https://kccarchives.cvlcollections.org/files/original/16/415/Flagler.pdf 928934c534abb4d80a58fe631cefdca4 PDF Text Text see if the barn could be put there to compliment the Carousel. After some consideration they decided that the fairgrounds was too small for the barn. Ernest knew that Harold McArthur was going to erect a steel building on some ground that he owned just south of Rose Avenue in Burlington so they talked to Harold about it and of course the first thing that came up was that Harold did not have enough ground to house both his building and the barn. At this time they went to see the barn. Ernest McArthur and Edgar Pratt were sold on having it moved to Burlington. Douglas Hillman owned the barn and had offered to give it to the city or the county if they would move it. Edgar and Ernest then went to the city and found that there would be some ground there for the barn. Rol Hudler, the mayor, did not think that Harold McArthur would cooperate enough to move the building to the barn site, council in Burlington. The work by Ernest McArthur was primary to the conception of "OId Town". Henry Hoskin said that this is the way that he remembers how the idea was born regardIess of whatever anyone else says. Signed Henry Hoskin, board member. Old Town was built to offer the residents in this part of the country a look back at their heritage. With that in mind, the following buildings were either moved to the Old Town location at 480 South 14th Street or they were built as close to 'the way it was' as possible. The main Museum building is known as "The McArthur Building". This building houses most of the unusual antiques. It is a mixture of furniture, paintings, equipment and many, many other items. In this building you will also find the gift shop. In this building you will find a replica of Burlington as it was when it became a town (Incorporated) in the year 1888. Since Old Town is based on eastern Colorado history, a lot of informa- tion and pictures will be available to the viewer. Other buildings in the Old Town complex area as follows: The original Bethune depot; a law office constructed to show a wonderful old Wooten desk and leatherbound law books; a combination bank and land office; a barber shop; an old cream station fully equipped; a wonderful old general store; a blacksmith shop; a large two-story barn where melodramas are held during the summer months; There is an old farm house; a vintage school house; a two-room sod house; a L92l Methodist Episcopal Church from Armel, Colorado; a little frame building full of dolls, a large two-story house built in the early 1900's which is furnished with items dating back to the late 1800's; a drugstore; a saloon; a leather shop; a woodworking shop; a printing office and a research room. There is a brick town square, a wooden windmill and outhouses. You will also find many old-style street lights and boardwalks. The Old Town Board has endeavored to keep these buildings as realistic as possible. Old Town is a community project that was put together to tell the story about Bur- lington and the surrounding area. It is the hope of all involved that this facility will provide jobs as well as promote interest in \ 'l researching our heritage. We also hope this look into the past will bring back fond memories to the older folks and a realization of 'how far we have come'to the young people. -A' r 1 1. I l by Elaine Taylor d,*."'*d^ ..^..". TOWN OF FLAGLER TSll Like many other settlements along the Rock Island Railroad Line, a town's location was determined by the railroad. About every eleven miles, more or less, there was a need to replenish water in boilers of thirsty steamers of that day. Little regard for wishes of early settlers or small existing villages was given by railroad men. This is certainly evident in the location of the town of Flagler. Old Town, 198?, before completion of first phases of construction. but of course Harold was all for it so at this time the city offered to purchase the ground from Kenneth Yersin to place the barn on and Harold offered to put his steel building on the site. They both told Ernest that if he would see that the building was moved they would cooperate. Ernest McArthur contacted the mover from Colby, Kansas and arrangements were made to have the barn moved right ; j i ..*iuio .& ia. 14t' 'l " il':.illl; away, Ernest McArthur was informed that there was a church at Armel that would be donated so Ernest had the church moved to the site. Harold McArthur volunteered to move a small schoolhouse from Cope and Russell McArthur volunteered to erect a blacksmith shop on the site. At this time the city received word that the State of Colorado would build a tourist information center along I-70 at Burlington. The idea of building an "Old Town" similar to the one at Minden, Nebraska was being born and could be a tourist attraction for ELrrlinrrtnn 'fhio irlao aqmo frnm thp nifw a The oldest building and store in Flagler, built in 1890-92, owned by W.H. Lavington. Prior to this his store was housed in a "tent". �of the Rock Island depot and of a new town in the community. While these acts were transpiring, very few noticed a Mr. McGonigal from Colby, Kansas who was very busy a short distance away. He arranged for land and quietly platted a town site about a mile west of Mr. Robinson; this was recorded to have been done in 188? bv one old timer. There is little doubt some beneficial knowledge had taken him to this spot beyond the rail head. The rail head reached Bowser, a good reason for celebration and they did celebrate! Mr. Strode probably found little reason for this as the trackage continued west with no stop near Crystal Springs. Next day, Mr. Robinson wasn't celebrating either as work progressed on west a mile or so and the crew began digging a well which always accompanies a depot. Strangely, the site of well digging was right beside the land and town site Mr. McGonigal had platted! An only structure in the area was a corral, built by the Pubsley brothers, living near Hugo, who ran cattle in the area. School building in 1893, upper right. As the rail head moved westward, progress was closely watched by a few early locals who were hoping for some prosperity in its coming. There was, no doubt, considerable disappointment when the track missed Hoyt by several miles and a new town site named Seibert was established. This occurred about August, 1888. Farther west along a supposed path for the railway was a perfect place to obtain water, an excellent site for a town, near Crystal Springs and quite near the Republican River. Stephen S. Strode had settled there in 1887 and in anticipation of coming trackage, he and a few neighbors platted a town site. Streets were laid out as Chicago, Rock Island, Colorado and Railway going east-west. North-south streets were designated as Front, First, Second and so on. Hopes were high and at this time, Mr. Strode registered a bid for Crystal Springs to become the county seat ofan expected formation ofa new county. Moves were being made to divide Elbert County into several smaller counties in the territory. About this time, Bennet Robinson came to the area flrd samped at the Strode place while he constructed a residence a couple miles west. When he had finished. he established at this location a general store. In honor of a prized dog named Bowser, which had disappeared, he named his site, "Bowser." (referred to by many as "Bowserville"). Mr. Robinson received an appointment as postmaster at Bowser before July, 1888. With an established store and post-office, hopefully along right of way, he felt there would be no doubt as to the location One of the earliest church services held in the neighborhood was conducted by C.W. Smith on July 25th, 1888. Mr. Smith stated it was held in a shack or saloon building, on flat bottom land, about 40 rods northwest of the railroad bridge at the Republican River. The saloon was for convenience of railroad workers there. At a small meeting of railway officials, a name was given the new depot location. They decided to call it Malowe, to honor a railroad attorney, Mr. M.A. Lowell (spelled Mallowin some records). by Lyle W. Stone * * * * *{€ {c rf rlr * * {€ {€ * :l€ The Weekly Register No territory on earth can surpass Eastern Colorado for soil climate and prosperity. Crystal Springs is the least advertised place for its size and age of any place in Colorado. Our numerous springs of pure water is inexhaustible quantities are famous all over the east and when immigrants once reached Elbert County, they are not content until they see Crystal Springs. An abundance of water is appreciated in Colorado and a place so finely favored is certain to fill up in the course of a very short time. Preaching services were held at the S.S. Strode residence last Wednesday evening. Quite a number were present and were well pleased with the service. The track of the Chicago, Kansas and Nebraska is within sixty miles of us and coming at a rate of two miles and one furlong per day. If the track layers continue at this gait, they will reach us by the first of August. Mr. M.A. Lowe, President (?) of the Chicago, Kansas and Nebraska and Mr. W.F. Parker, Chiefengineer ofthe railroad, passed through here last week enroute to Colorado Springs. The party stopped here and had their photos taken and continued their Flagler, looking north toward railroad; Lavington Dry Goods, Williams Drug Store, Rock Island Hotel and water tank visible. overland trip to the Springs, inspecting the work between here and there. The Weekly Register of Crystal Springs, Elbert County, Colorado, July 4th, 1888. by Arch Cunningham �t II TOWN OF FLAGLER l, tiny settlement. First reported structures T3r2 In a matter of days, activity began in the were the railroad section house and water tank. Soon, soddie walls began to appear and other structures began, almost frantically, to take shape. A town well was hand dug northeast of the present municipal maintenance shop. A windlass was used to wind out water for locals and their livestock from the well. Mr. W.H. Lavington and John W. Augustine erected in partnership, a large horse tent. In this tent they operated the settlement's first general store. A fall chill arrived and tents used by railroad gangs gave little protcction from chilly nights. These tents would be little protection from winter's bitter cold. This may be the reason for frantic building in the beginning of settlement history. It is possible some distaste for the nnme given the settlement existed among its Smith Evans Land Company and the I.O.O.F. Hall' built in 1906. residents. After all, railroad men had named it. An opportunity to change this appeared with a reported visit to the rail head of an investor interested in checking on progtess of the railroad. His name was Henry Flagler and reports of his empire in Florida preceded him. A city had been named to honor him. He had just built a fine hotel, the "Ponce De Leon" and he proposed to build a rail line down through the keys. He had performed miracles in transforming part of Florida into a garden spot. To commemoratc his visit, a plan to rename the settlement and afford him a proper welcome was devised. A new name, Flagler, was acceptable; a very new hotel, hastily erected by Mr. Keegan, was renamed "Ponce De Leon," with an appropriate sign affixed to be visible from the depot. An additiond sign was painted and placed near the section - house to asgure recognition of the hotel's name. A gala celebration was January 20, 1909, "spring Fever" on Main St. Third from left is Frank Gibson' Kneeling with fishing pole i. C"tt i.t"tron. Bila Lavirigton in white blouse near "Colby Flour" seat and Bill Heiserman with long fishing pole and straw hat. -1 planned. A 1918 Progress Edition of The Flagler News and The Flagler Progress newspapers record the events of this visit. It was stated Mr. Flagler was quietly pleased with the honors bestowed upon him. (His character did not generally allow him to enjoy celebrations of this sort). Some time later, a banquet was given by Mr. Flagler for people of the area. It was held in Colorado Springs and records tell of nearly 1000 attending. There exists a question of accuracy of this account by one who has researched the life of Henry Flagler. Since the presented data was published in 1918 and should have been prepared with first hand accounts, the story has been presented as described. Postal record date more accurately a change in location of the post - office. The Bowser record has mitten on one of its pages, "Changed sit€ and name to Flagler by order of the Postmaster General, October 13, 1888. Date of communication November 6, 1888." This record marked the end of the existence of a post-office in Bowser. A very early postoffice within the new town was located across the street north of the present Otteman building. (situated in the house once occu- A quiet day in Flagler, 1908, "a one-cow town!" pied by Mrs. Nora Wright, later used as a parsonage). From here the post-office was moved to the John White store building and later to a more permanent location just north �* {c rlc * * rf€ * {€ * * ** rf€ * * FLAGLER EARLY POSTMASTERS At Bowser - Bennett Robinson The Bowser Post Office was moved to the town called Malowe, Jan. 19, 188g - 1st Flagler Postmaster Jelsche Olthoff - to Apr. 30, 1889; May 1, 1889 - 2nd Flagler Postmaster Joseph S. Whitney - to Nov. 30, 1889; Dec. 1, 1889 - 3rd Flagler Postmaster W. H. The Hotel Watters. Lavington - to ? The first Congregational minister was Rev. M. H. Meade. The first instrument filed in the County Clerk and Records office was the bond of County Clerk and Recorder, Edward R. McCrillig. The first warranty deed filed was a deed from J. B. McGonigal to the trustees of the Congregational Church in Flagler. The trustees were: W. Brown, John W. Hunt and W. Landen. Rev. Meade's residence was presumably in Seibert. The first marriage license was issued to Owen S. Small and Zippora Bryant. Marriage rite performed by Rev. M. R. Meade of Seibert. ,1.**{€{€********** Depot, Pump House and Water Tank, first buildings built in the new town of Flagler, Sept. 1988. of the present Williams Pharmacy Store. (it is possible other locations may have existed). A move much later was made to its present location. Under the name, Flagler, the small community began to grow. Mr. Wm. Schuler established a store where later the Flagler Hotel would be built. He served as postmaster, according to his recollection, following Mr. Lavington. A first frame home was built by Mr. Henry Brown. In 1889 Mr. Lavington built a new frame house about two blocks north and one west. by Lyle W. Stone �****rl€tl€********* On Thursday, George O. Gates purchased the F.E. Barnett abstract business books. This set of books is said to be the most complete accord of lands in Kit Carson County either of land tracts or city lots. Mr. Gates is one of the best qualified in this line of work as he serued with credit for four years as county recorder and was deputy recorder Smith - Bernard, 1908-1914. for two years, and possesses a thorough hnowledge of Kit Carson County titLes. The First Congregational minister was Reu. M.H. Meade. The first instrument filed in the County Clerk and Records office was the bond of County Clerk and Recorder, Edward R. McCrillig. The first warranty deed filed was a deed frorn J.B. McGonigaL to the trustees of the Congregational Church in Flagler. The trustees were: W. Brown, John W. Hunt and W. Landen. Reu. Meade's residence was presumabLy in Seibert. The first matiage license was issued to Owen S. Small and Zippora Bryant. Marriage rite perforrned by Reu. M.R. Meade of Seibert. *tf *t*{€***tlc**{c** *fut The Flagler Hotel built 1910-11, later was the Flagler Hospital run by Dr. McBride and Dr. John Straub. Today is the city hall and library. _) r\, 'it 'l �. .. . .:.):::..: . down in 1901. Mr. Robinson moved his store from Bowser to Flagler but later sold out and 't::alii .. moved away. It is evident much activitv occurred in the town of Flagler at this time. In 1895 the first class to graduate in Kit Carson County under a recognized .orl.r" oi study was the eighth grade at Flagler. Thev were taught under the direction of Mrs. tt' Charlotte (Rose) Godsman. She later serveJ at Burlington as principal to establish this course-of study there. This same year Leon .' E. Lavington finished his first schotl year; he was the first child born in the town of irtagier. It is generg-lly accepted among ,".""r."h* that Freda Huntley (Robb) wasihe first child born in the Flagler neighborhood. She was a daughter fo Mr. and Mrs. George W. Huntley, very early homesteaders. A sbddie, located about a block west of the Odd-fellows HaI on the main avenue, served as the first school. -, A first recorded teacher was Miss Mary .,::;,::.tl,l; .: An elevator shot showing Flagler in the early days. Crofteri. School was then held in a buildini constructed for a Congregational Churcf, until a grade school building was completed about 1893. Mr. J.W. Augustine wtro naJ been in.partnership with Mr. Lavington was one of the early school teachers, latei becom_ ing Kit Carson County Superintendent of Schools. Mr. C.W. Smith seried the commu_ nity as a minister and also was an early school teacher. The first doctor recorded in the new village was Dr. P.B. Godsman and may not haie lived here permanently. A first doctor remembered by one old timer was Dr. Allen. s,aying he was the first to stay here. Dr. Godsman was present at an investigation of the first murder in Kit Carson Couity, that of Mr. Harry Hatch. Mr. Hatch livedabout three miles west of Flagler. Dr. O.S. Neff arrived early, a relative of Mrs. William (Mamie Neff) Strode. He arrived at the Neff homestead from Chicago. He was suffering from TB and came for health ,"".orr.] Apparently, the climate was beneficial to hip. A.Dr. Schroyer, physician and surgeon, sold his building and stock to Or. fr. L. C'W' Smith built this beautiful hotel in 1893. Mr. Fry later made his home and ran the Republican paper, "The Flagler Advance". the hotel as well as TOWN OF FLAGLER T313 Charles Bernard opened a hardware store where the present First National Bank is located. This store was later sold to Henrv W. Brown. Earl Brown, his son, operated this store in later years at a location across the street north, where his father had built in later years. A lumber yard was established bv George Cornell located north ofa unique new home. He hauled his first supplies from Hugo where the family also operated a lumberyar-cl. This lumber was hauled by tenm and wagon. Mr. Cornell built a residence which is nowlhe lr_orye o{ John Herzog and family. Colby Hefnew built the Cottage Hotel. Across thl street southwest of the Cornell lumber yard -and was a livery barn and corrals owned operated by Mr. J.A. Mahlsteh. (in the area f*,;'.-'-' of the present bird seed packaging plant). Mr. Keegan operated his "Ponce De Lion" hotel rlong wiht a very active livery stable. Records fell us this hotel was located where the 100F building was later erected. The hotel burned First Flagler Day in 1914. Williams who arrived later, almost by acci_ dent, in the little hamlet. Dr. Williams was impressed with the community in about 190g when he observed it during an unplanned stop over in Flagler. �x Langcamp, Ann-a-Lavington, Money-making project for christian Endeavor society; Left to right --pthe-t i. S"iln U"a."r*ood, Mr.. gilagett, Mrs. Young (thoBarber's wife), Mrs. Jennie Williams, Mrs. Heiney' The "Weekly Register" published an issue at Crystal Springs on July 4, 1888. The next igsue was pubhsned at Malowe; no records tell us of its demise. Arch Cunningham was the publisher. A first publication after this was a small religous paper, "The Messenger of Love," published at a homestead south- west of Flagler by C.W. Smith. Mr. Smith was persuaded- by Mr. Lavington and David S*"yr"" to begin publishing a new newspa- per, "The Flagler Advance," in October, iagr. U.. C.W. Smith then built a house in Flagler, publishing the Advance in the basement. He later sold the house to J.J. Fry' Mr. Smith said it was an unique time in history as all county publishing went outside of Builington with no paper located there. by Lyle W. Stone pill,l,i RnNT Early day Flagler restaurant. �The Flagler Drayman. ress," a first permanent newspaper in 1908. "The Flagler News" was established in l91B by Edward Krutchen. A large number of homesteaders and settlers arrived in the late 1800s and earlv 1900s. The National Bank was established in 1908, the oldest banking institution in Kit Carson County. W.H. Lavington bought a frame building on main street to house his Dry Goods and Grocery store near the k$i - *.,,' present location of the Stop and Shop Grocery. This store had been owned bv M.F. Roberts, established in 1900 and sold to Mr. Lavington in 1902. Dr. H.L. Williams established his office and drug store across the street south of the Lavington store where Don Jones now operates his dairy. W.H. Lavington built a grain elevator. Real estate offices appeared, one operated by C.M. Smith. Mr. Smith and Mr. Bernard operated a real estate office together for a time, located jlryt north of the present Municipal Building. The Flagler Hotel was built by W.H. Lavington and W.L. Price and operated by H.B. Blanken. This hotel was complete with a dining hall and kitchen. This building is the present Municipal Building. Just south of the Flagler Hotel was located the Straub building, a lumber and hardware outlet. South of the Straub building, an early 100F Hall was erected where the Ponce De Leon hotel had burned. This was the site of an improved building in later years. An April 26, 1915 edition of the Flagler News announces that the next issue will be ; Otis Messick & Son and Bob Kelley. TOWN OF FLAGLER T3l4 published by William A. Borland of Brush. Colo. Mr. Borland had visited previously and had looked at several newspapers in the area. He was impressed by the activity, wide main ff fr f /{/4' The advance "died of starvation" in 1894. Charles E. Gibson, a homesteader living south of town, started "The Flagler Prog- *.' FaIl Festival in Flagler, 1914. In center ie Livery Stable where homesteaders kept ;heir horses when coming to seek a homestead site. �**'T K,ffi ->' *{STE * Caravan of motorcycles in front of the Flagler Hotpl. 'i **,1 ',' Lavington's float in the parade. Looking north on Main Street in the Fall of 1910-11. using materials for a garage. Seal Hall was the center of local plays, movies and community events. The Watters Hotel was the scene of local elections and a good place to eat a meal. The growing town of Flagler was without recorded official government for some time. A Flagler Commercial Club existed and was instrumental in promoting the idea of incorporation. At one of their meetings, it was pointed out that side walks, electric plants, water systems, etc., were better handled by a municipal organization. It seems town affairs and financing for needed improv- The Farmers State Bank built in 1912-14 and Reed's Cash Store & Grocery. street and general pride in the community he found here. The Simpson Clothing Store opened February 20, 1915 in the old pool hall south of Dr. H.L. Williams Drug Store. Gromer Brothers opened a new lumber yard in 1915; bad weather hampered its winter construction. At a school election in May, 1915, plans were discussed for a bond issue to build a new high school in Flagler which was soon built. In October, Dr. F.M. Thomas of Macon, Mo. Iocated in Flagler. He began a practice of Osteopathy at the residence of G.W. Johnston. J.C. Straub sold his lumber yard to Gromer Brothers and E.S. Johnson Lumber Company, saying three years were too many for the town. He then bought the ements was accomplished with a poll tax imposed by agreement of its citizens. This continued for some time after incorporation of the town. by Lyle W. Stone TOWN OF FLAGLER T315 In early 1916 petitions were circulated to assess the feeling of residents of Flagler on the matter of incorporating. An official petition was submitted to H.L. Haynes, Judge of the County Court. The court approved the action and appointed a commit- Seal and Seal Hardware stock. E.A. Malbaff broke ground for a new blacksmith shop across the road from the Lemar livery barn. The building was 24 x 50 feet and built of concrete blocks. Mr. Malbaff was operating a shop near or where Lyle Plumb later operated a shoe shop, (Jim Toney Shop). In early 1915, Dr. H.L. Williams began construction of a new concrete and brick building south of the post office. The post office was then located just south of the W.E. Hall, (Ottomans) brick store where H.C. Carper operated his barber shop in later years. Dr. Williams sold his old store to the Beatrice Creamery Company and Wm. Knies, local manager. It is possible Dr. Williams bought the post office building later First black Angus cattle in this area owned by the Lucore's of Arriba, shown at the Flagler Fall Festival in 1914. Frank Gibson, first car owner in Flagler. tee to cause publication and notice of an election in the matter. On October 17, 1916, an election was held at the Watters Hotel, with 116 votes cast, 107 in favor ofincorporation and 9 against. A Certificate oflncorporation from the State of Colorado is dated November 22, 1916. The incorporation committee, H.B. Blanken, W.H. Lavington, E.T. Epperson, D.D. Buck and Elaine Briggs called for an election to be held December 12, 1916 to elect one mayor and six trustees. On that date, Leon E. Lavington was elected mayor, A.J. Lockwood, J.H. Seal, H.B. Blanken, W.W. Reynolds, I.N. Moberly and J.W. White were elected trustees. Since that time long ago, mayors serving the town of Flagler are listed, along with date of oath and some other information. Leon E. Lavington - Dec. 1916; Leon E. Lavington - March 1918; W.R. Heiserman April 1920; Dr. H.L. Williams - (chose not to qualify) - April 1922; R.M. Farquhar (retained office) - April 1922; Dr. H.L. Williams - April 1923;P.T. Bonham - April 1925; Dr. H.L. Williams - April 1927; M.P. Williams - April 1929; Robert S. Bryan April 1930. George P. Gibbs - April 1932, Second Term - April 1934;Will Kliewer - April 1936; J. A. Fruhling - April 1938, Second Term - April 1940, Third Term - April 1942, Fourth Term - April 1944; T. Guard - April 1946; Dan Schlagle - April 1948; Leon E. Lavington, Jr. Term - April 1952; - April 1950, Second Robert Snell - (resigned Jan 1955) - April 1954; Ira Ferrier - (Appointed) - Jan 1955; �., l,.Si!s Civil War veterans, 1906. Fall Festival parade. F. A. Ottoman - April 1956; Russell R. Goodwin - April 1958; H. C. Carper - April 1960; David Rowden - April 1962, Second Term - April 1964; F. A. Ottoman - April 1966; Lyle W. Stone - April 1968, Second Term - April 1970; Richard Peterson - April a first effort to change to electric lighting occurred in a local garage; plans to furnish power to business places on main street were considered. In 1916 the wooden water tank The men in the Modern woodman organization. 1972; Rynold Fager - April 1974; Richard D. Stevens - April 1976, Second Term - (Resigned Sept 1979) - April 1978; Donald L. Jones - (Appointed) - Sept 1979; Robert L. Eikerman - (four year term) - April 1980; Steven E. Goering - April 1984. by Lyle IV. Stone TOWN OF FLAGLER T316 On June 8, 1916, the first senior class graduated from Flagler High School. In 1916 The Royal Neighbors ladies 1. Ive Reynolds; 2. Marry Girvin; 3. Mrs. Monor; 4. Millie Gibbs; Sarah White; 6. Jennie Williams; 7. ElIa Lavington; 8. Loura Davison. Early day citizens of the Flagler area: L. to R.: Mr.Rich; Mr. Boyd; Mr. Quinn; Mr. Mottinger. belonging to the Rock Island Railroad was replaced with a new steel one located farther north of the tracks. A park was promised by the railroad at the time. (I wonder if it ever developed?). The Flagler Telephone Com- pany had lines in operation both north and south of Flagler in 1917. Ida Howland operated a Millinery Shop, probably just south of the building now occupied by Terry's (Cafe). W.R. Heiserman operated a Mortuary; a "motor hearse" was part of the equipment. Dr. F.M. Thomas practiced as an Osteopath. Gromer Brothers operated a lumber yard. J.W. White was proprieter of a Barber shop: "Bring in your laundry Mondays and your hair and whiskers an5rtime." S.A. D. Culbertson bought the Watters Bros Meat Market. Princess Theatre was operated by M.R. Gromer and was showing silent movies. E.A. Malbaff had installed a new disk rolling machine. In January, 191?, Dr. E.W. Reid came to Flagler; he was expected to practice in the Straub building, just south of the Hotel Flagler. Stock was being sold in The Flagler Oil and Gas Company, who were drilling for oil nearby. In 1917 a petition to create a new county, to be named Flagler, was circulated and presented to the state legislature. Reason given was a distance of 50 to 60 Afternoon, 1913 or 1914, Fourth of July celebration, man in black suit is Dr. Neff. miles to the county seat. This bill was defeated in the next session. �A progress edition of the Flagler Progress and Flagler News was published in early 1918. In December the two newspapers merged to become The Flagler News, owned and published by William Borland. Newspaper items in 1917 and 18 include the effects of World War I on the community. August, 1917, Dr. M.C. Traw, DDS passed the examinations for the dental reserve corps, subject to call by his country. He had been practicing in the community for some time. In January, 1918, a publication of members of a home guard appeared, listing prominent members of the community. Arlie Wilson bought the W.E. Hall building in 1918. During this year a flu epidemic was rampant in the community; business places were visited only by necessity and public meetings were banned at times. Many died of what was often termed "Spanish Influenza." In 1919 casing arrived for the new oil well; some time later, the hole was pronounce dry. A soda fountain with all the "fizzes" wag installed by H.H. Kliewer at Dr. Williams pharmacy. Supt. C.H. Allen continued his work at Flagler High School in 1919 and the Flagler News installed a new modern Li- notype. This year the Flagler Fire Depart- Early day baseball team. mentwas organized. Jesse Yocum was elected first fire chief. The Flagler Hotel changed management: P.P. Stromeyer to Gus Mayot. In April, Wm. I. Sutton purchased stock and fixtures of Pedergon's Cafe. H.G. Grey barber shop changed management to its original proprietor, John W. White. One Barber Shop was located just south of the Straub building, north of the 100F Hall. An election was held on September 23, 1919 to decide whether or not Flagler would have a water works. Before the end of this year, work on the system had commenced. A decision to install an electric light plant occurred in 1919. Bids for the power house were received in November. The'20s were busy years in the community with Flagler becoming a business hub of the area. In December, 1921, electric power from the Flagler plant was turned into a heavy line serving the town of Seibert. These were years of many people and most towns did well in Kit Carson County. In L927 a few of the business places were The Flagler Lumber This colt, named "Liberty" was donated by H.C. Jones to the Red Cross of Flagler and was raffled off on April 13, 1918. \ Yard operated by John R. Miller, Palace gs Meat Market and Grocery - Chas. Jackson, J.A. White Hardware, Flagler Garage Wright and Fruhling, Leon E. by Lyle W. Stone Bert and Agnes Soule. After a big snow. TOWN OF FLAGLER Lavington - (Fords), The Flagler Hardware Co. - G.H. Rice, First National Bank - W.H. Lavington, Sanitary Barber Shop - E.W. Conarty, The Farmers Union, W.L. O'Brian DDS, Shaw Mortuary - Hamer Shaw, B.L. Miller Dray and Transfer, Nels Jorgensen (International Harvestor - Atwat- T3r7 er Kent), Leroy E. Cuckow (auto parts, wagons - equipment) and The Flagler Mercantile Co. - H. B. Blanken. In 1928, some ofthe business places, a few may have been active earlier were Flagler Cash Store - C.E. Reavis, Flagler Cleaners O.A. Groves, Red and White Food Co. - Bob Bryan, Royal Theatre, Jackson's Store Chas. Jackson, Home Market (in Jackson's The fire was started by a coal heater in the depot, winter of 1931. All ready and no place to go? 1923. store) - Noah Wold. The shock of a national financial upset in late 1920s is apparent in local history when �ads for autos and equipment begged for a change in the system where loans and charge sales could again be used. In 1929 people of TOWN OF FLAGLER T318 Flagler turned down a bid from Rocky Mountain Utilities for purchase of the light plant. This was accomplished at a vote of the people in August. Sam Combs bought a barber shop from E.W. Conarty. Nels Jorgen- sen was selling Desotos and then Crystler cars. Chas. Jackson called his store the Golden Rule Cash Store. Arthur Robb was operating Flagler Variety Store. Some other business places were White Eagle Service Station - Delbert Todd, Fred Mosher Grain - Jay Roberts, Flagler Filling Station - Pearl Lord, S.E. Teeter (cream, poultry and eggs), Leech Hardware, Guthrie's Shoe Store, Farmers Union - G.M. Baxter, Flagler Bakery Joseph Werner, Hollywood Cream Station C.B. Dean, Williams Pharmacy - H.L. Williams, Earl Browns (stil in business from long ago), and others. Walter Conarty, Kit Carson County sheriff from this area, was faced with the Orville Lindberg murder near Burlington. Mrs. Straub received a recommendation for postmaster. The Royal Theater of Flagler was making plans for new Train wreck, not identified. Train wreck near Flagler in the early 1930's. Minar. The 1936 business places include Shaw Mortuary, Palacy Cafe - May and Jay Roberts, Martin Shoe Shop, Carpers Barber and Beauty Parlor - H.C. Carper Olivette - movies with sound! In April, 1930, Sam Sprague was repairing the Rock Island Hotel. Clarence Wright began building the Wright Building, (Grand Theater). In August, O.M. Olsen bought the Rock Island Hotel. After a question of showing movies on Sunday was resolved, the Grand Theater opened. T. Guard bought the Flagler News about 1933. Pearl Lord opened a large adobe building along Highway 24 in March, 1934. It was expected to house a restautant, garage, filling station and rooms for rent. The 1930s were the dusty and dry years; many left the area. Dr. O'Brian moved away to Las Animas and Dr. Austin of that place came to Flagler, leaving again in October for Eagle, Colorado. Survival became a problem in the area. It did rain but these usually cnme in torrents and run off due to dusty conditions caused unforgettable floods, one breaking all records in 1935. Many travelers were stranded in Flagler at this time; supplies for the town were terminated in both directions. Lives were lost along the Republican River. Marion Williams operated Williams Pharmacy and children of this time will remember when he traded an ice creem cone for an egg on special days! Mrs. Gibbs Fall of 1944 train wreck which happened in a terrible fog. operated a small candy store on the west eide of main avenue, visited often by the children with their weekly allowance of a nickel. C.M. Smith was serving as Kit Carson County Judge in Burlington. Flagler Hospital was opened in the remodeled Flagler Hotel building by Dr. W. L. McBride of Seibert. A few other 1930s businees places were Law Land Office - W.H. Law, The Palace Barber Shop - Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Embree (later Campbell). Oliver Blanken was selling Willys - Overland, Willys - Knight and Whippet cars in the early 30s, Diets Funeral Home, Andre Home Mortuary, G.W. Klokenteger, Atty. In 1933 Ruby's Market appeared - W.E. ;-1.:**"";,. Y. Ruby, Tony's Shoe and Harness Repair Shop - Jim Tony, Gladden's Garage - A.K. Glad- den, The Flagler Truck Line - Herron Bros, Deluxe Cleaners - M.E. Harris and Square Deal Garage - Geo. by Lyle W. Stone By the water tower. �and in the fall of 1951, a celebration was Train derailment. planned, centering around an air show. Near the beginning of the celebration, a plane craehed into a crowd of spectators. Twenty were killed and that many injured; most were local. There was never a complete recovery from the shock of this event. Later this same year, the Flagler High School building burned. Very soon a fine new twelve grade school was constructed under the direction of Wm. McKinley after a vote on a bond issue, a tussle over bonding, and a drive for necessary local funds. Lyle's TV & Radio Service was established in 1951 by Lyle and Laura Stone; they purchased T. Guard's refrigeration and electrical business later. In 1956 Flagler installed a modern sewer system with an associated disposal plant. On May 15, 1953, Flagler Hospital closed due to increasing operating costs and ever increasing regulations. Dr. Straub continued to maintain his medical office in the building for a time and then accepted a location, Plains Medical Center in Limon, to continue his practice. Plans were developed for a medical center and later a hospital for the community. A The Republican river bridge on highway 24 east of Flagler after the flood of 1935. medical center was built. Though a permanent doctor was not found. the center was seldom without medical use. In 1964 a strenuoug effort to create indus- Ellis, Bus's Service Station, Dr. C.W. Zink, DDS, Bryan's Red and White, T.H. Hill try in the town of Flagler met with some (Conoco Products), Dr. W.L. McBride, MD, Moffett's Dry Goods Store, Nels Jorgensen ed met failure, a bird seed packaging plant remained, spearheaded by Wayne Fagerlund with help of other local citizens. This bit of industry remains and is a welcome addition (International Harvestor, refrigeration, radio) and Pearl's Garage, Cafe and Rooms (all under one roof). Certainly, there were others. The 1940's held an improvement in weather and with it the second world war. All towns felt losses of young men and their absence from the communities. Dances were accompanied by sale of war stamps and bonds. Scrap drives to produce more iron and needed staples were held. Rationing of tires, gasoline and most commodities became a way of life. Dr. Zink, who had operated a dental office in the community, closed his office to leave for the service. A few cars were sold to very lucky people by Fruhling Motor Company and Lavington Motor Company. It was not unusual to see burnpers of 2 x 6 wood instead of a normal bumper. Jorgensen success. Although most of the projects start- to the business of the town. This plant has been in. by Lyle W. Stone TOWN OF FLAGLER T319 operation for over twenty years. Natural gas was added to the utilities of the town. Hal Borland, son of Wm. Borland, publisher of the Flagler News, wrote many books through the 50s to 70s. He became a distinguished Drilling for oil south of Flagler. author and in 1970 honored his home town with "Country Editor's Boy." A memorial room exists in the Municipal Hall in his honor. In this short paper, only a very small portion of the business places and other entities of the town are listed, space will not allow mention of all things. Certainly, a book could be written about the many facets and endeavors making up the town of Flagler. Businesses of 1987 are many, including The First National Bank, L.P. Gas Service, Ottomans Cash Store and Locker Plant. Creighton Agency, Inc, The Office Recrea- tion Center, Flagler Video USA, Williams Pharmacy, Conoco Bulk Plant, M & S Texaco, Dorsch Grain Company, Flagler Aerial Spraying, D & M Steiger, Flagler Farm Equipment, Coast To Coast, Moss Corner, Flagler Farmers Co-op, Airport Restaurant, Lyle's TV & Radio Service, Flagler Equity Co-op, Colorado Bird Seed Packaging, Colorado Tax Center, R-K Hedging Service, The Mane Event, Randy's Auto Body Shop, Smith Service, Stop and Shop Super Market, Daves Barber Shop, Ron Pottorff Insurance, Terry's (cafe), Don's Dairy, High Plains Wholesale, Lark's Welding, Tip Top Service, Witts Family Store, Rowe Motors, Shideler Electric, Ethel's Beauty Shop, Koch - Opera- tions, Inc, Mac Tools, Agtec Inc, Green Horizons, J & J Parts and Repair, American Legion Club, Don's Liquor, The Flagler News, Fager Sales, Thad-Russ Ceramics, Joels Design Painting, John Shulda Electric, V & L Locks Service, Corky's Sales and Implement Company delivered an occasional International tractor and other needed items. The M&S Garage opened about 1943, so named in a "naming" contest won by Lillian Lord, by Millard and Sylvia Petersen. Flagler installed a 5 HP fire siren near the Malbaff Garage in November, L947. Curtis Clark established a cement block factory. After the war was over, Dr. John C. Straub returned from service and began a practice at the Flagler Hospital. The hospital gained national recognition for its outstanding care and special medical family teem. Just one of many memorable feats at the hospital was saving the life of Ernest Verhoeff, who had been injured internally by a bucking horse, with a new drug called Penicillin. In 1948, The Flagler News was published by a new editor and owners, Clyde and Ruth Coulter. T. Guard retired from the paper and continued in a Refrigeration and Electrical business. Nelson Stake bought and began operating the Flagler Airport. A Rural Fire Protec- tion District, using Flagler firemen, was established in 1948-9. The 1950's held tragedies in store for the town of Flagler. Economy was near a normal Plowing sod with 2 four bottom plows, Roy Bryant equipment. �l,ir' * "-: Threshing bundles of wheat. Service, The Mile Saver Shopper (shopping service publication), Soil Conservation Ser- vice, Bogart Well Service, Fashion Corner and Winfrey & County CPA's. Sincere hope is that none have been missed. This long list of business endeavors is included with the thought that in another 100 years, it will be very interesting. Remembering the restless vitality and undying hopefulness ofthose earliest inhabitants of Flagler who tired so very hard to make a worthy town of their settlement, it is not unlikely they would smile on the place Flagler has become. Generally, it is a very clean town with a neat business section, many trees and parks. There is yet a stigma among inhabitants of Flagler which seems evident in all years from the beginning, to better their community. Often, the impossible has been accomplished at great odds, to create, organize and establish. The latest accomplishment, a new golf course is an example of this community effort. Yes, I believe those special people of the past would smile if they could walk the streets of Flagler today. Very soon, on or before October, 1988, the Town of Flagler will have crossed a milestone: 100 years since steel rails tied this place firmly to the rest of the country. It should be a time for celebration and for great hope for Flagler's future. This same stigma must have been felt by earliest residents and those who followed, to make it a great place. We of today must continue this same courage and effort to preserve and make it even better. by Lyle T[. Stone They just get big in this part of the countryl �FLAGLER T320 rrirr::1r.:ri. :f: r:::l.l li: ,i' : : t.1,,:t,; -' f!l$r.;,,fi!ti ;:,.,,;11 -: ri lli.::l'.il::r:ll dfr* -: ;aai': - "*c " ;'- 'l *'i3., :.' : l:ir,llrt.i$.$?tirs{9i.i!$!a$ rl r.L -t1.", ' -i fffi5 *l i{t J1 "€- �FLAGLER CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH T32r including the pulpit, lecturn, and altar still in use in the present church was completed in 1953, and in this same year plans for a new Sunday School building were made and these plans were fulfilled in the present education building in 1954. Rev. Don Meek followed Rev. Matheny in 1958, serving until June of 1961. During these years there was a noted growth in church membership and attendance, and increased activity of the youth gtoups. In 1960, it was voted to build a new church building, and in Feb. 1961, the church voted in favor of the union of the Congregational Christian Church and The Evangelical and Reformed Church to form the United Church of Christ. In July 1961, it was decided to raise funds for the proposed building, which was completed within a few months and dedicated with appropriate ceremonies on Nov. 12, 1961. In May 1962, Rev. Ernest Maedche was First Congregational Church at Flagler from 1915 until 1961 when the new church was built. On December 13, 1888, the Flagler Congregational Church warl organized by Reverend D.H. Minnich, a circuit rider from Arikaree, who also served as pastor to five other churches in the area. The charter members were: Rev. Minnich, H.W. Brown, William Hunt, E.M. Lyon, Florence Lyon, Mr. Hatch and Mrs. Hanna Strode. Within the year, plans were made to build a church which was completed a few years later with the assistance of a $300 laon from the Congregational State Committee. The new church was one of the first buildings in the pioneer Flagler settlement, and wag at the present location of what is known as the late C.M. Smith home at Fifth and Loveland. The building was also occupied by the school when it was moved from a soddy to the church building. The building was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. C.M. Smith in about 1915 called to the Flagler Church, serving until June 1966. In Nov. 1966, Rev Leslie R. Poeschel was called to minister and served until the fall of 1972. The Rev. Frank McCall of the Arriba First Congregational served as interim pastor until Nov. L, L973, when Rev. Harvey K. Griffith was called by the congregation. Rev. Griffith in co-operation with Rev. McCall in 1976, formed a Parish Planning Committee composed of the officers of the Arriba and Flagler churches for the purpose of forming a yoked ministry. This yoked field was voted into being in June 1976 when Rev Griffith was called by the Arriba Congrega- 1912. In 1912, Reverend George Gibbs was called to minister to the church. At this time. CATHOLIC CHURCH T322 First Congregational Church, two were united in marriage in the second building, and the Rev. Harvey Griffith and Bernita Challis were united in marriage in the new church building in Nov. 1976 with the Conference minister Rev. George Otto, presiding in a Thanksgiving Day Celebration that included a dinner serving for over 200 persons. the fall of 1988. Ministers of First Congregational Church, Flagler, Colo. are: Minnich, Dec. 13, 1888 Dec. 31, 1891; Jones, Jan. 1, 1892 - Mar. 1, 1892; Tuttle, Mar. 1, 1892 - Aug. 1, 1896; Smith, Aug. 1, 1896 - Jun. 1, 1903; Edgar, Jul, 1903 - Oct. 1, 1903; Faner, Oct., 1903 - May his leadership the church membership increased to fifty-four. Rev. E.H. Blodgett ministered to the church from 1905 to 1910, followed for one year by Rev. Hopkins, 1910 to 1911, and the Rev. E.P. Owens for one year from 1911 to ST. MARY'S Council until the present time. Two ministers were ordained in the Flagler The house which is the present parsonage was purchased by the church to serve as the minister's home in 1928. Reverend Phillip Pennington served the Flagler church from 1950 to 1954. During his ministry, the Youth Fellowship was revived, a church nursery instituted, a new chancel, and served the church until 1903. and under May, 1955; G.H. Underhill, Jun., 1961 - May, 1962; F.M. McCall, Nov., 1972 - Oct., 1973; Carla Gilbert, Jun., 1972 - Oct., 1987; Natelli, Nick, Oct., 1987. ly under the guidance ofthe Parish Executive plans were being made for a new church building. In 1913, a site was selected and on Oct, 4,1914, the new church was dedicated, a building which was to serve the congregation until Nov. 12. 1961. Christmas Day, 1892, uniting Edley T. Epperson and Nina M. Miller in marriage. Rev. C.W. Smith followed Reverend Tuttle 1966; Poeschel, Nov. 1, 1966 - Nov. 1,t972; Griffith, Nov. 1, 1973 - Jun. 1, 1986. Interims: Lester Sperberg, Oct., 1954 - tion to serve as their pastor, thereby establishing the hoked ministery, with 238 members and 94 students. It has operated smooth- From 1976 through 1978 the Board of Trustees worked on a renovation program in the church buildings and the pars.onage, with some painting, carpeting, new windows for the sanctuary, and with a new kitchen, bathroom and study, along with tree removal and landscaping. at the parsonage. The Ladies Aid Society has supported the renovation and general program of the church with both their time and funds, which were raised when they have an annual summer long Bargain Shop on Main Street. It must be told also that the effective work of the boards and committees of the church has continued to keep the congregation active in the ministry that serves well both its membership and the Flagler Community. A breezeway, joining the Education building and the church was completed in the early 1980's to make one complete building, a 100th anniversary celebration is planned for and remodeled for a home. Rev. Tuttle occupied the pulpit form 1892 to 1896, and during his ministry the first wedding was performed in the church on 16, 1905; Blodgett, Jun 4, 1905 - May 16, 1910; Hopkins, May 16, 1910 - Mar 1, 1911; Owens, Jun 1, 1911 - Jun. ,l,L9l2; Gibbs, Jul. L, 191.2 - Arg., 1, 1915; Marquardt, Dec. 1, 19f5 - Dec. 1, 1917; Moore, Aug. 1, 1919 Aug, 1925; Schwab, Nov., 1925 - May, 1928; Gibbs, May 1928 - Aug. 1929; Leach, Aug., 1929 - Aug., 1932; Read, Jun., 1932 - Sept. 1932; Gibbs, Sept. 1932 - Dec. 1943; Allingham, Jan 15, 1935 - Jun., 1937; Thomas, Jun., 1937 - Mar., 1942; Bryant, Sep. 7, 1942 - Aug. 1944; Macon, Jul., 8, Lg44 - Jul 1948; Hahn, Sep. 5, 1948 - Sep. 15, 1949; Pennington, Jan. 1, 1950 - Oct. 1, 1954; Matheny, May 1, 1955 - Jun., 1958; Meek, Jun., 1948 - Jun., 1961; Maedche, May, 1962 - Jun., St. Mary's Catholic Church, Flagler. I presume the first known Catholics in the Flagler area were the Michale Quinn family who arrived to work on the railroad on March 28, 1888. Other families arriving later in the area were the Andrewjeskys who came in 1907 and the Ostrowskis who arrived in 1909. Other names remembered were Miciejeski, Greek, Bakuski, Jasjievic, Gregel and the Krafts. Once a year a Polish priest from Denver would come out to the area to offer Mass in one of the homes and to baptize the new babies born that year. Some of these families only lived in the community for three years or less. In 1930 the Charles Keller family arrived, to be followed later by Chappla, Chivilicek, Naus, Selenke, Horning, Clark, Heinrick, Lueb, Grant, Eder, Paul Wimmer, Vince Wimmer, McCormick, Lowe, Hubbard, Kelly and Ford families. These Catholics as well as the previous Catholics now traveled to Strat- ton or Hugo to attend Sunday Masses, weather permitting. In 1947 Father Edward Dinan and Father Charles Salmon from the Stratton Church saw the need for a church in Flagler and offered to take turns coming to Flagler to say Mass. Their first Mass was in a back room of the Case Implement Building on Main Street owned by Vern Naus. (This is now Randy's �Body Shop). Plans were soon made for a church building and Father Dinan appointed Charles Keller, Andrew Selenke, and Vern Naus to purchase a school building from Idalia and have it moved to Flagler and remodeled into a church. These three men donated $500.00 each and other families quickly added to the building fund. Record show the 3O by 22 ft. school house was purchased for $1,750.00 and the 4 lots on 8th St. for $750.00. George Hubbard and Charles Keller went to Brighton for church pewe. On October 26, 1947, the first Mass was offered in Flagler's St. Mary's Catholic Church. Records show the following: first baptisms: Karen Janette Eder, April 11, 1948 and Rose Ellen Grant, April 22, 1948; first marriage: Jack McKay and Myrtle Dine, Sept. 5, 1959; first funerals: Georege Oscar Epperson, Feb. 26, 1951 and Margaret (Maggie) Epperson, Dec. 24, 1956. Other baptisms, marriages, first communions, the confirmations and funerals were in St. Charles Church at Stratton. The first meeting of the Altar & Rosary Society was October 6, 1949 in the home of Maggie Epperson. President was Kathryn Hubbard and sec./treas. was Maymie Lueb. On July 2, L959, Limon's Catholic Church building was purchased as they were building a new church. This building was moved to the former George Epperson property which had been willed to the church in 1956 by Maggie Epperson. On Oct. 25, 1959, we had our first Mass in our new location. The Epperson house was converted to our Parish House. Father Dinan was still our priest. Helen McCormick has been our organist most all of these years. We are grateful to Virginia Eder who has put together with pictures a beautiful and complete history book of the church. It lists families, priests, sacraments, funerals and other special events. We now have over 25 families in our church. Father Jerry Kelleher who is also the priest for Hugo and Limon is our priest. Our lecturers are Gayla Jones and Shelly Wieser. Kelly Wieser and Jesse Bezdek, are our altar boys. Eucharistic Ministers are Ron Wieser, Tom Arensdorf, Pat Ford, Don Jones, Ray ''.f :..r:*.Y) t I ffi;* :;m Flagler Baptist Church as it now stands with the original structure and the new addition. buildings in town before the church was constructed. Meetings were held in Seal's Hall (Wickham Hardware Building), the house that C.M. Smith lived in and, some- a dollar to join. From the nine women who started the society, three circles were later formed and still meet regularly. In the fall of 1947, the Women's Mission Society began time later, a school house was moved into town north of the present Baptist Church. giving a banquet for all the Flagler High Services continued there under the pastorate of Rev. Hill. On June 30, 1918 the Flagler Baptist Church was organized, with the Rev. W.F. Henry as pastor and fourteen members. This is still being continued. Charter members were: Mr. and Mrs. J.H. Reade, Mr. and Mrs. R.S. Bryan, Mr. and Mrs. C.W. Alexander, Mr. and Mrs. H. Pangborn, Mrs. Amelia Miller, Mrs. Alma Williams, Mrs. Amelia Alexander, Mrs. Ella Stone, Mrs. Eunice Hughes and Mrs. Ethel School graduates and eighth grade graduates. In 1948, girls guild was started and remained active until 1980. by Renee Loutzebhiser TIIURMAN CHURCH T324 Stutzman. The following summer, lots were secured "Thurman's Church of circa 1915, built to place ofworship until the upper structure was completed the later part of December 1927. Dedication services were held January 29, 1928. The approximate cost was $8000.00. replace one burned in a prairie fire, stands in spite ofa devastating tornado which killed 11 people nearby in the early 1920's." Adam's book does not state this north of Flagler denomination, but old timers here remember it was Mennonite. They bring to building were Fred Probasco, John Collier, came along one summer Sunday as all the E.B. Walker and R.S. Bryan. The pastor at that time was Rev. William Peterson. The First Thanksgiving service was held in the church in 1928 with a bountiful basket dinner. The first wedding held in the sanctuary was that of Rhynold Fager and Crystal Hale on March 6, 1938. In the spring of 1939, Mr. W.H. Lavington gave a house to the church for use as its parsonage. This house is now the home of the Glenn Saffers'. Also, about this time, Mrs. congregation had gathered at the home ofthe minister, Rev. Kuhn, for a basket dinner. The menfolk had gone about 100 feet from the house to the garage to admire the preacher's new fliwer. The women and some children were in the house cleaning up after the dinner when out of the blue the cyclone swept down from the southwest, missing the garage, but lifting up the house with all its occupants and slamming it down some distance away. Many were injured, the eleven losing their T323 John Hale painted the scene behind the baptistry in the sanctuary. lives. The minister's wife and also his two About the year 1911, Grace Chapel Car was moved onto a siding just west of the Flagler Depot. The Rev. and Mrs. A.C. Lintzenger were in charge in this car which, also, had living quarters for the minister and his family. The car seated forty to fifty people. It was from the interest in evangelism of people who attended services in the Chapel Car. that a decision was made to establish a Baptist Church in Flagler. Places of worship were held in different During the years, the church had its growth Hinman and Mary Ann Wimmer. Debbie Ford is our church treasurer. Altar and Rosary Society officers are Clara Hinman, Helen Keller and Virginia Eder. Lynda Jones is in charge of our religious education program. The teachers are Jeanne Wieser, Karn Arensdorf, Char Smith and Ceceila Blackwell. by Clara Hinman FLAGLER BAPTIST CHURCH and the basement was constructed at an approximate cost of $4000.00. This was the The main workmen on the new church strengthened by the addition of members from what had been the Shiloh Baptist Church and the Twin Lakes Church, later known as the Zion Baptist Church. This church was in the midst of the dust bowl area in the mid 30's and had a hard struggle to maintain itself. At the February 2L, t92l meeting of the church, it was voted to organize a missionary society with weekly dues of fifteen cents and mind the tragic story of how the tornado daughters were among the victims. One of the daughters was holding a baby which was uninjured. The windmill and all outbuildings were strewn along the flat countryside, which was populated by the pastor's chickens running naked since the wind blast had taken off their feathers. At the mass funeral, the caskets stood outside the church and the bodies are in the little cemetery where the church used to stand before it was moved to the present site near the Thurman Post Office. �l.K According to Mrs. M.!). !'erguson of Burlington, formerly Faye Zook - Pangborn, mother of Burlington pharmacist, William Pangborn, Thurman first had a church before the turn of the century. Its Amish congregation sat for services with no singing nor music of any kind with a division down the center on one side, women on the other. Born -in men the area, she was baptized in this white frame meetinghouse which was later consu- med in the devastating fire. The wind fanned blaze swept over the hill for the northeast in about the year 1914, narrowly missing the Pangborn and Zook farms. Zion Lutheran School in the 1920's, Mr. Daberkow, teacher. Tongues of flames flared skyward for miles, 1894, by Missionary Klettke of Burlington. fed by the "go - back" bushy grass, with scarcely a homesteader left in the area to get The first congregation was formed in February, 1909 northeast of Arriba, during the time of missionary Heinrich Schmidt, son-in-law of Mr. and Mrs. Diedrich P. Blancken. barrels of water and gunny sacks on a wagon to fight the fire. Go - back grass resulted when land was given up after sod had been broken and hard - pressed settlers fled elsewhere to make a living. Soon, plans began toward beginning a congregation at Flagler. Under the guidance of the pastor at Arriba, H. Stegemann, this goal was realized with the organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Zion Congregation of Flagler, on April 10, 1911. There were ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH T326 approximately twenty-eight souls and twenty-four communicants. Voting members were: Henry B. Blancken, D.F. Blancken, William Hohenstein, Henry Schwynn, John Krause, Henry Rabe, Martin Mueller, Ed Scholote, Henry Weidenhammer and Herman Blancken. Zion's first church building was a schoolhouse, purchased and moved in from northeast of Flagler. This building stood at the southwest corner of Pawnee and Seventh. Only a few services were held in it, as Zion, in 1917, was able to buy a building of the Iowa Lutheran Synod, on the main street of Flagler, acrogs from the present church. It doubled as a facility for the Christian day school, and served well until the new church building was dedicated in 1962. An interesting note in the early history of The old church and parsonage. Zion wae the seating arrangement for worship services. As was the custom in many German - Lutheran congregations, the men sat on one side of the room and the women on the other. The Christian day school children sat in their school desks, which for Sunday worship were pushed together towards the front of the room. This practice lasted into the early 1930's. Another interesting historical note regards the role of the German language in Zion's history. In the early years, worship and instruction were in German. Through the Zion Lutheran Church Flagler, built in 1962. The history of Flagler's Zion congregation arose out of the dedication and hard work of German Lutheran families who settled in the Arriba - Flagler area in the 1890's, and of the early missionaries who ministered among them. The first Lutheran services were held in the home of Henry B. Blancken, in May, years it gradually gave way more and more to English, with German services discontinued for good in 1942. A Christian day school was an important part of Zion's history for twenty-five years. The first parochial school was begun in 1913 by Pastor H. Stegemann. It had an enrollment of two, and was taught by the pastor. Sometime in the years following this school disintegrated, and so Pastor F.B. Bierwagen started it anew in 1921. It boasted six pupils at its opening. Pastor Bierwagen taught for the fust four years. He was succeeded by student Eugene Kuechle in 1925-26, and student A.G. Schneewind in L926-27. ln 1927 Ernst Daberkow, a graduate of Concordia Teachers College of Seward, Nebraska, came as teacher, and served through the end ofthe L944-45 school term. Mr. Daberkow also served as Sunday school superintendent and teacher, and as organist, during his professional service at Zion. He currentlv still lives in Flagler, and is a faithfully - attending member of the church. The highest enrollment of the Zion Christian day school was forty seven, in 1931-32. In the 1940's dwindling resources forced Flagler and Aniba to operate a joint parochial school. The 1943-44 school year was held in Arriba. with 1944-45 and 1945-46 back in Flagler. Paster William A. Steil was a teacher during the last term. Through the years of its existence Zion's Christian day school proved a great blessing, being instrumental in the molding of not a few fine churchmen and churchwomen. Zion was received into membership in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod at the first convention of- the Colorado District of the synod in Colorado Springs on June 8-14, t921. Lay delegate to that convention was Diedrich Blancken; pastoral delegate was F. Bernard Bierwagen, who also represented Immanuel. Arriba. Zion had been a member congregation of the Missouri Synod ever since. In the period from 1925 to 1944 the congregation requested and received subsidy from the Colorado District from time to time. By the grace of God experienced in good crops in L944,Zion was able to return the last check from the district Mission Board, and has remained self-supporting ever since. Through the years she has, in fact, been able to increasingly support the work of the church at large, through district and synod. In 1961 Zion closed out its first halfcentury and began the next with a celebration of its 50th anniversary on Cantata Sunday, April 10, under the theme "What God Hath Wrought." Services were held morning and afternoon at Flagler High School, with more than 400 in attendance at each. Guest preachers for the occasion were first resident pastor F.B. Bierwagen, and Dr. John W. Behnken, president of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. - On Sunday, September 24, ground was broken for a new church building on lots across the street to the east. Construction began in October. Architect was John Y. Brown, Jr., of Lamar; the contractor W.C. Davis, also of Lamar. Serving on the building committee was Alvin Kasten, chairman; David Michal, Wilbur Haeseker, Walter Timm and LaVern Einspahr. February 25, 1962 broughtthe laying ofthe cornerstonel and the new facility was dedicated on May 27. Total building costs were $78,008.89. The old building was put up for sale by auction. It is now a residence on Navajo Avenue. On November 25, Zion hosted a special community memorial service for assassinated President John F. Kennedy. A high point was reached at the end of 1971, with the paying off of the debt on the church building. The mortgage was burned with proper ceremony in a special afternoon service of thanksgiving and praise on June 4. In 1975 a significant change was made in Zion's constitution. with Article VI amended to read "male voting members to be eighteen years of age," rather than twenty-one. In January of 1978 the congregation decided to trade the parsonage for the Dave Morris home, a large brick ranch style house, which then became the parsonage. The difference in price was approximately $38,500. The original parsonal still stands across the street as the Dave Morris home. �As it turned out, this home required considerable expense and time in repairs, and in August of 1980 it was sold for $85,000' In November it was decided to build a new parsonage. Lots were purchased at 315 Pawnee Avenue. and a Boise Bradford II home was chosen. It was completed the following May at a cost of $71,440.50, and is the present parsonage. Also in August 1980 another amendment was made to Article VI of the constitution, "Right of Suffrage," to allow all members eighteen years and older to vote and hold office, with women excluded from holding only the offices of president and elders, according to the requirements of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. A significant- decision was made in the autumn of 1983, increasing frequency of - 1943-1945: William A. Steil - 1945'L947; Gustav G. Kreft - 1948-1950; Leslie L. Ludwig - 1950-1955; Gilbert Busarow - 19551957: Franklin L.W. Hoffmann, Jr. - 19571964; Pete D. Pedersen - 1964-1971; John B. Luttman - 1971-1975; Paul Westerlund 1976-L977; Robert C. Rowland II - 1978- 1980; Mark Yates - 1980-1981; and James M. Elmshauser - 1982-. Teachers Who Served in the Christian Day School H. Stegemann (pastor) d 1913; F.B. Bierwagen (pastor) - l92l-L925; Eugen Kuechle (student) - L925-L926.; A.G. Schneewind (student) - L926-1927; Ernst Dakerkow L927-L945; William A. Steil (pastor) - 19451946. celebration of the sacrament of Holy Communion from the first Sunday of each month to the first, third, and fifth Sundays, and major festival days. This brought Zion's worship practice closer to the historic practice of the whole Christian Church, and to Lutheran practice following the Reformation in the 16th century. Beginning in November 1984 the congregation began use of the new worship book, the Lutheran Book of Worship on Sundays, in alternation with the old worship book, The Lutheran Hynnal. Use of the two books continues on an alternating basis, offering the best of two worlds for those who come to worship. Through the years, Zion has been served by seventeen pastors (listed below). Fourteen of them have been shared with Immanuel Lutheran Church ofArriba, Colorado, reflecting the close ties that have existed with that congregation since their common origins. During much of Zion's history, the two churches have had a dual parish arrangement, sharing a pastor, an arrangement continuing very successfully at the present. Among other things the two churches share are special worship services, junior high confirmation class, and an annual Rally Day celebration in the fall. On Saturday and Sunday, June 21, and22, bv Jim Elmshauser LSC CLUB HISTORY T326 Ladies Social Circle, LSC, is best recorded and remembered in quoting an item appearing in an August 12, 1965 item in the Flagler News, celebrating the 50th anniversary of this club. This item gives a welcome record of it's founding and of many of the persons who lived in a vast area south of Flagler. Although it's beginning was in the Albright neighborhood, it popularity spread through- out school district 19 and communities surrounding it. None of us, who lived in this community will forget wonderful pot luck meals we had, nor the enjoyment of these occasions when this club met at different homes in the community. Information included in this 50th anniversary follow as copied from the Flagler News. "The first record found ofthe Ladies Social Circle was dated February 25, 1915. This meeting was held at the home of Mrs. Sam Sloan. "It was voted to limit the club to 20 members and Mrs. Adam Pfiester was taken in as a member," were contents of first minutes. On April 15, 1915, the club met with Mrs. Melvina Brisbin. It was voted to put the club money in the bank on a certificate bearing 4 percent interest. Mrs. McDonald became a new member. At the next meeting in May, each member contributed to make up the cost of funeral flowers for one of their group, Mrs. Wickham, who was the daughter of Mrs. Brisbin. Irene Wickham, who is now Mrs. AIjy Stinton and Mrs. Wilson were voted in as new members. Mrs. Ackerman as appointed to buy flowers for sick members of the "Albright" community and Mrs. Strong for the "Sunny Side" area. It was voted to open membership to more ladies and to raise dues to 25 cents per year to be held in the treasury for an emergency fund. The dues remained at this figure until 1954. It is possible that the group had organized in August, 1914, held at the home of Mrs. Sexton. Those elected were Mrs. Tom Lewin as president, Mrs. Ackerman as vice president, Mrs. Art Strong (sister of Flo Baxter), secretary and Mrs. J.B. West as treasurer. The roll that year included Mrs. Albert Ackerman, Mrs. Melvina Brisbin (Bill Wickham's grandmother), Mrs. O.C. Cristopher, (Mrs. Sutton's mother), Mrs. Fred Cristopher (son of O.C.), Mrs. W. Davenport, Mrs. Claude Ervin, Mrs. Will Grove, Mrs. Anna Holson, Mrs. Hemerick, Mrs. Clyde McDonald, Mrs. E.S. McDonald, Mrs. Adaline A. Newby, Mrs. Adam Pfiester, Mrs. Emma Reade, Mrs. E. Reiger, Mrs. Richmond, Mrs. Sexton, Mrs. Sam Sloan, Mrs. Robert Stinton, Mrs. Sol Stone, Mrs. Art Strong, Mrs. Emma Sutton, Mrs. Schmidt, Mrs. B. F. Smith, Mrs. Emma Verhoeff, Mrs. Frank Wilson, Mrs. J.B. West, Mrs. Clarence West, Mrs. Susie Wickhe'n and Irene Wickham. It was about this time, black and white marbles were purchased for casting votes for new members, that members suggested and the president requested the secretary to keep and read minutes of all meetings, that work 1986, Zion celebrated with greatjoy seventy- five years of God's grace in Word and sacrament, under the theme "Rejoice in the Lord Always!" Former pastors Paul H. Scheer and John B. Luttman preached to large crowds in the Sunday morning and afternoon services, and Holy Communion was celebrated in the morning. As the congregation reached its three- quarter century mark, it numbered 134 -4: ,l t,] baptized members and 97 communing (con- firmed) members. Officers as 1988 begins are: LaVern Einspahr, president; Dovi Beal, secretary; Agnes Otteman, treasurer; Opal Einspahr, financial secretary. Serving on the board of elders are David Edwards, Mark Otteman and Jerry Guy. Trustees are Laurel Niemann, Connie Stone and Keith Einspahr. Sunday school superintendent is Debra Stone. To God alone be all the glorY! r.l11l:i,lir,. Pastors TYho Have Served Zion, 1911 - 1988 H. Stegemann - 1911-1913; F. Bernard Bierwagen - 1914-1927; Paul H. Scheer - 1928-1934; Norman Heimsoth - 1935; Herman C. Loesel - 1936-1942; Herman H. Heine Ladies Social Circle, 1940: Front row: Bess Short, Bess Jones, Gertrude Storrs, Sue Zebaugh, Ruth Short, MArtha Price, Ina Conarty. Middle row: Lorris Wickhnm, Irene Jones, Minta Goodwin, Minnie Blanken, Elizabeth Verhoeff Wood, Donna Verhoeff Irwin, Diana McCart, Carrie Baldwin, Zola Short. Back row: Florence Newton. Minerva Stone, Ida Rowland, Ethel McConnell, Ella Radebaugh. �done for the hostess was quite often sewing Canie Baldwin, Zola Short, Florence carpet rags, making aprons, making "waists" for boys in the family and dresses for girls, gowns and skirts or making quilt tops. "It is to be understood that members bring work of their own to meetings, then when our hostess'work is finished, or ifshe should have nothing for us to do, we need not be thinking of the old proverb of Satan and the idle hands." At each meeting, members enjoyed Newton, Minerva Stone, Ida Rowland, Ethel McConnel and Ella Radebaugh. A great deal of history of the community south ofFlagler is contained in the carefully written record of L.S.C. history. Thankfully, names and dates were included in some cases. It is commendable such a record was written. News Items found in early Flagler News editions give some clue to persons residing in musical selections by one of the group such as Edith Ervin at the piano or Mrs. Strong the community, concerning LSC meetings and activities. Leading dates are of Flagler with instrumental music. November 2, 1916, L.S.C. met at the home of Mrs. Anna Rose Wickham. Ladies from Flagler attended in the interest of the W.C.T.U. hoping to institute a new chapter. Present were Mrs. W.H. Lavington, Mrs. H.L. Williams (Marion Williams'mother), Mrs. Heiserman, Mrs. Langcamp, Mrs. Traw, Mrs. Anderson (Winnie Walker's mother), Mrs. Mullen, Mr. and Mrs. W. L. Price and children, Mrs. Reece, Mrs. Frank Miner and Rev. Marquardt. The climax of a wolf hunt interrupted one meeting when the men folks brought in two wolves. Some thought was given to changing the club to a Red Cross Chapter but was later abandoned and the club remained the same. The club sponsored bake sales, bazaals, oyster suppers, and in 1919, Mrs. Sprague from Burlington taught a class in nursing at the meetings. Enrolled were Ina, Irma and Opal Conarty, Effie Eaton, Roxie Grove, Florence Newton, Mable McDonald, Sue Pfiester, Rose and Zelia Stone, Jennie Sex- ton, Etta Smith, Maggie Stinton, Flora Strode, Susie Zebaugh and Daisy Vawter. Their final examination was March 17, L921. Attendance at meetings dwindled because of the influenza epidemic. Mrs. Ploper, a member and her daughter, Gladys were taken by the disease and the L.S.C. mended and made clothing for the family. This type service was done for the Wickham family when both Susie and Mrs. Anna Rose Wickhn- died, for the Hamilton family, Leo Gant and Frank Matzke families and others. Mrs. Alexander demonstrated culling chickens for increased egg production; a demonstration also was given in hat making and in making dress forms. There were wedding and stork showers. When a member moved away, they held a surprise party for her and her family, presenting her with a gift. In later years, if a member moved outside the boundary lines, returned to the community, then moved away again, she was not presented with another gift, there were other difficulties as usual with by-laws. When Mr. and Mrs. Sexton celebrated their golden wedding anniversary the club had a surprise party and presented them with a $5.00 gold piece. During the early'20's, the members embroidered their names on quilt blocks, one for eachmember. Theypieced and quilted a quilt for each member. Mrs. Robert Stinton still has hers." A picture accompanied the above article, taken in 1948. It included the following members of that time: Bess Short, Bess Jones, Gertrude Storrs, Sue Zebaugh, Ruth Short, Rose Stone, Martha Price, Ina Conarty, Loris Wickham, Irene Jones, Minta Goodwin, Minnie Blanken, Elizabeth Ver- hoeff, Donna Verhoeff, Diana Mc Cart, News issues. March 1916. Mesdams. J.H. Reade. Adam Phiester, W.Y. Grove, W.I. Sutton and daughters, Guy McDonald and son and Mrs. John Thompson were among those attending the Social Circle at Mrs. McDonalds in Flagler. Mrs. Fred Matz was voted in as a member. A News item dated Feb. 9, 1925, "L.S.C. Club Notes" is interesting. "Mrs. Sol Stone was hostess to the LSC Club Thursday. The club's first meeting since November 20th. Fourteen members and three visitors were present. The time was spent socially. Mrs. Cary was made a member of the club. The next meeting will be with Mrs. W.F. Stone, Feb. 19th. The entertaining program was especially enjoyable at the last meeting. Little Edith Fogg spoke several pieces and her mother, Mrs. Fogg's rendering of "The Madman" held the audience in awe at the moved to the Wheeler place, Chet and Maurine Wold moved to the old W.H. Lavington ranch. Zenelda and Maurine joi- ned LSC. Zenelda remembered drawing names for "peanut sisters," a method of gift giving to one another through the year, keeping names secret. Names of members were place inside peanut shells and these peanuts were drawn from a container. Through the year at special occasions, gifts were exchanged using the name found inside the peanut shell. Mrs. Joe McCart was Zenelda's peanut sister and she remembered giving her a beautiful pair of hand made pillow cases. Zenelda said at Christmas time they sent money to service boys in WWII. She said, "Van Goodwin's had the most boys in service, a total of five." As years passed, membership dwindled. This closely matched attendance at many country schools. Although an actual ending of LSC is not known by this writer, it is possible meetings continued on after the consolidation moves of the early 1950s. Certainly, memories of these very special club meetings, often the climax of entertainment for some in the community, will never be forgotten. In those days of short funds, dust storms and dry weather, it was no doubt the only anticipated enjoyment of the time. by Lyle W. Stone anticipation of the awful tragedy to be enacted, when it turned out he was only going to shave himself. Members are kindly requested to either bring to next meeting or sent to the secretary, the finished quilt blocks for Mrs. Sexton. Mrs. D. R. Zebaugh, Secretary. March, 1925, the LSC Club met with Mrs. George Vike. Thirteen members were present. A delicious dinner was served at noon. Three new members were taken in. Next meeting will be held a the home of Mrs. Wm Wickham on April 2nd. April, 1925. "The LSC was delightfully entertained at the home of Mrs. Walter Palmer Thursday, Fourteen members were present. Mrs. Ellsworth read a selection. The next meeting will be with Mrs. Mahoney June 4th when mesdames Gaines, Griffith and Lana will be on the progr4m. June, 1925, "Mrs. Mahoney was hostess at LSC Club Thursday. Thirteen members responded to roll call. Two guests were present. A good social time was enjoyed by all. Mrs. Lana read on household hints and jokes. Mrs. Gaines propounded a riddle. Opal Conarty gave a humorous recitation. Next meeting will be with Mrs. B.H. Short, June t8th. Mesdames McDonald, F. Newton, R. Newton and Pettis will be speakers of the day." June, 1925, "Mrs. B.H. Short was hostess to the LSC Club Thursday with eighteen members and five visitors present. A good social time was enjoyed while tying a comfort for the hostess. The next meeting will be with Mrs. Joe Short Thursday, July 2. The program was good and consisted of a song entitled, "Always Picking On Me," sung by Mrs. Fogg. Recitations: "The Blacksmiths' Story," by Mrs. Pettis and "St. Peter At The Gate," by Mrs. Floyd NewCon. A chorus of girls sang "Colorado" and "Catry Me Back To Old Virginny." Mesdames, Pheister, Reavis and Short have charge of the next meeting. In the early 1940's, Jack and Zenelda Heid FLAGLER AND ARRIBA - FLAGLER SCHOOL T327 Just less than a block south and a few feet east ofthe present new school building is the site of the first school house in the Flagler community. It was a "soddie" built as a place to provide an education for children of the new settlement. School was taught in this building by a young teacher, Miss Crofteri, daughter of one of the homesteaders in the area. From sod to steel, brick and concrete is a period now nearing 100 years. In fact, in the fall of this year, 1988, this centennial milestone will have been crossed. One of the first buildings in the new settlement was a church at the corner of 5th and Loveland streets, later belonging to C.M. Smith. This building was built about 1890 for use as a Congregational Church. The school was moved from the soddie to the new church building where it remained until 1893, when a frame grade school building was finished. By this time, eight grades were taught and the first eighth grade class was graduated in 1895. A recognized course of study had been introduced in the school by Mrs. Charlotte (Rose) Godsman, making that class the first eighth grade class to graduate in Kit Carson County under such a requirement. Mrs. Godsman was then hired as principal in the Burlington school to establish this course of study there. The community grew and high school grades were added, making it necessary to utilize another building, this being one on Main Street last used by Charles Jackson for a grocery store, (previously a mortuary). In 1915, much effort was expended in trying to consolidate districts; apparently these were �partially successful, and paved the way for a bonding election to allow building a new school building at the north end of Main Avenue. All this occurred in 1915 and this year, a new brick building was constructed. One architect for the building was H.L. Manning of Denver. In early 1916 the entire school of twelve grades was moved into what was considered the finest school building in this part of the state. In May of 1916 Flagler school graduated its first high school seniors. The process of growth had not stopped, however, and by 1920 the new building was becoming overcrowded. In 1921 twenty seniors were graduated, a larger class than any graduated after L942. By 1926 the situation Most every one would wish to return to former conditions, but it is a reality of our time. It is possible the pendulum could swing, as it has so many times in history and conditions will change. Our school is now known as Arriba-Flagler School. Our school is now at a point in time when years of work in education of students has nearly reached a sum of 100 years in the Flagler community and very near this milestone in the Arriba community. It should be a time for some celebration, a time for looking at history and recording it, and a time to look ahead, hopeful of the future. The August Klute farm northeast of Flagler. by Lyle W. Stone of overcrowding demanded a remedy. Very reluctantly, the school officials re-acquired the old 1893 frame building and installed the lower four grades there. Since then, depression and war prevented any changes in that stop-gap arrangement. FLAGLER FARMS T328 During the war-time half of the 1940s it became apparent Flagler schools would have to provide a new building for the lower six grades and that a new gym would have to be built. Shortly after the end of the war, a new and larger school district was organized through consolidation mandated by the state. Construction materials again became available, and the district approved a $2235,000.00 bond issue to finance the long overdue , .18 The old Crystal Springs Ranch east of Flagler. 'rf improvements. Meanwhile the Flagler American Legion built a new gymnasium which it leased to the school. Strangely, the long struggle to build a school adequate for needs of the community was not destined to end. In 1950, [tigation was commenced which questioned the validity of the law which the new Flagler school district was organized. This made it impossible to sell bonds previously voted. The final blow came in October of 1951 when the old brick building was gutted by fire. Unable to raise money by means of a bond issue and without a single adequate classroom, people of the community loaned the school district funds necessary to construct the present twelve-grade building. In the meantime, the school conducted classes in the American Legion building and in a church basement. In the fall of 1952 Flagler school was once again in adequate quarters. The Flagler School Annex was erected in 1964-65. Since that time an indoor swimming pool has been added, enhancing swimming abilities of students of the area. A remodeling program hinged on conservation of fuel, involving changing windows, adding insulation and carpeting floors has been successful, W.R. Heiserman Ranch near Flagler. Hard times and dust bowls days, 1929-30, to survive many used cow chips for fuel. HAL BORLAND 1915-16. A dwindling number of students was apparent in the 1970s and 80s. This loss of students is caused in part by a swing in agriculture to larger acreage and bigger equipment per operator, reducing the number of families who can live on the land in the district. This phenomena might be traced also to lower prices, but greater surplusses, rather a controversial situation. In the 1970s and '80s, a reduction of school students became so acute, since state funds are based on this number, additional consolidations were necessary. In the fall of 1984 consolidation of Arriba schools and Flagler schools was made to increase the number of students attending one school. This move is the result of economic conditions of our country. It is sad to experience losses of community facilities. T329 Farmstead of Henry Kleiwer northeast of Flagler, H.E. Rice homestead west of Flasler. Hal Borland was born May 4, 1900, at Sterling, Nebr., the only son of Will A. and Sarah Borland, and moved with his parents in 1910 to a homestead about thirty miles south ofBrush, Colorado. In 1915, his father bought one of the two small newspapers in Flagler, The Flagler Neus and the family moved here. From then on, Hal became involved in the printing business and in writing but he had gone through a year of college before he acknowledged that writing was his primary interest. After completing Flagler High School with the class of 1918, he enrolled in the University of Colorado at Boulder. That fall he covered a CU football game for the Denver Post for the regular sports writer from the school and continued covering sports events and writing for the university paper for the two years he attended. He then returned to Flagler for a year where he assisted his parents with The Flagler Nen,s and was correspondent for the Denver newspapers in eastern Colorado in the summer of 1921, he left for New York City and Columbia University in a Model T Ford. He enrolled as a special student at Columbia, �meanwhile working in various news reporting jobs in New York. He worked as a telegraph editor for the United Press, as a reporter for the Brooklyn Standard Union and as an assistant editor at King Features in their syndicated weekly magazine. In 1923, he was graduated from Columbia, and submitted a group of Indian stories to Doubleday, which were accepted. His first book called "Rocky Mountain Tipi Tales" was published early in 1947. After completing the book, Hal "Barnstormed" around the country for awhile, working various lengths of time in a variety of cities, receiving writing and editorial experience. Among the places he worked were: Salt Lake City, Utah; Wells and Carson City, Nevada; Fresno and San Diego, Calif; El Paso and Marshall, Texas; Atlanta, Georgia and Asheville, North Carolina, before returning to New York where he received some public relations experience. During his visit to Colorado, he learned the Stratton Press was for sale and bought it "on a shoestring", thinking he could work four days a week publishing the paper and have three days for writing. However, he soon learned he spent seven days a week on the paper and found no time for writing. So he sold it in the spring of 1926 and moved east with his fanily, settling in Philadelphia where he worked on papers in that city. It was during this period of time, that he began selling fiction. He sold his first short story in a slick paper magazine to the Ladies Home Journalin 1927 and was able to continue with his writing. His two juvenile novels, "Valor" and "Wapiti Pete" were published along with others. In 1937, he was offered a job on the Neu York Times magazine and accepted it working as a reporter which he enjoyed. During World War II, he had opportunities for writing experiences, some he termed painful and some exhilarating. In 1943, he resigned from the New York Times in order to devote his time entirely to writing. His first wife, whom he married in 1923 in New York. died in 1944 and he maried in Denver in 1945 to Barbara Ross Dodge, herself a writer and editor. Hal passed away in Salisbury, Conn. Feb. 22, L978. There is a Hall Borland Memorial Room in the Community Library, of the Town Hall in Flagler, Colorado. First editions of his books, awards, honors, and personal mementoes have been donated by Mrs. Barbara Borland. The Hal Borland Memorial Room was prepared by the Memorial Committee: Alex Creighton, chairman; with the generous support of friends wishing to honor the memory of Hal Borland. FLAGLER AIR DISASTER T330 20 Dead; 30 injured in worst air show accident in U.S. History Crash brings horror to peaceful Flagler as- stunt plane hits crowd at show; 20 dead, 17 hurt small town - are a few stunned by air show tragedy. These of the headlines that appeared in the different papers around the area. On September 15, 1951, what started out to be a gay harvest festival ended in a very tragic event. The sudden spectacular crash brought a tragic climax to what the Flagler Lions Club had planned as an afternoon of fun. William J. Barker, a Denver Post reporter SEIBERT T331 witnessed the sudden, tragic finale to the first air show ever to be staged in Flagler. At 2:40 p.m. by Barker's calculations just as Ruble set his glider down and just before Nelson Stake, manager of the field was to take off in a dive bombing exhibition, Jones buzzed in. He was forty minutes late for a briefing for pilots participating in the show. The briefing was to cover plans and safety procedure. He said Jones flew in from the south low over the crowd at a 45 degree angle trailing smoke from the plane's sky-writing generator. The plane was not more than 200 feet off the ground and upside down. He started to roll over and up . The plane went straight for the mass of shocked human beings standing or sprawling on the field or on their automobile hoods and tops since there were no grandstands. The plane shattered as it hit the First band in Seibert - 1890! ground and tore a swath in the crowd. According to Tom Creighton of Flagler the plane cut across three rows ofparked cars. He said it looked to him like the wheel assembly of the plane hit the first row, the engine the second row, and the tail assembly the third row of cars. The plane, a silver and blue Pimm Tardin Trainer, was completely demolished along with about eight cars. The tremendous force of the impact hurled some of the victims into the air and smashed some against the cars and the ground. Some of the victims were decapitated by the force and the crash area was litered with limbs, blood and flesh. The town's only ambulance was on stand-by duty, but the plane crashed into the ambulance and put it out commission. In the cab of the ambulance was Mrs. Verna Clapp, 30, and Sandra Clapp, 3 years old. Both of them narrowly escaped death. An early day Seibert Establishment! THs Setsenr Srrta BlNx""."" sEEEE.colo . /-2.:-€' l"3!n U" *3'?o-- The following list includes those twenty accident victims: Mrs. Cleve Heid - Flagler; Mrs. Charles Keller and daughter, Zenelda, and son, John - Flagler; Mrs. Ray Thompson - Flagler; Mrs. John Hall - Flagler; Gordon McEathron and sister Bebe - Arriba: James Brandenburg and son - Flagler; Illa Mae Harwood - Flagler; William Hughes - Flagler; Harford Asher - Flagler; Virginia Moss - Flagler; Jean Elizabeth Yocum - Flagler; Mardell Simonis - Flagler; Caroline Selenke - Flagler; Connie Jean Vogel - Flagler; Marlis Stahlecker - Seibert; Lt. Norman Jones - pilot of Denver. Eleven victims were still hospitalized by the next Sunday night and all recovered. The pilot, Norman Jones, violated two rules of the agreement between the CAA and the show's sponsors. The rules were against flying under 500 feet and the other against stunting near the spectators. Although the crash was termed an accident, the Civil Aeronautics Board in Washington blamed the crash on the pilot's "utter Tom Manion's home and garage built in 1915. -::.. - .-.,:.,,,,,.,,, i . r.',. . . disregard" for safety. The report put out by the CAB called Lieutenant Jones maneuver "improperly executed". It said the pilot's recent experience was in bombers and he had no record of small aircraft flying for "considerable time". It also said he did not have military permission to fly the plane. This tragic air accident, which took the lives of several friends and relatives. will never the forgotten. Another garage in Seibert in the 1915-20 period. � https://kccarchives.cvlcollections.org/files/original/16/415/flaglervol10053.jpg 63f3e3b7cb57d4bb7cab1cffa1cd952d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource History of Kit Carson County Description An account of the resource Brief historical stories and elements from the founding and recent history of Kit Carson County, Colorado. Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Book Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Flagler Date Created Date of creation of the resource. 1988 Subject The topic of the resource history Description An account of the resource A record of the history of the Town of Flagler as recorded in the book History of Kit Carson County. Type The nature or genre of the resource text Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Salmons, Janice Hasart, Marlyn Smith, Dorothy Language A language of the resource English Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. History of Kit Carson County Volume 1 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource text/pdf Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Curtis Media Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/</a>