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BIRMINGHOMM
MIC H.
ITS PAST, PPESUNT AND FUTURI.

ILLUSTRATEiD.
PUBLISfHED BY
TTHE FRED.: H. BROWN -P UBLISHING
1IDETROIT, MICHIGAN.

CO.,

1898.




ACKNOWLEDGMENT.
In compiling a work of this kind, where the co-operation
and unpaid assistance of a number of persons are absolutely necessary to produce a book such as this, it is. right and fitting that the
publisher should make some sort of acknowledgment of the kind
and unselfish aid extended by such persons. And the publisher
wishes here to express his gratitude to the entire people of this
vicinity for the uncommon kind! and courteous treatment he has
received from all. There are a few, however, to whom he feels
under the greatest obligations, and in mentioning their names feels
that he is performing only a duty. Those referred to are: Messrs.
Almeron Whitehead, George E. Daines, George H. Mitchell, Daniel
M. Johnston, John H. Snow, L. B. Peabody and Hugh Irving.
These gentlemen have, one and all, been of the greatest assistance,
and deserve especial thanks. And the publisher wishes to st.ate that,
while some slight mistakes may occur in the book, he has labored
to give all a fair and impartial representation, and,,aside from any
financial interest, endeavored to produce a work that will prove of
lasting benefit to the entire community.
THE PUBLISHER.




PAST. PRESENT AND FUTURE.

ONG BEFORE the first log cabin was built upon the present
site of Birmingham, an old French trapper named Michaud
frequently passed through the woods here on fur-trading expeditions to Detroit. In conversation with the late Mr. Edwin Baldwin one day he related the particulars of a battle
fought between two Indian tribes, of which he was a witness. The
story is as follows:
An Indian tribe, returning homeward from a trading trip to Detroit, reached the bottom lands of the River Rouge just north of Birmingham late one summer afternoon. The natural beauty of the
spot, and the advantages of a stream of water, made it a favorite
camping place for the Indians. This tribe, in fancied security,
prepared to camp here for the night. Little did they dream that
they were in close proximity to a tribe who were their most bitter
enemies. Only one person was aware of their deadly peril, and
that was Michaud. He was encamped a little further down the
stream, and his keen eye had catght sight of a number of small,
dark objects, which he knew to be Indian heads, bob up occasionally on the heights beyond. This, to him, could have but one
meaning-they were lying in wait for the tribe below, and only
waited the proper time to descend like a tornado upon their unsuspecting victims. Meanwhile the tribe in camp busied themselves
preparing their evening meal. Suddenly the air was filled with
shrill Indian war whoops. The time had come. Swiftly down the
hill came hundreds of whooping warriors. The surprised tribe had
scarcely time to grasp their weapons before their enemies were
upon them. The air was filled with savage yells, flying arrows and
swinging tomahawks. A deadly hand-to-hand combat was on.

closely pursued by their relentless foes, who picked off one after
another, until the last of the tribe lay dead upon the field of battle,
not, however, without sustaining great loss themselves. After the
battle, Michaud said, he counted fifteen hundred dead Indians, but
he doubtless drew greatly upon his imagination in this particular.
Thus it will be seen that the site of Birmingham was a battlefield
long before the advent of white men. It was over the Indian trail,
now known as the Saginaw road, that the celebrated chief Pontiac
frequently passed on his way to and fro between Detroit and his

JOHN HAMILTON:
lodge upon an island in Orchard Lake. No doubt he encamped
here and perfected his plans just previous to his unsuccessful attempt to massacre the inhabitants of the post at Detroit. The first
white man who came to Birmingham with any intention of remaining was John W. Hunter, and he was followed soon after by John
Hamilton and Elija Willits. It seems that a brother of John
Hunter came with him, but for some reason or other did not remain. John W. Hunter was a son of Elisha Hunter, of Auburn,
N. Y., and came through Canada and over the ice on the Detroit
river to Detroit in the winter of 181S8. Hunter, Hamilton and
Willits entered land in and about the site of Birmingham and proceeded to make improvements. John Hunter has the credit for
erecting the first house, a log one, in Birmingham, but by some
unaccountable mistake built it upon the Willits tract instead of his
own. The house, it is said, stood upon the spot where Mr. Alexander Parks' houses now stands. Mr. I-Iunter also built the second
house in Birmingham, a short distance to the southeast of the first
one. The third building-a tavern as well as a residence-was built
by John Hamilton, and the fourth, a tavern residence, by Mr.
Willits. Mr. Hunter also used his house as a tavern, and, strange
to relate, there were three public houses here at that time and only
one private one. It is related that John and Rufus Hunter, with
John Hamilton, walked to Graham's at Paint Creek and each
brought back a bushel of potatoes and planted them, being the first
seed planted by white men in this vicinity. Mr. Hunter procured a
cow and a yoke of oxen, which were a great boon to the settlement.

JOHN W. HUNTER.
When the first clash was over all the women and children and most
of the surprised savages lay dead upon the river bank. The few
that survived the first attack slowly retreated up the hill, dodging
from tree to tree, some of them sticking with arrows. They were




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

Previous to this a yoke of oxen was borrowed and driven from a
distance to break up land. And this is the manner in which the
hrst settlement in birmingham was made. The place became well
known to immigrants and land-seekers on account of the Hamilton
and Willits taverns. The place was then generally known as
"Vvillts'," "hamilton's" or "Hunter's," and for several years after
contained only a few settlers. Later the place became known as
"'iety Hill," but whether this was taken from the extreme piety
of the settlers, or was intended as sarcasm on a few, has never been
ascertained. All of these original settlers lived to see the place
become quite a village. Elija Willits died in Birmingham, John
W. Hunter in the Township of Commerce, and Major Hamilton in
Genesee County. Other settlers who came to Birmingham in 1819
were Amasa Bagley, Ezra Baldwin, William Morris, Dr. Ziba Swan
and Sidney Dole. In 1820 came Colonel David Stannard, Asa B.
Hadsell, Major Joseph Todd, Elijah Fish, Daniel Ball and Asa
Castle. Captain Laban Jenks came to Birmingham in the fall of
1821. Oliver Torry came in with the Jenks family, having started
to walk through Canada to Michigan, when he fell in with the
family. In 1822 came George Taylor, a carpenter, Orrin Jenks,
Apolios Dewey, Smith Jenks, Ezra Rood, Leman Case, Joseph
Park and Dr. Ezra Parke. Scriba Blakeslee came in 1623, and
Jacob Baker came in the same year. The first settlers in Birmingham were obliged to come here by way of Mt. Clemens and the
Clinton river. A little later the old Ball road was cut through to
Detroit, but it scarcely deserved the name of road, as it was nothing
nore than a crooked path through the forest. The first industrial
enterprise undertaken at Birmingham was a tannery erected by
Elija Willits. About the year 1828 John W. Hunter, who was a
blacksmith by trade, built a foundry, worked by horse-power, a
little back from the main road. Later this was purchased by R. T.
Merrill and George Allen, who continued it for several years. The
writer is assured upon good authority that Mr. Merrill named the
town of Birmingham after the city of that name in England. Mr.
Allen retired from the foundry and Isaac Smith took his place.
Later a banker of Detroit became interested in the foundry. The
plant was increased quite extensively and they manufactured mill
work, agricultural implements, stove castings, etc. They erected a
shop to build thrashing machines and it is said that in one year
three hundred machines were made. The first merchandise business was started by Messrs. Dennis and Sullivan Kelsey, the second
by a Mr. Clock and the third by Orrin Poppleton. About this
time the postoffice was removed to the village and Sullivan Kelsey
was the first postmaster. He was succeeded by T. A. Flower, who
was succeeded by H. W. Botsford, Orrin Poppleton, Geo. L. Lee
and J. A. Bigelow, who were the early postmasters. The population
and manufacturing interests increased quite rapidly from the year
1835, and in 1839 the famous Pontiac & Detroit Railroad was completed to Birmingham. The road had been built to Royal Oak for
some time previous, but the cars were propelled by horse-power.
When the road was completed to Birmingham a locomotive was
put on and the road assumed all the dignity of a "sure enough"
steam railroad. There were no coaches on the road those days and
passengers were obliged to ride standing up in box cars. The roadbed was in horrible condition and when in motion the cars swayed
frightfully, making it almost impossible for passengers to keep
their feet. The old strap rails were not very securely fastened and
occasionally an end of one would shoot tip through the bottom of
a car. Many amusing tales are told of "Salt" Williams' experiences
while he operated the road. In court one day Mr. Williams was
being sued by a farmer for the loss of a horse which was killed by
a train. His defense was that it was pure negligence on the part of
the horse, for, he said, "if the horse had not stopped to look back,
the train would never have overtaken and killed him." It seems
that Mr. Williams worked in every sort of capacity on the road.
One night he was at the lever of the locomotive coming out from
Detroit. The station building at Birmingham was built over the
tracks, with large swing doors at either end to admit the trains,
and these were closed at night. Someone forgot to open them on
this particular night and Mr. Williams, either forgetting them or
thinking the locomotive (which he had began to look upon as
partly human) would have sense enough to stop to be admitted, ran
clear through the doors at both ends, slnashing them to smithereens. It is said that Mr. Williams would frequently assist the
engineer at Pontiac to get the train started, and then go out into the
barn, hitch up his best horse and beat the train into Detroit. The
road finally passed out of Mr. Williams' hands and was owned by
one corporation after another, until to-day nothing of it is left but
the right-of-way, over which the present fine trains of the Detroit,

Grand Haven & Milwaukee Railroad now pass. The town of Birmingham has had a steady, healthy growth during the past twentyfive years, until at the present time it may properly be said to be
one of the prettiest, healthiest and busiest towns of its size in the
State of Michigan. Birmingham has to-day broad, shady and well
kept streets, many very fine residences and business blocks, and a
general air of neatness and progressiveness that are a credit to its
people. Among the public institutions may be mentioned
THE WATER WORKS,
located in a neat and substantial brick building in the western part
of the town. A direct pressure of sixty poundcs to the square inca
is obtained from two hughes duplex steam oumps, the capacity of
which are seven hundrec and afty thousand gallons daily. The
source of supply are flowing wells, which feed a reservoir nolding
three thousand barrels of water. In cases of emergency the waters
of the River Rouge can be used. There are live miles of mains,
four to ten inches (mostly sixes and eights), and fifty double
hydrants.
THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
was organized in May, 1894. The officers are: A. Whitehead,
President and Captain; Harvey C. Wilson, Secretary, and L. B.
Peabody, Treasurer. I'he equipment consists of two hose carts,
one thousand feet 2 2-inch hose, fire alarm and electric station, and
building with 6o-foot tower. The department has in the past had
a number of serious fires to contend with, but has in each instance
shown the ability to handle them.
THE LADIES' LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
was organized in 1867. In 1893 they erected the present fine brick
building, which contains a hall with stage and seating capacity of
four hundred, and a library of about one thousand nine, hundred
volumes. The membership fee is $I.oo per year, and this enterprise
is, beyond doubt, one of the most beneficious in the town.
'THE HIGH SCHOOL,
a large brick structure, was erected in 1861. The school roll at
present contains the names of four hundred and twenty-one
scholars. There are two special courses of study-four years of
Latin and two years of German completing the courses. Over
eight hundred dollars has been paid into the school fund for outside
tuition, scholars from this school being admitted to the State University by diploma, without examination. Edmund F. Waldo, the
present superintendent, was born in Wisconsin, graduated at the
University of Michigan and has been here a number of years. His
success with this school is a matter of pride to the whole townspeople.
THE LADIES' CEMETERY ASSOCIATION
was incorporated in 1885. The cemetery is located just north of
the town in a pretty locality, and has been greatly improved and
beautified during the last few years.
THE TOWN    IMPROVEMENT SOCIETY
has done a great deal to improve the appearance of the streets of
Birmingham. They have recently placed wire receptacles for waste
paper, etc., at the street corners, which is a move in the right
direction. The members of this society labor without compensation or hope of reward other than to see the town present an
attractive appearance. They should be encouraged and assisted by
all good citizens.
THE RAILROADS
are the Detroit, Grand Haven & Milwaukee and the Detroit & Pontiac Electric car line, the latter running large, elegant cars to
Detroit, Pontiac and return, every thirty minutes.
THE BIRMINGHAM ECCENTRIC
is the only newspaper published in the town, and so well has it
performed its duty as a live, thoroughly up-to-date home paper that
the need of another has never been felt. It is a large eight-page
sheet and is issued on Fridays. Messrs. Whitehead and Mitchell
are the publishers, Mr. Mitchell managing and editing the publication.
THE EXCHANGE BANK
was established a number of years ago by Messrs. Whitehead and
Mitchell, and supplies all wants in this direction. The bank is a
solid institution, managed by gentlemen in whom the people of this
section know that they can place their utmost trust. The bank has
a number of safety deposit boxes that can be rented for the low
price of $I.oo per year. There are many who should avail themselves of this security.
THE POST-OFFICE.
is located in the Masonic block and is a model of convenience.

There are a number of combination lock boxes and drawers, and
everything is handled in first-class manner. Mr. George H.
Mitchell is the postmaster.




Saginaw-Street--Looking North.

Saginaw Street-Looking South




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

THE POWER HOUSE.
The Detroit and Pontiac Electric Car power house is a mammoth brick building, seventy by one hundred and thirty feet. The
machinery in the building are three boilers with a combined capacity
of four hundred horse-power, two Westinghouse engines of three
hundred horse-power each, and three large dynamos with a combined power of six hundred and seventy horse-power.
THE SECRET SOCIETIES
consist of Birmingham Lodge No. 44, F. and A. M., the K. of P.,
the Foresters and the Maccabees. All of these societies are in a
flourishing condition and hold regular meetings.
TELEPHONES AND TELEGRAPHS.
The Western Union, Postal Telegraph, Michigan and New
State Telephones, also the National Express Co. have offices here.
METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
THE FIRST ACCOUNT of Methodist worship in Birmingham is that of a sermon preached by a traveling itinerant in the
Willits log tavern in 1821. The first records of the church preserved date back to 1838. The charge was then a circuit and included Southfield, Red School House, Royal Oak, Pontiac, Auburn
(now Amy), XVaterfcrd and other places. Josiah Brakeman was
pastor of the circuit. The first records of the present society date
back to 1854, Salmon Steele, pastor. From 1854 to 1898 there have
been twenty-six pastors. The present fine brick church was built
in 1875, and the church has now a total of two hundred and ten
members, an increase of thirty-five during the past two years. Rev.
Eugene Allen, the present pastor, was born in Addison, Lenelle
Co., Mich., and received his primary education at Detroit and Pontiac. He graduated at Albion College in 1895 and his first church
was at Watrousville, Tuscola Co. He came to Birmingham in the
fall of 1896 and has the respect and esteem of the people of Birmingham.
THE BAPTIST CHURCH.
The history of the Baptist church extends back to 1833. The
church was first organized as the "Regular Baptist church of
Bloomfield." The members were few in numbers and poor in
worldly goods. Having no regular place of worship, the meetings
were held at the houses of members. The organization was continued with difficulty until 1840, when it was dissolved. The Rev.
J. M. Martin was the last and probably the only pastor. For a
period of thirty years after this there was no Baptist organization
in Birmingham. The present organization was effected in 1870 and
the church built in 1873. Prior to this two lots were purchased on
Saginaw street.nd arrangements were made to build there, but the
project was not carried out, and meetings were then held in the old
Academy building, and later in the Methodist meeting house. Rev.
F. L. Church, the present pastor, was born in Holly, attended the
University of Michigan and has been a resident of Birmingham
about one year. He is an able preacher and a man of high
principles.
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
The organization of the present Presbyterian Church Society
was effected in 1834, and the church was built about the year 1850.
The membership at this time is about eighty members. The church
and Sunday school is in a flourishing condition. Notable among
the members of this church in the past were Tilman C. Trowbridge
and James Quick. both of whom were educated at the University of
Michigan and became foreign missionaries, the former going to
Turkey and the latter to India. Rev. Augustus Marsh, the present
pastor. was born in Aurora, Erie Co., N. Y., is a graduate of Michigan University and of the Aul.rn Theological Seminary, New
York. He came to Birmingham ii, 1889. Mr. Marsh has the lovt
and esteem of all who know him.
UNITED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
This Church Society was organized in 1896-but two years ago
-but during this short time they have accomplished a great deal.
A year ago they erected a very handsome little church, and have
now about sixty members. Although the church is temporarily
without a pastor, meetings are held regularly every Sabbath day.
ST. JAMES PROTESTANT EPISCOP LL CHURCH.
The St. James church was erected in 1895. and the first services
held in it on November 24th of that year. It is by all odds thc
prettiest church in Birmingham. The church has a good membership, but no resident pastor. The Rev. Sidney H. Woodford, of
Detroit, conducts the services, which are held regularly.
THE NEAREST CATHO~LIC CHURCH
is at Royal Oak, about four miles southeast of Birmingham. The
Capuchin Fathers are in charge,

THE ADVENTIST CHURCH.
This church was established here in 1878. Regular meetings
are held, and there being no resident pastor, services are conducted
by one of the elders of the church. The membership is about
twenty.
Of the future of Birmingham there can be no doubt. Situated
as it is eighteen and one-half miles northwest of Detroit, and
seven miles southeast of Pontiac, in the County of, Oakland, upon
a high tableland and surrounded by a rich farning district, the
town is bound to grow rapidly during the next few years. The
population is now over one thousand souls, and this place is said
to be one of the healthiest spots in the whole state. The townspeople of Birmingham are an educated and highly cultivated people.
Moreover, they are a home-loving people, as the extraordinary
number of pretty houses in the place will testify. We can, with the
greatest sincerity, recommend the town of Birmingham to anyone
in search of a home with the pleasant<-t surroundings.
OLD RESIDENTS OF BIRMINGHAM.
HUGH IRVING was born in the north of Ireland in 1815 and
went to England in 1819. Came to Birmingham in 1849 and engaged in the hardware trade, which he continued for forty-two years.
He retired in I802, and Mr. and Mrs. Irving are now enjoying the
quiet reward of lives well spent.
ALANSON PARTRIDGE was born in the Township of Cato.
New York State, in 1827. Came to Birmingham when but six years
of age. He followed the occupation of wagon and carriage builder
from 1846 to 1870 and then retired.
MRS. ELIJA WILLITS is the oldest living resident of Birmingham to-day, and has reached the advanced age of eighty-eight
years. She was married to Mr. Willits in Birmingham in 1829.
and has resided here continuously ever since. She was Mr. Willits'
second wife and had seven children, only one of whom is now
living-Mrs. Hubbard Lee, who resides with her mother at the old
homestead.
JAMES GRINLEY was born in Scotland in 1814 and when
he was ten years of age his father came to America and settled in
New Jersey. Mr. Grinley came to Birmingham      when he was
fifteen years of age. He was a painter by trade and kept hotel here
for about two years. He atid his wife are now living quiet, retired
lives at their home in Birmingham
EDWIN BALDWIN was born in Vergennes, Vt., in 1802. He
reached Detroit in 1817 and started the first ferry, a rowboat, there.
He came to Birmingham in the year 1819 and engaged in farming,
and lived here until his death in 1888. Mrs. Baldwin is still living
at the advanced age of eighty-three years, at the old homestead on
Maple avenue west.
TOHN BODINE was born in New Jersey in 1815. He came
to Birmingham in 1855 and engaged in the clothing and tailoring
business. He was a justice of the peace here for seventeen years.
He and his wife are living in quiet retirement at their home on
Maple avenue west.
HUBBARD S. LEE was born at Gulford. Ct.. in 1822, and
cane to Birmingham in 1843. He was engaged in the mercantile
business and retired in 1868. He has lived in the olace almost
continmucmnsly since 1843. Mr. Lee married the daughter of Mrs.
Eliia Willits. and Mr. and Mrs. Lee are now living at the old
Willits homestead on Saginaw street, enjoying well-earned rest.
OPRIN POPPLETON was born in Richmond, Ontario Co.,
N. Y.. in 1817. He camne to Michigan in 1825 and settled in Birrcinyhnm in I840. He engaged in the general merchandise business,
w,,ihich he continued Un to the time of his death in 1892. Mrs. Poppleton, who is still living at the advanced age of eighty-three years,
Came to Birmingham at the same time that her husband did,
pt1hogh, they were not married at that time, but were married in
Birmingham.
In addition to the above, the names of Gaylord Simpson, Lewis
S;iinson. Patrick Wilson. Herbert Hall, Palmer Sherman, Mrs.

Mary Bloomberg, William Satterlee. Mr. and Mrs. Asher Parker,
olin B. Adams and Edward Miller may properly be added to the
Jist of old residents of this vicinity.




,;!...   -.   ~:,
41            1 -Maple Avenue-Looking E ast.

rcl~~ iv.... 
i!;         i         cI     i  ii 
Maple Avenue--Looking West.




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

OPPICERS Or THE TOWN Or BIRMINGHAM.
The TOWN OF BIRMINGHAM was re-incorporated April 16.
1885, and the following is a list of the officers from that time down
to the present:
March, 1884, to March, 1885-President, Ira Slade; Clerk, Geo.
E. Daines; Treasurer, Frank Blakeslee; Trustees, Frank Hagerman. Julien Leet, Joseph Phillips, Moses K. Taber, Thos. Hanks,
Benj. Thorne; Assessor, James Van Every; Street Commissioner,
John Donaldson; Marshal, Samuel C. Mills.
March, 1885, to March, 1886-President, Ira Slade; Clerk, Geo.
E. Daines; Treasurer, Frank Blakeslee; Trustees, two years, Benj.
A. Thorne, Thos. Hanks, Joseph Phillips; Trustee to fill vacancy
for one year. Isaac Mabee; Assessor, Almeron Whitehead, Jr.;
Street Commissioner, James Van Every: Marshal, Samuel C. Mills.
March, 1886, to March, 1887-President, Ira Slade; Clerk, Geo.
H. Mitchell, Treasurer. Frank Blakeslee: Trustees for two years,
Frank Hagerman. Moses K. Taber, Frank Ford; Assessor, Luther
Stanley: Street Commissioner, Geo. Blakeslee; Marshal, Samuel
C. Mills.
March. 1887, to March, I888-President, Luther Stanley: Clerk,
Geo. H. Mitchell: Treasurer, Frank Blakeslee; Trustees for two
years, Lyman B. Peabody. John Bodine, John L. Campbell; Assessor, Alanson Partridge; Street Commissioner. Williani Robinson;
Marshal, James O. Beattie.
March. 1888, to March, 1889-President, Luther Stanley: Clerk,
Geo. H. Mitchell; Treasurer, Geo. E. Daines; Trustees for two
years, Frank Hagerman, Moses K. Taber. Frank Ford: Assessor.
Alanson Partridge; Street Commissioner, William Robinson; Marshal, Tames O. Beattie.
March. 1889. to March, 18Oo-President. Ira Slade; Clerk. Edward R. Smith; Treasurer, Volney Nixon; Trustees for two years.
(to fill vacancy. John L. Campbell), Geo. E. Daines. Lyman B.
Peabody, John Bodine: Assessor, Alanson Partridge: Street Commissioner. William C. Reynolds: Marshal. James O. Beattie.
March. 189o, to March, i8I--President. Ira Slade: Clerk.
Eugene Brooks: Treasurer. Almeron Whitehead; Trustees for two
vears, Geo. Blakeslee. Frank Ford. Frank Hauerman: Assessor.
Tohn Allen Bigelow: Street Commissioner, William C. Reynolds;
M.nrshal, James O. Beattie.

March, 1891, to March, 1892-President, Lyman B. Peabody;
Clerk, Geo. H. Mitchell; Treasurer, Almeron Whitehead; Trustees
for two years, Thos. Langley, John Hanna, Geo. E. Daines; Assessor, J. Allen Bigelow; Street Commissioner, H. J. Reynolds; Marshal, Samuel C. Mills.
March, 1892, to March, 1893-President. John Bodine; Clerk,
Albert W. Campbell; Treasurer, Volney Nixon; Trustee for one
year, H. F. Daniels; Trustees for two years, Freeman F. Richardson, Thos. A. Ward, Geo. Shain; Assessor. Luther Stanley; Street
Commissioner, Nathan C. Fall: Marshal, Geo. W. Fay.
March, 1893, to March, 1804-President. Lyman B. Peabody;
Clerk, Albert W. Campbell; Treasurer. Volney Nixon: Trustees
for two years, Almeron Whitehead, Geo. E. Daines. Hiram       F.
Daniels: Assessor. John Hanna; Street Commissioner, William N.
Fall: Marshal, Geo. W. Fay.
March, 1804, to Mdirch, 1895-President. Lvman B. Peabody;
Clerk. Frank W. Blair; Treasurer. Austin R. Parks: Trustees for
two years, Daniel M. Johnston. John Hanna, Elliott G. Stevenson:
Assessor, Major G. Jones; Street Commissioner, William N. Fall;
Marshal. Geo. W. Fay.
March. I80o, to March, 896--President. Almeron Whitehead;
Clerk. Frank W. Blair; Treasurer, Austin R. Parks: Trustees. Geo.
E. Daines. William C. Jenks, Hiram F. Daniels: Assessor. Maior
G. Tones: Street Commissioner, Nathan C. Fall; Marshal, Geo.
W. Fay.
March, 1806. to March. 1897-President. Almeron Whitehead:
Clerk. Edward R. Smith: Treasurer, Daniel M. Johnston; Trustees
for two years, Frank Hagerman. Edward A. O'Neil. Fugene
Brooks: Assessor. Julius F. Rundel; Street Commissioner, Nathan
Fall: Marshal. Geo. H. Toms.
March, 1807. to March, 1898-President. Almeron Whitehead;
Clerk. Albert W. Campbell: Treasurer, Daniel M. Johnston; Trustees for two years. Geo. E. Daines. Alfred Johnston. Hiram F.
Daniels: Assessor, Tulius F. Rundel: Street Commissioner, William
N. Fall; Marshal, Charles E. Mudge.
March. 18o8, to March. 189g--President. Frank Haverman:
Clerk. Albert W. Campbell: Tre-,irer. Charles E. Midge; Trustees
f-r two years. Edward A    O'Neil. Harvey C. Wilson, EuQene
Rroolk: Assessor. Tulius F. Rundel; Street Commissioner, Wm.
N. Fall; Marshal, Charles E. Mudge.




Tme5 ýp i-cCOPc!(hUr'ck

LADIES' LIBRARY HALL.




PROMINENT BUSINESS MEN Or BIRMINGlAM.

E. R. SMITH & COMPANY,
Grain, Lumber, Coal, Feed, Lime, Cement and Everything in
the Builder's Line.
North of Maple Avenue, near D., G. H. & M. Depot.
EDWARD R. AND THERON B. SMITH compose the firm
of E. R. Smith & Company. The Messrs. Smith are progressive
and reliable business men. They believe that fair, courteous treatment of customers will win trade, and the large, growing patronage
they now enjoy proves that they are right in their belief. They
buy and sell grain, handle lumber, coal, feed, lime, cement and
everything in the builders' line. Their business occupies a building 4ox0Io feet, two stories in height. They have recently added a
new power grain elevator to their building, which enables them to
handle grain very quickly. The business was originally established by Mr. Ira Slade in i88 and was purchased by the present
proprietors in 1893. Edward, the senior member of the firm, was
born in Portland, Pa., and when about one year old came with his
parents to Birmingham, where he received his education. Previous to purchasing the business he was bookkeeper for Mr. Slade
for about eight years. Theron, the junior member of the firm, was
born in Oxford, N. J., remaining there eighteen years, where he
attended school, and Ihen came to Birmingham and joined his
cousin in the present business. Both are young, ei-ergetic men,
with business push and enterprise. and fully deserve the wonderful
success they have attained.
McCLELLAN & SATTERLEE,
Flour, Feed, Bran and Millings.
Maple Avenue East.
THE   RELIABLE
firni whose name appears at the head of
this sketch  is   ell
known throughout the
township for their energy and enterprise.
They manufacture and
deal in the best quality
oi flour                   and   feed.
They occupy a fine
W. E. McCLELLAN  brick  store  on  the     G. H. SATTERLEE.
corner of Saginaw street and Maple axvenue. The business was
established about two years ago by Messrs. McClellan and Satterlee,
and under their careful and business-like management it has been
placed on a sound basis. The firm own and operate a fifty-barrel
flour mill, situated just outside of the town limits. They manufacture only one grade of flour-the best. and their brand is called the
"Moss Rose." Mr. W. A. Burtraw., head miller for the firm, has
had years of experience and is an expert in his line. The sale of
the firm's products is not limited to Birmingham, but a considerable
portion is shipped to outside towns. The business has prospered
anud the output has increased yearly. Mr. McClellan, the senior
member of the firm. was born in Williainsberg Ont., and his
family remoxed to New York State when he was four years old.
There he received his education and later started in business. Disposing of his business there, he caine to Birmingham and engaged
in his present enterprise. Mr. Satterlee is a native of Birmingham
and has lived in this town all of his life time. Both gentlemen are
numbered among Birmi nghamr's. rljable and trustworthy business
mni),

JOHN HANNA,
Fresh ant Salt Meats, Fish and Oysters in Season, Flour, Potatoes,
Vegetables, Butter and Eggs.
Corner Pierce Street and Maple Avenue.
SICCESS in any business can be attained only by close application and hard
work, and these are just the factors that have
placed Mr. John Hanna in the front rank
with Birmingham's leading business men.
Mr. Hanna was born in Ireland, but landed
at Castle Garden when he was but four weeks
old. His parents came to Michigan many
years ago, and filnally settled at Birmingham.
Like a number of the leading men of Birmingham of to-day, Mr. Hanna received his
JOHN HANNA.    first business training with Mr. J. Allen
Bigelow, with whom he remained about two years. He gained
additional experience with Messrs. Wm. Perkins, Jr., & Son, of
Detroit, whoml he clerked with for about one year. He next returned to Birminghaam and engaged in business under the firm
name of Parks & Hanna, where he continued for seven years. At
this period Mr. Hanna severed his connection with the firm of
Parks & Hanna, and remained out of business for about one year.
He then formed a partnership with Mr. David Knox Hanna in the
meat business. The latter retired frorm the business about one year
afterwards and Mr. Hanna has since continued the business alone.
He occupies a brick structure, thirty by seventy feet, and carries a
full line of fresh and salt meats, fish and oysters in season, flour,
potatoes, vegetables, and butter and eggs. Mr. Hanna has served
two years on the Township Board as Treasurer, two years on the
Township Board of Review. two years on the School Board, and
hlas been a Town Trustee for four years. He has been hustling
ever since he was old enough to, and is reliable in every respect.
He is a genial, jolly good fellow, and numbers his friends by the
score.
GEO. E. DUFF,
Fresh and Salt Meats.
Cor. Saginaw and Middle Sts.
MR. GEORGE DUFF was born in Port Huron, but left that
city when but a small boy, and engaged with his father in buying
cattle and conducting a meat market in Detroit. The business
was continued for twenty-four years. Mr. Duff but recently came
to Birmingham, and opened his present business but a month ago.
He carries a nice line of fresh and salt meats. He is a skillful meat
cutter and a young rian of sterling worth, and we comnmend him
to the people of Bfrmingham.
GEORGE H. TOMS.,
Shaving Parlors.
East Maple Avenue.
MR. GEORGE HI-. TOMS needs no introduction from us to
the male population of this town. He is known as a barber whose
razors never "pull," and whose hand is as steady as the movement
of a clock. His shop is neat and tidy, and he is always on hand
to attend to the wants of his patrons. Mr. Tomis was born in the
town of Troy, and came to Birmingham forty-six years ago. He
is a general favorite with all who know him.

I-,




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Ljr h~)..5

Methodist Episcopal Church.

United-PresbyterianlChurch.




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

A. BLAKESLEE,
Hardware, Tinware, Stoves and Farming Implements.
THERE IS NO MORE important representative business in
Birmingham than the one now under consideration. Mr. Blakeslee
is a gentleman gifted with an unusual spirit of indomitable enterprise, as is evidenced by his wonderful prosperity and success. His
business has been established now over tourteen years, and his
stock is being constantly enlarged to meet the growing demands
of his trade. His store occupies a two-story brick building, twentyfive by sixty feet, and he handles a full line of hardware, tinware,
stoves and farming implements. Mr. Blakeslee also has a first-class
tinning and plumbing shop in connection with his store. Outside
of his reg-lar business he has erected a great many furnaces and
wind mills in the surrounding country. IMr. Blakeslee personally
superintends all of his work, and his long experience in the business enables him to determine when the work is properly done.
Mr. Blakeslee was born in Birmningham and received his education
here. He received his schooling in the hardware line with Messrs.
H. Irwin and Son, with whom he clerked for five years, previous to
starting in business for himself. Mr. Blakeslee has, by his own
efforts, built up a large and successful business, and he is thoroughly reliable in every respect.
L. B. PEABODY,
Groceries, Boots and Shoes, Dry Goods, Clothing, Hats, Caps
and Jewelry.
Corner Saginaw Street and Maple Avenue.
NO   HISTORY of Birmingham's business men would be complete without a
sketch of the extensive business of Mr. L.
B. Peabody. Mr. Peabody is one of the::            oldest business men of this town and his
S  high character, coupled with his sterling
business qualities, have won for him the confidence and esteem of his fellow townsmen.
He occupies a large two-story brick sLruc__.   -        ture, twenty-five by seventy feet, and carries
a complete line of dry goods; groceries,
LYMAN B. PEABODY.  boots and shoes, clothing, hats and caps,
jewelry, etc. Although getting along in years, Mr. Peabody is still
active and progressive, and is ever ready to attend to the wants of
his numerous customers. He was born in Niagara County, New
York, and his first business venture was in Washington, D. C.,
during the war. He continued business there for some time and
inally removed to Detroit, where he engaged in business at the
corner of W'oodward avenue and Clifford street. Subsequently he
disposed of his store and went to the oil regions in Ohio, during
the first oil excitement there, and met with varying success. He
finally came to Birmingham, and has been engaged in business
here continuously for thirty-two years. Mr. Peabody has served
as President of the town two years, has been on the School Board,
and has been a Town Trustee. Personally, Mr. Peabody is kindhearted and public-spirited, and one of Birmingham's most respected townsmen.
VICTOR VAN EVERY,
Groceries and Boots and Shoes.
Corner of Saginaw and Middle Sts.
BIRMINGHAM has probably more first-class general stores
than any town of its size in-the county. One of the most notable of
these is the store of Mr. Victor Van Every. I-e carries a large
stock of groceries, boots and shoes, etc., and is continually offering
for sale the best and most seasonable of goods..He has been established now about three years and has done a successful business
from the beginning. He occupies a two-story building, twentyfive by sixty feet, which is none too large to accommodate his
rapidly increasing trade. In his grocery department Will be found
everything usually kept in a first-class store of this kind. Everything is new, fresh and inviting. He makes a specialty of fresh
butter, eggs, teas and coffees. In his shoe department he carries
a large and varied stock, and his goods in this line have been
giving excellent satisfaction. He makes a specialty of mediumpriced shoes, which for style, comfort and durability are unexcelled.
Mr. Van Every was born and reared within five miles of Birmingham, and with slight exception has made his home here. He is

reliable and trustworthy, and is entitled to a share of your patronage. Your orders will be promptly attended to, and you will
he especially pleased with the quality of goods you receive.

FRANK HAGERMAN,
Drugs, Groceries, Paints, Oils, Glass, Cigars and Tobaccos.
Saginaw Street, near Maple Avenue.
PROBABLY ONE of the most complete and popular stores of its kind in Birmi ingham is that of Mr. Frank Iagerman,
at the above address. Mr. Hagerman was
i born in Northampton County, Pa., where
he received a common school education. He
followed the occupation of a farmer until he
was twenty-one years of age, and finally
came to Michigan and settled at Birmingham. He started in as clerk for Mr. George
SL. Lee, and continued with him for some
FRANK HAGERMAN.  time. H-le finally purchased the business of
Mr. Lee, and has continued it successlully ever since. Mr. Hagerman has, in the management of his business, pursued a plan that
lias never failed ultimately, to win success. He is kind and obliging to his customers and is ever striving to keep an assortment of
goods that will please his patrons and thereby increase his trade.
versonally, Mr. Hagerman is a pleasant and agreeable gentleman
to meet. He is modest and unassuming, with just enough push
and enterprise to make his co-operation in any matter, pleasant
and valuable, and not obtrusive. Unlike many business men, he is
never too busy to greet everyone with a pleasant smile and a kind
word. He is at this time President of the Town of Birmingham,
which office came to him unsolicited and without opposition, and
it can safely be said that he has the entire confidence and esteem of
the people of this town.
EDWARD DANIELS,
(succESSOR TO DANIELS & RANDELL.)
Brick Manufacturer.
NOTHING ADDS to the prosperity and importance of a town
so much as its manufacturing interests. Those now located at
birmingham should be patronized and assisted, and others should
be encouraged to locate here. One of the latest, as well as the most
important, in Birmingham, is the brick mills of Mr. Daniels, recently established just south of the town. These mills have been
started on a large scale, and bid fair to become one of the most
important in Oakland County. Mr. Daniels says that the clay
found in this vicifity is of the very best for the making of brick.
He has now on hand a contract for three hundred and fifty thousand brick, and is running the mills to the fullest capacity. From
ten to fifteen men are employed, and the mills have a capacity of
forty thousand brick per day. A new engine house has just been
completed, and what is called the Palate system, for drying, which
insures smooth and perfect brick, has been added. Mr. Daniels
expects soon to add the latest machinery for making drain tile.
Builders in Birmingham and elsewhere will find it to their advantage to inspect the quality of these brick before placing orders
elsewhere. Although it is not generally known, it is a fact nevertheless, that the clay found here burns to a deep red. This is not
the case with a great deal of the brick now being shipped to this
vicinity, which has only an outside coat of red, obtained from the
sand. Mr. Daniels was born in Southfield and attended school
there. He followed the occupation of a farmer until twenty-eight
years of age, and then engaged in the brick business. He is enterprising and well liked by all who know him.
T                TA JOHN LUTHER CAMPBELL, M. D.,
was born at Oakwood, this county, and first
attended school at Royal Oak. He studied
medicine and surgery at the University of
Michigan from 1877 until 1880, thoroughly
mastering his profession. Doctor Campbell
came to Birmingham fifteen years ago, and
has been practising here ever since. He is a
skillful physician and surgeon, and a man of
' broad views and good judgment. He is the
medical examiner for a number of leading
JOHN L. CAMPBELL, M. D.  life insurance companies, and is a United
States pension examining surgeon, on the board at Pontiac. Doe.tor Campbell belongs to the Masons, Odd Fellows, lMaccabees, etc.,
and is an excellent citizen and a conscientiotis gentleman. His

kindly manner and cheerful face has, no doubt, carried hope and
consolation into many a sick room.




Presbyterian Church.

Baptist Church.




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.
11C

PARKS & SON,
Fresh and Salt Meats. Fish and Game in Season.
Corner Saginaw Street and Maple Avenue.
THIS OLD AND RELIABLE market was established about
fifteen years ago by Mr. Alexander Parks. Mr. Parks was born
in Ireland and emigrated to the United States when a boy. He
came to Michigan many years ago and engaged in farming near
Birmingham, until he started the meat business, now known as
Parks & Son. Mr. Parks carried on the business alone, with slight
exception, until about four years ago, when he admitted his son,
Mr. Edgar Parks, as a partner. The market occupies a handsome
corner two-story brick, and is fitted with every modern appliance
for the care of meats. Messrs. Parks and Son smoke and cure
their own hams and bacon. They also handle fruits and vegetables
in season. They have special advantages in buying, and are always
careful to get the best. The fact that they enjoy an extensive patronage that has been with them for years, is proof that their's is a
good place to trade. Messrs. Parks and Son also handle pure ice,
and have recently put a new covered ice wagon into commission.
Heretofore ice has been delivered in an open wagon, which resulted
in considerable loss from the hot rays of the sun. The firm is
progressive and reliable, and deserves a share of your patronage.
Mr. Edward Parks, the junior member of the firm, was born in
Troy, Mich., and attended school at Birmingham until he engaged
in business with his father. Both are pleasant, courteous gentlemen, and have a host of friends.
6 "       NENIAN T. SHAW, M. D., was born
Sin Kent County, Ontario, Canada, where he
received his early education and remained
until he was twenty-two years of age. He
graduated at the Detroit College of Medicine, and began practising his profession at
SFranklin, Mich., where he remained four
years. Dr. Shaw came to Birmingham a little over two years ago, and has rapidly
gained an extensive practice. He is a member of the Detroit Medical Library AssociaNENIAN T. SHAW, M. D.  tion and the medical examiner for several
life insurance companies and fraternal societies. Dr. Shaw is a
careful, painstaking physician,, a highly respected citizen and a
thorough gentleman.
PALACE LIVERY,.Will Baum, Prop.
Maple Avenue, East.
NO ONE CARES to drive a slow, poky old horse, hitched to
a dilapidated old rig, and this is just what you will not get at the
Palace Livery. Mr. Baum   has used extraordinary care in the
selection of his livery outfit. Horses and carriages are the best
that money will buy. He makes a specialty of fine light rigs.
Trucking and expressing also promptly attended to. This livery
occupies a fine two-story brick building, thirty by one hundred
and twenty feet, and has every modern convenience. Mr. Baum
was a resident of Troy, Mich., and attended school there, before
engaging in his present business. He is receiving a good, steady
patronage that is quite satisfactory to him.
BIRMINGHAM STEAM LAUNDRY,
John D. Stabler, Prop.
Maple Avenue, East.
THE LAUNDERING of your linen is an important matter
deserving your careful attention. No person can afford to go
about wearing soiled or poorly laundered linen, when.the facilities
for having it nicely done are so near at hand. The admirable work
done at the laundry of John D. Stabler, Maple avenue east, is a
credit to the proprietor and to the town. The laundry is fitted with
the latest improved machinery and has every facility for turning
out strictly high grade work. No injurious chemicals are used and
patrons can rely upon having their linen returned to them uninjured. This is worth considering. This laundry was established
only about four months ago, and has met with a patronage that is
highly flattering to the proprietor. Mr. Stabler was born and
reared at Livonia, Wayne County, and had thoroughly mastered
the laundering business before starting his present venture. You

are invited to call and inspect his model laundry and the class of
work he is doing.

EDWIN A. O'NEIL,
Harness, Horse Goods, Trunks. Etc.
Corner Saginaw Street and Maple Avenue.
S THE HIGH CHARACTER and standing of this house, and the wide extent of its
trade, renders it one of the most noticeable
features of the mercantile activity which
characterizes the town of Birmingham. Mr.
O'Neil established business in Birmingham
thlirteen years ago, and by perseverance,
ability and good management, has placed
his business in the front rank with those of
his line in this part of the county. In addition to manufacturing and selling harness
EDWIN A. O'NEIL.  and horse goods, he handles and repairs
bicycles. He makes a specialty ot a fine fifteen dollar single harness which it is hard to beat. His factory and store rooms occupy
a space of twenty by sixty feet. His trade extends throughout this
enure section, and his goods are giving excellent satisfaction. Mr.
'N eil was born in Paris, Canada, anb t came to Birmingham when
about twenty-five years of age! He has been a Town Trustee, and
is a man of sterling character. He is of a pleasant, cheerful disposition and well liked by all who know him.
ALFRED JOHNSTON,
Livery.
Fine Light Livery and Expressing.
WHETHER ON PLEASURE or business bent, and in need
of a nice, stylish rig, it would be advisable to call and inspect the
perfect livery equipment of Alfred Johnson, Maple avenue east.
SIhis fine livery has been established eight years and occupies a
large building sixty by one hundred and twenty-five feet. The
carriages are clean, neat and natty, and the horses show evidence
of being carefully fed and groomed. Mr. Johnson was born, and
lived at Southfield, Mich., or a number of years, when he came
to this town and engaged in his present business. His business
has been successful, owing to good business management and the
care with which he treats his customers.
C. ELLENWOOD,
Bakery and Restaurant,
Corner Saginaw Street and Maple Avenue.
THIS MODEL BAKERY          and restaurant has been established about two years, but only came into possession of the present
owner about a year ago. The products of this bakery are good if
the large demand is any indication of quality. In the restaurant no
pains have been spared to make it worthy ot an extensive patronage.
'he tables are not only supplied with substantial eatables, but they
are served in an appetizing manner. Guests here will be surprised
at the quiet, home-like arrangement and the splendid meal served
at a popular price. Lunches and soft drinks are also served, and
the best of cigars are handled.
WALTER NICHOLS,
Wagon and Carriage Factory.
East Maple Avenue.
THE WAGON and carriage factory of Mr. Walter Nichols,
on East Maple avenue, is a two-story brick structure fifty by one
hundred feet. The factory is equipped with the latest tools, and
first-class work is turned out on short notice. In addition to the
wagon and carriage department, is a first-class general blacksmith
and horse shoeing shop, where orders for this class of work are
promptly attended to. Repairing of vehicles is neatly and satisfactorily clone. Several men are now employed there the year
round. The factory was established about four years ago by Mr.
Nichols, and from the beginning the business has prospered. Mr.
Nichols personally superintends all work in his factory and shops,
and can thus guarantee all of his work. Mir. Nichols was born in
Toronto, Canada, and his parents removed to Michigan when he
was but three years old. Like a great many young men, he drifted
from one town to another, wherever he could secure employment,

and finally came to this town. By industry and hard work he has
laid the foundation to a solid business, and no doubt the future will
see his efforts crowned with success.




S~

Residence of Daniel M. Johnston.

Parks & Son's Meat Market.

Warehouse-E. R. Smith & Co.




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

WHITEHEAD & MITCHELL,
Drugs, Groceries, Crockery, Books and Stationery.
Central Office Michigan Telephone Co...        PERHAPS      ONE E
of the most striking
examples of what perseverance and   enterprise,  together  wsith
straightfor ward   business methods, will accomplish, is furnished
by the wonderful success of the firm under
consideration.  StartALMERON WHITEHEAD  ing in business life, as  GEORGE H. MITCHELL.
Messrs. Whitehead and lMitchell did, with only a few dollars, and
an unlimlited amount of energy. perseverance and enterprise as their
capital, they have built up a sound business, and reputation, of
which not only they. but the Town of Birmingham, may well be
proud. The business was established in Ic8I with a very limited
stock of goods, but as their trade increased they were enabled to
enlarge it from time to time. One line after another was added to
the grocery and drug stock, as the demands of their trade increased,
until now they carry one of the largest and best stocks of drugs.
groceries, crockery, bools and stationery and: novelties to be found
in any part of the county. Their enterprise, however, did not stop
here. As late as 1887 the town of Birmingham, with its many and
varied business interests, was without banking facilities of any
kind, and its merchants were compelled to lock their cash in their
office safe, carry it home with them or bank it in another town.
It was then that Messrs. Whitehead and Mitchell established the
Exchange Bank, a solid institution in every way, with a good
working capital, and first-class equipment. The management of
their extensive business was then divided, Mr. VWhitehead talking
the entire charge of the bank, and Mr. Mitchell that of the general
stores. Nor is this all. Messrs. Whitehead and Mitchell are the
publishers of The Birimingham Eccentric, a live up-to-date weekly
newspaper. The Birminghanm postoffice is located in their stores.
They are also the Biriningham representatives of the Michigan Telephone Company. Thus it will be seen that the interests of Messrs.
Whitehead and Mitchell and Birmingham are identical, and perhaps no two men in Birmingham have done more to advance the
interests of the town than they. Their general stores and bank
building, known as the Masonic block, are substantial brick structures, aggregating sixty by eighty feet, two stories high. Mr.
Almeron Whitehead, the senior member of the firm, was born in
Waterford. Oakland county, and remained on a farm until he was
twenty-one years of age. He then came to Birmingham      and
clerked with J. Allen Bigelow in the grocery business. Later he
engaged as traveling salesman for the Detroit Paper Company, with
whom he remained about one year. At the expiration of that time
he returned to Birmingham and formed a partnership with Mr.
Bigelow, with whom he remained for some time. He next engaged
in partnership with Mr. Mitchell with whom he has remained
ever since. Mr. Whitehead has been township clerk for eleven
years and has held various other positions of trust. He is a pleasant and courteous gentleman to meet. Mr. Geo ge H. Mitchell, the
iunior memnber of the firm, was born in Birmingham and attended
school here. His first business experience was as a clerk for J.
Allen Bigelow, with whoml he remained for about two years. His
next occupation was that of clerk and telegraph operator for Mr.
Frank Hagerman, which position he retained some eight years. He
then formed the partnership with Mr. iWhitehead which is still in
force. Mr. Mitchell is a conscientious. upright. business man, has
been postmaster for four years, and has friends by the score. His
fund of good nature is never exhausted.
JOHN M. RAINEY,
Shaving Parlors.
Cor. Saginaw Street and Maple Avenue.

MR. RAINEY started business in his present location in Septenmber, 1896, and secured a good trade from the start. His business has
been increasing steadily. He is a barber of the first order, and the
man who is looking for a first-class shave or hair-trimming, will not
be disappointed if he calls on him. Mr. Rainey enjoys a wide circl4
of acquaintances, and is thoroughly reliable.

DAVID M. DOTY,
Marble and Granite Monuments.
Saginaw Street, South.
MONUMENTS HAVE served the purpose of marking the
graves of the dead for past hundreds of years. The Romans and
Egyptians were, perhaps, the most extravagant in their use. Marble and granite have at all times been the favorite material out of
which monuments have been constructed. The cutting of marble
is an art to that requires years of practice to become proficient in.
Mr. Doty has had years of experience in this line and may fairly
be said to have mastered his art. He started in this business ni
Birmingham some eighteen years ago, and we may say that- his
work is admirable. No need of going outside of Birmingham for
a fitting monument, wheni such a skilled workman is near at hand.
V. NIXON,
General Store.
Saginaw Street South.
THIS ENTERPRISING business house.:has begn in existence since 1884. Mr. Nixon
handles a complete and full line of dry goods,
groceries, boots and shoes, clothing, hats,
caps and gentlemen's furnishing goods. He
occupies a commodious two-story building,
twenty-five by eighty feet, and does an extensive business. He is one of those bright,. cheerful men, who are never found complaining, but always looking upon the bright
side of everything. He is kind and obliging
v. NIXON.    to a degree, and during his long residence
here has made a host of friends, whose name are legion. Always
on the alert to secure the latest and best in his several lines, his
store presents an attractiveness that deserves considerate attention.
Mr. Nixon was born in Southfield and attended school there. He
first engaged in business here with a Mr. Carson, which continued
for three years. Disposing of his business, he worked for Mr. J. S.
Stockwell for some time, and later went to Pontiac, where he
clerked for Mr. A. M. Knight and for John Pound successively.
He finally returned to Birmingham and again started in business
with Mr. F. Blakeslee. Mr. Isaac Mabee soon succeeded Mr.
Blakeslee as partner, and continued with Mr. Nixon for three
years, when he retired. Mr. Nixon has since continued the business alone, and by diligence and enterprise has built up a solid and
substantial business. He is thoroughly reliable and trustworthy,
and deserving of continued success.
C. H. SCHLAACK & CO.,
General Hardware, Stoves, Farming Implements, Tinware, Glass,
Paints, Oils, Etc.
West Side Saginaw Street, Opp. Middle Street.
THIS FIRM is composed of Mr. Charles
H. Schlaack and Mr. Frank Ford. This
solid and extensive business was established
Sin 1849 by Mr. Hugh Erving, and was purchased in 1892 by Messrs. Ford and Schlaack,
who have materially increased the patronage
of the concern. In order to fully appreciate
the large quantity and variety of goods carried in stock, a visit should be paid to their
store. They carry everything in the line of
builders' hardware, household utensils, farmCHARLES SCHLAACK.  ing implements, tinware, paints, glass, oils,
etc. They have also a first-class tin-shop in connection with the
store, and do galvanized iron work. Some idea of the size of the
business may be obtained by the fact that they occupy about 6,00ooo
feet of floor space. The firm is located on the west side of Saginaw street, opposite Middle street. Mr. Schlaack, who has the
general management of the business (Mr. Ford being a silent
partner), was born and reared in Troy, Mich. He learned the
wheelwright trade and worked a great deal in theWest before
locating in this town. He is a live, active business man, and of
the kind that help to make a town progressive. By hard work and

close attention to business, he has earned acknowledged success.




Residence of Mr. Airreron Whitehead.

--,---- - I - --, I I -- -- -il

Residence of Mr. Alexander Parks.




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

NATIONAL HOTEL,
George E. Daines, Prop.
East Saginaw Street.
i, ---  --        THIS POPULAR HOTEL was estab-.        lished early in the '6os by A. C. Ellis, and
S:            was purchased in 1865 by Mr. John Daines.
K Mr. Daines was born and reared in Penn
Ya'n, New York State, and came to Michigan
i'n 1840. He established a pottery at Bloomfield Center, Mich., and being a first-class
potter, his business was a success from the
beginning. Mr. Daines was the second man
in the United States to start the manufacture
of drain tile, and his product in this line was
GEORGE E. DAINES.  of such a superior kind that it received high
awards at the national exhibitions of those times. In 1865 AMlr.
Daines disposed of his pottery and engaged in the hotel business as
above stated. His enterprise and business ability enabled him to
command success in his new uncertaking, and until his death in
1673, his hotel business flourished. At the death of Mr. Daines, the
management of the house was assumed by his son, Mr. George E.
Daines, the present proprietor. Mr. George E. Daines was born
at Bloomfield Center and received his education there. Previous to
assuming the hotel management, Mr. Daines clerked in the drug
store of Frank Hagerman for seven years. The business experience
gained by Mr. Daines while in the employ of Mr. Hagerman was
of great value to him in his new undertaking. That Mr. Daines
has, for many years past, managed the house to the entire satisfaction of the citizens of Birmingham and the traveling public, no one
will deny. The neat, tidy rooms, the clean, wholesome and bountiful table, and the quiet, orderly bar all reflect great credit upon the
proprietor. The hotel is a large two-story wooden structure, with
a frontage of one hundred and thirty-five feet, and is seventy feet
deep, containing twenty rooms. Mr. Daines is now making extensive modern improvements, such as bath, toilet rooms, etc. Mr.
Daines' enterprise and progressiveness is not confined to his hotel,
as he is the proprietor of a large furniture warehouse located on
Saginaw  street, and a first-class undertaking establishment on
Maple avenue east. He has been a Trustee of the town over
twenty years, which shows that his sterling business qualifications
are fully appreciated by his fellow citizens. Mr. Daines is a genial
host, has a staff of efficient and courteous assistants, and a wide
circle of friends.
JAMES M. CLEMENT,
Horseshoing and General Blacksmithing.
Maple Avenue, East.
A MAN who is an expert in his line and has achieved success
is Mr. James Clement. Mr. Clement's specialty is horseshoeing,
and he is said to be one of the best horseshoers in this part of the
state. He has always taken great pride in his trade, and has won
many premiums on exhibitions of his work. He learned his trade
at Pontiac, under the direction of an expert horseshoer, by working evenings, after having done his day's work at the knitting mills
where he was then employed. Mr. Clement was born at Pontiac and
lived there about twenty-five years. He then came to Birmingham
and engaged in business for himself, which has been established
for nine years. He is pleasant and agreeable, and has the confidence of all who know him.
DANIEL M. JOHNSTON, Birmingham's popular and efficient
dentist, was born in the County of Perth, Canada, and remained there
until he was nineteen years of age. His first occupation was that of
a farmer.  When it came to choosing a profession, " Dan," as he is
known to everyone in and about Birmingham, had a hard time deciding whether it would be photography or dentistry. He finally decided
upon the latter, however, and entered the Toronto Dental College,
where he obtained a thorough training in the profession.  " Dan "
came to Birmingham seventeen years ago, and has been practising his
profession and making friends here ever since. He has become a
fixture in the place, and if the street cars were to stop running or the
fire tower blown down, they would not be missed so much as plain,
genial " Dan " Johnston, were he to depart from this town.

WILLIAM B. EWING & SONS,
Saw Mill.
Hardwood Lumber and Dredge Timber.
Adjoining D., G. H. & M. Tracks,
ABOUT THREE YEARS ago Messrs. William B. Ewing
and Sons started a saw mill near the D., G. H. & M. tracks for the
manufacture of hardwood lumber and dredge timber, and have
done an extensive business ever since., Their mill has a capacity
of seven thousand feet a day and is always running. The building
is fifty by one hundred feet and presents a very lively appearance.
The hum of the saw, as it swiftly eats its way through a hardwood
log, while not as harmonious as the strains of a waltz by an expert
on a piano, is the kind of music that makes a town prosperous.
Messrs. Ewing and Sons have, during the past, turned out some
very fine timber from this mill, and they are now engaged in fitting
up a mill on the River Rouge for the manufacture of hardwood
lumber that will, be one of the largest in the country. Mr. Ewing,
the elder, was a native of Londonderry, Ireland, and started in the
lumber business at Elm, Wayne County, about ten years ago, which
business he continued for about four years. He then removed to
Orchard Lake, where he was also engaged in the lumber trade.
Three years ago he came to Birmingham and started the present
mill, which has been successful beyond all his expectations. The
sons, Alfred H. and James R.4 have been associated with their father
in business for some time past. All are live, energetic business
men, and are well and favorably known in this community.
CHARLES M. RAYNOLE, M. D., was
born and raised in Birmingham. Dr. Raynole, or "Doctor Charlie," as he is familiarly known in this place, graduated at the
Detroit College of Medicine in 1869, and has
been practising medicine and surgery here
ever since. He was a United States pension
examining surgeon, on the Board at Poniacduring President Cleveland's administration; belongs to the Masons and the K. of
P., and is a thoroughly good citizen. Dr.
CHARLES RAYNOLE, M. D.  Raynole is a skillful, conscientious physician,
and has the confidence and esteem of his fellow townsmen.
WILLIAM I. GEER,
Shaving Parlors.
Maple Avenue, Corner Pierce Street.
MR. WILLIAM      I. GEER is a tonsorial artist of the first
order. His shaving parlors at the above address are fitted up in
first-class style. Mr. Geer has been established about three years
and commands a good patronage. He is always on hand to serve
the wants of his patrons, and has the reputation of being thoroughly
ieliable and a careful workman.
WILLIAM I. McCLELLAND,
Agricultural Implements, Wagons and Buggies.
Saginaw Street. near Maple Avenue.
THERE    IS ONLY     one exclusive agricultural implement
warehouse in Birmingham, and that is the establishment of Mr. McClelland. He carries a full line of the latest and best harvesters,
mowers and miscellaneous farming implements. He is agent for the
celebrated Champion Harvesting Machinery, and has all the supplies required for the same. He is the exclusive agent here for
Messrs. Clark and Company's high grade buggies, the Owego
wagons and Empire drills. He established business in 1894 and his
business has extended rapidly. His success is due entirely to his
individual progressiveness and straightforward methods of doing
business. Mr. McClelland was born in Southfield, Mich., and received his education there. He is known as one of Birmingham's
most enterprising and reliable business men. His kind consideration for others h-as won him many friends, who wish him many
years of continued success.




Residence of Mrs. Sterns.

Residence of Mr. Moses K. Tabor.




II

Residence of Mr.,George H. Mitchell.

Water Works.




High School Building.

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PROMINENT PARMS IN TLE VICINITY Ol BIRMINGIHAI\.

WATKINS SHETLAND PONY FARM,
G. A. Watkins, Owner.
THE WATKINS Shetland Pony Farm
adjoins the Village of Birmingham on the.wxest. The main buildings are about oneS half mile from the railroad station. Tele/'      phone at the afrm. Telephone at Detroit,
No. 2227. The farm contains three hundred
and thirty-six acres of as fine land as can be
4:'"   ifound anywhere. It is well watered by the
River Rouge running through it from north
to south, forming a mill-pond of about eight
acres of deep clear water that is teeming with
G. A. WATKINS.   seeral varieties of the finny tribe. Three
windmills furnish water to the farm buildings and yards, and fields
not connected with the river. A steam engine furnishes power to
grind the feed, cut up corn fodder, saw wood, etc. The four houses
for foreman and help are pleasantly located, well built, and nicely
kept. The barns, five in number, and the aggregate length of which
is 414 feet. are built for comfort and covenence, and all the buildI                                                   I

McGraw- Building, but should you go to' Birmingham without
coming to the city, you will be nicely entertained, and the farm

PONY BARNS-WATKINS' SHETLAND FONY FARM.
foreman will deal with you on the same terms as would the
proprietor.
THE LUTHER STANLEY FARMI,
The Stanley Estate, Owners,
THE LUTHER STANLEY FARM is located on the Detroit
and Pontiac road, about one-half mile south of Birmingham.
The farm consists of two hundred and twelve acres of land, all
improved. The land is quite level and the soil of a gravelly loam.
This land was purchased many years ago by William     Stanley,
who made the first improvements on it. When William Stanley
icd te farm was wild te fille  to his son, Luther Stanley, who died

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GROUP OF PONIES
-WATKINS' SHETLAND PCNY FARM

ings on the farm are kept well painted. The great specialty on
this farm is the breeding of Shetland ponies. Here you will find
one of the finest herds in America, consisting of about one hundred
and fifty head, all being pure bred and registered; either imported
or from imported stock. The ponies are all carefully broken when
two years old. Most of them are very small. The writer has
seen pony colts on this farm that he could easily pick up and carry
away under one arm. They are very hardy, as well as pretty, and
are all kind and gentle, and great pets for ladies and children. The
only other stock raised on this farm is a few pure bred Jersey
cattle and Poland china hogs. Mr. Watkins gives personal direction to the management of this farm, but it is under the careful
supervision of John H. Myers, who is a practical man in every
way. Should you come to Detroit, call on the proprietor at No. 48

RESIDENCE-LUTHER STANLEY FARM.
about five years ago. This farm has been under a high state of
cultivation for many years, and it is said that the tiling alone on




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

the farm cost over $30 per acre. The buildings on the place consist of a good brick and frame house, large barn 36x88 feet, large
shed, tool house, etc. A windmill supplies the barns with plenty
of water. The stock consists of a number of thoroughbred Jersey
and Gurnsey cattle, besides the ordinary farm stock. Milk from
this farm is supplied to the Edgewood Jersey Milk Company, of
Detroit. The products are the general farm products, which are
raised in plenty. The farm has been under charge of Mr. J. L.
Todd for the past fourteen years, and the general fine appearance of the place speaks well for his management.
FOUNTAIN FARM,
Isaac Mabee, Owner.
FOUNTAIN FARM consists of one hundred and ten acres
of good farming land, all improved. It is located two miles northeast of Birmingham, on the town-line road. The land is quite level
and the soil is a clay-gravelly loam. A running stream of water

farm, which was taken up from the government by his father,
Mr. Samuel Satterlee, in 1823. The soil is a gravelly loam, and the
land rolling. The land is all improved and is very productive.
Hay, grain, corn, potatoes and all farm products are raised in
abundance. The buildings consist of a fine large frame house, a
tenant house (the old homestead), and hay, grain and stock barns.
A running stream supplies barns with water. The farm is well
supplied with live stock, a specialty being made of sheep raising.
Everything about the farm is conducted in a manner that produce
the best possible results. Mr. Satterlee was marreid in 1855 to
Miss Caroline A. Peck (died in 1889) and has three sons and one
daughter. Although Mr. Satterlee is getting well along in years,
he is still hale and hearty, and finds his greatest pleasure in superintending the work on his place.
NAYLON FARM,
John Naylon, Owner.
THE NAYLON FARM is located on the Troy road, three
and three-fourths miles northeast of Birmingham. The farm con
sists of eighty-six acres of fine rolling land, and the soil is a gravelly loam. Mr. Naylon purchased this farm about two and a half
years ago. and with the improvements he has made the place -is
scarcely recognizable. He has remodeled the old barns and built
new ones, built new fences, put in an extensive system of tiling and
otherwise greatly improved and beautified the place. The buildings consist of a pretty stone house, large hay and grain barn, horse
and carriage barn, ice house and shed, hog and hen houses, etc. A
good windmill pumps water into a large tank, which supplies the
house and barns. A living spring feeds a brook in the pasture
lands, affording water to the stock at all times. There is a good
apple, oeach and plum orchard on the farm, and this has been augmented lately by a number of young trees. Although not aiming
to keep a thoroughbred stock farm, Mr. Navlon has some well-bred
horses and cattle, and some thoroughbred sheep and hogs. The
products are the general farm products, of which excellent crops
are raised. Mr. Naylon is one of the large number of Detroit citizens who have become charmed by the beauty of the rich rolling

BARN SCENE-FOUNTAIN FARM.
(a branch of the River Rouge) runs through the farm. The buildings consist of a very pretty farm house and three large barns.
The house stands on an elevated piece of ground and is surrounded with handsome shade trees and shrubbery. Everything
about the place presents a neat and tidy appearance. The farm was
formerly known as the Taber farm and has a reputation of producing fine crops. Mr. Mabee keeps the regular farm stock of horses,
sheep and hogs, besides an extraordinary fine lot of cattle. Mr.
Mabee was at one time engaged in mercantile business at Birmingham, which he continued for six years. He was born in New York
state and has lived within four miles of Birmingham for the past
thirty years. He was married in 185o to Miss Sallie Pomeroy, and
has one daughter.
FIVE OAKS FARM,
Wm. Satterlee, Owner.
FIVE OAKS FARM is one of the oldest as well as one of the
best farms in this vicinity. The farm is situated three miles north
BARN SCENE-NAYLON FARM.
land of this vicinity and have purchased country places here. Mr.
Naylon has selected one of the prettiest of farms, and when he has
completed all improvements will have one of the handsomest places
in this locality. Mr. Naylon resides in Detroit, but visits the farm
often to attend to improvements and enjoy the beauties of the
place.
THE COOPER FARM,
James R. Cooper, Owner.
ONE OF the largest, as well as one of the most productive
farms in this vicinity is the Cooper Farm, consisting of three hundred and forty-five acres. The owner, Mr. James R. Cooper, was
born on the place and remained there until he was nineteen years
of age. He then went to Detroit and secured a position wvith the
smelting works in that city..When his father died he inherited
about thirty acres of land from  him. Later he purchased the
Anthony, Cantine and Brush farms successively. The Cooper farm
is situated one and a half miles north of Birmingliani, on the Detroit
and Pontiac road, and is well known throughout this section of the
country. The farm is all improved and yields immnense crops every
year. The soil is a clay loam and the land slightly rolling. Run
RESIDENCE-FIVE OAKS FARM.
east of Birmingham, and contains two hundred and sixty acres.
Mr. William Satterlee, the owner, was born and raised upon the




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

ning streams fed by springs run through the farm and afford plenty
of water for horses and cattle. A drilled well also supplies a
splendid mineral water, which is being shipped to various places
quite extensively. There are two houses and large hay, grain and
cattle barns. A windmill supplies water and grinds all the feed.
Some well-bred trotting stock is kept on the farm. prominent
among which is the stallion Spartacus. As may be imagined, it
requires a great deal of care and judgment to properly attend to a
farm of this size. Although Mr. Cooper does not attend to the
farm personally, it is under the careful management of his capable
superintendent, Mr. Wilborn B. Harris. Mr. Cooper was married
twenty-three years ago to Miss Jennie Chitsey and has one daughter and two sons. By hard work and good management Mr.
Cooper has acquired one of the best farms in this part of Michigan.
SPRINGBROOK FARM,
Edward T. Brooks, Owner.
SPRINGBROOK FARM, owned by Mr. Edward T. Brooks.
is about one and a half miles west of Birmingham, and consists of
one hundred and sixty acres of ideal farming land. The soil is a
gravelly loam and the land is quite level. The buildings comprise
a fine large farm house, a tenant house and six barns of various
sizes. The farm has over twelve miles of tiling, and perfect drainage. A constant supply of water is obtained from flowing wells,
and it is pure and cold. The land is very productive and the yield
is as large as any land in this vicinity. Mr.Brooks makes a spe
springs on the farm and a branch of the River Rouge runs through
it, so that water is plentiful. Three houses, two hay and grain

RESIDENCE-CHESTNUT HILL FARM.
barns, horse and carriage house, tool and hen houses, etc., constitute
the buildings on the place. Mr. Brady resides in Detroit, and later
may use the place for a summer home.
HUPP FARM,
Mrs. C. J. Hupp, Owner.
THE HUPP FARM is situated one mile west of Birmingham,
on the Franklin road, and contains one hundred and fifty-one acres
of fine farming land. The soil is a sand and clay loam, and the
land rolling. There are running springs on the farm, which supply
water for the stock the year round. The land has all been thoroughly 'drained and tiled and put in the best possible shape for
cultivation. The buildings on the farm consist of a farm house,
three large barns, carriage, tool houses, etc. A windmill with an
elevated tank holding two hundred barrels of water supply all wants
in this direction. Mrs. C. J. Hupp, the owner, purchased the farm
only a year ago and has only begun to improve the place. A large
new modern house will be built at once, and other improvements
made with a view of beautifying the farm. A beautiful driveway,
bordered with fine trees, has been constructed and the barns remodeled and painted. Everything will be done to put the place on a
par with other prominent farms in this vicinity. Mrs. Hupp will
make the place her permanent home, and no one will question that
she has made a wise selection.
RED GABELS FARM,
Edward L. Parsons, Owner.
RED GABELS FARM was purchased by the late Philo Parsons, of Detroit, during the civil war, and was inherited by Mr.
Edward Parsons upon the death of his father. The farm is situated two and a half miles southwest of Birmingham    on the
AK-K~ iK

RESIDENCE-SPRINGBROOK FARM.
cialty of breeding heavy draft horses and gentlemen's thoroughbred roadsters. He has also thoroughbred Jersey, Durham and
Gurnsey cattle. Two thoroughbred, stylish roadsters-Freddie B.
and Reno-are the property of Mr. Fred Brooks, son of Edward T.
Brooks, and they are indeed fine animals. Mr. Brooks has owned
the farm but three years, and during this short time has placed it
in the front rank with other prominent farms in this vicinity. Mr.
Alex. Grossbeck, the superintendent, deserves a share of the credit
for the present high state of perfection that has been attained on
this farm.
CHESTNUT HILL FARM,
George M. Brady, Owner.
CHESTNUT HILL FARM is situated two miles north of
Birmingham, on the Detroit and Pontiac road. There are one
hundred and eighty acres of extremely beautiful rolling land, the
soil being a gravelly loam. Mr. Brady is another one of Detroit's
citizens who appreciate the beauties of this locality for a country
place. Mr. Brady purchased this place about a year ago and has
been improving it ever since. He has rebuilt the house and barns,
and is now building a new tenant house near the farm house. Mr.
Brady has gone about making his improvements in a business-like
way, and the result is he has accomplished a great deal in a short
time. And it may be said that no small share of credit for the fine
condition of the farm is due to the personal interest taken by Mr.
H. E. Craft, Mr. Brady's superintendent on the place. The products of the farm are principally fruit, there being three thousand
peach, two thousand apple and about two hundred pear trees on the
place. Besides this, there is one of the finest vineyards in this part
of the country, producing a fine grade of White, Concord and
Niagara grapes. The land is all improved and new fences and
extensive tiling has been recently put on it. There are four natural

RESIDENCE-RED GABELS FAFM.
Fourteen-mile road, and contains one hundred and fifty acres of
level, land, with a sandy loam soil and clay sub-soil. The buildings




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

consist of a fine large fifteen-room  house, large hay, grain,
horse and cattle barns, etc. There is a fine flowing well on
the farm two hundred feet in depth. Mr. Parsons is a breeder of
fast stock, at the head of which is the thoroughbred stallion, Red
Chief, by Red Wilkes. Mr. Parsons is also a breeder of heavy
draft horses and has a fine imported Belgium stallion. Mr. Parsons has made extensive improvements on the place lately, spending $3,ooo on the house alone this spring. He contemplates making Red Gabels one of the finest country places in this locality.
All kinds of farm products are raised, but a specialty is made of
garden produce. Mr. Parsons was born in Detroit, has lived on
his present farm five years and is unmarried.
SHADYSIDE FARM,
Albert S. and John B. Adams, Owners.
SHADYSIDE FARM, consisting of two hundred and forty
acres, is situated one-half mile northeast of Birmingham. The
land is slightly rolling and the soil a clay and gravel loam. The
farm is in a good state of cultivation. Never failing water is supplied by living springs. The buildings consist of a large farm

house can be seen standing at the top of a hill in bold relief, with
a background of beautiful trees and rolling green fields. And
the presence of several large hay and grain barns do not detract

INTERIOR VIEW (RECEPTION ROOM.)
RESIDENCE-MAPLE RIDGE FARM.
from the beauty of the scene. Perhaps there is no prettier farm
scene to be found in any part of this section of country. The
house is deserving of especial mention. It is a large, modern twostory structure of the most beautiful design. But the beautiful exterior does not fully prepare one for the lovely arrangement and
furnishings of the interior. The parlor, reception  and sitting
rooms are furnished in the most elegant manner. Upon entering
the vestibule you catch a glimpse of the beauty withi. To the right
in the reception room is a broad winding staircase, and to the left
are sliding doors leading into the parlor. Back of the parlor is
the library and sitting rooms, while to the right of these is the
dining room. Beautiful mantels with fireplaces adorn both the
parlor and reception room. The woodwork is natural oak and polished. The kitchen, pantry, storeroom, cellar, etc., are models of

RESIDENCE-SHADYSIDE FARM.
house and numerous barns, conveniently arranged. The house
stands upon a slight elevation of ground and is surrounded by large
evergreen and other ornamental trees. Messrs. Adams conduct
a general line of farming, consisting of grain, stock, etc. The farm
was taken up from the government in 1825 by Seymour Adams,
father of the Adams brothers, he making the first improvements on
the place. The farm is one of the oldest and best known in this
vicinity.
MAPLE RIDGE FARM,
Edward Miller, Owner.
MAPLE RIDGE FARM may properly be classed as one of
the most beautiful farms in this part of the country. The farm is
two miles and a half west of Birmingham, on the Franklin road,

INTERIOR VIEW (PARLOR.)
RESIDENCE-MAPLE RIDGE FARM.
their kind. The sleeping rooms on the second floor are bowers of
beauty. The house is hot water heated, lit with gas, and has bath
with hot and cold water. Gas is also used during hot weather to
cook with. There is also a telephone in the house, connecting
with all parts of the country. In fact, everything that comfort and
elegance can suggest can be found here. But the beauty of the
farm is not confined to the house alone. A short distance back of
the house is a very high knoll, and if you take a short, steep climb
to the top of it you will be well paid for the trouble. The view
from this point is fine. Off to the northwest is the lovely Gilbert
Lake, while to the east and south are rolling green lands and
golden fields of ripened grain, with a farmhouse here and there to
enhance the beauty of the scene. The farm is very productive and
all kinds of products are raised. In addition to the regular stock,
Mr. Miller has a number of thoroughbred Gurnsey cattle. Mr.
Miller was born in Bloomfield and has lived there ever since. He
was married in 1885 to Mrs. Arabella A. Daniels and together they
have made their farm what it is to-day. Having no children of
their own, they adopted five children from the Coldwater School
and have given them an elegant home and the best of training.

RESIDENCE-MAPLE RIDGE FARM.
and contains two hundred and forty acres of beautiful rolling
land. Approaching the farm   by the road from   the east the
prospect is delightful. Nearly a mile away, the magnificent farm



BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

LAKESIDE FARM,
Mrs. Edward J. O'Brien, Owner.
LAKESIDE FARM is situated three miles west of Birmingham, at Gilbert Lake. The farm contains two hundred and twentyfive acres of slightly rclling land. The buildings on the farm

The farm is considered one of the best in this locality. Mr. Poppleton was born on the village end of the farm and has lived there
nearly all his life. His father was one of the old pioneers of this
section and kept a general store in Birmingham for fifty-four years.
Mr. Edgar C. Poppleton was a merchant in Birmingham and Evart
for twenty-seven years, although he has always been interested
in farming. He inherited his present farm from his father and has
been improving it constantly ever since. Mr. Poppleton was married in 1871 to Miss Mary B. Cooper, and has three daughters.
LAKEVIEW FARM,
Charles Knowles, Owner.
LAKEVIEW     FARM is one of the most picturesque farms to
be found in this part of the country. It is situated three and a half
miles northwest of Birmingham, at Gilbert Lake. The farm contains one hundred and eighty-six acres, twenty of which are in the
lake. Mr. Knowles purchased this farm about five years ago of
Mr. Reuben Adams, whose brother owned it before him. The
land is level and the soil a gravelly loam. Mr. Knowles has made
many improvements on the place, and has recently planted a
large number of mulberry, apricot, chestnut and cherry trees. The
soil is very fertile and Mr. Knowles will harvest about one thousand bushels of wheat this year, besides a full crop of other farm
products. The buildings consist of a good farm house, three hay,
grain and horse barns, corn and ice house, etc. The particular
beauty of the place is the lovely lake, of which a part belongs to the
farm. There is the usual farm stock on the place, such as horses,
cattle, sheep, etc. There is a story connected with the farm that
there is hidden somewhere upon it a considerable amount of money
in gold. It is said that old Father Adams was a wealthy man and
had a considerable amount of money which he was in the habit of
biding under old boards, stones, etc., being afraid to kecp it in the

RESIDENCE-LAKESIDE FARM.
are a very handsome new house, two large hay and grain barns,
corn house. ice house, tool house, etc. The soil is a gravclly loam
and bears excellent crops. There is one of the finest orchards in
the country on the farm, producing a superior quality of apples,
peaches and pears. Several years ago the fruit of one season in
this orchard was sold for $800 cash, and the buyers picked the fruit
themselves. Mr. O'Brien. who manages the place, has recently
planted a new peach orchard of four hundred trees and an apple
orchard of five hundred trees. The farm extends into Gilbert Lake
and the scene here is very pretty. The lake is of great advantage
to the farm. as it supplies water for the stock, ice in the winter and
fine boating, fishing and duck hunting in the summer. A large
\ indmill supplies the house and barns with excellent water. Mr.
O'Brien believes that scientific farming pays and that a farm requires the same careful, systematic management that any other
business demands to make it successful. Mr. O'Brien was married in 1887 to Miss Frances Gardener, who inherited the farm from
her father. He has but one child--a baby girl.
THE POPPLETON FARM,
Edgar C. Poppleton, Owner.
THE POPPLETON FARM adjoins the Town of Birmingham on the north, contains one-quarter of a section of land and is
on the town line road. The land is slightly rolling and the soil
ranges from a heavy sandy loam  to a clay loam, and is well
watered by springs and the Rouge. The farm is all improved,
tiled and drained. The buildings consist of a good farm house, finHOUSE AND BARNS-POPPLETON FARM,
large new hay. grain and cattle barn. large horse and grain barn,
fine new hog house and corncrib combined, etc. General farm
products are raised, and the live stock is of the usual farm kind.

RESIDENCE-LAKEVIEW FARM.
house for fear of being robbed. It is related that when the old man
wished to pay off his men he would go out into the field, roll over
a stone and produce the money. At his death it was believed by
many that a considerable amount was still hidden in this manner.
Mr. Knowles says that while there may be some truth in the story,
he does not believe it, and does not propose to lose any time looking for it. Mr. Knowles was born in Oakland, attended school
there and has always been a farmer. He was married eighteen
years ago to Miss Carrie Bigler, and has a daughter and son.
LONG MEADOWS STUD FARM,
Frederick Joy, Jr., Owner.
LONG MEADOWS STUD FARM is three miles northeast.
of Birmingham, on the town line road, and consists of two hundred
and twenty-five acres of fine farming land. It was purchased about
seven years ago by Mr. Frederick Joy, Sr., who died two years
after. The short history of this magnificent farm is a sad one
indeed. Frederick Joy, Sr., was a son of the Hon. James F. Joy, of
Detroit. Frederick was the only one of the sons who cared at all
for farming. He purchased this farm and began a series of improvements, which ended only with his death. At the time Mr. Joy
purchased the farm there were only two old barns and a dilapidated house on the place. He erected a fine large house, large
1modern hay. grain and horse barns, new fences and made general
improvements. He imported a fine lot of thoroughbred hackney
horses from England, and began to breed them. He had just put
the farm in nice shape when his death occurred. He was married




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

shortly after pulrchasing the larm and left an only child, Frederick,
Jr. T-ihe writer was conducted into the house and shown the room
where Frederick loved to sit and gaze upon. the beautiful scene
without. At one end of the room is a large old-fashioned fireplace
which would admit a good-sized log. Antique bric-a-brac, old pictures and great easy chairs and a general air of elegance and comfort present a picture to the eye that is not easily effaced. No one
can stand in this roonim, look upon the surroundings and hear the
sad story of Frederick's death without feelings of the deepest sorrow and sympathy. Since Mr. Joy's death somne of the thoroughbreds have been sold, but there still remains a first-class stable,
prominent amniong which mnay be mentioned the imported hackney
stallions Faidango, Otho and Intellect. There is als oa fine flock
of Shropshire scheep on the farm. All kinds of farm products are
Aft--)----  ~~-~~:il   L---:~L- --~ - IC

gas, and has bath with hot and cold water. The rooms are large
and airy, and furnished in handsome style. In fact, the whole
arirangement of the house is designed to affoird the greatest coinmfort and ease. A broad veranda extends the whole length of the.7

TENNENT HOUSE-FISHER FARM.
front of the house, with steps and a cement walk at either end leading down to the roadway. The house is situated upon an elevation
of ground that overlooks the whole farm. The fine large barns are
situated just back of the house and may properly be said to be the
best in this part of the country. The main barn, a new one, is
constructed in L shape, the front portion being 36xi36 feet and the
rear portion 36xIIo feet. In the front portion, on the oround floor,
are the carriage. hay, grain and engine rooms. The upper floor is
devoted to grain, feed and a watchman's sleeping room, and in the
basement are the potato and vegetable bins. In the rear portion,
on the ground floor, is the large cattle room, fitted with patent
stanchions for fifty-two head. These stanchions are long, narrow
wooden frames suspended by chains. One side of these frames
swings open, and when the cattle insert their heads the fraime is
closed about their necks, securing them and allowing perfect freedomi of action. The upper floor contains feed and a feed mill. An
iron track with a feed car runs the whole length of this floor. The

RESIDENCE-JOY FARM.
raised and the crops are good. Mr. WV. S. WValker, who superintends the place, sees to it that everything is kept up in first-class
shape, and when Frederick, Jr., who has inherited the farm from
his father, and who is now but five years of age, grows up to manhood he will find himself the possessor of a beautiful estate.
THE FISHER FARM,
M. M. Fisher, Owner.
PROMINENT AMONG the large farms in this vicnity is
the Fisher Farm. It is situated two miles west of Birmingham, on
the Franklin road, and contains two hundred acres of slightly
rolling land of a gravelly loam soil. Mr. Fisher purchased this
farm about four y:ears ago of Mr. Julius Rundell, and has leff
nothing undone to place it in the front rank with other notable
farms about Birmingham. Extensive improvements in the way

PARTIAL VIEW MAIN BARN-FISHER FARM.
feed is first ground in the mill and then placed in a large steam vat,
\ where it is thoroughly cooked. It is then loaded into the feed car
and delivered below through trap doors to the cattle on. the ground
floor and the sheep in the basement. A fifteen-horse power boiler
and engine runs the feed mill, a wood saw and furnlishes steam to
cookl the feed. A fine horse barn, Nwith a ManIisard roof. stands to
the right of the main barn, while to the rear is a large thrashing
barn wxhich, `when the grain is thrashlied out, contains the straw.
Near the barns are pretentious hen and hog houses. A-ll of the
barn buildings have cement floors in the basements and first stories,
wvith stone foundations. In addition to the buildings already mentioned, there are two good tenant houses and an ice house on the
farm. Water on the place is supplied by four Ihowving wells, which
have never yet failed. The stock consists of the ordinary farm
stock and a ine herd of Jersey cows. The products are chiefly hay,
grain, corn and potatoes. Mr. Fisher has also one of the finest

RESIDENCE-FISHER FARM.
of new buildings, inew fences and tiling have been comipleted. A
fine m11odern house has been erected a few hundred leet east of the
old Rundell farm house. The new house is a hanIdsiome large
structure, built of the very best material, and with all modern conveniences. The interior woodwork is of natural white pine, oiled
and polished. The house is heated by hot air furnace, lighted with




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

garden patches to be found in this county. Everything on this
place is carried on in a syvstemnatic manner on an extensive scale.
Mr. Albert C. Fisher, son of -MAr. XM. M. Fisher, has the management of the farm. Albert was born in Detroit: married in 1871 to
Miss Frances Guerin. and has six daughters and four sons-one
daughter and one son being dead.
TANGLEWOOD FARM,
Charles Stinchfield, Owner.
THIS BEAUTIFUL FARM          is located on the Detroit and
Pontiac road. three and one-half miles nortIvhwest of Birminghanm.
The farm consists of two hundred and eighty-six acres of beautiful
rolling land, all under a high state of cultivation. Tanglewood
Farm  was originally three farms, known as the old Patchett,
Crofoot and   Ha-german  farms. Mr. Charles Stinchfield, the
RESIDENCE-TANGLEWOOD FARM.
present owner, purchased these farms about two years ago, uniting
them  in  one largcre surpassingly  beautiful estate. From  the
timne Mr. Stinchield secured possession until the present tiine
he has been improving and beautifying the place. He has spared
neithier time, trouble nor expense in making Tanglewood Farm
one of the most productive, as well as one of the most delightful
country places in this part of the state. Mr. Stinchfield has thoroughly tiled and drained the farm, built new fenices, remodeled the
old and built new barns, erected a handsome house, and beautified
the grounds. By drainage he has redeemed a great deal of land
ning stream one and a half miles long. There is also a small lake
surrounded by a beautiful grove on the farm, quite near the house.
This is one of the loveliest spots imaginable. The waters are clear
and smooth as glass, and the heavy shadows of the overhanging
trees reflected in the mirror-likl<e surface present a picture that must
be seen to be fully -appreciated. The house stands upon a knoll of
ground at an elevation of about fifty feet from the immediate surrounding country. It is modern in every respect and has all the

of the house, and as one stands upon it and gazes off over the land
the scene is simply grand. The rolling green fields remind one of
the huge billows of the deep, only it is infinitely more beautiful.
Surely, Mr. Stinchfield possesses a keen conception of the beauties
of nature, to have secured such a delightful place for a home. Mr.
Stinchfield takes an active interest in everything about the place.
He has planned everything to secure comfort and produce the best
results. A large tank, capable of holding one thousand barrels of
water, located on the top of a high hill, supplies water with a
pressure to all parts of the house and barns. Water is pumped
into the tank by means of a five-horse power electric motor, which
also supplies power for running a small grist mill, lathe and other
machinery. There is also an ice house and a well-equipped blacksmith and carpenter shop on the farm. In addition *to this, there
are large hay, grain, cattle and horse barns, two tenant houses and
a new and neat house for the superintendent. The products of the

SMALL LAKE-TANGLEWOOD FARM.
farm are hay, grain, corn, potatoes, fruits, etc. A large number of
horses, cattle, sheep and hogs are the pride of their owner. Shetland ponies, with single and double turnouts, are kept for the children to drive. The practical work of the farm is under the direction
of Mr. Stinchfield's able superintendent, Mr. Jasper Nevins. The
Detroit and Pontiac electric cars run directly in front of the farm
every thirty minutes, affording opportunity to reach the city at any
time. Mr. Stinchfield was born in Lincoln, Me., where he spent
his early boyhood. When a young man he came to Michigan and
engaged in the occupation of timber land exploring. His success
in this line soon enabled him to engage in the lumber business, in
which he has continued up to the present time.
MEADOW SPRING FARM,
Messrs. Frank and Nathan Herbison, Owners.
MEADOW     SPRING FARM is one of the prettiest farms in
this vicinity. It is located two miles north of Birmingham, on
the town-line road, and contains ninety-five acres of fine farming

BARN SCENE-TANGLEWOOD FARM.
that was formerly a dismal swamp. The farm. is watered by a runconrveniences of a city home. The rooms are all large, airy and
beautifully furnished. A wide veranda extends around three sides

BARN SCENE-MEADOW SPRING FARM.
land. The land is beautifully rolling and of a gravelly loam soil.
Messrs. Herbison purchased this farm some eleven years ago and
have been iml3roving it ever since, until now it is in the high



BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

est state of cultivation. The buildings consist of a large farm
house and hay, grain and stock barns. A branch of the River
Rouge runs through the farm, supplying water for the stock at all
times. The house is situated on a hill, surrounded by fine shade
trees, and commands a fine view of the surrounding country. The
products of the place are of all kinds of farm produce which are
raised in abundance. One of the special features of the farm is a
splendid herd of thoroughbred Red Polled cattle, including a registered Red Polled bull. These cattle are of the hornless variety
and are noted for the quantity and richness of their milk. In addition to this herd, the ordinary farm stock of horses, sheep and hogs
are kept. Mr. Frank Herbison was born in Troy and Mr. Nathan
Herbison in Royal Oak. Both are unmarried and have followed
the occupation of farmers all of their lifetime.
OUTLOOK FARM,
Frank P. German, Owner.
OUTLOOK FARM is situated two miles west of Birmingham, on the Franklin road, and consists of eighty and 8o-ioo
acres of fine farming land of a slightly rolling nature. The soil is
a mixture of clay loam. Mr. German purchased this farm five years

the Parks and Everts farms, of whom Mr. Hunt purchased. The
farm is all improved, drained and tiled. The land has been fertilized
to a high degree. Mr. Hunt has made many improvements on
the place. He has lately built a mammoth new barn, new fences,
and will soon erect a fine new house. There are two flowing wells
on the place, which supply plenty of good water. The buildings
consist of a house and three hay, grain, horse and cattle barns. The
products are the usual farm produce. Besides the regular farm
stock, Mr. Hunt keeps a large herd of cows and runs a first-class
dairy. Mr. Hunt was born in Groveland. Oakland county, and
has always been a farmer. He has been on his present farm sixteen
years, was married twenty-six years ago to Miss Jennie Farrand,
and has one son.
GILBLRT LAKE FARM,
Mrs. Ellen F. Peabody, Owner.
THE PEABODY FARM          is one of the best known farms
about Birmingham. It was formerly the old Trowbridge Farm.
and is located three miles northwest of Birmingham, and contains
one hundred and eighty-six and a half acres of flat land, with about
twelve or fifteen acres of the waters of Gilbert Lake. The farm is
BARN SCENE-PEABODY FARM
a particularly fertile one, and is as handsome as it is good. The
house stands on the highlands near the lake, and the view from
it over the cultivated fields down to the sloping lake-side is
a very pretty one. The buildings comprise a good farm house,
hay, grain, horse and cattle barns, tool and ice houses. Every kind
of farm products are raised, and the fruit orchard is particularly
fine. Considerable stock is kept, the fields adjoining the lake being
first-class pasture. Mrs. Peabody does not reside on the farm, but
makes her home in Birmingham. The farm is under the careful
supervision of Mr. William Brooks, who has been very successful
with it.
PARKER FARM,
Asher B. Parker, Owner.

RESICENCE-CUTLCCK FARM.
ago from Mr. Dewey, and has made great improvements on it.
He has erected a fine new house, rebuilt the barns, built new fences
and drained and tiled the place. The house stands on a rising
piece of ground and the splendid view from it gives the farm its
name. The products are general farm products, and the stock is
of the usual farm stock. Mr. German was born at Franklin arnd
has always farmed. He was married in 1876 to Miss Emily Durkee,
and has two daughters and one son.
WALNUT RIDGE FARM,
William H. Hunt, Owner.
WALNUT RIDGE FARM           contains one hundred acres of
splendid farming land, and is situated one and a half miles south of
Birmingham, on the Detroit and Pontiac road. Part of the land
I

BARN SCENE-WALNUT RIDGE FARM.
in this farm is very rolling and a part quite level. The soil is a
clay and gravelly loam. This farm was originally two farms
RESIDENCE-PARKER FARM.
THE PARKER FARM is situated two and one-fourth miles
south of Birmingham, on the Detroit and Pontiac road. The farm




BIRMINGHAM, ITS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

consists of one hundred and forty-eight acres of level land. The
land is all improved, tiled and drained. The soil is a black loam
and very productive. The buildings consist of a fine brick house,
hay and grain barn, horse and carriage barn, and two large sheds.
A large windmill supplies the house and barns with water. The
house is finely situated on the corner at the junction of two
roads, and is surrounded by a large number of fine evergreen,
spruce and maple trees, making a very pleasing picture. All of
the general farm products are raised, and besides the ordinary farm
stock there is a fine herd of Jersey cows on the place. Mr. Parker
was born in Sangerfield, N. Y., and has lived on his present farm
for the extraordinary long period of fifty-five years. He was married in 1839 to Miss I-Iarriet N. Castle, and has two sons and five
daughters.
OAK GROVE FARM,
John H. Snow, Owner.
OAK GROVE FARM, owned by Mr. John H. Snow, is situated two and a half miles northeast of Birmingham, on the town
line road. Mr. Snow was born in Birmingham and attended school
there until he was thirteen years of age. He has always followed
the occupation of a farmer and received his first training as such
RESIDENCE-OAK GROVE FARM.
on the Fisher farm, where he remained ten years. He went
on his present farm in 1865. His farm was small when he started,
but he gradually added to it until now    he has an extensive
farm of two hundred and thirty-five acres. His present farm was
formerly the old Gillitt and Baldwin farms, which he has combined. The soil is a gravelly loam and the land rolling. Living

springs feed a running stream which flows through the farm. The
farm is all improved and under a high state of cultivation. A nice
large frame house, a nice stone tenant house, three hay and grain
barns, horse and carriage barn constitute the buildings on the place.
The farm is very productive and yields an abundance of crops. The
stock consists of horses, cattle, sheep and hogs. Mr. Snow has
also some thoroughbred red polled cattle. He was married thirty
years ago to Miss Emma E. Miller, and has one daughter.
ERWIN FARM,
Richard Erwn, Owner.
THE ERWIN FARM is situated just one-fourth mile southwest of Birmingham, on the Southfield and Village Line roads.
The farm contains eighty acres of highly improved farming land,
slightly rolling and of a gravelly loam, with a clay sub-soil. This
farm is one corner of a section of land, and is finely located. Mr.
Erwin  has just completed a fine new     house, which is a
great improvement to the place. Mr. Erwin has also made:  - -  -;---------  -   -  -.~-r-.--~--,

RESIDENCE-ERWIN FARM.
other improvements on the farm, such as building new fences, rebuilding the barns, and doing an extensive lot of tiling. A windmill supplies a large tank with water, which is piped to the house
and barns. The stock on the farm is of the usual kind, and the
products are of the general order, including a well-kept dairy, from
which a quantity of milk is sold. Mr. Erwin was born in Southfield
and has lived on his present farm fourteen years. He was married
fourteen years ago to Miss Flora E. Bassett, and has one daughter
and one son.




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PRESS OF
THE WOLVERINE PRINTING COMPANY,
DETROIT, MICHIGAN.