Montgomery County Archives – Page 3 of 5

Biography of John Newton

1890 J. B. Lippincott Company Map - Montgomery County

John Newton, a resident of Sycamore Township since 1884, was born in Harrison County, Ohio, on March 14, 1842. He spent his early years in Tuscarawas County before moving to Montgomery County, Kansas, following his service in the 11th Ohio National Guard during the Civil War. A dedicated farmer and community member, Newton served on the school board and as a road overseer, and maintained lifelong affiliation with the Republican Party and the Grand Army of the Republic. He was the son of Isaac and Rachel Newton and part of a large extended family rooted in Ohio. Newton married Mary E. Balitt in 1869, and together they raised a family of six children, with descendants continuing to reside in or near Montgomery County.

Biography of George B. Smith

George B. Smith, born in South Carolina in 1845, became a farmer in Montgomery County, Kansas after moving there in 1896. He served in the Civil War, enduring captivity at Andersonville before rejoining his regiment for key battles. After the war, he farmed in Indiana and Kansas, contributing to his community as a school board member and active church participant. Married in 1878, he has four children and is well-respected in Montgomery County, where he plans to spend the rest of his life.

Biography of William Cahoon Baylies

William Cahoon Baylies, was a pioneering settler in Montgomery County from 1869, who significantly contributed to the region’s development. Born in Louisiana in 1843, he grew up in Illinois and Iowa before serving as a First Lieutenant in the Civil War. After attempting gold mining in Montana, he settled in Kansas in 1869, marrying Rachel M. Baylies. Their home on Table Mound was notable for its breathtaking views and rich history. Known for his integrity and hospitality, Baylies earned respect as a community leader and family man.

Biography of Horace H. Crane

Horace H. Crane, born in 1836 in Ohio, became a notable pioneer after settling in Montgomery County, Kansas, in 1868. He secured land from the Osage chief, Nopawalla, fostering a community for families. A Civil War veteran, Crane served in the 3rd Wisconsin Cavalry before returning to farming and mineral exploration. He married Elizabeth High, with whom he had four children. Active in local education and community affairs, he is a member of several fraternal organizations, reflecting his commitment to both social values and community well-being.

Biography of Ebenezer Erskine Wilson

Ebenezer Erskine Wilson, born November 21, 1838, in Pennsylvania, was a key figure in the establishment of Independence, Kansas, where he became the first merchant and a respected civic leader. He served valiantly in the Civil War, rising to the rank of Captain. Wilson’s influence extended to serving as mayor and county treasurer and holding the postmaster position until his death on August 28, 1894. He married twice, and his legacy continued through his children, particularly Albert E. Wilson, who followed in his civic footsteps.

Early History of Cherryvale

Cherryvale, located in northeastern Kansas, experienced three major growth periods: early settlement, the arrival of railroads, and the discovery of gas and oil. The first white settler was Ab Eaton, followed by a series of early businesses, including the Union Hotel and local stores. The railroads expanded in 1879, boosting population and commerce, while gas was first discovered in 1889, leading to further industrial development. Throughout its history, Cherryvale established schools, churches, banks, and parks, forming a vibrant community that continually progressed.

Early History of Elk City

Elk City, located at Duck Creek’s mouth in Southeastern Kansas, emerged during the late 1860s amidst the founding of nearby towns. Initially facing competition from Bloomfield, Elk City thrived due to its natural advantages, including ample water resources. A pivotal moment came in 1871 with the establishment of its municipal government. Though a proposed railroad connection was narrowly defeated in 1876, Elk City later secured rail access, leading to growth in commerce and agriculture. At the turn of the 20th Century, it boasted strong community resources, a growing population, and a promising future.

Early History of Caney

Caney, located in Montgomery County, Kansas, was established in late 1869 by early settlers, including Jasper N. West, the town’s first postmaster. Built on a sandy knoll, it overlooks rich valleys and streams, attracting diverse communities, including Cherokee and Osage Indians. By May 1870, Caney was surveyed and platted, leading to rapid growth and the establishment of businesses. The arrival of railroads in the late 1880s marked significant development, while the discovery of natural gas and oil in the early 1900s further enhanced its prosperity. At the turn of the 20th Century, Caney boasted a vibrant community, public services, and a hopeful future.

Early History of Liberty

Liberty, initially located on a bluff in Verdigris valley, played a significant role in the county’s early politics, competing with Independence for the county seat. Established after the 1869 proclamation by Gov. Harvey, Liberty briefly served as the seat of government before Independence won the election in 1870. Following the arrival of a colony of African American settlers, Liberty began cotton farming under founder Daniel McTaggart’s guidance. Eventually, the village moved to its current site, enjoying a prosperous trade and exploring oil prospects.

Town Building in the South-East Corner of Montgomery County

This source describes the early efforts to establish towns in the southeastern corner of Montgomery County, Kansas, near the Verdigris River. Driven by the belief that this location was ideal for trade, numerous settlements like Claymore, Westralia, and Tally Springs were quickly projected, but competition and lack of unity among developers hindered their growth. The text also highlights significant early historical events within this region, including the first documented settler, early instances of community organization like schools and churches, a murder and subsequent vigilante justice, and the controversial bonding of the county to attract a railroad. Ultimately, many of these early towns failed, paving the way for the eventual prominence of present-day Coffeyville.

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