Last time we took a quick trip by stagecoach to Parker via the Butterfield Stage. Most folks would agree it wasn't the most comfortable trip but we could hardly close this chapter of Parker's history without talking a bit more about the stage and the mile houses. Author Jack Stone shared the "10 Commandments of the Butterfield Stage" with me and I felt they were worthy of passing along to readers, so they are printed below.

Ten Commandments of the Butterfield Stage Route-1865

1. The best seat is the forward one, next to the driver. If you have tendencies toward stage sickness when riding backwards, you will get over it quicker in this seat and receive less jolts and jostlings
2. If the stage teams run away or are pursued by Indians, stay in the coach and take your chances. Don't jump out, for you will be either injured or scalped.
3. In cold weather abstain from liquor for you are subject to freezing quicker if under its influence than as though you were cold sober.
4. But if you are drinking from a bottle, pass it around. It is the only polite thing to do.
5. Don't smoke a strong cigar or pipe on the stage, especially when women or children are present. If chewing tobacco, spit to the leeward side.
6. Don't swear or smoke or lop over on neighbors when sleeping. Let others share the buffalo robes provided in cold weather.
7. Don't shoot firearms for pleasure while enroute as it scares the horses.
8. Don't discuss politics or religion. Don't point out sites where Indian attacks took place.
9. While at stations, don't lag at wash bins or privies. Don't grease hair with bear grease or buffalo tallow as travel is very dusty.
10. Don't imagine you are going on a picnic, for stage travel is inconvenient. Expect annoyances, discomforts, and hardships. Bear them with fortitude. Be friendly and helpful to other passengers and you will be a more pleasant one.

It is worthy to mention that in addition to a bath, food, and a soft place to sleep, the mile houses were the center of community activity. Parker's 20-Mile House welcomed neighbors from the area for celebrations at Christmas, New Year's, The Fourth of July, and Thanksgiving.

During the time Nelson Doud owned the establishment, Mrs. Doud and her five daughters spent three days preparing pies, cakes, and a wide variety of food for the feast. Local men and women turned out in their best finery to enjoy all night dancing. As they swirled around the floor to the Ma-Suvienne, waltz, Virginia reel, or Schottische, the dance master, Mr. Klein, kept everyone in step and was known to give a few dance lessons.

During the time James Sample Parker owned the 20-Mile house, the Post Office and General Store were also part of the residence. Outside in the barn, a blacksmith shoed horses, mules, and oxen for their travels down the trail. The abode and surrounding area housed the beginnings of the Parker community.

Next time: Meet some early Parker residents.