90 Years Ago

The Stockton Chamber of Commerce had an interesting meeting at the courthouse with subjects discussed being highways, dedication of courthouse and school building.

Chas. E. Bartlett died at Columbus, Kansas on March 9th of double pneumonia. The deceased was a brother of Morris Bartlett of Ash Rock Township and a cousin of the Coolbaugh brothers of Stockton.

The Capper Poultry Club of Rooks County won the splendid cup now on exhibition in the window of the Stockton National Bank. This was accomplished by points won in the greatest number of poultry hints and helps given through articles published in the county paper.

Claimants for the distinction of being the first woman justice of the peace elected in Kansas are appearing. Miss Clara Arnold of Nickerson elected in 1921 had her laurels swept away by Mrs. Albert M. Hance of Glade, (nee Jessie Muir) who was first elected justice in 1920 and again in 1922.

The Chamber of Commerce met in the courthouse, using the assembly room on the first floor with over 50 present and a number of important matters were considered. The membership committee reported 117 in good standing, most of whom had paid dues of $5.00 each.

About 4:00 o’clock on Sunday morning fire was discovered in the north end of one of the business blocks of Palco. When discovered, the fire had gained such a headway that it could not be controlled. Seven business buildings, all on the east side of the street, were consumed.

The Civic League put on a mirth-provoking entertainment at the school auditorium on Saturday last. It was a slow train, but fast fun and was certainly a scream from start to finish, and there was a vast crowd there to hear it with every seat and some extra chairs being filled.

James Bird Low was born on March 8th, 1861 and departed this life on January 26th, 1923. On January 20 he was feeling in excellent spirits and health and going about his work as usual.

Shortly before noon on Sunday, Mrs. Simpson, living next door, discovered smoke issuing from the roof of the E. F. Vallette residence. The alarm was given and the fire whistle blew at five minutes to 12:00.

Fred Westhusin went out to get his car ready to take his mother to town earlier in the week and as he did not return for some time, she went out to see what was wrong. She found him hanging between the bows of the top of the car, which was a touring car.