Montgomery County Archives – Page 5 of 5

Building the Montgomery County High School

1913 Montgomery County High School postcard

In early 1897, a bill to establish a county high school in Independence, Montgomery County, was introduced in the Kansas legislature and quickly received overwhelming public support. After passing both the Senate and House with minimal opposition, it became law on March 12. However, opposition emerged from certain county areas, leading to protests against the school. Despite divided trustee appointments, the board organized and accepted land for the school. They voted on a tax levy for construction, which led to the selection of an architect and subsequent bids for building the school, culminating in a total contract of $23,077.

Why Did Pomeroy Trust York?

1890 J. B. Lippincott Company Map - Montgomery County

The narrative reflects on the curious interconnections of events during Montgomery County’s early history, emphasizing that truth can often be more remarkable than fiction. It recounts key incidents, including the infamous Bender tragedy and the political scandal involving Senator A. M. York and Senator S. C. Pomeroy. Senator York’s efforts to relocate a land office to Independence reveal a complex web of political maneuvering and moral complexities. The account underscores how seemingly unrelated events intertwine, highlighting York’s integrity during the Civil War and his pivotal role in exposing corruption that led to significant historical implications.

The Reed Family Tragedy

The suffocation of the George W. Reed family at Independence, Montgomery County, on the night of December 31, 1893, remains one of the county’s most profound tragedies. Initially shrouded in mystery, the incident involved the sudden deaths of Mr. Reed, manager of the Long-Bell Lumber Company; his five-year-old son Allen; and a household employee, Eda Scott, due to carbon monoxide poisoning caused by a blocked chimney. Mrs. Reed survived, though severely affected.

The Volcanic Upheaval of 1894 at Coffeyville

In July 1894, a significant geological event occurred in Coffeyville, Kansas, where a volcanic eruption created a crater and displaced large quantities of earth and stone. Witnesses described it as comparable to a volcano, with debris cast up to 400 feet high. The explosion transformed a peaceful prairie into a scene resembling the stony landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. Investigations suggested that nearby gas wells might have leaked gas, creating immense pressure leading to the explosion. Despite various hypotheses, the specific cause remains unclear, with experts speculating about potential connections to underlying seismic activity.

The Elk Valley Flood of 1885

In May 1885, Montgomery County experienced a devastating flood following a storm that damaged the Elk and Verdigris valleys. The flood was so severe that it disrupted railroad services and prompted emergency rescue operations. Boats were dispatched to save residents trapped in inundated homes, but tragic accidents occurred, leading to the drowning of a young man and a doctor who endeavored to assist others. Along with crop destruction, the storm’s aftermath included significant property damage across the county. In neighboring Chautauqua County, the storm resulted in greater loss of life and harrowing rescue efforts as residents sought safety from the rising waters.

The Drum Creek Treaty

On May 27, 1868, the Drum Creek treaty, negotiated by Wm. Sturgis, authorized the sale of 8,003,000 acres of Osage land to a railroad company for $1,600,000. The treaty faced strong opposition from settlers and Congressman Sidney Clarke, leading to its withdrawal in 1869, ultimately opening the land for settlement.

Organization of Montgomery County

Montgomery County, initially part of Wilson County, was established in 1867 and organized in 1869, despite much of its land still being under Native American jurisdiction. Its borders were defined by the legislature, although inaccuracies in land surveys persist. The county’s diverse geography includes the Verdigris River and various creeks, while its rich agricultural potential is complemented by natural gas and oil deposits. The historical narrative involves complex interactions between settlers and Native Americans, particularly regarding land treaties that shaped ownership. Despite early land disputes, settlers eventually secured clear title through government transactions, resulting in a stable landholding environment.

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