July 3, 1902

COUNTY HISTORY

  Fifty years have wrought a great change in our county, as will be seen by comparing the records of that time with the present.
  This section of Calhoun is now thickly populated, but it will occupy only a short space in your colums [sic] to give a short sketch of all the men who lived there that participated in the organization of the county.
  First we will mention W. P. Cooke, who was born in Orange county Va. Jan. 4, 1810 and lived there until he was 9 years of age, then moved to Christian county KY, and remained there till he was sixteen.  From Ky. he came to Green county Ala., where he married and in 1836 came to Miss. and settled where Slate Springs now stands.  He helped to organize the county and attended the first court, which was held at Oldtown.  He spent the remained of his life here and died July 1898 at his son -in-law Joseph Fox's home at Slate Springs.  Several of his descendants still live here.
  Joseph Fox was also present at the organization and first court.  He lived four years at Pittsboro before the civil war, thence he moved to Slate Springs where he remained till the day of his death, Dec. 13, 1899.  His wife resides here.
  E. Flowers came here in 1836 and settled where Sabougla now stands.  He took a prominent part in the early history of the county.  The only ones of his immediate family here now are Mrs. Amelia Davis and her children who still own his old home.
  Another pioneer was David Denton who lived on Sabougla creek.  His son, Jas. (?) Denton now lives at the old homestead and quite a number of grandchildren reside near.  His only daughter, Martha, wife of Jas. Cooke, who also helped in the organization, lives here with her descendants.  A---.  Sabougla, Miss., June 23rd.

 August 7, 1902

Democratic Precinct Poll Managers for 20 August 1902 for 4th Congressional District.

`
Railroad Meeting 
A rumor to the effect that a company proposed to build a railroad from Okolona via Houston and to the east line of Calhoun in the near future caused a considerable stir and interest throughout the county and prompted by a desire to inquire into the matter, a mass meeting of the citizens was held in the court house last Monday.  Many people from different portions of the county were present.  Dr. S. H. Lawrence was called to the chair and Capt. T. W. Young addressed the meeting and read letters containing propositions for the old road bed east and west.  He was listened too attentively and after letters from Mr. J. W. Buchanan to him and Dr. Lawrence, had been read Captain Young introduced a resolution which was debated pro and con by Hon's J. M. Byars, J. L. Cobb, J. F. Smith, J. J. Adams and several others.  (This resolution was carried off by Capt. Young, hence we can't publish.)

It appears from the interest taken by our people that all are anxious for a railroad through the county along the old survey, but are not willing for the charter to be signed away to any company until they agree to build at least eight or ten miles into the county, which will eventually it is thought assure a road all the way through.  Any enterprise looking to the construction of a road through the county will be hailed with pleasure by Calhoun citizens and aid and encouragement given it, but the people do not wish to be tricked again, they are on the alert.  The meeting was harmonious and adjourned subject to call of chairman.

Snake Story

Editor Monitor:

I noticed some time since that The Monitor was wanting [sic] a snake story.  I will give you one that is facts.

Between 1845 and 1850, my father moved to the place now known as the Bentley old place on Buck Creek in the southeast corner of Calhoun county.  At this date stock did not have to be fed either winter or summer as the switch cane and the grass grew all over the hills and valley waist high all that one had to do was to build a cow lot and pen the milch cows at night and turn the calves out to graze until morning.  My father had his lot built.  In this lot near the center there was a large old decayed stump.  As soon as the cows were penned up or soon after dark the cows would break out, something they had never done before was to throw fence.

So he had the fence built so strong that it held them, still they would make a powerful effort to get out.  In the early spring myself and the milk maid went down one morning to milk and in passing by this old stump we noticed the head of a large rattlesnake sticking out of a hole in the stump, we decided that was the snake hole so we did not molest him but went back to the house and reported the same.

My father decided that this was the cause of the cows breaking out, so he with others went down to investigate the matter.  When he got there the snake’s head had disappeared, still he found the old stump very dry deep in the ground so he applied fire at once.

In a few minutes there had crawled out of this stump 14 large rattlesnakes ranging from five to six feet in length, and from the stench while this stump was burning there must have been as many more burned in the stump as came out.

After this we had no trouble in keeping the cows penned, we supposed that the scent of this den of snakes was the cause of them breaking out.  There is one other living witness to this story.  Come next.  C. G. Bentley.   Bentley, Miss.,    July 24 1902

August 14, 1902

…
The railroad news grows more cherry [sic] and rosy, there may be one, two or three roads through Calhoun shortly, then again there “mayn’t”.

Mr. J. W. Cruthirds of Seymore, Texas sends us $2 and says keep the Monitor coming. This makes $3.10 that he has paid us on subscription. Many thanks

They say that Dr. Creekmore is building a new depot for the new Railroad. J. C. Clements J. J. Ellard, and Joe Clark are the architects doing the work.

Esqr. R. H. Cruthirds held court here last Monday. About the only objection we can have to these little courts is that we are a standing juryman for every court day.

Notice the change in the law card of Ford & Haman in this issue.  Judge A. T. Roane of Grenada is now associated with the firm in Circuit court matters.

Our friends Mr. Billie Alexander can build a house right and do it as quick as the next one.  He has about completed Dr. Webb’s house and wants another job.

The Free Will Baptist Church at Gauley church are carrying on a protracted meeting this week.  Elders G. W. Hitchcock, Joseph Terry and White are conducting a [at] the meetings

The board was in session six days last week and Monday of this week.  The time was spent principally in “equalizing taxes” as the short proceedings in another column indicate.

Good cheer is depicted in the faces of most of our farmer friends when they appear in town.  Crops were seldom better than at present, taking the county over and were never better than now in many portions of the county.

It being rumored that the clerk of the pension board was at work in the court house in Pittsboro on matters pertaining to pensions, a Monitor Reporter was sent to interview this functionary.  The reporter found him busily engaged addressing envelopes to various applicants while smoking his pipe. He is a rather pleasant old gentleman some 60 years of age and was not averse to being interviewed; so the staff correspondent broke the ice as  follows:

Say Mister, How much do you get for this work?
Answer – Narry a red.
Question – Do you like the business?
Ans. – Just as well be at this as anything else.
Q. – How many pensioners are there on the roll in this county?
A. – Oh, about 127 of all classes.
Q. – What do you mean by all classes?
A. – Well, the first class get $100 a year, the 2nd class $50 and the third class is women and they get the same as the fourth class that are men.
Q. – How much will the third and fourth class get this fall?
A. – Goodness knows. Don’t ask me.
Q. – Are there many applications coming in under the new law?
A. – Yes sirree.  There is already about 30 applications to be passed on by the new pension board on the 1st Monday in September next, and I guess there will be as many more before the board meets.
Q.- So you think there will be 175 or 185 pensioners in this county?
A. – I didn’t say that and I don’t think they will all get it.  My pipe’s gone out.
Q. – Do you think the new law any better than the old?
A.- Oh, I don’t know. Where’s my specks, I must go to work.
One more question – What do you think of this plan they are getting up to irrigate the great desert of Sahara and make it a fine Delta, rich bottom land of the whole thing.
A. – You git out, I’m busy now.
And the interview was at an end.

Slate Springs
Mr. and Mrs. H. S. Weeks visited at the home of Mr. T. B. Odom of Bias Sat. and Sun.

Quite a large crowd were present at the picnic near the Walton Springs and able and instructive speeches were delivered by Messrs. T. L. Lamb, B. F. Starnes, A. K. Windham and “Jim Tuck It.”  There was also plenty of music, lemonade and a bountiful supply of pretty girls, all of which contributed to the magnitude of the occasion. Within our knowledge there was not a single misbehaved person upon the ground. This speaks well for the honesty and uprightness of Calhoun’s people.  In short it may be proclaimed a grand success.  Signed: Napolean

[May 2006: I called Bessie Kate Weeks of Sabougla to see if she knew the location of Walton Springs since this referred to her g-grandfather’s place. She said it was somewhere between where Roy Weeks at Slate Springs now lives, going toward the Old Windham Place and Bethel Church.]

Ellzey:
On Friday before the 5th Sunday in August there will be a public dinner at this place and a concert at night for the purpose of getting up money to repair the Baptist church and ceil [sic] the Methodist church.  The dinner will be free, but a small admission fee will be required to the concert and all the proceeds of the ice cream and lemonade stands will be appropriated to the churches for purpose above mentioned.  Mr. G. W. Dowdy with his string band will be here and of course will have a fine time, and we hope everybody will come and help us in this laudable undertaking.

Rev. J. P. Pilkinton preached here Sunday as before stated on the doctrine of final preservation and eternal happiness of the saints.  The two sermons were good and a large crowd to hear him.

Mr. R. L. Blue who is very sick at our last writings is improving.

Mr. Tobe Inmon and son Bob Lee and Mr. Jasper Rish and wife and Mrs. Anguish Winter from south of the river was among friends here Sunday.

A crowd of young ladies and gents called around Saturday night and gave Old Rusty a good serenading.  The fact is the music was so fine we did not get the benefit of anything else, and when we got out of the bed just scarcely awake we gave our head a very heavy jolt against the door facing and didn’t ?? any [copy ended]

August 28, 1902

The Board of Pensions Commissioners to wit: Hon. R. N. Provine, A. A. Griffin, E. Parker, G. W. Riley and M. D. L. Howell, will meet next Monday to take up the onerous task of passing on the pension applications.  These men have our sympathy, yet we know that they are men who will dare to do right, they will follow the law without respect to persons or criticisms.  The task before them is great and the renumeration so far as the question of dollars and cents are concerned, not worth mentioning.
 

September 3, 1902

Following is a list of Pensioners granted for the year 1902 by the Board of Examiners:

 

 

 

Mr. J. F. Shepherd informs us that George Prescott, a good quiet young man, who lived near old Concord church, died suddenly last Sunday eve from congestion.  [September 3, 1902]
`
  ...and gentlemen alike, and if properly done will not be long lived in converting our old "Free State' into the gleaning garden spot of the world.
  Mr. Earl McCord left last week for Arkansas where he will look out a favorable location for his saw mill.
  Now Mr. Editor, for fear we will over tax your patience we will refrain from further composition till next week.  Signed: NAPOLEON
 

The county commissioners of election for Calhoun are R. W. Clark, J. A. Gregg and M. C. Lee.  They are to meet the first Monday in October before the congressional election and begin the revision of the poll books. [September 3, 1902]

Property for Sale
I desire to sell my Hotel in Pittsboro, consisting of 8 rooms, besides good rooms for drivers, good barn, good water, etc. I get all the traveling trade. Good reasons for wanting to sell.
I have also for sale or rent 160 acres of land four miles north of Pittsboro; 60 acres in cultivation, 50 acres in pasture, two houses on place, plenty of water. Also two 4 year old mules.  Apply to G. W. Tindall, Pittsboro, Miss.

JURY LIST For Sept. Term

 

Ellzey
  The concert last Friday night was excellent with some few exceptions.  It turned out to be a free exhibition; but, notwithstanding, there was about sixty dollars given in to the churches.  Several people from different parts were present, among whom were G. W. Dowdy with his string band, and they gave good music.
  Mr. W. A. Cook started to Memphis last Sunday to buy his fall stock of goods.  Mr. B. M. Ellzey carried him as far as Houston in his buggy.
  Rev. Craig delivered three good sermons Saturday night, Sunday and Sunday night to large attentive congregations.
  Mr. J. E. Whitehorn went to Okolona last Friday to take his brother, W. E. Whitehorn on his way home in Tennessee.
  It was announced last Sunday that Elder S. E. Wallace would preach at Friendship church on first Sunday and Saturday before at [sic] eleven o'clock each day.  Come and hear him.
  Mr. Tom Craig of Holliday was among friends here last Sunday.
  Mr. Lon Boyd returned last Saturday from his home in Tennessee, where he has been visiting for the past two months.  Mr. Boyd is one of the stave hewers and will resume his labors in the timber this week.
  Rev. J. N. Flynn has gone with his family down near Pine Valley where he will hold a series of meetings before he returns home.  Bro. Flynn will raise em up down there if they will dance to the music.
  The cotton crop is not as good here as the prospects bid fair for in the early summer, but we hope there will be a price on the short crop to meet the demands of the farmers as though he had made plenty.
  There will be a meeting of the stockholders and patrons of the school at this place next Saturday.  Cone one, come all, as there are some repairs needing done.
  Senator Young went to the Railroad meeting last week at Okolona.  He says everything is in fine shape for the road and that the surveyors will be in Houston next Wednesday, Sept. 3rd, when he will meet them at Houston to conduct them to Ellzey...

Miscellaneous items:
  Miss Clyde Beadles, accompanied by Mr. Eugene Boland, left for Pittsboro Saturday to visit friends.  Aug. 31st  BARKIS

Sept 3, 1902

A Snake Commits Suicide

One can scarcely glance at a newspaper without his eyes falling upon the glaring headlines of some suicidal report.  There are two classes, the crazy man or woman and he who finds his misdeeds coming home to him, who seek this mode of exit from this world.  But did you ever know a snake to commit suicide?  What do you suppose could ever induce an ophidian kingdom to cut short his special privilege to bruise the heel of man by taking his own life?  What is that you say?  “Snakes do not commit suicide.”  Well just listen while I tell you an “ower [sic] true tale” of one snake that I wot [sic] of ending his life by his own hand, by the length of his body I mean, and then answer me if it was not a case of suicide just as much so as is that of his brother of the biped species called man.

Within the border lines of Calhoun county, there lives a man, a ‘well to do” citizen, who, though nothing of a snake charmer, gives free range to all chicken and king snakes, and woe unto him who dares to kill one of these cherished mousers.  I have known this man to take these doubtful cats into his bosom as tenderly as you and I would any other pet and many of these old fellows have lived to a ripe old age in this man’s fodder loft and feasted upon rats, mice, chickens and eggs until they were of such an enormous size that one of them in his coil would have filled a half bushel measure, I do believe.  Well, some few years ago, there was an old fellow living on this man’s premises, that was the especial care of this farmer and no one dared lay a harmful touch upon this snake.

But one morning in the early dawn some one, in going to feed the stock found this much cared for pet hanging out through a crack in the fodder loft - cold and stark in death.  In dire consternation was rendered the verdict of suicide and it is supposed that remorse simon pure, actuated the fearful deed, for doubtless he had been stealing chickens and eggs, as was proven by the egg lodged within his gullet and which same egg held him securely fastened by the head as his body slipped and fell full length through a broad crack in the fodder loft thereby causing death and placing upon record a snake suicide.  Signed: Dreamer

Slate Springs
During the past week we have had local showers of rain that have been of much benefit to potato and turnip crops.
Cotton picking and sorghum making engages our farmers at present.
Our fifth Sunday meeting was well attended, almost all the churches in the surrounding country were represented.  The topics were intelligently discussed and we trust light gained on some subjects.  A series of meetings will continue through this week.  Christians of all denominations are apparently interested; we are prying for and anticipating glorious results.
The general health of the country is not so good as in the past.  Typhoid fever has claimed another victim in the person of Mr. Joe Shaw, whose home is at Bias, Miss.  We are very sad to record his death.  He was a prosperous citizen, a financial success, but the dread reaper claimed him in the prime of life.  Hhe leaves in sad bereavement a devoted wife and an affectionate family. We tender them our warmest sympathy and commend them to him wo has promised to be a "husband to the widow and a father to the orphan."
Mrs. Arthur Martin is slowing recovering from her recent illness.  Her father and sister of Big Creek, paid her a visit yesterday.
Messrs Dee Davis and Jim Sam Spencer have returned from Memphis, whre they spent several days buying goods.
Mr. Tom Ligon, who lives near Denton, Miss. has returned from a recent visit to Oklahoma; but we have learned that his impressions were not favorable enough to induce him to move.  He is one of our most successful farmers, and we would be sorry to have him go away.
[excerpts -  Signed: Nan Tuckett]

Sept. 11, 1902

VALEDICTORY

This is to say to our friends that we have sold The News outfit, fixtures and good will to “The Monitor.” The little Calhoun News has for near a year and a half been gliding over the eddies and ripples of newspaperdom with about as much ease as is given any county paper and it does not relinquish efforts from lack of support; but the editor wishing to give time to something ? of newspaper lines, gives cause for its non-appearance. However, there is not sufficient support to sustain two papers here and both do well. We loathe somewhat to sever our connection with The News and do it reluctantly, for we have many friends, who, with not only words of cheers, have responded substantially to the paper’s need. To all of those friends and also to those who have so ardently supported us, we say here’s our hand for past favors. Arrangements will be made, as far as possible with “The Monitor” to fill out our unexpired subscriptions at the dollar rate, and if arrangements cannot be made satisfactorily, the money will be refunded.  Announcements will be made later as to this. Now, we have many on our books who have never paid us anything. Now, friends, don’t think we are going to bore you for the few mites you owe us on subscriptions; no, that’s not our style. We know if you will only think for a few minutes of the rounds …by a small weekly to… your home, tell you … and give you the … news, you will quickly respond with the balance you owe us.  We will say our books will be in the hands of our father, J. W. Martin, who will receipt you for any remittance; or they can be found at ‘The Monitor” office where we will have a man to write you a receipt for any amount due.
Now, do not class us as a repudiator. In our natal issue we said the side of right and justice would be our closest ally, tho’ we have no apologies to make, “We have done our best; let him find fault who may.” Now, to our friends, we bid an adieu and say your kindnesses remain as favors past but not forgotten.  Very Truly, G. L. Martin

The jury in the Whit Owen case at Holly Springs, found guilty in the negro case and he was sentenced to life imprisonment in the pen, his trial for complicity in the killing of the Montgomery’s was continued.

Corn is being delivered here at 50 cts per bushel.
Mrs. Corrie Revis is the proud mother of a fine girl.

Hardly room for our honor roll in this issue. Look for it next week.
Mr. Foulks of Buena Vista is visiting her daughter, Mrs. C. A. Beasley of Pittsboro.

Several new students entered school here this week. The enrollment is now at 90.
Miss Etna Hightower of Reid visited friends at Pittsboro Monday returning home Tuesday.

We were mistaken in the sex when speaking of a new baby at Rev. J. H. Rogers. It’s a girl.
Watermelons are still coming in by the wagon load. They are on every corner and nearly every store.

The circuit court next week will be light. There are about eighteen cases on the criminal docket and less on the civil.

The recent showers have brought out the potato crop and the cane. So ‘taters’ and “lasses’ will be cheap this winter.

Ho, for Pittsboro, ye horse swappers, the blind, the deaf and the lame, horse and mules will be here and you can swap.

There are few visitors to town this week, an indication that our farmers are engaged in saving hay and gathering in the fleecy staple.

Mr. Clarence Crutchfield will help The Monitor for a week or more. Clarence is a good boy and has many friends about the borough.

Mrs. J. S. Malone’s house two and one-half miles south of town was burned down yesterday. We have not learned the origin of the fire.

FOR Sale: 160 acres of land, crop on same, good water, buildings etc. 9 miles southeast of Pittsboro, cheap. Apply to W. C. Mitchell, Hollis, Miss.

Mr. G. L. Martin left yesterday for Clinton where he goes to enter Mississippi College for the next session. We wish him success in his undertaking.

Mrs. Alice Murphree, nee Pilgreen, has returned with her children to Calhoun from Red Oak I. T., She will live near Big Creek, though one of her children is in Pittsboro school.

Mr. Murray Countiss formerly of Ellard, passed away from the sufferings and turmoils of earth last Friday. After the shot that deprived him of his leg, he has been one of continual suffering. Peace unto him evermore.

As the “News” at time of sale had about $14 paid in advance by its subscribers, perhaps some arrangements to refund this amount, if so desired by these creditors, may be made by us if not Mr. Martin as he states, will pay it back.

Taxes this year will be 16 mills state and county, two and a half for indebtedness, seven and a half for county and six mills for state 'bout the same as last year.  If Calhoun had a few factories and railroads to give taxpayers a lift ‘twould not be altogether as burdensome as it is.

The justice courts of Pittsboro are not small affairs these days. Many jurors and witnesses are required to lay aside their own affairs and repair to the court house to assist the Justices in determining what is right between neighbors. This is to be regretted. Good men frequently grown stubborn and cavil over small matters, when if they would lay aside feelings, come together and talk the matter calmly with a determination to be fair and honest with each other, much trouble would be averted.  “Oh, for the gift that God would give us. To see ourselves as others see us.”

 

Slate Springs
... Rev. A. C. Ball was very zealous in his work. Rev. A. B. Hicks preached one grand sermon during the week.

Our friend and neighbor, Mr. J. G. Bennett has been quite sick of fever for several days, but we are glad to state that his condition is much improved.

Miss Donie Gregg is still very sick of fever.

Preparations being made for the opening of school next Monday, Sept. 15. We trust out people will realize the great necessity of giving their children the very best opportunities possible in this line. It is worth a very great sacrifice on the parents to do this. Statistics show our state far in arrears in education. If we want our boys and girls to be second to none in this respect we must use the means necessary to accomplish our purpose. We may rest assured that we will reap what we sow from this source, as truly as from a spiritual one.

Mr. and Mrs. Ed Mitchell will this week take charge of the dormitory preparatory to entertaining pupils who wish to enter school here. We cordially invite all who wish  to come, and  assure them they will find a comfortable and convenient home.

Some of our people are still very anxious to go west, and are offering their property at remarkably low prices. Parties wishing to locate near a school in a quiet little town, where there are many facilities for religious and literary culture, will do well to secure some of these homes.   Signed: Nan Tuckett

*** [left edge of column is missing- heading not copied]
…
From what we can gather, taking the 75 counties of the state, there is little room for complaint concerning this crop in Miss, which is now about ready for harvesting. In Calhoun, we have little cause for grumbling, true in the southwestern part of the county crops were considerably injured in a few places by drought, but there are farmers even in this section of the county that will make an abundance of corn.

So here will be no scarcity of this article in our county another year and our people should appreciate their surroundings and advantages. Ever, since this writer can remember, was there a better (?t) here than there is this (?) especially beech, grapes, muscadines, persimmons and nuts are every where to be seen. Times are now propitious for any industrious young man, who is ambitious to own a little home, or a big one as to that, to make the start. Now while he can purchase land here at a dollar, to two and a half dollars per acre, that will make easily from 20 to 50 bushes of corn on the same. This land will, ere long, be worth from ten to twenty five dollars per acres, and you will not be able to do the work you might do now, were you able to pay the price that this soil will command a few years hence.

There is a bright future in store for the Free State, very little of her lands, comparatively speaking, are in cultivation and her resources have hardly been touched. Yea, the fact is, we don’t realize and appreciate the possibilities of our county. With far too many Calhoun people, the rainbow of promise is chased to other lands, where bright flowers are ready for gleaning. Now some of these restless ones soon find their mistake and pine for the dear sparkling springs, the wood and pine,” the fruit, the society, the health and the productive soil, that was their very own once, or easily within their grasp while in Calhoun.  True, you may rent lands in the west, if you do just as the landlord wishes you to do and pay as much for one years rent as lands would cost you here. But a poor man would have to be lucky indeed to succeed paying for him a place, where the land cost fifty dollars per acre, but should he succeed in paying this, some of the conveniences and advantages mentioned above would be lacking and he would hardly be more happy and contented there than here on his native (ther), and happiness is one of the objects to be sought after in life. While on this line, thought, we will state what we have long believed, that any young men who are being educated for teachers, clerks, bookkeepers, doctors, lawyers etc. would enjoy life more and succeed better on a (?).  Their education would do them no harm as tillers of the soil. The farmer is more happy because he is not (? udent) upon the public. (?He has) a little world of his own (/s) not crowded, while the … one and there is a “Divinity that shapes our ends rough, hew them as we may.” Well, to sum up our ideas in a few words, we will say that farm life is, we verily think more pleasant, healthful and independent than any other avocation followed by man and right here, even here, is a favored locality for one with out means to make a start, and boys, when you undertake to payout and improve a piece of Calhoun dirt, you might find some of these girls to be “A present help in time of need.”
 
 

There hangs in this office a dinner horn that was brought from Abbeville District S. C., more than 75 years ago. It belonged once to the father of old uncle Johnie Cooner and the deer hide thong, or strop that is fastened to it is as old as the horn itself. There is nothing remarkable about this relic except its age, which is well authenticated. Its tone is as solid and cheering now as when it summoned a barefoot boy named John Cooner to come to dinner from the sand hills of old Abbeville district.

Senator J. M. Byars brought to this office a sample of the Kieffer pears raised on his place. There are nine fully developed pears on one stem. They are on exhibition here, drop in and see them.  As this fruit seldom fails to make and as it is said to keep well through the fall and winter months, here is conclusive proof that ‘twill pay to raise other things in old Calhoun than cotton. Why not have a canning factory in our midst and utilize to advantages all the apples, peaches and pears raised in our county?  But even without railroads or factories, ‘twould pay our people to plant orchards and ship the fruit rather than stake all on cotton.

Ellzey
We sadly chronicle the death of little Grada, son of Mr. R. L. Crawford, who expired Sunday about 11 o’clock. This little fellow was taken last February with a dangerous attack of catarrh fever continuing for several months and had not entirely recovered when congestion seized him last Saturday, when earth claimed him in a very few hours. He was buried at Young’s Chapel last Saturday evening at 5 o’clock.

Mr. B. M. Ellzey took a trip south of the river last Sunday. We don’t know his errand.

Senator Young failed to meet the rail road surveyors last week at Houston. We don’t know the cause unless the road was of such little importance that the Senator was not considered in the matter. ...

(lines not copied)
... morning for Abbeville where the latter will resume his studies in the school at that place again.

Mr. J. E. Whitehorn says he and his stave crew found a tortoise one day last week with W. D. Parker’s name cut on its shell, which was cut in the year 1896 while hewing staves in the bottom at that time. Mr. Whitehorn wants to know if anyone can tell him how long a tortoise lives.

Dr. Dottery is very busy at present attending the scattering sickness throughout the community.  We fear sickness will increase as cool nights and warm days are coming on.

Mr. J. L. Furgerson ginned two bales of cotton last week; one for Mr. I. N. Vanlandingham and one for Mr. Bob Inmon.

Mr. Fernando Hightower and sister, Miss Etna, and Farris Stacy and sister, Miss Viola, attended preaching at this place late Sunday.  Signed: Old Rusty

Proceeding of Board of Supervisor's September Term

 
 

{Newspapers Missing: Next issue October 9, 1902}

November 27, 1902

Slate Springs
Nov. 24th brings us a gloomy rainy morning. Business is very quiet, merchants are yawning and wondering if there is anything in store for them today.

Services at Methodist church were poorly attended yesterday and last evening. One coming to our town would find us in a condition similar to that of ancient Israel when Hezekiah came to be ruler.  God speed the day when we shall nave a great spiritual awakening and our people shall return to a hearty service of the Lord.

Miss Lola McCord of whom we spoke in our last communication died: We regret very much that one whose life was so useful and whose influence was so gracious died so young. She was a devout Christian lady, cultured and refined, her influence in the home was tenderly affectionate and elevating.  We trust that her memory will be a source of inspiration to each member of her family by whom she was loved so tenderly.  Se was buried at Bethel cemetery Nov. 16, a large concourse of people attending the funeral services.

Mr. Jim McCord is now sick of typhoid fever, the family has moved to the dormitory in our town, hoping to escape further infection.

This week brings round the annual thanksgiving service which will not be observed with us until the next regular appointments for [not copied]

 
 Notice: All parties failing to pay their incorporation taxes during this week for the year 1902 will be put on the delinquent list to be made out next week. P. L. Dye, Marshal

Rev. B. P. Patterson of Mathiston and his mother, Mrs. T. M. Patterson of Gulfport, visited their kinsman, Mr. C. R. Young and other friends at Pittsboro last Friday and Saturday.  They lived here for many years and Mrs. Patterson’s friends were glad to greet her once again.

Mr. Andy Bounds says he converted himself to be a stock law man,” We had a debating society at Pine Ridge and everybody in the neighborhood was opposed to stock law, but we concluded to discuss the subject, so I and Oliver Crutchfield were put on the side to defend it.  Mr. Crutchfield kept getting on the other side in his speech and after being put right two or three times, he said: “Ah well, if I have to pull off the wrong string, I’ll jest et down.”

Obituary
Died at his home near Shady Point, I. T., Nov 4, 1902, J. H. Winter, age 63 years, 6 months and 17 days.  He was born in Ala. April 17, 1838, moved when quite young to Calhoun county, Miss., where he lived until 1893 and then came to the Indian Territory.  He leaves a wife and 9 children and a host of friends to mourn their loss. He professed religion about 35 years ago, but never attached himself to any church. He bore his long illness with great patience. He had cancer of the stomach, was sick 100 days and confined to his bed 72 days.  [rest of writing is spiritual]

Attention Everybody:
I will on Monday, the first day of December 1902 offer for sale at my residence to the highest bidder for cash all my horses and cattle, all my farming implements, my household and kitchen furniture, etc.  As I intend to go west soon, I would like for parties who are indebted to me for work to come forward and settle with me at once, otherwise their notes, accounts and judgments will be left in the hands of an officer.  Dr. W. F. Ellard

December 4, 1902

                Hon. Robt. N. Provine      [Newspaper photo too poor to reproduce]

Honorable R. N. Provine, whose picture appears above, was born at Coles Creek, Calhoun county, Miss., on the place where he now owns in 1840.  He was the eldest of a family of three boys and one girl, who were made orphans in part, by the death of a father when Robert was six years old.  His mother was one of those noble southern ladies whose paramount desire was to educate her children and train them to be honest, self reliant and useful, so when Robert was 12 years old, she managed to send him and the next eldest son John, to school at Paris, Tenn., there being poor facilities for education here then.  This was in 1852 and again in 1854, she had them (?) Tenn. to school.  When fourteen or fifteen years old, Robert began the management of the farm, under the direction of his mother, to whom, let it be said to his everlasting credit, he ever rendered true homage and deference.

 He was married at the early age of twenty years to Miss Nannie Goyen, also an orphan, her parents having died when she was very young.  Although quite poor, Robert and his young bride were healthy, energetic and ambitious, taking great pride in their work and striving above all things to educate their children as they grew up and to start them untrammeled on life’s journey. This was the object for which they toiled.  They raised a family of eight sons and one daughter, all of whom are doing well.  The eldest, Dr. J. W. Provine, spent four years in Germany at the famous Gottingen university, and is now Prof. of chemistry at Clinton college.

Capt. Provine on any and every occasion gives his wife full credit for advising and training the children, as also for what success financially he has attained in life.  He is a man of strong convictions and with the courage to maintain them, true as steel to his friends and generous to a fault.

He loves the old Confederate soldier for his patriotic devotion to duty at a trying time, and his hospitality toward these, knows no bounds.  Serving himself till the close of the war in the western army, under such leaders as Gen. Jos. E. Johnson, his record is unimpeachable.  He spent several months as a captive with other officers at Johnson’s island and lived on starvation rations.  When at last the ragged ‘rebs” were disbanded, penniless and disheartened, Bob wended his way to Coles Creek and set in to mend his broken fortunes, there he found a bright three year old son that he had never seen to greet him.  Robert’s patriotism, whether viewed from a local, state, or national standpoint, is as broad as the broadest. He has no trouble in telling what he knows, he is a good orator and is ever ready to vindicate and maintain the honor of his county, in whose future he places implicit faith.  He represented Calhoun in the legislature form 1882 to ’84.  By wise and judicious investments and by an indomitable energy he has accumulated considerable property at Coles Creek and is now one of the greatest taxpayers of the county.

Reminiscences by Votary:

Dear Monitor: --
Absence has somewhat delayed this scrawl.  By the way, Rambler gave us a pathetic story in your last issue, based upon actual fact, a thrilling romance blended with a deep significance of loyalty, patriotism and martyrdom, of a dual nature, one of love of country, one of love of husband.  The story carries me back to the days when joyous youth began.  Passion, enthusiasm, fanaticism and all the malignant political engendering of a half century, ripened for the scythe of destruction, devastation and sorrow.  How short sighted are the wisest sages of all ages and as the “Judge” says, “what fools we mortals be.”  Our hind sights are clear and open; our front sights are exceedingly dim, ah! obscure.  Some author has put forth the declaration that experience is the great teacher but the generations past have failed to versify this axiom, for

“The eye of the sage and the heart of the brave,
 Are hidden and lost in the depth of the grave”
 “We are the same that our fathers have been,
We drink the same streams, view the same sun.
And run the same course our fathers have run.”

Rambler, like the writer must in the “halcyon days of yore,” have been a denizen of “North of Scoona,” hence the compatibility and inspiration.  His theme – a hero and heroine of the lost cause, historic of the noble martyrs of beloved old Calhoun county of whom I promised to mention a few.

From 1855 to ’60, I frequently associated with four stalwart brothers, whose parents were pioneers to the northwestern portion of what is now Calhoun county from old Kentucky.  It was somewhere in the thirties that Duncan Reasons with his family pitched his tent near a large spring at the foot of the rocky hills overlooking Brushy creek and very near to where Dr. W. F. Ellard now resides.  They were of the Hardshell Baptist persuasion, which speaks for their honesty and they were all that the word implies.  The sons were respectively: James, Lafayette, Allen and William, each of whom grew into manhood and were educated in our state university.

When the tocsin of war sounded in 1861, Hon. Allen M. Reasons was a leading attorney at Pittsboro.  He raised a cavalry company and was attached to “Storks” Regt. He was captured at Ft. Donaldson and I think, carried to Dalton penitentiary Ill. From which prison he made his escape with the aid of some outside friends. He was shaved, bought him a nice suit of clothes and took the train, ostensibly as a quartermaster for the Union army and on his journey to his “Old Kentucky home,” talked to several Federal officers, among them a general, he made his way finally into the Confederate lines and rejoined his Co.  He was killed at Raymond Miss. in 1863.  Here he was ordered to take his company and check the advance of Sherman’s army and I have been told by those who were with him, that no knight ever shown a more princely bearing than he when he drew his sword and gave the men the order to follow him on, on and down that open broad lane he went, to victory or to death.  The enemy from ambush received this gallant band with a volley, which brought to the dusty road  ‘hors de combat,” as noble a son, as ever went froth from old Calhoun to battle for a lost cause.  Allen M. Reasons was a true type of southern manhood and Calhoun showed her appreciation of him by sending him to represent her in the legislature. Peace to his ashes.

As I have not time to speak fully of the four brothers in a short article, such as this, I will now refer to Wm. M. Reasons, the youngest.  At the outbreak of the war, he was located at McNutt, Sunflower county as an attorney at law, he volunteered as a private in the first company from Coffeeville and was with the 15th Miss. at the trying battles of Corinth, Fishing Creek and again at Shiloh, where he displayed the characteristics of leadership and inspired a company amid trying exigencies that won for him the captaincy of the Yalobusha rifles soon after, without opposition.  With this famous old regiment he served till he heard of the death of his brother, participating in every engagement.  But there was a bitter feeling between his Col. (Farrell) and himself that caused Capt. Reasons to leave his command between Jackson and Meridian – not as deserter, but rather seeking revenge for his brothers death under the Guerrilla mode of warfare, his composed nature seemed to have changed into a revengeful resolution suddenly, and with a few brave followers, he operated along the banks of the Mississippi capturing cattle, horses and occasionally a steamboat from the enemy.  His command was independent and was recognized by neither the Federal or Confederate authorities.  He was killed on an island in the Mississippi river that he and his few followers were trying to take.  This island was not far from Memphis and contained valuable supplies stored there by a commander of the Union army.

Lafayette Reasons tried the service also, but his health failed him, his physical nature was too frail for the hardships of camp life. He dropped dead from heart failure in his front yard one year after the war.  [Continued Next Week]

Dec 11, 1902

Reminiscences by Votary:

[Continued from Last Week]

James Reasons, the blacksmith and oldest brother, was a man of herculean strength, he weighed near 350 pounds and could handle with ease, a bar of railroad iron, this he often did, I am told, at Water Valley, prior to his death, which was during the yellow fever epidemic at that place.  His devotion to his friends there, caused him to remain and risk consequences, which resulted in martyrdom. He was one of the best conversationalists I ever listened to, was a good mathematician and generously inclined.

Mrs. Thomas J. Hogg, the only sister of the above mentioned brothers was a noble lady of queenly embellishments.  They have all departed long ago for another realm, leaving their “footprints on the sands of time” and the world is better through their lives.  No one was made worse by associating with them in their day.

There is a pleasure in recalling the earlier days of probation, and this scrawl would aid you in perpetuating reminiscences of the characters that would made Calhoun worthy, aye! one among the purest and best of counties.  In mind’s eye, I see the descendants of such people as the ones described (imperfectly) above, dotting many localities of this hemisphere and following all the vocations and professions of life, her percent in the front rank of genius, which no ridicule will check nor stigma cloud.

Well, I feel that I have not said half enough concerning those of whom I would write, but this addendum is to the generation now actively engaged in making history, may they prove to be useful and worth sons of worthy sires.

Supervisor's Proceedings, Dec. Term, 1902
Allowances

Orders
 

 

 

 
 

News of Local Interest
Treasurer J. A. Killingsworth has had his pension warrant cashed and the needy old confeds are now receiving their money.

We “R” looking for “U” to trade with us.  W. H. Bailey & Bros.

Much to our regret an interesting letter from Mr. D. A. Langston, formerly of Calhoun, but now of Dale, Oklahoma, is crowded out of this issue.

Mr. Sid Parker of near Coles Creek died Sunday last.  With his passing away Calhoun has lost one of her best and most deserving citizens.

I will pay 18 cents per dozen for all the eggs I can get.  W. J. Scrivner

Mrs. Jennie Dye returned to Pittsboro Wednesday after a few weeks visit to relatives at Glendora.  She was accompanied from Coffeeville by Mr. Dennis Murphree.

Mr. J. T. Perry, one of our substantial merchants, is building himself a residence on his home place a few miles west of this, and will move his family thither soon.

Mr. J. A. Tornwall moved this week into the Dr. Lawrence residence and Mr. E. R. Shearer's family moved into the house vacated by Mr. Tornwall.

For plain and fancy lamps, ladies' capes, children's suits, and all sorts of Christmas things, just call around and see Frank Ross.

While Mr. Baddley's graphophone was thundering away in the courthouse last Monday, a citizen came rushing across the square with a determination to find out "what lawyer that is puffing so big."

Mr. H. M. Trussell of Sabougla is in feeble heatlh. He was once supervisor from his district and is a good and useful citizen. That he may be restored to health is our prayer.

We'll make your dollars expansive.  All we ask is a chance to prove every assertions we make.  W. H. Bailey & Bro.

Will not some good friend from Banner also from Sarepta send us items?  There are plenty of good men and women about each place, that could write-up the happenings each week and send them in.

Marriage license were issued by clerk Ramsey for Mr. Samuel Deloach, mayor of Maben, Miss. and Miss Zilla Johnson of Bentley yesterday.  We wish these friends of Auld lang sine joy and much happiness.

Mr. Henry Dulaney's sons are recovering rapidly now after hovering between life and death for many weeks with typhoid fever. We congratulate them and rejoice with the parents.

Owing to scarcity of room W. H. Bailey & Bros. are quitting the Furniture business and are closing out a complete line at cost.

Mr. E. C. Baddley came up the first of this week from Water Valley. He contemplates making great improvements about the mineral springs some time in the near future. He is also about buying more real estate in Calhoun.

Mr. J. P. Mccomic died last Saturday evening about 7 o'clock. He had been quite feeble for several weeks. He was buried at Mt. Moriah graveyard Sunday eve.  Mr. McComic was 79 years old and had held every position of trust in the county.

Ellzey
Supt. C. A. Beasley visited our school here last week and found Prof. Powell and wife with the school in good order and a fine average attendance for the first month. But as to Mr. Beasley, we can't say there was anything wrong.  At any rate he took a seat and fell backwards, bench and all, his head striking the floor first.  He stayed all night and said he felt better next morning.

There were several drummers in town this week. They did not exhibit their samples and therefore didn't sell any goods. They seemed to have had too much tea, but they didn't get it at the hotel.

We are sad to note the death of Mr. Hardie Funderburk's little daughter on last Tuesday night.  She was eleven years of age and diminutive, but very smart.  She called her parents and brothers and sisters to her bedside and bade them goodbye and said she was going to Jesus.

Miss Husie Gore is staying with Miss Ethel Roberts at Dr. Dottery's this week, while Mrs. Dottery attends the annual conference at Tupelo.

The Rev. J. N. Flynn attended conference this week. He says he don't know who he will preach for next year.

Mr. Zack Harper of Okolona who has of late been figuring sharply in real estate in this community has countermanded his instructions to his agent here, Mr. B. M. Ellzey and says he don't want any more land.  This speak high for the railroad but vice versa to its coming the old survey.  If you want a R. R. keep on talking about it, but the rule hasn't worked out in this instance.  But is is alright anyway; we can get goods any where in Calhoun county cheaper than we can at a railroad.

Messr. B. Davis and J. H. Greenslade have returned from the Delta.  Signed: Old Rusty

Big Creek
Mr. Lee Bates was a pleasant caller in our town Sunday.
Mr. Jack Smith visited Pittsboro Saturday.
Mr. T. L. Hudson spent several days in Coles Creek last week.
M. M. M. Boland spent last Wednesday in Pittsboro.
Mr. Alexander and son of Sabougla passed through Sunday enroute to Pittsboro.
Mr. Wm. Boland of Slate Springs visited relatives here Wednesday.
The Angel of Death visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Man Boland last Friday and bore away the spirit of their little daughter. The bereaved family have our heartfelt sympathy.
Rev. Killingsworth passed through our town Monday on the way to Shiloh to bury the remains of Mr. Sid Parker who died Sunday.
Mr. Will Moore went to Sarepta Tuesday to meet Miss Ether Parker, who was called home from school at Tula to be with her father during his last illness.
Our school is progressing nicely, and before the bad weather begins the patrons on east Main street should repair the plank walk so the children will not be in danger of falling into the water.  This is really necessary to preserve the health of the children.  Signed: Hal

Busyton
Well as our last items missed the waste basket we will come again with another bunch of news.
A lot of our farmers from Busyton went to Water Valley last week to sell cotton returning home during that bad weather and reported cotton a dull price.
Mr. John T. McComic of Pittsboro died Saturday night and was buried at Mt. Moriah Sunday.  He leaves a host of friends and relatives to mourn his loss.
Mr. R. L. Henay and family of Robb were visiting their daughter, Mrs. John Adams, Friday and Saturday.
Miss Tyna Wagner who is teaching the Murphree school visited home Saturday morning returning Sunday.
Rev. J. L. Roane filled his regular [copy ends]
 

A pension check for something over four thousand dollars is expected by the Chancery clerk this week, but it will probably have to go to some bank to be cashed when it arrives, which may delay the payments several days.  Pensioners of the third class will get $28.65 each.

Mr. J. P. Mathis of Bentley says that Teddy Roosevelt has been invited to join the boys of his neighborhood in a grand rally and rabbit hunt thereabout on Xmas day.  It won’t be necessary to have the game “tied” and they expect lots of fun.

Grenada District , J. W. Bell, P. E. Pittsboro Circuit, J. H. Rogers, Slate Springs, A. A. Martin, Ellzey Circuit, J. N. Flynn, Paris Circuit, R. T. Nolen. The church at Big Creek was added to Slate Springs charge. Antioch church to Ellzey circuit and Ellzey was added to Pittsboro circuit.

Mr. Jas. McCord of near Slate Springs died last Wednesday from typhoid fever.  He is the fourth one of this family to die recently from this dread disease.  They are sons and daughters of John T. McCord who died several years ago. The widow and mother still survives.  May a kind providence strengthen and comfort her in her bereavements.

We highly appreciate a private letter from our friend, Mr. John L. Cobb.  He endorses our article of the 4th inst. on “Taxes and Taxation” and adds: “Of the 40 people that I paid taxes for last week, many of them are without homes of their own, without meat, and ‘tis hard for [not copied]

Reid
Well, I guess all think that Reid is a place of the past, as we have not been able to be represented in some time. Well, Mr. Editor, if you will permit will try to give you a few notes each week….
Mr. I. D. Stacy is serving … the juror at Oxford this week.
Messrs. J. J. Burt and J. Jones have exchanges places and each will soon move to the new homes.
Miss Viola Stacy has been spending the week with friends at Ellzey.
Mr. Rufe Howell of Air Mount has finished work on … Enochs’ house and has returned to his home.
Several moved into our neighborhood recently, among whom we mention Messrs. Seales, Berry, and Ruth.
Our school is moving along nicely, seventy eight enrolled during the first month.
Messrs. Kay Hardin and Chas. Johnson left last week for …Indian Territory. We hate to lose such noble young men… Though hope they will be pleased with their new home.
Mr. R. P. Howell, one of … merchants and Miss Donie Countiss were happily married last Sunday at 8:30 p.m. at the home of Mr. J. H. Hardin. We wish for them a long and happy life.  Signed: JIP    

December 18, 1902 

“Rambler”   [ Photo in Newspaper copy very poor, did not reproduce well]

The picture above presented is that of Col. M. D. L. Stephens of Water Valley, Miss., a gentleman who has led an eventful life, as a physician, civilian and soldier, through some stormy periods.  For many years in antebellum days, he practiced his profession in Calhoun county, riding through the then almost trackless wilds and mingling with the old pioneers and quaint characters of the long ago.  Dr. Stephens was a local celebrity here then, the one man to be consulted on all important matters and as an orator, the S. S. Prentiss, at all public gatherings.  During his idle moments now Col. Stephens frequently writes short stories for the Monitor.  He writes simply for pastime and to amuse, under the non de plume of “Rambler” and it is but natural that he should select his old county as the theater for his slightly embellished histories and happenings of those days that he has seen or heard of.  We have published from his pen many articles as: “The Yellow Rose of Scoona,” “The Bride of Blackankie,” “A Christmas Frohe (sic) ?on Brushy,” “The White Fawn,” “The Bandit’s Daughter,” “She Never Smiled Again,” “A Cornshucking at Old Town, “ etc. etc.

His stories are quiet popular with our people because he gives the real names of his characters frequently men and women who were well known here once and who have many descendants now living in the county, the dates and places are also correct as given.  In short, he writes the truth as he has heard it and as he remembers the incidents.  About the latter part of the sixties, Col. Stephens delivered some timely and appropriate speeches here and elsewhere, and it has often been said by parties who are and were competent judges of classical productions, that his speech to the Masonic fraternity, delivered in the court house here in 1867 and widely published was never surpassed by any orator or writer an although the Colonel has past his three score and ten milepost, his intellect is as clear as a crystal.  He has an article beginning in this number of the Monitor. Read it.   [click here to read "A Sad Story of the War."

[A biography can be found in "TheWay I Heard It: A History of Calhoun County by Ken Nail."  Mr. Stephens is buried in the Water Valley City Cemetery and died in 1911.]