lilil ii ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^H ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^B - 1 i filass Book . COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT /^-^ ASHLAND LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFORD, HOPKINTON, f AND VICINITY; EMBRACING ALSO ASHLAND, HOLLISTON and HOPEDALE. ILIvUSTRATKD. BOSTON : MERCANTILE PUBLISHING COMPANY, No. 258 Purchase Street. 1590 X ^'\^ ^.^ PRKFACB. In this historical and statistical review of the commercial and manufactur- ing interests of this section, it has been our purpose in as thorough a manner as was possible to justly describe those enterprises which have contributed so largely during the last half century to the material advancement of these towns. History plainly shows that many large cities have owned their prosperity and growth chiefly to advantages of situation, great influx of foreign people, and similar causes. Of the towns in this section it is the genius and efforts of their people that have brought the present prosperity. This fact that the history of these towns has practically been made almost entirely by her business men, lends particular significance to the close juxtaposition in which the account of her general and business interests are here placed. MERCANTILE PUBLISHING CO. COPYMGilT. MERCANTILE 'PUBLISHING CO. 1890. (SEE CONTENTS ON LAST PAGE.^ HISTORICAL SKKTCH OF MIIvFORD. The territory comprised within the limits of the town of Milford originally belonged to a clan of the Nipmuck tribe of Indians, and five-sixths of it were included in the eight miles square purchase consummated April 22, 1662 ; this tract being known as Quinshipaug Plantation, afterward Mendon. A family of the same clan sold the other sixth to a committee of Mendon people, February 19, 1691, and the land thus acquired has always been known as the "North Purchase." The proprietors of Mendon owned the entire tract and laid it out from time to time, as circumstances required ; the settlement of it beginning in the south-westerly corner in 1670, and advancing by very gradual degrees up to 1700, when more rapid progress commenced and steadily continued, so that in 1741 the settlers had become sufficiently numerous and enterprising to secure an act of incorporation, dividing their tract off as a separate precinct, known as "the Second," or the " Easterly precinct of Mendon." The necessary act was obtained December 23, 1741, and contained the proviso that a meeting-house must be built and an orthodox minister provided within two years of that date. The building of the meeting-house was immediately begun, but although it measured only 40 x35 feet, the structure was not finished, and the Rev. Amariah Frost ordained as minister until within two days of the extreme limit ; the con- ditions of incorporation being fulfilled December 21, 1743. About 37 years afterward this precinct was incorporated as the town of Milford, but only after a long and earnest struggle; the residents of the parent town raising the objections usual in such cases, and stoutly resisting the claims of the "Mill River people" to separate corporate existence. An amicable agreement was finally arrived at May 3, 1779 ; and April 11th of the following year the town was incorporated, being formally organized May 1, 1780. At that time the population was just 760, and the meeting-house was the only public building. The Revolutionary War, then drawing to a close, had severely tested the resources of the towns-people ; money worthy of the name was very scarce, and 4 HISTORICAL SKETCH OF MILFOBD. the poverty of Milford's residents was real and pressing, but they had pluck, faith and a boundless capacity for hard work, and although the town had a '' hard row to hoe" for some years, it proved itself equal to the emergency, and with true Yankee independence asked help or favors from no one. Milford is located in the south-east corner of Worcester County and is bounded on the north by Hopkinton ; on the east by Holliston, Med way and Bellingham ; on the west by Upton and on the south-west by Mendon ; its other boundaries being Main Street Looking North from P. O. Middlesex and Norfolk Counties. It has an area of 19 square miles and ten acres; a length of six miles and an average breadth of about 3 e miles. It is nearly equi-distant from Boston and Providence, being 30 miles from the former and 25 miles from the latter city, and its centre is 18 miles south-east from Wor- cester. The average altitude is a trifle less than 473 feet; the maximum being 637 feet 9 inches, and the minimum 308 feet. There are two small rivers in town, one of which, '^ the Serpentine Charles," rises in a large swamp near the Hopkinton line, at a point 432 feet above the sea level. It falls 124 feet in its passage through the town, but only affords two or three mill- sites within the limits of Milford. The other stream — ''Mill River," as the white men have always called it — is the outlet of North Pond, or Maspenock Pond, to use the Indian title, and falls 137 feet 9 inches before it escapes from Milford's bounda- ries ; affording eleven mill-sites and flowing southerly into the Blackstone Eiver at Woonsocket, E. I. One important effect of these two rivers is to divide the town into three sections, of which by far the most important is that between the Mill and the Charles ; this being six miles in length and from one to two HISTORICAL SKETCH OF MILFORD. 5 miles in width. It contains a great deal of arable land, but is also noteworthy for some very pronounced eminences from which beautiful and extensive views are obtainable. Tunnel Hill is 616 feet above the sea ; Silver Hill about 587 feet, and Magomiscock, which happily still bears its aboriginal name, 637 feet 9 inches. Properly speaking, this is a range of highlands rather than a hill, for it is some two miles in length and descends gradually on all sides, its Main Street Looking South from P. O. apparent height being thereby greatly diminished. The view from the summit on a clear day comprises the Blue Hills of Milton, Wachusett, Monadnock and other famous heights, and is one of the most picturesque of the kind which the state affords. The Westerly section has a length of four miles and a width of 150 rods, a small part of it being good farming laud, but most of it being swampy, rocky or woody. The highest point is North Hill, 572 feet ; and the highest point of the third and last section — that lying east of the Charles — is a famous landmark, Bear Hill, 532 feet above the sea. The "Rocky Woods," "Korth Cedar Swamp" and " Great Meadow " are prominent portions of this section, which, as may be imagined, is not especially adapted to agriculture, although the eastern frontier bounds a range of good farms, which are thoroughly tilled and reasonably productive. Milford has no natural wealth of any kind, with the exception of the exten- sive deposits of granite found in some portions of the town. This stone is now 6 HI8T0BICAL SKETCH OF MILFOBD. quite largely quarried, and "Milford granite" has a high and recognized position in the market. Up to the year 1845 the growth of Mil ford was slow and uncertain, but the branch railroad to South Framingham then stimulated progress, and the development since that date has been continuous and gratify- ing. It is interesting to know that shoe manufacturing was begun here as early as 1795, although operations were conducted on a very small scale for more than a quarter of a century ; the largest shoe factory in town in 1825 being two storiee in height and 32x20 feet in dimensions. Although Milford was not an incorpo- rated town when the Ee volution broke out, it is but just that passing referencs Music Hall Block and Vicinity. should be made to the part her prospective citizens took in that struggle, for, as residents of Mendon, they manned two of the companies the town put into the field. The most famous of these men was Alexander Scammell, who was a favorite of General Washington, and was made adjutant general of the United States armies. He graduated from Harvard in 1769, and was field officer at the siege of Yorktown in 1780, where he was surprised and captured by the enemy's cavalry, and was mortally wounded by a cowardly Hessian after he had yielded himself as prisoner. Milford sent a company to Boston during the war of 1812, but it only remained sixty days, there being no occasion to make use of its services. The town's action in the late Eebellion was worthy of her past record, for she furnished 1202 men — 195 more than the law required. The sum of $62,600 was appropriated for war purposes, and $14,832 were raised by private subscription. The amount paid for State aid (afterward refunded) was $96,135.62. mSTORICAL SKETCH OF MILFORD. Unlike many other New England communities, Milford has never made any great pretensions as regards its educational facilities, but gratifying progress has been made in this line of late years, and it is believed that the present accommodations will compare favorably with those of other towns of no greater population. The banking facilities of the town are excellent, and are well worthy of consideration when calling attention to the advantages Milford offers for the successful prosecution of manufacturing and mercantile enterprises. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFORD. Claflin & Thayer, Manufacturers of Men's, Boys' and Youth's Boots and Shoes, Milford, Mass. — The enterprise carried on under the firm name of Claflin & Thayer is such a truly representative one as to entitle it to the most prominent mention possible, for it has been conducted for fully 40 years and has done much to make the name of Milford widely and favorably known in manufacturing and trade circles. The existing firm name was adopted in 1869 and is retained in spite of the fact that Mr. Thayer is dead, Mr. Claflin being now sole proprietor. He was born in this town and is universally known here, now being connected with the Board of Selectmen. The firm are very largely engaged in the manufacture of men's, boys' and youth's boots and shooes, the bulk of their product being in heavy styles. They utilize a spacious and finely-equipped factory and operate a costly and efficient plant of improved machinery, power being afforded by a 30 horse engine. Employment is given to. about 200 hands, and the capacity of the works is sometimes severely taxed to keep up with the orders received as the products of this concern are so generally popular that they find a ready and dependable market. Selected stock is used, careful supervision exercised over each of the many processes incidental to the work and the most careful and severe ex- amination will only result in proving that the •exceptional popularity we have noted is thor- oughly well-deserved. Jones & Wilkinson, Manufacturers of Men's and Boys' Straw Goods, Central Street* Milford, Mass. — The manufacture of straw goods ranks high among those special indus- tries for which Massachusetts is famous, and the enterprise conducted by Messrs. Jones & Wilkinson has done much to advance the in- terests of Milford and vicinity. It was inaugur- ated by Messrs. E. M. Jones & Son, the pres- ent firm being formed in 1883, and the business was for years carried on at No. 10 Fayette Street, a removal being made to the corner of Main and Walnut Streets, then to the present location on Central Street, in 1888. Here a very commodious factory is occupied, the premises bemg four stories in height and 40 x 100 feet in dimensions. A fifty horse engine is utilized, and the works are equipped with the very lat- est improved machinery in every department, the firm manufacturing men's and boys' straw goods in almost endless variety. They employ one hundred assistants during the season, and do an immense and increasing business, selling to jobbers throughout the country. Their products are well-known to the trade, and are conceded to be surpassed by none in their own special line. The firm is constituted of Messrs. A. W. Jones and T. P. Wilkinson, the former being a native of Framingham and the latter of Milford. Both these gentlemen are widely and favorably known in trade circles, and show by their methods that they propose to build up their business in every legitimate way. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. Milford Pink Granite Co., Milford, Mass.— Of the building materials in common use,- as for instance wood, brick, freestone, marble and granite, each has its special advan- tages and is entirely free from drawbacks of any kind, but one of the most serious hindran- ces to the general use of granite— its compar tively first high cost, has been overcome lo a great extent by the introduction of new meth- ods and the use of new appliances for its quar- rying and working. In the granite business, as in about every other at the present day, it is necessary to have a large capital in order to carry on operations to the best advantage, and a fine example of how quickly ample resources and enterprising methods will develop an ex- tensive and permanent trade is that afforded by the success which has attended the under- taking carried on by the Milford Pink Granite Company since operations were begun in 188S. This company handle a very superior quality of building stone, and the magnitude of the demand for it is indicated by the fact that em- ployment is given to more than 200 men. The unsurpassett facilities at hand enable the heav- iest orders to be filled at short notice, and the lowest market rates to be quoted at all times. Mr. I. F. Woodbury of the well known firm of Woodbury & Leighton, builders of Boston, is president and the position of superintendent and treasurer is filled by Mr. A. W. Eames. The new Boston Public Library building, Cop- ley square, is being built of stone cut and fur- nished by this company, also the Elliot church at Newton, Mass., one of the finest churches in that vicinity was built of stone from this quarry. Tracks from the B. & A. E. E. pen- etrate the quarry and cutting sheds, aflording superior advantages to the company. Milford National Bank, Milford, Mass.— That the Milford National Bank has exerted a most powerful influence on the industrial and commercial development of this section of the state is a self-evident fact, but just how power- ful this influence has been, aad just how much farther advanced this comnmnity is than it would have been had not this institution ever been organized, are questions which it is sim- ply impossible to answer with any accuracy, and which indeed are not of any great import- ance, the vital question being as to the general effect of the operations of the bank, and not as to the precise amount of benefit derived from them. This institution was incorporated as a State Bank in 1848, and was carried on success- fully under that form of charter for about 17 years, being re-organized under the national banking laws in 1865. Many of our readers must be familiar with the bank's record since that date, and we need not refer to it in detail or indeed to mention it, further than to say that it reflects the highest credit on the officers past and present, and will compare favorably with that of any institution with which we are acquainted occupying a similar field of useful- ness. The Milford National Bank has a capital of a quarter of a million, and is most excellent- ly equipped to do a general banking business, including the reception of deposits, the collec- tion of drafts and the discounting of approved Dorchester ; Milford Mutual, of Milford. commercial paper. The present board of oflS- cers is made up of business men so prominent as to require no introduction to Massachusetts' readers, while a perusal of the following list of names will show how closely they are identi- fied with the interests of Milford and vicinity t President, Charles F. Claflin ; Cashier, Augus- tus Wheeler ; Directors, Charles F. Claflin, of Milford, Amariah A. Taft, of Milford, Wm. F. Draper, of Hopedale. John P. Daniels, of Mil- ford, T. G. Kent, of Worcester, Ethan C. Claf- lin, of Milford, Chas. H. Colburn, of Hopedale, L. H. Cook, of Milford. George G. Parker, Fire Insurance, Wash- ington Block, Milford. — There are very many ins The assets of the companies represented aggregate more than $70,000,000, and the list i» as strong a one as could easily be made out, for it includes the names of the leading stock and mutual companies. ^tna, of Hartford ; North British and Mer- cantile; Queens, of London; Hartford, of Hartford; Connecticut of Hartford; Orient,, of Hartford ; American of Philadelphia ; Phoe- nix Assurance Co., of England; Insurance Co. of North America; Fire Association, of Phila- delphia; Phenix, of Brooklyn; Westchester, of New York; Niagara, of New York; New Hampshire, of Manchester; First National, of Worcester ; Lancashire, of England ; Commer- cial Union, of England ; Springfield Fire and Marine; Providence Washington ; Traders, of Chicago; Anglo-Nevada, of San Francisco; Sun Fire Oflice, of London ; Phcenix, of Hart- ford; Atlantic Fire and Marine. Mutual Com- panies. — Traders' «fe Mechanics', of Lowell ;^ Merchants' & Farmers' of Worcester ; Quincy Mutual, of Quincy; Dorchester Mutual, of LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFORD. James Powers, First-tlass Livery, Hack and Boarding Stable ; Stable, head of Central Street, Milford, Mass. — Every commercial traveler has sometimes been put to great in- convenience by not being able to hire a suit- able team at a fair price, and it not infrequently happens that the proportion of Livery Stables knowing that the customer must have a team, will charge in some instances about double their usual rates. Now, such a policy is bad for all parties concerned. It is bad for the travelling man, for of course it adds to his expenses, bad for the merchants whom he supplies, for they have to "pay the freight in the long run " and bad for the stable keeper for the word will be passed and he will be avoided by the "frater- nity" as much as possible in the future. Mr. James Powers who carries on one of the most popular Hack. Livery and Boarding Stables to be found in Milford, does not believe in any such short-sighted policy as we have referred too, on the contrary he makes specially low rates for Commercial Travelers, and accommo- dates them to the best of his ability at all times. The "best of his ability" is pretty good too, for he has some fine teams in his stables, and the man who can't sell a good bill of goods when driving about the country in one of his turn- outs, ought to go peddling apples or engage in some equally intelligent occupation. Mr. Powers is a native of Milford, and has conduct- ed his present enterprise since 1882, having at that date succeeded Mr. S. Cook, this stable be- ing located at the head of Central Street, the principal entrance being from Main Street. Mr. Powers is also proprietor of tlie stables connected with and in the rear of Hotel Wil- lian this being the larger and more important of the two, it being his principal hack stable and includes 28 horses while the other stable contains a smaller number. Both stables afford the best of accommodations to boarders and special attention is paid to transcient teams. Easy riding and stylish carriages are to be had here, as well as horses that have not forgotten how to trot, reasonable prices rule, and if you want a team for business or for pleasure here is the place to get it. Geo. F. Birch, Provision Dealer, 33 Ex- change Street, Milford, Mass.— It is not diffi- cult to obtain a correct idea of the estimation in which the establishment carried on by Mr. Geo. F. Birch at No. 33 Exchange Street, is held by its patrons and by the public in gen- eral, for few, if any enterprise of the kind lo- cated in Milford, are better known or more highly spoken of. Mr. Birch is a native of this town and has held the office of overseer of the poor, for seven consecutive years. He has been identified with his present business for six- teen years, and has been lo- cated at his present address since 1881, so that there ha8 certainly been ample oppor- tunity for him to make the public familiar with his methods. A store 25x40 feet in dimensions are occupied, and employment is given to three efficient assistants. The stock on hand bears evidence of skillful selection, and comprises Meats, Fruits, Vegetables and Provisions in almost endless variety. Mr. Birch is in a position to obtain his supplies on as advantageous terms as any dealer in town, and as he is satisfied with small profits, it fol- lows that his prices will bear the severest com- parison with those quoted by other houses. We need hardly say that no misrepresentations are allowed in this establishment for no store could hold the reputation that this one does unless it were conducted on strictly honor- able principals. D. B. Rockwood, Manufacturer of and Dealer in Carriages of all kinds, 210 Main Street, Milford, Mass.— Comparatively few of the business enterprises now carried on in Mil- ford date back a quarter of a century, still fewer have been conducted for 50 years, and the number of those which can claim over three-quarters of a century of existence is so small that an undertaking like that carried on by Mr. D. B. Rockwood is worthy of the most prominent mention in our power to give, for this enterprise was inaugurated fully 80 years ago, having been started by Mr. Peter Eock- wood in 1809. In 1836 the firm-name became Peter Rockwood & Son, and four years later the son assumed sole control, which he has since retained. Mr. Rockwood is a native of Milford, and has long ranked among the representative business men of that thriving town. He is a manufacturer of and dealer in carriages of ev- ery description, and occupies very completely equipped premises at No. 220 Main street. The old shop is a Ih story structure of the dimen- sions of 22 X 30 feet, and is connected with the new shop, which is two stories in height and 28 X 40 feet in size. Mr. Rockwood has two- competent and efficient assistants in the per- sons of his two sons and probable successors- Mr. Henry E. and Frank J. Rockwood. Particu- lar attention is paid to carriage repairing and painting in all their branches. Mr. RockwoodI is in a position to fill orders at short notice and at prices as low as is consistent with the at- tainment of results which will maintain the enviable reputation his establishment has so long held. There are many so-called " cheap " carriages in the market, but only comparative- ly few really good ones, and those who wish a strictly first-class vehicle at a fair price will best serve their own interests by coming here. 10 LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFORD. Eing Bros., Clothiers, Hatters, Furnishers, Fine Clothing a Specialty. Music Hall Block, Milford, Mass. — The cost of ready-made cloth- ing has been steadily diminishing of late years, and has now reached so low a figure that there is no reason why every body should not dress neatly and even handsomely. To be sure there are some dealers who have apparently not yet learned of the reduction noted and who do not give their customers as much as they should have for their money, but the observant purchaser will have but little trouble in avoid- ing such establishments and will patronize those "up to the times "in every respect. Among these, none hold a higher position than that carried on by King Brothers in Music Hall Block. These gentlemen have conducted their present undertaking since 1886. The firm is made up of Mr. H. M. & P. E. King, both of whom are natives of Milford, and have a large circle of friends in this vicinity. They have made their store located in Milford and also their branch store at Uxbridge celebrated among those appreciative of fashionable and perfect-fitting clothing, and quote prices which make it worth the while of every intending purchaser of anything in their line to give them a call, Their premises located in Milford cover an area of 26 by 90 feet in dimensions and the Uxbridge branch 15x30 feet, both con- taining a very desirable stock of fine clothing, hats, and gentlemen's furnishings, also trunks, bags, etc. Competent assistants are employed, prompt and polite attention shown to all. Milford Dye House and Steam Scour- ing Establishment, Pond street. Nearly Opposite Milford Gas Works. D. H. Ritinger, Proprietor, Milford, Mass. — It is very natural to consider a garment of any kind spoiled when it has become badly faded or soiled, but expe- rience and skill can do a good deal in the way of renovating faded and soiled fabrics and in most instances can make them just as good as new, while sometimes the color will be made faster than it originally was. No doubt the Milford Dye House and Steam Scouring Estab- lishment is one of the most perfectly equipped establishments of the kind in the state and as the proprietor, Mr. D. H. Kitinger, is thor- oughly familiar with the business in every detail, it is not all surprising that he should be in a position to attain results equal to the best, thus enabling him to guarantee satisfac- tion to the most fastidious customers. Mr. Eitinger was born in Switzerland, and began business in New York State in 1867, removing to Milford two years later. He has therefore been here a score of years, and has built up a business and established a reputation for in- tegrity and skill of which he may well be proud. The factory is located on Pond street, nearly opposite the Milford Gas Works, and is sufficiently spacious to contain all necessary apparatus and facilities to enable orders to be promptly filled. Cotton, silk and woolen dresses and shawls are dyed, and coats, pants and vests will be dyed or cleansed in a superior manner. Mr. Eitinger can make a faded and soiled garment look like new if anybody can, and our readers may save money by making use of the facilities he offers. L. E. Belknap, Manufacturer of Light and Heavy Wagons of High Grade Only ; Special Attention Given to Eepairing ; All Work War- ranted to give Satisfaction ; Memorial Square, Cor. School and Spruce Streets, Milford, Mass. — A manufacturer, who confines himself to the production of high grade articles, should be in a position to turn out work equal to the best, for goods, which are claimed to be of the first quality, are, of course, subjected to the most severe comparisons that can be made. Well, Mr. L. E. Belknap can safely challenge com- parison of his productions with those of other makers, for he makes a specialty of the manu- facture of light and heavy wagons of high grade, and his vehicles are strictly first-class in every respect. Mr. Belknap was born in Milford, and is very widely known in this vicinity. The premises utilized by him are of the dimensions of 30 x 50 feet, exclusive of storage sheds, and are fitted up with the latest improved facilities for wagon manufacturing and repairing, particular attention being given to the latter work, and no pains being spared to combine neatness and durability in the fill- ing of every order. Employment is afforded to two competent assistants, and commissions will be executed at very short notice. Mr. Bel- knap always has a stock of wagons on hand, and those wishing to purchase a thoroughly de- pendable vehicle at a fair price, would do well to call at the corner of School and Spruce Streets, and see what he has to offer. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFORD. 11 P. L. Holmes & Co., Commissioa Mer- ■Chants in Chicago Dressed Beef, Kefrigerator Building, near Providence and Worcester Freigiit Depot, Milford, Mass. — Tiiis is a rapid age, and the public have become accustomed to seeing great enterprises built up in a compara- tively short time, but the growth of the trade in "Chicago Dressed Beef" has been truly phenomenal, even in these days of push and energy. While freely conceding that the supe- rior merits of the products would have won for it a cordial reception here in the East, even had its sale been placed in comparatively incompe- tent hands, we may still admire the liberality and business tact of those who have introduced it to New England consumers, and caused it to be handled by every retailer of any account. A very large amount of Chicago Dressed Beef is required to supply the demand in Milford and vicinity, and the firm of F. L. Holmes & Co. handle it by the car-load, and place them- selves in a position to fill all orders at the shortest possible notice. They do an exclusive- ly wholesale business, and occupy the Refrig- erator Building, near the Providence & Wor- cester Freight Depot. This concern is consti- tuted of Messrs. F. L. Holmes, R. E. Holmes and E. C. Swift, the first-named gentleman be- ing resident in Holyoke, the second in AVorces- ter, and the third in Boston. Mr. George E. Houghton has been manager of the Milford establishment since May, 1888, and is deserved- ly popular among the firm's patrons, for he keeps the service at a high standard of efii- ciency, and spares no pains to ensure prompt and careful attention to every order. M. J. Reynolds, Dealer in Music, Station- ery, Toys, Periodicals, and Fancy Articles, Headquarters for Base Ball Goods, Fruit aud Confectionery, Cigars and Tobacco, 16G Main Street, Milford, Mass. — As a representative of an important branch of industry, the house of M. J. Reynolds may be appropriately mentioned as one of the leading firms in Milford engaged in the business of music, stationery and peri- odical dealer. This house was established a- bout 1880 by D. H. Bates, who was succeeded it 1888 by the present proprietor, Mr. M. J. Reynolds, and through his energy and ability displayed in its management, has secured a marked success. The premises occupied are located at No. 1G6 Main street, and are well stocked with a fine assortment of music, sta- tionery, toys, periodicals and fancy articles, together with fruit, confectionery and all the leading brands of cigars and tobacco. This es- tablishment is also headquarters for base ball goods, and the retail trade dooe in the above named goods extends throughout Milford and vicinity. Mr. Reynolds is a native of Milford, and is well known throughout the community, and is collector of taxes. He combines a thor- ough practical knowledge of all branches of his business with liberality and abilitj^ and the fa- cilities enjoyed by him for the prompt atten- tion to customers, and the execution of all orders, are not surpassed by those of any com- petitive concern in Milford. J. L. Buxton, Machinist, and Manufactu- rer of Boot and Shoe Machinery, Peg Cutters, Welt Awls and Watch Case Springs a Special- ty. Milford, Mass. — The extent to which the manufacture of boots and shoes has been carried in Massachusetts, has resulted in the building up of various lines of business tribu- tary to this great industry, and among these the production of boot and shoe machinery must be given very prominent mention. Even the merest school boy knows that great im- provements have been made of late years in this class of machinery, and indeed it has now reached such a degree of perfection that only the most eflicient varieties of it can be dis- posed of, manufacturers appreciating the fact that they cannot afford to use anything but the best in these days of keen competition. Mr. J. L. Buxton has manufactured boot and shoe machinery for a number of years and is familiar with the points to be considered in the construction of such appliances. He is careful to use selected material only, and as he employs skilled assistants and maintains a well-appointed shop, it is not surprising that his productions should rank with the best in the market. A specialty is made of peg cut- ters, welt awls and seam sets. Mr. Buxton also manufactures watch case springs, of which he makes over 180 different kinds and sizes for American and Swiss watches, and he has recently added to his business the manu- facture of the new pattern wrench called the Benson Pipe Wrench. For easy and quick adjustment to diff"erent sized pipe, easily free- ing from the pipe, sure grip, strength and durability it stands equal if not superior to the best. The Benson wrench is made of cast steel, and is a first-class tool at a low price. All orders will be promptly attended to at prices as low as the lowest for first-class arti- cles. A general machine business is also done, repairing being neatly aud skillfully attended to at short notice. James S. Sherman, Granite Building Stone, Post Office Address, Milford, Mass.— Massachusetts granite has long been known as one of the most valuable building stones yet discovered, and indeed it would be difficult to imagine a stone combining a greater number of good qualities. Of course there is no build- ing material but what excels in some one re- spect, but when we come to sum up and com- pare the characteristics of those in common use, as for instance wood, iron, brick, stone, etc., it must be confessed that for some pur- poses stone leads them all and a good quality of granite leads all stones. The granite quar- ry controlled by Mr. James S. Sherman is a valuable piece of property, for the product is of uniform and superior quality and excites favorable comment whenever seen. The stone has certain characteristics which render it val- uable for building purposes, and architects and others interested would do well to secure sam- ples of it as they will often find use for such a grade of granite when carrying on their busi- nes". Mr. Sherman's post office address is Mil- ford, Mass., and all communications are as- sured prompt and careful attention. 12 LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. Goucher's Hotel, 47 Central street, Mil- ford, Mass. — A man's comfort and enjoyment when in a strange eitj' or town depends so much upon the character of the hotel he stops at, that very few men can form a favorable idea of the most enterprising and agreeable community when they are obliged to occupy uncomfortable rooms and eat unpalatable meals. Therefore it will be seen that the rep- utation a place bears outside its borders is apt to be materially influenced by the character of its hotel accommodations, and under these circumstances every public spirited person is interested in having visitors put up at houses that are managed skillfully and liberally, but even the finest accommodations may not be satisfactory if the terms of the house are so high as to be beyond the means of the average traveler, and the popularity of Goucher's hotel located at No. 47 Central street is not therefore due alone to the pains taken to secure the welfare of guests, but also to the moderate prices. The hotel of which Mr. Alfred Gouch- er is the proprietor and located at the above named address is conducted on the European plan and has been newly furnished and fitted up in an elaborate as well as convenient man- ner possessing all the modern conveniences and parties from out of town will find this a nice place to stop. The restaurant will be well sup- plied with all the products of the season, and the system in force is so perfect that a large number of people can be accommodated witli- out the least confusion or delay. The estab- lishment under consideration has been under the management of Mr. Goucher since 1872. He is assiduous in promoting the comfort of his guests, and has made his hotel one of the most popular in Milford. W. H. Pyne, Dealer in Boots, Shoes and Rubbers, 124 Main Street, Milford, Mass.— Mr. W. H. Pyne is a native of Milford and we need hardly say, is very generally known about town. Since 1888 he has carried on a boot and shoe store at No. 124 Main street and has built up an extensive business, first by carrying a very full and carefully selected stock, and sec- ond by quoting prices that are satisfactory to the most economically inclined. The premises utilized measure 18x.50 feet, and excellent pro- vision is made therein for the comfort and con- venience of customers who may depend upon prompt and polite attention and who will be given every opportunity to make an intelhgent and satisfactory choice, for Mr. Pyne never misrepresents goods himself or permits those in his employ to do so. Every description of fine footwear is kept on hand, and ladies, gen- tlemen, misses, youths and children will all find their wants provided for, the assortment of sizes and styles being very complete, and the goods offered being obtained from the most reliable sources. It must be a very peculiarly shaped foot that Mr. Pyne cannot fit, and those who have experienced diflSculty in finding foot- wear that was at once shapely, perfect-fitting, easy and durable, would do well to give this establishment a call and see what he can do for them. S. A. Brock, (Successor to J. W. Harris.) Manufacturer and Dealer in Builders' Hard- ware, Stoves, Furnaces, Crockery, Glass, Sil- ver Plated Ware, Farming Tools, etc., 160 Main Street, Milford, Mass. — Mr. S. A. Brock carries a fine stock of builders' hardware, stoves, furnaces, etc., and also deals extensive- ly in crockery, glass and silver-plated ware as well as in farming tools and similar commodi- ties. He is a native of Bethel, Maine, and has carried on his present enterprise since 1887, hav- ing then succeeded Mr. J. W. Harris. The premises occupied are located at No. 160 Main street, and comprise one floor and a basement measuring 20 x 80 feet, and a two-stojy shop in the rear. Employment is given to two compe- tent assistants, and orders for roofing, plumb- ing or general jobbing are assured immediate and painstaking attention. Mr. Brock manu- factures tinware quite extensively, and is pre- pared to do tinsmithing in first-class style and at low rates. He handles the leading makes of stoves and furnaces, and those in need of a good cooking or heating stove may save time, trouble and money perhaps by giving him a call, as he recommends no stove that he is not confident will give the best of satisfaction, and quotes prices as low as the lowest, quality con- sidered. Information will cheerfully be given on application, and callers are sure of receiving prompt and polite attention under all circum- stances. The latest novelties in' crockery, glass and plated-ware are at hand to choose from, and every article in stock is guaranteed to prove precisely as represented in every re- spect. A. S Crofoot, Tin and Sheet Iron Worker, Stove, Furnace, and Pump Work, and Jobbing promptly attended to. School street, Milford. — There are more things being made out of tin, and sheet iron every year and as many of these things are used in every household, it is a matter of general interest to know where such can be best obtained or repaired, when repairs are necessary. There is one establish- ment at least with which we are familiar, and which we cheerfully recommend to our read- ers, and that is the one conducted b)^ Mr. A. S. Crofoot, on School street. This gentleman founded the above establishment in 1883, and has been identified with this line of work for over twenty years. An extensive business has been built up. Tin and sheet iron work of all kinds is done here, and the work is always reliable and the prices ai'e low enough to suit the most economical. Stove, furnace and pump work and general jobbing of all kinds in this line is given especially prompt and careful attention and satisfaction is guaranteed for the best materials are used and the work is care- fully and thoroughly done. Mr. Crofoot is a native of Douglas, Mass., and takes personal pride in seeing that the high reputation now enjoyed by his establishment is not injured by hasty or careless work, and as he has had many years of experience in all branches of his busi- ness, he is thoroughly able to execute all or- ders entrusted to his care in a most satisfactory and workmanlike manner. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFORD. 13 Mrs. H. S. Swan, Dealer ia Millinery and Fancy Goods, Mechanics Block, Mllford, Mass. — Enterprise and sagacity in the selection of goods and good taste, liberality and accom- modations in the arrangement and sale of them are enough to ensure success of any business undertaking, and some of those loud- mouthed philosophers who are so fond of dis- claiming as to the unfitness of women for mer- cantile pursuits, would do well to stop talk- ing long enough to investigate for themselves such cases of success in this line as we have become conversant with in the preparation of this book. One of the most pronounced of them is the one to which we propose to allude in this article, and of itself is enough to dem- monstrate that no monopoly of the qualities which bring about prosperity in business, is held by man. Mrs. H. 8. Swan opened the establishment she has since conducted with strict honesty and profit to her many patrons in Milford in 1873, so that a sufficient time has since elapsed to enable an intelligent judg- ment to be formed as to the result attained. She is engaged in the retailing of millinery and fancy goods, feathers, fiowers, etc., and has built up a patronage which could never have reached its present proportions had not genuine and continuous inducements been offered to the public. Four capable assistants are constantly employed and the store occu- pied is located in Mechanics block, and is 30x 70 feet in dimensions, and such arrangements are in force as to permit of every customer receiving prompt and careful attention. Mrs. Swan quotes very low prices on the articles handled, and depends more upon the extensive sales than upon large profits for the reward of her exertions. G. B. Knight, Retail Dealer in Meats and Provisions, No. 171 Main Street, Milford, Mass. — The gentleman whose card we print above has been engaged in his present line of business for just about thirty-nine years, for it was in 1851 that he first opened his doors to the public. Of the comparative standing of his enterprise we need say but little ; every- body who knows Milford at all intimately, knows of Mr. G. B. Knight's store and there is not a meat market in town that is worthy of more unreserved commendation. Mr. Knight was born in Maine, and holds a high place in the esteem of many of the residents of Milford and vicinity. The premises now occu- pied by him are located at 171 Main Street, and measure 18x.50 feet in dimensions. Employ- ment is given to experienced and well-inform- ed assistants, and customers are at all times as- sured courteous attention and polite and fair treatment. Mr. Knight gives particular atten- tion to supplying family trade, and the advan- tages he offers to those dealing with him are sufficiently pronounced to fully account for the business done in this line. Meats in large variety, and provisions of all seasonable kinds are always in stock, and those wishing any- thing in the above named lines of food supply should patronize the establishment in question as the prices quoted here are as low as any in town. H. C. Ross, Granite Quarry, Peter Ross, Agent. Milford, Mass. — Granite has long been a favorite stone for building purposes, but of late years it has become more popular than ever and is now used in buildings of about every description to a greater or less extent. To the ordinary observer there is but little dif- ference in granite,- that is, aside from obvious differences of coloring such as pink granite, grey granite etc., but those familiar with the stone are aware that there is a great variation in it, and that some quarries produce a far superior article to that found at other quarries close by. One of the most valuable of our Milford quarries is that controlled by Mr. Peter Ross, agent, and the uniform excellence of the product is so remarkable that a ready and prof- itable market is assured at all time«. Mr. Ross sells to contractors and employs seven as- sistants, being prepared to fill orders at short notice and to quote prices that are genuinely- low considering the superiority of the product. Henry S. Cushman, Manufacturer of Heavy and Light Fine Harnesses, also on hand Sale Harnesses at low price?. Horse Blankets, Storm Covers, Whips, Lap Robes, Horse Collars, Trunks, Bags. Repairing promp- ly and faithfully executed. 138 Main Street, Milford, Mass. — Mr. Henry S. Cushman is well and favorably known to the residents of Mil- ford and vicinity, and the enterprise conducted by him is probably even better known, for it was inaugurated a long time ago, being carried on for some years by Mr. Smith Cushman be- fore the present proprietor assumed possession in 1878. He is a native of Scituate, R. I., and gives his business clo«e per-onal attention, sparing no pains to maintain the enviable repu- tation so long associated with it. Mr. Cush- man is a manufacturer of Heavy and Light Fine Harnesses and also de;ils extensively in Sale Harnesses; quoting the lowest market rates and guaranteeing every article that he sells to prove prt^clsely as represented. His establishment is located at No. 138 Main St., and occupies one floor of the dinippsions of 80x25 feet. The stock on hand is both exten- sive and varied, and includes not only Har- nesses but also Horse Blankets, Storm Covers, Whips, Lap Robes, Horse Collars, and Horse Goods in general, together with a full line of Trunks, Bags, etc. Harnesses be made to order and particular attention is given to Repairing. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFORD. E. L. Temple, Successor to Gould & Sears, Photograph Eooms, all kinds of Pictures taken in the latest styles, Irving Block, opposite Post Oflace, Milford, Mass. — There has been a decid- ed elevation in the public taste of late years, and what was once considered entirely satis- factory would now be looked upon as distinct- ly inferior, particularly in photographic work. The most carefully finished photograph of even ten years ago would present but a sorry ap- pearance beside the productions of the best operators of today, for photography is an art as well as a science and ''progress" is the motto which must be followed to gain the highest success in it. There are some excel- lent photographers here in Milford, and among the list is Mr. E. L. Temple whose studio is lo- cated in Irving Block, opposite the Post Office. Mr. Temple is a successor to Messrs. Gould & Sears. His studio is equipped with the nec- essary apparatus for turning out work that will compare favorably with work from many more pretentious establishments. One is as- sured of getting a first-class likeness here, for no painsare spared to secure a result that will prove in every way satisfactory. Mr. Temple takes pictures of all kinds in the latest styles, particular attention being paid to children's pictures. Out door work of all kinds is done to order, and at short notice, copying is also done to order, and framing in all branches, is made a specialty and at very low prices. Mr. Temple employs one assistant, and guarantees his work to give satisfaction in both quality and price. ■Within gton & Son, Dealers in Flour, Grain and Groceries, Pure Teas, Cofi'ees, Spices, etc., corner Main and Franklin Streets, Milford, Mass. — The "Flour, Grain and Grocery Store" carried on at the corner of Main and Franklin Street, is a very popular institution in this sec- tion of the town and there is no reason why it should not be as it affords an opportunity to buy standard goods at bottom prices and is all the more able to quote the lowest rates on account of doing so extensive a retail business. The firm carrying it on, Messrs. Withington & Son, is a most enterprising and energetic one. The premises utilized comprise one floor and a basement each 30x.o0 feet in dimensions, and contain a full stock of Flour, Grain and Choice Family Groceries, also Teas, Coffees and Spices, which will be found extremely fresh and desirable in every way. There are compe- tent assistants employed and orders are assured prompt and careful filling. The establishment under question v/as founded by J. H. Putnam followed in 1877 by S. A. Eastman and since 1881 has been conducted by Messrs. Withington & Son. and the patronage as yet has not develop- ed to one half what may reasonably be ex- pected in the near future under existing con- ditions. The individual members of this firm are Mr. A. C. Withington, a native of Chester- field, N. H., and his son Mr. F. E. Withington of Milford. Both these gentlemen are very well known in social as well as business circles of Milford and vicinity, and Mr. A. C. Withington has held the office of Selectman, Assessor, Tax Collector, also Chief of the Fire Department. Gould's 5 and 10 Cent Variety Store, No. 84 Main Street, Milford. — Among those establishments which by general consent are accorded the leadership in their special line is that conducted by A. W. Gould at No. 84 Main Street, and "Gould's 5 and 10 Cent Store" as it is called, has no reason to avoid comparison with any similar enterprise in this town. We make this assertion advisedly and after a careful review of the subject and may add without egotism that we have had except- ional opportunities to form an adequate opin- ion regarding the comparative standing of any establishment of the sort mentioned. The en- terprise was established in 188.3 by the firm of Brocaw & Culver, the present proprietor as- suming full control of the business in 1886, and, has shown from the first that he would not be content with any second place in his line of business. Mr. Gould is a native of Franklin, Mass., and is widely known and highly esteem- ed in this community, because of his honorable business methods and the enterprise at his popular store. An extremely heavy stock is carried of Crockery, Glassware, Tinware and Woodenware in general, and a heavy retail, business is done. We need not inform those who have patronized this store, that all goods are sold at the very lowest rates, but to those who have not, we will say, no greater bargains are to be found in Milford, and certainly no such stock of goods from which to select. James B. Leonard, Dealer in Boots and Shoes, also Rubber Goods of all kinds, Milford, Mass. — In order to offer really attractive in- ducements to the public it is necessary to tho- roughly understand the goods in which you deal, and, therefore, when we say that Mr. James B. Leonard was for many years foreman in a shoe manufacturing establishment, it is equivalent to saying that he is in a position to give exceptional value to purchasers of boots,. shoes and footwear in general. He is a native of Middleboro, Mass., and served between three and four years during the Rebellion, afterwards acting as a clerk in the War Department during the years 1864, '65. Mr. Leonard opened his^ present establishment Dec. 7, 1889, occupy- ing elegant new quarters in Gillian's Block, the store having deep show-windows on each side of the entrance, and being fitted up through- out in accordance with the most approved mod- ern methods. The premises are of the dimen- sions of 90 X 30 feet, including the spacious back store, and the stock on hand is corre- spondingly extensive, comprising as it does a full line of all grades of boots and shoes, to- gether with an extensive assortment of rubber goods of every description. Mr. Leonard makes a leading specialty of fine footwear, but he caters to no one class of trade to the disad- vantage of others ; striving, on the contrary,, to offer genuine and strong inducements to the purchasing public in general. He is in a posi- tion to quote bottom prices ; to guarantee that every article shall prove just as represented,, and to assure immediate and intelligent service to all ; for besides giving personal attention to- the wants of customers, he employs three ex- perienced and efiicient assistants. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. 15- Z. C. Field, Successor to Field Brothers, Wholesale and Retail dealer iu Eastern and Western Lumber of every description, Dimen- sion Frames direct from mills a specialty, Lum- ber Yard and Office on Front Street, Milford, Mass. — The business conducted by the late firm of Field Brothers has for years been one of the leading enterprises of the kind in this portion of the state. The firm was founded in 1858, and with the exception of about five years that Mr. P. P. Field was doing business in Bos- ton, has carried on operations without change or interruption until Dec. 1, 1889, when the partnership was dissolved and the business di- vided, Mr. Z. C. Field retaining the lumber in- terests and Mr. P. P. Field the coal and wood business. Both gentlemen are natives of Maine, and are among the best known person- ally of all our local business men. Mr. Z. C. Field deals in Eastern and Western Lumber of every description, doing both a wholesale and a retail business and having such facilities as to enable the very heaviest orders to be filled without delay, while on the other hand the smallest commissions will be promptly and carefully executed. An immense stock is car- ried at all times. The Lumber office and yard are on Front Street. A leading specialty with this concern is the furnishing of Dimension Frames direct from the mills, and many orders of this description are filled, the prices quoted in connection with them being remarkably low. In fact, Mr. Field is in a position to name bot- tom figures and at the same time to supply commodities that cannot fail to give entire sat- isfaction. C. Sweeney, Meat and Vegetables, 79 Main Street, Milford. — It is perfectly safe to assert that the enterprise conducted by Mr. C. Sweeney ranks among the representative ones in this town, and his enterpi'ise is of the kind that pays too, for since succeeding James Darwin in 1887, he has built up a very prosper- ous business. The market utilized by Mr. Sweeney is located at No. 79 Main Street, and covers an area of 800 feet, being well fitted up and containing a fine assortment of beef, pork mutton, veal, lamb, etc., besides all kinds of vegetables iu their season. Mr. Sweeney gives careful personal attention to every detail of his business, and as two competent assistants are employed, he is able to handle his rapidly growing trade very easily. The residents of Milford know that meats, vegetables, etc., ob- tained from the establishment in question are sure to prove as represented, and they also know that both choice cuts and cheaper grades are here sold at the lowest market rates. We would therefore advise all interested readers, who have not already done so, to patronize the establishment of which Mr. C. Sweeney is the proprietor, and located at No. 79 Main Street, Milford, Mass. B. H. Spaulding, Manufacturer of Men's,. Boys' and Children's Straw Goods, Milford, Mass. — Among the more important of the many manufacturing establishments located in this town, that conducted by B. H. Spaulding holds a leading position, for he is one of the largest manufacturers of Straw Goods in the state, and his business has been built up during about 30* years of successful catering to the public taste. Mr. Spaulding was boi'n in Maine, and became identified with his present enterprise in 18G0, as a member of the firm of Slocum & Spauld- ing. In 1863 the style was changed to Morey & Spaulding, and in 1869 Mr. Spaulding be- came sole proprietor, renoaining so until 1878 when the firm of B. H. Spaulding & Co., was formed, this partnership continuing up to 1882, at which date Mr. Spaulding again assumed entire control. The premises utilized are very spacious, the main building being four stories in height and 40x140 feet in dimensions, and having an ell of equal height, measuring 28x120' feet. A commodious storehouse is also avail- able. The factory is excellently arranged, and is equipped throughout with the latest im- proved facilities for the manufacture of Men's, Boy's and Children's Straw Goods of all kinds. Mr. Spaulding employs from 200 to 250 assist- ants, and produces about 10,000 cases per an- num. There is no difficulty in disposing of these goods for they are very widely and favor- ably known among the trade, and are in fact conceded to be unsurpassed as regards that uniformity of excellence which is one of the strongest recomendations any manufactured product can have. Orders can be filled at com- paratively short notice, and we need hardly say that Mr. Spaulding is in a position to quote the very lowest market rates. ■William M. Sherman, Granite Quarry, Milford, Mass., Postoffice Address, Braggville, Mass. — A review of the business interests of Milford and vicinity which contained no men- tion of the many granite quarries in town would be looked upon as strangely incomplete and yet it is difficult to find anything new to say about these very important sources of wealth, as their leading characteristics are already well-known to the large majority of our readers. Among those most prominently identified with the granite trade must be men- tioned Mr. William M. Sherman, and any of our readers looking for a superior article of granite for building purposes would do well to give this gentleman a call, for he can satis- fy them if anybody can and he is in a position to fill orders with very little delay when haste is desirable. Mr. Sherman's postoffice address is Braggville, Mass., and all communications by mail or otherwise are assured prompt and painstaking attention. Estimates will be cheerfully furnished, and we may say here that no one is better prepared to quote bottom prices on large or small lots. 16 LEADINO BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. M. F. Green, Dealer in Ladies' Misses,' Childrea's aud Infants' Cloaks, Shawls, Jer- seys, Calico Wrappers, Hosiery, Underwear, etc., 118 Main Street, MUford, Mass. — The establishment carried on by M. F. Green at No. 118 Main Street is one well known to the public, for it is tlie only one between Boston and Worcester. It has been conducted by the present proprietor since 1884, and it is only fair to say that the propi-ietor fully deserves the high reputation for honorable dealing which he now enjoys. Tha store affords ample accommodations for an exceptionally large and complete assortment of goods, comprising the latest and most fashionable novelties as well as all the many standard articles coming under the head of Ladies' Misses' Children's and In- fants Cloaks, Shawls, Jerseys, Calico Wrap- pers, Hosiery, Underwear, etc. Three well- informed assistants are constantly in attend- ance and all visitors to this establishment are assured prompt and courteous attention. The proprietor. M. F. Green, is a native of Milford, and i^ well known personally throughout this vicinity, and the efforts he has made to cater to the purchasing public by offering strictly reliable goods at fair prices have been very favorably commented upon. The past and present policy of this gentleman has been and is to give every customer the full worth of his money, and under these circumstances the suc- cess he has won must be regarded as well- deserved. Mrs. O. M. Adams, Dealer in Fancy Goods, also Daily and Weekly Newspapers, Stationery, Toys, Picture Frames to order, Sewing Machine Supplies, Machines repaired, 110 Main Street, Milford, Mass. — The establish- ment now conducted by Mrs. O. M. Adams, was inaugurated in 1868 by Mr. O. M. Adams, and since his death which occurred in 1887. Mrs. Adams has assumed entire control of the business, and in fact the store was under her charge for years previous to her husband's death, he being engaged in outside work. Mrs. Adams is a native of Willington, Conn., and has a large circle of friends in this vicinity. The store utilized is located at 110 Main Street* and is shared with Geo. H. Whittemore' Jeweler. A large and varied stock is carried' constantly of all the Daily and Weekly Papers, Stationery, Toys, etc., together with a desir- able line of Sewing Machine Supplies, Picture Frames are manufactured to order, and Ma- chines are repaired in the best manner pos- sible at short notice and at very reasonable prices. Two well-informed assistants are con- stantly employed, thus ensuring immediate and intelligent service to all patrons. Partic- ular attention is paid to the supplying of fash- ionable stationery and very low prices are quoted in this department. We would there- fore advise our readers who desire anything in the periodical or stationery line to call at the establishment conducted by Mrs. O. M. Adams and inspect her stock and prices. Dr. G. L. Cook, Dentist, 200 Main Street, Bank Block, Milford, Mass. — There are certain professional men, as well as business houses who have been before the public so long that their history has almost become a portion of that of the town and certainly no account of the one would be entirely complete without some mention of the other. Such is the record of Dr. G. L. Cook, who practises his profes- sion as a Dentist at No. 200 Main Street, Mil- ford. Here he occupies spacious and comfort- able rooms, equipped with all the modern ap- paratus and facilities, for the comfort and convenience of his patrons. The Dental estab- lishment now conducted by him was founded in 1852, by A. A. Cook and in 185.S the firm of A. A. & G. L. Cook was formed and so contin- ued until 1872 since which Dr. G. L. Cook has conducted his business in Bank Block. It will thus be seen that he has had an exceptional experience in his profession, and indeed there are few Dentists more skillful in practical work than he. Dr. Cook is a graduate of the Baltimore Dental College and is prepared to undertake any and all dental operations, and may be relied upon to give the best possible advise and treatment to those who may honor him with their patronage. He is a native of Hadley, Mass., and is highly esteemed through- out Milford and vicinity and is a member of the Board of School Commitee. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. 17 Mansion House, Hapgood & Mayliew, I Proprietors, Carriages to and from all trains, ' Hack, Livery, Boarding and Sale Stable cou- oected, Carraiges furnished for all occasions, Milford, Mass. — Many strangers visit such a town as Milford every day, and to the large majority of them, the subject of hotel accom- modations is of the first importance and no in- formation will be more useful and acceptable than that pertaining to the subject mentioned. Therefore as this book is assured a very wide circulation outside of Miford as well as within its limits, we take pleasure in making promin- ent mention of the "Mansion House," for we are confident that those who may act on our advice and put up at the hotel in question, will have no reason to regret it, but on the contrary will thank us for having caused them to do so. The Mansion House is centrally and con- veniently located on Main Street, and is a spa- cious and well designed structure containing sixty guest rooms. It was established about seventeen years ago by Mr. Lewis Fisher, and has been in the hands of the present proprietors since 1879, and at no time in its history was it more ably managed or more generally patron- ized. The firm is made up of S. E. Hap- good, a native of Maine, and J. S. Mayhew of Milford who is one of the directors of the Home National Bank. Both parties are so widely and favorably known in Milford and vicinity, that extended personal mention be- comes unnecessary. They give constant and careful attention to the general supervision of aflfairs, and employ fourteen assistants, guests being thus assured prompt and efficient service. The house is very comfortably furnished from top to botton, and every portion of the prem- ises is kept in the very best of condition ; neat- ness being a prominent characteristic of the management, and being insisted upon in the smallest detail. An excellent Hack, Livery, Boarding and Sale Stable is connected with this hotel, where carriages are furnished for all occasions, also to and from all trains. Hoyt & Hill, Plumbers, Hot Water, Steam and Gas Fitters, Globes, Fixtures and Burners, Draining and Ventilating a specialty. Main St., near Jefferson, Milford, Mass. — Health, com- fort, and true economy all demand that our jjOuses should be as perfectly heated as possible, and, generally speaking, it must be conceded that Hot Water heating apparatus gives the very best re- sults yet attained. But such appara- tus must be properly designed, prop- erly constructed and properly set up in order to get satisfaction, and therefore before placing an order for such a plant it is well to satisfy oneself that the parties to whom it is proposed to give it, know their business and are responsible as well as skillful. Certainly no mistake will be made in patronizing Messrs. Hoyt & Hill, for these gentlemen make a specialty of Plumbing, Steam, Hot Water and Gas Fitting. Mr. Frank J. Hoyt's Gas Fitting record since he began operations here some years ago, is such as to entitle him to the full confidence of the public. He is a native of Boston, Mass., and has a large number of friends throughout this vicinity. Mr. Charles A. Hill is a native of Milford, but for 15 years has been connected with the hardware trade in Boston. The partnership was formed in October, 1889, under the firm name of Hoyt & Hill. The store utilized is located on Main Street, near Jefferson. Employment is given to six assistants and orders for Plumbing, Hot Water, Steam or Gas Fitting will be given immediate and painstaking attention. A good stock of plumbers' findings, Globes, Burners, and Engineers Supplies, etc., are constantly on hand, ventilation is made a specialty. Moder- ate charges are made and the work is guaran- teed to give satisfaction, and to be done at short notice. W. Chapin, Agt., Meats, Vegetables and Canned Goods, 116 Main Street, Milford, Mass. — The world grows wiser as it grows older, and the time when it was thought that true economy was to be attained by stinting the food supply has gone by, never to return. It has been discovered that a man can do more work, do it better and do it easier when he has an abundance of substantial and nutritious food than under different conditions, and peo- ple live better and live longer since this princi- ple was established and put into practice. In order to purchase meats and other "substan- tials" to the best advantage some little dis- crimination is necessary, and in this connec- tion we may call attention to the establishment carried on by Mr. W. Chapin at No. 116 Main Street, for here may always be found a choice assortment of Meats, Vegetables and Canned Goods, and the prices quoted are satisfactory as the goods themselves. Mr. Chapin makes a specialty of Family ti-ade and his stock is skill- fully selected with a particular view to the re- quirements of this class of patronage. Mr. Chapin is a native of Milford, and is thorough- ly conversant with his business in all its branches, having had twelve years of exper- ience in this line of trade previous to his suc- ceeding Mr. Walter Phips in 1889. The goods offered by him are in every instance fully guar- anteed to prove as represented, and large and small buyers receive equally prompt and polite attention. 2 18 LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. New York Boot and Shoe Store, No. 170 Main Street, Milford, Mass.— The enter- prise carried on under tlie management of Mr. M. A. Saunders at No. 170 Main Street, was in- augurated in 1872. The New Yorli Boot and Shoe Store, is very favorably known through- out Milford, and it is generally conceded that at no similar establishment can the customer get more genuine value for money paid. Mr. Saunders is very widely known and highly esteemed here. He has had a great deal of ex- perience in his present line of business and not only knows a good shoe when he sees it but takes pains to represent things to his patrons precisely as they are, a fact which naturally has much to do with the popularity of his store and his methods. A carefuUj' selected stock of Boots, Shoes and Kubbers is constant- ly on hand, and those who appreciate stylish, perfect fitting and comfortable foot-wear will find a complete assortment of such goods here to choose from. Mr. Saunders caters to all classes of trade and guarantees to suit the most fastidious, as regards style, fit and durability. Moderate prices are quoted, and orders can be filled at very short notice. E. A. Hart's Restaurant and Dining Rooms, No. 4 Jefterson Street, Milfoi d. — The establish- ment carried on by Mr. E. A. Hart is just the kind of a place which it would be useful for many of those visiting Milford to know about, for excellent meals are furnished by him at very reasonable prices, and regular boarders are accommodated in a thoroughly satisfactory manner at moderate rates. Tne restaurant has a seating capacity for 60 guests, and board bj' the day or week can be obtnined. Mr. Hart has conducted this business so successfully that it has become one of the '•'^institutions" of Milford, its reputation by no means being con- fined to this town. Mr. Hart has worked hard to build up a business and certainly deserves whatever success he has won. The food is of excellent quality and is well cooked, and the prices are very low consideiing the service rendered. Mr. Hart employs three assistants and gives his personal attention to the details of his business so that patrons are sure of prompt and pleasing service. T. N. Sherman & Co., Dealers in all kind& of Granite Building Stone. Pink Granite a Specialty. P. O. Address, Braggville, Mass, Quarry, Milford, Mass. — The supply of granite in this state is practically inexhaustible, and comprises such a great variety of stones suit- able for moQumental and building purposes as to enable special kinds adapted to any partic- ular use to be furnished. The hardness of granite has of course interfered somewhat with its use, as it is comparatively difficult and ex- pensive to work, but this very hardness is one of its most valuable properties, especially for a stone that is to be exposed to our New Eng- land climate. Improved tools and methods of quarrying, cutting, etc., have reduced the expense of granite very considerably and it is coming more and more into use with every succeeding year. Among the best-known of the Milford concerns handling this material,- stands the firm of T. N. Sherman & Co., who deal in all kinds of granite building stone, but make pink granite a specialty. Employment is given to from 10 to 25 assistants, according to the season, and the very heaviest orders cart be filled at short notice, and at prices in strict accordance with the lowest market rates. The quarry is in Milford, but the firm's post-office address is Braggville, Mass., where all com- munications may be sent in the full assurance that they will receive immediate and painstak- ing attention. Mathewson Bros., Successor to S. Math- ewson, Manufacturer of and Dealer in Bread, Cake, Pastry, and Crackers of all kinds. 62: Central street, Milford, Mass. — The Bakery of which the late Mr. S. Mathewson was the pro- prietor is one of the '' institutions " of Milford for it was established in 1851 and has since held a leading position among the most truly representative undertakings located in that wide-awake town. Operations were begun by Messrs. Hastings & Mathewson, but from 186& to 1889 Mr. S. Mathewson had sole control. The business has now passed into the hands of his sons, Mr. Frank E. and Wm. A. Mathewson both of whom are too generally known through- out Milford and vicinity to need extended per- sonal mention. Mathewson Brothers are man- ufacturers of and dealers in bread, cake, pastry and crackers of all kinds, and occupy premi- ses located at No. 62 Central street. One rotary oven and three brick ovens are utilized and employment is given to 18 assistants, both a wholesale and retail business being done. Five teams are run in connection with the business and the demand for the goods is a& steady as it is large for it has not been created in a day but is the proper result of years of close and intelligent application to business. Although their goods have long held a stand- ard position in the market, Mathewson Bros, take as much pains in their production as ever and use only carefully chosen material in every department of their manufacture. They are excellently prepared to meet all honorable competition and quotes the lowest market rates to both wholesale and retail buyers. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. 19 ■William Came, Manufacturer of Build- ing Trimmings, Store and Office Fixtures, Cabinet Work, etc. At Eastman's Steam Mill, Jtlilford, Mass. — The extensive use now made of machinery in the manufacture of builder's finish, has resulted in the cost of such articles being very materially reduced, and the conse- quence is that houses can be mucli more elabo- rately and conveniently fitted up than would once have been possible for any owners but the very wealthy. Of late years it has become fashionable to fit up stores and offices in an elegant and sumptuous manner, and indeed so generally is this custom followed at the pres- ent time, that in many cases a plain office is looked upon by the public as evidence that the f)arty occupying it lacks either enterprise or iberality. Of course such a judgment may be unjust but it is very natural nevertheless, and business men would do well to bear this in mind and act accordingly. It is surprising how far quite a modest sum of money will go when properly expended in this direction, and in no way can it be more judiciously expended than by placing the order with Mr. William Came who has a very thoroughly equipped shop at Eastman's steam mill, and makes a specialty of the manufacture of store and office fixtures, building trimmings, cabinet work, etc. This business was formerly carried on by Mr. W. H. Hooker, but has been controlled entirely by the present proprietor since 1888. He is a native of England, and had charge as superintendent of the business for some years before becoming the owner of it. From three to seven assistants are employed, and all orders can be filled at short notice and in a thoroughly workmanlike manner. Mr. Carne quotes very low prices, and those wishing any- thing in his line may save money here. Waldo B. Whiting, Dealer in Dry Goods, Corner of Main and Jefferson streets, Milford, Mass. — The secret of successfully carrying on a retail store is after all no secret at all, for every observing person knows that honorable business methods and judicious enterprise are sure to win the favor and patronage of the public. A large and varied stock of dry goods well selected and properly displayed, is sure to attract attention and if the prices placed upon the articles composing it, are reasonable, the goods are bound to sell as a matter of course. Therefore no further explanation is required in connection with the business done by Mr. Waldo B. Whiting at the corner of Main and Jefferson streets. This gentleman has the right kind of prices, and customers are sure of the right kind of treatment, so that the business is of necessity prosperous. It was established by Mr. E. McKay and since 1889 has been under the entire control of the present proprietor, Mr. Waldo B. Whiting. He is a native of Holliston, Mass., and is well-known throughout Milford. The premises in use cover an area of 20x60 feet, and the stock on hand includes everything generally found at a first-class dry goods store. Two competent assistants are employed, no misrepresentation is practiced here and the proprietor strives to supply goods at prices as low as the lowest. T. Quirk, Dealer in Coal, Wood and Gener- al Jobbing ; Cor. Pond and Main Streets, Mil- ford, Mass. — Mr. T. Quirk has been in business in Milford for about a score of years, and the steady and large growth of his trade during that time affords convincing evidence that his methods are of a kind that '' wear well," and so are permanently popular with the purchas- ing public. At first Mr. Quirk confined him- self to dealing in wood, but in 1878 he added groceries to his stock in trade, and about two years ago he began to handle coal. The main store is 30 x 50 feet in dimensions, and contains a very heavy stock of staple and fancy grocer- ies, selected expressly for family use and made up of articles that are sure to suit the most critical. The assortment of canned goods is especially worthy of favorable mention, for it comprises the productions of the leading packers and includes about every thing in the line of preserved fruits, vegetables, etc. A spacious store-house is also utilized and Mr. Quirk's sons, S. C. J. Quirk and F. T. Quirk have the management largely of the store and a sufficient number of assistants are employed to assure prompt attention to every caller. The wood yard is commodious and well-fitted up, and enough storage capacity is available to accommodate 2000 tons of coal. Mr. Quirk makes a practice of quoting bottom prices in every department of his business, and his long experience and favorable relations with pro- ducers and wholesalers enable him to meet all competition very easily. Orders are delivered promptly when promised, and the goods are sure to give entire satisfaction as they will prove precisely as represented. Mrs. Everett Cheney, Dealer in Books, Sta- tionery, Periodicals, Music, Fancy Goods, etc., Confectionery and Cigars, 136 Main street, Milford, Mass.— The stock of fine books, sta- tionery, etc., carried by Mrs. Everett Cheney at her store located at No. 136 Main street, is a most attractive one for it comprises the very latest fashionable novelties in this line as well as a full collection of more staple goods. Mrs. Everett Chene}^ is a native of Milford, and has carried on her present enterprise since the death of Mr. Cheney which occurred in 1887. Mr. Cheney had been identified with the busi- ness for twenty years, having established ifc about 1867. The premises utilized are 20x50 feet in dimensions, and it would be hard to find a more attractive or generally popular store in town. Besides books, stationery and periodicals, Mrs. Cheney deals largely in music, fancy goods, toys, etc., and also sells confectionery, cigars, fruit, soda, etc., and in short handles so many desirable articles that it is no wonder that her trade should be con- stantly increasing, especially as all goods are fully guaranteed to prove as represented and low prices are quoted in every department. Three well-informed assistants are employed and callers may depend upon receiving imme- diate and courteous attention, and also upon being entirely satisfied with whatever they may buy at this popular store. 20 LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. Dempsey established his business ia 1878, and now does an ex- clusively retail trade and caters especially to family trade, era- ploying two assist- ants, and filling large or small orders with- out delay. We have spoken of his carry- ing choice cuts, but also wish to call at- tention to the fact that his stock is by no means confined to such goods, but com- prise everything usu- ally found in a first- class provision store, whether you want soup stock or tender- loin steak, you can get it here, and at prices as low as the market will allow. Joseph F. Hickey, Dealer in Dry and Fancy Goods, 147 Main St., Milford, Mass.— The establishment carried on by Mr. Joseph F. Hickey, and devoted to the sale of Dry and Fancy Goods, Cloaks, etc., has been conducted by its present proprietor since 1884. Mr. Hickey is a native of Milford, and has been School Committee and Trustee of Library. He has increased his business to a considerable extent during the past five years, for he has built up a very large trade, his store being among the best iu town. It is located at 147 Main St., and although having an area of 22x106 feet(with well lighted basement of same dimen- sions), is none too lai-ge to accommodate the heavy stock carried. The policy pursued in the management of the enterprise is most satisfactory to all concerned, and when we add that the latest novelties are obtained as good as they appear in the New York and Boston markets, and that a full line of staple goods is constantly carried, while bottom prices are quoted in every department, and prompt and polite attention is assured to every caller by the employment of ten competent assistants, ye think that our readers will agree that the increasing popularity of this representative store is well merited and is sure to continue. M. Dempsey, Meats, Vegetebles, &c., Milord, Mass.— The meat market conducted by Mr. M. Dempsey, is located at No. 39 Centriil Street, and is so convenient to reach that the establishment is liberally patronized. But there are other reasons besides convenience of location for the popularity of this market, and not the least of these is the fact that the customers are always sure to get just what they pay for. If you order first class meat, you may depend upon getting it every time, for Mr. Dempsey always carries a full assort- ment of choice cuts, and is prepared to supply the same at the very lowest market rates. Mr. Dr. George Phelps Cooke, Surgeon Den- tist, Grant Block.— One who has practised dentistry for seventeen years must necessarily have had great experience in the minutest de- tails of his profession, and, as Dr. George P. Cooke began operations in 1872, it is superfiu- ous to add that he is thoroughly familiar with every department of practical dentistry. His reputation as a skillful and careful operator is by no means confined to Milford, but extends throughout this section of the state, and as a natural consequence many of his patients travel a considerable distance to obtain the benefit of his service. In the case of so old- established and widely-known a practitioner it would be almost impertinent for us to eulo- gize his methods, and praise the result attained, so we will simply say that the residents of Milford and vicinity are to be congratulated on having a dentist of such practical experience located in their midst. This dental establish- ment was founded in 1851 under the manage- ment of Messrs. A. A. and J. L. Cooke, who were succeeded in 1872 by Messrs. A. A. and Geo. P. Cooke the last named gentleman as- suming full control of the business in 1879. Dr. Geo. P. Cooke is a native of Oxford, Mass., and is a graduate of the Harvard Dental Col- lege and at one time had charge of the dental department at the Massachusetts General Hos- pital, and during the seventeen j^ears that he has devoted to the active duties of his profes- sion has so amply demonstrated his fitness for the delicate and responsible duties appertain- ing to it that we need not enlarge upon his skill, his thoroughness or his success. Suffice it to say that he is prepared to undertake dent- istry in all its branches, and that his charges are uniformly moderate. Dr. Cooke was elected representative from this district by a large majority vote in the last annual election — which fact emphasizes the statements above made of his relation with the public with whom his business interests are so closely allied. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. 21 J. L. Smith, Dealer in Tin, Glass and Wooden Ware, Iron, Metals, Paper Stock, Woolen Rags, Machine Rag:?, etc., etc. ; Carpet Sweepers and Clothes Wringers Repaired; Pearl Street, cor. Main, Milford, Mass. — The establishment now under the management of Mr. J. L. Smith is the oldest in its line of busi- ness in town, and no house in Milford holds a higher or more honestly earned reputation for dealing fairlv with its customers, so that the liberal patronage which this house enjoys is but another proof of the truth of that familiar old saying, " Honesty is the best policy." The establishment in question was established by the firm of Heywood & Warren, and after- wards continued by H. O. Lothrop, and has been under the control of the present proprie- tor since 1868. Mr. J. L. Smith is a native of Washington, N. H., and is widely known in Milford and vicinity. He gives careful per- sonal attention to the details of his business, the result being the uniform reliability of goods offered and the prompt and courteous service awarded every customer. The prem- ises utilized are located on Pearl Street, cor- ner of Main, and cover an area of 2,000 square feet. The large storage capacity thus afforded is very fully availed of. for the stock dealt in is extensive and complete, and includes tin, glass and wooden ware, iron, metals, paper stock, woolen and machine rags, etc., etc. Competent assistants are employed, and no trouble is spared to give callers every opportu- nity to make a satisfactory choice, goods being cheerfully shown, and will prove as repre- sented. No one is better prepared to quote bottom prices, and those who want anything in Mr. Smith's line sh luld certainly call at his establishment on Pe-irl Street, corner of Main, before placing their orders elsewhere. circle of friends in Milford. His premises cover an area of 25 x 70 feet and contain a fine stock of fresh confectionery, ice cream, and choice foreign and domestic fruits, cigars, etc. Mr. Macuen makes a specialty of catering for balls, parties, etc. Six competent assistants are employed and all orders are promptly and satisfactorily executed. ^ ^ ^ y A. T. Macuen, Manufacturer of Ice Cream and Confectionery and Dealer in Fruit and Ci- gars, 87 Main Street, Milford, Mass. — It is really no wonder that some people are almost afraid to eat ice cream and confectionery of any description, for the newspapers have devoted considerable space to articles on the subject of ice cream and candy adulteration, and not everybody who reads these articles is in a po- sition to see the many positive absurdities which many of them contain. "Space writers" must have something to write about, that is sure, and if nothing else offers, why they pitch into the confectionery manufacturer. This seems to be about as reasonable an explanation as can be offered, and the readers of the alarm- ing articles alluded to will notice that no names are mentioned and that no direct statement is made that can be taken up by any individual manufacturer. The confectionery establish- ment located at No. 87 Main street was estab- lished several years ago by Christopher P. Cook, and has been under the management of the present proprietor since 1881, and those who have done either a wholestile or retail bus- iness with Mr. Macuen, and have personally and repeatedly tested the quality of the goods he handles, need not be told that they are just as represented in every respect. Mr. Macuen was born in New Brunswick and has a large D. J. Cronan, Dealer in Boots, Shoes and Rubbers; Real Estate and Business Places of all kinds for Sale and Exchange; Jos. D. Cronan, John Cronan, Salesmen; 154 Main St., Milford, Mass.— Although there are many who consider themselves to be good judges of boots and shoes, we have yet to see the man, not a practical shoemaker, who can really estimate the true value of a pair of boots or shoes after they are all ready for the market. The appear- ance and feeling of the leather are some help, the general character of the workmanship is also a guide, but, after all, nothing certain can be known before the article is put to the test of every-day use. Therefore the importance of buying your footwear of an experienced, responsible and reputable dealer, becomes manifest. Mr. D. J. Cronan has been engaged in the sale of Boots, Shoes and Rubbers since 1871. His store is located at No. 154 Main Street, and is 25x50 feet in dimensions. He has the assistance of Messrs. Jos. D. and John Cronan as salesmen, and if you want to see a carefully selected stock of reliable footwear of all descriptions, just give this establishment a call, and your wish will be granted. Mr. Cronan deals only with reputable wholesalers and manufacturers, and offers his patrons goods that will prove as represented in every respect. Mr. D, J. Cronan is also engaged in the Real Estate business, and is connected with the firm of J. McGuinis & Co., of 247 Washington Street, Boston, and has Real Estate and Business Places of all kinds for sale and exchange, and as the prices quoted in both lines of his busi- ness are as low as the market will allow, it is not surprising that his establishment should be one of the most popular in town.T" Mr. Cro- nan was a member of the Board of Selectmen for four successive years. ^ 22 LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. P. W. Mann, 64 Central St, Milf ord, 'Mass. — Among the various enterprises carried on in this town it would be difficult to find one moregenuinelj' use- ful than that con ducted by Mr. F. W. Mann, 64 Cen- tral street. Among the many valuable products of this shop, especial at- tention is called to Mann's Bone Cutter for poultry food. Many attempts in different parts of the country have been made to pro- duce a hand ma- chine by which poultry men could break up in some way fresh raw bones for their fowls and chickens. It seems, however, that every apparatus has proved totally inade- quate for this work until Mr. Mann devised his machine by which the bones are securely held and planed like wood by sharp steel cutters. This machine does not grind or crush, it planes or cuts the bones with the meat and gristle on them. It is true no other machine ever ap- proached this method of working up green bones. Mr. Mann believes that no other in- ventor has dai-ed try the experiment of putting sharp steel cutters against the hard flinty bone. He says, '*We should hardly have tried it our- selves if we had not seen clearly that there was no other way for us to make the machine. The buyers always find Mr. Mann ready to sign a warrant stating that the hand machine will cut dry or fresh bones, meat and gristle without clog or difficulty or money refunded. Three sizes of power machines and five stvles of hand machines are produced, which afford an assortment of valuable machines suitable to the demands of any hennery whether large or small. Send for illustrated catalogue and see for yourselves. Although this machine was not patented until August 20, 1889, yet it has been awarded the following premiums; — " Di- ploma " from the Attleboro Agricultural Asso- ciation,— " Certificate of Merit " of the Bay State Agricultural Society, — " Toronto Bronze Medal and Diploma" by the Industrial Exhibi- tion, Toronto, Canada. Mr. Mann maintains one of the best equipped shops for all kinds of machine repairing to be found in this section of the state. The premises are located at No. 64 Central street and comprise three floors of the dimensions of 40 x 50 feet, a No. 6 Thom- son-Houston electric motor furnishing power. Employment is given to a sufficient corps of assistants to meet the demands of the business promptly. Light and heavy machine jobbing is attended to with promptness and dispatch. This undertaking has been under the sole con- trol of Mr. F, \V. Mann since 1887, he having at that time succeeded Messrs. Chapman & Mann, who were preceded by Mr. A. N. Chap- man. The present owner is a native of Nor- folk, Mass. He received a four year's educa- tion at Cornell, the University of the State of New York, graduating from the course of me- chanical engineering in 1878. The success he has gained may be attributed to his thorough education and his habit of giving close person- al attention to the details of his business. Special machinery will be built to order at short notice, and shafting, hangers, pulleys, and gearing will be furnished at lowest market rates. A complete line of j)ii5e fittings, set screws, and steel constantly on hand. J. Allen Rice, Wholesale and Eetail Drug- gist; 116 Main Street, Milford, Mass. — It is very nearly half a century since the business carried on by Mr. J. Allen Kice was founded, it having been established in 1846, by Dr. A. C. Fay, who was succeeded by E. M. Ililliard, and he by L. J. Wilson in 1854, the present proprietor having assumed full control in 1870. He is a native of Barre. Mass., and is very highly esteemed throughout Milford and vicin- ity. A large and carefully selected stock of drugs, medicines and chemicals is carried, and every facility is at hand for the prompt and accurate compounding of physicians" prescrip- tions at moderate rates. No pains is spared to obtain the best and purest ingredients the market affords, and the exceptionally high reputation held by Mr. Kice in connection with this important department of the business proves that the methods employed are appreci- ated by the general public. The premises uti- lized are located as No. 116 Main Street, and comprise a store and basement, each 20x70 feet in dimensions. The business is both wholesale and retail in character, low prices being quoted in both departments, and only dependable goods are handled. Employment is given to two courteous assistants. Edward E. Cook, Livery, Hack, Board and Feed Stable, Milford, Mass.— Mr. Edward E. Cook has carried on operations in Milford for about eighteen years, and is widely known in this vicinity as he does a large business and his customers are scattered over a good deal of ter- ritory. He established his livery, hack, board- ing and feed stable in 1871, and has since con- ducted it in a first-class manner. His facilities are so thoroughly understood hereabouts that it is quite unnecessary to speak of them in detail, and we will confine ourselves to briefly refer- ing to the accommodations he is prepared to offer the public in general. Teams can be furnished at very short notice, and patrons will have nothing to complain of as regards style, etc., for Mr. Cook has some handsome and easy car- riages and some speedy, safe and willing horses at his disposal, and his turnouts will be found far superior to those commonlj' consid- ered "good enough*' for livery purposes. First class board and comfortable quarters will be furnished at moderate rates and there being twenty-two stalls on the premises, quite a num- ber of boarders can be accommodated, care- ful attention and plenty of good food being assui'ed all horses entrusted to his care. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFORD. 23 P. J. Handmore, Manufacturer of Foreign 4ind Domestic Cijjars; all Orders Promptly At- tended to; 98 Main St., Milford, Mass. — When -a stranger arrives to a city or town, his first questions are of course affected in a great measure by his personal habits. Of course he will want a good hotel, but after that point is provided for, if he be a smoker, the chances are he will want to know where he can get a good cigar. Well, if in Milford, no better place can be found than the establish- ment of which Mr. P. J. Handraore is the proprietor, located at 98 Main Street. This enterprise has been carried on here since 18S3, And a large business has been built up. Mr. Handmore is a manufacturer as well as a dealer in domestic and foreign cigars, and recognized the fact that he must furnish a good article if he wished to establish a perma- nent business, and from the very beginning he has taken pains to manufacture and sell cigars that were uniform and excellent in flavor, as well as low in price. The premises utilized cover an area of 400 square feet, and emploj^- meut is given to three assistants. The busi- ness is not confliied to the manufacture of cigars, but includes the sale of tobacco and smokers' articles in general, and a fine assort- ment of foreign cigars. All orders are promptly attended to. Mr. Hardmore is very low in his prices, and his goods are sure to prove just as represented. A. A. Coburn, Dealer in Dry and Fancy Goods, Small Wares, etc., Main Street, oppo- site Mansion House, Milford, Mass. — There are manj- attractive dry and fancy goods stores in Milford, but we know of none better calcu- lated to favorably impress a discriminating ob- server, both as regards its exterior and interior appearance, than that conducted by Mr. A. A. Coburn, located on Main sti'eet opposite the Mansion House. This store contains a very skil- fully selected stock, complete in every depart- ment and arranged to most excellent advantage, the entire appearance of the establishment testifying to the experience and good taste of the management. This establishment was founded in 1862 by A. Temple. In 1865 it passed into the firm name of A. Temple & Co. In 1869 Mr. A. A. Coburn became sole proprietor, then it was changed in 1883 to Coburn & 01m- stead. The present proprietor, Mr. A. A. Coburn assumed full control of the business again in 1888. The premises occupied are 26 x 80 feet in dimensions and offier ample room for the ac- commodation of an extensive assortment of dry and fancy goods and small wares. Mr. Co- burn is evidently determined to allow no goods to accumulate on his hands, for prices are placed so low as to assure the prompt sale of all the articles dealt in. Customers may de- pend upon receiving prompt and polite attention for an ample force of assistants is employed, and uniform courtesy is the rule to all. Every article is sold strictly on its merits, no misrep- resentations being allowed, and we believe it would be impossible to find an establishment offering superior advantages to purchasers. Mrs. R. T. Gardiner, Dealer in Millinery, Bank Block, Milford. Mass. — An establishment which well deserves mention among the fore- most in Milford, is that conducted by Mrs. R. T. Gardiner, located in Bank Block, and indeed it would be diflicult to pick out a more truly representative enterprise than that to which we have reference. It was established by Mr. Geo. W. Hale, and since 1866 has been under the entire control of the present proprietress, and one is always sure to find the latest fash- ionable novelties here, for Mrs. Gardiner deals in Millinery Goods of all descriptions and takes special pains to see that her customers have the most approved styles to select from, 'i he premises utilized are of the dimensions of 23x 65 feet, and are conveniently located and ex- cellently adapted for the purposes to which they are put. The stock of Millinery Goods is always very complete and includes both trim- med and untrimiued Hats and Bonnets in all the latest shapes. Kibbons, Velvets, Feathers and other Trimming Materials are dealt in largely, and prompt and polite attention is given to every customer. Mrs. Gardiner makes a specialty of Millinery AV'ork to order and has an unsurpassed reputation for thoroughness and good taste in this important department. Employment is given to three efficient assist- ants, and when necessity requires, work can be pushed through at suririsingly short notice. Prices are very moderate, and this fact taken in connection with the uniform excellence of the work accounts for the large business done. Excelsior Cement Co.. Manufacturers of all kinds of Channel. Leather and Rubber Ce- ment, E. J. Roche, Manager, Box 595, Milford, Mass. — Those who are in a position to know of the variety, extent and importance of the uses to which cement is ])ut in manufacturing oper- ations, need not be told that a very large amount of this substance is consumed annually and that the consumption of it is steadily and rapidly increasing. There are various kinds and grades of cement on the market, but it is perfectly safe to assert that no maker produces goods which give better and more permanent satisfaction than those turned out b_v the Ex- celsior Cement Company, which begun opera- tions in 1889, and of which Mr. James Lally, Jr., is President, Mr. P. J. Baxter, Treasurer. Mr. C. H. Waters Secretary, and Mr. E. J. Roche is Manager. This company manufacture all kinds of Channel, Leather and Rubber Cement, and utilize a factory having an area of 3000 square feet. The leading brands turned out are Excelsior, Extra Heavy Para, Heavy Para, Pure Para, Paste and Oil Proof, and we may say right here that all these cements are war- ranted to do the work in first-class shops, they being entirely free from all adulteration and being exceptionally uniform in quality. The company quote very low prices on all their goods, and are ready to fill the heaviest orders at short notice. Communications addressed to Box 595 will receive prompt attention, and manufacturers would do well to investigate the advantages which this enterprising con- cern are prepared to offer. 24 LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. Milford Savings Bank, Milford, Mass. — The good done bj' our local institution, the Milford Savings Bank, during its nearly 40 years of existence, is simply incalculable, and it gives us great pleasure to declare that the bank was never better prepared than now to continue its good work, and that the future outlook is as bright as the past record is honor- able. The Milford Savings Bank was incor- porated April 24, 1851, and now holds on de- posits savings approximating $1,300,000. To give an idea of the class of men who have been identified with this bank from the first, we pre- sent a list of the original oflicers, and also of those now in charge. OFFICERS ELECTED A. D. 1852. PRESIDENT, David Stearns Godfrey. VICE-PRESIDENTS, Orison Underwood, Aaron Claflin, Aaron C. Mayhew. TRUSTEES. Benjamin Davenport, Sullivan Sumner, John Erskine, Hiram Hunt, Sullivan Thaj'er, Wm.A.Hayward, Allyn Weston, Zelek Darling, Benjamin D. Godfrey. TREASURER, David Brewer. OFFICERS ELECTED A. D. 1886. PRESIDENT, John P. Daniels. VICE-PRESIDENTS, C. F. Claflin, A. J. Sumner, Amarlah A. Taft. Trustees. O. Underwood, J, P. Daniels, A. J. Sumner, Amariah A. Taft, C. F. Chapin, A. Wheeler, Wm. F. Draper, C. A. Dewey, E. C. Claflin, Geo. A. Draper, C. F. Claflin, Jesse A. Taft. Chas. A. Claflin. treasurer, J. E. Walker. "Wm. P. Reynolds, Picture Frame Maker, all kinds of 1 jght Jobbing in Wood, also Fur- niture, Trunks, etc.. Repaired, 136 Main Street, Milford, Ma>=s. — Picture frame making is a trade that has changed its character greatly of late years, since machinery has come into such general use in its manufacture, but it is still possible to find Picture Frame Makers who understand their business thoroughly in every detail and one of the most expert of those of whom we have knowledge is Mr. Wm. F. Reynolds whose place of business is located at No. 136 Main Street, Milford. This gentleman was born in Lincoln, R. I., and began opera- tions here in Milford in 1876. His premises cover an area of 500 feet and are well supplied with all necessary tools, appliances etc., for the execution of all orders for Picture Frames. Door and House Bells, and Door and Window Screens, all these articles are furnished and put up to order. Black Walnut and White Hol- ly Wood is kept in stock for brackets. We have no hesitation in guaranteeing complete satisfaction to all who may favor Mr. Reynolds with an order, for he is a thoroughly skilled mechanic and allows no inferior w his establishment, while his charges are uni- formly moderate. Furniture and Trunk Re- pairing are given prompt and careful attention, and will be renovated to look as good as new at moderate expense, and those wishing anything of the kind done cannot possibly do better elsewhere. Mrs. R. Aylward, Stamping Rooms, Goods of all Kinds Furnished and Stamped by the Non-Erasible Method, Silk and Floss Fur- nished for the Diflerent Designs, Grant Block, Up Stairs, Milford . — Mrs. Aylward needs no introduction to our Milford readers, or at all events to such of them as are numbered among the fau* sex, for she has carried on op- perations in this town since 1861, and now maintains the best equipped stamping rooms in this section. The stamping is done by the non-erasible method, and consequently the finest and most intricate design will remain complete and plainly visible until the entire pattern is worked — an advantage which will be duly appreciated by those who have had prac- tical experience of the drawbacks attending the ordinary method of stamping. Embroid- ering materials of all kinds will be furnished at moderate rates, and designs will be sup- plied at prices as low as the lowest. The prem- ises utilized have an area of about 500 square feet, and are located in Grant Block, up stairs. Callers are sure of receiving prompt and cour- teous attention and orders can be filled at re- markably short notice if desired. Mrs. Ayl- ward carries a large and desirable stock of patterns to which she is constantly adding the newest and best to be found. ^ .qjal 1\J.B Thomas & Walcott, Dealers in Dry and Fancy Goods, etc. ; 112-114 Main Street, Mil- ford, Mass. — Among the prominent merchants engaged in this important branch of industry, we are pleased to call attention to Messrs. Thomas & Walcott, whose fine and complete establishment ranks among the leading houses of its kind in Milford. This house was estab- lished by Messrs. Simmonds & Adams, who were succeeded in 1887 by the present firm. Messrs. Thomas & Walcott have already gained a large share of public favor. They occupy a large double store covering an area of 23x90 feet on one side and 20x60 on the other, in addition to a large basement. They carry a large and finely selected stock of dry and fancy goods, including the newest domestic and most popular foreign importations in cloaks, small wares, dress goods, etc. The extensive retail trade acquired by this house require the ser- vices of twelve thoroughly experienced assist- ants, and the details of the business are most ably managed under the direct personal super- vision of the proprietors. The individual mem- bers of the firm are Mr. E. A. Thomas, a native of New Salem, and Mr. G. P. Walcott, of Belmont, and are both well and favorably known in social as well as business circles of Milford. They are men of rare natural ability, and enjoy in a pre-eminent degree the respect and confidence of all who do business with them. LEAD1I\G BUSINESS MEN OF MILFORD. 25 P. J. Donohoe, Apothecary, 155 Main St., Milford, Mass. — Mr. P. J. Donohoe has made a record second to none for efficiency and relia- bility in the dispensing of drugs, and the per- formance of all the duties incidental to the carrying on of a first class apothecary and now that he has removed to his new store, No. 155 Main street, he is much better prepared to serve the public than ever before. The premi- ses cover an area of 30 x 84 feet and are fitted up with every modern facility for the carrying on of operations to the best advantage. The stock of drugs, medicines and chemicals is made up of fresh and carefully selected goods, obtained from the most reliable sources. A specialty is made of compounding physicians'" prescriptions with especial care that the purest and best materials are used and at moderate rates, every precaution being taken to ensure absolute accuracy even in the most trivial de- tails of the work. Mr. Donohoe deals exten- sively in druggists sundries and oflers goods equal to any in the market. Mr. Donohoe is a native of Milford and succeeded Dr. T. H. Mann in business in 1887. He is very well known and highly esteemed in Milford and vi- cinity, where he has gained the confidence of a large number of patrons by his skilful and reliable business methods. 56 LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFORD. P'E. M. Hurlbut, Milford, Mass., nearly op- iposite Hotel Willian, Millinery, also Agent for Madam Grisvvold's Corsets. That good taste shown in the selection of head-wear will go far towards atoning for defects observable in other portions of a lady's costume, is a fact too generally understood to require demonstration, and as this is couceded, it must of course fol- low that the most elaborate costume may be spoiled in eflPect by a hat or bonnet unsuited to its wearer. Therefore the importance of care in ithe choosing of such articles become manifest, and it is easy to understand the popularity of the establishment conducted by Miss K. M. Hurlbut among careful dressers, for not only is the stock of Millinery Goods there carried so large and varied as to enable the most diverse tastes to be suited, but the custom work done is characterized by such good taste and origi- nality as to rank with the productions of city imilliners, while the prices quoted are uni- formly moderate, being within the means of all. Miss E. M. Hurlbut was in business eight years in Vermont previous to establish- ing in Milford in 1889. In addition to the MiHinery line of business. Miss E. M. Hurl- but is Agent for Madam Griswold's Corsets, a •thriving patronage has already been gained, requiring the employment of two competent .assistants during the season. C. A. Sumner, Manufac- turer of Shoe Racks, Boot and Shoe Trees, Crimping Screws and Brakes, Boot and Shoe Forms, Seam Rubbers, Cutting Boards, Crimpers' Sinks, Benches, Steels and other Kit, Boot and Shoe Tree Repairing a Specialty, Milford, Mass. — The enterprise conducted by Mr. C. A. Sumner was inaugu- rated more than a score of years ago, operations having been begun by Messrs. E. Mann & Howard in 1868, (afterward E. Mann & Son) and the pres- ent proprietor has owned and conducted the business since 1879, during which time he has developed the business very largely in every department, and has added that fonnerly carried on by Mr. S. Jefferds, whom he bought out in 1881. Mr. Sumner was born in Mil- ford and is too well, known here to render extended per- sonal mention necessary. The premises utilized by him com- prise one floor having an area of 3000 square feet, and spa- cious storage facilities, and are fitted up with improved special machinery, while employment in busy season is given to eight to twelve workmen. Mr. Sum- ner is a manufacturer of boot and shoe trees, shoe racks, crimping forms, brakes,, screws, etc.. and is prepared to meet all honorable competition both as regards quality and prices. That his LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFOBD. 27 productions have solid merit is evidenced by the fact that they are sold throughout the Uni- ted States, while some foreign trade is also en- joyed. He is the sole manufacturer of the Mann & Howard genuine crimping screws, con- ceeded to be the standard throughout the coun- try, also manufacturing various kinds of crimp •brakes both for boots and shoes. The '■'Howe" boot tree and the "Barnard"' shoe tree are also specialties with Mr. Sumner, as is the repair- ing of boot and shoe trees of all descriptions. He manufactures crimp forms very extensivelj- indeed, together with seam rubbers, turn- ing frames, and crimpers' sinks, benches and steels, and also in small kits of Tarious kinds, quoting bottom prices and filling all orders without delay. In addition to the above Mr. Sumner has during the past two years been engaged in the manufacture of shoe racks, a sample of which is shown on the opp. page, and has by carefully studying the wants of shoe manufacturers in this direction so improved on these goods as to have secured a large trade in them — his shipments going to all parts of the country where shoes are made, and letters are frequently received by him speaking in high terms of his make of racks, and making comparisons with those of other makes, placing Mr. Sumner's far ahead. ._ RfHaskell & Trask, Livery, Feed and Board- ing Stables, First-class Teams at reasonable prices. Transients well cared for, horses for sale and Exchange. 83 Central street, Milford, Mass. — " A merciful man is merciful to his beast " says the proverb, and in no way can mercy be more plainly shown than by taking pains to see that the '' beast " is properly fed and kindly treated. Among the many stables located in this section of the state, which gives special attention to boarding horses we know of none we can more heartily and unreservedly recommend than that conducted by Messrs. Haskill & Trask. This livery, feed and board- ing stable was established by Mr. Amasa L. Smith in 1882, who was succeeded in 1888 by Mr. A. Smith, the present proprietors assum- ing control of the business in 1889. The prem- ises are located at No. 83 Central street, and are well adapted for stable purposes, being well ventilated and under the care of experi- enced hostlers. The firm is composed of Mr. J.F. Haskell who is a native of Pawtucket, R. I., and Mr. H. G. Trask who was born in Nova Scotia. Mr. Haskell has for several years carried on the business of teaming and jobbing in this town and this branch of work will be continued by the firm. They are de- termined to run an establishment second to none and promise that the best of care and personal attention will be paid to " boarders." Haskell & Trask keep a number of horses and carriages for livery purposes and teams for all kinds of jobbing. Also horses for sale and exchange and all patronizing them will feel well suited not only with their prices as they are very reasonable, but also in all their dealings with them. Hotel Willian, Main Street, J. H. Matthews, Proprietor, Special Attention to commercial travelers, Milford, Mass. — Mr. J. H. Matthews has been the proprietor of the Hotel Willian since it was opened in this town, July, 1887. He is a native of Swanzey, N. H., and served nearly three years in the army during our late civil war, and is so very generally known in Milford and throughout this section of the state as to make extended personal mention quite unnecessary. The Hotel Willian has 40 sleeping rooms and there are times when its capacity is severly tested, for the hotel is a great favorite among those most familiar with its management, and is a favorite resort among commercial travelers, as special attention is paid to their wants. This hotel has the well earned reputation of furnishing the best of table board and service, rarely equalled for the prices charged. The service is verj' prompt and courteous and the food well cooked and of the very best quality. To those who wish to be supplied with modern comforts at moderate rates, we can give no better advice than to test the hospitality of the Hotel Willian. The rooms are airy, well lighted and con)fortably furnished. Ten experienced assistants are em- ployed and guests are assured prompt and courteous attention. 28 LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF MILFORD. Avery & Woodbury, Successors to J. W. Harris, Dealers in Furniture, Carpeting, Wall Paper and Curtains, Upholstering, Carpet and Shade Work a Specialty, 162 Main Street, Mil- ford, Mass. — The enormous variety of articles included under the head of furniture, carpet- ing, etc., is not appreciated, save by those who have had experience in furnishing their own houses, but a good idea of the scope of these goods may be obtained by visiting the estab- lishment of Messrs. Avery & Woodbury, loca- ted at No. 162 Main street. The enterprise now under the control of the above named firm was originally founded by Mr. M. Harris who was succeeded by Mr. J. W. Harris, and he by Messrs. Avery & Woodbury in 1887. The es- tablishment maintained by them comprises three floors and a basement each 40 by 80 feet in size and one floor 20 by 80 feet, and the stock carried consists of furniture, carpeting, wall paper and curtains, etc., upholstering, carpet and shade work being a specialty. This house has attained an enviable reputation for furnishing first class goods and work at low rates and deserves the patronage it receives. The individual members of the firm are Mr. Orlando Avery, a native of Penn., and Mr. G. P. Woodbury of Acton, Mass. They are both well known throughout the business circles of Milford, where they are highly esteemed as enterprising and reliable men. R. V. Carey, Architect, No. 200 Main St., Bank Block, Milford, Mass. — A gentleman by no means unknown in the profession once told us that "An architect needs to be something of a draughtsman, considerable of a mathama- tition, somewhat versed in hygiene and sanitary engineering, as well acquainted with house- hold economy as a New England housekeeper, have a knowledge of masonry, building and strength of materials and be a practical car- penter besides other qualifications too numer- ous to mention and then to be possessed of so sweet a disposi- tion as to enable him to receive blame for the errors of others and no approbation for his own success, without a mur- mur." Taking this view of the case it is not to be wondered at that good archi- tects are comparatively scarce, and when found, are sure of constant employment. A gentleman following the pro- fession in Milford, who has met with exceptional success since he began operations, is Mr. E. V. Carey, whose office is located at No. 200 Main street (Bank Block) and is well known about town as one who understands his pro- fession and is on the high road to gain distinction in it. Mr. Cavey is prepared to draw up plans and estimates regard- ing anything in his line of effort and those who have favored him with commissions in the past will testify to his knowledge and skill and practical adaptation of means to ends. He earnestly strives to make his customers' interests his own and satisfy all who may favor him with an order. L. A. Cook, Dealer in Hay, Straw, Brick, Coal, Wcod, Lime and Cement, Calcined Plas- ter, Land Plaster, Phosphate, etc., etc. Yard, Pond Street, near the depot, Milford, Mass. — Mr. L. A. Cook is one of the most enterprising and best known of our local business men, and the undertaking conducted by him is deserv- ing of prominent mention for a number of I reasons, among which is the fact that this was the first coal business ever established in Milford. It has now attained very large pro- portions, but Mr. Cook by no means confines himself to the handling of coal, but deals large- ly in hay, straw, wood, brick, lime, cement, land plaster, calcined plaster, phosphates, etc. Operations were begun by Col. Sumner, and in 1866 Messrs. Putnam & Crosby assumed control, this firm giving place in 1870 to> Messrs. Putnam & Woodbury, who were suc- ceeded in 1874 by Messrs. E. A. & L. A. Cook, the present proprietor assuming sole posses- sion in 1878. He is a native of West Wrentham, Mass., and is very generally known throughout Milford and vicinity. Mr. Cook employes seven assistants, and is prepared to fill the heaviest orders without delay. He carries a very large stock, and utilizes spacious premises^ on Pond Street, near the depot. 'I he storage sheds on the Boston & Albany and New York & New England Eailroads have a total capacity of about 4000 tons, and extensive delivery facilities are also maintained. Wood will be prepared to order for family use at very short notice, and positively bottom prices are quoted on all the commodities handled. LEAIVG BUSmESS MEN OF MIL FORD. 29 H. D. Bowker, Clothier and Hatter, Hale's Block, Main Street, Milford, Mass. — Once in a while we read in a novel, of a man who is quite independent of outward adornment and who looks like a gentleman no matter how he may be dressed. This is a great world and there may be such individuals to be found among its inhabitants, but we are free to confess that we have never been so lucky as to see one. Shab- by and unfashionable garments are apt to cause their wearer to create an unfavorable impression, and no niau is so independent of the opinion of his fellows, that he can afford to be indifferent to it. There is work of course which should be done in old clothes, and there are times when such garments are more appro- priate than handsome clothing, but under ordi- nary circumstances every man owes it to him- self to be well dressed. Under present condi- tions the expense of so doing is very moderate. Visit the establishment conducted by Mr. H. D. Bowker, located in Hale's Block, Main street. and see if this statement is not in accordance with the facts. You will find there, fash- ionable clothing, well made of durable materi- al, and perfect in fit, at prices that would have been regarded(and justly so)below the cost of production not many years ago, and you will also find stiff and soft hats, gents furnishing, horse clothing:, trunks, bags, etc., at equally low figures. This enterprise was inaugurated in 1869 by Mr. W. H. Gile under the style of W. H. Gile & Co. In 1887 Mr. H. D. Bowker was admitted to the firm and the business was carried on under the name of Gile & Bowker, until 1889 when Mr. Bowker assumed sole con- trol. The extensive retail trade transacted by this house requires the services of four competent assistants, and callers are assured immediate and courteous attention, and the purchaser not only spends but little money, but may depend upon having goods represented to him just as they actually are. HOPKDALE. This is the^seat^or[theTmost [famous of Milford' s manufactories, and the history^of^ this -community is of special interest, it having been founded in 1842 by the Hopedale community, the members of which thought that the time was ripe for a new departure from existing ways of conducting human affairs Their scheme, although beautiful in theory, proved abortive in practice, and, for reasons which could not justly be presented within our limited space, the Factory of Geo. Draper & Sons, Hopedale. unitary arrangements were given up in 1856. As a recent writer has well said of Hopedale, ''it has been a seminary of inventors, and may now without extravagance be called a miniature university of ingenious patent lore." Cot- ton and woolen machinery is very extensively manufactured, and the factories devoted to its production, together with those utilized for other purposes, are among the most perfectly equipped in the world. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF HOPEDALE, MASS. George Draper & Sons, Manufacturers of Cotton Machinery, Hopedale, Mass.— ''The continued success of the textile industries of this country depends upon the abiliiy of manu- facturers to produce fabrics of the .n>s« quality. This result can only be accomplished by the use of the best machinery, and the adoption of all labor-saving improvements." Such is the rule laid down by Messrs. George Draper&Sons, and they have done and are doing much to make the practical application of it a compara- tively easy matter by manufacturing textile machinery, which embodies the very latest improvements, and is unsurpassed both for efficiency of design and thoroughness of con- struction. This concern are among the largest manufacturers of cotton machinery in the country, and head the list as regards the intro- duction of patented improvements on such ap- paratus, some of the more prominent of the de- vices they have put on the market being the Sawyer and the Rabbeth spindles, double ad- justable rings, separators, bobbin holders and temples. That these are genuine, and, indeed, invaluable improvements, is proved by the fact that they have been universally adopted in this country, and to a great extent in Europe, while the saving they make in the cost of production has so reduced the priceof many textile fabrics as to have greatly increased the demand for them by consumers, and also by materially im- proving the quality of the product. The firm act as selling agents for the Hopedale Machine Company, Dutcher Temple Company, and Saw- yer Spindle Company. Prices will be promptly sent on application, and all business communi- cations are assured immediate attention. The individual members of the firm are Messrs. Wm. F. Draper, Geo. A. Draper, Eben S. Draper, Wm. F. Draper, Jr., and Geo. Otis Draper. Hopedale Elastic Fabric Co., Hopedale, Mass. — The manufacture of elastic fabrics con- stitutes what is in many respects not only a distinctive but a unique industry. The Hope- dale Elastic Fabric Co., was incorporated in 1886, with a capital of $150,000. Mr. W. F. Draper is president and Mr. E. L. Osgood treasurer, the enterprise being conducted under the direct management of Mr. Wm. Lapwoith. The company manufacture elastic webbing of all descriptions in both silk and cotton, but make a specialty of fancy patterns in narrow goods, and goring. Their productions are uni- versally known among the trade, being dis- tributed to all parts of the country and having an enviable reputation for uniform excellence, while they are furnished at prices which en- able all honorable competition to be easily met. The company owns many patents on fancy patterns, special weaves and improve- ments in the machinery. The factory is brick three stories in height, run by steam power and lighted by electricity. A spur track from the railroad runs by it on one side and the mill river on the other making a very convenient location. Hopedale Machine Company, Hopedale, Mass. — The Hopedale Machine Company was incorporated in 1867, and holds a leading posi- tion among the great industrial enterprises which have so intimately connected the history of the village with that of the development of textile machinery in this country. The com- pany has a capital of f 200,000, and operates one of the most complete and best-arranged plants of the kind in the Union, their beings such facilities at hand as to enable machine work of the finest grades to be turned out at short notice. The manufacture of twisters, warpers, spoolers and spindles is extensively carried on, and a most important department of the business is the doing of general repair work, experienced and careful men being em- ployed, and orders being assured immediate- attention. The Hopedale Machine Company's foundry is the largest and best-equipped to be found in this section, and the superior charac- ter of the results attained here has very much to do with the high reputation the products of the entire establishment enjoy. Employment is given to three hundred men, and the business is so thoroughly systematized and each process so intelligently supervised that the sending out of defective work is rendered almost im- possible. The high speed at which textile ma- chinery is run nowadays makes thoroughness of construction fully as important as excel- lence of design, and thus serves to still further commend the productions of this old-estab- lished company. The position of agent is held by Mr. G. A. Draper, Mr. W. F. Draper acting as treasurer. Dutcher Temple Company, Hopedale, Mass. — It is doubtless true that one should be- an experienced mechanic or manufacturer in order to really appreciate the perfection of the- plant utilized by the Dutcher Temple Com- pany, and particularly of that to be found in the machine shop. The company was incor- porated in 1867, and has a capital of $100,000, Mr. W. F. Draper being President and Mr. F. J. Dutcher, Treasurer. With the development of the enterprise, the mechanical facilities- have been constantly increased and improved, and the consequence is that, leaving the pecu- liar importance of the product out of the ques- tion, the works are well worthy of prominent mention as being in many respects a model es- tablishment, the machine shop having an equipment which is not surpassed anywhere in point of completeness. Loom temples of every description are manufactured, together with Shaw knitting machines and general tool work, and a sufficient force of assistants is employed to enable all orders to be filled at short notice. Messrs. Geo. Draper & Sons act as selling agents for the company, and the- product is shipped to all parts of this country and also to South America and Mexico. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF HOPED ALE. 31 Hopedale Machine Screw Company, Hopedale, Mass. — The most recently establish- ed, and one of the most promising of the indus- trial enterprises carried on in this village, is that conducted by the Hopedale Machine Screw Company, which was incorporated in 1888, with a capital of $150,000. So extensive is the business which has been already built up that the manufacturing facilities are soon to be ma- terially increased, although the present plant of automatic machinery of a type, exclusively controlled by the company, is capable of turn- ing out an immense quantity of machine sci'ews of all grades and varieties, accurately made in every part, and adapted to all the many pur- poses for which such screws are employed. The company makes a leading specialty of goods for electrical corporations, and the re- markable demand now existing in all parts of the country for electrical appliances, together with the positive surety that this demand will continue to increase for many years to come, renders it safe to predict a ready and perma- nent market for the productions of a concern 80 well-equipped for furnishing articles of standard quality at the shortest possible no- tice and at the lowest market rates. Besides machine screws of all descriptions, the com- pany manufacture turned work in steel, brass, copper and zinc, having unsurpassed facilities for filling such orders in the most satisfactory manner. Mr. W. F. Drayer is president, Mr. G. A. Draper officiating as treasurer. The Superintendent, Mr. C. F. Roper, is also the inventor of the special machinery used, and the excellence of the products may be traced to his efficiency and management. Hopedale Ice Company, Hopedale, Mass. — The old idea that all ice must necessarily be pure, or in other words that the process of freezing absolutely eliminated all impurities from even the most objectionable water, has been placed among the many other fallacies which have worked such general injury in the past, and every intelligent person now realizes that the ice supply no less than the water sup- ply is worthy of the most painstaking scrutiny on the part of those who value their health and appreciate the danger of taking into the system the insidious disease germs which ice made from contaminated water necessarily contains. It is unquestionably far more health- ful to do without ice at all than to use that obtained from an improper source, but happily the residents of this section are not obliged to choose either alternative, for the Hopedale Ice Company is prepared to furnish planed ice of unequalled purity in such quantities as to en- able the needs of all classes of consumers to be successfully catered to. This ice is taken from a pond made by damming the the mill river, which above this point flows through an unsettled district and consequently escapes all chance of contamination. The most improved facilities are utilized in the harvesting of the ice, including an efficient steam plant used in housing it, and sufficient storage capacity is provided to enable a very heavy stock to be laid away, thus assuring the satisfactory fill- ing of all orders. Mr. W. H. Barney is man- ager of the company, and no trouble is spared to make the service as entirely satisfactory as- is the product itself. Prank H. French, Jeweler, Harrison Block, Hopedale, Mass. — Mr. Frank H. French is a native of Gilmantown, N. H., and came to Hopedale some fifteen years ago. He was in> the employ of Messrs. George Draper & Sons for many years, but for a long time has de- voted his spare moments to the doing of watch repairing, etc., in which he has become very expert, having an experience extending over a score of years to guide him. Mr. French opened his present store in Harrison Block, in November, 1889, and his success has been pro- nounced from the very first, as he is almost universally known in this vicinity, and his straightforward methods have won for him many friends and customers. The premisea^ utilized compi-ise a corner room up one flight, lighted from two sides, and most admirably adapted to the purposes for which they are- used. They contain a carefully chosen stock of watches, clocks, jewelry, silverware, fancy goods, etc., which includes the latest fashion- able novelties, and is so varied as to enable all tastes and all purses to be easily suited. Spec- tacles, eye glasses and optical goods in gener- al are also largely dealt in, and repairing of all descriptions will be neatly and durably done at moderate rates. Fashionable and commercial stationary is handled quite extensively, as are newspapers and periodicals, subscriptions be- ing received at publisher's rates. Mr. French has put in a commodious Morris & Ireland fire and burglar proof safe, both for the purpose of protecting his stock and of safely storing the valuable watches, etc., belonging to his cus- tomers and left with him to be repaired. He guarantees satisfaction to the most critical in this important department of his business, and is fully competent to undertake the I'epairing of the most delicate time-keepers. L. A. Lamson, Pharmacist, Harrison Block, Hopedale, Mass. — The residents of Hopedale and vicinity are to be congratulated on having such an establishment available as that conducted by Mr. L. A. Lamson, in Harrison Block; first, because it is one of the most elegantly equip- ped pharmacies in the state, and second, be- cause the proprietor is exceptionally well-fit- ted to undertake the duties of a dispensing chemist, he having taken a four years' course in the Burlington Medical College, and subse- quently been identified with the retail drug business for more than a score of years. Mr. Lamson was born in Stowe, Vt., and enlisted in the army in 1863, at which time he had not yet reached the age of 16. He served until the close of the war, and afterwards took the col- lege course we have referred to ; subsequently passing three years in the drug business in Putney, Vt., thirteen years in Hinsdale, N. H., and more than four years in Milford, Mass., finally coming to Hopedale in 1890. The prem- ises utilized were fitted up especially for Mr. Lamson's occupancy, and are elegantly finished in mahogany, the most improved facilities for the display and storage of the goods being 32 LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF HOPED ALE. provided, and ample room being available to accommodate a very heavy and varied stock ; the store measuring 19 x 55 feet, and being connected with a basement of similar dimen- sions. The exceptional opportunities oflFered are taken full advantage of, the assortment of drugs, medicines and chemicals being remark- ably complete in every department, and being made up exclusively of fresh goods, selected from the most reliable sources, thus putting Mr Lamson in a position to satisfactorily compound prescriptions of all kinds. Drug- gists' sundries, toilet articles and fancy goods are also well represented in the stock, and a fine line of pure confectionery and of choice imported and domestic cigars is carried. Street, — Hopedale. Andrew Bros., Dealers in Boots, Shoes and Rubbers, Gents' Furnishing Goods and Children's Underwear; Hopedale, Mass. — This new enterprise commenced business in Decem- ber, 1889, in Harrison Block, and bids fair to become one of the "institutions" of this thriv- ing town. The firm is composed, as indicated by the firm-name, of two brothers — Almon H. and Charles H. Andrew. The former was born in Whitinsville, Mass., and the latter in R. I. They have a fine, well lighted store of the dimensions of 20x60 feet, and is well stocked with a carefully chosen assortment of men's, boys', ladies' and girls' boots, shoes and rub- bers of all grades and styles, suited to all kinds of service. This is also headquarters for gents' furnishing goods and children's underwear. A good assortment in each of the above lines will be found here, at prices that cannot help but be appreciated by the most economic buyer, who is not only willing " to live," but to " let live." The "trade creed" of this firm is: 1. No more than proper value for anything. 2. Less than usual price for many things. 3. Whatever is best to be had, we have. 4. Whatever way gives best satisfaction to our patrons, we practice. 5. No misrepresenta- tions ; we sell goods for what they are. 6. Our one-price system fully protects our custo- mers. 7. All goods marked in plain figures. 8. We make our customers' interest our own. 9. Our aim is to lead, not to follow. 10. The latest novelties, newest styles, lowest prices. 11. To give the best satisfaction, and have the best patronage. With the . principles of trade above indicated adhered to, the people of Hopedale and vicinity will consult their best interests by giving this new enterprise a just share of their patronage. Messrs. Andrew Bros, also have the agency for custom-made clothing and are prepared to take measurements and show a fine line of samples from which to select, and guarantee a perfect fit, and at prices that afford a large per cent, of saving upon ordinary custom-made work. They also employ a competent assistant to attend to the repairing of boots and shoes, as well as the making of first class custom work. LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF HOPED ALE. 33 Smith & Mead, Dealers in Groceries and Dry Goods, Fine Teas, Coffees and Spices, Specialties. Hopedale, Mass. — The establish- ment conducted by Messrs. Smith & Mead can perhaps be best described as a " family supply store " for it contains a very heavy stock of just such goods as are needed in every family ; this class of trade being especially catered to. Business was begun in 1887, and the magnitude of the patronage enjoyed shows that the methods here practised are such as appeal to the large majority of purchasers. The firm is made up of Messrs. F. E. Smith and J. L. Mead, the former a native of Dover, Mass.. and tlie latter of Milford. Mr. Smith served in the army during the rebellion, and both he and his partner are well and favorably known in this vicinity personally. The stock on hand is remarkably complete in every depart- ment and comprises as fine a line of fancy and staple groceries as is shown at many a preten- tious city establishment. Fine teas, coffees and spices are specialties with this house, and the most fastidious can obtain goods precisely suited to their tastes, while the prices quoted are as low as those too often named on far inferior articles. Foreign and domestic dry goods and also well represented in the stock, not only full lines of staple products but also the latest fashionable novelties being offered to select from. An important department of the business is that devoted to the handling of meats, vegetables, fruits, etc., special pains being taken to provide so wide a variety that all tastes and all purses can be suited. Em- ployment is given to five competent assistants, and one of the most commendable and pop- ular features of the management is the equal courtesy which is extended to all buyers, large or small purchases being shown similar con- sideration and all being given everv opportu- nity to choose intelligently and satisfactorily. J. E. VoUmer, House and Carriage Painter, Shop west of common, So. Framingham, Mass. — Of course, "anybody can paint a house." So can anybody make a suit of clothes — after a fashion — but that fashion is apt to be much more striking than attractive. The fact is, in painting as in everything else, skill and expe- rience are necessary in ordei to secure satisfac- tory results. It pays every time to have paint- ing done by competent and responsible parties, and those who think to save a dollar by doing the work themselves or by entrusting it to somebody who knows no more about it than they do, may save that dollar but it will only be at the expense of manj'^ another in the long run. It does not cost much to have painting properly done, and in this connection we may call attention to the facilities possessed by Mr. J. E. Vollmer, for he not only does work equal to the best but also quotes moderate rates on every order. Mr. Vollmer is prepared to do House and Carriage Painting of all descriptions and uses no inferior stock, as indeed may be judged from his reputation for turning out thoroughly dependable work. His shop is lo- cated west of the common, and orders given in person or sent by mail will be given immediate and painstaking attention. Mr. Vollmer claims to have invented an embossing oil for restoring old paint (providing the paint is still there) to its original color and warrants the same to hold eight years, and hold its luster, it is ex- clusively for outside work. Sign Work of all descriptions is done on wood, glass or any sub- stance, interior decorating, paper hanging in all its branches are -promptly attended to at moderate rates, wall and ceiling papers are carried in stock, and sold at lowest market rates. Mr. Vollmer has done first-class jobs not only in Framingham but in the surround- ing towns and gives by consent the following references : A. R. Newton