280 THE PORTRAIT GALLERY 



The showyard was never a factor in Linwood's success. Col. 

 Harris' prowess was recognized almost before he had opportunity 

 to advertise, and the competition for his products was keen from 

 the outset. So important was his service and so well known his 

 attainments, that in 1892 while selecting an importation in Britain, 

 a political convention at Wichita unanimously nominated him for 

 congressman-at-large for the state of Kansas. Against his better 

 judgment he responded to the call, serving two terms in the House 

 of Representatives. Following this, his Kansas supporters 

 showed their appreciation by sending him to the Senate, but thf 

 financial and political struggle proved too great for his later 

 years. Linwood was dispersed and the acreage sold at a time 

 of acute business depression, and at last he returned to his old 

 relationship with the stockmen of the nation. 



During his declining years he wielded the gavel at many a 

 sale, judged in the hottest contests of the ring, and assisted in 

 the management of shows, and state and national agricultural 

 conclaves. His last public service was that of Managing Director 

 of the International Livestock Exposition, and his last public 

 address to the Shorthorn Breeders of America at their meeting 

 of 1909. Within the walls of the Saddle and Sirloin Club, 

 his was the patriarchal voice that all heeded, and his were the 

 lips that counselled beginner and veteran alike in the steps of 

 Shorthorn progress. His death in 1910 left a vacancy in the 

 evening gatherings after show or sale that has never been filled. 



