheritance of one of the most beautiful sections of country upon God's footstool. Independence can boast of as high a type of honorable and intelligent citizens as can be found in any town of its size in the United States.

Somewhat different from many sections of the State, the people in Jackson county early cherished a good religious sentiment. The Baptists established a church near Ft. Sibley as early as 1830, and soon other denominations with their churches followed. By no means were all the first settlers religiously inclined, still, perhaps, a greater percentage in this immediate vicinity had received religious-training in their early homes in Kentucky than in many other localities.

The Six Mile Baptist Church, on the road from Independence to Sibley, is said to be the first one organized and built in Jackson county. It was constructed of logs and its capacity was small. Before the church was built meetings were held under a walnut tree in the summer and in private cabins or the Fort during the winter. Three years ago last September occurred the 47th anniversary of the organization of that church. Only one of the original members, an old lady, had survived, and she was brought to the church in a chair. It was called the Six Mile Church because it stood within the limits of a district six miles square which was reserved by the United States Government for agriculture around Ft. Sibley. The early log houses of worship gave place to frame buildings and the frames, in many instances, have been succeeded by substantial brick edifices, for instance the New Salem church has passed through all three of these stages of progress. Rev. Joab Powell was one of the first pioneer preachers in this county, James Savage, Gabriel Fitzhugh, James Lovelady and William White were also pioneer preachers. Father Powell was a peculiar man, a most fitting type of his class. He was very ignorant and it is stated by good authority that he could not read. One time in coming before his congregation he stated that they would find his text in the " two-I'd chapter of the one-I'd John." At another time he took his text from "the 4th chapter of General Matthew." Rev. Durham (William) White, sat in the congregation near him and noticing his mistake said : "You are mistaken my brother. It is not 'General' Matthew. It is St. Matthew." "Oh! Yes," was Joab's reply, " my poor stammering tongue is always making mistakes."

At an association of Baptist ministers in one of those pioneer days, it became the duty of Father Powell to preach the annual sermon. It has long been the custom with this denomination to appoint one of the best preachers sufficiently ahead to prepare carefully the introductory sermon, for it is considered, in some sense, a model for the rest of the brethren. Brother Powell saw the responsibility of his position, and he thought and prayed over it much. He could not write it out, nor gain much from books, for, as has been stated, he could scarcely read at all. He went into the pulpit, as he said, "trusting in the Lord." Sometimes he could preach as if by divine inspiration; at other times he would make an entire failure. Of this he was conscious himself. This time, when he hoped to make the best effort of his life, he utterly failed, and he imagined that he had brought eternal disgrace upon himself and upon the cause he advocated. After service they all repaired to the house of one of the members of the church for dinner ; but when they sat down Father Powell was missing. They became uneasy about him, and when search was instituted, they found him rolling about in the chaff and dust on the barn floor, in great distress. Brother White addressed him in the following language : "What is the matter, my dear brother Powell? Are you sick? " " Yes, sick unto death," he replied. " I want the Lord to kill me. I don't want to live any longer. I have disgraced myself." It was with difficulty that his brethren could persuade him to enter the house and dine with them. He was a man of large proportions, over six feet tall, and weighed two hundred and fifty pounds. Often after repeating his text he would straighten himself to his full height and say: "Well, brethren, this is a great big text, and Joab is a great big man, and he ought to preach a great big sermon." He was a very successful revivalist, and many times, when men of more education failed, he could make the hardest sinner seek the cause. The following anecdote will illustrate: A Cumberland Presbyterian camp-meeting had been in progress for several days at a point about ten miles east of Independence, and there seemed to be no indications of a revival. Day after day the sinners were invited to come forward, but to no purpose. One day Father Powell happened into the campmeeting, and some of his friends expressed a desire to hear the illiterate though honest old preacher. At first the proposition met with disfavor in the committee, they considering him too fair out of date. Finally, however, since he could do no particular harm, they consented to allow him one sermon. He took his text, and made one appeal after another with all his power, though in his homely but characteristic manner. At the close of his discourse he pathetically invited sinners to the anxious seat, and forthwith forty collected around him, and a great revival ensued. He was always dressed in a butternut suit, his ways were plain and simple, and he won the hearts of the people he served. After the county became more settled, and the people more educated and refined, he felt that his mission among them was fulfilled; accordingly, he removed to Oregon, where he served his Master faithfully till his death, which occurred five years since. He was an honest, old-fashioned preacher, with superior native ability, and more than ordinary perseverence. We give herewith one stanza from a poem written to his memory, by an early settler in Jackson county, who knew him familiarly :

Rev. J. J. Robinson, who now hves at Raytown, was also one of the pioneer preachers of this county. He is a good man but possessed of strong prejudices, intense in his views and unique in character.

Elder F. R. Palmer, a Christian minister, came to this county in 1836, and is said to have been the first preacher of that denomination. He preached in Independence for twenty-four years, and on account of his strict Puritanic principles the boys gave him the sobriquet of " old straight edge." He died at Liberty in 1875, in the eighty-third year of his age.

The first church in Independence was built by the Old School Baptists. It was constructed of logs, 35x30 feet with one door, and two large open fire places. The pulpit was in the center of the opposite side from the door. An old man by the name of Moses Staton preached there, and when the weather was warm and he became enthused with his theme he would take off his coat and dispense the gospel with great force and loud sounding words.

The early preaching services of all denominations except, perhaps, the Presbyterian consisted mainly in reading a chapter from the Bible and running comments thereon, accompanied by exhortations. The Old School Presbyterians who as a rule were better educated, usually took a text and preached under divisions of the subject similar to the present custom. The services were far more demonstrative and emotional in character, frequently their shouts could be heard the distance of a mile. The preachers never used notes, and even now in some sections of the State the congregations could not be induced to listen to a preacher who reads his sermon. There were no salaried preachers in the county for many years after it was first settled ; tliose who broke the bread of hfe looked in other directions for their pecuniary support. Many of them were farmers and during week days worked in the field from morning till night. The Methodist circuit preacher of later years, was allowed one hundred dollars, if single, and two hundred dollars a year, if he had a family. The Baptists seemed to take the lead in this county, and have maintained it ever since, the Cumberland Presbyterians, Methodists, Christians and Old School Presbyterians following.

There has been a wonderful advance in religion and churches. From 1845 to 185s, then again during the years immediately succeeding the civil war, the development of Protestant churches in Jackson county was most rapid. At first they were found more in centers, but now every corner of the county has one or more church organizations. For example, at one time there was only one Christian church in the county, being located at Independence, and containing over 400 members. Now there are fourteen churches of that denomination, but none have a membership of over about one half that number. The growth from 1845 to 1855 was extremely denominational. Every one sought his own church. Sectarian feeling ran high, and the preaching was of a polemical character. During the civil war the cause of rehgion suffered greatly. Divisions and dissensions were perhaps greatest in the Methodist church, though the Presbyterians, Christian and Baptist churches were by no means free from the demoralizing effects of civil war. The Baptists, with perhaps one or two exceptions, were able to control the dividing prejudices of political sentiment and keep the churches together. There has been a wonderful change in Christian charity and forbearance since the war, and especially within the past few years. The minds of men, losing sight of the influences that Breed discord, and taking hold of the great principles that underlie all religion, seek to promote its interests in the truest Christian spirit. There are two churches for colored people in Independence - one Baptist and one Methodist. In Kansas City there are four for the same class of people. Independence has one Catholic church and Kansas City several, with a large membership in both places. The Mormon element, or "Church of the Latter Day Saints," has been distinct, having very Uttle influence upon other denominations. They have a church in Independence and maintain regular services.

More rapid advancement has been made in the Sabbath-schools of this county than in any other department of religion. Early Sabbath-schools were few outside of Independence and Kansas City, now they are scattered all through the county, and even where there is no church building, or even organized religious denomination, the Sunday-schools meet in school-houses and they are conducted by Sabbath-school Workers who love the cause. In Lexington and Independence Sabbath-schools were conducted as early as 1848, but outside these towns, in the country, they were almost wholly unknown till 1856.

" Among the early settlers of Jackson county were many Baptists; and people in sympathy with their sentiments. They came from Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee. Our first churches were organized as Uxiited Baptist churches, and became associated in a United Baptist Association, Fishing River. Blue River -Association was also organized as a " United Baptist Association." But about the year 1841 or 1842 an opposition to " Missionary Societies " resulted in a division among some of the churches. Those that went with Fishing River Association (like the Pleasant Grove church in Independence) ultimately changed their name from "United" to "Regular" Baptist. But the churches that continued with Blue River Association did not change their name.

" Among the pioneer preachers of our first churches, were Elders Joab Powell, Moses Stayton, James Kimsley, Henry Bowers, Gabriel Fitzhugh, Henry Hill and Lewis Franklin. In "the spht about Missionary Societies," Elders Hill, Bowers and Fitzhugh became " Regular Baptists." (This name, like some others, is found far back in Baptist history, and is claimed both by mission and antimission Baptists.) The writer was never acquainted with Elders Stayton and Kimsley ; but those who were, speak well of them. Elders Powell and FranWin were both men of ability - above an average. Elder Franklin had a fair education. He had, before entering the ministry, once represented Jackson county in the Missouri State Senate. He was a man of great energy, kind-hearted, and did much for- the cause of Christ.

"Joab Powell possessed a giant mind and a thrilling voice. He was a power for good in any community in which he lived. He moved to Oregon, where, after preaching a number of years, he died, beloved and regretted by a vast number of friends. With these men I have labored in many precious meetings. In many of our churches their works follow them - to be, like them, transplanted to the "shining shore."

' ' Most of our churches have been prosperous, and now have commodious houses of worship. In the "good work" of Sunday-schools, the rising generation are gathered from Sabbath to Sabbath ; and those churches that have been the most efficient in Sabbath-school work, have been the most prosperous.

' ' Besides the organization of many new churches, and several associations in the surrounding counties, as the result of missionary work, hundreds of valuable members have immigrated to Texas, Kansas, California, Oregon, etc.

"With Baptists, education and ministerial support, as in times past, have become an object of prime importance. They feel and realize the mighty issues their ministers have to meet, and that the ministerial mind, trained, not only in scientific lore, but also in schools of systematic theology, and in the laws of logic, is, and will be required, by the highest calling ever vouchsafed to man, to lead and instruct an educated people."

The annual meeting of the Blue River Baptist Association was held with the Blue Ridge church, in Jackson county, on the 24th, 25th, and 26th of September. Thirty-five churches' were represented, reporting over 500 received by baptism ; total membership over 3,000. The principal subjects discussed at the meeting were. Domestic and Foreign Missions, Sunday-schools, Colportage, etc. Harmony prevailed throughout the meeting. On Sunday, the 26th, Rev. J. V. Scofield, of St. Louis, preached to a large and attentive congregation, after which, Rev. Mr. Brooks, representing the Widows' and Orphans' Home of Mississippi, made some remarks, and took up a collection of $110. In the afternoon. Revs. Buchner and Roan spoke in behalf pf the young men of William Jewell College, preparing for the ministry.

The First Baptist Church Of Independence

Prominent among the churches of Jackson county is the Baptist. The Six Mile Baptist church, which is on the road to Sibley, is said to be the first religious organization in the county. There are now eighteen Baptist churches in this county, a greater number than of any other denomination. They are as fol-' lows: Antioch, at Buchner, Besonia, at Raytown, Blue Springs, Calvary, at Kansas City, First Church, at Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Lone Jack, New Liberty, near Blue Springs, New Salem, northeast from Independence, Oak Grove, Six Mile, Sni-Mills, Greenwood, W«st Fork, Westport, and Willow Springs. These churches, together with those of Cass county, belong to what is known as the Blue River Baptist Association. The association, composed of delegates from each church, meets once a year. The church at Independence was organized January 25, 1851, with tbe following original members : George Neat, S. Rufifner, C. C. Rice, F. T. Meador, James Ruffner, Sanford Ruffner, William Lacy, Ann E. Christopher, Malinda Neat, Ann Beckham, Emeline Meador, Jane Rice, Martha Christopher, Martha Ruffner, and E. A. Beckham.

The present neat brick church was built in the year 1856, the lot costing $850 and the edifice $3, 216. It is about sixty feet long and forty feet wide, and contains a good bell, a fine Estey organ, communion set, baptistry, and neat pulpit and platform. It is situated on Rock stteet, only one-half a block west of the public square. This church, like all others, suffered considerably during the civil war and from that shock it has not yet fully recovered, though at present it shows signs of greater prosperity. Pastors have occupied the pulpit as follows : H. H. Tilford, G. W. Foster, G. W. Rogers, J. R. Phillips, C. Blood, W. R. Rothnell, D. D., A. Machette, A. C. Rafferty, R. S. Jones, H. K. Dixon and J. M. Wise the present pastor. The number of the present membership is no. The Sabbath-school meets regularly at 9:30 every Sabbath morning with an attendance of sixty-five. The Sabbath-school was organized May 9th, 1858 and M. Runyan was superintendent. Since that time several have filled that office, among them, H. G. Goodman, James Norvel, L. F. Franklin and H. E. Marshall the present superintendent. During the history of the church there have been several religious awakenings, still none very marked. In July, 1877, there were twenty-nine additions, twenty of whom were by baptism. In September, 1878, there were about ten additions, and in March, 1880 there were twenty-six additions. During the last year of the pastorate of Rev. Joseph K. Dixon, which closed last August, there were received into the church twenty-seven persons, twenty-five of whom were by baptism. There were 334 periodicals and papers taken on subscription by the church and Sabbath-school last year. For the year ending August, 1880, the pastor had delivered eighty-six sermons, sixtytwo addresses, attended forty-six prayer meetings, forty-six Sabbath-school sessions and sixty-four revival meetings. The following words by the pastor, on the anniversary occasion, briefly express the condition of the church :

"The Lord of Hosts has truly smiled upon us. The members have been united and harmonious, filling their obligations with cheerful promptness and earnest fidelity. The prayer meetings and Sabbath services have been marked by a large attendance and interest. The Sabbath-school flourishing, each Sabbath marks a period of growth and interest. A glorious revival has crowned the year's labor, and many souls have been brought into the Kingdom, and we trust also seed has been sown which will fall into good ground and bear much fruit. It is the general verdict of all connected with the church that this pastoral year closes leaving the church in a more prosperous and healthful condition than for many years. All the glory be to our God, and may the present gratifying condition of the church only be the prelude to a much larger growth, higher spiritual attainments, stronger zeal, greater extension, deeper, more unaffected piety, and a still deeper and more blessed realization of the presence and power of the Great Head of the church."

The present pastor. Rev. J. M. Wise, enters upon his work with earnestness and zeal, and success will surely reward his labors. There is preaching every Sabbath morning and evening, prayer meeting on Wednesday night. The deacons are W. H. Franklin, G. D. Schultz, Elias Ellis and H. Hale. Clerk, H. E. Marshall; chorister, John T. Ross; organist, Everett Blood.

The Methodist Church South

McMurry, Jane McMurry, S. Noland, Nancy Nolan, Angeline Nolan, Jesse Nolan, Reuben Wallace, Mary Wallace. This was probably the first Methodist society organized in Jackson county.

In 1859 the present church was completed. The building is of brick 50x70 feet and two stories high. The lower story is divided into minister's office, class room and lecture room. It is very substantially built, has an excellent bell, and in all respects well arranged for the purposes for which it was built.

In 1835, we see Independence for the first time in the list of appointments, Lexington and Independence forming one pastoral charge, and was served by Rev. R. H. Jordan as senior, and W. P. Hulse, junior preacher. In 1836, N. Henry was appointed; 1837, Thomas Wallace; 1838, Hugh L. Dodds ; 1839, Benjamin R. Johnson; 1840, C. F. Dryden ; 1841, D. Kinnear and J. Dines; 1842, E. B. Headly; 1843, W. P. Nicholds; 1844, R. F. Colburn ; 1845, J. R. Bennett; 1846 - this year Independence is made a station, it heretofore having been a circuit, J. R. Bennet is returned as pastor and is the first minister appointed to this pastoral charge for two years in succession ; 1847, Thomas Walace was appointed - he having been stationed here at a former time ; 1848, T. T. Ashby ; 1849, N. B. Peterson; 1850, Wm. H. Lewis; 1851, B. H. Russel; 1852, T. T. Ashby. During this year the parsonage, still standing in the rear of the church, was built. The pastor for 1853, ^^^ J. Dines ; 1854, J. F. Truslow; 1855, Joseph Boyle; 1856, J. T. Peery; 1857-8, W. B. McFarland, who remained two years; 1859-60, B.T. Kavanaugh, pastor for two years; i86r,W. M. Leftwich ; how long he remained we do not know. The difficulties, etc. , arising from the war were such that he felt justified in leaving his pastoral charge. The church was now without any regular pastor till 1865, when M. M. Pugh was appointed to the work. He remained two years and was succeeded in 1867-8 by S. S. Bryant, who remained to the close of the latter year. 1869, G. H. Williamson had charge; 1870, W. F. Camp; 1873, M. J. Law; 1874-5, C. H. Briggs; 1876-7, W. B. McFarland; 1878-9, R. A. Hollaway; 1880, Rev. J. Spencer, who is the present pastor.

The present membership is 112. The church is in a healthy and prosperous condition. The Sunday-school meets every Sunday with an average attendance of about 100. J. G. McCurdy has been the superintendent for about thirty years.

The Christian Church

This is one of the foremost denominations in Jackson county, its membership and influence is large, and many of the most highly respected citizens of Independence and vicinity are members of this church. In various parts of the county and in Kansas City the Christian church has been long established. The present house of worship in Independence is large and elegant, and the congregation worshiping there is the largest in the city.

This was, also, one of the early church organizations in Independence, having been established in the year 1836, a church building being erected about the same time. Among the early and prominent members were : Amos Allen, Oliver Caldwell, James Smart, Eli Glascock, Alexander Collins, F. R. Greenwood, F. R. Palmer, Henry Barker, Adam Fisher, J. H. Eaton, N. J. Hockensmith, Asa Hedges, Benjamin Thompson, Samuel Shortridge, with their wives and families.

The present church edifice was built by William Huston, in 1854, and remodeled in 1874., Mr. E. A. Hickman, one of the building committee, estimates the cost of the present brick edifice at about $6,000. Elder F. R. Palmer was one of the early pastors. Elder Alexander Proctor, who now presides over the services of the church, has been pastor for more than twenty years, and this short sketch would be entirely imperfect without a few words in reference to the hfe of one who has dwelt in the hearts of his people so long. He was born in Fayette county, Ky., April i, 1825. In 1836 removed with his parents to Randolph, Mo. He graduated at Bethany College in 1848, and was ordained as a Christian minister, first taking a charge at Lexington, this State. He removed to Glasgow in the fall of 1850 and there remained till 1856, when he went to St. Louis. In i860 he came to Independence, where he has since resided with the exception of a short time during the turbulent days of the Civil War. He was married to Miss Caroline M. Trewitt, August 29, 1859, and their family consists of four children, Mary, Rowland, Stella and Emma. T?he members formerly worshiped in an old church northeast of the present one. The Sunday-school is large and prosperous, and Jno. A. Sea is Superintendent.

The First Presbyterian Church

The First Presbyterian church. Old School, at Independence was organized November 21st, 1841, by Rev. J. L. Yantis, assisted by Arthur G. Young, a ruling elder of the church at Lexington. The members thus organized were James Patton, Joseph O. Boggs, Cincinnatus W. Boyers, Mrs. Mary Patton, Mrs. Sarah Irwin, Mrs. Henrietta Mauir, Mrs. Elizabeth Lee, Miss Nancy M. Patton, Mrs. Phoebe Boggs. At this original organization no officers were set apart, nor were there any officers of said church till November 4thj 1842, when C. W. Boyers and J. O. Boggs were duly elected, and on the 5 th day of said month (Sabbath) were regularly ordained as the first ruling elders thereof. Said church had no house of worship of their own till about 1852, when the present house was erected.

The Methodist Church

This church was organized in the year 1867, when the present brick church was erected. The cost of the church was about $8,000. It was dedicated by Rev. B. F. Crary, D.D., of St. Louis, editor of the Central Christian Advocate.

The following named pastors have served the church : J. N. Pierce, S. Griffin, H. R. Miller, Rev. Boucher, W. Stephens, D. A. Pierce, Rev. Carrington, Rev. Mortland and the present pastor, R. R. Pierce, who is now in his third year. The present membership is 75. Since the re-organization of the church in this city there has been some opposition manifested toward it, but a better feeling is now growing. The M. E. Church, South, of this city, Kansas City and many other places, are beginning to drop the word " South," and are simply known as the "Rock Street M. E. Church," the "Walnut Street M. E. Church," etc. There is also a Sabbath-school in connection with the church. The present pastor, Rev. R. R. Pierce, is a man of rare talents and peculiarly adapted for his high caUing. His distinguished social qualities, as well as his high moral and religious teachings, have endeared him to his parishioners and the public in general.

Cumberland Presbyterian Church

This denomination of Christians, when compared with the age of many others, is yet in its youth. It originated in America. About the year 1799 and 1800 a remarkable revival of religion swept with its hallowed influences among the people inhabitating that district of country then known as the Cumberland country, which included that beautiful region through which meanders the Cumberland River, and extended from the Green River in Kentucky on the north to the Tennessee River on the south. Out of this revival, and in this district of country, sprang the Cumberland Presbyterian church. It was organized on the 4th day of February, 1810. Its first Presbytery was, owing to its locality, called Cumberland Presbytery, and this is why this Presbyterian church is called Cumberland Presbyterian. 4a, -

This church is perhaps the largest Presbyterian body in the State of Missouri, the membership being near twenty thousand in this State. Their numerical strength in the United States is about one hundred thousand. Their academies, colleges and universities, and also their books and periodicals though not as numerous as older denominations have, are of a high character, and will not suffer when placed in comparison with those of others.

Gan Johnston, Wm. W. Kavanaugh and three or four members of his family, Mrs: Margaret B. Cambers, John Lewis and wife, Samuel D. Lucas and wife. The frame church was built in 1831 at a cost of $1,200, and was dedicated by Rev. Wm. W. Kavanaugh. Names of pastors were : W. M. Kavanaugh, Robert Sloan, Barnett Miller, Rev. Kennedy, J. H. Houx, Rev. Woods, I. T. A. Henderson, Levi Henshaw, Rev. Givens and several others, not remembered. The present church is a neat and commodious brick, erected in 1840, and improved and enlarged in 1848. The present membership is about 40.

The first church edifice was of logs situated where Lewright's slaughter house now stands. Some of the early preachers were ; Joab Powell, Gabriel Fitzhugh, Revs. Stayton, Henry Hill, James Savage, Thomas Rule, and Fewel.

Some of the more modern names which have occupied the pulpit are those of George Stout, J. D. Gossett. The present house of worship is brick, 80x45, furnished suitably. It cost about $3,500 and was built sometime before the Civil War. There are now fifty members.

This church was organized May 25, 1873, by Elder E. C. Brand. The names of the original members were H. Etzenhouser, Hannah Etzenhouser, Rudolph Etzenhouser, Daniel Etzenhouser, Mary C. Noble, Albert E. Noble, Lorinda M. Noble, Louisa Noble, Orwin S Noble and Peter J. Hale. The present brick church was built in the year 1880, at a cost of $1,375. Elder Joseph Luft is present pastor, and Elder A. J. Caster is presiding elder of the Independence District.

This branch of the church belongs to the Independence District. This district includes Jackson and Cass counties, Missouri, and Wyandott county, Kansas. The district includes 200 members, and was organized by Elder James Caffall, in February, 1878.

The African Baptist Church

This church was organized January 13th, 1864, by Rev. C. A. Bateman, with the names of William Tadlock, Madison, Mosby, Thomas Hale, Gibson Smith, Ann Mosby, Vinia Tadlock, and Jannie Hale, as original members. They built a frame church in 1867, at a cost of $1,000, which was dedicated by Revs. Clark, Moore and Johnson.

Names of pastors : Clark, Moore, E. S. Carnn, Granderson Roberts, J. H. Hornesley, O. P. Simes, and G. Gray. The present membership is 145. This is known as the Second Baptist Church, of Independence. Five pastors have served the church, all of whom were paid fair salaries. The society have bought a little brick house of worship formerly owned by the German Methodists. It cost $650. The church is now free from debt.

The African M. E. Church

This church organization was gathered into the fold of Rev. William Doane, in 1865, and the names of the original members were Benjamin Smith. Mauda Smith, Hartwell Tucker, WilUam Stone, G. W. Ricker, Thomas Scott, Violet Hair. The new brick church was built in the year 1879, at a cost of $2,000. It is 36x50 feet, situated on East Lexington street. The present membership is 125. The names of pastors who have preached for this church are William Doane, W. B. Owsely, two terms, John A. Fouchee, Henry Triplet, Daniel Oaks, G. W. Grey, Joseph P. Alexander.

This was first called the Church of the Holy Cross. The first baptism occurred February 11, 1845, and was performed by the Rev. Father Bernard Donnelly, who, for several years, was pastor of the church before he removed to Kansas City. There were only a few families who united in the first organization. About that time, the society bought a wagon shop about 24x36, built of brick, for a place of worship. An addition was mide to this first church, and continued in use till 1866, when the present building was erected. The first church cost about $250.

The present church building, 92x44, of brick, was commenced during the Civil War and finished at about the close of the war, and cost $1,100. It is furnished with all the conveniences of worship, including vestments, pews, chandeliers, organ, bell, and other things used in a well-supplied Catholic church. The present membership is 800. The names of the pastors who have served the congregation here are Father Bernard Donnelly, Father Dennis Kennedy, Father Patrick M. O'Neil, and Father Thomas Fitzgerald, the present pastor. Father Fitzgerald received this charge April 16, 187-;, and has since filled the office of pastor.- During the year ending October, 1880, there were thirty baptisms and four marriages. The average annual revenue, besides money from festivals, etc., amounts to $900.

Cemetery

This old and revered place of the dead is located about three-quarters of a mile southeast of the public square, and contains about twenty acres. It was the first burial place in this part of the country. The oldest ground is east of the new, but all in the same inclosure. There are in the old and new many graves, and several fine monuments adorn the grounds. The Catholic cemetery is immediately south of the Independence city cemetery, and in this, also, there are a large number of graves. Additions from time to time have been made to the Independence cemetery, which is under the control of the city council.

Colleges And Schools

The "Woodland College," of which further mention is made elsewhere in this work, established in 1869, is one of great promise, and its annual catalogue shows evidences of success. The grounds, containing seven and a half acres, are most admirable adapted to the purposes for which they are used, and expenditure of a few hundred dollars in shrubbery and ornamentation, will make a most inviting and pleasant resort, that adds so much to the fascination of our institutions of learning. The building for the present is ample for the wants of the pupils, and the faculty is composed of professors of unquestioned ability as educators. The curriculum embraces all the studies known to our larger and older colleges ; and a very respectable chemical and philosophical apparatus, for an institution so young has already been secured. Both sexes are educated here, and we predict, under the present efficient management, the day is not far distant when " Woodland College" will take high rank among the prominent and popular institutions of learning in our country, and the necessity of new and larger buildings will claim the attention of the trustees and those interested.

Independence Female College

If the quantity of iron used by a people is an index to their material prosperity, so the character of its schools is an index to their moral development. Closely interwoven with the history of our city must be that of her institutions of learning. To our social, religious and educational facilities is due, in large measure, the prosperity and popularity of the Orchard City. Outstripped by Kansas City in the race for commercial pre-eminence, the lovely suburban city presents a most delightful retreat from the noise and bustle of that great future metropolis of the Missouri Valley.

The corner-stone of Independence Female College, bears this inscription : "Laid A. L., 5871. July, 1871." The names of its founders are set forth in the following extract from the records of the Circuit Court, under date of June 26, 1871 :

"Whereas, William Chrisman, Abram Comingo, William McCoy, John Mc- Coy, John T. Smith, Geo. W. Buchanan, George P. Gates, John Wilson, Charles D. Lucas and John H. Taylor have filed in the office of the Circuit Court their articles of association in compliance with the provisions of an act concerning corporations, approved March 19th, 1866, with their petition for corporation under the name and style of Independence Female College ; they are therefore declared a body politic and corporate by the name and style aforesaid, with all the powers, privileges and immunities granted in the act above named."

These names are in themselves a guarantee of success. An idea may be formed of the energy with which they carried their plans into execution, from the facts that the incorporation was completed in June, the corner-stone was laid in July, their liberal contribution of twenty thousand dollars was expended in the completion of the work, and the school was successfully opened in the fall.

As to the manner in which their purpose has been carried out, the teaching talent employed, the patronage enlisted, and the good accomplished in the way of female education, its success which has been so great, fully attests.

Faculty Of 1871-72

Rev. M. M. Fisher, D. D., president, and professor of mental and moral science ; Miss Margaret T. Henderson, teacher of belle-lettres, natural science, and mathematics; Miss Sallie A. Allen, principal of intermediate department; Miss Kate Buchanan, principal of primary department ; Henry E. Schultze, professor of vocal, piano, and organ music; Mrs. M. W. Liicas, matron.

Faculty For 1880-81

p. F. Witherspoon, president, mental and moral science ; Rev. A. Carroll,, supreintendent, literary department, ancient languages, science, mathematics; Mrs. Witherspoon, history, physiology, and botany ; Mrs. Helen M. Nash,, modern languages, and English literature ; Miss Lydia Carroll, primary department ; Miss Evelyn Westlake, vocal and instrumental music ; Mrs. Helen M. Nash, pencil drawing; Miss Pauline Witherspoon, instrumental music; Mrs. H. C. Crysler, oil and portrait painting; Mrs. Witherspoon, wax flowers, hair flowers, photocrome, and Grecian painting.

The St. Marys Convent School

The college under the patronage of the Catholic church is conducted with the same enterprise peculiar to institutes under the patronage of this denomination,.

and this one compares favorably with colleges throughout the country, affording ample facilities for a thorough course of study for which schools of this character have become so extensively known and popular. It was begun October, 1878, established by Father Fitzgerald, the present pastor. It is situated close by the church on the same half-block. The school building is 40x50, two stories, brick, and cost $4,000. It is used both for day school and boarding school, boys attending during the day and young ladies boarding in the building. There are five teachers including the instructor in music. There are now m attendance one hundred pupils. The academic year dates from the first Monday in September and closes on the last day of June, and is divided into two sessions of five months each.

Public Schools

The public schools of Independence were organized September 18, 1866. The first Board of Directors consisted of Messrs. Peter Hinters, U. P. Bennett, Jacob May, William McCoy, William Chrisman, and Jacob Leader. Col. May was elected President, William McCoy, Treasurer, and WiUiam Chrisman, Secretary. Rev. J. A. Smiih was appointed Superintendent of schools, to be assisted by four teachers; this number being increased to ten before February, 1867.

The district being without a house, the Board rented rooms wherever they could be best obtained, and during the first session the schools were put in so good condition that their success was assured. March 30, 1867, the seminary property belonging to Rev. W. H. Lewis was purchased for $11,000, and such alterations and improvements were made as to adapt it, as nearly as possible, to the uses intended. This building is still occupied by the white schools, and with the repairs that have been made from time to time, promises to be adequate to the wants of the present, and possibly of several succeeding generations.

The first levy for schools was 1.2 per cent, yielding a revenue of $10,000. The first enumeration of children showed the number, of school age, to be 1,152. Supt. Smith was continued in office two years, and was succeeded by Rev. A. Carroll, in 1868, who was, in 1873, succeeded by Prof. A. E. Higgason, the present incumbent.

During the first years of these schools the tendency was to spread them over as much educational ground as possible ; hence we find that the number of teachers was gradually increased to seventeen, including an assistant superintendent, and teacher of German. The course of study was expanded until it included - almost as much as is required in some of our colleges.

Until 1876, the white school was divided, two rooms being furnished by the Catholic church and supplied with Catholic teachers. Of course the Catholic children attended these schools. This division of the schools was a virtual division of the school fund.

Since 1873, the policy of. the Board, in its management, has been in the direction of simplicity and economy. Latin, Greek, German, chemistry, surveying, and all higher studies have been excluded. The course now concludes with geometry, in the mathematical department, rhetoric, in the literary course, and natural philosophy, in the scientific. The course is now so arranged that a child of average ability entering at six or seven years of age will have as much as he can conveniently do for nine years.

There are in the colored school two grades, in the white there are eight, one teacher being assigned to each, and each grade having in it two classes. By this arrangement the time of the children is divided into two equal parts, one being devoted to study and the other to recitation. The lowest grade frequently contains more than two classes.

The expenses of these schools have been reduced at every point until at present their annual cost is about $4,500, or $7 per annum for each pupil.

With the accumulated experiences of Board, teachers, and superintendent, many of the errors of former years have been rectified. Expenses have been retrenched, and the best methods of teaching and government have been adopted.

There is no aim made at display, but quiet persistent work is insisted on ; these schools are of the people, and for them. The people select a Board to represent their interests. The Board appoints a superintendent as their educational representative ; he supervises the teachers, and they supervise the children, thus bringing the circuit of supervision back to the people.

These schools were never more efficient than now, nor were they ever more popular. They must, by virtue of their being public schools, be utterly impartial, but are liberally patronized by the wealthiest citizens, and those of highest social standing, whose children laudably and generously vie with those of the humblest for the highest rank in their classes. Every endeavor is constantly being made to keep them abreast of the best educational methods. They are at all times open to inspection in every department. The frequent presence of visitors is urgently requested, and criticism always invited.

Masonic

Palestine Commandery, No. 17, K. T., organized October 4, 1871, with the following charter members : S. M. Kerr, John Westmoreland, Tarbert Entrikin, Walker Buckner, Marion May, Tandy Westmoreland. Meetings are held the first and third Thursdays of each month, at the Masonic Hall. The present officers are : E. J. Nickerson, E. C. ; John S. Mott, Generalissimo; William Randall, Capt. General; J. A. Westmoreland, Prelate; H. Morrison, S. W. ; M. R. Wright, J. W. ; I. N. Rogers, Treasurer; Samuel Wilson, Recorder; S. A. Sullivan, Warder; Jacob Vernon, Capt. Guard.

Independence Lodge, No. 76, A. F. & A. M., organized October 14, 1846, with the following charter members : Richard Rees, Harrison Robinson, Daniel C. Woodall, and others. Its meetings are held in Masonic Hall on the second and fourth Saturday evenings of each month. Present officers : J. A. Westmoreland, W. M. ; W. A. Cunningham, Secretary.

Independence Chapter, No. 12, R. A. M., was organized October 13th, 1848, with the following charter members: Richard Rees, H. P. / Samuel H. Woodson, King; John Heard, and others. Meetings are held at the Masonic Hall on ttie first and third Fridays of each month. . The present officers are : M. R.

This lodge was organized October 12, 1869, with the following charter members: James C. Riggs, James Peacock, Porter McClannahan, and others. Their regular meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday evenings of each month, in the Masonic Hall. Harry Wait, W. M.; Jacob Leader, Secretary; Wm. Sullivan, Treasurer; Bailey Strode, S. W.; Silas Hillard, J. W.; are the present officers.

Met and organized March 12, 1847. The first charter was destroyed by fire, and another was issued in June, 1857. Their meetings are held every Tuesday night, in the Jones building, on the north side. The hall is neatly furnished. The present officers are S. A. Sullivan, N. G.; R. D. Wort, V. G.; H. H. Noland, Secretary; Horace Sheley, Treasurer. The present membership numbers 85.

This encampment was organized June i, 1857, and their regular meetings are on the second and fourth Thursday evenings of each month, at the Odd Fellows' Hall. There is a present membership of 25, and the present officers are H. H. Noland, C. P.; H. Sheley, S. W.; John A. Westmoreland, H. P.; Samuel A. Sullivan, J. W.; John S. Swearingen, Scribe.

Knights Of Pythias, Independence Lodge No. 3

The lodge was instituted in 1868, with the following charter members: C. D. Lucas, John P. Duke, L. F. Franklin, James L. Gray, J. C. Leftwich, A. J. Liddil, Peter Dick. The first Chancellor Commander was C. D. Lucas, and James L. Gray, Vice C. C.

This order was organized July 19, 1879, with the following charter members: Geo. D. Schultz, P. M. W.; D. G. Parker, M. W.; C. R. Haller, G. F.; John Hutchinson, Overseer; Chas. H Clark, Financier; J. C. Pendleton, Receiver; A. L. McCoy, G.; James M. Nicklin, I. W.; M. H. Halderman, O. W. Meetings every Monday night, at Odd Fellows Hall. Present membership, 28.

Was organized March 13, 1875, with the following charter members: Jennie Wallace, Palmyra E. Parish, Nannie Wallace, MoUie L. Burns, Bettie Adams, Mary Dill, Nannie McClannahan, Hattie McCormack, Ettie Westmoreland, Lucy Moreland, Gegia Holland, Mattie Baker, Lettie M. Kelley, Mary C. Reynolds, Fannie Morris, and John A. Westmoreland. Meetings are held on the evenings of the first and third Wednesdays in each month.

Business Directory

E. church. Beatty, C. E., editor weekly Crisis. Bryant, W. L., druggist. Bryant, John, doctor. Bryant, John, Jr., doctor. Blau, Antone, shoemaker. Bone, William L., attorney at law, Beatty, A. L., jeweler. Brown, J. T. & Bro. , druggists. Brown, J. T., physician. Earnhardt, J. D., boots and shoes.

goods. Stahl Simon, bakery. Strode, B. P., blacksmith. Sampson, Moses, dry goods, etc. Saurbier, S., blacksmith. Todd, Mrs. S. A., Jones Hotel. Tindall, Robert, general store. Thompson, N., jeweler. Torpey, John coal dealer. Wright, M. R. , boots, shoes, hats, caps

The Bluff At Wayne City

Several dififerent elevations in the county have been noticed elsewhere in this work, but the one under present consideration deserves special attention.

The St. Louis directrix is 362 feet perpendicularly above the level of the Gulf of Mexico; the level of Independence, Mo., is 610 feet above St. Louis, and the bluff north of the city is 52 feet above that, making the highest point in the county 1,034 feet above gulf level. The highest point in Kansas City is 510 feet above the directrix (362 feet) making 882 feet total height. G. C. Swallow is author of the height of directrix, and G. C. Broadhead for the height, by railroad surveys, of the elevation of the point above the St. Louis zero. The height of bluff above low water mark is 321 feet, which, taken from bluff height, will leave 341 feet water ascent from St. Louis to Wayne City.

The highest point of land in Jackson county is near the river where Mr. Z. S. Ragan lives, on the bluff overlookmg the great Missouri. It is 321 feet above low water in the Missouri River, and commands one of the grandest views in America. Surrounded by extensive orchards of the finest fruit trees the country can afford, the grandest panorama of natural and artificial scenery meets the eye on every hand. The great Missouri, meandering at your feet, beneath the bluff can be seen stretching through the green hills for twenty miles away, its banks fringed with a beautiful growth of walnut, oak, elm and hickory. Passenger steamers and freight boats are frequently passing up and down so near the bluff that the conversation of passengers, the rush of the steam through the exhaust pipes and the splashing of the paddle wheels can be distinctly heard ; while from either side of the river in the distance the rush and rumble of the passing trains on seven dififerent railroads reverberates through the valley, and the white wreathes of smoke show the course of the iron horse. The spires and houses of a half dozen cities and towns on both sides of the river greet the eye of the beholder, among which are Independence, Kansas City, Wyandotte and Liberty, while near at hand the precipitous and rocky bluff, the macadam road to Independence Landing, the highly cultivated farms and gardens, the shrubbery, the clumps of timber, and the thousands of fruit trees make this, above all others, the most attractive spot in the State of Missouri. Apples, peaches, pears, cherries, plums, quinces, grapes, and a great variety of small fruit are grown in great profusion on this bluff. As might be inferred from the desirableness of the locality, land here commands a very high price, and its value is constantly increasing. When the cities of Independence and Kansas City shall have spread out toward each till they meet, and are included in one vast central city, this bluff, overlooking Wayne City, will become the site of the most magnificent mansions and villas in America, and the rock road which now leads to Indepeildence will become one of the most fashionable boulevards in this country.

H. M. Vail's residence, commenced in the summer of 1880 and completed in the summer of 1881, one of the most beautiful and costly residences in Jackson county, IS situated on the west side of North Liberty street, one mile north of the public square of Independence. The length of the mansion is 109 feet, width is 48 feet, height is two stories and a mansard roof, making 48 to the top of the roof, 56 to the top of the chimney, and 80 feet to the tower. The view from this tower is magnificent beyond words to express.

Independence In 1871

" A special correspondent of the St. Louis Republican is visiting and 'writing up' the various cities, counties and towns of the State. He has been at Independence, and the result of his observations while here may be seen in his letter, which we publish elsewhere.

" His information in regard to this city and county is somewhat meager, but his conclusion must be conceded nearly correct. The picture he gives of the trade and enterprise of Independence is dismal enough - that it is in the main a faithful likeness, is too true ; that it is in the power of tne citizens to change its features is also true - even 'Headlight' sees life and prosperity for Independence in the future, if she will only develop her resources. We ask an attentive perusal of his letter.

The Old Town Of Independence

" While I have visited a great many hve and go-ahead towns in Missouri, I have also occasionally come across some that are retrograding, and I think in many instances unnecessarily so. These towns are usually located from ten to fifteen miles near larger and greater commercial cities, which they complain have carried off their trade, and might add their energy and ambition also. These towns are mostly staid old places, and contain a great deal of wealth, but seem to have lost their desire to push on in the age of improvement, so necessary in the great commercial battle of cities and towns. Their dull and quiet streets and loss of energy are the first things that attract the attention of a stranger, and your correspondent being in quest of 'whys and wherefores' of everything, naturally put the question as to the reason of such dull times that characterized these localities. The answer was invariably 'We are under the shadow of such and such a city, and cannot do anythmg,' though sometimes it would be varied by a merchant telling me that 'he had no chance.' Now, if people think and settle down upon such mottoes, they never will have chances, while if they use their faculties, and only enfranchise them, they will find opportunities for advancement abundant. All of us have plenty of chances every day falling under our eyes, if we only had eyes to see them and hands to pick them up.

" This is what might be termed an orchard town, beautifully located, and' where the dwelhng houses are so hidden by foliage and large clumps of forest trees which have been left standing, that one could scarcely believe at a glance down the green avenues that the place was inhabited ; but when in my rambles I discovered the homes, how prettily they looked with their neat porches covered with roses and honeysuckle and all manner of sweet climbing shrubs and flowers; there was presented to my view sweet homes nestled in the trees, where no storm could

"The city is about two and a half miles from the Missouri River, and to which a railroad was constructed, but in 1856 a sand bar formed in front of it, and a nearer landing than four or five miles could not be found, which fact seriously interfered with their trade, and even now, with the Missouri Pacific at its door, it takes an omnibus ride of over a mile to reach it. The trade of its palmy days has all departed and gone to more western towns, and Independence is left alone "under the shadow of Kansas City," with only her local trade. No more are the streets thronged with dusky ^Indians and swarthy Mexicans, as was the case twenty years ago, and the sight of an ox or mule team, or prairie schooner, as the large white covered wagons were called, would be a strange sight there to-day. Thus from a once busy, bustling frontier town it has settled down into a quiet, pleasant place, with a refined and hospitable society and considerable wealth, the proceeds of business in its early days.

" Independence already boasts of a very handsome courthouse, and is about remodeling it at a considerable outlay, with the design of making it the finest structure of the kind in the State. In the manufacturing line I notice here a very large woolen mill and three flouring mills. A movement is also on foot to form a stock company with a capital stock of $20,000 for the purpose of constructing factories of different kinds, for which the place is remarkably well adapted, having living springs at four or five different points. One half the amount, $10,000, is already paid in, and the balance partly subscribed.

" In churches I notice several fine buildings, including those of the Catholic, Christian, Presbyterian (old school), Cumberland Presbyterian, Methodist (North and South), Baptist and two colored churches. Episcopalians have an organization, but not yet strong enough in number to erect a church. There is also a fine, large, brick public school, educating 600 children, and a fine seminary and high school. The sum of $12,000 has recently been subscribed to erecta large college, which is to be conducted under the auspices of the Old School Presbyterians.

" The town has a population of nearly 4,000, and supports two newspapers, the Sentinel and Democrat, both Democratic in politics, on which score the citizens are particularly sound. There is also a movement being made to establish a large and valuable library, which is evidence that the people are advancing in matters of the mind, if not in business affairs.

" Granting that a majority of the citizens of Independence are wealthy, and, like the school-boy who lost his arithmetic, don't care whether school keeps or not, there is an evident disposition upon the part of the rising generation to make a break and be up and doing ; hence I think that Independence may yet regain her past greatness in commercial affairs, and become a flourishing business city, as well as a great manufacturing point.

A Sprinkling Of Mormons

" Independence is the first town in my travels that I have come across where Mormons live, but here there is a settlement of about one hundred and fifty, that a year since removed from Illinois. I took a particular good look at them, and I failed to discover any material difference in them from other human beings. They are, however, a reformed edition, and do not, I am told, either believe in or practice polygamy. They live in close proximity to one another and are decidedly clannish, having their own store, a Mormon doctor and a Mormon church. The men wear a kind of a broad brim hat and look somewhat like Shakers. They own two lots in the town, called "Temple lots," where they intend building a temple, believing -that the ground is the identical spot that " Prophet Joe Smith" intimated in 1833 on which such structure should be reared, and where the Messiah will descend and make them all religiously happy. Head Light."