Horse Thieves Part 2 - 1915 Tales From Old Timers #8a –

  In the meantime, Bates heard of the fate of his partner and barricaded himself into an old shack, preparing to resist arrest. After a fierce gun battle, Bates was captured and made prisoner and the camp moved south. Bates was a large man and had the reputation of wearing the largest boots of any man in the settlement. A few months later a pair of size 12 boots was found in Snake Creek. The assumption was made that Bates and Ravenwood met the fate of all horse thieves who were caught with the goods.

Mr. A. McDonald settled in Minot in 1884 and was appointed Deputy Sheriff under Sheriff Coleman in 1887. His duty was to transport prisoners to Burlington and lodge them in the county jail. They were transported in an open wagon and a pair of horses. Only the worst characters were handled in this manner. Of course they did have an armed escort also 

Horse Thieves – Part 1 - 1915 Tales From Old Timers

 As in all western states, horse stealing was a crime punishable by death. Since it was a profitable business, many people took “chances”. Some fell by the wayside while others came through without a scratch, and went on to become prosperous and well respected citizens. Two individuals, Ravenwood and Bates were part of a band of reckless outlaws who invaded eastern Montana and western North Dakota. In 1885 the two men arrived in the settlement with several head of horses and went to work for J.L. Colton. All was well until a party of 16 men and 32 horses arrived from the west and camped just below Jim Johnson’s farm. Word circulated that they were trading so Ravenwood and the blacksmith, McDonald, went to the camp to make a trade. When they saw the brand on his horse he was ordered to throw up his hands and he was made prisoner. The group was a Vigilante Committee and then went after Bates. …. To be continued

1915 Sponsors From The Old Timers –

Vaulker’s Minot Greenhouse – The “Florist” to their highnesses, the Old Settlers. “Buy your flowers from the largest floral company west of Milwaukee. .. 

Larson & Co. – General Merchants – They carried high grade groceries, dry goods, shoes and men’s furnishings. They paid the highest prices for produce. 

A E Boynton – Harley Davidson Agent – The motorcycle making the Minot to San Francisco trip (handing out the history books) was purchased from this company. 

Western Realty Company – Offices in Minot, Plaza and Glasgow, Mt. – “Buy Land – the world’s best asset” … None better than the Mouse River Loop.

Enforcing the Law – 1915 Tales From Old Timers #7 Part 2

–  Few serious crimes were committed that the perpetrators did not receive their just rewards. The settlers, in many cases, would take the law into their own hands. A certain farmer named Bailey, living near Minot, became envious of the worldly possessions of his neighbor, Woodruff. Woodruff was considered a wealthy man and also had a wife. Bailey decided the easiest and quickest way out the situation was to remove Woodruff, which he did. He then appropriated his neighbor’s wealth, including the wife, and attempted to leave the country. He was followed and shot by another farmer while crossing the Mouse River on a raft

Enforcing the Law in the Early Days – 1915 Tales From Old Timers #7 –

 One of the toughest men of his time was Hennessey, a bully feared by all, and afraid of no man. When arrested for stealing a watch, he was arraigned before Justice of the Peace O’Rourke. He was ordered by the court to lay aside his weapons. He refused so the Judge gave instructions to the Chief Morrison to disarm the prisoner or he would have to adjourn court. Hennessy, the prisoner said, “Very well, court is adjourned” and calmly walked out of the courtroom. In spite of the lawless element that always invades a new territory, women were perfectly safe. The toughest character would show respect and chivalry for members of the opposite sex.

Businesses in 1915

1915 Sponsors From The Tales From The Old Timers – 

- New York Hardware & Furniture Store – Carried a full line of carpets, Linoleum, furniture, hardware, paints, oils, etc. 

- H R Larsen – Merchant and tailor – Designers and Tailors of Ladies and Gents Suits – all kinds of fur work. – repairing, cleaning and pressing.. 

- Wood and Wood – Licensed Practioners- Pioneer Chropracters and Electric Light Baths – in the Brauer Block in Minot… 

-Bush’s Garage and Repair Shop … Located at 112 3^rd Ave – Work Right when Finished and Ready When Promised….. 

- Minot Drug Co. -- Located at 30 South Main – Items available included drugs, drug sundries, Kodaks, Edison Talking Machines, Victor Victrolias, stationary, cigars and soda.

Minot’s First Murder – 1915 Tales From Old Timers #6 –

Whilst today (1915) Minot is to all intents a “Dry Town”, in the early days of construction the sale of liquor was conducted openly and on an extensive scale. Every third building is said to have been a saloon and at one time no less than 27 saloons existed in a community of 500 people. The winters were very severe and early settlers had great difficulties to contend with. Crap shooting, shell games, rolette, faro, chuck-a-luck and other gambling games were going strong every hour of the day and night. Minot never went to sleep. Soap men, tin-horn, gamblers and desperados found this country profitable territory. One of the most notorious killing episodes in the early days was when Roxie Queal shot and killed Shang Foster in the White Elephant Saloon (Jack Doyle’s Saloon) during a gambling argument.

A Brave Marshall – 1915 Tales From Old Timers #5 –

 During O’Rourke’s term in office there is an interesting story about an individual named Morrison, who held the combined offices of Chief of Police, Sergeant ad Constable. He was of unusual height and Proportions. He was 6 feet 8 inches tall in his bare feet (he never wore stockings) and weighed only 118 pounds. His ludicrous appearance was emphasized by his clothes which were too small for him and his very large boots. One day a free for all fight broke out on Main Street. Morrison attempted to restore order and someone struck him a severe blow. This angered Chief Morrison so much that he left the fight and started a hasty retreat up South Hill. When told there was a fight down town and his presence might be needed he replied… “No, they struck the majesty of the law and I quit!!”

1915 Sponsors – Tales From the Old Timers –

The Rural Messenger – Published weekly in the interests of the Farmers of Ward and adjoining counties. $1.00 a year to subscribe. They also printed everything from cards to books. H W Gillespie – Dray Line – Dealer in Hay, wood and the best Noonan Coal. Robert S Gillespie – General insurance and a house rental agency in Minot … Dr. C C Nugent – Dentist – located in the Fair Block ….Skrivseth’s Studio – Photographer located in the Second National Bank Building. – Scofield Livery Stable – 120 First Street South East (now Central Avenue) Day and night service … Thatcher – Wysong Company – commercial printers and office outfitters – They Always Hurry – Charles Gordon – General agent for Scandia Life Insurance Co. 

1915 Tales From Old Timers #4 – A Timid Justice of the Peace –

This Minot Memory on Saturday is for Monday, January 18th as I will not be at work that day

If a citizen was generally disliked, not effort eo disguise the fact was made, as in the case of one Justice of the Peace O’Rourke. This man was by no means popular, and a silent vote was passed to rid the community of his presence. O’Rourke was of a timid disposition, a fatal thing in those days. Although he was mortally afraid of firearms, as a protection he carried a rifle with him at all times night and day. A small whiskey keg was filled with gunpowder and placed under his residence as a gentle reminder that he was not needed. Although the bomb failed to explode, the scare was sufficient enough to cause O’Rourke to look for a new home. Shortly afterwards he left the district. Although unpopular O’Rourke held the office for many years.

1915 Tales From Old Timers #3a –

 Churches were not as plentiful in those days and services were often held at unusual places. A certain Methodist preacher came to town and wanted to hold services in one of the saloons. Someone named Jack Ware promised to make all the necessary arrangements. On the appointed day, the preacher arrived at the saloon and inquired of the proprietor if he could hold the service. “Sure” replied the saloon keeper, “ yer kin preach here, mister sky pilot, providing yer don’t disturb the poker game that’s agoing on”

1915 Sponsors #2 & 3 – Tales From Old Timers – West Hotel – 126 First Ave Southeast – Rates 50 cents and 75 cents …. Phone 506 Blue ….. A E Boynton – Harley Davidson Agent …. Campbell Mercantile Co. .. Dealers in Quality Groceries, Crockery, and Household Necessities…. Foster & Connolly Plumbing and Heating…Repair work a specialty and estimates furnished on request. R W Duvall – exclusive leather goods store – trunks, bags, suitcases and Harness. Specialty Sales Co. – sales agents for the world’s best lines of specialties. W R Lemonnier – farm lands and city property … loans rentals and general insurance located in the Brauer Block in Minot.  E H Boyer – Clothing and furnishings for men and boys.

1915 Tales From Old Timers #3 – Sports –

 Large bands of horses and cattle bound for the Eastern Markets would pass through Minot every year. The peaceful city became the scene of many a cowboy brawl. Horse racing, bronco busting and gambling were the main forms of entertainment. Friendly competitions and all personal disputes were usually settled on the main thoroughfare. In the rear of the where the Scofield Block is was a huge corral. As late as 1900 it was used as an exhibition ground. Cowboys and settlers would congregate in the evening when bronco busting and other sports were indulged in much to the amusement of the gathered crowd. One of the more prominent “punchers” at the time was a well known Minot man named Jack Nichols

This may have been the corral mentioned above

1915 Tales From Old Timers #2 –

 Up until 1885 the only form of government was a Vigilante Committee. In 1885 the settlement began to assume some importance so they decided to elect a Sheriff to preserve law and order. That election took place in a barnyard at Burlington which wasthe county seat at that time. There were two applicants for the position. Amos Tracy was the favorite and elected unanimously. His competitor disputed the validity of the election on the grounds of miscount and even attempted to prove he was the better man by physical force. The case was taken to court, but by the time his charge was upheld, Tracey’s term had expired. This was probably the first instance of political influence in Minot.

While the sportsmen of 1915 had to be satisfied with Prairie Chickens and other small game, in the early days, deer, antelope and buffalo were plentiful and formed the chief source of fresh meat.

Tales From the Old Timers

1915 – Tales From Old Timers 1a-- from the Independent in July 1915 The North American Publicity Bureau has just issued a very unique booklet, "Tales from Old Timers," dealing with the early comic history of Minot, together with some facts concerning the city as it is today , (1915 ). The cartoons were drawn by H. J. Linney, who has displayed unusual ability. Associated with Mr. Linney is T. S. Kipping, who had charge of the descriptive matter and the advertising. Many of the business and professional men are represented in the advertising columns. Many of these books will be distributed between Minot and San Francisco. Mr. Kipping and a partner will leave in ten days for the west by motorcycle, stopping enroute, to dispose of these books.

1915 Sponsors #1 – Tales From Old Timers Russel Miller Milling Co – The “Occident” Guarantee – Buy a sack of “Occident” flour and make as many bakings as you wish. If you are not satisfied that it is better than any other flour you have ever used, return the sack or unused flour and Get Your Money Back!!.. Cost more --- Worth it! ….. LC Smith & Brothers Typewriter Co. – Featuring LC Smith Typewriters with Ball Bearings … a longer lasting machine …. Rental and second hand machines available.

Inside front cover of book

1915 Minot History - Story 1

From the 1915 History of Minot

Minot is a thriving city of 10,000 population, situated in the beautiful Mouse River valley, surrounded by fertile farming country and the center of the greatest grain producing country in the United States. 

In the early days, before the advent of the railroads, a few hardy and courageous settlers found their way into the Mouse River country. It was in 1883 that people really began to settle in and around the present site of MInot. The nearest railroad center was Bismarck, 120 miles to the south. Small bands of Indians journeying from the Turtle Mountains to the Berthold Reservation would stop and make their encampment on what is now the site of the new Federal Post Office (the Federal Building on 1st Street and 1st Avenue SW). This led to an Indian Trading post and Government Agency. for many years the main industry was trading with the Indians. This was before North and South Dakota became separate states. The two combined were known as the Dakota Territory.

The Picture with this story

Next Week - Back to 1915

I was able to procure a comical history of Minot written in 1915. Starting next week I will be using that for the source of Minot Memories. It is interesting to say the least

Back in the “old days” many grocery stores offered full sets of dishes or a “Kitchen Ensemble” for only low prices per piece with every $3.00 you spent on groceries…  in 1970, the three Piggly Wiggly stores offered Anchor Hocking  Fire King dishes. Each week you were offered a different serving piece for the low price of 99 cents. Some of the other specials included completer pieces like 5 inch cereal bowls – 4 for 99 cents ….. 1 to 3 pound canisters ranged 99 cents to $1.39 …. Of course the most popular color at that time was “Avocado”. At that time Piggly Wiggly had three locations … Town & Country Shopping Center,… Oak Park Shopping Center and Highway 2 East (across from the Fair Grounds)

Past News Events

1944 – Police Magistrate Court – In the Police Magistrate Court a total of 1,031 cases were tried compared to 896 cases the year before. 862 cases for drunkedness, 29 cases for vagrancy and 140 cases for “Other” charges. A total of $8,866.15 was collected by the court. Of that $3,683.00 was for fines of various types.

 July 1972 -- Top stories on the front page of the newspaper…. The US Senate voted to increase the hourly minimum wage to $2.20 which would give much bigger paychecks to many people however the House wanted a minimum wage of $2.00 per hour  ….. Speed Limits were being painted on some streets in addition to the standard metallic signs….. the State Fair attendance had surpassed 100,000

Mercy Hospital

In 1935 Minot’s Mercy Hospital was located at 505 9^th Avenue NW. The phone number was 114 and the resident surgeon was Dr. E. C. Stone. The first appendectomy performed was in a sod house in 1905. Mercy Hospital was regarded as a modern hospital that offered facilities equal to the best in the land. The patients received necessary care from doctor and registered nurses at a minimum expense. From June 1, 1934 to Jun 1, 1935, 697 surgical operations were performed at Minot’s Mercy Hospital. In addition to that, 536 medical cases were done during the same period. The total number of patients cared for was 1233. Prior to moving to the location on 9^th St. NW. Mercy Hospital was located on Main Street in Downtown Minot.

SS Minot Victory Ship

 Victory Ships were a type of cargo ship which were mass-produced in the United States during World War II.  They Victory Ships were part of the Merchant Marine. The United States Merchant Marine transports goods and services in wartime as an auxiliary to the U.S. Navy.  During military conflicts, the Merchant Marine operated civilian-owned merchant ships as well as vessels maintained through government entities like the Military Sea Transportation Service or Military Sealift Command.    The S.S. Minot was launched on October 7, 1944.  The Victory ships were predominantly cargo vessels but they were armed. On April 11, 1945, a fleet of 15 merchant ships arrived at Okinawa, the USS Minot was one of these. On April 12, the USS Minot brought down a Japanese plane which had strafed the ship. The plane crashed into her No. 4 kingpost wounding 5 seamen.

Apparently in May of 1967 the USS Minot ran aground on a coral reef the in the Paracel Islands off the coast of Vietnam. This was about 240 miles northeast of Danang. She was carrying 6000 tons of machinery and supplies for the military forces in Vietnam. After  7 days of offloading much of the freight the Minot was floated and with help of tugs pulled off the reef and with an escort was able to continue the journey to Danang. The damage to the hull was minimal. 

Communicable Disease Control – 1944

 Home visits by health authorities numbered 3,027 because of communicable diseases. The visits were to make sure that homes were properly quarantined, that sick family members were receiving proper care, that a family member was taught to care for the sick and non-infected family members were protected. In a 3 month period in 64 cases of diptheria were reported in Minot and 48 carriers were found. Diptheria was an acute, highly contagious bacterial disease causing inflammation of the mucous membranes, formation of a false membrane in the throat that hinders breathing and swallowing, and potentially fatal heart and nerve damage by a bacterial toxin in the blood. It is now rare in developed countries because of immunization. The outbreak of Diptheria stimulated an immunization program. As many as 600 people a day were vaccinated.   Also about 140 cases of Scarlet fever were reported throughout the year.