Joplin Township (part 1 of 6)

Joplin Township

In attempting a pen picture of the great " lead metropolis," and a portrayal of the various features which have given her place among the most important municipalities of the land, the writer is by no means sanguine of success. The enormity of the task is only recognized after weeks of diligent researcli. .loplin is yet in her infancy, although an extraordinary vigorous growth lias crowded into the few years of lier existence achievements of which cities of far greater pretensions might well be proud. Behold her, the " wonder of the West," a splendid city, covering an area of two square miles, containing upwards of eight thousand inhabitants, and all the adjuncts of first class modern civilization, grown up in little more than a decade of years. Joplin stands to-day the center of all the greatest lead and zinc regions in the world. A business center because it is a railroad center, having railroads in all directions except due south, where one is principally graded and will doubtless soon be in operation. A manufacturing center because here are established numerous lead and zinc works, white lead works (the most extensive, and in fact the only one of the kind in the world), foundries and machine shops, woolen mills, cornice works, carriage and wagon works, paint and oil mills, etc., etc. A financial center, because of inexhaustible mineral resources, wholesale houses, banks, etc. Twelve years ago the present site of Joplin was an uninviting waste of prairie, cut by water-courses, with here and there a clump of bushes or solitary tree. The only evidences of civilization were the log cabins of John C. Cox and the Rev. Mr. Joplin, two of the pioneer settlers of Jasper county. Of course there were others in neighboring parts, but not in this immediate vicinity. To-day a metropolitan city of almost fabulous wealth nestles on the scene as if by magic. To-day forty-nine miles of streets are traversed by myriads of busy beings lost in the activities of life. To-day the ring of bells, the shrill scream of whistles, the clank of hammers, the hum of machinery, and the rattle of vehicles over graveled ways, "join in one grand, harmonious chorus to the sons of toil. To-day fine, broad streets, over eleven miles of which are macadamized, substantial two and three story brick business houses and dwellings, lead and zinc works, white lead works, foundries and machine shops, churches, schools, daily and weekly newspapers, flour, and woolen mills, cigar manufactories, wagon and carriage works, railroads, telegraph lines, telephones, gas-works, water-works, a fire department, a street railway, hotels, banks, and numerous other elements, included under the term of modern improvements, give evidence of what can be accomplished by men of broad ideas, liberality, and genuine pluck. The population is steadily on the increase, and the work of building up and enlarging the town with more buildings, streets, public buildings, manufactories, and educational institutions, is still going on with unabated vigor. During the first years the growth of the city was that of a mining camp and frontier town. Much energy was misdirected and misspent. Plans were hastily laid and carried out with a view only to transient needs; but now the upbuilding is entirely different; the people see, and are profited by, the mistakes of the past, and all is done carefully, solidly, with intelligence, and commendable liberality.

Not only is the city progressive, but the surrounding villages are imbued with the same spirit of progression. As the grand oak sends its roots far reaching in all directions for necessary nutrition, so Joplin claims them as

City Of Joplin

Galena, Empire City, Thurman, Webb City, Carterville, Oronogo, Smithfield, Carl Junction, and Blende City, are, strictly speaking, little more than suburban towns, each paying royalty to the great city around which they cluster, and upon which they are in great part dependent.

Laying aside all disposition to exaggerate or elaborate, there are found sufficient simple, solid facts regarding her upbuilding, cognizant alike to the aged, those in the prime of life, and the school-boy, to excite admiration and wonder, and facts instructive to encourage the people to labor for the permanency of institutions, the support of education, and the practice of industry, justice, and morality. Judging from the past and considering present advantages, it is reasonably safe to predict that within the next ten years Joplin will be a city of at least 30,000 inhabitants. Her reputation is established at home and abroad; she possesses all the necessary concomitants for a healthy symmetrical growth and the future will surely disclose a development beyond the most sanguinary expectation of those who now speak or write in praise.

The writer desires it distinctly borne in mind that it is not the purpose of this article to give a full, elaborate, and detailed account of all that has transpired from the birth of the city to the present; the space allotted will not admit of such, and it is certainly a matter of no inconsiderable importance to judge of those things which ought to, and those things which ought not, or need not, be given record. Both time and space are limited. It is, therefore, necessary to give only a comprehensive view or outline of the city's history, telling what it was, and is, giving the dates only of the most important events, accounts of significant facts, episodes, and narratives, to show the character of the people and the condition of society, together with such general and comparative facts, statistical and otherwise, as will show the immense amount of money and labor expended in ])ermanent improvements from time to time, the vast increase in population and business, the introduction of railroads, a statement of the number and character of manufactories; also, an account of a number of important public and private enterprises, the founding of churches, schools, and civic and benevolent societies.

It is now in place to give all that could be ascertained concerning the reverened gentleman from whom the city undoubtedly gained its name. Eev. Harris G. Joplin was a native of Tennessee, born about the year 1810. The father of the subject of this sketch died when he was quite young, leaving him and a widowed mother. They were not abundantly blessed with this world's goods, and hence great want and inconvenience were experienced. Possessed of an indomitable will, however, young Joplin acquired a very liberal education and studied for the ministry. He was ordained in western Tennessee, and at once moved to Missouri, locating in Greene county. There he engaged in preaching and was shortly afterward married to a Miss Simms, of that county. He came to this vicinity in 1840, locating just outside of the corporate limits of the city, near the graveyard, east of East Joplin. There he built a large log-cabin and improved a farm of about eighty acres. He employed a number of negroes, but in connection with his ministerial labors gave personal supervision to all work on his farm. He organized the first Methodist Episcopal congregation in this part of the county, and held meetings in his cabin home. By a gentlemen who was intimately acquainted with him, he is described as an extraordinary man in many respects. He had a clear, well trained voice, was highly excitable, deeply in earnest, and at times would grow most eloquent, holding his audience spell-bound. His height was about five feet eight inches; his weight probably one hundred and fifty-five or sixty pounds. He wore his hair short, shaved clean, had a very light complexion, dressed neatly, but economically, and was of an amiable disposition. While here he built up a large congregation considering the sparse settlement of the country. Devoted, ambitious, and liberal to a fault, he soon found himself so financially embarrassed as to render it necessary for him to dispose of his property, and at the earnest solicitation of friends in Greene county, was induced to return to his former field of labor in the fall of 1844. He labored in Greene and surrounding counties until his death, which occurred in 1847. Near the log-cabin of the Rev. Mr. Joplin was a spring, the source of the little run which now divides East Joplin and empties into Joplin Creek proper. This little stream was originally Joplin Creek, the larger one subsequently taking its name. The city took her name from the creek. As regards the authenticity of the above the writer has only to say that every efibrt has been made to get at the exact facts with results indicated.

The city of Joplin is situated in the southwestern part of Jasper county, at the junction of the St. Louis & San Francisco, the Missouri Pacific, the Kansas City, Fort Scott & Gulf, and the Girard Branch of the St. Louis & San Francisco Railways. It is forty miles south to the Arkansas line, five miles west to the Kansas line, and ten miles southwest to the northeast corner of the Indian Territory. The city is the union of two Joplins and Murphysburg. The former was laid out by John C. Cox, Sr., the latter was founded by our eminent and enterprising townsman, Patrick Murphy, The history of Joplin must be divided in accordance with the actual facts and logic of events into two periods. The first is the period from the laying out of Joplin and Murphysburg to the reception of the cliarter. The second from the charter to the present. The first period might be subdivided into two periods, from 1870 to March 14, 1872, the date of the first incorporation by act of the county court. The second period of the first division would be from the first incorporation to the charter.

Picture hi 1868 - The First Discover!/ of Lead - Coming of Messrs. Moffet, Sergeant, Davis, and Murphy - Laying out of Joplin and Murphysburg - Rivalry between the two Towns - Disturbances - Petition to County Court for Incorporation - First School Election - First Census Taken - Action of County Court Declared Illegal - Petition to Legislature for City Charter.

The great West has become proverbial for its growth and development, and particularly for its towns and cities. During the past decade the country has witnessed with wonder and astonishment the great tide of immigration to the West, the filling up and cultivation of the vast region between the Mississippi and t]ie Rockies, which but a few years ago was inhabited only by the red man, the hunter, the trapper, and an occasional squatter out of and beyond the pale of civilization. In an almost incredible time hamlets have grown to towns of importance, these in turn have become metropolitan, and even on the wide waste of prairies, where seemingly were the fewest natural advantages, cities have sprung forth as by magic, and have grown to opulence and power, until they are recognized as great business, financial, and intellectual centers. These have thus arisen because of geographical positions, of navigable streams, and railroad facilities, securing the trade and products of Urge agricultural districts, or of natural resources of the earth, in its rich deposits of gold, silver, lead, and other valuable minerals. May it not fittingly be said that the germ of the " city of lead" was planted in pre-historic time, when the Maker of the universe gave unto each section of the earth its part, and that this only awaited the development of science and the coming of intellectual man to burst its surroundings and lift it from subterranean cells to the grand pre-eminence of to-day. Certain it is that proud, prosperous Joplin owes her existence to treasures which, through all the ages, were hidden in the'bosom of the earth. Revert but a decade and a half of years. The site of our present flourishing city was then a vast, unbroken stretch of prairie, covered with long grass, a clump of bushes, and an occasional tree beneath whose boughs the deer and kindred animals sought shelter alike from the storm and tlie scorching rays of the noon-day sun, while here and there in distant view could be seen a small farm-house, surrounded by an illy constructed fence, and, perhaps, several nninviting specimens of log-cabins. Little did the emigrant think, as he made his weary way over the hills of southwestern Missouri, in the hope of finding home and wealth in the gold fields of the Pacific slope, that he need but stop, tickle the earth with pick and shovel, and reap a most bountiful reward. Little did he dream, as he slept under the drooping boughs of the lone elm tree, from which our suburban village derived its name, of the untold millions which lay waiting to be claimed. From the most reliable information, the first discoveries of lead in this vicinity were made in 1849, by one David Campbell, of Neosho, Newton county, and a miner of large experience. From traces on the surface, however, it was then supposed that the mines had been worked by Indians, or the Spaniards, at a much earlier date. Some raining was done directly after the discoveries of Mr. Campbell. Mr. John Fitzgerald came and erected an air furnace near the mouth of the ravine on which now are situated the Lone Elm Company's works. This was destroyed during the war, and little thought or attention was given the old diggings, that which is now so valuable being then held as second-class farming land. Although mineral in considerable quantities had been taken out, no thorough developments had been engaged in until the fall of 1870. About this time the surface and other indications excited the curiosity of several experienced miners of the West, who immediately proceeded to prospect and examine more land. The first shaft was put down about five hundred yards north and a little west of Main Street bridge crossing Joplin Creek. Soon after, and near by, were erected the furnaces of Messrs. Moffet & Sergeant. These gentlemen came from Oronogo, in August, 1870, where, for several years previous, they were engaged in mining operations. Patrick Murphy and W. P. Davis came from Carthage in the summer of 1871. In October of that year they built a smelting furnace in the draw north and a little west of the corner of Main and Broadway streets. They shipped their first car-load of mineral in November following. During this time the greatest excitement prevailed, and hundreds of fortune-seekers poured in from all sections. Novices in the use of the pick and shovel, as well as miners of experience, set to work, intent on pecuniary gain. The population of the camp had already been swelled to nearly four hundred, most of whom were living in tents, while some had hardly so much as a blanket to shield them in hours of slumber from the winds and storms. About this time John C. Cox, an old settler, who owned much of

Citt Of Joplin

Mr. Cox commenced selling lots and soon had the satisfaction of seeing a large number of houses, unpretentious of course, erected in various parts of the town. The name of Joplin spread rapidly and immigration increased. In the same month Messrs. Davis & Murphy obtaind by purchase a considerable tract of land on the west side of the creek opposite Joplin city, and laid out the town of Murphy sburg. In the month of August they commenced the erection of a storeroom on the new town site. By their liberal policy in disposing of town lots they soon had the very great satisfaction of seeing a number of other stores, and house after house put up in quick succession, until in the fall the towns became formidable rivals, each growing rapidly and the two comprising a resident population of about five hundred. As shown by the county records, the original town plat was recorded September 4, 1871. In the meantime miners were extending the field of operations, and meeting with varying success, many becoming discouraged and returning to their homes, while others with more pluck and perseverance, were meeting with good success. During the fall and winter a company styled the '' Joplin Mining and Smelting Company," representing considerable of capital, was organized at Kansas City, for the purpose of prospecting and developing certain lands in the vicinity, which had been leased. Owing to unfavorable weather no very extensive operations were engaged in by this company. During the winter, however, operations throughout the mines were never wholly suspended and the furnaces of Moffet & Sergeant and Davis & Murphy, five in number, were run constantly to their utmost capacity. Business houses and dwellings were also erected whenever the weather would permit, and both towns gained in population steadily, business was brisk, and money plenty. To give a general idea of the business of each town at this time, it is in place to add that in Joplin there were two hotels, two livery stables, two groceries, two dry goods stores, one hardware, and one furniture store, one meat market, one boot and shoe store, three general stores, five saloons, a drug store, news depot, restaurant, carpenter shop, etc. In Murphysburg were the smelting furnaces of Moffet & Sergeant and Davis & Murphy, one hotel, one livery stable, three groceries, three dry goods stores, one meat market, one general store, one boot and shoe store, two drug stores, three saloons, three restaurants, one wagon and blacksmith shop, carpenter shop, news depot, and one newspaper.

The two towns, however, were considered mere mining camps, and few thought they could become more, although there were about two hundred houses in each. These for the most part had been hastily and poorly con- striicted out of rough native lumber, intended only for temporary habitation. Without railroads or other outlets, seemingly isolated, there was little that would lead the ordinary mind to anticipate for the place mcire than a passing existence. Of course there were a few very creditable buildings erected by men of sufficient judgment and foresight to recognize coming importance. Joplin presented the better appearance; Murphysburg was the larger and possessed greater wealth. On March 7th, 1872, appeared the lirst issue of The Mining JSfews, a weekly newspaper, established and edited by P. Schnur who came from Carthage, where, for a time, he had been connected with the Carthage Banner. Too much could not be said in commendation of the public spirit of the gentleman who at that earlj' day attempted an enterprise so essential, and yet so uncertain of success. The citizens were sadly in need of an organ whereby they could more conveniently and surely become acquainted with that which transpired, than by the unsatisfactory method of personal gossip. The wants of the place could be but poorly set forth and therefore imperfectly understood. The mining interests particularly were liable to be misrepresented; a great want was evident and that want was fortunately supplied by Mr. Schnur, as indicated above

On February 8th, 1872, was recorded the Joplin Mining and Smelting Company's first addition to Joplin, and on February 4th, 1872, Murphy's addition to Murphysburg was recorded. As was to be expected in these towhs wl)ich had so rapidly sprung into active life, where there -were neither town, nor township, nor local officers for the maintainance of law and order, there were naturally many rough characters, who, having everything their own way, created many disturbances, and gave the place an unenviable reputation abroad. This was carried so far that it was found necessary to take immediate steps to suppress the lawlessness which rendered unsafe both life and property. Pursuant to notices circulated during the day, and by mutual agreement, the citizens of Joplin and Murphysburg held meetings in their respective towns on the evening of February twenty-seventh, for the purpose of securing some means by which the notoriousness, drunkenness, careless shooting, and rowdyism which had frequently became so intolerable, might be stopped. In Murphysburg a large number of citizens congregated at Breazeales' store, a new and spacious building. The meeting was opened by calling John B. Sergeant to the chair, and appointing C. J. G. Workizer as secretary. Mr. Murphy stated the object of the meeting, and suggested that the incorporation of the two towns in one would secure the proper officers to maintain law and order. A committee was appointed to act in conjunction with the committee from Joplin to take the sense of the people in regard to petitioning the county court for an act of incorpora- tion. On the following day the committee met in the News office, at Murphysburg, for conference. Mr. Shortess, of the Joplin committee, stated that their people were unanimously in favor of the incorporation of the two towns, and cited the advantages to be secured from such a union. Mr. Carter made a similar report in behalf of the people of Miirphysburg, and urged that as a matter so much affecting future growth, prosperity, and happiness, there should be harmony and unity of action, and that the object be accomplished as soon as possible. Peter Schnur and W. H. Fallis were appointed a subcommittee to draw up a petition to the county court, praying for incorporation, and cause the same to be circulated among the people. The petition was signed by nearly everyone to whom it was presented. A meeting was also held in each town for the purpose of selecting five persons, to be appointed by the county court, to act as trustees until an election for such officers was provided for. The name suggested in the petition was Union City. Messrs. Murphy and Shortess, having been appointed as delegates to present the petition to the county court, proceeded to Carthage March fourth, but found that they had been misinformed as to the meeting of that body, it having adjourned, on the Saturday evening previous, until the fourteenth instant. At that time the petition was duly presented, and, after a hearing, was granted. The gentlemen suggested were constituted a board of trustees. The board was accordingly organized, necessary additional officers were appointed, and thus ended the " reign of terror." From this time forth the growth of the place has been more rapid. The action of the people in securing union and incorporation seemed to have inspired a degree of confidence in the stability of the place, and a respect for law and order among all classes, which was not manifest before. Miners and business men no longer hesitated to bring in their families; new business houses were opened almost daily; town lots were in demand, and were being sold at the rate of from twenty-five to fifty per day; school-houses and churches were talked of; dwellings, many of them of a better class than were before desired, were erected as fast as workmen could be employed, and these were filled up by a quiet, orderly, and industrious class of people. There was a corresponding increase in the number of miners, mines, and general development of the mineral lands. The name of Joplin spread abroad until it became familiar, not only all over the state, but was spoken of by eastern capitalists as the coming lead metropolis of the West. All things evidenced prosperity. East Joplin City was filed for record March 20, 1879. About the same time "Porter's addition to Murphysburg" and "Murphy's second addition " to the same were made. The former was recorded on April 8th, and the latter April 16, 1872.

On the first of April, Mr. M. W. Staiford having been commissioned postmaster of Union City, removed the office to the west side, and the old Blytheville office was discontinued. After the two towns had been incorporated into one there were those, particularly on the east side, who were dissatisfied. Mass meetings were held by the oppo sition to test the legality of the act of the county court. On April first the town board was summoned to appear forthwith at Carthage and show cause why they should not be deprived of their official functions as " so-called trustees of the so-called town of Union City." The so-called board of trustees obeyed the summons but soon found that they could not obtain an impartial hearing before Judge Hendricks on the ground, as expressed by himself, that he was opposed to incorporations. A change of venue was accordingly taken and the case was sent to Shannon county in the thirteenth judicial circuit. There the case remained for a time in statu quo but was finally dismissed.

On April twenty-third an election was held to vote upon the proposition of forming a new or independent scliool district, embracing the territory within the corporate limits. The proposition was voted down principally because of a misunderstanding on the part of many as to the location of the school building.

On the afternoon of the twenty-third instant the city was visited by a terrible tornado which leveled everything in its path. Great damage was done to property, but fortunately, and miraculously it would almost seem, no lives were lost, and very few were badly injured. The Fallis House, a splendid new frame structure, was formally opened on the evening of May eighth by a social gathering. In this month the Jasper Lead and Mining Company was organized to operate in this vicinity with a capital of two hundred thousand dollars.

On May twenty-third was recorded the "Joplin Mining and Smelting Company's Second Addition," and on June third following the First addito East Joplin city was filed for record. Two weeks later Cox's first addition to Joplin was placed on the records. In this month the first steam pump was put in operation by Messrs. McCrum & Co. The " Pioneer " was a sixteen horse-power engine, and was brought by wagon from Baxter Springs, This was important in that previously deep mining could not successfully be engaged in because of imperfect drainage facilities.

July 4, 1872, was very appropriately observed by a grand celebration at the Shoal Falls, some miles south and a little west of the city. Delegations came to meet the Joplin hosts from- Neosho, Baxter Springs, Carthage, Seneca, Granby, and other surrounding towns. It was estimated that more than five thousand people assembled at the "JSIiagara in embryo " to celebrate the national anniversary. John Wesley Johnson of Neosho was the orator of the day. The exercises were fittingly closed with a display of fireworks in the evening.

Two more additions were made to the city in 1872 as follows: Patton's addition to Murphysburg, Augnst 10, 1872; Taylor's addition to East Joplin city, December 6, 1872. These additions were not only laid ofi^", but there was an active and steadily increasing demand for lots. Houses were going up on every hand and Joplin was having a genuine " building boom." During this fall a very necessary want was supplied. Heretofore no banking institution had been established and the people, especially the business men, felt greatly the need. Accordingly, in September the Joplin National Savings Bank opened its doors to the public. The officers were S. B. Corn, president; John H. Taylor, vice-president; W. H. Graves (formerly cashier of the Oherokee County Bank, Baxter Springs), cashier. The first election in Union City was held October 5, 1872. This was the general election lor national, state, and county officers. There were seven hundred and sixty registered voters, of whom five hundred and fifty-three deposited their ballots. Joplin Lodge No 287, I. O. O. F. was organized on the evening of November first, a charter having been received granting authority sometime previous.

The first census of the city was taken, the report being made to the city council on the evening of December first. This report showed a population of two thousand seven hundred and seven, besides about one thousand two hundred living just outside the corporate limits.

Notwithstanding the rapid growth of the place and the flourishing condition of aftairs in general, there was an evident want of school advantages. So far no definite steps had been taken to provide for these. Schools, it is true, had been carried on. One taught in the spring by a Mr. Harrel had been reasonably successful. Some time in the fall a graded school had been opened up by J. H. Burris and Mrs. Lou M. Creech, both educators of considerable experience. In the latter part of the year, however, a greater activity and concern in the matter was shown. On the east side a new brick school-house, seventy feet long by twenty feet wide, and two stories high, was in the process of erection. The building, when completed, was to cost five thousand dollars.

In December a post-office was granted the East Side, with J. C. Orner as postmaster. A hook and ladder company was organized, one for each town. The East Joplin City and Mining Company was also organized. The company had been formed upon the stock plan, for the purpose of buying and selling and developing mineral lands, and also for the sale of town lots in

East Joplin and farming lands adjacent. The officers of the company were J. H. Taylor, president; Geo. P. Gates, vice-president; J. A. C.Thompson, secretary; S. B. Corn, treasurer. As the year drew to a close all things betokened prosperity. New and richer mines had been discovered. Thirteen furnaces were in active operation. Business was far be3^ond the most sanguine expectations. A church had been built, and numerous other necessary improvements were continually being made. Yet there were discordant elements. The disposition on the part of some to fight incorporation to the bitter end had caused the matter to be again carried into the courts. A hearing was had and the action of the county court was pronounced illegal. Thus Union City was done away with, and the original names, Joplin and Murphysburg, were submitted in its stead. At a special session of the county court, held January 11, 1873, for the purpose of incorporating Murphysburg, the question as to the boundary line between the two towns became quite a bone of contention between their representatives, and the honorable body being unable to make a decision determined to see for itself how " the land lay." Two days thereafter the court made its appearance, and after viewing the locations of the towns decided that if there must he a division the creek was the natural and proper boundary line. The order for the incorporation of Murphysburg was not then given, however, as the court gave it as their opinion that the town of Union City was still valid and in force, notwithstanding the decision of the Barton county circuit court. Sometime previous a movement had been inaugurated for the purpose of securing a special charter from the state legislature uniting the towns under one general government. An election on the proposition of application was had and carried. In the meantime, and for immediate protection, application for separate incorporation was made to the county court and granted. Although a committee of twelve had been appointed to draw up the outlines of a charter the work was accomplished principally by 1. W. Davis, a prominent attorney. When completed it was presented to the General Assembly by John H. Taylor and T. B. Dorsey, who were a committee appointed for that ])urpose, together with a petition to grant a city charter containing the substance of the draught sent with petition. A bill granting to the "city of Joplin " a charter was passed March 23, 1873 (see history of city government). On January 21 the new school-house was dedicated with appropriate exercises.

February second following the Congregationalists had organized a church of that denomination, and on the twenty-first inst. Byers & Murphy's addition to Murphysburg had been recorded.

Reception of the Charter - First Officers under Charter - Puplic Improvements - Condition of the City at the Close of 181 3-187 i - Charter I}iadequate - Burninrf of Hannibal Smelting Works - The Year 187 j - Public Improrements - Mining Statistics - Business, etc. - The Years 1876 and 1877 - The last half Decade - Burning of the White Lead Works - Railroads - Conclusion.

The Year 1873. - With the reception of the charter was ushered in an era of almost boundless prosperity. The lack of confidence in the efficiency of the city government produced by factional animosities peremptorily disappeared, and all seemed inspired with a new vitality. Indomitable energy and rare business talent combined with judicious liberality gave the city a new impetus which has rendered ever memorable that epoch in her history. The first officers under the charter were, of course, appointed by His Excellency, Governor Woodson. These entered upon their duties at once. Peace and law were established and improvements were universal. Those who had means were no longer afraid to invest in laudable enterprises and business was at full tide. During the month of April Main Street was macadamized, and in the early part of the summer a number of large smelting furnaces were erected. The first issue of the Mining Journal made its appearance June 28, 1873. It was a daily newspaper established by Messrs. Lea & Shortin and was published on the east side. One of the most important enterprises of the year was the erection of the large brick hotel corner of Fourth and Main streets. It was built by Messrs. Davis & Murphy and Mofibt & Sergeant, and others. Work on the foundation was commenced about the middle of Jul3\ In that month a machine and repair shop was established by Louis Blum, formerly of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a gentleman of experience in the business. The bank of Joplin was instituted by Messrs. Mofiet & Sergeant of this city and Mr. W. T. Botkin, a banker of large experience from Baxter Springs, Missouri. The first officers were E. R. Moff'et, president, and W. T. Botkin, cashier. About this time the subject of establishing zinc works at Joplin was taken up by men of capital and enterprise. The question as to the advisability of so doing had previously been agitated to some extent, but considering the heavy shipment of fuel which would be rendered necessary it was deemed economy to ship the mineral instead. By further investigation, however, it was shown that the establishment of such works would be of almost inestimable value to the city and that the difference in the cost of transportation was a matter of minor consideration. Accordingly, Hon. Henry T. Blow of St. Louis, who had been in consultation with a number of prominent citizens.

proposed to establish zinc-works at Lone Elm, if the proper support could be obtained. The estimated outlay was $100,000, and it was found that the amount could readily be raised. Thus a new branch of industrywas to be opened which would afford hundreds with steady and remunerative employment. The next, and perhaps most important, tiling to be secured was a railroad. Although there were railroads all around, none as yet had tapped the "center of industries" to carry off the products of toil. At that time shipping facilities were very imperfect, the nearest railroad station being Minersville (now Oronogo), some eight or ten miles distant. In the latter part of July a tire company was organized in each town. The Joplin Opera House was formally opened on the evening of August ninth. It was built at a considerable cost bj' an association known as the Opera House Company. In September the new Methodist Episcopal Church (South) was nearing completion. The first teachers' institute was held October first' second and third, and was conducted by Prof. S. B. Ormsby, and was accounted very successful. The election for city ofiicers occured in this month, the candidates for city mayor being E. R. Moffet and Lee Taylor. The contest was quite close and a considerable feeling evinced. The First Presbyterian Church of Joplin was organized December twenty-eighth, by Mr. Glasscock, assisted by Rev. Mr. Powelson of Neosho. Since the charter, additions in the city have been made as follows; Pichers' addition to Joplin, recorded May 12, 1873; Porter's second addition, May 28, 1873; Moffet's subdivision, June 7, 1873; Cox's second addition, June 10, 1873; Joplin Mining and Smelting Company's third addition, October 3, 1873. The Joplin cemetery was recorded September 8, 1873. It consisted of forty acres of fine rolling prairie situated about a mile and a quarter southwest of the city. The year 1873 had been crowned with many valuable achievements. Industries had rapidly grown into immense proportions, and the future of Joplin was to a great extent unmistakabl}^ forseen. jSTew mineral lands in all directions had been discovered and developed. During the year no less than twentyfive million pounds of ore had been taken from the ground, yielding at least eighteen million jiounds of pure pig lead; streets had been macadamized; hotels, school-houses and church edifices erected, and all things combined to insure perfect tranquility, with a happj', contented and prosperous people.

The Year 1874. - The year 1874 found the city well established, well known throughout the entire state and the principal points in the East, and progressing with rapidity and solidity. The charter, however, was inadequate. Not only were objectionable features pointed out, but sufficient powers were lacking for carrying on the different functions of the city government. In

Jannarv I. W. Davis was sent to Jefferson City to secure an act amendatory and snpplennentar}' thereto; also an act establishing a court of common pleas at Jopliii. His efforts met with success. The former act was approved b}' the legislature January 4-, 1874-, and the latter February fifth following. With an eye to business, Mr. Davis returned bearing a commision, properl}' signed by the Governor, by which he was made the first judge of this court, the first Monday in March being the day set apart by the legislature for the commencing of the first term. Judge Israel W. Davis, at nine o'clock of said day, ordered Sheriff" Zane to open the court in due form, which was done. The court met in the second story of the city hall building, On April seventh, an election was had for the purpose of choosing a county justice for the district comprising Joplin and Galena townships, and also township officers. This passed off" quietly, a light vote being polled. During the spring and early summer a difference arose between the city council and the city marshal, J. W. Lupton, which resulted in the removal of the latter from oflEice. The removal was considered by the greater part of the citizens as purely an usurpation of authority, and on June fourth a mass meeting was held, in which resolutions expressive of the wishes of the people were drawn up, demanding a repeal of all resolutions, orders, and ordinances made by the council looking to the removal of Mr. Lupton in any way, except by due process, and in a competent court; and further advising that, as all: officials are but servants of the people, when those elevated to office by reason of spite and malice refuse to consult the wishes of their constituents, it is fitting that they resign their positions, and allow others to be chosen in their stead. Several resignations were offered and accepted. At the election for city officers, in October following, Mr. Lupton was vindicated by the citizens, who returned him to office by a large majority. The most disgraceful and deplorable event of the year was the burning of the Hannibal Smelting "Works, in Picher's field. About two o'clock on the morning of July twentieth a party of between forty and fifty masked men made their appearance at the works, and ordered the men there at work to gather up their personal effects and prepare to vacate, as they were going to take possession. A portion of the band then escorted the employes to a safe distance from the works, while the others placed under the building and furnaces the weapons of destruction, and in a few moments the furnaces were blown to atoms, and the frame structure was a mass of flames. After the fire had made good headway the band stole away as quietly as they came. The alarm of fire was quickly sounded in the city, the fire and hook and ladder companies, and scores of citizens, who had been awakened by the -26 explosion, hastened to the scene of conflagration. Little could he accomplished, however, as the flames had made such headway as to preclude effective work, and in a short time the entire building was a mass of smouldering ruins, and thousands of dollars worth of property disappeared by the hands of ruthless incendiaries. The act was perpetrated probably because of a. dissatisfaction which existed between certain miners and Mr. Picher, in reference to the royalty paid on black-jack minerals raised upon his land. On the morning of November fourth the fairest portion of Eawt Joplin was reduced to ashes. The Are broke out a two o'clock a. m., in a shed in the rear and attached to a bakery and restaurant building at the foot of Main Street. Notwithstanding the most strenuous exertions on the part of the citizens, M'ho acted promptly, with the new fire engines and the hook and ladder companies, the Are fiend continued on its course of destruction, and in less tlian an hour an entire block had given way to the flames. The loss was estimated at seventv-five thousand dollars. No insurance. During this vear two newspapers were started, the Bulletin and the Democrat. Both flourished for a season, but finally succumbed. The Joplin Opera House was re-opened. The Masonic and Odd Fellow fraternities dedicated the new cemetery given them by the city by appropriate ceremonies. The year was especially remarkable for the lai-ge amount of real estate which was disposed of in the city and surrounding country. The city improvements were far superior to those formerly made, indicating greater concern and confidence.

The Year 1875. - To chronicle all the important events of this year would require a chapter in itself. It is necessary, therefore, to record only those ol especial consequence. On March twentieth the Landholders' and Smelters' Association was organized with oflicers as follows: J. B. Sergeant, president; John H. Taylor, secretary; W. P. Davis, treasurer. Following this, and possibly because of it, the McCosker smelting furnaces were burned. The fire broke out about three o'clock on the morning of April fourth, and as the fires in the furnaces had been put out twenty-four hours previous, it was only reasonable to suppose that the buringwas the work of incendiaries. A ver}' important thing in the early part of the year was the establishment of a free reading-room. In May the first boiler and machine shoi)S were established in the city by Hugh Dyer t^' Co. They were located near the Lone Elra Mining and Smelting Company's works. On June sixth the city hall, a two-story frame building, situated on Broadway, between East and West Joplin, was burned. The fourth of July was appropriately observed by a grand celebration at Shoal Falls. It will be remembered that in July of the i)revious year the Hannibal smelting furnaces were destroyed by midnight marauders. On July twenty-seventh of this year nineteen persons, principally

:niners, -were arrested at the instance of Miles Mix, a detective, and taken to charged with complicity in the burning. They were placed under bonds of $ljOOO each to appear at the following term of court. Two were tried, but having proved an alibi all were dismissed. During the summer this section was visited with terrible floods. These were greatest in the latter part of July and the first of August. Mining operations for a time entirely ceased. Joplin Creek, which usually afforded hardly suffi- water for washing mineral, and that little supplied by the numerous titeam pumps which were in continual operation along the valley, tnore nearly resembled the Mississippi. People living on the lowland between the two towns were driven from their homes. Houses, bridges, pigs for cleaning mineral, etc., were swept away; nothing movable was left. Hundreds of shafts were caved in, necessitating not only enormous expense in making others, but great delay. The loss to Joplin was estimated at over $200,000. Numerous persons were drowned. Perhaps the saddest instance was that of Mr. and Mrs. Hartinan, formerh' of this city, who had located at the Shoal Falls for the purpose of entertaining pleasure seekers who frequent that admirable and scenic resort. They had erected an excellent building a few rods from the falls, and were sparing no pains or means to beautify the place, when the waters came in a deluge completely surrounding them. At first escape was possible, but as the flood seemed to be subsiding little danger was anticipated until it was too late. The water arose again with great rapidit}^, bursting in through the windows, and driving the occupants to the upper story. Only one person, a gentleman, was with them at the time. Soon it was found necessary to cut a hole in the roof and escape to the housetop. What must have been their thoughts? What the hopes and fears, which, like the swift flight of eagles, coursed through their minds? There on the roof of a wrecking building, liable to be carried away at any moment by drifting timbers, they remained in a helpless and seemingly hopeless condition. A large drift, with extended arms, came floating -down upon them, sweeping everything in its way. Although despairing, they clung to the floating timbers. One (the gentleman above referred to) grasped the boughs of a tree, but was unable to pull himself up out of the water; there he held fast until rescued some twenty-four hours thereafter, his flesh being terribly lacerated. The last he saw of Mr. and Mrs. Hart, inan they were clinging to a log, which was bobbing up and down, striking trees, and swinging around in such manner as to render it impossible for them to hold on any length of time. Thus they found a watery grave. The -election for city oflicers, M'hich occurred in October, was quite close, there having been a very hotly contested campaign. In December Messrs. Davis be present, and even the most sanguine friend of the institution tliought that this first session would be the last. But notwithstanding all opposition a class of twenty-two gathered in the lecture hall on the opening day of the session. This unlocked for success excited the cupidity of some of the most unprincipled men in the opposition ranks, and then began a system of scheming, which lasted for more than a year, and tried to the utmost the watchfulness and the sagacity of Dr. PeTit, upon whose shoulders the whole burden of the undertaking now rested. Men who had been bitter enemies of the school, who had cast all the odium on the school which they could conceive of, now sought positions in its faculty and j^retended to be warm friends, not only of the school, but also of its head. The members of the faculty, too, seeing a prospect of financial gain, and not satisfied with their pro rata of the fees, clamored for a division of the capital stock and a deciding voice in the management of the college afiairs. Continual bickerings among themselves and persistent attempts to oust Dr. PeTit characterized this and the facul':y of the succeeding term. Twice during the year Dr. PeTit resigned into their hands the management of affairs, but each time had to resume authority after a brief trial on their part in order to save the college from ruin. Only by his indomitable perseverance and pluck was the college tided over this tempestuous period. All his time and energy and every dollar he could raise was put into the college, and at the' close of the spring session, in July, 1881, a new catalogue was issued, and in October following a new session was inaugurated, with a faculty composed of some members of the spring faculty and some new men. Duringthe summer of 1881 the enemies of the college were not idle. Every scheme they could conceive of to injure the college was put into execution. But in spite of all their efibrts a class of thirty students gathered in the lectureroom at the opening of the session of 1881-82, and a few weeks later, owing to the small-pox epidemic in Keokuk, some twenty more students entered, making a class of fifty-four. The college seemed now to have reached the acme of success, but manifold trials were yet to assail it. The faculty proved as unmanageable as the first one had done; and, incited by their example, the students quarreled among themselves. Still the session passed off all right, and in the spring of 1882 a class of thirty-four students was graduated. But it became very apparent to Dr. PeTit that an entirely new faculty was necessary to insure the success of the school, so he closed his contracts with all the old members except two, and these - one to remove]to the East and the other to devote himself to other business - resigned. This spring (of 1882) found the affairs of the college in great straits. A new faculty was to be hunted up and secured; the Illinois State Board of Health, incited by iDJurious reports from enemies of the college, bad decided not to register diplomas from the college; the Medical Society of Jasper county, in their meeting in April, at Carthage, bad passed condmenatory resolutions against it, and refused to affiliate with its members or graduates; and the Southwest Medical Society indorsed these resolutions; and following soon after these acts, Benningbam c^ Co., a Isew York publishing bouse, published, with damaging comments, a private business letter which Dr. PeTit had written to them. Things looked desperate indeed, and most men would have given up an undertaking that was beset with so many and great obstacles. But, with characteristic determination, Dr. PeTit stuck to the work, secured a faculty of young, vigorous, and capable men, and issued a new catalogue. Forty students matriculated at the opening of the session in October, 1882, over half of them having either attended a course of lectures in some other college or been in active practice over five years. The work of the session went on actively and peaceably. For the Urst time since the beginning of the undertaking, the faculty worked together in harmony and with intent to advance the interest of the school rather than their own aggrandizement, and, in March, 1883, they graduated a class of nineteen, after having subjected them to a severe and critical examination. The standing of the school during this session rose very perceptibly, and bv spring it could count many friends, where before it saw none but enemies. men of sterling worth and ability sought chairs in its faculty, but this time only two vacancies occurred, and these were owing to removals from the city of the incumbents. At the close of the session improvements were made in the college buildiiigs, the faculty was increased in number, and a hospital was established in connection with the college. The affairs of the -college had l)een brought to a permanent basis, and the future looks bright with promise.

Newspapers. - Thefirst paper published in Joplin was the Joplin Mining News, which was issued in what was then Murphysburg, on the seventh day of March, 1872, b}'^ Peter Schnur, who still controls the paper. Its form was a quarto, and its size 24x36 inches, seven columns to the page; its subscription price $2 per year. The citizens took a commendable pride in their first newspaper, and supported it liberall}', so that it proved a successful enterprise from the start. In the spring of 1873 the paper was enlarged to eight columns to the page, and has so remained to the present time, nor has its management ever gone out of the hands of the original proprietor. In the first political campaign after its establishment it espoused the cause of the Republican party, and it has since been the acknowledged organ of that party in Jojtlin. In December of 1875 Joplin then having become a city of between seven and eight thousand inhabitants, and its business interests having kept pace with its rapid growth in population, Mr. Schnur conchided to try the experiment of publishing a small daily paper. A number of prominent citizens encouraged him in the enterprise, while others tliought it was a foolhardy move, and, if started, the paper would have a brief and inglorious existence, lie accordingly, on the twentieth day of that month, set afloat the Joplin Daily NewSy the first daily newspaper published in the city. It was a small quarto, four columns to the page, printed in the afternoon, and was delivered to subscribers at fifteen cents a week. It took well on all sides, and the tender of advertisements for its columns was so liberal that on the very next day its publisher found it necessary to enlarge the paper to five columns to the page. The enterprise, like the first weekly, proved a success from the start beyond the expectations of its founder. In less than a year it was enlarged a second time, and twice thereafter, until it had reached metropolitan proportions, and was printed as a morning newspaper, containing the Associated Press telegraphic reports. Tlie expense of the latter, however, proved too great a burden, and the press reports were discontinued after a trial of about six months, and the News ^ resumed its old position as an afternoon paper. Though somewhat reduced in size it continued to be the largest dailj' paper published in southwest Missouri, and at present writing is a seven-column quarto, and remains under the immediate management of its original proprietor. Like the Weekly News it has always been Republican in politics, though quite conservative in its tone.

The Sunday Herald was established in 1877, the first issue being on March fourth, by the Herald Printing Company, comprising D. C. Farrar, R. T. Sitterley, and A. "W. Carson, all practical printers, and the latter with ten years' experience as a publisher. Four previous attempts at establishing Democratic papers had resulted in disastrous failures to the proprietors. The outlook was not the brightest, but faith in the enterprise and promise of future growth of Joplin, induced the founders to make the venture. Mr. Farrar had charge of the mechanical department, Mr. Sitterley the editorial, and the business management was placed in the hands of Mr. Carson. In November following the Daily Herald was established as a morning paper, and from the date of their first appearance neither has ever missed an issue. The business management has been continuouslv in the of Mr. Carson, and whatever of success has been awarded the enterprise may be ascribed to his persistent work, industry, and enterprise.

JoPLiN Water-wokks. - From the earliest daye of Jopiin to the completion of her water- works, every enterprise of the city had suffered almost incalculably from the lack of an abundant supply of good water. The numerous pumping shafts in close proximity to the town constantly drained the surface for a hundred feet or more. The people were dependent for all the ordinary uses for water upon their cisterns, or upon water wagons that hauled water from springs located several miles in the country. A long train of evils and inconveniences followed as a consequence of such an altogether insufficient supply. The steam boilers at the numerous pumps, smelters, factories, etc., were necessarily fed by the acid water taken from the deep shafts which was so destructive in innumerable cases that work was suspended in consequence. These evils had seemed almost insurmountable even by many of the most worthy and enterprising citizens. The citr o-overnment was so restricted by law that it had no power to raise the necessary capital for building water-works. The only way the city could induce the building of works was by an agreed compensation to some water company for fire-hydrant service.

The result of the city election of 1880 demonstrated the fact that the tax-payers of the city, from the smallest to the largest, were almost unanimously in favor of pushing this plan to a successful issue. The new council soon passed the proper ordinances for procuring the names, and very soon afterward advertised for proposals. A committee consisting in part of members of the city council, and in part of prominent citizens, was appointed by the mayor with instructions to receive all proposals, examine the same, and select and report to the city council the one they should consider the most favorable. The following gentlemen constituted the committee; viz.,]W. E. Maynard, mayor, L. A. Fillmore, P. Murphy, J. Hewitt, (). H. Richer, A.

C. Blakey. This committee held daily sessions for about one week. To them were submitted three propositions, one by Mr. Carroll E. Gray, of St. Lonis, one by Mr. Paul B. Perkins, of Geneseo, Illinois, and one by Mr, Charles H. Fuller, of Decatur, Illinois. All these, together with the whole question of water-works, the most suitable system for the city, and the details of the operation of such works, were carefully considered [at great leno-th and in the light of all information which the committee could obtain. As a result of its labors all the members of the committee unanimously approved the proposition submitted by Mr. Perkins, and in a very extended report, which was published in the city papers December 22, 1880, they submitted that proposition to the cit}^ council with the recommendation that it be adopted by the council and submitted to the legal voters of the city for ratification. The proposition of Mr. Perkins was adopted by the city council and approved by the mayor, and a special election was called. That election was held January 11, 1881, and the following was the result of tlie vote as canvassed and declared: 1,229 votes for the proposition, 31 votes against the proposition.

The certificate creating the Joplin Water Company was issued on the ninth day of April, 1881. The capital stock is $124,000. The incorporators were Oliver H. Picher, Patrick Murphy, and David B. Sears. The present officers of the company are O. H. Picher, ipresident; P. Murphy, vice-president and treasurer; L. P. Cunningham, secretar_y ; and C. J, Lewis, superintendent. The works were constructed in the summer of 1881, and on October twentieth a public test of the works was made. The council by ordinance accepted the works and took control of the fire hydrants on the first day of November. The source of supply of water is at Shoal Creek, four miles from the city limits, a clear and rapid stream, which has its source in tlie Ozark range about seventy-five miles distant. It has a watershed of about an average width of twenty -five miles. The water is pumped to the reservoir at an altitude of 210 feet. The capacity of the reservoir is a million and a half gallons. From there it is distributed throughout the city by gravitation pressure for domestic and other ordinary uses, which averages about thirty pounds throughout the city. A fire pressure building and pumps are located between the city and the reservoir. There are something over thirteen miles of mains and they are so distributed as to accommodate nearly all the occupied portions of the city as well as all the railroads and all the important manufacturing districts. The city has sixty fire hydrants, at an annual rental for which it pays the water company $5,000. The consumption is about 200,000 gallons.

The completion of the water-works of this city marked the beginning of a most distinguished and prosperous era in her history. It was to her a new birth. From that time her own citizens have been steadily and rapidly building costly residences and business houses. New improvements of the most permanent kind have since been continually going on. It seems to be the one essential feature of permanency and constant growth which the city lacked and which, when obtained, was fully and thoroughly appreciated and understood by the people. Many branches of manufacture, whose operation would be dependent upon a supply of good water, have since sprung into existence. Nice blue-grass lawns now ornament most of the residences, which before were barren and unsightly. The fire service is very effective, steam being constantly kept up so that fire pressure can be given within two minutes after an alarm is turned on.

The people are very proud of their water-works, and justly so, as it has brought out a great deal of hitherto dormant capital, as well as furnished one of the necessaries of life at rates far below those ordinarily charged.

Within the first year after the works were in operation there were probably not less than a quarter of a million of dollars expended in buildings and factories.

JoPLiN Gas-works. - For several years after the first streets were staked out to mark the lines of the busy thoroughfares of the future city of Joplin the opinion was universally entertained by people from abroad, and largely by its own residents, that the town was simply a myth and those who were interested in starting it were but common adventurers. In the years 1875 and 1876 the successful miners, smelters, and business men determined toresent this sentiment and to demonstrate that Joplin, with her 12,000 busy people, possesed all the needed elements of permanency and substantial growth. And so they at once turned their attention to securing the building of public works as the best evidence of the falsity of the sentiment above referred to. First in importance among these public works they considered the construction of gas-works as tending more than any other one thing to giving their city a place among the municipalities of the state. Not without considerable difficulty did the leading citizens succeed in getting the builders of works of this kind to give their suggestions any attention. At length, in 1876, the senior member of the firm of Gray, Bowman & Company, of St. Louis, was induced to make a trip to Joplin. He found, to his surprise, a live, energetic, wide-awake, and prosperous, busy city of about twelve thousand souls. The leading citizens met him cordially and demonstrated to his full satisfaction that Joplin was sure to be a prosperous and important city for all time to come.

The city council invited him to meet with them in consultation in company with several of the leading citizens, the result of which was the draftting of a proposition for the construction of gas-works by C. E. Gray, Henry Flood, and A. B. Bowman, of St. Louis. The proposition was thoroughly canvassed, and on the nineteenth day of September, 1876, it was adopted by the city council and approved by the mayor, Hon. F. L. Thompson.

gaging him to come to Joplin and at once prepare plans, specifications, and estimates, and to select the site and commence the construction. While these preparations were being made the organization of the company was being effected and the contracts for material, etc., were being prepared. The certificate of corporate existence was issued by the Secretary of State Xovember 20, 1876, and the persons named were J. K. W. Polk, Horatio

Immediately upon the issue of the certificate the company was organized with Horatio D. Wood as president and A. B. Bowman secretary and treasurer, and the contract for the construction was let to Gray, Bowman & Company, and accordingly, on the twenty-fourth day of November, 1876, grounds for the works were broken. The work was vigorously pushed during the winter. The fires were placed in the benches on the fourth day of the following March, and on the twenty-fourth day of March gas was turned on and the town was lighted. The works were built in a very substantial manner and were entirely satisfactory to the company, the contractors, and the citizens generally. It is hardly probable that a six-inch gas works, with three benches, and twenty thousand cubic feet of holder capacity, and three miles of mains, with eighty-five meters set, were ever before completed in so short a space of time in the winter season.

The Joplin Herald, of March twenty-fifth, speaks of the enterprise as follows : "The gas works were completed a few days ago and the gas turned on last evening for the first time. Considering that it is the first production of the works, it burns exceedingly well. This is the grandest feather that has ever been stuck in Joplin's cap. The speedy manner in which the works have been pushed forward to completion merits for the company the thanks of the citizens of the city."

E. Kombaner, secretary and treasurer; C. J. Lewis, superintendent and engineer. The capital stock of the company is $30,000. The annual production of gas is about 5,000,000 feet. The company has always been fairly sustained by the people and very harmonious relations have always existed between them. The generous patronage of the people enabled the company on the first of January, 1883, to make the third reduction in the price of gas. Speaking of this announcement of a reduction one of the city papers remarks that " this reduction was doubtless brought about by the intercession of Mr. Lewis, who, while looking carefully after the interests of his company, also has at heart the prosperity and welfare of the city. It is certainly gratifying to know that the relations between the people of Joplin and this corporation are of such a pleasant nature.'' Another city paper remarked on the same subject: "A communication elsewhere from Capt. C. J. Lewis, superintendent of Joplin Gas Company, announces that the reduction will be made in the price to consumers of gas from January first. This will be agreeable news to the consumers and at the same time a compliment to their liberality, as by the general and increased consumption has the company been enabled to lower the rates. A still further increase of patrons will result in corresponding reduction." The Joplin Gas and Coke Company were the pioneer investors of foreign capital in a permanent enterprise in Joplin, and their harmonious relations with the people and the satisfactory remuneration for the investment are matters of congratulation and worthy of favorable comment.

Street Railway. - On November 15th, 1882, a charter was granted J. B. Sergeant and his assigns, with right of way over all the streets on condition tliat he should build, equip and have in operation within six months of date of charter, three-fourths of a mile of road and two miles within fifteen months. Furthermore the sum of one thousand dollars was to be expended on the enterprise within ninety days of granting of charter. Mr. Sergeant not only fulfilled but exceeded these stipulations, for one mile of the road was completed and in operation ninety days thereafter. He then transferred the road, charter, stock, and real estate to a corporation known as the Joplin Street R. R. Co., which was incorporated March 9, 1883, with a capital stock of $20,000, one-half paid up. Since the compan}' have built, equipped, and put in operation one and one-half miles additional, and have six cars running regularly. The road now extends from East Joplin to the Joplin Lead and Zinc- works, a distance of two and a half miles. It also connects all hotels with railroad depots. The company now have in process of erection two miles more of road, which will soon be completed, making an extensive sj'stem. The stables on Broadway, recently erected, are large and well arranged. Have eighteen span of horses and mules for use on road. The entire cost will be $20,000, stock all paid up. The stockholders are J. B. Sergeant, Clark Craycroft, and E. D. Elagg. Officers of company are: J. B. Sergeant, president; E. D. Flagg, vice-president; Clark Craycroft, secretary, treasurer, and superintendent.

Joplin Exposition. - This is one of the most worthy enterprises in the Southwest. The association was organized under charter, in July, 1879, with the following officers: President, S. C. Henderson; vice-president, JohnC. Guinn; secretary, T. A. McClelland; treasurer, P. Murphy; general superintendent, Isaac N. Lamb. The first annual fair commenced October 14, IS 79, and continued five days with marked success. Since the most sanguine expectations of those in charge have been realized. The grounds owned by the association consist of forty acres, beautifully located on an eminence about one and a half miles southwest of the City Hall, commanding a most excellent view of Joplin and surrounding country. The attractions of these have been yearly enhanced by splendid improvements. The numerous shade and ornamental trees planted add materially to the appearance as well as conduce to the comfort of the visitor. The immense reservoir of the Joplin Water-works is located near by, furnishing not only an attractive feature but an abundance of water. The main entrance is near the southwest corner of the grounds. Another is provided at the northwest corner. Almost centrally located is a spacious art and floral hall. This is admirably arranged; is in the shape of an irregular octagon; is two stories high, and is mounted with an observatory. Near the west side, and a little south of the center, is the grand stand and am])itheater. This is permanent, being substantially constructed, and is capable of seating nearly 3,000 persons. Between this and the hall above described is a half-mile track, which experienced horsemen pronounce one of the best in the United States. Close to the west track and opposite the ampitheater is the judges' stand, a good specitnen of architecture. Ample protection from the weather is furnished all kinds of machinery, agricultural implements, carriages, etc. Suitable stables, stalls, and pens have been built at no inconsiderable expense, for the accommodation of stock. The affairs of the association are in a very prosperous condition. Present oflicers are P. Murphy, president; W, H. Picher, vice-president; J. P. Newell, secretary; William M. Carter, treasurer; P. Murphy, W. H. Picher, William Carter, L. Kiseling, W. B. Halyard, J. P. Newell, W. Y. White, William Motherspaw, and G. T. Barbee, directors.

Telephone Exchange. - In the fall of 1881 Mr. C. W. McDaniel, of the Joplin Telephone Company, constructed, by right of franchise purchased, lines connecting Joplin with Carthage, Oronogo, Webb City, Carterville, Galena, and Empire Cit}-, Kansas. In October of that year these lines were put in operation. In an almost incredibly short time a sufficient number of persons agreed to take instruments to warrant the company in erecting wires and poles throughout the entire city. The fact that there are upwards of two hundred instruments in use on this line, certainly speaks well for the popularity and influence of the telephone, and particularly tiie liberality and enterprise of Joplin citizens. A telephone wire runs from the central oflice to the White Lead- works; another to the Zinc-works; one to the Granby Mining and Smelting Company's Works; also, one to the Southwest Lead and Zinc Company's Works. All the railroad offices, banks, hotels, the prin- cipal business houses and residences have their telephones. The lines from the first have been under the able supervision and management of Mr. Charles W, McDaniel.

JoPLiN Opera House - Was built in 1877 by A. J. Blackwell, at a cost of about ^15,000. On the lower floor were two large mercantile rooms one hundred feet long by twenty-four feet wide. Above these was the Opera Hall, having the length of rooms and being forty-eight feet wide. On the night of November 6, 1881, the building was almost entirely destroyed by tire. The Big Four Minstrel Company had given an entertainment that evening, and about 2 a. m. a fire broke out on the stage, probably from a lighted cigar, which had been careiessl}'' dropped. Almost immediatelv after the burning, Mrs. E. Blackwell contracted for the erection of the present hall. It is situated on the corner of Main and Second streets, the location of the first, and in fact was built on the same foundation. It is one hundred feet long by forty-eight feet wide, is well ventilated, and lighted by gas. There is a commodious stage, on either side of which are large dressing-rooms for ladies and gentlemen. The hall has a seating capacity of 600, and is provided with a front and back entrance. It was formally opened December 16, 1881, hardly a month having elapsed since the former was reduced to ashes. The first regular theatrical troupe which occupied the new hall was the Forham Dramatic Company, with May Wheeler as the star. The former hall was under the management of Mr. H. 11. Haven, the present lessee and manager. Mr. Haven is now the presiding officer of an organization composed of the managers of twelve first-class opera houses in southwest Missouri. The purpose of the association is mutual aid in securing first-class entertainments.

The Post-office.^ - The post-oflice established in this vicinity was known as Blytheville. It was at the residence of John C. Cox, Sr,, who was commissioned the first postmaster. This was years before Joplin was dreamed of, when the country was sparsely settled and mail facilities hardly worthy of mention. At the time of la3'ing out of Joplin by the above named gentleman in 1871, the office was moved to a store building, which had just been erected, and Frank Barnes was appointed deputy for Mr. Cox. In August of the same year, Murphysburg was laid out and an office established in the building now occupied by the Eagle Cornice Works, corner of Main and First streets. Mr. M. W. Stafibrd was appointed the first postmaster, receiving his commisssion in October following. In the fall a Mr. Scoville, of Scoville & Blackwell, merchants, took charge of the Blytheviile office. Shortly after, however, that office was discontinued and the entire community received their mail at the Murphysburg office. The distance between the two towns caused a considerable degree of dissatisfaction on the part of Joplin people. This was doubtless intensified by a growing jealousy between the rival towns. In the spring of 1872 application was made for the re-establishment of an office at Joplin, which was granted; J. C. Orner was commissioned postmaster. In September, 187P), the Mnrphysburg office was moved to the corner of Main and Second streets, opposite the present postoffice building, and about one year thereafter it was removed to the room now occupied by McCarthy Bros., druggists. In the fall of 187.5 the Joplin and Mnrphysburg offices were discontinued, and one central office established on the corner of Main and Second sti'eets, where it has since remained. Matt. W. Stafford was commissioned postmaster and has since retained the poBition, rendering eminent satisfaction. Money order office had been established in 1872. From the beginning, the business has increased immensely. In 1872 the office paid the postmaster, by commissions, about ^400; in 1875 the office paid $1,100; one year later it was made a salaried office, with a fixed salary of $1,400; in 1877 the salary was increased to $2,100, with a additional $600 for clerk hire. In 1878 it was cut down to $1,800, with $540 for the payment of necessary help. The present officers are M. W. Stafford, postmaster; W. W. Thatcher, assistant; Burt Minor, mailing clerk; Miss S. A. "Workize, delivery clerk.

Money order division, cash on hand January first, $351.93; domestic orders issued, $44,651.15; fees on same, $451.18; British orders issued, $951.11; fees on same, $31.25; German orders issued, $594.27; fees on same, $13.15; total, $47,044.04. Disbursments, domestic orders paid, $29,821.86; domestic orders repaid $480.22; foreign orders paid, $71.80; deposited at St. Louis, $16,088.19; balance cash on hand, $581.96; total, $41,044.04. Money orders are drawn at this office on Great Britain, Canada, France, and Algeria, the German Empire, Sweden, Denmark, the Netherlands and Luxemburg, Jamaica, iSTew South Wales, Victoria, New Zealand, and all the principal towns in the United States.

The Southwest Medical and Surgical Institute. - This institution, although newly organized under the present name this spring, has been in ex- istence for five years. It is the direct ontgrowtli of the business established by Dr. J. C. PeTit in this city in 1878. For the past two years it has been allowed to slumber, owing to Dr. PeTit's connection with the Joplin College of Physicians and Surgeons. But at the close of the session of 1882-83 he relinquished his part in the management of the college and turned his attention wholly to the building up and managing of this institution. In a country where hospitals, founded upon public charity or individual beneficence are unknown, such institutions as this become a necessity. It is impossible^for general practitioners to have all the appliances and apparatus necessary for the treatment of many diseases to which the people are prone; and^in this day of advanced and specialized medical knowledge no one physician can have the knowledge necessary to successfully and scientifically treat all the cases which come under his observation. But in an institution fitted and appointed for the treatment of chronic and surgical disease these appliances are easily procured and kept always ready, because their frequent use pays the interest on the money invested in them; and that knowledge which our physicians lack is supplied by some other physician connected with the institute. The difficulties which obstruct the successful treatment of most chronic diseases, especially those of a surgical nature, in the homes of the patients, are removed in an institution specially arranaged for their treatment. Thus these institutions become a boon to the people, presenting them with opportunities of relief from sufl:ering, which can be procured in no other manner.

Upon this general plan the Southwest Medical and Surgical Institute has been organized, and no institution in the country is better appointed or more thoroughly fitted up than it is. It is owned and managed by J. C. PeTit, M. D., and the various departments are under the charge of accomplished physicians and surgeons. The buildings, which have been enlarged and improved, present a frontage on Broadway of one hundred and twenty-five feet and have a depth of seventy -five feet. The western end of the building is occupied by a natatorium and Turkish bath. All the advantages and benefits of bathing are here afforded to the inmates of the institute. The natatorium occupies a basin 14x35 feet and from four to ten feet in depth, a current of fresh water from a fountain being kept constantly running through it. An electro-magnetic battery is placed in connection with the basin, so that a gentle current of electricity can be carried through the water, imparting a sense of refreshment and vigor to the bathers which water alone cannot give. To prevent accidents, an attendant is always in waiting. Immediately back of the natatorium and leading out from it, is the Turkish bath. Here patients are subjected to the well-known curative

' Just east of the natatorium is Dr. PeTit]s private office, fitted up and furnished in magnificent style, and connecting with examining rooms, electric bath-rooms, and the dispensary where all the medicines used in the institute are compounded. Above these rooms are the apartments of the attendants, janitor, etc. Still further east is the general lounging and reading-room, furnished with fireplace and reading tables, and leading out of it the dining-room. These rooms are spacious and well lighted, and communicate directly with the other parts of the building. Xorth of the dining-room are Dr. PeTit's family apartments. The eastern end of the building is de- voted to the hospital department. Here are the surgeon's office, general reception room, and room for the patients. Each ])atient is assigned a room, which is well lighted and ventilated. The building throughout is furnished with gas and water. In the yard are situated the laundry, coalhouse, water-closets, etc. In order to secure a perfect adaptation of apparatus to those cases requiring such treatment, arrangements have been made with Dr. Geo. A. Stephenson, by which he has opened an office on the grounds of the institute for the manufacture of all varieties of surgical apparatus and appliances. Dr. Stephenson has a national reputation as an orthopedist, having been engaged in the manufacture of surgical apparatus and artifical limbs in nine ditFerent states, extending from New York to California. His office is so located on the grounds as to be remote from the patients' rooms, so that, while it is alwa^'s accessible for consultation with the doctor, all the noise incident to the manufacture of such apparatus is kept from annoying the patients.

No institute in the West is so thoroughly fitted up and perfectly adapted to the care and treatment of the affiicted as is this one, and Jasper county may well be proud of its existence within her border. Its success is already established, and its continual growth is a surety. The thrift and enterprise manifested by its founder and proprietor will not fail to carry it through whatever opposition may be brought to bear upon it.

Introduclioii - Slatisficf^ of the City of Jopliii - Fermanent Improvements of the Year - Railroads - Lone Elm Mining and Smelting Compang's fVorks - Smelting Department- White Lead Department - Joplin Zinc Worl's - Soiithivest Lead and Zinc Company's Worls - Granhg ]Vorl-s - Joplin Mills - Joplin IVoolen Mills - Eagle Cornice Works - Banks - Hotels - Harmaiig' s Foundry - Machine Works - Wagon and Carriage Works - Paint and Oil Works - Boiler Works - Loan and Building Association - Lirerg Stables - Henshaw Carriage Repository - Cigar Manufactory - Brick Yards - Brewery - Floral and Vegetahle Gardens.

From the time that Joplin was founded nature and circumstances seem to have united to confer favors upon her. In the first place, those who founded the cit}' were wise, far-seeing men. Again, their efforts were seconded bv all the advantages that boundless mineral resources could afford. People of energy and intelligence flocked in from all quarters as soon as the mines were opened. Hail roads were built. Other necessary enterprises were carried to a successful completion, and in less than a decade of years Joplin became a truly great financial, business, and intellectual center. Her commercial relations are world-wide; her business flattering; her people wide-awake; her possibilities almost infinite. There are eight church ediflces and ten congregations.

Personal and real propertj' at last assessment was valued at $850,000, but ill reality is worth at commercial estimates nearlj^ $2,000,000. School buildings are worth $20,000. There are 2,500 school children, between six and twenty-one years of age. Now (in the year 18S3) the city is growing with greater rapidity than ever before, and indications are that the permanent improvements made and the business done will be far in excess of the vast and almost incredible amount done last 3^ear.

The following statistics of the city of Joplin were prepared in May, 1883, showing the extent of some of her various business interests, population, value of assessable property, etc.:

In regard to the permanent improvements made in 1882, the following figures are considered by those who gathered them, and the citizens generally-^ as very much underestimated. Money spent by the citizens of Joplin for the erection of new buildings and general improvements in 1882: Sergeant's Mills, $76,000; Missouri Pacific depot, round-house, tracks, etc.i within the city limits, $35,000; Henderson block, $7,000; Joplin Brewery, §6,500; Masonic Hall building, $4,000; Shepherd's block, $4,000; Perkins' block, $8,000; Halyard's block, $4,000; McClelland & Barbee, $8,000; Geldmacher building, $5,000; City Hall, $3,500; Lane & Byers' block, $9,000; Swartz & Malsbury block, $9,000; Schiffendecker residence and brewery, $10,000; residence of Mr. E. J. Zelliken, $16,000; M. E. Church, $10,- 000; Woolen Mills, $30,000; Zinc-works, $75,000; residence, Judge Barns, $5,000; residence, E. B. Leonard, $3,000; McGill, Fox & Co., lumber yard, $10,000; oiher residences, etc., $20,000; streets macadamized, five miles, $5,000; miscellaneous, $10,000; grand total, $373,000. In this section there was mined by all companies in 1881, 43,000,000 pounds of lead ore, which yielded about 15,000 tons of pig lead, known in tlie metal market as " Soft Missouri Lead." Daring the year 1882 a very much greater amount was rained. Exact figures are wanting. It is estimated, however, that the production of zinc ore averaged 1,500 tons per week, or 15,600,000 pounds for the year. The production of lead was almost incredible. The Lone Elm Mining and Smelting Company alone smelted 20,445,177 pounds of lead ore, yielding about 15,678,750 pounds of pure pig lead. From the fumes or smoke produced in smelting, by application of the " Barrett Process,'' 3,775,00C pounds of white lead were made. During the year this company shipped 565 cars of pig lead, and 161 cars of white lead, to the different markets. The Joplin Zinc Company, the Southwest Lead and Zinc Company, and the Granby Mining and Smelting Company, gave to the market a proportional amount. The wholesale mercantile business was equally good. All other branches of trade shared in the general prosperity.

Railroads. - Joplin has been greatly assisted in her growth and prosperity by her numerous railroads. For several years after the founding of the city, facilities for the handling of mineral, etc., and the reception of goods, were almost entirely wanting. In those days teaming furnished employment for a great number of men, whose routes lay between this place and the different railroad points surrounding. This method of transfer was not only expensive, but entirely too slow for convenience. The rapid growth of the town, and the vastly increasing business demanded that something be done to facilitate matters of transportation. Several unsuccessful attempts were made to secure a railroad. These failures were due doubtless to the fact that Joplin was then considered a mere mining camp, and it was thought that it w^ould flourish for a season, or as long as the exhaustible supply of lead held out, and then go down. Such, however, was not the case. Destiny had marked the spot as the site of a future great city, and all that was necessary was the proper facilities for introducing machinery from abroad, and bearing off the wealth of lead, zinc, etc. It seems that sufficient inducements were not afforded to attract capital and assistance from abroad. Fortunately, however, Joplin had among her numerous citizens men who possessed the requisite capital, energy, and genuine grit to inaugurate such an enterprise and carrj^ it to a successful completion,

Girard Branch - St. Louis di San Francisco Railroad. - In the winter of 1875-76 the Joplin Railroad Company was organized with the following stockholders: J. B. Sergeant. E. R. Moff'et, P. Murphy, W. P. Davis, E. H. Brown, W. A. Botkin, and Colonel Budlong. The first officers were: Colonel Budlong, president; E, R, Moffet, vice-president; W. A. Botkin, secretary; and J. B. Sergeant, treasurer. The line was to extend from

City Of Joplin. ' 465

Jopliii to Girard, Kansas, a point on the Gulf llailroad, and a distance of thirty-nine miles. Surveying was commenced in February, 1876. Shortly after Messrs. Moffet and Sergeant purchased the entire interest, and continued the work until the road was completed to Joplin. The last spike, a leaden one, was driven at twelve o'clock m. on Sunday, Agust 20, 1877. They erected a large brick depot just west of the Lone Elm Mining and Smelting Company's works. In May, 1879, Messrs. Moffet and Sergeant sold the road to the present St. Louis & San Francisco Company, and it has since been known as the Girard branch.

Tlie St. Louis dt San FrancisGO Bcdlroad. - This deservedly popular line of railway owns and controls 891 miles of road, passing through the richest country in the Southwest. The main line extends from St. Louis into the Indian Territory, a distance of 427 miles. On July ^4th, 1871, the Memphis, Carthage & Northwestern Kailway Company was organized with headquarters at Carthage. L. P. Cunningham, of this city, was president, and under his administration the first section of the road was built from Peirce City to Brownsville, Kansas. In 1874 the line was purchased by the Atlantic & Pacific Company, subsequently the Missouri & Western Railway Company controlled it, and still later the St. Louis & San Francisco Company added it to their extensive system. The branch running from Oronogo to Joplin was built in 1880, and in the fall of that year it was continued to Galena, Kansas. The company have erected at the east end of Sixth Street, and at a convenient distance from the various hotels of the city, a large depot which is a credit to the corporation and a valuable addition to the city. There is also a round-house containing four stalls, stock-yards, etc. The office here is under the able management of Mr. J. L. Briggs,, assisted by Mr. I^. A. Kinney, as operator.

Kansas Cittj, Fort Scott db Gulf Railroad. - The above popular line of railway controls nearly 700 miles of road in the Southwest. The main line extends from Kansas City via Fort Scott and Memphis, Tennessee, a distance of 500 miles. The accommodations are strictly first class in every respect, palace, sleeping, dining, and reclining chair cars accompanying trains on the main line and principal branches. In the fall of 1879 a company known as the Joplin & Short Creek Kailroad Company extended the road froni.Baxter Springs to this city. It has since been completed to Webb City, the present terminus. During construction it became the property of the Kansas City, Fort Scott & Gulf Company. The first regular train ran into Joplin iu October, 1879. The company have here an excellent depot, round-house, stock-yards, etc., and their line, because of accommodation and quickness of time made, is becoming quite popular with the trav-

The Missouri Pacife Bailway. - Under tlie contract of this popular line of railway universally known as the "Grould Southwestern System," are about 13,000 miles of road in operation. This includes the main line which runs from St. Louis to Kansas City and Kansas City to Omaha, and the different branches and leased roads. Palace, sleeping, dining, and reclininochair cars are run regularly on the main line and the principal branches. In fact these roads, like all those under the control of the great railway magnate, Jay Gould, are first-class in all their appointments. This system has the reputation of running the finest trains which enter the city of St. Louis. The branch which extends to, and terminates at, Joplin, was first started under charter by a company under the superintendency of Hon. E. H. Brown, of Rich Hill, this state. It was to extend from Pleasant Hill to Joplin, a distance of 139 miles. Shortly after work had been commenced the line was purchased by Mr. Gould, who immediately completed it to Carthage, this county, the first train being run into that city in the fall of 18S1. In the spring of 1882 the road was extended to Joplin, thus completing the line. Trains commenced running regularly to this city on June 19, 1882. The company have erected here one of the finest depots in the Southwest. It is a magnificent frame structure one hundred and ten feet long by twenty- six wide, and contains a ladies' waiting-room, office, gents' -waiting-room, baggage, and freight rooms. There is also a round-house, stockyards, etc. The company's local office here is under the efficient management of Mr. A. O. T. Pennington, with G. T. Farnham, as operator.

Lone Elm Mining and Smelting Company's Works. - With the history of these mammoth works the writer will attempt a pen picture of the same, which though very imperfect at best, will possibly enable the reader to more nearly comprehend their magnitude and the wonderful processes cnvolved. To say that they are the most extensive of their kind is but a proper acknowledgment. They are located within the corporate limits of Joplin about one mile north of west of city hall. For convenience and for the purpose of simplifying as much as possible the smelting department will be first considered, and afterward the process of manufacturing white lead.

Smelting Dej^rtment. - The smelting-house is one hundred and twenty feet long, seventy-five feet wide, and forty-five feet high. On each side of this building there are seven bins for unsmelted. mineral. The latter is graded previous to shipment from the mines; the finer is unloaded from the cars direct into the bins; the coarser is run through crushers, one on each side, for the purpose of receiving it. Each crusher is worked by a tifteen -horse- power eno-ine, the steam beinoj brought by pipes from the boiler-room three hundred feet distant. In the center of the smeltino^ room is an immense brick flue eighty feet long, ten feet wide, and twenty furnaces. These are about three feet long, two feet wide, and thirteen inches deep, and are supplied with aprons four feet long and two feet wide, which fall from the eye producing an inclined plane. Directly in front and beneath each apron is a kettle with a capacity for about 1,000 pounds of melted lead. They have a track running on both sides of this system of furnaces to convey ore and charcoal to the smelters, and carry oif the lead after it is run into pigs. In the excavations, and opposite the Scotch eyes, are arranged bins which contain alternately charcoal, mineral, and lime. A blast is supplied the furnaces by a huge blower and is conducted from that apparatus situated near the engine room to the eyes, by means of a subterranean pipe. This blast or current of air can be intensified or diminished as desired. Two men are constantly employed at each Scotch eye, and as there are three shifts, or changes of men, during the twenty-four hours, it requires ninety-six men for these alone. Besides there are men engaged in carrying materials to and bearing off the metal product. A mixture of charcoal and mineral is shoveled into the Scotch eyes; it is stirred and more mineral thrown on, a quantity of lime is also added for the purpose of liuxing or causing the slag to separate from the lead. The intense heat melts the ore, and after the eyes become full the liquid runs down a depression in the apron into kettles above described. It isthen ladled into moulds and afterward taken to the refining-room. The capacity of each eye is 6,000 pounds of lead per day. The refining room is situated east and to the right of the one above given. It is sixty feet long by thirty wide, and contains two sets of refining kettles, each having a capacity for 15,000 pounds of lead. The pigs, in their impure state, are thrown into either of the two upper kettles and re-melted. A block of wood inserted in the liquid keeps it in a constant state of agitation. The dross being lighter rises and is taken off. The nearly pure article passesinto the second kettle and undergoes a similar process. After this it runs into the moulder, from which it is taken ready for market. The pigs thus prepared usually weigh eighty-five pounds, sometimes a fi-action more or less. The exact weight is taken, and it is then loaded on the cars which run alongside the building. It is now in place to introduce the