Report of H.L. Strickler, Commissioner to Audit Claims of Citizens of the Territory of Kansas, contained in the U.S. Congressional Serial Set of congressional and executive documents. Taylor Stephens operated a liquor and tobacco store in the town of Franklin, Douglas County. His claim (#157) stated that in September, 1856, a large number of men commanded by John W. Reid either drank, destroyed, or carried off the various items he listed. It is not clear whether Stephens operated a store or a tavern but his claim gives a detailed listing of various alcoholic beverages. Each claimant had to submit an itemized list and have two witnesses attest to the losses claimed. Even though many of these claims were approved for payment, no funds were ever appropriated or distributed.