• back to Colorado •
Concerning the DeCoursey, Kilduff and Bishop Families.
1875 - 1883
The following are excerpts mainly from The Fairplay Flume, a weekly newspaper of Fairplay, Park County, Colorado. It began publication in 1879, and was published on Thursdays until about 1895, thereafter on Fridays. The nearby town of Alma was the home of Edwin E. and Mary (McCormick) DeCoursey and Edward and Frances "Fanny" (McCormick) Kilduff. Edward and Fanny ran the St. Nicholas Hotel there. Edward's brother Thomas was also a fairly well-known figure in the area, although he later relocated to Rio Blanco County. The McCormicks and the Kilduffs were from neighboring towns in Sullivan County, Pennsylvania. Edward Kilduff came to Colorado in 1871, and was married to Frances in Quartzville, Park County in 1872. Edwin left Leavenworth, Kansas for Colorado about 1879. Several Kilduff and McCormick siblings also spent time in Colorado.
I have included just about every DeCoursey, Kilduff, Bishop and St. Nicholas Hotel mention I could find, as well as several of Felix McLaughlin, Ed DeCoursey's mining friend, and mentions of the mines they were working. I have also included items of historical/contextual interest and things I just found amusing. For more on the DeCourseys' time in Colorado, see "Edwin E. DeCoursey" and the 1952 biography of his son James H.
Those who wish to view the actual newspapers may do so at Colorado's Historic Newspaper Collection, an ongoing project that is really wonderful. The site contains actual images of newspapers from all over Colorado for the time period of 1859 to the 1920's.
Fairplay is the county seat of Park County. It is located approximately 9 km (5.5 miles) southeast of Alma.
Note: Unless stated otherwise, all articles and excerpts are from The Fairplay Flume.
Go to: 1875 1877 1879 1880 1881 1882 1883
1875
Rocky Mountain News (Denver, Colorado)
June 27, 1875. p. 3
| ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOTEL,
Alma, Colorado. KILLDUF & COOLBAUGH, Proprietors First-class in every respect. Charges reasonable. |
 |
[This ad also runs in the paper on July 25, 1875. p. 3. This Kilduff is probably Edward, as Thomas didn't come to Colorado until 1875.]
1877
Colorado Weekly Chieftan (Pueblo, Pueblo, Colorado)
November 28, 1877. p. 2
[This is a long article but I thought it did a fairly good job of describing the place and times, its propaganda-ish nature aside.]
The Towns of Fairplay and Alma.
Gulch Mining - The Moose and Dolly Varden Mines.
Business-Personals-The D. & S. P. Stage Line and Railroad.
(From Our Own Correspondent.)
DENVER, October 25-On a Monday morning in the midst of a driving snow storm I took a seat in one of the mountain buggies of Mr. McLaughlin, of Fairplay, and bid good by to Oro and Leadville and my numerous friends in California Gulch, and struck out for Fairplay.
The craft was steered by Mr. York, a trusty and experienced driver, and we made as good time as possible for heavy roads. We did not follow the stage route, but went the toll road which crosses from the Arkansas to the South Park, above timber line. The grade is an easy one and it is only about half as far as the stage road. It was built last year, and the St. Louis smelting company, or at least Mr. Meyer of that company, is interested in the road. A daily mail will be put on between Fairplay and Oro, to go by the road, in the spring. A present the gulch only has a tri-weekly mail. Since Governor Routt has become extensively interested in the gulch he will not let the department rest till the have a daily mail service to Leadville and Oro.
We encountered several inches of snow in the pass, but it was still deeper in the park and the weather got cold by night. I reached Fairplay at eight o'clock that night, as near frozen as I ever care to be. Tom Killduf, who keeps the Fairplay hotel, did his level best to thaw me out that night, but only made a partial success of it. Tom is an eligible and good looking bachelor, but he does know how to keep hotel. His sister manages the interior arrangements, and all traveler bear testimony to the fast that it is one of the best hotels in any of the mountain towns. The beds are soft and clean, and the cooking is all that the most fastidious can wish for. His house is only equaled by the St. Nicholas, kept by his brother, E. D. Killduf, in Alma. Both houses have the bulk of the business that goes to these towns.
The livery stable of Mr. McLaughlin is one of the best and largest in the interior of the state, and is doing fine business to the mines in the vicinity and California gulch. A 'bus is run by Mac from Fairplay to Alma and return twice a day, and it is doing an excellent business. The distance is six miles and it runs through in about an hour.
Gulch mining has been going on actively in the river at Fairplay and all the way up for some distance beyond Alma this season, and everybody has done well. The firm of Mills & Hodge, right across from Alma, have been the most extensive operators, and they are well satisfied with the season's work. They have some of the best ground on the Platte, and have large and rich diggings on the Blue river, across the range in Summit county.
The smelting works at Dudley and Alma have made a good season's work of it and are still going full blast. The former is supplied by the Moose mine, to which company it belongs, and the latter works ores from the various mines, but gets its chief supplies from the Dolly Varden, which is showing up to be one of the richest and most productive silver mines in the state. Only the low grade ore is sold here, they sell their best ore to the St. Louis smelting company, who keep a purchaser at Alma. The best ore in the Dolly Varden runs as high as 808 ounces of silver per ton, and the average this season has been about 350 per ton. They have been taking out during the season about fifteen tons a week. Cy. Hall and George Brunt are the lucky owners of this rich bonanza, which keeps getting richer the further it is developed. Mr. Brunt is east at present and Mr. Hall is in charge of the mine. He has other large interests in this locality and is one of the leading cattle men in South Park.
The Kansas mine, of which my old friend A. J. Shellhammer is one of the principal owners, is also making a splendid show this season.
I visited the office of the Mt. Lincoln News and found the editor, Mr. F. Hogan, busy on his next shot at Dick Allen. Hogan is a genial cuss and makes a live paper of the News. His paper has a good circulation in Park, Lake and Summit counties, and he is happy. Just now him and Dick Allen are indulging in a little pastime calling each other all the names they can conjure up from the Billingsgate dictionary, but it is their own fight, and like the war between the Turks and Russians, I suppose it must be fit out.
The only general store in Alma at present is kept by that popular merchant Hon. James Moynahan. There is no airs nor style about Jim, but he knows how to sell goods and satisfy his customers. He made a good record last winter as one of the working members of the senate. He keeps a big stock and enjoys a fine trade.
Next door to Moynahan's is the large billiard hall and saloon of M. McDonald. Mac is an old timer and has hosts of friends in the mountains. He is a fine-hearted jolly old boy and cannot help being popular. His brother Dan, a boy of the same sort, is helping him in the saloon.
Next to the saloon is the large blacksmith shop of W. C. Stedly, one of the most intelligent citizens and best mechanics of this vicinity. He has all and more work than he can get away with and is getting along finely.
Across the street further up is the Diamond saloon, kept by Mr. James Currier, one of the best known men in these diggings. His place was crowded with business when I was in Alma. His saloon occupies the corner of Buckskin and Main streets.
The Rocky Mountain Hotel, the largest public house in the place, is in the same locality and kept by Mr. John Pearson, a gentleman well known in these parts.
While in the city I visited the art gallery of Mr. D. B. Chase, one of the best photographers in the state. He is a son of John Chase, the Pueblo photographer, and has made a fine summer's campaign in the mountains.
I met in Alma Judge S. D. Webster, a well known citizen and one of the heavy cattle dealers of Park county. The judge is an old friend and constant reader of the CHIEFTAN.
I also made the acquaintance of Mr. Nat Caption, of the Moose mine, and found him an affable and agreeable gentleman.
According to the Fairplay Sentinel the Moose mine took out thirty-eight tons of ore from October 1st to the 14th, worth $52,300. The Alma News says the Mount King has been bonded for one year for $25,000. It has shown mill returns as high as five hundred ounces per ton. The Security and Good Samaritan also rank among the promising mines in the district, to say nothing of the London, Russia and a dozen others whose names I have forgotten.
It only needs a railroad to the park to infuse new life and energy into the mining business throughout this region, of which Mounts Bross and Lincoln are the centre and Alma and Fairplay the points where the miner procure supplies.
At Fairplay I met County Clerk E. B. Hepburn, a brother to our George. Mr. Hepburn has been mining on Willows creek in Gunnison county, this season, and gives a good account of the mines of that vicinity.
Mr. A. Reichenecker, formerly territorial assayer at Fairplay, is still doing a great deal of business in that line. He keeps a fine stock of drugs, medicines, &c., and between making assays and attending store he is one of the busiest men in the city.
H. J. Star, who keeps the principal grocery store, does business on the same side with Reichenecker, and has a very large trade.
The hardware business is carried on extensively by Mr. W. J. King, who keeps everything needed by the people of that vicinity.
At the upper end of the town is the South Park brewery, kept by Mr. L. Summers, who also carries on a saloon across the street. His beer has a good reputation among those who use it, and he is increasing his business.
The banking business is carried on in Fairplay by Mr. C. G. Hathaway, one of the best and most reliable business men in the South Park country, and he has the entire confidence of the business men of that vicinity. He is also express and stage agent for the Northwestern stage company. This line is owned by J. A. Nichols, and runs three times a week from Colorado Springs to Fairplay. He keeps the line stocked with the best outfits obtainable and employs none but sober and careful drivers. I am glad to know the line has done a rousing business during the past season. It is rumored that Mr. Nichols will put on a daily line in the spring.
Near Hathaway's bank is the large saloon and billiard hall of Fritz Coleman, one of the most popular men in his line of business in Park county. Fritz is big and fat and good natured, and his place is a great resort for the boys, who like a nice game with something to take handy. The name of the house is the Eclipse, and Fritz knows how to keep up his deserved popularity.
Right opposite the Eclipse is the post office, kept in the store of Mr. A. B. Crook, who is also the postmaster. He keeps a large stock of dry goods, notions, etc. I found the business in charge of Mr. W. A. Morrison. Mr. M. is interested in a number of good mines in the Mosquito district and other localities, and has great faith in the future of the mines of this favored section.
Messrs. Crook and Morrison also keep the Denver and South Park stage office, and the business could not be in better hands. This line runs daily from Fairplay to Morrison, where it connects with the Denver & South Park railroad. Stages that leave Fairplay in the morning reach Morrison in time for the evening train. Passengers and mails leaving Denver in the morning arrive in Fairplay about two o'clock next morning. The line is stocked with the best of coaches and horses, and they change horses oftener than on any other line in the state. The line is owned by McClelland & Spotswood, of Denver, a pair of thorough going stage and livery men.
The gulch mining at Fairplay is done almost altogether by Chinese labor, and James & Co. make a business of keeping a full supply of goods to suit this peculiar trade. They are not confined to the heathen trade by any means, but keep a very large stock of groceries, provisions, etc., for the mountain trade. Mr. Henry Hedd, of this house, is one of the most popular business men in the South Park country.
The land office is near this place, and is presided over by Messrs. Burchinelle and Judge Henry. They report business improving in their department during the last few months. They are a good pair to draw to.
Fairplay and Alma have telegraph lines. The Fairplay office is in charge of Mr. M. J. Bartley, a first rate operator and an affable and accommodating gentleman. His office is in Cavanaugh's fruit and variety store, and is centrally located for business.
Next door to the post office, upstairs, is the parlor billiard hall of Mr. J. J. Hoover, one of the best known business men of Fairplay. On the lower floor he keeps a liquor store, in the rear of which is a cosy sample room, where the best of wines and liquors in the market are sampled by his thirsty customers.
I called at the Sentinel office and found Dick Allen busily engaged in his fight with Hogan. Dick is the pioneer newspaper man of the South Park, and his Sentinel has a big circulation.
After an excellent breakfast at [Tom] Killduf's on Friday morning, I took a seat in the Denver and South Park coach for Morrison, and soon shook the snow of the Park from my feet. At Hamilton's we gained a couple of passengers, who were getting away from Tarryall Gulch after a successful summer's work. The coach halted at Slatt's ranch long enough to allow the passengers to eat dinner, and then it was a long pull through eight inches of snow to Col. James McNasser's, where an excellent supper awaited us. The colonel keeps one of the best hotels in the mountains. We found his son John in charge, and he is a gentleman true to the blood. The hotel is a popular summer resort.
It was ten o'clock when we reached Morrison, but we found the train in waiting for us. There were nine passengers on the coach, and it is not often that nine more agreeable persons get on a stage coach together. Among the passengers was Mr. Edward Miller, of Enterprise, Kansas, one of the best fellows I have traveled with for a long time. He was returning from a successful seige in the Chalk Creek mines. It is a short run on the railroad from Morrison to Denver, which place we reached about midnight, glad to escape from the storms of the mountain regions. BONA.
1879
April 24, 1879. p. 3
May 15, 1879. p. 3
It is only about six weeks now until the Fourth of July, and although too soon to decide which dress to don for the picnic, or how many button kids to purchase for the ball, yet it is desirable that arrangements for a suitable celebration should be made soon, so that ample time for preparation and advertising may be had. We are authorized to state that a grand ball will certainly be given on that night.
The Mosquito Pass has been impassible for horses the past week or two on account of the crust of snow softening. In ten days the snow will have almost entirely disappeared on the trail and then it will be considerably used for horseback travelers as well as those on foot. Just when the road will be in operation over the pass is known only to the management. Although it was claimed that it was passable on the 1st of March yet we hear nothing of it farther and a force of men are still engaged on the grade.
The FLUME has been and will remain a zealous advocate of the miner's cause. Without any disposition to boast we may say that it lies in our power to materially enhance or depreciate the mining interests of this district. The former it will ever be our aim to accomplish, but while there is an obligation on the one side, it is not there alone. Our miner friends should remember that they can aid their own cause by giving the paper a hearty support. If you are not taking now it subscribe at once, and if you already have it prevail on some other one to order it.
At Alma more than the usual spring activity prevails. Everyone who is interested in mining is making preparations for work on a large scale and as a natural consequence the merchants have plenty of orders. The St. Nicholas hotel will be largely refurnished, several freight wagons loaded with new goods having arrived there already. Ed. Killduff will be in possession of the house again soon, if he is not already, and will prepare for a lively business this summer. The placer mine of Mills and Hodges opposite the town is to begin its summer's work very soon now and white labor will be employed upon it. The amount of ore coming down from the mountains is unprecedented at this time in the season, and seems to be bounded only by transportation facilities. A number of families have moved in and, in fact the town has lost much of its deserted look. We are rejoiced at this improved state of affairs and hope Alma will feel its old-time prosperity.
June 12, 1879. p. 1
The state of Georgia proposes to support public schools by taxing beer, whiskey and dogs.
Out West they eat raw eggs with vinegar, pepper and salt, and call them prairie oysters.
p. 2
| St. Nicholas Hotel
ALMA, - - COLO. Ed. Killduff, Prop. -This house has been entirely- Refurnished -AND- Refitted, And is provided with everything required for comfort or convenience of guests. It is a popular resort for TOURISTS OR TRANSIENT GUESTS. -The table is- Bountifully Provided -With everything the market affords- T E R M S R E A S O N A B L E. Enquire for the St. Nicholas Hotel when you go to Alma. |
 |
[This is the first time the ad runs, after this it is in the paper every week until Dr. C. E. Warren takes over the hotel in August.]
p. 3
We are always under obligations to any of our friends who will furnish us items for publication, but a word of caution is desirable, so that exaggerated reports do not creep in, especially in mining matters. It is better to tell the plain truth about any claim and thus give it a chance to improve on the statement, than to first exaggerate and then drop back to hard fact. Give us the news, but give us the truth.
Our readers will notice a card for the St. Nicholas hotel, at Alma, in this week's issue. The popularity of Ed. Killduff, the proprietor, as a caterer to the public taste, is so general in Park county as to make puffing unnecessary, and it is only required to let the people know that he is again at his post, to ensure a full house. He has made many improvements in the St. Nicholas which will be noticed more particularly at some future time.
Reception-James Moynahan, A. E. Jones and Ed. Killduff.
Floor Managers-Andrew Cameron, Jas. Putnam and Wm. Ifinger.
Arrangements-Lew Link, John L Gray and John Hunter.
June 19, 1879. p. 1
The Russian Arctic expedition cost only $68,000, and it discovered a new kind of moss and saw a colored fox.
The French peasantry are not yet tired of shuffling about in wooden shoes, and France produces about four million pairs yearly. They are very economical, and keep the feet dry. The best are made of maple; and, in provincial towns, ladies often wear them.
p. 3
Several changes and additions have been made in the committees for the Alma dance on the evening of July 4th. Read the announcement over again.
In February last there were in the neighborhood of fifty houses vacant in Alma. Passing through there a few days ago our reporter counted but six that were not occupied and they were hardly suitable habitations for a coyote. As for Fairplay, the population has been held in check for several months by the lack of buildings. This difficulty will not remain in the way after the railroad grading force is at work on Red hill.
Henry T. Blake, editor, publisher and proprietor of the Canon City Record sends us his card with a condensed biography of his life on the back. By it we perceive that Mr. Blake "was not always thus," but at one time held the high and honorable position of clerk on a Lake Champlain steamer, etc. We extend our sympathy, brother, there was a time when we were ourself collector for a gas company and never thought to descend to this level.
A few minutes spent in looking through the rooms of the St. Nicholas hotel at Alma has convinced us that it is one of the neatest, best furnished and most comfortable mountain hotels in this or any other county. The furniture is almost all new and high priced and sets off the rooms to perfection; the parlor especially is a gem of a room. As for the table de hote, it is furnished with whatever nice eatables can be had in the market. The house has become very popular and more than once already this season has been so crowded that the corridors have been utilized for sleeping rooms.
Reception-James Moynahan, A. E. Jones, J. T. Brownlow, Joshua Muloch and John L Gray.
Floor Managers-J.G. Brooks, Andrew Cameron, James Putnam and Wm. Ifinger.
Arrangements-Lou Link, John Hunter, Chas. McDonald and Ed. Killduff
June 26, 1879. p. 3
The Mosquito Pass toll road has become the favorite route for horsemen and footmen.
Our efficient police force are keeping the town thoroughly rid of vags and tramps.
The Fourth of July dance at Alma will be the event of the season to all who love the poetry of motion.
[same piece on July 4th as June 19.]
July 3, 1879. p. 3
The hospitality of miners as a class is proverbial and a recent tramp through the mountains has convinced us that it is one of the leading causes of a financial stringency that frequently prevails among them. We impoverished several larders that had been previously well stocked, during our grand rounds.
Hoosier pass is one of the lowest passes on the entire range and can easily be crossed by a railroad. The average height of the pass is from three to five hundred feet below timber line. The first survey for a railroad over this pass was made nearly twelve years ago, and yet to-day none has crossed over. It cannot remain unoccupied much longer.
Up on the range the mountain flowers are in their glory. Acres upon acres of highly tinted honeysuckles, columbines, pinks and hundreds of other rare and beautiful varieties are opening on every hill. Even the accustomed mind of the old prospector is forced to an expression of admiration over their beauty, while the tourist goes wild with enthusiasm. Truly the botany of the higher altitudes is a fascinating study.
The committee of arrangements for the dance at Alma, to-morrow night, have been very busy decorating the town hall with evergreens, so that it will make a creditable appearance. Seventeen sets can dance at once in this hall and as about every body in that town and this neighborhood decided to turn out, there is no doubt but what all the space will be required. Walker's quadrille band will furnish the music. The supper at the St. Nicholas will be an elegant one and no pains or expense will be spared in its preparation.
A twenty-five foot sign bearing the words "St. Nicholas Hotel" will soon be strung across the street at Alma in front of that popular hostlerie.
Forest fires are on every gulch and hill.
The Bon Ton saloon and billiard hall is a new institution at Alma and is opened in the old bank building next to the St. Nicholas hotel, under the proprietorship of the popular Andy Gallagher. The front room is used for the bar alone and in the rear is a large room which will be carpeted and elegantly fitted up for a billiard room. A new Brunswick table will form the chief attraction. Give Andy a call when you are in Alma.
While crossing the range on horseback a few days since, Leonhard Summer informs us that he fell in with a pedestrian who was making rapid time toward Leadville. On inquiry he learned that the man had started from Kansas City on a wager that he could walk to Leadville in ten days. When he reached Leadville he claimed to have won the bet and had eighteen minutes to spare. The name of the plucky pedestrian was not learned. The wager was for $350. [In 1879, $350 had about the same worth as $6,700 does today.]
July 24, 1879. p. 3
Only thirty miles of staging between Denver and Leadville now.
The best beer made west of the Mississippi is turned out at the South Park Brewery. Patronize home industry.
The round-up was about three miles from town [Fairplay] on Tuesday. Close enough for the "cow boys" to come to town and enjoy themselves.
We present this week the advertisement of Gallagher & Co., liverymen of Alma. The men who compose this firm are widely known throughout this section of the state as accommodating gentlemen, and we take pleasure in recommending them to the public.
The Catholic Bishop of Denver will arrive at Fairplay to-day. We are told that it is his intention to leave a priest at this place, Alma, Breckinridge and Cottonwood Springs. This will be good news for the members of the Catholic church, as the have quite a nice edifice here and a very good field for work.
|
Gallagher & Co.
-PROPRIETORS OF THE- NEW LIVERY -AND- Feed Stables, ALMA, COLORADO. Offer the public an opportunity to secure good accommodations, the best of care, and plenty of feed for their stock, by leaving them at this well arranged, comfortable stand. SADDLE PONIES -and- LIVERY RIGS FOR HIRE -At lowest reasonable rates.- This stable is run in connection with the St. Nicholas Hotel. |
 |
July 31, 1879. p. 3
The Catholic Bishop of Colorado has appointed Rev. Edward Walsh to preside over a district which shall embrace the towns of Fairplay, Alma and Breckinridge, and he will also assist Father Robinson at Leadville occasionally. Father Walsh is now in town and will hold mass in the Catholic church next Sunday morning at half past eight o'clock. Sunday school will be held in the afternoon at two o'clock. The future appointments will be published later.
August 14, 1879. p. 2
| St. Nicholas Hotel
Alma, . . . . Colo. C. E. WARREN, Prop. -This house has been entirely- Refurnished -AND- Refitted, And is provided with everything required for comfort or convenience of guests. It is a popular resort for TOURISTS OR TRANSIENT GUESTS. -The table is- Bountifully Provided -With everything the market affords- T E R M S R E A S O N A B L E. Enquire for the St. Nicholas Hotel when you go to Alma. |
 |
[This is the first time the ad runs with the new management, after this it is in the paper every week until November 1880.]
August 21, 1879. p. 3
We failed last week to notice the change in proprietorship of the St. Nicholas Hotel at Alma. Dr. C. E. Warren, an experienced hand in the hotel line has secured a year's lease of the house at a high figure and will run it in first-class style. It has long been known as one of the best of mountain hotels and will take a step forward in the good graces of the public. [It is not known why Edward Kilduff leased out the St. Nicholas. He appears to have moved back and forth between Alma and Leadville in the late 1870's, he may have gone back to Leadville.]
September 4, 1879. p. 1
Letter Written to the Leadville Chroni - by Alderman E. C. Kavanagh
[...]
FAIRPLAY-Is the same as it has been for the past six years-quiet and a trifle dull. The prospects of the town are now brighter than ever in its history. It has had a varied life. It has seen the rise and fall of a dozen towns in its neighborhood, and has held its own. That it will always be the center of Park county's trade is a fixed a fact as the laws of gravitation. That it will come into prominence before the close of this year, is too plausible to be considered a prophecy. To-day it is a town of five hundred people. In six months it will be a town of fifteen hundred. Look out for a boom, and when it comes tell your neighbors: "I told you so!" The only improvement noticeable in Fairplay is the large stone building of Leonhard Summer's, the brewer, and the most enterprising man in that burg. His building is 28x30 feet, one-story high, built out of red sandstone.
On Mount Bross the Russia, Moose, and Dolly Varden mines have been the main stay of Park county for the last four years. The Moose mine is shipping large quantities of high grade mineral and working eighty men. The Dolly Varden mine is shipping more ore than at any time in the last eighteen months, and is working twenty-five men. Mount Bross is literally alive with men, cabins and tents-more plentiful than in 1873-4. On the road to the Moose, and just above timber line, Hall, Brunk and Moynahan are sinking a shaft with the hope of striking carbonates. The porphyry is similar to that of Lake county.
[...]
Alma is quite lively and has three good stores, Moynahan, Brooks and John L. Gray. One good hotel, the St. Nicholas; two restaurants and numerous boarding houses.
p. 3
It is a pertinent question why more people do not engage in market gardening near Fairplay. Where it has been carefully and judiciously tried it has been perfectly successful. We may instance the case of Jacob Harris, who this year raised on the Sunnybrook ranch, a few miles out of town, about two acres of vegetables of nearly all the smaller varieties, which, notwithstanding the unprecedented dryness of the season, turned out an average crop. The boarders at his restaurant have consequently enjoyed the luxuries of green peas and beans, fresh lettuce, radishes, onions, beets, tomatoes and new potatoes. There is plenty of land suitable for such purposes near this town, and there is apparently no reason why all of the vegetables for consumption both in town and the mountains should [not be?] raised close by.
It appears that the infant child of Mr. and Mrs. H. Reinhart, the birth of which was noticed in the FLUME last week, was a boy instead of a girl. We never could understand how such mistakes crept into the type until the Hawkeye man explained it. "It's in the ink."
September 18, 1879. p. 3
Floor Managers.-Andrew Cameron, Sue Sincere and Wm. Ifinger.
Committee of Arrangements.-D. J. McDonald, O. C. Steele and B. J. Burns.
December 4, 1879. p. 3
The large stock of groceries and mining supplies owned by John L. Gray, at Alma, has been moved to the building known as Fink's store, on Main street, a short distance above the St. Nicholas hotel. The building has been leased by Mr. Gray for a year's time, and as he has ordered and is daily expecting the arrival of a big stock of new goods of all descriptions, it is quite evident that he means to stay by Alma in any event. The store building which he formerly occupied has been sub-let to Mitchell & Libermann, the clothiers.
December 11, 1879. p. 3
December 25, 1879. p. 2
How Park people pass the Holidays.
Mrs. Harris and Mrs. Bartley gave a Christmas tree to the little folks last evening. The tree was very prettily ornamented and was hung with presents for every member of the two families.
Sheriff Ifinger thinks he is lucky this year because he got off with fifty dollars worth of Christmas. [About $950 today.]
Dinner parties are on to-day's programme at a number of places in Alma. Messrs. Treweek, Moynahan, Orr, and others celebrate in this way and the St. Nicholas sets up an elegant spread to its guests.
A liberal gentleman living in the Park sent the following carte blanche order to a Fairplay merchant: "Send me something nice for my wife an children."
About this time bachelors are denying themselves cigars and other necessities of life, in order to get funds to invest in gifts for certain members of the fair sex.
To-night the grand ball comes off in the town hall in Alma. The attendance will, we think, be large.
If you catch your female friends sneaking in the back way and carefully concealing something under their aprons, don't be alarmed, they have not been out stealing chickens, they are only smuggling Christmas goods into the house.
1880
January 1, 1880. p. 1
An exchange says that Mr. Robert A. Packer, superintendent of the Pennsylvania railroad, is at present hunting with a party of gentlemen in Nebraska. A few days ago he for two hours conversed pleasantly with his wife and friends at Sayre, Pa., his brother at Mauch Chunk, Pa., and his friends along the line. The medium was the railroad and Western Union telegraph wires and Edison's telephone. At the office in Bethlehem, Pa., connection was made with the Ralston and Amboy wire, and at Perth, Amboy with a Western Union wire, and thence to Chicago and North Bend, Neb., where the party are. The distance was about two thousand miles, and every whisper was audible.--Scientific American.
p. 3
Sportsmen should be careful where they place their target when out shooting for practice. To lose a valuable milch cow by a chance shot, as Uncle Johnny McLain did last week is no fun and would be likely to cost the inaccurate sportsman dear, if caught in the act.
Andy Gallagher has purchased the interest of Ed. Killduff in the livery and saloon business of A. Gallagher & Co., at Alma, and is now in full possession. We are glad to be able to chronicle Andy's success in business, for he is a good fellow and merits it.
Our young ladies should begin to train their "bangs" and again adopt the fascinating "spit" curl, known as the "beau catcher." By a careful perusal of Dr. Ayer's Annual for 1880 we have discovered that last night at twelve o'clock the three years' reign of male tyranny and trepidation ceased, and now the young man will be required to take a dark corner while the sweet angels of mercy hover around and pour red-hot "taffy" in his dilatorious ears. In other words it is leap year.
January 8, 1880. p. 3
S. Mitchell writes us from Utica, New York, where he is spending the winter, that although times are reviving there, yet wages are very low, and a laboring man only gets as high as a dollar a day. The early spring, he says will find him back in Park county, but he will first visit New York city and bring back with him an extra big stock of clothing.
January 22, 1880. p. 3
Dr. G. E. Warren, of the St. Nicholas Hotel at Alma, has been spending several days in Leadville and was accompanied by Mrs. Scearcie. He returned to Alma on Saturday, and met with an unpleasant and painful accident when nearly home. The cutter upset, throwing him out and it was thought at first that several ribs were broken, but when last heard from he was much better and the internal injuries not likely to prove serious.
February 5, 1880. p. 3
April 15, 1880. p. 2
MINE jumping is becoming an almost daily occurrence now, and the interests of this mining district demand that an immediate and peremptory stop be put to it. One would suppose that the complextion of public sentiment in Alma had been so exposed recently that a warning against lawlessness could be read, bit it may be that farther action will be necessary.
Dr. Warren, proprietor of the St. Nicholas hotel, returned from a trip to Texas on Monday. He says he lived on green peas and such while there and thinks Texas is the garden spot for comfort and enjoyment.
p. 3
Such figures as the above would seem to justify the talk of a new and grand hotel. It will be impossible to accommodate the spring rush unless something is done.
April 29, 1880. p. 2
PAST AND PRESENT.
The Business Outlook Bright-A List of the Tributary Mines.
The town of Alma is favorably situated at the mouth of Buckskin gulch, on the west bank of the Platte river, and was first organized as a town during the mining excitement of 1873. At that time every kind of business was being busily prosecuted, and all kinds of the hundreds of mines tributary thereto were being worked with a full force of men. One excitement after another took the miners to various parts of the country, and when the Leadville boom began Alma was little more than a name. The strike in the spring of 1879 made on the Mountain Queen Extension lode, better known as the Fanny Barrett mine, began to attract attention. Even through the summer of 1879 the business of the town was transacted through the two firms of J. G. Brooks and James Moynahan, each dealing in general merchandise, etc. The St. Nicholas, Miner's and Snowy Range hotels were ekeing out an existence, a blacksmith shop, two or three saloons and billiard halls, a livery stable and the sampling works of the Boston and Colorado smelting company, about constituted the town. Rents were low, barely sufficient to pay the taxes. See the changes now. Although the snow has covered the ground during five of the nine months past, the business has trebled, rents have raised four and five hundred percent, and to-day we are on the road to a city. Our business directory for May 1880 will see our town in good running order and will show four hotels with all the guests that can find accommodation, a restaurant, a drug store, two blacksmith shops, two clothing stores, three billiard halls with bars, three saloons, a grocery store, a shoemaker shop, two meat markets, two livery stables are just finished, with a third one with forty stalls in course of erection, besides the stable built last fall by Wall & Witter for the stage teams. Two firms keeping general merchandise-Messrs. Moynahan and Brooks. The former is building a new store to accommodate his business, and the latter is lengthening his store room by an addition 20x30 feet. Then we have a tin shop and hardware store, a cigar and tobacco store, five engineering firms, law firms, doctors, a fancy dry goods and notions store, sampling works with telegraph office, and last but not least, we have a church with regular services. The chances are favorable for a large hotel of fifty feet front by one hundred and eighty deep, three stories high. The lot has been purchased from the B. & C. smelting company and the ground is being cleared. Lumber is in great demand and a lack of it is causing the delay in improvements.
Of mines we have the Dolly Varden, Moose, Russia, Present Help, Sweet Home, Colorado Springs, Fanny Barrett, Red Lion, Tanner Boy, Ernest, Ten-Forty, Philips, American Flag, Big Chief Consolidated, Bonanza King, Hannibal, Golden Lodge, Security, Gregory, Rising Sun, Silver Gun, Orphan Boy, Congress, Bullger, Black Hawk, Sacramento, Silver Cave, Grace, London, and Hard to Beat group, are some of our prospects. We can have a hundred mines shipping ore during this summer. Let the moneyed men of the east come in and secure prospects. A good claim can be obtained here in the Alma district for one tenth of the sum asked for as good a prospect near Leadville.
The D. S. P. & P. R. R. will bring passengers to Red Hill, and two daily lines of coaches will land them in Alma within eighteen hours after leaving Denver. The surveys are being made for the Red Hill, Fairplay and Leadville railroad, and soon we will have a railroad at our doors. Let our citizens have united action and force the toll road company to open the road from here to Leadville. Then let us open the road from here to Breckinridge and the travel will naturally come to Alma.
The FAIRPLAY FLUME recognizing our demands, will place the second page of their paper at our service. The page to contain the heading "Alma" in large type, and the business directory and locals of our town be placed upon it. Then as a community, we owe it to the FLUME to give our patronage and assist in making a good paper, and some day in the near future we will compel its managers by force of circumstances to move their outfit to Alma.
The mine owners re building shaft houses, the placers surrounding our town are preparing for work, and this summer will witness a lively camp. Surrounded as we are by Mosquito, Pennsylvania, Sacramento and Buckskin gulches on one side, and the Platte river and Mount Silverheels on the other, with Buckskin creek and the Platte running through the town, is that we need never fear a scarcity of water. We are favorable situated for a city. If any of our miners have a good prospect let it be known, and one and all will help to build up our common interest. BIJOP.
ALMA, April 28, 1880.
May 6, 1880, p. 3
The short line of telegraph wire that connects Fairplay with the outside world and is known as the Red Hill and Fairplay line, has played a very important part in the last two weeks, and it is found so much of a convenience that our business men have reason to congratulate themselves on their good fortune in securing its construction, for it is now no longer a matter of doubt when a Fairplay message can be sent or received. An advertisement of the new line, telling what it proposes to do, may be found in this issue.
A reporter of the FLUME and Mr. Handley, of Denver, started about ten o'clock on Monday night to return from the public meeting in Alma, and when just out of that town they were met by three of the boys who assured them that a party of men were lurking in the woods at Cottage Grove and would probably "hold them up." They said their escape was due to the fact that they were talking about having firearms at the very minute that one of the supposed highwaymen stepped out from behind a tree. A soon as he heard their remarks he stepped out of sight and they passed on. As the boys in question are not given to exaggeration in such matters the writer and companion put their six bits each into their boots and took the other road home. Right here we may say that it would not be anywise surprising to hear of some "holding up" on this road before the year is out, and we advise late travelers to "look a little out."
May 13, 1880, p. 3
Alma now boasts of a photograph gallery. The owner is now working his camera in a tent, but if the demand for his pictures continues as lively as it has begun, he will soon find he has ample funds and business to justify the building of a suitable frame gallery.
Twenty-five head of horses, consisting of saddle ponies and carriage stock passed through town a few days since, for Dr. Warren's new livery barn at Alma. Also a full equipment of carriages, harness, saddles, etc. The large stable will be so far completed that it can be used this week. It will contain forty stalls and measures 120x30 feet, as already stated. In connection with his hotel the Doctor will be ready to supply comfortable quarters for transient stock belonging to his guests or others and will supply livery outfits of any kind to those in need of them.
In order to provide room for the large number that daily and nightly seek accommodation at the St. Nicholas hotel in Alma, Dr. Warren has induced Mr. and Mrs. Killduff to join him in putting up a large addition. It will extend the second story back to the next street, making 70x25 feet of extra room, which can be divided into sixteen sleeping apartments. A two-story kitchen and laundry will also be erected at once upon the adjoining lot. Already the hall partitions have been taken out, thus nearly doubling the size of the office, and with the additions spoken of the St. Nicholas can rank with the best hotels in the mountains.
May 27, 1880, p. 3
Messrs. W. H. Bush and H. A. W. Tabor were the first to cross Mosquito pass in a wheeled vehicle this year. They were driven over by John Wall, and arrived in Fairplay Monday evening. The pass road was not in thoroughly good condition at that time, but the work to be done in putting it in order was so little that it is reasonable to suppose that ere now it has been done. Geo. B. Robinson, D. C. Crawford and another gentleman crossed about the same time, but did part of the journey on foot.
June 17, 1880, p. 2
INTERESTING NOTES
From the Busy Town of Alma
Which Show no Abatement in the Business of the Place or Interest in the Mines.
JUNE 15.-Another week with fair weather has sent the camp ahead with another stride, and now the streets of Alma begin to resemble the crowded thoroughfares of a busy, prosperous mining centre. The number of people who have come in here during the past month has exceeded the most sanguine expectations of our old citizens, and the beauty about it all is that the crowd still keeps coming. There is no doubt but that the unsettled state of affairs in mining circles in Leadville is having a tendency to divert attention this way, and as Park county's prospects advance, those who come for business usually find it encouraging enough for permanent investment. The future of Alma never was brighter than it looks to-day, and if it continues as well during the coming summer months, the close of the season will find it an established field for investment, and a live, active centre for business.
The demand for business houses and private dwellings continues great, and the want of sufficient hotel accommodations is making itself felt. The store rooms and additions that have been in course of erection during the past four weeks are being completed as rapidly as the material can be secured, and the next week will likely witness postmaster Moynahan in his new house, and the addition to the St. Nicholas ready to receive guests.
The new building being erected by Wm. Treweck or a drug store is almost completed.
Those who want to get an idea of the many new comers that are coming into Alma every day, should look in at the assay office of W. F. Kendrick, the well known assayer. He has the cosiest office in the city and will accommodate a stranger and make him feel that he is welcome in Alma.
Census enumerator Bromley has been scouring over the hills and gulches since the first of the month. [Edwin Coursey was enumerated in the Alma census by Bromley on June 1st, the Kilduffs on the 2d.]
The nomination of Garfield was ratified here on Saturday night by the Republicans, who, with the assistance of a brass band and an unlimited quantity of powder, kept up a royal rejoicing until midnight.
A religious lecture and a humorist served to vary the monotony of things with entertainments at the town hall during the week.
The road to Breckinridge is still to be opened. The travel between that place and Alma would seem to warrant more energy than is being displayed by those who control the thoroughfare.
[...]
August 5, 1880, p. 2
No rush and no excitement, but Alma is growing like the brave old oak, and we think it advisable to adopt municipal organization under the general law. Then his honor, the mayor, will reign supreme.
Lew Link makes the best officer that Alma has ever had. He never has any trouble in making arrests, and keeps excellent order. The "boys" all fear him, and yet they like him.
Joseph Gorman is our night watch and has his hands full.
Several large sales are in process of completion. We shall speak respectively of them when matured.
Our festival came off when advertised, and was the event of the season. The supper was splendid and the delicacies abundant. Credit is due the ladies who got it up so tastefully. It was largely attended. At times during the evening there were over a hundred in the hall. All patronized in some way and most of them took supper. We should judge that there were at least two hundred that contributed their mite, receiving in return such luxuries as they called for. They all ate and drank, laughed and talked, and enjoyed themselves. Good music was rendered by the choir. We are not informed as to the receipts, but rest assured that they were large.
From the way people are erecting substantial dwellings and business houses it is evident that they are confident of the permanence of the town. Well they might be. This district has already many good paying mines, and hundreds of more will soon fall into line as they are developed.
We want a railroad, and must have one. The South Park railroad company should bear in mind that Fairplay and Alma are here to stay, and should it build a branch road from Red Hill via Fairplay to Alma it would pay for itself. [By 1885 there was a railroad to Fairplay and Alma, ending at the London. It did not run from Red Hill, but from Garos. The tracks were removed by 1937.]
Alma has a very creditable public school, which is presided over by Miss Annie Rawlins, with forty or fifty pupils in attendance. We regret to state that, too much the case in the west, parents have their time and attention so absorbed in their daily business occupations that they seldom or never visit the school.
August 26, 1880, p. 2
September 16, 1880, p. 3
October 7, 1880, p. 3
Andy Gallagher [owner of the Bon Ton saloon in Alma] is causing consternation among the hotel keepers in Denver. Andy always was a hearty eater.
The new jail building is completed and has been accepted by the county commissioners. Sine its completion it presents a very neat and substantial appearance. The steel cages will be placed inside as soon as possible, and will furnish accommodations for at least twelve prisoners--more than the county can hope to have on hand at any one time.
November 4, 1880 p. 3
The vote of Park county has increased nearly four hundred since a year ago. This indicates a rapidly increasing population.
Fairplay is no longer the home of the Chinese. But a dozen or two of the celestial brotherhood remain where once there were more than a hundred.
The tax books for the year 1880 are now in the county treasurers hands, and everybody's tax falls due next Monday for the first time. Don't all rush at once.
November 11, 1880, p. 3
Dr. C. E. Warren, late proprietor of the St. Nicholas hotel at Alma, writes us that he has relinquished the house and retired from the hotel business of this county.
The "Fire King" the fire engine that saved what was left of Central City in 1875 now belongs to the town of Alma together with 300 feet of Caswell's best hose.
November 18, 1880, p. 3
News Notes Picked up on the Streets of Alma
ALMA, Nov. 17.-We notice that the FLUME comes to its Alma subscribers regularly and is , as usual, full of interesting local, state and mining news, and that a liberal space is always given to the news of Alma and vicinity. I will endeavor to aid you in collecting and mentioning events that occur here.
Last Saturday a man, whose name we suppress, shot a hole in the floor of the Southern hotel and went outside and drew his revolver on a friend. Marshal Link then led him off to the cooler. In there he continued to yell and swear that he would set the building on fire. After a while some one noticed that the inside of the calaboose was in flames. A large crowd collected as soon as the alarm was given. The man inside was by this time well frightened and begged and pleaded for the door to be opened. As the fire was threatening to engulf him the bars of the window were smashed in and out he came with singed hair and burning coat tails. As the building was still in danger P. O. Gaynor ordered a bucket line formed. This was at one done and the fire was soon extinguished. The building was considerably demoralized. The perpetrator of this crime was re-arrested on Monday morning, plead guilty, and was fined for drunkenness, disorderly conduct and consequent damages to the town, and was fined $111.50. [$111.50 in 1880 is worth about the same as $2180 is today.] He was released and advised to leave town, which he immediately did.
Our young folks enjoy themselves of late, both day and night, skating on the ice between town and the placer. The ice covers several acres.
It seems that at last the walking mania has lost its hold on our pedestrians. For two or three weeks a go-as-you-please foot race took place every few days, and a good deal of money changed hands on the participants. The following good time was made in several of these races: 26 miles in 5 hours; 16 miles in 3 hours; 7 � miles in 1 hour.
A rumor has been circulating the last week that the fare from Denver to Chicago had been reduced to $25. Others placed it at $8.25. Not finding any account of such a reduction in the Denver papers, some of the citizens sent a telegraphic inquiry. The answer was: "Fare $41.25." [About $810 today.] The walking is so bad we have concluded to wait till spring.
The St. Nicholas is meeting with success under the new management. The Southern is run over day and night.
1881 NEW!
January 20, 1881, p. 3
Business is picking up. So say the leading merchants of Fairplay.
The sleighing is just perfect and many are improving the opportunity for fun.
Thanks, to Dr. Warren, late of the St. Nicholas hotel at Alma, for favors extended.
March 24, 1881, p. 3
The grand ball of the Alma "Pirates" came off as per calendar appointment and was a very fine affair. The many dancers present had no idea that they were celebrating the last dance in the now extinct town hall, but enjoyed themselves heartily. We hear many encomiums upon the elegance of the supper, provided at the St. Nicholas, and the care of the management in looking after the comfort and pleasure of the guests. Although heavy expenses were incurred, the "Pirates" come out even on the venture which is all or more than they hoped for.
[Destruction of Alma Town Hall]
April 28, 1881, p. 3
May 12, 1881, p. 3
Jas. Moynahan reports sending out a large jack train heavily loaded with goods for four successive days last week, which goes to show that miners are getting in supplies for an active season.
The St. Nicholas hotel is coming out handsomely this spring. The house has been renovated and put in apple pie order from cellar to garret, and is now prepared to accommodate the spring rush. Under the management of Mrs. E. D. Killduff, who is a painstaking landlady, the house is bound to flourish.
July 21, 1881, p. 3
Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Killduff are spending a few days visiting friends in Leadville. They return to the St. Nicholas at Alma, this week.
1882 NEW!
January 26, 1882, p. 2
It begins to look as if Park county's boom was set for 1882.
p. 3
Several hundred dollars have already been spent this winter in keeping up the town water supply in the ditches. We hope this is the last winter that the people of Fairplay will be dependent upon such a source of supply.
Mrs. E. D. Killduff, the highly esteemed landlady of the St. Nicholas hotel at Alma, has been in rather poor health for some months and decided to take a rest from her arduous labors by means of a trip to Denver. She went down there with her children on Tuesday and will be absent several weeks.
July 6, 1882, p. 3
Not everyone has got over the Fourth of July yet.
Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Killduff have returned to the St. Nicholas, in Alma, from a long visit to their old home in Dushore, Pennsylvania.
September 7, 1882, p. 2
| St. Nicholas Hotel,
Bross Street, Alma, Mrs. E. D. KILLDUFF, Proprietor. Colo. The Only First-Class HOTEL IN THE MOUNTAINS OF PARK COUNTY. Rates Reduced to meet the Demands of the Times. |
 |
October 19, 1882, p. 2
"A large number of the invited friends and relatives of Mr. Edward Coursey and Miss Mary McCormick assembled at the Catholic church to witness the impressive ceremony, which was to unite in holy bonds of wedlock this well known couple.
The Rev. Edward Chapius, pastor of the charge of Alma, performed the rites according to the form of that religious denomination, and in short order the twain were made one flesh, and the happy bride and groom were almost overwhelmed with the congratulations showered upon them. Many who were unable to attend the ceremony called at the parlors of the St. Nicholas hotel during the evening to offer their good wishes to the newly married couple. The wedding supper had been prepared with great care and taste? by Mrs. Killduff, proprietress of the hotel and sister of the bride, and as the guests arranged themselves at the long tables, which were almost groaning with their weight of good things, their wants were immediately attended to by a corps of the best looking women and girls in the city. The wants of the inner man having been abundantly satisfied, the entire party repaired to Howell hall, the use of which had been generously donated by the proprietor for the evening, and to the inspiring strains of music, the party were whirled away in the merry mazes of the dance. It was a time for giving one's self up to thorough enjoyment, and all did so. * * The presents received were numerous and elegant, and, as usual, were viewed by many."
[For an image of the article and more info go here.]
November 09, 1882, p. 4
st nic ad, same as above Mrs. E. D. Killdiff
December 14, 1882, p. 1
WITH the stimulus of public improvements that are being made Fairplay should see a busy building season next year.
SILVER is down to $1.101? and lead is quoted at $4.25, yet the ore buyers do not appear to be disturbed about the ultimate result.
THE papers are full of accounts of the terribly severe winter that is prevailing in the east. Passengers landing in Fairplay, who went east a month or six weeks ago, remark with surprise, "Why, it is not as cold as when I left here!"
THERE is every reason to believe that the two-cent letter postage law will be soon on the statute books. The national house is now discussing whether the change shall be wrought by July 1st, 1883 or by January 1st, 1884. There is no reason for waiting and we hope the former date will be chosen.
IT IS true there is a great deal of work going on in Park county mines this winter; more than usual, no doubt. Still we are not up to the average in this particular. There are a great many who still cling to the idea that winter is the time for a four months' sleep, and they shut the mines and crawl into their holes at the first flurry of snow. This retards progress, and what we most need, development.
Slade, of the Bulletin, is the only man rash in Alma rash enough to carry on improvements. He has just completed a posterior attachment to his office, which is either intended to protect his wood pile from the depredations of his neighbors, or serve as an old? house for the Wyandotte bonanza.
Travel is light and business quiet. The hotels are fairly well patronized since the storm drove in the miners. The St. Nicholas, as usual, leads, and Ed. Coursey, as chief of the office, looks carefully after the wants of the guests.
The tax of nearly six per cent, which Alma people are called upon to pay, is considered burdensome and is causing a great deal of discussion. It is quite evident that the present annual revenues of the town will foot up nearly $8,000 and there are loud calls for retrenchment.
1883 NEW!
April 19, 1883, p. 4
The St. Nicholas hotel has been closed for some weeks, while undergoing a thorough cleaning and remodeling. It will be thrown open to the public about May 1st. We were permitted to view the interior decorations of the house a few days since and they certainly do credit to the liberality and good taste of the proprietors. Mrs. Killduff intends to keep the reputation of the house up to the standard of past years. Al. Bement, who returned from Wisconsin with his bride lately, will be clerk and bookkeeper for the house this summer, which will detract nothing from its popularity.
July 5, 1883, p. 1
In the evening at Howell's hall occurred one of the largest balls ever held in the county. Forty-four couples were counted on the floor at one time. The judges found that Miss Delia Mullen was the most graceful waltzer in the room and she was presented the purse of $15. As next best Miss Jennie Guiraud received the second purse of $10. Mr. George S. Beale was fortunate enough to be called the best gentleman dancer and was awarded a pair of slippers as such. The supper at the St. Nicholas was a banquet of large dimensions and great variety.
August 2, 1883, p. 4
August 16, 1883, p. 4
GENERAL REVIVAL OF CONFIDENCE AND INCREASING OUTPUT.
Social Events in the Mining Metropolis.
Mining is now more legitimately carried on in this camp than for many years. The production is greater and the money we now have is honestly obtained from the mountains. We have less of the transient element, and money is not scattered around as though it had no value, but the camp was certainly never on so good a footing as it is today.
September 6, 1883, p. 4
J. G. Brooks says business is as good as he ever saw it in Alma. Money, however, is a little close.
