Notes
Note N1618
Index
The full text of this document is as follows:
PROOF REQUIRED UNDER HOMESTEAD ACTS MAY 20, 1862, AND JUNE 21, 1866.
The State of Kansas, Osborne County--
We, Chas . W. Crampton, and A.W. Fritchey, each for himself, do solemnly swear that we have known Frank E. Leebrick for Five (5) years last past; that he is a married man and has a family consisting of himself, wife and one child, and that he is a citizen of the United States; that he is an inhabitant of the N 1/2 of North West 1/4 and N 1/2 of North East 1/4 of Section No. 25 in Township No Seven (7) S. of range No 13 West and that no other person resided upon the said land entitled to the right of Homestead or pre-emption.
That the said Frank E. Leebrick entered upon and made settlement on said land about the twentieth day of December 1871, and has built a house thereon of logs and boards, one story high, has a door, window, board floor and lumber and sod roof. Dimensions 14 by 18 feet, and comfortable to live in and has lived in the said house and made it his regular home from the 20th day of December 1871 to the present time and that he has, since said settlement plowed and cultivated about 18 acres of said land, and has made the following improvements thereon, to-wit: Dug and partially walled a well 19 feet deep affording water, and that by reason of distance we are each prevented from making this affidavit at the Land Office at Kirwin Kansas. Signed Chas W. Crampton and A. N. Fritchey. The undersigned notary public in and for the afore said county and state, do hereby certify that the above affidavit was taken and subscribed before me this 29th day of March 1877. B.K. Walrond, Notary Public. And I further certify that Chas. W. Crampton and A. N.Fritchey whose names are subscribed to the foregoing affidavit, are persons of respectability. B. K Walrond, Notary Public.
Frank's name appears in the following Osborne county tax rolls: 1873 and 1874 Penn township tax roll, 1875, 1876, 1877, 1878 Penn township personal property, 1879 Penn township Real Estate.
Notes
Note N1619
Index
Death Certificate indicates cause of death as "Old Age and Arterioschlerosis". Gives address as 77 B Street, McDonald, Kansas. Length of residence where death occurred is given as 40 years.
Notes
Note N1620
Index
Dealer in Groceries and Provisions.
Notes
Note N1621
Index
Occupation given as hotel keeper.
Notes
Note N1622
Index
Ex. Hotel Keeper.
Notes
Note N1623
Index
Letter appearing in the January 30, 1941 Osborne County Farmer. Alamitos Bay District Long Beach, California January 11, 1941
Dear Mr. Walker:
Your column in the Osborne County Farmer is the first part of the paper I look at every Monday. Somewhat over two weeks ago, I saw the death notice of Frank M. Leebrick, an Osborne county pioneer, who married my mother's sister, Elizabeth McCallister. Although only an uncle-in-law, he was an uncle-in-fact as well. Many of my most precious memories center in their home, and around their family life. As soon as I learned of his death, I wrote to his sons for details, but they could tell me little more than I remember of him. On September 27th he was ninety-two years of age, and passed away in his sleep on December 14th. There was no illness, just the bodily feebleness of old age. His mind, however, was clear and bright, and his memory exceptionally keen. Particularly could he recall the tragedies and joys of pioneer days, and delighted to talk of his early-day experiences. Just a short time before his death, he laughingly told his son of singing in a church choir when he was young, and mentioned the year without hesitation. Indeed, he could date any event of his life, and many public happenings, always with entire correctness. His coming to Kansas was in 1871, as secretary of the Pennsylvania Dutch colony which settled in Osborne county and founded the town of the same name. It was a pleasure to him to tell of being on the committee to name the streets. In addition to this and other public services, he homesteaded a claim south and a little west of the city proper, somewhere near the river I think it was. My aunt "Lizzie" came to the new settlement a year later, and they were married about 1874. For the first two years, they lived on their claim, in a dugout, and their first child was born there. After that, they sold the place and moved back to town. The general opinion of their friends was that "Lizzie and Frank were not born for the country". Anyway, he opened a grocery store in Osborne, across the street from Chan Baldwin's drug store. The property next door to the grocery being vacant, Uncle Frank rented that also. By putting up partitions, he made living quarters in the back, and Aunt Lizzie conducted a millinery store in the front, with what I used to consider "very splendid" show windows on the street. Here they lived for several years, but with increasing prosperity, they closed out the millinery store, and built a comfortable dwelling on another street. This was not enjoyed very long, being destroyed by fire. After this disappointment, Uncle Frank decided to open a general store in what is now Alton (then Bull City), but for some reason, this venture was none too successful. His enthusiasm turned once again to land. In western Kansas he acquired several hundred acres for a stock farm, raising Hereford cattle both for beef and breeding. It was on this place that he spent his declining years. Aunt Lizzie preceded Uncle Frank in death by about fourteen years. Their youngest son, Roy, died in an accident two years later. Broken in health and spirit by these two blows, Uncle Frank retired from active duties, his oldest son Charles carrying on the stock farm. The second son, Max, is a druggist located in Oklahoma. The only daughter, Alice (or "Ally" as she was called) also survives her father. Besides these three, there are five grandchildren and one great grandchild. Frank M. Leebrick, as all who knew him will agree, deserves a finer obituary than I am able to write. The qualities of heart and mind which he displayed have made life easier (almost too easy) for a generation that must bring to its problems the same wisdom which his required. It is such as he who reflect credit on the pioneer period of our state and national history. Thank you for giving space to those who lived in an era so important to our development, yet so unknown to those who must carry forward our destiny.
Very sincerely Nettie Korb Bryon (author of "Prairie Days")
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Nov 21, 1940 Citizen-Patriot Newspaper, Atwood, Ks. obituary : "Frank Edwin Leebrick was born in Dublin, Indiana on September 27, 1848 and departed this life on November 8, 1940, at the age of 92 years, 1 month and 11 days. He spent a few years of his early life working in Cincinnati, Ohio, 75 miles from the place of his birth. In 1870 with an ox train, he crossed the Missouri river driving a six ox team. Later he homesteaded in Osborne County, Kansas and there in 1872 was married to Miss Lizzie McClester. He then sold his farm, moved into Osborne, where he and his wife were jointly in the grocery and dry goods business for twenty-five years. There were five children Allie, Charlie, Max, Roy and Willie. Roy, Willie and their mother preceded him in death. After the children had grown and finished school, the family came to a farm 20 miles above Atwood, on the South Beaver (creek), where Mr. Leebrick resided until the passing of his second wife, Mrs. Vannie Toland, whom he married in Chicago. They enjoyed life together for three years. Then he made his home with his son Charley and family until his death.
He was a firm believer in God's power to save and help keep those who love Him. His testimony was "I love my Jesus."
The only member of his immediate family is his brother, C. W. Leebrick of Long Beach, California.
He leaves to mourn his passing his three children, five grand children and two great grand children.
Funeral services were held at the home Sunday and the body laid to rest in the McDonald Cemetery. Rev. Dahlgren, who had visited and prayed with grandpa many times during the last several years conducted the services.
Not a tie is broken, not a hope laid low, Not a farewell spoken but our God doth know, Every hair is numbered, every tear is weighed in the changeless balance wisest love has made. Power eternal resteth in His changeless hand; Love immortal hasteth, swift, at His command, Faith can firmly trust Him in the darkest hour For the key she holdeth to His love and power."
---Provided with help of Delores Luedke and Walt Guth, Atwood.
4 Feb 1926 Kansas City Star Headline: SEEK A "LOST HONEYMOON" Subcaption: Parental Objections No Longer a Factor in Romance of Frank T Leebrick, Northwest Kansas Ranch man and His Bride
Chicago, January 28. More than a half century ago Frank T. Leebrick and Fannie Rodenburg were sweethearts in Richmond, Indiana. They planned to be married but Fannie's parents objected when Frank decided to strike out for himself and take land in Kansas. So they separated and he took the land, one thousand acres near McDonald. In 1870 he heard she had married. Two years later he was wed. Their mates died, hers in 1918 and his in 1923. A few months ago the girl, then Mrs. Toland, 73 years old, wrote to Mr. Leebrick's sister in Santa Barbara, California not knowing she had died. The letter was forwarded to Leebrick through devious channels in Kansas. He took the first train to Chicago. Since the two had parted in Richmond, they had not seen each other until last Sunday. But Leebrick lost no time in renewing his suit and they were married yesterday. He is 77 years old. Today they were going back to Kansas, in search, as the aged bridegroom phrased it, of "a lost honeymoon." --K. C. Star
"Wayne County Gazetteer", page 52 in section titled "Richmond City Directory", courtesy of Barney Thompson, Indiana State Library, 140 N Senate Avenue, Indianapolis, In. 46204 includes the following listing.
Lebrick, Frank, Blacksmith J. S. Hunt bds same
"Original Land Owners of Osborne County, Kansas" by Mildred Minear shows Frank E. Leebrick's homestead property as being in Penn township, Range 13, the North half of the north half of section 25. According to a topographic map on the first page of that publication, his property would have been bordered on the south by Covert Creek and the next section to the north was crossed by the south fork of the Solomon River. The section "kitty cornered" to the northeast of his section included Osborne City. The book "Sod and Stubble" by John Ise describes the homestead experiences of Henry and Rosie Ise of Osborne county. Their homestead is given as the northeast quarter of section 19, range 11 of Ross township. This property was in the township "kitty cornered" to the northeast of Penn township and in about the same location in the township as Frank's property. Therefore, it is quite likely that the Ise family was one of those which shopped at Frank and Elizabeth's store in Osborne.
Thursday Nov 7 1940 "Citizen-Patriot" has a 1" ad entitled "Rawlins County Farms For Sale" The Rawlins County National Farm Loan Association has accumulated approximately 25 farms which they are anxious to place into the hands of deserving farmers. The prices are at rock bottom and the terms may be made to fit the case. You cannot afford to rent when you can buy a farm on rental terms. See E.C. Mellick, Secy-Treas.' Therefore it seems Charles Leebrick must not have been the only farmer to lose his farm in those days.
Nov 17, 1940 "Citizen-Patriot" (Atwood, Kansas) front page carried the following note, next to the report of election returns. 'DEATH OF FRANK LEEBRICK The many friends of the Leebrick family will be saddened to learn of the death of Frank Leebrick which occurred at 10 pm Friday. Funeral services were held Sunday at the home of his son, Charles Leebrick. Interment was made in the McDonald cemetery. Mr. Leebrick lived for many years at his home some 22 miles southwest of Atwood on the South Beaver, his family being well known and highly respected in the county. Mr. Leebrick and his first wife were old time friends of Miss Jessie Hale and Mrs. W. C. Littell while both the Leebricks, Miss Hale and Mrs. Littel lived in Osborne county.'
The Nov 21, 1940 "Osborne County Farmer" reprinted the Citizen-Patriot's front page story.
Dec 12, 1940 "Osborne County Farmer, in a regular column by B. P. Walker entitled "Deacon-Layman Notes" the following remarks were found. 'Saw recently in country correspondence in the Farmer a note on the death of Frank M. Leebrick in western Kansas. Frank Leebrick was the first city clerk of Osborne and a moving spirit in the doings of the town in its first and primitive days. Mrs. Leebrick was a sister of Mrs. Nettie Korb-Bryson, author of "Prairie Days", most of the scenes of which are laid in Osborne county. I laid this paper aside to write more about this early day pioneer and, of course, I can't find it now. Mr. Leebrick left Osborne some forty years ago and lived first at Hoxie.'
The December 15, 1876 issue of "Osborne County Farmer" has a business card on the front page which reads: "A NEW BUTCHER Having bought the meat shop from Mr. Chas. Dimick, I am prepared to furnish Fresh Meat Every Day, at Mr. Ed. Garrigues' Ice House, where meat can be had at all hours. Prices low. Give me a call. FRANK LEEBRICK." This issue also carries an advertisement for Lizzie's millinery store, which had the following text: "NEW MILLENRY STORE MRS. FRANK LEEBRICK Keeps a fine assortment of Millinery and Ladies Fancy Goods. The ladies of Osborne city and vicinity are invited to call and see for themselves, and please examine my fall and winter stock, which will be sold at the most reasonable prices."
Feb 9, 1877 "Osborne County Farmer" reports "Mrs. Frank Leebrick keeps a very fine stock of goods in this (millinery) line, and is prepared at all times to fit her lady customers out with the latest fashions in head-gear. She has just had completed a neat building in the main part of town, which she expects to occupy in a short time, and doubtless will be second to none in a the great northwest doing business in that line."
Aug 3, 1877 "Osborne County Farmer" advertisement has this text: "A NEW BUTCHER. Having bought the meat shop from Mr. Chas. Dimick, I am prepared to furnish Fresh Meat Every Day, at Mr. Ed. Garrigues' ice House,where meat can be had at all hours. Prices low. Give me a call. "
November 30, 1877 issue of "Osborne County Farmer" lists the current Township Officers. For Penn township, the officers were Trustee, W. N. Breidenstien; treasurer, J. J. Hays; clerk, F. S.(?) Leebrick; justices, J. J. Proctor, F.R. Grugar; constables, A. Anderson, Floyd Field. This may be the basis of saying that Frank Leebrick was the first clerk of Osborne City, since Osborne was contained in Penn township. I have not found any record of election of Osborne city officials in the 1876-1880 issues of "Osborne County Farmer".
In the same issue as above, is found the comment "From one hundred to one hundred and fifty wagon loads of emigrants for Kansas have been crossing the Missouri river at St. Joseph daily for a month past". Perhaps this is the crossing point that Frank used as he moved from Indiana to Kansas.
March 8, 1878 issue of the "Osborne County Farmer" appears this information which suggests Frank had some public graces. "The dramatic society have decided to present their first play, 'Ten Nights in a Barroom', the sterling temperance drama from T. S. Arthur, on Wednesday evening, the 20th instant. The society are devoting their best efforts to preparation in order to make a success and gain a reputation for the future, devoting about every other night to rehearsal. The personnel of the play will be as follows: Sample Swichell-Mr. F. Barnes; Simon Slade-Mr. F. Leebrick; Joe Morgan-Mr. A. Saxey; Frank Slade-Mr. Geo. Ross; Harvey Green-Mr. J.A. Wilson; Mr. Romain-Mr. R.R. Hays; Willie Hammone-Mr. C.W. Baldwin; Mrs. Slade-Miss Crampton; Mrs. Morgan-Mrs. Saxey; Miss Hammond-Miss Mollie Reasoner; Mary Morgan-Floy Reasoner; Mehitable Cartright-Mrs. Yoxall. Beside the leading play there is to be a short one entitled "Saracea Brothers," in the form of a dialog, and the entertainment will close with a comical farce entitled 'Dandelion's Dodges'. We think it is safe to promise the public an excellent entertainment, and we hope the efforts of the society to contribute a source of public amusement will be encouraged by a good audience".
March 29, 1878 issue of "Osborne County Farmer" a very positive review of the play's production was given saying that "our folks 'did it up' in a manner" that had never been seen locally. Opinion was expressed that an encore performance should be given. Apparently, that request was granted, since in the April 12, 1878 issue of the newspaper, an even more gushing review was given to the second performance. The next year, the drama society presented "Uncle Tom's Cabin", but Frank Leebrick apparently did not participate in that performance.
"NOTICE. -- Sealed proposals for the building of a bridge across the South Fork of the Solomon River at the crossing of section line running between sections No. 19 and 20, in township No. 7 south, of range No. 12 west, will be received at the office (store) of Frank E. Leebrick, clerk of Penn township, Osborne county, state of Kansas, on the town site of Osborne City in said township, until the ninth day of September A.D. 1878, at 9 o'clock a.m. Said proposals must be accompanied with complete plans and specification of the same, the price to be charged therefore, in the bonds of said township at par value, or the price to be charged therefore in cash, together with a bond or undertaking, with good and sufficient security in double the amount of the proposed cost thereof, conditioned for the faithful execution of the work proposed and the carrying into effect of any contract made in reference thereto. The right is reserved to reject any or all bids. Wm. N. Breidenstein, Township Trustee. J.J. Hays, Township Treasurer. F.E. Leebrick, Township Clerk."--30 Aug 1878, Osborne County (KS) Farmer.
April 10, 1879 "Osborne County Farmer" remarks that "Messrs. Hatch, Nouamaker, Leebrick, C. Reasoner, Watrson^Gillette, Walker&Son, Fritchey and Keever, are the most recent who have complied with the law in regard to sidewalks, and others are about to do so".
January 1, 1880 "Osborne County Farmer" printed something like a city directory, with a city map and description of various businesses. Of Frank Leebrick's grocery store, the following is said "F. E. Leebrick owns reliable property on the north side of Penn street, where he conducts a grocery establishment, the goods of which have been recently purchased and are consequently good and fresh".
February 19, 1880 "Osborne County Farmer" carried the following report: "Considerable excitement was created on Penn street, Sunday afternoon, with the fast mare belonging to Mr. Peter young getting beyond that gentleman's control and running away. Mr. Young and a companion were driving west on Penn street, when the mare suddenly darted forward on a gallop. In front of the City Hotel the left rein gave way, the frightened animal turned on to the sidewalk at Mr. Frank E. Leebrick's, ran against that gentleman's door, broke on of the panels, and finally threw herself upon the boardwalk. Mr. Young's companion leaped from the buggy, but the driver retained his seat. No serious damage was done."
May 20, 1880 "Osborne County Farmer". It's not clear whether Frank maintained ownership of the original land while he and Lizzie moved to town or not, but the following story suggests that he still owned the farm land. In that issue we read "Since our last issue there has been a decided improvement in the birth boom. The good wife of Mr. William Bradley, residing on Covert Creek, last Thursday presented her husband with a bouncing 13# boy, she being in her 48th year and this her twelfth child.... On Sunday, the home of Mr. E. H. Foster, on Mr. Frank Leebrick's place, was gladdened by the arrival of a cherub of the feminine gender-of average weight-the genial and highly successful Dr. Gibboney officiating. Verily,it's Kansas against the world for babies "
Nov 25, 1880 "Osborne County Farmer" paid advertisement with the text "Having decided to close out my entire stock of groceries, I will during the next sixty days offer unparalleled bargains for cash. All goods marked down to cost. There is no humbug about this. F. E. Leebrick." This ad ran for four consecutive weeks beginning Nov 25.
Mar 1, 1881 "Osborne County Farmer" local news section reported "Dave Tindal, Charley Gillette, W. S. Neff and Dudley Johnson pulled out in good style for Colorado last Monday. At the same time, L. M. Clark, Henry Drake, George Taylor and F. Leebrick made a good start for New Mexico. We hope the boys will return smeared all over with gold-dust and their wagons loaded down with bullion."
June 9, 1881 "Osborne County Farmer" local news section reported Frank's homecoming: "Frank Leebrick returned from Southern Colorado Saturday evening. He reports times distressingly dull in that heritage, and found it extremely difficult to turn up an honest penny."
Oct 6, 1881 "Osborne County Farmer" local news reported that F. Leebrick was among a group of men who "attended the Atchison fair last week, being supplied with free transportation by the Missouri Pacific railway company, through Mayor Reasoner. We understand they had a grand time, and were returned home Sunday by a special train placed at their disposal from Downs."
Jan 5, 1882 "Osborne County Farmer" in a description of businesses operating in the city, listed Frank Leebrick in the Grocery listing. He must not have stayed "sold out" for very long. His wife appears in the Millinery listing.
From an unknown issue of the "Osborne County Farmer" we find the following: "The object of this sketch is to give, as near as may be, a history of this county from the commencement of its settlement to the present time, giving the history of its organization, the officers elected, its population, wealth, receipts and disbursements,debt and all other matters that may be gathered from the records wherever these facts are preserved.
There are several reasons for publishing these matters. One of the main reasons is that a great many of the "new comers" have requested something of this kind published. A majority of the people of this county at the present time may very properly be called new comers, who have no knowledge of the early settlement, organization and progress of the affairs of the county in which they are now building up homes, matters too, in which they all to a greater or less degree are interested.
The first settlement of the county began in 1870. We find that the US census of 1870 puts the population at 33, 12 of whom are located in township 6, range 11; and 21 in township 7 range 13. None of the counties adjoining are credited with any population except Mitchell and Russell; the former having 485 and the latter 156. During the next year quite an immigration poured into the county, and the question of organizing began to be agitated; towns began to compete for the county seat, and men to aspire to the official positions to be filled in the new organization.
These considerations may have had a great deal to do in bringing up the matter of organizing at a day so early, with but few people, less wealth and nothing with which to defray the necessary expenses of the county. It seems that the best policy would have been to defer the organization to a later day. Experience at least has taught us that the debt contracted in 1872-3 would have been avoided. Perhaps it is easier to see these things now, that it would to have foreseen them at that time.
In the May 19, 1876 and June 9, 1876 issues of the "Osborne County Farmer" a lengthy history of the founding of the City by the Pennsylvania Dutch colony is given. However, there is no reference to Frank Leebrick's role in the colony. The history given there indicates that the colony was from Berks and Lancaster county. If that is true, then Frank may have been an "also ran" within the colony.
From the Osborne County Register of Deeds, I obtained a copy of the satisfaction of Frank's Homestead Claim. It was signed in Washington on March 1, 1879 and was recorded in Osborne County on 22 Dec 1880. Because of the five-year time requirement to establish a homestead, that would mean he claimed the exemption not later than 1 Mar 1874. Due to bureaucratic delays, it could have been several years earlier. That document gives a Homestead Certificate number of 794 and an application number of 3993.
There is also a record of indenture, dated 25 October 1884, recording the sale of the homesteaded property to a Mr. Samuel Safferty of Warren county, Illinois for the sum of $1615. The sale was subject to the Leebricks clearing a $500 mortgage on the land.
From Ann Watkins at vcmth02u@dewey.csun.edu comes the information that the booklet "History of Bull City, 1870-1970, published by the Osborne County Farmer, contains on page 28, a listing of owners of various kinds of businesses in 1886 "Groceries and General: Beal and Taylor; Thurston; Fitzsimmons & Son; A. J. Runyan; Morgan Grant; T. M. Walker (wholesale); F. E. Leebrick." On page 67 of the same is a list of results of the city elections which were held annually :Election held April 1888, "Mayor, E. Grover; Police Judge, C. Marshall; Councilmen: L.G. Rhodes, Wm. Williams. F. E. Leabrick (sic), J. R. Loomis and H. D. Austin; Marshall, F. M. Nelson; Treasurer, N. Hill".
Feb 14, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" reports in the local news section: "Married, at the residence of F. E. Leebrick, Osborne,on Monday evening Feb 11th, by Rev. H. V. Rominger, Mr. Wm. H. Smith to Miss Carrie McCallister, all of Osborne county". Rev. Rominger was pastor of the Moravian church in Osborne. He returned to Pennsylvania a few months after this marriage.
Feb 28, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" reports in a listing of millinery businesses: "Mrs. F. E. Leebrick presents her share of attractions in the millinery line, having a neatly arranged store, well stocked with a choice assortment of goods".
Mar 6, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" in a listing of marriage licenses issued by Probate Judge O. F. Smith during the month of February is found "Frank A. McCallister and Eva Hutchinson, Wm. H. Smith and Carrie McCallister" among others.
Mar 13, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" in a report itemizing the expenses incurred by the county poor farm in the 2nd quarter of 1882 is the entry "F. E. Leebrick, provisions....$2.95".
May 1, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" reports in the local news section: "Frank Leebrick has a new peanut roaster."
May 15, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" again in the local news section: "Frank Leebrick has erected an awning in front of his grocery."
May 22, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" in the local news section: "Mrs. Ruby, of Rochester, Mo., is visiting her brother Frank Leebrick, and family." Mrs. Ruby is probably Amelia Leebrick, who married Gordon Ruby. Rochester is in Andrew county, just NW of St. Joseph, Mo on US Highway 169.
July 3, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" in the local news section: "The finest field of corn we have seen is on the place of Frank Leebrick southwest of the city."
July 24, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" again in local news: "Mrs. Denning of Twin Creek has been assisting Mrs. Leebrick in the millinery business."
July 31, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" local news: "It was all a mistake about Frank Leebrick being a delegate to the greenback convention at Downs. He was merely attending to some private business in the burg, when the anti-monopolists tried to claim him."
Oct 30, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" local news: "Frank Leebrick has painted the front of his grocery store."
Nov 6, 1884 "Osborne County Farmer" in the weekly summary of real estate transfers: "Frank Leebrick to Samuel Lafferty w hf nw qr and n hf ne qr sec 25, Penn, $1500". This may be a typo, since it is almost identical to his homestead legal description, which is 'n hf nw qr and n hf ne qr sec 25'.
Jan 22, 1885 "Osborne County Farmer" in the local news section: "Frank Leebrick contemplates selling out and engaging in the drug or lumber business at some other point with his nephew, Mr. Verne Ruby, who is at present visiting him." Verne probably is Vernon Ruby, son of Frank's sister Amelia, who was living in Rochester, Mo at the time.
Feb 19, 1885 "Osborne County Farmer" in local news section: "Verne Ruby, after a visit of several weeks, has hied himself home to Missouri. And the ladies morn."
May 7, 1885 "Osborne County Farmer" advertisement text reads as follows: "AT COST Wishing to quit business at this place, I offer my entire stock of GROCERIES At absolute cost. There is no buncombe about this offer, as you will see by calling on F. E. Leebrick, Osborne." This ad also appeared in the May 14, 21 and 28th issues as well as June 4.
June 11, 1885 "Osborne County Farmer" local news section reports that "F. E. Leebrick has sold his grocery establishment to Jim Mills,and will devote his attention to his cattle interests." Earlier articles in the spring had described the growing interest in pure bred cattle in Osborne county.
July 9, 1885 "Osborne County Farmer" reports that "a splendid lot of shorthorn bulls were on sale at Alton last week, having been shipped in by a gentleman from Glen Elder. Thoroughbred stock is becoming generally diffused in this county. Several of the heard sold at prices ranging from $120 to $200, each."
July 23, 1885 "Osborne County Farmer" reports that "Bleam Bros. sold a buggy to Frank Leebrick last week."
Aug 6, 1885 "Osborne County Farmer" reports that "Mills & Forney, whose ad appears in another column, have fitted up the old Leebrick stand on Penn street and stocked it with a large supply of canned goods, tobacco, cigars, nuts, candy, etc. The place is also celebrated for its ice cream and lunches. Give them a call, they will treat you white {sic}."
Oct 8, 1885 "Osborne County Farmer" in local news section has these two reports: "Frank Leebrick this week removed his herd of cattle from Graham county to his farm southwest of town, where he will winter them". "Frank Leebrick should be our next sheriff. He dropped a fine watermelon into our new sanctum last Saturday and we have been shivering ever since." The newspaper had recently moved into new basement quarters. I'm not sure what the reference to shivering is.
Nov 19, 1885 "Osborne County Farmer" in the "5-cent column" which is made up of short classified ads, we read "For Sale Or Trade - 20 head of cow, with calf. Will sell for cash or trade for 1 or 2-year-old steers. F. E. Leebrick
Jan 16, 1886 "Osborne County Farmer" in the local news section: "Frank Leebrick reports that his cattle came through the storm in good shape, but he has a big carbuncle on his hand." A carbuncle is a very painful, inflamed swelling under the skin. A carbuncle discharges pus like a boil but is a more deep-seated infection, has several openings, lacks a hard central core, and is more serious in its effects.
Jan 21, 1886 "Osborne County Farmer" in local news: "Frank Leebrick's pet felon is getting somewhat better." The dictionary gives one meaning of felon as "a very painful inflammation of a finger or toe, usually near the nail." This probably refers to the carbuncle of the week previous.
Feb 11, 1886 "Osborne County Farmer" in local news: "Frank Leebrick is preparing to look up a location somewhere in the western counties. Hardware or drugs are his preferences".
Mar 11, 1886 "Osborne County Farmer" again in the local news section: "Frank Leebrick, having bought out a man named Miller, is running a general merchandise store in Alton."
"Frank Leebrick, for many years a business man of Osborne City, has moved his stock of goods to Alton, where he proposes to increase his stock and hereafter make some money. Mr. Leebrick will be a valuable addition to the business of our thriving, growing town. Alton will grow and don't you forget it."--19 Mar 1886, The Atchison (KS) Daily Champion
April 22, 1886 "Osborne County Farmer" in the Alton section: "F. E. Leebrick has purchased Cash Walker's house."
4 Sep 1886 "Western Empire: "F. E. Leebrick, tgeneral merchant, has built up a splendid trade in the short time he has been here, which demonstrates the fact that business in that line is not overdone. He carries a fine stock".
"Sheriff's Sale Under Execution .. J.R. Loomis and William Rosegrant, as partners by the name of J.R. Loomis&Co., Plaintiffs vs. F.E. Leebrick, Lizzie Leebrick, Burnham, Hanna, Munger & Co., Defendants. By virtue of an order of sale to me directed and delivered, issued out of the 15th District Court of the State of Kansas, sitting in and for Osborne County, in said state, I will, on Saturday, the 4th day of January, A.D. 1890, at 2 o'clock P.M. of said day, at the north court house door in the City of Osborne, in the county and state aforesaid, offer at public sale and sell to the highest bidder, for cash in hand, all the right, title and interest of the above named defendants, in and to the following described real property, to-wit: Lots four (4) and five (5), in block fourteen (*14) in the townsite of Alton (formerly Bull City,) in Osborne County, Kansas. Said property to be sold as the proerty of the above named defendants. W.A. Ware, Sheriff."--4 Dec 1889, Osborne County (KS) Farmer
"Frank Leebrick has moved his famil into the Closen building, first door west of Hindman Bros. real estate and loan office. The upper rooms will be used for living apartments, and the lower for a milliner store."--9 Apr 1891, Osborne County (KS) Farmer
"Frank Leebrick, through Hal. W. Neiswanger, has purchased the old Zeiser property, a few doors west of the First National, and the building will soon be occupied by Mrs. Leebrick with her stock of Millinery goods."--22 Feb 1894, Osborne County (KS) Farmer
"AGRICULTURAL HOSS TROT. The twelfth annual meeting of the Phillips county Agricultural and Mechanical Association was held on Thursday and Friday of last week. Notwithstanding the almost total failure of crops of all kinds, a very good showing was made. In the speed ring several races were had, some of them being closely contested. The following is a summary of the races: ...
The following is a list of premiums awarded. DIVISION B. --HORSES. CLASS 1. -TROTTERS AND ROADSTERS. Leebrick Bros., stallion and 5 colts. 1st place ...Leebrick Bros., stallion 1 year under 2, 2nd place, Leebrick Bros., colt under 1 year, 1st place."--2 Oct 1890, Phillipsburg (KS) Herald
Age given as "11" in 1940 census. Obviously is a typo.
Property Tax Rolls Residents List:
1895 - F.E. Leebrick, Age 45, Lizzie, Age 47
1898 - Frank, Lizzie, Allie
1899 - Lizzie, Allie, not Frank, Allie listed on page "Statistics of Deaf, Dumb, Blind, Insane, Idiotic", Age 22, Idotic, didn't attend school
1900 - Lizzie, Allie, not Frank
Property Tax Rolls
1881 - Block 7 Lot 16, Value $75, value of improvements $250
1881 - Frank still owned homestead farm, 160 acres, value $560, 1 hog $3, Merchant's stock $300
1887 - Lizzie Block 7, Lot 16 Real estate $325, Tax $17.27
1890 - Lizzie block 7, Lot 16, value $355, value of improvements $150, Total $505
1890 - Frank 1 gold watch $15
1893 - Lizzie Block 7, Lot 16, value $560, Taxes 18.48
1894 - Lizzie, Block 7, Lot 16, value $350, taxes $16.19
1894 - Frank Personal Property $44, taxes $2.55
1896 - Block 7 Lot 16 belonged to J. P. Ford
1898- F. E. Leebrick, Property $68, Tax 4.48
1898 Tax Assessor Roll, 1 horse $8, 1 Pleasure carriage $6, 1 Gold Watch $4, Other personal property $125
1899 Did not own Block 7 Lot 16
Osborne County Mortgage Books
1885 April 13 Frank Leebrick to William Mize, E 1/2 of Blk 7, Lot 16
1886 Oct 12 Frank Leebrick to William Bradle E 1/2 of Blk 7, Lot 16
1887 Nov 21 Frank Leebrick purchased Lots 4,5 of Blk 14 in Alton
1888 Jan 27 Another transaction regarding those lots
"...The greatest interest appeared to center in the contest for sheriff, there being six candidates before the (Republican) convention for this office. The candidates were as follows: L.Z. Stump, of Ross; Joe Campbell of Sumner; J.R. Coe and F.E. Leebrick of Osborne; D.A. Smith of Delhi; E.W. Beach of Liberty. Stump led by a few votes on the first ballot and continued to gather strength until the sixth ballot, when he was nominated. Below is the summary of the ballots:....First ballot Leebrick received 1 vote, but he received none on any of the succeeding ballots, out of 123 total."--12 Sep 1895, Osborne County (KS) Farmer
"A Midnight Blaze. The fire fiend again breaks out in Osborne. Friday morning of last week at 1:30 o'clock, the cry "Fire" was heard on our streets and the much dreaded sound of the fire bell rang out which brought our excellent company of fire extinguishers to the scene in twelve minutes after the first sound of alarm. The fire was discovered to have originated in the fram building belonging to James Closen, located on Penn street between Arch and Market. By the prompt and efficient work of the fire department and the system of water works with which this city is blessed, the blaze was soon extinguished, but not until the roof of the Closen bjuilding and the adjoining one on the west was considerably damaged. The building adjoining on the west is occupied by Fred Bader and used for a paint shop. The origin of this fire is, beyond a doubt, of incendiary intent from the fact that the front door opening on Penn street was wide open, the stairway leading directly up to where the fire started, and the fact that a small piece of carpet saturated with kerosene, a small bunch of hay and piece of pine wood with whitlings still clinging to it, was found after the fire, is sufficient evidence that a premeditated crime had been committed. Mr. F. E. Leebrick, who lives in the next house on the west, was the first to discover the gflames and his boy, Max, deserves some credit for his haste in running to the fire bell in his stocking feet to give the alarm. Mr. Burns, the night watch, was near the hose building and opened the doors so the fire laddies were soon on the ground and did nble work for which they are receiving many comments. Mr. Closen, we learn, hold an insurance policy of $500 on the building and $100 oin the furniture, etc. The paint shop, which is owned by some eastern company,, holds no insurance; neither does Mr. Leebrick, who with his family and stock of millinery goods were so dangerously situated.
We hope and trust that whoever this fire fiend may be, will yet be discovered in his or her willful and murderous attempts to destroy property and endanger life and have justice dealt out to them in full measure. A close watch will be kept in this locality and an attempt of a similar charactger will receive its just reward."--13 Feb 1896, Osborne County (KS) News
"Prof. Lohrman in Hard Times. Prof Lohrman, the man with a vitascope and wearisome lecture, who has made Osborne several times during the past few years, has apparently forsaken the paths of honesty and has run against all kinds of trouble as a consequence. A few weeks ago he was arrested on a charge of eloping with a Norton girl, but managed to get out of the scrape. Chas. Leebrick, an Osborne boy, was with Lohrman at this time. Lohrman managed to get control of Leebrick's team of horses in some way to such an extent that it cost Frank Leebrick, the boy's father, some $80 to again get possession of the animals. A couple weeks ago Lohrman stranded at Plainville. he then joined forces with the Knowles circus, a snide affair that was billed in Osborne last summer,but failed to appear. Together they invaded Stockton, where they have since been kept busy dodging creditors, keeping their goods from the sheriff's clutches and giving "bummy" entertainments."--26 Jan 1899, Osborne County (KS) Farmer
"Fire At Cawker. A fire started about 4 o'clock Wednesday morning (4th inst.) in the stone building on Pennsylvania Avenue occupied by Mr. Leebrick as a hotel. Mr. L. and son were up at Osborne, and Mrs. L. and daughter escaped before the fire spread. Only a few of the effects were saved. The low frame buildings south of the hotel, and the sheet iron building owned by H. Burgdrof were also destroyed. Mr. B. saved his jeweler's work bench, regulator clock and two show cases. The engine and hose carriage were early on the ground and volunteer firemen did good work in protecting the Hutchinson livery stable on the opposite side of the street, as the wind blew the sparks in that direction. The hotel was insured for $600 in the National of Hartford. The contents for $400 in the Concordia Co.
Travis&Johnson buildings were insured for $250 in the Continental. H. Burgdorff's building $500 and the contents $250 in the Continental.
J. A. Gordon who was sleeping in the hotel barely escaped with his life, out of a second story window. Chris Lins lost about $45 in harness, blankets, etc. W.C. Pearson lost a $14 overcoat. A stranger who was staying at the hotel is missing."--12 Apr 1900, The Logan (KS) Republican.
"F. E. Leebrick, who recently burned out in Cawker, has been paid $400 insurance money by J. Wilton Higgins of Cawker, local representative of the Concordia Fire Insurance Co. of Milwaukee, Wis. This was the full amount of the Leebrick policy."--26 Apr 1900, Osborne County (KS) Farmer
"Frank Leebrick, formerly of Osborne, has leased the St. James hotel, and entered upon possession. Mr. Leebrick and his family are cordially welcomed to Oberlin. (Oberlin Eye)"--5 Jul 1900, Osborne County (KS) Farmer
"Landlord and Mrs. Leebrick, of the Hotel St. James, entertained Grand Instructor Mohler, of the order of Sons and Daughters of Justice, during his short sojourn in our city, while attending the first annual picnic of the Oberlin council. Mr. Mohler and the Leebricks are old and intimate friends, their acquaintance running back many years. Mr. Mohler is spoken of very highly by our new landlord and his estimable wife. (Oberlin Times)"--2 Aug 1900, Osborne County (KS) Farmer
"The St. James Hotel, at Oberlin, conducted by former Osborne citizens, Mr. and Mrs. F.E. Leebrick had a narrow escape from destruction by fire on Sunday morning, Dec. 2. The flames were extinguished before much damage was done. The fire was of incendiary origin, having been set in two different places. It was first discovered by Miss Allie Leebrick. The Leebricks are unlucky in the way of fires. About a year ago, the hotel conducted by them in Cawker was burned to the ground."--13 Dec 1900, Osborne County (KS) Farmer
"F. E. Leebrick and family, who have been farming one of the Capt. Wolfe farms here the past year, have moved to Grinnell, Gove county, near which place Mr. Leebrick has bought a half section of good land."--28 Mar 1902, The Oberlin (KS) Times
"Frank Leebrick and family have moved into Israel Burger's house, which they will occupy until he can build on the place he purchased recently."--3 Apr 1902, The Hoxie (KS) Sentinel
"A Happy Man. F. E. Leebrick, late proprietor of the St. James Hotel, is now located at Grinnell, Gove county, this state. Frank writes that he has a half section of fine land well fenced and under cultivation, has just completed a 6 room house, has 100 head of fat cattle ready for market, 80 head of fat hogs in pen, 2,750 bushels of wheat on hand and 4,400 bushels of corn in crib, besides 460 tons of kaffir corn and cane. Mr. Leebrick says it makes a man feel good to live on Easy street, and invites any of his Decatur county friends who are weary and tired to come and spend the winter with him, assuring them he has an over surplus of yellow legged chickens on hand and they can feast on spring fries to their hearts content. If this beautiful fall weather we are now blessed with continues and walking is good, we might take it upon ourself to hike out for Grinnel and pay Frank and the boys a visit, for feasting on spring fries puts us in mind of better days.--Oberlin Times"--30 Oct 1902, Osborne County (KS) News
"Frank Leebrick sold a fine milch-cow last week to P.J. Meier, the Grinnell merchant."--29 Jan 1903, The Hoxie (KS) Sentinel
"F. E. Leebrick and wife of Oak Ranch were trading in Atwood last Monday. Mr. Leebrick reports that they have some of the largest potatoes ever raised in Kansas."--14 Jul 1905, The (Atwood KS) Republican Citizen
"Leebrick and sons have just completed a bridge across the Beaver."--5 Sep 1907, The (Atwood KS) Republican Citizen
"Harry Fike and John Thomas, Receiver of the Colby Land Office, came out to the Leebrick ranch in an automobile last week and bought seventy-five head of cattle."--12 Sep 1907, The (Atwood KS) Republican Citizen
"Last week F. E. Leebrick was brought before Justice Hughes, of McDonald, charged with assault upon Lewis Andrews. By consent of Mr. Andrews, Mr. Leebrick was allowed to go under $300 peace bond, and through courtesy of the court he was allowed to take the bond home to get signers, but he failed to return as promptly as was thought proper, and quite a furore was raised, but he finally turned up and the trouble quieted down."--27 Aug 1908, The (Atwood KS) Square Deal
"Mrs. Joseph just completed a very successful term of school in the Leebrick district last Saturday and a good program was also given."--2 May 1912, The (Atwood, KS) Citizen-Patriot
"Mr. and Mrs. Frank Leebrick and son Roy of Rawlins county, uncle, aunt and cousin of the late H.L. Korb, arrived in Hoxie Saturday and remained to attend the funeral of Walter Korb which took place Tuesday afternoon."--9 Mar 1916, The Hoxie (KS) Sentinel
"A letter received this week by J.L. Weber from Frank Leebrick of Cheyenne county, a former resident of Osborne, says Frank is getting wealthy in the pure bred cattle and hog business. he has a heard of about a hundred head of cattle and no end of fine bred hogs. Frank's son Roy is in training camp at Fort Riley. Max Leebrick is farming at Alva, Okla."--31 May 1917, Osborne County (KS) Farmer
"County Surveyor's Notice to Non-resident Land Owner. PUBLICATION NOTICE State of Kansas, Rawlins County.
In the matter of establishing, permanently, the corners and boundaries of land owned and occupied by T. B. Richmond to E. M. Dewey, C. H. Leebrick, R. L. Leebrick and F. E. Leebrick.
You are hereby notified that T. B. Richmond has notified me, as county surveyor of Rawlins county, Kansas, to establish, permanently, the corners and boundaries of the following described tract of land owned and occupied by him and situated in Rawlins county, Kansas, to wit:
Corner common to sections 31 and 32, township 4, range 35 and sections 5 and 6, township 5, range 35, also corner between east one-half and west one-half southeast one-fourth, of section 31 in township 4 south, Range 35 west of the 6th P.M., as between him and you and each of you with respect to tracts of land respectively owned by you, and lying adjacent to the above-described land and that I, as County Surveyor, will, on the 16th day of June, 1919 at 9 o'clock a.m. of said day, at the southeast corner of said section 31 in township 4 South, Range 35 West of the 6th P.M. in said county, proceed according to law, to establish, permanently, said corners and boundaries, at which time you may, if you wish, be present and be heard. H.H. Obert, County Surveyor, Rawlins Co., Kans."--12 Jun 1919, The (Atwood KS)
Citizen-Patriot
"KANSANS BUYING GOOD HEREFORDS --Northwest Kansas is fast coming to the front in the Hereford fraternity because men like Frank Turner and Leebrick Bros., Atwood, Kans., are buying Herefords of the best breeding and individuality. These men recently went out to Fulscher & Kepler's, Holyoke, Colo., and each bought three Prince Domino heifers out of Beau Aster dams. At the same time, Mr. Turner bought a son of Beau Aster out of Prince Domino dam to use in his herd. Leebrick Bros., not to be outdone, boought a son of Beau Aster to place at the head of their herd. The herd of Fulscher & Kepler has been known for many years as one of the constructive breeding institutions in this country and these two Kansas breeders strengthened their herds materially by these additions. Leebrick Bros. bought about a dozen Beau Aster heifers four years ago and in a sale last year disposed of the first calves from these heifers at three times the price they paid for the dams. -- American Hereford Journal."--23 Dec 1920, The (Atwood KS) Citizen-Patriot
"Leebrick Bros. not only have good Hereford cattle, but they also have an extra fine bunch of turkeys. With the present steady turkey market, the Leebricks say they will make good money on their flock of 200."--30 Nov 1922, The (Atwood, KS) Citizen-Patriot