Perry Landis – Drypigment.net

Sosman & Landis, Shaping the Landscape of American Theatre: Perry Landis in Denver, Colorado, 1871-1875.

Perry Landis headed west in 1871, settling in Denver, Colorado. This move occurred immediately after the passing of his paternal grandmother Elizabeth Landis Moss in Blooming Grove, Indiana. Two years earlier, Perry and his older brother, Jacob, moved from Fairfield, Iowa, to Connersville, Indiana, helping work their father’s new vineyard. The Landis farm yielded grapes and small fruits. It was located less than 13 miles north of Blooming Grove. Between in 1869 and 1871, Perry sold grapes and small fruit grown at the Landis vineyard. He also partnered with Samuel M. Zent to sell a fruit and vegetable dehydrator marketed as a Dryhouse.

Perry’s move to Denver, Colorado marked a definitive break from the family business. Despite moving west, he continued to visit both friends and family in Fairfield, Iowa. Many of his comings and goings published in local newspapers. Landis even sent letters to colleagues at the Fairfield newspaper.

On Nov. 21, 1872, the Fairfield Ledger published a letter written by Perry Landis to the Editor of the newspaper. His letter was dated Nov. 5, 1872, with the title “Colorado Correspondence.”

“Editor Ledger,

Having formerly been a resident of Fairfield, and a reader of the Ledger, and thinking a few items from this, the “Garden City” of the Plains, might be of interest, I will endeavor to give you an idea of Denver and its surroundings. The city is located at the conjunctions of Cherry Creek and Platte River, distant 12 miles from the foot of the Rocky Mountains. The Platte is a broad, shallow, but swift stream, furnishing abundant good drinking water and for limited irrigation, but offering no possibilities of navigation – not even ferriage. Cherry Creek is but a broad channel during the summer months, and only occasionally enlivened with any water. For years after the founding of the town none appeared in its bed, and supposing it to have been deserted altogether, the people built and lived in the bottom. Stored, shops and dwellings appeared there, the printing office, also the city records. But of a sudden, after a heavy rain, “Old Cherry” asserted her rights, and a flood came pouring down the old riverbed, not gradually, so as to give warning, but a full-blown torrent and with almost lightning speed reclaimed its own and swept away everything that had usurped its place into destruction. Since then, the people have paid respect to Cherry creek. At some seasons of the year there is still a little water in its sands, but for the most part it is dry through the city; but nobody builds in its bed, and numerous bridges ever its path pays tribute to what once was and may be again.

Denver, at present, contains a population of twelve thousand, and is rapidly increasing. Seven hundred and eighty-three new houses were built during 1871, and there is every reason to believe a like or greater number will be completed this present years. They are mostly brick, with some few frames, and a better class of buildings generally I have never seen in the States. Quite a number of elegant private residences have been erected the past summer, costing all the way from fifteen to forty dollars. The city is beautifully laid out – the streets are broad and straight and lined on either side with long rows of cottonwood trees. One of the chief beauties of Denver is the universal planting of shade trees. Glancing up and down those well-kept streets, with their long rows of trees and streams of water sparkling and dancing in the sunlight, Denver truly presents and attractive and inviting appearance. Here at the very foot of the Rocky Mountains, and in what was once termed the Great American Desert, we have a miniature city with all modern improvements. The streets are lighted with gas; Holly Water Works bring water to the very doors of those who are able to afford it, and in the case of fire it is invaluable. The principal streets are traversed by the Denver Street Railway, on which cars commenced running the first of April last and are paying a good percentage on investment. Eight elegant church buildings, representing two Presbyterian, two Methodist, Catholic, Episcopal, Baptist and Lutheran, —

Good schools and good school buildings. The First ward school building, just completed at a cost of forty-five thousand dollars is an ornament to the city and will compare favorably with anything west of the “Muddy Missouri.” In addition to the public schools, we have a Catholic Covenant school and Wolfe Hall Seminary, for young ladies. Both institutions are highly recommended by patrons and are no doubt creditably and ably managed. A Commercial College and University, both for ladies and gentlemen, does a flourishing business and is highly spoken of. Through the winter months the Denver Theatre is open and occupied by a first-class stock company; it is visited by all the leading stars pf the country, thus affording a first-class entertainment to Denverites. The business portion of the city will compare favorably with any easter town of like size. Buildings are principally of brock, three and four stories high, with iron and stone fronts and plate glass windows. Very heavy stocks of goods are carried by our merchants generally, who, in addition to their retail trade do a heavy jobbing business with smaller towns throughout the Territory and Mexico. Several firms report annual sales to the amount of five thousand dollars, and Solomon Bros, wholesale and retail grocers, report over eight hundred thousand dollars for the past year; so, you may imagine the amount of business done here. Real estate is an important business, over four million dollars’ worth changing hands during 1871.

The business streets of Denver present an interesting study to the student of mankind in general, for here may be seen a variety of different races and colors. The “Heathen Chinee,” with his bundle of washing on his head habited in Oriental costume may be seen at all times. They do all the washing for a subsistence, and for “two bit-ee Melican Man-ee will wash-ee shirt-ee heap clean-ee.” Some of them have rather curious names, such as Quang Chang, Fee Lang, Gee Whoa, Fough Lee, Whoa Haw, &c. Mr. “Lo,” in all his native toggery and greasiness, with all the majesty of red paint, blankets, beads, and scalps taken from their deadly enemies, the Cheyenne appear on the streets every day. They are usually armed to the teeth with rifles, revolvers, bows and arrows. Their faces are smeared with red and yellow paint and their dress is a conglomeration of everything. Now as cold weather approaches, they are beginning to wear more than a pair of moccasins and a flour sack (their usual summer costume). They ride sorry looking ponies, and, without an exception are the most miserable and worthless set of vagabonds the sun shines on. The belong to the Cimmaron Ute tribe, whose reservation is near here. Many other characters of interest may be seen – the mountaineer, the miner, and the ranchman; and the swarthy Mexican, mounted on a “Boore” and driving six yoke of long-horned cattle, in a picture of contentment as is seldom seem. The flashy gambler, and the usual number of deadbeats, cappers and stool pigeons dominate; and so alarmingly has this vice increased that active measures have been taken by authorities for its suppression. Hardly a day passes but what some individual who is not up to “ways that are dark and tricks that are vain,” gets fleeced out of his earned “nuggets.”

The mining interest of the Territory is being pushed to the extent of the owner’s capabilities and is yielding bountifully. The increase of the amount taken out this year will double that of last year. The principal mining regions are Central City, Georgetown, Black Hawk and Mounts Lincoln and Bros. Wages for miners $3.50 to $5.00 per day and plenty of work.

During the summer the weather is delightful, especially the mornings and evenings; but about 12 M. “Old Sol” does his level best, and the mercury runs up to 100 degrees in the shade. However, about 6 P.M. it begins to. Get cool, and after dark a light overcoat is not uncomfortable. We had an abundance of rain the past summer, rendering the irrigation almost unnecessary, and we have reason to believe that this “rainless” country is undergoing a systemic change for the better. The mountain view from Denver is grand and beautiful. Pike’s Peak, with its snow-capped summit mat be seen off to the south apparently about ten miles distant, yet in reality it is seventy miles away in a direct line. Long’s Peak, to the north, seems as near, yet it is sixty-five miles away. To the west rises Grey’s Peak and the Snowy Range extending as far as the eye can reach, covered with snow and beautiful forests of pine. Even the foothills, twelve miles distant, at times appear no more than two. Many are the poor fellows from the Easy who started to walk over to them before breakfast, just to give themselves and appetite, you know; and just so many of said poor fellows have returned without reaching them and wondering “how in the word them confounded mountains contrived to move away as they approached.” I have heard of one plucky fellow who persevered in his walk and finally arrived in Golden City, sixteen miles distant – He took the cars for Denver and left for the East the next day, declaring he would not stay in such a “blarsted country.” The hotels are and have been crowded with travelers, tourists and sight-seers from every State, and even from Europe. Quite a number of the English capitalists and nobility are largely interested in mines in this territory. The Marquis of Queensbury is here at present, looking after his mining interests in person. I am very much pleased with Colorado – its climate, mountains and general go-a-headitiveness of its people; and to anyone contemplating coming West I would say, come to Colorado –

Where the cabbages grow so fast

That they burst with a noise like the thun-

ders and blast;

Where through the rich, deep, mellow soil,

The beats grow down as if boring for oil.

PERRY LANDIS”

Colorado presented an abundance of opportunities, and people arrived to the western territories in droves.

The publication History of the City of Denver, Arapahoe County and Colorado described the population boom:

“At the end of 1872, Denver claimed a population of 15,000, an increase of about 5,000 during the year. The excess of business for 1872 over the preceding year was estimated at three and a half millions. Real estate was active…Denver was on the high road to prosperity as she had never been before at any period of her history” (Page 227).

Colorado newspaper accounts repeatedly mentioned Landis in the region between 1872 and 1875, as he became involved with several business ventures that ranged from fruit trees to lightning rods.

Landis & Witter listing in 1873, Denver, Colorado.

In 1872, Landis partnered with Daniel Witter (1827-1906) to establish Landis & Witter’s Denver Nursery. Witter was Perry’s first cousin, the eldest of ten children born to Catherine Landis Witter (1807-1897) and Samuel Witter (1804-1852). Catherine Landis Witter was an older sister to Henry H. Landis (Perry’s father). They were two of six children born to David Landis and Elizabeth Peckleshimer Landis. The four other siblings were Rebecca Landis Shideler, Sarah Landis Myers, Elizabeth Landis Ellis, and Jacob B. Landis. Perry’s cousin Daniel Witter was born in Franklin County, Indiana, the same county where Perry’s father bought the vineyard and Perry’s grandmother passed away the year before.

1873 Directory listing for Landis & Witter in the Denver City Directory

1873 listing for Daniel Witter, cousin of Perry Landis, in the Denver Directory.

By the time Perry arrived in Denver, Witter was quite successful, working as a lawyer, land agent, and U.S. Assessor. I am including Daniel Witter’s obituary, as it provides some context for Landis & Witter.

Daniel Witter’s gravestone in Fairmount Cemetery, Denver, Colorado.

On Jan. 29, 1906, The Greely Tribune announced:

“Dan Witter Dead.

Daniel Witter, one of the oldest and ablest pioneers in Colorado, and one of the original trustees of Union Colony that located Greeley, died in his home in Denver last Saturday, This leaves H. T. West of this city the only surviving member of the original board of trustees.

Mr. Witter was born in Franklin county, Indiana, April 3, 1827. He was educated in the schools of his birthplace, where he studied law, and in 1855 married Miss Clara V. Matthews, half-sister of Schuyler Colfax, afterward speaker of the house of representatives, and in 1868, vice president of the United States. Mr. Witter came to Colorado, or what was then known as Pike’s Peak Gold Region, in 1859. He went to the Tarryall placer mines in Park county where he was elected judge of the miners’ court. When the territory of Colorado was organized by congress in 1861, he was elected to the first territorial legislature. Shortly afterward President Lincoln appointed him assessor of internal revenue for Colorado with headquarters at Denver, which office he retained until the system was abolished. After the adjournment of the first legislature, he returned to Indiana for his family, and with his wife and two children occupying a light spring wagon, he drove from Ottumwa, Iowa, across the plains to Hamilton, in the South Park, where the resided until 1862, when they moved to Denver” (page 4).

Witter was 45 yrs. old when he partnered with his younger cousin Perry, then 24-yrs.-old. In many ways, Landis was trained by a remarkable businessman who truly understood the power of publicity. In the beginning of their partnership, Landis and Witter both lived and worked together.

In 1873 their directory listing was:

Witter, Daniel, lawyer, real estate agt, and U. S. Assessor, ws G, bet. Larimer and Holladay, r. Larimer, sw. cor. Arapahoe av.

Landis, Perry (Landis & Witter), bds, Larimer, sw cor. Arapahoe av.

On Dec. 6, 1873, the Denver Daily Times reported, “Attention is directed to the card of Perry Landis & Daniel Witter, who have a large lot of hardy Colorado-grown fruit, ornamental trees, vines. Etc., which can be bought very low (page 2).

1873 Advertisement in the “Denver Times.” listing for Landis & Witter.

Landis & Witter placed a series of advertisements in the Denver Daily Times during Dec. 1873 and Jan. 1874, advertising,

“Trees. Trees. Trees.

Denver Nursery,

Landis & Witter, Prop’s,

Have now on hand a well-assorted stock of hardy Fruit and Ornamental Trees, Vines, Plants &c. all Colorado grown, which we are selling, for spring delivery at PANIC PRICES.

STREET TREES A SPECIALTY.

Reserve your orders for our agent, who will call on you soon. Nursery head of Ferry st., West Denver. Office, Good’s Block, No. 252 16^th st.”

They were still living together at 186 Larimer when the 1874 Denver Directory was published:

Landis, Perry (Landis & Witter), r. 186 Larimer.

Witter, Daniel, abstracts of title, lawyer, real estate, etc., 252 16^th, r 186 Larimer.

The firm of Daniel & Witter was short-lived, only lasting until the summer of 1874, On June 14, 1874, in the Rocky Mountain News announced:

“Dissolution Notice!

The co partnership heretofore existing between the undersigned in this day dissolved by mutual consent. Perry Landis

Daniel Witter

Denver, CO. June 10, 1874” (page 1).

When their partnership was dissolved, each immediately invested in another business opportunity. Witter partnered with William D. Todd to establish the law firm of Witter & Todd, located in Witter’s offices at 252 16^th street, near Larimer. At the same time, Landis partnered with Wright F. Kelsey (1828-1902) to establish Kelsey & Landis, a firm that manufactured lighting rods.

Prior to partnering with Landis, Kelsey was the sole proprietor for the Lightning rod Company. His lightning rod advertisements in the “Denver Daily Times” listed “W. F. Kelsey as Proprietor of the Patent Right for Colorado.”

Landis partnered with Kelsey in early July to establish Kelsey & Landis. On July 9, 1874, the “Denver Daily Times” advertised:

LIGHTNING.

Protect Your House

By the

Cable Lighting Rod.

You will place them upon my house at your earliest convenience – Cyrus W. Field

I agree with others in their approval – Sam’l F. B. Morse

I entirely approve of your rod – Benj. Stillman. KELSEY & LANDIS,

Proprietors of Patent Rights for Colorado

[Address through Denver P. O.]

Rods erected at short notice. All work warranted.

Also, Marble and Marbleized Slate Mantels, Weather Vanes, and Iron Cresting furnished to order at lower prices.”

Their partnership was also short-lived, lasting less than a month. On August 14, 1874, the “Denver Daily Times” announced,

“Dissolution of Co Partnership.

Denver, July 29, 1874 – Notice is hereby given that the firm of Kelsey & Landis, in business of selling lightning rods, has this day been dissolved by mutual consent. All outstanding accounts to be paid to W. F. Kelsey, except notes mentioned in receipts dated July 29, 1874.

W. F. Kelsey

Perry Landis”

(page 1).

Landis established another lighting rod company in August, partnering with Samuel Seth Landon (1842-1918) and William David Todd (1846-1919). Yes, this is the same Todd who partnered with Witter to establish a law firm two months earlier.

1876 listing Landon and Todd. Both worked for Daniel Witter.

Landis’ new firm with Todd and Landon was initially listed in the City Directory as “Lightning Rod Co., Perry Landis & Co., props.” It was also advertised as “Perry Landis & Co.”

Listing in 1875 Corbette Hoye and Co. Directory, Denver, Colorado.

1875 listing for Perry Landis & Co. in the Denver Directory.

Lightning rods were big business at this time, preying on people’s fear. Advertisement promised that protection by “controlling Mother Nature’s wrath.” On July 25, 1874, The Colorado Daily Chieftain reported, “The lightning rod men are busy in Denver since the recent storm. Cases of insanity among the citizens will soon be reported” (page 2). Lightning rod salesmen soon ran the gamut, and some were referred to as “swindlers”, peddling a product that did not work. Newspapers evened cautioned citizens about these poor imitations, urging “every owner of a house or barn to examine his lightning rods, and if not found in order to pull them down” (The Rocky Mountain Daily News, August 4, 1874, page 3). Despite the bad press, the sale of lightning rods was big business in areas with severe weather. Here is a link to Herman Melville’s short story, “The Lightning-Rod Man,” published in the August 1854 edition of Putnam’s Monthly Magazine: https://www.101bananas.com/library2/lightningrod.html

When Perry Landis & Co. was established, Todd and Landon were investors. Landis was the salesman. I am taking a moment to explore the life of Landis’ business partner William D. Todd, as it provides context for the firm.

Portrait of William D. Todd

Hon. William D. Todd’s biography was included in The History of the City of Denver, Arapahoe County and Colorado:

Mr. Todd, Cashier and Secretary of the Denver Safe Deposit and Savings Bank, has been a resident of Denver since 1873. He was born in the city of Philadelphia in 1846, and, at an early age, accompanied his parents to Greensburg, Penn., where his father died shortly after the war. He then removed to Washington, D.C., receiving a public-school education, and, in 1857, was appointed a page in the House of Representatives. He remained at the capitol up to 1873, the last ten years as Private Secretary to Hon. Schuyler Colfax, during his terms as Speaker of the House of Representatives and Vice President of the United States. In the meantime, he graduated from the Columbia College Law School, and was admitted to the bar in 1867. He kept up his law studies, practicing in Pennsylvania during the vacations of Congress, and, in 1872, was admitted to the practice in the Supreme Court of the United States. As above stated, he came to Denver in 1873, and engaged in the practice of his profession. Since 1874, he has been Cashier and Secretary of the Denver Safe Deposit and Savings Bank, of which he was one of the incorporators. During the past year he has been Secretary of the Platte Water Company for several years. He is also Treasurer of the St. Louis and Denver Land and Mining Company, and Secretary of the Board of Education since 1876. He was a member of the State Legislature of 1879 and was active in the business session. Declining to be a candidate for the Speakership of the House, he was chosen Speaker pro tem., and also served as Chairman of the Committees on Public Lands and Rules, and is a member of the Committees on Judiciary, Appropriations and Education. Among the measures introduced by him was the ‘Bill for Encouraging the Formation of a State Historical and Natural History Society,’ of which society he was chosen Treasurer. Mr. Todd is a leading member of the Masonic Fraternity, and holds offices of trust in Union Lodge No. 7, Denver Chapter No. 2, and Colorado Commandery No. 1, K. T. He is also the Grand Treasurer of the Grand Chapter and Grand Commandery. He was married in Denver in 1875. Few men in Denver have, in so short a time, been so thoroughly identified with the interested of the city and State, and no one has acquired a more enviable reputation as a thorough businessman and a wide-awake, enterprising citizen. (page 678)

Landis’ other business partner, Samuel Seth Landon (1842-1918), was a notary public with Daniel Witter, residing at Curtis, se cor. 16^th. Both Todd and Landon were working for Witter, Landis’ first business partner in Denver.

Looking at the names, addresses, and businesses, in the City Directory made me think of a shell game. You never knew who exactly was establishing or dissolving a business, but the same people were always involved. This tactic would follow Landis to Chicago after he partnered with Sosman. Sosman and Landis would continue to invest and establish a variety of In Denver, Landis, Witter, Todd, and Landon all lived and worked together, and around, one other. Landis & Witter’s nursery offices were located at 252 16^th street in 1874. The law firm of Witter & Todd was located at 252 16^th in 1874. This address was located between Larimer and Holladay streets.

In Denver, Landis published a series of advertisements that described the merits of his lightning rod product. On August 22, 1874, the following informative article appeared in the “Denver Daily Times” –

“Lightning Storms.

The number of these storms during the present season has been greater than we have ever experienced here, and each storm has resulted in more or less damage. The number of houses struck the warnings to our citizens to use every precaution to save their buildings, and perhaps loves, in the future. We therefore desire to call the attention of our citizens to the improved Electro-Magnetic, or Cable Lighting Rod. This lightning rod has been tested and is recommended by such eminent names as Cyrus Field, Prof. Morse, and a host of others.

The advantages claimed for this rod are: It has no joints or couplings; it will not corrode; it is strong and durable; it has fixtures of the most approved patterns and quality; it has an unequalled conducting surface; it has the approval of our highest scientific authorities; it has been tested for over sixteen years; it never fails. Perry Landis & Co. are general agents for this rod, and their principal office is at the corner of 15^th and Lawrence streets, McClelland’s block.”

I was fascinated to read that Perry Landis & Co. was the only lightning rod dealer listed in the 1875 Corbett, Hoye & Co. Denver City Directory. His firm peppered local newspapers with advertisements throughout 1874 and the beginning of 1875.

[insert ad images]

On May 15, 1875, “The Rocky Mountain News” published the last news about Landis’ firm:

“Notice.

The firm of Perry Landis & Co., take this opportunity of returning their thanks to Mr. Julius Pearce, chief engineer of the fire department, and Mr. Thos. Clayton, foreman, and members of Hook and Ladder Company No. 1, for their valuable assistance, and loan of their ladders, in the erection of the lightning conductor on the smokestack of Holly water works, to-day, Perry Landis & Co. Denver, May 14, 1875” (page 4).

As with Landis & Witter and Kelsey & Landis, the firm of Perry Landis & Co. did not last long. On May 29, 1875, the dissolution of the firm, dated May 14, 1875, was published in the Denver Times:

“The firm of Perry Landis & Co. was this day dissolved by mutual consent. Either partner will pay any outstanding debts. Perry, Landis, Sam S. Landon and William D. Todd. Denver, May 14, 1875”

On May 29, 1875, the Denver Daily Times announced, “Dissolution notice. The firm of Perry Landis & Co. was this day dissolved by mutual consent. Either partner will pay any outstanding debts. Perry Landis, Sam S. Landon and William D. Todd, Denver May 14, 1875” (page 2).

Prior to the dissolution of the firm that spring, Landis visited Fairfield, Iowa.

On March 18, 1875, the Fairfield Ledger reported, “Perry Landis has been spending a few days with his many friends in Fairfield.”

Landis was mentioned again in the Fairfield Ledger, a separate notice that stated, “Davey Beck leaves for Denver to-day in company with Perry Landis. He goes to remain some time.”

Portrait of David Beck

David Beck (1853-1938) was the son of long-time Fairfield residents, and local merchants, William G. Beck (1819-1901) and Margaret Ramsay Beck (1824-1908). Like the Landis family, the Beck family moved west to Fairfield in the late 1840’s.

Years later, Davey Beck’s obituary in The Missoulian reported, “Born in Fairfield, Iowa, he came to Montana in 1880 to Alder Gulch and in 1895 came to Missoula” (10 June 1938, p. 16). The obituary continued, “Mr. Beck was one of the best known insurance men in Montana for many years. For 30 years he was a state agent for the Banker’s Life Insurance company here. He left Missoula nearly 20 years ago for California.” His grandmother, Sarah Beck, and Abraham Lincoln were mentioned in a section of William G. Beck’s obituary, published in The Fairfield Ledger on January 30, 1901. This tie to the Lincoln family is worthy of inclusion at this point:

‘While Mr. BECK’s memory was rich in recollections of pioneer life, and he always knew his story and told it well, there were none of his reminiscences more interesting than those of Springfield, Ill. His mother, Mrs. Sarah BECK, kept a tavern in the early days at Wheeling and engaged in the same business at Springfield, Ill. She was a woman of unusual energy and much executive ability, and any house she operated was certain of the best possible patronage. At Springfield her hotel was the scene of many a notable gathering of Illinois politicians in the early ’40’s, and there were times when as much legislation was transacted within its walls as in the capitol itself. When Abraham LINCOLN married Mary TODD he had just established himself in practice as a lawyer at Springfield, after several terms of service in the legislature, and he and his wife made their home with Mrs. BECK. Robert TODD LINCOLN, the only surviving child of the martyr president, was born beneath her roof August 1st, 1843, and she aided in ushering him into the world. There was a warm intimacy between the family of the great statesman and that of his landlady, and the BECKs were very familiar with the domestic life of the LINCOLNs and with the peculiarities of Mr. LINCOLN. On Mr. BECK’s mind, of course, the drolleries of Mr. LINCOLN made the greatest impression, and he always had a fund of LINCOLN stories at his command, many of which have never found their way into print.” Landis returned to Iowa that summer, and on Aug 19, 1875, the Fairfield Ledger announced, “Perry Landis is with us again – and from Colorado” (page 5).

Landis returned to Iowa that summer, and on Aug 19, 1875, the Fairfield Ledger announced, “Perry Landis is with us again – and from Colorado” (page 5). This is just prior to Joseph Sosman’s arrival in Fairfield to paint scenery at Semon’s Opera House.

To be continued…

Sosman & Landis, Shaping the Landscape of American Theatre. Perry Landis: From Soldier to Salesman

Perry was the eighth of twelve children born to Henry H. Landis (1809-1893) and Catherine Johnston Landis (1817-1902). He was the third Landis brother to fight for the Union.

In 1860, the following children were living at the Landis farm in Steady Run Township, Iowa: David (21 yrs.), Jacob (19 yrs.), Joseph (16 yrs.), Perry (12 yrs.), James H. (8 yrs.), Edgar (6 yrs.), Franklin (3 yrs.) and Charles (2 yrs.). Their eldest daughter, Mary, and son, John lived in nearby Martinsburg.

Martinsburg was less than two miles south of Steady Run Township, Iowa.

Between 1860 and 1863, three of the Landis children passed away.

On Dec. 18, 1860, 9-yrs.-old son, James Henry Landis, and was buried in Martinsburg Cemetery.

The gravestone of James H. Landis in Martinsburg Cemetery.

On Jan. 1, 1861, their 29-yrs.-old daughter, Mary Ann Landis Marshall, also died. She was buried near her brother in Martinsburg Cemetery.

Gravestone of Mary Landis Marshall in Martinsburg Cemetery.

Then came the Civil War, with four of the Landis sons enlisting in the Union Army. On Jan. 8, 1863, both John and David Landis were severely injured in battle, with 23-yrs.-old David passing away that December.

Gravestone of David Landis in Martinsburg Cemetery.

War and death loomed over the Landis’ Iowa home.

Five of the eight Landis sons were old enough to fight in the Civil War. Only Edgar, Frank, and Charles were too young to fight.

John, David, Jacob and Perry Landis all enlisted in the Union Army. John Landis was the first to enlist, rapidly rising through the ranks for his heroic actions. He must have been a tough act to follow; a courageous risk-taker who made the headlines for his bravery. By 1863, both John and his younger brother David were in the same regiment and severely wounded in Springfield, Missouri.

The same year that John and David mustered out of the Iowa Infantry, Jacob and Perry mustered into the Ohio Infantry and Indiana Infantry, respectively. Only Joseph managed to avoid combat. Although he registered for military service alongside David and Jacob in Steady Run, Iowa, he did not serve. I have yet to locate any records verifying that he enlisted at all.

Here is what I have been able to track down for each of the four Landis brothers who fought in the Civil War.

18^th Regiment, Iowa Infantry

John Landis

John Landis was 27 yrs. old when he enlisted on June 13, 1861. He joined Co. I, 1^st Iowa Calvary, and was promoted to first battalion quartermaster by October 8, 1861. John became a Captain in Co. D, 18^th Iowa Infantry, on June 6, 1862. He was promoted after capturing the Rebel flag during the Battle of Blackwater in Missouri. I was shocked to find one of his descendants post a picture of the flag he captured online.

Rebel flag captured by Quartermaster John Landis at the Battle of Blackwater in Dec. 1861. Photograph by Lester Letson and posted at findagrave.com on July 6, 2012.

On Jan. 8, 1863, John was severely wounded during battle in Springfield, Missouri. His bravery was described in the Daily Ohio Statesman on Feb 24, 1863 (page 1):

“An Incident of the Battle of Springfield.

I must close third letter with an incident of the battle of Springfield, which deserves accord. Captains Landis, Van Meter, and Blue of the 18^th Iowa, were all with that unfortunate brass cannon, which then fell into the hands of rebels. All three were shot. Two have since died, but Capt. Landis happily survives. It is said that Captain Landis stood by the gun, deserted by all else, when rebels took possession, determined never to surrender. Major Bowman, of the Confederate army, approached at the head of his men. Touched with a sense of the man’s chivalry, he cried: ‘Surrender!’

‘Never!’ said Captain Landis. ‘I was here first. Never!’

The Major seized a rifle and fired, carrying away the Captain’s shoulder strap. The Captain returned the compliment and wounded Major Bowman so severely that he has since died. Captain Landis himself fell at the next fire, and the dying Major sent him this message, as he lay dying upon his bed: ‘Tell Captain Landis,’ said he, ‘that I am gratified to have fallen by the hand of so brave a man.’ It seems that the age of chivalry is not yet passed. –Springfield (Mo.) Cor. St. Louis Republican.”

John mustered out on Feb 28, 1863, in St. Louis, Missouri; resigning, and listing his residence as Martinsburg, Iowa. After the war, John moved west, spending the remainder of his life in Colorado, California, Oregon and Washington State. He returned to life on a farm. Despite living so far away from his family, John named his three sons after the brothers he left behind:

Perry John Landis

John Albert Landis

Joseph Franklin Landis

I have located only one newspaper article that mentioned John’s return to the Midwest. On March 16, 1882, the Fairfield Tribune announced, John Landis, a citizen of Fairfield twenty years ago, was in the city this week” (page 3).

John passed away in 1915, and was buried in Oakwood Cemetery in Tacoma, Washington. His obituary was published in the Tacoma Daily Ledger on April 28, 1915 (page 5):

“John A. Landis, age 80, died Monday night at a local hospital. He was a veteran of the Civil War and was severely wounded at Springfield, Mo. Mr. Landis enlisted June 13, 1861, in Company I, 1^st Iowa Calvary, and was promoted to first battalion quartermaster October 7, 1861. He was appointed captain of Company D, 18^th Iowa Infantry, June 6, 1862. He resigned February 28, 1863, after being wounded. Mr. Landis had lived at Puyallup a year, coming from Olympia and Orting. He was a member of Tacoma Post of Olympia. Custer post of Tacoma will have charge of the funeral, the date which will be announced later. Besides his widow, he is survived by two sons, Joseph and Perry Landis. The body is at the C. C. Mellinger company’s.”

18^th Regiment, Iowa Infantry

David Landis

David Landis was the second to fight, joining the Union Army two years after John. He was living in Martinsburg, Iowa, when he enlisted on Aug. 15, 1862. Martinsburg is the same town where his sister Mary passed away in 1860. At 24 yrs. old, he mustered in as a Private in Co. D, 18^th Regiment, Iowa Infantry, on August 23, 1862. This was the same regiment where John served as a Capt. of the first Cavalry. The 18^th Regiment arrived in Springfield, Missouri, on September 13, 1862. He participated in the Defense of Springfield from and was wounded in battle on Jan. 8, 1863, and included in the list “Iowa Soldiers Killed and Wounded at the Battle of Springfield, Missouri, Jan. 8^th,” On Jan. 30, 1863, the Muscatine Weekly News announced, “David Landis, D, 18^th – right hip and leg, slight” (page 2). He never recovered from the injuries and passed away on Dec. 20, 1863.

Both John and his younger brother David Landis were listed in the “Army Correspondence” section of the Burlington Daily Hawk Eye Gazette on Jan. 22, 1863 (page 2). In the section entitled “Camp of the 18^th Iowa, Fort No. 1, Springfield, Missouri, Jan. 10^th, 1863,” a detailed account of the battle was included, along with a listing of those killed or wounded with each of the companies. The article reported,

“Company D.- Killed, none. Capt. John A. Landis, wounded in the calf of the leg, severely; private David Landis, calf of the leg and thigh, severely.”

Although John mustered out on Feb. 28, David was not mustered out until May 8, with “wounds” being the reason for his release. David returned home to Martinsburg, but never fully recovered and died from complications on Dec. 20, 1863. He was buried in the same Martinsburg Cemetery as his older sister Mary.

Joseph Landis did not serve in the Iowa Infantry but was twice listed in Iowa records as a person subject to military duty in Steady Run Township; once in 1863 at the age of 18 yrs. old (Jackson County), and once in 1864 at the age of 19 yrs. old in (Keokuk County). If any new information comes to light, I will update this post.

131^st Ohio Infantry

Jacob H. Landis

Jacob H. Landis was listed in Ohio’s Third Congressional District Civil War Draft Registration Record on July 11, 1863, This district included the counties of Montgomery, Preble, Butler, and Warren. At 21 yrs. old, Jacob his occupation as a carpenter in Randolph. He entered military service on May 2, 1864, mustering in as a Private with Company K, 131^st Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. This regiment was organized at Camp Chase on May 14, 1864, with the intent to serve for 100 days. They were immediately sent to Baltimore, Maryland, where they were assigned to garrison duty at Forts McHenry, Fort Marshall, and Fort Federal Hill. The regiment remained at the forts until August 19, when the soldiers were sent back to Columbus, Ohio, arriving on Aug. 21, 1864. Landis mustered out on Aug. 25, 1864, at Camp Chase.

116^th Regiment, Indiana Infantry

Perry Landis

Perry Landis enlisted in the Indiana Infantry at Lafayette and was mustered in on August 12, 1863. For geographical context, Lafayette is located approximately halfway in between Chicago and Indianapolis. Landis mustered out a second time out on March 1, 1864. Landis served as a private in Co. F of the 116^th Regiment, Indiana Infantry. Perry when he served as a private in Co. F, 116^th Regiment, Indiana Infantry. This places him in Lafayette, Indiana, by the spring of 1863. After the war, Perry returned to the Fairfield area of Iowa, soon settling in Ottumwa, a town 25 miles west of Fairfield. In 1867, he purchased property there. The sale was reported in the Ottumwa Semi-Weekly Courier on Nov. 28, 1867 (page 3). For $1500, Landis purchased “pts w se sec 29, tp 72, r 13” from T. Devin.” On Sept. 24, 1868, The Ottumwa Courier listed Perry Landis in the “Register of Voters of Center Township, Wapello County, Iowa, for 1868” (page 3).

Buying land did not necessarily mean that Perry was ready to settle down. He soon ventured east to briefly worked as a news agent in Ohio. He was listed in the 1868 Cincinnati Directory, rooming as 137 Race.

Perry Landis listed in the 1868 Cincinnati Directory.

Perry was also was listed in the unclaimed letter section of the Cincinnati Commercial on April 5 and April 12, 1868. By 1869, he was living with his parents in Connersville, Indiana.

Like Perry, Jacob also returned to Iowa after the war. In Fairfield he opened a watch and clock repair shop at the northeast corner of Park. By 1866, he began placed a series of advertisements in the Fairfield Ledger for his new business. On October 25, 1866, his ad announced:

“Have you got a watch or clock that won’t keep time? If you have, take it to Jacob Landis, North-east corner of the Park, and for a reasonable compensation, he will put it in first0rate working order. If you wish to have a piece of gold or silver manufactures into a particular pattern, he can accommodate you Call and try him. See card” (Fairfield Ledger, page 5).

Like his brothers, “Jake” continued to travel throughout the region; his comings and goings noted in local papers. On Feb. 27, 1868, the “Fairfield Ledger” reported, “Back Again. – Jake Landis is a sensible fellow and good workman. He is a good fellow, because he likes Fairfield better than any other place, he has seen during the last six months. And he is a good workman, because he can clean a watch as well as any man who has tried in our city for years – He has hung out his sign at his old stand in F. M. Stewart’s store and will repair clocks, watches, jewelry, &c., in the best manner and on the lowest terms. See his card” (page 6).

Advertisement placed by Jacob Landis in the “Fairfield Ledger” on June 25, 1868.

In addition to running his shop in Fairfield, he also invested in a new product – the ready binder.

On June 4, 1868, the Fairfield Ledger announced, “A Ready Binder. – The Covert File and Binder, patented by Landis & Co., of St. Louis, is just the thing for persons who wish to preserve their pamphlets and papers. Any person can readily bind his own books and preserve them in good style. J. Landis, of our town, has the agency for Iowa, and will sell county and individual rights on the most favorable terms. Covers for Godey, Peterson, Harper, sheet music, and the weekly papers, sold at reasonable process. Every family that takes a magazine ought to have one of more of these binders. Persons desiring rights should address J. Landis, Fairfield, Iowa” (page 6).

I have yet to locate any information about the firm “Landis & Co.” in St. Louis. The ready binder, however, was short-lived. Jake continued to place ads for his repair business in the Fairfield Ledger (June 25, 1868, p. 6).

Despite Perry owning property in Ottumwa, Iowa, and Jacob managing his repair shop in Fairfield, Iowa, both relocated to Indiana in 1869. They were following their parents and helping out at the new farm. In 1868 Henry, Catherine and their younger children moved east, purchasing a vineyard just south of Connersville, Fayette County, Indiana.

Map showing the location of Connersville, Indiana, in relation to Indianapolis, Indiana, and Cincinnati, Ohio.

Their return east was likely instigated by Henry’s 88-yrs.-old mother. Perry and Jacob moved to Connersville where they again worked for their father on his farm. The only difference was that Henry now raised grapes. I was fascinated to learn that this region of Indiana is considered the “birthplace of the American wine industry. The first successful winery was founded by a Swiss immigrant around 1806. Here is a link for more information about the history of Indiana Wine Trail: https://www.indianawinetrail.com/history

On April 8, 1868, Henry Landis began placing advertisements in the Connersville Weekly Times (page 2):

Attention.

I offer for sale, 1,500 Concord, Hartford, Prolifie, and Delaware Grape vines, one year old, in fine thrifty condition. Apply at the farm formerly owned by Job Stout, two and a half miles south of Connersville. By that winter, Henry Landis divested himself of all property in Fairfield. On Dec. 16, 1868, the Weekly Ledger announced the following real estate transfer: “N. MENDENHALL from H. H. LANDIS and wife, lot 2, block 15, old plat of Fairfield. deed dated August 14, 1868. 1,300 00.”

I was only familiar with the common Concord grape as I read the advertisement.

The common Concord grape.

In case you are wondering, the Hartford grape variety is an American red grape, also known as Framingham grapes. The Delaware grape is hybrid popularized in Delaware City, Ohio, also an American red grape. I have yet to identify the “Prolifie” grape and have begun to wonder if it was a misprint.

Henry’s new vineyard brought him very close to his aging mother and sisters. Henry’s mother, Elizabeth Landis Moss was then living with her daughter Elizabeth McWhorter in Blooming Grove, just 13 miles south of Connersville. As Landis’ new vineyard was on the southside of Connersville, this distance was even shorter that.

Map showing the relatively short distance between Connersville and Blooming Grove, Indiana. Nearby Liberty (top right corner of map) was where Joseph Landis lived and worked.

The 1860 U. S. Federal Census had listed 82-yrs.-old Elizabeth Moss living with her 73-yrs.-old husband, John Moss, on a farm in Blooming Grove, valued at $6,120. When John passed away on Oct. 22, 1862, Elizabeth Moss went to live with her widowed daughter, Elizabeth McWhorter. The 1870 US Census listed Moss as still part of the McWhorter household in Blooming Grove. At the time, Moss was 91 yrs. old and living with the one child who truly understood her past struggles. Both mother and daughter had outlived two husbands. Elizabeth Moss had been widowed while pregnant with David Landis’ fourth child in 1814. For the next four years she struggled as a single parent, raising her four small children. In 1818, she married John Moss; a union that resulted in the birth of their only child, Phebe Moss.

Elizabeth McWhorter was also married twice and widowed as a young woman. She first married Thomas Ellis, and the two celebrated the birth of five children. After his passing, she married Samuel H. McWhorter. Their union also resulted in the birth of a single child, Perry L. McWhorter. Both women lived to be 92 yrs. old, with Elizabeth Moss passing in 1871 and her daughter following in 1906. Each was an amazingly strong and independent woman. In fact, I was surprised to discover that at the age of 91-yrs.-old, Elizabeth Moss purchased a property in Connersville. On Sept. 22, 1869, the Connersville Examiner announced the following real estate transaction: “Lemuel R. Webb to Elizabeth Moss, nw qr of sec 31, town 15, range 13, $1,000” (page 3). For context, $1,000 in 1869 has the equivalent purchasing power as $22,306.10 in 2023. Keep in mind that the Moss family farm had been valued at $6120 in 1860 (the equivalent purchasing power of $223,684.53 in 2023). Unless everything was lost at the time of her husband’s passing or during the Civil War, Elizabeth Moss likely left a large estate for her children and grandchildren.

Portrait of Elizabeth McWhoterlate in life.

The passing of Elizabeth Moss on June 21, 1871, sparked another relocation Landis family members. Her burial at Sims-Brier Cemetery in Old Bath, Franklin County, signaled the end of an era for her kin. Her descendants began to look toward their own futures, released from the caretaking ties that bind. Henry H. Landis left farming entirely and moved work as a merchant in Rushville, following in the footsteps of his sons.

It certainly made sense, as he was now in his 60s. Working the land becomes an insurmountable task unless you have a young and fit labor pool. Such was not the case for Henry Landis by the early 1870s. It became increasingly apparent that his sons were not going to work the family farm.

Joseph was a prime example. Although Jacob and Perry returned to help sell produce at the family vineyard in 1869, Joseph continued to work as a jeweler in nearby Liberty, Indiana. Keep in in mind that David Landis (their paternal grandfather) was laid to rest in Liberty in 1814. The family had deep ties to the area for several decades at this point.

On March 9, 1869, Joe placed an advertisement in the Liberty Herald announcing:

“Joseph Landis,

Watchmaker and Jeweler, Liberty, Ind. Special attention given to repairing watches, clocks, and jewelry of all kinds. Will be found at Sam Sterling’s Grocery Store. Work warranted for one year” (page 2).

Joseph eventually moved his business to the northeast corner of Main and Union Streets in Liberty. He became extremely well known and respected as a merchant in the area and remained there for almost two decades.

Advertisement placed in the “Liberty Herald” on March 19, 1869.

Advertisement placed in the “Liberty Herald” on May 20, 1875.

In 1869, Joseph Landis made frequent travels from Liberty to Connersville, visiting his grandmother, parents, and siblings. On Sept. 1, 1869, the Connersville Examiner announced, “Jo. Landis, Esq., formerly of your lovely city, is here enjoying life, repairs, watches, sells jewelry, and occasionally drives fine horses, and has setting by his side in his fine buggy as dear a creature as ever wore charms.

Love is a passion by no rule confined,

The great first mover of Joseph’s mind.

I believe Jo will marry, if the girl will, and

They’ll both be well mated in life.

She’ll have a good man for a husband

And he’ll have a charming wife.

Joe married a local Liberty girl two years later. He and Prudence Mae Hughes were united in marriage on Oct. 19, 1871. He remained in the area for quite some time, frequently making the news for the next two decades. For example, on Oct. 30, 1872, the Liberty Herald reported, “It was a nice job of white washing which Jos. Landis did the other day with his little brush” (page 3). On Sept. 23, 1874, the Liberty Herald reported, “Joe. Landis has been having his storeroom very much repaired and is now re-established in it, and has brought on a new stock of choice jewelry. Persons desiring to purchase jewelry are respectfully requested to give him a call” (page 3).

All the while, Joseph continued to gain business savvy and leadership skills. These became a great asset once he began working for his brother at Sosman & Landis. On July 22, 1875, the Liberty Herald reported, “The street drains have been cleaned in some places the past week, and this has added very much to the appearance and good drainage of the town. Joe. Landis was prime mover and worker in the improvement. His incentive may have been the anticipated arrival of his first child. In 1875, Joseph and Prudence celebrated the birth Kathryn E. Landis. This was the same year that he helped sell his father’s vineyard in Connersville.

On Sept. 30, 1875, the Liberty Herald published the following announcement:

“Farm for Sale.

The finest Fruit Farm in Fayette county, at a bargain. 3,000 Grape Vines; other fruit in proportion; Hedge Fence around the entire farm. Every foot tillable land, second bottom. Offered at a great bargain. Address JOE. LANDIS, Liberty, Ind.” (page 3).

Joe continued to gain ground as a successful merchant in Liberty. On Feb. 20, 1889, the Connersville Examiner reported, “Joe Landis, leading jeweler of Liberty, was over yesterday afternoon, making inquiries about our gymnasium. Some time ago Liberty boasted a gymnasium, but like many other places, it was allowed to go down, and now they want to dispose of the paraphernalia, hence Mr. Landis’ visit to our city” (page 3). It was not until the 1890s that he sold everything in Indiana and moved to Chicago to help his brother Perry. His move says a lot about the Landis family, as well as the scenic studio industry that he was investing in. When Joseph moved to Chicago, he worked at the firm as an electrical engineer, later establishing and managing the American Reflector & Lighting Co., established by the Landis brothers and Joe Sosman.

After his grandmother’s passing, Jacob Landis returned to Iowa and married Fannie E. Russell, a local Ottumwa girl. Their marriage was announced on Oct. 9, 1873, in the Ottumwa Semi-Weekly Courier (page 3):

“LANDIS-RUSSELL – At Samuel Harper’s residence, in this city, today, by the Rev. H. B. Knight. Mr. Jacob Landis, of Connersville, Ind., to Miss Fannie Russell, of Ottumwa.” He continued in the jewelry trade, eventually moving west and settling in California.

As for Perry…

Despite relocating to Connersville and working for his father in 1869, he also embarked on a new business endeavor with a gentleman named Samuel M. Zent (1834-1897). Zent was a tinsmith in nearby Roanoke who invented a machine that dehydrated fruits and vegetables. At the time, it was referred to as a Drying Stove or Dry house. The partnership of Landis & Zent marks the beginning of Perry’s career as a sales. As a salesman, Landis traveled throughout the region, selling both his father’s fruit and Zent’s Dryhouse. On May 26, 1869, The Indiana Weekly Herald of Huntington reported. “Messrs. Landis & Zent are this year engaged in the manufacture of a very useful contrivance for drying fruit and baking. It consists of a large sheet iron box, with a small heating stove at the bottom. The box, or upper part, is filled by sliding shelves so made that the heat from the stove can pass through the various shelves and fill the box. Arrangements are made so as to regulate the amount of heat. This Dryhouse has been thoroughly tested and is found to work admirably in drying fruit and as an outdoor bake oven. No farmer who has much fruit to preserve, should be without one” (page 3). Zent patented his invention in Indiana that fall. On Oct. 21, 1869, the Fort Wayne Daily Gazette published a list of U. S. patents issued to Citizens of Indiana for the week ending Oct. 12, 1869, including “No. 95,726 – Baking and Drying Stove; F. S. Reefy and S. M. Zent, Roanoke” (page 4). Perry continued to travel that fall and was listed in the gentleman’s list of unclaimed letters in the Terre Haute Weekly Express on Nov. 10, 1869, page 8.

Portrait of Samuel M. Zent.

Landis possibly met Zent during the Civil War. Zent was a Colonel in the Thirteenth Indiana Volunteers. Landis was with the 131^st Regiment, Indiana Infantry. I was surprised to find an article Zent published in an Indiana newspaper. On Oct. 16, 1861, The Indiana Herald reported, “We have one man who is worth his weight in pure gold. He has run more risks in scouting and done more hard service than any four men in the Company, and that too without murmur. He is always pleasant and cheerful, kind to the sick, and always performing some generous act for those in need. His name is Samuel Zent. He is just the man for the service, and deserves promotion” (page 2). Years later, Zent’s obituary announced, “Samuel Zent died very suddenly at Roanoke, Huntington county, a day or two ago. Previous to the war he was a resident of Warsaw, and engaged in the tinning business here When war broke out, he enlisted at an early day and finally became the colonel of the regiment known as the ‘Fighting Thirteenth,’ and remaining such until the close of the war. In the younger days of both, he was a warm and personal friend and chum of the editor of this paper. He was a brave and gallant solider and enjoyed a reputation as such throughout the Army of the Potomoc.” On. Nov. 27. 1869, the Fort Wayne Gazette announced in “News from Neighboring Towns, Roanoke” that “Sam Zent has gone on a pleasure trip to the west” (page 4). Many veterans, including the Landis brothers, ventured west in the years that followed the war.

Perry continued to sporadically work at his father’s vineyard, especially during the planting and harvest season. On September 21, 1870, The Connersville Examiner listed Perry Landis in the “Fruits” section as selling the “best and greatest variety of grapes.” That fall, Perry entered some of their produce in the Fayette County Fair. In the “Fruits” section of the article “Premiums Awarded at the Fayette County Fair,” Perry Landis was recognized for “best and greatest variety of grapes” (page 1).

The 1870 U. S. Federal Census listed that the Landis household in Connersville as including Henry Landis (63 yrs.), Catharine Landis (52 yrs.), Jacob Landis (28 yrs.), Perry Landis (21 yrs.), Edward Landis (17 yrs.), Francis Landis (14 yrs.), Charles Landis (11 yrs.), and Hetta Morrison (13 yrs.). Again, during this time Joseph Landis was living in Liberty, Union County, Indiana, and John Landis was living out west.

The family vineyard was soon known as H. H. Landis & Son, grape and small fruit growers. I have no idea who was the “son,” but there were five sons working the land. Local newspapers repeatedly carried Landis’ advertisements for grape vines sales. On September 21, 1870, the Connersville Times announced:

“Grape Vines! Grape Vines! – TenThousand Concord Grape Vines for sale at a reasonable rates.

H. H. Landis,

(P. O. Box 132) Connersville, Ind. (page 3).”

Advertisement placed by Henry H. Landis in the “Connersville Times” on Sept. 21, 1870.

The Connersville Examiner also carried the same advertisements throughout October 1870, including Oct. 12, 1870 (page 3).

On September 28, 1870, the Connersville Times reported, (page 3):

“Grapes! Grapes! Grapes!

Ten thousand pounds of choice Concord grapes for sale! Also, ten thousand vines of the above-named variety, for sale at reasonable rates. All offers left at the P. O. Box will receive prompt attention. Vines will be delivered either in Fall or Spring. Address all orders to

H. H. Landis

P. O. Box 103 Connersville, Ind.”

These advertisements continued until the following spring. On March 29, 1871, the Connersville Times announced:

“Grape Vines! Grape Vines!

All persons wanting grape vines of the leading varieties such as Concord, Prolifie, Delaware, Ives, Clinton, Iona, Martha, Salem, and others, should bear in mind that we have a splendid stock of the above and other varieties, which we are selling reasonable and warranting, also a fine lot of Raspberry plants, including Doolittle, Black Cap, Davison, Thornless and Mammoth cluster. Our day of delivering in Connersville is April 10^th. Remember the day and leave orders at Pratts’.

Two hundred bottles of Concord grape wine for sale.

H. H. Landis & Son grape and small fruit growers, Connersville, Ind.

P. O. Box 132.

Vineyard two miles south of Connersville” (page 3).

By the summer of 1871, however, Perry Landis was selling grapes under his own name. On Aug. 18, 1871, the New Castle Courier of New Castle, Indiana (page 5) listed:

“Perry Landis.

1^st Variety grapes, 2 00”

Perry Landis’ listing in the “New Castle Courier” on May 25, 1871.

Perry also purchased property in Indianapolis, Indiana, suggesting a definitive break from the family business. On June 21, 1871, the Indianapolis News reported the following real estate transfer: “Sarah A Hall and husband to Perry Landis, lot 38, 2d Brookside sub, $1250” (page 4). Despite the purchase, Perry soon left the region, heading west to Colorado. In short, he followed his older brother John.

To be continued…

Sosman & Landis: Shaping the Landscape of American Theatre. The Beginning.

Today’s post was to be about Frank Landis, Perry Landis’ younger brother. He was the first individual to represent Sosman & Landis beyond the two founders. However, you need a little backstory first to see where he fits into the picture, or nothing else about the studio history and staff will make sense.

On June 27, 1891, “The Dramatic Mirror” published an interview with Perry Landis of the Sosman & Landis Scene Painting Studio. The article described the first meeting between Joseph S. Sosman and Perry Landis: “Thirteen years ago Perry Landis was twenty-nine years of age, and in that happy condition known as ‘out of a job.’ With the exception of a few stray dollars in his pocket, Mr. Landis was practically on his uppers when he met Mr. Sosman in Ohio by accident. Mr. Sosman was a year older than himself, and the two young men became friendly and finally chummed it” (page 8).

This story is a little suspect, as it places the year of their meeting in 1878. That may have been the year they decided to open a scenic studio in Chicago, but it was not the year they met nor the first year they began working together. By 1876 the two were traveling companions and crisscrossing the country. In fact, twice that year they visited Landis’ former hometown in Fairfield, Iowa. On June 11, 1876, the “Fairfield Ledger” reported “Perry Landis and J. S. Sosman spent a few days in the city last week.”

The Landis family traveled quite a bit during the 1860s and 1870s. The patriarch, Henry H. Landis, hauled his family back and forth between Indiana and Iowa a few times. Both of Landis’ younger brothers were born in Iowa. In fact, Frank Landis was born in Fairfield, Iowa. By 1871 Perry Landis moved west to Colorado. He lived in Denver between 1872 and 1875, frequently returning to Fairfield to visit friends. He even submitted articles to the “Fairfield Ledger” about the history of Denver and nearby sites. It was likely on one of his return trips to Fairfield in 1875 that he met Sosman. In 1875, Sosman was working in Fairfield, painting scenery for Semon’s Opera House. It is important to understand that 1875 was only two years after Sosman began his career as scenic artist. His first theatre job was in the spring of 1873 when he assisted T. B. Harrison, an itinerant artist from Chicago. Harrison and Sosman painted scenery for the new Chandler’s Opera House in Macomb, Illinois. On April 17, 1873, the Macomb Journal reported that young “Joe” Sosman was assisting T. B. Harrison, of Chicago. Sosman was hired to mix paints and assist with various aspects of the painting process. Hehad some experience with basic painting, doing a little work as a sign painter. In 1873 Sosman was 28 years old, had served in the Union army during the Civil War, and moved from Chillicothe, Ohio, to Macomb, Illinois. He was unusually old to become a scenic art assistant. Most successful scenic artists began their careers by16 years old, if not earlier. That being said, there is no doubt that he was a gifted artist. Unfortunately, his lack of early training at an academy or in the theater would always put him at odds with artists who were trained at an early age. As I look at the success of Sosman & Landis, I cannot help but wonder if their rise to the top stemmed from the fact that scenic art remained a business for both men and not a passion.

On October 14, 1875, the “Fairfield Ledger”described Sosman’s work at Semon’s Opera House. The article reported, “The scenery was painted by Mr. J. S. Sosman, of McComb, Ills. [sic.], and bears evidence of the work of a master painter, and a man skilled in his profession.” After a lengthy description of Sosman’s scenic contributions, the article concluded “The painting is a great credit to the artist and all pronounce Mr. Sosman a painter of ability.”

Until the two established their first studio in Chicago, they were constantly on the road, with both men painting. Sosman always led the artistic end of the business and was listed as the senior partner for the firm. Landis also assisted with the art end in the beginning, but soon focused on sales. On February 6, 1878, the “WilmingtonJournal” published an article from the “LebabonGazette.” The article reported, “Messrs W. H. Rannells, Robert McMillan and Perry Landis were here [in Lebanon] from Wilmington, on Wednesday last, for the purpose of looking through the new hall. Mr. Landis is a scenic artist of rare accomplishments and is engaged at present in ornamenting the hall at Wilmington. These gentlemen expressed themselves well pleased with the grand outside, and exterior arrangments of our hall.” Rannells and McMillan were local Wilmington businessmen; Landis was the itinerant artist. This newspaper announcement suggests that Sosman & Landis had enough work at this time that they needed to work on separate locations.

Interestingly, after a decade with the firm, Landis’ role with was defined in an 1891 article for the “New York Dramatic Mirror.” The article reported:

“Landis did not know anything about the painting part, but he took charge of the business while Sosman wielded the brushes. Perhaps there were never two partners who worked so many years in such harmony.”

What remains curious is why public records continued to list Landis’ occupation as a scenic artist. Even his obituary credited Landis an artist. On Dec. 13, 1905, the “Newark Advocate” announced:

“WELL KNOWN ARTIST.

Perry Landis Junior Member of Chicago Firm, Dies After Three Years’ Illness.

Chicago, Dec. 13. – Perry Landis, well-known artist and clubman, died at his home in Evanston following an illness of more than three years’ duration. Mr. Landis, who was born in Clifty, Ind., 55 years ago, was a junior member of the firm of Sosman & Landis, and was well known among artists all over the United States.”

And yet, on Dec. 16, 1905, the “Evanston Press” announced, “Mr. Landis was not an artist, as has been stated elsewhere, but was a member of the firm Sosman & Landis, which owned and controlled a scenic studio on Clinton Street, Chicago.” This is odd, especially since the Evanston City Directory had repeatedly listed Landis’ occupation as a scenic artist. It made me wonder if this correction came from the Landis family, particularly the businessmen. It is possible that the role of “businessman” may have carried much more importance than that of “artist.”

Regardless of Landis’ artistic abilities, he eventually became responsible for company sales and other administrative tasks. He was the consummate salesman and networker that helped make the firm a success. His previous employment as a news agent worked well with the firm’s aggressive marketing campaign. Throughout the 1880s, Landis traveled from town to town, securing one contract after another. Sosman followed Landis, close on his heels with an assistant, completing each job. Just as Sosman needed help with painting, Landis needed help with sales. In fact, the first sales assistant was hired before the first scenic art assistant. Frank Landis was working for the firm as a salesman by 1879. Thomas G. Moses was hired to assist Sosman on various painting projects in 1880. Soon, there were two crews of salesmen and scenic artists; they continued to multiply. The staff increased throughout the remainder of the nineteenth-century.

In 1879, Sosman and Landis selected Chicago for their permanent offices and studio. They rented space at 277 and 279 South Clark Street by May, likely seeing the rental advertisement in the “Chicago Tribune” that month. Here was the ad in the rental section:

“TO RENT. The large store No. 279 South Clark-st. , northeast corner Van Buren; has been a Clothing Store for 15 years. Apply to Isaac Marks, 277 So. Clark.”

By May 17, 1879, Sosman & Landis published their first advertisement in the “Chicago Tribune” with the new address. Their listing advertised:

“Scenery for Halls – and elegant landscape drop curtain – only $30; a parlor scene, $18; wood scene, $18; street scene, $18; kitchen scene, $15; prison scene, $15, all new and first-class, suitable for small halls or amateur societies. Can be shipped to any part of the country. SOSMAN & LANDIS, 277 and 279 South Clark -st., Chicago.”

This advertisement was the beginning of an aggressive marketing plan. They immediately began painting and shipping scenery throughout the country. To make this work, they needed to rapidly market a product and get a salesman on the road. This is where Frank Landis comes into the picture. On August 16, 1879. The “Atchison Daily Patriot” reported, “Frank Landis, representing the firm of Sosman & Landis, is in Atchison [Kansas]” (page 4). Frank was covering the western region while his older brother focused on the easter region.

To be continued…