Tour of Historic Newton, Ks Preview

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203 N Main, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives (Carnegie Library Building)

Carnegie Library Building, 1904.NR KR Architect: W.W. Rose, Kansas CityNewton's Carnegie library is one of fifty-five built in Kansas by Andrew Carnegie. Completed in 1904, the cost for the new library was $16,000.Choosing the classical style put Newton in tune with the common Carnegie style used nationally and highlighted the Greco-Roman tradition. The front facade of the red brick and stone structure is dominated by two massive Ionic columns. Crowning the entrance is a plaster tablet with Roman inscription of the year (A.D. MCMIII). Newton's Carnegie Library was hailed as a "Temple of Learning" and a "power for good."The architect was W.W. Rose of Kansas City, who designed the Kansas Building at the St Lois World's Fair the same year. By reputation he was "one of the best if the best."Before the Carnegie library was built, the library was located on the second floor of one of the downtown businesses. A progressive community, like Newton, needed an actual library building. In March 1902. J.W. Patterson, president of the Library Board, applied for and received grant from Andrew Carnegie to build Newton's free library. The land at the corner of 2nd and Main was donated by E. C. Lewellyn and construction began in 1903. A grand opening was held on March 14, 1904. An addition was added to the west side of the building in 1924 and the basement was remodeled to add a children's section in 1934. The building served the community as a library until a new library was built at Broadway and Oak in 1973. Today, it continues to serve the community as home to the Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives.The Museum is open 10-4 Tuesday- FridayVisitors and researchers welcome, admission by donation.(Kristine Schmucker, Billie Wilson)

2

119-127 N Main

Today, Auto Parts and a bank are located at this address, but at one time a fire station, hotel and Peter Pan Ice Cream store were part of this busy intersection.119 N MainFrom approximately 1926 until 1948, Fire Station # 2 was located at 119 N Main. The fire department was located on the south portion of the building pictured where the garage door is visible. The firemen may have lived above. One man recalled that "when the door was open you could see the fire engine." Another remembered when he was a young boy, the firemen would sit in front of the station on metal chairs. He and his friends would ride bikes past and stop to visit with the crew. And sometimes, the firemen would allow the boys to go inside and slide down the pole.By 1952, a new Fire Station had been built at 200 E 3rd.119 -123 N MainThe Hotel Meridian/Cafe first appears in the directories in 1923 at 119-123 N. Main and occupies the north portion of the building. After 1926, the Hotel is listed as occupying 123 N. Main, with the Cafe at 121 N. Main, Newton. The hotel was first managed by Lucia B. Oakes Millner and later by her daughter-in-law Winona Linville Millner Sloan.The buildings at 119-123 N. Main (seen in the 1968 photo) were torn down in approximately 1970.123 N MainA Peter Pan Ice Cream Store appears at the 123 N. Main address from 1956 to 1966. In the 1960s a free standing Peter Pan store was built at this location. It later became a Pancake restaurant and then a Dairy Queen.127 N MainMiller's Sinclair Service Station was located at 127 N Main.(Kristine Schmucker)

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Notorious Newton - Hide Park

Hide Park MarkerEven before the first train arrived in Newton, the town had a reputation. Tales of constant gunfire and lawlessness were spreading already. One can imagine the heat, dust and smell that surrounded the town with herds of cattle adding to the mix. Increasing the chances for violence were the Texas cowboys arriving after a long drive ready to blow off some steam and the complete lack of law enforcement. Several well-known gunfighters came through the area during July and August. John Wesley Harden, one of the most notorious Texas gunfighters, had followed the Chisholm Trail in 1871 on a cattle drive and spent time in Newton. Billy Brooks also was in and out of Newton as law enforcement and as gunfighter depending on the situation in the early 1870s.Newton in 1871 was the perfect storm for lawlessness and general mayhem."About the first of August, a young man, named Lee was shot and killed in one of the dance-houses in Hyde Park, accidentally. . .Newton was indignant over the murder of a young cowboy named Lee.”On July 4th, a group of cowboys decided to celebrate at Perry Tuttle's dance hall in Hide Park. Not content with gambling, drinking or the dancing girls, they thought up some mischief. They forced everyone out of the building, made all of the dance hall girls lie down on the ground, and proceeded to riddle Tuttle's building with bullets. (Topeka Daily Commonwealth, 11 July 1871.)Another Texas cowboy observed, "Newton was one of the worst towns I ever saw, every element of meanness on earth seemed to be there." Still another gave this advice; "when the dance halls were flaming and the saloons frothed trouble, when it was best to keep your hand on your holster and your mouth shut going down that avenue."Newton's reputation as one observer put it, was a "Hell upon Earth, with all it's horrors." The most infamous area of early Newton was Hide Park was the setting for most of the violence, including the General Massacre. The rough and tumble, anything goes section of the new town was located just south and west of the AT&SF Railroad tracks. The area got it's name from a newspaper description that claimed the area was called Hide Park, "because the girls showed so much hide."While businesses with new wood frame structures were springing up on the north side of the tracks, the south side consisted of hastily built shacks ready for the cowboys. Although the businesses catered to the 'cowboy trade,' local men also found their way to Hide Park. This unique mix of men prompted a reporter for the Daily Commonwealth to observe that "the society of Newton is mixed and incongruous. Gentlemen associate with roughs, and gamblers seem to be held in high esteem." Cattlemen were seen everywhere "in the gambling shops, drinking saloons, and in the establishments at "Hide Park'."By the late summer of 1871, five buildings made up Newton's 'red light district.' The buildings included two large dance houses and three smaller buildings that served as brothels. Late into the night music would pour from the dance halls and one could hear the "hippity hoppity of the dancers" at all hours. The women drank and danced with the men and made "exhibitions too indecent for description. . . a staid man would think hell had broke loose assuredly, to witness one of these disgusting dances."Judge RWP Muse described Hide Park."Festive cowboy, gamblers, saloon men, and roughs of every description began to flock in . . . "at the beginning of June and "three or four dance houses were erected on block 52, each with ample room for dancing, and also, for dispensing the inseparable concomitant whiskey. . . . All night the halls were filled with cow-boys, gamblers and roughs who, in company with the 'soiled doves' 'treaded the mazes of the giddy waltz' until daylight came, or weary nature failed to furnish strength. . . .In harmony with the character . . . all went heavily armed, their pockets loaded down . . . making each one appear like a 'travelling arsenal'." Muse, History of Harvey County)Although gambling of every kind could be found on both sides of the tracks, Muse noted that those on the north side had a "gambling house and bar attached, and recently some of the establishments have added fine lunches and concert music." Hide Park's heyday was short lived. By June 1872, it was observed that "many of the saloons and the greater portion of Hide Park are emigrating from Newton to other new towns." Some saloon owners, like 'Rowdy' Joe Lowe, loaded their buildings onto a flat car and physically moved the entire business. By 1873, the number of saloon owners in Newton was six. The Newton Kansan proudly noted the sale of the last Hide Park property in the spring of 1873. The reporter observed that "nothing but a piece of hardware is left to mark the spot where one year ago was a den of brothels."During the winter of 1871-72 leading businessmen worked to reform Newton's image. One Wichita reporter noted that Newton "is gradually outgrowing the evil reputation of its early days. The morals of the place are improving most decidedly, and in consequence good families are locating in and around the city." The removal of the last remnants of Hide Park went a long way to creating a new image for Newton. (Newton Kansan, 31 October 1871)by Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, published 03/10/2022, Voices of Harvey County.

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Notorious Newton: Newton's General  Massacre,

August 20 marks the date of the most violent days in the history of Newton, Kansas. "Newton's General Massacre" captured the attention of the nation and gave the new town the reputation as "Bloody Newton." The events of the early Sunday morning hours of Aug 20, 1871 at this site are still the subject of questions, books, and even, a screen play. In the 1870s there was a saying . . .“There is no Sunday west of Newton . . . and no god west of Pueblo.”In Hide Park, the largest and best known saloons were owned by Perry Tuttle and Ed Krum.Law enforcement in Newton was uncertain. The new town had to rely on township authorities from Sedgwick or special policemen hired by the saloon owners.The Topeka Commonwealth observed one "of the constables and the deputy sheriff have been appointed policemen. They receive their pay from a fund raised by the gamblers." Fights were not uncommon.Into this environment of lawlessness comes the Texas cowboys, many of whom sided with the Confederacy during the Civil War, and northern veteran businessmen looking for a new start. The two groups mixed together on the streets and in the saloons with sometimes tragic results.Early August 1871, Mike McCluskie, an Irishman from Ohio, also known as Arthur Delaney or Art Donovan, was in town. He had a rough reputation and was described as “among the hardest individuals to ever walk Newton.” Previously he had worked for the Santa Fe Railroad as a night policeman. In August 1871, he was hired by the Newton authorities as a Special Policeman to help keep order during the railroad bond election on August 11.Also hired as a Special Policeman for the elections was “Billy” Bailey, a Texan, described as a "thoroughly offensive and officious” gambler. It was rumored that he killed at least two other men in gun fights. The two men, McCluskie and Bailey, had a long standing feud, possibly over a woman, which came to a tragic conclusion August 11, 1871.August 11, Friday – Election DayDuring the day, McCluskie and a drunk Bailey argued. Later, at the Red Front Saloon, the argument escalated into a fistfight. Bailey left the saloon with McCluskie following, guns drawn. Two shots were fired at Bailey, who died the next day. McCluskie, realizing he is in danger from Bailey’s Texas friends, left for Florence by a train.August 19, SaturdayA week later, feeling the danger had passed, McCluskie returned to Newton and went to Perry Tuttle’s Hide Park Dance Hall to gamble.August 20, Sunday Morning1:00 a.m. Apparently, sensing trouble, Perry Tuttle attempted to close the dance hall. Customers refused to leave, even after the band left.2:00 a.m. McCluskie remained at the faro table. Three Texans, Billy Garrett, Henry Kearnes, and Jim Wilkerson, entered the dance hall, one joined McCluskie at the faro table. A short time later a Texas cowboy, Hugh Anderson entered, gun in hand.Anderson was the son of a wealthy Texas cattleman, and was in Kansas working as a cowboy in August 1871. He had recently ridden with John Wesley Hardin and had been part of a brutal killing of a Mexican cowboy earlier in the summer. Now his mind was on revenge for the death of his friend Bailey. McCluskie’s return to Newton on Saturday was Anderson’s opportunity.The Emporia News described the next few minutes inside Tuttle’s Dance Hall.Anderson walked directly to McCluskie, “with murder in his eye, and foul mouth filled with oaths and epithets, he steps up to McCluskie and shot him,” striking him in the neck. Mortally wounded, McCluskie fell to the floor while attempting to fire his own pistol, which misfired. This account goes on to note that “shooting then became general” ending with five men killed and three wounded. (Emporia News, 25 August 1871)Several newspaper correspondents were in Newton covering the cattle drives that summer. Murder and revenge filled the headlines in the days following the “General Massacre” adding to Newton’s image of lawlessness. The Topeka Daily Commonwealth reported on the violence on 22 August 1871."We received . . . the following full and graphic account of the Newton tragedy, from a correspondent of the N.Y. World. We publish it to the exclusion of our usual variety of local matter, knowing that it will be read with interest by our readers.On Sunday last . . . Blood and murder was rampart to an unusual degree. . . .Ever since the shooting affair between McCluskie and the Texas man, Bailey, which resulted in the death of the latter . . . “war” was declared to the bitter end against McCluskie . . ."Accounts of the shoot out varied. All agree that Anderson shot McCluskie, and that McCluskie attempted to return fire, but his gun misfired. What happened next, took the fight beyond the two men. After Anderson shot McCluskie, another unknown person began firing.Most accounts agree that Jim Martin, the first person shot by the second gunman, ran out of the door, bleeding from the neck, and fell dead in front of Krum's saloon, the Alamo. Martin was a well liked and most agreed that he was an innocent bystander who tried to calm the situation down. Instead, he was fatally shot. After Martin, six more men were shot. The original shooter, Hugh Anderson, was severely wounded. Patrick Lee, a brakeman for the railroad, and Texans, Billy Garrett and Kearnes were fatally shot, each dying after several days. Two other men, James Wilkerson and a man known as Hickey, were wounded and later recovered.Anderson's father arrived to insure the care of his son and a plan was devised to sneak him out of town. Once Dr. Boyd determined that Anderson could be moved, a group of men including A. Baker, George Yocum, Judge Muse and Dr. Boyd began their work. A litter was constructed, and at 2:00 a.m. Anderson was removed from the back door of Hoff’s store where he had been recuperating."To avoid detection, we carried him north, past the residence of Dr. Lewis, and there striking the cattle trail, followed it down to the car. The night was dark and rainy; the grass rank, high and wet, and the ground muddy, and our task a hard one, as we dare not use a light."Anderson was placed in a rail car with a closet that was then locked. All of this had been arranged with the conductor. He was to remain in the rail car until he reached Kansas City.The Emporia News reporter concluded that “this was the bloodiest affrays that ever occurred in our State.”History is full of unanswered questions, strange events and mysteries. One in Harvey County is the identity of the second shooter on August 20, 1871. Judge Muse described the mystery shooter;“a friend of McCloskey, a boy named Riley, some 18 years of age, quiet and inoffensive in deportment, and evidently dying from consumption . . .” According to Muse, the young man was known around Newton as “McCluskie’s Shadow.” He was a “thin, tubercular man who followed the railroad gunman around like a little dog that barked and snapped from behind his master.”Muse theorizes that after witnessing his friend’s death, Riley "coolly locked the door, thus preventing egress, and drawing his revolver, discharged every chamber." He shot a total of seven men, then, his gun empty, he walked out of the dance hall and was never heard from again.The facts of the shooting. Five men died and three were wounded in Perry Tuttle's Saloon in the early morning hours of 20 August 1871. McCluskie was shot dead by Hugh Anderson and the seven others by a shooter known as Riley, five of which died. Following the shoot out, Anderson is transported to Kansas City to recover from his wounds and the second shooter, Riley, disappears.by Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, published 08/14/2014, 08/22/2014, 08/29/2014, Voices of Harvey County.

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Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Ranchito & Fred Harvey Farm

Our Lady of Guadalupe In 1920, St Mary's Catholic church parish erected a church for the Mexican settlement on W 1st. The wood framed building was 18x40 feet and cost slightly over $2000. The intention was that this would also be used as a school for the children in the settlement.(Newton Kansan, 2 May 1920)RanchitoBeginning in approximately 1911, the Santa Fe Railroad provided housing to Mexican laborers and their families on west 1st in Newton. The area east of Sand Creek and south of 1st Street was known as the "Mexican Camp" or the Ranchito by those that lived there. The earliest homes were poorly constructed using "scrap or second hand" materials. In 1926 new buildings featuring a brick exterior were built by the Santa Fe. The buildings were torn down in 1959-60.Kristine Schmucker, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, published, 11/11/2016, Voices of Harvey County.Fred Harvey FarmIn about 1905, the Fred Harvey Company moved facilities from Kansas City, MO to Newton, KS to a location on west First near Sand Creek establishing the "Fred Harvey Farm."The large three story structure that housed the produce and carbonating plant was built in 1918. Facilities to process poultry was located on the first floor and the north side of the second floor. The carbonating and bottling plant was located on the south side of the second floor.1918 was a peak year for Fred Harvey operations with fifty-four lunch rooms, thirty-seven dining rooms and twenty-six hotels in an area that included Chicago, California and Texas. During this time, the Fred Harvey Farm in Harvey County covered 500 acres and employed 150 people. In 1921, 60,000 gallons of milk, 20,000 gallons for cream, half a million pounds of poultry, a half a million dozens of eggs and 45,000 cases of soda were shipped.The Fred Harvey Farm ceased to operate in 1960.The Fred Harvey Building was razed in 2022.Kristine Schmucker, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, published 12/12/2014, Voices of Harvey County.

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102 N. Main First Christian Church

It has been said of Newton that there is a church on every corner and First Christian Church located at the corner of 1st and Main helps prove the point.The congregation has worshiped at this corner since 1895, first in a wood frame building and later in a new brick Greek revival-style church with a central dome constructed in 1916.In 1993, the building was demolished and a new more modern brick structure was built. Two windows from the 1916 building were incorporated into the new church. (Kristine Schmucker)

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118 N. Main

E. C. Gavitt opened Gavitt Automobile Co in 1907 at 118-120 N. Main. The Evening Kansan Republican noted that the newly constructed brick building was "a regular city garage, as modern in arrangement and as fully equipped as the biggest city garages of the east." Today it is home to the McDonald law offices. About the photo 1: Photographer is looking north from the 100 block of North Main. Newton Auto Company, a one-story masonry building, is at 118 N. Main on the right side of the photo, 1900.(Billie Wilson)

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200 N. Main

The building at 200 N. Main was the last structure built on the east side of Main in the 200 Block. The 1909 Sanborn Fire Insurance Map notes "2 story brick building to be erected here."Between 1910 and 1926, the two-story brick building was home to many grocery stores. The first business was the Star Grocery which opened December 1910 at 200 Main. The Star Grocery moved to a location at the corner of Broadway and Main, Newton in approximately 1917. Next the Livingstons operated a grocery store from 1918 to 1922.In approximately 1926, J.S. Dillon decided to locate his business at 200 Main. There was a Dillons store here until 1956-57, when a new up-to-date store was built at 320 N. Main.Today, the Furniture Warehouse provides a variety of used furniture for sale.(Kristine Schmucker)

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204-206 N. Main

204-206 N Main, 1886NR KRThe buildings at 204-206 N Main are among the oldest buildings on Main and one of the few that retain the original facade.The double Italianate building with its two bay windows capped by pointed roofs, is one of the most imaginative and high-style buildings on the street.Built in 1886, one of the first businesses to open in the 204 building was "A La Mode," a millinery owned by Lena Schmidt. At 206, the Owl Pharmacy, owned by James Geary, is the first business listed in 1887.Photo # 1: In 1910, businesses in the 200 block of Main are identified as Star Grocery, Up To Date Steam Laundry, Toevs Bros. Grocery, Caveny's Wallpaper Store, Pete Park's Meat Market, Krueger's Grocery, Young's Grocery.Photo #2: In 1919, businesses located at 204-206 included Up-to-Date Laundry, Western Radiator - Repair Shop. Note the gasoline pump by sidewalk.(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

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208 N. Main

Constructed in the 1920s, this building served as a automobile garage for most of its history. Smith's Garage opened in 1920 and in the 1940, Stewart Tire & Battery took over. In 1967, the building was home to Wiebe Tire & Supply.Today, it is home to a different kind of garage - Custom Cuts Garages, barber shop/salon that caters to men. (Billie Wilson)

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212-214 N. Main

The buildings at 212-214 N. Main were constructed between 1887 and 1891. 212 N MainAfter the construction of the current buildings, Toevs Bros Groceries & General Merchandise called 212 N. Main home until 1913-1915.214 N MainAccording to the 1884 Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps of Newton, there was a small, wood frame building, identified as a drugstore, located at 214 Main. The building at 214 N. Main was a general store in1896, and over the years housed many different businesses.In 1884, Thomas H. Sharits moved his barber shop to 214 Main for a short time. Tom Sharits was described as a "good barber, has a neatly furnished, pleasant shop and gives general satisfaction to his customers." He also had a reputation as "the great Jack Rabbit destroyer." The papers mention his hunting ability several times including successful coyote hunts. Throughout the 1880s and 90s, Sharits moved the location of his barber shop several times.In 1889, the Badger Store, which carried a bit of everything, was located at 214. On the second floor the earliest Newton City Directories indicate that this building also served as a boarding house with two boarders living at 214 Main in 1887.The front facade underwent significant change between 1920 and the late 1930s to the current look of the building. The second floor bay window and the tin cornice were removed. The second story windows were also changed to a square shape. The general appearance of the front facade was more flat.In the 1940s and 50s the building provided a space for one of several Newton movie theaters. First, the Rex, in the 1930s the name was changed to the Roxy theater. The Roxy theater closed in 1962. The movie theaters in Newton played a part in the segregation of the town, with special sections in the back of the theater for Blacks and Mexican Americans until the 1960s. Over the years these two buildings have housed many varied businesses as Newton changed and grew. The appearance of the two buildings also underwent changes with each decade. (Kristine Schmucker)

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216 -220 N. Main

The buildings at 216-220 N Main are among the oldest buildings on Main that retain much of their original facade. According to the 1884 Sanborn Fire Insurance maps there was a wood frame building at this address. By 1899, the building had acquired its current facade.Businesses at 218-220 N MainBetween 1885 and 1887, W.P. Brown operated a grocery store and lived at 220 Main. Brown also added on to the back for a real estate office.The 1896 Sanborn Fire Insurance Map indicates that there was a Tin Shop located at 220 N. Main with "specials," although the back part of the building remained wood frame. "Specials" on the maps indicated that modifications had been made to the building because of the business it housed. Perhaps this is when the current facade of the building was installed.By 1890, Peter Park's City Meat Market opened. At first Park was in a partnership with Sam Burchart, however, it dissolved 9 February 1894. Park continued on with his Meat Market at 220 N. Main.The earliest photo of the 220 N. Main building was taken in October 1899 during the Newton Street Fair and during Peter Park's ownership.An "instructive" Bible study was held at 220 Main by Evangelist N.E. Baker from Arkansas City in September 1910. With a Bible class at 7:30 and 8:00 pm preaching all were encouraged to come to this free event. The announcement noted; "these meetings are quite instructive, and the teacher gets down into the scriptures and brings for valuable truths." (Evening Kansan 21 Sept. 1910)In 1935, M. Fay Moore established her beauty salon at 218-220 N Main. The 1943 Newton City Directory lists Oscar Lee as a barber at 218 Main and Fay Moore as beautician at 218 B Main.A variety of bars have been located at 220 N Main. In 1954, Newton Billiards was here followed by J& K Tavern in the 1960s. In 1984, the Legal Tender, advertised "Live Entertainment" in celebration of their tenth year in business. Today, 220 N. Main, an unassuming building with a long history, is the location of Jay's Place.(Kristine Schmucker)

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224 -226 N Main

Constructed between 1886 and 1889, the structure at 224-226 N. Main was built with abundant optimism. In April 1889 the editor of the Newton Daily Republican declared; "this will be one of the finest business blocks in the city when finished and the builders, Messrs Parris and Hanna are to be congratulated upon the enterprise shown by them." The new Bank of Commerce, one of five banks in Newton, was scheduled to open May 1, 1889 at the corner of 3rd & Main by E.L. Parris.Parris' timing was bad. The Newton Panic of 1890 struck November 27, and brought down several Newton banks, the Newton Street Railway, and the Electric Light Company as real estate values plummeted. Parris was one of several Newton businessmen that were bankrupt over night. After the failure of the Bank of Commerce the building was home to several different businesses.In 1892, the partnership of Powell & Krueger opened a grocery to 214 Main and at some point the store was moved to 226 Main. In his December 31, 1920 obituary, W. A. Krueger was hailed as "one of Newton's successful businessmen, having been in the general mercantile business at 226 Main for the past twenty-nine years."By the late 1950s, the cornice had been removed and part of the windows bricked over. Steel siding was installed by 1975. From 1946 through the early 2000s the building was home to Supernois Furniture. Today, 224-226 Main is home the Metcalf Sisters Antique Mall.(Kristine Schmucker)

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300 N. Main

The building that once stood here was constructed between 1891 and 1896. It appears to have started as a grocery store. By the early 1920s, it was the Newton Baking Co., which lasted throughout the 1940s. In 1948, it was listed as Deal's Cycle Shop becoming Newton Cycle Shop by 1958. In 1973, the building was demolished. (Billie Wilson)

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302 - 304 N. Main

All three of the buildings - 300 - 304 N. Main were constructed between 1886 and 1891. The building at 302 N. Main is the former home of the VFW Post #971, which formed in October 1930. The VFW later moved to 507 1/2 N. Main and sometime after 1998 they moved to their current location east of the interstate. A second story was added to the building at 304 N. Main at some point after 1899. A variety of businesses were located in the building over the years including a cleaning and pressing business, radio service business and a liquor store. The 3rd photo shows the rest of the 300 Block of N Main as it appeared in 1900-1905. The buildings at 306-322 N Main have all been demolished.(Billie Wilson)

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322 N. Main

Swartz Lumber Building In 1884 H.S. Dean Lumber Yard was listed at this address. In 1889, the property was sold to Chicago Lumber Company. Samuel M. Swartz was an employee of the lumberyard and in 1895 he purchased interest in the company that became known as the S.M. Swartz Lumber Co. The Swartz Lumber Co. received high praise from the Newton Kansan in the 50th Anniversary edition for their business practices. "The Swartz Lumber company has always adhered to its faith in the potency of printers' ink and the slogan "On the Square,' together with the unique number, "One-Oh' has made the business familiar to every reader of the Kansan."The building was demolished in the 1940s.(Kristine Schmucker))

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Notorious Newton 1871

Taken in the fall of 1871, this is the earliest photo known photo of Newton. The photographer was standing in the middle of Main looking over the railroad tracks to the north with a view of the 400 Block of N Main. A.F. Horner Store is the most prominent sign on the right and a saloon on the opposite side of the street.Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives

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400 Main - Santa Fe Depot

Santa Fe Depot, 1929-30 Architect E.H. Harrison, Santa Fe RailroadBuilding: M.R. Stauffer, Newton.National Register, Kansas RegisterThe Santa Fe Depot, serving the Atchison, Topeka, & Santa Fe Railroad is located at the intersection of the rails and Main street and is the heart of Newton.The amount of time drivers spend waiting on trains at this intersection has given rise to the saying, "Waiting on Trains since 1872."The current depot is Newton's fourth depot, replacing three earlier structures. When the depot was in full use, it housed the ticket office, waiting rooms, railroad offices, and the renowned Harvey House restaurant.From 1871 -1879 and 1897-1950s, Newton served as railroad division headquarters.The current depot building was completed in 1930 in the Tudor Revival style, constructed of brick with deep slate roof and patches of half-timbering. The interior has medieval touches of heavy beamed ceilings and half timbered walls. Earlier Depots 1875-1880s - a wood framed building built along a typical pattern for AT&SF depots in Kansas. (Photo 2) 1880s-1899 - Three story with mansard roof with brick and stone masonry. (Photo 3) In 1898-99 - The new AT&SF and Arcade Hotel was opened in 1899. The Switchman's tower is also visible in the fourth photo. This grand building served as depot, hotel, and related businesses until 1929. (Photo 4)Today, the depot serves Amtrak as well as providing office space.(Kristine Schmucker)

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Newton's Harvey House

Fred Harvey & Newton KansasNewton's Harvey House was in operation from 1882-1955, making it the longest continuous Harvey House in the system.The Newton Harvey House was first located in the Arcade Hotel and Depot (5th & Main) and later at the Clark Hotel (4th & Main), finally at the present Santa Fe Railroad Depot building (5th & Main).In 1897, the Harvey management decided to make Newton a production and distribution center for points as far west as Albuquerque. In 1901, the entire system included fifteen hotels, forty-seven restaurants, and thirty dinning cars.Of that total approximately half were supplied with fresh produce by Newton through the Fred Harvey farm in (poultry and dairy). The Newton site also had a carbonation plant and a steam laundry business. The farm and carbonation plant were located on W 1st and the laundry across the street.(Kristine Schmucker)

21

Notorious Newton: the first Saloon & the First Well

In 1871, 4th & Main was the site of Newton's first saloon run by Henry Lovett, others soon popped up with names like "The Mint", "Alamo" and "Bull's Head" along Main street. At one point in the summer of 1871 Newton had an estimated twenty-seven saloons. By 1873, the number of saloons had diminished to six.Newton's Water SupplyA good water supply was essential and two wells were dug in Newton in the summer of 1871. One was located at the intersection of 5th & Main. There actually is a marker in the street at the intersection of 5th & Main to indicate the location (wait for a long train to go look).This also is the original location of town the Wishing Well Water fountain, which today is located at 8th & Main.(Kristine Schmucker)

22

422- 424 N. Main

This photo from the 1911 A.H.T.A. meeting in Newton show the 400 Block of Main before the 1930 Santa Fe Railroad Depot was built, when all of these buildings were demolished.Prior to 1929, the 400 Block was the home of several businesses, including Atchison's Hardware Store, Anderson's Bookstore & Stationary and Reese's Drug Store & Jewelry.Anderson's moved to 522 N Main in 1929 when the new depot was built. At that same time, Reese's Drug Store moved to 611 N Main. All of the buildings were demolished. Reese's Drug Store at 426 N Main had the distinction of being the first stone building built in Newton. (Kristine Schmucker)

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Notorious Newton - 5th & Main

First Businesses at 5th & MainWalton BlacksmithThe first business that opened in what would be Newton was a blacksmith shop owned by Robert Walton. Walton left his home in Darlington, WI, for the vast prairies of Kansas in 1871. He arrived in the area before the exact location of the railroad and town site was known. He took a chance and began building his blacksmith shop three miles northeast of present day Newton. When he learned the exact location site of the new town, he dismantled his nearly complete shop, moved to what would become W 5th, 2 blocks from Main. (opposite side of the street) A. F. Horner's Supply & StorageLocated at 5th & Main, A. F. Horner's Supply & Storage store is believed to be the first building located in Newton. Horner moved the structure from Florence, Ks to Newton in the spring of 1871. A year later he moved it to Hutchinson. Legend has it that Horner received three monetary prize in contests sponsored by the railroad company for erecting the first building in each of these towns. "Newton Summer of '72"Pen & ink drawing from photo by W.R. Murphy, 1898. W.R. Murphy, a long time Newton photographer, created this pen and ink drawing from the original 1871 photo taken, most likely by Gillingham, in July 1871. Original at the Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, Newton, Ks.(Kristine Schmucker)

24

500 Block of N Main Fire Destroys Entire Block!

Fire on Main, Aug 4, 1914On the morning of August 4, 1914, Harvey County residents woke to devastating news that a massive fire was burning "the most populous block" in Newton. By the time the fire was put out the entire east side of the 500 block of Main was in ruins. This disaster changed the face of Newton's Main Street.The most devastating fire in Newton’s history started at 2:00 a.m., August 4, 1914 in the City Auditorium at 124-126 E 5th. An alert Santa Fe switchman, Patrick Hays, was working "at the Sand Creek switch yard early Tuesday morning, when he noticed flames in town." Thinking the Santa Fe roundhouse was on fire, he ran to get help only to discover flames coming from the Auditorium Hotel on East 5th. Hayes was one of the first ones on the scene and he immediately started helping the firemen. He was even able to hold "the hose direct from the engine for an hour without relief. . . work that usually took four men or at least two." Hayes fought the fire until he collapsed from fatigue and was taken to Axtell Hospital. It was noted that Hayes had been renting "a room at the Auditorium hotel and had lost all in the fire."From the Auditorium, the fire quickly spread to the north and west. Even though the fire fighters were able to get there in minutes, after an hour of trying to gain control, they were unable to stop the inferno. They decided to call the Wichita Fire Dept., which arrived on the train at about 5:00 a.m.. A fortunate shift in the wind kept the fire from spreading even further.This was the first test of the new motorized fire engine purchased in May. The pumper ran continuously for 16 hours, breaking the old record of 8 hours of continuous pumping. At times the heat from the fire was so intense that the paint on the engine blistered.The Newton Fire Dept. consisted of Chief O.N. Eberle, driver Ed. C. Warhurst, fireman Israel Richardson and seven volunteers. In addition to the Wichita Fire Dept, members of the Santa Fe Railroad Fire Dept and many volunteers. also helped fight the fire that day.Remarkably, no lives were lost in the fire and very few injuries.In addition to Hayes, fireman Aster Early, was "overcome by the heat" andsuffered from smoke inhalation. He was taken home and soon recovered. W.C. Moore also received minor injuries.The fire destroyed the east side of the 500 block of Main and several businesses located in the 100 block of E. 5th and 6th. Buildings on the west side of Main were damaged, mainly with broken windows and smoke damage. Volunteers set up a brigade and "worked so persistently on the tops of buildings on the west side of Main street." They were credited with saving the buildings.Businesses identified in the 1930 photo (#5): 500-502 Railroad Building Loan; 504 Electric Power and Light; 506 Star Theater; 508 Palace of Sweets Lunch Room; 510 Strickler' s Variety Store; 512-514 Rorabaugh Kennell Dry Goods Co.; 516 Duggin Grocery, Halligan Market; 518 Regent Theater and Regent Barber Shop; 520 Western Union; 522 Anderson Book Store; 524 May Shoe Store; 526 First National Bank. Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, published 08/01/2014, Voices of Harvey County.

25

500 N. Main

Railroad Savings & Loan Building, 500 N Main, 1925Architect: Samuel Greenebaum, Newton NativeNR NKThis elegant building is in the the Renaissance (Beaux Arts) style. A monumental building faced with cut limestone, it has numerous classical oornamentations. Most prominent are the high Corinthian pilasters, the tall arched windows with keystones topped with lions' heads and the overall symmetrical proportions. Samuel Greenebaum, the architect, grew up in Newton. He was a partner in the Kansas City firm, Greenebaum, Hardy & Schumacher. As a student in Paris, he fell in love with the Beaux Arts architecture and that influence can be found in Newton. He designed several other buildings including the Ripley Hotel (demolished) Lincoln School on W 5th, and the Newton High School (today Santa Fe Middle school on W 7th).Railroad Savings & Loan Building was organized in 1896 by a group of railroad men who believed the area needed a home financing agency. It was located in various buildings on Main street before taking ownership of the building at 500 N. Main in March 1915. At one time, the Railroad Savings & Loan was one of the largest financial institutions in Kansas. The original building on this lot was home to Midland Bank. Built in approximately 1886, the brick and limestone structure helped frame the east side of the 500 Main Block. The north corner was home to an equally impressive structure which housed the First National Bank (526 N Main). (Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

26

502-504 N. Main

In 1885, the People's Grocery occupied the building at 502 N. Main in addition to "L. P. Spencer, Justice of the Peace. Lizzie Coult's Bookstore was located at 504 N. Main. These buildings burned in the 1914 fire.From 1938 to 1997, this building was home to the shoe store Wiley's & McCalls. The original storefront is covered by the current 1950s facade. This family owned business operated nine stores in six Kansas communities well in the 1980s.One item of peculiarity to McCall's was their shoe-fitting fluoroscope. This provided an x-ray of the foot in the shoe to ensure a good fit. McCall's used the machine until the 1950s when concern for customer safety and radiation exposure began to circulate from medical studies.(Billie Wilson)

27

506 N. Main

The Western Star Theater opened in Newton at Broadway and Main in January 1907. It was sold in 1908 and reopened at 507 Main. In July 1909, it was sold again and remodeled. It was bought by Chris Wagner and moved to 506 N. Main in the spring of 1913 with a new name - Star Theater.In the 1914 fire, the building itself did not burn, but the equipment was destroyed. Repairs were made and the theater was sold - briefly - and bought back by Mr. Wagner. He continued to operated it until his death in 1920 when his son, Edward Wagner, took over. The Star closed for good sometime between 1940 and 1943. Note the art work featuring clouds and a Santa Fe engine installed by local artist, Phil Epp.(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

28

506 - 508 N. Main

Following the fire of 1914, this building was home to the Palace of Sweets, a confectionery. It appears in directories at this address until at least 1928 when it became El Patio Sweet Shop. By 1940, it had become El Patio Cafe. In 1952, city directories list the property as Graber's Hardware, which still exists today on W Broadway. (Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

29

510 - 514 N. Main

Originally owned by the Duff family, the 3-story building at 510-514 N. Main, was a dominating structure on Newton's Main street. The Duffs sold the department store to T.H. McManus. He sold everything from men's and ladies' clothing and shoes to grocery items. The building was destroyed in the 1914 fire.Following the fire, McManus relocated to opera house (710 N Main) while a new building was being built. He lost everything again in the fire that destroyed the Ragsdale Opera House January 1, 1915. McManus sold the business in 1917 to Axtell & Pendroy.In 1953, the building at 512 N Main, known as the KG&E building caught fire on February 21, 1953. The Newton Evening Kansan noted that "a three-alarm fire of undetermined origin swept through the Kansas Gas and Electric Company building, 512 Main street, Saturday morning, completely gutting the building and causing untold damage . . ."The newspaper continues to describe the fire. At first "firemen with masks attempted to enter the building but reported the blazing inferno 'too hot' to get near." Eventually, four trucks were on the scene to fight the fire. At 10:45 a.m., the back wall of the structure collapsed. After the collapse, the firefighters were able to get the fire under control soon after.The fire likely started in the basement. Other businesses affected included Gordon Ladies Wear Shop, Graber's Hardware and Brumback Paint & Paper Store. The Kansan reported that "a throng of over 2,000 people trampled the watery street and alley behind the building witnessing the fighting procedure." Damage was estimated at $50,000.(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

30

518-524 N. Main

520 N MainThe history of movie theaters in Newton can be traced almost to their invention. In 1910, the Gem Theater was opened by H. E. Herbert at 621 N. Main. It was considered somewhat of a gem in downtown as it had elevated seats, "fine opera chairs" and a seating capacity of around 300. It ran almost continuously until Mr. Herbert entered into an agreement following the 1914 fire with T.H. McManus for the construction of a first class theater at 520 N. Main. The Royal Theater opened in the winter of 1914 at 520 N Main.The Royal Theater was successful despite having been sold several times. Each change of ownership brought updates, improvements and a new name. In 1921, O.K. Mason made some significant changes when he enlarged the theater. The stage was reconstructed to allow for vaudeville attraction and seating was increased to 750. Renamed the Regent Theatre, it operated in this capacity until it was purchased by Twentieth Century Fox in 1955 and renamed the Fox Theater.Today, the name is the same, but the theater is home to the Gathering Church.Photographs Photo 2: Star Theater, pre-1914.Photo 3: The remaining facades of the Star Theater, Plumb's China Emporium, and Home State Bank.Photo 4: After the fire with "The Happy Day - November 11, 1918" written on the back. Businesses: Royal Theater 518, Western Union Telegraph Co. 520, K. C. Billiard Parlor 522, May Shoe Store 524, First National Bank, 526, and Kansas State Bank, 600.Photo 5: 524 N Main - Will May's Shoe Store after the fire.524 N MainToday's building at 524 N Main was built following the devastating fire in 1914. A shoe store owned by Will May was listed at this address. Will May was one of the first businessmen to open a store in Newton. In 1871, he was and 'exhibitor' in Peter Luhn's Store. The locations of his previous stores had been in the 600 Block of Main.After the fire, May rebuilt his shoe store. In 1926, Freeman's Shoe Shine had partnered with him. Lynch Shoe Store took over by 1940, but Freeman's remained. By 1956, Ott's Bootery had taken over the entire business. (Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

31

526 N. Main

Founded by Jarius Edward Neal in June 1873, the Harvey County Savings bank opened their doors at 604 N. Main. They were the first bank in Harvey County. In 1879, a group of Newtonians purchased majority stock and it was renamed Newton City Bank. They received their federal charter in August 1882 as the First National Bank of Newton and relocated to 526 N. Main.First National Bank was only one of seven that survived the financial panic of 1890. The bought out the First State Bank of Newton in 1889 and the Home State Bank in 1914. The building was demolished in the 1914 fire. A year later, the First National Bank reopened in their new building. Today, First National Bank of Newton carries on its legacy as the oldest bank in Newton and Harvey County at the corner of Broadway and Oak. (Billie Wilson)

32

600 N. Main

An early businessman, C.A. Swenson established his first business, a grocery store, at 600 N. Main as early as 1875. In 1886, C.A. Swenson replaced his wood frame store front with a three story brick structure that anchored the south corner of the 600 Block. In 1908, a fire swept through several buildings in the 600 block damaging several including the Swenson Building. Other buildings affected included 602 - 608 N. Main. For much of the building's history it was home to the Kansas State Bank, incorporated in October 1902. Bernhard Warkentin served as its first president until his death in 1908. In its prime, the bank was considered one of the strongest financial institutions in central Kansas. The building was listed as one of the most "convenient, comfortable and handsome bank homes." The Kansas State Bank was bought by the 4th National Bank Holding Co. and renamed Bank IV. It was eventually purchased by Bank of America.In 1977, the grand three story building was demolished and a new building replaced it. (Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

33

604-608 N. Main

First Businesses - Lehman's HardwareSamuel Lehman arrived in Newton from Ohio in June 1871. He purchased the lot at 604 N Main and built a 25 foot wood frame structure and opened his hardware and implement business. With business expansion, he eventually rebuilt and took over 606 and 608.Samuel Lehman is credited with having the necessary hardware and implements to construct many of the original structures in the region. He also had the distinction of selling more Cassidy plows in one season than any retail firm in the United States. Lehman died at the age of 72 in October 1920, leaving his nephew, Clayton Lehman, to take over the business. Lehman's closed in 1966, after operating for more than 80 years on Main Street.(Kristine Schmucker)

34

610 - 612 N. Main

The building at 610 N. Main was constructed around 1910 with modifications to the facade in the 1920s. 612 N. Main appears to have been built in the 1880s and housed a harness shop until the 1920s. In the 1920s, two brother from Greece arrived in Newton "resolved to make and to fill a place of service in the community." They did this by opening a restaurant at 610 N. Main. By 1922, the Sunflower Cafe was a popular restaurant. The upstairs dining hall could accommodate 200 diners and "service was supplied with speed and efficiency."The Sunflower Café was ‘the’ place to eat during the 1940s; “and you didn’t wear your everyday clothes to go eat there.” One woman who was able to get a job as a dishwasher noted that “it was a privilege to even work there as a dishwasher!”Famous for “Newton’s best U.S. choice steer steaks and fried chicken our specialty,” the Sunflower Café was a popular meeting place for the Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce and Lyon’s Club.The restaurant also boasted air conditioned dining. Paul F. with his wife, Theoni, owned and operated the Sunflower Café until the 1950s.These buildings are also well known for the restaurant that replaced the Sunflower Cafe in 1957, the Guesthouse. The new owners, James Rutschman and Dr. J. W. Fretz, tried something new, the buffet. Not only was this the first buffet restaurant in Newton, it was one of three in Kansas. Fretz and Rutschmann were also trail blazers in another way, they insisted on integrating, the first restaurant to do so in Newton. Most restaurants did not allow minorities to be seated in the main dining areas. Newton theaters and the swimming pool were still segregated in the 1950s. At the Guesthouse, all people were welcome to come in, sit down and be served at the Guesthouse. The Guesthouse operated here until the 1970s. In 2012, a shingled awning was removed and the sign for the Guesthouse found. It was restored and is preserved beneath the current awning. (Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

35

616 N. Main

In 1888, C.F. Claassen started a loan and bond business, hiring J.G. Regier in 1896. Mr. Claassen became involved in the Kansas State Bank and sold his interest to Regier in 1904. Regier, with his brother, W.W. Regier, grew the organization performing loan negotiations on farms and city properties, handling municipal and government securities, writing fire and tornado insurance, drafting abstracts and many other duties for the county. In 1919, they purchased this building and remodeled it into a "modern" office, which included adding a vault to allow them to support a large client base.On the north end of the facade, there is an old burglar alarm still intact from the Regier's.The Regier Title, Inc. continues to operate today at the corner of Broadway and Oak.(Billie Wilson)

36

618-626 N. Main

Today's building was constructed in the early 1970s. Originally five buildings stood offering a variety of businesses throughout the years.M.M. Herbert opened and confectionery called Herbert's in 1906, selling candy and cigars. He moved to 620 N Main in 1917 and expanded his offerings. This later became Hanna Confectionary owned by Leo C. Hanna.In 1926, two restaurants occupied the buildings at 624 and 622 N Main, the Oasis and the Stewart Cafe.In 1937 - 38, Leo Hanna opened Hanna Furniture at 626 N. Main. The building was completely demolished and replaced with a new structure. The store moved in 1946 to 705 N Main. Newton photographer, McDaniel, also had his studio on the second floor of 626 N Main for many years.(Billie Wilson)

37

700 N. Main

The Masonic Lodge No 142 was organized in 1873 with their first meeting held in a school house. The commissioned the construction of the building at 700 N Main in 1879 with the lodge rooms located on the second floor. The main floor was planned to serve as rental space for the Harvey County courthouse. Harvey County rented this space twice before moving in the newly built courthouse in 1907. In 1931, the building was extensively remodeld, but the orginal Main Street facade was maintained. In 1961, the front facade was modified to match the south elevation. (Billie Wilson)

38

704-706 N. Main

704 - 706 N Main has a long history of businesses. In 1887, the Angood family had a store at this location. Up until the mid 1920s, the Angoods operated businesses in 704 and 706 N Main. Other businesses that were located in the buildings were the Santa Fe Shaving Parlor operated by Swengel & Sons and Hetzel's Clothing Shop.In the 1960s, Maxwell Flowers was located at this address. During a time of updating the town, metal siding was installed on these building and many others along N Main. However by the mid 1990s there was renewed appreciation for the older architectural details and the siding was removed. (Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

40

712-714 N Main

These buildings have lost their historic facades, but have stood since at least the 1880s. The building at 712 N Main has been a variety of businesses from shoe repair to journalism and even a tire store. 714 N Main was more consistent with longer running businesses including the Master Cleaners & Dryers in the 1920 and 30s.(Billie Wilson)

41

716-718 N Main

C.H. Northfoss Furniture and Undertaking, which appears to have started at 712 N Main, once operated a successful furniture business in this building in combination with undertaking services. The building probably dates from 1919 but underwent substantial renovations in the 1930s.(Billie Wilson)

42

720-722 N Main

NR NKThe Mennonite Buildings, 716 - 722 N Main, 1914. In the 1960s, it was common to cover the original brick facades with metal or other materials. These building were no different. For years the brick was covered with a blue metal siding. In 2002, there was a major restoration and the metal covering was removed and the facade was returned to original appearance.The original location of the Mennonite publishing company, Herald Press, and later a bookstore, Faith & Life Bookstore. The buildings also served as the headquarters for the General Conference Mennonite Church up through 1995. Today, offices for the Mennonite Church USA (MCUSA) are headquartered here. (Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

43

724 N Main

J. S. Dillon & Sons opened their second location at this address between 1934 and 1937. It served the north part of the community until the new store was built at 12th & Main.(Billie Wilson)

45

800 Main Courthouse Block

From 1907 to 1965/66, some of the grandest structures in Newton were located in the 800 Block of N Main, including the 1st Presbyterian Church, the Harvey County Courthouse, and at the corner of 7th and Main St. Mary's Catholic Church. Also located in this block was the Harvey County Jail and several homes of prominent Newtonians. Today, only St. Mary's Catholic Church remains. The 1960s and 70s were a time of modernization and urban renewal. Newton wanted to project the image of a progressive community. The old elaborate historic buildings were seen as 'dated' and many favored buildings with cleaner lines without the features that make a building unique. It was during this period that many of Newton's older buildings got a "makeover" with modern steel siding to cover the 1880s facades. It was also a time when it was just easier to start over with a new building that would promote what the message the people wanted. A new courthouse was built in 1965-66.(Kristine Schmucker)

46

Courthouse Block Jail

Despite the early history of violence in Newton, there was not a county jail until 1880. Prisoners deemed "real bad men" were either guarded or taken to prisons in another county. Less violent, "ordinary culprits" were locked up in "makeshift cabooses or allowed to come and go on their own recognizance." In 1879, "after much discussion and agitation" the county commissioners decided a county jail was needed. The proposition issuing county bonds for a jail was put on the November ballot. The proposition passed 997 in favor, 712 against.S. Chamberlian contracted to build "a two story stone building with double tier of cells" for $5,975. The jail was constructed out of large slabs of Florence rock. Also included, two reservoirs on the east end of the building to retain water from the roof and an apartment for the "jailer and his family." The jail was completed in 1880.There seemed to be difficulties soon after completion. The contractor, Chamberlain, "lost considerable money . . . the reservoirs never proved a success and it soon developed that Florence rock was not the proper material to use in jail construction." The rock walls created an unhealthy, damp environment. In 1905, "health officers . . . demand[ed] a new jail" because of the poor living conditions. When put on the ballot, the proposition failed in 1905 and a second time in 1908.Another unforeseen difficulty was securing prisoners. A reporter observed that escape was not a challenge with "prisoners able to dig out almost at will."The issue of a new jail was brought up several times between 1908 and 1916. The Evening Kansan Republican described the conditions in the jail and sheriff's residence with the headline "County Jail is a Stinking Place." The sheriff's residence was dismal with poor ventilation and a single "flimsy wooden stairway" to the second floor creating a potential firetrap. The presence of bars, "jail fashion," on the windows of the family bedrooms added to the danger. The editor warned that "in the event of a fire which would almost instantly cut off the inside stairway, occupants of these bedrooms would be quickly roasted, like rats in a trap."The cell block for inmates was also sub par with no heating system. The only method to prevent prisoners from freezing was the use of "coal fires in some ramshackle old stove." The system of locking the jail cells was also complicated and required that the sheriff lock and unlock all the cells at one time. The article described the cells as "almost indescribably filthy" and not fit even for dogs. The conditions were not unlike what "one would expect to find the prison pens of the south during the civil war."Finally in August 1916 at a special election, the proposition to build for a new jail passed 928 to 460.D.S.Welsh demolished the 1880 structure and several other local men were involved in the "landscape gardening" which made "the jail and courthouse premises really one of the beauty spots of the city." The new jail was open for use in October 1917.In 1922, the author of the section on "Harvey County Jails" noted that "the present jail should be adequate for the needs of the county remainder of this century. It is sanitary, strongly built, room, and ornate. Ample housing for the jailer and family is provided. " The elected county sheriff and his family continued the practice of living at the jail. The last sheriff to live at the jail with his family was Earl 'Russ' Werner 1961-1965. Werner was also instrumental in planning the new jail constructed in connection with the new courthouse in the mid-1960s.Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, published 06/01/2018, Voices of Harvey County

47

Courthouse Block - 1st Presbyterian Church

On the southwest corner of the block stood the 1st Presbyterian Church. The Richardsonian Romanesque style building was designed by architect Charles W. Squires. The square shape of the church was defined by the towers protruding from the corners and constructed in red brick.This was the first building in the 800 block of N Main. Construction began in February 1903. In 1914, J. D. Nicholson commissioned local artist, J. Franklin Caveny, to paint a large mural for the church, "The Christ Child Among the Doctors." When the church was torn down, the mural along with several stain glass pieces were moved to the new building on Columbus Ave. Today, the congregation is located on Columbus Ave, Newton, Ks.(Kristine Schmucker)

49

800 N Main

St Mary's Catholic Church, 1902-04The Romanesque Revival style church was built by local parish members, William and George Hanna, The interior has notable stained glass and murals. The nearby school was constructed in 1909 and the rectory in 1914. The history of the church dates to 1873 when work was started 1873 on a wood structure at the northeast corner of E 6th and Oak. (Photo 1) Completed in 1875, the building of this church was significant in that it combined the Irish and German Catholic families in the area into on congregation. In 1904, a new brick structure was completed at 800 N Main. The congregation remains active.(Kristine Schmucker)

50

Wishing Well

From the Newton Kansan, April 6, 1978."A familiar Newton landmark, the 'wishing well' [water fountain] long located in front of the Amtrak station, took a ride down Main Street yesterday afternoon. Employees of the Curteman Construction Co., the general contractor, and Bartel's House Moving Co., of Hillsboro, the sub-contractor, moved the 18-ton limestone structure. Originally slated for demolition to make way for a new mini-park in front of the railroad station, the fountain will become the cornerstone of the recently developed Mid-Town Park at the intersection of 8th Street and Main."(Kristine Schmucker)

51

817-819 N Main

Prior to 1915, the home of H.H. McAdams was located at 821 N Main. In 1915, Becker built a home with a grocery store at 819 N Main. Later, it was the location for Fey & Son Grocery and in 1958, a Sherwin Williams store. The current building was constructed in approximately 1929 as Enns Super Service with an auto service station added in 1934.(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

52

815 N Main

In the early 1880s, Newton was growing. The 'rougher' cowboys and the businesses associated with them had moved south to Wichita with the cattle trade. Town leaders focused on building a community with stable businesses. Several businesses were soon established along Main, just north of the railroad tracks between 5th and Broadway including banks, hotels and general stores. The Ragsdale Opera House at the corner of Broadway and Main was completed in 1885. North of the Opera House there was still plenty of room for businesses. The First Methodist Church was located at the corner of 7th and Main. The new Harvey County Jail had just been completed between on the east side of Main between 7th & 8th, otherwise few businesses had moved that far north. There were opportunities for growth in Newton, Kansas.In 1883, 22 year old William Bergh, a native of Luxemburg, Germany, arrived in Newton Kansas. He was skilled at working with metal and within four years he established the Newton Cornice and Tin Works at 815 Main, next door to the Bretch Building which was built in 1888.Bergh built the building at 815 N Main in the Italianate style which featured his skill with metal.Bergh operated his business until 1918, when he retired. His obituary stated that "he was the owner of the largest cornice and metal works business ever constructed in Newton." Bergh died in 1933 at the age of 71.Over the years, the building at 815 Main has been home to a number of businesses. Often the second floor served as apartments."First Hispanic business owner on Main Street"In 1971, it became the location of Cuellar Sewing Machine Co. Rosalio 'Russ' Cuellar grew up in Newton. After graduating from Newton High, Cuellar worked for the Santa Fe Railroad, but soon he was looking for another opportunity. He started working for the Singer Sewing Machine Co as a salesman and technician. By 1967, he was able to open his own store in Newton. Four years later, he became the "first Hispanic business owner on Main Street in Newton" when he moved his business to the building at 815 Main.In addition to his business, Cuellar served as a court interpreter and was active in various community organization and Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. He married Judy Macias in 1951 and they had six children. Cuellar died in 2010 at the age of 79.In 2003, the building at 815 Main was included in "Main Street Historic District No 2" on both the National Register and Kansas Register of Historic Places.The building was demolished in 2019.Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, published Voice of Harvey County.

53

811 N Main

Standing next to 815 N Main was a three story structure built in 1888 known as the Bretch Building. The architect was William L. Ross and the building served as the county courthouse for several years. The Bethel Business College was later located in this building..Between 1911 and 1917, Chas. N. Parsons is listed as the superintendent of the Bethel Commercial College, later the Newton Business College, located on the third floor. In the 1923, he is listed as the manager of Parsons Apartments. The building remained as the Parsons Apartments until the early 1960s. Demolished in 1994.Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, published 03/07/2015, Voice of Harvey County.

54

801 N Main

First United Methodist Church, 801 N Main, 1916-17.NR KRArchitects: Hawk & Parr, OklahomaContractors were E.C. Fox & Son.Proving the point that there is a church on every corner in Newton, the intersections at 8th & Main, and 7th & Main did at one time have a church on three of the four corners. In addition to the 1st Presbyterian Church (pre 1966) and St Mary Catholic Church, the First United Methodist Church has called this corner theirs since 1883 when the first wood frame building was built.In 1917 a new Methodist church was built. Features include the Greco-Roman style, a dome of green glazed tiles and the towering Corinthian columns "Christianized with angels in the capitals." The interior includes both "Christian and purely classic Greek" decoration. The addition to the north was added in 1964-65.The Methodist church has a long history in Newton, beginning in 1871.(Kristine Schmucker)

55

Notorious Newton - The First Sermon

Preaching in the Wickedest Town in the WestThe 1st Methodist Church got it's start when Rev. Milton Haun decided to hold church in the Gold Room Saloon located in the 500 Block of Main in the fall of1871.According to several sources, Haun asked the proprietor of the saloon for permission to hold a religious service the next day. The proprietor, the son of a Methodist preacher, gave permission and offered to bring his Methodist hymnal to help with the singing.The next day Haun arrived at the saloon, which was crowded with men playing cards and drinking. He "selected a familiar hymn, which the proprietor and the women joined in. Then he read a passage of scripture after which he offered a very impressive prayer." Haun later recalled that it was so quiet at the close of the prayer "you could have heard a pin drop." However, that must have been about all the church the cowboys felt was necessary, because as Haun recalled, "when he began to talk of Christ and Him being crucified, . . . the men got restless and noisy."Haun remembered that "they asked him to have something to drink. He refused the invitation." He was then offered a glass of lemonade. Suspicious, Haun stated he "would only drink the lemonade provided he saw it being made." He concluded his story by noting that the proprietor walked him to the door and gave him a five dollar bill.Rev. Milton Mars Haun was one of the larger than life people in Newton's early history and is usually credited with being the first preacher to preach in wild and wicked Newton. One can imagine a fiery, confident minister walking into a saloon, singing a hymn, and leading a stunned, silent crowd in prayer. Haun was confident in his convictions. In later descriptions, Haun was described as a "radical prohibitionist." Those that knew Haun noted it would have been completely out of character for Haun to drink anything other than water after his sermon in the Gold Room Saloon.(Kristine Schmucker)Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, published 03/02/2022, Voices of Harvey County

56

725 N Main

Newton Post Office, 1909-10Architect: James Knox TaylorNR KR.In 1909, a new Post Office was constructed at 725 N Main in the Renaissance Revival style. The architect was James Knox Taylor. Previously the post office was located in the Opera House at the corner of Main & Broadway.In 1963, a new post office was built at W 4th & Poplar. This building then served a the Newton School District administration offices for many years. In 2011, Cornerstone Law purchased the building. When updating the interior for use in today's world, they worked to preserve the original character and use of the building including the the use of the old mailbox panels as wall dividers.(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

57

715-717 N Main

715 N MainSanner Feed & Seed Store was established in by James Sanner at an unknown location. After being open a year, they moved to the Masonic Temple Building at 770 N Main. Business continued to grow and they moved to a location in the 600 block before finally selecting a site and building at 715 N Main in August 1902. The Sanner's moved from this building in 1912 due to continued growth. 717 N MainThe building at 717 N Main was built between 1909 and 1910 and home to Howard S. Dickey Music Store starting around 1912.(Billie Wilson)

58

713 N Main

Built between 1909 and 1915, this building is identical to 709. In 1916, this building houses an auto service station. In 1921, it is listed as Modern Electric Equipment and in 1923 as the Royston Motor Equipment.(Billie Wilson)

59

709 N Main

Built between 1909 and 1912, it was home to Marten's Motor Co, the building suffered damage in the days following the fire that destroyed the Ragsdale opera house. A wall damaged by the fire collapsed into the showroom destroying several automobiles on display, causing an estimated $8000 in damages. Marten's Motor Co remained at this address until 1921 when the relocated to 120 W Broadway.(Billie Wilson)

60

701 N Main Ragsdale Opera House

Early in the morning on New Year's Day in 1915, Hal Somers and Mary Russell, ran out of gas on their way home from New Year's Eve festivities. As a result, they were walking through Newton at about 2:30 am. They had reached Broadway and Main, when they noticed a light coming from the back of the otherwise dark opera house. They "soon discovered a blaze coming out of the back door in the second story." They ran to a nearby home and sounded the alarm."In a remarkably short time the rear of the building was ablaze all over, and by the time the fire department reached the scene it had gained considerable headway."While the firefighters worked to get the fire under control and keep it from spreading to neighboring buildings, other volunteers tried to save what they could, carrying out valuables and merchandise.The Newton Journal described the scene."In less than an hour the flames licked up the offices and shops at the west end and swept through the McManus dry goods and clothing store at the front of the building and the south wall and belfry were down."The Weekly Kansan Republican noted the loss of the clock, 45 minutes after the fire was discovered. By daylight, the entire building, a landmark since 1885, was gone.30 Years Earlier - Spring 1884In the spring of 1884, James M. and Thaddeus P. Ragsdale, decided to invest in the future of Newton, Ks. Already successful businessmen, the brothers sold their grocery business and began "dealing in real estate." Using their own money, they bought lots, built homes or businesses and sold the improved property. In 1884, they turned their attention to their largest project, building an opera house at the corner of Broadway and Main.It took a year and a half to construct the Ragsdale Opera House beginning in May 1884 and completed in 1885. The massive three story structure covered three lots at 701 Main. Although the exterior had brick and stone, the interior was entirely wooden. The brothers paid $8,000 for the lots and the nearly completed structure cost eighty thousand dollars.The east section of the structure had eight rooms each on the second and third floors with several used for apartments. A winding staircase led to an observatory and a three faced Seth Thomas Clock. The six hundred dollar clock was paid for by donations from the community. The clock had a six foot dial and a six hundred pound bell which, some claimed, could be heard from two miles away on a clear day.The ground floor consisted of businesses, including the Newton Kansan and the Post Office until 1912. The actual theater was located at the west end on the second and third floors. The main entrance to the theater was on Broadway and was marked with a semi-circular sign "Ragsdale Opera House." This was the only indication that it was an opera house on the exterior. From a small lobby, patrons would go up the main stairway, which was constructed of oak and "gracefully curved up up to the main theatre lobby." There was a smaller secondary staircase from the Main Street entrance. The house itself had three levels and seated eight hundred in addition to eight private boxes which could seat five each. The ceiling had ornate frescoes and the walls and woodwork were painted a dark red. Over the next several years, the interior would be repaired, cleaned, and repainted several times. The last improvement to the theater was made in 1911-12, when it was again cleaned and the drop curtain repainted.The Ragsdale brothers lost possession of the opera house on 11 August 1892, as a result of the financial panic of 1890 which was particularly hard on those who had invested in real estate. Despite several new owners, the building continued to be known as the Ragsdale until November 1907. The new owner had the name plate obliterated and replaced with the name "Knoepker Opera House." At about the same time, changes were made to comply with the latest fire regulations.By 1910, the building was showing its age and deteriorating from general neglect. At that time, the possibility of constructing a new opera house was briefly discussed. However, nothing ever came of the discussions.For thirty years, the Opera House was a Newton landmark, home to several businesses and the main center for entertainment.On that early New Year's Day morning, the community lost more than an aging building. One life was lost, Willis T. Green, and several businesses lost everything. A unique historical landmark was gone. The cause of the fire was believed to be broken gas pipes in the southwest room of the stage. However, local residents claimed that a "distinctive odor of oil was detected in the vicinity of the stage" causing many to suspect arson. The actual cause of the fire was never verified.Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, published 12/31/2014, Voices of Harvey County

61

703-705 N Main

Today's buildings were built sometime between 1915 and 1918 following the fire that destroyed the Ragsdale Opera House. (Billie Wilson)

62

627 N Main

This building was built in 1883 and still retains most of the original floor plan including a sliding ladder used to retrieve merchandise. In the early days, J. C. Penney's was at this location. Note the Penney's slogan when you enter the building, "The Golden Rule."Most people know this as Anderson's, the oldest business on Main street.Phil M.Anderson began working in 1892 selling newspapers on Santa Fe trains for the Murphy Brothers at the age of 15. In 1894, he went into business for himself purchasing an 8x16 foot stand at 420 N Main selling newspapers, candy tobacco, cold drinks, and homemade baked goods, which were made by his mother. He met every train from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm. In 1900, his earnings allowed to move into a room at 422 N Main and buy 424 next door a couple of years later. He moved the business to 522 N Main in1929 when the new depot was built. He moved for a final time in 1938 to the current location at 627 N Main. Today, the business is the oldest continually operating business in Newton and is still owned by a direct Anderson descendant, Phil Anderson III.(Billie Wilson)

63

625 N Main

This building appears to be on site in 1896 with a remodel in 1930. Weis & Holinde Billiard Hall was listed at this address in the late 1800s through the 1940s.In the 1963 photo, the photographer is looking south down Main street and Davis Paint is 625 N Main. Also of note, most of the buildings retain at least some of their historic features. Soon the 600 block of N Main would look very different as steel siding was installed on store fronts up and down N Main.(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

64

619 N Main

Today, 619 N Main is home to the Et Cetera Shop, a thrift store operated by Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Over the years many businesses have come and gone from this building originally known as the Boyd Building. In 1886, Ezekiah Palmer operated his business of upholstery at 619 N. Main. He also lived there.In 1887, the first floor seems to be rented out to several different men. Dr. Gaston Boyd practiced medicine on the second floor of 621 1/2 N Main, but boarded at 602 Main. In 1886, Dr Boyd has his practice and home at 619 N. Main. In 1891 fire destroyed the previous building at this location owned by W.M. Tipton, Leadville, CO. The newspapers reported that "only charred stone" remained.The current structure was built by Dr. Gaston Boyd, the first doctor in Newton, in 1896. Dr. Boyd came to Newton in 1871 and attended the men injured in the gunfight in Hide Park on August 20, 1871. Boyd initially built the building for his medical and surgical practice on the 2nd floor. He offered the first floor for rental space for other businesses. In 1911, F.W. Woolworth's opened at 619 N Main, and eventually expanded to three store fronts. Boyd remained on the 2nd floor. The building was remodeled in the 1920s to the current facade. The original facade appears to have had a cornice. This building also served as a Ben Franklin's store for many years in the 1970s and 80s.(Billie Wilson & Kristine Schmucker)

65

617 - 613 N Main

These three buildings were all remodeled in the 1920s to this more flat appearance. 615-617 N Main - These buildings appear to be on site between 1896 and 1901.617 N MainThe Sheridan Cigar Co was located here from 1902-1920, then Scherer Cigar Co. until at least 1948. By 1952, it had become a Gambles.615 N MainSeveral confectioneries have called this building home since 1902. In 1913, R.L. Hogan opened a store with "a little bit of everything," the Racket." Hogan's or the Racket would be a fixture on N Main for the next 56 years.613 N MainRemodeled in the 1930s, a building was listed on this site starting in 1884. In March 1886, J.F. McGrath Grocers was located at this address. In 1888, they moved to 624 N Main, but kept this building as a rental space.(Billie Wilson)

66

611 N Main

Dickey's Drug Store, 1871Redesign 1920s, Architect Ed Forsblom. .NR KROne of the most distinctive buildings on N Main is 611 N Main, sometimes called the "Terra Cotta building," it features exceptional terra cotta tile facade with tiles in two shares of green with yellow sunflowers. (Photos 3 & 4)611 N Main was the home of Dickey's Drug for 80+ years.John B. Dickey was born in Michigan in 1848, where his father was a practicing physician. No doubt he learned much from his father about the pharmaceuticals that would help him in his chosen business. At the age of 22, Dickey headed to Kansas and settled first in Wichita where he worked as an "assistant postmaster." He began to hear about a proposed town north of Wichita and the adventures of a cattle drive. He resigned his job to herd cattle. While working as a cowboy, he contracted malaria. He went to the new drug store in Newton owned by W.P. Pugh for quinine. He argued with Pugh over the high price of the drug. The argument ended with Dickey buying the business paying a monthly rent of $65 to Pugh for the small wood frame building. In June 1871, he opened "Dickey's Drug" in Newton. A year later, building was destroyed by fire, but Dickey's Drug continued.In 1879, he purchased a lot at 611 Main, Newton and built a new structure and for the next 80+ years Dickey's Drug was a Newton fixture. By the turn of the century, Dickey added jewelry to his stock.In addition to running his business, he served on the Newton City Council and as Mayor. Many civic projects, including Newton's Country Club and two public parks, Military and Themian Parks, succeeded because of his "unfailing optimism." In 1921, shortly before his death, he celebrated 50 years in business at 611 Main. J.B. Dickey died October 28, 1921.The business remained in the Dickey family and the building was remodeled in 1929 to its current appearance by the architect Ed Forsblom.After the Dickey's Drugs went out of business, this building was home to different businesses including Katydid, a popular clothing store. Today, it is part of the successful Kitchen Corner & Main Street Co, a clothing boutique and kitchen store. (Kristine Schmucker)

67

605-607 N Main

In the late 1890s and early 1900s, Hanlin's filled the storefronts from 601-607. In 1909, directories list Conrad & Dutcher, a dry goods, millinery and ladies furnishings store at 607.Dutcher had a new partner in 1917 and the name changed to Dutcher and Conner, which operated there until they moved in 1926 to 609 N Main.Sometime between 1930 and 1938, two long running businesses were established at these addresses; Graves Drug Co at 650 N Main and Townsend Dept Store at 607 N Main. By 1962, Townsend's had become Cunningham's which was also a department store. Cunningham's operated at this location until the early 1990s.Graves Drugs ceased operation in the early 1970sToday, the Kitchen Corner & Main Street Co operate from this address.(Billie Wilson)

68

601 N Main

In 1883, the German National Bank called this building home along with a land office, law office, the Golden Eagle Clothing House, Bowman & Butcher Attorneys, J.W. Murphy, real estate agent and several other businesses. The words "Bentley Block 1883" can be seen at the top of the building in photosBy 1910, the building had undergone some remodeling to square off the corner and add large windows to the front facade. The entrance was also changed to face Main street.S.A. Hanlin came to Newton in April 1890 with J.W. Lostutter and together opened their first retail establishment, "the Racket." A year later Lostutter left for Emporia. Hanlin continued and expanded. By 1897, Hanlin Mercantile Co had all the buildings 603 N Main - 601 N Main. Hanlin was noted for his honest, savvy, shrewd business methods and his company continued to grow with stores in McPherson, Arkansas City, Wellington, Wichita,and Medford, OK. He also had supply stores along the railroad to provided goods for railroad workers and their families. In 1912, Hanlin formed a partnership with S.V. Shelp changing the name to Hanlin-Shelp Mercantile. After the death of Shelp in 1914, long time friend of Hanlin, J.J. Lewis, purchase Shelp's stock and the company was renamed Hanlin-Lewis Mercantile. Hanlin sold his interest and retired from the firm in 1915. The Hanlin-Lewis Mercantile continued until at least 1923 when it appears to have been sold and renamed the Cayot Mercantile. By 1938, city directories list J.C. Penney's at the address where it operated until the 1990. In the mid 1960s, the building suffered the same fate as many other Main street buildings and metal siding was installed. Luckily, this was removed in the earl 2000s to return to the 1910 appearance. Today, Prairie, a market with a wide variety of local and specialty foods, is located at 601 N Main.(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

69

Notorious Newton - The 500 Block N Main

Several Newton's earliest business, including some of the most notorious, were established in the 500 Block of N Main. Since the east side of the 500 block had a major fire in 1914, the buildings on the west side of the street are some of the oldest in Newton. Unfortunately, over time, styles have changed and so have the facades. The actual buildings though can be traced back to 1880-1890. At 527 N Main (Corner of 5th & Main) Peter Luhn' Pioneer Store was one of the first of three businesses to open in Newton.The lumber for Luhn's Pioneer Grocery and house arrived in late April 1871. He hired carpenters to begin building immediately. The 500 Block was the location of some of the first saloons in Newton including the notorious Gold Room Saloon. While the east side was victim of a devastating fire, the west side of block was the location of several tragedies. Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives

70

527 N Main

Midland National Bank opened in March 1893 at 500 N Main. In 1907, they purchased the building at 527 N Main from Peter Luhn. The building at 527 N Main can be seen in photos as early as 1879. When Midland Bank bought the building, they remodeled. The building was remodeled several more times in 1922, the early 1960s and again in 1968. In 1977, the building was remodeled a final time to the current structure. In the process of the work, the original wall constructed by Peter Luhn in the 1870s was discovered. The wall was preserved and if one goes inside,one can still see limestone walls from the 1870s. The bank is also notable in the history of the Suderman family. Herman E. Suderman, who came to the United States from Russia in 1885, originally worked for the German National Bank as a janitor and messenger boy, a job he took when he was 13 years old. In 1902, he went to work for Midland. By 1903, he was a director and named vice president. His son. John, succeeded him in 1954. The Sudermans are still involved in the operation of the bank today.Midland Bank merged with Union State Bank in January 2020.(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

71

517-519-521 N Main

517 N MainThis building can be dated to 1878 with altered store front in the 1920s or 30s. N. Barnum & Co. was one of the best known businesses to locate at 517 Main. A dry good store, Barnum's opened in 1878 in the building next door and boasted that they had "the best assorted stocks of dry goods, clothing, boots, and shoes, hats and caps, and etc, to be found anywhere." Barnum's moved to the 517 N Main location in approximately 1900. 519 N MainNewton's first Opera House, built in 1878, was located at 519 N Main. After the Ragsdale was built, Henry J. Sprinkler operated a furniture and undertaking business. 521 N Main - Wilson Drugs, 1978(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

72

515 N Main

The 515 N Main address was a notorious one in the early days of Newton's history, but by 1876 it had gained respectability and was known as the Diamond Block 1876.The Public Library was located on the second floor in the 1890s. The facade underwent major changes in 1966 with the installation of aluminum siding. Toevs Clothing for Men and Boys was a long lasting popular business.(Kristine Schmucker)

73

Notorious Newton - 515 N Main

Saloons, Prayers, and Drug Stores: the building at 515 N Main. The Gold Room Saloon 1871 - 1873In 1871, Isaac Thayer opened the Gold Room Saloon at 515 N Main. Described by a Topeka Commonwealth reporter, the Gold Room Saloon was a large, roughly constructed, frame building. Inside, a twenty foot bar was left of the front door. Barrels containing all kinds of liquors and wine were behind the bar. The “mantle or show part of the bar, lined with clusters of decanters daintily arranged and polished until their shimmer is like that of diamonds” was above. Opposite the bar, were the gaming tables. A raised platform for entertainers was at the rear. (Topeka Commonwealth, September 17, 1871).At some point James Gregory became a partner or bought him out. From 1871 to 1873, Gregory was the primary wholesale dealer for liquor in Newton. He was also the first mayor of Newton. First Church Service515 N Main was the site of the first church service in Newton when Rev. Milton Haun gave a sermon in the Gold Room Saloon.The Gregory Family says Good bye to NewtonIn August, James Gregory, along with his wife, said goodbye to Newton. The August 7 notice in the Newton Kansan reported that Mr. G.S. Bradley purchased the Gregory home in Newton. By December 1873, a new business featuring fancy notions and millinery, opened in the building in the 500 block of Main. Tragedy quickly befell the new business venture. After beginning as one of the 'grandest' saloons in Newton and a hub for early politics, the notorious Gold Room Saloon building burned to the ground in an overnight fire on Dec 8, 1873 (Wichita Eagle Dec 11, 1873).The site of several shootingsJune 15, 1871 Snyder shot and killed Welsh in front of Gregory’s saloon. Both were “cow-boys”. A few days later Johnson killed Irvin in the Parlor Saloon. His pistol was accidentally discharged, the ball passing though a partition and killing Irvin. . a man of no known character."The Shooting of George HallidayOn the November 1872 morning in question, George Halliday was at James Gregory's Gold Rooms Saloon, 515 Main, Newton. Even at the early hour of 10 am, he was reportedly intoxicated.At the same time M. J. Fitzpatrick "had been upon a drunk for perhaps two weeks" and as a result "that wicked nature of his had began to overcome his senses." The previous evening, he had "hunted several parties of his associates with pistol in hand to kill them" with no success. This was his mood when he entered the Gold Room Saloon at 10 am and saw his friend, George Halliday.Some comment passed between the two men that "were ordinarily good friends." Whatever was said caused Fitzpatrick to strike Halliday on the head with the revolver "at the same time he pulled it down to his breast and miss fired once, pulling it again and it was discharged, killing Mr. Halliday almost instantly."Following the shooting, Fitzpatrick "walked into the street defying any person to attempt to touch him. Crowds of men immediately rushed to satisfy themselves as to the affair and in two minutes fifty men ran for firearms and swore him to death." The City Marshall, Jack Johnson, did attempt to arrest Fitzpatrick, "who immediately drew the revolver on him." At which time, Johnson "calmly surveying the situation . . . crossed the street, borrowed a Henry rifle and in another minute put an end to his existence . . . in front of Hamill & Co store."Within fifteen minutes of the shooting, a committee was formed to search out "several hard cases . . . and ordered them to leave town and never come back." At the same time a Coroner's Inquest was convened with John Reid, Justice of the Peace of Newton Township, Harvey County, Ks as the acting coroner. Twelve men, six for each case, were called as jurors. In the case of Fitzpatrick, the jurors included D. Hamill, who owned Hamill & Co located "first door north of the depot" where Fitzpatrick lay dead. Seven witnesses were called. After hearing the statements the jurors, "at the body of M.J. Fitzpatrick, there lying dead" decreed that Fitzpatrick "came to death from a gun shot wound, in the hand of a lawful officer whose attempts to arrest him" failed.The cost of the Inquisition was $16.15.Testimonies and statements were also taken related to the death of George Halliday for the consideration of the six jurors. Five witnesses were called to describe the events of the morning.It was ruled that his death was caused by the actions of M.J. Fitzpatrick. The cost for the Halliday Inquisition was $14.65.Active in the public since his arrival in Newton in 1871, George Halliday was well known in Newton and his former home, Topeka. Shortly after his arrival in Newton, Halliday was appointed justice of the peace following the resignation of Judge C.S. Bowman on August 31, 1871. On February 29, 1872, he, along with R. M. Spivey, was instrumental in the organization of Harvey County, introducing bill H.B. 504 which created the new county. Just seven days prior to the fatal encounter, Halliday was listed as a Republican delegate from Newton.Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, Voices of Harvey County

74

513 N Main

Dating from around 1890, this building was home to B.C. Johnston & Co, a dry goods store. Between 1902 and 1905, the Newton Music Company moved to this address. They sold and repaired pianos and organs, sheet music, and based on advertising, bicycles! The facade was remodeled around 1918 to give it a 'modern front', which remains today. Records indicate the Newton Music Company operated successfully at this address until around 1930. (Billie Wilson)

75

511 N Main

The facade of this building was remodeled in the 1920s or 30s. Reese's Drug Store moved to this address in 1928 from their original location when the Santa Fe bought the remainder of the east side of the 400 block to build the depot that still stands today. The store was operated by the Reese family until the building was sold in 1974. (Billie Wilson)

76

509 N Main

According to advertising, the Commercial Bank was established at this address in 1878 by E. H. Hoag. Hoag was so successful in business endeavors that he was able to build a beautiful home at 303 W Broadway in 1885. The privately owned home is a beautiful example of Queen Anne architecture with a distinctive wrap around porch along W Broadway. Hoag was able to amass a great deal of wealth prior to 1890. His bank, however, did not survive the financial crash of 1890 and may have been one of the first banks in Newton to fail. Following the bank's closure, this building was home to another well-known business, Century Clothing Company. H.M. Walt established a men's clothing store at 509 N Main in 1893. He sold it to a corporation of local businessmen in 1901 and the store was named Century Clothing Co. The business remained at this address until sometime between 1922 and 1944 when it moved to 523 N Main. In 1971, due to the expansion of Midland Bank, the business relocated to 505 N Main where it remained until closing for good in the mid 1990s.Century Clothing Co has the distinction of the longest continuously operating clothing store in Newton. (Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

77

507 N Main

The original building at this address was a one-story wood frame structure. The more substantial structure that stands today was likely built in the 1890s. In 1893, J. P. Weigand and W. A. Hillenbrand operated a cigar factory at this location.From 1905-1955, Horace Reed operated Reed's Clothing Store. He sold men's clothing and accessories. The current facade is from the 1950s. (Kristine Schmucker, Billie Wilson)

78

503 - 505 N Main

These building appear on the Sanborn maps as early as 1886. An early photo from 1890 gives clues to the original entry for 503 N Main. Both facades have been heavily modified from their original appearances.In 1890, the Land Loan & Insurance Office of C. F. Claassen was located at this address (see photo #2). The building was owned by Henry Brunner, a Civil War veteran and Harvey County early settler. Other businesses included a billiard hall run by Josiah Foltz and the office for Dr. S. A. Newhall, Homeopathist. People identified in photo are left standing - C. F. Claassen. right, Josiah Foltz, Henry Brunner.Businesses in the 1957 photograph: Firestone Store 501, House of Fabrics 505, Whittle's Shoe Store 507, Goodyear Service Store 509.In 1968, Evelyn's Fabric Shop was located at 505 N Main.Sometime after 1968, 503 N Main was modified to this tudoresque facade.(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

79

501 N Main

Randall Building, 1911Architect: C.W. TerryGeneral Contractor: F.C. Bordon.NR KRThe Randall Building , built in 1911, is a large three-story Renaissance Revival building, clad in red brick and ornamented with white glazed terra cotta. An elaborate metal cornice tops the building. The architect for the building was C.W. Terry of Wichita. In approximately 1873, the lot at 501 N Main was bought by John A. 'Jack' Randall from Jacob Batdorf who had purchased the land from the Newton Town Company in 1871.By 1885, a substantial two story brick building with an elaborate metal cornice had been built. Photo #1: 500 Block of Main, west side, 1885. Businesses, left to right: 501- Barnett & Foltz Implements; 501 1/2 Williams & White Land & Loan Co.; 505 barber shop; 507- lunch room; 509- Commercial Bank; 511- Malcom's drugs & jewelry; 511 1/2 Democrat newspaper; 513- dry goods; 517- dry goods; 519- Barnum & Co. dry goods and clothing. This building burned in 1910 and was replaced by the current building. John Randall & His Monument to ProgressIn 1872/73, at the age of 28, John A. 'Jack' Randall came to Newton to find his fortune. Born in Nashport, Muskingum County, Ohio, he grew up on the family farm. Once in Newton, he established a connection with the Santa Fe Land Office, and later, the Muse & Spivey Lumber Co. and began buying and selling property in Harvey County.Space in the Randall Building at 501 N. Main was rented to several businesses including Evans Bros Hardware, and B.H. Turner's Law Office. Several men also rented rooms on the second floor.At about noon on a busy Saturday, F. G. Hensey, a plumber working for Evans Hardware in the back southwest corner of the building at 5th & Main, struck a match to light his pipe. "With the flash of the match came another flash, one which filed the room with flame." The entire block shook and a second explosion quickly followed blowing out windows. The fire department was on the scene quickly and "within a half an hour all danger of a serious fire was averted." Although badly burned, Hensey would recover from his injuries. It seemed a crisis had been adverted.At four o'clock in morning the next day "one of the most threatening fires that has ever visited Newton in many years broke out." The early Sunday morning fire was discovered by Mrs. Irving Kendall who lived in the apartment above Kliewer Bros & Adair Clothing Store at 505 N Main. The Evening Kansan Republican reporter described what happened. "A hurried investigation revealed the fact that the Randall building, the scene of Saturday's natural gas explosion, was a seething mass of flames. . . fire pouring from every rear north window of the building."Several renters barely made it out of the burning building. Mrs. Kendall suffered the most injury from smoke inhalation. The heroic efforts of many kept the fire from spreading to the next building."The handsome building is a monument to the progress of the times, growing up as it did in the ashes of its predecessor, one of the pioneer buildings of the street, which was destroyed by fire." Evening Kansan Republican, 22 April 1911.A little over a year later a beautiful new building stood at the corner of 5th & Main.C.W. Terry from Wichita was the architect and F.C. Bordon, also of Wichita, was the general contractor. "The most elaborate building of its kind in Newton" cost $47,000.The exterior featured "red pressed brick and white terra cotta trimming, three stories in height . . .Especially impressive is the heavy cornice which crowns the whole with beautiful effect, the white design contrasting artistically with the natural red body of color of the brick. The cornice is by far the most elaborate job of its kind in Newton and is the work a of a Newton firm."The interior was also "spacious" and the editor of the paper noted that "Mr. Randall spared no price to make these offices most pleasant in appearance and complete in all particulars."For 30 years J.A. Randall was an active participant in the growth of Newton and Harvey County through a variety of real estate ventures. He was also a stock holder in several Harvey County banks and the director of the Kansas State Bank beginning in 1902. At the time of his death in 1915 he was "well-known as one of the wealthiest men in the county." Described as "a reticent man, with unassuming manner" Randall was well-respected in Harvey County. "Though a public spirited man, Mr. Randall never sought public office and was not even a member of any lodge or organization, but his prudent judgment of things of a public nature was sought by the citizens of Newton, and in all the projects he considered worthwhile he gave liberally."Later in life, Randall purchased a ranch ten miles north of Burrton where "he spent much of his time looking after the many details of the farm and it was one of his pleasures to continue to make frequent trips to the ranch."He died at his Burrton ranch unexpectedly on December 11, 1915.Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, published 01/06/2017, Voices of Harvey County

80

The Arkansas Valley Interurban Railway

The Arkansas Valley Interurban Railway served the people and businesses of Newton, Wichita, Hutchinson, and all of the communities in between. The Arkansas Valley Interurban Railway (AVI) was an interurban railway that served the people and businesses of Newton, Wichita, Hutchinson, and all of the communities in between. from 1910 to 1938 for passengers and to 1942 for freight. It operated a small fleet of electrically powered passenger and freight equipment. Service was suspended during World War II and never resumed. (Kristine Schmucker)

81

421-427 N Main

The buildings from 421 to 427 were constructed at the same time and appear to have been designed along the same lines in the Italianate style. All were present by 1886. 425-427 N MainThe ground floor has been altered with the installation of large expanses of plate glass windows and the removal of the entry door.Also known as the Hart building after the original owner, it was built around 1879. Notice the gray hearts under the cornices. 425-427 N Main are the last of the original buildings that marked this intersection at 5th & Main. The 400 and 500 Blocks N Main were the heart of early Newton, Ks.. H. L. HartThe first businesses were run by H.L. Hart. In 1880, Hart began building a masonry building at 425 N Main. The structure would share a wall with 427 N Main, owned by Hart's partner, S.T. Marsh. In 1881, Hart opened Hart's Furnishing Goods at 425 N Main. In 1884, S.T. Marsh died and Hart took over the 427 property. It became the location of Hart's Beehive Clothing. In 1900, the first jewelry store in Newton was opened by George W. Kates at 425 N Main. Eventually, this became the Sterba Jewelry Store. Sterba was the general watch inspector for the middle division of the Santa Fe Railroad. Since then, a variety of businesses resided in these buildings. From grocers and clothing stores to a movie theater, billiards and restaurants.For many years in the 1940s through the 1960s, Rexall Drug Store was a mainstay at this location. Rexall Drug Store closed April 18, 1968.(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

82

Notorious Newton - 421 N Main

Murder on MainShortly before 10:00 on Thursday morning, February 14, 1895, Thomas Williams, the head cook for the Clark Hotel, stepped out of P. Byer's Store at 421 Main after placing an order. He walked south toward the Clark Hotel and had reached Fred Brandt's place when Patrick Rickman rushed out.Some eyewitnesses said that Rickman shouted, "Now I've got you!" before shooting his No. 44 Colt Navy Revolver at Williams. Williams ran and Rickman fired again hitting Williams in the back. Rickman then chased Williams. The two continued to fight. Rickman threw Williams down the stairway to a basement on the south side of the Clark Hotel. He continued to beat Williams with the gun handle. One observer described Rickman as "insane with rage" and Williams "powerless to help himself."Marshall Ainsworth came to the scene and tried to disarm Rickman with little success. Two men, W.C. Conrad and Mart Covert, tried to help. Finally, Covert gave two blows to the head and was able to daze Rickman enough that Ainsworth was able to get the gun away. By the time they were able to separate the two men six shots had been fired. Williams had a gunshot wound and was severely beaten.Williams was carried to Dr. O.W. Roff, where he was pronounced dead.In the Coroner's Inquisition later that day, it was noted that Rickman shot and killed a man on Main street and "more than hundred men saw the brutal act." Thomas Williams, a Black man, was roughly 30 years of age, described as "quiet, industrious, quite a flashy dresser." He had worked for Van Duyn, manager at the Clark Hotel, for 4-5 years. The initial newspaper reports note that he had a wife and child. The report also noted that this "was not the first experience of this sort" involving Williams. However, "for a good number of years he has borne a good reputation." Patrick Rickman was well-known in Newton and described as "a powerfully built negro of large mold and fine physical build, about 35 years . . . one-eighth Indian and has always been a steady and industrious man." A builder by trade and he had even served for a time on the police force.The reporter for the Newton Daily Republican noted that the cause of the fight "was the same old story. A man came between husband and wife and paid his life as a forfeit."An inquisition was held. Of the men interviewed for the inquest most knew Rickman. Only three knew Williams, but not very well. Only one of those interviewed did not know either man.The jurors conclusion"Thomas Williams (Colored) a resident of Newton, Harvey County Kansas, came to his death as the result of a Gun shot wound from a Revolver in the hand of Patrick Rickman (Colored) on Main Street City of Newton, Harvey County, Kansas on the 14th day of February 1895 about the hour of 10 o'clock a.m. upon the above named Thomas Williams (Colored)Patrick Rickman was charged with 1st Degree Murder for the death of Thomas Williams on February 14, 1895.The charged carried the possibility of the death penalty. On July 10, 1895, the Newton Daily Republican began coverage of the trial.Harvey County Attorney, Charles E. Branine spoke for 16 minutes, describing the details of what happened the morning of February 14, 1895. He concluded that the because of the "motive and spirit of the act committed by the defendant" jury would be "unable to return any other verdict than guilty as charged."Attorney Charles Bucher gave the opening statement for the defense. He talked for 30 minutes, describing a family man that found evidence of his wife's adultery. The resulting despair led him to become insane. Bucher concluded that "it would be proved that insanity was in the Rickman blood and that several of Pat's relatives had died . . . with diseased minds." The defense claimed Temporary Insanity.After several days of testimony, the case went to the jury. The jury returned with the verdict after an hour and 15 minutes."When the clerk of the court Foltz read the words 'not guilty' such a shout went up from the court room that no doubt was left as to the popular feeling on the subject. Pat Rickman is a free man."Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archives, Published 06/23/2017 Voices of Harvey County.

83

417 - 419 N Main

417 N MainConstructed in 1885 by H. L. Hart, this building was originally the Brunswick Hotel. 419 N MainIn 1905, the Newton Telephone Co relocated to the second floor of this building. According to the Evening Kansan Republican, on 3 June 1905, the Bell offices were "abolished for all time to come" and moved to this address. The Newton Telephone Co would act as agent of the Bell and "all their lines will be accessible from the board of the home company." The space was remodeled entirely and they installed "one of the most modern and up-to-date plants to be found in Kansas." The current facade is estimated to be from the same period of modernization as the other buildings on this block. (Billie Wilson)

84

411-413 N Main

411 - 413 N MainOne of three large hotels built in in Newton was constructed in the 400 Block on the west side. The July 13, 1883 issue of the Newton Democrat reported that Frank Zurcher removed the old buildings from his lot opposite the depot on Main street, and will commence the erection of a fine building immediately." I. Isaacs, former proprietor of the English Kitchen, oversaw the new hotel known as the Enterprise. The editor described as a hotel and restaurant "on the Eurpoean plan," the Enterprise was "a first class hotel and a credit to our city." Oysters "served in every style" were frequently on the menu. The Isaacs family left for St. Louis in the fall of 1885.Under the management of M. L. Frase. the hotel was renamed the City Hotel and in 1897 was the only hotel in the city to offer $1.00 a day house in the city.The building was purchase by Joseph W. Murphy in approximately 1896. He opened Murphy's Hotel shortly after. Joseph W. Murphy knew how to run hotels.By 1911, he owned four hotels in neighboring towns and employed fifty-two "skilled assistants." The rooms were "first class with steam heat, electric lights and hot and cold water." According to newspaper reporting, Murphy planned to build a five story, 100 room fire proof hotel to replace the one at 411-413 N Main. It is unknown what happened to those plans. In 1919, after 23 years in the hotel business, Murphy sold the business to Fred Fuge.The facades have been altered, likely in the 1920s and 30s. 411 N Main is also the site of Newton's first Pizza Hut.

85

409 N Main

From the "finest hotel in the state" to the site of murder and raids by law enforcement, the buildings at the corner of 4th & Main had a unique history.The southwest corner of 4th and Main was a ideal location for a lodging, and since the mid-1870s a hotel had been located at this corner. Business men of the late 1800s preferred rooms in downtown boarding houses or hotels within easy walking distance of the business district and railroad. For several years, the Rasurre House, located at 4th and Main, provided a place for travelers to stay that was conveniently next to the depot and railroad tracks.In 1869, Illinois native, George Clark settled near Fort Riley, Kansas. Clark later moved to the new "hamlet" of Wichita where he worked as a messenger for several years. During that time, he visited the growing community of Newton, and with the help of his sister, Mrs. Mary L. Howard, decided to enter the business of running a hotel.George Clark purchased the two story Rasurre House in 1876. The hotel was renamed "Howard House" after his brother-in-law, Lt. Ruben Howard, who died in 1875. Clark began to make improvements almost immediately. For a time, Mary, assisted him in the running of the hotel and lunch room.Due to the efforts of the Clark siblings, the reputation of the "Howard House" grew over the years.Newton Daily Republican noted in the 6 August 1886 issue:"We can conscientiously advise our friends to visit the Howard House when at Newton. It is just across from the depot, and is strictly first-class and the proprietor, Mr. Clark would be sure to make you feel at home."In 1886, Clark decided to expand. He hired Varney Bros from Detroit, as architects.The result was a grand four story structure with a basement. The hotel had a frontage of 64 feet on Main and 69 feet on 4th with a circular tower extending to the roof. Clark Hotel, a stone, four story, turret-clad structure, was regarded as one of the “finest hotels in the state.” The interior was also luxurious. The basement housed bath rooms, water closets, and a barber shop in addition to a boiler and laundry. The first floor included a dining and lunch room, reading room, sitting room and clerks office.The dining room was described as the "handsomest in Kansas" with mahogany finished wainscoting on the walls and a ceiling of imitation hammered brass. The separate lunch room was near the front entrance facing Main and was "fitted up with all the modern conveniences and will seat about forty persons." An elevator was located near the clerks office. The second floor contained a bridal parlor, "richly carpeted and furnished." A private residence for the Clark family was also on the second floor. The rest of the second and third floor was contained bedrooms with closets, 76 in total, and each floor had a bathroom.The first floor had both gas and electric lights, and only gas lights on the upper floors. The furniture was also quality.[It came] "direct from the factory at Grand Rapid's, same as that in Coronado House. It is of antique oak and mahogany finish. The carpets are velvet, Wilton and body Brussels, . . . the mattresses . . . were manufactured in the house under the person supervision of Mr. Clark."The Clark Hotel officially opened on Sunday, November 27, 1887 at noon with an elaborate meal and guests from as far away as London.In 1892, George Clark retired from the hotel business for health reasons. George Clark died of consumption a year later on 25 November 1893. He was 50 years old.Thomas J. Simpson from Fredonia, Kansas "assumed charge of Clark's hotel." For the next 20 years, the impressive building at the corner of 4th and Main would undergo changes in management and ownership and eventually be condemned and torn down.In December 1898, it was announced that the Santa Fe Railroad had purchased the Clark Hotel. The Santa Fe used the upper stories of the Clark Hotel building for offices and the Fred Harvey General Store was located on the lower floor.For the next 14 years the building served as headquarters for the Santa Fe railroad. The "spacious dining room was partitioned off into suitable rooms, stairways were blocked and rebuilt, the sleeping rooms were changed and hallways rearranged." Over the years, the structure deteriorated and by 1913 it was "well known . . . that the office building was badly in need of repairs." In a letter published in Evening Kansan Republican Judge Bowman noted that "the building [Clark Hotel] became wind shaken and the officers fearing a wreck vacated the building." On April 19, 1913, the Santa Fe moved the offices to the Dotson Building on East 5th. Initially, the move was temporary, "pending the completion of repairs on the old quarters." However, the needed repairs proved more extensive and expensive than the Santa Fe expected and the once grand landmark was demolished.Kristine Schmucker,Curator, Harvevy County Historical Museum & Archives, published 04/21/2016, 05/07/2016, & 05/025/2016.

86

Notorious Newton 400 Block N. Main

Prohibition In NewtonIn 1913, the editor of the Evening Kansan Republican took some time to reflect on memories of one of the "finest hotels of the middle west." In his musings, he highlighted a forgotten story from Harvey County history."The well-known door under the main staircase through which the thirsty traveler might follow the colored porter, or some well-posted friend, down along a long corridor, around the toilet rooms into a well-appointed bar, and there secure anything in the line of liquid refreshments - this door is still there. . . no doubt hundreds of Kansans . . . can recall many a pilgrimage through the devious windings required to secure the morning eye-opener or the parting night-cap in the old building during the period when the prohibition was gaining a stronghold in Kansas." (Evening Kansan Republican, 19 April 1913)In Newton, several businessmen took advantage of the lax enforcement of the “prohibitory laws” in the late 1890s.In the 1890s, the Newton City Council adopted resolutions to “fine the jointists of the city.” However, enforcement continued to be a problem as the editor of the Newton Daily Republican noted, “only three arrests have been made” since the resolutions. Exactly who should enforce the laws was unclear. Some blamed the county attorney for not enforcing the law and shutting down the ‘joints.’ The other side pointed out that the county attorney relied on information brought to his office for consideration. The county attorney was not a detective. Early in August 1897, Edward C. Willis complained that the “city authorities have been . . . a little slow in doing their sworn duty.” He quoted “the entire Sec. 2532, Statutes of 1889” to make his point that it was the responsibility of the sheriffs, constables, mayors, marshals, police officers “having notice or knowledge of any violations of the provisions . . . to notify the county attorney.” The tension between the two groups no doubt continued.On August 26, 1897, events came to a head when Sheriff Dick Judkins, under the direction of County Attorney W.S. Allen, “moved down on the offenders, having a wagon outside to convey the spoils to the county jail for cold storage.” The Newton Daily Republican reported that four men were arrested for “violation of the prohibitory law, temporary injunctions issued upon them, and goods confiscated.”At the Clark Hotel and a restaurant known as “Gallup’s place,” the sheriff met with some resistance. The paper reported that “at the Hotel Clark, the negro cook flatly refused to allow the sheriff to make search or look into the ice box, sitting down on top of it to prevent ingress.” The cook finally allowed the search “at the point of a revolver.”The next place searched was Conrad’s Drugstore, where “no liquor of any kind could be found.” The sheriff did however, confiscate “the icebox from the bottling works counter, with other paraphernalia.”Judkins met with more resistance at Gallup’s when the cook again sat on the ice box, and again the sheriff’s “revolver was brought into play, with satisfactory results.” The next day, the paper retracted the stories of resistance noting that he did not know “how the story that the two cooks at the two places were so obstinate and that the revolver . . . was necessary . . . is not known. . . . Sheriff Judkins says, however, that all was peaceful.” The editor further notes that yesterday when he printed the story most people believed this to be true.Regardless, five wagon loads of “goods” were hauled to the county jail and stored in the basement for “future disposal” as a result of the raids. Two were sent to jail, George English and Henry Gallup. The other two, E. Horan and E.E. Conrad were able to post the bond of $500 each.A day later, more injunctions were filed against two more “druggists” and two more restaurant owners. After prohibiting the various owners from selling liquor, Probate Judge J.W. Johnson personally “went to the drug stores of E.E. Conrad, O.W. Roff, and W.D. Pearson and took away their permits to sell intoxicating liquors.” Judge Johnson noted that this was “in the best interests of the people . . . by taking away the privilege to sell liquors, which privilege had been abused grossly. . . . he meant to removed it for the good of the community.”Sheriff Judkins was not finished, the paper reported that “immediately after arresting Mr. Porter and Mr. Roff, [Judkins] took the west bound Santa Fe No. 5 for Burrton and Halstead, where this evening he will arrest Ed Debrulier [Burrton] and . . . Charles Steininger and Carl Kaiser of Halstead. These three men are keepers of restaurants and have been violating the prohibitory law.”The Kansas City Gazette reported the next day that “Newton Has Gone Dry” noting that ‘the joints have been running wide open in Newton for many months and until now there has been no attempt to close them.” The paper further noted that “Horan and Conrad are prominent citizens” and that “County Attorney Allen means to push the enforcement of the law and will close every place in the city.”The Harvey County District Court convened on October 5, 1897. The docket included “the cases for the unlawful sale of intoxicating liquors.” Several went to trial, but Conrad, Horan, Porter, Roff and Pearson plead guilty to one count – “the nuisance clause.” The men paid the fines and left. County Attorney Allen cautioned that the cases were not entirely dismissed and that “the county attorney holds the whip hand and can keep the men from violating the law at any future time.”Cases against violators of “prohibitory law” continued to appear in the newspapers throughout the early 1900s as officials sought to enforce the laws at the local level. In 1917, the “bone dry” bill, which banned alcohol statewide, was signed by the Kansas governor. Two years later in 1919, the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution made prohibition the law of the country.Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Havey County Historical Museum & Archives, Published 05/06/2015, Voices of Harvey County

87

Santa Fe Land Office

The Santa Fe Land Office was located on the south side of the track on the west side of Main. Constructed in 1871, the stone structure was torn down in 1967. Muse & Spivey were land agents for the Santa Fe and sold land to early residents and businesses. Over the years, the building was home to many different businesses. In 1962, the vacant building was condemned and torn down.(Billie Wilson)

88

301 N Main Old Mill

Warkentin Mill, 1879NR KR Monarch Mills was built in 1879 by D. Hamill. The large building with the mansard roof was purchase by Bernhard Warkentin in 1886 and renamed the Newton Milling Co. Warkentin is known for his encouragement of the settlement of Mennonite immigrant from Russia to south central Kansas. He encouraged them to also bring the seeds for the Turkey Red hard winter wheat variety with them. This variety of wheat was more suitable to the Kansas environment and could withstand the harsh winter weather. However, Turkey Red was hard to mill and after Warkentin purchased the mill, he introduced a new kind of mill, the roller mill. The hardy, high yield wheat variety thrived in Kansas and its enormous productivity made this region the breadbasket of the world.In the 1970s, the building was at risk and was in the process of demolition when Lloyd Smith, and local manufacturer and inventor, bought the building. The roof had been mostly demolished before it could be stopped. During restoration, the original blueprints were found, enabling reconstruction of the mansard roof. Today, the Old Mill houses several businesses and a restaurant. Bernhard & Wilhelmina Warkentin built their home in 1886 at 211 E. 1st. It is now a carefully preserved house museum.(Billie Wilson, Kristine Schmucker)

89

200 Block N Main

The west side of the 200 Block of N Main has seen perhaps the most changes other than the east side of the 500 Block of N Main. No original buildings from the 1880s remain, yet there is a significant building located here, the Carnegie Library which is on the National Register for Historical Places and the Kansas Register for Historic Places. 229 N MainToday, this small brick building serves as a dentist office, but it was originally built to house the Newton Chamber of Commerce in the 1970s.(Kristine Schmucker)

90

225-227 N Main

The late 1880s was a time of growth and optimism in Newton. The Ragdale brothers built a grand opera house at the corner of Broadway and Main in 1885. Many of Newton's wealthy built homes along East 1st and West Broadway. Business were also growing along Main street on both sides of the tracks. On the south side of the tracks, E. L. Parris opened the Bank of Commerce at the corner of Main and 3rd, in 1888.An 1884 Sanborn map shows a small stone structure at 225 Main identified as a furniture store. A much larger stone structure is indicated at 225-227 Main on the Sanborn map in 1886. In 1886-87, Tin Works with George C. Jones, Tinner, and Bradt & Hubbard Hardware advertised a "New Hardware Store" located at 227 Main.Next door, at 225 Main, the Metropolitan Hotel with restaurant opened in 1886, C. B. Chapman proprietor. The Newton Daily Republican noted "the dining room is handsomely fitted up. The Metropolitan should do good business." L.W. Warner worked as clerk and Mrs. Lizzie Beekwith was the cook. There were two waitresses, Miss Ella Grove and Miss Bertie Ingol according to the 1887 directory.In 1887, Mme. French, a fortune teller, returned from Europe. The Metropolitan became her headquarters where she told "the past and future by planets and astronomy, brings parties together; places the charm upon the head and gives luck and prosperity."By summer 1887, the Metropolitan Hotel was for sale. Described as "a large 3-story stone building of 30 well arranged and well ventilated rooms, and everything is in first-class order; is situated on Main street, south of the depot and is doing a fine business, every room being occupied."Over the next several years, the hotel underwent several changes of management. In 1888, under the management of J. Wilson the hotel was "thoroughly renovated" and renamed the Globe Hotel.The 1890s were something of a reality check for Newton businessmen. On November 27, 1890 “fortunes were swept away in an instant,” when a financial panic swept through Newton. Eight banks closed and real estate plummeted. Many prominent businessmen went bankrupt, including E.L. Parris, financier of the Commerce Block at the corner of 3rd & Main.The Newton Kansan noted that “men who retired at night happy in the thought that they were on the road to wealth, awoke in the morning to find that the boom had busted and their wealth only a myth." No doubt the bust played a role in the turnover of owners and managers at 225-227 N. Main for the next seven years.Optimism returned when the Santa Fe division headquarters relocated to Newton in 1897.The editor of the Newton Daily Republican observed, "Now that prosperity has invaded Newton, some one should start up the old Globe hotel. With the right kind of a man in it, there's money in it." Someone took him up on it. A June 26, 1897 notice in the Newton Daily Republican announced the "Re-opening of the Globe Hotel." The hotel under the management of Goodyear & Short from Nickerson, Ks had "refitted from top to bottom" including interior improvements and new furniture "making it one of the finest hotels in the city."In 1898, the building became the Hotel Newton or more commonly the Newton Hotel. City council spent time at the May 19, 1898 meeting discussing the "exceedingly deplorable" conditions around Newton. First they discussed "the cellar of the Newton hotel and the building adjoining it to the south, . . . it was thought best to fill them up, as they were of no used and filled with odorous water." They also planned to "tour the city and notify property owners to remove manure piles and clean out-houses. . . before warm weather sets in."The Weekly Republican reported July 1, 1898 on the meeting of the Newton Cyclists' Association, which had chosen the Newton Hotel along with Frank Tyson's restaurant, as "the official hotels for bicyclists" for an upcoming event.Throughout this time, the proprietors of the hotel frequently changed. In 1902, Davis & Evans were proprietors and in 1905 W.C. Simmons took their place. By 1911, successful Newton hotelier J.W. Murphy was managing the business.The Fire Marshal reported in November 1911 that several of the larger buildings in Newton including the Newton hotel, Duff & Son Furniture Co and the Opera house were adequately equipped with fire escapes.Several other business were located on the first floor of the building including Lee & McDaniel New & 2nd Hand Furniture, and the Home Furnishing Store.The Newton Hotel Building, a landmark for 84 years, was razed in 1972.by Kristine Schmucker, Curator, Harvey County Historical Museum & Archive, published May 7, 2020, Voices of Harvey County

91

217-223 N Main

217-219 N MainToday, guests can enjoy a wonderful German buffet at the Breadbasket restaurant. Throughout history, several buildings and businesses have called this address home. In 1880, J.W. Lyon built a small house where he lived until he sold the property to J.G. Kauffman in 1884-85. A tailor's shop was located at this address in 1886 and by the late 1880s or early 1890s, a barber was leasing the building for his shop. Charles A. Bachmann converted the building into a tin shop. In 1912, his twenty-four year old son, Charles F. Barkmann built a bakery behind the tin shop. In 1924, after the death of Charles, Sr, the younger Barkman moved the building that had been used as a home, a tailor's shop, barbershop and tin shop to the back of the lot so that his bakery could be seen from Main street.The building standing today was built in the late 1930s-1940s and is home to Peterson's Funeral Home.221 N Main In 1885, J. G. Kauffman opened the Newton Packing Co. By 1896 it had been converted into a second hand and stove store. The building was vacant from 1897-1901 when it was torn down and a new smaller building was built.223 N MainNo longer standing. The building at 223 N Main, built in 1885-86, was originally a church . By 1901, the building had been converted to a glove factory and in 1915 there was a barber shop.(Kristine Schmucker)

92

213 - 215 N Main - Newton Air Dome

The Newton Air Dome was located at 213 & 215 N Main. The Newton Air Dome was advertised as having a seating capacity of 1000 in 1909, and "play(ed) Nothing But First-class Attractions." Built in approximately 1909, also known as the "Peoples Summer Theater" the open air structure covered both 213 & 215 N Main. By 1926, the Newton Air Dome had closed.(Kristine Schmucker)

93

Military Park

In 1875, two city parks were established one in Block 24, N Poplar & 7th, and in Block 30, Broadway & Oak. The city council contracted with the Newton Town Co. to assume care of the parks for five years. When the five years were up, the Newton Town Co, would deed the ground to the city with the provision that "the property should be perpetually maintained as public parks." (Newton Kansan 50th Anniversary Ed., 22 August 1922)First known as East Park, and then Military Plaza, the Commercial Club formally named the park, Military Park in 1898.About the photo: Thirty-seven boys pose on and around the cannon in Military Park, Newton, KS, in 1907.(Kristine Schmucker)

94

1880 Engine in Military Park

Moved to this site in 1955.Steam Locomotive Santa Fe 1880Prairie (2-6-2) TypeBuilt: Baldwin Locomotive Works, Philadelphia, PA, August 1907Cost: $24,500,000Miles Run: 1,022,667Used in freight service: Missouri-Eastern-Southern Kansas Middle DivisionsConverted to Oil: September 11, 1941Out of Service: May 2, 1953Placed in Military Park: November 18, 1955Dedicated to City of Newton: August 21, 1956

95

Themian Park

In 1875, two city parks were established one in Block 24, N Poplar & 7th, and in Block 30, Broadway & Oak. The city council contracted with the Newton Town Co. to assume care of the parks for five years. When the five years were up, the Newton Town Co, would deed the ground to the city with the provision that "the property should be perpetually maintained as public parks." (Newton Kansan 50th Anniversary Ed., 22 August 1922)Initially known as West Park, the park was renamed Themian Park in 1899 by the Themian Club. The Themian Club, established in 1894, was the first woman's club established in Newton. Throughout the years they promoted projects of public interest and welfare including the Public Library, the Music Talent Audition to support young musicians, and the Penny Art Fund. Themian Park is one of their lasting contributions to the Newton community. The Themian Club took their name from the Greek divine goddess of Justice, Themis.About the photo: The May Pole, Themian Park, 1930 May Fete.(Kristine Schmucker)

96

N Poplar and 100 Block West 4th

Many minority businesses were located in the 100 Block of W 4th including barber shops, pool parlors and restaurants. In 1968, these buildings were torn down under urban renewal that swept through the state destroying places where the Black community gathered and did business. Photo 1: Businesses listed in 1968 include 112 - Rickman's Recreation, 114 - Lola's Cafe, 116 - Ray's Place (restaurant) and 118 - Twilight Inn.Photo 2: Construction on N Poplar between 4th & 5th Street.Photo 3: New Newton Post Office, 1964Photo 4: Newton Re Center, 1970s.

97

Newton Roundhouse

When the railroad laid tracks through Newton in the early 1870s, one of the many necessities that followed was a locomotive roundhouse. The first was built in 1871 but it burned in 1880. It was rebuilt in 1888 with nine stalls. Four more stalls were added in 1891. Santa Fe division headquarters had moved to Nickerson in August 1879, In 1897, through tireless efforts of city leaders, the Santa Fe returned and moved the Nickerson Roundhouse to Newton. The native stone roundhouse was dismantled stone by stone, loaded into coal cars and rebuilt as an addition to he Newton roundhouse. This brought the total count to 32 stalls. In 1907, nine more stalls were added. It served the railroad into the 1950s when at 12:01 am on January 1, 1955, it was officially closed and later razed. Today, only the turntable remains.Photo 1: View looking northeast in the roundhouse area shortly after completing the move from Nickerson to Newton in 1898.Photo 2: View of Roundhouse, 1950s.(Billie Wilson)