Early Settlers – Daniel A. Bright and Emma F. Post – Larned Cemetery, Pawnee County, Kansas

Emma Post came to Pawnee County with Col. Wesley R. Adams and his wife, Matilda in 1873. The Adams’ were one of the early founders of Larned. Daniel Bright arrived shortly after that. The wedding of Daniel and Emma was the first wedding in Larned.

Daniel Alexander Bright was born in 1836 in Ohio. In 1861, he enlisted in Co. E 71st OH Infantry. Upon his discharge, his rank was Captain. The 1870 US Federal Census has Daniel living in Sedgwick County, Kansas, and his occupation is listed as a millwright.

Emma Frances Post was born in Illinois in 1848. Her parents were Abiathar and Emily Post. The 1870 Federal Census has Emma living with her parents in Johnson County, Kansas.

The Larned Eagle-Optic newspaper of 17 Nov 1899 reads “Miss Post, being the first young lady to arrive in Larned, immediately became the belle of the town, and on September 15, 1873, she made the first match of the season by marrying D.A. Bright . .” Three children were born to the couple.

Daniel was involved in the early growth of Larned as he was elected Probate Judge and served two terms. He was also elected to the county clerk’s office. Unfortunately, Daniel contracted consumption (tuberculosis) and passed away in 1879.

Emma was left a widow with three children under the age of five. In 1887, Emma married John Leasure. Daniel and Emma’s son, David, died in 1907 of consumption. Their daughters married and had families of their own. Emma passed away in 1926. They are all buried in Larned Cemetery.

Note: The military headstone for Lt. Bright reads: ADJT. 71st OH Infantry. An adjutant officer oversees checking soldier assignments, awards, and payroll.