Remembering George Washington Eaton – 1845 to 1929

“George Eaton Passes Away

“George Eaton another old timer of this community passed away at 10:00 o’clock Wednesday night. Mr. Eaton, aged 84 years, has been in poor health for the past six months and for several weeks has been very ill. He is survived by his wife, one son Calvin Eaton of Oolagah, and two daughters, Mrs. Callie Eaton and Mrs. J.M. York of Claremore. Mr. Eaton is one of the oldest settlers of this community having come here to live more than sixty years ago. For a number of years he has made his home at Inola at which place he passed away.” [1]

George Washington Eaton. Birth 1845. Death (November 20) 1929 (aged 83-84). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-1.-L18-4E. Spouses: Nancy E. Eaton (1851 – 1896 and Minnie A. Eaton (1867 – 1934). Children: Dr. Rachel Caroline Eaton, Ph.D. (1869-1938), James Calvin Eaton (1871-1947), Martha Pauline Eaton York (1877-1943), Joel Merritt Eaton (1879-1922). [2] Charlie G. Eaton [3]

by Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

[1] The Claremore Messenger (Claremore, Oklahoma). Thursday, November 21, 1929. p. 4. Newspapers.com .

[2] https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33947584/george-washington-eaton

[3] https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/8459545/charley-g-eaton

Claremore’s O’Brien Building – a squeaky clean history

O’Brien Building, first building on the left. “Third Street, looking West, Claremore, Oklahoma. Left side near to far – O’Brien Building (1910), Theeson Building (1906), Rexall Drug Store, Campbell Building (1911). Right side, near to far – Columbia Building, Gorey Building (1909), Johnson Building (1909), BF Loomis/ Johnson Building (1906), Burns Building (1906), Bayless/Chambers Building (1905/6), Eaton/Wilson Building (1902).

Tim Pate owns Ann’s Cleaners & Laundry, the building and business located in the O’Brien Building on the southwest corner of Cherokee Avenue and Will Rogers Boulevard in Claremore, Oklahoma’s historic downtown district. Ann’s is a family run business that has prospered in Claremore for over four-and-a-half decades. In a recent interview Tim reminisced saying he learned the dry cleaning and laundry business from his mother Ann who learned it in Canada from her father.

Tim was twelve years old when his family arrived in Claremore moving from California in 1975. Tim recalls, there were still meter maids in downtown Claremore at the time. In the beginning Ann worked for several local cleaners: Hendricks, Mason and Imperial.[i] Eventually, the family bought and ran the Hendricks’s cleaning business, though Ann continued to press for the Masons as needed.

At first, Ann leased the east side, ground floor room of the O’Brien Building. Soon, the dry cleaning business grew so large more space was needed. Eventually, Ann purchased the entire building. Tim remarked, the west side store space had been a gym filled with exercise equipment that had to be removed. Roomers living upstairs also vacated their apartments.  

In September 1982, forty years ago, Tim started working at Ann’s Cleaners full time and eventually purchased the business when his mother was ready to sell. Now, Tim’s cleaning business engulfs the entire first floor.

This is the story of one family’s experience running a business from the historic O’Brien Building. Surely in its 11-decade existence this brick structure has many more stories to tell.

As early as 1896, a large one-story framed building stood at the southwest corner of 3^rd Street (now Will Rogers Boulevard) and Cherokee Avenue, Claremore, Oklahoma (Block 113, Lot 9 & 10). Visible in the iconic 1906 F.L. Stone panoramic photograph of downtown Claremore, this clapboard building according to Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps of Claremore, Indian Territory, housed a Grocery (1898), Sample Room (1901), Furniture and Second-hand store (1903), and a Restaurant and Meat store (1907).[ii] But soon after Oklahoma statehood a permanent brick building, the one that still stands today at 401 & 403 West Will Rogers Boulevard, was built.

In August 1910, the Claremore Messenger announced, E.W. O’Brien, of Oklahoma City, “purchased the fifty-foot lot of C.A. Warner, located on the corner of Third and Cherokee. He will move the frame buildings off and erect a nice modern two-story business block. The deal was negotiated through James Scott.”[iii]

“C.A. and Hattie M. Warner to E.W. O’Brien, lot 10 and 23 feet lot 9 blk. 113, Claremore, $7,250.”[iv]

That September, Mr. O’Brien, made “arrangements for the moving of the old buildings off the lot preparatory to building a brick business house.”[v]

The Claremore Progress reported in October, “The brick buildings now under construction in the city are moving on nicely; the laying of brick has begun on the new O’Brien building while the brick work on the new Ward building (now Boarding House Books) is more than half completed and the carpenters are getting along nicely with the inside of the building. The Ward building will have a porch at the second story across the rear of the building and another 30 feet long on the east side, which will add much to the comfort of the guests who will occupy the hotel.” [vi]

The O’Brien Building stood squarely on its corner lot. Divided by a decoratively designed arched brick street side stairway entrance that led to the second floor, this building contained two expansive, narrow business rooms on the ground floor. Customers entered the stores through front entrances facing 3^rd Street. The building had copper pipes and artistically designed ceilings made of pressed tin tiles. The detailed brick edifice boasted a fancy parapet across the roofline with large glass storefront windows on both first and second levels in front and along the Cherokee Avenue side. In an era when the use of electric lights was in its infancy, the natural light of the large windows was an asset to business owners.

It was not till January 1911, that R.S. Saunders was able to move his store into “the corner room of the new O’Brien building.”[vii] That month, Judge Archibald Bonds and J.I. Howard moved their new law partnership into a “handsome suite of rooms in the O’Brien building.”[viii]

The Rogers County News enthused, “Large O’Brien Block Fast Nearing Completion – At the corner of Third Street and Cherokee Avenue stands one of the most imposing and substantially built brick blocks in Claremore. It is the new O’Brien block, which occupies ground space of 50×100 feet, and stands two stories high. This pretty business block, when entirely completed, will cost the owner, E.W. O’Brien, very near $20,000. The plans were drawn so as to make this one of the best lighted business blocks in the city. The two lower apartments are very spacious and stylishly finished. R.S. Saunders’ store already occupies the east corner and the west corner will soon be ready to receive the goods of E.E. North’s New York Store. Mr. North is having some expensive furniture installed, preparing to make his new store one of the best of its class in Oklahoma.”[ix]

Later that month, E.E. North announced, “We Move Feby. 1 – Having contracted for the center store room in the O’Brien Block we will on Tuesday, Jany 31^st, close our present store to allow us time to move and get comfortably settled into our new home. This will probably require ten days. You can help us move by taking advantage of the following bargains: 30 per ct. off on Wall Paper, 1/3 off on English China. Reduction on fish and globes. We have a big stock of Valentines which we desire to dispose of before we move. N.Y. 5 and 10c Store.[x]

“In Front of the Five and Ten Cent Store, Claremore, Oklahoma.”

E.E. North was elated with his store’s opening in its new location in the O’Brien block that February. “At the opening of the New York 5 and 10c store in the new O’Brien block… proprietor, E.E. North, looked more happy and pleased than even a boy with his first pair of suspenders or pair of long pants. Well so he may! For ten days, Mr. North and Miss North his able assistant, with a corps of lady clerks, have been busy as bees planning a big stock of pretty novelties and staple goods upon the… shelves and in the several handsome display cases.  When the hundreds of visitors on Friday responded to the invitations to the opening, they found… a world of pretty articles to look upon. Each visitor was presented a souvenir.”[xi]

The county court had previously been held in the second floor of the G.W. Eaton Building (now Sailor Antiques on the northeast corner of Will Rogers Boulevard and Missouri Avenue) since the building’s creation for Wilson’s Hardware store in 1902. When judges T.L. Brown and H. Tom Kight announced they would designate the “O’Brien Building as the place in which they would hold the courts of the county, this brought out quite an argument in which G.W. Eaton and others seemed to be somewhat interested, and after much debate upon the matter Judge Kight agreed to hold court in the Eaton building for six days; that being the time limit of the old contract in which Mr. Eaton was to be notified in case the commissioners should see fit to terminate their contract with him.”[xii]

In February many county officers moved to “Transact Business in the New O’Brien Block.” The Rogers County News reported, “Last Saturday was moving day for many of the county officers having offices in the Eaton block, part of which has been used as a court house since 1902. The officers to take up new quarters were Sheriff Sanders and Judge Kight; they now are settled in pleasant rooms in the new O’Brien block. County Attorney Elliott had contracted for office rooms in the new block almost before its completion. One story is sent out for the reason of this move at this time as follows. The county’s lease of the second story of the Eaton block expired about the tenth of March this year, and to get possession of his building at that time, G.W. Eaton served the usual thirty-day notice to vacate. Mr. Eaton would, after that date, look to the officers individually for his rent money. The county judge and the sheriff thought it best to move into the O’Brien block while a few rooms were vacant. One of the heavy safes was also moved up into the new block.”[xiii]

Conveniently, a number of attorneys also moved their law offices into the O’Brien building. When attorneys Ezzard and Holtzendorff moved into their new offices in the O’Brien Building it was said they had “one of the best equipped law offices in this part of the state.”[xiv]

Later that year, Blackford & Braden set up offices in the O’Brien Building as did Edgar Anderson Attorney at Law.[xv]

But change was in the winter air that cold, crisp February of 1912 when the announcement was made, “O’Brien Building Sold. W.L. Swager Tuesday sold the O’Brien building corner of Third and Cherokee to J.M. Bidwell, of Wagoner, the consideration being $18,000 cash. Mr. Bridwell is one of the wealthy men of Wagoner county and may decide to locate in Claremore permanently. He will be back in the city next week and may purchase a home at that time. We understand Mr. O’Brien will go to Mexico to make his future home.”[xvi]

“E.W. O’Brien to Ida K. Bridwell, lot 10 and part lot 9 block 113, $18,000.”[xvii]

That year, John Quincy Adams “moved his law office from the Eaton building into the O’Brian building at the corner of Third and Cherokee. This is probably the best location for a law office in the city.”[xviii]

Tragically, a fire caught hold of the O’Brien building in October 1912. The Claremore Progress reported, “Fire broke out in the second story of the O’Brien building on Main street about 7:45 Wednesday evening. The fire department responded promptly and what would have proven a disastrous fire, but for prompt work, was prevented. The fire originated in the room occupied as an office by E.C. Alberty. All the furniture in the room destroyed, a hole burned in the ceiling overhead and in the floor of the second story. Mr. Alberty’s loss is probably $50.00 and repairs to the building will probably cost as much. R.S. Saunders probably was the heaviest sufferer; his loss resulting from water which was used in getting the flames under control.”[xix] This was the second fire R.S. Saunders had suffered while in business in Claremore.

The April 29, 1907, downtown fire destroyed two buildings on the southwest end of Claremore’s main street. Saunders’ stock of merchandise was much “destroyed by getting crumpled up and dirty, etc. not necessarily injuring the goods in any way, but greatly reducing their selling value.”[xx]

After the fire, Mrs. N. Skinner opened her new studio and exchange “in rooms 10, 11 and 12 in the O’Brien building over the New York Store, [and] prepared to do all kinds of china painting,” advertising, “Your liberal patronage of this china class is solicited. Opening all day Friday and Saturday.”[xxi]

When Judge Tom Kight and Richard H. Wills formed a law partnership in 1913, the new firm opened offices in the O’Brien building[xxii] as did loan officer  “Lee Settle, Room 2, O’Brien Bldg.”[xxiii]

J.G. Waldrop, Physician and Surgeon opened his practice in the “O’Brien Building, Rooms 12 – 16” in 1915. [xxiv]

January 1917, E.H. Sanders filed an application requesting a license to open a billiard and pool establishment known as the Liberty Billiard and Pool Hall in the O’Brien building.  J.A. Bell filed for a license to operate a billiard parlor known as the Mission Billiard hall in the same.[xxv]

As an act of patriotic duty during the first World War, 1918, “The Home Service Section of the Rogers County chapter of the Red Cross… opened headquarters in (attorney) W.H. Bassman’s office in the O’Brien building.”[xxvi] It was here that the Red Cross helped enlisted men understand their commitment and aided them on their way.

When George H. Shafer purchased the American Café of S.P. Blakley located in the O’Brien building in 1920, he remodeled the space and changed the café’s name to The Sanitary Waffle House.[xxvii] The Claremore Progress declared, G.H. Shafer “has one of the nicest eating houses in the city and is a town booster. He is heartily in favor of anything that will make the burg grow.”[xxviii]

Shockingly, “The high wind and accompanying rain,” of July 1920, “blew two window lights out of the E.E. North sample room next door to the Sanitary Waffle House and also blew the top off of an automobile.”[xxix]

That September, Gust Leekos “purchased the Sanitary Waffle House from George Shafer and took charge.”[xxx] A newspaper advertisement stated, “Sanitary Waffle House Everything Good to Eat.”[xxxi]

Souvenir Booklet, Claremore, Oklahoma. c. 1922. Photo Courtesy the Rogers County Historical Society. Belvidere Mansion Archives.

Popular Claremore photographer, John Blair “leased the Bridwell (O’Brien) building just east of the Haggard Bakery (located in the Theeson Building) [to] occupy the same with his studio about the first of March 1921.”[xxxii]

A Sanborn Fire Insurance Map, June 1916, further records a Billiards’ parlor in the west side of the O’Brien building, with a Grocery business in the east. By 1925, a “Garage, Capacity 15 Cars” was located in the western half with an unnamed store located in the east. By January 1933, unspecified stores were located in the first floor and a rooming house was located on the second.

Long-time Claremore residents will remember the O’Brien Building at 401 and 401-1/2 Will Rogers Boulevard as the home of Western Auto Association (at least 1939 – 1963), Dr. Meloy’s Claremore General Hospital [at least 1935, 1942 (C. Adair, Supt.) to 1954], The Claremore Hotel [at least 1955, 1958 (Laura Hawks – owner), till at least 1973], and now Ann’s Cleaners.[xxxiii]

It’s inspiring to listen to owners talk about the history of their downtown Claremore buildings and to hear the passion they have for the businesses they’ve created. Tim Pate and Ann’s Cleaners is no exception. The same passion runs the length of the longer Claremore story making this the town we so admire today.

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Sources: Unless otherwise noted, Oklahoma newspapers are sourced through The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

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[i] “Ann’s Cleaners Celebrates 40 years in Claremore,” Kristy Sturgill, Claremore Daily Progress. September 28, 2016.

Tim Pate interview, Friday, October 21,2022.

[ii] Sanborn Fire Insurance Map Claremore, IT, Jan 1894. Sheet 2.

1-story framed “S. Not Finished.”

Sanborn Fire Insurance Map Claremore, IT, June 1896. Sheet 2.

1-story framed “Vac. S.” with front porch

Sanborn Fire Insurance Map Claremore, IT, Nov 1898. Sheet 2.

1-story framed “Gro.” with front porch

Sanborn Fire Insurance Map Claremore, IT, April 1901. Sheet 2.

1-story framed “Sample Rm.” with front porch

Sanborn Fire Insurance Map Claremore, IT, Sep 1903. Sheet 3.

1-story framed “Furne & 2d Hand S.” with front porch

Sanborn Fire Insurance Map Claremore, IT, July 1907. Sheet 4.

1-story framed “Rest. Meat (IR. CL).” With no front porch.

Sanborn Insurance Map Claremore, Oklahoma, June 1916. Sheet 3.

2-story, brick, iron clad 2^nd west wall with breezeway. Central front stairway. Water, Billiards west. Gro. To the east. Auto & Vac iron cl. Additions to the rear. Bakery to the west

Sanborn Fire Insurance Map Claremore, OK, Dec 1925 Sheet 3.

2-story brick “Garage, Capacity 15 Cars, Wood Floor. Lights: Electric. Heat: Stove. (west).” S (east). Rear Repair Shop (rear).

Sanborn Fire Insurance Map Claremore, Oklahoma, January 1933. Sheet 3.

2-story brick “Store. Rooming 2^nd”.

Sanborn Fire Insurance Map Claremore, Oklahoma, January 1933. Sheet 3.

2-story brick “Store. Rooming 2^nd”. Porch in front of 403, to the east side of 401.

[iii] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 15, No. 48, Ed. 1 Friday, August 19, 1910. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178340/).

[iv] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 15, No. 49, Ed. 1 Friday, August 26, 1910. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178341/).

Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 29, Ed. 1 Friday, August 26, 1910. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181205/).

[v]Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 30, Ed. 1 Friday, September 2, 1910, newspaper, September 2, 1910; Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181206/: accessed October 12, 2022), The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

[vi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 36, Ed. 1 Friday, October 21, 1910. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181213/).

[vii] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 7, Ed. 1 Friday, January 6, 1911. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178360/).

[viii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 49, Ed. 1 Friday, January 6, 1911. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181222/).

[ix] Larner, J. H. The Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 1, No. 45, Ed. 1 Wednesday, January 12, 1910. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc956460/).

[x] Larner, J. H. The Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 2, No. 47, Ed. 1 Thursday, January 26, 1911. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc957286/).

[xi] Larner, J. H. The Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 2, No. 50, Ed. 1 Thursday, February 16, 1911. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc956373/).

[xii] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 7, Ed. 1 Friday, January 13, 1911. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178361/).

[xiii] Larner, J. H. The Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 2, No. 52, Ed. 2 Thursday, February 2, 1911, newspaper, February 2, 1911; Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc956276/).

[xiv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 1, Ed. 1 Friday, February 3, 1911. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181226/)

[xv] Harper, William R. Rogers County Leader. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 1, No. 83, Ed. 1 Friday, October 6, 1911. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc956049/)

[xvi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 3, Ed. 1 Friday, February 16, 1912. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181279/).

[xvii] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 14, Ed. 1 Friday, March 8, 1912. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178424/).

[xviii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 6, Ed. 1 Friday, March 8, 1912. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181282/)

[xix] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 39, Ed. 1 Friday, October 25, 1912.(https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181315/).

[xx] Smith, Clark. The Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 13, No. 19, Ed. 1 Friday, May 3, 1907. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178150/).

[xxi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 46, Ed. 1 Friday, December 13, 1912. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181327/).

[xxii] Ross, Ayres K. Rogers County Leader. And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 45, Ed. 1 Friday, January 10, 1913. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc175894/)

[xxiii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 5, Ed. 1 Friday, February 28, 1913.(https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181347/).

[xxiv] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 23, No. 1, Ed. 1 Thursday, February 11, 1915. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181538/).

[xxv] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 24, No. 52, Ed. 1 Thursday, January 25, 1917. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181638/).

[xxvi] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 19, Ed. 1 Thursday, May 30, 1918. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc182586/).

[xxvii] Claremore Messenger (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 41, Ed. 1 Friday, March 12, 1920. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178892/).

[xxviii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 28, No. 20, Ed. 1 Thursday, April 15, 1920.(https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc183149/).

[xxix] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 33, Ed. 1 Thursday, July 22, 1920.(https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc183233/).

[xxx] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 41, Ed. 1 Thursday, September 16, 1920.(https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181843/).

[xxxi] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 30, No. 44, Ed. 1 Thursday, December 21, 1922. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc182530/).

[xxxii] Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 9, Ed. 1 Thursday, February 3, 1921. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc182145/).

[xxxiii] Western Auto Association (at least 1942 – 1963);

Dr. Meloy’s Claremore General Hospital [at least 1942 (C. Adair, Supt.) to 1954];

The Claremore Hotel [at least 1955, 1958 (Laura Hawks – owner), till at least 1973].

Sources:

1949 photos, Blair Photo Collection, Rogers County Historical Society Archives;

“Claremore – Historic Sites Survey – Indian Nations Council of Governments for the Oklahoma Historic Society.” 1985;

Claremore Oklahoma, City Directory, Johnson Publishing Co. 1963.

Telephone Directory, Claremore, Oklahoma. Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, May 1942, 1949, May 1951, May 1954, May 1955, June 1958, February 1960, May 1970, May 1971, May 1972, May 1973.

“Final Survey Report Architectural/Historic Intensive Level Survey of the Claremore Downtown Historic District, Claremore, Oklahoma.” Prepared by Oklahoma State Historic Preservation Office, Susan Allen, Architectural Historian, Cynthia Smelker, Preservation Research Assistant, February 1996.

“Ann’s Cleaners Celebrates 40 years in Claremore,” Kristy Sturgill, Claremore Daily Progress. September 28, 2016.

The Pickin’ Queen – Pic-king up where others left off

Sandra Mathis picked a winner when she recently moved her Pickin’ Queen home décor store into downtown Claremore’s 418 West Will Rogers Boulevard building. This peaceful, century-old building conceals an extensive, eclectic past.

When urban developer JM Bayless completed his Sequoyah Hotel and Windsor Opera House (1902) on the western corners at Will Rogers Boulevard and Missouri Avenue, he purchased of G.W. Eaton the lot east of Eaton’s northeast corner building (now Sailor Antiques). Eaton’s corner brick housed Wilson Hardware and the Courthouse.

The Claremore Messenger enthusiastically printed, “JM Bayless has purchased the lot east of the courthouse and will begin at once the erection of a good stone building, with pressed brick front. It is to be 25×100 feet: two stories high in front and one in the rear.”(CM,3-24-1905). Plans were made to move the post office into the first floor of this Bayless building.

That September, Bayless “flipped” the enterprise selling the uncompleted project to T.S. Chambers (CM,8-11-1905). Soon after, “Official notice was received from the post office department… the bid of T.S. Chambers for the location of the post office next to the courthouse had been accepted by the post office department”(CP,9-23-1905). January 15, 1906, “After many delays and disappointments, the post office was finally moved into its new home”(CM,1-19-1906).

The Bayless-Chambers building has changed hands several times since 1906.

Long-time Claremore residents recall this building was once the Cadet Theater which took up residence shortly before 1942 (SWBT Directory, 1942).

Chester Baldwin reminisces, “I remember the Cadet Theater, …watching Saturday morning serials of which Andy Devine supposedly read from a ‘Buster Brown’ book, and narrated… the concession stand at the Cadet had a nickel glued to the glass counter top!”

A Claremore Museum of History document shared by Paula Davis adds, “On Saturdays the Cadet Theater showed a news reel, a cartoon, previews of coming attractions, the main feature, and a serial which was supposed to get the audience to come back the next Saturday. Once a month on Saturday morning, the Cadet Theater would host a talent show before the news reel. Whoever won the talent show would receive a free movie ticket for the following Saturday.”

When the theater closed, the Cadet Bowl bowling alley moved in. Randall Pickens, Sr. conjectures this happened sometime between 1955 and1958. He shared this 1958 advertisement. “Bowl at the Cadet Bowl. Bowling Alleys Open 1:00 P.M. Daily, 7 Days A Week. Four Alleys. Team Leagues. Private Parties.”

Chester Baldwin reminds us, “Don’t forget about the Merle Norman Cosmetic store that was in there for many years, run by Mrs. Bryant.” Lois Bryant’s Merle Norman Cosmetics Studio took up residence about 1971, remaining there for three decades.

Other businesses at this location were Out West Home Décor (circa 2004 – 2019), District Baby (2019 – 2021), and newest resident, Sandra Mathis’s The Pickin’ Queen (opened September 2021). Victor West, owns the 418 West Will Rogers building.

Mrs. Meeks, proprietress of Out West Décor described the interior of the Cadet Theater with its concession stand, ticket window, projector room, and tiled-floor bathroom spaces to the right and left of the entrance doors. These doorways still exist as entrances to the large display windows out front.

From post office, to movie theater, to bowling alley, to cosmetics studio, to baby clothes retail, and home décor, Claremore citizens cherish sweet memories of this Bayless-Chambers building’s entertaining and productive past. One can only imagine what the majestic future holds, now that the Pickin’ Queen has picked this building as the location of her royal domain.

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

This article was originally published in The Claremore Progress, Weekend Edition, September 18&19, 2021.

To read the longer, more detailed story, “The Pickin’ Queen – Pic-king up where others left off,” please click here.

Dr. Rachel Caroline Eaton – Author, Educator, and Ph.D. Part 1.

Dr. Rachel Caroline Eaton – Author, Educator, and Ph.D.  Part I.

Apply your heart to instruction and your ear to words of knowledge. ~ Hebrew Proverb.

Dr. Rachel Caroline Eaton. 1920 “Sagamore” Claremore High School Yearbook Photo. Rogers County Historical Society. Belvidere Mansion Archives. Used with permission.

Dr. Callie (Rachel Caroline) Eaton, the daughter of George Washington Eaton and Nancy Elizabeth Williams Eaton, was born July 7, 1869, Flint Creek, Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory, before Oklahoma statehood. Her known siblings are James Calvin “Cal” Eaton (1871 – 1947); Martha Pauline Eaton York (1877 – 1922); Joel Merritt Eaton (1879 – 1922); and Charley G. Eaton (1896 – 1896).[i]

Callie Eaton’s mother, Nancy (Nannie) Williams, was a young woman from a distinguished Cherokee family. Nannie Eaton was named for her ancestor Nancy Ward, a Cherokee woman of valor and influence,  known to the Cherokees as Ghi-ga-u (Beloved Woman), who, during the Revolutionary War, intervened to save the lives of white settlers on the western Tennessee boarder when the British and their allies planned a  campaign of annihilation against them.  Nannie Eaton was also “related to Ocona Stata, a chieftain of the Revolutionary War, and Sequoyah who wrote the Cherokee alphabet.”[ii] Nancy Williams married George W. Eaton who arrived in Cooweescoowee District, Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory, from Texas, after the Civil War.[iii] Miss Callie Eaton grew up in a log cabin located a few miles outside of Claremore, near Claremore Mound.[iv]

In a newspaper interview, Miss Callie Eaton reminisced, “‘The Cherokee government established schools, usually taught by a Cherokee,’ she said. ‘The old West Point* school was two miles south of where Claremore is now. I stayed in a log cabin with my grandmother and attended this school.’” Miss Eaton also attended the Female Cherokee Seminary, Tahlequah, Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory, and graduated June 28, 1888, along with other notables “Elizabeth Bushyhead McNair, Addie Roche Ross, James Alexander Burns, and William Norrid.” She became a “graduate of Drury College, Springfield, Mo.” It was in her home district that Miss Eaton “taught the first public subscription school in the community.”[v]

Eighteen ninety-six was a pivotal year for Miss Callie Eaton and her family. This was the year she was appointed by the National Board of Education, Cherokee Nation, to teach at the Female Seminary. This was the year that her youngest brother Charley G. Eaton died in August.[vi] This was also the year that Miss Eaton’s beloved mother died in September.[vii]

The obituary posted in The Claremore Progress read, “Mrs. Nancy Elizabeth Eaton, wife of George Eaton, died at her home in Cooweescoowee District, Cherokee Nation, I.T., September 21^st, 1896. She was of Cherokee parentage and was born in St. Louis, February 8^th, 1850. At the age of eighteen, she was married to her now sorrowing husband, Mr. George Eaton of Texas. The deceased had been in poor health for a number of years, and although she had been a great sufferer, yet she bore her affliction in patience, ever trustful and submissive to the will of God, whose precious promises were her support in the last trying hours of her life. She leaves behind a husband, an aged mother, and four children to mourn her departure. She will be sadly missed at home by them and also by a large circle of kindred friends who knew her but to appreciate and love her for her purity of life, gentleness of character, and Christian example. At the age of fifteen, she professed religion and joined the church and was a consistent member of the same up to the time of her death.  ‘Lo! The sufferer is released, Lightened of her fleshy load, Where the weary are at rest, She is gathered into God.’”[viii]

Miss Callie Eaton was, in January 1896 and 1897, appointed by The National Board of Education (Cherokee Nation) to the Female Seminary (a high school), at Tahlequah, Indian Territory, as first assistant to Miss A.F. Wilson, principal. In between teaching terms, she spent holidays with her family near Claremore.^[ix]

On March 4^th, 1898, Miss Eaton became Secretary for the newly organized University Association of Claremore, Indian Territory. The association was organized with “the following list of members: Rev. & Mrs. W.H. Shank, Mr. and Mrs. W.L. Moore, Mrs. J.M. LaHay, Mrs. John Bullette, Mrs. J.L. Comer, Mrs. A.G. Barhydt, Mrs. R.L. Comer, Mrs. M.D. Woodson, Mrs. W.S. Miles, Misses Laura Land, Caroline Eaton, Fay Reynolds, Nettie Flanary, Rev. O. P. Noble, Drs. J.C. Bushyhead and F.M. Duckworth, Messrs. W.R. Campbell, J.C. Barrett, J.F. McClellen, and A.L. Kates. Officers were duly elected as follows: Pres. Rev. W.H. Shank. Vice-Pres., Miss Laura Land. Sec’y, Miss Caroline Eaton. Treas., Mrs. J.M. LaHay. Instructor, Rev. O.P. Noble.”  Mrs. W.H. Shank gathered this group “to assist in raising the standard of moral or ethical settlement in Claremore.”[x]

With a compassionate heart towards the suffering of others, when “the people of Claremore became interested… in the move of the Kansas City Star to feed and clothe some of the starving people of Cuba,” Miss Eaton responded with donating clothing.[xi]

For the Cherokee Teacher’s Institute Program held at the Female Seminary July 5, 1898, that Wednesday morning after opening with music, invocation, and roll call, Miss Callie Eaton spoke to these educators gathered on the topic, “What is the Most Pressing Need in Our Schools.”[xii] One wonders what Miss Eaton considered to be that most pressing need confronting schools in 1898 and if she had a plan to meet that need.

That same month another professional transition was in the works. The Claremore Progress announced, Prof. Burns “secured the services of Miss Callie Eaton as first assistant of our school for the coming year. The Professor is to be congratulated on securing Miss Eaton as one of his faculty. She is fully equipped for the work, being highly educated, with a practical training in teaching, standing in the front ranks of the educators of the Territory, and withal a lady of refinement.”[xiii] A significant attachment would form between these two noteworthy educators.

But teaching and serving the wider public came with a cost. April 1899, it was announced, “Miss Callie Eaton, one of the teachers of our schools, has been seriously ill for the past two weeks with the measles. Her case has been one of the severest in town.”[xiv] Contacting measles as an adult presented a grave health situation. Thankfully, Miss Eaton recovered.

A visit from Miss C.W. Daniels, principal of Drury College, Springfield, Missouri, Miss Callie Eaton’s alma mater, was just the prescription to cheer her.[xv] Miss Callie Eaton’s sister, Miss Mattie Eaton would attend the school at Drury by 1900.[xvi]

There were many lively amusements created by the young people in Miss Eaton’s circle of friends.  One diversion was an enjoyable Moonlight Picnic attended with friends Zoe Bullette, Gazelle Lane, Dr. W.F. Hays, and Dr. F.M Duckworth. “The delightful entertainment given by Col. & Mrs. Francis A. Neilson Wednesday night, on their lawn at their pleasant home, was a social event long to be remembered by their many friends who were present. The night was an ideal one, the moon shedding its mellow light down upon the gay and happy throng, while sweet music by Rogers’s orchestra added enchantment in the pleasing scene as Claremore’s fair ones flitted hither and thither.  A unique feature of the evening’s entertainment was when each guest was presented with a card containing twelve conundrums…Miss Roberta Campbell and Mrs. W.W. Bryan answered an equal number correctly, but Miss Campbell secured the first prize, a set of three books by Charles Lamb (English poet), for being the best guesser on the number between one and one hundred. John Bullette was awarded the consolation prize, a currycomb, and John’s friends may expect an improvement in the appearance of his roadster if he succeeds in getting someone to use it.  At a seasonable hour, elegant refreshments were served, and the guests departed for home highly delighted with their evening’s entertainment, feeling, indeed, that it was pleasant to be a guest of Col. & Mrs. Neilson. The following guests were present… from our town: Rev. & Mrs. W.H. Shank, Judge & Mrs. H. Jennings, Mr. & Mrs. D.E. Kirkpatrick, Mr. & Mrs. W.H. Sanson, Dr. & Mrs. C.T. White, Mr. & Mrs. C.F. Godbey, Mr. & Mrs. M.D. Woodson, Mr. & Mrs. H.W. Patrick and daughter, Mr. & Mrs. D.J. Matthews and daughter, Mr. & Mrs. A.E. Diefendorf, Mr. & Mrs. E.S. Bessey, Mr. & Mrs. John Bullette, Mr. & Mrs. J.M. LaHay, Mr. & Mrs. J. Len Comer, Dr. & Mrs. W.W. Bryan, Mr. & Mrs. J. Herbert Moore, Mr. & Mrs. A.L. Kates, Mrs. B.W. Starr, Mrs. A.W. Linn, Mrs. C.P. Linn, Mrs. Geo. W. Hostetler, Mrs. A.G. Barhydt, Misses Callie Eaton, Ida Mae Collins, Minnie Hearns, Cora Hicks, Maud Bivins, Zoe Bullette, Gazelle Lane, Hazel Grey, Lillian Barhydt, Dr. W.F. Hays, Dr. F.M. Duckworth, Dr. G.D. Carl, W.H. Edmundson, A.F. Parsley, Will Musgrove, Geo. F. Ross, W.R. Campbell, and J.D. Engleman.”[xvii]  What a charming vision of Claremore society is cast in this description of Col. & Mrs. Neilson’s gracious picnic in the moonlight.

According to the Claremore Courier, August 1899, when the Board of Education met to select teachers for the ensuing year, “four teachers were selected from the list of sixteen applicants. Those selected, with salaries, are as follows: First assistant, Miss Callie Eaton, $50 per month; grade teachers, Mr. Spratt Scott. Miss Jennie Foreman, Miss Juliette Schrimsher, $35 per month each.”[xviii] Plans for the new school year were set, and Miss Eaton’s role as an educator of excellence was confirmed in being rehired.

Once again Miss Callie Eaton joined her friends in September 1899, at a reception given by Miss Zoe Bullette. The Claremore Courier shared the details. “Wednesday evening quite a number of Miss Zoe Bullette’s friends, in response to previous invitation, assembled at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Bullette. Everyone anticipated a good time and all anticipations were realized, with a handsome margin. Every effort had been made for the entertainment of guests. Music, cards, and dancing were on the program, and it is difficult to say which was most enjoyed. Mr. Bullette said it reminded him of the time when he used to jump cracks in puncheon floors (characteristic of pioneer cabin floors, made of logs flattened on the top side) near Tahlequah, and being unable to restrain himself he just showed those presents how a young man of his age could dance. Then there was an innovation in the way of a competitive artwork. Cards were distributed, each bearing the name of some well-known song, and the guests were to illustrate these songs. Enough talent was displayed to start an art institute. It was finally decided by the judges that Miss Nellie Frakes should have first prize, a good luck emblem, and “Billy” Campbell being so far in the rear was given a bottle of ketchup that he might ‘catch up.’ Miss Galloway recited a few interesting selections, after which pickles, sandwiches, coffee, cake, and ice cream suddenly put in their appearance. They just as suddenly disappeared, to the intense delight of the guests. Miss Bullette is a royal entertainer, and it was with reluctance that her friends departed for their homes. Those present were Misses Barrett, Collins, Duckworth, Mattie and Callie Eaton, Frakes, Galloway, Johnson, Kirkpatrick, Kearns, Loy, Lane, and Simpson; Messrs. Bessey, Campbell, Car, Duckworth, Edmundson, Hale, Linn, Lane, and Ramsey.”[xix]

At the Program of the Teachers’ Association held at Wagoner, Indian Territory, December 28, 29, and 30, 1899, during the second day’s afternoon session Miss Caroline Eaton of Claremore spoke. Her topic was “American Literature in the Public Schools.”[xx] The following year the third annual meeting of the Indian Territory Teachers’ Association was held at South McAlester December 27, 28, and 29, 1900. Miss Eaton was in attendance.[xxi]

Teachers of excellence such as Miss Ida Mae Collins, Miss Callie Eaton, and Misses Bessie and Juliette Schrimsher attended the normal at Tahlequah to hone their teaching skills during the summer of June 1900.[xxii] The larger roster of students from Claremore included Juliet Schrimsher, Cora Hicks, Ida Mae Collins, Bessie Collins, Mrs. G.B. Scott, Mrs. Joanna Duncan, Callie Eaton, and Mattie Eaton.[xxiii] [A “Normal” school trains teachers.] This was also the summer that Prof. J.A. Burns was hired away from Claremore and became, thereafter, principal at the Nowata school.[xxiv]

The January 1901 school term was off to a rough start. Claremore’s Daily Messenger announced, “Miss Callie Eaton, first assistant teacher of the public schools, was obliged to dismiss her classes after recess today on account of illness.”[xxv]Thereafter, Miss Eaton was recorded as “on the sick list this week and her sister, Miss Mattie has been teaching in her room.”[xxvi] In a further health crisis that May 1901, “Miss Callie Eaton was called to Hot Springs, Ark., this week by the serious illness of her brother Merritt, who is there for his health.”[xxvii]

Miss Callie Eaton was awarded the opportunity to go to Chicago, when the summer of July 1901 arrived, “to attend normal school, but will return home in time to take charge of her room in the Claremore Public Schools.” The Daily Messenger praised, “Miss Eaton is one of the very few educators in the Territory who spare neither expense nor study to keep thoroughly posted in all modern methods of school work.”[xxviii] She returned from her Chicago adventure that August (1901) inspired to begin another successful school year.[xxix] There were more special plans ahead in Miss Eaton’s future.

December 23, 1901, a surprise announcement was made. “Christmas Wedding. Wedding bells will mingle their chimes with the Christmas bells Wednesday night when Prof. J.A. Burns, of Nowata’s public school, and Miss Callie Eaton, one of the faculty of Claremore’s public school are united in marriage. The announcement of this wedding is much of a surprise. While its possibility had been taken into consideration in social circles, the professor has made his visits to Claremore of such modest frequency and timed them so judiciously as to completely forestall any premature gossip. The wedding will be a quiet one and will take place at the family home on the east side. Only relatives and intimate friends will be present.”[xxx]

By necessity of what was transpiring in Miss Eaton’s personal life, a meeting of the school board was called “for the purpose of taking action on the resignation of the first assistant, Miss Callie Eaton, which was filed with the board yesterday, and the selection of her successor. Those present were, President A. Hale, Secretary J.B. Barrett, and members R.L. Hill and Jack Mathews. James Brown and Dr. Bushyhead were absent. Miss Callie Eaton’s resignation was accepted. The following made application for the position: J.O. Yahn, Miss Mattie Eaton, Miss Ida Mae Collins, and Miss Rose. On the first vote, the board evenly divided on Miss Collins and Miss Eaton, but after discussion, Miss Mattie Eaton was unanimously chosen.”[xxxi] This was happy mid-schoolyear news for Miss Callie Eaton’s sister.

The Eaton family celebrated the romantic Christmas wedding on December 25, 1901. “Burns-Eaton. At the home of the bride, Christmas evening at half-past six o’clock, Prof. J.A. Burns and Caroline Eaton were quietly married in the presence of a few friends and relatives, Rev. Shank officiating. Prof. Burns is principal of Nowata’s public schools. He was for a succession of terms, principal of the Claremore Public Schools, and has a host of warm admirers and friends in this city.  The bride is one of Claremore’s most popular ladies. She has for several years been prominently identified with the educational interests of the Nation, but for the past three years has devoted her time with very marked success to the public-school work in Claremore.  The following guests were present: Mr. and Mrs. B. Thurman, the Misses Phillips of Nowata, Miss Zoe Bullette, Miss Nona Neilson, Mr. York, Mr. Earnest Schrimsher, and Drs. Hayes and Duckworth. The bride and groom were supported by Dr. Hayes and Miss Mattie Eaton. Prof. and Mrs. Burns left on the 9 o’clock train for Nowata where they will make their future home. The Messenger joins with their host of friends in wishing them a long and happy married life.”[xxxii] This was a profound way to end a productive year. The years ahead would prove more difficult.

To continue reading “Dr. Rachel Caroline Eaton – Author, Educator, and Ph.D.  Part 2,” please click here.

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Sources:

Unless otherwise noted, Oklahoma newspapers are sourced through The Gateway to Oklahoma History, http://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

[i]https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33946760/rachel-caroline-eaton Accessed: April 22, 2020.

Rachel Caroline “Callie” Eaton. Birth July 7, 1869, Oklahoma. Death 20 Sep 1938 (aged 69) Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-1.-L18-5E. Memorial ID 33946760. Parents George Washington Eaton (1845-1929) Nancy E. Eaton (1851-1896). Siblings James Calvin Eaton (1871 – 1947); Martha Pauline Eaton York (1877 – 1922); Joel Merritt Eaton (1879 – 1922); Charley G. Eaton (1896 – 1896).

https://www.okhistory.org/research/dawesresults.php?fname=rachel&lname=eaton&tribe=&rollnum=&cardnum=&action=Search

Rachel C. Eaton Cherokee Dawes Roll: Age 33. Sex F. Blood 1/64. Roll #11376. Tribe Cherokee by Blood. Card #4743. Note: Marriage to J.A. Burns (non-citizen) on Dec. 25, 1901.

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/8459557/nancy-e_-eaton Accessed: April 22, 2020.

Mother: Nancy E. Eaton Birth 8 Feb 1851. Death 21 Sept 1896 (aged 45). Burial Oowala Cemetery, Oowala, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot 32. Memorial ID 8459557.

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33947584/george-washington-eaton Accessed: July 27, 2020.

Father: George Washington Eaton. Birth 1845. Death 1929 (aged 83-84). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-1.-L18-4E. Memorial ID 33947584. Spouse Nancy E. Eaton

[ii] “Dr. Caroline Eaton. Head of Rogers county Schools,” by Rosalie Mills. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 30, No. 31, Ed. 1 Thursday, September 14, 1922. Accessed: March 5, 2019.

Starr, Emmet.  History of the Cherokee Indians. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Warden, New York: Kraus Reprint. Published 1921. p. 468-471.

The heroic story of Ghi-ga-u,  Nancy Ward, is well worth the read. You can access it by clicking the link below. https://archive.org/details/historyofcheroke00lcstar/page/468/mode/2up?q=nancy+ward  

[iii] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 4, No. 34, Ed. 1 Saturday, September 26, 1896. Accessed: February 16, 2020.

[iv] “Dr. Caroline Eaton. Head of Rogers county Schools,” by Rosalie Mills. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 30, No. 31, Ed. 1 Thursday, September 14, 1922. Accessed: March 5, 2019.

[v]Starr, Emmet.  History of the Cherokee Indians. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Warden, New York: Kraus Reprint. Published 1921. https://archive.org/details/historyofcheroke0000star/page/664/mode/2up?q=rachel+caroline+eaton  Accessed: August 21, 2020.

     “The school previously located at White Springs near Lacey      Hawkins’ was removed by council in the spring of 1869 to West Point ‘near the mouth of Dog Creek'” [Starr, 228].

“Dr. Caroline Eaton. Head of Rogers county Schools,” by Rosalie Mills. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 30, No. 31, Ed. 1 Thursday, September 14, 1922. Accessed: March 5, 2019.

[vi] https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/8459545/charley-g-eaton Accessed July 25, 2020. Charley G. Eaton. Birth 9 April 1896. Death August 1896 (aged 3-4 months). Burial Oowala Cemetery, Owala, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot 38. Memorial ID 8459545. Parents George Washington Eaton (1845-1929) Nancy E. Eaton (1851-1896).

[vii]Marrs, D. M. The Indian Chieftain. (Vinita, Indian Terr.), Vol. 14, No. 19, Ed. 1, Thursday, January 9, 1896. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

Charley G. Eaton (1896 – 1896).

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/8459557/nancy-e_-eaton Accessed: April 22, 2020.

Nancy E. Eaton. Birth 8 Feb 1851. Death 21 Sept 1896 (aged 45). Burial Oowala Cemetery, Oowala, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot 32. Memorial ID 8459557.

[viii] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 4, No. 34, Ed. 1 Saturday, September 26, 1896. Accessed: February 16, 2020.

[ix] Marrs, D. M. The Indian Chieftain. (Vinita, Indian Terr.), Vol. 14, No. 19, Ed. 1, Thursday, January 9, 1896. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 4, No. 49, Ed. 1 Saturday, January 9, 1897.  Accessed: April 22, 2020.

The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 5, No. 47, Ed. 1 Saturday, January 1, 1898. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[x]The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 6, No. 5, Ed. 1 Saturday, March 12, 1898.  Accessed: April 22, 2020.

[xi] Hudson, Waddie. The Tahlequah Arrow. (Tahlequah, Indian Terr.), Vol. 11, No. 43, Ed. 1 Saturday, July 2, 1898. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xii] Hudson, Waddie. The Tahlequah Arrow. (Tahlequah, Indian Terr.), Vol. 11, No. 43, Ed. 1 Saturday, July 2, 1898. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xiii] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 6, No. 25, Ed. 1 Saturday, July 30, 1898. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xiv] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 7, No. 10, Ed. 1 Saturday, April 15, 1899. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xv] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 8, No. 8, Ed. 1 Saturday, June 9, 1900. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xvi] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 8, No. 8, Ed. 1 Saturday, June 9, 1900. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xvii] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 7, No. 20, Ed. 1 Saturday, June 24, 1899. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xviii] Edmundson, W. H. The Claremore Courier. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 1, No. 42, Ed. 1 Friday, August 4, 1899. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xix] Edmundson, W. H. The Claremore Courier. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 1, No. 48, Ed. 1 Friday, September 15, 1899. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xx] Marrs, D. M. The Daily Chieftain. (Vinita, Indian Terr.), Vol. 2, No. 61, Ed. 1 Monday, December 11, 1899. Accessed: April 22, 2020.

[xxi] The Daily Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 2, No. 20, Ed. 1 Tuesday, December 18, 1900. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xxii] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 8, No. 8, Ed. 1 Saturday, June 9, 1900. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xxiii] Patton, J. W. & Shields, F. P. The Indian Sentinel. (Tahlequah, Indian Terr.), Vol. 10, No. 51, Ed. 1 Friday, June 22, 1900. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xxiv] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 8, No. 18, Ed. 1 Saturday, August 18, 1900. Accessed: May 15, 2020.

[xxv] The Daily Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 2, No. 48, Ed. 1 Monday, January 21, 1901. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xxvi] The Daily Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 2, No. 48, Ed. 1 Monday, January 21, 1901. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xxvii] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 9, No. 14, Ed. 1 Saturday, May 18, 1901. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xxviii] The Daily Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 2, No. 196, Ed. 1 Saturday, July 13, 1901. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xxix] The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 9, No. 29, Ed. 1 Saturday, August 31, 1901. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xxx] Latta, T. A. The Daily Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 3, No. 20, Ed. 1 Monday, December 23, 1901. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xxxi] Latta, T. A. The Daily Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 3, No. 21, Ed. 1 Tuesday, December 24, 1901. Accessed: April 26, 2020.

[xxxii] Latta, T. A. The Daily Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 3, No. 22, Ed. 1 Thursday, December 26, 1901. Accessed: April 22, 2020.

York-Eaton Wedding – June 26, 1902

The Quiet June Wedding of James Mooring York and Miss Martha Pauline Eaton, June 26, 1902.

“York- Eaton. At the residence of the bride’s father in the east part of town Thursday evening (June 26, 1902) at half-past eight o’clock, Mr. James Mooring York and Miss Martha Pauline Eaton[1] were united in marriage by the Rev. D.N. Allen of the Tahlequah Presbyterian pastorate.

“The bride is a daughter of G.W. Eaton, one of Claremore’s most progressive and highly respected citizens, and a prominent member of the town’s best social circle. The groom came to Claremore about two years ago since which time he has been connected with the large mercantile firm of Barndollar, Bartles & Neilson. He is a gentleman of exemplary habits and Christian character and has made a host of friends.

“The wedding was a quiet affair, only the intimate friends and members of the family being present. The happy couple will commence housekeeping in Mrs. Nell Ross’ house on Cherokee avenue where they will be at home to their friends after July first. The Messenger extends kindly congratulations and hopes for them a long, happy and exceeding peaceful voyage.

“Those present were Messrs. and Mesdames F.A. Neilson (daughter of Nannie Bartles), Jack Mathews, D. Thurman and Dr. and Mrs. Duckworth (Mable Zoe Bullette Duckworth); Miss Ray Miller of Vinita; Dr. Hays and Mr. Mathews.”[2]

Sources:

[1]https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/28566242/martha-pauline-york. Accessed May 9, 2019.

Martha Pauline Eaton York. Daughter of George Washington Eaton (1845 – 1929) and Nancy E. Eaton (1851 – 1896). Birth 1877. Death 1943 (aged 65-66). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CPs-1.-L18-1E.

Spouse: James Mooring York (1868-1947). Children: George Eaton York (1903 – 1973), James Mooring York (1905 – 1994), Grady L York (1912 – 2004).

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/28566289/james-mooring-york. Accessed: May 9, 2019.

James Mooring York. Birth 1868. Death 1947 (aged 78 – 79). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-1.-L18-2E.

[2]Latta, T. A. The Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 8, No. 15, Ed. 1 Friday, June 27, 1902, newspaper, June 27, 1902; Claremore, Indian Territory. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc177908/: accessed May 9, 2019), The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

 

Tour the Town – Johnson-Gorey Buildings

Tour the Town, Part 8  – The Northeast Side of Third Street Between Missouri and Cherokee Avenues, Claremore, Oklahoma. Click to read Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6 or Part 7. Tour the Town – Johnson – Gorey Buildings

Northeast side of “Third Street (aka Will Rogers Boulevard) looking east, Claremore, Okla.” at Missouri Avenue: Tall two-story brick buildings left to right: Wilson & Sons Hardware (GW Eaton, built 1902); Post Office – Forest Building (JM Bayless & T.C. Chambers, built 1905); Hotel Oxford – Burns Building (with the arched window – Dr. Callie Eaton-Burns, built 1905); M.B. Church Ladies’ Specialty Store, Royal Rooms, Pool (Billiards), Loomis Building (B.F. Loomis, built 1905/6); W.S. Johnson Building, R.M. Gorey Building. Postcard Publisher: C.T. Photochrom. # R-65248. Humbug Circus Parade, June 8, 1915. Source: C. Rice Collection.

The Johnson – Gorey Buildings (Lots 5 & 6)

In Claremore’s early days, non-resident real estate investors like B.F. Loomis, J.M. Bayless, Dr. W.S. Johnson, and others, came to Claremore to stake their claims, investing in the future of this pioneer town traversed by two railroads. Investors made fugacious appearances, short and quick, periodically checking on the status of their business ventures. Some fell in love with Claremore and decided to stay for a while. Unequivocally, the same thing happens today.

Richard Morris Gorey was one of these investors. In September 1905, he made a significant expenditure, along with S.S. Steel and others, with the purchase of the Julie Scruggs property – “lots 6, 7, 8, Block 105, Claremore, $3050.”[1] This property, located on the north side of Third Street (aka Will Rogers Boulevard) between Cherokee and Muskogee Avenues (the current space between Dot’s Café, Dorothy’s Flowers and 304 West, 2019), would not be developed for many years in the future.

The Claremore Progress  did report, half a year later, that Mr. Gorey “was greatly pleased with the growth of the town.”[2] In fact, the Gorey family was so impressed with Claremore that by 1907 at least two of the four Gorey sons were enrolled in Claremore’s public schools becoming exemplary students. Clay Gorey, in 7^thgrade, and Willis Gorey, in 5^thgrade, were placed on the Honor Roll for their noteworthy scholarship.[3] R.M. Gorey served in the community on Democrat committees and his wife, Lavina Gorey, devoted her life to duties in the home.[4]

Mr. Gorey became the proprietor of the Royal rooming house on the second floor of the B.F. Loomis Building (408/410 Will Rogers Boulevard).[5]

Not long after moving to Claremore, Lavina V. Darland Gorey[6] became quite ill. In fact, she became so very ill that she died,[7] leaving behind her husband, four sons (three of whom were quite young) and seven siblings to mourn her loss. “Mrs. Gorey was one of the most modest, refined Christian characters it has been our pleasure to meet,” declared a friend in The Claremore Progress. “She was a woman whose life was exemplary, loving and kind in her home, had small acquaintance in this city because of her devotion to her home, but all who knew her loved her for her admirable qualities and sweet disposition.”[8]

The owner of the Loomis Building, absentee landlord B.F. Loomis of Kansas City, attended the funeral of Mrs. Gorey, looking after business matters while he was in town.[9]

In his grief, Mr. Gorey sold his lease to the Royal rooming house, as well as the furniture and business.[10] He left Claremore taking business trips to Tulsa and Broken Arrow and then traveled west to Washington State to visit one of his sons who was living there.[11]

As Gorey was planning his departure, B.F. Loomis sold lots 6, 7 and 8 in Block 106, Claremore, to W.S. Johnson for $24,000.[12] Lots 7 & 8 held the brick two-story Loomis Building which housed the Royal/Oxford rooming house (aka once Homeward Bound-now the Red Rock building- 410 W. Will Rogers Boulevard). Lot 6 stood vacant. Afterward, Loomis left for Arkansas to take up farming, literally making hay.[13] The B.F. Loomis Building and all its woes were now in the possession of another non-resident owner, Dr. W.S. Johnson professor of philosophy and pedagogy (the art, science, or profession of teaching; especially: education[14]) at the State University School of Fayetteville, Arkansas.[15]

Dr. William Smyth Johnson[16] was born on October 8, 1869, near Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He received his B.A. (A.B. – 1890) and honorary M.A. (A.M. – 1893) degrees from Ouachita College and Ph.D. from Yale (1899). Dr. Johnson was a professor of philosophy at Yale and the University of Cincinnati; taught at the Normal College of Louisiana; was head of the philosophy and pedagogy department at the University of Arkansas; and was president of the Agricultural School at Helena, Oklahoma. The History of the University of Arkansas (1910) informs, “He was a Democrat and a Baptist. April 26, 1903, he married Miss Ilma Leche[17] of Donaldsville, La. They have one daughter.”[18] It was this very intelligent and well-educated Dr. Johnson who came to Claremore to further develop its main street.

The new owner of the B.F. Loomis Building, Prof. Johnson, did not waste time whipping the Oxford rooming house into shape. He instigated extensive repairs be made in the rooms, “putting in baths, toilets, and a new office.”[19] Apparently the name “Oxford” was discarded as well with the restoration. “Oxford Hotel” disappeared from the local news never to be resurrected again. As remodeling progressed, Prof. W.S. Johnson, wife and baby came to Claremore from Fayetteville for a visit.[20]

Prof. Johnson had bigger development plans than just the B.F. Loomis Building restoration in mind.  Upon investor R.M. Gorey’s return to Oklahoma, Johnson and Gorey teamed up to advance the building development of the north side of Third Street, working towards the east, towards the Cherokee Avenue corner.

The Claremore Progress, September 1908, reported, “Will Build At Once. Prof. S.L.[W.]  Johnson, of Fayetteville, Ark., who owns the lot next to the Loomis Building on Third street, and R.M. Gorey, who owns the next lot, will at once erect two 25×100 feet business houses. The second story will be extended back forty feet and will be arranged in suites for offices. It will be an up-to-date building and both storerooms have been rented.”[21]

But building preparations took time; winter turned to spring without breaking ground. Summer was the occasion to start the project. March 1909, the announcement was made in The Claremore Messenger.

“Another Two-Story Block – Johnson & Gorey Decide to Build on their Lot Adjoining Eagle Café. The announcement was made this week that Dr. Johnson, of Fayetteville, Ark. and R.M. Gorey would construct a modern two-story business on their Third street lot adjoining the Eagle Café and the work will begin at once. The plans have been prepared by J.W. Roberts, Claremore’s skilled architect, and bids are being received this week at his office for the work. The building is to be 100 x 50 feet, the front to be of dark mottled pressed brick. There will be downstairs two storerooms, with a stairway in the center from Third Street, and the second floor, about half as long as the first floor, will be fitted up for offices. Both floors will be modern in every respect, plumbed for gas and city water, and finished in a nice fascinating manner. This is only one more of many that will be added to the building boom here this summer.”[22]

In April 1909, “W.S. Johnson, of Fayetteville, Ark., and R.M. Gorey on Saturday closed a contract with R.D. Pollard, formerly of Kansas City, for the erection of a fifty-foot front brick on lots 5 and 6 in block 106, on Third Street next to the Loomis Building (owned by Johnson). It will be one hundred feet in depth and the second story will be extended back fifty feet. The front will be gray brick and will be one of the most modern fronts in Claremore, and will add much to the appearance of Third Street.”[23] [This stretch of buildings today houses the ground floor District on Main and second-floor Studio 99 (later Ethos Yoga) with their pre-1909 advertisement “ghost walls.” To the east of these is Coleman Antiques (later Rhodes Printing).]

By August 1909, new tenants began moving into the Johnson-Gorey building.  The County Clerk and County Treasurer’s office (rent of county offices for three months was $105.00[24]) “moved to the upper floor of the new Johnson-Gorey building. Much more commodious and convenient than they have had here-to-fore.”[25] The Aristo Studio of Vinnemeier & Atkinson, a newly established picture gallery was “located on the second floor of the new brick Gorey building just four stairways east of the post office.”[26] H.H. Makemson “moved his real estate office to the new Johnson-Gorey building.”[27] In November, The Epworth League of the First M.E. Church gave “an oyster supper … in the Gorey building, one door east of (C.S. Leacock’s[28]) Cash Grocery.”[29] January 1910, Bowers Bros. leased the east room of the Johnson-Gorey Building and opened a Variety Store,[30] and Fred C. Gilmore, realtor moved into Room 2.[31]

In the meantime, W.S. Johnson refurbished the second floor of his building renaming it the “Capitol Hotel. Newly Furnished – European Plan. Convenient to Radium Baths and Dairy Restaurants. Phone 101. 408-410 W. Third Street,” in May 1910,[32]  in the Loomis/Johnson building next door. (European plan means only room but no meals are included in the rent.)

February 1911, G.W. Eaton lost the contract for housing the county courthouse in his building on the northeast corner of Missouri Avenue and Third Street above the Wilson Hardware Store.  The county courthouse had resided there since Eaton opened his building in 1902.[33] Moving Day was quickly executed. “Thursday is ‘moving day’ with the county officials. When Geo. W. Eaton learned that he had lost the contract for the courthouse, he at once gave notice that he wanted his building vacated at once, and the officers, taking him at his word, at once got busy looking for new quarters. Wednesday being a holiday (Remember when George Washington’s Birthday, February 22, was a holiday?), the county officials put in the day looking for the new quarters, which were not so hard to find as it was expected they would be, and on Thursday all were ready to move to their new quarters. Sheriff Sanders, Judge Kight, and District Clerk Lee Settle moved into the new O’Brien building. County Superintendent B.H. Hester and County Surveyor F.H. Boyd moved into the Gorey building and Wm. P. Payne, register of deeds will remain in his old office until the new courthouse building is completed.”[34]

Later that year, 1911, “William Webber purchased of A.T. Holsburg the Electric theater in the Johnson-Gorey block.  Mr. Holsburg seven months ago opened this theater here and has enjoyed a prosperous business all along, and we have found him to be an upright businessman. Mr. Webber has been connected for some time with the Glasgow Hardware Co., and he has made many friends by his social and courteous disposition. We believe that the Electric will be even more prosperous under Mr. Webber’s management.”[35]

Smith, Hunt & Lynch, the law firm of W.N. Smith, Mr. Hunt, and H.L. Lynch acquired offices in the Johnson-Gorey building.[36] And when Attorney E. W. Stewart returned to Claremore, he moved his office to the Gorey building as well.[37]

Good news was in store for W.S. Johnson in June 1917. He left his position at the University of Arkansas to take the job as president of the Agricultural School at Helena, Oklahoma.[38] Unfortunately, that school was closed. But this disappointment was to Claremore’s advantage.  The Claremore Progress announced, “Claremore to Have Excellent Accredited High School – That Claremore is to have an accredited high school of high rank is now an assured fact. The board of education has been working very carefully in the matter and will soon be able to announce the completed organization of a first-class four-year high school. At their meeting on Tuesday night, Prof. W.S. Johnson, for the last two years president of the lately abolished agricultural school at Helena, Ok., was unanimously elected principal. Dr. Johnson is a Yale graduate, was for a number of years professor of education at the University of Arkansas, and has had the advantage of study and travel in Europe. The board feels itself fortunate to secure the services of so qualified a man.”[39]

Forty-eight-year-old William Johnson and his wife, Ilma, became active members of the Claremore community. Mrs. Johnson, a talented vocalist performed at local events; she was active in the Baptist church’s Baptist Women’s Society and attended Baptist church conventions.[40]  Dr. Johnson served at the high school and became chairman of the Council of Defense for the School District.[41] He continued caring for his town properties that are still important fixtures in Claremore’s downtown streetscape today.

All too soon, it was announced, January 1, 1920, that Dr. and Mrs. Johnson were leaving Claremore and returning to Arkansas. The Claremore Progress wrote, “D. Ferrara, real estate man, recently made a big town property deal in Claremore. He sold the Johnston apartments (presumably the former Loomis building’s second floor) building to J.M. Bridewell, the consideration being $29,000. This is one of the biggest deals made in Claremore for some time. Dr. W.S. Johnson, past-owner, and wife are going to their fruit farm in Arkansas to reside.”[42]

Claremore is so blessed to have such a unique historic downtown business district.  The buildings on the north side of Claremore’s 400 block are an authentic example of early 20^thcentury architecture.  Moving from frame to more substantial brick and mortar buildings, these edifices with their classic lines and designs, have stood the test of time. Though each has a character all its own, the individual buildings were intended to be parts of a whole.  Two of the buildings on the stretch of road were destroyed by fire, but this scape that remains is one of the best that Claremore has to offer.  Names like Eaton, Bayless, Chambers, Burns, Loomis, Gorey and Johnson may one day be forgotten, but the buildings they created live on to be preserved and appreciated by future generations.

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Sources:

Unless otherwise noted, newspaper articles are sourced through The Gateway to Oklahoma History, gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

[1]The Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 13, No. 34, Ed. 1 Saturday, September 16, 1905, .Claremore, Indian Territory. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc182847/: accessed May 13, 2019).

[2]Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 14, No. 40, Ed. 1 Saturday, October 27, 1906, .Claremore, Indian Territory. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc183301/:accessed May 13, 2019).

[3]Smith, Clark. The Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 13, No. 46, Ed. 1 Friday, November 15, 1907, Claremore, Indian Territory. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178173/: accessed May 13, 2019).

[4]Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 11, Ed. 1 Saturday, April 4, 1908, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc182008/: accessed May 13, 2019).

[5]Smith, Clark. Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 13, No. 20, Ed. 1 Friday, May 8, 1908, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178196/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[6]Perhaps:  https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33788439/lavina-viola-gorey. Accessed May 6, 2019. Lavina Viola Darland Gorey. Birth Nov 16, 1865, Poweshiek County, Iowa. Death May 6, 1908 (aged 42-43) Rogers County, Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery. Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP1-D.-L4.-6E. Spouse: Richard Morris Gorey. Birth 17 June 1860, Wisconsin. Death 28 Dec 1948 (aged 88), Tulsa, Tulsa County, Oklahoma. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP1-D.-L4.-5E.

Perhaps: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33788455/richard-morris-gorey. Accessed May 6, 2019.

Children: perhaps: Willis Gorey 5^thgrade; Clay Gorey, Seventh Grade Honor Roll Claremore Progress Dec. 14, 1907.

William Clay Gorey. Claremore Progress August 12, 1915.

Perhaps:. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/77162376/willis-h-gorey. Accessed May 6, 2019.

Willis H. Corey 1895 – 1976. Burial Rose Hill Memorial Park, Tulsa, Tulsa County, Oklahoma. Plot Section Abbey 3^rdL – 1639 Row J

[7]Smith, Clark. Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 13, No. 20, Ed. 1 Friday, May 8, 1908, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178196/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[8]Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 16, Ed. 1 Saturday, May 9, 1908, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181979/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[9]Smith, Clark. Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 13, No. 20, Ed. 1 Friday, May 8, 1908, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178196/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[10]Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 19, Ed. 1 Saturday, May 30, 1908, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181920/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[11]Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 17, Ed. 1 Saturday, May 16, 1908, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc183164/: accessed May 13, 2019).

[12]Smith, Clark. Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 13, No. 23, Ed. 1 Friday, May 29, 1908,  Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178199/: accessed May 13, 2019).

[13]Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 25, Ed. 1 Saturday, July 11, 1908, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc182100/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[14]Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

[15]Harper, W. R. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 51, Ed. 1 Friday, January 28, 1910, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181176/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[16]Perhaps: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/6892466/william-s_-johnson

William S. Johnson. Birth 8 Oct 1869. Death 12 Jul 1955 (aged 85). Burial Rose Hill Cemetery. Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas. Plot 2S.

[17]Perhaps:https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/86703107/ilma-l_-johnson

Birth 27 Nov 1884. Death 12 Aug 1947 (aged 62). Burial Evergreen Cemetery. Fayetteville, Washington County Arkansas.

[18]Reynolds, John Hugh. Thomas, David Yancey. History of the University of Arkansas. University of Arkansas: Fayetteville. Copyright 1910. p.475-476. https://books.google.com/books?id=OUlAAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA474&lpg=PA474&dq=william+smythe+johnson+arkansas&source=bl&ots=Ms8BV5165R&sig=ACfU3U2RtnINn952U_SsYkhhI7kdzCrJYQ&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjI2_HyvaDiAhUEeKwKHd-oC_Q4ChDoATAIegQICBAB#v=onepage&q=william%20smythe%20johnson%20arkansas&f=false. Accessed: May 15, 2019.

[19]Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 25, Ed. 1 Saturday, July 11, 1908, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc182100/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[20]Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 28, Ed. 1 Saturday, August 1, 1908, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc182387/: accessed May 13, 2019).

[21]Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 34, Ed. 1 Saturday, September 12, 1908,  Claremore, Oklahoma. (gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc183483/: accessed February 23, 2019).

[22]Smith, Clark. Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 14, No. 12, Ed. 1 Friday, March 12, 1909, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178251/: accessed May 13, 2019).

[23]Claremore Progress. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 10, Ed. 1 Saturday, April 17, 1909, Claremore, Oklahoma. (gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc182471/: accessed February 23, 2019).

[24]Smith, Clark. Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 15, No. 21, Ed. 1 Friday, February 11, 1910, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178311/: accessed May 13, 2019).

[25]Harper, W. R. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 27, Ed. 1 Friday, August 13, 1909. Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181152/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[26]Seq 5 Harper, W. R., editor. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 28, Ed. 1 Friday, August 20, 1909, (http://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181153/ : accessed May 21, 2017).

[27]Harper, W. R. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 29, Ed. 1 Friday, August 27, 1909, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181154/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[28]Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 15, No. 24, Ed. 1 Friday, March 4, 1910, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc178314/: accessed May 13, 2019).

[29]Harper, W. R. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 49, Ed. 1 Friday, November 12, 1909, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181165/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[30]Harper, W. R. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 51, Ed. 1 Friday, January 28, 1910, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181176/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[31]Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 13, Ed. 1 Friday, May 6, 1910, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181190/:accessed May 6, 2019).

[32]Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 14, Ed. 1 Friday, May 13, 1910, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181191/: accessed May 5, 2019).

[33]Latta, T. A. The Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Indian Terr.), Vol. 8, No. 21, Ed. 1 Friday, August 8, 1902, Claremore, Indian Territory. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc177913/: accessed May 10, 2019).

[34]Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 4, Ed. 1 Friday, February 24, 1911, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181229/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[35]Larner, J. H. The Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 3, No. 7, Ed. 1 Thursday, April 20, 1911, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc956772/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[36]Harper, William R. Rogers County Leader. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 1, No. 77, Ed. 1 Friday, August 25, 1911, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc956052/:accessed May 6, 2019).

[37]Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 43, Ed. 1 Friday, November 24, 1911, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181267/: accessed May 6, 2019).

[38]Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 23, No. 17, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 3, 1915, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181553/: accessed May 13, 2019)..

[39]Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 25, No. 19, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 7, 1917, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181803/:accessed May 13, 2019).

[40]Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 45, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 28, 1918, Claremore, Oklahoma. (gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181912/:accessed April 11, 2018).

[41]Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 26, No. 21, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 13, 1918, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc181810/:accessed May 16, 2019).

[42]Kates, W. C. The Claremore Progress (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 28, No. 5, Ed. 1 Thursday, January 1, 1920, Claremore, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc182286/:accessed May 15, 2019).

Story updated 2-22-2024.