These news items were extracted from upper Ouachita River valley newspapers from many years ago. The articles illustrate the variety of news published by area papers and offer a glimpse into life of by-gone days. Agriculture remained important, transformations in transportation occurred, and technology brought many changes into the everyday lives of residents. As always, politics, economic developments, and disasters made headlines as well.

Stories appear in chronological order, oldest to more recent. To search, use Control F, and enter your search term. This page will always be a work-in-progress, with more articles added from time to time.

1869

February 13, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

During the peak of business season, Arkadelphia has been the best market in the State, both for the sale of cotton and the purchase of supplies, the distances from the leading markets, and the facilities of transportation considered. Our merchants, with a liberality rarely equaled, have been paying prices for cotton that that but for the advances on some of their purchases would not have paid them out in New Orleans, and at the same time they have been selling supplies at advances on New Orleans prices that barely covered expenses. Indeed, it has looked as if they were doing business “just for the fun of the thing.” But the truth of the matter is, they have discovered the true “philosopher’s stone” of business—“the nimble penny is better than the tardy shilling,” or in other words, “short profits and quick sales,” are the secret of mercantile success. The unprecedentedly heavy business that this policy has secured them the present season, will cause them to continue it in the future, and if possible, improve on it. Arrangements will be made by which the facilities will be greatly increased for doing business another season, so that Arkadelphia will compete in all respects with her more pretentious sister cities. Our merchants are fully aroused to the importance of securing all the trade that legitimately belongs to this place, and they will use all honorable means to do so; and as this is the natural market for all of Clark, Pike, Polk, Montgomery, Sevier, and parts of Hot Spring and Dallas counties, we look for a business at this place next season that will astonish the most sanguine.

A great drawback to the business of this place is the almost impassible condition of some of the creeks and bottoms in consequence of there being no bridges and causeways. This should be attended to. If there is not enough money in the Treasury after the taxes are collected to do it, then let a special tax be levied for the purpose. It would not only be a great convenience to the people of the county, but a matter of economy also, for what they pay in taxes would be more than reimbursed to them in improved facilities for getting their products to market. This would be a mutual benefit to Arkadelphia and the people of the county generally. Let it be done then, despite the carpings of the “penny wise and pound foolish,” who, rather than pay a farthing of taxes, would see the streets of our city grow up in weeds and grass, and the entire county degenerate into a “waste, howling wilderness.”

February 20, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We are requested to announce that there will be a meeting next Saturday morning, (Feb. 20^th) at the Court House, for the purpose of taking steps towards the improvement of the roads leading to Arkadelphia; also, the establishment of telegraphic communication with other points, and making such arrangements as will perfect our steamboat facilities. The citizens not only of Clark, but of surrounding counties, and the planters especially, are invited to attend.

February 27, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The fair and supper on Tuesday night last, given by the ladies of the Presbyterian Church for the benefit of their church, was a perfect success in every particular. There was quite a display of fancy articles, some of them most exquisitely wrought, the handiwork of the ladies of the Arkadelphia Sewing Circle. The supper was ample and well prepared, consisting of all the delicacies to be procured in the market. The whole affair went off with pleasure to all concerned, and considerable benefit to the Church. We understand the receipts were something over five hundred dollars.

March 6, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

As a matter of public interest it should become known that all income returns must be made on and before the first day of March, and if any person fails to make return of his income by that date, will be liable to be assessed according to the best information the Assessor of the district can obtain; in such cases the law requires fifty percent to be added to the amount of the tax, and from the valuation and enumeration so made there can be no appeal. The law requires every person suspected of being liable to pay an income tax to make sworn return, where supplied with blanks or not, nothwithstanding the amount may fall short of $1,000, which is the amount exempted by law. Hab., the Assessor, can be found in his office after 22d inst.

March 13, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We have had no mails this week in consequence of high water, hence our columns present rather a “thin pattern” of news.” There has been nothing doing in cotton this week, high water and bad roads preventing any from arriving—Quotations nominally 25@25½. The steamer Rob Roy arrived at wharf on Sunday evening last with the heaviest freight brought here this season. She left on Tuesday afternoon on her down trip.

March 20, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Mr. F. W. Murdock presented us the other day with a sack of very fine sweet potatoes, for which we return thanks. He has a lot of them for sale, both for eating and planting.     

The Bluella, Capt. Carpenter on deck and Capt. Crouch in the office, left this port yesterday, with a goodly load of cotton, and a large number of passengers. We are glad to learn that this staunch little boat has had quite a prosperous season, for her accommodating and gentlemanly officers are worth of all the success with which they have met. The steamer Native, Capt. Morris, bound for this place, lay up at Ewing’s landing on Saturday night last, and being out on the second bank, and the water falling from around her, she stuck hard and fast. The gallant little steamer Bluella, then lying at our wharf, went to her assistance, and brought up her freight. The present rise in the river will enable her to get off without material damage to her works.

April 3, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We direct the especial attention of our readers to the change in the advertisement of A.J. Stuart. Mr. A.S.B. Greene is now a partner in this house, and it will hereafter go under the firm name of Stuart & Greene. Mr. G. is too well known in this community as a clever and business gentleman, to need any commendation from us. They now have on hand, and constantly receiving their spring and summer goods, and are determined to keep a full supply of everything needed by their customers, which they will dispose of on the most liberal terms. The polite and attentive Dick Johnston can always be found in this house and will take great pleasure in showing you through their large stock. Give the firm of Stuart & Greene a call.

April 10, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

By action of the Legislature, the piece of property in Arkadelphia, heretofore occupied as Institute for the Blind, was donated to somebody or other, for the establishment of a Free High School. We have never received a copy of the bill and are consequently in the dark as to the measures therein contained. We learn that a teacher is in town who proposes to run the concern. That’s all we know about it.

April 17, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The regular term of this Court commenced last Monday. No cases of great importance were called up during the week; the work has gone on steadily and a large amount of business has been disposed of. His honor, Judge Searle, and Prosecuting Attorney Pratt, discharge the duties incumbent upon them with great ability and impartiality; eliciting commendations from the members of the Bar and all classes of citizens attending Court. It is a noticeable fact, that not one of the jurors (grand and petit) failed to respond upon the calling of the roll on Monday. We noticed a number of the disciples of Blackstone, from various parts of the state, attending Court. Amongst them, we may mention, Maj. Geo. A. Gallagher, Col. C. T. Jordan, and E. W. Gantt, of Little Rock and Judge Steel of Paraclifta.

April 24, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Telegraph to Arkadelphia: We are pleased to see that our merchants are fully alive to the importance of building a telegraph line to this place and are taking the initiatory steps toward having one constructed. We understand that a line is contemplated between Little Rock and Camden, on a direct line. The most feasible and cheapest route that could be built to this place would be to connect with this line at the nearest point, or what would be better, to contract with the company to bring the line through this place. This probably could be done cheaper than by any other plan, as the divergence from the direct line would not increase the distance exceeding twenty miles, while it would give direct communication with points north and south, without the delay and additional expense incident to a more circuitous route. Parties in this city have opened correspondence with the superintendent of the proposed line, to ascertain upon what terms he will bring it through this place, from which they will probably receive an answer by Tuesday morning’s mail. We have no doubt that the terms will be liberal, for all lines of the length of the one proposed require an intermediate station between the termini, for the purpose of keeping up the line, and as Arkadelphia is the only place of any commercial importance between Little Rock and Camden, or that would likely support an office, it would be manifestly in the interest of the company to bring it through this place. If the terms proposed by the company are at all liberal, they will doubtless be accepted by our citizens, and the line will be put in operation by the commencement of another business season. It will doubtless require some liberality on the part of our business men to induce the line to come through this city, and it is to be hoped that they will respond with a liberality commensurate with the great interest to be subserved. Let all subscribe towards it in proportion as they may consider that they will be benefitted by it, and not leave it to a few to foot the bill for an enterprise that will be for the benefit of all. In this fast age, that a telegraphic line is an absolute necessity to a place doing the business that Arkadelphia does, the experience of the past three seasons has abundantly proved. On the operations in cotton in a single day, it is not unfrequently the case that the losses sustained by the buyers would more than build the line proposed, because of the want of information in regard to the state of the market. But as we believe our merchants fully appreciate the importance of telegraphic communication with the principal markets, we deem it unnecessary to enlarge upon its advantages, and only hope that they will go to work with a zeal that will accomplish the desired end.

May 1, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Telegraph to Arkadelphia: Last week we alluded to the proposition of some of our merchants to enter into negotiations with the Western Union Telegraph to bring their contemplated line from Little Rock to Camden through this city. It appears from the letter of the superintendent of the line to Messrs. D. J. McDonald & Co., that we were mistaken as to the route it would be constructed over, as we were under the impression that it would be direct from Little Rock to Camden. The line is to run by the way of Pine Bluff, which makes it impracticable to bring it thro’ this place. The nearest point at which a line from this place could connect with that line would be at Princeton, thirty-two miles distant, shorter by twenty miles than a line to Camden, and of equal practical utility, and two thousand dollars less cost. All that is now necessary to insure the construction of the line is the getting up the necessary amount of funds, which we should think could be done without any difficulty. Every citizen of Arkadelphia, whether engaged in mercantile pursuits or not, is interested in having a telegraph line here, and should contribute to the extent of their ability towards its construction. The merchants especially, are deeply interested in it, for without telegraphic communication with the principal markets at which they trade, it is impossible for them to do a safe or judicious business. The fluctuation in the price of cotton often causes great loss to dealers in it, because of their not being posted as to the change in quotations. By the mails the news is always two days old when in reaches here, and the transactions in cotton for two days frequently involve a loss in a place doing the business that Arkadelphia does, of an amount sufficient to build the entire line. Businessmen who study their interest will certainly not let the small amount required of them stand in the way of an enterprise so manifestly for the benefit not only of themselves, but of the entire community. Let the amount be raised at once, and the superintendent notified of the fact that the work may be commenced as soon as possible, that it may be completed before the opening of another business season.

Since our last we have been visited by perfect floods of rain. It has rained nearly every day for a week, and from present prospects, more may be expected. The Ouachita overflowed its banks at this place in the early part of the week, but is now falling, notwithstanding the heavy rains that have fallen since. Considerable damage has been done to crops in the bottoms by the overflow.

May 8, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Some Fish: Our friend and fellow townsman, Barney Paynter, caught on Wednesday night last on a trot line in the river near this city, an alligator gar measuring near six feet and weighing sixty-nine pounds. When carried along the street he looked nearly as large as Barney, and “very like a whale.”

The cut worms are playing sad havoc with the gardens in this city. They have literally destroyed many of them, cutting down the tender plants and eating the leaves off those of larger and more hardy growth. We have heard several things recommended for their destruction, the most simple and easy of application of which is a little lime sprinkled on and around the plants. A strong decoction of tobacco poured at the roots of plants, it is also said, will effectually prevent their depredations.

May 15, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We were last Saturday—the 8^th inst.—presented with a mess of large nice Irish potatoes which were raised in the garden of our esteemed friend, Dr. D. S. Williams. Such favors, we can assure you Doctor, are highly appreciated, being the first we have had this season.

On Wednesday evening last, our city and vicinity were visited by a considerable sprinkling of hail accompanied by a heavy rain and some wind. The hail stones were too small, however, to do much damage to vegetation in this section, but from the remarkably cold snap that immediately succeeded it, we fear the hail in other sections has been very heavy.

May 22, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We are gratified to learn that the contract for grading Johnston Street has been let out and the work will soon commence and be pushed forward as rapidly as possible. The mud hole in from of F. M. Greene’s store has been not only an eye-sore to every well-wisher of the city, but at times it was almost an impassible barrier to wagon communication between the upper and lower portions of the street, and we rejoice at the prospect of its improvement. Besides, the street generally needs working on, as its present unsightly condition gives to our otherwise beautiful little city a dilapidated and decaying appearance, and impresses strangers with the idea that we have no spirit of enterprise and energy in our midst, and that our city is retrograding instead of improving. This is far from the fact, for no city in Arkansas has more of the spirit of “go-aheadativeness” than Arkadelphia, and none has brighter prospects ahead. Let the spirit of enterprise be manifest in the improvement of our principal business street, for no public improvement will impart a more lifelike appearance to the city or add more to the value of property.

May 29, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Strayed—from the residence of the subscriber, near McNeely’s Ridge, eight miles south of Rome, on the night of the 21^st inst., a sorrel mare mule, four or five years old, branded with the letter “T” on the left shoulder. When she left she had on a large bell with a new collar. I will give ten dollars reward for her delivery to me at my residence, or for any information that will enable me to recover her. —Frank McLelland

June 5, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The contractor for grading Johnston Street in this city, Capt. J. H. Wiggins, has commenced work and is progressing finely. When finished according to the specifications, it will add greatly to the appearance of the business part of our beautiful little city, and impart to it an aspect of enterprise and go-aheadativeness that will more than reimburse the outlay for the work. We would be glad to see every street in the city macadamized if the corporation had the means to do it. It would be money well and profitably expended.

June 12, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Improvements:  We are glad to see that a spirit of improvement has at length taken hold of our citizens which is manifesting itself in several new buildings in process of erection, besides a number of others in contemplation. On Johnston Street Mr. Wm. S. Stroope has built an addition to his store, besides remodeling the front of the old building, the whole now presenting a handsome and imposing front. Mr. Joel Stafford is also having the lumber get cut for having a new front built to his house. Mr. L. W. Marbury as just completed a large and commodious warehouse in rear of his store. Mr. Peter E. Greene has built a number of shops for various purposes, all under one roof, opposite J. Russell’s corner. Capt. R. E. Reames is putting up a handsome residence, and we notice in the western part of the city quite a pike of lumber, which we learn is for building two residences, one for Col. J. C. Moles, and the other for Mr. Robert Hale. There are other new buildings contemplated being built this summer, one of which is a fine business house on Johnston Street, besides important improvements to old buildings. These improvements speak well for the prosperity of our city, but its growing importance, we confidently believe, will demand more houses both for business and residence next fall than can be supplied to applicants, if still others are not built.

June 19, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Freak of Nature: Dr. W. S. Andrews of this city has a cow which, as a facetious friend of ours would remark, “is a regular circus cow.” About nine days ago she was delivered of a fully developed calf, and night before last she was delivered of another. Both are alive and kicking.

Dr. D. S. Williams has placed upon our table a lot of the finest Irish potatoes we have ever seen grown in Arkansas. There was one dozen of them, the lot weighing eight pounds. He planted them in the ordinary way, manuring with cotton seed, and the only cultivation they had was one furrow between the rows. He thinks they would have been much larger had they been better cultivated. If anybody can beat these potatoes we would like to see them.

June 26, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The Arkadelphia Tribune: This is the title of a new paper in this city, the first number of which made its appearance on Saturday last. It is neat in typography and edited with some evidence of spirit and energy. It is Radical in sentiment, but “roars as gently as a sucking dove,” and apparently is as harmless as a two days’ old pollywog. When its tail drops off it may begin to put on airs and hop around considerably. Apart from his politics, we extend the hand of fellowship to the editor, Mr. H.A. Timmons, and hope he may have a good time while he remains in our pleasant little city, which we suppose will be until he exhausts his share of the Secret Fund.

July 3, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

I.O.O.F.: The following is a list of officers elected last Monday evening in Caddo Lodge No. 13, I.O.O.F., to serve for the ensuing quarter: Jno. D. McCabe, Noble Grand; Adam Clark, Vice Grand; A.S.B. Greene, Secretary; W.D. Neely, Treasurer. This lodge meets every Monday evening at 8 o’clock at the Masonic Hall over the Baptist Church. We have been requested to say that all members in good standing are earnestly invited to be present next Monday evening, as there will be an installation of officers besides other business of importance will come before the lodge.

July 10, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

On Sunday evening last, we were visited by a most refreshing rain—what they call in Georgia, “a regular mud season.” For some four hours it descended as gently “as the dew of Herman, that run down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard, that run down to the skirts of his garment,” saturating the parched early and commanding blessings to the despondent husbandman. It was succeeded on Monday by other gentle showers, and now all nature rejoices under their revivifying influence. These rains appear to have been general, extending at least over this and adjoining counties. The river rose here some six or eight feet, showing that there was much rain up the country. The early crops of corn may now be considered safe, most of them being nearly in the roasting ear. One or two more good rains at proper intervals will make the entire crop, and people are already talking about corn at twenty-five cents per bushel the coming Fall. Verily, “the good time coming” which has been so long predicted, appears to be at hand. The cotton crop is also very promising, much of it being in bloom, well stocked, and heavily squared. We never saw a planting community in better spirits or more hopeful of large crops.

July 24, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Mammoth Leek: Mr. Lorenzo Hitchcock of this city presented us a few days since with a leek, the product of his garden, which is the largest that we have ever seen. It measures at the root nine inches in circumference and the stock is about five feet high. Mr. Hitchcock informs us that he will have a large quantity of seed for gratuitous distribution to his friends. The leek is a very fine esculent, superior to the eschallotte or onion, and much more prolific. We are also indebted to Mr. Hitchcock for a lot of the finest onions we have seen this year.

July 31, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The Revival: The revival which has been going on at the Baptist Church in this place for over three weeks continues with unabated interest. About forty persons have already united themselves with the different churches, and quite a number of others have made a profession of religion and will join the church at some future time. On Thursday evening Rev. J.O. Browning, Pastor of the Baptist Church, baptized eight persons in the Ouachita River. The meeting is participated ion by the different denominations jointly, the utmost harmony and true Christian feeling prevailing among them. This is as it should be and is a great essential to the advancement of genuine religion. We understand that quite an interesting revival is in progress at the Protestant Methodist Church west of Hollywood and one also at the Baptist Church near Rome in this county.

August 14, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Cleaning Out the River: A meeting was held at Rome on Saturday last for the purpose of devising ways and means to clean out the Little Missouri to a point opposite that place, so as to make it navigable for steam-boats. Between three and four hundred dollars were raised upon the spot, with a fair prospect in contiguous sections of procuring the balance of the requisite amount. The Ouachita from here to Camden needs cleaning out, all things considered, as much as the Little Missouri does, and if a place the size of Rome can raise over three hundred dollars in one day to clean out the Little Missouri it seems to us Arkadelphia might raise as many thousands to clean out the Ouachita. There are many logs, snags, and bars in the river which greatly obstruct navigation which, if removed, would ensure navigation two months longer in the year, and for much larger boats than we have been having. This would cheapen freights and lengthen the business season to an extent that would more than reimburse the outlay in the business of one season. If the river was navigable from here for boats of eight hundred or a thousand bales capacity, which it could be made with comparatively small cost, cotton could be shipped from here to New Orleans nearly as cheap as from Camden, and the freight could be shipped at a slight advance on Camden prices, thus enabling our merchants to pay more for cotton and sell goods cheaper than they can now afford to do. This would draw a large amount of trade here that now goes elsewhere. We hope, therefore, that our merchants will bestir themselves in this matter and that the initiatory steps will be immediately taken to do the necessary work while the river is at its present low stage.

August 21, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

A Curiosity: Some of our contemporaries have been bragging about double-headed chickens, four-legged ducks, and four babies at one birth, but we have a specimen of corn on  our table which we think is “some” in the way of a lusus naturae itself. Two well-formed and distinct ears grow from one stem, both enclosed in one shuck, the smaller ear enclosed in a separate shuck. They are united at the stem and not in the ear. The two weigh two and a quarter pounds, the larger one being eleven inches long, the smaller ten, both well-formed and full-grained. It was raised by Mr. D. Smith of this county.

August 28, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We understand Mr. A.H. Blish has received the appointment of Postmaster for this place. He contemplates removing the office to the old Stroope’s building, opposite Court House square. The necessary alterations are now being made.

September 4, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Col. O’Baugh, who was injured last week by being thrown from his buggy whilst enroute from Little Rock, was conveyed to his home yesterday morning. He is seriously, but not dangerously injured. We hope he will soon recover.

September 11, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We have many complaints from our subscribers at Camden that they do not get their papers regularly. We assure them the fault is not ours, nor do we believe it is at this place. The same complaint is made at DeRoche in this county, the paper being sometimes four or five weeks old before it reaches there. We think we know where the fault is, and if it is not corrected, we shall expose some postmaster.

September 18, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

On Tuesday last Mr. W.H. Blanton of this county brought in the first bale of cotton of the season. It classed low middling and was bought by Mr. L. Russell at 27½ cents, cash.

A camp meeting commenced at Brown’s Springs, about eight miles from this place, yesterday. We understand several distinguished preachers will be present. Everybody and his wife has gone or are going.

One of the prettiest signs in town is that of Saunders & Carter, which has just been put up. It was painted by Captain L.T. Kretschmar, who has been trying his “canny hand” on sign-painting for his own amusement. His efforts so far have been a perfect success, and his specimens would do credit to the most experienced artists.

September 25, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Mr. G.W. Reed of this city presented us with an apple, the second crop of the same tree this year. The tree on which it grew is of the red June variety, which bore a full crop at the proper season and afterwards bloomed and the second crop is now ripening, though it must be confessed it is rather a thin pattern. The one presented to us was of good size and fine flavor.

Our farming friends are actively engaged in picking out cotton. The yield per acre is tolerably fair, but nothing like it promised two months since. Those who count on a three million and a half crop will find themselves badly mistaken unless the crop is better elsewhere than in this section. Two months ago that was a fair estimate, but from the information we receive from all sections of the cotton growing states, we doubt not that the crop has been cut off a million of bales.

October 2, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

On Tuesday last, as some travelers were passing through this place, they stopped for a short time, when one of their horses in wandering about on a vacant lot, stepped upon the covering of an old well, which, being rotten, gave way and he was precipitated to the bottom, a distance of about thirty feet. Prompt measures were taken to get him out, but when it was accomplished, he was a dead horse. It would be well to have such places filled up or such accidents may cost the city pretty dear some time.

October 9, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We are glad to learn that the post office at Hollywood in this county will soon be in operation again, Miss Billie Ellis having received the appointment of Post Master for the office. This is an excellent appointment and will give universal satisfaction.

Mr. Dennis Barlow, of the firm of Barlow & Gantt, arrived at home on Tuesday morning last, from Louisville, making the round trip in twelve days, including six days spent in that city purchasing goods. This is the quickest trip ever made between the two places.

We regret to learn that on Wednesday night last, when the stage going from here to Little Rock was a short distance this side the DeRoche, the horses became unmanageable and ran away, upsetting the stage and more or less injuring all the passengers, and dislocating the driver’s ankle. Judge Ringo had an arm broken, and a Mr. Simms had one of his ankles dislocated.

October 16, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

By an ordinance of the City Council of Arkadelphia, any person who shall offer for sale within the limits of this city any butcher’s meat whatever, without first exposing it for sale at the public market house, shall be fined the sum of five dollars. Our country friends would do well to observe this ordinance or they may get themselves into trouble.

It is altogether a mistake that some people appear to labor under that Irish potatoes cannot be raised and saved in this country—Billie Williams gave us a few days since some of the finest specimens of this esculent that we ever say in any country. They were raised at his place near this city and are in an excellent state of preservation.

October 23, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

 We are having considerable weather about now. On Wednesday last a slow rain set in which has continued at intervals up to the present time, when it mended its lick and it is now raining with a vim that indicates a rise in the river, which would be very acceptable at this time. It is also very cool, and when the weather clears we expect a killing frost.

When in Camden we visited the steamer Bluella lying at that wharf and found Capt. Carpenter busily engaged in fitting her up for the trade of the approaching season. He informed us that he had made such improvements in her machinery as would greatly facilitate her speed and power and enable her to make two trips a week between this city and Camden. Very important additions will be made to her cabin accommodations which will enable them to entertain passengers in a more comfortable manner than heretofore. The energy displayed by the enterprising proprietors of this boat last season, under the most discouraging circumstances, entitles them to the liberal patronage of the businessmen of this community.

October 30, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The Quo Warranto Case: It will be remembered that some time in August last, Henry A. Timmons, styling himself “Mayor pro tempore” of Arkadelphia, demanded of Mayor Polleys “the books, papers and things” belonging to the city, without giving any authority for such demand. With this demand of course, Mayor Polleys refused to comply. A short time since a writ of quo warranto was served on him and the Board of Commission acting with him, at the instance of Cy Smith and others, to show by what right they exercised the duties of Mayor and Councilman. The case was ably argued on Tuesday last before his Honor Judge Serle by District Attorney Pratt and Attorney General Montgomery for the plaintiffs, and by Gov. Flanagin and Major Witherspoon for the defense. We did not hear the argument of the case, but understand that that of the two latter was overpowering and convincing to every unprejudiced man present. The effort to remove the legally elected officers of the city of Arkadelphia and appoint in their stead men who are in no way acceptable to the taxpayers of the city, was such a flagrant and unmitigated violation of law and justice that the attorneys who prosecuted the case evidently felt that they were engaged in a very dirty affair, and were so ashamed of their participation in it, that they did not acquit themselves with their usual ability, but floundered and stammered all through their argument. The case being of great interest and involving important principles, Judge Searle has reserved his decision until Thursday next, when he will again convene court and deliver it. The case of George S. Polleys, who was attempted to be removed in the same manner from the office of Justice of the Peace of Caddo Township, was argued on Monday, and the same course was taken in regard to it.

November 6, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Our talented young friend L.T. Kretschmar, was admitted to the bar at the late term of the Court in this city to practice in all the courts of law and equity in this state. We predict for him a brilliant career in his new profession.

Cotton continues to come in slowly, and very little is offering for sale, the planters generally preferring to store rather than to take present prices. All offering finds ready sale at ruling prices—22@22½ c.

Judge Searle rendered his decision on Thursday last, in the case of George S. Polleys, Esq., who it will be remembered Gov. Clayton attempted to remove from the office of Justice of the Peace of Caddo Township in this county, some time since. The decision sustains Polleys in his office.

November 13, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The scarcity of provisions in this city at this time is perfectly alarming to a hungry man, for with the great abundance in the country it is almost impossible to get enough of the necessaries of life to “keep soul and body together,” much less such luxuries as chickens, eggs, butter, &c. One-half the time we are without meal and the other half without meat, except fat bacon, which is not palatable to a weak stomach. The people of this city want beef, pork, mutton, kid, venison, ‘possums, coons, beavers, squirrels, birds, chickens, ducks, geese, guineas, penfowls, turkeys, meal, peas, potatoes, pumpkins, turnips, in fact everything that will do to eat. We say to our country friends, bring in your produce of whatever character, and you can find ready sale for it at remunerative prices. Never mind market ordinances, that thing has played out, and our citizens will stand between you and all danger and pay all the fines that may be imposed on you for violating any market ordinance.

November 20, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

On Friday last Rev. C. Pope, who has been stationed at this place the present year as pastor of the Methodist Church, left for the Little Rock Conference, which meets next week at Magnolia. His labors here have been blessed with the most gracious results, and if the feelings of the citizens of this place are consulted he will be returned, for there is not a man, woman, or child in the place, whether of his church or not, to whom he is not only acceptable, but a great favorite, both as a man and a pastor. We but express the common wish when we say that we hope he may be returned to us another year.

November 27, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Fire: We regret to learn that the residence of Dr. W.T. Morehead, near Midway in Hot Spring County, was totally destroyed by fire on Monday morning last. The fire originated in the kitchen, either from the stove or fireplace, and when first discovered about two hours before day, the flames had made such rapid progress it was impossible from the close proximity of the kitchen to the dwelling, to stay their progress or to save from the dwelling anything of consequence. The doctor lost nearly all of his medicine, wearing apparel, beds and bedding, provisions and furniture, his wife being left without a change of clothing. The loss is estimated at three thousand dollars, which was nearly all of his earthly goods, and makes it so much harder for him to bear. We are glad to learn that most of his books and papers were saved.

December 4, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Resignation: We are requested by George S. Polleys, Esq., to state that his business engagements are such as to necessitate his removal from the city and that he is therefore compelled to resign the office of Mayor of Arkadelphia. While we regret to lose Capt. Polleys as a citizen and an officer of our town, we are pleased to learn that he is engaging in a business that promises him a richer return for faithful labor than he could hope to realize in working for the public in an official capacity. We learn that he has perfected his arrangements for erecting a steam grist and saw mill at Brown’s Sulphur Springs some eight miles east of this place, and as soon as circumstances will warrant, he contemplates adding thereto a sash and blind factory, planning mill, and such other machinery as the wants of the country require. He informs us that ample arrangements will be made to accommodate all who wish to visit the Springs next summer either as health or pleasure seekers.

December 11, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We invite especial attention to the advertisement of Mr. M.O. Hill, who, in consequence of failing health, offers his steam sawmill near Antoine for sale. The mill is in good condition and is doing a fine business, having now about four months sawing engaged. The land belonging to the mill is well timbered, being sufficient to run the mill for twenty years. It is surrounded by one of the richest and most prosperous neighborhoods in south Arkansas, which will furnish as much sawing as the mill can do. A better opening for a profitable investment of capital does not often present itself.

December 18, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We notice that several parties have laid brick sidewalks recently in front of their premises on Johnston Street, and several other parties are actively engaged in the same work. When all the sidewalks are paved, our town will present quite a cityfied appearance.

Navigation has now fairly opened on our river, and we now have water enough to float the Great Eastern. On Wednesday evening last, the steamer Lightwood, our clever and genial fried Capt. Pres Lindsey, on deck, arrived with a small freight. This is the best boat for this trade that has been here since the war, and we would be glad if she would continue in it. Several other boats are hourly expected, and we may safely calculate that navigation is now permanently opened. Our planters can not bring in their cotton as soon as they please, whether they wish to sell or not, with a certainty of finding a ready market, or transportation to the seaboard for it. While we believe cotton will command a better price later in the season than it now does, it is the duty of the planter to sell a sufficiency of his crop to meet his obligations and to lay in his supplies. The general benefits to the country that would accrue from such a course would more than compensate for the difference in the price.

December 25, 1869: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Murder in Pike County: We understand—says the Washington Telegraph of the 15^th inst.—that a fatal affray took place in Pike County, on the road from Antoine to Murfreesboro, one day last week. The circumstances, as we understand them, appear to be about as follows: It seems that the parties, whose names are Elkins and Nash, had had some misunderstanding in regard to some land that Nash had rented from Elkins, and that they had agreed to settle it by law. They both procured their witnesses and started in company for Murfreesboro. On their way there, words of an angry nature ensued between the parties when Elkins drew the pistol (a six shooter). Nash, seeing this, started his horse in a run to escape being shot. Elkins fired three shots at Nash, when about fifty yards distant, each shot taking effect; the last one entering the back and lodging in the heart, producing instant death. Elkins escaped arrest. We know nothing of the parties, save that Nash was a resident of Clark County and was said to be a sort of brasgacoc’o, trouble-making character.

January 8, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Mr. F.W. Murdock, living near this place, presented us a few days since, with a couple of turnips which beat anything in that line that general turn up in this section. They weighed respectively 9¾ and 7½ pounds and were firm, sweet, and juicy. Their extraordinary growth was owing as much to the quality of the land on which they were grown as to the culture or variety of the fruit.

We are gratified to learn that our esteemed fellow citizen, Dr. D.S. Williams, who has been dangerously ill for the past ten days, is considered by his attending physicians to be slightly better, and though by no means out of danger, strong hopes are entertained of his recovery. We sincerely hope that these hopes may be realized and that he may be spared to his family and to the community by whom he is so highly esteemed both as a man and a physician.

January 15, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

There has been considerable activity in the cotton market during the week, with heavy receipts. Prices have ruled very high, considering the seaboard markets. The supply of groceries has been very limited for a short time past, owing to having no navigation, but we are hourly expecting the Bluella, Native, and Era, when the market will be well-supplied with every needful article.

On Monday last the lot fronting the Baptist Church on which there is an old building which is rather an incumbrance than otherwise, sold at public auction for $1301, one-fourth cash, the balance twelve months credit, with approved security and lien upon the property. Col. J.C. Moles was the purchaser. The plantation known as the Dickinson farm containing 160 acres was sold at the same time for $2700.

January 22, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Since our last our wharf has presented quite a lively appearance. On Saturday evening the Native arrived with a full load of freight. On Sunday afternoon the Trenton came in with an excellent cargo, and on Monday the ever-faithful little Bluella glided into port loaded down to the guards. On Tuesday all three left with full loads of cotton. Early yesterday morning the Bluella returned, light, making the round trip in less than three days, and about two hours after the Native came in with a good load. Our merchants now wear more cheerful countenances, having received large supplies of groceries and gotten off the bulk of their cotton.

February 12, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The fine passenger steamer Trenton arrived at our port on Saturday last with a good cargo, the most valuable portion of which was consigned to us. We have to thank Capt. Billie Johnson and Henry Nelson for the excellent care taken of our consignment and are happy to state that it was received in “good order and well conditioned.” With such accommodations as the Trenton possesses and such gentlemanly and clever officers, we could have expected nothing else. Long may the Trenton ply our waters and her present corps of gentlemanly officers, from the captain down, remain in charge of her. She left on Sunday with as much cotton as she could take out on the water then in the river. Captain Johnson and Henry Nelson have our thanks for late New Orleans papers.

February 26, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

On Saturday last a serious accident occurred to the little son of Capt. H.A. Swink, living near this place, showing the great danger of allowing children to use firearms. It appears that the little fellow was going out squirrel hunting with some other boys about his own age and his gun being loaded with buckshot he attempted to draw the load, and after removing the wad, he turned the muzzle down, resting it in his left hand, and while knocking the butt against the fence the hammer struck, causing the gun to go off, the whole lead passing through his hand and on through his thigh, mutilating the former in such a manner as to render amputation necessary, and inflicting an ugly and painful wound in the latter. Though suffering great pain the little fellow is doing very well and is considered out of danger. He is a bright and intelligent lad, and we deeply regret the great misfortune that has befallen him.

March 5, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

It is said that Job was a very patient man, and notwithstanding the severe afflictions that were sent upon him by the devil, he still maintained his integrity; but if he had been tried as we have lately by the mails’ failures, we think the old boy would have become a little fretful and perhaps thought some “cuss words,” whether he had uttered them or not. For two Saturdays in succession there have been entire failures of the newspaper mail, the bag having gone on to Camden or some other point, by the failure of the Postmaster at Rockport or some other port failing to attend to their duties. The repeated failures lately have been a great inconvenience to our citizens, and it is high time that some inquiry should be made into the cause. The mail agent, if there is one, should go over the line and see where the fault lies and remedy the evil. There is no necessity in the world for the mail to fail between here and Little Rock, and whenever it does occur, it is from sheer negligence on the part either of postmasters, contractors, or drivers, and delinquents should be made to suffer.

March 12, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We see by our Little Rock exchanges, that they have the smallpox in that city. Twelve cases have been reported, nine at the hospital and three outside.

The prospect of a railroad through this section is brightening. Next week we propose to give all the information we can gather on the subject to show “the reason for the faith within us.”

March 19, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The weather for the past few days has been cold and windy, regular winter weather. We have been told by some of our country friends that the fruit has been very near all killed. We hope not. We have had several boats up from below during the past week. The Trenton, Rose Franks, Native, and Bluella, have all been at our landing and brought good loads of groceries &c. The river is falling slowly and we are fearful the boats will not return without another rise in the river.

March 26, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We are not given to making predictions, but could not refrain in our last issue from cautioning our citizens against “Orton’s Circus.” It came according to flaming posters and proved to be the veriest humbug ever witnessed in this section of the state. A miserable, drunken, quarrelsome set of bruisers “made a raid” upon our usually quiet city about 10 o’clock, and after destroying a considerable quantity of good whisky, stretched a tent near the Court House. Over one hundred of our populace (we were amongst the number) consented to be swindled out of a little surplus greenbacks during the afternoon and evening’s entertainment. There was not a single horse in the “magnificent stud of blooded stock” that was able to gallop round the ring—there was not a single passably good rider, male or female—there was not one individual in the company capable of turning a “flip-flop” in a sober condition; but, during the stay of the “outfit” in Arkadelphia, we noticed considerable “ground and lofty tumbling.” Come around again, you “circus fellows,” but you on-toes-to humbug us so. We intend copyrighting the above, to present the reprinting of this “puff” on the show bills. We advise the press throughout the state to pass them around.

April 2, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The Little Rock Gazette of the 25^th ult. Says: “Superintendent L.C. Baker has commenced the erection of a telegraph line to Hot Springs. The line is progressing rapidly and will be completed in less than a month. It will be extended immediately to Arkadelphia after it is finished to the Springs.” We may reasonably look for the telegraph here within the next two months.

Mr. J.A. Wilsford has purchased the interest of Mr. R.A. Johnston in the livery stable at this place and is now sole proprietor. He has fine stock, good buggies, comfortable vehicles, and polite and attentive hostlers, and if you want a pleasant ride or your horse properly cared for, give Aleck a call.

April 9, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

A few days since we visited our friend W.A. Trigg, Esq., who lives some six miles from this place, and in company with him and two other gentlemen, rode over a portion of his plantation and to the quarry of stone of which we made brief mention last week in speaking of the Cairo and Fulton Railroad. This quarry is situated immediately on the Caddo River, jutting out to the water’s edge for more than a mile long the banks to the depth of from fifty to seventy-five feet, and extending back from the river only a few feet below the soil, a distance of over a mile. This stone is of a grayish color, of fine grit, and we are informed makes the most superior grindstones, many persons in the neighborhood having used them for years to their entire satisfaction. When first taken from the bed it is as soft and as easily worked as common sandstone, but on exposure to the air becomes as hard as any granite. The portions of stone jutting out from the ground appears to be in layers from six to twelve inches thick and in blocks from three to six feet across, as if hewn out and laid there for a specific purpose. This stone can be raised from its bed with very little blasting, as the veins or layers are almost as easily separated as oak timber. Indeed, the chimneys, fireplaces, and hearths of Mr. Trigg’s house were built from this stone, and the only instruments used in preparing the stone were a few wedges and an old club-ax, and yet, though the work of an inexperienced hand, they present a handsome appearance, the corners and arches being well turned, and the backs and hearths of solid stone are almost as smooth as marble. Opposite the quarry the river is deep enough to float any size boat, and one thousand boats could be brought down on a rise of a few feet in the river. From what we could see and learn, there could be stone enough obtained from this quarry to build every pier, abutment, and culvert from here to the Pacific coast, and enough left to build a city as large as New York. And Mr. Trigg offers to give the free use of this quarry for a term of years to any railroad running through Arkadelphia and locating a depot here. The use of such a quarry to a railroad would be of incalculable value to it as it will furnish it with the stone for all necessary building purposes at comparatively small cost. Mr. Trigg has one of the finest tracts of land in south Arkansas. It lies immediately on the Caddo and comprises several thousand acres, about three thousand acres in one body almost as level as a prairie, a large proportion of which is in a high state of cultivation, and though some of it has been cultivated over fifty years, will yet produce a bale of cotton to the acre and from fifty to seventy-five bushels of corn. Mr. Trigg has quite a number of tenants on this land, all of whom appear to be working it well and systematically.

April 16, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We learn from Uncle Tommy Denson, who has but recently returned from Little Rock, that the hands which have been camped near that city for some time, supposed to be for the purpose of working on the Cairo and Fulton Railroad, are still in camp awaiting orders to go to work. The supposition is that the officers of the road are awaiting the action of Congress on the bill now pending before that body extending the time for building the road, before commencing the work. The bill has been reported favorably on by the committee to whom it was referred and there is but little doubt that it will pass. If it does pass, we learn that work will be commenced immediately and pushed forward in this direction from Little Rock as rapidly as possible. If the bill fails, the prospects of a road through this section any time soon will dwindle down to a bare possibility.

April 23, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The Hot Springs Courier says that a petition is being circulated and freely signed for the removal of the courthouse from Rockport to Hot Springs. As the county buildings cannot be built on the reservation, Maj. John H. Ward proposes to give the county six acres, just below the reservation, on the Sulphur Springs Road.

Our court room has been repaired and is now very handsomely and conveniently arranged. We are of the opinion however, that the taxation for repairs made should have been collected in two assessments. But then—well, “the whole hog or none” is one of the main planks in the Radical platform.

April 30, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The Circuit Court of this county is still in session and is transacting all business coming before it will all the dispatch consistent with the ends of justice. Judge Searle has presided with his usual dignity and impartiality and has won additional honors from both the bar and litigants. Prosecuting Attorney Pratt has labored hard and faithfully to vindicate the majesty of the law, but outside of a certain clique the transgressions against the law have been so few that his fees have been but small. The most important trial that has taken place was the State v. Samuel D. Harris, charged with killing Stephen Etchison some eighteen months since. The jury, a very intelligent one, found no difficulty in finding a verdict of “not guilty.” Mr. Harris is one of our best citizens and no one believes he ever intended to murder Etchison.

Our diminutive friend, Joseph Cossart, caught on his trot line last Wednesday a catfish that for these waters is considered some. His catship, when divested of all superfluities, weighed just thirty-eight pounds. He was taken in by swallowing a horse (red) that was hitched to one of the numerous hooks on the main line, the said redhorse weighing several pounds and half himself.

May 7, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The Grand Jury at its late session, found true bills against all the saloon keepers in the place for retailing liquor without county license. While the Grand Jury did only their duty in this matter, inasmuch as these dealers were ignorant of the law, it having never been enforced since the war, they were innocent of any intention of violating it and are entitled to the utmost clemency of the Court.

Hon. J.C. Ray, who has so worthily and satisfactorily to our citizens filled the office of Mayor for some time past, in consequence of business engagements, has resigned. Our Junior, Adam Clark, has been appointed by the Council to the position. Adam “bears his blushing honors” meekly and does not appear to be “a bit stuck up” in consequence of them. It was a most judicious selection and he will make a very efficient Mayor.

The denizens of the rural but thriving little village, Rome, in the western part of this county, was thrown into the most intense excitement a few days since by the announcement that a steamboat had arrived opposite that place, having come that far up the Little Missouri. As it was the first steamboat that had ever been up that river, of course it created a great sensation and the people from all the surrounding country flocked to see the novel sight—the cows all along the river cocked up their tails and ran like Satan was after them, and the hogs went “shoohshoohing” through the woods, and one venerable man thought the day of judgment had come and began to confess his sins, telling of numberless hen roosts he had robbed and hogs he had stolen. Our esteemed but excitable friend, Judge H.B. Stuart, mounted his horse and came post haste to receive the congratulations of his friends on the fortune so suddenly thrust upon him.

May 14, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

May Day Celebration—The Sunday School children had a celebration on Tuesday last which passed off to the satisfaction of all concerned. About 10 o’clock A.M., the procession formed in front of the Presbyterian Church, under the direction of D.J. McDonald, Marshal of the Day, and marched thro’ the principal street in double file, making a most beautiful display, and proceeded to the grove near the old Blind Institute, where a sumptuous and tempting dinner was prepared, of which all present partook with much apparent zest. After dinner the children sung some appropriate songs with a clearness and sweetness of voice remarkable in those so young. Our young friend, Eugene McDonald, delivered a beautiful and chastely written address, after which R.D. Hearn, Esq., was called for and responded in a few appropriate and eloquent remarks which were well-received. Dr. Hamilton had his camera on the ground and succeeded in taking a splendid picture of the group.

May 21, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Judge Searle on Saturday last sentenced James Parker and Green Bly, two of the men convicted of murder in the second degree in the Circuit Court of this county last week, to ten years’ imprisonment in the penitentiary. Robert Bird was granted a new trial when the Prosecuting Attorney dismissed the case. Demby loses two of his Club, and the Radicals of Montgomery County two votes.

It will be seen by reference to the proceedings of a meeting of the citizens of Clark, Hempstead, Ouachita, and Pike counties that they adopted preliminary arrangements to clean out the Little Missouri River to a point opposite Rome. This, if successful, will be of great benefit to the people of that section.

May 28, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

A most terrific and destructive hail and wind storm passed over the lower portion of this county on Tuesday last, extending over into Dallas, literally destroying the growing crops and causing great destruction to the timber and fencing. In Anderson Township the corn was riddled and the cotton completely beaten to pieces, necessitating the planting over in many places. Large quantities of hail could have been gathered up in unexposed places the next morning. We learn that a short distance this side of Camden it was still more destructive, the corn and cotton in many neighborhoods being entirely destroyed, and the planters are busily engaged in planting over both corn and cotton. How far the storm extended we have not heard, but fear that it took a very wide range.

The telegraph has been completed between Little Rock and Hot Springs and the friends of the enterprise at each end of the line simultaneously celebrated the event one night last week, and champagne and other like commodities flowed freely. Judging from the wording of some of the dispatches that passed between the celebraters, we shouldn’t be surprised if it would not have been well to have divided up their grand celebration into three or four of smaller size. We learn that the Company is now at work on the line this side of Hot Springs and that it will be completed to this place in three or four weeks.

June 4, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

A daily line of coaches has been put on the route between this place and Little Rock and we now have daily mails to and from this place, both east and west, east by coaches and wet by horse and coach on alternate days. This will be a great convenience to our citizens and will enable us to give one day’s later news than under the old tri-weekly arrangement.

Dr. Rowland sent us a specimen of Irish potatoes which surpasses anything we ever saw, not so much in size as the yield to the vine. They were the product of two vines, and large and small numbered, we suppose, some seventy or eighty.

June 11, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The steamer Lightwood came up the river as far as the Hart place, some eight miles below, and not being able to get over the shoals, she discharged her freight and returned to Camden. The indomitable Carpenter, captain of the gallant little Bluella, concluded that it would “never do to give it so” and at last accounts he had got over the Hart Shoals and was still kicking, trying to make it to this place, in which we hope she will be successful, though the water is very low even for her.

June 18, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Charlie Trickett has bought out Capt. G.S. Polleys’ interest in the mills at Brown’s Springs and will hereafter run them on his own account. He is now prepared to fill all orders for lumber at reasonable prices, and to grind all the corn in the neighborhood or the country for twenty miles around. He is a thorough-going man in all he undertakes and is deserving of patronage.

We are pleased to see that our clever and accommodating young friend, J.P. Hart, is acting as Deputy Postmaster at this place. Polite and affable to all and attentive to his duties, he is “the right man in the right place.” If Mr. Blish will now remove the Post Office from the Rad Hole to some decent locality, he will confer a favor on our citizens and secure their lasting gratitude.

June 25, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We learn from reliable persons who have passed by the spot, that immediately after the recent earthquake, in the middle of the road on Chalybeate Mountain, about twenty-five miles from this place, where it was almost as hard as a rock before, there appeared a quagmire, and several persons attempting to ride over it before being acquainted with its character had their horses to mire so they had to be pried out. The shock is said to have been very severe in that immediate locality. The matter is certainly worthy of scientific investigation.

Capt. T.R. Tennison, Assistant Deputy Marshal for taking the census of this county, is progressing rapidly with his work. He has nearly completed two townships. He finished in this place yesterday and we learn that the inhabitants in the corporate limits amount to 950. In the suburbs there are some two or three hundred more, we suppose. We learn that Capt. Tennison expects to get through with the entire county by the 25^th of August.

July 2, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

In view of the large and promiscuous crowd that will probably be in town on Monday next, the Mayor has very wisely ordered that all the drinking saloons be closed on that day. A disturbance of the peace on that occasion would ruin the town. We abjure our friends to do nothing that will furnish a pretext for a riot.

July 9, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Our estimable lady friend, Mrs. John C. Green of Okolona, in this county, sends us a beet that beats any beet that we have seen in this beat. It was raised from the seed planted last spring, is of the white turnip variety, and weighs six pounds and four ounces. It resembles in shape a duck ready dressed for cooking. She has many more nearly as large in her garden. Can anybody in this beat, beat this beet?

We notice with pleasure that that old eyesore, the Hearn Hotel, is being torn down preparatory to erecting a fine brick store by Messrs. Stewart & Elder. They contemplate having it completed by the time the next business season opens. We are also pleased to notice that Messrs. C.B. Trent & Co. have got the lumber on the spot to build a fine business house next door east of Saunders & Carter’s store. We hear of several other buildings of like character in contemplation this fall. This looks like business.

July 16, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

We are informed by Mr. J.T. Golden that on Monday last he sawed at his steam sawmill eight miles from this place, with one saw, 9560 feet of square lumber and 1500 feet of sheeting. An accident early in the morning delayed the work for some time, or he could have sawed considerably more. He is now prepared to furnish lumber at short notice, sawed to order, and at the same time he has a large lot now piled up at his mill, ready for delivery. Send in your bills and they will be immediately filled. Mr. Golden also has an excellent flouring mill in successful operation, turning out very superior flour. Also a corn mill, which he runs the three latter days of the week.

July 23, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Our planting friends in this county have been very much exercised for the last ten days about a worm that appeared in their cotton fields about ten days ago. When they first appeared they attacked only the grass, but after eating up the grass they commenced upon the cotton, and on some plantations they have done considerable damage, while on others they have done very little. There appears to be a contrariety of opinion among planters as to the amount of damage that has been done the crop, some contending that but little damage has been done, while others say that the damage has been very serious. They are now dying out and all apprehensions as to their future depredations have subsided.

July 30, 1870: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

If you want a good clean shave, with sharp razors and clean towels to wipe on, or your hair cut a la mode, call on W.A. Denio, who has opened a first class barber shop next door west of A.M. Crow’s store.

1916

January 6, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Farm Demonstrator for Clark County: A.E. Ferguson of Mississippi has been selected for the government farm demonstrator for Clark County for the year 1916, and has arrived here and entered actively upon the discharge of his duties. Being a stranger here Mr. Ferguson is anxious to get in touch with the farmers of our county as soon as possible, and so outline a course by which he can be of most assistance to them. He is especially anxious to have organized as soon as possible boys’ corn clubs and boys’ pig clubs throughout the county. He believes in publicity and will have something to say to the people from time to time through the Southern Standard, which of course we will only be too glad to publish since our whole purpose here has been to help the people to develop this country.

Mr. Ferguson comes to our county with the highest endorsements as a man well fitted to the work he is selected to do. Being a native of Mississippi he is a graduate of the University of Mississippi and has spent several years as a student of the agricultural college of that state. He had his choice of going to either of five counties of Arkansas to fill the position of farm demonstrator and that he chose Clark County shows him to be a man of unusual good taste. He is a first cousin to Dr. M.G. Ferguson of this city, through neither had ever seen the other until Mr. Ferguson arrived here.

With the coming of the new year, Clark County takes its place in agricultural life among the other counties of the state. The farm demonstrator, Mr. A.M. Ferguson is already here, and the canning club agent, Miss Mamie Weaver, will come soon. Both Mr. Ferguson and Miss Weaver come most highly recommended. Clark County was promised the best demon-strator and agent to be had, and Mr. Ferguson was the pick of 1200 men. Miss Weaver is considered one of the best canning agents in the state and will no doubt bring Clark County to the front in the work. Next fall we’ll be telling over the state what our boys and girls have done, as other counties have told this fall.

All that is necessary to secure the services of the farm demonstrator and canning club agent is to write to Judge Harley, Mr. Ferguson, or Miss Weaver in Arkadelphia and ask them to come and organize the boys and girls. There is no charge for their instruction—the county and state pays them to do this for us. Next fall we’ll have an industrial fair and see what sort of corn and vegetables the boys and girls have grown and what their expense has been and how much money they have cleared.

January 13, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

A New President for Elk Horn Bank: The stockholders of the Elk Horn Bank & Trust Co., met in annual session at 11 a.m., January 11^th, 1916. The following directors were elected: J.C. Wallis, R.B.F. Key, J.W. Patterson, I.W. Cook, E.E. Meador, J.S. Cargile, R.A. Stuart, R.H. Greene, W.H. Cooper, C.C. Henderson, W.E. Barkman.

In the directors meeting immediately following the stockholders meeting, C.C. Henderson, who has been president of the bank for the past nine years, made a short talk in which he asked that he not be considered for re-election, and nominated as his successor, J.S. Cargile, who was unanimously elected. R.B.F. Key was elected first vice president, Capt. I.W. Cook second vice president, and Dr. J.C. Wallis third vice president. A semi-annual dividend of 6 percent was declared.

January 20, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Vital Statistics for Caddo Township: City Recorder Joe Saunders has compiled and furnished us with the following record of births and deaths for Arkadelphia and Caddo Township for the year 1915. Both births and deaths show a decided increase over the preceding year, the figures for 1915, from Feb. 1 to Dec. 31 being, births 197 and deaths 157.

Cause of death: Appendicitis, 2; Miscarriage, 1; Cancer, 1; Diphtheria, 1; Stomach trouble, 1; Gastritis, 2; Nephritis, 5; Pellagra, 6; Stillborn, 7; Typhoid fever, 3; Pneumonia, 17; Tuberculosis, 13; Apoplexy, 1; Accidental burn, 1; Peritonitis, 3; Diabetes, 2; Bright’s disease, 1; LaGrippe, 2; Abscess of lungs, 1; Rheumatism, 1; Tumor, 1; Hemorrhage, 4; Malarial fever, 5; Asthma, 2; Accidental poison, 1; Teething, 1; Unknown, 8; Angina pectoris, 1; Killed by lightning, 1; Gangrene poison, 1; Drowned, 2; Dysentery, 1; Swamp fever, 2; Congestion, 11; Hysteria, 1; Dropsy, 2; Heart failure, 6; Chronic nephritis, 1; Old age, 6; Premature birth, 2.

January 27, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

The Clark Circuit Court met here last Monday morning with Judge G.R. Haynie presiding. There is a fair amount of civil business on docket with three murder cases among the criminal offenses. The most sensational case perhaps will be the trial of Ed Dixon for the murder of his wife. It is claimed that he poisoned her so as to enable him to marry another woman. The other two murder cases are, first, the trial of Bud Smith for the murder of Elbert Conway at Graysonia, and the trial of “Mush” Allen, who killed a man because he entered his house.Following is a record of the court proceedings up to until the time we went to press. R.C. Childs versus Antoine Valley Railway Company. Continued. State versus Kinney Humphreys, et al., drunkenness. Plea of guilty as to all but Dan Lee, and fined $10.00. Dismissed as to Lee. State versus Robert Malcomb, et al., drunkenness. Plea of guilty as to Malcomb and Tom Glover and fined $10.00 each. State versus Henderson Nevels, et al., Sabbath breaking. Plea of guilty as to disturbing the peace, fined $10.00. State versus Jesse Posey, assault and battery. Fined $5.00. J.T. Loyd Co. versus J.C. Phelps. Dismissed at the cost of the plaintiff. Durrett Davis versus Clark County Lumber Co.  Dismissed for want of jurisdiction. The trials of Ed Dickson, indicted for murder in the first degree, and Mrs. May Buck, indicted for accessory to murder in the first degree, have been set for next Wednesday. For next Thursday have been set the cases against John Wilson, charged with assault with intent to kill; Henry and Charles Cunningham, charged with burglary and grand larceny; and Douglas Ryan, charged with grand larceny.

February 3, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

105 Citizens Want Kress for Mayor: January 29^th, 1916–To Hon. J.J. Kress, Mayor of the City of Arkadelphia:

Dear Sir: — We, the undersigned citizens, voters, and taxpayers of the City of Arkadelphia, desire to express our appreciation of the services which you have rendered the City of Arkadelphia during your administration. We have found in you a fair and impartial judge in the enforcement of the laws, and an able and efficient official in the discharge of your many duties. We believe that it was largely through your efforts that we secured the pure water through filtration, the “White Way,” extensive improvements in the water and lighting systems of our city, and an improved sanitary condition throughout the entire city. We have found you a man of action, progressive in all things and with a will to do, and commend you for having devoted practically your entire time to the many duties of your office and in trying to boost Arkadelphia and improve it in every way possible. The faithful discharge of your duties has signified a spirit of unselfishness and extreme loyalty to our town, and we beg to request that you become a candidate for a second term, to which we think you are entitled, and we feel that all progressive citizens will join with us in this request: W.E. Barkman, O.H. Allen, Will H. Lee, Rev. E.M. Pipkin, W.C. Halsell, W.E. Adams, E.R. Williams, J.J. Pannell, G.D. Davis, Will D. Eskew, R.C. McDaniel, W.F. Whitten, J.G. Sigler, Dale Stewart, Will A. Stewart, John N. Stuart, J.D. Spragins, S.A. Rudisell, W.T. Bradley, J.A. Mattar, J.E. Callaway, B.T. Robbs, N.D. Huie, W.F. Moore, Ben Bussell, B.R. Oastler, Paul R. Ohls, W.E. Walton, H.B. Bledsoe, Paul T. Davidson, John R. Grogan, C.C. Henderson, Ed Linblad, C.C. Tobey, E. Nowlin, J.W. Carter, A.O. Evans, P.F. Cleaver, J.C. Patterson, S.T. Morehead, Carl Rogers, W.W. Dwiggins, R.A. Stuart, E.R. Mackey, R.D. Briscoe, T.M. Hammond, J.W. Patterson, Edmond Patterson, James A. Patterson, C.F. Cooley, C.J. Meador, Louis Jacks, I.F. Pullen, Jesse Rogers, John R. Phillips, C.R. Adams, LeRoy Thompson, Joe David, M.W. Izard, C.E. Ray, Leslie Goodloe, H.H. Heard, Spence Hearn, J.D. Rowley, G.A. Williams, James Brown, I.W. Millikan, J.A. Gannaway, J.A. Caldwell, B.C. Birkhead, W.R. Williams, B.S. Welsh, James G. Clark, C.C. Tobey Jr., C.L. Houston, V. Tobey, Z.A. Clark, J.E. Williams, Ap Thompson, R.W. Huie Jr., J.M. Workman, J.R. McDonald, B.M. Mace Jr., C.C. Berryman, W.T. Rowland, V.H. Wright, C.B. Amis, R.W. Petty, I.W. Cook, W.T. Gulledge, E.W. Thomas, Claud Phillips, M.G. Ferguson, Homer L. Bray, C. Dunn, T.N. Wilson, W.L. Huie, Louis Stroope, D.L. Graves, N.V. Wright, T.A. Tennyson, H.L. McAlister, Taylor H. Allen, L.E. Gulledge, J.M. Mackey. February 2, 1916—Gentlemen: I desire publicly to express my deep appreciation of the above expressions, and after having given the matter a due consideration I feel that in view of the above request that it is nothing but my duty to announce as a candidate for re-election to the office of mayor subject to the city primary to be held Feb. 23^rd, 1916, and if elected I will give the office the same personal attention for the city’s welfare as I have endeavored to do in the past.  — J.J. Kress

February 4, 1916: Malvern Times Journal

Point Cedar on a Boom:  We have had lots of rain the past week. All the creeks and river got out of their banks. The shaft at the mines had 65 feet of water in it, on account of their big pump breaking. They have received new parts for the pump and they are moving right along again. Mr. McGraw says that he has spent about $25,000 getting ready for mining. This company has just bought all the Watson and Small land east of the mines and is now trying to buy the balance of the Sarah Campbell property.  There will be a man here from Kansas City in a few days to survey and lay out a town site for us. We are wondering what we will put in our town, but we are going to have the town just the same. F.M. Anderson’s little boy who has the typhoid fever is thought to be better at this writing. William T. Campbell has bought the merchandise stock of Tim Powell at Amity and is moving same to Point Cedar. Charley Skates and A.L. Hawkins have bought the remainder of the Floyd Small stock of goods and have moved the post office in the same building. They have plenty of room there and not much to do except keep good fires. — C.C. Keadle

February 10, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Wife Poisoner Gets Life Imprisonment: One of the most sensational trials in the history of the county closed Monday morning when the jury returned a verdict of life imprisonment for Ed Dickson for the murder of his wife. Throughout the progress of the trial the courtroom was filled to overflowing, some of the auditors being connected with the parties concerned, but most of them being merely filled with curiosity. The case commenced last Wednesday and was turned over to the jury for deliberation about noon Saturday. Being unable to agree on a verdict before court adjourned, the verdict was not returned until Monday morning. The State’s testimony showed that Mrs. Dickson’s death was caused by strychnine poisoning and that Dickson was in love with Mrs. Claude Buck, the latter being proven by the introduction of numerous letters between Dick-son and Mrs. Buck. The defense claimed that Mrs. Dickson took the strychnine herself, being despondent over her husband’s infatuation for Mrs. Buck. Dickson’s mother testified that the defendant’s wife had been found with a pistol and searching for cartridges with suicidal intent a short time prior to her death.

February 17, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Pannell’s Barn Destroyed: Fire Put 125 Phones Out of Commission. The fire bell rang last Thursday night at about 7 o’clock for the burning of J.J. Pannell’s barn. The building and contents were valued at about $450, there being a good deal of hay and corn in the barn. Part of the loss was covered by insurance. It is not known how the fire started although it is thought that someone set it afire purposely. One unfortunate incident of the fire was the burning into one of the telephone cables. This put about 125 telephones out of commission.

Getting Ready for the Blues: Charlie Moss, the groundkeeper for the Kansas City Blues, who will train here this spring, arrived in the city Monday from Kansas City. He immediately began work on the A.U. Williams field to put it in shape for his team. While as yet little has been done, the work will be pushed to a rapid conclusion. The home plate will be about 25 yards to the east of its original position, so that the sun will be in the eyes of none of the players. The other bases will be moved accordingly. In order to make the ground usable for the big teams there will have to be made quite a change. The ground around each base and pitcher’s box is being dug out to the depth of several feet and clay is being put in its place. All over the diamond except around the bases and between them the ground will be dug up and sodded.

February 18, 1916: Malvern Times Journal

New Plan to Work the Roads: Walter W. Beaty has inaugurated a scheme to work the roads leading into Malvern. He has caused to be printed several hundred checks of $1.00 each—the name of bank to be filled in by signer and payable monthly. If enough people respond favorably he will hire a man and team and keep them busy the year round and use a split log drag on the roads after rain. The scheme is a good one and deserving of success. Mr. Beaty is one of Malvern’s most progressive citizens and is always trying to do something to build things up.

February 24, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

New Telephone Line from Arkadelphia: A new farmers’ telephone line having 10 subscribers has just been connected with the Arkadelphia Exchange of The Southwestern Telegraph and Telephone Co.  The line extends 10 miles out the Hot Springs road and furnishes service to the following well-known people: G. Cook, B. Stallings, W. Burch, J.E. Harris, O.D. Jones, S. Burch, W.H. Pennington, Tom Copeland, S.H. Montgomery, and J.W. Tuttle. The subscribers on the line are now in constant telephonic communication with each other and through the Southwestern Exchange with telephone users in Arkadelphia. The construction of this line and its connection with the telephone exchange here is another step in the progress of telephone development which is being made by the rural residents in the rural section of Clark County. Under the plan of the Southwestern Company, farmers and other rural dwellers are enabled to secure telephone service on an economical basis. As a result farmers in all sections of the state are installing telephones in their homes.

March 2, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Federal Building for Arkadelphia at Last to Be a Reality: After years of watchful waiting and hoping, the city of Arkadelphia has again had its hopes raised over the question of getting a Federal post office building. It seems that there will at last be an end to the almost endless red tape connected with the post office buildings. Postmaster Sam Carpenter received a telegram last Friday from Congressman Goodwin advising him that the government would advertise for bids on the building March 8^th, and that the contract for the building would be let on April 19^th. An appropriation by Congress of $55,000 for the construction of the building was made in February 1915, but on account of the treasury department being about 4 or 5 years behind in the post office buildings all over the country, there was no immediate prospect of the building at that time. However, it will be remembered that Captain R.W. Huie, after donating the site for the building, had the plans and specifications drawn up by architect Frank M. Blaisdell of Little Rock. By special dispensation these plans were accepted by Uncle Sam. Then followed another lull in the proceedings, and it seems as if now definite action will take place, for we are informed that the building will be completed in about eight months after the contract is let.

March 9, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Free Delivery for Arkadelphia: It seems that finally Arkadelphia is to have free city delivery of mail. For the past several years the receipts of the post office here have been large enough to entitle our city to the free delivery service, but for several and various reasons we have been denied this great convenience. Now Postmaster Carpenter has a letter advising that the free delivery service will be inaugurated on June 1^st next. The service will require three carriers, and Mr. Berryman, secretary of the board of civil service examiners for this city, is advertising for an examination to be held on March 25 to ascertain as to the most desirable persons for these positions. The qualifications are as follows: “Age limit, 18 to 45 years on the date of the examination. Married women will not be admitted to the examination. This prohibition, however, does not apply to widows. Applicants must be physically sound, and male applicants must be not less than 5 feet 4 inches in height in bare feet, and weigh not less than 125 lbs. without overcoat or hat. For application blanks and for full information relative to the examinations, qualifications, duties, salaries, vacations, promotions, etc., address immediately, Clement Berryman, Arkadelphia, Ark.”

March [10?] 1916: Malvern Times Journal

Why Malvern Has No Federal Building: An Act of Congress approved March 4, 1913, reads as follows: “That hereafter no authorization shall be made for the construction of a building to be used exclusively for post office purposes at any town or city where the postal receipts have not reached the sum of ten thousand dollars annually, nor shall any authorization for the purchase of a site for post office purposes only be made at any town or city where the postal receipts have not reached the sum of six thousand dollars annually.” Inasmuch as the postal receipts of the Malvern post office have never reached $9,000 it will be readily understood by unprejudiced people why Malvern has no Federal building. Arkadelphia post office receipts have been going over $12,000 a year for several years. The site upon which the government building in that city is to be built was donated to the government several years ago by Capt. Huie, a citizen of that town. It requires from five to fifteen years to get a Federal building into town after the bill has been passed making the appropriation—at least that is the history of these buildings. When the Malvern post office shows up an annual sale of $10,000 in postage, steps will be taken to get a Federal building here—also city free delivery. Under the law of 1913 we are not entitled to these conveniences until we meet the requirements.

March 16, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Caught Making Spurious Money: The career of a new and original counterfeiter was nipped in the bud on Tuesday when Constable Dooley arrested in our city W.B. Lyles, who had evidently just entered upon his game of making and passing the spurious coin. Lyles, who is a concrete mixer and has been much employed about our city by John Cox, had made himself a mould out of cement for a silver dollar of the year 1901, and had evidently perfected a good counterfeiting outfit as the coins which he produced would deceive most anyone except for the ring. After making himself a supply of dollars Lyles started out last Saturday to spend his easy money. Constable Dooley in tracing the course in the West End found that he bought 15 cents worth of bologna sausage from William Walters and got the change for a dollar, then spent 40 cents with Henry Austin and got the change. He tried a dollar on both the West End Market and Bennett & Brown and was turned down, but evidently succeeded in getting a whole dollar off the blind Elihu Jones, as he tried to pass one of them on Sam Carpenter. There are probably several of these dollars still in circulation about town. After arresting Lyles Tuesday morning Mr. Dooley made a search for the counterfeiting outfit and found a part of it in Lyles’ garden. The federal authorities in Little Rock have been notified of the arrest, and an officer asked to come and get the prisoner.

March 23, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

A Narrow Escape from a Runaway: On last Monday afternoon the horse hitched to the Arkadelphia Laundry wagon ray away on Clinton Street. It seems that a spring was broken on the wagon and the driver, Kingston Marbury, was making a turn in front of the laundry, when the wagon turned nearly over. This scared the horse and it began to run. It made a wide turn in front of the Caddo Hotel, nearly running down the young daughter of Paul Ohls, the child being snatched from in front of the runaway by Alfred Dukes with only about a foot to spare. The wagon was overturned on the sidewalk in front of Ohls’ store, and Marbury was pinned underneath, being dragged some distance, but he escaped with some severe bruises.

March 30, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Clark County Cotton: The amount of cotton ginned in Arkansas from the 1915 crop amounted to 789,430 bales, as compared to 999,237 bales from the crop of 1914, says the U.S. Department of Commerce. Of that amount Clark County furnished last year 8,950 bales against 11,405 bales for 1914.

April 6, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Pig Clubs Growing: That interest is beginning to awake over the county about Pig Clubs is shown by the following: During the past week Arthur Vestal shipped a fine Poland-China pig to W.T. Ewing, of Curtis. Mr. Ewing intends to give this pig to his boy as his part in one of the Pig Clubs. Thus the movement is steadily moving on.

April 13, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Work Progresses on Depot Grounds: Flowers and Shrubery Will Be Planted and Other Improvements Made

The work on the depot surroundings is rapidly being pushed on under the direction of J.S. Butterfield, the expert landscape engineer of the Iron Mountain Railroad. At present the work is of filling up gulleys, mudholes, and the triangular block west of the depot and removing of the cinders from the ground east of the depot.

The work will not be finished for two or three weeks but, when finished, will be a credit to our town and will improve the looks of the depot 100 percent.

The main improvements will be a large tract of shrubbery and flowers in the tract between the freight and passenger depot surrounded by a curb. Just back of this and parallel to the railroad will be a driveway. On the M.D. & G. lot back of the depot will be a small park. Besides these there will be a number of minor improvements which will all help to beautify the grounds.

April 20, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

House Broken Into by Novel Means: One Arrested for Burglarizing Jeff McDonald’s Store in West End

Thieves invented a novel means for breaking into the store of Jeff McDonald in the west end of town on last Thursday night. Crawling under the house they pried loose several planks of the flooring and made a hole large enough for their entrance. It was evident the next morning that a robbery had been committed, though as to exactly what and how much merchandise had been taken could not be ascertained.

The officers have one, Arthur Seawood, arrested for the crime, and are on a warm trail of several others. Seawood was arrested Sunday after a search of his premises had discovered a can of lard hidden in the loft of his house.

April 27, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Affairs of City Are Turned Over: New Aldermanic Body Assumed Control of the Government Last Thursday

At the call meeting of the city council by Mayor Kress last Thursday night to turn the city’s affairs over to Mayor-elect Allison, after closing up the old council’s account Mayor Kress gave a recapitulation of the affairs of the city for the past two years, as below: Amount of Scrip outstanding April 21^st, 1914, $12,509.42; Scrip issued past two years, $13,761.00; Total Scrip outstanding and issued, $26,260.42; Scrip redeemed in two years, $16,269.00; Scrip outstanding now, $9,991.41.  

Arkadelphia’s current Town Hall

The retiring administration also paid an old debt of $1,000 on the city park and $550 on fire hose.

Mayor Kress in retiring congratulated the retiring council upon the above statement and on their watchfulness and the economic handling of the funds; also on the several much-needed improvements. He complimented the efficient board of health on the improved sanitary condition of the city, as nearly all the business houses and the majority of the residences have sewer connections. The Mayor congratulated the council and city officials on securing the best water and light contract in the state, now giving the city the new “white way” and the residence part well-lighted streets.

Giving the city pure filtered water was described by Mr. Kress as a benefaction. In conclusion he thanked the citizens of Arkadelphia for the honor of making him mayor the past two years, and said that he would always feel a civic pride and work for the advancement of the city.

Mayor Allison swore in the new aldermen, Leslie Goodloe, H.L. Steel, A.J. Vestal, Frank Drake, W.V. Rogers, and John Hinsley. The new mayor did not appoint any committees at this meeting, but will do so at the regular meeting May 1^st.

May 4, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Teachers Elected for Public School: B.M. Mace Elected Principal to Succeed A.E. Phillips — No Other Changes

At the recent meeting of the School Board the teachers for the next term were elected. Only one change was made in the teaching staff, that being the election of B.M. Mace, Jr., as principal. At the present he has not yet announced whether he will accept the position, and for that reason no teacher has been elected to fill the position he now occupies.

The following teachers were elected although all have not accepted: B.M. Mace, Jr., principal; Dale McGee, Mrs. R.B. Thomas, Mrs. Bessie McCleish, Misses Ella Adams, Margaret Crawford, Frances Turrentine, Hazel Hardage, Eva Moore, Gussie Turrentine, Sallie Williams, Marjorie Taylor, Ruth Cazort, May Pryor, and Ethel Scott. They have not been assigned to the grades as yet, but it is probable that they will teach the same as this year. Mrs. Luther McNutt will have charge of the piano department.

May 11, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Electric Run Gin Will Be Installed: George and Rouf Hart Have Placed Order for Gin To Use the Excellent Current

Messrs. G.W. and R.P. Hart have placed their order for an up-to-date electrical gin outfit and will have the same installed in time to begin the next season’s ginning. They have been trying to obtain a satisfactory location for their plant in the city, but if they do not succeed in doing so will install same at Hartsville, near R.P. Hart’s home, where he has had a gin for many years.

The new plant will be run by electric motor and will not have any belts to contend with. It will have a capacity of forty bales per day and will cost about $4,000. In the event that the plant is located at Hartsville, the Arkansas Light & Power Co. have agreed to run the light line out there and so give them the benefit of the excellent all-time current which the city enjoys.

The Hart brothers have plans for putting in a canning factory in connection with the gin and also other factories to utilize the plant during all seasons of the year instead of only the three months during the ginning season, though as to whether these plans are to be worked out remains yet to be determined.

The old gin plant at Hartsville, which is a good 20-bale plant and will do as good service as any of the old-style boiler run gins, has been sold to Obe Thompson, who will install same at Hollywood and run it in addition to his gin at Hearn.

May 18, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Hauling Bridge Material

Quite a number of prominent citizens of Hollywood were here Monday to carry out the materials for an iron bridge across Hollywood Creek at Hollywood. They volunteered their services so as to get the bridge built quicker. Those who came in were R.L. Burton, W.E. Jordan, J.F. and Herschel Tweedle, J.N. Carter, A.L. Teague, B.W. Bridges, L.M. McAnally, and Gus Adkins.

May 25, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Never Has a Wagon Repaired

Bill Jones from out on the Caddo swapped his old wagon for a new Leudinghaus when he was in town Saturday. Mr. Jones is past sixty years old and he says that he has never yet taken a wagon to a shop for any repairs. When a wagon becomes too old to stand the load he wants to haul he has always gotten rid of that wagon and bought a new one. Mr. Jones is one of our most successful farmers.

Steel Bridges Being Erected

A steel bridge with a span of fifty feet is being erected over the Saline Bayou, on the Dalark road. The new bridge will greatly aid traffic on that road, as it eliminates one of its worst features. A firm from Vincennes, Indiana, is putting up the bridge and will also erect the one which is going in near Hollywood.

June 1, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Peaches are Ripe in Big Orchard: Large Returns Expected from Banner Crop of Red Birds This Year

The Red Bird peaches are beginning to ripen in the big Cardinal orchard two miles west of town, and within the next few days a large force of men and boys will be at work there picking and packing the fruit for shipment. The crop is said to be very fine this year, not having been damaged by frost or anything, and since the peaches will be put into the eastern markets ahead of anything, being two weeks earlier than the company marketed their crop last year, the price they will bring will reach the top notch. Many of the boys began picking in earnest out there this morning.

June 8, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Free Delivery of Mail Has Begun: Carriers’ Routes Not Mapped Yet Because Inspector Has Not Arrived

In accordance with the promise made the people of this city, free delivery of mail was begun last Thursday, Robert Moorehead, Edwin Dews, and Morris Agricola being the carriers, with Harvey Moore as substitute. On account of the inspector not yet having arrived who was to map out the town into routes, the routes are not yet clearly outlined. However, the inspector will be here soon and then more system will be acquired by Uncle Sam’s representatives in this city.

June 15, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Arrested His Man Year After Crime: Jim Lavin of Gurdon Brought Back From California, Indicted on Three Counts

Sheriff Roy Golden arrived home last Thursday with Jim Lavin in charge, whom he arrested at Bakersfield, California, after tracing him for ten days. Lavin, who formerly lived at Gurdon, was indicted more than a year ago on three counts of grand larceny and robbery, and the sheriff has been trying to locate him since he left here at that time.

Lavin is said to have robbed boxcars of freight at Gurdon, and it is said that he proceeded in an unusual way. After getting on the train he is said to have crawled into the box car through the little top door at the end, and, after the train pulled out, to have thrown the stuff out and then went back and got it.

June 22, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Gurdon Will Have Its Streets Oiled: Important Advancement Which Has Long Been Needed in Arkadelphia Also

—Gurdon Times. The businessmen and citizens are raising money to oil ten or more blocks in the business section of the city. Mayor Cooper and R.C. Childs, chairman of the street committee, and other aldermen, have arranged for the city government to bear the expense of applying the oil on the streets on its arrival.

This is a good step in the right direction, as our streets need oil to put an end to the dust nuisance. Later on another car of oil may be purchased by popular subscription for oiling the streets of the residence section of town. —Gurdon Times

And yet the progressive city of Arkadelphia continues with the water wagon. Certainly, if sprinkling the streets is necessary at all, oil is the thing to use.

June 29, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Company Bid Adieu by a Large Crowd: Arkadelphia Company Under Command of Captain McAlister Left Tuesday

More than a thousand of the citizens of the town were at the depot Tuesday morning to bid adieu the members of Company C, First Arkansas Infantry, Arkansas National Guards, who took the train for Little Rock to be mustered in for service on the Mexican frontier. Not since the Arkadelphia company left for service in the Spanish-American War has there been such a crowd assembled at the depot, and not since then has there been such a universal display of sentiment in our city. We were proud to see our noble lads starting bravely off to the defense of their country, and yet none were there but what was gravely impressed with the seriousness of the occasion.

It was indeed a fine looking body of young men and considering that a week before there were only about fifteen members of the company who had reported here for service, it was surprising that the number entrained amounted to seventy-three. Many members of the company were to report after the company reached Little Rock and it is safe to estimate that the company will be mustered into service with eighty sound and accepted men.

We had hoped to publish a roster of the company but will have to defer publishing same until a list of non-commissioned officers is furnished as appointed by the captain. The company was in the charge of Captain H.L. McAlister, and he is ably assisted by First Lieutenant Ed Shugart and Second Lieutenant John Abraham. Captain McAlister requests that the friends of the boys write to them often and until further notice address them in care of “Company C, First Ark. Inf., A.N.G., Little Rock, Arkansas.”

July 7, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Skeleton Found in Plowed Field: Tobe Peeples Brings to Town Teeth of Man Who Was Evidently of Large Size

Tobe Peeples, returning from a visit to his brother, Gibbs, who lives out on the old home place where Mr. Peeples’ father lived more than sixty years ago, brought back with him an enormous sized set of teeth which his brother plowed up in the field. Part of the jaw bone was attached to the teeth, and from this and from the fact that parts of a skeleton were also plowed up, it was decided that the teeth belonged to some human being. They had evidently been buried there for many a long year, and the person to whom they belonged was certainly of an enormous size.

July 13, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Number Unchanged in the Pension List: New Applications in Clark County Offset Number of Those Who Have Died

The Clark County Pension Board, composed of Captain C.C. Scott, John T. Lee and L.J. Weber, was in session at the courthouse this week and considered applications for new Confederate pensions in the county. There were fifteen new applications passed on and approved, two applications for increase were approved, and four widows were enrolled whose husbands have died within the past year.

County Clerk Williams’ records show that besides the four Confederate veterans who left widow, fourteen pensioners have died within the past year, and one widow who was drawing a pension has married. There are now a total of 261 pensioners on the records.

Under the law passed by the last legislature, it is now required that each pensioner each year file with the county clerk an affidavit showing that he or she does not possess more than $500 of property in addition to a homestead. County Clerk Williams advises that as yet several have failed to file such affidavit with him, and he requests that they do so before he makes his report to the state board. If for any reason they did not receive the blank affidavit which he sent out to all the pensioners or have lost same he requests that they notify him and he will send them another blank. The pension checks will be mailed out about September 1.

July 20, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Ed Dixon Escapes From Penitentiary: Life Termer Sent Up from Clark County Makes His Clean Get-Away

The penitentiary officials have announced that on Wednesday of last week Ed Dixon, who was sent to the penitentiary for life from this county upon conviction for the murder of his wife, escaped with another prisoner from the Tucker convict farm, and as yet there has been no report of his apprehension or as to his whereabouts.

The penitentiary officials gave out the information that since Dixon has been in the pen he has carried on a regular correspondence with Mrs. Claud Buck, a young married woman of this city, who was indicted at the same time with Dixon as an accessory to the murder. Mrs. Buck was not tried at the last term of court, and is now out on bond. From last reports she was at Gum Springs.

July 27, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Will Renovate Offices

The Arkadelphia Milling Company has awarded a contract to Myal Greene for the painting and repapering of their office building. This will be another help to the beautifying of that section of the city and will be in keeping with the work done around the depot.

Carload of Horses and Mules

On or about August 1 we will have to arrive in the city a carload of fine mares and mules, which we will offer for sale or trade. —Greene & Meador

August 3, 2016: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Dalark Young Man Falls from Auto: Trying to See if Tail Light was Burning, Slips Off Running Board of the Car

Last Saturday night Lide Goza of Dalark was thrown from an auto near the edge of town and severely bruised up. He had been to Amity with the Dalark baseball team and they were returning in cars. Just before coming into town he got out on the running board to see if the tail light of the car was on. His spiked shoes slipped and he was thrown from the car which was going at a good rate. He received no serious injuries though for a while it was thought he had. Goza is fairly well-known here as the first baseman of the State Normal team, which took a series from the Ouachita team here in the spring.

August 10, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Signs on Hot Springs Road

R.W. Huie, Jr., Chick McDaniel, and Sam O’Baugh left Tuesday morning in Bob’s car for Hot Springs by way of the mountain route through Bismarck, and measured off the distance and put up signs along the entire way. The signs will indicate so many miles to the Caddo Hotel, and are put especially at the road crossings where a traveler is more liable to lose the way. The accuracy as to the distances was measured by a speedometer.

Paving District Ordinance Passed: Among Other Matters of Importance was

Decision to Buy Auto Fire Truck

Perhaps the most important matter brought before the city council for the past several years was the petition presented at the regular meeting on Monday night by residents living on Pine and North Sixth streets asking that an ordinance be passed to create a street improvement district for the purpose of paving Pine Street and North Sixth Street. The ordinance was passed by the council which is the first step towards creating the improvement district. This district will include all of Pine Street from the Dougald McMillan residence to the McDonald store, and Sixth Street from Caddo Street to the E.W. Thomas residence. The details as to the kind of material for the paving, etc., is left to the board of commissioner which will be appointed.

Another matter of great importance was the decision to buy a combination fire auto truck. A committee consisting of Aldermen Goodloe, Rogers, and Hulsey, and Fire Chief Greene was appointed to buy a fire truck.

A resolution was passed to sell the city’s gravel pit lot on South Sixth Street to J.B. Brown for $450 worth of graveling and work on the streets.

An ordinance was passed making it unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to store or keep hay in any building within the fire district of the city.

W. D. Cook was appointed night watchman to succeed George Frances. The street commissioner was dispensed with, and motions were carried that sidewalks be ordered built on Clinton Street and that the city attorney be requested to prepare an ordinance to require that jitney drivers be placed under bond.

A New Car in Town

The editor, accompanied by his wife, went to Little Rock last Saturday and came back in a new 1917 model Metz touring car, for which he has the agency for this county, and which car he is using as a demonstrator as to the especial advantages of a Metz. The pulling qualities of the car were fully tested on the trip home as there had been a heavy rain just before us all the way, and part of the time we were in it, and the roads were worse than we have ever seen them. Before you buy an automobile you will be sorry if you fail to examine the Metz.

August 17, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Find No Electricity is Discomfort

All Monday morning Arkadelphia was without electricity and there was a noticeable shortage of water. A tree had fallen on the wires between here and Malvern Sunday night causing a break in the current. This caused discomfort to many electric fan owners, making them think the day was hotter than it really was. The water shortage was caused by the inability of the pumps to run without electricity.

August 24, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Old Ouachita Boy Has Bright Future

For several years Hamilton Moses, now Assistant Attorney General of Arkansas, was a student of Ouachita College, where he graduated with high honors. During most of his vacations of those years he was in college here he spent in our city and became as popular among the citizens as among the college students where he was voted the most popular student in school. So we are sure that many of our readers would join us in offering congratulations to Moses for the unusual good success which he is meeting with in his connection with the attorney general’s office.

Having charge of the preparing of briefs in cases appealed to the Supreme Court it is to his credit that out of seventy decided by the Supreme Court since he has been assistant there were only two of these cases decided against him. Chief Justice McCulloch recently took occasion from the bench to compliment the attorney general and his associates for the able briefs that had been submitted and for the promptness with which their business was handled before the Supreme Court. We yet look for bigger things from Moses.

Contract for Year Supply

The Ouachita College, Baptist Church, and Arkadelphia steam laundry have discontinued the use of gas and re-arranged their furnaces for wood fuel and have contracted with the Arkadelphia Milling Company for their requirements for twelve months. After making comparative tests, they find the quality of wood they are using to be considerably cheaper than gas or any other fuel.

First Bale of Cotton

Elijah Wright of Manchester Township brought in the first bale of new crop cotton Tuesday and sold the bale to Smoker Mer-chandise Company. The cotton and seed brought Elijah $113.75.

August 31, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Large Delegations to Assemble Here: At Noon Today Representatives from Many Cities will Meet at Court House

At noon today there will be a meeting at the courthouse in our city of representative citizens of Arkadelphia, Hope, El Dorado, Camden, Benton, Gurdon, Prescott, Hot Springs, and Little Rock, to perfect plans for raising funds to make a survey of the Ouachita River to determine the available horsepower of the stream. The survey will be made to ascertain whether the stream has sufficient horsepower to be considered as a site for the $20,000,000 government nitrate plant.

Government engineers say that the stream on which the plant will be located must have an available flow of 100,000 horsepower. The Ouachita is accredited with 105,000 horse-power, but a new survey will be necessary to be used as an argument with government officials who will select the site for the plant.

As representatives for Arkadelphia at the meeting to be held here today, Mayor Allison has named the following citizens: W.N. Adams, J.D. Townsend, E.M. Hall, F.J. Carpenter, Steve Smith, John McMillan, J.E. Callaway, Charles M. Clark, H.C. Couch, Neil Sloan, J.J. Kress, Stan C. Harley, and T.T. Rudolph.

September 7: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

City Council Holds September Meeting: Jitney Drivers Placed Under $1000 Bond, Must Cut Your Weeds or Pay a Fine

The city council met last Monday night in its regular meeting in the new quarters back of McMillan & McMillan’s office. Three ordinances were passed. Several hot debates were waged.

The first ordinance passed was one to place the jitney drivers under a $1000 bond. The second one passed was one prohibiting persons under 16 years to drive an automobile on the streets of the city. The third ordinance and the one most discussed was the one requiring everyone to cut the weeds on their premises.

A bill was passed to hold up pay of the water company this month on account of the low water pressure at the last two fires. A bill was passed to pay Spence Hearn $6 which was due him for feeding one of the prisoners. This matter was not clearly understood and brought forth a big discussion.

A plan was adopted to put concrete crossings at all street crossings in the city.

September 14, 2016: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Two New Elevators Will Be Erected: Additions to Arkadelphia Milling Company’s Plant Will Give Greater Capacity

The Arkadelphia Milling Company has awarded a contract to H.F. Doyle of Cotton Plant for the construction of two concrete grain elevators to adjoin their present buildings. These elevators will be 85 feet high and will contain eleven bins 75 feet high and 20 feet in diameter, which will have a storage capacity of 160,000 bushels.

The elevators will be fireproof and will not have a stick of wood in them. The rate of insurance on the contents will be only $1 per $1,000. The work will be started in about two weeks, and will be completed in about seven months. The contract was awarded for $15,000 and the machinery will cost $5,000. Mr. Doyle is also the contractor of the new post office building now under construction here.

September 21, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Public Schools to Open Next Tuesday: Teachers are Assigned to Their Classes—No Formal Exercises to Attend the Opening

The public schools of Arkadelphia will open Tuesday morning, September 26 at 8:30 o’clock. No formal exercises will attend the opening. The first exercise to which the public is invited to attend will be held in the auditorium at 9 o’clock Thursday morning.

The high school teachers will be at the building Saturday and Monday (hours 10 to 12 and 2 to 4) to assist the students in selecting their courses. High school students who register before the opening will be excused as soon as lessons are assigned and announcements made Tuesday morning. Examinations for new students and those who wish credit for summer work will begin at 9:30 and close at 3:30.

In selecting their course of study high school students may be guided by the following suggestions: Only the very strongest students should take as many as five studies—the teachers will be guided by the pupil’s record. Only the strongest students should take more than three regular studies with one or more specials. Unless he or she carries a special, every pupil is expected to take four regular studies. All students are expected to elect English as one of their studies and every eighth grade pupil is expected to take general science.

All seventh grade pupils (this year’s class) may assemble in the room formerly occupied by Mrs. McCleish (southwest room, second floor), sixth grade pupils in the room formerly occupied by Miss Adams (northeast room, second floor), fifth grade in Miss Taylor’s room, fourth grade in Miss Hardage’s room, third grade in Miss Williams’ room, second grade in room formerly occupied by Miss Pryor, and first grade in Miss Cazort’s room.

The assignment of teachers will be as follows: Miss Frances Turrentine, Study Hall; Miss Ella Adams, English; John Guy Fowlkes, Mathe-matics; Miss Margaret Crawford, Latin; Sam M. Clark, Science; Mrs. R.B. Thomas, History; Miss Sallie Crenshaw, A and B Seventh; Miss Eva Moore, C Seventh and A Sixth; Miss Gussie Turrentine, B and C Sixth; Miss Marjorie Taylor, A and B Fifth; Miss Ruth Scott, C Fifth and A Fourth; Miss Hazel Hardage, B. and C Fourth; Miss Sallie Williams, A and B Third; Miss Anna Bess Flanagin, C Third and A Second; Miss Ruth Cazort, B and C First; H.A. Woodward, Superintendent.

All the teachers are expected to meet with the superintendent in the study hall at 3 o’clock Monday afternoon.

September 28, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Two Fires This Week

The local fire department was called out twice during the past week. On Tuesday after-noon it was called to put out a grass fire in the back yard of Captain C.C. Scott’s residence which was rapidly gaining headway and threatening the house.

Early yesterday morning it was called to Hill Crest, the house of Mr. Hammonds being on fire. It was impossible to save the house as no water plug was near enough to make connections.

This run to Sweet Hill was remarkable compared to others made in the past. It was only about eight minutes from the first tap of the fire bell to the time they reached the fire.

The new auto truck is expected to arrive next week.

Merchants Install Electric Clocks: Accurate Time Will be Furnished by Telegraphic Connection with Washington

L. Walker of Dallas, Texas, a representative of the Western Union Telegraph Company, was here this week getting contracts and laying wire for electric clocks which will be installed in several of the local business houses. A time service plant will be installed at the depot which will give the clocks the correct time as it is flashed over the telegraph wires from Washington, D.C.  Mr. Walker said he hoped to have the clocks installed and running by the 10^th of October.

The ten business houses which will have these clocks are as follows: Royal Theatre, Clark-Sloan Drug Store, Elk Horn Bank, Citizens Bank, M.C. Butler Newsstand, Caddo Hotel, Faulkner & Pace Poolroom, Heard-Townsend Drug Store, McPherson Hotel, and Arkadelphia Milling Company.

October 5, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

More Gasoline Tanks

C.D. Gregory has a contract with the Waters Pierce Oil Company to move their oil tank from the crossing below the station to the crossing above, near the United Oil Mill plant, and to erect two plants there in addition. One of the tanks will have a 12,000 gallon capacity and the other two 6,000 gallons each. It is supposed that two of these tanks will be used for gasoline and the other for coal oil.

Prosperous Times in the Old Town: High-Priced Cotton Puts Plenty of Money In General Circulation

Fifteen-cent cotton and the gathering of the crop all at once is making things hum around here in the business affairs this fall. The local cotton market has been unusually good, the many competitive buyers having been paying the very top market price for the staple, and often more than the quoted price, and as a consequence cotton has been hauled into the town faster and in larger quantities than for many years past.

Much of the cotton has been shipped without passing through the Farmers Union Warehouse, but the receipts of the warehouse up to last Saturday night show four times as many bales for the same time in any previous year.

Most of the farmers are selling their cotton and are paying old debts with the cash they are getting. This gives a good circulation of money, which helps the whole community.

October 12, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Capt. Marshall Sees Dam Sites: River Boosters from Here and Malvern Motored Up Ouachita Last Saturday

An automobile party, composed of Captain H.M. Marshall, assistant engineer of the Vicksburg department, of Vicksburg, and H.C. Couch, W.H. Allison, N.D. Huie, and F.J. Carpenter, of this city, left here Saturday morning on a trip up the Ouachita for the purpose of showing Capt. Marshall the possible sites for the dam which may be placed on the river above here.

At Malvern they were joined by about thirty more enthusiasts, and they motored to the two sites above Malvern. Capt. Marshall was very much impressed with the sites. The party returned Saturday evening and Capt. Marshall went on to Hot Springs to meet the boosters of that city.

Bell Sanitarium Changes Hands: Drs. Rowland and Doane Leased Institution for Five Years—Will Not Move Offices

A business deal of importance was transacted in this city last Thursday when Drs. Rowland and Doane leased the Bell Sanitarium on Main Street for a period of 5 years. They took possession at once.

The sanitarium will be open to other doctors’ patients as well as their own. Miss Gilberta Harris will have charge of the sanitarium temporarily. Miss Leola Smith will be the nurse.

Dr. Bell will move his office but Dr. Amis will remain where he is. Dr. Rowland announced that his and Dr. Doane’s offices would not be changed. The sanitarium will be known as the Rowland and Doane Sanitorium. Miss Euna Wilson of Gurdon was operated on there yesterday for appendicitis.

Automobile Wedding

Mr. J.M. Wilson of this city and Mrs. Lauda Harbin of Womble were married here Sunday by Dr. N.R. Townsend. The ceremony was performed in Dr. Townsend’s car in front of the home of Joe Becker of this city. Mr. Wilson is at present employed in the Star barber shop, having recently come here from Gurdon. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson will reside in this city.

October 19, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

A Destructive Wind

The wind played havoc with several residences in the west end of town Sunday night at about eight o’clock, and within in a small radius did almost as much damage as a young cyclone. A large number of trees were blown down and in some sections a large amount of hail fell.

A Competent Woodworker

The amount of wood work at Lee Pannell’s blacksmith shop has increased so much that he found it necessary to get a woodworker connected with him there, and he has succeeded in obtaining as an assistant T.A. Harrell, the master wood workman of this whole community. Anyone who has ever had Mr. Harrell turn out any woodwork for him knows that he is capable and efficient. His work bears the closest inspection and there is no kind of woodwork that he doesn’t know exactly how to do. In the meantime Lee is kept busy shoeing horses and doing other blacksmith work as only he knows how to do it.

October 26, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Hill Crest Residence Burned

The residence and household goods of Bill Hanson of Hill Crest, were burned late last Sunday night by a fire of unknown origin. Mr. Hanson says that he and his family just did escape from the house and saved only one trunk. The loss was about $3,500, with only a small amount of insurance.

Notice to Auto Owners

Notice is hereby given to auto owners that the city traffic ordinance will be rigidly enforced, and that the new city marshal, Carl Thompson, will arrest all drivers who violate the law, either as to speeding, honking, or driving to the right. —W.H. Allison, Mayor

November 2, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Farm Demonstrator Retained in County: Clark County Quorum Court Met in Annual Session with only One Member Absent

Perhaps the most important matter accomplished by the Clark County Quorum Court in session here last week was the making of appropriations for the continuation of the farm demonstration work in the county. Appropriations were made of $1,080 for the farm demonstrator and $750 for the canning club agent, and a resolution was adopted to the effect that Mr. Ferguson and Miss Weaver be retained in this county.

It is interesting to note that in the final vote on the appropriation for the farm demonstrator there were only two who voted against it, they being I.D. Ellis of Anderson Township and Asa Townsend of this city, the latter having objected because the demonstrator happened to be a man from Mississippi.

At this session appropriations were made for six new steel bridges in different parts of the county.

No bridge was refused to any justice of the peace who asked for it, and for the most of them, the appropriations were passed unanimously.

The following resolution, unanimously adopted, was requested to be published: “Whereas, Mr. A.E. Ferguson, the Farm Demonstrator, and Miss Mamie Weaver, the Canning Club Agent, came among the people of Clark County absolute strangers the first of this year, and by their Christian conduct and upright demeanor, coupled with their energy and educated efforts, have demonstrated to the people of Clark County the necessity of retaining their valuable services in their respective phases for the ensuing year; therefore be it Resolved by the Clark County Levying Court at the 1916 session that it recommend that the citizens of this county use these two in every way connected with their calling, and that they be received into the homes and hearts of the citizenship of this county to the extent that when they depart they can realize that it was good for them to have come among us.”

The court was presided over by Judge Stan C. Harley, an there were present the following justices of the peace: S.C. Yarbrough, W.D. Dillard, J.W. Still, N.T. Holcomb, H.T. Ross, Runo Cargile, I.D. Ellis, H.C. Stroud, G.T. Cary, H.S. Nelson, Asa Townsend, J.L. Bozeman, R.P. Phillips, Tom Baber, Frank Hughes, John Teague, T.A. Francis, George H. Grayson, Jesse D. Bailey, J.C. Hunter, W.H. Hudson, E.T. Haynie, J.R. Carter, Jake Wingfield, H.C. Meeks, J.F. Hart, W.M. Pringle, and John G. Jordan. The only one absent was M.B. Dozier of Gurdon, who was reported as sick.

The following appropriations were made: Circuit Court–$8,000; County and Probate Courts–$2,000; Magistrates’ Courts–$600; Keeping Prisoners–$3,500; Assessments and Tax Books–$1,200; Public Records–$350; Keeping Paupers–$2,500; Roads and Bridges–$1,000; County Expense–$2,500; Public Buildings–$200; Farm Demonstration–$1,080; Home Demonstration–$750; Expense of Farm Demonstrator–$100; Wolf and Wild Cat Scalps–$100; Repair on County Jail–$1,000; Colored Club Agent–$100; Six Steel Bridges–$600.

The six steel bridges are to be erected over the following streams: Little Missouri, one and a half miles south of Whelen Springs at the Smith Ford; Bear Creek, on Rome and Okolona Road; South Fork Creek, on Gurdon and Okolona Road; Terre Noir Creek, at Cypress Ford; and two over McNeeley Creek in Beirne Township.

The following taxes were levied on all personal and real estate property: State General, 2¼ mills; State School, 3 mills; Confederate Pension, 2 mills; State Capitol, 1/8 mills; County General, 5 mills; Public Roads, 3 mills; City of Arkadelphia, 5 mills; City of Gurdon, 5 mills; City of Amity, 4 mills; City of Okolona, 5 mills; Terre Noir Drainage District No. 3, to pay balance of indebtedness of said district, 12 mills.

November 9, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Another Accident Narrowly Averted: Jitney Carrying Fire Chief to Supposed Fire Hits Horse and Runs into Ditch

Considerable excitement was caused in our city about 8 o’clock last Friday night when a bonfire was made on the vacant lot at the corner of 12^th and Caddo streets, and a genuine fire alarm was given to try out the new auto fire truck just delivered to the city. The truck with several firemen, go to the scene in about five minutes, but everyone else was hurrying to the same place and in the rush a serious accident was narrowly averted. Fire Chief Greene, having missed the fire truck, secured the services of Ike Dawson to take him to the fire and in going down Main Street Ike ran into the horse driven to a buggy by Miss Rutledge, who was going fast across Main on 9^th Street. Only the horse was slightly injured though Ike’s jitney was turned over into the ditch.

It is requested that hereafter when there is a fire that every vehicle be drawn to the right side of the street so as to let the fire truck by. The fire truck has the right of way in time of fire.

November 16, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Work Resumed on Post Office

Work has been resumed on the erection of the post office building in our city, after a suspension of a month or so on account of a lack of stone. The contract specified the use of Batesville stone, but when it was ascertained that the Batesville stone is brown a delay was necessary until the government officials could pass upon a white stone which was required for the building. A Georgia stone was decided on.

The work will now be pushed until the building is completed, and it is hoped that there will be no more occasions for delay.

Burglars Steal $240 from Store: Break Into Store of J.W. McCleish & Son At Gum Springs in a Mysterious Manner

 The store of J.W. McCleish & Son at Gum Springs was robbed on last Thursday night and $170 of the store’s money and $70 of the post office money was stolen. Mr. McCleish, who is the postmaster, was off on a camp hunt near Princeton, Dallas County, and on being notified, rushed home to ascertain the facts.

It seems that entrance to the store was made through a door on which there is a good lock with only two keys, one of which was carried by Mr. McCleish and the other by Shaw, his son, and it is thought that someone must have had a duplicate key to the lock or a skeleton. The only clue to the perpetrators of the crime is the fact that a dog was found locked up in the store the next morning.

November 23, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Office Building of Standard Collapses: East Wall After Being Undermined by Rainfalls Causing Considerable Damage

The Southern Standard outfit happened to a serious calamity early yesterday morning when the whole east side of the office building collapsed and let that side of the roof fall. The thing fortunately happened at about six o’clock, before the force had gone to work and so no one was injured.

Ever since the big frame building was torn away we had been under apprehensions as to the safety of the wall, but it seemed to have settled until the rain on Tuesday night which evidently undermined the foundation.

The damage to the building and outfit will amount to a considerable sum and in the meantime we are unable to use our presses which are underneath the debris. Our friend, Philip McCorkle of the Siftings Herald, has kindly offered the use of his press on which to print our paper and we will not be delayed one issue in getting our outfit straightened out. We have moved into the Huddleston building three doors west.

November 30, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

D.A.R. Charter Closes

The charter membership of the Arkadelphia Chapter, D.A.R., is now closed and the membership is limited.

All invitations which were extended by the Organizing Regent, Mrs. Dougald McMillan, are now withdrawn. Those who wish to have their names added to the “waiting list” must be invited by other members of the chapter, and their names must be voted on according to the constitution.

December 7, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Which Team Has It?

We see in the Benton Courier that the Benton High School football team claims the state championship because it did not lose a game and was unable to secure a return game with Arkadelphia. The local team tried to get another game with Benton for Thanksgiving morning, but it was refused. Although the score was tied in the Arkadelphia-Benton game, the Rules Committee of the Athletic Association will probably rule the game in Arkadelphia’s favor.

New Post Office Progressing

Work on the new post office building is rapidly progressing. A 12-inch concrete floor has been laid and the framework of the building is being worked on. Several cars of stone have arrived, and work will not be stopped soon on account of the shortage of material.

December 14, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Farming Well Advanced

Our farmers are taking advantage of the excellent weather conditions we have been enjoying to put their land in preparation for another year’s crop. J.M. Neal, who has a fine black land farm down in Richwoods, remarked when he was in Monday, that his farm work was further advanced no than ever before during the years he has been farming. All his land has been broken and the boll weevil exposed to the inclement weather of winter.

December 21, 1916: Arkadelphia Southern Standard

Many Turkeys Being Shipped

During the past week Hudgens & Davidson of Hollywood have shipped 182 turkeys to the Little Rock market, which they bought from the country surrounding Hollywood. T.H. Adams & Co. of this city and other buyers have also been shipping turkeys, which at the rather high prices paid has put considerable money in circulation among our farmers.

Horse Broke Shoulder

The horse driven by Mr. Shepherd, who lives at Wayside, was frightened by an auto on Main Street Thursday afternoon and started running away. As it turned into Seventh Street the wheel of the buggy hit another car, overturning both horse and buggy. Although Mr. Shepherd escaped with minor bruises, the horse’s shoulder was broken and it was necessary to kill it.

More Cotton Ginned

The ginner’s report for Clark County shows that up to December 1, 1916, there were ginned in the county 11,796 bales of cotton as compared with 8,391 bales up the same time last year.

1917

January 4, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Two Brick Plants Merge

A real estate transaction of unusual importance took place in Malvern this week, when the Arkansas Brick and Tile Company purchased from T.N. Atchinson his brick plant at Perla.

The transfer of the property included besides the brick plant, a dwelling and 58 acres of clay land, and the consideration was $20,000. This is one of the most important transactions to have been made in this city for some time, and the deal has been pending for several weeks.

Mr. Atchinson has conducted a successful business of his plant at Perla for the past 20 years and had built up one of the biggest concerns of its kind in the state. The Arkansas Brick and Tile Company, since its re-organization several months ago, has rapidly grown and its business has been entirely satisfactory to the stockholders. The merging of the two plants means more business, and a widening out of the activities of the company.  

It is said the company will make many improvements in the plant, both at Perla and in this city, and will go after big business. We predict for them and immense business for the coming year. Mr. Atchinson will continue to manage the Perla plant, and with the success he has already made, it goes without saying that the business of this concern will also continue to improve.

January 18, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Grand Opening of the Elite

Malvern’s new amusement place, the “Elite,” opened yesterday afternoon and proved to the public to be an amusement place out of the ordinary, and one of the nicest places of its kind in the state. The proprietors Messrs. Day and Stell deserve much credit for the manner in which the opening was conducted, and the delightful entertainment and refreshments served. About 75 ladies, and more gentlemen, attended the opening of the new place between the hours of 2 and 8 p.m., and all enjoyed the evening to the fullest. A delightful program was rendered besides music of the Orchestrion. Miss McCray rendered several instrumental solos, and Mrs. Cecil Baker charmed the visitors with her ever-popular whistling productions. The Elite measured up to the expectations of the public, and from all indications will be a very popular resort for Malvern pleasure seekers.

January 25, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Thieves Enter Two Places

A good haul was made by thieves last night operating on Main Street, when they entered the Fair Store and J.H. Shuffield’s restaurant and secured about $23 in money, two boys’ suits of clothes, and three pairs of shoes.

Night marshal Billy Roberson and Ed Gray Thrasher this morning about 11 o’clock, arrested two boys, about 14 and 13 years old, who gave their names as John Bishop and Isaac Green. According to Mr. Roberson, the Bishop boy has admitted breaking into the Fair Store.

At the Fair Store, the entrance was made by reaching through a broken window pane at a rear window. Mr. Harrison, manager of the Fair Store, states that while he has not made a thorough examination, all that is missed so far is two boys’ suits of clothes, two pairs of men’s shoes, and three dollars, which was taken out of the cash register.

At the Shuffield restaurant, the entrance was made at a rear door by prizing the same open with some instrument. $20 was removed from the cash register and nothing else was molested. The robbery was discovered this morning when he opened the restaurant for business.

The report that the store of G.A. Chamberlain & Company was among those entered was an error, as Mr. Park Chamberlain states, that so far as can be ascertained, no effort was made to enter his place of business.

No time has been set for a hearing of the boys arrested. It has been stated by many citizens that the street lights were not burning last night.

February 1, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Says Oil Prospects Are Very Good

A.M. McCallum of Gifford was a visitor in Malvern this morning. Mr. McCallum speaks very favorably of the oil well being dug by Taylor Henson of this city, near Gifford. He says that experts who have been on the ground recently declare that the drillers have reached oil dirt, and they believe it will only be a short time until more favorable signs of oil will be seen. It is not known just how far the drilling has progressed and reports differ as to the depth of the well. The work is going steadily on, however, and the promoters seem satisfied with the progress made thus far.

Has Taylor Henson Struck Oil?

J.Q. Rogers visited Taylor Henson’s “Oil Well” this afternoon and returned with a specimen which was taken from the well. After being allowed to settle for a few minutes, the oil or a substance that very much resembles it, can easily be detected. He also brought some of the mud which came out of the well, and the indications are that it came from an oily region. Those interested in the matter might investigate and see for themselves, as we don’t claim to be an oil expert.

February 8, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

New Telephone Directories Delivered

The new directory of Southwestern Bell Telephone Company has been delivered to the subscribers in Malvern by manager O.F. Jones. The new directory is attractive in appearance and contains all the changes and corrections in listings that have been made since the last directory was printed.

The number of the new names appearing in the list would indicate that there are constant additions to the number of subscribers in Malvern and vicinity, and the telephone development is continuous.

The Southwestern Bell Telephone Company has evolved a plan whereby it furnishes telephone service to farmers and other rural residents on an economic basis. As a result the telephone is now the rule, rather than the exception, on the farm and farmers in all sections of the state are installing telephones in their homes. The plant of the Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in Malvern is maintained at a high state of efficiency and the subscribers are well satisfied with the service they are securing.

February 15, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Malvern Wins Water Works Case in Arkansas Supreme Court

The Supreme Court reversed City of Malvern vs. J.B. Nunn et al., in suit brought by appellees to enjoin the City Council from proceeding further in promotion of water works and improvement district. The decree is reversed and the cause remanded with instructions to dismiss the bill. The Court finds that the necessary majority in value would be $196,626. The following amounts should be deducted from the petitions presented to the Council: Deeds not recorded June 23, 1916 $7,700; and illegal unwarranted signatures, $12,512.50. Deducting these amounts from the total signed for the water works leaves a balance of $198,970.50 or $2,281 more than necessary majority and deducting from amount signed for Sewer District leaves $198,307.50 or $1681.50 more than necessary majority. The Court therefore holds: “More than a majority in value of the property owners in each District having signed the petitions for the organization thereof injunction will not lie to restrain the City and Commissioners from taking further proceedings either in the organization of said Districts or the construction of said improvements.”

The Water and Sewer Commissioners, who were appointed by the Council, and who had already started on the work when enjoined, are G.E. Mattison, Dr. E.T. Bramlett, and Emmett Nunn. Under the decision of the Supreme Court, the acts of these commissioners are legal, and they will at once proceed with the work. The Commissioners will immediately advertise for bids, and just as soon as received, the new contract will be let, and actual work on the construction of the system will be started.

The water works and sewerage districts were organized in the city last March and commissioners appointed to proceed with the work of installing a system for the city.

In opposition to this, certain taxpayers, contending that the city did not have the signatures of a majority of the owners of real property within the improvement districts to entitle them to make the improvement, filed an injunction suit to restrain the commissioners from proceeding with the work. This suit was filed in the month of July 1916, Hot Spring County Chancery Court.

On December 4, the case was tried in this city, before Chancellor Henderson, who upheld the petitions. In rendering the decision in opposition to the commissioners the Chancery Court decided that the petition lacked $5,502.50 of having a majority of the valuation of real property in the districts, and in part, based his ruling on the following points: That a person who acquires property by descent is not capable of signing, because he has no deed of record; that guardians, even where sanctioned by the Probate Court, could not sign for these improvements for their wards; that property owners who failed to have their deeds recorded at the time the City Council passed on said petition or since, could not be counted in favor of the improvements. These were the principal questions in the decision of the case.

From this decision the city and commissioners appealed to the Supreme Court of Arkansas, and the decision handed down today upholds the city and the Water Works Commissioners, and means that they may proceed with the work.

February 15, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

City to Prepare for Mail Delivery

The call meeting of the City Council was well attended last night, all aldermen with the exception of Alderman Goodman being present. The most important action of the Council was the adoption of a motion to cooperate in every way possible with the Post Office Department in regard to obtaining free village mail delivery for Malvern. The petition was presented to the Council by a letter from Postmaster Claude Mann and a letter from the Fourth Assistant Postmaster stating that an inspector would be sent here very soon to take the matter of free delivery up with the city.

The matter was referred to the Street Committee with instructions to have placed on all streets, and to give out numbers to the residents, who would place the numbers given on their respective houses. It will be the duty of the citizens to place the numbers on their houses, but the city will place the names on the streets. This matter will be attended to at once, in order that all will be ready when the postoffice inspector arrives.

The Council adopted a motion authorizing the Street Committee to open up Highland Avenue, about 100 yards west. Other proceedings of the Council were as follows: Reports of City officials read and approved. Monthly bills read, allowed, and ordered paid.

The committee on the White Way made a partial report and were given more time. The committee is of the opinion that $20 per month can be raised by contributions, and it is expected that the City will pay the balance of $20 per month, which will enable the Light Company to continue the service. The committee will begin work at once among the business men in an effort to raise the required amount. The White Way has been running for the past two months, and is now running at the expense of the Company.

The Cemetery Committee made a report, and asked that they be authorized to employ a sexton full time, until the cemetery is placed in good shape. The request was granted.

The Water and Sewer District commissioners reported that a report would be ready for the Council at its next meeting on March 5^th.

February 22, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

The New Road to Jack Mountain

The new road is underway of construction near Sanders, will leave the Arkadelphia and Hot Springs Road at the Collie School House, and intersect the Hot Springs driveway 9½ miles southwest of Hot Springs. This new road will open up to tourists and sightseers one of the most picturesque driveways in the Sunny South. On this route you will get to visit the Shut Inns, a wonderful freak of nature and while here, just a climb of a few yards up the granite cliffs, you are at the Buzzard’s Nest, and down in the basin, is Jesse James’ old campground, and a dozen other things of interest will be noticed before you start your car for the final drive to the City of Vapors.

We will go from here to Social Hill, “a village with a history,” here we turn northwest and have a drive up the beautiful Prairie Creek valley, passing some of the most productive valley farms that Hot Spring County can boast of. Now we are leaving the valley and ascending the slope that leads to the summit of Jack Mountain, from the peak you get a beautiful bird’s eye view of Hot Springs in the distance. Here nature unfolds to the tourists all of her hidden beauties, a great placid river is winding its way in a southerly direction amidst groves of giant oaks and virgin pine forests that will soon be extinct in this country.

March 1, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

H. B. Means Residence Burns

The residence of attorney and Mrs. H.B. Means on Page Avenue was completely destroyed by fire yesterday morning about 10 o’clock. The house and furniture was insured for $1,000, which does not half cover the loss. The fire caught in the attic and is thought to have been caused from defective wiring or the wires becoming crossed.

The fire occurred just as the Methodist and Presbyterian Sunday schools were being dismissed for classes, and a large crowd soon gathered and succeeded in removing all the furniture from the house, and saving the garage and other outbuildings. Mr. Means’ automobile and motorcycle was also saved. Good work was done by citizens who formed a volunteer fire and salvage crew and removed everything of value from the house.

It was only by the heroic efforts of a large crowd which that gathered that the beautiful home of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Adams, next door to the Means home, was saved. Wet blankets and quilts were spread on the roof, and too much praise cannot be given those who stationed themselves on the roof and extinguished the blazes as fast as the house caught fire. Bucket brigades were formed and many wells in the neighborhood were pressed into service. The ladies also deserve much credit, for as cool-headed as the men, they worked faithfully to prevent the spread of the fire. The Adams home was burning at two or three different times, when willing hands began to remove furniture and a great deal was moved to adjoining yards. Had the flames spread to the Adams home, other Pine Bluff Street homes would have no doubt been burned and much damage done.

A small stream of water from a hose directed to the roof of the house saved it, with only a little damage, but with nothing better than a bucket brigade, there is no telling to what extent in loss a fire will reach. This is two fires in the past two days. Both houses were completely destroyed. With waterworks both could have easily been saved and little damage done.

March 8, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Child Drowns in Barrel of Water

News reached the city this morning of the drowning of the 11-month-old daughter of W.W. Nichols of Social Hill yesterday in a barrel of water. Together with other children the little one was playing on the porch of her home when she fell off the porch into a barrel of water and was drowned before assistance could be called. The family resides at the old Ward place at Social Hill. The burial will take place this afternoon at DeRoche.

March 22, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Dalark Visited by Tornado

At least one death, possibly five, and possibly more, were caused by a tornado a mile and a half north of Dalark about 10 o’clock last night. Charles Wetherington is dead, his wife, her brother, their hired man and an orphan girl who made her home with them, are missing and cannot be found by men who are search the vicinity. Members of the family of John Amos of the same community are also missing and the homes of the two families are in ruins.

Weatherington was killed outright when the storm struck and demolished his home. What became of the other members of the family is not known. It is believed that a heavy property damage and a probably loss of life was inflicted in other communities near here.

The tornado struck that vicinity from the west. It apparently swept across Clark County and into Dallas County. Wire service is interrupted and communication with the districts where it is believed that much damage was done is difficult.

News was received by telephone in Malvern today of the tornado by Mrs. William Chandler, who is a sister of John Amos, to the effect that Mr. Amos is not expected to live. Mr. Amos’ son, Jack, was killed outright. All of the family of Wetheringtons who were missing, were killed also.

March 29, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Near Serious Wreck of Sunshine Special

What railroad people call just simple, plain, luck, was the only explanation that could be made of why a disastrous wreck did not result when the Sunshine Special running at the rate of 60 miles an hour over eighteen miles of straight track near Witherspoon this morning, did not occur.

The engine of the northbound Sunshine Special, which is due here at 1:20 this a.m., left the track and plowed along the ties for some time and was stopped without a scratch or injury to anyone. Engineer Jim Winn of Little Rock was in charge of the engine, and was making good time, as this train always makes, when the end of the journal on one pair of trucks of the engine broke, letting the side rods down, thus causing the engine to jump the track. Engineer Winn stayed by his cab until the train was brought to a stop. The accident tied up traffic on the road for about five hours when a wrecking crew was brought from Little Rock and the engine repaired.

April 5, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Breaks Arm While Cranking Auto

Sam Reamy, Jr., an employee of the City Garage, had the misfortune this morning to break his arm while cranking an automobile. The wrist of the right arm was broken. He is getting along as well as could be expected under the circumstances.

April 12, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Class of Fifty Joins Methodist Church

A class of 50 were taken into the Methodist Church at the morning service yesterday as a result of the revival which has been in progress for the past three weeks. In the afternoon an old-fashioned love feast and experience meeting was held which was greatly enjoyed by a large audience. At the night service the Rev. Mr. May preached an excellent sermon on the resurrection of our Lord. This proved one of Rev. May’s best sermons and was greatly enjoyed by a large audience. A special song service by Messrs. Lifsey and Shumaker and Rev. Gregory was a feature of the evening. It was announced that the meeting will continue several days longer and the regular service will be held tonight.

Cottage prayer meeting was held with Mrs. George Cox, and the men’s prayer meeting at the store of G.A. Chamberlain & Company. The men’s prayer meeting will be held at the store of Browning & Emerson tomorrow. Rev. Marion Nelson Waldrip of Hot Springs will speak at the Methodist Church next Thursday night in the interest of Henderson-Brown College.

April 19, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Belote Wins on Official Count

The sub-committee from the County Democratic Central Committee met at the courthouse Wednesday afternoon and cast up the returns of the primary held last Saturday to nominate candidates for delegate to the Constitutional Convention, which showed the same result as has been already reported by this paper. Ouachita Township failed to get their returns to the committee, but had promised to get them in by this afternoon. If this is done their vote will count in the official returns. The vote, however, in this township would make no difference in the result of the election.

The vote, which will be certified by the committee, including Ouachita Township, is as follows: Belote, 216; Carden, 196; Keith, 81.

The vote in the district delegate race was as follows: Banks, 224; Elliott, 207; Henry, 188. In the district, Elliott and Banks won for district delegates.

Malvern Gets Free Mail Delivery

It has been announced by Postmaster Claude Mann that as a result of a recent investigation of condition here by Post Office inspector Ira Ross, he has received instructions from the Fourth Assistant Postmaster General at Washington to inaugurate a free village delivery service in Malvern on June 1. Two carriers will be employed to deliver the mail, and two deliveries will be made each day. The carriers will be chosen under competitive civil service examination, and the examination will be called at an early date.

It will be necessary for each patron to provide a private mail receptacle, which may be either a slot cut in the front door or a suitable box selected by the patron. The desirability of this requirement is apparent, as it enables the carrier to deliver mail at all times, even when no one is at home, and makes it unnecessary for anyone to answer the calls of the carrier, and aids in the rendition of expeditious service. Business houses, however, will not be required to provide these receptacles. Nine United States collection boxes will be established at points on the two delivery routes, and the mails will be collected twice a day and brought to the postoffice for dispatch.

All “drop letters” will require 2-cent postage where they are to be delivered by a carrier. This will, to some extent, offset the loss of revenue in local postoffice receipts which will be occasioned by some of the patrons relinquishing their boxes. Most of the box holders, however, will retain their boxes in order that they may get service on Sundays and holidays.

Postmaster Mann, Assistant Postmaster Lon Hardin, clerks Ray Boyle and Carl Benson will gladly give additional information regarding the service and the examination to fill the positions of carriers.

The people of Malvern owe a debt of gratitude to Congressman Sam M. Taylor who has faithfully worked for the establishment of the free delivery for Malvern. It was largely through his efforts that it has been secured.

April 26, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Farmer Captures Young Wolves

Sam Cunningham of Clear Creek was in the city this morning and reported that he had captured eight young wolves in a hollow pine stump about 100 yards from his place. Mr. Cunningham states that the farmers in his vicinity have been bothered considerably of late with wolves. While plowing in his field he heard an unusual racket, and upon investigation found the nest of wolves in the stump. He was offered $40 for them in the city this morning, but has not sold them yet, and says he will hold them for the highest bidder. Mr. Cunningham is one of the most prominent young farmers in Clear Creek neighborhood. He states that should an emergency arise, he is willing to volunteer for either the Navy or Army.

May 3, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Boys Corn Club Rally Today

Today the Corn Club boys and the boys of Malvern who recently joined the “Food Preparedness” squad are having a great time together at the courthouse. There are 40 bright enthusiastic young fellows present and they enjoyed talks from Mr. Jernigan, Mr. Sanders, and Mr. Kapp, immensely. It was suggested by Mr. Jernigan that these corn and cotton club boys get a pig and join the pig club, also. The banks of Malvern gave us authority to state to the boys that they would furnish the funds at a low rate of interest with which to buy the pigs, using the boys’ notes as collateral. Seven boys took advantage of this opportunity at once. At this writing the boys are being drilled on the courthouse grounds by a representative of the Boy Scouts. We especially want to thank the ladies of the various clubs who so generously contributed their time and food in serving the boys so bountifully.  —W.E. Daniel, County Agent

Moline Lumber Company Raises Large Flag

At noon today the Moline Lumber Company raised a large United States flag over their plant north of the city. The flag was placed on the tank, 180 feet high. It can easily be seen from Main Street of the city.

May 10, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Boy Scout Movement on Foot Here

There is a movement on foot in Malvern to start a Boy Scout organization. Mr. Robert McDermott, who has been visiting here for the past two weeks from Hutchinson, Kansas, where he is Assistant Scout Master, has made some headway toward an organization of this kind. Thirty or forty boys met him Friday in the high school auditorium and a temporary organization was effected. As yet, no Scout Master has been appointed. This is a movement in the right direction and deserves the support of our people.

June 7, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

1,394 Register in County

 At noon Wednesday all townships of Hot Spring County had reported the result of the registration in this county to the County Board, which enabled the chairman to wire the result to the governor by 2 p.m., probably as early as any county in the state reported. Of the 1394 who registered, 1201 were white and 194 blacks. Dependent relatives were indicated on the cards of 807 whites and 142 blacks. We have been requested to state that bows of ribbon were pinned on all who registered in Malvern and Fenter townships.

The result of the registration in this county by township is as follows: Henderson, 46; Valley, 55; Bismarck, 61; Montgomery, 55; DeRoche, 44; Lone Hill, 46; Upper Prairie, 37; Lower Prairie, 56; Ouachita, 48; Alford, 35; Harrison, 64; Clear Creek, 32; Gifford, 30; Saline, 43; Magnet, 48; Brown Springs, 48; Butterfield, 23; Big Creek, 48; Midway, 58; Fenter, 154; Malvern, 1^st Ward, 80; Malvern, 2^nd Ward, 143; Malvern, 3^rd Ward, 60; 4^th Ward, 34.

The following chief registrars of the various townships came in this morning and brought the returns: Miles A. Traywick, Henderson; J.R. Diffee, Valley; John Goodman, Bismarck; J.T. Montgomery, Montgomery; R.A. Bledsoe, DeRoche; J.L. Collie, Antioch; M.N. Means, Alford; O. Hardy, Lone Hill; J.M. Montgomery, Upper Prairie; W.M. Fowler, Lower Prairie; T.A. Burton, Midway; C.F. Berry, Ouachita; Joe B. Lucy, Brown Springs; J.Z. Dacis, Harrison; W.P. Bowers, Clear Creek; W.F. Brownlee, Big Creek; Charles Draper, Gifford; W.F. Westerman, Saline; J.W. Kimsey, Magnet; Dr. T.H. Green, Butterfield.

June 14, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Malvern Visited by Another Storm

Another terrific windstorm visited this community last night, starting about 9 o’clock and lasting for several hours. No houses were blown away, and no one was hurt so far as we have been able to learn. Main and Pine Bluff streets and Page Avenue were filled with fallen trees and branches and wires of the Arkansas Light & Power Company, and by 10 o’clock the current was shut off on account of so many falling wires. A large force of men was put to work this morning repairing the lines, and the current was restored by 9:30 a.m.

Manager Murray of the Light Company states that the wires will stand any amount of wind, but are broken down by the falling of the trees, against which no precaution can be taken. The company was besieged with many requests to cut off the current; this was done as a last resort. All possible haste was made this morning to have the lines repaired and current restored. The current was restored at 9:30.

The storm did not last long, but was followed by a hard rain which lasted almost the entire night.  The local telephone exchange reports a large number of the company’s wires down and many phones out-of-order. Normal service was restored, however, early this morning.

July 5, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

1,000 Feet of Sewer Pipe Laid

Work on the Malvern water and sewer system is progressing nicely and a large force of men is employed on the work. 1,000 feet of sewer pipe has already been placed in the ground. The work was begun near the Arkansas Land and Lumber Company, and the pipes are being laid this way. A carload of cast iron for the water pipes arrived yesterday. The big ditcher is being put in shape and will be started to work Monday.

July 12, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Opening of Central High School

The opening of Central High School on July 2^nd was attended by a large number of the patrons of the school and several visitors. Professor. S.B.C. May is the principal, assisted by Mr. Berry at the lower school and Miss Carrie Hughes at the upper school. A large number of pupils enrolled on the first day, and several have started since. The school is located on the Arkadelphia road, five miles from Malvern. Rev. J.E. Sherrill, pastor of the Second Baptist Church, was a visitor at the opening.

July 19, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

New Rural Route September 1^st

Notification has been received by Postmaster Claud Mann that Rural Route No. 4 has been established by the Post Office Department, effective September 1^st. The new route will cover 31 miles, going by Rockport bridge, and in a northwest direction. Service will be had three times a week, leaving the local post office at 7:30 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and returning at 4 p.m. The establishment of this new route will be a great accommodation to the many citizens living in that part of the county.

July 26, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

7,500 Feet of Sewer is Laid

Statements from the Malvern Water and Sewer office today were to the effect that 7,500 feet of sewer pipe has been laid, and with the rapid progress being made it is only a question of a short time until the entire system will be completed. This week, the big steam ditcher, which does the work of about 50 men, is rapidly plowing up Main Street, digging the ditch in which the sewer pipes are to be laid. Just as soon as this is completed the laying of the water mains will begin.

The route which has been covered by the sewer pipes is as follows: Sullenberger Street from out fall line; from the septic tank up the Grigsby Ford Road; Oak Street, from First to Sullenberger; Third Street, from Oak to Stanley; Stanley Street from Oak to Olive; Olive to Locust on First Street. The pipes being laid on Main Street will go from First Street to Mill Street. About fifty men are now employed on the work.

August 2, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

City Property is Exchanged

A deal was consummated Tuesday by which George W. Robertson becomes the owner of the residence of Dr. W.S. Richardson, and Dr. Richardson becomes the owner of Mr. Robertson’s home on Main Street. Mr. Robertson will move to the Richardson home shortly, and Dr. and Mrs. Richardson will move to the Robertson home.

August 9, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

John Lindahl & Son Sell Hardware Business

A deal was consummated yesterday by which the firm of John Lindahl & Son sold their hardware business to J.R. Purifoy, W.H. Young, George Chidester, and Tom Earle, of Camden. These gentlemen will take charge of the business on August 16^th. It is understood the new firm will be incorporated. Mr. Lindahl has been in business in Malvern for many years, and his friends regret to see him sell out. He has not decided upon his plans for the future, but states that he does not intend to leave Malvern. The members of the new firm come to Malvern well recommended, all having been successful businessmen in Camden. Mr. Purifoy is an experienced hardware man and was in the hardware business at Willow during last year.

August 16, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Red Cross Chapter Organized in Malvern

At a meeting at the Presbyterian church Friday morning the organization of a Red Cross chapter was perfected. The charter members are Mrs. Henry Berger, Mrs. A.E. Alderson, Mrs. Sig Eisman, Mrs. Henry Means, Mrs. Lee Miller, Mrs. A. Browning, Mrs. W.L. Stewart, Mrs. Clara Cooper, Mrs. E.T. Bramlitt, and Miss Lewis Smith.

Mr. W.A. Kling, Field Secretary of the Red Cross Society was present, and after giving graphic description of the conditions in Europe and what the Red Cross Society is doing, outlined the plans for the organization of a chapter here. The following businessmen of Malvern were elected as an executive committee: G.E. Mattison, chairman; J.E. Young, vice-chairman; E.O. Kilpatrick, secretary; R.S. Smith, Jr., treasurer; J.C. Ross; Rev. J.H. Howell; William Anderson; George B. Cox; C.P. Bridewell; and Dr. R.Y. Phillips. Ten dollars was immediately forwarded with the request to organize a chapter, and work will be begun at once by the ladies to get the necessary 500 members for the permanent organization. The membership will not be limited to the town of Malvern, but any citizen of Hot Spring County may become a member, and all are urged to do so.

Those who in the recent Red Cross Campaign contributed more than one dollar may become members by notifying Mr. J. Elmo Young that they wish a part of their contribution to go to this cause. It is the earnest hope of those who have begun this work that every contributor will become a member of the Chapter. Those who have made no contribution at all are urged to contribute at least one dollar to this worthy cause. Give or send all contributions to Mr. Robert Smith, Jr., at the Bank of Malvern. — C.P. Bridewell, Chairman Pro Tem.

August 23, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Commercial Hotel Changes Hands

A change in the management of the Commercial Hotel took place this morning when A.R. England of Clarksville took over the lease of the hotel formerly held by R.P. Bowen, who has been in charge for several months. J.A. England, son of A.R. England, will be actively in charge of the hotel and proposes to make many new improvements, and says he intends to run the best hotel ever run in Malvern. Mr. England has been in the hotel business for the past seventeen years and understands the business well, and comes to this city well recommended. We wish the new management success.

September 6, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

To Place More Street Lights

Probably the most important business transacted at the regular meeting of the City Council Monday night was the placing of additional street lights throughout the city. The proposition of the Arkansas Light & Power Company to furnish additional lights and allow the city a discount on its bill, whereby the new lights would not be any additional cost, was turned over to the Lighting Committee with power to act in regard to placing of the additional lights.

The Council was presided over by Mayor Haley, and the following aldermen answered to the roll call: Mattison, Allen, Bramlitt, Dixon, Goodman, and Chamberlain. The regular monthly bills were allowed and ordered paid.

The following were the officers’ reports, received and approved: Mayor—assessed fines, $49; City Recorder—issued warrants on the General Fund, $594.07, issued warrants on the Street Fund, $216.62; Marshal—collected fines, $34.92, collected license, $62.50; Dog Tax–$2.00; Cemetery Lot–$5.00; Sanitary Collector—collected $210; Street Commissioner—warned labor worked 2 days, collected in lieu of labor, $114, work done by city force for Water Works, $65.55.

A motion was adopted instructing the Ordinance Committee to draw up a resolution urging the Western Union Telegraph Company to establish an uptown office in Malvern to care for their increasing business.

Chamber of Commerce Takes First Step for Road Through County

At a special meeting of the Malvern Chamber of Commerce the first steps were taken toward securing from the state government $12,000, which has been allowed to Hot Spring County for road-building purposes provided the county raises a like amount. County Judge Gilchrist explained to the Chamber of Commerce that Hot Spring County now has something over $12,000.00 to her credit coming from the National and State Highway departments and this amount may be had and expended on the roads of our county, provided we comply with requirements. It was further explained that the first step in this direction is to file an application for an Improvement District. This application is made to the State Highway Department and they will send competent engineers to survey the route and make an estimate of the cost of building a road over said route.

The next step is a petition from the people on either side of the proposed route not to exceed three miles from the road and if a majority of the people petition for said route, it is then put up to commissioners appointed by the national government as to whether they will approve the expenditure of the estimated cost or not.

The reader will bear in mind that the state and national departments do not propose to build our roads entirely, but they do propose to spend a dollar every time we spend one, which after all, seems very liberal. The fact that the railroads and all public business or corporations are called on to bear their pro rata share of the taxes and as the amount necessary can be raised and paid in ten, twenty, or thirty years, this necessarily makes it very light on any individual taxpayer. The additional taxes would be small indeed compared to a first class road.

The Chamber of Commerce discussed the most-needed route in Hot Spring County and in view of the fact that it is proposed that a pike road be built from Memphis or some place back east through Arkansas by way of Little Rock to Texarkana, and as the Little Rock and Camden road by way of Gifford from Saline County line to Malvern and on down the Malvern-Arkadelphia road to the Clark County line south of Brown Springs is the most direct route and could probably be built for less money than any other road of the same length in the county it was the wish of this body, with one dissenting vote, that this be laid out as an “Improvement District” and the County Judge was so instructed. We hope that everyone will become a booster for this laudable undertaking and that not only this, but that many other improvement districts may be laid out and it will not require many years to have pike roads in all parts of the county.

The meeting of the Chamber was one of the best attended in some time, and much enthusiasm was shown over the prospects of getting an excellent road through the county. Judge Gilchrist states that he has today forwarded to the State Highway Department a petition asking that the engineers be sent to begin the survey of the road.

September 13, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Rockport School Opened Monday

The Rockport School opened Monday with about 100 pupils enrolled. Professor W.L. Weaver is principal; Miss Lota Long, in charge of the Intermediate Department, and Mrs. W.L. Weaver, the Primary Department. A large number of the patrons of the school were present at the opening exercises. An address of L.L. Batchelor, president of the Board, was greatly enjoyed. Professor Weaver also made a short talk to the pupils and patrons at the opening.

Another Rural Route Established Yesterday

Rural Route No. 4 was established yesterday from the local post office with William F. “Bud” Johnson as temporary carrier. The service is tri-weekly—Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, leaving Malvern at 7:30 a.m., and returning at 5:30 p.m. The distance is about 35 miles. It covers a territory that has been heretofore remote to post office service. The route leaves Malvern via Judge Fitzhugh’s place, crossing Ouachita River at Rockport, going thence in a northwesterly direction through the Haltom, Smith, and Burris neighborhood. The route turns west in Garland County, passing Bailey School, Denton’s Mill, Red Oak School and Church, and White Oak School, thence south to the intersection of the Hot Springs Road. From there the route turns east passing Mountain Valley School, crossing Blakely’s Creek, passing through the Arkansas Land & Lumber Company camps, and intersecting the Malvern and DeRoche Road at J.F. Tucker. From Cash’s store, the route comes back to Malvern by the old Military Road through Beauchamp settlement and back over Rockport bridge.

This gives the longest and one of the most important routes yet established by the post office department in this section of the country. It gives service to a great many families who have lived in an isolated yet rich and productive part of the country. It puts the businessmen of Malvern in touch with these people, whose business has heretofore gone to Hot Springs.

To the efforts of Col. Sam M. Taylor, Congressman from this district, the establishment of this route is greatly due. Col. Taylor has always been untiring in his efforts in behalf of the country people of his district and has given a great deal of his time with the post office department in the establishment of rural routes and other mail conveniences for the people. Assistant Postmaster Lon P. Hardin made the initial trip over the route with carrier Bud Johnson.

Another Big Ear of Corn

Speaking of the excellent quality of corn raised in Hot Spring County, you should inspect the ear of corn now on exhibition at Adams & Son, which is being shown by Lewis Collie. The corn was raised by R.W. Baker near Malvern, and the ear contains 1015 grains. It weighs 1½ pounds, measures 10½ inches in length, and nine inches around. Mr. Baker says he has plenty more just as good.

September 20, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Citizens Cheer as Soldier Boys Entrain

Probably the greatest demonstration ever witnessed in Malvern took place Wednesday afternoon when citizens marched to the depot to bid good-bye to the boys who left for Camp Pike. The crowd gathered, headed by the Malvern Band and the Home Guard, 72 men in charge of Fred L. Higdon, appointed captain, began their march to the depot to take the train for Little Rock to enter the service for their country.

They were accompanied by a large number of citizens, and log before the train arrived, the crowd increased to something like 2,000. Beautiful and appropriate music was rendered by the Malvern Band. Six young ladies pinned roses on the soldier boys and practically everybody in the vast crowd shook hands with them and wished them Godspeed on their journey and a safe return to their homes after the war.

At exactly 3:35 the train arrived, loaded with men from different towns along the line. To the tune of Dixie and other patriotic airs, the boys entrained and were soon on their way, followed by the shouts and cheers of the entire crowd. “On to Berlin, Kaiser Soup for Christmas Dinner,” was the inscription in chalk on the coach carrying the Texarkana men, which attracted much attention. Malvern citizens, assisted by the good women of the town, responded nobly to the call to see her sons off to enter the conflict against the Kaiser, and their presence and good words of cheer and comfort were no doubt highly appreciated by those who have been chosen to go.

Following are those who went: Albert William Greer, Albert Elijah Benson, Verner Earnest Manning, Eldad Yates, Chester Duncan, William Robin Staton, Floyd Lorence Reid, Clarence James Carver, Earl Solmos, John Andy Allen, Fred J. Runyan, Earnest Clyde Adams, Emanuel Edgar Ellis, Other Ray Lawrence, Fred H. Flanders, Elmer Dennis Sheets, Jesse D. Mullinax, John Homer Gray, Boyle Lord, William Washington Johnson, Fred Lee Ashley, William Buie, John Wesley Winningham, Burton Hall, Hugh Tinsle Baxter, Franklin Asberry Ashley, Claude David Faulkner, Other Artemus McDaniel, Joseph Albert Hill, Harvy N. Elkins, Tom Freeman, William H. Overturf, Fred Lee Higdon, Gordon Hallie Bull, Jesse Nacmi Selph, Joseph Phelps, Harvey Lewis Johnson, Jim Miller, George Edward Nasher, Earl Cathcart, John Thomas Walters, David Edward Wilson, Charley Copple, Max Harold Strauss, Phillip J. Heller, John N. Hendrix, Joseph H. Goesman, Herbert A. Brooks, Lee Houston Harris, James L. Corbitt, Charles W. Edwards, Silas Boston Wilson, Joseph R. Ross, William Carl Williams, Ruce L. Bumgarner, Aulse Bettis, James Edgar Van Camp, John C. Price, L.Q. Merritt, Hugh Morris Slone, Rufus Claude Stone, Sid Sirratt, Roy Carroll Silson, Henry Schultz, Harvey Benjamin Parrish, Hallie Burton Foster, William Albert Williams, George Collins, Jesse Delton Munds, William A. Sulton, George Franklin Phillips, Luther W. Bailey, William Allen Diehl.

September 27, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

No. 4 Wrecked Near Arkadelphia

Arkadelphia, 2 p.m.—Iron Mountain passenger train No. 4, running four hours late was wrecked 2½ miles north of this city at 11 o’clock this morning, the engineer, fireman, and two mail clerks being seriously injured, the exact extent of their injuries having at this time not been learned.

The wreck was caused by the breaking of the left drive wheel of the engine, and the engine and one mail coach left the track. The train was traveling at a high rate of speed when the accident occurred and the engine was just starting over the trestle over the Saline Bayou. Engineer “Dad” Cole, who was in charge of the engine, applied the air and the speed was reduced to about 10 miles an hour when the engine and mail car toppled over in the bayou 20 feet below. His act prevented the entire train from following, and probably saved the lives of the passengers on board.

The engine turned a complete somersault and landed bottom side up at the bottom of the bayou, with engineer Cole and fireman McCabe pinned beneath. The trestle was 100 yards long and was completely demolished and traffic is entirely tied up, and from the appearance of things will not be reopened for some time, company officials claim, however, that it will be resumed by 5 o’clock. Wrecking crews were summoned from Gurdon and Little Rock, and the trains from Little Rock brought officials of the company to the scene.

The injured were: Daddy Cole, engineer, of Little Rock, scalded from hips down; McCabe, fireman, Little Rock, internally injured, may die; F.W. Wheeler, Fort Worth, Texas, mail clerk, bruised and hurt internally, may die; B.B. McCrumby, Fort Worth, Texas, mail clerk, bruised and cut, not serious. Fireman McCabe, who was injured, assisted in pulling the engineer from beneath the wreck before assistance arrived.

News of the wreck was received in this city shortly after it occurred, and hundreds of citizens rushed to the scene in automobiles, having given assistance to the injured. Doctors were rushed to the scene and the injured were brought here in cars. The scene of the wreck is remote from telegraphic communication and the particulars were meager, and considerable excitement prevailed here, as many friends and relatives were on the train. Citizens and physicians of Arkadelphia did their full duty, however, and the injured were properly cared for.

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News of the wreck of No. 4 was received in Malvern about 11 o’clock this morning but full particulars could not be obtained. No. 5, which left here at 10:30 was held up at Donaldson and no trains went through after that time. The local freight was held here. No. 7 was taken to the Cotton Belt tracks and went around by Texarkana. At 2 p.m. the wrecker from Little Rock, with full crew and many railroad officials, stopped here a short time enroute to the scene of the wreck. Agent Jones boarded the wrecker here, being ordered to the scene to equip a telegraph line. It is thought by local railroad officials that the road will be opened for traffic by 6 o’clock. Several Malvern citizens went to the wreck in cars and will return this evening.

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Up to noon today the wreckage 2 miles this side of Arkadelphia had not been sufficiently cleared away to allow traffic to pass. Although a large force of men have been working since 2 o’clock yesterday, it is not thought traffic will resume before a late hour this afternoon. No. 233 went as far as the scene of the wreck last night and transferred its passengers and returned as No. 6. No. 4 was marked up to be here at 2 p.m. today and No. 5 was held here for several hours. Agent Jones returned last night and was relieved by Operator Dixon this morning, who is handling the telegraph for the company at the scene of the wreck today. A new trestle is being built and it will be several days before regular traffic will be resumed. The injured were taken to Little Rock last night and are still in a serious condition.

October 4, 1917

J.M. Abrams, business manager of the “Birth of a Nation,” was a visitor in the city yesterday. In company with manager McDonald of the Royal Theatre, he made this office a pleasant call. Elsewhere in this issue will be found the ad for this excellent production which will be shown at the Royal Theatre in this city October 23, matinee and night. Manager McDonald is to be congratulated upon securing this production for Malvern, and it is one that should be seen by everyone.

October 11, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Arrest Alleged Bank Robbers

What is considered one of the most important arrests to have been made by local officers in many years was made here this morning, when Sheriff J.E. Stanley and Deputy D.S. Bray took into custody Carl Lewis, his wife Juanita, and C.L. Taylor. Lewis is charged with being the lone bandit who robbed the Bank of Huttig after locking the cashier in the vault, and made his getaway with several thousand dollars on September 7^th. The trio were locked up in the Hot Spring County jail. Lewis was later taken to El Dorado by officers from that city, and Sheriff Stanley will take the other two to that place on Thursday.

Sheriff Fin Crain and his deputy, J.W. Perritt, and C.H. Murphy, president of the Bank of Huttig; Prosecuting Attorney J.K. Maloney, and detective D.D. Rockwell, connected with the Pinkerton agency, arrived in Malvern this morning from El Dorado after being on the road since one o’clock this morning, after getting a tip that their man was in Malvern. Lewis was formerly a resident of Union County and had been seen around Huttig for some time before the robbery. Shortly afterwards, however, officers say he disappeared, and was traced by Pinkerton men and local officers to Kansas City, where the trail was lost. A letter written by him to someone in El Dorado gave them the clue that he was here and the officers started for this place. Upon arriving here, the sheriff’s office was immediately notified and Deputy Bray spotted his man while leaving the post office, where he had rented a box. As he entered the store of W.H. Cooper & Co., Sheriff Stanley and Deputy Bray followed, and ordered him to throw up his hands. He was slow, but finally complied, whereupon the sheriff removed from him a 32 Savage Colt automatic revolver. He was then placed in jail. The woman and Taylor were later arrested when they came to the sheriff’s office.

Upon being placed in jail, Lewis was searched, but had only a few dollars on him. After he had been in jail a short time, he borrowed a match and set fire to a roll of bills, which amounted to several hundred dollars. It was described as being six inches high. Jailer Billy Roberson was called and succeeded in putting the burning currency out, but not in time to save any of it. It is said that he ripped his coat and took the money out of the lining where it had been placed in several large rolls. Officers immediately searched the trunk belonging to the pair and found one roll of bills amounting to $146; $19 in one dollar bills; and a grip full of pennies. Besides the money, the pair were well fixed for protection, with three 45 Colt automatics; one No. 12 Winchester; and one 30-30 Marlin rifle; and several hundred rounds of cartridges.

The woman was searched at the jail by Mrs. Billy Roberson and upon the first search, $7.80 was found. Being suspicious of her actions, Mrs. Roberson gave her a second search and was rewarded for her trouble by finding $205 neatly folded up in her clothing. Several pearls were also found. In searching the trunk, many clippings from newspapers telling of different bank robberies were found. One in particular, which attracted the officers’ attention, was a clipping from the Arkansas Gazette telling of the Huttig robbery.

The trio arrived in Malvern on Sunday and have been here since. They were having several large boats made and had already placed two of them in the Ouachita River. They also had several tents, a quantity of tenting, and from all indications, were preparing to take a long trip down the river. One bunch of keys found in the trunk contained 26 keys of all kinds and descriptions.

A peculiar incident connected with the affair is that it was discovered they had bored a small hole in the door of their room and in several doors in the rooms adjoining theirs. A quantity of ether and a large amount of copper wire was also found. In fact, everything connected with the trio looked suspicious, and it is the belief of everyone that the local officers and the Union County officials have made a very important arrest, and the people of Malvern are very thankful that they are removed from our midst.

The only one of the trio who would do any talking was Taylor, who claims to have been employed by Lewis, and states that they were going down the river fishing. They were certainly prepared for most any kind of expedition. When arrested, Mrs. Lewis sat quietly in jail, calmly reading her Bible. She protested vigorously, however, when placed in a cell.

Sheriff Craig and Detective Rockwell are positive in their identification of Lewis, and state that while he is a former resident of Union County, he has been in the state of Washington for many years and only returned there a short time before the bank was robbed.

November 1, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Red Cross Ladies Open Workroom

Red Cross materials have arrived and are being unpacked today at the Red Cross work room in the Will Graves building. A general invitation is extended to everyone to come and see what the ladies and girls of Hot Spring County expect to do for our soldier boys.

Wednesday, the Baptist ladies will have charge of the work room; Thursday, the Methodist ladies; Friday, the Presbyterians. Monday and Tuesday have not yet been assigned to any especial organization. Captains and their secretaries in charge of the work room each day have not yet been appointed.

The use of the building is being donated rent-free by Mr. Will Graves. The electric light company will furnish us with light without cost, and the gas company will furnish the heat to keep us comfortable without any compensation. The stoves were donated by Dr. Bridewell and Frisby & Smith. The use of the machines by the following ladies: Mrs. C.P. Bridewell, Mrs. R.S. Norton, Mrs. H.H. Shumaker, Mrs. Harold Strauss, Mrs. Henry Berger, Mrs. Martha B. Sumpter, Mrs. Lizzie Sullenberger.

We hope everybody interested will come forward and volunteer their assistance whether they are a member of our organization or not. This is everybody’s work and everyone who can handle a needle or the knitting needles are welcome. Materials are furnished by the Red Cross chapter. What we now need is workers. Malvern is a little behind in getting the workshop started, so let’s work up for lost time, and by our efforts who that we may be last, but we won’t, NO WE WON’T, be least.  —Mrs. Percy Chamberlain, Mrs. Henry Berger, Mrs. R.Y. Phillips, Committee.

November 8, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

S.I.A. Opposes Compulsory Lunch

At a meeting of the School Improvement Association at the high school auditorium yesterday, by a large majority, the Association voted in favor of changing the school rule compelling the children to take lunch to school, and decided to request the School Board to change the ruling and allow those who desire to go home at the noon hour. Much discussion was had on the subject. Talks were made by Superintendent Pratt, Rev. J.T. Howell, and Mrs. Haynie.

The Society offered a prize of $1 to the high school student writing the best theme on “Americanism.” One new member joined the Association. The Association formed a Red Cross unit to sew at the Red Cross workroom each Tuesday. Mrs. George Morrison was appointed captain, and Mrs. Jennie Slater, secretary.

November 15, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Bale of Cotton Brings $199.96

R.D. Patrick of Social Hill today sold a bale of cotton to R.P. Goodman for $199.96. This is a good illustration of the Malvern cotton market. This bale was just an average bale of short cotton, the same kind that is being sold in Malvern every day. When farmers can get prices like this here, why go to the trouble and expense of taking your cotton to other points. About 30 bales of cotton were sold in Malvern today.

November 22, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Work Starts on Big Flour Mill

D.G. Allen has been awarded the contract for the erection of the $10,000 flour mill by R.J. Brooks and J.H. Rutherford, and began work today. The mill will be equipped with up-to-date, modern machinery, and will be in operation by January 1. The mill will have a capacity of 75 barrels per day. It is being erected near the plant of the Malvern Ice Company.

November 29, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Man Injured by Falling of Scaffold

The falling of a scaffold at the septic tank being built by the McCrary Company in the southern part of the city caused serious, if not fatal, injury to L.L. Butler, a workman for the company. Butler was taking out some forms which held the concrete when the scaffold fell and crushed him against the wall of the tank. His injuries were pronounced quite serious and may prove fatal.

December 6, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Sheriff Stanley Gets Men and Horses

Sheriff J.E. Stanley received word from the sheriff’s office at Hot Springs that two young men with stolen horses were headed this way and to be on the lookout for them. The sheriff, accompanied by Deputy D.S. Bray, started out in pursuit and near Donaldson, caught the alleged thieves and recovered the horses. The young men were placed in the county jail and will be returned to Hot Springs tonight. The sheriff also captured six quarts of “booze” yesterday morning coming to Malvern. He is making a strong effort to enforce the bone dry law, as well as others, and will no doubt succeed.

December 13, 1917: Malvern Times Journal

Perla Saw Mill Destroyed by Fire

As we go to press we learn that the big saw mill of the Malvern Lumber Company at Perla is on fire and will probably be a total loss. The origin is unknown at this time. It is thought the planing mill, the commissary, and other buildings will be saved.