HomeMy WebLinkAboutBGA v29-1 winter 2008Brazos Genealogist
CONTENTS PAGE
Newspaper Clippings, 1885-1893 ........................Bill Page 3
Sunday Shooting...............................Regina Opersteny 10
Newspaper Odd and Ends, 1868 - 1894 ...................Bill Page 11
Check List of Texas Imprints, 1861 - 1876 ..............John P. Blair 14
Selected Records - Texas “Republic Claims Series” pt 2 ...... Bill Page 25
Circus, Plays and Shows, 1850 - 1900's ................... Bill Page 28
The Bryan Weekly Eagle, November 16, 1905 ......................35
Index complied by .................................Ron Hambric 36
BRAZOS GENEALOGIST
VOLUME XXIX NUMBER 1
WINTER 2008
BRAZOS GENEALOGICAL ASSOCIATION
P. O. BOX 5493 BRYAN TX 77805-5493
OFFICERS 2008
PRESIDENT .........DON SIMMONS
dsimonsAL@direcway.com
VICE PRES ........VICKI SIMMONS
victsimons@aol.com
SECRETARY .....LOIS CARPENTER
TREASURER ...........RUTH HARY
rhary@txcyber.com
EDITOR ............RON HAMBRIC
ron@hambric.us
STAFF EDITORS
MEMBERSHIP .........ALLEN DEAN
asdean96@suddenlink.nett
PUBLICITY .............LUCI CASH
RESEARCH/QUERIES ....RUTH HARY
LOCAL HISTORY ....... RUTH HARY
CONTINUING SERIES .....BILL PAGE
PRINTING/INDEXING .RON HAMBRIC
MEETINGS
Meetings held the third Monday of each
month from 7:00 pm to 8:45 pm in the
Bryan Public Library. Please arrive early as
the library closes at 9:00 pm.
Membership is on a calendar year
basis, January through December.
QUARTERLY
The GENEALOGIST is published as
W inter, Spring, Summer and Fall Issues.
Each volume of the GENEALOGIST
corresponds with the membership year.
This publication is offered in print or
electronic (PDF) version. With PDF you
receive CD at end of year with four issues
plus copies of handouts from meetings.
$15.00 / year if printed version picked
up at meetings or PDF selected and CD
picked up.
$20.00 / year if quarterly mailed or
PDF version with CD mailed.
Checks for dues may be mailed to the
address at the top of the page.
WEB SITE
The web site for the Brazos
Genealogical Association is:
http://www.brazosgenealogy.org
EXCHANGE
The GENEALOGIST is available for
exchange with other organizations or
publishers who have publications to offer.
Send inquiries or samples to P.O. Box
5493, Bryan, TX 77805-5493.
SOLICITATIONS
W e solicit queries, family charts,
copies of Bible records, articles and
stories with Brazos Valley ties. Family
charts should be 8 ½” x 11".
EDITORIAL POLICY
Neither the Brazos Genealogical
Association nor the staff of the Quarterly
will be responsible for error of fact or
opinion expressed herein. Every effort is
made to publish reliable information. The
editorial staff reserves the right to accept
appropriate material with editing privileges
on a space available basis.
Members are encouraged to submit
pictures/articles of interest concerning the
Brazos Valley. Research pertaining to
deeds, Bible records, schools, churches,
and other groups or organizations are
desired. Research on material before the
turn of the century is especially welcome.
The Association will do limited local
Brazos Co. research for $10.00 / hour.
W rite for details and please enclose a
SASE.
Brazos Genealogist
Volume XXIX Number 1 Bryan/College Station
W INTER 2008 Texas
Newspaper Clippings, 1884-1893
by Bill PAGE
For many years, the Dallas Morning News published a column titled "Dallas and Texas
50 Years Ago." This column reprinted news stories that were first published 50 years
earlier. The following stories concern Brazos County.
The corner stone of the new Baptist Church at Bryan will be laid today by
representatives of the Grand Lodge of Masons. Quite a number of Bryan business men
have contracted to put telephones in their places of business. The boys of Millican have
challenged the Bryan boys to a duck hunt today. The victorious party will be treated to an
oyster supper. From Dallas Herald, Jan.29, 1884, reprinted in Dallas Morning News,
Jan.29, 1934.
Stock in the new hotel at Bryan is being taken up rapidly by our citizens and no doubt
Colonel STODDARD and Mr. RANDALL will erect the hotel. From Dallas Herald, Feb.3,
1884, reprinted in Dallas Morning News, Feb.3, 1934.
Col. George M. FIGH of Dallas has the contract for the new hotel at Bryan and will
commence work today. From Dallas Herald, Apr.4, 1884, reprinted in Dallas Morning
News, Apr.4, 1934.
The Ancient Order of United W orkmen will give a grand picnic and ball at Bryan, June
11. From Dallas Herald, June 5, 1884, reprinted in Dallas Morning News, June 5, 1934.
The closing exercises of the female seminary at Bryan will be held June 17. Guy M.
BRYAN, Jr. of Bryan, is spending a month in Brazoria County. From Dallas Herald, June
15, 1884, reprinted in Dallas Morning News, June 15, 1934.
J.R. COLE of College Station is in W ichita Falls looking after property which he
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purchased some time since. From Dallas Herald, July 25, 1884, reprinted Dallas Morning
News, July 25, 1934.
The Bryan Rifles will give their seventh annual ball in Bryan on the night of Dec.31.
From Dallas Herald, Dec.28, 1884, reprinted Dallas Morning News, Dec.28, 1934.
About forty convicts overpowered their guards and escaped from Clay's farm near
W ellborn day before yesterday, and night before last they attempted to capture the powder
magazine at Bryan. In the bloody fight, one Bryan citizen was killed, but the convicts were
driven back into the river bottom. From Dallas Herald, May 16, 1885, reprinted Dallas
Morning News, May 16, 1935.
Mr. R.M. SMITH, the original founder of the Brazos Pilot, at Bryan, purchased the same
today from Mr. Leo CLARK, and the Enterprise, from Mr. O.B. HUCKABEE, and has
consolidated them. From Dallas Morning News, Jan.14, 1886, reprinted Jan.14, 1936.
Dallas … The HOW ELL Brothers have disposed of their stock to go into the banking
business at Bryan. From Dallas Morning News, Feb.3, 1886, reprinted Feb.3, 1936.
Z.W . RICHARDSON is editor and proprietor of a new paper at Bryan, the Brazos Blade.
From Dallas Morning News, Feb.19, 1886, reprinted Feb.19, 1936.
The Brazos Presbytery opened its spring session at Navasota on the 15th, with the
Rev. Donald McGREGOR of Houston, moderator, and W illiam CAVITT, of Bryan, clerk.
From Dallas Morning News, Apr.18, 1886, reprinted Apr.18, 1936.
The State Liverymen's Association, organized at Bryan for the purpose of mutual
protection and the general advancement of the livery business in Texas, met in W aco
yesterday for its first annual session, J.W . TABOR, president, of Bryan, presiding. From
Dallas Morning News, July 15, 1886, reprinted July 15, 1936.
Following competitive examinations at Bryan, Saturday, for the scholarship to the Sam
Houston Normal School, Miss Clary W OODALL of Millican, was appointed by Hon. W .B.
CAVITT, she having passed the best examination. From Dallas Morning News, Aug.24,
1886, reprinted Aug.24, 1938.
H. KERNOLE has secured the Alliance trade of Grimes County and will conduct stores
at Navasota and Bryan. The Bohemians are joining the alliance. A lodge was organized
at their settlement near College Station Tuesday night, with some forty members. From
Dallas Morning News, Aug.19, 1886, reprinted Aug.19, 1936.
Col. H.B. STODDARD, a well-known cattleman of Bryan, reached Dallas yesterday en
route home from the Knights Templar conclave at St. Louis, where he was elected grand
junior warder by the convention. From Dallas Morning News, Sept.30, 1885, reprinted
Sept.30, 1935.
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The STODDARD Hotel at Bryan has been remodeled and refitted and is now under the
management of J.L. BARNES. From Dallas Morning News, Oct.24, 1886, reprinted
Oct.24, 1936.
The annual meeting of the Brazos County Bible Society, which is a branch of the
American Bible Society with headquarters in New York City, met Sunday night at the
Methodist Episcopal Church of Bryan. Dr. F.M. LAW presided due to the absence of Dr.
RANKIN, the president. Speeches were made by the Rev. Daniel SMITH and Judge
THOMAS. Officers were elected as follows: E.C. FERGUSON, president; Lem HALL,
secretary, and G.W . NEW ELL, treasurer. From Dallas Morning News, Feb.22, 1887,
reprinted Feb.22, 1937.
Judge CEARNAL of Bryan, who came to Texas at an early day from North Carolina,
dropped dead at his home Tuesday evening. He had served his precinct as Justice of
Peace for six consecutive terms. General STODDARD, Bryan, president of the Texas
Cattle Association, has received a letter from the Veterinary Sanitary Board of Colorado
in which said board has made some stringent rules and regulations relative to admission
of Texas cattle into Colorado. From the Dallas Morning News, Apr.28, 1887, reprinted
Apr.28, 1937.
Dallas … According to the News' Bryan dispatch, Capt. James MORONEY of this city,
and Miss Nona McQUEEN, daughter of the late T.J. McQUEEN of Bryan, were married
yesterday in the Catholic Church of that town by Father MARTIERE of this city assisted by
Father LASKI of Bryan. During the ceremony Miss Hettie PAGE of Bryan, sang a beautiful
song. Attendants were W ill MORONNEY and Miss Minnie DERDEN, T.B. McQUEEN and
Miss Sallie HOW ELL, J.A. McQUEEN and Miss Minnie HEREFORD of Dallas, J.P.
CHANCE and Miss Mamie W EAR of San Antonio, Ed HALL and Miss Grace
BUFFINGTON of Anderson and W.S. HOW ELL and Miss Lena ADAMS. From Dallas
Morning News, June 10, 1887, reprinted June 10, 1937.
Fire at Bryan at 1 o'clock Sunday afternoon destroyed William KOPPE's store and
caused a total damage estimated at $40,000. From Dallas Morning News, July 11, 1887,
reprinted July 11, 1937.
Dallas … Misses Ray and Laura SIMS of Bryan are visiting Mrs. L.W . CLARK on
Cumberland Hill. From Dallas Morning News, July 13, 1887, reprinted July 13, 1937.
Hon. J.N. HENDERSON of Bryan has been appointed to the District Judgeship made
vacant by the appointment of Judge W.E. COLLARD as Commissioner of Appeals. From
Dallas Morning News, Sept.16, 1887, reprinted Sept.16, 1937.
Dallas … Mrs. Cliff ADAMS of Bryan is the guest of her sister, Mrs. James MORONEY
Jr., on North Harwood Street. From Dallas Morning News, Oct.24, 1887, reprinted Oct. 24,
1937.
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Mr. James M. ROBINSON of Hempstead died in Bryan on Thursday morning.
Proprietor of two stores and the Junction Hotel at Hempstead, Mr. ROBINSON leaves a
wife, six sons and a daughter to mourn his death. From Dallas Morning News, Dec.2,
1887, reprinted Dec.2, 1937.
L. BANKS, a teacher in the Bryan city schools and son of Superintendent W .A. BANKS
and Miss Lena ADAMS, daughter of Capt. J.J. ADAMS, were married in the Christian
Church at Bryan Thursday. The attendants were S.H. HICKMAN and Miss Hettie PAGE,
J.T. HANW AY and Miss Jennie HARRIS, Ernest ADAMS and Miss Kate BANKS, W ill
DAVIS and Miss Maud HARLAN of Calvert, Sam PARKER and Miss W illie ROGERS, W .R.
W YSE and Miss Lulu W EBB, Robert ARMSTRONG and Miss Maggie FULKERSON and
Paschal BUFORD and Miss Sallie HOW ELL. From Dallas Morning News, Dec.26, 1887,
reprinted Dec.26, 1937.
The Brazos Pilot and Texas Blade, at Bryan, have been consolidated, and the business
will be conducted by a joint stock company, the Central Texas Publishing Company.
Directors for the current year are R.M. SMITH, Dawson ADMIRE, O. HUCKABEE and W .L.
TURNER. From the Dallas Morning News, Jan.5, 1888, reprinted Jan.5, 1938.
Dallas … Col. R.A. BRANTLEY of Bryan is in the city for the purpose of organizing a
lodge of the A.O.U.W . From Dallas Morning News, Aug.7, 1888, reprinted Aug.7, 1938.
Gov. L.S. ROSS has appointed Prof. W .L. BRINGHURST of the A. & M. College
commissioner for Texas at the international exposition at Paris, France. From Dallas
Morning News, Aug.24, 1888, reprinted Aug.24, 1938.
Judge D.C. BARMORE died at Bryan Sept.13. He had been County Judge at Bryan
since adoption of the present constitution. From Dallas Morning News, Sept.15, 1888,
reprinted Sept.15, 1938.
Dallas … Judge J.T. THOMAS of Bryan is in the city looking after the erection of his
new dwelling. From Dallas Morning News, Oct.9, 1888, reprinted Oct.9, 1938.
Captain FOWLKES of Bryan has purchased the 900-acre LACKEY irrigated farm near
San Angelo for $12,500. From Dallas Morning News, Oct.23, 1888, reprinted Oct.23,
1938.
Dallas … Joe MUSTACHEA of Bryan was married yesterday to Miss Ida MILLER of
Dallas, at the residence of her stepfather, Frank MILLER. From Dallas Morning News,
Oct.24, 1888, reprinted Oct.24, 1938.
Dallas … W .R. HOW ELL of Bryan is in the city preparatory to opening a wholesale
business in Dallas on Jan.1. From Dallas Morning News, Nov.30, 1888, reprinted Nov.30,
1938.
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Dallas … Charles W . GUILD has sold 75x100 feet, southwest corner Main and Field,
with a two-story building, to I.G. RANDLE of Brazos County for $61,500. From the Dallas
Morning News, June 14, 1889, reprinted June 14, 1939.
The last day of the State Farmers' Alliance convention in Dallas, Saturday, was a busy
one. The board of twenty-five trustees was abolished, and a smaller board of directors,
one for each Congressional district, was named. This board met immediately and named
S.D.A. DUNCAN of Brazos County, president; J.T. CRAW FORD of Stephens County,
secretary-treasurer. From Dallas Morning News, Aug.25, 1889, reprinted Aug.25, 1939.
Joseph H. BROWN, a native of Plattsburg, Ga., died yesterday at Bryan. From Dallas
Morning News, Nov.17, 1889, reprinted Nov.17, 1939.
Three cases of robbery occurred night before last at Bryan. The homes of Robert
TABOR, J.F. DEARLING and E.L. W ARD were entered. From Dallas Morning News,
Dec.13, 1889, reprinted Dec.13, 1939.
Constable W .R. MILLICAN of Millican was killed last night by gunfire when he
investigated a disturbance near a grocery store. From Dallas Morning News, Dec.16,
1889, reprinted Dec.16, 1939.
Bryan reports that Negro laborers have been imported from North Carolina and are
employed on plantations along the Brazos. From Dallas Morning News, Feb.12, 1890,
reprinted Feb.11, 1940.
The John DAVIS residence at Bryan was destroyed by fire, which was thought to have
originated from a defective flue. From Dallas Morning News, Feb.28, 1890, reprinted
Feb.27, 1940.
J.A. MEYERS, who resigned recently as clerk of Brazos County, took office as
post-master at Bryan. From Dallas Morning News, March 4, 1890, reprinted March 3,
1940.
The family of Col. Tom ARMSTRONG of Bryan announced the forthcoming marriage
on W ednesday of their only daughter, Miss Annie ARMSTRONG, to Robert E.L. KNIGHT
of Dallas. From Dallas Morning News, May 26, 1890, reprinted May 25, 1940.
Editor R.M. SMITH of the Bryan Eagle announced as a candidate for State Senator in
opposition to Scott FIELD of Calvert. From Dallas Morning News, June 29, 1890, reprinted
June 28, 1940.
Three Negro youths were held at Bryan in connection with the robbery of G.W.
NORRELL's drugstore. From Dallas Morning News, Nov.28, 1890, reprinted Nov. 28,
1940.
8
The Bryan Pilot reported that its city will soon have a new railroad depot. From Dallas
Morning News, Dec.24, 1890, reprinted Dec.23, 1940.
Brazos Lodge No.64, Knights of Pythias, at Bryan held a masquerade ball. From Dallas
Morning News, Jan.2, 1891, reprinted Jan.1, 1941.
Dallas … W illiam H. FLIPPEN, senior member of the banking firm of FLIPPEN, ADOUE
& LOBIT, died at his home, 835 Ross Avenue, of heart disease. He was born near
Gallatin, Tenn., March 4, 1839, and moved to Galveston in 1866, where he started as a
clerk in the house of Maurice KOPPERL. He moved to Bryan in 1868 and shortly afterward
entered the banking business. He came to Dallas in 1880 upon the formation of the
banking firm. He served as City Treasurer of Dallas for three terms. He is survived by his
wife and four children. Funeral services will be held at St. Matthew's Cathedral. From
Dallas Morning News, Jan.18, 1891, reprinted Jan.17, 1941.
Dallas - Col. and Mrs. T.E. ARMSTRONG, formerly of Bryan, left for their new home
in Gainesville, following a visit hear with their daughter, Mrs. Robert E.L. KNIGHT. From
Dallas Morning News, Feb.25, 1891, reprinted Feb.24, 1941.
Austin. Two weeks since pretty little invitations were mailed to society announcing that
one of Austin's belles, Miss Ida F. NEW TON, had been captured in marriage by a
prominent young merchant of Bryan, W .E. ASTIN. The ceremony was performed
W ednesday evening in the magnificent Tenth Street Methodist Church, which was
brilliantly illuminated and decorated and filled to overflowing with the elite of this city. From
Dallas Morning News, March 23, 1891, reprinted March 22, 1941.
Bryan - At a meeting of the City Council the Hon. J.A. BUCKHOLTS was elected to the
office of city recorder. A number of liverymen from different parts of the state arrived for
the opening of their annual convention. The local committee showed them over the city
and then gave them a tour of nearby Texas A. & M. College. From Dallas Morning News,
Apr.16, 1891, reprinted Apr.15, 1891.
Bryan: Mrs. C.A. ENGLISH, 72, died at the residence of her son-in-law, Gen. H.B.
STODDARD, this morning. From Dallas Morning News, July 3, 1891, reprinted July 2,
1941.
Dallas … Capt. J.S. FOW LKES, formerly of Bryan, has bought the new ALEXANDER
residence in the Oaks on Gaston Avenue. From Dallas Morning News, Jan.27, 1892,
reprinted Jan.26, 1942.
Bryan - Citizens visited J. SCHWARZ, manager of the opera house, and asked him to
cancel the engagement of Uncle Tom's Cabin. The populace fear that the play will arouse
ill-feeling and fan the fires of sectional disagreement. From Dallas Morning News, Feb.19,
1892, reprinted Feb.18, 1892.
9
Dallas … Col. M.W . SIMS of Bryan arrived in Dallas to take an active part in the
Confederate Reunion. Capt. G.A. GORDN and C.W . GORDON, the latter editor of the
Central Texan, also arrived for the festivities and paid a call on The News. From Dallas
Morning News, Apr.5, 1892, reprinted Apr.4, 1942.
Dallas … H.B. STODDARD, Adjutant General of the Texas Division, United
Confederate Veterans, came in from Bryan. He was entertained by Gen. W .L. CABELL
and staff. From Dallas Morning News, May 18, 1892, reprinted May 17, 1942.
Bryan - Prof. A.E. KIRKPATRICK of this city has accepted a position for the summer
with a railroad in Mexico and leaves shortly for that place. From Dallas Morning News,
June 25, 1892, reprinted June 24, 1942.
Bryan: The anniversary of the first battle of Manassas or Bull Run, which took place
July 21, 1861, was celebrated here by fifteen Confederate veterans meeting in the office
of George W. SMITH. Toasts were drunk in champagne punch by various gentlemen.
From Dallas Morning News, July 24, 1892, reprinted July 23, 1942.
Longview - Mr. and Mrs. J.H. CARTER and daughter, Miss Minnie CARTER, returned
to their home in Bryan after a month spent pleasantly with relatives in this city. From
Dallas Morning News, Aug.7, 1892, reprinted Aug.7, 1942.
Bryan - Capt. C.S. GAINES informed Adjt. Gen. W .H. MABRY at Austin that the Bryan
Light Infantry has voted to withdraw from the Texas Volunteer Guard and to disband.
Action grew out of dissatisfaction over the recent state encampment at Austin. Captain
GAINES cited the arrogance and dictatorial conduct of many commissioned officers above
the rank of captain as one cause of the dissatisfaction. From Dallas Morning News,
Aug.19, 1892, reprinted Aug.18, 1942.
Austin - The state encampment of colored militia opened this morning. The four
companies are the Excelsior Guards, San Antonio; Ireland Rifles, Seguin; Brazos Light
Guards, Bryan; Capital City Guards, Austin. From Dallas Morning News, Aug.25, 1892,
reprinted Aug.24, 1942.
Millican - A rear-end collision occurred here this morning involving two freight trains.
No.7, northbound, was standing at the depot when No.11 came around the curve under
a full head of steam. No one was hurt. From Dallas Morning News, Oct.28, 1892,
reprinted Oct.27, 1942.
Bryan - A.Y. SMITH died at the home of D. SMYTHE in Bryan from the effects of being
thrown from a buggy one day last week while driving near A. & M. College. From Dallas
Morning News, Dec.11, 1892, reprinted Dec.10, 1942.
Bryan - The Christmas party at Mrs. Fannie I. GARTH's for members of the St.
Andrew's Episcopal Sunday school was quite a success. From Dallas Morning News,
10
Dec.27, 1892, reprinted Dec.26, 1942.
Bryan - Mayor Clifford ADAMS gave official notice that an election will be held on the
first Tuesday in April to choose a city marshal, three aldermen and a city secretary. From
Dallas Morning News, Feb.19, 1893, reprinted Feb.18, 1943.
Bryan - Saturday there were shipped from Bryan forty-three head of beef cattle, the
prettiest ever seen in this place. They were from the experiment station of the Texas A.
& M. College and were fed under the direction of Prof. George W . CURTIS on cottonseed
and cottonseed products as an experiment. From Dallas Morning News, Mar.28, 1893,
reprinted Mar.27, 1943.
Bryan - Mrs. Seletha ERW IN, 69 years of age, died here today. From the Dallas
Morning News, Apr.18, 1893, reprinted Apr.17, 1943.
Bryan - This city is to have a free wagon yard. Merchants have subscribed a purse of
$500 to provide a lot and feed stables. From the Dallas Morning News, Apr.24, 1893,
reprinted Apr.23, 1943.
Bryan - The colored population is making extensive preparations for their emancipation
celebration here tomorrow. From Dallas Morning News, July 1, 1893, reprinted June 30,
1943.
Bryan - The 18-year-old boy preacher, the Rev. Charles A. BURTON, began a
protracted meeting at the Christian Church this morning. He made a good impression.
From Dallas Morning News, July 18, 1893, reprinted July 17, 1943.
SUNDAY SHOOTING
Transcribed by Regina OPERSTENY from the Dallas Morning News 3-19-1888.
Just before the North Bound train arrived on Sunday morning, Harry THOMPSON ran
through the depot with shots being fired at him. M. BONNEVILLE fired two shots and his
son, Louis BONNEVILLE fired three shots. The shots were fired at close range but
THOMPSON received only a slight flesh wound in the leg and one in his shoulder.
The two Bonneville's were arrested along with Ed LACOUTRE, who was with them.
They refused to make any statement but it is known there has been bad blood between
THOMPSON and the BONNEVILLE's. THOMPSON is M. BONNEVILLE's son-in-law.
THOMPSON was tried for assault to murder M. BONNEVILLE at the last court term by
poisoning.
11
NEWSPAPER ODDS AND ENDS, 1868-1894
compiled by Bill PAGE
Bryan, Dec. 13 - A German by the name of A. REISENBOYNER while riding out of town
this evening was thrown from his horse against a post and instantly killed. He was about
60 years old and a carpenter by trade. Several fine residences are now being built, among
the number a handsome residence by Mr. T.E. ARMSTRONG… RECTOR & ADAMS'
stock, which was attached some days ago, is now advertised for sale. They have been
trying to make arrangements to resume business but have failed, owing to a disagreement
of creditors. Dallas Morning News, 14 December 1886, p.5
W ellborn, Tex., April 18 - The long continued drouth came to a close to-day. Quite a
refreshing shower fell here this morning, and prospects are good for a heavy rain to-night.
Farmers are wearing smiles. Dallas Morning News, 17 April 1887, p.2
Bryan, Texas, Jan.17 - All the prisoners, nine in number, in the jail of this (Brazos)
County made their escape last evening last evening by burrowing under the wall. One of
them came in and surrendered after a few hours, saying it was so cold he could not stand
it in the woods. Among the escaped prisoners are the three men who robbed the post
office at Millican, for whom the Sheriff offered a reward of $1,000. New York Times, 18
January 1888, p.10.
The Bryan Pilot is sorry to learn that Mr. J. BURIATO, editor of the Slovan, is quite ill.
Galveston Daily News, 3 October 1888, p.3, col.1
Bryan, Tex., Feb. 14 - Irving RANDLE and Tom BOYETT had an altercation to-day
which culminated in their exchanging several shots. BOYETT fell shot in the leg and foot,
and is seriously but not fatally wounded, as far as can be learned. The cause of the affair
was trivial, both parties being somewhat in liquor. RANDLE has been arrested. Dallas
Morning News, 15 February 1889, p.8
Bryan, Texas, Feb.16 - Eight miles east of Bryan, on the afternoon of the 14th, a
difficulty took place between John SMITH and W illiam DANSBY, at the home of the latter.
SMITH was struck on the top of the head with a W inchester rifle, and died yesterday from
the effects of the blow. DANSBY was held under $10,000 bonds, which he immediately
gave. Both were highly respected and well-to-do planters. After hearing of SMITH's death
DANSBY killed himself by blowing his brains out with a pistol this evening. New York
Times, 17 February 1890, p.1
Bryan, Tex., March 3 - Mr. J.A. MEYERS resigned his position as clerk of Brazos
County on the 1st and the same day took charge of the post office at this place. Mr.
MEYERS was postmaster at Bryan during the last Republican administration and though
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Mr. TABOR, the retiring postmaster has made an excellent official and was universally
esteemed, yet when it was known a change was to be made the public was glad to learn
that the position was to be filled by so acceptable a man as Mr. MEYERS. Mr. J.W.
BARRON was appointed to fill the office made vacant by Mr. MEYERS' resignation. Dallas
Morning News, 4 March 1890, p.2
Benchly, Brazos Co., Tex., March 25 - Farmers in this section are a little behind with
their work owing to so much recent rain, but now they are having fine weather and are
progressing splendidly with their work. About two-thirds of the corn is planted and cotton
lands are very nearly all plowed. Grass and water are in abundance and all kinds of stock
is doing well in these parts. Col. C.C. SEALE, a prominent stock raiser living one mile from
this place, while returning from the town of Bryan to his home was thrown from his hack
by his team running away with him and was seriously but not fatally hurt. Dallas Morning
News, 26 March 1890, p.6
Bryan, Tex., Dec. 12 - Arrangements have been made to have a jack rabbit chase on
Burton's prairie, some six miles northeast of Bryan. A large number of swift-footed
greyhounds have been engaged for the sport, including some famous dogs from
neighboring counties. Dallas Morning News, 14 December 1891, p.6
Bryan, Texas, May 9 - The Houston and Texas Central railroad people are building a
neat freight depot at the college. Lieutenant B.C. MORSE of College has erected a great
high flag staff from which the stars and stripes float now. Houston Post, 10 May 1892, p.8,
col.4
Bryan's first bale of cotton has been received and the first bale "chestnut" is passed to
the next point. It was raised by a colored man, Hilliard JONES, on his own farm near
Bryan, was ginned by G.S. PARKER, weighed and handled at the Bryan Brick warehouse
by J.M. GATES, sold to James O. CHANCE for 10 cents a pound, weighed 525 pounds
and classed strict middling. Messrs. James O. CHANCE and James GATES gave Hilliard
a purse of $11.40. Houston Daily Post, 31 July 1892, pt.2, p.15, col.2
Bryan, Tex., Aug. 20 - The split-up of the State militia has started, the Bryan Light
Infantry having disbanded and returned its commission. Capt. C.S. GAINER, in his letter
to Adj. Gen. MABRY, says the whole Texas volunteer guard is going to pieces. He
charges the superior officers with favoritism and conduct unbecoming soldiers or
gentlemen in favoring certain companies in the encampment decisions, in assailing the
character of officers and men, and in denying them a hearing. Politics has entered the
ranks of the militia, and it promises to wind up like the Democratic convention did.
W ashington Post, 21 August 1892, p.7
The Bryan Light Guard (colored) left today for Austin with about thirty-two men in all,
in command of Captain Lewis JOHNSON, for the State encampment. The depot was
thronged with Negroes today to say good-bye, and their sponsor stacked up immense.
Houston Daily Post, 24 August 1892, p.2, col.2
13
W ellborn, Tex., Sept. 7 - Saturday Major BEANE, a genial old gentleman of Brazos
County, was out with a party of friends chasing the wild deer, but being unsuccessful he
left the party to return home. Sunday his nonappearance caused uneasiness at home and
friends went out in search of him. He is supposed to have been seized with apoplexy soon
after his separation from the other hunters and to have fallen from his horse, as he was
found in the forest Monday at noon in an unconscious condition with his head and face
infested with worms. He was taken home and tenderly cared for, but died in a few hours.
Dallas Morning News, 8 September 1892, p.5
Bryan, Tex., May 10 - At a recent meeting of the school trustees Major W .A. BANKS
was re-elected superintendent of the graded schools, with Prof. T.S. MINTER as principal
and Prof. S.H. HICKMAN assistant principal. An able corps of teachers were elected to
assist these gentlemen in the lower grades, ranging from first to seventh. The music
department will be under the control of Mrs. Irene GARTNER and Miss Sue McLELLAND.
The term of session was reduced from ten to nine months … Mr. J.C. W INGO, pastor of
the First Baptist Church at this place, has been granted a leave of absence of two months
to attend the national Baptist convention at Nashville, Tenn., and also his old home in
Georgia. Dallas Morning News, 12 May 1893, p.6
Bryan, Tex., Aug. 20 - Commissioners' court adjourned yesterday until next Saturday.
The members of the court visited the poor farm to investigate a report that two paupers had
been buried in such shallow graves that the tops of the coffins were hardly below the
surface of the ground. The court ordered that the bodies be taken up and reburied. Dallas
Morning News, 22 August 1893, p.6
Bryan, Tex., Oct.6 - W.H. HARRIS' show exhibited here yesterday and last night.
During the performance last night about 8 o'clock a storm blew the tent down on a large
crowd of spectators, and for a time pandemonium reigned. The wind blew furiously, the
ladies and children squalled and there was a general scramble for the outside. Fortunately
few people were hurt. One of the center poles blew down on a circus bandman named
FOX and broke his leg in two places. The gale did not last long, but was accompanied with
some rain and a blinding electrical storm. Dallas Morning News, 8 October 1893, p.4
Bryan, Brazos Co., Tex., Jan.4 - Charley PATTERSON and W ill RUDISILL became
involved in a difficulty yesterday afternoon and PATTERSON received a deep cut on the
left check and RUDISILL got his head hurt slightly. He was arrested and gave bond for
$400. Dallas Morning News, 5 January 1894, p.2
Bryan, Tex., Jan. 5 - The News man saw two Negroes on the street each of whom had
his left eye knocked out while getting cordwood. The ball was bursted in one case and had
to be removed. Harry DILLISHAW had a briar about one inch long taken from his finger
after it had remained there seven years. Dallas Morning News, 7 January 1894, p.8
Bryan, Tex., July 15 - A man named PICO is in jail here today charged with making
threats and demonstrations against members of his family. He has been an invalid for
14
several years. Dallas Morning News, 16 July 1894, p.4
Bryan, Tex., Sept.16 - A maddog scare occurred on Main Street this morning. A dog
with rabies attacked five other dogs at different points and was killed after being chased
about a mile. Dallas Morning News, 17 Sept.1894, p.8
Check List of Texas Imprints, 1861 - 1876
Transcribed by John P. BLAIR
The information in this article was cataloged in the pages of Check List of Texas Imprints,
1861 - 1876. Edited by Ernest W. WINKLER, (Austin: The Texas State Historical
Association, 1963). I was able to obtain copies of the original pamphlet at the Barker
History Center on the campus of the University of Texas.
W hile the information contained might strike some as rather insignificant, others will
enjoy the long forgotten place names, the spelling of certain towns, i.e. "Cleabourn" and
some of the statements, such as Henry MOLLENBERNDT, who will gladly recommend the
gin to his "German friends," but what about his other friends that are not of German origin?
Or, of those who would "want no better"? W hy wouldn't you want something better if you
could get it? Needless to say, I thought this to be interesting and a nice addition to Bryan's
historical record.
W hen reading these testimonials one cannot help but wonder how much was written
by Mr. CHATHAM himself - see if you can determine how many times the phrase "entire
satisfaction" and "bought of you" are contained within the letters. W ho knows, maybe
someone might find a lost relative here.
R. K. CHATHAM
Manufacturer of and Dealer in
Cotton Gins and Grist Mills,
Bryan, Texas.
TO THE PLANTERS OF TEXAS
In calling your attention to the merits of my Gins and Mills, I beg leave to announce that,
owing to the encouragement received the past year, I have greatly increased my facilities
for their manufacture to supply the increasing demand, and while I do not claim any special
15
merit for these Gins and Mills on account of home production, I do claim for light draught
, good sample, speed and finish, they are equal if not superior to any in use, and it is with
confidence that I refer to the ONE THOUSAND planters who have been using my Gins and
Mills since 1867. I employ none but the most efficient workmen, and men who are perfectly
familiar with the business - having worked in the best manufactories North and East, which
enables me to keep pace with the improvements of the times. Appended will be found a
few of the many certificates from planters who have been using my Gins and Mills for the
past year to which I invite your attention.
I am prepared to manufacture both CORN and W HEAT mills, and it is with I can say
I have sold over 200 of these mills in the past five years, giving entire satisfaction in every
case. Persons desirous of ordering can do so through my agents, or send directly to me.
Feeling thankful for the encouragement of the past, I respectfully solicit a continuance.
R. K. CHATHAM.
Bryan, Texas, March 1st, 1873.
CERTIFICATES
Oakland, Colorado Co., Tex.
October 8 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have one of your improved 50 saw Gins, and it fills the bill exactly. It seems
to be durable, and for light draught, good sample, clean seed, I don't want any better. I
think any one wishing to buy, had better buy of you, than to go any where else.
B. MOLLER.
Acton, Hood Co., Tex.
November 10 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 50 and 60 saw Gins I bought of you has given satisfaction, and I think
they are as good if not superior to any gins in our country. I advice all persons wishing gins
to buy of you, as I think it would be greatly to their interest.
Samuel M. ORBINSON.
Milford, Ellis Co., Tex.
October 5 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 40 saw Gin I bought of you, gives entire satisfaction, and I can gin two
and a half bales of cotton per day, with two horses.
D. HAYNES.
Corsicana, Tex.
October, 1872.
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - W e have been using one of your 60 saw gins and 20 inch Mills for two years.
16
They are a success. They have never been out of order in the least. W e have ginned a
bale in an hour, and have ground a bushel of corn in two minutes. There is no need of
better gins and mills than yours.
J. L. COMPERE.
I fully attest to the above. I feed the gin, and measured the corn myself, and saw it
timed.
Thomas H. COMPERE.
Bethel, Henderson Co., Tex.
January 3d, 1873.
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 60 saw gins that I bought of you in the fall is all you claim for it. It makes
good sample, cleans the seed, and has given satisfaction to myself, and to my neighbors
D. M. THOMPSON.
Cleabourn, Johnson Co., Tex.
December 27 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have one of your 75 saw Gins, now in use, and have tested it thoroughly.
I can gin a bale per hour, making good sample, cleaning seed, and turn out. It is all you
claim for it.
John STUBBLEFIELD.
New Ulm, Austin Co., Tex.
October 4 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have purchased one of your improved 50 saw Gins, this fall from one of
your agents, and I take pleasure in informing you that for good work in every respect, I
want no better. A man is perfectly safe in buying your gins.
Phillip W ITTER.
Utah, Limestone Co., Tex.
January 31 , 1873.st
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - In answer to yours of 16th instant, in regard to the gin I purchased of you a
few years ago - it has given satisfaction up to the present time. I find it to be substantial,
and efficient in all its appointments. It is as good as I wish, and I can safely recommend
your gins for good work, and durability.
Capt. A. T. MOSS.
Near Rock Wall, Dallas Co., Tex.
November 6 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I bought of you a 50 saw Gin in September last, and I am pleased to say that
it gives entire satisfaction. It does good work, and I like the way it is constructed.
17
W . B. JOHNSON & Bro.
Deer Creek, Falls Co., Tex.
October 28 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 60 saw Gin we bought of your last Fall has been given up to be the best
in the neighborhood. W e don't think it can be too highly recommended.
HUGHES & SCOTT.
Seyne, Dallas Co., Tex.
Oct. 10 , 1872.th
MR. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 60 saw Gin purchased of you, I am entirely satisfied with. I have ginned
one thousand bales of cotton on it, and it is as good as it was at first. I am ginning four
bales per day with common gin house geering. I take great pleasure in recommending
them as in every way suitable to the wants of the planter.
F. V. HUMPHRIES.
W eller's Gin, Lavaca Co., Tex.
Oct. 8 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - Your agent called to sell me a gin last Spring; at that time I didn't need a gin;
in fact, I was almost afraid to purchase, having not seen any of your gins, but he
represented it so highly I bought one, size 70 saws. It exceeds by far all my expectations.
I can gin ten bales per day; I don't want any better.
Respectfully,
August W ELLER.
Nolen River, Hill Co., Tex.
November 1 , 1872.st
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - Your gin gives me entire satisfaction. Any person desiring a good gin, would
do well to purchase of you. I don' think there is any better made.
R. C. DONALDSON.
Columbus, Tex.
October 5 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The gin I bought from you has given satisfaction. They are good.
C. BURGER.
Owensville, Robertson Co., Tex.
December 1 , 1872.st
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have one of your improved gins, and it has given satisfaction. I with pleasure
recommend it to the people.
18
McNoriel BROW N.
Peria, Hill Co., Tex.
December 29 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 50 saw gin that I bought of you this fall is giving entire satisfaction. It
makes beautif ul samples and with four horses I can gin four bales per day.
A. R. FAUCHER.
Mill Creek, Austin Co., Tex.
October 18 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have one of your improved 70 saw Gins and it performs far beyond my
expectations. I can gin ten bales per day.
Charley FORDTRANE.
Crockett, Houston Co., Tex.
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 50 saw gin stand I purchased of you last fall gives entire satisfaction.
Cleans the seed thoroughly, and makes a staple that classes with the best. I have ginned
about 90 bales of cotton, and have not lost a minutes time, by the gin being out of order
Charles STOKES.
Crockett, January 9 , 1873.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The gin I bought from you last fall has given entire satisfaction. It cleans the
seed, motes well, and makes a sample that demand the best prices. We can safely
recommend the gin to those wishing to purchase, as cheap, reliable and durable.
DR. F. L. MERIW ETHER.
Dog Town, Burleson Co., Tex.
December 20 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The Gin (70 saws,) and 24 inch Mill, I boughs of you, has given entire
satisfaction. I can gin ten bale per day, and can grind 300 bushels of corn per day. It is al
you claim for it.
Robert McDONALD.
Magnolia, Anderson Co.., Tex.
January 1 , 1873.st
RR. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 40 saw Gin, I bought of you, gives entire satisfaction, I can gin four bales
per day.
J. R. PARKER.
19
Krohnnerville, Burleson Co., Tex.
December 25 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 70 saw gin I purchased of you this last fall, has given entire satisfaction,
both to my customers, and to myself. I have had experience in the use of gins, and have
seen a great many of different makes perform, but there is none that is any better than
yours. I am certain that it would be to every ones interest that wants a good gin, to buy of
you
G. N. KROHNE.
Davidson Creek, Burleson Co., Tex.
October 26 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have ground about three hundred bushels of corn on the Mill I purchased
of you, and find it to be complete and efficient in all its appointments. I have an experience
of thirty years in the use of grain-Mills, and I feel no hesitancy in saying it is the best mill
to its dimensions, I have ever seen. I will pay a forfit of fifty dollars in gold, to any one in the
State of Texas of Straubs, or Colman's mills of the same capacity that will equal it in
quantity and quality of meal per hour.
D. G. W OOD.
Mustang Mills, Johnson Co., Tex.
December 28 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - W e have one of your improved 24 inch corn Mills, for grinding we don't think
it has an equal. W e can grind thirty bushels of good meal per hour. Our days work from 10
to 12 hours is from 250 to 300 bushels corm. W e don't think the world can beat it.
W HITED & PALMER.
San Andrews, Milam Co., Tex.
January 8 , 1873.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have one of your improved 24 inch corn Mills, and it has given entire and
complete satisfaction. I can grind from 250 to 300 bushels of good meal per day. I am
pleased with the workmanship, as well as the workings of the mill.
P. M. KOLB.
Groesbeck, Tex.
December 18 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have one of your improved 45 saw Gins, and can gin four bales per day,
making beautiful sample, I take pleasure in recommending it to the people.
John T. YOUNG.
20
Woodland, Freestone Co., Tex.
October 22 , 1872.nd
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The gin you sent me, gives entire satisfaction. I ginned yesterday 5 or 6 bales
of lint cotton in three hours with four horses. It runs light, does it's work well and fast.
W . H. TERRELL.
Head Prairie, Limestone Co., Tex.
October 1 , 1872.st
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The gin you sent me, I must say, is the best I ever used. I have had your gin
three seasons, and its work is still satisfactory. It does good work, and I can recommend
it for durability.
W . J. PHIFER.
Moffat-Town, Bell Co., Tex.
October 27 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - You wish to know how we are pleased with your improved gin. W e are well
pleased. W e have a 50 saw Gin, steam power, and can gin seven bales per day, making
good sample, and cleaning the seed well.
J. SPOONTS & SON.
Caldwell, Burleson Co., Tex.
January 17 , 1873.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 24 inch improved Mill I bought of you, surpasses my expectations. It can
not be excelled in any way for the size. I do not hesitate to recommend it.
J. W . WYET.
Belton, Bell Co., Tex.
November 20th, 1872.
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The gin we bought of you last fall, is a good one. W e are satisfied, and
recommend it.
JILES & COSBY.
Wadeville, Navarro Co., Tex.
September 25 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The gin, and mill I bought of you, I don't think can be surpassed. I have
noticed that the cotton ginned at my gin, brought the highest market price. The speed is
entirely satisfactory, and in conclusion I will say that any one wanting any thing in your line,
would do well to buy of you.
D. D. HASSELL.
21
Waco, Tex.
November 9 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 70 saw Gin I bought of you has given entire satisfaction. I have been
using different makes of gins on this place for fifteen years, and your's surpasses them all.
It makes nice sample, and does its work well, and fast.
A. BLANKINSHIP.
Kimbrel, Bosque Co., Tex.
December 1 , 1872.st
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - In answer to yours, I will say that the 50 saw Gin, I bought of you is a good
one. I am ginning 5 to 6 bales per day. It makes good sample, cleans seed well, and for
wet or damp cotton, I don't think it can be excelled.
W . C. ROBINSON.
Prairie Valley, Hill Co., Tex.
January 1 , 1873.st
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - It affords us pleasure to say to you that the 60 saw Gin, we bought of you last
fall, gives entire satisfaction. We have given it a thorough test, and can gin in day light, ten
bales per day.
W ALLING, GILLETT & CO.
Neese's Store, Fayette Co., Tex.
Oct. 14 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have been running your improved "Grist Mill," that Mr. Neese bought of you,
and it is admitted by all that have seen it that it equals any, if not surpasses any mill that
is made. Mr. NEESE could not have been better pleased. I admire its structure and
workmanship, as well as the working of your mill.
Marshal B. OBAR.
Contents, Colorado Co., Tex.
Oct. 6 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have one of your improved 70 saw Gins, and it performs as well as I could
wish. I have steam power, and can gin ten bales per day. I have no hesitancy in
recommending it to the people.
W illiam OKER.
Dresden, Navarro Co., Tex.
December 25 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 50 saw Gin we purchased of you this fall has given entire satisfaction.
22
As for clean see, and of good sample, no one could complain.
J. N. & W . C. W ILKERSON.
Columbus, October 5 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have tested to my entire satisfaction, one of your improved cotton gins, and
I greatly prefer it to any I have ever used. I don't wish any better.
Joseph BURTTSCHELL.
Neese's Store, Fayette Co., Tex.
October 14 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I bought one of your improved gins, and I think there is no better made. I
gladly recommend it to my German friends.
HY. MOLLENBERNDT.
Kosse, Limestone Co., Tex.
October 16th, 1872.
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The two 60 saw Gins, one I bought last year, and one this year, both have
given entire satisfaction. It is all that would be required of a first class gin, for doing its work
well and fast.
A. J. SOW DERS.
Welcome, Austin Co., Tex.
October 3d, 1872.
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The Gin I purchased for this season has excelled by far any gin, I ever used.
Seraphim W OHLER.
Belton, Bell Co., Tex.
October 18 , 1872..th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have one of your improved gins, and it is all you recommend it to be. I can
gin with six mules, five bales per day.
T. J. REESE.
Willow Springs, Milam Co., Tex.
January 16 , 1873.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have one of your improved 50 saw Gins now in use, and I must inform you
that I am well pleased. I can gin with four horses four bales per day. I think them fully equal
to their flattering reputation.
Respectfully,
M. C. ALLEN.
23
Washington Co., Tex.
November 11 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I am glad to be able to inform you that the 80 saw Gin I purchased of you is
first-class. I can turn out twelve bales per day, making good sample, and cleaning the
seed.
Thomas S. HENDERSON.
Pleasant Hill, Houston Co., Tex.
December 10 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 60 saw Gin I bought of you in the fall, gives entire satisfaction. I don't
want any better.
John W . WILLIAMS.
Calvert, Tex.
December 12 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I bought one of your improved gins this fall and I am well pleased. It performs
elegantly, as well as any one could desire. For sample, clean seed, is entirely satisfactory.
Andrew KNAPP.
Elgin, Bastrop Co., Tex.
November 28 , 1872.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 5 0 saw Gin I purchased of you in July last, I have fully tested. I have
used the Pratt, and other gins, and am fully satisfied that for clean seed, good sample, and
turn-out, this has no equal. The speed satisfactory.
O. H. P. McGUINNIS.
Bethel, Anderson Co., Tex.
January 1st, 1873.
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I feel happy to inform you that the 60 saw Gin I bought of you in September
last, has given satisfaction to all of my customers, and myself. I have geen ginning all the
fall and winter with four mules, and I have no hesitancy in saying that it is as speedy and
light draft as any other sixty saw Gin now in use.
Respectfully,
J. B. BLACKIRBY.
Middletown, Leon Co., Tex.
November 12 , 1872.th
MR. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - I have been using gins for the last 25 years, and I am glad to say that the 60
saw Gin I bought of you last fall, excels any I have ever used. I admire the improvements
24
on your gins, and with pleasure recommend it to the people.
Respectfully,
Geo. W . McVEY.
Prairie Valley, Hill Co., Tex.
January 10 , 1873.th
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - The 50 saw Gin I purchased of you makes the best sample of any gin I ever
used. It does its work with neatness, and dispatch. My neighbors are well pleased with the
turn-out.
Respectfully,
James W . PAGE.
Shady Grove, Johnson Co., Tex.
November 1 , 1872.st
Mr. R. K. CHATHAM, Bryan:
Dear Sir - In reply to yours of the 25th ult. I will say that the gin (50 saw) I am well
pleased with. I am ginning 5 or 6 bales per day. It bears a good name with my customers.
I know persons that are passing other gins, and coming six or seven miles to mine. I can
with safety recommend your gins, above all others.
Respectfully,
Simon JOHNSON.
PRICE OF
Gins & Mills,
IN GOLD
Gins, all sizes, $4.50 pr. Saw.
16 inch Cologne (Cullen) Rock Mills,$115
18 " " " " " 125
20 " " " " " 140
24 " " " " " 160
18 " French Burr Rock Mill, 150
20 " " " " " 180
24 " " " " " 215
30 in. " " " " $265
25
Selected Records from the
Texas “Republic Claims Series,” 1836-1878
part 2
by Bill PAGE
The State of Texas County of Brazos
Be it remembered that at a District Court, held at the City of Bryan on the 5 day of
August 1874, the following orders were made
Susan E. McMILLAN, est. of
by W.H. McMILLAN, guardian
Aug 5, 1874
This day came to be heard the application of W.H. McMILLAN for Letters of
Guardianship on the person and Estate of Susan E. McMILLAN, a minor, and it
appearing to the Court that legal notice has been given, and no person appearing to
contest the same it is ordered that letters of guardianship issue to him upon his filing
with the Clerk of this Court a bond with sufficient sureties to be approved by the Court
in the sum of sixteen hundred dollars, and it appearing to the Court that this said bond
is now filed and approved by the Clerk it is therefore ordered that letters of guardianship
do issue to said W .H. McMILLAN on the person and Estate of said Susan E.
McMILLAN.
State of Texas Brazos County
Know all men by these presents that we, George R. McMILLAN, W illiam H. McMILLAN,
J.M. FOSTER & his wife Ann E. Foster, Basil BROW N & his wife Mollie E. BROW N,
Isaac W . BAKER & his wife Jane BAKER & Wm. H. McMILLAN Guardian of Susie E.
McMILLAN, who constitute all the heirs of James McMILLAN deceased, who was a
veteran of the Texas Revolution of 1836, do hereby constitute & appoint Champe
CARTER of Robertson County our general agent & attorney to prepare, draw, receive
& accept, to sell & transfer, to hypothecate(?) for loan if he deems best any certificate
, bond or bonds or other evidence of right & property to which we may be entitled
through the demise of said James McMILLAN decd for a pension as a veteran as
aforesaid & we authorize said CARTER to substitute for himself any one he deems
proper and we ratify & confirm all the acts of our said attorney or his agent as if we
(illegible) Witness our hands and scrolls or seals this August 6th A.D. 1874
G.R. McMILLAN
W .H. McMILLAN
J.M. FOSTER
A.E. FOSTER
Basil BROWN
26
M.E. BROWN
Isaac BAKER
Jane BAKER
W .H. McMILLAN guardian of Susie McMILLAN
The State of Texas Brazos County
Know all men by these presents that I Thomas H. EATON do by these presents
nominate, constitute and appoint Geo. I. GOODW IN my true and lawful agent and
attorney in fact in my name place and stead to apply for receive and receipt for all
moneys, bonds, warrants and pension certificate that may be due me from the state of
Texas as a veteran of the Revolution of 1836 that separated Texas and Mexico and I
hereby notify and confirm all the acts of my said agent and atty in fact as fully and as
absolutely as if I were personally present and acting for myself. In testimony whereof
witness my hand and scroll or seal this 24th day of August 1874
Thomas EATON
The State of Texas Brazos County
Hardin NEVILLE of the County of Brazos and state of Texas on this 24th day of August
1874 personally appeared before me the undersigned Notary Public, and being duly
sworn on oath says that he is the identical Hardin NEVILL who was a private and
sergeant in Capt. Thomas BARNES company attached to Maj. SMITH's Battalion of
Texas volunteers, and that he enlisted on the day of August 1836 for the term of one
year and was discharged on the day of August 1837 at old Nashville, Texas, by
reason of the termination of his time of service, and that he was honorably discharged,
and received a Bounty warrant for 1280 acres of land from the Republic of Texas.
Hardin NEVILL
Sworn & subscribed before me this August 24th 1874
J.A. BUCHOLTS Not Pub Brassos County, Texas
The State of Texas County of Brazos
Personally appeared before me the undersigned authority J.L. JONES & D.S. LLOYD
two well known citizens to me well known who upon oath deposeth and says that they
are well agreed (?) with Chester S. GORBETT an old citizen of this county that he is
still alive and that he is the same individual that is now asking for a pension of the State
of Texas, and that he is the individual he represents himself to be. to all of which we
bare witness with our signatures this 4th of September A.D. 1874.
J.L. JONES
D.S. LLOYD
Sworn to and subscribed before me this the 4th day of Sept. A.D. 1874 in testimony
whereof I affix my notarial seal
J.S. RILEY J.P.B.C. ex oficio Notary Public Brazos County
27
State of Texas County of Brazos
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority, J.D. THOMAS and James
H. BATTE both well known to me, who upon oath say they know of their own
knowledge that G.H. LOVE to whom a pension has been granted by the state of Texas
was living on the 30th day of Sept. A.D. 1874
J.D. THOMAS
Jas. H. BATTE
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 30th day of Sept. A.D. 1874. And further,
I certify that the signers to the above affidavit are credible persons.
Hammett HARDY C.D.C.B.C.
Bryan, Sept. 30th 1878
Cousin John
Please find enclosed the certified copies of applications for pension by Mrs. P.C. KIZER
and Albert GALLATIN which do with as you can. I would have sent these sooner but
District Court has been in session until Saturday and County Court adjourned today.
Love to all, no news, all well.
Yours
Pinckney S. FORD
The State of Texas County of Brazos
Before the undersigned authority this day personally came W ilson REED and W m. H.
HARDY citizens of said state and county well known to me as credible persons, who
being by me duly sworn depose and say -
that they have been personally acquainted with Henry G. HUDSON a resident citizen
of Brazos County for the last 25 to 35 years - that the said HUDSON has been residing
here in the county during the time above mentioned - that they never knew any other
person by the same name in the county - that they have been informed that an
application is pending to procure a pension by said HUDSON - that they have often
heard him, said HUDSON speak of his services as a solider in 1836, and verily believe
his said statements to be true.
W ilson REED
W illiam H. HARDY
Sworn to & subscribed before me, this 12th day of Sept. 1874
H.S. NEW LAND, N.P.B.G.
Clerk's Office, Bryan, Brazos Co., Texas, Hammett HARDY, Clerk
Oct.20th, 1874
C.R. JOHNS & Co.
Gents
I enclose you Capt. LOVE's letter, which explains itself. I am fully satisfied that Mr.
DAVIS (who resides in your city) can make the necessary affidavit as to Capt. LOVE's
28
identity or Gen. J.B. ROBINSON Supt. of Public immigration - Both of whom are old
friends of Capt. LOVE. Can you not see them. Either of them would take pleasure in
rendering assistance to an old comrade. Let me hear from you if this plan will now
answer.
Very Respectfully
Hammett HARDY
State of Texas County of Brazos
Know all men by these presents that I H.C. LYONS of Brazos County Texas have this
day appointed and constituted Guy M. BRYAN, Jr. of said county & state aforesaid my
lawful agent to collect my certificate or pension for this quarter.
H.C. LYONS
Bryan July 8 / '78
Circus, Plays and Shows, 1850-1900's
compiled by Bill PAGE
[ad] Great Southern Circus and Menagerie (Late ROBINSON and ELDRED’s) Will Exhibit
at W ashington, Anderson, Boonville ... Texas Baptist (Anderson), 20 May 1857, p.3
Letter from Bryan ... Mr. CRISP, with his theatrical troupe, has been here for several
weeks, and has met with much patronage and encouragement; he left yesterday morning.
There is also here a traveling show, playing necromancy, gymnastics, and exhibiting
animals. Galveston Daily News, 7 April 1868, p. 3.
Miss Agnes STANFIELD, better known in the literary world as Ada CLARE, was married
at Houston, Texas, on Sept. 9 to J.F. NOYES, manager of the theatre at Bryan City, Texas.
New York Times, 27 September 1868, page 5
The Varieties Theatre at Bryan has closed for the present season. Galveston Daily News,
14 March 1869, page 2.
“The Radico Negro Convention at Bryan,” Houston Daily Times, 5 August 1869, p.2.
“Bryan, August 3, 1869 – The convention met this morning at 10 o'clock, in the New
Theatre, which was speedily filled with blacks and whites – principally blacks. "The Hon."
G.T. RUBY occupied the chair, and the Rev. George Washington HONEY acted as
temporary secretary ....”
29
“A variety of traveling shows appeared in early Brazos County. The Bryan News Letter of
29 August 1869, for example, told about the citizens of Bryan being excited by the
appearance of a brass band on the streets of the city. Upon investigation the citizens
discovered that ‘Professor HARDY, the ventriloquist, was home and that he and his boys
were responsible for the melodious tones.’ The Professor agreed to a request to give an
entertainment at Sterne’s Hall on Friday night. The house was full.” from PAGE, Bill,
“Cultural History: The Arts and Recreation in the Nineteenth Century,” in Brazos County
History Rich Past – Bright Future, p.353, citing W ilcox, Lois A., The Early History of Bryan,
Texas (1952), p.86
Bryan ... The convention will assemble in about an hour at the Academy of Music ... The
situation is as follows: R.Q. MILLS is far ahead ... Mills' opponent is Beall, of Bryan, whose
friends are grouped at his headquarters on Main Street ... The Convention was called to
order ... W m. CAVITT, of Brazos, was appointed temporary secretary, and W m. R. KING,
of Brazos, sergeant at arms ... As a committee of credentials the following gentlemen, one
from each county, were appointed: Brazos, A.C. BRIETZ ... Galveston Daily News, 31
Aug. 1876, p. 1.
Two drunken rowdies, residents of Bryan, grossly insulted Maud and Jennie Wallace, on
their way to the Opera House, during their recent performance at Bryan. A colored porter
came to the rescue of the two sisters. Galveston Daily News, 13 January 1877, p.2
The concert and festival at the Academy of Music last night, given by the ladies of the
Methodist congregation for repairs to the church, was in every sense of the term a
magnificent success – just such an affair as the superior taste and untiring efforts of fair
ladies will ... (article continues) ... Brazos Pilot, 26 April 1877, page 4
Bryan – On the Houston and Texas Central Railroad, 100 miles from Houston. Population,
3,500. County seat of Brazos County. Seat of several institutions of learning.
Opera House. Size of stage, 21x35. Seating capacity, 600. Five scenes – drops and flats.
Rent – one night, $20; two nights, $40; one week, $90. License, $12.50. Address: L.
Sala, seats sold by W .G. WALAROH, under Opera House.
Academy of Music – Seating capacity, 600. Six scenes. Rent – one night, $10.
Newspapers – Appeal and Post, both published weekly.
Bill poster – E.A. LEAKE.
JEFFERY, John B., Guide and Directory to the Opera Houses, Theatres, and Halls of
America, 1878, p. 151.
The Bryan Rifles have leased the Opera House for their armory. Denison Daily Herald, 13
June 1878, p. 3, col. 1
Bryan ... The coronation of a May queen, with supper, etc., took place at the Academy of
Music for the benefit of the Baptist Church. Miss Lula KING was crowned queen of May.
Galveston Daily News, 5 May 1880, page 1
30
Bryan ... SEGRIST, HOWE & Co.'s traveling show raised their tent in Bryan, and an
exhibition. After the performance was over and they were about to bid adieu to our
borough, the Bryan bill-poster presented his bill for services rendered in posting, amounting
to a little over five dollars and payment was refused, whereupon the bill-poster at the late
hour of midnight, by the aid of an attorney, sued out an attachment, which made the
aforesaid circus ante up and pay the cost. Galveston Daily News, 10 October 1882, page
1.
Bryan ... CALLENDER’s Minstrels show here to-night. Galveston Daily News, 13 October
1892, page 1
Bryan ... To-day fell one of the heaviest rains of the year and, notwithstanding, fully 4000
persons were in Bryan to attend BATCHELLOR & DORIS’s circus. They gave a good
performance, better than the circuses heretofore who have visited town. Galveston Daily
News, 17 October 1882, page 1
Bryan ... Quite a number of disturbances were committed during the stay of the circus.
Among the number was a serious difficulty that took place between three attaches of the
circus, two of whom made an assault upon the third, striking him with a slung-shot and a
hammer, besides giving him several severe cuts on the head and in the face and neck.
Officers being on hand, one of the two who made the assault was immediately arrested
and bond fixed at $500. Being unable to give bail, he was remanded to jail. The other
party made his escape, as the officers were unable to trace him in the crowd. Galveston
Daily News, 18 October 1882, page 1
Bryan ... To the surprise of all, only one building was entirely destroyed by the conflagration
last night... The wall of the opera house, with the store of L. Spring beneath, on one side
of the burnt building, and the wall of SMITH’s grocery on the other, are so damaged that
they will probably have to be rebuilt... Galveston Daily News, 13 Feb. 1883, p.1
Bryan ... The public schools of Bryan are now having their examinations, and will close
tomorrow with literary exercises at the Academy of Music ... Galveston Daily News, 20
June 1884, p. 3.
Bryan, May 13 – A band of Turks came into the city to-day with three bears and entertained
the citizens with a bear dance. The outfit was dilapidated. Galveston Daily News, 14 May
1885, page 2
Bryan ... The Lucky Seven, a social club, gave a hop at the Academy of Music last night,
which was well attended and highly enjoyed. Galveston Daily News, 22 May 1887, p. 11.
The Bryan Prohibition club met at the Academy of Music last night, and was addressed at
length by Judge THOMAS. There was a large attendance. The antis meet tonight, when
Captain Henderson replies to Judge THOMAS. The committee controlling Minter Spings
meeting have reconsidered, and agree to divide time with the antis. Invitations are out to
the Agricultural and Mechanical College commencement ball, June 27. Galveston Daily
31
News, 25 May 1887, p. 3.
*Prohibition meeting at the Academy of Music; Fort Worth Daily Gazette, May 26, 1887,
p. 4; May 27, 1887, p. 5.
Bryan ... The concert and amateur play given last night for the benefit of the Episcopal
Church was a decided success, both in point of actual merit and in the amount raised.
Galveston Daily News, 12 June 1887, page 2
Bryan ... The Amateur Company rendered their play Two Buzzards in Navasota last night
for an appreciative audience. Galveston Daily News, 15 June 1887, page 1
Bryan, Tex., February 8 – The Bryan Dramatic club gave a very creditable performance at
the Academy of Music last evening, rendering Loan of a Love and the Specter Bridegroom.
The proceeds of the entertainment, as well as of the supper that followed, go to the
Presbyterian Church. Galveston Daily News, 9 February 1888, page 8
“The Assembly Hall on the Texas A&M University campus was also completed in 1889.
This building included an auditorium with an area of about 3000 square feet on the first
floor and a balcony of about 2000 square feet. It had a seating capacity of 800 people;
1,000 if seats were placed in the aisles. Ernest Langford wrote ‘all things considered, this
old building came close to being the most uninteresting building ever erected on the
Campus.’” from PAGE, Bill, “Cultural History: The Arts and Recreation in the Nineteenth
Century,” in Brazos County History Rich Past – Bright Future, p.353, citing LANGFORD,
Ernest, Here We’ll Build the College, 1963, p.38.
College Station, Tex., April 5 – Shortly the corner-stone of the new assembly hall of the
Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas will be laid. It will be a handsome and
commodious structure, adding much, not only to the general appearance of the grounds
and buildings, but to the convenience of the faculty and students as well. The following
invitation, with programme attached, has been sent out to the friends of the college and the
public generally: You are cordially invited to attend the laying of the corner-stone of the
new assembly hall of the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas, College Station,
Tex., Monday, April 22, 1889. Programme: 10 a.m. college chapel, prayer by the chaplain,
Rev. C.P. FOUNTAIN; address by Hon. R.C. BEALE, Corsicana. Sit of new assembly hall.
Placing the corner-stone in position. Dallas Morning News, 6 April 1889, page 3
Bryan ... The new Assembly Hall of the Agricultural and Mechanical College is now finished
and in use. The building is one of the finest structures of the kind in the state and has a
seating capacity of about 900. Religious services are conducted by the chaplain of the
college every Sunday at 11 a.m., to which the public is invited. Galveston Daily News, 5
December 1889, page 1
Bryan ... The second story of the city hall has been leased for ten years to Messrs. H.
RYPINSKI and Jake SCHW ARZ. These gentlemen will convert it into a first-class opera
house. Bryan Eagle, 8 May 1890, p.5, col.2
32
H. RYPINSKI and Jake SCHW ARZ gave a mortgage to J.E. BUTLER on furniture and
fittings in the Grand Opera House, located on the 2nd floor of the Bryan City Hall Building,
which included 436 opera chairs, scenery, drop curtains, etc.; dated 1 Sept. 1890. Brazos
Co. Deed of Trust, Book G, pp.131-133
H. RYPINSKI and Jake SCHW ARZ gave a deed of trust to H.O. BOATWRIGHT for
furniture, etc., in the Opera House; dated 30 Mar. 1891. Brazos Co. Deed of Trust, Book
G, pp.326-327
Bryan, Texas, February 19 - The opera house management have a telegram from the
Uncle Tom’s Cabin Company that they will not cancel their engagement in Bryan and will
be here on time to show. Manager SCHW ARZ says they can not place in his house, and
there is a determined air about some of our citizens which indicates that they will have a
lively reception. Our people say they are getting along amicably and peacefully with the
Negroes and that these sores are just healing up and are being relegated to the past, and
they don’t care to have anything occur that will renew or reopen bygones. This is a political
year, and Brazos County is very evenly divided between the Negroes and the whites, and
only by the most careful and judicious management are the whites enabled to hold the
county government. W e have this year, for the first time in many years, a white
representative in the legislature. Good citizens say positively that their amicable relation
with the Negroes shall not be disturbed by any such abolitionist trash. Houston Post, 20
February 1892, p.2, col.2
“Uncle Tom’s Cabin” company are here and their car is sidetracked on the Houston and
Central Texas railway. They are anxious to play Bryan, if they can get the opera house,
which has been denied them. So far no satisfactory arrangements have been made.
Houston Post, 21 February 1892, p.2, col.1
The “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” company played at the Academy of Music last night, the
management of the Grand Opera house declining them that building. It was not till 5 p.m.
that the management of the company decided to play, as they did not care to play and risk
any trouble. They had a fair sized audience of white people and many Negroes. The car
left for Navasota last night. Houston Post, 22 February 1892, p.6, col.6
Manager Jake SCHW ARZ of the Grand Opera House is planning to put on an original
minstrel performance with home talent Aug. 11. His plot is to unite minstrelsy and farce
comedy, and he has written a very clever little sketch and enlisted the services of 20 or 25
young men for the production. Galveston Daily News, 7 Aug. 1893, p.2, col.1
Manager Jake SCHW ARZ gave his benefit amateur minstrel performance at the Grand last
night. It was of original design, being a union of farce, comedy and minstrelsy, and was
quite a success. In the closing of the after piece, Jack ROBERTS accidentally fired a blank
cartridge in the face of Sam DAVIS. The skin was painfully powder burned and one eye
considerably hurt. Galveston Daily News, 17 Aug. 1893, p.3, col.6
33
Bryan, Tex., Oct.6 – W .H. HARRIS’ show exhibited here yesterday and last night. During
the performance last night about 8 o’clock a storm blew the tent down on a large crowd of
spectators, and for a time pandemonium reigned. The wind blew furiously, the ladies and
children squalled and there was a general scramble for the outside. Fortunately few
people were hurt. One of the center poles blew down on a circus bandman named Fox
and broke his leg in two places. The gale did not last long, but was accompanied with
some rain and a blinding electrical storm. Dallas Morning News, 8 October 1893, p.4
"A. and M. College," Galveston Daily News, 13 November 1893, p.5. The campus drama
club performed "Ingomar the Barbarian"; the cast included Miss Lessie McCONNICO, Miss
M. Stella SHEPARD, and Miss Mae B. WEBB.
"The Dramatic Club," Battalion, 1 December 1893, p.12. "At the last meeting of the club
Misses McCONNICO, W EBB, SHEPHERD, HUTSON, Mrs. MORSE and Mr. John
W ALTON were elected honorary members ... and the young ladies who assisted so
pleasantly in the recent play completely won the hearts of all the college ..."
The AAMOLD grand concert at the opera house last night was a very pleasant and
successful entertainment. AAMOLD, while not a violinist of the first magnitude, is very
clever and has the touch of a master. The home talent or the program was well received.
Mrs. DAVIS and Miss CARR, a duet; Mrs. A. L. BANKS, solos; Mrs. BOATW RIGHT, Miss
FRILEY, MESSRS. W EBB and W ITHERS, quartette; Miss FRILEY, solo. Mrs. J. J.
ADAMS managed the concert with great energy and perseverance. Bryan W eekly Eagle,
7 March 1895
As announced in our last issue a colored theatre has been rigged up on Rat Row and a
home talent minstrel organization holds forth there three nights a week. The first
performance was given Saturday night, and developed some real talent in singing and
dancing, especially the latter. The “acting” of the show was positively excruciating,
however it may improve with practice. W hen a Negro tries to act the nigger he acts the
fool; all he has to do is to act natural. The boys should not keep their music so much in the
background; it is their best feature. The order was good, no smoking or bad conduct being
allowed in the room. A few white people were present. (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 14 March
1895, p.6, col.4
John B. MIKE, manager of the Grand Opera House, is putting up new, substantial and
convenient bill boards about town in anticipation of the approaching theatrical season.
(weekly) Bryan Eagle, 27 June 1895, p.3, col.2
Mr. Jake SCHW ARZ has secured the management of the W aco Opera House under a
three years’ lease. W e congratulate the well-known Bryan businessman on his success
in new fields. (weekly) BRYAN EAGLE, 4 July 1895, p.6, col.3
Manager John B. MIKE says he will put a new piano in the Grand Opera House before the
next theatrical season. BRYAN DAILY EAGLE, 24 April 1897, p.4, col.1
34
Those who attended the opening of the Grand opera house last night were surprised and
delighted with the wonderful transformation which has been effected in the interior. It has
been practically renewed throughout, at an expense of several hundred dollars, and
presents a soft, harmonious and beautiful effect that cannot fail to please. The ceiling is
exceedingly handsome, with tinted crimp work relieved by painted panels, with a dome
effect in the center, set round with incandescents and encircling the large electric
chandelier. The arch in stucco and plastic relief, is probably one of the prettiest in the
state. The panels, arch and the wall spaces on each side of the stage are exquisitely
painted. A new drop curtain containing an elaborate painting, completes the wonderful
transformation made by Artist B. E. LEE, and makes of the Grand an opera house of which
the people of Bryan may justly be proud. The stage settings are also receiving attention
in harmony with the other extensive improvements. Manager John B MIKE has spared no
pains or expense in the work, and his enterprise, which is in striking contrast with the
course usually pursued, by managers in the smaller cities, deserves the encouragement
of a liberal patronage from amusement lovers. W e trust the present season will be
sufficiently successful to reward him for his effort. The attendance was not large. The
performance of Mr. SEDAN presented numerous tricks and illusions known to the
magician’s art, some being very well received. His work was evidently retarded however,
by the fact that owning to the work on the opera house the stage settings and property
could not be placed until late in the afternoon and the lights were oil early in the evening.
The performance will be repeated tonight. W eekly Bryan Eagle, 14 Oct. 1899
“Grand Opera House,” Bryan Morning Eagle, 27 Sept. 1901, p.3, col.4. Managed by John
B. MIKE
Mr. and Mrs. Jno. B. MIKE and little daughter, Miss Lucille, returned yesterday from Ft.
W orth where they have been spending the past 4 months. Mr. MIKE left his son, Louis,
in charge of the Vendome theatre, which he has been running for the summer, and came
home to look after the improvements he is having made at the opera house, as well as
others he contemplates. He says he is booking an exceptionally strong list of companies
for the Grand opera house the coming season. Bryan Morning Eagle, 28 July 1907, p.2,
col.2
$5.00 Reward – I will pay $5.00 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the
party who severed the elevator rope at the opera house Tuesday. Bryan Morning Eagle,
16 Dec. 1908, p.4, col.3
“Dallas Student is Star in A.& M. Minstrel Show,” Dallas Morning News, 29 May 1922,
sect.2, p.14. H.L. PEOPLES, Jr., son of founder of Aggie Mothers Clubs; mentions
Peoples’ “imitative darky slang and mannerisms”, etc.
“Academy of Music Flourished in Bryan Forty-Odd Years Ago,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 19 May
1924, p.3, col.3.
McKAY, Paul, “High Culture Comes to Bryan,” Bryan-College Station Eagle, 28 July 1984,
“Saturday Magazine,” page 6.
35
The Bryan Weekly Eagle
November 16, 1905
LOCALS W ednesday
T. A. CLOUD of Kurten was in the city yesterday.
Mrs. D. P. COLE was a visitor from Harvey, yesterday.
Frank W ILSON of Rogers Prairie was in the city yesterday.
Mr. and Mrs. John B. NEELEY of W ellborn were in the city yesterday.
Ab ANDREWS of W illow Hole has a position with the Edge Dry Goods Co.
Mr. and Mrs. A. HENSARLING are visiting in W ellborn.
Dave HOW ARD and family of Iola were in the city yesterday and left to visit in
Houston.
Mrs. M. A. CHRISTIE arrived from Navarro County yesterday to visit B. D.
DeHART and family.
Mrs. J. T. HINES has a pineapple plant two feet high and growing nicely at her
home in this city. The plant is rarely seen in this latitude.
J. H., T. L. and D. D. SHEFFIELD, W . D. CARTER, Mr. McCLUNG and others
were here from Madison County yesterday, and left for Houston.
Deputy Sheriff CONLEE went to Navasota yesterday, taking with him a negro
arrested here Monday and wanted in Bell County. Mr. CONLEE turned the prisoner
over to the Bell County sheriff.
Marriage licenses have been issued to Anderson ROUNDTOP and Quintana
W HITE, W . H. A. FISTW OITH and Lila Bell ARNOLD, Isaac SAMUELS and Grace G.
ISAACS, R. B. RICE and Nettie McCLENDON, W atson LEW IS and Bertie ROGERS.
Miss Annie ROBERSON was here yesterday from Edge, where she has a
position in the store of Beard & Crenshaw, en route to Benchley to visit her parents, Mr.
and Mrs. J. L. ROBERSON, and her grandmother Mrs. P. A. EAVES, who continues
quite ill.
For the special train passing Bryan at noon yesterday the H. & T. C. sold 263
tickets to the Houston Carnival. Any time Houston rings the bell and Bryan don't start in
the excursion race from 100 to 500 strong there is something radically wrong with
finances of the country.
George SHAW of Steep Hollow left for Palestine yesterday.
A marriage license has been issued to James COLLINS and W illie MURPHY.
V. C. MAREK and family have gone to Marlin to make their home and will
conduct a boarding house.
W . C. B. JOLLY and family of Rock Prairie left yesterday for Clyde, Callahan
County, to make their home. The best wishes of many friends follow them.
36
A Small orange tree, with the ripening fruit on it, and grown by Mrs. M. H. JAMES
in a hot house, is attracting no little attention at Mr. JAMES' drugstore.
Mr. A. P. McGEE died Tuesday night at the home of his son Mr. L.D. McGEE at
the Prospect community, and was buried yesterday at the Beckham graveyard. Mr.
McGEE was 76 years old and had lived in Brazos County many years. Further mention
of his death will be made in the Eagle.
Lynnville HOUSTON had the misfortune to get both bones of his right leg
between the knee and ankle broken in a bootball game yesterday afternoon. Dr.
FOUNTAIN was called and gave the injury prompt attention.
W . D. GARRETT, formerly of Bryan, writes the Eagle on business matters, and
incidentally reveals the information that he lost a finger by a painful accident. He held
an accident policy and was fortunate in making a satisfactory settlement according to
the tenor of his policy, collecting in full.
Dr. and Mr. G. W. EMORY left last night for New Orleans to consult with
physicians in that city regarding Dr. EMORY's illness. The latter's brother, Dr. S. J.
EMORY of Navasota accompanied them.
INDEX
AAMOLD ...........................33
ABRY ...............................9
ADAMS ...................5, 6, 10, 11, 33
ADMIRE .............................6
ADOUE ..............................8
ALEXANDER .........................8
ALLEN .............................22
ANDREWS ..........................35
ARMSTRONG ...................6, 8, 11
ARNOLD ............................35
ASTIN ...............................8
BAKER .............................25
BANKS ...........................6, 33
BARMORE ...........................6
BARNES ..........................5, 26
BARRON ............................12
BATTE..............................27
BEANE .............................12
BLACKIRBY.........................23
BLAIR ..............................14
BOATWRIGHT ....................32, 33
BONNEVILLE .......................10
BOYETT ............................11
BRANTLEY ..........................6
BRIETZ .............................29
BROWN........................7, 17, 25
BRYAN .........................123, 28
BUCKHOLTS ......................8, 26
BUFFINGTON ........................5
BUFORD .............................6
BURGER ............................17
BURTON ............................10
BURTTSCHELL ......................22
BUTLER ............................32
CABELL .............................9
CALLENDER ........................30
CARR...............................33
CARTER .......................9, 25, 35
CAVITT ...........................4, 29
CEARNAL ............................5
CHANCE ..........................5, 12
CHATHAM .................14, 15, 17-24
CHRISTIE ...........................35
CLARE .............................28
CLARK ..............................5
CLOUD .............................35
COLE ...........................123, 35
COLLARD ............................5
COLLINS ............................35
COMPERE...........................16
CONLEE ............................35
COSBY .............................20
CRAWFORD ..........................7
CRISP...............................28
37
CURTIS .............................10
DANSBY ............................11
DAVIS .......................6, 7, 32, 33
DEARLING ...........................7
DeHART ............................35
DERDEN .............................5
DILLISHAW .........................13
DONALDSON ........................17
DUNCAN.............................7
EATON .............................26
EAVES..............................35
ELDRED ............................28
EMORY .............................36
ERWIN..............................10
FAUCHER ...........................18
FIELD ...............................7
FIGH ..............................123
FISTWOITH .........................35
FLIPPEN .............................8
FORD ...............................27
FORDTRANE ........................18
FOSTER.............................25
FOUNTAIN .......................31, 36
FOWLKES..........................6, 8
FRILEY .............................33
FULKERSON .........................6
GAINER.............................12
GAINES ..............................9
GALLATIN ..........................27
GARRETT ...........................36
GARTH ..............................9
GARTNER...........................13
GATES..............................12
GILLETT ............................21
GOODWIN ..........................26
GORBETT ...........................26
GORDN ..............................9
GORDON.............................9
GUILD ...............................6
HALL ................................5
HANWAY ............................6
HARDY ..........................27-29
HARLAN .............................6
HARRIS ..........................13, 33
HASSELL ...........................20
HAYNES ............................15
HENDERSON ......................5, 23
HENSARLING .......................35
HEREFORD...........................5
HICKMAN.........................6, 13
HINES ..............................35
HONEY .............................28
HOUSTON ..........................36
HOWARD ...........................35
HOWE ..............................30
HOWELL...........................4-6
HUCKABEE ........................4, 6
HUDSON ............................27
HUGHES ............................17
HUMPHRIES.........................17
HUTSON ............................33
ISAACS .............................35
JAMES ..............................36
JEFFERY ............................29
JILES ...............................20
JOHNS ..............................27
JOHNSON .....................12, 16, 24
JOLLY ..............................35
JONES ...........................12, 26
KERNOLE ............................4
KING ...............................29
KIRKPATRICK ........................9
KNAPP .............................23
KNIGHT ...........................7, 8
KOLB...............................19
KOPPE ...............................5
KOPPERL ............................8
KROHNE ............................19
LACOUTRE .........................10
LANGFORD .........................31
LASKI ...............................5
LAW ................................5
LEAKE .............................29
LEE ................................34
LEWIS ..............................35
LLOYD .............................26
LOBIT ...............................8
LOVE ...............................27
LYONS .............................28
MABRY .............................12
MAREK .............................35
MARTIERE ...........................5
McCLENDON ........................35
McCLUNG ..........................35
McCONNICO ........................33
McDONALD .........................18
McGEE .............................36
McGREGOR ..........................4
38
McGUINNIS .........................23
McKAY .............................34
McLELLAND ........................13
McMILLAN ..........................25
McQUEEN............................5
McVEY .............................24
MERIWETHER .......................18
MESSRS ............................33
MEYERS ..........................7, 11
MIKE ............................33, 34
MILLER ..............................6
MILLICAN ...........................7
MILLS ..............................29
MOLLENBERNDT .................14, 22
MOLLER ............................15
MORONEY ...........................5
MORONNEY..........................5
MORSE .............................33
MOSS...............................16
MURPHY ...........................35
MUSTACHEA.........................6
NEELEY ............................35
NEVILL .............................26
NEVILLE ............................26
NEWELL .............................5
NEWLAND ..........................27
NEWTON ............................8
NORRELL ............................7
NOYES .............................28
OBAR ..............................21
OKER...............................21
ORBINSON ..........................15
PAGE ...........123, 5, 6, 24, 25, 28, 29, 31
PALMER ............................19
PARKER .......................6, 12, 18
PATTERSON ........................13
PEOPLES............................34
PHIFER .............................20
PICO................................13
RANDALL..........................123
RANDLE ..........................7, 11
RANKIN .............................5
RAY .................................5
RECTOR ............................11
REED ...............................27
REESE ..............................22
REISENBOYNER .....................11
RICHARDSON ........................4
RILEY ..............................26
ROBERSON .........................35
ROBERTS ...........................32
ROBINSON ...................5, 6, 21, 28
ROGERS ..........................6, 35
ROSS ................................6
ROUNDTOP .........................35
RUBY ..............................28
RUDISILL ...........................13
RYPINSKI ........................31, 32
SCHWARZ .......................31-33
SCOTT ..............................17
SEALE ..............................12
SHAW ..............................35
SHEFFIELD..........................35
SHEPARD ...........................33
SIMS ..............................5, 8
SMITH .....................4-7, 9, 11, 30
SOWDERS ..........................22
SPOONTS ...........................20
STANFIELD .........................28
STODDARD ................123, 4, 5, 8, 9
STOKES ............................18
STUBBLEFIELD......................16
TABOR .........................4, 7, 11
TERRELL ...........................20
THOMAS.....................5, 6, 27, 30
THOMPSON ......................10, 16
TURNER .............................6
WALAROH ..........................29
WALLING ...........................21
WALTON ...........................33
WARD ...............................7
WEAR ...............................5
WEBB ............................6, 33
WELLER ............................17
WHITE..............................35
WHITED ............................19
WILKERSON ........................22
WILSON ............................35
WINGO .............................13
WINKLER ...........................14
WITHERS ...........................33
WITTER ............................16
WOHLER ...........................22
WOODALL ...........................4
WYSE ...............................6
YOUNG .............................19
PUBLICATIONS BY BRAZOS GENEALOGICAL ASSOCIATION AND MEMBERS
Persons interested in the publications of the BGA may order them at the address listed
below. For information on publications by members, contact the author at the listed
address. Any charge for the publication of members will be between the person
interested in the publication and the author. W hen inquiring please enclose a SASE.
********
Title:"R ecorded Births in Brazos County, Texas 1850-1910."
Content:Recorded births in Brazos County plus som e births in Madison and Grim es Counties.
A lphabetical by surnam e plus m aiden nam e index. 328 pages . Auth or: N adine B illings ley,
706 Pershing, College Station, TX 77840.
Title:"Descendants of Joshua JONES of Alabama and Solomon KING of North Carolina, 1771-
1994"
C onte nt:S tory of Jos hua JO N ES of Alabam a and Solom o n K IN G of N o rth C a ro lin a and their
descendants , 1 771-1994. O ver 8000 nam es, indexed. A u thor: N adine Billingsley.
Title:“Brand and Mark Registrations for Brazos County Texas 1849-1900"
Content:The registration of a m ark or brand m ay be useful to Genealogists as a finding aid when
developing a tim e line, and may confirm the existence of a person or fam ily in Brazos
C ounty. R egistrations were com piled from Brand Book "A " and "B ", and m ay contain
such inform ation as surname, first nam e or initials, date of registration, book, page, and
any com m ents m ade at the tim e. It has 121 pages, soft bound, over 2900 registrations
and is indexed. T he cost is $17.9 7. Auth or: N adine B illings ley.
Title:Index to Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1876-1909, St. Joseph Catholic Church,
Bryan, Brazos County, Texas.
Content:Indexed, intended to assist the researcher in locating records at this church. 96 pages.
Com piler: Joanne Dom inik Glowski, 4131 Bethel, Houston, TX 77092.
Title:Marriage and Death Records, 1877-1909, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Bryan, Brazos
County, Texas.
Content:A com plete transcript of these records. Deaths start in 1894, with a few recorded before
th at d a te. In c lu d e s a list o f places of birth . 8 3 pages. C om p ile r: J o a n n e D om in ik G low s k i.
Title:"Italians of Steele's Store, Texas."
Content:Historical account of the Italian settlem ent at Steele's Store, Brazos County, Texas.
Author: Rosem ary DePasquale Boykin, 8407 Shadow Oaks, College Station, Texas
77845-4603.
Title:"Birds of Passage"
Content:An annotated listing of Italian im m igrants who departed Palerm o, Sicily and arrived at Port
of New Orleans, LA, 1859-1901. CD-ROM (MAC/PC compatible). Listing of 23,975
nam es. C & R Publications. College Station, TX. 2001. $35 plus $2 for shipping/handling.
Texas residents add $2.90 for sales tax. Checks or money orders made payable to C&R
Publications, 8407 Shadow Oaks, College Station, TX 77845. Brochure and order form
at: http://m em bers.tripod.com /~LW ink2/Birds">BIRDS OF PASSAG E. Author: Rosem ary
D eP as quale B oyk in
Title:"Italians of Steele's Store, Texas."
Content:Brazos Valley Italians. A Series of Interviews." 279 pgs. C& R Publications. College
Station, TX. 1996. $25 plus tax.
BRAZOS GENEALOGICAL ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 5493
Bryan, TX 77805-5493
Vol. XXIX No. 1, WINTER 2008