,,5 U <5 N'<- f^ ^ ■% .<^' A \0 'S^ S> ^' ^^^ >^^^ ',■ nO<=.. .^•^ -C-, N"<=- ^^-^-n.^ •■'^ .^^' .->• >:, A"* ,° .:C^.^^ •^ 4 ■y, (.^' ^ 'o 0' -'^x. ,<^^ « •*> .;*" N ( >^_ V ■"o 0^' ^ ■■'' <\^ ^^ '"-'> ■^ ' % / ■"^ .#• ,0 o^ aV^' •- nS> ■'^.. ^^ ^^ ■'^ -.. ^^^^ #^ V, CO -$^ ■% '^. ^^ ^'-^-^^'^ H. ^' .^•^ •% DETROIT N ^Iisi isTORY AND ( Commerce ^_ ^:^- A CAREFUL COMPILATION OF THE HISTORY, MERCANTILE AND MANUFACTURING INTERESTS OF DETROIT ; ILLUSTRATED WITH VIEWS OF THE CITY'S PRINCIPAL STREETS, POINTS OF INTEREST. PROMINENT BUILDINGS AND PORTRAITS OF ITS NOTED BUSINESS MEN. PUBLISHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE MERCHANTS' AND MANUFACTURERS' EXCHANGE AND SANCTION OF THE DETROIT BOARD OF TRADE. ROGERS & THORPE, Publishers, DETROIT, MICH. I 8c) I . ^'='- Entered according to Act of Concress, in the year 1891, by Rogers & Thorpe, IN THE office OF THE LIBRARIAN OF CONGRESS, AT WASHINGTON, D. C. C\^ \' "J Ap \^ PREFACE TO DETROIT IN HISTORY. '"TIME'S mutilating hand has left of the early settlements at Detroit hut few -'- remains. The wheels of the mighty car of progress have rolled over and obliterated all traces save the printed word, the sacred relic, and the inherited trait and name of its original founders, who, under the Fleur de Hs of France, landed here with Cadillac on the eventful 24th of July, 1701. The incidents which more particularly emphasize the history of Detroit, are in this work briefly recorded, the information incident thereto having been derived from an examination of veracious authorities. Of these, "Charlevoix's History of New France," " Rameau's History of the Canadian Colony in Detroit," "Ramsay's Life of Pontiac," and "Legends of Detroit," by Mrs. Marie C. W. Hamlin, bearing upon the former periods of the city's history, have been con- sulted. The subsequent narration has been evolved principally from official documents and interviews with the older inhabitants, whose reminiscences constitute a fitting sequel to this history, as depicted in their own language. . The publishers have spared no effort or expense to make it, as it is con- fidently believed the public will recognize it to be, the best of its kind in typography and illustrative essentials ever previously published. As a reliable source from which may be derived information concerning the history of the city from its nucleus as a French trading post to its culmina- tion into the grand commercial emporium of to-day, it will materially contribute to advance its interests by citing the records of the best exemplars of its prosperity and prominence. The author has, in the compilation of this history, sought only for the facts which, of themselves, represent the chief incidents herein narrated, and which are always the true foundations of accurate information. JAMES J. MITCHELL Detroit, Michigan, April 10, 1891. (11)1 jJa}jci on which this book is printed was made especiaily for it bv john 8. price & co. Office, 123 Jefferson Ave., Detroit. XI)C ]JI)OtClt\lHl})l)Li FROM WHICH THE MAJORITY OF THESE ENGRAVINGS WERE MADE ARE BY J. W. Hughes, 274 Woodward Ave., Detroit. WAS DONE BV THE DETROIT HERALD OF COMMERCE, 40, 42 & 44 LaRNED St. «EST. WAS EXECUTED BY RayNOR & TayLOH. 96, 98 &. 100 BaTES SiHEET, DETROIT. Detroit in History. ■ «-» MONG the great cities of the United States which are historically prominent, as having atforded to the annals of that country many of its most thrilling incidents and important events, Detroit is especially worthy the faithful narration which its character in these relations essentially demands. "True historyshould be nolesssacredthan religion,"' wrote Louis Napoleon in the preface to his famous "Life of Julius Cresar," and the correct transcription from the records which , exist of Detroit's foundation from the f arliest periods, as well as the progress the city has made to the present time in all vital inter- ests, should be too much the pride and honor of the historian to be lightly or inaccurately touched upiiti. Justice compels an adher- ence to the facts, and as they havi? been handed down by the progenitors of those who are to-day responsible curators and sponsors of its commercial strength and advancing fortunes, so are they reprepented in this work. Detroit possesses a truly remarkable historj-, as well as having been among the first establishments which constituted ihe subsequent Northwest Territory, as being the scene of numerous conflicts between the red man and his more puissant lival and the various struggles for domination by the French, English and United States soldiery. The site of the present city at the date of the discovery of the country by Columbus in 1492, was an Indian hamlet or collection of wigwams, which imperfectly corresponded with a village as understood in tlie English language. Prior to the inhabitation of the American Continent b)' the stoical children of the forest, coming doubtless from Asia, the footprints and monuments of anotherand totally different race, extinct through some dire calamity, or from some undiscoverable cause, were left behind as the only traces of their jjrior occupation of the vast domain now the abode of more than sixty million Caucasians. This singular people, identified in the consideration of the earth's inhabitants as mound builders, from the remains of their creations still existent in many parts of the country, had an abode upon the location of Detroit, as here have been found unmistakable evidences in their curious mounds of earth, beneath which were entombed the various articles necessitated by the demands of their existence in pans and pots and other culinary and domestic utensils and implements of warfare. History and even tradition is silent upon the subject ; only the crude evidences that exist of these iirehistoric people, as giving them the claim to characterization as a nation, supplying a foundation. But the Indians lived and moved and had their being in the space now dignified by the French Ville d' Etroit (town of the Strait) ; and where now the intellect and grace of the white man direct and jjovern. the red man's war wlioop rang defiance, and the light of his wigwam shed its lurid gla:-e upon the scenes but slightly changed since the primeval morn. The site of the present City of Detroit was first visited by the French in 1610, and continued, as did the entire lake country of the present United States, under the rule of the French government until 1763. The first actual settlement by the French at Detroit was made by Cadillac, July 24, 1701, from which time dates its existence as among the important trading posts of what was designated as the Northwest Territory, and its initial identity as tlie foundation of the city. It is most appropriate in this connection to record tlie prin- cipal events in the life and career of Antoine Laumet de la Molhe Cadillac, the founder of Detroit, and whose name is appropriately memorialized in its streets and public buildings. This distinguished individual among the host of adventurers that, early in the eighteenth century, sought fame and fortune amid the wilds of America, was ushered into existence at Toulouse, capital of the department of the Hante-Garonne in Southern France, in 1001. His parents were Jean Cadillac and Jeanne Malenfant, notable person- ages of that district, who gave their son a liberal education, fitting hiui for tlie military service which he entered at the early age of sixteen, becoming at twenty-one, a lieutenant. Arriving at Quebec with the regiment in which he was commissioned, he became ac()sing in the city. Two streets. Saint Anne and Saint Louis, were outlined and ujion them were built barracks for the soldiers and rude dwellings of hewn logs. The foundations were thus laid of Le VUle (V Etruit, the town of the Strait, by reason of its location upon the river called by the French a strait, as being the connecting link between Lakes Erie and St. Clair. It has since been known as the Detroit river. The settlement was re-inforced from time to time by accessions of inhabitants from various directions, and by births, the register of St. Anne's Chin-ch exhibiting from 1704 to 1707 an average annual rate of fourteen. The first grant of land was made by Cadillac to Jean Fafard, who ac- companied the ex- pedition to Detroit as an interpreter, March 10th, 1707. This lot adjoined Cadillac's posses- sions and Fafard was formally invested with his right and title by "Nonxieur du Detroit," as Cad- illac was styled, in the presence of a multitude of people, to wlioni a transfer of real estate was ;i matter of great im- portance and inter- est. The residence occupied by ( 'adillac was on Jetferson avenue, near where now stands the old Cam))au liomestead, and was at that day considered some- ,on its blue waters the moving spirit of its great progressive and commer- cial identity. Among the first marriages registered in Saint Anne's Church was that of Francois Fafard, otherwise known as Delorme, the famous interpreter, who followed Cadillac to Detroit, and Barbe Loisel, the relic of Francois Gautier, Sieur de la Vallee Rancee, a distinguished soldier of the French army, who came to his death in 1710. De La Forest, who succeeded Cadillac, remaining at Quebec, the Uurons, Ottawas and the other Indian tribes, subjects of the French power, ab- sent upon expedi- tions of hunting, and the fort at De- troit garrisoned with but a few men under the tempor- ary command of Du Buisson, the cupid- ity of the English, for some time ex- cited toward the more advantageous French settlements, was at this juncture preciiiitated by the Fo.x Indians, who came under the direction of the English to capture Fort Pontchartrain. These daring child- ren of the forest daily hovered arnuiul the fort, watching an oppor- tunity to accom- -^te*-^' -^ii^f;^: .,-j?S^j plish their purpose, but so alert were Du Buisson and his faithful little garrison that help arrived in a large force of Hurons, Pottawotomies, Sacs, Illinois, Osages and Missouris, who fell upon the Foxes and put them to rout with great slaughter. The village grew apace, and in 1731 a council of the Unions, the Iroquois, the Ottawas and the Pottawotomies, met here iii response to the demand of Alplionse de Tonty, Baron de Pahnle, tlie commander of Fort Pontchartrain, to he;ir pronounced tlio edict that henceforth no more "fire water" would be sold to them. This was received with loud dissent, but the law of prohibition was rigidly enforced for some years afterward. After the terrible repulse of the Foxes by Du Buisson in 1713 and their defeat again in 1717, Fort Pontchar- train was not further assaulted until 1746, when the noted chieftain, Pontiac. with his people, contributed in defending it. In the six years from 1749 to 17't't Detroit so enlarged its iiupulalion under the Canadian bounty act to influence immigration that the fort was enlarged, to admit of better ]iiei)arations for defence against British and Indian incursions. About tliis time a large number of refugees from Nova Scotia and Lower Canada, to tscapo the continual war- fare between the French and English, found an asylum in Detroit. In 17()() Canada was Ceded by the French to the English, following which ciine the surrender of Detroit, November 2fltli of the same year, the articles of capitulation being signed by De Bellestre, DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. commanilei- of Fort Pontcharti-ain, yielding Detroit to the English government represented by Major Robert Rogers. Detroit was now under British domination, but already were brewing the elements of a conflict tliat would fleck its once quiet and peaceful streets with blood. Pontiac, the famous cliief of the Ottawas, by whose assistance Fort Pontchartrain had been protected some years before fi'om the fury of hostile tribes, allies of the English, true to his allegiance to tlie French, tliree years after, conceived tlie daring plan of surprising and slaynig the garrison. His influence with his own tribe extended to his allies; generally to the Indians of the Northwest, and even to the far distant Delawares on the eastern side of the continent. All of these Indian tribes Were bitterly hostile to the English and ready to glut their vengeance upon tlieni at the slightest instigation. Tlie English had ever treated them with neglect and contemptuous disregard, while tlie French had been kind and generous. In tlie summer of 1761, Captain Campbell, following May. Tlie Indian tribes thus brought into a league embraced, with an insignificant few excepted, the entire Algonquin nation, with whom co-operated the Wyandots, tlie Senecas and various tribes along tlie Mississippi. With the usual taciturnity of their race, tlie Indians effectually disarmed suspicion, although several times on the eve of being detected. Notwithstanding the treaty of peace, signed at Paris, February 10th, 1763, by which France agreed to relinquisli all of her interest to the country lying nustward of the Mississippi river, and which it was tliought would appease the ire of the savages, they unremittingly continued their preparations for an outbreak against the English. The wily Pontiac hoped still for aid from the French, and when it did not come, he gathered his faithful band around him and iirecipitated the attack uixm Detroit, which was kept in a state of seige from May 8, 1763, to August 26, 1764, being closely invested and the scene of almost daily battles. Among these encounters, in which the Indians were for a VIEW FROM TOP OF HAMMOND BUILDING, commandant of the English garrison at Detroit, was notified of tlie recent appearance among the Wyandots of a band of Senecas, whose object was to incite them to surprise and murder him and his garri- son. Investigation discovered that this design of the Indians was not limited to Detroit, but was intended to include Niagara, Fort Pitt and other important posts. By the prompitude of Campbell in warning the commanders of the proposed attack, the plan of the Indians was abandoned. In 1763, during the summer, a project of like import was discovered and rendered abortive, but toward the end of the same year, Pontiac sent out his emissaries to the various tribes hostile to the English, urging them to war. Everywhere they were received with great favor and without a dissenting voice. The general verdict was to "dig up the hatchet" and fall upon the Eng- lish, to drive them from the lands that had been wrested from them and which their propliets had predicted would be restored to them. It was understood that the decisive steps would be taken in the time the victors, the sanguinary battle of "Bloody Run." fought July 31, 1763, was most disastrous to the English the casualties being, in killed, eighteen men, counting Captain Dalzell, the com- mandant of Fort Pontchartrain, three prisoners and thirty-eight wounded. The only relict of the scene of tliis encounter is the A'st decaying trunk of a whitewood tree still to be seen in the grounds upon which are located the present Michigan Stove Works, the little stream, which was long afterward knownas "Bloody Run," being lost amid the footsteps of progress. Reinforcements brought by Colonel Bradstreet in August, 1764. repelled the Indians, and in the following year peace was established by a treaty with Pontiac, Captain George Croghan acting for the English. The various dissensions and troubles growing out of the numerous conflicts with the Indians and the English occupancy conspired to drive away from Detroit many of its original inhabi- tants, or their progeny, so that the population at the time of the DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, peace of 1764 had been greatly reduced. In the succeeding years, however, accessions of inhabitants from Canada and the States were constantly made until the close of the American Kevolution in 1783, when Detroit came into ijossession of the United States, but only nominally, the virtual year of control by the American government being 17i»«. Michigan continued as a part of the Northwest TeiTi- torv from 17h7, under the governorship of General St. Clair, and from 1803 was included in the Indiana Territory, becoming, in 1805, the Tciiitciry of Michigan, of which Hull was governor, who, as com- manilant of Detroit in the war of 1K12, yielded it to the EngUsh on the l.^th of August of that year. On September 2i)th, 1813. Detroit was re-cai>tured by the American forces under Col. McArthur, and the gi)vernment of the Territory of Michigan was vested in Col. Lewis Cass from 1813 to 1831, under which it greatly improved in the relations of treaties with the Indians, the building of roadways, and in many other directions for sesuring its admission as a state into the Union. Anthony Waynes victory over the Indians in August, 1794, it should be stated, gave the United States its first actual control over Detroit and the adjacent country. The old Detroit and its French associations were almost obliterated by the fire of IHWJ ; however, even to the present day, is preserved by the descendants of tho.«e who were its first founders, much of the pristine significance conferred by the colonists who, under Cadillac and his successors under the crown of France, gave it a name, and the nucleus from which has spiung the granf lime and its relentless decrees. Emerging from the devasting wars and the great fire, Detroit began to take its place among the risi ing cities of the Unit- ed States, as one of woodward avent the more remarkable of %\hich it holds consi)icuous po.sition and a commercial iiniiortanco exceeded by but few in the country. To tra<'e its onward moves from tlie period of its restoration as a part of the United States becomes now the province of this work. Dating from the period when it became actually ceded to the United States by the treaty of 1783, Detroit began to assume, from its favorable geographical position, an important consideration as a mart of traffic and one of the leading commercial emporiums on the great lakes. Here were undertaken great enterprises, and of such a char- acter as to invest the city with the strotigest claims to prominence as containing the elements of enterprise and progress. Having passed, but not unscathed, througli the ]ierils of its colonization by the French, through the disasters of Indian invasion and British occupancy; through Iiorrible ma.ssacre and devastating conllagra- tion, Detroit emerged from its trials witli the seal of progress stamped upon it, which it has since well and wortluly borne. No cily of the United States, perhaps, possesses more of the elements of romance and none can furnish a history more replete with thrilling incidents. The Michigan Territory was wrested from British control by Perry's victory over the British fleet in Lake Erie Septendier 10th, 1813. Detroit was soon afterwards restored to the United States and a body tif Kiiilucky troops garrisoned Fort Pont- chartrain, which thenceforward became Fort Shelby, ia honor of Governor Shelby who commanded them, which name itretained until torn dov. n by the encroachments of the city's progress. Its tite will be oc-cupii'd by tlie si)lendid government building now in process of erection. Detroit skuvly increased in population, the records show- ing in 1827, 2,1.'J3 inhabitants; in 1S37, 8.273, and in 18."j2, 26,648. From this period it advanced rapidly in this regard, the census of 18.80 giving it a population of ll.'j,006, which in 1890 liad increased to considerably above 200.000. Michigan under its territorial government began to awaken from its lethargy and to assume the direction and control of its resources, which were toeventuale in making a state distinguished for the enterprise and progress of its people. Immigration from the earlier settled East, hithertoretarded, now began to pour in. Lake navigation, inaugurated in 1819 by the first steamboat, the " Walk-in-the- Water." furnished an impetus to l)rogres3 and a vehicle of traffic since so abundantly realized, and which has been so prolific a source of industry and general com- merce. Detroit shared so abundantly in these elements of advance- ment as to have been constituted an important shipping port. In 1819 the city is said to have had two hundred and fifty houses and a population of about fourteen hundred, irrespective of its military in garrison. Detroit, by its earlier chroniclers, is said to be imder a heavy l7 miles of pipes, connecting with two principal mains from the pumping station, and atlording wlien selves amid its sylvan glades, through which run canals of pellucid water bearing upon its bosom a multitude of boats, laden with their argosy of laughing lassies and their sturdy gallants who ply the oars. Nature has here, aided by art in varied attractions, established a respite from labor and the cares of business, and is a source of recreation eagerly accejited by the throngs of visitors who during the heat of summer have thrown around them its charms of wood- land and water scenery. The history of the civil war recounts the valor of Detroit's soldier}-, perpetuated in an imposing monument on its Campus Martins, where also stands a fountain donated by the late John J. Bagley, and a bronze statue of that eminent citizen, a gift to the city from a popular subscription. The City Hall, a large and imposing structure, fronts upon the Campus Martins with entrances on CJriswold and Fort streets and Michigan avenue. In the lawn in front are two of the cannon captured in Perry's victory on Lake Erie, interesting souvenirs of that great historic event culminating in the restoration of Detroit to I'LBLIl' LIUKAKV. required a daily supply of 20,000,000 gallons, although as large a quantity as .'il, 000,000 gallons have been pumped tlirough the con- duits. The value of the city water works property in January, 1800, was represented by $;i,4U),910, to which, in 1801, £.t least $:!00,- 000 in improvements has been added. Detroit justly ranks with the larger metropolitan cities of the United States in its excellent equiii- ment t)f municipal accessories, and presents in its government the most eflicient and the most salutary administration. Or.e of the most interesting of tlie many and varied ])oints of attraction in and around the city is llie grand natural park of Belle Isle. It is located near tlio source of tlic Detroit river and, as its name imiilies, is an isl nd. It embraces 070 acres and is the property of the city, having been i>urcliased by it in 1S79 for $300,000. The improvements since made thereon and the cost of its conduct aggre- gate $300,000, exclusive of the bridge by which it is connected with the main land and which cost $:!00,000. Belle Isle commands in summer a daily resort for many thousands of people, and is especi- ally the delight of the children, who romp and heartily enjoy tliem- the United States. The City Hall is surmounted by a tower from whicli a fine view of the city, the river and the Canadian hamlets opposite can be obtained. The press of Detroit, elsewhere treated of in this work, has able representatives, and notably in the Detroit Free Press, tlie Tribune, niorning dailies, and the Evcuiiiij yewx, Journal, Sun and Times, of afternoon issue, and all except the Journal and Times liaving Sunday editions. Detroit is i)roininent among tlie great cities of the United States as having, for its size, the hirgi'st luuiiber of iiiillioiuiires, who have generally greatly cuntributed lo the city's endowment of capital in iiuiiierous enterprises. The new government building, now in process of erection on the site of old Fort Shelby, corner of Fort and Shelby streets, will be when completed one of the most magnificent structures of the kind in the country. The Detroit Museum of Art, thrown open to the public Septem- ber 1, 1887, is a splendid building of the Gothic order of architecture. DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 1 1 and cost |I56,385.44, The repository of tlie fine art lias receiitlj' been enriched by donations of rare and costly paintings by Mr. James E. Scripps and a large collection of Japanese curios and works of art by Mr. Frederick Stearns, gentlemen intimately associated with Detroit's greater enterprises. This liistory cannot more appropriately be concluded than by the statement that the trust expressed in the motto gracing the city's municipal shield "let us hope that better things will arise from the ashes," has in its present identity been abundantly verified- Reminisences of Jacob S. Farrand. A few weeks before his death the late Jacob S. Farrand gave the following narrative to the publishers of this book. It is printed verbatum, in his own peculiar style. The sketch of the life of Mr. Farrand may be found in connection with the history of the drug firm of Farrand. Williams & Clark :^ were given where we desired to pay men, and all that. The pay. ment of men was done in those days very largely with orders." "Were not payments made very often in furs?" "Of course there were dealei's in furs at that time, but it was not everybody that dealt in furs. James Abbott was the agent of the American Fur Company here and there were others that dealt in furs, but if anyone came in who wanted to sell you furs they were referred to some fur dealer because the common dealer would not know what the furs were worth." " What was the population of Detroit at that time?" "When I came here it was about 1,500; in 1830 tlie N.ational Census made it 2,223, 1 think. The location of tlie town was princi- pally down by the river. Our store was on Jefferson avenue, next to the corner where Burnham, Stoepel & Company are now. It was a little building next to the corner. At that time the river bank vras up this way further than it is now somewhat ; Atwater street was at the w.ater at that time ; that was the river front then. The .1. .« I b0t- £i*r» ^r r-':^ — r •^ Elpf- (■ p° fr I CI m S p^ Bf J^: flEi i^f^i p \m^ IR.I J. L. HUDSON'S MAMMOTH STORE. "I was brought here by my father with the rest of the family in May, 1825, on the oid steamer Superior, the only steamer then on the lakes anywhere. That was in the early days of steam-ship movements. My first business venture was made February 5th, 1830, when I entered the drug store of Rice & Bingham, as clerk, in my fifteenth year, and I have been continuously identified with the drug trade ever since."' "Tell lis something of your methods of conducting business in those early days." "Well — Dr. Justin Rice — I don't know the time he came here, but Edward Bingham came from Hudson, New York, in the year 1838, and the firm was Rice & Bingham from 1828 onward. I entered their store as a clerk in February, 18.30. The day I was twenty years old I was made a partner of Mr. Bingham. At that time we did not have as mvich money in circulation as we have now. We had mighty little money then. We began keeping our accounts from January to January and settled once a year. Orders market was right in the middle of Woodward avenue, facing Jeffer- son — toward the river. The market was an open market where the French people from Canada and from our side came and sold their apples and pears and produce. Beef was sold there also, cut up in stalls. The whipping post was in front of the market." "Did you ever see a man whipped there?" "I remember the sheriff whipped a man there, but I didn't see that done. I forget what offence he had committed, but such offenders were whipped for misdemeanors such as we would put them in prison for for twenty or forty days now. Business was done in general stores then different from what it is now. All the drug stores sold groceries as well as drugs. The drug store of Chapin & Owen was in the block below us and they sold groceries, and Hinchman & Company, their successors, sell groceries yet. We kept groceries until way along in 1865 or 1866. There was no whole- sale business done at that time and no manufacturing to speak of. The Bank of Michigan, where the First National Bank now is, was 12 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. at that time located at the corner of Jeflferson avenue and Randolpli street, ami that building— the First National Bank Building— was built by the Bank of Jlichigan, out of wild cat money in 1837 or 1838. That is one of the oldest landmarks left. The first manufac- turing was introduced here much latter tlian that. I think Chai)in & Owen did the leading busine-^s in the drug line at that time. We had very little trade witli the Indians in those days. Wo bought our goods in New York, and brought them up here by canal antl lake. We went to New York once a year to buy goods ; sometimes twice. Of course it took a good while to go down and buy and get the goods bai-k again by canal. The Erie canal was not opened until late in IHi,'! or 1826, and goods had to be teamed through from Albany to Buffalo, and it took some three months for them to get goods up here. Collect- ing bills was quite as disagreeable in those days as it is at present. Levi Cook, a leading dry gretty much all by themselves all winter.' "Was there any caste?" " Oh, yes ; to some extent ; but they were a social people. The old French peojile were a social people, and those old inhabitants and the members of the army mingled with each other ; and there were well-to-do merchants here who owned the ground tliey lived on and the farms they lived on, running back three miles, and some were five ai'poiits frontage, some three ; some more and some less. A French arpont is not quite as much as one of our acres. General Cass' farm was seven arponts : Colonel Jones', five, and they varied considerable in their frontage but they all ran back about three miles. There were no carriages here in those days; people rode' 14 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. around in ordinary French two-wheeled carts, just such as they carried on their busini-ss with, for there were no drays. We put some liiiy in the bottom and a. buffalo roho on tliat and rode every- wliere in them, except in llie winter, when we used oUl Frencli sleiglis. Those old carryalls were very nice and handy. I can remember seeing those French carts l)acked up to tlie church as we came out — ten or fifteen of them standing there. They were much easier to get in and out of than tlio carriages of to-daj-. Everybody rode in them ; they could be unliooked and dumped like a coal cart. Mrs. Governor Porter was unhooked and dumped out once in front of the First National Bank. They wero just like these coal dump carts and had no springs. It was very muddy in those days. Speaking of muddy streets re- minds me that the first paving in De- troit was done on Jefferson avenue, not so many years ago. It was made of blocks of wood put down by Jlr. Eldridge, near the corner of Wood- ward and Jefferson avenues,and extend- ed about half a block. lie wanted to show ho w it cou Id be done. He used large blocks about a foot deep and they lay there for years. There were plank roads up Woodward avenue when this house was built — in 1854 and 1855 and we rode on the plank roads in our rock- away for a good while. We moved into this house in 1855, so, you see, it is one of the oldest houses in this city. There were plank roads built when General Cass came back from beiiiK Minister to France. Mr. Ledyavd, his son-in-law, took hold of the business and tried to get roads out into the country . General Cass came back liere in 1841, I think, though it might have been somewhat earlier than that. Mr. Leer was rea<-hed from Jefferson avenue. The first market stood in the mid- dle of Woodward avenue, and extended from Jefferson avenue to Atwater street. The building was a French structure, in the quaint old fasliioned style. It was the j)rjde of the town. Where now stands the Russell Ilonse stood an old, dilapidated blacksniitli's shop. At the corner of Woodward avenue and Congress street was an old log bridge snanning the little stream, the Savoyard, whose I>ower. The horse was stationed on the hurricane deck. The power was communicated from a windlass, to which the horse was hitched, to the screw of the ferry boat. Tlio inhabitants at that time were mostly French Canadians. Everybody belonged to the fire depart- ment. Every family in the city had a tar bucket, constituting pro- tection from fire. When an alarm was sounded everybody ran with his or her bucket, hastening to put out the blaze. The first circumstance in the way of city improvements was a three foot plank sidewalk. This was regarded as very extravagant. Government lands could be bought at ten shillings per acre. When Mr. Jloore came to Detroit there were in tlie city seven brick build- ings. Seven churches stood below the blacksmith's shcp, above referred to. Toledo stood in Jlichigan ami was called Vistula. Then it became Port Lawrence. At last the name was changed to Toledo. Mr. Jloore reiiorts often having seen deer and bears and wolves on the old Knaggs farm, now the Bela Hubbard farr.i. On Sunday the people used to go to church in carts sitting month was wliere now stands tlic jn-escnt ])ost office. Tliis stream ran in a direction north-easterly, toward the central market, finall\- wasting itself in the marslies of the back country. The stone uscil in the construction of the old St. Anne's church was brought iij) tlic river from Wyamlotte and Ecorse in the scows of tlie Fici.cli fislici- men. The water works in tliose days was a red painted b;irrel ; anybody wanting water went to the public pump at the foot of Randolph street and paid the man in attendance there for a barrel of water. Later the water was delivered to any part of the cit\ . The late Henry Berthelet, father-in-l:i\v of Jlr. M.u.iv, IkkI the cliartcr from the city in reference to the pump. M.iy's creek was another little stream, having its source in a marsliy spot where now stands the Cass market. The stream took a wmding course, and finally reached the Detroit somewhere in the vicinity of Sutton's pail factory, West Fort street, near Eleventh. The boys in those days used to fish near the Ca!=s market, and were Sir. Moore's lips not sealed many, indeed, are tlie fish stories he could recite of that early time. The ferry boats of the day were propelled by horse flat in tlie liottom Ci the conveyance. The carts were drawn by Frencli ponies. Mr. Jloore saw tlie corner stone laid of the old State Capitol, where now stands the Detroit High School, or, more properly, the back end thereof. "The people used candles in their homes. Cias was unknown. But, after all, there was a vast fund of genuine comfort in the olden days'; comforts, too, that now, in this unresting age, seem gone forever. " Reminiscences of Alanson Sheley. Of the older residents of Detroit, who has contiiiuously since his identification with the city been numbered with its leading busi- ness representatives, Mr. Alanson Sheley, of the drug house of Williams, Sheley & Brooks, affords a striking instance. This gentle- man came to Detroit fifty-nine years ago and his recollections of tliat early period in the city's history are narrated by himself as follows: — " I came to Detroit August 31, 1831. The town at that time did DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. I ALANSON SHELEY. not contain above 2,500 inhabitants. There were then but two wharves here — one called the government wharf and the other, Jones' wharf. The market stood in the middle of Woodward avenue, just below Jefferson avenue. It was built of wood and was then the only market in Ihe city. There was but one business street of any kind or description, which was Jefferson avenue. Randolph street, at that time, represented the east end of the city. Wood- ward avenue extended beyond the city limits, and Woodbridge street ran up as far as Ri-ver street. Larned street did not go further eastward tlian Randolph street. There was no street except Randolph street leading up from the river and that did not extenti any further than Grand River avenue. Thei-e were but two hotels then, the Woodward Hotel and the Mansion House, down near the Cass farm. Judge Woodward came here from Washington to laj' out the city. He and Judge Wetherell laid out the city of Detroit. It was for Judge Woodward that Woodward avenue was named, other streets being given presidential names, etc. Judge Wetherell extended Woodward avenue above the Grand Circus park, making it sixty feet wide. The Judge once facetiously remarked : 'You may call it Wither street, because it has withered all of my pros- pects.' Cass farm was just beyond the Mansion House, whicli was located on First street on the river bank, twenty-five feet above the water, and General Cass' house stood just beyond it, a little miser- able wooden building. There were no streets running: west, except Michigan and Grand River avenues, and none east further than Randolph street. Where the Russell House now stands the property was owned by one Dr. Brown. He offered to sell it to me in 1833 for $750. It was swampy ground in the centre of which stood a, lar_;e building, and I would not buy because I was not assured that it would ever be worth more. Land right out on Woodward avenue could be purchased for from $50 to $100 per acre. You could buy anything you wanted at about $50 per acre. When I came here Evan Davis, William Brewster, I. L. King and Enoch Jones were the dry goods merchants. I remember that E. Bingham was con- ducting the drug business. The fact is there were not many stores here at that time. Goods came to Buffalo by canal from New York or Albany and thence by boats to Detroit. When navigation was closed, there was no way of getting goods at all. I will give you an instance : Navigation was closed one fall and there was no salt here, except what Mr. Oliver Newberry had. No salt could be had from Syracuse then. Mr. Newberry was a kind-hearted man, but t2] he would sell but one barrel of salt to any one person at a fair price. Thus the farmers and others witli their families were supplied. Oliver Newberry was about the principal merchant at that time, lie built boats and gave employment to a good many men in the town and was the leading man in all of our commercial relations on the lakes. There weie no manufacturing establishments here in 1831. There was afterward a man named Hill, who had a cabinet maker's shop, which was the first beginning of manufactures in Detroit. There had been for some years prii)r to my coming, wagon- shops and such places, where were made French carts, as they were termed. There was not a single carriage owned by any family in Detroit. Everybody rode in carts and wagons. Such a thing as a buggy was not known. The mail came by boats and in winter by stage. The postmaster, when I first came was James Lambert, but he was succeeded in the fall of that year, by John Nerval, a friend of Andrew Jackson, from whom he received the appointment. The post office w^as on the site of the old Michigan Exchange, but was removed by Norval to the little building just below. His wife assisted him. He had no clerk. The mail received by stage came in about once a day from Cleveland by way of the Black Swamp. The first wholesale dry goods merchant, I think, wasZach Chandler, and about the same time Mr. Baldwin was the leading dealer in shoes. ■•The liist bide walk in Detroit was built by Zach Chandler at the corner of Jefferson and Woodward avenues. It was six feet wide and the wonder. Shortly afterward Dr. Bagg introduced an ordinance in the city council, requiring the construction of side- walks three feet wide on the jirincipal streets. Our fire department was of the most primitive kind. Every householder was obliged to keep two buckets of water in the house. When there was a fire everybcK'.y turned out with their buckets, arranged themselves ill a line froui the river to the fire and passed buckets along the line to the old-fashioned hand fire engine. The first theatre was built in Detroit in 1842, I think, on Gratiot avenue, where the public library now stands. It was an old wood building, such as nobody would attend now-a-days, but it served our purpose nicely in those times. but Reminiscences of Alexander C. McGraw The gentleman who favored this publication with interesting interview, Sir. .a brief A. C. McGraw, is to-day the ALEXANDER C. MCGRAW. i8 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. oldest merchant in Detroit, in continuous service, and has been aas(jciatcil with Detroit's business interests since 1833, a period of fifty- nine years. "There is but little any of us old men could say," began Mr. McGraw, "that would prove of interest to the rising generation. Times are so changed, and so many of us have passed away, that, indeed, but few of us remain who could appreciate the full signifi- cance of tales of the olden daj s. However, I recall many bits of historj' -personal or local — that might bear rei)eatiiig : — "I was born in the Highlands of the Hudson, September 20, 1S((0, and left Newburgh with my father's family May 18, 18.")0, in a sailing lioat for All)any, wliere we took passage on the Erie Canal tliat had been finished but a few years, conseijuently many of tlie towns on the route were new. The boat stopped in many places. I remember well the a|)pearance of Rix-hester. Tlio streets had been laid out and the forest trees cut down, but the stumps were yet standing. At that time there were no ])assenger railroads in the United States, but one from Albanj' to Schenectady was being constructed, and one or two others. From Bufl'alo to Detroit, we came up the lake on a tub of a steamer named the Peacock. Captain Pease — it was a high position those days and Captain Pease was a high-toned character tliat must be approaclied by a passenger with hat in hand. Some few years afterward the steamboat Michigan was built and Captain Pease was promoted to the command, where his dignity was largely increased, and the day before arrival in Chicago, at the Captain's dinner a toast was drunk by the passen- gers. ' The Steamboat Michigan too large a pod for small Peas.' "On our arrival in Detroit we hired rooms and commenced hou.se-keoping. Soon afterwards my fatlier and I with two or three others started for Oakland County, on the Pontiao road on foot. Tlie day was warm and some of our parly became thirsty and inquired of two or three persons we met, if wo would soon come to water, but was told old Jlotlier Handsom's at Koyal Oak would be the first place. Mother Handsom was so homely slie was called Handsome. She had been through the war of 1813 to 1815, as a camp woman. When we arrived at her cabin, she stood in the door with a broom in her hand. My father was naturally ])olite and hurried up to her and said, ' Mrs. Handsom, you ROM its original significance as an eligible trading station for furs and its occupancy in that relation by Cadillac and his French garrison in 1701, Detroit has assumed the distinction and prominence due to its geographic location and the facilities afforded by its water-ways and generally favorable trade essentials. It early attracted settlers of commercial inclinations, who established the founda- tions from which have grown the vast enterprises of to-day. The introduction of the railway and telepraph contributed to the rapid progress of commercial and manufacturing relations and the extension of trade in tributary directions. Modern mechanical art and science, prolific in the construction of labor-saving machinery and appliances, have rendered manufacturing operations productive of great exten- sion, and Detroit's products in varied relations find ready sale in all markets. DFTROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, BANKING AND FINANCE. BY T. II. IIIN'CHMAK. " From 18;5S to 18-1.") tlie business of chartered lianks in Detroit, anil also in Michigan was precarious or disastrous. The insurance coinpanj' which coninienced banking in 18:^, in a small way (^IS,.")!)!) (•a|)ltal), wiis the only survivor not under suspension and ditliculties. In 18-15 the State Bank and the Farmers' & Mechanics' Bank ns'eived their charters and continued business profitably, the first until 18.M anil the latter to 1802. In 1849 the legislature granted two (■.barters, one of wliicli was the Det-jit Savings Fund Institute, witliout capital, which was re organized into the Detroit Savings liiiik in ISTI, with .f-'Od.OOO capital, and is the oldest bank now in Detroit or Michigan. The I'.'ninsular Bank was also chartered in the same year with ^lOO.OdO capital, increased in 1853 to .t^OO.CKMl, and in 1858 to $;J50,000. In 18">7 it suspended ; resumed in 1858, but had a jirecarioua and unprofitable business until 1870, when it cKised, paying shareholders 20 per cent. Thus, from 1842 to 185i), five banks in Detroit ^vith aggregate capital of !f;5()l),01)() to $80(1,000 transacted all city and much state business with the aid of able and leliablo jirivate bankers, viz: J. L. Lyell commenced 1S4;J; J. O. (Jraves, 184:i ; CVie & C.'oit, 1843, succeeded by A. H. Dey, 1845 ; W. A. Butler & Company, 1847; S. A. Ives & Comjiany and C. A. Ives, A. Ives & Sons, 1847 to thi.-: ilale ; David Preston & Company, 1852 to 1885 ; V. J. Sc Jtt, 1850 to 1885 and others of lesser imijortance. "In 1857 a second general Banking law was pa.ssed by the legis- lature, which was voted upon by the people in 1858, and took etfect in 1859. Banks were slow to organize under the law. The State Bank of Jlichigan, at Detroit, was tlie first : tliis was merged into the First National Bank in 1865; The Michigan Insurance Bank, in ISOO, which re-organized into the National Insurance ]5ank in 1804 and (Oosed in IS(ii), after a successful career ; Mercliants"& Manufacturers' HaiUc. 18('iy, re-organized intoa National Bank in 1877. Oidy four banks organized uncler the law in the first four years, and only fifteen to 1871, when the law was amended with ])articulurreference to Savnigs Banks, after which Savings Banks were organized rapidly — in 1871, thirteen, 1872, nine; by 188G the total of organiza- tion had been eighty-four under the laws of 1857 and amendment of 1871, of which, at that date, thirty-five Savings Banks and twenty State Banks remained doing business, twenty-nine having discon- timied or were re-organi/.ed into National Banks. Their business was generally fair, but few had accumulated much surplus or finan- ciil strength. In Detroit, prior to the j)assage of the National Hanking law in 18(i;t, were tlie following Itanks : The Micliigan liisiiiance Bank, Detrnit Savings Institute, State Bank and I'cnin- sular Bank. The Jackson City Bank, at Jackson, had a good business, and was the strongest State Bank. The reliance of the state was largely upon private bankers, who were prosperous and ai'.quireil considerable capital. Following is a list of the stronger : At Adrian, W. M. Waldby, L. II. Berry ; Albion, J. W. Sheldon ; Ann Arliiir, Miller & Webster; Battle Creek, L. C. Kellogg; Collier, Kingman & Skinner, A. C. Hamlin ; Bay City, C. \V. Gibbon ; Detroit. T. L. Lyell, W. A. Butler, Kellogg, Granger & Sabin, C. & A. Ives, Parsons & Fislier, David Preston; East Saginaw, W. L. I'. Little & Comiiany, Biockway, Skeels & Comi)any ; Flint, Stone & Wetherbee, E. H. llazeltnn & Company ; (irand Kaiiids, Ledyard & Aldrich, M. L. Sweet; Hilsdale, Waldron & Waldliy, C. J. Mitchell & Henry Waldron ; Hudson, Buies, Rude & Company, J. M. Osboi-n ; Jackson, C^)oper & Thompson, P. B. I.,oomis & Com|iany ; Jonesville, W. W. Murphy & W. J. Baxter, E. O. Grosvenor ; Kalamazoo, T P. Sheldon, J. P. Sheldon & Company ; Monroe, Wing & Johnson, Dansard Sc Lafonlain ; Marshall, C. T. Gorham, Perrin & Sibley, J. ('. Frink ; Niles, R. C. Paine; Pontiac, Comstock & Stout ; Saginaw City, G. L. Buiiows & Company ; St. Johns. H. C. Ilodges, A. G. Iligham ; Schoolcraft, Dykeman &Ciibb; Ypsilanti, Follet, Conklin & Company, B. Follet & Company, E. & F. P. Bogardus. R. U. Hempill, a l)artner with B. Follet, commenced in 1S5!). Private Banks were more reliable and of imicli mon perma- nent value to the iieople, state and Detroit, than were cliartered Banks, until organizations under the National Banking law and ,;he state law of 1871, when several private banks changed to National Banks, or Savings Banks. State Banking laws in Michigan had not been passed upon or amemled since 1871 and were not satisfactory to Bankers or the public. Several attempts were made at different sessions of the legislature without result. In 1887 a bill was introduced by Hon. C. J. Monroe, revising the system, adopting the most salient and desirable provisions of the National law. Acommis.sioner totakechargeof the e.M'cutionof the law by su]>ervision and examination was jirovided. The bill jiassed, was apjiroved Juno 25, 1887, voted upon by the peojile in November and took effect January, 1889. Since September, 18S7, forty-four Banks have newly organized, five of which are in Detroit, and all state Banks are conformed to and governed by the law. Ot tlie new Banks twenty-eight have the title of 'Savings' Banks. Any Bank, under the law, may have a savings department, and any savings Bank can transact all and any business of Banking as pro- vided. The law is very acceptable, and has induced the organization of Banks in many interior towns. Its ])riivisions are well suited to the pulilic needs and the law is popular with the pcDjile. It is much to he desired tliat state Banks, under proper home supervision, .should trans let the business of their localities and receive on deposit savings at an interest rate. Tliere were eighty state and savings Banks icpnrled in Michi- gan in 18S8. Thirteen new Banks were organized i i ls.s!) ;ind iif teen additional in 1890. Of tliis number 108 Banks have iijiortcd to the commission wii h the iollowing totals : Capital, $^.40O..'-i:!5 ; deposits, $4;i,180..500; loans, $27,028,115; stocks, bonds and mortgages, ^18,- 840,637. Sixty-seven of the above are Banks witli savings depart- ments, having 12(>,604 savings depositors and a total of $27,779,136 deposits at an average rate of interest of 3.76 jier cent. Commercial deposits, .^9.346, 646; certificates, $6,054,724. Total assets of 106 Banks and two trust companies, $56,950,395. Si.x of the fifteen state Banks of 1889 are conversions from National Banks. Within four years, at least twelve Banks have given up national charters. There are 113 National Baiik-i in the state, having an aggregate capital of $15,(;74,liOO; surjihis fund, !j;3. 173,932 ; de|io.sits. $37,059,397; due to Banks and Bankers, $0,052,261 ; loans and liiscounts, $47,527,375. Total of 221 Banks in the state, caiiital. $24,000,135; deposits, $80,- 539,905 ; duo to 15aiiks and Bankers, $7,:!77,304 ; loans and discounts, .$75,155,520 ; stocks, bonds and mortgages, $23,136,308. Sa-o-inga IBai-n"tes iia. IDe-tx^oit;- OrKaiiization. Capitul. Deposit.^;. Tlptroit Savings Bank 1849 re-organized ISTi S.' iMHK) St,:iUS,I(io Wavni-f ity Savings Bank Septeu,biTls, 1871 l.Vi.rcio r>,0i'!),i,7 1 Pe, pie sSaviiijs Bank lanuary 1, 18.^ ,'iOO.(IOO C,-,'14 OS'J Jleehaniis Hunk Oetober 4, 18T1 l()0,liOO l,(Klil.l«l Micliigan S.-ivings Bank February in, is;r IW.OOO l,2.'t,0lKI Geiniiui American Bank Februai-y S, is«:i lOti.iWO Nil). 000 Dime Savings Bank April.5,lHHl •Mt.lUk) 1,1*11, I5!l I'itizens' Savings Blink March a. IKS.", x'iKl.iKii HSi.Sto American Hanking & Havings As n April 1, IKKT .'•iKi.txm kks i**) Mate Saving's Hank October 21. ISKi 2il0.ili)il '.;,1SI1.1','9 Ihimc Savings Hank October 11, IMS LliO.liiil rrr.ODJ (■ciitral Savings l:auk April 111, 1.88'i lOD.IIOll .■jli'l.OOO I'cninsnlar Savings Bank August ST, IMW avl.iNio ],34.'j.,').')l 1 'it V Savings HaiiK October &■>, 1 8«!i ^.Vi.iiiil 5li0,ri«j Hctniit, Itiver Savings Bank March 20, isyii idd.Ohi i:i6,!)s-_> Total, Sa.lim.OOO S26,«S3.128 "There are three trust company organizations not yil in active operation. " The legislature of 1889 passed a law for the incorporation of trust, deposit and security companies, and to repeal other laws pre- viously passed for that purpose. The same was approved May 23, 1889. The object of the law is stated in the enacting clause (those interested can consult imblic acts, session 18S!(, pp. Ill to 117.) A very strong organization under the law has been iiartially effected in Detroit. It is not certain that active business will soon be com- menced, but the association comprising nearly all large capitalists in Detroit will bo available when it shall be demanded or thought advisable. Representatives from all city Banks are on the board of directors, so that the trust company may be subordinated, or, at least, work in harmony with exi; ting banking interests. The law at present, on careful examination by financial and legal experts, is not satisfactory to the incorporators of the company and its material amendment is sought at this session of the legislature, so that tlie word iiKiiicn in articles to be deposited shall be stricken out, and additional limitations, restrictions and ))enaltii's shall be added and enforced. As the law now stands trust coiniianies would be promi- nent and have an extensive and profitable business. " In 1802 the government was in need of largo amounts for war purposes. Secretary of the Treasury Chase made trijis to New York DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 21 to consult Bankers with reference to tlie disposal of bonds, and the issue of currency by Banks that would be national and at par in all states and territories. A bill had been introduced "n congress in 1861, which was reported upon favorably by the committee, of which E. G. Spaulding, and Samuel Hooper were prominent. Mr. John J. Knox and Hon. A. B. Potter advocated a national system of Banking. In 1863 a bill was introduced in the senate by Hon. Jolin Sherman, reported upon favorably February 3, and February 13. passed the senate by a vote of twenty-three to twenty- one. The bill was mainly copied from the general Banking law of New York, but to adapt it to a national system prominent Bankers in New York and Philadelphia were consulted. The bill passed the House 20th of February, and was promptly approved. The law was su- perceded by the act of June 3, 1864, without essential change, except- ing in title. The law was of immense advantage to the government. In three years .f390,000,000 bonds were purchased for Banks, upon which 90 |)er cent, of notes were issued and circulated. The govern- ment taxed their capital twenty years, to 1883, aggregating $60,940.- 067, and the issues of bills to this date, realizing from both $137,664, 13.5, to January 1, 1890. In three years 1601 Banks organized under the law with |337, 000,000 capital and to November, 1889, 4,148 organizations (including re-organizations) had been effected, 3,318 continuing. In Michigan forty-two banks were authorized in the two and one quarter years succeeding the passage of the act, and by the close of 1889. one hundred and thirteen national Banks remained, doing business in the state, out of about loO organizations and re-organizations. The following National Banks have been organized in Detroit. Name. Date of iiei'inissiou Capital. Surplus to commence. during 189J. First Nat lonal Bank October 5, 1603 $600,000 First National Bank, re-organized., , . . June 19, 1888 f uo.iiOO $100,000 Second National Bank | October r, 186:3 50O 000 1 , , . , increased to !- succeeded by ^^ 1,000.100 j Detroit National J February 1, 1883 1,000,000 131,000 National Insurance Bank Julj' 13, 1865 ( onn nn artiiient of the D. & M. R. R. In 1873 he became associated with the First National Bank of Detroit, as assist- ant bookkee.ier, being subsequently promoted to the position of general bookkeei)er and discount clerk, in which relations he per- formed faithful and eflicient service for nine years. In A|>ril, 1881, he entered the Detroit Savings Bank, as Assistant Cashier, and one year later became Cashier, an office he has since filled with great ability and credit. In Mr. Bowman are united the qualities and characteristics which make successful men of business and advance them to the occupancy of positions which bring signal honors and meritorious distinction. DIME SAVINGS BANK. This BanK was organized in April, 1884, with a capital of .$60,000, which lias since been increased to $200,(100. Its record has shown continual successes. anrudent and conservative. 'Ihe Bank is located at 151 Griswokl street, opposite the City Hall, with a branch in successful o|)eration at the corner of Jlicliigan avenue and Twenty-third street. The officers of tlie Home Savings Bank are : Janu's Mc(!regor, Presiniven a source of distinction to tlie Bank. The issuance of commercial letters of credit for merchants and others who wish to make i)urcliases in foreign markets, has also i)roven one of the worthy and enterprising f^itures of The Preston National Bank, which has sought the most satisfactory syi terns in the conduct of its large and constantly increasing business, and Tlie Preston National is the only Bank in the State which conducts all branches of the Banking business ilirectly in its own name without the intervention of i>tlier Banks or financial institutions. The Bank now issues to travelers in the United States and other portions of Nortli America, Traveler's Cir- cular Notes and Letters of Introduction and Identification. These notes are immediately availal)le in several hundred cities and towns in the United States, Dominion of Canada and Mexico. They are issued by no other B.ink, and afford the best, safest and most satis- factory means for tourists to carry funds, as they overcome all (lifHcnlties experienced in "getting identified," as well {is the uncer- tiinty about getting drafts cashed because of the hesitation on the p.irt of Banks to casli drafts drawn by other Banks and between which there are no direct business relations. The Preston National has definite arrangenier.ts made witli all of its hundreds of corres- pondents in North America, and furnishes purchasers of its Traveler's Circular Notes with a list tliereof. Recognizing the ini])ortance and value of confining all knowledge of the transaction between the Bank and its customers, the Directors of the Preston National Bank forbid all of its officers and clerks from disclosing transactions of any of the Bank's customers under a penalty of immediate dismissal. The buililing ocrii|iied is one of the handsomest and l)est appointed in Detroit, its office accomodations being esjiecially well adapted and affording every convenience and facility for the trans- action of the various details of business of the Bank's several departments. PENINSULAR HAVINGS BANK. This highly successful Banking institution was organized in 1887, and began business September 1"), of tlie same year. It has a capital of !i;:S.')ll,<)0(l, deposits of ^1,2.)1),()()0, and undiviiled profits and surplus of ^41,000, though it has paid, in cash dividends, 21 per cent, in three years. Its management has been exceptionally jwogressive and promotive of the best financial results, while remaining suffi- ciently conservative to satisfy prudent investors. It transacts a comnieicial and savings business, jiaylng four jier cent, interest on savings dei]osits, and solicits commercial accounts. It has outgrown its rpiarteis at 04 (iriswold street, and will soon oeeupy elegant offices on Fort street west, having purchased the C. J. Whitney & Company's building fnr S;100,000. Wlien this has been entirely remodeled ami refitted it will constitute one of the most CDinmodious and convenient Banking establishments in the city, ami will be known as the Peninsular Bank Building, part i>f it being reserved for professional offices. The Bank's officers are as follows: Alexander Chapaton Jr., President; John M. Dvvyer, First Vic-President; Joseph Perrien, Second Vic-e-President ; Joseph B. Moore, Cashier ; J.H.Johnson, Assistant Cashier, JosKi'H Bektiiki.I'.t Moore, Cashier of the Peninsular .Savings Bank, was born at Detmit, SeiittMiiber l"), ISKi. The paternal grand- father of Jacob Wilkie Moore (Joseph B. Moore's fatlier), was (ieneral "William Moore, of revolutionary distinction, who came to this country in 1770, settling at Bolton. Massachusetts. The pres- ent generation is, therefore, entitled to the strong attributes of character transmitted from English and Scotch progenitors and their New England descendants. Mr. Moore had a thorough eiluca- tion in the Detroit public schools, graduating from the high school. In ixti'i he ol)tained the iiosition of Cashier in the dry goods house of E. S. Parker, and soon after became assistant bookkeeoer JOSEPH I'.. MOORE. in the wholesale house of Allan Shelden & Company. But he hail a natural predilection for the Banking business, and, in ISUU, obtained the position of corresponding clerk in the First National Bank at Jlilwaukee, "Wisconsin. By strictest attention to his duties and a tireless aiiibitlon to ac(iuiie a full knowledge of the details incident to the business he was pursuing, he was soon advanced to the iiosi- tion of teller. After two yearj in Milwaukee, he returned to Detroit, to accept the position of discount clerk in the First National Bank, discharging his duties with great fidelity and efficiency for ten years. In 1878 he purchased the interest of Jlr. "W. D. Hooper, in the firm of Jarves & Hooper, fertilizer manufacturers, of this city, and severed his connection v.ith tlio Bank to incoriiorate the Michi- gan Carbon Works, capitalized at .^si),0i10; Jlr. Deming Jarves was made President; Mr. Moore, Secretary and Treasurer. He was a, potent factor in building up this C iiiipany till lss8, when he with- drew to organize the Peninsular .S.ivings Bank. Of this iiistitulioii he became tlie Cashier and one of its Directors. STATE SAVINGS BANK. This prominent and successful Bankliiginstltution was organized and incorporated in 1N83, with a capital stock of ^ir)0,00n, wliicli, in DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 29 1887, was increased to $300,000. It does a commercial and savings business, deals in foreign exchange, and issues letters of credit, uvaiUible in anj' part of tlie world. Its career lias been marked by prudent, sagacious and conservative nianagciuent and direction, and it has acquirod a position wliicli invests it witli the character of [I solid financial identity. Its officers are G. H. Russel, President ; M. S. Smith, Vice-President, and R. S. Mason, Cashier. Its Board jf Directors is composed of the following prominent and well- known gentlemen : Hon. R, A. Alger, Ex-Governor of Michigan ; I. K. Burnhani, of Burnham, Stoejiel & Companj- ; H. M. Camjibell, Attorney and Counselor; W. C. Colburn, Secretary and Treasurer Dttroit Bridge and Iron Works; C. L. Freer, Vice-President ai.d rreasurur Peninsular Car Company; Frank J. Hecker, President Peni- nsular Car Company ; H. B. Ledyard, President Slichigan Central Railroad Gomp my ; Hugh McMillan, President Commercial National Bank ; W. C. McMillan, General ]\Ianager Michigan Car Company ; R. 5. Mason, Casliier ; H. C. Parke, President Parke, Davis & Company ; jreorge H. Russel, President of the Bank ; Henry Russel, General attorney Michigan Central Railroad ; M. S. Smith, President Ameri- can Exchange National Bank, and Charles Stinchlield, of Whitney S: Stinchfield; Attorneys for the Bank, Messrs. Walker & Walker. The lew quarters of the Bank in the Hammond Building to which a ■euioval was made in 1890, are fitted ni) in handsome style and the ippointments are of such a character as charm every visitor. Svery necessary facility is provided and affords convenien- ;es and accommodations for the Banking business vinexcelled in ,he city or State. The last statement of the State Savings Bank, ssued May 4, 1891, exhibited resources of |2,493,595.10 ; surplus and individed profits of $05,375.94, and deposits of $3,214,104.21. R. S. Mason, Cashier State Savings Bank, was born in Ireland n 1839, and came with his parents to Michigan. His fatlier, after ;onducting farming operations for sfime time in Greenfield and Dearborn townships, in Wayne county, Michigan, obtained a josition on the editorial staff of the Detroit Tribune and moved his amily to this city. Mr. Mason began his business career in 1855, in lie crockery and glassware establishment of F. Wctmore & Com- )any, then the most extensive dealers in that line in Detroit. He ■emained with this house for one year, when lie became messenger or the Michigan Insurance Bank, in the building now occupied by he First NaJonal Bank. From that time to the present he has )een continuouslv identified with Detroit's Banking interests. He R. S. MASON. FREDERICK MARTIN. filled the position of jjaying teller in the First National Bank from 1809 to 1883, and upon the organization of the State Savings Bank in the latter year, was called to the Cashiership of that institution, which office he has since held with commendable fidelity and con- spicuous ability. During Mr. Mason's association with the Banking business, covering a period of nearly tliirty-five years, he has invariably exhibited the most signal evidences of a faithful, honest and unimpeacliable character, and an example of unselfish and per- sistent devotion to confided trusts and interests. His intimate knowledge of the Banking business in all o£ its details has rendered him an important and valuable factor in the State Savings Bank, and in other relations in which he has served, notably as Treasurer of the Young Men's Christian Association during the time of the erection of its new building. Mr. Mason was for years an active member of the Detroit Light Guard and attained the rank of First Lieutenant. He was married in January 1805 to Miss Pliebe Reilly, of Brookl3'n, New York, and has three sons. The family residence is a handsome villa on Canfield avenue. Mr. Mason is a member of the oflicial board of the Cass Avenue Methodist Episcopal Cliurch, of which all of liis family are members. He is conscientious in all of his relations and an upright and honorable man THIRD NATIONAL BANK. This Bank was organized in June, 1886, with a capital of $300,- 000, and has had an eminently successful career due to the prudent, sagacious, enterprising and progressive management and direction of its affairs. The business transacted is of a strictly commercial character and embraces large dealings with State Banks and Bankers. By the last iiublished statement of its condition, December 19, 1890, it declared a surplus and undivided profits of $30,000 and deposits aggregating $1,000,000. The Third National Bank ably sustains its generally recognized identity of conservatism and jirogress and ranks among the soundest financial institutions in the country. Its officers are: H. P. Cristy, President; J. L. Hudson, Vice-President ; Frederick Marvin, Cashier, and J. A. Dresser, Assistant Cashier. Its Board of Directors is composed of the following well known and influential business men of Detroit: William H. Stevens, capitalist ; H. P. Cristy, pine lands ; J. L. Hudson, clothing ; W. J. Gould, of W. J. Gould & Company, whole- sale grocers; F. B. Dickerson, of F, B. Dickerson & Company, publishers ; Frank E, Snow, real estate, and President Riverside 30 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. storage and Cartage Company ; W. A. Jackson, managing director Bell Tfle|ihoiie Company ; T. B. Ruyl, of T. B. Kayl & Company, lianUvaro ; Frederick Slarvin, Cashier, and De Forest Paine, attorney. FuEDERlcK JIakvin, Ca.sliier of tlie Third National Bank, of Detroit, was born at Cooperstown, New York, November 7, 1W4. The death of his parents when he was very young deprived him of educational advantages, and he began his business career at twelve years of age as an oflice boy in the emi>loy of ^Vlexander McPlierson & Company, Bankers, at Howell, Jlichigiin. He came to Detroit in his seventeenth year and entereil the Second National Bank as a clerk, becoming, when twenty-two, a teller in the Jleichants' & Manufactmers' National Bank and after faitliful and diligent service therein for eleven years. Assistant Cashier and Cashier. In March, 1886, he resigned the Cashiership of tlie Ulercliants' & Manufacturers' National Bank, and in Jime of the same year, organ- ized the Third National Bank, of which he is one of the largest stockholders and the incumbent Cashier. Mr. Marvin is otherwise interested in various relations; is the Vice-President of the Clover Condensed Milk Company, of Northville. Michigan: Vice-President of the Michigan Lubricator Company, and Secretary and lYeasurer S. DOW KI.WOOO, of the ifanitob.a Fish Coini)aiiy. Ho owns considerable timbered property in "Wisconsin, and, with a syndicate, large tracts of land in Texas. He is a charter member of the Rushmere Fishing Club, the Detroit Club, and several other similar organizations. He is also one of the Directors of the Detroit Board of Trade. At the State Convention at Grand Rapids, in October, 1S90, he came within eight votes of receiving the nomination for State Treasurer. He takes an active interest in politics and is a staunch Democrat. At the age of twenty-two be was married to a daughter of Judge Harmon and has one child — an interesting and handsome little girl. Ho resides iu a pleasant home at 519 Second avenue. WAYNE COUNTY SAVINGS BANK. The building occupied by the AVayne County Savings Bank, at 33 and IM Congress street west, ij one of the best constructed and liandsomest iu the city, alTording every requisite for the transactiim of the large business which its constantly increasing patronage brings to it. "When it was organized — in October, IsTl — its capital was $50,000, now it is .^150,000. Its last published statement showed a surplus fund and undivided profits of $404,673.43 ; savings deposits of $4,969,547.29, and its total resources as $5,525,215.89. The most positi.e security is furnished for deix>sitors. Twenty per cent, of the dei)osits is held in cash and the balance is let out in loans, on the Bank's conservative principle of reijuiring the most unquestioned security in all of its transactions. Interest is reckoned semi-annually and aaternal ancestors the earlj- adventurers from Holland, who settled in New York, then Manhattan He was born in Otsego County, New York, December 25, 1834, the home of his parents being located near the pictures(iue valley so famed in story bj- Cooper. His father dying while he was a young boy, his mother removed to Oneida Castle, New York. His progress at the school here gave him the position of teacher at the age of seventeen. In 18-13 he went to Rochester, New York, where his two uncles and his two elder brothers were living, and secured a clerkship in a mercan- tile business. In the following year he was appointe I to a position in the post-office, and in about a year was assigned as mail agent in the United States JIail Seriice, contimiing in tliis position till a change occurred in the ailministration in 1849. He followeil in the train of the California gold seekers iu 1H49, engaged in traffic with the mining camps, and subsetpieiitly operated an express line between San Francisco and the southern mining regions by way oi Stockton. He left California iu about a year and returned to his Rochester home, where he was married to the daughter of the Hon. E. M. Parsons of that city. Soon after his marriage he came to Detroit, where he conducted a book and stationery business till 1866. In 1867 he engaged in l)anking at Petrolia, in the oil region of Canada, a relation he preserved for four years, securing the experience and ripe judgment which has since been of such inestinuible value to him. Mr. Elwood originated the ])lan of the foundation for the present Wayne County Savings Bank, in 1871, in which he succeeded in interesting many of Detroit's wealthy and prominent citizens. He was made the first Secretary and Treasurer of the institution, positions which he held up to the time of the death of its President, Mr. Wesson. His elevation to the Presidency was a fitting recogni- tion of the services he hxd rendered. His time and talents always have been emi)loyed in making his Bank one of tlie strongest and best manageci finaii<-ial corporations in existence, and has proved not only a useful citizen of Detroit, but an ni)right and honorable man in all things. He is one of the two surviving members of the Union Lodge of Masons, founded in ls.-)3, and is a Unitarian in his religious views. S. T. WILLIAMS, Expert Accountant and Auditor, was born at Cin<'innati, Ohio, May 15, 1854, and was educated in the public schools of that city. Before his eighteenth year he held the position of account current clerk in the Third National Bank of Cincinnati. He won rapid promotion from one position to another, and at the age of twenty- three, having filled the desk up to first assistant receiving teller, he resigned and engaged in the profession of accountant and auditor. In the latter connection Mr. Williams has achieved the most notable prominence and distinction in services for cor|)orations in Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. Five years ago Jlr. Williams was appointed exjiert examiner for the Board of Revision of the City of Cincinnati, and during his service in this connection in the various municipal offices was paid fees closely aiiproximating lj;30,0()0. This was the occasion of the extinction of the Board of Public Works, and the eleva- tion of Jlr. Williams to the high position he thereby gained. He was called upon to assist in adjusting the affairs of the fiilelity National Bank of Cincinnati at the time of the failure of that institution, and for the past three years was employed as auditor of the Northern Assurance Company, of London, England. Mr. Williams was also emjiloyed by the Cincinnati Hamilton & Dayton Railroad in tlie com- pilation of data and in the investigation of the accounts of Henry S. Ives, the young Naptdeon of Finance. For the jiast two years he devoted much time and attention to inventing labor-saving systems of accounts for mercantile and manufacturing concerns. His income from this source was over $30,000 the past year. ib\ Williams has DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. S. T. WILLIAMS. recently moved to Detroit and is engaged in perfecting the Nickel Savings Stain [) .System, wliich is in use by tlie Citizen's Savings Bank and whicli lie has brought to a degree of perfection beyond any provious attempt. He occupies a magnificent suite of rooms in the Hammond Building. HOME BUILDING AND LOAN ASSOCIATION. This Association was organized in March, 1890, but did not com- mence active operations until July of the same year, its first series of stock being dated August 1, 1800. Its authorized capital stock is $25,000,000, in shares of .|100 each, to be accumulated by monthly payments of either one dollar or fifty cents per share. The one dollar installment shares are estimated to matui'e in from five and one- half to six years, and the fifty-cent-installment shares in about eight and one-half years. The one dollar installment shares may be jiaid for in advance by the i^ayment of Sfo-t per share. The fifty-cent installment shares may be withdrawn with all accumulated profits when they reach the value of .fijO per share, or tliey njay be carried on to maturity at the option of the holder, a feature possessed only by this Association in this state. None but non-negotiable first mortgages are taken for security, except that temporary loans may be made to the stockholders upon the stock of the Association at not to exceed 8.5 per cent, of its withdrawal value. Any member may withdraw from the Association before the maturity of his or her shares by giving thirty days notice in writing to the Secretary of his or her intention so to do, and shall be entitled to receive the full amount of installments paid, less the admission fee and fines unpaid at the date of such notice ; also, to receive interest at tlie rate of six per cent, if the shares have been in force three months and under two years ; over two years and under four years, seven per cent. ; over four years and under maturity, eight per cent. The mortgages may be paid up and discliarged at any time or $100 or more may be paid at any time and future monthly payments of borrowers correspondingly reduced, a feature first adopted by this Asoociation in this State. The Association has no separate "expense fund" and the business is conducted on the most con- servative principles. Fifty-thousand dollars in non-negotiable mortgages have already been accumulated, and nearly all on Detroit property. It has more shares in force in Detroit than any other Association, excepting only the oldest Association in the City from the list. Numerous homes in all parts of the city, varying from the mechanic's cozy five-room-house to the more pretentious modern residence of the well-to-do business or professional man, attest its value to the city. The officers and Directors are as follows : John Western, President ; R. J. McLaughlin, First Vice-President ; J. B. Kenned)', M. D., Second Vice-President; C. H. Prescott, Secretary; C. O. Parnielee, Treasurer ; Frank T. Lodge, Attorney ; C. H. Western, Superintendent of Agents. The office is in the Whitney Opera Hou.se Block, and the Association has twelve branch offices located in various parts of the city for the receipt of monthly installments. John Western, tlie original promoter of Building and Loan Asso- ciations in Detroit, was born and reared on a Michigan farm vintil he he was eighteen years of age. During his school culture he taught several terms and was graduated from the State Normal School in 1881. At the age of twentj'-one he became superintendent of schools in his native township, and afterwards taught in the high school three years, at the same time studying law. While acting as clerk of Genesee County in 188.5 he was admitted to the bar. He practiced the legal profession at Flint until 1889, and while a resident of that town served as Secretary of a ]irosperous Building Association. His attention hav- ing been attracted to the Building and Loan organizations coming into popular favor all over the country, he directed his investigations to the larger Eastern and Western establisliments, and selected his plans from tliose promising the best systems of co-operation and equity to both investor and borrower. Detroit appearing, as the metropolis of the State, to offer the most fitting location for the eventuation of liis l^rojects in the direction of a Building and Loan Association, he adopted that city as his home. He is tlie President of the Home Building and Loan Association, of Detroit. He is a man of great energy ; a critical judge of character, and an organizer of more than ordinary ability. MERCHANTS' AND MANUFACTURERS' NATIONAL BANK, T. H. Hinchman, President; D. Whitney Jr., Vice-President: H. L. O'Brien, Cashier ; W. E. Reilly, Assistant Cashier — 91 Griswold street. This Bank was organized originally under the State Bank- ing Law as the Merchants' and Manufacturers' Bank and was incor- porated June 1, 1809, with a capital of $100,000. July 13, 1877, it was re-organized as a national Bank, with a capital of $300,000, wliich, July 2, 1882, was increased to $500,000. At the close of business, October 2, 1890, its published statement of condition JOHNvWESTERN. V 3^ DETROIT IN HfSTORY AND COMMERCE. KhoivcJ total rjsources of $2,371,298.54 and a surplus fund, in excess of its (Mjiilul of SjioOO.OOO, of $100,000, and undivided profits of $.30,082.88. The k*'"''!""' management of the aifairs of tliis Bank has been conservative, jirudent and sagacious. Its President, tlie Hon. T. II. Jlinchnian, is tlie senior of the wliolesale grocery and ilrug firm i)f T. II. Hinclinian & Sons; an illustrons e.\])onent of the Hanking Ijusiness, and the author of the justly meritorious work, "Banks and Banking in Michigan." The Vice-President, David Wliitney Jr., is President of tlie Michigan Fire & Marine Insurance Company, and one of the most extensive lund)er dealers in Michi- gan. The Board of Directors, wliich includes ^lessrs. llinchman anil Whitney, is composed of the following well-known and higldy reputable business men of Detroit; N. G. Williams, of Williams Malt Company: .Jerome Croul, of Croul Brotliers, tanners and leatlier ; W. ] I. • Bi'ace, of Phelps, Brace & Company, wholesale 8;rocers ; H. K. White, of D. M. Ferry & Company, seed." ; George DRUGS AND CHEMICALS. In the relation of Drugs and Chemicals Detroit possesses a remarkable distinction and one superinduced by the position tliat city holds from the nature and vast extent of the industry. As among tlie e.ssentialsof commerce as supi)lying the needs of medica- tion and attendant considerations, this department is invested with especial interest and importance, and places manufacturers and general business in a conspicuous position. As being the Beat of the two largest institutions in the country devoted to the manufacture of Drugs, Chemicals and Druggists' Sundries, Detroit holds a position in this line invested with the highest consideration. These establishments, together with various others, command .a trade with the world; give great scope to tlie operation of capital, and supply thousands of laborers with the means of subsistence. ^J-' -m "^^^^ PAKICI-;, liAVIS .^- COMI'A.W'S l.ABUUATOKY. H. Russel, of Russel Wluel and Foundry Company ; II. M. Cainiiliill, of Kussel & Caniiibell, attorneys, and Charles Stinchfield, liimber. MiLELLAX AND .WDERSON. This tirm was established May 1, 1N7~. The business is private Banking: is e.xclusively confined to commercial transaction, and is conducteil uiioii the ])laii of national and state Banks. The mem- bers of the firm are Messrs. .Viidrew McLellan and George Amlerson, who are intimately ideiililiecl with the detaUs of the Banking liusi- ness. Tl ley have ample •apital and are prudent and conscu'vative. They have achieved a notalile success and their business li:is been createil entirely without solicitation. They keep an account with the Bank of Scotland, in London, England, a very strong financial institution, org-.nized in 1G9.5, also Jlechanics" National Bank, New York. Slessrs. McLellan and Anderson give their entire time and attenticin to the business in D^tioit. Their offices are located in tlic' Moffat Building, 119 Griswold street. PARKE, DAVIS & COMPANY Manufacturing Chemists. Manufacturers of Pharmaceutical Preparations, Fine Chemicals, Digestive Ferments, Empty Cajisules and other Gelatin Products, Pressed Herbs, and Importers and Dealers in Crude Vegetable Drugs. From 1807 to 1873 this organi- zation occujiied humble (piarters at the corner of lleiiiy and Cass streets. In 1S73, in order to aeipiire more e.\tendeil facilities, it removed to its present site. The superior excellence and rclialiility of its medicinal products, as also by its j)olicy of observing the mutual rights and obligations of the wholesale and retail druggist and the pliysician, recjuired such suc- cessive additions to its buildings, that the laboratory and offices, in which G!)5 people find employment, now cover over five acres of ll.ior space, while the stability of its financial concerns is backed by a paiil-up capital stock of ^1,000,000. The same exigencies have necessitated the establishment of branch offices at New York DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, 3^ Kansas City, London, England, and the branch laboratory a,t Walker ville, Ontario. Tlie laboratories are all equipped with the most approved appar- atus for the manufacture of medicinal products, and every aid in machinery is ait'orJed skilled employees to assist in producing the finest pharmaceutical preparations possible. The building situated on the corner of Fourth and Abbott streets, is wholly occupied in the manufacture of empty gelatine capsules, marketed by this firm, who first introduced this efficient form of disguising nauseous medicines to the medical profession. In addition to the manufacture and sale of medicinal products, Parke, Davis & Company, conduct a very large business in the importation and sale of crude drugs in original bales and packages. No other house has the facilities wliich this enjoys for securing full ■stocks of crude drugs, properly identified, gathered and cured in their respective habitats, by its own agents and correspondents. These transactions are carried on through the New York branch which, located first at 60 Cedar street, was obliged to move for more Robusta, Guarana, Coca, Verba Santa, Tonga, Manaca, Chekan, Boldo, Pichi and Jaborandi. Several of these have found a place already in the Pharmacopoeias of America and Great Britain, and it is not easy to understand on what principle of selection some of the others Jiave been ignored. FREDERICK STEARNS & COMPANY. Detroit, among other things, is noted for having within its limits the largest manufacturers of pharmaceutical preparations of any city in the United States. Of these none is more important than the house of Frederick Stearns & Company, which was estab- lished in ISoo by Frederick Stearns, and incorporated in 1882. It has a fully jiaid up capital of $200,000 ; employs over .500 persons in its works, and sends its products not only to every portion of the United States, but every important region on tlie face of tlie globe. Tlie building used as the laboratory by Frederick Stearns & Com- pany is the largest of its kind in the world. It occupies one entire square, 300 feet front by 180 feet deejj, and consists of three stories FREDERICK STEARNS & COMPANY S LABORATORY. room to GO Maiden Lane and 21 Liberty street, later to add 218 Pearl street for warehouse purposes, and has now again been obliged to seek still more room in tlie large building— 90, 92 and 94 Maiden Lane, and 9 and 11 Cedar street. The New York brancli also affords a convenient source of supply of the pharmaceutical products of the house to the Eastern trade, as well as an available forwarding point for the benefit of its European customers, who are many. The seed from which has sprung the immense business now attained has been noted. The secret of the growth of this house, which is plienomenal even when compared with any manufacturing business in the world, lies in three underlying principles of its busi- ness metliods : The superior quality and uniformity of its products ; its devotion to the mutual interests of pharmacists and physicians ; and its enterprise in the investigation of new drugs, eligible forms of exhibiting old remedies, and improved processes of manufacture. These investigations have resulted in bringing to the attention of the medical profession such remedies as Cascara Sagrada, Grindelia [3] and a cellar. It is situated on Twenty-first street, near Baker, and having been built for the express purpose of a manufacturing phar- macy, it is a model one in every respect, and is fitted with all the latest pharmaceutical appliances and machinery. Frederick Stearns, the founder of the house, after having devoted himself to active business for thiriy-two years, retired from tlie same at the close of 188G. He was succeeded, as President of the corporation by liis eldest son, Frederick K. Stearns, who has been connected with tlie business for over fifteen years, and has practically managed it for this period. In addition to their immense works at Detroit, Frederick Stearns & Compan}', have a laboratory at Windsor, Ontario, which, although not as extensive as the home establishment, is fully ecpiipped in every particular for pharmaceutical work. Their New York office is 211 Pearl street. New York City, at which point they attend to their own importing and exporting, and handle their Eastern trade. In addition to manufacturing a full line of pharmaceu- DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, fkki>i:kick k. steakns. tical iirciiHiiitioiis, sulIi as Pills, Fluid Extracts, Elixirs, etc., etc., tliey have a sijeoialty called "Non-Secret" medicines, which they original eil and first offered to the tradi; in 1876. "Non-Secret" medicines arc sini[)Iy popular medicines, put up without secrecy for liouseliold use, the formula being printed on each package, and are for the exj)ress purpose of re|)Iacing secret and ijuack nostrums. The merit and popularity of these medicines may lie understood when it is stated that nearly every retail druggist is the United States and Canada handles them, that the largest himses in Australia, South America, Central America, Mexico and India, push them in preference to patent medicines. Thirty-five traveling representatives are employed by this firm for the United States alone ; two representa- tives in South America, as well as one in Mexico and Central America. They have establislied agencies in London, Spain, New Zealand, Panama, Buenos Ayres, Valparaiso and tinee in Australia, besides a resident traveling salesman m the latter country. They do business with the retail drug trade alone, and have on their books, as regidar customers over 20,000 names. There are few insti- tutions that spreail the name and fame of Detroit abroad nu)re than does that of Frederick Stearns & Company. Frederick K. Stearns, the President of Frederick Stearns & Conipanj', has been connected with the business since IsT.j, at which time he left the Univei'sity of Michigan, in the middle of his junior jear, to take an active interest in the manufacturing part of the business. Determined to learn the busitiess thoroughly in all its branches, lie interested himself, i)ersonally, in every department until he had thoroughly acquired a practical knowledge of all its workings. For the first few years he devoted himself entirely to the nuiiiufacturing part, and there is no single department in the entire institution that he is not familiar with. In 1880, owing to the absence abroad of Sir. F. Stearns (wlio up to that time had taken charge of the financial part of the business), he (F. K. Steartis) was obliged to relincjuisli the superintendence of the laboratory jiroper, and devote his attention to the departments of traveling, correspondence and finances. For the fifteen years that Mr. F. K. Stearns has been connected with the business, he has been absent from his duties but a few weeks at the most at any time, and to liis careful attention and management in no small degree is due the present successful and prosjiurous condition of the house of Frederick Stearns & Company. Mr. Stearns is still a young man — thirty-six years of age — and, in popular parlance, is what might be termed a "hustler." Outside of business, Mr. Stearns" main recreation and pleasure consists of amateur athletics and music. He is President of tlie Detroit Athletic Club, which has an active mend)ersliip of 750, includes Detroit's best people, and which, inside of a few months will reach its limit of one thousand. Its splendid grounds, and fine club house are too familiar to Detroiters to need further comment here. Among its most famous athletes are John Owen Jr., champion amateur of the world at 100 yards, whose record of nine anil four- fifths secends, made at \V'ashington at the last meeting of the American Athletic Union, is without a parallel, and Fred T. Ducharme, amateur champion of the United States at the hurdles, in both one hundred and twenty and two hundred and twenty yards, and wlio won his title at Washington at the same time. Mr. Stearns is also President of the Detroit Musical Society, the most prominent and oldest established choral singing society in Detroit, which has an active membership of two hundred and a large honor- ary membership. Four years ago Mr. Stearns was President of the Detroit National League I5a.se Hall Club, which won not only the championship of the league, but also wrested the world's champion- ship from the ".St. Louis Hrowns." He was nuiinly instrumental in getting the then celelirated 'Miig 4," thereby forming the imcleus of the strongest ball team whicli ever represented any American city, and which, unipiestionably, greatly extended Detroit's fame abroad. On the theory that nothing succeeds like success. Mr. Stearns may be fitly called a successful man, as wdiatever he has ever interested himself in, in business or outside, he has always made a success. JOHNSON, NELSON & COMPANY. Among the manufacturing houses for which Detroit is justly famous, none have achieved more marked and rapid success than Johnson, Nelson & Company, Manufacturing Chemists, the pro- ducts of whose laboratory are to be found in nearly every drug store in the United States, and throughout several of the foreign count: ies. Tlie business having grown to the limit of the present plant, and still rapidly increasing, the lirm is now looking for a suitable site, having plans prepared for an extensive new laboratory, which will be made as perfect and complete as possible in every i)articular. The establishment of this concern dates from 1880, and the otHcers are: W. C. Johnson, President: H. G. Baker, Vice-Presider.l : E. 11. Nelson, Secretary and Treasurer. These gentlemen liave all been w. C, .JOHNSON. !•:. II. NELSON. H. (J. BAKEK DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 35 before the trade for many years past, and by their strict adherence to tlie principles of fair dealing, integrity and courteous treatment, have established themselves firmly in the confidence and esteem of customers and competitors alike. From their present history, briefly given below, it will be seen that the practical experience of tlie executive officers of the concern fully justifies the "confidence placed in their management and personal supervision of the business. Mr. Johnson is a graduate of tlie University of Michigan, class of 1878, and shortly after finishing his college course, began his practical experience in the manufacture of pharmaceutical preparations, which extends tlierefore over a period of thirteen years and covers all branches of the business. During the last ten years of this time he has had charge of the financial affairs of his firm and will con- tinue to attend to tliis department of the business. He is also inter- ested in two of Detroit's strongest banks and other outside enter- prises, but devotes his time exclusively to the business of which he is President. Mr. Nelson is a grad- uate of Belleville College and the Ontario College of Pharmacy, and has been continuously engaged in the drug business in its various branches, both retail and manufac- turing, for the past fifteen years. He has a very wide personal acquaint- ance among the druggists of the i United States, won in former days on the road, when he earned the ' title of "the banner salesman." He attends to the firm's interests in ; the management of the large force of traveling salesmen it employs, for which he is eminently qualified by his thorougli knowledge of the country, energy, and natural ca- pacity for getting business. Mr. Baker's career in the drug business commenced in tlie year 1809, and in his continued experience of nearly twenty-three years, he lias become known as the best posted drug man between New York and Chicago, and thoroughly alive to the demands of the trade, whicli abundantly testifies to his fitness for the responsible position he occu- pies as buyer. He also takes the general supervision of the labora- tory and to him is largely due the firm's reputation for the prompt and satisfactory execution of all orders. CHARLKS WPJ.GHT MEDICINE COMPANY. Charles Wright, of the Charles Wright Medicine Company, was '*—" -■' born in AVolcott, Nev/ York, in 1850. He removed with his parents to Michigan in 1856, and was educated in the State Normal School at Ypsilanti and in the University of Michigan, where he studied chemistry. Subsequently he spent several years in laboratory work in Detroit. In 1874 he secured employment with tlie wholesale drug liouse of McKesson & Robljins, of New York Cit}', as traveling sales- man, filling that position until 1880, wlien he came to Detroit, where he established a business under the firm name of Cliarles Wright & Company, for the manufacture of non-secret and pharmaceutical preparations. In March, 1800, the business was incorporated as the Charles Wright Medicine Company, absorbing the Rheumatic Syrup Company, of Jackson, Michigan, with a paid-up cajjital of .f 100,000. The three buildings, 15, 17 and 19 Jefferson avenue, are commodious and well appointed with requisite facilities, including the most modern machinery and appliances for manufacturing, with a cellar and a large storage warehouse in the rear. Emjiloyment is given to 200 liands and the annual output aggregates $500,000 in value. The ^kjiliance for securing expedition and uniformity in manufacturing. The trade territory embraces the entire United Stales witli a large export trade to Mexico, South America, Australia and Ni'W Zealand. The line of products endiraces perfumery, toilet articles, flavoring extracts and grocer's specialties. • A force of seventy hands is employed, and the annual output is very large to meet the demand, which is of continual expansion. The projirietors of llie business are Messrs. George H. Smith and Justin E. Smith, thoroughly exjier- ienced and practical numufacturers, and among Detroit's distin- guished trade factors, who have materially assisted in enhancing the city's general commercial interests. WILLIAMS, SHELEY & BROOKS. This house had its original fomidation in 1S15, an 1 was resolved into its prestnt n.-imeand style Feliruary 1, 1H90, as successors to Far- rand, Williams & Company. The firm as now constituted is compcetl of Jle.'-srs.William t'.Willianjs, Alanson Sheley and AlansonS.13 ooks. Its history has been a record of continuous successes and its present eminently judicious and capable management places it in a c-on- spi Pattorsons scliool, and in his fifteenth year entered the enijiloy of Fanand, Williams & ('i)nii)any. Bt'f^inning in an luimble cai)acily, lie successively filled all of the |)()sitions inciilent to the wholesale drug husiness, heconiins a nieinher of the firm of Fanand, Williams & C'am])any in Jainiary, 1SS2, and at the succession to that husiness of Williams, Sheley & Brooks Fehruary 1, 1S!)0, his name appeared in the announcement of the changed administration. 5Ir. Brooks and Jlr. Williams are the active partners, Jlr. Sheley not devoting his whole linn' .iiid attention to the business. Mr. Brooks is the Secretary of the I'liiinsular White Lead and Color Works, and the Secretary and Treasurer of the Latimer Cash Register Company. He was married in ISSO to a daughter of Hela ITuhhard, one of Detroit's distinguish! d men, and the author of " Jlemorials of a Half-Century,'' and valuahle <-ontri- butions to the pioneer literature of Wayne County. Mr. I'.rooks is a member of Detroit Athletic Association and Detroit Boat Club. He has been, sinc(^ his fifteenth year, continuously in his present busi- ness, in which he is an able, experienced and enterprising factor. He shares with Mr. Williams the management and active duties of the business and is also the buj'er for the firm. Although young in yeai'S, Mr. Brooks has demonstrated those signal abilities v/hich attach to successful merchants and which place them in the high positions they are fitted to hold. As a member of the firm of Williams, Sheley & Brooks, he has achieved a prominence through his experience in ami fidelity to the details of the bu.sincss that reflects uiion him great and meriteartment, was graduated from the Royal University of Munich, and is as an analytical chenn'st exceptionally cajiable. The firm are now turning out a large number of new and varied jiroducts made in the most skillful manner and which are meeting with readv sale wherever introiluced. The building occui)ied at 185 Jefferson ave- nue is five stoiics and afFord.s amjde accommodations and facilities for the expanding busines.s. The first year's output was ^100,000, and that of 18!t0 iji-r.t.OOO. The business is conduitii) on a strictly conservative basis and trade relations have been established in iMich- JAMES E. UAXlti & COMPANY'S WHOLESALK UKVH HOUSE. igan, Ohio and Indiana. The firm carry a full line of drugs, cliemi- cals, patent medicines and druggists sundries. JAMKS E. DAVIS & COMPANY. This firm, composed of Messrs. James E. Davis and George AV. Bissell, drug merchants, importers of druggists' sundries and manu- facturers of standard pharmaceutical jireparations and dealers in paints and oils, is located at 29, :51, 3:i and ;j.") Larned street, west, opposite the ])Ost-ofFice, and has the reiiutation of being identified Willi the leading drug interests of tlie c'ity. The house lias a notable record and its jiroprietors are prominently associated with the best development of the leading coniinercial interests of the city. T. PI. IIINCIIMAN & SONS, Wholesale Druggists. Prominent among tlie old land-marks of Detroit is the well-known house of T. H. Hinchman & Sons, \. bose line of trade comprises all the general requirements of druggists. The original establishment dates as far back in the early history of Detroit as the year 1819, the firm then being N. fhapin & Company, wliich afterwards changed to that of Chapin & Owen, who were succeeded by T. H. Hinchman. Mr. Hinchman is a veteran in the field of business men and has so often been before the public in close relations with the welfare and interests of the city in which he has so long resiiled, that multiplied words wouhl be superfluous as encomiums. The present jirosperoiis condition of this old established houj^e is due to his untiring sujiervision. Associated with him are John JI., Fdiil D. C. and Charles C. Hinchman, under the firm name iif T. II. llinchinan & Sons, their jilace of business being at 70 and 78 Jefferson avenue. The size of their building is -lOxK."! feet, where they employ about twenty-five assistants, and have numerous travelers on the road through the States of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana, over which their territory extends. Added to their com- jjlete facilities for supplying and shipi)ingto their customers is that greatest of all consiilerations, long life of i)racti(al exjierience in their line of trade. Mr. llinchmin's portrait apjiears on [lage l.j. SrOVES AND RANGES. DETROIT STOVE WORKS. The founilrv which afterw.ards became the Detroit Stove Works was established in 1800, ami was the first foundry of thi' kind in ojieration in the northwestern section of the United States. In 1804, this establishment was purchased by a stock coini>any, the principal member of which was the late Wni. H. Tetf t. The new company was incorporated with a capital of f.")(),000, under the name by which the concern has ever since been known, the Detroit Stove Works. In 180.") the capital of the company was increased to ^100,- 000, and subseipiently to $:!00,00ll. The Works now constitute one of the largest industrial establishments in Detroit, giving emidoy- nieiit to about 1.4(10 men, and melting sixty tons of iron daily. They cover ten acres of ground, the jilan: extemling from Jefferson avenue to the river. As shown in the illustration the establishment is admirably located for water transportation; it is also connected with all the railroads entering Detroit, by the Transit and Belt Line railways, the former of which lias a terminus within its yards, and the latter terminating only two blocks away. The superficial area.s jof the warehouse, the foundry dep.artmeiit and the mounting deparl- liiient floors are 108,117, 84,83:2 and 89,174 square feet respectively. iThese floor areas, together with those of a dozen minor shops and departments, aggregate a grand total of 3','5.01() scpiare feet. The various buildings comprised by the Works have been erected from time to time to meet the growing needs of the business; thej- are supplied with every appliance and convenience that the long exper- ience of the managers has been able to suggest or invent, and they have the reputation of constituting, as a whole, the best equipped and best arranged stove-manufacturing establishment in the United States. The general offices of the company are eh'gantly designed and finished, and are supjilied with every nuxlern convenience for the rapid dis|i.atch of its immense business. The Offices and the Works extend from i;i20 to KiOO Jefferson avenue, and are reached liy the Jefferson avenue. Loop and Fort street lines of street rail- way. A large portion of the company's business direct with dealers is done from its Chicago branch, located at 2G9 and 271 South Canal street, and under the management of W. M. Shaddinger. The Eastern trade is cared for b\- a branch in charge of Walbridge & C>)mpany, at 317, 319 and 321 Washington street, Buffalo. The concern has many European agencies, the jirincipal ones of which are those in Frankfurt, tiermany ; London, England ; Brussels, Bel- gium; Paris, France and Vienna, Austria. It also has a fine export trade in South America, Australia and Tasmania. Of the goods manufactured by the Detroit Stove Works it need only be said that Jewel stoves and ranges, n.ade in more than 8(10 different sizes and styles and adapted to eveiy form of fuel, ]iossess all the best features known to the modern art of stove-making. Re-modeled annually to meet the ever-changing requirements of the trade, they are everywhere regarded as the standard of excellence in stove con- struction and design, and the yearly sale of more that CO.OOO Jewels is sufficient evidence that their liigh excellence is aii)ire -"'-S . So. H :>•&■;- 00 ■i H = .^•3 i-H 2;2!g ^ Q .+J OS ►J -3 .2 go- 1 > «i «>^ % i^ LEWIS H. CHA.MliKULIN. WTLLIAM H. IRVINR. tionalist and a most amiable and courteous gentleman ; among his immediate friends he is the soul of good fellowship. As a citizen he is public-spirited and generous, and no resident of Michigan's metroi> olis is held in higher esteem. His friends are legion. Lewis H. Cii.\mberlin was l)orn in Wayne County, Michigan, in 184:i. When he was fourteen years of age Ins parents removed to Ypsilanti, Michigan. There he atti'iided the Seminary, and acquired the practical knowledge and the mental habits wliicli, when ajjplied in the administration of business affairs in after years, proved of inestimable value to him. On (luitting the Semi- nary he engaged as clerk in a hardware store; but a few montli.* later ho became possessed of the war sjiirit, and I'nlisled as a l)rivate m the Twenty-fourth Miehigan Infantry. For three years he shared the varying fortunes of liis regiment, wliieh jiartiiipated in all tlie princi|)al l).ittles and skirmishes of the Army of the Potomac from 186:J to tlie I'lose of the rebellion. In November, |.s()3, he v.as pro- moted to a First Lieutenaiu-y, and in July, ls(i4, he was promoted to be Adjutant of llie Kegiment. He was mustered out of service w.th his command on the UOth of June, 1865. Keturning to Michi DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, 4.3 gan, lie settled in Detroit and entered the employ of Buhl, Ducharme & Company. In 1873 he was admitted to a partnersliip in the estab- lishment of Prentiss Brothers & Company, wliolesale hardware mer- chants. Selling his interests with that firm in 18T8, he engaged with the Detroit Stove Works, of wliich he is the present Secretary and one of its Directors. He is also a Director in the Detroit Spiral Tube Company and in the Central Car Supplj' Company. A quick and clear discernment of facts and their relations, a trained judg- ment, a ready grasp of details, a faculty of practical, constructive planning, a habit of persistent industry — these qualifications, com- bined with a quiet, dignified, and amiable manner, are the charac- teristics which have marked Mr. Chamberlin's business career, and which assume a large importance in their daily application to the affairs of the Detroit Stove Works. William H. Irvine was born March 4, 1849. He was grad- uated from the Detroit High School at an early age, and very soon thereafter accepted a situation in the office of the Detroit Stove Works, of which the late W. H. Teflft was then President. Sustain- ing the reputation of his family, whose members were conspicuous for their integrity and stability of character, he soon won the confi- dence and esteem of Sir. Tefft, and was made his trusted clerk and LAFAYETTE CROWLEY. confidential man. In this position he shared all the vicissitudes and cares which fell to the lot of those men who were the pioneers in the stove-manufacturing industry in Detroit, and who, by their untiring labors, promoted its development to its present proportions. He is now the Treasurer and Cashier of the Detroit Stove Works, in which capacity he has served for many years. He is also one of its Directors, and is the Secretary of the Frankfort Furnace Company. As the head of the financial department of tlie Detroit Stove Works Mr. Irvine has, by his undeviating integrity, won the confidence and warm personal regard of a large circle of business men ; and this probity, combined with a genial manner, a thorough knowledge of business methods, and a rare business sagacity, renders his daily services of great importance to the concern. Lafayette CRO^^'LEY was born August 16, 1846, at Cincinnati, Ohio. Quitting school when he was only twelve years of age, he at once^entered upon the active duties of life. For two years he worked on a farm belonging to his father, when, in January, 1801, at the age of fourteen (even then, as ever afterwards, ambitions and perservering), he apprenticed Iiimself to learn the trade of molder. He continued to work at this trade till 1870. when he succeeded his father as foreman of the molding shop of Chamberlain & Company, of Cincinnati. He retained this position until the spring of 1879, when he went to St. Louis, Missouri, to accept the formanship of the shops of tlie Excelsior Manufacturing Company (G. F. Filley). In 1880 he came to Detroit, having previously engaged to act as forc' man of the Detroit Stove Works. He had held the formanship in this establishment but a short time when he was promoted to the superintendency, a position which he still holds. He is also one of the Directors of the concern. A comprehensive, thorough, and practical knowledge of all the allied mechanical arts employed in stovemaking, a mind in which progressive ideas easily find lodg- ment, prompt executive abilities, a sound judgment and an affable but decisive manner of speech and bearing, abundantl}- qualify Mr. Crowley to discharge the diverse duties devolving upon him, and render his services to the Detroit Stove Works well-nigh indispens- able. THE MICHIGAN STOVE COMPANY. In the manufacture of stoves and ranges Detroit occupies a not- ably liigh position and one which invests its representatives witli distinguished merit as h.aving achieved continuous successes. The Michigan Stove Company, which has grown into such proportions as to render it the largest and distinctively the most representative in the manufacture of stoves and ranges anywhere, has essentially contriliuted to the possession by Detroit of one of the strongest levers of its commercial i)rogress. From its foundation and incor- ation in 1871 the Michigan Stove Company has won for its jiroducts a continually increasing sale and the general satisfaction which has been the result of their superiority of construction and adaptaljility to prescribed purposes. Tha factory buildings, 1032 to 1054 Jeffer- son avenue, are 300 x 700 feet in dimensions, (the grounds constitut- ing an area of over sixteen acres), and are thoroughly equipped with improved machinery and appliances and every requisite of the extensive manufacture. The daily product of stoves and ranges, which comprise "the only complete line of cooking and heating stoves and ranges, made under one name, one trade-mark, and one equal and uniform grade of merit," averages from 250 to 300 and from 60,000 to 70,000 yearly. Employment is afforded to from 1,000 to 1,200 hands, whose monthly wages aggregate $40,000. The material used is the best grade of the Lake Superior, Hanging Rock, Ohio, and the Chattanooga, Tenn. and Birmingham, Ala. iron mines. A specialty is made of aluminum mixed with cast iron for the production of the "Garland" stoves and ranges, the only line of stoves and ranges in the world made from this valuable combination. The employment of aluminum in combination with cast iron pro- duces smooth castings, prevents cracking, gives additional strength, prevents blow-holes, removes chill and contributes benefit to iron in every particular. This industry, in the management and direction of which the officials of the company have shown the most conspicious merit, has far out-strippetl in quality, variety and extent of products any simi- lar manufactory in the world, and stands a noble monument of the enterprise and zeal of its founders, through whom it has reached its culmination of distinguished priority. Large branch houses for the sale of the "Garland" stoves and ranges have been established and are in successful operation at Chicago, Buffalo, New York City, and in several foreign cities. The nature and extent of the business con- ducted by this company may be inferred from the fact that their customers are in every part of the habitable globe, and tliat the name of "Garland," as applied to the stoves and ranges manufac- tured by them, is as well-known in every land and clime as are their virtues, which are proclaimed by the millions who have found in their use a soverign blessing and an abiding comfort. The oflicers of the company are Messrs. Jeremiah Dwyer, President; George H. Barbour. Vice-President and Manager; C. A. Ducharme, Secretary; Merrill B. Mills, Treasurer; F. W.Gardner, Manager Chicago House, who with F. F. Palms constitute the Ixiard of directors, all of whom are leading and representative business men and pledged to the high- est interest of Detroit and its strong grasp of the surest elements of commercial and manufacturing progress and importance. The accompanving full page illustration of the works of the Michigan Stove Company at Detroit and its branches at Chicago, Buffalo and New York, fittingly portrays the extent of its possibilities by which it has achieved its laudable distinction and prominence. 44 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, as z; i- ft) ^ C i; -'CDO DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, 45 CRACKERS AND CAKES. The distinction of being the first cracker baker in Detroit belongs to Mr. Clark, who began the industry in 1830. His shop was located on Woodbridge Street.in rear of tlie Michigan Exchange, and his operations were conducted on a small scale in the most primitive manner. Five years later Mr. John Copland established a factory for the production of crackers with more enlarged facilities, at the corner of Woodbridge and Randolph streets, on the site of the present Detroit Cracker Company. At that time the only system of making crackers was by hand, and the consumption of a half barrel of flour was deemed a full day's work for one man, the process being necessarily slow and tedious. The introduction of the first hand machine in Detroit, by a Mr. Osborn, in 1845, represented an improvement which was speedily adopted by Mr. Copland, and thenceforward, for seventeen j-ears, the Detroit cracker product nas made by its employment. The outbreak of the civil war cre- ated a demand for crackers beyond the ability of existing Detroit bakers to supply, with such facilities as they then commanded. In 1803, Messrs. Marvin & Guthrey, of New York, set up in Detroit a Reel oven, by the use of which they made a quality of bread char- acterized as "Aerated." This innovation was soon discovered by Mr. Copland to mean a serious injury to his business, and with his brother, Mr. A. W. Cop- land, since one of Detroit's jiostmasters, he purchased the new plant and fixtures of Marvin & Guthrey, re-arranging the factory and introducing additional machinery and ap|)liances for cracker baking. Thus was inaugurated the firm of A. W. & John Copland, who, in 1864, made the first crackers in Detroit from a Reel oven, run by steam power. Since this period the Detroit cracker industry has steadily grown and prospered, and to-day there are five large factories in successful operation, whose combined daily product will aggre- gate 600 barrels of crackers, entaOing a consumption of 150 barrels of flour, besides the other relations of the baking industry, such as sweet goods and fancy cakes. Detroit takes high rank among the cities of the country in this species of manufacture. The jirincipal product of the Detroit bakers in the cracker line is the XXX butter, wafer, soda and oyster crackers. While over-production in the cracker and biscuit manufacture in Detroit has of late years been a subject of complaint, it has been efl'ectually remedied by the superior quality of the products, and to-day the consumer properly appre- ciates the fact, as shown by the rapidly increasing consumption by every family of these articles of indispensable consii.leration. Var- ious associations of cracker bakers have been organized during the past few years, resulting in greatly improved products and uniform- ity of prices, as well as in the interchange of progressive ideas and methods, which have been found highly conducive to the interests of both the manufacturer and consumer. In these Associations were a number of representatives of the industry, thoroughly acquainted with the needs of the business, and they organized the United States Baking Company. Alexander W. Copland was born in London, England, in 1829. His father, a colonel in the British army, died whe;i tlie son was but four years old. He began his business life at an early age in tlie bakery of his elder brother, John, at Detroit. The estate left by his father was adequate for the support of the family and no very hard work was required of him. His first venture in trade on his own account was in the grocery line, upon the site tif the present establishment of Mabley & Company. Afterward he was engaged for several years in the baking business at Sarnia, but returned to Detroit and resumed the baking business in partnership with his brother, whom he bought out after a time. The establishment was located at the corner of Woodbridge and Randolph streets. Just prior to the outbreak of the civil war, he obtained control of the patents of the Reel oven and introduced aerated bread in Detroit. These new processes in baking proved very profitable. He i "moved his busi- ness to 20 Monroe Avenue, where it so greatly prospered that he was forced to open a branch under the Russell House, which was very successfully conducted for several years. He subsequently removed to Woodward avenue, between Woodbridge and Atwater streets. In 1883 he transferred the business to Mr. Lawrence Dejiew, his son- in-law and former partner in the business. After retiring for a year, he again entered into business with his son, H. B. Copland, and up to the time of his death, September 29th, 1889, maintained an interest in the establishment, located at the corner of Randolph and Wood- bridge streets. His whole life was devoted to his business and from it he amassed a considerable fortune, Mr. Copland was elected an alderman from the old second ward in 1865, and re-elected in 1867, serving two full terms. He was president of the old fire depart- ment from 1880 to 1883, and a member of the poor commission from May 31st, 1S79, to January 28th, 1881. In December, 1885, he was appointed postmaster by President Cleveland and was still the incumbent of tliat office at the time of his deatli, September 29th, 1889. Ho was, in politics, a Democrat, and generally recognized for wise and prudent counsel. He was chairman of the Congressional Democratic Committee and for some time a member of the State Central Committee, serving as chairman, a delegate to numerous State Conventions and a delegate from the First District to the Democratic National Convention at St. Louis in 1876, when Samuel J. Tilden was nominated for the Presidency. He left a wife, three sons and three daughters. He was a staunch Episcopalian and an upright man in all of his duties and relations in life. THE UNITED STATES BAKING COMPANY was incorporated in May, 1890, with a capital of $5,000,000, and is a consolidation of thirty or more prominent Cracker Bakeries, ALEXANDER \V. COPLAND. which compose the Branches of the company. The Vail-Crane Branch, Copland Branch, Depew Branch and Jlorton Branch are in Detroit. The United States Baking Company is composed of practical representatives of the baking business, who own and control its stock. All the stockholders of the United States Baking Company are actually engaged in tlie baking business, and bring into the company the requisite qualifications and experience to meet successfully all competition. Its capital of |5, 000,000 will, in the near future, be increased to .$10,000,000, and it proposes faithfully to protect its interests by employing the facilities naturally arising from an inti- mate knowledge of the demands of the trade, which it will be pre- pared to serve with the best and most salable products. The Detroit Branches of the United States Baking Company are among the city's distinguished and leading institutions, and have afforded to the Company into which th^y are merged the advan- tages secured from their long and honorable records as manufac- turers of appreciable goods. The Company is establishing an extensive plant in Boston suitably to enlarge and extend their facilities and operations, to supply the trade of the country with 46 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, dieir goods, wliicli have been gri'atly iiiliaiio-ii in valuf by iuiprovea processes and uniforniity of excellence. W. S. Crane, the Second Vice-President of the United States Baking Company was born in Yates County, New York, in 1«43. At tlie age of 14 lio removed to Ypsilanti, Michigan, where ho com- menced his preliiMinary education and where he began his business career as a clerk in a dry goods store, at ^1.1(0 i)er week and board. He established a grocery store at Yjisilanti in 1808, and in 1873 removed to Detroit and eiigageil in tlio baking business, as a member of the firm of Vail, Crane and Curtis, at l:iO Randolph street. The panic of 187:{ threatened seriously to imperil the fortunes of the house and led to the withdrawal of Jlr. Curtis from the firm. Vail & Crane, however, surmounted all tlieir difficulties and from that time suc- cessfully i)rosecuted their business interests up to 18S.'5, when the Vail & Crane Cracker Company was organized and incorporated, with a capital of $100,000. In June, 1800, the Vail & Crane Cracker Company was nn'rged into tlie United States JSaking Company, and Jlr. Crane elected the Second Vice-President of the corporation, a position he is eminently (jualified to fill and one in which he has e.xhibited the most signal evidence of enterprising abilities. Mr. Crane is a member of the Central M. E. Church, a stockholder in the Detroit Electric IJght and Power Company, a member of the executive conmiittee of the Merchants and Manufacturers' Exchange and a member of the Board of Trad*. W. S. CRANE. {jEoitOE M. Vail, a veteran cracker manufacturer, has been for over tliirty-fivo yi'ars <'ontinm)Usly engaged in this industry in Mieliigan. lie acquired his trade of cracker baker at Syracuse, N. v., and after some years established a bakery at Ypsilanti,delivermg goods by wagons to small dealers in the adjacent towns and villages. He removed to Detroit in 1873 and became a member of the firm of Vail, Crane & Curtis, located at i:!;i Randolph street. In December, 187;?, Vail & Crane succeeded to the business, .and in 1876 moved into the John ( opland factory, corner Randolph and Woodbridge streets, which, in Se[iteMd)er, 1S77, was destroyed by fire, but rebuilt and in running order witliin si.\ weeks. The business of the firm, with the introiluction of new and improved processes, was of rapid expan- sion, and the Vail & Crane Cracker Company took high rank among the Detroit representatives of the baking industry. At the organi- zation of the United States Baking Company, in May, 1800, the Vail & Crane Cracker Company became one of its branches and brought GEORGE. .M. VAIL. into the consolidation one of its most valuable factore. Mr. Vail isa great lover and p.ilron of field sports and is intensely fond of driving his magnificent team of hor.ses. He has never been engaged in any otlier business venture, confining his whole time and attention to the manufacture of crackers, cakes and such goods as belong to the baking line. Since the age of forty he has eschewed the use of tobacco, by which he considers his i)liysical strength greatly increased. He is a regular attendant at the Fort Street Presby- LAWKENCE DEPEVV. DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, 47 terian C^luircli, and is in all respects an exemplary citizen and one (if Detroit's most eminent trade factors. Lawuence Depew was born in Peekskill, N. Y., September 6th 1841. His ancestors were of the Huguenot race. His family were early settlers at Peekslcill on the Hudson, where Ids father, Isaac Depew, resided on the farm which liad been the home of his ances- tors for 200 years. His early years were spent in the old homestead, and his education was completed at Poughkeepsie College, from which institution he was graduated in the class of 1863. He studied law with his brother, the Hon. Chauncey M. Depew, one year in Peekskill, after which he removed to New York City and entered into business with the wholesale liouse of John W. Hait & Company, at 129 "Water street. In 1870 he took Horace Greeley's advice, " "o West, young man," and moved to Detroit, there connecting himself with the Hon. C. M. Garrison, who did a wiiolesale grocery business in the old Board of Trade building until 18T5, when he removed to Jefferson avenue. Mr. Garrison retiring the same year, the business was continued by Mr. Dej^evv, under the firm name of Lawrence Depew & Company, as sole proprietor. In 1883 he entered into the manufac- HENRY B. COPLAND. turing line, purchasing tlie wholesale cracker and biscuit business of his father-in-law, Mr. A. W. Copland, which he carried on very successfully, for the goods manufactured are e-xcelled by none, equalled by few, and are to be found in every town in Michigan, and parts of the states of New York, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. He sold out his business June 25th, 1890, to the United States Baking Company, by which he is retained as manager of the Depew branch, Detroit, Michigan. Upon his maternal side Mr. Depew is connected with the family of the celebrated Roger Sherman, of Connecticut, his mother being the granddaughter of the sister of that illustrious statesman. Henry B. Copland, the son of Alexander W. Copland, and the manager of the Copland branch of the United States Baking Com- pany, was born at Detroit, November 17th, 1860. His education was received at the military school at Orchard Lake, Michigan, and the River View Slilitary Academy at Poughkeepsie, New York. He became associated with the Detroit Cracker Company five years ago, a relation in which he exhibited the most commendable and enterprising (jualities, which led to his present position as man- ager of the Copland branch of the United States Baking Company. ROBERT MORTON. In this connection Mr. Copland has demonstrated the most valuable business capabilities and' shown a zeal and ambition which must rapidly advance him to greater honors. Robert Morton was born at Dunoon, Argyleshire, Scotland, September 17tli, 184.'). He came to the United States, arriving at Brooklyn, N. Y., in 1850, in company with his parents. His early education was received in the Brooklyn public schools. His first A. W. t'OPLAND. 48 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, venture in business was in 1871, when lie engaged in baking at Winilsor, Ontario, where lie continueil three years. , Coming to Detroit in 1876, he resumed the baking business at 7:i7 Fort street west, afterward removing to Grand River avenue. In 1884 the pres- ent factory was built, more thoroughly to accommodate the expand- ing nature of the business, whicli Iiad, uj) to thio time, been conducted under the name of Robert Jlorton. In the same year the Morton Baking Company wasorganizel, and in IMH) became a branch of the United States Baking Company. Mr. Morton has recently made a tour of Great Britain, for the purpose o[ inspecting the systems of baking as there jiracticed. lie is a distinguislud niaiuifacturer, and a citizen pledged to the best and higliest commercial advancement of Detroit. AlkxaNDER \V. Cupl.A.Ni), a younger son of AU>.\ander W. Cop- land, and associated witli the comluct of the Copland branch of the United States Baking Cany, was born at Detroit, November i7th, 18C8. He received his jireliminary education in the Detroit public schools and sul)se(piently attemleil tlie iShattuck Military Academy at l-'ariliault, Minnesota. For three years he occupied tlie position of assistant cashier in the money order department of the Detroit IJOstofHce, and has been associated with the Detroit Cracker Com- pany, since its inceptit>n with the Copland branch of the United States Baking Company, where his services have been highly esteenu'd as being directed to the details of tlie business in an enter- prising and progressive manner. TOBACCO AND CIGARS. The history of the manufacture of tobacco in Detroit covers a period of nearly half a century, tl>e original venture in this relation having been undertaken by Mr. (Jeorge Miller, about 1811. In 1840 Mr. Isaac S. Miller succeeded to the business, which was conducted in tlie most primitive manner in a one-and-a-half-story frame struct- ure on Woodward avenue, opposite tlie olTl Mariners' Churi-h. The motive power of the factor}- was furnished by an old blind horse in the cellar, which, after years of service, died literally in the har- ness. The crudest machinery and appliances were employed in the manufacture of the fine cut chewing and smoking tobaccos, which were sold at the nominal rate of three cents per paper package of one ounce. The excellent and rapid railway systems of the present ■ni ^1 M ^^Hiijj^^vjK i|^ 1 ^^^^^^^^^^R^B^JH^^^riB ' ^ JOHN .J. BAUI.EY. HIR.VM GRANGER, were then but imperfectly foreshadowed, the only steam railroad in Mlcliigan being tlie Jlichigan Central, at that date completed as far as Yiisilanti. The Detroit tobac:^-o jiroduct, therefore, lunl to be trans- ported to the tributary trade districts in wagons. Among the first salesineii in Iheeiiiploy of Jlr. Miller was Mr. Hiram Granger, who con- tinued in that relation for ten years. Mr. Granger is still engaged in the tobacco manufacture in this city and is identified as the oldest living tobacconist at the West. Mr. Daniel Scotten became asso- ciated with the firm of Thomas C. Miller & Company, as a partner in 18ri3, a relation which he sustained until 18,5R, when disjiosing of his interest to Thomas C. Miller, he formed a partnership with Messrs. Iliraiu Granger and ^Villiam R. Lovett under the firm name of Scotten, Granger & Lovett, as successors to the business estab- lished by Brevier & Robinson. John J. Baglcy, who had, like Granger, been in Miller's employ, with a capital of .^."i. 0(1(1, loaned him by W. N. Carpenter, established a factory for the manufacture of tobacco in 18o3, thus laying the foundation of what has since become one of Detroit's most prominent and progressive industries, Mr. K. C. Barker, one of the first to engage in tlie tobacco trade in Detroit as a traveling salesman, began the manufacture of tobacco on his own account in 184S, and left behind him the grand memorial of the present American Eagle Tobacco Company. Thomas C. Miller, a son of Isaac S. Sliller, and a former lawyer of Auburn, N. Y., succeeded to the business found(riately arranged in Detroit, has a frontage of 70 feet by 138 feet in depth, extending to an alley 20 feet wide. and is seven stories in height. It is sulistantially built of brick and is ade(iuately supi)hed with light and air. "It is,*' in the lang- uage of Mr. Simpson, De- troit's building inspector, "very strong and sul)stan- tial, well ventihited and practically fire ])roof." The flooring is ci instruct- ed ujxm the j)lan of what is known as "mill con- struction," tlie l)eams be- ing i>laced about 4 feet apart, and in jilaces where the dust and other pro- moters of combustion may be dejwsited, the flooring is uplield by be iins and girders, wliicli jiroduce an unobstructed ceil big and wliicli, between the layers of flooring is absolutely fire proof. The jiosition of the columns, one upon the other, prevents the settling of fl(H)rs in an un- equal manner through tlie shrinkage of the supports, thereby decreasing the pressure ujwn tlie walls. The iirincipal stairway is on the norlliwest of the GLOBE TOBACCO CO.'S FACTORY. building, and is an inclosed passage of brick, 15x15, having stairs of easy ascent, five feet, six inches wide. At the extremity of the final stairway landing are door-waj's which are constructed so as to open outwardly, and in juxtaposition to tliese is the elevator shaft, protected by a brick environment At the front on the east is an additional stairway, five feet in width. As having been the original tobacco factory in the United States to introduce and operate successfully an electric motive principle, which furnishes ample power for the extensive mechan- ical aiijiurtenances as well as a powerful lighting system, the Globe Tobacco Company aciiuins a special claim for enteprising and judicious management and directions. The nine electric motors are apportioned among the departments where their varying power is to be utilized, aiid hence each is operateil separately and with a valuable economy as to belting, shafting and fuel. The chief motive principle is supplied by one 50-horse power dynamo. The Company have invested several thousand dollars in tlie patents •f special machinery of their own invention, and they are by this means, and the aid of 120 skilled operatives empowered to produce their exceptionally salable and meritorious goods. Their princiiial brands for which has been acquired almost unixi-rsal sale throughout the United States and Canada are the Globe Fine Cut and Hand Made Flake Cut, the generally acknowledged acme of the manufacturers' art and the summuiii 6o/i«»iof delicious chewing and smoking accomplishments The company annually employs 100,000 jiounds of the purest granulated sugar and .50,000 pounds of licorice as flavoring for 1,100.(1(10 pounds of leaf tobacco, to which are added 95,000 pounds of tin foil in the production and preparation for market of about 1,250,000 [lounds of their celebrated chewing and smoking tobaccos. They also annually purchase about $45,000 worth of Kentucky leaf tobacco for the manufacture of chewing and .f;75,000 worth of the Virginia growth for smoking tobacco. The daily output of the fac- tory is 8,000 pounds, of which 1,500 pounds are of the celebrated flake cut protluct. The company owns and operates large curing establishments in the princijial tobacco- growing districts, to deter- mine the unifiinu quality of the leaf, which needs the most critical care to insure freedom from cli- matic abuses. The Adt drying machine, used by this company for the prop- er preparations of the leaf material for smoking to- bacco, has a capacity of 9,000 iiounds j>er day, and its operation effectually relieves the tobacco of the excess of nicotine which renders it obnoxious and injurious when smoked. Tlie packages used by the Globe Tobacco Company and which are fully covered by U. S. patents are handsome and con- venient tin boxes in the shape of cigar boxes, with glass covers. Their glass jars and barrels are unique in construction and are es- pecially adapted to secure the uninterrupted mois- ture of the toliacco. The trade territory, which to a large extent embraces the U. S. and Canada, is fully covon-d by 12 traveling salesmen. The Company are e-xtensive advertisers and own three large job presses by which they put out tons of printed matter. They make a specialty of the finest goods and guarantee their ])urity and excellence. The Globe Tobacco Company has afforded to Detroit one of its most valuable trade factors, through its enter- prising and highly jirogressive management, and given to the world an example full to 1H.-)S, when forming a iiartnershi]) with his brother. Feist, who had arrived in Detroit during that year, the firm of Rothschild & Urotber was established, the business being removed to the building opposite the Uiddle House. In 18(12, Kaufman S.. another brother, was admitted to partnershii). In the previous year another removal had been made to Firemen's Hall, corner Jefferson avenue and Randolph street, where the busi- ness was continued up to 181)9, to which had been added the impor- tation of smokers' articles. The firm at this time controlled the largest manufactory of cigars west of New York, under the name of the 'Western t'igar Company. In 187.5 the firm changed the busi- ness of cigar niannfactuiers to importers of leaf tobacco and jiackers of domestic growth, and they are now known as the largest house in this line west of New York, the annual duty )iaid on imiKirted stock aggregating ij:!50,(l(10. Mr. Sigmuiul Rothschid has three sons, Harry and Louis, members of the firm of Rothschild & Brother, and Fred, in the cigar nianafacturlng businesss in Chicago. Enterj)rise and iirogress are the watch-words which have been kept in view by Sigmund Rothschill, who may justly be classed among Detroit's most reputable and distinguished merchants. K.\UI'MAX S. ROTHSCIULD, a younger brother of Sigmund Roths- child^ and a member of tlie firm of Rothschild & Brother, was born at Frankfort-on-the-Main, October loth, 1838. Coming to Detroit from the place of his nativity in lS(i2, lie joined his brothers in the business of cigar manufacturing. I'rior to coming to this country ho had been, for seven years, engaged in the flour and grain busi- ness at Frankfort-on-lhe-Main. In 1870 he was admitted to a full partnership in the business, which he has since lield. Like his brothers he has exhibited rare abilities of management and discre- tion and lias matiMially assisted in placing the business in a leading and prominent position. \ k%- r) ^ Mi ^^^Km^^ LOUIS KCTTNAUER. AUOUST KUTTXAUER. LOUIS KUTTNAUER & COMPANY. Louis Kuttnauer, head of the house of Louis Kuttnauer & Com- pany, was born at Frankfort-on-the-Main, Germany, April 4, 1847. He was apprenticed wlien very young to a cloth merchant, serving in tliat relation until si.vteen years old. after which ho traveled for two years for a wholesale grocery and cigar manufacturing firm of Franklort-oM-tlie-Main. In IHIi.'i he came to tlie United States, locating at Baltimore, where he obtained a position as a general bookkeeper tor an oy ter and fruit packing establishment. Here he remained for two years, after wliich he went to AVheeling, West Virginia, establishing himself in the tobacco and cigar business which, after conducting for one year, he sold out, coming to Detroit and engaging in the manufacture of cigars and the business of general tobacco ortion of the radiator is of faultless construction and gracefully conforms to the general harmony and beauty of the design. The top is flat, unbreakable, and is so coii- ...••' ^-^ .;/■ MICIIKIAN UADIATOli * IHd.N M A.M'FACTURINO COMl'A.NY S WdKKS. DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 59 structed as to prevent the accumulation of dust and dirt. The loojis are firmly adjusted and held in place by patent steel screws, which make a permanent joint, and which becomes tigliter the longer it remains in place. Tlie Michigan Radiator and Iron Manufacturing Company is the largest industry of its kind in the world ; commands an abundant capital ; employs 400 hands, and finds a market for its products throughout the United States and the continent of Europe. Tlie jilant is the most extensive of its character in the United States, and possesses every requisite in machinery and the most improved appliances for manufacturing. The officers of the Company _ belong to the great industrial representatives of Detroit, and are prominently identified with the city's material and pro- gressive interests. John B. Dyar, President Michigan Radiator and Iron Manufacturing Company, was born at Romeo, Michigan, June 2G, 1846, where he received his education. His first venture in business was as a dry goods dealer in his native town, in which he was engaged for five years. Coming, sub- sequently, to Detroit, he became the propritor and manager of the Detroit Metal and Heating Works, sustaining those relations for thirteen years. In 1888 he developed and organ- ized the Michigan Radiator and Iron Manufacturing Com- pany, of which he is the President and a member of its Boa d of Directors. Mr. Dyar is one of the Directors of the Commercial National Bank, and is interested in steamboats and various other considerations. lie is a member of the various Detroit Clubs and an enterprising representative of the city's forward move to a highly progressive identity. DETROIT HEATING AND LIGHTING COMPANY, The largest manufacturers in the country of Hot Water Heaters exclusively, and best known as makers of the cele- brated "Bolton," commenced business under this style, in 1888, when it absorbed the Combination Gas Machine Com- pany. In 1887 Messrs. Berry Brothers, principal stockholders in the Combination Gas Machine Company, having become interested in the Heating business, opened negogiations with George Bolton, of Peterborough, Ontario, a heating engineer of over thirty years experience, and owning a boiler of most effective and novel con- struction. The firm obtained rights for the TTnited States. In the fall of 1887 the}' set uji sonii' sample Heaters in Detroit, and their in such high regard by the trade and others who have had an oppor- tunity to become acquainted with its merits, that, in the selection of an apparatus, the Bolton is, perhaps, the first in the mind of the purchaser. In Detroit, especially, it has a very strong hold, as its many users and the class of buildings it warms conclusively show. We illustrate, herewith, some specimen residences heated by this system, and the expressions of satisfaction the Company have received from their owners and hundei-eds of other delighted users of the Bolton can give an idea, perhaps, of the standing of this heater Residenco of AV. \ Heated by Bolton Heater, iiilielj) Detroit, Micliit'^iu. Mason & Rice, Architects, Detroit. 4 '-m i; "V and why it deserves its prestijje. Full particulars of the system and methods of the Detroit Heating and Lighting Company, can be found in their handsome illustrated book, "Warmth for Winter Homes," which they send free of charge to any who are interested in the subject of house warming. The Company's factory and home Office is at the corner of Lieb :ii,d Wight streets, where the Combination Gas Machine is also manufactured. This is an apparatus for lighting all classes of buildings remote from the supply of city gas, and is the oldest and most reliable apparatus in the market, having been in use, in many instances, for twenty-five years with- out a single break or failure. Most of the Grosse Pointe residences are lighted by the Combination Gas Machine and it is almost imiversally known, machines having been in operation in South America, Australia and the Sandwich Islands for a number of years. A very exhaustive and entertaining description of this apparatus is given in the Company's handsome pamphlet, " Light for Evening Hours," which can be had for the asking. Since the establishment of the business of both the Heater and Gas Machines the Detroit Heating and Lighting Company have established large branches in New York, Chicago, Boston, St. Louis, New Orleans and Dallas, Texas, and in every prominent city in the United States tlieir interests are looked after, and their goods are on exhibition by the leading members of the trade. ];,'^i ictir.; of WlLLIAJI H. WeLLS Heated by Dulloa Heater. F.stj , JelTerso^ Avonae, Detroit, IVIiehis:an. W. H. Miller, jijclutect, Ithaca, New York. The Detroit Radiator Company are extensive man- ufacturers of Steam Radiators. Tlieir works are located at the corner of Lincoln avenue and Grand Trunk Railway. manufacture in Detroit was soon after commenced. In 1888 this industry was united with the Combination Gas Machine Company under the name of the Detroit Heating and Lighting Company. Although not yet five years since the introduction of the Bolton into the United States, the Detroit Heating and Lighting Company have, by reason of the Heater's excellent record in the cold climates of Manitoba and Quebec, and the high degree of satisfaction it has given its many users in this country, placed the Bolton foremost among the many hot water heaters on the market to-day. It is held PAINTS, OILS, GLASS, ETC. As applied to our local industries, there are probably few cities of the size of Detroit that possess better facilities for the rapid growth and developement of the various arts and manufactures, generally, and, more especially, upon which the trade in Paints, Colors and Oils has a direct bearing and an intimate relation. While our city has many other resources that share in its develope- ment, it is an undoubted fact that to its great manufacturing 6o DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, interests Detroit owes its remarkable progress. Its extensive Car Works, its Carriage Works, its Bridge and Iron AVorks, its Linseed Oil Works, ils Wliite Lead and Color Works ami ils various fine and useful Art Works render the commodity, of Paints and Oils a most important fs succeeded by IJeid and Hillsin 1871, and identified as tlie leading and most extensive dealers in Jlichigan in Glass, Paints, Oils, Varnishes, Wall I'aper, etc. In ISTD Mr. Keid dissolved his association with Mr. Hills, and established his pi-esent business, which has been attended with uninterrupted successes. 5Ir. Reid was the first dealer west of New York to carry plate glass in stock and still maintains that distinction in the relation of being the most extensive aning clerk, in which he continued until the change was made to the Detroit White Lead Works and the removal of their office, when he became assoiiated with John in the painters' supply bussiness, which they conducted with mai'ked success. William acted as the manager of this venture and John gave his attention to the business in the same line which he had previously established on Randolph street. When John embarked in business for himself he had hut §200 incash, but he possessed unlimited credit, and during the nine years he comlucled business on Randolph street he was eminent- ly successful. Selling out his Randolph street store in 1874, he pur- chased an interest in the Detroit White Lead Works, the style of the DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 6i firm being changed to Worcester, Boydell & Company. William, during this whole period, had been personally conducting the busi- ness in which John owned an interest. In 1875 Worcester, Boydell & Company failed and John went to England, where he remained five months. Tlie failure was not occasioned by any neglect or want of energy on John's part, but to the unreasonable and unnatural use of the business cajiital by his partners. Returning from England in 1876, John formed a co-partnership with William, and they began the manufacture of paints in a small room over Michel's machine sliop at the corner of Fort and Beaubien streets. Together they possessed but .f 1,000 in cash and tlie stock of the Congress street store valued at between .|4,000 and !|;5,000. They exhausted their cash capital in the i^urchase of machinery for grinding paints and were jalaced in an embarrassing jjosition as to finding the way to secure raw material for manufacturing. But a friend in need came to the rescue, and to him Boydell Brothers ascribe the foundation of their subsequent remarkable business successes. This gentleman, Mr. William H. Thompson, Piesident of the Missouri Lead and Oil Company, of St. Louis, Missouri, expressed to Mr. John Boydell, during a conversation about this time his most unqualified commen- dation in the declaration that he could have any amount of goods he wanted, and such goods as his concern (the Missouri White Lead and Oil Com]iany) did not make, the Boj-dell Brothers could pur- chase elsewheie, using his name as reference. To inquiries concern- ing tlieir responsibility, Mr. Thompson's reply would be: "Sell Boydell Brotliers any amount, and if they don't pay, I will.'' In 1878, Boydell Brothers in order to secure better accommodations for tlieir large and increasing business, removed to the corner of Second and Larned streets. Outgrowing the capacities there, they, in 1880, removed to their present commodious and thoroughly equipped factory and salesroom. The facilities for manufacturing are of the latest and most improved character, and include specially devised machinery and all necessary appliances for conducting the manu- facture of jjaints upon the large scale demanded by the extensive trade relations of the house, which embrace Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Wisconsin, and which is constantly being expanded under a strong and spirited demand. The buildings now occupied are a large five-story factory, 5.3x75 feet in dimensions, and an additional structiu-e of five stories, 78x1.38 feet in dimensions. Tlie offices and salesrooms are at tlie corner of Bates and Congress streets and the works are located at 39, 41 and 43 Fort street east. A force of thirty skilled hands is employed and the annual output of products aggre- gates in value a quarter of a million. The line of products embraces prepared jiaints, colored leads, zincs, brushes and painters' supplies generall}-. In the manufacture of paints Detroit is especially promi- nent and distinguished, and in this relation the house of Boydell Brothers is conceded to be one of the leading and most successful. .^o^^'Z^'S^-^ * V^'^""^**^.!! r. „it v'y 5 i^ Wy^^-^-^^^' WILLIAJI I5(.lYDEI.L. DETKOIT LINSEED OIL WORKS. The great fame which attaches to the Englisli family of Boydell and whicli was chiefly transmitted by John Boydell, who, in 1-785, estab- lished in London a gallery of paintings in illustration of the noted characters in Shakespearean drama, has been well and worthily sustained by his American descendants, of wliom John and William Boydell (Boydell Brotherf), of Detroit, have, by their enterprise, energy and undaunted i3ush in business, furnished the most credit- able emulations. Their illustrious ancestor, John Boydell, became Lord Mayor of London, but it has been quite as honorable and distinguished that Jolin and William Boydell, in the American Republic should hold as manufacturers the trade of their house has been pleased to accord, a position which distinguislies and naturally enobles them. DETROIT LINSEED OIL Yv^ORICS. Tiiis industry was established in ISS.) and is a branch of the National Lhiseed Oil Company, having steailily advanced its inter- ests to the occupanc3'of o:i3 of the leading manufacturing identities of the West. The products are Linseed Oil and Oil Meal, for which a large demand has been created east of Lake Micliigan. The facilities for manufacturing are of the best and most modern description. The mid building occupied, corner of Lieb and Wight streets, is 73x100 feet in dimensions, and the seed house, 50x50, which, with oil store sheds, afford ample accommodations for their extensive business. The annual output is large and the trade is of constant ex|)ansion under the influence of increasing demand. The Offices are at 23 East Congi-ess street, near Woodward avenue. PENINSULAR WHITE LEAD AND COLOR WORKS. Pi-esident, R. P. Williams ; Vioe-President and Manager, O. D. Goodell ; Treasurer, J. S. Farrand Jr. ; Secretary, A. S. Brooks ; Auditor, H. C. Clark. Manufacturers of Fine Color.;, dry and in oil, Mixed Paints and Painters' Goods generally. Factory and Officej, corner of Lieb and Wight streets. Auion,^ t'.ie most prom- inent and important manufacturing institutions of Detroit, and one which has, since its foundation, been invested with the highest claims to recognition and patronage by reason of the exceptionally salable character of its products, is the Peninsular Wliite Lead and Color Works, established 1)3' Fari-and, Williams & Compan\-, in 1880. It has since been conducted as a separate and distinct industry and has so advanced its trade relations as to embrace every section of the United States from JIainc to California. The factory buildings cover an area of 150x250 feet, with large area for increase, etc., and are substantially constructed of brick, tlio main building has three stories and the supiilemental structures, one 62 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. story in height, with underlying basements designed specifically to meet the fullest demands of the business in all of its varied details. Tlie factory is coni|ileti'l\- ecjuiinied with the most improved modern machiner}- and appliances, affording facilitii?s for manu- facturing unsurpassed in the country. The annual output of colors, paints, and jjainters supplies represents a value of $150,000, and the demand is so constantly increasing as soon to necessitate additional facilities to properly supply it. Tlie Company is com- posed of some of Detroit's most distinguished and intluential citi- zens whose ambitions are directed to the city's occupation and im- I>rovenient of general commercial resources. Tlie capital stock is |;10(1,000 and ^300,000 is under safe investment by the Company. A large force of skillccl bands are given constant employment and every department is under the ri>;i 1 direction and scrujiulous man- agement of capable and i)ractical superintendents. Detroit pos- essesses in this establishment a most valualile auxibary and one wliich through its enterprising direction commands for the city in its special products the most generally recognized distinction and trade sustenance. Olivek D. GooDlcrx General JIanager and Vice President of the Peninsular White Lead and Color Works, was born at Cambridge, Mass., January 20, is;i;!, and was sprung in the family line from which Oliver Cromwell the Protector of England under the Com- monwealth emanate. Tlie sturdy character of his illustrious ances- tors was committed to him ami the manner of its emulation is shown in the following sketcli. During his early years he re- memoved with his jiaients to Salem, Mass., where he attended the imblic schools, graduating from the noted Salem High School at the age of 15. During the six years succeeding, he was in his father's blacksmith shop, and subsequently accepted a position in the Globe Locomotive Works at Soutli Boston, where he continued until 18.>5, when he went to California, locating at San Francisco where he became engaged in the business of repairing steamship machinery. Returning to Boston in 18G0 by way of the Isthmus, he resumed his former connection with tlie Globe Locomotive Works in the relation of erecting naval engines. He erected en- gines in the Housatoiiic and other noted ships of the United States Navy. Inisr)4liewas appointed Assistant Superintendent of the St.Louis Lead and Oil Company of St.Louis. Mo., which position lie filled with signal ability and credit until 1808. He subsequently be- came interested in various enterprises at Elmira, N. Y. In 1871 he was recalled by the St.Louis Lead and Oil Company to act as PENINSULAR WHITE iAi.KD AND COLOR WORICS OUVEK D. OOODELL. Superintendent, continuing in that relation until 1875, after which he became again associated in the paint and oil business at the East. In 1881 lie accepted the position of Superintendent of the Als- ton Manufacturing Company, of Chicago, remaining until Septem- ber, 188!). Failing health at that time demanding absolute rest, he went East and sjient some time in revisiting old friends and the scenes of his boyhood. In October, 1889, he was induced to accept the management of the Peninsular White Lead and C'olor Works at Detroit, where he has since been instrumental in largely aug- menting the interests of the business through his jiractical knowledge of its varied details. Mr. Goodell possesses in a remarkable degree the qualities and characteristics which fit him for the position he occupie-s and which he has invested with the most eminent distinction. He had a son who inher- ited liis fatl>er's capabilities, who was tlie Superintendent of the manufac- ture of paints and varnishes far tlie John W. Masury and Sons Company, of Brooklyn, N. Y., a position which he filled with distinguished zeal and elliiiency. Mr. Goodell was murried at Salem, Mass., and lial,500 and they only employed eight hands. The sales of their products for the first year amounted to nearly $20,000. In 1883. Mr. Smith retired from the firm, and Messrs. F. C. Pingree and J. B. Howarth were ad- mitted to partnership. Tlie business has had a phenomenal growth 64 DKTROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. im ^ J. r.. IIOWAltTH. and tu-d;iy ranks witli the lar^.sl in tlio country. Steady cmploy- iiient is given to 1,000 hands and their products aggregate 3,000 pairs of shoes per day. Mr. Pingree liad always heeu averse to seeking ])olitieal lienors, and not until he was persistently urged to accept the nomination for Mayor in issi), beyond his continual pro- tests, would li(^ consent to make the run for lliat ollice to which he was elec-ted by a large majority. Tliis position he has ably and conscientiously lilled and largely to tlie benefit of the city in various ways. Mr. Pingree is a member of Detroit Post, No. 384, G. A. R., and of several social and athletic clubs. lie was married in 1872 to Miss Francis A. Gilbert, of Ml. Clemens, Michigan, and two daughters and a son have blessed their union. lie is a regular at- tendant of the Wootlward Avenue Baptist Church, and in all of his relations has ever maintained an incorruptible integrity and an umblemislied character. F. C. Pl.\(ilu;E, a brother of Ilazen S. Pingree. and a mem- ber of the firm of Pingree & Smith, was born at Denmark, Maine, in 1848, but removed with Ids parents to llopkinton, Mass., in his early youth. He came to Detioit in lb'68 and took cliarge of the manufacturing departments and designing of styles and patterns, a relation he has since ably and meritoriously sustained, lie be- came a member of the firm in 1883 and lias labored assiduously in the interest and advancement of its business. Mr. Pingree is a trustee in the First Congregational Clmrch and a Director of the City Savings Haidc, of Detroit. He is an exemplary citizen, a faith- ful factor in his business, anro(luets end)races men's custom boots and shoes in calf, kip and grain, lumbermen's and log drivers' boots, mocca.«in8 and hunting and si)orting goods, for which has been acquired an e.xteiisivc trade in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana, and other sections as far west as the Missouri river. The record of house has been one of continuous advances, and during 1887 it aug- mented its trade by fully thirty-three and one-third [ler cent., an accomplishment winch was surpassed in 1890 by an increase of one hundred per cent, over the i)reviou8 year. In ad name so spelli-d in liis ilay) came to America one year jirevious to the Revolutionary war in which he served with the colonial foi-ces. He married Klizabeth Strong and soon after moved to Salisbury, Vt., his wife coming from one of the most distinguished New England families. .Several of his descend- ants were noted in science and literature. He died January 1st l«l:!, leaving seven children, the" youngest being Claudius I.ycius Fyfe, who wasboi-n January lird, lTi)S. His early life was devoted to agricultural )Mirsiiils. later in the leather and tanning business. In ls:!T he eniisralcd to Jlicliigan, soon after he returned to New- York from wheiH(.' he eventually settled in Michigan : his last davs being spent in Hillsdale, at which i)lace he died in 1S81. His wife's death occurred in 184.S. Six children survived them, all being girls excepting the youngest, the subject of this sketch, who was born at Oak Orchard Creek, Orleans County, N. Y., Jannary 5th 1839, After his parents had returned to Michigan, Richard Henry Fyfe, was placed at School at Litchfield but at the earlj- age of eleven was obliged to begin the battle of life for himself, becoming a clerk in a drug store in Kalamazoo and subseijuently at HilUdale. Alwaj's studiously inclined, he rapidly arose and develniitd the sterling business cjualifications which have been the foundation of his success. In lS."iT he came to Detroit entering the employ of T. K. Adams, dealing in the shoe trade where he remained about six years; afterwanls serving with Rucker & Jlorgan in the same line. In 18C5 he purcha.sed the business of C. C. Tyler & Co. who had suc- ceeded T. K. Adams, their establishment being then located at their present place of business viz: Fyfe & Co's dov-n store 101 Woairs of boots, shoes and rubbers. The annual sale of these goods represent a value of about $1,000,000. The trade territory embraces the western and southwestern states, as far as Washington west and south as far as Kentucky. This house has had a career extending over half a century, marked by abundant success and conservatism and enterprise in the management of its affairs. The members of the firm are acknowledged as among Detroit's most influential citi- zens, ever ambitious to advance leading conimen-ial interests and general prosperity, in the achievement of which tliev liave proven earnest and iirogressive factors. K. r. I!ai,i>win 2nd & Company are extensive manufacturers of Boots and Sliues at 41 and 48 Woodward avenue REAL ESTATE. Shortly after the fire which destroyed the City of Detroit in 1805, Congress passed an act giving to the city all that tract of land known as the Governor Judges' Plan and ten thousand acres besides. The ten thousand acres constitute what is known as the Ten Thousand Acre Tract, and the land on either side of Woodward avenue generally called the Park Lots. The old residents of the city were permitted to select lots in the new plan in exchange for those owned or occupied by them prior to the fire. The remaining lots aiid the ten thousand acres were to be sold and the jjroceeds used to build a court house and jail. The in- habitants were quick enough to select their donation lots but when it came to the sales little progress was made. A great auction sale of real estate took place March 6, 1809 when the Park Lots were sold. All the land between Sproat and Henry streets. Woodward and Cass avenues, sold in one ])arcel to DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 67 Solomon Sibley for $123.52. On the same day John R. Williams purchased the entire tract of land lying north of Adams avenue and extending about one hundred feet nortli of Montcalm street and reaching easterly from Woodward avenue to the Brush farm line, for |188.75. In fact the entire tract of land reaching from Adams avenue to a short distance south of the railroad crossing, bounded on the westerly side by Cass avenue and on the easterly side by (he Brush farm including all of the Park Lots was tliat day sold for $1,882.09. Tlie war of 1812 came on; Detroit was surrendered to the British, and after its evacuation money was scarce; few new people were coming to the west; no produce was raised for exportation— indeed much was imported; furs were about the only exportation. Navigation was by sail boats; travel by horseback or on foot— no roads — no real estate could be sold because there were no buyers. The jail was not built until about 1818, and the Court House not until about 1823. A large portion of the lands in the Ten Tliousand Acre Tract were taken by Thomas Palmer and David C. McKinstry as pay- ment on the contract for erecting tlie Court House, but the final transfer of something over 5,500 acres was not made until 1829. C. M. BURTON. As early as 1817 an attempt was made to dispose of some of the government lands but the result was not satisfactory. The mone- tary depression of 1818 and subsequent years was followed by a gradual increase of business in all directions. The steamboat Walk-in-the- Water, was followed, after its disaster, by the Superior, and then shortly by other steamers until a daily line was estab- lished between Detroit and Buffalo. The Erie canal had been opened and railroads were being talked of, though few knew what a raih'oad was. It was seriously proposed to make a canal across Michigan, using the Rouge, Grand, Calamazoo (as it was then spelled) and St. Joseph Rivers for feeders. In 1835 and 1836 everybody seemed to have taken the "Western fever " and during the summer months of those years one thousand strangers landed each day in this city. The state was growing in population and decreasing in size. The settlement of the ''Toledo war " question had taken Toledo from the state and the entrance of Micliigan into the Union had deprived us of all territory west of Lake Michigan, except the upper peninsula, not tlien very populous. A constitutional convention had been held and a demand made of the general government to make Michigan a state, and thereafter she acted as a state — electing her own governor, senators and representatives. In our Legislature it had been proposed that the state should bear the name of Huron and that the present state of Wisconsin (or as it was sometime.:) spelled Ouisconsin) should bear the name of Michigan, bvit tiie proposition was defeated. In 1836 Chicago had 3,279 inhabitants and Detroit 6,937. Real estate dealers went wild — not only on city property but on farming lands. The Detroit Journal of June 10, 1835, says: " Buying and selling is the order of the day. Our city is filled with speculators who are all on tip toe. Several snug fortunes of from $10,000 to $20,000 have already been made. Gov. Cass has disposed of the front part of his farm, as far back as Lamed street for $100,000," and on the 17th it says: "real estate is advancing in this city beyond all precedent." The C'ass farm had belonged to the Macomb family and was purchased by Gov. Cass in 1816 for $13,000, but there were many outstanding titles in the various lieirs and it was not until about 1830 that he considered his title perfect and ready to be put on the market. In 1835 a syndicate, composed of DeGarmo Jones, Augustus S. Porter, Oliver Newberry, Eurotas P. Hastings, Henry Wliiting. Shubael Conant, Cltarles C. Trowbridge, Elon Farnswortli, Henry S. Cole and Edmund A. Brusli, purchased the whole Cass farm front, soutli of Earned street, for $100,000, giving Mr. Cass their mortgage and bond for the full amount. They at once platted the land and put it on the market. Gov. Cass also platted other portions of his farm and sold them at auction a few days later. On the 15th of July, 1835, the Journal says: "The Cass farm cost the present owner $12,000, nineteen years ago, and within five years the farm of nearly 500 acres lias been offered for $36,000. At the recent sales, less than twenty-four acres have been sold for $168,000. Another sale took place on Thursday last, consisting of seventy-five acres on tlie Gov. Porter farm, two miles below tlie city, which sold for $10,340. The whole farm contains 350 acres and was purchased witliin two years for less than $6,000." A vil- lage plat— called Belgrade — was laid out on the River Road ju.st east of the River Rouge Bridge and just west of Delray. This was owned by Henry M. Campbell (father of the late Judge James V. Campbell) and Levi Brown. This village 'has so completely dropped out of sight that it does not appear on any modern map, and few people know even of its existence. Another village called "Cass- andra" was platted by the late Judge B. F. H. Witherell. "Cass- andra" was eight miles north of the city and occupied land wliich has again been recently platted into village lots, but for years it has been cultivated as farm lands, deserted by those who purchased in the wild times of '36. As an inducement to purchasers, Mr. Wither- ell advertised that an abundance of iron ore had been discovered in the immediate neighborhood of Cassandra, and work could be given to all purchasers, as miners. Cities and villages sprung up all over. The city of Flat Rock, the city of Gibraltar, and many others, only to be found now in the recorded plats in the Registry office. Then came the first mutterings of the distant storm. One day the paper said: "The eastern money market is very tight, showing the results of the extravagant dealings in land." A few days later the result was shown in lesser sales here: then those holding encumbered lands sold for what they could get —then came the crash and the little real estate dealers were forced to dispose of what they had or the sheriff would sell them out. The syndicate that had purchased the Cass farm front, surrended up their rights to Gov. Cass, probably all of them poorer for the operation. Jlichi- gan was a state, but the times were dull — and business had to build itself up again as it had in the years succeeding 1818. Again one advance after another was made until 1856. There were nearl_v ten times as many subdivision plats filed in the Register's office from 1851 to 1856 as there were from 1857 to 1864. The city had greatly enlarged its area in 1857, but nothing could prevent the certain result of that over speculation that had preceded. There are many citizens in Detroit who remember the utter stagnation of business that followed 1857. But the real estate business, as well as trade in other departments, began to increase greatly after the war, and in 1872 and 1873 we went wild again on real estate speculation. Every 68 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. office obtainable on Griswold street was occupied by a real estate dealer. Everj-body, who could find nothing else to do, seemed to turn his attention to the purchase and sale of real estate. The pre- ceding eras of exaltation and depression seemed to hare left no impression on them. Land sold for more per acre in 1873 than can be obtaintd for it to-day. Then came the revolution and the disasters — the mortgage foreclosures — the evictn)n of those holding under contracts — the closing of the shops and factories — tlie long years of waiting for tlie tiIr. fharles B. Lothrop as administrator of the Theodore J. and Dennis J. Campau estates, in 1878, was tlie first indication of the upward change. The real estate he sold at auction went, as we deem it now, very low, but for the times, he got good prices and the tendency from that moment was uiiwards. Since 1883 1 have maile an annual statement of the amount of real estate sales as shown by the County records, and the amount is as follows: 188.3 $ !I.8S0..38:5 (I,:.'si).(r,>i; lii.:{st;.iii() ll,(i)!).','IIS U.liOt.lfll) UM),'T.li-.>o ir)..V)7,7iU 2n.7:!i).77;5 C. M. BCKTON Cl.\rence M. Burton was born November 18, lSo;j in the min- ing regions of California, where his parents had gone to get cured of the "gold fever."" His parents brought him with them to Hastings in this state in the year 18.w, where they still reside. After passing through the Hastings high school he entered tlie literary department of the Univei'sity of Michigan in 180!), but did not graduate in that department. He graduated from the law depart- ment in the spring of 1874 and immediately came to Detroit and entered the law office of Ward & Palmer, devoting his time almost exclusively to the examination of land titles. Tlie experience thus obtained and the researclies made by him in the abstract office (of wliich "Mr. AVard was part proprietor) qualified him for the active work of abstract making, and it was no new work to him when he obtained active, working interest in the "Wayne County Abstract office in the spring of 1883. A year later he took the exclusive con- 1884. 188.-). 188(>. 18S7 1888. 1S89. 1890. W. W. HANNAN. WILLIAM Y. HAMLIN. trol by buying out the interest of E. C. Skinner and has remainad at the head of the institution since. He has made liiniself familiar with the history of the city and is an ardent collector of all materi- als whicli the nature of liis business as an examiner of titles would interest him, books of travel and history relative t > t!ie city and state, documents and unpublished manuscripts of like historical character and inai>s and plans of the city and the river, some quite rare and of value in such connection. The abstract office of Mr. Burton is the largest in Micliigan and, outside of Chicago, is one of the largest in the West, and for completeness is probably not e.\;- eelled anywhere. W. A\'. HANNAN, Has had his hand on tlie lever labeled "push" about as often as any man in Detroit, and certainly no one has helped the city to "forge aliead" in the matter of building, and in the direction of general and decidedly apparent improvement, more than he. It is ((iiite likely tliat apart of h is u'liiuenchaljle activity is due to the fact that ho first gazed upon this land of the free on July 4, 18.")!, in Kochester, New York, a day cl dmed by the sniall boy as peculiarly his own, and one well calculated to give a youth appear- ing on that star-spangled day the liveliest kind of a reception. Everybody gets a lively reception who goes to see him at the Han- nan Real Estate E.xchange, 153 Uriswold street. As he talks to you, his superfluous energy flows out at his fingers' en Is, for he draws quite presentable pictures wliile his brain is workin.g, and his li|)S detailing some interesting transaction in his line. But his handi- work does not detach his attention or dissipate his forces, as is so often the case, and when througli talking, every sense of the man is alert and ready to be concentralc 1 on a "big deal."' Though born in New York, he is esentially a Michigan man by force of education and inclination. He came to Dowagiac with his parents when only two years old, and after graduating from the high school there took a preparatory course at Oberlin College. Entering the University of Michigan in 1870, he took his degree of B. A., then graduated from the de|)arti.ient of law in 1883. As can be imagined by those who kiiosv him, bo took his vacations working. Wlien quite young he gathered in the jiennies by selling pop corn and lemonade, and during his college vacations conducted with some other collegians, a series t.f railway excursions, which proved very popular and succes.s- ful. and where realy thorucleua for the extended system of summer DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 69 excursions for which the various points of Michigan are noted. He found time to gain considerable fame among athletes as a sprint runner, and was enrolling and engrossing clerk of the House of Representatives in the winter of 1881-83. In 1883 he started in professional life as a lawyer, but this was too slow for him, and he soon found his natural vocation in the real estate business, which has developed to an extent far beyond his most sanguine expectations. He was first connected with the firm of Hannan & Snow in the Buhl block. Snow doing the outside work. Then Hibbard Baker had a subdivision on Woodward avenue which he wanted worked up, and he gave Mr. Hannan permission to use an unlimited quantity of printers" ink. This was his oppor- tunity and he improved it. When Mr. Waterman died in 1885, his businef s naturally fell into Hannan's hands and this has more than doubled from year to year since. To enumerate all the great realty in which W. W. Hannan has been engaged would be tedious; but among the largest may be mentioned the Hammond building deal, representing nearly fl, 000,000. Another was the property of the Unitarian church and Mrs. Menzie's, costing |125,000, the $30,000 site purchased liy Mrs. Hammond for the University build- ing, and $123,000 for the new Hudson building. He has also closed a deal for 300 aci'es to a syndicate of city railway men; terms pri- vate. He induced E. W. Voigt to buy 116 acres on Woodward avenue, opposite the four mile house, for $42,500, on which he could clear $250,000 at any time if he would sell. The Hannan Real Estate Exchange has a commercial insurance department comprising several of the best companies in the world, which is rapidly growing under the management of E. W. Porter, and prom- ises to be one of the most useful factors in the real estate business of the city, the two seeming to be naturally connected in interests. It also controls the largest renting department in the business of the city, has from 500 to 1,000 acreage in subdivisions, and is con- nected with twenty or thirty syndicates. Mr. Hannan is a member of Chi Psi college fraternity, which numbers Senator Palmer, Eon M. Dickinson and other prominent Jlicliigan men among its mem- bers. , He is a member of the Michigan Bowling C^lub, Detroit Club, Rushmere Fishing and Shooting Club, is a stockholder in the City Savings Bank, Peninsular Savings Bank and American Savings and Loan Association. The Hannan Real Estate Exchange has recently enlarged its quarters so that with its present conveniencies it is the best fitted office of its kind in the city. This Exchange is consid- THOM.\S N. FORDYCE. HOMER WARREN. ered an authority on values in all portions of the city, as was well illustrated in the condemnation proceedings of the Union depot, in which the services of this agency were in constant demand. In- vestors desiring to place their moneys where they will surely be safe and at the same time yield them a large percentage, will find in this Exchange all they can desire. Home seekers who are de- sirous of placing their hard earned savings so that they may enjoy their old age in peace and happiness need have no fear of putting themselves into the hands of this Exchange where they will have the advantage of the many years' experience of its proprietors, with the benefit to result from their tact and extensive dealings. A de- partment of this firm to which we wish especially to draw the reader's attention is its renting department under the management of Mr. Thomas B. Goodwillie, who is also cashier of the Exchange. One needs only to meet this employe to learn with what kindness, courtesy and painstaking he meets every want of the applicant for information. Persons owning houses, stores or real estate of any kind will save many times the small fee asked by the real estate broker by leaving the same in his hands for general care and super- intendence. For the collection of rents, payment of taxes with prompt remittances of revenue etc. is a desi(feratum for which landlords long have sought. HAMLIN & FORDYCE. William Y. Hamlin, senior member of the firm of Hamlin & Fordyce, was born in Marshall County, Mississipiii, December 9, 1846 and \^as educated at Menqjhis,Tennesee and the St. Louis University. After leaving school, he entered the First National Bank of Memphis as discount clerk, becoming receiving teller, then paying teller. He remained here for eight years and became cashier of the Emmett Bank of Memphis. Subsequently he engaged for two years in the cotton trade at Memphis. In 1880 he came to Detroit as manager of the Godfrey estate in which his first wife held an interest. He has since made his home in Detroit and has devoted his attention to the Managemen'; of the Godfrey estate and extensive building and real estate operations. In 1886 he established the firm of Hamlin & Fordyce which has been very successful ; has made extensive pur- chases of property at Iron Mountain, Michigan, upon which in 1890 they had erected thirty houses. The firm also own large tracts of timbered lands in Eastern Kentucky. Mr Hamlin is active in busi- ness and is enterprising and progressive. He has accumulated con- ;o DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. siderable property in Detroit and makes investments with a sagacity derived from his long and intimate association with hirge financial institutions. He is a member of the various Detroit cluljs and retains his membership in tlie noted Tennessee Club of Memphis. He has been twice married, liis present wife being a Miss Ht-lm, of Newport, Kentucky, by whom he has one child. Mrs. Hamlin is a native of Havana, Cuba, at which point her father served as the special commissioner of the Con federate States during the four years of the civil war. Mr. Hamlin has been an extensive traveler, having visited nearly all of the most interesting countries in the world. His sketches of travel published a year or two ago in the Detroit Free Pres'i, covering as they did, a journey by dahabeah on the Nile, exi)eriences of tent life in the Hnly Land, archaeolngical researches in Greece and wandernigs through Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Russia attracted widespread notice anl most favorable criticism from sources that must have proved very gratifying to the writer. Thomas N. Fordyce, member of the real estate firm of Hamlin & Fordyce, was born in A'irginia in ISfll and came to Michigan in 1883. He followed the business of salesman until IHS.'i when he engaged with Mr. AVilliam Y. Ilamlin in the sale of real estate on a commission,, selling during the first j'car vacant lots to tlie value of .^180,000. In October, 18MG, he was admitted to partnersliip with Mr. Hamlin under the firm name of Hamlin & Fordyce. He has been especially active in the business and with Mr. Hamlin has acquired extensive real estate and other interests. The firm own a large subdivision at Iron Mountain, Michigan, upon which up to February, 1891, tliey had erected over forty houses. They are also heavy stockholders in the Bessemer Spike Nail and Staple Company, of Chicago , of which Mr. Hamlin is vice-president and both he and Mr. Fordyce members of its lioard of directors ; of \V. N. Carlisle & Company harness manufacturers, of which Jlr. Hamlin is ])resident and Mr. Fordyce secretary and Treasurer, and of tlie Michigan Brewing Comi)any. capitalized at .*T5,0(I0, of which Mr. Fordyce is president and of the stock of which he and Mr. Ilamlin are tlie largest holders. Mr. Fordyce has demonstrated in the real estate and other interests with which he is associated conspicious abilities, and for so young a man a ripe judgment and an enterprising and conservative direction, HOMER WARREN, Who has handsome real estate oltices in the Buhl Block, was boru near Romeo, Michigan, December 1st, 180.5. As his father C. W. HARR.\n. E. C. VAN HUSAN. was a Methodist minister, he traveled over a good portion v( the state in his youth, and obtained a good English education, coming to Detroit at the age of seventeen. He first entered the bookstore of J. M. Arnold & Company, where he remained for six years, and there became cashier in the Custom House, which he retained for nine years. For the past three years he has been engaged in the real estate business, being formerly located in the Moffat Block. His first year's transactions were largely in Woodward avenue acreage property, selling .i;8i:5,Onn worth the first year. His present subdivisions are Euclid and Belmont avenues, both Woodward avenue subdivisions, Osborii & McCallum's Fourteenth avenue sub- division, north of the Boulevard, the Waltz subdivision, and a tract on Ferry avenue, near the Peninsular Car Works. Mr. Warren does a general business in subdivisions, building lots, residences, business property etc., both on commission and speculation. Associated with him are Frank C. Andrews, CuIIen Brown and George C. Morse, all young men full of energy and ambition. Jlr. Warren is not only a first-class business man, but one of the most popular society men in Detroit. He is a memlter of the Detroit Club, Micliigan C'lul;. Lako SuClair Shooting and Fishiiij; Club, and tlu' Detroit Athletic Club. He is widely and favorably known as a vocalist of a rare order. He has been a member of the Fort Street Presbyterian church choir for ten years, and has probably sung for "sweet charity's sake" more times than any other man in Detroit. C. W. HARRAH, Is one of Detroit's youngest real estate men, having been born at Davenport, Iowa, February 23nd, 1863. He came to this city at the age of fourteen and after graduating from the high school and business college, went to work for J. K. Burnham & Company, and was with H. P. Baldwin 2nd & Comi)any, for six years. In March 1880, after six month's investigation he started in the real estate business bj' buying a tract of land in the northeastern jiart of the city, and subdividing it at a time wlien there was much less compe- tition in tliis line than thei<> is now. He was married in December ISiMJ to Miss Lela Kussell, daughter of Francis U. Russell. After a trip through the iiuuh boomed cities and districts of the West, he returned, feeling that while these places may do to live in, Detroit is the best ])lace for the real estate business, because the rise in values in this city is steady and legitimate, without booms and consequent depressions. Mr. Harrah's business has increased most DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. satisfactorily and he now employs four clerks and six agents in place of no clerk and two agents as at first. His specialty is selling suburlian lots, and in 1890 lie disposed of about 2,000 in various sections of the city largely around Milwaukee Junction and the River Rouge districts. He has had reiiiarkalile success with his sub- divisions of Urbanrest, and Glenurban at Toledo. He is a heavy advertiser and his lists include property of all sorts. He has an especially large German clientage and his German agents are the best in the city. E. C. Van HUSAN, Real estate broker and dealer, is descended from a Dutcli family originally settling at Palmyra, New York. His father the late Caleb Van Husan, was one of Detroit's prominent citizens and at one time a member of the Michigan Legislature. E. C. Van Husan was born at Detroit, May 13, 1801, and received his education in the citj' public schools and in the east. In 1S78 he became associated witli the Detroit hardware house of Standart Brothers as clerk, retain- ing that position until 1881, wlien lie entered the service of the Detroit Fire and Marine Insurance Company, of wliicli his father was president, remaining witli that institution until 1886. He next embarked in the real estate business in which he has since been con- tinuously engaged conducting a brokerage business and handling his own property in Detroit, of which he has acquired extensive tracts. He owns and controls several subdivision, among them being "Van Hasan's East End," one of the largest in the city, containing over sixty acres platted, in 1889. Mr. Van Husan has been notably suc- cessful in his real estate ventures, and conducts his transactions ui:on a very large scale. His sales witliin the past few years have aggre- gated several hundred thousands of dollars and naturally place him in tlie front rank of prominent real estate brokers and dealers. He occupies a fine suite of offices in the Hammond building. SANDERSON & KIRTLAND. Philip G. Sanderson, senior member of tlie firm of Sanderson & Kirtland dealers in real estate and operators on the Board of Trade as commission dealei's, was born at Detroit, August 19, 1866 and was educated in the public schools, graduating from the high school in 1883. His first venture in business was with the Black Hardware Company, subsequently becoming freight cashier for the Detroit and Cleveland Steam Navigation Company and for three years afterward served as secretary and treasurer of PHILIP Q. SANDERSON. WILLIAM U. KIRTLAND. the Belle Isle Ice Company. He embarked in the real estate busi- ness, making a purchase of twenty acres on Chene street, which he subdivided into 197 lots all of which he disposed of in a few montlis. He next created a subdivision of fifteen acres on Caniff road, forty- eight acres on Woodward avenue, ninty-five acres on Grosse Isle and five acres on Vandyke avenue, nearly all of these lots have been sold clearly indicating Mr. Sanderson's ability to secure desirable prop- erty. The firm of Sanderson & Kirtland was established in Decem- ber 1890, by which a combination of talent directed to the achieve- ment of the highest success was instituted. As extensive grain dealers on the Board of Trade they have acquired large patronage from south- ern and southwestern grain producing districts as well as tlirough- out the state of Michigan. They have acquired the business formerly operated by the Wendell Grain Company and have already advanced themselves to a prominent position which being young men reflects signal honor and credit upon them. William B. Kirtland, member of the firm of Sanderson & Kirtland, was born at Vernon, New York, September 3, 1866 and removed with his parents to Detroit, when a mere bo}-. He was educated in the public scliools and at the age of thirteen became messenger on the Board of Trade; afterward acting as a commercial reporter, and as assistant grain accountant at the Michigan Central elevators. After being for several years connected witlr various firms operating on tlie Board of Trade, he opened an office for the conduct of the grain and seed business, becom.ing an active member of the Board of Trade and continuing in that relation until April 1, 1891, when he became associated with Mr. Sanderson in tlie real estate and grain commission business. Mr. Kirtland, among Detroit's younger business men, takes a consijicuous position for business sagacity and enterprise evinced throughout his successful career. SAMUEL A. PLUMER, Real estate dealer was born at Sleredith, New Hampshire, May 30, 1831 and there received liis education. He was engaged in the wholesale beef business in Boston for eight years. For tlie past twenty years he has industriously prosecuted the real estate business in Detroit, also supporting his interests in stock raising in Colorado and New Slexico and manufacturing interests in Detroit. In liis real estate operations in Detroit he has been very successful and has established various subdivisions which Iiave largely contributed to 72 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. the city's extensions particularly in the western ilistrict=>. Mr. Plumer with the co-operation of liis son, John H. Plumer, negotiates loans for eastern capital and huys and sells real estate direct or upon a commission hasis. The annual volume of business of this establishment is very large and gives it a higli rank in real estate circles. Mclaughlin brothers. Robert J. Mc'LAl, which they sold during the year. In January, ]s!)0, he and his l)rotlur joined forces for good. Among tlieir deals have been the punliase of four acres on Milwaukee avenue, Avliich was platted into tliirty lots and sob! in two months; twenty-nine acres on Woodward avenue north of the toll gate, running through to Craw- ford street and subdivided into 1.j3 lots; 120 acres on the River Rouge afterward sold for .«;:iO,000. The last Woodward avenue sub- division has been about half sold, and the remainder is beino- handled by the McLaughin Brothers to the best possible advantage. This firm's dealings in real estate have all been conducted on the sound basis of practical knowledge. Knergctic, upright and pro- gressive, they have done much to lielp build up the city's best interests. IIOBEIM- .J. .Mi^' LAUtiULlN". Joseph R. JIcLauuhlin was born in Detroit, June 5th, 1851. His father ami mother were Oakland County people. His parents moved from Detroit when he was about two years okl, returning to Oakland t'oimty; thence they went to Brighton, Livingston County, where his father was engaged in farming. In 18(13 t\ie family moved to Birmingham, where they resided for four years, going then to the oil region in Pennsylvania, where his father was engaged in the grocery and provision business. His mother died in Pitthold City, Pennsylvania, in 1866; shortly after this the family JOSEPH R. MCLAUGULI.N. DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. I'o returned to Birmingham, where Mr. McLaughlin's fatlier suon after (lied. At the age of eighteen years, Mr. McLaughlin entered the high scliool in Birmingham, and continued his endeavors for an education for ten consecutive years, graduating at the University of Michigan in the literary and law departments. He was a member of the class of 1877 in the literai-y department, and of 1879 in the law department. During this period, Mr. McLaughlin paid the entire expenses of his education, earning the money as he pro- ceeded. In 1S76, Mr. McLaughlin was in the junior class at the University. Desiring to go to the Centennial Exposition, and the expense being great, he arranged an excursion fr(_)m Detroit to Philadelphia, whicli was one of the largest and most conspicuous excursions that left the state during that year and was named " The University of Michigan Excursion." This enterprise gave him an insight into railway busiaess, and an acquaintance with raih-oad men which he afterwards utilized. He was the first man in Michi- gan to make local excursions from the interior of the state to the city a business, and engaged in this in company with his brother, Robert, with considerable profit for several seasons after- wards. In 1879 he entered into the practice of law with William L. Carpenter, and retained this rclati(inshi|) for three years. In 1883 Mr. McLaughlin organized the Micliigan Lumber Company for the purpose of manufacturing hard-wood bill stuff. This comi)any furnished all the oak used by the Union Depot C'ompany in the con- struction of their docks and elevators. Early in 1886 Mr. McLaughlin thought he could see a future for electrical enterprises and undertook the organization of the Edison Company in Detroit. This company was organized in just six weeks from the time he undertook it, although at the time it was the lai-gest Edison illumi- nating company in the United States except one — the Pearl Street Station, New York City — and had a capital of .^250,000. Besides organizing this company, Sir. McLaughlin was its Secretary and Manager during the constiuction of the plant and tlie first two years of its operation, placing it upon a good paying basis. The Edison General Company, however, recognized his ability as an organizer, and made him their general agent for Ohio, where lie organized several companies, among which is the Columbus Edison Electric Company. He was appointed during this same period the agent of the Sprague Electric Railway Motor Company, and sold several large railway equipments in Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, Piqua and other Ohio towns. Mr. McLaughlin w. T. MCGRAW. FRANK J. WILLETTE. has been directly and indirectly engaged in real estate business in this city for tlie past eight years, and is now giving his entire time to that business. Besides the real estate transactions of the firm of McLaughlin Brothers, Mr. J. R. McLaughlin is interested in the following on his own account; he has a subdivision on Woodward avenue, known as the Josephine Avenue Subdivision, also an interest in thirty acres on the corner of Woodward avenue and the CaniflE road, which will be subdivided and put into the market in the spring of 1893. WILLIAJl T. JIcGRAW, Proprietor of tlie Detroit Tobacco Company and jjart owner of McGraw's subdivisions, was born at Livonia, Michigan, and edu- cated in the public schools at Plymouth, Michigan, and Goldsmith's Business University at Detroit. After leaving school he entered the First National Bank of Plymouth, Michigan, where he continued for two years, subsequent!}' engaging in the fire insuiance business for one year. His next employment was with the Globe Tobacco Works. Detroit. _ He next engaged in the real estate business, open- ing up McGraw's subdivision of fifty-three acres on Grand River avenue in 1883, an enterprise in which he was eminently successful. In 1884 he, together with his brother, 11. McGraw, established the Detroit Tobacco Comijany, as a general jobbing business and has acquired a trade which extends throughout the United States. In 1890 he opened up with Mr. Philip G. Sanderson, tiie Grosse Isle subdivision of 100 acres, known as Edgewater, and one of the most eligibly located and handsomest of the Detroit suburlian districts. Mr. McGraw is veritalily a man of success who has steadily won his way to a notably high position as a manager and owner of valuable real estate interests. He was married to Miss llarret L. Fuller, of Plymouth, Jlichigan, in 1887. He is a member of the Michigan club. He is having built at Edgewater, on Grosse Isle, a handsome residence, which will be ready for occupancy this summer. FRANK J WILLETTE, Real estate dealer was born at Detroit, August 2, 1864 and after a preliminary education in the public schools, entered the Detroit College. His first experience in business was with C. C. Randall, photographer, in which he was engaged for seven years. He subse- quently became associated in the real estate business with Hamlin & Fordyce, and one year afterward established himself in the same business on his own account. His first purchase of real estate was 74 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, ORRIN W^UJDELL. eighteen acres on Livernois avenue, from which he created a sub- division of ir)3 lots characterized as the Barium & Willette subdivi- sion. Witliin the space of five months lie lias disposed of two thirds of these lots at remunerative prices. IIu subseipiently bought Mr. Bariums interest in the business and formed a co-partnership with Mr. Charles T. ^Vilkins, with whom he purchased twenty acres with a frontage on Woodward avenue paying therefor ^;i(),0()0. They have since subdivided this property into 100 fifty-feet lots which they are improving with sidewalks six feet wide, shade trees, and with buildings restricted to a cost of ^2,000. This property is exceptionally desirable by reason of its location on the principal thoroughfare within the city limits and within four miles of its trade centre. Mr. Willette is a member of tlio Catholic club and a zealous democrat in jiolitics. He is the secretary of the Detroit Electric Soap Company which was organized January 10, 1801, with a capital stock of ijs.jO.OOO. Among the younger notable business men of Detroit, Jlr. Willette may justly claim the merit wliich attaches to his successful business career. ORRIN WARDELL. AVas born at Rainham, Ontario, April 1, 1836. He continued to reside with his parents upon a farm on the shore of Lake Erie until his thirteenth year. He earned his first money by chop])ing wood at sixty cents per cord. In 18,50 ho was apprenticed to the harness business at Gowanda, New York, where he continued for about one year and a half. Returning to Canada, he worked at his trade for about two years. He subsequently engaged in the trucking business in Hamilton for about a year, after which he con- ducted a butclier shop in Selkirk for about the same period, and then resumed the harness business in Wellington Square. He was married about this Ihiie to Miss Mary Tenock. Removing to Grimsby, he again made a venture in the harness business, but soon disposed of it in a trade for a patent churn which proved a failure. He next started an eating house at St. Catherines, and at the lapse of six months he began his duties as overseer of construction of the Great Western Railroad. The panic of 1867 deprived Mr. Wardell of every dollar he possessed. He walked from Hamilton to Toronto, a dis- tance of forty miles, with only six cents in his pocket. Arriving at Toronto, he procured work at house-moving, an occupation he after- ward followed, combining it with wrecking, for several years, doing a very profitable business. Raising a sunken vessel loaded with crockery and other kinds of merchandise, which fell to him, he dis- posed of it at auction realizing a large amount of cash. From this time forward he was engaged in the auction business. Coming to Detroit in 1872 he opened large auction rooms and subsequently merged the business into a wholesale relation. In 1883 he began to invest in real estate and to give his attention to extensive operations in that line, ac(}uiring a merited i>roniinence and distinction. The present firm of O. Wardell & Son make a specialti' of selling real estate at auction. During Ix'JO tliey .sold 743 vacant lots and sixty- nine houses and lots. Mr. Wardell has essentially contributed to the improvement of Lincoln avenue upon which he resides. He is a genial, sociable and hospitable gentleman, fond of fine horses and the g(K)d things of life. His son Charles R. is actively engaged in the business. Mr. Wardell owns an elegant cottage at Maceday Lake where his summers are spent aniiul:u ity. Charles V. Rich, member of the firm of Macdonald, Rich & Company, was born at Richville in the State of Xew York,a village nameil in honor of his paternal ancestors, June 11, 1862. His edu- cation was received in the High School ;it Ogdenshurgh, Now York, B. WEST. DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 79 after which he entered the employment of the dry goods house of Norris Winslow & Company, at Watertown, New York, as cashier, filling that position for one year. He subsequently accepted a clerical situation with the Ulutual Benefit Life Insurance Company, at Newark, New Jersey, in which he continued for nine years. Coming to Detroit in 1888 he became associated with the firm of Macdonalil Brothers & Company, as a partner and bears that rela- tion to the newly constituted firm of Macdonald, Rich & Company, in which his name ajipears. Mr. Rich is enterprising, conservative and practical, and is an important factor in the extensive business of Jiis house which he has assiduously labored to secure. While yet a young man he has evinced business qualities and capabilities of a high order and which must rapidly advance him to great and per- manent honors. L. Burton West, member of the firm of Macdonald, Rich & Company, was born at Mendon, New York, September 4, 1849, and removed with his parents to Mt. Clemens, Michigan, when but four years old. He received his education in the schools of that village, afterward taking a business course at Sprague & Kleiner's Business College at Detroit. His first employment was as a drug clerk for J. S. Farrar, of Mt. Clemens serving in that capacity for three and a half years. His parents removed to Detroit in 1871, and in 1874 Mr. West became connected with the old and well known furniture house of Marcus Stevens & Company as salesman and shipping clerk. Tliis business was subsequently purcliased by Mabley & Company and became a part of their establishment, Mr. West con- tinuing in their employ in the same relations, his wiiole period of service in the two houses being nine years. In 1883 lie entered the celebrated house of John Wanamaker, Philadelphia, taking charge of the parlor furniture and wood mantel departments. Returning to Detroit in 1883 he took charge of a set of books for Macdonald & Beck, plumbers, and steam fitters, and ujion the organization of the firm of Macdonald Brothers & Company, became superintendent and buyer, and upon the change of the firm to Macdonald, Rich & Company in August, 1890, was admitted to partnership. Mr. West's practical experience and sujierior knowledge of detail emi- nently fit him for the business in which he is engaged and in which he has proven a most valued acquisition. BUICK & SHERWOOD. Manufacturers of plumbers' woodwork and manufactm'- ers of and dealers in sanitary specialties, corner of Cham- D. D. BinCK. WILLIAM SHERWOOD. plain street and Jleldruni avenue, established their business in this relation in July 1884. The building occupied has a frontage of 162 feet on Meldrum avenue and 153 on Champlain street, with an additional structure of 80 feet in the rear. They employ 133 hands and the annual product aggregates $260,000. The trade territory embraces the whole United States and a considerable export trade with Canada and South America, has been established. The firm have a branch office at 44 Cliff street. N. Y. which is under the management of Mr. B. F. Freeman. D. D. BuiCK, senior member of the firm of Buick & Sherwood was born in Scotland, September 17, 1854, and came with his parents to the the United States in 1856, locating at Detroit. His early education was received in the city public schools and his first venture in the actual business of life was as a carrier for the Free Prcas in the mornings and the Daily Union in the afternoon. After this he worked for some time on a farm, and returning to Detroit, became associated witb Flower Bro's. as an apprentice to the brass finisliing trade in which occupation he continued for twelve years. In 1879 he became foreman of the factory performing efficient service in that direction until 1881 when he commenced business for himself. In 1884 lie formed a co-partnersliip with his present partner, Mr. Wm. Slierwood, the firm name being Buick & Sherwood, and under which the business has since been conducted. William Sherwood, the junior member of the firm of Buick & Sherwood was born in Lincolnshire, England, October 20, 1851, and was educated at London. He landed at New York city in 1873 and found a home at Toronto for a sliort time, coming to Detroit in 1873 and engaging witli Flower Brothers as a brass moulder subsequently becoming superintendent of tlieir brass foundry in wliich relation he served until 1884, when he became a member of the firm of Buick & Sherwood. R. S. BAKER. Manufacturer of parquetry floors, wood carpets and ornamental borders, and dealer in building materials, was born at Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, August 3, 1835. His ineliniinary education was received in his native town and resumed and completed at Flint, Micliigan, to which place his grandparents removed about 1848. In 1853 he entered into the lumber business at Port Huron, Michigan, which he conducted up to 1863, when he enlisted in the military 8o DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. R. S. BAKKR. service as Captain of Company F., 37th A[ichigan Volunteer Infantry, serving to 1864. After retiring from the army he engaged in the speculation of oil. After two years he went to Chicago where he instituted the manufacture of parquetry flooring, but had the misfortune to be burnt out in the great lire of 1871. lie. however, despite this serious loss, re-engaged in business, at the same time dealing In real estate, and continuing therein up to 1888, wlien he established a branch at Detroit, removing to that city, where he has since successfully / 0r^ -I "S resent location of the business is Room 11 Walker block. Among the most notable buildings constructed by this firm are the Harper Hospital, Detroit, First Presbyterian church on Woodward avenue. Church of Our Father, Park, Davis & Company's works, Municipal Court building. Fire Department headquarters, and numerous fine residences in Detroit. The facilities are of the most modern descrii)tion and include every requisite of the extensive I)usiness. Employment is given to 100 hands and the character of their workmanship is the eipial of any in the country. The most vigilant superintendence and dliecton are exercised and every detail is made to conform to tlie best models as recognized by leading architects. GicoRCE AV. Fisher, of Toi)ping & Fisher, was born at Jit Ver- non, Ohio, in 1S44, and removed wlien quite young to Monroe, Michigan, coming later to Detroit where he completed his educa- tion in the city public schools. He began business on his own account in 1874 as contractor and builder, and in 1880 formed a DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. partnership with Sir. Topping. During tlie late civil war Mr. Fisher served as a member of the First Michigan Horse Artillery and participated in numerous heavy engagements, notably Gettys- burg and in Sherman's western campaign. Topping & Fisher have recently completed the construction of the grand and impos- ing building of J. L. Hudson, the clothier, at the corner of Farmer and Gratiot streets. Mr. Fisher is a member of the masonic frater- nity; a member of the board of trustees of the Michigan Sovereign Consistory, and a trustee of the Third avenue Presbyterian church. He married the daughter of Mr. Robert Stead, a noted pioneer settler at Detroit, and has one child — a bright little girl. THOMAS HYLAND. Builder and real estate broker, 97 Shelby street, was born at Kingston, Ont., July 11, 1861, removing with his parents to Toronto in 1863. He was graduated from the Lasalle Institute at Toronto, in 18T7, and took a business course in the British-American Business College, Toronto, afterward entering the office of O'Keefe and Com- pany where he remained six years. In 1885 he came to Detroit and engaged in the real estate business. Two years ago he associated building with the real estate business and within the past two years has contructed eighty-five houses, one church, one club house, and four stores. He employs the best architectural talent to design plans for the numerous buildings he has in process of erection and contemplation. Mr. Hyland conducts his business upon the most approved system and is jireijared to furnish specifications for build- ings ranging in price from 1800 to $10,000, of modern design, fixtures and sanitary appliances. He has desirable building lots in various localities and will build houses for purchasers for a small advance and monthly installments. Mr. Hyland deserves the suc- cess in business which has been achieved through its upright and consistant conduct. W. J. BURTON & COMPANY. The house of W. J. Burton and Company was founded March 1, 1886, with W. J. Burton as sole proprietor. In April, 1890, Mr. John JI. Anderson jiurchased an interest, the firm name becoming \V. J. Burton and Company. As manufacturers of the "Eastluke" metallic shingles, galvanized iron cornices, sheet metal work and roofing materials this firm has won a distinguished reputation and identity commensurate with the generally acknowledged merit and salable character of the i>roducts. The facilities for manufacturing W. J. BURTON. J. M. ANDERSON. [6] THOMAS HYLAND. are ample azid include si)ecially devised machinery and all requisite appliances. Skilled hands to the number of twenty-five are given steady employment, and the the annual output aggregates in value over $40,000. The trade territory embraces the entire United States. The manufacture of the "B" ventilator is an important feature and one which, though but recently introduced, has been received with great favor. Slessrs. W. J. Burton and Company have in this as in their other products distanced competition and acquired an extensive patronage, the best evidence of their ability to acceptably supply the demand for their products. William J. Burton, the senior member of the firm of W. J. Burton and Company was born July 9, 1863 in Lambton county, Ontario, and was educated in the public schools at Petrolia. At tlie age of 19 he was apprenticed to the tinning trade with Hopkins Brothers at St Clair, Michigan, remaining with them for three years. He then engaged with H. E. Hatch of Lapeer, Michigan, from whence he came to Detroit and engaged with Coulson & Morehouse as clerk, but soon decided to return to his former trade and engaged with Leadley & Hutton in the galvanized iron cor- nice trade, remaining with them six months, when Messrs. Mears and Rusch startei in the same line at 74 State street, April 1, 1884, and pursuaded him to take an interest in the business with them. That firm dissolved by mutual consent December 81, 1885. He then commenced his present business which has become a leading and successful manufacturing establishment in the line of galvan- ized iron cornices, window caps, sky-lights and other architectural metal work. John M. Anderson, of the firm of W. J. Burton & Company, was born at Oakland, Michigan, in 1864, and continued to reside there until his seventeenth year. His early education was received in the schools of his native town and was finished iu Mahew's Busi- ness College in Detroit in 1883. In 1886 he was engaged in busi- ness as a traveling representative of the Capewell Horse Nail Com- pany in Iowa and Neliraska, in which position he continued for two yeai's, subsequently filling the position of traveling salesman for Limbach & Webber, hardware dealers, for one ^'ear. In 1888 he formed a cojiartnership with Henry H. Holland in the sale of carriage hardware in the state of Michigan, with offices at room 1 Whitney Opera House block. In April, 1890, he bought an interest in the business of AV. J. Burton & Company, in which he has since proven an active and invaluable factor. DETROIT LEAD PIPE AND SHEET LEAD WORKS. This business was originally established in 1870 by the firm of J. N. Raymond & Company, Mr. Samuel Ferguson being the Com- 82 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. pany. Mr. Ferguson purchased Jlr. Raymond's interest in 1S79 and continued the business unchT liis own name until 1883 when the present company was formed, which was incorporated and capaitalized at $50,000. The line of goods manufactured includes lead pipe and other lead products, such as bar lead, lead sash weights, lead wedge for monumental and stained glass work. A large stock of plumbing, steum and gas fitters su])plies and tools is also carried. The Ijuildings occupied at 57, 59 and 01 Second, and 180 and 183 Larncd street west, are three stories in height, the Second street biiihling being 63 x 100 feet, and tlie Larned street building SO x 03 feet in dimensions, and suitably ei|uii>ped with facilities and appliances for t!ie the conduct of the extensive business in its varied details. The trade territory embraces the states of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana and is of constant exi)ansion. The officers of the company are: Saniuel Ferguson, president; John W. Wilson, vice-president; E. A. Jlorris, secretary and treasurer; C. D. Jlontrose, assistant secretary. Mr. E. A. Morris has been Black walnut has nearly vanished from the forests, oak is very scarce, while close cuttings are made from cottonv-ood, basswood, beech, maple, ash, sycamore, birch, cherry, whitewood and elm, and new mills are going up j'early in order to utilize these woods. These facts have resulted in the extensive purchase of pine lands in other states by Michigan lumbermen, especially in Winsconsin, Minnesota and the southern states. Methods have improved in the lumbering industry as in every other, logging railroads having been carried into the very heart of vast forests, which wero before con- sidered totally unavailable on account of their distance from streams large enough for log floating. Those who long ago proi)hesied the death of the Michigan lumbering industry have thus seen it extended years beyond what would have been its natural life. Not longer ago than 1856, a log must have at least a fifteen inch diameter at the top to be considered manufacturable, and logs could not find a ready market on the Saginaw river that measured less than sixteen inches at the top, such logs bringing $3.50 per DETROIT LEAD I'IPE AND SHEET l.KAD WORKS, identified with this business since its establishment and is (hi active administrator and director of tlie affairs of the company. LUMBER. Nature has been prodigal cif in-r favcjrs in making Michigan one of the best timbered regions of the globe, and by thus instituting a principle and direction of labor, has paved the way for the founda- tion of some of the most profitable enterprises in her metropolis. The lumber district of Michigan has been stcadilj- receding north- ward for many years, and the character of the lumber product is vastly different from what it was even ten years ago, owing to the demolition of acre upon acre of certain woods, in demand for com- merce. The Huron Peninsula, once covered witli jiine, has been denuded ; in the Saginaw Valley the year 1883 marked its highest product of pine ; Montcalm, Gratiot and Kent counties are no longer logging centres. Where i)ine was formerly used, hemlock is substituted, and cedar shingles are taking the place of pine ones. thousand. Where many saw mills formerly buzzed ujion the banks of the Detroit river, onlj- one is now heard cutting the jiine lumber direct from the log, that of Mcffat, Eatherley & Com- pany, on Chene street. But though little sawing of this kind is done here, the trade in hard wood and the consumption of the same here is very great and constantly on the increase. The ship yards use between 4,000,000 and 5,000,000 feet of oak timber. It is difficult for them to find a suffi- cient quantity of the best white oak, as they obtain the greater part of what they need from Ohio, Indiana and Canada. Wayne county can no longer boast of its dense oak forests, as in former years, but considerable red oak in scattered trees is cut and brought into the city by teams, for spile driving and for building purposes. The car companies here are large consumers of both oak and pine, and these make heavy drafts upon the forests of the state, besides .shipping considerable lumber, especially oak, from other states. The manufacturers of wooden ware ai-o large consumers of timber, much of the sycamore and other wood required by them being DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 83 RUSSELL A. ALGEE. brought from Canada in bolts. Much of the lumber used by the large establishments manufacturing staves and heading comes to Detroit from the Canadian forests. This city being a center for the manufacture of furniture, the factories engaged in this worii use immense quantities of tlie lighter Michigan woods, besides scour- ing otiier states and even foreign countries for the best quality of oak which they require. The picture frames and backing, cigar boxes and other finished wood products requiring their hmiber, wliich are manufactured here, find tlie state supply usually adequate to their needs. The building interests here use a largely in- creasing supply of lumber each year — so, tliough Detroit can scarcely be called a lumber center in a shipping sense, it is a great centre in the lumber trade from a financial point of view, on account of tlie millions which are invested in the lumbering districts by the moneyed men of Detroit, and in the amount of the forest product that is yearly consumed by the manufacturers of the city. The total lumber movements for 1890 were as fol- lows: Received by rail, 184,.538.000 ; by lake, 78,085,000 ; manu- factured, 9,000,000 ; sliipments, 34,203,000. ALGER, SMITH & COMPANY. Among the great lumber dealers of Michigan who, through the exercise of enterprising and progressive methods, liave advanced the business to its present magnitude and distinctive importance, Messrs. Alger, Smith & Company, especially deserve the liigli repu- tation resulting from the sagacious and conservative conduct of the vast interests under their control, which have culminated in such extensive holdings, and in so satisfactory a manner. Messrs. Alger, Smith & Company, succeeded to the business originally establislied by General R. A. Alger in 1874, afterward Moore, Alger & Com- pany, and wliicli was incorporated under the j^resent name of Alger Siuitli & Company in 1SS2, with a capital stock of .f 1,500,000, and under auspices wliicli Iiave continued to secure the most gratifying successes. The company gives employment to 1,000 hands and the annual output of timber, logs and lumber aggregates 90,000,000 feet. Tliese products are shipped to Buffalo and Tonawanda, New York, Toledo and Cleveland, Ohio, and Port Huron and Detroit, Michigan. They own 75,000 acres of timber land at Black River, Michigan, the products from which are transported by the company's large propellors, the Volunteer and the Gettysburg in connection with their steam tugs, Torrent and Westoott. The officers of the com- pany are enterprising and progressive business men, and are prom- inently associated with various leading industries, among which are the Detroit, Bay City & Alpena Railway, of which they are the chief owners. General Alger being its president, M. S. Smith its vice-president and treasurer, and T. H. Newberry its secretary. They also possess a controlling interest in tlie Manistique Lumber Company, of which General Alger is president, Abijah Weston, of Painted Post, New York, vice-president, M. S. Smitli, treasurer, and J. C. McCaul, secretary. They own the controlling stock of the Manistique Railroad Company of which M. S. Smith is president, L. A. Hall, vice-president, and J. C. McCaul, secretary and treas- urer. Russell A. Alger is not only the self made man and success- ful business man, but a gallant soldier, a broad minded philanthro- pist, and a devoted husband and father. He was born in tlie town- ship of Lafayette, Medina county • Ohio, Eebruary 37th, 1836. His parents, Russell and Caroline Moulton Alger, were both of English and Scotcli descent, their ancestors having emigrated to America dur- ing the early history of tlie colonies. Young Russell, like many others of America's patriots, served his time living in a logliouseand work- ing for the neiglibors around the little clearing in tlie woods, "at times," he says, " for three or four teacupfuLs of flour per day," and at another time he worked for a bag of corn, carried it on his back, on foot, nine miles to a mill. His parents died when he was twelve years of age, leaving a younger brother and sister to his care. All these responsibilities, assumed so early in life, went to fit him for a singularly successful career as a man. While working out from 1850 to 1857, lie managed to attend school, thus laying a basis for the industry and self reliance that has always distinguished him. In 1857 lie began to study law with Wolcott & Upson of Akron, Ohio, and after being with them for two years, was admitted to tlie bar by the Supreme Court of Ohio. He was with Otis & Coffinbury, of Cleveland, for a short time, but never practiced at the bai. In 1860 he removed to Grand Rapids and engaged in the lumber busi- ness. No sooner was he well established than the call to arms in 1861 swept away all his thouglits from business. In August, 1861, he enlisted as a private soldier in the Second Michigan Cavalry, being commissioned as Captain when the regiment was mustered in on the second of September. He saw much active service, was wounded several times, taken prisoner in 1863 resigned and honor- ably discharged in 1864, made Brevet Brigadier General United MARTIN S. SMITH. 84 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. states Volunteers for gallant and meritorious services, to rank from the battle of Trevillian Station, Virginia, June llth, 1864, and Brevet Major General United States Volunteers June llth, ISC'), for gallant ami meritorious services during the war. Such is the briefest out- line of his war record, during the making of which he won tlie last- ing friendship of gallant "Phil" Sheridan. At the end of the civil strife he entered private life as :i citizen of Detroit, poor in health and jjurse. lie was engaged in the lumber business with Stephen and Franklin Moore, the (irni name being afterward clianged from Moore, Alger A; ('ornpanj' to Moore & Alger. Under its ]iresent niaiiageiueiit, llie firm of wliiili General Alger is jiresident lias ex- tend<'d its business rapidly, and witli the Manisti(|ne Lumber Com- pany of whirli General Aigi-r is abo iiresident, o«nsll5U,(HI0 acres of pine lands, on which are nion" than 1,000,000,0(10 feet of standing pine. These two companies cut over 140,000,000 feet a year, and employ about 1 ,200 men. To their lasting credit be it said that there has never been a strike or disturbance among their eni|)loyes. General Alger also owns large quantities of i>ino lamls in Wisconsin and in the Southern states, with tracts of reitality. MAiiTiN S. Smith, was born at Lima, Livingston County, New York, November 12, 1834. His parents. Ira D. and Sarah Snvder DAVID WIIITXEV, Jli. MAfl;V 1). I'.EXTLiiY. Smith, removed from Columbia County, New York, of which they were both natives, to Lima, v.liere they continued for a iirief period after the birth of their son, when they settled at Geneseo, Living- ston County, New York. At the age of ten Martin came with his parents to Michigan, where they established their residence in the vicinity of Pontiac. When fourteen years of age j-oung Smith obtained employment with a clothing merchant in Pontiac, from which time dates his actual experiences in business jjursuits. Ilis only education had been derived from the common schools, in which he accpiired the foundation for his sub.'eipient knowledge. Leaving his original employt-r after a short term of service, he accejited a position in the ofhce of the Pontiac Gazette, where he continued for two years. After this he secured more lucrative employment of various kinds in Pontiac, finally coming to Detroit and engaging in the jewelry business with a leading house, through which he rapidly advanced until ISoO, when he jiurchased the busi- ness. With a cash capital of ^1,000, saved from ten j'ears of hard and unremitting labor, he began his career, whidi has been one of uninterrupted success until he iias become one of Detroit's wealth- iest, in(jst influential and cultured men. His eminent abilities have jjlaced him at the head of many iiniiortaut enterprises in the con- duct of which he has achieved an enviable distinction and promin- ence. He is the incumbent President of the American Exchange Naticmal 15:vnk; Vice President of the Slate Savings Bank; P.esident Aincrii-an Eagle Toliacco Company, and Vice President of the Jlichi- gau Radiator Company. No man has done more for Detroit and no man more deserves the exalteil position he holds in public estima- tion than Martin S. Smith. DAVID WHITNEY, JR., The well know lumberman and one of Detroit's wealthiest men is a native of Westford, Massachusetts, where he was born, August 23, 1830. He was educated in the schools of his native town, and finished a course at the Westford Academy. Wlien twenty-four years old ho commenced his business career in the lumber trade at Lowell, Massachusetts in a small way, which by his energetic and proper methods was rapidly extended, until lie counted the wnole of New England and some of the adjoining states his trade territory. About this time ho formed a partnership with his brother Charles and others. They organizing large receiving and distributing yards at Ogdensburg, New York, Tonawonda, New York, Burlington, Ver- DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 85 LESTEK B. FRENCH. mont and Albany, New York, with head office at Boston, Massachu- setts. The same remains at this time with the exception of the Albany yard under the name of Skillings, Whitney & Barnes Lum- ber Company of which Mr. Whitney is president. Michigan was at that time (18.")7) being developed as a lumbering state, and to that section Mr. Whitney directed his attention. He invested heavily in timber lands and made money rapidly. In 1801 he took up his resi- dence in Detroit where he has remained ever since and has been one of the chief factors in advancing the city's varied interests. He has built several of the largest business blocks in the city, notably the Whitney block cornei of Grand Circus Park and Woodward avenue, stores of R. H. Traver, Woodward avenue, William Reid, Lirned street, Leonard & Carter, Schwankovsky, W. E. Barker, J. E. Davis & Company and others. Besides liis heavy holdings in lumber, Mr. Whitney is one of the largest vessel owners on the lakes. He also owns large interests in various manufacturing, banking and mining industries. To such men as Mr. Whitney, Detroit owes its progress as a manufacturing and shipjiing centre. Mr. Whitney has been twice married, his first wife was Mrs, Flora A, Veyo; second, her sister Sara J. McLauchlin. He has one son and three daughters. BENTLEY LUMBER COMPANY. Maury D Bentley was born in Rome, Michigan, in 1860, and came to tliis city when quite young, obtaining a thorough public school education. In 1878 he entered the employ of his father, who was in the oil business on Jefferson avenue. In 1883 he became a partner in this business, and the firm name was changed to the Bentley Oil Company. The business was sold to the Standard. Oil Company in 1890, and in June of that year he oi-ganized the Bentley Lumber Company. This was formerly at 36 Seitz Block, is now located in handsome offices in the Buhl Block. Mr. Bentley is pres- ident and treasurer, Charles V. Sales, secretary of this company. The firm's specialty is cutting white pine and oak sliip timbers and handling heavy long timber. LESTER B. FRENCH, Dealer and broker in pine and mineral lands, was born at Can- non, Michigan, in 1856, and lived on a farm, attending school until the age of 14, when he removed to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he comijleted his education. At the age of 17 lie began the actual battle of life for himself in the hotel business at Muskegon, Michigan, subsequently taking up photography, he and his brother at one time owning and operating eleven galleries in different cities of the United States and Canada. His next venture was in the manufacture of cigars at Cincinnati and in the conduct of a jobbing business in that line, in which he was engaged for over two years. Subsequently removing to Detroit, he engaged in the real estate business, which he has since successfully conducted, latterly con- fining his attention to the purchase and sale of pine and mineral lands and in developing his property in Detroit. Mr. French has been from boyhood familiar with pine lands, having been born in the region of Michigan celebrated for its extensive growth of that timber. He owns large and valuable tracts of pine lands in Mich- igan and does a brokerage business in pine lands located in various sections of the country. His investments in Detroit real estate aggregate over $20,000, and he has valuable real estate property at Grand Rapids, Michigan, besides 120 acres of mineral lands in the ujaper Michigan Peninsula situated near the Republic mine which was sold for 15,000,000, and other property in Chicago on Indiana avenue. Mr. French may justly be classed ranong the younger men of Detroit who have achieved notable successes. Besides the above, among the leading lumber dealers in Detroit may be mentioned A. Backus, Jr., & Sons, Brownlee & Company, Delbridge, Brooks & Fisher, Delta Lumber Company, Hutton, Myles & Weeks, Moilat, Etherly & Company, S. J. Murphy, and the estate of Thomas Nester. PICTURE FRAMES, MIRRORS ETC. THE HARGREAVES MANUFACTURING COMPANY. This industry, the leading establishment of its character in the country, was organized and incorporated in 1872, with a capital stock of $150,000. Ic has since its inception been of continual advancement and expansion, and its trade relations embrace the entire United States and the Dominion of Canada, with a large anl steadily increasing exjiort trade. The line of goods manu- factured consists of fine picture frames, moldings and art goods, of which in high character and volume of output this company far exceeds any similar institution in America. The buildings com- prising the varied manufacturing essentials of the business cover the whole block, represented in Howard, Seventeenth and Eighteenth streets, with commodious and handsomely appointed THOMAS E. REEDEB 86 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, LV.MAX. II. liAI.DWIN. offices and slcnk rooms at 60 Eighteenth street. The macliinery and appliances for the expeditious and thorough conduct of the extensive operations of the factory are of tlie latest and most improved description. Constant employment is given to 2J0 hands, and their products represent 1.200 different varieties of inoldin^;s, in addition to picture frames of ornate and elegant designs, iini(|iie toilet cases and art goods of the most superior fabrication and ornamentation. The best quality of material only is used, and eich article of tlie manufactures is critically inspected before leaving the factory. The company employ four traveling salesmen, who represent it in the leading markets of the country. Tlie official administration is in capable and experienced hands, and is con- ducted in the most thorough and efficient manner by the following gentlemen: F. T. Sibley, president; W. J. f'hittenden, vice- president; Thomas E. Reeder, manager, and Lyman II. Baldwin, secretary and treasurer, all of whom are identified willi the interests of tlie company and tlie factors of its culmination into the largest and most progressive industry of its kind in tlie country. TnojL\s E. Reeder, manager of the Ilargreaves Manufacturing Coniiiany, was born at Detroit November 4, 1861. He was educated in the city public schools, and has been connected witli the Ilargreaves Manufacturing Company since 1879, beginning as office boy, and rising to his ))resent responsible position, which he has filled witli signal credit and consiiicuous abilities for live years. Mr. Reeder is of English parentage, and his father was among Detroit's early settlers, tlie old Reeder homestead, more familiarly known to the older residents as the Reeder farm, being now included in the city limits. His fatlier was for forty years identified witli Lake Superior copper interests. In Mr. Thomas E. Reeder Detroit possesses one of its most eminent industrial representatives. As manager of the Ilargreaves Manufacturing Company, of which he is a Director and one of the largest stockholders, he has essentially contributed to tlie marked success which has attended its operations. He is a prominent member of various social, HARQREAVES MANUFACTURINO COMPANY'S FACTORY. DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. ^7 athletic, hunting and fishing clubs, in several of which he is an officer. He married Miss LeBeau, of Montreal, and has one child, a son. He is active, experienced, sagacious and critical, and person- ally superintends the detiilaof every department of the extensive business. Lyman H. Baldwin, secretary and treasurer Hargreave Manufacturing Company, was born at Detroit, April 18, 1844. His parents removed from Connecticut to Detroit in 1842. His father was a member of the firm of Hay den & Baldwin, extensive manufacturers of harness and saddlery hardware. Mr. Baldwin was educated in the city public schools and at Goldsmith's Business College. He entered his father's employ in the fall of 1860, and continued with him and after his death with the firm of P. Hayden & Company, up to Match, 1883. During the same year he became associated with the Hargreaves Manufacturing Company, becoming in 1884 its s cretary and treasurer, which offices he has since held, discharging his duties with commendable zeal and fidelity. He is a director and stockholder in the company, and gives his exclusive time and attention to incumbent interests. He was married in 1871 to Miss J. Adele Strong and has two sons. J. C. WIDMAN. C. D. WIDMAN & COMPANY. This establishment for the manufacture of mirrors and mirror frames, was founded in 18(35, as C. and C. D. Widman, at Rochester, New York, and was removed to Detroit in 1867, tlie business having been purchased by Mr. C. D. Widman, who subsequently formed a copartnership with Messrs. J. C. Widman, Sylvester L. Rich and J. W. Ailes, under the firm name of C. D. Widman & Company. In 1884, after the death of Mr. C. D. Widman, the business was re- solved into a joint stock company, the firm name being retained, of which Mr. J. C. Widman became jiresident, Mr. Sylvester L. Rich, secretary and treasurer, and Mr. J. W. Ailes, a director and practi- cal representative. The capital stock is |G0,000. The buildings and yards on Trombley avenue cover three acres. The equipment for manufacturing is of the latest and most improved order, and in- cludes specially devised machinery and requisite appliances. This company is recognized as being the most perfect in facilities and appointments of any similar institution in the country, manufac- turing their own frames and doing the work of silvering and bevel- ing, thus completely finishing the mirrors in their own factory. About 100 hands are constantly employed and the products find SYLVESTER L. EICH. ready sale in the markets of the United States, Canada and South America. The character of the goods manufactured is excelled by none in the country, the ambition of the company being to distance competition by superior workmanship, new ideas in design and finish and the employment of the best and most critically selected material. They are the only manufacturers in the United States making mirrors in completed shape in their own factory, which can be produced of any required size, from the smallest to the largest known. A constant demand keeps the factory running on full J. W. AILES. J 88 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMFRCE. time and characterizes it as among the leading and most prominent industries of its kind in tlie country. J. C. WlDMAX, president of C. I). A\ uluian & Company, was born at Rocliester, New York, November 30, 1848, and received his education in the public schools of that city. At the early age of thirteen he entered tiie employ of Thomas Turpin in his native city, at that time the only manufacturer of picture mouldings west of New York City. At tlie ageof seventeen, he and his brother, C. 1). "Widnian, the founder of the irresent Inisiness of C. D. Widman & Company, came to Detroit and established tliat industry. Three years later with the capital a(i|uinil from his hard-earned savings he embarked in business for himself in a retail grocery at Uochesler, New York, and after a successful career of ten years returned to Detroit and became associated as a partner in his brother's business. Ilis entire time and attention have since been directed to the details of the manufacture of mirrors ami niirrror frames, liis perogative being the management and direction of the mechanical dei)art- ment of the business. J. W. AiLF.s, a director of C. D. 'SVidman & Company, was born at Alliance, Ohio, April 23, 1858, and atthe age of IGgraduated from the high school of that town with the liighest honors of his class. He began his business career as a traveling salesman for a Cleveland firm in his seventeenth year, and after two years became as-sociated in the same capacity with C. D. AVidman & Company, at Detroit. After five years of service he was admitted to jiartnership, and has since proven an invaluable factor of the business. He stdl represents the interests of tlie company as a traveling salesman, and is a director and practical administrator of its affairs. Leonard Laurense & Company are extensive manufacturers of moulding and jiicturc frames. HOTELS. There are few cities in the union whose hotels have a better reputation than those of Detroit. Their fame has gone abroad and KUSSELL HOUSE. Sylvester L. Rich, secretary and treasvirer of C. D. Widman & Company, the son of George M. Rich, one of the [lioneer settlers of Detroit, was born in that city July 22, 1853. Ho was put to school, completing his education in 1864, at which time he began to earn his own living as an office assistant in the employ of M. S. Smith & Company, serving in that relation for five years. He next became associated with the business of C. D. "Widman & Com- pany, beginning in an humble capaerior tonsorial and bathing establishments assist in rendering the Russell House one of the most comfortable, conven- ient, and desirable stopping places for the tourist seeking immunity from monotony and its incident cares. During the past year magnificent improvements, embracing thirty additional bath rooms and gentlemen's public and private toilet rooms exquisitely finished in Italian marble has been made. The ordinary and breakfast room has been remodeled, and is wainscoted in Spanish mahogany, and ornamented with elegant chiseled stone and tile fire-places, which, with new electric combination gas fixtures, new furniture and carpets with other modern appliances of comfort appreciably contribute to its attractiveness and conveniences. Its splendidly appointed billiard hall affords a pleasing recreation to the lovers of the captivating siinrt. Among the most pleasurable experiences of Detroit that can be borne away by visitors who have sojourned at tlie Russell House are the pleasant and agreeable imjiressions thus engendered, and the courteous demeanor of the proprietors and their attentive assistants, who are ever pronounced in their efforts to insin-e the comfort and satisfaction of their guests. WILLIAM J. CHITTENDEN. L. A. MCCREARY. William J. Chittenden, member of the firm of Chittenden & McCreary, proprietors of the Russell House, was born April 28, 1835, and was educated at tlie Jeffo'son County institute at Water- town, N. Y. Coming to Detroit in 1853, he obtained a clerksliip in the postoffice, where he remained for two years. Returning to Watertown, N. Y., he became a clerk in a bank, which position he retained until 1858, when he returned to Detroit, and for six years succeeding he served as a clerk in the Russell House. Upon the succession to proprietorship of VVitbeck & Chittenden, tlirough a lease of the property in 18G4, Mr. Cliittenden became directly associated with its management and its good fortunes since. By the admission to partnership in 1877, of Mr. L. A. McCreary, tlie firm's name was changed to Witbeck, Cliittenden & Company, and which upon the death of Mr. Witbeck, in January, 1882, it was altered to W. J. Chittenden & Company, and in 1890 it became as now constituted Chittenden & McCreary. Mr. Chittenden was married in 1866 to Miss Irene Williams, daughter of Gen. AlpheusS. Williams, and has five childi'en. He is the president of the Hargreaves Manufacturing Comj^any, a director of the First National bank and of the Michigan Wire and Iron Works. L. A. McCreary, member of the firm of Cliittenden & McCreary, proijrietors of the Russell House, was born September 1, 1844, at Independence, a small town in Western Pennsylvania, on the Virginia line. His father was a prosperous merchant and farmer, and the son was educated at the best schools of that period. In 1863 Mr. McCreary made his first venture in the hotel business with Jolm McDonald Crossan, proprietor of the historic Monongha- hela House, at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, which prominently maintained its reputation and priority among the more notable hotels of that day. He continued in this relation up to 1866, when he engaged with Kirkwood Brothers, of Washington, D. C, as chief clerk of the Weddell House, at Cleveland, Ohio, where he remained until the spring of 1869, when upon the retirement of the firm from business, he came to Detroit, taking the position of chief clerk at the Russell House, which he retained until 1877, when he was given an interest in the business, the firm being Witbeck, Chittenden & Company, which upon the death of Mr. Witbeck in 1883, was changed to W. J. Cliittenden & Compan}', and again at the beginning of 1890, Cliittenden & McCreary as it is now constituted. Mr. McCreary has, since his connection with the Rus- sell House, been instrumental in promoting its high reputation and go DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. stas: Kss ;VB,* «. sax rism- ^^ 'Mfii-. --.- *^'«» •^A^ f^5?fci Vi. \'^'%L ^-'.SS^.'S^ DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 91 prosperity througli liis enterprising and popular principles and superior management of tlie details of the business. HOTEL CADILLAC. Keeping pace with the vigorous growth of our enterprising city, tlie Hotel Cadillac has renewed its youth and gained strength and beauty in its rapid development. This popular house was opened by Van Est & Gi-aves in 1S88, and altliough from the start it ranked among the first-class and leading hotels of this part of tlie country, its energetic proprietors were not satisfied until they liad done all in their power to perfect and beautify it to its present inviting proportions, and considering the enormous labor and expense in putting up and ojier-ating so magnificent an hostelry, it is a marvel seldom realized that it was filled with guests and en- joyed a prosperous and paying condition from it earliest history. In order to meet the growing demands of its patronage, the proprietors were compelled to extend its already large capacity by the addition of an extension which now nearly covers the area reaching from Wasliington, State and Rowland streets. The imposing structure as it now stands consists of five stores and a basement, and is con- structed throughout with all the modern improvements from ground to roof. It contains between 300 and 400 rooms, elegantly QUARTOS A. GRAVES. furnislied and elaborately fitted and equipped. Its long corridors, magnificent plate glass mirrors, cool retreats, palatial parlors, commo- dious sample rooms, newsroom, smoking rooms, bar, telegraph ofilce, lavatories, etc., are marvels of comfort and convenience. Passing up the marble stairway to the dining room on the second floor, the plate glass windows reveal a magnificent dining liall capable of seating over 450 guests, where all that delights tlie palate can be indulged. In brief, the wayfaring man cannot err if he goes therein expecting to find all desirable comforts outside of home. The Cadillac held its formal re-oiiening reception on its comiiletion to its present con- dition, on May 18th, and throngs of deliglited visitors inspected its improvements which are indeed an ornament to any citj-, and the especial pride of residents of Detroit. Quartus A. Graves, one of its popular proprietors, whose portrait is here presented, was born in Norwich, New York, January 37th, 1842. His fatlier was an ex- perienced liotel keeper, and liis son comes naturally fitted to the same position wliich he adorns with credit to liiinself and to the perfect satisfaction of all who favor him with their patronage. JAMES E. HAVES. WAYNE HOTEL. James R. Hayes, proprietor of the Wayne Hotel, was born at Morrisville, New York, Marcli 23, 1854, and removed with his parents to Grand Rapids, Micliigan, when but eleven years of age. It was in this city that he received his education and where his first venture was made in actual business as a clerk in a grocery store. He con- tinued to perform service in tliis relaticm for four years, after which he became steward of Sweet's hotel and clerk in the Morton House, ALBEET MAXWELL. 92 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. Grand Rapids, steward of the Bancroft House, Saginaw, and again steward of Sweet's hotel, Grancl Ra])ids. He next undertook the management of the Arlington at Petoskey, which is conducted as a summer resort, during the winter, managing the Exchange hotel at Montgomery, Alabama, Sanford House, at Sanford, Florida, and Hotel Indian River at Rock Ledge, Florida, up to the winter of 18S7 when lie came to Detroit to open the new Wayne Hotel under the proprietorship of W. P. F. Meserve. In the succeeding fall Mr. Hayes became the sole proprietor of the Wayne which he has suc- ceeded in making one of the essentially popular hotels of the country. It is located opposite the Michigan Central dejxit and within a few minutes walk of the j)rincipal business districts, objects of interest, theatres, art museum, parks and boulevanls and the grand and boai'tiful Detroit river, in summer teeming with the sail and steam craft by whicl'. may be reachccl the almost inrmito jioints of attrac- tion along its borileis and upon the great lakes. The Wayne is entirely new and is fitted up in avdern style in the most superb popular Griswold House, lias been a man of many enterprises, most of wliich have been eminently successful. But he counts his present venture as his most satisfactory one, and hopes that he is a fixture in it for many years, a wish which his hundreds of friends throughout tlie United States will echo. He was ~>i years olil on the ."ith of April, 1891, and was born in Toronto. His education was of the '•rough-and-tumble" district school variety, under teachers whose love of "discipline" was greater than their book learning; but he kept at school as regularly as the somewhat irregular school sessions of those times allowetl, until he was about 17 years of age, also working on the farms of his father and brothers. This was not to his taste, and he started a countrj- store for general mer- chandise, which did not meet his expectations. When 2^! years old, he entered the Royal Hotel, at Hamilton, Ontario, as manager, where he remained for seven years. He was married to Jliss Maria Van Norman, of this place, in 18.%. Mr. JIaxwell had a strong desire to start in the liotel business on his own account, and WAYN]-; llDTEL. manner, the appointments including electric lights, electric call bells, (.team heat, K:imtary plumbing, elevators, ;>'icl every requisite of the first-class hotel. It contains 2O0 guest cho -ibers, handsomely fur- nisheil and opening into spacious halls ricnly cari)eted and brill- iantly lighted. The cuisine and service are of the best and have given the Wayne a reputation and distinction amply evidenced by its patronage, almost continually re(|uiring the fullest extent of its accommodation. In the spring of 1890 Mr. Hayes oecame the lessee of the Grand Hotel at Mackinac, which is celebrated among the summer resorts of the lake country. He also still conducts the Arlington at Petoskey, of which he is one of the proprietors. Mr. Hayes is a veritable host and tluirougldy understands and ai)preci- ates the necessity of appropriately administering to the demands of the traveling public. URISWULD HOU.SE. Mk. ALBEitT MjVXWEll, the popular proprietor of the equally in isfi.") he went to New York as manager of the Union Club, where he remained for four years. This brought to him the long-desired chance, and he and Mr. Coleman bought out the old Cooper House, a famous summer liotel in Coopcrstown, New York. After five years of variable success, Mr. Maxwell concluded he would enjoy working in a larger field and sold out. Mr. Ma.xwell con- ducted si.x eating houses on the line of the Michigan Central Railroad for several years. These were wonderfully popular and successful until the "flyers" were put on the road, with their accompanying dining cars. Foreseeing the cut that this would make in his profits, Mr. JIaxwell sold out all his eating houses and came to Detroit. After t'le death of James Gerrans, of the Gris- wold, the hotel was carr;:_'d on by his executors until Mr. Maxwell secured the lease and to..k charge of the hotel in the spring of 1889. lie bought the furniti;;'e from the estate, and in addition, has spent about $4,000 remodeling the oftices, putting in steam, natural gas, DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 93 ^^^^'^:% '"l'Pl**li..i'll! iiiiMiii-iJiiy ' Ml m to d»r^-TSwr- 1S9 'P9 HOTEL NOEMANDIE. FRANK H. CAER. EDGAR F. REEVE. 94 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, etc., handsome new velvet carpets having been put down in the halls asain in the spring of 1891. Mr. Maxwell says with the emphasis of truth: "This is one of the very best locations in Detroit, and if a handsome new building with all tlie modern improvements went up here, there would be no limit to its patronage, beyond the limit of its capacity, its reputation is so well established from its beginning." liOTKL NORMANDIE, One of Detroit's most notable hostelries is located on Congress street, near Woodward avenue, was opened April 23, 1890, under the i)roi)rietorship of Jlessrs Frank H. Carr, and Edgar F. Reeve, botli of wliom are tlioiiniughly experienced in hotel management. The building occupied is of handsome architectural desi-; ii, 50x ir)0 in dimensions, and of a height of six stories. It is coiiiplittly fur- nished with modern accessories in furnishings, and is fully e(iuipped Toledo, Ohio, in which he continued for five years and which office he creditable served. In June 1882, he together with Mr. A. B. Dickinson of Hillsdale, Michigan, purchased the furniture and lease of the Hotel Brunswick, at Detroit, which they successfully con- ducted for seven years. Mr. Carr is also interested in the Bryant Hotel at Flint, Michigan. In the Spring of 1889 the business of the Brunswick was transferred to Flint and merged into that of the Bryant, over which Mr. Carr devotes most careful attention and of which he is the moving spirit of success. Through- out his whole career in the hotel business, Mr. Carr has main- tained a distinguisheer day ; a controlling interest in two coal mines in Pennsylvania, with a capacity of 40lt,()(l0 tons per year, and is the general man- ager of tlie Inter-State Coal Car Supply Company. lie operates 600 cars in running coal from his Pennsylvania mines to Canada. Mr. Shi|)man is otherwise prominently idenlilied with leading indus- tries in Detroit ; is president of the Michigan Savings and Loan Association ; a director in the Home Sivings Bank, the Frontier Iron and Brass Works, and owns stock in three Detroit banks. He is now organizing a company with $1,000,000 capital to develop mining projierty consisting of 25,000 acres in Pikeville, Tennessee. PITTMANS & DEAN, "Whose coal offices are at 92 Griswold street, in the Lewis block, have a coal trade which is constantly increasing. The original busi- ness was founded thirty-five years ago by James E. Pittmans, and six years ago the business was assumed by Messrs. L. M. Pitlmans and Charles A. Dean, James E. Pittmans retiring from active ser- vice to take the superintendency of the police, though retaining an interest in the business. They own yards on Atwater street, Ijetween Hastings and Rivard streets, at the corner of Gratiot avenue and the Belt line, at the Woodivard avenue railroad crossing, and a dock and yard at the foot of Riopelle street, these covering in all about five acres. They ship direct from the Hocking Valley mines, from mines in Jackson, Ohio, from the Pennsylvania anthracite coal fields, and soft coal from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. They own about forty horses, but are obliged to employ many more during the busy season, when they also work 125 men, with an office foice of ten more. They are thus fully equipped to fill all onlers received with absolute fidelity and promptness, all their yards being connected with the railway system of Detroit. About three years ago the firm entered into the ice business on a small scale, which has since grown to large dimensions. The ice is cut from a lake near Hillsdale, and is exceptionally pure. Five ice houses, substantially built and con- COAL DEALERS. O. AV. SIIll'.MAN. The consideration of coal in Detroit has been invested with great importance through the extensive operations of its local dealers. Among these, O. W. Sliipman, whose business was estab- tablished in 1874, is entitled to conspicuous notice as having DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. lOl L. M. PITTMANS. ' veniently situated, are used in storing tlieir product. L. M. PiTTMANS, is a native of this city, born July 22nd, 1856. He received an excellent education from the Detroit public schools, and during liis vacations served on the United States Lake Survey, as recorder. October 4, 1887, he was married to Miss Steuart, of Baltimore, and they have two children, both boys. Mr. Pittmans is fond of aquatic sports, and trained the winning Junior Four in the regatta of the National Amateur Rowing Association, held at .^ -feh Detroit in 1883, pulling bow. He has been one of the most active members of the Detroit Boat Club, and also belongs to tlie Michigan Yacht Club, the Michigan Athletic Association, and the Detroit Club, and having considerable nmsical ability, is a valued member of the Boylston Club. His energy as a business man has won for him well deserved financial success, and his genial social qualities command for him lasting popularity among his many friends. Charles A. Dean was born in Detroit, March 26th, 1854. and has developed into one of the city's most solid and substantial busi- ness men. After leaving tlie high school in 1871, he entered the old Second National Bank, now the Detroit National Bank, where he remained until 18S1, when he went into the coal business at the Woodward avenue railroad crossing. May 1st, 1885, he became a member of tlie present firm of Pittmans & Dean, of which he always lias been an active and efficient factor. He is a member of the Detroit Club, of the Detroit Athletic Club, of which he has been a popular director, and of the Rushmere Hunting and Fishing Club. He was married October 8, 1878, to Miss Esselstyn, daughter of the late Henry Esselstyn, and has two children, a boy and a girl. CHARLES A. DEAN. W. J. GorLD. GROCERIES AND KINDRED LINES. In this department of trade Detroit occupies a notably distin- o-uished position in the examples afforded of its representatives, who may well be characterized as among the more reputable and eminent in the country. The dis'.inctive signification accorded the grocery line was among the results of competition and the modern i'lea of giving a separate identity to branches of business which in the earlier history of the country were classed together. Originally the store keeper kept a stock of great diversification. The general store feature of business necessarily and naturally included not alone groceries in the sense ot actual and vital necessities, but all articles comiirised in the demands of clothing, hardware and building materials and the items of luxury, all of which now par- take of a separate and distinct classification. To the grocery line, therefore, have been assigned, not only provisions in the sense of meats, which belong more particularly to the butcher, especi.^lly in their fresh condition, but coffee, tea, sugar, condiments and spices with the numerous considerations of canned goods and such articles as are classed as grocers' sundries. The year 1890 was an esjieci- ally prosperous one in the grocery trade of Detroit, and the volume I02 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. of output far exceeded that of any previous year. Besides the large firms herein described in this line, may he mentioned Johnson & Wheeler, C. W. Inslee & Companj-, Peter Henkel, and Sinclair, Evans & Elliott. W. H. Edgar & Son, sugar dealers. W. J. GOULD & COMPANY. AV. J. (iouLD, head of the wholesale grocery house of AV. J. Gould & Company, was born in England in 1830, and came with his parents to the United States in 183G, locating at Detroit. His father was eaigaged in the grocery business here, but failed in 1839, and W. J. Gould there.ifter resided with his grandfather who con- ducted a grocery upon the site of Pingree & Smith's old shoe factory. He attended school and helped about the store, in this way becoming acquainted with every detail of the retail grocery business. Naturally endowed with apjjrehensive and sagacious business instincts from his boyhood, he gradually developed the characterists which have since placed him in the fore front of the representatives of the wholesale grocery trade in Detroit, and determined his highly successful mercantile career. In 1864 he entered into partnership with JI. S. Fellers, and engaged in the wholesale grocery business at 22 Woodward avenue. Buying Mr. Fellers' interest in 1873, Mr. Gould removed to 83 Jefferson avenue, where he conducted, as sole proprietor, a very prosperous business. In 1880 the firm of W. J. (jould & Company was formed, the members which were W. J. Gould, D. D. Cady and Lewis F. Thompson. In 1S88. Mr. Gould's son, Clarence, was admitted to partnership. The firm removed to the commodious building at 59, 61 and 63 Jefferson avenue, now occupied, in 1882. W. J. Gould is a veritable self-made man. He is prudent, circumspect, and while at times may be characterized as hazardous in some of his ventures, he never fails to hit the nail on the head. He is an influential and exemplary business man, and is intimately identified with all movements directed to the commercial advancement of Detroit in the surest and best ways. The business of his house is of constant expansion, and is recognized by the trade for its principles of superior management and strict observance of the rights and interests of customers. Mr. Gould is vice-president of the Home Savings Bank and a director in the Third National Bank of Detroit. D. D. Cadt, member of the wholesale grocery firm of W. J. Gould & Company, was born on a farm in Wayne County, Michigan, and was educated in the schools of Ypsilanti, Michigan, completmg his course in the State Normal School at that place. His first venture D. D. CADT. JOHN M. DWVKK. in business was in the grocery line, in which he has since been con- tinuously engaged, with the exception of two years as the pro- prietor of a general store at New Hudson, Michigan, Returning to Detroit in 1873, he re-engaged in the grocery business as a traveling salesman for the wholesale grocery house of W. J. Gould, contin- uing in that relation up to 1880 when he became a partner, the firm name being changed tt) W. J. Gould & Company. He has been an active factor in the business and has largely contributed to its suc- cess, ilr. Cadj- is a stockholder in the Dominion Typograph Com- pany; in the Portland Chemical and Phosphate Company and in the Merchants' National Bank, of Battle Creek, Michigan. He is a member of all the Masonic bodies, and has attained the thirty- second degree. He is a member of the Detroit Athletic and the Detroit Hunting and Fishing Clubs. He married Miss Elizabeth Brewster, of Detroit, and has four children. DWYER & VIIAY. This house, the oldest in the line of wholesale fancy groceries and fruits in Detroit, was established in 1809; has enjoyed unin- terru]itt'd progress and prosperity for twenty-two years, and durnig that whole period has experienced no change in the personnel of of the firm and with but few excejitions in its clerical force. It has continued at the same location, 60 Jefferson avenue, since the beginning of the business. The annual oulpiit is from ^300,000 to $300,000 in value. The trade territory is principally Michigan, but extends to Northern Ohio and Indiana. The buildmg occupied is 20.'Ll2r) feet in dimensions, extending through to Woodbridge street, and affords ample accommodations for the business. The firm also use tiie building on the opposite corner of Jefferson avenue and Cass streets for purposes of storage. An extensive importing trade in fiiii" canned goods, fruits, sardines, maccaroni and various other goods incident to the nature of the business, is conducted. The history of the house has been one of phenomenal success, and the firm of Dwyer & Vhay take a notably high rank among the repre- sentatives in their line of business in Detroit and at the West John M. Dwyer, senior member of the firm of Dwyer & Vhay, was born in Ireland in 1838, and came when quite young with his parents to the United States, settling in New Y'ork state and renuivmg to Jlichigan in 1852. His father was for many years engaged in the fruit trade at Detroit and the son followed in the same line, in which he has since been continuously engaged. After DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. lO^ JAMES H. VHAY. conducting tho business alone for seven years, he formed a co-part- nership with James A. Vliay in the wholesale fancy grocery and fruit business at the present location, 66 Jefferson avenue. Mr. Dwyer is a stockholder in the Detroit and Cleveland Steam Navi- gation Company and in the Fort Wayne and Elmwood Street Rail- way Company, and is the First Vice-President of the Penninsular Savings Bank, of Detroit. He is the owner of much valuable real estate and is a prosperous merchant and a prominent business man. He is married and has five children. James H. Vhay, member of the firm of Dwyer & Vhay, was born at New Bedford, Massachusetts, in 1839, and was educated in the sciiools of that city. He worked for four years on a farm, and afterward engaged in the printing business. In 1863 he came to Detroit, and was among the first to establish the business of sup- plying that market with vegetables and fruits from Cleveland, Ohio, conducting at the same time a fruit store. John M. Dwyer was at that time a competitor, but in 1869 these gentlemen formed a copartnership for the conduct of the wholesale fancy grocery and fruit business, which they have since successfully prosecuted. In tlK" interval to the present time they have become interested in various mercantile and manufacturing enterprises. They hold stock in street railways and in the Detroit and Cleveland Steam Navigation Company. Mr. Vhay is tlie president of the Fort Wayne and Elmwood Street Railway Company, as successor to Justice Brown, of the United States Supreme court ; a trustee of the Mt. Elliott Cemetery Association, and was a director of tlie Detroit International Fair and Exposition. He has given much attention to various clubs, and has been president of the Catholic Club and a director in several similar institutions. Mr. Vhay was married at Boston in 1866 to Sliss JIary Farrell, and has Ave children. He owns a farm of fifty acres, five miles from the City hall, near Nallville, upon which his system of experimental farming has proven very PHELPS, BRACE & COMPANY. This wholesale grocery liouse was established in 1836, and is now the oldest house in this line in the city. Its founder, William Phelps commenced business in a small store on Woodward avenue with less than one hundred dollars in stock. As the business grew, he admitted his brother, Samuel Phelps, to an interest, and the firm became William Phelps & Brother, removing soon after to Jefferson avenue In 1808, Samuel Phelps withdrew and Mr. O. Staples bought an interest in the firm, the name being changed to William Phelps & Company. Mr. William H. Brace, the present senior member, was admitted to the firm in 1861, having been with them for five years. He at once assumed active management of the business, William Phelps being with the troops at the front during the entire period of the war. Mr. Staples retired from the firm in 1870, a short time before his death. Col. Phelps died in 1879, and after his death the firm name of Phelps, Brace & Company, was adopted and con- tinued to the present time. In the early history of the house, the manufacture of candy and fireworks formed an important part of the business. This was continued until 1870, wlien they sold out this brancli of the business to J. B. Fox & Company, who afterward consolidated with Gray & Toynton, forming the great manu- facturing confectionery lnjuse of Gray, Toynton & Fox. The present firm is composed of Wm. H. Brace, Calphurnia B. Phelps Charles B. Phelps and William V. Brace. They have occupied their present quarters twenty-two years. The building is a brick structure with four stories and a basement, 40x100 feet. This con- tains the commodious, well lighted offices and sample rooms of the firm, among the handsomest and best appointed in the state. To accommodate tlieir increasing business, it was necessary a few years ago to build an immense storage warehouse 00x130 feet on Lamed street in the rear of their store. The business of the firm includes all branches of the wholesale grocery trade and continues to grow in volume witli a strong and steady increase. The firm were among the first to import teas in this state, and their warehouses are bonded for the United States inspection of Japan Teas. This places Detroit on a par with New York and Chicago for the direct importation of teas. The business of the firm in this line has grown to large proportions. William H. Brace, the senior member of the wholesale grocery firm of Phelps, Brace & Company, was born April 3, 1834 at New- burg, a small town which now is a part of Cleveland, Ohio. When he was about nine years old, he moved with his family to Plattsburg, New York and two years later from there to Janesville, Wisconsin. This latter trip was made behind a team of sturdy farm horses at- tached to what was then known as a "prairie schooner." After a five weeks journey, much of which was through unbroken and un- settled country, they reached Janesville and at once settled down on a farm, building their own log house and barns. The next two years he spent here working hard during the summer months and WILLIAM H. BRACE. I04 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. attending school during the winter time. He entered the District school in an advanced class, his early eilucation having been begun at Newburg, and finished his schooling in tlie Janesville Academy. In ISoS he came to Detroit and at once became engaged as salesman for tlie wliolesale candy and fruit house of William Phelp-i & Brother. After three years experience in the house he went out on the road as a traveling salesman for this firm, being the first traveling salesman out of Detroit to represent goods in tliis line through Slichigan. In IHGI he left the road to assume active man- agement of the firm's business, 'William Phelps being called to the war, and was admitted as a partner, the firm name being changed to William Phelps & Company. This firm name was contiinied for ten years when it was changed to Phelps & Brace and since the death of the founder of the house, William Phelps, it has been Phelps, Brace & Company. Jlr. Brace is a director in the Y. M. C. A., and a prominent member of the Jlercliants' and Manufacturers' Exciiange. lie is prominent in Detroit financial circles as i)resident of the (,'ity Savings Bank and director in the Merchants" and Manu- facturers' Bank. He is also a director in the Michigan Wire and Iron Works, Auxilliary Fire Alai-m Company, Rockafellow Mercan- tile Company, of Carson City, Michigan, and of other institutio! s. He is a stockholder in the Detroit White Lead Works, Michigan Mutual Life Insurance Co?npany, Detroit Fire and Marine Insurance Company, tlin Portland Phosphate Company of Florida, and tlie Dominion Typograph Comiiany. MORAN-FITZSIMONS COMPANY, LIMITED. Patrick Fitzsimons, of the wholesale grocery house of Moran- Fitzsimons Company, Limited, was born in 1834, in County Leitrim, Ireland. His father. Doctor Fitzsimons, hold a leading position, in liis section. Mr. Fitzsimons' education was received at home and afterwards at the National school. AVlien he was 14 years of age liis father died, and one year later his mother died. Early in the spring of 1853 he sailed to America, and came west as far as his money would allow, arriving in Detroit in April, 18.52, and has remained liere ever since. Soon after his arrival he obtained a situation with Mr. E. W. Jones, who kept a retail grocery store on the corner of Lamed and Wayne streets. Mr. Jones was strictly honest and economical to a degree, but had a strong predjudico against Irishmen, so in starting in. Mr. Fitzsimons had that to contend against. Mr. Jones always paid exactly what he agreed, but in Sir. Fitzshnons' case he paid more. He agreed to •TV *fe^ PATRICK FITZSIMONS. JOHN V. MOHAN. pay $4.00 [ler iiKnith but paid him $6.00, and took a great interest in his welfare. Jlr. Jones obtained a situation for Mr. Fitzsimons with M. P. Hutchins, at that time one of the largest wholesale grocery firms in Detroit, where he remained for five years. The first year he received $1.jO and board and his wages were advanced .$200 each succeeding year, and were fixed in a novel way. Neither of the parties wanted to fix on a figure, so each made an amount on paper and agreed to compromise so that any difference would be divided, and it is a singular fact that the amount put down by eacli was exactly the same, so that there was nothing to divide. B. G. Stim- son was then book-keeper for Mr. Hutchins and when he retired from business Mr. Stimfon stalled and Jlr. Fitzsimons went with liim. He next accepted a position with Stephens & Beatty as traveling salesman and collector and was quite successful in Ijoth. He obtained a large increase of salary each year, receiving |2,000 the last year. He feels great; satisfaction in saying that he earned every cent of salary paid him, working early and late, some times until the small hours of the morning to finish what he was at, and not; an unpleasant word v^as ever said to liim as clerk or part- ner in the whole of his business career. Stephens & Beatty dis- solved in lS(i4 and James Beatty, P. Fitzsimons and Simon Mandle- baum formed a new partiiersliip which continued till March 1872. This firm dissolved and Mr. J. V. Moran bought out Mr. Mandle- baum's interest. This firm continued under the style of Beatty, Fitzsimons & Company until Mr. Beatty's death in 188.') when it was changed to Moran, Fitzsimons & Company and in 1891 it was changed to the corporation of JIoran-Fitzsimons Company, Limited, with J. V. Moran, President, P. Fitzsimons, Vice-President and Slanager and F. A. Thomas, Secretary and Treasurer. Mr. Thomas has been with the firm for over twenty-five years. The increased number of stockholders and capital will add largely to the success of the new firm whoso business during the different firms has always been successful. Mr. Fitzsimons has confined himself to this business and never engaged in outside speculation. He was one of the original stockholders in the Peo])le's Savings Bank and has been a director from the time of its organization to the present. John V. Moran, of the wholesale grocery house of Moran, Fitzsimons Company, Limited, was born at Detroit, December 25, 1840. His father was one of the early French settlers here and secured lands under patents from President JIadison. After receiving preliminary instruction in the Christian Brothers' schools, who DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 105 were connected with old St. Anne's and Sts. Peter and Paul's parishes, he attended the Detroit High school and Philo M. Patterson's private school, taking a course of higher mathe- matics in each. Before entering upon a business career, he went through a course of training at a commercial college. In 1876 he became associated with the wholesale grocery house of Moses W. Field & Company, as clerk, continuing in that relation for fifteen months. He then engaged with John Stepliens & Company, in the capacity of assistant book-keeper, their store being the one now occupied by the Moran-Fitzsimons C'ompany. After remaining with tills house for eighteen months, he became connected with the firm of Beatty & Fitzsimons, as shipping clerk. This firm was subsequently succeeded by the firm of Moran, Fitzsimons & Company, the location being at 16, 18 and 30 Woodward avenue. After continuing with Beatty & Fitzsimons for two years, he purchased the interest of Mr. Simon Mandelbaum, the special partner in the business. The firm name changed to Beatty, Fitzsimons & Company-, and at the deatli of Mr. Beatty, in 1885, it became Moran, Fitzsimons & Company, and so con- tinued until 1891. Mr. Moran is the secretary and one of the directors of Ward's Detroit and Lake Superior line of steamers ; a director in tlie Peoples' Savings bank ; vice-president of the American Banking and Savings Association ; director of the Catholic Club and Detroit Boat Club. He was one of the organizers of the Detroit Club, of which he was the treasurer, and was prominently identified with the organization of the Merchants' and Manufacturers' Exchange. He assisted in the organization of the Gale Sulky Harrow Company, now known as the American Harrow Company. He is a member of the St. Vincent de Paul conference, and is a faithful, earnest anl distiiiguislied represen- tative of every movement and interest jirompted by philanthrophy and good citizenship. WARD L. ANDRUS & COMPANY. The notable elevation of Detroit as a commercial emporium and its conspicuous position among the markets of the country have been secured by its younger business men, many of whom have won meritorious distinction for eminent abilities and sterling characteristics. In the ranks of these distinguished representatives may well be placed Mr. Ward L. Andrus, who has, for over nine- teen years, been actively identified with the wholesale fancy grocery and fruit trade of this city. He was born at Washington, WARD L. ANDRUS. F. WILLIAM LICHTENBERG. Macomb county, Michigan, July 13, 1853. His parents were among the early settlers in the IMicliigan Territory, to which they came in 1816. Mr. Andrus received his early scholastic training in tlie com- mon schools of his native village, and subsequently took a com- mercial course at Goldsmith's Business College at Detroit. January 38, 1871, he accepted a position with D. D. Mallory & Com- pany as book-keeper, and continued in that relation with this firm for eleven ysars, when he was promoted to the responsible post of assistant general manager of the business. After filling this position very creditabh' for three years, Mr. Andrus and Mr. Gilbert W. Lee, Mr. H. M. Gilman, tlie active partner, retiring by reason of ill health, purchasing the interest of that gentleman, became the sole proprietors of the business. May 1, 1885, changing the fii-m name to the D, D. Mallory Company. Mr. Andrus becoming tlie general manager and active partner, relations he sustained with signal success and honor. In May, 1890, Mr. Andrus severed his connection with Sir. Gilbert W. Lee, and opened a large wholesale fancy grocery and fruit house at 88, 90 and 93 Jefiferson avenue, which has since been attended by lAenomenal success, due to his pectiliar command of tlie details of this business and his generally recognized popularity in the trade with wliich lie has so long and so prominently been identified. D. F. MCDONALD COMPANY, LIMITED. Tliis estalilishment was founded by Mr. D. F. McDonald in 1877. The line of business is wholesale jM-oduce, dried fruits, grain, canned goods, etc. The trade territoiy extends from New Orleans to Duluth, and from St. Joe, east to Boston. New York, and other large eastern cities. Mr. D. F. McDonald is manager of the busi- ness to which he gives his personal attention in all of its depart- ments. LICHTENBERG & SONS. V. William Liclitenbei-g, head of the firmof Liclitenberg &Sons, was born at Baden, Germany, April 30, 1843. He came with his parents in his 10th year to the United States, locating at Detroit, where he resumed and completed his education. In 1863 the firm of Lichtenberg & Sons, consisting of John J., father, and F. Wil- liam and Christian J., sons, was formeini>tly and to the best advantage. AH goods are received direct from the Cleveland refineries and are handled and Bhipi)ed in the most economical manner. The Michigan trade is catered to with the best products from the Cleveland works and at the lowest market prices. In the Detroit ofBce a full line of samples of this company's fine lubrica- ting oils is kept for the local and tributary trade, including the Capital cylinder and Eldorado engine. Correspondence addressed to the Standard Oil Company at any of the points above men- tioned will receive prompt attention. JOHN DAVIS & COMPANY. John Davis, manager of the house of John Davis & Company, was born at "Westfield, Massachusetts, May 2o, 1844 and received his education in the schools of his native town. His first venture in a('tual business was as a clerk in the drug line. He enlisted in the military service at the age of 18 in the Thirty-fourth regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers, and after one year was ajipointed hospi- tal steward in the regular army, being stationed successively at the head<]uarters of Generals Hunter, Sheridan and Crook. The close of hostilities found him at his post at the headquarters of General Crook at Cumberland, Maryland, from which point he was honorably discharged from the service. For one year succeeding this he was employed in the wholesale drug business in New York City, the death of his father compelling his return to Westfield, Massachusetts, where he engaged in the drug business on his own accoimt. His JOHN DAVIS. GILHEKT W. I.ICE. mother's declining health caused him to sell out after the tli'st year, and he removed to West Bay City, Michigan, where he resumed the drug business, from which he gradually developed his present line as a manufacturer of grocers' specialties in baking powders, spices, extracts, condiments, etc. He operates a brancli establishment at Windsor, Ontario. He also about one year ago established a plant for the manufacture of jihosphates used in baking powder, under the name of the Detroit Chemical Works. The firm of John Davis & Company is incoi-porated anil has a capital fully paid up of §30,000. The officers are F. M. Tlionipson, president ; John Davis, secretary and treasurer. The trade territory is represented by Ohio, Michi- gan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin and Canada, with an annual out- put of ^MOjOOO. Mr. Davis has three sons, the eldest of whom is a member of tlie reportorial stalf of the Detroit Free Pi'ess. THE D. D. MALLORY' COMPANY. Gilbert W. Lee, who is known over a wide territory as one of Detroit's youngest and mo t successful business men, was born in Romeo, March 28, 1861. He was educated at the Romeo Union school, receiving his diploma when 17 years of age. He soon came to Detroit to accept a positiim with George C. Wetherbee & Com- jjany, and when 21, was maile a member of the firm. He remained with them till 1885, when with Ward L. Andrus he bought the large wholes de fancy grocery house of 1). D. Mallory & (Company. This had been established in 1861 by Mr. JIallory, and was then the first exclusive oyster and canned goods house in the West. Mr. Lee believed that the perpetuation of a business name so well known as Mr. Mallory 's was of more importance than personal glorification, so the only change made in the firm name was to prefi.x a "the," so it now stands as The D. I). Mallory Company. In 1890 he i)urchased his partner's interest in the business, and is now sole proprietor, as well as financial and managerial head, of what is still one of tlie largest establishments of its kind in the West. Nearlj' every article handled by wholesale grocers is now to be found in stock at .");!. ")7 JelTerson avenue, and owing to tins addition to trade outlets the business has increased fully one-third in the past five years. Mr. Lee is also director in the Peninsular Savings Bank, vice president of the Detroit Electric Light and Power Company, (of which he was oneof the organizers), a member of the Detroit Club, Grosse Pointe Club, and the Detroit Athletic Club. Being a firm believer in Detroit's rapid advance- DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 107 ALFRED CATO. J. C. EICHHOKN. H. a. HOKTON. ment in size and wealth, he concUided he would like to own a small share of it, and has been quite an active dealer in real estate ever since. One of his transactions was buying a Woodward avenue suburb for $38,000 and selling it for $50,000 in less than six months. His residence at 67 Ferry avenue is one of the hand- somest in the city. Mr. Lee married Miss Sara Hammond, daughter of the late George H. Hammond, in 1885, and has one son: George Hammond Lee. HORTON, CATO & COMPANY. HoRTON, Cato & Company, manufacturers of fine table con- diments, was established as the firm of Horton & Cato, in 1877. Tliey are natives of England, and have, through their superior management, brought the business to its present liigh degree, under the superintendence of Mr. J. Charles Eichhorn. Their products of the Royal salad dressing is not surpassed by any in the world, and their Royal Worcestershire sauce is generally acknowl- edged' as the finest of piquant relishes. Their entire line of high grade table goods are not anywhere surpassed in character and general desirability. CARL H. MICHELL, Wholesale and retail grocer, corner of Monroe avenue and the Campus Martius, is an exemplification of what energy, activity, industry integritv and sound business methods will do tor a young man who starts in life with no other capital than the qualities above mentioned, and a fixed determination to succeed in the race for for- tune and position. He was born at Kirch-hain, Province of Hessen, in Soutliern Germany, June 5, 1853, and secured sufficient scliool- iny an able, conservative and judicious administra- tion of hiisiness. The facilities for numufacturing are of th a month, l)oarding at home. At the end of three months his i)aients moved to Grand Kapids, where he went to school six months, and in tiie spring and summer workeil on a farm. In June, 18(11, his parents moved lo Pontiac, Michigan, where ho immediately went to A\ork for the late C. R. Mabley, getting $4 for the first three weeks, then ^S a month. He remained MARTIN Hl'TZEI.. JIAUNUS BUTZEL. with Mr. JIabley five years ; then at the age of 19 went to Ionia, Michigan, engaging in business with his father. The death of his father in 1873 ])laced the interests of his estate in the hands of the son as the trustee for the heirs. The panic of 187:5 involved a large loss, and consequent losses in outside business, together with a loss of ,f8,(IO0 caused by the failure of E. Colby & Company, comi)elled a settlement with creditors which was made at 60 cents on the dollar. Tliis was accepted bj- New York, Rochester and Boston houses. The liome matters and all endorsed [juper was i)aid in full. In June, 1877, C. R. Mabley engaged him to take charge of his establishment in Detroit. In January, 1878, he was given a fourth interest in the profits of the establishment with a guarantee of |7 !)00 per annum. This partnership terminated January 10, 1881. On Apiil 2, of the same year, he opened in the Detroit Opera House building with a capital of ijsno, 000. Since retiring from the Mabley concern he has established branch houses at Cleveland, Buffalo, Toledo, St. I'aul, St. Louis aning, he re-enlisted at Cleveland, Ohio, GEOROE E. FISHER. I20 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. JOHN R. MARKLE. in the ISOtli regiment of Ohio Infantry, and served w)iile this regi- ment was iierfoxinhig garrison duty in tlio fortifications at Washing- ton, District of Columbia. After tlie war lie went to Denver, Colo- rado, where he engaged in cigar manufacturing and general mer- chandising, achieving good success. After the great fire of 1871 he went to Chicago, to embark in the grain and produce business on the board of trade, in which he continued up to 1881, when he came to Michigan in tlie interest of Edison's electric light, taking charge of the state dei>artnient of business, with headnuarters in Detroit. He sold the first incandescent light plant in the state to O. N. Tay- lor, at Ludington. He has established the Markle Engineering Company at ['-t'-i Jellerson avenue, and owns an interest in seven electric lighting ci'ntral stations estalilished by him. Nearly 100 isolated electric lighting plants have been established under his management. He has invented a number of useful and practical electrical devices, which are applicable to electrical construction, and these articles are now manufactured by the Markle Engineer- ing Company. Mr. Markle is chairman of one of the most imp.jrtant committees of the association of the Edison illuminating companies for standardizing ])roper api)aratus and practices in the business. He is an active electrical expert and proficient in the knowledge of gas as a fuel and as a lighting agent, having been instnimental in organizing the first jn'actical developments in the directi.in of artificial fuel gas. He takes a deep interest in the ques- tions of social and i)olitical economy, and in all branches of scien- tific research, his contributions to the press on these subjects having been received with markeo, Indiana and Canada. The annual output of the business is valued at $370,000, and, under the present stimulus of active demand, will in the near future largely exceed that limitation. The firm employ ample capital and command every reijuisito facility for transacting extensive opera- tions. The salesrooms at 141 and 143 Jefferson avenue comprise two buildings with dimensions of 00x100 feet with four .stories and base- ment, adequately adajited to the requirements of the business. While the members of the firm are young men, they liave already achieved the distinction of being identified with the most promi- nent and successful merchants of Detroit. This firm enjoys the distinction of being the onh- exclusive jobbers of wall paiier in the state of Michigan. They conduct a large ]>rintiiig establishment principally devottfd to the execution of railroad, cii'cular and map work. JOHN B. PRICE & COMPANY. JoHX B. Price, head of the house of John B. Price & Company, dealers in paper and printers' supplies, 123 Jefferson avenue, was the pioneer founder of this line of business in Detroit, his associa- tion with it beginning thirty-si.'C years ago as an employe of the house of Pease & Fuller. After being connected with this house for eleven years he became a member of the firm of Cornwells, Price & Compaii}', succeeded by the jiresent firm aoout ten years ago. In the fall of is.j" Mr. Price furnished the first comjilete news- paper outfit ever i>ut up in Detroit. Previously Michigan printers had procured their printing sujiplies from the East. The business has been greatly extended and embraces large trade territory, and its conduct lias been signalized by increasing enterprise and pros- perity. January 1, 1S90, Mr. William C. Jujip was admitted to partnership, the firm name becoming John B. Price & Company. PAIGE & STRACHAN. DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 121 JOHN B. PRICE. This liouse carries a full and complete stock of all styles, weights and sizes of paper, Farmer, Little & Company's type, printing inks, "Chandler & Price," "Peerless" and "Cranston" printing i>resses and paper cutters, and printers' supplies of every conceivable char- acter. Mr. Price is an able exponent of the prosperous merchant, whose long experience and knowledge of the demands of the trade invest him with notable distinction. He is a Mason and a promin- ent member of Damascus Commandery, Knights Templar, member of the Detroit Boat Club, Detroit Athletic Club, Past Grand Master A. O. tJ. W. and treasurer of the Singer Fire Alarm Company. The paper on which this book is printed was furnished to order by this firm. WiLHA.^i C. Jupp, member of the firm of John B. Price & Com- pany, was born at Detroit, July 23, 1859. After receiving Lis edu- cation in the public schools he entered the employ of Stephen F. Smith & Company, wholesale boots and shoes, as salesman. In 1883 he visited Dakota, where he purchased and still owns a farm of 160 acres. After one years exptrience in tl-.e cultivation of his Dakota farm he returned to Detroit and became associated with John B. Price as book-keeper, in which relation he quickly estab- lished a proficiency and direction in the management of the details of the business which culminated in his admission to partner- ship January ], 1890. He is secretary and treasurer of the North- western Amateur Rowing Association, director of the Detroit Boat Club and one of the original members of the Detroit Athletic Club. He is an enthusiastic admirer of all amateur manly sports in which he has always taken an active interest. Mr. Jupp has demonstrated those sterling abilities and general business characteristics which constitute commercial integrity and dis- tinguished elevation. WILLIAM C. JUPP. FACTORY OF DETROIT PAPER NOVELTY COMPANY. DETROIT PAPER NOVELTY COMPANY This concern was re-organized in April, 1890 and capitalized at $100, 000. The officers are W. B. Thompson vice-president, F. H. Farnsworth, secretary and treasurer. The annual output of prod- ucts in paper boxes, lard and oyster jiails, etc. is about ■150,000. Under the present efficient administration of its affairs it is taking leading ground among Detroit's great industries. Its trade territory includes Michigan, Ohio, Indiana. Minnesota Wisconsin, Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri with agencies, at New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, D. C. The printing is done entirely through their own outfit which has facilities adapted to every implied consideration. The works are located at the corner of Congress and Fifth streets, and comprise 150 feet on fifth street and 100 feet on Congress, five stories in height, properly lighted and adequately equipped with machinery of the invention and patent of the company. This is the only envelope plant west of Buffalo making hand made envelopes and a nuuiljer of specialties produced by no otlier concern. AMERICAN PAPER COMPANY. David Blumenthal, head of the firm of L. Blumenthal & Sons, proprietors of the American Paper Company, was born in Europe and came, when ten years old, to the United States, locating at Indianapolis, Indiana. Here he was put to school, his education being continued at Detroit, to which he removed in 1870. Upon the acceptance by his father of an agency for S. Simon & Son, paper 122 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMiMERCE. DAVID IIUJIEXTIIAL. stock dealers, he became associated with that hrancli of business, and some years later, with liis fatlicr and brothers, establislied the lirm of L. Blunieiithal & Sons, the founders of tlie American Papei Comi)any. In 1»S3 this firm was consolidated with tlie firm of S. .Simon & Son, but the jKUliiership after one year was dissolved, the business since having been conducted under its present style. The business lias been of continual growth, and througli the addi- tion of building acconiinodations and other requisite facilities has attained extensive proportions. The lirm are brought into close connection with paper mills, and liandle large quantities of paper in excliange for stock, and manufacture to order a large variety of wrajiping )japer. Tlie trade territory embraces Ohio, Micliigan, Indiana and New England. Tlie annual output aggregates in value ,|5UII,H()t). The buildnigs occupied at 207, 209 and 21 1 Larned street, west, and 2!I-j, 2!)T and 2!)!) Orleans street, afford anii)le acconiinoda- tions and are ]>ruvi(led witli requisite machinery and appliances for manufacturing. l\Ir. liluiueutlial is the active member of tiie iirm and is tliorougldy conversant witli tlie details of the business. BEECHER, PECK & I.FAVIS. The above named company located at 139 Jefferson avenue west, dates its establishnieiit from September 1, ISiss, and are noted as among the most successful and enterprising dealers in their im- portant line of trade, operating as wholesale jobbers of all varieties of ijaper and stationery, including the general requirements of deal- ers in every department of that branch of business. The present firm includes Marshall W. Beechei", Albert F. Peck and John E. Lewis. All of these gentlemen, though young in years, are old in the exi)erience and knowledge of their business, and since the date of their establishment tliey have by industry and good management combined with integrity of business principles, worlied up one of the most important industries of its kind in Michigan. Their success, dating from theit first endeavor, has continuously advanced, until they cover the entire field of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana, where they are represented by seven travelers. Thej- also employ three city salesmen to look after their large local trade. Tlie size of the l)uilding they occujiy is 30x100 feet and includes five stories. Tney fiiinish employment for about twenty-five hands. This firm is par- ticularly noteriding themselves on the fact that all orders are shipped the same day upon which the order is received. MAK.SHALL W. Beecher, senior member of the firm of Beecher, Peck & Lewis, was born in Jefferson County, New York, in 1849, and came to Michigan at the age of 17, engaging in the lumber business at Spring Lake, where he remained aliout three years. Coming to Detroit in ls69 he engaged in the drug Vmsiness, which he continued until ISSl, when in a small way lie starteil in the wboIes;ile paper trade for himself, which he carried on for about two years, at the expiration of which time he forme 1 Ids present partnership with Jlessrs. Peck & Lewis. Mr. Beecher is a tliorougldy practical business man, seldom, if ever, engaging in affairs outside of liis business, he has consequently never been in politics or public office, and his strict devotion to the commercial interests of liis firm has much to do with their present prosperous condition. Albekt F. Peck, of the firm of Beecher, Peck & Lewis, was born at Port Jarvis, Orange County, X. Y., Septeiiil«'r 8, 180:5, where he received his schooling, afterwards attending Eastiiiairs Business College, at Pouglikeepsie, N. Y. After coiiipleting his studies he came to Detroit and entered the oflice of the Northwestern Trans- portation Company, which position he lield for four j'ears, when he then formed a partnershi]) with Jtessrs. Beecher & Lewis. Sir. Peck's department of the business is the charge of the office and financial part of the establishment. Young and vigorous, he is an active business man, and fills an iinporlant niche in the liusiness lie successfully represents. John E. Lewis was born at Fredericktown, Knox County, Ohio, May 10, 18i."). When lie was eight years old he removetl to Flint, Michigan, with liis parents, and from thence he came to Detroit in January, 1801. Mr. Lewis has been in the paper business for various firms during a period of seventeen years, and since the organization of the firm of Beecher, Peck & Lewis, his time has been chiefly occupied on the road in the interests of his firm, whose success is largely rietor and Editor-in-Chief has shaped and directed the [lolicy of the paper. C'onserv- tive, yet eminently progress- ive and enterprising, the Free Press owes to his energy and ability its high standing and far reaching influence. Mr. Quinby's keen insight into cliaracter has enabled him to surround himself with a most efficient editorial and busi- ness staff, a number of whom have been associated with him for years. Always ap- proachable, * he is a most courteous and affable gentle- man, possessing qualities which greatly endear him to his friends and associates. To Jlr. Quinby and the Free Press Detroit is indebted for much of her reputation abroad and her progress and success at home. Ever identified with her business interests; striving for the enlightenment and entertainment of her citizens; having in mind her political, social and moral welfare, the paper and its editor have been and are a great jiower for good in the municipality and in the country at large. Frederick Fayram, secretary, treasurer aii, 1853. Ill 1861 his parents emigrated to Canada taking up their residence in Hamilton, Ontario, a few years later removing tD Tor- onto. While in these two cities Mr. Fayram received a common school and business education. In 1870 he removed with his father's family to Detroit where lie has since resided. His first business venture in this city was in the manufacture of cigar, shelf 124 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. WII.I.IAlt K. i.iL'INHV. mill ]jacking lioxcs, in wliich enterprise he was ongageil, wilh (Jeo. Iluiit. for about two years, when lie sold out his interest to take a ]iosition with tin; Ilargreaves Manufacturin;; Companj-. March 20, 1ST5 he accopteil a position with the Free Press Company as sub- scription clerk; after a time he was made superintenusiness manager of the Free Press Company, he purchasing Mr. Eisenlord's stock interest in the Company. Under his management the business of the paper has grown very rapidly, so much so. that it has been necessary to considerably enlarge the plant and premises to afford proper facilities. Mr. Fayram is also vice-mesident of the Detroit Free Press Printing Company. Socially Mr. Fayram is very popular; for many years he was prominent in n\usical circles, being the possessor of a rich and well trained baritone voice. For two years past, however, lie has been conipelh'd by pressure of <^k^.'f^c FREDERICK FAYRAM. TU13 SI X BriLIlINl business to retire from the active iiuisiral ranks, thoup;h he is still one of the board of directors of the Detroit Musical Society. Mr. Fayram is a member c.f Detroit Coniinandery No. 1, Knights Temp- lar, and Michigan Sovereign Consistory Ancient Accejited Scottish Rite JIasons, also of Moslilem Tenijile Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. THE SUN. Newspapers are like indiviment of machinery and appli- ances. A force of from 300 to 3o0 hands is given constant employ- ment. The business involves chromo and commercial lithography in all its branches, from the largest theatrical bill to the finest class of office stationery, and the work accomplished in artistic essentials will compare witli any executions in the line anywhere. The best talent is laid under contribution, and tlie ambition of the company to produce the highest types of excellence is constantly exercised. The Calvert Lithograi>hing and Engraving Company iiave through- out tlieir existence succeeded in creating some of the best and most commendable achievements known to the art, and are recognized conducted by an old and versatile writer, whose quaint sayings, humorous pai'agraphs and jioetic hits have for many years gone the rounds of the leading literary journals in the United States and Canada under tho 7ioM depluina of "O. P. Deldoc," and which fea- ture will brighten the homes as well as the ofticis and factories of the Herald's many readers. The subscription price of the Herald is $1.00 per year. LITHOGRAPHERS. CALVERT LITIIOGKAPIIING AXU ENtiHAVINO COMPANY. This industry, among tlie most prominent and distinguished of its character in the country, was established as the firm of Calvert & Company, in 18G1, and incorporated with its present title in ISGT. The facilities of tho business are of the best and most modern CALVKRT LITHOGRAPHING AND ENGRAVING COMPANY. as amoni; the leaders in their line, The company have branches in the principal cities of the United States, and keep a large corps of traveling salesmen on the road. FIRE AND MARINE INSURANCE. Nearly evei-yone is interested in fire insurance, at least to the extent of jiaying premiums for inilemnity against possible loss, and yet comi)aratively few are aware of tlie magnitude and steady growth of tlie business in the State of Michigan, nor what i>ropor- tion of the busine=s is done by Michigan companies, and what by companies of other States and countries. Of the 145 stock com- panies doing business in the State but three are Michigan companies, two of these being located in Detroit and tho third one in Grand Rapids. Of the 143 companies admitted to do business in the State DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE 127 thirty are companies of foreign countries, twenty-three being English, two Scotch, three German and two Canadian companies, the other 113 are companies of other States in this country. All fire insurance companies, before they can gain lawful admission to do business in this State, must submit a sworn statement of their financial affairs, sliovving their assets, liabilities, etc. to our State Commissioner of Insurance, at Lansing, who, if he finds their financial conditions sound, a license is granted by him to such com- panies, permitting them to do business in the State for one year. If such companies desire to continue doing business in tlie State they must make out new financial statements annually, showing a sound condition and obtain new license. If tlie capital of any stock com- pany becomes impaired beyond a prescribed limit, such company is not regarded safe and sound and no license is granted by our State authorities. Tlie State has farther provided for the secm-ity of its people against an inequitable contract of insurance, by prescribing a standard form of policy which all stock companies authorized to do business in the State must adopt. All of the stock fire and fire and marine insurance companies admitted to do business in Michi- gan for several years have paid their losses and such as have retired from business have provided for the protection of their policy holders by reinsuring tlieir risks in other companies, and policy holders who are insured in stock companies that are duly admitted to do business in the State may have every confidence that their indemnity against loss is and will be amply provided for. During the twenty years, from 1870 to 1889 inclusive, the amount of premiums paid in Michigan for insurance in stock fire and marine insurance companies, as reported to the State authorities, is as follows, viz.: Amount of premii.uiis on Michigan business 151,996,970 89 Amount of losses paid on Michigan business 28,607,936 87 Excess of premiums paid over losses 23,389,034 02 Allowing thirty-five per cent, of premiums for ex- penses 18,198,939 81 Leaves for the payment of dividends the sum of 5,190,091 21 In addition there is an income from interest and dividends on stocks, bonds, rents, mortgages, etc., accruing to the insurance companies. The aggregate amount of capital of the three Michigan stock companies is !|9.~0,000; their assets are $2,186,976, and their net surplus over all liabilities, including capital, is $734,767; their premium receipts during tlie year ending December 31, 1890, on Michigan business, were $360,453, and they incurred losses amount- ing to $175,037, showing a difference between premiums received and losses incurred of $185,416; their receipts for interest, rents and other sources amount to about $130,000 in round numbers, in addition to their premiums. In 1889 the aggregate receipts of the three Michigan stock companies for premiums were $730,184.48; their receipts for interest on mortgages, bonds, etc., were $125,699.06; total, 855,883.54. The dividend paid in the stock of these three companies in 1889 amounted to $79,000, and they paid losses amounting to $454,179. Their Michigan business in 1889 was as follows: Premiums received, $352,903; losses incurred, $176,866; gain in premium receipts in 1890 over 1889, $10,551; decrease in losses incurred in 1890, as connx-ired with 1889, $1,839. The aggre- gate capital of the other 143 stock companies doing business in this State, allowing .$200,000 each for the thirty foreign companies, is $58,960,000, and tlieir business was so well managed that they paid their stockholders dividends in 1889, amounting to $5,703,488, or an average of 9.69-100 per cent, on their capital. These companies, in their Michigan business last year (1890), collected $3,641,036 for premiums and incurred losses, amounting to $3,396,353, showing an excess of premiums received over losses incurred of $1,344,074. Sixteen of the stock fire and marine insurance companies doing business in Michigan during 1890 incurred losses in excess of their premium receipts, and seventeen other stock companies were heavy losers. Twelve of the thirty-three companies referred to were foreign companies. The average ratio of losses incurred to premi- ums received by fire and marine stock insurance companies on their Michigan business, during twenty years, ending December 31, 1889, was fifty-five per cent. The average ratio of losses incurred to premiums received by such companies on their Michigan business in 1889 was forty-three per cent., and in 1890 it was sixty-one per cent. The ratio of losses for the three Michigan stock companies in 1890 on their Michigan business was forty-eight and a lialf per cent. The ratio of losses by the stock companies of other States on their Michigan business in 1890 was fifty-nine per cent. The ratio of losses by foreign companies on their Michigan business during the same period was seventy-one per cent. The mutual fire and marine insurance companies of olher States, authorized to do business in this State, show a gain during 1890 on their premiums over losses on their Michigan business of .$3,410, and a loss on their marine business of $8,328, or a net loss on tlieir total business in Michigan of .$5,912. DETROIT FIRE AND MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY. James J. Clark, entered the North Western Insurance Com- pany, at Oswego, New York, when a boy in 1852, and arose to the position of secretary of that company. In the winter of 1865 he left them to take a position in the Harmony Fire and Marine Insur- ance Company, New York, and from there he went to the Inland Marine department of the Home Insurance Company in New York, from thence he came to Detroit in the Spring of 1808 to take the Secretaryship of the Detroit Fire and Marine Insurance Company, which then had a capital of $150,000, and a net surplus of $45,474, ^•-v JAMES J. CLABK. which was increased by its business to a net surplus of $65,446 in January 1871. In the Fall of 1871 its whole capital and surplus were wiped out by the Chicago fire and the fires in Michigan at the same time, in which the net losses of the company in three days amounted to about $300,000. The stockholders at once paid in again the whole $150,000 capital, and paid all losses as fast as adjusted, and since that time the company has had almost unin- terupted jirosperity, paj'ing a regular semi-annual dividend of five per cent, and from its earnings increasing its capital from the bare $150,000 in 1870, until in February 1891 it was made $400,000 with a net surplus of $498,410. The company has never sought to do an immense business, but has been conservative in both its Fire and Marine brandies, and has thus been able to show a healthy and strong growth with but few, if any, paralells in the history of insurance companies in this countrj\ Mr. Caleb VanHusan was elected the first president of the company, and held the office until his death in 1884, when William A. Butler was elected to succeed him. Mr. Butler filled the office until his death in May of the present year, when William xV. Morse was elected president, J. J Clark, vice-iiresideut, C. L. Andrews, secretary and A. H. 128 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. . 0TS,4«2.14 273,829.45 . ra2,TST.19 300.3.58 70 . 7:B,931 do . . . 301,736 68 . 7%,o2r.i8 a'>l,228.4a . 857..J73 81 413,993.06 . 8Br,S!M.K7 3W,490 M . 9*7,749.05 438,775 71 . 973,100 as . ... 477,787.81 McDonoU, Assistant Secretary. The following figures taken from the annual statements of the company to the State Insurance Department, evince its capable management. Date. Cash Capital. Assets. Net Surplus. January 1, 1S07, SUM.OOJ SM3.744..32 5.31, '^.67 Mix 'IW.l 00 •«3,434.72 45,474.72 IfWO 150,000 224,750 .>4 41,107.10 1870 J50.000 2til,212(U 64.040.32 1871 150,000 271,842.20 65,410.22 1872 150,000 273,503,:» 1,0.35.40 " 187.3, 1.50,000 267,818.02 40,.368.00 1874 150,000 316.«I508 58,914.02 1875 155,000 3yj,000.34 152,04121 1870 130,00) 451.9.59.50 218,23897 " 1877 *2.50,000 483,1.3.398 163,968 18 " 1878 230.C00 501,927.86 185,22190 1879 250,(100 517,329.51 20a,75« 01 1880 250,000 547,20:i.43 2«,695,83 1881, 250,0.H) 682,779 08 282,2:M.42 1882 'SOO.OOO e20.9.5-1.57 22^,519 15 138.3 SOO.OIX) . . ' " 1884 300,000 1885 300,0 188li 800,000 " 1Sk7 300,000 " 1S88 •:)30.000 '• 1889 350,00) " 18i», a50.(X)0 ♦January 1, 18(;8, Capital increased to 815(1,000 • '■ 1, 187.', " " ■• 250,000 »Feb'ry 1-5, 18SI, " •' ■• 300 IKK) ♦April 3', IKS?, ■' •■ ■• 33 1,000 Losses paid since organization 2,391,358.09 William A. Butler, who died May G, 1891, was born in Deposit, New York in 1813, ami passed the days of his boyhood on a farm. When 1-4 years old he left home to begin his business career, and at the age of 23, he arrived in Detroit wliere he resided continuou.sly up to the thne of his death. His first venture was in mercantile pursuits until 1S4T when he engaged in tlie work of his life, that of the banking business, first as a partner with the late A. H. Dey. Witlulrawing from that in a short time, he established a banking office of his own, which was succeed in 1870 by the Mechanics' Bank of which he remained president until his death, he having been longer in that pursuit than any other resident of Detroit, and was considered one of Detroit's most successful and enterprising financiers. In 18G6 the Detroit Fire and Marine Insurance Com- pany was organized and Mr. Butler became a leading stockholder and soon attained a high position in its management. He was elected president of the company after the death of its former presi- dent, Caleb Van Husan, and continued to hold that office while he lived, and to his remarkable executive ability, much of the success of that company is due. Mr. Butler was also an original stock f\ L N f WILI.l.VM A. liUTI.Klt. GEOKGE \V. CHANDLER, holder of the Mutual Life Insurance Company, whose organization he assisted in 1807, and with which he was prominently identified during his life, and upon the death of President Farrand, April 3, 1891, was elected from the vice-presidency to the office of president. Mr. Butler was not a politician although he 5vas a Republican in sentiment. He attended the First Congregational church and was influential in its prosperity; he was one of the heaviest holders of real estate in Detroit, and was characterized by strict integiity in all hisdeahngs. Asa citizen hewas highly esteemed and his departure is a loss severely felt by all who knew him. ]Mr. Butler left a widow and tliree sons, E. II., W. A., Jr., and Fred E. Butler, who were associated with him in business. He had been marrie, Eightli Infantry; Second Lieutenant April 13, 1802; First Lieutenant September 1. 18G2; Captain and Commissary of Subsistance L'nited States Volunteers, April 20, 1804; Brevet Major United States Volunteers, March 13, 1865, for meritorious service in subsistance de|)artment during the war; mustered out December 27, 1800, and honorably discharged." Returning to Hovs'ell he settled up his fatliers estate, his mother being dead. October 1, 1807, lie went to Lansin.g, where, from that time up to 1870 he acted as assistant se<'retaiy of the Michigan State Fire Insurance Company. He was, in 1871, ap|H)inted agent for DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 129 Michigan of the Hartford Fire Insurance Company, of Hartford, Connecticut, which he still retains. January 1, 1882, he established himself in Detroit. He has a suite of offices in the Merrill Block. He represents the following companies: JEtna, of Hartford, Con- necticut; Hartford Fire, of Hartford, Connecticut; California, of San Francisco, California; New York Underwriters; German, Free- port, Illinois; Liberty Fire, of New York; New Hampshire, of Manchester, New Hampshire; Oakland Home, California — fire. Travelers, of Hartford, Connecticut— accident, and general agent for Michigan of the New York Plate Glass Insurance Company. He oiierates the oldest agency in Detroit, its foundation dating from 1836. He is prominently identified with the Loj'al Legion of the United States, being the Recorder of the Michigan Coui- mandery. From May, 1881, to May, 1882, he served as Grand Commander of the Knights Templar of Michigan. Mr. Chandler is hon homie and a fitting representative of the numerous interests which he faithfully and successfully conducts. THE MICHIGAN FIRE AND MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY. The Slichigan Fire and Marine Insurance Company of Detroit, ranks among the younger of the fire insurance companies of this country, having just completed its first decade, but it is rapidly coming to the front as one of the strong ones.- It commenced busi- ness in March, 1881, and from that date the increase in assets and net surjjlus has been steady and continuous each year, with the exception of 1887. Its officers are D. Whitney, Jr., president; M. W. O'Brien, treasurer; D. M. Ferry, vice-president; Eugene Har- beck, secretary; E. J. Booth, assistant secretary. The first annual report contained the record of ten months only, and at that time the company had assets of $313,244, and a net surjilus of $1,377. The progress eacli year from that time on is shown by the following comparative table: Year. Assets. Net Surplus. Premiums. 1881 $313,-244 $ 1,377 J 82,625 168S 248,444 15,048 73,126 1883 287,608 35,142 79,224 1884 315,3.51 41,035 118,939 1885 346,228 53,796 1:37,808 1886 366,602 64,073 161,770 1887 362,547 43,209 18:3,690 1888 »715,451 13:3,880 289,615 1889 735,115 114,746 388,214 1890 822,891 160,481 480,078 * Capital stock inci-eased to $400,000. The gains for the year 1890 were in assets |87,776, in net surplus $45,635, and in premium income $91,864. The total income for 1890 was EUGENE HAEBECK ANDREW P. COULTER. $525,969, as compared with $434,495 the preceedingyear, and the total expenditure $447,068, including an 8 per cent, dividend. Since its or- ganization the company has received in ijremiums .$2,200,150, and paid out upwards of $1,000,000 for losses. The company's losses incurred last year amounted to $331,299— a ratio of a trifle over 48 per cent, of the premiums received. As the percentage of losses incurred to premium receipts of all the companies doing business in Michigan during the past ten years was 56 per cent., the Michigan was cer- tainly very successful during the year. The management of this company is both progressive and conservative, and while it mani- fests a commendable push for business, it does so with a caution which insures an excellent and profitable class of risks. This added to a careful financial policy has enabled the management to build up a strong company and at the same time make a good profit for the stockholders. Eugene Harbeck, secretary of the Michigan Fire and Marine Insurance Company, was born at Batavia, New York, in 1853, and received his education at the High School at Battle Creek, Michigan. In 1870 he went into an insurance and real estate office, remaining with one employer nine years In 1881 he became special agent for the Detroit Fire and Marine Insurance Company, succeeding E. C. Preston, who resigned to become secretary of the Michigan Fire and Marine Insurance Company, then just organized. In 1883 Mr. Harbeck became State agent for the Phoenix Insurance Company of New York, which office he resigned in November 1887, to become secretary of the Michigan Fire and Marine Company, a position rendered vacant by reason of the sudden death of Mr. Preston. Since the date of Mr. Ihirbeck's connection with the company, its affairs have been in a highly prosperous and satisfactory condition, the income having increased from $200,000 in 1887, to over $500,000 in 1890. There has been a handsome gain in assets, the surplus has largely increased and regular dividends to stockholders of the com- pany have been paid. Mr. Harbeck devotes his entire time and energies to the interests of this organization and his valuable services have contributed much towards its present prosperity. DETROIT MANU.^ACTURERS' MUTUAL FIRE INSURANCE CO. Andrew P. Coulter, Secretary of the Detroit Manufacturers' Mutual Fire Insurance Comijany, was born in Whitby, Ontario, in 1839, came to the United States in 1806, and settled in Hokah, Min- nesota, where he was employed as book-keeper for the car and ma- 19] DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMHRCE. chine shops of the Southern Minnesota railroad, and was afterwards made station and express agent at Kusliford, Minnesota. In IsflO lie was apiKjinted superintendent of the Western Division of the road. On account of asthmatic trouhle lie removed to Colorado and subse- quently settled in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where ho conducted a local fire insurance agency, then removed to Jl'.iskegon, where he continued for three years. He then disposed of his agency and was ajipointed special agent for the New York City Fire Insurance Com- pany and subsequently acted in the same capacity for the Standard of England, and two years later for the Home, of California. His field was very extensive, including all the Northwestern states. The information accjuired at this tiiiu- has piMvcd very heneficial to the Detroit JIanufacturers Mutual Fire Insurance Company. In 1^8.") he was offered special inducemenls to take charge of the office of the JIutual Fire Association of Chicago where he accpiired a thorough knowledge of the mutual fire insurance business. Believ- ing that this plan of insurance, if properly conducted is the correct theoiy, in 1887 he came to Detroit and commenced the organization of the Det roit Manufacturers' Mutual Fire Insurance Conijiany, with such men as N. G. "Williams, D. D. Thorp and George C. Wetherbee, of Detroit, J. W. French, of Three Rivers, and other influential men throughout the state as incor])oi"ators. The comjiany secured its charter June 10, 1!S.S7, and iiiiiiiecli.itely commenced business with the following officers, who still hold the same i)Osition. N. G. Williams, President; J. W. French, vice-President; D. D. Tliorii, Treasurer; A. P. Coulter, Secretary. The conijiany is authorized to write manufacturing establishments of all kinds and their products, including elevators, grain, etc., and can accept risks anywhere in the United States. The business is strictly mutual and the intention is to provide its members with insurance at actual cost. The com- pany has paid about $100,000 in lo.sses since its organization. It is conservatively and economically managed, enjoys the confidence of its members and is well regarded in insurance circles. HOMER McGRAW. Was born in New Baltimore, Michigan, January 22, 1856. His father, Richard McGraw, having for several years conducted a general store at New Baltimore, disposed of his store fi>r a farm in Levonia township, where he moved wiili Ins family. Upon this farm Homer passed his boyhood. His education was begun in a district school, near the farm. When he was fifteen years of age his father died. Soon after, with his iiiothcr and younger brother. HOMEE MCGEAW. GEORGE. W. PARTRIDGE. he went to live at Pl3-mouth, Michigan; here he attended the Union School, and during the vacations worked for D. R. Penny in a grocery and crockerj* store. In the absence of Mr. Penny he had full charge of the store. Pn 1876, at the age of twenty, Mr. McGraw came to Detroit to take charge of his uncle's (Thos. McGraw) wool lofts. At the same time he attended the night school of Brj-ant & Stratton's Business College. He remained in this jiosition three years and then went into Thos. McGraw's office. In 1880 Jlr. McGraw made a contract with the Globe Tobacco Company to sell the entire output of their Windsor branch through the Dominion of Canada. During the following three years lie traveled Ihrougli Canada, visiting all the principal cities, going as far as Halifax, Nova Scotia, and the Prince Edward Islands. In 188-4 he severed his connection with the Globe Tobacco Company and entered into a co-partnership with his brother, W. T. McGraw; the firm being known as the Detroit Tobacco Company. They engaged ia a tobacco business and had their goods manufactured under their own special bnuids. Mr. McGraw finding the close confinement of this business was undermining his health, disposed of his interest to his brother and retired from business for a time. He then became interested again with Mr. Thos. McGraw, taking charge of the McGraw building. In 1889 Mr. McGraw establishislied, in connec- tion with his other business, a fire and marine insurance agency. He i J recognized as a most prudent underwriter and fully conver- sant with every detail of firo and marine insurance. In politics Mr. McGraw is independent, but usually acts and votes with the Republican party. He is a member of the Jlichigan Club, and of the Protestant Episcoiial Churcli. In 1884 Jlr. McGraw married Miss Anna Anthony, only daughter of the late B. M. Anthony, who was prominently connected with the Michigan Stove Company. Mr. IMcGraw was obliged from early life to depend entirely upon himself. As a business man he is possessed of strict integrity and is persistent in every imdertaking. He devotes all the jwwer and energy he possesses to achieve success. PARTRIDGE & GURNEY, Fire and plate glass insurance agents. Room 1, Whitney's Opera House Block, 173 Griswold street. This firm is v.ell and f.ivorably known in this community, and is carrying on a large and growing insurance business. Among their patrons are many of the most prominent citizens of Detroit, who avipreciale the jiroiiipt, courteous, relialilc and satisfactory methods of doing business for which these DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 131 agents are noted. Mr. Partridge has been engaged in the insurance business in this city for more than six years, and is as tliorouglily posted in tlie business as perliaps any otlier agent here, and is able to compete with them successfully in securing public favor and patronage. Mr. Gurney is a native of St. Joseph County, Jlichigan, and came to Detroit in 1884. He was an agent for several fire insurance companies before coming to this city, and has been asso- ciated with Jlr. Partridge in business since 1SS9. They represent strong, reliable, successful and popular companies, among which are the Germania, Agricultural, and Buffalo German Fire Insurance Companies, and Lloyds Plate Glass Accident Insurance Company, of New York, also the German Insurance Company, of Pittsburgh, the St. Paul German and Hekla, of St. Paul. Losses are promptly adjusted and paid; and no proper effort spared to give general satis- faction. Tlie senior member of the Arm, Mr. George W. Partridge, was born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, has been a resident of Michi- gan for more than thirty years, and of tliis city since June, 1877. He has a thorough business and legal education, prepared for college at the Wesleyan Methodist Seminary, of Albion, Michigan, and graduate in the law department of Columbia College, class of 1873. During the early part of the late war he was a clerk in tlie Commissary Department in the field; for nearly eiglit years a clerk in the Quartermaster General's office, Washington, District Colum- bia; for four years clerk for the United States Senate Committee on Commerce; law clerk, Department of the Interior, and first assistant examiner United States Patent Office; private secretary for tlie late Senator Zach Chandler for eight years; special deputy collector of customs, port of Detroit, from 1877 to 1883; afterward special inspector Treasury Department, and special agent United States Census Office; bookkeeper and confidential secretary for Newberry and McMillan. He was for several years one of the directors of the Detroit Post and the Post and Tribune, also Washington correspond- ent of the Detroit Post and other Western newspapers. In 1873 he was assistant secretary of the Union Republican Congressional Committee, Washington, District Columbia, and in 1878 was appointed secretary of the Reijublican State Central Committee of Michigan, by Senator Chandler, and afterward held the same i^osi- tion imder Governor H. P. Baldwin. LIFE AND ACCIDENT INSURANCE. Our country has, perhaps, no more encouraging or distinctive feature than the comparative absence of poverty. We have, it is true, like all other countries, the poor always with us, and in large cities, enough of them too, but widespread and abject pauperism, such as is common in Europe, is happily unknown to us. Many causes, of course, contribute to produce tliis desirable condition of affairs. It is owing, in part, to the charactir of our population, to the more general distribution of wealth, and to the wide extent of our territory, which offers to every man who will work for it, a home, and a chance to surroiind hnnself with the necessities and comforts of life. All these factors are recognized as contributing to and establish- ing the self-supi)orting character of our iiojiulation, but there is one factor whose potency in this direction is too often forgotten, that of the institution known as life insurance. Before a nation can become thoroughly prosperous its members must lie trained in the habits of self-control and frugality, and a means must be found to provide for those who cannot provide for themselves, and whose inability is attributable to their weakness and not to their miscon- duct. Now, both these ends life insurance accomplishes. The man whose life is insured, knows that the annual payments must be met, and his regard for his fond ones is a sufficient incentive to cause him to meet them promptly in order to prevent lapse. It may necessitate self-denial; it may oblige him to watch his email exjienditures closely, but he gladly makes the sacrifice, and at the same time acquires haliits of prudence and economy tliat are of the greatest advantage in aiding his success in the walks of life. There are thousands of young men in tlie United States to-day who are being trained in this school and whose training is giving stability to their characters and making them better citizens and better men. Few appreciate the magnitude of the work wliicli the institu- tion has done in this direction. Many, no doubt, will be surprised to learn that the existing companies liave paid policy-liolders since tlieir organization over $1,200,000,000 and that for the past forty years they have distributed on an average over $30,000,000, and for the past ten years over foo, 000,000 per year. No account is taken in these figures of the industrial or assessment insurance companies, both of which have a large business, and annually distribute millions of dollars to beneficiaries. No one can estimate the desti- tution and suffering that has thus been prevented. No one can measure the good that has been done to the country by this distri- bution of property, the reduction of poverty, and the chances given to many young people to prepare themselves for the duties of citizensliip. In view of these facts it is gratifying to know that the advan- tages of life insurance are becoming every year more thoroughly appreciated; tliat nearl}' all of the life companies show an increased business as each year is ended, and that life insurance,|emphasizing, as it does, a better side of a man's life, unites on a common basis the princijiles of business with benevolence. Time was when a policy of .flO.OOO, payable at the death of the insured, was all tliat any company would assume, now there are several companies that will issue $50,000 on one life and a few who OSCAR R. LOOKER. will hazard $100,000 in one iiolicy. Many of the gentlemen who insure for tliese large sums combine in these insurances the ele- ments of investment and protection or benevolence. Tliey notice from time to time how disasterous it is to a large concern or busi- ness enterprise when the manager or founder is carried away suddenly, in a great many cases leaving the business in jeopardy. On this account many of the heavy insurers carry their policies in order tliat the necessary support may be given their business and thus save the concern. Life insurance business in Michigan does not vary from the business in other states; the same industry and enterprise which has characterized the citizens of older states has not been lacking in Michigan. In 1870 the various life insurance companies doing busi- ness in this state were interested in the lives of our citizens on tlieir policies of life insurance amounting to $o9,498,000.00. At the close of 1890 (twenty j'ears after,) there was in force jjolicies representing $92,437,000.00. If to these figures, which are confined to the busi- ness of the regular life companies only, there is added the policies or certificates issued on the lives of our citizens by as'jjssment and benevolent societies, tlie total auiout of life insurance at risk in this state would reach upwards of $150,000,000. ^3^ DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. In the year 1807 Tlie Jlidiigan JIutual Life, tlie first regular life insurance company in the state, was organized and incorpo- rated. Tliia companj^ is still doing business and making satisfac- tory progress. Since this date tliere have been varioiis assessment societies or companies that have had a "musliroom" existence, either going out of business altogotlier or merging their business into thrA of some other concern. One of the most ably managed assessment companies, which fur years did Inisiness as The Western Union Jhitual Life, in 1891 transferred ils business to anutlier asso- ciation from the East. Another assessment society known as the Imperial Life Insurance Society transferred its business in 1880 to what is now known as the Imperial Life Insurance Cnmpany, dating its organization from the time of the transfer in July, 1886. There are but two regular old line companies deriving their corporate existence from the State of Michigan, bat nearly all the regular companies from other States have agencies in Detroit or some other city in the State, and all apjiear to be doing a satisfactory business. MICHIGAN ilUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY. Samuel R. Mumford, vice-president; 0. R. Looker, secretaryr H. F. Frede, assistant secretary; (1. AV. Sandeis, actuary; southwest corner of Jefferson avenue and Ciriswold street. This progressive and solid organization dates from tlie year 1SG7, when it was incor- porated, with John J. Bagley as i)resident, afterward Governor of Michigan; he was succeeded by Jacob S. Farrand, who continued as president up to Ajiril, 1891. The Company was originally incor- lioraled in 1807 with a capital of $ir)0,000, of which but $15,000 was paid in, but in 1809, in Older to more fully carry out its plans for providing a perfectly secure [jrincijile of life insurance in competi- tion with the eastern companies and at the same time encourage western industries through the retention of monies in home in- vestments, the company made a deposit of .^100,000 with the treas- urer of the state of Micliigan, and tlie ciipital stock was increased to $2r)0,000, all of which was fully subscrilied and paid in. Agencies were established in Ohio, Indiana and West Virginia, and the busi- ness of the company was thus largely extended. Ever since its organization the company has steadily grown and prospered, ex- emplifying in a prominent manner the abilities of its executive officers as shown by tlieir conservative and enterprising conduct of its affairs. In the following tabulated statement of the company's business are witnessed the safe acnnnulation and constant increase JOHN H. KOBI.NSO.V. of its assets and the steady rise of its surplus and insurance in force: Date. January 1, 1SS4. ISSn, " ISSIl, ItW, 1888, 188!), ISIH, 1801, Tns. iu Force. Assets. Surplus. Sln..-,Tn.'*in.lll1 $l,2;il,878.00 jssi.iin.iio I1,;-,S.1"4.(W l,3 0,8T(i.(0 -IM.ISSIX) 1;1,I1SS.^'-JO.OO 1,537,5(13.00 2!lli,0:i-).ll0 li;,,-|5ll,4n.(ID 1,765,333.00 3I'.'),2.'5 00 18.11,-8, l.-.S.OCP , 1,996,189.(10 312,378.00 Ili,il!l'.l.3sil.iK) 2,891,231.00 ;M7.'.lia00 X'0,37.i,(W6.1K) 2,613,313.01 3il7.9U0.(X) 2;.>,823,730.00 3,007,553.13 4.39,550 95 HERMAN F. FliHOE. These figures incontestibly evidence the careful, prudent and systematic management and the progressive nature of the company which from small beginnings has culminated in one of the strong- est and most conservative institutions of ils character in existence Its business during 1800 amounted to over if!.), 000,000 of new insur- ance, and in 1891 will probably write over $0,000,000. Tlie com- pany's oilicers and directors are recognized as among Detroit's most prominent and influential citizens, and have been ever foremost in promoting and encouraging the city's interests. Mr. O. R. Looker, the secretary, has been associated with the Michigan Mutual since 1871, first as clerk, then bookkeeper, chief clerk, cashier, and since 1883 in his present capacity as the company's executive officer. Tlie company deservedly takes high rank- among life insiu'ance organizations, and is prepared to offer the best forms of policies, consistent with character of risks concerning which it maintains most scrui)ulous and critical identity. Oscar R. Looker, the secretary and executive officer of the Michigan JIutual Life Insurance C'ompan}-, was l)orn in Columbus, Ohio, Juno lU, 1840, but his bojiiood was passed on a farm near Columbus. About sixteen years later at the time when the country needed men of courage — at the very commencement of the rebellion — although legally under the age for enlistment, but physically e(iual to the task, he joined the army, and continued in tlie service until April, 1865. After the war he became connected in a clerical capacity with the Ohio State Bureau of Military Claims, subse- quently being engaged in a lawyer's office at Columbus, and in 1869 removed to Cleveland, connecting himself with the Cleveland office of the Berkshire liife Insurance Company. In 1S71 ho removed to Detroit and began his first work in the office of the Michigan Mutual Life, occupying the position of clerk, later cashier, and in 1883 succeeded Jlr, John T, Liggett as secretary, and was given general charge of the affairs of the company, under the supervision of the board of directors. In his social and business relations Mr. Looker occupies a high rank in Detroit, being a member of the DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. ^33 several military and Masonic organizations; he is liberal and cliaritable, strong in his friendships, and also very popular among the company's agents, as evidenced by tlie various valuable tokens presented to him by them on several occasions since his appoint- ment as secretary, Herman F. Frede, assistant secretary of the Michigan Mutual Life Insurance Company, was born in Detroit, October 9, 1856, receiving his education in the same city. He went into the service of the Michigan Mutual, as clerk, in October, 1871, four years after the organization of the company. From that day to the present, nearly twenty years, he has rendered faithful service in various positions, and as a sure result of continued good conduct and ability, promotion followed promotion, until the duties of his present position are next in importance to those of Mr. O. R. Looker, the company's executive officer. Jlr. PYede is genial, sociable and faith- ful in all the relations of life. John H. Robinson, general agent of the Michigan Mutual Life Insurance Company for Michigan, born in Canada, 1861, began business as clerk in an insurance office in 1876; in 1879 was appointed general agent of the Ontario JIutual Life Insurance Com- pany for the counties of Frontenac, Leeds and Grenville, Ontario; in 1880 was general agent for the Sun Life Insurance Company, at Montreal, with headquarters at the company's office, 164 St. James street, Montreal; in 1883 went to Wisconsin under contract with tlie Manhattan Life Insurance Company, of New York, as State agent for Wisconsin, with office at 108 Grand avenue, Milwaukee; remained in Wisconsin until early in 1885, and then moved to Betroit to assume a position in the employ of the Michigan Mutual Life Insurance Company as one of its special agents in that city. Under the civil service ideas, which prevailed in the business of that company, Mr. Itobinson advanced step by step during his years of service, and has at present an important position in looking after the company's agency business in Michigan. His extended life insurance experience, covering a period of twelve years, together with an ambitious desire to master the details of the business, to studiously apply all his energies snd ability in advancing the inter- ests of the Michigan Mutual Life Insurance Company, and his practical knowledge of "field work,'' in all that the words imply, renders his services of value to the company. Mr. Robinson is also duly admitted in the various State and United States Courts as an attorney and solicitor at law. c. W. MOORE. WILLIAM T. GAGE. NEW YORK LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY. C. W. Moore, Manager for Michigan of the New York Life In- surance Company, was born at Canterbur}-, New Hampshire, near the birth place of the great statesman, Daniel Webster, in 1845. His education was received in the schools of his native town, and his parents designed to have him instructed for the ministry, but his ill liealth preveiiteil the execution of the plan. His first business ex- perience was in the dry goods line. In 1803 he engaged in life insurance and has since devoted his attention to that business. He was for some years the New Hampshire manager of the Phojnix Mutual and superintendent of agencies of the same company at Albany, New York. In JIarch, 1880, he came to Detroit as manager for Slichigan of the New York Life Insurance Company. At that time the agency was in bad shape, but Mr. Moore by dint of exemplary enterprise and strict attention to details has placed it from the sixth place in point of premium income to the first among life insurance corpora- tions in the State of Michigan. He is active and zealous in his work and takes high rank among the leading life insurance repre- sentatives in the country. He is a member of the Michigan Club and a thirty-second degree Mason. WILLIAM T. GAGE. This gentleman enjoys an enviable reputation among the enter- prising representative business men of Detroit. Jlr. Gage served his country creditably in the war for the Union, and in private life is a most estimable citizen. Being of a scholastic turn of mind he became early in life a graduate of Dartmouth College, after which he taught for several years. He held the position of president in the Highland university of Kansas, and later was professor of English literature and history in the State university at Lawrence, Kansas, and was afterwards principal of the female seminary at Hartford, Connecticut, Mr. Gage came from Hartford to Detroit in 1883, as manager for Michigan of the ^tna Life Insurance Com- pany. This position he held for six years, when he resigned to accept the general agency of the Northwestern Life Insurance Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which position he holds at the present time. Mr. Gage has also taken great interest in the Michi- gan Life Insurance Association, of which he is president. His office is at 25 Whitney Opera House Block, where he exliibits every indication of a successful and prosperous business. •34 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. f DR. A. C. MILLER. PREFERRED MASONIC MUTUAL ACCIDENT ASSOCIATION. Doctor A. C. Miller was born near Hamilton, Ontario, in 1839, and his early days were spent on a farm. His father was also a native of Canada, and his grandfather on his father's side came from Hesse Darmstadt and served as a Hessian soldier. Doctor Miller HI his boyhood received a public and private school education in Ontario, remaining with his jiarents until after he was 21 years old, when he entered the service of the Great Western Railway for the period of two years, as special supply station agent and other i)Ositions, secured through his social relations and influence with Judge Miles O'Reilly of Hamilton, and W. S. Champ, who is paymaster on the Great Western Railway. Resigning his railway position he entered the study of medicine and practiced his pro- fession fourteen years, after which he ab.andonKl practice and moved with his family to Ann Arbor to gain the educational advan- tages tliere offered to his children, remaining there for six years. He then eng.aged with the -Etna Insurance Company, and after eight months service was ofliered the management of that company for the State of Michigan, which he declined, and went with the New York Life Insurance Company, remaining five years as their general special agent in Michigan. He was offered the management of that company for the State of Tennessee whicli he also declined, and moved with his family to Indianai)olis where he did a large business for the company for two years, when he was offered the manage- ment of the Provident Savings Life Association for the State of Michigan by the note0,000, and an actual capital of ^100,000. The origi- nal jiroprietors were Christie & DeGraff. The business has steadily grown in volume to its present proportions of one of the largest of its character in the country. The works occupy an area of 200 x 150 feet and are suitably equipjied with improved machinery and appliances for the production of the varied manufactures. Over lOOskilled hands are given constant employment and the value of the annual output aggregates .$150,000, embracing marine engines, hoop machinery, water heaters and ])urifiers, straightway valves S. OLIN JOHNSON. DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. ^11 and hydrants, the specialties of the products being Weber's patent gate valves, AVeber's lubricator, Weber's lawn fountain and "Ward's hoop machinery. These goods are not surpassed for durability, material and high grade of finish and adaptability to required purposes in the country, and a large trade has been secured which extends over the Western states and lakes. A superior uial;ricuUural jjursuits, and l)y the use of wliicli the soil may be made more productivo and the lial)iUty to faihire of crops materially lessened. The fact that the products of the Ameri- can Harrow Company, are sokl over the entire continent directly to farmers, brings them into immediate contact with agriculturists whereby they are enabled readily to imderstand and supply their wants in the most saisfactory manner. The company has a capital stock invested in the Inisiness of $300,000 and the annual output aggregates :f;.')00,000. Some idea of the magnitude of this industry may be gained from the fa<'t that 110 men and 200 horses are constantly employed on the road in various districts of the country supplying the demand, while a large force of mechanics and other assistants is necessary in the shops ami offices for the jiro- duction and shipment of the implements. A feature of the industry worthy of special note is the high quality of material used. The wood is carefully selected from the best grades and kept under L. II. .lOXES. cover till thoroughly seasoned, while the steel is rolled expressly for this purpose and every piece oil-tempered and put to the severest test before being iierniittcd to leave the shops. The Imild- ings are large, well ventilated, scrupulously clean, and with the outiloor space cover an area of four acres. A new brick building 50.\l.~)0 feet, which was found necessary for the accommodation of their increasing business, has just been completed. Tlie companj' have in deference to the demands of their Canadian trade, in suc- cessfid operation, a branch factory at Windsor, Ontario, where the implements are made and whence they are distributed to all parts of the Dominion. The combined experience of the company's active oflh'crs and their accurate knowledge of the wants of farm- ers, gained from many years of experienceon the road and the farm, together with the honorable, liberal and courteous treatment always accorddl their customers, hive won for the American Har- row C'om|)aiiy a large and increasing business and an enduring fame and jiopularity. William W. Collier, secretary and treasurer of the American Harrow Company, was born at Battle Creek, Michigan, November 19, 1850. His education was received at the Highland Military WILLIAM W. ((ILLIKR. Academy at Worcester, Massachusetts, from which he was graduated in 1870. He was engaged in the iron trade for ten years and upon the organization of the American Harrow Company be- came its secretary and treasurer. Orrin R. Baldwin, manager of sales of the American Harrow Company, was born at Springboro, Pennsylvania, January 14, 1848 and was educated at the State Normal School at Edinborough, Pennsylvania, subsequently taking a business course at the Stratton ORIN R. BALDWIN. DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 139 & Smith Business College at Meadville, Pennsylvania, from which he was graduated in 1867. Upon the completion of his education he engaged in the lumber business. Mr. Baldwin has had long ex- perience in farming and in the management of sales of varied industries whose products were adapted to the needs of farmers. He became manager of sales of this Company soon after its organi- zation and is peculiarly fitted for the position he occupies and in which he has acquired a notable and laudable distinction. MICHIGAN ELEVATOR AND ENGINE COMPANY. J. A. Grosvenor, secretary and general manager of the Michi- gan Elevator and Engine Company, was born in the State of New York, and came from Boston to Detroit in 1881. He liad been for several years in the machinery business in Boston, which he resumed on coming to Detroit. He reorganized the Middlebrook Elevator Jlanufacturing Company, wliich was in July 18S9 incorpo- rated as the Michigan Elevator and Engine Company, with a capital of $50,000, and officered as follows: George C. Wetherbee, presi- dent; A. G. Boynton, vice-president; Jacob Hull, treasurer; J. A. Grosvenor, secretary and general manager, and R. W. Gardner, assistant secretary and treasurer. The manu- JOHN TRIX. rated in 188G and of which lie is the president. Since the founda- tion of this industry, Mr. Trix lias given Ids exclusive time and attention to its interests, bringing it up to a liigh standard as among Detroit's leading manufacturing enterprises. He is otherwise inter- ested in several manufacturing considerations in whicli he has achieved a distinguished identity. He married an estimable Detroit lady and has three children. Hiram Morse Keeler, secretary and treasurer of the Ameri- J. A. GROSVENOR. factures consist of high speed, hydraulic, passenger, and belt and hand power freight elevators. The building occupied at 123 and 12.5 Congress street west, is commodious, well adapted to the business, and is thoroughly equipped with modern machinery and appliances. The trade territory embraces Michigan and adjoining states. Mr. Grosvenor devotes Iiis time and attention to the details of the business with which he is thoroughly acquainted. AMERICAN INJECTOR COMPANY. John Trix, president of the American Injector Company, was born at New Orleans, Louisiana, December 13, 1848, and whenquite young removed with his parents to Sandusky, Ohio, where he was educated in the public schools. At the age of thirteen he began the actual business of life as the engineer and fireman of a small port- able engine used in a saw mill. He was afterward employed in the manufacture cf tobacco in New Y'ork City and other principal cities of the United States, being for sixteen years tlie superintendent for John J. Bagley & Company, at Detroit. Subsequently he embarked in business on his own account as a manufacturer of steam injectors, thus laying the foundation of the present American Injector Com- pany, at 175 Larned street, west, which was organized and incorpo- H. M, KEELER. 140 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. can Injector Company, was born at Grass Lake, Michigan, January 13, 1853. After preliminary instruction in the common scliools, he entered the State University at Ann Arbor in 1868, grail uacing there- from in 1872. The following four years were employeil in the con- duct of the mercantile business at Jliddleville, Jlichigun, during the former two years of which time he ajJiilied himself to the study of chemistiy and in 1874 took a master's degree in the State University. Coming to Detroit in 1.S7G, he began the study of law and was admitted to practice in tlie Sujireme Court in 1878. He continued the practice of his profession until 1885, when he became associated with the American Injector Company as an accountant and business correspondent, which led to a partnership interest upon the incorpo- ration of the company in October, 188G. Mr. Keeler has since devoted his exclu- sive time and aten- tion to the affairs of the Anaerican In- jector Company, of which he is an im- portant and enter- prising factor. BUHL, SONS & CO- This firm dates from 1855, when it was established by Messrs. Christian H- Buhl and Charles Ducliarme, as Buh^ & Ducharme. The admmission to part- nership, iu 1872, of Mr. Theo. D. Buld, a son of Mr. Cliris- tian H. Buhl, brought about the cli.ange of firm name to Buhl, Du- charme & Com- pany. Mr. Du- charme died in 1873, but the firm name was retained by tlie surviving mcmljers until 1880, when the present organi- zation was effected by the admission of Messrs. Frank H. BuliI, David Ad- ams, J. M. Thurber and Charles II. Ja- cobs, under the firm name of Buhl, Sons & Company. The buildings at Nos. 103, 105, 109 and 111 West Woodbridge street are repre- sented in four stories 100x300 feet devoted to tlie large stock of hardware in all of its varied phases, in- cluding builders' and cabinet hardware, shelf goods and general hardware, mechanics' and machinists' tools, locksmiths' and butchers' implements, blacksmiths' and carriage makers' supplies, American and foreign iron and steel, bar. band, hoop, tank and sheet iron, liglitT-rails, steel nails, spikes, bolts, horse-shoes and horse shoe nails, chains, tin i-late, guns and pistols, cartridges and amuni- tion, fisliing tackle and sjiorting goods, table and pocket cutlery and house furnishing utensils, and tools for all trades. These goods are ordered in large invoices from the leading American and European manufacturers, with special reference to superior ((uality and at a large saving in cost from the m.agnitude of purchases. Tlie trade territory embraces Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and the w hole north- milll,, SONS k roMI'ANY'S WHOLESALE HAKDWARE HOUSE. western section of the continent. This firm owns and operates the Sharon Iron Works at Sharon, Pennsylvania, which give employ- ment to 1,000 liands whose products incluprenticesliip of four years in a most satisfactory manner; he then began as a regular mechanic and worked his way up until he became a partner, his admission into the company making the third brother engaged in the firm, and like tlie older brothers he is fast approaching their originality, being the inventor of several useful devices which are now indispensible in the manufacture of brass valves, also the patentee and inventor of two styles of gate valves, used very extensively. The name Galvin, Galvan or Galvani, <^ 3k JAMES GALVIN. 144 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. ^ 1^ i .^ /y ¥ ^ Im t ■■ ^ \^^ JOHN OAL-\aN. which are tlio same name, is well known in history and among uiventors, consecinently accounts in no small degree for the origi- nality wliich they inherit. The accompanying illustration is a very fair likeness of James Galvin. John Galvin, the general manager of the Galvin Valve and Hydrant Works, is the second in age of the tln-ee brotliers. He is an active, energetic and tlioroughly qualified business man and second to none in the branch of business which he has adopted. Keeping close watch upon the meclianical departments as well as familiarizing himself with the wants of the trade, his productions are always in anticipation of tlie market. He keeps well up to the times in the outside world of mechanics and in the shop he is first to advance ideas and perfect tools for turning out the best work in l)rofitable time to the concern. It is through his inventive genius and original ideas tliat the firm successfully produce the various valves and fire hydrants as well as the labor saving tools with whicli to manufacture them; also the many other devices manu- factured by other companies, giving employment to hundreds of men outside of his own works. The portrait herewith presented is a very good likeness, but imagine a man six feet, four inches tall, wearing a seven and three-fourths hat, and you have John Galvin in the works. SAFE WORKS. DETROIT SAFE COMPANY. This establishment was established in 1865, and is incorporated with a i)aid up capital of .f:i.")0,000 and an authorized cajjital of |;.j(K),(M)(). Tlicir facilities and appliances are of the latest and most imi)roved description. The factory on Fort street, east, is a large and imposing structure of brick, three stories in height, and is 350xl;)8 feet in dimensions. Employment is given to 200 skilled mechanics, and twenty-five traveling saltsmen represent the inter- ests of the company throughout the United States. The products embrace fire and burglar-proof safes, bank vaults and prison work. An export trade has been created and extends to Cuba and South America. The auiuial output aggregates in value .|500,000, and is constantly being augmenied under the stimulus of dcinand. The oflicers of the company are E. Y. Swift, president; Charles Endicott, treasurer; A. VV. Baxter, secretary; A. S. Wiley, manager The safes manufactured by this company are imexcelled for perfection of workmanship and adaptation to prescribed purposes, and are warranted in everj' particular to meet all exigencies and reijuire- ments. The company have recently completed a barglar-proof vault for tlie National Bank of Commerce, of Pittsburgli, Pennsjd- vania, vliich is in certain respects unique and peculiar, being more than double the strength of an3' vault in the world, the walls com- posing the vault lining consisting of steel bars and tempered steel plates fourn'cn and five-eighths inches in thickness, tlie weight of the outer doors and frames being over ten tons. The apparatus for opening the ponderous doors consists of a series of gears, the lower one playing into a rack built into the floor, the hand wheel, from which the motion originates, is so geared up that a child could open it. The jiatent under which this vault was constructed is owned by Mr. Wiley. The lieavy door of the vault is not jiierced by spiniUe or arljor, nor is there any hole of any kind through it. The massive bolt work which .secures the door is thrown in place both in opening and closing by an electric current operating through a double system of solenoid magnets. This is also the invention of 3Ir. WUey. The steel jamb safe, manufactured by this company, is generally con- ceded to possess the property of more successfully resisting the action of heat than any other. The door frames and jambs of these safes are made of mallealjle rolled steel, of great tensile strength, crimped and rolled into six offsets or flanges, under the exclusive patents of this company. The following advantages are claimed for them and represent their varied points of superiority: "The thinness of tlie metal connecting the outside with the inside box; the toughness of the metal forming the door frames and jambs; the y skillful operatives. Elec- trical ai)pliaiices of modern api)roval afford all desirable forms of electric treatment. The cuisine is under com- lietent sui)ervision, and the charges are e.vtreuicly moderate. Established in 1884, this institution has been a decided success. The officers are Bela Hubbard, president; C. 15. Hubbard, treasurer; James Inglis, secretary, and A. W. 81\aw, manager. CLARK'S RIVERSIDE SPRINGS. MINERAL DK'I'KdlT SAN'ITAKH'M. freight cars, car wheels and castings; works and otlices, north side of Ferry avenue, between Russell and Dequindre streets. This highly nnportant and valuable nianufactme was established by the present company, January 1, ISNO, with a capital stock of ^;!00,000. The woiks cover forty acres and possess every requisite facility and appurtenance for the conduct of the extensive manufacture. A force of 1,500 hands are given steady employment and the annual output is 'J,000cars, having a value of $-1,000,000. The trade terri- tory embraces the entire United States and the character of the products controls a large and constantly increasing demand. Detroit has found in this industry one of i ts g r eatest t rade elements and one which has essentially aided in promoting the city's supreme interests in general relations. The officers of the company are public spirited and enterprising and have infused into the manufacture that critical supervision and management which have made it one of the greatest of its kind in the country, and destined to still greater development and importance. This institution was established by Mr. A. S. Clark in July, 1889, for the purpose of utilizing the mineral water from a spring located at the corner of Fort street, west, and Clark avenue. Here he has fitted up a large bathing establishment in modern style and which is provided with all the essentials of comfort and jileasing accessories. Analysis of the waters gives them estimable curative properties, especially in the treatment of rheumatism, skin diseases, blood" poisoning, female diseases, neuralgia, dyspepsia, catarrlial and kidney troubles. A (^ai)ital of §40.000 is invested in the Inisiness which is conducted upon the most scientific principles. Tlie building contains forty- eight bath rooms, which are handsomely furnished and provided with every modern appliance and convenience including polite and attentive assistants. As a health resort this institution enjoys a distinction which invests it with the strongest claims to patronage HYGIENIC INSTITUTIONS. DETROIT SANITARIUM. There are but few institutions of the kind that have attained a more justly earned celebrity than the Detroit Sani- tarium, situated at 250 West Fort street. The location being near the business centre and yet retired from the noise, heat and dust of the city, surrounded by shaded lawns, pleasant walks and a good neighborhood; it is easily accessible by street cars, which pass the door. The grounds cover an entire sciuare, and the large and com- modious building is complete with all the modern improvements; heated with steaiu aoid equipped with all sanitary Wi J" .-; 110*1 lUVKUSlDK MINKUAl. Sl'KISGS BATH HOUSE, DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 147 ALVIN S. CLARK. by many who would be benefited Iiy the use of the waters. Alvin S. Clark was born at Two Rivers, Wisconsin, June 9, 1845, of American parentage. His father was John P. Clark, who, while the son was yet a small boy, removed to Detroit, locating upon the farm, tlie present site of Clark's Riverside Mineral Springs, at the corner of River Road and Clark avenue. Here Alvin's early years were passed, his education being received in the city public schools, the one he attended Ijeing situated upon the present location of Scotten's tobacco factory. He spent aljout twenty-two years on the lakes and fishing grounds. His first actual venture in business was in the grocery line, at the corner of River and Campau streets the firm being Clark & Hawley. He continued in this business fo» two years prior to becoming a clerk on the steamer Alaska, a position he occupied for seven years. July 11, 1889, he opened the celebrated Clark's Riverside Mineral Springs, a description of which precedes this sketch. JOSEPHUS C. CHAMBERS Was born at Cedar Grove, Franklin county, Indiana, December 10, 1842. His early education was received in the public schools during the winter months, the summer season being devoted to labor on the farm, as was the custom at that day. In 18G3 IjC began teaching tlie school in wliich he had been a pupil, continuing in that relation for four years, after whicli he accepted a position with the wholesale dry goods and notion house of Lockard, Ireland & Com- pany, in Cincinnati. About this time he began experimenting with electrical machines. He remained in the employ of Lockard, Ire- land & Company three years, and then accepted a better position with Barbour, Stedman & Company, in the same line, still continu- ing his electrical experiments. It was about this period that he married the daughter of Dr. Trainer. In 1877 he took out his first patent on an electrical device for the treatment of disease, with which he conducted a series of tests upon subjects free of charge. After making some remarkable cures, he, in 1878, ojiened an office at Cincinnati, proving himself efficient in the management of the most obstinate cases brought under his care. He continued his inventions and secured patents upon them. After some time the firm with which he had been associated closed out tlieir business to organize a company to conduct tlie sale of his patents, with a paid up capital of $100,000. In this venture Professor Chambers achieved a notable success, withdrawing in 1884 and retaining his one-fourth interest. He came to Detroit at the solicitation of Mr. W. A. Jack- son, manager of the Michigan Bell Telephone Company, in order to perfect his experments on telegraph and telephone lines and cables, to prevent the disturbing influence of induction. After putting in lines for experimental purposes he was engaged in service for eleven months at the Detroit Electrical Works. Professor Chambers and Mr. W. A. Jackson secured five patents for their inventions. Pro- fessor Chambers having become attracted to Detroit determined to remain here with his family, who had some time before rejoined him. He established the Electric and Medical Sanitarium, at 60 Washington avenue, the only institution of its character in the United States. So great has been the demand for the form of electric treatment jiresoribed by Professor Cliambers outside of this city that he has been induced to open branch houses in Grand Rapids and Jackson, Michigan; Toledo, Oliio, and at Wasliington, District Columbia. He is also ijreparing to open establishments in Pittsburgh and New York City. During the past year he has given over 30,000 treatments, doing more tlian double the sum in cash than any other institution in the city. He has recently taken in a partner, Mr. W. A. Iligbe, formerly of Reed City, Michigan, and they have leased the property now occupied at 60 Wasliington avenue, for ten years, and will remodel and improve it, rendering it one of the cosiest and best appointed sanitariums in the State of Michigan. He last year purchased a splendid residence at 693 Cass avenue. Professor Chambers values the necessity of securing the most exjierienced and proficient medical and surgical talent in the country, and his thousands of patients liave given him the strongest l)Ossil>le testimonials regarding the peculiar efficacy of his treat- ment. BUSINESS COLLEGE. DETROIT BUSINESS UNIVERSITY. Originally founded in 1850 as the Commercial Institute, corner of Woodward avenue and Lamed street, under William Cochrane; removed in 1859 to the Merrill block, under the name of the Bryant & Stratton Mercantile College, witli J. A. Goldsniilli for principal, he having succeeded Mr. Cochrane in 1857, and in 18G5 removed to the Seitz block, William F. Jewell, of Cliicago, being called to the principalshi)), and introducing practical features in the curriculum of stuiy. In 1876 the name was again changed to Gold- CllAMIiERS. 148 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. WILLIAM F. JEWELL. smith's Business University, and larger quarters were sought, at the corner of Griswt)l(l street and Lafayette avenue. In 1882 Mr. Jew- ell became sole proprietor, and in 1885 the University and the Spencerian Business College, established by Messrs. Spencer, Felton & Loomis, of Cleveland, who had purchased the Mayhew Business College were consolidated. From this combination sprang the Detroit Business University, with a corps of efficient teachers in every department. On April 1, 1S90, the University was removed to the commodious and elegant building at 11 to 19 Wilcox street, designed and constructed especially for the University. The build- ing is lOOxlGO feet, is imjiosing and graceful in architecture, unique in arrangement, and is substantially constructed of brick, with copings of red sandstone. The halls, class and recitation rooms, cloak and toilet rooms, are models of comfort and convenience. There has been over 1,100 students in attendance during the past year, and 2G,000 since it was established in 18.50. The officers are William F. Jewell, president; Piatt R. Spencer, Junior, Secretary. WiLLL\M F. Jewell, president of the Detroit Business Univer- sity, was born on a farm at Oneida Lake, New York, March 7, 1837, of sturdy New England parents. He received excellent tiaining, both from his iiarents and at school, and at the age of eighteen entered Wheaton College, Illinois, taking both the classical and scientilic courses. He taught a district school for some years and "boarded round,'" after the manner of the time. He was a pro- nounced success as a teacher from the first. In 1854 Mr. Jewell entered Bryant & Stratton's Business College at Chicago, and gained there the thorough commercial education which he has since used to such great advantage to himself and scores of young men A lumbering firm at Green Bay, Wisconsin, employed his time for a few months, but the work was not congenial, and he resigned to accept a situation as inslruc^tor in the Bryant & Stratton college of Chicago. His fame as a practical and thorough instructor soon reached Detroit, and Messrs. Goldsmith, Bryant & Stratton wrote for him in 1805, inviting liim to become associated with them. Since then he has been a faithful and appreciated trainer of the boy into the capable scholar and business man. Until April 1, 1883, Professor Jewell had exclusive control of the scholastic department and Mr. Goldsmith of the business department. On this date Mr. Jewell became sole proprietor and president of the University. July 1, 1885, the institution and the Spencerian Business College, ■which succeeded the Mayhew Business College, were consolidated. Platt R. Spexcf.r, Jr., secretary of the Detroit Business Uni- versity, was born May .3, 1835, at Geneva, Ohio, and started his school life when only three years old, at Jeffer.son, Ohio, where his parents were then living, his father being then treasurer of the (Ashtabida) ciunit3-. At the age of eight he entered the Jefferson academy where his father (author of the famed Spencerian system) taught penmanship. The son early evinced the talent inherited from his father, and at fourteen years of age was made assistant instructor in Spencer's Log Seminary, one of the most popular of the schools of that day. Platt, Jr., attended select school, taught and worked on the farm until his fifteenth year, when he went to East Ashtabula, Ohio, and taught his first cla.ss in writing, inde- pendent of his father. The class was composed not only of boys and girls but of young ladies and gentlemen much older than the boy teacher. After teaching in other places in this state, he attended Hiram College, (was a pupil of James A. Garfield, after- wards gi eat statesman and President of the United States) paying his e-xpenses by teaching iienmanship, as he did afterwards in Kingsville Academy, and West Springfield, Pennsylvania. He took a complete business course at the Bryant & Stratton College, of Cleveland. Ohio, being i)rincipal for a year in the department of penmanship. He next taught in the Iron City College, Pittsburg, Pennsjlvania, and was then associated for several years with the Bryant & Stratton College at C'hicago, ami later with Mr. B. McGann, opened the B. & S. College in Pliiladelphia. He was married to Miss Mary E. Duty, of Cleveland, about this time, making their home in Philadelphia. In 1863 Mr. Spencer acijuired a half interest in the Bryant & Stratton College, at Indianapolis, which college was highly successful under his principalship. In 1865 he founded the Spencerian Institute of Penmanship at Geneva, Ohio, which was afterwards removed to Cleveland, becoming incorporated with the Union (original Bryant & Stratton) College. In 1877 he became sole pro|irietor of the latter institution, changing its name to Spenceri in Business College which name it still holds and is the largest institution of the kind in Ohio. As secretary of the Detroit Business University and principal of the department of penmanship, Mr. Spencer has proved himself devoted to his pro- fession, and has taken a deep interest in his pupils, both from an educational and a personal standpoint. He has doubtless taught mere penmen than any other man in this country. He is earnest, conscientious and honorable, a man with a successful career and a wide reputation. PLATT R. SPENCER. DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 149 BIOGRAPHIES. DON M. DICKINSON. Don 51. Dickinson was born at Port Ontario, Oswego County, New York, January 17, 1846, of long American lineage, witli wliioh latter fact lie seems perfectly satisfied, seeking no foreign " honor." His father, Col. Asa C. Dickinson, was a native of Massachusetts, but was quite a traveler for those days, exploring the shores of lakes Erie, Huron and Michigan, in 1820, in a canoe of birch bark, and gaining a great admiration for Michigan. He removed here witli his family in 1848, to settle'in St. Clair County. The mother of Mr. Dickinson was the daughter of Rev. Jesseniah Holmes, a divine known throughout New England. So, from both sides of his family the boy Don inherited those sturdy characteristics of self- reliance, energy, earnestness and executive ability, for which he is so noted. As Don M. Dickinson was but two years of age when brought to the beautiful lake state, which he now so proudly claims as his own; all his early recollections center around the St. Clair river, and his boyish love of river sports still continues. Aunt Emily Ward, whose name is always affectionately associated with that of the Dickinsons', describes him as "not much like other boys. He was inclined to read books and acquire information from his elders. He was extremely methodical and systematic in all that he undertook, and earnest in his efforts to accomplish it." He graduated from the University before he was twenty-one and studied law. In 1867 he began the practice of law, for which he was so well fitted by natural inclination and thorough application. His career has included clients who have represented momentous interests in many states. In addition to many difficult cases of somewhat less importance, in which he was active, he conducted the following in the Supreme Court of the United States: Tlie great telephone case, when he made the leading argument for Draw- baugh; the Schott and Feibish cases, which involved a conflict between the jurisdiction of the Federal C^ourts and Michigan State Courts, state jurisdiction being sustained after seven years' contest; Paris, Allen & Company vs. Wheeler & Garfield, in which the old Michigan prohibitor}' law was involved; Pewabic mining case, involving validity of Michigan's Corporation Reorganization Act; L. M. Bates & Comjiany vs. Peoples' Savings Bank of Detroit; Hammond & Company vs. Hastings. In the Federal and State Courts he conducted the case of the Lake Superior Ship Canal Com- DON M. DICKINSON. GEORGE C HUEBNEE. pany; acted as counsel for Emily Ward in the Ward will case; was in the Campau will case and the Johnson will case. To sum up he has been engaged in all of the leading cases under the Bankruptcy Act of 1867, and in almost every important litigation for fifteen yeai's, and has been successful in all those named above, except the telephone case, in which an adverse decision was rendered by a majority of one. Mr. Dickinson stepped into the outer ring of the political arena in 1873, and his party soon perceived that he was the man for secretary of the Democratic State Central Committee. Here he rendered efficient service, and was recognized as the leader of the young Democracy of Michigan, and was chairman of the State Committee in the Tilden campaign. He was chosen to repre- sent his state as a member of the National Democratic Committee, in 1880, and his earnest activity and organizing ability secured for him the admiration of his friends and the respect of his opponents. In 1886 President Cleveland appointed liim Postmaster-general, and the citizens of Detroit, glad that their state was thus honored, tendered him an impolitical banquet. He was the fourth represen- tative from Michigan to achieve tlie honor of a portfolio— Cass, McClellan and Chandler having preceded him to the cabinet. The law again claimed him at the close of his term of governmental service, and he is as indefatigable in its pursuit, as ambitious to be known as the thorough student in his profession, as in early days. As a citizen Mr. Dickinson is affable, sympathetic, generous, and when to this is added the gift of being a capital storj'-teller, the secret of his abiding popularity is revealed. In 1869 he was married to Miss Francis L. Piatt, daughter of Dr. Piatt, of Grand Rapids, whose charming manners have added materially to the social success achieved at home and abroad by her husband. GEORGE C. HUEBNER. George C. Huebner, treasurer of Wayne County, Michigan, was born at Detroit, March 6, 1857 and received his education in the German-American Seminary and other private schools. He took a business course at O'Brien's Commercial School. He became asso- ciated in business with his father, Edward Huebner, manufacturer of sash doors and blinds, and at the age of eighteen took the road as traveling salesman, achieving in tliat relation the most meritorious success. During his second years service on the road he noticed a wire door screen, from which he conceived the idea of manufac- turing wire door screens on au extensive scale. Mr. Huebner intro- ISO tJETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. duced this special feature of manufactures and was tlip first man in the United States to sell wire door screens to a joljber. This industry has since tin-ougli the Huebner Manufacturing; Conipany attained vast proportions and constitutes tliat conii)any one of tlie largest in this Inie in tin- worlil. Jlr. Huebner was for many years tlie secretary and treasurer of tlie Huebner Manufacturin-,' Com- pany and still retains a large interest in the business. Jlr. Huebner is an ardent Democrat and has always taken an interest in ward politics. He was elected to the State Legislature of 1889 by the largest majority of tlie seven members from tlie district and served one term with the liighest approbation from his constituents. In the general election in November, 1890, he was elected treasurer of Wayne County, by nearly 5,000 majority. He is a membi'r of Pal- estine Lodge, No. ;5.-)7, F. & A. M., and of the Druids and the Mystic Circle. He is married and has one child, a son. WILLIAM MAY. William May, clerk of Wayne County, Michigan, was oorn in New York City in 185.3 and came with his parents to Detroit when he was but one year old. He was educated in the city public schools and took a commercial cotn'se at Mayhew's Business College. lie learned the jjrinting trade and worked in that relation from 18G7 to 1870, liaving been one of the first compositors on the Even- ing iVetcsand for some time was foreman of the composing depart- ment. January 1, 1876, he engaged in the retail shoe business, in which he continued uj) to 1882, when he accepted the position of deputy under John J. Enright, clerk of Wayne County, being con- tinued in tlie same capacity under his successor, William P. Lane, serving for four years under each. At tlie general election in November, 1890, he was elected clerk of Wayne county by a major- ity of 6,284, tlie largest ever given to any candidate in this county. Mr. Jlay is an experienced oflScial and brings into the position his most efficient executive abilities. He is a member of the Detroit Light Infantry, and of various clubs and societies. He has been twice married and has four promising boys. JOHN A. HEAMES. Register of Deeds for Wayne County, Michigan, was born at Detroit May 22, 1859, and was educated in the city public schools and at Hellmutli Business College, London Ontario. His first busi- ness experience was as a clerk for D. M. Ferry & Company, the noted seed merchants, afterward taking a position as office boy in JOHN A. IIEA.MKS. the employ of the Detroit Leather Company, from whirli he was advanced to book-keeper and cashier. He subseijuently became associated with his failier, Henry Heames, in the building material business, in wliioh he continued until his election in November, 1890, to tlie ofiiee of Register of Deeds for Wayne county, overcoming his competitor by 2,075 majority. Mr. Heames is largely interested in gold and silver mines in New Mexico and in his father's business as a dealer in building materials. He belongs to various clubs in the city and is a director of the Detroit Club; a member of the Detroit Athletic, Michigan Yaclit, Lake St. Clair Fishing and Shooting, the Ilarmonie and West End Clubs. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity; a Knight Templar; member of Scottish Rite and of the Mystic Slirine. Mr. Heames married Miss Harriet L., daughter of George F. Moore of tlie well known dry- goods house of Edson, Moore & Company., who died in Juh', 1888. He has since remained unmarried. ^VILLIAM MAY. HARNESS, SADDLERY, TRUNKS, ETC. JOHN NAYLON tt COMl'ANV. John Naylon, senior member of the house of John Naylon & Comiiany, manufacturers and wliolesale dealers in saddlery and saddlery hardware, liorse clothing, robes, etc., 98 and 100 Jeli'erson avenue, was born at Rutland, Vermont, December 14, 1850. At tlie age of eighteen ho began to acquire the trade of harness maker, and at the age of twenty-one removed to Binghamton, New York, where he found employment in a wholesale saddlery store in which he remained for one year. He next associated liimself with the house of Duguid, Wells & Company of Syracuse, New York, in tlie same line, representnig it as a traveling salesman in Eastern markets .mil in Canada. In 1877 he represented the Norton & Dick- inson Manufacturing Company of New York, wholesale saddlery, as manager of sales at Detroit. In 1878, tliis (inn having failed, Mr. Naylon, together with Duguid, Wells & Company, piuchased their effects, resuming tlio business , 'IS John Naylon & Comiiany. at 95 Jefferso:.! avenue. In 1881 the present location at 98 and 100 Jefferson avenue, four stories and basement each, 25x100 feet, was occupied as affording better and more commodious facilities and accommodations. The firm, as it now exists, is represented by Messrs. John Naylon, J. E. Wells, J. F. Roehrig and Tliomas Naylon. 5Ir. Naylon has prospered with the years, and has made DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 151 known far and wule. From his boyhood days Mr. Miles was an ardent lover of horses, and his extensive experience peculiarly fitted him for his present business as dealer in turf goods. His reputation is world-wide, as the inventor of the toe weights, tips, horse boots, stallion shields and driving bits, all of which inventions are of such practical value and superior quality that his business in these and in general turf goods has grown to immense proportions. His discoveries and inventions being based upon practical knowledge of the horse and its requirements, his establishment has become one of vast importance among the industries of Detroit. An important specialty is the " stick fast toe weights," and " stick fast interfering pads," Die inventions of Mr. Miles, whose business is now located at 326 Jefferson avenue. Previous to locating here Mr. Miles was engaged in business at Fenton, Michigan. The establishment is one of the largest of the kind in the United States, dealing exclusively in turf goods. The premises occupied are highly com- modious; a four story building 30x100 feet having been constructed especially for this business, having an elevator for the handling of buggies, road carts, robes, etc. The stock carried embraces every variety of horse furnishings and turf goods, and the trade extends JOHN NAYLON. large investments in Detroit real estate. He is enterprising and progressive, ami is a fitting exemplar of the large interests he so prominently controls. E. G. MILES Was born at Tpsilanti, Michigan in 1843, and moved to Detroit in 1886 where he commenced his present business. By the intro- duction of a number of jjatented specialties, wlmse ingenious char- acter attracted the attention of horsemen, his name soon became UtARTIN JIAIER. not only throughout the United States but has reached many- foreign lands, and is continually growing and prosperous. MARTIN MAIER & COMPANY, Manufacturers and jobbers of all styles of trunks, traveling bags and tourist goods. Office and factory 113, 115, 117 Twelfth street; retail salesroom 103 Woodward avenue. Mr. Martin Maier, the founder of this business, was born January 20, 1840, at Baden, near Karlsruhe, Germany. After serving three years at his trade in the old country, Mr. Maier, in 1861, came to this country and traveled to different large cities, working at his trade until 1863, when he enlisted in the United States Army, and was with General Sherman through the great Sherman's march. In 186.5 Mr. Jlaier returned to Detroit, establishing himself in business with very limited means, but industry, perseverance and integrity, combined with an accurate knowledge of the business, led him to success. In 1870 he secured the services of Mr. A. M. Duck, a man with practical knowledge and many warm friends, who, in 1885, was taken in as partner, this co-partnership existing until Mr. Duck's death, which occurred the winter of 1800, when Uv. J. Allen Rose, who had been associated with the firm four years as confidential assistant, and E. G. MILES. ^52 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE who had previously been identified with this hue of business for eleven years, was ailniitted to partnership, assuming, in 1891, the business management and direction of tlie affairs of tlie house. Mr. Rose is eminently capacitated to administer tlio business in all of its details, and has acquired a popularity wliich extends throughout the United States, anil which largely contributes to the success of the establishment. At tlieir factory the firm liave their own lumber yard and all necessary appliances, including planing machines, rip and circular saws, large dry kiln, together with all the latest im- proved machinery for the manufacture of trunks, traveling bags and travelers' goods, using a fifty horse-power engine to run the machinery. The building is 50.\200 feet, five stories high, including basement, lieated throughout by steam, owning their ow n electric plant; in all, the largest and best eipiipped truidi and bag factory in the United States. Thej- employ about 160 hands throughout the year; employ four traveling salesmen to dispose of their goods, which, owing to tlieir reputation for style, dvirability and cheapness, find a ready market in nearly all the cities and towns froni Boston to San Francisco. Their sales for the past year amounted to nearly $300,000. FURNITURE. Detroit is a prominent center for the manufacture of furniture, and is especially noted for the manufacture of chairs. One of the largest factories of tiiis kind in the city, and probably in this country devoted to that enterprise is that of Murphy, Wasey &Com- I)any, vi'hose specialties are chairs, wire mattresses and spring beds; chairs being the leading feature of this establishment. They are exclusive dealers in chairs and wire mattresses, this company having an annual output of $400,000. Their daily product averages 2000 completed chairs. The Wolverine Manufacturing Company make centre tables a leading specialty; as does also the firm of C. H. Habbercorn & Company. Aertz, Jleyers & Company are noted as manufacturers of chamber suites and office desks. Besides tlie above and others named in this book, there are a large number of general manufacturers and dealers in various lines of household furniture, rendering Detroit an important trade center for this class of merchandise. W. E. BARKER & COMPANY. William E. Bauker, senior inemlier of the firm of W. E. Barker & Company, dealers in furniture and carpets and manu- W ILTJA -M T. SIMPSON. factui'ers of upholstered goods at 188 and 100 Woodward avenue, was born in Niagara county. New York, Ajiril 34, 1848 and was edu- cated at a public school in Lockport, New York. At the age of fourteen he became clerk in a grocery store, a position which he filled for about three years, when, becoming convinced of the ad- vantages of acquiring a' trade, he devoted his attention to the upholstering business for two years. Coming to Detroit he became associated with the uj^holstery department of the business of Mr. P. Blake for one year, after which he established the business of manufacturing lounges and spring beds which he has since suc- cessfully conducted. He subsequently removed to 212 Woodward avenue and to 178 Woodward avenue, where he continued about ten years. In 1881 he took possesion of his present quarters at 1S8 and 190 Wootlward avenue which include a five story and basement building 3.5.\100 feet in dimensions and which is stocked with a full line of upholstered goods, furniture, carpets, and curtains, tlie fifth floor being devoted to upholstering. The firm as now constituted consists of Messrs. W. E. and H. B. Barker. Mr. W. E. Barker is the treasurer of the Adrain Furniture JIanufacturing Company, one of the largest institutions of its kind in Michigan, and of which he was one of the principal organizers and among its principal stock- holders and directors. He is the president of the Wolverine Manu- facturing Company, manufacturers of center tal>les and woven wire springs, corner Twelfth street and Grand Trunk Railroad, a director of the Centi'al Savings Bank, member of Detroit Lodge, No. 2, of Masons. He lives in a splerrdid residence on Adams avenue, near the Grand Circus Park. ARTIFICIAL LIMBS. W. E. BARKER. WILLIAM THOMAS SIMPSON, The sul)ject of this article, was born at Northport, Ontario, in January, ls;!9. He received his eai'ly education at Oshawa, to which jilace his parents had removed shortly after his birth. At the age of fourteen jears he comnrerrced the battle of life as a bridge builder, under the instruction of his father. At the age of twenty-one he left his native country and came to Rochester, New York, where an opportunity presented iteelf for hi.n to enter a business more in accordance with his inclinations, that of the manu- facture of artificial limbs; his natural adaptaliility for this business soon enabled him to become master of the art. During and after DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. 153 the late war an unprecedented demand sprung up for artificial limbs, and Mr. Simpson went South, when he entered the service of some of the most prominent artificial limb manufacturers of that time, wliere the Union and Confederate soldiers, alike, received the benefit of his skill and experience. In 1875 Mr. Simpson accepted the superintendency of the artificial limb factory, established in Detroit by the late James A. Foster, and it was at his suggestion that some of the improvements that have made the Foster limbs famous were adopted. In July, 1881, Mr. Foster died, and in October, following, Mr. Simpson became sole proprietor and only successor in Michigan to Mr. Foster, in the artificial leg branch of the business. At this time the Foster limbs had attained a reputa- tion second to none, and were represented in fourteen states and the Western part of Ontario. Tlie close of the present year finds them in thirty-two states, all the provinces of Canada and the Northwestern Territory. The Atlantic and Pacific oceans have been no barrier to the names of Foster and Simpson, for orders have been filled from England, Ireland, Scotland, Germany, and New Soutli Wales. We may also mention tlie fact that Mr. Simpson has a con- tract with the United States Government for supplying limbs to her length upon these various railroads and their many branches con- necting this with otlier cities; brief mention is therefore made of the leading lines in their 1 elation to Detroit. There are twelve lines of railway uniting this city with the surrounding country and thereby aiding its commerce. As far back as 1833 the Detroit and St.Joseph Railroad Company was incorporated, and the road built in 1836 and sold to the State of Micliigan, and in the year of 1846 it was purchased by tlie Michigan Central, and e.xtended to Chicago in 1853. The first telegrapli line was put up in the state in 1847, sending the first dispatch from this city to Ypsilanti, November 39 of tliat year, and the following year a line \\as completed to Buffa- lo. Detroit received its first telegraphic dispatch from New York on tlie first of March 1848. Up to the year of 1S63 there had been five railroads constructed whicli enter Detroit. The Jlichigan Southern, Michigan Central, Detroit & Port Huron, Detroit & Milwaukee, and the Detroit & Toledo. The Jlichigan Central is now a leading and important main line from Chicago to Buffalo, a distance of 530 miles; its various branches are all in excellent condition and over 13,000 cars are owned by the company. The general offices are at the Central depot at tlie foot of Third street in this city. Their MICHIGAN CENTRAL DEPOT AND THE RIVER FRONT, DETROIT maimed soldiers. A call at 113 and 114 Bates street will find Mr. Simpson at his bencli, aproned and at work with his employes, some six or eiglit in number, all experts in his particular branch. Mr. Simpson is not trammeled with the cares of public office, but is an active member of the Masonic Order, up to the thirty-second degree, a past-grand officer of the I. O. O. F., a member also of the Royal Arcanum, the A. O. U. W., and Order of Chosen Friends. In politics and religion he is liberal, his motto being charity to all, with malice towards none. RAILROADS. No city in America lias better railway connections with trade centers and the outside world than Detroit; its peculiar location forming an important link in the great chain of lakes with which this point is nearly surrounded, extending commerce and passenger traffic by the most direct route in all directions, and uniting this city with the Atlantic and the great Northwest, combiningclose con- nection with various branches and subdivisions to all points of the compass. The vast amount of important matter in this book does not admit of space sufficient to allow its publishers to dwell at depot cost about .f250.000 and is a fine and commodk>us building. The Lake Shore and Michigan Southern has a main line extending from Chicago to Buffalo, and five branches, making a total of 1,340 miles. Ticket offices and depot at foot of Brush street, and freiglit office at the foot of St.Antoine street. The Grand Trunk forming the western portion of the G. T. R. , of Canada forms a complete extention from the Atlantic coast to Chicago and the west. The passenger and general freight office and depot, foot of Brush street. The Flint & Pere Marquette, from Slonroe, Michigan, to Luding- ton & Manistee, on Lake Michigan, forms an imjiortaut line of commerce with Detroit. The headquarters of this road are at East Saginaw. Detroit office at Michigan Central depot, foot of Third street. The Detroit, Lansing and Northern, has a main line from Detroit to Howard City, a distance of 100 miles. Their general offices are in the Hammond building. Captain William A. Gavett is the local manager. The Wabash line, with general offices at St.Louis, Missouri, and passenger and freight dejmts at the foot of Twelfth street, Detroit, is of great value and imj)ortance to this city, especially in its connection with the grain trade from the Soutliwest, whose future possibilities are almost unlimited. The 154 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. Detroit, Grand Haven & Milwaukee, running from Detroit to Grand Haven, a distance of 189 miles, connects tliese points by steamers to Milwaukee. Passenger office, corner of Woodwaid and Jefferson avenue, with offices and depot at the foot of Brush street. Besides the above named roads whose trains run directly into Detroit tliere are various other branches radiating from tlie main central lines, and thus form important connections with tiiis city as acommercial point. The Detroit, Monroe & Toledo railroad has its office and depot at tlie foot of Brush .street. The road is owned and controlled l)y the Lake Shore and Micliigan Soutliern Company. Tlie Detroit Jlacinac & JIaniuette, wliose general otiices are in Marfpiette, was incorporated in 1879, and has an office at No. 1, Newberry building. Detroit & Bay (^'ity Railroad, from Detroit to Bay City, 109 miles, is owned by the M. C. R. R. Company. The Canadian Pacific Railway lias its city ticket office at No. 11, Fort street west. The passenger station is at the foot of Twelftli street. The new imion passenger depot, now in process of construction, on Fort street west, extending from Tliiiil lo Sixtli streets, promises to be a magnificent structure, and wlien completed will be an orna- ment to tliat portion of tlie city, as well as one of the most commodious depots in this ))art of the country. The ('incinn:di. Hamilton & Dayton road has its Detroit office at ITi") Jelfersoii avenue. The Lake Erie, Essex & Detroit River Railway, connecting Detroit with Kingsville, has an office at tlie foot of Canijiau avenue. The Detroit, Bay City & Alpena Railroad has offices at lOO GriswoUl street. The road extends from this city to Alger, over the M. C. R. R., and from Alger lo Aljieiia, a distance of 105 miles. All of tlie.se roads are in a most piospt-roua condition, enjoy an enviable poim- larity, and are indispensibly identified with tlie general welfare ami commercial prosperity of Ditroit. No otlier city in the union of its size offers better accommodations or facilities for transportation of passengers or traffic than do the railway lines centering here, and radiating to all parts of the United States. SHIPPING. Detroit has been noted since llic days i>l' Admiral Oliver New- berry for its great shipping facilities; iis harbor formed by tlie river bearing its name, is tlie largest and safest on the lakes, and affords the most perfect accommodation for the tourist, or for trades and commerce; it being a favorite channel for the shipping of freiglit, as well as for an immense passenger traffic. Among the many fine JOHN p. CLARK. JESSE H. FAHWliLL. vessels afloat Upon its waters may be named those of the Detroit and Cleveland Steam Navigation Company, their City of Detroit and the City of Cleveland are two as magnificent steamers as are to be found in Northern waters. Grummond's Slacinac line, "Ward's Detroit & Lake Superior line, the Lake Superior Transit Company, and numerous of lesser magnitude, including the Ferry Company, make up a compliment of sailing craft worthj' of any country. The Detroit Dry Dock Company have the largest ship building institu- tion on the lakes. In the year 1S90 their output amounted to no less than .f3,500,000. JOHN PERSON CLARK, Who died Sejjtember 3, ISSS, was one of the important pro- moters of shipping and tran.sportation in Detroit in the early days of its history. He was born near Catskill, on the Hudson, April 10, 1808, and at the age of ten years he came to Jlichigan. In the year uf IH'X he made his first venture in tlie fish business. 51r. Clark was a large vessel owner; up to the time of his death he had built and owned five passenger steamboats. He constructed the dry dock at the foot of Clark avenue, and one half of the present AVest End Park was donated by liim to the city, wliicli h.as good reason to remember liim with respect and honor. JESSE H. FARWELL. This gentleman was born at North Charlestown, Sullivan county. New Hamjishire, January 22, 1834. His great grandfather, William Farwell, being aiiiong the first settlers of that town. Isaac Farwell, a great uncle of this sketch, did valiant service at Bunker Hill. A great uncle, Wm. Farwell, was one of the first Universalist ministers of Northern New Hampshire, and Mr. Farwell spent the first sixteen yeai"S of his life at the family homestead, which has been in the family for over one hundred years. In 18.")0, ,at the solicitation of an uncle, a then prominent business man of Buffalo, New York, he went to the latter place, where he served tliice years as an apprentice, and two years with his uncle, E. Farwell. at the undertaking Inisiuess, at the end of which time he came to Detroit, late in the fall of 18.>"), on the steamer Plymouth Rock. The boat landed at Di'troit at 10 p. m., and before eight o'clock ihe next morning lie had formed acquaintances in a citj' where he was an entire stranger, and the foundation was laid before breakfast \vhereby his new acquaintances, Marcus Stevens and Samuel Zugg, were to furnish the capital of $3,000 against his undivided DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, 155 time and attention for five years, )ie taking one-third of the gain, the business being that of undertaking, which was continued for twelve years and tlien sold to Geo. W. Latimer in 1867, whereupon he embarked in the contracting business, under the firm name of Smith, Cook & Company, and later as the Ironizing & Paving Com- pany. The patent of the Nicolson pavement was controlled by the above firm, and extensive operations were carried on in this and other principal cities of Michigan. Upon the dissolution of the above mentioned company the business was carried on by him in connection with E. Robinson from 187.3 to 1885. For eight years, commencing in 1872, he was connected with the Clough & Warren Organ Company, of this city, and during his connection with it it grew from a small begining to its present great proportions, being one of the largest manufactories of its kind in the United States. During the depression of marine interests, following the panic of 1873, he commenced investing in vessel property, which has steadily increased and is to-day one of the largest vessel owners on the great lakes. His eiforts in defeating the various bridge schemes for bridging the Detroit River are well known and highly appreciated by all in sympathy with the opponents of a bridge. His efforts for improving and caring for the great water routes of the Northern and Northwestern points are second to none. A few years ago when a blockade of St. Clair canal, through the recklessness of various navigators coui)led with insufficient authority vested in the local management of that important work, he penned the following dispatch to President Cleveland: Detroit, Mich , September 6, 1888. To President Cleveland, Washington, D. C. : The lake commerce of the entire Northwest is in hourly danger of a permanent blockade at the St. Clair Flats Canal. The power intrusted to Gen. Poe is entirely inadequate to enforce the needed regulations for the safety of commerce and the protection of govern- ment works. Please issue the necessary order to Gen. Poe to use the means necessary for the protection of the canal and the safety of the commerce i^assing through the same." This dispatch was responded to immediately, and at the request of Mr. Farwell the United States Revenue Cutter was immediately ordered to the scene of danger. General Poe, acting with his usual energy in compliance with orders from the President, took charge of the canal, and with the aid of dredges and tugs that were sum- moned from above and below, the olistsuctions were speedily removed, and one of the greatest calamities to the commerce of the Northwest was averted. Mr. Farwell was active in the removal of DARIUS COLE. WALTER 0. ASHLEY. the post office site to Fort street and subsequently secured the entire block for that purpose. He was president and princijial owner of tlie Dominion Organ & Piano Company of Bowmanville, Ontario, the largest of its kind in the Dominion; also president of tlie Farwell Transportation Company, controling a large number of the largest steamers and sail vessels on tlie lakes. A democrat in politics and unitarian in religion he was for many years trustee of the First Unitarian society in Detroit, and president of the Michigan Uni- tarian association. Mr. Farwell V7as married April 2.'), 18.59, to Miss Emma J. Godfrey, only daughter of the late Jeremiah Godfrey of Detroit. Three children are the result of this marriage, two sons and one daughter, the elder son, George Farwell, being an exten- sive contractor of nearly three miles of tlie Croton aqueduct, and is at present prosecuting contracts with the United States Govern- ment for the new canal at Sault Ste Marie. The second son, Jerry G., is secretary and treasurer of the Dominion Organ & Piano company of Bowmanville. The early start which each of the sons h.avemade and the extent and boldness of their oi^erations gives promise that they will not fall behind their father's example. Mr. Farwell was at one time j^rincipal owner and first presi(Jent of the Evening Journal company of this city, and to his care and firmness that paper is largely' indebted for its existence. One prouiinent, note- worthy feature in Mr. FarwelTs life labor, and one whicli probably affords most pleasing memoi-ies to himself and m.any friends, is the fact of his donating tliat elegant structure in his native town, known as the Farwell School building whose corner stone was laid July 4, 1889. Built of ruble stone secured in the neighborhood, and finished in natural wood in tlie most perfect manner, this ijuilding stands as a lasting monument to the memory of its donor. While other men have built academies, colleges and public halls as their endowment, Mr. Farwell did more, he built for the children of his native town the foundation of their educational system in which they may grow to call him blessed, and which structure will be pointed out with pride and credit given to its liberal donor in year* to come when Mr. Farweil's name is "written down as one who loved his fellow men." CAPTAIN DARIUS COLE Was born in Wales, Erie county. New York, in 1818. his early life was spent on a farm and in mercantile jiursuits. In ISriO he became interested in the steamboat business. The first steamboat 156 DETROIT IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE. to run between B^y City and Saginaw, the James VValcott, was put on tliat route by Cajitain Cole, wlio also started tlie first line between Detroit and Saginaw with the steamer Columbia, in 1835. The Huron, the Forest Queen, and tlie Northerner, were also run over his line, the latter boat making one trip was wrecked by the Forest Queen, the vessel and cargo being a total loss, and the second engineer of the Northerner was drowned in the collision. Since 1874 {'aptain Cole has continued his lake shore line, his present boats being the iron propeller Arundel and tlie Metropolis. The steamer Darius Cole, built in 1885, is his masterpiece, and has few, if any, superiors; this boat is now on the Port Huron route.. Captain Cole is cue of the oldest vessel men along the lakes and is widely known and universally respected. ASHLEY & DUSTIN, Steam vessel owners and transportation agents, foot of First street, operate the following boats: The new and magnificent steel steamer "Frank E. Kirby," the fastest on the lakes plying between Detroit, Put-in-Bay and Sandusky; the steamer "Riverside," be- tween Detroit, Wyandotte, Crosse Isle, Amherstburg and Sugar Island; the steamer "Gazelle," between Traverse City and Macki- nac, and are agents for Crunnnond's Mackinac line of passenger and freight boats. Walter ]). ,\shlky, seriior member of the firm i>f Ashley & Dustin, was born at Clareniont, New Hampsliire, October 20, 1835, where he was educated at the public sclioaugh, to the most diminutive specioien of garden tent, nothing in that line is out of reach of the capabilities of J. C. Goss & Company to manufacture and supply, while their sails whiten the craft of many waters near and far, and their awnings shelter a mighty host of patrons throughout the land, for their present trade extends toward all points of the compass, not pent up in Detroit, but reaching most states and territories as well as some foreign shores. The senior member of this firm, Mr. J. C. Goss, served his apprentice- ship when a boy at the age of thirteen with Mark Whitwell, Gibson EDWARD GRACE. & Company, Bristol, England, with whom he remained seven years, when to better advance his knowledge he took a three years voy- age to China, and Japan to gain a practical experience in the use of sails on shipboard, coming to this country directly after, and work- ing at his trade eight years before engaging in business with a part- ner, T. W. Nobb, which partnership lasted five years, going alone for the succeeding seven years, when his business showed marked improvement. Early recognizing the fact than on account of the large steamboats which would effect the large volume of sails being manufactured at his establishment, he made a gigantic effort to secure the patronage of the circus fraternity which has succeeded beyond his expectations. His partner, Mr. Beck, and himself having for the past eight years made a special study of this impor- tant and growing branch of business. Twenty years ago Mr. Goss landed at New York and came on to Detroit, starting sail making in a small way, finally merging into that of tlie late Mr. Donaldson, who conducted the oldest factory of the kind in the state, first estab- lished in 1858. By remarkable industry and energy, Mr. Goss has now established a manufactory of gigantic proportions, and finding constant and ever growing demands for his productions. Eight factory shops or lofts are conveniently situated near the river over 18, 20, 23 and 24 Woodward avenue, where from seventy to eighty hands find steady employmentduringtlie season lasting from early spring to autunm. Associated with him in the business, is Mr. A. L. Beck, who for many years was an employe, and now an active and pushing partner in the firm. They fit out annually numerous of the largest steam and saihng vessels on the lakes and rivers, and their ornamental awnings adorn and shelter a vast number of the finest public and private buildings in tliis and other cities tbrou'rhont the land. J. C. GOSS. A. L. BECK. riDELITY STORAGE COMPANY. Edward Grace, manager of the Fidelity Storage Company, was born in Ireland, March 21, 1846. After receiving a rudimentary education in the schools of his native country, he embarked with his parents for America, arriving at Quebec in his seventh year. Here he was again put to school in the Notre Dame de Levis College for five 3-ears, completing his course in 1862. His first entry into business was in the capacity of clerk in the oflice of Duncan, Patton & Company, lumber dealers, of Quebec, subsequently becoming a 158 DETR "N I -y IN HISTORY AND COMMERCE, I'. .1. SCHWAN'KdVSKY'. member of the lirni. Willulrawiiig liis interests from Uiis firm in 1871 he went to Saginaw, Michigan, and re-engaged in the lumber trade in connection with an Euglisli firm, shijijjing lumber to the Englisli market. He continued at Saginaw until 1883, when he removed to Detroit and organized the Micliigan Lubricator Com- pany. Subseiiuently disposing of liis interest he founded the Acme Lubricator C'omiiany, and acted as its manager until IS.sO. In 188-t he establislicd tlie Fidelity Storage Company, located at 27 and 29 Woodward avenue, in a four-story and basement l>uilding. r)llxl2.5 feet in dimensions, for storage purposes, and ailequately appointed for the extensive nature of the business. This liuildiug affords 3,000 square feet for storage acconnnodation, in addition to thirty rooms for jjrivate storage. Thomas Grace, the father of Edward Grace, has an interest in tlie business, but its management is conducted exclusively by the son. Tliis venture lias proven highly successful and the patrons of the business are of the best families of Detroit. Mr. Grace has been exceptionally fortunate in his Detroit institu- tions, all of which have proven endnently succ-essfid and prosperous. He is tlie possessor of much valualilc real estate in suburlian districts and in Clieboygan county, Michigan. He owns a half interest in the Long Lake summer resort in Cheboygan county, and consider able tinilxr property. He is happily married, has three daughters, and rcsid<>s in a handsome home at G98 Cass avenue. F. J. SCHWANKOVSKY Is the son of a Lutheran minister, and was born in 18.59 in Wis- consin. His education was gained in the parish and public schoo's of Cundjerland, Maryland, and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, whither the migratory olllce of liis father caused him to be for some time located. In 1S70 his family moved to Detroit, Jlicliigan, and j'oung Frederick enteriMl the nuisic store of Hernum Bischop, on Jefferson avemie. Here tiie boy soon displayed great sagacity and fine commercial qualities, and became fully imbued with the idea that he was destined to a great career in tlie music business. He soon mastered the details of the Bischop concern, and advanced so rapidly that in 1879, three years after their becoming connected with that business, he had iiurchased it and was i)ushing it to the front with an energy that comnuinded the admiration of his neigh- bors and customers. In 1880, having just attained his majority, he had absorbed into liis establishment the music concern of the veteran dealer, Adam Couse, and finding his Jefferson avenue store too cramjicd for his growing trade he removed to tlie former quarters of Mr. Couse, No. 2;i Monroe avenue, where he remained until lie look possession of the new jialatial edifice now occupied by him, at the corner of Woodward avenue and John R street. In twelve years he has developed his business from extremely diminu- tive proportions to a course which turns over yearly a quarter of a million dollars. The new temple of music having been built expressly for Mr. Schwankovsky's business just referred to, is one of the most imposing and admirably equipjied music houses in the West. It is built of pressed brick and Ashland brown stone, and is six stories and basement, each story containing a floorage of ii,')O0 square feet. The basement contains the musical instrument depart- ment; the first floor consists of offices and salesroom for .sheet music and musical lildature; the second floor is elegantly equipped as a concert hall: on the third floor are tlie piano show-rooms; on tlie fourth pianos, like the Kiiabe, Haines Brothers, Vose & Sons, Wheelock and Vocalioa Peloubet Reed Pipe, and Carpenter organs, may be seen in profusion. The fifth and sixth floors are divided into musical studios and rooms for tuning, repairing, etc. A platform at the fifth floor, at the top of the bay window on the corner of the building, serves for outdoor concerts. The edifice is complete, substantial and handsome, and constitutes a lasting and worthy monument to Jlr. Scliwankovsky's entei'prise and brilliant success. FREDERICK .SANDERS. This gentleman is prominently identified with the epicurian pleasures of Detroit, and his jialaceof sweets is known far and wir of the Moflat Ijlock, corner of tiriswolil and Fort streets, and are always open for meetings of members and other business men. Silas S. Seefued, the actuary of the Merchants and Manufac- turers Exchange, feels, when he looks about him and realizes how many well known citizens of Detroit there are who have lived here not more than ten or twenty years, that he is entitled lo the distinc- tion of being called one of the old citizens of this old city. Fifty years ago his grandfather, Daniel Seefred, swore allegiance to the United States before the now venerable John Winder, then clerk of the United States Court, renouncing all allegiance to foreign prince or potentate, especially the Grand Duke of Baden. At or alwut that time Daniel Seefred was in business at tlie corner of Jeflferson avenue and Cass street. For nearly sixty years the father of the subject of our sketch, John C. Seefred, has been an almost continuous resident of Detroit, and is now living in quiet retirement in a cosy semi-country home, on Vinwo^'' % .V^' .<^ - ^'" N ' .'^^ ■^/^ ^ y N " \V ■■ ".V >^ •% oM. -r.,. . ,^^ .-•■N' ^A K^ "■^^ -^^ cf-.