Ray County, Missouri - The whole text, 1881 (part 10 of 23)

Teachers elected for colored school in Richmond for 1881 to 1882, to commence September: John D. Waltan, principal; and Milan McGee, assistant teacher.

The Richmond school is now one of the best in Missouri. The number of puplis in attendance is very large. The course of studies is admirably arranged, so as to make it complete and thorough in meeting, in every respect, the requirements of a people distinguished not only for strong practical intelligence, but also for refined culture and classical elegance. Professor B. F. Duncan and his corps of able and accomplished teachers have given this school a splendid reputation. The mode and system of their teaching is fully up with all the successful modern improvements in the art and science of educating, and keeps well to the front in the advanced progress of the age. The broad foundation of a solid education in deeply laid in the primary and intermediate departments, so that on its Doric strength, the elegant and classical superstructure can be

The prospect for the future continued success of the school is flattering in the highest degree. The good work so nobly done in the past, on the part of the teachers in this school is a splendid guaranty of what the future will be, in training the minds of our youth as they ascend the " hill of science," in obtaining a virtuous and noble education.

Richmond College is situated on a beautiful eminence in the southern addition to the city of Richmond, that affords a glorious view of the surrounding country for many miles. No place in the west can boast of greater advantages as a seat of a literary institution than Richmond. In point of health it is unsurpassed. Its elevated situation frees it from all local causes of malarious diseases. The water is pure, the air salubrious. Some mineral springs have been recently discovered near it, St. Cloud mineral springs, whose health restoring qualities are attracting visitors from all parts of our state. The college building is a spacious and elegant edifice, of modern style of architecture, and makes a very attractive appearance standing upon the crown of a graceful swell of a sloping hill.

The citizens of Richmond and vicinity knowing full well that education is the "pearl of great price," have earned the well deserved reputation of being great workers in the cause of education, doing all in their power to foster, cherish, and sustain their noble institution of learning, so that it may be the pride of their city and county.

To the Board of Education: Sirs: - I have the honor to present the following as my report for the year closing with this date, being the second annual report since my connection with the schools.

The year just closed, has been, to our people, one of great material prosperity, and this has had a marked influence in the success of our schools.

The number in attendance, as may be seen from our tables of statistics, is largely in excess of last year's attendance, and we think that there is no egotism in saying the work done is far better than during the preceding year.

In getting up the crude materials from which this report is compiled, it has been my custom to note from day to day such facts as seemed to grow out of the experiences of the school room, and impressions felt at the time. There are experiences in our daily work in the school room that are of great value to the teacher, and if a proper regard is had to these, they become the basis of many sound and healthful improvements. It has been my aim to note carefully the effect of any experiment looking to the improvement of the schools whether tentatively applied or proved by long usages.

It is believed that the curriculum of studies pursued in the Richmond public schools is not only equal to that of any school, public or private, in northwest Missouri, but superior to most and fully abreast with the progressive spurt of the age. The course of study comprising the ancient languages, natural sciences and mathematics, is, we think, ahead of any similar school in this part of the state.

By reference to the carefully and judiciously graded course of study, it may be seen that the time required to complete it properly, embraces a period of eleven years, from the time the child enters school at first, to the time when it may, with due diligence, finish. It is true that many of our students enter upon the active duties and employments of life before completing the entire course, feeling that they have acquired enough to meet all the exigencies that may arise in life. This, in a certain sense is true; but without additional expense to the community we are able to supply a much larger and more thorough course of training, a course intended to equip for the higher and professional walks in life. This higher training cannot, I think, be well dispensed with, without great injury to your schools and the course of education generally. In reference to the studv of Latin, the decision of school officers in other free schools has been uniformly favorable to its retention. We are gratified that this has been the result reached, if for no other reason than because there was a popular demand for its continuance, which, if disregarded, would seriously injure the standing of our schools. I am confident that any effort looking to a further contraction of the excellent course of education at present in vogue in our schools, would cause the withdrawal from it of some of the best material now in attendance. The discussion of the advantage of the study of Latin is an old one, but the history of education shows that no great headway has been made by those who hold that it is a useless study. The thorough study of a language that underlies the modern southern languages, and is so largely interwoven with the English, cannot be an unprofitable or unpractical study. The chief objection has appeared to be that the results of Latin are not like those of what are called practical studies. The student of surveying has the results of his knowledge in tangible shape, while the results of Latin scholarship, like the moral training at home, are a part of and color everything done in life, and yet rarely appear in such tangible form as to be readily separated and pointed out. The study of Latin is the study of the crystalized embodied thought of ages, that thought which underlies and has been made the foundation of modern civilization.

One cannot study the language thoroughly, without better understanding from a knowledge of that which underlies it, the drift of modern thought. Every Latin word in our language, like the river at its mouth, contains the spring that was the source, and all the contributions from all sides on its way down to us ; to follow it back to its source, is not only mental exercise of great value, but it is obtaining a knowledge of not the language we speak alone, but also of the thought of this age in the material which has contributed to and determined its direction. Certainly the highest aim in education is the training of the mind, without which practical knowledge is as useless and impracticable as a garret and its useless contents. It is true that a mere smattering in any branch is not training, and confers no practical benefits, but it is also true that it is the very few that acquire more than a mere smattering, whether the aim be practical knowledge or mental training. In thorough study of the ancient languages, it is the experience and settled opinion of great educators, and one demonstrated in the practical efficiency of thorough scholars in all fields of human endeavor, that it confers the highest mental training, and the highest practical efficiency and aptitude for all pursuits, as well as a useful knowledge. It does not stand alone, and is not only not incompatible with other studies, but the best preparation for thorough knowledge of those things miscalled practical - miscalled when it is intended to convey the meaning that the languages are unpractical study. This much has been said in regard to the ancient languages, because of the belief in their transcendant importance in that course of study, that would lay claim to anything like completeness.

Let no one conclude that we undervalue the necessity of preserving intact the full course of study in those departments that have contributed so largely to the success and reputation of the schools in the past. Arrangements have been made to place in charge of the mathematics a gentleman of very high scholastic attainments, a graduate of the university of Michigan, while another, a graduate of the university of Missouri occupies a position in the school. We feel, therefore, thoroughly competent to the work assigned us by the board of education.

In my report for last year, the teachers were commended for their diligence and punctuality. I stated that the corps of teachers seemed to recognize the pre-eminent force of example and to desire to conduct themselves in such manner as to render other means of securing good habits on the part of the pupils unnecessary. This method, to a great extent* was successful, as the character and conduct of the pupils amply proved. The ability to set a proper example before his pupils is a necessary qualification on the part of the teacher, and one that should be insisted upon by school officers in the selection of teachers, and if, after a teacher has been fairly tried, he is found wanting in this important respect, it is plainly the duty of the board to displace him. No teacher, however, should be displaced at the instance of prejudiced complainants or in compliance with an ignorant and unjust popular clamor. There are times when communities seem to forget that onerous and most delicate responsibilities rest upon the teacher, the discharge of which renders it necessary that he should combine in his own character some of the rarest elements that enter into the make-up of a human being. It is believed that, 'with the exception of a few notable instances, our corps of teachers have exercised great patience and forbearance in dealing with refractory pupils, and, as said last year, we are still able to say that in no instance have we been forced to acknowledge even a partial failure by resorting to expulsion. In this connection I would state that the right to inflict corporal punishment with the very proper and necessary restrictions thrown around it by the board meets all the demands of sound sense, merciful discretion, and public justice.

I am glad to state that our board of education possess the firmness to protect their employes in the legitimate discharge of their duties, and that no teacher need fear displacement as a consequence of a rigid performance of duty. It would certainly be a great detriment to the successful operation of the schools were any outside pressure permitted to operate to such an extent upon the mind of the teacher as to cause him to hesitate in the performance of any known duty, and no conduct would more surely or speedily secure his dismissal than the manifestation of this timeserving spirit.

We desire to pursue such a course with the corps of teachers in our schools as will stimulate them to high and noble effort, and inspire them with that degree of enthusiasm that will lead to prosperity and renown.

As the compensation received by teachers is a matter of great concernment, you will excuse me for suggesting that liberality in this direction is in perfect accord with the strictest economy in the management of school finances. Demand controls supply, and low salaries command only a low order of talent. Schools should be managed with the strictest economy, but in my opinion there is no economy in employing cheap teachers. Better dispense with the services of all incompetents and put double work and larger salaries on those who are thoroughly informed and able to impress their ideas. It is a suicidal policy that applies economy to the extreme of driving off efficient service in any business. Especially is this true of a profession in which personal qualification and character are almost exclusively the forces employed to produce the results sought.

Finally, returning most sincere thanks to the members of the board and of the corps of teachers who have co-operated with and assisted me in the discharge of the complicated and arduous duties devolving upon me, allow me to express the hope that under your control the schools will continue to do well the important work for which they were established, and that they will always command the respect, the confidence and the cordial support of the entire community.

A brief account of the various societies in Ray county, founded for objects of usefulness, charity, profit, or pleasure, will be found interesting and important. These organizations are beneficial alike to the individuals who compose them, and to the community at large. That Masonry, for instance, the chief and grandest of all secret orders, and which has existed for centuries, 4ias wrought much good in the world, no one will deny who impartially consider its results. It is an honor to be a Mason; and the same is true of all other societies established for similar purposes. We have taken special pains to gather the following information concerning the different lodges of the county; and while the result of our effort is not so gratifying as we could wish, it is believed to be, to some extent

Richmond Lodge, No. 57, A. F. And A. M.

The first meeting, looking to the organization of this lodge, was held July 16, 1842. The date of dispensation, or by whom instituted, was not reported, and we have been unable to ascertain. Its charter is dated October 12, 1842; and the names of the charter members are as follows: Charles R. Morehead, Sinclair Miller, David Bullock, Caleb Tompkins, John Jackson, William Hudgins, James H. Smith, Charles V. Hern, Austin A. King, J. C. Richardson, and Wm. Berry. Of the above named charter members, only the last named is now (April, 1881), living.

The members of this lodge owned a well furnished and commodious hall, which, together with all their books, jewels, regalia, furniture, etc., was destroyed by a cyclone, June 1, 1878.

The following are the names of the charter members: John F. Houston, David Snowden, J. H. Anderson, R. B. Kice, B. F. Gray, John T. Quirk, M. H. Allison, D. P. Proctor, William D. Albright, and D. D. Gant.

The Hon. John F. Houston, who was a member of this chapter, was elected grand master of the grand lodge of Missouri, for the years 1864, '65 and ^66. He died of paralysis in St. Louis, December 7, 1870. His remains are interred in the new cemetery at Richmond. Over his grave the Masons of Missouri have erected a costly and beautiful monument.

Mr. Houston was a man of broad charity, great heart, and untarnished character, and dying, left a name to go down to posterity, pure and spotless and bright, and revered by all who knew him living, or read his history, now that he is dead.

Hardin Lodge, No. 322, A. F. And A. M.

was instituted by James E. Drake, W. M., of Wakanda Lodge, No. 52, D. G. L. Dispensation to establish this lodge was granted July 21r 1869, and its charter bears date October 12, of the same year. William R. Hunt, W. C. Rifle, S. R. Crispin, D. W. Trigg, L. C. Rhinehart, A. L. Bailey, James E. Johnston and Robert Livingston are the charter members.

Myrtle Lodge No. 338, A. F. And A. M.

This lodge is located at Millville, and was instituted by Elias Parrott, D. D. G. M. Date of dispensation, October 12, 1869; date of charter, October 13, 1S70.

Following is a complete list of the charter members: Joseph F. Duvall, R. S. Thomson, William M. McCuistion, Caleb Witcher, Silas Keith, A. A. McCuistion, George W. McCuistion, George W. Lozier, J. M. Carter, John Harrison, S. L. McCuistion, Ambrose Young, John Schooler, S. S. Young, Kedar Wall, J. G. Williams, William Burnett, and A. R. Campbell.

hall, at a cost of $1,800. This building, together with the furniture, jewels, regalia, etc., belonging to the lodge, was destroyed by fire March 12, 1878. The insurance of $1,000 was realized, and the hall was rebuilt the same year, and dedicated May 3, 1879.

Bee Hive Lodge, No. 393, A. F. And A. M.

This lodge, located in the town of Lawson, Polk township, was instituted by Dr. R. B. Kice, of Richmond. Dispensation was granted December 8, 1870, and its charter is dated October 13, 1871.

Ada Lodge, No. 444, A. F. And A. M.

For the facts concerning this lodge, we are indebted to Captain R. H . McWhorter, its secretary - an obliging gentleman, who called at our office, in Richmond, to impart the information desired.

The lodge was instituted by Honorable Samuel J. Owens, grand master of grand lodge of Missouri. Dispensation was granted February 24 1872, and its charter is dated the 16th of the following October.

This lodge was instituted by G. W. McKeon, of Lexington, Missouri- A dispensation was granted in January, 1869, and its charter is dated May of the same year. The following are the names of the charter members: W. W. Orrick, J. T. Child, J. W. Harrison, C. S. W. Taylor, Joseph Robb, F. M. Ball, William Carlyle, John Q. Word and William Crouch.

t The lodge at present, April, 1881, has thirty-six members. It is in good working order, and all the members take a lively interest in its prosperity.

Lodge No. 205, I. O. G. T., Millville

Colonel James W. Black was the founder of the first newspaper published in Ray county. It was called the Richmond Herald, and the first issue thereof was presented to the public, Wednesday, March 17, 1852. It was an attractive twenty-eight column sheet, form seventeen by twentytwo inches, published weekly. * The following little poem, written by "Ada " (Miss Pauline J. De Masters), is inserted, because appropriate - and for its own sake:

Herald! thou star of first magnitude bright, Thy beams will illumine the dark brow of night; We see thee arising in beauty and power, Amid thy competitors proudly to tower. On the wild western border is a banner unfurled, And bravely it floats o'er a wondering world: Truth, beauty and wisdom are strongly combined On that banner where virtue and love are entwined.

Then, Herald, arise, let thy proud voice be heard, As the heart-thrilling tones of our " Liberty bird," Careering all brightly toward the blue skies, And bathing his pinions in sunlight's deep dyes. I see thee! I see thee! in beauty and power, Breathing peace o'er each wild-wood and beautifal bower; "Onward and upward," and holy and free, Ever bright and untarnished thy future shall be.

Col. Black continued at the head of the Herald, as editor and proprietor, till September, 1852, when he sold it to John B. Stoops and Frank Stutzman.

In the spring of 1853, Stoops & Stutzman sold the paper to Rober Miller, Esq., of Clay county, Missouri. Thomas Smith became the publisher and the name of the paper was changed to the Richmond Mirror. In 1857 it was sold by Robert Miller to Messrs. John Gwinne and John W. Griffin. The latter gentleman became the sole proprietor in 1858, and continued the publication of the Mirror until 1859, when it was sold, and consolidated with the Richmond Bulletin, a newspaper published only a short time in the year 1859, in Richmond, by Edward L. King, Esq.

Taking the name of the Northwest Conservator, it was published by Richard M. Hubbell & Co., till 1861. In that year it was sold to Christopher T. Garner, who conducted the paper till 1864, when it was sold to Hawkins & O'Gorman. In 1865, O'Gorman sold his interest in the paper to Richard M. Hubbell, and the firm name of the proprietors became Hawkins & Hubbell.

In 1866, Hawkins & Hubbell sold the Northwest Conservator to Col. Jacob T. Child, who substituted "- Richmond " for " Northwest," and the name of the paper became the Richmond Conservator, and under that name it is still - April, 1881 - edited, owned and operated by Col. Child, who has greatly improved the paper by the addition to his office of a new power press, modern machinery for job work, and a large amount of type, fixtures, etc. His printing establishment is one of the best equipped and appointed of any of its class in the state. The paper is democratic in politics; is ably and impartially edited, and to the prosperity, amusement, and instruction of the people of Ray county, the Richmond Conservator is a sine qua non.

in the fall of 1865, by James A. Berry. Mr. Berry continued to publish the Freeman till the last of November, 1866, when he discontinued its publication in consequence of the injury his press and material received from a detail of Union soldiers, sent from Lexington, Missouri, at that time, by Colonel Bacon Montgomery, to arrest the editor of the Freeman, James A. Berry.

Colonel J. T. Child, editor of the Conservator, was also arrested at the same time and taken to Lexington, but his printing press was not damaged by the soldiers. Colonel Child was released the same day of his arrest, and permitted to return to Richmond.

Mr. Berry, on his release, published a few more numbers of the Freeman and then discontinued it, and removed with his printing press to Kansas.

The Richmond Republican was started by Thomas J. Sutton, Esq., at Richmond, in November, 1866. Mr. Sutton continued to publish the Republican till 1870, when he sold it to his brother, William A. Sutton, who, after publishing it a short time, sold it to Ed. Turner & Co., George McFadden being the publisher. Ed. Turner & Company sold the Re-publican in 1872, to Manias Buchanan, who in December of the same year, sold it to George W. Hendley. The name of the paper was then changed to Ray County Chronicle, the first number of which was published December 28, 1872.

George W. Hendley continued the publication of the Chronicle till February, 1875, when Julius C. Hughes became its owner by purchase. February 26, 1875, the paper appeared under the editorship of Mr. Hughes, and so continued until April 5, 1879, at which time he sold it to Colonel Thomas D. Bogie. May 22, 1879, Colonel Bogie changed the name of the paper to Richmond Democrat, and under that name continues its editor and proprietor. The paper is much improved since he became its owner. It is a reliable family newspaper, devoted to the interests of the town and county in which it is published. It is, like the Conservator, democratic in politics, and, as a county paper, ranks high among other similar publications in Missouri.

Friday April 8, 1881, the first number of the Lawson Gazette was issued. It is owned and conducted by the Lawson Publishing Company, and is a twenty-eight column weekly paper, neat in appearance and worthy of public patronage.

A few extracts from some of the first numbers of the Herald, the first Ray county paper, will, it is believed, be of general and permanent interest. We therefore subjoin the following:

First Newspaper Editorial To Our Patrons

As stated in our prospectus, we shall endeavor to maintain a strict neutrality in politics, reserving to ourselves the right of commenting upon all affairs of state, in such a manner as may be considered consistent with the character of a neutral paper; we shall, nevertheless, keep our readers duly informed of all the political events that are transpiring, without entering the arena of political strife, and becoming a partisan.

It shall be our constant aim and endeavor to make the paper a valuable home journal, by devoting its columns principally to the promotion of the interests of our rapidly growing section of country, which is unsurpassed in fertility of soil, and possesses every facility for carrying on trade.

We shall give a place in our columns, with pleasure, to all articles written for the advancement of trade, agriculture, the mechanics, and other arts, education and morals.

We shall regularly publish such original and selected agricultural articles in our farmer's column, as we shall consider calculated to excite a lively interest in that greatest source of our wealth and prosperity.

It shall be our great aim to give variety to the columns - to have all its departments sustained - to relieve the dryness of commercial and political intelligence, with interesting tales, anecdotes, and other miscellaneous matter.

We shall spare no pains in securing local items, as well as the latest news, both foreign and domestic. In a word, we trust that our labors shall render the paper a source of pleasure to every family circle to which it may be a visitor.

With these few words of preface, we commit our enterprise to the future, trusting to the liberal patronage of an intelligent community to secure permanency and prosperity to the Richmond Herald.

Presentation Of A Medal To Mr. Clay

The citizens of New York, desirious of presenting some testimonial of respect to the Hon. Henry Clay, lately caused a medal to be prepared at an expense worthy of the man, and highly honorable to the party paying him this mark of respect, which was conveyed to this city by a delegation of business men of that spirited, commercial metropolis, and presented to him, yesterday, at his lodgings at the National hotel.

The medal is of a circular form, three and a half inches in diameter; the case of chased silver. The front of the case presents a view of Ashland, the residence of Mr. Clay - above which is engraved the monument erected to Mr. Clay, on the great National (Cumberland) road. On the other side is a picture of the capitol, the prominent theatre of his public life. The front of the medal presents the head and bust of Mr. Clay, in strong bas-relief, encircled by a prominent wreath, representing a union of the states, in which the leading agricultural staples of the north and south form the principal ornaments. On the reverse side are the following inscriptions, indicative of the illustrious periods in the life of Mr. Clay: "Senate, 1806; speaker, 1811; war, 1812; Ghent, 1814; Spanish

America, 1812; Missouri Compromise, 1821; American system, 1824; Secretary of State, 1825; Panama instructions, 1826; Tariff compromise, 1833; Public domain, 1832 and 1834; Peace with France preserved, 1835; Compromise, 1850.

The delegation appointed to deliver this token of respect and veneration to the illustrious statesman, waited upon Mr. Clay at his private chamber.

Gentlemen: This is among the most interesting and gratifying days Of my life, although I have been confined to these rooms for a long time by a tedious and doubtful illness. You have come here the representatives of a large and enlightened body of ardent and devoted friends of mine in the city of New York, to present me a beautiful and costly gold medal, intended to commemorate my public life. On one face are engraved the great public measures, adopted in the national councils in which I was supposed to have had any conspicuous agency; and on the other a remarkable and accurate likeness of me. The time and place of presentation, and the friends who have contributed this splendid testimonial, give to it an inestimable value.

The time is when I am about to retire forever from public life, and when I cannot expect much longer to linger here below; the place is the city of Washington, the principal theatre of these public services, which have commended themselves to your approbation. Throughout my public life I have been blessed everywhere in the United States with more or fewer true friends to whom I am bound by the strongest sentiments of gratitude, but nowhere have they surpassed those in the city of New York in zeal, constancy, and fidelity, and in distinguished and various demonstrations of their affection and attachment.

Whilst one is in the pursuit of public life, and is held up for his highest honors, it is not practicable always to discriminate, among his supporters, between those who bestow their suffrages from pure, patriotic and disinterested motives, and those who are actuated by selfish ends; but on this occasion no such difficult)' exists. You have come, at much personal inconvenience, to the bed of a sick and afflicted friend, to present to him, in your names, and in the name of a numerous body of his personal and political friends whom you represent, a most precious token of your esteem and efiectionate regard. That friend has not now, and never will have any public patronage to dispense. The high and honorable and disinterested character of your motives can not, therefore, be questioned.

Gentlemen, I request vou to accept yourselves, and to communicate to my absent friends whom you represent, my cordial and heartfelt thanks, and mv grateful and profound acknowledgements for this honor you entertain towards me; I should have been most happy to have expressed my great obligations to all of them personally, if it had been in my power.

I shall soon pass from the jurisdiction of any contemporaries, and of the present generation, to that of history and posterity, if the one shall deem me worthy of any record on its pages, or tradition shall transmit any recollection of me to the other.

own public career or public deeds. That office belongs to them, and I shall consider my future fame fortunate, if it shall be regarded by them with a small portion of the favor with which the partiality of yourselves and your associates now contemplate it.

I shall soon appear before a hightr and more holy tribunal than any earthly one, which can unerringly judge of the motives as well as of the acts of man. To that tribunal I look forward with composure and confidence, that I shall be acquitted of ever having been prompted, in the discharge of my public duties, by any mean or selfish ends, or been animated by any other purpose than to promote the honor, the prosperity and glory of our common country.

Medals are generally struck by the authority, and paid for out of the public treasury of the government, and most frequently are intended to reward and signalize the triumphs achieved in war. But that which you now so kindly tender to my acceptance, is the spontaneous offering of private citizens, from their private purses, for public services exclusively in the civil department. I shall fondly and gratefully cherish and preserve it whilst life endures, and transmit it to my descendants under the hope that they receive and carefully guard it, with emotions of lively gratitude to my New York friends, as the proudest and richest legacy that I could leave them.

Democratic Meeting In Ray

In accordance with the notice previouslv given by printed hand-bills, set up in different parts of the county, a meeting of the democrats of Ray was held in the court house, at Richmond, on the 1st day of January, A. D. 1852.

On motion of Captain William M. Jacobs. Dr. Thomas A. King was called upon to explain the objects of the meeting, which he did, stating that they had met for the purpose of organizing for the ensuing political canvass, by making a declaration of the principles by which the democracy of Ray will be governed, and bv appointing delegates to the democratic state convention, and to the congressional district convention. His remarks were brief and appropriate, and conceived in a spirit of harmonv-

On the motion of Capt. William M. Jacobs, a committee of nine was appointed to draw resolutions for the consideration of the meeting. That committee consisted of the following gentlemen, to-wit: Captain William M. Jacobs, Colonel Benjamin J. Brown, Dr. John B. McGaugh, Colonel B. F. Smith, E. Sanderson, John E. Wells, Henry Boggess, Major Henry Lile, and James B. Turner.

The committee, after a short retirement, reported through their chairman, Captain William M. Jacobs, the following resolutions, which were read, and unanimously adopted by the meeting:

Resolved, That we still adhere to the principles contained in the resolutions adopted by the democratic national convention at Baltimore, and we pledge ourselves to support and defend the great political doctrines embraced in that platform of the national democracy.

Resolved, That, inscribing the Baltimore resolutions on our banner, and observing an unfaltering devotion to the union of the states, we will hold no political fellowship with the abolitionists of the north or the nullifiers of the south, and we discard, as unworthy of our confidence, all enemies of the union of the states, and all enemies of the union of the democracy.

Resolved, That we approve the compromise measures of the last session of congress, and we will rely3 upon them as a final settlement of the vexed questions which grew out of the slavery controversy, and we are opposed to the repeal or modification of the fugitive slave law, and demand its faithful execution.

Resolved, That we still cling to the republican doctrines contained in the celebrated Virginia and Kentucky resolutions drawn by Madison and Jefferson, which contained the platform upon which the republicans of that period rallied and swept the alien and sedition laws from the statute books, and checked the encroachments of federalism.

Resolved, That we subscribe to the well known Atherton resolutions, passed by the votes of the democratic members of congress, and by which the democracy manifested an open and determined opposition to the fell spirit of abolitionism.

Resolved, That we regard the right of instruction as a vital principle of republicanism. And representatives and senators are bound to obey in their legislative action the instructions of their constituents respectively, or resign; and the people have a right to instruct their senators in congress through the legislature, and to hold their members in the legislature accountable for any misrepresentation of their will, in giving instructions to senators, as well as in electing senators.

Resolved, That we hereby express our unqualified disapprobation of all acts of omission and commission, on the part of our public servants, calculated to involve our noble state in schemes of disunion, regarding it to be the first and highest duty of every patriot, and especially of those who have been placed as sentinels upon the watchtower of liberty, to denounce in its inception, without regard to personal consequences, every attempt to alienate one portion of the Confederacy from another, or to weaken the bonds which hold us together as one people.

Resolved, That we abhor calculations or combinations of men of opposite political sentiments for the purpose of securing the spoils of office; and we repudiate as unworthy of intelligent freemen, cherishing an attachment for the same great political principles, that spirit of intolerance which leads to the establishment of factious tests of political fellowship, founded in differences of opinion in regard to men and not measures.

Resolved, That we will join no faction which prescribes as a test of political fellowship either the support of or opposition to any man, however distinguished; but, sternly adhering to the old landmarks, we will continue to act upon the motto: "Union, harmony, self-denial, concession, everything for the cause; nothing for men."

Resolved, That the democracy of Ray, having remained united in principle, and acquiesced in the decisions of majorities in regard to men throughout the fiercest political storm that ever swept over the state, will not separate now, since all the questions that created division have been settled; and we, accordingly, pledge the united support of the democracy of Ray to the nominees of the national, state, district, and county democratic conventions, held according to established usage.

Resolved, That the chairman, with the concurrence of the meeting, appoint six delegates to the democratic state convention, to be called together by the state central committee; and six delegates to the congressional district convention, and that each delegate who cannot attend, shall have the power to appoint his own substitute.

Under this resolution, the chairman, upon the recommendation of the committee, and with the unanimous concurrence and confirmation of the meeting, appointed Samuel A. Richardson, Judge Daniel Branstetter, Colonel B. F. Smith, Aaron H. Conrow, Colonel John Hannah, and John Bales, delegates to the democratic state convention; and Colonel Benjamin J. Brown, Major Henry Lile, John E. Wells, James H. Gant, James W.

C. Wilson, and Doctor Thomas A. King, delegates to the congressional district convention; and Captain William M. Jacobs, with the concurrence of the democracy of Clay and Caldwell, as a delegate from the senatorial district, composed of the counties of Ray, Clay, and Caldwell, to both conventions, and that he be governed in his action, in both conventions, by the will of the democracv of this senatorial district.

Resolved, That we are willing to trust the defense of our principles to our distinguished fellow-citizen, Austin A. King, who, whenever he has been the chosen standard-bearer of the democracy, has signalized himself by his ability, zeal, and fidelity in the democratic cause, and we hereby instruct our delegates to the congressional district convention to use their efforts to procure his nomination as the democratic candidate to represent this district in congress.

Resolved, That when this meeting adjourns, it will adjourn to meet on the first Monday in June next, to nominate democratic candidates to represent this county tin the legislature, and that notice of the adjourned meeting in June be dulv given.

Resolved, That the proceedings of this meeting, duly authenticated by the chairman and secretary, be forwarded to the Platte Argus for publication, with a request for their publication in the other democratic papers of the state.

Resolved, That the chair appoint a committee of seven persons to report resolutions for the action of the meeting. Whereupon the chair appointed C. T. Garner, Esq., Colonel Joseph B. Terry, Eli Carter, Charles B. Allen, John U. Miles, Thomas Barber and A. D. Brashear,

Whereas, We regard the elections of this year with deep interest, involving not only the past and present principles and policy of the state and general government, but as calculated to exert an influence upon subjects of vital importance, that may hereafter arise. In view, therefore, and for the purpose of securing unity of action, harmony and strength, and a thorough organization of the whig party throughout the state:

Resolved 1st, That the whigs of Ray county, heartily concur with their whig brethren throughout the state, in the propriety of holding a state convention at St. Louis, on the third Monday in April next, to nominate candidates for state officers; electors for president, and for appointing delegates to the national whig convention, to be held in May next.

3d, That we are in favor of holding a district convention at Plattsburg, to nominate a candidate for congress; and we suggest the second Monday in May next, as the most suitable time.

5th, That we most cordially approve the course of our present chief magistrate, Millard Fillmore, and his administration of the affairs of the general government. *

6th, That we fully approve the measures of adjustment passed by the congress of 1850, commonly called the " compromise," and regard them as a full and final settlement of the questions to which they relate, and will not support any man for either state or federal offices who does not so regard them, or who advocates the repeal or modification of them, or any one of them.

7th, That in the administration of the general government by Millard Fillmore, the whigs of this nation behold with gratitude and delight the glorious triumphs of an enlarged partriotism over sectional prejudice and wicked machinations of fanatics, and enemies to the Union, and in the moral courage displayed by him, in the prompt and efficient execution of the laws in times of great excitement. In the wisdom and ability with which he has conducted our foreign relations, we see the sterling qualities of head and heart, that peculiarity Jit him for the high and responsible station he now fills. He is, therefore, our first choice for the next presidency; and our distinguished fellow-citizen, Colonel A. W. Doniphan, of Clay county, our first choice for the vice presidency - subject, however, to the decision of the whig national convention.

8th, That the blank in the second resolution be filled with the names of the following persons as delegates to the state convention, viz: Milo C. Nuckles, Jesse Esry, John U. Miles, Major W. Boyce, Eli Carter, A. D. Brashear, George I. Wasson, William Berry, Randolph McDonald, Colonel Joseph B. Terry, James S. Hughes, Elias Graham, Joseph Hughes, A. W. Morrow, Louis C. Bohannon, Charles B. Allen, O. P. Creason, Charles R. Shrewsberry, Thomas Hamilton, and A. B. Ralph.

10th, That the blank in the fourth resolution be filled with the names of the following persons, as delegates to said district convention, viz: Dr. Joseph Chew, C. T. Garner, Esq., A. J. Gibson, Dr. Wm. T. Bra-

11th, That our esteemed fellow-citizen, Mordecai Oliver, is our first choice for congress, and the delegates to the district convention are hereby instructed to cast the vote of this county for him.

12th, That the chair appoint a central committee of five persons to fill any vacancy that may occur among the delegates to either the state or district convention. Whereupon the chair apointed Dr. Jos. Chew, Major W. Boyce, C. T. Garner, Esq., George I. Wasson, and Mordecai Oliver, Esq.

13th, That the proceedings of this meeting be published in the Richmond Herald and Liberty Tribune, and that the whig papers throughout the state are requested to copy.

Richmond Academy

This institution is pleasantly situated in a retired and healthful part of the town. The school rooms are well ventilated, and in every respect well adapted to promote the health, comfort and convenience of the pupils.

Virtue, as well as knowledge, is the object of a sound education. Special attention, therefore, is given to the moral conduct of all the pupils of the school, as well as to their intellectual improvement, since it is evident that the one is almost useless, unless adorned and directed by the other.

While California is engrossing so large a share of the public attention, we must not overlook the great inducements that Ray county presents to those that are in quest of a western home. The interests of our immediate section of country have hitherto been neglected, from a want of the means to disabuse the public mind with regard to our resources, wealth and prosperity. Unfavorable reports have frequently been put in circulation in adjoining counties as to the true condition of old Ray, for the purpose of deterring emigrants from settling in it, and, at the same time, not losing sight of home interests, make their own counties the subject of laudation. As the Richmond Herald is the advocate of home interests, we deem it our imperative duty to set before the public mind some statements as to the soil, productions and climate.

It is conceded by all that have any knowledge of the soil, that in point of fertility it can not be surpassed by any in this western country. The rich loam extends to an astonishing depth, and may be tilled for years in succession without exhausting its productiveness. While the farmer in sections of the country less favored by nature is making use of strenuous efforts to restore the exhausted soil to a fruitful condition, he here has but to commit his grain to the soil, and with a moderate share of attention, may expect an abundant yield. The surface of the country is generally undulating, presenting to the eye of the beholder beautiful rolling prairies, skirted with an abundance of fine timber, and traversed by numerous streams of water, thus adapting it to grazing, as well as to the culture of all kinds of grain.

The staple productions are wheat, corn, hemp and tobacco; great quantities of which are shipped annually from different shipping points of the county, the principal of which are Camden and Hughes' Landing. A ready market can always be had at the different trading establishments at home for all kinds of produce.

The favorableness of a climate to the preservation of health, is always an important consideration in settling a country; we can with safety say that our county from its salubrious air and excellent water very strongly recommends itself in that point of view.

The efforts of our enterprising citizens are rapidly improving the appearance of the country. Villages are springing up throughout the country as if by the touch of a magical wand, and thousands of acres of land lying waste a few years ago, are now assuming the appearance of well cultivated farms.

Our community is an intelligent one - a thinking people, with whom law and order are safe. Vice and immorality no sooner raise their Protean heads to the public gaze than they meet with that censure and condemnation which they deserve.

It would be better, by far, for the man of moderate means to seek a home in a land like this, and by gradual accessions of fortune to become independent, than to be lured to the land of Ophir by idle dreams of glittering wealth.

The expectations of many that have gone to California have been blighted, who, after enduring innumerable hardships in pursuit of the yellow phantom, and expending all they possessed, return home depressed in spirits. The anticipations of but few in amassing splendid fortunes are realized, and some sometimes at the expense of health and happiness. It should, therefore, be a matter of serious reflection to those who go, to know whether they will ameliorate their condition in any wise by emigrating to the Eldorada of the ninteenth century.

On the 3d instant, between thirty and forty emigrants were landed at Hughes' Landing, from the steamboat, Monongahela. They were destitute of everything that pertains to comfort. Several of them were dangerously ill, and one of the number, named Brown, died on the bank a few minutes after landing. While one of the party went in quest of a physician, Mr. J. N. Hughes, with his characteristic promptness and philanthropy, had the whole of them conveyed to his dwelling, where he administered to their wants in a humane manner.

Doctor Crutchy arrived in due time, and did all that medical skill could do to alleviate the sufferings of the sick, and the next morning all were better, except a child, when our informant left. They were from East Tennessee, and intended locating near Millville.

Steam Boiler Explosion

It falls to our painful duty to record the destruction of the steamer Saluda, commanded by Captain Belt, by the explosion of her boilers, attended with an awful destruction of human life.

The boat was just leaving the wharf at Lexington, bound for Council Bluffs, on the morning of the 9th instant, between seven and eight o'clock, when the explosion took place, with a report that was heard for miles around, while in the immediate vicinity the shock was so great as to cause houses to tremble to their foundations. The air was darkened with fragments of the vessel, and scores of human beings without a moment's warning, were swept into eternity. When the citizens reached the spot, the most heart-rending scenes were presented to view, of which the imagination can possibly conceive. The shore was covered with the limbs and mangled bodies of the sufferers, their warm blood trickling down the banks, while the screams and the groans of the wounded and the dying filled the air, causing the hearts of the beholders to sicken, and the tears of sympathy to gush from their eyes.

Everything that was in human power was done. The boat was soon reached and the wounded and dying conveyed to the nearest warehouses, where every possible assistance was rendered that was calculated to relieve their sufferings or soothe their dying moments.

Through the exertions of Mr. Ball and others, several were saved from a watery grave, among whem was an interesting little child, both of whose parents were killed, and whom Mr. Ball, in the goodness of his heart, intends to adopt as his own.

The number on board is variously estimated, but it may be put down at two hundred, of which number, one hundred and thirty-five were killed, and thirty-five wounded so seriously that but few will recover. All of the officers of the boat were killed, with the exception of the mate and first clerk. The second clerk was literally torn to pieces, and the captain was thrown out one hundred yards from the boat against the bluff.

The city council and citizens of Lexington contributed $900 towards defraying the expenses that might be incurred, thus showing in a manner worthy of the highest praise, their sympathy for the sufferers.

The Saluda was a condemned boat, and the .captain of the Isabel had the caution to land some three hundred yards below her, saying that he knew she was an old boat, and that it would be unsafe to be near her, when she should attempt to stem the strong current above Lexington.

by Joseph E. Black, Esq., of Richmond, who was on the ground immediately after the explosion, rendering assistance to the unfortunate sufferers.

Feeling a deep interest in the welfare of old Ray, and knowing that the location of a college here must be a matter of the utmost importance and earnestly desired by every one who has the interest of his county at heart, we shall present a few more considerations to the minds of our readers.

On Monday, the 3d inst., a college meeting was held according to notice, and, considering the unfavorableness of the weather, there was a very good turn out.

The meeting was addressed by the Honorable G. W. Dunn, whose arguments cannot fail to make a deep impression, and to excite a lively interest in this matter of such vital importance to the county. We shall give a synopsis of the speech, together with a few suggestions of our own, desiring that the subject may be fairly laid before our people, who, seeing their interests, may act accordingly.

It is a matter of complaint among the people that they cannot obtain competent teachers' to fill their schools. Why is it so? The reason is plain and obvious. Persons of moderate circumstances are deterred from sending their children to a distance on account of the enormous expense that must necessarily be incurred, while such as are wealthy enough to incur these expenses wish their sons to become professional characters. We are, therefore, compelled to get such teachers as we can, who are, as often as otherwise, of more injury than benefit to the cause of education. Let us then rear up an institution among us, so that the man of moderate means, as well as the man of wealth, may be enabled to educate his children. We will then be able to send forth a corps of teachers into our county, of whose intelligence we may justly be proud ; who will give a new tone to society, inculcate new love of literature, and in a short time place us on a par with the most intelligent communities of the country.

The importance of having competent teachers to train the minds of youth, is a matter that is too frequently unappreciated and too lowly rated. The warrior, with a thousand victories inscribed upon his banner, or the statesman, encircled with all the glories he may possibly achieve, does not exercise greater influence than the teacher, who, unsurrounded by the paraphernalia of war or the pageantry of state, trains the youth either to become a terror to the society in which he moves, or makes him an honor to himself and a benefit to society and the country at large.

The very nature of our government requires that every man should think and decide for himself upon the most momentous questions - and not that a few minds should do all the thinking and deciding. But how can the people think rationally and clearly upon subjects they know nothing about? Suffer the masses to remain in ignorance, and they will be led by fanatics and demagogues, and our government must fall a victim to the very principles upon which it is founded, to-wit: the right of suffrage; the right of every one to decide upon all questions of government through the ballot-box.

The love you hold for your children and your country appeals to you; and shall you turn a deaf ear to the call, and permit the golden opportu- nity to pass unheeded and unnoticed? Should a college be located here, men of wealth and enterprise will flock into and around it. Thousands of dollars will be added to the wealth of the place, and every species of business will receive new impetus and vigor. This place would spring into new existence, and from other examples it may be safely asserted that our population would be doubled in five years. Look at Liberty. What was she a few years ago? It would have been hard to decide if it or this place was ahead. But how is it now? No sooner was a college located there, than hundreds flocked to the place, adding vastly to its wealth and enterprise; land increased fifty per cent; new spirit was infused into every branch of business, and in a few years Liberty has becom flourishing city. But the same opportunity is presented to us, and all we have to do is to embrace it, and our county seat will likewise become a wealthy, populous and thriving place.

The American Eagle

In the early settlement of the county, the only road leading to Clay county, (which was then regarded as the " Eldorado " of Missouri by most Kentuckians) passed up through the Missouri bottom the entire breadth of the county; and as fever and ague was'then quite prevalent, an impression prevailed that Ray was a " sickly county," when nothing could be farther from the truth. Even our bottom lands have become healthy from cultivation, and the upland part of the county is as favorable to health and longevity as any portion of the state. The position, geograph- ically, of Ray county, is such as to give it every advantage possessed by any county in upper Missouri, and its soil is fully equal to the best. Indeed, it is the opinion of many persons, who know the county and the state well, that there is more rich land in Ray than in any other county in Missouri. It is finely watered, well diversified with prairie and timbered lands; and for the growing of hemp, tobacco, wheat and corn, as well as for purposes of stock raising, it cannot be surpassed, and time will show it to be the " Bourbon " of Missouri.

The town of Richmond, situated on a high dividing ridge, nearly in the center of the county, seven miles from the Missouri river at Camden, and ten miles from Lexington, is proverbial for health. It is on the main state road from St. Louis to Liberty, Weston and St. Joseph, and all the Platte country; has a tri-weekly mail coach passing through it, and is on the main road from the Grand River country to Lexington, southwest Missouri, Arkansas and Texas.

If the people of Ray county are true to their own interests, and will build up and endow the proposed college; if they will foster their own mechanics and merchants, and their own -printer \ if they will have good schools at home, and not send their children away to be educated; and if the people of Richmond will go to work and beautify the natural advantages which the town possesses, and its merchants and mechanics deal liberally with the farmers; the day is not far off when a residence in Richmond, and a farm in Ray county will be sought after with eagerness.

Johnson Meeting

Pursuant to a call of the friends of President Johnson, a very large meeting of the citizens was held during the sitting of the circuit court at Richmond, Missouri, March 10, 1866, for the purpose of endorsing the president in his reconstruction policy, and the veto of the Freedmen's Bureau Bill.

At one o'clock, the meeting was called to order and on motion of Hon. W. A. Donaldson, George Warren was called to the chair, and on motion of Hon. G. W. Eunn, Col. A. A. King was appointed secretary.

The chairman, taking the stand, announced the object of the meeting, when, on motion of Honorable G. W. Dunn, the chair appointed the following committeemen to draft resolutions expressive of the feelings and political opinions of those in the meeting, viz: Honorable George W. Dunn, Governor A. A. King, Honorable W. A. Donaldson, Doctor A. B. Ralph, and Honorable H. P. Settle.

While the committee was retiring, Governor King was called back by the audience, and responded in an able speech, which was the fruitful source of much good, by showing to those that opposed ihe administration, the danger into which they would take our liberties, if successful.

Resolved, That we have undiminished confidence in the ability, integrity, and patriotism of President Johnson, and we will continue to give a cordial support to his administration.

tion and the Union, now, as in all times past, entitles him to the earnest support of the friends of civil and religious liberty throughout the Union.

Resolved, That we cordially approve President Johnson's veto of the freedmen's bureau bill, his policy of reconstruction, and his defiant opposition to the policy of Sumner, Stevens, and others, who persist in declaring that the Union has been dissolved.

Resolved, That the Union has not been dissolved, nor can it be dissolved; it was not dissolved by secession, because secession was unconstitutional and void. It was not dissolved by the armed attempt to take some of the states out of the Union, because the rebellion has been completely overthrown by our gallant armies; and it cannot be dissolved by those who assert that the Union has been dissolved, while President Johnson and his friends, constituting a large majority of the people of the United States, continue true to the Union and the constitution.

Resolved, * That we are in favor of repealing the provisions of the new constitution of the state, that conflict with the wise policy of President Johnson's administration, and with the principles of civil and religious liberty transmitted to us by our ancestors, the establishment and preservation of which cost so much blood and treasure.

Resolved, That the friends of President Johnson's administration will organize in accordance with the suggestions of the state central committee, contained in a circular signed by General E. B. Brown, chairman of the committee, by formation of liberty clubs, composed of all who agree with the policy of the national administration.

Resolved, That we regard it as our imperative duty to support the civil authorities of the state in the enforcement of the laws; and we propose to get rid of obnoxious laws whether contained in the new constitution or in the statutes, by having them repealed, and not by violating them, and that we will to the extent of our power, promote peace and order, and a love of the federal constitution and the union of the states among our fellow citizens.

Resolved, That while we claim the right to assemble and express our views of public policy, we accord to our political opponents the same unquestionable right.

Resolved, That we invite the co-operation of all persons, regardless of former political differences, who agree with us in sentiment, in the good work of upholding the constitution and Union, and the principles of civil and religious liberty.

Resolved, That the proceedings of this meeting be published in the Missouri Republican, Lexington Express, and in the Richmond papers, and that all papers friendly to our cause be requested to copy them.

After the reading of the resolutions, which were unanimously adopted, Judge Ryland, of Lexington, was called upon, and ably defended the president in his usual terse, eloquent and logical reasonings, at the conclusion of which, court hour having arrived, the meeting was adjourned.

Criminal Causes

On the 12th instant, Isaac Odell and James Duvall were brought before David H. Quesenberry, Esq., a justice of the peace of Richmond township, in this county, under a warrant issued by Elisha Riggs, a justice of the peace of Fishing River township. The warrant simply charged the defendants with -preaching, and commanded the constable to bring the defendants before the justice of the peace who issued the warrants, or some other justice of the peace of the county of Ray. Judge Dunn and C. T. Garner, Esq., appeared as counsel for the defendants, and the state was represented by Elijah F. Esteb, Esq., the circuit attorney.

The defendants moved the court to dismiss the cases, for the reason that the warrants charged no criminal offense against the defendants. The cases were ably argued before the justice, the counsel for the defendants taking the position that even if the section in the constitution, upon which the prosecutions were founded, possessed any validity after the decision of the supreme court of the United States (not yet published), holding it null and void, three things were necessary to constitute the offense charged, to-wit: That the party charged was a bishop, priest, elder, minister or clergyman, as required by the constitution; 2d, that as such bishop, priest, elder, minister or clergyman, he preached; and, 3d, that the party so charged preached without taking the oath of loyalty required by the constitution.

The warrants in the cases under consideration only charged the parties with preaching, without charging that they preached as bishop, priest, elder, minister or clergyman, and without charging that they had failed to take the oath of loyalty. They maintained that preaching was not of itself an offense against the constitution and laws of the state; that to constitute the offense punishable under the constitution, the party charged must preach as bishop, priest, elder, minister or clergyman, and must so preach without having taken the oath of loyalty.

Mr. Esteb, the circuit attorney, replied, in his usual able, fair, and gentlemanly style. The circuit attorney represents the state, and not any political party or religious sect.

Justice Quesenberry sustained the motions, dismissed the cases, and discharged the defendants, holding that preaching, instead of being a criminal offense, is in the highest degree commendable. This decision does honor to the head and heart of the justice, who is a worthy member of a different religious denomination from that of the parties accused. Messrs. Odell and Duvall are elders of the regular Baptist denomination, commonly called " Old Iron-side Baptist."

This result may be mortifying to Drake, Strong, Fletcher, and Babcocke, but the best way to avoid similar mortification in the future, is for them to join the friends of civil and religious liberty in repealing this relic of bigotry and barbarism, which ought never to have been placed in the constitution of a free people.

Towns And Villages City Of Richmond

The land on which the original town of Richmond is located was donated to the county of Ray, May 5, 1827, by John Woolard, Isaac Thornton, William B. Martin and William Thornton, the proprietors thereof.

The donation was made in consideration of the selection, by a commission legally appointed by the county court, of the site as a place on which to locate the permanent seat of justice of Ray county.

On the 20th day of July, A. D. 1827, the county court in session at BlufFton, ordered an election, that the proposition to remove the county seat to the place selected by the commissioners, and by its owners donated to the county of Ray, might be submitted to the people for their approval or rejection, as the law required.

On the 20th and 21st of August following, the election was duly held, and resulted in one hundred and eight votes being cast for the proposition and fifty-five against it; and in due course of time, as already fully stated, the county seat was removed, and public buildings erected, etc. Hence, Richmond owes its existence to the fact of the land on which the original town is located having been selected first by commisioners, and then by a majority of the qualified voters of the county as a site for the permanent seat of justice of the county of Ray.

Richmond was, when laid out, the county seat of territory since divided into eight counties, having the following seats of justice, to-wit: Carrollton, Chillicothe, Trenton, Princeton, Bethany, Gallatin, Kingston and Richmond.

Richmond was surveyed and laid out into blocks, lots, streets and alleys by Thomas N. Aubry, Esq., under the direction of William S. Miller, commissioner of the seat of justice, between the 24th of September and the 15th of October, A. D. 1827.

The town site was divided into one hundred lots, and these, with the exception of those reserved for the use of the county, were sold at public vendue, the sale commencing Thursday, October 25th, 1827, and continuing from day to day. The sale was made by beginning with lot No. 100, and selling each alternate lot till lot No. 1 was reached.

When the county court convened in special session, Monday, October 22, 1827, it changed the boundaries of lots 8, 9, 40, 41, 72, 73 and 100, by taking off' of each the space of twenty-five feet. The space thus taken off was reserved from sale.

The first jail in Richmond was located on lot No. 62, and the "prison bounds " thereof was as follows: Sixty rods square, with the jail in the centre; said space accurately laid off, and the distances marked by planting in the earth, to the depth of at least eighteen inches, at each of the four cardinal points of the compass, well charred, white-oak posts, nine inches square, rising four feet above the earth's surface. The jail itself, and also the first court house have been described.

Richmond was first incorporated November 19, 1835; and the following gentlemen constituted the first board of trustees: Berry Hughes, C. R. Morehead, H. G. Parks, William Hudgins and Thomas McKinney.

The first county road leading to and from the town of Richmond was established by the county court in November, 1827. It extended to Jack's Ferry, on the Missouri river.

One Anderson Martin was the first town constable of the town of Richmond. The town was again incorporated by act of the general assembly, approved November 9, 1857.

Richmond was laid out in the midst of a broad field of the "bright ever beautiful maize;" that is to say, where Richmond now stands, John Woolard, in 1827, cultivated a field of corn. John Woolard was an unlettered man, somewhat eccentric, but a kind neighbor, a warm-hearted friend, and an enterprising, public spirited gentleman. He has been dead many years, but has sons yet living in the county, who are upright and useful citizens.

Richmond, so named by the county court, Monday, September 24, 1827, is situated in sections thirty and thirty-one, township fifty-two, range twenty-seven, and on the northeast quarter of section thirty-six, township fifty-two, range twenty-eight, on the St. Joseph branch of the Wabash, St. Louis and Pacific railway, forty-four miles east of Kansas City, two hundred and thirty seven miles northwest of St. Louis, and sixty-seven miles southeast of St. Joseph.

Richmond is simply a fine old town, whose people are remarkable for urbanity, kindness, and genuine, old-fashioned hospitality; and in which a stranger, no matter whence he comes, so he conducts himself as a gentleman, is soon made to feel himself at home, and in the midst of friends.

It is surrounded by a country exhaustless in natural resources; picturesque and beautiful in surface configuration; rich, productive, and pleasant to see. It is the attractive business and social centre of an intelligent, enterprising, Christian community, and - to borrow the language of Paul, the apostle - it is " a city of no mean importance."

The main or central portion of Richmond stands upon the crown of a graceful swell, and the suburban portions are located upon the slopes of a succession of beautiful wooded hills that nearly surround the central town. The slopes abound in the most attractive building sites that command fine city and open valley views in almost every direction. It has scores of fine cottages, villas, and dignified old mansion homes, represent- ing the hospitable southern style of architecture so common in the south. The spacious veranda, or porch, is an almost universal accompaniment to these pretty, inviting home places, and the ample, shaded lawns and broad walks are in more pleasant contrast with the closer and more severely artistic surroundings of the average northern home. There is everywhere in this little, half-rural city an air of amplitude, ease, freedom and home comfort that is thoroughly enjoyable to the visitor.' The business town expresses solidity and permanency, rather than any effort at architectural display, being built in the plain fashion of the old time. Among the public buildings are a handsome court-house, two very pretty churches, and a plain, but massive and stately, high-school building. Two more churches are projected. Of late, a good many very pretty homes in the modern styles have been added, and, altogether, Richmond may be named among the most attractive towns of its class in the west. The business town is in keeping with the wealth and thrift of the country that fosters it. If it ever had a speculative period, is has long since passed. The business men are characterized with steady, sensible, practical and well defined methods of commercial life, and evidently prefer solvency and high credit to the exciting, spasmodic, and speculative ways of too many western towns. They have the confidence of the community, and preserve it as if it were their best " stock in trade." They never seem hurried or fretful, but move straight on from year to year with the greatest deliberation and confidence. A list of the business houses, manufactories and industries of Richmond in April, 1881, will, it is believed, be found of interest in after years, if not at present; such a list is therefore subjoined, as follows:

The Olympic Hall, completed in December, 1880, is substantially built, convenient, and commodious. It is well ventilated, tastily and comfortably furnished, and has a seating capacity of four hundred and fifty. The seats are well arranged and command a full view of the stage from any part of the hall. Olympic Hall does credit alike to its proprietors, Doctor W. W. Mosby & Son, and to the city of Richmond.

The Richmond Opera House, owned by a joint stock company, under the corporate name of Richmond Hall and Library Association, was built in 1880, and cost seven thousand dollars. It is fifty feet in width by one hundred feet in length, and will seat about eight hundred persons. The hall is thoroughly ventilated, well furnished, and provided with attractive scenery. Perhaps no town in the west has a more capacious or better hall for public entertainment, than is the Richmond Opera House.

The old cemetery, due north of town and just within its corporate limits, was laid out in 1845. It is the burial place of many distinguished persons.

The remains of Bill Anderson, the notorious desperado, were deposited in the old cemetery. The people, of course, without exception, deprecated the man and his dastardly and revolting acts, perpetrated in the spirit of diabolical revenge, indiscriminately directed, and dishonoring alike himself, his followers, and the cause he claimed to defend; they knew, however, that in death, he was harmless, and that, as a fellow mortal, he was entitled to decent burial.

This fact is not mentioned on Anderson's account, but simply to show that in the hearts of the Christian people of Richmond, the spirit of resentment perishes, when the ability of the culprit to do further harm has ceased, and, sharing the common lot of mankind, he lies powerless in the embrace of death.

The new Richmond cemetery, near the west end of South Main street, on the north side thereof, was laid out in 1871. It contains three acres and is situated on a high hill commanding an extensive and beautiful prospect of the surrounding country.

The dead are everywhere, and the last kind offices in their behalf are to accord them burial in conformity to established custom, and to place above them some testimonial of the esteem in which they were held while among the living, or that may at least " implore the passing trib- ute of a sigh." In this respect the Richmond cemeteries are enduring monument, not alone to the dead, but likewise to the humane and tender promptings that govern the hearts of the living.

Several beautiful and costly shafts are reared in the new grave-yard, and, for a " silent city of the dead," it is perhaps as neat and inviting a place as one could desire to see.

At half past three o'clock, Thursday, May 23, 1867, a band of brigands, eleven in number, heavily armed with navy pistols, entered the city from the east, by three different streets. One detachment came in by the first street south of South Main street, running parallel thereto, and passing up that street to its intersection with College street, turned north to South Main; another party passed up the latter street, while the third came into the city by North Main street. The bandits concentrated in the vicinity of the M. E. Church South, and all but one dismounted, and repaired immediately to the banking house of Hughes & Wasson. Four of the party entered the bank, and with pistols presented, demanded the money therein. The other six remained outside, in front ot the bank building, and kept up a continual fire upon citizens who dared to show themselves on the streets. Immediately upon entering the bank, one of the bandits fired at the book-keeper, Willis Warriner, Esquire, as he retreated in the direction of the vault. At the report of the pistol, Mr. Warriner fell to the floor and continued prostrate so long as the robbers remained in the bank, though he was uninjured.

There happened to be only thirty-five hundred dollars in the bank, and when that amount was seized, the robbers turned upon Mr. George I. Wasson, the cashier, and covering him with their pistols, commanded him to get more. But upon Mr. Wasson's assuring them that they had taken all the money on hand, they dismissed him without further molestation.

The robber who remained on his horse, tcok a stand in the middle of the street, near the bank. He was mounted on a very fine and welltrained horse. Having wound the bridle-reins around the bow of his saddle in such a manner as to give greater tension to one rein than to the other, the horse continued to move round in a circle, thus enabling his rider to see about him in every direction. With a navy pistol in each hand the horseman fired up and down the street, while the robbery was going on in the bank.

The citizens began to rally to drive the bandits out of town. Frank Griffin, from his position behind a tree in the court-house yard, was discharging his gun at the man on the horse without effect; when the latter discovered Griffin's head from behind the tree he fired at it, with unerring aim. The ball penetrated the brain, and Griffin instantly expired.

Young Griffin's father, William Griffin, after the killing of his son, ran up to the bank, supposing the robbers had vacated it. Upon stepping within he was confronted by the robbers, and started to run out of the house, when he was fired upon; the ball, taking effect in the back, passed through his heart.

John B. Shaw, a highly respected gentleman, and at that time mayor of the city, was in the middle of the street, near the Shaw House (now Wasson House), of which he was proprietor, endeavoring to rally the citizens, when he was shot in the abdomen. He lived but a few hours. He also was killed by the man on horseback.

After the robbery, the bandits rode rapidly out of town. They were ' followed by a posse of citizens a distance of about nine miles, but none of them were captured.

The pursuing party fired upon the robbers near Holt Station, on the Hannibal & St. Joseph railroad, wounding one of their horses, which was left behind and died next day.

One of the robbers, whose name was supposed to be William McGuire, was captured in St. Louis the following winter, brought to Richmond, and lodged in jail; and a few months after his capture, the man who sat on his horse in front of the bank and killed John B. Shaw and young Griffin, was apprehended in Kentucky, by John W. Francis, then sheriff of Ray county. This bandit's name was supposed to be Devers. He was also confined in the Richmond jail.

McGuire had a preliminary trial before a justice of the peace, and was held to await the ensuing session of the circuit court. They were both taken from the jail, however, by a vigilance committee and hanged.

The following persons were in the bank when the robbers entered: Geo. I. Wasson, cashier ; Judge Willis Warriner, book-keeper, and Major Robert Sevier, Ephraim January, and Ben Chipeze. The three last named were in no way connected with the bank. None of the above named gentlemen were injured.

A Terrible Cyclone

On June 1, A. D. 1878, the city of Richmond was visited by one of the most violent and destructive cyclones that ever passed over this section of the country. Nearly every thing in its pathway was utterly demolished. Huge trees were torn up by the roots, buildings swept away, and human and animal life destroyed.

For several days previous the weather had been unusually warm and sultry; the air was heavy and oppressive, the mercury in the thermometer indicating a temperature ranging from eighty-five to ninety degrees, Fahrenheit.

The morning of June 1st was bright and tranquil, but later in the day clouds gathered, and early in the afternoon the wind, accompanied by a slight fall of hail, began gently blowing from the southwest. Immediately after the hail ceased falling, a wind from the northwest arose, and, continuing probably ten minutes, was succeeded by a suffocating calm of about three to five minutes' duration. Within twenty or thirty minutes after the falling of the hail, the clouds in the southwest seemed to be falling apart for a moment or two, presenting ragged edges; then, suddenly, streams began to shoot out from the margins of the clouds, and to mingle together by a twirling, intertwining motion.

The calm above alluded to was caused by the current from the northwest meeting a similar current moving in the opposite direction. After this momentary cessation of wind, a strong breeze from the southwest set in, followed by a violent rush of wind, the immediate precursor of the terribly devastating cyclone that was to follow almost instantaneously.

The wind began its destructive work about three miles southwest of town. Moving in a northeasterly direction, it struck the railroad at J. S. Hughes & Co.'s coal shaft; then turning northward, it struck six tenement houses, occupied by miners, and owned by J. S. Hughes. These houses were moved out of position and otherwise damaged, though not seriously. Leaving the tenement houses, the cyclone slightly injured six dwellings situated next to the railroad. The upper story, back wall, and porch of W. R. Jackson's house, in the extreme southeastern part of the city, were torn off. The next house in its northward course, was that of Dr. Noah Gaines, a one story frame, which was considerably wrecked but not torn down. Bounding across the street at this point, the storm unroofed the old homestead residence, a one story brick, of Jacob Whitmer. Mrs. Haynes was struck and damaged seriously.

In its onward passage north of Dr. Noah Gaines, it levelled to the ground a small frame building, occupied by a colored family; next a large one story frame building, property of the late Major Sevier, but occupied at the time, by one Mr. Deer and family. The house was utterly demolished. Striking, next, the fine brick residence of J. S. Hughes, Esq., it blew down the ell and unroofed the main building.

Next in the storm's pathway stood the Bid well property, occupied by a man named Berry, and his family. The building, a two story frame, was totally destroyed; and so, also, was the large two story frame residence of W. R. Holman. Veering to the west from the residence of J. A. Hughes, it struck and completely destroyed the residence of G. A. Hughes, as well as his very fine young apple orchard. The residence last named is on College street; west of it and on the same street, are the residences of Judge Charles J. Hughes and Messrs. B. J. Menefee and P. V. Bernard, all of which were injured. Of the three houses mentioned, Mr.

Bernard's is farthest; it is a one story brick, was unroofed, and a portion of its walls blown in. This building marked the western limit of the storm's fury, in the city.

The cyclone was somewhat narrowed in its destructive course through the city, after leaving South College street, which extends east and west; yet from this street in its northward passage, it extended over two entire blocks of buildings, as well as wrecking some, and wholly demolishing other of the buildings on the east side of the college grounds; and first of the latter was the one and a half story cottage residence of Mrs. Bassett, occupied by C. J. Hughes, Jr., which was totally destroyed. Dr. H. P. Jacobs owned and occupied a new and beautiful residence, which in its fury, the storm-god spared not; every vestige of the building was swept from its foundation. Neither did it respect the Presbyterian Church, a large, costly and substantial brick structure, but razed it to the ground. The next building to the northward, was the story and a half residence of Mr. E. Spear, which, though not blown down, was greatly damaged; then the one story brick of Philip J. Woodson, Esq., was unroofed. Next, to the northward stood the Baptist Church and residence of R. E. Brown, Esq., side by side, which were likewise swept away by the irresistible rotary current.

We have followed the storm in its desolating progress to Lexington street, and, going back again to south College street, and beginning with the block next east of the one last described, and separated therefrom by Thornton Avenue, we mention first the two story frame dwelling of Judge Joseph E. Black, which was entirely destroyed; then the residence of Captain G. N. McGee, a total loss; next the one story residence belonging to Mrs. Mary Brown, but occupied by a tenant, also completely demolished, and the residence of Ephraim Holman, which shared a similar fate.

Passing east, in our description, to the residence of Doctor Frank Gaines, on Lexington street, we have to mention that building as also a total loss. The residence of Mrs. Amelia Jacobs, in this neighborhood, was also totally wrecked.

Again returning to South College street, we begin with the block east of the one last mentioned; and first, the dwelling house of Paul Wertz was literally blown away; and so, also, were the residences of N. P. Warriner, and of Mrs. Morrison, and Mrs. Carson.

Proceeding with his melancholy task, the writer has again arrived at Lexington street, at a point where the cyclone again narrowed its destructive work, and thence northward, embraced only two blocks. First, on the west, starting northward, is the lumber yard of Brown & Limerick, which was completely wrecked; the calaboose, a stone building, was partially blown down, but the blacksmith-shop of Ball & Asbury was totally destroyed. In the same block, but east of the buildings mentioned, stood the residences of the late Judge Burgess, Colonel Dodd, and Houston Jacobs, all of which were swept away.

East of this block, the residences of George Jacobs and Wyatt Baker were destroyed. The Shaw House (now, 1881, Wasson House), the next building north of Ball & Asbury's (now Asbury's) shop, suffered great injury. Its east wing was blown down entirely, and every portion of the building received considerable damage. Prior to the storm it was a threestory building, but has since been repaired, without replacing the third story. East of the Shaw House was the residence of James Harmony, and east of that the elegant two-story residence of John P. Leeper, occupied by Doctor G. W. Buchanan, both of which were entirely destroyed. Immediately east of the buildings last mentioned stood the wagon factory of Burgess Bros., the buggy factory of O. T. Dickenson, and the residences of Isaac Burgess, Captain Ben. Wigginton, and R. F. Asbury, all of which were swept away.

Our description has brought us to South Main street. In the two blocks of buildings on this street, extending to the northern limits of the city, were about twenty-five houses, all of which were utterly demolished, among the number we may mention the residences of David Whitmer, Benjamin Jacobs, Fritz Lierman, William Marshall, Thomas Word, J. W. Garner, Samuel Nading, John G. Ballard, T. J. Casey, F. W. Joy, Thomas McGinnis, and George Warren.

The above were all one and two-story buildings, and were a total loss. In this were located the African M. E. Church, and the school-house of the colored people, both of which were torn to fragments.

On the street leading northward from the public square, and which is west of the buildings last mentioned, the residences of Mrs. Mary Brown, Thomas D. Woodson and W. A. Donaldson were greatly damaged; Mrs. Brown's residence being blown to the ground.

The following business houses on the east side of the public square sufferred material damage, viz: The three story brick dry goods store of S. R. Crispin & Co., at the southeast corner of the square. The Masonic hall was in the third story of this building, and was completely destroyed, as the third story was blown off, as well as part of the second story; the house occupied by C. Sayre; W. R. Jackson & Co.'s furniture store; Jackson & Asbury's saloon; boot and shoe house of William Marshall; drug store of Taylor & Smith (now Smith & Patton); and the store house of Monroe Bros. All of these, except the first mentioned, were two story brick buildings.

Just north, and across the street from the last mentioned, the lumber yard of Jackson & Patton, and the wagon manufactory of Powell & Son, were destroyed.

South of the public square the business .houses of J. P. Quesenberry, Dr. M. C. Jacobs, and Kiger & Wertz were partly unroofed; and the same is true of Mosby & Son's drug store and the Ray county savings bank.

The post office was literally blown away. The court house was unroofed and otherwise damaged. The livery stable of C. W. Schweich & Co. was considerably injured.

Thus have we given a minute description of the entire devastated portion of the city, which included fully one-third of its area. The total loss of property was estimated at over $200,000.

This devastating wind current was a genuine cyclone, its motion being rotary and irresistible. It was funnel-shaped in appearance, resembling a water spout.

It is said that during its passage through the town, not a drop of water fell. There were ascending and descending currents, and flying fragments darkened the earth. After the cyclone had passed, its desolated pathway presented the appearance of having been deluged with muddy water. This was owing to the fact that a heavy rain preceded the cyclone a moment or two.

On leaving the town, the cyclone veered slightly to the east; thence north, striking Crooked river; thence west, demolishing the residence of Thomas J. Bohannon, and carrying down the iron bridge at that point; thence its course was northeast, to Hiram Settle's, seven miles from Richmond; there it rose from the earth, and moved directly east, passing over Morton, a small village in the eastern portion of the county. It again descended to the earth at Highsinger's, a point twelve miles from where it arose, at Settle's; thence taking a northeasterly direction, it lay waste everything in its course.

The storm is estimated to have been three minutes in passing through the city. It swept over that portion of the city in which were located most of the mechanical shops and factories.

The destruction of property was great, indeed, but that was not irreparable. The energetic and enterprising citizens have so repaired and rebuilt the desolated district, that now (1881) scarcely a vestige of the great cyclone of 1878 remains. The buildings which were destroyed , have been replaced with new, more costly and more substantial ones. The loss of human life makes the saddest recollection of this terribly destructive cyclone. The following persons were either killed outright, or died from injuries received:

Captain William M. Jacobs was caught in front of C. D. Sayre's, by the falling debris from the store and the Masonic hall, and completely buried, and was not found till eleven o'clock the following day (Sunday).

John Campbell had started from M. C. Jacobs' drug store for his home in the eastern part of the town, and when having reached a point on Lexington street, just beyond Brown and Limerick's lumber yard, was killed by the passing missiles.

James Duncan, at Powell & Son's shop, was caught up by the wind, carried one hundred yards, and mortally wounded. A missile was driven into his head, entering near the nose. He lived but a few moments.

William A. Donaldson, Esq., was on his way from his law office to his residence, when he was struck by flying debris, and died in an hour or two.

An infant child of Charles Ottman's lived till Tuesday, when it died of injuries received in the storm. Mrs. Salina Bohannon died on Thursday morning.

Following is a list of those who were seriously wounded: F. W. Joy, leg broken; C.J. Hughes, Jr., leg broken; Willie Buchanan, Miss Emma Shackelford, Miss Pauline Shackelford, Mrs. Perry Jacobs, Robert Asbury, Charles and Lee Asbury, Dr. G. W. Buchanan, George Warren, George Crispin, James Donaldson, Blanche Harmony, Mrs. Thomas McGinnis and four children, Thomas Bohannon and wife, V. P. Bernard, Miss Mollie Streets, Colonel T. J. Dodd, Mrs. Paul Wertz, Robert Offutt, Mrs. Belle Warriner, H. C. Burgess, Thomas Burgess, Isaac Burgess, Mrs. William Marshall, William Burgess, Miss Mary Hughes, Mrs. Carson and two daughters, G. W. Schweich and infant child, Miss Laura Belle Hughes, Albert Flumen, Mary E. Sheets, Thomas Word, Mary E. Casey, David Whitmer, G. T. Limerick, Mrs. Julia Shweich.

A number of colored persons were also seriously injured. Many persons lost everything they had, and were left wounded and helpless. Those who escaped threw open their doors, taking in the wounded and homeless. Every one did all in his power to relieve the unfortunate sufferers. People from all parts of the country gathered in Richmond, eager to lend a helping hand.

Whereas, An unprecedented storm has visited our city, leaving much loss of life, destruction of property and personal suffering in its pathway; therefore, be it

Resolved, That a committee of arrangements and relief be appointed to co-operate with the mayor and city authorities, consisting of ten persons, whose duty it shall be to receive any contributions that may be made for the relief of the poor and destitute, and to provide for and take care of the many who have been injured; and generally to make such arrangements as the circumstances may require, in aid of the suffering of our fellow citizens, occasioned by the recent storm, and for the burial of those who were killed.

Resolved, That all citizens who may feel disposed to render any assistance for the object contemplated by the foregoing resolution, will please to make application to some member of this committee, or to the mayor or members of the city council, who will see that all contributions are honestly and strictly applied for the relief of those needing it. That the thanks of this meeting are hereby tendered to our neighbors from the -country, and citizens of other counties, for the interest and sympathy they have manifested and the aid so freely and cheerfully given, and to the medical fraternity for their prompt and skillful attention rendered to the suffering.

Resolved, That Berrien J. Menefee, be,'and he is hereby appointed treasurer of this committee to receive all contributions and donations made to the relief board in money or other things, and that he apply the same under the direction of Judge Chas. J. Hughes, chairman of this committee, or of George I. Wasson, mayor of the city, and that full reports be made from time to time to this committee of the amount and character of the contributions made and how distributed.

The following general committee was then appointed, viz: A. W. Doniphan, James Hughes, B. J. Menefee, C. T. Garner, Sr., Dr. W. W. Mosby, Captain J. L. Farris, Colonel J. W. Black, George N. McGee, Thomas D. Woodson and John C. Morris.

On motion, Judge Hughes was made chairman of the committee. On motion of J. T. Child, a committee composed of gentlemen from each township, to solicit aid, was appointed.

On motion of James W. Black, Major R. S. Williams was instructed to employ a sufficient number of hands to remove the debris from the streets. The daily wages for laborers was fixed at $1.25. The proposition of Major McKissack, to furnish ice and transportation free was accepted, and the magnaminous offer properly acknowledged.

The committee of relief met Tuesday morning. A number of telegrams were received, which the mayor was instructed to answer. Judge C. J. Hughes was directed to instruct the different towns, as to the condition of Richmond. C. T. Garner, W. P. Hubbell and W. I). Rice, were appointed to ascertain the real condition of the sufferers, to take their names and ascertain their actual wants.

At the suggestion of many citizens from the country, a public meeting was held in the court house yard on Monday. This meeting was attended and participated in by a large number of citizens from different parts of the county. This meeting resolved that the judge of the county court be requested to make an appropriation, if in his judgment such an appropriation was needed, to the sufferers of Richmond.

Committees were also appointed in all of the townships to solicit aid from the citizens, and to receive and forward all contributions to the relief committee at Richmond.