News of 1858 -1859

 

NEWS OF 1858

Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - February 3, 1858 - Page 2

An Alabamian in Texas
The January number of the Cotton Planter, published in Montgomery, Alabama, has been placed in our hands by a friend and our attention directed to the following paragraph, which appears in a communication from Mr. D. W. Bozeman, of Coosa county. The paragraph reads as follows:
     “I will now return to Harrison county May 15, 1857. From this county, I went in a South-western direction to the Trinity River; this portion of Texas, is a poor country generally; the citizens brag on the water, but I think it the most inferior water for use, in the State; it contains iron, alum, sulphur, &c., making it a sour water, which is productive of serious bowel infections. Lands here are of but little durability, through free while fresh; it will wash, and a Southern sun will kill its production, being sandy and light. At Pine Bluff, in Freestone County, the Trinity River is a nasty, sickly little stream, of no value to the country for navigation, though ware-houses are standing there for storing Cotton; but the last was transported from that point on wagons, and the ware-houses, no doubt, will rot down before any more Cotton is handed there for boats.”
     We propose to notice, briefly, some of the statements made above, as we think they do gross injustice to the portion of Texas, to which he alludes, and without farther ceremony shall proceed to apply the scalpel to his argument:
     1. "This portion of Texas, is a poor county generally,"

[What follows is an lengthy point-by-point argument to the contrary.]

…The steamer Jenkins a few weeks since went up this “nasty, sickly little stream” about 150 miles by water above Pine Bluff, and could have gone much farther had it been desirable.  …

[Same issue – Page: 3]

The Trinity is yet very high. We learned yesterday evening, from a gentleman who crossed the River at Porter's Bluff, a few days since, that it was on a stand at that point. It commenced falling a day or two at Parker's Bluff. The Gov. Pease reached Magnolia on Wednesday last, went up to Pine Bluff on Thursday and returning left Magnolia on Saturday morning for Galveston. The Jenkins came up as high as Hall's Bluff, and getting a load of Cotton, she left for the coast on Saturday morning last. The Grapeshot is hourly expected up. Cotton wagons still continue to pass to the River, and indeed, there is considerable Cotton yet unpicked.


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - February 10 & 17, 1858 -  Page 2

[Postal Routes]
     8630      …
         Leave Anderson Monday at 6 a.m.;
         Arrive at Fairfield Wednesday by 6 p.m.
         Leave Fairfield Thursday at 6 a.m.;
          Arrive at Anderson Saturday by 6 p.m.
Bids to run twice a week are invited.
8631      From Anderson, by Kellums Springs, Lee, Washbendce’s, Willson’s Store, and Hanson’s, to Fairfield, 100 miles and back once a week;
          Leave Anderson Monday at 4 a.m.;
          Arrive at Fairfield next day by 10 p.m.
          Leave Fairfield Wednesday at 4 a.m.;
          Arrive at Anderson next day by 10 p.m.


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) – March 24, 1858 – Page: 2

For the Advocate
Letter from Fairfield

     Messrs Editors: I left home, Mound Prairie, on a tour West on Thursday last, via West Point, but being hindered on my way I found it would be dark before I could reach the Ferry, and the bottom being almost impassable, I turned aside to Judge Gardner's, the worthy Chief Justice of our own fair county of Anderson, where I spent a most agreeable night, and obtaining an early start next morning hastened down to the Ferry through the mud, and much to my discomfiture the cable was gone, and I had to make my way as best I could down to Parker's Bluff, where I found no difficulty in crossing.
     The Trinity is in fine boating order, much to the joy of the good people, in view of the prospect of procuring provisions and groceries and shipping the remnant of cotton. After passing the bottom on this side, and farther on, some fine farms, I reached the pleasant little village of Butler, and resting an hour, I hastened on to this place. On approaching we have a beautiful view of the town, being situated just in the suburbs of the Prairie, having a very eligible site, and well constructed public and private buildings. Among these is the Court House, made of brick, and surpassed by but few in the State. Also a brick Jail, just completed, sufficient to retain its inmates, an object very desirable, for it is often the case in Texas that the guilty escape from justice for want of substantial Jails. – In the jail are two prisoners, one for murder and the other for Assault and Battery with intent to kill. Also a first class Female Institute, which will be completed in time for the Fall session, and one business house nearly finished. There are other improvements going on. The private residences are constructed upon a neat, comfortable and substantial plan, several of brick two of which are just being completed, together with all the paraphernalia of a well regulated town, all the result of the enterprise of a few short years. Yesterday (Sunday) I attended church, and truly Fairfield may boast a just share of female beauties.
     The brick Hotel, a Grocery, a family residence and two other lots, worth at a fair valuation $7000 was sold under a mortgage on the 13th at the low sum of $2940.
     The “Texas Pioneer” is published at this place, a very ably conducted periodical, Edited by the very gentlemanly and worthy J. L. Caldwell. He is quite young and will no doubt make his mark in the world. He is a young man of fine promise. I shall leave here to-morrow for Springfield, Waco, Milford and thence home via Corsicana.
                        Respectfully,
                        W. V. TUNSTALL


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - April 7, 1858 – Page: 2

Letter from Milford
Milford, Texas, March 24. 1858

     Messrs Editors: After leaving Fairfield, which I did on the evening of the 15th inst., and going due South ten miles, I put with Col. Linn, a Kentucky farmer, and ex-member of the Kentucky Legislature, a warm Democrat, and highly social old gentleman.  …
                                    W. V. TUNSTALL


[This ad has lots of little pictures that look like modern clip art]

Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - April 7, 1858 – Page: 3
[Also April 21, 1858 – Page: 3; April 24, 1858 – Page: 3]

HERE! HERE!! LOOK HERE!!!

     THE undersigned offers the most splendid, gigantic bargain in 320 acres of land that was ever offered to any child of wrath, in this evil world, since pussey was a cat. Said land lies 12 miles, west of Palestine, half a mile west of Bonner's Ferry on the Trinity, on the road leading from Palestine to Fairfield -- Good timber, and most excellent soil; 18 acres in a good state of cultivation, and 17 acres nearly ready for the... [picture of plow]
     Good dwelling houses, &c; a well of as good water as ever gushed from the bowels of the earth to satisfy the curiosities of the children of men. This water does not, like some water on the road, need any of the ardent mixed with it to make it palatable. It is deplorable to see the effects of mixing ardent with water; it over-nerves the arm, give loose volubility to the tongue, and most astonishingly fructifies the imagination. This water needs no such stimulant. The pilgrim in this low ground of sorrow, that drinks not b[e]ing more impure than this water, is wise, pure, peaceable, gentle, easy entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. This location is convenient to navigation; in a thriving neighborhood, amidst an abundance of wild game 150 yards from the house is a beautiful, clear pool of water, affording an abundance of Troat [Trout], Perch, Buffalo, Cat, and other varieties of fish -- easily caught at all seasons of the year, and last, though not least, the best situation for entertaining travelers that can be found.
     This is a desirable location for nine good reasons, -- viz: the fertility of the soil; good timber; fine water; convenience to navigation; the abundance of game and fish; the excellence of its locality or a public house; the state of society; the desticulation of the neighbors; and the circumambient, circumprotary circumstances by which it is surrounded. I will sell for money or good property. Terms made easy to any circumspect, spiniferous, responsible purchaser.
  Apply on the premises to
               J. A. CLARK
   March, 1858


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - May 19, 1858 edition - Page: 3

Our School Interests

     … Again. Let our citizens look around us and tell us what they are doing in the neighboring towns? For instance, in Fairfield they have raised by subscription, as we understand, ten thousand dollars, and will shortly have completed a magnificent temple of learning, well supplied with the necessary appurtenances, and fitted up in the best style.  …


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - May 26, 1858 edition - Page: 2

A Card. --to the Public

     In a late number of the Fairfield Pioneer, an editorial notice appeared, stating that two of my Stages had been detained at Fairfield, by the Sheriff of Freestone county, to satisfy a claim from Waco; that the mail west for one trip, was detained at that place, and the mail east, sent on horseback, &c., which I see has been copied into other papers in the State. Such as statement, uncorrected, is calculated to do me a great injury, and is, therefore, unjust.
     I will state the facts: I owed a Mr. Drury, of Waco, $4070, for the purchase of a House and Lot in that place; the title proves not good, as the property was encumbered by a debt of Drury's, (and is now levied upon to pay his debt,) in consequence of which, I did not pay the purchase money when due; but, Mr. Drury, and many others, well knew, I was at all times, ready and willing to pay it, according to my contract, whenever a good title was made to me for the property. But, not withstanding this and my residence well known to him, and my responsibility and pecuniary ability amply sufficient Mr. Drury, by some means obtained an attachment against me, under which, there is now levied and bonded $10,000 worth of my property, and a Garnishee served for $1500, to pay the $4070.
     I leave it to all high-minded honest men, to say whether I have acted wrong, or been badly and ungentlemanly treated. The laws of the county will settle the matter. I think the Editor of the Pioneer, to say the least of it was hasty in his remarks, and did me great injustice; and hope his sense of right, and justice, will prompt him to give this Card a conspicuous place in his paper.
           H. M. BLACK
   Palestine, Texas, May 18, 1858

[Same Issue; Page 4]

J. M. Perry           A. T. Rainey
     PERRY & RAINY
Attorneys and Counselors at Law,
    PALESTINE, ANDERSON CO., TEXAS

     Will practice in all the counties composing the Ninth Judicial District in Freestone, and on the Supreme and Federal Courts at Tyler.
    March 26, 1856           39:1y

------------------------------------

    WILLIAM ALEXANDER
 ATTORNEY AT LAW
          PALESTINE-TEXAS
WILL practice in the several courts of the 9th Judicial District; also, in the counties of Leon, Freestone, Limestone, and Cherokee, in the Supreme court of the State, and in the U.S. District courts - Office, North side of the Public Square, formerly occupied by Mallard & Alexander.
   July 2, 1854              25-1y


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) newspaper - June 2, 1858 - Page 3
[Also June 9, 1858 – Page: 3; June 16, 1858 – Page: 3]

GROCERIES
AT PINE BLUFF

THE undersigned has on hand, at Pine Bluff, Freestone county, a large supply of PROVISIONS AND Family Groceries, consisting, is part of
   Sugar, Coffee, Molasses, Flour, Rice, Bacon, Lard, Pork, Corn, Tobacco,
   Candles, Candies, Whiskey, Brandy, Wine, Syrup, &c &C

  All of which he offers for sale at low prices for CASH
    Persons trading from ??? of the Trinity river, are always free of ferriage.
                H. G. BRADBURY
    Pine Bluff, May 27th, 1858        43:3w

[Same Issue, Same Page]

            GROCERIES – We would call the attention of our readers to the advertisement of Groceries for Sale, at Pine Bluff, by H. G. Bradury. We understand that this is perhaps the best lot of Groceries ever on sale at that place. Those in want of anything he has will do well to give him a call. Our readers in Henderson county especially, will take notice. See advertisement.


State Gazette (of Austin, Texas) - June 5, 1858 edition - Page: 3

FREESTONE - A planter of Freestone county has rye with 8" matured heads from one grain; bearded wheat with 143 stalks from one grain.


State Gazette (of Austin, Texas) - June 26, 1858 edition - Page: 3

FREESTONE - They are building a magnificent structure at Fairfield, for a female academy. We congratulate this young county on so valuable an acquisition.


Dallas Herald (of Dallas, Texas) - July 3, 1858 edition – Page: 1

[Original is very faded.]

     The 'Pioneer' of the 22d publishes a sermon, delivered in Fairfield by the Rev. Joseph Friend, on the sinfulness of dancing. We regret that we cannot subscribe to the gentleman's doctrine, and from the moral ...
among people with the least pretensions to decency. As well conquered the use of food and dress, .... of their occasional abuses - What would our French and German friends - the nations of the dance - say to the assertion that the dancing hall inevitably conducts ...


State Gazette (of Austin, Texas) - July 3, 1858 edition - Page: 3

  Freestone, Fairfield, June 23, 1858

     "Maj. Marshall will be gratified to learn that Freestone will give her usual Democratic majority. Buckley will run with the other Democratic nominees."

--------------------------

[same issue, same page]

  FREESTONE - The Pioneer says that the cotton is young and small but looks healthy and is rapidly growing; corn looks well and rye has yielded well.

--------------------------

[same issue, same page]

  FREESTONE - The Pioneer thus speaks of Fairfield, the county seat:
     "Fairfield deserves a more extended notices for it we are to believe the report of travelers, we have one of the handsomest towns in the interior. Our Court-house of Brick is a large imposing building, costing at its erection some $10,000. Our Jail is made of brick, and for strength and durability, is perhaps unsurpassed in our State -- One huge and commodious church, erected chiefly by the Cumberland Presbyterians, is seen as you pass along main street. A famed Male Academy and large Masonic Hall, bespeak a liberality towards public edifices which are wanting in many elder towns. Three Hotels, offer to the weary traveler a comfortable place for repose and refreshment. Various Mechanic shops strike the traveler’s attention as soon as he looks at our villages: Wagon, Carriage and Blacksmith shops abound."
     There are also several villages in Freestone, Butler in the East; Troy or Pine Bluff on the Trinity; Cotton Gin in the West; and Personville situated near the Southwestern part of the county.


Houston Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - July 21, 1858 edition - Page: 2

     The Fairfield  Pioneer wishes those croaking prophets, who said the Central road would stop at Hempstead, may be proved false by the Board of Directors, just as soon as possible.


State Gazette (of Austin, Texas) - July 24, 1858 edition - Page: 3

[Politics]

  Freestone,  Fairfield, July 8, 1858

"Bell will not have a corporal's guard in this county. The slanders heaped on Buckley having enlisted the sympathy of the respectable portion of the opposition."


The Weekly Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - August 4, 1858 edition - Page: 3

Letter from Fairfield

Fairfield, July, 1858
    Time with its never failing wing has flown along and now we are in the midst of this boiling, baking, roasting summer. It seems but yesterday I was writing you of the glorious spring time. What a change! The earth is no longer covered with its new and bonnie green carpet. The carpet has grown old and brown, the powerful rays of the sun have licked up as with a tongue of fire its moist greenness, but still it is beautiful. The trees and shrubs put forth all their strength as with the generous intent of hiding the nakedness of their parent earth, the tall and martial corn droops not its had out like the hardy veteran falls at his post; the young and amorous cotton plant leaps up with joyous pleasure to meet the fierce and burning kisses of “Old Sol,” the sweet and luscious peaches are blushing in their modesty at his rude treatment and seeking, but in vain, to hide amongst the leaves; the stately sugar cane (Sorgho) which has defined rain or sun, yields up its life and blesses us with sweets, the waving, golden wheat has been cut, and is supplying us with bread the staff of life, the earth is giving forth its increase and the hearts of men are glad within them.
    I write you from the centre of this land of “black jack, hickory and sand hills,” which has latterly been continued to itself and shut out from all intercourse with the great living world beyond, in consequence of the irregularity of the stages [stage coaches]. I hear, however, of the proprietors of the different stages buying horses to put on the roads in the place of the poor worn out skeletons now crawling over them to the doleful tune of “the dead March in Saul,” played by the passengers. The people of this section will therefore, in a little time, be in regular receipt of your invaluable paper, a thing most devoutly to be wished as it has “found favor in their eyes”.
    I have spent this month in wandering over the counties of Leon, Freestone, Anderson and Limestone, the land of “black jack, hickory and sand hills,” but although the roads are sandy, the Trinity is close at hand at right useful in taking down the cotton and bringing up supplies; the land, too, though scrubby never yet failed to grow both cotton and corn if properly and frequently watered. The crops throughout these counties are looking remarkably well, yet there are some places where the rain never falls according to the owners; stopping at one of these places, I was about to put my saddle under cover as it threatened to rain, when I was told, “it never rains here”. I was right glad to see a good ground soaker before I left.
    Everywhere I go I meet with candidates for office out electioneering. There is very little conversation on the nomination and associate judgeship, Judge Buckley will of course, get nigh all the votes. The principal interest is in the race for District Attorney. Of Stewart and Reagan, innumerable and strange are the yarns circulated. Stewart will doubtless be elected, he is the good lawyer and a good Democrat.
    The people in these counties are beginning to look upon the railroad (Texas Central) with a more favorable eye, since they are building the third section of the road, and that great cry of “they’ll stop it at Hempstead, has proved wrong, they are commencing to think that the present directors have been called too hard names, and should they only succeed in building the road to Navasoto, would probably again subscribe to it, for the are all anxious to hear the shrill whistle of the locomotive reverberating amidst their hills and bringing up the comforts of civilized life at a reasonable rate.
    The other day in company with a friend I climbed one of the highest hills in Freestone county, called Pilot Knob or Waldrum’s Hill, and from its summit beheld a wide extent of timbered land, occasionally dotted with small green prairies and smiling farms than ever I gazed on in my life before, for miles it stretched out before me or rose in small hills heightened the beauty of the scene by destroying its sameness. Away in the distance on the left as you look towards Fairfield can be seen the hills on the other side of Keechi. The pretty little town of Fairfield with its light and elegant Court House can not be seen, although right before you at a distance of 8 miles, on account of a little rising ground. On your right as you turn round are the Pine Bluffs on the other side of the Trinity with a gently sloping valley, streaked with numerous creeks between you and there; and on the left a succession of little hills and valleys meets your eye till lost in distance, making altogether a scene well worthy a journey from the lover of nature. On the top of the hill is a large mound of stones place there, probably by the Indians, as a land mark as my friend informed me they were there when the county was first settled. I can recommend this spot to any young couple as a spot of exalted happiness.
    There appears to be a regular mania for erecting mills and boiling molasses. May success crow their endeavors. The sorgho is well adapted to stand the drought of this climate, the sugar and molasses made from it are very good and taste much like that old maple tree. Let me now wind up with the hope that the yellow fever may not visit you this year, and that I may find all my friends doing well on my return. More anon.
                        DICK


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - August 11, 1858 edition

     MARRIED: On the 1st inst., at the residence of the bride's father, by the Rev. V. H. Hey, Mr. William H. Green to Miss Mary M. Lane. All of Freestone county, Texas.
     We congratulate the young couple upon launching their barks on the matrimonial sea. May they float down the stream with a smooth unruffled current, ever realizing, in each other's society, all the felicity that follows a union of congenial souls. May life's choicest blessings be showered upon them.


The Weekly Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - August 11, 1858 edition - Page: 2

     The Fairfield Pioneer says that two months have passed there since a general rain.The cotton crop still looks healthy.


The Weekly Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - August 18, 1858 edition - Page: 3

     The Fairfield Pioneer says that Freestone is both well wooded and well watered. It is a very desirable county to settle in.


The Weekly Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - August 25, 1858 edition - Page: 1

Texas Items

     The Fairfield Pioneer says that there is some sickness in Freestone county but none of a malignant type.
     The Pioneer mentions the want of rain on the cotton fields.
     The Pioneer reads the road overseers a lecture on the importance of keeping their roads in better repair. People do not realize how much they are injured by bad roads. Strangers looking out for a location are immediately prejudiced against a county where the roads are in bad order, and there is no appearance of public spirit.


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) – Sept. 15, 1858 edition - Page: 2

A Trip to Fairfield

    On Sunday evening the 5th inst., we left our quiet little town on a trip to our neighboring town of Fairfield, and about sundown reached Parker's Bluff, where we received a cordial [faded left side] from several of our friends who re- [faded] place. We were agreeably entertained for the night and early in the morning [faded] journey.
    [Faded]  crossing the Trinity we the bottom [faded] ‘tricky’, and were really glad when [faded] the firm ground again. We halted [faded] in Butler, and enjoyed a con- [faded] with our young friend Joe B. At [faded] noon we reached friend Cole's [faded] took of a bountiful dinner. Three [faded] we reached Fairfield. As [faded] town we notice the frame-work [faded] seminary buildings off to the left [faded] prairie. It is intended to be a [faded] considerable size, and if the front [faded] it will make an imposing ap- [faded] the road. The people of Freestone deserve much praise for the lib- [faded] which they have subscribed to [faded] and it is be hoped that their [faded] its advantages may be realized. [faded] the most eminent success in [faded].
    [faded] with our old friend Watts [faded] Walker House, and regret to [faded] …ad disposed of this house and [faded] Fairfield. We wish him [faded] success in any enterprise which may [faded] …ntion. If his successor desires [faded] the character of the Walker [faded] have to keep wide awake and [faded] and fully alive to the wants of his [faded]. We found a large number of our [faded] acquaintances in Fairfield with [faded] exchanged friendly greetings, -- [faded] we called on friend Caldwell, of [faded] whom we found seated at his Ed- [faded] with pen in hand, holding con- [faded] readers. Success to him.
    [faded] transacted our business we left for [faded] ..day, and after about five hours [faded] of the worst road we ever [faded] the residence of John Van- [faded] where we remained all night, and [faded] very agreeably. The next [faded] drove down to the Colony and [faded] several hours. We here found that [faded] improvements had been made …


The Weekly Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - October 6, 1858 edition - Page: 2

Letter from Freestone County.

Freestone County, Sept. 22d, 1858
To The Senior-
     MY DEAR OLD BOY: Some considerable time has elapsed since I communicated with thee, but now, that the dog-days are over, and my head cooler. I feel more like writing. And, firstly, it is not my intention to commence by puffing, either the one-horse towns or three-legged taverns, as L.K.P., of the News does enough in that line. Neither do I intend puffing the people, as red-eye does enough of that. I will simply say that, as a general thing, the people have treated me as well as they were able, and charge me as much as they could afford, therefore no obligation. I last wrote thee from the frontier, where I made considerable stay. On dit there, that from the best and most reliable information that can be obtained, we are now on the eve of an Indian war, provoked by Ford's victory over the Comanches, a few months ago, and which victory was unfortunately not followed up. The settlers of the frontier counties have mostly combined and organized as Rangers and minute men, for the purpose of resistance. At the same time, they are loud and bitter in their curses on those parties, through whose representations the embodiment of Rangers was superseded. On dit that some even proposed fetching the Governor and giving him up as hostage to the red men, and placing him in the van of the attack, a pretty warm place, for his Excellency. But I merely give these sayings to show how the excitement rages. Reports of Indian outrages are floating over the country, and something will speedily have to be done, or out frontier will be partially deserted. Splendid crops have been made and saved, so that, at all events, the people are prepared for fighting if necessary. Whether any blame is to be attached to the State Government, I know not, I merely report what I do hear.
 .. 

[same issue]

  MIDDLE TEXAS

  The Fairfield Pioneer is about to put on a new dress.


Daily Columbus Enquirer (of Columbus, Georgia) - October 21, 1858 edition - Page: 2
  The Freestone, Texas, Pioneer says a large lion was killed recently on Noland's river, in Johnson county. It had killed 9 horses in that vicinity.
  They call panthers "lions" in Texas and Louisiana.


The Weekly Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - November 3, 1858 edition

Texas Items. the East

MIDDLE TEXAS

The Freestone Texas, Pioneer says not more than half a crop of cotton has been made in that county. The mast in excellent and the pork crops great.


The Sun (of Massachusetts) - November 4, 1858 edition

     …
     The Freestone (Texas) Pioneer says a large lion was killed recently on Noland's river, in Johnson county. It had killed 9 horses in that vicinity.
     They call panthers "lions" in Texas and Louisiana.


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - December 8, 1858 edition – Page: 2

MESSRS. EDS: - Owing to the inclemency of the weather, I was delayed several days. But left the scenes of my childhood, on the 16th ult. Leaving Fairfield, I passed through some low, flat post-oak country, in the direction of Corsicana, until I crossed Tiwacana creek, near which are several good bodies of land; and a number of good farms. Leaving the bottom, I struck cut into the prairie, where I exerted my organs of sight; "gaze into illimitable space and could see no beyond." Saw nothing more of note until I reached Corsicana, a beautiful little town, situated in the edge of timber, containing some six or seven hundred inhabitants. It is remarkably pretty location for a town. The buildings are mostly of wood and of rather inferior king; they do not exhibit the spirit and taste in their buildings that the location merits, and by all means should have. I noticed some signs of improvement among which is the re-building of the Court house. Here I met our friend R. Q. Mills, who, not withstanding the cares of a family, fights the battles of life cheerfully.
     Left Corsicana and traveled in the direction of Porter's Bluff - a ride of three hours brought me to Charfield's Point or Muskeet which is a growing village in the midst of a large and wealthy neighborhood. Spent...


Dallas Herald (of Dallas, Texas) - December 8, 1858 edition – Page: 2

     The merchants of Fairfield have published a written agreement in the 'Pioneer,' to close doors and suspend business on Sundays, from and after the 1st January next. We point this as a wholesome example to our merchants.

[same issue]

  The Texas 'Pioneer' has commenced publishing simultaneously at Fairfield and Springfield. Both edition are served to subscribers at the same time - A novel arrangement.


The Weekly Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - December 22, 1858 edition - Page: 2

MIDDLE TEXAS

     The Fairfield Pioneer says that Mr. Yarbro's store was robbed the other night of two bolts of cloth. The cloth was recovered but the thief is yet at large.
     The Pioneer mentions the advent of emigrants to Freestone county.


The Weekly Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - December 29, 1858 edition - Page: 3

SOUTHERN NURSERY

Washington, Miss. Dec. 3, 1858

E. H. Cushing Esq. - My dear Sir -
[discussion about tubers of Japan yams]
[discussion about improved postal system]
....
     Capt. Sterritt passed down with his new boat, the Diana, on the morning of the 24, and as she took on board for me at Natchez that morning quite a large stock of trees plants &c, I am doubly anxious to hear of her safe arrival at Houston.
     Our roads and ferries are crowded with emigrants on their way to Texas, and almost universally with good forces of negroes. But this cold wet weather must cause much suffering amongst them.
     The Messrs Bonner passed through here on the 29th ult., on their way to Freestone county, well equipped and getting along well. They took a lot of fruit trees and ornamental plants with them from me; and had strong teas and a fine flock of sheep.
   Yours truly,      Thomas Affeck

NEWS OF 1859

A Digest of the General Statute Laws of the State of Texas: to which are
  subjoined the repealed laws of the Republic and State of Texas
by George W. White, Williamson S. Oldham
Austin, Texas
  1859

[Page 146]

"...
  Art. 593 [1] The thirteenth Judicial District shall be composed of the counties of Madison, Robertson, Falls, Limestone, Hill, Navarro, Freestone, and Leon.
  Art. 594 [2] The District Court shall be held in the county of Madison on the third Monday in March and September, and may continue in session one week; in the county of Robertson on the first Monday after the third Monday and may continue in session one week; in the county.

[Page 146]

of Falls on the second Monday after the third Monday in March and September, and may continue in session one week; in the county of Limestone on the third Monday after the forth Monday in March and September, and may continue in session one week; in the county of Navarro on the fifth Monday after the third Monday in March and September, and may continue in session two weeks; in the county of Freestone on the seventh Monday after the third Monday in March and September, and may continue in session one week; in the county of Leon on the eighth Monday after the third Monday in March and September, and may continue in session two weeks.
..."


Southern Intelligencer (of Austin, Texas)
January 12, 1859 (Vol. 3, No. 21) - Front page

Freestone - The Pioneer says that the "Thespian corpse" of Fairfield, will give an entertainment on the 28th inst. We suppose that the overture will be the "Dead March" or the "Other Side of Jordan", and that a galvanic battery will be he principal performer on the occasion. The whole affair will doubtless be very jolly. - Galveston News


The Weekly Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - January 26, 1859 - Page: 1

Texas Items

  The Herald has the name of Hon. John Gregg, of Freestone county, at its mast-head for Governor.

-----------------------------

[Same issue, page 2]

Texas Items.
Central Texas

 The Fairfield Pioneer acknowledges the receipt of a bottle of Mustang wine, which however it acknowledges it is no judge of but likes notwithstanding.
 The Pioneer learns that a good deal of cotton is accumulating in the warehouses on the Trinity.
 The Pioneer says that a stranger calling himself Levi Payne, about 40 years of age, of medium height and having a gray beard, stayed all night at Mr. S. B. Phariss, 16 miles below Fairfield. During the night his horse got away, and in the morning he started in pursuit. Sometime after he was found dead about a mile from Phariss' house. He had represented that he had a drove of horses on the San Jacinto 30 miles from Houston and 20 from Lynchburg, and had said he was going to Navarro county where he had a son going to school. Any information desired by his friends will be ???ished by the chief justice of Freestone county.


Dallas Weekly Herald (of Dallas, Texas) - March 2, 1859

W. R. DeArmond, Fairfield "" 21  "


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - March 9, 1859 edition - Page: 3

  No. 877

THE STATE OF TEXAS       { District court
  County of Anderson,             { Spring Term
John G. Caldwell, Plaintiff,      {   1859
   vs.
Josephine P. Caldwell, Df't

     The plaintiff in the above entitled cause has this day filed in my office, certain interrogatories to be propounded to W. C. Wilson who resides at Fairfield, in the county of Freestone, State of Texas.
     Notice is hereby given that on or after the thirtieth day after the publication of this notice, a commission will issue a prescribed by law, to take the deposition of said witness. Teste A. E. McClure, Clerk of the District Court of Anderson County.
   Given under my hand and seal of office at Palestine, this 4th day of March A.D. 1859.
    A. E. McClure,
    Clk. D. Ct. A. Co.

    Issued March 4th  A.D. 1859

  A. E. McClure, Clk. D.C.A.C.
  March 4, 1859   n30 (30 days) prs fee, $750


Texas State Gazette (of Austin, Texas) - April 23, 1859

  The proceedings of the Democracy of Freestone have not come to hand yet.


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - June 15, 1859

  G. W. Strother  Z. P. Clough  J. M. Shepherd
   Galveston        Fairfield      Lexington, Tenn.
  ...........      ...........     ...........

   Strother & Clough & Shepherd

   Cotton Factors and ...


Southern Beacon (of Henderson, Texas) - June 18, 1859

Texas Items

     The Fairfield Pioneer says the effect of the late killing frost on the 22nd ult., have almost disappeared under the influence of warm weather and genial showers. Corn is low and later than usual but has a fine appearance and is growing fast and our oldest farmers say it will yield well. Cotton, though troubled some with the insects, is now growing and looks as if it was doing well. The gardens generally are flourishing. The wheat crop is being harvested. From present indication, there will be a plenty made in our county this season to supply the large immigration expected to our counties the coming fall.


State Gazette (of Austin, Texas) - July 2, 1859 - Page: 3

Congressional Canvas for 1859

...At Fairfield, Freestone County,  Friday July 8th ...


State Gazette (of Austin, Texas) - July 30, 1859

     J.C.C. Brelett, Esq. of Owensville, is now addressing the people of Falls, Limestone and Freestone. He is said to be an eloquent and effective speaker.


Southern Intelligencer (of Austin, Texas) – Wednesday, August 31, 1859 - Page: 1
Vol. 4.    No. 2.

Remedy for Weevil - a Letter from Flowerdale Says:
    Before the grain is cribbed, the floor of the barn or crib should be covered over with green leaves and stems of the China tree, and then as the grain is put in the crib to the depth of a foot, there should be another thin layer of leaves and stems, and at the depth of another foot another layer of leaves and stems, and so on, until the grain is all cribbed.
    I am sure this is a remedy which requires no labor in comparison to its value; and the China tree is a growth to be found in almost any Southern State. I have tried this remedy for a number of years, and never without success. It matters not if the weevil gets in the grain before it is cribbed, as this mode of cribbing will drive them out. The weevils get in most of the Texas corn before it is gathered.
    I will give you another instance of the value of the China tree. Bacon, while curing, smoked with the dry leaves, stems and berries, of this valuable tree, will prevent skippers. This looks almost absurd as well as incredible, but, nevertheless, it is a matter of fact, authenticated by personal experience, and not mere rumor.
    All that is necessary is, while smoking your meat after it is hung up, occasionally throw on the fire a handful of either the leaves, stems or berries, or a few of each, and keep this up for the ordinary length of time of smoking meat.


State Gazette (of Austin, Texas) - September 10, 1859 - Page: 2

Freestone - A correspondent gives us the official returns - Houston 295; Runnels 277; Lubbock 308; Clark 258; Waul 305; Hamilton 250; -- 597 whole vote cast.
     Freestone has been suffering for rain, but the recent heavy rains here have doubtless also come to the relief of our Freestone planters and stock-raisers.


Daily Confederation (of Montgomery, Alabama) - September 17, 1859 - Page: 3

  Texas Cotton Crop -
      ...The Galveston News, of the 8th, learns that the crop in the wealthy counties
of Limestone, Freestone and others, has been cut off by one-half by the drought.  ...


State Gazette (of Austin, Texas) - September 24, 1859

     "The Texas Farmer and Stock Journal," is the name of a periodical that being started at Fairfield, by the publishers of the Pioneer. Mr. W. B. Moores is to be the editor. We shall be glad to see the undertaking successful.


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - September 28, 1859

     Last week we visited our neighboring towns of Fairfield and Springfield. We noticed that the Cotton crops in the two counties of Freestone and Limestone, were fully as short as our own, say about a half crop. An abundance of Corn, however, had been raised, and they have the consolation of at least having plenty of the staff of life. There was one thing we found to exist in a greater degree than we had imagined, that the people of those counties are of a more pastoral character than we were aware. Large flocks of sheep and herds of cattle were almost continually in sight, after we reached the prairies. We understood that the raising of sheep is rapidly increasing; and were informed that the profit of this branch of business was indeed astonishing. Some place the figures as high as 75 per cent., while no one seemed to think it was less than 50 per cent. We met with a number of our friends and passed a few pleasant hours in their society. The health was represented to be very good indeed, much better than usual. The town of Springfield is rapidly filing up with a civil and industrious population. They have a handsome Court House, and a level Square. If their Court yard was enclosed, it would add much to the appearance of the place. But there must be time allowed them, and from the general character of the people, we think they will see the propriety in adopting this suggestion. The "Henry" House" is a well kept Hotel, indeed we risk nothing in saying that it stands in the front rank of Hotels. ...

[also same issue]

REFERENCES:

...
W. L. Moody & Brother, Fairfield, Texas
Yarbo, Gorden & Co,      "         "
Peck & Boyd,             "         "
...


The Weekly Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - September 28, 1859 - Page: 3

[Original has faded lettering making it hard to read.]

   Fairfield, Sept. 18th, 1859

     E. H. Cushing[?], Esq. -- Dear Sir -- A fine rain is now falling here, and not one moment too soon, for the streams hereabouts are all dried up. The grass has the appearance of fire having passed over it over it [why repeat?], the cattle had all gone off in the large streams some distance off, and, in general everything in nature began to weary a most woeful appearance, but the long dry spell at last broken, and nature is bestowing her favors with a copious hand. For several days past it has been raining North of this, enough even to set the creeks to running. It has been the driest summer ever known, and as an instance of it, I would mention that a creek near Weatherford, Parker county, never known to go dry before, has this year ceased running for more than a month. No rains for four months. However, it is a long land which has no turn.
     The farmers in Navarro and North of that where it has rained, have all, been busy breaking up their lands for their wheat crops, and some are ready to sow. May they live to reap an abundant harvest, even more abundant than the present year. Team after team is passing by, some with cotton others with flour, all for Houston. Although the cotton crop has been measurably cut off, there is still more than a half crop made here. Wherever I have been I have seen the farmers making molasses from the Chinese sugar cane, it has become one of the staple products of Northern Texas, the molasses sells readily at 75 cents per gallon. It is remunerative, a gentleman near Corsicana informed me he made a barrel per day with five hands and two mules. Every farmer has his cane mill, and some few have been trying to experiment of making sugar, if any person could give a receipt for that purpose it would be very thankfully received by them, besides, that he would be conferring a public good.
     This place, Fairfield, is beautifully situated in a small sandy prairie, some ten or fifteen miles South of the prairie country. Its buildings are among the neatest I have seen, mostly two stories, there are two hotels, both well kept, and the Planters Hotel is one I take pleasure in recommending to the traveler, who wishes his horse well cared for and attended to. It has a home appearance, and air of comfort about it, and has beside a good ostler, good and clean beds, and is kept by the widow.
     From appearances there is not as much business done here as formerly, there being four empty business houses and a vacant Hotel. It is a pity the last should be so, as it is a good substantial brick house, convenient and roomy. The health generally appears to be good. The Court House is a brick structure, large and commodious, the court room is in the second story and is very well finished; altogether the county seat bespeaks a thrifty and enterprising people. There is a subscription on foot to sink an artesian well, and about seventeen hundred dollars are already subscribed to it. An effort was made about five years since, but the lack of funds in the then sparsely settled county caused it to be abandoned after reaching a distance of near four hundred feet. There is also another evidence of the energy of the citizens of this county, they have erected a splendid building, about three quarters of a mile East of town, for an Academy, which is in full and successful operation, under the supervision of Professor Graves, the school numbers some sixty young ladies, and forty-three boys, all residents of this county, save one.
     Two lines of stages pass through this place, three times weekly, crossing North and South, East and West, giving mail facilities equal to any in the State.
     The soil, so far as I have seen of it, is of a sandy matter, but I do not speak for the county in general, as I have seen but little of it as yet, some other time I may give you a fuller account.          C. F. H.


State Gazette (of Austin, Texas) - October 15, 1859 - Page: 2

     FAIRS - An Agricultural and Mechanical Fair is to be held at Dallas on the 26th, 27th, and 28th of this month, and at Sherman on the 18th; and at Victoria on the first Wednesday of November. There will also be a Fair at Cotton Gin, Freestone county, on the first of Nov. The inauguration of Agricultural and Mechanical Fairs is a new era in the history of Texas, and we hope to chronicle an increase in the production of our prosperous State.

[same issue]

     A Theatrical corps formed from the young men of the place, is playing in Fairfield.


Dallas Herald (of Dallas, Texas) - October 19, 1859 – Page: 2

The Fair at Waxahachie

...and a general feeling of enthusiasm seemed to burst from the assembled crowd.
On this day, the annual address was delivered by Dr. Wm. B. Moores, of Fairfield, editor of the Pioneer at that place. The address of Dr. Moores was replete with interest, appropriateness and facts which every farmer and stock raiser would do well to study. He was attentively listened to, by the assemblage, and it is hoped that all who heard will profit by his words - The society design soliciting a copy for publication, and the public will thereby be enabled to enjoy the rich treat that we listened to. The pride of this day was an impromptu trial of skill as equestriennes, ...


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - October 19, 1859 - Page: 2

THE NEXT LEGISLATURE

  Below we give the names of those elected to the legislature, as far as we have been able to learn:

    SENATORS

    Freestone, Limestone &c.  Marion Martin


Trinity Advocate (of Palestine, Texas) - November 16, 1859 edition

        ATHENS, TEXAS.
Dr. P. S. Bethell,   Col. R. F. Burnes
Dr. Kerr,   Col. A. B. Norton
    Dr. D. M. Marby,
Rev. Robt. Hodge  Science Hill
Col. Ben. Bussey,   Mound Prairie
Messrs. Cravens & Gooch,   Palestine
Judge Harrison, Van Zant Co.,
Dr. S. G. Parsons, Kaufman
Col R. Q. Mills, Corsicana
Rev. G. W. Murray, Fairfield

  Athens, Aug. 1859


The Weekly Telegraph (of Houston, Texas) - November 23, 1859 edition

Texas Items. the East
MIDDLE TEXAS

The Fairfield and Springfield Pioneer comes to us in a new and handsome dress, and looking as nice as a new pin.Glad to see it so prosperous. It is an excellent paper.


Weekly Ledger and Texan - December 31, 1859

  SUICIDE - We learn from the Texas Pioneer that a Mr. John D. Sims committed suicide, in the town of Fairfield, on the 25th ult., by taking landmum?. His age was 23 or 24years - he was a native of Georgia, where his father now lives, near Columbus.