Montgomery County Archives – Page 4 of 5

Early History of Parker

1890 J. B. Lippincott Company Map - Montgomery County

This historical account details the rapid establishment and early social dynamics of Parker, Kansas, founded in 1869 by James W. Parker for both personal health and business opportunities. Despite its initial sparse settlement, Parker quickly transformed into a thriving commercial center, attracting settlers and businesses due to the founder’s reputation and a large initial investment in a general store. The narrative also explores the community’s character, highlighting a focus on order and cooperation rather than typical “wild west” lawlessness, even amidst conflicts and a fierce rivalry with the nearby town of Coffeyville.

Early History of Coffeyville

Evert's 1887 Map of Independence, Havana, and Coffeyville, Kansas

The development of Coffeyville, Kansas, began in 1871 when officials of the Leavenworth, Lawrence & Galveston Railroad established a new town site north of the original settlement, within the Osage Diminished Reserve. Platted by railroad engineer Octavius Chanute as the “Railroad Addition to the City of Coffeyville,” this area was incorporated as a city of the third class in 1872, sparking a rivalry with the older town situated on the Cherokee Strip. Legal and political conflicts followed, culminating in a court-ordered unification of the two settlements in 1873. Coffeyville’s subsequent history reflects its steady growth as a commercial, transportation, and manufacturing center, driven by the discovery of natural gas, the expansion of railroad connections, and the development of municipal infrastructure. Despite early challenges and competition from neighboring towns, Coffeyville evolved into a significant hub in southern Kansas by the early twentieth century.

Lost Towns of Montgomery County

This article recounts the history of several early settlements in Montgomery County, Kansas, that were founded with high hopes but ultimately failed to thrive. These towns—Verdigris City, Montgomery City, Liberty (in its original location), Colfax, Samaria, Morgantown, and Radical City—played brief roles in the county’s early development, often as contenders for the county seat or commercial centers. Factors such as shifting transportation routes, court decisions, and consolidation of political support led to their decline and eventual abandonment. The sites they once occupied are now absorbed into the surrounding landscape, remembered only through historical accounts and place names.

Villages and Post Offices of Montgomery County

The villages and post offices of Montgomery County, Kansas, reflect the region’s development alongside expanding railroad lines and local enterprise during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Towns such as Tyro, Jefferson, Bolton, Sycamore, Wayside, Dearing, Crane, and Havana each played a role in the county’s economic and social life, serving as local trade centers, shipping points, and community hubs. Their origins often stemmed from railroad expansion or strategic settlement decisions, and their growth was supported by a combination of commercial establishments, religious organizations, and civic contributions. This article outlines the founding, infrastructure, and community features of these settlements, providing a snapshot of rural life and development in Montgomery County during the late 19th Century.

Early History of Independence Kansas

Independence, Kansas, strategically located near the Verdigris River and built on solid limestone bluffs, was founded in August 1869 by settlers intent on making it the county seat. Its growth accelerated through early settlers, businesses, and transportation, despite setbacks like legal disputes over the county seat. Key milestones include the establishment of schools, churches, and a thriving newspaper, “Independence Pioneer.” The city faced fires and economic challenges but saw renewed growth in the early 1900s with manufacturing and infrastructure development, leading to a population increase and establishing Independence as an essential regional hub.

The Political History of Montgomery County

This extended text chronicles the intricate and often turbulent political history of Montgomery County, Kansas, from its organization in 1869 through the turn of the 20th century. It highlights the early conflicts over county seat location, the emergence of prominent political figures, and the frequent shifts in power between the Republican party and various opposition movements, including Democrats, Greenbackers, Populists, and fusion tickets. The narrative details numerous elections, contentious political battles, and the impact of state and national issues on local politics, also noting the financial sacrifices made by many involved in public service.

Early Gas and Oil Development in Montgomery County

Until the late 1880s, no one in Montgomery County suspected the presence of substantial natural gas reserves. Early settlers noted some oil indications, leading to initial explorations and discoveries of gas and oil in various wells. By 1890, Cherryvale had significant gas production, followed by Coffeyville and Independence. The Independence Gas Company emerged, connecting many homes to gas supplies. While oil exploration began, fluctuating yields delayed market development. Legal disputes over leases arose as interest grew, and gas supplies proved abundant, fostering local population growth and industrial investment despite concerns about resource depletion.

The Early Press of Montgomery County

War Day Memories mast, September 1911, vol 1, num 2

The newspaper industry in Montgomery County has captivated many aspiring editors, with seventy local publications emerging since its inception in 1869. Only one, the South Kansas Tribune, has achieved lasting financial success under consistent management, owing largely to public support. Established in 1871, the Tribune has maintained a Republican stance, benefiting from county printing contracts. Other notable figures include H. W. Young, who has dedicated nineteen years to various papers, and T. N. Sickels, who has successfully operated the Daily Reporter since 1885. Despite its youth, Montgomery County has seen numerous newspaper failures, leading to a fragmented but rich journalistic landscape.

Montgomery County Historical Newspapers Online

Online newspaper archives for Montgomery County include extensive coverage from the mid-1880s to 1930, yet fewer resources are available for later years due to copyright restrictions. Many are behind paywalls, but free access is possible through specific links provided by the Kansas Digital Newspapers Program.

The 1892 Dalton Raid at Coffeyville

C. M. Condon and Company Bank, Coffeyville, Kansas, 1892

On October 5, 1892, the Dalton Gang attempted a dramatic bank raid in Coffeyville, resulting in a fierce shootout that left four gang members dead within minutes. Led by brothers Gratton, Emmet, and Robert Dalton, with two accomplices, they entered two banks, taking around $20,000. However, citizens quickly armed themselves to fight back. Within a short time, the gang was ambushed, leading to numerous casualties, including innocent bystanders. The confrontation ultimately demonstrated the dangers of such criminal endeavors, as the townsfolk decisively ended the gang’s reign of terror.

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