EVA~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ mom~~~~~~~~~ Hom. SOM~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ,VW 11 K I, V, I. I 'I L' -,Ir I I I,, f I I t I I I ~// J/ - ' /z ') I 6 //////. H ISVTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS Nvii I Cl~ IF-1 I G~ -2A. I (WITH AN APIENI)IX -HISTORY OF LOWELL, MICHIGAN) BY ALBERT BAXTER NEW YORK AND GRAND RAPIDS MUNSELL & COMPANY, PUBLISHERS 1891 ACKNOWLEDGMENT 1974 This reproduction of Albert Baxter's History of the City of Grand Rapids is the result of a long and concerted effort by the Grand Rapids Historical Society. It brings to fruition their desire to provide accurate and concise information about Grand Rapids. Baxter's is a treasured classic and can be relied upon for its accuracy and comprehensiveness. May Albert Baxter be long remembered for his monumental contribution to the citizens of Grand Rapids. DEDIOAT ON, 0 FI'J. -He IE6 ~d?0f, tl2e krime of L2e Firz-t v/c-ldir4 ir2 Grar2 oarais, arni 0ol1 TarPViVor- of Lt2c family of Jocl Gaild Ute rior2eer; Lo Lte rpTier2lt umrViVo0r an2 G2ceenr2ar2t: of L1e PDexep Colony anJ L[e otLerz rioreer Tt2lwer.; Lo tv2 me2mkerz of tl OlI feiGer2tL WoeiacLior2 of ILe Grar2d!iVer Valley, \Ar2d to tL2 Vtbcar2 of Lfe War- forP Le dr2ior2 v/!o made To r2ole a recorgd ir2 l2e ea%.?e of L:eir ecour2rPy, tl2i Volume i? Pr^ecltfullyr Pa e rVercItly ir2erikeGd ky 6+HE dUBtHOR. EDITOR'S PREFACE. PREFATORY INTRODUCTION is usually a valuable part of the book for which it is written; yet a long one is liable to prove so much labor.f*(@\l wasted. Many readers pass it by in their haste to get at the. meat of the work; whereas its careful perusal may be useful as an indication of the spirit of what is to follow. This one will not be tedious, though it may be prosy. In nothing is the progress of the civilized world better illustrated than in the variety and volume of its literature. The man of old who wished his enemy would write a book had no dream of the heavily loaded shelves of the libraries of to-day. The contribution of this book is but an infinitesimal addition to the great store. Nevertheless it is written, and who so fancies the writer an enemy has the opportunity to reap whatever satisfaction there may be in criticising its faults of omission or commission, or its good points if such are found. The preparation of this work was undertaken with diffidence, and many misgivings on the part of the editor as to his ability to make it entertaining and useful to the general reader, or stufficiently comprehensive to be satisfactory, either to the public or to himself. Its value and the measure of his success remain to be tested. It has cost three years of labor and waiting; in part pleasureable and in part vexatious and tantalizing. It is now placed before its subscribers and the people of this city and valley to meet whatever judgment their good taste and intelligence may dictate. The seeker in these pages for elegance of composition will seek in vain; the writer is not master of that art; the effort has been to tell the story and set forth the facts in plain and homely phrase, that may be understood though it be not captivating. Ten chapters, filling i20 pages, are devoted wholly to what may be termed the pioneer period of this town, including the village organization. But in nearly every division of the work something more is given of early history pertaining to the subject therein treated. A multitude of lesser incidents and details might have been added, but the scope and comprehensiveness of the work, it is believed, are better served by seizing upon the more important points and events-the mile-stones and finger-posts along the historic highway. These in the two chapters of Civil Chronicles and Municipal Annals are arranged chronologically, instead of by classification. Though in some respects the latter method might have been more pleasing and satisfactory, the copious index affords at least partial compensation. Each of the special histories in this volume has a specific and peculiar value of its own. The veterans of the late war and their friends find here recognized the fact that theirs is no inconsiderable part of the historic record of this city and valley. The schools, the press, the churches, the manufacturers, the legal and medical fraternities, the bankers, the merchants, the seats here of general and local governmental affairs, official lists, improvements, railways, industries, business enterprises, associations of various kinds-all the subjects herein treated-are given more of historic attention than has hitherto been attempted in any publication. vi EDITOR'S PREFACE. The aim and effort have been to make this work authentic; one that may be relied upon for general correctness by future historians of this region. It has cost much labor and research. Some fifty thousand pages of files of Grand Rapids newspapers, covering almost the entire period from I841 to I889, have been turned and scanned, and these have been especially useful in the fixing of dates —an important consideration in a work of this character. Previous histories and sketches, public documents, papers by early residents, personal interviews and much correspondence, have been used; and great pains has been taken to sift and compare, in the effort to gain as nearly as possible the exact truth. Candor and truth and rigid impartiality have been the standards sought. Special and grateful acknowledgments are due to many who have kindly assisted in the Work. Residents of Grand Rapids, early and late, have, as a rule, been ready and courteous in responding to inquiries. Among them may be mentioned: Mrs. Harriet Burton, Mrs. Adelaide M. Henderson, Mrs. Marion L. Withey, Mrs. Toussaint Campau, Mrs. Chauncey Pelton, Jefferson Morrison, A. Hosford Smith, James A. Rumsey, Leonard Covell, W. T. Powers, C. C. Comstock, William Haldane, Aaron B. Turner, Thomas D. Gilbert, George C. Nelson, Freeman Godfrey, Benjamin F. Sliter, William N. Cook, Charles Mosely, and, for many points and suggestions, George H. White. Also should be mentioned in. the same connection the following who have passed from earth while this work was in progress: William I. Blakely, Harvey P. Yale, Thomas B. Church, Zenas G. Winsor, Charles P. Calkins and George Kendall. In the military chapters, the State compilation entitled "Michigan in the War," has been found useful, with many other sources of information. The work of special writers for this book speaks for itself: Dwight Goss upon Indian Occupation; Peter Moerdyke, D. D., in the thorough History of the Churches and kindred associations; Harvey J. Hollister on Banks and Banking; S. C. Graves, M. D., and S. G. Milner, M. D., on Medicine and Surgery, and Willard I. Brigham in the chapter on The Bench and the Bar. Harry L. Creswell is entitled to credit for painstaking and conscientious assistance in gathering material regarding the Public Schools and the Press. The illustrations and the portraits of prominent men form an interesting feature which should be appreciated by old residents and the numerous friends of the subjects of the portraits and accompanying biographies. Much pains has been taken in this part of the work. The artistic taste and skill evinced by the engravers; also by The Dean Printing and Publishing Company and the Chilver bindery establishment connected therewith, and their workmen, are worthy of special recognition. In conclusion, the editor would say that, while in a pecuniary sense his labor has been far from remunerative, the hope is indulged that it may win the appreciation and approval of its indulgent readers; that it furnishes something of value for public and private libraries; also the confident belief that it will be yet more and more valuable in the generations to come. In this thought is the ray of sunlight that has cheered him during the toil and anxiety attending the production of this volume. GRAND RAPIDS, MICH., NOV. 27, 1890. AI.BERT BAXTER. NOTE.-Errors or mistakes in a work like this are inevitable; but great care has been taken to avoid them as far as possible. By misprint on page iii, Aaron Dikeman is spoken of as "a native of Norwalk, Vt." Instead of "Vt." it should read "Ct.," or Connecticut. In the paragraph for the year I856, page 122, occurs the remark that "about twenty iron fronts were put in new blocks that season at an average cost of near $5,ooo each." In that cost store as well as front should have been included. TABLE OF CONTENTS. CHAPTER 1. Location and Surroundings.-The Name-Islands-City Site-The two Townships-Latitude and Longitude-Railroad' Lines-Geologic Features and Strata -TopographySprings and WVater Courses-Changes of Features-The River Bend-Soil and Products-Elm TreesOriginal Face of the Country-Archaeology -Indian Mound Relics-Original-Land Entries......... I-2i CHAPTER II. Indian Occupation of Western Michigan.-The Algonquins and their predecessors-The Prairie Indians-French and British Influences-Treaty Making-Indian Missions, Villages' and Chiefs-Indian Names-Ceding of Lands North of Grand River-Annual PaymentsIndian Trade-Learning Social Ways-Funeral Rites-Indian Intractability-The Indian StudentIndian Ideas of Justice-Death Penalty-An Execution-The Cruel Death by Fire-Legend of the Ottawas-The Indian at Home-Indian Agents-Indian Population............................. 22-44 CHAPTER 111. The Advent of the White Man.- Missions, Trading Posts and Early Visitors-A Whisky Trade-Rix Robinson-Louis Campau-Missionaries-Baptist Missipn-Catholic M ission- F ather R ichard................................................................... 45-53 CHXPTER IV. The Settlement-The Pioneer Colony.-The Dexter Colony-Aunt Hattie's Story-Death in the Woods-LPioneer Dwelling House-Prospect Hill-The First Half YearJoel Guild's Letter-The Guild Family-Hosts and Helpers-The Pioneer Cluster-Some Callers --- Speculation-Early Marriages and Births-First Funeral of a White Man................... 54-62 CHXPTER V. Incidents and Reminiscences.-Beginnings of Three Western CitiesGetting Lost in the Woods-Wild Animals-An Unfortunate Cow-Bagging a Bear-A Little CycloneA Rescue from the Flood-A ShouldVr-load of Pork-A Journey in the Woods-Frugal Fare-Father Viszoczky Snow Bound................................................................. 63-68 CHXPTER VI. Early Descriptive Sketches.-The Rochester of Michigan-John Ball's Narrative-Grand River Valley in I837-Village and Valley Ten Years Afterward................ 69-80 CHAPTER VII. Outline Sketch-Colonial, Territorial, State and Local.-Governors Under French and English Rule-The Northwest Territory-Michigan Territory and-GovernorsState of Michigan-Governors, Members of the Legislature, and Members of Congress from Grand Rapids and Vicinity-Formative Carving-Kent County and Township.........................81-84 CHXAPTER VIII. Beginnings in the Two Townships.-Grand Rapids-Town Meetings - Change of Name-Town Officers from Beginning to I85o-Walker Township-Officers to 850....................................................................................85-88 CHAPTER IX. The Village of Grand Rapids.-Incorporation-Prominent Events of the First Few Years-Speculation and "Wildcats"-Revulsion of 1837-Freshet of 1838-The Hard Winter-First Murder Trial-First Steamboats-Monroe Street in I845-Early Church BuildingBridge Street Bridge-Death by Fall from a Steeple-Coming of the Holland Colony-Record of Chief Events- Village Legisiation- Village Offi ce rs,................................................ 89-97 CHXPTER X. Enterprising Pioneers-Who Some of Them Were and What They Did. — Personal Sketches of a Large Number of Early Residents.....................98-120 CHAPTER XI. The Civil Chronicle-Events of Forty Years. —Chronological-First Menagerie-Exodus for California-River Flood of i852-Bridge Burned-Shooting of John BurkeGaslights-First Railroad Arrival-First Telegraphing -County Records Burned-Building-Enlistments for the War-Public Improvements-Salt Making-Street Cars-More Railroads-Fires of i871 -Centennial Celebration - Telephones - River Flood of I883 — Temperance Movements - Cable C a rs................................................................................. 12 I-142 CHXPTER XII. The Old Residents Association of the Grand River Valley.Organization-Change of Name-Reunions and Picnics-Membership Roll-The Junior Old Settlers.................................................................................... 43-I48 CHAPTEIR XIII. The City Charter.-Prominent Features of the Original Charter-Boundaries-Wards-The Revision of 1857-Second Revision-Inciease of Wards -Miscellaneous ProvisionsSalaries of City Officer".................................................................. 49-I53 viii TABLE OF CONTENTS. CHAPTER XIV. Municipal Innals.-Adoption of the Charter-The City Seal-The Maine Law-Liquor Agents-Street Planking-Fire Engines-First Paving-City Seal Revised-First Gas Lights-Canal Street Paved-Purchase of Cemetery Grounds-Council Room Burned-Removal-Hogs and Dogs Loose-City Sexton Appointed-Opening Ottawa Street-Military Bounty Bonds-Steam Fire Engine-Advent of Street Cars-Railroad Aid Bonds-Eight-Hour Movement-Jail Lot PurchaseStreet Lamps-Water Works-Increase of Wards-City Lot Purchased-Free Bridges-Water Works Site-Wood Pavements-The Fire Alarm-Sunday Laws-Telephone-Electric Lights-Fire Bell-The Sewer Problem-Water Mains-Street Lighting Contracts-Cable Railway Franchise-Cast-Iron Main Across the River-Killing Sparrows-Public Square Title-Regulating Saloons-Moving to New City.Hall-W ater Works-Stand Pipe-Electric Railway....................................... 154-I66 CHAPTER XV. Fourth of July Celebrations.-Independence Days from I833 to I889 -Chief Features of Public Doings.......................................................... 167-170 CHAPTER XVI. Climate-WTemperature-Storms-Floods-Rainfa ll.-Favorable Climatic Conditions-Some Extremes of Heat and Cold-Comparisons.of Seasons-Rainfall of Seven Years by Months-Average Precipitation-Notable Freshets and Storms...................... 171-173 CHAPTER XVII. Fifty=Six Winter Seasons.-The Weather in Each Winter from 1833 to i889; D escribed B riefly................................................................. I74-178 CHXPTER XVI11. The Police Department.-First Watchman-Full Organization-Chiefs of Police-Members of the Police Force- Relief and Benefit Association..................... 79-i80 CHXPPTER XIX. The Fire Department.-" The Tub" Engine-First Fire CompaniesAlert-Protection-Hook and Ladder-Another Engine —Wolverine -Hose-Early Members and Officers-Reorganization in I859-The Old Hand Engine-Fire Steamer "David. Caswell"-Present StatusThe Engine Houses-Heads of Department-The Gallant Firemen-Alphabetic Roll of MembersFirem en's Ftfnd Association............................................................. 181-187 CHAPTECR XX. Record of Important Fires.-List and Approximate Losses, by Years, From 1844 to i888 inclusive.............................................................. I88-190 CHAPTER XXI. Immigration and Nativities.-White Colonists, Where From-Proportions of Natives to Foreign Born-Irish Immigrants-Immigration Society-Hollanders-Germans-Swedes, N orwegians and Polanders............................................................... 19I-I93 CHXPTER XXII. Political Parties and Electicns.-Election in 1837-Democrats and Whigs-Procession of Voters-Cramton's Bugle-First Village Election-'The Tippecanoe CanvassLog Cabins, Hard Cider and Coon Skins-Liberty Party-1848 and i852-Free Democratic PlatformNew Departure-Republican Party Organization and First Victory-Comments of the /(jqui/'r Newspaper-Politics in the War Period-Greenback Party-Prohibition-Woman's Rights-Votes for P'resident in City and County, 1838-I888-Votes for Governor, i84i-I888-City and County Total Vote at Five Elections-Votes in the State, Thirteen Years.......................................... I94-i98 CHAPTER XXIII. Temperance and Liquors.-Early Rum Traffic-First Temperance Society-Tavern Licenses —Prohibition —The "Maine Law"-Good Templars-Temperance AgitationThe "Crusade"-From Prohibition to Taxation-Stringent Saloon Regulations-Liquor Dealers' LeagueRed Ribbon and Blue Ribbon-Changes in the Liquor Law-Trade in Liquors-Beer and BreweriesRetail and W holesale Traffi c............................................................ I99-205 CHXPTER XXIV. The Water Supply.-Springs and Brooks-Water Elevations Near the City-Grand Rapids Hydraulic Company History-Machinery, Mains and Standpipe-The City Water Works- Reservoir-Settling Basin-Standpipe —Mains-Hydrants-Cost-Artesian Wells-Public Sewerage.................................................................................. 206-213 CHAPTER XXV. Lights and Electricity.-Gas Lighting-Grand Rapids Gas Light Company — Site of Gas Works-Gas Heating-Company Officers-Electric Lights and Power-Edison Lights-Sprague Motor-Incandescent Lamps-Western Union Telegraph-G. R. & I. TelegraphPostal and United Lines-Telephone-Exchange Telephone Rooms-Acoustic Telephone...... 214-218 CHAPTER XXVI. The Public Schools.-The Pioneer Schools-District School Beginnings-First Frame School House-First Stone School House-Union School System-Grading the Schools-The Gilbert Fund -West Side Schools-Coldbrook Schools-Free Schools-Truant, Night, Ungraded and Training Schools-Board of Education-Statistics-First Woman Trustee-School Growth and Expenses-The Studies Pursued-The School Buildings in Detail, with Lists of Teachers in I888-89- Inspiectors- Teachers' Associations........................................... 219-238 CHXPTER XXVII. Xcademic, Private and Parochial Schools.-Young Ladies' School-Grand Rapids Academy-Professors Seymour and Everett-Other Early Select Schools-Mercantile and Business Academies-Swensberg's Commercial College-St. Andrews' and St. Mark's Academies- The Kindergarten- Art Schools................................................ 239-245 TABLE OF CONTENTS. CHXPTER XXVllI. Libraries, Scientific Institute, School Societies and Ladies' Literary Clubs.-Public School Library-The Ladies Take Hold-Management-How Supported-Law Library-Kent Scientific Institute-Museum-High School Societies-LyceumsHigh School Club-Ladies' Literary Club-West Side Ladies' Literary Club................. 246-253 CHXPTER XXIX. Art-Photography, Painting and Music.-r-The Daguerreotype — Ambrotype —Photography-Some of the Operators-Art Painting and Painters —Vocal and Instrumental Music —Musicians —Musical Instruments —Piano Factory,............................254-259 CHXPTER XXX. The Press of Grand Rapids.-First Newspaper-Grand River Times — Enquirer —Eagle —Herald-Morning Democrat —F. W. Ball —A. B. Turner-Albert Baxter-E. F. Harrington —E. B. Fisher —Daily Times —Evening Leader —Morning Telegram-Telegram-HeraldPress Club-Weeklies and Other Periodicals-Newspaper Epitaphs-Directories-Binderies-Booksellers and Stationers —Engravers and Electrotypers-Printing Machines-Authors and Publications...260-277 CHAPT]ER XXXI. Churches and Religious Societies.-[By PETER MOERtYKE, D.D:]Adventists-Baptists-Bible Christians-Children of Zion -Congregationalists- Disciples -Episco palians-St. Mark's-F. H. Cuming-Temple Emanuel-Evangelical Lutherans-Swedish Evangelical Mission-Free Methodists-Wesleyan Methodists-Methodist Episcopal Churches - PresbyteriansReformed Churches-Roman Catholics-Salvation Army-Spiritualists-Swedenborgians-UnitariansUnited Brethren-Universalists-Statistical Church Summary.............................. 279-351 CHAPTER XXXII. Benevolent Institutions and Organizations.- [By PETER MOERDYKE, D. D.]-U. B. A. Association-St. Mark's Home and Hospital-Home for the Aged, of the Little Sisters of the Poor-St. John's Orphan Asylum-Kent County Bible Society-Y. M. C. A.W. C. T. Unions-Woman's Home and Hospital-Theological Seminary (Holland Christian Reformed) -The Emerson, a Home for Fallen Women-Good Templars.............................. 352-361 CHAPTE R XXXIII. Public Buildings.-The U. S. Government Building.-PostofficePostmasters-Mail Carrying Service-City Free Delivery-Internal Revenue Office-Pension AgentsSoldiers' Home-Deaths of Inmates-Kent County Court House-Jail-City Hall.............. 362-383 CHAPTER XXXIV. Kent County Government.-County Seat-Sheriffs-Clerks-Registers of Deeds-Treasurers-Surveyors-Board of Supervisors-Superintendents of the Poor... 384-392 CHAPTER XXXV. The City Administration.-Common Council from 185o to 1889, Inclusive-City Controllers-Directors of the Poor-Justices of the Peace-Assessors-ConstablesCollectors-City Surveyors-Street and Highway Commissioners-Board of Public Works-Board of Review and Equalization-Board of Police and Fire Commissioners.......................... 393-404 CHAPTER XXXVI. Parks and Cemeteries.-The Ball Forty-Lincoln Park-Crescent Park and Fountain-Highland Park-Fulton Street Park-Monument Park-Other Green Spots-Soldiers' Monument-Indian Burial Grounds — First Village Cemetery-A Temporary Burial Place-Fulton Street Cemetery-Mount Calvary, St. Andrew's, Valley City, Oak Hill and Greenwood Cemeteries — Hebrew Burial Place-Care of the Cemeteries-Undertakers-Powers & Walker Casket Company................................................................................... 405-413 CHAPTER XXXVII. Salt Wells and Works.-The State Well-Lucius Lyon WellSalt Making-Several Manufacturers-Depths of the Wells-An Extinct Industry..............414-416 CHAPX TER XXXVIII. Gypsum and Plaster of Parls.-The Gypsum Beds-Extent and How Situated-Analysis-First Plaster Mill-Later Ones —The Manufacture-First Plastering and Stuccoing —Land Plaster and Stucco...................................................... 417-423 CHAPTER XXXIX. Flouring Mills, Saw Mills and Lumber -First and Later Grist Mills-Early Saw Mills-Later and Steam Saw Mills-Pine Lumber —Little Pine Timber Left-Log Running and Booming —Sash, Doors and Blinds —Some Manufacturers and Dealers in Lumber..424-437 CHXPTER XL. Foundries and Machine Shops —Iron, Brass and Other Metal Works. —Beginning of the Foundry Business —Grand Rapids Iron Works-Valley City Iron WorksWest Side Iron Works-Central Boiler Works-Michigan Iron Works —Phoenix Iron Works-Fox Machine Company-Shingle Machines —Grand Rapids Boiler Works-Shingle Mill Machinery-Buss Machine Works-Blacksmithing-Tin and Sheet Iron Ware-Galvanized Iron Work-Edge Tool Making-Gunsmithing-Railroad Car Shops —Gas Fitting and Plumbing-Special Casting-Brass and Bronze Works —Valley City File Works-Steel Wire Nails-Wood Working Machinery-Wire WorksAldine Patent Fire-Place..............................................................438-450 CHAPTER XII. Wagons, Carriages and Other Vehicles.-The Old and the New — First Cutter Making ---Early Spokeshavers-Baxter & Green's Carriage Shop —Other Early Wagon Makers —The Fitch Brothers —Harrison Wagon Factory —Heinzelmann and Others-Arthur Wood's Factory-Belknap Wagons and Sleighs-Mack's Bent Work —Anchor-Circle Wagon —Children's Carriages-Other Wagon Shops-Wheelbarrows —Co-operative Venture-Farming Implements-Bending W orks..................................................................................451-460 TABLE OF CONTENTS. CHAPTER XLII. Manufacture of Furniture and Cabinet Wares.-First Cabinet Makers-iHand Work-Haldane, Salmon, Butler, Snively, Powers, the Winchesters, Comstock and the Pullmans-Nelson, Matter & Company-Berkey & Gay-Widdicomb Furniture Company-Kent Furniture Company-Phoenix Furniture Company —W. A. Berkey Furniture Company —Worden Furniture Company —School and Office Furniture-Furniture Ornaments-Fancy Cabinet Ware-Bedsteads —Stow & Davis-Sligh Company-Clark & Hodges-Cottage Furniture-Newaygo Company — Crociett & Hoppins-Folding Bed Factory-Bed Lounges-Center Tables and Pedestals-Refrigerators-Tripods and Easels'-,Tablesand Folding Chairs —McCord & Bradfield Works-Peninsular Company-Z. E. Allen- Veneer Works-Casters-Associated Furniture Makers-Bissell Carpet SweepersBrushes-Brooms-Chair Making-Grand Rapids Chair Company-Rattan Chairs —Wolverine Chair Company-Upholstering —Parlor Furniture-Wood Ornaments-Excelsior — Mattresses -Veneer Specialties-Second Hand Furniture Trade.................................................... 46i -482 CHXPTER XLIII. Industrial Enterprises Not Elsewhere Classifled.-Wool Manufacture-Tailoring-Millinery-Dress Making-Shirts and Underwear-Watches and Jewelry-Carriage and House Painting and Decorating-Lime_ and Cement-Brick, Tile and Sewer Pipe-MarbleStorle Cutting-Pottery-Saleratus-Soap and Candles-Bakeries-Confectioners-Leather-Boot and Shoe Making-Felt Boots-Saddle, Harness and Trunk Making-Leather Belting and Hose-Cooperage-Barrel Works-Staves-Boxes-Pails and Tubs-Bowls, Clothespins, Faucets-Wooden ShoesCigars and Tobacco-Inventions-Fire Ladder and Truck-Dust Blowers-Base Ball and Croquet SetsPortable Houses-Boat Building-Show Cases-Hoop Skirts-Saw Works-Oil-Wooden Pumps-Billiard Tables-Bottling-Gravel and Felt Roofs-Wood-Work Shop-Aldine Fire-Place-Flavoring Extracts-Ice and Fuel-Spices and Other Condiments-Grease Refinery-Alabastine-Diamond Wall F inish............................................................................... 483-504 CHXPTER XLIV. Farm, Garden and Stock.-Agricultural Beginnings-Farms and Products-Trad'e in Grain and Seeds-Nurseries-Agricultural, Porological and Horticultural SocietiesKent CouWty Agricultural Society-Western Michigan Agricultural and Industrial Society-West Michigan Farmers' Club-Horse Association-Poultry and Pet Stock-Some Personal Sketches of Farmers................................................................................... 505-514 CHXPTER XLV. Navigation.-River Channel-Early Boating-Canal at the Rapids-River and' Harbor Appropriations-Survey anxd Report-Efforts for Ship Communication-List of River Steamers, Chronological-Port of Delivery-Consulship-Byating at Reeds Lake..............515-522 CHXPTER XLVI. Early Highways, Stages and Plank Roads.-Early Wagon Roads-Days of Stages- Stage Incidents-Kalamazoo Plank Road............................523-526 CHXPTER XLVII. Railways.-Railroad Beginnings-First Passenger Train in AmericaEfforts at Grand Rapids-Detroit, Grand Haven and Milwaukee Railway-Lake Shore and Michigan Southern-Pioneer Passenger Car of the West-Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad-Grand River Valley Railroad-Chicago and West Michigan -Grand Rapids, Lansing and Detroit -What Railroads Have Done-Railway Mileages in the State (I838 to i889)- Facilities and Freights-Express Lines.................................................... 527-539 CHXPTER XLVIII. Street Railways and Gravel Roads.-Street Railway Company-When Cars Started-Growth-Reeds Lake Electric-North Park-Valley City Street and Cable Railway-Gravel Roads-Reeds Lake Avenue-Grand Rapids and Walker-Alpine-Plainfield AvenueGrandville-Division Street-Canal Street to Plainfield-West Bridge and Allendale......540-543 CHXPTER XLIX. Bridges Xcross Grand River.-Days of Ferrying-First Bridge at Ada-Bridge Street Bridge (three times rebuilt)-Leonard Street-Pearl Street-Fulton Street-Sixth Street- Gravel Road-Railroad Bridges................................................... 544-547 CHXPTER L. Village Itoads and City Streets.-Indian Trails-Pioneer Wagon RoadsFirst Village Roads-Laying Out Streets-Their First Condition-Further Platting-Grading, Cutting and Filling-Number and Length of Streets-Street Numbering-Pavements-Sidewalks-Street Names and Locations-Derivation of Street Names-Changes of Street Names........................ 548-558 CHAPTER LI. Entertainment.-Early Taverns-Eagle Hotel-Bridge Street House-The National-Rathbun House-Michigan House-Other Inns, Early and Late-Livery-Hack and Omnibus-Transfer-Social-Early Recreations- Theaters and Assembly Halls-Tavern Ball Rooms-Irving, Concert, Collins and Sons of Temperance Hall-Germania, Metropolitan and Several Others-Hartman,'s-Squier's Opera House-Powers' Grand Opera House-Redmond's Grand Opera House-Science H all- Lyceum Theater................................................................... 559-570 CHXPTER Ll1. Military-State and Local Milltia. -Martial Spirit-The Mexican War-Early Citizen Soldiery-Three Home Companies in the State Militia-Their Call to Arms-The Soldiery Since the War-Military Reunions-State Troops-Grand Rapids Companies.........571-574 CHAPTER LIII. Grand 'Rapids and Kent County in the War for the Union.The Alarm-The Rush to Arms-Filling a Regiment-"The Boys are Marching"-The "Old Third" Starts-Patriotic Boys-The Service in the Field-First, Third, Fifth, Eighth, Thirteenth, Fourteenth (Pat and his pig), Twenty-First, Twenty-Fifth and Twenty-Sixth Infantry-Engineers and Mechanics TABLE OF CDNTENTS. xi First, Second, Third (a Texas incident), Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Tenth Cavalry-Heads oi Staff with Each Regiment Mentioned-Batteries-Sharp Shooters..............75-599 CHAPTER LIV. Volunteers and Commissaion.-Grand Rapids Volunteers; List Alphabetically Arranged-Commissioned Officers, from Grand Rapids and Kent County, Alphabetic, with brief military history of each.......................................6oo-6I3 CHXPTER LV. Fatalities in the Xctive Service.-Register of Soldiers,from Kent County, who gave their lives for their country during the War of the Rebellion................614-621 CHXAPTER LVI. Early Marriages, and Deaths of Village Residents.-Weddings Among the Villagers-Golden Weddings of Grand Rapids People -Register of Deaths of Persons who Resided at Grand Rapids in the Village Days...622-628 CHXAITER LVII. Orders, Societies and Clubs.-Masonic Bodies-Knights TemplarEastern Star-Scottish Rite-Saladin Temple-Independent Order of Odd Fellows-Patriarchal CirclePatriarchs Militant-Knights of Pythias- Knights of Honor-Red Men —B'Nai B'Rith —lks-Hepcasophs-Knights of the Golden Eagle-Macabees-Royal Arcanum-Sons of Malta-Hibernians —, Chosen Friends-Railway Orders-National Union-Good Templars-G. A. R.-Social, Literary and Aid Societies-Sporting Societies —Building, Leasing, Loan and Other Business Associations-Labor Organizations............................................................................ 629-640 CHXPTER LVIII. Improvements and Progress.-The Past and the Present-Retr0 -spective-Transition-Beginnings-Water Power, East and West Sides-Changes at Pearl Street-Filling the Navigable Channel-Campau Place-Building and General Improvements-Reflections.....6,4-644 CHXPTE R LIX. Trade, Commerce, Business Xgencies and Contractors.Real Estate-Prices at Different Times-Dealers and Brokers-Mercantile Trade —Some Village Stores and Early Traders-Wholesaling-Partial List of Present Houses-Export and Home CommerceFreights-Rates by Water in I844-Board of Trade-General Business Summary-Insurance-Builders and Contractors......................................................................... 645-664 CHXPTER LX. Meats and Marketing.-Beginnings and Growth of the Trade in Meats and other Table Supplies................................................................... 665-666 CHXPTER LXI. Banks and Banking-[BY HARVEY J. HOLLISTER.]-Usefulness of Ban-ksEarly Experiences-The National Banking System-Early Michigan Banks- Grand River Bank and Peoples' Bank-Village and Private "Shinplasters"-"Wildcat" Banking-Private Banking and Exchange-Some of the Operators-Welles, Ball, Ledyard, Aldrich and others-Histories of the Present Banks of the City, National and Exchapge-Michigan Trust Company-The Clearing House-Business by Months in i888 and I889.....667-690 CHXPTER LXII. Medicine and Surgery. [PART I BY SCHUYLER C. GRAVES, M. D.]Medical Pioneers and Early Practice-Topography-Geology-Sanitation —Water Supply-Prevalent Diseases in Pioneer and Modern Times-Medical Societies, Homes and Hospitals- Board of HealthCity Physicians-Brief Biographic Sketches. [PART II BY SAMUEL G. MILNER, M. D.] HomeopathyOrigin and Nature of the System-Early Homeopathic Practitioners-Homeopathic Societies-Contention for Admission to Practice in the Hospitals-Biographic.......................... 69I-726 CHAiPTER LXIII. Dentistry - Drugs - Independent Doctors.-Dental SurgeryTooth Pulling and Filling-First Dentist Here-Later Prominent Ones-Dental Society of Grand Rapids-Trade in Drugs and Medicines-Prominent Druggists-Independent or "Irregular" DoctorsBotanic School-Water Cure-Clairvoyance-Magnetism or Electricity....................... 727-729 CHAXPTER LXIV. The Bench and the Bar.-[BY WILLARD I. BRIGHAM.]-The LawSupreme Court-District Courts-Chancery-Circuit Courts-Prosecuting Attorneys for Kent CountyJustices' Courts-Probate Court, Judges and Registers-Mayor's and Recorder's Courts-Superior Court-Police Court-City Attorneys-County Courts-U. S. Court Officers in Succession-Law Library-Bar Association-The Bench-The Bar-Special Mention of Prominent Lawyers-Roll of Kent County Attorneys.................................................................. 730-760 CHXIPTER LXV. Buildings and Homes.-Pioneer Log Houses-First Frame BuiidingsFirst Stone and Brick Buildings-Pictures of Early Buildings-Progress in Building-Style and Architecture-Illustrations of Fine Modern Residences and the Michigan Masonic Home........ 761-788 CHXPTER LXVI. Statistics.-Tables of Population, City, County, State, and Townships of Kent County-Assessed City Valuation, by Wards for a Series of Years-Taxation by Wards-Internal Revenue from I863 to I889-Fire Losses, Eighteen Years.................................. 789-793 ADDENDUM.-A few Late Improvements-r-Fair Ground Change-Street Railway ConsolidationPaving Canal Street with Asphalt........................................................ 793 XPPENDIX. History of Lowell, Kent County, Michigan-Township and Vil, lage.-Prefatory Remarks-Situation and Topography-Indian Occupants-Settlement-Town Organization-Township Officers-Agricultural-Fruit Culture-Lowell Village-Village Officers-Church Societies-Schools-Banking-Hotels-Newspapers-Water Works-Lighting —Manufactures-MillsTrade-Professions-Biographic Sketches................................................. 707-8r2 EXTENDED BIOGRAPHIES. PAGE. Adsit, Allen C...................... 750 Aldrich, Moses V............................ 392 Alger, Russell A............................. 589 B all John................................... 112 Ball, Sam uel B.............................. 656 Ball, Sidney S............................... 564 Baldwin, Simeon L.................. 489 Baxter, Albert.............................. 266 Beckwith, W illiam G......................... 59I Belknap, Charles E.......................... 456 Benjamin, David M.......................... 435 Berkey, W illiam A........................... 468 Bissell, M elville R......................... 474 Bliss, D. W illard, M. D..................... 699 i Blodgett, Delos A............................ 686 Boland, Joseph D............................ 373 Botsford, Alva H., M. D...................... 720 Briggs, Edward L............................ 51I Briggs, George G............................ 594 Butterfield, Roger W......................... 755 Campau, Louis...............Portrait Frontispiece Caulfield, John.............................. 649 Champlin, John W., LL. D................... 732 Comstock, Charles C......................... 478 Converse, James W.......................... 421 Curtiss, John L.............................. 397 Davis, Horace W............................ 539 Denison, W illiam C.......................... 460 Dunham, W illiam........................... 687 Durfee, Allen....................... 4 12 Foster, W ilder D............................ 444 Fralick, Henry....................... 68o Fox. Charles............................ 432 Fox, E. Crofton......................... 430 Friant, Thomas.............................. 429 Garlock, Alfred, M. D........................ 704 Gilbert, Thomas D........................... 679 Godfrey, Freeman........................... 418 Godwin, G. Chase........................... 749 Gray, George................................ 745 Harrison, William....................... 454 Hatheway, R. C............................. 648 Henderson, Charles L., M. D................. 706 Holden, Ebenezer G. D...................... 737 Hollister, Harvey J.......................... 675 Holmes, John T............................. 743 Houseman, Joseph........................... 484 Houseman, Julius........................... 682 Innes, W illiam P............................ 586 Ives, Harry H.............................. 662 Johnson, George K., M. D.................... 708 K(ellogg, Orson C............................ 650 Kendall, George............................. 68i Kendall, John............................... 653 Killean, John................................ 400 Lemoin, Henry.............................. 187 PAGE. Lemon, Samuel B............................ 657 Long, James W.............................. 598 Lyon, Morgan (Vergennes).................... 8oi McCarty, Charles (Lowell).................... 803 M cConnell, John............................ 446 M cCoy, Daniel.............................. 437 McVean, D. C. (Bowne)..................... 802 M atheson, Alexander......................... 490 Mathewson, Isaac B......................... 664 M atter, E lias............................... 464 M eigs, Arthur................................ 651 M iller, Jam es................................ 739 Moerdyke, Peter, D. D....................... 324 M orris, Robert W........................... 646 Nelson, Ezra T.............................. 463 Norris, Lyman D............................ 752 O'Brien, Thomas J........................... 757 Peirce, Peter R. L........................... 384 Platt, Alonzo, M. D.......................... 711 Post, Leander J. (Lowell)..................... 799 Powers, W illiam H.......................... 441 Powers, W illiam T..................... 440 Proctor, William (Lowell)................... 799 Reed, Thomas E............................. 513 Reynolds; Herbert M........................ 502 Richmond, W illiam A....................... 545 Richter, Ft. Rev. Henry J................... 341 Sears, W illiam.............................. 492 Shanahan, M aurice......................... 4 6 Shelby, W illiam R.......................... 534 Skinner, Adolphus L........................ 391 Smiley, M itchell J.......................... 759 Smith, Henry S.............................. 396 Sm ith, Israel C.............................. 578 Smith, Reuben H.......................... 650 Spring, Henry.................... 654 Stebbins, Andrew J.......................... 385 Steketee, John.................... 521 Stocking, Billius............................. 390 Strahan, John T............................. 768 Sullivan, Simon......................... 666 Sweet, M artin L............................. 675 Swensberg, Conrad G....................... 242 Thayer, George W........................... 379 Turner, Aaron B........................... 265 Uhl, Edwin F.............................. 75I W alker, Charles I............................ 382 W aters, Elijah )......................... 593 W atson, Arhasa B............................ 433 W eston, Isaac M......................... 397 W hite, George H............................ 419 W hite, T. Stewart.......................... 428 W insor, Jacob W........................... 99 W insor, Zenas G............................ 98 W ithey, Solomon L.......................... 747 INDEX OF BIOGRAPHIES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. SMALL WOOD CUT PORTRAITS. iill PAGE. Bremer, Henry............................. 119 Burton, Barney............................... 6i Burton, Mrs. Harriet......................6x Clark, James................................ 422 Covell, Leonard............................. Everett, Franklin............................ 240 G uild, Joel.................................. 58 PAGE Hatch, Damon............................. 117 Lyon, Truman H........................... 415 Page, Abel................................. o Page, Loren M.............................. 07 Peirce. John W.............................. 105 Smith, Canton............................... 360 Smith, Thomas........................... 215 ILLUSTRATIONS-MISCELLANEOUS. Almy, John-Residence............... 764 Anderson, Ebenezer-Residence........... 765 Ball, John-Residence....................... 72 Baptist Church, Fountain street............... 280 Baptist Church, Wealthy avenue.............. 284 Bissell, Mrs. Anna-Residence............ 783 Bowne, A J.-Residence..................... 770 Calkins Law Office.................. 762 Caulfield, John-Residence............. 775 Centennial Arch, Campau place...............132 Centennial Arch, West Bridge street........... I33 City Hall............................. 379 City Seal, first............................... 154 City Seal, present...........................1 56 Collins Hall Block........................... 767 County Court House.......................... 373 County Offices............................. 372 Crescent Park Fountain...................... 406 Curtiss, John L. -Residence.............. 769 Daniels, G. W.-House................... 764 Disciples' Church.......................... 293 Dunham, William-Residence........... 777 Durfee, Allen-Residence..................... 77I Elms in Bostwick street..................... xI Engine House No. 4.......................... 85 Fifth Reformed Church, first................. 33r Fifth Reformed Church, new................ 332 First Passenger Railway Train in America..... 527 First Reformed Church...................... 322 First trader's cabin........................... 47 Fourth Holland Christian Reformed Church.... 337 Fourth Reformed Church.............. 330 Fox, E. C. and Charles-Residence.......... 774 Foot of Monroe street in I870................. 643 G. A. R. Badge.............................. 635 German Lutheran Church................... 303 Gilbert, Thomas D.-Residence............... 784 Government Building (Postoffice)........... 364 Haifley, Peter-Residence................... 773 Haldane, Wm.-Early residence........... 763 Harrison, William-Wagon Factory........... 453 Harrison, William-Residence............ 785 Hatch, Damon-House (J. D. Utley's residence). 765 H otel Derby................................. 786 Joy Memorial M. E. Church..................339 Kendall, George-Residence.................. 775 Kent Book Store and Grand River Bank....... 762 Ladies' Literary Club House.................. 253 Lyman House, early........................ 762 Lyon, T. H.- House......................... 765 McConnell, John-Residence................ 647 Map, City (condensed).......................Front Map, Mission reserve........................ 53 M ap, railroads.............................. 4 Map, Village in i836........................Front Mason, C. G.-House.......................763 Matter, Elias-Residence..................... Michigan Masonic Home..................... Michigan Soldiers' Home..................... Morris, Mrs. R. W.-Residence............... Morrison Scrip, fac simile.................... Morton House............................... National Hotel, old.......................... Northrop, N. W.-Residence................ Octagon, Gravel House....................... Old hand fire engine......................... Old Yellow Warehouse....................... Park Congregational Church.................. Pearl Street Bridge and Island No. i........... Perkins, Gaius-Residence................... Philbrick House (F. Godfrey residence)........ Pike, Abram W.-Residence................. Pioneer Railway Passenger Car of the West.... Printing Presses, early....................... Printing Presses, modern................. 276, Prospect Hill and Pioneer house.............. Railway Coach and Engine early............. Relics from Indian mounds................... St. James' Church........................... St. Mark's Hospital.......................... School Building, Central..................... School Building, South Division............... School Building, Straight Street............... School Building, Turner Street................ Second Reformed Church..................... Second Street M. E. Church.................. Shelby, Wm. R.-Residence.................. Smith Memorial Church...................... Soldiers' Monument.......................... South Congregational Church................. South Side Monroe Street, i858............... Squier's Opera House........................ Steam fire engine, first....................... Stockwell, A. E.-Residence.................. Swedish Lutheran Church..................... "Tanner" Taylor residence, old............... Temple Emanuel............................ Tufts, Charles W.-Residence................ Turner, E. H.-House....................... U. B. A. Home.............................. Universalist Church.......................... Utley, J. D.-Residence (Damon Hatch House). View in i832, pencil sketch................... Water Works Reservoir..................... Water Works Settling Basin.................. Watson, A. B.-Residence................... Westminster Presbyterian Church............. White, T. Stewart-Residence................ White, Thomas W.-Residence............... Widdicomb, Harry-Residence................ Williams, H. R.-House..................... 782 788 367 778 67i 56I 762 776 766 x83 76T 287 643 777 763 764 530 275 277 56 529 17 343 696 231 233 238 236 327 338 771 292 408 291 767 569 I84 773 305 763 301 787 765 353 349 788 52 210 209 772 319 780 781 779 766 NObTH I y11 / 4 '/ s rtrEI V.ly//~. I. ^ u * ^ i ^ ~ Dwfflf/bz ~ j s rwwn I' ~- Swr^ srzifEFT SOUTH THE VILLAGE IN 1836-SHOWING EAST BANK OF THE RIVER AND THE ISLANDS OPPOSITE THE NOW CENTRAL PART OF THE CITY-FROM THE ORIGINAL PLAT NORTH H V) 3 a?: SOUTH THE CITY-SKELETON MAP-THE CIRCLES (~ MILE APART) INDICATE DISTANCES FROM THE FOOT OF MONROE AND CANAL STREETS. CH APTER I. LOCATION AND SURROUNDINGS. 'T I, NAMI E. PRIOR to I821 this was an Indian country wholly, an(l from that date to 1833 its character of occupancy was not changed except )y the incoming of two or three fur traders amongst thle natives, and the establishment here of a Baptist mission, connected with which were less than a dozen personl. The township, on tlle left bank of thle river, was first called Kent, in compliment to Chancellor Kent, of New York. The place, from the beginning of active settlement, does not l)oast of age —it is but fifty-six years since the first frame dwelling house was erected here. Kent township embraced a large territory at the first, nearly all that is within the county south of Grand River; and it was then a part of Kalamazoo county. The name Grand Rapids comes from the rapids of Grand River, the largest fall in that stream. Tlis name was given to the first postoffice here, in 1832; also to tlhe village incorporated in I838; but the township name Kent was given by act of the Territorial Legislature, March 7, I834, which also provided that the first election should bl)e held at the dwelling house of Joel Guild, and Kent was the town name till February 26, 1842, when by law it was changed to Grand Rapids, and the city, succeeding the village, retained tlhe latter name. The county nalie has remained unchanged from the first. AL ONG IlTHE RIVER COURSE. The City of Grand Rapids is situated in township seven north, of ranges eleven and twelve vwest, at what are called the rapids of Grand River, and occupies both sides of that stream at this point. By the course of the river channel the city is about forty and in a straight line about thirty-one miles from the mouth of the river. Grand River-the largest inland stream of the State —is navigable from its mouth to tlhe rapids for boats of between two and three feet draft. Thle rapids are not of the nature of an abrulpt leap or cataract, but have a nearly uniform descent for the distance of a little more than a mile, throulgh the central part of the city, amounting to a fall of about eighteen feet, over a limestone bed, the western outcrop of the limestone rock in this part of Michigan. The river enters the city a little east of the center of the north line; flows nearly due south, bearing but slightly to the west, for about two miles; then turns westerly in a graceful curve, making its exit in a southwesterly direction at the extreme southwestern point of the municipality. A few miles below, the river trends to a course slightly north of west, and thus on to its outlet at Grand Haven into Lake Michigan. THE ISLAN)S. Midway of the city, and well toward the foot of the rapids, when this town was located, were two small islands, directly west of where Monroe street is. The Pearl street bridge, at its east landing, comes upon the north end of them. Immediately below Fulton street and bridge was another and larger island, comprising several acres of land, and below that another, familiarly HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. called Robarge Island. These islands, in the survey, were numbered from the head, I, 2, 3 and 4. East'of the upper three was then the deeper channel of the river, and the one most used for navigation when steamboats began to run. The western channel was shallower but at least four times wider than the eastern. In the early days those islands, with their spreading elms and rich grassy verdure in the summer season, formed a handsome feature of the picturesque landscape in that part of the city. But the insatiate hand of improvement for property uses has been laid upon them; the east channel has been cut off and filled from the upper end more than half way down, the islands made part of the main land, and on them and over the old channel bed are many valuable business blocks and other structures. SITE OF THE CITY. The statutory or city charter description of the present corporation boundary line is as follows: Commencing at the northeast corner of the southeast quarter of section eighteen, in township seven north, of range eleven west; running south to the southeast corner of section thirty-one of said township; thence west, on the south line of said township, to the southwest corner of the same; thence extended on the south line of township seven north, of range twelve west, to the middle of Grand River, on section thirty-four in said last named township; thence northeasterly along the middle of Grand River to the point which intersects the north and south quarter line of section thirty-five, in said township seven north, of range twelve west; thence north along the line drawn through the center of sections thirtyfive, twenty-six and twenty-three, to the center of section fourteen, in said last named township; thence east to the place of beginning. THE TOWN ANI) ITS NEI;GHBORS. Thus the city includes the south half of section eighteen and all of sections nineteen, thirty and thirty-one in town seven north, of range eleven west; and in town seven north, of range twelve west, the south half of section thirteen; all of sections twenty-four, twenty-five and thirty-six; the southeast quarter of section fourteen; the east half of sections twenty-three, twentysix and thirty-five, and so much of section thirty-four and of the west half of section thirty-five as lies south of Grand River. Hence the city covers an area of a little more than nine square miles, equivalent to 5,760 acres, including the water surface or river. It is taken from the townships of W\alker and Grand Rapids, and is bounded north by Walker and Grand'Rapids town, east by Grand Rapids town, south by Paris and Wyoming, and west by Walker. In each of these surrounding townships, and near by, are business and industrial interests so intimately connected with those within the corporation that in a material sense they may properly be considered and treated, to some extent, as a portion of the city, in a work like this, so closely is most of that suburban territory identified with its growth and progress. On the south and west are the gypsum quarries and manufacture of their products; on the north are large factories, and the Michigan Soldiers' Home; on the east are various business properties and the Reeds Lake resorts. Taking into consideration the matter of population, of wealth, of public and educational institutions, of commercial and industrial activity and enterprise, Grand Rapids is the largest and most important of the interior cities of Michigan, and is second only to Detroit in the State. It is the "Seat of Justice" for Kent county. GEOGRAP'HICAIL P(OSITION. Reckoning from a tablet placed by engineers of the United States Government in the center of the Public Square, or Fulton Street Park, Grand Rapids is in latitude.2~ 57' 49.02" north; and in longitude 85~ 40'. 65" west from Greenwich, England, and 8 ~ 37' I3.65" west from Washington, D. C. Our time is therefore 34 minutes 28.91 seconds slower than that of Washington. In RAILROAD POINTS-GEOLOGIC FEATURES. 3 latitude we are very nearly upon a line with Portsmouth on the Atlantic coast, with the interior cities of Buffalo, Milwaukee and Madison, and midway between San Francisco and Portland on the Pacific coast side. We are but very little north of the European cities of Madrid, Rome and Constantinople. RAILROAD POINTS. Grand Rapids is the natural commercial and market town for a region of fertile and productive country with an average radius from it of about fifty miles. From this center railroads go out on nearly every principal point of the compass-ten railroad lines in as many directions. By rail the following are distances to the places named: MI I'l S. Allegan.......... 33 Big Rapids....... 65 Boston........ 736 Buffalo.......... 236 Chicago.... 1..... 182 Cincinnati......303 Detroit.......... 150 Fort Wayne...... 142 Grand Haven.... 35 Hastings......... 32 Ionia............ 34 Jackson.......... 94 Kalamazoo....... 48 Lansing.......... 72 MII.ES. Mackinaw City... 226 Milwaukee (lake). I20 Montreal......... 643 Muskegon........ 40 New York........ 682 Niagara Falls.... 228 i Owosso.......... 80 I'etoskey......... 90 Richmond, Ind... 234 Saginaw......... 113 Sturgis.......... 85 Toledo.......... 204 Toronto..... 310 Traverse City.... I4.5 is the Michigan salt group. Only the limestone and gypsum are much utilized here, of which more will be said, and some mention made of the efforts at salt production, later in this book. The river limestone was much used in building, in the earlier years of our history, and in foundation walls it is still employed to a considerable extent. It has been very valuable for lime manufacture, producing an article that is unexcelled. Good quarries of a brown colored limestone were opened near Coldbrook in 1867, which, however, proved no better than the gray, except that it gave variety in tints, for building purposes. On the west side intervals, opposite the rapids and above, the ground is well filled, and in some localities was formerly literally covered with "hardheads" or cobble stones; granite and conglomerate bowlders were also there in large quantities. Indications are that at some period vast amounts of these loose stones. were dropped from ice, or lodged at and near the rapids by the action of water. Professor J. G. Fish, in a course of lectures many years ago, said that he found, in conjunction with gypsum at the plaster beds here, clay which was identical with that which in Vermont is considered superior to the imported article for use in paper making. He asserted that it was worth more than that imported at $25 per ton, and was more valuable than the gypsum. If this hint has ever been acted upon here his estimate of the article seems not to have been verified. Prof. Fish advocated the theory that the waters of Lake Michigan once flowed into the Mississippi Valley, and those of Lake Superior toward the Polar Ocean or Hudson Bay. The overlying soil is in general good, yielding fair returns for intelligent culture and management, throughout this Grand River Valley. Of the deep well borings, the following three are selected to convey an idea as to the varieties and order of the earth and rock strata lying beneath our feet: G OLO(GIC FEATURES. Professor Alexander Wvinchell, in his geological description of Michigan, says that "the Lower Peninsula occupies the central part of a great synclinal basin, toward which the strata dip from all directions." He likens these strata to a series of shallow bowls or plates resting one within another. The inner and upper strata, the coal measures and the Parma sandstone, lie to the eastward from here. Below those is the carboniferous limestone group, which here crops out, and it includes the gypsum strata that comes close to the surface at the southwestern part of the city and in lands adjoining, where they are worked by several plaster companies. Underlying the gynsum MAP SHOWING RAILROADS CENTERING AT GRAND RAPIDS. SALT WELLS. THE STATE SALT WELL. This was bored in I838-42, and was situated at the river, south bank, about a mile below the present southwest corner of the city. Measurements were reported by Dr. Douglass Houghton, State Geologist: FEET. FEET. STRATIFICATION. 40 Alluvial soil, five feet clay, then sand and gravel. 7 47 Clay, 6'2 feet gypsum. i 48 Hard rock, said to be limestone. 13 6i Clay and slate, alternating, some hard rock in lower 4 feet. 109 170 Sand rock, hard; at 68 feet spring of brackish water; rock harder at I04 feet. 9 179 Clay and sand mixture, hard. 5 i84 Clay slate. IoI 285 Hard sand rock, then soft, cavities, profuse flow of salt water increasing. 2 287 Blue clay 20 307 Common sand rock. 24 33i Ash colored clay and sand rock. 12 343 Sand rock, hard. I30 473 Blue clay, gravel, shale, clay rock. THE LYON SALT WELL. This was above Bridge street, on the east bank of the river, and the boring was completed in the fall of I842. The record was kept by Lucius Lyon: FEET. FEET. THE STRATA. 14 Lime rock 6 20 Yellow sand rock. 2 22 Blue clay. 5 27 Coarse reddish sand rock. 47 74 Argillaceous, with gypseous strata. 7 8i Hard, sharp gritted, bluish sand rock. I9 Ioo Clay rock, indications of salt. 79 i79 Argillaceous, sandyand gypseous strata. I 80o Hard sand rock, water lime. II i9I Clay rock. I09 300 Sand rock, texture, color and compactness varied. Great spring 6f water at 2644 feet. 9 309 Clay rock with fine sand particles. 66 375 Sand rock, varied texture and compactness. 60 435 Clay and sand rock, about equal parts. II 446 Coarse, loose sand rock. i8 464 Clay rock. 3 467 Sand rock. 194 66i Chiefly clay rock. One foot sand rock at 495 feet. THE "DEEP WELL." This was sunk in i887-88. The boring starts about forty feet below the subcarboniferous lime rock which outcrops in Grand River. Following is the record of strata pierced, kept by Freeman Godfrey: uz 0 i I To, — k 0 _ri Q;4 d)X y0< 4 Ir 0 r FEET. FEET. STRATA PIERCED. io Drift of gravel, lime and light clay. ii8 I28 Gypsum and shales in layers, mixed. 17 145 Lime rock, hard and soft, thin layers. 95 240 Sand rock, light color, flowing fresh water. I9 259 Sand rock, dark, coarse, flowing fresh water. I2 27I Clay slate, blue, tough, impervious to water. I29 400 Sand rock, ash color, fine grained; water 20~ salt. 20 420 Clay slate, with pieces of hard clay rock. 36 456 Clay slate, light blue. 246 702 Clay slate, light blue, not hard, drilling dry. 10 712 Water lime rock, dark, hardest at top. I88 900 Clay slate, light blue or ash color, drilling dry. I40 1040 Clay slate, darker, harder, with hard lumps. II5 I]55 Clay slate, dark, hard, scented with gas or oil. 20 II75 Clay, deep red, not hard. 30 1205 Sand rock, small flow salt water, 80~ salom. BEDFORD j 295 I500 Clay slate, greenish blue, traces SHALE. { of gas or oil. i a1 z4 rI4 a Z >. o -; I _. -Ce 200 I700 Clay slate, darker, harder, little stronger in gas. 75 I775 Slate rock, black, hard, strong in gas or oil. 200 1975 Lime rock, drab color. 225 2200 Lime rock, dark color, gas 20S.,inflammable. 20 2220 Lime rock, dark, gas increased f till salt water drowned it. 120 2340 Lime, sand and salt rock, mixed A < strata. Drilling ended here, u. | in salt water showing a salo[ meter weight of ioo~. HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. TOPOGRAPHY. It is not easy by mere verbal description to convey a good idea of the original face of the country at Grand Rapids. The site was one of great natural beauty, charming for its great variety of features in landscape. The valley here is about one and a half miles wide, threaded by a stream near forty rods wide. On the west side, from the river back to the bluffs, an average distance of about one mile, and through the length of the city north and south, was a very nearly level plain, a large part of which was thickly strewn with granite bowlders and a profusion of cobble stone or "hard-heads." There was some undulation of surface, but no very marked unevenness. Its elevation was but ten or twelve feet above the water of the river, in the average, and the descent to the south was but slight in the distance of two miles. On the part north of Bridge street there were very few large trees at the front, but further toward the hills was in places a heavy growth of maple and elm, and a swamp a little below the general level. South of Bridge street the land was slightly rolling, and a ravine held a small stream, bringing the drainage from the northern swampy or springy grounds. This brook entered the river about midway between where are now the Bridge and Pearl street bridges. Toward the southwest corner of the city was a marsh of considerable extent, and a shallow pond. Skirting near the bluffs was an irregular depression or ravine, the bed of a brook that enters the river below the town, and into and through which, in periods of high water, there was sometimes an overflow from the river above the rapids. Near the northwest corner was a hill or ridge of coarse gravel, some forty feet high, much of which is still there. The bluffs in the distance west were a handsome range of hills, rising to a height of sixty feet or more, and shutting off the view of the country beyond. On the east side there was greater irregularity of surface, hill and dale, and many points of picturesque beauty. Next the river was a narrow border of nearly level land, varying in width from two or three rods to one-fourth of a mile. North of Bridge street this was a long, narrow, blackash swamp. Below Monroe street was a gently sloping plat, mostly dry ground but patched here and there with boggy places. Below Fulton street was a gravel and clay ridge of irregular outline, near the river, extending southward. Near the center of the town an isolated hill of very hard clay, with a steep western face, rose from a point some ten or twelve rods north of Lyon street, east of Kent street, and extended south to Monroe street. Its southern face was also a steep declivity. Its southwestern angle was less than two hundred feet from the river bank, and its highest point was near or slightly south of Pearl street, west of Ottawa. Pearl, Lyon and Ottawa streets have been cut through that clayey bank, and the last vestige of it will soon disappear. It was called Prospect Hill. Toward the east and southeast this hill sloped off gently. Between it and Division street was a depression through which ran northerly a spring brook, and near where the United States building stands was a swamp, and a pond of an acre or more in extent. THE EASTERN UPLAND. The commanding eminence upon the east side was a sand bluff with a steep western face, that still retains some of its original features, its base at an average distance of perhaps fifty rods from the river, and extending from Coldbrook on the north to beyond Fulton street on the south, a distance of more than a mile and a half. On the summit of this hill, for nearly its whole length, was a plateau, averaging but a few rods in width near the north end, but spreading out at the southeast far into the country. In some places at the summit this hill top was TOPOGRAP'HY OF THE CITY. fearly level, but for the most part was undulating and toward the edges cut by ravines leading to the lower lands. Its greatest elevation was and still is about one hundred and sixty feet above the adjacent river bed. From the summit of this hill, and also from the hill range west of town, very fine views of the city and the surrounding country are obtained. Just north of Bridge street, half way up the hill side, was a cluster of. cedars in the midst of which came out a very large spring of excellent water. NORTHERN ANI) S()UTHERN FACES. The valley of the Coldbrook, winding northwesterly, beyond the sandhills, marked the division between them and the rolling or undulating northeast portion of the city. The face of that part of the town is somewhat changed by grading and other improvements, but its general outline features remain. Along the streams and ravines and toward the river was some heavy timber, chiefly oak, maple and elm. Along the range line (Division street) to the south end of the city was a swampy, muddy region, some portions of it bearing heavy timber, and a short distance west of that was a long, narrow, swampy, tamarack vale, then nearly impassable, but now traversed by the railroads coming in from the south and southeast; and between this and the river, and along down to Plaster Creek, was a region broken by hills, except the narrow belt of bottom land, and all this latter, or nearly all, was quite heavily timbered. Considerable tracts of the wooded lands in and all about the city remained for near a quarter of a century favorite hunting grounds. SPRINGS AND WATER COURSES. Most of the smaller streams and water courses that once meandered these city grounds are now gone from sight. Sewer drainage carries them in scores of underground conduits to the river. Above the north line of the city, on the west side, runs the Indian Mill Creek, which enters the river near the railroad bridge. The brook which once ran across West Bridge streets, and through a ravine into the river south of that street, is now deep in the ground andt conducted beneath the canal on that side,. through a culvert. Near two miles east of the southern part of the city are Reeds and Fisk lakes. They are the source of the main stream of Coldbrook, which runs northwesterly and comes into the north part of the city, discharging into the river a little north of Coldbrook street. Carrier Creek is a northern branch of Coldbrook, which still runs in or near its original bed; but most of the water of both streams is diverted by pumping to the hill reservoir and used in the city supply. Turning again to the southward, there was once a pretty brooklet, coming from that part of the town called Bostwick's addition, crossing Division street, and near where the Union depot now is joining another brook that came in from a swamp a short distance south; thence flowing to the river near where is the Fulton street bridge. This is also now conveyed in sewers and culverts. Still further south came a stream from numerous springs on Blakely's addition and beyond,which crossed Division street at the north part of the Grant Addition tract, ran down a ravine across the Grandville road and into the river below where the gas works are located. At the point where this stream passes out from the low hills there, at an early day, a dam and race were constructed and a small building erected for a turning lathe and other light machinery, which were worked for a few years. Another noticeable rivulet had its rise from springs along and south of Fountain, and from that street, a little west of Division, flowed northerly through a pond bordered by flags and willows, and along where the Postoffice building is, passed well out toward Crescent avenue near Ionia street, rounded the north end of Prospect Hill and followed closely its western base 8 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAItIDS. back nearly to Lyon street; thence from Kent street turned westerly and half way to Canal street, where was another pond; thence flowed northwesterly across a miry place in Canal street and into the river near Erie street. That brook is also out of sight now, and discharges through the Kent alley sewer. C HANG IS 01)' FI F ATI IR X-S. Improvements, public and private, have very much changed the face of the city, and the end is not yet. Its present features need not be dwelt upon here. Nearly all the lower sink holes and bogs have been filled to new grades, and made dry land. Other parts that were once iniry from springs have been reclaimed by sewering. Much filling has been done in Waterloo street and vicinity, and from that east to Division street, which has also been so much changed each way from the Island street crossing, that where once were sharp, short and very muddy clay hills, is now an easy grade and a dry and well surfaced thoroughfare. A large tract at and about the tnion depot grounds, formerly, at times, submerged by river freshets, llas been made solid ground for the heavy business done in that locality. Streets below the hills on the east side have been raised generally, and a vast work has been done in excavating and grading at tlhe hill summits. The esthetic beauty of the place as it was in nature is gone; its beauty now pertains to business uses, and the embellishments of modern civilized life and taste. '111' R1VER IK, N ). The Grand River rises in Washtenaw county, about ninety miles east and fortyfive miles south of this city. It, wvith its several branches, drains a very large territory. Its general course is a little north of west. From a point about seven miles east of this city it bears more to the north, making only three miles west to six miles north, to where the Rouge River comes in; tlience it runs westward, circling to tlhe south, and from a point one and a half miles north of the city almost due south till at the foot of the rapids it turns again southwesterly, having described nearly three-quarters of a circle, in a sort of horse-shoe bend, within the course of a little more than fifteen miles. The Indian name of this river was Ouashtenong (or Washtonnong) Sebee-far away or long-flowing water. Andrew J. Blackbird (an educated native) says it means "overflowing river,"' and thlat the Indian name for these rapids was "Paw-qua-ting," meaning shallow rapids. In reference to the magnitude of Grand River at this point, the City Engineer, in a report made in July, I881, estimated the amount of water flowing over the rapids during ordinary low stages, at nearly if not quite I,000, 00oo,ooo gallons per day. In the unprecedented low stage in September, I879, it exceeded 6oo, 000, 000 gallons. Some speculative observers have a theory to the effect that not many ages ago the gravel hill which lies on the west side between Walker avenute and Second street, was an island. The reasoning is, substantially, that when Grand River carried a volume of water much larger than at present, a channel left it at a point some distance above the head of the rapids, and passed westward throtugl the now small valley of Indian Creek; thence tllrough the old tamarack swamp at Leonard street, thence through a cedar swamp which formerly lay across Walker avenue, and on southwesterly, down through the Gunnison marsh, joining the main river where the 'big ditch" now discharges its waters. According to this theory tlle mouth of Indian Creek must have been at tlhat time far back toward those western bluffs. SO() 1 AND) 'ROl)DUCTS. Nearly all the land in this vicinity is good for gardening and'farming. In some localities the soil needs fertilizing and careful SOIL AND PRODUCTS. 9 cultivation, in others less care and stimulants; but all about us the country is productive, and yields a fair reward for intelligent husbandry. There is considerable variety of soil, adapting it to a corresponding variety of products. And the city affords for all farm and garden products a home market which gives to the owners and occupants good prices and quick returns. Much of the country around this city was devoted by the early settlers to raising wheat and corn, producing good crops; but in more recent years attention has been turned to fruits and to garden vegetables for table supplies in the rapidly growing city. Apples, peaches, pears, plums and cherries, and the berry fruits, and onions, celery, asparagus, beans and peas, and the several root crops, have their various suitable soils and localities, and all find a ready home market. In the early days game of many kinds, and fish, were abundant; but of the native meats, except fish, the near-by supply is exhausted. Fish are yet taken from the river and adjacent waters in considerable quantities; but the bear, the deer and the wild geese, ducks and turkeys, partridges and quails, are no longer the ready victims of the huntsman for the morning meal. By the pioneers, wolves, bears and wildcats were often encountered, and even so late as i856 wild bears were sometimes seen )erambulating tlhe streets of the city. Deer and bears had a "runway" crossing the river at the still water just above the rapids. But their day is long since passed. And even the song birds whose music once enlivened the woods, and the wild honeybees that stored sweetness in the trees, and the wild berries, and many varieties of beautiful flowers of the forest and the openings, have dwindled away-almost gone, abashed, from the presence of the white man. And the grand, natural parks and groves and thickets, of maple, and elm, and oak, and hickory, and black walnut, and linden, and pine —these have been cut away-utterly destroyed except such occasional small patches as are needed for farm and family uses. Efforts are made in a few places, and along public thoroughfares, to restock with trees, for shade and for beautification, but the process is slow. The rock maple was an important factor in the production of sweets for the pioneer settlers. Maple sugar was a staple article, and the chief one of the saccharine sort. The Indians had known the art of making it, by boiling down the maple sap, before the white man came; and during the village days, and for some years after, a common sight in these streets was the incoming of the Indian pony bearing on each side a mokirk of sugar (weight from thirty to sixty pounds) swung saddlebag-fashion, and above them the bright-eyed Indian squaw or maiden, sitting astride. This mokirk was a trunk-shaped basket, made of birch bark usually, with a cover, and ingeniously sewed with fine roots or bark strings. In reference to soil products, the fact may be mentioned here that the principal if not the only food crop cultivated by the Indians was corn. Where that would grow well, and could be easily tilled by the crude Indian methods, they gave it much attention, especially near their villages, where the squaws did the tillage while the braves were absent in the chase-hunting or fishing-or rested lazily at the wigwams. According to a statement made by John Almy, who surveyed the mission lands in i838, all the grounds of the river front on the west side, from the foot to the head of the rapids, had been cleared and had "been occupied by the Indians as cornfields from time immemorial." The Indians had also raised corn in the vicinity of Waterloo street. And the prairie grounds at Grandville, and between there and the rapids, had been similarly cultivated. THOSE GRAND OLD TREES. Perhaps most to be regretted in the devastation of forestry at this place, may be the destruction of the beautiful white elm, of 10( HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. which there were several clusters, and some very grand specimens. There were several elm trees just southwest of the Public Square, and along Bostwick street below the hills. There was a fine grove toward the southwest part of the city, and another in the north part on the west side. A very few remain. A handsome old elm stands behind that church just north of Bridge and south of Ionia street, and there are other isolated trees. Two very handsome ones stand in the center of Bostwick street, a little north of Lyon. They are a little more than three feet in diameter near the ground, perhaps sixty feet high, with wide spreading toyps reaching to both sides of the street, and in summer time affording a fine shade from the sun's rays. Recently an effort in the Common Council to have them removed brought one of our local writersE. G. D. Holden —to the front with the following: "WOODMAN! SPARE THAT TREE!" They stood-two mammoth elms, apart Upon the sloping hill, As sentinels, long years on guard, Yet strong and stalwart still; And passing there, one day I heard, Atwixt their bowers of green, A queerish conversation held, Amid their leafy sheen, Those noble trees between. I could not quite at once make out, The funny sound that burst So strangely from those ancient trees, Or which was speaking first; But as the soft breeze lulled a bit, And stilled their swaying eaves, The voice came out, so plainly that 'Twas heard among their leaves, Like one that moans and grieves: "Say, mate; do you remember when, Three hundred years agone, We started on our vig'rous growth, The forest hill upon? And how we lived, and grew, and loved, Our many friends of old; Slaughtered and gone now, every one, And with the earth's damp mold, Are dead, and stark, and cold?" "Why yes, dear chum; I mind it well; With red men camping here Beneath our shade, when time had made Our forms a land-mark dear; We saw the scalp-dance, and the love Of Indian maids, for braves Who made no threat to slash us down, Upon their fathers' graves, Anent Grand River's waves." "That's it; for now the city lords, Who have nought else to do, Are bound to have our blood, I hear, To clear away the view; I think they'd best by far look up Some other ax to grind; And not be worrying our lives With rumors, to my mind, So racking and unkind." "Me too! How wond'rous wise they are, About us two old blades; Why bless me, do they ever thank Us for our gen'rous shades? Or think it takes three hundred years, To build such homes as we Give lovingly to every bird The years bring, fair and free, To nest with you and me?" "Oh, it will be a sorry day, If they should cut us down, Who are the oldest settlers now, In all the busy town; We never yet an ill have done, The good we love the best, And pleased are we when children pause Upon the walk to rest, With welcome shade caressed." "Well, mate, we've lived together long, And should they kill us quite, I cannot see what we can do To put the matter right; And when the day of doom comes on As come for all it must, United we will mingle still, Though mingling in the dust, Two lives that have been just." The voices ceased, yet long I stood, Another word to hear; While eke my eye was moistened with A something like a tear; And then I vowed to tell the tale, In kindly words like these, And pray the Councilmen to spare Those venerable trees, Whose shades the million please. ORIGINAL FACE OF THE COUNTY. 11 5 I -,.... - - -1 - - -L; - ---- -, I-'I.'.\IS IN M)STWICK STREET. Those trees are spared, and the ground and street by them shaped with special reference to their preservation. EARI.V I)ISCOVERIES. Early discoveries at Grand Rapids, or in the Grand River Valley, which have been made a matter of record, are not numerous nor very important. It is not known who first of the white explorers gazed across these rapids and exclaimed: "Behold here a beautiful valley!" And no special items of discovery are set down in the early chronicles. Discoveries there were undoubtedly, but not of diamonds, nor gold, nor silver, nor of majestic mountains, nor of great cataracts, nor of bewildering caves, or glens, or rocky, labyrinthine passes. They were merely of a placid and beautiful stream, broken only by a rippling and gentle fall, flowing through a region of flowery verdure, very inviting to seekers for new homes, in the midst of a wilderness and a hundred miles from civilized communities, but destined to become a veritable garden for happy settlers, and for productiveness and wealth. The gypsum, the lime rock, and other natural sources of gain, through labor and enterprise and skill, were not among the enrapturing visions of the first explorers. ORIGINAL FACE 01' KENT COUNTY. When John Ball was selecting lands, prior to i844, lie made voluminous notes of those surveyed in this vicinity, and about thirty years later prepared a paper giving a brief description by townships, which was printed in the Michigan Pioneer Collections, under the title of "Physical Geography of Kent County." From that, with some emendations, and from other sources, have been compiled the following paragraphs. The descriptions may strike the reader, first, as having been far from perfect in the beginning; second, as very interesting on account of the illustration which they afford of the great changes made in the surface of the country by settlement, improvement, destruction of timber, cultivation and drainage. In this latter light they are well worthy of thoughtful perusal: Kent county has a great diversity of soil and surface. It lies at an elevation of say ten to four hundred feet above Lake Michigan. At the usual stage of the water in the lake, the foot of the rapids at Grand Rapids is not more than ten feet higher. This,' with the other great lakes, has fluctuated in the height of its waters not less than five feet within the last forty years. In i848 the water was so high as to kill trees on low lands along the lake borders. This description of the lay of the land, and the original productions of the county, by townships, begins at the southeast corner town: BOwNNE-Township five north, range nine west. As to surface, comparatively level, or but slightly rolling. Originally it was mostly heavily timbered with maple, elm, and the other kinds of timber usually found on what are called timbered lands; some swamps and marshes, with a growth of tamarack and grass. The soil is of the rich loam usual in Michigan lands producing such timber. There are two small lakes in the west part, and quite a number of brooks flowing into a larger one in the south part, which falls into the Thornapple, thence to Grand River. Little if any waste land, with proper drainage. CALEDONIA-Township five north, range ten west, through which from south to north the Thornapple flows, is from that cause quite diversified; that river having high 1I HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. bluffs from which extend a somewhat rolling country. The land on the east of the river is oak openings, with the usual sandy soil of that kind of land, easy of tillage, and, from an admixture of lime, quite productive. All the lands in the township on the west side of the river are timbered, and away from the river not at all broken. GAINES- Township five north, range eleven west. Timbered beech and maple land; besides the timber usual on that kind of land there was much black walnut. It was so abundant, the first settlers used it for building rail fences. The land is very fertile, and somewhat diversified in surface, rising quite high in the southwest part, and from that cause, probably, comprises some of the best fruit lands in the county. Streams small-Plaster Creek heading in the east part, and from the west brooks flow into Buck Creek. BYRoN —Township five north, range twelve west. All timbered, of the usual kinds of timber, and soil considerably diversified in surface; some swamps of great extent. From the one extending through the southeast part of the township flows the Buck Creek to Grand River. Water flows also to the Rabbit River, and so to the Kalamazoo. The water from the west part flows to Buck Creek, which falls into the Grand River on the west line of the county. The swamps and marshes are all susceptible of drainage. They supplied the first settlers with hay. WYOMING-Township six north, range twelve west. Much diversified in soil, surface and timber. Grand River cuts off some four or five sections from the northwest corner. On sections seven and eighteen is an extensive swamp flowed by the river at high water; back of this swamp rises a high bluff, and the rest on that side is openings of hills and plains. The southwest part, the usual timbered land; but from the southeast corner to the center on the west, adjacent to Buck Creek, hard timber was quite generally interspersed with pine. Mills were early erected on Buck Creek to manufacture lumber for the Chicago market. Northeast half of the town, variegated openings, with some burr oak plains, all of good soil, and through this part flows Plaster Creek, where on section two the plaster rock shows itself in the bed of the creek, the same rock struck in boring the State well for salt in the adjoining section three, at the depth from the surface of forty feet. DeGarmo Jones entered the plaster land on section two, and was interested in the first mill erected there for plaster manufacture. Gypsum seems to underlie the whole county. On this same section two were salt springs much frequented by deer. There were, too, mounds of the pre-historic man, where have been found their bones and stone implements. PARIs-Township six north, range eleven west. Watered by Plaster Creek, and about equally divided between timbered and opening land, the northwest portion being openings, the surface mostly approaching a plain, and generally a good soil, making from its location near the city a valuable farming township. CASCADE-Township six north, range ten west. The Grand River clips off a small portion of the northeast corner, and the Thornapple meanders from south to north, about through the center. The flow of this stream is rapid, and it is bordered by high banks, making excellent water-power. The whole is openings, except a small portion in the southwest part. Soil and surface much diversified; in some parts quite hilly, in others plains. Soil from sandy to rich timbered. LowEILL-Township six north, range nine west. Through the north part of this township flows Grand River, and the Flat River falls into the same on section eleven, where there is quite an extended plain, formerly an old Indian burial place and planting grounds, and now the village of Lowell. On the south of the river the country soon ORIGINAL FACE OF THE COUNTY. 13 becomes rather high and rolling. Lands: openings, from which flow many spring brooks to the river. In the south part are some swamps, through which there is an outlet from the lake on section twenty-five, down south into the Thornapple. The lake on section thirty-two has no outlet. VERG ENN Es —Township seven north, range nine west. Oak openings, and much diversified in surface and soil, and quite elevated above the Grand River, into which, and eastward into Flat River, flow its clear streams. ADA -Township seven north, range ten west. Grand River flows through this township, diagonally, entering it on section thirty-five and leaving it on section six, dividing it so as to give about one-third southwest of the river. On section thirtyfour the Thornapple falls into the Grand River, where is quite an extent of rich plain lands, former planting grounds of the Indians, now the village of Ada. Lands much broken and high bluffs, near the river, down to which the brooks flow. GRAND RAPIDS-Township seven north, range eleven west. Grand River clips the northwest corner and thence flows southerly near the west line. This town is much elevated above the river, as is the adjoining southern part of township eight north, around which the river makes a wide bend. It is much diversified in soil and surface, hills, plains, swamps and lakes; soil fair, though in the northeast quarter are some poor sandy hills. In the south part is a large lake (Reeds Lake) much frequented from the city of Grand Rapids. WALKEKR-Township seven north, range twelve west. The west part of the city of Grand Rapids is in the east part of this township, through which Grand River flows, with a fall of some sixteen or eighteen feet, over a lime rock bed. Some distance, say a mile, from the river on the west, arise abrupt bluffs, beyond which is a rolling openings country, and in the north part some timbered land-all a good soil. Below the city are some extended bottom lands, and also below, and near the river, plaster quarries and mills. ALPINE-Township eight north, range twelve west. Mostly rich, undulating timbered lands, though gome pine and some swamp lands. Well watered, one creek flowing from northwest to southeast corner, of sufficient size for mill powers; also brooks flowing westward into Ottawa county. PLAINFIELD-Township eight north, range eleven west. Grand River sweeps around through the southern part, leaving some third or fourth of it south of the river-a high table land back of the river bottoms, with little timber and good opening soil. On the north side, too, are elevated plains and hills, the Rouge River coming through the same from near the northeast corner, falling into Grand River on section twentythree. CANNON-Township eight north, range ten west. Good opening lands, much diversified in surface, plains, hills, some marshes and a number of beautiful lakes, fine brooks and creeks. On one, Bear Creek, are mills and the village of Cannonsburg. GRATTAN-Township eight north, range nine west. Surface broken and rolling. Original timber largely of oak, hickory and pine. Lakes on nearly every section, and varying in size from twenty to three hundred acres. Flowage mainly toward Flat River. Soil mostly good. Some marshes or tamarack swamps. OAKFIIuLD-Township nine north, range nine west. Splendid openings. Has a dozen beautiful lakes, and many spring brooks, most of which flow east into Flat River. COURTLANi)-Township nine north, range ten west. Openings, fair-faced lands, with some marshes and two lakes; not very well watered, and what creeks there are flow both ways, part into the Flat and others west into the Rouge River. 14 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPID' ALGOMA-Township nine north, range eleven west. Rouge River makes a wide serpentine circuit through the southern part. A considerable portion of the town is hilly, and the soil inferior and quite diversified in its timber, consisting of hard wood, pine, and oak openings. Well watered by the Rouge River and other streams. SPARTA- Township nine north, range twelve west. Mostly *rich timbered land, conveniently undulating. On the Rouge River in the east part some pine and wet bottom lands, and in the north part an extensive swamp. Well watered. TYRONE - Township ten north, range twelve west. Hard and pine timber, mostly woodland, and much swamp. The Rouge River flows sluggishly through the east part, and from the west side creeks run into the Crockery Creek, which falls into Grand River near its mouth. SOLON-Township ten north, range eleven west. Rolling lands, pine, hard timber, and swamp. A portion of the soil poor, the east part poorly watered; from the west part the streams flow to the Rouge. NELSON-Township ten north, range ten west. Rolling, timbered land, interspersed with pine; fair soil, few streams, those flowing into both the Flat and Rouge Rivers. SPENCER-Township ten north, range nine west. Mostly hard timber, yet considerable pine; soil fair and rather level, the eastern half covered to quite an extent by large and smaller lakes, outflowing into Flat River. A RCHA(O LOGY. In common with many other western localities, this Grand Rapids region has its evidences of very early occupation; probably by what are termed pre-historic races. There are, or were before their defacement or demolition by modern civilized man, numerous tumuli, evidently ancient burial places, hereabouts, and in exploring them many relics of much archaeological interest have been found. Some of these are undoubtedly very ancient. Skeletons and bones crumbling to dust, in places very favorable to their long preservation, have been unearthed, that were in such positions, and clusters, as to leave no room for doubt that they were given sepulture many generations, and even centuries, before white men came upon this ground. And with them in their graves have been discovered not only the more recent spears and flint arrow heads, and silver beads and bracelets and breastplates and other ornaments, and copper needles and axes; but a variety of more ancient stone articles and implements, such as axes, pipes curiously wrought, and vases of coarse pottery in peculiar patterns. These latter, of stone, are often found, with much decayed skeletons, beneath the former, indicating deposits of greater antiquity. In this part of the country none of the Indian mounds were very high. Generally they were raised but a few feet above the surrounding grounds-sometimes bordered with depressions from which earth may have been taken for their construction, but more generally the levels about them bear no indications of ever having been thus excavated. The mounds differ much in size or area. Some are so small that, though flattened on the top and but a few feet or a rod or two in diameter, it appears not impossible that they may have been conical and much higher originally. The larger ones, however, were probably never rounded either to pointed or spherical tops; and not infrequently on the smaller, as well as the larger, and over the remains of human bodies and their accompanying relics, were large trees bearing evidences of many centuries of growth. When the fur traders and missionaries and the pioneer settlers came to these rapids, in the years from 1821 to I834, there were Indian burial places on or near the bank of the river at various points on the northerly side, below the center of the present city and at the mouth of Flat River ARCHAEOLOGY. particularly, and on the other side near the Thornapple, below the southern limits of the city and along down to Grandville. There were also evidences of cultivation at some period near all such places. The burial grounds of the Indians at the village below the Pearl street bridge, west side, comprised also a number of mounds, which since have been defaced and leveled in the construction of streets. And there, as elsewhere, in some of them it was found that beneath the buried remains of Indians of the tribes found here by the whites, were other and earlier deposits of similar character, in which were relics of the origin of which these later tribes professed to have no knowledge. The grading and working of streets on the west side of these rapids, displaced most of that portion of the mounds above the general level, and therein were found a variety of beads, rings, bracelets, and silver trinkets, along with the skeletons exhumed. Usually the bones were reburied, and the other articles appropriated by the discoverers. In the spring of i856 was found, some miles below the city, a skeleton which Louis Campau pronounced that of a Sac Chief, buried half a century or more before; with which were found a knife, a coil of silver wire about the neck, and a breastplate and armlets of silver, apparently of English manufacture. These were comparatively modern, of course, and within the city, in i858, similar articles in great profusion were discovered in making excavations on the mission lands. Prof. J. B. Steere, of the Michigan University, in I870, described the findings of some explorations in Montcalm county, which were similar in kind to all others up and down Grand River, and its tributaries. W\ith the skeletons and bones there were oval vases or kettles, made of coarse clay, and blackened as if used over fire. Some of them on the outside appeared as if they had been moulded in baskets. Inside they bore finger prints, and the rims appeared as if pinched at regular intervals between the thumb and finger. These seemed to have been placed not very deep in the ground, and as if the mounds were heaped over them from surrounding trenches. The later Indian graves were mostly without mounds, except where they were on the summits of old mounds and over other graves. The more modern sepulchres had sometimes a pen of poles built over them, converging to the center, or roof-shaped, the ground being left nearly level, while often the older ones are under trees from one to three feet in diameter, indicating great antiquity. In I874, Edwin A. Strong, Wright L. Coffinberry and Joel C. Parker-as a committee in behalf of the Kent Scientific Institute-explored a group of mounds near the river, and just below the south line of the city, and about the same time many others hereabout, of which Messrs. Coffinberry and Strong gave substantially the following account in a paper read before the American Association for the Advancement of Science, at its meeting in Detroit in August, i875: Eight groups, containing forty-six mounds in all, were inspected, of which fourteen mounds were explored with great care. A typical group of seventeen, on the farm of Anson N. Norton, about three miles below the city on the south bank of the river, were surveyed and platted. Those excavated and examined varied in altitude from two to fifteen and a half feet, and in diameter from ten to orle hundred and two feet. All were more or less conical, somewhat flattened at the top, with a broad talus at the base; such a form as a conical mound of earth will naturally assume from long exposure. The material of the mounds seems in most cases to have been gathered from such an extent of surface about them as to leave no appreciable depression, and is usually of the same or similar alluvial soil. Only in a few cases does there appear a mixture of the underlying gravels or clays, and generally it is evident that no great interval of time elapsed between the beginning and the completion of a mound. That these mounds are very old seems to be beyond question. Trees are standing upon them as large as some that have been cut on similar soil, which showed two hundred and sixty rings of growth; while by them are lying the remains of larger trees, 16 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. which must have been giants when those standing were but saplings. And more conclusive evidence of the great antiquity of the mound structures is found in the articles which many of them contain. Human bones are decomposed almost beyond recognition, and the same is true of the shafts of long bones of herbiferous animals, sometimes found there, so tender that they may be rubbed to powder between the fingers. Copper is encrusted with a thicker coating of the carbonate than are pieces of that metal found at the depth of several feet in the heavy drift of the same vicinity. Shells are in a friable condition, and wood, and bark and all fabrics are entirely decomposed. Nevertheless there is difference enough in this respect, in different cases, to suggest that all mounds of the same group are not coeval. One mound, at Spoonville, Ottawa county, removed years ago to make way for a dock and mill, was described by those who leveled it as a pile of fish-bones, ashes and shells, at least fifteen feet high, forty-five feet wide and one hundred feet long. About one-third of the mounds examined were clearly places of sepulture. The use of the others, or the motive which led to their construction, can only be conjectured. They may have been monumental or commemorative, or erected as observatories, the latter being considered the least probable. They were simply empty but structtrral piles of earth, mingled confusedly with those of the burial class, and not distinguishable from them by any external signs. Where there were no human remains there were no other relics, while in no case were skeletons exhumed without finding something else of interest, and often several different kinds, such as stone, bone and copper implements, pottery, drinking vessels, and other articles. Human remains found were almost invariably in an elongated, concave, irregular oval pit, a fobt or two below the natural surface of the ground, surrounded by whatever other objects of interest the mound contained. There is no uniformity of posture in the positions of the skeletons; the feet are turned indifferently in any direction; often the limbs appear to have been forcibly flexed upon the body; still oftener the bones are confusedly mingled. Seldom is a complete skeleton in place found. Usually the skull is flattened as if by the pressure of the soil in settling. Copper articles found appear as if they had been wrapped in coarse woven cloths, and in several instances, where the earth has been carefully cleared from bone, spears, flint implements, or even the common fragments of quartz pebbles, impressions of fabrics were clearly visible, such as might be made by slack-twisted threads of coarse, loosely woven cloth. Shells were found shaped apparently for carrying or storing water, in one case having holes near the edges, as if to hang by a cord or thong. Fragments of coarse pottery had markings as if shaped and baked or dried in a basket of rushes or coarse grass. Fragments of finer hollow ware were unique in appearance, the upper portion bearing marks as if made by revolxing upon some kind of wheel, and the lower part being irregularly convex and having three or four strong protuberant knobs. The rim is beveled or rounded at the edge, often ornamented with a check pattern, apparently made by strokes diagonally of a pointed instrument. Below this is a plain band bordered by grooves, or rows of triangular pits, or both. These vessels are small, having a capacity of not more than one or two quarts. Nothing of recent deposit was found in the Norton group of mounds; but in a mound on the farm of Myron Roys, about a quarter of a mile distant, were exhumed parts of a skeleton and a bed of charcoal. These were only about a foot beneath the surface. This mound was about six feet high, forty feet in diameter at the base, and considerably flattened by time. Nothing else was found here, except a few flint chips and a small copper needle, thickly coated with green oxide. Another account of this ''find" describes two pipes-one of nicely wrought green trap rock, the other ''a finely carved piece of fossil coral." The trees growing about and upon these tumuli, and above the deposits, are of several varieties of hardwood- oak, maple, ash, elm, basswood, and others-and of age apparently between two hundred and fifty and three hundred years; but, as Mr. Coffinberry naturally queried, "\Who knows whether they are of the first or fiftieth crop of timber since the building of the mounds?" In I876 three skeletons were unearthed in digging for street improvements at Grandville. In a section of the lumber vertebra of one of these was found imbedded a piece of a flint arrow head, about an inch in length. It was completely buried in the bone, which had evidently healed and grown about it, and apparently it had passed throulgh the abdomen to reach the position of its lodgment. Wright L. Coffinberry has examined upward of sixty, and thoroughly explored upward of forty, of those ancient earthworks called mounds, in Kent and Montcalm coun ARCHAEOLOGY. 17 ties, and a large share of them in Grand Rapids and this immediate vicinity. A number of them were on the west side of the river within the city limits. In grading these were only cut down to about the general level, and in this process many bones and implements of comparatively recent deposit were found. But it was in deeper excavating, for sewerage and for laying gas and water pipes, that older and more interesting articles were discovered-often in deposits directly under those of the burial places of the Indian tribes that were here when the white people came. Four mounds silver (about thirteen pounds), and one of copper (about fourteen pounds), with bone husking pegs, copper axes, bear's teeth RELIC FO'UND UNDER THE MOUNDS IN COURT STREET. (CUT FROM DEER'S HORN.) with holes drilled in them, and other curiosities, which Mr. Coffinberry sold to the Curator of the Peabody Museum in Salem, Mass., for $200. An offer of $Ioo was made by the Smithsonian Institution for the Norton mound relics; but these, under previous stipulation, belonged to the Kent Scientific Institute. With all these deposits were found human bones that had the appearance of having been divested of flesh before they were placed in the pits or cists; generally the long bones with the relics and the craniums on top, upright in position and very near together. Louis Campau, the pioneer fur trader here, said that the natives had no knowledge of the origin of these mounds; only knew them to be the work of human hands; had great veneration for them, and a propensity for being buried on or near them. They were mute evidences of earlier occupation, probably by a different race of people. In many, if not most, of the above mentioned explorations, Mr. Thomas W. Porter has also taken an active part, RELKIC FOUlND UNDE.R THE MOU)'NDS IN COURT SREEI'T. were displaced and leveled in improving West Fulton street, and beneath the bases of two of them, in trench digging, large deposits were opened, in which were found articles of interest, such as vases, pipes, copper tools, bone tools, and in one of them, wrought in copper, a good imitation of two of the upper front teeth of the Castor beaver. Beneath the base of a mound in Court street were taken two nuggets of native 2 18 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. and evinced great zeal and interest in the work. In I878 Horace and John Martin, brotheis, in the town of Wright, about a dozen miles from this city, discovered what was supposed to be an Indian grave, of peculiar description. They were digging by the side of a large beech tree, when they came upon a deposit of eight human skeletons, in upright positions and disposed in a circle. With the bones were found several implements of the chase or of war. They were only about two feet below the surface, but, judging by the annular rings of the tree that stood over them, and which was cut down, the conclusion was reached that the relics must have lain there at least five hundred years. In the spring of i88o, in excavating for the foundation of a building at the corner of West Leonard and Front streets, the workmen unearthed several skeletons; also kettles, tomahawks, and other relics of a past age. One large copper kettle had a close fitting cover. This was found several feet below the surface. It was so heavy that there was some excitement over the find, the diggers imagining that they had secured a treasure. But on opening it they found within - earth - nothing more. Judging from the nature of these discoveries, it seems evident that at some period the Indians had a thrifty village in that vicinity, probably as large as the one at the foot of the rapids. In I882, in leveling a mound near the west end of Pearl street bridge, skeletons were exhumed; and there Mr. Coffinberry found a copper spear point or needle, six or seven inches long, one-fourth of an inch in diameter in the middle, tapering to a smooth rounded point at one end and to a sort of flattened shank at the other. Silver beads also were dug up. He thought these antedated the Ottawa and Chippewa occupation here, or that of any tribe -of the-past twoor three centuries. A writer in a Detroit paper, describing similar needles found in Canada, suggested that they were Indian sewing needles, used in the construction of bark canoes, garments, and other things, and called attention to a similarity in shape between them and the sewing machine needle of the present day. The Lansing Republican, in I877, stated that 0. A. Jenison, of that city, had a rare Indian curiosity, a stone pipe, that was found in a mound in Kent county about ten years previously, which it thus described: It is made from a single stone, seven inches long, two and one-half inches wide at one end and tapering down to one and one-quarter inches at the other, and about three-quarters of an inch thick at the center, being beveled on both sides from the center toward the sides and ends, which are quite thin. From the center of this wedge-shaped base rises a stone bowl, resembling an irrverted "plug" hat, with a rim seven inches in circumference, the bowl just below the rim being four and one-half inches in circumference. A small hole is drilled from the narrowest end of the base to the bowl, and through this its original owner probably imbibed the smoke from the killikinick with which he filled the bowl. The stone itself is of a dark brown color, with little shining particles resembling silica, is very smooth, and beautifully polished. In August, I872, men who were excavating for the foundation of the Butterworth block, between Lock street and the river, and south of Huron street, came upon a buried structure that appeared like an old lime kiln, with a thick, circular wall of stone. Some early residents thought it the remains of a kiln used by the natives; but until it is shown that the Indians made lime, that theory has but little support. Later researches have established the fact that a white man made lime there in 1834. Other discoveries include bones of extinct animals of great size, of the mammoth or mastodon species, generally found in the mire or quicksands of marshy places. In marshy ground on the farm of Aaron Hills, about nine miles northwest of this city, such b-ones were-faund,in 1884. Thepieces dug up included twelve ribs, seven sections of vertebrae, and the teeth of the under jaw of ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES. 19 an animal of elephantine proportions. One rib was four feet long; one section of the vertebrae was twenty-three inches in length; one tooth weighed three pounds ten and onehalf ounces, and another three pounds eight and one-half ounces. May 2, i887, several fragments of mammoth or mastodon tusks were found on the farm of John D. Considine, on section sixteen, town five north, range twelve west (town of Byron). Some of these were about four feet long, eight inches in diameter, curved, and weighed from twenty-five to thirty pounds each. Parts of trees at great depths below the surface have been found while sinking wells in various localities hereabout. One example is that of a trunk of a cedar tree, lying in a position nearly horizontal, thirty-seven feet down, imbeded in blue clay. This was in Alpine township, found about thirty years ago. The log was over six inches in diameter, and but little decayed. Many similar instances have been reported in this valley, as well as elsewhere in the State. A class of works supposed to be coeval with the Indian mounds, but which may be either of earlier or more recent origin, so far as the uncertain evidence goes, is that of the socalled ancient Garden Beds of Michigan. The remains of Indian cornfields have been noticed in many places, and their resemblance to the fields under cultivation when the whites came, fixes their comparatively modern status beyond reasonable doubt. But these garden beds present a different surface-patches of raised ground of much greater width; some with intervening paths nearly as wide as the beds, others with only narrow depressions or furrows between. The Indian corn hills were seldom or never in rows, but were very irregularly disposed. On the contrary, these beds exhibited great regularity of form. They are described as varying in width from five to fifteen or more feet, and in length from ten or twelve to over one hundred and twenty feet. They appear much like well laid out garden beds, raised about one foot, in the average. The State Pioneer Collection, Volume Two, contains descriptions and drawings of some of these garden beds in the Grand River Valley, but does not give their exact location. That they are of.at least as great antiquity as the mounds seems to be the general opinion of those who have made a study of them, and some consider them the work of the Mound Builders. ORIGINALI IAND ENTRIES. The Government surveys reached Grand River at this point from the southward in i83I. John Mullett surveyed town seven north, range eleven west, and Lucius Lyon surveyed town seven, range twelve. From these two the city is taken. Almost as soon as the survey was completed, entries of land were made on the left bank of the river. Louis Campau, September I9, I83I, entered the tract now bounded by Bridge street on the north, Division street on the east, Fulton street on the south, and the river on the west. North and south of that tract, next the river, entries were made September 25, i832, by Lucius Lyon, Eurotas P. Hastings and Henry L. Ellsworth. October 13, I832, Samuel Dexter entered four eighty-acre lots (fractional) lying on the east side of the range line (Division street)-a tract two miles long by eighty rods wide, next the west line of sections nineteen and thirty, town seven north, of range eleven west. The following is a statement of the original entries of all the land covered by the present city, as appears by the public records, showing who were the purchasers, and the dates of entry; beginning at the southeast corner, thence by sections to the northeast corner; thence south through the middle tier of sections; returning by the half sections and fractions next the west line of the city, and ending at the northwest corner: Section thirty-one, township seven north, range eleven west-Isaac Bronson, southeast quarter, August 3, I835. Stephen Woolley, east half south 20 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. west quarter, December 24, I834. Ira Jones, west half southwest quarter, July 22, I833. Josiah Burton, west half northwest quarter, July 31, I833. Elijah Grant, east half northwest quarter, August I9, I833. Elijah R. Murry, west half northeast quarter, December 9, I834. Vincent L. Bradford, east half northeast quarter, July 3I, I835. Section thirty, township seven north, range eleven west-Arthur Bronson, east half southeast quarter, November 2, I833. Eurotas P. Hastings, west half southeast quarter, November 2, I833. Walter Sprague, southeast quarter southwest quarter, November 2, i833. Toussaint Campau, northeast quarter southwest quarter, December i, i832. Samuel Dexter, west half southwest quarter, and west half northwest quarter, October I3, 1832. Joel Guild, southeast quarter northwest quarter, July 6, I833. Abram S. Wadsworth, northeast quarter northwest quarter, November I8, I833. Daniel W. Coit, west half northeast quarter, October 25, I833. Jason Winslow, southeast quarter northeast quarter, April 8, I835. George M. Mills, northeast quarter northeast quarter, January 22, 1835. Section nineteen, township seven north, range eleven west-Benjamin H. Silsbee, east half southeast quarter, July 8. I835. Daniel W. Coit, west half southeast quarter and east half southwest quarter, October 25, I833. Samuel Dexter, west half southwest quarter and west half northwest quarter, October I3, 1832. James Lyman, northeast quarter northwest quarter, June 22, 1835. Vincent L. Bradford, southeast quarter northwest quarter, July 3I, i835. Isaac Bronson, west half northeast quarter, August 3, I835. Winthrop W. Gilman, southeast quarter northeast quarter, August io, I835. Alanson Hains, northeast quarter northeast quarter, July 29, I835. Section eighteen, township seven north, range eleven west-Richard P. Hart, southeast quarter, June I3, 1835. James Lyman, southeast quarter southwest quarter, June 22, 1835. Thomas Tileston, northeast quarter southwest quarter, July 6, I835. Daniel W. Coit, west half southwest quarter, October 25, I833. Section thirteen, township seven north, range twelve west-Daniel WV. Coit, east fraction southeast quarter (about forty-four acres), September 13, I833. James Davis, lots three (30.45 acres) and four (30.30 acres) in southeast quarter, and east half southwest quarter, September 2,1840. Joseph Cordes and Michael Thome, southwest quarter southwest quarter, February I3, I847. Jonathan F. Chubb, northwest quarter southwest quarter, November 3, I852. Section twenty-four, township seven north, range twelve west-Lucius Lyon and Eurotas P. Hastings, east fraction one hundred and thirty-five acres, September 25, I832. Ebenezer Davis, lot one (67.95 acres), August 29, 1840. Smith and Van Allen, lot two (6i.6o acres) and west half northwest quarter, June i8, I846. Henry Stone, northwest quarter southwest quarter, December 2i, I844. James Scribner, southwest quarter southwest quarter, July 25, i844. James Scribner and Eliphalet H. Turner, each an undivided half of lots three and four (I03.20 acres), January i6 and February 28, I843. Section twenty-five, township seven north, range twelve west-Louis Campau, east fraction northeast quarter (72.15 acres), September I9, 183i. Lucius Lyon and Eurotas P. Hastings, north fraction southeast quarter (48 acres), September 25, i832. Henry L. Ellsworth, south fraction southeast quarter (72 acres), September 25, i832. Louis Campau, Islands Nos. I and 2 (3.49 acres), August io, I84I. Richard Godfroy, Island No. 3 (9.01 acres), August 3, I839. James Scribner, west half northwest quarter, February 28, i843. American Baptist Missionary Society, lots one and two (91.13 acres), May iI, i849. George M. Mills, representative and assignee of the Catholic Mission, lot three (65.74 acres), May II, I849. Daniel D. Van Allen, lot four (4o acres), February Io, I845. Section thirty-six, township seven north, range twelve west-Joel Thomas, northwest fraction northwest quarter northwest quarter (8.60 acres), patent issued March I4, I87I. Daniel W. Coit, west fractional half northwest quarter (48.72 acres), September I3, 1I833. Josiah Burton, east half northwest quarter (72 acres), August i, I833. Elijah Grant, west half northeast quarter, September I3, 1833, and east half northeast quarter, August i9, I833. Noah E. King, east half southeast quarter, June 20, 1834. Lewis Freeman and David Freeman, west half southeast quarter, July 14, 1834, and east half southwest quarter, July 22, I834. Daniel W. Coit, west half southwest quarter, October 25, 1833. Aaron B. Russell, Island No. 4, August I3, I839 (patented August 25, 1841). Section thirty-five, township seven north, range twelve west-Daniel WV. Coit, east half southeast quarter (103 acres), September 13, 1833. George M. Mills, west half southeast quarter, and east half southwest fractional quarter (149.20 acres), November II, I834. John Dodge, south part west half southwest quarter (62.10 acres), January 22, 1835. (Charles R. Hurlburt took the southeast fraction of section thirty-four, south of the river and just below the last named description, June 28, I834). Basil Robarge, lot one (35.08 acres), and lot two (57.60 acres), in northeast quarter, September i6, I840. Section twenty-six, township seven north, range twelve west-D. D. Van Allen, southeast quarter ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES. 21 southeast quarter, September 9, 1844. William Peaselee, southwest quarter southeast quarter, September 6, I845. J. W. Gunnison, northwest quarter southeast quarter, December ii, i844. XVilliam Peaselee, northeast quarter southeast quarter, September 9, 1844. J. xV. Gunnison, south half northeast quarter, March i, 1848. John Ball, north half northeast quarter, November 9, I854. Section twenty-three, township seven north, range twelve west —Sarah Pettibone, southeast quarter southeast quarter, April 9, 1845. George M. Barker, southwest quarter southeast quarter, May 7, 1845. Oliver Whiting, northwest quarter southeast quarter, June II, i845. J. XV. Gunnison, northeast quarter southeast quarter, December 19, i844. Billius Stocking, northeast quarter, August 24, I840. Section fourteen, township seven north, range twelve west-Samuel White, southeast quarter, August 13, i839. All the lands in that portion of the city east of the river were "located," as the settlers termed it, and purchased of the General Government prior to 1836. To those on the other side the Indian title was not extinguished until by the treaty of March 28, I836, and then time was required to complete the public surveys; besides which land appropriations and reservations for public improvements and other purposes, with selections by the State, delayed the issue and perfection of titles, in some cases for many years. The earliest patent on that side was to the northwest quarter-section of the city, August I3, I839. But most of the lands there were pre-empted or occupied by "squatters" very soon after the treaty was made, and settlements were made in many instances by others than those whose names appear as the purchasers, the settlers selling or transferring their claims. The lands of the mission properties south of Bridge street were the subject of some strife between the representatives of the Catholic and those of the Baptist mission. This was finally adjusted by sales giving to the Catholics $8,ooo and to the Baptists $12,000. Against that disposition, however, Isaac Turner and Willard Sibley vigorously protested; they having "located" upon the premises, in the spring of i836, under the expectation that after the Indian treaty the land would be open for such settlement, by preemption or purchase. Other tracts, selected by State Commissioners, as University or public building lands, were finally sold on appraisal by the State. By legislative act of March 25, i840, it was directed that they be thus sold to actual settlers, or in case the settlers should not purchase at the appraised value they should have the use of the lands for such time as should be equivalent to, or compensation for, their improvements, as determined by the Commissioners. An act passed February 9, I842, directed that certificates of purchase be issued to E. H. Turner and James Scribner, for lots three and four, in fractional section twenty-four, township seven north, range twelve west, at the rate of $I 2per acre for lot three, and $14 per acre for lot four; to Willard Sibley for lot two, fractional section twenty-five, at $i6 per acre; to Charles G. Mason for lot two, section twenty-four, at $io per acre, and the west half of the northwest quarter of the same section at $2 per acre, and to Jules Marion for the west half of the northwest quarter of section twenty-five, at $5 per acre. The terms of payment, as prescribed by the act of i840, were: One-tenth cash down and the rest in annual installments of the same amount, with interest at seven per cent. The parcels assigned to Charles G. Mason, as above specified, were finally conveyed to Smith and Van Allen; that assigned to Willard Sibley went to the repreresentative of the Catholic Mission, and for that originally assigned to Julius Marion the certificate was issued to James Scribner. Lawsuits over the titles of some of these lands vexed the courts and fed lawyers for several years. They comprise now a valuable and handsome portion of the city; but to this day some of the original claimants, or their near friends, tell pitiful stories of the manner in which they deem themselves to have been swindled out of their just property rights. CHAPTER II. INDIAN OCCUPATION OF WESTERN MICHIGAN. PREPARED BY DWIGHT GOSS. THE ALGONQUIN TRIBES AND THEIR PREDECESSORS. "The Lord of the forest is lord no more; The pride of his manly soul is o'er. The fields, where he won his youthful fame, On the track of the foe, or in quest of game, Are his no more." When the Europeans discovered America, they found the aborigines a bow-and-arrow race, who lived in forests and depended upon the chase for subsistence. From a fancied resemblance to the inhabitants of Southern Asia, they were called Indians. Their origin, their migrations and their history are shrouded in mystery; but undoubtedly they should be numbered among the ancient races of mankind. They were divided into several nations, which were subdivided into many tribes and families, each'having a local name, distinct traditions and a separate dialect. In that portion of the continent lying between Hudson's Bay on the north, and the thirty-seventh parallel of latitude on the south, and between the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Mississippi River on the west, roamed the great Indian nation of the Algonquins. Nomadic in habit, and despising agriculture, they were almost perfect types of primitive savages. When first visited by Europeans, they numbered nearly a quarter of a million; but the white man's aggressive spirit, his destructive vices, and, above all, his fiery rum, have destroyed the Algonquin nation. Whole families and entire tribes have vanished from the earth, until now only a few remain to tell of the departed glories of their people, and repeat the legends of their ancestors. Among the many powerful tribes of the Algonquin nation, were the Chippewas, the Ottawas and the Potawatomies, who inhabited the lower peninsula of Michigan. Their early home was upon the Ottawa River in Canada, but prior to the first visits of the French to the St. Lawrence, they crossed the lakes and took possession of lower Michigan. The three tribes were kindred in blood, in tradition, in habits of life and in general appearance. They called themselves the three brothers, of whom the Chippewa tribe was the oldest, and the Ottawa tribe the second, while the Potawatomie tribe was the youngest. Before this migration from Canada, Michigan was peopled by the Mish-ko-tink or Prairie Indians, who were a powerful tribe. There was a long and sanguinary war for the possession of the country. Tradition tells where many of the battles were fought. There were three bloody battles on the banks of Grand River. One was at Battle Point, a few miles above its mouth, another was on and about a high hill, near where Maple River unites with Grand River, while the third and fiercest conflict took place on land now embraced in the Eighth Ward of Grand Rapids. It is said that a ferocious hand-tohand battle was fought near where now is the corner of Mt. Vernon and West Fulton streets, in which many were slain, and which OVERTHROW OF THE PRAIRIE INDIANS. 23 resulted in the complete defeat of the Prairie Indians. The tradition must be something more than a myth, because in that neighborhood human bones and implements of Indian warfare have often been found near the surface in promiscuous profusion. "Behind the scared squaw's birch canoe, The steamer smokes and raves; And city lots are staked for sale Above old Indian graves." OVERTHROW OF THE PRAIRIE INDIANS. The final contest between the Prairie Indians and the invading tribes, was fought near the mouth of the Marquette River. Having been defeated in every part of the country, the Prairie Indians retreated to the lake shore and awaited an opportunity of escape, when in the middle of the night they were surprised by the impetuous invaders. The battle was short, but decisive. The Prairie Indians were completely annihilated. A few escaped from the hands of their bloodthirsty enemies, only to perish in the waters of the lake. The Indians of Marquette River have often pointed out imaginary tracks of the fleeing Mish-ko-tink in the sands of the lake shore, and with solemn faces have declared that the disturbance of the eddying waters in that neighborhood was caused by the angry spirits of their drowned enemies. The remembrance of the bloody conflict was perpetuated by the Indian name of the river, which was Nin-o-we-pe-ep-ka-gung, or the-place-where we-smote-them-on-the-head. One of the tribal traditions it to the effect that a terrible battle was once fought near where now is Birmingham, Oakland county, between the Chippewas and Foxes. The former were defeated, and their large village utterly destroyed, with a loss to them of more than a thousand of their braves. The date is as uncertain as the rest of the tradition-it may have been long before the Chippewas rallied in the north and came through the Michigan Lake shore region on their ravaging raid. Having conquered the country, the Chippewas took possession of the northern portion of the peninsula, the Ottawas of the central and western portions, and the Potawatomies of the south, beyond the Kalamazoo River. The Grand River Valley was occupied by the Ottawas. There were villages at Battle Point, at Crockery Creek, at the Rapids, at Plainfield, at Ada, at Lowell, and at various other points up the river. Their neighbors on the south were the Indians on the Kalamazoo River, and those on the north were the Indians of the Muskegon River. The Indians always gathered about the waters of the country, for by their canoes they traveled, fished, hunted, and transported their game. Occasionally an Indian family wandered for a time into the forests of the interior, but their villages and homes were almost invariably upon the banks of rivers. From time immemorial there was a large and prosperous village at Grand Rapids. This was because of the excellent fishing in the river, and the abundance of game in the valley. Grand River always supported a large Indian population. In the palmy days of Indian supremacy, there were undoubtedly more than a thousand Indians living within the present limits of Kent county, which was an unusual number for the territory, because in his native state an Indian required a vast amount of land to support himself and family. Frequently an area as large as a county, which was not on a navigable river, only furnished subsistence for less than a dozen families. Before the advent of the pale face, Michigan doubtless supported less than fifty thousand natives. Contrary to popular belief, the Indians probably increased in population by their first contact with the white race. The white traders brought to the red men improved weapons and methods for fishing and hunt 24 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. ing; the rude agriculture of the Indians was made more productive by the efforts of the missionaries and traders; many of the latter were more or less skilled in medicine and surgery, which assisted in lessening the death rate of the Indians; again, the traders took into the wilderness many articles and implements which were of great use to the savages in their struggles for existence, and all these things tended to increase the native population. Holding their lands by the slight tenure of possession, the Chippewas, Ottawas and Potawatomies suffered much from the encroachments of neighboring tribes. There were frequent inroads from the Lake Superior region, by the Indians of that section. Those who were about the head of Lake Michigan constantly made raids into the territory of Michigan. The Hurons, of Canada, often crossed the border to hunt and fish, but never settled here in very great numbers, although along the eastern limits there were many Huron families and villages. Even the Iroquois, from beyond Lake Ontario, often hunted and trapped the beaver in Eastern Michigan, and after the French settled at Detroit the tribes from the valley of the Ohio annually visited that trading post and frequently hunted in the forests of the interior. Such was the Indian occupancy of Michigan before it was settled by the white race. Those sentimentalists who mourn because the red men have been driven from their homes, and despoiled of their lands, should remember that the Indians themselves obtained the country by force, and retained it only as it suited their convenience and desires. When game grew scarce the land was abandoned, and whoever afterward occupied it was, according to Indian custom, entitled to its possession. It was Indian law that "might makes right." When first visited by the French explorers and traders, the three tribes, Chippewas, Ottawas and Pottawatomies, enjoyed the most friendly relations with one another, and so continued as long as their tribal existence lasted. By amalgamation and intermarriage they became so mixed and blended that when the whites settled in the country, it was often difficult to ascertain to what tribe many Indian villages belonged, and those of one tribe often lived in the villages of another. There were many Chippewas and Pottawatomies scattered among the Ottawa villages of the Grand River valley. After the middle of the seventeenth century the Indians of Michigan were frequently visited by French explorers, traders and missionaries, and by them the habits of the natives were much changed. They traveled more, and wandered over a larger extent of territory. They made annual visits to the French trading posts to sell furs and secure supplies. Undoubtedly they lived better and had more comfprts than in the years before the white man visited their country. The traders, white hunters and trappers who first went among the Indians, proved a blessing to the race. Living among the red men and adopting their ways and habits, they introduced many simple elements of civilization, and helped to develop the better part of savage life. The first white men who went among the Indians of the Northwest should be numbered among the benefactors of mankind. FRENCH AND BRITISH INFLUENCES. The first white visitors to Michigan were the Jesuit missionaries. Father Claude Allouez, who had been at the Falls of St. Mary, established a temporary mission at the mouth of the St. Joseph River about the year i665. In I668 a permanent mission was founded at St. Mary's Falls, and three years after a grand Indian council was held there, at which agents of the French government met all the Indian tribes of the Northwest, to bring them under the protection and dominion of the French King, and to take formal possession of the country. Among the missionaries present at that FRENCH AND BRITISH INFLUENCES. 25 council to consecrate the ceremonies, was Father Marquette, who explored the valley of the Mississippi. On one of his expeditions to the Illinois Indians he was taken sick. In the spring of i675 his Indian followers carried him to Lake Michigan and embarked upon its waters. As they sailed along its eastern shores, the dying missionary, realizing that his end was at hand, requested the Indians to approach the land, and in a short time his pure soul passed away. His followers buried the body and erected above it a large cross. Years afterward his bones were removed to an Indian chapel. At this day, however, the place of his death and the spot of his interment are unknown, but any frequenter of the northern summer resorts of Michigan will remember with what minuteness of detail many different places are pointed out by enthusiastic and visionary guides as the exact spots of Father Marquette's death and burial. The next white man to visit Western Michigan was LaSalle, who in i679 established a trading post at Mackinaw, and built a fort at the mouth of the St. Joseph River. These were the first permanent white settlements in Western Michigan, and for more than a century there was little or no change in the Indian occupancy of the country. French voyageurs annually traversed the eastern shores of Lake Michigan from Mackinaw to St. Joseph, and gathered rich cargoes of furs, which were shipped to Quebec by way of Detroit and Frontenac. These expeditions were generally in the spring, when the Indians would meet the traders at the mouths of the rivers and sell them the furs which had been captured during the winter, and in the late summer or early autumn they would visit the trading posts at St. Joseph, Mackinaw, Saginaw and Detroit for supplies to carry with them on their winter hunts. Such was the annual routine of Indian life in Western Michigan a hundred and fifty years ago. French hunters visited the country, renounced civilization, married Indian wives, and became more Indian than the Indians themselves. Without doubt more than a century ago every Indian village in Western Michigan had been visited by the white man. Among the results of the old French war was the transfer of the control of the Northwest from the French to the English. About I760, the trading posts of Michigan were surrendered to the English, who at once began to make extensive preparation for extending and increasing the trade of the country. The Indians rebelled against the change, and prepared for war. The leading spirit was Pontiac, an Ottawa chief of Eastern Michigan. He visited tribe after tribe, and village after village, to unite them in a conspiracy against the English. In April, I76I, a grand council was held at Grand Rapids. Over three thousand Indians were present, and every band in Michigan was represented. Pontiac was present, and fired his hearers with noble specimens of Indian oratory and unstudied eloquence. He contrasted the English with the French; the pride, arrogance and rapacity of the one, with the gentility, suavity and justice of the other. He cited instances of English neglect and contempt of the red men, and argued that as the English had supplanted the French, they would in time overpower the Indians, and that the latter could maintain their rights only by war. Every Indian in the valley sympathized with Pontiac, and two years after, when he laid siege to Detroit, his camp was filled with warriors from Western Michigan. But the eloquence, bravery and sagacity of Pontiac were insufficient to expel the English, and after the Treaty of Paris in 1763, the latter were practically supreme in North America. The power of the French had passed away, and the days of the Indian occupancy were numbered. Defeat was too much for the proud spirit of Pontiac. He deserted Michigan, and went to live among the Illinois 9G HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Indians, where he was soon after murdered. During the Pontiac war the English garrisons of both Mackinaw and St. Joseph were massacred. At Mackinaw the soldiers were induced to attend an Indian game of ball near the fort, and when thrown off their guard they were attacked and nearly all murdered. A few escaped, after some of the most remarkable adventures in the whole history of barbarous captivities. It is estimated that about seventy white persons were killed in the Mackinaw massacre. The place was deserted for more than a year, but was finally reoccupied by a detachment of British troops sent for the protection of the English traders in the Northwest. The garrison at St. Joseph numbered fifteen. The Indians visited the fort apparently with pacific intentions. They were received within the walls, when, at a given signal, they attacked the garrison and killed them all but four, who, including the commander, were taken captives and conducted to Detroit, where they were finally exchanged for Indian prisoners there held by the English. After the Pontiac war the Indian occupancy of Western Michigan was unchanged for many years. The general policy of the English toward the natives of the Northwest was the same as that of their predecessors. The same posts were maintained and, as far as possible, the same agents were employed. Rival fur companies contended for the trade of the country and catered for the good will of the Indians. During the revolution, under the instigation of British officers at Mackinaw and Detroit, Indians from the Grand River Valley engaged in depredations and warfare along the Virginia, Pennsylvania and New York borders. Early in the present century a trading post was founded by the American Fur Company in the Grand River Valley, and, strange as it may seem, it was established by a French woman, Madame Laframboise. It was located on the banks of Grand River, about two miles west of the present village of Lowell. She lived there and traded with the Indians until 1821, when she was superseded by Rix Robinson, who purchased her entire establishment. At the close of the revolution the posts of the Northwest remained in the hands of the British, and were not surrendered until 1796. Many Indians of Western Michigan engaged in the battles of Ohio and Indiana fought by Harmer, St. Clair, Wayne and Harrison, during the years between the Revolution and the War of i812. It was during those years that the second great confederation of the Indians of the Northwest was brought about by the wily Tecumseh. He probably never visited the Grand River Valley himself, but sent his agents, who secured many recruits for the warriors who fought at Tippecanoe. A forge was erected on the banks of the Kalamazoo River, where renegade white men made hatchets and scalping knives for the Indians who fought under Tecumseh at Tippecanoe and on the side of the British during the War of 1812. The surrender of General Hull at Detroit placed the Northwest posts again under the control of the British. During that war most of the Indians of Michigan espoused the cause of Great Britain, but there were a few who proved faithful friends of the Americans, and were afterward generously remembered when treaties were negotiated with their people by the United States. And Great Britain did not forget her savage allies. From the close of the war until 1834 the Indians of Southern Michigan annually visited Maiden to receive from the British Government annuities for their services during the war. At the close of the war American garrisons were again placed in the forts at St. Joseph and Mackinaw, and American settlers commenced pouring into Michigan. The Indian supremacy was rapidly passing away. 'I'REATY MAKIN(;. By the ordinance of 1787 the civil authority of the United States was extended over MISSIONS FOR THE INDIANS. 37 the Northwest Territory. In I805 Michigan was set aside as a separate Territory, and after the war of 1812 there was a great demand for land for speculative purposes. There was much intriguing and lobbying, and great pressure was brought to bear upon the General Government to secure Indian lands in Michigan. In 182i Governor Cass and Solomon Sibley were commissioned by the General Government to negotiate a treaty with the Ottawas, Chippewas and Potawatomies, and secure certain lands in Western Michigan. During the summer the commissioners met the Indians at Chicago, and on August 29 a treaty was completed and signed. By its terms the Indians ceded to the United States the lands south of the main stream of the Grand River, with certain small reservations for individual Indians and halfbreeds, and a few small tracts for the use of the tribes. In consideration of the cession the United States engaged to pay to the Ottawas one thousand dollars in specie annually forever, and for a term of ten years to appropriate annually to the Ottawas the sum of fifteen hundred dollars to be expended in the support of a blacksmith, of a teacher and of a person to give instructions in agriculture and to purchase cattle and farming utensils. One mile square was to be selected on the north side of Grand River, and within the Indian lands not ceded, upon which the teachers and blacksmith should reside. The treaty was signed by Lewis Cass and Solomon Sibley on behalf of the United States, and on behalf of the Ottawa Indians by Ke-wa-goush-cum, No-kaw-jigaun, Kee-o-to-aw-be, Ket-che-me-chi-nawaw, Ep-pe-sau-se, Kay-nee-wee, Mo-aput-to, and Mat-che-pee-na-che-wish. MISSIONS FOR THE INDIANS. Soon after the treaty was negotiated, Rev. Isaac McCoy, an Indian missionary acting under the auspices of the Board of Managers of the Baptist Missionary Convention of the United States, visited Governor Cass at Detroit in behalf of the Indians, and to secure the management of the teacher and blacksmith who, according to the treaty, were to be sent to the Ottawas at Grand Rapids. Subsequently he was appointed to superintend the United States officers sent to carry out the provisions of the treaty. Governor Cass gave elaborate instructions, dated July I6, 1822, to McCoy, and directed that ardent spirits should as far as possible be kept from the Indians. John Sears, of New York city, was appointed teacher for the Ottawas, and Charles C. Trowbridge was commissioned to make definite arrangements with the Indians for a site of a missionary station on Grand River. Sears and Trowbridge visited the Grand River Valley in the fall of 1822, and selected a site, after which they returned to Fort Wayne. McCoy visited the valley the.next spring, and on May 30, I823, crossed the Grand River near the rapids. He found the Indians dissatisfied with the treaty, and was received with anything but a hospitable welcome. The chief was not at the village, and nearly all the inhabitants were in a state of intoxication by liquor obtained from some traders. McCoy at once abandoned the expedition, and returned to a mission which had been established on the St. Joseph River, and which was called Carey. The next year McCoy visited the Ottawas on the Kalamazoo River, and induced them to let him establish a blacksmith shop on the border between the Ottawa and Potawatomie territories. This modified the temper of the Ottawas for a time, and opened the way for further operations. In November, i824, McCoy, with several companions, left the St. Joseph River for a second visit to the rapids of Grand River. On reaching the border of the Ottawa country they found that the blacksmith shop built the preceding year had been burned by the Indians, who still felt unfriendly to the whites because of the Chicago treaty. On November 27 they 28 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. reached Gun lake, and encamped upon its banks. The next day they were visited by Noonday, the Ottawa chief of the Indian village at the Rapids, who, with some followers, was camping on the opposite side of the lake. McCoy found that Noonday was desirous of having a mission established at the Rapids, and the next day both the whites and the Indians raised camp and proceeded together toward Grand River. On December i, the river was reached and crossed. The same day IMcCoy selected a site for a mission, which was located just south of where is now the corner of West Bridge and Front streets. The selection was afterward approved by Governor Cass, and confirmed by the Secretary of War. The site selected two years before by Sears and Trowbridge is supposed to have been several miles up the river, but the exact spot chosen is now unknown. The next day McCoy started on his return to the St. Joseph River, and was accompanied a portion of the way by Noonday. The next spring Mr. Polke (teacher), a blacksmith, and two or three others were sent to the Rapids by McCoy to open the mission, but they found a great majority of the Indians still hostile to the project, and were obliged to depart without accomplishing their object. Soon afterward Polke returned to the Rapids, and found a great change in the sentiment of the Indians. They expressed regret for their former action, and wished to have the mission at once established. In September, i825, farming utensils, mechanical tools and provisions were sent by boat down the St. Joseph River, along the lake shore and up the Grand River to the Rapids, while McCoy, with several assistants, traveled overland to the same place. Permanent log buildings were at once erected on the site chosen the year before, and the mission was fully established. INDIAN VILLAGES AND CHIEFS. When the mission was founded there were two Indian villages at the Rapids. One was situated along the west side of the river from West Bridge street north; the other was in the neighborhood of where is now West Fulton street, with its center near the corner of Watson and West Broadway streets. The south village was the larger, and numbered three hundred inhabitants or more. It was presided over by a chief named Me-gis-o-nee-nee (Mex-ci-ne-ne), or the Wampum-man. He was an eloquent speaker and a man of influence among his people. The Indian commissioners always found him wary in negotiations and slow to accept their overtures. He was of an aristocratic, haughty disposition, and was something of a dandy in the matter of dress. While at Washington to negotiate the treaty of 1836 he was presented by President Jackson with a suit of new clothes, of which he was very proud, and with it insisted upon having a high hat with a mourning badge. He was among the foremost of his people to adopt the white man's ways. His habits were good, and he lived and died in the Catholic faith. In the year i843 his existence was terminated by a sudden illness, and his funeral was attended by nearly every citizen of Grand Rapids, white as well as red. Another Indian chief living at the lower village was Muck-i-ta-o-ska, or Blackskin, who in his early years was an active foe of the Americans. He fought with the British in the War of I812, and is said to have been the leader of the band who set fire to the village of Buffalo during that war. He lived to a great age and died in I868. The chief of the upper village at the Rapids was Qua-ke-zik (Noonday), a friendly, industrious Indian, who always worked for the good of his people, and was among the first to obtain the favor of the whites. He was happy in his domestic relations, and a man of excellent habits. Old settlers often speak of his fine physique. Fully six feet tall, well proportioned, and a noble looking man, he was well advanced in years when the Grand River Valley was first visited by INDIAN VILLAGES AND CHIEFS. 29 American settlers. He died at Gull Prairie in i840, and a plain stone slab marks his grave. He also fought with the British during the War of I812. Henry Little, of Kalamazoo, once wrote this amusing description of Chief Noonday and his squaw: His Serene Highness, Mr. Noonday, was a tall, straight, well proportioned, well constructed specimen of the Nish-a-nob-bee race. He was reserved,solemn, demure and dignified in his deportment. Her ladyship, Mrs. Noonday, was a short, dumpy, unassuming lady of the old school. Nature had not seen fit to make her very attractive by the bewitching, fascinating charms of personal beauty; and what little there might have been of feminine comeliness in her features had been sadly marred by an ugly scar upon the left side of her face. It was a general belief in the days of the settlement of Grand Rapids that Noonday was at the burning of Buffalo. A settler of i835 asserts that the chief told him that he assisted in kindling the fire. On the other hand, it is stated that just before his death Noonday denied that story. The chief of the Flat River Indians was Cob-mu-sa, or the \Walker. He was the husband of three wives and treated each with the respect and consideration due the consort of a mighty chief. Aside from the number of his wives his morals were good. In personal appearance he was not the equal of his neighbors. tie was a little below medium height and inclined to corpulency. It is said that there was Negro blood in his veins. In his last days he became a vagrant and a drunkard. His village was about two miles from the junction of Flat and Grand Rivers, and was one of the largest in the valley. It numbered three hundred inhabitants or upward. At the Thornapple River, or Ada, there was a small band of Indians, of whom Ma-ob-binna-kiz-hick, or Hazy Cloud, was the chief. Although of small stature, he was a man of commanding influence with his tribe. He was on the most friendly terms with the whites, visited Washington, and was one of the leading spirits in the treaty of 1836. His sister was the wife of Rix Robinson. Between the Thornapple River and the Rapids there were a few families who were tinder the authority of Canote, a chief who stood high in the estimation of the early settlers. Below the Rapids, at the mouth of Crockery Creek, was a small Indian village of which Sag-e-nish, or the Englishman, was chief. As his name implied, he was a great friend of the white men. At Battle Point, a few miles above Grand Haven, was another Indian village, whose chief was O-na-mon-ta-pe, or Old Rock. At Black Lake, near Holland, there was a village numbering less than three hundred, which was ruled over by a chief named Wa-ka-zoo. In 1848 he, with his band, removed to Grand Traverse, where he soon after died. In his last years he became a drunken vagabond. In Ionia county there were two Indian villages of importance on the Grand River. One was at Lyons, where the prairie was used for a cornfield for ages, and the other was near the mouth of the Lookingglass River. The latter was called Mis-she-mino-kon, or the Apple Field. It was abandoned by the Indians at an early day. Among the Indians of the valley there were other chiefs than those already mentioned. There was Pa-mos-ka, a leading chief whose home was many times changed, but who generally lived in the villages down the river, at Crockery Creek and Battle Point. There were Ke-way-coosh-cum, or Long Nose, and Wa-ba-sis, both of whom fell victims to Indian vengeance for the part they took in the treaties with the whites. The former was killed in a drunken brawl by an Indian named XVas-orge-naw. Each had come to Grand Rapids to receive his annual stipend on payment day, and having been paid became intoxicated. They were sitting on the bank of the river, near the mouth of Coldbrook Creek, when a dispute arose relative to the treaty, and Was-o-genaw seized a club and felled his victim to the earth with a blow that killed him on the 30 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. spot. The matter was not investigated by the officers of the law because it was considered that he was executed in accordance with the Indian custom and idea of justice. Because of the prominent part he took in the treaties Wa-ba-sis was exiled from his tribe. For many years he lived alone on the bank of a small lake in the northern part of Kent county. In an unguarded moment he was induced by his enemies to partake in a corn feast at Plainfield, where he was made drunk and then murdered. He was buried near where is now the Plainfield bridge. The head of the body was left above the ground, and food and tobacco for many weeks were daily placed on the grave for the nourishment and comfort of his spirit on its journey to the happy hunting grounds. Another noted chief was Okemos, who lived near Lansing for many years. He died in I858, upward of one hundred years old. He was in his early days a warrior of undoubted bravery. Upon his breast was a huge cicatrix made by a sabre in the hand of one of Mad Anthony's troopers. He fought at Fort Meigs,.and received wounds in his head which, it seemed, would have killed any human being but an Indian. There were scars in his skull in which three fingers could be placed. He was buried at Mis-she-min-o-kon, the old Indian village near Portland. INDIAN NAMES. That the Indians were a poetical people to some degree, is shown by their names of the rivers of Western Michigan. The St. Joseph River was O'-sang-e-wong-se-be, or the Sauk Indian River. It was so named because, according to tradition, the spirit of a Sauk Indian wandered along its banks. New Buffalo River was Kosh-kish-ko-mong, or the-diving-kitten. The Paw Paw River was Nim-me-keg-sink, which means the Paw Paw River. Kalamazoo is an English corruption of the Indian name of the river, which was Kik-ken-a-ma-zoo, or the Boiling Kettle, so named from its eddying waters. South Haven was called Muck-i-ta-woggo-me, or the Black Water. Macatawa is an English corruption of the same name. Grand River was called 0-wash-ta-nong, or the-far-away-water, so named because it was the longest river in the territory. Thornapple River was called Me-nos-so-gos-oshe-kink, or the Forks. Flat River was called Coh-boh-gwosh-she, meaning the Shallow River. The Indian name of Maple River was Shick-a-me-o-she-kink, which means the Maple River. Muskegon is one of the Indian names of the country which has not been changed by the whites. It means the Tamarack River, and was so called because of the number of tamarack trees along the banks. White River was called Wan-be-gun-gwesh-cup-a-go, or theriver-with-white-clay-in-its-bank. Manistee means the-river-with-white-bushes-on-thebank, which referred to the white poplar trees on its borders. CEI)ING 'IHE 1ANI)S NORTH OF GRAND RIVER. In March, I836, a treaty was negotiated at Washington, by which the Indians ceded to the United States the lands north of Grand River. There were seventy thousand acres reserved north of the Pere Marquette River, fifty thousand acres on Little Traverse Bay, twenty thousand acres on the north shore of Grand Traverse Bay, and various other small reservations in different parts of the country. In consideration of the cession, the United States Government agreed to pay the Indians of Western Michigan the sum of $ i 8,ooo annually for twenty years. A sum of $5,000 annually for twenty years was to be appropriated for teachers, books in the Indian language and school houses; $io,ooo for agricultural implements, cattle, mechanical tools and other articles; $2,000 annually for provisions, and $300 annually for medicines. The Indians were to receive $I 50,000 worth of goods and provisions, which were to be delivered on the A SUPPLEMENTAL TREATY-THE ANNUAL PAYMENTS. 31 ratification of the treaty; $300, ooo was appropriated to pay off the just debts of the Indians, and $150,000 for the half-breeds of the tribes. Various sums of money were to be paid to individual Indians. The Grand River Valley chiefs received $500 each, and to Rix Robinson was granted $23,000. This generous treaty was signed by Henry Schoolcraft for the United States, and by twenty chiefs for the Indians. Of these chiefs three-Wabi-wid-i-go, Mix-i-ci-ninny and Na-bun-a-guzhig (names as they appear on the treaties) -represented Grand River tribes; the rest were from other parts of the State. There were some thirty chiefs in all in this valley at the time. The witnesses were John Hulbert, Lucius Lyon, R. P. Parrot, U. S. A.; W. P. Zantzinger, U. S. N.; Josiah F. Polk, John Holiday, John A. Drew, Rix Robinson, Leonard Slater, Louis Moran, Augustus Hamelin, Jr., Henry A. Levake, William Lasley, Geo. W. Woodward and C. 0. Ermatinger. As soon as the Washington treaty of 1836 was completed a land office was opened at Ionia, and the lands north of Grand River were rapidly taken by settlers. By the conditions of the treaty the Indians could hunt on the public lands of the United States, and for many years they remained in the country and availed themselves of the privilege. The annual payments which they were to receive under the treaty were made at Grand Rapids, and continued for more than twenty years. At the early payments near four thousand Indians received their pay here, but they decreased as the years went by. The Potawatomies were early sent to their reservation in Indiana, while the Chippewas were transferred to reservations in Northern Michigan. Separate bands of Ottawas were at different times transported beyond the Mississippi, and many individual Indians fled beyond the Mississippi, as they were ostracised by their own people or threatened with legal prosecutions by the whites. A SUPPLEMENTAL TREATY. On the 3ist of July, I855, at Detroit, another treaty, in place of the treaty of i836, was made with the Ottawas and Chippewas of Michigan, by the United States Indian Agent, Henry C. Gilbert, by which they were to receive annually a cash annuity of $22,000 for ten years, and at the end of that time the Government was to pay them $200,000, in four annual payments of $5o,ooo each, or, if the Indians so elected, they were to receive the interest on that sum held in trust by the United States. There was also to be distributed among them $i5,ooo worth of agricultural implements, and a grant was made of $8,ooo for educational purposes. Four blacksmith shops were to be maintained for their use, and five interpreters were to be furnished. In addition to their share of the above the Grand River Indians were to receive an annuity of $3,500. They were also to have eight townships of public lands which were to be preserved for them ten years, at the end of which time they could sell the same at pleasure. By this Detroit treaty any Indian of Michigan was granted the privilege of renouncing his tribal relations and becoming a citizen of the United States; and through the influence of Mr. Gilbert many of them purchased and settled upon Government land. In I855 about one thousand Indians received their annuities at Grand Rapids. The last payment at this place was made October 29, I857, when $o,0ooo was paid in gold and silver to about one thousand five hundred Indians, squaws and pappooses. After that date the payments were made at Pentwater. THE ANNUAL PAYMENTS. Indian payments were events in the early history of Grand Rapids. The Government agents would send word that a certain date would be pay day, and the Indians would begin to congregate ten days or two weeks before. They camped upon the islands, and along the river banks, and in the bushes 32 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. on the higher grounds. Payments were generally made in the fall, before the Indians started for their winter hunts. The agents usually paid at one of the warehouses which stood near the old steamboat landing between Waterloo street and the river. In a large room would be a long table, or counter, upon which were the receipts and little piles of coin for each Indian, and about which were seated the agents, clerks and interpreters. The Indians would enter the front door one by one, sign their receipts or make their marks thereon, receive their money and walk out at the back door, where stood a crowd of hungry traders, who quickly transferred most of the money from the hands of the Indians to their own pockets, for the payment of old debts. The traders commonly claimed all they could see, and the Indians, as a rule, gave it up without protest. They were generally in debt, but were always ready to pay when they had any money. The traders never hesitated to give credit to an Indian. One who traded with them for years at Grand Rapids, states that annually he sold thousands of dollars worth of goods to the Indians on credit, and during all that time he lost less than a hundred dollars on poor accounts. The next day after payment the Indians always departed, none remaining but the drunkards and vagabonds, who staid behind for a debauch. The Enquirer, of November 2, i841, refers to the fact that in the week previous was the Indian payment, and facetiously adds that there were about fifteen hundred Indians, two traders to each Indian, and two gallons of diluted whisky to each trader. The editor inquires, seriously: " Is there no remedy for this barbarous and wicked system of robbery? " There appears, however, to have been some improvement the next year (i842), when the Paymaster stated that there was much less dissipation among the Indians at Grand Rapids than at any other place where he had made payment, and the newspaper testified that "No bar rels were rolled out as heretofore, and the heads knocked in that the savage might be allowed to gorge his fill of the destroyer." TRAI)E WITH THE INDIANS. In the early days of the settlements, the Indian trade of the Grand River Valley was of no small importance. The Indians traded furs, berries and maple sugar for dry and fancy goods, ammunition and whisky. Beads and whisky were legal tender to an Indian. The furs were sent to Detroit, while the berries were packed in barrels and shipped to Buffalo. Maple sugar, if sent away, was generally consigned to commission merchants in Boston and New York. During the busy season Indians would camp about the huckleberry swamps and cranberry marshes, pick the berries and then deliver them at Grand Rapids. They were carried by squaws, or transported by ponies. Much maple sugar was brought to the Rapids by water. During the spring Grand River was alive with canoes bringing sugar which had been made by the squaws in all portions of the valley. It was stirred sugar, packed in "mokirks," which were small baskets or boxes, and the packages ranged in weight from one to sixty pounds. The smaller mokirks were often elaborately decorated by the squaws with fancy work. There was such sharp competition in the fur trade that the local traders would not wait for the Indians to bring their furs to market, but would often send messengers with goods directly to the Indian camps. Late in the fall the Indians would separate, and each family would go into camp for hunting and trapping during the winter, when the traders in the Rapids would dispatch men for the furs. Each went by himself, and his equipment generally consisted of an Indian guide and a pony. The Indian carried a pack of about fifty pounds weight, while the pony carried all that could be piled on him. The loads consisted of provisions for the traders and fancy goods LEARNING SOCIAL WAYS-FUNERAL RITES. 33 for trade. No whisky was carried on such expeditions. When an installment of furs was secured the Indian was sent back to the Rapids with a pack of furs, while the white man continued his journey, and was afterward joined by his dusky companion, who brought a fresh supply of goods. When the snow was too deep for the pony he would be abandoned, and the men would continue the search for Indians and furs, on snow shoes. By such methods did each trader endeavor to get the start of his rivals. Each kept several men in the forests all winter. Grand Haven, Allegan, Saugatuck, Gun Lake, Gull Prairie, Thornapple River, Lyons, Lookingglass River, Maple River, were all visited and canvassed over and over again for furs. Furs were always a staple article and commanded about the following prices in trade: Beaver, $I.25 a pound, weighed by hand, which means that the trader guessed at the weight and paid the Indian accordingly. It is needless to add that the furs never fell short of weight when weighed at the warehouse. Mink commanded from fifty cents to $i. Smoke skin (buckskin), $i each. Martin, $I to $I.25; lynx, $i to $I.25; muskrat, five cents each. Wolf and bear skins were not of much value. Fashions did not change, and the above prices continued for years. The squaws always smoked and prepared the skins for market. Other staple articles of commerce were moccasins, which were made by the squaws. They were always elaborately ornamented with beads, and often days were spent on a pair of moccasins which sold for fifty cents or a dollar. I1 ARNIN(; SOCIA1, WAY'S. The Indians of the valley were very social in certain ways. When Grand Rapids was only a trading post the French traders, among whom were the Campaus and Godfroys, called upon their lady friends upon New Year's Day and saluted them with a 3 kiss upon each cheek. The Indians quickly adopted the fashion of the Frenchmen, with this change-the squaws called upon the white men, and the unlucky pale face who was kissed by a squaw on New Year's Day was obliged to give her a drink of whisky. No white man escaped, for, if one squaw alone could not secure the coveted forfeit, she called to her aid enough of her dusky sisters to throw the victim down and then each kissed him in turn. The result was that the squaws frequently became gloriously drunk, and woe to the white man who was kissed by them while they were in that condition, since they did not hesitate to use violence to obtain the desired reward. While the squaws and white men were having rough and tumble scuffles at the stores and taverns, the Indians often visited the kitchens of the white women, where they were treated to doughnuts, cookies and other eatables. An Indian always made a call by first peeping in at the window and then entering at the door without knocking. The Indians were persistent beggars, but were generally refused food by the white women, except on New Year's Day. They were not at all modest in their demands. It is related that the wife of one early settler, who had recently arrived from the East and was unacquainted with Indian ways, placed her full supply of provisions upon the table when the first dusky callers appeared, expecting, of course, that they would take a few pieces and go away; but nothing abashed they suddenly produced some bags, gathered in all the eatables, and departed, without leaving the family enough for a dinner. That woman's confidence in the character of the 'noble red man was very much shaken by the incident, and ever after she was careful that no Indian should know the extent of the stores in her pantry. FUNERAL RITES. The Indians of Grand River Valley did not differ materially from other American 34 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Indians in their general habits and customs. In caring for their dead they observed peculiar rites and ceremonies. A few days after the burial the relatives of the deceased gave a feast to the friends of the departed, who repaired to the grave where the food was distributed. If the feast was prepared by a man, none but men attended; if by a woman, none but women attended. Each one, before partaking, placed a small portion of food on the head of the grave for the use of the departed on his long journey to the happy hunting grounds. When the party consisted of warriors, elaborate addresses were made, and the virtues of the dead were chanted. If it were a gathering of females, and if one of the company were considered profligate, she was not allowed to make an offering to the dead, but another received her portion of the feast and offered it for her. After the offerings were made, the remainder of the feast was eaten by the company. The feasts were annually repeated. Among the Ottawas it was customary to place at the head of the grave a post, which by its size indicated the age of the deceased. About the post were hieroglyphics which illustrated the heroic deeds of the dead. Near the post was generally placed a small stick about two feet -long, which a visitor used to strike the post and announce his arrival to the dead. McCoy, on one of his early visits to Grand Rapids, refers to the fact that his party met a company of squaws carrying kettles of food to the grave of a child who had died a short time previously. Gurdon S. Hubbard, of Chicago, in a paper read before the Michigan Pioneer Society, describes an Indian funeral feast as follows: On our way to Mackinaw in the spring of I819, hearing that the Indians on the eastern coast of Lake Michigan would hold a feast for the dead at the mouth of Grand River, in the full of the May moon, we determined to be present at the ceremonies. The feast consisted first in clearing away the ground around the graves, putting them in perfect order, and erecting slender poles at the head of each grave, at the tops of which were attached strips of white cloth for streamers. At the head of each grave a small place was staked off in which food was placed for the souls of the dead. All except the young children blackened their faces, and fasted two days, eating nothing nor engaging in any amusement, spending their time in silence or lamentations for the loss of their friends. At the expiration of two days of mourning, their faces were washed and painted, and dressing in their best attire and decorations they commenced feasting, entertaining and visiting; wishing their relatives to share with them the good things they had prepared, they placed in the inclosure at the heads of the graves dishes of food. This feast is followed by their celebrated game of ball, which is intensely exciting-even the dogs become exhilarated, and add to the commotion by barking and racing. INDIAN INTRACTABI LITY. It is a source of wonder to those who have never given the subject careful attention that the Indians, by contact with a superior civilization and the continued efforts of teachers and missionaries, did not renounce their savage ways and habits and learn to live like their white neighbors; but experience has shown that the Indians, as a race, are incapable of civilization. Even the most favorable circumstances cannot eradicate from an Indian's heart his love of a savage life. In the spring of I838, during the days of an Indian payment at which, it is said, more than one thousand two hundred, of several different tribes, were present, a few young people were practicing for choir service, singing with flute accompaniment, in the counting-room of the store of A. H. Smith, on Waterloo street. A crowd of the natives gathered to enjoy the music and admire the instruments. One who was present related the incident several years ago in the columns of the New York Christian Unzon, and from his story the following is extracted: Great was our surprise when from the assembled crowd of savages a young brave of about twenty-five years, as dirty and as unkempt as any of his associates, picked up the Boston Handel and Hadyn note book, from which we.had been playing, and turned over the leaves as any of his rude companions INDIAN INTRACTABILITY. 35 would have done, apparently wrapped in a sort of dazed admiration, as we supposed, of the fabric and the printing, always so mysterious to the superstitious savage. But suddenly, with kindling eye and flushing cheek, he beckoned from the crowd one of his companions-a young man about his own age, and, like himself, a thorough-bred savage in appearance-and turning pleasantly to us and pointing to the tune indicated, in unexceptionable English said: ' Will you play 'St. Martin's,' if you please? " which I wonderingly did, carrying the air with the flute, when he taking the tenor and his companion the bass, they sang from the book the words of the hymn as sweetly and as correctly as the best of us of the Court House choir could have done; and not only that, but through tune after tune, and hymn after hymn, anthems and all, for an hour or more the young savage led the way with a fluency and correctness as to both music and words which demonstrated no superficial ear-work, but knowledge born of much study and intelligent practice; and his companion was not one whit behind him. Here now was a new thing, and of a most surprising nature. A full-blooded Potawatomie with moccasins and leggins, calico shirt, gay cotton head-dress, ringed ears, blankets, and above all that indescribable Indian odor of blended wood-smoke, fish and muskrat, and yet with the manners of a gentleman, and the accent of a scholar, singing readily by note our most elaborate hymn tunes and set pieces; and here too was an apparently equally accomplished companion, but equally dirty and unkempt, and of equally pure Indian blood, accompanying him. Of course there must be a history behind it, and as there were yet to be two or three days remaining before the camps would be broken up, we set ourselves to the work of winning the confidence of these wondrous savages and learning their history. This is in substance what they told us: Their names (as known among the whites) were Adoniram Judson and George Dana Boardman. They were two of the Indian boys (Potawatomies) selected by the Rev. Isaac McCoy from among the pupils of the Carey Mission School, then located south of the St. Joseph River, in Michigan. It was part of Mr. McCoy's plan, as appears from his history of the Mission, to fit for enlarged usefulness among their countrymen some of his most hopeful Christian pupils. His own language is simply expressive. He says: "We were allowed the peculiar felicity of church fellowship with a considerable number of our Indian pupils; and from among them we proposed to make a selection of some who appeared to possess the most promising talents, whom we should endeavor to qualify for superior usefulness." This was in 1826, and Judson and Boardman were two of the seven youths who that year entered the Literary and Theological Institute (now Madison University) at Hamilton, New York, to fit themselves for "superior usefulness among their own countrymen." These youths, as appears from their record while in college, were of unexceptionable character and deportment. As I afterward learned, they became to a degree the pets and proteges of the good citizens in and around Hamilton. All houses were open to their visits. They had full companionship with those of their own age, in all companies, and with both sexes. They became largely imbued with a devoted missionary spirit, and having completed their prescribed course of study, after several years' absence they returned to their destined field of labor, "fitted for superior usefulness among their own countrymen." And now we will let Judson, who was the chief speaker, give his own experience, and the substance of his explanation of his present condition. He said: "I went home among my own people full of purpose and sanguine expectation. They should have schools. They should have churches. They should learn mechanics and farming, and have crops and stock and books, and all the blessings of civilization. Our work was before us. We were young and strong and patient. What should hinder? So we thought. But everything did hinder. Our people did not want such things. They turned from us with contempt and derision. Our civilized clothing was an unceasing object of their ridicule. Our names, which they made ridiculous by their pronunciation, were a sign that we had renounced our parents and our people.* We were neither Indians nor white men. We were not wanted by either. Having no Indian virtues or accomplishments, we were useless in the woods; and the whites did not need us, for they were our superiors. Even the young girls, when we approached them, openly showed their contempt. At last we could no longer stand the scorn and ridicule which overwhelmed us. We gave it up in despair. Our own people fairly drove us away from them as useless and disagreeable members of their society. WVe left them, completely cowed and disheartened, and returned to the settlements. Hearing that a teacher was wanted for an academy at Gull Prairie, I presented my credentials of character and scholarship to the trustees, and was appointed Principal. Life now opened very brightly before me. I had a good school, loved teaching, loved my pupils, was active in religious meetings, taught the choir and singing school, and every house was open to my visits. The whole community seemed to love me, and I was happy. Especially was I fond of a bright and beautiful young lady, one of my best pupils. We went together everywhere; 36 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. to church, to singing school, evening parties and social visits. Everywhere she went with me, and seemed proud of my devotion. After a few months I proposed to marry her, and was referred to my warm friends, her parents. And this is what they said to me: 'What! you, an Indian, presume to address our daughter! Our daughter marry an Indian! You are crazy. She might as well marry a Negro. You will never be anything but an Indian for all your education. Remember this, and never presume again with your attentions. We are your friends, and if you will consider it, you will see that it must be as we state it.' All that night I did consider it. Crushed to the earth in my humiliation, bruised and half stunned by the cruel scorn which accompanied my rejection, I saw clearly that it could never be different. I was an Indian, and could never be anything but an Indian, God help me! So the next day I resigned my position, dismissed my pupils, gave away my broadcloth suit, boots, and beaver, put on moccasins, leggins and blanket, and took to the bush, where I shall thus live and die among my own people. This was three years ago, and for the future I can only be an Indian, as God has made me." A year or two later, these men, moccasined and blanketed, went west of the Mississippi with their people, carrying with them their gentle culture, fair scholarship and humbled aspirations. THE INDIAN STUDENT. From Susqehanna's utmost springs, Where savage tribes pursue their game, His blanket tied with yellow strings, The Shepherd of the Forest came. Not long before a wandering priest Expressed his wish, with visage sad"Ah, why," he cried, "in Satan's wasteAh, why detain so fine a lad? "In yonder land there stands a town, Where learning may be purchased low; Exchange his blanket for a gown, And let the lad to college go," From long debate the council rose, And, viewing Shalum's tricks with joy, To Harvard hall, o'er waste of snows, They sent the copper-colored boy. One generous chief a bow supplied; This gave a shaft and that a skin; The feathers, with vermillion dyed, Himself did from the turkey win. Thus dressed so gay, he took his way O'er barren hills, alone, alone; His guide a star, he wandered far, His pillow every night a stone. At last he came, with leg so lame, Where learned men talk heathen Greek; And Hebrew lore is gabbled o'er, To please the Muses, twice a week, Awhile he wrote; awhile he read; Awhile he learned the grammar rules; An Indian savage so well bred Great credit promised to their schools. Some thought ill law he would excel; Some said in physic he would shine; And some, who knew him passing well, Beheld in him a sound divine. But some, of more discerning eye, E'en then could other prospects show, They saw him lay his Virgil by, And wander with his dearer bow. The tedious hours of study spent, The heavy-moulded lecture done: He to the woods a-hunting went, But sighed to see the setting sun. No mystic wonders fired his mind; He sought to gain no learned degree; But only sense enough to find The squirrel in the hollow tree. The shady bank, the purling stream, The woody wild his heart possessed; The dewy lawn his morning dream, In fancy's gayest colors dressed. "And why," he cried, "did I forsake My native wood for gloomy walls; The silver stream, the limpid lake, For musty books and college halls? "A little could my wants supply; Can wealth and honor give me more? Or will the sylvan God of Day Give me the treat he gave before? "Let seraphs reach the bright abode, And heaven's sublimest mansions see; I only bow to Nature's God; The land of shades will do for me. "These direful secrets of the sky Alarm my soul with chilling fear. Do planets in their orbits fly? And is the earth indeed a sphere? "Let planets still their aims pursue, And comets round creation run; In Him, my faithful friend I view --- The image of my God-the Sun. "Where Nature's ancient forests grow, And mingled laurel never fades, My heart is fixed-and I must go, To die among my native shades." He spoke, and to the western springs, His gown discharged, his money spent, His blanket tied with yellow strings, The Shepherd of the Forest went. Returning to the rural reign, The Indians welcomed him with joy; The Council took him home again, And blessed the copper-colored boy. INDIAN ID)EAS OF' JUSTICE. In their primitive state the Indians had quite definite ideas of justice, and an elaborate system of punishments for crime. DEATH PENALTY-AN EXECUTION. 37 As they had few or no possessions, there were scarcely any crimes against property. The honesty of the Indians is well illustrated by a story related by Louis Campau. The old pioneer said: I remember long ago, when my pony died here, I hung my trading pack on the limb of a tree near the trail, and went to Detroit for another pony and new supplies. On coming back I found the pack contained nothing but chips. The Indians had found it and had distributed all it contained among themselves. Do you think they stole my goods? No. For every article appropriated I found a chip marked with the totem of the buyer. Before I could realize what had happened, a chief stood before me, shook me warmly by the hand, and asked me to enter the village to claim material in lieu of the totem-bearing chips. I accompanied the noble savage, and received exactly what the chips called for. That was the way the Indians used to steal. A few white men came, and there was a little trouble. A few more white men arrived, and there was more trouble. Then a lot came, and the Indians became bad, and times grew worse. Finally the Indians were relieved of their possessions. The greed of possession brings many evils upon a material civilization. For infidelity an Indian wife lost her nose, and her paramour suffered death. It is a sad reflection upon the morals of the white men that Indian women with mutilated faces multiplied as the settlers increased. It was in cases of murder that Indian law made its power chiefly felt. The rule was a life for a life. An Indian guilty of murder forfeited his own life to the relatives of his victim. The forfeit was not always immediately claimed. Sometimes it was months and even years before the criminal was called upon to expiate his crime, and during that time he enjoyed the utmost liberty, but the instance is not recorded where an Indian attempted to escape from the just punishment demanded by his own people. It was Indian law that the relatives of the person killed could accept goods and property from the criminal for an atonement. In such cases it was usual for the relatives of the dead to appropriate everything belonging to the criminal, even to stripping the last blanket from his shoulders. DEATH PENALTY —AN EXECUTION. An old Chicago pionetr (the late Gurdon S. Hubbard) relates that he once witnessed an Indian execution on the Manistee River, A Canadian Indian had married a woman of the Manistee band, and lived with them. In a drunken quarrel he killed a son of the chief. He could save his life by abandoning his family and fleeing to his own tribe, but, if he did so, one of his wife's brothers would doubtless be killed in his stead. He was poor and could make no payment of goods for expiation. Telling his wife's brothers where he could be found, he gathered together his traps and ammunition, and with his family departed, hoping to secure enough furs to make a proper payment. The chief demanded vengeance, and threatened to kill one of the brothers. In mid-winter the youngest brother went to the fugitive and told him the demand of the chief. The murderer promised to return in the spring Let the story of what followed be told in the words of the pioneer: One evening it was announced in our camp that on the morrow an Indian would deliver himself up. Early in the morning the chief made preparations. The place selected was in a valley surrounded by sand hills on which we traders and the Indians assembled. The chief and his family were in the valley where all who were on the hills had a full view' of them and the surroundings. It was a beautiful May morning. Soon after sunrise we heard the monotonous beating of the Indian drum, and the voice of the Indian singing his death song. Emerging from the, lake beach he came in sight, while his wife and children followed in single file. He came near the chief, still singing, and laid down his drum. His wife and children seated themselves. Then, in a clear voice, he said: "I ip a drunken moment stabbed your son, provoked to it by his calling me an old woman and a coward. I escaped to the marshes at the head of the Muskegon, hoping the Great Spirit would care for me and give me a good hunt that I might pay you for your lost son. I was not successful. Here is the knife that killed your son. I desire to be killed by it. It is all I 38 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. have to offer except my wife and children. I am done." The chief took the knife and handed it to his oldest son, saying, "kill him." The son took the knife, approached the culprit, put his hand upon his shoulder, made one or two motions to stab, and then drove the knife to the handle into his breast. Not a word was heard from the assembled Indians or the whites, not a sound but the songs of the birds; every eye was upon the noble Indian who stood without emotion looking upon his executioner. He received the blow calmly, nor did he shrink when it was given. For a few seconds he stood erect, the blood at every breath spurting from the wound, then his knees began to quiver, his eyes and face to lose expression. He fell upon the sand. All this time his wife and children sat motionless, gazing upon the husband and father, without a murmur or a sigh till life was extinct. Then, throwing themselves upon his dead body, they gave way to su'ch grief and lamentations as brought tears to the eyes of all. For fifteen or twenty minutes the chief and his family sat motionless, evidently feeling regret; then he rose, and approaching the body said in a trembling voice: "Woman, stop weeping! Your husband was a brave man; and like a brave man he was not afraid to die in satisfaction for the life of my son, as the rules of our nation demand. We adopt you and your children to be in the place of my son. Our lodges are open to you. Live with us, and we will treat you like our sons and daughters. You shall have our protection and love." I subsequently saw this mother and her children in their lodges. It is stated that in the early days of the white settlements in the Grand River Valley, an American mother intrusted her infant child to the keeping of an Indian girl, who, in a careless moment, allowed the little one to fall, which caused its instant death. The poor girl was at once bound as a prisoner and placed in the black wigwam. The savages chanted the death song, and inexorable Indian law claimed a victim. A few old settlers, among whom was Louis Campau, hearing of the matter went in haste to the Indian village, obtained an interview with the poor girl, and then sought a pardon from her savage but impartial judges. Reluctantly it was granted, but the Indians reserved the right to inflict capital punishment at any time the white mother should call "a life for a life." It is proper to add that the humane mother never demanded the sacrifice. In the fall of 1835, George Sizer was hunting one evening along a deer lick by Plaster Creek, south of Grand Rapids, when he was shot through the heart by an Indian who mistook him for a deer, through the thick bushes. Discovering his mistake, the slayer fled in haste to the Indian village at the Rapids, told his story and gave himself up to his fellows, who at once began to make preparations for his execution; for by Indian law his life was forfeited. The settlers heard of the matter, and hastened to intercede with the Indians for the life of the man who had accidentally killed a fellow being. It required much argument and persuasion to convince the Indians that no crime had been committed. It seemed impossible for them to conceive that intent should be a necessary ingredient of crime. At last the efforts of the settlers secured the release of the poor Indian. THE CRUEL I)EATH BY' FIRE. Stern savage law required that those who shed the blood of their kin should suffer death by torture. Such punishment was inflicted upon one at Maple River in 1853 by a band then encamped on the banks of that stream. An Ottawa, maddened by liquor, killed his squaw, threw her body upon the fire and then fled. He was pursued and captured, tried by a solemn council of his race and doomed to die a cruel death by slow, lingering torture. He was first compelled to assist in preparing his own coffin, from a hollow log. Then he was tied fast to a tree, and in the night time, during several nights in succession, was roasted by fires built so near him as to blister and burn, in addition to which arrows were shot into the tender parts of his body, his ears and nose were cut off, and his face and flesh scarified in all the cruel ways that savage ingenuity could suggest to intensify his torture. His tormentors would cease THE CRUEL DEATH BY FIRE. 39 in the morning and leave him to endure his pain through the day, while they feasted and slept, only to renew their horrid work when night came, and this they continued until the proud spirit of the savage left its earthly tenement. The story in all its details is too sickening for cold print. It is not recorded that the culprit victim gave way to any demonstrations of agony. They wrapped his body in a blanket and put with it in the log coffin, which he had helped to make, a bottle of whisky, a hunting knife, a pipe and some tobacco. Over the rude grave they piled logs and brush. The murdered squaw was thus avenged and the Indian sense of justice appeased. The camp was hastily broken up, and soon silence reigned supreme, as if Nature were awed by the terrible act of retribution there consumimated. During late years many Indians have abandoned the savage life and become citizens. In 1867 the Superintendent of Indian agencies reported that there were 8,008 Indians in Michigan, mixed bloods included; 3,823 males, and 4, I85 females. They were divided into about seventy distinct bands, each with a chief, and had 179 frame and 821 log houses. Many had settled upon lands, and were accumulating property. The value of their personal property at that time was estimated at $376,595, and they cultivated I0,772 acres of land. They had over two thousand homesteads. It is not hard to prognosticate the future of the Indians of Western Michigan. Nearly all who remain have adopted the white man's ways. They have taken their lands in 5everalty, and generally live in communities by themselves; but as the years go by they will inevitably become amalgamated with the whites, and as a race will disappear. It is easy to imagine that a century or two hence some lone Indian, the last of his race, may visit the Valley City, and standing on some eminence overlooking the valley, like the last of the Scotch Minstrels, contrast the joys and freedom of the Indian occupancy with the greed and selfishness of a material civilization. And who shall say that the contrast will not redound to the credit of the Indian race? Everett, in a little poem entitled "Cobmoosa's Lament," has a pathetic touch of sentiment for the Indians: My bow, my nerves, my heart are unstrung; My death song alone remains to be sung. The braves of my clan have sunk to their rest; Their children are gone to the North and the West; The forests have fallen, the land is sold. Our birthright is gone for the Christian's gold, And manhood has passed from the Indian's brow, Since he gave the soil to the white man's plow. As a son of the forest I lived in my pride; As sons of the forest my forefathers died. Till I go to the land where the bright waters shine, I'll live by their graves, and their grave shall be mine; I linger not long, my nerves are unstrung; My death song is ready, it soon will be sung. A statement printed in I879, gave 1o,250 as the number of Indians then in Michigan, classed as follows: Ottawas and Chippewas, 5,500; Chippewas of Lake Superior, including those of the Sault Ste. Marie, 2,000; Chippewas of Saginaw and thereabout, 2,000; Chippewas of Grand River, 500; Potawatomies, 250. This was only an approximate estimate, but was thought to be under rather than over the real number. From five to six hundred of their children were reported as attending schools. And everywhere in the State they were regarded as generally peaceful and law-abiding people. The United States census of I870 gave 4,926 as the number of Indians civilized or taxed in Michigan, and that of i88o gave 7,249, which shows a very large increase in that class of residents. The State census, so far as the Indian population is concerned, is comparatively worthless. The State, in the matter of enumeration, appears to have forgotten its original people altogether. Sentimentalize 40 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. as we may, or gloss it over as we will, the story of the American Indian is a sad one. It is true that large amounts have been paid in annuities, ostensibly for the heritage that has been taken from him by force or dissimulation. But only in the recent past has he been accorded the rights of a citizen on any terms. He has been treated as an outcast, and hunted like a wild beast. Our civilizing agencies have been scarcely better than fire and warfare undisguised. There is of late some reform and improvement, but the Indian problem is yet unsolved. A lClNI) OF THE OTTAWAS. The following interesting story was related and written long ago by Capt. Thomas NW. White, an early settler at Grand Haven, and in his later years a resident of Grand Rapids; known by all who were acquainted with him as a man of tenacious memory and strict truthfulness: Many years ago (about I845) I listened to a somewhat lengthy conversation between a gentleman of learning from the State of New York and an aged Indian Chief of the Ottawa tribe. I was so firmly impressed with the knowledge I gained of the Indian character, and their history as then unfolded, to me entirely new, that to this day that interview and what then took place, is perhaps almost as fresh in my mind as pending the conference. The Judge (for a Judge he was) stated that he had spent much time and money in endeavoring to ascertain the precise part played by and with the Six Nations (so-called) during the war with Great Britain, together with the then present state of feeling among the Indians. The meeting was not one of accident, but by request. The conversation was through one fully competent, in both the English and Indian languages. The answers to questions were given readily and with candor, leaving evidence upon my mind that he (the chief) was learned in the history cf his race as handed down by tradition. Whether an)y new facts were elicited, former research confirmed or contradicted, I did not learn. After questioning the old chief upon his favorite theme, he requested a history of the Ottawa tribe, as traditions had instructed him, from their first knowledge of the white man. He gave it without hesitation, and in a manner convincing those present that he was stating what he firmly believed, and it was in this wise: A long time since, when their home and hunting ground was on the Ottawa River, Canada, the principal chief of the tribe was seated in his wigwam; around him was playing his only child; over the fire hung his kettle of clay suspended by a rope of bark, while in the kettle was boiling his frugal meal. Either from decay or from the action off the fire, the rope became separated, throwing the contents of the kettle upon his idolized child, scalding it so that death soon resulted. Frantic with grief, the chief, day and night, in savage wailing paced in and around his lodge, until, worn out by weeping and sighing, he fell asleep While sleeping, he dreamed, or 'had a vision." In his vision a man appeared who, after endeavoring to comfort him, directed him to proceed down the river until he should discover a beautiful bird then shown him. He was told not to be discouraged by a day's march, but to persevere, and he would surely meet that which would be to him of lasting benefit; and not only to him, but to his tribe and their posterity. Revolving this, to him, supernatural appearance in his mind, he concluded that it was the Good Spirit that visited him, and if he obeyed his child would be restored. He therefore unhesitatingly proceeded on the journey, taking the course marked out in the vision. On a dark, foggy morning, he was startled by the crowing of a cock, the beautiful bird of his dream, and quickly beheld through the mist a man without color. Alarmed, he was about to flee, when the white man -poke kindly and beckoned him to his wigwam. Remembering the object for which he started, and the promise upon which he rested, he reluctantly followed this colorless being, so like himself in form. He was given numerous articles of use and ornament for himself and members of his tribe, with the request that they would exchange furs and skins for such as would contribute to their comfort, or assist in securing game. Among the presents was a kettle of iron or brass, with an iron rod or chain with which to hang it over the fire. His child was not restored, but he was the means of opening an advantageous trade, which had ever since been carried on between the white man and the Indian. The old chief then traced the wanderings of the tribe through different points in Canada, and to their final resting place in Michigan. They appeared to understand that a war was before them, and that they must conquer if they made a home for themselves and their posterity upon the hunting grounds of the Prairie tribe. They crossed near Mackinaw, and marched south, keeping a strong force in advance of the main body, to scour the country and prevent surprise. A LEGEND OF THE OTTAWAS. 41 They were unmolested until nearing Pere Marquette River, when their scouts announced the enemy in their path. The two armies met on the bank of P'ere Marquette Lake, where the principal battle took place. From the account of the engagement, as related by the chief, I was led to think that Indian tradition records few if any greater slaughters. Extermination appeared to have been the intention. The Ottawas were successful. The heads of the defeated, left upon the field and overtaken in the chase, were severed from their bodies and placed a little distance apart, their faces lakeward, at the water's edge around Pere Marquette Lake. Calling for a map, the aged Indian pointed out the extent thus occupied with the heads of their enemies. (I have been told that the French name of this river is not in use among the Indians, but that the name they give it is one signifying the slaughter, or the place of heads, or skulls). Following the carnage was the usual feast-mirth as well as feasting. At such feast some one was entitled to have served for him the choicest dish (in their estimation a mark of the greatest respect), the bear's tail. On this occasion the recipient was a chief of the Potawatomie tribe, who, with his followers, assisted them in the fight and, I think, was the guide on their journey. This so much offended three of the Ottawa chiefs that they withdrew with their clans, and never more identified themselves with the tribe. IPontiac, one of them, settled near Detroit, another on the river St. Joseph, and the third in the southeast part of the State. The last battle with the Prairies was upon Grand River, exterminating the tribe, and leaving their conquerors in undisputed ownership or possession of the country. After obtaining the foregoing history from the chief, the Judge inquired what was the feeling generally of the Indians in the Western States toward the people of the United States, and in the event of a war between this country and England, with whom they would cast their fortunes. Without hesitation he replied: "A very large majority with England." When asked concerning his own small band, somewhat initiated into the habits of civilization, his reply was that some of them would favor the British stand(lard, and flee thereto for protection, although they had never received aught but kindness since they had been in daily intercourse with the citizens of the States as neighbors and friends. The cause of this preference was asked. The reply was that the gaudy trappings of the British agents, indicating great wealth, in the estimation of the Indians, together with the reported bountiful presents of the British Government, were mainly the cause, connected with the story of the wrongs suf fered by their fathers, as handed down to them. Many, no doubt, would act or pretend to act in accordance with solemn treaties made and adhered to. "How were these treaties ratified," was asked, "and how recorded, that your people feel thus solemnly bound to adhere to?" Pointing to the stove, he said: "That stove is made of material that will decay; it will crumble and turn to dust, and cannot be found. Books and paper will decay also, and no trace of them be left. But silver will not corrode, and the wampum was placed between two plates of silver and bound with cords." When asked: "Have these pledges ever been renewed?" he answered: "Yes, often The great chiefs of the two nations meet and together draw still tighter the cords around the silver plates, renewing them if any signs of decay are visible." The last question to the chief was relative to his personal opinions and feelings. His manner, language and expression of countenance, when answering this interrogatory, are as distinct in my mind to-day as they were then to my ear and vision. They were touchingly eloquent. He straightened himself up in his seat, with his face turned full toward his interrogator, and an eye that seemed to reach out for a sympathetic response to his own feelings. He said: "Notwithstanding the great wrongs practiced by your fathers upon mine-driven by your strength, as we have been, from river and plain, that you might send out your race to be enriched upon our soil-I buried all my revengeful feelings, and when the hand of friendship was extended to me, I did not take hold of it with the tips of my fingers, that a little jostle might cast off, but made a firm grasp with my whole hand"-suiting the action to the expression, showing the firmness of the hold-'"which shall never be withdrawn by me!" The story thus related by the old chief is strongly like other traditions of the tribes who were here. Andrew J. Blackbird (Macke-te-be-nessy, son of the Ottawa chief, Mack-a-de-pe-nessy), in his history of the Ottawas and Chippewas, relates traditions of his own ancestors very similar in some points; as, for instance, he tells of their belief in supernatural visitations; of the loss of a child from among those who came first from the east up to the great lakes, which they believed was taken to a deep cavern; and of the finding by one of their noted chiefs, over two hundred and fifty years ago, of a large copper kettle, which they preserved as a sacred relic, and used for great feasts. 42 HIS TORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. He says the traditions give no reason fol the movement of the Ottawas at an early period toward the Northwest, but the supposition that it was to get away from their deadly enemies, the Iroquois of New York. Blackbird tells of the destruction, with terrible slaughter, of an Ottawa community at Arbor Croche, a continuous village some fifteen miles long, the home of forty thousand Indians or more. (This estimate of size and population of that village is undoubtedly very greatly overdrawn). His account in several respects agrees with other legends as to the course of those people southward along the western side of this peninsula, and the driving out by them of the earlier occupants, the Prairie tribes. The village of which he speaks was along or near the lake shore north of Little Traverse Bay. The paucity of material is an (ffectual bar to any satisfactory outcome from the study of early Indian history. Nearly all that has been discovered lies wrapped in mythological tradition. THE INDIANS AT' HOME. The houses of the Indians in their wild estate were neither hovels nor palaces. They knew no distinction of wealth or of poverty. They builded themselves nests of the most primitive pattern and the simplest uniformity. Many people of the present age have seen their huts of the original style of construction and material; but the great majority have not. The isolated family house was a wigwam, sometimes circular and sometimes angular in form on the ground, and sloping to an apex or a central ridge, where was a small opening which served for a chimney and skylight. Usually it was made of small saplings set in rows in the ground to form the sides, bent and withed together at the top, and these again covered or thatched with brush, or with bark, or with flags,and rushes, as a protection against wind and rain. Few, except in their villages, were larger than sufficient to hold one or two dozen persons closely crowded, with a small space in the center for the fire over which their game was roasted or their corn was cooked. Heated stones, instead of ovens or pans or kettles, were their cooking. utensils. Sometimes, in moving about, the poles for the frame work of the wigwam were moved also, for, before they had iron implements, with only stone hatchets and rude copper knives the work of cutting or breaking the bushes for use was no trifling labor. Inside the hut and under its sloping sides were rude benches constructed of poles and brush, a little raised from the ground, on which with skins of wild beasts, and with matting of reeds and grass and bark and small twigs dextrously woven by the squaws, they made beds. Literally it was but a trifling matter when they wished to move to take up their beds and walk. A small colony might plant themselves in the spring by a stream where fish and muskrats abounded, and four months afterward be jnany miles away, in the same huts, transported and made anew; the males in their hunting grounds and many of the females by their little cornfields, or where berries and nuts could be gathered. Some tribes, in villages, built very large or rather very long wigwams, or houses, which would shelter dozens of persons, or perhaps as many families. The wigwam of an old Ottawa chief at Arbor Croche, in the beginning of the present century, was sixty or seventy feet long; and some early explorers tell of seeing such habitations three or four times that length in the Indian villages of the Iroquois, Algonquins, and other tribes. These were often in shape like an arbor overarching a garden walk. The frame work of the sides was formed of saplings set in rows, with tops bent inward and lashed together. On these were poles for ribs fastened horizontally by means of withes or strips of bark. The outer covering was of sheets of bark, from any sort of timber that they could peel, overlapping each other like THE INDIANS AT HOME. 43 shingles on a roof; and to hold this in place other small poles were lashed outside, with strips of bark from the basswood or elm. In this form of wigwam the chimney was nearly a continuous opening, a foot or two wide, along the entire length of the ridge, tinder which the fires were in a line on the ground through the center. Usually each fire sufficed for two families, who, in winter, slept closely packed about them. Poles were put up along the inside toward the top, on which were suspended weapons, moccasins, clothing, skins, ornaments, and dried meats. There, too, in harvest time, the squaws hung the ears of corn to dry. Their way of garnering their corn was to dry the ears by fire, then beat off the grain and put it in sacks of matting, which were iii turn put into large cylinders made of bark and set deep in dry ground, where frequently they would leave it to remain through the winter, for use the next summer, or when their supply of other food should run short. The Indians of this peninsula, before they were crowded away by the white men, understood well the comfort of the regions about Grand and Little Traverse Bays as summer resorts. Those of the big village at Arbor Croche only staid there during the warm season. In the fall they were wont to start for the south, hunting along shore or inland in winter, wherever muskrats, beavers and other favorite game and furs could be found, camping with their little wigwams in the Muskegon, Grand, Kalamazoo and other river valleys, going even as far as Chicago and beyond; in the spring returning to the north, to raise corn and enjoy the lake breezes. At home, and while not at war with other tribes or the encroaching white people, the Indians seem to have enjoyed the felicity of domestic peace. Quarrels, murders, thefts and other crimes were rare among them. Indeed, so far as may be judged from any -r~ic le~rer was proportionately much less of crime and immorality in domes tic life among them than there is in civilized society at the present day. They had their religions, their superstitions, their gods of earth and air and water, and their many and singular, but by no means uniform, beliefs in spirits and faiths in dreams. By nature, in peace, they were neighborly and honorable. The savage would scalp his enemy, but his childlike reliance upon the "Great Spirit" to supply his physical wants left little room in his heart for a propensity to wanton robbery or theft. Probably the integrity and honor of the Indians has been overrated; they were not universally honest, but they were more often persistent beggars than thieves. And among their leaders and chiefs pride in fidelity to their pledges or promises was a marked characteristic. It is related that an Indian who became indebted to a white man desired to give his note. A note was written, to which he affixed his mark, and then he pocketed it, insisting that inasmuch as it was his note he was the rightful holder. He carried it home, but when it became due appeared promptly with the note and the money and paid his debt. The creditor was Peter D. McNaughton, then of Caledonia, Kent county, a pioneer of i838. The Indians who lived here when the white men first entered are represented to have been peacefully and amicably inclined, often aiding and succoring the pioneers in time of need, providing game or fish, and exchanging courtesies with them of various kinds in a neighborly and friendly spirit. If the white man lost his horse, the Indian, keener of search or observation, was generally sure to bring tidings of the missing animal. Deer were plenty, and in most seasons the Indians not only supplied their own families with meat, but often when a deer was slain presented their white neighbors with choice pieces of venison. They also used muskrat and raccoon flesh for food. They gathered wild berries and fruits in -then siasuii, and these, as-well- as game, 44 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. furs, dressed deerskins, and moccasins, they were wont to "swap" for flour, salt, tobacco, ammunition, sugar, blankets, and such other articles as they desired, not forgetting "fire water" if that was obtainable, and seldom was it lacking. The French who came among them easily adopted the use of some kinds of meats for which the Yankee settlers did not so readily acquire a taste, the former being trained adepts in culinary skill. When the pioneer Yankee family came down the river from Ionia, they stopped and took dinner at the mouth of Flat River, with the family of Dan Marsac. For a simple, frugal meal, so deep in the woods, it was bounteous, but several girls of the voyaging party remembered for more than twenty years, with merry jests and hearty laughter whenever the subject was mentioned, their sportive discussion of the principal dishmuskrat soup. The Indians are usually regarded as a vigorous, hardy and athletic race, in those respects surpassing the civilized people who have supplanted them. But it is probably true that the rule of "the survival of the fittest," rather than the universality of natural vigor, has been mainly the foundation for such an opinion; the naturally feeble among them having been cut down early in life by the vicissitudes to which they were exposed, and only the stronger and more powerful left to reach maturity in years. INDIAN AGENTS. The following persons have served as Indian agents in Michigan: I836-43, H. R. Schoolcraft; i843-45, Robert Stuart; I845 -5I, W. A. Richmond; I851, C. P. Babcock; I852-53, William Sprague; i853-58, H. C. Gilbert; i858-62, A. M. Fitch; i862-65, D. C. Leach; I865-69, R. M. Smith; I869-7I, James W. Long; i87I, R. M. Smith; i871-76, George I. Betts; i876-8I, G. W. Lee; I88i-85, E. P. Allen; I885-89, Mark W. Stevens. INDIAN POPULATION. In regard to the present Indian population of Michigan the census* statistics are far from satisfactory. It seems that until the census of i88o, the nearest approaches to numbering them were by loose estimates or guesses. In i870 the statistics give but 4,926; whereas in I88o the Indians were reported as numbering 7,296, and in i884 the number had decreased to 6,900. The diminution occurs probably through their removal to western reservations, rather than from natural causes. CHAPTER III. THE ADVENT OF THE WHITE MAN. MISSIONS, TRADING POSTS AND EARLY VISITORS. The year of the white man's first appearance here is not known. There are vague traditions and legends, coming through Indian sources, that pale-faced explorers or adventurers visited these Rapids nearly a century and a half ago. But if they did they left no footprints. Captain Jasper Parish, for some time engaged in vessel building here and in navigation of the river, in i847 had a conversation with an aged Indian at Grand Haven, from whom he gathered a tradition to this effect: In August, I748, there came to the Rapids of Grand River one William Fitzgerald, and, standing on Prospect Hill, he prophesied to the red men who gathered around him that before a century should elapse the white men would occupy this place, with their homes and all the arts and appliances of civilization. Captain Parish did not attempt to rehearse the story in full, much of which he did not quite understand; but this was its purport, and the Indian added that Fitzgerald died and was buried near White Lake; also that a son of one of his attendants was then living, which would indicate that there were others with that supposed early explorer of these regions. Doubtless this story may be taken with considerable allowance; inasmuch as no corroborative evidence has appeared. It is undoubtedly true that white men visited this Grand River Valley before Indian trading posts were established in 1821; and probably there were visitors to those posts and to the mission stations before I833; but they were few and far between, and very few of their names are preserved. Even of those directly connected with the posts and the missions the number was not large; scarcely more than a score of persons in all. Two or three instances of early exploration are well authenticated. Chief Noonday once told Richard Godfroy that as early as i8o6 a white man, a French trader, erected a cabin at Grand Rapids, but the name he did not know. In 1827 one Samuel Holloway, a boy of seventeen years, came to Grand Rapids with a party to distribute supplies to the Indians, and assisted Louis Campau in building his log house, the first habitation for white men here. Holloway went away about 1832, just before the Yankee settlers began to come in, and when there were but nine log cabins and shops and no frame buildings here. He never visited this place again till i872, though at this latter date he had for three years been living within twelve miles of the city. The nine log huts referred to were doubtless three at the trading post, three at the Baptist Mission Station, and three down by the Indian village. In May, i819, Gurdon S. Hubbard, of Chicago, visited the mouth of Grand River with a friend, and witnessed an Indian "feast for the dead." But he did not stop there long; he was then on a trip along shore from Chicago to Mackinac, and in an account of it said that he saw no white man, except a trader near the mouth of the St. Joseph River. Francis Bailey, a half-white, came here 4G HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. about i828, from Eastern Canada. He had an Indian wife and settled at the Indian village opposite the foot of the Rapids. He was a "medicine man" among them, and built a small house in which he resided till after the treaty of i835. He then sought to get, as an Indian, the forty-acre piece of land on which he lived, to separate from the tribe and make it his permanent home. His application was rejected, he said, because he "was not full-blood Indian." He next sought to retain his home by entry under the preemption law, but was again repulsed, on the ground that he "was not a white man." He said to the writer of this: "'I found it bad to be not white man nor Indian, and I did not know what I was. A white man got my place and my house, and so I went with the Indians. It will make no difference when I die." Mr. Bailey died at or near Pentwater in I887, aged eighty years. In I830, when Caleb Eldred came into Michigan, he was for some time prostrated with fever at Jackson. He sent out as a "land looker" one Ruell Starr, who explored this valley, and also that of the Kalamazoo River-went back and reported most glowingly in favor of the latter, which -was selected as the place of their future operations. In 1854, Noah Humphrey Osborne, of Cortland county, N. Y., informed a friend that in i829 he was at the Rapids of Grand River, and for some days was sick at the wigwam of Chief Noonday, who cared for him as tenderly as if he were his own child. From a letter written by Mr. Osborne to the editor of this book, dated McGrawville, N. Y., January io, I888, the following is extracted: When Michigan was a Territory, several young men were contemplating the formation of a colony to remove west. I was selected to explore, and decide and report a suitable place for the settlement. I came to Detroit, purchased an outfit, with a good horse, and took the territorial road about as far as the present city of Jackson; thence followed the gen eral course of the river three or four days on Indian trails, not seeing a white settlement and but few white hunters. Saw many Indians. Lost my compass in a dark day, and lost my trail, and when night came on I was lost. I tied my h6rse to a tree, took saddle for a pillow, wrapped my blanket around me, laid down, hungry, sick, lost and discouraged; tried to sleep, but the unmusical voices of wolves kept me wakeful. While thinking I had made a fool of myself in leaving old Connecticut for this useless tramp through the wilds of Michigan, I was startled by the sound of a footstep, and a minute later an Indian was at my side. I arose and followed him to a cluster of wigwams, or camp. He conducted me to the chief. I cannot recall the name of the chief or the tribe —it may have been Noonday. I was kindly received, given something to eat, and furnished a bed of skins, with my feet to the fire, where I slept. I was given a. decoction of herbs which relieved me from my sickness. The camp or town was near the river where there were falls or rapids. After remaining two or three days and recovering from my fatigue and sickness, having seen none but Indians, I was furnished by the chief with a young Indian for a guide, who with his pony conducted me to a white settlement, having gone in a southerly direction for several hours, and which I have believed was that of the present Kalamazoo. Returning to my New England home I made my report, which was that there was as fine land as the sun ever shone upon; that there were more Indians than white men, and more fever and ague than Indians and whites put together. The colony failed to organize, deeming my report unfavorable. Six or eight years later, or thereabout, I was again in Michigan, and found everything changed vastly fck the better. * * And now at eighty-six years of age I am trying to recall facts occuring more than sixty years ago from a treacherous memory. [Mr. Osborne explained that his diary, notes and papers were burned many years ago]. The late W. L. Coffinberry used to narrate the story of an early transaction in the whisky traffic, as given him upward of forty years ago by one McBride, of Ohio, who stated that he visited Louis Campau's trading post at the Rapids about i828. It was to the effect that McBride and partners in business shipped a cargo of whisky to Detroit, and, not there finding a market for half of it, proceeded to Mackinaw, from there to Milwaukee, and thence to Chicago, supplying the trade at each place, and MISSIONS, TRADING POSTS AND EARLY VISITORS. 47 having ten barrels left, which they brought over to Grand Haven, and up to the Rapids in a scow or pole boat. Here he said he sold the last of his cargo, to Campau, and proceeded to relate a ludicrous story of how quickly the Indians scented or heard of the supply, and came to purchase of the fur trader; also of the laughable conduct of the Indians under the effect of their potations, as they carried the liquor away in their canoes. It is but fair to add that Mr. Campau declared that he had no remembrance of any such transaction, nor of purchasing any such quantity of spirits at his station. The late Richard Godfroy once said that in 1834 he was informed by the older Indian chiefs here that a Frenchman named Laframboise established a trading post by their village at these Rapids, and built a cabin there, on the west side of the river, as early as about i8o6. The chiefs described the hut as built of logs and bark, chinked with clay, and about thirty feet in length, and said they assisted him in making it. In I876, under Mr. Godfroy's instructions, a fac si/ile' of that cabin was made and exhibited at the Public Square on the Fourth of inac, where was recorded, July I I, 1804, the marriage of Joseph Laframboise and Magdelaine Marcot. One Joseph Laframboise, by the provisions of the Chicago treaty of i821, was given a section of land on the St. Joseph River. If this trader at Lowell be the same lady named in the marriage record, she died at or near Mackinac in April, I846, at the age of sixty-six years. Some part of the foundation of her house or hut in Lowell is still preserved, its owner being Thomas WV. Porter, of this city. In the first decade of this century a French trader had a post where now is the City of Muskegon, and a son was born to him there in i81o. The latter-Etienne Lamarandier-is now living, hale and well preserved, near the village of Newaygo. It has been related by W\. M. Ferry that as early as 181o Pierre Constant, an agent of the American Fur Company, established a trading post on Grand River a little distance from its mouth. Not many years later than that a French trader named Rudell was in or near the Indian village on the west side of the river near these Rapids. He died there, leaving a family in which were two or three daughters. A resident of the Muskegon Valley then and since-Lamarandier-remembers them, but nothing concerning their subsequent history. Rix Robinson was the successor of Madame Laframboise. He came to the mouth of the Thornapple River in I82J, as the agent of the same comnpany, purchased her stock and outfit, and besides the post at Ada had several other trading stations, at Grand Haven and down the lake shore northward. Robinson married an Indian girl who was his companion through life. He died in 1875, aged eighty-five years. He was an educated man, the first permanent white settler in Kent county, and after abandoning the fur trade, which he did and turned his attention to farming and domestic matters, he served honorably in several FIRST TRADER'S CABIN. July. Probably the exact date of the coming of that trader is beyond verification; but it appears certain that Madame Laframboise soon after had a trading hut on the north side of Grand River, some two miles below the mouth of Flat River. The post was stocked by the American Fur Company. She doubtless came in from Michilimack HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. public positions. He was a man of commanding presence; tall, dignified and independent in bearing, and it was said of him that no white man in Michigan had more positive influence with the native Indians; that they not only loved and respected but stood in awe of him. He left a memory to be cherished and venerated by both races. Doubtless his trading boats, between I82I and I833, passed every year up and down this river. A monument to his memory was erected at Ada in June, I887. Louis Campau came to Grand Rapids in I826, and engaged in the Indian trade, under a government license. He was born in Detroit in 1791, and was one of the soldiers surrendered by Gen. Hull to the British in I812. After that he was engaged with Detroit merchants in selling goods to the Indians at Saginaw. Following are the original instructions given him with his license from the Superintendent of Indian Affairs, as a trader, a license upon the acceptance of which it was necessary to give bonds, and which was liable to be revoked on well-grounded complaint: Instructions to Louis Campau, this day licensed to trade with the Indian nation ati. Your trade will be confined to the place to which you are licensed. 2. Your transactions with the Indians will be confined to fair and friendly trade. 3. You will attend no Councils held by the Indians, nor send them any talk or speech, accompanied by wampum. 4. You are forbidden to take any spirituous liquors of any kind into the Indian country; or to give, sell or dispose of any to the Indians. 5. Should any person attempt to. trade in the Indian county without a license; or should any licensed traders carry any spirituous liquors into the Indian country; or give, sell or dispose of any to the Indians, the Indians are authorized to seize and take to their own use the goods of such traders: and the owner shall have no claim on the Indians or the United States for the same. 6. Should you learn that there is any person in the Indian country, trading without a license, you will immediately report the name of such person, and the place where he is trading, to some Indian agent. 7. The substance of the 5th regulation you will communicate to the Indians. 8. You will take all proper occasions to inculcate upon the Indians the necessity of peace; and to state to them that it is the wish of their Great Father, the President, to live in harmony with them; and that they must shut their ears to any wild stories there may be in circulation. Given under my hand, at the city of Detroit, this i5th day of November, 1822. \VILLIAM XVOODBRIDGCE, Secretary, and at present vested with the powers of Superintendent of Indian Affairs therein. For such trade Louis Campau came to this valley, arriving in November, 1826, being engaged also by Mr. Brewster, of New York, to buy furs. WVith two assistants, he spent his first winter here at the Indian village. In the following year he built two log cabins, one for a dwelling andt the other for trading uses, also a small shop, for blacksmithing and other mechanical work. These were of partially hewn timbers, and of the kind in those days denominated block houses. They were by the river bank at or near what is now Huron street, at the foot of the east side canal, and were the first buildings erected here on that side of the river, and the only ones on the left bank until six years later. Subsequently Mr. Campau made this place his permanent home, and became prominent among its pioneers. Always on friendly terms with the red men, he enjoyed with them a profitable trade, not only here but throughout the northern half of this peninsula of Michigan. His brother, Toussaint, came here in the latter part of i827, and a few years later two other brothers, Antoine and George. These Campau families were all prominent in the early growth and development of Grand Rapids. Louis Campau was twice married. Hiis first wife died at Saginaw. His second wife died here in i869, aged sixty-two. He died in I871 at nearly eighty years of age. Toussaint died in I872. Antoine (lied in I874, aged seventy-seven. George died in 1879, MISSIONS, TRADING POSTS AND EARLY VISITORS. 49 aged seventy-seven. Daniel Marsac came here in 1828; afterward went to Lowell, and in i83i established a trading post there, opposite the mouth of Flat River. The French and afterward the English missionaries and traders along these upper lakes, with headquarters mainly at Michilimackinac, for nearly two hundred years before the settlement of this valley, undoubtedly had stations at Grand River, as they did at other points between the Straits and Chicago, and probably their couriers passed up and down the stream nearly every year, and also traversed the wilderness between it and Saginaw Bay. But there is very little of authentic history which gives names and dates on that subject; therefore it rests in comparative obscurity. In documents on file in Canadian archives there are mentions of "Indian licenses" granted at Quebec for Michilimackinac and places beyond, in 1778; also of canoes put in general store at Michilimackinac, with names and residences of the traders. In these appears the name of Louis Chabollier, licensed for Grand River, with two canoes, carrying fuzees "20;" gunpowder, "6o," and shot and ball, "1,200." Whether kegs or pounds of powder and ammunition are meant by the figures used is not stated. Also in 1780 Pierre Chabolierre was licensed for Grand River, with one canoe. THlE MISSIONARIES. French Jesuit missionaries established headquarters at Mackinaw (Michilimackinac) at a very early date; the exact time is in doubt, but it appears by their church records kept at that place that the rite of baptism was there administered by them in i6i6. Books used by them contained earlier dates. From time to time, as their number was increased by arrivals from Canada, missionaries were sent from Mackinaw to all the Indian villages, who generally succeeded in gaining the esteem and confidence of the natives. Every missionary on his 4 return made report of his doings, which, in brief form, was placed upon the record. It is supposed that by this plan of missionary operation all the Indian tribes and communities, including the villages at Grand Rapids, were visited, several times, more than two centuries ago. But nothingverydefinite has been learned from those early Mackinaw records as to any particular locality; and the mission history here at the Rapids, as late as I812, is about as obscure and uncertain as that of two hundred years earlier. By the Chicago treaty of 1821 the United States Government engaged to expend $i,ooo annually for fifteen years in support of a teacher and blacksmith among the Potawatomie Indians; also to furnish the Ottawas with a teacher, blacksmith, some cattle and farming utensils, to be located upon a square mile of land for mission purposes, the land to be held as Government property, and to expend for these latter $1,500 annually for ten years. These two tribes claimed brotherhood and lived in harmony with each other. Isaac McCoy, who had been designated by the Board of Managers of the Baptist Missionary Convention of the United States to labor as a missionary, was appointed superintendent of the persons employed to carry into effect these provisions of the treaty. Upon the representation of McCoy the Potawatomie mission was located on the St. Joseph River, where Niles now stands, and that for the Ottawas on the north side of Grand River, opposite the foot of the Rapids, where was an Indian village of some threescore huts, of which Kew-kish-kum was the head chief. Noonday, well known by some whites who are yet living, was then the chief of the Ottawa tribe. Only well-worn trails led to this aboriginal center —that was before the days of improved roads. The territory of the Ottawas extended southward to the Kalamazoo River. The station at St. Joseph River was named HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Carey; that at the Rapids was called Thomas. Previours to the selection of these sites, elaborate instructions had been given McCoy by Gen. Lewis Cass, then the Territorial Governor, the purport of them briefly stated, being: i. Give the Indians, young and old, such instructions as are deemed best suited to their habits and condition; exercising discretion as to the proportion of moral and religious instructions. 2. Inculcate proper sentiments toward the Government and citizens of the United States, and strive to wean the Indians of their affections toward any foreign power. 3. Labor assiduously against the use of ardent spirits, and to prevent the free introduction of whisky among the natives. 4. \Vatch the conduct of the traders, and report infractions of the laws to the nearest agent. 5. Strive to induce the Indians to engage in agriculture and the rearing of domestic animals. 6. Instruct them as to the best mode of expending their annuities, and against unlawful traffic. 7. Seek to promote the general good of the Indians, and to persuade them to stay at home. Gen. Cass also advised the employment, if practicable, of young natives as laborers. McCoy, with his family, pupils and assistants, reached Carey Station December i8, 1822. The company numbered thirtytwo persons. They staid there through the winter, which was one of intense cold, subjecting them to much suffering. May 26, i823, McCoy started for Thomas Station on Grand River, to begin operations among the Ottawas, taking with him a Frenchman named Paget, for a pilot, one of his Indian pupils, and a laborer employed by the Government. They came by a route which had never before been travrsed by white men. In one respect it was like going through an immense park, for on most of the way the trees were not thick, and there was very little underbrush, that being kept down by the fires annually kindled by the savages to burn out the dead grass. At an Indian camp by Kalamazoo river they obtained venison. They forded or swam that river. They were four days on the journey, and crossed Grand River on the 3oth of May. On his arrival, McCoy was unable to identify the site which had been selected by the Government Commissioners for the Ottawa station. It had been so minutely described to him that he thought he should recognize it at sight, but he could find no place answering to the description given him. He also found it difficult to obtain audience with the chiefs. Some of the Indians thought him a medicine man with a marvelous gift of healing, and an old squaNw brought him her son to be cured of fits. At the village they had in some way procured whisky, and were carousing and turbulent. It seems that the Ottawas distrusted the missionary, and were dissatisfied with the disposal of their lands by the Chicago treaty. They thought it illegal. Stopping only three days, the party, much discouraged, went back to the Carey Mission, and did not return here till late in the fall. A teacher named Polke was sent here that year, with a blacksmith and an apprentice and two or three laborers. In November, I824, Mr. McCoy again came up, accompanied by Mr. Sawyer (blacksmith), Mettiz (laborer), and Gosa, an Indian. They reached here the first day of December, and selected the site where afterward were placed the Baptist Mission buildings, when McCoy immediately returned to Carey. At this visit Noonday showed him a salt spring and some gypsum rock, probably that at Plaster Creek. The guide said it was supposed that "the spirits fed there." In the spring of 1825 another expedition was started for Thomas, and the Indians at the mission were found friendly. Improvements, in cheap dwellings, fences, and cultivation, were noticeable. In September of that year a boat laden with iron, steel, plows, yokes, chains, and other articles needed, IMISSI()NS, TADIN' P()OSTS AND EARLY VISITORS. ) I came by way of the lake and Grand River from St. Joseph to the Thomas Mission, and several cattle were driven here. Hands were then set at work to erect permaneint log buildings. These were built a little south of where now is W\est Bridge street, and just west of the location of Front street. Says McCoy in his journal: The place we had selected for the establishment of the mission we could easily perceive would one dav become a place of great importance-much more so than that which had originally been selected for it by the I nited States Commissioner. Hie supposed the original selection to have been some distance tip the river-perlaps at the mouth of the Thornapple. The w-ork at Thomas Station went forward, more cattle were sent in, journeys forth and back from Carey Station (Niles) were made, and progress kept pace with the effort. After McCoy, or perhaps under his superintendence, came the Rev. Leonard Slater. Mr. Slater was born at Worcester, Mass., November 16, 1802. He was appointed missionary to western Indians at the Baptist Triennial Convention of 1826, and in May of that year married Mary F. Ide, of Vermont. Together the young couple came to the Carey Mission near Niles in the succeeding fall, having traveled through the woods from Detroit on horseback. In the spring of 1827 Slater was placed in charge of the Thomas Mission at this place. He remained here until 1836, preaching and teaching an Indian school, during whllich time lie so fully mastered the Ottawa langiuage as to use it nearly as readily as tlle English. Governor Cass visited l)otll tlie Niles and G(rand Rapids missions, and expressed his pleasure at their work, especially commending tlle zeal and faithfulness of tlie missionaries in charge. Among Mr. Slater's first converts here was Chief Noonday. In its best estate about I50 families of Indians were attached to tllis mission. thougll tlere were probably two or three times as many whose homes, such as they had, were not far away. There were at the mission with Mr. Slater the blacksmith, H. Rush, and his wife and child. Two other blacksmiths-Secord and P. F. Chuhbb-are mentioned. Agent R. 1). Potts and wife were teachers at the school, and several other men were employed in various ways about the grounds or in direct connection with the work. There came also a Mr. Meeker' and wife, and a Miss Thompson, ana later Miss Day and Miss Bond. Subsequently the latter married Francis Prescott, afterward a Baptist preacher. To Mr. Slater and wife, while at this station, were born four children: Sarah Emily (Mrs. St. John, of Kalanmazoo), August 12, I827; George L., February 9, 1829; Francis I., December 29, I832, and 1-rainard, September 21, i835. In December, i832, Slater was appointed postmaster and held that office till September i, I836. The ground occupied by these Indian missions, or what was called the "mission reserve," afterward sold for their benefit, comprised about i6o acres on the left bank of the river, extending from \Vest Bridge street down to eighty rods south of West Fulton street-lots Nos. I, 2 and 3, as marked on the U. S. survey charts or tract books. Missionary Isaac McCoy, in February, 1845, testified under oath that about fifteen acres of the ground were fenced under his direction, and half an acre plowed and planted. Also that the "hewed log buildings " were: "A dwelling about eighteen or twenty feet wide and twenty-four feet long; school house about the same; a kitchen less; another dwelling of hewed logs was begun which was afterward made a two-story building with a stone chimney, and a small stable." McCoy was last there in i829, when "probably the nearest settlements were at Pontiac and Ann Arbor." The mill erected by government aid for this mission was about one and a quarter miles due north from this land or Bridge street, on the small creek near where now is the 52 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. track of the Detroit, Grand Haven Milwaukee Railway. The rapid influx of white settlers wl began in the spring of I833, with the ( taminating and demoralizing influeI thereto pertaining, soon indicated to authorities the advisability if not abso necessity of a removal of this miss There had been lack of harmony betw McCoy and Slater, and after the for retired the latter had whisky and adv, plottings of various sorts to contend w In i836 land was purchased at Prairiev Barry county, to which locality the F Slater removed, with his band. About fifty families of Indians Eremoved. These included the 1 brave, noble and dignified Chief - Noonday. Slater continued his work there till 1852, when he removed to Kalamazoo; though for several years thereafter he preached at the station, riding thirteen miles therefor. He died i at Kalamazoo, April 27, I866. His first wife, who shared his work here, died in I850. The Ottawa chief Noonday lived to be more than Ioo years old. He died and was buried at the Slater (Prairieville) Station. No stone or other device marks his resting place, while the plow of the Aruthless white man from year to year turns the fallow earth, or the si ing winds sing his sad requiem through rustling leaves of the me-daw-rmin (corn) t grows luxuriant over his remains. About the time of the beginning of p manent white occupation at Grand Rapi Vicar-General Frederic Baraga locatec Roman Catholic Mission here, at the lo, Indian village. He erected there the fra of a building for a church. This structu at the solicitation of Louis Campau, X moved across the river early in the spr of I834, on the ice, by Barney Burton, c was afterward used for other purposes. The Baraga Mission service was short, only lasting about two years; though the Rev. Andreas Viszoczky continued to look after the Catholic Indiains there as a part of his pastoral charge as long as any remained. Father Baraga was consecrated Vicar Apostolic of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in I853, and died January 19, i868, at Marquette. These missions, Baptist and Catholic, ended their work here, practically, shortly after the cession of the lands north of Grand River to the Government. The assignment VIEW FROM MONROE STREET TRAIL IN 1832. -Island No. 1. B-Noonday's House. C-Mission. DI-Indian Wigwams. E-Trading Post. gh- of the Indians to reservations in other parts the of the country soon followed, and subsehat quently their general removal. The mission lands here were sold, and the proceeds )er- divided between the two missions, by amiids, cable agreement, the Baptists receiving I a $I2,000 and the Catholics $8,ooo. The wer final settlement of the title to those lands Lme was a somewhat troublesome matter, on ire, account of conflicting claims, and with vas that ended what may be termed the ing mission period, under Government suand pervision, of the history of this now MISSIONS, TRADING POSTS AND EARLY VISITORS 53 most prominent city but one in Michigan. As late as i847 Mary L. Kingsbury, and after her Charles Ellet, raised corn and garden vegetables on the Baptist mission-house grounds. century. There is very little of authentic record concerning his mission; but enough to give probability to the story. He shortly afterward became known for his travels in the earlier settled portions of the territory, from Detroit to Michilimackinac, and as connected with a newspaper printed at Detroit in i809. Richard was sent to Congress as a delegate in i823. He died in i832. About the year 1799 Father Richard was at Mackinaw, and visited the Ottawas at Little Traverse Bay, and in 182I he again visited that region, and thence by boat passed along the shore of Lake Michigan to St. Joseph and Chicago. But no mention of Grand River appears in the account of these journeys. An Ottawa county chronicler speaks of Father Richard as arriving in 1799, "as a priest to the Grand River Indians," which is probably a mistake, as he was then a priest in St. Anne's Church, Detroit. He is said to have been finely educated, eloquent, and earnest in his profession. While in Congress he succeeded in securing appropriations for the Grand River and Pontiac territorial roads leading from Detroit. MISSION RIKSEI R — IROM SU'RVEY IN 1838. Tradition has it that the Rev. Gabriel Richard, a French Catholic priest and missionary, came among the Indians on this river about the beginning of the present CHAPTER IV. THE SETTLEMENT-THE PIONEER COLONY. AFTER the surveys of public lands had been extended as far north as Grand River, reports of an enticing nature as to the inducements for settlement in this region began to reach the eastern people, probably from some of the surveyors and their assistants, and from now and then an explorer who ventured into the wilderness; though of the latter there is very little record. Then followed the land-lookers who had already traversed the more southerly portions of the Territory, where many settlements were established between the years i828 and i832. And speculators as well as pioneer settlers were searching further north for "fresher fields and pastures new." In the fall of I832 Samuel Dexter, of Herkimer county, N. Y., came to Grand River and selected the spot where now is Ionia, and entered there a quarter section of land. He also entered four eighties-a tract two miles long and eighty rods wide-close by where now is the very heart of this city of Grand Rapids, along the east side of the Division street line, from Wealthy avenue to Leonard street. He then went back to Herkimer county and set about organizing a colony of emigrants. In the spring of I833 they started. The company numbered sixty-three pqrsons. They were: Samuel Dexter, Erastus Yeomans, Oliver Arnold, Joel Guild, Edward Guild and Darius Winsor, with their wives and children; and Dr. William B. Lincoln, Patrick M. Fox, Winsor Dexter, \Varner Dexter and Abram Decker, single men. Among the papers of Mr. Yeomans, after his death, was found, written with ink and very much faded, the following: Memorandum of Journey to Michigan. --- Left German Flats April 25, 1833. Buffalo, May 7 Landed at Detroit May lo. Left Detroit May i2; Pontiac, I4th; Fuller's, in Oakland county, i5th; Gage's, i6th; in the woods, I7th; at Saline, i8th and i9th; camped out from 20th to 28th. It was written on a leaf of a small account book, and with it a short hymn of "I Gratitude to God on arriving at Ionia," the first stanza reading: \Ve'll praise Thy name, 0, God of Grace, For all Thy mercies shown; We've been preserved to reach this place, And find a pleasant home That was a long and tedious expedition; but those who were of it soon forgot its few hardships and through life remembered and loved to recount its many exciting incidents and pleasures. Cutting their way through the previously untrodden wilderness, and camping at night in the woods, wherever darkness stopped them, was no frolic in the ordinary sense; but they were vigorous and healthy and companionable, and the adventure was novel and exhilarating. There were brush to be cut through, swamps and jungles to pass around, streams to be crossed, and many a hard lift for the men of the party; while the women aided with as much good will in preparing their frugal lunches and their resting places, and the children were in the very spirit of play. Only one seriously sad incident occurredthe death of a child of Mr. Dexter, by scarlet fever. But the entire narrative may perhaps best be told by one of the pioneer party. Mrs. Harriet Burton, a daughter of Joel Guild, who was one of that colony and is yet alive (July, I889), at the age of 76 years, familiarly called "Aunt Hattie," relates the following story of that journey and its incidents: AUNT HATTIE.S STORY. We (Joel and Edward Guild, and their families), started from Paris, Oneida c(ounty, N. Y., taking goods and teams. At the Erie Canal we went aboard aI bolt purchased by Samuel Dexter for the party. In all there were sixty-three of the company. We had our horses to draw the boat, and the boys to drive. At Buffalo the boat was sold, and we shipped our goods and took passage on the steamer Superior THE PIONEER DWELLING HOUSE. of. for Detroit, where we selected only such goods as we could carry overland, and left the rest to be sent around to the mouth of Grand River. We stopped in Detroit two or three days, buying oxen and cows, and laying in supplies. Every family had a wagon. From there we went to Pontiac, where we staid two nights in a tavern. The third day we went about ten miles and camped near a tavern, where the women and children found shelter, and the rest slept in tents. The next day we left the roads and went into the wilderness, with no guide except a compass and a knowledge of the general direction to be taken. That night, I think, we reached the cabin of a Mr. Gage, twenty miles from any other white man's habitation. As many as the small house would accommodate slept in it; the others camped. All were quite weary. Mr. \Winsor, who was lame, Mrs. Winsor, with her sick girl, Rosalind, and the small children, rode. The rest of us walked, and it was hard walking. After leaving there, all had to camp out. Each family had a tent; the six tents were pitched together as one long tent, and every night twenty-three beds were made upon the ground. At Pontiac Mrs. Dexter's youngest child, a boy, became sick with scarlet fever, and seemed to grow worse every day. But we could not stop, for our progress was slow and our supplies running short, so we traveled on to the Shiawassee, where we procured a guide. It was raining when we reached the Lookingglass River, and that night the little boy was so sick that his mother and Mrs. Yeomans, whose babe was but four weeks old when we started, and myself, sat up all night, holding umbrellas over the two little ones, and nursing them. It was late when we started the next day, and we went only about four miles before reaching heavy timbered land. Thus far we had been traveling through burr oak openings. That night the boy grew worse, and his mother and I sat up nearly all night with him. DEATH IN THE WOODS. Our provisions were nearly gone, and we could not stop, but about noon Mrs. Dexter called a halt, noticing a change in the boy. Dr. Lincoln gave him some medicine, but in a few minutes the little sufferer was dead. We could not tarry, but went sadly on carrying his body, and camped early; when my mother furnished a small trunk that had been used for carrying food and dishes, which served for a coffin, and by Muskrat Creek, as the sun was going down, the little one was buried. A large elm by the grave was marked, and logs were put over the mound and fastened there, to protect it from wolves that were then plenty in that vicinity. The only service over the little grave was a prayer by Mr. Dexter. The mother seemed broken-hearted, and we all were grieved, but could not tarry there. AT GRAND RIVER. We had reached the point where we had to use meal that father bought at Pontiac for the horses, letting the latter pick their living as best they could from grass and twigs by the way. Each family had cows-in all fifteen or twenty. We made log-heap fires, filled a large brass kettle with water, placed it over the fire, stirred in meal and made hasty-pudding, which, with milk from the cows, was our only food. After reaching the timber land, we girls had to rise very early and get breakfast for the young men, who would then start ahead to cut out the road, and only came in when it was time to camp at night. At the end of sixteen days we reached Grand River at Lyons, where father and his family made a brief stop, while the rest proceeded at once to Ionia. ON TO THE RAPIDS. In a few days father and Mr. Dexter started from Ionia, on horseback, by way of the Rapids of Grand River, for the land office at White Pigeon. On reaching the Rapids they met Uncle Louis Campau, who wanted them to settle here, the lands having come into market the year before. He had taken some land, and was platting it into lots; he did not "talk Yankee" very well, he said, and he wanted a settlement of Yankees here. So father went and took up the forty that is now the "Kendall addition," and also took up some pine land a little southeast of here. When he came back from the land office, he bought, for $25, a village lot of Mr. Campau. Uncle Louis, and some of his French help, went to Ionia for us with bateaux. All of our family came down. At the mouth of Flat 'River we went ashore. Dan Marsac was there, in a log shanty. There was no clearing. Many Indians were about. We next landed at Rix Robinson's. Found Indians there also. Soon after, some Indians met us, and Uncle Louis talked with them in their own language. He said they informed him that a Catholic Priest, Mr. Baraga, had just arrived. We reached the Rapids and landed that evening on the east side by the foot of Huron street, near where the Butterworth & Lowe iron works are. Two log houses and a shop were there. All about were woods, mostly. We were received with a warm welcome by that good woman, Mrs. Louis Campau, who did her utmost to make us comfortable. This was Sunday, June 23, 1833-the day that I was twenty years old. We staid there a few days; then removed to Mr. Campau's fur-packing house and store, where we lived till about the first of September, when we removed into the new house that my fathei built. THE PIONEER I)WELLING HOUSE. The family of Joel Guild then consisted of himself and his wife, six daughters (the eldest 20 and the youngest three years of age) and a son (Consider Guild, then I8 years old). Harriet was the eldest daughter. They came from 'West Winfield, Herkimer county, N. Y., to Paris, Oneida county, and then here. The lot which Mr. Guild purchased was on the east side of Monroe at its junction with Pearl street, and at the base of "Prospect Hill." There he immediately set about building a house, which he so far completed as to be able to move into it in ten weeks. It was the first frame-house built at Grand Rapids, and the lumber for it was procured at the Indian saw mill which had been built for the Slater mission. That pioneer dwelling was an unpretentious "story-and-a-half" structure, about i6 by 26 feet on the ground; had 56 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. two windows in the lower and one in the upper (or gable) west front, and two windows, with a door between, in each side, north and south. The east end was close in by the hill. The site is now occupied by the National City Bank. At the river's edge, about I50 feet directly west of it, was a fine spring, over which Mr. Campau had a "milk-house;" and further south, about half way to where now is the Eagle Hotel, was the storehouse for furs and Indian goods belonging to his trading station, of which Mrs. Burton speaks, in which the Meantime there were numerous comers and goers, for the fame of Grand Rapids and this valley was beginning to be noised abroad, bringing hither not a few land seekers and explorers. And thus it happened that very quickly, notwithstanding the meager accommodations, the Guild premises became a sort of boarding house or tavern, even before the new structure was covered. THE HIILL THAT IS GONE. Prospect Hill-perhaps it should be noted here-was a prominent and strik PROSPECT HILL AND THE PIONEER HOUSE-SEPTEMBER, 1833. family lived while building their new dwelling. Midway between their lodging house and the spring just mentioned was done the cooking and other domestic work, by an outdoor fire; an oak log being used for a backing to this primitive, wide-open and roomy fireplace, with its wooden crane and pothooks and hangers, and a large tin baker in the foreground. Many barrels of flour, with meats and other accompaniments in proportion, were there prepared for the table. A few loose boards and some green boughs constituted the roof of this temporary kitchen. ing figure where now is the very center of our proud and ambitious city. Its southern or southwestern extremity was a bold bluff rising from where Monroe street, below Ottawa, now is, its summit being some sixty feet above the river level. The west side of this hill was also a steep declivity, reaching from Monroe street northward to some distance beyond Lyon street, the turn or angle at Monroe street being abrupt; and the western base, from the rear of the Guild house before described, ran across the ground where Powers' Opera House stands, thence to the Kent street corner and beyond. THE FIRST HALF YEAR. 57 It was a hill of compact gravel and clay, the clay preponderating, tough and nearly as hard as rock. From the country southeast came in the main Indian trail to the end of that hill and down by its southerly base, winding close under it at the southwestern point of the bluff, and thence passing to the log trading houses. Mr. Campau, in his first platting for the future city, insisted upon laying the main street on that trail; which thus became Monroe street. Prospect Hill is gone. Except a section of its slope east of Ottawa and south of Pearl street, Daniel H. Waters is removing the last of it, a portion of the higher and heavier part, west of Ottawa, between Lyon and Pearl, while this history writing is in progress. In the village days, and even for some years after the donning of city habiliments, the Lyon and Pearl street precipices facing the river were favorite coasting places in the winter season for the boys with their little sleds. THE FIRST HALF' YEAR. In a letter written just six months after the day of the arrival of their family, Joel Guild and wife described to her brother, Jesse Vaughan, and wife, living in New York State, the experiences of their first half-year in Grand Rapids. The letter is still in existence, a large sheet of foolscap written full, yellow with age, without envelope, and bearing the 25 cent postmark of those days. It reads as follows: JOEL GUILD'S LETTER. GRAND RAPIDS, December the 23d, 1833. Most Respected Brother and Sister: We embrace this opportunity to indite a few lines for your perusal, hoping these few lines may find you and yours enjoying the blessings of health, peace and prosperity. After saying to you that we have no reasonable excuse for not writing before now, and promising to do better for the future, we shall commence by giving you a short account of our journey to this place. After we lett Buffalo we had a comfortable passage to Detroit, at which place we landed in safety in three days. WVe staid at Detroit two days to refresh ourselves, also to purchase teams and wagons and cows. After we had supplied ourselves with such necessaries as we thought proper, we started for Grand River, a distance of i8o miles -sixty-three in number, men women and childrenall in good health and in good spirits. We had a good road thirty-five miles. We then left the road, hired a pilot, and proceeded on an Indian trail; winding our way through a wilderness of about 150 miles inhabited only by wild beasts and Indians. Our progress was slow, as we passed through many forests of heavy timbered land as I ever saw. Our women and children underwent considerable fatigue, as they traveled most part of the way on foot, and sleeping on the ground at night, and almost suffering in some instances for water, as it was very scarce some part of the way, But we all enjoyed good health, and kept up good spirits. I heard no one of the number complain of being homesick. We had the misfortune to have the canker rash amongst the children when we were in the wilderness, and to add to our sorrow we buried one of a Mr. Dexter's little ones, about two years old, in the wilderness about forty miles from inhabitants. By the help of a skillful physician that was with us, the rest of our children were soon restored to health. We had provisions a plenty, and a good pilot, and in sixteen days from Detroit we landed on Grand River. The land here in this country generally appears to be of the first quality. Our water is good as I ever saw in any country, and a plenty of it. People are flocking in from all parts. The country is settling very fast with respectable inhabitants. You will naturally expect me to say something of the situation of myself and family; therefore I shall commence by saying that myself and family are all enjoying good health, and have enjoyed as good health since I saw you as we ever did for the same length of time. As it respects my situation, I am alone as it respects the inhabitants who came to this country with me-we are separated. They all settled in one neighborhood, near the junction of the Maple River with the Grand River. We stopped there about two weeks, and we all lived in Indian wigwams. After looking about for a home, I thought best to move about fifty miles down Grand River to a place called Grand River Falls. I landed here on the thirteenth day of June-no one here then that could speak English excepting a French trader by the name of Campau. I bought I20 acres of first rate land near this place, and since I bought I have had the satisfaction of going with the Commissioners and sticking the stake for the Court House in our county within twenty-five rods of my land. There is now a village laid out here and recorded, and the lots are selling fast, from twenty-five to two hundred dollars each. I own two village lots. I bought the first lots that were sold, and have built a framed house, the first that was ever built within one hundred miles of this place, and I am under the necessity of keeping tavern, as my house was built first. I moved into it the last day of August, and from that time to this my house has been full by day and by night. Some of the time we have had twenty in the family. Our women have a plenty to do, are able and willing to work. Abby says must write to you that she baked nine barrels of flour by the side of a white oak log after we came here before we moved into our house. Our girls have as much sewing as they can do. We are all perfectly contented, and I think we are doing tolerably well. Our river is eighty-five rods wide at this place, and the greatest water privilege there is in the Territory; here is twenty-five feet fall in one mile of the river at this place. We expect mills built here another season. I have a full set of mill irons stored in my cellar for that purpose. We have plenty of provisions here, although they come as yet by water from Detroit. Here is plenty of fish and plenty of game, and the greatest country for honey that I ever saw. * * * N. B.-Direct your letters to Grand Rapids, 58 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. county of Kent, Michigan. We have a post office here by the name of Grand Rapids. To JESSE VAUGHAN, JOEL GUILI), SARAH VAUGHAN. ABBY GIIII). THAT FAMILY GROUP. The fact that they were the first of the pioneers of the permanent settlement of Grand Rapids by the white people, entitles the Guild family to some prominence in a history of this place. Louis and Toussaint Campau were here before, as traders with the Indians, and then determined to remain here, and were joined by their brothers and the Godfroys soon afterward. The Slater family were on mission ground, on the west side of the river, in what was then Indian territory, but soon moved away. The coming of the Guild family, therefore, marks the date of the beginning of permanent settlement. Of Joel Guild's family there were nine-himself and wife, Harriet, Consider, Emily 0., Mary L., Olive, Elvira E. and Mary L. married Robert Barr. Olive married Frederick A. Marsh, and, after his death, Guy S. Walden. Elvira E. became the wife of Albert Baxter. Lucy E. became the wife of 1. S. T. Weller. Edward Guild came down from Ionia in the spring of 1834, and soon after came another brother, Daniel Guild, and the three, with their relatives by kinship and marriage, constituted a circle of three or four score persons; no inconsiderable share of the little settlement in its beginning. Joel Guild was then a man in the full vigor of middle life, not large, but compact and muscular in build, and of extraordinary exuberance of spirits. He met with an accident-fracture or dislocation of the hip-eighteen months after he came, which caused a limp in his gait; but nothing could damp his jovial good nature, nor his disposition to keep all who were about him in good humor. For more than a quarter of a century it was the custom of that family to meet several times a year at the home of some one of their number, and have, as they were wont to say, "a jolly good visit," always freely inviting their neighbors, filling the houses to their full capacity, and there are many still living who remember those reunions as among the most pleasurable of their pioneer experience. Joel Guild had little faculty to accumulate property, or he might have grown rich. He was a stirring, bustling, busy man, but always seemed more to enjoy the spending of money for the entertainment of his family and friends, than its hoarding, or any purely selfish use. He was inquisitive, and better than a pocket almanac for consultation as to the names and whereabouts of the people of this valley, for many years.' He seldom met a new comer without learning quickly all about him. An instance: One cold day a stranger hitched his horse at the gate, and came to the door, while the family were at dinner. Mr. Guild pressingly invited him in. No, he could not stop; he wished only to learn where a certain man lived, and the way thither. He was informed, the object of his inquiry being a new settler some ten miles south. This in less than two minutes; but in two minutes more, by a fusilade of adroit questioning, Mr. Guild had learned the man's name, where he came from, where he was going and what he intended to do. The gentleman showed no sign of annoyance, answered pleasantly and briefly, mounted JOEL G(t' 11. Lucy E., in the order here named. Of the children, at this date (I889), only the oldest, Mrs. Harriet Burton, is living. Consider lived in or near town until about I858, when he removed to Georgetown, Ottawa county, where he died in i883. He married Phebe Leavitt, who died in I853. He again married Mrs. Theresa McCabe, nee Campau, who survives him. Emily 0. became the wife of Leonard G. Baxter. HOSTS AND HELPERS-THE I'IONEER CLUSTER. his horse and rode off. As Mr. Guild closed the door, much to the relief of the inmates who had been shivering in the keen wind while he stood there, a guest who had the misfortune to stammer, accosted him with: "Uncle J-j-j-oel, w-w-why d-d-didn't you ask him out of his b-b-breeches?" Joel Guild was chosen Assessor at the first town election here, and was the first Supervisor of the town of Paris, where he lived many years, and finally moved back into the city, which was his home when he died, May 26, i856, aged 68 years. Abby, his first wife, died in i844. HOSTI'S ANI HELPERS. The Campaus, Louis and Toussaint, who were trading with the Indians, but became permanent settlers when the Guilds and others of 1833 came in, and Antoine and George who soon joined them, might be termed the hosts and helpers of the pioneers. Louis, especially, not only gave the colonists a cordial reception, but was energetic and generous, even beyond his pecuniary means, to aid them in getting a good start, and in the founding of the new community. The Campaus were men of fine presence, courteous, gentlemanly, warmhearted and liberal, Louis enthusiastically so, and his wife in her house had always a hearty and genial welcome for all the new comers. He rarely stopped to count the cost of favors to his friends, and the most of the profits of the fine property in the heart of the town, which was originally his, went ultimately to the use of other and craftier people. His brothers were less demonstrative, but all won genuine respect and admiration, and as among the founders of our now bustling and wealthy city, are well worthy of memory and veneration. The widow of Toussaint Campau, whose maiden name was Emily Marsac, is still living. The Lincolns, Burtons, Turners, Joneses, Winsors, Gordons and othersfamilies that came in the same year, or quickly after-were also the aids and coworkers in the planting and stimulating of the pioneer settlement which was destined to grow and become the second town in importance of our beautiful Peninsula and now proud State of Michigan. Those early settlers all deserve the honored place in memory and in veneration which history accords them. It was theirs to begin the carving of the wilderness into civilized homes; to labor with small means and rigid frugality, but with strong arms and heroic hearts; to struggle with poverty and privation and not infrequently with misfortunes; to drive out wild beasts, to supplant savages, and to subdue and tame and cultivate the land, for the founding of the enlightened society and community, whose golden benefits and luxuries we now enjoy. THE PIONEER C LUSTER. Though there were many comers and goers that year-land-lookers, explorers and visitors, and a considerable number who then or soon after took lands and made homes near by, east, south and west-very few in I833 became permanent settlers in Grand Rapids. In family account books of that period, still preserved, and other cotemporary writings, appear the names of Barney Burton, Josiah Burton, Eliphalet H. Turner, William R. Godwin, Gideon H. Gordon, James Gordon, Warner Dexter, Luther Lincoln, Ira Jones, Nathaniel P. Roberts, Sylvester Sibley, Myron Roys, Joseph B. Copeland, Henry West, Andrew D. W. Stout, James Archibald, and Jonathan F. Chubb. The latter came with his family in November, and brought with him a small stock of goods. Lincoln had been here the previous year and located land at Grandville, and Stephen Tucker and Daniel Tucker settled in that township. A daughter of Mr. Lincoln, Keziah, then a small girl, is now living in the city-Mrs. Benjamin Livingston-and leads all others in length of continuous residence here. Among the settlers of 1834, here and in the immediate vicinity, are mentioned Richard Godfroy, who had previously been an Indian agent or trader at Saline, near the headwaters of Grand River, Antoine Campau, Daniel D. Whiteman, Andrew Robbins, Daniel North, Robert M. Barr, Joseph S. Potter, Ezekiel W. Davis, Julius C. Abel, Ephraim P. Walker, William McCausland, Louis Moran, Robert Howlett, Aaron Sibley, Willard Sibley, Alvin H. Wansey, Jared Wansey, James Watson, Lewis Reed, Porter Reed, Ezra Reed, Joel Sliter, James Sliter, Horace Gray, Hiram Hinsdill, Lyman Gray, William R. Barnard, Abram S. Wadsworth, Edward Guild, Martin Ryerson, Darius \Vinsor, Cyrus Jones. In i835-James Clark, Lucius Lyon, Jef 60 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. ferson Morrison, John Almy, William Hinsdill, Dwight Lyman, James Lyman,William H. Godfroy, Joseph Marion, N. 0. Sargeant, Dr. Stephen A. Wilson, Dr. Charles Shepard, David S. Leavitt, Demetrius Turner, Rev. Andreas Viszoczky, Justus C. Rogers, Edward Feakins, Abraham Laraway, Amos Hosford Smith, Leonard G. Baxter, Alanson Cramton, Charles G. Mason. In 1836-Samuel Howland, William G. Henry, Myron Hinsdill, Maxime Ringuette, John Ringuette, Samuel F. Perkins, Daniel W. Evans, Lovell Moore, Sylvester Granger, Isaac Turner, Charles H. Taylor, David Burnett, Howard Jennings, Simeon S. Stewart, Henry C. Smith, Kendall Woodward, James Short, James Scribner, Thomas Sargeant, Hezekiah Green, George Martin, Charles I. Walker, Abel Page, William A. Richmond, Loren M. Page, John Ball, James McCrath, John McCrath, William McCrath, John Pannell, Harry Eaton, J. Mortimer Smith, George M. Mills, Warren P. Mills, H. R. Osborn, George A. Robinson, William Haldane, Robert Hilton, George C. Nelson, James M. Nelson, Charles P. Calkins, John W. Peirce, George Coggeshall, Samuel L. Fuller, Solomon Withey, Billius Stocking. In 1837-Josiah L. Wheeler, Jacob Barns, John T. Holmes, Canton Smith, William' Morman, Harry Dean, Samuel F. Butler, Luman R. Atwater, John Friend, Truman Kellogg, Truman H. Lyon, Noble H. Finney, Leonard Covell, Joseph J. Baxter, William I. Blakely, James A. Rumsey, Henry Stone, Edmund B. Bostwick, Harry H. Ives, John Kirkland, Aaron Dikeman, William C. Davidson, Hezekiah Green, George Young, Eli Johnson, Archibald Salmon, Edward S. Marsh, Gouverneur B. Rathbun. This is by no means a complete list, nor could such a list now be made, but it comprises the larger portion of the well remembered pioneers of the first four years. They did not all become residents of this townmost of them settled here, and the others within a few miles of this point. SOME OF THE CALLERS. In i834, or thereabout, came one Silas W. Titus, as an agent of President Andrew Jackson, on business pertaining to the negotiations for the Indian treaty of I835, for the cession to the Government of lands north of Grand River. He conferred, while here, with Rix Robinson, Louis Campau, Leonard Slater, and other Indian agents and parties interested in the missions, and induced the delegation to go to Washington to sell all the lands here and northward, from Grand Haven to Maple River. Mexci-ne-ne (sometimes spelled Miccissininni, but Andrew J. Blackbird says Mex-ci-ne-ne should be the correct spelling according to the Indian pronunciation), and other Indian chiefs went with that delegation, whose journey resulted in the consummation of the treaty. Titus came in on horseback and alone from Kalamazoo, bringing a bag of oats from Gull Prairie to Oakville (the Oakes settlement at Grandville), in a daysupposed to be a pretty good day's ride in a new country, without the oats. During the War of the Rebellion he became Colonel of the 122d New York Volunteers, and afterward lived at Syracuse. In i834, among the transient visitors or explorers here, were two men from Washington county, Vermont, named Abel Drew and Wait Farr. They caught the emigration fever then prevalent at the East, and started to see for themselves the new paradise which they heard was to be found in the Valley of the Grand River. They were bachelor farmers, and not at all enthusiastic. They went back and reported that they had spent a few weeks at the Rapids, in a little settlement of a dozen families, "a hundred miles from nowhere, and at a little tavern about big enough for a cheese house, where there were five or six of the prettiest little girls west of Montpelier." They said "the land was middlin' good, but the people wouldn't have a market half as good as Boston in a hundred years." So they settled down and worked hard and died contented at the Green Mountain home of their boyhood. SPECULATION RIFE. From the beginning of i836, the growth of this town by immigration was rapid; but there is no record of an accurate census prior to 1845, when the total population of town and village was reported to be 1,510. Enthusiastic advertisers of the place boasted of a population of i,ooo or more in 1837, which undoubtedly was a very great exaggeration. In the early part of 1838 it was estimated that there were about 1,200 per EARLY MAMRIAGES AND BIRTHS. sons in the county, including nearly 800 Indians. But the growth of the first four years was flattering, and the people indulged in great expectations, for which, indeed, they had good reason, but in which they were measurably disappointed. The spectulative fever which became general in i836, gave a great impetus to prices, not only of real estate but of all commodities, and the reaction which came in 1837 was inevitable. Splendid villages, and cities also, suddenly came into view —on paper —and plats and lots were sold at fabulous prices. Grand Rapids caught the fever. Village lots here rose quickly from $25 to $300, and from that still mentioned, beyond the fact that it ran him in debt about $5,000. Being pecuniarily embarrassed, when the pinch came, he traded it for four parcels of real estate at $1,500 each, the value of which soon dropped nearly to a tenth part of their cost to him. Antoine Campau used to relate an anecdote as to part of his own experience in the inflation, and the bursting of the bubble. He bought a tract near the mouth of Grand River for $ioo. Soon came an offer of $300, which he refused. Then $500, $8oo, and so on up. Said he, "I thought if it was worth so much to them, it was worth so much to me. But finally I offered to sell. Then the value dropped, and every offer was lower than before. Finally I was MRS. HAKRIET B'URTON. upward, for choice locations, till speculators ran wild in the haste to grow rich. But the revulsion came, not only in property but in currency, and knocked the foundation from many an air castle. Visionary banking schemes, which had been thickly planted all over the State, went with the rest. Nearly all went largely in debt, and many soon had cause to bemoan their disastrous investments and speculative ventures. As an illustration of the change wrought by the financial- crash, it is related that Jefferson Morrison, in I836, built what was for those times a fine residence, just south of Monroe and +west of Ionia street, cost not BARNEY BUIRION. offered $300, and thought I would go down and see the place. When I got there, I couldn't see it. I asked everybody where it was, and hired a friend to look it up. I could not find it, he could not find it, the record could not find it, nobody could find it-it was under more as twenty feet of water." The land was described by metes and bounds, beginning a certain specified distance west of the lighthouse, which located it well out in the lake. He lost his faith in land dealers, and entered no more such speculations. EARLY MARRIAGES AND BIRTHS. The first marriage in Grand Rapids, of white people, was that of Barney Burton HIST'ORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAtPIDS. and Harriet Guild. She was a lass just twenty years old on the day of her arrival here, and he was a young man who had come into the town of Paris and taken up land and was preparing for himself a farm. The wedding was a quiet one, at her home. They were married April 13, I834, and immediately began housekeeping at the place he had provided. The second marriage is believed to be that of Toussaint Campau and Emily Marsac, November 27, I834. To this wedding nearly everybody in the settlement was invited, the ceremony taking place at the Catholic Chapel on the west side, after which there was feasting and dancing under the purveyance of Louis Campau. The next marriage of record in the township appears to have been that of Asa Fuller and Susan Dwinnell, for which license was issued March 13, i835, by the Town Clerk of Kent (since Grand Rapids). The earliest births of white persons here were those of three children of the Missionary Leonard Slater, as elsewhere related in this work. But the Slater family were here on a special mission and in a few years moved away with the Indians attached to their charge. There have been several contestants for the honor of being considered the first-born of the permanent white settlers here. The preponderance of testimony concerning the early births seems to settle down to about these conclusions: Eugene Winsor was the first-born among the pioneer colonists of this valley, the date being October I4, I833, at lonia. At Grand Rapids the first birth was that of Therese Carmell, daughter of Antoine and Therese Carmell, June 2i, I834. Mr. Carmell was a blacksmith who came here in May, 1833, and worked in Louis Campau's log shop. He afterward built and lived in a small log house, where this daughter was born, near the Eagle Hotel. His widow, 76 years of age, is now Mrs. Therese Girrard, residing near Ludington. Next in order is Lewis Burton, son of Josiah and Elizabeth Burton, who was born October 5, I834, in a little log house on the east side of Division street, a few rods south of Blakely avenue. Lewis is now a farmer near Ada village. Helen Reed (Mrs. Outhwaite of Muskegon), daughter of Ezra Reed, was born March 25, i835, at the bank of Reeds Lake, where now is the terminus of the Reeds Lake Street Railway, in a small log house. A daughter of Richard Godfroy (afterward Mrs. S. J. Sarsfield of Muskegon), was born March 31, I835, in a house which stood where now is the Grand Rapids National Bank, at the corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets. Henry Genia, now living at Mackinaw City, was born March 28, I836, near the Catholic Church at the Indian village. Further than this it would be useless to attempt to particularize in regard to early births. The first funeral of a white man was that of George Sizer, in -the summer of I835. He was shot by an Indian who mistook him for a deer, while watching a deer-lick, in the twilight or after dark. CHAPTER V. INCIDENTS AND REMINISCENCES. GRAND RAPIDS from its settlement is only fifty-six years old; but it is not much younger than are many western cities of larger proportions and pretensions. Detroit was the leading city of what was then called the West, in i833. It has a history of nearly a century, since its growth from a mere military outpost began. In i8io Wayne county had a population of 2,227; in i830, 6,78i; in i840, 24,173. With these facts in view, bear it in mind that the active growth of Chicago, Milwaukee and Grand Rapids did not begin till about I833, and then these three started very nearly together. Neither Cook county in Illinois, nor Milwaukee county in Wisconsin, nor Kent county in Michigan, appears in the census returns of i830. In I840 they had populations of: Cook county, IO,20I; Milwaukee county 5,605; Kent county, 2,587. Chicago, Milwaukee and Grand Rapids, therefore, were equally in the wilderness in i833, when Chicago had only about one hundred inhabitants and five or six log houses outside its fort, and Milwaukee and Grand Rapids each only its trading post, near by which started the settlement in that year. There were Indians, and wild animals all about; and all pioneers doubtless have their hair-raising reminiscences. G;ITTING LOST IN THE W\OOiS. While the pioneer colony were on their way here, Zenas G. Winsor and Consider Guild, two young men of the party, in pursuit of cattle that had strayed from their camp, lost their bearings, by which the whole party were delayed the greater part of a day in the search for them. Later in the same season, Jacob W\. Winsor, coming in with an Indian pony from Shiawassee, being belated in the woods east of Lyons, and the wolves being too numerous for his peace of mind, concluded to climb a tree, which he did and remained there through the night, and thus lost his pony. In the spring of the same year, Barney Burton and three hired men came from Ypsilanti, with five yoke of oxen, a horse, a cow, and a wagon load of provisions. Before reaching the Thornapple River they stopped, pitched their camp for the night, spanceled the horse and turned him out to feed. In the morning the horse was missing, having somehow got loose from his shackles. Burton directed the men to go on with the teams, while he should find the horse and follow. This was easier said than done. He found the track of the horse, which he soon lost again, and shortly after became bewildered. Lost in the forest, he wandered three days and two nights. Coming to a small stream at length, he followed it to the Thornapple, and then went down that river, knowing it would eventually bring him to the Rapids. Coming out on the third day at Ada, where his wants were ministered to and his hunger appeased at Rix Robinson's, he found no further difficulty in reaching his home. Meantime his companions had arrived with the teams, and reported his disappearance, over which the few people then here were much excited. Mr. Campau had sent several Indians, with a supply of food, to hunt him up; but as he came home in about two hours, it was found necessary to dispatch another party of Indians to bring back the first. Similar instances of becoming confused and losing the way were frequent hereabout, and sometimes the adventures were spiced by the near approach of wild beasts, and occasionally intensified by the inclemency of the weather. A settler on the Thornapple river, William H. Brown, traveling on horseback, lost his way, and passed the night in deep snow in the woods. Having no means to light a fire, he made a circular 64 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. path in the snow, about which he tramped to keep himself from freezing. The next.day he came out at Green Lake, himself and horse nearly exhausted. Late in the fall of i837 Leonard Covell and Harvey K. Rose started into the woods one day, in what is now the town of Walker, to pre-empt some lands. Two others were to accompany them, but were not on hand when they crossed the river. There was a light snow on the ground, and they went ahead, expecting that the others would overtake them. They began to look over the land. After walking some time, they came upon the tracks of two men going westward, and, thinking their companions were in the woods, turned and followed them. By and by they came upon four tracks, and then the truth began to dawn upon them that they had traveled in a circle and doubled upon their own tracks. They had lost their way, but this discovery set them right. They cleared a small spot of ground and put a pole and brush pre-emption shanty on the section line to serve for two claims. Upon returning, one of them entered his land, but the other was just in time to find that somebody was about two hours ahead of him in the land office. Even as late as November I2, 1859, Aaron B. Turner, attempting to walk from the mouth of the Muskegon River to Grand Haven, through the woods,. waded all one day in snow several inches deep, and often several inches of water under the snow, became lost, and, though extremely tired, resolutely walked all night in a circle to keep from freezing. After daylight he came again upon the same track he had traveled, but, guided by the sound of a locomotive whistle, at length came out at Ferrysburg, pretty thoroughly exhausted from his severe exertion, having buffeted the storm for thirty-six hours, without food, and reached only twelve miles from his starting point. WILD ANIMALS ABOUT. One night in I833 Louis Campau's people were startled by a great commotion amongst their fowls. They made more noise than usual. He had near his log house, at 'the foot of Huron street, a hen house, made also of logs, and strongly built, in which he kept three or four dozen hens. Hearing the cackling, his men went out and closed and fastened the heavy door to that coop. Soon the noise ceased. On going out in the morning, they found plenty of feathers, but no hens. In their place a very active wolf showed his teeth, and snarled. They shot him, took off his pelt, and dragged his carcass up the Monroe street Indian trail, where for several days its location could easily be found, either by the sense of smell or by watching the buzzards. Sometimes there were wolves, and sometimes bears. Joel Guild, in I835, built him a small house a short distance northeast of the present city limits, on what he called his "marsh farm." Hearing a terrific squealing among his swine one night, he went out to investigate, and found in his hog sty a lusty shoat struggling between the paws of a much lustier bear, who was just about carrying his victim over the log wall. Mr. Bruin had not the courage of his convictions, and, though the rescuing party had no weapon, dropped the lacerated porker and ambled away into the woods. Barney Burton was favored with a visit among his swine by a pack of wolves, which succeeded in getting away with some of his pigs, themselves unhurt, although closely pursued. AN UNFORTUNATE COW. Early in the season after the pioneer settlers came in, Louis Campau, who kept a number of cows, missed a very fine one, the most valuable one of his herd. No trace of the animal could be found for several days, when, attracted by the action of crows or buzzards hovering about the spot, some citizens instituted search in a cedar swamp, on the side of the hill, north of Bridge and west of Ionia street. It was a thick jungle, near the center of which came out the very large spring since known as the Kusterer spring. In the mire, or quicksand, they found the cow, helpless and nearly exhausted, unable to get out. The crows or buzzards had nearly picked bare the bones of her back, feeding themselves from her live flesh. The cow was rescued, her wounds healed, and for some years again she was a valuable animal. BAGGING A BEAR. William Haldane, yet living, tells a good bear story. In i837, while on his way from Ohio with a horse and buggy, on the trail between Yankee Springs and Ada, he saw what at first he thought was a dog, ambling A RESCUE-A SHOULDER LOAD OF PORK. 65 toward him, in front and in the pathway. It was a welcome sight, as he was a little in doubt about his bearings, and hoped the dog's master might be near. On coming nearer, the animal, instead of turning out, raised upon his haunches and seemed disposed to maintain his right of way; Mr. H. therefore reined to one side and passed at a respectful distance. Coming opposite, he stopped to look at the beast, which, though it sat facing him, did not seem aggressive. The animal, after a moment, took fright and ran to a tree, which it climbed. At once dawned upon Mr. Haldane's mind the fact that he had met a yearling bear, instead of a dog. After waiting a little, and no one coming along, he determined to try and capture the animal. He tried clubbing, but the bear only climbed higher. He then took a rein from his harness and followed. Making a slipnoose he succeeded in getting it about the bear's neck, and after much pulling and choking brought it to the ground, by that time quite exhausted by the strangling. He then lifted it into his buggy, where, by the use of a hopple and halter and straps, he tied it securely. A little further along, on a piece of corduroy road, bruin was roused by the jolting and attempted to escape. But he only hung over by the wheel till the choking again disabled and subdued him, and this time Mr. Haldane drew over him a coffee sack, or feed bag. Arriving at the mouth of the Thornapple after nightfall, he found lodgings at the house of John W. Fisk. Mrs. Fisk objected to the company of a bear in her room, therefore she and her husband slept up stairs, Mr. Haldane sleeping below, with the bear under his bed. He had no difficulty in bringing the animal home, and it soon became tame and a pet in the neighborhood. But civilization proved too much for his bearship. With petting and high feeding he grew fat, but died, apparently, as has many a gourmand, a victim of gluttony. A LITTLE CYCLONE. Eliphalet H. Turner first settled just beyond that creek south of the fair grounds; and Cyrus Jones settled just north of the same creek, building himself a small log house. In the summer of i836 a tornado or wind storm swept across that spot, toward the northeast, demolishing the log 5 hut and scattering its contents far away. A barrel nearly filled with flour was carried many rods and set upon the ground with only part of the flour spilled. In the house were the family of nine persons, one of them an infant child. The mother with the beds, bedding and furniture were caught up and carried some distance, yet she was but slightly hurt. Only the floor and a few of the bottom logs were left to mark the spot where the house stood, and when the hurricane had passed the child was nowhere in sight. After a long search, some one lifted a trap door in the floor, and lo, in the little hole that had served for a temporary cellar, was the babe with its cradle and pillows, unhurt. A RESCUE FROM THE FLOOD). The following is Mrs. Wm. Almy Richmond's story of the breaking up of the ice in Grand River in i838, and the rescue of the persons surrounded by the flood at the old fur trading station: It was on a bright spring-like day early in February. Suddenly, without warning, while we were at dinner, the waters began to rise about the little knoll on which our log house and the block house adjoining stood. The cracking, jamming ice arose in threatening, jagged masses, all about us, and forced the water of the river into a new channel to the east, cutting us off entirely from the main land. My father, Major Abel Page, was absent from home, as was also Mr. John Almy (afterward Judge), who lived in the next house. Mrs. Almy (sister of John W. and Peter R. L. Pierce), and her friend, Miss Harriet Fisk, of Geneseo, N. Y., were in their house; and my mother, the three children, Harriet, Abel and, Aaron, my husband (Wm. A. Richmond), and myself, were in our house. The alarm spread on shore, of course, but for some reason, no boat was available. The water rose so that we were driven to the roof, and the case looked very desperate, when away above was discovered a boat on the ice, which had been brought down by the flood. The brave, warm-hearted Jacob W. Winsor, at great peril to himself, finally reached that boat, and brought it to our rescue, amid the huzzas of the people on the shore. When the first load reached the shore, some of the excited young men waded out and carried the living freight bodily to terra firma. A SHOULDER LOAD OF PORK. Henry and Joseph Genia (brothers) came here in i834 and went into the employ of Louis Campau. They were carpenters by trade. Henry was the elder of the two, and the stronger; both were muscular, though not very large men. It is related that on a certain occasion, when Jefferson Morrison had procured a stock of several barrels of 66 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. pork, which were ranged along the platform in front of his store, Henry Genia remarked: "I wish the Judge would give me a barrel of that pork; I would shoulder it and carry it home." To do that he must wade the river at the ford, near where Fulton street bridge now crosses. Morrison instantly said: "I will give you a barrel if you will back it home, and you may have one chance to rest, when you reach the other bank of the river; if you put it down more than once I shall charge you the full price." Genia shouldered it, waded the river, backed up to a fence which stood there, on the top of which he placed it and rested a few moments; then shouldered it again and made no further stop until he unloaded it at tlhe door of his dwelling, nearly fifty rods beyond. It was an extraordinary feat, not solely on account of the great weight of the load, but of its form also, making it one difficult to handle and carry in that manner. He lived near the little Catholic Church that was built for the Indians there. JOURNEYING IN THE WOODS. At a meeting of the Detroit Pioneer Society, some sixteen years ago, J. C. Holmes read a paper descriptive of an early journey through the woods from Detroit to Grand Rapids and back. Following is in substance the more interesting part of his narrative: In the autumn of 1835, Mr. Hutchinson called on me and said his firm had purchased the plat of the village of Saranac, said village being located on Grand River, a short distance above the Rapids, and destined to become a large city. Before offering the lots for sale, he wished to visit the place, and see what it was, so that in selling he might act understandingly as to location, prices and relative values of lots. He invited me to go with him. The trip was to be made on horseback, the most expeditious and comfortable way at that time of reaching that out-of-the-way place-Grand Rapids. We started early one morning, and after riding all day over a very bad road, reached Ypsilanti. Next day we proceeded to Ann Arbor, and reached Jackson in the evening. The third day we rode to Marshall, the fourth to Gull Prairie. On the morning of the fifth day we rode to Kalamazoo. On the sixth day we rode to Louis Moran's, a very comfortable log hotel with a large chimney in the center; a ladder up against the chimney for ascending to the lodging apartment, which was the attic of the building. The floor boards of the attic were few and far between, the beds were filled with the coarsest of prairie grass, familiarly known as prairie feathers. The meals furnished us at that house were excellent. The seventh day we started early for Grand Rapids, thirty miles distant, where we hoped to arrive before dark. But the road for the whole distance was little better than an Indian trail. Soon after leaving Moran's we forded the Thornapple River, which was about two and a half feet deep, and went north on the east side of the stream. The day was cold, and in the latter palt of the afternoon snow began to fall. About four o'clock, having traveled all day without seeing a habitation of any kind, we again reached the Thornapple near its mouth. Here we must recross the river. It was usually two to three feet deep at this point, and this was the fording place, but ice had formed in the Grand River and in the Thornapple, which caused the water to rise several feet; and the ice was so thick we could not swim our horses across, but not strong enough to bear us up. Here was a dilemma, but we must go forward, for there was no house on the back track between ourselves and Moran's, thirty miles-a day's ride. It was snowing fast, and the temperature of the atmosphere was falling rapidly. Seeing a small log house on the opposite side of the Thornapple, we called until we aroused the inmates. We found they were two men who were clearing a place at the junction of the Thornapple with the Grand River whereon to build a city. We asked them to assist us in crossing. To this they gave their assent. They cut two long saplings with pretty heavy butts, then laid some boards on the ice to stand upon, while with the saplings they broke a passage in the ice wide enough to take our horses through. One of the men fell through the ice two or three times; then gave up the job in disgust. The other continued the work until he reached us. He rode one of our horses and led the other, and succeeded in swimming them across the river, while we with the saddles upon our backs, lay down on the boards and by dint of crawling, and as we passed over the boards, throwing the last one forward, soon gained the wvest side, much to our satisfaction. After paying our deliverers, we saddled our shivering horses, mounted and rode as rapidly as the rough road would permit, to a log tavern a mile or two distant kept by Rix Robinson. Here we found good accommodations for man and beast. We cared for our horses, then partook of an excellent supper and retired to our lodging room, which was a portion of the attic. We were shown to a portion of the floor where was spread a prairie feather bed, and told we could occupy that. The rest of the floor was occupied by white men and Indians. Upon conversing with one of the white men, we found he was a Methodist minister who had been located near the Rapids as a preacher, He said he hqd tried it, but could not get anybody to hear him preach, so he had to give it up, and take a contract to build a mill dam at some point further up the Grand River. He had his men, tools and provisions along, and was on his way to fulfill his contract. We thought if this man was going up the river to build a mill dam, he could direct us to the village of Saranac. Upon questioning him, he informed us that he knew at what point on the river the said city had been laid out. He also knew we could not reach it with our horses if we should try, for there was no road, not even a trail through the dense forest. The only way of getting there was by boat when the river was navigable, but at that time it was very much swollen, and covered with thin ice, of course not navigable. This was not very pleasant news for us, who had traveled so many days for the purpose of finding the city of Saranac. JOURNEYING IN THE WOODS-SCARCITY OF PROVISIONS. 67 Notwithstanding the disappointment we had a good night's rest, and the next morning after breakfast we rode to Grand Rapids. Upon our arrival our first wish was to find a hotel, but there was none in the place. We then inquired for our friend N. 0. Sargeant, a gentleman in the bQot and shoe business in Detroit. He had purchased a large interest in the village plat of Grand Rapids, and was then at work building a mill-race, expecting to realize an immense fortune out of his speculation. \Ve soon found him, and he very kindly directed us to the only place he knew of where we would be likely to find lodgings. In this he was not mistaken, but the house was a new one, and the doors not yet hung. Notwithstanding this, there was a very pleasant family residing there, who took us in, and took very good care of us. We also found a shed in which to place our horses, but there seemed to be a scarcity of horse feed in the place. Mr. Sargeant was running short of feed, and was unable to supply us. Mr. Morrison, then and now of Grand Rapids, went with us to Mr. Louis Campau, the only man who could spare hay and oats, but upon application to him he refused to furnish our horses with feed, because, he said, a few days previous, he had permitted some Yankees to put their horses in his barn, and he had furnished hay and grain for them. The men had not only left without paying him, but they stole his halters. Therefore he would not have anything more to do with the Yankees. However, his good nature soon got the better of all that, and he sold us all the hay and grain we wanted. After spending a (lay and night there, and finding it would be impossible to visit Saranac, we left (;rand Rapids over an Indian trail, through a dense forest on the west side of the Thornapple, and late in the afternoon arrived at Moran's house in the wilderness, where we had been so well cared for a few days previous. We engaged supper and lodging, and spent a very pleasant evening with the guests of the house, several having arrived soon after ourselves. After supper, a young man started up the ladder that led to the attic. The landlord, noticing him, told him to come down. He said he was sick, and wished to go to bed. Mr. Moran said: "There is no bed for you; they are all engaged. If you are sick, the place for you is on the floor with your feet to the fire." The young man remonstrated, the landlord insisted, and said: "You can lie here on the floor-if you do not like my accommodations, you can go to the next house." Rather than go to the next house, which was thirty miles away, he took his place on the floor with his feet to the fire. In due course of time we arrived at our home in Detroit, having been absent about two weeks on our trip to (rand Rapids and back. A large portion of the food for man and beast had to be transported in wagons from Detroit or some other place to the Rapids. This was tedious and expensive. As Mr. Sargeant was employing a great many men, horses and cattle in building the mill race at Grand Rapids, he required a large amount of supplies. In order to facilitate transportation, he had some flat boats built at Jackson, loaded them with such provisions as he needed, and sent them down the Grand River to the Rapids. In these days of rapid railroad communication cases of positive suffering for want of wholesome food are very rare, and the needed relief is quickly supplied when they become known. But in the early settlements, and far away from the sources of supply, and when days and even weeks were necessary for transit over the long and rough roads of the wilderness, it sometimes happened that a scarcity of provisions would occasion protracted suffering, in some cases bordering close upon actual starvation. Yet in this valley there were not many which went to that extreme. Old pioneers can remember instances when there was no flour or meal to be had, or when there were no potatoes or pork within reach. In such times they would be forced to practice the most rigid economy and frugAlity, which, happily, they survived, soutnd and hearty, as a rule, with the remembrance of their severe experience to add zest to the better times that followed. Few at the present day can realize, except in imagination, the actual state of being compelled to live for weeks at a time upon potatoes and salt, or codfish and potatoes, or rice and milk only, as the chief table supply, and sometimes not even a sufficiency of suich homely fare. Yet there were sulch instances among the pioneer inhabitants. In the adjoining town of Paris, during a portion of one summer, until garden vegetables could be grown, they had little but a meager supply of flour or corn meal. And in after years the members of one family often recounted their experiences with mingled jokes and laughter, though sometimes they were really "no joke." Visiting parties from the village would go out there, on seeing whom, the girls would run into the house, calling: "Mother! mother! there are a lot of folks coming from town; what shall we get for them? Bread and butter and onions?" And indeed, for the chief part, the best meal they could serve would be "bread and butteer and onions," with perhaps a little milk. But such days were speedily passed, and they left no sting. One can scarcely comprehend it now. In the fall of I837 a company of immigrants coming by way of Green Lake could only procure at the tavern there a supply of potatoes and onions, with a scant trimming of bread and a little venison which one of the travelers had. In the spring of the same year there was a scarcity of flour, and sturgeon was the principal meat with many for several weeks. In the 68 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. following winter and spring was also much scarcity and provisions were very high. Feed for cattle and horses was also short, and several of the settlers cut down trees to furnish browse for their animals. Such were among the many and various experiences of the hardy pioneers-toils and privations most of the present generation would not think they could endure. If now called to the test they would be apt to-strike for higher wages and less hours of labor. In the early part of i838 the Rev. Andreas Viszoczky 'was sent for to administer the consolations of his ministerial office to a dying Indian at or near Black Lake or Port Sheldon. The snow was deep, but, with an Indian guide, he started on foot, and, after passing Grandville, through thick and trackless woods. As they proceeded they encountered deeper snow, the weather grew piercing cold, and darkness overtook them while in the forest. There they were obliged to stop and pass the night, on their feet and vigorously exercising themselves by constant tramping about within a small circle of beaten snow, to avoid freezing. They were without food, but reached Port Sheldon early in the following day, and with a frugal breakfast were quickly over their fatigue. Father Viszoczky never dodged hardship or peril when he felt that duty called him, and he made many similar journeys to minister to sick or suffering Indians within his charge. It was to such an exposure that his final illness was attributed. His persistence was such that on the morning of his death he rose from his bed and rang the bell which sunmmoned those of his household and the Acolytes of his church about him. In some of the early years of the settlements about the Rapids wolves were plenty. But those animals seemed to have something of the Indian migratory habit or instinct-when their game became scarce they would move off. At one time in the dense woods in the south part of Kent county the wolves were so plenty as to be very annoying, and often the settlers would be summarily robbed by those night prowlers of sheep, calves, hogs, and domestic fowls. A few instances of close fights with wolves, by persons wandering alone, are on record; but no fatalities, except on the part of the beasts. When the wolves emigrated, the deer increased rapidly and the settlers had a great abundance of venison for a few years. About 1854 it became almost a drug in the market. The first twenty years covered the period of greatest sport near home for the hunters of this valley. CHAPTER VI. EARLY DESCRIPTIVE SKETCHES. OF;GR1EAT interest are some of the published sketches of Grand Rapids, its people, and its progress during the first dozen years after settlement. Prominent among these, and worthy of historic preservation, is the leading editorial article of the first number of the first newspaper in Grand Rapids, some copies of which are still in existence. Besides its glowing description of the place, it is interesting for its bright-hued anticipations: ''THE ROCHESTEIR OF MICHIGAN." [IFrom the Grand River Tinmes, April 18, i837]. Though young in its improvements, the site of this village has long been known and esteemed for its natural advantages. It was here that the Indian Traders long since made their grand depot. It was at this point that the missionary herald established his institution of learning-taught the forest child the beauty of civilization, and inestimable benefits of the Christian religion. This has been the choicest, dearest spot to the unfortunate Indian, and now is the pride of the white man. Like other villages of the west, its transition from the savage to a civilized state has been as sudden as its prospects are now flattering. Who would have believed, to have visited this place two years since, when it was only inhabited by a few families, most of whom were of French origin, a people so eminent for exploring the wilds and meandering rivers, that this place would now contain its twelve hundred inhabitants? Who would have imagined that thus rapid would have been the improvement of this romantic place? The rapidity of its settlement is beyond the most visionary anticipation; but its location, its advantages, and its clime, were sufficient to satisfy the observing mind that nothing but the frown of Providence could blast its prospects! The river upon which this town is situated is one of the most important and delightful to be found in the country-not important and beautiful alone for its clear, silver-like water winding its way through a romantic valley of some hundred miles, but for its width and depth, its susceptibility for steam navigation, and the immense hydraulic power afforded at this point. We feel deeply indebted to our Milwaukee friends for their lucid description of the advantages to be derived from a connection of the waters of this river with those of Detroit, by canal or railroad. A canal is nearly completed around the Rapids at this place, sufficiently large to admit boats to pass up and down, with but little detention. Several steamboats are now preparing to commence regular trips from Lyons, at the mouth of the Maple River, to this place, a distance of sixty miles; and from this to Grand Haven, a distance of thirty-five or forty miles; thence to Milwaukee and Chicago. Thus the village of Grand Rapids, with a navigable stream-a water power of twenty-five feet fallan abundance of crude building materials-stone of excellent quality-pine, oak and other timber in immense quantities within its vicinity, can but flourish-can but be the Rochester of Michigan! The basement story of an extensive mill, one hundred and sixty by forty feet, is now completed; a part of the extensive machinery is soon to be put in operation. There are now several dry goods and grocery stores-some three or four public houses-one large church erected, and soon to be finished in good style, upon the expense of a single individual, who commenced business a few years ago by a small traffic with the Indians. Such is the encouragement to western pioneers! The village plat is upon a bold bank of the river, extending back upon an irregular plain, some eighty to a hundred rods, to rising bluffs, from the base and sides of which some of the most pure, crystal-like fountains of water burst out in boiling springs, pouring forth streams that murmur over their pebbly bottoms, at once a delight to the eye, and an invaluable luxury to the thirsty palate. New England may surpass this place with her lofty mountains, but not with her greatest boastpurity and clearness of water. Our soil is sandy, and mostly dry. The town is delightful, whether you view it from the plain, upon the banks of the river, or from the bluffs that overlook the whole surrounding country. To ascend these bluffs, you take a gradual rise to the height of a hundred feet, when the horizon only limits the extent of vision. The scenery to an admirer of beautiful landscape is truly picturesque and romantic. Back, east of the town, is seen a wide-spread plain of burr-oak, at once easy to cultivate, and inviting to the agriculturist. Turning westward, especially at the setting of the sun, you behold the most enchanting prospect-the din of the ville below-the broad sheet of water murmuring over the Rapids-the sunbeams dancing upon its swift-gliding ripples-the glassy river at last losing itself in its distant meanderings-present a scenery that awakens the most lively emotions. But the opposite shore, upon which you behold a rich, fertile plain, still claims no small amount of admiration. Near the bank of the river is seen the little rude village of the more civilized Indians-their uncouth framed dwellings-their little churches and their mound-like burying places. The number and 70 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. size of the mounds which mark the spot where lie the remains of the proud warrior, and the more humble of his untamed tribe, too plainly tell the endearments of that lovely plain to the native aborigines, and how quick the mind will follow the train of associations to by-gone days, and contrast these reflections with present appearances. Thus we see the scenes of savage life, quickly spread upon the broad canvas of the imagination-the proud chieftain seated, and his tribe surrounding the council fires-the merry wardance-the wild amusements of the "red man of the forest," and as soon think of their present unhappy condition; the bright flame of their lighted piles has been extinguished, and with it has faded the keen, expressive brilliancy of the wild man's eye! Their lovely Washtenong, upon which their light canoes have so long glided, is now almost deserted! It is from this point, too, that you can see in the distance the evergreen tops of the lofty pine, waving in majesty above the sturdy oak, the beech and maple, presenting to the eye a wild, undulating plain, with its thousand charms. Such are the location, the beauties and advantages of this youthful town. The citizens are of the most intelligent, enterprising and industrious character. Their buildings are large, tasty and handsomely furnished-the clatter of mallet and chisel-the clink of hammersthe many newly raised and recently covered frames -and the few skeleton boats upon the wharves of the river, speak loudly for the enterprise of the place! Mechanics of all kinds find abundance of employ, and reap a rich reward for their labor. Village property advances in value, and the prospect of wealth is alike flattering to all! What the result of such advantages and prospects will be, time alone must determine. But a view of this place and its vicinity, where we find a rich and fertile soil, watered with the best of springs, and enjoying, as we do, a salubrious climate, a healthful atmosphere, and the choicest gifts of a benign Benefactor, would satisfy almost any one that this will soon be a bright star in the constellation of western villages. Such, gentle reader, is a faint description of the place from which our paper hails-from which, we hope, will emanate matter as pleasing and interesting, as the town is beautiful and inviting! Evidently the editor of the Times in his enthusiasm overdrew the picture somewhat; especially in the statements regarding the water power, the steamboat building and the canal improvement. JOHN BALL'S NARRATIVE. Many years ago the Hon. John Ball wrote out for the Old Residents' Association a narrative of his first experience and observations at Grand Rapids, and up and down the valley, covering a period of some eight or ten years after his arrival in 1836. The principal design of his communication was to give a sketch of his personal relations to the Grand River Valley in those times; and as he was a man not fluent in verbal speech, but one who always traveled with his eyes open, and preserved written notes of what he saw, his story is of surpassing interest, and as time passes must be more and more appreciated. The essential portions of it are here reproduced: Having resided some years at Troy and Lansingburgh, N. Y., in that year of speculation, I836, I entered into a contract with Dr. T. C. Brinsmaid, Dr. F. B. Leonard, Mr. J. E. Whipple, and a Mr. Webster, of those places, to go west, and invest for them, on speculation, so much money as they would supply for I had none. The talk was, some sixty or eighty thousand dollars; but, from the change of times, it ended at about ten thousand. I was to operate in any of the western (not slave) States, buy and sell in my own name, and receive for my services one-fourth of the profits. So, in September of that year I left Troy, and came to Detroit. There I was offered city property, but, prices seeming high, I concluded that Government broad acres would be a surer thing than corner-lots. I made up my mind that the Grand River district was the promised land, or at least the most promising one for my operations. So I purchased a horse, and mounting him, I started out through mud which I found so deep that I was unable to trot him until I got to Ypsilanti. I reached Ann Arbor the first day, where I fell in with some New York State acquaintances, traveling the same way. The next day we arrived at Jacksonburg (as it was then called), and the next at Marshall. From there, going to Kalamazoo, I met for the first time Robert S. Parks. I then urged my friends to continue their journey with me north, but they declined, saying they were unwilling to risk their lives and health by going any further into the woods. The next day I mounted my pony and started, without any special fear and trembling, alone. When I left Troy, at the urgent request of my friends I purchased a pair of pistols, and put them in my trunk. I left them in my trunk at Detroit, not wishing the trouble of carrying them, though I had considerable gold in my saddlebags. Everybody then carried money, and traveled on highways and by-ways; stopped by dozens in the same log cabins, and slept in the same common garret; thrusting their saddlebags and packages loosely under their beds, and perhaps leaving them there lor clays, though heavy with specie —for then only specie bought Government lands. Still there were no rol)beries heard of. Nevertheless, it must be confessed, in bargaining, people did not always show themselves saints without guile. I came through Gull Prairie, where were a few settlers; and found no more until I arrived at Yankee Springs. There I stopped and enjoyed Lewis' rousing fire, and partook of his wife's good cheer. The next day I came to Mr. Leonard's, on the Thornapple, and observing some books drying in the sun, I was informed that the day before the stage wagon had spilled its baggage while crossing the river, and that the trunk containing these books was not at the time recovered; that it belonged to a Mr. Johnson, a lawyer, who was bound to Grand Rapids. This was Simeon Johnson, whom every old settler well remembers. I forded the river without wetting my boots. But then I did not go through that deep hole into which some sinners, for sport, one time led their fellow travelers. JOHN BALL'S NARRATIVE. 71 Being bound for Ionia, on arriving at the McNaughton place, on the Little Thornapple, I took what was called the Flat River trail, which led to the Grand River at what is now Lowell. Arriving there, I stopped with Mr. Marsac, an Indian Trader, brother of Mrs. Louis Campau. This was my arrival in the Grand River Valley, the i4th day of October, 1836. Marsac and the Robinsons, at the mouth of the Thornapple, were the only white people between Grand Rapids and Ionia. But soon after, Lewis Robinson settled at the mouth of Flat River, and Mr. Daniels and others in Vergennes. The next day I went up the trail on the north side of the river to Ionia, and put up with Mr. Yeomans, since known as "Judge," who was then living in his original cabin. There I again met Mr. Parks, and, as was no unusual thing then, occupied the same chamber with him and his wife. There were many visiting the land office there, so every house and place was full, and there were so many purchasers, that Mr. Hutchinson, the receiver, soon took in silver to the amount of his bail, and had to shut up the office, and cart the silver through the woods to Detroit. Having nothing else to do, a fellow boarder, Mr. Anderson, and myself, mounted our horses, and put out to look for pine lands down in Ottawa, and came the first day to Grand Rapids. This was my first visit. We put up at the Eagle Tavern, then the only one in the place, and kept by Wm. H. Godfroy. It was then November, the nights cold, the house not plastered, the house full-two in a bed. When the lights were out, I heard from all quarters bitter complaints about bed fellows, that they pulled the clothes off; not just understanding that, the coverings being narrow Indian blankets, if a man covered himself he uncovered his neighbor. I rather enjoyed the complaining. The next morning we rode to Grandville before breakfast. There being no tavern, we were directed to Mr. Charles Oakes for accommodations. They answered that they could feed our horses, but not us; but after urging our necessities, Mrs. Oakes gave us a cup of good coffee. We wanted something to carry into the woods, and were told that there was nothing to be had in the village; but that on our way a Mr. Ketchum was building a mill, and there we could get plenty. But on arriving there, where Jenison's planing mill now is, they informed us that all they had was some flour and beef. So we waited until they baked a loaf of bread, which we took, and some of the uncooked beef; put into the woods, and took our course to a point where we had some vague information there was pine timber. This brought us, at dark, into the south part of what is now the town of Blendon, and we camped on a branch of the Black River. During the night we heard the deer tramping about us in the leaves, attracted, probably, by the fire; and the wolves, as usual, howling in the distance. The next morning we explored for a time, but not finding what we were looking for, we turned to come out, for we had taken but one day's provisions. But after a time we found ourselves in the midst of a fine tract of pine timber, and immediately turned away to see its extent, and under the excitement kept on until dark. Then we lay down without supper, in order to have something for breakfast. On waking in the morning, we found our blankets covered with snow, and being still in the pines, we were unwilling to give it up until we had explored further. We finally struck toward the river, expecting to find some road leading out, but there was none. We met some Indians on the river, and offered them three dollars to bring us up to Grandville in their canoes. But they declined, and we tramped on, over bluffs and through swamps, till dark; kindled a fire with our last match, and lay down, hungry and weary. The next morning we got out to Grandville about 9 o'clock, and succeeded in getting something to eat, notwithstanding the scarcity. As yet nothing had been raised in Kent county or Ottawa, and nothing like a supply in Ionia; and all had to be brought by way of the Lakes from Buffalo or Cleveland. But we had not explored the lands minutely enough for purchasing. So, a short time after, my man, his son and myself, with a tent and better outfit, went in again, and spent two or three days. Giving them quite a bonus for their interest in the lands, I entered the whole tract, forty-one eighty-acre lots, in my own name-the same lands from which the Blendon Company, long afterward, lumbered. This company were the Messrs. Brinsmaid, Leonard and Whipple, mentioned before as furnishing the capital with which I operated. Finding the prospects of profit so small, I had before given them a deed of the lands, charging nothing for my services. Speculation No. i. I was little at Grand Rapids the first fall and winter I was in the State. But at one time, when there, I went up through the mud and among the stumps, to Bridge street, where Mr Coggeshall lived, and met a man at an office west of his house, and asked him the price of lots. He-it was Judge Almy -answered, that on Canal and Kent streets, they were $50 a front foot, or $2,500 a lot. I did not invest, and made no further inquiry about lots in Grand Rapids. In the winter, at Grandville, wishing to look for lands farther down the river, a Mr. White and some other Grand Haven men, invited me to go down the river on the ice with them. They had a cutter, and the ice being smooth, we all rode. Arriving at Grand Haven, I stopped at Luke White's, where I got acquainted with T. D. Gilbert, Rev. Mr. Ferry, Mr. Throop, Capt. White, and most of the then few inhabitants of the place. I then employed a halfbreed man, a brother of Mrs. Oakes, to go with me into the woods, though it was mid-winter and the snow knee-deep. We went south, to and up the creek that falls into Port Sheldon lake, and so about the woods for four or five days, and came out at the mouth of the Bass River. When night came on, we encamped in the lee of some fallen tree, scraped away the snow, collected hemlock boughs for a bed, built up a rousing fire, and made ourselves very comfortable. But it was by the skill of my companion, an old hunter, who knew well how to make a camp. But I found no land that I thought it an object to purchase, so came up to Grandville, and went out into what is now Byron, where Nathan Boynton, with his brothers, Perry and William, as boarders, were the only inhabitants. There I found some i,ooo acres of good farming land, which I bought. I passed part of the winter in Detroit, going and returning by different routes. One time I went directly south from Ionia, on a trail to Marshall, passing through Vermontville and Bellevue; stopped at the former place over night, finding there only three families. Gov. Mason, Mr. Schoolcraft, with 72 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. his half-breed wife, and many members of the Legislature, boarded at the American, where I had taken up my quarters. Judge Almy was the member from the Grand River' district. They legislated boldly that winter; passed the law for making the $5,000,000 loan; for the survey of three railroads and two canals across the State; and the general wild-cat banking law. I returned by what was called the "Northern Route;" found Pontiac a little village. They were building a mill at Fenton. Elisha Williams was the only man in Shiawassee county, and Scott in Clinton. So it was a day's journey from house to house. From Scott's there was a trail direct to Lyons, through the dense timber, 25 miles, and another road by Portland, where there were a few families. I well recollect finding very comfortable quarters in the tavern at Lyons, kept by Judge Lyon. One day, coming from Ionia, I was intending to stop at Edward Robinson's, but, from the snow drifted on the open Indian fields, lost my track, and turned back to a shanty where some men were building a block house, which was afterward the tavern at Ada. They kindly invited me to stop with them, saying they could put my horse in the shed and give me lodgings; and thus I should be the first traveler stopping at a public house in that place. One of these persons was Mr. Burnett. I traveled all winter on horseback. Although the sleighing was good, I did not trust its continuance. My business had led me to travel much up and down the Grand River country, and I had become more acquainted with the people elsewhere than at Grand Rapids. But in the spring of 1837, I sat down at Grand Rapids to make it my permanent home. I boarded at the Eagle, then kept by our late Mr. Moran. The three brothers Nelson were boarders, and had a store opposite. Being a little suspicious of Indian sugar, they used to bring sugar from the store for their tea and coffee. Charles H. Taylor had his shop over their store, and A. Hosford Smith had a store further down the street. Waterloo was then rather the business street. There were two warehouses on the river below, and two at the foot of Monroe street. Uncle Louis Campau's mansion became a part of the Rathbun House. Richard Godfroy had a like house where the Catholic church was afterward built, and Myron Hinsdill lived where is now the Morton House. There was also a building on the north side of Monroe street, in which Drs. Wilson and Shepard had their office, and Esquire Beebe (I think) his justice office. Dea. Page, with his three beautiful daughters, Mrs. Richmond one of them, and Judge Almy, lived where Butterworth & Lowe's machine shop now is; and A. D. Rathbone had a shanty office near Bronson street. Though there were but few houses, there were a good many people. There were the brothers Lyman, and Edward Emerson, and then, or soon after, one Fuller. I cannot say precisely who were in Grand Rapids, as they were coming in fast, and all full of hope for a continuance of good money-making times that would make all rich. The citizens were friendly and social; a stranger was kindly welcomed, and all soon became acquainted. Mr. Thompson was the first keeper of the Bridge Street House, and then Gen. Withey. Wm. A. Richmond was clerk of the Kent Company. Mr. Calder had a store near Mr. Coggeshall's; Ed. Emerson one on Canal street; and many French people had followed Uncle Louis-the Godfroys, Mr. Marion, and many mechanics, who, after the change of times, went to St. Louis and other parts. The settlers out of the village were Judge Davis, and the Reeds out by the lake; Alvin Wansey, the Messrs. Guild and Burton, by the Fair Grounds; Esquires Chubb and Howlett, toward Grandville; and then, over the river, E. H. Turner, Capt. Sibley, the Messrs. Davis, and afterward, James Scribner. Others had gone upon the lately purchased Indian lands, and soon many more came in, and went upon the unsurveyed lands north of the Grand River. There was no grist mill this side of one near Gull Prairie, nor was there need of any; for the little grain raised, whether wheat or oats, was bought up for horse feed, at $2 per bushel. There was a saw mill about where Sweet's Hotel now stands, one where the plaster mill stands, at Plaster Creek, and the Indian Mill, on Indian Mill Creek. They did put into the last named mill a run of granite stones to crack corn, and the like. At a later day, coming in JOHN BALL'S HOUSE, BUILT IN 1838. possession of that property after the mill had disappeared, I removed these stones to the front of my house, where they are an historical horse-block. The Indians still lived on the west side of the river, and planted large fields of corn. They had a little church and a priest-the simple-hearted and good Viszoczky. Horace Gray and his brother Lyman were also here; and that spring Horace and I went down the river to Grand Haven in a kind of keel-boat, sailed by Capt. Sibley, and propelled by the current. We walked down the lake shore to Muskegon, where were then living only Mr. Lasley and Mr. Trottier (called Trucky), Indian traders. Martin Ryerson was then clerk of Trottier, at $8 per month. On our return up the river, we came as far as Yeomans' (Lamont) in a little "dug-out" canoe, as big as a clam-shell. Stopping over night, we concluded it would be easier to foot it up through the woods than to paddle the canoe around by the river. That spring there was great activity in business here and all over the country, and an expectation of a continuance of the good times. But, as unexpected as a thunder-storm, a change came over the JOHN BALL'S NARRATIVE-WILDCAT BANKING. 73 country. The New York Legislature passed a law authorizing the banks to suspend specie payment; and Gov. Mason convened ours for the same purpose. At that extra session they not only authorized the banks then in operation to suspend, but also such banks as should go into operation under the general banking law lately passed; which resulted in the killing of forty wild-cat banks. When I left Detroit in April, all was hope and expectation of as good a season for speculation as the preceding one; but when there again in June, all the plats of choice lands and villages were removed from the walls of the hotels and public places, and all faces had so changed that one could hardly recognize his acquaintances; and it was taken as an insult for one to speak of land operations. But we were so deep in the woods that we did not seem to realize, for some time, the great change that had come over the rest of the world. Among the Grand Rapids enterprises, a steamboat had been bought at Toledo to run on the Grand River. On the way it was wrecked on Thunder Bay Island, of Lake Huron. But the engine was saved and brought around, and Richard Godfroy built a boat, which made its first trip to Grandville on the 4th of July. We had quite a celebration; an oration on the boat, and great rejoicing generally on that account. Though I met no one in the Grand River Valley who had ever seen me before I came into the State, still, strangely, they nominated and elected me to the Legislature, to represent the Grand River district, consisting of Ottawa, Kent, Ionia and Clinton counties. Capt. Stoddard (captain of the steamboat), a brother-in-law of Mr. Bostwick, was the Whig candidate; a worthy man, who lived afterward at Charlotte. There were then two taverns-the Bridge Street and the Eagle. The convention was held at the Bridge Street House, and I was boarding at the Eagle. In the evening who should arrive but the Hon. C. C. Trowlridge, the Whig candidate for Governor-out canvassing? He was acquainted with the landlady, Mrs. Moran, and she introduced me to him. He inquired of me for his friends-Henry, Bostwick and Stoddard. I showed him where they lived. The gentlemen being out, I introduced him to the ladies. The next morning, on meeting Mr. Trowbridge, he expressed, as well he might, his surprise at seeing in the backwoods such a circle of accomplished ladies; and, also, that a political opponent should have been so civil to him. There were but five places of holding the polls -there being but five organized townships in the four counties-in Kent county, Byron and Kent; in Ionia county, Ionia and Maple, and in Clinton county, DeWitt. The election was held at the Bridge Street Hotel All the voters of Ottawa county came up on the steamboat, and, in a line, marched to the polls. I was elected by a large majority, and in January, I838, went to Detroit on horseback. The going was very bad, for there had been heavy rains and snow. The great questions before the Legislature that winter, were the location of the railroads, and the amount to be expended on each road. For the improvement of the Grand and Maple Rivers, $30, 000 was appropriated, which was applied to improving the harbor at Grand Rapids, clearing out the river channel at the foot of Monroe street, and removing the sunken logs all the way up the river to Lyons. Several towns were organized: In Ottawa county, Ottawa, Georgetown and Tallmadge; in Kent county, Grand Rapids, Paris, Walker, Plainfield, Ada and Vergennes. Some titles were given in the military line: Gen. Withey and Col. Finney. Rix Robinson was made one of the five Internal Improvement Commissioners. There was a law passed authorizing Kent county to borrow money to build a court house; Esq. Abel and Judge Davis were the Supervisors of the county, and Esq. Abel came in to borrow money from the school fund to build the said court house. In his hurry, he got the money, much of it, in bills of the failing wild-cat banks; and I fear the county has some of it still on hand. I must say a word about banking at Grand Rapids. There was the Grand River Bank, of which Almy was President and Richmond Cashier. It was in the office of the Kent Company, on Bridge street. Mr. Coggeshall and some others became dissatisfied, and undertook to establish another bank, to be located in the Campau plat part of the village. They got a room over Smith & Evans' store, about where the west part of Luce's Block now is; and, after much urging, Louis Campau consented to be President and Simeon Johnson to be Cashier. They named it the "' People's Bank;" got plates engraved, and some bills struck off, and even put in circulation. The capital stock was $ioo,ooo. So, under the law, it required $30,000 in specie to start on. Being all ready, as they claimed, they sent for the Bank Commissioner, Digby V. Bell, to come, make examination, and put the bank in legal operation. But instead of finding the required amount of specie, he found but $6,ooo; and they proposed to make up the rest by a draft of Mr. Coggeshall, of $20,000, on a broker in New York, and one of Mr. Ketchum, on Chicago, for the balance. Mr. Bell did not see the propriety of the arrangement, and said it would not do; so what next was to be done? They not only had bills out, but they.had received deposits; and the specie shown, I suppose, was deposited to be drawn out as soon as the bank was in operation, They were very anxious to go on in some way, and so far satisfied the Commissioner that they could, that he agreed to give them a month for the purpose. But then it was to be on the condition that the means on hand should go into the hands of a receiver, for the security of the bill-holders and depositors. When it was talked over who that man should be, they could agree on no one but myself. I did not at all like any connection with the matter, but, after much urging, consented to it. It was to be kept as it was for the month, except to pay out to such cash depositors as should claim their money, and to redeem their bills then in circulation. Without any formality Mr. Bell handed me the keys of the safes, and said there was about such an amount of specie in this safe; and bills, and what he had passed upon as specie equivalent, in the other. The next morning, on opening the safe containing the paper deposits, I found missing some $2,000. I felt it rather an awkward predicament. But soon Mr. Campau came in, and said there were two keys to that safe, and he thought Mr. Cook had the other one. More of the money was soon drawn out by depositors and bill-holders; and when the month came round they were no better prepared to go into operation than before, and I had to keep charge 74 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. still longer. But, wishing to go East, Mr. Bostwick took charge of what there was left, and I went back to Troy, having been absent two years, instead of a few months, as I expected when I left there. After visiting for a time, I picked up my law library, rather scattered through the offices of the city, and returned to Grand Rapids, to the surprise of some; for it had been reported that I was not going to come back, otherwise they said I should have been again nominated for the Legislature. As it was, they had just put in nomination N. H. Finney. I was afterward, in I840, put in nomination for the Senate, to be beaten by H. P. Bridge, the opposing candidate. When I first came to Grand Rapids, Louis Campau was said to be worth $ioo,ooo; but when the change of times came, he made an assignment of all his property for the benefit of his creditors, except the Old Congregational Church, which he deeded to his mother. He had built that church for the Catholics, and they held meetings in it for some time. After a time she sold it to the Congregational Society, reserving, however, the iron cross. I drew the deed from Mrs. Campau. Mr. Ballard was present, and urged not to have the cross excepted in the deed, saying that he could worship under the cross. But she would not consent. When they wanted to take it down, men were sent up to remove it. They built a staging, and tried to lift it out of the timber in which it stood. When they found they could not, they sawed it off. Owing to a defect in their arrangements, it fell to the ground, and in falling, carried with it one of the men, a Mr. Post, who, of course, was instantly killed*. At the time I was standing on the steps of the National Hotel, with D. V. Bell, who remarked of the man being killed: 'It has only knocked the shell off." This was by no means said in a thoughtless manner, but to express his religious views, that the body was not the real man. Mr. Campau had erected a number of other buildings, among them the Eagle Tavern, the yellow store, and a dwelling for his brother Toussaint, on he corner where Luce's Block now stands. He had started Toussaint in business, and becoming surety for his goods, probably occasioned the necessity of his making an assignment. Still he had considerable left after all his debts were paid. His brother Antoine, C. I. Walker and Judge Martin were his assignees. Times became very dull in our valley, and there was very little increase in the population. In Grand Rapids there was a decrease. Emigration all went past us to Illinois and Wisconsin. There was no money, and our merchants, who tried to do business, had to trust the farmers on the strength of their growing crops. But the wheat, when raised, brought but three shillings a bushel, so there was a general failure of all business. We had enough to eat, but little to wear; and if we could get money enough to pay postage, it was all we expected. All that was done, was by exchange. Judge Morrison says that in building a pretty good house he paid out but one dollar. All that was done, was by exchange or "dicker." Times were decidedly dull; and to fill up the time, we used, in the evenings, to attend the Debating Society, of which C. I. Walker, Mr. Bal*'l his was June 24, 1846. lard and Charles H. Taylor were the greatest talkers. And then we used to get up hops at the "Bridge Street" and " National;" had John Ellis for musician. Ellis afterward " hung up his fiddle and his bow," and long flourished as a successful mill-owner in Alpine. Some settlers had gone on the Government lands north of the river, before they were surveyed. In some cases the lines cut their improvements badly, and then there was some clashing among the claimants. But it was agreed that a committee of each township should settle these claims. When the public sale of these lands came on, in August, I839, the great question was, how to raise money to pay for their lands, for they had expected to have made it by their farming. Though told there was no danger, they were so fearful that speculators would bid off their lands, that they went to Ionia with clubs to fight them off. But the speculators did not come, as they had had enough of land speculation in 1836. Still, some of these squatters borrowed money at ioo per cent., of Mr. Richmond -acting for Gov. Hunt, of New York-and paid for the lots, giving a mortgage on the same. It was a long time before some of these mortgages were paid; and those who let it pass, and did not buy, did much better, as you will see further on. But were not those hard times with us? Congress, in the session of I84r, granted to each of the new States in which there were Government lands, 500,000 acres for internal improvements. The next winter our Legislature passed an act, accepting that grant, and authorizing the Governor, Mr. Barry, to make the selection, as Congress had authorized. Knowing that I was a woodsman, he wrote to me, asking me if I would select those lands. Not having much business on hand, I answered that I would, but wished his instructions, or at least, opinion, as to what class of lands it would be best to takewhether pine or farming. Much to my dissatisfaction, he said he should leave it entirely to my judgment. Still, I accepted the appointment, and prepared for the business. I went to the Land Office at Ionia to procure the necessary plats. Judge Lovell, who was then the Register, politely gave me every facility. Frederick Hall wishing to go out as an assistant, I employed him at twelve shillings a day; and I also took James D. Lyon, then a youth, as cook and camp-keeper. I was then boarding with Judge Lyon, who kept the Bridge Street House, and I had been acting as agent for Junius H. Hatch, after Mr. Walker left. But Mr. Yale had come on with full power of attorney from Mr. Hatch, so I passed that business to him, purchased an Indian pony, tents, blankets, etc., and on the 2oth of March put into the woods-the ground being as fully settled as in mid-summer. Our first trip was up by the Wright settlement, and the west part of Alpine, where we found Coffee and Gooding, they being the last settlers, three miles beyond any others. We encamped the first night on a creek near the north line of Wright. The next day, leaving Lyon to cook supper and see that the pony did not stray, Hall and myself ranged the woods far around to see the character of the land, keeping our reckoning by the surveyed lines and surveyor's marks, returning weary at night, ready for supper, and to wrap ourselves in our blankets. This was repeated from day to day, moving our camp as occasion required. In that trip we explored all that JOHN BALL'S NARRATIVE-LAND SALES. splendid timbered country, in the east part of Ottawa county, down to the Grand River, along which were the only settlers. After some ten or twelve days we came in to get a fresh supply of provisions, and then went out again. I had heard of prairie lands up on the Muskegon, so to see them I went out by the east part of Alpine, and there found Mr. Hills, three miles in the woods, making shingles; and his accomplished wife got us a dinner. Hills soon after died. His sons were then young, and probably did not expect all the good fortune that they have since realized. We encamped by Camp Lake, and the next day reached Croton. There we found a saw mill, owned by Hermann Joachim, who had purchased of Mr. Brooks, then at Newaygo. To my disappointment, the prairies proved to be but thin-soiled pine plains. So we quit exploring in that direction, and struck through for the Flat River, coming out about at Greenville. There I found the country much more satisfactoryrich burr-oak plains and good pine timber. I there found Luther Lincoln, who, with his son, a boy of thirteen, were living a hermit life-the only inhabitants of Montcalm county. Still he seemed glad of company, and explored with us while in those parts. There were in Otisco, Ionia county, Mr. Cook, Mr. Morse, and a few others; in Oakfield, Mr. Tower and sons, Mr. I)avis and Mr. Crinnion; in Courtland, Mr. Beers and four or five other families; four families in Cannon; one in Grattan; but few at Plainfield, and none on the road from there to Grand Rapids. There was a good deal of feeling and some alarm among our people about the selection of so large a quantity of land in one county, under the belief that they would be kept out of the market by the State, or held at a high price. So, out of regard to those feelings, I made a trip down the lake shore. We went out on the trail to Muskegon, where there was then one saw mill; crossed over the head of the lake by boat, swimming my pony; then by a trail to White River. At the head of White Lake we found Charles Mears, the only settler north of Muskegon. He had a little mill on a small creek, and a small sloop to ship his lumber to Chicago. His men, with their boat, set us across the lake. It made the pony blow to keep his head above the water; but he weathered it, and we struck for the Clay 13anks, and so kept along, finding a stray boat to cross the I'entwater, and went as far as Pere Marquette. We then returned, exploring some, back through the country; came to the outlet of the White Lake; forded it on the bar, and came to the mouth of the Muskegon, expecting means of crossing, so as to come to Grand Rapids. But there was no one there, and we had to go back round the north side, and encamp. The next day some Indians carried us over to Muskegon, and we returned on the trail in a rain, making rather uncomfortable camping. We made up our minds that our trip down the lake shore was one that invited no repetition for the pleasure of the thing. I was instructed to make report of such lands as I had selected to the Land Office, and also to the Government. But thus far I had been looking generally, and had not reported any. On much reflection, I made up my mind that, as the State was deeply in debt for building railroads, and the State warrants, as the State obligations were called, were in the hands of many people all over the State, and the State had no means of meeting this indebtedness but these lands, the Legislature would be pressed on the subject, and would pass a law putting the lands into the market at such a price that they would sell, and be purchased by the settler. I therefore determined to make the selections from the nearest unsold lands up and down the Grand River. I afterward made my explorations with that view, and soon made report of selections. I continued my explorations until the 4th of July, and then again went out in the fall. I was in the woods in Bowne, when that fall of snow of more than two feet came on the i8th day of November. The old settlers will well recollect that winter, I842-3, which lasted until some time in April-five months. As I was about the country that fall, I noticed a great number of hogs, and on asking the owners what they were going to do with them, they said, "let them run." They had lived through the previous winter on acorns, and if killed now the pork would not pay for the salt. Quite three-fourths of them were salted in the snow, and also some of the cattle. Hall and Lyon had quit me some time in the spring, and I then employed a Dutchman by the name of Michael Thome as camp-keeper, and carried on the business without further help. He has a fine farm in Alpine, bought with his wages. I selected some lands, also, on the south side of the river, in Gaines and Byron, and some in Ottawa, in Jamestown, and Statesland, thus named from this fact. The quantity selected and reported was nearly 400,oo00 acres; the balance being selected by other parties in other parts of the State. Mine were mostly farming lands, but some pine. As I anticipated, the State Legislature did, at the next session, pass a law for the sale of those lands, at the nominal Government price of $1.25 per acre, payable in State dues; warrants could then be purchased at 40 cents on the dollar, bringing the lands at 50 cents per acre. After the passage of this law, the settlers who had not paid for their lands-and there were many of them who had not-wished me to report their lands as selected, and I did so. The State Land Office was then at Marshall, and when the sale came on in July, 1843, they sent out by me to bid in their lands-having, most of them, by some means, got the small sum required-and all got their places without opposition, for, though sold so cheap, none were purchased on speculation. After the lands had all been offered at auction, I made entry of a few lots, and paid for them with the warrants I had received for my services in selecting. I charged $3 per day, and got what was worth 40 cents on the dollar; but in paying for the land it was worth dollar for dollar. Though but few purchases were made at the first sale, some from the east part of the State, having knowledge of the opportunity, soon made purchases. After a time, emigrants bound for the West, came to look, saying to me (for they all came to me for information), "We don't expect to like Michigan lands, but as they are selected lands, and can be got so cheaply, we thought we would come and see you." But, to their surprise, they were well suited, and all purchased. On their report, a dozen would follow, so that in a few years the great majority of those lands were settled. I not only furnished them with plats, and directed them to the lands, but purchased warrants, sent them to the office, and made the purchases. If the funds were a little short, I gave them 76 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. time to make up the deficiency, and if much was lacking, I would take the land.in my own name, as security, giving them a receipt for what they paid. I managed to keep emery man who came, in some way; and never had occasion to complain that they did not, on their part, fulfill their engagements. I have been thus particular about those Internal Improvement Lands, to remind you to how great an extent it advanced the settlement of our valley. When, a few years afterward, the Hollanders came in, and took the balance of those lands down near their settlement, and they and the other settlers came to Grand Rapids for their supplies, business revived, and we moved on again. None of these first purchasers had much means -just enough to pay for their lands, and subsist until they could raise something. For a time they got on slowly. What they raised would bring but little. But they made improvements; their calves grew; so that when prices improved, they found themselves better off than they were aware; built barns and good framed houses, in place of their little first log' cabins. It does me good to go over those then forest lands. along well-made roads, lined with fine white houses, rich orchards, and fruitful fields. Nine out of ten of those have succeeded-showing that cheap lands and industry are the surest road to competence, especially for young men and those of limited means. I do not at once recognize them all, but they do me, and refer, with seeming gratitude, to their first coming to the country, and my aiding them in getting their farms. This, to me, is better pay than the little fees they gave me for those services. GRAND RIVER VALLEY IN 1837. There was a rush of settlers into the Grand River Valley in I836, and thereabout; and a furor for locating lands as a speculative investment; a mania for platting cities and selling lots. This was followed, of course, by a reaction. From 1833 to i837 may be called the years of occupation. The furor passed, and the sober realities of backwoods life had brought people somewhat to their senses. In order to give a more general and graphic view of this Valley in I837, Professor Franklin Everett procured from the Hon. John Ball another paper relating to that period, for his "Memoirs of the Grand River Valley." Like that which has just been given, the article is one that will be perused with ever increasing interest as time goes on. It is of historic value on account of its graphic simplicity, and from the further fact that it is from the pen of one who knew whereof he wrote, from personal observation; a man of proverbial honesty, and whose tenacious memory was fortified by his methodical habit of preserving a record in copious notes of what he saw and learned. It is here copied, only slightly abridged, from Everett's book. Though containing some repetitions of matters that appear elsewhere, it could not be much condensed without marring: In I837 the Grand River settlement was far detached from the rest of the world. To reach it from any direction had its difficulties, and required much time. If approached by what was called the northern route, through Shiawassee and Clinton counties, it was a day's journey from house to house to Ionia. The only other approach with a team and wagon was by the 'Territorial Road," as it was called, through Calhoun and Kalamazoo, then by a day's journey from Battle Creek to Kalamazoo, to Yankee Springs, and another to Grand Rapids, or other parts. This was the usual route to Kent and Ottawa counties; keeping over the "openings" east of the Thornapple River to Ada. There was a bridle path or trail through the timbered lands direct out through Gaines to Green Lake and Yankee Springs; and another through Byron to Allegan; and there was communication by keel-boats and "dug-outs" tip and down the river. By these routes all supplies of goods, and even most of the breadstuff~ for Kent and Ottawa counties were brought. In Ionia county, being longer settled, they raised their own bread. The traveler on horseback, by the usual route in those days, would stop at night at Williams'; and later in the year at DeLang's: the next night at Scott's; and by the next night, riding through a dense forest twenty-five miles, he would reach Lyons, perhaps Ionia. Or, by another route, through a more open country, he could go to Portland, and down along the Grand River to Lyons. There were then at Portland, Mr. Boyer and three or four others. At Lyons was a tavern, kept by the late Judge Lyon. His brother Edward, since in Detroit, was living in a fine little cottage on a bluff of the river. There were perhaps some dozen other villagers, and a few farmers. Mr. Eaton and Mr. Irish, whose wives were of the Lyon family, had farms upon the Portland road. Three miles above Ionia was a saw mill on Prairie Creek; and on a little stream from the hill, a grist mill. At Ionia were a tavern, a store, mechanic shops, and a few dwellings, all unpretending and limited in build and business. But hereabouts, in the country and in the woods, were a number of farmers-Esquire Yeomans, a little below the village, in his log house, and all the rest in theirs. If night overtook the weary traveler too far away to reach the usual place of stopping, he was always kindly welcomed to lodgings and fare, the best the cabin afforded; and would find as marked proof of good order, skill in cooking and neatness, as he would find in the sumptuous mansion. And also in the cabin the traveler would usually find a shelf filled with instructive books; and from conversation with the inmates he would discover that they had been read. The people of the Valley were so few that the person who traveled much soon became acquainted with most of the dwellers therein, and the sparseness of settlers led to greater cordiality when they met. Their common wants, sometimes for almost the needs of life, led to kindly thought of each other, and kindly, neighborly acts. And then they had the example of the Indians, then residing all along the Valley, who are always hospitable, and who not GRAND RIVER VALLEY IN 1837. unfrequently aided the first settlers, by furnishing the means of subsistence from their cornfields and the chase. The Indian is too good a farmer to till a poor soil. Their cornfields were on the rich bottom land of the rivers. They had one at Lyons, in the forks of the Maple and Grand rivers. Ionia was located on an old Indian improvement. An extensive field was at the mouth of the Flat River, on the right bank, and then again at the mouth of the Thornapple. As the Indian mode of tillage was the laborious one of breaking up the ground with the hoe, the settlers, in preference to taking the unsubdued land, plowed the Indian fields for the privilege of cultivating a part; and, side by side, the Indian corn generally looked the bes't, for the squaws were very good with the hoe. Rix Robinson, the first Indian Trader on the Grand River, resided at Ada, and his brother Edward one mile below, in his log house, from necessity larger than usual, to accommodate his large family of 15-his "baker's dozen," as he used to say. Still, they often had to entertain the traveler bound to Grand Rapids. The bedroom of the weary traveler was the roof or garret part of the house, with good beds, eight or ten, arranged under the eaves, access to which was under the ridge-pole; it being high enough there for a man to stand upright. There were always two in a bed, and the beds were taken as the parties retired; say, a man and his wife first, then two boys or girls, and so on. This is mentioned as the usual manner at stopping places. At first it would seem a little embarrassing to women and modest men. But use soon overcomes that feeling; and always in those times all seemed disposed to behave civilly, and to act the part of true gentlemen; occasion their kind entertainers the least possible trouble, and still reward them liberally for their fare, as was right they should, as their food had come all the way from Buffalo or Cleveland. Uncle Louis Campau, as he was usually called, was the next trader on the river, unless Mr. Generaux, at the Maple, was before him. Campau sat down at Grand Rapids, and built his log dwelling and warehouse about half way between Pearl and Bridge streets, on the bank of the river, the trail to which was where now is Monroe street. In the year i837, the Grand River settlements were far detached from the rest of the world. The approach from any direction required much time, and was attended with some difficulty. If by what was called the northern route, through Shiawassee and Clinton counties, there was but one stopping place in each-Lang's and Scott's. Then there were some twenty-five miles of dense woods to reach Lyons, and about the same to Portland. These were the usual routes in, for the Ionia people. For Kent county and the region below, the approach was made usually by the so-called Thornapple road. This came from Battle Creek to Yankee Springs, in Barry county; then east of the Thornapple River, through the openings to Ada, where it joined the road from Ionia to Grand Rapids and Grandville. The travel below Grand Rapids was, in summer, by keel-boats or canoes, and in winter, on the ice. There was a trail, or bridle-path, to Grand Haven, and down the lake beach to Muskegon, and also to Allegan. Sometimes there was a winter road more direct, out, going through the heavy timbered land in Gaines to Green Lake, Middleville and Yankee Springs. There were other Indian trails in many directions. Most traveling was on horseback, requiring five days from Detroit to reach Grand Rapids. From Ionia, the traveler crossed the Grand River at Ada in a canoe, into which he put his saddle, towing his horse behind the boat. Coming from the south, when the water was high, the crossing of the Thornapple was in the same fashion. Soon scows were put on the river, on which teams and loads could cross. No roads as yet were made, nor bridges built, so the traveling by wagon was rough and slow. As to settlement, beginning at Portland, there were Mr. Moore, Mr. Boyer, and some half dozen other families. At Lyons, ten miles down the river, a few more than at Portland. At Ionia, the village was small, but there were quite a number of farmers around. They made their first planting ground of the old Indian improvement, where the city of Ionia now is. Esquire Yeonrans had his farm below the village, and some had settled on the other side of the river. At Lowell, on the left bank of the river, was Mr. Marsac, and on the right bank, on an extended plain, an old Indian planting ground, was Lewis Robinson. At Ada, were Rix and Edward Robinson. There was already quite a population at Grand Rapids. Many settlers followed Mr. Campau from Detroit, and others came from all parts East. The Messrs. Hinsdill, Henry and others from Vermont; James Lyman and his brother, from Connecticut, and many, more than from all other States, from New York. Perhaps at this time there were 500 in all-more at times than could be well accommodated for room. It seemed to be an attractive spot, where every comer seemed to think it was the place for him to make a fortune. This was the case in the first part of the year, but before the year was through, that feeling had much abated, for it was in this year that the speculation bubble burst. At this time, though Canal and Kent streets were nearly impassable by reason of stumps, and mud from the water oozing from the hills above lots were selling for $50 per foot. There was a passable road from Fulton street to Coldbrook under the bluff on the east. Canal street was, in wet weather, little better than a quagmire. There were as yet but few farmers in Kent county. Out on South I)ivisipn street, beyond the Fair Grounds, was Alvin Wansey. Over beyond, were Joel Guild and Barney Burton. Southwest of Reeds Lake were Judge Davis and two Reeds. Going down the Grandville road, all was woods. At Plaster Creek was a small saw mill. Plaster could be seen in the bed of the stream near it..As one went on, to the right, and off from the road, near a marsh, were the salt springs, with paths deep worn by the deer coming.to lick the salt water; and just below, near the river, were observed the Indian mounds, near where the railroad now crosses the river. On the left of the road, farther on, was Esquire Chubb's log cabin, and over the creek beyond were Mr. Howlett and Mr. Thompson. The first house in Grandville was that of Julius C. Abel; the next that of Major Britton. Osgood & Blake kept a tavern-Osgood was a lawyer. Charles Oakes was there, and a number of others; and they claimed that, as the navigation of the river was so 78 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. much better up to that point than it was above, Grandville would compete with Grand Rapids. Then some half dozen settlers had begun in the woods south of Grandville. On Buck Creek, Haynes Gordon and Wright had saw mills Near the mouth of Rush Creek, the Michigan Lumbering Company had a saw mill, and a Mr. Ketchum, of Marshall, one a little above. A little beyond, in Ottawa county, were Hiram Jenison and brothers. Beyond these few settlers all was deep forest, to the lake, and to the then new little village of Allegan. Going down the river, three miles.from Grandville, was a Mrs. Burton. The next house, on the other side, was that of a Mr. Yeomans, where is now Lamont, squatted on the newly purchased lands. Then, on the south side, below Bass River, were Rodney and Lucas Robinson. No more in Ottawa, until Grand Haven. There were Mr. Ferry, who, with Rix Robinson, owned the village plat. The three brothers White, Mr. Throop, and a few others, were residents. This place, being the grand harbor of the Grand River, soon to become a big city, its lots, corners and all, were held at high prices The lands north of the Grand River, in Kent and Ottawa counties, had only been purchased from the Indians the preceding year; were not in the market, and were not even yet surveyed. Still, settlers began this year to go on them, and to make preemptions, as they called it. They erected log cabins in which to live, as all the farmers in the valley did; and many of the houses in the villages were of the same construction. Still, then, as ever, these pioneers were hopeful, and seemed quite happy. All the impression the white man had made on the country was but a cipher. The largest clearings had but a few acres. The old Indian clearings were of greater extent than the white man's. The Indians had quite a tract cleared at the junction of the Maple and Grand Rivers, at Ionia, Flat River and Thornapple. At Grand Rapids their clearings extended along the river from Mill Creek down to a short distance above the Plaster Mills, but not extending far back from the river. At Grandville was the Little Prairie. The Government built for the Indians a mill on the creek, near where it is crossed by the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad. The Indians had a village of twenty or thirty houses built of the lumber sawed by this mill. In i837 all the ground spoken of above as then a cultivated field was planted with corn, which the women well hoed. The men fished and hunted. They lived all up and down the river, and through the country, as ever before; and every fall assembled at Grand Rapids to receive pay for their lands. All beyond these Indian and white men's clearings was an interminable forest, the same as before the civilized man had entered upon the lands. In this valley they lived in peace, and mostly there were in those times confidence and kindness between the different races. But there were some wrongs, more often committed by the whites than the Indians All was a grand and noble forest, with its tall pine, its sugar tree and beech, and the sturdy oak scattered over what are called the "openings." These opening lands extended along generally on both sides of the river to a greater or less distance back, through Kent and Ionia counties, up the Flat River to Greenville, and along the east side of the Thornapple. From Grand Rapids to Plainfield, and about that village, tLiere was comparatively little timber, so that the traveler on the old trail could see quite a distance about him. This scarcity of timber was also observable in parts of Grattan, Oakfield and Montcalm. But all of Ottawa, the south part of Kent, to the Thornapple, and the north part, commencing even in Walker, and the south part of Ionia county, were heavily timbered with beech; maple, elm, oak and other hard wood trees, with patches of pine. Toward and along the lake in Ottawa county, the timber was pine and hemlock. In these forests the traveler could often see the fleet deer crossing his track, sometimes pursued by the wolf. On the west side of the river, near where the Bridge street bridge is, were two block houses, where a Baptist Missionary preacher or teacher, by the name of Slater, taught some of the Indians. But Father Viszoczky (the Catholic) had more converts, and a little meeting house at their village below, which was the only meeting house on either side. In this, that worthy priest would hold forth to the Indians, the French and English-speaking people, to each in their own language. Of course, there were no bridges over the river, but there was a fording place between Islands No. 2 and 3, or below the G. R. & I. railroad bridge; and when the water was too high for fording, a ferry boat was used. And now the effect of the break-down of the wild speculation of I836, and the high hope of the first half of this year, began to be seen. Faces began to indicate thought and care. Business flagged, and Mr. Campau's laborers and mechanics, lacking occupation, began to seek labor elsewhere. No sale for corner-lots, and money, to pay for bread to eat, grew scarce. In Kent county, not half enough grain, of all kinds, was raised to feed the horses, and all else had to come from Ohio or New York-for to the west of us, they had raised as little as we. As another trouble, our wild-cat money would not buy things beyond our own limits. Monroe street follows the trail to Campau's Indian trading post, on the bank of the river. It kept along close to the impassable swamp, extending north from the corner of Monroe and Division streets, then wound along at the foot of an abrupt hill from Ottawa to i'earl street. This same hill connected with the (now disappearing) hill between Pearl and Lyon streets. Beyond these hills the trail descended to Bronson street. South of Monroe street, the descent was steep, and the ground was so low as to be deeply covered at high water. The boat channel of the river was between the island and the main land, and the landing was where the blocks of stores now are on the south side of Monroe street, at the foot of Canal street. West of the foot of Canal street, north of Pearl street, was Mr. Wadsworth's saw mill. TEN YEARS AFTERWARD. Another view-of the village and valley in I846-well supplements the two papers just given. Franklin Everett came here in I846 as the Principal of the Grand Rapids Academy. Observing what lie saw, and making note thereof, about twenty years later he wrote out for publication a descriptive pic TEN YEARS AFTERWARD-THE VILLAGE IN 1846. 79 ture of the place as he saw it when he came, and after another ten years reproduced it "revised and amended by the author," in his "Memorials." Condensed, or, as printers sometimes say, "boiled down," the more essential parts of the sketch are here given: We will now look at Grand Rapids as it appeared in I846; then, as now, the chief town in the Grand River Valley. It was emphatically "a story and a-half village," with a population of 1,500, mostly on about fifty acres of land. Taking the region enclosed by Fulton street on the south, Division street on the east, Bridge street on the north, and the river on the west, we have all that had the appearance of a village. A few scattering houses were outside, on Bostwick's Addition, and on the west side of the river. Several very good residences were on Fulton street, east of the limits given; and far out of town Mr. Bostwick had his cosy home, fitted up with admirable surroundings, at what always should be called the "Bostwick Place." The extreme house at the northeast was at the corner south of the Central School House. The buildings, with very few exceptions, were of wood; the residences and a good part of the business places, a story and a-half high. The buildings, whether for residences or business, were simple structures, for use and not display. The exceptional buildings were five stone stores and two brick ones on Monroe street, two stone blocks or double stores lup Canal street, near Bronson; two stone stores at the foot of Monroe street, where now is "Campau Place." To these we may add the wing of the Rathbun House, the residence of Mr. Turner on the west side of the river; and the Almy House, on Bronson street. There were, besides, seven small brick or stone houses. The churches were the Congregational, the Methodist, the Episcopal, and the Dutch Reformed. The Congregational was the only one that had the air of a church. It stood at the head of Monroe street, between that and Fulton street. It was a pretty, modest structure, in good architectural proportions. The Episcopal church stood at the corner of Division and Bronson streets. It was a mere temporary concern, until the society could afford to build. It afterward did service for the Baptists in the same way. The Methodist church was a better building, but still of modest size. It stood where their present building stands. The Dutch Reformed church was an unfinished stone building, afterward sold for business purposes. The Catholics had no church edifice. They had a house which was fitted up for a chapel at the corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets. In i849 they built a stone church on the adjoining lot. The Baptists had an organization, but no place of worship. They held their meetings in the temporary court house on the common. The streets were none of them graded, and there were sidewalks only on Division, Monroe and Canal streets; those, with the exception of a part of Monroe street, simply a track the width of two planks. On Monroe street each had placed something for a sidewalk before his premises. The business places were mostly on Monroe street and the south end of Canal street. Monroe street was generally occupied from Ottawa street down. Business centered at what is now Campau Place. The store furthest up Monroe street was where Luce's block now stands. Turning into Canal street, on the east side were one story wooden buildings, about half way to Bronson street. Up Canal street, at the foot of Bronson street, was on each side a double store. A wing-dam, running half way across the river, served to divert some of the water into a canal of small capacity. The dam was built across the river soon after, and the canal enlarged. On this Canal were three saw-mills, two large grist-mills, two small machine shops, a tannery, clothing works and carding machines. On Coldbrook was a larger tannery, and further up a turning shop. Lyon's salt works were in operation, doing a small business. As it regards the appearance of the village and its surroundings, there was a primitive air to the whole. Enterprise had been checked, and had not recovered from the shock. Capital was wofully lacking. The streets of the village were simply horrible. West of Division street and north of Fountain street, was a fine musical frog-pond, and between that and Canal street was the beautiful "Prospect Hill." A good open bridge was across the river at Bridge street. A good one-story school house was on Fulton street (burned two years afterward). There were two other school houses-temporary concerns. There was nothing on the east hill except along Fulton street. Trade was a round-about concern The mercantile interest was represented by about a dozen general merchants, one drug store, two hardware stores, and eight or ten groceries. The stocks of goods were small-from $3,000 to $5,ooo-generally bought and sold on credit. Two or three combined lumbering with their mercantile business. Others did business as they could; getting some cash; trusting extensively, especially those who were carrying on such business as required the employment of help. As most of the business men had little capital, they were obliged to make arrangements with the merchants to give orders on their stores, themselves to pay when they got their returns. Of course, to do business in this way, goods must be sold at a high figure. " One per cent." was the ruling profit; that is, one cent profit for one cent investment. Let us not censure the merchant for his high profits. It was the only way business could be done. It seems hard that the farmer must give that high price for his supplies, and pay in wheat at fifty cents a bushel. But it must be borne in mind that the merchant could not get his pay for a long time, with a fair chance of never receiving it at all. Many farmers who were trusted in this way were afterward thankful for the accommodation. Grand Rapids had been a theater of speculation. By reference to the statement of Mr. Ball, it will be seen what were the ideas about ten years before, when lots were held at about $50 per front foot. There was no such talk in 1846-47. During those years some transfers were made on Monroe and Canal streets. The two lots forming the corner north of Lyon street, at its junction with Canal street, were sold for $400; a lot below Waterloo street, on Monroe street, with a building on it, for $400; and a lot on the north side of Monroe street, nearly opposite, for $400. Lots on Division street, between Fulton and Bronson, were held at $200. Lots on the west 80 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. side, from $io0 to $25. On the hill, on Dexter Fraction, they were offered, but not sold, for $Io. On Bostwick's addition they were sold for $25. Outside of the village there was no fanciful value to the land. Kendall's addition was bought for $47 per acre; and the lot east of it offered for $20. Three miles out of town the best land was considered worth from $3 to $4; held loosely at that. The fact was, a great share of the property had non-resident owners. They had become sick of their investment, and were anxious to get rid of it, letting it be sold for taxes. If you had any "property" you could always sell it, if you would take land or lots for pay; these Deing hardly considered valuables. 0, what offers we all refused in those days! It makes us look blue when we recollect them; when we see, if we had only been able to look ahead, we might now be rolling in our wealth. How sad is the thought, "It might have been." This is an interesting exhibit of what Grand Rapids was, and how the place grew during the period while laying the foundations for that city that was to come. CHAPTER VII. OUTLINE SKETCH —COLONIAL, TERRITORIAL, STATE AND LOCAL. DIGRESSING momentarily from the thread of merely local settlement and development, take a hasty glance at the stiches set in earlier days, and the governmental and official seams leading therefrom into and through the corporate communities of this section of the Grand River Valley. Before and during and for some time after the Revolutionary War, this Upper Lake region of our country was little known, except the points where were missionary or trading stations. Indeed, from 1701 down to the administration of General Lewis Cass, which began in 1813, the history of Detroit, the territorial capital, and of Michilimackinac, the headquarters at the Straits of the early French vovyagcurs and Jesuit missionaries, may be said to comprise about all of the local history for that period, of what is now Michigan. This northwest country was a portion of what was called New France or Canada, from 1603 to November, I760, when it was surrendered to the British. Under both French and British control, the Governors or resident commandants exercised the functions of both civil and military authority, subject to orders of the commanding general to whom they reported. The first local civil government was provided in 1774. After Canada was divided into two provinces, in I791, Michigan formed a part of Upper Canada. The following are lists of Governors, or acting Governors, under each control: UNDER FRENCH RULE. Viscount d' Argenson..................... I658 -6I Baron d' Avangour....................... i66I-63 Chevalier de Saffrery-Mesy............... I663-65 Chevalier de Courcelles.................. I665-72 Comte Frontenac........................ I672-82 M. Lefebvre de la Barre................. I682-85 Marquis de Denouville.................... 685-89 Comte Frontenac........................ I689-99 Chevalier de Callieres................... 699-I705 Marquis de Vaudreuil.................... 1705-26 Marquis de Beauharnois.................. 1726-47 Count de la Galissonere.................. I747-49 Marquis de la Jonquiere.................. I749-52 Baron de Longueuil (acting short time).... I752 Marquis Duquesne de Menneville....... 1752-55 Pierre de Rigaud, Marquis de VaudreuilCavagnal.............................. 1755-60 UNDER ENGLISH RULE. General Jeffrey Amherst................. General James Murray................... Paulus Emelius Ivine (Pres. of Council)... Sir Guy Carlton (Lieut.-Gov)............. Hector T. Cramahe (Pres. of Council)..... Sir Guy Carleton........................ General Frederick Haldimand (Lieut. -Gov) Henry Hamilton (Lieut.-Gov)............ Colonel Henry Hope (Pres. of Council).... Guy Carlton, as Lord Dorchester.......... John Graves Simcoe (Lieut.-Gov. U. C)... 1760-63 1763-66 1766 I766 -70 1770-74 1774-78 1778-84 1784 1785 1785-92 1792-96 ' THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. Although this Territory was set off from Canada in I783, the United States did not get full control of Michigan till I796, and in the period between those years the Canadian governors had de facto authority. Virginia appears to have had primarily a well founded claim to possession of the Northwest Territory, by virtue of her original charter; but Massachusetts, Connecticut and New York also set up claims, and dissensions concerning them interfered somewhat with the formation of the Union. All of them, however, were finally surrendered. In I787 an ordinance was passed by Congress for the government of the territory northwest of the Ohio River, which is memorable from the fact that it excluded slavery forever and made liberal provision in perpetuity for the support of schools. M. Chauvin, Commander de Chastes, and M. de Montes........................ Samuel de Champlain, with Prince de Conde as acting Governor..................... Admiral Montmorenci as Acting Governor. Samuel de Champlain.................... M. de Chateaufort....................... M. de Montmagny....................... M. d' Aillebout.......................... M. Jean de Lauson....................... M. Charles de Lauson-Charny............ M. d' Aillebout.......................... 6 1603 -1612 -I619 -1633 -I636 I637 -I647 -1651 -I656 -1657 - -12 -I9 -29 -35 -47 -5S -56 -57 -58 89 HISTORY OF THE CITY UJP GRAND RAPIDS Under American government General Arthur St. Clair was Governor of the Northwest Territory from 1787 to I8oo, when the Territory was divided and the Territory of Indiana created. The latter included Michigan, and General William Henry Harrison was its Governor till I805. In i804 an act was passed which placed in the jurisdiction of Indiana Territory Michigan and all that part of the United States north of the thirtythird parallel, west to the Pacific Ocean. MICHIGAN TERRITORY. In i805 a division was made into two Territories-Indiana and Michigan-the latter to include that part of Indiana Territory lying north of a line drawn from the southern extremity of Lake Michigan due east to Lake Erie; and on July 2 of that year the Governor and Judges took the oath of office at Detroit. A Territorial seal was adopted, probably the private seal of Governor Hull. In 1814 Governor Cass devised another seal, which was duly recorded, bearing the motto, Tandecm fit surculus arbor "-indicating that the Michigan Territorial shoot had become an independent tree. In i8i6 a strip was taken from the Territory and included in the new State of Indiana. In i8i8 Congress added to Michigan Territory all of Wisconsin and the western part of the Upper Peninsula. In 1819 the election of a delegate to Congress was authorized. In I823 the government of the Territory was transferred from the Governor and Judges to the Governor and a Council of nine persons, to be selected by the President from eighteen persons elected by the people. In 1827 the people of the Territory were authorized to elect thirteen persons to constitute the Legislative Council. In I834 the Territorial limits were enlarged, by which Michigan Territory was made to include all of the present States of Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan, and a large part of Dakota. Wisconsin was set off in April, I836, leaving Michigan a Territory by itself. In 1835 a convention of eighty-nine delegates, chosen by the people, was authorized to form a State Constitution. It assembled in Detroit, May ii, and concluded its work June 24 of that year. Seventy-three delegates attended. Those from Kalamazoo county, which then included Kent, were Lucius Lyon, William H. Welch and Hezekiah G. Wells. The Constitution which they prepared was ratified and adopted by a vote of the people on the first Monday in October, I835. This Constitution remained in force as the fundamental law of the State until that of I850 went into operation. The Governors of the Territory of Michigan were: William Hull, March I, I805, to October 29, 1813, Lewis Cass, October 29, I813, to August 6, I831. George B. Porter, August 6, I831, to July 6, 834. Stevens T. Mason, July 6, I834, to September 20, I835. John S. Horner, September 20, 1835 to November 2, i835. STATE OF MICHIGAN. In June, I836, Congress passed an act for the admission of Michigan to the Union, provided she would accept the boundary which gave a strip of disputed territory on the south to the State of Ohio, and take in lieu of that what is known as the Upper Peninsula. This, after much cavil and the holding of two conventions, was finally agreed to by popular vote, and Michigan became a full-fledged State, January 26, 1837. And thus was ended a controversy with Ohio, which for a time assumed serious proportions, and which has since been popularly referred to as "The Toledo War." It has proved a very advantageous settlement for the State; the mineral resources of that upper section being found immeasurably greater than had been anticipated by the most sanguine dreamers. The State Government formed by the first Constitution has remained substantially unchanged in its main features, though marked changes in many of the details have since been made. In I850 a new Constitution was adopted, which remains in operation at the present day, with few amendments. The powers of Government are divided into three departments: Legislative, Executive and Judicial. The Legislative power is vested in a Senate and House of Representatives; the Senate consisting of 32 and the House of Ioo members, elected by districts every two years. The Executive power is vested in a Governor, chosen by popular election, who holds his office two years. The Judicial power is vested in a Supreme Court, circuit courts, probate STATE OFFICERS AND REPRESENTATIVES. courts, and justices of the peace, and, in cities, such other municipal courts of civil and criminal jurisdiction as may be established by the Legislature. Following are the names of State Governors, with dates of beginning of terms: TR BEGAN. Stevens TI Mason...... 1835 William Woodbridge..... 1840 J. Wright Gordon (iacting) 1841 John S. BarrN........ 1842 Alpheus F rich....... 18406 Win. L. Greenly (acting). 184 7 Epaphrodittis Ransom... 1848 John S. Ba'rry........ 1850 Robert McClellatnd..... 1852 A ndrew Parsons (ascting). 18513 Kinsley S. Bingham.... 1855 TRH BESGAN. Moses Wisner......1859 Austin Blair.......186t frenry H1 Cripo..... 1865 Henry 1' 1Baldwsin.....1869 John I. llingley...... 187:3 Charles M1 Croswell....1877 D)avid H. Jeiome....... 1881 -Josiaih W. 1B4.ole.....1883 Russell A. Al-er.....1885 Cyrus G. u~ce......1887 Of the other State officers, those chosen or appointed from Grand Rapids and vicinity have been: Lieuitenant-GovernorMoreau S. Crosby, i88i to i885. Secretaries of State-Charles H. Taylor, I850 to i853; Ebenezer G. D. Holden, i875 to i879. Attorneys-General-Byron D. Ball, 1873 to 1874;' Moses Taggart, i885 to i889. Commissioners of Railroads-Win. B. Williams, i877 to I883; Win. P. Innes, 1883 to i 885. Names of members of the Legislature from Kent county are given below in alphabetical order, with years of service, IN THlE SENATE. NATIONAL REPRESENTATION. In National affairs have served men more or less closely identified with Grand Rapids and the counties now comprising the Fifth Congressional District of Michigan, as follows: As Presidential Electors-In 1848, Rix Robinson; in i856, William H. Withey; in 1864, Thomas D. Gilbert; in 1872 and i876, William A. Howard; in i88o, Aaron B. Turner; in 1884, George G. Steketee, and in i888 Don J. Leathers. Territorial Delegate to Congress -I833-35, Lucius Lyon. In the U. S. Senate-i836-40, Lucius Lyon; i87i-83, Thomas W. Ferry. In the U. S. House of Representativesi843 —45, Lucius Lyon; i86i-65, Francis W. Kellogg; 1865-7i, Thomas W. Ferry; i87I-73, Wilder D. Foster; I873-77, William B. Williams; i877 —81, John W. Stone; 188i-83, George W. Webber; i883-85, Julius Houseman; i885 — 87, Charles C. Comstock; 1887-89, Melbourne H. Ford; 1889- -, Charles E. Belknap. FORMATIVE CARVING;. Under United States jurisdiction this region was originally included for civil purposes in the county of Wayne. By proclamation of Winthrop Sargent, acting as Governor of the territory northwest of the Ohio River, August 15, 1796, it was ordained and ordered that the lands within a boundary beginning at the mouth of Cuyahoga river, thence through several points mentioned in the order, to Fort Wayne, thence to the most southern part of Lake Michigan, thence along the western shore of that lake, to the northwest part thereof, thence north to the territorial boundary in Lake Superior, thence along that boundary through lakes Huron, St. Clair and Erie to the place of beginning, should "be a county, named and henceforth to be styled the County of Wayne." By a similar proclamation, January 14, 1803, William Henry Harrison, Governor of Indiana Territory, ordained that the Cpounty of Wayne should include the country within a boundary beginning at a point where an east and west line passing through the southerly extreme of Lake Michigan would intersect a north and south line, passing through the westerly extreme of said lake, thence north to the territorial boundary line, thence along said boundary line to a point where an east and west line passing through the southerly extreme of Andlrus, Wesley P.... 1877-78 ]lall, Byriin 1.).....1871-72 Bell, Digly v.....1842-4:1 Bridge, Henry P....1840-41 Crosbv, 'Moreau S.... 187:3-74 CUrtiss, John L. 188.5-8f6 loster, Wilder ii).1855-56; Hine, James W... 1883-84 Hine, Milton 13.....18791-80 Lapham, Smith.....1857-58 Lyon, Truman H... 1853-54 IN THE Allen, George W....1859-60 Alny,,john.......18:87-38 lBaldwin, Simeott L... 1877-748 Ball, Johti.......18388-39. Ileers, Philo......1850-51 Briggs, Edward L....1 8 73-74 Briggs, George G.. 1869-72 llritton, Roswell....1835-3f6 Catikin, volney WV.... 185 7-58 Cheney, Attherst 1B... 1877-80 Church, Thlonmas B1.... 1851-56 lDavis, William R....1869-70 Dlillon, Joseph.. 1887-88 Dockeray, James.. 1863-64 Earle, Nathaniel A... 1881-82 Eggleston, Ebenezer S. 1873-74 Fallass, Silas S.....1859-62 Ferry, Asa P).......1871-72 Finntey, Noble H....18:19 Fletcher, Niram. A.... 1883-84 Ford. Melbourtne H... 1885-86' Garfield, Charles W.. 1881-82 Garfield, Samuel M1... 1871-76 Gilbert, Thontas D.... 1861-62 GlFrattk H..... 1889 (Grisswold, Atugttstuis D. 1863-65 Haire, Johit......1861-62 hi'll, Nicholas R....1871-72 Houtsentan, Jutlitis... 1871-72 Iltint, Leontartd H....1887-88 Jewell, Edward....1865-67 Murray. Lyman....1875-76) Peirce, Peter R. I.... 1869-7(0 Porter, Lewis......1859-60 Richniond, Williant A. 184 4-45 Robiuisott, Ri'. 1846-41) Russell, Henr C 1881-82 Seymnour, Henry... 186 7-68 Stark, George P.. 1887-88 W~atkins, Milton C.... 1863-66 Wesselitis, Sybrant....- 1889 Witliey, Solomon 1L... 186;1-6'2 HOUSE. Johnson, Simeon Ml... 1843 Johnsoti, Welcome W. 187 7-78 Judd, George F.....1889) Kellogg, Francis W... 1857 -58 Killean, John......1887 -Kingsbury, Solonion 0 186 7-68 1.apham, ISmith......1855-56 McCorntick, Hettry F. 1879-80 lc'Millatn, Neal... 1887 -Moulton, Ltither V... 1879-80 Palnierlee, Hentatt... 1881-82 Porter, John......1863-64 Porter, L~ewis.......1857-58 Powers, William H.. 1879 80 Prin dlIe, C. W.....1877-8-SI-82 Ransom, James W.. 1875-7 Sellers, L. McKnight. 1883-86 Seymotur, Hettr-...... 1861-6 Shoentaker, DeWitt.. 1853-54 Slayton, Thomas J...186770 Snuith, Henry C... 1q84 1) -.)4 Stark, George P 188, 86 Taylor, Charles H...1847-48 Taylor, Willians H...1861 (i Thompson. (;eorge W. 1888 84 Traitn, Jarvis C.....1883-84 Dlrich, Mladison j.... 18185-86 Walker, Charles I 1841 Watkins, Erwin C....1873-76 Watkitns, Miltont C.... 1859-60 Witite, George H....1863-64 84 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Lake Michigan would intersect the same, thence along this last mentioned line to the place of beginning. These two boundaries differ but slightly. Were our county now of that area, it would include almost the entire State, a strip from the east side of Wisconsin, and also Chicago, and would have a resident population of more than 3,000 ooo, ooo. KENT COUNTY. In i829 Kalamazoo county was organized, and by act of the Legislative Council of the Territory of Michigan, July 30, 1830, all the country north of it, which included what is now Kent county, was attached to and made a part of Kalamazoo county for judicial purposes. By act of the Legislative Council, March 2, I83I, Kent county was set off and named. Under an act of July 31, i830, and amendments subsequent thereto, James Kingsley, S. V. R. Trow~bridge and Charles Lanman, Commissioners appointed by the Governor for that purpose, located the county seat at Grand Rapids, and set the stake therefor November 8, I833, as narrated elsewhere, near the center of what is now known as Fulton Street Park. On the 24th of March, i836, by an act of the State Legislature, Kent county was organized-the act to take effect on the first Monday in April of that yearwhen it began business for itself. Kent county originally comprised sixteen townships, but subsequently eight townships were added on the north, giving it twentyfour. The township of Kent was organized March 7, I834, and was then made to include all that part of Kent county south of Grand River. February I6, i842, the name of the township was changed from Kent to Grand Rapids. The township of Walker was incorporated December 30, I837, and originally included all that part of Kent county north of Grand River. From these two townships the village, and afterward the city, of Grand Rapids was taken. There never was an incorporated "Village of Kent," though in popular speech and in a general sense, in the early days, that name was sometimes given to the part lying between Div s'on street and the river and north of the original Campau plat. Similarly the latter plat was named "Plat of the village of Grand Rapids," though there was no legally incorporated village at that time. CHAPTER VIII. BEGINNINGS IN THE TWO TOWNSHIPS. THE municipal history of Grand Rapids properly begins in the two townships of Kent (afterward Grand Rapids) and Walker, from which the city was taken. The first town election in Kent was held April 4, 1834, as directed by the organizing act of the Legislative Council, at the house of Joel Guild, where now stands the National City Bank. Within the town at that time was all that part of the present city site lying east and south of the river; and the township government and officers included all that in their jurisdiction, until the city charter came into operation in i850. The village organization had its exclusive officers and powers over the village portion, but these did not displace the regular township business therein, and a majority of the town officers, up to I850, were residents of the village. April I3, I834, occurred the first marriage, of Barney Burton and Harriet Guild, and March 12, I835, Eliphalet H. Turner, Town Clerk, issued a marriage license to Asa Fuller and Susan Dwinnell, both of Kent township. The township receipts for the first' year appear by the records to have been $66.50; expenses, $45. 12; leaving $2I.38 in the hands of the Supervisor. January 28, 1836, Darius Winsor, Town Clerk, issued a marriage license to Sylvester Hill and Harriet Burton (Hill being duly sworn "as to his legality to marry," and a certificate of the mother of the bride consenting to the marriage being produced). This lady lived in what is now Wyoming township. Marriage licenses were also issued: February 25, 1836, to Joseph B. Copeland and Sophia Brooks; March 26, to Robert Barr and Mary Guild; April 5, to Aaron Sibley and Pauline Doty. The town records show the usual routine of town business, election of officers, and matters relating to schools, highways, and other public regulations in rural communities, including licenses "to keep tavern." Dur ing the year from I837 to i841, inclusive, there seems to have been occasional trouble with depreciated money in the town funds, but it is not of record that any very serious public loss was sustained thereby. The name of the town was changed from Kent to Grand Rapids by legislative act, February 26, i842. In 1845 a pest house was authorized, to be at least a mile outside the village limits, and Doctors Shepard and Platt were authorized to vaccinate-the poor for "kind" pox, according to the record. On April 3, 1850, was held the usual town election, but as the city was organized in the following month, those town officers who resided within the city limits resigned, and a special election in the township of Grand Rapids was held, June 8, to fill vacancies thereby occasioned. The records of this township period were very clearly and neatly kept, and are well preserved, but are not very voluminous. TOWNSHIP PROCEEDINGS. At the first meeting, April 4, i834, nine voters were present. Rix Robinson was chosen Moderator, and Jonathan F. Chubb Secretaryjpro tern. They elected the following officers: Town Clerk-Eliphalet H. Turner. Supervisor-Rix Robinson. Assessors —Joel Guild, Barney Burton. Collector-Ira Jones. Poormaster - Luther Lincoln. Constables - Myron Roys, Ira Jones. Overseer of Highways-Jonathan F. Chubb. "Voted, that a fence five feet high (the distance between rails for three feet high six inches) shall be a lawful fence;" also "that Luther Lincoln, Jonathan F. Chubb, Gideon H. Gordon, and Barney Burton, shall act as fence viewers." This was a goodly array of officers for a town of nine voters; but they were determined to start with a full-fledged government. Following the record of this election, the oaths of office of the persons elected are spread 86 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. upon the book, in form of regular affidavits. The Town Clerk was sworn in by Leonard Slater, Justice of the Peace; the others were sworn by the Town Clerk. Luther Lincoln affirmed, simply, in the Quaker manner; the others swore plumply in legal form. It was the custom, at first, for the Collector to pay over the moneys collected to the Supervisor, who annually rendered an account of receipts and disbursements. Antoine Campau was the first Town Treasurer, elected in i839. At the end of the first year, March 31, I835, the Highway Commissioners reported assessments of 320o2 days' works, 174 of which were paid in labor, i09 commuted for, and the rest not collected. They further reported that the "commute money" had been laid out in labor, and that they were "in debt for two and half days work done by Rix Robinson not settled for." Three highway districts were recorded, covering all the ground between the river and Plaster Creek, thence east past the lakes and well out toward the Thornapple River. On the 4th of April, I835, there was a special election held to choose delegates to form a State Constitution, at which 41 votes were cast for Lucius Lyon, 41 for Lyman J. Daniels, 40 for Lovell Moore, 32 for William H. Welch, 12 for Joseph Miller, 2I for Hezekiah G. Wells, two for Isaac Barns. In April, I835, also was the first election in Grand Rapids for county officers (at that time Kalamazoo county). And the oaths of office —" affidavits"-of the town officers chosen at the second annual election, first Monday in April, i835, are recorded in full, as are also the official bonds of those required to give such security. On the 9th of May, I835, the first school district was established by the Town Board and defined by a boundary commencing at the southwest corner of fraction in Section 34, Town 7 North, Range I2 West; thence running east to the south[east] corner of Section 31, Town 7 North, Range i West; thence north along the section line to the northeast corner of Section 7, Town 7 North, Range I West; thence west to Grand River. This district appears to have included all that is now within the city limits on the east side of the river and to have extended one and a half miles further north. Thus early were the foundations laid for a liberal system of public schools here. And in nearly every year a goodly sum (for those times) was voted, to be raised by tax, for their support; in some years, under the township management, as much as $200. At the annual meeting in April, i836, it was voted "that a bounty of $5 be paid for every wolf scalp taken in this town." Adjourned to meet the first Monday in April, I837, at the house of Hiram Hinsdill. Not much beyond the routine of electing officers was done at this next meeting. On the 2d of April, i838, the voters met at a dwelling house and adjourned to the court house in the village. Ezekiel W. Davis was chosen Moderator. Voted, that $200 be raised for support of the poor. So it appears that they had the poor with them, after the financial crash of I837. Voted, that $3 be paid for the scalp of every wolf taken in the town and $i for every wolf's whelp, and that $50 be raised by tax for that purpose. Voted, that a lawful fence be one four and a half feet high. In this and several subsequent years it was voted that neat stock, horses and hogs, with certain exceptions named, should be "free commoners." Charles Shepard, Town Clerk, was allowed $10.38; Antoine Campau, Assessor, $i5, and Henry P. Bridge, Assessor, $I8, for services. In the first three months of I839 the Board audited and allowed accounts amounting to $228.50. On settlement with the Supervisor they "found a surplus fund remaining in his hands of ninety-two dollars and forty cents." On the first Monday in April, i839, it is recorded that I88 votes were cast. It is the first at which such statement of the number is given. Voted to raise $300 for support of the poor. At the annual meeting, April 6, I840, there were I39 votes polled. Poundmaster John W. Peirce was authorized by vote to select a "sight" for a pound, and to receive funds for building the same when collected. Voted, for support of the poor $I5o, and $200 for the support of public schools. May 27, the Town Board met and granted licenses "to keep a tavern" to Solomon Withey and James T. Finney. August 30 the Board voted to raise $350 for "ordinary expenses of the town for the current year." Accounts allowed, $ 98.49, up to the end of the calendar year. In March, i84I, the Board held two or three meetings to determine what should be done with $247 of bills of the Michigan GRAND RAPIDS AND WALKER TOWNSHIPS 87 Bank in the Treasury. Finally the Treasurer was authorized to negotiate a loan of the funds-proposals therefor having been received from Edmund B. Bostwick; Smith, Aldrich & Evans; Warren Granger & Co., and Amos Roberts- taking satisfactory security. What the Treasurer (Harvey K. Rose) did in the matter is not recorded, but on March 30 his report was accepted. Later in that year the bank failed. April 5, I84I, there were;3I votes polled. For town expenses a tax assessment of $ioo was authorized. Philander Tracy was appointed Poundmaster. April 27, Canton Smith and James T. Finney were licensed to keep tavern. In i842, February i6, the name of the town was changed, and thereafter the record is that of Grand Rapids instead of Kent. At the April meeting $300 were voted for contingent expenses of the ensuing year, and $200 for primary schools. During the year accounts were allowed amounting to about $184. In the following year-1843 -the expenditures were $257.26. January 12, 1844, William R. Barnard and Charles Trompe were licensed as tavernkeepers. Amount raised at the April meeting for contingent expenses, $200. May i, licenses to keep tavern were granted to Canton Smith and Truman H. Lyon. In the spring of i845 the amount voted for contingent expenditures was $300. At this election a vote was taken on the license question, resulting: For License, 89; No License, I2I. The accounts audited for the year amounted to about $243. For several following years the amounts of money voted were: In 1846, for expenses, $200. In i847, $350 for contingent fund. In I848, for expenses, $300; for killing Canada thistles, $io, "to be paid to Billius Stocking upon his satisfying the Board that he has destroyed the same;" fifty cents per scholar for common schools. In i849 for contingent expenses $300; for the poor, $200, and $250 for planking on the Cascade road. At the annual April election in i850, 414 votes were polled, indicating a flattering increase in the population. In May of that year the organization of the city of Grand Rapids extinguished within its limits the township form of government. Following are lists of the principal town officers up to the time of that change, except Supervisors, who are given in another place: Town Clerks-Eliphalet H. Turner, i834; Darius Winsor, I835-36; Sylvester Granger, I837; Charles Shepard, i838; James T. Finney, 1839; Kendall Woodward, I84o-4I; John W. Peirce, I842; Solomon L. Withey, i843-46. David E. English, I847; Amos Hosford Smith, i848-50. Treasurers-Antoine Campau, 1839; Harvey K. Rose, 1840-42; Harry Eaton, I843 -45; Wilder D. Foster, i846; Alfred X. Cary, I847-48; Erastus Hall, I849-50. J ustices of the Peace —Lewis Reed, Luther Beebe, Darius Winsor, Richard Godfroy, 1836; George Martin, I837; Barney Burton, i838; Luther Beebe, i839; Jacob Barns, Lewis Reed, i840; George Coggeshall, I84I; Lovell Moore, i842; William G. Henry, i843; Sylvester Granger, i844; George Coggeshall, i845; Ezekiel W. Davis, I846; William G. Henry, Charles C. Rood, i847; James Miller, I848; Charles P. Calkins, i849; Richard Sterling, i850. Among the villagers who served as Assessors during the township era, beginning with 1834, were Joel Guild, Darius Winsor, Stephen Wilson, George Coggeshall, Richard Godfroy, Thomas Sargeant, Henry P. Bridge, Antoine Campau, Edmund B. Bostwick, James M. Nelson, William G. Henry, George C. Nelson, Truman H. Lyon, Harry Eaton, DeWitt C. Lawrence, Solomon 0 Kingsbury, Boardman Noble, Canton Smith. Collectors-Ira Jones, J. S. Potter, Aaron Russell (four terms), William I. Blakely (two terms). The majority of such other town officers as Highway Commissioners,' Overseers of the Poor, and Constables, during that entire period, were village residents. School Inspectors-Lyman Gray, Abram S. Wadsworth, Luther Beebe, Charles Shepard, Stephen Wilson, Alfred D. Rathbone, George C. Nelson, William A. Richmond, Charles H.Taylor, Melancthon Hoyt, George Martin, Charles F. Barstow, John W. Peirce, Francis H. Cuming, Philander H. Bowman, Franklin Everett, John H. Hollister. - WALKER TOWNSHIP. The town of Walker was created by legislative act, December 30, I837, and originally included all that part of Kent county north of Grand River. Hence the records of about one-third of the present city area start in that town. Its first town-meeting was held in the Mission school house, which stood just south of West Bridge street and 88 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. west of Front street, in the spring of 1838, and nearly all the annual meetings were held at the same place up to the time of the city organization in I85O. There was no village organization in Walker, and that part of this city was under township jurisdiction and form of government up to the time just mentioned, though in business and social relations and interests the communities on the two sides of the river were intimately connected; and a considerable number of the prominent and active men in enterprises tending to the upbuilding of the city that we now have were among the early residents of the Walker side. In its beginnings that was a thrifty and economical town, and conducted its public affairs in the simple and direct, old-fashioned way, the plain country methods. The growth of the township, as shown by the vote cast there, was not rapid, apparently, but for a dozen years the continuous dropping off of a portion of its territory by the organization of new townships accounts for that. The number of votes polled in the spring of I844 was I36, and between that number and I74 was the range for the succeeding four years. In I844 the amount voted to be raised for general expenses was $ I oo; expenditure, $ I02; and these figures were scarcely more than doubled six years later. The township has a record on the liquor question of a vote in I847 of 47 against two in favor of license. It has also a record of liberality, but not prodigality, in appropriations for schools and for highways. Of the leading town officers (except Supervisors, who are given elsewhere), from its organization to i850, when part was cut off for the city, the following is the list: Clerks-Isaac Turner, 1838-42; Aaron B... Turner, I843-44; Isaac Turner, I845; Ebenezer Davis, 1846-47; Isaac M. Watson, I848; Solomon Corey, 1849. Treasurers-Harry Eaton, i838; Lovell Moore, i839-40; Ebenezer Davis, I841-42; Billius Stocking, I843-46; Sullivan Armstrong, I847; George P. Hogadone, i848; Avery Brace, i849. Justices of the Peace-Robert Hilton, Isaac Turner, Ira Jones, Josiah Burton, I838; Josiah Burton, i839; Billius Stocking, Lovell Moore, 1840; Josiah Burton, 1841; Zelotes Bemis, Billius Stocking, 1842; Isaac Turner, i843; Charles McCarty, i844; Josiah, Burton, I845; Milo White, i846; Elihu N. Faxon, George M. Barker, i847; Thomas Healy, I848; Gideon D. Graves, Jonathan Blair, i849. The early records of the town of Walker are incomplete; some of its books having been destroyed by the burning of the Town Hall. CHIIAPTER IX. THE VILLAGE OF GRAND RAPIDS. THEi VI.lAGEl: of Grand Rapids was incorporated by legislative act April 5, I838. It included the territory on the east side of Grand River bounded by a line beginning in Fulton street at the river; thence east to the southeast corner of Hatch's addition; north to the line of Hastings street; west to the west line of Canal street; south along the west line of Canal street to a point where said line struck the river, which at that time was by the foot of Pearl street; thence down the shore of the river to the place of beginning. By an amendment to the village charter, January i6, i843, the west line of HIatch's addition was substituted for the east line, thus by so much narrowing the village area. Hatch's addition was where since is Kendall's addition. Another amendment, March 23, 1848, enlarged the limits, making the boundary begin on the east bank of Grand River between Sections 25 and 36 of Town 7 North, Range I2 West; thence east on the section line, where now is Wealthy avenue, to the middle of the southern boundary of the west half of the southeast quarter of Section 30 in Town 7 North, of Range II \West; thence north to Coldbrook; thence along the north bank of Coldbrook to the river; thence along the east bank of the river at low water mark to the place of beginning. A third amendment, March 31, i849, vacated all that part of the village lying east of the Bostwick addition and south of Fulton street, and also all east of the Dexter Fraction. Thus it stood till the change from village to city was made in I850. The hamlet for three or four years after first settlement in I833 grew rapidly. From I837 to I850 the progress was comparatively slower, but for most of the time it was constant. Various branches of manufacturing were started, in a moderate way, moving forward barely fast enough to meet the simplest wants of the not very large nor wealthy population in Grand Rapids and the towns about, and up and down the Grand River Valley. The incorporation of the village gave it a civil as well as municipal autonomy, though the regular township machinery and jurisdiction for other than the special village requirements continued. The story of the village covers a period of twelve years, during which there was steady, though not very rapid, growth in population, in general progress and improvement and wealth. Its organization was just at the time when the financial revulsion from a speculative period left the community comparatively poor and disheartened. They were out of cash and almost out of credit. And a great flood in that spring of I838, just previous to the organization under the village charter, had seriously added to the general embarrassment. Of the situation at that time Frank Little, of Kalamazoo, writes: Our family-father, mother, sister, a younger brother and myself-were residents of Grand Rapids' in the summer of I838. My first personal acquaintance with the place dates from the first of March, 1838. I was then an inexperienced lad of fourteen and a half years. I was impressed with the magnitude and grandeur of the river, particularly the falls or rapids. The village swarmed with Indians who were spearing sturgeon in the river. We arrived just as a notable ice gorge-memorable in history, that commenced at the lower island and backing up rapidly, had submerged the whole town seemingly. save the elevation known as Prospect Hill-had broken through and the flood of waters subsided. All that portion then known as Kent was literally jammed and crammed full of immense icebergs. Judge Almy's. house on the river bank, a short distance above the present site of Sweet's Hotel, was nearly all under water. My uncle, Lovell Moore, and family then occupied the Mission house on the west side, and it was a number of days before we could safely cross the river to visit them. Mr. Cramton took us over in a canoe, although the mountains of ice made it very difficult to get access to the channel. I spent the night in the chamber of the Mission house, but slept little, from the novelty of the situation, the moaning of the wind through some pine 90 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. trees, and the incessant, impressive roar of the rapids. The Stevens T. Malson, a steamboat that had been running on the river the previous summer, was jammed from its moorings by the ice and flood and driven inland up the valley of a small creek to a point well toward Dr. Platt's early residence, corner of Fulton and Division streets. The waters subsiding left the boat stranded high and dry, a long distance from the river. Capt. Short, and his son-inlaw Jennings, in the spring of I838, spent a number of weeks getting the boat back again into the river, a work that I viewed with much boyish interest and curiosity, at short intervals, until it was accomplished. There was great scarcity of forage-no straw, no tame hay, and very little of wild or "Catholic hay," so-called, which was mainly composed of rushes, flags, cat-tails and weeds. We had six head of cattle, oxen and cows, to subsist, and we made long journeys in various directions in search of this wild fodder, which we could only get in small quantities at any one place, paying for the same at the rate of $30 and $35 per ton-guess weight. When we arrived in Grand Rapids in March, the "wild-cat" banks, as they were known, were just tottering to their fall-the air was rife with rumors of this one and that one that was reported to have closed its doors-"busted"-and the panic-stricken people were filled with dire forebodings and alarm. Each one examined his bills at night, and trembled in view of the uncertainties of the morrow; for the issues of a night, who could foretell? In a very remarkable way the Grand River Valley had been sown with a particular variety of this worthless trash known as "Lapeer money," ''thick as leaves in Vallambrosa." Some prominent citizens were criminally prosecuted for undue officiousness in "floating" Lapeer money; but in the general and immediate land-slide that submerged all the wild-cat banks, it seemed invidious to make any distinctions, and general anathemas were hurled at all the bank swindlers, without reference to character or degree of guilt. In June, I838, was a grand Indian payment at Grand Rapids-the Government annuity. It was estimated that io,ooo Indians were encamped in the village. The leading French traders with the Indians-the Messrs. Louis, Antoine and Toussaint Campau, and the Godfroys-garnered a rich harvest of silver half dollars, until their measures were full to overflowing. I well remember and became quite attached to Aaron B. Turner and Jacob Barns, who, I think, worked as apprentices or in some capacity in the old Grand River Times printing office, up Canal street. I think the Lucius Lyon salt well, at the foot of the foundations of "the big mill" in Kent, had been bored to the depth of 300 feet or more, as early as I838. I am quite confident that I then saw the brackish water running to waste in the river. [This is probably a mistake as to time. Lucius Lyon's contract for the boring was made late in I839, and the overflow from the tubing was obtained August 21, I84I.-EDITOR.] During the stringency, and for want of any good circulating currency, in I838, not only some of the merchants but the vil lage resorted to the expedient of issuing notes in the similitude of bank bills-promises to pay, or shinplasters, as they were called in popular speech. Several hundred dollars for small change, and in one and two dollar bills, were thus put in circulation, and for some years were found a great convenience. Eventually they were all, or nearly all, redeemed, with very little if any loss to those who were constrained to use them. Few streets in town, during the village days, were worked enough to make passable road-beds in all weathers. Those in springy and swampy ground had ditches made at the sides, with here and there little plank bridges over the brooks. Canal street was a miry morass all the way from Pearl street to Coldbrook, and Division street, in wet weather, was a slough of mud south to the village line, and the road likewise for a mile beyond. Monroe street was at times a bed of heavy clay mortar. The financial tightness continued, and was rather increased in i841 by the failure of the Bank of Michigan. In August the first salt well, above Bridge street on the east bank of the river, was tubed, and the water thus procured was of such strength as to inspire hope of great profits from the manufacture of salt. The first notable burglary in Grand Rapids occurred in the night of November I2, I84I, when the safe of Amos Roberts was robbed of $500 in specie and about $I25 in bank bills. For wolf bounties $96 were paid from the county treasury in that year. In December a mill 'was completed by Granger & Ball at Plaster Creek, and the manufacture of land plaster was begun. John Ball, in that year, wrote to a New England newspaper that in all his travels he had not found another country combining so many advantages as this about Grand Rapids, "not even the celebrated Oregon." An auspicious event of the beginning of the year 1842 was the dedication, January 2, of the Congregational Church at the corner of Monroe and Division streets, which was originally built for the Roman Catholics. In March, i842, a local writer took a view of the village and reported as follows: Within the short space of six years as many thousand inhabitants have taken up their residence in the Grand River country. About one thousand are contained in the village of Grand Rapids. It THE HARD WINTER-FIRST MURDER TRIAL 91 contains at this time eight dry goods stores, one hardware, one drug and medicine, and one book store; four tailor, four blacksmith, three shoemaker, two carriage making, one chair and two cabinet shops; three public inns, two churches, a court house, two flouring mills, one saw mill, one tannery, one brewery, one pail factory, and one printing office; two physicians, six ministers of the gospel, and (we blush to mention it) only nine lawyers. Besides the above, there are two churches building, the salt works nearly completed, a plaster mill and some half dozen saw mills just about the village. In that spring of 1842, a "Washingtonian" (temperance) society of fifty or more members was organized. About the first of May salt manufacture was begun at the Lucius Lyon Works, and the event was celebrated May 17 by a public dinner at the Grand River Exchange hotel. In the same month the corner-stone was laid of the Reformed Dutch church, corner of Bridge and Ottawa streets. The building was never finished, but was used for worship and for school purposes many years. Early in July the canal on the east side of the rapids was finished, and the water let into the basin. In August a bell weighing about i,ooo pounds arrived for the Congregational church. It was the first bell of the village, of much size, and its ringing was hailed as a sign of progress. An immigration society was organized in August, of which John Ball was appointed agent. The arrival of goods shipped from New York, by some of the village merchants, in the short time of two weeks, by lake and river route, and at a freight rate of eighty cents per hundred pounds, was a subject of congratulation. There was a foot bridge across the river rapids in that summer. In the fall a stage line to Pontiac was established. The winter of I842-43 has ever since been characterized as "the hard winter." Snow fell to a great depth in November and December. There appears to have been a premonition of this, for in November an editorial item in the Enquirer newspaper announced: "The squirrels, it is said, are pushing south in large numbers. Those wise in such matters say that this betokens a severe winter." On March 29, I843, the statement was published that for more than four months the weather had been cold and freezing, with snow from two to four feet deep. It did not abate until April. Large numbers of cattle perished from starvation, and in the village and adjoining townships the few saved were kept alive by browsing, for which purpose many acres of timber were cut. Orrin B. Gilbert, in this county, lost his way and perished in the snow, near the south line of Oakland township, about the 24th of March. In May.occurred the first murder trial of this vicinage, that of one E. M. Miller, charged with the murder, near Muskegon, in December previous, of an Indian squaw, which caused considerable local excitement. The report of it in the ohly newspaper then printed here, gives very little light as to the facts developed. Miller was convicted, and later in the season sentenced to be hung, and preparations for the execution were made on the public square in February, i844, by Sheriff Solomon Withey. An act of the Legislature abolishing the death penalty intervened just in time to save the prisoner from the scaffold. A sentence to imprisonment for life was substituted. Several years later he was pardoned, new disclosures indicating that he was not guilty of the crime charged. There was a rapid increase of the population this year from the influx of new settlers. Stephen Hinsdill started a woolen factory. This place was not quite out of the woods in I844, as is indicated by the fact that the public accounts showed $208 paid in bounties for killing twenty-six wolves within the county during the previous year. The Legislature appropriated six thousand acres of land for the building of "a free bridge across Grand River at Grand Rapids." A company for the work had been previously incorporated. Thomas D. Gilbert reported forty-eight arrivals and forty-six departures of vessels at the mouth of Grand River in March and April, I844, an encouraging indication of the growth of trade at the time. On the I2th of July occurred the first very serious fire in the village-the burning of the court house and jail. This started a movement for better protection against fire. A new court house, a small one, costing only $300, was built soon afterward. The burning of the little dwelling of Mrs. Twamley, a widow with three little children, and all their household effects, was the chief exciting event of January, i845, in this village. The winter, as to storms and temperature, was comparatively mild, and navigation opened early. A new steamboat was built at the foot of Canal street, by Captain Jasper Parish-the Empire. The 92 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. engine for that boat was the first of the kind constructed here. It was made at the shop of Henry G. Stone & Company; the patterns by Andrew Ferguson. It was of seventy-five horse power. A pamphlet issued in the spring of i845 contained the following brief business inventory of Grand Rapids: Fifteen stores, three flour mills, two saw mills, two furnaces and machine shops, two pail factories, two tanneries, one woolen factory, one sash factory, salt works, plaster mill, two hatters, three shoe shops, three tailors, one tin and copper smith, one saddler, several blacksmiths, three public houses, two printing offices, four churches, one incorporated academy, and three physicians. April 2I the Enquirer announced the appearance of the first dray, as follows: "Let it be chronicled for the annalist; the month of April, i845, saw the first truck at Grand Rapids. Mr. David Kent is the enterprising owner and driver." Two steamboats were then running between this village and Grand Haven. An ox weighing 1,700 pounds on foot was brought in from Barry county and slaughtered, whereupon the people feasted. A railroad meeting was held June 25, at which it was resolved to petition for a charter for a railroad from Battle Creek to Grand Rapids. The completion of the stone work for the first bridge across the river-at Bridge street-was the occasion of a lively celebration, August 9. The capstone was laid on the western pier, with Masonic ceremonies. The bridge was completed that season. The following further description of the appearance of and signs of progress in the village of Grand Rapids at this period is given by Frank Little, of Kalamazoo: My second residence in.Grand Rapids dates from December, 1844, with an engagement as clerk in the store of J. Morrison, in January, I845, which was situated at the foot of Monroe street, next door north of Col. Amos Roberts' stone building in the row fronting east, up Monroe street. I had grown some, but Grand Rapids had grown more, and had become a thriving, prosperous town. True, the country generally had but partially recovered from the terrible scourge of bankruptcy and financial "blue ruin" that had swept the land as with the besom of destruction. But the people were beginning to take heart, to crawl out from under cover, and business was reviving. I remember that the principal currency of Grand Rapids at that time was Smith's, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Marine and Fire Insurance notes, and the bills of the several branches of the State bank of Itrdiana. I do not think the notes of a single Michigan bank were current at par at that time. A large colony of Hollanders from the old country soon settled at Black Lake, Zeeland and Holland, on the east shore of Lake Michigan. These emigrants brought more or less gold with them-ten guilder pieces, valued at $4 each. Much of this Dutch gold found its way up to Grand Rapids, and with the silver coin disbursed by the Government to the Indians, furnished a most valuable stable currency, and materially advanced the material wealth and business prosperity of the town. The frontage of the Roberts and Morrison stores in I845, was literally the cul ad' sac of Monroe street. The right-angled narrow exit between "Tanner Taylor's" store on the south, and the Mills store on the north, into Canal street, was scarcely discernible; and particularly so by the runaway teams from up Monroe street, which were never able to double the "narrows," but almost invariably were corraled, massed in a heap and laid out, hoirs de com(bat, in front of our store. Especially wvas this the case in winter, when icv. If two horses with sleigh were thus running, one or both of them would slip down opposite Faneuil Hall or the Rathbun, and the momentum would bring the whole outfit, horses, harness, sleigh, robes, straw, jugs, el cel'ra, in a most confusing heap up against and onto our platform. Seldom were the horses seriously maimed or injured, although these runaways were of almost daily occurrence. In the late fall and early spring Monroe street, from Division to Canal street, became literally a river of mud. This mud was frequently from six to eight inches deep the whole width of the street, and thick like hasty pudding. From the summit at Luce's Block the descent was much more rapid than now, and in the early morning could be seen unmistakable evidences that, during the night, the whole viscous mass of mud to the depth indicated, had, like an immense Swiss glacier, moved bodily down the hill ten, fifteen or twenty feet. The people of Grand Rapids were noted for hospitality, and a cordial, hearty welcome of all strangers and new comers. There was nothing cold, chilling or forbidding in society, no aristocracy of blood or condition-no exclusiveness. All sorts and conditions were recognized, and accorded standing room. I bear cheerful testimony in my own experience, to the warm-hearted friendliness, and generous, kindly interest taken in my welfare, and the volunteer disinterested proffers of aid by many, many well remembered friends. In the early months of i846 concerts by a newly organized brass band, conducted by Prof. Marston, were among the leading amusements, and lyceum discussions were prominent as intellectual feasts. Mild weather with muddy streets prevailed, with the ice brokon in the river in February, and navigation opened March I. An unusually rapid falling of the river, after it had been swollen by rains, was noticed this season. As an explanation, it was said that there was a lower stage of water in the lakes, producing a stronger current out of the rivers. On June 24 John Post, a painter, was killed by falling from the top of the Congregational church belfry with the iron cross which CANAL AROUND THE RAPIDS —CHURCH BUILDING. 93 he was engaged in removing. A daily mail from Battle Creek, established in August, marked a new era in postal facilities. Toward spring in i847 there was a little excitement over the purchase of lands in Ottawa county for a colony from the Netherlands, and the expectation that a considerable number of those Hollanders would eventually settle in this village. Lansing was selected as the location for the State Capital, in February; and a legislative grant for the construction of a canal around the rapids, further raised the hopes and stimulated the enterprise of the villagers. The long-headed ones saw in it a source of profit; not so much from the use of the canal as a transfer station in navigation as from the increased value of the water power to result from the improvement. March 24 an "Irish Relief Meeting" was held, the first of the kind here. "Liberal subscriptions" were made, but their exact measure does not appear of record. Up to this season it had been the custom of boats plying between Grand Rapids and Grand Haven to land almost anywhere along the route, where a handkerchief or a hat was waved as a signal. This spring the announcement was made that they would stop only where sufficient docks were provided. A delegation of thirty-six persons from this village attended the River and Harbor Convention held at Chicago, July 5, I847. The laying of the corner stone of St. Mark's Church (Episcopal) took place on the 9th of June, and the church was consecrated November i8, Bishop McCoskry officiating. In 1848 the electors voted in May on the question of license or no license for the sale of ardent spirits. The vote stood: For license 80o, against license II. There were a few cases of cholera in July. In September a bell ringer was engaged, to ring the Congregational church bell, morning, noon and night, at a salary of $50 a year. October 27, the agricultural society of the town of Walker held a fair at the west end of the bridge. It was the beginning of that class of exhibitions here. The payment of the Indian annuity occurred on the I sth of November. About $20,000 in coin was disbursed, and as a large part of it went into the coffers of traders, it was hailed as an important help financially. A building was this year erected on West Bridge street for public uses, and was occupied for some years by Dr. Joseph Penney as a lecture room, and by others for kindred purposes and religious meetings. Agitation of the project of a plank road to Kalamazoo was begun in December. The year 1849 opened with cold weather and good sleighing, which gave liveliness to the lumber business, and to general trade in the village. There was some scolding in the newspapers about the piles of wood brought in by farmers and placed in the streets or on sidewalks. Good beech and maple wood, four feet in length, was then worth from $i to $1.50 per cord. The school house in District No. i was burned on the night of February 22. High water just after the middle of March stopped business at the mills for some days; flooded the lower part of the town as far back as where the Union railroad depot now is, and covered the islands in the river nearly out of sight. An amendatory act was passed by the Legislature concerning the construction of the canal and locks around the rapids, chiefly regulatory; as to the manner of settling accounts with James Davis, the contractor, and authorizing the construction of a dam across the river. The corner-stone of the Roman Catholic church, built on Monroe street of the river limestone, was laid June io. The walls were completed in August. It was roofed in October, and consecrated in the following year. There were several fatal cases of cholera at and near Grandville in that season, but this village escaped the scourge. Work on the canal (east side) was resumed in July, and prosecuted vigorously. The water was turned away from the east channel of the river by a temporary dam, and excavations were begun for locks from the basin into the slack water below. The files of "Dutch buggies," as the wheelbarrows were called, attracted much attention. The east half of the basin was cut off by an embankment through the center, and that part of it next Canal street made dry land, and turned over for building and business uses. The proposed locks were never constructed. The work was suspended shortly afterward, and the canal rested. There was much activity in building that season, business generally was brisk, and the people began to grow cheerful in the prospect of a realization of their early dreams as to the coming importance of Grand Rapids. The Union 94 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS School building, constructed of limestone, where now stands the fine brick Central, east of Ransom street, was completed that fall. A three-story wood building on Canal street, a short distance above Lyon, was erected by Harry H. Ives and Benjamin Luce, the second story of which was used for a public hall, and the third story was occupied by the Sons of Temperance as a lodge room. There was a good stage of water in the river all summer, and freight and passenger traffic was lively. The bell in the Congregational meeting house became cracked in November, and there was sighing among those who had depended upon its ringing to know when dinner was ready. At the time of the Indian payment, October 22, it was remarked that the Indians were from year to year growing worse in condition, as regarded poverty, dissipation and general demoralization. From August 24 to December 22, there was no death of an inhabitant of the village. A notable incident of this year was the holding of the first agricultural fair of the County Society, on the Public Square. January 14, I850, occurred the burning of a building on Monroe street, just below the then new Catholic Church, used in part as a chapel and in part as the priest's residence, by which two women-the mother and sister of the Rev. Mr. Kilroy-lost their lives. This was the Richard Godfroy house, built in i835. The village had only a small hand engine, and two lines of men with pails were formed from that point to the river, and even ladies joined in the line, passing back the empty pails. The movement for a city charter culminated in a public meeting, February i8, at which a draft of the proposed charter was submitted and adopted, and Harvey P. Yale was delegated to proceed with it to Lansing and lay it before the Legislature, by which body the city was incorporated April 2, i85o. The first annual ball of the firemen, February 22, put a new link in the chain of social life, and was set down in newspaper chronicles as "a very brilliant affair." The dam across the river was an obstacle to the upward passage of fish, which they had never before met. Consequently there was in this spring an unprecedented catch upon the rapids, of sturgeon, pickerel, bass, suckers, and other members of the finny tribe, to the great sport and profit of fishermen, with spears and nets. The river boats started in the latter part of March, with lively traffic. A crevasse occurred in the embankment between the guard gates and the east end of the dam, on the river side of the canal, about i50 feet of which was carried away, March 23, shutting down the machinery of the mills till the breach could be repaired. Two or three companies of gold-seekers left Grand Rapids for California about this time, but their places were more than filled by incomers who became residents. On Monday, May i, occurred the election, at the Bridge Street House, on the adoption of the city charter. The vote stood 252 for to 9I against, giving i6i majority for the charter. Under it the city was organized by the first election of municipal officers May I I, I85o, and the village of Grand Rapids became a thing of the past. VILLAGE LEGISLATION. The charter of the village of Grand Rapids instituted a Board of seven Trustees, who were empowered to elect a President, and these to be "a body corporate and politic under the name of The President and Trustees of the Village of Grand Rapids; to have a common seal; empowered to purchase, hold, sell and convey real estate for village purposes, and given generally all such powers of control and management over streets, fire and police and municipal affairs as are usually exercised by similar corporations." The charter also contained clauses regulatory of the manner of proceeding in the taking of property for street uses and the levy and collection of taxes for village uses. The first village election was was held at the court house, Monday, May i, I838, when the highest number of votes cast was 14I, for Louis Campau for Trustee. The first meeting of the Board to organize was held at the office of Charles I. Walker, May I4, i838, when Henry C. Smith was chosen President. Village bylaws were adopted May 2i. Among their provisions were prohibitions of horse racing, of discharging fire arms, and of ball alleys or gaming houses within the village; also of liquor selling at retail except by licensed tavern keepers. The first set of village officers were elected at this Board meeting. In June ditches were authorized, to drain the marsh in the region of Fountain, Greenwich (now Ionia), Division and Lyon VILLAGE LEGISLATION-SHINPLASTERS-TAXES 95 streets. Certain citizens were allowed to put a well at the Monroe street corner in Greenwich (Ionia) street, with a platform and pump. July io, six acres of ground were purchased, on credit, of James Ballard, for a cemetery-price $300-the beginning of the present Fulton Street Cemetery. An order was passed for the opening of Kent street to Monroe street-a proposed improvement that has never been consummated. In September the discovery was made that the village was bankrupt, having no funds, and corporation notes (one and two dollar bills) to the amount of $300 were issued. By resolution of the Board, these were made receivable for all taxes and dues to the corporation, and some of them remained in circulation eight or ten years. In May, 1839, after the second election, a committee was appointed to settle with ex-Treasurer Charles I. Walker, and reported that there had been no receipts, no taxes having been levied. The only payments into the Treasury were by corporation notes, of which the Treasurer had charged himself with $202, and credited himself with certain payments amounting to $143.69, leaving a balance due from him, which the committee reported was more than covered by his private account against the corporation. They also reported claims against the village of $350.52, and $i26 of corporation notes outstanding. On June 3, another report made it appear that the village was badly off financially, with bills against it aggregating $890.59. It was then "Resolved, that all that portion of the law passed by the former Board as to the issue of Shinplasters be and is hereby rescinded." What might be the effect of rescinding instead of repealing a law is a question which the lawyers of the Village Board appear not to have taken pains to consider. June 17 a tax levy of $500 was ordered, to defray current expenses. This appears to have been the beginning of village taxation; except a dog tax previously laid, and such taxes as were imposed for certain licenses. September 13, mention is made in the record of "the death of our Village Attorney, whose loss is to be regretted." That referred to Benjamin G. Bridge. George Martin was then appointed Attorney. The Board adjourned sine die, December 9 —no quorum present. In i840 there was an election, according to the record, at the "Grand Rapids Hotel," and in 184I an election at the "Grand River Exchange." Further as to 1840 the record saith not; except that there were new officers chosen. The first Board meeting in i841 was held at the Kent Book Store. In June, i841, a tax roll of $172.38 was made for Division street, and a grade for Monroe street was fixed. In August the Board of Trustees directed the Village Marshal not to receive more than one-half of any tax in village duebills or orders; for the rest he must exact good current money. The Treasurer was instructed to pay out no moneys "until further directed by this Board." But in October he was authorized to pay certain claims in full, and on all other demands properly allowed to "pay 25 per cent. till the money in the Treasury is exhausted." The first entry of 1842 in the village record, is that of the charter election, May 2, when, besides those for the regular candidates, one vote each, for Trustee, was cast for "Patent Gates," "Old Melvin," "Salt Borer," and "Gov. Ray." As to these the Judges formally declared the election void, because "they were not freeholders within the corporation." The Board was a roving institution about that time. It met June i I at Grand River Exchange, June 20 at Evans' store, October 10 and November 15 at "the Book Store." At the charter election in I843 the highest vote for any Trustee was 44 for Daniel Ball. The Board met at "the Book Store," and voted to pay the Assessors $3 each, in full for making out rolls; Street Commissioners "such pay as the Board shall think reasonable, not to exceed $i per day; the Marshal 212 per cent. on collections, and for other services not to exceed $i per day." In June George M. Mills was appointed by the Village Board an agent to sell "so many lots in the cemetery ground belonging to this corporation as shall be sufficient to pay up and liquidate all claims and judgments against said corporation." He was also authorized to take notes of purchasers, payable twelve months from date. There is no record of any election in 1844. Some amendments were made by the Board to the by-laws, and licenses were authorized: For retailing liquors, $20; for ball alley or gaming house, $25; for billiard table, $25; for hawkers or peddlers, $io. 96 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. In I845 the election was held at the Mansion House-date not recorded. The highest vote was I45, for John Almy for Trustee. On the license question the vote stood: License 94; no license 40. July 3, I845, the Board met at the office of Lucius Lyon. Canton Smith, Truman H. Lyon, and Charles Trompe, were licensed as tavern keepers. Lucius Lyon and Louis Campau were requested to have the "original patents" of the lands on which the village was situated recorded, at the expense of the corporation. At the charter election in the spring of I846 there was a turnabout on the license question, the vote standing: License, 44; no license, 97. In May the Board had a meeting at Peirce's store, and chose S. L. Withey Corporation Attorney. In the fall they met at Dr. Shepard's office. A contract was made with William Peaselee for a fire engine, price $325, corporation note running one year. Woodward & Burnett were engaged to build an engine house for $60. In February, 1847, the original note for $300 given for cemetery land was found to have grown, despite a $40 payment, to $375-35. It was ordered taken up and a new one given to John W. Squier & Co. March I3, I847; corporation scrip taken up, amounting with interest to $155.97, was ordered burned. As to what became of the rest of the issue of village shinplasters the record is silent. At the first meeting of the Board of Trustees after the election of i847, a statement was submitted showing a balance of indebtedness of $298.79, to settle which a tax was recommended. Robert I. Shoemaker was chosen Village Sexton. Board meetings this year were held at the office of the Clerk, Samuel R. Sanford. In January, 1848, petitions for a large amount of sidewalk making were sent to the Board-walks to be not less than three feet wide. The charter election of I848 was held at the Rathbun House, and there was another complete turnover on the license question, the vote standing: License, 80; no license, i i. A tax of three mills on the dollar was ordered by the Village Board. Tavern licenses were fixed at $io; victualers and grocers, $20; merchant liquors sellers, in quantities not less than a pint, $io. Edward E. Sargeant was elected Village Attorney. In June the canal basin was ordered cleaned. Daniel C. Moor did it for $20. In July the fire-engine note given to Peaselee was taken up and a new one given. In September a bell-ringer-IF. L. Walden-was hired to ring the Congregational Church bell three times a day for $50 a year. In October repair of Justice street, from Monroe street to Trompe's tavern, was ordered. In December the Village Trustees concluded that they wanted some pay, and voted themselves 50 cents for each monthly sitting and the same for each special meeting-very modest in comparison with present salary rates. In April, i849, the sidewalk four feet wide on the south side of Monroe street, was ordered continued past the Congregational church to Fulton street, and thence to the east side of Abram WV. Pike's lot. Orders in favor of George Coggeshall for $50 were ordered drawn, in advance, for sidewalk construction. The Marshal was instructed to procure a suitablle hook and ladder carriage, to cost not more than $25. Report was made by a committee to the Board that the Treasurer's accounts were found correct, and that he had "in his hand the sum of dollars." The charter election this spring was held May 7. On license the vote was a tie-57 to 57. The new Board met at the store of Sinclair & King, and continued the previous schedule of licenses. On June I a sidewalk was ordered on the southeast side of Waterloo street, from Faneuil Hall to Ball & Williams' storehouses. A petition asked that the stream entering Canal street just south of Backus Block, "which thereby creates a great nuisance," be directed into the gutter on Bronson street, so as to be conducted into the culvert on the north side of Franklin Block. The Street Commissioner was directed to inquire into the expediency of so doing. June 8, voted, "that licenses be issued to all applicants, and if it does not protect them, pay back the money." In July the Marshal was directed to procure and scatter through the village, 100oo barrels of lime, in behalf of the public health. The Board voted to refund money advanced by certain persons to buy a fire engine. In December, resolved, "That we except [sit'.] the fire engine of Mr. Snooks, and give him the corporation's note for $400, payable in one year, being the balance due." It was also resolved, "That we give to all persons VILLAGE OFFICERS FROM 1838 TO 1850. 97 that wish a corporation note, payable the first of September, I850, for the amount advanced for the Snooks engine," and that "if the young men or boys will form a fire company, they may have the use of the Peaselee engine." January io, i85o, the Trustees appointed Charles H. Taylor, Julius C. Abel, Alfred D. Rathbone, George Martin and Edward E. Sargeant, a committee to draft a city charter-the city to include Sections 19 and 30 in Town Seven North, of Range I I West, and Sections 24 and 25 in Town Seven North, of Range 2 \West. January 23, $150 was appropriated to procure fire hooks, ladders and carriage, for a hook and ladder company. February 28 the Board by vote recommended the passage of the city charter. May i, I85o, ends the village record with a statement of the vote of the electors adopting the city charter. The following is a list of the principal village officers from 1838 to I849, inclusive: Boards of Trustees-i838-Henry C. Smith, President; Louis Campau, Richard Godfroy, William A. Richmond, Charles I. Walker, George Coggeshall, James Watson. i839-George Coggeshall, President; Louis Campau, John Almy, Henry P. Bridge, Francis J. Higginson, William G. Henry, Henry C. Smith. 1840-John Almy, President; Antoine Campau, Charles Shepard, James M. Nelson, Josiah L. Wheeler, Samuel F. Perkins, Israel V. Harris. 1841 -John Almy, President; James M. Nelson, William G. Henry, Antoine Campau, Harvey K. Rose, Charles I. Walker, Samuel F. Butler. 1842 -John Almy, President; Samuel F. Butler, William G. Henry, James M. Nelson, Harvey K. Rose, Antoine Cam pau, Charles I. Walker. 1843-John Almy, President; Lucius Lyon, Daniel Ball, Charles H. Taylor, George Coggeshall, Julius C. Abel, George M. Mills. i844-The record contains no entry of any election this year, but at a Board meeting were present John Almy, President; Julius C. Abel, George M. Mills, Charles H. Taylor, George Coggeshall. In I845-Trustees elected failed to qualify, and the Board of the previous year held over. 1846 — William Peaselee, President; Harvey K. Rose, Charles Shepard, David Seymour, David Burnett, Zenas G. \Winsor, James M. Nelson. 1847 -George Coggeshall, President; Amos Rathbone, George C. Evans, William H. McConnell, William H. Godfroy, Boardman Noble, Kendall Woodward. 1848 — Geo. Coggeshall, President; Joshua Boyer, Thompson Sinclair, William Peaselee, William H. Godfroy, George Kendall, Abram W. Pike. I849 ---George Coggeshall, President; Harry Eaton, Luther N. Harmon, Heman Leonard, Thompson Sinclair, Solomon 0. Kingsbury, Julius C. Abel. Clerks —John W. Peirce, i838 to 1846; Samuel R. Sanford, 1847-48. Solomon 0. Kingsbury, 1849. Treasurers-Charles I. Walker, 1838; William G. Henry, 1839; Antoine Campau, i840-41; Samuel F. Butler, 1842; William G. Henry, 1843; Henry Seymour, i846; Amos Rathbone, I847; George Kendall, 1848; Harry Eaton, 1849. Marshals —Gideon Surprenant, 1838-39; William 0. Lyon, i840; William I. Blakely, 1841-42; Harry Dean, I843; George C. Evans, 1844; Jacob W. Winsor, 1846; Ira S. Hatch, 1847-48; Michael Connolly, 1849. CHAPTER X. ENTERPRISING PIONEERS —WHO SOME OF THEM WERE AND WHAT THEY DID. DARIUS WINSOR and family, who came with the pioneer colony to Ionia in i833, and down to the Rapids in the following year, were among those who gave impulse and vigor to the young settlement. Darius was the second Postmaster here, and served as a town officer for some years. Before coming he had been a victim of the hard eastern law of imprisonment for debt, hence had little capital to start with in these woods other than the stout hearts and sturdy energy of himself and his boys, Zenas G. and Jacob \V. Winsor. They built them a log house at Ionia, and were the first to transport household goods for the colonists by pole boats up Grand River from its mouth. A portion of their lumber for building at Ionia was carried in small boats from the Indian mission mill at Grand Rapids. ZENAS G. WINSOR was born in Skaneateles, N. Y., December I4, 1814; the oldest son of Darius and Sally Winsor (the former a native of Smithfield, R. I., and the latter of Pittstown, N. Y). He acquired a fair education in the common schools of his native State. In 1830, the business misfortunes of his father, under the old barbarous law of imprisonment for debt, threw upon him and a younger brother the burden of supporting the family, including five young children. For that he left school, engaged as clerk in a store, and was assistant to a physician during the prevalence of cholera among them in 1832. In the spring of I833 the family came with the Dexter colony to Ionia, and the next year to Grand Rapids, where the parents died in I855. Zenas was one of the first to transport lumber from Grand Rapids and goods from Grand Haven up the river to Ionia. As soon as they were fairly housed there, in the fall of i833, he came with the Territorial County Seat Commissioners as axman, and drove the stake to mark the site selected for the Kent County Court House. He then engaged with the pioneer fur trader, Rix Robinson, as clerk, and proceeded to Grand Haven to take charge of the trading post there, with three or four aids. That was then the headquarters of a large number of posts, ranged at convenient points between Kalamazoo on the south and Little Traverse Bay on the north. On his appearance among the Indians as a trader (after treating them with a gallon of was-ka-bogamirc, a drink compounded of acid and sugar, with a little whisky to preserve it, for Indian names must be paid for in those days), the Indians named him Clie-mno-kce-nmaness (young Englishman); but a little later changed it to No-ba-quon (ship or vessel) on account of a transaction they supposed him connected with on a small vessel at the dock. This change of name cost him two gallons of the beverage mentioned. After about a year he came up to the Rapids and erected a small store at the corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets, where Wilson's drug store now is, his employer having offered to stock it and share with him the profits. This enterprise fell through. He remained with Mr. Robinson some time longer at an increased salary, and then drifted into other walks of trade. In i836, with Edward P. Macy, a New York banker, he opened an exchange or brokerage at Ionia, where the land office had been located, and in that business, until the financial revulsion of the following year, made a marked success, exchanging currency for the numerous land buyers. In I838 he married Emily Hopkins, of Grand Rapids, who lived but eight months thereafter. In i840 he married Mrs. Hannah Tower, who died September 28, i869. He again married, in i874, Mrs. Anne M. Kilgore, his present at-:::;'^ ^^^ & ^,~^ I I I I -- 71 -1/1 & - -i '? r,(-/, -?, I t- t- '-')p -t -7- -' 11 Z PERSONAL SKETCHES OF EARLY RESIDENTS. 99 wife. At the organization of Plainfield, Kent county, he lived in that township, and was chosen its first Supervisor; also Justice of the Peace. Returning to Grand Rapids in I843 he became interested in a pail factory; then soon after in mercantile trade, in the Faneuil Hall block. With his brother Jacob W. he was also engaged in manufacturing and exporting lumber for several years. About i85o he built for a residence a stone house, considered in those days a very fine building, at the junction of Washington street and Jefferson avenue. In the following year he went to California, and spent nearly two years there, in Mexico, and further south. Returning, he engaged with Daniel Ball in the steamboating business on the river, which he followed until 1859, when he went to Pennsylvania, and there was for a time President and Manager of the Tioga County Bank. Again he returned to this city and engaged in the dry goods trade until I863, when he sold out and went to look after an investment in Nevada silver mines, which he soon discovered was lost. Next he engaged in trade-purchase and shipment of goods between New York and Grand Rapids. In i866 he operated in developing oil wells and the petroleum trade, in Canada, with only moderate profit. In i868 he engaged at Grand Haven in the storage, forwarding and commission business, in which he remained until about 1885, when he returned to Grand Rapids. Mr. Winsor has always been a busy man. He could never be idle. He would always be doing something, either on his own account or for somebody else-wide awake and ready to push things. Of temperate and regular habits, he is yet well preserved and active. Socially, he is genial and pleasant, and uniformly friendly; a gentleman for fifty-five years and more enjoying the good will and good wishes of everybody in this community, which he has delighted in calling his home, during all his business life. JACOB W. WINSOR was but a lad of i8 years when he came to Grand Rapids in I834. He was born at Skaneateles, N. Y., June ii, i8i6. He was the son of Darius and Sally Winsor, who came with the Dexter colony to Ionia in the spring of i833, to which place he also came in the same year. It is related that on his way he had purchased an Indian pony, and before arriving at his destination was one night beleaguered by wolves, whereupon he tied the pony and betook himself to a tree top until daylight, thus escaping the wolves but losing his pony. He was an energetic young man, and ready for almost any creditable adventure, turning his hand with alacrity to whatever work he could find to do. During the first three or four years here, he was engaged in the Indian trade, in the employ of others, and learned to speak the Indian language fluently. At the time of the great flood in the river, in the early part of I838, he, at much peril to himself, caught a flat-bottomed boat which came down with the ice, and by its use rescued a family from the upper part of a building that was surrounded by the raging waters at the foot of Huron street, further particulars of which gallant exploit are given elsewhere in this volume. In I844 he engaged in building, for himself, the Faneuil Hall block, yet standing above the head of Waterloo on Monroe street. With but little means, but indefatigable energy, he drew stone from the river, and in the following year completed a contract of which time was the essence, thereby holding his lot and the building. From that time onward through life he was ever the rough-and-ready, energetic, bustling, pushing citizen, known to all residents; outspoken in opinion, jocose, combative in action, putting on no airs, making no polished pretenses, yet tender and sympathetic, with open hand and charitable impulses. In partnership with his brother Zenas, the two had for some years an extensive business in trade and in lumbering. In i85i he erected a neat stone house for a residence, still standing, on Washington street. Several years later he removed and built another pretty house a little east of the city limits. Mr. Winsor had unbounded faith in the growth of Grand Rapids, and in the development of resources possessed, and attempts to develop others then supposed to exist, he invested boldly his means and his labor; often to meet with failure and disappointment, but opening lines of business afterward of benefit to others more sluggish and less adventurous. He married Nov. 27, i838, Miss Harriet Peck, also one of the pioneers. He died Dec. 26, i874, leaving a widow, two sons and three daughters. To the early development and later growth of this city, the labors of Mr. Winsor contributed no small share. - 100 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Barney Burton came in from Ypsilanti in j833. He was prominent in the township of Paris, where he improved an excellent farm, yet always seemed identified with this city, into which he moved and spent the closing years of his life, a respected, thoroughly upright and conscientious citizen. He was born in Greenfield, Saratoga county, N. Y., March i6, i807. Josiah Burton located two or three tracts of land, and settled on the east side of Division street; afterward lived on West Bridge street. These brothers both served the public acceptably in official positions. Eliphalet H. Turner was the first Clerk of the town of Kent (Grand Rapids). He settled a little southeast of the present city boundary; but soon moved in, and in I845-6 built him a home on Front street, near the head of the rapids-the first stone dwelling of note on the West side. He was a mechanic, assisted in erecting a number of the very early buildings on Monroe and Waterloo streets, and was associated with James Scribner in the erection of the first bridge across Grand River here. He was a sturdy yeoman of the old stamp, faithful to all trusts and duties. He died in 1870, aged 78 years. William R. Godwin settled in Wyoming, as did also the Gordons and Myron Roys. Ira Jones settled eventually on the west side of the river, near the Indian village, and there resided some forty years. Jonathan F. Chubb, soon after his arrival, took a farm in Wyoming, where he lived nearly twenty years; then moved into town and built him a stone residence on Front near Leonard street, where he spent the remainder of his life. He took an interest in manufacturing farming implements. He was a public spirited citizen of the early mould, almost puritanic in convictions, and thoroughly respected. Luther Lincoln came to the valley in I832, was a moving and somewhat eccentric character; first in Grandville, then in Grand Rapids building a mill, then up Flat River, where he was called "Trapper Lincoln." His longest residence was at or near Greenville, toward the close of his life. He is accredited with doing the first plowing on Grand River, and raising corn in I833, where the village of Grandville now stands. Nathaniel P. Roberts (who came in with Josiah Burton, Ira Jones and E. H. Turner in I833), settled on the west side, and resided there till his death in 187i, at the age of 74 years. He was a farmer, and a highly respected citizen. Of those who came in 1834, Robert M. Barr is living in the city, at the time of this writing, aged about 75. Ezra Reed, a most excellent pioneer citizen, settled by Reeds Lake in i834, afterward lived many years in the city, and died at Muskegon in June, i888, at the venerable age of 88 years. He was the first Sheriff of Kent county, elected in i836. Richard Godfroy, immediately after his arrival in i834, built a commodious dwelling on the south corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets; the same that was destroyed by fire in January, i85o, being a Catholic chapel at the latter date. He was also interested in boat building and river navigation. Mr. Godfroy lived to a good old age, and died at Muskegon. Joseph S. Potter was among the first builders, and erected the Eagle hotel in I834. Ezekiel W. Davis lived a little time in a log cabin here, planted some corn near the corner of Ottawa and Fountain streets, moved to a farm at Reeds Lake, where he was the first settler, lived there about thirty years, then moved into town where he died in I873. Antoine Campau began trade at the foot of Monroe street in 1834. He afterward built a residence on the south side of Monroe street, a short distance above the Waterloo corner, and lived there till about i845, when he went upon his farm on South Division street. He was a man of fine presence, over six feet in stature, straight and erect, of noble carriage, manly and affable toward high and low, of sterling integrity, kind and courteous always, humane and sympathetic, and scrupulously punctual and exact in all lis business affairs. This is high praise, but fully merited. He had the entire confidence of the Indians, with whom he dealt largely. It was said that he was the first born white at Saginaw. He came here in I833, and moved here with his family a year later. Robert Howlett and the Wanseys settled outside the village; the Reeds near the lake which bears their name; the Sliters, Sibleys and Grays, and Cyrus Jones near by; others in Paris or near Grandville, and Martin PERSONAL SKETCHES OF EARLY RESIDENTS. 101 Ryerson, who came as a clerk with Richard Godfroy, later in life became wealthy at Muskegon and Chicago. Of the settlers in I835 a few are yet living-among them Jefferson Morrison, Dr. Charles Shepard and Amos Hosford Smith. Jefferson Morrison, Dwight and James Lyman and A. Hosford Smith were among the first merchants, located for a time on Waterloo street. Jefferson Morrison, not long after coming, established himself at the foot of Monroe street, in buildings since removed, that stood on what is now Campau Place, and continued in trade there, with but a brief intermission, till 1866, when he retired from business. He had a checkered experience, sometimes successful, both in trade and speculation, and again the victim of reverses. He was born at Milton, Saratoga county, N. Y., July i5, 1805, came to Detroit in i834 and there, in i836, married Caroline Gill, whom he brought to his Grand Rapids home, making part of the journey in canoes from Middleville down the Thornapple River. He had entered the land and platted the villages of Saranac in Ionia county and Cascade in Kent county. His first wife died about twelve years later, and in i85o he married Wealthy M. Davis. Five children by each were the fruits of these marital unions. In his earlier business life he had an extensive acquaintance and trade with the Indians, who named him Poc-to-go-ne-ne. His name and credit were known and trusted throughout the State in the dark days wlhen banks broke and when he, with many others, was compelled to resort to the issue of personal notes, or "shinplasters," to keep trade alive. In I836 he was elected the first Probate Judge of Kent county. And now, at upward of fourscore years, retired from the turmoil of business, he lives in the quiet enjoyment of reminiscences of a long and busy life, and the respect and kindest wishes of his multitude of warm friends and fellow citizens. James Lyman and Dwight Lyman, brothers, opened a small store on Waterloo street, opposite the Eagle Hotel, in i835. They came from Connecticut. In the following year they sold the store to George C. Nelson. The Lymans built or were interested in a mill which for nearly forty years stood on Coldbrook, just below where now is the water works settling basin. In I844, James married and resumed trade, soon sold out, spent some years at Kenosha, Wis., then returned to business here. He died in 1869, enjoying the love and esteem of the community as a thoroughly upright, conservative citizen, neighbor and business man. In I838 James Lyman, with John Almy and another, had charge of a survey of Grand River, in which they ran levels from Lyons, or above, on the ice, to Grand Haven, ascertaining the amount of fall at various points. Hiram Hinsdill lived in the summer of I835 in a log house on Pearl street, near where the Arcade is, meantime engaged in building the hotel afterward known as the National. He lived a quiet life and is remembered with much affection by early residents. Joseph Marion was a carpenter and joiner and pattern maker, and an excellent workman at his craft. He lived here many years, and finally went West. Lucius Lyon is chronicled as a settler of I835. He was born at Shelburne, Vt., February 26, i800oo. Some of his ancestors were among the original settlers of New Haven, Conn. He was educated in the common schools of his native town, and studied engineering and land surveying in Burlington, Vt. At the age of twenty-two he went to Detroit, and was soon after appointed a deputy by the United States Surveyor-General in the district northwest of the Ohio River. He filled that position till 1832, and in I831 surveyed Town 7 North, Range 12 West, in which is now part of the city of Grand Rapids. While engaged in this work he received notice that he was elected Delegate to Congress from the Territory of Michigan. He accepted, and served the term from 1833 to I835. He was also elected a member of the convention which framed the first Constitution of Michigan, and influential in the adoption of the provisions relating to the common school lands, and the funds arising therefrom. After the admission of the State into the Union he was chosen by the first Legislature a Senator in Congress. He served in the Senate till 1839, when he came to Grand Rapids, then a village, he having large property interests here. He immediately engaged in efforts to develop and establish salt manufacture, sinking the first 102 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. salt well here, and for a few years he made the enterprise apparently successful. In I842 he was elected to Congress from this District, as a Democrat. At the close of his term he was appointed United States Surveyor-General for Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. The office was located at Detroit at his request, and he filled that position until his death, which occurred in I85I. Mr. Lyon is characterized by one of his biographers, who knew him well, as not a brilliant man nor quick in mental action, but patient, careful and scrutinizing, generally arriving at correct conclusions and practical applications. Though unpretentious, quiet and modest, he wielded great influence, and achieved much for his State, and his town. He was amiable in disposition, benevolent and religious in his impulses, and in the later years of his life strongly attached to the Swedenborgian faith. Politically he was a Democrat. He never married; his housekeeping being superintended by a maiden sister, who survives him. Lucius Lyon left his mark upon the early enterprise of Grand Rapids, and gave a powerful impetus to the growth of this town and the State. Nathaniel 0. Sargeant was the contractor for digging the mill-race, and had an interest therein-the beginning of the east side canal. He came here from Massachusetts, in 1835, with a company of men for that work. They marched in with their picks and shovels on their shoulders. At their head was Alanson Cramton, playing a bugle. Cramton was a teamster, stage driver and mail carrier, and assisted many pioneers over the rough roads. He afterward settled in Ada and became a thriving farmer in that town. At 79 years of age he is yet hale and hearty. Hearing the noise and the music, when the canal men came, Chief Noonday thought the company were enemies, meaning mischief to Louis Campau, and sent a message to the latter, offering aid to drive the invaders away. Among the men in this company was also Leonard G. Baxter, from Montpelier, Vt., who settled here, married Emily Guild, and spent his life in the city and in the country near by. He died in I866. The coming of these men for that work marked an important era in the improvement and development of the place. Mr. Sargeant died a year or two after he came. John Almy and wife came with the Kent company, in I835. He was a native of Rhode Island, a finely educated man, a civil engineer and practical surveyor of eminence. He platted for Lucius Lyon and N. 0. Sargeant the "Village of Kent," in which Charles H. Carroll afterward purchased a half interest. Mrs. Almy, in a journal kept by her in I835, gives some account of their journey in here. Here is an extract: Night brought us to the Thornapple, and it being late, and very dark, we dared not go on for fear we should fall into the river. We saw, near by, some camp-fires of Indians, but going to them, they fled, and we could not get near them; so we camped out as well as we could, and spent the night with nothing to eat. As soon as daylight appeared, we commenced our march, and crossing the Thornapple, met Rix Robinson and the chiefs, who were coming to see us, and what kind of people we were. Mr. Robinson explained to them that we were friends, and going to build a big town down at Grand Rapids. Here we were furnished breakfast-pork and potatoes, bread and tea, with wild honey (considered an extra dish), with short-cake; and did we not do justice to that meal? After settling our bills, we proceeded on our journey, and having Plaster Creek and several other streams to bridge, we were the whole day until late at night in getting to Grand Rapids. Mr. Richard Godfroy and Mr. Louis Campau gave us quarters in their respective homes. The next day the woods rang out with the echo of the woodman's ax, slaying down trees to build shanties with, and all was bustle and business. It did not take long to get settled, and then commenced the work of laying out the canal. Mr. Almy soon found it necessary to return to Detroit, which was no easy matter, and I concluded to go, too. Mr. Richard Godfroy sent his Frenchman with a lumber wagon, to take us. We were ten days going. While in Detroit Mr. Almy bought a steamboat, and friends named her the "John Almy." She was loaded with pork, flour, mill-stones, and many other useful articles, to be landed at Grand Rapids. The boat left about April i, and had very rough weather, and as she neared Thunder Bay she was wrecked-a total loss. Mr. Almy about two years later was in charge of the improvement of the Grand and Kalamazoo Rivers. He held during his life many important positions of official trust, was a lawyer by profession, and a trusty counselor,but did not practice law after coming to Michigan. He was of fine physical form, a representative gentleman of the early days, genial, courteous, hospitable, and beloved by all with whom he came in contact. He was very methodical and exact in his business, and a scientific man of much general information. He died September 29, 1863, leaving a memory fondly cherished by all PERSONAL SKETCHES OF EARLY RESIDENTS. 103 the early residents of the valley. In religious sentiment he was an Episcopalian. Among the comers of i835, was Amos Hosford Smith, who with Simeon P. Smith, B. Walter Smith and Edward P. Camp, left New York City in November, I835, and arrived here December 2. They came by the Erie Canal to Buffalo, where they were detained for a time by a great gale; and came up Lake Erie on the steamer North America to Monroe, from which place they proceeded on horseback. Not being used to riding, they found it rather tough work, over hard roads and mud-holes, nevertheless they hal a merry time. Camp's horse was a tumbler, and pitched the rider over his head several times. On the way they met Orson Peck, with whom Camp traded horses. (Peck was a peddler, and in later years lived here and at Lowell). At Gull Prairie they found snow, left two of the horses, procured sleighs, and engaged Robert Scales to pilot them through. At the Thornapple, December i, they found the stream frozen over, cut brush and laid it upon the ice, and thus contrived to push their sleighs across. They cut a channel through the ice for the horses, and called to a Mr. Jackson who lived on the other side. Jackson went over to ride one horse and let the other follow. The rear horse plunged, and went over Jackson's horse, and the latter turned and went back. They finally got across, and as the weather was piercing cold, they ran the horses to Edward Robinson's at the mouth of the Thornapple, where they found warm stabling, a good fire in the house, and had a supper of venison, which the hungry men declared the best meal they ever ate. They spread robes on the floor and camped with feet to the fire, rose refreshed, and arrived at Joel Guild's at Grand Rapids the next afternoon. Here Mr. Smith was- so well pleased with the embryo town, that he decided to stay, and opened a store near the Eagle Hotel on Waterloo street. He has been a busy man through life; was an accomplished bookkeeper, and engaged as such most of the time for about twenty-five years after coming here. In the summer of I85o he was Captain of the steamboat Algoma on Grand River. He was the second City Clerk, elected in i85I. In i862 he was appointed Assistant Assessor of Internal Revenue, and in that capacity served about ten years, and afterward about fifteen years as Deputy Collector, making about twenty-five years of continuous service as an Internal Revenue officer. He was vestryman and, clerk of the vestry of St. Mark's Episcopal church for 17 years. In i836 he started the first Sunday School in Grand Rapids, over his store, one. of the beginnings of the First Congregational Society. He married, in 1839, Mary M. Nelson, who died in I887, in this city, Mr. Smith is a native of Berlin, Connecticut, born March 30, I812. At this writing he is yet alive, a venerable and honored citizen. The Rev. Andreas Viszoczky came in 1835, and for seventeen years was pastor of the Roman Catholic Church here. He was a profound scholar, a native of Hungary, educated at the Catholic institutions of learning in that country. His ministry here was one of indefatigable devotion, and great success. He was always faithful,'through sunshine and storm, to the duties of his position, constant in his attentions to the poor, to the sick and dying, and always caring for the highest and holiest interests of his Christian office. He was especially zealous and faithful in his ministrations to the Indians under his charge, at their village here, and in the region within forty miles about. He died in i852, at the age of sixty years, having lived to see the erection of a handsome stone edifice for his church, on the south corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets. William G. Henry came to Grand Rapids in 1836, was the second Village Treasurer, a merchant, a druggist, and an enterprising citizen. He moved to Detroit about twentyfive years ago. Samuel HI-owland, who came in I836, was a carpenter by trade, and lived for many years on Lyon street, where now is the Houseman Block. Myron Hinsdill came from Hinesburgh, Vermont, in I833, to Gull Prairie, and in journeying by team from Detroit with his family had the usual experience of those days in jolting over corduroy roads and prying the wagon out of mud-holes. Three years later they came to Grand Rapids, and lived for a little time in a new barn just in the rear of the National Hotel, while the latter was building, and moved into that as soon as a few rooms could be prepared. On the opposite corner was kept a primitive 104 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. school, in a barn built of boards set up endwise, floor of rough boards loosely laid down, and needing no particular attention to secure good ventilation. Here his daughter, now the widow of the late Judge Withey, relates that she had her first struggle with Webster's spelling book. In April, i836, Mr. Hinsdill wrote to a brother-in-law at the East: I have applied for five lots of pine land up Grand River, but there is such a press of business at the Land Office, one cannot know under six or eight days whether he can get it or not; and if two ask for the same land in one day, they must agree which shall have it, as it is set up at auction. There have been four or five hundred people at Bronson for the week past, all waiting to get lands. If I get the pine land it will cost about $2.25 per acre, and a great bargain at that. If land buyers increase as we have reason to expect when navigation opens, there will not be a good lot in the Territory at Congress prices, and then I see no good reason why land will not be worth $io per acre. In another letter, written the following winter, Mr. Hinsdill says: We have two schools in our house; one instructed by my sister who came out here last fall, the other by Mr. Smith of your village (Cazenovia, N. Y). We have had from eight to ten boarders all winter, on the temperance plan in full, and have most of the good custom. Property has advanced one-third or more since you were here, so much I think people are crazy. Society has improved very much. A Presbyterian church was formed last October with twenty-two members, and ten added since, and we have as talented a society of young men as can be found in your state. Provision is very high: Flour $I5 per barrel, oats $i, potatoes $1.25, pork $14 per hundred, butter 37'2 cents, and other things in proportion; board $4.50; cash plenty, most of it paid out for land. I have had more silver and gold in my house this winter than a pair of horses could draw. The church spoken of by Mr. Hinsdill, afterward became the First Congregational church of Grand Rapids. Mrs. Withey relates: In February, I838, great anxiety was felt on account of the ice in the river. One evening, just in the midst of a spirited debate in the Lyceum, came a cry of alarm. Every one started to the scene of trouble. It was an anxious night, followed by an exciting day. At midday the ice in a vast body began to move, and piled up in a solid mass twenty to thirty feet high, forcing the water suddenly back on the little town, so that many barely escaped with their lives. The Almy and Page families were taken from their houses in boats. Mrs. Almy was brought to our house very much excited after her narrow escape. The whole scene, accompanied as it was with a heavy rumbling sound and the rushing of the water, is spoken of by witnesses as grand and aweinspiring beyond description. Myron Hinsdill lived but a short time after this. He died November 17, i838, of bilious fever, aged 39, and his remains rest in Fulton street cemetery. There were several pioneer families of the Hinsdills, prominent in society, and all highly respected and loved. Isaac Turner was a native of Clinton county, New York, and came from Plattsburgh to Grand Rapids in i836,with his family. He tarried for a brief time on the east side of the river, and then moved across, making a pre-emption claim on the mission land south of Bridge street; supposing that eventually it would be put in market the same as other public lands by the Government. He lived for many years in a small house pleasantly situated a short distance above where now is the west end of Pearl street bridge. He was an excellent millwright, and his handiwork contributed to the erection of many of the earlier mills in this vicinity, and on Muskegon River. In early life he was a Whig, then a Republican, and in religious matters became a firm believer in Spiritualism. He was enthusiastic, earnest and aggressive in support of his convictions politically and otherwise. He did much, officially, in the early development of the city. A hater of hypocrisy, a contemner of shams, and a citizen of thorough integrity, Isaac Turner was loved and prized as a neighbor, and as a man respected and trusted. He died in 1879 at the age of 78 years. Maxime and John Ringuette, brothers, among the settlers of I836, were shoemakers by trade. At first there was not custom enough to give them steady employment, and in summer they were engaged on the river, one of them running a pole boat, and in such other work as they could find, working at their trade in winter. John Ringuette died many years ago. They were steady-going, honorable people, and wellknown to the boot and shoe trade on Monroe street for a long time. Maxime Ringuette resides on South Division street, and is nearing the end of a well-spent life amid many appreciative friends. Samuel F. Perkins, also in the shoe and leather business, came here in' I836. He operated a tannery, and was for some time in trade on Kent street, and afterward with William Woodward on Monroe street. Amos Rathbone was born in Scipio, N.Y., PERSONAL SKETCHES OF EARLY RESIDENTS. 105 October 14, i8o8, and was among the pioneers of Grand Rapids. He visited here about i836, and purchased two lots on Prospect Hill, next to Lyon street, for which he paid $400; afterward for two or three years he spent a portion of the time in Indiana. In i839, provisions being scarce here, he loaded a wagon and came through with seven yoke of oxen, and also brought with him fifty head of cattle and half a dozen horses, and he continued in similar traffic between this place and Indiana two or three years. About i842, with Gouverneur B. Rathbun, he opened a store on Monroe street, opposite the head of Waterloo street, and in the following year they built a stone block on the north corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets, of size sufficient for three or four stores, for many years familiarly known as the Rathbone Building, or "The Wedge." At that time this building was thought too costly and rhassive to ever pay a profit. It was burned in the great fire of 1857, and in its place stands a fine brick block. For many years he was extensively engaged in the lumber trade north of this river. In i868 and until I88o he was financially interested in the plaster business. IHe also built twelve stores on the north side of Monroe street, below Division. Mr. Rathbone died in i882, venerable in years, and very few, if any, have left a deeper impress upon the growth and development of this city. He married, in i845, Amanda Carver, born in Scipio, N. Y., in 181o, who survives him. He was a man of strong convictions and upright character, with whom to say was to do. He was prominently and actively identified with the growth of the city and the development of its material resources during almost half a century. Henry C. Smith was born in Scituate, Rhode Island, January 9, I804, came to Grand Rapids in i836, was in trade in the little village for a few years at the corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets, and afterward lived for about a quarter of a century in Plainfield. He was the first President of the Village of Grand Rapids, in I838. In Plainfield he filled several offices of responsibility and trust, and was a member of the State Legislature in I849. He returned to the city about i868, and lived here until he died in I886. He was well and widely known and respected in this valley, through all his active life; a plain man, good neighbor and friend, trusty everywhere and at all times. His widow, "Aunt Jane Smith," resides on South Division street, where she owns a comfortable home. John W. Peirce came here in I836, from Canandaigua, N. Y., and opened a book and stationery store in one of the two buildings erected by the Kent Company, when it was expected that the Government Land Office would be located here. That book store (mate to the Grand River Bank building) was where the engine house now is, at the corner of Kent street and Crescent avenue. In i844 he removed his business to the west side of Canal street, corner of JOHN W. PEIRCE. Erie, where he remained in mercantile trade thirty years. In I853 he built the first brick store on Canal street, a handsome building, for the front of which he imported cream colored brick from Milwaukee, the first importation here of that sort. While there he suffered two or three severe losses by fire, in spite of which he accumulated a fair competence, and erected the pleasant dwelling, where his widow lives, at the corner of Ottawa street and Crescent avenue. He was Secretary of the original Grand Rapids Lyceum from i837 to i844, and Village Clerk from I838 till I845. He filled several important places of trust, and was interested in various business corporations. John W. Peirce was a plain, unostentatious citizen, eminently practical in his 106 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. views, always genial, and with such a flow of spirits and ready wit as made him a welcome guest in every circle. He married, in I84I, Sarah L., daughter of Amos Roberts, who survives him. They had three children. He was an original subscriber to the Episcopal Church when it was organized, and its constant attendant through life. He was precise and regular in his habits and scrupulously methodical in the keeping of his books, papers, files and records. Honest in his business, a kind and neighborly citizen, he left a good name and pleasant memory. Lovell Moore was born at Shirley, Mass., March 23, I797. He came to Michigan in I83I, and to Grand Rapids in the fall of i836, and at first occupied the old Baptist Mission House. He opened a law office on Monroe street, passing to and fro between his home and business by means of a canoe for crossing the river. He was a conspicuous figure in the courts of the early days; of ready speech, genial and buoyant in disposition, also eminently sociable and companionable in society. In i840 he removed to the southeast corner of Fulton and Divission streets into one of the very early frame houses that has recently been removed to make place for a massive and modern brick structure. In i843 he was engaged in the drug trade. He was possessed of good business capacity; as a lawyer was a prudent counselor; a man of integrity, appreciated and beloved in his family and by a very large circle of friends. In politics he was in early life a Whig; afterward a member of the "Free Democratic" party, by which, February 22, i854, he was nominated for Secretary of State. In later life he was a Democrat. He was a member of St. Mark's Episcopal church, and prominent among its early patrons. He was also an honored member of the Masonic fraternity during nearly all of his adult life. He resided here nearly fifty years, participated in the early struggles, aided in the development, and lived to share in the successes of the city, and died peacefully at a venerable age in I882. At his funeral were present nearly three hundred visiting Freemasons from all parts of Michigan. Charles H. Taylor, born in Cooperstown, N. Y., November 20, I813, came to Grand Rapids in i836, when there were less than twenty houses in the place, and was a resi dent until his death in i889. He served as County Clerk, Member of the Legislature, Asylum Commissioner, Secretary of State, Register of the U. S. Land Office in the northern part of this peninsula, Postmaster under President Johnson, and for many years was a newspaper editor. He was also a prominent, enterprising business man, in trade and in manufacturing enterprises; active, energetic and persevering until he went down to his last sleep, loved and respected by the community in which he had dwelt more than half a century. He had marked characteristics, and many excellent traits of character. David Burnett was born in South Hadley, Mass., September 14, i8o8, and came to Michigan in I836. For more than thirty years he was one of the prominent and active business mechanics of this place. He was the foreman for James Scribner, and Eliphalet H. Turner, in the building of the first bridge at Bridge street across Grand River in I845. He built the second and third bridges at the same place on the same piers, all now superseded by a substantial iron one. Among other structures erected by him were the following: The bridge across Grand River at Lyons in I837. Rebuilt the same in i843, and received in part payment 2,000 acres of State improvement land. The log tavern known as the "Fisk or Lake House," in the winter of I837. In I838 and I839, in company with Nathaniel Fisk and Jacob Rogers of Milwaukee, six light-houses on Lake Michigan. The bridge at Ionia, in i847; the stone Union school house, in i849; the first dam in this city the same year; the bridge at Plainfield, in i85o; the dam at Newaygo, in 1853; the dam at Rogers' Ferry, on the Muskegon, in I864, and the bridge at Bridgeton, in i866; the bridges on forty miles of the G. R. & I. R. R., in I868; the bridge at Big Rapids in I870; besides other dams and bridges. During his business career he always had some prominent job of building on hand, either in the city or the country about, and was in the front rank among the energetic master builders of this region. He was a thoroughly upright citizen, plain of speech, reliable always, kind and obliging, and one highly esteemed by the entire community. He died in I875. Kendall Woodward, who came here in I836, was a mechanic, an architect and PERSONAL SKETCHES OF EARLY RESIDENTS. 107 builder, and was in trade for some years near the foot of Pearl and Monroe streets. He died many years ago. James Scribner, a native of New York City, born in I8oi, came to Grand Rapids in the winter of 1836-37, and pre-empted land, which he subsequently purchased, where now is what is known as Scribner's Addition, or the Scribner Plat, on the west side of the river. He was a conspicuous and somewhat eccentric character upon these streets for many years; always had several irons in the fire, and was engaged in pushing some important enterprise, sometimes failing and sometimes successful. He invented a patent medicine which he called Oak Oil. He was one of the leading men in the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad project, which he did not live to see consummated. He was also connected with the efforts to establish the manufacture of salt, which for a time seemed likely to succeed, but eventually proved unprofitable and was abandoned. He was a jolly and saucy friend, but an implacable enemy. He believed in his Oak Oil, in his city lots, in his railroad enterprises, in salt, and in himself. He was a bustling pioneer, rough and ready and alive, who made his presence known when he was about, and did a good part in the development of the town. Mr. Scribner died in 1862, leaving a warm place in the hearts of a wide circle of friends. Thomas Sargeant was a plain, outspoken, aggressive man, from Boston,warm-hearted, stirring and good natured, hard-working; without other capital than a good team, and he left his mark in many parts' of the city where there was terracing or grading to be done. He was a brother of Nathaniel Sargeant, who began the Canal improvement. Solomon Withey came to Grand Rapids from Vermont, and for a time was landlord of the Grand River Exchange, subsequently named Bridge Street House. The first year or two he lived at the north end of Ottawa, next to Coldbrook street, where he made brick. Was elected Sheriff in I842. After a few years he moved to Ada, where he died in I85I, aged 74 years. He was a man of character-set in his ways, with positive likes and dislikes, bluntly outspoken, yet was universally esteemed and admired. Billius Stocking came to this place from St. Lawrence county, N. Y., in I834 (on foot from Kalamazoo); made but a short stay, when he left on foot for St. Joseph and Chicago, thence returning to his early home. In the fall of I836 he started again for Grand Rapids, coming by water to Fairport, below Cleveland, and walking the rest of the way. He chopped wood and split rails during his first winter here. In i840 he purchased the northeast quarter of section twenty-three in Walker, now within the city limits, where he has since resided. He and his brother ran, without compass, the line for the road which is now Stocking Street. He has been prominent in the development of that part of the city, has held a number of offices of trust and responsibility, and at this writing, though over eighty years of age, apparently has years to live. Mr. Stocking and his wife, who was Mary Hunt, were the first couple married here by the Rev. James Ballard. Loren M. Page was a painter by trade, came here in I837 from Vermont, and fol LOREN M. I'AGE. lowed that occupation throughout his long life, which was one of incessant labor; indeed he was never happy without work. An unpretentious, companionable, and socially agreeable man, he had a warm place in the hearts of all who knew him, comprising almost the entire community in which he lived for fifty years. Robert Hilton-characterized by one of our local writers as "a stanch-made, 108 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. thorough-rigged, live-oak individual, with several knots and branches on him "-was born in Mt. Vernon, Maine, December 2, I799. Coming to Grand Rapids in I836, a carpenter by trade, he first selected a piece of land for a farm, on the right bank of the river, some miles below the Rapids. He paid $2 per bushel for seed wheat, bringing it from Gull Prairie, and when he harvested his crop it would only bring 50 cents per bushel. While on the farm he worked much of the time in the village at his trade, coming and returning by canoe on the river; also superintended the erection of the lighthouse at Grand Haven, going down in the morning and returning in the evening by steamer. There were many Indians about him, but as at rule they were friendly. An incident illustrating his quickness in judging of savage human nature is related. Coming home one day he found a dog worrying his pigs, and near by an Indian leaning upon his gun, and watching the animals. Hilton leaped from his horse, seized that gun, shot the dog, and handed the weapon back, with the simple, terse remark in the native's own language, "Bad Indian," remounted and rode away without another word. That Indian never troubled him again, but seemed to admire his Yankee courage. After a few years he moved into Grand Rapids, where he resided until his death in i885. Some of his first work in this town was on the old National Hotel and on Judge Morrison's house. He built for the Nelson Brothers a building of two stores where now is the Grinnell Block. He was also the master workman in the erection of the Swedenborgian Church, still standing on the corner of Division and Lyon streets, just north of the United States building; also on the woodwork of the Catholic Church where the Grand Rapids National Bank now stands; also St. Mary's (Catholic) on the west side, a Gothic structure. He was noted for his sturdy and exact honesty, and liked those about him in proportion as they exhibited similar characteristics. He lived without fear or favor of any one, conscientiously fulfilling all trusts, holding the perfect confidence of all who knew him. He was a plain, frugal man, a steadfast friend, and acquired a fair competence for his declining years, untainted by speculation or exaction in any form. Jacob Barns came here when a boy, in I836, from Vermont, with his father's (Jacob Barns') family, and settled on Division street, a little north of Fountain. He learned the printer's trade, and is pleasantly remembered as for many years connected with the Grand Rapids Enquir/er and the Detroit Free Press. Under the administration of President Buchanan he was Register of the Land Office at Duncan and Traverse City. In later life he was connected with the flouring business in the Valley City Mills just above Bridge street. Misfortune left him in straightened circumstances near the close of his life. He died in 1883. He was for forty years a prominent citizen, of sterling integrity, active, enterprising, generous-hearted, genial, and by all highly esteemed. His father, Jacob Barns, Sen.. was one of the early Justices of the Peace here. Canton Smith came from Rhode Island, kept the Eagle a short time, and then purchased the National Hotel. As a landlord, and in connection with that locality, he was a prominent figure among the early residents, well known, and having many friends throughout the State. Harry Dean was born at Westfield, Mass., February 6, 1799; came to Grand Rapids in I837, and lived here till i88o. He is remembered as quiet, unobtrusive, but eminently social, pleasant in conversation, delighting in story telling, and of a cheerful and sunny disposition. He was made a Master Mason in Champion Lodge, Jefferson county, N. Y., in i821, and in after life passed through the higher degrees of that fraternity. He was a charter member of Grand River Lodge, No. 34, instituted in I849, and the last survivor of its original officers. At the time of his death in I887, he was said to be the oldest Mason in Michigan. John Pannell came here in I836, and established a small brewery, the first in the place, which he sold about a dozen years later, and retired to a quiet life of farming and gardening. He died in this city but a few months ago, aged 82 years. William Haldane, still a resident of this city, was among the pioneer cabinet-makers here. He came in I836, and in I837 built a frame dwelling on Prospect Hill, southeast corner of Ottawa and Pearl streets. Subsequently he erected a brick house on the same spot, which has twice been PERSONAL SKETCHES OF EARLY RESIDENTS. 109 extended downward, on account of street excavations through the hill. The brick building is still there. Mr. Haldane is well known and respected by all the old residents. Harry Eaton was bred a farmer in Vermont, came here in I836, engaged in mercantile trade and lumbering. He was Sheriff of Kent county in I84I, and was the first Treasurer of Walker Township. He was also one of the charter members of Grand River Lodge, No. 34, F. and A. M., and at his death, in I859, his funeral was attended by the Grand Lodge of Masons, then in session here. He is pleasantly remembered by the early residents, as a genial and entertaining host, at a neat little grocery and restaurant, which stood where now is the north end of Sweet's Hotel Block. Louis Moran came here as a clerk for Louis Campau in I833, staid but a short time and went up the Thornapple River, where for a while he kept the tavern at Scales's Prairie, near Middleville. He came back to Grand Rapids in i837, and was landlord of the Eagle Hotel. He was made comparatively poor by the financial crash of I837, and for many years thereafter drove team as proudly as ever he hired others to drive for him. Moran was a man of powerful frame, over six feet tall, erect and selfpoised, honest, and had almost unbounded faith inhuman honesty. "How much does your load come to?" he would ask of the farmer of whom he purchased a load of hay. Receiving a reply, he would throw down a handful of money, with the remark, "Count it out," after which he would carefully put the rest in his pocket, in full confidence that the farmer had counted it correctly. Late in life he received the use of the proceeds of some valuable property in Detroit, part of his father's estate, which enabled him to live in quiet and comfort thereafter. Few men among the pioneers had more or warmer friends than Louis Moran. George M. Mills and Warren P. Mills came in I836, from Ogdensburg, N. Y., and were in business about a dozen years in the vicinity of the corner of Pearl and Canal streets. One of them built a little one-story store on Pearl street, west of the Arcade, first a grocery, and later the shop where E. G. Squiers and W. D. Foster began work at the tinsmith business in this place; afterward occupied by Foster and Parry. The building disappeared many years ago, giving place to more imposing structures. George M. Mills built a small, neat residence on the side of Prospect Hill, a little further east, lived there a few years, and about 1854 emigrated to Nebraska. He died in I878. Warren P. Mills, in i856, built a handsome brick residence on Madison avenue. He was a jovial, fat, rollicking, fun-loving person, who was very popular with "Young America," and withal was an enterprising, public-spirited citizen. He died in i868, aged 56 years. Abel Page came in I836, and engaged here in agriculture and horticulture. He planted the first nursery of any pretensions ABEL. PAGE. in this valley, and for years supplied settlers with grafted fruits and rare plants. He was an honest and very pleasant gentleman, and prominent in the establishment of the Congregational church here. The closing years of his life were spent in a pretty suburban home near the north line of the city on the Plainfield road. James M. Nelson, born in Milford, Mass., November 27, I8Io, came here in i836, and made the place his home during life, about fifty years. His first business was in a store opposite the Eagle Hotel. Afterward he was engaged quite extensively in lumbering. With H. P. Bridge he built the first saw mill on the canal. His brother, Geo. C. Nelson, was his partner until i845, and together they built, in i837, a saw mill on Mill Creek, a few miles north of the Rapids 110 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. and west of the river, the first mill in that region. In the winter of I837-38, when provisions were scarce, James M. Nelson went to Indiana in search of hogs, purchased two hundred and eighty, and drove them home, where they were gladly received by the very hungry people. Near the same time he started with five others to explore the Muskegon River region. The snow was deep, and they were gone several days, lost their way, and were thirty-six hours without food before reaching home. Mr. Nelson was among the first to raft lumber down Grand River. From 184i he served as Postmaster for one term. About i859 he went out of the lumbering business, and engaged in flouring. Four years later, he again changed his business, buying with his brother, Ezra T. Nelson, a half interest in the Comstock furniture factory, and operated as a manufacturer during the remainder of his life. Mr. Nelson was a strictly and thoroughly honest man, one of the "representative self-made men" of this place, who, by his enterprise, integrity and industry commanded the esteem of this community wherein the greater part of his life was spent. He was a member of the St. Marks Episcopal church, and influential in its councils until his death, which occurred in I883. George C. Nelson is still in business on Monroe street, well advanced in years. Samuel F. Butler was one of the early cabinetmakers here, residing first on Kent street, afterward on Canal, north of Bridge street, a highly respected citizen. He suddenly dropped dead, April 3, I856, as he was passing through the front gate to his residence. Truman Kellogg came in I837, and settled on a farm on Lake avenue. Having a decided taste for horticulture, he entered enthusiastically into the raising of apples, peaches, grapes, and a variety of other choice fruits, and established a handsome nursery; also planted mulberry (Morus Multicaulis) and began the manufacture of silk, raising cocoons and winding the fiber for many years. He was a quiet, unobtrusive citizen, of decided reformatory tendencies, and a radical Abolitionist. He lived only about eight years after coming here. James A. Rumsey was born at Newburg, N. Y., November 8, 1814. He arrived here June 6, I837, and assisted Henry Stone in building a house, working for $15 per month; afterward worked in the erection ot the first mill on the canal bank-the "Big Mill," as it was called in those days-at $i per day, for Smith & Brownell, its builders. Rumsey took charge of the mill and ran it for some time, and relates that the necessities of the occasion made him the first cooper in Grand Rapids, both for flour and tight barrels. Having occasion to ship a quantity of flour, and no barrels, he procured from a man down the river a lot of staves that had been intended for the Chicago market, and, having with him a kit of coopers' tools, he set to work and made the barrels for the flour. Soon afterward, impelled by a similar necessity, he made pork barrels for the packing of a large quantity of pork which had been piled up with salt to keep it from spoiling. Mr. Rumsey purchased land near the south part of the city; also a piece above the north line, on the west side, which he still holds. He owned and operated a mill on Plaster Creek, where the upper plaster mill now is, and a small saw mill on the little stream which comes down from the north part of Paris township into Plaster Creek. He is still looking hale and hearty for his years, is a model citizen, enjoys the good will of every one, and bids fair to round out considerable more interesting history before he leaves these scenes. Edmund B. Bostwick was a prominent man among the pioneers. He fitted up with refined taste a suburban residence, at the corner of Cherry street and College avenue, and platted that part of the town known as Bostwick's Addition. Generous to a fault, with a personal appearance of great manly beauty and dignity, and impulsively enterprising, he won the deferential admiration of his friends; and his friends were everybody. With an abundance of means he would have been a tower of strength to the town, but for lack of capital he failed in many brilliant schemes. To his enthusiastic energy in the early development of this town and the region about much credit is due. He started for California in I850, overland, perished on the way, and sleeps his last sleep under the shadow of the Rocky Mountains. Archibald Salmon was one of the early cabinet makers here, and an excellent workman, an accommodating neighbor and good citizen. He removed to a farm in Wyom PERSONAL SKETCHES OF EARLY RESIDENTS. 111 ing township in I851, where he spent the remainder of his life, and passed away in i887, aged 78 years. Aaron Dikeman, a Native of Norwalk, Vt., was the first jeweler who established a regular trade here. He came in I837, and worked diligently at his business thirty years, when he retired from active life. He was distinguished for his perfect honor, truth and probity, winning and holding the fullest love and confidence of his fellow men. He was a Freemason, and one of the organizers of Grand River Lodge, No. 34; and was also one of the original members of St. Mark's Episcopal church. In the early days he was interested in river navigation. With him money might have been left uncounted, or jewels unreceipted. He was fair and just to all, the highest and humblest alike, and between any dishonorable act and beggary would have chosen beggary on the instant. No better words need be spoken of any man. Tie died in I882, upward of eighty-six years of age. James McCray came to Grandville in 1838, and settled in Grand Rapids about five years later. He was one of the early iron founders and machinists, a skilled workman, and for uprightness and integrity had the golden opinions of all who knew him. He died suddenly while sitting in his chair, in 1851. George Young was a thoroughly just and companionable citizen, influential in the organization and support of the First Reformed church, giving liberally of his means to the erection in i842 of their first house of worship at the corner of Bridge and Ottawa streets, originally a stone building, but now remodeled and used for business purposes. Mr. Young settled in Grand Rapids in I837. He lived a little outside of town, but his interests and feelings were so closely interwoven with those of its citizens as to make him practically one of them. His ancestors were from the Netherlands, and settled at an early day on the Hudson River near Albany. He was largely instrumental in procuring the settlement of the Holland colony in Ottawa county in I847. He was 71 years of age at the time of his death in i870. Henry Stone, in I837, built him a house on the west side of Kent street, midway between Bridge street and Crescent avenue. He soon after started the manufacture of plows. Opposite him, across tne street, lived H. R. Osborn, a blacksmith, who built a house still standing there, familiarly known as the Lucretia Lyon house. Henry Stone died March 4, I864. John Kirkland came here in 1837, and a few years later established a cooper shop near South Division street, where he made barrels by hand. He lived to be nearly eighty years old, and died greatly beloved. William Morman, who came in I837, has been for about half a century the leading lime maker and dealer. He is now retired from active work, well advanced in years. He was born May 9, I815, in England. Leonard Covell, a Vermonter, born in I816, went to Connecticut in his boyhood, and came here June 6, i837. He was a.LEONARD COVELL. carpenter and builder by trade, and built the first Episcopal Church, northwest corner Division street and Crescent avenue, a wood building, which cost about $8oo. He worked for some time building houses and stores, then, in 1844, went into the dry goods trade, which he followed eleven years. He was City Marshaf in I855, then for some time interested in the livery and hotel business, and has since been actively connected with several public improvement enterprises, among them two or three gravel roads, into the country, and also has an interest in the Fifth National Bank. He is still (fall of I889) a public spirited citizen of our rapidly growing town. 112 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Charles P. Babcock was a bustling, busy man for many years, sometimes in trade, sometimes in manufacturing, sometimes as landlord entertaining guests, always one whose ambitions were greater than his physical strength. He removed to Washington, D. C., in I867. Daniel Ball, for more than twenty years, beginning in the early village days, was a rman of tireless activity in many business lines. In trade as a merchant, and in storage and forwarding; in steamboat building and navigation enterprises; in manufacturing; in real estate dealings and improvements, and in banking, he usually kept himself loaded with as much labor and responsibility as three or four ordinary men should carry. He had great tenacity of purpose, as well as energy and industry, and knew no such thing as discouragement so long as his health permitted him to keep upon his feet. He began business in Michigan at Owosso; camehereabout i84I, and removed to New York in i863, leaving here many germs of his planting for the great progress which our city has made. Another of the moving spirits here from I84I to I853, was Henry R. Williams, who, like Daniel Ball, laid well some of the foundations of material growth and the general weal. He came here from Rochester, N. Y. His aspirations were farreaching, and his will to work in public and private enterprises was curbed only by the limits of his bodily strength. He was a popular and much loved citizen, and was the first Mayor of Grand Rapids. His mind wore out his physical machinery, and his life went out at the very flower of his manhood, July I9, I853, at the age of fortythree years. Ball and Williams were both conspicuous in the development of steamboating on Grand River. JOHN BALL was born on Tenny's Hill, near Hebron, Grafton county, N. H., November I2, I794, and died at his Grand Rapids homestead, in his ninetieth year, February 5, I884. He was the youngest of ten children, all of whom he survived save one sister, Mrs. Sarah Powers, of Lansingburgh, N. Y. His father, Nathaniel Ball, was a native of Hollis, N. H., and his mother, Sarah, was the daughter of Thomas Nevins, of Hancock, N. H. Mr. Ball's early life was spent at hard work on his father's mountain-side farm. The promi nent incident of this period was his being listed for military service during the war of i812, but, the war soon closing, he did not serve. At twenty he had had but three short terms of winter schooling; but prevailed upon his father to aid him to take a term at Salisbury Academy. With this foundation he began teaching in Vermont, in order to continue his studies. When, a year later, he announced a wish to attend Dartmouth College, his father looked upon the project as foolhardy and wrong, especially in a youngest son, who should stay at home and care for his parents. He was notified that no help could be afforded him for such a wild scheme. But he arranged with his youngest brother, William Ball, to take the farm and care for them, while he earned his way through Dartmouth, graduating in 1820, in the class with George P. Marsh and Rufus Choate. During the next two years he studied law with Walbridge & Lansing at Lansingburgh, N. Y., teaching school to meet expenses. Then he left for New York City, and sailed for Darien, Ga. Nearing port, about five miles from the coast, the vessel was wrecked, and Mr. Ball was the last (save the Captain, who would not go and was drowned) to leave the ship, after the others had been cared for. Friendless and penniless he reached Darien, but soon found a position as teacher near Savannah, where he remained six months. He then returned to Lansingburgh, N. Y., was admitted to the practice of law in I824, formed a partnership with Walter Raleigh and later with Jacob C. Lansing, and was elected Justice of the Peace in i827. Two years later his brother-in-law, William Powers, was burned to death by an explosion of varnish in his oil cloth factory, and Mr. Ball at once, on account of his sister and her two young children, undertook the management of the factory, learned the business, found new markets for the goods, and by the close of the year i83i had paid off the debts and left the works in a flourishing condition (his sister, at the time of her husband's death, had asked the creditors to take the factory for the debts, which they refused to do). This being accomplished, Mr. Ball was free to carry out a longcherished wish to cross the Continentat that time a venturesome and almost unheard-of undertaking. January i, I832, he left for Baltimore, to join a party being ^^^^^^ ^^^^~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~10 I PERSONAL SKETCHES OF EARLY RESIDENTS. 113 fitted out by Nathaniel J. Wyeth, of Boston. The company did not move till spring, when they went sixty miles by the then new Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, then by canal and horseback to Pittsburgh, and thence by river to St. Louis, then a small, frontier, French village. At Independence, Mo., they joined the celebrated Capt. William Sublette's party, and began a four months' tramp across the plains and the Rocky Mountains. The party consisted of eighty men, with 300 horses and mules. Their main subsistence was buffalo meat-twice during the journey they were several days without food, and at one time two days without water. In June they went through the "South Pass," ten years before its discovery by John C. Fremont. They were frequently aided by Indians, of whose honesty and kindness Mr. Ball never tired of telling. In one case an Indian followed them two days to return a knife that had been carelessly left in camp, and refused to receive any trinket, money or other reward therefor. After the mountains were reached the party began to separate, leaving only twelve when they came to the upper streams of the Columbia River, to make their way without a guide to Fort Walla Walla and Fort Vancouver, ninety miles from the mouth of the Columbia, where they were received by Dr. McLaughlin, resident representative of the Hudson Bay Company and Governor of the then English Territory. Here Mr. Ball remained as Dr. McLaughlin's guest, and here during the following winter taught the first school in what is now the State of Oregon. Here also he wrote an account of his journey, geographical, geological and descriptive, which was published in Silliman's yournal of Science. In the spring ot I833 he became the first American farmer of Oregon. Learning that American immigrants were expected, he obtained a few tools and some seed wheat, went up the Willamette River to near where the city of Portland was afterward founded, built a cabin, with the help of some French neighbors, and raised sixteen acres of wheat. The immigrants did not come, and he sold his crop to pay his passage to the Sandwich Islands. En route the vessel lay three weeks at San Francisco, then a Spanish mission, with a few fishermen's huts. Where now is the great city were only sand dunes and marshes. At Honolulu he met a former 8 classmate, a Mr. Hinkley, and a Mr. Brinsmaid, lead merchants there, and as an invited guest met the native King, Tamahameha I., and his retinue. In January Mr. Ball boarded a New Bedford whaler, bound for Tahiti and around Cape Horn for home. After a tempestuous voyage, being out of sight of land seventy days, Rio Janerio was reached June i, and there he fortunately secured passage as captain's clerk on the U. S. War Schooner Boxer, commanded by Lieutenant, afterward Admiral, Farragut. Returning to Lansingburgh, after two and a half years of adventure, Mr. Ball found he had been given up for lost by most of his old friends. For the next two years he practiced law at Troy, N. Y., and then accepted an offer from capitalists to go west and invest in lands at his discretion. He arrived at Grand Rapids in November, i836, returned to Detroit to complete business arrangements, and opened a law office here in the spring of I837, having as partners at different times George Martin (afterward Chief Justice), S. L. Withey (who became U. S. Judge), Edward E. Sargeant and James H. McKee. The partnership of Ball & McKee lasted thirty-four years. In 1837 Mr. Ball was elected a member of the State Legislature, as a Democrat, to which party he always adhered, and served in the session of I838. Two years later Governor Barry appointed him to select and locate 400,ooo acres of Internal Improvement lands granted by the General Government to this State. The location of these lands in Kent and adjoining counties aided materially in attracting settlers to this part of the State. He was also much interested in the public schools, and was for twenty-one years a member of the Board of Education. Of his life at Grand Rapids much more is told in these pages, in his notes of early times in this Valley, and in connection with other topics. He went through a long life with his eyes open; traveled extensively at home and in Europe; was a close observer of men and of Nature, and to an unusual degree won the confidence and esteem of all who knew him. Mr. Ball was married December 31, I849, to Mary T., daughter of Arthur L. Webster, of Plymouth, N. H. Of ten children born of this union, five are living. James Ballard, who came in I838 from 114 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Vermont, was especially a representative Congregational minister and school teacher here. He went upon a farm in Paris at an early day, which he cultivated many years, coming to town regularly on his duties clerical and scholastic. H.e was a man of firm mind and radical tendencies, earnest and zealous in whatever cause he considered reformatory, and left an enduring impress upon many who came within range of his conscientious example and teachings. He was a native of Massachusetts, and a graduate of Williams College. He married, at Bennington, Vt., in I831, Emeline Hinsdill, a highly gifted and cultivated lady, who was a loving companion and helpmeet for him while she lived. During several years after the war Mr. Ballard labored as a teacher among the Freedmen of the Southern States. Joseph J. Baxter came from Vermont. He was a carpenter and millwright, and was among the pioneer wagon makers. Later he was in the livery business, grocery and feed trade, and bed spring making, successively. His first house, built about i843, is yet standing at the corner north of Fountain and west of North Division street. William Bemis was forty years or more a merchant on Monroe street, and at his death his sons, the Bemis Brothers, succeeded to his trade. He was a quiet, steady-going citizen, held in universal esteem. Richard E. Butterworth was born in Jamaica, West India Islands, of British parentage, and was an engineer, educated at Manchester, England. He came to Grand Rapids in i843, and purchased land just southwest of the city, where he developed a gypsum quarry, and engaged in plaster manufacture about nine years later. Selling his mill and property there, he moved into the city in I856, and lived here till his death, at nearly 82 years of age, in I888. Here he engaged in the foundry and machine business, buying therefor the iron works at the foot of the east-side canal, which he carried on during the rest of his life. He built three brick blocks near those works. At one time he established a petroleum refinery, but this business was soon discontinued. He was a man of extraordinary energy and pertinacity, and contributed largely to the productiveness and wealth of the city. In his later years he traveled much in Europe, and in the Pacific region of this country, and, being a constant reader, acquired a great fund of information. One of his latest acts was a gift of about $12,000 to the founding of St. Mark's Hospital. George Coggeshall was one of the comers of i836, and at an early day a Justice of the Peace. He built a dwelling house on the corner of Kent and Bridge streets, east of the Bridge street house, where he lived till i86i. He was a man of mark in the early days, plain, direct and blunt in speech, and always meaning just what he said. During many years he was the attorney and manager of the Lucius Lyon interests in what was called the Kent plat. Alfred X. Cary was engaged in trade on Monroe street as early as I843; a wellknown and respected citizen and business man till his death in i882; as merchant, hotel landlord, steamboat captain, flouring mills manager, and as an honorable servant of the public in various official positions. Charles P. Calkins was one of the very early lawyers, and has seen about all there is of the growth of more than half a century in this town. He was born at Hinesburgh, Vt., January 24, 1803. William H. Godfroy was the first hotel keeper; afterward a merchant, and both he and his brother John had considerable trade with the Indians as long as the natives remained near this place. John F. Godfroy came to Grand Rapids in I837, when but thirteen years old. Even at that early age he had been engaged in the Indian trade, with his older brother and with the Ewings of Indiana. He was born at Detroit, J1uly 4, I824. His business in connection with the fur trade carried him over the entire State and the Lake Superior country, made him acquainted with the representative men of both white and Indian races, and especially influential among the latter. In Grand Rapids he afterward settled down to mercantile and real estate dealings. lie was averse to holding public official positions; but was chosen in I853 and served as Recorder of the city for one term. He was three times married: first, to Lucilia Genereaux; second, to Mary St. Aubin; third, to Adelaide M. Moross, who survives him. He was a man of genial sociability; kind-hearted, intelligent, and honorable, and a devout adherent of the Roman Catholic faith. Hle died at his home in this city January 25, 1876. PERSONAL SKETCHES OF EARLY RESIDENTS. 115 Toussaint Campau, a resident from 1828, was in trade here for some years; and George Campau improved a farm which now is included in the southeastern part of the city. John Scott and James Phillips were the pioneer barbers. Scott, sometimes nicknamed General Scott, was a fat jolly mulatto, and the first of his craft who had the courage to advertise his trade in the newspapers. In addition to his skill with the razor, he was an excellent cook, and a general favorite about the National Hotel. Phillips, as dark and shiny as any of his race, was a steady, respected citizen, and kept a barber shop twenty years or more. There were few other colored residents in the early village days. Jacob Rogers came from Rutland county, Vermont, in I836. He was a sturdy farmer, and lived a little way south of the city upward of thirty years. William G. Mosely and family came from Westfield, Mass., to Grand Rapids, in I837. From Detroit they came through the woods with a two-horse wagon, and were six days on the journey. I-Ie was a mechanic, and aided in the construction of many of the early buildings. His son, Charles Mosely, was a small lad when the family moved here. In i849 he was appointed clerk in the Grand Rapids Postoffice, and served as such under two or three Postmasters. For a time he was engaged in the grocery trade. He has now for some years been operating in real estate, chiefly as agent. George W. Pattison, who started the first newspaper in Grand Rapids, after selling it, went in 1838 to Calhoun county, and has since lived most of the time in Detroit, where he has been connected with a considerable number of newspapers within the last forty years. After leaving Grand Rapids, he was for some years a Quaker preacher. Charles I. Walker came in i836, and began making investments in land hereabout, as the agent of Junius H. Hatch. The panic of I837 put a damper on real estate speculations, and he purchased the Grand River Tinies, but did not keep it long. He was the first Treasurer of the village of Grand Rapids. Here he began the study of law, in the office of George Martin. In 1840 he was chosen to represent this district in the Legislature. Since 1851 he has resided at Detroit. Religiously, by education, he was originally a Quaker. In the fall of i888 he visited Grand Rapids, and beheld an illustration of the growth of the place during the forty years since he was Village Treasurer, in the new City Hall, at the dedication of which he participated in the exercises. fHIe has held many positions of honor and trust in the State. A conspicuously odd or eccentric personage on the streets in the village days, was Calvin Hinds. He lived a little out of town, west of the river, but his visits to the business part were almost as regular as the daylight. He was a man of some education, of peculiar humor, witty and sometimes severely satirical. Though an object of all sorts of ridicule, and occasionally of abuse, he seldom, if ever, resorted to physical retaliation, depending upon his ready tongue as his most potent weapon of offense and defense. He had been unfortunate in business before coming here, and was possessed of the idea that in some way Deacon Stephen Hinsdill was responsible for his misfortunes; he had grown somewhat dissipated, and when under the influence of liquor, was morbidly sensitive upon that point. Pages might be written in description of his adventures and eccentricities, but one or two examples will suffice to illustrate his peculiar characteristics. At times he was piously reverential and scrupulously chaste in language; at other times excessively profane and vulgar. On one occasion when he was very noisy, some young men, one of their number acting in the guise of an officer, arrested and took him "to jail." Their "jail" was an apartment under the rear of the Congregational church. It was closed with a strong door and a padlock, and, having locked him in, the boys retired a short distance. After exhausting his vocabulary of epithets upon his tormentors, he threw himself against the door, burst it from its hinges, took it upon his shoulders, and marched down Monroe street, shouting: "Here I come, with the gates of Gaza on my back!" VWhen Dr. Penney's lecture room, on the west bank of the river at Bridge street, was erected, and Ebenezer Anderson was putting the finishing touches to the plastering, Mr. Hinds went across the bridge, considerably under the influence of strong drink, walked into the building, went behind the speaker's desk, upon which he placed his hat, reverentially folded his 116 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS hands, closed his eyes and made a fervent prayer (in dedication of the building, as he explained). Mr. Anderson, relating the circumstance, said he was never so astonished in his life before. While Deacon Hinsdill was in his last sickness, in his house a little south of the Division Street Methodist Church, Mr. Hinds came along in front of the place, one balmy evening, quite late, knelt down upon the grass, and prayed with great fervor and apparent earnestness for the man whom he regarded as his enemy, and so loud as to be heard distinctly in several of the houses about; closing with invocation: "0 Lord, may his last hours be peaceful, and his soul, redeemed, be taken with the blest into Thy kingdom, if it be consistent with Thy will-but, 0 Lord, we awfully fear that it isn't! " Strangely in keeping with his life was the death of Mr. Hinds, which occurred soon after. He said to several whom he met, when leaving the village one evening, that he had a "summons to appear as a witness in the Court of Heaven" on the morrow, and that he should never come to this side of the river again. The next morning he was dead. Simeon M. Johnson had an agency for fire insurance as early as I837. He was later a newspaper editor, a lawyer and politician, and about 1852 removed to Washington. Haley F. Barstow came to Grand Rapids in i844. He was a graduate of Harvard University, a ready writer and an occasional contributor to the early newspapers here. His wife was a daughter of William G. Mosely. He died suddenly of apoplexy after a residence of twenty-seven years. Robert M. Collins came here a youth in the early days of the village, and learned the printer's art; was afterward engaged in manufacturing and trade; a very active and energetic citizen, who contributed much to the growth and development of the city during the first twenty years of its corporate existence. He was widely known and highly respected. Truman H. Lyon was a native of Shelburne, Vermont, came to Michigan in I836 and to Grand Rapids in i840, and resided here until his death, thirty-one years later, at the age of 7I. He was generally prominent in active business life, and also filled a number of positions of public trust and responsibility, honorably and with fidelity. He served two terms as Postmaster, and in I854 was in the State Legislature. In I856 he built the brick block at 14 Canal street, long known as Masonic Hall, which was considered an elegant structure for those days. He was a prominent Mason and Master of Grand River Lodge No. 34, a number of years. In politics he was a Jacksonian Democrat, and in religious affiliation an Episcopalian. He was a citizen of sterling uprightness, and true gentility of character. Wilder D. Foster was a native of Orange county, New York. He came to Grand Rapids in i838, and resided here until he died, September 20, 1873, aged 54 years. He began life as a mechanic in a tin shop, and was among the founders of the hardware trade here. The prominent points of his business life near the foot of Monroe street, are given elsewhere. For more than a quarter of a century he was at the head of a trade which made him well known throughout the State. As a successful merchant, a public-spirited citizen and an honest man, whose spoken word was the very synonym for integrity, he won the explicit confidence of all who knew him. He was an industrious, practical, earnest man, a man of principle and good judgment, and was often called to public stations of trust and responsibility. In city offices, from Alderman to Mayor; in the State Legislature, and in Congress, his scrupulous fidelity won universal commendation. In politics he was an ardent Republican. He was not a church member, but a regular attendant at the Congregational Church, of which his wife was a member. He married in I849 Fanny Lovell, of Ionia. His home life was a happy one. Modest, self-reliant, honest, amiable and whole-hearted, he left behind him the rich fragrance of a good name. Philander Tracy, -a native of Cayuga county, New York, began active life as a sailor on the lakes, between Buffalo and Chicago, and with his schooner visited Grand Haven as early as i824. He came to Grand Rapids in I836. Two years later he moved to Lowell, returned to Grand Rapids in i845, and resided here until he died in I873, at the age of 72 years. His principal occupation was that of lumberman, in which he was moderately successful. Physically he was a man of powerful frame, and an untiring worker. He was strictly upright in business, plain of speech, strong PERSONAL SKETCHES OF EARLY RESIDENTS. 117 willed, firm in judgment, and a well respected citizen. In i840, under the old county court system, he was elected Associate Judge, and served one term. John M. Fox, who came into the valley in I837, and after I846 resided many years in Grand Rapids, was well known and respected as a citizen, business man and a public officer. During the last ten years of his life he resided at Lowell, where he died January 4, I873, aged 62 years. John W. Squier was a native of New Jersey, and in early life lived near Seneca Lake, New York. He came to Washtenaw county in I834 and to Grand Rapids in 1842. He followed the flouring business thirty years. He was a plain, positive man, but accommodating and genial, universally known and esteemed throughout this valley. Jedediah Gray was a wagon maker by trade, who died in I876. In I846 he had a shop on the alley north of Bridge street, between Kent and Ottawa, with turning lathe and some light machinery, for which the motive power was the stream from what has since been called the Kusterer spring, turned upon an overshot wheel. In early life he served as captain in the Florida war. Henry Seymour came from Onondaga county, New York, in i842, and was the first teacher of an academic school in this town. In I844 he married Jeannette, daughter of Stephen Hinsdill. He was a man of mild manners and gentle spirit. In after life he engaged in mercantile business, and served a term each as Representative and a Senator in the State Legislature. Robert S. Parks, a native of Cayuga county, New York, came to Michigan in I823 and to Grand Rapids in I844. About I830 he assisted in surveying Government lands between Maple River and Grand Rapids, on the south side of Grand River. After coming here he was many years prominent in the building and running of steamboats. He built three for Grand River, one for Muskegon River, and one for White River. Always a bustling, goodnatured man, his friends were everybody. Christopher W. Leffingwell, in the early days of the city, was prominent in organizing the local military companies. He was an attorney, officiated as Justice of the Peace, and was at times engaged in mercantile business. Knowlton S. Pettibone, a settler from Ver mont in I836, was a surveyor and civil engineer, and followed that profession nearly all his life. A resident here upward of forty years, he performed a great amount of useful service for individuals and the public. He was a man of steady habits, quiet demeanor and irreproachable character. Daniel Marsac came here in i828, and afterward was many years an Indian trader at Lowell. He was held in great esteem by all the pioneers. Damon Hatch, in the village days, lived in a square stone cottage at the northwest corner of College avenue and Cherry street. He was a quiet, unassuming citizen, and Secretary of the Kent County Agricultural Society in its early years. He died at Canandaigua, N. Y., in I876. James Mortimer Smith was a man well known in the valley during the forty years after I836. He settled first in Muskegon county, and after about i855 resided in this city. For many years prior to his death in I879, his home was an elegant residence at the junction of State and Cherry streets. John Mathison, a native of England, came here in i838, and was a resident until his death-about forty-two years. He was a tailor, and followed that trade and the business of a merchant clothier, near the lower end of Monroe street. James H. Scott, about i842, came from Oswego county, New York, and was a pioneer in the pail manufacture. He resided here during life, a period of thirty-six years, 118 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. and left a pleasant memory as an enterprising citizen and genial gentleman. Lewis Martin, a German by birth, came to Grand Rapids about i852, and was in the mercantile business nearly thirty years, near the corner of West Bridge and Front streets. He was a trusty, capable man, and represented his ward several years in the Board of Supervisors. Lewis Porter came from Chicago about i848, and opened, where Sweet's Hotel Block now stands, the first store devoted exclusively to the clothing trade. In I856 he built a brick block at 17 Canal street. In I867 he removed to Washington. Afterward he purchased the old Congregational church property, that where the Porter Block, which he built, now stands. He died suddenly in Washington, February I I, I882. Henry H. Philbrick, a teacher of music, came to Grand Rapids about I840, and erected the square wood cottage still standing on Fulton street, just east of the park. In i866 he removed to California, and died there about sixteen years later. Joel Philbrick came in i848, and settled at the corner of Fulton and Barclay streets, at which time there were only two or three houses east of him on the north side of Fulton street. He resided on or near that spot upward of a quarter of a century. William Thum, a native of Germany, came to Grand Rapids in the early days of the city. He was a druggist, and known over the State as a very skillful compounding chemist. He removed to Detroit, and after sixteen years returned, and spent the remaining years of his life here. He died suddenly of heart disease, March ii, I883, aged sixty. His sons Hugoand Ferdinand, are the druggists at 84 Canal street. Gaius S. Deane was a Vermonter. He came to Lyons in I837, and to Grand Rapids in I843. Here until his death, a period of forty years, he was engaged as a foundryman and dealer in castings. He was a thoroughly upright man who enjoyed the highest respect and most implicit confidence of his fellow-citizens. Luman R. Atwater came from Vermont in I837, and has resided in Grand Rapids ever since. He was a mechanic, but has followed besides a variety of occupations and professions, always with strict honesty and propriety. An unswerving prohibitionist, regular and methodical in habits, through life he has been a conspicuous exemplar of perpendicular and conscientious integrity. Williaml Sibley was a navigator upon the river about as soon as there were any boats to command, and was a popular steambloat captain for many years. His homestead was on the west side of the river, near the old Indian village. Simeon S. Stewart was one of the comers of the spring of I836. With a span of horses and wagon he drove throulgh from Detroit, bringing his family and household goods and $I,8oo in cash. He settled on the north side of Bridge street, and lived in a slab house a little below Ottawa street. Slab shanties were among the makeshifts for dwellings in many instances before other sawed lumber became plenty. In that shanty, in March, I837, his son, now a resident of the city, was born. lie was a mason by trade, did some of the earliest stone work, and made lime for it. After about ten years he moved to a farm a few miles out on the Cascade road, where he spent the remainder of his life. Orrin McClure came from Vermont and settled in Grand Rapids, by Coldbrook, in I836. He subsequently removed to a farm, and at the beginning of I889 was yet living near Berlin, Ottawa county. George T. McClure, his son, an ex-soldier, is now a wide-awake citizen of Grand Rapids. Horace McClure (a brother of Orrin) was among the house painters, in the village days, and is now a resident of the city. William I. Blakelv was born in Huntsville, Otsego county, N. Y., June 29, i81o. He came to Grand Rapids June 6, I837, and here resided continuously fifty-two years -till his death in i889. His business for some years was that of carpenter, joiner and house builder. During his school days he was, for some time, a pupil of Millard Fillmore. In i841 he was appointed a U.S. Deputy Marshal and served four years. He also at various periods held local offices of trust and responsibility, and performed the duties pertaining thereto honorably and faithfully. In early life he was a Whig, politically, and later a Republican. In religious views he was liberal and tolerant. He was quiet and unostentatious in bearing and generally beloved for his domestic virtues and his integrity. He married, in I842, Mary L Green, who, with one son, survives him. PERSONAL SKETCHES OF EARLY RESIDENTS. 119 Hiram Jenison settled near Grandville, just west of the county line, in 1836, and soon after came his brothers Luman and Lucius (twins). They are natives of St. Lawrence county, New York. Though some miles out, the Jenisons have always been so actively associated with Grand Rapids people in society and business as to seem almost identical in citizenship. The twins have never married, though they have passed the middle of the last decade of the length of life usually allotted to man. These have ever been a bustling, public-spirited family. Nehemiah White, a chair-maker in the village cays, lived on Division street at the Lyon street corner. He was a citizen with whom it was a pleasure and a luxury to be acquainted. In person he was tall and slim, straight as an arrow, and in deportment a gentleman of the strictest integrity and Christian kindness. He (lied in I859, at the age of 76 years, and was buried with Masonic honors. He was a highly esteemed communicant in St. Mark's Church. Sarell and Ransom E. Wood (brothers) came to Grand Rapids about 1853, and were among the active and enterprising men for some fifteen years. Sarell took much interest in manufacturing ventures and in improvements. They built themselves handsome residences, Sarell on the north and Ransom on the south side of Fulton street, well up toward Lake avenue. Sarell died in this city, April 2, 1869. Ransom went abroad and died just after returning from Europe, in New York City, June 28, i88i. They were New Englanders by birth. John W. Gunnison was born in Goshen, N. H., November 10, I812. He graduated at West Point in 1835, and was appointed Lieutenant in the United States Artillery. In I841 he married Martha Delony, of Georgia, and between that time and I849 was in the topographical department of the regular Army, engaged in the coast survey of the great lakes. In 1844 he entered a tract of land south of West Fulton street, and made Grand Rapids his family home. After 1849 he was engaged in the topographic survey of the basin of the Great Salt Lake, Utah, where, on Sevier River, October 26, 1853, lie was killed by a party of Pah-Ute Indians. He was greatly beloved, and his death was sincerely mourned in this city. One who was with him in 1844, surveying the region of the Straits of Mackinac, expresses the opinion that his slayers were Mormons disguised as Indians; and describes him as tall in stature, slim and active, talented, energetic and enterprising, and a worker who frequently tired out the others of his party. He is well remembered by many of the older citizens of Grand Rapids. Henry Bremer, a graduate from a college in Germany, came to Grand Rapids in I85o, and resided here until his death in 1883, engaged principally in manufactures and the grocery trade. He was possessed of a genial disposition, and had the respect and warm friendship of all with whom he was associated, either in business or social life. He was several times chosen to official positions in the city, and in I872, and again in HEFNRY BREMER. 1874, was elected County Treasurer. In all his trusts he was a faithful officer, the very embodiment of scrupulous honesty. Wright L. Coffinberry was born at Lancaster, O., April 5, 1807. His parents were born in Virginia, and were pioneers in Ohio. In youth he received a moderate education in the common schools; but later in life, by practical application and experience, became well versed as a ciivil engineer, and as a student of archaeology. After he was eighteen years old, he learned the trades of carpenter and millwright, which he followed thirteen years. In 1836 he became a member of the Civil Engineers Corps of Ohio, and civil engineering was his favorite occupation thereafter, during life. He was an expert mechanic, and an excellent draughtsman. 120 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. He came to Grand Rapids in I846, and at irst operated a watch and clock repairing establishment on Monroe street, afterward removing to Canal street. In I850 he was chosen the first City Surveyor, to which place he was again elected in I854, and held it three years. In I853 he was in Government service, surveying public lands in Michigan. In I859 he surveyed a State road from the northwest corner of Kent county to Northport, and in the following year filled a contract for cutting out and bridging forty miles of it north of Newaygo. In the survey he and his party of picked men camped in the woods, and carried their knapsacks for thirty nights and days. In I86i he enlisted for the war, and raised Company C of the First Michigan Engineers and Mechanics, and served a year and a half as its Captain, when he resigned. Mr. Coffinberry married, near Mansfield, O., August i8, 183 I1, Jane Beach, who was his life companion during fifty-seven years, and survives him. He died suddenly, in a street car, March 26, I889. "Here is a man whom you may trust with money uncounted," said an eminent phrenologist lecturing in the Congregational church edifice nearly forty years ago, as, blindfolded, he placed his hands upon Mr. Coffinberry's head. No better delineation of his character could to-day be made than is condensed in those few 'words. As a newspaper correspondent fitly said after his death: "He was a man of action rather than profession. He was a man whose life was made up of deeds which, without seeming great in themselves, yet as a mass would build a monument. He was simple and unpretentious, but great in the little duties and details of life. A man of strong convictions was he, but yet of the broadest charity." Mr. Coffinberry was the inventor of a machine for drawing ellipses upon any scale required, and also of a compensating pendulum, which showed ingenuity and skill. He was an enthusiast in natural history, and especially in archaeology; was a member of the Grand Rapids Lyceum, the Lyceum of Natural History and the Kent Scientific Institute, and served as President and on prominent committees in each of them. He made many explorations, and accumulated a rare and valuable collection of natural objects and antique relics. He was a life-long temperance man, and in politics an unswerving Republican. He was also for many years connected with the Odd Fellows and the Masonic order. Than his, few or none leave a better record of honor and manliness. From i 881 he was six years one of the County Superintendents of the Poor, and nowhere more heartily than among the poor was his kindness or his integrity recognized and appreciated. For his natural nobility and sterling worth he is held in affectionate memory. Thomas W. White, who resided in Grand Rapids after i865 until his death, January 10, I884, was one of the pioneers of this valley. He was born at Ashland, Mass., November 6, I805, and came to Grand Haven in I836. He was well known in all this part of Michigan, and much beloved as a generous, energetic and upright citizen. Charles Rathbun came to Grand Rapids in I844. He was a native of Cayuga county, N. Y. Here he was proprietor of the Rathbun House about eight years, and in I852 retired to a farm in Paris township. He was a man of robust frame, strong will and temperate habits. He died in I875, aged 79 years. Hiram Rathbun was also a hotel keeper, who died in I86i. Aaron Sibley built and lived in the house on Prospect Hill which was afterward in the village days used as a school house. Howard Jennings and James Short were ship carpenters here before the town was five years old. Jennings moved upon a farm in Paris township, and lived to a good old age. Capt. Short was the builder of the steamer Governor Mason; he died in i838. William H. Withey came from Vermont and built a saw mill some miles above the rapids, in I837-38, and for twenty-eight years was prominent in business enterprises, including staging to Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, and constructing the Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids Plank Road. Julius Granger began as a manufacturer, on the east-side canal, at the "Big Mill," and was afterward a bustling, jolly landlord, as well as stage proprietor, and an enterprising citizen. He came here from Ohio in 1844, and lived here till his death, twentyseven years. Other mention of these and many more of the pioneer co-workers in Grand Rapids may be found within the pages of this book; but to go through the list and gather the full history of each individual, is not practicable, if possible. CHAPTER XI. THE CIVIL CHRONICLE-EVENTS OF FORTY YEARS. ONLY the more prominent events and happenings of the life of our city will here be chronicled. To go into minor affairs and small details would unduly prolong the narration. The towns and the village numbered only scores and hundreds where the city has its thousands of population, and social and material interests and daily experiences multiply in proportion. Hence only the larger and deeply-cut waymarks of the city period need be treated in a history of this kind, at a time when public documents and records, associative and in business affairs, are not only numerous and exhaustive but well preserved and accessible to all. i850. From the town and village to the city form of government the transition was easy and without friction, and the new rr achinery started smoothly. May 15, Canton Smith, Edmund B. Bostwick and ten others, left for California. Bostwick died on that overland journey, and on receipt of the news there was a public meeting and general demonstation of sorrow. The first menagerie that ever visited Grand Rapids exhibited May 20, on the public square. The papers estimated that 5,000 people were in attendance. July 13, there was a large meeting on the public square, in respect to the memory of President Zachary Taylor, who died July 9, and on the Sunday following memorial sermons were preached in the churches. A daily stage from Jackson, making the third daily line into the city, was established, and soon another was added, from Kalamazoo. August iI St. Andrew's Catholic Church was consecrated. Early in December a break in the embankment opposite the foot of Erie street drained the canal, and stopped the mills for several weeks. Two prisoners, held on the charge of counterfeiting, escaped from jail. i85. According to the newspaper reports the first grand event was of a celestial character-",a very brilliant exhibition of north ern lights," January 2I. It does not appear to have upset the steady going of the new city, nor to have interfered with the evening festivities. The Rev. Joseph Penney entertained the public with a series of philosophical lectures. There was high water in the river at the end of February, and steam navigation began March I7. Judge Edward Mundy died March I3. April 7 an act was passed by the Legislature to provide for the completion of the east side canal and locks, and the removal of the dam to a point lower down the river. The part pertaining to the locks was never carried into effect. On the first of May there was a cold storm, with several inches of snow. Rains in the early part of June again raised the river to overflowing banks. The newspaper chronicles of this year are nearly bare of notable incidents. But there was much building of stores and shops on the business streets, and Kendall's addition was well dotted over with neat dwelling houses. I852. January I7, the Grand Rapids Bridge Company obtained a concession to erect a toll bridge across the river at Bridge street. There was a great increase in the land plaster trade that winter; large quantities of the article were carried south in sleighs. The demand outran the supply. In March occurred the heaviest flood in Grand River since February, I838. At its highest stage, March I6 and 17, the river steamboats came into Waterloo street, in front of the Eagle Hotel, and into Pearl street at its junction with Monroe. The waters subsided as rapidly as they rose, and in two weeks business assumed its usual activity. The flood left Canal street well strewn with stranded logs. Snow fell on election day, April 5, to the depth of six or eight inches. On May i the burglary of Aaron Dikeman's jewelry store, at which about $500 worth of goods were taken, created considerable excitement. The thief 122 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. was not caught. On June 30 the city was hung with black, news having arrived of the death of Henry Clay, and in the afternoon a memorial meeting was held. During the latter part of the year there was much talk on railroad and plank road projects, but not much done. A correspondent of the Rochester American wrote a glowing prediction that Grand Rapids would be "in a few years a city of ten thousand inhabitants," and was "destined to rank as the second place in the State." i853. Little of historic interest occurred in the beginning of the year. West Grand Rapids had taken a start ahead, and business was growing rapidly in that part of the city. A boiler for the steamer Jflichigaan was drawn from Kalamazoo by five pairs of horses on trucks, arriving February 7. An enthusiastic railroad meeting was held February 25, at which resolutions were passed commendatory of the project of the Oakland and Ottawa and Port Huron and Lake Michigan companies. Several similar meetings were held that year. March 8, a stick 0oo feet long, a little over three feet in diameter at the butt, and i6 inches at the tip, was drawn through Monroe street by ten yoke of cattle. It was intended for the mainmast of a lake vessel then building at Michigan City. March 22 the steamer AMichizan was launched. March 23 a scow loaded with 250,000 shingles, attempting to get into the canal, was carried over the dam, boat destroyed and eight or ten men given a cool bath. May I5 a severe gale of wind unroofed a number of buildings, blew one into the river near the west end of the bridge, and uprooted many trees in the city. Sales of real estate grew active and prices advanced this season. A contract for building the railroad from Pontiac to Grand Haven was reported, which helped to "push things" in business circles. July 4 an ox weighing 2,360 pounds was converted into beef and sold at a meat market near the National Hotel. July 19, Henry R. Williams, first Mayor of the city, died at Buffalo, and on receipt of the news the Common Council passed resolutions of eulogy and condolence. The first large steam saw mill of Powers & Ball was built this year. I854. This year was marked by very few unusual events. Public business ran without friction; in trade there was little or no excitement; fruit was plenty, and table sup plies were cheap. In the latter part of summer heat and drouth prevailed, and there were symptoms of panic from fear of cholera, which was epidemic in Chicago and some other western cities. There was an explosion on the steamer fHlm;uing Bir'd, September 2, by which a boy, John McMunn, was killed, and a boatman, James Muir (alive at this writing), was badly injured and permanently crippled. The markets were filled with venison toward the end of the year. 1855. In the early months there was some severe cold weather. In March the first daily newspaper was started. It was a summer of general "dressing up'' of streets and sidewalks in the city; though not much in the way of substantial and permanent improvement was done. The Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids Plank Road was completed, which vastly improved and quickened the means of traffic and travel, and gave a new impetus to the growth of population by immigration. No more of long and hard days' works by teams over rough and multddly roads to reach Grand Rapids from the Michigan Central Railroad. The people began to talk of gaslight, and of incoming railroads, and there was a quick forward movement in real estate and in mercantile business. I856. Some boat building for Muskegon River and White Lake was (done here. In that summer a longer run of theatrical amusement was given than ever before, in Collins Hall, corner of Canal and Erie streets. It was also an era of much building of stores and dwellings. About twenty iron fronts were put in new blocks that season, at an average cost of near $5,ooo each. Many fine residences on the "FIulton Street Hill" toward the east part of the city were built. Pioneer Joel Guild (lied May 26. A night mail to Kalamazoo was established in August. September 9 the Taylor and Barns block, a four-story brick structure on which the workmen were just putting the roof, fell in with a crash. Twenty-eight men were on the building, but fortunately none were killed nor seriously hurt. The block was immediately rebuilt. September 15 a wild bear passing through the east part of the city was shot and killed by Simeon L. Baldwin, near Fulton and Union streets. The stuffed skin was long used as a sign for a hat store. The carcass weighed 324 pounds, and the meat was sold at a market place. IMPROVEMENTS-BRIDGE BURNED-RAILROAD ADVENT. 123 1857. In February the Supervisors granted a charter for a toll bridge at Leonard street, and in that year the bridge was completed. In the spring the citizens of Grand Rapids were active in raising and sending su pplies for the relief of sufferers in Montcalm and Gratiot counties, where there was destittltion among tile settlers. This year was one of great activity in radical and permanent street improvements, which were entered upon in earnest. Monroe was new graded and paved with cobble stone, and heavy cuts were made through Prospect Hill, on Pearl street, and between Pearl and Monroe on Ottawa street (then known as Justice street). September 25, twenty-five business buildings, on both sides of Monroe street, above Waterloo, were burned. This was the first experience in Grand Rapids of a very large and intensely fierce conflagration, and it caused great excitement. The loss of property was estimated at above $75,000. But rebuilding began almost before the ashes were cold, and in the change from the old to the new there was abundant opportunity for improvements of various kinds, which were promptly entered upon. Gas jets were lit in the streets November 12, and on the evening of the I3th several stores on Monroe street were lighted with gas for the first time. It was an event of great interest to the citizens, many of whom had never before beheld a gas light, and went and gazed with much pleasure upon the new luxury. I858. Marcll 22 half a dozen wood buildings near the corner of Canal and Pearl streets (east from Canal) were burned,.involving several stores and a banking office. March 24 the steamer JVawbcck was run over the dam and rapids to the lower river. March 25 John Burke was fatally shot by Sheriff Anson N. Norton, while resisting arrest. Upon judicial examination the Sheriff was acquitted of wrong doing. In the evening of election day, April 5, the bridge at Bridge street and several manufactories along the bank at its east end were destroyed by fire. The conflagration, near midnight, was a dazzling sight; the flames ran quickly from end to end of the bridge, and it became a continuous sheet of flame across the river, a distance of more than 8oo feet. A foot bridge was soon thrown across, over which, for a time, hundreds of persons passed daily, and while the bridge company were rebuilding, a scow ferry boat was run upon the still water above the dam. Five deaths by drowning in the river occurred during the latter part of June-two sons of James Clidesdell and a son of James Dohany, small boys, on the 22d; Anton Hannish, aged 35, on the 26th, and on the 29th, Charles Dondero, an Italian. About this time the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad bridge was begun, and much building was done near the station at Coldbrook, including freight and passenger houses. June 27 was first heard the whistle of a locomotive and the rattle of a railroad construction train, then nearing the northeastern part of the city. Temperature that day 105~ in the shade. Laying of the railway bed and track through the city progressed rapidly till the road was formally opened for traffic. July 2 the locomotive Empire was steamed down from the station through Canal street to the dock at Pearl street, and transferred by a scow down the river to the western division of the railroad. JIlly 12 the newspapers remarked that on that morning dawned a new era in Grand Rapids, whose citizens for the first time could leave their homes by another conveyance than river steamer or stage coach. There was no formal celebration of the opening. Beginning on the I3th, there were regular arrivals and departures, two each, of daily trains east. On the i2th of July ground was broken, north of Bridge street west, by James Scribner and a company of workmen, for the projected Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, and on the i8th of August new contractors, with about seventy-five hands, began the grading in earnest northward, George W. Howland, a printer, throwing the first shovelfull of dirt. August 26 the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad bridge was finished. September i the connection with Grand Haven was made, the engine, with the track-laying, having come through from Mill Point (thirty-five miles) in forty days. Teams crossed the new lattice bridge at Bridge street September 4. The first telegraphic communication here was with Detroit, over the line of the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad Company, when the following correspondence was exchanged: GRAND RAPIDS, September 14, I858. 17, the HJonorable, the Mazyor of the Chit, of Detroit. The Valley City shakes hands with the city of Detroit, and, while nations rejoice at the successful laying of the Atlantic Telegraph, we may be per 124 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. mitted to congratulate each other that distant parts are joined together by that mysterious agent which makes all nations one and mankind a brotherhood. Peace and prosperity to the city of Detroit, and may her noble-hearted citizens ever enjoy the blessings of civil and religious liberty. G. M. MCCRAY, Mayor of the City of Grand Rapids. DETROIT, September 14, i858. To the Honorable, the Mayor of the City of Grand Rapids. The city of Detroit heartily responds to the friendly sentiment of the Valley City, and rejoices with her that science and art are combining to diffuse the blessings of civil and religious liberty throughout the world, and are by the railroads and telegraph bringing us into closer union with our sister cities, identifying our interests and cementing our friendships. JOHN PATTON, Mayor of the City of Detroit. October 4, I858, three wild black bears (cubs) weighing about fifty pounds each, were killed in the Fourth Ward of the city, by Samuel White, Gabriel Burgett, Mr. Clidesdell and a dog. Wild bears were then becoming scarce, and these were the subjects of much curiosity. There was a fine county fair that week, but the bears were not entered for premiums. The Leonard street bridge was finished October 21, and the Pearl street bridge on the 25th of November. I859. First among the pleasurable events of the year was the Burns centennial anniversary festival, January 25, when the Rathbun House was filled to its utmost capacity with citizens of Scotch nativity and other admirers of Scotland's great bard. It was the first celebration of the sort ever held here. Large quantities of land plaster were sent out over the Detroit & Milwaukee Railroad in February; the beginning of shipments of that article by rail. The spring of I859 was notable as being the first within the memory of white men when there were no Indian fishermen about the Rapids or the islands-not a wigwam nor tent nor campfire of "the noble red man" was seen here. The Indian sturgeon trade at this place was ended. The Order of the Sons of Malta, a secret society, the object of which appears to have been sport for the members, flourished during that season. August i9 there was great consternation and excitement in the city. Marietta Fitch was missing. She had gone into the "south woods" beyond Grandville on the previous d'ay, with a blackberrying party, became separated from her companions and remained lost in the forest over night. When found she knew neither her friends nor home, but recovered in a few days from her bewilderment. Building of Daniel Ball's block, where now is the Old National Bank and Sweet's Hotel, was begun in September, and the brick work was finished in November. The first paving of Canal street, with cobble stone, was completed September 27, from Pearl to Hastings street. This was a year of much street work, prominent among new grades being those of Canal, Pearl, Ottawa, Waterloo and Division streets, and several in the eastern part of the city. Wolves and wildcats were not fully exterminated at this date, as appears by the fact that the Board of Supervisors allowed at their October session $30 for the killing of three full-grown wolves, and $io for the killing of four full-grown wild-cats. These ferocious animals were killed in the northern part of the county. October 17 there was a gush of excitement over the gushing of salt water from a deep well at Coldbrook. But it proved rather weak. A list published of prominent business buildings and dwellings erected in the city during the season of I859, footed up a value of about $I36,000. I86o. Social exercises opened with an impromptu celebration of the Jackson anniversary-8th of January-on the evening of the 7th, in the armory hall of the West Side Union School building. It was voted a "grand event," by the military men and firemen. January 23, fire broke out in the Taylor & Barns block, in which the county offices were situated and the county records kept. The buildings were destroyed, with nearly all the records, also the wood building across the alley (now called the Arcade) where the Postoffice was kept. The private losses in money value were estimated at about $90, ooo-that of the public records, books and documents could not thus be computed nor ever fully made good. Several serious injuries were sustained by men fighting the fire, but none fatal. An abstract of titles in the county had just been completed by the Register of Deeds, L. S. Scranton. This, his private property, with ten or twelve out of sixty or more volumes of the records of deeds, constituted all that was saved from the fire. Those abstracts were afterward purchased by the county, and in the winter of i86x the Legislature passed MILITARY EXCITEMENT-PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS. 125 an act making them prima facie evidence of title, as to real estate covered by their record. The members of the Bar Association had a meeting February 7, and agreed to take no advantage, in litigation, of the loss of records by the then recent fire, but to aid each other as much as possible in the mutual use of such papers and documents as any of them might have. Thomas D. Gilbert, January 20, made a donation in trust, with certain conditions, of $2,000, which was the foundation of what is to this day known as the Gilbert Trust Fund belonging to our public schools. William L. Waring that spring plowed and fenced and sowed to wheat forty acres of ground within the then limits of the city, on the east side. The Taylor & Barns block, which was burned in January, was rebuilt by Stewart & McReynolds. The steamer Michigan burned to the water's edge, a total loss, in the evening of July ii, a short distance below Fulton street, in the west channel. There was much complaint of the poor quality of paper currency in circulation here, but efforts to introduce better and more reliable bank currency were not successful. This part of the country was still laboring under the depression caused by the general financial revulsion of I857. Yet there was steadily increasing business, and confidence that better things were coming. I86I. At the opening of this year economy was the order of the day, and business men, as well as public bodies, were proceeding cautiously. Times had been "growing tight," as the colloquial expression ran, and there was an indefinable fear or dread of coming events that were casting shadows before. Several States had passed ordinances of secession, and here, as elsewhere, was a gradually swelling current of anxiety. Excitement of a military character grew rapidly after the first three months, and the recruiting of troops, with headquarters in or near the city, not only added enthusiasm to the war feeling, but gave a new spur to business, which from that time grew greatly in volume and importance, and for many years added to the local and general prosperity. I862. Enlisting men for the war proceeded briskly, the headquarters at the fair grounds presenting a busy and inspiring scene throughout the summer. The ladies, and citizens, young and old, not eligible for the army, entered spiritedly into the work of aiding and encouraging the soldiery in behalf of the Union. A tree-planting association was organized in the Third Ward and did good work in setting shade trees on the parks and contiguous sidewalks. Thomas D. Gilbert was prominent in this movement, and at the expense of the city one hundred trees were set on the public square, and a fence put around it and painted. As an illustration of the rapid advance in prices about that time, it is on record that the painter, between the making of his bid and the closing of the contract, about two weeks, asked and obtained $7.50 for the rise on oil. Prices generally rose rapidly after the greenbacks came into circulation; business almost ran wild, and speculators grew light-headed over the sudden fluctuations, which almost every day gave new opportunities for profitable trade. The closing months of the year were marked by great activity in business circles, and at the same time there was much life and liberality in contributing to encourage the soldiers, and help carry on the war. I863. Work on public improvements in the city proceeded briskly. The Third Ward Tree Association obtained permission of the Common Council to fence and otherwise improve the triangular plats of public ground near the head of Monroe and the foot of State street. City Surveyor John Almy died on the 29th of September. Ransom C. Luce erected a three-story brick block on Monroe street, nearly opposite the head of Waterloo, which he named Fremont Block. There was a military camp on the hill, the headquarters of two cavalry regiments then organizing. In the latter part of October, a draft at the Provost Marshal's office in this city caused a brief ripple of excitement. The clergy of the city were very attentive to the soldiers at Camp Lee, and held services there on Sundays, regularly, during the fall. In December the Board of Supervisors authorized the issue of bonds for the purpose of paying a bounty of $200, to encourage enlistments. The amount estimated was $78,400. i864. During the month of January the city swarmed with military men, large numbers of whom arrived and departed daily. On some occasions there were from 3,000 to 5,ooo officers and soldiers at Camp Lee, and other places about the city. On the 22d of 126 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. January a grand festival was given in Luce's Hall, for the benefit of the Soldiers' Aid Society, and several successful entertainments for the same purpose were given ill the following month. The Kent County Soldiers' Monument Association was organized in February, with Thomas D. Gilbert as President. The annual report of the Secretary and Treasurer of the Aid Society, showed a disbursement of $1,721.70 the previous year. It was a winter of very little severe cold, and not much good sleighing. A revised enrollment list, published March i, placed the quota for this city under the President's call for 500,000 men, at 1I4. This quota had already been filled, substantially, by the aid of local bounties. At this time the "Bronson Mortgage," originally made in I835, covering a large portion of the Kent Plat, and which had been a great hindrance to sales of property there, was finally paid off and discharged. This was a matter of great importance to the people east of the river, and north of Lyon street, giving them an opportunity which they had not before enjoyed, of obtaining clear titles to lots, on which they might erect permanent buildings with a feeling of security. About 200 soldiers were forwarded from this city the first week in March, mostly as recruits to various commands of the Army of the Cumberland. March I7, eight wood buildings, mostly occupied by small stores, and including the City Clerk's office, on the east side of Exchange Place Alley, were destroyed by fire. The city safe and papers were saved. The first movement toward the establishment of a street railway in the city was made on the 28th of April, by the opening of books for stock subscriptions for a Railway Company. The veterans of the Old Third Infantry, who did not re-enlist after the expiration of the three years service, and who went out from this vicinity, returned on the i8th of June, and were received with public demonstrations of welcome, and given a supper at the Rathbun House. These "boys," who came "marching home," numbered about thirty. The ladies of the city organized a Soldiers' Fair on the fourth of July, at which about $200 was raised for the benefit of poor families, whose heads were absent in the army, In pursuance of a proclamation by the President, the fourth day of August was observed as a day of National humiliation and prayer. Business houses generally were closed, and appropriate services were held in the churches. Military recruiting was carried on with great energy by the citizens. Frequent "War Meetings' were held, and the quotas for the army, of this city, were filled without resort to drafts. The ladies of the Aid Society held a sanitary fair, at the time of the county fair, at which they realized $I,846.66, as the net proceeds. A large and successful county fair, indicated that, in spite of military drafts, the people were wide awake and prospering in civil affairs. I865. General Thomas NV. Custer visited the city January 25, and was met at the depot, and given a cordial welcome by the Mayor, Common Council, and a deputation of citizens. War meetings were still the order of the day, to keep the volunteer ranks filled, and avoid drafts. On the 4th of March an enthusiastic celebration was held by the citizens, in rejoicing over victories won by the Union forces in the army and navy, and the prospect of a speedy and honorable peace. April io, I865, was a day of jubilee and celebration over the news of the surrender of General Lee and his army, and the end of the war of the rebellion. There were large gatherings in the streets, with processions and muisic and speeches and cheers, and a brilliant illumination in the evening, with more patriotic speeches to a great crowd in front of the Rathbun Houlse. On Saturday, April 15, there was another great public demonstration, but how different! This was one of grief and lamentation. The heads of the people were bowed in deep sorrow and mourning upon receipt of news of the assassination of President Lincoln, which was perpetrated on the previous evening. The city was draped in mourning, flags were put at half mast, business places were closed, and bells were tolled for three hours. On Sunday, April i6, the churches were draped, and solemn services appropriate to such an occasion were held. And the day of the funeral of the murdered President was marked by similar public services. No sooner was the war fairly ended, than the citizens of Grand Rapids began to move in the matter of trying to hasten the construction of more railroads, from the south and southeast, into (Granc Rapids. Public meetings were held, and prominent business men took an active interest in projects that were organized, and WELCOME TO SOLDIERS-M URDER TRIAL-SALT. 127 this was kept up until success appeared, though that required several years. May io the street railway began operations, marking the advent of street cars, over which the citizens rejoiced. A few trials were made this year of concrete pavement for sidewalks —the first of the kind. An unusually fine and enthusiastic. celebration of the Fourth of July took place this year, citizens and returned soldiers joining in jubilee; and a bounteous dinner was served by the ladies to the soldiers on the Pearl street bridge, a table being set through its entire length. The structure was trimmed with evergreen boughs throughout. At the east end was an evergreen cross, on which was woven with green twigs, "In God is our Trust." On the middle arch was lkewise woven, "Welcome, Soldiers-Michigan, my Michigan." At the west entrance was, "Soldiers Welcome.' More than a thousand people were feasted at the table. In this month the Ladies' Soldiers Aid Society disbanded, the organization having been at work from January i, i863, to July i, i865, and disbursed upward of six thousand dollars in aid to;needy s ldiers and their families. Several old buildings burned, December i, below the Eagle Hotel, corner of Waterloo and Louis streets, including blacksmith and wagon shops. i866. The chief topic of general interest in the early part of the year was the question of how to get more railroads into the city, and thus gain the benefit of competition in freights and fares. Frequent meetings were held, with less of progress than of talk. Predictions of enthusiastic speakers that the manufactures of Grand Rapids would in five years reach an annual product of 5,0ooo,ooo in value were regarded as wild by some, but they do not now seem so fanciful. From this time forward manufactures of various kinds grew rapidly and prospered greatly. In the latter part of March occurred a trial for murder, and the crime, being strange and peculiar in its perpetration and the circumstances attending it, wrought an unusual degree of interest and excitement in tlhe community. One Hosea N. Durfee came in October, i865, from Ohio to this city, having with hinu a woman named Harriet Belden, and a boy about eighteen months old. After a few days he engaged a livery team, and with the woman and child drove northward. The next day he returned alone with the team, and left the place. The little boy was found in the bushes a day or two later, by Nicholas Childs, of Courtland township, alive, but nearly famished, and after that the body of the woman, who had been strangled with a rope and stabbed. The perpetrator of this deed was finally arrested in West Virginia, brought to Grand Rapids and arraigned, pleaded guilty, made a full confession, and was, on the 28th of March, sentenced to the State Prison at Jackson for life. The utter lack of any adequate motive for the deed, and the utter depravity of the prisoner, as revealed by his own story, rendered this a peculiar case in criminal history, creating intense horror by its absolutely revolting details. On the morning of the first of May fire broke out at the corner of Kent and Lyon streets, destroyed the wooden buildings on both sides of Lyon west to the alley, swept through north of Lyon to Canal street and thence north on the east side of the latter to the Dikeman block, leaving in its course only blackened ruins and cinders and ashes. The losses by this conflagration were estimated at nearly $ioo,ooo. The facilities for fighting fire were poor and weak as compared with what we have at the present day. May 31, a block of six two-story wood buildings, called the "the six sisters," also several other wood buildings and dwellings, north of Fulton street and east side of Ottawa, were burned. The ground where that fire occurred is now covered by fine brick blocks, mostly used for stores, where much trade is centered. August i, a meeting of those interested in the salt well boring at Coldbrook, near the railway station, was held, at which report was made that at a depth of 9oo feet there were no more signs of better brine than at 300 feet, and that the subscribers were in debt to the committee for advances made. The treasurer was instructed to levy an assessment to reimburse the committee, and further"to sell the hole, in lengths to suit, to any oil companies of the city who may be contemplating further operations." A new dam across the head of the rapids, from opposite Fourth street to the Guard Locks, was completed in September. Bears were somewhat plenty in the region near the city in October. Several foraging parties, numbering from three to six, of these animals were seen, and a number were killed. One of them passed 128 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. through the city near the residence of Mrs. Cuming, on the hill above Crescent Park, creating quite an excitement among the men, boys and dogs, but the bear got away. There has been no such good year for bears since. Two boys, named Carr and Alley, were drowned October 20, by the capsizing of a canoe in which they were passing over the old dam in the river. Among the buildings erected during the season were brick blocks containing five stores, on the east side of Canal street and north of Lyon; several stores on each side of Monroe street, between Waterloo and Ottawa; also a threestory brick block of two stores on Canal street, a short distance south of Erie street; all of which are still standing. The First National Bank building of eighty-four feet front on Canal street, at the corner of Pearl, was sold for $28,000, by Byron D. Ball to Martin L. Sweet. I867. The first notable event was a flood, and an ice gorge in the river, on the 22d of February, raising the stream to full banks along the rapids, and doing considerable damage to property on the east side, between Bridge and Pearl street bridges. Low lands adjacent to the head and below the rapids were overflowed to some distance back. The flood was of short duration. February 27, the ladies of St. Mark's church opened in Luce's Hall an entertainment which they called the World's Bazaar, for two days and two evenings. It was thronged by a large crowd of visitors, and they realized about $800 toward purchasing a new organ for their church. On the evening of March i, a largely attended and successful charity ball was given at the same hall. The citizens celebrated the Fourth of July at the expense of $i,I88.97, and called it cheap. The first bridge on the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad north of the river, over Indian Creek, was finished on the fifth of September. The last week in September the Kent County Fair was held here, with an exhibition exceeding that of any former fair of the society. November i3, the first freight train on the Grand Rapids and Indiana road from the north, came into the city from Rockford. The Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company established a station at West Bridge street in December, and on the i4th the road was open to Cedar Springs. I868. Among the leading attractions at the beginning of the year, appears to have been skating. The first artificial skating park in town was made, by flowing an acre or two of land north of West Bridge street, in the vicinity of Broadway, where the young people with a band of music enjoyed many merry evenings in midwinter. The night of February 3 was characterized by the press as the coldest that had been known in this vicinity. Reports of temperature ranging from 20~ to 38~ below zero were printed. A large congregation crowded Luce's Hall February 22, in the evening, for an enthusiastic celebration of Washington Day. A smaller gathering had a similar anniversary meeting in Rood's Hall. At the breaking up of the ice in the river March io, a jam in the vicinity of Pearl street, filled the river banks on the lower part of the rapids, and stopped work in the mills for two or three days. The Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad bridge, just finished, stood the pressure without injury. The bridge completion was celebrated with an oyster supper at the Bridge Street House. March I7, a bell weighing 2,500 pounds was placed in the tower of St. Andrew's church on Monroe street, and dedicated with imposing ceremonies. The old Irving Hall building was taken down this summer, and a new four story block built in its place. A drouth that had lasted about fifty days was broken by a gentle rain at the end of July, but the river was very low until September. The east channel of the river, from Island No. i to Canal street, at Pearl street, was filled up this summer, making a solid roadway to the east end of Pearl street bridge. The first passage of a locomotive and train of cars across the river by the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, occurred on the i2th day of September. October I4, the Valley City Woolen Mills, situated between the canal and river, east side, were burned, and Allen P. Collar, one of the proprietors, lost his hair, and nearly the entire scalp and skin from his head and face. At a demonstration upon receipt of election news, November 3, John Bero lost an arm by the premature discharge of a cannon. December 14, the Grand Rapids and Muskegon Railroad Company was organized; but the work which it contemplated was destined to be done by another company. i869. The year was ushered in with wind and storm and drifting snow; nevertheless RAILROADS-VISITORS 10 THE CITY-BUILDINGS ERECTED. 129 the new year calls were many and merry. Union Skating Park, north of West Bridge street, was a popular resort for diversion during January. February 3, the Grand Rapids and Lake Shore Railroad Company was organized. This effort toward reaching Muskegon was another of the enterprises doomed to go out in smoke, though it accomplished much of real benefit, the profits of which were mainly gathered by others than the projectors. The first train of cars from Kalamazoo came into the city March i, by the Kalamazoo, Allegan and Grand Rapids Railroad, and the event was celebrated in the evening of the following day by a supper given to the workmen, at the Bronson House. The "pioneer settler" lot at the corner of Pearl and Monroe streets was bought, March 9, by the City National Bank, for $13,000, including unexpired leases, and the bank building was erected that summer. April 21 about 500 visitors came from Kalamazoo-an excursion over the new railroad by way of Allegan. The Association of Michigan Surveyors and Engineers, organized in i868, held a meeting in Grand Rapids May 5 and 6. Wright L. Coffinberry was President of this association. On May 30 occurred the first formal and general decoration of soldiers' graves in this city, under the auspices of the Grand Army of the Republic. There were impressive exercises at the Fulton street cemetery, and a large audience was gathered. Col. George Gray delivered the address, and companies bearing flowers visited all the other burial places in and near the city. The first week in July was enlivened by races at the first fair of the Grand Rapids Horse Association. July I9 was a gala day among the firemen, the occasion being a visit from the Kalamazoo Fire Department, and there was great enjoyment in feasting and in trials of fire engines. July 27 about fifty business men from Sheboygan and Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, visited the city and were given a reception, with dinner at the Rathbun House. The day being fair, the people gazed at the eclipse of the sun in the afternoon of August 7. The temperature during the progress of the eclipse fell from 80~ to 68~, and rose again about 4~ after the point of greatest obscuration was passed, as marked by the thermometers in this city. The Grand Rapids, Newaygo and Lake Shore Railroad Company 9 was organized in September, which subsequently constructed the railroad from this city to Newaygo. December 21, the fourth annual reunion of the Twenty-first Michigan Infantry was held at the Rathbun House, 200 members being present. I870. The year opened brightly. The previous year had been a prosperous one, and all were hopeful and cheerful. The first train from Jackson over the Grand River Valley Railroad came into the city on New Year's Day, and regular trains began running January 17, on that road. On January 6 was held the first annual reunion of the Second Michigan Cavalry, and General P. H. Sheridan, once its Colonel, was present. Among the new business blocks and other large buildings erected in I869, and just completed or nearly so, a count made in January included: Congregational and Methodist churches, costing about $i70,000; six brick blocks on Monroe street, between Division and Ottawa, $117,500; seven on Canal street, north of Lyon, $80,000; two near the foot of Lyon, one near the foot of Kent, and several on South Division, Ottawa and Bridge streets. It was estimated that more than $425,000 was invested in brick buildings that were completed this winter. A return made in January estimated the sales by manufacturers of the city, for the previous year, at about $i,500,000, which the newspapers characterized as "a pretty fair exhibit for our little thirty-five-yearold town." A flood in the river reached its maximum April 4, when all the low lands on both sides were submerged, and basements along Canal street were filled with water from one to four feet deep. The freshet subsided without material damage other than the extra work required to protect property along the east side canal, and the temporary driving out of many occupants of buildings in the inundated districts. Julne i6 a large number of city and county officers and others came hither from Milwaukee, and were given a cordial reception, with a banquet at Sweet's Hotel. An excursion of about 250 citizens to Milwaukee, August 23, was an incident of general interest. The laying of the last rail on the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, south of the city, September 13, was an occasion for mutual congratulations. This gave a continuous line from Fort Wayne through Grand Rapids to Paris, in Mecosta county, 130 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. and on the ioth of October regular trains begar running south over that road. Octob,:r 20 the Custer Brigade held its second annual reunion in the city. The first regular through train from Grand Rapids to Muskegon left this city November 21, the beginning of railroad traffic with the country down the Lake Michigan shore. i871. There was a heavy fall of snow in the middle of January, about twenty inches in depth, blockading railroad lines and interfering with street travel. January 30 a company was organized in this city to construct a railroad by way of Greenville to Saginaw, and another, the Grand Rapids and Saginaw, was organized February ii, for an air-line road to Saginaw. Neither of these projects has been carried through as then intended. January 31 a company was organized to construct a railroad down the east bank of the river, from about six miles above to about two miles below the city. This also remains unaccomplished. March 30 the Grand Rapids, Holland and Chicago Railroad Company was organized. This has since become a part of the Chicago and West Michigan. April II occurred a more disastrous fire than had before raged in this city. It destroyed all the mills, shops, factories and stores between the river and Canal street, for some distance above and below Erie street. The losses aggregated upward of $250,000. One of the earlybuilt stone structures, Franklin Block, was destroyed, as well as a number of the oldest brick blocks in that part of the cityUnion block, Peirce's gothic store and hall, and Collins block. Most of the other buildings burned were of wood. Several hundred men in the shops and mills were thrown out of employment. May 28 fire destroyed $25,000 worth of property on the east side of Canal street, from Crescent avenue northward. In the early part of June, Jesse L. Williams, who, in I869, had been appointed by United States Judge Withey Receiver for the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, made settlement and resigned his trust, reporting the road completed from Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Paris in Mecosta county. In the middle week of September a union fair was held here, of the Northern Michigan Agricultural and Mechanical Society, the State Pomological Society and the Kent County Agricultural Society, which excelled all pre vious expositions of the kind at Grand Rapids. October 8 was the day of the great fire which destroyed the business portion of Chicago, and also of that which burned out the City of Holland in this State. These calamities drew heavily upon the sympathies of the people of Grand Rapids, and for weeks drew also upon their charitable impulses. Public meetings were held, a relief committee was organized, and the citizens contributed liberally of their means to help the sufferers. Other great fires in this month drew out sympathy and aid. Fortunately, Grand Rapids escaped the widespread devastation by fire, and the generosity of her citizens to the sufferers elsewhere was only limited by the extreme of their ability to give relief. Such funds as could be spared were bestowed without stint, and shelter was given temporarily to many who had been driven from houses and homes. Many thousands of dollars were disbursed in relief work. 1872. The opening of the railroad to Holland, by an excursion thereto and back, January 6, was a pleasurable incident, and it marked another long stride in the forward movement of this city. February 20, the Sweet's Hotel block was partly burned, by which disaster the First National Bank and the Western Union telegraph office, and a number of other business establishments, were forced, temporarily, to find new quarters. May 3, fire between Kent and Ottawa streets, south of Bridge, destroyed a dozen buildings, including the old stone church, and turned upward of ioo people out of doors. May 8, Squier's Opera House block burned, and property valued at about $60,ooo was turned to smoke and ashes and cinders. There was a railroad excursion to Sparta, May 9, over the Newaygo road, just completed to that place. The railroad to Newaygo was opened September I I. October 30, fire destroyed stores and goods to the value, as estimated, of upward of $200,000 on Pearl and Canal streets, each way from the Lovett block, leaving that structure standing alone on the corner. November 26, the old Congregational church building, which stood at the west corner of Monroe and Division streets, was burned. It had previously been converted into stores. December 30 through trains began running to Traverse City, which our citizens thought was glory enough to close the year. RAZING 3UILDINGS-GREAT FIRE-TEMPERANCE. 131 I873. The new year was ushered in by a fire that burned the Kent Woolen Mills. In the spring of this year was accomplished the straightening and opening of the foot of Monroe street (which the citizens had been laboring for during three or four years), at a cost of something near $50,000. In April, the tearing down of the old buildings began, the first to be razed being the Commercial block. This block had been the center of trade in that street for thirty years. Then followed the tearing down of the wood buildings-the hardware store next south, and the "checkered store" next north, and then, on May 20, the tumbling down of what was called the Tanner-Taylor block, at the corner of Pearl, and standing broadside to the foot of Canal street. On July 13 (Sun(lay), occurred the most disastrous conflagration that ever visited the city-not perhaps in the amount of losses, but in the extent of territory burned over, and the number of families burned out. It was north of Bridge street, beginning at the Bridge Street House barn, and extending north to Trowbridge and east to Ionia street. This fire started about the middle of the afternoon, and destroyed near one hundred buildings, turning but some one hundred and thirty families (about 600 persons) from their homes. The day was very sultry, and the flames raged so fiercely that very little property from the houses was saved. The citizens rallied in daily meetings to devise methods of relief for the needy sufferers, who numbered nearly four hundred persons. Many were given shelter, and many thousand dollars were quickly raised and expended in this work. The street railway through Division street to the fair ground, was commenced August 7, and completed on the first day of September. The delivery of mail by carriers was commenced in the city September i. Under a call through the State authorities, September 6, The Grand Rapids Guard (military company) was sent to Muskegon, to guard the court house and jail there, against apprehended excesses of a mob, who were threatening to lynch a prisoner. The company returned without meeting any serious outbreak. In the week of September 15 —20, the State Fair was held at this city, the first exposition here of the State Agricultural Society, with large crowds in attendance. The total receipts were upward of $30,000. Novem ber 12, the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad was opened to Petoskey on Little Traverse Bay. There was an excursion from this city to Petoskey in honor of the event. On the.night of December 3 occurred a very heavy wind-storm, which damaged some roofs and spires in the city, and wrecked the frames of some partially built houses on the outskirts. The total losses by fire in I873 exceeded $420,000, on which there was only about $175,000 insurance. I874. After the well-remembered panic of the previous fall, though its effects in business circles here were not seriously disastrous, the opening months of I874 were marked by a quietness at the time unusual in this rapidly growing city. There was an apparent halt in business and financial circles, but with ready determination all were preparing for renewed activity. Toward the end of winter began what was called the Women's Temperance Crusade, in Which public meetings were daily affairs, and prayer meetings in that behalf were not infrequent. Such meetings were held in most of the Protestant churches. A series of mass meetings at the Baptist church were held, beginning March I8. In the same week the Women's Prohibition Society held daily prayer meetings, and Union Temperance services were held in the Park Congregational church. This effort kept up a feeling of excitement on the prohibition question for two or three months. But, like many other spasmodic revivals, it subsided, leaving the public mind in doubt as to whether its good effects were equal to what should have been expected from so much fervid enthusiasm. Sweet's Hotel Block was lifted about four feet, the work beginning June io, and taking about four days, and most of the brick blocks on both sides of Canal street were similarly raised during the summer. July 29 the Kent and Ottawa Council of the Patrons of Husbandry met in this city, and on August i8 they held a grand picnic at the fair ground. I875. January 20, -the Public Library Rooms in the Ledyard Block were formally opened and dedicated, also the rooms, in the same block, of the Young Men's Christian Association, and the Ladies' Literary Club. February 8 a "cold cycle" was experienced, thermometers on the lower levels of the city ranging from 30~ to 35~ below zero. April I4 the Michigan Soldiers' I I CENTENNIAL ARCH, CAMPAU PLACE. CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF INDEPENDENCE DAY. 133 and Sailors' Association held their sixth reunion in this city, at which were present representatives of nearly every regiment that went to the war from this State. The Governor and several members of his staff were present, the local military company paraded, the bands played patriotic music, and there was a grand banquet in the evening in the spacious warerooms of the Berkey & Gay Company, on Canal street. Several regimental reunions were held at the same time, at other halls in the city. Work began in April on the Tower Clock Block, at the foot of Monroe street. July 29 the I876. The year came in with a moderate temperature and rising wind, which in the evening of the New Year increased to a gale, and played numerous pranks with loose property about town. Fences were flattened out, and a number of unfinished buildings were blown over. A count made in the early part of January showed 240 saloons in the county, of which I85 were in the city. Accounts of buildings erected the previous year footed up 442, of which 258 were dwellings, and 48 were brick stores. Odd Fellows' Hall, in the Tower Clock block, was dedicated January 17. The very CENTI:'NN IAI. ARCH1, \VFSI' BR ID(;.: II;T ilI N; ALSO, THE BURII~NED) I)ISj'IRICTr HEIIUII.I. street railway to Reeds Lake was completed. The most destructive of the fires of this year occurred June g9, on West Bridge street, at which buildings on both sides and for some distance north and south of that thoroughfare, chiefly business blocks and stores, were burned. The fire extended from the bridge west to Turner street. Most prominent among the buildings destroyed was Turner (or Lincoln) Hall, a brick block; the rest were mostly wood buildings. A large number of families were burned out, and sixty-two buildings were destroyed, with but little insurance. 'This, at that time, was the main business center of the west side. moderate temperature this winter was a subject of remark, the lowest reported being 22 above zero, on the second of February. In March new iron was laid down for the street railway tracks. April 24, banks and stores began to use silver in making change, and the new currency was welcomed by the people, who had been deprived of the use of silver for about fifteen years. May 3I, the Michigan Barrel Works, on upper Canal street, north of Leonard, were seriously damaged by fire, throwing 200 men and boys temporarily out of employment. The burned portion of the works was quickly rebuilt. The Centennial Celebration of Independence Day, July 4, was grand and 134 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. enthusiastic. The citizens had spent a week in brief and patriotic preparation, regardless of labor and expense. On Campau Place was erected an elaborate "Centennial Arch," rising fifty-six feet from base to the first plate, and above that to a total height of eighty-four feet. At the base its width was sixty-six feet, and the columns were twelve feet in thickness. This again was divided into three arches, the center one thirty-six feet high and thirty feet wide at the bottom, and the side arches eighteen feet high and seven feet wide. The entire structure was dressed in evergreens, cedar twigs wound in ropes, the inside having red, white and blue strips intertwined with evergreens; the whole beautifully and profusely decorated with flags, paintings, mottoes and flowers. On the face fronting Canal street was the State Seal of Michigan, painted on canvas, and below this, "Hallelujah For One Hundred Years." Various patriotic pictures, names and mottoes were arranged from arch to base. At the top, on the Monroe street face, was a statue representing Michigan as a female figure bearing a shield, with arm extended, pointing to the motto, "God and My Right," and below this were numerous other patriotic devices and sayings. Fine structures were also erected to arch Canal and West Bridge streets. There was an immense crowd in the city that day, people from outside being estimated at more than twenty thousand. In the street procession, or march, appeared about thirty local organizations. They moved through the principal streets of the city to the park, where an oration was delivered by the Hon. Thomas B. Church. Bands of music, civil and military, assisted to enliven the day, and in the evening was a fine display of fireworks. July 28 there was a serious fire on the south side of Monroe street, below Waterloo, in the Rathbun House and the Lyon and Botsford blocks, by which Edward T. Parish lost his life. A careful weather observer published the statement that this was the hottest July since I838, the mean temperature being 74~. August 28, a building on the northwest corner of Fourth and Stocking streets, used for a grocery and dwelling, was burned. Charles Swain, Foreman of the Hook and Ladder Company,-rushed into the burning building, seized a keg of powder and carried it out, thus preventing an explosion, though it was so hot as to scorch his hands. The first fair of the Michigan State Horse Breeders' Association was held in this city, beginning September 7 and lasting through the week. A union fair of the Kent County Agricultural and Grand River Valley Horticultural Societies began October 3, and was held four days. I877. An interesting incident of Jahuary, was the shipment, on the I ith, by the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad of a car load of supplies for needy homesteaders in the northern part of this Peninsula. These were contributed by the benevolent people of this city, and consisted of provisions, cloths and clothing. Mrs. Emily Campau, widow of Toussaint Campau, made claim to a dower interest in the first Campau plat, on the ground that she was a minor at the time when that property was deeded by herself and husband to Louis Campau, about forty years before. The claim was easily settled by a subscription on the part of the holders, of $2,500, which she accepted and gave a deed of release. Of this sum the city subscribed $55. The property consisted of some thirty acres, through which Monroe street runs, in the business center of the town. January 23, the Masonic Grand Lodge of Michigan, and the Grand Lodge of the Knights of Pythias of Michigan, held sessions in Grand Rapids. July 6, a terrific thunder storm, with heavy rain and high wind, passed over the town. It lasted nearly an hour, during which a number of buildings were struck by lightning in and about the city, and considerable damage was done by the wind and rain. The filling and grading of the road-bed of the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad across Saddlebag Swamp, three miles east of the city, was completed about this time. The filling, done with timbers, sand and gravel, was sixty feet deep, and about half a mile long. This is the point where, when the road was constructed in i858, the track, and part of a construction train, fell in and disappeared in an underground lake. Beginning July 26, the second regiment of Michigan State Troops held its annual encampment for drill and instruction at Reeds Lake. Members of the Vermont Society celebrated the centennial anniversary of the Battle of Benningtbn, August I6, at Sweet's Hotel. The oration was delivered by the Hon. William A. Howard, after which came a banquet, or PHONOGRAPH-HEAT AND DROUTH-TELEPHONE. 135 New England dinner. The Michigan Conference of the Methodist Episcopal church held its annual session, beginning September 5, in Grand Rapids. The second union fair of the Kent County Agricultural and Grand River Valley Horticultural Societies, held during four days of the closing week of September, on the fair grounds adjoining the city, was a very fine exposition. October i, several Holland families in this town celebrated, at the residence of Jacob Quintus, the thirtieth anniversary of their landing in America, with the Van Raalte colony. October 4, a State Convention of Universalists, and October II, a State Convention of Baptists, was held in Grand Rapids. November 5, snow fell to a depth of three or four inches, and some of the citizens displayed their cutters and sleighbells. I878. The fifth annual convention of County Superintendents of the Poor, of the State, was held in this city, beginning January 8, I878, and holding three days. Its discussions were in relation to pauperism, tramps, charities, and kindred topics. Mrs. S. L. Withey, of this place, read a very interesting paper on Woman's Work in Charity. January 17, a session of the Grand Lodge of the Sons of Industry was held here. January 29, an attempt was made to burn the jail. Twenty-nine prisoners were confined there, one of whom, it was supposed, set the building on fire. The annual communication of the Grand Lodge I. 0.0. F. of Michigan, convened in Luce's Hall February g9, and lasted three days. This spring the people were surprised by the appearance, occasionally, of a new silver dollar. The week ending Sunday, April 28, was marked by a very unusual amount of rain-fall, reported by Prof. Streng at 4.02 inches. For several years previous the average for the entire month of April had been only 2.68 inches. The phonograph, or "Edison's talking machine," as it was called, was shown here, its first appearance, in the beginning of July. July i6 and 17 were set down as the hottest days on record up to that time, some thermometers marking as high as from 97`' to Io04~ during the midheat. Several sunstrokes were reported, but none fatal. On Sunday, July 28, there was an immense temperance mass meeting in Fulton Street Park. Two hundred and fifty kegs of beer from St. Louis, came into town August 5, ostensibly to assist at the "grand opening" of Christ's Hall on Ottawa street. At the end of August and early in September, the citizens, through a relief committee, of which Thomas D. Gilbert was chairman, were active in raising money for the sufferers from yellow fever at the South; $3,550 were thus raised in the city and forwarded. That very intelligent individual, "the oldest inhabitant," reported the water in the channel of Grand River the lowest he had ever seen. Flour was shipped this year to England, by the Crescent Mills, from Grand Rapids. About three thousand barrels of apples were shipped from this point for the same market. The seventh annual reunion of the Old Third Infantry was held at Sweet's Hotel, December I4. It was attended by a very large throng of citizens and guests. About two hundred sat at the banquet table in the evening. 1879. The country hereabout was covered with a deep mantle of snow in January. On the 4th of that month it was chronicled that snow had fallen daily for twenty.-six days. The Knights of Honor held a Grand Lodge session in the Tower Clock block, February i and i2, at which ninety-five lodges in the State were represented by upward of i30 delegates and officers. The Vermont Society held a reunion at Sweet's Hotel, February i8. The resumption of specie payment at the beginning of this year, the appearance in circulation of gold and silver and regular paper currency at par, tended to create a cheerful feeling in all quarters. Business revival, however, was steady and progressive rather than sudden and speculative. The General Association of the Congregational Churches of Michigan held its thirty-eighth annual meeting in this city, beginning May 2i, and lasting four days. This was followed, May 25, by the fifth annual convention of the Western Michigan Diocese of the Protestant Episcopal Church, lasting four days. Decoration day exercises and ceremonies included a large meeting in Fulton Street Park, and an eloquent oration by the Rev. Washington Gardner. Telephone exchange service was begun about this time through the employment of messenger boys. It was estimated that Grand Rapids buyers purchased about I,200,000 pounds of wool this season. A fine and successful exposition 136 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. was the first fair of the Western Michigan Agricultural and Industrial Society, which opened September 22 on the fair ground. The second annual exhibition of women's work at the Y. M. C. A. rooms was an interesting event at the end of October. The month of October was remarkable for its extremes of temperature-almost midsummer heat in the early part, and several times freezing in the latter half. But in the middle of November there were thunder storms, and dandelions were in bloom. The most destructive fire of this year was in the wagon and sash, door and blind factories of Harrison, of Ward & Co., and others, below the bridge, on the 5th of June, which threw nearly 200 mechanics out of employment. Another fire was the burning, for the second time, of the Powers & Walker coffin factory, December 17, near the west end of Pearl street bridge. It was a year of general good health, and of steady and material prosperity. Much building was done in nearly all parts of the city. i88o. A State Sanitary Convention was held in this city February i8, and discussed various topics relating to the general subject of health conservation. The old wood building on Coldbrook, below the settling basin, that had been the pioneer grist-mill in that quarter of the city, was demolished, February 28, by a gale of wind. In the middle of March the collapse of a "wheat deal," speculation in options and otherwise, bringing heavy losses upon several Grand Rapids parties, and almost financial ruin to some, created intense excitement for a few weeks. July 7 about 350 old residents, ladies and business men, made an excursion to Grand Haven on the Steamer Barrett, and returned by railroad. In the early morning of September 2 the force main of the water works, leading to the reservoir, burst, on the side of the sand hill, and the water in the reservoir, about 4,000,000 gallons, was discharged, coming down the hill like a cataract, doing much damage in its course across Ionia and Ottawa streets. A number of the sufferers were afterward reimbursed at the expense of the city. Friday night, October 15, the Steamer Alpena, on her passage from Grand Haven to Chicago, carrying about sixty passengers, was lost with all on board. Christoph Kusterer, Frederick Spaeth, and George Hottinger, of this city, perished in that disaster. A terrific wind storm prevailed all the next day, doing much damage to other shipping on the lakes, and occasioning great additional loss of life. November 23 the ladies of the city presented to the Grand Rapids Guard (military company) a silk banner four and a half by six feet in size, heavily trimmed with bullion fringe, gold cord and tassel, and costing upward of $200. The Hebrew ladies of the city held a unique and very successful fair during the week beginning December 6, in Luce's Hall. The New England Society celebrated Forefathers' Day with a banquet at Sweet's Hotel. During this year, it was remarked by the press at its close, the manufactures and trade of the city were enlarged and extended more than ever before in a single year. And its growth was substantial and great in all useful directions. The surrounding country was blest with bounteous harvests and encouraging returns for honest industries and wise economies. I88I. The second annual convention of the Michigan Undertakers' Association met in Grand Rapids, January 12. At this session they changed their name to Funeral Directors' Association. March 5, broken ice floating in the river carried out a part of the east end of Bridge street bridge. About the end of April a State Telephone Exchange was organized, taking in Grand Rapids as one of the exchange centers. June 29 an experimental test of electric tower lights was made. Eight Brush lanterns of 2,000 candle power each were lighted at the top of a tower, near the corner of Pearl and Ottawa streets, two hundred and two feet above the level of Canal street, and were kept burning during the evening. The experiment was repeated several times during the following months, but resulted in a decision not to adopt the tower system. July 2 the news of the assassination of President Garfield occasioned intense excitement, which continued, with only occasional temporary abatement, until his death, September I9. There was a scene of general mourning on the receipt of the news of this latter event, September 20; fire and church bells were tolled, the public and many private buildings were draped in black; flags drooped at half-mast; the hum of business subsided, and the people gathered in knots, to commune in relation to the common affliction. On that evening an immense GARFIELD FUNERAL-ELECTRIC LIGHT-HEAVY RAINS. 137 meeting was held at Saenger Hall, for the public expression of the general sorrow over the Nation's bereavement. Again, on the 27th, a vast congregation held funeral services on the public square, at which an oration was delivered by Hon. Charles W. Watkins, at the instance of the Grand Army of the Republic. The Western Associated Press held a meeting in this town, August 17. at which delegates were present representing about thirty daily papers, of eight or ten Western States. Its business was mainly with relation to the gathering and furnishing of telegraphic news. The Peninsular Saengerbund held a grand musical "fest" in Saenger Hall, beginning August 23, lasting three days, and closing with a picnic and ball. It drew crowded audiences and was ain occasion of great musical enthusiasm. On Sunday, August 28, J. W. Boynton,with a large force of men, extended the West Side Street Railway from the foot of Pearl up Monroe to Waterloo street, making a second track in Monroe street. William Brooks and Michael McNamara were killed, and two other men were badly injured, by the explosion of a blast in Noble & Company's plaster quarry, November 21. Forest fires, beginning the first week of September, in the east part of the State, and raging over a vast extent of country in the Saginaw valley and toward Lake Huron, caused terrible suffering and much destruction of life and property. In this city a relief movement was started, and carried on by associative action during the fall. Business men, capitalists, and citizens generally, according to their respective means, contributed liberally, and many thousands of dollars and large quantities of supplies of provisions, clothing, farm implements, and other articles, were sent to the sufferers. The opening of the Peninsular Club December 20, and the Forefathers' Day reunion of December 22, together with the Christmas festivities, gave a fitting close to the social events of the year. 1882. Prominent among social events were a reception given at his new home by the Rev. George D. Gillespie, January 5, and a masquerade by the Pakotin Club in the evening of the following day. Another brilliant social gathering was that of a party given January I, at Sweet's Hotel, by Mr. and Mrs. Henry Spring and daughter. In the beginning of April, the Fuller Electric Light was introduced, at the Michigan Iron Works. In a pedestrian contest, which ended March 25, in Saenger Hall, Charles A. Harriman walked 352 miles in 00 hours. At another, which ended April 22, G. E. Pierson walked ioo miles in 272 hours. The walking amusement continued till May 22, when Saenger Hall was burned. The first annual festival of the Central Michigan Turn Bezirk, was held at Turner Hall in this city, beginning July 23, and continuing three days. There was much rain this season; the rain-fall from April i to August I8, measuring i6.63 inches. The Redmond Grand Opera House was opened September i8. The Fuller electric light was turned on in a forty-light circuit, October i. The annual fair of the Western Michigan Agricultural and Industrial Society held here in the last week of September was an exceptionally fine and successful exposition. October 5, a car-load of specimens of the products of the Northern Pacific Railroad region was on exhibition at the Union Depot in this city, objects of general interest and admiration. I883. A Grand Army Camp fire Reunion January 2o; deep snows, cold weather, blockaded trains, the appointment of Joseph Henry Richter to be Bishop of Grand Rapids, January 25; and the Burns banquet on the evening of the same day, enlivened the first month of I883; to which might be added a grand charity ball at the Morton House for the benefit of St. Mark's Home, January 22. In February the citizens raised and sent, through Fred. Loettgert, $1,420 for the relief of sufferers by floods in Germany. The consecration of the Rev. Joseph Richter, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Grand Rapids, at St. Andrew's Cathedral, April 22, brought together the largest assembly of the kind ever seen in this city, from all parts of the State. On Decoration Day there was a large procession, with exercises and an oration in the Park, and the usual strewing of flowers over the soldiers' graves. The members of Champlin Post G. A. R., formally dedicated a lot which had been given them by the city in Greenwood cemetery. July 2 the Custer Guards dedicated their armory, when the ladies of the \Vest Side presented them with a banner that cost $300. June I8, occurred a thunder storm in which the rain-fall was 2.4 inches; and the precipitation for the 138 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. month to that date was 6.46 inches-more than had been known in the whole month of June for many years. The June rains so raised the streams hereabout as to do much damage to highways, bridges, railroad culverts and crops. The river in the beginning of July, was nearly to the top of the banks through the heart of the city, and overflowed at the low lands below. The rain-fall of June and July was nearly 20 inches, and the result was a great freshet. Logs in the river above the rapids were banked against the upper railroad bridge, a heavy iron structure, and overturned three spans in the center, about one-half of the bridge, into the water below the piers. The logs thus released, estimated at about ioo,ooo,ooo feet in round numbers, went tumbling over the rapids, and carried off the other two railroad bridges near the lower part of the city. This was on July 26. The city bridges were left standing; Leonard street bridge unhurt, the others somewhat injured. Much damage was done to the mills, factories and other buildings along the canals and river banks. The entire jam of logs went through the city in about an hour and a half. Basements along Canal street were flooded, much of the lower part of the city was submerged, and generally the river intervals from Ionia to Grand Haven were overflowed. The repairing and rebuilding of bridges was accomplished as fast as men and money could do it; the upper railroad bridge was in place again August io, and in a few weeks business proceeded as before. The direct money damages were immense, but never closely estimated. W. L. Coffinberry, from observations personally made by him, and data which he had preserved, expressed the opinion that the flood of 1852 was about 14 inches higher than this one of 1883. The colored people to the number of 500 or 600, celebrated Emancipation Day August i, with public exercises at the fair grounds. A party of municipal excursionists from Detroit visited the city August 6, and were cordially welcomed, treated and toasted. October 6, the German citizens celebrated the bicentennial of the first German colony in America, that of the thirteen Quaker families who founded Germantown, now a part of Philadelphia. There was a fine display of trades in the street parade, where samples of ancient and modern domestic productions and manufactures were curiously mixed, and displayed together. The procession was nearly two miles long. There were exercises at Arbeiter Hall, including music and an oration, and the festivities closed with a grand ball and an illumination in the evening. The festivities of the year were rounded out by the reunions of the Old Third Infantry and the New Englanders, in December. i884. Among interesting society events was the annual reunion of Old Residents, January 22, at the Morton, and the Burns Festival, January 25, at the Bridge Street House. Between the two, January 23, there was a convention of the Funeral Directors of the State, at which proceedings were enlivened, as far as might be, by speeches and essays on embalming and other funereal topics. The Third Michigan Cavalry held a reunion, February 22, in Grand Rapids, and on the 25th a brilliant society event was the opening by the Peninsular Club of its new Club House. At this date the citizens had raised by contribution, and sent to Cincinnati, Columbia, and Portsmouth, Ohio, and Newport, Kentucky, about $4,250, for the relief of sufferers by the then recent Ohio River floods. March 12 the Bissell Carpet Sweeper factory and four other buildings, in which nine different branches of manufacture were carried on, situated between the river and the lower end of the east side canal, were burned. The formal observance of Decoration Day included an address by the Reverend Henry Powers, and a general suspension of business. A small yacht was launched near the lower end of the city, June 5-a sloop-rigged vessel, twenty-five feet over all, seven feet beam, with iron keel. She was named Grand Rapids Eagle, commanded by A. B. Turner, Jr., and designed for coasting down the Lake Michigan shore. June 19 there was a gathering of nearly 4,000 people at the basket picnic of the Old Residents at Reeds Lake. There was a fine exhibit at the annual fair of the Western Michigan Agricultural and Industrial Society, during the closing week of September. A meeting of the Hotel Keepers' Association of Michigan, in the city, October 8, brightened the faces of the landlords. Of the fund for the Michigan exhibits at the New Orleans Exposition, $600 was subscribed by five citizens of Grand Rapids-Amasa B. Watson, Thomas D. Gilbert, Julius Houseman, Delos A. Blodgett, FRESHET —LABOR TROUBLES-SOLDIERS' MONUMENT. 139 and Harvey J. Hollister. On Thanksgiving Eve $690 worth of provisions, contributed by citizens, was distributed among the worthy poor of the town. A series of revival meetings, conducted by the "Evangelists" Whipple and McGranahan, began in the middle of November and continued through that month. At the World's Exposition in New Orleans, opened in December, Grand Rapids manufacturers had a separate building, which they called the Grand Rapids Furniture Pavilion. This was the only city having a separate building there. Upward of twenty firms participated in that exhibition. There was discussion and agitation on the question of the relation of capital to labor in December, but no serious disturbance occurred. 1885. In the beginning of this year there were two sources of general interest and excitement. A freshet which started in December reached its culminating point about the fifteenth of January, when the water in the river was several inches higher than in the great sulmmer flood of I883. Broken ice from above lodged against the ice below the rapids which was yet unbroken, creating apprehensions of disastrous results. But the water cut a channel through the center, leaving high banks of ice on either shore. The freshet subsided with damage estimated at less than $00oo,ooo in the city. The other exciting event was a general reduction in wages by the employers in the city; less than ten per cent. in the average, but causing many workmen and some factories to suspend work for a time. About the middle of the month there were large numbers of unemployed people in the streets, and a meeting of the citizens was held to devise means for their relief. This resulted in the organization of an employment bureau, with committees to obtain situations for as many as possible. The County Superintendents and the City Director of the Poor had many more to care for than usual. The distress was greater from lack of employment among day laborers than among mechanics. About the same time the Knights of Labor had organized a boycott against the street railway, and carryalls were running in opposition to the street cars. The city authorities co-operated with the citizens in efforts for relief, and within two months matters were running smoothly again, with work for all at living wages. The annual convention of the Protestant Episcopal church for the Western Diocese of Michigan, was held here, beginning June 3, with a full representation of delegates. Excavations for the machinery of the cable street railway were begun the first week in June. The State Arbeiter Bund held its annual convention June 9, at Arbeiter Hall. The Old Residents had a pleasant picnic at the lake June I8. The American Pomological Society held its twentieth biennial meeting, beginning September 9, and lasting three days, in this city. Delegates were present from twelve or fifteen States, and from Canada. September I6 and I7, were notable galadays. The Society of the Army of the Cumberland held its reunion here, and on the same occasion were reunions of the Mexican War Veterans, the Sons of Veterans, the Old Third Infantry, the Fourteenth and the Twenty-first Infantry, and the First Michigan Engineers and Mechanics. An address of welcome was made by Governor Russell A. Alger, to which General Philip H. Sheridan responded, and other orations were delivered by General R. D. Mussey, Senator Thomas W. Palmer, and Hon. B. H. Cochran, of Toledo. On the same occasion the ceremony of unveiling the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument on the triangular Park by the head of Monroe street, took place, at which the presentation address was made by the Hon. Thomas D. Gilbert, the acceptance by Gen. Byron R. Pierce, and the oration by the Hon. Charles W. Watkins in behalf of the Grand Army of the Republic. The air was vocal with military music, there was a fine procession in the streets, and the exercises closed with a military banquet at Luce's Hall. It was estimated that there were more than 30,000 visitors in the city. September 21, a car-load of products of the State of Oregon was on exhibition here, and in that week was held a very successful fair of the Western Michigan Agricultural and Industrial Society. The Michigan conference of the Methodist Episcopal church began September 24, and was in session five days. November i8, the annual meeting of the State Law and Order League was held at the Eagle Hotel. At a meeting of sympathizers with Ireland, held the same evening at Redmond's Grand Opera House, $I, Ioo was contributed to the Parnell fund. The State Grange held a crowded public meeting, December io, at 140 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Armory Hall. During this year, it was estimated that over $,ooo, ooo had been used in building operations here. i886. An interesting event in business circles was the opening of the Bank Clearing House, January 8, making that a "red letter day" in the history of Grand Rapids banking. rhere was agitation of the labor question in the latter part of April, resulting in a partial adjustment between employers and employes, May i, as to wages and hours of work, but in the following week numbers of men in several factories reconsidered and organized a strike. Their demands were for eight hours to constitute a day's work, without a reduction of wages. A compromise was effected, and the wheels of industry moved on as before. On Decoration Day occurred the usual ceremonies in tribute to the memory of departed soldiers, with an oration by William J. Stuart. The regatta of the Northwestern Amateur Rowing Association, at Reeds Lake, the first one held on those waters, drew thousands of people there July 12 and 13. The Michigan Grand Council of the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association held a session here, which lasted three days, beginning August 10. September 14 our city was visited by a delegation of I, i00 officers, business men, professional men, and ladies, from Saginaw, who were accorded a hearty official and civic reception. September 17, the corner-stone of the Wealthy avenue Baptist church was laid. The annual agricultural and industrial fair week, beginning September 20, was one of great enjoyment, with large attendance and a fine exposition. September 21, at a convention of delegates of the trade, held here, a State Grocers' Association was formed. The Presbyterian Synod of Michigan held a session here, beginning October I3. October 27 Germania Hall was dedicated. I887. Among leading early events was the organization of a company, January 15, to bore a deep well-3,ooo feet, more or less, as circumstances might determinefor which the contract was let January 25, with the hope of striking gas. The Old Residents held their winter reunion January i8; from the 20th to the 26th a poultry show proved an attractive exposition; and in the same week a convention was held of the State Engineers' Society in the Superior Court room. A convention of the Michigan Business Men's Association met March 15, in Arcanum Hall, and for two days discussed nearly every department of trade and methods of trading, from banking and wholesaling to peanut peddling; also feasted and toasted and danced at Sweet's Hotel. During the next two days the State Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic, at the Redmond Grand Opera House, was the leading attraction. The Widdicomb building was finished, and largely occupied at the end of March. The association known as the Traveling Men of Michigan began a two-days encampment May I3, in Arcanum Hall. Memorial day was stormy, but the turnout, parade, services at Fulton Street Park, and the usual tribute of decoration, were attended to by the unforgetful people. The Old Residents held their annual picnic at Reeds Lake June I7. Thomas B. Church delivered an address, and speeches were made by others. On the 23d of June a large number of Old Residents gave a surprise party to Mrs. Harriet Burton, it being the 74th anniversary of her birth, and the 54th of her arrival in Grand Rapids. June 30, the Pioneer Society of Ada held a picnic at that village, and the ceremony of unveiling the monument to Rix Robinson took place. They were joined by a delegation of Old Residents of Grand Rapids. Thomas B. Church delivered the oration, and addresses were made by John R. Robinson, John T. Holmes, and others. July 19-20 the annual regatta of the Northwestern Amateur Rowing Association at Reeds Lake drew crowds of people. The annual show at the fair grounds, week of September 19-24, was unprecedented in attendance, as shown by the gate receipts. November 8 occurred the death of Cornelius Coughlin, aged ioi years, a native of Ireland, who had lived in Grand Rapids fourteen years. He was a tailor, and could see to thread a needle without the aid of glasses when he was i00oo ears old. Much was done in the erection of buildings this year. Among the prominent brick or stone and brick structures built were: The Derby, Hartman Hall and Shepard block, north half of Houseman block, Edison Electric Light station, new works of the Gas Company, Kennedy block, Winegar Block, Fuller Block on South Division, Weston Block rebuilt, Ladies' Literary Club House, the Livingston, Belknap wagon CABLE CARS-FATAL ACCIDENTS-BURGLARY. 141 factory, Kendall Block at the head of Monroe street, and others; besides a fifth story to the Morton House. i888. The Catholics of the city celebrated the first day of January as the fiftieth anniversary of the ordination to the priesthood of Pope Leo XIII. They had an imposing street procession, and Pontifical Mass at St. Andrew's Cathedral. The Association of Michigan Millers held a convention at the Morton House, February 8, which was attended by delegates from nearly all parts of the State. The workingmen had a large gathering at the Wonderland Theater, February 23, and listened to an address by Samuel Gompers, of New York, President of the American Federation of Trades Unions. The murder of Henry M. Powers occurred March i. The April election was warmly contested, and an unsuccessful effort was made by parties who charged that something was wrong, to have a recount of the vote given for Mayor. According to the returns I. M. Weston received nine majority. April io the Grand Rapids Guard gave a reception to Governor Luce. The putting in place of the steel wire cable of the Valley City Street and Cable Railway Company, April 13, was an event of public interest. The grip cars ran over the Lyon street track April i6, and began regular trips a few days later. A meeting of millers and grain dealers at Sweet's Hotel, April I9, organized a Western Grain Association. The funeral of Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Town, who were killed at a western railroad accident, was held in the Universalist Church, May i. Beginning May 15, the Grand Commandery of Michigan held a session in Grand Rapids. On Memorial Day there was a street procession and gathering at the park, orations, and the usual decoration of soldiers' graves at the cemeteries. June 20 G. B. Bouma, a milk peddler, was killed by the cars at the Bartlett street crossing. The Good Templar Lodges of Kent county held a quarterly session in this city, June 27. The local military companies attended the annual encampment of State Militia at Mackinac Island, in July. The Northwestern Amateur Rowing Association had a regatta at Reeds Lake, beginning July 24. The Michigan Holiness Association held a campmeeting, beginning the first week in August, in a grove near the corner of Lyon street and Grand avenue. The Grand Army men of western and northern Michigan had a meeting in this city, September 9. The citizens presented three handsome flags tc Custer Post. The Michigan Bankers' Association held its annual meeting in this city, September I3. The annual fair, in the third week of September, drew a large attendance. The Seventh Day Adventists held their annual State camp-meeting, beginning September 25, on grounds near Sherman street, east of the city line. Major Amasa B. Watson died suddenly, September i8, in the cars at the Union Depot. There was a very large concourse at his funeral, Sunday, September 23. The town was full of people September 26, when the new City Hall was dedicated. September 30 Roy Cummings fell from the stand-pipe of the Hydraulic Company, and was killed. A delegation of about 400 citizens went to Indianapolis, October 3, to visit General Harrison. Hon. James G. Blaine visited the city, October 8, and addressed the people in Hartman's Hall. The Democrats had a large mass meeting October 12, and speaking at Hartman's Hall by Hon. Charles W. Jones, of Florida, and others. Political excitement ran high this month, with daily and nightly meetings by both parties, in the city and about the county. The election, November 6, passed quietly, and without notable incident, except that it was a surprise to nearly everybody in the change which the vote showed from the Democratic to the Republican party, over which the latter held an enthusiastic celebration, with illuminations and a street parade, November 14. The National Polish Aid Society dedicated its hall on Jackson street, November 21. November 26, Frank Corwin was killed by the cars, a little south of the city. The Seventh Annual Conference of County Agents, and a Convention of the State Boards of Corrections and Charities, commencing December 4, were held in this city. December 19 the Old Third Michigan Infantry held a reunion at the Bridge Street House. Locally, in matters of fire and other disasters by the elements, the year 1888 was comparatively an uneventful one. i889. There was a small burglary at the Postoffice, January 4, when some $500 in stamps and a few registered letters were taken from the safe. January 29, a convention held here of furniture manufacturers of 142 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. the United States formed a "National Furniture Manufacturers' Association." The annual Grand Lodge meeting of the A. 0. U. W. was held here February 5, with a banquet at Hartman's Hall. February 9, there was an exhibition of California products, on cars at the Union Depot. February i8, occurred the annual meeting of the Michigan Grand Lodge of I. 0. 0. F. in Hartman's Hall, the session lasting' three days; also meeting of the Daughters of Rebekah. February 26, the Grand Lodge of Chosen Friends held a session at Red Men's hall on West Bridge street. March 8, Cornelius E. Plugge was arrested to be sent to Holland, Europe, to answer to a charge of forgery. On examination in that country he was discharged and returned. April 30 was observed as a national holiday-the centennial of National Government under the Constitution. Buildings were decorated, and public services held in several churches. May 14, convention of the order of Red Men-thirty-four lodges of the State were represented. May 20, Masonic parade, and layingj of the corner-stone of the Masonic Home, at Reeds Lake. Fred. J. Morrison, Deputy City Clerk, died June 2. June 22, Old Residents' picnic at the Lake; address relative to the pioneer settlement, by George H. White. July 4, corner-stone of county building laid; large procession through the streets. In the second week of July were horse races at the fair grounds, and the twenty-second annual convention of the Michigan Press Association was held in Hartman's Hall. The twenty-first annual regatta of the Northwestern Amateur Rowing Association, August i and 2, drew large crowds to Reeds Lake. September i, Labor Day, was celebrated, by a street procession and exercises on the Fulton Street Park; orator, Henry A. Robinson, of Detroit; President of the Day, Charles A. Hauser. The annual Fair, and an exhibition ("Last Days of Pompeii") enlivened the closing days of September. October i8, visit of delegates to the International Conference of American States. They were shown the beauties of the city and the manufacturing establishments, under the auspices of the Board of Trade. Military reunions were held: Twenty-first Michigan Infantry, January io and October 8, at the Bridge Street House; First Michigan Cavalry, March 28, at same place; Seventeenth Michigan Cavalry, September 25, at Hartman's Hall, with banquet at the Eagle Hotel. Among the serious accidents of the year were: The killing by the street cars of Robert Gamble and Levi Van der Moere, August I6; Samuel Campbell, September 3, and Peter Morse, September 8. Promi; nent among the amusements of the season was base ball playing. So far, a year of steady progress and prosperity. CHAPTER XII. THE OLD RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION OF THE GRAND RIVER VALLEY. THE young pioneers were growing old. The older ones were growing gray. And along the pathway of the original settlers, here and there, and often, some one of their numbl)er had stepped from their ranks and crossed the dark river, to be seen no more on this side. And so the pioneers began to realize that a quarter of a century had passed since they set their stakes and made their homes in this valley. The custom of preserving the remembrance of first things and of notable dates, by association and the institution of suitable festivities and anniversaries, is not only very ancient, but very useful and pleasurable and profitable. Naturally the minds of the early settlers of Grand Rapids turned toward social co-operation for such a purpose, and the following, as the result of a conference in relation to the matter, appeared in the daily papers of the date indicated: OLD SETTLERS' SOCIETY. Desiring to perpetuate the early history of Kent county, and to continue good social feelings among the remaining pioneers, we respectfully invite such of the present residents of the county as had settled in the Territory of Michigan previous to January 26, I837 (being the date of admission as a State), to meet with us at Messrs. BALL & MCKEE'S office, Monday evening, the 22d inst., at 7 o'clock P. M., to form an Old Settlers' Society for the county. Geo. Coggeshall. John Ball. Geo. Martin. Ant. Campau. John Almy. M. Ringuette. J. w. Peirce. John Ringuette. W. G. Henry. D. S. Leavitt. Jas. Lyman, S. F. Perkins. J. F. Godfroy. Rix Robinson. R. C. Luce. Charles Shepard. Robert Hilton. C. H. Taylor. A. 13. Turner. Nelson Robinson. D. W. Evans. S. L. Withey. Grand Rapids, Feb. i8, I858. The meeting was held as called. John Ball was chosen Chairman and Dan rW. Evans Secretary, and a committee was appointed to draft constitution and by-laws. This committee reported articles of association, providing that the organization should l)e called The Old Settlers Society of Kent County; the officers to be elected annually on the twenty-sixth of January. These for the first year were: President, Jonathan F. Chubb; Vice-President, Ezekiel W. Davis; Secretary, John W. Peirce; Treasurer, John Ball. So far the pioneers were associated under what seemed favorable auspices. And then for nearly ten years the members seemed to forget that their society needed concerted action in order to maintain an existence; and during that time only occasional and casual meetings of the Old Settlers were held. At the county fair in I867 was shown a picture group, made by Ira G. Tompkins, photographer, entitled "Pioneers of Grand Rapids," containing the photographs of sixty-three of the old residents, who came here prior to i843. At the next formal meeting of Old Settlers, February 29, i868, a committee was appointed to take charge of and preserve the picture, which had been presented to the society, and Mr. Tompkins was made an honorary member. Nearly all of those portraits, in a single frame, are now among the archives of the Old Residents Association. REORGANIZATION AN) CHANGE OF NAME. The original Old Settlers Society included only those who came into the Territory prior to the admission of Michigan as a State. The fact began to be apparent that a new organization was desirable to make it permanent and attractive in point of numbers. A meeting for that purpose was held at Sweet's Hotel, December 27, 187I, at which a committee was appointed to draft a new constitution and by-laws. At this meeting upward of eighty were in attendance. Ezekiel W. Davis was elected President, and Luman R. Atwater, Secretary, for the time being. At the next meeting, January 17, I872, the 144 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. reorganization was completed, by the adoption of a new constitution which enlarged the territory of the society, so as to include Ionia, Kent and Ottawa counties. It also changed the qualification for membership, to admit persons thirty-five years of age who had been for twenty-five years or more residents of the valley; the membership fees to be $i a year, and all special assessments. The annual meetings were to be held on the twenty-sixth day of January, or the next day when the twenty-sixth should fall on Sunday. An annual summer festival in the month of June was provided for, and since that time it has also been customary for the society to hold annual winter reunions at some convenient place within this city. At this meeting Rix Robinson was chosen President; John W. Peirce, Secretary, and Luman R. Atwater, Treasurer. January 26, i876, the name of the society was changed to Old Residents Association of the Grand River Valley, and the age of eligibility for membership was changed to forty-five years; time of residence twenty-five years as before. Largely increased in membership during the past dozen years, the annual meetings and festival gatherings of this society have been numerously attended, and greatly enjoyed. The winter reunion has been held at some one of the public hotels or halls of the city, usually at the Morton or at Sweet' s. Short speeches, reminiscences, general greetings and renewals of old acquaintanceship, banquets and dancing have been the marked features of the exercises on these occasions. The summer festivals have usually taken the form of basket picnic parties, and most of them have been held in or by the grove at Reeds Lake. There have been some exceptions. In I875 they met at the Carpenter Spring below the city, and on a more recent occasion at Tusch's Garden on West Bridge street. These picnic gatherings have been very pleasurable incidents, not only to the old settlers, but to hundreds of others up and down the valley, the invitations being generally extended to the families and friends of the members. There was an especially large and enjoyable meeting at Reeds Lake June 23, I883, the fiftieth anniversary of the arrival of the first Yankee family in Grand Rapids, also the seventieth birthday anniversary of "Aunt Hattie" Burton, who was one of that family. The principal officers of the society since 1872 have been: Presi dents-John Ball, elected in I875; Robert Hilton, I876, and for nine years following; Charles H. Taylor, i886; Charles Shepard, 1887, and since. Secretaries - Franklin Everett, 1875, and since that year Reuben H. Smith. Treasurer-Williain N. Cook, 1875, and five years following; Thomas D. Gilbert, I88i, and up to the present time. From I877 to i888 Leonard Covell was Marshal. January 26, 1889, John T. Holmes and Zenas G. Winsor were chosen Vice Presidents, and William N. Cook, Marshal.. The membership fees have been found sufficient to meet expenses, and keep a small balance in the treasury. No special assessment has been necessary. The expenses for suppers and entertainment at the winter reunions have been met by the sale of tickets. In the summer the picnic attendants have brought overloaded baskets, furnishing enough and to spare. A commendable feature of the exercises and duties of this society, which has been carefully and scrupulously attended to, is that of paying the last sad tribute of respect to departed members. The custom is, upon the death of a member, for a considerable number of the survivors to meet and together as a delegation attend the funeral. With a membership of several hundred early residents, all well advanced in years, it is but natural that these occasions should be frequent; while their observance serves as a morally healthful admonition. In the field peculiarly its own, the Old Residents Association of the Grand River Valley is among the most praiseworthy of our social institutions. Very few of the pioneer settlers of this valley are now living, but this society is by its terms self-perpetuating; and it has within it the means and the methods to be always a pleasureable and useful organization for those of maturer years. Prof. Franklin Everett has contributed, on many occasions, at the social gatherings of the Old Residents, to the entertainment in a literary way, generally in the form of a rythmical or poetic address. From one of these the following is taken: The old Primer gives us the picture of Time, As a reaper to harvest the land; His hour-glass poising with gesture sublime, Flying swift with his scythe in his hand. But the harvester, Time, is scattering seed, And watering with dew and showers. As he binds the ripe sheaves he is giving heed To the upspringing plants and flowers. OLD RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION-MEMBERSHIP ROLL 145 He is not a tyrant destroyer, who prides Himself on his poisonous breath; Nor the stern, dread Angel of Doom, who rides With the scythe and the besom of Death. Look around on this crowd. We miss, it is true, Here and there a patriarch gray; A Mother in Israel has gone from view, We miss them with sadness to-day. Their sands were run out, they passed from sight; Yet their impress is left behind. When out from our presence they took their flight, Their memory was stamped on mind. But look again! See the juvenile troop! See the man and his new-found brideOf the present and future the substance and hope, The strength, the reliance and pride. Generations are passing and coming along, And why should we lengthen their stay? The young will be old, as the old have been young; Let the old to the young give way. Wise laws rule the world-'tis the best that we know, Though faith, on the wings of desire, Mounts upward exultant, and basks in the glow Of regions serener and higher. Yet uncertain is faith, uncertain is hope, Uncertain is all the ideal; But certain to us is time's limited scope; This life, while we have it, is real. It is ours to enjoy-'tis blessed to live; And bright this fair world appears, With the solid enjoyments that time can give, And the loves that are crowning our years. You carping old sinner! because you are old, Long past the gay years of your prime, You feel yourself licensed to grumble and scold, And rail at the ravage of time. You've had your full years, and belong to the past, You are living on suff'rance to-day! Why fret if in fullness of days at last You must pass, like your fathers, away? 'Twas gracious in Time to let you aloneThat the reaper your life has spared; The whole he could give of life you have known; Its loves and its honors you've shared. Then why should you growl that now you are old, And the oil in your lamp is low; If by whitening locks and infirmity told That you soon will be summoned to go? Then gracefully bear, as a rational sage, What may be by Providence sent, Believing there's beauty and honor in age, If crowning a life well spent. As the ripened fruit, just ready to fall, Pure, manly old age appears. A beacon or star, a guide unto all, Are the veteran's virtuous years. Come, young and old, 'tis a festival day; Let boding to distance be flung, Cast aside all regrets, to soul give way, We all are, or else have been, young. To-day we are bound to live in the past, To go over the way we have trod; We have life at present-how long it will last We leave to the future and God. 10 One by one we step out, to be seen no more here; Are missed in the gathering throng; But our place will be full-as we disappear Our children are coming along. 'Tis graceful to live as a saint or a sage, Revered as one noble and high; 'Tis graceful again, in the ripeness of age, As the world's benefactor to die. Immortal, unconquered by death are they Who have left a dear memory behind; The body may pass, but the spirit will stay In the souls of the living enshrined. MEMBERSHIP ROIL. The following are the names of members of the Old Settlers Society and its successor, the Old Residents Association, from the date of organization to the end of the year i888: Abel, Carlos A. Abel, Julius C. Adams, Crayton N. Adams, Elisha M. Allen, George WV. Allen, Hiram H. Allen, Joseph W. Allen, Wright C. Almy, John Anderson, Ebenezer Anderson, William M. Angell, Crawford Antrim, Albert C. Armstrong, Charles N. Arnott, David Atwater, Luman R. Auble, J. Audrain, Robert A. Baars, J. Frederic Bacon, Adolphus N. Bailey, Gilbert G. Bailey, Sluman S. Baldwin, Simeon L. Ball, Byron D. Ball, Ebenezer M. Ball, John Ball, Sidney S. Ballard, James Barclay, Charles Barnard, William R. Barns, Ebenezer W. Barns, Jacob Barr, Robert M. Bates, Edward S. Baxter, Albert Baxter, Mrs. Joseph J. Belnap, John Bement, Leonard Benedict, Edward D. Bennett, Joseph H. Berkey, William A. Berles, Franz Blain, Joseph R. Blain, N. B. Blair, James Blake, Alexander Blake, Joseph Blakely, William I. Blodgett, C. Blood, Mary Blood, Merrick G. Blumrich, Mrs. Laura Boardman, F. D. Bole, John Borden, A. D. Borden, Baker Boxheimer, Frank Boyd, James Boyer, Mrs. Joshua Boynton, Jeremiah WV. Brady, John Bremer, Henry Brewer, Aaron Brewer, Lucien B. Briggs, Edward L. Brinsmaid, Charles G. Brown, James H. Brown, James W. Buchanan, John C. Buck, Seeley S. Budington,Washington I. Buell, L. Burchard, Carlos Burnett, David Burton, Barney Burton, Mrs. Harriet Bush, Daniel Bush, Octavius C. Butler, John Cady, Ebenezer H. Cady, Winthrop R. Calkins, Charles W. Calkins, John Campau, Adelphe T. Campau, Antoine, Campau, Denis L, Carnpau, Edward Campau, Mrs. Emily Cargill, Hawley N. Carrier, Edmund Champlin, John W. Childs, Henry B. Chipman, John Chipman, Oscar H. Chubb, Jonathan F. Church, Thomas B Clancy, John Clark, A. H. 146 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Clark, Benjamin Clark, John C. Clarke, L. D. Clay, David P. Clinton, Joseph S. Coffee, John Coffinberry, Andrew B. Coffinberry, Wright L. Coggeshall, George Coldren, Jacob Cole, Wilna Collins, Robert M. Colton, John B. Comstock, Charles C. Cook, William N. Cordes, Eberhart Cordes, John Costen, E. Covell, Leonard Covell, Phillip F. Creque, John I'. Crissma, John Crosby, Danford M. Cummings, Norman Daniels, George W. Dart, Elijah Davidson, Lewis C. Davis, Ebenezer Davis, Ezekiel W. Davis, Horace W. Davis, Isaac D. Davis, James N. Davis, John Davis, John S. Davis, R. E. Davis, Washington Davis, Ny. H. H. Dean, Charles B. Dean, Harry Deane, Gaius S. Deary, Thomas DeCamp, William H. Denison, W. C. Denton, Joseph DeYoung, Adrian Dickenson, George W. Dishman, Samuel 0. Dodge, George W. Dolbee, James D'Ooge, Leonard Dunham, Abner Dunnett, William Durfee, Allen Eastman, George Eaton, Benjamin C. Eaton, Charles W. Eaton, Harry Edie, J. Orton Edison, Enos Edison, George W. Edison, James R. Edison, John Elliott, John T. English, Edson Evans, Dan W. Evans, Ira W. Everett, Franklin Farr, John S. Ferguson, Mrs. A. Ferry, William M. Finn, Patrick Fisk, John W. Fisk, Nathaniel Fitch, George C. Fitch, James 0. Fletcher, Elson 0. Folger, Ebenezer Folger, John B. Foote, Obed H. Foster, Charles Fox, Cornelius Fox, John M. Fox, Perrin V. Fralick, Henry Friend, Mrs. Sarah Fuller, Samuel L. Ganoe, Jesse Gezon, John Jr. Gibbons, Thomas Gibson, Orson B. Gilbert, Thomas D. Godfrey, Silas F. Godfroy, John F. Godfroy, Richard Godfroy, William H. Godwin, Augustine Goodrich, Hiram C. Goodrich, Phillip M. Goodsell, Rier N. Granger, Julius Green, Martin Greenly Thomas W. Gregory, Emily G. Greiner, Charles Griggs, George W. Grinnell, Henry Guild, Horace H. Gunn, William S. Hake, William Haldane, William Hall, Harriet M. Hall, Lowell Hall, Silas Hamilton, Isaiah B. Hanchett, Benjamin S. Hanna, John M. Harlan, Joseph Harrington, John Harris, Myron Hart, John Hatch, Damon Haynes, Isaac Hefferan, Thomas Henderson, Adelaide M. Henry, William G. Herkner, Joseph C. Hill, E. G. Hills, Aaron Hills, Hollis R. Hills, Perry Hilton, Robert Hine, Milton B. Hinsdale, Henry W. Hinsdill, Chester B. Hinsdill, Henry M. Hinsdill, Hiram Hinsdill, William Hodenpyl, P. J. G. Hodges, Amos Hogadone, Henry C. Hogadone, John B. Holden, E. G. D. Holden, Josiah R. Hollister, Harvey J. Holt, Henry Hooker, George W. Hopkins, M. L. Horton, David Horton, Orsemus W. Houseman, Joseph Houseman, Julius Howard, Levi N. Howland, Samuel Howlett, N. R. Hunt, Edward H. Hunt, Simeon Huntly Emmons R. Huyck, WV. F. Hyde, Milton Hyde, Nathaniel C. Hyde, William A. Innes, William P. Ives, Harry H. Jarvis, A. L. Jenison, Hiram Jenison, Luman Jennings, Howard Jewett, Henry, Johnson, Adrian Johnson, George K. Johnson, Levi Johnson, Luther H. Johnson, Welcome W. Jones, Cyrus Jones, Ira Jones, Wilson Judd, Elliott E. Judd, Samuel Kelley, Foster Kelley, Lee Kellogg, Orson C. Kellogg, Truman Kendall, George Kendall, John Kennedy, James M. Kent, Mrs. Cyrus Kirkland, John Klijs, John Kingsbury, Solomon 0. Knapp, Erastus U. Knight, George L. Koch, William Konkle, Hollis Kruger, Charles Kusterer, Christoph Kusterer, Phillip Kutts, Frank F. Lamphere, Lester Laraway, David Laraway, William Ledyard, William B. Legard, James Leitelt, Adolph Leitelt, Edward Leonard, Heman Leonard, Julius Leppig, William LeRoy, William H. Lewitt, Benjamin Lindsey, John Livingston, James M. Loomis, Andrew Long, John R. Lucas, Thomas J. Luce, Abijah Luce, Benjamin Luce, Ransom C. Luther, George Luther, John Lyman, James Lyon, Charles D. Lyon, Edward Lyon, Farnham Lyon, James D. Lyon, Sanford W. Lyon, Truman H. Lyon, Truman H., Jr. Lyon, Mrs. Truman H. McConnell, Daniel McCray, Gilbert M. McGurrin, Patrick McKee, James H. McKenzie, Mrs. Jane Manning, James L. Marsh, Edward S. Martin, George Mattison, Franklin Mead, Lafayette Meech, Asa W. Messmore, Isaac E. Miller, Charles Miller, David Miller, James Miller, John T. Miller, Mrs. Samuel Mills, Elnathan Miner, Jerome Moore, George I. Moore, Lovell Morey, Chester S. Morman, William Morrison, Jefferson Mosterdik Leonard Morton, John Muir, John Naysmith, Henry R. Naysmith, Jay D. Neal, Carlton Nelson, Ezra T. Nelson, George K. Page, Abel T. Page, John S. Page, Loren M. Palmerlee, Heman Parker, Joel C. Parks, Robert S. Parks, William R. Parrish, Isaac H. Parsons, Mrs. William S. Patten, Lyman E. Patterson, Chauncey Patterson, James Patterson, John Patterson, Miner Paul, James A. Paul, John Peake, Lemuel Pearsall, Orlando K. Pearsall, Sherman M. Pease, Chapin OLD RESIDENTS-JUNIOR OLD SETTLERS. 147 Peirce, John W. Peirce, Peter R. L. Pelton, Chauncey Penney, Joseph Pennoyer, Henry Perkins, Samuel F. Pew, George H. Phillips, E. C. Phillips, John W. Phillips, Levi L. Phillips, William G. Pierce, B. T. Pierce, Edwin S. Pierce, George R. Pike, Abram W. Pitts, James L. Platt, Alonzo Platte, Anthony Platte, Fred Porter, David C. Porter, T. J. W. Porter, Thomas W. Post, Jared L. Post, Hoyt G Powell, John A. Powers, William H. Powers, W\illiam T. Pratt, Mrs. Asa Preston, C. D. Prince, Erie Quimby, Ichabod L. Quinn, John Quinn, Michael Quirk, Patrick Randall, Abram Randall, Claudius Randall, Horatio Ransom, James XV. Rathbone, A. D. Rathbun, Gouverneur B. Rathbun, Lansing K. Reed, Ezra Reed, Horace WV. Reed, Mrs. Lewis Reed, Osmond Reynolds, William H. Rice, Charles A. Rice, Eber Ridout, Ezra T. Richards, Alfred S. Richmond, Eliza J. Richmond, Mrs. Wm. A. Ridout, Ezra T. Ringuette, John Ringuette, Maxime Robens, Smith Roberts, Amos Roberts, Mrs. Amos Roberts, Edward H. Roberts, Peter Roberts, William 1). Robinson, Charles A. Robinson, George A. Robinson, James D. Robinson, John R. Robinson, Joseph F. Robinson, Nelson Robinson, Rix Rogers, E. M. Rogers, Justus C. Rood, Charles C. Rose, Mrs. Harvey K. Rosencrans, F. M. Rosenberg, John Roys, Myron Rumsey, James A. Ryerson, Martin Sach, Charles Salmon, Archibald Sargeant, James Sargeant, Thomas Saunders, Henry G. Saunders, William G. Sawyer, James Schemerhorn, Daniel Schemerhorn, George Schermerhorn, Isaac N. Schneider, Hugo Schroeder, George Scott, John C. Scranton, Leonidas S. Scranton, S. B. Scribner, Mrs. James Scribner, William R. Sessions, Rodney C. Seymour, Mrs. Henry Shackleton, G. J. Shepard, Charles Shoemaker Nicholas Shoemaker, Robert I. Shriver, Fred Sibley, Mrs. Aaron Simonds, James C. Sinclair, Robert P. Sinclair, Thompson Skeels, Dorr Skinner, Adolphus L. Sliter, Benjamin F. Smith, A. Hosford Smith, Courtney Smith. Henry C. Smith, J. Mortimer Smith, L. M. S. Smith, Mrs. Minus S. Smith, Newton J. Smith, Pliny Smith, Reuben H. Smith, Robert H. Smith, Samuel C. Smith, Thomas Smith, Mrs. T. S. Snyder, Mrs. F. S. Snyder, Leonard Solomon, William H. Sones, George WV. Soule, George H. Spring, Henry Spring, Jared S. Stanly, Justin M. Stebbins, Charles D. Stebbins, Andrew J. Steketee, George G. Steketee, John Steketee, Paul Stevens, Ambrose A. Stevens, E. 0. Stewart, John R. Stone, Chester G. Stone, Henry G. Stone, Normandus A. Sunderland, Mrs. Myron Swain, Robert Sweet, Martin L. Tabor, Andrew Tanner, John B. Tanner, Timothy I. Tanner, William H Taylor, Charles H. Taylor, Charles W. Teeple, George Thayer George W. Thornton, William Talford, William D. Tompkins, Ira G. Tower, D. F. Tower, Osmond Tracy, Philander Trowbridge, Jerome Truax, John Tryon, William A. Tubbs, Martin H. Turner, Aaron B. Turner, Alfred B. Turner, Demetrius Turner, Eunice Turner, Selden E. Turner, Samuel M. Tusch, F. NV. Utley, Dwight R. Van Amburgh, M. Van Driele, Francis Verberg, Mary A. Vlekke, Marinus F. Voorheis, William C. Walker, J. H. Warrell, Charles W. Waters, James Watkins, Erwin C. Watson, Amasa B. Watson, Daniel M. Watson, John Weatherly, Warren W. Weaver, Prentiss Wells, Jared Welles, William J. Werner, Gustave Westlake, Samuel Whalen, Keeran Wheeler, Josiah L. Wheeler, William K. White, George H., (ist). White, George H., (2d). White, Samuel White, T. M, White, Timothy W. White, Thomas W. Whitney, Abram J. Wilder, Horace Wileman, M. H. Williams, Ransalaer Williamson, J. W. Wilson, Edward R. Wilson, Hermanus A. Winsor, Eugene E. Winsor, Jacob W. Winsor, Mrs. J. W. Winsor, Zenas G. Winter, John B. Withey, John H. Withey, Orison A. Withey, Solomon L. Wood, Arthur Woodard, Charles Woodman, B. F. Wooster, Samuel R. Worden, F. W. Wright Solomon Wurzburg, Frank Yale, George W. Young, Elias G. Young, Samuel Zunder, Louis THE JUNIOR OLD SETTLERS. Somewhat after the plan which had been adopted by the old pioneers, a number of gentlemen of the younger generation organized, January 8, i88o, a society which they called the Junior Old Settlers Association, to be comprised of members living in Ionia, Kent and Ottawa counties, and who should have been residents within the valley twenty-five years. The object stated was the cultivation of pleasant social relations and the accumulation and perpetuation of matters of personal and local history. The membership fee was one dollar. The first officers were: Charles A. f ilton, President; E. B. Dikeman and N. B. Scribner, VicePresidents; Stephen H. Ballard, Secretary; Julian M. Wheeler, Treasurer. Arthur M. Warrell was chosen Secretary, and Charles H. Leonard, Treasurer, at their second meeting, February 8, i88i. February I4, I882, A. B. Sinclair was elected Secretary, 148 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. and Arthur K. Allen, Treasurer. At the same meeting they elected Washington Davis and Solon W. Baxter, Vice- Presidents. Charles A. Hilton served continuously as President. The Junior Old Settlers had several very enjoyable reunions, balls and parties. The association had a total membership roll of upward of one hundred and fifty names. Their first picnic was held June I8, i88o, at Eastmanville. June I4, I88I, they had an excursion and basket picnic, going by the steamer Barrett to Grand Haven and returning by rail. This association has, by neglectful inattention, been allowed to lapse into "innocuous desuetude." CHAPTER XIII. THE CITY THE original charter of the city of Grand Rapids was constituted by act of the Legislature, approved April 2, I850. It began by fixing the location of the city, to comprise four sections of land in the townships of Grand Rapids and Walker, namely: Sections 19 and 30 in Town 7 North, Range II West, and Sections 24 and 25 in Town 7 North, Range I2 West, including so much of Grand River and its islands as were comprised within those sections. It divided the city into five wards, as follows: First Wardsouth of Lyon street and west of the continuous line of Division street, and east of Grand River. Second-north of Lyon street, west of that part of Division street north to its intersection with Bridge street, and all north of Bridge street and east of Grand River. Third -— south of Bridge street and east of Division street, and the continuIous line thereof. Fourth-west of Grand River and north of the continuous line of Bridge street. Fifth-west of Grand River and south of the continuous line of Bridge street. The act constituted the following city officers: Mayor, Recorder, five Aldermen, Clerk, Treasurer, Marshal, five Assessors, City Surveyor, four Justices of the Peace, not less than three nor more than five Constables, Solicitor, two School Inspectors, and two Directors of the Poor. Then followed general directions as to elections, and the manner of conducting them. It prescribed that the Mayor, Recorder and Aldermen should constitute the "Common Council of the city of Grand Rapids." Next followed a setting forth of the powers and duties of the Common Council, giving to that body control of affairs relating to public order, public safety, and the general health, with power to establish a Board of Health. Also to establish and organize fire companies, and provide apparatus for their use. Also to regulate the sales of malt and spirituous liquors. Also general authority CHARTER. for the construction, repair, and preservation of sewers and drains, streets and alleys, highways, water courses and bridges, and to pass ordinances deemed necessary for the above mentioned purposes. It established a "Mayor's Court of the city of Grand Rapids," composed of the Mayor, Recorder and Aldermen, or any three of them, the Mayor or Recorder always being one. This Court was given jurisdiction and cognizance of all actions arising within the city under the charter or ordinances. The right of appeal from this court to the Circuit Court was provided for. The Common Council was empowered to levy a capitation or poll tax upon the inhabitants, also taxes on the real and personal property within the city, necessary to defray expenses, but not to exceed two mills on the dollar of the valuation of the property, unless authorized by a vote of two-thirds of the actual freeholders. Full powers were given as to regulation of the collection of these taxes, and also of street and sewer taxes. State and county taxes were to be collected in the same manner as in the townships. The Mayor was allowed a salary of $i a year, the Aldermen $i each, the Treasurer not to exceed $ i o, the Solicitor not to exceed $Ioo, and the Recorder such fees as might be taxed in his favor by the Mayor's Coulrt, against parties other than the city. The Ward Assessors, School Inspector, and Justices of the Peace, were to perform similar duties to those of such offices in the townships, with corresponding compensation. The Mayor was to exercise the powers and duties of Supervisor. The Mayor's Court was given the use of the Kent county jail. The above were some of the principal and more prominent features of the original City Charter; to descend to minor details is scarcely necessary, March 24, I85i, an amendment was enacted, repealing the provision which made the Mayor a Supervisor, 150 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. and providing for the election of two Supervisors annually, one for each side of the river. February 6, i855, another amendment was enacted, increasing the number of Supervisors to three. Otherwise the charter remained unchanged until I857; municipal affairs meanwhile moving smoothly and in the main satisfactorily; but with the growth of population and of improvement, there grew up a demand for a general overhauling and remodeling of this fundamental law of the city, with a grant of more extended powers. A new or revised charter was procured, by act approved February I4, i857. This made an important change in the boundaries of the city, describing them as follows: "Commencing at the southeast corner of the northwest quarter of Section 17, in Town 7 North, of Range i i West; running thence south to the southeast corner of the southwest quarter of Section 32 of said Township; thence west, on the south line of said Township, to the southwest corner of the same; thence extended on the south line of Town 7 North, of Range I2 West, to the middle of Grand River, on Section 34 in said Township; thence northeast, along the middle of Grand River, to the point which intersects the north and south quarter line of Section 35 in said Township 7 North, of Range 12 West; thence north to the northwest corner of the southeast quarter of Section I4, in said last named Township; thence east to the place of beginning." This boundary enlarged the city from its original two miles square, to three and a half miles north and south, by three miles east and west, and the addition of the triangular piece between the south line of the township and Grand River at the southwest corner of the city. This included a strip a half-mile wide on the east side which is not now in the city. The number of wards was not changed, but the new descriptions were as follows: First-that part of the city south of Lyon street, west of Division street, and east of the middle of Grand River. Second-north of Lyon street and east of the middle of Grand River. Third-south of Lyon street and east of Division street. Fourth-west of the middle of Grand River and.north of Bridge street. Fifth-west of the middle of Grand River and south of Bridge street. The elective officers provided for were: Mayor, Recorder, Treasurer, Controller, Clerk, Marshal; one Justice, one Constable and two Aldermen in each ward (one of the Aldermen to be Supervisor of the ward); two School Inspectors, and two Directors of the Poor. It also provided for a Chief of Police, Police Constables (not to exceed one for each ward), City Surveyor, Watchmen, Fire Wardens, Common Criers, Keepers of Alms Houses, Work House and Penitentiary; Pound Masters, Inspectors of Fire Wood, Weigh Masters and Auctioneers, to be appointed by the Couficil, also two Cemetery Commissioners. The Mayor was given a veto power over any ordinance for public improvement, or for payment of money from the treasury, which might be overruled by a two-thirds vote of the Council. The usual power to enact ordinances for the general welfare and good order of the city, including street lighting and the regulation of markets, sale and storage of powder and dangerous substances, routes and grades of railroads, and various other matters pertaining to a well ordered community, was conferred upon the Council. The city was empowered to own land for cemetery purposes within or without the limits, and to establish a Cemetery Board. The Council was given the power of townshipi boards over saloons, taverns, and similar places of entertainment. The City Marshal was to be Superintendent of the City and his duties were prescribed. A Recorder's Court was established as a continuance of the Mayor's Court, and Justices of the Peace were given the same jurisdiction as township Justices. The Council was empowered to determine the salaries of officers, namely: to the Clerk, in addition to fees and perquisites, not exceeding $200 per annum; to the Treasurer not exceeding $Ioo a year; each Alderman not exceeding $i; Controller not exceeding $Ioo; City Marshal not exceeding $I.50 per day; City Attorney not exceeding $500 per annum, and the fees of other officers to be such as the Council might determine. Taxes could be imposed annually, not exceeding one-half of one per cent. of the valuation of real and personal property, and the Council was to determine the amount to be raised by tax for city purposes in each year. No liability exceeding the amount of such tax could be incurred, except for special loans such as were authorized by the charter. Full provisions were CHARTER CHANGES AND AMENDMENTS. 151 made for the power over streets, and the making and management of public improvements. By this revision the term of Recorder was extended to two years. By act of February io, i859, the term of Alderman was extended to two years, and in that year in each ward, one Alderman was elected for one year, and one for two years. The office of Assessor was abolished, and its duties were relegated to the Alderman whose term soonest expired, and who was to act as Supervisor, with duties similar to those of Supervisors in the townships. At first assessments for public improvements decided necessary (such as for streets, sewers, etc.), were made by committees appointed to determine the districts and apportion the assessments, and their rolls were returnable to the Recorder's Court for confirmation. This was subsequently changed, and the confirmation of the rolls was placed within the province of the Council, and still later of the Board of Review. By an amendment approved March 4, i86i, the boundary of the city was again changed, throwing out into the township of Grand Rapids, a strip half a mile wide, and the entire length of the city, leaving the east boundary as it is at present, on the section line at East street. This belt of land has of late been rapidly settled, many of its people are growing wealthy, and that it will soon be again attached to the city is not improbable. In i863, by amendment, provision was made for requiring owners or occupants of lots in the city to lay or repair the walks in front of their premises, or in default it should be done at the expense of the city, and the cost added to the general tax against the lots or houses adjacent, and collected therewith; and in i865, further provision was made in relation to the return of uncollected taxes, and the sale of property to satisfy them. (The fire which destroyed the county records in i86o, was the occasion of some confusion and no little trouble in relation to real estate titles. In the following year an act was passed to "quiet titles in the county of Kent"-prescribing a method of procedure in chancery for that purpose. Again in I865, the abstracts of deeds prepared by Leonidas S. Scranton while he was Register, were made primca facie evidence of title. Through the operation of these laws it is presumed that few if any of the titles to city real estate are now materially defective in consequence of that fire). An amendment to the charter, approved March I3, 1867, made provision for the removal by the Council of appointed officers, for malfeasance or misfeasance in office, but allowing the accused an opportunity to be heard in defense. It provided that a quorum of the Council was sufficient for ordinary business, but a concurring vote of a majority of all the members elect should be necessary for an appointment, or for levying any tax or assessment. Some changes were made as to salaries, giving the Clerk in addition to fees and perquisites not exceeding $400 per annum; to the Treasurer not exceeding $Ioo per annum; to the Marshal not exceeding $I.50 per day; to the Aldermen not more than $Ioo, City Attorney not more than $500, and Controller not more than $IOO per annum. It further provided that the Council might raise not exceeding two per cent. on the property valuation for taxes in any one year; also might issue bonds not to exceed $5,000, for the purchase or improvement of cemeteries; also that assessments made upon property for purposes authorized by the charter should be a final and conclusive lien thereon. Another amendment in i869 contained further provisions in relation to the proceedings on sale of property for assessments and taxes. By a revision of the charter in March, 1871, the number of wards in the city was increased from five to eight. It enlarged the jurisdiction of the Recorder's Court, and made some other changes in reference thereto. The law relative to free schools in the city of Grand Rapids was revised in the same year. This provided that the city should constitute one school district, and the public schools should be under the direction and control of the Board of Education. This act was further amended by acts approved 1875, 1877, 1879 and i881. By an amendment approved March 17, I 872, a change was made in the boundary between the fourth and fifth wards, making Fairbanks street the line. The same act gave the Common Council enlarged and definite powers with relation to the establishment and maintenance of water-works; also in regard to the making and repairing of streets, and the levying and collecting of taxes for those purposes. The act to authorize a Board of Public Works was passed 152 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. March 22, I873, and has been several times amended. The act constituting the Superior Court was passed March 24, I875. An act to organize and establish a Police Court was passed in April, I873, and this was superseded by another passed in May, I879. The Board of Police and Fire Commissioners was established by act of May 24, I88I. An act approved May i8, I883, provided for the management of cemeteries owned or to be owned by the city. Some important amendments to the charter were made in the spring of I887. The duties of the Treasurer were changed, requiring him to keep an office, and to devote his entire time to the service. His duties were increased by making him collector of all assessments for local purposes, except sidewalk tax-rolls. The Common Council was authorized to advertise for bids for the highest rates of interest which safe banking houses of the city would pay on the Treasurer's deposits, and the lowest rates they would charge for temporary loans. The Marshal was relieved of ordinary tax collections, and made superintendent of sewers, sidewalks, streets and public grounds generally. The provisions with relation to the Board of Health were changed. This Board consists of the Mayor and President of the Council, and three other members nominated by the Mayor and confirmed by the Council, one of whom must be a regularly graduated physician, with proficient knowledge of hygiene and analytic chemistry. The Board has authority to appoint a Health Officer and a Secretary. Other recent changes make the Mayor a member of both the Board of Public Works and Board of Police and Fire Commissioners. The City Government (1888) under charter provisions, consists of a Mayor, a Board of sixteen Aldermen from eight wards, a Board of Public Works of five members, a Board of Police and Fire Commissioners of five members, a Board of Review and Equalization of three members, a Board of Health of five members, a Controller, City Clerk, City Treasurer, City Surveyor, Marshal, Director of the Poor, Physician and Health Officer, Highway Commissioner, and some minor officers, besides those of the Police and Fire Departments. SALARIES OF CITY OFFICERS. Mayor is fixed by the Common Council, not to exceed $1,200 per year. At present it is fixed at $750. The City Clerk gets $i,ooo per year and fees, and is allowed such assistant clerk hire as the Council may deem necessary. The salary of the deputy clerk is $750. The Controller is allowed $1,200 per year, with a small amount of assistance when absolutely necessary. The Treasurer's salary is $2,500, and his deputy receives $I,200. No fees or other emoluments. The Marshal draws $I,200 per year and his deputy is paid by the day, his wages averaging about $740 per year. The Marshal is also allowed $12 per week for clerk hire. The salary of the City Attorney is $2,500, with an assistant at $750. The salary of the Judge of the Superior Court ($2,500) is paid by the State, the city paying the Clerk $i,ooo per year and the messenger $312 per year. The Director of the Poor receives $I,500 per annum, and the keeper of the city supply store $750. The Health Officer receives $i,500; the City Physician the same amount, and the Secretary of the Board of Health $750. Members of the Board of Review and Equalization, three of them, are paid $3 per day for time actually spent in the discharge of their duties. The Judge of Police Court draws a salary of $I,5oo, and the Clerk of the same court $i,ooo. All other officials connected with the Police Department are paid from the department fund. The members of the Board of Public Works receive $3 per day while in the active discharge of their duties. Their clerk is paid $I,200 per year. The City Surveyor and his assistants cost the city about $4,000 per year. Members of the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners and of the Board of Education receive no compensation. The Aldermen, two from each ward, draw a salary of $200 per year, paid from the general fund, and receive extra compensation for acting as Inspectors of Election and as members of the Boards of Registration. The Supervisors, one for each ward, are paid $2 per day for the time actually spent in the discharge of their duties. Under charter provision the salary of the OFFICIAL SALARIES-LEGISLATIVE REFERENCES. 153 The Ward Collectors draw $2 per day amended, S. L. 1851, p. 56; I855, p. 3I; revised, S. L. from the first Monday in December until i857, p. 272; amended, S. L. I859, p. 207; i86i, pp. o 40 and I25; i863, p. I31; i865, pp. I70 and 281; January i, and get a percentage on collec- i1867, vol. 2, pp. 304 and 855; 1869, vol. 2, p. 615; tions made after the latter date. revised, S. L. I87I, vol. 2, pp. 330oand67o; amended, S. L. I872, p. 14; i873, vol. 2, p. ii85; Local Acts REFERENCES TO ACT OF INCORPORATION AND 1875, pp. 756 and 777; revised, L. A. i877, p 12I; AMENDMENTS. amended, L. A. I879; pp. 173 and 189; i88i, p. 236; 1883, pp. 4i6 and 5i6; I885, pp. 80 and 237; L. A. Original Charter, Session Laws i850o, p. 26I: i887, p. 483. CHAPTER XIV. MUNICIPAL ANNALS. THE Charter of the City of Grand Rapids was adopted by popular vote May i, and the first election of officers under it was held May ii, I85O. The first informal meeting of the members of the Common Council was held May i8, at which were determined the amounts of bonds to be required of certain city officers. Those of the Treasurer and Clerk were fixed at $i,ooo each; that of the City Marshal at $2,000. On May 20 the Council met and organized. The Rules of Order of the Detroit Common Council were adopted as those of this body for the time being. May 22, ordinances were passed relative to taverns and inns; ordinaries and groceries; ball alleys, billiards and other games, and shows and theatrical exhibitions. In June several licenses were fixed; and highway districts were formed, each ward constituting one. The first city license for tavern keeper was granted to Gottlieb Christ, of the Bridge Street House. The pay of City Surveyor was fixed at $2 per day. June 25 a city seal was adopted, of which a fac simile is here given: business moved as smoothly and with as much regularity as if the legislative body had been a long established institution. In the fall of I85Q the Public Square was ordered surveyed and staked, and Abram Pike and others were allowed to fence and ornament the ground. Sidewalks were ordered on many streets, and several grades established. Fire Wardens were appointed, and persons selling liquors to Indians were threatened with prosecution. This threat of prosecutions for violation of liquor laws and ordinances, was a sort of by-play periodically indulged in, that has been kept up with great pertinacity to this day. In this year (i85o) settlement of accounts with the township of Grand Rapids was made, and the treasury funds divided by amicable agreement. In January, i85I, the library was similarly divided, in the proportion of one for the town to two for the city. At the second charter election, in April, I85I, 558 votes were cast. The qualifying oaths of the officers elect are all spread upon the record. Fifteen groceries, a tavern and a ball alley were licensed in May. In July George A. Lacy was licensed to sell small beer in a tent at the east end of the bridge, and appointed reporter of violations of the bridge ordinance as to fast driving. In December a two-mill city tax was ordered. A full settlement was made by the Grand Rapids town and city boards in joint session, December 23, as to all indebtedness and obligations incurred prior to the incorporation of the city. The charter election of I852 was held April 5. In June the Council passed a resolution giving to the Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids Plank Road Company permission to grade Division street from the south line of the city to Monroe street and enter and construct its road thereupon, without expense to the city, and with no toll gate within the city limits. On July 8 ORIGINAL CITY SEAI.-FULL SIZE. This seal was designed and engraved by Aaron B. Turner, then City Clerk. The the motto, Motu Viget, was suggested by Joseph Penney, then a member of the Council. From this time forward municipal PUBLIC SQUARE CLAIM-LIQUOR AGENTS-FIRE ENGINES. 155 an election was held on the question of raising a "five mill tax" to cancel old indebtedness and defray current expenses. It was carried-For, I27; against, 9. The tax was ordered by the Council July 23. At the same time a vote was taken on the question of contesting or purchasing the claim of Louis Campau to the Public Square. Result: For contesting, 63; for purchase at $730, 52; for purchase at $300, or contest if that were not accepted, 24. The question was determined by arbitration, in August, and in December his quit-claim to the city, for $500, was taken. In August a survey was ordered of the "old cemetery land " in the Kent plat. In December twenty-four traders gave bonds to the city as liquor dealers. In March, i853, Lyon street was extended to the east line of the city, and Fourth street to the Stocking road. I853. In the spring, Lawyer Cole's office was rented for a Common Council room, at $20 a year. June 20, at the election on the adoption or rejection of the "Maine" Prohibitory law, the vote in the city was: Yes, 482; No, I45. The Council ordered the purchase of ten city maps, then just issued-the first made after the incorporation of the city. In August a pond hole in the rear of the Public Hall (in Kent alley) was presented as a nuisance, and a ditch was ordered to bring the brook which caused it from the swamp in Ionia street out to Bronson street (now Crescent avenue) and thence down through a culvert under the canal to the river. Considerable filling of streets that were inundated by the flood of 1852 was done this season. In November a contract was made with David Caswell to fence the Coldbrook (Kent Plat) cemetery, with picket fence and cedar posts, for $I.50 per rod. William Preusser was paid $io per year for two years' rent of cellar for two fire engines. That was where now is the Luce Block. November 30, a committee was authorized -under the so-called Maine law-to purchase for the city 00 gallons brandy, 75 gallons port wine, 75 gallons gin, 75 gallons Maderia wine, 135 gallons whisky, 120 gallons alcohol, and 74 gallons rum. At the next meeting the following purchases, and bills for liquors, were reported: Of F. N. Godfroy, $175.04; of William G. Henry, $262.23; of James Eager, $61.75. Charles Shepard was appointed liquor agent. In March, I854, he reported that he had sold $289.86 worth, and resigned the office. William G. Henry was then appointed agent and voted a salary of $ioo per annum. 1854. After the charter election, a Council room was engaged of Withey & Eggleston for $20 a year, including light and fuel. Aaron B. Turner was appointed City Printer. May 4 the Marshal reported that he had sold the city scraper. May I5 an order was passed for planking Canal street, from Pearl to Bridge, with two tracks, each eight feet wide. A fire district was created of Monroe and Canal streets, from Division to Bridge street. In October a lot on Monroe street, west of Official (Spring) street was purchased for an engine house, price $450, and contract was made for a brick building thereon. i855. In the spring, taking of druggist bonds under the liquor law, attending to street grades, plank walks, awnings and the matters of tax-rolls, constituted the major part of the Council business. An ordinance was passed July 3 "to permit certain' persons to light the city of Grand Rapids with gas." Tlis had reference to parties in Cleveland. July 30 the death of City Solicitor Ralph \V. Cole was announced, and suitable resolutions thereupon passed. August I, the City Surveyor reported that he had put iron stakes at section corners and quarter posts throughout the city. August 21, the proprietors of the Bridge Street House and the Western Hotel were granted the privilege of laying water pipes in certain streets and alleys. In September Canal street was ordered cleared of sawlogs, and $25 were paid for trees set in the Public Square. Much plank sidewalking was done this year, and reservoirs for water supply for fire protection were put at convenient points. I856. In January the Grand Rapids Railroad Company was granted leave to pass down the east bank of the river from Coldbrook to below the city with a railroad. In March the Council voted unanimously to raise $2,000 by special tax for the purchase of two fire engines. The proposition was submitted to a vote of the electors, and by them also carried. May 26, two fire engines were ordered purchased in New York, at a price of not more than $850 each. In June parties from the east came with a proposition to erect gas works under the concession 156 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. before granted to a Cleveland company, having secured a transfer of the rights of the latter; but later a home company for the same purpose was organized. The first paving, in Monroe street, cobble stone, was done this year, and astonished some of the tax payers by its seeming extravagance, the cost being $io, I50. The river bank at the foot of Pearl and west line of Canal street, was wharfed in October. In December a new or revised city charter was drafted to be presented to the Legislature, with a petition for its enactment into law. I857. The new charter was passed and became a law February 14. At the April election 1,258 votes were polled in the city. A room for the Council meetings was hired for $75 a year, and under-rented for joint occupation by a Justice of the Peace, who was to pay half the rent, and heat and light the room. This was an upper story of the block at the southeast corner of Lyon and Canal 'streets. In April, the Gas Light Company were granted the privilege to manufacture and sell resin gas instead of coal gas, at a cost not to exceed $7 per,00ooo feet, providing that such price should not be dearer to the consumer than coal gas at $4 per i,ooo feet. June i8, Harry Dean was appointed City Sexton. Voted, June I8, that the City Marshal be allowed four per cent. for collecting city taxes. A license fee of $3 per evening for concerts was exacted. July I7 a slight change was made in the face of the city seal, retaining the chief features of the design already in use, and a description of it was placed upon neath the eagle with a shield and the figures I850, the motto being 'Mfolu Viget,' and inscribed 'City of Grand Rapids, Mich.'" August 13 a profile of the sewerage of the city was adopted. August I5 a resolution was adopted pledging efforts to aid the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company to extend its line to this city, also one granting the right of way. August 29 an order was made for the abatement of a nuisance known as "the old canal basin." By a resolution, October 29, two per cent. was fixed as the amount to be paid collectors of the city tax. This was a year of decided advance in improvements. Great changes were made, especially in Pearl, Ottawa, Division, and several of the streets up the east-side hill, where deep excavations and heavy fillings were necessary to get the desired grades. i858. The year opened upon a newly gas-lighted city, which gave a new look of life and enterprise. In January $500 was appropriated to the poor fund, there being that winter an increased demand for aid to the poor. At the first meeting in April, after the burning of the Bridge street bridge, the Council granted permits to several parties for foot bridges and ferries. In May a committee, appointed to consider the matter of building a City Prison, reported that it was not advisable that year. An appropriation of $ i, ooo was made for the building of Engine House No. 3. The Council leased the Public Square for a circus, on the first week in June, and resolved to expend the money received therefor in repairing and beautifying the park. The sum of $50 was appropriated to the military of the'city for use in firing salutes on festal days. June 24 an ordinance was passed requiring the occupants of lots to clean the streets in front of their premises to the center thereof, every Friday before ten o'clock A. Ni., and pile the rubbish in a manner convenient for removal. Canal street, north of Bridge, was graded and planked this season, at a cost of $5,450. The sum of $I2,500 was voted, September 24, to be raised by tax, for city purposes for the current year. A new fence was put about the Fulton Street Cemetery. Crescent avenue park was planned, and the ground obtained for it in October. I859. In January the city purchased twenty acres of ground for a cemetery on the west side, and in the following month PRESENT CTVY SEAL-EXACT SIZE. record as follows: "Having as a device a hand holding a pair of scales, and under CEMETERY GROUNDS-REMOVAL-SWINE AND DOGS. 157 forty acres for a similar use near the southeast corner of the city. In May an order was made for the grading and paving of Canal street, from Pearl to Hastings; also an order for the grading of Division street, from Monroe street south to the city limits. These improvements were completed in that season. A room in Luce's Block was leased for the use of the Recorder's Court. A comprehensive ordinance organizing "The Fire Department of the City of Grand Rapids" was passed on the 3oth of July. August 13, the Aldermen-six yeas to four nays-" Resolved, that no supplies be furnished by the city to any person that keeps a dog." The Marshal was authorized to employ as many men as he should deem necessary to assist him in enforcing the ordinance relative to clogs. The City Clerk was directed to procure a suitable book to be denominated "Book of Street Records." Registry books for registering the names of voters, under the law of 1859, were ordered — one for each ward. October 15 an appropriation of $300 was made "for the purpose of improving the cemetery grounds on the west side of the river." December 3 a deed was taken from Eliphalet H. Turner, of the south half of lot 6, block I8, of Turner & Scribner's addition, for an engine house lot. i86o. The year opened tamely in municipal matters. No mention is made in the city records of the burning out of the quarters that had been occupied for a council room, by the fire which destroyed the county offices and records. But the Council removed to thle Withey block, west side of Canal street, south of Lyon, and went along as quietly with )business as if nothing had happened to disturb its serenity. Cemetery bonds and interest to the amount of $I,511.33 were ordered paid February II. Settlement for many street improvements made the previous year was among the important labors of the Mayor and the Council during the winter. At the April election a proposition to pay each fireman five dollars, was carried by a majority of i,o8i votes. The Board of Supervisors met in special session, February i6, to consider the location of county offices, and matters pertaining to the records. They decided to purchase at the corner of Kent and Lyon streets the spot where the county offices now stand. In April the Grand Rapids Hydraulic Company was granted permission to use the streets, lanes and alleys of the city for water pipes. By resolution, April 24, i86o, that portion of the "State Road" or "Bostwick Lake Road" running diagonally across the east half of the northeast quarter of Section 3I Town 7 North, Range i West, was vacated. That was a road beyond, and running southeasterly from what is now State street. According to a report made to the Council at the end of April, the municipal taxation (other than for street and sewer improvements, and not including State nor county taxes) for the previous year, was nearly evenly divided in its application to school and city purposes, and to the support of the poor. In June the Council voted down a motion to prosecute persons allowing their cattle or swine to run on the Public Square. But early in July it turned a new leaf against dogs running at large, and authorized the payment of twenty-five cents each for killing such as were found roaming. In August the Council voted $600o for improving cemeteries, and ordered that a separate account be kept for each cemetery fund. September 29, voted that $i,0ooo be raised by tax for city purposes for the current fiscal year. i86i. The year opened with much pertutrbation in men's minds as to public affairs -caused by the secession of several Southern States-but the Common Council continued its efforts for progress and improvement at home. The three previous years had witnessed great and expensive changes and improvement of streets, grades, sewers, and otherwise, and, though times were hard financially, heavy taxes had been cheerfully paid. In no period of the same length were municipal affairs carried forward more to the advantage and material progress of the city, all embarrassments considered, than in the five years from i857 to I86I, inclusive. But in this latter year more was done in finishing and settling for previous undertakings than in starting new ones involving much expense. In March there were some cases of small pox in the city, and measures which proved successful were taken to check the spread of the disease. At the April election a proposition to raise a sufficient fund to pay to each fireman five dollars, was carried by a majority of 732. June 17 the operation of the ordinance against swine running at large was suspended as to all the city, except the central business part on the 158 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. east side, and on July 15 the hog ordinance was wholly repealed. The removal of a dam in the east channel of Grand River at the head of Island No. i, so as to allow a free current down that channel, was ordered by vote of Council. The sum of $o,0ooo was put in the tax budget for expenses of the current year. Several attempts were made in this and other years, but ineffectual, to assess taxes by districts for street lights, instead of paying by general tax. I862. Among the early municipal acts was a resolution to stop horse racing and immoderate driving in the streets. Another matter was the incoming of many poor people, while enlistments were going on, and the Council, in January, directed the Poormasters to report the number of city poor, their names, residences, how long they had been here, and where they came from. The sum of $968 was appropriated to pay bonds that had been issued for the purchase of cemetery grounds, east side. At the spring election fhe citizens again voted to pay the firemen $5 each. In May, Robert I. Shoemaker was appointed "City Undertaker," the first appointment recorded of an officer so named. At the next meeting he was appointed "City Sexton." In June the Mayor presented a communication relative to aid for wounded soldiers from this county. It was decided that the Council had no power to appropriate moneys for such purposes. June 23 an ordinance was passed exacting $I.50 as a fee and $I.50 annually for each cellar drainage into a public sewer. An ordinance was passed requiring that the old canal basin be filled up In July a swine ordinance was passed, covering the thickly settled and business parts of the town, wherein no swine were to be allowed to run at large, on pain of impoundment and fine. I863. February 2 the saloon keepers were notified to close their saloons on Sundays, as required by ordinance. April 27 a communication from the clergymen of the city asked the Common Council to officially recommend a cessation of work and closing of business places on the 3oth, the day appointed by President Lincoln as a "day of humiliation and prayer." No action, further than to accept the advice, was taken. May I8, $I, I50 was ordered raised for high-way purposes. June 29 the opening of Ottawa street from Lyon to Pearl was ordered; also the extension and opening of Washington street east to College avenue. A fruitless effort was made to procure the opening of Kent street from Lyon to Monroe street. Grading and sewering improvements were projected and carried on this year in Lyon, Ionia, Ottawa, Sheldon, Water, Fourth and Stocking streets, and others. September 29 a special meeting of the Council was held at which appropriate resolutions were passed on the death of City Surveyor John Almy. i864. The first important public act this year was a vote of the electors, at a special election, authorizing the issue of bonds for the payment by the city of a bounty of $00oo to volunteers for filling the quotas assigned to the several wards. The resolution calling for such vote was passed December 22, I863, but there is no mention in the city records of the calling nor of the time of holding the election. At a regular meeting of the Council, January 4, i864, appears a record of the return of the vote, showing: "Yes," 40o; "No," 25; majority in favor of bounty loan, 376. February 8 an ordinance was passed requiring the clearing of snow from the sidewalks by the owners of adjoining property, within twenty-four hours after each snow storm. On February 15 the Mayor reported that the quota of the city (ninety men) on the previous call by the President for 300,000 men, had been filled, city bounties paid, and bonds of the city issued for $9,000 at ten per cent. interest. Another call for troops having been made, the Council, March I4, ordered another vote to authorize the raising of $6,ooo to pay a bounty of $ioo to men enlisting under the last call. The vote, taken April 4, resulted: "Yes, 578; "No," i6; majority for the bounty, 562. The retiring Mayor, in his message May 2, reported the city really free from debt, except the $9,000 military loan. On the i9th of May, the first ordinance was passed by the Common Council granting a franchise for the construction of street railways. This was repealed in October and a new one passed. [See chapter on Street Railways.] The Clerk and Treasurer, July I I, were instructed to create a fund upon the books which was to be called the Soldiers' Bounty Fund, and authorized to transfer to that fund $250, to pay such interest on bounty bonds as might become due in the following December. On the I3th of July, at a special election called by the Council, STREET CARS RUNNING-RAILROAD AID-EIGHT-HOUR DAY. 159 the electors voted in favor of paying $ioo bounty to each non-commissioned officer, musician and private volunteering to the military or naval service, and accredited to the city, upon any call thereafter made by the President; also in favor of raising by loan the moneys for the payment of such bounties. July 25 an ordinance was passed relative to the war loan bonds and bounty fund, and prescribing the duties of the city officers in their management. I865. A session of the Council January 30, the City Surveyor was instructed to procure a granite boulder and properly mark and sink it in one corner of the triangular park at the head of Monroe streetthe stone being designed for a "city bench," or starting point, from which to establish the grades of streets. In March a steam fire engine was procured and placed in service, the first of its kind in the city-cost $5,600, and $150 for freight charges. Beyond the issuing of patriotic proclamations by the Mayor, there was no prominent action by the city government, as such, on the occasion of the assassination of the President of the United States, on the I4th of April. The street cars began running May io, marking a new era in passenger locomotion, and the event was celebrated by free rides, speeches and a feast. In this season, the efforts of two or three years for the grading of Lyon street, and the opening and grading of Ionia and Ottawa from Lyon through to Pearl, were crowned with success. The grading of Lyon required a deep cut through Prospect Hill, and another through the brow of the eastern hill from Bostwick to Barclay street, and much filling in the valley at Ionia street. The opening of Ottawa involved a heavy cut through the tough clay of Prospect Hill for nearly the entire distance between Monroe street and Crescent avenue. September 5, a vote of the electors was taken on the question of aiding in the construction of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad to the amount of $i00,000, by the issue of city bonds for that purpose, bearing seven per cent. interest. The canvass showed 510 votes in favor and 66 votes against the loan. In December the Council designated all of the second ward north of Coldbrook street as "a stand for the sale of wood"-a very roomy woodyard. I866. In January the Board of Super visors resolved that the court house should be located on the Public Square, and submitted to the voters at the ensuing April election the propositions to raise by tax $15,000 to build a jail, and procure by loan $40,000 to build a court house. The vote defeated both projects. The chief work of the city government for the first four months was in continuance of grading and draining; and this extended, in many betterments of moderate cost, over nearly all the city. Streets in the central part, those climbing the hills, and especially the portion bounded by Monroe, Division and Cherry streets, were greatly improved; and a good start was made in permanent grades on the west side of the river. In May the Council ordered a cement walk laid in front of Fulton Street Park. May 29, the paving of Monroe street from Division to Fulton, and of Fulton street from the head of Monroe east to the city limits, was declared a "necessary public improvement." A special election was held June i8, to vote upon a proposition to aid in the construction of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, by the issue of city bonds to the amount of $ioo,ooo. It resulted in a vote of 289 in favor, and I9I against the proposition. This was simply a renewal of the vote of the previous year, but with a change in the conditions of the bonds, and these to be taken by the company in lieu of those before voted. I867. In April a strong effort was made in the Council to open Kent street through to Monroe, and a resolution was passed declaring it a necessary improvement. It was finally abandoned. The Mayor in his message at the beginning of the municipal year, recommended the building of a City Alms-house, as the city was empowered by the charter to do, but no such institution has been established to the present day. He further recommended the passing of a resolution declaring eight hours to be a day's work for laborers in the employ of the city, and on May 22 such a resolution was adopted by the Aldermen. (This was repealed June 2, I868.) The Common Council, by ordinance October 15, granted to the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad the right of way through Almy and Ferry streets on the east side, and Blossom, West Division and Water streets on the west side of the river. In October the Council instructed the Mayor and Clerk to execute, for 160 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. issue, city bonds to the amount of $00oo, 00ooo, which had been voted in aid of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad company. But the bonds were executed in June, i868. The Mayor, October 22, in a message to the Council, declined to issue the bonds as instructed, on account of certain defects which he named, in the proceedings directing their issue, and in the form of the bonds. The Council, December 5, passed a rigid general ordinance, to regulate the use of streets where right of way was given for railway purposes. I868. January I7, that portion of the old State Road (or so-called Bostwick road) within the city, running from the northwest to the southeast corner of the east half of the northeast quarter of Section 3I, Town 7 North, of Range i I West, was discontinued by action of the Board of Supervisors. March 26, the extension of Canal street north to the city limits was ordered, also the grading of Fifth street to Stocking. April 31, the Council voted to buy a new steam fire engine. May 28, a vote of the citizens was taken on a proposition to aid the Grand River Valley Railroad company, by loaning the bonds of the city to the amount of $ioo00,ooo. Result- "Yes," 759; "No," ). The regrading and paving of Canal:reet, north from Bridge to Coldbrook, was imong the important public improvements of this year. Another, by private enterprise, was the clearing of a large tract of land north of the city line, by the east bank of the river, a good portion of which was afterward platted into Comstock's addition, its streets connecting with those inside the city. The street railway was relaid up Canal street. The straightening of Monroe street, to its junction with Pearl and Canal, was declared necessary, October 3i. This was a somewhat busy year in the matter of public improvements, well distributed about the city. Only a few very expensive works were undertaken, and prominent among these was the grading of Grandville Avenue through to the south line of the city. But the aggregate of such expenditures was large. I869. The purchase of the grounds where stands the present county jail, was determined upon by the Board of Supervisors in January. In the local parliament, legislative acts for most of this year were confined to street grades and sewer improve ments. July 20 the right of way into the city was granted to the Grand River Valley Railroad. November 15, an election on the question of giving $ioo,ooo to aid the Grand Rapids, Newaygo and Lake Shore Railroad, resulted in a vote of 228 for, to 530 against the proposition. The railroad-aid fever had turned. A large amount of work on streets and sewers was done during the year-contracts for street improvements alone aggregating upward of $Ioo,ooo. Clinton, Calder, Seventh, Fourth, Front, Finney, Clancy, Washington, Jefferson, Williams, Lafayette, Plainfield and State streets each received a liberal outlay, others less amounts; long stretches of sidewalk were laid, and altogether the face of the city highways was greatly bettered in looks and for use. And the drainage by new sewerage made dry ground of many points in town that had been inconveniently miry. I870. January i5 the Common Council voted to issue bonds of the city to the amount of $25,000 in aid of the Grand River Valley Railroad; these to be in full settlement of questions that had arisen between the city officers and the railroad company concerning the terms and conditions on which $ Ioo00,oo000 had been voted in i868. The company accepted them as such settlement. The "big sewer," as it was called, down Monroe and Pearl streets, was completed in the latter part of March. The State Supreme Court, May 27, decided that the railroad-aid law was unconstitutional. This decision occasioned considerable apprehension among the holders of aid bonds for a time, and also a temporary feeling of relief to such municipalities as had issued such bonds in onerous amounts. But later decisions by the United States Courts held the bonds valid in the hands of holders in other States, eventually necessitating their payment. October io the Common Council located lamps at twenty-two street corners in the First, Second and Third Wards. I87I. The first very important work of the Council in I87I was the appointing of a committee to confer with a similar committee appointed by the citizens, as to the construction of water works. The joint committee reported in April, strongly recommending immediate action, and presented an elaborate plan of supply and distribution, with estimate of probable cost. An amendment to the city charter this spring increased CHANGE OF WARDS-WATER WORKS. 161 the number of wards from five to eight, making no change in the city boundaries. The new ward areas were: First-south of Fulton street and between Division street and the river. Second-east of the river between Fulton and Lyon streets. Thirdsouth of Fulton and east of Division street. Fourth-east of the river and between Lyon and Walbridge streets. Fifth-east of the river and north of Walbridge street. Sixth -west of the river and north of Seventh street. Seventh-west of the river and between Bridge and Seventh streets. Eighth -west of the river and south of Bridge street. The annual statement of'the Mayor, April 25, showed a city indebtedness of $I33,I25, while during the year there had been assessed and expended for local improvements $89, I 79, and general assessments had been $58,025. In June the Council authorized the employment of one or more engineers to make surveys and profiles of the most feasible routes for sources of water supply. August 9 a committee reported in favor of Fisk and Reeds Lakes, and recommended bonding the city for $300,000 to build water works. I872. February 24 the Council resolved to purchase a new steam fire engine. Another fruitless effort was made this year to open Kent street through to Pearl. A jury estimated the value of property required to be taken between Lyon and Pearl streets at $25,4 10, which, added to the other cost of the improvement, made the load so heavy that the project was dropped. May 25 the city purchased the lot on the southeast corner of Pearl and Ottawa streets, i66 by 66 feet in size, for $i,ooo000. In June seven new water reservoirs were ordered built-and here it is in place to say that, away from the river and canal, up to the time of constructing permanent water works, the chief reliance for protection from fires was upon the reservoirs, scores of which were constructed at points in the city where they were most needed and water could be obtained to keep them full. They were of capacities varying from 500 to I,ooo barrels. In June the Grand Rapids Hydraulic Company made an offer to the city of its franchises and properties for $65,ooo, and in addition to put down a well to yield 2,000,000 gallons of water daily. This proposition, in Council, was referred to the Committee on Water Works, but the city did not buy. In this 11 season improvements were made in Water, Summit, Cherry, Paris, Prospect, Livingston, Ionia, Island, Walbridge, Newberry, Trowbridge, Kent, West Leonard, Mount Vernon, Court and Allen streets, and the Butterworth road, at a cost of aboit $90, 000. i873. January 23 the Board of Supervisors and the Grand Rapids Bridge Company came to an agreement in the matter of toll on the Bridge street bridge, in which the bridge charter was extended nine years, with the right to take toll of all except foot passengers, the company to keep the bridge in repair and surrender it at the end of that time free of charge. The Common Council, February i, passed a resolution that a system of water works embodying the reservoir plan, with Grand River as a source of supply, be adopted as suitable and most reliable for supplying the city. March 22 the Aldermen decided to open Fulton street to low water mark on both sides of the river. Peter Hogan, an engineer from Albany, N. Y., employed to investigate our water sources here, made a report to the Council, April 5, recommending the use of Carrier and Coldbrook Creeks, and accompanied his report with an elaborate plan for distributive pipes through the city, and an estimate of their cost. In May the old fire hand engine and hose cart were sold to the city of Hastings for $305. This engine had been in use twenty-two years. May 12 the construction of a City Hall building at the corner of Pearl and Ottawa streets was declared necessary-a project that was never carried out. In June the city purchased the Pearl and Leonard street bridges, and made them free of toll; also purchased the ground for Lincoln park, issuing bonds therefor to the amount of $I,oo000. July 30 the electors of the city adopted the proposed system of water supply and with it the proposition to raise the necessary funds by the issue of bonds to the amount of $250,000. The vote stood 1,540 in its favor to I83 opposed. In October and November the water mains were laid in Canal, Monroe and Bridge streets. The citizens then felt the relief of being out of the woods and at least partly out of the fire, in consequence of having for the first time a supply of water for public use. i874. The first important municipal act was the purchase of a tract of five city lots, 162 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. corner of Canal and Coldbrook streets, and adjoining the river, for a location for the water works, where the pumping house now stands. At the end of January, the city procured a deed of the Bridge street bridge, and from that time forward all the city bridges were free of toll. In July, proceedings that had been taken to open Kent street through to Pearl, were terminated by an adverse decision of the State Supreme Court. Wood pavements were laid on the lower part of Monroe and Pearl streets, and on Ottawa from Pearl to Monroe, during the fall. In the latter part of October, Judge Withey of The Circuit Court of the United States for the Western District of Michigan, for cause shown, ordered the issue of a peremptory writ of mandamus, directing the city to raise, by tax, funds to pay the interest and principal of bonds which had been issued in aid of railroads. November 2, permission was given the Board of Public Works to lay a water main across the river on Pearl street bridge. During the summer the reservoir on top of the hill was built. The water system was tested November io, and proved efficient and satisfactory. The improvement called the West Side Ditch, on the west line of the city, was made this year. I875. During the first week in February, I875, the fire alarm telegraph system was put in operation. March i, the Common Council passed an ordinance providing that no female should be employed in the management, or to assist in the management, of any bar or saloon, except the wife of the proprietor, under penalty of a fine of not less than $io nor more than $ioo. March 23, the Grand Rapids and Reeds Lake Street Railway Company was granted the use of certain streets for laying its track. July i9, the Council appropriated $50,000 more for water works; issuing bonds of the city therefor, which were readily disposed of at a premium. The Board of Supervisors, at their October session, authorized the building of a toll-bridge across Grand River, at a point near the northwest corner of Grand Rapids township. During this year sewers were built aggregating in length 13,709 feet. The aggregate cost of sewer construction was nearly $30,000. Grading and paving with wood and stone was done in Monroe, Lyon and Pearl streets-2,885 lineal feet of paving. Streets were graded and surfaced with gravel to an aggregate length of I5,253 feet. The longest work of this sort was on Madison Avenue, from Cherry to Hall street. The total expenditure on street and sewer work, was $89,I63.82. The year closed with improvements under contract, estimated to cost $124,850. I876. According to an estimate made early in January, the entire cost of the water works system up to that time, including sites for engine-house, reservoir and settling basin, amounted to $341,000. March I3, the Council authorized the purchase of a new fire engine, at a cost not to exceed $4,500. June 5, the Council authorized the printing of $50,000 more of water bonds, and the immediate issue of $12,000 of them. These were twenty-year bonds, bearing eight per cent. interest, and were denominated "City of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Water Loan Bonds, Third Series." August 14 the Mayor reported that he had disposed of twelve $i,ooo bonds at 8 per cent. premium. August 21, he was authorized to sell $20,000 more. September 25, he reported the sale of this $20,000, and the receipt of a premium of $i,6io on them. October 2, the Chief of Police and his force were instructed to enforce all the Sunday laws and ordinances, within the corporation limits. In the following week, the Chief, in a communication to the Mayor, reported that he found the force "inadequate to the proper performance of that duty." His communication was returned to him without further instructions. At a subsequent meeting, October i6, the resolution was modified, so as to direct that the city ordinances relative to Sunday be enforced by the proper authorities. November I3, the Council directed the purchase of a new Silsby Fire Steamer, exchanging therefor the steamer Campau, and $4,000 cash; the contract to include a hose-cart, and the repair of other apparatus. I877. In a report appended to the Governor's message in January, the municipal debt of the city of Grand Rapids was stated at $56o,ooo. At its first session in January, the Council amended the ordinance relative to nuisances, to permit fast driving of horses on Jefferson and Madison Avenues, south from Wealthy Avenue, except on Sundays. January 29, an ordinance was passed, requiring an accurate registration of all deaths in the city, causes thereof, and places where de FIRE ALARMS-TELEPHONE-PAVING-ELECTRIC LIGHTS. 163 ceased were buried; also requiring certificates of physicians as to disease and decease. April i 6, the Council decided to duplicate the boiler at the pumping works. The police reports showed 978 arrests in I876, and 1,052 this year. I878. Municipal affairs started quietly. The first important event noted was the purchase of a new bell for the Fire Department weighing about 4,000 pounds, which arrived April 13, and was placed in the tower and the fire alarm signal wires attached. April 27, the Board of Public Works directed the purchase of a street roller. In May a contract was made for wood to be delivered to the poor of the city, for the ensuing six months: Beech and maple, i6 inch, $I.75 per cord; beech and maple, 48 inch, $4. oo per cord; pine edgings; 48 inch, $1.25 per cord; pine slabs, 48 inch, $2 per cord. June 24, the Marshal was directed to remove the fences from the Fulton Street Park, and from what is now known as Monument Park. General James Shields visited the city May 7, and was given a reception by the Mayor and Common Council, after which he was escorted about the city. 1879. In January the Council resolved that the city should light the tower clock at the foot of Monroe street. An ordinance passed in March required that persons proposing to erect or repair buildings, within certain prescribed districts, should submit plans and specifications thereof to the Board of Public Works for approval, and obtain permits. The financial statement at the close of the fiscal year showed a city bonded indebtedness, other than school bonds, of $457,350. The general assessments of the year footed up $ I45,350; special assessments, $25,565; total, $I70,915. May 2I the municipal officers of Detroit visited this city and were given a cordial reception. June 23 an ordinance was passed to allow the West Side Street Railway Company to extend its line to and across Pearl street bridge, and thence to the Union Depot. September 7 the Mayor and most of the city officers and members of the Council made a visiting excursion to Detroit, where they were handsomely received and entertained. September 27 a similar visit was made to Cleveland, Ohio. October I3 the Council decided that telephones should be put into the engine houses. October 20 a new lattice bridge at Leonard street, and a new engine house at the corner of Canal and Leonard streets, were contracted for. Prominent among municipal improvements this year were the building of engine houses No. 2 and 5; the rebuilding of Leonard street bridge; the grading and paving of a part of Jefferson avenue, of North and South Division streets; the regrading and paving of Pearl street; the grading of West Fulton street, of Watson street, Plainfield avenue; and the building of sewers in Cass, South Division, Prescott and other streets. A change was made in the law governing the Police Court, giving it exclusive jurisdiction over examinations for crimes committed within the city, and over trials for petty offenses. i88o. At the first meeting of the Council, January 5, the repaving of Canal street with cedar blocks, from Bridge street north to the city limits, was declared necessary. April 19 an ordinance was passed giving certain franchises to the Grand Rapids Electric Light and Power Company. The report at the close of the fiscal year showed revenues from general, special and miscellaneous sources of $305,482.23. The indebtedness, aside from school bonds, was $442,000. Receipts of special taxes from liquor dealers and brewers were about $23,000. Municipal acts during this year were chiefly in the line of regular routine business. Much street work in the aggregate was done in nearly all parts of the city, including sewerage. I88i. At the end of January a new bell was put in Engine House No. i, on Lagrave street. February 14, the Council ordered the purchase of fifteen two-bushel baskets, to be stored in the city offices ready for carrying out books and papers in case of fire. April ii, the Grand Rapids Electric Light and Power Company were granted leave to erect an addition of one hundred feet to the top of the fire alarm bell tower, for making an experiment as to lighting the city with tower electric lights. April I 3, an exhibition was given of electric light on Pearl street bridge. April 26, the duties of the City Physician in detail were defined by the Council, by resolution, which also made him a member ex-officio of the Board of Health. Reports of the city finances showed an outstanding bonded indebtedness, at the end of the fiscal year, of $432,000, exclusive of school bonds. The total assess 164 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. ments of the year were: General, $ 6 I,60; special, $92,317. June i6, the Board of Supervisors authorized the construction of a railroad bridge across the lower end of Island No. 3, by the Grand Rapids, Newaygo and Lake Shore Railroad Company. At the same session steps were taken to test and determine the title to the Public or Court House Square, and in October suits were begun with that object. June 20, the Common Council imposed a license tax of $25 for non-residents running hacks in the city. July i8, an ordinance was passed excluding velocipedes and bicycles from the sidewalks in business portions of the city east of the river. An elaborate report was made by City Surveyor A. C. Sekell, July 23, to the Board of Public Works, concerning the disposal of sewerage into the river. It appeared that nearly all the east side drainage from Fourth Avenue on the south to Coldbrook street on the north, was by sewers having outlet near the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad bridge. This outlet was much complained of as a nuisance, on account of the stench arising therefrom. The Surveyor reported two plans of relief, but it does not appear that his plans were adopted. August 8, a contract was made for laying water mains in East and West Fulton streets. August 22, Allen Hoag was given the stone in Lincoln Park, in consideration of making certain improvements therein. An ordinance, adopted November 7, provided that wagons drawing loads of more than 2,500 pounds in the streets must have tires three or more inches wide. November I4, the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners established eleven districts for day and night patrol duty, and prescribed the service therein. On the 28th a memorial on the death of WVilliam Hovey, member of the Board of Public Works, was ordered spread upon the record of the Council; and on the 7th of December a similar tribute was paid to the memory of ex-Mayor Henry S. Smith. i882. January 23 the time as indicated by Albert Preusser's "regulator" was adopted as the "standard city time." In February and March a few cases of smallpox in the city stirred up the genius of the aldermen and health officers to devise prompt measures for preventing the spread of that disease. It soon subsided. On the 4th of April a resolution was adopted to the effect that in making assessment rolls, and in transacting other city business in relation thereto, the original plat of "Tanner Taylor's Addition" should be followed and treated as a valid plat; and also in relation to the streets, lanes, alleys, and grounds dedicated to public use thereon. An ordinance was adopted, April 17, to govern the construction and operation of the Grand Rapids Junction and Transfer Railroad. April 24 a building for the use of the Sexton and lot owners was ordered erected in Greenwood Cemetery. June I2 rooms for police headquarters were rented in the block at the corner of Lyon and Campau streets. They had previously been for many years at the corner of Monroe and Tonia. An ordinance for the Fuller electric light was passed August 7. In the middle of October eleven electric, I 76 gas, and 430 naphtha lamps were in use upon the streets at the expense of the city. November 20 the Fuller electric light was formally adopted by the Council for street use. 1883. March 3 contract was executed for the building of an iron bridge across the river at Bridge street. Mlarch 19 stone stairs from the base to the upper level of Crescent Park were declared necessary. June 18 the Council adopted Detroit time as the standard, setting the "city regulator" forward ten and a half minutes. July 2 an iron bridge at Fulton street was declared necessary. August 7 the building of an engine house in the Eiighth Ward was ordered. At the end of October an ordinance was passed prohibiting the blowing' of steam whistles in the city, and was vetoed by the Mayor. November 6 the street lighting contract was awarded the Michigan Iron Works Light and Power Company, and the Mayor vetoed that. Electric lights went out of fashion for a short time. btlt a new contract was made December I3, with tlhe same company. November 19 the city time was changed again, and a little later turned back 28 minutes to the "Central Standard. i884. In January the inner walls of the first and second stories of the jail were lined with boiler iron. Febrluary 25, the Street Railway Company was ordered to lay double tracks in Canal and MIonroe streets, and the repaving of Canal street was declared necessary. May 12, formal orders were passed for the repaving of Monroe and Canal streets. May 21, the Board of Public \Vorks was CABLE ROAD FRANCHISE-KILLING SPARROWS. 165 requested to begin the erection of the iron bridge at Fulton street. June 23, the Street Railway Company was given permission to lay double track in Fulton, Lagrave and East streets, and Wealthy Avenue. September i, the Third Ward was divided into two election precincts, Wealthy Avenue being made the dividing line. The Council in September decided that $6,ooo be placed in the annual budget to begin the building of the bridge at Sixth and Newberry streets; also $20,000 for the Fulton street bridge superstructure. November 2, it was voted that street cars be taxed $15 per year. November i i, a report in Council was made in favor of granting a cable road franchise on Lyon, Union and East Bridge streets, and this recommendation was adopted. November 25, the triangular park at the head of Monroe street was formally set apart for the erection of the monument and fountain in memory of soldiers who had given their lives for their country. 1885. Two amendments to the city charter were drafted and approved by the Council in January, and forwarded to the Leegislature-one to grant women the right to vote in school elections; the other with reference to the employment of city prisoners in the jail. February i6, the Valley City Street and Cable Railway ordinance was passed. April 25, the bid was accepted of R. L. Day & Co., of Boston, to take the City Hall bonds at 105.03 and accrued interest; netting a premium to the city of $6,925.50. June 2, an iron bridge at Pearl street was declared necessary. June 15, the Common Council decided to accept a proposition of the Electric Light and Power Company to light the city with electricity by the tower system, at a cost of $26,000 a year, the city to own the towers at the end of five years. This act was vetoed by the Mayor, and again passed over his veto at the next meeting; but it was met June 27, by an injunction issued from the Superior Court. Provision was made by the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners, June I5, for putting in operation in their departments the telephone and signal system. June 29, they were authorized to place signal boxes inside the curb line at street corners. The question of bonding the city in the sum of $300,000, for water works, was submitted to the electors July 7, and negatived. The Common Council, in August, rented ground toi a wood and hay market on the west side of Kent street, between Hastings and Trowbridge. December 21, the Council determined to make war upon English sparrows, and the Poundmaster was instructed to exterminate them as speedily as possible. There is no record of the number of birds impounded under this order. About $78,250 was expended this year for street and sewer improvement. i886. Among the acts of the first session of the Council in I886 was one authorizing the committee on buildings to sell the stone broken by the prisoners in the jail-yard. January i i an ordinance was passed for regulating the construction of buildings. February I, in Council, the scheme of killing sparrows by municipal order was abandoned. From the annual reports at the close of the fiscal year it appears that the bonded indebtedness of the city, including school bonds, April i, was $701,000. The State Supreme Court decided, April 29, substantially, that the county had no title in the public square. September 8, W. P. Coats, under contract with the Board of Public Works, laid a cast-iron water main, 6o00 feet long and sixteen inches in diameter, across the river near the pumping works. It was put together on stagings erected for the purpose and lowered bodily into a trench excavated in the rock at the bottom of the stream. A smaller, wrought iron, pipe had been put across there eleven years before, but had become useless. The laying of this larger main without mishaps, and in perfect condition, was considered a remarkable feat of engineering. October I i the Grand Rapids Hydraulic Company made a second offer to purchase the water works of the city, and to pay therefor $465,066.39; or to lease and perfect them at an annual rent of $25,000 for thirty years. The proposal was referred to a committee who reported it adversely to the Council. 1887. At the election, April 4, the vote of the city on the Prohibition amendment to the State Constitution, submitted by the Legislature, was-Yes, 1,385; No, 4,876. In May the Grand Rapids National Bank was made the depository for city funds for a year. The fourteenth annual reunion of the State Firemen's Association was held here, May 3 and 4. The association was given the rise of the Common Council Room for its deliberations; was warmly welcomed 166 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. and tendered the hospitalities of the city by the Mayor, and the Fire Department gave it special opportunities for inspection of apparatus and engine houses, adding a review on parade. May i6 a new electric light ordinance was passed. June 6 the Council voted to extend the time for closing saloons and restaurants from Io to i I o'clock P. M.; and on the 20th they gave another hour, making midnight the closing time, so far as a vote of the Aldermen could do that against a law of the State which prescribed io o'clock V. M. as the limit. An amendment to the city charter, which took effect May i, made important changes in regard to the duties of the Treasurer and Marshal, also as to the Board of Health, and some other matters. July iI an ordinance was passed granting franchises in certain streets to the Valley City Street and Cable Railway Company. July 22 Judge Burlingame of the Superior Court rendered a decision to the effect that title to the public square was vested in the city. September 12 right of way was granted in the city for the Grand Rapids, Lansing and Detroit Railroad. The Cherry street railway ordinance, at a third trial, and after two vetoes by the Mayor, was passed October Io. The Board of Public Works contracted for an elevator in the City Hall early in August. In October the Council contracted with the Phoenix Furniture Company for furnishing the rooms of the City Hall. The so-called "iron-clad" liquor law became operative in the latter part of September. Its very stringent provisions may be found in the statute books. i888. The Council, January 3, changed the amount of fine imposed for violation of the street ordinances, from a sum not exceeding $500 to one of "not less than $ i nor more than $25." January 9, several ordinances were amended, and an ordinance relative to vagrants passed in I875 was repealed. January 16, a resolution was adopted in Council recommending the raising by the county of $I50,000 to build a court house. The Valley City Street and Cable Railway Company, on January 23, was granted a franchise in Grand Avenue north from Crescent Avenue. Ordinances relative to fires, dogs, buildings and obstructions along the river shores, the storage of inflammable or explosive oils or fluids, the fire alarm telegraph, and houses of ill-fame, were amended. There was much similar legislation by the municipal legislature during I888, amounting nearly to a general revision of the ordinances. The April election returns showed 9,362 votes cast in the city. The Mayor's annual report showed the bonded debt of the city, including school bonds, to be $768,000. The Treasurer's report, April 2I, showed a balance of $i 84,455. I5 in the treasury. The assessments during the year for general and special purposes had been $283,030. Among the early acts of the incoming Council was the granting of upward of one hundred and forty licenses for liquor saloons. The ordinance relative to building within fire limits was materially amended in June. September 26 the new City Hall was dedicated with formal ceremonies. The Council met in the old rooms for the purpose of bidding them good-bye, which was done by giving three cheers; after which, the members, led by a band of music, marched to the new hall. The first session of the Council in its new quarters was held October i. The persons having positions for the care of the hall had been previously appointed. The Custodian was Charles T. Brenner. I889. January 15 the Council passed a resolution allowing the boys and girls to slide down hill with sleds on several streets. In the latter part of February the Common Council petitioned the Legislature for authority to procure by loan $80,ooo to improve the water works, extend the mains, and erect a stand pipe. The act was passed, and the work done this year. An ordinance granting a water-gas franchise was passed March 4. October I4 the Street Railway Company was granted a franchise to use electricity as a motive power for street cars. Most of the rest of municipal doings to this date were of the usual business routine order. September 27 the annual tax budget, amounting to $351,423.33, was adopted. By ordinance a portion of Almy and Oakes streets has been vacated, to give more room for railroad station and track uses adjacent to the Union Depot. CHAPTER XV. FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS. THIS record must be paragraphed briefly, in the form of annals. Minor details, and more comprehensive descriptions, would make of it too long a chapter. But these will be of abiding interest. 1833. The pioneer family had been here just eleven days, and had scarcely begun building their house at the foot of Monroe street. The ladies, and those of the trading station, took tea together, and there is a tradition that Uncle Louis and Uncle Joel, and the few other men about, remembered the day temperately, with a slight moistening; also, that the missionary on the west side, tried to explain to the Indians why the Fourth of July was a day of jubilee among the Americans. 1834. Alvin Wansey was captain on parade, and nearly every other man in the settlement was next in rank. They formed a procession on the Indian path where Monroe street is. Robert M. Barr was at the head with his fiddle. They marched up the trail and down and about, and sang and shouted, and fiddled and hurrahed. Many Indians joined in the sport. They went across the river and had more marching, and Chief Blackskin laughed then if he never did at any other time in his life. Then they had a ride down the river and back in bateaux. What the fur traders and the priest did, nobody has recorded. I835. Small neighborhood gathering and dinner at a farm house south of town. Speech making brief; but much patriotic merriment. 1836. Dinner on Prospect Hill, at which nearly everybody in the settlement was present. Among them, yet surviving, were Dr. Charles Shepard, Charles G. Mason, Alanson Cramton, and Mrs. Harriet Burton. Cramton's bugle was the leading and usually the only instrument for patriotic music in those days. 1837. An excursion down the river on the new steamer "Governor Mason" to Grandville and back. Celebration, with oration, on the boat. Alanson Cramton, with his bugle, furnished music. A pioneer used to call it the liveliest Fourth he ever saw. Four liberty poles were raised at Grandville, but not one was standing when night came. 1838. A celebration, with dinner and speeches, at a house where the Peninsular Club building now stands, and a procession headed by the Marshal of the Day, over the hill and down the steep declivity at Pearl street, to the foot of Monroe, and thence to the National Hotel. 1839. Celebration where now is the northwest corner of the city, near Billius Stocking's residence. Two tamarack poles were raised. Daniel C. Stocking read the Declaration of Independence, printed on cloth in the center of a bedquilt,and delivered a brief oration. A crowd gathered round, who took the larger liberty pole and offered to plant it for the man who first offered a bottle of brandy. Lovell Moore took it, and it was set in front of the Mission house, where he then lived. 1840. Long tables were spread on the east bank of the river a short distance above Huron street, in a bower constructed of green bushes, thrown upon stakes and poles, where Canton Smith spread a sumptuous dinner, liquid refreshments included without extra charge. Indians from the west side were invited over, and feasted. Ira S. Hatch danced a jig upon the tables after the dinner. Chief Mex-ci-ne-ne offered a toast, "The Pale Faces and the Red Men." 1841. The Fourth came on Sunday, celebration on the 3d; 13 guns at sunrise; 26 guns at sunset (on Prospect Hill); exercises at the court house. The Young Men's Association had a little celebration at 9 A. M. in the room of the Dutch Reformed church, with oration by Lewis Tower. President 168 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. of the Day, John Almy; Orator, Simon M. Johnson. Temperance celebration at Grandville on the 5th; Orator, George Martin; Temperance Address by James Ballard. 1842. Boat ride on steamer Paragon to Grandville and back; celebration at Court House. President, George Coggeshall; Orator, Silas G. Harris. Dinner at National Hotel. Guns, of course. Nobody intoxicated. Down-the-river folks had a celebration at Tallmadge. Orator, the Rev. C. Church. i843. Thirteen big guns on Prospect Hill at sunrise, and 26 at sunset. Excursion down the river and back by steamer Paragon, Capt. W. Sibley. Celebration exercises in Congregational church. President, Lucius Lyon; Orator, Charles H. Taylor. Dinner at National Hotel. I844. Salute at sunrise. Excursion to Grandville on the steamer Paragon; fare 50 cents. Procession at home, also, and exercises at the Congregational church. President, John Almy; Orator, Thos. B. Church; music by the band. Dinner at the Mansion House, $i per couple. i845. Firing of salutes. General jubilee, but no formal exercises. The temperance people held a celebration on the west side of the river. Oration by G. L. Rogers. Temperance toasts in cold water, with cheers and guns, but no other instrumental music, and many signed the pledge. I846. No organized celebration. Day enjoyed by everybody in his or her own way. Thus it would appear from the newspaper silence concerning what was or was not done. I847. No formal observance of the day. Several family and neighborhood reunions. A number of parties took lumber wagon rides out of town to attend country balls. 1848. President of the Day, Joshua Boyer; Orator, James Miller. Salute of 13 guns at sunrise, and 30 at sunset. Procession to the Congregational church, where the exercises of the day were held. i849. No preconcerted programme Business suspended, and the boys enjoyed themselves with candy, fire-crackers and powder. The ladies of St. Mark's church served refreshments. I85o. The day was observed in a highly creditable manner. Orator, R. P. Sinclair. Procession, including three fire companies, marched to the National Hotel, where refreshments were served i85i. Observed with salutes, procession, exercises at the new Swedenborgian church on Division street, and dinner at Rathbun House. President, John Almy; Orator, the Rev. F. A. Blades. i852. The citizens celebrated in the good old fashioned style, with salutes, procession, exercises on the Public Square, and dinner at National Hotel. President, John Almy; Orator, Thos. B. Church. I853. Exercises on the Public Square. Orator, A. J. Eldred. Dinner at the National Hotel. Fire works in the evening, which by accident mostly exploded together, creating a sensation not down in the programme. I854. Usual ceremonies. Procession. Exercises on Island No. i. President, John M. Fox; Orator, P. R. L. Peirce. Music by the Valley City Band. Dinner at National Hotel. Fireworks on the Island and on Prospect Hill. i855. Thirty-one guns at sunrise, with ringing of bells. Procession. Exercises and dinner on Island No. i, reached by a foot bridge. President, Truman H. Lyon; Orator, Flavius J. Littlejohn. Fireworks, followed by a torchlight procession in the evening. i856. Gathering on the Public Square. Oration by Lucius Patterson. Dinners at places about town. Good time generally. Fireworks on the Park in the evening. Frank White had his left hand nearly all shot away by a premature discharge of the cannon. I857. Cannon and bells. Procession to Public Square. President, George Martin; Orator, S. S. N. Greeley. Valley City Guards, Capt. D. McConnell, on parade. Dinner and toasts at the National. I858. Three military and three fire companies in procession, also Sons of St. Patrick, Common Council, Old Settlers, old soldiers, and Barnhart's Band. Orator, Thomas D. Warrall. Guns and bells in morning. Dinner at Rathbun House. Exercises on the Park. Pyrotechnic display on the Park in the evening. I859. Usual noise of guns and bells in morning, and crackers all day; an unusual number of strangers in town, estimated at I5,000oo. Oration by the Rev. Courtney Smith on the Public Square. Grand Rapids Guards and Artillery in procession with band. Balloon ascension from Square, by FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS. 169 W. D. Bannister. He landed about three miles west of the city. i86o. Enthusiastic celebration. Guns and bells. Estimated that 20,000 visitors were in town. Long procession. Exercises on the Public Square. Oration by Chancellor Tappan of the State University. Procession of "Antique Horribles." Greased pole contest for silver watch at top; taken by Samuel Stout. Wheelbarrow races blindfolded, first prize, $5, awarded Madison Welch. Various festivals in the evening. I86I. The Third Infantry Regiment of volunteers had left for the field. Recruiting for more and for two cavalry regiments had begun. Celebration on the Public Square. The citizens had erected the tallest liberty pole ever pht there, with a long streamer bearing the motto: "The Union, Now and Forever, One and Inseparable." Large gathering. Oration by Thomas B. Church. The "Horribles" paraded; a laughable sight, but at the coming on of civil war seemed sadly out of time. I862. The darkest period of the war was upon us, and patriotism was tempered with serious apprehensions and forebodings. Celebration on the Public Square, but less joyous and enthusiastic than usual. Oration by George Gray. i863. City full of people. Steamboats and excursion trains crowded. President of the Day, Judge S. L. Withey; Orator, U. S. Senator Jacob M. Howard. Exercises on Island No. i. Balloon ascension from same place, by Prof. Ayeres. I864. Impromptu celebration. Little display. Exercises in Hovey's grove, west side. President of the Day, Henry Fralick; Orator, Col. George Gray. Soldiers' fair, by the ladies. I865. Being just after the close of the war, the celebration this year was naturally enthusiastic, and notable for the length of the procession, and for the dinner given the soldiers on the Pearl Street Bridge. President, Judge S. L. Withey; Orator, the Rev. Robert M. Hatfield, of Chicago. Exercises in Hovey's grove. Salute at sunset. Fireworks from Crescent hill. i866. Ordinary celebration. Exercises in the grove north of East Fulton street on the hill. President, Henry Fralick; Orator, Phillip J. D. Van Dyke, of Detroit. 1867. Elaborate celebration. Special trains on the railroads. President, W. D. Foster; Orator, Byron G. Stout, of Pontiac. Dinner at the Rathbun House. Fireworks at night. I868. The new steam fire engines, "David Caswell" and "Louis Campau," were prominent features of the procession, The "Horribles" added to the general merriment, but were not a complete success. President, Henry Fralick; Orator, Thos. B. Church. Fireworks from Island No. 2. I869. Sunday. Celebrated bythe Saengerbund Society in Pettibone's garden on the west side. Monday, the fifth, was informally observed, and rather quietly celebrated. Business generally suspended. Steamboat and railroad excursions. Good Templars had a social gathering in Hovey's grove, and a sumptuous dinner was given in the lower hall of Sweet's Hotel by the ladies of the Congregational Church Society. I870. There were the usual salutes, and procession, witnessed by crowds of people. Exercises in the skating rink, on Waterloo street. President, Henry Fralick; Orator, George B. Jocelyn. Balloon ascension in the afternoon by Prof. LaMountain, who landed in the town of Cascade. 1871. The usual booming of cannon, clangor of bells, and noise of explosives at the hands of patriotic Young America. An immense crowd, long procession, and exercises in Fulton Street Park. President, Charles H. Taylor. Addresses by prominent citizens. Dinners given by civic and religious societies in various parts of the city. The fireworks comprised thirty-three pieces. The "Horribles" or "Birds of Paradise," had a grand and unique street display. i872. No general celebration. Many citizens visted Grand Haven, at which place a celebration was held, and the Cutler House was formally opened. I873. An attractive programme was arranged by the Turn Verein Society, including a procession, and exercises in the Fulton Street Park. Orator, Col. I. E. Messmore. i874. No general celebration. The Arion Society celebrated at Tusch's garden, West Side. The Caledonians assembled by Reeds Lake at Miller's Landing, and the Grand Rapids Guard picnicked at the Pioneer grounds, Reeds Lake. I875. Sunday. Remembered by infor J170 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. mal gatherings at Reeds Lake, and at Turn Verein Hall. Monday, the fifth, Barnum's circus exhibited on the West Side. Over 20,000 visitors were in town. In the afternoon several representatives of the pressRobert Wilson of the Eagle, F. F. Jeffres of the Times, Ed. J. Clark of the Democrat, and Sid. F. Stevens of the Saturday Evening Post-made a balloon ascension in company with Prof. Donaldson, to the tune of "Up in a balloon boys" by the band, and landed about six miles out of town toward Ada. i876. Centennial year. The citizens of Grand Rapids had one of the finest celebrations in all the country. There were notably fine decorations, chief among them the centennial arch on Campau place. Smaller arches were reared on Canal and West Bridge streets. Forepaugh's circus was in town, and formed a part of the parade, which was the largest ever seen here. Exercises in Fulton Street Park. Orator, T. B. Church. About 25,000 people from outside visited the city. I877. A respectable procession, and the usual ceremonies at the Park. Judge S. L. Withey was President of the Day, with a Vice-President from every ward in the city, and nearly every township of the county. Orator, T. F. Hildreth. The Caledonians had a picnic at the lake, and there was a cricket match between the Milwaukee and Grand Rapids clubs on the fair ground. I878. The celebration of the io2d anniversary was creditable to the city, consisting of the usual procession and exercises. Charles Fluhrer, Orator. In the afternoon was a fantastic procession of "Horribles." 1879. No general public celebration. The German citizens spent the day at the German Workingmen's gardens, West Side, and the Caledonians at Reeds Lake. i88o. Sunday. No formal celebration. Young America began to enjoy the festive fire-cracker and stick of candy on Saturday, and on Monday places of business were generally closed. The Grand Rapids Guard had a picnic, drill and target-shoot on the Black Hills. The German Workingmen's Society passed the day at their garden on Jefferson street; oration by T. B. Church. I88I. The shooting of President Garfield on the 2d of July turned the day for rejoicing to one of sadness and suspense. About 20,000 strangers were in the city to witness one of the finest displays Grand Rapids ever made. Exercises in the Park. President, Col. I. E. Messmore; Orator, Emery A. Storrs, of Chicago. 1882. Long procession, municipal and military, with numerous trades displays. Prize drill and sham battle at the fair ground. Exercises in Fulton Street Park. President, Capt. H. N. Moore; Orator, Spruille Burford. i883. Very quiet. Many citizens went to Reeds Lake, Kalamazoo, Muskegon and Grand Haven. 1884. No formal observance. The usual noise of fire-crackers and tin horns. i885. This year the citizens took two days in which to expend their patriotismthe third and fourth-and made as fine a celebration as was ever known here. The decorations were profuse, and the programme for both days, including fireworks at the close of each, was excellent and well executed. Exercises on the Fourth, in Fulton Street Park. President, E. F. Uhl; Orator, Maj. A. B. Morse, of Ionia. i886. Not an eminently successful celebration, though well laid out. There was a procession, and a holiday service in Fulton Street Park. Oration by John W. Stone. "H-orribles" in the afternoon.. 1887. Showers in the morning had a tendency to dampen both ardor and gunpowder, but, the suln coming out brightly, later in the day a very pleasant celebration was had, mostly at Reeds Lake, where numerous attractions were offered, including boat-races, swimming-races, tub race, and fireworks. There was a military drill at the fair ground, well attended. I888. Salute at sunrise, oo guns. Grand parade. Trades display pronounced by committee the finest ever made in Michigan. Exercises at the Park. President, Edwin F. Uhl; Orator, W. P. Wells, of Detroit. Fireworks in the evening at the Sixth street bridge. I889. The central feature of the celebration was the laying of the corner stone of the County Coulrt House. There was a long street parade, and an address by Marsden C. Burch. President of the Day, Col. George G. Briggs. Fireworks at Sixth street bridge in the evening. Large crowds went to Reeds Lake and indulged in variotis festivities. CHAPTER XVI. CLIMATE-TEMPERATURE-STORMS-FLOODS-RAINFALL. THE climate of this section of western Michigan is undoubtedly as mild and equable as that of any region of this country in the same latitude east of the main chain of the Rocky Mountains. The early settlers were in the habit of calling it delightful, and thought it the finest and healthiest in the world. In this latter respect, after the development of ague and malarial fevers, incident to the settlement and improvement of this then western country, perhaps some of them changed their minds; yet on the whole the judgment expressed at the beginning of this article must be very nearly correct. The fact has frequently been noted in the past forty years, that during the prevalence of northerly and northwesterly winter storms, with cold winds, thermometers on this side of Lake Michigan have indicated a temperature ten or twelve degrees higher than was experienced on the west side. This was undoubtedly due to the modifying influence of the deep waters, over which the winds came. Very seldom, if ever, until the winter of 1872-73 did the peach trees of this section of the State suffer much in consequence of midwinter freezes. In that severe winter, and in two or three since, there appears to have been a change from earlier years in the direction of the "polar wave" currents; the prevailing winds of the cold cycles coming from the north and northeast over land, instead of over large bodies of water. But despite these changes, the average comparative mildness of the climate is such that peaches are successfully grown in western Michigan at a higher latitude than in any other portion of the country. It is also believed that in point of healthfulness, whether as affected by heat and cold, or by the humidity of the atmosphere, this region of Grand Rapids and about will compare favorably with any other. There are of course exceptions to all general rules, and some items of extremes of heat and cold, aside from statements of average temperatures, may be of interest. The testimony of pioneers here in reference to the first few years, is not sufficiently exact in detail to be conclusive. Generally their talk is of moderate and pleasant seasons. No special instances of intense cold in winter or of extraordinary heat in summer at a very early day are mentioned. The winter of I842-43, commonly called the "hard winter," was not so remarkable for its extreme cold as for the deep snow and its long continuance. Nor were the few periods of excessive heat in summer, if such there were, much noticed by the pioneer residents. July 10, i849, was a hot day, the highest temperature being 99~, and the average in the shade 95~. In January, 1855, the highest temperature was 56~; the lowest 8' below zero. The mean temperature for the month was 26.66~. In January, I856, highest 36~; lowest 9~ below zero; mean for the month I5.5~. In February, I856, the highest was 28~; the lowest 24~ below zero, and I6~ was the mean for the month. January I8, 1857, the thermometer indicated 28~ below zero. On the morning of June 4, 1859, there was ice one-eighth of an inch thick on water in vessels standing in the open air, and on the morning of June ii, following, the ground was "white as a sheet" with frost. December, I859, and February, i86o, were marked by some severe freezes. The first day of January, I864, was one long remembered for the severity of the cold. January 9, i866, was remarked upon upon as the coldest of that season, I4~ below zero in the morning. A record kept by Dr. E. S. Holmes for the Smithsonian Institute showed the maximum temperature in July, I866, to be 82.42~; for July, I867, 83.35~; for July, i868, 94~. The mean temperature for July, i866, was 75.76~; for July, I867, 72.52~; for July, i868, 82~. This last was remarked upon as the hottest July known 172 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. for a great many years. A drouth prevailed at the same time. No rain fell for fifty days. It was followed early in August by weather so cool that overcoats were convenient. The winter of I872-73 was marked by five successive cycles of extreme cold; one at Christmas time, one about January 4, another January 28-29, another about February 24, and the last during the first week in March. January 29 the mercury marked 24~ to 27~ below zero at points in and near the city. Again in I875, from the 4th to the 9th of February was a period of intense cold, going at the latter date to 36~ below zero. Some data relating to the cold of the two winters of I872-73 and I874-75, afford an interesting study. December 22, i872, the temperature in this city was 15~ below zero; December 23, 20~ below; December 24, on Canal street, 24~ to 33~ below; 38' below on the West Side; in Grand Rapids Township 330 below; in Gaines Township i6~ to 20~ below. The 28th and 29th of January were cold days and nights. Some of the markings were: In this city and about, 20~ to 24~ below; at Grand Haven, I8~ below; at Montague, 20~ below; at Ludington, I4~ below; at Manistee 23~ to 28~ below. The month of February was milder, and pleasant mostly, but the first week in March gave 8~ to i0~ below again. That was called by some one at the State Horticultural meeting, "the coldest winter in a hundred years." Thirty times or more during the season the mercury registered below zero. The winter of I873-74 was mild; then came the still more severe one of i874-75, when, as one fruit man said, it not only "scooped peaches" but killed many apple trees. December and January were cold, but the first half of February was almost a continuous cold blizzard-the 6th, 7th and 8th were especially cold-and the mercury coquetted in the region of 15~ to 20~ below zero much of the time for about fourteen days. Here are some of the weather quotations: In the east part of the city, February 9, 24~ to 35~ below zero; Walker and Alpine, 400 to 50o below; Englishville, 320 below; Grand Rapids Town, 39~ below; in Cascade, 35~ below. Hersey reported for several days in I875: February 6, 28~ below; February 7, 33~ below; February 8, 230 below; February 9, 380 below. A Coopersville report was as follows: February 8, 20~ below; February 9, 44~ below; February I3, 22~ below; February 14, i6~ below; February 15, 30~ below. (These reports are of observations taken about daybreak). The winter of i876-77, some of the old settlers said, was the mildest and pleasantest for fifty years. July I6 and I7, I878, were marked by a hot wave, thermometers indicating as high as I04~ in the shade, and in some places I20-' and upward in the sun. There were a number of cases of sunstroke in this part of the State, but very few of them were fatal. Some later dates of severe cold have been: February 4, i88i, 23~ below zero; December i8, i882, io~ below zero; January 4 and 24, and December 26, 1884, from I2~ to I8~ below zero; March 17, I885, 5~ below, and March 2I, i885, 300 below zero, as reported by persons in the vicinity of the fair ground. The mean temperature at Grand Rapids for a period of thirteen years, beginning with i871, as deduced by L. H. Streng from his daily record, was 47.63~. His record also shows the interesting fact that in those thirteen years the coldest month was February, I875 —mean temperature 10o. 7~-and the hottest month was July, 1875, with a mean temperature of 78.3I~; the extremes of cold and heat for the entire period coming within the same year. This vicinity has not been exempt from occasional heavy rain storms. It has been visited by a few floods or freshets. That of the river freshet of February, i838, is usually remarked upon by all old settlers as not only the earliest but the greatest. The ice broke suddenly and began to move at midday down the rapids, but gorged on the islands and solid ice at the foot, creating a jam, by which the waters were set back over all the lowlands of the town. On Huron street the river was from ten to twelve feet deep. The families of John Almy and Abel Page were in the houses of the fur trade station there, and were reached and taken out of the upper story windows in a boat paddled across through a rift in the floating ice from the side of Prospect Hill a little north of Lyon street. H. P. Bridge & Co. had a shanty boarding house between Canal street and the river, a little below Bridge street, which was swept away by the flood. A man in a sleigh with one or two women, CLIMATE-RAINFALL-STORMS. 173 drove a team to the old red warehouse, between Waterloo street and the river, near where the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad passes. They had scarcely entered the store when the water rose so that they were compelled to wade to the sleigh and drive off in a hurry. Measurements by L. H. Streng for fourteen years, show the average annual rainfall here to be 37.59 inches. The greatest monthly rainfall usually occurs in June, the average for that month in the fourteen years being 4.66 inches. From the record of his own observations in the seven years, 1870 to I876, inclusive, Mr. Streng prepared the table of aqueous precipitation given below: MIONTHS. 1870 1871 1872 1873 1 187 18 1876 January.-......... 3.36 5.34; 2.2; 13.53 4.7S l'ebrtuar.......... 1.44 | 0.8 1.5i 0.93 M arch........... 2.00 2. 92 4:..; April.............8 1.8 3.: '9.23 2 65 1.18 Slay............. 0.7 1.39:3. 4!) 4.14 2.02 1.68!2.64 3.66 1. i; 2.35 2. 64 1.;3, l.i97 2.,91 ' 4.1 1.38!.82 2.72 3 74 3.74 0. (; 4.>4 4.39: Junel.............;I. 13 3:; 77, 3.18 I ItII *............. A\u gust........... Septenbler........).55 2.04 3. 10 1.;8 1. 9i: 2.375:3.99 0.7; 10.(.0: 2.02;.44. 23: 1.74 0. 8( I 0.52 3.44 2.70 the junction of Canal and Pearl streets the water was twelve or fifteen feet deep. At its highest stage there was a clear way for boating from Division street at Island street to the bluffs beyond the west line of the city There was a freshet February I5-I9, i857, which subsided quickly, did not break up the ice, and did comparatively little damage. The most notable summer flood which has occurred, was that of the last week in July, I883, caused by a long and heavy rainstorm. This broke the boom above the rapids, and carried away many million feet of logs that were stored there, overturned the Detroit, Grand Haven and Milwaukee iron bridge, swept out the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad bridge, and damaged two or three others. That was the heaviest and most protracted summer rainstorm visiting this region within the memory of white men. This part of Michigan has been remarkably exempt from destructive hurricanes and wind storms. A cold and driving snow storm, accompanied by heavy thunder, occurred April 24, i853. May 15, of the same year, a strong gale of wind unroofed some buildings in town, and blew a grocery and dwelling near the west end of Bridge street bridge into the river. A rainstorm at that time unprecedented (or, rather, two of them), accompanied with vivid lightning and thunder, occurred on the evenings of September 17 and i8, i853. The rainfall at this time measured 4. inches, and considerable damage was done to dwellings and fences in the country about by the wind. A heavy rain during the first week in March, i868, melted off the snow, and in the following week raised the water and broke up the ice in the river, causing a flood of sufficient height to submerge the bank of the canal. September 9, 1872, rain fell to a depth of 2.3 inches between 2:30 and 4 o'clock in the afternoon. September 9, i875 (just three years later), rain fell to the depth of 3 inches within 24 hours. July Io, i88o, occurred a violent storm of rain, wind and hail, which did considerable damage to windows in the city, and to growing crops in the country about. It was short but severe. October i6, occurred a terrific autumnal storm-vmingled rain, hail and snow, with a high wind-lasting through the night. It was during this storm that the steamer Alpena was lost on Lake Michigan. )October......... 4.84 2. 7 1 (0.90 N ovember........ 2 2.10 2.1 203 3.77 I 1.72 5.1) 0.5) 7 1.; ' 2. 38 1.28 2.32 l)ecember...... 3.89) 2.50 I 1.80( 2.08 1. 02 2.72 1.81 '0A.:.... 1;. 7:-:34.52 135.001;.0:3:1:1. 8 0 S 35. 1i3 T AI...............O..2. 3. 8 3.. The average annual precipitation in the period from 1854 to I866 was 39.65 inches. The average for the years included in the table above was 33.64 inches. The average for the whole series in both these periods was 36.55 inches. These computations are from observations made by A. 0. Currier, L. H. Streng, E. A. Strong and E. S. Iolmes. River freshets in 1883 and I885 are described in another place. The second notable flood occurred in March, 1852. There had been a period of high water in thle latter part of March, 1849, submerging some of the lower parts of the city, but this one came several feet higher. As in I838, the ice in the river gorged, and blocked the stream across by the islands. At this time Canal street was flooded its entire length from Coldbrook down. At CHAPTER XVII. FIFTY-SIX WINTER SEASONS. THESE annals of the winter seasons.from 1833 to 1889 are compiled in part from memoranda kept by such careful observers as John Ball and W. L. Coffinberry, with some emendations and additions from other sources; and in part from earlier records of pioneer settlers on the one hand, and later published memoranda on the other. They are entertaining and instructive, and will be especially interesting to future readers of the history of the period which they cover. i833-34. Snow fell October 27. October 28 and 29, cold and blustering. Pleasant in November, with some rain. Plowing done that month. Winter rather mild, snow not deep, but river frozen over from January till the fifteenth of March, when the last crossing by teams was the drawing of the timber frame-work of a building from the west to the east side on sleds. Barney Burton did it, and charged $3 for the two days' work with team. It was the building afterward known as the "Yellow Warehouse." That day Harriet and Emily Guild went across on foot, and up to the Indian Creek mill. When they came back, water several inches in depth was flowing over the ice in the river, and they waded the stream. 1834-35. Also a mild and open winter; occasionally two or three inches of snow; some rain and wind, but mostly pleasant weather. Ice in the river not heavy. An early, pleasant spring. Some plowing done in every month of these two years. 1835-36. November ii to 17 severe storm, snow, wind, hail and rain; vessels lost on the lakes; cold till December 3; then warmer, with rain. Cold again until December 20, then alternate rain and snow till January. Open weather in January; warm, February 20, but ground covered with snow. An early spring, and rather pleasant. I836-37. Very mild; snow at no time deep; yet good sleighing for eight or ten weeks. I837-38. Froze up in December; so warm in January that men plowed in the fields and navigated the lakes. The river broke up above and the ice gorged on the rapids so as to throw the water down through Canal street, and over the low land on the West Side, coming again into the channel below the present city line. Weather became cold again, but winter broke up the last of February, and the whole of March was like summer. I838-39. Some snow from the 5th of November and for twenty days in December, and cold. Down to io degrees below zero on December 15. First half of January mild, some days from 40 degrees to 50 degrees above zero, carrying off the snow. Became warm again February 20; snow went off quickly and river broke up. i839-40. Cold, with snow, from early in December to the last of February, when snow went off and river opened. A number of times below zero-twice to io degrees and once to 12 degrees below. i840-4I. Good sleighing from the middle of December to the last of March, with deep snows all over the State, then snow went off with a rush, making high water in Grand River. I841-42. Heavy thunder storm November 20. Some sleighing in the last of December and part of January. River breaks up in the last of February. Mild all winter-some days up to 50 degrees. March from the first, springlike, "mild as May" the newspaper said; ground settled, and farmers putting in crops. I842-43. Ever since referred to as "the hard winter." Snow fell two feet deep November i8, and remained until about that date in April-five months. Some ten or twelve sailors who had been wrecked near Point Betsey, worked their way along the FIFTY-SIX WINTER SEASONS. 175 shore to Port Sheldon, and about the first of December came through the woods on foot to Grandville, piloted by Abram W. Pike, Charles WV. Hathaway, and an Indian guide. They had not proceeded far before they found the snow nearly up to their chins, and they progressed but slowly; camped in the forest two nights, and reached Grandville the third day. Their scant supply of food, and something to warm the inner man, did not last them half through. With wading in the snow, Mr. Pike's matches were spoiled, and when they camped the Indian came to the rescue, and with flint and steel and punk started a fire. "White man's match no good; Indian match all right," he said. Thaw in January three or four days, but did not carry off half the snow; then continued to snow much of the time till April. 'Thermometer marked 22 degrees below zero March 23; and ten degrees below April i, with snow four or five feet deep all over the country. April 9, Daniel Worth crossed the river above the rapids on the ice with a loaded team. April 10, William G. Mosely, with an ox team, drew a cord of wood on the ice in the river to the village from six miles below. Ice broke April i i. Snow went off gradually, with sunshine. Steamer Paragon started down the river April r8, but the river was not clear of ice till some days later. About the i9th Abram W. Pike traveled from Port Sheldon to Grandville on snow shoes, and in the woods found the snow still about four feet deep. 1843-44. Not snow enough for sleighing till February, and then only for two or three weeks, and the last of the month the river opened. Mild the whole winter, except a few days in January. Good wheeling much of the time: Heavy gale March I7, on Lake Michigan. i844-45. Very mild throughout, and no good sleighing. First part of January like spring, with no snow on the ground. But little ice in the river during the winter; still a late, backward spring. i845-46. Snow fell November 22. November 27, thermometer at zero; sleighing from that time to New Year's day, which was like spring; continued mild the rest of the winter, with good wheeling at times; open river; "sugar weather;" vessels sailing on the lakes. March I I river navigation began. I846-47. Weather mild; streams open and no sleighing till January 6; then sleighing till the 28th of March; frequent thaws, but deep snows; breaks up and spring comes at the end of March. i847-48. Cool from the last of November till December 28, with but little snow and good wheeling; then for some days like spring. First morning of the new year 58 degrees above zero. No ice on land or water, and but few days sleighing all winter. Some Indian-summer-like weather, and full spring comes in the the last of February. i848-49. Sleighing from the last of November; severe freeze at New Year's; January and February cold, sometimes below zero; spring comes the i2th of March with a general break-up. i849-50. Louis Campau was out with his cutter December io; weather mild till Christmas; on that day 6 degrees below zero; rest of the winter mild, being but few times colder than 20 degrees above zero; only a few days of good sleighing, but no real spring weather till April. 1850-51. Winter commenced with December, in which were some severe days, on the I3th at 5 degrees, and on the 24th and 3ist at 7 degrees below zero; then steady winter weather until the middle of March; with little good sleighing but much good wheeling. I851-52. December cold, with snow; 7 degrees below zero on December 26; January 7, 2 degrees; January I9, 5 degrees; January 20, 8 degrees; severe, stormy winter, broken by two or three thaws; final breakup March 12, but some sleighing till April 6. Big freshet in the spring. i852-53. Sleighing commenced December I7, but on the 7th and 8th of January the thermometer went up to 50 degrees, and the snow went off. Snow again January 17, winter-like weather, not very severe at any time, with some thaws to the middle of March. i853-54. Sleighing at Christmas, and continued through, the river not breaking up till the 24th of March, quite uniform winter weather; but one or two severe days; on January 28, down to I degrees below zero. I854-55. December cold, down to 4 degrees on the i9th; sleighing most of the month, but goes off at New Year's; ther 176 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. mometer at 40 degrees on January I; at 59 degrees on the 2d; at 63 degrees on the 3d; and 62 degrees on the 6th; spring-like till the 2ist, and people plowing; then deep snow and cold weather, the river not breaking up till April; down to zero four times in February, and at 2 degrees on the 22d of March., I855-56. Sleighing from Christmas, with severe cold weather most of the time till April i; then spring in earnest. Below zero eight or ten times; on February 3, 21 degrees below. I856-57. Still more severe. Deep snow fell December 2, and sleighing till February 6. January I5, io degrees below; ioth, 23 degrees below; 22d, 14 degrees below; 23d, 3 degrees below; 28th, 2 degrees below. February 6, rain, with thunder, river broke up, sleighing spoiled. Snow and a freeze followed. Broke up again, February 22, but still much cold weather. I857-58. November 25, down to 12 degrees below zero; alternate freezing and thawing till December 2I; then snow and sleighing; on January 12 the river opens, and temperature some days up from 40 to 55 degrees. February colder, with sleighing; on the 20th, 22d and 23d down to 6 degrees, 7 degrees and 8 degrees below; in the middle of March spring came, with buds and frogs. 1857-58. Stormy weather from November, till May, but mild, ranging usually from 20 to 40 degrees; no sleighing and little ice; heavy rains on April 27, and spring. I859-60. Good sleighing from December I8 to last of February, when the river broke up and snow went off. The only severe days were the last of December and Ist and 2d of January-5 degrees below zero. I860-6I. Sleighing from the first part of December to the last of March; but the only severe weather was on the 24th of December, 7 degrees below zero, and the 7th and 8th of February, 5 degrees below. I861-62. Deep snow November 23. December 3 was the coldest of the winter2 degrees below. Snow goes off, but comes again December 22, and lasts till near April. I862-63. Some snow the last of November, but no sleighing, and streams open all winter; mild, not often below 20 degrees; still a backward spring. I863-64. Winter mild till the remarka ble New Year's day of I864, when at Grand Rapids it was 8 degrees below zero, at Milwaukee 38 degrees below, and at Chicago, St. Louis and to the Ohio River from 20 degrees to 25 degrees below. Sleighing most of the time, though not much more severe weather till late in March. i864-65. Snow and some sleighing from November i5; from middle of December to some time in March, good sleighing, though not deep snow, and at no time below zero. I865-66. First part of winter snowy. Zero March 26, and sleighing. Thaw, and river at full banks the first week in April. 1866-67. A foot of snow December Io. Much snow and some rain through the winter, mostly cold; down to zero four or five times. Breaks up March I 0. 1867-68. Cold from November till Janulary, then deep snows till March 13, when it breaks up. Great extremes in February -ii degrees below on the 3d, 7 degrees below on the ioth, then on the i6th up to 50 degrees above. i868-69. Winter from November 17 to March 24. No time below zero here, but at Chicago 20 degrees, St. Louis i6 degrees. and at the east i8 degrees below zero. I869-70. Snow from the middle of November, and some sleighing. January and February mild, only two days cold, down to 6 degrees and io degrees, and never above 40; no spring till March 24. I870-7I. Very mild till December 21, then snow, but thaws on the Iith and i2th of January, temperature up to 50 degrees and 57 degrees; then snow again which stays till February 23, on which there comes a thunder storm and spring. I871-72. Snow fell November 21. Good sleighing from November 24 to the end of February. Temperature changeable, from 15 degrees below to 48 degrees above zero. Shifting, unsteady winds also. March cool and rainy toward the latter part. Ice went out early in April, and on the 9th navigation opened. A genial spring. I872-73. Snow November I4, and fair sleighing most of the time for a month, then a brief Indian summer. December 20 to 24 a "cold cycle," thermometer indicating at different times and places from I5 degrees to 38 degrees below zero. Heavy snow and drifts in the early part of January, and more on the 23d, interfering with railroad traffic. "Cold wave"-24 degrees FIFTY-SIX WINTER SEASONS. 177 below zero. Other severe freezes, February 22 and March 3. Favorable winter in the average for health and business. Cool till April. Snow deep in north part of the State April I3, river high. A slow spring..1873-74. December 3, a heavy wind did much damage in and about the city. Some light houses were blown down, and shade trees broken. An open winter at the beginning, with a full stage of water in the river. Warm January and February, with much mud and little sleighing, and with occasional sunny days. Stormy March, but moderate temperature. River navigation opened early. 1874-75. First snow November 25, very light. Moderately pleasant weather, with little snow, growing colder about New Year. Good sleighing in the middle of January, continuing through the month. Rain storm February 3, followed by snow and a "cold wave," with high winds and drifting, impeding railway trains, the temperature going down to 22 degrees below zero on the 7th, and to 36 degrees below on the 9th. Trains were snowbound for several days in the following week, and farm roads were drifted to the top of the fences in many places, while in some railroad cuts the snow-banks were from ten to fifteen feet deep. Streets in the city were much blocked. Deep snow and sleighing remained till late in March. It thawed and the ice went out early in April, and there was no serious freshet. From December I to March i there were 53 stormy days. I875-76. Fickle, changeable weather in November, but mild for the season till the end of I875. Sleighbells were heard once or twice in the middle of December. Rain January i, I876, muddy streets and no ice in the river. Continued warm through the month. Cool but not very cold in February. Very little sleighing this winterbest in March. Boat running on the river the first week in April. From December i to March i, were 44 stormy days. Lowest temperature, 2 degrees on the ist of February. I876-77. Six or eight inches of snow at the end of December. First "cold snap" December 9-10 degrees below zero. Zero December i6. A moderately mild and pleasant winter, with fine sleighing most of the time, and a not unpleasant March, 12 which ended with rainstorm. Alternately dusty and wet in April, with comfortable temperature. Slight snow on May Day. I877-78. Opened mild. Snow about three inches deep November 5, but no very good sleighing. Moderately cool. Ice in river not very thick. Some rain in January and February. Pronounced by Jefferson Morrison the mildest and pleasantest winter he had ever seen since I832-33-in thirtyfive years. A dash of snow March 27. April showers, and early navigation. Roads alternately muddy and dusty during the winter. I878-79. Slight snow-fall December i, and continued snowy, with fine sleighing after the i2th. During the month the aggregate depth of snow-fall was forty-two inches. More came in January. It was called the winter of deep snow; but was not very cold. A thaw in the latter part of January filled the street car tracks with mud and water. Moderately cold and pleasant February, with fair sleighing. Changeable in March, snow and rain alternating. Less flood than usual when the river opened. i879-8o. Rainy during first two weeks in December. Moderately pleasant and warm for the season during the rest of the month-a little sleighing. Rain and river flood early in January-low grounds overflowed on the 5th. The boom gave way, and a large quantity of pine logs went down the river. A broken winter; not much sleighing; coldest weather early in March, and that several degrees above zero. No very high water in the spring. i88o-8I. Sleighbells were out November i6, and sleighing continued good for about four weeks. River iced over below the rapids November 27. Second half of December mixed-sleighing and wheeling. A not unpleasant winter, but io6 days of snow. A remarkable change of temperature was a fall of 52 degrees from 30 degrees on January 13, to 22 degrees below zero the next morning. Scarcely less sudden and remarkable was a rise, February 5, from 23 degrees below zero in the morning to 22 degrees above zero at noon. Rain February 9. Snow February ii. A long, moderately cold winter. Ice in the river remained till the third week in March. i881-82. Slight snow storm November 23; after that alternate rain and snow till January, with not much good sleighing, and 178 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. no extreme cold. A cheerful January, with rain in the closing week. Balmy February. Ice thin on the river. An open winter, and a mild one. I882-83. November I3, first snow of the season. More on the 25th; cutters in the streets next day. Fine sledding in December. Ten degrees below zero on the i8th. Keen, frosty January. Heavy storm, snow and wind, began January 20, and lasted several days. Drifted heavily, blocking railroads and delaying trains. Minimum temperature I9 degrees below zero. Heavy rain in the middle of February-two and one-tenth inches in twenty-four hours. A late spring. i883-84. Snow November II; November i6, a foot deep. Comfortably cool, keen and bracing weather during the next three months; i8 degrees below zero January 5; also January 24. Chilly and windy in March. Logs were running down the river early in April. i884-85. A steady winter with plenty of cold weather. December I9, I3 degrees below, and I8 degrees below on the 26th. Sudden thaw and high water at the New Year. Heavy, blinding snow storm and high wind February 8, lasting several days, and followed by severe cold. It prevailed throughout Western Michigan, and drifted railroad trains under badly. March 17, 20 and 21 were severely cold-from 5 degrees to 30 degrees below zero. It was a long, severe winter, but old pioneers still "point with pride" to that of i842-43, forty-two years earlier. In a communication to the Ann Arbor Courier, Lorenzo Davis, of that county, speaking of those two winters, characterized that of I842-43 as the longest, and that of I884-85 as the coldest "ever experienced in Michigan by white people." i885-86. A cold snap the first week in December, and first snow about that time. Good sleighing and fine weather until about December 24. January 2, snow scarce. January 7 river filled with floating slush ice-a "mild cold snap" which began to moderate January ii. January i8, more snow; sleighing continues good, and snow abundant throughout the remainder of the month. February 2 to February 5 a severe blizzard-mercury from 15 degrees to 25 degrees below zero. March I, io degrees above zero. March 6, ice in river rotting rapidly. I886-87. First snow November 25. Sleighing for about a week. Fine weather and skating during December, with excellent sleighing December 27. A cold snap January 2. January 7, mercury reached zero. Pleasant weather, and plenty of snow till near the end of the month. January 2i and 22, rain and thaw, and fear of freshet. January 25, river road below city overflowed. Still good coasting on Fountain street. January 27, river filled with ice, and water risen five inches since thaw. January 28, rain. February i, good sleighing, and three or four more inches of snow fall. February 7, heavy rains and high water, overflowing low lands. Changeable weather, and winter holds out until the second week in April. This winter was, on the whole, not an uncomfortable one, there having been no severely cold snaps, and was not followed by any high water disasters, or ice jams. I887-88. A slight flurry of snow November 28-cold. Weather the first half of December a mixture of pleasant, wet, wintry, raw and chilly. December 22, good winter weather and fair sleighing on paved streets. Sleighing more or less good until toward the last of February. Ice cutting on the river commenced January 8. This was a winter of almost uniformly pleasant weather, and notable for one thing, namely-according to the newspapers there were three "coldest nights of the season"-January io and 22, and February 8. They neglect, however, to state the degree of temperature of any save the first, when the mercury was "pretty close to zero." i888-89. A remarkably mild winter, with comparatively little snow or rain. No high flood in the river. Through the season, and the spring and summer following, the lightness of the rainfall and the low stage of the river flowage, in the average, was unprecedented within the memory of oldest residents. CHAPTER XVIII. THE POLICE DEPARTMENT. PREJVIOUS to i856 there were no regular patrolmen or watchmen in the city. The only street lighting was by lanterns, with candles or oil lamps, in front of the hotels, and these were usually extinguished at the hour for retiring. Otherwise the darkness of nature prevailed during the night time. The initial steps toward policing the town as a protective measure were taken about that time by the principal merchants, clubbing together and hiring a night watchman at their own expense. Henry Baker was the first watchman, and performed the duty as faithfully and efficiently as one man could for several years. His beat was between Lyon and Ottawa streets, on Canal and Monroe. In those nights of darkness a keen eye and a quick ear were the valuable requisites for an efficient patrolman, and Baker's acuteness has seldom been excelled, even with the aid of gas and electric lights. Under the revised charter of I857, the Common Council had the power to appoint a police constable and one watchman for each ward. The police constables were endowed with similar functions to those of ordinary town constables, with certain limitations, and the watchmen also had power to make arrests in certain cases. Comparatively few of these officers were appointed previous to 1871. In some cases watchmen were appointed upon request and at the expense of private parties in the xicinities where they were to serve. A regular organization of the police force in this city was effected in June, I87I, with one chief and eight patrolmen. By act of May 24, i88I, establishing the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners, the powers and duties connected with the government and discipline of the police, and also the power of appointment of men to that service, were transferred from the Common Council to the Board, and since then the full power of control and regulation of that Department has been in the hands of that Board. It is their duty to appoint on the first Monday in May of each year, by ballot or otherwise, a Chief of Police, and so many police constables and watchmen as they may deem necessary, not exceeding the number prescribed by the charter, and they may also appoint special constables at their discretion in cases of emergency or apprehended danger. Of late the title of Chief of Police has been in practice superseded by the designation Superintendent of Police. Chiefs of the Department have been: James L. Moran, i871-78; Isaac Sigler, I879; James L. Moran, i88o; Horace W. Davis, i88i; Van Epps Young, 1882; John Perry; I883-86; Israel C. Smith, i887-89; William H. Eastman, I889. Prior to i882, for near a dozen years, the police headquarters were at the corner of Monroe and Ionia streets; in June of that year they were removed to their present station at the corner of Lyon and Campau streets. June I9, I885, the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners contracted with the Police Telephone and Signal Company for twenty signal stations and the necessary apparatus to operate a central office, in two circuits, for the sum of $3,200. These were provided and put in use a few months later. As now constituted the Police Department numbers seventy-one officers, men and employes, as follows: One superintendent, two sergeants, two detectives, two court officers, one truant officer, fifty-one patrolmen, two patrol-wagon men, three drivers, two clerks, three operators, one janitor and one matron. There are twenty-seven beats in the city, nine of which are constantly patrolled. The remaining eighteen beats are patrolled from four o'clock p. M. until four o'clock A. M. The patrolmen are divided into three squads, or watches. The day watch patrol from eight A. M. until four 180 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. P. M.; the dog watch from four to eight P. iM. and from four to eight A. M.; and the night watch from eight P. M. to four A. M. In connection with the beats is the patrol box system, one of the finest features of the department. There are thirty-six of these boxes, twenty-eight of which have telephones, all connected with police headquarters. Twenty-five miles of wire are used in the system. Each patrolman reports to headquarters at each end of his beat, and the exact time is there recorded by an operator. These reports are carefully saved and bound so that in after years a person can tell, by referring to the records, where an officer was at a certain hour on a given date. In connection with the system is a two-horse wagon, with a man constantly in charge. The wagon attends all alarms from the patrol boxes and many calls by private telephone. It also attends all fires, in order to give necessary police protection. The officers are all well-drilled in the use of revolver and club, and are required to spend a portion of their time daily in practice. The entire force is as well drilled as most military companies in the State. From May i, i886, to May i, i887, there were 1,472 arrests made by the officers. Of the number, 1,393 were males and seventy were females, and only nine of the number could neither read nor write. MEMBERS OF THE POLICE FORCE. Following is the list of members of the police force, other than Superintendents, since the organization of the Board, up to i 888, with the year of the appointment of each: Grimson, Theo. L..1881 Groff, Hubert......1872 Guild, William.....1887 Healey, Bryant.... 1883 Hemstreet, Alfred.. 1887 Hennessey, James.. 1881 Hinzleman, Adolph. 1888 Hirnburger, John.. 1882 Howe, Cornelius... 188() Howell, James..... 1883 Howell, Thomas... 1885 Hurley, Wm. J.... 1881 Hyland, Patrick W. 1886 Jakeway, Sherm'n G. 1887 Johnson, Jacob C....1885 Johnson, John..... 1879 Johnson, John B...1880 Johnson, S. A...... 1885 Kearney, Patrick... 1880 Klyn, John C...... 1881 Latham, Jackson E. 1887 Leatherman, C..... 1883 Lecompte, Joseph.. 1881 Lucia, Jefferson.... 1886 Lynch, Michael....1887 McCarthy, John F..1887 McCarthy, Thomas. 1887 McCaul, Frank..... 1885 McCulloch, Sam'l..1886 McDorman, Geo. W.1885 McHugh, James....1883 McKay, James..... 1882 McLean, Thomas.. 1871 Madden, John..... 1882 Madden, Timothy.. 1881 Madigan, Timothy. 1885 Maher, Thomas.... 1881 Manly, J. L........1883 Millalley, D....... 1884 Miller, George.....1881 Mooney, James.... 1885 Moran, Charles L..1885 Murphy, Michael..1873 Nash, Mort........ 1885 O'Neil, Charles C..1885 O'Neil, Patrick.... 1881 Partington, W. I... 1882 Pelton, E. L....... 1881 Pimpert, Frederick. 1885 Platte, A..........1883 Post, Charles......1882 Price, Thomas C....1882' Purple, Thomas.... 187'2 Quigg, John....... 1880 Raynor, Aldelbert D.1885 Robbins, Thomas.. 1883 Robie, John F..... 1882 Rowland, Dwight P. 1885 Rubedew, James...188:3 Ryan, Thomas.....1883 Saunders, C. H....1.87.1 Sauter, Gotlieb.....1880 Schobey, John.....1881 Scoby, John M....1882 Scoby, H. V........1883 Scott, John........1882 Sears, C. H........1883 Seeley, Charles A.. 1886 Shields, Patrick.... 1887 Slattery, Thomas J. 1887 Sliter, Emmery J... 1887 Smith, Emmett.... 1886 Smith, Joseph U... 1885 Smith, L. 0....... 1883 Traxler, George W. 1881 Tubbs, George W...1887 Van Dine, N. J.... 1887 Viergiver, Daniel... 1881 Wade, Charles..... 1881 Walsh, Wm. P.... 1881 Ware, Howard R... 1885 Warren, Robert.... 1885 Washburn, Wm. E..1881 Webb, Ralph S.....1887 Webber, Fred W... 1885 Wells, George..... 1883 Whalen, Wm......1871 Wheeler, George W. 1887 Wiersma, C. D..... 1882 W illey, E. F....... 1883 Willey, F. W...... 1883 Williams, Delano S. 1887 Worden, George... 1888 Ansley, Daniel..... 1879 Beattie, Charles H. 1881 Behan, Dennis..... 1883 Bement, Harley.... 1887 Billings, Albert F.. 1887 Bonnell, Leslie.... 1881 Breese, S. A.......1883 Britt, William..... 1885 Brown, George F....1888 Brownell, S. R.....1882 Bush, Wm. S......1881 Catlin, F. W....... 1882 Catlin, Mrs. F. W. (Matron)........1885 Chaffee, Charles H. 1886 Coggswell, D. F... 1884 Cook, L. D........1884 Conlon, John...... 1886 Connelly, John..... 1883 Connolly, James... 1872 Connolly, John.....1879 Connor, C. 0...... 1882 Cowell, David...... 1873 Curry, Alexander...1887 Cutler, W. P...... 1883 Davison, Edward... 1885 De Bruyne, Marius. 1881 Denison, James R...1887 Doherty, Patrick... 1883 Duga, William..... 1887 Engle, Thomas E... 1887 Ennis, Alex........ 1882 Erb, Oliver........ 1881 Fee, F. B..........1883 Fisher, Van E..... 1886 French, Elbert E..1886 Fritz, Nelson...... 1882 Gardner, John M.. 1882 Gast, Cornelius.... 1872 Gates, Charles H....1886 Gault, C. A........1883 Gill, M. P......... 1883 Gould, Emmett.... 1887 Gould, Mrs. F...... 1887 Gitchell, Harry.... 1885 Graves, Wm. H.... 1884 RELIEF AND BENEFIT ASSOCIATION. In connection with this department, is the Grand Rapids Police Relief and Benefit Association, formed for the purpose of assisting distressed members. The officers as given by the first annual report, May I3, I887, were: President, Patrick Doherty; Vice-President, Edward L. Pelton; Treasurer, George W. Traxler; Secretary, John B. Johnson. Board of Trustees-Maurice P. Gill, John Quigg, George H. Wells, Thomas Maher, Timothy Madigan. The society has prospered, having in i888 fiftynine members, and a fair amount of funds in the treasury. The present officers are: President, Patrick Doherty; Vice-President, Edward L. Pelton; Treasurer, John B. Johnson; Secretary, Wm. J. Hurley. CHAPTER XIX. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. THERE was no regularly organized force for extinguishing fires in Grand Rapids until about I848. The citizens of the village had not been awakened to the necessity of a fire department organization. The place had until then been visited by very few fires, and those in detached and not very valuable buildings. Not until i846 was there even a small hand engine of the tub pattern in the village. In that year a little hand engine of home manufacture, made by William Peaslee, was tried, with eight or ten men at the brakes, on Monroe street, and threw a stream of water over Irving Hall, a threestory brick building. It was thought very good for a beginning. The village bought one and contracted for an engine house to cost $60. Three fire companies were partly organized as early as I844, or at least an effort was made to organize them, under the names of Bucket Company and Hook and Ladder Companies, Nos. I and 2. They were but temporary makeshifts. Their stock of buckets and hooks and ladders did not amount to a very large equipment. When a blaze occurred the implements were generally used by the men nearest at hand and aroused by the cry of fire. This sort of volunteer service was about the only reliance at fires until i849. In the fall of i849, Alert Fire Company, No. i, was organized, with the following members: Charles H. Taylor, Solomon 0. Kingsbury, Wright L. Coffinberry, John Clancy, William D. Roberts, Daniel McConnell, Frank N. Godfroy, William H. Almy, Thomas W. Parry, Wilder D. Foster, Ira S. Hatch, Benjamin Haxton, George H. White, William Clancy, Harvey K. Rose, James W. Sligh, T. S. Rock, Justin M. Stanly, William N. Cook, George C. Fitch, John C. Buchanan, Charles Trompe, William B. Renwick, M. Sparlen, 'Robert Wheeler, Samuel F. Perkins, Robert M. Collins, Jacob Barns, and C. W. McKenzie. Charles H. Taylor was Foreman of the company. The same season was organized Protection Fire Company, No. 2, with Dudley Handley as Foreman; Darwin B. Lyon and Daniel Devendorf, Assistants; S. Y. Sterling, Secretary. Members: James N. Davis, Eugene E. Winsor, Alfred A. Tracy, Gray Martindale, T. H. Penney, Ed. Lyon, John H. Withey, John H. Slack, Charles McConnell, J. A. Smith, James F. Sargeant, Thomas Sargeant, James Lochlin, and Charles F. Moore. Hook and Ladder, No. i, Foreman, C. B. White, was organized January 15, i850. The Assistant Foreman was David Burnett. Members: William I. Blakely, Robert Hilton, William H. Dickinson, Pliny Smith, Benjamin Luce, G. Byron Morton, Harry H. Ives, Aldridge W. Pelton, Godfrey Gill and Isaac H. Nichols. A hand engine, brought from Rocheste1 at a cost of $675, with some voluntary subscriptions added, was tried and approved December 17, I849, whereupon the Enquirer in its next issue remarked: "The new fire engihe has arrived, been tried, approved, and lodged in the school house on Prospect Hill, where may it long stay in undisturbed rest. The village now has two engines; one to throw water a considerable distance, another a less distance; like the wise man who had two holes in the door, one for the big cat and another for the kitten." The first work of this engine, in charge of Alert Company, No. i, was at a fire, January 2, i850, in the residence part of the store of Ransom C. Luce. The fire was stayed without much damage, and the newspaper that day said: "What it did this morning has more than paid twice the cost of the machine." It was said of this machine that it would throw five barrels of water a minute over the highest buildings on Mon s18., HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. roe street, a very fair performance for an engine worked entirely by hand. February 25, I850, Wolverine Fire Company, No. 3, was organized. This was a West Side Company, a reorganization of the partly formed "Cataract, No. 3." Among its original members were: Henry G. Stone, Joseph Penney, Jr., Leonard Covell, Silas Hall, Wilson Jones, William A. Hyde, Baker Borden, William K. Wheeler, and Loren M. Page. Foreman, Silas Hall; Assistants, Wilson Jones and Baker Borden. Secretary, Joseph Penney, Jr. In July, William A. Hyde was chosen Secretary, after him in succession, E. P. Camp and Elias Hall. Wilson Jones was chosen Foreman in August, i850, and was succeeded in I853 by Silas Hall, and he in turn by James D. Robinson, in I854. In I857 Elisha 0. Stevens was Foreman. In i850, under the old organization, Ira S. Hatch was Chief Engineer, with Wilson Jones as Assistant, of the Fire Department; also, in I852, with William K. Wheeler, Assistant. Mr. Hatch held this position several terms prior to the reorganization in i859. In I854 Charles H. Taylorwas Chief and Byron D. Ball was Assistant. The Wolverine Company was maintained with enthusiasm, and was very efficient in service under the old regime. In the report of proceedings of the Common Council, September I5, i853, appears this item, among accounts audited: " G. W. Thayer, for rent of one-half engine house in Kent, $13; C. H. Carroll, do. t'other half, $I3. " On the first of January, i854, the entire force of the Department consisted of seventy-three active members in the three companies. They had in all but 250 feet of hose. The Chief suggested the procuring of fifty or seventy-five leather buckets; but his advice was not followed. A hose company called the Young America No. i, was organized in February, i859. Foreman, Adrian Yates; Assistant, O. C. Bush; Secretary, A. H. Fowle; Treasurer, G. Collier. It was not kept up very long, but, "the boys" while together showed much gallantry and spirit. Under the revised city charter of I857, by an ordinance passed July 30, i859, the Fire Department was reorganized, and this was the foundation upon which the present efficient and excellent service was built. The ordinance prescribed the duties of the officers and men, also the mannier of electing officers by the Department and by the companies. It further made provision for annual reviews, also for the storage and care of the fire apparatus, and instituted regulations concerning the official insignia and caps and badges of the firemen. Minute details of the Fire Department reorganization in all its divisions and changes need not be here given. The earlier and initial movements are those which are of the greater interest. Under the present charter provisions, the control and manipulation of the Fire Department are in the hands of the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners, which has the keeping and custody of all engine-houses, engines and other property pertaining to the service. It is invested with the care and control of the Fire Depariment, and with power to reorganize and maintain it, and prescribe all rules and regulations for its government. The Commissioners are required to appoint "one Chief Engineer, as many Assistant Engineers as may be deemed necessary, and Fire Wardens not to exceed one in each ward." They are also empowered to appoint firemen, hook and ladder men, and other members of the service, the appointees holding their places during the pleasure of the Board. The title of Chief Engineer was changed in I883 to that of Fire Marshal, through a form of language by which the Board appoint a Chief Engineer "to be known and designated as Fire Marshal," the statute remaining as before. THE OLD HAND ENGINE. Probably not one-half the city people of the present day know what kind of a machine the hand fire engine was. For the benefit of their children and children's children, thousands of whom will no doubt read this book, it may be well to give a description of it, though necessarily brief and imperfect. The first fire engine used in Grand Rapids, popularly called "the tub," was built by William Peaselee in I846. It was a box about five or six feet long, two and a half feet wide and about fifteen inches deep, and set upon four wheels perhaps thirty inches in diameter. In the bottom of the box was a force pump, with no suction attachment leading outside. It was fed by water brought and poured into it by the "bucket brigade." On either side, attached to the THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. 183 pump handles was a brake of sufficient length for four men to work. From the pump was a short line of hose and a nozzle attached. In case of fire this little machine 11 0.6. i-. a THE OLD HAND ENGINE. was hastily dragged to the spot by men with ropes. These were volunteers, there being then no organized force for the extinguishment of fires. "Man the brakes!" would be the order. Men would take their posts, and simultaneously the men with buckets would bring water from the nearest supply and pour it into the tub; then the work would begin, usually in the presence of many spectators gathered about "to see the thing squirt." Small as it was it did good service at numerous fires. Next came a larger machine by the same builder, provided with double force pump and suction hose; also arranged to throw two streams at once. Sixteen men could work at this, but the suction was not strong enough to bring water from much distance below and at the same time do good execution. In i849 a still better machine was procured from Rochester, as already stated, and about 1855 two more, and heavier ones, were purchased. Until I865 these hand engines of the box pattern were the only ones at command for fighting fire. Being well manned by the organized companies already spoken of, they performed good service for those days. They were always drawn by men instead of horses. STEAM FIRE ENGINES. The first use of steam in working fire engines was made in London in I830. In I841 a heavy and cumbrous steam fire engine was put to use in New York City. The first really practical steam machine was built in Cincinnati in I853. This also was very heavy, weighing upward of twelve tons. It was not until six or seven years later that these steam fire engines were so improved as to begin to come into general use in cities. Detroit procured one in i86o. It is a fact which at the present day seems singular that in February, i865, twenty-two prominent citizens and business men sent to the Common Council 'D a formal protest against taxing the city to procure a steam fire engine. The first one in Grand Rapids arrived March 19, i865. j/ Its cost, exclusive of freight charges, was $5,600. It was called the David Caswell, in honor of a former Chief Engineer. Thomas Gibbons and George R. Pierce were its engineers. This engine had public test trials March 22, 1865, on Bridge and Monroe streets, with sixty pounds pressure, and gave great satisfaction in its performance. It was placed in Engine House No. 2, which was then that at the corner of Kent street and Crescent avenue. Its first arduous service appears to have been at the burning out of a chimney, April 7, when it went up to Lagrave street and back. The second steam fire engine was purchased at Seneca Falls, N. Y., in the spring of I868, and was of the same class with the first one. (The maker of both was H. C. Silsby, of Seneca Falls.) This was named Louis Campau. It was tested May 29, in Monroe street, and with suction from a reservoir at the corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets, threw a stream nearly eighty feet high at Division street. These two were made to suffice for several years. Another and larger one was purchased in i872. It was called the Valley City. In I873 two chemical fire extinguishers were purchased and added to the apparatus of the Department. In i875 the electric bell fire alarm system was established. For this use, in i878, a large bell was procured and hung temporarily in a wooden tower erected for the purpose near the corner of Pearl and Ottawa streets. The bell was removed to the City Hall upon the completion of that building. Another bell for this use is at Engine House No. 3, corner of Front and Second streets. Each engine House is also provided with a gong which sounds the alarm simultaneously with these bells. 'rHE PRESENT STATUS. The Fire Department property in i888 184 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. included eight engine houses and lots, four steamers, two chemical engines, eight hose carts and wagons, two hook and ladder trucks, thirty-seven horses, i6,750 feet of hose, fifty-nine alarm boxes, fifty-one miles of telegraph wire, eleven gongs, eleven call bells, two large and four smaller bells, and one repeater and attachment, which, with the miscellaneous property of the Department, were estimated to be worth about $130,ooo. The Grand Rapids Fire Department is undoubtedly second to none in the country, as now constituted, in the excellence of its system, the thoroughness of its discipline, and in its spirit and efficiency. It is one of the institutions of which the city may justly be proud; expensive perhaps, but worth season. Isaac Leonard was the contractor. That was Engine House No. i. The second engine house provided by the city, was on a lot now comprising the north end of the site of the present much enlarged building at the corner of Kent street and Crescent avenue. The next one was on a lot purchased in I859 a little north of Bridge street on Scribner street. The earlier brick engine houses were considered good for their day, but have been superseded by much finer structures. The engine houses in I888, the property of the city, are: No. i. Built in X868 at 49 Lagrave street. A four wheeled hose carriage and a chemical engine are stationed there. Captains-Richard Roberts, John Smith. Lieutenant-Isaac Sonke.,vI)D CASWEL. --- 1865. No. 2. At 220 Barclay street, built in I879. Has a rotary Silsby engine, and a hose carriage. Captain-J. Anthon Brown. Lieutenant-Fred N. Jennings. No. 3. Corner Front and Second streets. A chemical engine, a hook and ladder truck, and a Button fire engine are kept there. Capacity of engine —i, I00 gallons per minute. Captains - William Scott, Frank Lemon, Charles Berger. LieutenantsGeorge Rowley, Charles Spencer. No. 4. Corner Kent street and Crescent avenue; a fine house, rebuilt in I876. Equipment-four wheeled hose carriage and hook and ladder truck, with 300 feet of ladders. Captains-David Walker, Archie McDougal. Lieutenant-William Tuffts. vastly more than it costs, in its saving of life and property imperiled by fire. THE ENGINE HOUSES. Prior to i855 no engine house was owned by the corporation. The village at first rented the Prospect Hill school house for storing the engine, and after that the city rented quarters for fire apparatus in the rear basement of a wood building where the Luce block is, also a place by the livery stable at the corner of Fountain and Ionia streets, and some other places. In the fall of i854 a lot was purchased on the west corner at the junction of Monroe and Spring streets, and a brick engine house, the first of the sort, was built there the following ENGINE HOUSE NO. 4, CORNER OF CRESCENT AVENUE AND KENT STREET. 18f6 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. No. 5. Corner Canal and Leonard stree Button engine, with capacity to throw, gallons per minute; four wheeled hose c riage. House built in I879. Captair Truman Smith. Lieutenant-Theodore Bellaire. No. 6. Junction of Grandville and El worth avenues. Erected in I877. H( cart, four wheeled, built by Charles Belknap. Captain-Luke Kerwin. Li( tenant-Thomas McMullen. No. 7. Established at 348 Scribner str4 -not fully equipped. No. 8. Corner Jefferson and Veto stree Built in I883. First-class Silsby engil with capacity of 6,ooo gallons per minu Four wheeled hose carriage, rebuilt by t Leitelt Brothers. Captain-W. B. Fi patrick. Lieutenant —Edward Porter. HEADS OF THE DEPARTMENT. The following is a list of Heads of t Fire Department since its reorganization 1859: TERM. 1860 1861 1862 1863 1864 1865 1866 1867 1868 1869-70 1871 1872 1873-75 1876-79 1880 1881-90 CHIEF ENGINEER. FIRST ASSISTANT. Benj. B. Church........... James Cavanaugh..... David Caswell............. George H. White...... Abram A. Lawyer.......... William E. Grove.... Philip H. Edge............ George R. Pierce...... George R. Pierce.......... Benj. A. Harlan........ Josiah M. Cook............ Charles Hilton......... ats. Addison, Wm...... t1882 700 Adrien, Homer..... 1884 700* Baker, Eddie......1882 ar- Beamer, Frederick. 1888 1- Beebe, Charles W.. 1886 E. Beekman, Henry...1884 Belknap, T. R......1870 Bellair, T. E...... 1881 s- Berger, Charles.... 1880 ose Bird, George...... 1882 E. Bissonette, Joseph.. 1884 el- Blake, John Jr......1880 Bliss, Frank....... 1888 Branch, John...... 1886 eet Brown, J. Anthon.. 1880 Brown, Frank..... 1883 ts Bullis, Avery...... 1885 Butler, Thomas.... 1881 ne, Byrne, James......187;6 te. Callahan, A. E..... 1881 the Chase, John W..... 1881 tz- Chism, Chisholm...1882 Clark, Fred W......1887 Collins, James.....1882 Collins, Philip.....1.880 Collins, W....... 1881 the Conner, John H....1881 in Cooney, Charles... 1883 Crissey, A. S...... 1881 Cummings, Julius..1886 - Cunningham, W. J.1880 DeCells, Eugene... 1883 Denny, Christopher. 1887 - DeWolf, A....... 1881.... Dickerson, Charles. 1887 Donahue, Thomas..1880 Downs, J. W...... 1881.... Eddy, James....... 1886 Emmer, A. J....... 1880.... Emmerson, Thos... 1884.... Emmons, John.....1881 Emmons, Oscar.... 1878 Engel, John V......1880) Farwell, Peter..... 1886 Faulkner, James... 1887.... Fitzpatrick, Wm... 1.880... Fortier, J. B....... 1880 Foster, James......1882 From, Oliver...... 1871.... Fryant, Dwight.... 1888 Fulkson, Wm......1882... Garnet, James.....1881... Gibbons, Thomas...1854 Goodrich, John.... 1887 '" Gorham, Edwin.... 1886... Groskopf, August.. 1885 Guild, Elliott......1.882 '" Hall, E. F.........1873 Hamlin, M J...... 1881 V. Hammer, John.... 1885 I. Harris, W. H...... 1883 Hartson, Louis..... 1881 Hathaway, James.. 1882 Hawk, W. T....... 1884 Hazeltine, Bert.... 886 ed Hembling, S........1881 of Higgins, Patrick... 1882 Hilton, Edward.... 1882 of Horton, T. P......1880 Howard, Charles... 1884 Howell, Edward... 1873 Howell, Ed. Jr....1884 Howell, James..... 1873 Hubbard, Floyd... 1886 Hum, Andrew B... 1882 Hydorn, George... 1885 Inman, Wm.......1.888 Jackman, W. J.....1884 Jenkins, John H. Jr..1887 Jennings, Fred N...1881 Johns, George F... 1887 Johnson, George... 1.888 Kean, Frank.......1880 Keeler, Wm.......1888 Kelley, John....... 1882 Kennedy, John.....1885 Kerwin, John......1884 Kerwin, Luke.......1880 Kerwin, Mike......1880 Kirkwood, Thos. B. 1880) Kitts, Charles H.... 1880 Kyle, Oliver.......1883 Lamore, Charles... 1884 Lamore, Dan......1884 Leach, Albert......1882 Lemon, Frank..... 1882 Lewis, George C... 1882 Lyons, W.......... 1882 McCall, Frank......1882 McCall, George.... 1883 McDermott, Wm... 1888 McDonald, George. 1881 McDougal, Archie.. 1886 McGarry, Andrew.. 1882 McGuire, Michael..1884 McMullen, Thos... 1881 Maher, Michael,...1887 Marks, John.......1882 Marvin, H. B......1877 Mason, John.......1887 Matthews, Judson.. 1886 Medbury, Samuel.. 188l6 Miller, Alex.......1881 Miller, Joseph.....1878 Mitchell, George F. 1876 Montgomery, Jas... 1884 Morgan, Hugh J... 1881 Murphy, Michael..1887 Neal, Albert....... 1887 Nerenhouse, John.. 1883 Newhouse, John.... 1883 Ormond, WVm. J.. 1878 Osgood, Wm. L... 1874 Osgood, W. S......1884 Parker, George.... 187.5 Patterson, Thomas. 1882 Petrie, Arthur......1888 Pierce, M. 0O......1883 Porter, Edward.....1887 Porter, Frank.....1881 Prindle, Seth......188" Putnam, R. K......1872 Quinn, John.......1880 Reed, Wm.........1883 Reetsburg, Isaac... 1884 Renahan, John..... 1884 Richmond, A. J.... 1875 Roberts, E. A.... 1874 Roberts, George L.. 1878 Roberts, Richard... 1880 Josian M. LooK............I. llott Judd............ William A. Hyde.......... James Paul............. William A. Hyde.......... William A. Hyde.......... Benj. F. Porter......... John Gezon............ W illiam A. Hyde.......... Isaiah Peak............ William A. Hyde.......... Elisha 0. Stevens....... Michael Shields........... Anthony Hydorn....... Israel C. Smith............ Charles E. Belknap.... *David L. Stiven.......... Charles R. Swain....... Henry Lemoin............. *Jantuary to September. Solon W. Baxter........ Superintendents of Alarms —Preston Merrifield, I875-80; John W. Chase, i88 Henry C. Bettinghouse, I882-89. THE GALI.ANT FIREMEN. The following is an alphabetically arrang{ list of the firemen, from the organization the Board till April 30, I888, with dates appointment: - THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. 187 Rowley, George....1884 Sain, Clinton......1883 Schneider, E. L.... 1885 Scott, Wm........1887 Sergeant, Fred....1887 Seymour, Glen C.. 1882 Shriver, Fred Jr... 1881 Smith, Alden...... 1882 Smith, Alf.........1882 Smith, John Jr.....1880 Smith, Truman.... 1878 Smith, Walter..... 1882 Snyder, Henry.... 1882 Somers, William... 1884 Sonke, Garret...... 1887 Sonke, Isaac.......1885 Spencer, Charles...1881 Spoelstra, George..1888 Steiman, John......1885 Stevenson, Wm.... 1887 Stewart, Wm...... 1887 Stover, E..........1881 Swan, W. A........1882 Swartz, John...... 1882 Sweet, Iremus W... 1882 Taylor, James B... 1885 Taylor, Thomas.... 1885 Thomas, C......... 1882 Tracy, Frank...... 188 Tryman, Robert.... 1880 Tucker, Harry..... 1876 Tuffts, Wm........1882 VanSteinberg...... 1881 Wade, Mathew..... 1874 Walker, David..... 1881 Watterson, J K....1881 Williams, Wm. H..1883 Winegar, Andrew..1887 Wise, Wm......... 1880 Witters, Gilbert....1881 Worful, Charles.... 1885 Wykes, Newton.... 1880 Young, Wm. F.....1885 FIREMEN'S FUND ASSOCIATION. The members of the Fire Department have an organization styled the Grand Rapids Firemen's Association, the object of which is the care and relief of such of their number as may be disabled through sickness or otherwise. It was incorporated under the law of the State relating to charitable societies, July 5, I877. It has been a successful institution, and has in its treasury a fund of upward of $4,500. Its fund is kept up by the payment of initiation fees of $3 each, supplemented by quarterly dues of $i from each member. The disbursements are made through a board of trustees, in such sums and under such conditions as are provided for in the by-laws. They include, also, the burial expenses of deceased members within a given amount, and discretionary relief to families of deceased members. The first officers were: President, Warren C. Weatherly; Vice-President, W. W. Skinner; Secretary and Treasurer, F. W. Luce. The present officers are: President, Thos. Taylor; Vice- President, William Tuffts; Secretary and Treasurer, Solon W. Baxter. Trustees: John Connors, James Faulkner, Fred N. Jennings, William Scott, George Rowley, Frank Lemon, Charles L. Howe, David Walker, Robert Smith, Michael Fitzpatrick, Charles N. Beebe. HENRY LEMOIN, Fire Marshal of the city of Grand Rapids, was born January 28, i844, in the township of Stow, Summit county, Ohio, and was the youngest of eleven children, who were left fatherless and penniless when he was but a year old. His educational advantages were those of the common district schools. Dependent from the first, mainly, upon his own exertions, to aid in the care and support of the family as well as himself, he worked on a farm from the age of twelve until he was twenty-two years old. Meanwhile, in I86i, the burning of the family residence, involving the total destruction of the building and goods, gave him his first experience in fighting fire. Afterward he learned the trade of carpenter and joiner. In i868 he came to Grand Rapids, where for several years he continued work at his trade; after which he took a position in the employ of the wellknown business house of Shriver, Weatherly & Co. of this city, as collector and shipping clerk. While at his trade, in I873, he entered the fire service as part-pay Pipeman in No. i Hose Company. There he very soon had his abilities put to test; taking an active part and serving with conspicuous gallantry at the great conflagration in July of that year, on East Bridge and Kent streets, under Chief Shields. Upon reorganization of the Department he was appointed Foreman of Steamer Company No. 2, and served in this capacity until i88o, and on September 6 of that year was elected by the Common Council Chief Engineer of the Fire Department; which position he has since filled acceptably and with zeal and good judgment and discretion. Mr. Lemoin married, May 2I, I874, Harriet J. Findlay, of Ada, Michigan. They have four children, two sons and two daughters, named Roy, Bessie, Ray, and Flossie. In his youth the major part of the expenses and care of his mother fell upon him, and to her ever kind and constant watchfulness and advice does he attribute what measure of success he has thus far attained in life. Mr. Lemoin became a member, in I87I, of Valley City Lodge, No. 86, of Free and Accepted Masons, and is still in that fellowship; also is a member of Valley City Council, No. 6 I, Royal Arcanum, of this city. The orderly and well disciplined condition of the Fire Department, its efficiency and its high standing among organizations of that kind, amply attest to the capabilties of Mr. Lemoin as a manager in the important and responsible position which he has held for nine years continuously and still holds at its head, and to his integrity and fidelity as a citizen and a public officer. CHAPTER XX. RECORD OF IMPORTANT FIRES. NEXT to air and food and water comes fire as among the most indispensable of the servants of humanity. But it is also sometimes among the most dreaded of scourges, in cities and villages, coming as its destructive visitations do, unheraled, "like a thief in the night." Especially during the earlier growth, when buildings are of wood and inflammable material abounds on every side, is a sudden conflagration among the most serious of disasters, meaning destruction to the proceeds of years of hard labor, and sudden poverty to many whose earthly possessions are all in their humble homes or residences. Grand Rapids has not escaped the common lot; its citizens have experienced their full share of calamities by fire. A list of them is of interest to the reader of local history. In that here appended only the most notable are given brief mention, as waymarks along the pathway of years. It could not be well made complete; but includes the most prominent of the fires of the past fifty years in this city, accounts of which have caught attention in the researches connected with this work. In most cases the losses mentioned in round numbers are the minimum estimates, and the figures only approximate; it being much easier to estimate than to appraise such damages. Only in losses of $o, ooo or upward are the amounts given. I844. July I2, the Courthouse which stood on the Public Square. A two-story wood building, originally costing about $5,000. I849. February 22, burning of the school house of District No. i, the first one built here. I850. January I4, the Catholic Chapel, a house erected by Richard Godfroy in i834; south corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets. Mrs. and Miss Kilroy, mother and sister of the priest, perished in the fire. i85I. December i6, C. W. Taylor's tannery at Coldbrook; loss, $io,ooo. He received through the postoffice the following: GRAND RAPIDS, Dec. i6, I85i. Damn you, you have got it at last. I told you I would have revenge. Yours truly, in trouble. The engine house, which stood on Prospect Hill, was burned the same morning. i853. April 8, John Westcott's house, corner Monroe and Spring streets. i854. January i5, saw mills of H. S. Wartrous and David Caswell, Mill street, just below Bridge. May i6, four buildings on north side of Monroe above Ionia street. Another torn down to stop the progress of the fire. i855. February i o, Bridge Street House; total loss. I856. February 5, Taylor's Coldbrook tannery (second time); $12,000. I857. February 27, several buildings west of Canal street and south of the Kent Mill. March I9, Hovey & Company's plaster mill, below city line, west of river. September 25, south side of Monroe between McConnell's and Luce's blocks, and the other side opposite and up to Ottawa street: $75,000. I858. January27, roofs burned from three stores at foot of Monroe street. March 22, two buildings next north of Lovett Block on Canal and row of buildings east on Pearl, to the Arcade. April 5, Bridge street bridge and two or three factories at the east end: $24,000. November 9, the "Old Red Warehouse," on river bank, below Louis street. I859. February 7, nine buildings, including half a dozen stores, from Crescent avenue south, east side of Canal street; $30,000. I86o. January 23,Taylor & Barns' block, county records, and postoffice building: $90,000. April I 5, fifteen wood buildings east of Canal, between Lyon and Crescent: $15,000. July II, Steamer Michigan. I863. July I3, Nearly all the north half of block next south of Bridge, between RECORD OF IMPORTANT FIRES. 189 Canal and Kent streets, burned over; twentyfive buildings; $20,000 to $25,000. I864. January 8, Eagle Printing office building, north side Lyon, between Canal and Kent. March 17, several buildings north of Pearl street, just east of the Arcade; $I0,000. August 7, dwelling house and other buildings, southwest corner Jefferson and Fulton. I865. January I7, Comstock, Nelson & Co.'s Furniture rooms, west side Canal street, south of Huron; $8,ooo. February i, C. C. Comstock's pail factory, Newberry street. October 6, tannery on South Division, near Oakes. i866. May i. Twamley block and all buildings north of Lyon, between Canal and Kent, as far as opposite Huron, including Union Hotel; $ioo,ooo. May 31, thirteen buildings, including the "six sisters," on Ottawa, below Louis; $15,000. I867. May 3I, C. W. Taylor's tannery (third time) burned; $12,000. October iI, three stores, west corner Monroe and Ionia. December I2, Berkey Bros. & Co.'s office and finishing rooms on canal bridge, north of Bridge street; $io,ooo. The total losses of this year, as estimated by the Chief of the Fire Department, were $33,350. i868. October 5, Valley City Woolen Mills, on river bank below Erie street (Collar & Seymour); $25,000. I869. September 7, Letellier & Robinson's sash and blind factory, corner Canal and Trowbridge; $i5,ooo. I87I. February I4, buildings south corner Monroe and Ionia; $io, ooo. April i i, large fire; began on Mill street, opposite Erie; burnt Wilkins Brothers' shops and Comstock's saw mill; crossed the canal and burnt Peirce's store, Empire Hall (Collins block), and all west of Caral street for several hundred feet; losses estimated at over $250,000; insurance over $108,000. May 27, Bronson House, corner Canal and Crescent, and several stores; $25,000. The great Chicago, Holland City and Manistee fires occurred October 8-II, I87I. I872. February 20, Sweet's Hotel burned; $30,000. May 3, twelve buildings between Kent and Ottawa, south of East Bridge street, including the Reformed Church; $40,000. May 8, Squier's Opera House and flouring mill; $55,000. September 20, National Hotel; $28,00o. September 2I, Butterworth's brick building by the river west of the canal basin, used as a coffin factory;- damage, $30,000. October 30, buildings each way from the Lovett block, corner Canal and Pearl; $2I0,000; insurance upward of $ioo,ooo. November 26, old Congregational Church and other buildings beween Division and Spring, at Monroe; $12,000. 1873. January 2, Kent Woolen Mills (John E. Earle owner, Earle & Reynolds operators),! Mill street, north of Bridge; $23,000. May i6, brush factory, west end of Pearl street bridge; $63,000. May 23, Perkins Bros. & Co.'s tannery, near railroad junction and north city limits; $I5,ooo. July I3, about fifteen acres north of East Bridge, between Kent and Ionia, burned over, eighty-eight city lots; nearly one hundred buildings destroyed, and about 130 families burned out. Losses not estimated with any approach to probable correctness. Among them was the Grand Rapids City Flouring Mill, corner of Canal and Hastings streets, Rice & Tearse; valued at $35,000. Insurances aggregated upward of $i66,ooo. The Christ brewery, a large establishment, and many other fine buildings, of brick and of wood, were included in the property destroyed. i874. May 26, six buildings, north side of West Bridge between Scribner and Turner; $12,000. June 4, Verdier and Brown, hardware store, 102 Canal; $14,000. July 7, Michigan Central R. R. depot buildings; $I0,000. July 8, wholesale millinery store and other buildings on Kent, near Lyon; $23,000. August 2I, woodenware works and other shops and warehouse, between Hastings and Trowbridge, east side of Canal street; $25,000. October i I, Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad freight depot, West Side (the first, a smaller one, was burned July I6). November 27, Pearl street, between Lovett block and Arcade; $65,000. 1875. June 19, great conflagration on West Bridge street; an area of several blocks on both sides from the bridge westward; upward of sixty business houses, stores, shops and residences destroyed; $240,000. July I8, furniture shops northwest corner of Kent and Hastings, Berkey & Gay;$20, ooo. July 26, Koster & Kruger's tannery, corner Division and Prescott; $20,000. December 17, steamer Jenison burned at the lower landing. 190 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. I876. May 31I, Michigan Barrel Works, Canal street above Leonard, damage about $13,000. July 28, Rathbun House, Lyon and Botsford blocks; $S5,ooo-Edward T. Parish lost his life. August 28, store northwest corner Fourth and Stocking, with stock; $ I,000ooo. I877. September i2, the Chiet made report that there had been seventy-one fire alarms to date in that year, but the aggregate loss of property was only a little more than $I7,000, as estimated by the Department. In I872 the total loss by fire had been $187,000; in I873, $42I,000; in I874, $I2I,000; in I875, $353,000; in I876, $8o,ooo. This great change was attributed to the acquisition of good water works and improvement in the Fire Department service. i878. January 29, prisoners attempt to burn the jail; damage near $io,ooo. April 15, Powers & Walker burial case factory, Front street, north of Pearl street bridge; $1 3,000. i879. June 5, factories on the East Side canal, south of Bridge street; $25,000. December 17, Powers & Walker coffin factory burned again; $ i, ooo. i88o. March 26, fire in Mohl block, east side Canal street, near Bridge. May 26, Grand Rapids Plaster Company works (Eagle Mills); $35,000. June 9, Luther & Sumner agricultural works, and Hartman's foundry, Front, near Valley street; $i6,ooo. i88I. January 3i, drug house in Ledyard block, corner Pearl and Ottawa; $28,ooo-Mrs. Rose Lowe died by suffocation. February i, Novelty Iron Works (Milmine & Co)., Front, a little north of Bridge. October 21, I. L. Quimby's mill, Canal, north of Leonard; $I2,boo. November 4, Kusterer brewery, ice and malt houses and part of main building, southwest corner of Ionia and Bridge; $15,000. i882. February 25, Putnam & Brooks' candy factory and wholesale house, 63-65 Canal; stock and building, $3I,000. March 20, the New England Furniture Company's warerooms; $25,000. July 24, the barns and other buildings and lumber yards of Michigan Barrel Company, at upper end of Canal street, fire extending east and southeast and across the railway; $8o,ooo. July 25, Grand Rapids Bending Works and saw mill, Prescott street; $I,ooo. August i6, Mechanics Block, northeast corner Louis andCampau; $14,ooo. November 2I, Kent Furniture Company warerooms and Long's saw mill, Front, North of Leonard; $74,000. I883. February 5, Eagle Hotel; $i8,ooo; April 21, Grand Rapids Furniture factory, Butterworth avenue; $40,000. May 25, Carpet Sweeper factory, near upper end of canal; $13,000. May 26, Noble & Company plaster mill; $40,000. i884. March I12, Bissell Carpet Sweeper factory and buildings north, between canal and river, including woolen mill, felt boot shops, Novelty Company's works, C. C. Comstock's saw mill, to opposite Erie street; $ I 50,000. I885. June 29, Grand Rapids Manufacturing Company works, South Front, near Chicago and West Michigan Railroad bridge; $30,000. July i8, DeGraaf, Vrieling & Co., planing mill, corner South Ionia and Bartlett; $25,000. September I3, in Giant Clothing Store, McReynolds Block, $20,000. i886. February 5, G. R. & I. R. R. Car Shops, near south line of city; $22,400. October 7, Union Furniture Company factory, saw mill and stock, north of railroad junction, above city line, in Walker; $70, 000. December 24, in Strahan & Long furniture factory, Front, near Pearl street bridge; $ii,ooo. December 25, Powers & Walker burial casket factory, north of west end of Pearl street bridge; $15,000. I887. June 9, boarding stable, Ottawa near Louis; eleven horses burned, including seven trained ponies. November 27, Nelson, Matter & Company furniture warerooms and office building, extending from Lyon to Huron, east side of Lock street; $i50,000. i888. August 2, fire in shops of Grand Rapids Steel Nail Company, Worden Furniture Company and Blackmore Art Company; Front, near Pearl street bridge, building owned byW. H. Powers; $io,ooo. December 6, at the Harrison Wagon Works; $1 5, ooo. CHAPTER XXI. IMMIGRATION AND NATIVITIES. THE white colonists of Grand Rapids were immigrants, coming chiefly at first from the New England States, New York and Ohio. There has been a steady tide of immigration from that day to this, not only from other States but from foreign countries; insomuch that as late as 1870, of a total population of 50,540 in Kent county, 12,094 were born in other countries, and only i9,856 were born in Michigan. In i88o, of a total in the county of 73,253, the foreign born numbered I7,420, the native born 55,833, and of the latter only 34,368 were natives of Michigan. In I870, of the foreign born 3,664 were from British America; i, o8 from England and Wales, 2,093 from Ireland, 296 from Scotland, I,722 from Germany, 2,554 from Holland, 60 from France, and 2i3 from Sweden and Norway. Of the native population of the county in that year, I 1,040 were born in New York State, 2,434 in Ohio, 1,040 in Pennsylvania, 401 in Indiana, and 725 in Vermont. In i88o, of the county population 4,312 were born in British America, I,400 in England and \Vales, 2,236 in Ireland, 356 in Scotland, 2,51I in the German Empire, 5, I 86 in Holland, 66 in France, 513 in Sweden and Norway, 11,452 in New York, 3,102 in Ohio, 1,587 in Pennsylvania, and 724 in Vermont. Without going into details of smaller numbers, this may give a general idea of the diversity and relative proportions of nativities of persons in this county for the years mentioned. Something like this has been the mixed character of the community of Kent county from the beginning up. In the city, since the date of its incorporation, the proportion of foreign to native population has been somewhat greater; being, for example, 5,725 foreign to o10,782 native-born in i870, leaving out ioo colored persons-for other years there is a lack of exact data. A few Irish came to Grand Rapids in I835, to work at digging the canal or mill race, and in the early years a few French people, in addition to those connected with the fur trade, joined the settlement. Again in I841, or about the time of the enlargement of the canal, came more Irish workers, but aside from these the accessions from foreign countries during the first dozen years were not numerous. In i842 a public meeting was held in Grand Rapids and a local society formed for the promotion of immigration, and John Ball was appointed the resident agent. In the following year the newspapers began to complain that there was not enough effort made to induce immigration to Michiganimmigrants were slipping by into Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa. This was due partly to the influence of the boatmer on the lakes, and partly, no doubt, to the very discouraging reports which had beer made in previous years by Government officials and others, of the character of the soil and climate of Michigan. One of those reports made at an early day described the country as abounding in lakes, swamps, marshes, and narrow, sluggish streams, with spaces of poor, barren, sandy lands bearing scarcely any vegetation. It said further: "Taking the country altogether so far as has been explored, and to all appearances, together with the information received con cerning the balance, it is so bad there woulc not be more than one acre out of a hundred, if there would be one out of a thousand, that would in any case admit of cultivation." This extract is from a report of a surveyor, under an act of Congress requiring that 2,000,000 acres of land be surveyed in the Territory of Michigan, to be set apart for soldiers of the War with Great Britain. It is doubtful if that surveyor came far into Michigan. John Almy was appointed Immigration Agent by Governor Barry, in the spring of i845, and the State that year made an 192 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. appropriation of $700 to encourage immigration. John Almy and Edmund B. Bostwick, of Grand Rapids, issued a pamphlet setting forth in glowing terms the inducements and advantages here for settlement, copies of which they sent east for distribution where it would do the most good. These initial efforts materially aided in attracting attention to the Grand River Valley. In 1846 came the advance company of the Holland Colony under the leadership of Dr. A. C. Van Raalte-seventeen families. They landed in New York November 4, but did not reach Holland until February, I847. In March, i847, about 150 more arrived. and hundreds more came that season. The majority of these Holland colonists settled in or near where now is the City of Holland, Ottawa county, on the tract which Dr. Van Raalte had selected for them. But a very large number, in search of employment or business, came to Grand Rapids and settled here. Large additions were made to their number in I848-49. July 4, I849, the Enquirer said: " Some one hundred or more Dutchmen (Hollanders, we believe,) arrived at Grandville last week. They are the advance guard of about 500 who have come in a body to this river." And again, September i9: "During the past week our streets have been 'taken by the Dutch.' The Hollanders have resorted here in uncommon numbers, and their ox teams have made quite a caravan." From that time to the present, almost yearly, there have been large accessions of this class of hardy, industrious people to our population. In i854 the Hollanders of the city formed an immigration society to aid poor people in their native country, desiring to emigrate, to come here. In 188o and i88i especially, came colonies of from 200 to 300 each, of whom doubtless more than one-half stopped in Grand Rapids, the others going west or north. As to the number of Hollanders now here, there are no data set down in the State census reports; but according to the United States census they outnumber in the county any other class of foreign-born residents. In the manufacturing establishments of this city are large numbers of Holland nativity or parentage; steady, careful and trusty workmen. The immigration from Ireland has been constant from the beginning. Many Irish, about 1848, fled from the mother country as' fast as they could get away, being under the displeasure of the British Government on account of the revolutionary movements of O'Brien and other patriots of that period. Considerable numbers of Irish families had previously settled about the Rapids and in this vicinity, and from that time for several years their accessions from newcomers were steady and large. There had been in fact as early as 1846 Irish relief movements here, and liberal contributions of funds (considering the smallness and comparative poverty of the place) in aid of the suffering classes in Ireland, who had been brought to great distress by the prevalence of potato-rot and other disasters, as well as by political complications. The comers here had great affection for and strong sympathies with those left upon the old sod, and were constantly sending such relief supplies as they could spare not only, but funds to enable them to come over and share the advantages of free government in a new country. The later Fenian troubles, and the difficulties on account of the exactions of landlords. familiar to everybody, have served also to keep tip a steady stream of immigration from Ireland, of which the Grand Rapids region has taken its full share. They form a not inconsiderable factor of the population, assimilate readily under our customs and institutions, and in the main become a patriotic and energetic class of citizens. The German people in large numbers seem to have taken a great liking to this country and its institutions, almost equal to that which they have for their national beverage. A few of them settled in and about Grand Rapids before i840. Among the earliest here were the Cordes family, Anthony and Elizabeth, with seven sons and one daughter, of whom and their descendants a large number are now living in the city and neighboring towns. They came from Westphalia, Germany, in 1836, and settled in Clinton county, and there started and named the town of Westphalia. Fron there they came here in the "hard winter" of I842-43. Prior to i85o also came the Thomes, Kusterers, Christs, Tusches, and other German families who have since been more or less prominently identified with the history and development of the city. As a class the German immigrants are a stalwart people; intelligent and enterprising, and withal eminently social and musical. In IMMIGRATION AND NATIVITIES. 1 t3 point of numbers they form a large and inllfuential class of those who have come across the seas. Among the skilled mechanics and expert workmen in our factories are many of German nativity or descent. From the refugees of 1848 to the latest free comers they are alike fervid and enthusiastic in their love for the country of their adoption. October 6, 1883,'the Germans by nativity and descent of this city held a bicentennial celebration of German immigration to this country —of the landing at Germantown, now a part of Philadelphia, October 6, 1683, of their first colony, of thirteen (Quaker families. It was a notable occasion among enthusiastic anniversary jubilees in Grand Rapids. A procession over two miles long paraded the streets, in which the city officers, policemen, bands, military companies and Grand Army Posts joined, and the local German societies were out in full numbers. There were large delegations from abroad-Kalamazoo German societies came in uniform. The Michigan Staals- Zc/itntr and the Sonnlags- j,-latt of this city were in line with displays, the former rejpresenting a wilderness in Pennsylvania, with William Penn and two Indians in consultation, the latter a modern printing office. The Grand Rapids Turn Verein represented the first German immigrants in costume. There was also a very large trades displayworkmen dressed according to their avocations, butchers, brewers with big casks, maltsters with big shovels, coopers, bakers, a Vienna bakery turning out old bread and new, and almost every variety of store and shop. Prominent native as well as German tradesmen and merchants joined in the jubilee. Crops in Norway and Sweden had been poor for about seven years prior to I870. Much distress prevailed there, and emigrants from those countries were going through Michigan to Wisconsin and Minnesota and other western points. Those people came largely in colonies. Rev. J. P. Tustin, in i871, went to Europe, tinder an arrangement with the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company and others interested in foreign immigration,and succeeded in directing the attention of many of the Scandinavians to Michigan. Through his and other similar efforts nearly a thousand Swedes and Norwegians have become residents hereabout, a large proportion of them at Grand Rapids. There is quite an admixture here also of Polanders. In the census tables, British America is given as the country from which a very large portion of our foreign-born population came here. But undoubtedly a great number of these also were born beyond the Atlantic. Our community is made up of a mixture from many nationalities and bloods; the natives outnumbering the total of the foreigners, however, in the ratio of about three to one. But the immigrants assimilate rapidly, generally take immediate steps for naturalization, and on becoming citizens show equal readiness with the Yankee people to vote and accept office, with the duties and responsibilities attaching thereto. They heard of this valley and its attractions at a very early day, and for the last forty years there has been little need of immigration societies. They heeded not much the difficulties in the way of getting here, they have come freely and they like their new home. CHAPTER XXII. POLITICAL PARTIES AND ELECTIONS. MICHIGAN was not a State when this town was settled, and for the local elections in the first few years there was little or no division politically. At the first town election in 1834, there were offices for all the voters present, and for some of them two apiece. In those days the local officers worked for the public good with small or no salary. For a considerable number of years, and until the establishment of a local Board of Supervisors, Rix Robinson as a representative of this region ill county councils, was wont to travel on foot to Kalamazoo, bearing his own expenses, for the small pittance of $I.50 per day. At the time of the Presidential election in 1836, Michigan had three electoral votes, though her admission as a State was not then consummated. Grand Rapids had no newspaper, and the fervor of local political patriotism was expended principally in talk. Yet in Kent county 54 votes were cast for Van Buren, and 7 which in the returns were classed as "scattering." The Anti-Masonic party flurry had subsided, and voters at this time were aligned in two parties, Democratic and Whig. This town was almost wholly Democratic, and town and county voted nearly unanimously for Stevens T. Mason for first Governor of the State. Grand Rapids was the voting place for all the region west and north, then attached to Kent county for juidicial purposes, and in 1837 people came here from Muskegon and Grand Haven to vote. They came up the river by steamboat, and on landing formed in procession and marched to the polls at the Bridge Street House (then called Kent Hotel). Samuel Baker ("Big Baker," height 6 feet 7 inches) headed the line, carrying a flag; followed by Rix Robinson and his five brothers, and L. G. Baxter, all tall men. Alanson Cramton officiated as bugler. In an address to the pioneers at Muskegon, August i6, 1888, Thomas D. Gilbert said: I well remember making the journey from Grand Haven to Grand Rapids in 1837, to cast my first vote at the election that enrolled Michigan in the sisterhood of States. I do not think Muskegon was represented in the boatload of about fifty Democrats and three Whigs who attended that election. Stevens T. Mason, the first Governor of Michigan, was elected by an overwhelming majority; but three years later we (that is the Whigs) had the pleasure of burying the other side out of sight, with Old Tippecanoe at the head of the ticket. At the first village election in 1838, the highest number of votes cast was 141; in several subsequent years the vote was light at local elections, and the records, therefore, do not indicate the full number of actual voters. In I843 the highest given any candidate for Trustee was forty-four. In 1844 the Democrats had a small majority in the county. The Whigs elected Sheriff and Register, and the Democrats the rest of the county officers. The total vote of the county in that year was 1,072. In 1845 the highest vote cast at the village election was I45; on the question of license for liquor selling, 141 votes were cast. In the township the Democrats had an average majority of 40. In the spring of 1849 the vote of Grand Rapids Township was 362, nearly evenly divided between the Democrats and Whigs. In the county the Democrats elected the majority of the Supervisors. At the first and second village elections the Whigs had begun to show some strengtlh, but there was little of the excitement of party spirit until the Presideltial election of 1840, when as above intimate(l the tables were nearly turned, the vote of the county being 319 Whig to 320 I)emocratic. In that year, of the "Tippecanoe an(l Tyler too" canvass against Van Buren, party spirit ran high, and the local enthusiasm and excitement were about as great here as in other parts of the country. Log cabins, hard cider and coon skins on the one side, and roosters and hickory poles on the other, were the favorite party emblems during tlhe POLITICAL PARTIES AND ELECTIONS. 195 canvass. Delegations from all the country round came in to village mass-meetings, eating houses were crowded, tables in the open air were bounteously loaded, and johnny-cake and cider and whisky were disbursed freely. A local Liberty Party organization was formed in I841, whicl nominated James Ballard as candidate for the State Legislature, and gave him sixteen votes; while 66i votes were cast for George \V. Dexter, Democrat, and 428 for \Villiam B. Hawks, Whig, in this Representative district, comprising the counties of Kent, Ionia and Ottawa, and northward. This Liberty Party was a plant of rapid growth, and from it sprang the Free Soil party of 1848 and 1852, and the Free Democratic party, holding a distinct and fast-growing organization until finally merged in the Republican party in I854. The canvass of I844 was substantially a repetition of that of 1840, with somewhat less of popular enthusiasm, though quite as rabid in newspaper warfare. Among the Democratic political couplets of the time was this: "Those sheets what have the biggest lies in, Go strong for Clay and Frelinghuysen." The canvass of 1848, conling just after the close of the Mexican war, was also a lively one, in which at the election the Whigs had a plurality in Grand Rapids of 24 votes. The WXhigs held a mass-meeting on the publlic square, which was addressed in behalf of their national ticket by Zachariah Chandler, of Detroit. October 24 a similar Democratic mass-meeting was held in the same place, and addressed by Charles E. Stuart, of Kalamazoo, and a free dinner was given at the National and the Rathbun -ouse to attendants from out of town. Those were very enthusiastic gatherings, and much larger than had ever before been asselmbled here. The Free Democrats held a convention at the Court House, October 28, and nominated candidates for county officers. The first city election ran rather strongly upon party lines, as had also the village election of the pre\iolus month, April i, 1850, in both of which the XVhigs were victorious, and about wlhich the A1q'uir'rr (Democratic) indulg(led in the following comments, April 3, I850: Monday, being the first of April, the Whigs in this town were served a regular trick, were fooled by a victory, in the election of their whole ticket by an average majority of 15, excepting two constables. We shall soon be organized in and about these precincts under a city charter, and thus shall oust these Whig officers, "just as easy." Again, May 15, after the City election, the JEnlqui/r'r- remarked: We have got a City Charter; the Whigs have had an election under it; now let us see the use of it; its benefit; now let's see the exercise of the more efficient authority it has been represented as possessing, and has been promised to wield. The Democracy,ever and instinctively jealous of incorporated and largely aggregated powers, have in a sincere desire for the public good opposed no hindrance to the Incorporation, nor an), to the organization under it; quietly letting the Whigs get their charter and elect their chosen men under it; and now will await with patience and hope the vast improvement and increase of municipal prosperity, health and happiness, these gentlemen have undertaken to produce by this particular political machinery. Tune:-' Paddle your swift canoe." The canvass of I852 was a warm one locally as well as generally. The Whigs held a mass-meeting October 2, on the public square, addressed by Z. Chandler and other speakers. October I4, a Democratic mass-meeting was held at the same place. During the speech the platform broke down tinder the weight of the people upon it, which raised a shout from the W\higs in the outskirts of the crowd. A lumber wagon with a tall hickory in it was drawn upon the ground, in which General Cass took his stand and finished his address. Both of these were large meetings for those days, above five thousand people being present upon each occasion. Early in this year, the Free Democrats, at a meeting held in the Public Hall, perfected a local organization, and issued a declaration indorsing the Pittsburg Free Democratic platform, and declaring in favor of: I. Freedom of the public lands to actual settlers, except the cost of survey and transfer. 2. Limitation of the quantity of land to be acquired by one person or family. 3. Natural and equal rights to all, regardless of color or clime. 4. A free elective franchise. 5. The enactment of no laws, either by Congress or State Legislatures granting special privileges. 6. Free schools. 7. The Maine law. The election of I852 having resulted disastrously to the Wliigs, the Democrats were correspondingly elated, and the Eag/c newspaper (\Nhig), which had grudgingly supported the ticket of its party, while "spitting on the platform," retired in disgust and sus 196(; HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. pended publication for a time. In the following spring, it surprised its patrons by reappearing with the legend at its head: "An Independent Democratic Journal." There was a comparative lull in politics until I854, when a large meeting of Free Democrats was held in the Public Hall, at which Lovell Moore, Erie Prince, Albert Baxter, William H. Stewart and Alanson St. Clair were appointed delegates to the Free Democratic State Convention, held February 22, at Jackson. This was the forerunner of the mass convention held " under the oaks," at the same place, July 6, I854, when and where the Republican party was organized and named. In the spring of that year the Whigs and Free Democrats in the city united, and won by majorities ranging from 47 to ii5. The "Old Guard Whigs," deeming themselves "out in the cold," nominated a city ticket and polled something over a hundred votes. In this, its first endeavor, the Republican party carried the State of Michigan, and has held it from that time to the present (with the exception of the Governor for one termthat of 1883 to I885). It (1854) was also the first year in which the Democrats had failed to carry Kent county. Over this result great was the exultation of the Republicans, while the feeling of the Democrats may be illustrated from the following expression of the Enquzi-er after the election: "We recommend the Fusionists to make the most of their majority-rejoice, hurrah, throw up your caps and when they come down stamp on them, laugh at the Democrats, fire the cannon, shout, eat oysters, imbibe, pocket the stakes, and do all other things that victors may of right do, and we will not complain, for the day of your rejoicing will soon be at an end. So go it while you're young, for very soon you can't." In the same issue was the following wail: "Fanaticism has succeeded, and the black flag of Abolitionism, Religious Intolerance and Political Proscription waves in triumph over the State." The political struggle of I856 was a very warm contest, and the canvass one of unusual enthusiasm. The Republicans in that year introduced the custom of organizing companies, with officers and regular drills. They were uniformed in light-colored caps and capes, in which their young men delighted to parade. They erected a "Fre mont tent" for their meetings, and the Democrats had their "wigwam." Both parties held large mass-meetings, and made excursions with long processions to meetings out of town. The "old line Whigs" kept up the show of an organization with a "'club" attachment. At the fall election the Republicans carried the city by a bare majority of four for Fremont, but they had a jubilee over their State and county victory, letting loose their enthusiasm in the blowing of tin horns, and parading with torches through nearly all the streets in the city. On Saturday evening following, the Democrats had their turn, exulting over the Buchanan victory in the Nation. Some excesses were indulged in, such as smashing window blinds and tearing down fences, but in general their jubilation found vent in noise. About this period in our political history the badinage of the newspapers, "illustrated with cuts," and occasional caricatures, was often amusing, the rooster with head and plumage erect, the cannon and the star spangled banner were popular pictures for display by both parties. In the spring of i86o parties in the city were very nearly evenly, balanced. The Republicans elected the Mayor and the majority of the Council, and the other officers were divided. The general canvass of that year, the memorable Lincoln and Douglas contest, was here as everywhere in the country conducted with a great deal of earnestness and popular enthusiasm. Mass meetings and fervid speeches were frequent, and large political processions in the city. The canvass of I864 was much imbued with the war feeling, and a sort of military ardor pervaded most of the political conventions and public gatherings. A similar feeling prevailed in political circles in I868, though the war had passed, owing to the candidacy for President of the General who had led the Union Army to victory, and to this was added the excitement of a heated discussion of the policy of an unlimited issue of United States Treasury notes, in liquidation of public indebtedness, from which what is known as the Greenback or National party took its rise. Following this, or nearly cotemporaneous with it, came the Prohibition party, and then the Labor party, into the complications of political rivalries, strifes and elections. In State and local politics, fusions or alliances be POLITICAL PIARTIES AND ELECTIONS. 10, tween the National, Labor Union, and Democratic parties, have several times given to the combination a strength nearly equal to that of the Republican party, and in some localities greater. The woman's rights movement, as it is familiarly called, took organized form in this city in April, I874. Upward of one hundred citizens, of both sexes, united in a call for a meeting to form a Woman Suffrage Association. It was held April 27, in Luce's Hall, and the "Grand Rapids Woman Suffrage Association" was then organizedS. L. Withey, President; Richmond Fisk, Jr., Recording Secretary; Mrs. S. L. Fuller, Corresponding Secretary; Harvey J. Hollister, Treasurer. Shortly afterward a county society was formed, of which E. L. Briggs was President. The association has been kept up, and the advocacy of the policy of granting the right to vote to women, has been steadily pushed by it ever since. It cannot properly be classed among the political parties in the sense of being composed of voters. It was active in procuring the passage of the law giving suffrage to women illn school elections. It is now superseded or supplanted by the Equal Suffrage Association, whose officers are: President, Mrs. C. B. Hodges; Vice-Presidents, Mrs. Phobe Whitfield, Mrs. E. B. Ketcham; Recording Secretary, Mrs. I. E. Stone; Corresponding Secretary, Mrs. M. E. Bedell. In elections of local officers, of town, city or county, it not infrequently happens that personal preference and local questions at issue, rather than party affiliations, determine the result. Hence the following statements of votes given on State and National tickets will represent most nearly the number of voters in, and the relative local strength of the several political parties: VOTES FOR PRESIDENT. ('1'I''. (' I N'I'Y. 1S3:; -Van I3uren, Democrat............ 54 Scattering....................... 7 1 40- Harrison, W hig.................. 3 1 9 Van IBuren, Democrat........... 31M) I S4- Clay, WVhig...................... 476( Polk, Democrat................ 564( S48 —Taylor, W hig............... *1 3 6(53 Cass, Democrat............. 1.!) 7(S Van Buren, Free Soil........ ) 70:33 IS'-.'- Scott, W hig................. 5 l, 22 Pierce, Democrat............ 3:141 1,5.19 Hale, Free Soil............. 48 1 6) IS 8.-i-Fremont, Republican........ 715,) 2.931 Buchanan, Democrat........ 7(11 2, 1 *shil) Uf IGrand Ralfids. CITY. 1860-Lincoln, Republican......... 921 Douglas, Democrat.......... 625 1864-Lincoln, Republican......... 813 McClellan, Democrat........ 823 1868-Grant, Republican.......... 1,447 Seymour, Democrat........ 1,136 1872-Grant, Republican.......... 2,142 Greeley, Dem. and Liberal... 1,356 O'Conor, Democrat............... Black, Prohibition................ 1876-Hayes, Republican.......... 3,840 Tilden, Democrat..........2,447 Cooper, Greenback........ 1,101 Smith, Prohibition............... 1880)-Garfield, Republican.... 3,517 Hancock, Democrat........2,331) Weaver, Greenback........ 1,50)7 Dow, Prohibition................. 1884-Blaine, Republican......... 4,378 Cleveland, Democrat........ 3, 05 Butler, Greenback........... 1,591 St. John, Prohibition........ 273 1888-Harrison, Republican........ 6,604 Cleveland, Democrat........ 7,005 Fisk, Prohibition........... 385 VOTES FOR GOVERNOR. CITY. 1841-John S. Barry, Democrat......... Philo C. Fuller, Whig............ Jabez S. Fitch, Liberty........... 1843-John S. Barry, Democrat......... Zina Pitcher, W hig................. James G. Birney, Liberty......... 184.)-Alpheus Felch, Democrat......... Stephen Vickery, Whig............ James G. Birney, Liberty......... 1849-F. J. Littlejohn, Whig....... *162 John S. Barry, Democrat.... *151 1851-Townsend D, Gidley, Whig.. 149 Robert McClelland, Democrat 181) 1852 —Zach. Chandler, Whig....... 291 Robert McClelland, Democrat 344 I. I'. Christiancy, Free Soil.. 35 1854-Kinsley S. Bingham, Rep.... 375 John S. Barry, Democrat.... 374 1856-Kinsley S. Bingham, Rep.... 704 Alpheus Felch, Democrat.... 738 1858-Moses Wisner, Republican... 874 Charles E. Stuart, Democrat. 927 180i)-Austin Blair, Republican..l... 9)10 John S. Barry, Democrat.... 693 182-Austin Blair, Republican.... 661 Byron G. Stout, Democrat... 758 1814-Henry H. Crapo, Republican. 814 William M. Fenton, Democrat 830 18061-Henry H. Crapo, Republican. 1,017 A. S. Williams, Democrat.... 824 18I18-Henry P. Baldwin, Republican 1,4432 John Moore, Democrat....... 1.140 1 8710-Henry P. Baldwin, Republican 1,27)0 C. C. Comstock, Democrat... 1,5201 1872-John J. Bagley, Republican.. 2,147 Austin Blair, Dem. and Liberal 1,3819 William M. Ferry, Democrat. 25 1874-John J. Bagley, Republican.. 1, 921 Henry Chamberlain, Democrat 1,881) 1871-Charles M. Croswell, Rep.... 2,140) William L..Webber, Democrat 2,240 I*'!'own of (Grand Rapids. COUNTY. 3,647 2,540 3,398 2,9166 5,41 2 3,83(1 5, 917 3, 089 98 14 7,40)3 5,678 2,0)55 3 8,313 5,115 3,037 58 9,007 6,9 02 2,755 1,040 12,810 11,865 1,.242, COUNTY. 338 209) 7 405 246 16 500 433 42 744 613 748 1,240 1,543 128 1,540 1,493 2,940 2,596 3,112 2, 813 3, 721 2, 43 3,09)0 2, 25 3,046 2,976 4, 067 2, 698 5,392 3,834 3,841 3, (, I.6 3,010(1 5, 893 3,231 101 4, 608 4,494 7,402 5, 7064 198 198 H~~IISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. CITY.. Levi Sparks, Greenback..1, 1121 1878-Charles M. Croswell, Rep.... 2,1t4( 0. M. Barnes, Democrat....809 Henry S. Smith, Greenback.. 2, 626 1880-David H. Jerome, Republican. 2, 3 1 2 F. M. Holloway, Democrat... 2, 7469 David Woodman, Greenback. 1, 369 I. W. McKeever, Prohibition. 13 1882-David H Jerome, Republican 2, 657 Josiah W. Begole, Fusion.... 4,036 D. P. Sagendorph, Prohibition 74 1884-Russell A. Alger, Republican. 4,265 Josiah W. Begole, Fusion.... -5, 212 David Preston, Prohibition... 307 1885-Cyrus G. Luce, Republican.. 3,759 George L. Yaple, Fusion....4,7176 Samuel Dickie, Prohibition... 42.1.1888-Cyrus G. Luce, Republican... 6, 631 W. R. Burt, Democrat.....6 A. B. Cheney, Prohibition...:1 8 5 COUNTY. 2,062 5,691 1,633 65,076( 7,87 7 5,624 2,933 68s 6,3`2 0 8,1I8 1 3 741 8,84:3 9),68;4 1,1I ()6; 7, 763 8, 6 70 1, 53 1 12,798 1 1,816i 1,28:1 - VOTES IN THE STATE-THIRTEEN YEARS. Y'R. 18477 18 78 1879 188(1 1880 1881 1882 188:1 1884 1884 18S85 I1885 1886 18871 1887 1888 1888 President..s;.90 1 14 169W5 N,06 Governor..165,926 142,492 8, 297, Supreme (Jourt.1....I12,05:1 85,748 (..overnor..1206,281) 78,50:1 74:155... Suipremne Court. 1.12,21. 1 126,270.... (;overnor........ 178,941 1:174, 671:15, 122~... President. 185,190 11 1301 I:134,895... Supreme Court.....127,436 72,7:30:33,2u~1; 12,77 4 FUSION. Governor........ 149),6974 154,2f;8... 5,854 Supreme Cor.....19,870 127:176... 1:1, 4 67 Governor..........190,840 186;.887,.. 21;,207 President.........112,1;f;9 149,8:15 41,490 18,40): Sttpreme C.ur.....18,694 16(;8,615U)... Regettts......... I 3,s,:l0 155,74:1..... 14,708 (;overnor... 11,474 174,0)42...25,184 Sutpreme Cout; t.... 11 i), 749 1 19,940 12,139; 18,568 R egen ts..........I2:135 4 142,104 27,;51l 18,7 7:1 LA ItR. Gotvernor..........2 21);,450 4:188.20:142 President.........,3 -,o 21:1,404 4. 54 2 20,942 CITY AND COUNTY TOTAL. VOTE. The following statement of votes cast, in the city and county, in the various years mentioned, furnishes an indication of the comparative increase in the voting population: Total vote in 1852-city, 674; county, 2,911. In i868-cityj 2,583; county, 9,251. In 1876-city, 7,388; county, 15,139. In 1884-city, 9,847; county, 19,704. In i888 -city, 13,994;' county, 25,927. CHAPTER XXIII. TEMPERANCE AND LIQUORS. THE history of the rum traffic, and of the free use of ardent spirits without criticism, except where the user was a sot or a drunkard, in this region once known as the Northwest Territory, dates back to the first appearance of white men amlong the aborigines. In the old bills and inventories and accounts for the Indian trade of a century ago, and in both French and English control, the article of "Rum" appears as prominently as pork and gunpowder and knives and tobacco. The Temperance history begins nearer to modern days. The pioneer farmers and mechanics and tradesmen seem to have had no thought of the need of temperance societies. But these came in a few years. The Rev. James Ballard began as early as i838 to plead for total abstinence from intoxicating beverages, and the organization of temperance societies. These had few members at first, but they were very much in earnest. At that time the idea of compelling abstinence by legislative enactment had not taken root. "Moral suasion" was the favorite weapon for reform. In the spring of 1842 was organized a temperance society called the \Vashingtonians, in the village, with a liberal membership. Lucius Lyon was its President, George Martin and Charles H. Taylor Vice Presidents, John \V. Peirce Recording Secretary, George M. Mills Corresponding Secretary, and Benjamin Smith Treasurer. This association was kept up for some years, and generally at active work in the promotion of temperance; the simple formula being that of signing the pledge. In June of that year Truman H. Lyon, the landlord of the Exchange Hotel (Bridge Street House), had banished liquors from his bar, and kept a temperance house. Myron Hinsdill, in the National, had done so five years earlier. In 1847 a Division of the Sons of Temperance was instituted, and had its lodge room in Irving Hall. It soon became popular, and its growth was rapid for two or three years. A second Division was formed, and the two had nearly a hundred members each. They fitted up a room in the Public Hall building. on Canal street for their meetings, which they christened Sons of Temperance Hall. But internal dissensions occasioned the dissolution of these associations in I85o. That of the Sons of Temperance was the first secret society here in that special field of work. Meanwhile there was the old-time general belief in the advisability of regulating the liquor traffic by legal restraint, regarding it as a social vice whose evils could be lessened in that way. Tavern keepers "of good moral character" were licensed to sell spirituous liquors by town and village boards. The Trustees of the village of Grand Rapids in December, 1844, adopted an ordinance fixing $25 per annum as the amount of license for ball alleys and gaming houses, and $20 per annum for selling liquors to be drank on the premises. This license system prevailed until i850, when a clause in the State constitution forbade the granting of licenses to sell intoxicating liquors. p1ROH I 13 IT ON.The '"Maine Law'' (prohibitory) was submitted to popular vote in June, I853, and was carried by a large majority. In this city the majority in its favor was 337; in the county 6o8. The Act contained the sirgular provision that if at the election the majority should vote "yes," it should take effect December i, I853; but if the majority should vote "no," then it shotld become a law March i, 1870. There were many meetings held by its friends to devise ways and means to enforce the law (at one time whisky barrel heads were knocked in and the liquor ran down the gutters of Monroe street); but on February i, I854, it received 200 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. a quietus by the failure of the State Supreme Court to hold it valid. It was re-enacted in its substantial features, and then sustained by the courts. But great difficulty was experienced in efforts for its enforcement in Grand Rapids. Its friends had a majority, as the voting had shown, and the leaders among them were active and zealous; nevertheless it was violated openly and defiantly, and in a short time it was found almost impossible to sustain prosecutions and secure convictions. In I858 ---59 there was a renewal of temperance effort here, in the secret society line. A lodge of Good Templars was organized, which held its sessions at the Masonic Hall in CommercialBlock. The then novel feature of the initiation of ladies in such organizations, and their eligibility to office therein equally with members of the other sex, gave it a sudden popularity, and Piccolomini Lodge, No 73, I. 0. of G. T., flourished finely for a brief existence. At this period, however, there was not much aggressiveness in the temperance movement; there was a slow dying out of zeal, and when the War of the Rebellion came on, the excitement of military ardor turned all energies in another direction. During the twenty-five years following the adoption of the Constitution of i850 there could be no legal licensing of the liquor traffic; and during the twenty years after i855 there was a stringent prohibitory law on the statute books; nevertheless, the sale of liquors was practically free or but slightly embarrassed in Grand Rapids within all that period. The Good Templar organizations renewed their efforts and energies quickly after the close of the war of i86i-65. Early in i866 branch lodges were established in nearly all the towns of Kent county and about. There were three lodges in this city in I867, whose headquarters were at Good Templars' Hall, then on Canal street. Benjamin A. Harlan was Grand Worthy Chief Templar for Kent county. J. D. Dillenback, Warren C. Weatherly, Luman R. Atwater, George Gray, XV. G. Beckwith, Sheldon Leavitt, Mary Berkey, Nellie Cogshall, Seraph R. Stewart and Lucy E. Pearson were among the officers of these local institutions. June ii and I2, I867, the Grand River Valley Association of Good Templars held an enthusiastic session in this city at the Methodist Episcopal church, and adopted a memorial praying for an express provisioll in the State Constitution prohibiting the granting of licenses for the sale of intoxicating beverages. This was addressed to the convention held that year for the purpose of framing a new Constitution. February 7, i868, there was a public installation in Good Templars' Hall of the officers of Valley City Lodge No. 481, I. 0. G. T., and George Gray, Past Worthy Chief Templar, delivered a stirring address in advocacy of legal prohibition, with stringent provisions for its enforcement. In the five or six following years, the agitation of this subject on the part of the workers in the prohibitory movement was constant and zealous. LATE ' R R(;ANIZ/ED).M (IV M N''S. To write down all the details of the Temperance and Prohibitory movements of the latest fifteen years would be but to recapitulate what is within the memory of most adults of the present day. A few salient points will suffice for the range that can be allotted in this History. In February and March, I873, there was a stirring revival of the temperance element. Population was increasing, and among twenty-five thousand people cases of drunkenness and crime were more frequent than when the town contained but one or two thousand. Beginning February 9, I873, there was a series of Sunday meetings, in Luce's Hall, at first filling it, but by the end of March thinning out to very feeble gatherings in point of numbers. It was resolved to raise a frund of $ to,ooo to be used in efforts for suppression of the traffic in liquors. But no fund was raised, and the culmination of the fervor appeared in the adoption of a memorial praying the Common Council to "interpose their official powers" to "limit and control, if not suppress, the sale of intoxicating drinks as a beverage." This was placed before the Council by a committee of women. The WVays and Means Committee of the Common Council considered it and made report in substance: That the granting of license to sell intoxicating drinks was forbidden by the State Constitution; that the manufacture and sale were prohibited by the law of i855; that the law of 187I provided a remedy for persons daimaged by the sale; that the city charter forbade the granting of license and only gave to the Council a regulatory power; that in their opinion this city had less crime TEMPERANCE AND LIQUORS. 201 and preserved better order than any other of equal population in the State. Then there was a temporary lull in the temperance agitation. Another revival, and what in the familiar language of the time was called the "crusade of prayer," occurred in the spring of I874. Announcement was made that ladies of the Christian Temperance associations would visit saloons, pray with the proprietors and exhort them to quit their business. Only in two or three instances was this programme carried out. Eleven prominent clergymen of the city joined in signing a call recommending that the Christian men and women "devote a day to prayer and consultation in relation to intemperance and its kindred evils." In response to that a large gathering filled the Baptist church March i8, day and evening, at which prayers and short addresses were the chief features of the exercises. Such meetings were frequent during several weeks. The Prohibition Society held daily afternoon prayer meetings. The ladies of the Prohibition Society reported April I that the druggists of the city had signed a pledge not to sell intoxicating liquors except for mechanical or medicinal uses. June 22, I874, a committee of ladies from the Prohibition Society visited the Common Council and personally presented an appeal to that body to enforce the laws in relation to the liquor traffic, and especially the Sunday laws, and those in regard to the hours of closing saloons at night. FROM PROHIBITION TO TAXATION. In the early part of I875 there were frequent meetings, marked by great earnestness and some excitement, in behalf of a movement to repeal the Prohibitory Law of I855, and enact a stringent tax law in its stead. This was general throughout the State, and received the countenance of many who had been ultra Prohibitionists. They reasoned that inasmuch as Prohibition had failed, a tax law that could be enforced would be a great improvement. The effort succeeded, and the Liquor Tax Law took effect August 2, i875. It imposed an annual tax of $40 on retail dealers in beer; from $50 to $300 on brewers, according to amount of their manufacture; on retail dealers in spirituous liquors $150, and on wholesalers of spirits $300. There was some effort on the part of the dealers to modify its stringency, 14 by getting of the Common Council liberal provisions as to closing hours of saloons; but in this city the tax law went into operation without much friction. It effected a considerable reduction in the number of saloons, and brought into the treasury from city saloon keepers $20,254.42 before the first day of January, I876, at which time there were i85 saloons in the city. At the November election in I876, the State constitution was amended by a popular vote, striking out the section which prohibited the passage of any law authorizing the grant of licenses for the sale of intoxicating liquors. In this city the vote was for striking out, 1,797; against, 377. In Kent county, 2,640 for; 1,310 against. In the State, 60,639 for, and 52,56i against. The State Liquor Tax Law has been several times amended, each time in the direction of making it more stringent. The specific taxes imposed upon manufacturers and dealers have been largely increased. On some occasions dealers have tested the law in the courts, but in the main it has withstood their attacks, and has been reasonably well enforced. In i877 it provided that saloons should be closed on election days, and in I879 it was further amended to require that they be closed on all holidays. On several occasions the latter provision has been disregarded in this city, as if by common consent, in Fourth of July celebrations, but as a rule it has been well obeyed, though causing probably more disaffection and annoyance among dealers than any other requirement of the law. In I873 the liquor dealers of the city formed a mutual protection association or league, of which Wm. Hake was President, D. M. Amberg Secretary and C. Kusterer Treasurer. August 2, i877, sixteen liquor dealers of the city met at the Morton House and organized a society under the name of "Protective Order of Liquor Dealers"' President, Wm. Hake; Secretary Sidney A. Hart; Treasurer, Samuel A. Walling. They announced their object to be associative and concerted action and vigilance for the benefit of their trade, and to ward against aggressive or unfriendly attacks, from whatever quarter they might come. They counseled obedience to the law, but deemed it harsh toward the traffic in liquors, and declared a purpose to labor in all legitimate ways to secure modifications in that behalf. 202 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. About this time, in the early part of T877, came the Red Ribbon and the Blue Ribbon temperance reforms, which drew many recruits. And in some one or more of its phases, ever since, the temperance agitation has been kept active; especially so in the winter and spring months of nearly every year. The Good Templars and the Women's Christian Temperance Unions have been notably zealous. At present the vitality and energy of prohibitory efforts seem committed to the hands of the women. Man may rule by physical strength, by force, by passion, or the sword, but, as Schiller has said: "Woman commands with a milder controlShe rules by enchantment the realms of the soul; As she glances around, in the light of her smile The war of the passions is hushed for awhile, And Discord, content from its fury to cease, Reposes entranced on the pillow of Peace." On some occasions boycotting of certain parties regarded as unfriendly to the "temperance reform" has been counseled. Generally, however, ascerbity of feeling has been kept within the control of reason. In July, 1884, a large number of members of temperance associations, gathered at a picnic, adopted a resolution to "boycott" certain firms and traders, for signing the petition of a saloon-keeper for a license. A little later, the Central Women's Christian Temperance Union rejected this resolution, and adopted another, which had been passed at the State convention of the Women's Christian Temperance Unions, to withhold their patronage from liquor dealers and their bondsmen, and from persons renting places where intoxicating drinks were sold. The discussions and reformatory efforts are somewhat spasmodic, yet they do not die out, and will probably continue to stir the hearts and exercise the minds of conscientious people for an indefinite period in the future. LATER CHANGES. Prior to I887 the State laws relating to liquor ran in two distinct lines-two separate statutes, including a number of amendments-one providing for taxing the liquor traffic and the other providing for its police regulation. The Legislature of I887 combined those two in a much more stringent act, providing for both tax and regulation, with severe penalties for the violation of the law. Some of its provisions have been con tested in the courts, but in the main this law is well observed in Grand Rapids and its vicinity. It being upon the statute books, its provisions in detail need not be mentioned here. Another act affecting this immediate vicinity, passed at the same session, prohibits the sale of liquors within one mile of the Michigan Soldiers' Home, also the selling or furnishing of spirituous or malt liquors to any inmate of the Home, except for medicinal purposes, and except when such inmate is on furlough and away from the city of Grand Rapids. An amendment to the constitution, prohibiting the manufacture, gift or sale of spirituous, malt or vinous liquors, and abrogating the right of property therein, was submitted to popular vote at the April election in I887, on which the vote of Kent county was: Yes, 6,642; No, 10,997. In the city the vote was 2, i8i for, and 7,057 against the amendment. It was defeated in the State by an adverse majority of 5,645 votes. A local option law passed by the Legislature of 1887 was pronounced unconstitutional by the State Supreme Court. THE TRA)DE IN lIQUORS. Through all the mutations of efforts for its restraint, the liquor traffic of the city appears to have thriven, and been much of the time as profitable to dealers, financially considered, as other trades and occupations. In the earlier days it was carried on in connection largely with other branches of mercantile business. Legislation has had the effect to make of it a separate and almost wholly distinct avocation. In the aggregate, for many years, a large amount of money has been invested in it. Under the present taxing system it pays large sums into the public treasury. It is vigorously policed and regulated, so that those engaged in are perhaps more closely under personal surveillance than are citizens in other occupations. In 1859, under the stress of the stringent prohibitory law of those days, with a population of less than 8,ooo, twenty-five saloons were reported in the city. In i888, with a population probably eight times as large, the number was I15. In i875 the City Directory enumerated twelve houses dealing in wines and liquors at wholesale. In I888 the same authority recorded only seven wholesale houses of that character. A report by the Board of Trade also gave TEMPERANCE AND LIQUORS. 203 seven as the number, using capital to the amount of $I50,000, with a product of half a million dollars in 1887, and giving employment to forty men, including traveling agents. BEER ANDI BREWERIES. John Pannell, English by nativity, came to Grand Rapids in i836. He was the first brewer here. He erected a small brewing house on the east side of Kent street, about 250 feet north of Lyon, by the base of Prospect Hill, and over a brook which came round the north end of that elevation. There he began making English hop beer. The original brewery, and that creek, years ago disappeared. At first a barrel or two at a brewing was as much as Mr. Pannell could find market for, but in the course of eight or ten years he could brew in much larger quantities and with greater frequency. In i847 he was making of it a fairly remunerative business. Then along came Christoph Kusterer, who had been reared a brewer in Germany, and began work west of the river, and soon afterward entered into partnership with Mr. Pannell. About I1849 Mr. Kusterer bought Mr. Pannell's stock in trade and manufacture, and removed the establishment to the corner of East Bridge and Ionia streets, where the Kusterer brewing works now stand. To Christoph Kusterer is accredited the first making of lager beer here; and the German experts at the business say it was not of a quality which they would boast of very much at the present day. But it found favor with those who had a taste for light malt liquors; and some of the older ones have been heard to wish that they could again sip the original beverage. Next came along the brothers Gottlieb, Gustav and Christian Christ, and added another to the lager beer making establishments, and the use and demand for the article increased rapidly. And just here is a coincidence. Ague and fever-the oldfashioned, bone shaking kind-prevailed here very largely when those German beer makers came. In I847 chills and shaking ague were terrors of malarially afflicted people, and sallow faces and feeble frames were familiar sights. In the eight years following came two experiences-a great growth in the habit of drinking lager beer, and the almost complete dying out of the shaking ague. It is not the province of the historian to moralize upon these facts, nor to attempt an explanation, but only to chronicle the coincidence. Gottlieb Christ went into the Bridge Street House, and his brothers began work with Mr. Kusterer, but soon purchased property on Ottawa between Bridge and Hastings streets, where they erected brewery buildings and cellars, and established a large business. Their buildings were completely wiped out by the great fire of July 13, 1873, and they were never able to rally from that disaster sufficiently to restore their business. By that fire they suffered a loss of nearly $50,ooo. They began to rebuild, but a complication of difficulties beset and finally overcame them. Theirs was a leader among the beer making houses while it stood. In i859 there was a brewery, a good brick structure, at the southeast corner of Fountain and Ransom streets, operated by J. H. Roberts, but it did not remain there very long. The building a few years later was destroyed by fire. Since I85o the beer brewing business in Grand Rapids has grown to very great proportions. Twenty-five years later (1875) it had reached an average annual production of i6,ooo barrels in this city; and in i877 the value of the aggregate production was estimated at $600,000. With capital investments aggregating to upward of $400,000, it gives employment to about I60 men, including those engaged in handling the products. An effort was made some twelve years ago to establish the making on a large scale of ale and porter, but the measure of success was not flattering. Twenty years ago there were four large beer breweries in operation; at the present time their number has doubled. The Kusterer Brewing Company's business was established in I85O by Christoph Kusterer. He lost his life in the disaster that overtook the steamer Alpena in October, i88o. Afterward, in May, i88i, the Kusterer Brewing Company was incorporated. It has had a very steadily successful career. It employs an average of about thirty men, using a capital of $Ioo,ooo, and its sales for 1887 amounted to $97,000. All the popular varieties of lager beer are manufactured by this company, and they ship largely to outside markets in addition to their home trade. Officers, i888-President, Philip Kusterer; Vice President Adolph Leitelt; Secretary and Treasurer, Charles (204 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRANI) RAPIDS. F. Kusterer. The company have a substantial brick factory, thoroughly equipped, occupying ioo feet front on Bridge and I40 on Ionia street. The Michigan Brewery at the corner of West Bridge and Indiana streets, was founded by Peter Weirich in I856, and managed by him until his death, upward of thirty years. It is now managed by the Peter Weirich Brewing Company (the members being heirs of the estate.) It has extensive cellar storage, and conducts a trade in bottled beer. The Union Brewery at 87 South Division street, was established in i862 by George Brandt-proprietors in i888, George Brandt & Co., (Elizabeth B. Brandt, George WV. Brandt and Julius R. Petersen). They have an investment of $35,000; output in I887, $60, ooo; giving employment to about a dozen men. Beer bottling is also carried on by these brewers. The Eagle Brewery at 50 Stocking street, was established in 1876, by Jacob Veit and Paul Rathman, its present proprietors. It employs from ten to twelve men, and uses a capital of $25,000. Other breweries are those of Tusch Brothers on Grandville avenue; H. A. Britt, West Division street; John Gessler & Co., Page street, and Adolph Goetz, Broadway and \Vest Leonard. RETAII, TRAFFIC IN I'EFR. The sale of beer and wines and alcoholic liquors at retail is carried on in upward of a hundred places in this town, popularly called saloons. Whether or not such modern use of the word saloon may be properly regarded as an illustration of "the surx ival of the fittest," is a question which may not here be discussed. These saloons give support to some five hundred or more people. A few in the trade, favorably situated to catch or invite custom, make it very profitable; the great majority only moderately or not at all remunerative beyond eking out a living. Some dealers in the old business streets have followed their occupation nearly a quarter of a century, Among those of long standing are Jerome Trowbridge on Monroe above lonia street, Christian Killinger on Crescent Avenue, and Charles Scheuffler on Canal street. Sales of lager beer by the glass have been very large for many years at the place of Peter Dressander, next the Arcade on Lyon street; also at the restaurant corner of Lyon and Kent, now kept by Henry Huber. At the corner of Ottawa and Bridge street, in a not very large building, a lively business in beer is (lone. At a number of these places kept by Germans, to see the lines of stalwart laboring men, a large proportion of them carrying dinner pails or baskets, stop and get an appetizer on the way home to supper, is a stiudy for a painter. They say it refreshes them wonderfully, when tired from a hard day's work. At the place of Julius Kleinwaechter, opposite the Bridge Street House, such a scene at the close of working hours is a familiar sight. With neighborly greetings and animated discussion of all topicsnews, work, politics, morals and religion -some five minutes are spent, while they sip a glass of beer (for the German seldom pours it dlown in the Yankee fashion), taking also a small piece of rye bread and cheese, and then they move on to the home and family. And thus it is at many other similar houses. Possibly this brief and imperfect description may serve as a text for some writer of the coming century. lIQ UORS Al WI OflESA l,E. The retail traffic in wines and liquors has always been carried on chiefly in connection with that in beer and other lighter beverages. There never was a distillery of any note in this part of Michigan. Some thirtyfive to forty years ago there were two or three small rectifying establishments in this town; but that business soon wilted under popular disfavor. In the village days, and ulp to the time of the enactment of a prohibitory law, a number of merchants sold alcoholic liquors by the barrel or in smaller quantities to suit customers; and in some stores, when whisky was but twenty-five cents a gallon, a cask of that or other liquor stood on tap at the rear, with a tumbler handy, and the patron making other purchases was invited to help himself to a drink. There were two or three small stores where liquor selling at wholsale was the principal business when the city was chartered and several years afterward. Under the operation of the Maine law that trade became temporarily merged with the drug traffic; but in a few years again came on in larger proportions than had been known before. L. H. Randall, Silas Duir TEMP'ER;\NCE AND LIQUOIRS. 20I) ham & Co., William Hake and othlers were wholesaling extensively, not long after the close of the wvar. In 1874 the number of wholesale dealers ha(l increase(l to lul)ward of a (lozen. Under the operation of the stringent, hightax law, which has stuperseded the Maine law, the number of wholesale liquor stores has decreased more than one-half. 1 llt the volume of the trade anmoulnts to a large factor in the mercantile business of thle city: exceedling half a million dollars annllally in the commercial value of the goods that they handle. Among the present wholesalers are 1). M. Amberg, Pearl street; J. H. Colleton, Ellsworth Avenue; \nVm. Hake, East Bridge Street; Nortlander Brothers, Canal; Kortlander & Grady, North Ionia, and A. Kennedy. North Waterloo. A newly established wholesale liquor hollse is that of Kortlander & MurIphy in the Livingston block, 174 and I76 Fulton street. A number of retailers also carry heavy stocks of wines and li(quQlors in l)bulk. CHAPTER XXIV. THE WATER SUPPLY. By nature this region about the Rapids of Grand river was abundantly supplied with the finest and healthiest of spring water. Except on the west side flats, there were few places where it did not come bubbling and sparkling from the bosom of Mother Earth. All along the bases of the hilly elevations, and well up their sides also, were springs of most excellent water; and on the lower levels it was necessary to dig but a few feet for an ample supply for the households of the early comers. But by nature there was no civilized community here, and hence no natural nor artificial foulness of civilization to defile water sources and courses. In the beginning the white settlers rejoiced over their luxuriant supply, and imagined that it would never prove deficient either in quantity or quality. The growth to a village and then to a city changed all that. Where at first every family had a fine spring almost at its door, the thickening of the population befouled the water and created the necessity for other and artificial supply. In the infancy of this settlement there was a large spring, from which came a rivulet large enough to run a turning establishment, half way ulp the hill north of East Bridge street-clear, cool and excellent for domestic use. Just a little southwest from where the Central school building stands, under the brow of the hill, was another, from which a brook ran down Fountain street. In i848 the latter, and a few years afterward the former, was turned into log pipes for the people "down town,' and both sources are still used in the works of the Grand Rapids Hydraulic Company, though at this day they constitute only a very small portion of its supply. But from this start grew the very comprehensive but not yet perfected system of water works now in use-or rather systems, for there are two; that of the Hydraulic Company being the older, started in i848, while that of the City Water Works was not fairly established until 1874. In the course of examinations for sources of water supply in the city and adjoining country, the elevations of a considerable number of bodies of water were ascertained, and in i886 the following statement of them was made by the City Engineer: Reservoir when full, 178 feet; Green Lake, 199; Reeds Lake and Fisk Lake, I4I; Church Lake, 167; Saddlebag or Powers Lake, 90o; Lamberton Creek (at river), i7; Lamberton Lake, 72.2; Button Lake, 85; Crooked Lake, I I4; Hydraulic Well (Penney's add.), 82.67. The base from which these elevations are calculated is low water at Fulton Street Bridge. GRAND RAPIll) HYD)RAUiIC COMPANV. In the fall of 1848 a number of gentlemen, of whom among the active workers were Canton Smith and Joseph J. Baxter, started the enterprise of supplying the most thickly settled portion of the then village with good spring water for domestic use. For that purpose they took the water from a large spring situated between Ransom and Bostwick streets, a few rods north of Fountain, from which flowed a lively creek down Fountain street. The pipes were the old fashioned pump logs-pine logs of aboult a foot in diameter, with three inch bore. The boring of the logs was done by Luciuls A. Thayer, who fitted an auger especially for that purpose, and operated it by water power in one of the factories above Bridge street between the canal and the river. The pointing and fitting of the logs was done by hand by a ship carpenter. A square curb made of two inch oak plank was stink at the spring. The trench in which the logs were laid was a ditch, at no point more than three feet in depth. The piping was completed that fall from the spring down Fountain street to Ionia, thence to the National Hotel on Mon GRAND RAPIDS HYDRAULIC COMPANY roe street. In the following year the pipes were extended to the foot of Monroe, when it was found that the company had as many customers as that spring would supply. Meantime application was made to the Legislature for an act of incorporation, which was passed April 2, I849, constituting George Coggeshall, Thompson Sinclair, Charles Shepard, Canton Smith, James M. Nelson, and their successors and assigns, a body corporate, to be known as "The President an( Directors of The Grand Rapids Hydraulic Company," with a capital of not to exceed $30,000. The purpose of the organization was to be (in the language of the charter) that of "conducting a plentiful supply of pure wholesomle water to said village, for the use of the inhabitants of said village, and to supply reservoirs for extinguishing fires." The charter provided that the supply should "be obtained from the springs of water in and about said village, from Coldbrook, from the lake or lakes from which it has its source, or either of them, and from no other source." This charter was very comprehensive in the powers which it granted to the company, giving the right to enter upon and use streets, lands and springs in and about the village, as might be re(quisite for its legitimate work, and moreover its franchises were given substantially in perpetuity. This latter point was determined in 1887 through a decision of the Superior Court, affirmed by the State Supreme Court, in a suit wherein the city attempted to restrain and enjoin the Grand Rapids Hydraulic Company from further laying of water pipes within the city. The decree of the courts was in favor of the Hydraulic Company. The Hydraulic Company's charter was drawn by Solomon L. Withey, who obtained some valuable hints for its ground work from the famous charter of the Manhattan Company of New York. Mr. Withey became a member of the company, and its first meeting was held June 20, i849, at which time its organization was completed by the election of officers. Canton Smith was its first President, and its stock books were opened for subscription June 22, I849. Having reached the limit of its supply, while the demand was steadily increasing, the Company began to look about for more water. Tills they obtained from springs a little south of Wealthy Avenue and east of Jefferson, laying logs from that locality to Fulton street, and thence toward the river. They then had a fairly adequate supply for the residents along their lines, and that portion of the then business part of the town west of Division and south of Pearl street. But the city continued to grow, while the springs did not, and more water must be had. The company went still further south and gathered the outflow from several springs on what is called the "Penney eighty." About 1854 Christoph Kusterer and John Mangold began the use of the large spring between Bridge and Hastings, a little east of Ottawa street, as a source of water supply for domestic use. Previously, at a very early day, a portion of the stream from that spring had been carried down Bridge street to a watering trough in front of the Bridge Street House, which for years made an excellent watering place for horses. In the summer of i 855 the Council gave permission to the proprietors of the Bridge Street House and Western Hotel, to lay pipes from the spring mentioned for their own use. Kusterer & Mangold, under a franchise obtained in 1859 from the Council, after having constructed a reservoir in which they collected the waters from this and other contiguous springs, laid pump logs down Bridge street and through Kent alley to Lyon street; also to and along by the buildings on the west side of Canal street, as far south as Huron, and down Canal street to near Pearl, giving to the residents thus reached a fair supply of excellent water for domestic use. Neither they nor the Hydraulic Company had sufficient pressure to carry water much above the second floors of buildings even on the lower levels. Only wooden pipes or logs were used until 1857, when upon the first paving of Monroe street, the Hydraulic Company laid a small iron main down that thoroughfare. In I864 Amos Roberts, Warren P. Mills, James Lyman and Joseph Penney became stockholders in the Grand Rapids Hydraulic Company. The total stock subscription October 29 of that year, was $24,800. In 1870 the water rights of the Kusterer & Mangold company were by mutual arrangement merged in those of the Hydraulic Company. In I872 the company undertook the construction of a deep reservoir upon ground purchased of Mr. Penney toward the 208 8HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAIDII)S. southeastern part of the city, in the hope of greatly increasing its supply. This was a large brick curb with a cast-iron shoe at the bottom, sunk to a depth of about thirty feet. The water from that source is of excellent quality, and though not so abundant in (quantity as the company had hoped, it enabled them to largely extend their distribution. Not much addition was made to their water resources until i886, when they procured a site near the east bank of the river about three-fourths of a mile north of the city, where they sank a reservoir or well, and have established a pumping house station. The well curb is of brick, twenty feet in diameter, and about the same depth, and coated with cement outside and in, so that the inflow is atthe bottom. It is fed by spring water from the higher lands adjacent, east, northeast and southeast, where are some fine springs and spring brooks. Their pump house is supplied with one compound and one high pressure engine, and two boilers, five feet in diameter and sixteen feet long; four-inch flues, sixty-four in each. Their pumping capacity is estimated at 3,000,000 gallons daily. Warren P. Mills, from 1864 up to the time of his death in i868, was collector and principal business manager of the company. Since that time Robert I. Shoemaker has been Superintendent of the pipe system. The Grand Rapids Hydraulic Company have not increased, technically, their original capital stock of $30,ooo, but have issued stock certificates to a large amount, for enlarging and improving their works. Up to the end of i888 they had laid about fifteen miles of iron mains, from six to twelve inches in diameter, and displaced all but three or four miles of the old wood and small pipes. They have also erected at the corner of Clinton and Newberry streets a stand pipe, I 00o feet high and 20 feet in diameter. This is made of steel boiler plate, half an inch thick at the base and a quarter of an inch thick at the top. The officers of the company are, Moses R. Crow, President; John E. More, Vice President and Secretary; David A. Crow, Treasurer, and Robert I. Shoemaker, Superintendent. Robert I. Shoemaker is a native of German Flats; Herkimer county, N. Y., born February 12, 1812. He came to Grand Rapids in April, 1838; was a carpenter and joiner, worked many years at that trade, and has been a busy man all his life. He officiated as bell ringer and as sexton several years in the latter part of the village and early part of the city period. He has seen nearly all there was and is of Grand Rapids, and has not quit work. 'I'HE C(1Ti WNAl R WOV RKS. Prior to 1874 the main reliance of the city for water, for either domestic or public use, was upon the Grand Rapids Hydraulic Company's works. That company's system was chiefly for the sulpply of water to private parties-for residences, stores and other buildings. Supply for city uses procured from that source was small, although many reservoirs at street corners were fed therefrom. It was of much benefit, but inadequate for great emergencies; in case of fire the pressure furnished was not sufficient to carry large (luantities much above the ground floors of buildlings. Soon after two or three disastrous fires, in 1870, the citizens began to discuss seriously the necessity of an ample water supply, within the ownership and under the full control of the city. At a public meeting a resolution was adopted to the effect that, "We need a better water supply, and are able to have it." In the spring of 1871, a Council committee was appointed to investigate and report as to sources of supply, and plan of distribution. J. L. Pillsbury, a hydraulic engineer of Boston, was called, and in company with our resident engineers, made an examination of the springs, streams and lakes, in and near the city. His report was substantially in favor of using Reeds Lake, and of a system of iron pipes for the distribution. The discllssion was continued without arriving at a definite decision for two or three years. In the spring of 1873, Peter Hogan, of Albany, N. Y., was called in, and another examination made. Mr. Hogan, in an elaborate report, recommended the construction of a reservoir in the hill, the use of cemented wrought iron pipes, and the utilization of the waters of Carrier Creek, Coldbrook and Lamberton Creek, as the necessities of the city mlight require. No immediate steps were taken, but by the disastrous fire of July 13, in that year, north of 13ridge street, the people were again aroused to the great need of decisive action. A Board of Public \Vorks had been created THE CITY WATER WORKS. ~09 for the city, by an act passed in March, 1873, under whose control the subject of water supply and the construction of the necessary works was placed, after a general plan should have been submitted to the Council. The Board in July submitted the plan of Mr. Hogan, with the recommendation that $250,000 be raised for that purpose, which was submitted tO popular vote and adopted. The financial panic of that year delayed the work somewhat, but pipes were purchased, and before the first of December about two miles were laid down in Bridge, Canal and Monroe streets, and connected with a small reservoir belonging to C. C. Comstock, on the brow of the hill, near Newberry street. Thus a temporary supply of water was obtained, adding considerably to the means for extinguishing fires. In the spring of I874 work was resumed, and in that year about eleven miles of the banded wood pipe known as the Wyckoff patent pipe was laid. The site for a reservoir, comprising about five and one half acres, was purchased, and the reservoir constructed, at a total cost of $54,082.71. A site for the pumping house, on the bank of the river at the mouth of Coldbrook, was also purchased, and the building erected that year. This ground includes five lots, and has 250 feet front on Canal by i86 feet on Coldbrook street. The choice of this site gave, in addition to the control of the water in the creeks above mentioned, access to Grand.River, rendering it certain that in no event would the city ever be short of water, as least as good as the river would afford. The works, as constructed, combine the reservoir and direct pressure systems; the pumps working directly into the mains, all surplus water passing into the reservoir, which is only drawn upon when the punmps are not running, or in case of emlergency. The reservoir is on top of the bluff, at the head of Livingston and Mason streets, occupying an area of three and one-fourth acres. It was built by T C. Brooks and A. C. Sekell, contractors, under the superintendence of Assistant Engineer William Thornton. The pumping house, erected at the mouth of Coldbrook Creek. is cruciform, 75 by 97 feet in extreme dimensions, and, except a two-story front, one story high. The chimney is ioo feet high. It rests upon solid rock. Robert Hilton and Robert 15 Davidson were the contractors. The original pumping engines were designed by Demetrius Turner, and constructed by Butterworth & Lowe, of Grand Rapids. The river water being considered unfit for use in summer, resort was had to Coldbrook and Carrier Creeks, near their junction, about 1,900oo feet east of the pumping works. The distribution at first included about twelve miles of pipe-about two miles being of cast iron, and the rest of wood (Wyckoff patent). The iron pipe was laid by Charles Peterson, and the Wyckoff pipe by T. B. Farrington and H. A. Branch. The reservoir pressure is sufficient to throw water over any building on the lower levels of the city. Work done in I874 on the city water works cost upward of $260,000, of which about $i i8, ooo was for the pipe system. A published statement showed at the end of that year IO,389 feet of iron pipe laid, and 56,262 feet of Wyckoff pipe-about I2.7 miles in all. This Wyckoff wood pipe was made by turning from the logs the outside sapwood, then boring out the center to the requisite sizes, which varied from four to sixteen inches. The pipe was then wound spirally with strong hoop iron, three thicknesses, at a distance of about three inches between coils, and over all was put a coat of liqlluefied asphalt, rendering it impervious to water and air. These pipes were kept in use about fourteen years, doing good service under strong pressure. The work during the year I875, in addition to laying of pipes in the streets, included a pipe across the river for supplying the west side, and the purchase of ground for, and the construction of a settling basin, the latter being located on Coldbrook, just \ WATI'' \\'O)RKS SETT'I'E I.NG; HBASIN A'I' '(fOlI}ROOK. above the crossing of the railroad track, where it is joined by Carrier Creek. On the first of January, 1876, the city had 99,668 feet of water mains laid. Attached to these 210 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. were I 99 public and several private hydrants, and 107 stop valves. The engineer estimated the cost of the works up to that time at about $341,000. During I876, about three and a half miles of water mains were added (I7,766 lineal feet), and thirty-six hydrants. The amount expended upon the works that year was $29,328. In April, i878, City Surveyor Sekell, made a test trial of the pumping engine at the water -works. The average steam pressure during the trial was 34 pounds. Water was taken directly from the twenty-inch supply main leading from the settling basin. The test showed a result of 25,483,915 pounds raised one foot for every hundred pounds of wood, or about two and a half times that amount for every hundred pounds of coal. The pump delivery was 97 82 gallons at each revolution, the piston having a stroke of six feet. A duplicate pumping machine was purchased which cost $ I I, 200, From i878 onward for several years very little progress was made in improving the city wat( r works, the chief labor and outlay being for their care and preservation. September 2, i88o, after a heavy fall of rain, occurred a serious disaster to the force-main, which is the pipe leading from the pumping house to the reservoir. A portion of the end leading tip the sand hill, was undermined, only a few rods below the reservoir, through the washing out of the sand by the storm, and between 300o and 400 feet of the main was carried out. This was of the Wyckoff pipe, i6 inches in diameter; thus broken up into its original sections of eight or ten feet in length. In repairing, this was replaced with iron pipe. Various efforts were made to obtain funds to proclure an increase of water supply. A proposition submitted for a loan of $ioo,ooo, July 24, I883, was defeated by a majority of 430 votes against it. Another for $300,000, July 7, I885, was defeated by an adverse majority of 515 votes. April 5, i886, a proposition for a loan of $75,000, was likewise defeated. December I4, i886, a proposition for a loan of $5oo,I00 met with 1,0Io4 adverse majority. Still another effort for a loan of $250,000, was voted down, December 6, I887, the majority against it being i,095. But in the following year there came a great change in the public mind, and on the 7th of August, i888, the electors of the city voted-yeas 2,799; nays, 946-in favor of procuring by loan $150,000 to extend the mains and improve the water supply. Bonds to that amount were issued, and from this sale $168,248.35 was realized. Contract was made for 31 miles of pipe, and 13 ililes were laid before the end of i888. Other improvements made to the water system included a filtering crib in the center of the river, with a pipe from the crib to the pumping-house well; also a new boiler-house. It was estimated that the sum in hand would be sufficient to extend the supply mains to an aggregate of 59 miles with 445 hydrants attached. A very important item in the water works system is the cast iron main, I6 inches in diameter and 600 feet long, laid across the river in i886, near the pumping station. This takes the place of an earlier and smaller one which had become valueless. The Legislature at the session of I889 passed an act authorizing the city to borrow a sum not exceeding $80,ooo, issuing bonds therefor, to substitute iron pipe for the Wyckoff wooden pipe, for the erection of a standpipe, and for other improvements of the water works system. In accordance with a vote of the Common Council, bonds to the amount of $8o,00ooo were issued, which were sold at a premium, and the proceeds applied as designated in the act-the more important improvements being the replacing of the wood pipe with iron, the extension of CITY WATER WORKS RESERV()IR AN) STANI) PIP}.. the mains, the erection of a standpipe, and the construction of the filtering beds in the channel of Grand River nearly opposite the pumping house. The later plans and work involve the abandonment, substantially, of Coldbrook and Carrier creeks, as sources of supply, the great growth of the city in that THE CITY WATER WORKS-ARTESIAN WVELLS. 211 direction having too much contaminated their waters; and with them the settling basin also goes out of the use for which it was made. The status of the City Water Works system, as represented by F. A. Twamley, Secretary of the Board of Public Works, in July, 1889, was substantially as follows: Water supply: Grand river through three gravel filtering beds, built in excavations in solid rock in center of the river, and below the river bottom. Sizes of filter beds: No. i, 8 by io feet; No. 2, 6 by 104 feet; No. 3, 40 by 460 feet, with galleries below and conduit 3 by 3 feet in size from galleries to pump well on bank of river. Pumping to reservoir for low service; pumping to standpipe for high service. Pumping machinery: Daily capacity, 12,000,000 gallons. For low service, horizontal direct acting condensing pump with 33 inch steam and 20 inch water cylinder of 72 inch stroke, made by Eagle Iron Works, Detroit, capacity 5,000,000 gallons. One horizontal direct acting condensing pump with 33 inch steam and 15 inch water cylinder of 72 inch stroke, made by Butterworth & Lowe, Grand Rapids, capacity 3,000,000 gallons. High service: One duplex compound condensing pump with i8S inch and 30 inch steam, and i6 inch water cylinder, 24 inch stroke, made by Smith, Vaile & Co., Dayton, Ohio, capacity 2,500,000 gallons. One Gordon and Maxwell duplex high pressure condensing pump with 20 inch steam cylinders and 12 inch water cylinders, i8 inch stroke, to be used as an auxiliary pump, daily capacity I,500,000 gallons. Pumping machinery and force mains of high and low pressure interchangeable. Distributing reservoir: Capacity 6,ooo,ooo gallons. In excavation and embankment i96 feet in diameter at the bottom, 271 feet at the top; twenty-five feet deep, with twenty feet of water. The bank is mostly of sand, with puddle in the center along the natural surface, and over the bottom. The bank is twelve feet wide on top with an inner slope of one and a half to one, and an outer of two to one. The inner slope is paved with one foot of cobble stones laid on one foot of concrete, except the upper two feet of the slope, which has six inches of cobbles set in gravel. The bottom has an eight-inch cobble stone pavement on eight inches of concrete. The flow line is 177 feet above the river. The reservoir has never leaked. The sixteen-inch force main and twentyinch effluent pipe are carried under the bank, enclosed in masonry piers. The force main ends in a mass of masonry, and the effluent pipe begins in a small masonry well, both at the foot of the inner slope. Standpipe: Of iron, capacity 397,000 gallons; thirty feet in diameter and seventy-five feet high, on a substantial masonry foundation. Distribution: Mains 59 miles in length. All cast iron except four miles of wood, which are shortly to be relaid with cast iron. Two cast iron submerged mains cross the river, 12 and i6 inches in size. Services-lead. Taps-2,568. Meters-Worthington, Crown, Ball & Fitts duplex, 400. Hydrants-Mathews, Galvin Mathews, Ludlow, and Lowry, 604. Valves-Galvin & Eddy, 412. Average consumption-2,716,736 gallons daily. Pressure-70 pounds low service, 35 pounds high service. Cost of entire works, $715,885.52. Debt, $612,ooo; $382,ooo at 8 per cent., and $230,000 at 5 per cent. Annual operating expense, $22,084.44. Annual revenue, $41,838.66. No revenue from the city. ARTESIAN WELILS. Besides the eight deep wells sunk in this immediate vicinity in the efforts to establish the manufacture of salt, a considerable number have been bored to procure water for domestic and factory uses. In most of these flowing veins have been struck, at depths varying between 150 and 325 feet, with pressure sufficient to elevate the water a considerable distance above the ground; in some cases to a height of upward of 30 feet in localities not far above the river level. The Butterworth well, started to procure salt, was subsequently used for a time to furnish medicinal baths. These were abandoned, and the water is running to waste, except that it is frequently partaken of by persons living or working in the vicinity, who deem it a healthful beverage for occasional use. In the spring of i873, William T. Powers put down a well in the Arcade tunder his opera house, and at a depth of 304 feet, procured a fine flowing stream. He put in tubing and constructed a fountain, where thousands of passers by take refreshing dratights daily. An analysis of the water shows it free from organic matter, and in that sense perfectly pure, while it carries about 157 grains to the gallon of mineral agents in solution, and is deemed excellent for its medicinal properties. Its temperature is agreeable, and its taste not unpleasant. At the Phoenix furniture factory, a well was stink in the spring of I883. Here was produced a stream flowing about 2,000 barrels daily, with a pressure furnishing a head of about 38 feet. Its depth is i68 feet. The water is useful for different purposes about the factory, and is deemed good for drinking, having, a slight mineral taste. Two years later, another well was bored, on South Front street at Wallin's Tannery. This went down 151 feet, and from it the water flowed to a height of 30 feet, clear, pure and cold. Soon afterward a well was drilled at the Eagle Hotel, from which water pronounced good as a beverage came up in abundance. In i886, in the Widdicomb Block, a bore 210 feet deep struck appar 212 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND IAITDS. ently the same vein that was reached at the Eagle Hotel. Other artesian wells have been made-at Weirich's Bt ewery, at the H ouseman Block, at the Gas Company's works, at the County Jail, and at Veit and Rathman's brewery. The latter was tested for making beer, but the water was found unfit for that use. A well sunk in the Eagle printing office building, and stopped in solid rock at a depth of only 30 feet, furnished pure, limpid, soft water, flowing nearly to the surface of the ground, which, utilized by pumping, was found excellent for making steam, leaving no incrustations on the boiler, and healthful as a beverage. For use in the building, the water pumped from this well averages about 200 barrels daily. In i888 was put down a well by the northeast corner of the Hermitage block, at the junction of Canal and Bridge streets, from which the water came up in a rapid current from a depth of 323 feet, through a six inch tube, and with pressure sufficient to carry it several feet above the ground. This water is strongly impregnated with mineral substances, acids and carbonates. It is not palatable for drinking, yet is thought to possess some medicinal qualities, and is useful for several other purposes, though not good for the laundry. This well cost $1,194.40. The flow at first was at the rate of I6o gallons per minute, or about 7,432 barrels daily, and there appears to be no sensible diminution. January 15, 1887, a company was organized in this city with the avowed purpose, as one of them expressed it, of "going for salt, coal, petroleum, gas or China." In other words, their object was to sink an experimental test well, to ascertain the character of the geological structure underlying the town, and to determine the question whether or not oil, inflammable gas, salt, coal or other valuable substance could be found available for profitable use or manufacture. They started with the intention of putting the well down 3,000 feet, or reach Trenton rock, if necessary to the accomplishment of their object. Upward of fifty prominent business citizens invested in stock of this association, of which the capital was placed at $o0,00ooo. The following directors were chosen: Freeman Godfrey, John L. Shaw, William T. Powers, Robert B. Woodcock, Adolph Leitelt, William Widdicomb, and James K. Johnston-President, Freeman Godfrey; Vice President, J. L. Shaw; Secretary and Treasurer, WTilliam WViddicomb. The contract for sinking the well was let to Noble & Co., who at once entered upon the work. At the depth of 240 feet there was a flow of fresh water. At 452 feet the water was cased off. From that down to 1,205 feet the drilling was mostly dry and through hard strata. Then came sand rock with a flow of strong salt water. At 1,500 feet there were traces of oil and gas. The flow increased until at 2,200 feet it burned at the mouth of the well, with a bluish flame four feet in length; and the quantity of gas continued to increase until strong salt water came in at about 2,220 feet and drowned it out. At 2,300 feet boring was suspended and the well cased with 4l, inch tube, internal diameter. After this the drilling was contined to 2,340 and there stopped, the bore having become clogged, leaving the detached drill at or near the bottom. This well was sunk at a point near where Godfrey Avenue comes to the railroad track. It is commonly called the Godfrey well, or the "Deep Well." Freeman Godfrey, who kept a close record of the borings, and took much interest in studying the geological features, says that if the experiment shall ever be renewed, he would advise as follows: Drill a hole i o inches in diameter to the depth of 440 feet, and at that point case the water off by tubing. Drill then to about 1,550 feet from the top, to the black shale, and case with a tube 55/8 inches inside diameter. Then go to the Clinton shale (estimated at 2,800 feet), and case again from the top with -tube 44 inches diameter. Continue the boring with four-inch bore to the Trenton rock, which is gas bearing (estimated total depth 3,700 feet, and penetrate that rock about 30 feet. This he thinks will sufficiently test the gas-bearing strata of the Trenton rock, and he fully believes that the work would be richly successfu l. SEWERAGE. The original charter of the city invested the Common Council with "full power and authority to construct, repair and preserve sewers and drains." There was at the time abundant need of such work, but the city did not fully wake up to a realization of that fact during the first three or four years. SEWARAGE-NUMBER OF MIIES. 12 13 The work was begun sparingly and economically. Some of the early sewers consisted simply of lines of box pipes made of plank, put together. in square form, and of various inside dimensions from six to twelve inches. 3But about I855, when grading began in earnest, more permanent materials for sewering, and more systematic methods, were found necessary. The first brick sewer designed to be permanent was laid down in Monroe street when that thoroughfare was paved with cobblestone in 1856, previous to which time efforts at drainage had been limited mostly to the wooden pipes, open ditches, and cheaply constructed culverts at the places where spring rivulets crossed the streets. Short sewers or drains were put in about I857 at the foot of Canal and Bridge streets and Crescent Avenue, and one of greater length from Washington street toward the river. The work proceeded in a desultory manner, without much system, here and there on both sides of the river. until about I865. In the early part of that year, what was called a city grade bench was established. It was made of a large granite boulder, appropriately marked and sunk in the ground at the southwest corner of the triangular park in which stands the Soldiers' Monument. This was adopted as a starting point from which to establish grades, and thereafter the fixing of grades of sewers, as well as streets east of the river, was determined with reference thereto. Thus was established a general uniformity of descent and flowage, as near as might be, through these conduits. The slopes of the east part of the city are such as to make this system of drainage most excellent and wellnigh perfect. The trunk sewers made since that date from the vicinity of Washington and Jefferson, and in Fulton, Monroe, Foun tain and Ionia, Crescent Avenue, Bridge, the alley between Canal and Kent, and also in South Division street, all constructed of brick, are quite large and expensive. They are laid at a depth sufficient for the drainage of buildings, cellars and basements adjacent, and a small fee is exacted of the property holder for each connection with a sewer. On the west side also are several large condllits of considerable length, especially that in W\est Bridge street, and the main trunk coming down from the northward across Bridge street a little east of the railroad track and curving to the river below, where formerly ran a brook. At the west line of the city is a flowage of considerable volume through a large open ditch, going out southward, which will some day need transformation into a covered sewer. Being so nearly level, the outflow of drainage on that side is rather sluggish; yet, the conditions considered, the sewerage is generally good and efficient. Considerable difficulty has been encountered in the matter of the disposal of sewerage, or its discharge into the river. From the foot of Lyon street down to near the steamboat landing, a large, arched culvert receives the contents of several trunk sewers, and conducts them below. Yet there has been great complaint of the offensive odors arising from the comparatively still water into which they discharge, below the rapids. To remedy this, will require sometime a large outlay. The aggregate length of the sewers in I888, is given as follows: MILES. B rick sewers............................. 7.486 Glazed pipe sewers................ 22.690 Cement pipe sewers........................480 W ood sewers............................. I.853 Iron pipe in river................................i6o Total................ 42.669 CHAPTER XXV. LIGHTS AND ELECTRICITY. GAS LIG;HTING. The Grand Rapids Gas Light Company was incorporated in i857 under the general law of the State, with the following hoard of officers: President, Francis B. Gilbert; Secretary and Treasurer, Henry Martin; Directors, Npyes L. Avery, George Kendall and Charles C. Rood: Superintendent, Thomas Smith. The office of Secretary and Treasurer has been held since 1859 by Thomas D. Gilbert. N. L. Avery has been the President since I885, and in that year Lemuel D. Putnam was chosen a Director. Ground was broken for the gas works August 12, i857, on the corner of Ottawa and Ferry streets; the retort house and purifying rooms were completed November 14, I857, on which date gaslight was furnished to the denizens of Grand Rapids for the first time. From the old records of the company it appears that George Lovett, corner of Canal and Pearl streets. was its pioneer customer. On that evening of November I4, 1857, a number of stores on Monroe street were lighted with gas, and that of John Kendall & Co., in the Taylor & Barns block on Canal street, was among the first illuminated in the show windows. P. J. G. Hodenpyl and John Terhune, Jr., on Monroe street, had their names arranged in small gas jets across their store fronts, which attracted much attention and admiration from passers by. The city at once availed itself of the new facility for lighting, and about twenty street lamps were soon erected; the first lamp-post used being presented to the city by Francis B. Gilbert, President of the company, and placed on the corner of Canal and Pearl streets. The first street service was by main pipes laid from the works on Ferry, through Waterloo, Monroe and Canal streets. During the first year the company laid about four miles of mains, and furnished gas to about one hundred consumers. The original gas works were shut down and abandoned for the new July 21, I886, having been in continuous operation for 28 years, 8 months and 7 days; the closing entry in the old books by Superintendent Thomas Smith being: "Good bye, Old Faithful Friend; you have cheered and lighted up the pathway of many a weary pilgrim through the years of your existence. Well done, good and faithful servant." The new works, located on the corner of Oakland and Wealthy Avenue, occupying nearly six acres of land, were commenced in September, 1884, and completed in October of the following year, giving increased facilities for furnishing light. The old site was sold to Leonard and Sons, and the G. R. & I. R. R. Company. The West Side was first served with gas in March, I869, by pipes laid across Pearl street bridge. The progress made in the use of gas by the citizens may be estimated by the growth of these works from one bench of three retorts in i857, with tanks for the storage of about 25,000 cubic feet, and giving employment to but few men, four miles of main pipe and less than one hundred consumers, to a plant with a retort house of sixteen benches of six each, or ninety-six retorts, with a productive capacity equal to seven hundred thousand feet per (lay of twenty-four hours. From the retorts to the gas holder i6 inch pipes only are used. The power being supplied by two twenty-five horse power engines, the steam from the boil ers, conducted to every portion of the works, keeps an even and healthy temperature throughout. The immense coal sheds have a capacity of holding about two hundred car loads of coal, most of which is from the rich mines of the Youghiogeney Valley near Pittsburgh, Pa., and in the coke sheds may be stored eighteen thousand bushels of coke. From the small beginning of thirty years ago there are now over forty miles of street mains, with about two thousand consumers, ELECTRIC LIGHTS AND POWER. 215 and while the city has always been very conservative, over four hundred street lamps are in use. The works throughout have been built with a view to the increase of the city, and an increased demand for gas. Giving employment to some forty persons, they can hold their own with any similar industry in the country. Officers (i889)President, Noyes L. Avery; Secretary and Treasurer, Thomas D. Gilbert; Superintendent, Thomas Smith; Assistant Superintendent, William S. McKay. In i888 the company laid about five miles of pipe main, and made preparation for five miles more in I889. The use of gas for heating as well as lighting has largely increased in recent years, and reductions in its cost have resulted in a steadily increased demand. The company reorganized July 3, 1889, with capital stock increased to $i,ooo,ooo, and includes in its objects the generation of electricity as well as gas for lighting ard heating, and for motive power. THOMAS SMITH was a native of Scotland, born at Alloa in I820. After reaching manhood he became interested in gas man pany's works in this city, and held the position of Superintendent until his deathupward of thirty years. He was the first President of the St. Andrew Society, and filled the same position several years in the Burns Club here. He also served as Alderman of the First Ward in the Common Council from 1869 to I875. Mr. Smith was a man of liberal spirit, kind heart, pleasing address, and thorough honesty. In Scotland, in I85o, he married Ann Robertson. He died March 6, i889, leaving a wife and two children. Grand Rapids has had few, if any, worthier citizens. ELECTRIC LIGHTS AND POWER. As in the natural march of civilization and the progress of invention, the tallow dip and whale oil of our grandfathers gave way to the lard oil of our fathers, and it in turn was superseded by gas and kerosene as a means of illumination, the electric light of to-day is rapidly supplanting those, especially in large towns. The Grand Rapids Electric Light and Power Company, the first of its kind in this city, was organized March 22, i88o, with a capital stock of $ioo,ooo, the incorporators being Wm. T. Powers, Wm. H. Powers, A. B. Watson, James Blair, Henry Spring, John L. Shaw, Thos. M. Peck, and Sluman S. Bailey. The company purchased its first dynamo (a sixteen-light Brush) and the necessary lamps and line wire, and commenced operations in July, i880, placing the dynamo in the Wolverine Chair Company's factory at the corner of Pearl and Front streets, and renting water power to propel it. The lights were first exhibited July 24, i88o, in Sweet's Hotel, the clothing store of E. S. Pierce, Spring & Company's Dry Goods Store, A. Preusser's Jewelry Store, Mills & Lacey's Drug Store, Star Clothing House, and Powers' Opera House. The business, increasing steadily from the start, soon required more apparatus and power, and in September of the same year the plant was removed to the saw mill building at the lower end of the West Side canal, and another and larger dynamo added, until in the summer of i88i land and water power were purchased and permanent buildings erected adjoining the leased property. The company put in large water wheels, and duplicated them with steam power, to provide for constant running in case of the failure of 'I'I OAIAS SAMI l. ufacture, and for some years was superintendent of gas works in his native country. Coming to America, he was employed in constructing gas works in Adrian in I855, and at Kalamazoo the following year. Removing then to Grand Rapids, he was immediately given charge of the gas com 1 (6 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. water power from any cause. In August, I88I, the city contracted with the company to, furnish twelve street lights on Monroe and Canal streets. These were placed on iron posts at the street corners, and soon gave proof of their effectiveness for street lighting. From time to time the city has increased the number of these lights, until in August, i888, the company were furnishing one hundred and ten arc lights, which were suspended over the center of the street from cables attached to the tops of poles planted at opposite corners diagonally across intersecting streets. The company's plant consists of water and steam power combined to the extent of five hundred and twenty-five horse power, and twenty-three dynamos sufficient to supply four hundred and fifty arc lights of two thousand candle power each, and one thousand incandescent lights of sixteen candle power each. They have in use about two hundred and fifty arc and five hundred incandescent lights; besides a number of electric motors that are furnishing mechanical power during the day time. About forty-five miles of copper wire is in use for distributing the electric current, the lines covering a distance of over fifty miles of streets. In I882 H. D. Wallen, Jr., started an electric plant at the Michigan Iron Works, and organized a stock conipany, Michigan Iron Works Electric Light and Power Company, which operated in competition with the Grand Rapids Electric Light and Power Company for about two years, after which the machinery and appliances were purchased by the latter company, and a portion of them utilized in its plant. This company have done a fairly lucrative business ever since their organization, fturnishing lights at cheaper rates than would have been possible had they been forced to use steam power only. The company have secured several valuable patents on electric lighting apparatus, among which is the Thomas Lamp; said to be one of the best arc lamps in use, which they manufacture at their works. Officers and DirectorsWm. T. Powers (President); \Wm. H. Powers (Secretary and Treasurer); James Blair, John L. Shaw, James W. Converse and Henry Spring. The company employ an average of fifteen men, with a monthly payroll of about eleven hundred dollars. The Edison Light and Fuel Company of Grand Rapids, was organized December 30, i886, with an authorized capital stock of $200,000, and a lot on the corner of Fulton and Calder streets, Ioo00x170 feet, purchased for the erection of their Central Station. Work on the streets had but just begun when a temporary injunction was issued from the United States Court at the instance of the company already occupying the field, and claiming exclusive privileges by virtue of an ordinance of the City Council prior to that under which the Edison Company were acting. The case was finally decided January 2, I888, in favor of the Edison Company, and work was resumed by them. At this time the company are in very successful operation. Their central station is of stone and brick; all the engines, boilers and dynamos resting upon solid masonry. They hAve in use eleven miles of line; and have placed underground some 30,000 feet of heavy copper feeders. In the plant are four boilers, each of iio horsepower capacity, three engines and six dynamos, capable of feeding 4,00o electric lamps simultaneously. They have buildings wired to the amount of ulpward of 3,000 incandescent lamps. This an incandescent plant only, for supplying interior lighting and power. The Sprague electric motor is used. An important part of the work is that of furnishing mechanical power for running printing presses, coffee and spice mills, sewing machines and other light machinery. The power is transmitted by the same wires that supply light, and in any amount tip to fifty-horse power. The officers of the company (i889) are: Directors-Daniel McCoy, J. W. Barnett, Julius Houseman, J. A. Covode and W\. R. Shelby, of Grand Rapids; and E. W\. Voigt, C. P. Gilbert, John R. Markle and Samulel R. Mumford, of Detroit; President, Daniel McCoy; Vice President, C. P. Gilbert; Superintendent, Arthur F. Walker. T I. i G( RA Pl-W IES RN UNION. The first wire of the Western Union Telegrah Company was strung froin Detroit over the line of what is now the Detroit, Grand Haven and Milwaukee Railroad, in November, 1858. Before that time any important messages for Grand Rapids were sent from Kalamazoo by stage or special messenger. The first telegraph office in Grand Rapids was opened by the \Vestern Union Telegraph Company the same year — - G. R. & I. TELEGRAPH-POSTAL AND UNITED LINES. 217 E. D. Benedict, manager. The total office receipts in December, i86i, were $146.15; Mr.. Benedict being the only operator, and sending 329 messages, with only one set of instruments, the old paper register. The business of the office for June, i888, shows an increase to about $3,000 per month, with an average of 25,000 messages. The employes increased in the same time to one manager and seven operators, four clerks, ten messengers, and one line repairer, with a monthly pay-roll of about $1,500. The instruments in use at the latter date were: One set of quadruplex, with capacity for working four wires; one set of repeaters, and thirteen sets of common instruments, to operate which requires eight hundred cells of battery. The wires in use are three over the L. S. &. M. S. R. R. to Chicago; one to Lacrosse, Ind., over the C. & W. M.; one to Chicago over the C. & \V. M; one to Detroit viza Kalamazoo, over the L. S. & M. S. and Mich. Central; one to Jackson over the Mich. Central; one to Detroit over the Mich. Central; two over the D., G. H. & M. to Detroit; one to Detroit via Owosso and Lansing; one from Baldwin to Muskegon via Grand Rapids and Holland; two to Muskegon via D., G. H. & M. and C. & W\. M; one over G. R., L. & D. via Grand Ledge; making a total of fifteen wires. The manager of the Grand Rapids office is Charles Baxter, who has been in the service of the company since I871, beginning as an operator in the Detroit office, from which place he was promoted to the management of the Port Huron office in I877, and transferred to Grand Rapids on the resignation of Mr. Benedict in i88o. Edward D. Benedict is one of the oldest operators in the State, and perhaps the longest in the service-having commenced his career as an operator in 1846, in Auburn, N. Y., from which point he was transferred to Buffalo in I847, and after working in several offices, receiving the first message sent from Buffalo to Cleveland, was selected to open and take charge of the office here. On his resignation, after a short vacation, he accepted the office of Secretary in the Masonic Mutual Benefit Association, which he has since held to the satisfaction of the fraternity. G. R. & 1. TEI,EGRAPH. Though not itself a chartered corporation, 16 the Grand Rapids and Indiana Telegraph Company has had a nominal existence ever since the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company erected lines for their private business and the accommodation of their patrons. In i874 it made an arrangement with the Atlantic and Pacific Telegraph Company for the transmission of messages off the line of the railroad, holding one wire exclusively for commercial messages. James Hawkins was the first Manager under this arrangement, with office at the corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets; succeeded in i877 by William Fitzgerald, and the office was removed to the Sweet's Hotel block. The receipts at first were small, but increased steadily. In May, I88I, P. Vincent Mehan became Manager. In the fall of i882 the Atlantic and Pacific was absorbed by the Western Union, and six months later the G. R. & I. entered into a working arrangement with the Mutual Union. The latter was finely equipped, and the business grew rapidly until its office receipts reached nearly $2,000 per month. In i884 the Mutual Union was absorbed by the Western Union. The G. R. & I. then made a similar arrangement with the Baltimore and Ohio Telegraph Company, which lasted until the fall of 1887, when this company met the fate of its predecessors. Thereupon President Hughart determined to let the G. R. & I. Telegraph Co' revert to its former position as a department of the railroad company, opening an office therefor in the Morton House, of which Henry E. Saunders was placed in charge. During the contracts with the companies mentioned the number of wires was increased and such efficient competition arose as resulted in a marked reduction of telegraph rates. PO()STAl AND UNITED LINES. The Michigan Postal and United Lines Telegraph Company opened their offices in Grand Rapids July 15, i886, with S. Stewart Palmer, Manager, and one messenger; the business being I, 565 messages, for which the company received $242, during the month of October next following. The business for June, I888, showed an increase to 2,456 messages, with a revenue of $424. The company have direct connection with the Commercial Cable Company and MackayBennett Cables at New York. Mr. Palmer began his telegraph life in the 218 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Pontiac, Michigan, office of the Western Union Telegraph Company, as a messenger, March 3, i873, in which office he was an operator for thirteen years; then opened an office for the Michigan Postal and United Lines, in April, i886, remaining there until transferred to Grand Rapids. The telegraphing business affords a fine illustration of the progress of invention and expertness, in its department. Forty years ago, when that art was in its infancy, less than twenty words per minute was considered the maximum of work with a single instrrument. Now it is alleged that there are operators who can send or take several hundred words per minute-a rate of speed which then would have been considered little short of a miracle. THE TE 1,EPHON E. A Telephone and Telegraph Construction Company was established in Grand Rapids October i, I879, as a branch of the Michigan Telephone Company of Detroit. The first Manager was S. E. Watson, with one operator and about twenty-five subscribers, with ten miles of wire in operation. The Company now (fall of i888) have in Grand Rapids eleven hundred subscribers, and employtwenty-seven operators and thirteen linemen, inspectors and clerks, making a total force of forty, of which C. L. Boyce is Manager, Mr. Watson having been promoted to Superintendent of Western District in September, I882. William J. Ducheney is chiel operator (A. S. Hillhouse, assistant), in the Grand Rapids Exchange, which, in the ratio of instruments to the population, is the largest in the United States. The Company pay the State a tax on each pole erected and each subscriber's wire and on each telephone in use, making their report to the Auditor of State July i each year. The report for the year ending July i, i888, shows five hundred and fiftythree miles of wire; eight hundred and eighty-seven independent and sixty-one combination wires, and five hundred and seventytwo poles in the city. The average number of daily connections in the city is nine thousand. During the first six months of I888 there were one hundred and seventysix new telephones put in for subscribers. Enterprise in this city at the present day in making history overleaps the historian. To the above may be added (May, I889): The telephone exchange has been moved to more commodious quarters in the Blodgett block, corner of Ottawa and Louis streets. It has there a switch board sixty-nine feet ten inches long, and about six feet high, having capacity to serve 1,200 lines using 1,400 telephones, with room for doubling the number. To fit the board about three tons of wire were used. The operators are young ladies-fifteen principal, seven auxiliary and eight night operators. The operating room is in the sixth story of the building, and 32 by 8o feet in size. Twenty-five cables enter the cupola, each containing fifty wires. The Bell telephone is used. The city is connected by telephone with upward of one hundred towns in Northern and Western Michigan, and the company has 712 miles of wire in the circuit. The full force employed numbers upward of sixty persons. The Grand Rapids Messenger and Package Delivery Company is the name of an enterprise carried on by aid of the telegraph and telephone, started August 15, I888, by Alexander McLachlin, its sole manager. Its business is indicated by its name. THE ACOUSTIC TElEPHONE. The Willard acoustic telephone was an instrument invented and patented by Henderson Willard, and in November, I88o, The American Private Line Telephone Company was organized in this city for its manufacture and sale. It is not electric; is used only in short, independent lines, and depends upon molecular vibration for the transmission of sound. Thomas W. Peck was President, E. F. Harrington Vice President, and M. S. Crosby Secretary and Treasurer of the Company. It has not been pushed. The management was afterward placed in the hands of C. R. Brown, of St. Ignace. CHAPTER XXVI. THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS. THE liberal educational spirit which distinguishes Grand Rapids in this day and generation, was even in a greater degree present among the little company of men and women who founded the first civilized homes by the Rapids of Grand River. As soon as the hardy pioneers were established in their new homes in the wilderness, they began to give their children such scanty educational advantages as the little settlement afforded. Undoubtedly the first educational institution within the present limits of the city was the Slater Baptist Indian Mission on the West Side, with its attendant Indian school, to which certain of the white children were sent for a time, crossing the river in canoes. The earliest school exclusively for white children was one kept by Miss Emily Guild, afterward Mrs. Emily Baxter, in the spring of I835 in the building on Waterloo street later known as "the old yellow warehouse," that was begun for a Catholic church on the west side of the river, but which Louis Campau caused to be moved across to the east side. It is undoubtedly true that the curriculum of this early school was not exceedingly comprehensive nor the discipline very rigid, as the regular pupils were for the most part children of Joel and Edward Guild, and consequently either the small sisters or cousins of their teacher. They were: Olive and Elvira E. Guild, Maria, Phebe, Marion and Peter Clark, and Louisa, Mariam, Erastus and Austin Guild. The little school had a successful term of two months, and not more than two or three besides those named were instructed there. Some of the earlier schools were taught at what is now the city's favorite suburban resort, Reeds Lake. In i834 the settlement there was nearly equal in importance to that at the Rapids, and in the winter of that year a school for the families of the settlement was taught in the upper part of a log house by two young girls, Miss Euphemia Davis, daughter of Ezekiel Davis, and Miss Sophia Reed, daughter of Lewis Reed. This school was maintained for the greater part of a year. Miss Davis afterward became the wife of Dr. Jewett, a missionary in India, and Miss Reed as the wife of Dixon Davis, died in I863, leaving a large family. In i835 a school house, probably the first in Grand River Valley, was built near the lake, and the school was kept during the winter by a young man named Francis Prescott, who afterward married Miss Bond, a teacher in Slater's Indian Mission, and became a Baptist minister. In the spring of I835 the family of Darius Winsor moved from their log-cabin on the bank of the river at Ionia into the lower story of a new frame house just built by Mr. Winsor in Grand Rapids, on the corner of Fountain and Ottawa streets. The house was not completed when they moved in, lacking doors and windows, the stairway leading into the upper story having no backs to the steps. Nevertheless, the Winsors began keeping house down stairs, and later in the season a Miss Day, from the Slater Indian Mission, kept school tip stairs, little Miss Adelaide Winsor (now Mrs. Adelaide Henderson) and some eight or nine other children attending and conning their lessons diligently while seated upon the flat side of the slabs, with legs inserted in the rounded under side, which at that time were the most improved school seats manufactured in the embryo furniture city. Miss Day taught this school for abiout three months, and then resigned it and returned to her former home in Massachusetts. In the summer of 1836 Miss Sophia Page, afterward wife of Judge Daniel Bacon of Monroe, taught a small school. Of Miss Page's school, Mrs. Marian L. Withey, in 220 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. a paper read at the annual meeting of the Pioneer Society of the State of Michigan, June 7, I882, says: It held its sessions in a new barn a little to the southeast across the street from the present Morton House. Being built of boards set up endwise, with a floor of boards laid down without matching, no school committee was vexed with the matter of ventilation. Here I had my first struggles with Webster's spelling book. Daniel Smith, of Cazenovia, N. Y., and Miss Mary Hinsdill, Mrs. Withey's aunt, taught two schools during the winter of I836-37, in the National Hotel then kept by Mrs. Withey's father. Mr. Smith's school was for young men, and Miss Hinsdill's for young ladies, the one occupying a lower and the other an upper room of the hotel. These schools were continued through the winter, with an average attendance of about twenty-five students. DIS'TRICT SCHOOl. BEGINNINGS. May 9, I835, the first school district within the present limits of Grand Rapids city and township was organized. It was bounded south and eastward by the present limits of the city, westward by Grand River, and extended northward one mile and a half above the present city line. In the summer of 1837 the affairs of the district were in a condition to warrant the employment of a teacher, and Miss Celestia Hinsdill, of Kalamazoo, Mrs. S. L. Withey's cousin, was a candidate for the position. To Wm. A. Richmond, Charles I. Walker and Noble H. Finney, school committeemen, and young gentlemen friends of the lady, the law gave the task of ascertaining the extent of her knowledge and fitness for the profession of teaching. The legend says they fulfilled the law to the uttermost, asking her questions innumerable, and both relevant and irrelevant to educational matters, to all of which she gave correct answers except one as to the location of Thunder Bay, that body of water having then been but recently rechristened, and she not having heard of its new name. Notwithstanding this defect in geographical knowledge, Miss Hinsdill was hired to teach the first term of the district school, and she afterward honored one of the gentlemen by accepting his name and becoming Mrs. C..I. Walker. Her term continued through the summer. The sessions were held in a frame building on Prospect Hill, erected by Aaron Sibley, and first occupied by him as a dwelling, which was in later years used as an engine house. William I. Blakely, in I839, built the first school house in the district-and, indeed, the first frame school house within what are now the limits of the city. It was a small structure, situated on the north side of East Fulton street, nearly opposite the end of Jefferson avenue. Joseph B. Galusha, of Rochester, N. Y., a son of Gov. Galusha of Vermont, taught school in the new house. Warren W. Weatherly, his brother, 0. R. Weatherly, Elijah Marsh, and Thomas B. Cuming, successively taught there for several terms, Mr. Cuming being in charge when the building was burned, February 22, I849. FIRST STONE SCHOOl. HO()USE. In 1848 this large district was divided, the lower or southern part forming District No. i, and the northern portion District No. 6, or the Coldbrook district. At the first school meeting of District No. i, May 6, 1848, James M. Nelson was elected Moderator, Stephen Wood, Director, and W. G. Henry, Assessor. Several special school meetings were held in i848, at which the question of erecting a new school house in the district was thoroughly discussed, and at a meeting held June 24 it was resolved, "That for the erection and completion of a suitable stone school house in this district the suim of twenty-five hundred dollars be levied and assessed upon the property of the district." A building committee of six was empowered "to act in concert with the proper officers of the district in the disposal of the present site and school buildings, the purchase of a new site, the drawing up of plans and specifications, advertising for and receiving proposals, and letting the job for the construction and completion of a stone school house, which when completed shall in no case cost to exceed the said sum of twentyfive hundred dollars." At a school meeting held July I5, I848, the committee reconlmended "the purchase of lots No. i, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, in Block 8, Dexter Fraction, and the six lots lying and adjoining on the east side in the Hatch addition, as the new school house site." This report was accepted and after some inquiry into the title of the lots, the site, which is identical with the present Central High School grounds, was acquired FIRST STONE SCHOOL HOUSE-GRADING THE SCHOOLS. 2 1 by the district. November II, i848, the Director was authorized to receive "proposals for the erection of a stone school house two stories in height (without a basement) uipon the same plan as drawn by Stephen Wood, and as may be seen at the store of Sinclair & King." January 8, i849, the committee accepted the proposition of David Burnett for the building of the school house, which was accordingly erected in the succeeding summer and fall. The stone used in its construction was obtained from the bed of Grand River, and the building, although possessing small claim to architectural beauty, was a more substantial and commodious structure than might be supposed when the smallness of the contract price paid for it is considered. It was situated just west of the site of the present building, and an octagonal dome fourteen feet in diameter, and covered with a tin roof, formed its most striking architectural feature. In the ctlpola was placed a bell which chimed chidlingly upon the ear of the tardy school-boy, as, "with sachel and shining morning face, he crept, like a snail, unwillingly to school.' The house was 44 by 64 feet on the ground, three stories high. It contained three large study rooms, six recitation rooms, a dressing room for the girls, and a room for the library and the school apparatus. In 1854 it accommodated 760 pupils. This building served well the purpose for which it was designed until I867, when the growing educational interests of the district demanded better accommodations, and it was pulled down upon the completion of the present high school building. The stone and other building material was sold to various citizens, and the massive front door of the old school house now forms part of the residence of Arthur S. White. The door's heavy lock and key were presented by Mr. White to the Board of Education and are deposited among its archives. At the annual school meeting held September 24 of the same year in which the stone school house was built, the district was organized under the union school system, which necessitated the election of four additional trustees, and the following Board was chosen: Moderator, Thompson Sinclair; Director, H. K. Rose; Assessor, Michael Connolly; Trustees, W. G. Henry, John Ball, Zenas G. Winsor, and T. H. Lyon. The first term of school under the new system was begun in the new stone school house, November 12, i849, under the principalship of E. M. Johnson, of Western New York, who was assisted by Miss Hollister (afterward Mrs. Win. M. Ferry, of Grand Haven), Miss Elizabeth White (now Mrs. Whipple), Miss Almira Hinsdill (afterward Mrs. Jones, of Denver, Colorado), and Miss Thirza Moore. Mr. Johnson resigned at the close of the first term, and was succeeded Feb. I8, i85o, by the Rev. James Ballard. Mr. Ballard, after holding the position three years, gave place to Edward W. Chesebro. The period of Mr. Chesebro's administration, which lasted from i853 until he was stricken down in the school-room by disease (some five years before his death, which occurred January 31, 1862), was a critical time in the history of the schools. The fast growing community began to require additional educational facilities, and the people were not vet wholly awakened and reconciled to the increased expenditures and more vigorous discipline necessary for the extension and management of a higher and more complex system of schools. To Mr. Chesebro's tact and executive ability in this trying transition time, too much credit cannot be given. He gave his whole soul to the work, neither.spared he his body, but drew so heavily upon his physical strength in his labors that his health broke down under the strain. The following inscription tiupon the monument in Oak Hill cemetery erected to his memory by his pupils, speaks not after the usual manner of epitaphs, but utters the very truth: His was a teacher's heart, With zeal that never tired; And thousand souls beat higher, By his single soul inspired. There were not wanting other teachers and public spirited citizens to carry forward the work which Mr. Chesebro laid down, and to lay broad and deep the foundations upon which the liberal educational system of the city rests. GRAI)ING 'THE SCHOOLS. The immediate successor of Prof. Chesebro was Prof. E. Danforth, and in his principalship the schools were graded and the High School established by action taken at the annual school meeting September 26, 1859, tinder Act No. 16i of the Session 222 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Laws of 1859, entitled: "An Act to Establish Graded and High Schools." The act also provided that the district board consist of six trustees, and the following gentlemen were at that meeting chosen the first members of the Board under its new organization: Trustees for one year, James H. McKee and Charles Shepard; for two years, J. W. Peirce and George Kendall; for three years, John Ball and Wilder D. Foster. On motion of D. S. Leavitt, this Board was instructed to establish a High School in the district during the current year, and at a subsequent meeting of the Board, J. H. McKee, Charles Shepard and Geo. Kendall were appointed a committee to confer with Mr. Danforth in relation to the grading of the schools, the prices of tuition to be charged, etc., and in a short time accomplished their work. The first commencement exercises of the High School were held in Luce's Hall at the close of the school year ol 1861-1862. Frances C. Stevens, Caroline A. Remington, Thirza I. Wartrous, Caroline C. Wyman, Elizabeth A. Pierce, Julia A. Comstock, Abbie R. Nelson, Emily L. Winsor, Mary M. G. Hodenpyl, Helen M. Knight, Frances S. T. Cuming, Aurelia S. Henry and Annette C. Dickinson were the members of the class; Miss Henry, Miss Cuming and Miss Dickinson being among those accorded positions of honor on the programme of the evening. THE GIL.:ERT1' FUND. Eminent among the citizens whose energy and business ability have made Grand Rapids one of the prominent and flourishing business centers of the country, is Thomas D. Gilbert, whose efforts in the promotion of the welfare of the schools also are well known and deserving of historic recognition. In the minutes of a meeting of the Board of Trustees held at the office of Ball & McKee, February 7, i86o, the following letter is recorded: GRAND RAPIDS, January 20, i 86o. ''o John Ball, Wilder 1). Foster and other Trustees of Union School )District Number One in the city of Grand Rapids: GENTLEMEN-Herewith I send you my bond for the sum of two thousand dollars, bearing date the first inst. and payable in five years from date with interest annually. I donate this amount to you and your' successors in office, or such other persons as may be in your stead elected or appointed to manage the public schools of the city, in trust for the following purpose: The income from this fund I wish to have distributed among the meritorious scholars of the public schools of the city, under the direction of yourselves and your legal successors in office, in honorary rewards for scholarship, regular attendance and good conduct. The condition of the donation is that all the scholars, in all the public schools in the city, shall have an opportunity, under the rules that may be prescribed for the distribution of the income of this fund, to compete for the prizes or medals to be awarded. I am, very respectfully, Your obedient servant, Taos. D. GILBERT. P. S.-I recommend that proficients in English studies only, be rewarded from the income of this fund, and that a fair proportion of it be distributed among the Ward Schools. THOS. D. GILBERT. The Trustees accepted with thanks the generous donation of Mr. Gilbert, and pledged themselves to carry out the intentions of the donor to the best of their ability. The interest on the fund was thereafter apportioned among the three districts of the city-District Number One, Number Two and Number Six-in proportion to the number of children of school age in each. By mutual agreement between the Board and Mr. Gilbert the fund has not been used, as at first intended, in the granting of rewards and medals for excellence in scholarship, but has been applied toward the purchasing of reference books and scientific and other apparatus for the schools; Prof. Strong and other experienced teachers considering this disposal of the income from the fund to be more beneficial than the other. Thus was founded what has ever since been known as "The Gilbert Trust Fund." Edwin A. Strong was cotemporary with Mr. Danforth as a teacher, and succeeded him as principal of the High School in I86i. Mr. Strong brought to the schools a mind of rare culture, richly stored with knowledge gained by a life of study, and a Christian character of peculiar purity and beauty. At a meeting of the Board of Trustees held October 4, i862, it was resolved, "Thai Mr. E. A. Strong be requested to act as Superintendent of Schools, and to take so much time from his dutties as Principal of the High School as may be requisite tc thoroughly organize all the schools of the district and make them effective." He continued to hold the office of Superintendent until he resigned in i870, to take a position in the Normal School at Oswego, N. Y. After a short stay in Oswego he returned to this city, and as teacher and THE GILBERT FUND-WEST SIDE SCHOOLS. 223 Principal remained connected with the High School until I885, when he resigned to accept a professorship in the State Normal School at Ypsilanti. The influence of such a man upon the schools where he taught, and the community of which he was for so many years an honored member, cannot be measured by words. Anson J. Daniels became Superintendent upon the consolidation of the three districts in 187I, and of his services at that important era in the history of the schools, A. L. Chubb, President of the Board of Education, in his annual report for i871-72, says: I may not omit mentioning in this report the excellent services of our Superintendent. He had a great work before him, and it is but simple justice to say that it has been well and faithfully performed. General harmony and concert of action has been secured, and the machinery of our school system, under the recent consolidation, has been put in successful operation. You have, in a practical way, recognized the value of his services. IPersonally, I desire to acknowledge the many obligations I am under to him for his hearty and ready co-operation in the solution of the many problems incident to the recent change in our school system, and which, in the march of progress, must constantly arise. THE WEST SIIDE SCHOOlS. The first school expressly for white children on the west side of Grand River, was taught by Miss Bond. afterward Mrs. Francis Prescott, one of the teachers in the Slater Mission school for Indians, whom the settlers placed in charge of their school in a log school house not far from the bank of the river and a little south of Bridge street. The furnishings of this school house were neither expensive nor elaborate. Two desks for writing extended the length of the sides of the room; slabs, flat side up, with pegs for legs, served in lieu of patent seats. A huge sheet-iron box stove, the wood for which was furnished by patrons of the school and cut by the boys in attendance, furnished superabundant warmth in the room to those near it, and left the unfortunates seated far off in the corners where the chinking was defective a prey to the winter's cold. Here Miss Bond taught some two dozen pupils, drilling them thoroughly in the three R's and the other elementary branches of the tree of knowledge, from 8 A. M. to 5 P. M., six days in the week for the greater part of a year. She was succeeded by Miss Mary L. Green, now Mrs. Wm. I. Blakely, who taught the school the following two sum mers of I839 and i840. This primitive school house served the educational interests of District Number Two for several years (many of the residents sending their children to schools on the east side-to one in particular taught in i843-44, by Reuben H. Smith). Later this log house was succeeded by a small frame building situated a little south of Bridge and east of what is now Court street. When the population of the district had increased so that still larger accommodations were needed, a larger, onestory frame building, spacious enough, it was supposed, to shelter the entire school population of the district for a hundred years, was erected on First street, on the site where St. Mary's Catholic church now stands. Milton S. Littlefield taught in this school for several years. In I853 the district adopted the Union school organization. The Rev. James Ballard was chosen the first Principal of the newly organized school. In I854 the frame school house, notwithstanding its spacious proportions, was found inadequate to the growing needs of the district, and Ebenezer Anderson, one of the trustees, was given a contract to erect a new Union school house on the lot corner of Turner and West Broadway streets, which had been purchased by the district. In the following year the new school house was completed. According to the contract the building was to be of stone, of ample proportions and two stories in height. At the intercession and with the financial backing of Lucius Patterson, Baker Borden and other citizens interested in the organization of a military company, Mr. Anderson increased the height of the building by another story, to be used as a drill hall by the militiamen. Subsequently, when the number of pupils increased so as to make additional rooms necessary, this story was fitted up and used for school purposes. When thus completed the building furnished sittings for 464 pupils. The rooms had low ceilings, and were lighted by small windows. A wooden belfry sheltered the school bell which called the pupils to their tasks. The same bell swings in the tower of the present Union school building there, and is the only relic of the old building which the historian was able to discover. Before the union of the school districts of the city in I87I, two other buildings, the old Turner street and Jefferson street schools, were erected. 2,24 ~..4 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAIPIDS. W. F. Kent succeeded Mr. Ballard as Principal of the school. It was during his administration that the District took advantage of the act of the Legislature passed in I859, and graded the school and established a high school, in which Algebra, Geometry and the higher branches of study were taught. No graduating classes were organized in this school, however, many pupils preferring to finish their courses of study and receive their diplomas at the }High School in Number One district. From September, I86I, to June, I865, Prof. J. C. Clark, of Port Jervis, N. Y., acted as Principal of the school, and was assisted in his labors by his wife, who was Principal of the primary department. Before the union of the districts Prof. Kent served another short term as Principal, and Prof. Stewart Montgomery, now of Olivet College, was at the head of the schools when the districts were consolidated in I871. THE CODlOBROOK SCHOOLS. District Number Six, or the Coldbrook District, as it was commonly called, included all that part of what is now the city, which is.north of a line midway between Newberry and Mason streets and east of Grand River, and also extended one mile and a half north of the city limits. The early records of the district, couched in quaint phraseology, are amusing reading, and show the small beginnings from which the schools of the district were developed. At an adjourned special meeting of the district, held September 8, 1848, the record says-"a motion was made and seconed which was unanimusly adopted, that Elihu Smith be appointed a comity to see if a sirtin house can be bot of G. M. Mills for a school house and to report the same to the next meting. The meting was then adjourned for one weak." Evidently Mr. Smith was unsuccessful in his efforts to purchase "a sirtin house of G. M. Mills for a school house," since at the meeting held September i5, although no mention of Mr. Smith's report is made, it is recorded that "a motion was made and seconed, which was unanimisly adopted, to purchas of C. W. Taylor one quarter of one acre of land for a site for a school house for the sum of ten dollars on the north west corner of a pease of land comonly cald the Jewit fraction on the east side of the road. It was also motioned and carried that wee build a school house eighteen feet by twenty four feet and that a tax bee asest to build it also that there bee raised the sum of one hundred and sixty dollars for building a school house and purchasing a site and buying a stove for the same. " At the annual meeting of the district held September 25, 1848, Elihu Smith was chosen Moderator, C. W. Taylor, Director, and Franklin Nichols, Assessor. At the annual meeting in 1849, these gentlemen were elected to succeed themselves, and $12 was voted to underpin the school house. The electors of the district at the annual meeting September 29, i85, chose Edmund Carrier, Moderator, James Patterson, Director, and Elijah Dart, Assessor, and "it was voted to have four months school and to have a man teacher. " Septenmber 27, i852, Horatio Brooks was elected Moderator, Foster Tucker, Director, and Elijah Dart, Assessor, for the ensuing year. On motion, it was "voted that the director be requested to look after and return the school house stove supposed to be in Mr. E. Carrier's possession." A tax of $20 was voted to pay the indebtedness of the district and repair the school house, and it was decided to apply two-thirds of the public moneys to four months of winter school and one-third to the summer school, and to have "a male teacher for the winter school." From the accounts of the Assessor it appears that the male teacher employed in accordance with this resolution was Prof. Franklin Everett, and that he received $55.32 salary. A Miss French taught the summer school and received $30 for her services. At the annual (adjourned) meeting September 29, I857, it was voted to raise $i per scholar on the taxable property of the district for teachers' wages, "the whole number of scholars between the ages of 4 and 18 being 86." Four dollars were voted for the purchase of Webster's Unabridged Dictionary. The project of building a new school house was brought up at the annual meeting in i858, but resulted only in a resolution to establish a "branch school'' in the eastern part of the district, and to rent a suitable building for that purpose. In 1859 the district purchased of C. W. Taylor, for $300, the present school house site on Leonard street, and Foster Tucker, Judge Davis, E(dmund Carrier, Seth Holcomb, and Jesse C. Wyckoff, were appointed a building com UNITY, FREE SCH()OLS AND PROGRESS. 2'2; rmittee to push forward the work of erecting a new school house to cost $ I,500. The contract was let to W\. H. Stewart, and on April 24, i86o, the district accepted the school house built by him-a two-story brick structure containing two rooms, of which the lower one only was completed. From the time of the erection of this school building, the educational interests of the district were established on a more liberal basis. The upper room of the school house was fitted up as soon as it was required, and the building then furnished sittings for 128 pupils. The district enjoyed the advantages of the old U nion school organization for some years, and at the annual meeting September 2, i867, it was resolved to grade the schools and elect a board of six trustees in accordance with the law of I859. This was (lone accordingly, and the membership of the board chosen was as follows: Trustees for one year, Daniel G. Brown, B. C. Saunders; for two years, Wm. M. Wylie, L. M. Page; for three years, Amos Quimby, Francis Drew. Among the early teachers in this dristrict, were A. J. Tucker and Maria A. Jipson, who taught in i86i and i862, and C. \V. Borst who served as Principal of the school from i862 to I864. Other teachers before the union of the districts were, Mr. and Mrs. G. H. Bell, Adelaide Tucker and A. Carrier. Fannie Tucker was Principal in 1867. UNIT', FREE SCHOOLS1 ANI) PROGRESS. By an act of the Legislature of Michigan,.lpproved March I5, 187I, it was provided "that the city of Grand Rapids and all contiguous territory which shall hereafter be added thereto, shall constitute one school district, and all public schools therein shall be under the direction and control of the Board of Education hereinafter provided for, and shall be free to all residents of said district over the age of five years." In accordance with this law, at a public meeting called by Mayor L. H. Randall, in the old Council Chamber in the Randall Block, April I i, 1871, District Number Two, or the West Side District; District Number Six, or Coldbrook District, and District Number One, were united, and the first Board of Education of the city of Grand Rapids was organized from the trustees of the three districts. It may with truth be said that the history of the present schools of the Valley 17 City began with this event, and this union of schools has proved as beneficial to their prosperity and progress as has the blessed bond of the "many in one" to the States of the Union. Before the union there were rivalries and conflictions between the sev eral school organizations of the city, and the limited resources of each either prevented the employment of the ablest educators, or did not adequately compensate those who were employed. Even in the first year after the union, under the able superintendency of A. J. Daniels, the results began to be felt in increased prosperity and harmony; a higher degree of perfection was attained in every department of school work, and the schools began to be wrought into one broad system, incomparably superior in efficiency to the fragmentary disarrangement previously existing. In February, 1885, Mr. Daniels, after more than a decade's service as Superintendent of the Schools, retired. I. N. Mitchell, Principal of the Grammar department of the High School, was chosen his successor, and held the office ulntil i886, when he became Superintendent of the schools at Fond dul Lac, Wisconsin. He was succeeded by F. M. Kendall, of Jackson, Mich., the present incumbent. AUXILIARY EFFORTS AND AGENCIES. Under Mr. Mitchell's Superintendency, the schools received a decided impetus in the direction of the more advanced methods of education which have originated in this latter part of the Nineteenth Century, and have not yet been universally accepted. His was a vigorous mind, looking always into the future and ever on the alert for whatever seemed to promise better than the past-a mind impatient of using a worn-out system out of reverence to its grey hairs. Under his influence many who had become accustomed to face backward turned themselves about, and a vast deal of conservatism, which is a good thing when it is not "too much of a good thing," was thus eliminated from the schools. Chiefly through Mr. Mitchell's efforts, a kindergarten was established in i886 in connection with the schools, and maintained for two years, and kindergarten methods were introduced to a limited extent in the primary grades. In I884 an ungraded or truant school was established as provided for by Act i44 of },); HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. the Laws of I883. The school was organized and opened November 8, i884, with an attendance of eight. The number increased to 3I within the first month, and reached 44 by the last of December. The average attendance for the year was 30. This school has resulted in much good, not only to the so-called "incorrigibles" who are sent to it, but indirectly to the other pupils by arotusing in them a wholesome dread of the truant officer, and thus preventing irregularities in attendance. The Truant officer is a policeman maintained for the purpose of looking up truants, and otherwise serving the interests of the school. In I884 an exhibit of the work of the schools was sent to the International Exhibition at New Orleans. The progress of the schools and the estimation in which their work is held by others than residents of Grand Rapids, may be judged from the fact that in this exposition of nations their exhibit was awarded a diploma of honor. Superintendent Mitchell, describing the exhibit and the means by which it was obtained, in his annual report to the Board of Education, says: Late in October of I884, it was determined that our schools should be represented at the' International Exhibition at New Orleans. To this end the regular examination papers were all collected, and the representative work of each grade in each subject, bound uniformly and forwarded to New Orleans. The work of the preceding year in drawing was also sent, together with a number of wood carvings, done after original designs by the High School pupils. Other features of the exhibit were, (a) two cases of slate work taken from the first and second grade rooms without the foreknowledge of teacher or pupils; (b) several Michigan albums made by the pupils of eighth grade rooms; (c) a collection of photographs of representative school buildings; (d) microscopical drawings from the class in physiology and zoology; (t) a complete set of our school blanks and forms; (f) a group of relief maps showing the topography of the State, its geological formation and the distribution of pine timber; (g,) a large collection of cards showing the work of the first and second grade in geography, color, form and inventions. This work was done with colored shoe-pegs and small oblong blocks, and was finally presented to the French and Japanese Commissioners. A diploma of honor was awarded us for the general exhibit of school work, information of which was sent by the general manager of the State exhibit. An exhibit consisting of the examination papers of all classes above the third primary, a statement of the public school system, historical sketch. statistics and photographic views of school buildings, philosophical apparatus and views of the interior of the High School, was sent to the Centennial Exhibition at Philadelphia in i876, and received much favorable comment from educated foreigners who examined it critically. NIGHT SCHOOlS. Since i872 night schools have been maintained every winter as part of the school system, for the benefit of those whose employment prevents their attendance at school in the day time. These schools have been well attended, a large proportion of their pupils being Hollanders who wish to learn the English language, and young men and boys employed during the day in furniture factories. A relatively large number of girls also attend these schools. The enrollment in the nine months of night school taught, from September, i886, to June, I887, was i84, with an average attendance of 57. The sessions of the night school, and also of the ungraded school, were held for a number of years in the old stone mansion formerly occupied by the Peninstllar Club, at the corner of Pearl and Ottawa streets. on the last fragment of Prospect Hill. ULNGRADED SCHOOL. In September, i871, an ungraded school, very different in character from the one referred to in the preceding paragraphs, was opened, the work of which is thus set forth in Mr. Daniels' report: "Many persons whose early education has been neglected yearly present themselves for classification in the schools, whose age and maturity of mind will enable them to advance much faster than the pupils with whom they must be classed if the rigid rules of the graded system be followed. Eighty-seven such persons have entered this school the past year. many of whom have been transferred to other departments as they became fitted for them." The second year 102 pupils entered the school, which was maintained for a number of years, until changes in the grading of the schools made it no longer necessary. TRAININ(; SCHOOL. In 1871 a training school for teachers was established in Primary No. 3 (now Fountain street school), in which persons who wished to enter the schools as teachers were drilled in the work before being placed in charge of TRAINING SCHOOL-BOARD OF EDUCATION. 227 rooms. The school was conducted upon the following plan: The Principal, with eight pupil-teachers to assist, took charge of and taught the primary department in the building, which then occupied four rooms. Two pupil-teachers were assigned to each room, one for each half day, who continued to do the work in the same for ten weeks, when they were placed for the same length of time in charge of another room, thus passing through all the primary grades in one year. In a meeting at the close of each day, at which all pupil-teachers were required to be present, criticisms and suggestions were offered by the Principal, and plans presented for the following day. This training school was kept up until 1878, when the Board of Education adopted the present cadet system, by which each year several cadet teachers are employed at $200 per annum, each of whom is assigned to some teacher whom she assists, and by whom she is instructed. As soon as capable the cadet is placed in charge of a room, which generally happens not later than the second year of her cadetship. In I879 the School Board, in connection with the Union Benevolent Association, opened an Industrial School for girls, the Board providing a teacher in the person of Mrs. Lamira Freeman, and the Benevolent Association managing the industrial part of the school. The experiment proved expensive, and the Trustees soon decided to discontinue it. Of this school Ladd J. Lewis, President of the Board for I88o-8i, said: "Great good was accomplished, for the pupils were of that class whose parents are poor and who do not feel able to clothe them in a suitable manner for the ward schools. Much good was done and good seed sown that will be of lasting benefit to the pupils, and though it was expensive the past has proven that it is cheaper to educate the people than to build prisons for them." Superintendent I. N. Mitchell strongly advocated the establishment of a normal training school for boys in connection with the Ungraded or Truant School. In his recommendation to the Board on the subject he says: In such schools as have made the experiment, it is found that 30 boys are all that can be well handled by one teacher. In our ungraded school we have just such a class-the average attendance is about 30. In the schools where normal training has been instituted, the sentiment is unanimous that the boys enter enthusiastically into the work, and frequently have to be driven out of the shops at the end of the work hours. Another result noticed at the manual training schools is that the shop work does not interfere with the book work, but on the contrary increas s its efficiency. From the report of the special committee on Manual Training at Omako, Nebraska, it appears that the cost of a plant for the instruction of 30 boys, is as follows: Thirty benches for 30 boys............................... 421 00 Tools for 30 boys........................................ 187 50 (ias and water service...................... 92 00 T otal............................................... $708 50 This cost could be reduced by making bench room and supplying tools for but half the boys, with the view of having half work while the other half study. Prof. F. M. Kendall, the present Superintendent, warmly seconded the suggestion of his predecessor, and recommended the appointment of a committee to look into the feasibility of the undertaking. Such a committee of the board of education now (January, i889), has the matter in charge, and has embodied the above suggestion of Mr. Mitchell in its report. The idea of such training is not to teach any particular trade, but to give theoretical and practical instruction in the elementary principles underlying them all. I1OARI) OF EDUCATION. The great pulblic interest felt in educational matters in Grand Rapids is well demonstrated by the fact that many citizens have been found willing to spend their time and talents in performing the onerous duties of members of the Board of Education, although the office yields little honor and no salary. There are but few citizens of prominence, residents of the city for any considerable number of years, who have not served in this capacity either before or since the uniting of the three districts. Among those who served on the Board of District No. i, were: John Ball, James H. McKee, Thomas D. Gilbert, J. M. Nelson, Stephen Wood, W. G. Henry, Thompson Sinclair, Joshua Boyer, H. K. Rose, C. P. Calkins, A. D. Rathbone, Charles Shepard, Jonathan H. Gray, Edson Fuller, Gaius Deane, David Burnett, Alonzo Platt, John Potter, John H. Hollister, F. D. Boardman, Leonard Bement, L. R. Atwater, Henry Martin, William A. Richmond, Wilder D. Foster, Charles Stone, Lewis Porter, John W. Peirce, George Kendall and Truman H. Lyon. After the consolidation many who had served on the District boards were re-elected 2'8 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. to the new board, among whose lists of members since I871 have also appeared the names of John McConnell, J. C. Parker, J. H. Tompkins, Moreau S. Crosby, Amos Quimby, W. D. Talford, A. L. Skinner, H. W. Slocum, I. Simmons, J. B. Haney, F. B. Day, L. M. Page, Ebenezer Anderson, John Hill, R. H. Smith, C. G. Brinsmaid, James H. McKee, J. T. Elliott, Leonard H. Randall, R. W. Davis, B. C. Saunders, A. T. Linderman, W. G. Saunders, Eben Smith, Charles W. Calkins, P. R. L. Peirce, George S. Berry, E. J. Shinkman, G. De Graaf, Joseph Penney, R. B. Woodcock, J. E. McBride, Heman Palmerlee, A. D. Plumb, John B. Graves, Orland H. Godwin, James N. Davis, H. B. Fallas, J. M. Harris, W. R. Shelby, D. D. Hughes, W. K. Wheeler, W. H. H. Walker, A. P. Sinclair, G. W. Stanton, J. J. De Jonge, D. H. Powers, George C. Fitch, J. Edward Earle, Charles E. Belknap, Charles R. Sligh, William M. Hathaway, Charles J. Hupp, James D. Robinson, Dennis Campau, W. J. Stuart, Henry Utterwick, Alfred S. Richards, Edgar P. Mills, Josiah Tibbetts, James Fox, George B. Reily, M. J. Ulrich, David P. Ransom, E. H. Stein, Simon Sullivan, George R. Allen, H. H. Drury, J. B. Griswold, George R. Allen, and Louis Prinz. The following table gives the names of Presidents of the Board, which are omitted in the preceding list, and statistics showing the increase in school population since I871: and thus nine members of the Board, a majority of the seventeen, are elected annually, which makes the body exceedingly sensitive to popular control, while the holding over of the eight members prevents sudden and radical innovations. These school elections are often very lively contests, although other than educational questions seldom enter into them. Interest in them has of late years been greatly stimulated by the fact that women, who have children of school age (over 5 and under 20 years) or who possess taxable property, are qualified to vote, and to hold office as Trustee. Women have very numerously exercised this right, and have seldom failed to put one of their own sex in the field as a candidate, since the law making them eligible was enacted in i885. At the same session of the Legislature the school law was so amended as to abolish the annual school meeting in the city, the school budget being thereafter submitted to the Common Council instead of an assemblage of electors. At the school election held Monday, September 3, i888, the women nominated two candidates for Trustee, Mrs. Harriet Cook in the Third Ward, and Mrs. F. B. Wallin in the Eighth. Mrs. Wallin was defeated, her opponent, R. W. Merrill, receiving a majority of 157 votes. In the Third Ward the efforts of Mrs. Cook's friends, who worked hard in the interest of their candidate, were crowned with success. She received 674 votes to 6oi cast for John A. Covode, the nominee of the citizens' caucus. The total of votes cast, 1,275 was the largest ever called out at a school election in the ward, and shows the warm interest taken in the contest. Mrs. Cook was endorsed by the Equal Suffrage Association, and fully 500 of the votes she received were cast by women, yet she did not receive the unanimous support of the women of her ward. At least one lady (a school teacher) was heard to remark on the day of election: "Well, I am going to vote against her. I don't want a woman on the Board of Education, for when she comes to visit the schools she will be sure to see everything! " Mrs. Cook has the honor of being the first woman elected to membership in the Board of Education. The membership for i888-89, which was determined at this election, was as follows: First Ward, Edward H. Stein, Henry E. Locher; Second Ward, Geo. R. Allen, Joseph Houseman; No. of PRESIDENTS OF SCHOOL BOARD. Child' n Enrol'd No. I No. child 'n Tears Schlageliea 1871-73. 1873 -74. 1874-75. 1875-76. 1876-77. 1877-78. 1878-79. 1879-80. 1880-81. 1881-82. 1882-83. 1883-84. 1884-85. 1885-86. 1886-87. 1887-88. 1888-89. A. L. Chubb.................. A. L. Chubb................... Henry Fralick................ Henry Fralick................ William P. Innes.............. William P. Innes.............. Laurens W. Wolcott......... A. D. Plumb.................. Ladd J. Lewis................. Ladd J. Lewis................. Gaius W. Perkins............. Gaius W. Perkins............. Charles Chandler............. Henry J. Felker............... Henry J. Felker............... James Blair................... Niram A. Fletcher............ 3,8C5 4,398 4,819 4,854 5,062 5,040 5,039 5,109 5,390 5,853 6,576 6,932 7,604 7,925 8,240 8,539 9,301 5,229 ' 5,908 6, 682 l 7,961 8,400 8,900! 9,078 1 9, 115 9,559 9,784 11,298 11,910 12,071 12,218 12,775 14,066 15,164 53 64 74 74 83 87 92 91 101 107 131 137 142 168 183 204 213 The Trustees are chosen for two yearstwo from each of the eight wards —one from every ward being elected each year on the first Monday in September. The Mayor of the city is ex oqicio a member of the Board, SCHOOL GROWTH AND EXI'ENSES. 22(J Third Ward, H. H. Drury, Mrs. Harriet A. Cook; Fourth Ward, J. B. Griswold, James Blair; Fifth Ward, Simon Sullivan, James E. McBride; Sixth Ward, Henry J. Felker, John Gelock; Seventh Ward, Alfred S. Richards, Charles E. Kellogg; Eighth Ward, Niram A. Fletcher, Robert \V. Merrill; I. M. Weston, Mayor, ex officio member. SCHOOl, GROWTH AND EXPENSES. The rapid growth of the schools may readily be observed by reference to the preceding table. The increase from 5,229 youth of school age in 1871 to 15,164 in I888, results naturally from the growth of the city, but the increase in the number of teachers employed from 53 in 187I to 213 in I888, shows that the schools have more than kept pace with the city in growth, since the present school population is a little less than thrice as large as it was in i871, while the number of teachers employed has been more than quadrupled. This indicates to what a state of efficiency the teaching force of the schools has been brought; and the large ratio which the number of pupils enrolled in the schools bears to the whole number of school age (5 to 20 years) in the city, clearly shows how strong a hold the public schools have gained upon popular respect and confidence. The slight falling off in the proportions of the enrollments to the school population from 1875 to I883 was probably due to the business depression of that period, compelling the older children to leave school for work. The large increase in the cost of education per capita from $14.87 in I879 to $19.93 in 1887, is what might have been expected, when it is considered that the number of pupils enrolled has increased annually between those years at the average rate of 430, and to accommodate this increase the Board has built ten school buildings at a cost of $241,000, besides enlarging several others, in some instances to twice their original size. The large increase in the number of pupils required a corresponding increase in the number of teachers, which was more than doubled in that period. In order to obtain the best educational talent, an increase in wages was necessary, andl for the past six years the salaries in the primary and grammar grades have been fixed by the following standing rules based on position and experience: Principals receive $500 for the first room, and $25 for each additional room in the building. Assistants in charge of rooms receive maximum salaries as follows, on entering their fifth year' s experience: Teachers of first and seventh grades, $550: second to sixth grade inclusive, $500; eighth and ninth grades, $6oo. Cadets receive $200 for the first year, $300 for the second, if remaining so long a cadet, and on promotion to the charge of a room $350, which is increased regularly each year until the maximum of the grade is reached. The salary of the Superintendent for the school year ending Sept. 3, I888, was $2,500, and of the High School principals $i,8oo and $i,500 respectively. The salaries for the school year ending Sept. i, i888, when the number of teachers was 204, aggregated $96,975, and for the year ending September, i889, with an increase of nine teachers, it was estimated that $IO7,440.24 would be expended for salaries. The public spirit of the citizens of Grand Rapids is perhaps in nothing better shown than by the liberal manner in which accommodations have been provided for the rapidly swelling school population. In 1878 the city had twelve school-buildings with a seating capacity of 4,029; now (January, 1889), there are twenty-three school-buildings with sittings for some 9,200 pupils. The estimated value of school property is upward of $652,000. It has been a quite uniform practice in erecting new buildings to raise the money for them on long time bonds, putting the cost of site and the furnishings into the annual tax budget. The city has now outstanding $2 6, ooo of school bonds, covering a period up to I907 before they all mature, every dollar of which has been issued since June i, i878. The rate of school taxation for I886-87 was seven mills on the dollar. The total expenses of the Board of Education for all purposes were $183,344, of which $30,935 was for buildings, school sites and furniture, grading, sewers and other permanent improvements. The school budget for the current year-1888-89 —amounts in round numbers to $2 o0, 000, of which $ i o, ooo is the amount estimated for teachers' salaries. The per cent. of taxation for all school purposes for 1887-88 was 8X/i- mills on the dollar. THE STUDIES PURSUED). In the earlier days of the schools, tuition 230 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. was charged, but now the public schools are wholly free, no tuition being charged from the lowest department to the highest, except to non-resident pupils. Not only are the schools themselves free, but the Legislature at a recent session, on petition of the School Board, so amended the law as to authorize the Board to purchase text-books and all other supplies, and furnish the free use of them to pupils-such supplies, however, remaining the property of the Board. The course of study in the schools requires twelve years-the first four in the primary schools, the second four in the grammar, and the last four in the High School. The aim in the primary and grammar schools is to teach thoroughly the elements of a sound, practical, common school education. Special teachers in music, drawing and penmanship (the teachers in these branches for I888-9 being respectively G. C. Shepard, Miss Sylvia McCall and Miss May V. Cavanaugh) superintend the work in these branches in all grades, but it is in the primary and grammar grades that particular attention is given to this special instruction. In the High School, as in the primary and grammar departments, the course of study is arranged with special reference to pupils who complete their school life there; although the classical course, including four years of Latin and two of Greek, and a full course of mathematics, the Latin and modern language courses and the preparatory English course, entitles graduates to enter Michigan University and the State Agricultural College upon their High School diplomas. The modern language courses, including four yeais of French or German with the sciences and mathematics, and the English commercial course which substitutes bookkeeping in place of higher mathematics, have been found well adapted to the needs of young inen and women whose education ends in the High School. Among studies in the Grand Rapids High School curriculum not always included in High School courses, are zoology, chemistry, geology, botany, astronomy and political economy. The natural sciences are studied by the experimental method under the professorship of C. W. Carman. A well equipped frame laboratory annex of three rooms for the accommodation of these sciences was erected in the summer of i888 to the southward of the main High school building. THE SCHOOl, BUIILD)INGS. The public schools of Michigan are justly celebrated throughout the United States for their efficiency and progressive spirit, and the schools of Grand Rapids are second to none in the State in these important respects; although other cities in the country may perhaps boast of more beautiful accessories to education in the way of expensive and elaborately finished school-houses. The yearly necessity of providing further accommodations for the ever increasing school population, made a wise conservatism of expenditures in this direction imperative, yet that the Board have builded beautifully as well as wisely where feasible, let the cuts of recently erected school houses in this chapter bear witness. With the exception of three buildings, containing in all twelve rooms, the school houses are substantial brick structures, and in many cases architectural ornaments to the city. Following are short histories of the various school-houses of the city, with the names of the teachers who hold sway in each. 'THl CENTRAl. HlI(;H SCHOOL. This is in the Second Ward. The grounds have a front.of 264 feet on Lyon street, by 367 on Barclay and Ransom streets, and were purchased of G. C. Nelson, Edward L. Stevens, John Ball and Junius H. H. Hatch, a portion in I848 and the rest in 1849, for the sum of $635. On the southern line of the lot is the janitor's house. The present building, erected in I867, is of brick, three stories high, and 65 by io6 feet on the ground floor. A tower rises from the southwest corner, from the belfry of which a better view of the city can be obtained than from any other point of observation in the city. The building contains 20 rooms used for school purposes, including the new laboratory annex which has just been completed, and has sittings for 600 pupils. It is well lighted and fairly ventilated, is heated by steam and lighted by gas. The value of the property is estimated at $91,500. The lower floor is occupied by the eighth grade pupils, the two upper floors by the High School grades. The museum of the Kent Scientific Institute, one of the most valuable scientific collections in the State, occupies several recitation rooms in the building. The High School has had a SCHOOL BUILDINGS AND TEACHERS. 231 remarkably rapid growth during the last three years. The number belonging at the close of the month of October, 1885, was 292; in I886, 366, an increase of 73; in 1887, 436, an increase of 71. All the departments of instruction are in excellent condition, under the following corps of teachers: W. A. Greeson, A. M., Principal; Miss Annah M. Clark, Preceptress; Miss Marion Miss Susan Gordon, Miss N. Rogers, Mrs. H. M. Herrick, Miss Sarah A. Reed, teachers in the lower and grammar grades. Among former teachers, Prof. E. A. Strong's work has already been mentioned. Miss Ellen Dean, for eleven years teacher of English Literature and History, resigned at the close of i888 to accept the chair of English Literature in the University of Tennessee, CENT'RAl,, SC'HOOL. 'IDIN,. C()RN. I(ON ANI) \Al(-,LA SITREITS. Horsford, English Literature; Miss Carolyn Parrish, A. B., the Classics; Miss Catherine McArthur, Rhetoric; Mrs. M. C. Orth, German; Miss Agnes R. Ginn, French; C. W. Carman, the Natural Sciences; A. J. Volland, A. B., Principal of the Grammar School; Miss Emma J. Cole, Miss Carrie L. Dickinson, Miss Alice M. James, A. B., Miss E. Chesebro, Miss Kate D. Price, yet the influence of her rare scholarship and love of learning did not depart with her, but will long be felt in the schools. Miss Annah M. Clark is the veteran teacher of the High School, having been instructor therein ever since I871, and her stateliness of character and Spartan firmness as a disciplinarian, make her presence invaluable to the school. HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAP'IDS. THE UNION HIGH SCHOOL. This is located in the Seventh Ward, corner of Turner and Third streets. The lot, which has 264 feet frontage on Turner, 250 on Third street, 330 on Broadway and 125 on Fourth street, is composed of nine city lots, seven of which were purchased of E. H. Turner in i854 for the sum of $i,ooo, the other two being acquired of Mr. Turner and Ebenezer Anderson at a later date. The building was erected in 1875 to replace the old stone school house. The edifice is of brick, 82 by io8 feet, with tower, slate roof, stone water table, caps and sills, three stories with high basement, and fronts both on Turner street and Broadway. The total cost with furnishings, ventilation and heating apparatus, was $40,ooo; present value of the property, $70,ooo. The building contains I I rooms with sittings for 6o00 pupils. It was erected for the purpose of making High School privileges more accessible to residents on the west side of Grand River, and the course of study is identical with that of the Central High School in the Ninth, Tenth and Eleventh grades, the students spending the senior year at and graduating from the Central High School. Following are the teachers in this building: Irving W. Barnhart, Principal; Mrs. I. N. Catlin, Preceptress; Miss M. A. Dubridge, Miss A. Richards, Mrs. E. H. Nixon, Miss Alice A. Parker, Mrs. Florence H. Brothers, Mrs. P. L. Hamilton, Mrs. Anna S. Rose, Miss J. A. Emery, Miss C. C. Greene, Miss F. N. Hydorn, Miss J. C. Dickey, Miss Eva Ward. Some of the former teachers in this school have already been mentioned. Among others were Miss Maggie Scott, teacher of the first primary grade, and Miss E. A. Hunter of the second primary, in I867, and Miss M. E. Rice of the grammar department; Mrs. S. M. Dean of the First Intermediate, and Miss Sarah Barker of the Second Intermediate grade, for the same year. NORTH DIVISION STREET SCHOOL. This is in the Fourth Ward, corner of Bridge, Division and Ionia streets, and was formerly known as Primary No. i. The lot, which has a front of I74 feet on Bridge street by i69 feet on lonia and Division, was purchased of Chas. H. Carroll, Nov. 25, I864, for the sum of $i, ioo. The build ing is one of the oldest school-houses now in the city, is built of brick and contains eleven good rooms, with sittings for 550 pupils, including the two new basement rooms. The estimated value of the property is $38,000. The following corps of teachers are employed in this building: Miss M. E. Dwight, Principal; Miss Sarah Royal, Miss C. G. Kay, Mrs. M. Biscomb, Mrs. A. E. Lincoln, Miss H. L. Mallard, Miss F. Barkman, Miss Frances Streng, Miss E. A. Mitchell, Miss A. L. Kinney, Miss Grace E. Kay, cadet. In this building, Miss Dwight is the most experienced teacher, having served eighteen years in the city schools. SOUTH I)IVISION STREET SCHOOI.. First Ward, on the corner of Division, Bartlett and Spring streets, formerly known as Primary No. 2. The lot has i65 feet front on Division and Spring streets, by 286 on Bartlett, and was purchased June 27, i86I, of the heirs of H. S. Ellsworth, for $500. Primary No. 2, a two-story building, of which the lower story was brick and the upper wood, containing five rooms, formerly occupied the Division street front of the lot, while Spring street school, a two story wooden, four-room building, occupied the Spring street front. These buildings were removed upon the completion of the present school house in April, 1884. This building, one of the handsomest in the city, is of white brick with red trimmings, two stories, with good basements. It contains fourteen rooms, excellently lighted, and furnishing sittings for 700 pupils. The contract cost of the building without furnishings was $32,350, and the estimated value of the property is $75,000, The following are the teachers in this building for the school year I888-89: Miss Helen S. Sauers, Principal; Miss Mary Blake, Miss Mary N. Owen, Miss Lizzie Walsh, Miss C. R. Chamberlain, Mrs. A. E. Beach, Miss H. R. Hawley, Miss Helen A. Clark, Miss Myrtie Rose, Miss Abbie Chellis, Miss Georgia V. Miller, Miss Annie Walsh, Miss 0. C. Blake, Miss Gertrude Streng, Miss Julia F. Coffinberry, Miss Annie Turner, cadet. Of these, Miss Helen S. Sauers, Miss Julia F. Coffinberry and Miss O. C. Blake are veteran school teachers, having done faithful work in the schools of Grand Rapids in that capacity for seventeen, eighteen and nine SCH(OOL BUILDI1INGS AND TEACHERS. teen years, respectively. The history of the schools would not be comp)lete without mentioning the 'work of Miss Dexa E. Henry, Principal of Spring street school, who died T'hursday, September I, 1879. A page of the Annual Report of the IBoar(d of Education for the year ending September, 1879, is devoted to her memory, from which memorial tribute the following quotation is taken: tain street, between College avenue and Prospect street. This was formerly known as 1rimary No. 3. The site, having a front of 295 feet on Fountain street, and a depth of 250 feet, was bought of D1. \V. and J. Coit, September 20, 1867, for the sum of $800. The school house, a nine-room, three-story, brick structure, 6o by 8o feet in size, with sandstone trimmings, has a seating capacity for 450 pupils. It was I -7 - --- -- --, -- - = . - - - ---- - - SO()UI I VISI()N STREEI:T SCH()OOL,. Miss Henry was born October 12, I839. Her early education was obtained partly in district schools and partly in the High School of this city. After several terms of successful teaching elsewhere, she was called to this city, where for nearly twelve years she labored arduously and successfully, first as an assistant and afterward as a principal of one of the. public schools. Her superiority as a teacher was the result of her devotion to one subject -— that of bringing all her pupils into sympathy with and love for their school work, and this her broad views of education, her unusual mental resources, and her entire disregard for immediate results, enabled her to do to an extent seldom attained. FOI"()UNTAIN STREET SCHOOL. Situated in the Second \Vard on Foun18 erected in 1871, at a cost of $20,000. A small house used as the janitor's quarters is situated on the rear of the lot. The total value of the property is $35,000. The names of the teachers in this building for i888 89, are: Miss H. A. Lathrop, Principal; Miss Carrie Moss, Miss J. A. Wyckoff, Miss E. A. Creswell, Miss Kate A. Read, Miss Annie H. Read, Miss Carrie E. Burch, Miss Cora Gardinier, Miss Alta Winchester, Miss Kittie Plumb, cadet. Of these, the principal, Miss H. A. Lathrop, has served the longest, having taught seventeen years in the schools of Grand Rapids. 234 234 ~~~HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. WEALTHY AVE'NUE SCHOOL. Third Ward, on Wealthy avenue, Lafayette andl Cass streets, formerly called Primary NO. 4.. The lot IS 250 feet squlare, and was purchasedl of Joseph Penney, Septemnlber i8, 1867, for $1,75o. The school houise, built In i869, is a substantial, twostory brick building, and contains six school rooms, with accommodlations for 300 pupils. The total property is valuied at $29,000. The following are the teachers of i 888 —89: Miss M. H. Jennings, Principal; Miss Rose Webster, Miss Ida Davenport, Miss Bessie M. Carmon, Miss WV. Seegfmiller, MISS Alice B. Reed, Miss Delia W-il-de, cadet. Miss Davenport and Miss Jennings are the oldest two teachers in this buildling, having tauight twelve andl thirteen year. epc tively. (;RANDVI LLE AVENI'E, SCHOOL.. This school, formerly iPrimary No. 5, is situated in the southwest part of the First Ward, on Second avenue near Grandville avenuie. Tile lot, 130 by 264 feet, was bought fronl George H. W\Vllite & Co., Octobe~r i, 187o, at a Cost Of $2,000. The buiilding, erectedl in tile same year, was a tworooim, twvo-story lbrick structure. Additionls have been made, until tile building contains tell roomis, and with a coinmnodiois- frame annex (a separate buildingj, furnishes sittings for 500) puIpi'Is. The estimated value of the property I's 833,000. Miss Emmia Fi'eld, the principal of tllis scilool, is a veteran of the veterans, having, taugollit twentyfour years in the ralnks of Grand Rapids scolteacilers. Her cousin,MisAb Field, in the samec buillding, has seen sixteen years of faitilful ser-vice. Other teachers iln tllis building, for i8588_ 89, are: MViss H1attie E. Conrad, Miss E-,va I~iercc, Miss Mary, Morrison, M\ilss Ainna. S. Carroll, Miss Blerthla T'. Stowell, MNiss Lillian Hutnt, 'Mrs. C. ID. Rourke, and MXiss Emmla Kline, cadet. OLD) 'ITRNEE" STREET A\Ni WEST LEONARD SIFR FE, YT S CHOOLS.) Primary No. 6, or the 01(1 Tuirner street school, is in the Sixtil Wardi oil Turner street, b)etween E'leventh and Leonard streets. The lot, i 50 feet froilt on Turner witih a depthl of 1 2 5 feet, was puircilased of Isaac Edison, October 20, i866, for $6oo. A three-rooil, twvo- story wooden school hlouse was erected tilereon soon after. The building has received additionls, and now contains six school-rooms,, and'capacity for 25 9 pu'Pils. It is not at present tused for schlool purposes. Its estinlated value is $3,000. In 1872 tile 1Board of E'ducation purchased five acres of land on Leonard street in tile Sixth WVard for $2,000. Illis tract was sub~seq~uently sold, except a lot Wvitll 250 feet frontage oil Leonard street aldI 300 feet deep, oil whiclh the W~est Leonard street school-house was built in1882. Thlis building is of Grand Rapidls white lbrick withi red brick trimmings, two stories above high basement, witih slate roof and towver containing a blle1; is wvell lighted, and is heated and ventilated byv steam. It contains eigllt rooms, and accommodlations for 40 uIls Cost of buildiilg audi furnishiilg5,~ 813,200. Estimlatedl value of tue property., $20,000. Following are tile teachers for i 888 _89: M1iss Nellie Post, Iprinlcipal; Miss Amanda Stout, MTiss Carrie Ml. Oliver, Miss C. A. Banks, Mrs. Ida M. IKnettle. Miss E-. 1). Santley, Miss E'mma Taylor, Miss Lillian E. Oueal y, Miss Ge~orgia Shear, cadet. NORTH IONIA STRE'T 'SCHOOL. This is ill tile Fifth XWard, oil Jonia, between Walbridge and Coldbrook streets. and w\kas formerly ]known as Primary No. 7. The lot, 200 feet square, was purchased of Robert Cutler, June 18, i87o, for 81, 200. The rear lpart of the school Ilouse wvas b)Iiit in 870. and istostories Iii lig. The front, 46 by 75 feet, was built In 1.872, and is tllree stories \\Viti basement. 'ihe nlaterial is ibrick, and the style and design of the bulilding are gfood. It contarins eigiit commlodious roomis, with ample hails and stairways, has sittings for 456 pupilIs, aind is Ileated aild ventilated by steam. IThe value of tile property is estimatedl at S35,000.- F"ollowng are tihe teachers for 1888-59: Miss MIary- Roche, p~rincipal: Miss Hattie Fergiisoin, Miss Clara A. Roop MiWss Anna IBettes, Miss J. Richmond, Miliss A. C. Hopkins, Mr~s. J. G. Hloivin, Miss C. Ii. Fordl. Miss E'lizabetll Moloney, catiet. _JEFFERSON Si-,RiF.i SCH00L.. Thlis scihool, formerly known as Primary No. 8, is in time Etigihtl WVard. Thle lot Ilias afrontage of 132 feet each on Jefferson and Gold streets, by 264 feet on California street. SCHOOL B3UILDING(S AND TEACHERS., 35 It was bought of John Butler, October 9, i867. The house, a three-story, five-room brick structure, was built in 1870, and so designed as to permit an addition on the south end. With this addition the building now has eleven school rooms, well lighted and warmed and ventilated l)y steam, which furnish accommodations for 550 pupils. Estimated value of the property, $32,000. The teachers for the school year 1 888-89, are as follows: Miss J. C. Ahnefeldt, principal; Miss Mary Ahnefeldt, Miss Helen L. Dickey, Miss Margaret Strahan, Miss Anna Estes, Miss Jennie Gordon, Miss Fannie Hess, Miss Clara Skinner, Miss Edith Miller, Miss Julia Doran, Miss Maude Ball. CENTE:R STR1'R)J' SCHOOl.. This was formerly known as Primary No. 9. It is in the Third Ward. The grounds have a frontage of 204 feet on Center street by 200 on McDowell street, and were purchased in I874 for $2,700. The house is of brick, two stories with basement, and contained four rooms when completed in 1875. The capacity has been doubled since, and it now contains eight rooms, is warled 1) stoves, and furnishes sittings for 400 pupils. The estimated x alue of the property is $20, 00. Miss Belle M. Tower, the principal of this school, is one of the veteran school teachers of the city, having taught eighteen years, and Miss Jennie M. Miller, of thle same building, lias been in the emlploy of the Board of Edntcation as a teacher for twelve years. Other teachers in this building are: Miss Helen Christ, Miss Cora M. Riggs, Miss 1. Hitchcock, Miss Jessie Lathrop, Miss ('arolyn MI. Rice, Miss Carrie 1B. Jewett. Miss Mary Bates, cadet. I'I,: STkl 1:1'T SCHOOL.. Th'llis, fornmerly Primary No. io, is in the Seventlh Ward, having a frontage of 200 feet on First and 187 feet on Pine street. The building is of brick, 32 by 74 feet, two stories with basement, and is warmed by stoves. It was erected in 1879 at a cost of $4,200, contains four rooms and furnishes sittings for 200 p)upils; estimated value of the property, $10,ooo00. Following are the present teachers of the school: Miss Lucy Bettes, principal; Miss Bettine Orth, Miss Helen L. Turner, Miss Frances Van Buren, Miss Therese \VWurzbur, cadet. HENRY ST'REET SCHOOL. Third Ward on Henry and James streets, between \Vealthy avenue and Sherman street. The lot is 150 feet on Henry and James streets by 270 feet deep, and cost $2,500. The building, a two-story brick, 32 by 74 feet, containing four school rooms, was built in 1878 at a cost of $4,450, and was formerly known as Primary No. i. It is heated by stoves, and as now enlarged furnishes sittings for 400 pupils. The estiinated value of the property is $20,000. Mrs. F. E. P. Stephenson, principal, and Miss Lizzie R. H-Ianchet are the senior teachers in this building, the former having taught fifteen and the latter sixteen years in the schools of the city. The other teachers for the current year are: Miss Florence A. Weed, Miss Georgie L. Orcutt, and Miss Edith K. loynton, cadet. CO()I' AVENUE SCIIO()I,. Fourth W\'ard, on Coit avenue, between Trowbridge and Fairbanks streets. The lot has i50 feet front on Coit avenue by 208 feet deep to alley, and cost $2,500. The building is of brick, two stories above high stone basement, 32 by 7+ feet. It has four school rooms heated by stoves, and furnishing sittings for 200 pupils. It was built in i88o, and cost $6,400. This was formerly known as Primary No. 12. Its present estimated value is 87,000. Miss N. Campbell, Principal of this school, has had an experience of thirteen years as teacher in the schools of Grand Rapids. Other teachers in tills building are: Miss L. M. Kinney, Miss F. EI. Neeland, Miss Nellie Stanton, and Miss \Vinnie Rose, cadet. EAST I.EONARD STRLEET SCHOOL. This is the name by which the old Cold brook school building is now known, which was erected in I86o by the Trustees of District No. 6, on a lot at the corner of East Leonard and North avenue, purchased of C. WV. Taylor, for S300. The lot has a frontage of 200 feet on Leonard street by 225 on North avenue. The building is of brick, two stories in height, and contains two school rooms warmed by stoves, and furnishing sittings for ioo pupils. The present estimated value of the property is $7,000. The contract price of the building was $i,5oo. The teachers for the current 236 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. year are: Miss F. L. E. Doyle, Principal; Miss Stella Kromer, assistant, and Miss Josie Moriarty, cadet. Though nearly thirty years old, the house is still in fairly good condition. TURNER STREE1T SCHOOL. This stands in the Sixth Ward, on a lot I50 feet north and south by 250 east and west, touching Turner, Eleventh and Broad Georgietta WX. Berry, Miss Lyn L. Carle, Miss Hattie Swain, Miss Lillian Godfrey, Miss L. B. Adams, Miss Clara Ransom, Mrs. C. A. Holton, Miss Ada Barnett, Miss Mary London, Miss Margaret Doran, cadet. PIAINFIELD AVEINUE SCHOOl.. This school has a ten-room, two-story, brick building, in the Fifth Ward on Plainfield avenue, on a lot 200 feet square. The W_ _ - _ _ _ _ _ _ _.- - - = TURNER STREET SCH((OOL. way streets, which ground cost $4,00oo. ile building is among the best in the city, of white brick, two stories high, and containing twelve rooms with a seating capacity of 600. It is heated and ventilated by steam, and has city water and sewerage. The halls are l)road, and the rooms well lighted and ventilated. It was erected in J886. The property is valued at $27,000. Miss Elsie C. Smith, Principal of the school, is also its senior teacher, having seen seventeen years of faithful service. Other teachers for the current year are: Miss Mary Folston, Miss original building, erected in I884, contained only six rooms, l)ult the number was subsequently increase(d to ten, with a seating capacity of 500, at an a(l(ditional expenditure of $6,00o. It is now heated by steam, and is first-class in every respect. The property is value(l at $28,0oo00. Miss IL. J. Kromer is the senior teacher of the Plaillnfield avenue corps, having taught thirteen years in the schools of the Valley City. Other teachers are: Miss M. E. Doyle, Principal; Mrs. M. A. Randolph, MissJ. V. Pond, Miss F. M. Blood, Miss J. L. Rhines, SCHOOL ]W1ILDINGS AND) TEACHERS. M\iss J. Murp)hy, Miss Mlary Kromer, Miss Ida M. Cole, Miss AIbbie Moran', and Miss Alice Finn, cadet. SO L lii ION IA STREET SCHOOL.. This is in the First Ward. The lot has a frontage of 132 feet on Ionia by 198 ofl Fifth avenue. The building is a wooden ontwo stories high, which was moved upon the srite and fitted up in i884, at an expense of Sl,ooo. Thle school house n1ow contains four comnmodious rooms, heated by stoves, and furnishes accommodations for 216 pupils. The estimated value of the lproperty is $8,500. Mrs. Helen 3. Hood. with an experience of thirteen years as a teacher in G;rand Rapids. is Principal, and the othier teachers are: Miss Florence IN. G3reeinc, Miiss E~mily Smithi, Miss Ella Everhiart, Miss Clara Ward, cadet. I;ASTI E1RII)Gi' s'iRIKI1r Tilo Th'lis is on1 Elast B-)ri'dge street near Colloge avenue. The grounds have a frontage of 250 feet onl Bridge street and a depth of 23I feet. Tile buildiilg is a six-room, two story, whIite brick structure, erectel "In I885. It 11 es a stating calpacitV Of 3I7, is wred by six hot air furnaces, withl a grrate ini each room and Ihls water aind sewer connections. Thc x tilits of tile p)roperty i's S20, 000. MISS Libbic A. Pierce. the Principal o)f tllis schlool, div ldcts witll Miss Emlma Field, (If Graiidville avernue, the hlonor of ibeinig tile veteran teacher in tile schools of Grand Rapids, eacll laving taught twenty-four years. Other teachers in this building are: Miss Josepiline Simith, Miss H. S. Sprague. Miss Hattie M. Goodrich, Miss E. J. Kinney, Miss C. J. Steiner, Miss Bessie Goodrich. cadlet. SEVENrTH STrREET SCHOOL..o\ six-rooml, white lbrick building, erected mui 1885, at the corner of Stocking and Seventh streets. The grounds have a frontage Of 287 feet onl Seventhl street ily I 20 onl Stock~ing. The house is hleated by six hotair furnaces, is well ventilatedl is connectedl withl c-Ity, water- aull sewer, and furnishes sitting.s for- 311 ptul)'is. 11 siae valu LCOf tile prop)ertv is $ i8, ooo. The teach - ers for tile current year are: Mliss Carrie P~lank, Principal ' Miss Cornelia Wilder, Miss Kate Swain, Miss V. D. Bacon, Miss A. Corilell. 'Miss, Lucy E'. Stoddard, and Miss Flora Forsythl, cadlet. Of these, Miss Stoddard is the senior teacher, having seemi thirteen years of service in the schools of Grandi Rapids. MiADISON AVE:NUE SCHOOL.. This school stands in the Third XWard. The grounds have a frontage of 183 feet on Madison by 194 feet on Fifth avenue and 173 feet on Terrace avenue. The building-a. twelve- room, two story brick structure, with seats for 6oo pupils-was completed in i888, is first-class in all its appointments, Its cost was $21,ooo-total value of the property, $30,000. The staff of teachers at thlis school for i888-89, cornl)rises: Miss 1-attie B-ailey, Principal; Miss M. 0.Barkley, Miss H-. M. Gardner, Miss M. Web~ster, Miss Stella Laraway, Miss Libbie Arnold, Miss Lana Bishop, Miss L. S. D)avis, M ssCatherine Smith, Miss Susie B1ailey, Miss Cornelia Newton, Miss Paulille MlcLli-erson, Miss Ainnie P-ollardl, cadet. SiRAIGHlT ST I'ki'iK SCHOOL.). This stands in the Eighth Ward]. The lot Ilas a frontage Of 217 feet on Straig~ht by 1 22 on \Watson street. The old building is a two story framne dlwelling, converted into a two-rooml schlool house, and moved to the rear of the lot. This furnishes sittings for 8o pupils. Oil the main part of the site is a brick struct lre, containinig eight large rooms, and fuirnishing sittings for 363 pupi1ls, which was erected in 1885 at a cost, together with the heating apparatus, Of $17,486. 70. It I s heated lbv s teaml, has gas and sewer connections, anol is complete in every particular. The estimated value of the property is $24,000o. Following are the teachers for the current year: Miss Flora A. Cromwell, Principal; Miss M. E. Lynch, Miss Mary IildNred, Miss A. Blakley, Miss Lillian Thurston, Miss M. Ohler, Miss Amy Bertsch, Miss Mattie Dole, Miss Mauide Simmons, cadet. SCHOOL INSPECTORS. Following is a list of the school inspectors from 185o to thle abolition of the office: 185o —Franklin Everett; i85i-Thomas B. Church, John H. Hollister, Aaron B. Turner; 185 2-Philander H. Bowman; i 853-hs B.Church; i854-Jonathan F. Chubb,Thos. B. Church, Peter R. L. Peirce: i855 -Solomion L. Withey; i856 —Johin Ball; 238S IHISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. i857-George Gray; i858-John B3all; I859-Peter J. G. Hodenpyl; I86o-John Ball; I86I-Jacob Quintus; 1862-John Ball; I864-William Ashley, Jr.; i865 -Thomas Smith, John M. Ferris; I866-Erastus R. Ellis; I867-68-.Edwin A. Strong; i868-69-Stewart Montgomery; i870-Edwin A. Strong; i871-73-Anson J. Daniels. TEACHEIRS' ASS()CIATIONS. January 25, 1854, the Kent County Teachers' Institute was organized with the following officers; President,. James Ballard; Vice-President for the city (there was a vice-president in each town), P. R. L. Peirce; Corresponding Secretary, Edward W. Chesebro; Recording Secretary, Milton S. Littlefield; Treasurer, Corydon E. Fluller. The modern representative of this institute is the Kent County Teachers' Association, which reorganized at Sparta, Jan. I9, I889, with these officers: President, A. B. Chalmers, Sparta; Vice-President, Miss Myrtle Hyde, Rockford; Secretary, J. S. McDonald, Paris; Treasurer, Miss Dockeray, Rockford. Nov. I2, I88I, the Teachers' Mutual Protective Association was organized, with these officers: President, E. A. Eggers; Vice-President, Miss Emma Field; Secretary, G. C. Shepard; Treasurer, I. N. Mitchell. By the payment of a small initiation fee and annual dues, the menmbers of this association, which includes a majority of the teachers of the city, are reimbursed at the rate of $1.50 per day for time lost from school on account of sickness. The present officers are: President, G. C. Shepard; Treasurer, A. J. \olland; Secretary, Miss Agnes McIntyre. The association is prosperous, and has a snug sum laid by for rainy days in its treasury. STRAIGHT - STRE SCHOO STRAIGHT STREET SCHOOl. CH-APTER XXV 1I. ACADEMIC, PIRIVATE ANT) PARIOCHIAL SCHOOLS. 'Im': years of the village of Grand Rapids, l)efore the growth of the public schools with the High School at their head, were the palmy times for private schools. In the early (lays they quite overshadowed the poorly equipped district schools, and kept their hold upon the pllblic confidence until the establishment of the public schools upon a liberal basis made the private schools no longer such a necessity. They might wellbe called legion-they were a multitude. and no more than an enumeration and brief description of the leading ones, and their teachers, can l)e given. Certain of the pioneer schools have already been mentioned in connection with the history of the public schools, and the most important of the latter, private an( parochial institutions of learning, will be noticed in these succeeding paragraphs. July i8, 1842, Miss M. Lovell opened a school in a room' "over the Kent store," "for the instruction of Young Ladies in the French Language. Drawing and Chinese Painting," as the advertisement had it. The terms were reasonable-$3 for French and Painting, and I extra for drawing — and Miss Lovell's school received a goodly share of the patronage of the young society ladies of the village who wished to acquire the accomplishments furnished therein. (;RAND. RAl' )S CAD:.IKMV. June 6, 1842, Henry Seymour opened a select school, "in the house occupied for worship by the Dutch Reformed," at or near the corner of Fountain and Ottawa streets. All the English branches were taught, together with the rudiments of Greek and Latin, at the rate of $3.50 per quarter. Mr. Seymour continued at the head of this school, and conducted it successfully, until May, i843, when lie became principal of the Grand Rapids Academy. A movement for the establishment of this Academy be —an in Marchl, 1843, and Monday, May 6, of the same year, the school was opened in a small building on Prospect Hill. The course of study was that of a good preparatory Academy or High School-and by this latter title the school was commonly known. The price of tuition varied from $3.50 to -$5 per term, according to the studies taken-$4 extra being charged for German. The Academy for a time furnished the only facilities in the village for obtaining a higher education, and consequently was soon firmly -stablished, and numl)ered among its stulents many who are now prominent and?steemed citizens of the Valley City. By an act of the Legislature passed March II, i844, the institution was incorporated, with the following trustees: Daniel Ball, James Ballard, Francis H. Cuming, Jonathan F. Chubb, Charles Shepard, Samuel F. Butler, Amos Rathbone, and Truman H. Lyon. In October, I844, E. B. Elliott, a graduate of Hamilton College, N. Y., became principal. Mr. Elliott was succeeded in June, I845, by Addison Ballard, who was aided the following winter by C. P. Hodges, in the capacity of assistant. In October, i846, Franklin Everett, A. M., became principal; Mrs. Everett had charge of the female department as preceptress, and Miss Elizabeth White and Thomas B. Cuming were the assistants. At this time the school occupied the court house building on Court House Square, with an adjoining cottage near the southeast corner of the square, in which the female department was housed. The Academy had been moved to this location from Prospect Hill, Oct. i8, I844. After the building of the stone school house, and the organization of union schools in the district, the Academy, like Othello, began to find its occupation gone, and April i6, I851, Prof. Everett announced that the Grand RapidA Academy would close on the second of the following May. This ended 240 HIST(IORY OF THEI CITY OF GR;AND RAPIDS. the work of the Academy as a corporate institution, but Prof. Everett and his wife maintained in their residence a private academy upward of twenty years longer. FRANKLIN EVERETT, A. M., was born at Worthington, Mass., January 26, i812. His youth was passed in humble life. He inherited from his father a love of books, and with but few early school advantages, the while inured to daily toil, the mont for a time; afterward of academics at Canajoharie and Cooperstown, N. Y., and then, in 1846, canme to Michigan, taking the position of Principal of the Grand Rapids Academy. This soon became an independcnt school, known as Everett's Academy, and with the exception of brief intervals Professor Everett kept it tup until 1874; afterward teaching only a few private pupils in special studies, for which L)v scholarship he was well fitted. )During more than thirtyfive years his life was bound up in loving devotion to lhis profession, and he sought by his labors to make his teaching practical and useful to his students, to fit them for all the requirements of business and the duties of honorable citizenship. In early life he was bred to an orthodox Christian creed; but later lie grew to be an independent thinker on religious subjects, with tolerance limited only by the demands of morality and purity of life. Never laboring for popularity, lie has done i%~, a good work, and now complacently awaits the (lropp)ing of the curtain ~ Ilupon the stage of life. OTHl:R AR:xiv SELECTI' SCH(OOIS. In November, 1844, Miss Sarah P. Stevens opened a sclhool for young ladies in tupper rooms of the dwelling of C. P. Calkins, corner of Justice (now Ottawa) and Foun-..; * tain streets. She continued it for a,v^ second term in rooms on Monroe ~" street, "opposite the Rathbone Btuildings." During this same winter IT. H. Philbrick conducted, in the Dutch Reformed Church, a -'Science of Music," or as the unscientific minds termed it, "a singin' school." In the winters between 1847 and 1851, W\. K. Wheeler kept a dancing school in the National hotel, to which the young men and maidens resorted in goodly numbers in order to perfect themselves in that graceful accomplishment. Mrs. A. F. Jennison, in 1848 and 18-9, kept a select school for Young Iadies on Prospect Hill. A prosperous school of the early period was kept for some years by Mrs. Streeter, in a building on Barclay street, south of I'Ro)I. iRANKI.IN FIVIRI:TT, A. M. book was his resource for instruction, and, ambitious for self improvement, he acquired what was then called a good English education, and fitted himself for college with little aid from teachers. At sixteen years of age he began school teaching, and in the following seven years his time was divided between the school house, the farm and the sawmill. At twenty-three he entered Colby University (then \Waterville College) in Maine, and there graduated in 1838. He adopted the profession of teaching, which he afterward followed until the weight of years admonished him to give up active labor. He had charge of the Black River Academy in Ver IPRIVATE AND SELECT SCHOOLS-3BUSINESS COLLEGES. 241 Fountain. This was for both sexes, an(l was well attended, numll)ering among its plpils Miss Adelaide \Vinsor (afterward Mrs. Henderson), Mary Sheldon (now Mrs. Armstrong), the two Page boys, Aaron and Abel T., Miss Hinsdill (now Mrs. Marian L. Withey), and many others. For some time prior to 184(, a Miss Janes kept a young ladies' school on Monroe street, near Ottawa. Miss Janes was a natural instructor, and left her impress on the minds and hearts of her pupils. There are even at this day matrons of the Valley City who gratefully recall this teacher of their girlhood days, and remember the loss they felt when she resigned her school to become thle wife of \Villiam Parks. In the fall of 1848, Mrs. E'. T. Moore had a "school for youlng ladies and Misses," at her residence, south side of Monroe street, above Waterloo. In I853 Mrs. Moore kept a children's school on Lagrave street. Auglust i, I854, Miss H. S. l)e Pew opened a '"cottage school" in a building opposite John B1all's residence on East Fulton street. This was a small but vigorous school, and had an existence of some three years. In December, 1856, a "School for Painting" was kept in Collins Hall, at the corner of Canal and Erie streets. It NwNas short-lived. From I855 to I857, inclusive, tile Rev. O. H. Staples conducted a select school for young ladies. In the beginning it was kept in ratller cramped quarters, as may be judged from thle following which appeared in the Daily EaIle, in July, 1856, in a description of tlie commencement exercises at the close of a term: The parents generally of the pupils were present, and the young ladies acquitted themselves it is said, remarkably well, considering that the thermometer was ioo' during the day, the school room seven feet high, and hoops 3/2 in diameter. The school opened March 2, 1857, in more commodious quarters, at the corner of Bostwick and Lyon streets, in a gtavelcement house which still stands there. Mr. Staples was assisted during the first two years of his school by Miss Laura Prentiss, and during the later year by Mrs. Mary E. Bryan. The course of study embraced the branches usual in High Schools. Miss Prentiss, after her retirement from 19 Mr. Staples' Academy, with Mrs. D. Ives, of Detroit, opened "A New Select School for Young Ladies and Misses" in rooms over J. WV. Peirce's store on Canal street, in which instruction was given in the common Englislh branches, together with vocal and instrumiental music. For some twelve years prior to I882, the Misses Bacon kept a training school and kindergarten in tlle Winsor stone house at the corner of Jefferson avenue and Washington street. The Rev. Isaac Powell is teacher of an excellent private school at his residence on North College avenue. The '"writing school,'' the forerunner of the commercial college, flourished almost fromn the beginning of the settlement, but not until the community had grown to considerable proportions came its more ambitious development. In June, i851, William and Garret Barry opened a "Mercantile Academy" in McConnell's block, for the teaching of book-keeping, mathematics, penmanship, and the other commercial branches of learning. In i852, Joseph J. Watson opened a small private school at the corner of Monroe and Ionia streets, for the teaching of architectural drawing and drafting, which was well patronized for some time by young mechanics. In the spring of I857, Prof. M. P. Clark conducted writing classes in the Union schools on the east and west sides, and a special class in "Ladies' Epistolary \Vrit ing." In the fall of 1859 a course in book-keeping was added to the curriculum of the East Side Union School, and Prof. Charles J. Dietrich was chosen to teach that branch of study. In addition to his work in the public school, he, in i86o, taught "Dietrich's Mercantile Institute" in Luce's Block on Monroe street. To Professor C. G. Swensberg is due the credit of gi\ing to the city her first permanent commercial college founded January 25, 1866. He infused into this school the sterling integrity and straightforward business methods which have placed him in the front rank among the business men of the city and these qualities soon gave the Grand Rapids Business College a place among the best educational institutions of the West. The college offices and school 242i HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. room are in the Ledyard Block. The institution is now under the management of A. S. Parrish, who became proprietor recently, upon the retirement of Prof. Swensberg. For many years this college was without a rival in the city, but lately three similar institutions-The Valley City Business College on South Division street, J. U. Lean's Business College and Shorthand Institute, and Prof J. W. Welton's College, in the Shepard- Hartman building-have been established, and are in a prosperous condition. CONRAD G. SWENSBERG was born near Cassel, Germany, September 20, i835; the son of George, C. and Elizabeth (Baxteine) Swensberg, whose only other child was Mary, now the wife of the Rev. J. Kolb, of St. Paul, Minn. The Swensberg ancestry were prominent in military and civil circles among the people of their Province. When the boy was eleven years of age, the family came to America, and settled at Linnwood Grove, Erie county, Ohio, where he followed the routine of farm life until, in 1857, they moved to Muscatine, Iowa. There, having lost most of their property in the memorable financial revulsion of that period, his parents died in the following year, and thus the two children were left to depend upon their own resources. Deciding to abandon farm life, the boy secured employment in the Iowa State Stirvey. While thus engaged he was a close student, and labored assiduously to acquire useful knowledge. \Ve next find him a clerk on a Mississippi river steamer for a time; after which he entered upon a regular course of study at Oberlin College. When President Lincoln issued his call for volunteers, though then suffering from illness, he sought enlistment in the Seventh Ohio Infantry, but, owing to the feeble state of his health, was not accepted. Recovering, after being confined for some months to his bed, he enlisted and was assigned to the I27th Ohio Infantry; was soon Assistant Adjutant of Camp Cleveland, then Commissary Sergeant of his regiment, and in this capacity served until near the close of the war. Mr. Swensberg came to Grand Rapids in January, I866, and on the 25th of that month opened the institute known as:he Grand Rapids Commercial College, which for nearly twenty-five years has been recognized as among the most prominent educational institutions in the country. Its graduates, numbering thousands., may be found occupying responsible and profitable positions in all parts of the Union. Hundreds of prominent business men in this and other States credit their success to the thorough training received at the hands of Prof. Swensberg and his assistants. After a quarter of a century of successful work as an instructor, he retired from the active management of the college, to devote more attention to numerous other commercial and industrial interests with which he has for many years been financially connected. Prominent among these was that of the publishing company of the T7/eegram-Hcrald, a daily morning newspaper, of which corporation he was one of the organizers, and is now President and principal owner, the paper having in a short time taken rank among the foremost in daily journalism. As a writer he wields a vigorous and always earnest pen. He is President of the Valley City Milling Company, who are proprietors of the Grand Rapids Roller Mills and the Globe Roller Mills; was one of the founders of the Phcenix Furniture Company, is now one of its Directors and heaviest stockholders; and was also one of the founders and the first President of the Aldine Manufacturing Company. Besides the above, he is a Director in the Grand Rapids Savings Bank, and in the Grand Rapids Safety Deposit Company; a stockholder in the Grand Rapids National and Fourth National Banks; a Director and Vice-President of the Grand Rapids Street Railway Company, and financially interested in several other industrial and mercantile enterprises. He has been instrumental in the establishment of several that are among the foremost of their kind in the world; such as the Bissell Carpet Sweeper Company, the majority of his associates in that being graduates of his College. Every laudable infant industry has found a warm friend in Prof. Swensberg. Ile has been identified, also, with movements for the mental improvement of Grand Rapids, and in this field took the initiative in establishing a free library, giving it much attention. He was one of the organizers -of the Y. M. C. A., and to that work gave much time and energy; and in that connection opening a free reading room which for \ - f i / '/" V / II/ i B3IOGRAI'HIC SKETCH-SWENSBERG. 243 many years was regarded as a public benefaction. In the Y. M. C. A. he has held the offices of Secretary, Treasurer and VicePresident. He is a regular attendant of St. Mark's Episcopal Church, has been for many years a member, and was for some time a vestryman. In politics Prof. Swensberg has been an ardent Republican from the organization of that party; was an election-return Delegate to the State Capital of Iowa after the election of Abraham Lincoln for President; but has never had any aspirations for office, preferring to devote his energies to his profession, his college and his various business connections. Prof. Swensberg, A1ugulst 5, I875, married Hattie MI., dalghter of Abraham and Phw-be (Moffit) Drake, of Howland, Trumbull county, Ohio. She was born at Howland, July 20, 1845. Her father dying when she was four years of age, she was placed under the guardianship of Judge John Ratliff, and, he testifies, developed intellectual faculties of rare excellence as she grew to womanhood. She resided in Grand Rapids for a short period of time some years before her marriage, and here had many dear friends. She was a mnost tender, loving and lovable person, kind, generous and forgiving, with much strength of character and firmness of mind, and a devout Christian lady,. Mrs. Swensberg died at Grand Rapids Nov. II, 1878, leaving motherless a (laughter but twentyone months old, and a wide circle of loving friends to mourn her departure. Letters from General James A. Garfield, and others; memorial resolutions and tributes to her memory by the Ladies' Literary Club and Drake Relative Association, and expressions from the college and other school circles where she had been known, all speak in terms of affection, and in high praise of the character and talents of Mrs. Swensberg. Before her marriage she had been several years a teacher in the public schools and Central High School of Cleveland, also one year at Olivet College. In Grand Rapids slhe won loving and abiding friendshlips. She was here a regular attendant in St. Mark's Church, and was elected an honorary life member of the Ladies' Literary Club, to which she contributed many interesting papers, and in the development of which she was an earnest worker. The only child of Prof. and Mrs. Swensberg is Bertha Melita, born at Grand Rapids, Jan. 25, I877; the one above referred to as left motherless in early infancy. She possesses many of her mother's traits and accomplishments, and, with life and health, has a bright prospect. Studiously ambitious, she is rapidly acquiring knowledge and talent, and wins loving friends by her gracefulness and amiability. Early in life she was taught lessons of thrift and perseverance, and at six years of age won first and second prizes on fine needle work at the West Michigan Fair, and the McHenry County Fair of Illinois. That Prof. Swensberg has won flattering success in business life, is evident from the wide range of his financial interests. That he has won warm-hearted and steadfast friends is also apparent. One of these in Ohio enthusiastically remarks as follows: In the line of humanity and whole-souled liberalitv, Mr. Swensberg stands in the van. I have not full opportunity, nor is there space, to eulogize upon the character of one whose hand, heart and mind are active in unostentatious well-directed benevolence. Suffice it that his charities are unmeasured, his courtesies are constant, and he is warmly esteemed in every community where he has lived. On the walls, desks and shelves of his well-appointed offices we see indications of business, of friendship,- of taste, of manliness, of good sense, and of large-hearted generosity. In conversation he listens attentively, speaks deliberately, and wastes no idle words; while he betrays a high-strung, thoroughly disciplined organization Mr. Swensberg has always taken great pleasure in helping the poor and needy, not publicly, but quietly. He believes that we are on earth to do good-to be humane, philanthropic, benevolent-in a practical way-in intercourse with our fellow-men. He believes in doing good while we live, and not in waiting till after death. Another friend who lhas been intimately connected with him in business and social circles for twenty-five years, says of Prof. Swensberg: He is exemplary in his habits, and has a quiet, unassuming way that makes for him many stanch friends. His domestic (ualities are refined. Few, seeing him in every-day, plain, unobtrusive associations with business men, would realize the force of the pent-up sentiment within. Though unflinching in his exactions of justice, he is yet tender as a child in the exercise of the finer feelings. Mr. Swensberg does not believe it necessary to sink the man in order to make the merchant. We are certainly fortunate in having such men in our midst. In a material sense the life-work and success of Prof. Swensberg furnish a good example to the youth of what may be accomplished by steadiness of purpose, welldirected energy and unremitting assiduity. 244 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. By those has he profited and prospered. And undoubtedly hundreds of his pupils have gained good and lasting impulses from his counsels as an instructor. ST ANDREW'S ACAI)EMY. In the years I853 and I854, Peter G. Koch, a theological student, kept a school for Catholic children at the corner of Mon'oe and Ionia streets. This "academy" vas under the patronage of the church, but t was not until several years later that a 'egularly equipped parochial school —St. Andrew's Academy —was established. It was chiefly through the efforts of the late Father P. J. McManus, that this was accomplished, and the present well-appointed two-story brick school house was erected in 1871-72 on the corner of Sheldon and Maple streets, at a cost of $20,000. In I877 the academy was organized under the present system, the instruction being given by the Sisters of Mercy. The Rev. T. L. Whalen is the present Superintendent of the school, which is attended by a large percentage of the Catholic school population of the city. The Academy grants diplomas, and the course of study is extended and comprehensive. It is especially notable on account of the thoroughness of the instruction given in instrumental music. The other Catholic parochial schools of the city are St. Adelbert' s (Polish) on the east side of Davis street between Fourth and Fifth streets, conducted by the Felician Sisters, and St. Mary's (German) on the corner of Broadway and First streets, taught by the Sisters de Notre Dame, who also conduct St. James' school on West Bridge street near Michigan, and the recently established school in St. Alphonsus parish, which is under the control of the Redemptorist order. ST. MARK'S ACADEMY. March 20, i850, the State Legislature passed an act incorporating an institution of learning in Grand Rapids, under the title of St. Mark's College. The female preparatory department was opened June 3, i850, in the vestry rooms of St. Mark's church, with Miss J. A. Hollister in charge. The male preparatory department, under D. D. Van Ant-wierp, was ready for the reception of pupils Sept. 9 of the same year. The Rev. Mr. Taylor was President of the col lege, which seems to have come into existence before there was a demand for it, never developed far beyond the preparatory stage, and expired after a short life of three years. In St. Mark's Academy, however, established in September, I887, as a parochial school, the old college has a vigorous young successor. The recitation rooms are situated just above the chapel, and are spacious, well lighted and well ventilated. The departments 'of study, comprising the Kindergarten, Preparatory, Primary, Intermediate and Academic, are in charge of an efficient corps of teachers, with the Rector, the Rev. Dr. Campbell Fair, at the head as President of the Academy. The other Protestant denominational schools of the city are the Theological School of the Holland Christian Reformed Church on Williams street between Spring and South Ionia, under Professors G. E. Boer, and Gerrit Hemkes, in connection with which a Holland Protestant school is maintained in charge of Meinhard Van der Meer; the German Lutheran Emanuel schools at o6 East Bridge street, Andrew Beyer, Principal, and at the corner of Second and Pettibone streets, under the principalship of A. Gerlach; and St. John's German Lutheran school, corner of Mt. Vernon and West Bridge streets, conducted by the pastor, Rev. Adolf Schmidt. THE KINDERGARTEN. There is one school which, although supported by a Christian society, is yet entirely undenominational in its character. Oct. i, i888, the Kindergarten Circle of the King's Daughters-a religious order having a membership in nearly every evangelical Protestant denomination of the city-established a free kindergarten and creche at 397 Ottawa street. Miss Emma Chamberlain, a professional kindergartner, has charge of the school, which is intended for the children of the poor. Soon after opening it had an attendance of 22 children, the ages ranging from 3 to 7 years, and the colors from white to brown and black. Mrs. Mary Williams assists in the kindergarten work, and has charge of the "creche" or "cradle," a department whose object is the caring for babies whose mothers are obliged to work away from home. On her way to work the mother may leave her baby at the creche, where it KINDERGARTEN-ART SCHOOLS. 245 is cared for and amused until she calls for it in the evening. Although this institution was so recently established, it is doing a good work, and deserves a long life of usefulness. The Kindergarten Circle of the King's Daughters contains 48 ladies, each of whom contributes time or money toward the work. ' The circle was organized in July, I888, with the following officers: President, Mrs. I-I. M. Joy; Secretary, Mrs. J. IH. Campbell; Treasurer, Mrs. A. J. Daniels. It is estimated that 2,500 children are receiving educational instruction in these private and parochial schools. A considerable number of pupils, however, especially among the Hollanders, attend both classes, going to the private school of their own nationality during the summer, and to the public schools the remainder of the year. This fact partly explains the existence of two smaller private Holland schools; one on Logan near East, and one at the corner of Alpine avenue and Tenth street, in addition to the large Williams street school already mentioned. Besides the institutions for book learning already enumerated, the city-in a school for mechanical drawing, one for free-hand and artistic drawing; modeling in clay, casting and wood carving; two for oil and water-color painting; two for vocal music; several dancing schools, and a school of elocution —possesses ample facilities for training all the faculties of its children, whether they be of hand or heart; of voice or eve or brain. CHAPTER XXVIII. LIBRARIES, SCIENTIFIC INSTITUTE, SCHOOL SOCIETIES AND LADIES' LITERARY CLUBS. THE PUBLIC SCHOOL II BRARY. As early as I843 a small library was established by the Grand Rapids Lyceum Association, the nucleus of which was a chest of books discovered in the attic of some school house, and brought hither by a young lawyer. Some additions were made from time to time, chiefly by private gifts, until its catalogue showed two or three hundred volumes, mostly small, and miscellaneous ill character. About i85o, by a formal vote, the association turned them over to the Mechanics' Mutual Protection lodge, and the latter added to the library somewhat both by purchase and from contributions. When the M. M. P. dissolved, in 1859, this library, with its other property, was distributed among the individual members. Many volumes of it are still preserved in private libraries. In the early part of i858, a movement looking toward the establishment of a public library was set on foot. February 24 a "large and enthusiastic" meeting was held in Luce's Hall "for the purpose of organizing a Mercantile Library Association within the city of Grand Rapids." The Rev. F. H. Cuming presided. The following preamble and resolution were adopted: WHEREAS, History and experience have conclusively demonstrated the truth that a Public Library is an indispensable necessity in every well-regulated community; A'esolzved, That this meeting deem it expedient and necessary, both for the credit of the city and the proper improvement of society, that such an institution be speedily founded in our city. Committees on constitution and by-laws, and for the solicitation of funds, were appointed at this meeting. Further initiatory steps were taken at subsequent meetings, and the name was changed to the Grand Rapids Library Association. At a meeting held May 5, i858, the organization was perfected by the election of the follow ing officers: President, William J. Welles; First Vice-President, -Henry Martin; Second Vice-President, Eben Smith, Jr.; Corresponding Secretary, John King Dunn; Recording Secretary, Thomas C. Boughton; Treasurer, Norris T. Butler; Managers, S. B. McCray, William Hovey, F. B. Gilbert, P. J. G. Hodenpyl, Charles H. Taylor, George H. Hess, Harvey Gaylord. The association was an incorporated stock company, and began work with ninety-six members and fifty —one stockholders, a library of 771 volumes of selected works, and $769. 14 in the treasury. Quarters in the Luce block were rented, and a librarian hired at a salary of $15o a year. Thomas B. Church delivered a dedicatory address before the association in the evening of May 14. In November, 1858, the library was moved into rooms in the then new eastern part of Lovett's block. After the first enthusiasm had subsided, the financial support began to fall off, and the annual reports of the executive committee in those days tell a story of a hard struggle. Lecture courses were instituted to retrieve the failing fortunes of the Association, but receipts were far below expenditures, and year by year it fell behind financially, until in October, i86i, it was obliged to mortgage its library and fixtures for the security of a debt of $250. November 5, i86i, in default of payment, and the Association being without resources, the managers, Thomas D. Gilbert, N. L. Avery, P. R. L. Peirce, and S. 0. Kingsbury, so adjusted the matter that the property was transferred to Eben Smith, Jr., as trustee, in satisfaction of the mortgage debt. Within a short time after this, the Association gave its library, numbering 855 volumes, to the Board of Education of District No. i. It was then removed to the Central School building, and consolidated with the Public School Library. A small library of less than one hundred 'I'TIE PUBLIC SCHOOL LIBRARY. volumes had been collected by the district at an early date, and was kept in the garret of the old stone school house. This library had received several considerable additions, among others the property of an organization known as the City Library-and with this new acquisition numbered some 2,000 volumes. A room in the tower of the Central school house was occupied by the consolidated library. According to the terms of consolidation, members of the Library Association were entitled to the use of its volumes free of charge. Pupils of the several schools of the district were required to pay fifteen cents each term as a registration fee, for the maintenance of the library. Residents of the city not members of the school were given the privilege of the library (lduring the school year upon the payment of a registration fee of thirty cents. Owing to the location of the library, however, the circulation of the books was not general among citizens. THE LA1)E I 'AKE HOLD ). With the organization of a ladies' club in 1869-70, begins the story of an important phase in the history of the Public School Library. A Ladies' Reading Club (the germ of the Ladies' Literary Club) had been organized during that winter, under the inspiration of a series of historical lectures delivered by Mrs. L. H. Stone, of Kalamazoo, and this club felt the need of books. The school library was practically inaccessible, and the ladies resolved to have a library of their own. Mrs. L. D. Putnam, Mrs. S. L. \Vithey, Mrs. S. L. Fuller, Mrs. A. J. Daniels. Mrs. 0. A. Ball, Mrs. H. J. Hollister, and many other prominent ladies, set about the work of raising funds, and in a comparatively short time $1,200 was obtained. With this sum a room was fitted up and Miss Frances E. Holcomb was placed in charge of the library of 1,000ooo volumes. The membership dues were an initiation fee of $2, and an annual fee of $i, none but members being allowed the use of the library. The first year this City Library Association, as it was called, had 300 members, and it continued to prosper until its library contained I,200 volumes of history, biography, travels, miscellany and fiction. After an experience of a year and a half the ladies came to the conclusion that the interests of all concerned would be better served by uniting their library with the school library, and a small library of 50 books belonging to the Y. M. C. A. Accordingly committees were appointed, composed of A. L. Chubb and James H. McKee, on the part of the Board of Education; Mrs. S. L. Withey, Mrs. L. D. Putnam, Mrs. W. A. Howard, and Mrs. L. H. Randall, on the part of the City Library Association, and Harvey J. Hollister, C. G. Swensberg, and Edwin Hoyt, Jr., on the part of the Young Men's Christian Association, who agreed upon a basis of union involving substantially the following points: First, that the books of the Ladies' Library be used in conjunction with the other two libraries; second, that a committee composed of an equal number of members from the Board of Education and Ladies' Library be selected as directors for the general care of the library and the selection of new books; third, that in the selection and appointment of Librarian, other things being equal, preference be given to a lady; fourth, that the library be situated in a central and convenient location. The first joint committee selected in accordance with this agreement, consisted of the following ladies and gentlemen: Moreau S. Crosby, C. G. Brinsmaid, James H. McKee, A. L. Chubb, Mrs. S. L. Fuller, Mrs. W. A. Howard, Mrs. L. H. Ran(dall, Mrs. L. D. Putnam. The new organization went into effect, and the library was opened Dec. 21, i87I, in rooms on the second floor, north side and near the foot of Monroe street. Miss Frances E. Holcomb, the librarian of the Ladies' Library, was continued in office under the new regime. This union brought together 4,045 volumes, derived from the following sources: Library of School District No. i, 2,564 volumes; the West Side School Library (formerly kept in the Union School building and open to the public), 200 voliumes; the Ladies' Library Association, 1,231 volumes; the Y. M. C. A. Library, 50 volumes. The consummation of this union, and the removal of the books to an accessible central location, were events which made the library a power in the community. Previously its usefulness had been restricted to the schools, and to the comparatively small membership of the Ladies' City Library Association. Now the library was open to the whole public, the people generally were interested in its welfare, and the institution began at once to expand. Volumes were added by donation and pur 248 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. chase, ana the circulation increased rapidly. During the first year 3,000 people availed themselves of the privilege of drawing books. Each year the number of books added to the library increased, until measures for their removal to more commodious quarters became necessary. This was effected in 1875, when the library was reopened to the public with enlarged facilities in the second story of the Ledyard Block. Even these rooms became cramped by the expansion of the institution, making a considerable enlargement necessary before the removal of the library to its present location in the City Hall, in October, I888. There it occupies commodious quarters, where it can live and grow until the city, appreciating its work, shall give it a fire-proof home of its own, perhaps in conjunction with the Kent Scientific Institute Museum. In December, I876, Miss Holcomb, having become Mrs. C. R. Bacon, wished to retire from the office of Librarian, and the joint committee from the Board of Education and the City Library Association, were unable to agree in naming her successor; the ladies recommending Miss If. S. Nash for the office, the gentlemen nominating Mrs. Alfred Putnam. The gentlemen triumphed, and in January Mrs. Putnam was installed as Librarian for the year i877. At the close of the year there was another disagreement, the ladies and two gentlemen of the committee recommending Mrs. George Lee, and a minority reporting in favor of the continuance of Mrs. Putnam. Mrs. Putnam was re-elected. These disagreements resulted in the dissolution of the union between the Ladies' Library and the Public Library in i878. The ladies upon retiring took with them the 1,200 books originally belonging to their association, which eventually came into the possession of the Ladies' Literary Club, and now, with additions, constitute the library of that organization. It is in order to say here that the ladies during their connection with the Public Library were untiring in their efforts to promote its welfare. In many of the library committees' reports to the Board of Education, acknowledgments of the services of the ladies are made in terms of the highest praise. THE NEW MANAGEMENT. Since the separation the government of th'e library has rested entirely in the hands of the Board of Education. Mrs. Putnam continued to serve as Librarian until January, i884, when she was succeeded by Mrs. Frances C. Wood, who worthily performed the increasingly arduous duties of that office until February, i886, when she was relieved by the present incumbent, H. J. Carr. In October, i888, Mr. Carr accomplished an arduous task in the rearranging of the library, made necessary by its removal to the new City Hall library rooms. Much remained to be done in the way of cataloguing before the library could be completely reduced to system. Appreciating This fact, the Board of Education, at its regular meeting in January, i889, employed Miss Grace Denio, of New York, an expert cataloguer, for this especial work. The rapid growth of the library may be better comprehended upon a study of the following statistics gleaned from the Librarian's report to the Board of Education for the year ending September, i888: The whole number of volumes in the library at the beginning of September, i887, was 17,243; in September, i888, it contained 2I,500 volumes, an increase during the year greater than the total of volumes in the library at the time of the consolidation in i871. The number of volumes at present is twice as great as the total in i88o-the institution thus growing more rapidly than the city, which, according to the United States censuses of 1870 and i88o, requires about ten years to double its population. Of the present library i6,649 volumes are in the circulating department; 535 are general works kept in the reference library, together with 1,305 magazines and periodicals in the same department; and 8tr are 'reserved stock" or books which are unclassified and not used either for reference or circulation. Classified according to languages, there are in the library 20,465 books printed in English; 516 in German, 457 in the Holland, and 47 in other tongues. During the past year the library was open for the drawing of books 308 days, and 98,059 volumes were issued for home use to the holders of 6,158 library cards. The largest issue in a single day was on St. Patrick's day, 1888-734 volumes. HOW SUPPORTED. In her public school library Grand Rapids has an institution of which cities of twice her size might justly be proud. The library, although under the control of the Board of Education as a part of the public school system, since I871 has been free to every resident of Grand Rapids. Special reference libraries are provided in nearly all the schools for the exclusive use of pupils. LAW LIBRARY-KENT SCIENTIFIC INSTITUTE. 249 Funds for the running expenses are provided by appropriations from the Board of Education. These appropriations, amounting to from $3,000 to $4,000 yearly, are absorbed mainly in the payment of salaries; the Librarian receiving $1,200 per annum, and his four assistants receiving $400 each. The funds derived from the application of criminal fines as provided by State laws, varying from $1,500 to $2,ooo a year, are usually sufficient for the purchase of new books and reading matter. Between $200 and $300 is also collected annually from fines charged for over-due books, the sale of catalogues, and other items. Miss Lizzie Steinman, Miss Lucy lBall, Miss Emma C. Boxheimer and Miss Lizzie C. Leet, constitute the Librarian's efficient corps of assistants for the year 1$888-89. TH' 1, I I RARV. Besides the Public Library, the only other important public collection of books in the city is the.Grand Rapids Law Library. The Law Library Association was organized by prominent members of the bar December 15, i886, and incorporated under the laws of the State, with a capital stock of $20,000. The association was, by the Hon. Julilus Housemnan, tendered the lease of a suit of rooms for ten years, rent free, in the fourth story of his new block on Lyon street, to be occupied by the Association's Library and offices. This offer was accepted, and the library was opened for use September i, 1887, with 3,600 volumes on its shelves, covering a wide range of legal knowledge. The following were the original officers of the association: President, T. J. O'Brien; Treasurer, Mark Norris; Clerk and Librarian, Lincoln B. Livingston; Directors, Jacob Kleinhans, George P. Wanty, Edwin F. Sweet, T. J. O'Brien, and Mark Norris. To obtain the privileges of this library, it is necessary to present a written application to the clerk, stating full name, residence and business of the applicant, and, if a lawyer, the number of years since admission to the 'bar. If the applicant is not a stockholder to the amount of $Ioo, he must give bonds to that amount. The dues assessed upon members of the Kent County Bar are $25 per annum for lawyers, and half that sum for students and clerks. This library has already proved a valuable assistance to the bar of the city, and is constantly growing in 20 usefulness as the number of its volumes is increased. KEN'T SCIEN', IFIC IN STITUT'IE. In i855 a society was formed tinder the name of "Grand Rapids Lyceum of Natural History." Its principal active members were A. 0. Currier, John Ball, James H. McKee, Charles Shepard, Franklin Everett, Joel C. Parker, W. L. Coffinberry, Win. G. Henry and Wml. H. DeCamp. Its meetings were held with a good degree of regularity until the breaking out of the War in 186i, when the organization was suffered to (lie out. The original intention was to establish with it a museum and library. Prof. Everett had a cabinet of minerals, geological specimens and fossils, which he used in his academy, and Mr. Currier and Dr. DeCaimp also had fine collections. These were placed in the room of the society, as loans for its use. Of these the owners restlimed possession after its apparent decease. During its active existence, the discussions of the Lyceum, on natural history and cognate scientific subjects, were entertaining and highly instructive. In i865, George Wickwire Smith, a lad whose genius outran his years, gathered about him a number of youths in the Union School, and organized a club which he named the Kent Institute. He was a young man of rare promise; though modest and diffident, he had the irresistible ardor of enthusiasm as a student of Nature which kindled a like spirit in his associates. Simple, child-like and loving, he won the confidence and warm affection. of all who came in contact with him. But consumption had laid its wasting touch upon him, and he; sank under it, dying March 31, I869, when but 21 years of age, in Florida, saying to his weeping father: "Bury me where there are the most butterflies." In I867, young Smith, desiring to put, before his death, his Kent Institute upon a permanent footing, proposed to those who had been members of the Lyceum of Natural History, that tihe' two societies be combined. This he accomplished — the articles of association bearing date Jan. 2, i868, under the name, suggested by him, of Kent Scientific Institute. This Institute grew and prospered from the very start. Its first officers, elected Jan. ii, i868, were: President, John Ball; Vice-President, A. L. Chubb; Recording 2Io HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Secretary, W. H. McKee; Corresponding Secretary, George Wickwire Smith; Treasurer and Librarian, C. H. Winchester. The objects of the Institute were stated to be: "The increase and diffusion of scientific knowledge by a museum, library, lectures, the reading of original papers, and other suitable means." The names of John Ball, A. 0. Currier, A. L. Chubb, James H. McKee, G. Wickwire Smith, C. H. Winchester, Theo. B. Willson, Frank W. Ball and John Mathison are affixed to the Articles of Association. January 12, i869, an alliance was formed between the Board of Education and the Kent Scientific Institute, by the terms of which the latter has since had the use of certain rooms in the Central School Building for its museum and for its business and public meetings, and also of the scientific apparatus of the school; and on the other hand the students and teachers of the school have the privilege of using the scientific specimens and the library of the Institute. When this contract was made two new officers were provided for-a Director and Curator —to be nominated by the Institute and confirmed by the Board of Education. Under this arrangement the organization has a vigorous existence, holding meetings twice a month for discussions and the transaction of its general business. THE MUSEUM. When the reorganization took place under the name of Kent Scientific Institute, those who had formerly contributed l)y loans of exhibits to the Lyceum of Natural History, presented them to the new society. From that small nucleus its museum has grown to be among the finest scientific collections in the West. In 1874 Prof. E. H. Crane's collection of Indian relics was purchased. The museum also has valuable archaeological relics that are largely the product of W. L. Coffinberry's researches in the Indian mounds hereabout. The mineral collection is large, and from almost all parts of the world; and the department of fossil material is well filled. Of mollusca the Institute owns some 2,000 specimens, and, through the enterprise and generosity of Mrs. Cordelia T. Briggs, has in its keeping the Currier collection, comprising a much larger exhibit of shells. A. 0. Currier was an enthusiastic conchologist, of national repute, and the discoverer of several new species. Dr. W. H. DeCamp has also been a large contributor to the museum. It contains over 600 specimens of North American birds, comprising nearly a complete exhibit of Michigan birds, and 21 representative specimens from South America. In 1887 the Institute contracted with Prof. E. L. Moseley, who was about to go to the Philippine Islands, to supply the museum with 100oo species of the birds and mammals of that region. He brought those and more, including a large fruit-eating bat. The collection also contains a great variety of specimens of the lower orders, such as reptilia, lepidoptera, crustacea, beetles, fishes, and other marine animals. The herbarium has some 725 species of plants, collected by N. Coleman, a former member of the Institute. The collection has grown so large that more room is needed for its display and proper care-a suitable museum building. At the annual meeting of the Kent Scientific Institute, Jan. 4, I889, the following officers were elected: President, Dr. E. S. Holmes; Vice-President, Prof. W. A. Greeson; Secretary, Prof. C. W. Carman; Librarian and Curator of the Museum, Prof. E. L. Moseley; Director for six years, C. S. Whittemore. There are forty-five active members of the Institute. HIGH SCIHOOL AUMNI SOCIETIES. At a meeting of former pupils and graduates of the High School, June 14, I869, steps were taken to organize "The Society of the Alumni of the Grand Rapids High School." July 2, i869, the organization was perfected, with the following officers: President Moreau S. Crosby; Secretary, \Vilder 1). Stevens; Treasurer, Cyrus E. Perkins. The association held several reunions, but as its members grew older, their interests in it waned-sixteen and sixty do not consort well socially, and as the members of the later classes (lid not join, it gradtually wasted away. Yet, in the city directory, at least, it was maintained until i884, when the officers reported were; President, E. A. Strong; Vice-President, Cyrus E. Perkins; Secretary, Miss Jennie D'Ooge; Treasurer, F. Emery Tuttle; Orator, Theodore IB. Willson; Poet, Miss Nellie Withey; Marshal, Reynold J. Kirkland. The present High School Alumni Association, organized in 1887, designed to include the class of HIGH SCHOOL SOCIETIES, LYCEUMS AND CLUBS. 251 1885, and all thereafter, has the following officers: President, Edward C. Haak; VicePresident, Stanley A. Emery; Secretary, Fred E. Matter; Treasurer, Manning A. Birge. Its reunions, so far, have been basket picnics at Reeds Lake, without formal programme. FHIG H SCHOOL FRATERNITIES. During the winter of i884-85, the juniors and seniors in the High School organized a club, with the inscrutable (or possibly medical) name of M. D. This shortly developed into a secret fraternity, with ritual and initiation ceremony. The M. Ds. have since admitted to their fraternal circle, members of other classes in the High School, have adopted a badge of golden design, and the order seems to be flourishing, financially and otherwise. It is indigenous to this locality, and has founded no cognate chapters. The Delta Sigma Delta, was organized as a local school society in the early part of i885. About a year later it became a branch or chapter of the Gamma Delta Psi, a fraternity organized some years previously in the schools of New Haven, Connecticut, which, besides this at Grand Rapids, has four other chapters, in Connecticut, Maryland and New York. The badge of the fraternity is a golden crescent, enclosing the Greek letters of its name. In I887-88 it published as its organ a neatly printed magazine called The7 DCt//an. Though a warm rivalry exists between the M. Ds. and the Gamma Deltas, these societies give promise of permanence. HIGH SCHOOL AND OTHER LYCEUMS. The earliest lyceum or debating club of record here, was the Grand Rapids Lyceum, which existed from i837 to I844, and held its regular meetings in the school house on Prospect Hill. John XV. Peirce was Secretary. A Young Men's Association held meetings for debate at the same school house from I84I to i844. Among the disl)utants or debaters in those days were: George Martin, Simeon M. Johnson, Charles H. Taylor, Sylvester Granger, Aaron B. Turner, Solomon L. \Vithey, Wilder D. Foster, James Ballard, John Ball, Thomas B. Church, William G. Henry and John T. Holmes. Their discussions took a wide range, including most of the leading political and social questions of the time. In the fall of 1847, a debating society called The Students' Lyceum was organized, and had weekly discussions during the winter months. Its original members were: Albert Baxter, Milo Blair, Zimri XV. Burnham, Henry Naysmith, J. L. Bosworth, Edgar L. Gray, E. Konkle, Corydon E. Fuller, Cyrus C. Bemis, Augustus Hanchet and C. M. Hopkins. Henry Naysmith was Secretary, and Milo Blair, President. In the following year the society adopted the name of Union Lyceum-President, Henry Naysmith; Secretary, Albert Baxter. It had twenty-one members. This society held its meetings at first in the Court House on the Public Square, and afterward at Everett's Academy rooms. Abel T. and Aaron B. Page, James Blair, Byron Morton, Isaac H. Nichols and James N. Davis were among its members. In i866 the Grand' Rapids Debating Club, of which Birney Hoyt was President, held meetings in the Circuit Court Room. A modern successor to the Young Men's Association, organized in i86o, in I885 had as President Andrew J. Reeves, and as Secretary, Edwin Avery. With the consolidation of the schools in I871, begins the history of literary clubs and debating societies in the High School. Their membership varied with the personnel of the school, but usually included the brighter minds and the better orators. The High School Lyceum of I876-77 became divided into two parties-Liberals and Conservatives, giving rise to many contests in debate. In such contests, also, the Grammar School Debating Club took part. In i 885 the young ladies had organized a lyceum of their own, from whose sessions males were excluded. The lyceum of 1886-87 whose first officers were: Adnah C. Newell, President, and Manning A. Birge, Secretary, distinguished itself by publishing ten numbers of the Highl Schtool yournal, a creditable monthly paper. Its editors in succession were: Carroll R. Godfrey, Harry L. Creswell, W. H. \Wood, J. C. Farwell and F. J. Whitfield. The officers of the High School Lyceum, January, I889, are: President, Roy Barnhart; Secretary, Henry Kalmbach; Treasurer, W. Perkins. HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC CLUB. This was organized in the spring of I883. Its first President was Willis Field. With HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. out an instructor, and with no regular hours for exercise, it has done very little systematic work. It is popularly known as the Gymnasium Association. At its election, January 22, 1889, the following students were chosen as officers for the next six months: President William Huighouse; Secretary, Elliott Norton; Treasurer, Arthur Leonard. LADIES' LITERARY CLUB. The present Ladies' Literary Club of Grand Rapids, of over four hundred members, is the outgrowth of a small history class organized in 1869, under the leadership of Mrs. L. H. Stone, of Kalamazoo. The mental and social enjoyment of the members increased to such extent that in 1872 they organized themselves into a literary clul) for the study of history, art, science and literature-President, Mrs L. D. Putnam; Vice Presidents, Mrs. Z. E. Bliss, Mrs. S. L. Fuller, Mrs. S. L. Withey; Treasurer, Mrs. M. S. Crosby; Secretary, Mrs. A. C. Torrey. In April, i882, the club was incorporated. As it grew in numbers the difficuly of finding a room of sufficient size for its use increased. Hence, in December, i886, a committee was appointed to solicit funds to the amount of $6,ooo for the erection of a building for club purposes. Mrs. George C. Fitch, Mrs. D. M. Benjamin, Mrs. Cyrus E. Perkins, Mrs. J. C. FitzGerald, and Mrs. H. J. Hollister, composed the committee, and quickly accomplished their mission. The club purchased a lot on Sheldon street for $3,500, paying $500 down. The Board of Directors appointed Mrs. H. J. Hollister, Mrs. L. I). Putnaml and Mrs. Henry S. Smith a building committee. Plans and specifications drawn by \W. G. Robinson were adopted, and building commenced immediately. The corner-stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies, July 30, I887. The structure was completed and occupied by the club December 31, 1887, and on the evening of January 2, i888, a reception was given there at which the members welcomed hundreds of their friends. The Literary Club House is two stories high at the front, with a lofty single story in the rear for the auditorium or main llhall. It is of the Italian order of architecture, built of Amherst, Ohio, blue stone and Grand Rapids pressed brick, with terra cotta trim mings, slate roof, and windows of stained and French plate glass. It has a large reception hall, a fine banquet room and a commodious toilet room. Its library room is 23Y2 by 241 feet, with woodwork and furnishings of oak. The handsome side-wall decorations were the work of A. H. Fowle -his gift to the club. The library and hall open into the auditorium, and by means of. doors sliding upward the library and auditorium are made into one room when occasion requires. The seating capacity of the auditorium is for four hundred persons, and it has a stage and two dressing rooms attached. The ceiling is dome shaped, with center skylight, and finely frescoed by Thomas Nash as a contribution to the club. Its handsome woodwork, mantel, mirror and other furnishings, including valuable articles of ornament and utility presented by friends, render the interior of the house both beautitiful and home-like. Organized for " literary and scientific purposes," the society is non-sectarian in character. While allowing individual expression on religious, social, philanthropic and political matters, collectively it is not connected with any other institution. Working for the advancement of women mentally, it takes no position upon the question of universal suffrage. As a club it is simply interested in pro moting the mental culture of its members, ant in adding to a library for the advancement o\ that interest. Officers elected in October, 1888: President, Mrs. J. Morgan Smith; Vice President, Mrs. Henry S. Smith; Recording Secretary, Mrs. C. R. Bacon, Secretary, Mrs. Eidward Watson; Treasurer, Miss Amelia Blackman; Directors for two years, Mrs. James Rogers, Mrs. George C. Fitch and Mrs. M. S. Crosby. There are six Directors, those holding over being Mrs. L. P. Rowland, Mrs. F. Immen and Mrs. A. J. Daniels. The office of Librarian is held by Miss H. S. Nash. WEST SI I)E I,AI)IES' I ITERARY C1,CU}. April 3, I875, fourteen ladies responded to a call made by Mrs. A. J. Rose and Mrs. Wellington Hibbard., for the purpose of forming a club for mutual improvement. They met at the home of Mrs. Rose, and organized the West Side Ladies' Literary Club. President, Mrs. P. M. Goodrich; Vice-Presidents, Mrs. E. t1. Ketcham and Mrs. A. J. Rose; Secretary, Mrs. PE. B. LADIES' LITERARY ASSOCIATIONS.,;,3: Escott; Corresponding Secretary, Miss H. A. Lathrop; Treasurer, Mrs. J. \Viddicomb. Committees were appointed, course of study outlined, and details for work planned. At first they met at private houses, but the growth of the club soon enabled them to rent rooms in the Martin Block. June 19 of that year the block was destroyed by fire, which occurred while the club was in session, and the ladies by an effort saved their property. They then for a time met in the parlors of the Presbyterian and Methodist churches, meantime securing rooms in the new Scribner Block, then building, which they occupied in December with a membership of seventy-five, easily paying the rent of $Ioo per year, and adding much to articles for use and comfort in their new quarters. Private donations of books and other things also aided them much. For several years the society kept up its membership to nearly its maximum, but as the novelty wore off many dropped out, leaving only those who were earnest workers and still clung to the original idea of self-culture. Its growth has not been so much in numbers as in edtlcational progress. Financially it has been able to sustain its place of meeting, and every year meet its necessary expenses, and its real work has been steadily carried forward to the satisfaction of all those who did not desert the ship. \Vorks of history, of art, science, English, French and American literature, and educational and religious themes (avoiding doctrinal and sectarian controversies), have been the subjects of their studious attention and discussion. In its social aspects, the friendly feeling engendered, and in its-recreations, the experience of the members of the club has been valuable to them. Presidents of the society have been, successively: Mrs. P. M. Goodrich, Mrs. E. H. Ketcham, Mrs. H. J. Felker, Mrs. I. AM. Turner, and Miss H. A. Lathrop -with one exception none occupying the chair less than two years. Officers, i888: President, Miss H. A. Lathrop; Vice-President, Mrs. H. A. Felker; Secretary and Treasurer, Miss Lizzie Robinson; Corresponding Secretary, Miss Sila Hubbard. Place of meeting, No. 40 West Bridge street..LAIES' LITERARY CU HOUSE_, BUILT IN 1887. LADIES' LITERARY CI.UB HOUSE, BUILT IN I87. CHAPTER XXIX. ART-P-HOTOGRAPHY, PAINTING AND MUSIC. IHO'I ()OTO l RA PH V. A F Ew years before this wonderful art was discovered and developed, a French scientist, lecturing on chemistry in Southern Europe, exhibited to his audiences images of natural objects as pictured by the use of the lens of the camer(a obstuia, or darkened chamber. At the close of one of his lectures a woman with pale face and careworn features approached him and anxiously inquired if he thought it possible to fix these beautiful camera pictures for preservation. He expressed the opinion that he thought it might be done, and the woman, apparently much relieved, said that her husband had been working at the problem until she feared that he might be crazy over it. This woman was the wife of Daguerre, who in 1839 gave to the world his invention of the silver daguerreotype, and received from the French Government a life pension therefor, of 6,00ooo francs. The daguerreotype was made on a silvered plate of copper, coated with a sensitive surface of iodide of silver upon which the image was received and fixed by development over the fumes of hot mercury. It is to this day undoubtedly the finest and most delicate miniature picture made by a pencil of light. Almost simultaneously with Daguerre's discovery, Wm. H. F. Talbot, of England, succeeded in fixing those camera images on paper, discovering the essential principle of photography, in September, 1840 -both processes having for their base of photographic action the sensitive salt known as iodide of silver. As early as I814, Nicephone Niepce, of Chalons, France, began experimenting in heliography. He died in I833, and Daguerre, who had been his associate in the investigation, continued the work and perfected his process-an exemplification of the sentiment expressed by Ralph W\aldo Emerson: "'Truth is in the air, and the most sensitive minds are the first to seize upon it." In 1840, Dr. J. \V. Draper, of New York, was the first person to apply this invention to the making of miniature portraits from life. Before this, it had only been used to make pictures of outof-door views and scenery. In Draper's first experiments the sitter was required to remain motionless in bright sunlight for at least two minutes. To- day fine portraits are made in less than two seconds. Less than six years after the publication of the results achieved by Dr. Draper, came the daguerreotype artist to Grand RapidsD. Williams, who, in 1846, opened rooms in the Irving Hall block, being the first in that line, according to the published accounts. Next came A. H. Proctor, in October, i848, whose rooms were in Mechanics' Hall. In November, I849, S. B. Noble appeared, advertising "late and valuable improvements" in daguerreotypes. In May, i850, C. M. Fox was in the business at Irving Hall, where in July of the same year he was succeeded by G. A. Hanchet. In April, I85I, A. H. Proctor removed to Irving Hall and in June following to Faneuil Hall; Charles F. Moore taking the Irving Hall place, and putting out his sign as an ornamental painter and daguerrean artist. In November, i85I, Lorenzo Buell, so well known to all the older residents of Grand Rapids, opened daguerrean rooms in Faneuil Hall block, and in June, I852, Proctor & Buell joined in partnership at the same place. Proctor, a few years later, moved away, and Buell removed his establishment to the Taylor & Barns block, on Canal near Lyon street, where, in i86o, he was burned out, after which he went into the drug business. Lorenzo Buell came to Grand Rapids in I849. He was a genial, wide-awake citizen, always feeling a personal interest in public affairs, but holding aloof from public life, and universally esteemed. HIe died August 21, I888, at the age of 82 years, and is ART - PHOTOGRAPHY, PAINTING ANI) MIUSIC. 2.5.5 kindly remembered for his social virtues and sterling uprightness. In August, 1852, among the pioneers here in that art, 0. W. Horton opened operating rooms on Monroe street, in a wood building opposite the head of Waterloo street, and was the first here to fit tip a skylight for photography. He continued in the work twenty-six years, when, in I878, he retired from all but the enlarging of portraits, in which he is still doing a thrifty business and making some fine pictures. In I853 D. D. S. Nestell opened daguerrean art rooms on West Bridge street, in connection with "Scribner's Arcade Hall of Pharmacy." About i855 began the supplanting of the old-fashioned but beautiful daguerreotype by the ambrotype; a sun picture at first made on white glass and backed by a black surface underneath; afterward made on black or colored glass, and then for fragile glass was substituted a thin iron plate with enameled black surface, constituting the "tin-type" of the present day. Until the paper photographs came into general favor and use, these miniature daguerreotypes and ambrotypes were put tip in neat cases of morocco and velvet, to adorn parlor tables; the cheapest at the date last mentioned being made for $i to $I.5o0 each, anti few homes in this city are without such souvenirs. About this time also came the process of enlarging miniature pictures, for making portraits in crayon or oil finish. Several such painted by Harting are extant, and much prized. In September, 1855, A. C. Alger opened daguerrean rooms in Backus block. From 1857 to 1859, in this work of making sun pictures were (). V. Horton, Lorenzo Buell, Fred. G. Heath, Carlton Neal, B. F. Pierce and Edward S. Wykes, and in I857 one of these artists first advertised here "A new style of picture, the Photograph on Paper' A beautiful picture which excels the steel engraving." Nevertheless this class of work did not fully supplant the others until some four or five years later. Fred. G. Heath opened rooms at first in Luce's block, in 1857, removed to Lovett's block, where the firm was 1Heath & Neal, then to 21 Monroe street, and afterward to the McReynolds block, continuing in the blusiness until I874. In the spring of i86o J. H. Tompkins and his brother, Ira G. Tompkins, came from Buffalo and opened a gallery on Monroe street, opposite Waterloo, subsequently removing to Canal street, where they severally continued in the business ten to fifteen years. Ira G. Tompkins, of the "Star Gallery," on Canal street, became well known in this line, about 1870-72, in connection with his large group of pictures of old settlers, and with another, "The Bar of Grand Rapids," several copies of which are now extant, and are highly prized. He also, as early as i866, produced a large number of outside or landscape views for use with the stereoscope. Edward Wykes had his gallery on Monroe street, north side, a little above Waterloo, and was succeeded in I864 by Warren Wykes, who came here from Pittsburg, Pa., is still one of the leading photographers here, and whose name is familiar to all in the city and the country round about. During the war time, from i86o to i865, the principal photographers in the city were known about as follows: Fred. G. Heath, 21 Monroe street; 0. \V. Horton, 41 Monroe; L. A. Merrill, I5 Monroe; Edward Wykes (succeeded by his brother \Varren), 46 Monroe; J. H. Tompkins, 30 Canal; I. G. Tompkins, 35 Monroe. Space will scarcely permit mention of all the later artists in this line. Some of the well-remembered names, including several now in business, are: H. W. Boozer, J. G. Barrows, L. G. Bigelow, H. T. Fletcher, J. F. Minkler, A. A. Baar, L. V. Moulton, Samuel Sharpsteen, Simon \Ving, tHutchinson & Bayne, James Bayne, B. D. Jackson, J. B. Goossen, D. H. H-lamilton, T. B. Perkins, David Thoms, lidward McDermand, Andrew Hansen, A. A. LeClear. During the exciting war time a large business was done in photography. The departing soldier in his uniform and the sorrowful wife, parent or child at home exchanged photographs, and by many a suffering heart in later years these little gems have been prized beyond measure. Thus did this art bless the nation, with its mementos of loved ones, almost above anything else cherished in the homes of affection. During that time photographers reported incomes of from $3,000 to $5,000 per annum for each operator. At the present time, with twenty or more galleries in the city, besides much work in the furniture line, the aggregate of business done annu 2)>() HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. ally is estimated at from $40,000 to $50,000, giving steady employment to more than half a hundred persons. The wholesale trade in photographic supplies amounts to upward of $20,000. If a Grecian column in the public square is as beneficent as a church, how much could be said of photography; or who could put a limit upon its emotional or artistic influences, in the development of taste, culture and refinement in the hearts of the people? ART PAINTING. Though comparatively a young city, and engaged most largely in the rugged pursuits incident to a formative period and material upbuilding, Grand Rapids is not without a goodly number of fine-art devotees. Her people appreciate the beautiful in art, and especially as displayed in drawing, in pencil sketching and painting, as well as photographic productions. Forty years ago Chas. F. Moore showed taste and talent in portraiture, and some of his amateur pieces were much admired. He removed to Florida, which was afterward his home. Mrs. Ezra T. Nelson quite early attracted attention as a delineator in water colors and in oil, and still retains her love for the art. In the fall of I851 a class in mon0ochromlatic painting was taught for some time il rooms at the National Hotel, by teachers from the preparatory class at Ann Arbor, and a number of young ladies and gentlemen there cultivated their tastes and talents in that line of work. Marinus Harting, who came to Grand Rapids in i854, and resided here during the rest of his life, was an artist of much genius. Hte was a native of Delft, Holland, and received his early education at Rotterdam. Landscape painting was the specialty in which he was drilled, but later in life, after coming to America, he developed taste and aptitude for portrait work also. His first studio here was on the north side of Monroe a little west of Division street, from which he removed to the corner of Ottawa and Pearl, and thence, about i856, to a small cottage just north of Lyon street on Ransorm, where he resided and kept a studio during the rest of his life. He soon gathered a class of ambitious young students, among them Fred. Church and Lawrence Earle, who have won much more than local distinction, Annette Henry, Sarall Nelson, Mary Cuming, Maria Winslow and Mollie A. Kingsbury. Several of the larger landscape pieces painted by Harting are still preserved and highly valued by the owners. Personally, he was a very attractive man, his countenance aglow with the enthusiasm born of love for his art, an eager student of Nature in all phases and moods, imaginative, kind, genial and loving in spirit, gentle and deeply religious in feeling. He died in the spring of I86i, just prior to the breaking out of the War of the Rebellion, at his cottage home on the brow of the Lyon street hill, much beloved and greatly mourned. In 1857 A. J. Conant, a painter of considerable merit, opened a studio and made some fine portraits from enlarged daguerreotypes. He remained hlt a short time. Mrs. William Ashley, a daughter of John W\. Squier, did some clever work in china decoration, by the "firing" process, and also produced very pretty flower pieces in water colors. Among other local artists have been Mrs. L. H. Randall, Mrs. B. A. Harlan (now of Washington), Mrs. Tinkham (landscape painter and teacher), Mrs. G. C. Fitch, Mary Luther Barclay, Mrs. Torrev and Mrs. E'. M. Coppens. Miss Hattie M. Drake (thle late Mrs. Swensberg) came to Grand Rapids in the fall of i866, and opened a room for teaching painting and drawing; also exhibited some fine samples of her landscape work at the County Fair. Fred. Church, of well-known celebrity in New York, and who has a national repute in the line of art illustrations, and Lawrence C. EParle, whose specialty is game painting (flesh, fish and fowl), were both students of IHarting, and have won enviable distinction in their lines. \Villiam Howe, who of late has taken honors in Paris for fine animal pictures, was for a time, when he began his studies, a resident of Grand Rapids, and clerk in the dry goods trade. In i888 lie was awarded a medal at a Paris exposition. Peter E. Rudel, a self-taught artist in the beginning, not many years ago a worker at the plasterer's trade in Grand Rapids, has become noted in Parisian art circles. J. G. Fisher, of Grand Rapids, has of late won marked distinction in New York as a crayon sketch artist, in which profession he began the exercise of his taste and develop ART —IHOTOGRAI'HY, PAINTING AND MUSIC. 257 ment of his skill while employed as an engineer in this city. William Kortlander has lately produced some paintings of Ottawa Beach scenery which have attracted the attention of art connoisseurs, and been much admired. Mrs. E. M. Coppens and Miss E. S. Hutchins have a very pleasant and attractive art studio on Ottawa street, where they give instruction to many pupils, and where many fine pieces in painting and pastel work are shown. Frank Selzer is budding into prominence as an animal painter, of cattle, horses and sheep, and as one nears the pictures of the latter, it almost seems as if the wool might Ibe pulled, so natural appears the fleece. Art work, and the trade in art goods and artists' materials, are increasing much as the city grows. Among the attractive rooms are those of Mrs. P. C. Tabor, Miss Julia Kirk, Mrs. R. C. Graves, and A. H. Fowle, the latter a well supplied establish-ent, both for exhibition and sales. \. L. Knowles and O. W\. Horton have also a neat and tasty studio in which may l)e seen many fine samples of enlarged an( shaded photograph work, especially in portraitiire. VO(CAL, AN'D INS'I'RU.MEN'I'AL. MU'SIC. It is not easy to give a local history of music. Every neighborhood and circle has its musical genius, vocal or instrumental, who in the opinion of somebody is the best, or at least the peer of any, in all the country round. The natives of this valley were not a musical nor music-loving people; yet even among them now and then one was known to possess musical talent susceptible of cultivation. The white people of this community, from its start, have been lovers of mutsic, furnished their share of trained musicians, and been liberal patrons of the art. As early as i837 were singing societies or choirs, often with instrumental accompaniments, that for some years thereafter held rehearsals and sometimes amnateur concerts, in an upper room of a store on \Waterloo street, in the old Yellow Warehouse near by, or in the National Hotel. Inasmuch as every church society has its singers, it is needless to dwell upon the growth and multiplication of singing classes and choirs. Of the first regularly organized choir in St. Mark's Church, some forty-six 21 years ago, two are living at the time of this writing —Mrs. Thos. B. Church and Amos Hosford Smith. Vocal music as an art, as well as for worship and a means of recreation and amusement, has been assiduously cultivated in this community. January 23, I852, the choir of St. Mark's Church gave a concert which drew an audience that filled the building. The choir members then were: Mrs. T. 13. Church, organist; Mrs. P. R. L. Peirce, soprano; Leonard Bement and Charles McConnell, tenor; Misses T. M. Moore and Emma S. Rathbone, alto; A. Hosford Smith and P. R. L. Peirce, bass. The first church organ in this part of the State was set up'in St. Mark's Church, in September, I849. In I840 was organized the Harmonian Band, comprising: Henry Stone, fife; John W. Peirce and Henry G. Stone, snare drums; Leonard Covell, bass drum; Harvey K. Rose, bugle; A. H. Smith, piccolo; Abram Snively, violin, and somebody played or screeched the clarinet. Though not quite iup to the modern finish in the art of instrumental melody, this amateur band made merry niusic for young and old, on holiday occasions and balmy evenings during several years. Among early teachers of vocal musicsinging masters they were called-were H. H. Philbrick, 0. B. Galusha and Edmund Bement. 'lThe fashion was to secure a list of pupils and charge to each a given sum per quarter for tuition. As the town grew, the organization of private classes, or the giving of private lessons, including piano instruction, became more the custom. In 1856 Miss M. A. Farnham, Mrs. D. Ives, and others were thus teaching, and at the rooms of a musical association in Collins Block, H. J. Danforth gave lessons in vocal and instrumental music. Mrs. John C. \Venham, and others of the Bliss family, were prominent in musical circles and at concerts about this time. Mrs. Wenham was gifted with a fine voice, enriched by enthusiastic cultivation; and after coming to Grand Rapids she sang as soprano some eighteen years in St. Mark's Church. Mr. and Mrs. John C. Wenham came in from Ohio in I855. Here he platted \Wenham's addition, and has accumulated a handsome real estate property. They are yet residents, and she still exhibits much interest in vocal music. 258 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Among singers of local celebrity in later days, the names are familiar of the Misses D'Ooge and Buell, and Mrs. Levanche Shedd (nee Stone); the latter, especially, gifted with an enchanting and finely cultivated voice. To attempt a further singling out of names among the multitude of good singers and scores of teachers, in our now populous town, is needless, and would appear invidious. But here it may be remarked that upward of twenty years ago Emma Abbott drew her first appreciative and encouraging audience in Grand Rapids. The Neill Conservatory of Music has been an established institution of Grand Rapids since i884, when it was organized by the united efforts of Mrs. E. S. Neill, G. C. Shepard and F. M. Lawson. Of some 150 pupils about one-third are from abroad. Its chief branches are instruction upon the piano and pipe organ, and cultivation of the voice. The rooms are in the old Shepard cottage, on Ottawa street. It is managed jointly by Mrs. Neill and Mr. Shepard, assisted by others in different departments. Reverting to early musicians-undoubtedly the first bugler in Grand Rapids was Alanson Cramton, in 1835, and he appears to have held the field some five years, so far as entertainment of the public with bugle music was concerned. Robert M. Barr was the first fiddler, and after him were John Ellis, Fidius Stocking, John Powell, Chester B. Turner, and others-these, with a few associates, furnishing music for dancing parties here and about until the town grew to city stature. Mortimer Jeffords was with them, with flute, fife, piccolo or cornet, as occasion required. In I845, a Mr. Marston, from Detroit, opened a school in instrumental music, and organized the Grand Rapids Brass Band, which furnished musical entertainment for a fair held December 30, in Irving Hall, by the ladies of St. Mark's Church, and gave a "grand concert" January 26, 1846, in the Congregational Church. The first silver instrument band - full- dressed, doublebreasted, bullion-bedecked, with two rows of gilt buttons-was organized in I855 by W. H. Barnhart, and named the Valley City Cornet Band, and this kept up a lively existence till near the breaking out of the civil war. Joseph W. Weller was its second leader. It was in much demand at political parades and festive gatherings. The German people are lovers of good music, and enthusiastic in musical training as an art. And very quickly after their immigration here began, they began also to become citizens and to form musical associations. Their influence has done more than any other agency to cultivate and improve the taste for and appreciation of classical and the higher orders of music. Among them Peter Schickell, nearly forty years ago, developed expertness on string and brass instruments. In 1854 he was teacher of the Valley City Band, the predecessor of Barnhardt's Valley City Cornet Band. In 1857 Ferdinand Siegel was regarded as the best violin performer in the city. A German Brass Band of twelve pieces was organized in 1857, under the leadership of Franz Blasle. Valentine Rebhun, as an expert with the drumsticks, as Drum Major, and music teacher, is well remembered. He went to the war, and afterward died at Kalamazoo. Of band organizations in more recent years have been: Pioneer Band, A. Siegel, leader, in i872. Arion Gesang Verein, H. Baroth, director, in I873. Commandery Band, C. H. Jones, leader, and Hubbard & Barker's String Band, H. E. Barker, leader, in i875. Knights Templar Band, W\. Babcock, director, I876. Germania, W. S. Turner, leader, 1878. Second Regiment Band, C. T. Hennig, leader, 1880-82. Powers' Opera House Opera and Squiers' Cornet Band and Orchestra, 1882. Squiers and Guthan's Brass and String Band, I884. In i886 there were half a dozen, ~'nd in i888 a dozen or more bands and orchestras. The business has so grown that only on rare occasions and with performances of superior character do the musical pageants almost daily and nightly on exhibition excite general and enthusiastic attention. The principal musical societies of i888 are: Alberta, Germania, St. Cecilia, Harmonie and Oratorio Singing Societies; Schubert Club and Maas Choral Society. There are others of more or less note. The list of professional music teachers numbers fifty or more. Among the more prominent are A. H. Morehead, Henry C. Post, Francis M. Lawson, and \Wilbur Force. Dealing in music and musical instruments began in a small way more than thirty years ago, and it now amounts to a large trade in the aggregate. Julius A. J. and Paul W. Friedrich have been in the business many ART-PHOTOGRAPHY, PAINTING AND MUSIC. 259 years, a portion of the time in partnership, but of late Julius by himself is handling large stocks in pianos and parlor organs, as well as other instruments and all sorts of musical wares. George D. Herrick & Co. have a handsome business in this line. James W. and Frank \V. York (father and son) are music publishers and manufacturers of band instruments. They have also published a journal devoted to the craft. PIANO MANUFACTURE. "M usic hath charms to soothe the savage breast," and Grand Rapids contributes her share of the civilizing element, in a large and growing piano factory; in fact one of the largest in the country. In 1858 the Chase Piano Company was started in Ripley, Ohio, by M. J. Chase, for the manufacture of pianos under his patents; he and his four sons constituting the force. In I867 they removed to Richmond, Indiana, where for seventeen years they continued the enterprise. Early in I884 the increase of their business and need of better shipping facilities, induced them to come to Grand Rapids. Buying out the plant of Mcintyre & Goodsell on Ionia street, in July of that year they began building a factory on South Front street at the corner of Valley. This was a four-story building, 75 feet front by 92 feet deep, which in the spring of i888 was enlarged by a three-story addition, 75 by 92 feet, with abundant yard room for seasoning lumber before placing it in the dry kilns. The factory is equipped with the best of machinery for the manufacture. In this enterprise there is an invested capital of $85,000 or upward, giving em ployment to I25 skilled men, and enabling the company to put out about $50o,ooo worth of goods annually. The business office and salesroom are on Monroe street. Owing to the length of time it takes to make a piano, complete in all its parts, and the difficulty of securing the skilled labor necessary, the enterprise, although firmly established, is of slow growth. The factory is large enough for making twenty-five pianos weekly. They have standing orders for their product from houses in widely separate sections of the country, in numbers of five to ten pianos a month; carload shipments to Maine, California, Texas and other distant States being an event of frequent recurrence, as they make no retail shipments to points outside of the State. They make a specialty of upright and parlor grand pianos; and, with the advantages of skilled labor, the cheapest and best point for procuring all kinds of lumber used, honest work, and scientific brain-work producing certain distinctive features in their instruments covered by patents owned by the Chase Brothers, it is not to be wondered at that they have attained a superior reputation for their pianos. When the factory was removed to Grand Rapids the name of the firm was changed to Chase Brothers Piano Company. It is composed of Clarence A. Chase, who superintends the mechanical operations in the factory; Braton S. Chase, in whose charge is the finishing and action of the piano; Leon E. Chase, whose attention is given to regulation of the tone, and Milos J. Chase, having the general management of the business. CHAPTER XXX. THE PRESS OF GRAND RAPIDS. NEWSPAPERS are supposed to reflect, to a certain extent, the intelligence of the community wherein they exist. Yet the stream which flows from the fount of the press is not a limpid, lazy, purling brook. Rather is it a rapid stream, yet somewhat turbid withal, whose mission it is to turn the wheels of the mills of society along its banks, more than to make precise pictures of the objects whose shadows fall across its rippling currents. In the United States, newspapers are potent, if not the very chief, agents in the development of communities; and upon their establishment and success depends largely the degree of enterprise and progress that prevails. There was no newspaper in that village by the Hudson which has become famous through the prolonged slumber of one of it residents; if there had been, the enterprising editor of the Taarr)'lown Hferald would not have allowed the disappearance of so prominent a scapegrace as Mr. Rip Van Winkle to go unchronicled-he would have investigated the mystery, and so bustled about that neither poor Rip nor any other sleepy villager would have been able to finish his nap in peace. Reasoning from such premises, the surprising rapidity and solidity of growth which Grand Rapids has enjoyed, and the wide-awake spirit which has characterized her citizens, would seem to show that the newspaper had exerted its influence here at an early date; and such is indeed the fact. THE GRANI) RIVER T IMES. April i8, I837, less than four years after the permanent settlement began, the first number of the first newspaper in Grand Rapids, or in this part of Michigan, was issued. It was a weekly, six-column foliofour pages 15'2 by 21 I inches-comparing well in size with many of more recent date. The following was the announcement at the top of the first column of its title page: GRAND RIVER TIMES, Printed and published every Saturday Morning at the Rapids of Grand River, Kent County Michigan. BY GEORGE W. PATTISON, EDITOR AND PROPRIETOR. TERMS.-Two dollars and fifty cents per annum in advance, three dollars at the end of six months, or four dollars at the end of the year. Subscribers paying within thirty days from the tiime of subscribing will be considered ill advance. VII.I.A(; Subscribers, having their papers left at their door, will be charged fifty cents in addition with the above prices. AD I VERTISING(;-For twelve lines or less, three insertions, One Dollar-and twenty-live cents for every additional insertion. Longer advertisements charged in proportion. A liberal discount made to those who advertise by the year. No paper discontinued until all arrearages are paid, unless at the option of the publisher. FANCY, JOB, AND) BOOK I'RINTIN(,, done with neatness and despatch at this office. The story of the establishment of this paper was some years ago related to a newspaper reporter by Mr. Pattison, of which the salient points are these: The Kent Company purchased, for about $4,000, the office material of the Niagara Falls Journal, and in the fall of 1836 shipped it from Buffalo on the steamer Don Quixote. The boat was wrecked off Thunder Bay Island, and the press and material were transferred to a sailing vessel, reaching Grand Haven late in the season. When it was landed, Mr. Pattison purchased the printing outfit for $4, ioo. During the winter he had it brought up the river on the ice by dog trains-six dogs to a sled. The sled which brought the press broke through the ice some miles below the Rapids, and went to the bottom of the river. The press was fished out and brought to town. The issue of the first number of the Times was a grand event, and nearly all the prominent citizens were at the office to see it come off the Washington hand press. Mr. Pattison relates that Loutis Campau subscribed for 500 copies for a year, paying $i,ooo cash in advance; that the Kent Company took 500 subscriptions and paid in advance, and a large number of other persons took from ten to twenty-five copies each, which were widely circulated. The first copy was printed on silk-satin, and T'lE PRESS OF GRAND RAPIDS. 2"1 given to Louis Campau. Others were printed on cloth and distributed for preservation as souvenirs. The general news part of the paper was not copious. To get news from Detroit required from four to six days. It had occasionally a letter from Washington, written by some Government official. The Times was neatly printed, and in appearance would not suffer by comparison with most papers of the present time. Its publication office at first was on Canal street, a little south of Lyon. It was the official paper of the county, and printed the list of tax sales. The work was clone by Mr. Pattison and apprentices, among whom were: James and John Barns, and Aaron B. Turner. In the spring of 1838, the Times was sold to Charles I. \Walker, who in Janulary, I839, sold it to James I-I. Morse and another. It was then suspended for a time, and job printing alone carried on, in a small wooden blilding near the corner of Kent and Bronson streets. The paper had another short run about the time of the Harrison campaign in I840. It was not partisan politically, but both Whigs and Democrats were given opportunity to air their views in its columns, which they eagerly did. THE GRAND RAPIDS EN(QURER. On or about May 18, I841, James H. Morse & Company began the publication of the Grand Rapids Enquirer (weekly). Its office of publication was on "Bronson street, one door east of the Book Store" (now Crescent avenue, opposite the county building site). Associated with Mr. Morse was Simeon M. Johnson, in business and as editor, who named the paper, he being an ardent admirer of the Richmond, Va., Enquirer, a leading Democratic journal of those days. At first the paper was professedly non-partisan, but in editorial sentiment was evidently Democratic. February 22, i842, Johnson was succeeded by Ezra D. Burr, and from that date until May 31, I844, the publishers were J. H. Morse & E. D. Burr. Burr was editor during that time, and until August, 1844. Meantime, in November, 1842, the office had been removed to Canal street, over Granger & Ball's store, wlhich was where is now the Grinnell Block. J. H. Morse & Co. continued the publication until April I9, 1845, when Mr. Morse died. I-le was an industrious man and a practical printer, and although but twenty-eight years of age at the time of his death, had endeared himself very much to the community, and nearly all the villagers were in attendance at his funeral. After this event the firm name for a few months was M. E. Morse & Co. (Mrs. Morse and Mrs. Stevens). After November 3, 1845, the publishers were D. C. Lawrence & Co. (Dewitt C. Lawrence and Jacob Barns). June 5, i846, and after, the firm name was Jacob Barns & Co. Robert M. Collins was at one time a partner. The name of Charles H. Taylor appears with that of Jacob Barns in the files of the paper, June 13, I849, and disappears May i, i850. Subsequently the firm was composed again of these two men, who continued until after the establishment of the Daily Enquirer in I855. Thomas B. Church was editor from February, 1845, to April, I847; after him Charles H. Taylor for a year or two; then Thomas B. Church again until January, I85I; next Edward E. Sargeant, till February, I853, when Taylor became editor again and occupied that position as long as the proprietorship of Jacob Barns & Co. existed. For a brief interval in the summer of I85I, Solomon L. Withey was editor. Mr. Sargeant possessed a finely cultured mind, and his writings, like himself, were highly polished. He died in i858, aged thirty-seven years, much beloved by the commiunity in which he had lived. Charles H. Taylor left the newspaper business about 1857, and was afterward prominent in other walks of life. The printing office of the old Weekly Enquirer was a movable institution. From the place last above mentioned it moved in 1843 across Canal street to the Erie street corner; from there to the south side of Monroe street above Waterloo; in May, 1848, across the street to a wooden building opposite the head of Waterloo street; then in April, i849, to the third story of Irving Hall. In i854 it went into a new wooden building erected by its proprietors, near the southeast corner of Canal and Lyon streets, and in the following year was moved diagonally across to where the Fourth National Bank now stands, where it remained till the consolidation of the Enquirer and Herald. Among its early political contributors were Charles I. Walker, Sylvester Granger and Alfred D. Rathbone. In politics this paper was Democratic, of the straightest sect, and in i843 advocated the nomination of John C. Calhoun for Presi 2()2 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRANI) RAPIDS. dent. Among the attaches of the office while it was in Irving Hall were: Solomon 0. Littlefield, James N. Davis, Charles WV. Warrell, and William Benjamin, the latter now of Holland, Mich. THE GRANI) RAII)DS EAGIE. The first number of the weekly Eagle was issued December 25, 1844, by Aaron B. Turner, then a young man of twenty-two. It contained the returns of the Presidential election of that year. It started as a W\hig paper. U nsuccessful efforts had been made for its publication during the preceding political campaign, to which fact the Enquirer alluded, January 3, i845, in the following notice of its new-born rival: This bird-the was-to-be great auxiliary of the Whig party in the late battle-after a protracted incubation has at last broke its calcareous enclosure and come peeping forth into this breathing world. George Martin and C. F. Barstow are its "responsible" editors, from whose known peculiarities of sentiment we doubt not it will faithfully represent the old school of Whig politics. Originally, the name of the paper was Grand River Eagle; afterward the word "Rapids" was substituted for "River." As faithfully as the difficulties of maintain ing an existence upon a small subscription list in a sparsely settled country would allow, the Eagle fulfilled its rival's prediction, as a supporter of the WVhig party, during the following nine years. \Vith small means at command, the proprietor sometimes found it difficult even to procure the paper for its publication, and occasional suspensions of a few weeks were necessitated. In 1848 it supported vigorously the Taylor Presidential ticket, and in I852 that of W\infield Scott, though in the latter campaign it could not indorse the platform of the Whig party in reference to the agitation of the slavery question. After the election of I852, and the signal defeat of the Whig party thereat, the Eagle astonished the community, and many of its patrons, by appearing with the legend at its head: "An Independent Democratic Journal," and declaring that the time had come for a new alignment; that AntiSlavery Whigs must seek other affiliations, and the Democratic party be opposed by a new organization. It promptly came to the support of the Free Democratic State ticket nominated at Jackson, February 22, 1854, and in July following as heartily espoused the cause of the then organized Republican party, in which the Free Democratic party was merged. Since that time it has been steadily a Republican journal. In the publication of the weekly edition, its proprietor, Aaron B. Turner, had associated with him as business partners: in i848, James Scribner; in i849, A. H. Proctor; in I851-52, his father, Isaac Turner. Among contributors to its editorial columns were: C. F. Barstow, George Martin and Ralph W. Cole. THE D)AILY HERALD). Alphonso E. Gordon came to Grand Rapids from Brunswick, N. J., and on March i9, I855, began the publication of the Grand Rapids Daily Herald, the first daily newspaper in the city. Ostensibly it was a neutral paper as far as politics was concerned, but later came out squarely in support of the Democratic party. It quickly obtained a fair patronage in a community which until then had been supplied with only weekly papers for its local news. It was published until May i, 1857, when it was consolidated with the Daily Enquirer. 'IHE DAILY ENQUIRER. J acol) Barns & Co., of the old weekly Enquirer, began the publication of a daily issue November 19, 1855, with Charles H. Taylor as editor. William B. Howe was engaged as city editor, and this marked the era of a new departure in local joulrnalism. Jonathan P. Thompson became its editor in Augtlst, I856. The I)aily lnquirer was plublished under these auspices until May i, 1857, when A. E. Gordon of the Herald purchased it, and consolidated the two papers. For a brief time a semi-weekly was published in connection with the daily Enquirer. DAI\LY ENQUIRER AN1) HERALD). Associated with iMr. G(ordon in this enterprise was Jonathan P. Thompson, a political and news writer, and the firm name was Gordon & Thompson. The partnership did not last long, on account of disagreement. The office property was seized upon a chattel mortgage, and, being carried away by unskilled hands, was converted into more pi than has at any other time been known in the annals of Grand Rapids newspapers. Gordon immediately procured a new outfit THE PRESS OF GRAND RAPIDS. 263 and the publication of the Enquirer and Herald was continued in spite of the "forty thieves," as he designated those who had made the seizure. But its troubles were not then ended. In April, i86o, the plant, good will and subscription list were again taken, under a mortgage, and soon after Fordham & Co. (N. D. Titus) obtained possession, and continued the publication somewhat irregularly. E. D. Burr succeeded Fordham, and Burr & Titus published the paper, sometimes weekly and sometimes semi-weekly, until 1865, when Titus became the possessor and transferred it to Merrills H. Clark. The paper had announced the decease of its daily issue about November 2 I, 1864. Clark assumed control in August, 1865, and, to avoid an injunction threatened by Burr, who still laid claim to the property, changed the name to the Grand Rapids Democrat; and thus ended the troublled history of the Enquirer and Hlerald. THE DAII.V MORNIN(; I)EMOCRAT. Merrills H. Clark, in whose proprietorship, in August. I865, the Democrat was started under its present title, sold an interest in the paper to Richard Burt, of Omaha, Neb. In a short time Burt resold to Clark, whose next partner was Clark C. Sexton. After Sexton, he had associated with him successively, Robert Wilson, H. P. Churchill, John L. E. Kelley, James N. Davis, Charles B. Smith, and Ambrose A. Stevens. July 29, 1877, Clark sold his interest to Messmore & Stevens (I. E. Messmore and A. A. Stevens), who conducted the paper until May, i88i, when Messmore became the sole owner, and August I, i882, transferred it to Frank W. Ball, who has since been its proprietor. The Democrat, both daily and weekly, has attained a handsome patronage, and is in the front rank of Democratic journals of the State, outside of Detroit. Charles A. French was for a time associated with Mr. Ball in the business management, and afterward upon the advertising force. Among others employed in an editorial capacity, or as reporters, have been: Wm. M. Hathaway, John A. Creswell, Harry L. Creswell, Wm. S. Hull, Wm. R. Maze, Fred. N. Peck, George W. Locke, Alfred B. Tozer and Henry G. Wanty. Present staff (i888): Frank W. Ball, Editor and Proprietor; Thomas G. Fletcher, Managing and Telegraph Editor; Wm. J. Sproat, City Editor. Reporters: Joseph J. Emery, Clarence Co.ton and Burridge D. Butler. Mordecai L. Hopkins and Charles D. Almy, the latter as a special writer, have contributed to its columns. True to its name, the Democrat in politics has been an unswerving, straight-laced sutpporter of the Democratic party, and considered its organ in this part of Michigan. The publication office of the Daily Enquirer when it started was at the corner of Lyon and Canal streets; that of the Daily Herald was in Irving Hall block; that of the Enquirer and Herald, after the consolidation, was on the west side of Canal south of Lyon, and thence after i86o it went to Monroe street, above \Vaterloo. After the change of proprietors and change of name, the Democrat establishment was removed to 22 Canal street; in 1873 it was at 8-io Lyon street. In I88O it had removed to 75 Lyon street, and in 1884 it had settled in its present quarters at 93 Pearl street in the Houseman building. It has uniformly ranked as the leading Democratic journal of this section. F. W. Ball was born at the Ball homestead on East Fulton street in this city, August i8, I85I. During boyhood his summers were mostly devoted to farm work, and later he learned the carpenter's trade. He was graduated from the Grand Rapids High School in 1869, and from the Literary Department of Michigan University in I875, having meanwhile spent two years studying in Europe. After taking two courses of medical lectures, he began newspaper work as reporter on the Philadelphia Times, in March, 1876, and during the succeeding six years held responsible positions on the Pittsbu)rg Telegraph, Baltimore American and New York \Vorld. August i, 1882, he purchased the Grand Rapids Daily and \Veekly Democrat, of which newspaper he has since been editor and publisher. THE D)AILY EAGLE. May 26, I856, Aaron B. Turner, the proprietor and founder of the Grand Rapids Eagle, started the Daily Eagle as a morning paper. At that time the city had no railroad communication, no telegraph, no gaslight-not even kerosene light, nor any of many other things now considered almost indispensable for the publication of a daily paper. Night after night the compositors HIS()ORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND) RAPI'II)S. labored with straining eyeballs, to decipher by the flickering light of "burning fluid" lamps the blind telegraphic dispatches received by stage from Kalamazoo. The Daily Eagle was changed to an evening paper September 2, i856, and with the exception of two or three weeks in December, 1859, has continued an evening journal ever since. Supplementary to it, however, the publication of a weekly Sunday Morning Eagle was begun November 20, 1887. In May, I859, the first power press in this city was set up in the Eagle office. It was a Guernsey press, witl oscillating cylinder, and reciprocating bed. At first it was worked by hand with a crank, but on November 3 of the same year, steam power was applied, with a small engine manufactured by Chester B. Turner; the fire-box, boiler, and engine occupying a space of only about three by five feet; the entire apparatus, including press, being in the same room with the business part. Thus the Eagle was the first to adopt steam in place of muscle for printing in this city. January 8, 1864, the Eagle printing office was burned, and February 22 of the same year the publication was resumed with the first Hoe press ever used in the city. From that time to the present the publication of the Daily Eagle has been continuous. In one respect the Eagle has a record probably not paralleled in the State: that of a publication of forty-five consecutive years without essential change in proprietorship, editorial control, or political faith. From the first issue of its weekly edition (though from time to time have been associated with him several partners), it has been tinder the control of its founder, Aaron B. Turner, as principal proprietor and editor-in-chief. Besides the parties heretofore named in connection with the Weekly Eagle prior to I855, there have been associated with him in the business: For about ten years from I865, Eli F. Harrington; then for a year Fred H. Smith; then Harrington again until I885. In May, i882, Ernest B. Fisher became a partner; in i885, Freeman S. Milmine; and in i888, Willard S. Turner. July I5, i888, a stock company was formed under the title of the A. B. Turner Company-President, A. B. Turner; Vice-President, E. B. Fisher: Secretary, W. S. Turner; Treasurer, F. S. Milmine-the present proprietors. Albert Baxter entered the office of the Eagle in August, i855, and assisted in the editorial department and as business manager until J uly, i86o. From September 4, i858, until October 28, 1859, over the editorial column appeared, "A. B. Turner, EditorA. Baxter, Assistant;" and from the latter date ulntil July 14, i86o, "A. B. Turner and A. B3axter, Editors.' That was the end of the custom of placing the names of the editors at the head of the newspaper columns. Lewis J. Bates was the political writer from i86o to I865, when Mr. Baxter returned as Political writer and Managing Editor, and remained until July, 1887, when he retired from journalism, and was succeeded by Theodore M. Carpernter, as principal political writer. Connected with the editorial staff of the Eagle, and there receiving a portion of their journalistic schooling since 1857, are remembered: Clark C. Sexton, Robert Wilson, George W\ickwire Smith, NV. F. Conant, J. D. Dillenback, Frank Godfrey, Frank H. Hosford, Wm. S. Hull, E. A. Stowe, and E. B. Fisher, who is still there. Jonathan P. Thompson was News Editor and miscellaneous writet two or three years prior to i872, and Alpha Child from i872 to i88. The editorial and business staff of 1889, comprises: A. 13. Turner, Editor-in-Chief and principal proprietor; T. M. Carpenter, Political LEditor; E. B. Fisher, City Editor; NV. S. Turner, News Editor; Reporters, George A. McIntyre and Lewis I). Cutcheon; Proof-Reader, Mrs. Frances C. W\ood; Business Manager, F. S. Milmine; Bookkeeper, Charles E. Davis; Assistant Bookkeeper, Miss Frances C. \Vood; City Circulators, L. I). Steward, G. 13. Clark; Traveling Agent, Frank W. Leonard; Solicitor of Advertising, C. A. Brakeman; Foreman of Composing Room, John B. Greenway; Superintendent of Press Room, Paul J. Schindler. The Eagle occupies an influential position among tllhe Republican journals of the State. Its moral tone, like its typography, is clear and clean cut, and as a conservative family newspaper it ranks among the best. During the first twenty years and more of its existence, the Eagle printing office had a migratory career. The weekly issue was started in the second story of a wood building on 'Waterloo street, opposite the Eagle Hotel, December 25, 1.845. Shortly afterward it was moved to another wood building on the north side of Monroe street, opposite I K) THE PRESS OF GRAND RAP'IIDS. the head of \Vaterloo. Thence it went to the Rathbone Btuildings-a stone block, nortll corner of Ottawa and Monroe; in I847 to Franklin Block, Canal street at the northeast corner of the canal basin; in i848 to Faneuil Hall, corner of Monroe and \Vaterloo; in 1849 to a low wood l)uildling at the southeast corner of Canal and Lyon; about 1850 to the Sons of Temperance or Public Hall building, east side of Canal between Lyon and Bronson streets; in 1852 to Fanelil Hall again; in the spring of I856 to the "Tanner Taylor" building, where is now Campau Place; in February, 1857, to the brick block at the southwest corner of Lyon and Canal streets; in i86i to a frame building wNhich stood on its present location; was there burned out, January 8, 1864, and then went into Squier's Opera House, where its press was run by water power; next, February io, i868, was established in its permanent and present home, the Eagle Building, 49 Lyon street, erected by its chief proprietor. AARON 13. TURNER was born at lPlattsburg, Clinton county, N. Y., Aug. 27, 1822. His father, Isaac Turner, was a millwright and iron manufacturer of that town. His edlcation was that of the district school of those days; where early in youth he showed special aptitude in the study of grammar and mathematics. In the spring of 1836 the family camne from Plattsbulrg to Grand Rapids, when the little hamlet was less than three years old. At fifteen years of age lie began learning the printer's trade, in the office of the first newspaper liere-the Gr-and ARic-r.i;,cs-and worked there and in the printing office of its successor, thle Gran/d Rapids Enqutircr/', mu lch of the time for about six years. He then procured a hand press and other printing material, and started the Grand 'ir' ]/ aglC, a Whig newspaper, the first number of which was issule(d I)ec. 25, 1844. This was a weekly journal, thle name of which was subsequently changed to Gr-and Rapids I:ab'. \Vhile conducting this weekly newspaper only, lie had a habit of going to the case and putting editorial articles in type without written copy, unless they were long and sonlewhat elaborate. The further history of his newspaper wvork is elsewhere given. Politically Mr. Turner was a Whig until the 22. decadence of that party; thlen and( ever since a stancli Republican. He was a delegate and Secretary at the convention held in Jackson, July 6, 1854, iby wlich that party was organized. Previous to the organization of the Republican party, being politically with the minority, in the days when patronage was slight and profits were meager, lie struggled against many discoiuragemllents to keep his newspaper alive. Financially, it was not a tempting business; but in it were bound his attachments and his pride, and to it were given his persistent efforts with unflagging courage until success came, making it a fairly remunerative property. In January, I864, his printing office was burned, involving the destruction of all its contents, bult this misfortune only caused a suspension of his newspaper for about six weeks; since which, to the present time, its publication has been uninterrupted. In public life Mr. Turner has filled various official positions. In I843-44 he was the Clerk of the township of \Valker. In 1850 lie was elected the first Clerk of the city of Grand Rapids. He was Journal Clerk of the House of Representatives at Lansing at the session of 1855; official reporter for tlie Senate in 1857, and Secretary of the Senate in 1859 and i86i. In 1862 hle was appointed, by President Lincoln, Collector of Internal Revenue for the Fouirth District of Michigan, and organized the Internal Revenue Service in the northwestern portion of this Peninsula. In i866 he was removed from tlhat service by President Johnson because lie could not approve the reconstruction policy of the latter. In:869 he was appointed Postmaster of Grand Rapids by President Grant, and reappointed in 1873, holding the office for two full terms. In 188o lie was chosen and served as Presidential Elector. He was one of the Commissioners appointed by Governor Luce to represent Michigan at the Centennial Celeblration ot President \Vashington's Inauguration, leld at New York, April 30, 1889. In person Mr. Turner is of medium height; has blue eyes, a pleasing expression of countenance, and silvery white lhair. Socially, he is genial and companionable, with an aptitude for gaining lasting friendships. He is extremely fond of field sports, especially of hunting and fishing, and of the charlns of an outdoor life which they afford. In thought and opinions he is independent and HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. tenacious. Religiously, he is not wedded to any creed, but inclined to liberality in belief. In relation to the mechanics and the arts, he has critical perception and taste. In politics and public affairs, he exhibits as much interest as in his younger days. Mr. Turner is the veteran editor of the State, having published and retained control of the newspaper which he founded during fortyfive consecutive years. In i867-68 he erected the brick block known as the Eagle Building, at 49 Lyon street, in which is the Eagle printing office. April 3, I843, he married Sally C. Sibley, and they have a seemingly fair prospect of celebrating together their golden wedding. They have an interesting family of grown-up children, and are enjoying the evening of life in a neat and comfortable residence at 113 Sheldon street. ALBERT BAXTER is of early New England lineage, through each of the four families of his grandparents. Their progenitors were among the colonists who came across the Atlantic in the period from i620 to I650. A large number in each line of descent have served this country in the War of the Revolution, the War of 1812, and the late War for the Union. His father, Eber Hubbard Baxter, and his mother, Irene (Child) Baxter, died in Cascade, Michigan; the former, in I879, aged 80 years; the latter in I871 aged 69 years. Albert Baxter is the oldest of seven sons and six daughters who reached adult life, and of whom five brothers and five sisters are living at the time of this writing. He was born August 3, I823, in a log cabin by the bank of Mad River in Moretown, Washington county, Vermont. His parents were poor, his father a farmer, and during the following eight years moved seven times and lived in five log houses. In their poverty they were not envied, for they came honestly to that estate. In boyhood he attended the district schools, and then for two terms a village academy; afterward taught school in Vermont, and in Wisconsin, whither he went in I845. On a farm, in youth, he plowed, planted, sowed and harvested; cleared heavily timbered land, split rails and made fences, laid stone wall, dug ditches and chopped wood-in short performed almost every kind of labor known to farm work, with the primitive implements used in those days (wages about half the present rates, but they helped the family)-and later turned his attention to mechanical trades. Soon after he was twenty years of age he purchased of his father the remaining time of his minority, giving his note therefor. All the money he had previously owned or handled for his own use would not amount to five dollars. After paying his father for his time, with interest, he started west and reached Milwaukee with about $2.50 in his pocket. His savings of the following four months he loaned to a friend and lost. In i846 he came to Grand Rapids; loaned here to a needy friend the little more that he had earned, and lost that. During the next five months he was prostrated with chills and fever. Then he read law for a time, meanwhile working eight hours a day in a carriage shop, found his bodily health unequal to the task, gave up law, and during the succeeding seven years followed carriage-making and painting. February 22, 1849, he married Elvira E., daughter of Joel Guild. A daughter born of this union died young. Mrs. Baxter died June 5, I855, in Fayston, Vermont, and her remains were laid to rest in Fulton Street Cemetery, Grand Rapids. February 22, I854, he was a delegate at the Free Democratic State Convention, in Jackson, which first nominated K. S. Bingham for Governor of Michigan. OtherAise he has never participated in active politics, and never sought nor held official position; except that of Notary Public for near a quarter of a century-an office practically without emolument. In the summer of i854 he abandoned his shop, and spent the next three quarters of a year at the East, in a fruitless effort to win back health to his invalid wife. In August, i855, he entered the office of the Grand Rapids Eagle, as business and editorial assistant; staid until July, i86o0; went to Detroit and worked awhile on the Tribune,; lost his health; was nearly two years an invalid; then was engaged as a clerk and part of the time in the lumber woods until the fall of I865, when he again entered the Eag/le office and occupied the editorial chair for about twenty-fwo consecutive years, laboring zealously as best he might for the public good. As to how well or poorly he succeeded, the files of that journal contain the only continuous testimony; and, as only two copies of it now exist, the proof is THE I'PRESS OF GRAND RAPIDS.?267 substantially buried in oblivion. Politically, Mr. Baxter is a Republican; religiously or morally he makes no profession other than to strive to be honest and kind. Financially he has been unsuccessful; with misfortune he is familiar, and likewise has personal knowledge of the distresses of many other people. Coming crippled into life, he has never enjoyed robust health. The result of his latest work-the most exacting, onerous and vexing labor of his life (unremunerative withal) —is comprised within the lids of this book. These few waymarks along the path of his experience are sketched by himself, to make sure of their correctness, and-he waits. Eli F. Harrington is a native of East Bradfield, Massachusetts, where he was born in I839. He learned the printer's trade, came west in i858, and from i865 to i885 was most of the time connected with the publication of the Eagle, as a business partner. Since the latter date he has been engaged in patent rights, and other dealings, with fair success. Ernest B. Fisher was born at Binghamton, N. Y., December 5, I847. He came to Grand Rapids in i868. In I87i he entered the office of the Eagle as local reporter, and has ever since been at the head of its local staff, and proprietor in part since i882. He is a member oi the Board of Trade, and is interested in other home enterprises, including the Michigan Artisan. THE DAIIY TIMES. The first number of the Grand Rapids Daily Times was issued April I7, I870, by Clark C. Sexton. In 187i Nathan Church purchased a half interest, and was its editor two or three years. Don Henderson and George W. Gage then held an interest in it for a short time, and afterward in the proprietorship were Myron W\. Tarbox, Harry H. Pierce, and John M. Harris. In I876 Nathan Church resumed control, which he retained as long as the paper was issued. Professedly the Times was an independent journal, politically and otherwise; in fact it was a sort of free-lance paper, with points turned every way. In its later days Gouverneur B. Rathbone was interested in it financially. Upon its staff at times, among others, were Theodore M. Carpenter, F.J. Hobbes, A. B. Tozer, Charles H. Hamblin, and J. G. Hann. It was purchased by Frank WV. Ball and merged in the Democrat, July 21, i886, on which day its last number was issued. THE EVENING LEADER. This daily journal was started by the Leader Publishing Company, February 14, 1879, ostensibly as an independent exponent of what were called "Greenback" or "National" politics. The principal stockholders of the company were: Henry S. Smith, C. C. Comstock, Winm. H. Powers, John C. Blanchard, L. V. Moulton, Wm. P. Innes, John L. Curtiss, P. S. Hulbert, and Wm. A. Berkey. Members of its staff were: S. B. McCracken, Managing Editor; James H. Maze, News Editor; Wm. B. Weston, City Editor, and A. W. Johnston, Business Manager. Among those since connected with it as editors or reporters have been: George W. Gage, F. H. Hosford, J. W. Mills, W. R. Maze, and Herbert Parrish. Of its staff in i888 are: W. B. Weston, Managing Editor; David R. Waters, Political Editor; Lewis G. Stuart, City Editor, and Henry M. Rose, Reporter. Its tone, usually, has been that of a supporter of Democratic party politics. THE MORNING TELEGRAM. This was first issued September 30, I884, by Harford & McDowell (W. M. Harford and Hugh McDowell), as a Republican journal. January 2I, I885, The Telegram Publishing Company was organized. Among its principal stockholders were: A. B. Watson, D. A. Blodgett, Henry Spring, N. L. Avery, Hon. MI. S. Crosby, and C. G. Swensberg. H arford & McDowell, however, held the controlling interest until April I7, i886, when it was sold to Lloyd Brezee and Fred G. Berger. THE TELEGRAM-HERALD. May 20, I885, Lloyd Brezee started Brezee's Herald, a weekly society paper which was published about eleven months. April I7, I887, Lloyd Brezee and Fred G. Berger, having acquired control of the Morning Telegram, bought Brezee's Herald and consolidated the two under the title of The Telegram-Herald, adding a Sunday morning edition devoted chiefly to society matters, to take the place of Brezee's weekly. Brezee's name appeared as editor and proprietor, and the paper was declared inde 2<8S HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAI'IDS. pendent in politics. August 3, i888, ii. D. Conger, with the financial backing of C. G. Swensberg, purchased the interest of Brezee and Berger, thus secturing control of the paper, and turned the majority of stock thus purchased over to Swenslerg. Under the new management the paper was made Republican in politics, and secured a fair degree of patronage. C. G. Swensberg is President of the company, E. D. Conger, Secretary and Manager. On its staff (i888) are: Hugh McDowell, Managing Editor; F. W. Boughton, Telegraph Editor; Ed. E. Smith, City Editor; Mrs. Etta S. Wilson, Society Editor. Among others who were previously attached to the editorial staff, were: W\. A. Innes, H. M. Rose, J. D. Mcintyre, W. J. Sproat, Charles Hamblin, W. C. Graves, Herbert Parrish, Melnott Grummond, Chas. Young, Charles Emerson and James Ferguson. The staff in 1889 comprises: Lewis M. Miller, Managing Editor; Thomas K. Hunt, City Editor; John I). McIntyre, Dramatic Editor: Bert Hall, Horace Cambron, A. S. Hopkins, the Rev. S. H. Woodford, George B. Catlin, S. H. Sweet, Charles P. Woodward, Mrs. Etta S. Wilson, reporters. The latter was the first lady employed in newspaper reporting in Grand Rapids. 'IHE PRESS CLU1I. Grand Rapids is one of the few cities that has a press-club. It was organized October i8, i885: President, Henry M. Rose; Secretary, Andrew Fyfe; Treasurer, George W. Locke. It objects, as stated in its constitution, are: '"To promote social intercourse and friendly feeling among its members; to extend aid to them when necessary, and to advance the interests of the profession of journalism."' It has been successfully conducted, is free from debt, and has a snug little sum in its treasury. Steps have been taken for its incorporation under the laws of the State. Officers for 1889: President, Wm. B. Weston; Secretary and Treasurer, Joseph J. Emery; Librarian and Sergeant at Arms, Clarence Cotton. The club has thirty active members, and includes the majority of those upon the staffs of the daily papers, with many workers on weekly papers and several special writers. WEEKLIES AND OTHER PERIODICALS. Each of the daily papers of the city has p)ublished in connection a weekly edition. Besides, some thirty weekly and periodical publications still alive have been born in Grand Rapids. A brief outline history of each is here given, arranged chronologically in the order of their establishment. DE VRE1IJHEIi )S BANIE R.-A weekly paper in the Holland language, established in 1868, by Verburg and Van Leeuwen. This is the oldest weekly entirely separate from a daily issue in the city. In November, I871, it was purchased bly James Van der Sluis, its present editor and proprietor, and made Republican, politically, which it has since been. Among its former editors have been John WV. Van der Haar, J. Van Leeuwen, H. M. Buhrmann and J. Scheffer. D}: S'TANDAARD.-A Hollandish paper started January 28, I875, by J. Van Strien and Dennis Schram. Published as a semiweekly in 1877, with Isaac Verwey as Editor. Subsequently Gerrit Visschers, and G. Schoenmaker were Editors. Since i88I, Dennis Schram has been Proprietor and Gerrit Vischers, Editor. It is Democratic in politics. THE ARI(;cIZCULTURAL. WVoKRL. -A semimonthly. whose name indicates its character, established in 1875 by Frank M. Carroll; merged in the \Veekly World in i886; the latter is published by F. M. Carroll & Co., and in politics Republican. THEi MEDICAl COUNSEILLOR.-An eight page medical semi-monthly established in I877, by Dr. Hugo R. Arndt. Now printed in Ann Arbor and edited by Dr. Arndt. DAWN OF THE MORNING.-An organ of the Children of Zion (Adventist). A sixteen page monthly, established in 1878 by D. D. Paterson. THE LEVEiR.-A weekly Prohibition paper, founded in this city in 1878 by J. A. Van Fleet. Now published in Chicago. THE REvIEW.-A literary weekly established in 1879 by A. B. Tozer and Robert Baird. Sold in i88o to L. B. Stanton and Joseph P. Ball. MICHIGAN TRADE JOURNAL. -The Review, changed by L. B. Stanton to a paper in the interest of the trade in liquors in I883, and given this new title. MICHIGAN JOURNAL.-Same as the Michigan Trade Journal, published every Satur THE PRESS OF GRANI) RAI'IDS. day by L. B. Stanton & Co., in the same interest. MICHIGAN ARTISAN. -An eighty page monthly, mechanical trades journal, established by Arthur S. White in i88o; a flourishing paper still edited by its founder. It has lately passed into the hands of a stock company, of which E. B. Fisher is President. THE MODERATOR.-The Michigan School Moderator, an educational monthly, first issued in this city in i88o, is now published at Lansing, and occupies a high position among journals of its class. THE GFIRMANIA.-A Republican, German weekly, established in i882. Martin & Wurzburg, Proprietors; Louis Martin, Editor. A successful paper. YANKEE DUTCiu.- A weekly, printed in Dutch and English, and dedicated to American citizens born in Holland. Established in 1882, by John W. Van Leeuwen. MI1CHIG(;AN TRADESMAN. An eight page commercial weekly, established in I883 by Ernest A. Stowe, who is its editor. Issued Wednesdays. It has attained a high standing. E. A. Stowe & Brother, Publishers. THE WORKMAN.-A four page Knights of Labor weekly. Established in 1884 by I. S. Dygert, with E. D. Fuller, Editor. Win. M. Hathaway was afterward editor for a time. Now published by E. P. Mills and A. M. Wolihan. THEI WOIVERINE C-YCLONE.-A political and humorous weekly, started in 1884 by J. Mason Reynolds, and in 1889 still issued occasionally. HEARTH AND HALL.- A sixteen page literary monthly. Founded in 1884 by Theodore M. Carpenter and Edgar J. Adams. An excellent household journal. Office in the Eagle Building. MICHIGAN DAIRY-MAN.-A sixteen page monthly, whose interests are chiefly indicated by its title. Established in I886 by E. A. Stowe & Brother, and issued from the Tradesman office. THE \V WESr SImE: NE vs.- An eight page weekly newspaper started in 1886. Devoted especially to the interests of the West Side of the River. John G. Lee, Editor and Plublisher. DI)ER SONNTAGSBOITE:. --— A German literary weekly, established in 1887. Martin & Wurzburg, Publishers. Issued from the Germania office. BANNER OF LIFE. —An eight page weekly, devoted to Spiritualism. Issued by The Banner of Life Publishing Company. W. E. Reid, Publisher. Now published tinder the name of the Olive Branch. THE HOIINESS RECORD. --- A monthly journal devoted to purity of life and living. Published by Solomon B. Shaw, as the organ of the Michigan State Holiness Association.. THE CHRISTIAN MESSENGER. —An independent evangelical weekly, started in I888 by E. B. Gifford, Editor. RElFORMED CHURCH RECORD.-A monthly, published by, and in the interests of the First Reformed Church. THE PASTOR'S AID.-A monthly publication in the interests of St. Mark's parish, and edited by the Rector, the Rev. Campbell Fair. This and the Sunday School Guide are noticed in another part of this work"St. Mark's Church." STEMMEI.N CUi DE VRYE HOLLANDSCHE GENSENTE.-Literally interpreted, the name means: "The Voice of the Free Church." A monthly, issued by the Liberal Publishing Company, in support of the doctrines of the Liberal Holland congregation. THE CHRISTIAN HIEI. PER.-A four page monthly, started in December, i888, in the interest of the Second Baptist Church, by the Rev. Edward H. Brooks. SKRI 1TENS-TOIlK.-A Swedish monthly, devoted to "true religion and politics." First issued January 5, I889, from 92 Broadway, by the Swedish Publishing Company, C. A. Wickstrom, President. G(AGE'S SATURIDA GAZ: ETTEI.-A literary weekly, started September 8, I888, by the Gage Brothers. George W. Gage, Editor; Hiram R. Gage, Publisher. Merged in Hobbies. Ho}:I Es. — A literary weekly, started Janlary o10, i889, by C. S. Hartman; F. D. Hopkins, Associate Editor. [Since passed into the hands of M. A. True and F. D. Hopkins, and name changed to Town News. ] THE STAR.-An eight page weekly journal, "of society, dramatic, sporting, club 270 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. and general news." Started, February 9, I889. W. A. Emerson, Publisher; C. S. Emerson, Editor. THE TYLER. — Devoted to Freemasonry, and official organ of the Craft in Michigan. Twenty pages, weekly. Started in Detroit in 1887 by Brownell Bros. Now published in Grand Rapids. John H. Brownell, Editor and Proprietor. THE MISCELLANY.-A fitting apex to this pyramid of Grand Rapids journals, is The Miscellany, a bright, amateur, microscopic monthly, with very small pages, first published in November, i888, by Ralph C. Apted, an editor fourteen years of age. NEWSPAPER EPITAPHS. The wise, the good, Fair forms and hoary seers of ages past All in one mighty sepulcher All that tread The globe are but a handful to the tribes That slumber in its bosom. -BRYANT. Thus wrote the young poet concerning the dead-and thus might be written of the dead newspapers of earth, and especially those of Grand Rapids. The graves of more than seventy of the departed ones are here identified and marked; and to them, probably, might be added a few more before this book comes from the press: YOUNG HICKORY.-A Democratic campaign sheet, issued from the Enquirer office in 1844. WELL IS' ADVERTISER. - A monthly real estate paper, started in the summer of 1856 by Revilo Wells, associated with whom was Bennett N. Sexton. VALLEY CITY ADVERTISER.-A social and literary monthly, successor to Wells' Advertiser, published by B. N. Sexton for several years. THE GRAN1) RAPIDS PRESS.-A semiweekly newspaper established by Jonathan P. Thompson and Charles B. Benedict in I857, after the dissolution of the firm of Gordon & Thompson, publishers of the Enquirer and Herald. THE GREAT WESTERN JOURNAl. - A weekly newspaper, first called the Grand Rapids Journal, established by Thomas D. Worrall, in October, I858. Uri J. Baxter, E. G. D. Holden and Justus C. Rogers were connected with this paper for a time as editors. THE YOUNG; WOLVERINE.- A four-page monthly "young folks' journal," published one year, from July, 1857, to July, i858, by Charles W. Eaton and Wm. S. Leffingwell. A well edited paper, which has not been surpassed in neatness of typography by any of its successors. DE S1TOOMPOST.-The first Hollandish paper published in the city. Issued in i859 by Jacob Quintus; sold by Quintus to Henry D. C. VanAsmus, and suspended after an existence of some seven years. THE INDUSTRIAL JOURNAL. - A labor weekly, issued in February, I867, as the successor of the Valley City Advertiser and Laboring Man's Advocate, by J. B. Haney, agent of the Labor Union Publishing Company; afterward published for a short time by John G. Lee. GRAND RAPIDS DAILY UNION.-A shortlived evening labor paper, issued by the Labor Union Publishing Company, July 30, 1867, with Ezra D. Burr as editor. THE LABOR UNION.-A tri-weekly labor paper published by John G. Lee in 1868-69. THE GRAND RAPIDS CITY ADVERTISER.A trade paper of twenty-eight pages, quarto, issued quarterly throughout i869, by J. D. Dillenback. THE SUN.-A Greenback daily, published about 1869-70, by Marvin & Co.-short lived. DER PIONEER.-An independent German weekly paper; the pioneer German paper of the city, published in i871-72, by Carl Nienhardt. Suspended after a life of nearly two years. THE SATURDAY EVENING Pos.t- An eight page literary newspaper, founded by D. N. Foster, October 4, I873, with Win. M. Hathaway as assistant editor. In 1877 C. H. Dubois acquired control of the property, and in February, I879, sold it to Creswell & Felker (John A. Creswell and P. H. Felker). In I88o Charles A. French purchased Mr. Felker's interest. John A. Creswell, who now became editor, was a newspaper man whose sharp, incisive pencil, had made his pseudonym of "Cres" well known all over Michigan. The famous "T. T." (Town Talk) column will long be remembered. The paper was not a financial success, and in December, 1882, was sold to E. 0. Rose, of Big Rapids. Mr. THIE PRESS OF GRAND )RAPIDS. 271. Rose, after some three years experience, sold it to J. W. Hallack, who made it a Prohibition paper, and the journal breathed its last in the spring of i886. THE VALLEY CITY ENTERPRISE. —A weekly started in I873 by I. Ransom Sanford, devoted to the interests of the West Side. Subsequently published by W. N. Fuller and J. H. Maze. Sold in the fall of I874 to Carpenter & Garner. JOURNAL OF FASHION. —A monthly fashion journal, published in I873 by J. E. and W. S. Earle. MICHIGAN STAATS ZEITUNG. —A weekly German newspaper, established in December, 1874, by Wm. Eichelsdoerfer. The paper was well supported for a time, but suspended after an existence of some ten years. THE INDEPENDENT PRESS.-Successor to the West Side Enterprise. Published by Carpenter & Garner as a Spiritualist paper for a few months in i874-75. THE DAILY EVENING NEWS. - Printed Dec. 3, I874, by Arthur S. White and W. F. Conant. Died after a life of five months. DE WACHTER. -A semi-monthly Hollandish religious newspaper, established in Holland city in I868. Removed to this city in 1875, and published by the Rev. G. E. Boer. MICHIGAN AMATEUR. — An amateur monthly published in I876. THE EVENING NEWS ITEM.-A daily, published by J. D. Dillenback and others in I876-77. THE ARGUS. —A Greenback, afternoon daily, published in 1876 by Myron W. Tarbox. THE EVENING MAIL. —A co-operative daily, started in June, I876, by a company of printers. The co-operation failed to co-operate, and after two months it died. GRAND RAPIDS GREENBACK. —A weekly, started by Slocum & Holt in March, I877. The paper was run as a weekly some six months, when Holt retired and Slocum made it a daily. It was short lived. GRAND RAPIDS SONNTAGS BLAAT.-A German literary weekly, established by Wm. Eichelsdoerfer in I877. It lived about nine years. THE EVENING NATIONAL. —Published by R. M. Slocum as a Greenback daily in April, I878. Successor to the Grand Rapids Greenback. DE NIEUWS30BDE. ---A tri-weekly, independent, Hollandish paper, published three months in I878, by Timothy Haan & Co. THE STANDARD. ---A Greenback weekly, published in the winter of i878 by Louis Gale, and afterward by W. A. Innes and W. B. Weston. Merged in the Leader. THE EVENING ENQUIRER. -The Daily Evening Enquirer, a revival of the weekly Enquirer, suspended in I865, was issued in August, i878, by M. H. Clark. The paper was started as a Democratic organ, but soon changed to Greenbackism. It ran but a few months. THE NEWS AND PRICE CURRENT. -- A weekly published in 1878. THE DIAMOND. - An unsavory weekly published in i879 by Louis Gale. SOCIETY NEWS. —A short-lived weekly published in I88I by George B. Catlin. THE TRUTH. -- A weekly, published by Benson Bidwell in i882, in the interests of a Quixotic enterprise conducted under the name of the Union Trust Company. SATURDAY EVENING HERALD. —A weekly published in March, I883, by H. A. Brooks. THE CLIPPER. —A weekly, published in I882, at 46 Canal street, by Charles S. Gates. THE DAILY SUN. —An independent afternoon paper, published for eight months of I883, by W. F. Cornell and E. A. Hoag. THE BOYCOTTER. —A small weekly, printed in I883 by Hufford & Randall, backed by the Typographical Union. Its existence was ephemeral. OUR MUTUAL FRIEND. —A monthly, published in I883 by J. G. Beecher. GERMAN AMERICAN.-A small weekly sheet started in I884 by Hermann Hammerschlag. Devoted to the interests of Hebrew German-Americans. PROGRESSIVE AGE. -- Successor to the German American. A radical and aggressive free-thought paper, published weekly. Hermann Hammerschlag, Proprietor and Editor. THE LABOR UNION. —A weekly labor paper, run for four months of I884, by Asa 272 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Barrows, David Hufford and Paul Randall, as a successor to the Boycotter. LABOR HERAD. —The Labor Union was published for a short time under this title, by T. J. Mosher. THE Boy IN BIuF. -- An organ of the Sons of Veterans, published in i886 by T. J. Mosher. THE MICHIGAN SOLDIER. —A Grand Army and Sons of Veterans organ, successor to The Boy in Blue, published by T. J. Mosher, and afterward sold to Eugene Carpenter, in whose hands it died in i888. THE SCHOOL NEWSPAPER. — An educational weekly, published in I883-84 by the School Newspaper Company. NIEUWE.: COURANT. -— A weekly Holland paper, published in I884 by Jacob Quintus. YORK'S MUSICAL JOURNAL. -- An eightpage monthly musical journal, established in I884 by J. W. York & Son. THE GLOIBE. —A literary weekly, published in I882-84 by Godwin & Adzit and F. Homer Hosford. Merged in the Daily Times. THE RADICAL.-A weekly, devoted to radical Democracy, started Feb. 16, i884, by W. J. Sproat. Sold to F. W\. Ball, and merged in the Democrat in September, 1883. THE CRITIQUE.-A weekly journal issued in i885, by the Dawn Publishing Company. THE MESSAGE.-A small sheet published in i885-86 by the South Congregational Church, and devoted to the church' s interest. THE MICHIGAN MANUFACTURER.-A small sixteen page monthly, published in I885 by E. A. Stowe & Brother. It lived one year. THE LAND JOURNAL.-A monthly real estate paper, which A. A. Root & Co. published in I886. TOZER'S SATURDAY MAIL. - A literary weekly, two issues of which were published by A. B. Tozer in December, I886. MICHIGAN BUILDING AND REAL ESTATE JOURNAL.-A monthly, published by Harford & Altschwager, 48 Lyon street. W. M. Harford, editor, i886. THE EVENING NEWS. - A short-lived daily, issued in i886 by the Evening News Publishing Company. (Paul Randall and others.) REAI ESTATE WORLD. -A monthly rea, estate journal, published by C. S. Edwards in 1886. THE GERMT.-A prohibition weekly, published in i886 by the Rev. George Candee. Afterward merged in the Center, at Lansing, Mich. THE HIC;H SCHOOI JOURNAL.-A monthly school paper, published by the High School Lyceum throughout the school year, 1886-87. THE SUNDAY NEWS. —A weekly, published in November, i886, by WV. J. Mather, of Toronto, Canada. Its life was but a span -two issues in length. SUN)DAY TTRIlUNE. — Three numbers of a weekly with this title were issued in i886, by one Roberts. COMIMON SENSE.-A radical free-thought weekly, published in I887, by A. C. Everett. THE BAPTIST1 RECORD. —A four page religious monthly, published in I887-88, by the Young People's League of the First Baptist Church. THE DE. I'AN.-A school magazine, organ of the Gramma Delta Psi fraternity, pub)lished in the High School in i887-88. THE RECTOR' S ASSISTANT. — An ably edited monthly, devoted to the interests of St. Paul's parish, published by the Rector, Rev. J. Rice Taylor, in 1887-88. MONTHLY BULI.ETIN. —A small sheet published in 1886-87 by the Y. M. C. A., in the interests of the Association. YOUR PAPER. —A monthly, published in I887 by Carpenter & Adams, proprietors of Hearth and Hall. SVENSKAVECKOBI.ADET. — A Swedish weekly published in i887 by C. A. Wickstror,. THE AGIr\xTOR.-A weekly, published in 1887 by Alfred Rindge. BUSINESS REPORTER.-A daily, published for two months in 1887 by WV. A. Innes and E. A. Antisdel. DE BANIER DES VOLKS.-A Republican, Hollandish weekly, published for three months in the fall of i888 by Van Houturn & De Haan. I)IRECTORIES. The following list of directories may be found interesting, as illustrating, by the yearly increase of names, the rapid growth of the city. W\ith the exception of the DIRECTORIES-JOB PRINTERS-BOOK BINDERS. 273 earlier years, all the directories have been published by firms outside Grand Rapids, although R. L. Polk & Co. have maintained a branch publication office in the city for several years: PI'T 1.1SH L;AR S. Wm. A. Robinson........... P. J. G. Hodenpyl........... J. A. French and M. T. Ryan... Western Pub. Co., Chicago.... J.D.Dillenback & Co., Gd.Rps. J. D. Dillenback & Co, Gd. Rps. Blurch, Polk & Co., Detroit.... Polk, Murphy & Co., Detroit.. Murphy & Co., Grand Rapids. Murphy & Co., Grand Rapids. Murphy & Co., Grand Rapids. R. L. Polk & Co............. R. L. Polk & Co............. R. L. Polk & Co............. R. L. Polk & Co............. R. L. Polk & Co............. R. L. Polk & Co............ R. L. Polk & Co............. R. 1. Polk & Co............. R L. Polk & Co............. R. L. Polk & Co........... R. L. Polk & Co........... R. I. Polk & Co............. 1)% I-, Il.%; N o. i. li: lM I~s NAAMFS. 1859t 1865 1867 1870( 1872 -1873 1874 1875 1876) 1877 1878 1879. 188)) 1881 1882 188;3 1884 1885 1886 1887 1888 188{ It,:$ 122 2, 88 15 4 1,760 274 4 274 198 4,613 2);8 4, 96) 3() 9, 684():17(6 10,677:39(; 1, 20(:37 ) I 1, 80:182 12,200 404 12,550) 428 13,300 474 14,500 99} 1, 60() (136 11., 400 812 21,800 (88 21,600) 944 22,000) I 904 24,763 1,212 28,717 I1,124 31,434 JOB PRINTING( AND IOOK WVORK. During the early days, and up to about 1870, comparatively little printing was done outside of the newspaper offices. Newspaper publishers advertised to do job printing "with neatness and dispatch and or reasonable terms." Each paper had its job department, and as many hands as were needed for its custom, especially skilled in handbill and advertising work, were given employment therein. In I857, John Bole had started a small office in the Lovett Block, and advertised to do job printing and book work, and within a few years thereafter, several establishments were started for such work exclusively. From small beginnings this business has grown to quite large proportions, using machinery, in some cases, as heavy and intricate and costly as that of the largest newspaper establishments. There are, in i889, at least two dozen job printing offices in the city. Among the larger ones are: The Dean Printing and Publishing Co., The Eaton, Lyon & Allen Printing Company, the Democrat job rooms, W. W. Hart, Loomis & Onderdonk, I. S. Dygert, L. B. Stanton & Co., West Michigan Printing Company, 23 and The Fuller & Stowe Company. Also in the business are Dickinison Brothers, Hensen & Reynders, Martin & Wurzburg, P. T. Hugenholtz, John Rookus, G. C. Shepard, J. H. Taylor, H. A. Toren, and Anthony Van Dort, all centrally located on the east side of the river. On West Bridge street are Gust. Holm, Carl Nienhardt and Paterson & Clarke. The Dean Printing and Publishing Company was organized and incorporated in April, I889. It occupies the entire fifth floor of the Louis street side of the Blodgett block, at the corner of Ottawa and Louis streets, and is equipped with the best of material for all sorts of fine printing and binding, taking position among the foremost establishments of its kind. This volume is a specimen of its work, and bears its imprint on the title page. Officers of the company: President, William Dunham; Vice-President, Samuel E. Watson; Secretary, A. S. Hicks; Treasurer, Jacob Barth; Manager and General Superintendent, Harry K. Dean. Capital Stock, $25,ooo. It starts briskly, with a heavy business, and an average of twenty-five employes. The printing business gives support to a large number of people, and is a source of fair profit to some. In the Typographical Union are io8 active members, who, with honorary members and non-Union workmen, make up a total of about I50 practical printers in the city. BINDERIES. In March, i855, the Enquirer advertised the establishment of a book-bindery, "next' door to the Post Office," where "blank books, day-books, journals and all kinds of county records will be bound in the best style at Detroit prices." Jacob Barns & Co. were the proprietors. Andrew J. Dygert was the workman, and the first book-binder to ply his trade in this city. The business at that time was small. In November, i860, John C Wenham purchased the plant, and it was removed to Nevius Block (now Gunn Block) on Monroe street. In i863 it was sold to Henry M. Hinsdill, who combined book-binding with bookselling. In I86o Adrian Yates had a bindery on the east side of Canal street, between Lyon and Pearl, and in I865, Arthur W\. Currier 274 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. was in the business at 21 Barclay street. Mr. Currier had previously worked with Mr. Wenham. In I877, the Barlow Brothers (John B. and Heman G.) established a bindery in the Randall Block near the foot of Lyon street. Their business has grown until it amounts to from $30,000 to $40,000 yearly Other book binders in the city are: J. Chilver & Co., Blodgett block, corner Ottawa and Louis streets; Richard Gough & Co., No. 2 Pearl; Ritze Hermann, 291 Ottawa. p,0 0K SELL,:ERS AND STA'TION'ERS. In I836, John WV. Peirce started a small book and stationery store at the northeast corner of Kent and Bronson streets. Judging from his advertisements, his assortment of books was somewhat mixed. In the spring of I841 he had for sale "at the book store," "a large assortment of saw mill saws," and wanted at the same place, "two hundred bushels of oats." In I844, he moved from there to the west side of Canal street, on the south corner of Erie. Gradually he worked out of the book trade, into that of general merchandise. In i848 James D. Lyon opened a similar store at the east corner of Canal and Pearl streets. After him, Wm. B. Howe, till 1856, and then George P. Barnard continued the business at the same place until about I866, when George K. Nelson and Charles \V. Eaton, in partnership, bought the stock. Subsequently this firm became Nelson Brothers & Co. (George C., George K. and James F. Nelson) still in business at 68 Monroe street, and now trading exclusively in wall paper, shade goods and statuary. George P. Sexton opened a news stand in November, I857, in the postoffice, where he sold periodicals for a year or two. Among other early book-sellers were John Terhune, Jr., about I854, in the Rathbone block, and afterward in Luce Block; and C. Morse, a little later, on Canal, near Erie street. About i86o J. S. Nevius & Son had a book store in the Nevius Block. In i859 Henry M. Hinsdill established a book house at I4 Canal street. Afterward Chester B. Hinsdill and Charles D. Lyon became associated with him under the name of Hinsdill Brothers & Co., at 22 Canal street. In 1870 the Hinsdills were bought out by Charles WV. Eaton and C. I). Lyon, and the firm name of Eaton & Lyon made its appearance in the book trade. In the same year that owl whose spectacled countenance is so familiar to newspaper readers in Western Michigan, was adopted as a trade-mark. The original owl was a stuffed bird bought at auction and set in the display window of the store, from a portrait of which by Lawrence Earle, Fred. S. Church designed their trade mark. In I88i the firm removed to 20 and 22 Monroe street, its present location. Its members are: C. W. Eaton, C. D. Lyon, H. W. Beecher and J. L. Kymer. The business of the establishment has grown until with the allied plant of the Eaton, Lyon & Allen Printing Company, it foots up some $225,000 annually. In I874 George A. Hall opened a news stand, with a small stock of books, in the Arcade. With several successive partners, the management of the business has remained in his hands, and it has grown to be a large trade. In i887 the store was removed to 56 Monroe street. Other firms of later establishment in the line of stationery and news are: Buchanan & Co., No. 5 South Division street; Spraker &'Hogadone in the Arcade; and F. H. Seymour, New Kendall Block. The latter firm deals i.n second hand books and art goods. F. M. Hulswit, 157 Monroe, and D. J. Doornink, 8i Monroe, supply reading matter to a goodly number of Holland citizens, and also deal in stationery. ENGRAVERS ANI) ELECTROTV'PERS. In 1874 W. N. Fuller established a printing office at 75 Canal street. He had worked at engraving, and in I875 was able to combine that with his printing business. He also secured the services of \V. A. Reed, an engraver, and afterward the two formed a partnership under the name of Fuller & Reed. The making of illustrated catalogues for the furniture factories proved profitable, and other engraving firms came into existence. In i882, W. A. Reed organized the Grand Rapids Engraving Company, with F. K. Cargill as partner. About the beginning of i888 Reed sold out to Cargill, and, with others, organized The Valley City Engraving Company, whose establishment was recently moved to the corner of Pearl B30OKSELLERlS-ENGRAVERS-PRINTING PRESSES. 275 and Campau streets. The Grand Rapids Engraving Company, F. K. Cargill, managing proprietor, is located in the Eagle Block, 49 Lyon street. WV. N. Fuller, in I886, went into the Fuller & Stowe Printing and Engraving Company, of late situated on Louis street. An important specialty of the engravers of this city is furniture work. In this they receive orders for cuts from all parts of the country. Their business amounts to $30,000 or more yearly. Inll July, I887, C. Jurgen & Brother, of Chicago, established the Grand Rapids Electrotype foundry, on Mill street, opposite Erie. In January, I888, this was purchased by Olaf F. Nelson and Charles E. Ennes, and the works have been removed to Erie street. Their business is chiefly for the furniture trade and the newspapers. PRINTING MACHINES. In few departments of art is the progress of inventive genius and mechanical skill better shown than in the construction of printing presses. I rom the old Ramage and Washington hand presses to the complicated and almost automatic machines of the present day, is a great stride. For the various classes of printing, there is much variety in these machines, moved by hand, steam, water, gas or electric power. Some idea of the improvements may be gained from the illustrations here given. The Goss newspaper perfecting press shown, built expressly for the Tfrlegram — Herald Company in i889, is named Melita, in honor of the daughter of C. G. Swensberg, President of that company. W\ASHINGTON PRESS-GRAND RIVER "TIMES," 1837. AUTHORS AND PUBLICATIONS. Mrs. Rose Hartwick Thorp, author of the poem, "Curfew Shall Not Ring To-Night," known wherever the English language is spoken, now a resident of California, is a native of Michigan, and spent some years in Grand Rapids. Mrs. S. K. Torrey, besides being an artist of ability, is a pleasant writer, and a recent holiday brochure from her pencil and pen, entitled "Mission Sketches," and describing the old Catholic missions at Santa Barbara, California, was favorably received. Among writers of some local note is Joseph J. Baker, who wrote a book of poems and several dramatic pieces, and set them up and printed them with his own hand. His plays have never been put upon the stage. Charles D. Almy has done some clever work as a special writer for the papers. His style is modeled somewhat after that of "Bill Nye." In this connection the poems, and the rich, though sometimes coarse, humor of J. Mason Reynolds ("Farmer Reynolds"), should not be ignored. In 1882 he pub 276 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS lished a collection of his poems-a pamphlet of 99 pages. William A. Berkey, in I876, issued a book of 384 pages, entitled "The Money Question," a work indicating much labor and research. Three editions of it have been published. In I88o Luther V. Moulton published a volume of 27I pages, entitled "The Science of Money, and American Finances," wherein he revels in mathematics, tables of figures and abstruse speculations. In historical and scientific lines, Grand Rapids has produced some creditable works. Among these are Jackson D. Dillenback's "History and Directory of Kent County," issued in I870, and Prof. Franklin Everett's "Memorials of the Grand River Valley," a larger and more comprehensive volume, of about 6o00 pages, printed in I878. A Among theological works, the Coming Age Publishing Company, in I887, issued a pamphlet on the "Higher Teachings of Spiritualism." In I886 the Rev. S. H. Cobb prepared a paper on "The Philosophy and Theology of the Mind Cure," which was published in pamphlet form. The Rev. Kerr B. Tupper edited a volume entitled "Robertson's Living Thoughts," consisting of selections from the sermons of Frederick W. Robertson, a famous Divine of Brighton, England. The First Congregational Church Society issued in I884 a beautiful memorial volume in relation to, the life, services and death of its pastor, the Rev. J. Morgan Smith. In I88i Bishop D. D. Paterson, of the Children of Zion Church, published a small work entitled "A Casket of Poetical Treasures," original and selected. The Rev. P. Moerdyke, D. D., in i88o GOSS PE:RFE:CTING PRESS-BILT1II xi:XRESSIN F I: THE GA I~I~A.) i 88o. "History of Kent County," a book ponderous in size but not remarkable for its general accuracy, was published in I88I, by M. A. Leeson as historian, and C. C. Chapman & Co. as publishers, neither of whom ever lived in Grand Rapids. The Kent Scientific Institute, among its other means for the spread of knowledge, has issued scientific pamphlets from time to time. In I873, N. Coleman, a member, compiled under its auspices, a list of the flowering plants of the Southern Peninsula of Michigan, including some 725 species. This list.has been used extensively in later compilations of Michigan flora. A. 0. Currier prepared some valuable lists of Michigan shells, and Dr. Wm. H. DeCamp published a "Monogram on the Mollusks of Michigan." published a historical discourse, giving all account of the origin and progress of the First Reformed Church until it became selfsupporting in 1879 (35 pages), and a sermon to the young. Prof. Vos, Ph. D., issued a volume of some merit on "The Pentateuch," designed as a defense against recent criticisms. The Rev. Samuel Graves published the sermon preached at the dedication of the Fountain Street Baptist Church, and one commemorating his fifteen-years pastorate of that church. The Rev. A. R. Merriman in i888 published "A Study of the Divorce Problem." Georgie Young, who became intensely earnest in efforts for the relief and reclamation of fallen women, in I889 published a volume of i i6 pages, entitled: "A Magda AUTHORS AND PUBLICATIONS. 277 len's Life," which awakened great interest in the cause for which it was written. Beginning in 1870, Isaac H. Parrish wrote a series of some seventy articles, entitled: "History of Parties," which were published in the Grand Rappids Eagle during the following two years. Again in I886-87 he contributed to the West Michigan Farmers' Club a series of papers on "Law for the Farmers." About I870, Herbert E. Dewey contributed to the press a series of fifteen long articles on "Southern Prisons," with which he was made somewhat acquainted during the war. Among medical works produced by Grand Rapids Physicians, is a small treatise on "Homeopathic Treatment of Diphtheria," published in i88o by Dr. DeForest Hunt. A work on "Phthisis Pulmonaris" was published a year or two later by Dr. G. N. Brigham, of the Homeopathic School, who was also the author of one or two other treatises regarded as standard medical works. Dr. Charles J. Hempel was an author and translator of national repute in the line of Homeopathic medical literature. Among the makers and publishers of plain maps in the earlier days of the town were John Almy, W. L. Coffinberry, Robert S. Innes and John F. Tinkham. TIHI >I'Il MI S J'RIiS, ()N *FWHICH THIS B(OOK WAS PRINITED-THE DAN I N11 N11\(; AND) ' lII.ISiIN(; (( >. RtN I FKI.ECTRIC '()WEI CIIA PT E R XXXI. CHURCHES AND RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 1BY PETER MOERDYKE, 1). D. THE religions history of the city of Grand Rapids does not suffer by comparison with the gratifying story of its material developments. From its earliest settlement the clhurches have exerted a decided influence in forming the character of this community. The characteristic enterprise and aggressiveness evinced in all other departments have always marked our religious progress. The churches have, therefore, steadily kept pace with the rapid increase of the population, and the extension of the city within and beyond its boundaries. Our church edifices are, with but few exceptions, modest structures of moderate cost, but commodious and tasteful, and in their ample accommodations and fine equipments quite comport with the tastes and needs of the people. In estimating the religious status of our city, comparisons with that of the leading cities of the Union are largely in our favor. The summary appended to this chapter demonstrates that in this regard we are "citizens of no mean city." The exhibit is quite remarkable, and should not escape the attention of those who would recommend this as a place of residence that combines with all other urban advantages exceptional religious privileges and moral influences. All of our mixed population are provided with adequate church privileges, and, with a considerable diversity of denominations represented here, sectarianism is happily at a minimum among us. It is gratifying to note that our leaders of public and commercial affairs have generally been the stanch friends of the churches. The past decade has been conspicuously one of missions, new organizations and material improvements, and to the present houses of worship that adorn our city, the early execution of present projects will add many such noble proofs of the religious spirit so prevalent among all classes. SEVENTH i)A A DVEN 11STS. (;OOi) T.MI'I.ARS!AILI., MC MI'I.I. N HI.LO K, SO THITl )IVISIN)N STR EET. On the first of May, i886, a mission was established in this city under the Superintendency of Elder H. W. Miller. The work was begun with six Bible-readers, whose number increased to twenty-five during the first year. A course of scriptural study was pursued in the Training School at the "mission" house, then and for two years at:94 Sheldon street, and six were educated and sent abroad. Encouraged by this successful commencement, the State Conference held its large annual Camp Meeting here that year, beginning Sept. 17. In August, I887, Elders Van Horn and Wales were conmmissioned to hold a series of meetings here, which assembled in a large tent on the west side of South Division street, between First and Second avenues. These continued for six weeks, with a large attendance, and won a considerable number to this faith, in consequence of which a church was organized with about forty constituent members, among whom were Mr. and Mrs. McPherson, Mr. and Mrs. H. F. Long, Mr. and Mrs. Gustave Rose, Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Gildersleeve, and others. They held their regular worship and Sabbath School at Ringuette's Hall, southeast corner Fifth avenue and South Division street, until May 5, i889, when they rented their present capacious and central place of worship, at which service and Sabbath school are held on Sabbath (Saturday), and worship also on Sunday. During the summer of i888 tent meetings were held for several weeks, on Summer street, near West Bridge street, under the pastoral direction of Elder 280 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. F. D. Starr. He was succeeded in the fall by Elder L. G. Moore, at present in charge of the mission. The Mission House, hired for residence of the pastor and three Biblereaders, was from the fall of 1888 until May, i889, at 345 Crescent avenue. The pastor now resides on Sinclair street. The strength acquired by this mission is represented by the statistics, which report seventy members, and Sabbath school membership i O. The church, while not making it obligatory, strenuously holds and teaches that the members should contribute one-tentli of their income for the Lord's work, and these local tithes realized for the past year over $600, the total revenue being $753, and expenditures $8oo. Still being a mission, the State Conference provides for it, but the tithes go into the Conference fund, out of which the pastors are comfortably maintained, not at a fixed salary, but according to their real needs. FOUNTAIN STR' EE'T B1APTIST CHURCH. SOUTHWEST CORNER OF FOUNTAIN ANI) IBOSI\ICK STREE'S. As early as 1822 a Baptist mission was located here among the Ottawa tribe of Indians, which bore the name of the Thomas Station, in honor of one of the early English Baptist missionaries to India. Little, however, was done in the way of missionary work until about I826, when the Rev. Isaac McCoy came and organized a school of twenty-five pupils. Soon after this, the Rev. Leonard Slater, a laborious, devoted and patient Christian worker, took charge of the mission. In 1832 a church was formed among the Indians. Judge E. W. Davis has left the following interesting memorandum of this mission: The Baptist station consisted of two or three block houses, and a school-house near what is now Bridge street. At the foot of the rapids were twelve or fifteen Indian board houses and a good-sized meetinghouse. The Indians connected with the mission owned a sawmill at the head of the rapids. The church contained twenty-five members. The head chief of the tribe, Noonday, was an eminent Christian, who delighted in religious exercises, speaking with great force, concluding, often, by saying he was weak and ignorant, knew but little, therefore he should say no more. In I836 the mission, together with the Indians, was removed to Gull Prairie. The next year after their removal, I837, the first Baptist church was organized in Grand Rapids, composed cf immigrants to the Territory. It was gathered by the efforts of the Rev. S. D. Wooster, and contained seven members: Henry Stone, Thomas Dlavis, Ezekiel 'W. Davis, Abram Randall and wife, Zelotis Bemis and a Mr. Streeter -all of whom have passed away. Mr. Wooster remained with the church but a short time, and for the next four or five FOUNTAIN STRF.T RAPTIST CHI'RCHT-Bl'II.T IN T872. years they were without a pastor. Several of the members moved away and the church virtually became extinct. In I842 the Rev. T. Z. R. Jones was sent into this part of the State by the American Baptist Home Missionary Society, and the church was resuscitated. Mr. Jones remained only two or three years, making Grand Rapids his headquarters and preaching in the towns and settlements about; when he left, the church was again without a pastor, struggling along, few in numbers, weak in resources. They met for worship, sometimes in private houses; for awhile in the old Court-house which stood in the Park; in the school-house on Prospect Hill, and again in an upper room in the National Hotel. In Judge E. W. Davis they found a natural leader, who did much to keep up their meetings and their courage, and whose exhortations supplied the place of preaching. Of those who belonged to the church then, the only surviving members are Lewis C. Davidson and J. C. Buchanan. C. HCHCHES-F(WNTAIN STREET BAPTIST. S 1 About tllis time a lot was purchased on the West Side as a site for a church edifice; and materials were collected for btilding it. But the church was not able to procure a title to the property, and the project failed. Thle church was stipplied at different times )by the Rev F. I.. Batchelder, who organized a church at Indian Creek, now the \lpine and \Valker church. This took a numbnl)er of memb)ers from the Grand Rapids church. In I848 the cllhirch purchased the old Episcopal house of worship at the corner of Bronson and North i)ivision streets, where now stands the residence of Julius B3erkey. About the same time the church called the Rev. C. A. Jenison to be its pastor. lie was a youlng man of promise, and a timne of brighter and better tllings seemed to be opening for the church. But Mr. Jenison's health soon failed, and he was obliged to resign. In 1849 came the Rev. A. J. Binglham as pastor. He was an earnest preacher and faithful pastor. He remained only two years, and in his tturn was followed by the Rev. Francis Prescott, a man of unselfish life and missionary zeal, whose stay with the church as its pastor was about the usual two years. In 1856 the Rev. L. M. Woodruff became pastor. At his suggestion the church was disbanded, for the purpose of a somewhat different organization, and the Tabernacle Church was formed. This led to an unhappy division of interests, to separation, and the reorganization of the First Church. After Mr. \Voodrilff resigned, the Tabernacle Church called the Rev. S. F. Holt to become its pastor; a man energetic in character. and of much force and ability as a preacher. The First Church was statedly supplied by the Rev. Abel Bingham; a man whose fidelity and spirit of sacrifice had been long and well tested in missionary work at the Sault Ste. Marie, and who died and was buried here in November, I865, honored and full of years. A short time before Mr. Holt's resignation, which took place in i86o, the two churches came together and Mr. Holt was pastor of the reunited church. But in i86 the Second Church was formed, and the Revs. C. C. Miller, A. Stanwood and others supplied the pulpit until May, i863, when the Rev. C. B. Smith, D. D., was called to be its pastor, a man of power, still rePsiding here in his old age. The Rev. Mr. 2 4 13ingham and( the Rev. Mr. Fay continued to supply the First Chtirch tntil i862, when the Rev. Peter Van \Vinkle became its pastor. D1)ring the pastorates of Dr. Smith and Mr. Van \Vinkle, the churches built houses of worship; the First Chutrch a brick strulcture on the site of the present one, and the Second Church on North Division street between Foluntain and Pearl streets. Both tlhese pastors were very earnest men an(l did their work with a will that did mulch to inspire the churches in their undertakings. I)During the pastorate of Mr. Van\Vinkle the church in the adjoining town of Paris was formed, from mnemllers of the First Church, bu)t even after tis loss it remained tlhe stronger of the two city chllrches. In Janliary, i867, Dr. Smnith resigned, and the Rev. Nathan A. Reed was called to the pastorate, who entered ipon hlis (duties in the following Iay. He served the church well and aibly for two years. I-ollowVing Mr. Van \Vinkle. the First Chulrch called the Rev. Isaac Butterfield, in April, 1867. Messrs. BJutterfield and Reed worked heartily together and did much in laying the foundations on which the prosperity of tile Baptist cause here has risen. Two churches so near together, both weak; were manifestly not meeting, nor did they seem likely to meet, the prospective demand tipon the Baptists of the city, and these brethren had the wisdom to see it. Accordingly, on the I Ith of January, I869, a meeting was held by members of the two churchles for the pulrpose of forming an organization which should consolidate them. To bring about this transition, twelve brethren, with the mutual understanding of all parties concerned, organized the present church, to be known as "The Baptist Church of the City of Grand Rapids." Of these twelve brethren six were from the First Church: John Whlitmore, J. C. Buchanan. Abram Randall, Orris Bonney, C. A. Wall and B. F. Gouldsbutry; and six from thle Second Church: James S. Crosby, R. B. Loomis, Geo. \V. Hewes, John Calkins, D. Mc\Vhorter and J. Frederic Baars. Thereupon the two former churches dismissed tlieir 250 melmbers to tlie new organization in April, and an era of greater prosperity was entered. Mr. C. A. WVall was chosen Clerk, and has since retained that office. Tlhe united church called the Rev. I. Butterfield, but he declined, whereupon the 2WS2 HISr()RY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Rev. Samuel Graves, D. D., was secured as their pastor, and entered upon his long and successful pastorate the first Sunday in January, i870. The Doctor found 260 members in his new charge. For a short period they had worshiped in the brick edifice of the old First Church, but this proving unsatisfactory, the late Wm. Hovey suggested that they increase the seating capacity by constructing a roomy gallery on three sides of the house belonging to the Second Church on North Division street, which was done. There the new pastor found them housed. But the place was soon too small, and in the middle of the year 1870 steps were taken for the building of a suitablle house. The spot already hallowed in the affections of many who formerly belonged to the First Church was happily agreed upon for the site. In the fall of I87 I the old brick church building was torn (lown-the material being (iven to the contractor in addition to $6o,ooo for which the work was let-ground was broken and tihe stone foundations built. In May', 1872, the corner stone was laid with apt)ropriate ceremnonies. The pastor then obtained leave of absence, and in June began a vacation of seven months, which he enjoyed in the Holy Land and European countries. W\hile he was abroad the Rev. Butler Morley supplied the pulpit, and the new house was enclosed. In the summer of 1873 the society disposed of the old property on North Division street to the Trustees of the First Reformed Church for the su5m of $6,500, but continued to occupy the building until October. On the 2ist of December, 1873, the capacious and finely furnished and decorated basement was dedicated. Meanwhile there was slow progress toward the completion of the church, for the resources of the people wvere drained, and various measures and devices were adopted to raise the funds required to finish the auditorium. It was, consequently, not until April, I877, that they could assemble for worship in the magnificent audience room. The financial report then stated that no less than $90,0o00 had been expended upon the structure with all its equipments. and that there remained a debt of $20,000. While Dr. Graves remained, the greatly increased current expenses of the church were met and $7,000 of this debt liquidated. The membership constantly grew and the church acquired great prominence in the community under the labors of this eminently able and earnest pastor, who was universally beloved in this city. But in May, I885, he severed his connection with the church by resignation, and in June following the Rev. Kerr B. Tupper, D. D., pastor here from that time until March 23, 1890, was elected, who accepted and in July was recognized, and assumed the pastoral charge. Since then three thriving mission Sunday schools have been established: The Calvary, on South Division street, in Ringuette's Hall; the Immanuel, on Sinclair street, in the Swedish Lutheran Church (in March, I889, one of the members gave a lot on North College avenue, near Hastings street, upon which a chapel was completed in May and then occupied by this mission), and the Berean, on Plainfield avenue. in New England Hall. The latter two schools, together with the parent school, enroll about 900 scholars. The second Baptist Church, on Gold street. and the Wealthy Avenue Baptist Church are also the offspring of this church, whiclh, because of this additional numbellr of organizations, and for sake of distinction, two years ago adopted its present name. The 2d of December, i888, was a notalble Sunday in their history. It was the jubilee most joyously celebrated together with its two ecclesiastical children just named on the occasion of the final payment of that debt, which until recently retained the huge and ugly proportions of $13,ooo, and then the auditorium was at last dedicated. The pew-renting system is adhered to by the church, from which most of the annual revenue of about $II,500 is derived, out of which, besides generous contributions of individual nlembers, it has liberally aided and fostered the Wealthy Avenue Baptist church in its infancy. T77e Bapid Rleeco-rd is a monthly paper published and supported by the church and devoted to her various interests. In February, I889, the church employed Miss Hattie Mulhern as a missionary, to l)e an assistant to the pastor. The present membership is 713, and numerous organizations materially assist in the extensive and varied work of the church; such as the Woman's Home Mission Circle, \Voman's Foreign Mission Society, Woman's Industrial Society, Young People's League, Pastor's Training Class, Young Helpers and King's Daughters, Tens. The CHURCHES — IFOUNT;\IN STREET, SECOND, AND WEALTHY AVENUE 3BAPTIST 283 following serve in official capacities: Cornelius A. Wall, Clerk; James S. Hawkins, Treasurer. Deacons-Cornelius A. Wall, Robert Davidson, Nelson W. Smith, Win. W. Gould, Robert B. Loomis, John C. Buchanan, Orsamus W. Horton, James K. Johnston, Alfred A. Stearns, Wm. N. Rowe. Deaconesses (an office introduced about I875, and very similar to that of Deacon)-Mrs. Esther Potter, Mrs. Sophia Buchanan, Mrs. Lucy E. Steketee, Mrs. Jane Stearns, Mrs. Amelia Crosby, Mrs. Charlotte Davidson, Mrs. Anna Morley, Mrs. Eliza Daniels, Miss Ella C. Smith. Board of Trustees-Enos Putman, Perrin V. Fox, Wm. D. Talford, Moreau S. Crosby, Roger W. Butterfield, Geo. G. Steketee, J. Frederic Baars, James K. Johnston, Orson A. Ball, D. B. Shedd. Sunday-school Superintendents - Of the Fountain Street school, M. S. Crosby; of Calvary Mission, R. B. Loomis; of Immanuel Mission, W. C. Sheppard. At Berean Mission, a chapel is now building. SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH. SO[T IHWEST CORNER OF GOLD AND CALIFORNIA ST IEE'IS. The father of this church is Deacon J. W. Converse, of the First Baptist Church of Boston, Massachusetts, who has for many years had large business and real estate interests in this city, and is withal a zealous Baptist. In I883 the liberality of Deacon Converse toward this church commenced by the donation of a lot 132 feet square and the building and furnishing of a house of worship thereon, which was appropriately dedicated September 30, I883. The first Baptist mission school on the west side was then organized to occupy this edifice, and on the 8th of October a church was organized with fifty-six constituent members, who were previously connected with the Fountain Street Baptist Church. The Rev. E. H. Brooks then became its pastor and remained in that relation until Junuary 20, 1889, when he was compelled to resign on account of ill health. The progress made by this church may be gathered from such figures as these: Membership 146, Sunday School scholars 226, and about Ioo families belonging to the parish. Besides this, a prosperous mission Sunday School, of which W. N. Rowe is superintendent, is established in the old Sixth ward engine house, recently purchased of the city, and has 200 members. The value of the property is $8,5oo, and toward the annual expenses of the society Mr. Converse has ever contributed generously. From the first he has also maintained an able choir at his own charge. The receipts of the past year were nearly $I,700. The 350 sittings are free, and there is no debt. The officers are as follows: Deacons, Geo. W. Gay, John Rookus and Alexander Dodds; A. Dodds, Treasurer, and Wm. A. Haynes, Clerk; Trustees, Wilber A. Studley, H. C. Edwards, Geo. W. Gay, John Rookus, John A. Booyer, R. W. Merrill. Sunday School Superintendent, J. E. Cheney. Societies: WVoman's Home and Foreign Mission, Ladies' Social Society, Young People's Literary, Y. P. S. C. E., and Children's Mission Band. The present pastor, the Rev. R. W. Van Kirk, assumed charge October 13, I889. WEAITHY AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH. NORTHEAST CORNER OF WEALTHY AVENUE AND EAST STREET. This owes its existence to a Mission Sunday School established in the summer of I 875 by the Fountain Street Baptist Church. Soon after a Chapel, worth, with site, $ I, 200, was built on Charles street, near Wealthy avenue, where the school and other Sabbath services were held until after the organization of the church on January I2, i885. At this time the Rev. E. R. Bennett became its pastor. Prominent among the first members appear the names of Mr. and Mrs. A. \V. Fisher, L. C. Remington, Mrs. Ira Remington, Mrs. Stewart, H. K. Stewart, Mrs. 0. M. Dunham, Mrs. Frank Maybee, Mrs. and Miss Freeman, Mrs. Emily Ford, Mrs. Cole and her son Harry, Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Barr, and Mrs. Miles Barber. The first Trustees were: A. W\. Fisher, L. C. Remington, A. E. Barr, A. W. Donaldson, Frank Maybee. First Deacons: A. W. Fisher, S. E. Curdy, John Calkins. Treasurer and Clerk, L. H. Stewart. The energetic pastor soon interested his people in a building project, the fruit of which is the present noble structure, having a seating capacity of 700, erected at a cost, including the site, of $o,00ooo. The corner-stone was laid Oct. 19, i886, and the chapel, their old home, was incorporated with the parlors of the new building. The dedication occurred Jan. I6, i887. The growth of the church has been rapid, its present membership being i6o, with a Sunday school of 250 284 284 ~~~HISTORY OF THE' CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. scholars. The bonded indebtedness of the church is $4,000, and the annuAl income nearly $i,8oo, the seats being free. Bes,~ides Ladies' Home and Foreign Missionary Societies, the church has a Y. P. S. C. E., claim reluctantly, accepted, and resigned his pastorate here December 31, i888. The Rev. John Donnelly, D. D., of Owosso, Michbigan, then came, and labored here from March i, 1 889, until his death, Februarv 17. V A\ FNI F V. A PIA', I ( III PCI I FK I" CI FI) IN:] 88o. iug the largest memblership in the city, also a larg~e, uIsefUl Literary and Musical Society. 7/hc J/lo,,to;r. a smnall journal in the interest of the local church, was published for a timle by the pastor, afterward conducted by Dr. IDonnellv as the WVea/li/u 47etnu' 1B7A/f/si. I n tile spring" of j888 Mr. Bennett wvas coimlpelled to leave his wvork for a season in quest of health. He returned from California after a rest of three months alble to resumei his labors, but toward the end of the year a settlement in that mild climiate appeared necessary. and1 when a call from Pomiona. Cal., was extended, hie promptly. though 8go. The present officers are: D eacons. John Calkins, A. WV. Fisher, Willi11am EH. Calkins, S. E. Curd) andl E'. G. Eldwards: Clerk, Milton E. Osborn: Treasurer. C. S. Weatherly: Trustees, A. NV. Fisher, J.N. Baldie, A. E. Remington, Win. EH. Calkinls. Chas. NV. Pick-ell and the Clerk. SundaySchool Superintendent. S. I-,. Ciirdy. Miss IAuH:A I" Tisi cu~ii I-( ic N.) This wvas organized at Ringuette Is Hall. on South Division street, with twelve\, charter members, October 28, 1889, when Messrs. NV. H-. Brown, 'ihos. W'alkcr and1 Geo. NV. C(HURCHEIS-CAIVARY BAPI'TIST —BIBLE CHRISTIANS —CHILDREN OF ZION. 285 Smith were chosen Deacons; C. J. Minissee, Clerk, and Geo. Boyer, Treasurer. With the financial aid of the Missionary Board and the Fountain Street Baptist Church, they secured as their pastor the Rev. J. \V. Johnson, who entered upon his charge December 22, 1889. This new church worships in the hall where it was organized, morning and evening, the congregation reaching the maximum of ninety attendants, and the membership has grown to the number of thirty-one. The Sunday School was organized January 12, i890. The estimated outlay of the first year is about $400, in addition to about $ioo received as aforementioned. CALVAR'Y BAPTIST CHURCH. RIN(E.'TTE'S HA I., SO()l'H IIVISI(N STRkE'I'. The mission conducted for two years past by the Fountain Street Baptist Church was organized as a church November 8, i889, with thirty-five constituent members. It is largely under the care of the mother church for the present, in the hope of securing suitable grounds and a chapel in the spring of 189o. and of an increase of strength that shall soon render it independent. Messrs. W\. P. Smith, J. S. Henson and C. A. Balcorm are the Trustees, and R. B. Loomis the Superintendent of a flourishing Sunday School which enrolls I6o scholars. The Rev. E. Ti. Brooks assumed the pastoral charge of this enterprise January I, i90o. 1ILI,E CH RISIIANS. \1 17( J..C'\IC SN SIE,EI. A Mr. Baker began to hold undenominational Sabbath services on the ground floor of the store at 331 \Vest Bridge street, iln Septembler, 1886. Various elements gathered around him. The Rev. Thomas T. Brown, who was pastor of the African M. IE. Zion Church on Fifth avenue from 1879 to 881, l)ut who has for some time resided here without charge or ecclesiastical connection, became the preacher of this congregation December, I886, when there were nineteen Free Methodists and eleven withoult any church relations or preferences The former formed their own church at this time. In February.!887, there was a further separationl. owing to dissensions, when the remaining eleven were organized by the colored preacher uinder the name of ''The Bible Christians Associated in Christ." On March i they began to hold their meet ings at the house of Henry Porter, 176 Jackson street, and remained in their brother's dwelling until November, when they returned to the store, occupying it six months. Then they found a room in Filbert's block, corner Davidson and Fifth streets, but in November, i888, they felt unable to pay rent any longer and were once more welcomed by Mr. Porter to his home. The congregation varies from thirty to fifty, of whom only fourteen are members of "the class," representing eight or ten families of steady adherents, with fifteen in the Sunday School. Messrs. Porter, Mason, George Webb and Charles Miller are the officers, and Allen G. Davidson local preacher. They have conceived a dislike to the sects, and believing in Christian union, hope to promote it by this organization. They present the remarkable instance of a white congregation with an African minister, who serves gratuitously, laboring with his own hands for his livelihood. The prospect of their permanence and influence is not flattering. THE CHIILDREN OF ZION CHURCH. S('RlINIB R S'I'RIE'I, BEIWt' EN NINTH ANX) T.NT!' STl'REETS. A brief sketch of the body of which this society is the center and most flourishing congregation. seems necessary here. Among those who, early in this century, in considerable numbers, left other denominations on account of their views of the second coming of Christ, were the founders of this sect, which at first bore no name, and by some was called -Trine- Immersionists," by others "Adventists." Until 1870 they were located in different parts of the New England States, and chiefly in Boston. In 1874 a church was organized at Listowel, Ontario, Canada, by EIlder J. B. Brown, of Laconia, N. H., and in March, I878, a Conference was held at Preston, Ontario, at which they adopted the name of "The Children of Zion." Shortly afterward a monthly paper called The/ Day-S/ar of IZion was published. which was enlarged in i88o, and issued under its present name, The Dacwn of th/ M/ornting, which has ever since been published here, having a circulation of some 3,500, and was until recently edited by Bishop Paterson. In May, i88i, the Conference assembled in this city, and elected Elder D. D. Paterson, then pastor here, Bishop of the entire 286 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. sect, with full oversight thereof; and Grand Rapids became its headquarters. The leading peculiarities of their creed are: Belief in the one God, opposed to the doctrine of a trinity; that Jesus Christ is His only begotten Son, who had no existence as an entity prior to that begetting; that the one Spirit is an immortal influence or power emanating from the Deity and connecting man with his God, which Spirit is the witness of God that we are His children, which operates in the church in gifts and signs following them that believe, as of old. They believe in the mortality of man, who can live through eternity only by the gift of eternal life through Christ, and hence in the annihilation of the wicked. The earth will be the future home of the redeemed, and we are upon the eve of Christ's return to earth. Congregations adopting these views are found in Ontario, Canada; Spring Lake, Michigan; Cherokee, Iowa, and Glasgow, Scotland; besides small flocks and isolated families scattered over our continent. The church in this city had its origin in the efforts of Elders James Evans, J. B. Brown and D. D. Paterson, who labored, in the order mentioned, between 1875 and 1878. In the fall of i878 the work had assumed such proportions that Elder D. D. Paterson moved his family from Canada to settle here as pastor. The numllber of its charter members was thirty-four, of whom Charles A. Haines, William Young, Charles E. Revell, George F. Hawley and Andrew Holmes were elected as the first Board of Trustees. The society held its first meeting in Lincoln Hall, on West Bridge street, and from that time for several years the growth of the church was marked. In I88i they erected a fine church edifice on Scribner street, having a seating capacity of about 400, which was dedicated May 7, i882, and, including the site, is valued at $8,ooo. The seats are free. In i886 Bishop Paterson left for Europe and never returned. His death occurred in France in the autumn of I887, and was followed by shocking disclosures of gross immoralities of which he had been guilty for several years, and his imposition upon his people here, at whose expense largely he lived abroad, was a revelation that profoundly disturbed and threatened the church during the ministry of the Bishop's brother, Elder John Paterson. The latter officiated from August, 1887, until November, i888, having been preceded by Elders Northrop and Spencer, who acted somewhat alternately during the previous year. There had been a marked falling off in numbers since i886, on account of certain suspicious conduct of the Bishop; but his fall so unsettled their affairs for a season that the church was constrained to clear itself before the public, and reorganized its society, with Elder H. A. Olmstead as its pastor, from November, i888, throughout I889, and now reports I75 members, a few more adherents, 75 Sunday School scholars, and an annual income of $2,000. Elder S. Mcllraith superintends the Sunday School. Elders, S. McIlraith and T. H. Truscott; Deacons, C. E. Revell, James Eddy and F. Harmon; Trustees, T. H. Truscott, S. McIlraith, Edward Manly, C. E. Revell and Charles Blakeslee, were the officers of the church in the fall of I888. FIRST (PARK) CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. CORNER PARK AND EAST P'ARK STREETS. The organization of this church took place September 18, I836. The first service was held in the dining-room of Myron Hinsdill, whose house stood on the ground now occupied by the Morton House, the Rev. S. Woodbury, of Kalamazoo, officiating. Twenty-two persons became charter members and adopted the Presbyterian form of government, constituting the Session by the choice of George Sheldon and Samuel Howland as Elders, and Ebenezer Davis and Myron Hinsdill as Deacons. For several months public worship was maintained at Deacon Hinsdill's by the reading of sermons and the occasional preaching of a minister, and a Sunday school was organized. A marked step of progress was taken when, in 1837, April Jo, the infant church hired the Rev. A. D. McCoy for one year. The Presbytery to which they belonged was spread over magnificent distances, and hence the pastor and Elder Howland were about two weeks attending the only meeting of that body at which this church was ever represented. They made this journey to White Pigeon, ioo miles south, on horseback. Thd Rev. James Ballard came here to reside about the time that Mr. McCoy's year expired, and by request preached for them until he became their stated supply by vote of the society March 29, 1839. The meeting of this date, held at the Court CHURCHES-THE PARK CONGl(;GATIONAL. House on the Public Square just opposite the present church, marks an era in their history, since they then and there reorganized as the First Congregational Church of j w, twelve of whom were dismissed the following year in August to found the First Reformed church. Until then they had been quite nomadic of necessity. In April, I837, the church. worshiped in a building belonging to W. G. Henry adjoining the house of Myron Hinsdill. From there they moved to a room over the store of A. H. Smith, on Waterloo street, where their Sunday school was more formally organized and improved under the superintendency of Mr. Smith's brother. Here they remained until April, I839, and next we find them in the Court House aforenamed, of which, -:' however, they had no I-. monopoly on Sunday, as other denominations just springing up at this time A^,,.^ also occupied it by turns. Sometimes they used the a- ';l.,,'; ^. MProspect Hill schoolR '; house, which stood on the site now occulpied by the L edyard block, and occasionally foullnd their way iback to their starting point in the old dining-rooll of Mr. Hinsdill, till a roomi in a house of Amos Roberts, on the site of the present Peninsular Club House,gave them shelter. Iluit in I841 the Roman Catholic house of worship, built in I837-38 for St. Andrew's parish by Louis Campau, but never deeded. was by him offered for sale. Stephen Hinsdill appears to have been most eager, and to have had the greatest confidence in the ability of the society to get possession of it for his church, and soon after visited Eastern ',-~~?churches and was so successful in his solicitation IN x869. of aid as to secure the deed of the coveted property December 2I, i841, on making the first payment out of funds he had collected. The price paid was $3,700, and individuals gave their notes for the unpaid balance, annually reported FIRST PARK CONGRE(;ATI()NAI. CHUtRCH- lt'.L Grand Rapids. Articles of Faith and Covenant were also adopted, and Samuel F. Butler and Ebenezer Davis chosen Deacons, and W. G. Henry, Clerk. The new society was composed of sixty members, ten or HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. as a debt for fourteen years after. An effort was made to liquidate this debt by once more appealing to churches in the New England States. This time it was done by the Rev. James Ballard, who spent nine months in I842 in the effort, and raised a considerable sum, but by no means equal to their obligations. During Mr. Ballard's absence a Baptist minister occupied his place. Possession of the house was taken and on the 2d of January, 1842, the church was dedicated,.the Rev. J. P. Cleveland, D. D., preaching the sermon. On the ioth of January a board of nine Trustees was elected. The building was still incomplete; seats were placed in it during the year, and at once became a source of revenue, the terms being "quarterly payments in grain, shingles, lumber or cash." Mr. Luther Beebe, on January 3, I842, circulated a subscription for a church bell, and the largest amount pledged was $25, the smallest $i, and the first funereal tolling done by this bell was for the death of Mr. Beebe. But the bell, too, had but a few years of life, being cracked one frosty morning, and was returned to Troy, N. Y., to be recast. On resuming its place it did good service for this community until the present church was built, when it was exchanged with the Meneely firm for a larger one, the difference in price being given by the Hon. T. D. Gilbert. This church edifice, with the parsonage adjoining, in the rear on Fulton street, stood on the ground of the present Porter Block, corner of Monroe and South Division streets. It was used, with various additions and changes, for twenty-seven years. It perished in the flames, on the morning of November 26, 1872, only a photograph of it and the key remaining. The Rev. James Ballard served the church until December 29, i847, having never, during his nine years here, received a stated salary, owing largely to the fact that the church was far from self-sustaining, receiving annually about $200 from the Home Missionary Society. Mr. Ballard left his lasting impress on the new settlement and the church, for he was a man of great zeal and energy, and with great devotion fostered the cause of religion and education. The Rev. Thomas Jones succeeded him, serving as pastor for two and a half years with a previously unequaled success, the fruit of which was the acces sion of 140 members during his brief stay. During his time the rotatory system of electing Deacons was adopted. His successor, the Rev. H. L. Hammond, was installed June 15, I85I, and served until April 4, 1856, when he resigned on account of a bronchial trouble that disqualified him for the pulpit. Several noteworthy events fell within his pastorate here. First, letters of dismissal were granted to several to form a Second Congregational Church, which, with the Rev. James Ballard as its pastor, worshiped in the edifice belonging to the Swedenborgian Society, and was disbanded about 1856; secondly, letters of dismissal were granted in October, I855, to Sarell Wood and eleven others to found the First Presbyterian Church on the west side; thirdly, in 1855 the house of worship was enlarged to accommodate the growing congregation; fourthly, an organ was purchased for Si.ooo, which, with the additions made to it on its removal to the new church, was in use until i886, when it gave place to the finer one which they now have: and, fifthly, through the exertions of this efficient worker the debt of fourteen years standing was paid in full. The next pastor, not easily forgotten )by those who knew him, was the Rev. S. S. N. Greeley, of Great Barrington, Mass., wlho commenced his labors here May io, 1857. In December, I862, he joined the army as a Chaplain, retaining his relations to the church until July, 1863, the Rev. Wi\. L. Page supplying the pulpit during the half year's absence of the pastor. During this pastorate i90 were admitted to the church. The late Rev. J. Morgan Smith followed, beginning his labors, as stated slupply, in September, I863, which were terminated 1)) his death, at Dansville, N. Y., October I, i883. Beautiful memorial tablets, suitably inscribed and recording the appreciation of the church of their former pastors, the Revs. James Ballard and J. Morgan Smith, adorn the paneled walls on either side of the pulpit. During Mr. Smith's pastorate of twenty years there was prosperity and growth iln all departments of church work. The two missions, which have become independent churches, viz: the Second Congregational Church on Plainfield avenue, originally located on Canal street just south of East Leonard, and the South Congregational Church, on the northeast corner of Center and McDowell streets, were begun and fos CHl-) RCHES ---P'Al ANI) SICON1) (CON(;GE(;ATIONAL. *,.sN( 'R,) ( '.\TI. A,) \EA I )( ),\.I, S'I R F'. sN. In the winter of 1874, tlhe Ladies' Home MIissionary Society of the Park Congregational Church of this city. were looking for a new field of mission labor. Their attention was called to the southern part of this city' there was then neither church nor Sabbath school-save the African M. E. Zion Church-south of the center of the city. This vicinity was then but sparsely settled. There were many families whose children were )by their distance from the central churches deprived of Sabbath school instruction. 1To meet this want, the African Church, on Fifth avenue near Jefferson street, was fixed upon as the place for holding the school. This was rented, and on the first Sunday in March, I874, the South Mission Sabbath School was organized. Mrs. L. A. Boise was elected Superintendent. Eighty-six children formed the school at its first session. Of teachers Mrs. Edward Hanchett, Mrs. E. P. Pierce, Mrs. M. J. Hess, and Mr. and Mrs. Marcus WV. Bates, were with the school from its beginning. Those from the Park Congregational Church present during the first years of the Mission, were: Madams J. Morgan Smith, Immen, McKay, Winchester, Sanford, Mosely, and Boise; Misses Reed, Hanchett, Morrison, Henshaw, Nichols and Field; and Messrs. C. H. Gleason and A. B. Carrier. The school increased until too large for the church. It was then proposed to erect a more capacious building. Suitable ground was offered by Francis B. Gilbert, where the chapel stood for some years, a CH'I'IR('IIES- SOU'IH CONGREGATIONAL —SMITH lMEI()ORIAL. 9 t little east of the present church, for $6o00, half the price at which it was valued. Finally Mr. Gilbert gave, not half, but the whole of the site, and solicitation for funds with which to build a plain frame chapel of 30 by 50 feet was begun. Through the efforts of Mrs. Montague and Mrs. Boise, on behalf s,' t ( )N\(GRE;ATIlI~NAL (It.' ( i-, iI.T.1 IN t886. of the Park Church, and of Mrs. Bates, Mrs. Hanchett and Mrs. Pierce, on behalf of the Soulth Mission, $IQOO was subscribed. Building was begun in the fall of i875, and the work was completed in the spring of i876. Here the Sabbath school flourished and grew to an average attendance of I50. About that time the M. E. Sabbath school was established at the Fair Grounds, and many children of Methodist families with(Irew to join that, reducing the average attendance here to 125. In 1876 the Rev. Mr. Brown commenced preaching in this chapel. After six months he left the field, and until the end of 1877 this people were without stated service. For the most part, the Sabbath school and prayer-meeting, which were always kept up, were the only services held. In December, 1877, the Rev. E. C. Olney commenced a pastorate with this Church, in connection with the North Church of this city. For one year he preached each Sunpay evening, and attended the prayermeeting each week: doing pastoral work among the families here. So much encouraged were he and the congregation, that a church was organized December 12, I878, with a membership of forty-three, twenty-five of whom came from Park Congregational Church. This took place in the parlors of Park Congregational Church, where the Council was assembled, which recognized this new church. Mr. Olney remained another year, the morning and evening services alternating between this and the Second Church, the pastor residing with this church for six months of the year. In December, I879, he resigned, and on January i, i88o, the Rev. Benjamin F Sargent assumed charge. The congregation grew rapidly, hence an addition of 30 by i8 feet to the chapel was secured for its accommodation; but in i886 the present site was purchased, in Auglust the old church was moved to this location and wholly reconsttucted, much after the Queen Anne style, at a cost of S6,ooo, and was dedicated December 12, 1886. The building is 6o by 87 feet in size, containing, besides the elegant auditorium with its 300 opera chairs, other convenient roonms that open into the audience room, enlarging the seating capacity, if need be, to 600. It is furnished in excellent taste, and the property is now worth $8,000. The annual receipts are $2,000, and the numerical strength as follows: Number of people in any way connected with the congregation, I,200; members, 210; Sunday school scholars, I98. The seats are practicallv free. The officers are: Deacons, O. E.. Belden, John T. Miller, Albert Smith, Albert Robinson; Deaconesses, Mrs. Helen M. Pollard, Mrs. Mary Smith; Advisory Committee, the foregoing, and \Vm. H. Kinsey and M. \V. Bates; Trustees, J. K. Failing, Myron Hester. E. E. Hanchet, John T. Miller, Frank P. Smith, \V. N. Fuller, H. A. Turner, 0. E. Belden. E. J. Carrel; Clerk and Treasurer, Fred. Mace); Collector and Secretary, NV. H. \Wood; Superintendents of Sunday School, Wm. H. Kinsey and W. N. Fuller. The Rev. B. F. Sargent resigned July i, 1889, after a successful pastorate of nine and one-half years. The Rev. Franklin Noble, D. D., assumed pastoral charge October i, 1889. SMITrH MEMORIAL. CHURCHt. N()I1 II\t'ESI (Co.RNER WIAI. II.\\ KN ANI) 'INNEY SK R I IIT. In February, i886, the Park Congregational Church rented Stevens' Hall, I5 and 17 Grandville avenue, and organized a Sabbath School there, under the superintend 09 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. ence of Forrest M. Priestley, assisted by Miss Anna Locher and Millard Palmer. Sunday evening services were also held here by the Rev. Charles B. Shear, who was employed by the ecclesiastical mother of this enterprise, and for a short time cared faithfully for this mission. His labors were followed by those of Mr. Mead, then a theological student at Olivet College. After a few months of acceptable work, he resumed his admirers of the late pastor, and on the 25th of September, 1887, the corner-stone of the church was laid, the dedication following on the 27th of May, i888. This beautiful brick structure, with an auditorium that seats 500, and which, with the lot, also occupied by a $I,500 parsonage, is worth about Si 0,000, is a fitting monument, and an ornament to the city. The only debt remaining is one of $I,300 onI the parsonage. SM1 ITH Aiil.NIORIA1,x ( Hf*AWCll — -EREI*CT-I) IN 1887. stuldies, and the vacancy was filled by James Galliup, to whose zeal, energy and efficiency the church is greatly indebted. After the lapse of several months, the Rev. EI. F. Golf was secured, in September, i886, as pastor, whose services of one year largely promoted the development and prosperity of the mission. The Rev. H. A. McIntyre succeeded him, October 10o, 887, and is the present Stated Supply. For some time previous it was the cherished purpose of the mother church to build a church home for this rapidly grovingC( congregatioll, and to namle it as above, in loving memory of their late pastor, thle Rev. J. Morgan Smith, who died October i, 1883. In this they were materially assisted by the relatives. friends and The formal organization of this mission as a church took place in September, 1887, with tlirty nine members, to which seventeen have since been added, wlho elected the following officers: Deacons ---Daniel Vanderboegh, L. J. Niel and EI. \V. Miller: Trustees-H. D. Brown, H. E. Locher, H. T. Kniffin, H. Miller, M. Frost, John Van Dommelen (who is also the Clerk), J. Reelman, and F. B3. \Vallin. The Sunday Sclhool, nowv suplerintended 1by Van A. \Vallin, enrolls ISo scholars. A Christian Elndeavor Society, J. Van D)omlmelen, Presildellt, and a Ladies' FHelping Hand Society. Miss Anna Locher, President, are valuable aids in the work of this \'()lng church. The congregation or parish now consists of fift\' CHT'RCFI-ES- SI'1'i~r- M EMOR{IAL-I)ISCII'LES23 293 six Memlbers andi 50 more adherents, aind the annual income of their treasury is about $I yooo. A good share of this revenue is (lerived from the rent of the p~ews, which are free, however, to all wNho are unable to pay for seats. (CHUIRCH- 0OF (41RIST-DISCI PiES. NONIIrWE~ST CORNER OF VNON AND) B1AR~CLAY SIAO':;;. This society was organized inJuy18, Nvith nineteen members. Thle officers then house of worship vacated lby the XWestniinster Presbyterian Church, which stood on the northeast corner of the present post office site, the congregation had the use of the Swedenborgian house until September, 1 887, wN.hen they entered their own. Dr. P-earre bad the p~leasure of witnessing some growth of his charge during his pastorate of a little oxer a year. His successor, the Rev. J. S. Hughes, served hut six months, when a vacancy of nearly a ylear ensuied. - -z (,I I i 1,,c II ta, m,( iwii:r i.-, i887 - chosen wvere: I. J. WVhitfield, T. T). Haighlt and William B'ellamv, Elders; and L. C. Stow," R. J. Stow, S. G. Milner and Milan Hlibbard, D)eacons. For several mionths the infant congfregration met for wvorship at the hiomes,, of members, but early iu 187.5 thle Swvedenborgian Church. corner of L von and North D ivisiou streets. was rentedl. and tile Rev. S. El. P~earre, 1). D)., secured as thleir first pastor. \With tile exceptionlo (U ne year, du1ring. which they' occupied the old brick Early in 1878 the Rev. T. 1). Butler, ot Detroit, began -ilis yecar of successful labor, at the close of which the church was again depend~en-t upon- Visiting pastors or the lay services of its members, chiefly those of Dr. \Whitfield. However,Mi May, i88o, they rejoiced ill the advent of a pastor, the Rev. J. H. Han-mmond, whose four years amiong themi accomplished much for the develop. mi-ieit of tile church. The mlembership) numbered i00 wlheii hie resigned in 1884. 294 I IISTORY OF()' THE CITY OF GRANDI) RAPIDS. In December following the Rev. WV. F. Richardson came as their pastor, and remained until February I, I890. Under his zealous ministry the church has been brought to its now flourishing condition. In the summer of I887 their efforts to have a worthy home of their own were crowned with success, and the dedication of their elegant sanctuary took place September i8, I887. Built in fine modern style, it has an auditorium with 400 seats, and a lecture room, connected by doors, with 200 seats, making the seating capacity 600. Its cost, including the site, was $I I,500, and after furnishing, its value is at least $12,000, upon which there is a debt of $4,000; but as the annual income is about $3,000, and the resident membership now 230, this burden is light. The number of parishoners is about 6oo; the non-resident membership 51. M. H. Sorrick superintends a growing Sunday School of 300 scholars. Besides this the church conducts a mission school of IOO members, in Zion Evangelical Church on \Vest Bridge street, of which Charles WV. Stillwell now has charge, and another on East Leonard street, with forty scholars, under the care of Mrs. Addie Lewis. An Industrial School for Girls, Ladies' Aid, Ladies' Missionary, Young People's Literary, and Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor, contribute to the prosperity of the church. Present Elders-I. J. Whitfield, T. I). Haight and \Villiam Bellamy; Deacons- L. C. Stow, R. J. Stow, N. H. Coleman, S. G. Milner, G. H. Wilmot, D. L. Thomson, J. Hiestand and A. Per Lee. A peculiar feature of this church is its Deaconesses, who are: Mrs. William Bellamy, Mrs. T. D. Haight, and Mrs. L. C. Stow. They care for the sick and the poor, and visit and comfort them in time of need. Trustees —I. J. Whitfield,L.C. Stow, and G. H. \Vilmot; Clerk-C. H. Winchester; Financial Secretary-W. H. Muir; Treasurer ---C. M. Camburn. The present pastor, February i89o, is the Rev. W. J. Russell. ST. MARK'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH. NORTIH D1 ISI(ON, ()P<)SIT'I'I I'FAIt. STREET. The Rt. Rev. Samuel A. McCoskry, the first Bishop of the Diocese of Michigan, who was consecrated Julv 7, 1836, sent David J. Burger to Grand Rapids as a lay reader in Aulgust of that year. Mr. Burger prosecuted his work in the village and vicinity for several weeks, and on Thursday, October 6, I836, pursuant to a call previously circulated, St. Mark's Church of the village and County of Kent, was duly organized. The call referred to bore the signatures of seventeen villagers, as follows: John Almy, S. M. Johnson, George Coggeshall, John P. Calder, Henry P. Bridge, 1). A. Lyman, John Thompson, John Beach, James Thompson, John W. Peirce, Samuel L. Fuller, Adams N. Lothrop, William Annis, James Annis Michael Deemes, G. C. Nelson and C. I. Walker. Mr. Burger presided as chairman of the meeting, and John Almy was chosen Secretary. George Coggeshall and Jefferson Morrison were elected W\ardens; and John Almyl, John Thompson, Charles Shepard, Win. A. Richmond, Simeon M. Johnson, D. A. Lyman, Edward Emerson and Henry P. Bridge. were elected Vestrymen. Mr. Coggeshall was elected Treasurer: Mr. Burger was chosen to represent the newly-formed parish in the convention then to be held in Detroit. Mr. Burger was ordained a Deacon while in Detroit, but did not return here, and the parish languished. Yet the records state that the Bishop visited the parish and conferred the rite of confirmation upon a class of two persons on Sunday, June 17, 1838. This was the first service here of the kind. In July, 1838, a paper was circulated looking to the reorganization of St. Mark's, and fourteen signatures were al)pende(l thereto; but no oflicial action was taken il the premises. Early in November, 1839, the following advertisement appeared in the Grand Rapid s Titnes.' Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the friends of the Protestant Episcopal church, in this town, will be held at the office of Geo. Martin, on Monday, the i8th inst., at two o'clock P. M., for the purpose of the organization of a church, and for the election of Wardens and Vestrymen. The election resulted in the selection of Geo. Coggeshall and Charles I. \Valker for W\ardens, and John Almy, H. R. Osborne, Charles Shepard, F. J. Higginson, J. M. Smith, James M. Nelson and Henry P. Bridge for Vestrymen. The Rev. M. Hoyt was called by the vestry to assume charge of the parish, as its first rector, at a salary of $600 per annum, which for those times was really extravagant, and he entered at once upon the duties o' the position. During the winter of 1839 and 1840, regular services were held in a frame building on the northeast corner of Canal and Bronson streets, in a room given free of rent. In the spring of I840 measures wvere adopted toward the construction of a suitable church edifice. To this end Charles H. Carroll and Lucius Lyon had given a piece of ground on the northwest corner of I)ivision and Bronson streets, and the society enlarged the site by the purchase of the lot adjoining on the west, paying therefor $ I 00oo. The building erected was a frame, twentyseven bL forty-one feet in size, with posts fourteen feet high, at a cost of $8oo; and it furnished seating capacity for 170 persons. Subscriptions from the congregation for building purposes were sometimes paid in mloney, but more frequently in material, labor and store orders. The house was consecrate(l l)y the Bishop on Sunday, April 25, 1841. The chancel was at the north end of the building; while from a little loft over the entrance at the south end, a vocal (quartette, with violin, bass viol and flute accolipaniment, furnished music for tIhe services. There were forty pews, of which about three-fourths were rented, plroducing an annual income, when collected, of S450. The communicants numbered eight. Among the names connected with the parish, in addition to those already mentioned, may be found those of John T. Holmes, Henry R. Williams, T. B. Church, A. Hosford Smith, P. R. L. Peirce, James H. Morse, Charles P. Calkins, E. B. Bostwick, Robert S. Parks, S. 0. Kingsbury, W\m. A. Blackney, Amos Roberts, Aaron Dikeman, I)amon Hatch, Henry Martin. Ezra T. Nelson, Lovell Moore and others. Mr. Hoyt had resigned the rectorship April i, much to the regret of his parishioners, for lie was beloved and popular among them. He is still living, and now rector at Hurlev, Dakota. The financial condition of the church may be inferred from the fact that committees were appointed to solicit subscriptions to pay arrearages of the salaries of pastor and sexton and other obligatior s. In September Dr. Alonzo Platt was chosen to fill a vacancy as vestryman, and April 17, 1843, he was chosen warden together with \Villiam A. Tryon. For a year and a half all efforts to secure a rector were fruitless. The salarv now offered was 3o00. The Rev. M. Schuyler, of Marshall, visited the parish and prepared a class of nine for confirmation at this time, upon whom the Bishop soon after laid hands, which then made the membership thirty in number. A brighter day was dawning, and the Rev. Francis H. Cuming, of St. Andrew's, Ann Arbor, was called May 24, 1843, a salary of $400 promised him, to be paid quarterly in advance, and the expense of transporting lis goods from Jackson or l)etroit to this place. A house had been rented, with five acres of land, for one dollar a week; and the Doctor was advised to bring witll llilm everything he might need. On the first of October, 1843, he entered ti)on this field of labor. W\ithin the first year of the new rectorate it became necessary to increase the seating capacity of the church building'. This was accomplished by adding an extension of twenty feet in length, or, more properly speaking, by cutting the building, in two and inserting a section, which gave a total of sixty pews, with an aggregate rental valule of $79I per annuml. The rapid development of the lower town induced the parish officers to secure a site for church purploses farther south, and two lots on "Prospect Hill" were purchased, which were soon after exchanged for the present site. Early in i847 the Ladies' Sewing Society loaned to the vestry for this purpose S200. which was to be refunded as soon as there was a surplus in the treasury. Mr. E. 13. Bostwick gave a lot on the same terms. The present church building was first occupied in October, 1848. In shape it was a parallelogram, having the same width as now, but in length extending from the front only about twenty feet beyond the transept corners. The corner-stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies in the southwest corner. The formal consecration of the edifice took place September 9, I849. Erastus Hall was the first sexton in this building. For his services in that capacity, and as collector of pew rents, he was paid an annual stipend of $ioo, and was expected to furnish, at his own expense, fuel and lights during his incumbency. The towers were erected in I851, and four years thereafter the building was enlarged by the addition of the choir and transepts, bringing it substantially to its present cruciform plan. The entrances at the front were near )><)() '~96 1~~~IlS1oRY TF iE (LIT OF GRAN I) I1 I'(O N'TAIN AND RANtSONM STREET'S. This organization dates from October 2, I87I, when a meeting was held for this purpose at the residence of Benjamin Geis, at No. i,Bronson street (now Crescent avenue). The seventeen gentlemen who founded the church were the officers first chosen, to-wit: President, Julius Houseman; Vice-Presi (lent, Benjamin Gels; Treasurer, Jacob Barth; Secretary, Jacob I. Levi; Trustees, Moses May, Nathan Rodman and Henry S. Pressburg; and besides these, Jacob Wolf, A. Leavitt, B. Heart, J. Kuppenheimer, I). M. Amberg, Henry Weil, Isaac C. Levi, A. Rodman, S. A. Hart, and H. Kuppenheimer. Their first place of worship was CHURCHES-TEMPLE EMANUEL-HEBREW. 301 Peirce's Concert Hall on Canal street, which was formally dedicated July I9, I872, by the Rev. E. Epstein of Milwaukee, and which they occupied until Sept. i, I875, then removing to Godfrey's Block, second floor, on Ionia street, one door south of.1 of 300, and a debt of only $2,500. Of the 300 Hebrews in this city, about 250 are attached to this congregation, thirty-six of whom are enrolled as members, and forty as Sunday school scholars. In the Sunday school, of which G. A. Berwin is Superintendent, Hebrew is taught, thus educating the entire congregation for its worship, as conducted in Hebrew, German and English. The members are obliged to pay a fixed amount annually, which entitles them to a family seat. Their yearly income ranges from $i,500 to $2,000. The following Rabbis have been their pastors: Revs. W\. Weinstein, from October 13, I872, to i-a- _^ October, I 874; E. Gerech(:* '..* | ter, from Nov. i, 1874, to i;!. C~. FJ [August I, i88o; N. I. Benson, from August i, i88o, to August i, i 88; M. Moses, from August i, I88i, to August i, I882; B. Cohn, from November i, 1882, to August I, i885; N. Rosenau, a' *'. from March i, i186, and still in charge. The present officers are: D. M. Amberg, President; A. S. Davis, Vice - President; Isaac C. /aa' (l Levi, Treasurer; A. M. Amberg, Secretary; Joseph Houseman, B. Allen, Abraham May and J. Wolf, A Trustees. Mrs. Joseph Houseman is the President ~J 1 @H ' ~ of the only society conl| S L nected with the church, viz: The Hebrew Ladies' Benevolent Association. Between Orthodox and Reformed Judaism, this congregation have made choice of the latter, which aims to modernize the creed, ritual and customs of their worship, and claims to be the progressive wing of the Jewish Church of our day. Some fifteen gentlemen and their families, residing mostly on the West Side, however, remain attached to the Orthodox party, and hence have no ecclesiastical fellowship with Temple Emanuel, but secure the services of Orthodox Rabbis to conduct the solemnities of their annual holy I MI'lP: E.IMANUEI.- HI-'il. I IN 1882. Monroe street. In this capacious and neatly furnished hall they grew prosperously and remained unltil August 28, I882, when they entered their beautiful synagogue, whose dedication, according to the ritual, and with other interesting services, made September 15, i882, a most memorable day in their history. This edifice has a seating capacity 302 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. lays, which fall in the months of September and October. GERMAN EVAN(;:IICAI. L.iUIH IRAN CH 'RCH OF) I M MA N U E l.. ("(RNI:R 1 () AST I BRI)'E ANI ) NO)RI'1 I)I\ISl)N NSl 'I.IIS. The founding of this church (lates from March, I856. On the I itl of May their first pastor entered up1)0n his office here, and the church was incorporated Jn, 15, 1856. as ' St. Immanulel's Church," by fifty-two members. The first Trustees were Christian G. Blickle, Christoph Kusterer, Henry Bremer, Jolln Schneider, Christian Kusterer and.Frederick Oesterle. This church,belonging to the Synod of Missouri, adheres to the unaltered Augsbl)rg Confession and all the symbolical books of original Lutheranism; observes monthly communion, tle Church Year, and the 3Ist of October as hleformnation or Luther's Day. The terms of admission are very strict, requiring previous instruction in the parochlial school, and under the personal care of thle pastor, in Bible History, the Confession and Catechisms of the church. In accordance with these views of the necessity of thorough preparation for church mellmbersllip, are their practices. The pastor instructs the entire congregation every Sunday afternoon, except the first of the month, ill the catechism, wihicll takes the place of the Sunday School. The larochial schools of the church provide for a course in Germlan and English, aid all the ordinary studies of those languages, and thorough daily (drill in lil)le History, the Catechism, Scripture recitations and lymllns of the church. Thllis system, so poplular allong the Lutherans, and lbelievedl lby them to l)e indispensable to the welfare of the church, aims to furnish a Christian education, such as our public school system relnders impossible. The officers of the churchl include four Church Wardens, at present Adolph Messerschmidt, Daniel Buehler, Gottlieb Blickle and Albert Schroeder, and five Trustees, now John Sehler,William Herpolsheimer, Henry Fiebig, Charles Stein and Frederick Krekel. These, with the School Board of three members, no-w, Julius Faenger, Julius Friedrich and Robert Bauer, and the pastor, constitute the Church Council, having advisory and executive power, the congregation meeting the first Sunday afternoon of every month for the transaction of business. The building of a small church edifice was begun in September, I857, and finished early in 1858. Henry Bremer and Christoph Kusterer were thle building committee, the plan was designed by Peter R. L. Peirce, and Friedrich Killinger, a member of the chulrcll, was the builder. A transept was added in i872, making its seating capacity 45o, and in the basement a school room for ninety pupils. The numerical growth of the school and tle prosperity of the collgregation have led to the acquisition of valuable property and equipments for their work. The congregation owned until April. i889, three lots onil East Bridge street, corner of North Division, 150 by i8o feet, upon which, besides the church, were a commodious franme building for the residence of the pastor and the principal of the sclhool; also a frame school house on East Bridge street, having two rooms for I6o pupils, and apartments for the teacher. In May, I889, plans first formed in DeceimbeI preceding, and now matured, began to lbe carried out. The house and lot directly south was bought for a parsonage for S5,40oo the old church wras iloved to a temlporary site, loaned gratuitously 1)y NV. G. Herpolsheimer, on Northl Ionia street, in rear of Kusterer's brewer'; the old residence of pastor and teacher was mlioved to the westward of the school house on Iridge street, and work was commenced in J tine on a new brick house of worship, on the old site, to cost about $20,000, and S5,oo000 is to be expended for bell and organ. The stllm of $30,000 was raised to provide for tlis outlay. This property has a value of about $45,ooo. A few years since they purchased three lots, at the corner of Second and Pettibone streets, to establish a mission on the west side, and erected upon this site a two-story brick veneered school house, 40 by 8o feet, whose first floor will accommodate 100 children, and the second is the residence of the teacher. The value of this property is $5,000, one-half of which is paid. I)uring the winter the pastor holds regular services here on the second Sunday evening of every month. The following six pastors have ministered to this people: The Revs. F.W\. Richmann, I856 to i858; WV. Achenbach, 1859 to I863; J. L. Daib, 1863 to i870; A. Crull, I871 to I873; H. Koch, i873 to i884; C. J. T. CHURCHES-GERMAN EVANGELICAI LU THERAN.:03 (I. ',tMAN EVANGE;ICAl. L T"I'iRAN CHtl'RC(H-IIECT(lI) IN 1889. 304 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Frincke, the present able incumbent, since I884. The church llas been weakened, numlerically, twice in its history. First, in 1858, when a numllber of members, holding views inconsistent with the standards of the church, seceded and organized the German Methodist Church on the west side, now on Scribner street. However, several of these returned after a season. Again, in i88o, when the German Church of St. John, on Mt. Vernon street, was organized out of elements dissatisfied with the discipline of this church. Yet the church is strong, as appears from these figures: Number of male voters, 105; of communicants, 650; and of adherents, 1,200. Since its origin, 1,686 children have been baptized and 572 persons confirmed, and it hlas sent out members who have founded churches of this order in Grand Haven, Caledonia and Lisbon. ST. J)OHN'S EVNAN(;LAI. AItIU'IHERIAN ( CH RCH. ()NX MI. VI'INI()N NI"AIR \V':1'' Bi il)(. Si:I:;I'; I'. A party dissatisfied with the discipline of tlhe church of Illmmanulel, German Lutheran, witll which they llad long beell identified, came out of that church and were organized under the above name, J tlne 20, i88o, )by the Rev. F. M leller, whlo became their pastor and served until October i, 1884. This congregation is connected with thle German Evangelical Synod of Nortll Anerica. Prominent among thle leaders of tllis new movement were the present officers, Frederick Schuster, Plmil Rebentisch, Edward Rehentisch, \Willielml Gro,ggel, \Vi. Fritz, Samuel Heruth, Henry Bohne, and also Paul ~Valtz, John Zinzer, Peter Weber, \Vm. Iichternach and Fre(lerick Faulhaber. A house of worship was compn)leted and dedicated in June, i88I. It is a substantial brick edifice surmounted by a spire, seats 400, and cost $Io,oo6, on which there is an indebtedness of $7,00o. The seats were made free, and the revenues of the church are about $1,200 per annum. In I888 a parsonage, costing $2,000, was built on the lot adjoining the house of worship-on the north, No. io Mt. Vernon street. After the first pastor, the Rev. Carl Grauer serve(l them until July, I885, and was followed by the Rev. Louis Bach, fromn October of that year until October, i886. The Rev. Adolph Schmidt was appointed Nov. 28, I886, and( in addition to his ministerial work, taught the church school of twenty pupils, which is held in the basement of the church, five days of the week. The total number connected with the parish is about 400, of whom sixty-five are communicants, and seventyfive are scholars of thle Sunday school, of which Frederick Schuster is Superintendent, while the families more closely attached to tlhe church are about fifty or sixty. The Rev. A. Schmidt resigned in October, I889, and was succeeded Nov. 6 by the Rev. David Greiner, who llas charge of the same classes of work as had his predecessor. S\\:I)ISH F:vANC;LICAL. LUTH'.lERAN CHURH. S(WTHWE II ( S I COIINEI OF ( AU R NI) VALI.L.K.SR IE lKTS. In thle autumn of I871, Carl Nordl)erg, a sea captain, came from New York or Boston to reside here. He forthwith zealoutsly interested himself in the religious welfare of his Swedish countrymen here. He boarded in a Swedish family by the name of Helmpel, and in their dwelling gathered his countrymen for religious services. The fruits of his efforts appeared in the following winter or early spring, when thle ladies of the circle thus drawnx togetller organized a sewing society, xwhich still exists, to raise funds for missionary work among the Swedes of this city. Soon after, different ministers of the Evangelical Lutheran AuguLstiniall Synod of America, residting at Chicago and elsewhere, were induced to visit them for this purpose two or three timles a year. During one of these missionary visits by tlhe Rev. P. Erikson, of Chicago, and( under his direction, on the 25th of April, I873, sixteen members organized and were incorporated under above name. J. Newberg was elected Chairman of the society, and C. Hakenson, Secretary, each for one year. The next day they purchased tlhe site of thle old church on Sinclair street for $500, the first payment of $50 being made by the sewing society, and a committee was appointed to solicit for a building fund. A constitution was adopted anld signed by five gentlemen, to wit: John Newberg, Chas. Hakenson, Emil Kilstrom, A. J. Anderson, and C. J. Lindberg. In January, 1874, they secured thle services of the Rev. N. A. Yongberg, pastor of the churches at Whitehall and Lisbon, for one day every other week, at a salary of $150 per annutm, and it CHURCHES-SWEDISH EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN-SWEDISH MISSIONARY. 305 1 of the church at Sparta, was secured at a salary of $300, giving to this church half his time. In the fall of 1884 their pastor moved to this city to devote his chief attention to this church. Accordingly the congregation raised his salary to $400, and the Conference for one )ear granted missionary aid in the sum of S250. Mr. Hult resigned in the aututmn of I885, and was succeeded by the Rev. J. A. Norlin, who commenced labor here in July, i886, and is still in charge. In i888 the church had an income of about $900, of which I $125 was devoted to benevolence. The 250 sittings of the old church were free. The communicants are ninety in number, and the total number of parishioners one hundred and forty. The Sunday school has forty scholars, of which J. A. Wennerstrom is Superintendent. The officers are: the pastor, Chairman; Emil Kilstrom, Treasurer; J ohn Newberg, Secretary. In June, 1889, the initiatory " step toward a change of location was take-n, by the purchase of a new site at the corner of Court and Valley streets, upon which the building of a sl church was begun in July. ' The corner- stone was laid according to their ritual, and with appropriate addresses, August 25. This is a brick veneered building, 40 by 70..-::- feet, with a basement, adorned _ _._._. with a spire ninety-five feet in height, which contains a bell. It will seat 600, and cost about $6, ooo, making the property worth about $8,ooo. Have' ing worshiped in the old home until the new was completed, the congregation entered the latter December 22, I889. SW\KD)ISH,KVAN(;ELICAI. MISSIONARY CON(RE1 -(;ATI 0N. NO. 43 BROAI)WAY, O(I''T(SlIlE F-ItST SlIRISITI'. Thllis congregation is composed of Danes and Swedes, who for a considerable time held religious meetings in the basement of S\\'l:.ll ll:\AN(; I.I'( AI. 1. I lRAl.\N ---l'lll.l I\ 188t was resolved that thle meetings, before held in private residences, should be held in the German Lutheran Church at the corner of East I3ridge and I)ivision streets, they paying a rent of $2 for every meeting held therein. Tllis Illovelllent proved so satisfactor' that the society resolved on Septemll)er 7tll of same Nyear to erect a churcll edifice. 36 feet by 6o, 20 feet high. Its cost was $3, 50oo. In i88o the Rev. A. Hult, pastor 30()6 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. the First Presbyterian Church on Scribner street. An organization was founded June 12, i88o, which belongs to the Lutheran body known as The Swedish Evangelical Mission Confederation of America. In the year i883 their church edifice was erected, which is a small, plain, frame structure, but well adapted to their needs. It has seats for 300 worshipers, and cost $2,000. With the grounds attached it is worth $3,000. This sanctuary was dedicated November 2, i883. The membership is I io, and the number of scholars in the Sunday School, of which C. J. Lundgren is superintendent, is forty. Its first pastor, the Rev. F. A. Staberg, closed his labors among them May I, 1889, after which the church was supplied by their own local preacher, J. W. Swansen, until October i, when the Rev. Claus Nyren was engaged as supply until another pastor shall assume charge. J. Rose is President, and John Tournell, Clerk, of the Board of Trustees. The annual contributions of the church for all purposes are about $,5oo0. FREF METHODIST CHURCH. IN HALL OVER 39 \\EST IIRIl)(;E Sl'RlE''. The first class of this church was organized in the winter of i886, and in October, i888, was incorporated, after the election of a Board of Trustees. They remain without property and without a resident pastor, having been supplied by some minister of the rural charges with which they have been connected. At first they were so combined with the church at Sparta, in this county, and the Rev. E. WV. Chapman held service here in a private residence on the corner of Frenmont and Seventh streets. The following year the Rev. H. D. F. Gaffin, also of Sparta, supplied the congregation, then worshiping in a hall at 331 West Bridge street. In the fall of I887 they were connected with the Sand Creek charge, and receiving the ministrations of the Rev. E. Thirkettli, a local deacon. Soon afterward they removed to No. 55 West Bridge street, and held their meetings in Mack's photograph gallery, and later to their present place of worship, No. 39 West Bridge street. The Rev. E. Thirkettle continues to supply them, preaching every Sunday morning, and attending the rest of the day to his other appointments. Their former pastor, the Rev. H. D. F. Gaffin, now Presiding Elder, residing at Coopersville, retains a deep interest in this work and aids it by his counsel and frequent visits. He also conducts their quarterly meetings. With all their drawbacks they have made the gratifying progress shown by a membership of about thirty, a congregation of about eighty, and an average attendance at their Sunday School of twenty-five. In addition to Sunday services under the leadership of their pastor, Sunday evening and week-day prayer meetings are held at the residences of members. The church is officered as follows: Mrs. James Frederick, Sunday School Superintendent; T. F. Easton, Ira Thompson, David Carlisle, Talbot Owen, John Sharrets, James Frederick and S. B. Shaw, Trustees. \VESIEVAN IF'HOI)IST CHURCtH. N(IR'I HIIAST CO(RN\'R )1' 'I'URN R AND (CRI SBY S'T'I'I KT.S. A Band of Hope, organized in April, 1873, for Sunday School work, under the auspices of the denomination of above -name, was the origin and germ of this church. The Rev. Harry R. Stevens, then pastor of the '"Walker Circulit of the Michigan Conference of the Wesleyan Methodist Connection of America," accompanied by Horace Austin, a local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal Church, made this beginning. In November following a small building, (designed for a Sunday School room, was erected on their present site, bt)t upon its completion the original movers were encouraged to organize a church, which took place November 29, 1873, and it was called the "First Wesleyan Methodist Church of Grand Rapids City." The articles of Association were signed by H. R. Stevens, Otis Smith, Lewis C. Hudson, Van N. Miller, Horace Austin, Daniel Hahnes. On the 15th of the succeeding month the five last named were chosen to constitute a Board of Trustees, when the more formal organization was effected, with the Rev. H. IR. Stevens as pastor, who remained until the autumn of i875. His successors have been: The Revs. J. B. Selleck, from the fall of I875 until the spring of I876, " home supply" until the fall of the latter year; Obed Tapley, from I876 to 1878; H. II. Bement, I878 to i88o; C. L. Preston, I88o to I881; William Wing, i88I to I883; R. H. Ross, I883 to 1884; O. S. Grinnell, i884 to I885, six months, and S. I). Shaw six months; B. C. Robbins, I885 to I887, and the Rev. C. L. Preston since I887. H t II(RCHES —\VESLEYAN M}ETHODIST-DIVISION STREET M. E. 307 At the beginning of 1874 revival meetings were held, which resulted in eighty conversions and so large an accession of members that a church edifice was built, which was dedicated in the autumn of that year, the Rev. Adam C(rooks, of Syracuse. N. Y., officiating,. The new house of worship was a bulil(ling of 30 I)y 44 feet, to which the original Sunday School room of 18 by 26 feet was attached, and has since served as a parlor an(l for prayer and class meeting purposes, and can be throw open open so as to increase thle seats to the number of 230. This property is now estillated at $2,000. Joined to the rear of the church, but facing Crosby stieet, is a parsonage worth, with the site, $i,ooo. The church has enjoyed frequent revivals. Its membership is reported at about 150. The Sunday School, of which J. WV. Sherwood has for several years been superintendent, has seventy-five scholars. The amount annually raised, under the free seat system, is Soo. For tlhree years past this church has been united with one in the town of Walker, 2 ', miles out, forming one charge, and the p)astor preaches at each twice a week. A considerable proportion of the men!mbers of the city church reside in the country. IiVISION SI'R'.T' M. \. l. tt iC}I. SlI'I)II ('~IAS I (.\ l: l IIS\I(N ANI) IM NTAIN S RF:I'lIs. The history of this church is the history of early Methodism in this city. It was the pioneer mission, and has been the fruitful ilother of several now full-grown and strong churches. In August, I835, the Ohio Conference, wlhich then embraced the Ann Arbor District, resolved to enter this field, and formed thle ''Grand River Mission,' extending nearly the entire length of the river. Tlie Rev. Osbond Monett was placed in charge, and thle Rev. Henry Colclazer was made its Presiding El1der. Mr. Monett's preaching stations were Portland, Ionia, Grand Rapids, Grandville and Grand Haven. He rode his circuit around once in four weeks, and held services in the primitive log cabins of the settlers, then "few and tar between.'' Eastern people settled here in great number. and among them were a few (levout and stanch Methodists, whose arrival was the signal for organized work in the growing town. Accordingly in the winter of 1835-36 Mr. Monett founded the first M. E~. church here. constituted by the following six members: Mehetable Stone, Win. C. Davidson, Diantha Davidson, Knowlton S. Pettibone, Mrs. K. S. Pettibone and Mrs. Eliphalet H. Turner. Their meetings were held in the upper part of Henry Stone's house on the west side of Kent street, between Bridge and Bronson streets. This is, therefore, the oldest English speaking Protestant organization here. In I836 the Michigan Conference was created, and at its first sessiQln, in Detroit, the Rev. Frederick A. Seaborne was appointed missionary to this charge, but one year later was expelled. He was succeeded in I837 by the Rev. Orrin Mitchell, whose Presiding Elder, S. P. Shaw, had charge of the 'Flint River District," then created, which embraced Grand River Valley as far west as Grandville. To innumerable hardships and privations of his itinerant life was added the loss of his horse, and during the remainder of the year Mr. Mitchell gained an extensive experience as a pedestrian on his large circuit. His successor was the Rev. James H. Freese, appointed in I838, and during his term, in May following, the first Quarterly Conference was held at Grandville, attended by the Rev. E. H. Pilcher, P. E., the missionary, and James Ewing, class leader. Knowlton S. Pettibone, Moses H. Russell and Thomas Buxton were then appointed stewards of the Grand Rapids church. In I839 two missionaries were sent, Ransorm R. Richards and Allen Staples, and during their stay the first reported revival occurred in this field and added many to the membership, reported as fifty-five in Septetnber, I838. The first trustees recorded in 1839 were \Vm. C. Davidson, Jas. Ewing, K. S. Pettibone, Robert I. Shoemaker and Harry D)ean. In I84o we find among the stewards tle new names of Joseph Brown, Wesley Fallass, H. I. Judson, Cabel Page, Lewis M. Pike ("exhorter''), Thomas H. Castle, Ira H. Maxfield, and Alex. Deane. The preachers sent in September, I840, were Elliott M. Crippen and Daniel Bush. At this time the use of the Court House on the Public Square was secured for services, which made Grand Rapids headquarters for the mission and added the privilege of regular Sunday services, nineteen preachers in all serving within the bounds of the mission. As there were no churches and only three school houses to be had, ordinary meetings were held in private houses, but barns were 308 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRANI) RAPIDS resorted to for the accommodation of the crowds eager to enjoy the spiritual feast of the quarterly meetings. Mr. Bush's labors and trying journeys through trackless forests, or along trails indicated commonly by blazed trees, through streams forded or ferried, or carried over by his swimming horse, were in that year sweetened by the receipt of $20, all told, 'wild-cat" money, which he was happy to sell for 25 cents on the dollar. The Methodists, in 1841, bought the present site of the Division street church, of Thomas Smith of New York, for $200, paying one-half in cash, and giving a mortgage on the lot for the balance. Next, steps were taken to build a suitable "meetinghouse," which for want of funds was not completed that year. However, a detailed statement of the finances of the church was made June 25, I842, at the quarterly meeting, showing a total of $840 subscribed for the building, of which $463 had then been expended, and $310 uncollected was considered good. Certainly they did nobly for one year, for the additional sum of $186.49 was raised that year and divided between Presiding Elder Jas. F. Davidson and the two missionaries, as follows: to the first, $24; to the second, $43.57; and to the third, on account of his larger family, $118.92. The rule at this time was to allow for the preacher $ioo, for his wife the same, and for young children $i6 each. In August the returned Presiding Elder l)roulght with him as circuit preacher the Rev. Franklin Gage, a muscular as well as spiritual laborer. He gave careful attention to his pastoral duties, and also devoted much time and manual labor to the completion of the house of worship, whose dedication he was privileged to witness in June, I843, though without the comfort of church seats as yet secured. The ceremonies were conducted by the Rev. James V. Watson, a man of ability then residing here in superannuated relation on account of ill health. From 1840 to this date we find among the officers the new names of Anthony Yerkes, "exhorter"' Thomas Stocking and Dudley Newton, stewards; Josepl Escott, class leader, and a little later, Matthew Van Amburg, steward, with Milo White, Horatio Brooks, Samuel B. Ball, Henry G. Stone and P. Mulford, stewards, chosen Nov. i i, 1843, and a corresponding accession of members. The Conference in 1843 sent Mr. Gage again, and also the Rev. D. XVhitlock, with Larmon Chatfield as Presiding Elder. In January, 1844, the quarterly meeting held at Grandville estimated the sum required for the year's support of their ministers at $476, and made an assessment upon the several classes of this place and vicinity, but the receipts were not reported. Two accessions, worthy of special mention, reinforced the organization in I843 and 1844. In I843 Gaius S. Deane, and in May, i844, Luman R. Atwater, came with their families from the village of Lyons, where they had been pioneer Methodists since June, T837. The former was, on January i, 1845, made a steward, and ever after until his noble life was closed, March 23, 1883, served as an official member. Mr. Atwater was, soon after his arrival, elected to the superintendency of the Sunday School, in which he was uninterruptedly continued by vote of the people for a quarter of a century. In June of that year, the i5th, Seth Reed, a young member of some class in the circuit, was licensed to preach. The year I844 was full of interesting developments, among them the displacement of the wooden benches-used from the day of dedication until that summer. Only by a strong presentation of the financial needs of the treasury and the prospect of great relief to a few of the brethren, who had borne an excessive share of the )burden, did the Board carry the day in favor of the rental system. The experiment of one year was remarkably successful, $676 having been raised for current expenses and a neat sunm also to pay in part for the new pews. In September, the salary of the preacher, then the Rev. Andrew M. Fitch, was fixed at $350, and for the first time in the annals of the organization the minister was paid in full. He was also provided with a parsonage, a house rented for the purpose on the east side of Kent street, between Bridge and Bronson streets, and the further allowance of $ioo for table expenses ' Such rapid and great strides had been taken by the mission as to beget the conviction that it ought now to become a "station" and self-supporting, which was effected Nov. 8, 1844, at a quarterly meeting held in the church, and the following Board of Stewards was chosen: Charles P. Babcock, Wm. C. Davidson, James Ewing, Samuel B. Ball, Henry G. Stone, and CHIRCHES —I)IVISION STREET M. E. Horatio Brooks; also trustees, Ball, Babcock, D. D. Van Allen, G. S. Deane, Davidson, Stone and Harry Dean. The name then adopted was 'First M. E. Church of Grand Rapids." The strength of the Sunday school was then forty scholars and eight teachers. The painting of the church was attended to in the summer of 1845. Both the Presiding Elder and minister were returned in the fall of 1845, and the district, before Shiawassee, took the name of Grand Rapids. Among the stewards of the board then chosen, we for the first time meet the names of Joel Ranney, A. C. W\estlake and L. R. Atwater, who was made recording steward, and then began that accurate work which led the Quarterly Conference of his church, December 22, 1882, to elect him to the new office of church historian. The mortgage on the lot remained unpaid, and on March 26, 1846, both church and ground were sold under the hammer of Sheriff C. P. Babcock. But, if Mr. Atwater was to record history, he was there also to make history, and give a delightful turn to a disagreeable affair, for he purchased the prop)erty and deeded it to the trustees. In I846 Mr. Chatfield returned as Presidling Elder, and the Rev. Jacob E. Parker was placed in charge of the station, remaining but one year. It may have been fortunate for him alnd his people that he was single, for the treasury was so low that two brethren offered their services as sexton free of charge, each for one year, in which position they afterward often supplied fuel from their own wood piles, carrying it to the church on Saturday evening The Rev. James Shaw came in the fall of 1847 as Presiding Elder, and Myron B. Camnburn as pastor-a single and tunordained man. A "protracted meeting' was held that winter under the Rev. W\. F. Cowles as leader, which resulted in seventy professed conversions, forty of whom united with this church. In August, I848, the ladies made the purchase of a parsonage lot, on the northwest corner of Fountain and Bostwick streets, for $100ioo. We pass on to the conference appointment of Geo. Bradley, Presiding Elder, and Reuben Reynolds as their minister in I848. In September, i849, Jamcs Summerfield, a single and unordained preacher of Irish birth, took charge, under the former Presiding Elder. His successor, in i850, was the Rev. Francis A. Blades, David Burns Presiding Elder. The pastor's salary was fixed at $364, and a house, rented at $90. Mr. Blades was very popular, and so successful that in the summer of I85I au addition of sixteen feet was built on the front of the house, making the seating capacity 225. There was also a gallery or choir loft, from which G. S. Deane, chorister, Miss Ellen L. Deane with melodeon, John Simonds, bass viol, Mrs. G. S. Deane, Mr. and Mrs. L. R. Atwater, Mrs. S. B. Ball and Mrs. S. R. Sanford, discoulrsed music, in which they were heartily joined by the voices of the congregation. Their pastor's term expired by the limitation then fixed by the General Conference at two years, and he was succeeded by the Rev. Andrew J. Eldredformer Presiding Elder continiuing ---under whose ministry there was a great awakening, ninety-four professing conversion. After the regular probationary period fifty-seven of them were admitted as members. The necessity of building a parsonage was considered by the trustees in March, i853, when it was decided to erect one of brick, two stories high, 25 by 32 feet in size, on the lot purchased by the ladies, and Mr. Atwater was appointed as the I3Building Committee. The work was commencedl J uly 6, 1853, and when the frame was enclosed both autttumln and the funds were at an end. The ministers of the year stucceeded themselves in September. The report at the close of the fiscal year, September, 1853, mentions $52 expenl(ed for a sexton and S7 for fuel, indicating a growing appreciation of such important services. In 1854 there was- a chance of Presiding Elder and pastor; the Elder now sent was the Rev. Henry Penfield: pastor, the Rev. Resin Sapp. The latter was an able minister, llighly acceptable to his parishioners, and continllued to render faithful service for two years. As the manse was not completed, the parson and his family were boarded until the last of I)ecember, when they enjoyed a llid-winterremoval to a residence provided. The regular expenditures of that year were 8653.50, and there is an item of $23 for "melodeon-llusic." At the Quarterly Conference of June 30, I855, L. R. Atwater's resolution was ulnanimoullsly adopted, reading thus: Resolved, That a second M. E. church be organized on the west side of the river, and that the next t I() HISO1 '()IRY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Conference appoint a preacher to the charge, if in the opinion of the Presiding Elder a suitable man can be had for the place. There had been Methodists on the West Side several years, and in 1853 pastor Eldred began holding service there, when three classes were formed and a Sunday school was organized. These llad grown so that the mother church lost a considerable number of her members, who were dismissed to form the "\West Charge." Mr. Sapp's second year was prosperous, thirty-six persons joining during his term. The Rev. Jeremy Boynton followed him in October, I856, receiving the average stipend of $415, and at the end of the year gave place to the Rev. Henry Morgan, now superannuated and residing here. The years 1856, I857 and 858 were a period of decline. In i86o the church was bereft of its Presiding Elder, John K. Gillett, who died of hemorrhage of the lungs, at the parsonage, June 27. He received his appointment Sept. 4, I859. At that Conference the Rev. Myron A. Daugherty was appointed pastor. He was a preacher of extraordinary talent, courage and force. When he returned for a second year, the appreciation of his congregation was evinced by raising his salary to $8od, and the uise of the parsonage. In i86I, Oct. 17, Presiding Elder M. B. Camburn, their pastor in i847, died here after one year of service in his new relation, beloved and honored as a devoted Christian minister. The second year of Mr. Daugherty's pastorate was prosperous, and at its close the officers adopted resolutions expressing the esteem in which all the congregation held him. The l)arish had now grown to such proportion and importance as to invite the Annual Conference to accept their hospitalities in i862, which was (done. In October, 186I, the Rev. Harrison Morgan was sent to the district as Presiding ElIder, and the Rev. I). R. Latham to this charge as pastor. The Annulal Conference convened here in October, 1862, Bishop Levi Scott presiding, and the Rev. Wm. Rork was appointed to this charge. He was succeeded in 1863 by the Rev. J. W. Robinson. He had just served two years in the Second street church of the city. His salary was $700 per annum during the next two years. This brings us to the Conference season of i865, when the Rev. Israel Cogshall was commissioned Presiding Elder, and for four years made himself felt throtughout his district as a power for good. The pastor then appointed was the Rev. Joseph Jennings, who came to llis task in broken health and much sulffering, so that he could endure the strain but one year, and in 1867, May 23, departed this life. There followed him in September, i866, the Rev. Andrew J. Eldred, an old friend of 1852 -53, and they voted him $, 200 for the first year. His work told in the increase of membership, for in March fifty Sunday school scholars were reported as converts, and the total gain of the year was 129, and notwithstanding the unprecedented outlay of $2,300, there was a balance of S25o in the treasulry at the expiration of the year. This numerical growth and financial prosperity suggested the building of the present churcll edifice. During that winter of i866 —67 Julius Berkev, 0. 1R. Wilmartll and T. Tradewell visited several towns to ol)tain a suitable plan. and recommended one of an edifice to cost $6o0,ooo. This was endorsed, and, subscriptions having warranted it, early in the summer of I867 tlhe old church was moved to a lot in thle rear and used until the new structure was ready to shelter them. Before winter tile foundation and floor timblers were in place. Work upon the walls commenced early in tle spring of 1868. Presiding Elder Cogshall laid the corner-stone May i6, i868. On thle last day of i868 the Sunday School lheld a farewell meeting in their meeting-lhouse, an( on New Year's Day, I869, thle congregation went "otut of the old house into the new," the basement l)eing then ready for occiupancy, and the formal opening occutrred( June 23, 1869, Bishop Ei. R. Ames officiating. In September thle Annual Conference assembled in these rooms. In order to realize on their parsonage for aid in l)llilding, tlie brick manse was sold in i86o for $3,30o and a house in the rear of tlhe church was purchased for S2,500 o01 ten years time at ten per cent. The first occupant of the new pulpit, who came in the fall of i869. was the Rev. George I13. Jocelyn, I). D.. who for the five preceding years had been President of Albion College. to whichl office he returned after a two years' pastorate here, serving in that important position until his death, January 27, 1877. The Doctor was a man of unusual scholarship and cul CHCUCITES- DIVISION STREET NIE"JAR)DIST 11,11,111-i'COPAI,: It ture, a fine orator, and an earnest winner of souls. The congregation, to complete the auditorium, issued bonds bearing io per cent. interest, July 1, i869, to the amount of 10io,ooo, which were readily taken, and tils work was resumed, so that in I870, June 20, the dedication took place, with the UIev. Thonmas M. Eddy, D. D., as preacher for the occasion, and a very liberal response was llade to the usual Methodist appeal at sutch a time. On the 22d of August a S3,00o organ was placed in position. In the fall of I871 the Rev. Henry F. Spencer became their pastor, who served efficiently for two and a half years, when his health failed. The Rev. Resin Sapp was appointed to the office of Presiding ldl1ler in 1872, llbut died here May 5, I873. In Septembler, 1874, tile Rev. I). F. Barnes b)eing Presiding Ellder. the Rev. Thompson F. - il(dretll was assigned to the work and spent three years with this church. He was an attractive speaker, an exceedingly l)usy man, and an ardent temperance champion. 'lThe next Conference, which convened in this church in September, i877, Bishop S. M Merrill presiillng, apl)ointed the Rev. I). F. Barnes to this charge. Mr. Barnes carefully watched the interests of his flock, and by his rare business tact and ability proved a wise helper (lduring his two years. -lie was stlccee(led by the Rev. A. A. Knappel whlo serve(l one year, when the Rev. Isaac Crook, D. 1).. was appointed, and \T. J. Aldrich was Presiding Elder. A resolution was adopted by the Quarterly Conference lleld April 12, i88o, declarintg it advisable to organize whlat is now tlhe Ames I.. Chulrch, on South Division street. In September, I88o, the church sectired the Rev. Isaac Crook, D. D., as pastor, and made an attempt to cast off the bondage of debt. Success crowned their efforts, not only tlle bonded debt being canceled, but an additional sum of 5,0ooo was raised for improvemlents, chief of which was the steam heating apparatuls. The Rev. Henry M. Joy, D). I)., entered upon the Presiding Eld(ership of the district in I88i. No one residing here in October, i882, could easily forget the excitement and sensation caused by tile revival services of "the boy preacher," the Rev. Thomas Harrison. From i883 to i885 the Rev. J. E. Gilbert was pastor, and in I885 the Annual Confer ence was held here for the third time. The Rev. J. I. Buell was made Presiding Elder and the Rev. John Graham pastor of this church. The removal of the old meeting-house, now an annex of (ill & Greenley's livery stables, took place in 1869, when the late James Kennedy bought it of the society for g350. Several years ago the old frame parsonage was also sold, and was taken to the north side of Fountain street, between Bostwick and Ransom. Of the original six members, Mrs. Diantlla Davidson, widow of Wm. C. Davidson, who died in i888, is the only survivor, and lives in her ripe old age on her farm near Grandville, on the north side of the river. Of the later members, who joined from I838 to 1843, H. G. Stone-and his wife, who came in by letter from the First Reformed Church in I846-Mrs. G. S. Deane and L. R. Atwater alone remain. The present membership is 526, and the Stunday School reports 360 "scholars of all ages.'' The parish is large, comprising some 1,200 persons. The value of the church property is estimnated at $55,ooo, but no parsonage is now owned by the congregation. The expenditures of the last conference year were $i,850 for current expenses, and $2,935 for pastor, Presiding Elder and Bishop, besides which $966 was contributed for various missionary putrposes and $534 for sundry benevolent objects, making a total of $6,285 for tlhe year. About $800 are paid annually for music by the choir, of which Prof. G. C. Shepard was the leader for i889. A large slhare of the annual revenues is derived from pew rentals, that system appearing to have remained popular from the first placing of comfortable seats in the old house of worship, and there is no indebtedness to provide for. The following are the present officers: Board of Trustees-L. R. Atwater, President; \V. G. Robinson, Secretary; Harvey Joslin, Julius Berkey, James Lowe, A. R. Antisdel, A. M. Apted, J. C. More, and 0. R. Wilmarth. Stewards-J. B. Ware, Chairman; C. C. Wilmot, Secretary; E. G. Studley, W'. G( Beckwith, L. F. Owen, \V. F. Parish, F. E. Tuttle, J. W. Adams, E. -f. Stafford, J. C. Rickenbaugh, A. E. Yerex, and Elvin Swarthout, who is also the Sunday School superintendent. 312 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPI1)DS. SECOND STREET M. E. CHURCH. NORTHWFST CORNER OF SECOND AND) rt'F NER STREE TS. Introductory to the history of the First Presbyterian Church mention is made of the services of the Rev. Dr. Penney and of the place where they were rendered. This house had been built by stock subscriptions and was controlled by trustees chosen by stockholders. On Dr. Penney's removal from Grand Rapids, the majority of the stockholders gave him their shares in part payment for his services to the society, which secured to him the controlling interest. Leaving his affairs in the hands of his son, Joseph Penney, it was offered for sale.. A Methodist succeeded in btuying out Penney's interest for 50o, and havingl unofficially proposed this, as an agent, trustees were appointed, who received that amount in subscriptions and accepted the property in trust for a West Side Methodist Church. For this movement everything was mature, many members of the Division Street M. E. Church residing in this vicinity, and a Methedist Episcopal Sunday School and Sunday afternoon preaching services had for some two years been held in that vacant building; three classes had also been formed there in 1853. All former stockholders consented to the transfer and released their claims. The next important measure is recorded in the account given of the action of the Division Street Church which, in I855, June 3o, recommended this new organization. Mrs. Eliphalet H. Turner is regarded as its first member, bult, though the record was burned in i86o, it appears that the following names should be classed with hers, as they occur in the record of the first quarterly meeting held for the "West Charge," November io, 1855: A. B. Bidwell and Jonathan Cook, class-leaders; John D. WVinterburn, local deacon; Baker Borden, Henry G. Stone, Frederick Rice, William Green, Jonathan Blair, W\arren H. Congdon and Edward Roberts, then elected stewards. Moses DeLong and Elijah Foote were then also class-leaders. but not at this meeting. \Villiam C. Davidson and Joseph Cook were also members at that time. Henry G. Stone, now a member again of the parent church, was chosen Recording Steward. The Rev. Amos Wakefield was appointed late in the fall of i855 as their first pastor. having also an appointment in Tallmadge and one in Walker, and B. Borden was then superin tendent of the Sunday School The Sunday School scholars of the three appointments aggregated 126 in September, i856, and there were reported eighty members, ten probationers, three local preachers, an(l the church building valued at $600. Later pastors were J. R. Savage, I856-57; Isaac Bennett, 1857-58; R. Pengelly, i858 —6o; J. T. Robe, i86o-. 6i; J. W\. Robinson, i86 ---63; S. Steele, 1863 64: A. J. Van Wyck, part of 1864-65, L. \V. Earl remainder of that year and i865 66; J. H. Ross, 1866 68; W\. J. Aldrich, I868-71:; 1. IH. Pearce 1871-73; A. P. Moors, 1873-74; Geo. D. Lee, I874 —75; 1). Engle, 1875-78; J. W. Robinson, 1878 8o; Charles S. Fox. I880-83; J. W. Miller, 1883-86, J. A. Spragule, I886-89; J.. Iei(d, 1889 and now in charge. During Mr. Pengelly's pastorate the charge took the name of " 3ridge Street," and on April 3, 1862, the Board of Trustees was organized und(er the corporate title of 'Second M. E. Church,," etc., with tile following members: Sebra Rathbun, \Win. A. Berkey, Baker IBorden, \Vm. Harrison, George R. Congdon, Hughll McCullochl, George G. Graves, P. F. Covell and \Nm. Dunnett. Under tile management of thle Rev. W\. J. Aldrich, in I871, tlie present parsonage, corner of Turner andl Third streets, was secured, now value(d at $3,000,ooo though grounds for this and the chlurcl llhad been bought before, an(i the bulild(ing of thle house of worship was also biegun in 1871. The church had for somne years owned a small parsonage onil the southeast corner of WVest Bridge and Mt. Vernon streets. The old house of worship was bought by thle Grand Rapids Stave Conmpany for storage and moved to the west side of Front street, near Butterworth avenlue, l)ut was destroyed by fire soime ten or more years since. For want of funds, only tlie basement coull( be complleted for occupancy; accordingly it was dedicated March 10, 1872, with a debt of $5,ooo. At tllis time, owing to thle location, the present uname was assutmed. In 1887 tlie debt was paid an(d the atuditoriutmll coIlpleted and de(dicate(d. It hlas a seating capacity of 700. The clhurch has an income of about $2,500 per annulm, and property valuted at $47,000; hence it is in condition to do mission work. Its first undertaking of the kind was in I887, when the,Joy Memorial" Mission was established in CHI'R('HFS —SECOND STREET AND EAST STREET NI. E. 31: Lawton& Pomeroy's Hall, on the southwest corner of Fulton and Jefferson streets. This was so named in memory of the late Presiding Elder Joy of this district. It now enrolls 120 scholars. In i888 the trustees l)ought a lot on \'Vest Broadway, between Jefferson and Watson streets, as a site for a $2,500 house of worship, which was dedicated September i, I889. The following trustees had this project in charge: James E. Furman, M. J. Ulrich, A. M. Apted, B. W. Barnard and Luke Palmer. On Fremont street, corner of Fourthl, a mission was founded early in I889, and later transferred to Third street, near "Lane Avenue," which name it now bears. It enrolls 102 scholars, and( a lictle later in the year, "Myrtle Street"'' Mission, corner of \Vebster and Turner, having now ninetyeight scholars. Chapels for the last two missions were built in r889(. and dedicated September i. 'The sumlll of $3,500 was expended in the erection of the three mission chapels. The widow of the Rev. Henry M. Joy. D. D., started th, first building project with her offering of $250, and the other two were undertaken on the offer of \Villiam Harrison to pay one-half the cost. provided the lots were paid for. John Widdicomb became responsible for one-llalf of one chapel, and the balance was raised by ordinary methods. The statistical report of the church is: 423 members, 376 Sulnday School Scholars of all ages, and adherents of the church and its missions, about 2,600. Both the free seat and rental systems are in operation, about $S,ooo b'ing the revenue from pew rents. The Board of Trustees is composed of William Harrison, Baker 13orden, Jonathan Best, Albert Coye, John \Viddicomb, James D. Robinson, D. C. Di Pee and G. H. Bean. Stewards-WVm. Harrison, Baker Borden, Win. R. Fox, A. A. Smith, A. French, Charles Spencer, M. J. Ulrich, Herbert Whitwortlh, John Campbell, M. B. Armstrong, James E. Furman, George S. Gibson, and Martin Gilbertson. Societies: Ladies' Aid, President, Miss Mary Watson: \Voman's Foreign Mission, President, Mrs. Mary Goodwill: Children's Mission Band, President, May Stone; Young Men's Band, President, Ora F. Billlman; Young People's Methodist Alliance, President, Herbert Whitworth; Sunday School Missionary Society, President, Mrs. J. Campbell. Sun27 day School Superintendent, George S. Gibson, who, with John Whitworth, is a class-leader, Gardner Phillips serving in that office for the "Joy Memorial" class.:AST STREET'' M.:. CHl'RCH..AST S'I'K'EEl, NEARK I.AK1 ' A 'VF '. Members of the Division Street Church, residing in this neighborhood, held prayer meetings as early as 1872 at the residence of Peter Yokom, on Cherry street. In 1874 the Quarterly Conference of the parent church appointed Trustees Jan. 19. This new Board met January 22, 1874, at the residence of Charles Barclay; present: Peter Yokom, President; Chas. B. Foster, Secretary' Chlas. Barclay, Treasurer; Paul H. Richens and Jas. B. Gulliford (Chas. W. Hurd and Levi S. IBoynton, also Trustees, not attending); also the Rev. D. F. Barnes, Presiding Elder. At the next meeting, Feb. 24, a Btilding Committee was appointed to erect a clapel 22 by 30 feet, I6 feet high, upon lots previously bought of Artina Bradford. Building was begun without delay, and ere great progress was made the advice of the Presiding Elder to enlarge the plan to 30 by 40 feet was adopted, and Peter S. Foote atuthorized to take charge of this work. With fond anticipation all looked for its completion early in thle sutmmer, but on the 12tl of May a violent windstormn leveled the structure, jlst ready for plastering, to the ground. Two days after, the Trustees planned a building of 30 by 50 feet, to cost $3,500, after recovering everythling possible from thle ruins. On June 16, however. tlhe debt already incurred and a decline of interest, suggested a return to tht first plan of 20 by 30 feet, which was adopted Sept. 5. and( the contract was let to C. 13B. Foster, Sept. 28. On the i5th of October, their first t)astor, the Rev. H. J. Van Fossen, arrived, and work on the chapel was begun. The first service was held in a small building known as the Dunham school house. half a mile south of the present church. 'There was in March, 1875, a membership of forty-eighlt. The Sunday school was at once organized, with the pastor for Superintendent. The new house was dedicated l)ecember 13, by tlhe Rev. I). F. Barnes, Presiding Elder, who on that occasion raised $550 to pay for the building of the first and the second house. The next day the church held its first Quarterly Con 314 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAl'I)S. ference, and elected Peter Yokom Class Leader; also Stewards: G. W. Dillenback, Treasurer; R. M. Beamer, Recording Steward; P. P. Donavin, J. H. Fry, E. P. Parsons, Wm. Findlater; and assistants, Sarah E. Foster, Eliza A. Richens and Mrs. J. Fry. In its first year it Received $225 from the Missionary Society, upon whose aid it was dependent for a few years. In September, I875, the Rev. J. H. Sprague took charge, and served two years with success. In his term the building was lengthened 18 feet. From i877 to i879, the Rev. A. D. Newton ministered to them, and cleared the debt on the lots. He also founded the Plainfield avenue church while here. Next followed the Rev. E. Wigle, who was reappointed in September, i88o, but on account of failing health resigned in April, i88i; whereupon the Rev. S. L. Hamilton, resident here, supplied the church until September. From that time until September, I884, the Rev. R. C. Crawford's wise and energetic labors were richly blessed, as the record and results show. He immediately proposed the building of a church edifice, started a subscription, and on the 4th of December, I883, work began; on May 8, I884, the corner-stone was laid, and September 30 the fine building, capable of seating 300, completed and furnished, was dedicated, all indebtedness being provided for. He was succeeded by the Rev. J. W. H. Carlisle, who remained from September, I884 until September, I887, and was followed by the Rev. 1). Cronk' for one year. The Rev. Geo. D. Lee began his labors in September, i888, and was succeeded in 1889 by the Rev. Wm. Denman. Each of the aforenamed pastors had another preaching station, the first two conducting services on the West Side near Leonard street, the others statedly filling a Sunday afternoon appointment at the Hurd school house, four miles southeast of the city, where there is an organized class. The property of the church, consisting of edifice and grounds, is valued at $7,000. The annual income, with free seats, is about $1,250. The total number belonging to the parish is 400, of whom 175 are communicants and 250 Sunday school scholars. The societies of the church are: Ladies' Aid, Mrs. M. Hopkins, President; Epworth League, Zoe E. Pelton, President; Woman's Foreign Missionary, Miss Geo. D. Lee, President; Young Ladies, Zoe E. Pelton, President; Hampton Band, H. Sophia Sprague, President. W. T. Neeley, Superintendent of the Sunday school. The following are the official members: StewardsDr. A. J. Pressey, A. J. White, S. A. Holt, C. E. Stone, Mrs. I. Terrell, Miss M. Fisher, C. B. Foster, C. W. Hood and \V. T. Neeley. Trustees-S. T. Kinsey, F. J. Hopkins, L. S. Boynton, P. H. Richens, R. Pickett, A. Gaudern and H. K. Whitmer. PLAINFIELD AVENUE MI. E. CHURCH. SOUTHEAST CORNER OF PLAINFIEI.D AVENUE AND MADISON STREET. This church dates its birth from October, i878, in which month the Rev. A. D. Newton, pastor of the East Street M. E. Church, began to preach in New England Hall, 337 Plainfield avenue, and after a short time this missionary labor resulted in the formation of a class of nine members, auxiliary to the preacher's charge, of which L. Benjamin and H. Bement were the first leaders. L. Benjamin was also the first Steward. During the ensuing winter revival meetings so much increased the membership, that in the early auttumn of I879 a separate church organization was effected, which shortly after received, by appointment of the Conference, the Rev. S. G. Warner as its first pastor, who remained one year. The church still worshiped where the beginning was made, but in the spring of i88o the present site was bought, the cornerstone was laid in September, and before winter the frame of the structure, afterward to be brick-veneered, was erected. The legal incorporation took place Aug. 9, i88o, in New England Hall, when the members elected the following Trustees: Lewis Benjamin, Henry P. Bement, W. G. Saunders, Jesse T. Rice, George W. Perry, E. U. Knapp and John Trauger. In the building enterprise, the Rev. J. P. Force, who came in the Fall of i88o rendered valuable service. He was succeeded after one year by the Rev. A. J. Russell, whose health admitted of only one half-year of pastoral work, hence in March, I882, the Rev. Henry Bargelt was transferred from the Upper Iowa Conference to fill this vacancy, remaining here in all two and a half years, and doing efficient work. The church was completed and dedicated in the autumn of 1882, and the congregation had a steady growth. In I884 Mr. L. Dodds was appointed to this ('CHRCHES -PI.AINFIELD AVENUE AND AMES M. E..315 charge, but, painful to relate, was at the end of one year suspended from all ministerial functions for reasons deemed sufficient. This was a great shock to the society, from which they recovered, however, under the judicious and able pastorate of the Rev. \V. M. Puffer, which extended from I885 to i888. During his term much of the debt was paid, the church building repaired andt tastefully decorated. and sixty-four members were added. The present number is 124. The income the past year was about $i,6oo. The Sunday school membership was 263, with A. C. Jackman. Superintendent. The seating capacity of the church is 3o0, yielding no revenue 1by way of pew rents, and the estimnited value of the property $4,oo0, upon which there is a (deblt of S1,200. The Rev. D. Cronk assumed charge in the fall of I888, and was stlccee(led in i889 l)y the Rev. A. J. Wheeler, whose aitministration of the society is aided by the following Board of Trustees: E. U. Knapp. \Wm. Randolph. I. Currier, R. H. Littell, Lewis Benjamin. A. L. Skinner, \V. G. Saunders. Class Leader, R. H. Littell. Mrs. C. L. Rogers is President of the \o:nan's Missionary Society, and Mrs. C. C. Comstock of the Ladies' Aid Society. A prosperous Y. P. S. C. E. of twenty-five members is a recognized power for good. The church has the care of about three hundred and forty souls. AMES M. E. CHURCH. lOU'THIIW ST COKNER )OF SOU i'H i)\IVI-SON STRIKOT AND NINTH A\ ' NE.. The prayer-meeting, often called '"the p)tlse of the church,'' was the germ, the heart, and the formative power of this organization. In the autumn of I876, Mrs. Evans, Mrs. C. H. Fox and Mrs. Templeton, called a meeting at the residence of Mrs. Fox, 269 Fourth avenue, to organize a weekly prayer-meeting to accommodate a goodly number of the members of the Division Street M. E. Church, who were deprived of such privileges on account of the distance. The suggestion originated with Mrs. Evans. The meeting was organized with \V. H. Herbert as leader. Two or three weekly meeting were then held at Mrs. Johnson's, on Sixth avenue, after which they continued at Mrs. Fox's all winter. Many conversions took place. Of the twenty-four leading supporters of this work, fourteen were "sisters," and to the ladies this church owes a great debt of gratitude for remarkably efficient service throughout its history. Late in the spring of i877 a larger room was rented. It was part of the building on South Division street known afterward as "Dr. Watts' drug store." This was the birth place of the "class" soon organized by the Rev. T. F. Hildreth. The next move was made July 22, i877, by fifty persons gathered in the room over the gateway of the Fair Groulnds, twenty-five of whom were children. The " Fair Ground Union Stlnday School" was formed. The eight teachers mnet Friday evenings at 486 South Division street. Later the school was taken to that place and named "South Division Street M. E. Sunday School." The owner received $2 per month for five months for the use and warming of the ron ms. A Mite Society, with Mrs. J. Templeton as President, was formed to meet these expanses. On the 7th of' April, 1878, the Sunday School met in the African M. E. Zion Church, on Fifth avenue, which they rented for $3 per month. Up to this date tlhe recent average attendance had been seventy, and the collection ninety-eight cents. Besides the school, the prayermeetings were held in the colored church lntil June, i88o, when the Presiding Elder sent the Rev. Mr. Archer to nurse this promlising work into a church organization, which soon after was accomplished. Mr. Archer preached his first sermon in the "utpper room" over the Fair Ground gateway, where the Sunday School had been started, and his second under the shade trees in the yard of Mrs. C. H-. Fox, 269 Fourth avenue, where he continued all summer, to a large congregation. Mr. Archer and others circulated a subscription, and soon bought the lot now occupied by the church. The Rev. Mr. Valentine, appointed by the Conference, took up the work October 7, i88o, and found thirty-eight members. On the ioth he preached in the African Church, and on the following evening, at the official meeting, it was resolved to build a small house of worship on the site already purchased. Building was begun and on February 6, i88I, these itinerant Methodists found rest in their own yet unfinished home. After completion, it was dedicated June 27 of that year, the famous "Chaplain McCabe' preaching the sermon. The lot had cost $70o and the building $1,075.97, the total present value of which is about $6,ooo. The HIST()iY OF THE, CITY Or G umNO I&PI PS following were tllen members of the Board: Trustees —A. Gillett, G. 'V. Dillenback, H. M. Fish, S. H. Holt, Isaac Watts. Stewards-A. Gillett, J. E. Virgil, G. WV. Dillenback, N. J. Doxtater, H. M. Fish, S. A. Holt, Isaac W\atts. Class-leaders — J. R. Duncan and A. Gillett. At the close' of Mr. Valentine's year the membership was fifty-six. He was succeeded in September, 188i, by the Rev. Lafayette Dodds, during whose three years the church was lengthened sixteen feet, and a belfry and bell added, at a cost of $600 or $700, after which the church was rededicated under its present name in honor of the late Bishop Ames. The records of Kent county also inform us that on Dec. 7, I883, the "Ames Charge" was legally incorporated with the following trustees: James E. Ames, Seely S. Buck, \Villiam Barth, \Vilbur W. Smith, and John C. Klyn. The Rev. R. C. Crawford followed with three years of faithful labor, and the Rev. J. G. Crozier entered upon his work here in September, i887. The Sunday school has since increased from I 2 to 340 scholars, the congregation now crowds the house, the membership has grown from 124 to 240, a Y. P. S. C. E. has been organized, the church lhas recently been internally renovated, tile pulpit placed at the side and seats semi-circularly arranged and the floor carpeted. Thlle 350 sittings are all free. The Rev. E. H. King became its pastor in September, 1889. The cllurcl flourislles, has about boo parisllioners, and is growing more and Inore influential. It is now officered as follows: Trustees -J. A. DeVore, President; J. R. Duncan, Jamles Dunbar, John C. Klyn, Secretary; R. C. Sessions, Treasurer. Stewards James D)unbar, J. C. Klyn, J. E. Anes, E. Bird. J. A. DeVore, Jaines Virgil. John Stites, XV. 13. Tyler, the Rev. T. Clark, 0. C. Wing, J. H. Bell, Salell Osborne, Clarles Fox. Class Leaders-J. R. Duncan, J. <. Fish, J. Xv. XWarren. Sunday School Superintendent, \X'. 13. Tyler. GERMAN AM. EK. (CHtURCH. S.U'TIIEAST C N 1'; (O I. SICIINNERI ANTI) Sl( ()NI) SSl-IE.lTS. The original members of this organization were connected with tile German Lutheran Immanuel Church, corner of Division and East Bridge streets, until October, I858. At this time they withdrew, as they held doctrinal views at variance with the Luth eran standards of faith, and were thereupon constit uted a Methodist Episcopal Church by the Rev. Gustav Laas. The constituent members were G. Blickle, NM. Blickle, C. Kusterer, F. R. Oesterle, J. Blickle, L. Blickle and R. Oesterle. G. Blickle and J. Blickle were respectively the first class leader and first steward, and these two witl C. Kusterer, F. Oesterle and Julius Berkey -who remained a member of the Division Street Church, but in this way lent them his influence-were the first trustees. The list of pastors up to the present time is as follows: The Revs. G. Laas from i858 tc 1859; John Jahrhaus, from 1859 to i86o; Gustav Bertram, from i86o to i86i; A. Boerns, from i86i to 1863; Henry Krill, from 1863 to i865; Conrad W\ehnes, from i865 to i866; Henry Maentz, from I866 tc 1869; Gustav Herzer, from i869 to 1872 Henry Buddenbalum, from 1872 to 1875; Henry Pullman, from I875 to 1878; John R. Bodmer, from I878 to i88i; Henry Jend, from i88I to i884; John C. XWurster, from 1884 to 1887; and Hienry Pullman from i887, the present pastor. For a few years this society worslhiped in a hall in Hovey's Block, corner of \Nest Bridge and Scribner streets. This was a frame building, and was destroyed in tlie conflagration that swept away about sixty buildings in 1875. But in I862 tlley built a plain frame edifice of 30 by 40 feet on tlle nortlhwest corner of W\est Bridge and Turner streets, wlhere they gradually increased in numerical, financial and spiritual strength, and remained until Sept. 9, i 888, when they held an early Sabbathl inorninmg service there, and in a body proceeded( to tile new edifice to begin their regular services in tile basement. The old property was sold in thle spring of i888 for 8,300oo, and, a very desirable location being secured, the building of a two-story brick hlouse of worsilip was at once commenced, andl( also tlhat of a parsonage, whichl was occupl)ied i)y tlie pastor in tile summer of 1888. The fine clitlrch bl)uil(l'ng has very attractive roonms on tile ground floor for class, prayer and other meetings, and a invitingl, audience rooim on the secondl floor, that wxill accommlodate 400 persons. This property is wortl Si18,ooo, viz: the church S 13, ooo; the parsonage Si,6oo, and l)alance for sites. The present membership is i50, and the number in the Sunday school, I 25, while tlhe total nutmber of persons connected CHURCHES-GERMAN. E — AFRICAN M. E —ZION M. E. 317 with this parish is ab)out 325. The annual income will average $1,150, and the seats are free. The Official Board now consists of G. Kalmbach, J. Blickle, V. Schaake, C. Gentz, J. Barth, L. Hintz, C. Blickle, S. Perschbacher, F. Frueh, H. Kohlepp, F. Hartman, G. Betz and M. Betz. George Kalmbach is Sunday School Superintendent. All the services are conducted in the German tongue, and the church is connected with the Central German Conference, which embraces Michigan and some adjoining States. The commodious home which this prosperous congregation now occupies, was dedicated on Sunday, Feb. I7, i889, wvhen contributions to the amount of $I,OOO were made, leaving the unsecured indebtedness only $500. AFRICAN M ETHODIST KPI'SCO()P CHURCH. SPRIN(; STREET, NEAR A RTLETT. The African population of our city is variously estimated, but is not far from I,ooo, about 400 of whom are said to be church-goers, who attend the three African churches. The difference between their two Methodist organizations is not one of creed, but of government; the African M. E. Church electing its Bishops for life, while the African M. E. Zion Church chooses them for only four years. The above-named society was organized with seven members on the I5th of June, I874, by the Rev. A. Y. Hall, a Presiding Elder in Northern Michigan, at the house of Mrs. S. \Valker, 100 Lagrave street. George Bentley, C. A. Pinkney and Mrs. Susan Johnson were chosen the first officers. The infant organization was placed under the pastoral care of the Rev. G. B. Pope in August, I874, for one year. Annual changes of pastors have been the rule, to which only three exceptions appear. The list of its ministers is as follows: The Revs. A. Y. Hall, June to August, I874; G. B. Pope, I874-75; J. C. Burton, I875-76; L. D. Crosby, I876-77; J. Wv. Harper, I877-78; J. H. Alexander, 1878-79; J. P. Coates, 1879 —82; Cyrus Hill, J882-83; J. Bass, 1883 —84; G. \V. Chavons, I884 —85' C. H. Thomas, I885-87, and J. H. Alexander, from I887, still in charge. The society rented an old building on the corner of Spring and Goodrich streets for purposes of worship, which was partially destroyed by fire September 12, 1882, by' which they lost all the church furniture. Then they moved into a blacksmith shop, owned by Wim. Smith, corner of Ionia and Cherry streets, but their pastor, the Rev. J. P. Coates, had already, during his efficient ministry, collected most of the materials for a new building, which was erected under the direction of his successor, the Rev. C. Hill. A burdensome debt, however, remained, which was not removed until the Rev. C. H. Thomas took hold of it during his term, when the amount, $1,6oo, was paid. With this happy event an era of greater prosperity began. The church is now self-sustaining, raises annually about $300, anTd owns property worth $4,000. The pastor's residence is an annex to the church, built for such use. The membership numbers fifty-one, and the Sunday school attendance sixty-five. The seats, numbering 300, are free. The present officers are: C. A. Pinkney, Richard Jacobs, John J. Johnson, John Coleman and John Williams. AFRICAN M. E. ZION CHURCH. FIFTH AVENUE, RFB.E\-WFEN JEFFERSON AVENUE AND CENTER STREET. Methodism first appeared in this country in New York City, about the year I765, where the famous John street church was the first built. There were several colored members in that church from its organization. Between 1765 and I796 the colored membership so largely increased that caste prejudice forbade their taking the sacrament until the white members were all served. Dissatisfied with this treatment, and desiring other church privileges denied them, they organized independently, in I796, the first African Methodist Episcopal Church, and in i8oo built a church, calling it "Zion, " out of respect for which oldest organization the denomination adopted its name of "Zion." The church of that name in this city was organized Feb. i, I878, being the first colored organization here. The charter members were twenty-three in number, who enjoyed the labors of their first pastor, the Rev. Luke Miles, and elected the following as theirfirst officers: Trustees-Jas. Philips, Henry Pinkney, and David XVilliams, local preacher: I. J. Logan. Secretary, and Susan Smith, Treasurer. In May, I88I, they bought a lot on Withey street (now Fifth avenue), and built a small, plain church edifice, dedicated by the pastor, the Rev. D. 318 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Butler, Oct. io, i88I. About six years since it was considerably improved, will seat 200, and,with the site, is worth about $i,500. To this and the other African M. E. church, the people of Grand Rapids have at various times contributed generously for building and current expenses. The congregation is feeble, numbering but seventy, of whom forty are communicants with forty-six Sunday school scholars, and they raise annually about $8oo for various objects. The Revs. Luke Miles, D. Butler, G. W. Solomon, H. M. Cephas, J. Green and Wm H. Snowden have served as their pastors, the time of their ministry not ascertained, and the Rev. J. V. Given since i888, with whom are associated as Trustees, Thomas Corbon, James McConnell, Andrew Sims, George Washington, Alexander Washington, Henry Daley and Henry Brown. FIRST PRES3'VTERIAN CHURCH. NORTHEAST CORNER OF SCRIBNER AND FIRST STR'EETS. The Rev. Dr. Joseph Penney, father of Col. Joseph Penney, was a Presbyterian clergyman living here in retirement as early as I847. He established a mission Sunday school on the West Side. Meetings were held in a building which he caused to be erected for a lecture room at the west end of the Bridge street bridge, upon the site of the present Weirich block. This work was, in some sense, the forerunner of the Presbyterian church, though it had died out before such organization The church above named was founded Oct. 26, i855, with the Rev. Courtney Smith as pastor. Sarell Wood and eleven others were dismissed by letter from Park Congregational Church for this purpose. The officers then chosen were: EldersSarell Wood, John Terhune, George XV. Perkins, Elihu N. Faxon and Henry Seymour. Trustees-John Terhune, George W. Perkins, E. Morris Ball, Boardman Noble, S. Wood, E. N. Faxon and A. H. Botsford. The other members were, Edward P. Camp, Martha Camp, Henry C. Marvin, Sarah Ferguson, Adelaide Waring, Margaret Nevius, Alson Adams, Amelia D. Farnham, Triphena D. Farnham, Mary A. Henman, Sarah M. Smith, Susan W. McIntire, David Beebe, Sarah Beebe, Lydia Beebe, Harriet Hyde, Mary Ann Reid and Kate Terhune. Of these twenty-five constituent members, Mrs. E. P. Camp and Mrs. Adelaide Waring still reside here. Soon after organizing, V small chapel was built, at a cost of $i,ooo, and without debt, on Front street about opposite the present Belknap wagon shops. During the first pastorate, which terminated in April, i86i, the growth was so rapid that I76 members were reported in I858, and even in its second year the present grounds were purchased, and the building now occupied by them commenced. In I857 the congregation were full of sanguine expectations, looking for an early occupancy of the edifice, whose walls were completed and the roof begun, when the financial crisis suddenly arrested this enterprise, as it did multitudes of others throughout the country. In I86I their pastor, whose memory is still lovingly cherished by the surviving members of that date, because of his sterling worth and his beneficent influence here as a loyal patriot at the outbreak of the war, left them to organize the Wrestminster Presbyterian church of this city, and the Rev. Justin Marsh succeeded him on the \Vest Side, remaining one year. In i862 the Rev. Jasper Ball began his term of one year, and was followed by the Rev. Augustus Marsh, son of a former pastor, who labored there until I866. Next came the Rev. E. B. Miner, from i866 to i868. All these faithful servants contended with the serious disadvantage of an unsuitable house of worship, and a debt of $8,000 incurred by the project of i857, which by the accumulation of interest had grown to $io,ooo. The suspension of work upon it had left the structure exposed to the elements, and at last the front wall, made of plaster or gypsum stone, succumbed to these destructive forces. But in March, i868, the Rev. Henry H. Northrop entered upon the pastorate with a determination to change the situation, in which the church was greatly encouraged by the first successful effort, which reduced the indebtedness of $8,ooo to E. H. Turner to $I,700, who at last gave them the lots. Then the congregation repaired the building, and finished and occupied the basement at an outlay of about $2,000. The following April this stirring pastor was succeeded by the Rev. Wm. B. Sutherland, but after one year there was a vacancy again, and in October, i870, Mr. Northrop was induced to return, and labored among them three years more. During his last year he achieved another CHURCHES — FIRST PRESBYTERIAN-WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN. 319 noteworthy success, in the completion of the house of worship. The auditorium, with a seating capacity of at least 800, and room for,00ooo in all, was at last ready for use, having cost $4,000. In the liquidation of the debt, and later expenditures, it is proper to acknowledge the receipt of aid from the Synod of Michigan. Mr. Northrop bade them farewell in October, I873. In January, i874, the Rev. William A. Fleming took his place, and for four years rendered effective service. It was chiefly through his foresight and self-denying labors, and those of a few faithful helpers, that Mission Wood Presbyterian Church was started, as elsewhere described. In his fifth year he was physically disqualified for such work as the church needed; hence he resigned in March, I879, and the Rev. James Barnett became the stated supply, serving two years, beginning in July, I879. In October, I88I, the Rev. H. P. WVXelton was secured, and on the 3ist of January, 1889, closed the longest pastorate the church ever enjoyed. His abundant labors were performed with marked ability and devotion, and bore noble and rich fruit that abides. He left the charge in the following condition: Communicants, 260; Sunday school scholars, 300; total number of parishioners, 600. Value of property about $i8,ooo, and without debt. The seats are free, and the annual income is about $2,400. In the fall of I887, the church organized the "Endeavor Presbyterian Mission," which meets in Madden's Hall, 177 Stocking street, and enrolls about seventy scholars. It is under the care of a vigorous Y. P. S. C. E., which also conducts a weekly prayer meeting at this point. The last pastor in i885 commenced the publication of a little monthly, called the Record, which was designed to advertise the local work and further the congregational interests. This was suspended for a time, and then reissued as a diminutive weekly, which the pastor regarded as a valuable aid. The following are the church officers (i889), the first named of whom has served continuously for thirty-one years as a Trustee: Elders-T. F. Richards, S. H. Ocker, James Dale, W. B. Bennett, A. Thompson, C. M. Alden. Deacons-F. G. Rosa, D. C. Emery. Trustees-T. F. Richards, H. Widdicomb, S. H. Ocker, J. R. Stuart, John Risedorph, J. G. Lehman, F. G. Rosa. The Rev. L. H.Davis accepted the unanimous call of the church, and assumed the pastorate Feb. I7, I889. WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. SOUTHEAST CORNER OF LAGRAVE AND ISLAND STREETS. The Rev. Courtney Smith, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, became the founder and first pastor of this organization, bringing several of his members with him WESTMINSTER lRESB\TER1IAN CHURCH-I885. to this enterprise. A meeting contemplating this was held in the office of W. E. Grove, June 7, I86I, and on the I2th articles of association were adopted, and the following Trustees chosen: C. H. Chase, \V. E. Grove, L. L. Riggs, C. J. Deitrich and A. H. Botsford. On the I7th of July the ecclesiastical organization was effected by the Presbytery with twenty-five charter members, and A. H. Botsford and C. J. Dietrich were then chosen Elders. The first Board of Deacons was constituted in I863 by the election of C. G. Brinsmaid and E. 0. Stevens. At its constitutional organization by the Presbytery the church belonged to the New School Presbyterians, but afterward changed its relation to the Old School branch, with which it remained until the reunion of the branches in I867. 320 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Until i865 they occupied the Swedenborgian house of worship. Then the opposite corner, southwest corner of Lyon and Division streets, was bought, and a brick edifice built upon it, which they occupied until the fall of I875. In the spring of that year the United States Government took possession of the entire square, paying for the church property $14, ooo. The present site was then purchased, and the chapel was finished in I876 and used for several years for all church purposes, but in i885 the church proper arose upon the foundation that had been in waiting since I875, and was occupied October i, i885. - This property is now valued at $60.00ooo. The seating capacity of the church is 7oo, and of the chapel 300. A very serious defect in the acoustic properties of the church was remedied in I887, at an expense of $I,ooo, by covering the walls and ceiling with canvas stretched a couple of inches removed from these, and this frescoed to appear as the original surface of the walls. The pastors who have served the church are: The Revs. C. Smith, i861-65; R. S. Goodman, I865-72; C. M. Temple, stated supply, i872-75; F. G. Kendall, I875-79; D. E. Bierce, S. S., i88o 8i; L. M. Schofield, I882-84; Sanford H. Cobb, i885, and still in charge. The menmbership is 320; Sunday school enrollment, 279, and total number of parishioners about 900. The revenues of the church amount yearly to $5,ooo0 a large proportion of which is derived from pew rents. C. L. Frost superintends the Sunday school, and the officers are: Elders-W. C. Vorheis, G. E. Shepard, WV. H. Pierce, C. B. Hooker, S. H. Sherman, E. A. Munson, \V. 0. Hughart and C. L. Frost. Deacons-C. G. Brinsmaid, A. T. Page, M. E. Tomlinson, J. M. Hurst. Trustees-G. N. Wagner, H. Idema, J. H. P. Hughart, S. P. Bennett, J. E. Botsford, L. M. Lemon and F. R. Luce. MISSION WOO() PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. WEST BROADWAY, BITW:EEN WATSON ST'R.ET AND) 1UT'.':R\V Rt I'4 AVENUE. In the summer of I875 the Rev. \Wm. A. Fleming, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, began a mission in the woods, or oak grove, where this church is now located. In the fall of that year Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Boyer, Mr. and Mrs. H. Benjamin, and Mr. and Mrs. J. King, met at the residence of M. J. Ulrich to devise measures to secure a suit able place in which to hold their Sunday school during the winter. The committee then appointed recommended the erection of a temporary building. W~. 0. Hughart, hearing of this action, offered to give the lumber for a church building, provided a lot was secured and held in trust by the First Presbyterian Church. This proposition was accepted, and the trustees selected the present lot, which cost $6oo. Quite an undenominational or union interest was manifested by the people of that neighborhood in the success of the enterprise, and the ladies' soliciting committee and socials were so liberally encouraged that the purchase price of the lot was soon raised, also a fund of $8oo for the building of a chapel, which was dedicated early in the spring of i876. In March the Sunday school was organized with Mr. Ulrich as Superintendent, the average attendance for the first year being seventy-five. In addition to this work, Sunday afternoon worship was conducted there, Mr. Fleming preaching once in two weeks, and supplies from the city and about rendered gratuitous service on the alternate Sundays. In this manner church privileges were provided for a goodly congregation and growing neighborhood, and without any decided denominational connection; but it became necessary for the trustees holding the property to fulfill the contract for the lot, when the mission was organized Feb. I8, I883, as it now exists. The Rev. M. Bocher became its pastor on that day, and the first officers were elected, to-wit: Elders — Charles Van Aernam and Orson Hauser. Trustees -— R. B. Wallin, George Mclnnes, Wi\. E. Knox, Henry Mosher, Isaac Quiglev and G. A. Brosseau. There were forty-four charter members. Mr. Bocher closed his pastorate May i, 1885, and the Rev. Win. H. Hoffman succeeded him June 3 of that year. The audience room is 28 by 60 feet, having a seating capacity of 250, and in the summer of i888 generous friends enabled the church to add a lecture room of 22 by i6 feet, at a cost of $300. The people of this section of the city are called to worship by the sweet tones of a bell weighing 475 pounds, which was largely the gift of the Sabbath school and a generous friend. The present value of all this property is about $4,00oo. The Sunday school enrolls 250 scholars, and is superin CHURCHES-IMMANUEL PRESBYTERIAN-FIRST REFORMED. 321 tended by Geo. H. Stander. The increase of members has been slow, only seventy communicants being reported. This is not equal to the expectations of the founders, but it must be borne in mind that the Baptists and Methodists have attracted their share of worshipers and supporters by locating places of worship very near them. In I888 a Y. P. S. C. E. was organized. The seats are free; the annual receipts from within the congregation are $500, and aid is derived from the Board of Missions and friends. The present officers are: EldersChas. H. Rose, George McInnes and Geo. H. Stander. The pastorate became vacant by the resignation of Mr. Hoffman, March 3, 1889, but on the first of May the Rev. Thomas G. Smith succeed him as stated supply. IMMANUEL IRE'SBYTERIAN CHURCH. (N MADISON AVENUE OPIOSITE ()AKI)AI.E AVENUE. Early in the spring of i886 a considerable number of suburban residents of Paris township and the southern part of the city, began to agitate the organization of a Sunday school. At a meeting held April 4, in the school house just south of the fair grounds, on Madison avenue, the forty attendants, chiefly adults, formed a Union Sunday School by the election of the following officers: Superintendent, J. WV. Warren, with Thomas Crane as Assistant; Miss Delia Mason, Secretary, and Edward Burd, Librarian. The average attendance during the first year was seventy-six. In connection with the school, usual church services were conducted by invited ministers of the city. In April, i888, those who habitually worshiped here addressed a formal invitation to the NWestminster church to incorporate this enterprise as its mission, and take charge of it. This plan met with favor, and very soon after said church erected a substantial and commodious chapel, with seating capacity of 400, at a cost of $2,500, upon a choice site of 150 feet square, presented for the purpose by a gentleman of Brooklyn, N. Y. In the fall of I888 this was occupied by the mission, since which the growth of school and congregation has been rapid and gratifying, the former now enrolling 225 scholars, and the latter being sufficiently strong to render a church organization advisab)le. Such formal organization was effected )by the Presbytery Sept. Ii, 1889, with a membership of twenty-four, from whom the following officers were chosen: EldersWm. Lyman, J. W. Warren and Amos S. Musselman. Deacons-Fred Rowen and A. J. Creelman. Trustees-A. S. Musselman, S. W. Glover, W. G. Sinclair, F. C. Cox and D. D. Mason. The Rev. George Reynolds, who had been in charge of the mission since July i, was then elected pastor, and the above church name adopted. The pastor was installed Oct. 23. The new organization continues for a time to receive the fostering aid and care of the mother church. FIRST REFORM E) CHURCH. NORTH DIVISION STREET, BETWEEN FOUNTAIN AND PEARL. The Domestic Missionary Board commissioned the Rev. Hart E. Waring of New York as a western missionary, and about May 20, 1840, he came to this field of labor, and was warmly welcomed by Deacon George Young and a few others. Sunday, May 26, i840, he preached in a private house, and gave notice of the intention to organize a "Reformed Protestant Dutch Church," as it was then legally styled. This event came to pass Monday, Aug. 12, 1840, at the residence of the new pastor, which stood on the northeast corner of Bronson (now Crescent avenue) and Ionia streets. The following twelve were the constituent members, mentioned in the order in which their names are entered upon the records of that date: Samuel F. Butler, and Lydia, his wife; Hezekiah R. Osborne,and Emily C.,his wife; Adelaide Waring, wife of the pastor; Billius Stocking, and Mary H., his wife; George Young, and Eliza, his wife; James S. Horton, Abraham Horton, Daniel C. Stocking. Of this number only five are living, three of whom still reside here and two are identified with other churches. The Consistory then chosen was constituted as follows: Elders-George Young and Samuel F. Butler. Deacons-H. R. Osborne, and Billius Stocking. The pastor was its President. A Sunday school was organized, and Elder Young chosen Superintendent. A choir was soon formed, of ten members, Deacon H. R. Osborne being the chorister, Elias Young playing the flute, and Charles Osborne the bass viol. The church thus organized first held its services for from six months to a year in the 322 HISTORY OF THE C( village school house, a small frame building on "Prospect Hill," on the south end of the site now occupied by the Ledyard block on Ottawa street; and next, for greater convenience, hired at fifty cents a week the upper part of Amos Roberts' building on the northeast corner of Fountain and Ottawa streets, the present site of the Peninsular ITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. gregations were so large, that, in the autumn of i84I, the necessity of securing a suitable and permanent home was felt. Accordingly the Kent Company offered to give a large lot on the southwest corner of Bridge and Ottawa streets, for a church site, and the Consistory on the 3d of January, 1842, concluded to accept this offer, and to build as soon as possible on the ground thus presented, worth then probably $IOO. The plan of the church edifice was at once drawn; its dimensions were to be "38 feet wide, 50 feet long, I o feet clear in the baserment, 20 feet in the \>_...... main body; Kendall \^-:-__f^ Woodward was appointed chief architect; J. L. Wheeler master mason; Elders George Young and S. F. Butler were chosen as a building committee. The material for this stone structure w a s taken from the bed of the river. Ground was broken for the basement the 25th of April, 842, and on the 9th of May the corner stone was laid with approN 1842, BRN i 872, priate ceremonies, in which the entire population were interested, for it was a great event in the little town, and the house was to be an imposing and magnificent one for those times. The Grand Rapids Enqui-er of May 20, 1842, gives the following description of the projected building: The edifice is to be of wrought stone, taken from the bed of the river, and in the Doric order. Its dimensions are fifty feet by thirty-eight feet, and thirty feet in height, including a spacious basement ten feet high, which will be finished immediately for the use of the congregation. The inside of the main building will be completed as soon as practicable. [Which was not done until I86I.-ED]. The walls when elevated will be surmounted with an architrave, frieze and cornice, forming a rich and massive entablature. The belfry will be composed of one section, fifteen feet in height, and finished in the Grecian Doric order, and is destined for the introduction of a bell weighing 8oo00 to i,ooo pounds, which is to be FIRST REFORMED CHURCH-FIRST HOUSE OF WORSHIP-BUILT Club House. There they worshiped nearly a year, next occupying for two or three months the second floor of a frame store nearly opposite Waterloo on Monroe street. At the end of the first year of Mr. Waring's laLors the membership numbered twentysix, and the congregation from forty to seventy-five. The first infants baptized were Elizabeth F., daughter of the pastor, William H., son of Deacon H. R. Osborne, and Henry S., son of Deacon B. Stocking; and the first adults baptized were Euphemia Davis, now the wife of Rev. Dr. Jewett, Baptist missionary to India, now retired, and her sister Vinett, deceased-who were among the first converts during a revival in February, I84I. During the second year the church had won such favor, and the con CHURCHES-THE FIRST REFORMED. 323 presented to the church, on its completion, by Messrs. Carroll and Lyon, to whose beneficence the society is also indebted for its eligible and commanding building site The front on Bridge street will be of hammered stone, with corners of the Grand River granite, laid in fine cement, and will have two large windows, one each side of the door, which is situated in a recess three feet by eleven, formed by the projection of the main walls. A Doric fluted column will be placed on each side of the door, sixteen feet high, and two and a half feet in diameter, which will support an entablature similar to the one on the main building. When completed, it will be an ornament to our village, as the style is chaste and in keeping with the material of which it is to be composed. In the autumn of that year, the basement, being completed, was occupied, and "Deacon" Young was commissioned to solicit aid in the East to finish the edifice. He spent from October until the spring of I843 in this work, and reported twenty-four churches visited and $943.93 collected, but, alas, for the poverty of those days, the entire fund was consumed in the payment of old debts and expenses, and the auditorium remained in stali/ quo, the windows being boarded up. Disaffection having arisen between the pastor and Elders Young and Butler; though sustained by the almost unanimous endorsement of the church and the community, in which this wxas then the leading church, Mr. Waring resigned August i, 1843. At this date the members numbered thirty-eight, the audiences from ioo to i5o, and the Sabbath school fifty scholars. The Rev. Andrew B. Taylor soon after assumed the pastorate, and labored faithfully, but in September, I848, seeing no signs of promise for the future of the church, he resigned, when by authority of the Board, Dr. Penney was asked to supply the church, but he declined. No successor being secured, the church, having a membership of thirtythree, gradually disintegrated; but, as appears in the history of the Second church, the property was for six years quite as useful as before. The organization for whose use the house was built was practically defunct, only "Colonel" Butler and Deacon Young remaining as Trustees to claim and care for the property; but toward the close of I859 good resulted from a threatening evil. The heirs of the donors of the church site claimed that this property should revert to them, since there was really no legal organization extant, and it was given for church purposes only. Apprised of this, Herman \V. Liesveld, Bernard Grooten huis, Herman H. Van der Stoop and Marinus Harting were at their requests dismissed in December, 1859, from the Second church, to identify themselves with the mis-fortunes of the First, and on the 7th of that month formed a Consistory, and on the 28th a Board of Trustees to incorporate the church. In July, i86o, the Rev. Philip Berry, just entering the ministry, became their pastor, and the reorganization was completed and work resumed with twelve members. With the aid of churches abroad the auditorium was soon finished at an expense of $I,000, and the church dedicated June 9 i86i. The following pastors succeeded Mr. Berry, who resigned in July, i86i: the Rev. John M. Ferris, June, I862, to July i, I865; the Rev. Henry E. Decker, July, i865, to September, i867; the Rev. Christian Van der Veen, March, I868, to May, I87I; the Rev. Jacob Van dler Meulen, May, I87I, to April, 28, 1872; the Rev. Peter Moerdyke, September, 2i, I873, and still in charge. About June, 1863, the location of the church was deemed so unfavorable that the congregation moved to the old meeting house, northeast corner Division and Park streets, built in 1840 by St. Mark's church (see its history), and remained there until the end of i866. The building belonging to the church was, however, never long vacant or useless, for in that summer of I863 the auditorium and basement were rented to the United States for hospital purposes, and for three months were a scene of suffering and death, several regiments being encamped here, and later it was put to a variety of uses. But at the close of i866 it was reoccupied by the congregation, after a thorough renovation costing $2,000, and the free seat system experiment proved a failure after one year's trial. In I867 the church owned its first organ, and the next year had its first installed pastor, previous ones being missionaries of the Board of Home Missions, which paid most of their salaries; the selfsustaining period was not reached until Jan. i, i88o. In the night of May 3, I872, a "black Friday" visited the church, the morning of Saturday revealing only the charred debris and begrimed stone walls of their sanctuary left. But the fire proved a blessing in disguise, for, though the people worshiped with the Westminster Presbyterian Church for a year and a half, enjoying their kindly-proffered hospitalities, the Trus 32I4 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. tees, H. H. Van der Stoop, H. W\. Liesveld, M. P. Brown, L. D'Ooge, T. M. Grove and J. A. S. Verdier were on the lookout for a resumption of church life. They soon found their opportunity, for in February, I873, the old property, containing the ruins of the church, was advantageously disposed of by sale ard exchange, which by May following placed them in possession of their present parsonage, 151 Lyon street, and the present house of worship, then bought of the Baptist church, which was building its edifice on Fountain street. In the month of August, the Rev. J. W. Beardslee, of Constantine, Mich., declined a call tendered him. whereupon the present pastor was called in August, I873. He accepted and entered upon his labors September 21, and for one month occupied the pulpit with the Rev. S. Graves, D. D.each preaching once per Sabbath-which union meetings continued until the Baptist society vacated the building. The present pastor was installed October 28. The statistics of that date are as follows: Members, twenty-nine; hearers, all told, forty in the morning and twenty-five in the evening; Sunday school scholars forty-five, including pastor's Bible class of nine. This represents about the average strength of the church for ten years previous. But a new epoch had dawned, for since that new beginning a steady, healthful growth has marked all the years that have elapsed, until to-day the following status has been reached: Members, 325; parishioners, 700; Sunday school scholars, 350, including the pastor's Bible class of ninety, which is the largest in the city, and has an average attendance of seventy-two; and property valued at $20,000 without debt. Various improvements have been made by which the church and parsonage have been enlarged, no less than $6,ooo having been expended in that way. During July and August, i88i, the congregation worshiped in the Hebrew Synagogue in Godfrey's block, by the gratuitous hospitality of its society, while the church building was being enlarged and remodeled at a cost of $3,000. The annual income of about $2,500 is raised without pew rentals, as the seats have been free since I873. For some time the congregation has outgrown the seating capacity-420-of the present house, and so strongly desired a more commodious and creditable sanctuary, and better facilities for the ever-enlarging demands of the work, that in April, I888, a site for a new church at the southeast corner of Fountain and Barclay streets was purchased of Dr. Charles Shepard, for $o,0ooo, partly paid, upon which they hope soon to build a house of worship to cost about $20,ooo. To accomplish this, all their former property is offered for sale, and the sum of $9,000 is pledged by the members. For the past four years the church has published The Church Record, its own local monthly church paper, edited by the pastor. It is a four-page paper, 9 by 14 inches in size, free from advertisements and devoted to the interests of the local church, by which it is regarded as a great favorite and help. Th( following societies are well sustained: The Banner of Light Mission Circle, membership I50; the Cheerful Givers' Mission Band, membership 50; Y. P. S. C. E., organized Nov. 27, I888; Young People's Literary Society, membership 75, and a Chautauqua Circle and a Choral Society. The church is officered as follows: Consistory and Board of Trustees, the Rev. P. Moerdyke, D. D., President. Elders-H. H. Van der Stoop, Vice P}resident; John Snitseler, James Van (der Sluis, Clerk; Nicholas Baker, James Stoel. Deacons — John A. S. Verdier, Treasurer; Herman A. Vedders, Frank J. Dyk, Henry Van Dyk, Win. H. Van Leeuwen and Henry Ter Keurst. Sunday School Superintendent, J. A. S. Verdier. PETER MOERDYKE, D. D., was born in Biervliet, Province of Zeeland, Kingdom of the Netherlands, January 29. I845, having among his ancestors both Huguenots and Hollanders. In I849 the family emigrated to Michigan. Leaving their old home June 22, they sailed from Hellevoet-sluis July 8, on the ship Leila, of Baltimore, with a large company of Hollanders, under the Rev. H. G. Klyn as leader. It was thirty-eight days before they landed in New York, having had the usual experience of storm and calm. After a trip up the Hudson, they boarded a canal boat, which brought them to Buffalo in nine days. A steamer then took them around the Lakes, and ascending the Grand River to Grandville, they enjoyed the luxury of an ox-cart and a corduroy road to Zeeland, where they were to settle. The entire journey con II11~ REVFI~E~i) ITE'I'1k M\oF1\3DYN KI ~,, I) 1)I 325 32.; sumed more than two months, being completed Sept. 4. After remaining in Zeeland fifteen months, the father, who was a carpenter, removed his home to Kalamazoo. There the boy was placed in the District school, being already able to read the Holland language. He continued his attendance there until eleven years old. During these early years, both at home and in the catechetical classes of his church, he received faithful religious instruction. For several years he and his older brother William recited the catechism in the church every Sunday afternoon, as an introduction to the preaching which was to follow. To this fact, and the good results secured by it, as well as to a wider experience of its benefits as learned in his own pastoral work, may no doubt be attributed his earnest and successful efforts in catechising the youth of his own flourishing church. Another fact is worthy of mention, as showing the fotindations of his vigorous health and his wellknown sympathy with those who toil day by day. In that home were many wants to be provided for; the boys were, therefore, taught to feel that they must help, and for an entire winter, when they were respectively twelve and ten years old, they supported the family, their father being disabled by rheumatism. Surrounded by such influences, his mind and heart were early directed to his own religious condition, and we find him when only thirteen, the youngest of a company of twenty-eight uniting with the church. In October, 1859, he entered the Holland Academy, which, soon after, received its charter as Hope College. He was the youngest member of the first class to graduate from the young college in I866. Three years later he was one of the first class to graduate from the Theological Seminary at Holland. During these years he was not only a hard student, but, during vacation, a hard worker also; sometimes as a carpenter, gasfitter, or farmer; at other times engaged in religiols work, such as agent of the Ottawa County Bible Society, selling religious books in the Holland settlemnents of Michigan, Illinois and VWisconsin, or organizing Sunday schools, and conducting religious services. 'Ithe last two years of his course he was employed as Tutor in the college. Graduating from the Theological Seminary in May, i869, he was ordained by the Classis of Michigan on the 24th of the following June, and accepted a callfrom the Reformed churches of Macon and South Macon, in Lenawee county, where he continued to labor with much zeal and success until Nov. 2, I871, when he closed his work there to take the position of Assistant Professor of Latin in Hope College. Soon after accepting the call to this charge, he married Fannie J. Guy, who (lied July 20, i88o. He retained his College Professorship two years, during which time he preached in both the Holland and English languages almost as much as if he had retained his charge. In August, i873, he accepted a call from the First Reformed church of Grand Rapids, and began a work which has grown steadily more extensive and blessed for nearly seventeen years. The church organization is among the oldest in the city, having been formed in I340, but its history up to the time of his call had been very discouraging. For many years it had no service. Even when he came it llad but twenty-nine members, and had been holding occasional services for some time in the roomnis of the Y. M. C. A. There was serious thought of disbanding, and the call was sent out by the little band and accepted by him with many anxious fears. But he camne, the old Baptist church was secured, and soon the energy and devotion of the new pastor began to bear fruit. Being able to use both the Holland and English languages, he found an open door into a wide field, which lie soon occupied. His church began to attract the young people, and he has been specially successful in winning them. Il is thorough catechetical instruction, his clear, earnest preaching, and his ceaseless pastoral work, under God's blessing, have resulted in one of the largest and most active churches in the city. The membership has grown from twenty-nine to three hundred and twenty-five, while full half as many have been dismissed to other churches, or have died since he began his work here. I-is theory is that every Christian ought to be a worker, and the many organizations and agencies successfully carried on by his church, show that he is making that theory bear'good fruits. Outside of his church he has also been very active. In the Pastoral Association of the city he is the oldest and one of the most faithful in cultivating fraternal relations between the churches, and devising methods 36 ) HISTORY OF THE CITY O(F GRANI) RA.-IDS. for reaching the masses with the Gospel. In the Y. M. C. A. he was for years one of the Official Board, and the teacher of its Union Bible Class. For his Alma Mater he cherishes a worthy love, shown by faithful efforts to promote its interests. He has been Tutor in its Grammar School, Professor in its College and Lecturer in its Theological Seminary, being for two years in the latter, in charge of Greek, Exegesis and Biblical Antiquities, at the same time performing the multifarious duties of his pastorate. He is also a frequent contributor to De Hope, and to the various papers issued in this city. In the general work of his denomination he has always thrown his influence in favor of a broad and energetic effort to secure its growth and usefulness. Actuated by this motive, he has, since 1888, been an earnest advocate of the proposed union of the Reformed Church in the United States and his own denomination, pleading for it in the pulpit, through the press and before ecclesiastical assemblies. In Classis; in the Particular Synod of Chicago, of which he is the Stated Clerk; in the General Synod of the entire church, of which he was Vice-President in i888; in the Council of Hope College of which he is Secretary, as he is also of its Executive Committee, he always pleads for a vigorous prosecution of the work. He spent the summer of i886 in Europe, giving special attention to his own native land, and making his church as well as himself the richer, as they can testify, by many a lecture given for their benefit. Heidelberg University, Tiffin, Ohio, conferred upon him the degree of Doctor of Divinity in June, I889. In June, I883, he married Maria Perry, and has four children, the eldest, a daughter of his first wife, now a young lady. As a man and citizen and pastor, in domestic life and in society, the record of his life speaks for him, and renders further comment needless. SECOND REFORMEI) CHURCH. ON BOSTWICK STREET, NEAR I.VON. This is the oldest Holland church in the city, and has been a powerful factor in its religious progress. The first Hollanders that came to the village were Hiram H. Van Reede, his wife and daughter, who in 1847 came here directly from the Netherlands and joined the First Reformed Church. They formed no part, however, of that large immigration which in that same year settled in Ottawa and Allegan counties, under the leadership of the Revs. A. C. Van Raalte, C. Van der Meulen and M. Ypma, and there formed what was generally designated as "the Holland colony." Our respected townsman, Francis Van Driele, immigrated in I847, and, after a residence of nine months in Ulster county, N. Y., came to the neighboring village of Zeeland, where he tarried but four weeks and then in I848 settled here. He was the pioneer of that movement which has brought so many thousands of his countrymen and established so large a number of Reformed churches here. The pastor of the First Church, the Rev. A, B. Taylor, very cordially welcomed Mr. Van Driele, and those who followed him soon after, to-wit: the families of Albert Kroes and Louis Lageweg, seven or eight young ladies and two young men besides himself, John Roost, afterward the Hon. John Roost, of Holland, and Joshua Elenbaas. These were shortly afterward reinforced by the arrival of the families of B. Luten, P. Hendrikse, Zwemer, and others. All these people, as were all of that first immigration, who really came to this country to escape the annoyances to which they were subjected in the fatherland on account of their secession from the corrupt State Church, were decidedly religious. Mr. Taylor, aware of this,offered to Mr. Van Driele, their chosen leader, the free use of the basement of his church, elsewhere described, and there for several months this company assembled on Sunday afternoons for lay reading services and devotional exercises. Mr. Taylor's resignation in September, 1848, providentially left the church vacant for the encouragement of the founders of a church that was to perpetuate the Reformed faith here. At once three services were held there every Sunday, and as the congregation was rapidly growing by accessions from the colony of those who came to stay or find employment for a season, the Holland ministers aforementioned came from Holland, Zeeland and Vriesland to preach for them occasionally. After Mr. Van Driele's marriage, March 25, I849, he fitted up a part of the basement of the church for his residence, and occupied it for nearly four months with five or six Holland boarders. As early as the summer of I848 there were io8 young women connected with this congregation, and the influx of the young people and of families was so large, that in July or August, 1849, the Rev. CHIURCHES-SECOND REFORMED) CHURCH. 3:27 A. C. Van Raalte, by request, organized this church, and installed the officers then chosen, viz: Elders F. Van Driele and G. Dalman, who also performed the functions of Deacons for a time, until two such offi t warehouse, was occupied by them in i854. This was a Godsend to a people of very limited means. But they were industrious and thrifty, devoted to their church and steadily increasing in numbers, so that in i854 they were enabled to support a pastor. The Rev. H. G. Klyn was accordingly secured as such in I854, and was greatly blessed in his work, until serious trouble sprang up in his congregation in I856, which is related in connection with the rise of the Holland Christian Reformed Church in this city. On Sunday, Jan. 27, I857, \ v Mr. Klyn formally declared \ his secession from the denom"\ "' ination, and was by the Con*..... \ - sistory, which had held an:::~ \- early morning session, ex) ~- cluded that day from the pulpit. About one-half of - i. —. the congregation followed L"q,.......him in the founding of the ^ - new church and denomina-..... - tion. Eight months later he '..-. was restored to good stand-; ' ing in his former ecclesiastical connection, on confes-. sion of his error, but a rival Holland organization h ad been born, that has grown....f..^ strong and ever been positively antagonistic to the:~. ';^^ Reformed Church. T h i s 7 ' - ^- schism in the local church was disastrous. For a long time it was sadly crippled. In i857 the following statistics were reported: families, fifty- four; communicant s. l ninety - four; catechum e n s, forty; but as evidence of their rally from this severe blow, in I859 the figures were: I30 members and I30 catechumens, and nearly $I,55o raised in one year. Early in 1859 the Rev. W....._ -:-A. Houbold entered upon a pastorate of about two years, -- — I - during which, the church suffered considerable loss;but in May, i86i, the Rev. Cornelius Van der Meulen began his faithful and eminently successful ministry to this flock. At his coming the membership was seventy; in I866 it was 152, and I6o families; in i87I SECOND REI)OKMED CHURCH-BUILT IN 1870. cers were added by the election of A. Esveld and John Bylsma. The free enjoyment of the house in which this infant enterprise had been cradled, was continued until the brick church on Bostwick street, now Van Driele's .32.8 HISI'O()kY OF THE CITY OF GRAND R.\APIDS. it was 316, families 300; Sunday school scholars 300, and nearly $o,0ooo raised for local church purposes, and $i, 143 for benevolence. For many years the Holland population had increased at a surprising rate, mostly by immigration. This had rendered a larger house of worship a necessity, which was built in I870, the corner-stone being laid May 31. Though numerically strong and liberal, the congregation was made up of poor people, with but few exceptions. The cost of the building was $34,000, of which at its completion only $i 1,000 were paid. This burdensome debt has gradually been reduced, only $4,000 now remaining. In I873, when the number of families was 376, of members 481 and of catechumens 200, the aged pastor was at his request declared emeritus pastor by the Classis of Grand River, and the Rev. Nicholas H. Dosker was called from the Netherlands. He accepted and entered upon his labors in the summer of that year. The church now supported and provided residences for two ministers, the beloved emeritus pastor preaching once every Sunday until his strength failed a few months before his death in August, I876, at the age of 76 years. The memory of this genial, efficient and pious man of God is sacredly cherished here, and in the hearts of thousands in various places. Under Mr. Dosker's ministry the immigration continued, his labors bore abundant fruit, and the audience room with a seating capacity of,000ooo was overcrowded. This suggested the plan of building two chapels in i876, when the membership had reached 612, and the families numbered 4I7. These plans were executed, and thus the Third and Fourth Churches were started. But the parent church soon filled up as before. In i883 the pastor accepted a call to Kalamazoo, leaving a parish in which he had for ten years rendered good and faithful service. How he had endeared himself to all appeared in a marked manner when in I887 his remains were brought here for burial. Both he and his predecessor are honored with memorial tablets in the church they served so long and well. The present incumbent, the Rev. Egbert Winter, was installed April 20, i884. In I886 a large number of members of families were dismissed to constitute the Fifth Church, which has greatly reduced the numbers of the mother church, but has really benefited all concerned, leading to greater activity on the part of all, and developing a special aggressiveness a mong the young people. The day for accessions from immigration is past, the central location being unfavorable to this, and other organizations are drawing this element, hence the Americanizing tendency of the young is now systematically fostered by an English evening service instituted in iS86. This involves the expense of a weekly assistant supply to conduct one of the three regular services of the Sabbath. In 1888 the auditorium was shortened, reducing the seating capacity to 8oo, and decorated, and a $3,500 pipe organ was added in November to its furniture. About $5,500 was thus expended, and in February, I889, the basement was renovated. A graceful spire was built upon the tower in September and October, 1889, at a cost of $,5oo00. The last census of the church reports 225 families, 450 members, 200 catechumens, 350 Sunday school scholars, and an average annual income of about $7,000, twenty per cent. of which is for benevolence. The pews are rented. The number of parishioners is I,030. The societies of the church are: Dorcas Society, Woman's Foreign Missionary Society (which supports a native Hindu pastor), Woman's Church Aid Society, and Young People's Society of a literary, religious and social character. The Sunday school also supports a native Hindu pastor. The present officers are: Elders —John G. Koke, G. De Groot, J. Van de Velde, Geo. Vrieling, Barend Dosker, F. Oltmans, H. Veldman. Deacons-F. M. Hulswit, Wm. Moerdyk, Win. Kotvis, Egbert Wonnink, Cornelius Verschoor, Evert J. Bruss and Gerrit Hondelink. This church has for over two years sustained a week day mission service in the Eighth \Ward, which, in connection with certain elements of the Fifth Church, is likely to result in the building of a chapel and a new organization. THIRD REFORMEI) CHURCH. N>lR THI\\' S CO)RNER OF CFNTENNIAI. AND 1t1'R.MIAGiK. Sl'REETS. The Second Church, to which all Hollanders of this denomination who worshiped in their mother tongue belonged, had grown beyond the ability of one pastor to attend to the wants of its 500 families and 700 or more members. Besides, the parish was CHURCHES-THIRD REFORMED-FOURTH REFORMED. 329 co-extensive with the city and suburbs. The distances to the church were long, pastoral visits necessarily rare, and the church life of multitudes fell below their ideal and their needs. Hence, a large neighborhood, living where the parish now lies around the church as its center, resolved to "swarm," if permitted. The movement was sanctioned by the Consistory of the mother church, and by the Classis of Grand River, which latter body, through a committee, organized the church, Oct. i, I875, with sixty-two constituent members, whom fortysix others followed within six months after, making a total of ninety families in April, 1876. The first Consistory chosen were: Elders-M. Klaassen and A. Esveld, and Deacons, E. Grooters and A. Buys. At the time of their organization they occupied the sanctuary, which was begun in July and dedicated in August, 1875, a frame building of 30 by 50 feet, which in 1876 was enlarged to 50o by 8o feet, and in 1886 to 50 by Ioo feet, and seats about 8oo persons. The Rev. A. Kriekard, then of Kalamazoo, accepted their call, commenced his labors here Feb. i, 1 876, and was installed on the i3th. The advance made by the church has been steady and healthful; in I88o the report showed i49 families, 212 communicants and i88 Sunday school scholars, and the annual income over $2,ooo; and the tenth annual report was, 185 families, 261 communicants, 245 in Sunday school, and correspondingly increased revenues. The latest statistics report 240 families, 348 members, 355 in Sunday school, 7IO baptized non-communicants, and 260 catechumens. Hence the parish contains no less than 963 souls. The temporalities of the church have also kept pace with this gratifying progress, in spite of the fact that with scarce any exceptions its people are in very moderate circutmstances. In I878 a pleasant, brick-veneered parsonage was built on the northwest corner of East and Holbrook streets, at a cost of $2,500, and in i88o the young people expended $350 in building a Lecture Room on the lot bought for that purpose in 1879, lying immediately east of the church edifice, which is used for v arious societies and meetings. The present value of all this property is at least $ 2,000; there is no debt, and the revenues reachl the sumn of $3,750, about 25 per cent. of whiclh is contributed for benevolence. The pews are rented at moderate 28 prices. About fifty of the members reside in the country, and almost the entire congregation is suburban nominally, but practically part and parcel of the city population. The present officers are: Elders-Isaac De Pagter, Cornelius De Jong, Adrian Van Doorn, Andrew DeVree, John Kloote. Deacons-Adrian Buys, who is also Sunday School Superintendent, Peter Kriekard, Rokus Verseput, Albert Klaver, Isaac Warner. The societies connected with the church are: Y. M. C. A., the pastor President; Woman's Benevolent Society, Woman's Missionary Society, Young Ladies' Society of Willing Workers, and two Singing Societies. FOURTH REFORMED CHURCH. NORTII IONIA, BETWEEN WALBRIDGI(;E AND COLDBROOK STREETS. This church was organized Sept. 25, I875, by the Classis of Grand River, as the Fourth Reformed Church of Grand Rapids. The late Rev. N. H. Dosker, then pastor of the Second Reformed Church, of whose congregation this enterprise was an outgrowth, presided as Chairman of the Classical Committee to effect the organization, which was consummated by the enrollment of about fifty members and the election of Elders Adrian de Leeuw and Leendert Silvius, and Deacons John Koster and Peter Groeneweg. The latter declined, and William Bommelje was chosen in his stead. These constituted the Consistory and Board of Trustees. A house of worship being completed, on Nov. 26, i875, the church, with thirty families, extended their first call to its pastorate, and welcomed the Rev. L. J. Hulst, of Danforth, Ill., at his installation, June 23, I876, to the new parsonage. Accessions by letter from the mother church were numerous, prominent among whom was Francis Van Driele, who joined in April, i876, and was elected Elder to succeed L. Silvius. The increase from Holland immigrants, who, to this day, settle numerously in that part of the city, was a great factor in the growth of the church; and in the spring of i88o the church edifice was greatly enlarged, and the report in i88i showed 177 families and 273 members. The AntiMasonic agitation, originating in the First Reformed Church of Holland, Mich., in the summer of i88o, reached this Consistory June 29, i88o, and profoundly disturbed the peace of the church. At the congrega 330 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. tional meeting of Sept. i6, i88o, it was resolved by a large majority to present a memorial to the aforenamed Classis, having jurisdiction over them, setting forth their conscientious protest against further toleration of the church mtembership of Masons, changed its name, and, one year later, joined the denomination known as "The Holland Christian Reformed Church." By decision of the courts, it holds the church and parsonage property, now valued at $5,000. Sixteen male memlbers, however, remained loyal to the; 0- '-' c. ', l denomination by whose ' --.:!-~-' - aid the church had grown, and these continued the original organization, which now flourishes on North Ionia -_..:~ -street, opposite the school house. The number who refused to join in this secession was soon foulnd to be thirty_____S^; yseven communicants and twenty - one fam i I i e s, whom the Classis recognized as the lawful organization. They at,,B1B ~ once formed a new Consistory or Board of Trus-'lit_ tees, comnposed of Elders -_:- _.'.,_ l 1'[ Francis Van Driele and r \tm. Bommelje, an ( ____ -Deacons H. W. Hofs _ - a- i and Justus c. Herstein. ____ 1 )anDeprived of their house,:___ '___mber_ _,of worship, they met for _tr- -e- ___ _; a _ time in an old building *o iegan — o rec! ovn Coldbrook street, bea nw - mm tween Ottawa and Ionia.a — -i Fbrl,streets, which had been --— a 'tlised as a grocery store. w...~ Here Reformed minis-.....1 a |!BS ters of this city, and supf= chur ch. s plies granted by the.s-.ic. Classis and occasional lay reading services, maintained their worship. ntil they secured their..- = present pastor, the Rev. 38~8 Peter De Pree, who was installed Nov. I6, i882, the number of families being then twentythree, and of members forty-two. They soon began to recover lost ground, also drew lnany new immigrants to their communion, an(l in February, i883, were obliged to seek a larger audience room. By their own liberal subscriptions, and the generous aid of Reformed churches here and elsewhere, a sulfficient fund was raised to erect a tem FO)RT}I REFORMEID) ('IURXCH- RI CTI) IN 18 and members of other secret societies, and that, unless the General Synod of the Reformed Church in America should grant a deliverance in accord with their views, they would take steps to be released from present ecclesiastical connections. Accordingly, on Sept. 8, i88i, the congregation assembled, and, by a large majority vote, severed its relation to said denomination, (CHUJRCHES —F()R I'Hl AND FIFTH REFORMED). 331 porary meeting house on the present site, in which they were soon sheltered. The church grew so healthfully that in 1887 they resolved, with the aid of the Board of Domestic Missions, to erect a suitable house of worship. In this, also, neighboring churches considerably assisted them. Accordingly they disposed of their temporary abode for $i25, and reserved the right to its use for a time. It was then removed to Plainfield avenue, near LeGrand street. and year. The Sunday school enrolls 287 scholars. Their average income for the past four years has exceeded $2,000. The total cost of their real estate, parsonage and church, is estimated at $I2,000, which is below present value. Upon this property there is a debt of $6,000. FIFTH REFORMED CHURCH. NOR'I'THWEST CORNER OF SECOND AVENUE AND CARPENTER STREET. As early as I882-83 a considerable proportion of the members of the Second ooj 0 0. I. -... I -... -......... I I.:. - -i i-. w - :. -..m.- . -.:............. AO f: I II` F II R F F( W IF' I ). - I IN,, I' If, )t -s FW 11.1 I\ FM 1" HAV", Fl.llkl-ARV, 1880. is now known as "Finn's Hall.'" A substantial and elegant frame edifice succeeded, built in Queen Anne style, at a cost of 87,000. It has an auditorium that will seat 520, and a basement with the best facilities for Sunday school, prayer meeting and other purposes, which latter rooms were opened with appropriate exercises March i i, 888, and used for public worship until July I, i888, when the completed house was dedicated. An organ costing $,00ooo was then among its furniture. With the growth of the church the Consistory has been enlarged, being now constituted as follows: Elders — F. Van Driele, \Win. Bommelje, R. J. \Veber, H. W\. Hofs, J. C. Herstein and A. J. Walker. Deacons-G. Van Strein, John Bolier, C. Boertje and J. Koster. The last annual census of the church reports i64 families, 254 members, three-fourths of whom have joined by letter from the Netherlands. There are 583 baptized parishioners, making a total of 773 souls, and they have an average of over forty infant baptisms per Reformed Church who reside in the vicinity of the above church began to agitate the question of a new organization, inasmuch as they were inconveniently distant from their place of worship. Their application to the Consistory was for a time discouraged, and practically withdrawn, but in 1885 urgently renewed, and a petition addressed to the Classis of Grand River, which latter was granted. Accordingly this ecclesiastical body, through its committee, organized the Fifth Church with eighty-six members, who presented letters from the parent chutrch. This occuirred in Stevens' Hall, 15 and 17 (Grandville avenue, January 28, I886. For a short season the new congregation worshiped in said Hall, and later in a private dwelling. On the third of February, a large number of male members, all volunteers, took hold of $I 50 worth of mate rial, and in four days converted them into a temporary meeting house, 30 by 64 feet, on the present site of the parsonage. Here they worshiped until they dedicated their HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPI.\'II)S. new, capacious and elegant sanctuary on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, i886, which had been built during the summer under the direction of Sidney J. Osgood, architect. The corner-stone was laid July 6, i886. The auditorium seats 8oo, and the Lecture Room in the rear on the same floor, is arranged to be opened for 400 more, when in the parish I,050. The Consistory chosen at the time of the organization wvere: Elders-Evert Welmers, Albert \Welmers, Jan Wormnest and Gerrit Antflink. Deacons --- Hermanils Hondorp, Gerrit J. Lippink, Marinus A. Sorber and Albert Stryker. The first pastor, the Rev. R. H. Joldersma, was installed May 26, i886. F}IFTH REI:(ORMNII) CHIt:RCH-l;I'll.T IN 1886. necessary. This building cost about $I i, ooo. In I887 a beautiful parsonage was built on a lot adjoining the church site on the south, at an outlay of $2,000. In I888 the old temporary house of worship was converted into a barn for the pastor's use. These buildings and three lots now have an estimated value of $I5,000. Upon this there remains an indebtedness of about $o,ooo000. In i886 there were eighty-six members, forty-two families, and fifty scholars when the Sunday school was formed. Now they report 365 members, 236 families, and 375 Sunday school scholars, and total number Hermonus Hondorp is Superintendent of the Sunday school, and the Consistory and Board of Trustees consist of: Elders-Gerrit Antflink, Albert Welmers, Henry J. Grooters, Wm. Hydeman, Michael Duyser, Henry J. W. Campman. Deacons —Hermanus Hondorp, Martin A. Sorber, Albert Stryker, Jr., Albert De Haan, Cornelius Stryker, John B. Grooters. The Rev. R. H. Joldersma resigned in March, 1889, and was succeeded in August by the Rev. Ale Buursma. The free-seat system was in use until the end of I889, when the majority decided to adopt the practice of renting the pews. PARK, CHRISTIAN AND DUTCH RE'FORMED. OA KI)A IE I'A RK REFORM()I ) C U RCtH. During I888 a considerable nluml)er of Holland families settled in this siuburban park. M. Veenboer, M. D., being desirous of supplying this section with church privileges, on February i, i889, gave three lots, each 45 by 125 feet, to the Rev. A. Kriekard, pastor of the Third Church, in trust, for the founding of this organization. On the I4th of February Mrs. A. C. Brown, an aged lady of New York City, deeply interested in home missionary work, contributed $200 toward the building of the chapel, which was begun in April and dedicated July 2. The Rev. A. Kriekard, whose suburban parishioners were chiefly interested in this movement, enlisted the services of Reformed city pastors as supplies, and, besides, lay reading and catechising were continued, and by authority of the Classis of Grand River the mission was, on August 9, organized as a church, with twenty-eight members and the following Consistory and Board of Trustees then chosen: Elders, B. Barendse and G. Jonkhof; Deacons, T. Nyhoff and H. Zuidemna. The Sunday School enrolls forty scholars, twenty-five catechumens attend two weekly classes, and a Woman's Helping Hand Society of eleven members is active in promoting the welfare of the church. In October, 1889, the addition of a graceful belfry, containing a bell, was made to the church edifice. Only a trifling debt now remains, and the infant church, having grown slowly under a system of supplies mostly gratuitous, in February, 1890, extended a call to J. M. Lumke, a theological student at Holland, to become their pastor, which he accepted, to assume charge in May. CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH. N(o. 202 NORTH DIVISION SR'l 'R I'. This was organized November 30, 1870, as an independent body, by the Rev. C. Kloppenburg, just from the Netherlands, with forty charter members and the following Consistory and Board of Trustees: Elders, Klaas Smit and John Sinke; Deacons, G. DeGraaf and W. Freere. This occurred in the Swedenborgian house of worship, where they worshiped until early in 1872, when their present edifice was ready for occupancy. This, with parsonage on the same lot, cost $6,700. The first pastor died Septeimber 6, 1876, and was succeeded January iI, 1877, by the Rev. C. Vorst, the present incumbent. The prese 't strength of the church is: a membership of i8o, parishioners 400, property valued at $8,ooo, and an annual income of Si,8oo. The present officers are: The pastor and Elders C. Lindhout,A. Arnoudse, N. J. Stokkers; Deacons, A. Verhaar, M. I)e Foulw, C. Schryver, and C. Roselle; with John ()om as Clerk. " NEI)ER[)UITSCHE (; E R:IO RE iI;FORMEIIIE: (;EM EEN'I TE. )IJUTCH REFORME) CHtURCH. A T 368-370 t' RIN R SR'l'l:T. Dating from the Centennial year, a considerable number of Hollanders, dissatisfied with existing Reformed Churches, were banded together for religious worship, which for eleven years they maintained in a hall on West Bridge street, though without pastor and without formal organization. The work was superintended by a committee, who appointed various lay readers for seven years, but from 1883 until October, i887, M. Donker statedly read the sermon and conducted the two Sabbath services. Having persevered and held their own in this way, their first and present minister came to them October i6, 1887, from the Netherlands, when the congregation was largely increased and the purpose formed to establish a church in a home of their own. Hence, in November, the old Turner street-No. 6 -school house, built in i865 and vacated in i882, with ample grounds, was bought of the city for 82,600, remodeled and adapted to their use. Sitting accommodations for 600 were thus secured. This was occupied and dedicated February 5, i888. On the ioth of December, I887, the church was organized with forty-eight constituent members, whose number has now increased to 102, the present number of parishioners being 270. 'Ihe first Consistory were: Elders, M. Donker and M. DeWinter; I)eacons, J. Janse, M. Blick and J. De Meester. In the summer of i888 the parsonage, immediately south of the church, was built, costing $1,200. The seats are free, and the voluntary gifts of the people, whose Sunday gatherings average 520, have been sufficient for all purposes. The total value of their property is at least $6,000. Several catechetical classes, taught during the week and on Sunday, by the pastor, take the place of the Sunday School. The 334 HIST'(ORY OF THE CI''TY OF (GRAND RAPIDS. present consistory and Board of Trustees are: Elders, M. Donker, M. DeWinter and C. Ouwerslulis; Deacons, J. DeMeester, M. Blick and J. Wieland, with the pastor, the Rev. T. Meysters. The legal incorporation was effected in March, i889, and the church is entirely independent of any denominational connection, thought adopting all the standards of the Reformed churches. HOLLAND REFORME) CHURCH. ([.ANCV STRti -, NFAR ('EI)A STRI T. The pastor, the Rev. John Van den Broek, founded this church January 2, I889, and incorporated it legally February 4, as an independent body, with thirty-two charter members. The articles of association were signed by: Elders, Henry J. DeGraaf, Andries Filius; Deacon, Jan DeHaan, and the following members: Cornelius Quinten, Wm. Foppe, Jan S. DeGraaf, Johannes Van't Veer, Jan Nelise, Peter Oudeman, Martin Hogendyk, Cornelius Van den Bosch, Peter Van den Bosch, Cornelius Quist, Cent Faasse, Marinus Van Poortvliet, Wm. Den Braber, James Van Stee, and J. Snoek. After the incorporation they occupied Finn's Hall until they moved to their own church edifice. The church is composed of elements disaffected toward other Holland churches; has a membership of eighty-seven and 196 parishioners. In March the congregation purchased a lot on Clancy street, near Cedar, upon which a frame house of worship was erected, and dedicated June 23. It is 60 by 30 feet in size, having a seating capacity of 300, and, with lot, cost about 2, 700, upon which there remained in January, I890, a debt of $i,8oo. The seats are free, yet assigned to families, and the church is sulpported by voluntary contributions. Catechisation of several classes by the pastor during the week renders the Sabbath School needless, as is the case with some other Holland congregations. The present Consistory and ex-officio Board of Trustees is constituted as follows: Elders, Henry J. DeGraaf, Andries Filius and John Sinit; Deacons, Adrian Kosten, Jacobils J. Snoek and Kommer Van den Bosch. SPRING ST'REFT HOLLANDI CHRISTI''AN REFO(R El CHURCH. SI'RING STREKTl, BETWEEN ISI.\NI) AN) (.)AKI.'. In the sketch given of the Second Reformed Church the simultaneous origin of this organization and its own denomination is referred to, but needs further explanation. Not long after the Holland immigrants to West Michigan had connected themselves with the reformed Church in America, in I850, causes of disaffection arose, one of which was the earnest recommendation of "Baxter's Call to the Unconverted" by leading ministers and officers of that day, in spite of the charges of a few here and elsewhere that it was not in accord with the Reformed faith. Early in i856, the installation of Elder-elect B. Dalman, in the Second Reformed Church of this place, was objected to on the ground of his alleged unsoundness in the faith. An appeal was taken to the Classis, which declared him qualified for the office, into which he was accordingly inducted; whereupon several, under the leadership of Gysbertus DeHaan, John Gelock, Johannes Gezon, Jacobus De Jonge, H. Rademaker, Gerrit DeGraaf and others, withdrew from the church and worshiped regularly in the second story of Gunn's store on week days and on Sunday in Collins Hall on Canal street. This continued for about one year, when the party, having gathered considerable strength, prevailed upon the Rev. H. G. Klyn to follow them in the secession, who, in his formal withdrawal on Sunday, January 27, 1857, justified the movement for the following four reasons: First, the use of hymns in the Reformed Church; second, choir singing in said church; third, Union Sunday School books used therein, which are not in harmony with the creed of the Reformed Church; fourth, admission of all evangelical Christians to communion with them and of evangelical ministers of other denominations to their pulpits. His influence drew after him about one-half of his congregation, possibly fifty families and about fifty members, of whom he became pastor in thle new denomination immediately organized and known at first only as "Seceders," but later under the name of their own adoption, viz: "True Protestant Dutch Church."' The Consistory then chosen was constituted of: Elders, John Gelock, Johannes Gezon and Gysbertus DeHaan, and Deacons Berend DeGraaf, Hendrik Moerman and Adrian Pleun. Upon their pastor's repentance of his schism, only eight months later, the congregation reniained without pastoral care and labor until I863, when the Rev. Wm. H. Van Leeuwen, pursuant to their CHURCHES-HOLLAND CHRISTIAN REFORMED. 335 call, came from the Netherlands and assumed charge. Regular reading services and catechising and family visitation had, however, been maintained by the Elders, and a frame house of worship, costing, with grounds, $4,000, had before this been erected on the northwest corner of Ionia and Island streets, which was used until the building of the present brick edifice in iS67. This is IIo by 50 feet in size, and with its spacious galleries seated 1,300 persons, until the organ, in I887, diminished this capacity by Ioo. In i888 about $3,500 was expended in the completion of tower and spire and other repairs. A large proportion of immigrants have, from the first, joined this body, and, before the "swarming" of its members to form new churches in different parts of the city, as many as 400 familes belonged to the parish, and three times every Sabbath filled this large sanctuary. The present statistics report 230 families, 340 communicants, and total number of souls, or parishioners, i,ooo. This church was served by later pastors as follows: The Rev. R. Duiker from I867 to 1873; the Rev. J. E. Boer from I873 till i876; the Rev. John Kremer from 1877 till I88I, and the Rev. J. H. Vos, now in charge, from I88I. All their ministers, excepting the Rev. Klyn, were imported from the fatherland, as the church had no other way of supplying itself with pastors. In addition to the city churches of the same name, organizations at Jenisonville and at Kelloggsville, both founded in 1875, look to this church as their parent. The present denominational name was adopted in I88I. The old house of worship was sold, and later moved to Goodrich street and converted into a tenement. The church erected its parochial school on Williams street, between Ionia and Spring streets, in I874. It is a roomy two-story brick building, the lower part only used for the school, which has about i00oo pupils throughout the year, and during the summer vacation of the public schools about 200. The instruction is in the Holland language. The Sunday School, superintended by W. Brink, enrolls 250 scholars. The following societies meet statedly in rooms on the second floor of the school house: Y. M. C. A., Young Women's Association, Dorcas Society. The receipts of a year are now about $5,000. The aggregate value of the church, and the parsonage adjoining it on the north side, is estimated at $20,000. The present Consistory and Board of Trustees are: the pastor; Elders-Hendrik Drukker (Clerk), Antony Karreman,Darus Hogeboom, Adrian Pleun, Jan Smitter, Watre Spoelstra, Klaas Sytsema; Deacons-Menno DeBoer, Adrian Brink, Cornelis Kryger, Jacob Kuiper, Jacob Lamberts, Jelle Zaagman. EAST STREET HOI.LAND CHRISTIAN REFORMEDI CHURCH. IAS I' S'I'ERI', BIITI'WEN LOGAN AND ELL.A ST'E'IEE1TS. This strong and flourishing organization is a daughter of the Spring Street Church of the same name. As early as i877 a chapel of 40 by 50 feet was was erected on the present church site, and services, catechetical instructions and meetings were there regularly conducted, resulting in the organization of the church Sept. 15, I879, with eighty-six members, representing seventytwo families. The first Consistory was then elected and constituted as follows: EldersA. Bisschop, J. Stelma and J. Bolt. Deacons-K. Fongers, H. Veltman and J. Zettema. Supplies from the Theological Seminary and the parent church continued the services until September, i88i, when the Rev. J. Post was installed as first pastor, and took possession of the new parsonage. He served with ability until January, I887. During his pastorate their parochial churchschool was organized in i882, which first met in the basement of the church, but grew so rapidly that to accommodate its 240 pupils, with Principal J. Veltkamp and three assistant teachers, a large two story frame building, with four commodious rooms, was erected in i887 on Logan street, two blocks east of the city boundary line. The present pastor, the Rev. S. B. Zevensma, came from the Netherlands as their pastor-elect, and was installed June 24, I887. The necessity of larger and better church accommodations soon became imperative, and it was decided to tear down the old house and build on the same site, which was done, and the dedication took place October 23 of that year. This structure has a seating capacity of 1,200, and with the pleasant parsonage adjoining it on the north, and the school house already described, is valued at $I5,ooo. Fully one-half of the i,875 parishioners, of whom 456 are communicants, live east of the city limits. The Sunday school. with K. Fongers, Superintendent, num 336) HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. bers 440 scholars. A Young Men's Christian Association formed in I879, also a Young Ladies',Christian Association, a Woman's Missionary Society and a Singing Society are prosperous and helpful in the work of the church and parish. In the fall of i888 their Year Book reported 320 members, but in December, i888, a 'quiet and effective revival pervaded the parish of 360 families, resulting in a large accession of converts. In addition to the pastor, the following constitute the present Consistory: Elders-J. Brink, J. Bolt, N. Fongers, A. Bisschop, T. Doetma and H. Veltman. Deacons-J. Zettema, H. Xiersema, L. Post, J. I)ykema, M. Van de Wal, J. Ellens. C(II)ID(OK HOLLANI) CHRISTIAN RE"()RMEI) CHURCH. s(O'I} 1FASTi (' (RNEI OF NORTH IONIA AND LEGRANI) STREETS. The history of the Fourth Reformed Church relates the secession of this body in i88i from the denomination known as the Reformed Church in America and their retention of their present property held by the original corporation. The minority, which remained loyal to the General Synod and Classis that refused to adopt certain tests of membership demanded by the majority of this congregation, instituted legal proceedings to recover their property, but failed, and the Supreme Court, having considered their appeal, was equally divided upon the question, which virtually affirmed the adverse decision of the lower court. Hence this old congregation, under its new name, and soon after connected with the Holland Christian Reformed denomination, began its career in I88I with a complete material equipment. It retained the pastor, who was their leader in the transfer described, and he has remained with them until the present time. The church is in a flourishing condition, now numbering 286 families and 355 members, the entire number of baptized adherents being 1,476, Sunday School scholars 250. S. S. Postma is Superintendent. The annual income of the church is fully $3,000. The present Consistory is as follows: The pastor, and Elders A. Ghyssels, J. Keukelaar, L. Silvius, NV. Van Vliet; Deacons-K. Van der Veen, P. Van Eeuwen, N,. Silvius, D. Termolen. WV. Huttinga. The pastor teaches ten catechetical classes per week. A Young Men's and a Young Ladies' and a Dorcas Association are valuable helps in the work of the church. A IPINE, AVENUE HOLLANI) CHRISTIAN REFORMEI) CHURCH. CORNER ()1 AIPI'NE AVEN'UE AN) ElEVENTH STREEI-T. This church was organized May 25, i88i, by their Classis, pursuant to the petition of about thirty families residing in that vicinity, yet belonging to the Spring Street Church of the same denomination. The first officers were: Elders-H. Datema, A. Waterloo, B. Scrhikkema; Deacons-A. Van Bree and A. Hooghuis. A house of worship 36 by 62 feet was ready for occupancy and dedication when the organization was effected, and reguiar services were held by neighboring ministers until November 26, i882, when their first pastor, the Rev. Wm. H. Frieling, of Lamont, Michigan, was installed. This, being the first and only Holland Church on the west side, supplied a great want, as was evident from a growth so rapid that, on the resignation of the pastor, in the spring of I886 there were with it 200 families. After the Rev. P. Ekster, the present pastor, was installed, September 5, i886, a transept 40 by 50 feet was added to the edifice, making its seating capacity 750, which was dedicated November 25, i886. The Consistory, in the fall of i888, appointed a committee to take steps toward the building of a new church, corner of \Vest and Crosby streets, for a new organization to be set off from this flourishing church. This neat edifice, 50 by 60 feet, was built upon a lot 00oo by 130 feet, which was presented by B. McReynolds. It has a seating capacity for an audience of 350. It has cost $2,300, and with the site is estimated at $3,000. The seats are free. This house was occupied b)y an unorganized congregation after the dedication, which occurred January 6, 1889. Until separately organized this property and the worshipers belonged to the mother church, but regular Sabbath services were held and the pulpit was supplied by professors of their Theological Seminary in this city, or its students. The statistics show: 265 families, 315 members, total numlnber of adherents 1,300, Sunday Scllool scholars 3oo. A parochial school is connected with the church, with H. J. Miedeina andll 1'. Huizenga as teachers, who give instruction il the Holland lalnguage. Thle school is o)pen tile entire year; religious instruction forms part of the course, and tuition is chlarged, b)ut all deficits are met l)y the chulrch. The property con CHURCHES-HOLLAND CHRISTIAN REFORMED. 337 sists of church, school and parsonage, on five large lots, two on one side and three on the opposite side of Alpine avenue, corner of Eleventh street, the present value being about $I2,000. The amount raised annually is nearly $3,000. The present Trustees are: Elders-L. S. Rodenhuis, A. Van Bree, A. Waterloo. J. Boys' Association, with G. Berkhof as President. FOURTH HOLLAND CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH. AT 8I LAGRAVE STREET. The denomination to which this organization belongs has clung tenaciously to the Holland language. For many years it had become more and more evident that, unless provision were made for worship and catechetical and Sunday school instruction in the English tongue, the church would inev-... - itably lose a large proportion of its ~-~......youth. InJune, I886, alll~i ~the Classis of Holland memorialized G the General Synod on the subject, and - favorable Synodical action was tak e n. —......w'" — -— g The first step of the 7= cSynod was the appointment of Prof. __ve t me_ G. Hemkes, the Rev. J. Post and Elder John Gelock, all of this city, a committee with discreti o n a r y J,," ~power, and next it was resolved to elect S__ats. a third Theological two? _ - Professor for its Seminary in this city, who should be competent to give instruction in,_________ English, and should also preach in En_ " glish here or elsewhere every Sabbath -BUILT IN i888. e accordi n g to t h e need. A majority of the originators of this movement met Dec. I6, i886, in the Holland school building on Williams street, which is the parochial school of the Spring Street church. There it was resolved to invite the Rev. John Y. DeBaun, of Hackensack, N. J., a minister of the True Protestant Dutch Church, to spend a few Sabbaths xyith them. He came, and after two Sabbaths of worship in Metropolitan FOURTH HOLLAND CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCHBerkhof, H. Van der Ark and J. Steven. Deacons —G. Timmer, S. Ruster, J. Van Luik, J. Kleinhesselink, H. Buter, T. Kraai. Sunday School Superintendent, A. Waterloo. Three associations meet the wants of the young, in addition to their regular weekly catechetical instruction, namely: A Young Men's Association, with G. DeHaan as President; a Young Ladies' Association, with J. Vandermey as President; and a 29 338 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Hall, a petition, dated January 7, I887, was addressed to the Classis requesting separate organization as an English church. At the Classical Meeting of February 8, the request was granted, and the memorable victory won over deep-seated and time-honored antipathies and prejudices. The church was organized on the 25th of February, I887, in the hall aforesaid, i was extended to the Rev. J. Y. DeBaun, which was accepted, and after a few weeks of supplies, mostly by the theological student E. Van den Berge, their first pastor was installed in May. They soon after bought two lots on Lagrave street, one of which contained an old residence that was remodeled into a pleasant parsonage, and upon the other the work of church building was begun, so that the cornerstone was laid November 8, I887, and the sanctuary was dedicated with impressive ceremonies on Sunday, June 17, i888. This structure is of solid brick, with a tower 80 feet high, built in modern style. Its auditorium, 48 by 64 feet, is tastefully frescoed and furnished, seats 550, and is directly connected with the lecture room that accominodates 200. This house of worship cost $12,000, and the total value of the property is $22,000, upon which the liabilities amount to $io,ooo. The seats are rented. The parish now includes 97 families, 450 souls, 92 of whom are '/ communicants, and i8o Sunday School: scholars, and their annual income is ' \/ $3,000. John Scheffer is their Sunday N' School Superintendent, and the church \\ officers, in 1889, in addition to the pastor, were: Elders-Arend J. Welmers, \ Berend DeGraaf, Sr., John Gelock, i'\ Cornelius Verburg; Deacons-Jas. C. j\\ Verheulen, Lucas Drukker, Cornelius.. Borrendamme. FIFTH AVENUE IHOLLANI) CHRISTIAN 1 REFORMED CHURCH. C FIFTH AVENEF, NEAR (;RANI)VII.IE AVENTE..:... In the summer of i886 the Consistory of the Spring Street Holland Christian Reformed Church built a house of worship at the above mentioned point and held regular Sabbath services and catechetical exercises there. The professors and students of their denominational Theological Seminary, located here, assisted the Rev. J. H. Vos in supplying this part of his parish with preaching. The enterprise and chapel services were so successful that it was deemed wise to organize the seventy families of this congregation as a church, which was done March 8, i887, under the above name, the Revs. J. H. Vos and L. J. Hulst, of this city, presiding. The following were chosen to constitute the SECOND STREET M.. UCH-:SEE.. A<- E 312. SECOND STREET I1. E. (CIURCH —SEF PAGE 312. with seventeen communicants and nineteen baptized members. After Mr. De Baun's visit of one month, the Rev. John C. Voorhis, of Englewood, New Jersey, came and preached a few Sundays in the same place. Next they occupied Luce's Hall, on Monroe street, and enjoyed the help of the Rev. John Westerveld, of New York, who was with them at the formal constitution of the new church. The Consistory and Board of Trustees then elected were: Elders-B. DeGraaf, Sr., and A. J. Welmers. Deacons-J. C. Van Heulen and L. Drukker. A call CHURCHES-IHOLLAND CHRISTIAN AND TRUE REFORMED. 339 Consistory and Board of Trustees: Elders -John W. ten Haaf and Wm. Van Houw for the term of two years, and Sietse Bos and Harm Plesscher for one year; DeaconsHero Til and Wm. Olthouse for two years, and Roelof Gust and Jacob Groendyk for one year. The congregation now reports I8o families, i85 members, and, including all who belong to the parish, 770 souls. A parsonage adjoining the church at the close of 1887 was occupied by their own pastor, the ization with seventy members and 270 parishioners dismissed from the mother church for this purpose. The Consistory and Board of Trustees then chosen, are: Elders-H. Van der Ark, H. Buter, J. W. Dykstra. Deacons -J. Loutenbach, J. Mazereuw, D. Bouwnman. The present indebtedness is $i,6oo, but their outlook for growth is hopeful. The Rev. G. Broene entered upon the first pastorate of this church October I5, 1889. The latest statistics are: forty-eight families, sixty-seven members, and 283 parishioners. TIRUE REFORMED CHURCH. IN LEPI''i(;.S HALL., IVON STREET. In I867 came to Grand Rapids directly from the Netherlands, Klaas Smit, the founder of this branch of the church. He was at first, and until I873, identified with the Second Reformed church on Bostwick street, but, not satisfied with the denomination, he withdrew, and about four years later was followed by a few others, and many from the Holland Christian Reformed Church on Spring street. As Mr. Smit had been an 'exhorter" in the old country, he was capable of leading this congregation, which then and for some years exceeded the number of 200. Regular Sunday services and catechising of the children (now forty), on that day, and of adults on a week-day evening, have been maintained all these years witll Mr. Smit as their preacher and acting pastor. But no organization was formed before March, 1887, when the Rev. E. L. Meinders and Elder A. Van Drunen, of South Holland, Ill., came )by invitation and constituted a church with fifty-five members. The name above given was adopted, and, though for many years borne and later discarded by the Holland Christian Reformed denomination, is now the legal title of only this and the Rev. Meinder's church at South Holland. The organization was completed by the election of K. Smit and Jacob Gouwe as Elders, and A. Smnilde and I. Kol as Deacons. Their aged leader remains their minister in every part of the pastoral office except the administration of the holy sacraments, for which they rely upon the semiannual visits of the Rev. Meinders. The number of parishioners is about 00oo at present, about one-half of the flock having recently transferred their relations to the New Holland Church on Turner street, near OoY ME.MORIt lAI. 1. 1 l'. ( I' 1( -- S1' Il'.;I,:P S 312- X. Rev. WV. R. Smidt, who accepted their call while in charge of a church in the Netherlands, and was installed December 23, i887. Their property is valued at $6,ooo. The increase of the congregation, chiefly by immigration, has been such that in the winter of I888-89 a gallery was built on three sides to furnish additional sittings, and in June it was resolved to enlarge the house of worship by an addition of 40 by 36 feet, which was dedicated September 26, and adds $I,oo000 to the value of their property. The present seating capacity is 600. CROSB1 STREET HO()lAND CHRISTIAN REFORMED1) CHURCH. CORNER OF IWEST AND CROSBV STREETS. The origin of this church was stated in the history of its parent church on Alpine avenue. On the 26th of May, I889, the mission became independent through organ 340 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Leonard street. But the remainder are competent to sustain this work, their only expense being $300 per annum for the rent of the hall, and something for the care of their poor, whom they always wholly support. The officiating minister has performed his part as "a labor of love" gratuitously, his livelihood being gained by the toil of six days per week in his blacksmith shop, connected with his residence at 35 North Division street. ST. ANDREW'S-ROMAN CATHOLIC. SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SHELDON AND MAPLE STREETS. A Roman Catholic Mission was located by the Rev. Frederic Baraga, in June, i833, on the west bank of the river. Ere this the Rev. Gabriel Richard and other priests from Detroit had visited the Indian villages of this section, but Father Baraga, Bishop of Marquette from I853 to i868, was sent by Bishop Fenwick of Cincinnati to establish a permanent mission among the mixed population of that period. It then consisted of the Indian village of the Ottawa tribe, situated about where the L. S. & M. S. round-house now stands, a few trappers, and a score or two of early settlers. The missionary selected a tract of about sixty-five acres on the west bank of Grand River, opposite the head of Island No. 4 (in later maps No. 3), and there erected a frame b\iilding for a chapel, and just north of it a small dwelling. Soon after, a building for church uses was secured on the east side. It stood a short distance above the present site of the Barnard House, near Waterloo street. It was a large frame building, with dormer windows, was originally painted with yellow ochre, and figured prominently in the initiatory efforts of religious bodies. This was begun on the west side, moved across on the ice, and transferred to Father Baraga, but remained his only a year, after which services were held in a rude structure which he, with the assistance of some Indians, built on the west side. In the fall of I8,34 he was assisted as rector of, St. Andrew's parish, etstablished in June, 1833, by the Rev. Andrdas Viszoczky-who succeeded him in i835-a Hungarian, whose eminently useful career was here ended by his death, January 2, I853, at the age of 55. In i837 Louis Campau built a church for St. Andrew's parish on the southwest corner of Monroe and Division streets, which was never deeded to the Bishop; yet the congregation worshiped there for some time. Later the pastor and flock were sheltered by the chapel of the Indian village, or a small, red school house on Division street, between Bronson and Bridge streets, or in private dwellings; but in I847 the. Bishop sold for $4,000 the lands years before granted by the Government for the benefit of the mission, and out of this fund Father Viszoczky bought the Richard Godfroy house and grounds on the southeast corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets, now occupied by the Aldrich-Godfrey-White block. The price was $I,5oo. There a stone church was built in I849 by Robert Hilton, C. B. White, William C. Davidson and Ebenezer Anderson, the corner-stone being laid June I 0. The house upon the lot became the priest's residence, and this was destroyed at 3 A. M., January 14, I85o, by a fire that proved most disastrous, for the records of the parish perished in the flames, the unfinished church building, which was dedicated by the Rt. Rev. Peter Paul Lefevre, August I I,-I850, was somewhat damaged, and, saddest of all, the aged mother and the sister of Father Kilroy, assistant priest, were consumed with the house, Father Viszoczky and a male servant having saved their lives only by jumping out of the second story. About i,86o baptisms had been registered in the books thus lost. From that date for several months their worship was conducted in the largest room of Maxime Ringuette's house, later known as the Grand River House, on Waterloo street, and this hospitality generously offered by the owner included a temporary shelter for'the rector. The succession of pastors from that time has been as follows: The Revs. Edward Van Panmmel, rector, April i853, to June, I857; F. J. Van Erp, rector, September, I857, to August, I859, and associated with him November, I857 to February, i858, the Rev. H. Rievers, and January, I858, to February, I859, H, Quigley, D. D.; F. X. Pourrot,. rector, February, i859,. to July, I86o; Thomas Brady, rector, July, I86o, to January, 1862; Joseph Kindikens, rector, January 17, I862, to December, i865; B. J. Wermers, rector, December 27, I865, to October, I868; James C. Pulcher, rector, October 6, i868, to spring of I872, when he built and became pastor of St. James' Church, on the west side; P J. McManus, A\ i'~~ H A::::d CHI IU(-CHES- ST. ANDREW S CATHEI)RAI — BISHOP RICHTER. 341 rector, June, I872, until April 22, 1883, when St. Andrew's became the Cathedral of the then consecrated Bishop of the Diocese of Grand Rapids. It appears that the following have also been assistants: Fathers Pierce in I837; Mills, I837-38; Boehm, 1838-39; Lang, I839, -; Kilroy, I847-50; DeKuninck, i850-53; Montard, 1857-58. The present Diocese was created May I9, 1882, by brief of Pope Leo XIII, and embraces that part of the Southern Peninsula of Michigan lying north of the south boundaries of Ottawa, Kent, Montcalm, Gratiot and Saginaw counties, and west of the east boundaries of Saginaw and Bay counties. The first Bishop of this Diocese is the Rt. Rev. Henry Joseph Richter, who was promoted to his present office by Papal brief dated January 30, 1883, and consecrated April 22 of that Nyear. Father McManus remained at the cathedral until his death from an accident, December 29, i885. Other assistants at St. Andrew's were the Rev. J. F. Lovett from the fall of i883 to that of i884; the Very Rev. C. J. Roche, October, 1884, to September, i887; the Rev. John Sanson, March 17, I886, to February, i888; the Rev. H. Frencken, appointed September, 1887, who now has charge of St. Joseph's (Holland) Church; at present, the Rev. Joseph Benning, appointed in February, i888; the Rev. Thomas L. Whalen, appointed June 24, 1884; and the Rev. John A. Schmitt, appointed in August, 1889. The fine church bell was pulrchased during Father \Vermer's incumbency. In the winter of I872-73 the grounds on Monroe street were sold to the late Moses V. Aldrich for $56,ooo, and the stone of the old church was used for the foundations of the present edifice. Before this Father McManus had begun the erection of the $15,000 school house opposite the Cathedral, whose chapel on the second floor was blessed by Bishop Borgess, March 27, I874, when the old house was vacated, and here the services were held until the dedication of the new church by the same Bishop, December 19, I876. This fine house of worship and its furniture cost $50,000. It has a seating capacity of 938 in the body of the church and 200 in the gallery. A few years since the residence was bought just south of the parochial school for the nine teachers-Sisters of Charity -who now instruct 446 pupils. More recently two lots were secured just south of the church, upon which the Episcopal residence, costing $5,oo000, is built. The aggregate value of this church property is about $I10,000. From time to time large numbers of its parishioners have been dismissed to organize other congregations, leaving St. Andrew's present parish bounds as follows: All of this city East of Grand River and south of the Fifth ward, or Fairbanks street, the north end of the city having been set off in August, I888, to constitute St Alphonsus parish; and yet the mother church retains from 3,500 to 4,000 "practical Catholic adults and Catholic children." THE RT. REV. HENRY JOSEPH RICHTER was born on the 9th of April, I838, at Neuen Kirchen, in the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg. After studying in the local schools and under a private teacher, he came to the United States in 1854, and entered St. Paul's school in Cincinnati in the succeeding year. This was followed by five years of steady application in St. Xavier's, St. Thomas at Bardstown, and Mount St. Mary's College in Cincinnati. He went to Rome in I86o, entering the American College, and, winning his Doctor's cap in i865, was ordained on the ioth of June by Cardinal Patrizi. Returning to Cincinnati in October, he filled the chair of Dogma, Philosophy and Liturgy, in Mount St. Mary's Seminary, and a year later was made Vice-President of that institution. In I870 he founded the church of St. Laurence and made it a thriving parish; was Chaplain to the Sisters of Charity at Mount St. Vincent's Academy, and a member of the Archbishop's Council, and one of the Committee of Investigation of the Diocese. When His Holiness, Pope Leo XIII, established the Diocese of Grand Rapids on the i9th of May, I882, the Rev. Dr. Richter was selected for the new See. He was consecrated and enthroned in St. Andrew's, Grand Rapids, on the 22d of April, I883, by the Most Rev. William Henry Elder, of Cincinnati. At the beginning of his administration Bishop Richter found thirty-six Priests, thirty-three churches with resident pastors, and seventeen parochial schools with 2,867 pupils, out of a population of 50,000 Catholics. At present there are in his Diocese seventy-five Priests, fifty-six churches with resident 342 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPII)S. pastors, and thirty-eight schools with 7,244 pupils. At his request the Franciscan Fathers, the Fathers of the Holy Ghost and of the Most Holy Redeemer, have established houses in the Diocese. Various new charitable institutions have been established, and substantial churches have been built and are in the course of erection in different parts of the Diocese. Having taken part in the Second Provincial Council of Cincinnati, in I882, as one of the secretaries, he assisted as Bishop at the Third Plenary Council of Baltimore, in I884. In the spring of 1885 he made his first official visit at Rome, and attended the Provincial Council of Cincinnati in i889. Bishop Richter is of a very modest, quiet and retiring disposition. He has always had the reputation of being a very learned and able theologian. A man of principle and energy in the discharge of his duty, he always seeks the most unostentatious manner of performing it. Combining an unusual activity with such high talents, he labors with untiring zeal at the important work entrusted to his care. ST. MARY'S CHURCH-ROMAN CATHOLIC. NORTHWEST CORNER OF FIRST AND TURNER STREETS. This parish, set off from St. Andrew's in I856, and formally organized in August, I857, wlth thirty-three members, and now including about i,ooo confirmed members, embraces the entire Roman Catholic German population of the city, and about fifteen families living outside. In I857 a number of lots were bought on First Street, between Turner and Broadway, upon which they erected a frame house of worship on the site of the present parsonage. Their first Rector was the Rev. Maurice Marco, who came in October, i857, and remained until July, i86i. His successors until the present time have been: The Revs. Ferdinand Allgayer, from September, i86I, till February, i864; LaurentiusSchreiner, from February,:864, till April I864; Henry Berhorst, from December, i864, till May, I870; John George Ehrenstrasser, froin June, I870, to December, i886, and the present pastor, the Rev. Joseph Schwick, since March, I887. The original thirty-three members were J. Tinkeler, T. Berles, L. Martin, T. Wurzburg, F. Keiser, WVm. Hake, F. Vogt, S. Kleiber, F. Eikhof, A. Theile, Wm. Koch, John Hake, K. Wurzburg, F. Wurzburg, T. Rusche, N. Arlet, Wm. Tennes, N. Alt, Joseph Clemens, Joseph Berles, B. Orth, T. Scheiren, H. Hauser, M. Stange, John Grune, Conrad Kleiber, M. Backer, C. Schenkelberg, G. Kunnen, K. Bruer, John Schmidt, F. Milenbring, John Bock. The immigration of Germans to our city was quite large at an early day, and this church became very strrng in numbers. In I863 it opened its parochial school with eighteen scholars, and in I873 laid the corner-stone of its large brick edifice, which was consecrated in October, i874, by the Rt. Rev. Caspar W. Borgess, then Bishop of this Diocese. This house of worship has a seating capacity of 600. In August, I884, the building of the spire was begun, which was completed during the following winter, and the edifice, furnished, is now valued at $50,ooo. The old church building was moved to the corner of Broadway and converted into a church school, which has grown into a strong institution, being now taught by three Sisters de Notre Dame, who came August 6, i866, from Milwaukee, Wis., and occupied the Sisters' House bought for them in May of that year for $1,125. It is situated on Broadway, north of the school. The church also owns a house and lot on Turner street, next north of its house of worship. The Rev. Father Ehrenstrasser, who built the present church, in I882 bought seventeen acres of ground situated on West Leonard street, opposite Greenwood Cemetery, and gave the same to his parish for a cemetery. It was consecrated according to the ritual in April, i882, under the name of Mt. Calvary, and is now, with its many improvements, and by reason of its natura advantages, a beautiful "God's acre." Here amidst the graves of hundreds of those who loved him, lie the remains of Father Ehrenstrasser, whose death on Dec. 6, i886, was deeply lamented by his flock, who esteemed and loved him as a good and faithful Priest. He was born at Innsbruck, Austria, July 14, 1835, ordained July 25, I859, became assistant Priest in Anyath, Tyrol, till I864, and after spending six months in the American College in Louvain, Belgium, he came to this country. Here he was Rector of St. Mary's and St. Joseph's churches of Adrian, Mich., and from there came to St. Mary's in Grand Rapids to serve the remaining years of his life. The church is now in a flourishing condition, having a membership of about i,ooo. CHURCHES-ST. MARY'S-ST. JAMES'-ST. ADELBERT'S. 343 Its property is worth no less than $60,ooo, and its annual income is about $3,700, which exceeds its expenditures and leaves the parish without debt. The present officers are: Fr. Egon Pulte, Charles Schmidt, Anthony Brogger and Andrew Batt. The names of its societies are: St. Joseph's Sodality, Huber Weiden, President; Men's Sodality, Clemens Schenkelberg, President; Ladies' Society, Mrs. Elizabeth Theile, President; Young Ladies' Society, Miss Alice Hickey, President. ST. JAMES' CHURCH-ROMAN CATHOLIC. WEST BRIDGE STREET, OPPOSITE STRAIGHT,. This parish, including all who are of the Roman Catholic faith on the west side of the river, excepting its German and Polish adherents, and the English speaking people of Walker, Tallmadge and Alpine townships, was organized in I872, with about I50 families that had belonged to the mother church, St. Andrew's. In I867 a number of lots were purchased, which have gradually been covered with the elegant buildings erected by this flourishing church. Their first pastor, an energetic and popular rector, enjoyed the privilege of building their house of worship, whose corner-stone was laid July 20, i870, the dedication with imposing ceremonies following in July, I872. This fine edifice seats about 750 persons, and has cost, completely furnished, some $45,000. A pastoral residence was added in I885, situlated on a lot adjoining the church on the east side, at a cost of $3,200. The following year the parochial school, a solid brick building, capable of accommodating 300 pupils, was erected just west of the church, at an expense of $3,500. This institution is tinder the direct supervision of the pastor, and is taught by four religious Sisters de Notre Dame, of Milwaukee, Wis., for whom a home was built in T888, west of the school, at a cost of $3,000. It is a solid brick building, 28 by 54 feet, and two stories high. The average attendance of scholars is 225. Father Pulcher had the satisfaction of successful leadership in all these improvements, whose property value is estimated at $69,200, upon which there is a debt of $11,900oo. Though absent from this charge from 1876 until January, i88I, during which time the Rev. G. Limpens was its rector, it will be observed that all the aforementioned steps of progress were taken during the ministry and administration of the Rev. James C. Pulcher, now in charge, and without ministerial assistant. In justice to Father Limpens, it must be stated that his poor health was a serious hindrance to his work ST. JAMES' CHURCH-BUILT IN 1870-72. during the years he ministered to this parish. The ordinary income for the year is $3,000, which is raised by its 300 families, 8( v persons of whom are communicants, the number of adherents being about i,6oo, including the membership. About one-third of them reside in the rural part of the parish. ST. AI)ELBERT'S CHURCH-ROMAN CATHOLIC. NORTHEAST C~ORNER OF FOURTH AND DAVIS STREETS. This parish includes all the Polish population of this faith, which is practically all of this nationality now in our city, to which there is an average annual accession of some thirty families. In i88o a meeting was held by this people in the school house of St. Mary's, at which Albert S. Damskey, Anton Stiller and Thomas Kolozinski were commissioned to visit the Rt. Rev. Bishop Borgess, of Detroit, and obtain authority to organize and build a Polish church, its name to be the St. Adelbertus Church. The 344 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Episcopal approval granted, the organization was effected with fifty charter members, and A. Stiller, Albert Andrezejewski and Frank Czerwinski were elected as officers. They worshiped in St. Mary's Church until the spring of I882; meanwhile an efficient building committee urged forward the erection of their own edifice, whose corner-stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies in June, i88I, by Father J. G. Ehrenstrasser, of St. Mary's, and Father Gutski, of Milwaukee, and it was dedicated in the spring of I882, by the Rev. 0. Vincents Barzynski, of Chicago. This house of worship was 45 by 90 feet, and capable of seating about 400. The membership has now grown to the number of I,oo000, the parish includes 1,500 souls, and the addition of property and facilities for church work has kept pace with this numerical increase. Their entire property, valued at $25,000, consists of four lots upon which are grouped the church, parsonage, two school houses and Sisters' house. The school was opened in i884, and has now as teachers four Sisters of the St. Franciscan Order, with 250 scholars. The annual revenues of the church are about $4,000, and it has no debt, not even after the expenditure of $5,000 upon the enlargement of the edifice, which doubles the seating capacity and gives it rank with some of the finest church buildings of the city. This addition of 35 by 60 feet, and remodeling of the church, were completed in December, I887, and its formal consecration took place January i, i888, the Rt. Rev. Bishop Richter of Grand Rapids conducting the ceremonies, assisted by Father 0. V. Barzynski, of Chicago. The list of pastors who have served this charge is short, to-wit: The Revs. T. Casimir Jablonowski from April, I883, to/February, 1884; Marion Matkowski, February, i884 to March, i886, and Simon Ponganis, the present incumbent, since March, I886. The Board of Trustees are: Philipp Banaszewiez, Leon Centilli, Peter Swiontek, Anton Ciesleweiz and John Kuzniak. The church has two Ladies' Societies and the following benevolent associations: St. Adelbert's, organized in I873, President, Thomas Kolozinski; St. Hyacinth, organized in i886, President, Michael Kowalski, and the St. Casimir Young Men's Society, organized in I885, President, Valentine Szkuta. It owns no cemetery, but buries its dead in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. the con secrated ground belonging to St. Mary's parish. ST. JOSEPH'S CHURCH-ROMAN CATHOLIC. R.'MSEV STREET.I', NEAR BU-CHANAN. This has a Belgian and Holland constituency, and was organized in the summer of I887, with some eighty families as parishioners. The corner-stone of the church was laid Sept. I4, I887. It has a temporary house of worship, designed for a church school. It is a two-story building, 42 by 74 feet, the lower story containing two school rooms, and apartments for teachers. The formal consecration took place Feb. I 0, 889. The Rev. H. Frencken is its pastor. ST. ALPHONSUS CHURCH-ROMAN CATHOLIC. EAST.EONARI), BETWEEN REED STRE~ET AND COTll AVENUE. At the request of Bishop Richter, made of the Superior General of Rome, the order of the Holy Redeemer was introduced in his Diocese, and its representatives placed in charge of this new parish, created in August, i888. The Rev. Theodore Lamy was appointed by his Superior August 21, I888, came to his new field on the 23d, and was joined one week later by the Rev. Terence Clarke. Their parish includes all of the East side north of Fairbanks street, whose Catholic families now number I6o, to which sixty residing in the country must be added. Of these 600 are adult communicants, and I75 Sunday school scholars. The present grounds were forthwith bought, and preparations made to build. Sept. 2, the first service was held in one of the large rooms of the unfinished Orphan Asylum on adjoining grounds. Subscription cards then issued have already secured nearly $3,000. Patrick Finn's offer of the use of his hall on Plainfield avenue was gratefully accepted, and from Sept. i6, i888, until the occupancy of the present chapel, the congregation worshiped there. In October the corner-stone was laid of this parochial school house. It is I Io by 54 feet, the upper story of which is a chapel, blessed and occupied Jan. 6, I889. The cost of this building, unfinished, is $9,400. THE SALVATION ARMY. The Salvation Army came to this city in November, 1883, and rented a room on Pearl street until the spring ot i887, when C HUIRCHES-SALVATION ARMY-SPI RITUALISTS. 3 t15 they removed to a building in \Waterloo street, which had for many years been used for a Variety Theatre, and which they now occupy. The first party that came to Grand Rapids consisted of one male and three female officers, and in their hands the beneficial results of their work among the lower classes of citizens was very apparent. W\hen, in the early history of their work here, they created a great sensation and were obnoxious to multitudes and greatly annoyed by them, many of the leading evangelical ministers of the city publicly defended them, and appealed effectively to the citv authorities in their behalf. James Lowe. our townsman, has from the day of their coming, and even before, been to them a firm, brave and most generous friend and counselor. often wielding his pen in their defense through the citv press. The following statistics were compiled by him, with his inferences therefrom: An examination of the records of the Police Court showed that the number of persons arrested for being drunk on our streets was, in iS8o, 701: in 188X, 728: in I882, 1,104, and in I883, 1,25(-increasing at an average rate of 20 per cent. per annum. In 1884, the first year of the Army's work here, the number of such arrests fell to 894, a decrease of 30 per cent., and in 1885 to 805, a further decrease of io per cent., though the population increased at the rate of 20 per cent. per annum. Their noisy and demlonstrative street processions wvere objectionable to some of our citizens, and parties of them were several times arrested an(4 inl)risoned for persisting in them. Btut a case was appealed to the Supreme Court in 1886, and a decision was given at Lansing that they had a perfect right under our National-Constittution to make these parades. since which they have been allowed to hold them without let or hindrance. The ailm of the Army is to reach and reform the classes that are outside and beyond the influence of the churches, and their modes of operation are devised to this end. In the early part of i888 the Army opened a home on the corner of Pine and Second streets, for the rescue and reclamation of fallen women, which is under the management of two female officers. This work has not been without success, but it has not been in operation lon,,- enough, or its object sufficiently known among the class for whose benefit it is intended, to show a great result..) ITH I SPI RITUAI,ISTS. KI.NNI'DI S I.LOCK, WVATERlt.( STREET. Soon after the occurrences at Hydesville, near Rochester, N. Y., in I849, popularly known as the "Rochester rappings," from which Modern Spiritualism took its rise, a few people in Grand Rapids began to hold meetings for investigating the then novel phenomena. "-Circles," or "seances," became frequent, and occasionally a teacher of the new faith came along, and there would be a series of lectures-at first in Concert Hall, then in Luce's, Mills & Clancy's, or Collins Hall, or later in Squier's Opera House. Abotut I862 an association of Spiritiualists and ' liberal thinkers " was formed, tinder the name of Religio-Philosophical Society. Of this, in i865, \Vright L. Coffinberry was President, and during several years Harry H. Ives was prominent in the management. Under various names and organizations, advocates of this faith have since kept tip meetings, with some degree of regutlarity, but not without intermissions froin occasional apathy and lack of funds for active work. Henry W. Boozer, for thirty-five years an earnest student of Spiritualism, from the beginning has taken steady interest in their efforts. Among visiting, lecturers in the earlier steps of the movement are remembered S. B. Brittan, Mrs. M. J. Kutz. Selden E. Finney, Moses Hull, A. 13. Whiting. Belle Scougal and Mrs. T. W. Parry; and among local "mediiums," or clairvoyants, Mrs. Sarah Graves, Mrs. Mary K. Boozer, Mrs. M. J. Squiers, and others. The "First Society of Spiritulalists of Grand Rapids" wvas organized March 30, i868, with Ira Jones p)residing, Ira G. Tompkins, Secretary, and John Ball, H. H. Ives, John Butitler. E. \V. Barns, Mrs. E. Morey and others, as Directors. A second society was afterward formed, and then. June 29, i879, the two were iunited ilndler the name of "The Spiritual and Liberal Association of Grand Rapids" of this Mrs. Sarah Graves was one of the Trustees. They held meetings at Good Temlplars' Hall, on Pearl street. in i88 — 83; Dr. \V. 0. Knowles, President. The Science Hall Lectture Association was organized in October, 1884, for "promoting and diffusing a knowledge of the philosophy and phenomena of Spirittualism." Its lectures were held in Science Hall, at 59- 6 Canal street, tinder the management of Joseph H. Tompkins, H. H. 346 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Ives, V. K. WVheeler, and a few others; speakers generally being secure(d from abroad. Another association called "The Conversational," since better known as tle '"Conference Meeting,' was forled at No.60 Monroe street, February 25, i886, where its stated meetings are still held, )v Mrs. Jullia A. Stowe, in Independence Hall. A second Religio-lPhilosophical Society was organize(l May 4, i888 J. B. Josselyn, President; meeting first at 74 \Vaterloo street and later at Good Templars' Hall on South Division street. "'The Spiritual Union of Grand Rapids'' is the latest society in this field, organized April 26, I889, for "scientific, spiritual and intellectual culture," and numbering forty or more active members. Its meetings are held in Kennedy's Block, corner of W\aterloo and Louis streets. Prominent among active workers in this faith are L. V. Moulton, C. C. Howell, Charles A. Andruls \W. E. Reid, L. H. Austin, Mrs. C. W\inch, Mrs. John Lindsey, witll many others, besides those hereinbefore mentioned. The Spiritualists estimate somle 400 adherents and in all 3,000 believers of their faith among the city residents. The Michigan State Association of Spiritualists was organized in Grand Rapids, by articles filed June 6. 1884; Sanmuel Marvin and Sarah Graves, of this city, being among its officers. Its annual meetings are held here. E W 1) N1n)R(; IAN. "TiHl NEW\\ ('ilK('." ('()I NI..Vt)N ANI) NORTH'I' \ ISI(N S'RI IIs. In 1847 the Hon. Lucius Lyon, a man of rare ability and of much prominence in the early history of Michigan, awakened such an interest here in the w ritings of Emanuel Swedenborg and the doctrines of the New Church, as to lead to the forination of a New Church association, at a meeting, in the Court House, Jan. I8, I849. The articles adopted were signed by about seventyfive persons, and eight days later Chas. Shepard was chosen President, Welcome Yale, Vice President, and A. C. WVestlake, Secretary and Treasurer. At a meeting April 4, 1849, George Coggeshall, W. L. Coffinberry and Robert Hilton were appointed a soliciting committee; and Robert Hilton, Robert I. Shoemaker and David Burnett, a building committee. June 1I, I849. the first Trustees were elected, as follows: Chas. Shepard, Robert Hilton, Robert I. Shoemaker, George Coggeshall, Harry Dean. August 27, I849, a constitu tion was adopted, and in I850 the Hon. Lucius Lyon, then of Detroit, gave them the present church site, I69 by 50 feet. Then io6 persons sublscribed 1,616.90. Building was commenced Oct. 7. I85o, and the church completed and opened for service April 4, I852. Henry W\eller, an Englishman of brief residence here, an able and interesting, speaker, who had been emp)loyed as minister since April 30, I850, was the means of building liup the church until his last year of service, when lie was the means of nearly breaking tup) the society, througli an assertion of claims as a teacher, which alarmed and dispersed the congregation. A few remnained and suspende(l Mr. WVeller, and reported lis conduct to tlie next Annual Convocation of New Church Societies, by which he was unanimously deposed, Feb. 22, I853. The effect was such as to slispend activity until 1858-59. during which the late James Miller, a layman in the church, conducted services, and in i86I -— 62 the Rev. George N. Smnith was pastor, but the society was too weak to support a mninister, and after this enjoye(l only occasional services, a legal existence being maintained to hold the property. TIhe present Trustees are Charles Shepard, I yman 1D. Norris, Jacob O()intls, Robert I. Shoemaker and George XV. Thayer. Officers —Chas. Shepard, President; Mark Norris, Vice-President; George \V. Thayer, Secretary and Treasurer. The present membership is twenty, owning a l)ropertv valued at SI5,000 or more. They have ex)enlded about $1,200 in refitting the building for the resumption of worship and active church life, which was begun Feb. 17, I889, the Rev. George H. Dole having then entered upon his pastorate of the society. The sittings number 125, are free, and there is room for seventy-five additional seats. The parish includes about thirty persons, and the Stunday school enrolls fifteen scholars. Of the original seventy-five members, the following still live in the city, and adhere to the society: Mrs. E. W. Sligh, Dr. Chas. Shepard, Mr. and Mrs. \V. N. Cook, Miss Lucretia Lyon, Robert I. Shoemaker, C. P. Calkins, BLillius Stocking, George iM. Barker, and Mrs. James Miller. This house of worship, so little occupied by) the owners, was leased for manv years (4H JI RCH FS-SWVEIDEINBORG IAN ---1NITAR IAN. 4:U47 to different cllhurches. The Second Congregational Church, under the Rev. James Ballard, its founder and pastor, made it their home from 1852 to 1856, when it disbanded. Here the Westminster Presbyterian Church was organized in i86I, and( housed until I865. Next the Christian Reformed was there formed Nov. 30, 1870, and sheltered till early in I872. February 26, i872, a Free WVill Baptist Church was here organized, but fared like the first mentioned, hence we relate in brief its short history. Its articles of association were signed by Asa Horton, Wnm. H. Jones, John Coy, James Markham, and C. Dexter Cilley. They called a minister from the East, who was at first disposed to accept, but soon disappointed the congregation consisting of twenty-five or thirty members, and an audience of 150 to 200. A chosen chorus, of which Mrs. Herman A. Toren, then Miss J tulia Kridler, was a member and also a member of the church, served very acceptably. Neighbloring clergymen of their persuasion supplied the pulpit for about a year. but the enterprise languished, and the church finally disbanded, several of the members joining, the Alpine church of same views. Early in 1875, and until Sept. i8, i887, we find the Disciples there, after which the house was vacant until used by the society owning it. For about twenty-three years it was, therefore, a source of income to an inactive society, and witnessed the birtlh of five churches and the death of two of them within its walls. LNITA RIAN CH 'RCH. In tile spring of 1883 there camle to this city from St. Louis, Mo., Mr. and Mrs. C. S. Udell, who in their former place of residence had been most zealous and active mlembers of one of thle leading Unitarian Churches in the land. They found a few of congenial views here, notably Mrs. I.. D. Putnaim, who longed for the enjoymlent of religious services in llarmonv with their liberal views. An inquiry resulted in lliring the Ladies'- Literary Cllub Rooms on lPearl street, where their first meeting was held in October of that year, the Rev. Mr. Forbush, of Detroit. lhaving colme to preach for them. On the Sunday following the Rev. Mr. Conner, of Saginaw, conducted the service, and the Rev. J. T. Sulnderland of Ann Arbor, supplied the tlird Sunday. The audiences were so encouraging as to suggest an effort to sectire a stated supply; accordingly the Rev. Henry Powers, of Manchester, N. H., was engaged for one mnonth, for the sumn of $ioo. The leading supporters of the enterprise, at this time, in addition to the aforementioned, were Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Blodgett, Mr. and Mrs. I). P. Clay, Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Gunn, Mrs. D. M. Benjamin, Mr. George C. Kimball and L. D. Plutnam, and later also Mr. and Mrs. James Blair. The new minister advised that Powers' Opera Houise be rented and a choir and full orchestra engaged as a special attraction to thle services. The consent of the infant society was granted, and, with music costing $1,400 per annum, they occupl)ied thle Opera House for two years, their pastor or stated supply meanwhile preaching what purported to be Unitarian d(octrines. Ite also prevailed on D. M. Benjamin, I). P. Clay, A. W. Vatson, George C. Kimball, \V. S. Guinn, D. A. Blodgett, \Villiam T. Powers, G. N. Brighani and C. S. UJdell. in the spring of i884, to purchase a site on Fullton street, near the corner of Lagrave, for a church edifice. These gentlelllen of ample means unofficially tindertook to pushl this llmatter. Plans and specifications were drawn, ftlnds were solicited, and a considerable sunl was spent in laying tlie foundation walls, which remain tllere until tlis day. Thle project soon fell througil, owing nmainly to dissatisfaction with thleir minister, whichl necessitated his removal. The society thereupon rented thle \V. C. T. U. roonsl on Pearl street, near the river, and kept llp tlle Stunday School, Mr. C. S. Udell acting as Superintendent. For a season they liad no regular services, but in November, i885, engaged the Rev. John 1'. Roberts for one year and held their meetings in thle Hebrew Synagogue. The autdiences thlat liad flocked to the Opera House (lid not retturn; the congregation remained small in numbers. In August, I886, Mr. Roberts accepted a call to Kansas City, since which their congregation has met in thle,Ladies' Literary Cll) Rooms, on Sheldon street, where tlie Rev. Mr. Cook supplied them for three Sundays; but the dwindling interest and attendance reduced theim to suchl feebleness that they held only a morning lay reading service, and no Sundav School, with an occasional missionary, sti)ply from the American Unitarian 348 HISTORY OFI' THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Association. The number of those still attached to the society as reliable supporters does not exceed twenty-five. LIBERAL (UNITARIAN) HOI,LANI) CHURCH. NORTH\VEST CORNER OF EAST RID(;GE AN) 10NIA STRIKEl'TS. Beginning in 1847, and for many years afterward, the Holland immigration to this part of our land and to our city was almost without exception from the Christian Reformed Church in the Netherlands. Later on there was a gradual accession of those who came from the State or Established Church, most of whom were anti-Calvinistic and "liberal." Yet, for want of any congenial organization and of a sufficient number of rationalistic people, nearly all residing here identified themselves with the orthodox Reformed churches of the city. In I875 a combination of the liberal element was agitated, for the time being, but in vain. This movement, however, bore fruit in the formation of a Social Circle, that held weekly religious meetings in the Universalist church. The next step of significance was taken April 12, i885, when seven earnest advocates of their views invited all persons of kindred convictions to meet with them in the same church on the i9th of April. Thus twenty joined them, and it was decided to found a church. A Board of Directors was at once elected, and the Rev. Dr. Kuenen, of Leiden, Holland, was, by correspondence, requested to select a minister for them. Meanwhile lay preaching by some of the members kept up the regular services, and the attendance increased throughout the summer, the audiences being from 200 to 300 during August. Solicitation for the support of a pastor was rewarded, with the result at once communicated to Prof. Kuenen, that they could promise a salary of at least $i,ooo. The Sunday school, organized in the spring, grew to an attendance of fifty. On the ist of September they were cheered by Dr. Kuenen's cablegram informing them that the Rev. F. W. N. Hugenholtz, of Santpoort, a pastor and editor of a religious weekly, had accepted their call and would soon embark for America. He was introduced to his congregation by the Rev. Charles Fluhrer, Dec. 6, and preached his first sermon in the church where all their meetings had been held. During the first week of January, I886, a constitution and creed were adopted, which are cf a pronounced Unitarian type. Their first year was eventful and prosperous, the membership increased to 253, and their commodious and pleasant edifice was built at a cost of $7,500, and dedicated Dec. 22, I886. Aid was received froln friends in the old coulntry, but notably from the General Unitarian Conference held in the summer of that year at Saratoga, N. Y., to which their pastor personally appealed, with such success that the sum of $i,ooo was immeliately collected and placed in his hands. In 1887 Mr. Hugenholtz was formally acknowledged as a Unitarian minister, and his church enrolled as "The First Unitarian Holland Church in the United States." Not long after occupying their own house, a Hamilton Vocalion organ completed the furnishing of the church. January 1I3, I887, their first society, entitled 'Kennis and Kunst" (Science and Art), was formed, whose aim is the literary and scientific education and general culture of its mnembers, now numbering I o7, the gratuitous instruction of an evening school during the winter, and other laudable work In I888 the society of Willing Workers began its useful career, having the following four departments: social, educational, missionarv and charitable. Some of its first work was the opening of a sewing school, a summer school for Holland instructions, an English school for recent immigrants, and a gymnasium for boys. The present strength of the congregation appears from the statistics: The Sunday school enrolls 150o scholars, the church 350 members, and the parish includes I47 families; the annual revenues amount to $2,500, and there is no debt. The 500 seats are free, but it is made obligatory upon all members to contribute for the support of the congregation, unless excused. The first official Board was composed of P. Van Wanrooy, President; P. H. Eleveld, Secretary; H. M. Buhrmann, Treasurer; Wm. Brummeler, S. Van der Meulen, J. Gruber, T. Venema. The officers are (1889): H. M. Buhrmann, President; E. DeVries, Secretary; M. B. Kimm, Treasurer; S. Van der Meulen, J. Gruber, A. J. Ten Kaa, \Wm. Brummeler. The church publishes a Holland monthly, S/emwen uit de Vri)'c Jfollandsche Gemeente, of which the pastor is the editor. It is devoted to the defense and diffusion of liberal ideas, has a good subscription list, and a consider ('It V EGI-IRS - INITED lIE Eli fERN — IJN1VERSALIST. 14 34 able number of copies are, distriIbuted1 gratuiitotisly as a part of its mis-sionary work. InI order to interiest and hoI(d tbeir young peopiet. the evening, Iservice has been conducted in E'nglish since the I7tb of November, i8~9. IN Iil El) liE E Ilil R F'N. The M4 ssionarv Board of this (lenon-iinatiou, witb headquarters at Dayton, 0., sent out the Rev. H-. S. Shaeffer ini I )ecemiber, i88oy, to locate a mission in the soiitheru stiilurl) of (Grand Rapids. H is lalbors coin - inencei D)ecember 15. in the Soiitb Gralnd Rapids School house, near South lDivisionl tre.On Stinday. J aniiar street. v 1(9,tia an organization was efetedwt wet-hee charter niuueibers, amiong Whom are the following": (George K irtlantl, George WV. I )illenback- and Wife, Geiorge NWvkes aiud family., (.eorge Lohiniuan and wife. E'. C. Poole and1 wife, and M~lr. I. J. l'ear. The Stiindlai School wvas George NV. D illenback., S uilerintendent. T1he Infaunt o)rganization is at lpresent aidledl by the 1\1issioniary Bloardl, its first year's esti mated current ex pefses being a-bout >~i'(ooo; buit they, expect sou.~n to erect a. bouse of worshi ip to cost fromn $,o000 to 1IN VERs-AA ST (ii iiRCi-. The fouinder of this societv was tbe 'Rev. 1-i. L. 1-Iavward, wvho caine to this city InI April, 1858, and p~reached: in Liice's Hall on1 Ve ya r. A society wvas then organize(I. buit after his (departuire it was wvithlout a piustr unIl the spring of i862. A t this time the Rev. A. NV. Mason began his past()rate of two years here, during which, then Suinday School was organized. From 1 864 to I 868 110 stated services were held, there bcing only occasional preaching; but tile society,,resolv-ecito 1)rov-ide better equipmlient, lbuilt tile llresenlt edifice ill i68, ail( then secuired tbe Rev. L. J. Fletchier as tileir Ipastor, who remia ined uintil J inie, 1870. His ministry, was successful, anld rendered tile enllargemenlt of tile Ilew building necessary. A formal church organization was effected wvith 125 meillbers, aild tile followiilgr ''Confession. of Faith'' adopted: I. We believe that tile Holy Scriptures of the 01(1 aild New Testaments, coiltain a revelationl of the cilaracter of God, and of the (dut V, jilterest and final *Jestiny of mankind. II. W'e beclievc that there is one God, whose natuire is love, revealed in one Lord Jesus Christ, by Cile Holy Spirit of Grace, swho will finally restore tile whole family, of mankind to holiness and happiness. lit. We believe that holiness anld true happiness are inseparably, connected, and that believers ought to be careful to maintain ordler and practice good works, for these things are good and profitable unto Mnerl. 11he Rev. NV. C. Brooks succeeded Mr. Fletchler ill j tineO, i870, and wvas in turin suicceeded 1wv tile Rev. Ricihiloild Fisk, D. D., In i87:2, I who wvas exceedingly plopular as an I'NIVER'SAIAIST (IlIURCH-1-lI~LT IN i868. eloquenit orator, lbut fled the city in November 184,confessing himself guilty of ui1l1awfuil amours. The preseilt inlctunibent, tile Rev. Chiarles Fluhrer, D. D., entered upon ilis pastorate ill October, 1875, and is liglilly esteeiled by his people. The society ilas graluially attained considerable strength, enlbracing I25 families, I25 memlbers, and 273 Sunday School scholars, and raises ailntially tile sum11 Of $3,000. The central locatioll of its property has ellhanced its value as estillated to tile ilandsome figure of 820,000, uipon whIch there i no incurnibrance. 'lileseating capacityis 700. Charles NW. Garfield Ilas for some vears been the Superintendent of the Sunday Schlool. A large Young People's Club, call the "Fortnightly," W~alter R. Meech, President, and a Ladies' Industrial Band, Mrs. H. M. Reynolds, President, are connected witil tile parish; tile latter ilaving a ''South Branch," of whichl Mrs. NVillianl I. Blakely is President. The cilurch is officered as follows: :t5)(} HISTO()RY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPID'11S. E. A. Treadway, President; James A. Hunt, Clerk, William H. Anderson, Treasurer; Henry R. Naysmith, Henry Spring, William Alden Smith, Christian Bertsch, S. F. Aspinwall, and J. K. V. Agnew, Trustees. GERMAN EVANGElICAL. ZION'S CHURCH. CORNER F. WEST iRII(;E. ANI) ST'RAl(;HT STREETS. This congregation is connected with the '*Evangelical Association of North America," a denomination sometimes designated as the German Methodist Church, because it is Arminian in creed, very similar to the Methodist Episcopal Church in government, and its membership chiefly German or of German descent. In some parts of the land it is popularly known as the "Albright Methodists," the Rev. Jacob Albright, of Pennsylvania, lhaving founded this denomination in i8oo. Its membership has grown to 142,000. The branch in this city owes its origin to the labors of several ministers of thisfaith living near, especially to the influence of the Rev. H. Schuknecht, of Leighton, Allegan county, Michigan, who organized the church, May i, I883, with nineteen members. From this number there were chosen at the time of incorporation: Trustees ---Nicholaus Acher, Jacob L. Holtzman and Josiah Thoman. The congregation worshiped regularly in Koch's Hall on West Bridge street, and enjoyed the ministrations of neighboring clergy of their Association until the Rev. L. V. Soldan was settled as their pastor in April, i884. The building of a house of worship was at once oegun, the corner-stone being laid Aulgust 3, 1884, by the Revs. H. Schneider, of Ionia, and L, Brown, of Caledonia, and on the 19th of October, i884, the people rejoiced in the dedication of an edifice of brick, capa;le of seating 350 worshipers, when their Bishop, Th. Bowman, of Allentown, Pa., conducted the services. When the Rev. N. Wunderlich assumed the pastorate in April, i885, he found the incumbrance of $2,000 a very seriols drawback. His successor, now in charge, the Rev. H. Schneider, who began his labors among them in April, 1887, appealed to the Michigan Conference, and in the spring of I888 that body paid one-half of the debt of $2,000, and loaned the church $500. With sulch relief, the society has nearly paid its indebtedness and steadily grows in numbers. The present membership is sixty, with the same number of Sundav School scholars, of whom N. Acher is Superintendent. The following gentlemen constitute the present Board of Trustees: F. Monike, J. Schatz, N. Acher, N. Greb, Louis Becker. The only property is the church and site, valued at $4,000, and their annual exl)enditures are about $8oo. As far as practicable, the foregoing histories were brought tip to the close of i889, and even later in some instances. Besides the organizations described in this chapter, there are, in this city, a few small religious circles, independent and unorganized, "without a local habitation and( a name." Installed pastors should in every instance be included in the list of their churchofficers, and are generally presiding officers. The Roman Catholics ulsually include in their membership "all practical Catholic adults and Catholic children." The seventeen Reformed churches, with 1 2,790 a(lherents, hold the same standards, and, with two exceptions, worship in tlhe Holland language, and, according to their views of church government and the Act providing therefor, their Elders and D)eacons constitute the Boards of Trustees. All churches that report no Sunday school scholars, instruct their children in parochial schools or catechetical classes. Besides the church edifices proper enuinerated in the accompanying statistical table, there are four mission chapels, which have been described in connection with their respective churches. The Young People's Societies of Christian Endeavor-designated by the initials Y. P. S. C. E.-nine in number, are connected with various churches, have an aggregate membership of 600, and jointly constitute a Christian Endeavor Union, of which the Rev. Thomas G. Smith is President. CHURCHES-TABLE OF STATISTICS. 351 STATISTICAL SUMMARY OF THE CHURCHES. Adventist............. I 70 150 1O0...... 1,000 B ible C hristians............144015............ Children of Zion......1 400. I. 175 250 75 8,000 1,500 Congregational........ 4 4 50(.) 2 1013 3206 1270 6 96,000) 11,000 Disciples............. 1 1 60.. 35 600 400 12,000 it3,000 Episcopalian.......... 5 5 2440( 2 1048 2800 794 151,00 25,35)0 1lebrew.............. I I:3003.2. 3 250 40 20,000 1,500 Lutheran.............. 4 4 '2100 2 915 1890 805 70,000 7,700 Methodist- Free........ I... 150.. 3082...... 500 Methodist-Wesleyan I... 1 1 230 1 150 200 100 1,000...... Methodist Episcopal..... 8...18250 3 1729 580 1855 142,500 16,20(1( Presbyterian.. 4 4......2250.. 674 210 0 5 86, 9,400 Children of Zion....... 400~~~~~~~~~~~7 1720 757 8,000O 18,50( Reformed.............. 6 6 3 940 5 1771 4 177 1 (00 18,750 Christian Reformed. 1 1 500 1 180 400.... 8,000 1,580) Dutch Reformed....0... 00 1 12 270.... 000 60 2,000 Holland Reformed...... I 1 310(0.. 87 1.9 700 1,200 Holland Chris'n Refrm'd 7 5550 06 1810 7154 1420() 84,000 20,20(0 True Reformed........ 150 5 0......I ( 400 Roman Catholic....... 4090 4 7050 9400 1 75 282,000 26,700 Spiritualists........... I.. 30(.... 400.......... 300 Swedenborgian 1.... I I 1 125.. 12( 30 15 15,000 1,000 Unitarian........... 2 42 50(.. 375 525 150 1,0 (00 2,500 United Brethren................ 23 125 100 1...... 1,000 DUniversalist.1......... 1 0 1025 500 275 20,000 3,000 Zion Evangelical..1). 6 1 3 50) 15 60 4,000 800 Total.............67 59 1 34125 27 18812 44236 12172 1,258,700 $169.500 CHAPTER XXXII. BENEVOLENT INSTITUTIONS AND ORGANIZATIONS. BY PETER MOERDYKE, D. D. UNION BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION. A FE w charitable women met December i6, I846, in the "Prospect Hill" school house to form a society for benevolent purposes. Mrs. Charlotte Cuming presided and Mrs. M. E. Church served as Secretary, and it was resolved, "That a society for charitable purposes be formed by ladies of Grand Rapids." Mrs. C. Cuming, Mrs. W. G. Henry and Mrs. J. C. Nelson, having then been appointed to draft a constitution, reported January 5, 1847, when a constitution was adopted, the society taking the name of "The Female Union Charitable Association," and officers were elected. Mrs. C. Cuming became the first President, Mrs. W. G. H-enry the first Secretary, and IMrs. Lucinda Shepard the first Treasurer. The plan was essentially wlhat it is now- - a union of the women of the respective churches, to look after sick and needy persons and relieve them; to clothe children for day and Sunday schools; to encourage among the dependent poor habits of thrift, industry and cleanliness. To do this systematically, the town was divided into districts for visitation, and two visitors assigned to each district. Cases of destitution were reported to the society, to be acted upon as in its discretion seemed best. There was, from the first, a desire to establish a charitable institution, and, with this in view. a lot was purchased on East Ftulton street. Meetings were held at the houses of the members. Each year a union service was held in one of the churches, when the annual reports were read, a sermon preached, and a collection taken to put the society in funds. This custom was continued until the city was too large for such gatherings. In I858 a corporation was formed, known as the Grand Rapids Orphan Asylum Association. The relief work still continued uinder the old name, and on the same plan, one board of managers directing both. The same year a small house was rented on Prospect street, and opened for use, with Mrs. Lucia Johnson, a most excellent and capable woman, as Matron. Soon after, a small house on Lagrave street was purchased and occupied by the society. Here for six years its work was done. But in i86I every heart and hand were given to our sick and suffering soldiers, and Grand Rapids hospitals absorbed all interests. As a consequence, the work of the society lagged, and when, in the fall of 1863, the Matron died from the effect of her services at the camp hospitals, the ladies were obliged to close the little Home. The few children who had been inmates were provided for, and the building was rented, save one room, wlhicll was reserved for the purpose of continuing the general work. In 1866, after the close of the war, interest in the society revived, and in December, 866 the name was again changed to 'Ladies' Union Benevolent Society." The house and lot on Lagrave street were sold; the Fulton street property had already been disposed of, and in I869 the large lot on the corner of College avenue and Lyon street was purchased, but it was decided to postpone building. To meet a demand for some home for the friendless and destitute, a small tenement on Fountain street was rented in the fall of 1870, and opened for the winter with fifteen inmates. In the following May the society was forced to abandon these qularters. In Janilar, 1873, by another change the society became the Union Benevolent Association, with a charter providing for all kinds of benevolent work, and with the privilege of maintaining and managing a home and a hospital' for tle aged, UNION BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION. 353 the infirm, the sick, and the needy. Officers were chosen to serve until the regular election in October. The transfer of property was made and negotiations commenced for a suitable building, which resulted in the purchase of the old Cuming homestead on Bostwick street, near Lyon. The house was put in good repair, and on the first of December, I875, the U. B. A. Home was opened to receive inmates. But the Association was in debt for its building, and carried this burden until i 878, when the whole amount, over $8,000, was personally assumed and discharged by the Hon. Thomas D. Gilbert, the Treasurer of the Association. The Bostwick street property was occupied thirteen years, and during that time the Home had usually as many inmates as it ee meeting was held to consider the bility of erecting a building there. It was voted that a subscription be solicited, tise funds. At the annual meeting in )ber $9,500 was reported pledged; it was ded to push the effort, and $15,000 hav)een raised, it was deemed safe to begin arations for the building. S. J. Osgood, architect, drew plans which were aced, and on September 21, 1883, the ciation advertised for proposals on the dation work. The Hon. Thomas D. GilWilliam Widdicomb and Mrs. Marian Vithey were appointed a building comee, and from that time the work prosed steadily. The amount raised for the tion of the building was $28,096.23, and ost, as completed in February, i886, was $31,707.32. As it neared completion a furnishing committee was appointed, and active for weeks in soliciting donations. Their requests were more than met; almost the entire building \ was furnished by the generous gifts of citizens of Grand Rapids, and the result was a beautifully i equipped institution. The opening was held on February 23, i886, when an informal reception was given to the public, and an opportunity afforded to inspect ^1^ the building. The inmates of the old Home were immediately removed to the new one, and the work of the Association has now been taken up on a larger scale. fully equipped hospital departments opportunities for a kind of work never ible before. and the usefulness of all rtments is largely increased with the ased facilities. February 3, I887, the erty on Bostwick street was sold for )o, thus enabling the Association mateto diminish its debt. In November,, a training school for nurses was estabd in connection with this Association, a two years' course provided for, in h physicians of the city give lectures litously. The second class, consisting ree young women, graduated February 889, at the close of the year in which Bessie Earle, M. D., had been the g Superintendent. In i889 a suitable e for the nurses was built on the grounds nging to the Home, and a considerable N'NION IEN \ OI -NT ASSOCIATION HOME-BO(II,T IN 1885. would accommodate, while the outside relief work grew with astonishing rapidity. Mrs. Hess, who was Matron of this Home for the first half year, was succeeded by Mrs. Lydia Worth, to whose excellent management during eleven years the Association attributes much of its success. The work among the poor was done carefully and systematically, and took on large proportions as the city grew, while the care of the sick and aged was only limited by the capacity of the Home. The growth of the city wvas so rapid, and the demands upon the Association were so constantly increasing, that a new and larger building became necessary. The Association had retained its lot at the corner of College avenue and Lyon street; but it was not until March, 25, i882,that the first formal 31 ;35)4 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. debt was liquidated, chiefly through the liberality of the Hon. Thomas D. Gilbert. The following have served as Presidents: Mrs. C. Cuming, I847; Mrs. J. M. Nelson, 1848; Mrs. C. Cuming, 1849 —I852; Mrs. J. H. Hollister, I853; Mrs. John Potter, 1854; Mrs. E. J. Hammond, 1855-1856; Mrs. Cicero Potter, i857; Mrs. John Potter, I858. From I859 to 1871 inclusive, two Directresses, instead of a President, were annually chosen, but in 1872 the society returned to the old order and elected Mrs. J. Morrison, President. She was succeeded in I873 by Dr. Charles Shepard, who has been annually re-elected ever since. Succeeding Mrs. Worth in 1886, Mrs. Mary A. Manning was Matron, with Mrs. Mary Hatch assistant, and in 1887 Mrs. L. J. Chase assumed this position, assisted by Mrs. Frances A. Peck. She was succeeded in I888 by Mrs. H. S. Kellogg, the present Matron. The Principals of the Training School and nurses in charge of the hospital department, have been Mrs. M. H. Stevenson, Miss Georgia P. Stone and Mrs. L. J. Chase, the present Principal, having sixteen students under her care, while the Matron looks after the welfare of an average of fifty inmates. The officers elected in October, I889, are: President, Charles Shepard, M. D.; Vice President, Mrs. Marian L. Withey; Secretary, Mrs. H. C. Russell, who has served as such since October, i885; Treasurer, Thomas D. Gilbert, continuously in this office since January, I873; Deputy Treasurer, Miss Anna F. Baars. STl. MARK'S HO)Mi: ANI HOSPI'A I.. Near the close of the year 1872, two aged and deserving communicants of St. Mark's Episcopal Church, in failing health, without means or friends able to provide for them, became dependent upon the generosity and care of the ladies of this congregation. The Rev. Samuel Earl), then Rector of St. Mark's parish, with the united efforts of eight ladies of the church, in February, I873, formally established what was then known as a "Church Home." The Board was composed of Mrs. H. VV. Hinsdale, President; Mrs. E. P. Fuller, Vice-President; Miss Louise Miller, Secretary and Treasurer; Mrs. Charlotte Cuming, Mrs. John McConnell, Mrs. P. R. L. Peirce, Mrs. James H. McKee, and Mrs. Ge6rge Kendall. A very touching story is connected with their first Home. In the spring of 1872, Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Fuller had lost their youngest child, Charles Carroll, and when, late in the year, the bereaved parents were one evening discussing the need of a home for the three or four old ladies then cared for by the church at great expense, they were prompted to put a small frame house at No. 60 Kent street, in order, and give the use of it to this charitable work, in memory of their son. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Brooks were placed in charge, and it was opened with prayers, Jan. i, 1873. Here were accommodations for six patients, which was the number received during the first year. In 1875 the increasing appeals for aid made a change for enlarged work necessary, and, through the continued liberality of Mr. and Mrs. Fuller, the then commodious building which is now occupied was secured for four years, the expenses attendant upon the occupancy being the payment of taxes and the insurance. Until June 26, 1876, this Home was controlled and managed exclusively by the organizers, but at this date articles of association were filed, and it became an incorporated' institution, numbering seven Trustees, the Rector of St. Mark's Church to be ex-officio Trustee. These articles were amended under the Rev. G. D. E. Mortimer's regime, and the name was changed to "St. Mark's Home and Hospital," the period of its incorporation being for thirty years. The use of this property was continued under the original contract until the summer of I883, when kind friends secured the ownership, paying for it the sum of $6,000, this having been raised by individual solicitation. The Home has never been in debt. At the close of i888 the report showed that relief had been dispensed, since the beginning, to more than 2,500 persons. These have represented various classes and conditions, irrespective of creed, nationality or color. Less than fifteen per cent. of the beneficiaries have been those of the church responsible for their care. There is an average of some forty persons in the Home; there were admitted during the year I888, 239 patients; dismissed, i99. The cash receipts for the year were $3,333.74: expenditures $2,762.39. Better facilities to meet the increasing demands of our growing city will soon be HOME FOR THE AGED-ST. JOHN'S ASYLUM. 35-) 5 enjoyed when the more commodious and substantial refuge, now in process of erection, at the southwest corner of East Bridge and Bostwick streets, shall be ready for occupancy. This edifice is built of stone and red brick, 133 feet long by So feet wide, two stories high with an attic, and has a capacity of rooms for over ioo persons. The total cost, including the site, will be about $50,00ooo. The dedication of tilis Home, with religious services, will take place on St. Mark's Day, April 25, 1890. The corporation and the city are profoundly grateful' for the munificent bequest of that philanthropic citizen, the late R. E. Butterworth, wllo made this beautiful new building the outgrowth of his liberality; having in addition to the gift of the site, left a bequest of $15,000 designed for the building, and an additional bequest of the store at 39 Canal street, valued at $i5,oo00, to be the foundation of an endowment fund. A memorial bequest of $ I,ooo was also received from the Rev. J. P. Tustin, once Rector of St. Mark's, which is to be used for the chapel, that will bear his name. { The officers for 189o are: the Rev. Campbell Fair, D. D.; C. S. Hazeltine, Secretary and Treasurer; Geo. K. Johnson, M. I)., Samuel Sears, Willard Barnhart, James G. MacBride and P. C. Fuller. ManagersMadams C. H. Granger, President; B. R. Pierce, Secretary; Geo. C. Fitch, Corresponding Secretary; P. R. L. Peirce, Treasurer; Campbell Fair, E. P. Fuller, W. R. Shelby, F. Letellier, A. E. Worden, Joseph Penney, Geo. Kendall, S. P. Wormley, A. J. Bowne, W. F. Bulkley, F. A. Gorhanm, A. Preusser, J. G. Macl3ride, and Miss L. Miller. liM()K F(ORl THE AG;EDi, ()OF THE, LITTLE SIST'ERS OF THE POOR. This institution was established May i, 1884, on West Bridge street, in a small house hired at S25 per month, and a few months later at $4o. May i, 1885, the present beautiful location on South Lafayette street was sectured, and soon after the capacious and substantial edifice, built of brick, in good style, and handsomely furnished and equipped for its purpose, arose upon the site. The old Canton Smith residence was occupied from May i, I885. until the conmpletion of this Hom:e attached thereto. Though only a part of the pro jected building, it will accommodate eighty or ninety inmates. The funds for the Home and for the support of its charitable work are solicited in the city from house to house by the Little Sisters, who go on this errand daily. Any indigent aged person, regardless of religious belief, is received upon proper recommendation. Twenty-two old ladies and thirty- eight old gentlemen enjoyed this care in I889. A delt of $ 5,ooo remains upon the building, which, with ample grounds extending from South Lafayette to South Prospect street, and 250 feet wide, hlas cost al)out $40,00o,ooo. The Home contains an elegant Roman Catholic Chapel. Motller Septime is Superior, and( has five Sisters associated with lher, and this force attend to the housekeeping and all the work and care connected with this charge. STl. JOHN'S ORPHAN ASXUM, - -ROMAN CA T HO 11 IC. By will, the late John Clancy of this city bequeathed to the Bishop of the Diocese of Grand Rapids, the Rt. Rev. Henry Joseph Richter, in trust, the sum of $6o,ooo for the founding of such an institution as this asylum here. During I888 eight acres were purchased on East Leonard street, two and a half of which were sold to St. Alphonsus Church, leaving, after the opening of Reed and Lafayette streets, about five acres of commanding and sightly grounds upon which during that summer a large wing of the projected building was completed and furnished at a cost of $27,000, and dedicated August 25, I889. This contains apartments for the ten Sisters of the Order of St. Dominic now in charge, under Mother Angela as Superior, and pleasant accommodations for i50 orphans of ages varying from two or three to twelve years, forty-nine such inmates now enjoying this home. The Rev. Joseph Benning, of St. Andrew's, has had charge of the; building. Tlhe plan of a structure to cost $75,000 will not be carried out until the demand for more room shall require it, and the balance of the legacy, which is exclusively for construction, will not be drawn upon for the present. KENl' CO()iNT\' II IF; SOC ETV. Its records previouis to 1847 having been lost, it appears from a certificate given by the American Bible Society in New York, that the Kent County Bible Society was recognized July 28, I842, as an Auxiliary, HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAI'IDS. intelligence of its formation having been received on the 7th of that month. Its object is to furnish the Bible to those within its bounds at the lowest possible prices. The Scriptures in a great variety of languages, without note or comment, of King James' version, and in all sorts of editions, are thus sold or given away. The funds are raised by contributions of individuals, mostly of churches, and from sales of books. February 28, i843, the first work mapped out was to supply five neighboring towns by voluntary canvass, the Revs. James Ballard, H. E. Waring and T. Z. R. Jones, each holding himself responsible for an equal share of this work. WV. G. Henry, at whose store the society often met, appears then to have been the Treasurer and Depositary, and the following officers were elected July 20, I 846: President, the Rev. James Ballard; VicePresident, L. R. Atwater; Secretary, the Rev. A. B. Taylor; Treasurer, G. Luther; Executive Committee, E. N. Faxon, G. S. Deane, W. G. Henry, Henry Stone, WIm. Haldane. In October, 1849, six districts in the village were assigned for "exploration," and on Nov. 12, Col. S. F. Butler reported that in his district, north of Bridge street and east of the river, he had "found four persons destitute and unable to purchase a Bible, who were tendered a supply." This is a sample of their work. In the winter of 1853-54 a county canvass was undertaken, and the Rev. E. Prince, of Cascade, was employed as agent and colporteur, at $30 per month, in connection with his, pastoral charge. On the 2oth of April, i865, twelve ladies were appointed as Bible Distributors in the five wards of the city, and it was resolved to establish branch societies in adjoining towns. In May it was also resolved to employ the Rev. John A. Pinches as county missionary at the expense of the parent society, and he reported in I867. In I88o the Rev. Wm. J. Johnston was employed as colporteur, who spent two years in making a thorough canvass of the city and county. In the early history of the society considerable interest was taken in and some aid given to this work by surrounding towns, but this has gradually ceased with the growth of the city, whose churches now bear the whole burden of its support, even when supplying the entire county. W. G. Henry kept the Depository until he resigned May 12, I865, when Henry M. Hinsdill was placed in charge. He was succeeded by Charles W. Eaton in I871. In i882 L. E. Patten was elected Depositary, followed by the present officer, Frank M. Hulswit, who keeps a well assorted stock of Bibles for the society, af 157 Monroe street. L. R. Atwater, one of the earliest members, has served as President since I870. Other officers are: First VicePresident, N. Silvius; Second Vice-President, the Rev. P. Moerdyke; Secretary, M. E. Tomlinson. YOUNG MEN S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION. On the 6th of June, i866, a few young men met in an office on Canal street for the purpose of organizing a Young Men's Christian Association. This was done, and the following officers chosen: President, Moreau S. Crosby; Vice-President, J. T. Miller; Recording Secretary, C. E. Hulbert; Corresponding Secretary, the Rev. J. Morgan Smith; Treasurer, 1H. \V. Slocum. For a short time its meetings were held in what was then the chapel of the First Congregational Church,but in August Mills& Clancy's Hall was rented and a reading room opened. Regular meetings were then held and a relief department for the needy poor organized. In I867 and for three years subsequent rooms were occupied at 30 Canal street, and in that year the relief work was turned over to the Union Benevolent Association, a library was started, an employment bureau opened, and Luce's Hall engaged for a series of sermons, preached to large audiences. The largest membership had then been 210. An effort to secure a General Secretary in 1867 was abortive. In 1870 legal incorporation was effected, and in I87 the Association took rooms on Monroe street, about opposite the site of the Widdicomb building. An attempt made in 1872 to obtain a building of its own failed, but in July of that year it succeeded in securing a General Secretary, John Horner, who served until October, 1873. A new constitution was adopted in 1874, to widen the scope of its usefulness, and open-air services and the jail work were undertaken. For the former ninety meetings were held that summer. In July the Rev. L. H. Pearce, who had for two years been pastor of the Second Street M. E. Church, became General Secretary, and remained until September, 1875. In January, i875, was made a vast improvement Y()OTUNG ME N'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION-WVOMAN'S TEMI'ERANCE UNIONS. 357 by occupying inviting quarters in Ledyard's Block. Regular services were conducted that year at the Union Depot, Luce's Hall, Powers' Opera House (where the General Secretary preached on Sunday evenings), and at Berkey & Gay's salesrooms. There were at this time a considerable number of zealous young converts and a general disposition to work. Cottage prayer meetings were also held. In 1876 the Centennial Celebration was marked by a specially interesting rehearsal of the history of the first decade of the Association by the Hon. M. S. Crosby, who showed that in those years over $20,000 had been expended in the work, besides $1,862.92 expended in the relief work during its first four years. Just before the close of 1876 the Fifth State Convention of the Young Men's Christian Associations was entertained here. The Rev. E. A. Spence was engaged as General Secretary in February, 1877, but was succeeded before the end of the year by A. B. Carrier. Regular meetings were conducted at ten places outside of the rooms. In I878 the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company opened and placed under the care of the Young Men's Christian Association a reading room for railroad men, near the Union Depot. Mr. Carrier served two years, after which there was a vacancy in the office and a curtailment of the work until November, i88o, when L. P. Rowland, formerly State Secretary, assumed charge. In addition to two devotional meetings per week, a Saturday evening Union Sunday School Teachers' meeting was organized in the fall of 1875 and continued until I882. The attendance was large, and the work was conducted by the Rev. P. Moerdyke, with some assistance part of the time from the Rev. WVm. H. Fleming; also from the fall of I883 until the summer of I885, assisted by the Rev. H. P. \Welton. In February, 1883, the Association moved to more commodious quarters in Godfrey's Block, on Ionia street, one door south of Monroe street, and in March a work for boys was begun. The agitation to secure a permanent home was revived and in 1884 strenuous efforts were made. The lot now occupied by the Livingston Block was purchased and held for a time for the Y. M. C. A. by two of its stanch friends. But owing to the stringency of the money market only one-half of the S40,000 required was conditionally pledged, and the project was abandoned. In the autumn of 1884 Mr. Rowland resigned. He was succeeded in April, I885, by the present General Secretary, R. M. Beattie. At this time all outside work, except that at the Union Depot for railroad employes and at the jail, was given up, in order to devote attention exclusively to young men. The rooms were again felt to be 11ly adapted to the work, and Mr. Julius Berkey offered to lease a part of the lot on the northwest corner of Pear; and Ottawa streets, upon which the Association might erect a temporary building. The offer was accepted and ground was broken for the building November i6, and it was formally opened January I8, I886. The cost of the structure was less than $i,8oo, it being of brick, 28 by 74 feet, two stories high. Thereupon evening classes, lecture courses and gymnastic privileges were organized, and the membership was more than doubled. In February, i887, the Fifteenth State Convention, with its 265 delegates, was entertained. The International Secretaries' Conference was next entertained here, May 29 to June 4, I888, early 300 attending. In September, i888, the lot on the northwest corner of Pearl and Ionia streets was, through the generosity of a few friends, secured and held until the Association realizes a sufficient amount from the solicitation in progress for the past year to take it off their hands. In October, i888, the temporary building was vacated and the old dwelling house on the new building site was occupied. About $30,000 have been pledged for a building, and final success seems assured. The officers for I890 are: President, Clay H. Hollister; First Vice President, George N. Wagner; Second Vice President, A. E. Yerex; Corresponding Secretary, W\. C. Sheppard; Recording Secretary, John B. Martin; Treasurer, Charles D. Harrington; General Secretary, R. M. Beattie. WOMAN'S CHRISTIAN TEMPIERANCE UNIONS. Of these societies, several, with an aggregate membership of 400 in the Union of Unions, flourish in this city. The first organized temperance effort of the ladies of the city was made in i872, when, on June 26, a goodly number organized the "Prohibition Society," with Mrs. C. Potter as President. This was followed, July 22, by a mass meeting of women, at which it was 358 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAI'IDS. resolved to "not patronize grocers who sold liquors." Next a petition was addressed to the Council asking for the enforcement of Sunday laws against saloons, an(l in December one signed by I,100 women asking for enforcement of the law relating thereto. In the winter of I874 the Ohio "Woman's Crusade" aroused multitudes here, and at once numerous mass meetings were held in the churches. After much light had been thrown upon the immoral conditions existing in our city, and great enthusiasm had been awakened, "the further responsibility and control of the work" was, on motion, "turned over to the women." Accordingly, March 19, I874, a large number of women gathered at the Baptist church and established a daily afternoon prayer meeting, and many joined them. Appeals were then made to saloon keepers, physicians, property owners, lawyers, druggists and pastors, asking them to use their influence against the liquor traffic, and all that encourages it. A list of temperance grocers was kept for their patronage, some of whom removed liquors from their stores. The work of the crusade was carried on by personal visits, and prayer at the homes of reformed men, and literature was freely distributed. The Woman's Christian Temperance Union was then organized, and in June, 1874, the State Woman's Christian Temperance Union was organized at Lansing, the convention being attended by a delegation of ladies from here. In September, a State mass meeting of women held here resolved to petition the next Legislature to amend the State prohibitory law, and 2,500 signatures were obtained here and elsewhere, but that law was repealed and superseded by a license law. This defeat disheartened the members, and soon there was a great falling off, bu.t the few protested, and continued in their mission work. In December, 1876, W. B. Ledyard gave them free a six months lease of their Lunch and Reading Rooms in his new block. Then the interest was revived, and 350 boys were taught, and signed the abstinence pledge. Next, Dr. H. E. Reynolds was invited, and, having come, organized the Red Ribbon Club, which spread throughout the city. Numerous and immense gatherings were powerfully addressed upon the subject of reform, and it was estimated that 2,000 men were reclaimed, many of whom, however, soon returned to their vices. After four months the number of saloons was reported by their agent as fifty-six less than before this work. Mrs. L. M. Boise, zealous and influential throughout this and previous efforts, was now the President. The Central. Union became the parent of several other Unions later established in different wards of the city, and attention was given to the rescue of fallen women, and a "Home" on Island street was opened for a few months as a refuge. In co-operation with other towns and cities, the WV. C. T. U. petition, originating here, was successful in establishing the Adrian Reform School for Girls, of which Mrs. S. L. Fuller, one of the early leaders in the Prohibition Society, has for many years been a Trustee. In a similar way public school instruction relating to alcoholic and narcotic stimulants was secured in 1882. Many able lecturers and great quantities of literature have been the means of educating public sentiment here, and bands of Hope, Juvenile Unions and an Industrial School for Girls at the W. C. T. U. Rooms, have accomplished much. Three years since, the Woman's Home and Hospital, on East Fulton street, near Jefferson avenue, was opened, wtlich is elsewhere described. For some years the Unions have acted in full sympathy with the Prohibition party, and they avow a purpose to "persevere in their tried and approved methods to educate a sentiment that shall abolish the rum traffic." In February, I889, they left the rooms in I to 7 Pearl street, which they had occupied for several years, and moved to their present commodious and elegant quarters in Good Templars' Hall, corner of South Division and Island streets. Here the Central Union and the General Union hold their meetings, and the latter conducts an Industrial School on Saturday afternoons, for about seventy children from five to thirteen years old, under the Superintendency of Miss Miss Louie M. Parkman, assisted by Miss Clara Wheeler. During i889 the General Union raised some $900 for its work. The Central Union has seventy-four members, and the following officers: President, Mrs. L. M. Boise; Secretary, Mrs. Emma K. Taylor; Treasurer, Mrs. A. B. Bartlett; and the officers of the General Union, for 1890, are:. President, Mrs. Adelaide DeVore; Secretary, Mrs. A. F. White; Treasurer, Mrs. Emma A. WOMAN'S HOME AND HOSPITAL. 35'. Wheeler; Financial Secretary, Mrs. J. H. McKee. The other Unions are the "Fifth Ward," the 'Eighth VWard," the "Willard," the "South," and the "Ys.," or "Young Wo'man's. '' WOMAN'S HO(ME ANI) HOSPIl'AI,. The institution known as the Woman's Home and Hospital at No. 250 East Fulton street, had its beginning in January, I886. There was an undenominational City Missionary Society, with Mrs. J. Morgan Smith, President; Mrs. Henry Spring, Secretary; Mrs. E. E. Judd, Treasurer; and a VicePresident in every church which would co-operate with it, "looking after the spiritual wants of the neglected classes." To do this work a missionary was employed, l)ut, so severe were three successive winters, and so many were the causes of destitution and distress, that the missionary was compelled to devote most of her time and strength, and much of her salary, to alleviate suffering, inasmuch as the society had no aid fund to draw from. The almost constant calls for the temporary relief of shelterless women, and the difficulties of meeting them, on account of the unfavorable surroundings in many cases of the women requiring such aid, indicated a pressing need for a home where friendless women might receive a more or less regular support, while necessary to their recovery or reformation. Another cause which emphasized this need of a refuge exclusively for women, was the unsuitableness of any of the benevolent homes for erring women who desired to reform. There were men in every one of them. There was "no place in the inn.'' "What shall we do with herthe woman or girl who has no shelter for the night?"-became the pressing question of the hour. The sulbject was earnestly discussed in the newspapers, and there soon came a response in offerings of small amounts of money and some clothing, but not in all more than enough to care for the one girl then in charge, who was very ill and wholly dependent upon charity. The Missicnary Society soon found it could do no more than provide one room in the new U. B. A. Home, and pay for the temporary care of such women as came there by its order. At length camne the organization of a Board of Managers, of which IMrs. P. B. Whitfield was at the head, the other memblers of the board being: Mrs. E. A. Wheeler, Mrs. N. A. Stone, Mrs. C. D. Hodges, Miss Lillie MacDonald and Mrs. A. S. K. Burton. An Advisory Board was composed of the following ladies: Madams Wm. A. Berkey, D. A. Blodgett and G. F. Whitfield. Dr. Whitfield also tendered' his services as Physician to the Home for a year, free of charge, which offer was accepted. Up to March, i886, no place was found in which to locate the "Home for the Friendless," as it was called until September, i886. An agreement finally was made with Mrs. S. J. Douglass, of 440 North lonia street, to open the Home in her residence, and the one unfortunate then under treatment was removed to that place March I7. On May 6, the Home was removed to 519 South Ionia street, and about this time Mrs. Burton, ex-City Missionary, took the place of Matron temporarily without salary. In May the first business meeting was held, and officers chosen as follows: President, Mrs. Dr. M. Veenboer; Vice-Presidents, Mrs. E. A. Wheeler and Mrs. P. B. Whitfield; Recording Secretary, Mrs. N. A. Stone; Financial Secretary, Mrs. Kerr B. Tupper; Treasurer, Mrs. C. D. Hodges. Advisory Board-Kerr B. Tupper, H. P. Welton, P. Moerdyke, W. F. Richardson, J. Rice Taylor, and A. R. Merriam. In September, i886, the Woman's Christian Temperance Union of Unions took charge of the institution and gave it the present name after its removal to the present quarters, consisting of fourteen rooms, which prove inadequate to the increasing demand. Succeeding Mrs. Burton, the following ladies: Miss E. E. Hatch, Mrs. E. J. Hudson, Mrs. Hattie L. Tyler, and Mrs. F. A. Peck have served in the order named as Matrons. The officers (1889-90o), are: President, Mrs. R. E. Watson; Vice-Presidents, Mrs. E. A. Wheeler, Mrs. M. Veenboer; Secretary, Mrs. J. S. Woodworth; Treasurer, Mrs. M. V. Adams; Superintendent of White Shield Department, Mrs. G. F. Whitfield. Mrs. F. A. Peck, the present Matron, is assisted by Miss S. A. VanDoren, a trained nurse. During 1889 the care of the Home was enjoyed by 286 persons, by I58 of them as a charity, and 16o meals and I40 lodgings were given to strangers. The receipts for 1889 were $ I, 1 53.62, and the disbursements $I, 270.6q. 360 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY OF THE HOLLAND CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH. The supply of ministers for this denomination, born here in i857, was for about ten years obtained exclusively from the Netherlands. The church then began to realize the necessity of training some of her own young men, which resulted in placing a few under the instruction of the Rev. D. J. Van der Werp, then pastor at Graafschap, Allegan county, Michigan. But as the infirmities of old age grew upon him a few years later, these students were, by Synodical actipn, committed to the hands of the Rev. G. E. Boer, pastor of the Spring Street Church of this city. These labors, additional to the pastoral care of a large parish, proving too burdensome, the General Synod, in session at Chicago in February, i876, more formally established the Seminary and elected the Rev. G. E. Boer its Professor. He accepted the appointment, preached his farewell to his church March I2, 1876, and in the evening of the I sth, delivered his inaugural address, on "The Education of the Future Minister of the Gospel." This was the formal opening of the institution. The Spring Street Church hlad given the Synod the free use of the second story of its parish school house on Williams street for this purpose, and still continues this generous patronage. The first students here prepared for the ministry were C. Bode, G. Broene, G. Hoeksema, H. Temple and C. Vorst. As the denomination has no college, this Seminary has a Preparatory Department, or Literary Course, which has from time to time been lengthened until it covers four years, to be followed by three years in theological studies. A second Professor was elected by the Synod in 1884. The Rev. G. Hemkes, of Vriesland, Michigan, accepted the call, and lightened the excessive labors before performed by one teacher; but as the demands were still increasing, the curriculum prolonged and a higher standard of qualification for their ministry desired, the Synod, in i886, elected the Rev. G. Vos, Ph. D., the third Professor. He came to this country with his father, the pastor of the Spring Street Church, having enjoyed excellent advantages in his fatherland, next graduated at this Seminary, then spent a year in Princeton Seminary of New Jersey, after which he spent a year in Strass burg University, Germany, and received his degree for merit. He assumed the duties of his chair in September, i888. The faculty as now organized is: The Rev. G. E. Boer, Professor of Exegetical and Practical Theology; the Rev. G. Hemkes, Professor of Classic Languages and Literature, Hebrew and Moral Philosophy; the Rev. G. Vos, Ph. D., Professor of Systematic Theology and Natural Sciences. Several other branches of study are divided between them, and they preside in turn, each for one year. Of twenty-eight graduates of this school, twenty-seven are ministering to various charges in the denomination, and one belongs to the above corps of instructors. Thirty-six young men enjoy the advantages here offered. A small but increasing library is owned by the institution. Previous to I888 all the instruction was in the Holland language, but among the seventy or more congregations for which ministers must be supplied, some already do and will increasingly require English preaching, hence Professor Vos was appointed with a special charge to teach in English and to preach in English if required and found consistent with his official duties. Toward the close of i889 the question of removing this institution to Zeeland or Holland began to be agitated, and is to be settled by the Synod. "THE EMERSON,"A HOME FOR FALIEN WOM EN. AT 79 \VATERI.()() STREET. A fallen woman, who for ten years had kept a house of ill-fame in this city, in i887 became penitent and reformed. This was Georgie Young. At once yearning to rescue her fallen sisters, she had her capacious house moved from a notorious quarter to its present site, 79 Waterloo street, in which, with many improvements, she put about $8,ooo of "'the wages of iniquity" to a Christian use. Her home was, thus renovated and in a favorable locality, converted into a refuge for Magdalens. In May, i888, it was transferred to a few ladies who had organized to carry on this work, and became known as "The Emerson." Mrs. George F. Joynes was secured as Matron, but after one month was succeeded by Mrs. N. L. Purple, who, two months later, was followed by the real founder, Georgie Young, for one month. To the public criticism, notably that of the Superintendent of Police, the Board made concessions deemed expedient, and HOME FOR FALLEN WOMEN-INDEPENDENT ORDER OF GOOD TEMPLARS. 361 Mrs. Anna Livingston assumed the position, in which she continued six months, then handing over her charge to Mrs. Mary P. Livingston, the present Matron. The average number of girls here assisted as inmates in their efforts to return to a life of purity has been eight, a total of eighty or ninety having come under this influence, which has failed in only six cases. Some of them have married and now lead womanly lives illn this city. Religious services are held regularly at the Home on Sunday afternoons, the city clergy of all denominations being invited, in turn, to conduct them, or the ladies most interested take charge of the same. Daily religious instruction forms a chief part of the morning hour of worship, and the day is closed with evening devotions. The average monthly expenses of the institution are $85, including a rental of $30 to Georgie Young. The trifling indebtedness of $250 at the close of I889 gives proof of liberal financial support by citizens, many of whom contribute generous sums annually. Additional sources of income are the annual membership fees of $i, occasional dinners, "benefits," and the circulation of boxes from house to house, and in the churches. The first and only President is Mrs. S. A. King, who, with Miss E. Gertrude Thayer and the Rev. A. R. Merriam, greatly encouraged Georgie Young in her struggle toward the better life and in the earliest stages of her rescue work. Other officers of the Board managing "The Emerson" are Mrs. J. M. Wheeler, Secretary, and Mrs. C. H. Loomis, Treasulrer. In I889 Georgie Young issued her autobiography, entitled, "A Magdalen's Life" all sales of which, in excess of the cost of the edition of i,ooo volumes, were for the benefit of this Home. Having successfully established this movement here, the genuineness of her reform is now bearing fruit in several other large cities in which she has been the originator of similar institutions. "Christian Science," which won numerous adherents here from its first introduction, has exerted a dominant influence in this work from its infancy. Excepting Georgie Young, all the ladies who undertook it, and all the matrons but one, were of this school, as are a majority of the present Board. There is some thought of placing the Home directly under the patronage and care of the city churches. INDEPENDENT ORDER OF GOOD TEMPLARS. To supplement an earlier but brief mention of the Lodges of this Order, we here give an account of their vigorous growth since i888, when they entered upon the most flourishing period of their existence here. The Grand Rapids Temple is now the banner lodge of the State, having, in March, i890, a membership of 216, besides a lodge of I50 Juvenile Templars under its care, whom Miss Eva Gray, as Superintendent, assisted by Miss C.A. Roop, instructs weekly in the principles and work of the order. Of these children they require the threefold pledge of abstinence from all intoxicating drinks, from profanity and from wicked words. For the past two years they have occupied their capacious and handsomely appointed hall in McMullen's Block, northwest corner of South Division and Island streets, which they leased for five years at $700 per annum. Here they hold weekly meetings, socials, stated Sunday-afternoon Gospel-temperance meetings, which are addressed by able speakers, and they also welcome to these elegant quarters, at a nominal rent or gratuitou.sly, the Woman's Christian Temperance Unions, the Prohibition Club and similar organizations. Their increasing strength and missionary zeal led them, in the fall of i889, to organize the now flourishing Veteran Temple, consisting of i6o inmates of the Soldiers' Home, and throughout February, I890, daily meetings were conducted under their auspices by the eminent worker, A. C. Rankin, at the Wonderland Theater, 59-61 Canal street, when many signed the pledge. Recently the South Enterprise Lodge was organized, in the southern part of the city, with thirty members, most of whom came from the Grand Rapids Temple. The present officers of this large, wideawake and aggressive organization, are: Chief Templar, Grant Bentley; Secretary, C. F. Mitchell; Trustees, John Mack and F. C. Elliott, and 0. W. Blain, a prominent member, is Grand Chief Templar of the State. The total membership of the five lodges in March, I890, was about 560. 3 2 CHAPTER XXXIII. PUBLIC BUILDINGS. THE GOVERNMENT BUILDING. Up to November, I879, the Grand Rapids Postoffice was a movable institution. In the beginning the fur traders and missionaries here depended mostly upon Indian scouts for their communication by correspondence with the civilized world. The first postoffice was at the mission station on the west bank of the river, established in I832. It stood a few rods south of Bridge street, and a Postmaster was appointed in December of that year. After settlers began 'to come in and the inconvenience of bringing letters across the river in canoes began to be felt, Joel Guild acted as deputy or clerk, and in I834 the reception and delivery of mail matter was conducted at his house, where the National City Bank is. In his books of that year appear numerous accounts with settlers here and up and down the river; such as charges of postage on letters at rates from 12/ to 25 cents, and quarterly postage on newspapers, from i2'2 to i84 cents. The quarter beginning July i, I834, shows a list of thirteen newspapers taken by residents of the valley. Of course these were all eastern papers, as none were then published in this part of Michigan. In i836 the office was removed to the east side of the river, and was kept at the house of the Postmaster, Darius Winsor, at the corner of Ottawa and Fountain streets, where now is the New Aldrich Block. The contents of the mail bag were not then very extensive, scarcely more than could be accommodated in Mr. Winsor's capacious waistcoat pocket, which the people sometimes facetiously called his postoffice. He soon removed the office to a point on Monroe street nearly opposite Waterloo. The next move was in I838, to a little building on the west side of Prospect H ill at Lyon street. A rough wagon road wound its way nearly up to the office from the west, while the approach from the east was by a foot path over the top of the hill. Its subsequent moves were: In i84I to Canal street, just south of Lyon; in I844, to the south side of Monroe street above Waterloo; in i846, to the east corner of Canal and Pearl streets, where now is the Lovett block; in 1849, from the corner a little north on the east side of Canal street; in I853, two doors further north; in i857, to Exchange Place or alley (Arcade), midway between Pearl and Lyon streets; in i86i, to the McReynolds Block, corner of Lyon and the Arcade; in i868 to the Eagle Building, north side of Lyon, between Canal and Kent; and thence, November i5, i879, to the new Government Building, where it now is. From the small sack carried by the Indian scout or his pony in I833 to the wagon loads of pouches and bags now coming and going almost hourly, the growth of the postal business here has only kept even pace with that of the community and its lively social and business interests. The names of Postmasters here, and the dates of their appointment, as shown by the Bond Division of the Postoffice Department, are as follows: Grand Rapids, Leonard Slater, appointed December 22, 1832. Name of the office changed to Kent, September i, i836, and Darius Winsor appointed. Alfred D. Rathbone (at Kent), July ii, I838. James M. Nelson (at Kent), September 4, 184I. February 6, 1844, name of the office changed back to Grand Rapids, and James M. Nelson continued as Postmaster. Truman H. Lyon, April 9, I845. Ralph W. Cole, March 26, I849. Truman H. Lyon, March 25, i853, and re-appointed February 21, i856. Harvey P. Yale, September 29, I857. Noyes L. Avery, March 27, i861. Charles H. Taylor, August 24, I866. Solomon 0. Kingsbury, March i i, i867. Aaron B. Turner, April 9, I869. Peter R. L. Peirce, March i9, 1877. (Mr. Peirce die(l November I2, i878, and Martin L. Sweet, THE GOVERNMENT BUILDING. 363 one of the sureties, took charge of the office till his successor was appointed.) James Gallup, December I8, I878. Heman N. Moore, December 20, i882. James Blair, September 29, I885. George G. Briggs, April 2, i890. This office became "Presidential" (appointment subject to the President and Senate) February 21, i856, with salary at $i,ooo per annum. Prior to that, appointments were made by the Postmaster General. Very soon after the close of the War of the Rebellion the Senators and Representatives in Congress from this part of Michigan, began efforts to secure the establishment and construction of a Government Building in Grand Rapids. It was not until about I872 that they succeeded in giving a start to the work. Early in I873 a commission was appointed on the selection of a site. It was composed of nine persons, to-wit: S. L. Withey, C. C. Comstock, T. D. Gilbert, and Henry Fralick of Kent county, L. V. Townsend of Ionia, Hezekiah G. Wells of Kalamazoo, I. V. Harris of Ottawa, A. P. Alexander of Van Buren, and L. G. Mason of Muskegon. These Commissioners advertised for proposals for a site, and received ten, which were opened May 2, i873. As a matter of comparison, a statement of several of these proposals, with prices, is of interest. They were as follows: The Catholic Church property, 132 feet square, south corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets, $55,ooo. Corner of Ottawa and Crescent avenue, ioo by io8 feet, part of the present County Court House site, $15,ooo. The Shepard property, corner of Fountain and Ionia, where Hartman Hall now is, 132 by i8o feet, $27,500. Parcel 132 by 170 feet, corner of Pearl and Ottawa streets fronting east and south, $50,o00. Corner of Lyon and Ottawa streets, fronting west and south, I30 by I90 feet, $39,250. Corner of the same streets, 00 by i67 feet, fronting east and south, $27,000. A piece 126 by 135 feet (the Dr. Platt property), fronting east and north at the corner of Division and East Fulton streets, $25,000. The other three proposals were of property some distance from the center of the city, and at merely nominal prices. After examination of the several premises, the' Commissioners made report of their preference for three, without recommending any, in the following order: First, that front ing east and south at the corner of Pearl and Ottawa; second, that fronting west and south at the corner of Lyon and Ottawa; third, that where the Hartman Hall now stands. The Treasury Department rejected them all, and having caused some further examination by the Supervising Architect, the Secretary of the Treasury issued an order January 12, i874, for the condemnation of three parcels from which the Government would choose. These three were: First, the block bounded by Lyon, North Division, Pearl and Ionia streets; second, parcel I24 feet deep east of Ottawa street between Pearl and Lyon, where the Houseman Building now is; third, eight lots where the City Hall now stands. Jurors were drawn, and appraisals made as follows: For the first, $68,064.85; for the second, $76,020; for the third, $50,50o. The Treasury Department in April selected the first of these, where the Government Building now stands, and Congress, before adjournment in June, appropriated $70,000 for the site. Preparations were then made for building. Excavations for the foundations were finished in the spring of I876. A little more than three years then elapsed before the completion of the building. John R. Stewart was the Superintendent of Construction. The mason work of the walls was done by John S. Farr & Co.; the plumbing and roofing by Shriver, Weatherly & Co., and the painting by A. H. Fowle. Nelson, Matter & Co. furnished the curtains. The joiner work was done by parties from Baltimore. The tile flooring was procured from Cincinnati, and the door trimmings and gas fixtures from Philadelphia. Smith & Co., of Chicago, were the plasterers. The grounds were subsequently handsomely graded, which required a great deal of filling, the site being partially in a ravine, sunken and swampy, where was formerly the outflow from a mudhole pond that existed between there and Fountain street. The entire block was encircled by a handsome pavement of imported stone, with inside beveled stone coping, on which was placed an iron fence. The total cost of, or aggregate of appropriations made by Congress for, this structure up to the fall of 1878, including that made for the site, was $212,000. This Postoffice Building was finished, and occupied by the Internal Revenue and 3<14 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. United States Court officers, September i, I879, and the first court session there was held October 7. The Postoffice was moved there on the 15th of November following. The dimensions of the structure are 126 feet north and south by 63 feet east and west. It stands 60 feet equidistant from Pearl and Lyon streets, 38 feet from Ionia, and 86 feet from North Division. In the basement is the apparatus for heating, by a combination of the hot air flue and radiator systems; from which the large smoke pipe of cast iron is carried up through the building and enters the chimney in the attic. In the basement, with the style and character of so massive a building. Several varieties of American woods are represented in the casings and doors, butternut mouldings being a prominent feature. Desks, tables, chairs, and other furniture are largely of black walnut and oak. The tile flooring is of tasty pattern. The door trimmings are of solid bronze, and the gas fixtures of handsome and ornamental designs in burnished copper and nickel. In architectural design the building is similar to many others of its kind erected by the Government throughout the country. The'surrounding grounds are well 'I H 11 )f,;HKN.MN I I IUILI! also, are the fuel rooms, with capacity for eighteen car loads of coal; closets and lavatory for the public, and rooms for the occupants of the building. Above, the entire first floor is occupied by the Postoffice. On the second floor are the offices of the principal Government officials stationed here, including Collector of Internal Revenue, United States Marshal and United States District Attorney. On the third floor are the Court and Jury Rooms of the United States Circuit and District Courts for the Western District of Michigan. The interior finish is fine and substantial, comporting )ING -: l'L FE:D. IN 1o79. kept, and, at current prices of real estate are probably now nworth more than the superstructure. THE MAIL, CARRY}ING SERVICE. For several years and up to i837 the only regular mail into Grand Rapids came from the direction of Detroit, and that was rather irregular in the route traveled and time required for its passage. It was brought at first by scouts or runners, sometimes on foot, sometimes with a horse or pony, and very seldom in a carriage of any kind. The average frequency of mail arrivals was less THE MAIL CARRYING SERVICE-THE CITY DELIVERY. than one a week. A little later mails were brought on horseback by way of Gull Prairie or Kalamazoo as often as once a week. There was little occasion at that time for mails from any other direction than south and east. In I837 contracts were made for bringing the mail from Battle Creek by stage twice a week; the stipulated time being twelve hours, with a provision allowing for delays by stress of weather, under which it not infrequently amounted to thirty-six hours. The stage of that period was tusually the old fashioned, cumbrous, lumber wagon, generally carrying passengers as well as mail. It was not until August, I846, that a daily mail from the east by way of Battle Creek was established, and this for two or three years was sometimes nearly two days in getting through. In i841, mail arrivals here were once a week from Kalamazoo, Howell, Grand Haven and Austerlitz (the latter place being in Plainfield Township, this county), and once in two weeks from Jackson. In the fall of that year mail service from Kalamazoo twice a week was established. In I842, routes were established from Grand Rapids vza' Lake Alone (Green Lake) to Middleville, and by Allen's Corners, Lake Alone and Barnes' Mill to Kalamazoo, and also from Grandville to Port Sheldon. In I843 there were three stages a week from Battle Creek, but the newspaper complained that there were only two mails a week. In I844 the route between Grand Rapids and Grand Haven was changed from the south to the north side of the river. In 1846 there were lettings for mail service once a week to Lyons, to Ionia, to Grand Haven (two routes, one on each side of the river), to Kalamazoo, to Paw Paw, to Muskegon Mills in Newaygo county, to Lincoln's Mills in Montcalm county, and three times a week to Battle Creek. New postal routes were established in September, I850, to Lyons, to Ionia, to Muskegon and to Mackinac. From this time forward mail service was established on new routes nearly every year, in various directions from the city, until the advent of railroads. There were daily mails during the summer season both up and down the river, and throughout the year several from the southward. The railroads as fast as they came in furnished new and increased facilities, each of them bringing mails at least twice a day. From the pocket office of Postmaster Winsor to the present palatial one in this city, the growth of our postal accommodations is worthy of study. It was said that his vest pocket would hold the entire letter contents of any incoming mail, and it is not recorded that there was about his clothes a single lock-box or drawer, or even a case of pigeon-holes. Now, these appliances fill the largest apartment in the Government Building, at one door of which comes and goes a steady file of mail bags, and at the other an equally constant procession of citizen customers, while the business giv es employment to a small army of clerks and carriers. In the first quarter of i868 the delivery of letters averaged about 1,200 daily, and in the office, which was then in the Eagle Building, were 2, 134 boxes and 530 drawers, of which about two-thirds were in use. At the end of 1872 the proportions were changed. There were then 1,896 pigeon holes and 2,880 drawers. The introduction of the carrier system greatly decreased the demand for office boxes. In the present building there are 580o call boxes, 190 lock boxes and 44 unused drawers. THE CI''V I DELIVE RY. The free delivery system by carriers was established September i, 1873, with the following force: John Sonke, Raymond McGowan, C. W. Bignell, C. L. Shattuck and J. F. Lamoreaux. The salary of the letter carriers at the time was $600o, to be increased $ioo at the end of the first year and $I50 more at the end of the second year. The present pay is $600 the first year, and after that $850. They work eight hours a day. Carriers in I888: James De Young, Edward Riordan, H. M. Patterson, George F. Blickle, Paul Blickle, Samuel Harting, Julius Cesar, Alex. McDonald, Charles WV. Dolan, J. Wesley Jones, Christ McNally, James Cronin, Willard S. Berry, F. P. Whitman, Wm. J. Heyboer, Daniel F. Clark, Ernest J. Sigler, Harry S. Wilson, Herman Warrell, John M. Hendricks, John A. Risedorph, Alvin Z. Holmes, John Redmond, Asa H. Wells, Dennis T. Berry, Frank J. Fisher, Michael J. Concannan, John Sonke. As clerk or assistant in the Postoffice, Charles Mosely had a long experience, beginning in I849 and subsequently serving with several different postmasters. Since 366 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. 1876 Martin R. Melis has been Assistant Postmaster. The growth of business at the Grand Rapids Postoffice is illustrated in some measure bythefollowingfigures: In I872 the money order footings as published in the daily papers showed, orders issued, $67,96I.04; orders paid, $I25,338.72. In i888 -orders issued, $149,204.98; orders paid, $393,370,25. General business-In I872, receipts, $32,871.0o6; expenses, $11,993 35. In I888, receipts, $98,083.27; expenses, $35,697.89. For the five years from i885 to I889, inclusive, the Postoffice Department reports from this postoffice show: Year Ended. June 30, 1885.......... June 30, 1886.......... June 30, 1887.......... June 30, 1888.......... June 30, 1889.......... Receipts. $71,479.30 79,028.14 86,593.77 98,083 27 112,795.51 Expenditures. $27,828. 60 29,730.28 33,089.31 35,697.89 40,105.13 Totals.............$147,979.99 $166,451 21 INTERNAL REVENUE OFFICE. The Internal Revenue service in this Fourth Collection District of Michigan was organized in the fall and winter of I862-63. Its headquarters have been continuously in this city. It had several removals, and on the completion of the Government Building was permanently located there. The work of organizing was done by the first Collector or under his supervision. The Collectors and their terms of office have been: Sept. 2, I862, to Oct. I, J866, Aaron B. Turner. Oct. I, i866, to March 4, I867, Robert P. Sinclair. March 4, I867, to April i, i867, Thompson Sinclair (Acting). April i, i867, to Sept. I, i882, Sluman S. Bailey. Sept. I, i882, to June 27, I885, Charles W. Watkins. June 27, i885, to July 12, I889, George N. Davis. July I2, i889, John Steketee was appointed Collector. Assessors-August 5, 1862, to Sept. 21, I866, Alonzo Sessions. Sept. 21, i866, to March 4, 1867, George S. Cooper. March 4, I867, to March 20, 1867, John B. Hutchins (Acting). March 20, 1867, to June 2, 1873, Westbrook Divine. At the last named date the office of Assessor was abolished. PENSION AGENTS. An agency for the payment of pensions was located at Grand Rapids in i866. The Pension Agents have been: From March, i866, to April 2, i869, George W. Allen; from April 21, I869, to July i, I877, Thaddets Foote. By an Executive order dated May 7, 1877, the Grand Rapids Agency was abolished and its pensioners transferred to the rolls of the Detroit agency from and after July i of that year. The Agents at Detroit since then have been: Samuel Post, appointed March 15, 1873, and served till Nov. 7, I885; and Robert McKinstry, appointed Nov. 7, I885. George W. Allen was born at Enfield, Conn., Sept. 13, 1813, and came to this city in i853; was a merchant here upward of a dozen years; was the first Pension Agent for this part of Michigan, appointed in i866, and has served in other public offices. As a business man he has been connected also with banks and with manufacturing. THE SOLDIERS' HOME. Agitation for several years of the subject of erecting by the State of Michigan a refuge for disabled, decrepit, aged or indigent soldiers, culminated in the passage of Act No. 152, Session Laws of i885,approved June 5, I885,which provided for the "establishment of a home for disabled soldiers, sailors and marines, within the State of Michigan." Under the provisions of this Act the Governor appointed as the Board of Managers, A. T.' Bliss, of Saginaw, and Samuel Wells, of Buchanan, for six years; Byron R. Pierce, of Grand Rapids, and Charles A. Remick, of Detroit, for four years; and Michael Brown, of Big Rapids, and Charles Y. Osburn, of Marquette, for two years. By virtue of his office, Governor Russell A. Alger was Chairman of this first Board. By the same Act, an appropriation of $50,000 was made for maintaining the Home for the years i885 and i886. The first work before the Board was the selection of a site. They had before them sixteen propositions from as many different points in the State. After careful examination the Board selected Grand Rapids as the locality for the Home. This was August 22, 1885. The proposition from Grand Rapids included an offer of the choice of several different pieces of land for the building site. At a subsequent meeting the Board determined to build upon the "Burchard Farm," near Reeds Lake, if the city would construct and maintain proper sewerage. This proving impracticable, that farm was abandoned THE MICHIGAN SOLDIERS' HOME. 367 and a new site selected on the "Nelson Farm," three miles north of the business center of the city. The tract, comprising I32 acres, was purchased by citizens of Grand Rapids at a cost of $i6,5oo and deeded to the State. The amount was made up, chiefly in small subscriptions, by upward of 450 persons. Plans and specifications were advertised for, a premium of $i,ooo for the best and $8oo for the second best being offered. A number were received. That of F. W. Hollister, an architect of Saginaw, was accepted box containing: Michigan Manual, I885 and i886; official report of the Nineteenth Annual Encampment, Grand Army of the Republic, held in Portland, Maine; report of Sixth Annual Reunion of Soldiers and Sailors of Southern Michigan; roster of the G. A. R., I885-86, Department of Michigan; copies of current local railway time tables and reports; Charter of the city of Big Rapids; memorial by Pennoyer Post, G. A. R., Saginaw; "Michigan, my Michigan," poem by Major J. W. Long; memorial lines by Colonel Samuel Wells, Manager of I1, MICHIGAN SOLDIERS' HOME-BI'IILT IN i886. and adopted, and the first premium awarded to him. Proposals for the construction of the building were then solicited, in response to which eight bids were received. January 27, i886, the bids were opened and the contract was awarded to Charles Tiedke, of Saginaw, at $99,667.57, he being the lowest responsible bidder. March i 5, 886, ground was broken for the excavation for the building. April 13 the first stone was laid. June 3 the corner-stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies, but without special public demonstration. In it was placed a sealed the Home; copy of Governor Alger's first message; copy of the law authorizing the establishment of the Soldiers' Home; copy of Daily Eagle of November 30, I885, with list of contributors for the purchase of the site; copies of the Democrat and TelegramHerald, and the following sentiment penned by Major and Justice of the Supreme Court A. B. Morse: "This day the corner-stone of Michigan's best and latest testimonial to the worth and services of her sons in the war for the suppression of the Rebellion and the re-establishment of a United Government 368 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. will be laid; a Home for the disabled and enfeebled veterans who lost their health and energies in defense of our homes. May it stand forever!" Pending the construction of the building, temporary arrangements were made as provided by law for the care of indigent soldiers, and applications for admission began to come in at once, the first admitted being John Wright, Fourteenth Michigan Infantry, Sept. I I, I885. Colonel Samuel Wells, Manager, was selected to have charge of the temporary Home. The office was first opened in Lansing, with Major J. W. Long as clerk and book-keeper, but August 31, I885, was removed to Grand Rapids, and remained in the city until the completion of the Home, and on January i, I887, was again moved to the new building. During the interval, before occupying the new Home, 454 were admitted. The conditions of admission were: A declaration from the applicant, stating that he served as a soldier or sailor in the Union army or navy during the late civil war, and, that if he did hot serve in a Michigan regiment, that he was, on the first day of June, I884, an actual resident of the State of Michigan; also, a statement of his military service, number of enlistments, age nativity, occupation, married or single, and name and address of nearest living relative. This was followed by a declaration of his disability; a statement as to the amount of his pension, the affidavit closing with an obligation to obey and abide by the rules and regulations of the Home. Following this was a certificate of identification to determine citizenship, and condition as far as ability to take care of himself was concerned. A surgeon's certificate followed this, stating the physical condition of the applicant. Arrangements for the keeping and care of inmates were first made with the Board of Managers of the St. Mark's Home, at $3 a week per man. Soon there came many requiring hospital treatment, and for these $2 a week additional was allowed. St. Mark's Home was soon filled, and others were established-U. B. A. Home, Clinton Home, American Home, VWilson Home, Smith Home, and Nelsonwood Home. The latter was in a building on the Soldiers' Home grounds, which had been owned and used by James M. Nelson in his lifetime for a summer residence. At the American Home, a building formerly used as a hotel, on Canal street north of Bridge, a general hospital was established and dispensary opened, and Dr. R. Humphrey Stevens placed in charge as Acting Surgeon. The dedication of the Home at its completion, December 30, I886, was an affair of unusual public interest. The building was filled. Thousands of people were in attendance. The ceremonies were opened with prayer by the Rev. Washington Gardner. Charles Tiedke, the builder, presented the structure to Fred. W. Hollister, the architect, who accepted it and in turn delivered it to Governor Alger. Next in order was the presentation of the Home by the Governor to John Northwood, Department Commander, G. A. R., for dedication. Then followed the ritualistic dedication conducted by Commander Northwood, a dedicatory address by Governor Alger, and addresses by the Hon. Byron M. Cutcheon, by Governor-elect Cyrus G. Luce, by exGovernor Austin P. Blair, by ex-Senator Thomas W. Ferry, and other invited guests. Between the speeches the exercises were enlivened by spirited patriotic songs and military music. The Soldiers' Home Building is 258 feet in length, the central portion 98 feet deep, and the wings at the ends each 120 feet deep; with a basement, three stories and attics. It is admirably constructed for the purposes intended. It stands fronting the river, is finely located, 38 feet above the river level, and in appearance is among the handsomest public buildings in the State. The foundation is of stone, the walls are of brick with cut stone trimmings, and it is surmounted by a slate roof with galvanized iron cornices. The stone masonry and brick work, and furnishing of the interior, also the plumbing and gas fixtures, were done mainly by Grand Rapids mechanics and manufacturers. The building is heated by steam and lighted by gasoline gas. It has an abundant supply of excellent water. and an effective system of sewerage. The State Legislature, at the session of I889, appropriated for improvements at the Soldiers' Home: For a hospital $20,000, for a dormitory $12,000, for a receiving vault $475, and for a root house $725-in all $33,200-and those additions are in course of erection. The hospital is 140 feet north and iio feet back from the main building; ii6 feet front by 90 feet deep; two stories MICHIGAN SOLDIERS' HOME-DEATHS OF INMATES. 369 and basement. The dormitory is 60 feet south and 30 feet to the rear of the main structure; Ioo feet front by 40 feet deep; two stories and basement; with an "L" at the rear for laundry and bakery, ioo feet deep and one story high. Excellent provision is made for warming and ventilating these buildings. The supervision and government of the Home is vested in a Board of Managers consisting of the Governor, who is Chairman ex-officio, and six members appointed by the Governor for a term of six years. The members (March, i889) are: Capt. Royal A. Remick and Gen. Russell A. Alger of Detroit (terms expire June 12, I889); Col. Aaron T. Bliss of Saginaw and Col. Samuel Wells of Grand Rapids (terms expire June 12, I891); James A. Crozier of Menominee and Michael Brown of Big Rap ids (terms expire June I2, i893). Officers of the Board: A. T. - Bliss, Treasurer; Michael Brown, Clerk. Officers of the Home: Byron R. Pierce, Manager; James W. Long, Clerk and Adjutant; Dr. R. H. Stevens, Acting Surgeon; Chester B. Hinsdill, Commissary; E. P. Everett, Chief Engineer. In April, i886, the Board of Managers located a Soldiers' Home Cemetery. The site comprises five acres near the northwest corner of the grounds, on which is an oak grove. The plat of the cemetery is in the form of a maltese cross, on each of four sections of which are laid out spaces for 262 graves; in all room for 1,048 interments. There have been (August, I889) upward of a hundred and thirty deaths at the institution, of whom about three-fourths were buried at the Home Cemeter-. DEATHS OF INMATES OF THE SOLDIERS' HOME. Ackley, John.......................... Adams, Benjamin.................... Alderman, W illiam.................... Ameron, James........................ Anderson, Alexander.................. Armstrong, Thomas................ Baker, Eli............................ Bartell, Nicholas................... Bebee, Geurdon...................... Bills, Albert.......................... B lack, John S......................... B olin, C airo......................... B riggs, Jason....................... Brown, George..................... Bruno, William..................... Bunker, Mortimer.................... Carroll, Charles..................... Cassidy, Barney...................... Champagne, Pierre................... Coleman, James I.............. Coleman, John C...................... Collins, Michael....................... Cooke, Gabriel.................... Cooper, W esley....................... Corbin, Nathaniel................... Craig, Vernon....................... Crandall, Charles H................ Crawford, Alonzo P.................. Cushing Alonzo....................... Daniels, Francis..................... D ecker, John......................... Demont, Noah....................... Densler, John L...................... Derby, Leonard....................... D rew Jam es....................... Elliott, W illiam D..................... Emmett, Dagobert.................... Estes, Jerom e......................... 33 Co. D C B I C F B E C K I J E I) I) K F A F C K G F A I H L D D K I D D RKE(;IM\- NoT. DATE OF DEATH. 8th Michigan Cavalry................. February 25, 1889. 31st Ohio Infantry.................. May 25, 1889. 16th New York Artillery............March 18, 1889. 57th Illinois Infantry............ May 25, 1889. 12th Illinois Infantry..........May 3, 1886. 2d Pennsylvania Cavalry......... December 21, 1888. 10th Michigan Infantry............ March 9, 1887. 1st Michigan Cavalry............. January 26, 1889. Sth Veteran Reserve Corps......... June 15, 1889. 1st U S. Sharp Shooters............ March 31, 1889. 8th Michigan Cavalry............... March-10, 1887. 102d U. S. Colored Troops..........May 11, 1887. 29th Ohio Volunteers..............August 9, 1887. 8th Michigan Infantry............ May 30, 1887. 20th U. S. Colored Troops..........June 19, 1888. Sth Michigan Infantry............... April 28, 1887. Not an inmate..................... August 15, 1886. 3d Michigan Cavalry..............October 13, 1886. 147th Illinois Infantry............ February 24, '1888. 77th Pennsylvania Infantry........ February 23, 1887. 10th Michigan Cavalry..........December 29, 1885. 1st Michigan Sharp Shooters....... December 5, 1885. 12th Wisconsin Infantry............ September 1, 1886. 137th New York Infantry........... November 14, 1888. 9th New York Artillery........ January 19, 1888. 6fth Iowa Cavalry...............February 26, 1888. 11th Michigan Infantry.............April 15, 1886. Battalion U. S. Engineers.......... January 9, 1889. 9th Michigan Infantry.............. September 2, 1886. Lieutenant 7th Michigan Infantry.... December 27, 1887. 10th Michigan Infantry.............August 19, 1887. 1st Michigan Engineers and Mech's..December 4, 1886. 29th Michigan Infantry............. May 1, 1887. 30th Michigan Infantry............. February 10, 1889. 19th Wisconsin Infantry............ January 4, 1889. 29th Ohio Infantry................. September 13, 1888. 28th Michigan Infantry.............. January 28, 1888. 61st Massachusetts Infantry.........March 31, 1889. 370 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. NAME. Fenton, George W................... Fox, Daniel........................... Frost, David........................ Gaines, Oscar 0....................... Gereaux, Louis....................... Gibson, Asa.......................... Gillett, W illiam B..................... Gordonier, John W.................... Gregory, Tuthill R.............. Hall, Othniel......................... Hayes, Sanford E.................... Heptner, Paul....................... Hibbard, Charles W.................. H iggins, Peter....................... H iggins, W. S........................ Hudson, Hezekiah................... Hull, John............................ Jam es, Silas........................... Johnson, Bradley..................... Kieley, Michael...................... Kilmer, Nelscn...................... Kimball, Lovell....................... Knowles, George.................... Lambert, Samuel...................... Lang, Rheinhold...................... Leavitt, Lester W.................. Lindsley, Charles.................... Long, John R......................... McDonald, Angus..................... McDonald, Hugh..................... McMaster, Marcus................... McNamara, Dennis.................. McWilliams, William G.............. M aule, Uriah.......................... Mawby, W illiam H.................. M apes, Samuel........................ Markham, Bradley.................... Merrick, James C..................... M illard, George I..................... Monch, William...................... M oore, John.......................... M orrill, Andrew J..................... M orris, M onroe...................... Newcomb, Arrian.................... Nichols, W illiam...................... Nixon, Sanford B..................... Northrop, James B................... O'Day, Andrew........................ Olin, Oliver B......................... Osborne, George...................... Pfifer, Antoine....................... Pine, Daniel W........................ Praigg, Sam uel....................... Presley, Francis M.................. Purdy, Heman....................... Quackenbush, Eben.................. Reiner, Christian...................... Robinson, DeW itt C................... Rosencrans, Jay....................... Sanford, Timothy R................... Schun, Leonard....................... Scott, George......................... Scribner, Jacob H..................... Shadil, Charles F...................... Sharples, Joseph..................... Shed, Charles..................... Shintler, Levi......................... Simson, Vinson...................... Smith, Eugene A..................... Co. REGIMENT. DATE OF DEATH. G 6th Michigan Infantry..............October 4, 188-5. A 2d Maine Cavalry................ January 22, 1888. F 15th Michigan Infantry............. January 25, 1886. H 1st U. S. Cavalry.................. September 11, 1887 F 11th U. S. Infantry.............. November 10, 1888 E 4th. Michigan Cavalry.............December 10, 1888. I 10th Michigan Infantry............July 23, 1886. I 2d New York Mounted Rifles........October 28, 1887. E 34 Michigan Cavalry............... December 7, 1888. E 4th Michigan Cavalry................ November 23, 1886. I 65th Illinois Infantry................ December 15, 1887. 9th Michigan Cavalry.............. ecember 25, 1888. K 4th Maine Infantry................. C 5th Michigan Infantry..............September 29, 1886. A 20th Michigan Infantry............. September 20, 1887. E 46th Ohio Infantry................. June 7, 1889. U. S. S. Keystone State............ June 13, 1888. D 13th Michigan Infantry............ June 29, 1887. F 10th Michigan Cavalry.............. December 22, 1888. B 14th Michigan Infantry............ November 18, 1887. C 21st Michigan Infantry............. January 3, 1886. I 50th New York Engineers.........November 26, 1888. I 29th Michigan Infantry..............April 17, 1887. E 9th Michigan Infantry.............. April 22, 1888. A 16th Michigan Infantry.............December 13, 1886. C 29th Ohio Volunteers.............March 24, 1886. F 6th Michigan Inf'ry (Heavy Artillery).July 12, 1889. A 16th Michigan Infantry..............October 8, 1886. K 1st Colorado Cavalry................January 21, 1888. F 1st Michigan Engineers and Mech's..October 22, 1887. E 129th Indiana Infantry..............July 18, 1889. I lst Michigan Engineers and Mech's..October 29, 1888. B 106th New York Infantry..........February 20, 1889. C 10th Michigan Cavalry..............December 20, 1887. G 52d New York Infantry............ May 23, 1887. B 21st Michigan Infantry..............July 18, 1889. L 1st Michigan Light Artillery.........June 22, 1889. B 23d Michigan Infantry........... June 21, 1886. K 2d Michigan Cavalry................January 30, 1889. L N. Y. S. M...................February 7, 1887. B 90th New York Volunteers........... June 1, 1886. B U. S. Engineer Corps.............. April 6, 1886. Steamer Cairo, U. S. Navy.........December 24, 1887. C 10th Veteran Reserve Corps........May 4, 1887. A 11th Veteran Reserve Corps....... April 23, 1886. M 1st New York Light Artillery........February 25, 1889. F 2d Ohio Infantry................ March 13, 1889. A 17th Kentucky Cavalry..............January 6, 1887. F 105th New York Volunteers.......... March 11, 1886. C 9th Michigan Cavalry...............April 17, 1886. G 16th Michigan Infantry............. December 31, 1887. E 122d New York Infantry........... April 8, 1889. H 11th Michigan Infantry............ September 14, 1887. E 10th New York Artillery............November 28, 1888. K 4th Michigan Cavalry............... December 20, 1886. B 1st Michigan Cavalry............... January 24, 1887. B 1st Michigan Light Artillery......... March 18, 1887. A 8th Michigan Cavalry..............October 25, 1887. B 29th Michigan Infantry............. June 4, 1887. K 19th Ohio Volunteers.............. March 16, 1886. H 155th Indiana Infantry.............. May 10, 1887. G 15th Michigan Infantry...........March 13, 1888. I 105th Indiana Infantry..............April 15, 1889. D 82d Ohio Infantry................. March 24 1887. K 81st Indiana Infantry.............July 22, 1888. F 1st Michigan Engineers and Mech's.. November 3, 1887. 14th Battery Mich. Light Artillery....October 19, 1887. L 3d Michigan Cavalry............... June 24, 1889. B 8th Michigan Cavalry............... March 11, 1888. DEF.\ATHS ()F INMATES OF THE SOLDIERS' HOME-KENT COUNTY COURT HOUSE. 371 NAMF. Co. Smith, Robert K...................... ) 5th li Spencer, Abner J.................. 1) 22d NV Spencer, Sylvester...'.....:....... H 24th 1 Sprague, Charles...................... 1) 28th 1 Stebbins, Harding................... ( 9th M Strong, Henry N. 4th M Studelman,.Franz................B 29th ] Thayer, John........,........... A 10th I Thompson, Morg r;................ H 19th Tooker, George W...7.:...'.............. - J lth l Tucker, George.......... 10'2d Underwood, John.....'............. H 1st M Van Kuren, Abraham............... H 11th Wadsworth, Daniel B................ C 6th N W eitz, Adam........................... K 16th N W endover, Henry..................... F 2d Mi W heeler, Edwin....................... B 12th Wickham, Christopher................. K 5th M W ilson, Hiram A..................... F 228th W ilson, Mortimer................. B 1st U. Woodard, Myron C................... B 10th 1 Wright, Henry................ G 188th Young, W illiam................... I 1st Pe Zeass, Lewis......................... A 4th M KEN'T COUNTY COURT HOUSE. From the beginning up to the present time, fifty-five years, fhe Kent County offices have been a wandering and much divided family. November 8, I833, James Kingsley, S. V. R. Trowbridge and Charles Lanman, Commissioners appointed by the Governor of the. Territory, came here to designate the place of the Seat of Justice of the County of Kent. The place selected was on what is now known as the Public Square or Fulton Street Park, and they set a stake' Very nea4 the center of that ground. This was done irf p'h'rsuaince of an act of the Territorial Legislature passed July 3I, I830. In 1838 the county'built at Court H6use there, in which were held the courts and county municipa meetings. 'A portion was used for a jail, and the Sheriff's residence was in the building. It was a two-story frame, about 30 by 40 feet in size, fronting east and west, with a hallway through the center. It had a cupola, over which was a gilt ball. It was built by Sylvester Granger and William I. Blakely; contract price, $3,000. It was destroyed by fire Jully I2, 1844, and was replaced by a smaller, one-story building, with a single room and entrance hall, some what in the fashion of a country school house. This was used for County Court purposes and meetings of the Board of Supervisors for about six years. Its cost was only $300. It was also used for school purposes REGIMENT. DATE OF DEATH. [ichigan Infantry.............. August 29, 1886. lichigan Infantry............January 26, 1888. New York Volunteers.......... February 6, 1886. Michigan Infantry........... September 2, 1887. [ichigan Cavalry...............August 28, 1886. lichigan Infantry............. August 6, 1886. Michigan Infantry.............June 15, 1887. New York Heavy Artillery..... June 27, 1889. Wisconsin Infantry........... March 28, 1889. Pennsylvania Cavalry..........April 27, 1889. U. S. Colored Troops..........June 19, 1886. ichigan Engineers and Mech's..November 15, 1887. Michigan Infantry........... March 12, 1886. ew York Cavalry..............April 23, 1889. Mlichigan Infantry............. May 26, 1889. ichigan Cavalry............. June 8, 1889. Michigan Infantry............ June 4, 1886. Michigan Infantry............. April 4, 1886. Ohio Infantry................ February 26, 1889. S. Cavalry..................April 2, 1886.,liclijgan:.fantry.......... April 2, 1887. Ohio Want. i......March 11, 1887. nnsyivania Vorunteers.........November 28, 1887. [ichigan Infantry............ November 19, 1887., by the' Grand Rapids Academy; was the place of the annual Indian payment one or two years, and of the annual fairs of the Kent County Agricultural Society in 1849 and I850. The annual elections, local and general, were held there for some years during the village days. The offices of the County Clerk, Register and Treasurer were never kept in either of those buildings. In 1845 the. Supervisors invited proposals for the erection Of a stone or brick building, but nothing:.angible seems to have resulted frofn" that)' The county ceased to use the site about JS*2,* and from that time until 1860 rented rooms 'in various quarters of the city for Clerk's, Register's and Treasurer's offices and Court and Supervisors' rooms. Charles H. Taylor, who was elected Clerk in i838, and held the position eight years, once testified that he. kept the office wherever his place of business was, using a little desk with about twenty-five pigeon-holes. The office was moved several times during that period, and in 1845 was in the Rathbone building, at the junction of Monroe and Ottawa streets, opposite the foot of Fountain street. Under Mr. Taylor's successor, in 1847, it was kept in Irving Hall, and about this time the County rented offices in the Rathbone Building for Clerk, Register and Treasurer, which were occupied several years. \When the old Court House site was 372 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPII)S. abandoned, the Court and Board of Supervisors moved to the west side of the river and used for some time a building erected for church and lecture-room purposes, near the end of the Bridge street bridge. A hall in Commercial Block was also used for a time. In January, 1852, the county offices were removed to the three-story frame building known as Public Hall, or Sons of Temperance Hall, on the east side of Canal street midway between Lyon and Crescent avenue. Some six years afterward the County rented apartments in the Taylor & Barns Block, where the McReynolds Block now is, which were used until that building was burned in January, i86o, when the records were destroyed. After that fire the County found temporary quarters in Collins Hall, in Luce's Block, the Withey Block, and other places. In that year was purchased for $i,ooo, on ten years' credit at 7 per cent., ground at the corner of Lyon and Kent streets, and a building placed thereon, in which have since been kept the offices of Clerk, Register, V loan of $1,000 at a rate of interest not to exceed ten per cent. In the meantime, for the use of the Courts and the Board of Supervisors,other quarters have been rented. From i850 until i887 there was almost a continuous strife in the Board of Supervisors, over questions as to the permanent location of a site for the County Buildings. Counter claims arose touching the title to the so-called Court House Square, and there were divisions as to whether the site should be on the east or west side of the river. In October, I85I, the Supervisors passed a resolution selecting the west side. In 1852 the county contracted for grounds a little south of Bridge, between Front and Court streets, and proceeded to erect thereon buildings for a jail and Sheriff's residence, and occupied the same until I872. In I86o this question of east and west side was submitted to vote at the April election, and the west side won it, but the decision was not final. Votes, either upon questions of location or upon propositions to raise money to erect buildings, came almost as regularly as the return of election day. At the April election in 1874 was submitted a proposition for raising $50,0ooo by loan to erect County Buildings on the Public Square. There was a small majority for it in the city, but in the county it was defeated by 4,305 negative against 3,130 affirmative votes. Januar3y 24, 1876, the county rented of \Villiam Leppig court room and offices at $8oo per annum, "for three years with the privilege of five years." The title of the county to the Public Square ground being in dispute, proceedings in chancery were instituted to test the matter, and in the summer of i 883 testimony was taken in the case. In these proceedings county and city alike took an interest, inasmuch as the city had received from Louis Campau, the original owner, a quit-claim of one-half the Square. The issue finally went to the Supreme Court of the State, where the decision was adverse to the county, but favorable to the city. Finally, at the October session in I887, the Board of Supervisors purchased, for the sum of $32,500, the property 220 feet front on Crescent Avenue, and extending south therefrom between Kent and Ottawa streets to include lots 122, 123, ii6, 117, To8, 109, and the north half of lots 102 and 103 of the Kent Plat; and determined that this be COUNTY OFF ICES!.b-BIT 1 IN Xo00. Treasurer, and for a portion of the time of the Judge of Probate and the Superintendents of the Poor. (That site had been offered free to the county in February, I854, by its then proprietors, together with a donation of $8oo toward the erection of a county building, which proposition was rejected by the Board of Supervisors.) Provision was also made for the erection of the building, by a / 1-//-1 IKENF COUNTY COURT HOUSE. 373 "designated and fixed upon as a site upon which to erect and maintain a Court House." At the January session, i888, the Supervisors submitted to the people a proposition to raise by loan, on the bonds of the county, $150,000 to build a Court House. The vote at the April election following of the electors of the county, was almost unanimous in favor of the loan. October 25, i888, a contract was made for the erection of the building, with the Western Construction Company, of Detroit, for the sum of The corner-stone was laid July 4, 1889, with formal ceremonies, and the work of building is in progress.. The structure has a frontage of 159 feet on Crescent avenue, and 124 feet each on Ottawa and Kent streets. From the grade line to the finial of the central tower it is to be 174 feet high. Of the builders, two of the contracting parties live outside the State, namely: Goodall Brothers, Peru, Indiana, stone work, and Streeter & Company, Chicago, iron work. The others are Grand Rapids men, to-wit: J. D. KENT C(ONTY ('CO'iRT HOUSE. $i6o,ooo; according to plans and specifications made by Architect Sidney J. Osgood. Work was immediately commenced on the foundations. The time set for the completion of the building is January i, I891. The bonds, amounting to $150,000, bearing five per cent. interest, have been disposed of for a premium of $7,727, to be deducted fromn the interest. The bonds are for $i,ooo each, and payable $io,ooo on the even numbered years and $20,000 on the odd, the last of them maturing January I5, I899. Boland, brick work; H. E. Doran, cat penter work, and Weatherly& Pulte, plumbing and steam heating. Building Committee: R. B. Loomis, Chairman; W. D. Frost, Secretary; J. W. Walker, James Hill, John T. Gould. JOSEPH D. BOLAND, mason, contractor and builder, was born in Ottawa, Province of Ontario, Canada, June I6, I850. His educational privileges were those of the common school, during the winter months, 374 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND) RAPIDS. until at the age of fifteen years he left it to enter upon active work, and began to learn the trade of a mason in i866. November 14, 1870, he came into Grand Rapids. Here he labored industriously as a journeyman for some time, and being a good workman and of steady, economical habits, laid the foundation for a wider sphere of activity and responsibility. In I873 he entered the field as a contractor and builder, which ever since has been his profession, and he has followed it with more than an ordinary degree of success; having been in that capacity interested in the construction of the following named public and private buildings: The Soldiers' Home; Kent County Court House; Plainfield Avenue, West Leonard Street and Center Street public school houses; St. James' school house (Catholic); St. Andrew's Cathedral; Presbyterian Church, corner of Lagrave and Island streets; Grace Church (Episcopal), corner of Lafayette and Cherry; Blodgett's block on South Ionia; Redmond's Opera House; Leonard block, Fulton and Spring streets; the residences of E. F. Uhl, R. B. Woodcock, John Caulfield, M. J. Smile}', and W. R. Shelby, in this city; also the' Club House and L. G. Mason's block at Muskegon. These structures are all testimonials to his skill and capabilities as a master builder. The Kent County Court House is not completed at this writing, but already shows the evidences of good taste, judgment, expertness, and handsome and durable workmanship. Strong and mus cular in build; in the full vigor of robust manhood; of easy, engaging frankness in speech and in business; with an established credit for honorable dealing and promptness in the execution of whatever he undertakes, Mr. Boland is recognized as a representative man and citizen, who has earned the respect and esteem of his fellow-men in this city of his adoption. Mr. Boland's parents were born in the county of Mayo, Ireland; his mother has passed away; his father is yet living, aged 67 years. He married in Grand Rapids, November 6, 1876, Mary Grady, youngest daughter of Henry P. Grady, a pioneer of Grand Rapids who died at the age of 84 years. Her mother, now living, is 80 years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Boland have a family of four children-two boys and two girls. Mr. Boland has kept aloof from official life and has held no public positions. KENT COUNTY JAIL. The first Kent County Jail was in one corner of the Court House on the Public Square, that was built in I838. Under an act of the Legislature, March 28, 1838, it was provided that prisoners apprehended in Ionia and Ottawa counties should be placed in the Kent county jail. After that building burned in 1844, until i854, the county was dependent upon rented quarters for a jail. For some years the cellar under a building which stood on the east side of Canal street, between Lyon and Pearl, was used for jail purposes. During the ten years after the original jail was burned, the county was to considerable expense for the keeping of its prisoners in Barry and Ottawa counties. In May, 1847, the Supervisors advertised for proposals to build a county jail, but nothing came of it. In March, I85I, proposals were invited for a site for a jail, and also for the building of one, and in May of the same year the County Clerk invited proposals for the building of a jail and Sheriff's residence. This resulted in the procurement of a site a few rods south of Bridge street, west of Front street, and the building thereon of a two-story frame residence for the Sheriff, with a jail at the rear, of heavy oak plank, sheathed on the inside with sheet iron. This was not a remarkably secure place of confinement, and there were several escapes therefrom. It was occupied and used, however, from the beginning of 1855 tintil March, 1872. The growth of criminal business at that period of our history is illustrated by an official report made in i858, fromn which it appears that between January i, 1857, and October 13, i858, there were I85 imprisonments in the building, under county and State authority, besides 2:5 city commitments for petty offenses against the ordinances. At the January session in I869, the Board of Supervisors decided to purchase for a jail site Block No. i of the Island addition, paying therefor the sum of $4,500, in five annual payments without interest. This property is situated on what was originally Island No. 2 in the river, which was. in i841, purchased of the Government by Louis Campau. The jail lot now appears upon the map as bounded by Louis, Campau and Pike streets and the KENT COUNTY JAIL. 375 river. At the April election in 1870 the electors of the county voted affirmatively upon a proposition to raise $40,000 to build a jail there. In June following the Board appointed a committee of five to procure plans and specifications and report at the October session. In October plans and specifications presented by J. B. Dibble were accepted and adopted, and a building cornmmittee appointed, consisting of Isaac Haynes, Arthur Wood, Foster Tucker, Ezra A. Hebard and Robert Hunter, Jr. The contract for the building was awarded to Davidson, Farr & Co., at $35,000. It was completed and accepted in March, i872; the entire cost, including grading, sewerage and other necessary work and the cost of the site, being nearly $50,000. The county took immediate possession; the old buildings on the west side were sold and the title to the old site there reverted to its original owners. The jail is a substantial brick structure upon a stone basement. The interior of the walls is sheathed with heavy boiler iron, where necessary for the safe keeping of prisoners. The cells are strongly built, mostly of iron; between these prison apartments and the corridors and halls are partitions of heavy iron lattice or picket work, and it is provided with the latest and most approved appliances, bars and locks. The residence and office of the Sheriff are in the building and neatly and substantially finished and furnished. Outwardly it is one among the prettiest blocks in the city, and the jail is the handsomest edifice now owned by the county (the Court House being yet unfinished). There have been some escapes of prisoners from this jail. In the last week of July, i875, six prisoners made their exit through a hole which they had dug in the wall. August 23, I878, four others escaped in a similar manner and by sawing off and breaking several bars of iron. The lining of the walls with boiler iron was done subsequently, in 1884, byAdolph Leitelt. There was a curious escape in the night of September 29, i886, of a prisoner who was confined there awaiting trial in the United States Court, charged with burglary of the postoffice at Hart. This person bore the names of Conklin, Morgan, and several other aliases. He walked out of the jail and went through a window in the residence part, but by what means the locks and doors were opened for him was a secret not divulged if anybody knew. He certainly left no hole in the wall other than the ordinary openings. He was afterward arrested at Alpena, Michigan, upon a charge of murder, and tried, convicted and hanged, August 3, i888, in Ohio. Almost without exception, prisoners escaping from this jail have been recaptured through the vigilance of the officers. The following summary of the jail business for the twelve'months from July i, i8{8, to June 30, 1889, inclusive, is extracted from the Sheriff's report to the Secretary of State: Number of prisoners in the jail July i, i888, i9. Received within the year, 950. Days prisoners confined during year, 5,985. Males committed to jail during year, 875 Females committed to jail during year, 75. Males under I8 committed to jail during year, 94. Females under i8 committed to jail during year, i8. Males committed charged with high crimes, 340. Females committed charged with high crimes, I9. Under I8 years of age committed charged with high crimes, 39. Males committed charged with minor offenses, 470. Females committed charged with minor offenses, 46. Under i8 years of age committed charged with minor offenses, 73. Witnesses detained in jail, '23. Debtors detained in jail within year, I2. Insane confined in jail within year, 40. Prisoners sent from jail to State prison, 9. Prisoners sent from jail to State House of Correction, 35. Prisoners sent from jail to Detroit House of Correction, 7. Prisoners sent to the reform school, 17. Prisoners sent from jail to Industrial Home for girls, 4. Remaining in jail June 30, I889, 39. Received during year who could not read, 43. Received during year who could not write, 54. Birthplace of males, exclusive of blacks: United States, 572; England, 41; Ireland, 66; Scotland, 8; Germany, 47; Holland, 40; Sweden, i; Canada, 13. Birthplace of females, exclusive of blacks: United States, 30o; Germany, 5; British America, 7 England, 4; Ireland, io; Holland 2. Number of blacks received: Males, 49, females, 9-58. Number of mulattoes received: Males, 30; females, 6-36. Number of Indians received: Males, 3; females, 2-5. Whites born in United States of foreign born fathers and mothers, 390; number with foreign-born mothers and native fathers, 27I; number with foreign-born fathers and native mothers, 205. Total received by Sheriff for board and keeping of prisoners, including attending courts, and locks and unlocks, $4,690.40. Paid for medical attendance, $125. 376 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Paid for clothing, $60. Paid for all other necessary supplies, $287. Total cost of maintaining jail during year, $5,152.40. Amount of traveling and other expenses incurred in arresting and taking prisoners to jail, $2,370.85. Amount expended taking prisoners to State Prison and Houses of Correction, $750. There is no city jail, but a lock-up attached to the Police Headquarters, for the temporary detention of persons under arrest and awaiting examination. T'IlE CITY HAIL. In the township and village days the local legislative body had no steady abiding place, and the offices were seldom or never all under the same roof where its sessions were held. The first town meeting was at the pioneer dwelling house, and the first Town Clerk's office was at the house of E. H. Turner. Executive meetings of the Town Board were held sometimes at the Town Clerk's office; but usually wherever was most convenient. After the incorporation of the Village in i838, the Board of Trustees constituted the Council or legislative body. The Clerk's office till I846 was at the bookstore of the Clerk, John W. Peirce. In I847-48 it was in Irving Hall Block; in I849 in the Rathbone Building. So also the office of the Village Treasurer was usually kept by that officer at his private office or place of business, and was moved no less than nine times during the village days. The Board of Trustees held their meetings most frequently at the Clerk's office, but often at other convenient places, such as the National Hotel, Dr. Shepard's office, or the drug store, and once, it is related, on the steps in front of the Mansion House. The Trustee meetings were rather irregularly held, an interval of several weeks or even months sometimes occurring in which there would be no meeting or no quorum and no business transacted. The city it was hoped, after its incorporation in I850, would be able to concentrate its offices for public business, and establish with some degree of permanency a place for holding the meetings of the Council. It so far succeeded in this as to keep them within the limits of the vicinity of Canal and Monroe streets, between Bridge and Division, with perhaps an occasional estray of the office of Controller, Marshal or Surveyor. But it was never able to gather them all under one roof until the completion of the City Hall Building in i888, and it still lacks rooms for its Police Court. The Common Council Room has probably been about as erratic in its wanderings as any of the offices. In i850 (the first Council) it was on the south side of Monroe, a little above Waterloo street; in I85i at the same place a portion of the time, and at the Mayor's office; in i852, April I3, at James Miller's office; April 20o and after at the office of Recorder Bement; in the Taylor building, foot of Monroe, I853-55; in Commercial Block, i856; on Lyon street, east of Arcade, in I858; in the postoffice building, Arcade, i859; in the McReynolds Block, i862; in Commercial Block, I863, and it had two or three other temporary abiding places. Afterward, in I872-73, it was in Randall Block, foot of Lyon street; then for a year or two in Powers' Opera House; in I876 moved to Morey's Block, Pearl street, where it remained until the City Hall was completed. The entrance to the Council Room when it was in the old Taylor Building, was up a narrow stairway from the sidewalk through the floor of the balcony. On one occasion of a large crowd in front of it, this balcony was overloaded with people and broke down, carrying with it the stairs. The Council was to meet the following evening, and the Clerk, Peter R. L. Peirce, was on hand early, as was his habit. Taking in the situation he procured a light ladder and mounted through the window into the Council Room. When the Aldermen appeared he stood peering complacently through his gold- bowed spectacles, and blandly invited them in; having thoughtfully pulled the ladder in after him. There was a scene of much merriment, the City Fathers seeming to be impressed with the urgency of their duties as never before. They were equal to the occasion, procured another ladder and entered, followed by many other citizens, so that there was an unusually full meeting that night. Until the city began to rent rooms for the other offices, in connection with Council Room, they also were more or less migratory; that of the Clerk being usually kept where was most convenient for his private business, but generally in or near the business center of the town. The Treasurer in the early years generally made use of the safe of some bulsiness house for keeping the funds, or THE CITY HALL. 377 later deposited them in the banks. There has never been a case of very serious defalcation or malfeasance in a Grand Rapids city office. The effort for the acquirement of a City Hall was a long and laborious one, slow in its progress toward success. It began as early as i854, when the first real estate purchase was made by the city for an Engine House, the Council having in contemplation the use of the second story for its meetings or for city offices. The ground was a parcel near the corner of Monroe and Spring streets, where the St. Denis block now stands, and was purchased of Jonathan F. Chubb for $450. This in i868 was traded to Thomas D. and Francis B. Gilbert for $500 and the east half of lot 9, section 8, Campau Plat. Ir i872 the latter was sold to William B. Led yard for $9,000, and at the same time the city bought of William Haldane part of lot i, section 9, Campau Plat, paying $ii,ooo therefor. In June, I873, the city purchased from Charles Shepard for $2,500 a strip ten feet wide adjoining this lot on the south. This site, at the southeast corner of Ottawa and Pearl streets, was sold to Daniel H. Waters, July 5, I883, for $I5,000, and on the same day the city used that money in the purchase of lots 59, 68 and the south half of lot 73, Kent Plat, at the corner of Ottawa and Lyon streets, being ioo by I25 feet of the site where the City Hall now stands. Subsequently the city purchased parcels on the north and east of this last mentioned property, as follows: September I5, I883, from S. A. Winchester, 50 by ioo feet, being part of lots 82 and 73, for the sum of $5,500. March i, i884, from John Bertsch, 50 by 150 feet, being the west half of lots 58, 69 and 72, for the sum of $7,500. July 3, 1884, from John Bertsch, 50 by I50 feet, being the east half of lots 58, 69 and 72, for the sum of $I4,000; this purchase included a brick dwelling that originally cost several thousand dollars. May 6, I885, from Anthony Bodelack, 25 by i00oo feet of lot 83, for which the city paid $3,00o. Thus was secured the site for the City Hall, with a depth of I75 feet and a frontage on Lyon from Ottawa to Ionia of 220 feet. The construction of a City Hall was first declared a necessary public improvement May io, I873. The project then was to build on the lot at the corner of Ottawa and 31 Pearl streets. Plans were invited for a building 60 by 90o feet in size and not to exceed a cost of $60,ooo, and those offered by Charles H. Marsh were adopted by the Board of Public Works, together with estimates, which were submitted to the Council and by that body laid on the table March 7, I874. There the matter rested until January, I879, when Mayor Henry S. Smith, in a special message to the Council, recommended the construction of a building on that site, to cost not more than $20,000. and this recommendation was repeated by Mayor Letellier in September of the same year. New plans and estimates were submitted in December, but this project was carried no further. Agitation of the subiect was renewed in I88o and again in I88I, but without practical result until after the consummation of the purchase of the present site. July 12, i883, the Council again and for the last time declared the erection of a City Hall a necessary public improvement, and the Board of Public Works were instructed to procure plans for a building, to cost from $1oo,00000 to $i50,ooo. The question was again considered by the Common Council March 3I, i884, when a resolution offered by Alderman Brenner to submit to a vote of the electors a proposition to raise by loan $Ioo00,ooo to build a City Hall was, on motion of Alderman Gilbert, amended to read $I50,ooo. Thus amended it was passed, and the proposition was submitted to the electors April 7, I883, when the loan was authorized; the majority in its favor being 3,278 votes. The Board of public works thereupon issued an invitation to competing architects for plans, limiting the number to six. Plans were received October i, i884, and on October 2I the Board unanimously adopted those of E. E. Myers, of Detroit, and made the award to him. When the working drawings of the proposed building were completed, February 4, I885, the Board advertised for proposals for the erection of the building. Six bids were received, which were opened March I9, I885, and on the following day rejected and the work readvertised. Bids solicited by the second advertisement were opened April 9. That of W. D. Richardson, of Springfield, Illinois, at $185,641.68, was found lowest, but as that sum exceeded the amount voted, the 378 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. bids were laid upon the table. The bidding having demonstrated that the building as called for by the plans could not be secured for the sum provided, $I50,000, the Board submitted the facts to the Council to determine whether an award should be made, or plans for a less expensive building obtained. A special meeting of the Council was thereupon called for April io, and an invitation extended to citizens to be present. There was a large meeting, and those present unanimously voted for the erection of a City Hall after the plans adopted by the Board of Public Works; also that the contract be awarded. Immediately the Board reassembled, and awarded the contract for the erection of a City Hall as called for by the plans of Mr. Myers, to W. D. Richardson, for the sum of $185,641.68. This contract was approved by the Council April 11, i885. The work was begun in May. The first estimate upon the contract was certified by the Board June 13, i885, and settlement was had and final payment made to the contractor August 25, i888. The total cost of the building and grounds up to the time of its acceptance and dedication by the city, September 26, I888, is itemized as follows: Contract price........................$185,641 68 Extra work ordered................. 3,494 12 Architect for plans.................... ),000 00 Tiling floors................... 8,899 96( Heating apparatus and appliances..... 11,909 80 Stone walks and coping............... 10,446 1.5 Mantels and grates.................... 1,888 10 Gas fixtures.......................... 3,135 21 Elevator and connections.............. 3,168 58 Tower clock........................ 2,231 61 Bronze work......................... 1,163 12 Inspectors of work................... 5,256 00 Painting............................ 461 15 Oiling floors......................... 364 48 Printing bills......................... 292 87 Grading, sodding, sewers, etc.......... 1,332 63 Cost of furniture...................... 19,203 15 Value of real estate................... 50,000 00 T otal............................$314,888 61 The laying of the corner-stone of the City Hall took place September 9, i885, with Masonic ceremonies. There was a long procession, in which the members of the Board of Public Works and other city officers and boards, officers of the courts, military companies, bands, representatives of the Masonic fraternity, the architect and contractor for the Hall, and a large retinue of citizens took part. There was a great concourse of people present. The exercises were opened with prayer by the Rev. Charles Fluhrer. George W. Thayer, President of the Board of Public Works, delivered an address. Then followed the formal ceremony of laying the stone, under the auspices and according to the ritual of the Masonic fraternity, conducted by the Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge of MichiganJames H. Farnumi, Grand Master. The list of articles placed in a sealed copper box and deposited in the corner-stone included: A copy of the City Charter; a copy of the City Ordinances; reports of the city officers for the previous year; report of the Board of Public Works; report of the City Surveyor on water supply; reports of the Board of Education, and of Fire and Police Commissioners for i885; City Directory and Michigan Manual for I885; History of Kent County; copies of the daily newspapers; copies of documents relating to the City Hall; programme of exercises for laying, the corner-stone, and a variety of historic papers contributed by the Masonic fraternity in reference to the various branches of that Order in Grand Rapids and the State of Michigan. At the formal acceptance and dedication of this building, September 26, I888, it was thronged during the day by thousands of admiring citizens and visitors. Contractor Richardson, with a few remarks, turned the structure over to President Briggs; the latter in turn formally presented it to the Mayor and Common Council, and Mayor Weston, delivering a short address in behalf of the city, formally accepted the H all and declared it opened for public use. Preceding this ceremony was a street procession of city officers, departments, boards and Common Council; ex-officers of the city; officers of the State and United States and of courts; county officers and Supervisors, and officers of other cities and villages. The Hon. Charles I. Walker, first Treasurer of the village of Grand Rapids in I838, was present by invitation and delivered an address, giving interesting reminiscences of the early days in this place. Thus at length the city was at home in a building of its own, and relieved of the burden of rents for public offices. The architect, contractors, inspectors and superintendent of the work were: E. E. Myers, Detroit, Michigan, architect; W. D. 1~. THE CITY HALL. 379 Richardson, Springfield, Illinois, contractor; Weatherly & Pulte, Grand Rapids, Michigan, mantels, grates and gas fixtures; Detroit Metal and Heating Works, steam heating apparatus and fixtures; E. Ferrand & Co., Detroit, tile work and bronze figures; Alex. Matheson, Grand Rapids, stone walks and coping; Howard Watch Co., tower clock; W. E. Hale & Co., Chicago, elevator; Andrews & Co., Chicago, bronze work; A. H. Fowle, Grand Rapids, interior This work was done under the direction of the Common Council. The City Hall has -a frontage of I6o feet on Lyon street, and is ninety-six feet deep. From the grade line to the finial top of the main tower, it is I63 feet high. The main entrance is at the center of the Lyon street front, and there are also entrances from Dttawa and Ionia streets. In the basement and upon the first and second floors there is a corridor extending through the center THE CITY HAI. —BEGI'N IN 1885; COMPLETEI) IN I888..nze work. The principal sub-contract-. 3 were: Interior wood finish, Bennett & Osbun, Grand Rapids; slate roof, Knisley & Miller, Chicago; plaster and stucco work, Dodge & Carey, Grand Rapids; plumbing, Weatherly & Pulte, Grand Rapids; superintendents of work, John S. Farr, and Charles Woodard. The furniture was supplied by the Phcenix Furniture Company, after designs by D. W. Kendall. of the building from end to end, fifteen feet wide. GEORGE WASHINGTON THAYER is one of those men of sturdy energy, strong, practical sense and positive convictions, who represent in their best elements the influence of New England teaching and training, of Yankee character and heredity, in Grand Rapids. Mr. Thayer was born in 380 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS Burlington, Vermont, September 27, I827. His father, Nathaniel Thayer, was a native of Massachusetts, and is described as "a man of powerful physique and great strength of character." His mother was Pamelia, daughter of Asa Lyon, of Shelburne, Vermont. The Lyons were an important family in that State, and representatives of the family who have made Michigan their home, of whom a large number have been among the most respected and useful members of the communities of which they were a part in Grand Rapids, Detroit, and other portions of the State. She is described as a "woman of strong sense and equable temperament; and, although quiet and retiring in disposition, exhibited a lively interest in the temporal and spiritual welfare of her family and friends." Mr. Thayer remained in Vermont until nearly eighteen years of age, and, like most of the youth of his generation, struggled heroically for an education, and made the most of his opportunities in the schools and academy at Johnson and at Burlington in the Green Mountain State. He laid the foundation then, in habits of reading and thought, of what has since become a most serviceable education. In May, 1845, at the suggestion of his uncle, the Hon. Lucius Lyon, one of Michigan's earliest and most honored representatives in the United States Senate, then Surveyor-General Northwest of the Ohio for the United States Government, le came to Grand Rapids, remaining till August of that year, when he was called to Detroit to join a party formed by his uncle for the purpose of making some explorations in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, then a veritable wilderness, in a portion of which, Dr. Douglass Houghton, the noted geologist, was then making a linear, topographical and geological survey, of that region which has since become so vastly important to the whole country in its mineral and other wealth. The party coasted in an open boat from Sault Ste. Marie to Copper Harbor, at which point Dr. Houghton and party were intercepted, and where, pursuant to a previous understanding, Mr. Thayer left his uncle's party to.join that of Dr. Houghton on the public surveys, his purpose at that time being to fit himself, under the instructions of Dr. Houghton, for the profession of Surveyor and Engineer. The untimely death of his patron, by drowning, in October of that year, changed his plans. Though the duties that then devolved on him, and the privations incident to such an undertaking, were arduous in the extreme, he faithfully and creditably acquitted himself of them all, and gained an experience, a selfreliance and a continuity of purpose that have distinguished him in all his subsequent career. He also found that intimate association with so eminent a scientist and so patriotic a man as Dr. Houghton, was a liberal education in itself, and so long as he lives, will he prize the memories of that association; while the knowledge he thus acquired has proved invaluable to him. Upon his return to Detroit after the expedition, he accepted a subordinate position in his uncle's office, and by merit won promotion until he was chief clerk in that most important Government office, and had the fullest confidence and esteem, not only of the Surveyor-General and the Interior Department of the Government, but also of the large force of his subordinates in the office. He had become attached to Michigan, and when, in I856, the office of Surveyor-General northwest of the Ohio was removed from Detroit to St. Paul, he resigned his position, after three months services to organize the new office, rather than leave the State. He engaged in business in Detroit for a time, but in i86i came to Grand Rapids to find a permanent home, for his uncle had had great faith in this city, having considerable investments here, and a number of his relatives already lied here. On coming here he engaged in trade, retail and jobbing, as a grocer, and devoted his energies to his business until he retired in I888 from mercantile life. Though it was never wholly congenial to him, though he never believed that he was specially adapted to his occupation, he acquired a modest competence and achieved a reputation for integrity and perfect fairness in business life of which any merchant might justly be proud. Mr. Thayer, though one of the most modest, unassuming men in the city, though never given to self-seeking, is so honored for his integrity, ability, rare good judgment and judicious energy in whatever devolves upon him, he has been called to serve his community in a variety of public positions, in all of which he has justified the expectations of his friends and compelled the respect and good opinion of such as BIOGRAPHY OF GEORGE WASHINGTON THAYER 381 differed from him on questions of politics or policy. He served the city at one time (in I864-65), as its Clerk. In the municipal year, i877-78, he was Mayor of the city. In I879 he was appointed a member of the Board of Public Works of the city, and served in that most important executive body for nine successive years ---longer than any one else ever has-and nearly all that time as President of the Board. He was chosen the first President of the Western Michigan Agricultural and Industrial Society, when that Association was organized in April, I879, and held the office continuously for five successive years, until he felt constrained to insist that he had given his share of energy and time to the society, and refused a re-election; but after a rest of six years he has been compelled to resume his relations with those most important interests, having been again unanimously chosen President in i890-a sufficient commentary on his great worth to the public in that position. He was for several years Manager of the first Street Railroad enterprise in this city, and proved that good business methods achieve success, and serve the public well in that sort of relation. He is now President of the North Park Street Railway, one of the suburban lines elsewhere described in this volume. In his relations to the municipality, just hinted at above, Mr. Thayer won an enviable distinction, and deserves the lasting gratitude of his fellow-citizens, for most faithful, able and conscientious service. His official term as Mayor was so cleanly, creditable and productive of so many good results, it was but natural to call him to the honorary and onerous position of member of the Board of Public Works, which he entered upon in I879, the next year after he retired from the Mayoralty. During the nine consecutive years in which he there served the city, many of its most important public works were devised or carried forward. That body has exclusive care of the city water works, of street improvements, of sewers, of the erection of all municipal structures save school houses, and of construction of bridges. The admirable City Hall, one of the finest and best buildings of its character on the Continent, is in no small degree a monument to his influence over his fellow-citizens, to his good taste, to his official zeal and probity, to his watchfulness and care-a reflection in enduring material of his solidity of character, his dignity and worth as a man and an official-for men's constructions are exponents of themselves. The bridges over Grand River are other examples of the work of the Board under his administration as President, and the modern engine houses of the Fire Department tell a similar story. A vast amount of other public work attests the value of his services to the city, and coming years will undoubtedly prove his public papers and utterances of more and more value, viewed in the light of experience. Mr. Thayer's political affiliations have always been with the Democratic party; yet, though he is a man of profound convictions, and adheres to parties or measures only because he believes them more useful or serviceable to humanity, he is not in any narrow or bigoted sense a partisan. Years ago, soon after making his acquaintance, the writer said to him: "Mr. Thayer, what is your religion?" A rare smile lit up his usually grave face as he replied, as a Yankee may, with another question: "How do you know that I have any religion, as you call it?" The answer made was this: "Because you live it. You have never talked about it to me, but it is perfectly apparent that positive religious convictions control your action and life." That was true then, and the many years that have since elapsed have intensified the feeling then expressed. He embraced the religious views expressed in the teachings and doctrines of Emanuel Swedenborg while yet a young man, and has devoted his life since to a study of them and an exemplification of his faith. He is one of the strongest and most devoted members of the local New Church. In personal appearance Mr. Thayer is rather above the average height, of full habit and featuresit can well be believed that he is the son of a man of "powerful physique." His portrait does not flatter him. He is of a nervous sanguine temperament, and of fair complexion and light eyes. He is grave, almost severe, in repose, reticent in manner and most quiet and domestic in his tastes; but when with friends, or discussing some topic in which he feels a deep interest, he is earnest, genial, persuasive in manner, his enthusiasm lights up his eyes and face, and he is felt to be indeed a rare friend, an honest counselor, a high- minded, truly relig HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. ous man. October io, i849, Mr. Thayer narried Anna Grace Cubley, daughter of John Cubley, who came to this country from Derbyshire, England. To them four sons were born, of whom three, grown to man's estate, are yet living. Mrs. Thayer died in I877, and Mr. Thayer afterward, in i88i, married Mrs. Marshall, nee Sherwood, a native of Onondaga county, New York-a daughter of Amos Sherwood, also a native of New York-who with him yet lives to assist in building up good influences and beautifying our city. CHARLES I. WALKER, one of the earliest citizens of Grand Rapids, was born it Butternuts, Otsego county, New York, April 25, 1814. He comes from an old New England family and has inherited from his ancestors many of the qualities needed to command success amid the obstacles and hardships of a new and growing country. His grandfather, Ephriam Walker, was born in I735, and married Priscilla Rawson, a lineal descendant of Edward Rawson, who graduated from Harvard College in I653, and for nearly forty years was Secretary of the Colony of Massachusetts, and while holding this office took a bold stand against the usurpation of Governor Dudley. Stephen Walker, the father of C. I. Walker, was born in Providence, Rhode Island, in I765. In I790 he married Polly Campbell, who died in I795, leaving two children. In the year following he married Lydia Gardner, a Quakeress, of Nantucket, who became the mother of eleven children, of whom C. I. Walker was the ninth in order of birth. Stephen Walker was a house-builder, and is described in the "Book of Walkers" as a "man of fair abilities, sterling good sense, honest, temperate and remarkably industrious. He labored for the good of his family, and his ambition was to train them in the path of honor, usefulness and piety." His wife "was strong in person and character; a woman of inexhaustible energy and resources, and the care of thirteen children set lightly upon her." In the year I812 the family removed to Butternuts, where C. I. Walker passed his boyhood. He received his primary education at the district school of his native village, supplemented by a term at a private school at Utica, New York. When sixteen years of age he began to teach school, and a few months later he entered a store connected with a cotton mill at Cooperstown, New York. Leaving this employment in I834, he made his first journey to the west, going as far as St. Joseph, Michigan. Early in i835 he returned to Cooperstown and there engaged in mercantile business, but sold out the following year to remove to the West. After having visited Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Iowa.he finally settled at Grand Rapids, where he became a land and investment agent and built up a good business; but the suspension of specie payment, and the period of financial depression that followed, compelled him to discontinue. In December, 1836, he was elected a member and was chosen Secretary of the Territorial Convention to consider the question of the admission of Michigan into the Union. He was subsequently for two years editor and publisher of the Grand River Titecs, the only newspaper then published in Grand Rapids. He was a member of the first Board of Trustees for the Village of Grand Rapids, elected in I838, and is the only surviving member of that Board. In the same year he was elected Justice of the Peace, and left journalistic life and began the study of law under the direction of the late Chief Justice Martin. In I840 he was elected a member of the State House of Representatives from the district comprising Kent, Ionia and Ottawa counties and the territory to the northward not yet included in any county organization. In the fall of I84i he removed to Springfield, Massachusetts, in order to complete his law studies. He remained in Springfield until the spring of 1842, and then studied law under the preceptorship of Dorr Bradley, of Brattleboro, Vermont. In the following September he was admitted to the bar and entered into partnership with Mr. Bradley. In I845 he removed to Rockingham, Vermont, where he succeeded to the business and practice of the Hon. Daniel Kellogg, who had been elected Justice of the Supreme Court. Three years later he went to Bellows Falls, Vermont. Here he obtained a large practice, extending into the adjoining counties, bt,' he West attracted him, and in I85I he returned to Michigan, settling in Detroit, where he has built up a large and lucrative practice. Soon after his second coming to Michigan, Mr. Walker began to direct his attention to the early K BIOGRAPHY OF CHARLES I. WALKER. 383 history of his adopted State. In I854 he was elected President of the Young Men's Society, which at that time wielded a strong influence. During I854 he delivered the opening lecture of the society course, taking for his subject "The Early History of Michigan," in the preparation of which he was assisted by General Cass. In I857 he took an active part in the reorganization of the Historical Society of Michigan. Among his historical papers are "The Early Jesuits of Michigan," "Michigan from 1796 to I805," and "The Civil Administration of General Hull." In 187i he read before the Historical Society of Wisconsin' a paper on "The Northwest Territory During the Revolution." It aroused wide attention from the many interesting facts it contained never before printed; was published in the third volume of the Wisconsin Historical Collection, and has since been republished in the collections of the Pioneer Society of Michigan. Mr. Walker has taken a warm and active interest in educational matters and has ever given his voice and influence to the broadest and most liberal provisions in all matters relating to educational affairs. In the spring of 1859 he became a professor in the law department of the University of Michigan, which position he ably filled for fifteen years, and then failing health and the demands of business forced him to resign. Mr. W\alker was appointed by Governor Crapo, in I867, Judge of the Wayne County Circuit Court to fill a vacancy caused by the death of Judge B. F. Witherell. After having held office ten months he resigned in order to give his attention to his practice. Under a joint resolution of the Legislature in I869 he was appointed by Governor Baldwin one of the Commissioners to examine the penal, reformatory and charitable institutions in Michigan, visit such institutions in other States, and report the results to the Governor. Their report, which was based upon extensive examina tions, led to the passage of the law creating a Board of State Charities, of which Mr. Walker was appointed a member and acted as Chairman many years. He represented the Board at the National Prison Reform Congress at Baltimore in 1872, and at St. Louis in I874. So thoroughly has he studied the great problems of charity and correction that he is recognized authority in various branches of these important questions. He was reared in the faith of the Quakers and observed their forms until he left home. He then became a member of the Presbyterian Church. When at Grand Rapids he assisted in organizing an Episcopal Church, was one of its officers and a regular attendant while residing here. He has since become a member of the First Congregational Church of Detroit. In politics, Mr. Walker has ever been a Democrat. He is a strong believer in the morality and advisability of free trade, and an equally strong opponent of the centralization of power. "He was an unswerving anti-slavery man and was in sympathy with the Free Soil party in I848, and supported Van Buren. He was a hearty supporter of the Government war measures from i86I to I865, and in the war meetings held in that critical time to raise funds or volunteers to prosecute the war he was a frequent and influential speaker. Personally he has a pleasant, agreeable manner, with inflexible integrity and strong common sense. His life has been characterized by faithfulness to every trust committed to him. His private life has been without reproach, and in public affairs he has been unusually active, influential and useful." He married in i838 Mary Hinsdale, sister of Judge Mitchell Hinsdale, a pioneer of Kalamazoo county She died in May, i864. In May, i865 he married Ella Fletcher, daughter of the Rev. Dr. Fletcher, of Townshend, Vermont. By his first wife he had one son, and by his second two children. [See page I 115.] CHAPTER XXXIV. KENT COUNTY GOVERNMENT. GRAND RAPIDS being the county seat and the center of official business for Kent county, historic lists of the principal county officers properly come in here. They have been carefully gathered and arranged, as closely as possible to correctness even in details; though the destruction of the county records, some thirty years ago, has rendered the work rather difficult. This chapter will be useful for reference, and also an aid to many in recalling to mind various events and incidents connected with the names given of officers and years of their terms of service. SHERIFFS. Ezra Reed, I837-38; Aaron Russell, i839-40; Harry Eaton, I841-42; Solomon Withey, I843-44; C. P. Babcock, I845-46; DeWitt Shoemaker, i847-48; Harvey K. Rose, i849-50; Leonard Snyder, i851-54; Daniel S. T. Weller, i855-56; Anson N. Norton, i857-60; Sluman S. Bailey, i86i-64; William Thornton, i865-66; Sluman S. Bailey, I 867-68; Jesse F. Wyckoff, I 869-72; Isaac Haynes, I873-76; Freeling W. Peck, I877-80; Isaac F. Lamoreaux, i88i-82; Lyman T. Kinney, i883-86; Loomis K. Bishop, I887-. COUNTY CLERKS. Stephen Wilson, 1837-38; Charles H.Taylor, i839-46; Samuel R. Sanford, i847-48; Reuben H. Smith, I849-54; Peter R. L. Peirce, i855-68; Daniel McNaughton, i869 -72; Hobart H. Chipman, i873-76; Frederick S. Clark, I877-82; Orland H. Godwin, I883-86; Cornelius L. Harvey, I887-. PETER RANDOLPH LIVINGSTON PEIRCE was a prominent citizen of Grand Rapids for upward of a quarter of a century. He was born at Geneseo, New York, May 25, i82i, and was a son of Colonel John Peirce, who moved from Virginia to West ern New York about the time of the War of I812. From Geneseo, in I836, Peter removed to Detroit, where for a time he read law, and thence in i840 came to Grand Rapids. Here he again studied law in the office of George Martin (afterward Chief Justice of the State Supreme Court), meantime keeping a bookstore, and was one of the active members of the Grand Rapids Lyceum, the debating club of the period. In i843 he removed to Cincinnati and engaged in mercantile trade. While there he became interested in temperance movements, and wrote a history of the Order of the Sons of Temperance in Ohio, of which oo00,000 copies were published and circulated. He also contributed many articles to the newspapers of that city, and formed a habit of writing for the newspaper press, which he kept up through life; his productions in that line being always sprightly and readable as well as useful. From Cincinnati Mr. Peirce returned to Grand Rapids in i85o, and followed mercantile business some five years. He had the eye and the taste of an artist, with talent in architectural draughting; in which he indulged from time to time; and many residences and other buildings, some of them yet standing, were erected from plans of his design and drawing. In each of the years i853-54-55 he was chosen City Clerk, serving three terms. In I854 he was elected Clerk of Kent County, and re-elected to the same office until he served seven consecutive terms, running through fourteen years. In that position he won universal commendation, and was called the Model County Clerk of the State. As an officer he was methodical, expert, prompt and exact in his records and in the details of the public business. He was chosen to the State Senate for the term of i869-70, and there his services were indefatigable and efficient, to the great benefit of the cause of education; cJ4 'kt4 ap W(I 0 KENT COUNTY GOVERNMENT. 385 he being chairman of the Committee on Education, and;-fluential i!. rocuring the passage of the A t abolishing 'he rate bill and making t' ommon schools free; also successful in urging liberal appropriations for the State University. Mr. Peirce was elected Mayor of Grand Rapids in I873 and also in each of the years i875 and I876. From about i870 for some six years he was:onnected with the La; ' DeFartment of the 3rand Rapids and I. na Railroad Company, and compiled a historic and descriptive map of the country comprising its land grant, which was widely circulated, at home and in Europe. March I9, i877, he was appointed Postmaster at Grand Rapids, which office he held at t\c lime of his death. Through all his 1 ie Mr. Peirce was an active, industrious, public- spirited citizen, and in ocial circles remarkable for his cheerful, lively and happy disposition and mirthful mind, which made him a welcome guest at all gatherings. During the War for the Union he was active among the foremost in promoting enlistments, and generously alive in aiding needy families of the gallant men who went to the front, giving liberally of his own means in numerous instances. He A..s very popular with the soldiers and worked in their interests at all times. He was popular as a lecturer, and as a speaker at public gatherings, and it was said of him that for eighteen consecutive years he delivered an address at some Fourth of July celebration. His happy manner of spicing with wit and anecdote and humor 'is fervid patriotism, earnest appeal and i ruction, always insured him a large and ell pleased audience. In religious sent ient Mr. Peirce was an Episcopalian of li! eral views; was a member of that denomi, ation after 1843, and a vestryman of St. Mark's Church in Grand Rapids for eighteen years. In its behalf he manifested a zealous interest, and managed many trusts with scrupulous fidelity. Politically, from its organization, he was an active, earnest and enthusiastic adherent of the Republican party. Mr. Peirce married, in May, i843, Ellen E. Steele (daughter of Chester Steele of Hinesburgh, Vt.), who died in January, i858; and again in April, i85, Cora, daughter of Benjamin H. and Maria T. Mitchell of Poughkeepsie N. Y., who sui rvives him and is yet a resident of Grand Rapids. In domestic life, his was a 35 happy household.. Mr. Peirce died at his home, November I2, i878, leaving a widow, two sons and a daughter. Few in their lives had more or warmer friends than he, and few or none are more sincerely mourned when the death summons comes. He was a member of the Bar of Kent county, but never entered into general practice as an attorney. As a citizen and as a public officer, Peter R. L. Peirce was a man of spotless integrity. His life was one of influence and usefulness. A^GISTERS OF DEEDS. Jacob Barns, I837-38; E. W. Barnm 1842, to fill vacancy; Benjamin Smith, 1843 44; George H. White, I845-46; John M. Fox, I847-52; Fred. WV. Worden, 1853-56; Leonidas S. Scranton, i857-60; John R. Stewart, i86i-66; William G. Beckwith, I867-72; Simeon Hunt, I873-76; Loomis K. Bishop, I877-82; Henry F. McCormick, i883-88; Nathaniel Rice, i889-. COUNTY TREASURERS. Hiram HIinsdill, I837-38; Aaron Dikeman, I839-43; Sidney Smith, i843-44; James Davis, i845-48; Solomon 0. Kingsbury, 1849-52; Nelson Robinson, I853-56; Daniel C. McVean, I857-58; Thompson I. Daniels, 1859-66; George Young, Jr., i867 -72; Henry Bremer, I873-76; John A. S. Verdier, I877-82; Andrew J. Stebbins, i883 -86; Charles D. Stebbins, i887-88; Sherman T. Colson, 1889 -. ANDREW JACKSON STEBBINS was born in Madison county, New York, October 14, I840. In October, i846, he came to Michigan with his father, Gaius P. Stebbins, who settled in Sparta, Kent county, two miles south of Sparta village. Charles D. Stebbins now owns and lives on the farm first taken up by his father, on Section 26 in Sparta township. Andrew J. in youth attended the common school. When the War of the Rebellion came on, he enlisted in Company B, Twenty-first Michigan Infantry, and went into the service; had charge of medical supplies at Hospitals No. i and No. 4, Nashville, Tennessee, and was hospital steward until the close of the war. After his return he worked on a farm two years, and then engaged in the lumber trade; for several years owning and Operating mills on Section i, Sparta, known as 386 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Stebbins' Mills; also lumbered several years for William T. Powers. He then built an elevator at Sparta Center, and bought grain for some time. Afterward, in I88o, he went to Dakota, and spent a year at Deadwood, lumbering there for XV. T. Powers. Mr. Stebbins is mainly a self-educated man, but has always taken great interest in schools. At his mills in Sparta, after two years of hard work in that behalf, and several defeats, he succeeded in securing the organization of a school district formed of territory taken from the four towns of Sparta, Algoma, Tyrone and Solon; also in having a good school house built, and nicely furnished with patent seats and desks. While he lived there he managed to have at least nine months of school each year; often making personal contributions for the maintenance of good schools, and frequently giving presents to the small scholars for constant attendance and faithful work in their studies. For several years in Sparta he held the office of Justice of the Peace. In i882 he was elected Treasurer of Kent county, since which time he has resided in Grand Rapids, and was re-elected in i884, thus holding the office four years. In i889 he was elected a member of the Common Council-Alderman from the Fourth \Vard. Mr. Stebbins married, in I866, Mary V. Gillam of Sparta. They have three children-Miss Elsie, born in i869, teacher; Orson D., born in I870, book-keeper, and Leo A. J., born in i888. Politically, Mr. Stebbins is a Democrat. He was a charter member of Kent Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and High Priest therein until he removed to Grand Rapids. For many years he has owned a fine farm in Sparta, but never lived on it. At present he is engaged in the real estate and insurance business, in partnership with Charles A. Robinson. COUNTY SURVEYORS. Charles Shepard, i843; William Slawson, i845-46; Volney W. Caukin, I847-48; William Slawson, 1849-52; James Dockeray, 1853-54; Ezekiel Howell, i855-56; David R. Smith, 1857-60; John F. Tinkham, I861-62; Edward L. Briggs, I863-66; Riley Smith, i867-68; Robert S. Jackson, i869-74; Dorr Skeels, I875-82; Homer A. Collar, i883-84; Emory W. Muenscher, i885-86; Elias C. Martin, I887-88; Dorr Skeels, I889-. THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS. The office of County Commissioner was not an abiding one. The first election of members for that Board was held in November, i838. By an act approved February 10, I842, the Legislature abolished the office, and established a Board of Supervisors instead. Those who served on the Kent county Board of Commissioners were: Robert Hilton, Rodney Robinson, Sylvester Granger, William B. Hawks, and William H. Withey. The Board of Supervisors is the legislative body of the county, and has supervision of all its public affairs. Below are given the names and terms of service of these guardians of the public welfare, by towns and wards: Ada-Sidney Smith, 1838-40o; Rix Robinson, I841; Norman Ackley, I842; Sidney Smith, I843: Rix Robinson, 1844; Amos Chase, I845; Nelson Robinson, 1846-52; Emory F. Strong, January to April, i853; Gurden Chapel, I853; John H. Withey, I854-56; Peter McLean, I857-58; Moses 0. Swartwout, 1859; Peter McLean. i86o-65; William H. Mekeel, i866; Hiram A. Rhodes, I867; Peter McLean, I868-69; John T. Headley, i870; Peter McLean, i871-74: Rudolphus G. Chaffee, I875-76; John T. Headley, I877; Peter McLean, i878; John T. Headley, I879-80; Peter McLean, i88i; Walter S. Plumb, I882-84; John T. Headley, I885-86; E. B. Clements, I887; John Headley, I888; Edward B. Clements, I886. Algoma —Smith Lapham, 1849-52; Jaines Mosher, i853; Smith Lapham, i854; George H. White, I855; Morgan Allen, I856; Smith Lapham, 1857; James Mosher, i858; William Thornton, I859-60; Morgan Allen, I861-64; Horatio N. Stinson, I865-66; Walter Chipman, I867; Horatio N. Stinson, i868-76; Neal McMillan, i877; Oscar House, I878; John T. Gould, I879-80; Nathan Gould, i88i; John T. Gould, I882-89. Alpine-Edward Wheeler, I847; William H. Withey, I848-50; Alonzo Brewer, i851; Charles T. Hills, I852; John B. Colton, I853-55; Reuben H. Smith, i856; Lyman Murray, I857; Reuben H. Smith, i858; Lyman Murray, I859-65; Isaac Haynes, I866-72; Henry D. Wedge, i873; Lyman Murray, i874; Henry D. \Vedge, 1875; KENIT COUNTY GOVERNMENT.38 381 Lyman Murray, 1876; Norton Fitch, i877 -82; James Hill, 1883-89. Bowne-Roswell F. Tyler, i849-52; A. C. Hill, 1853; Daniel C. McVean, i854-56; James H. Truax, i857-58; Luke Strickland, i859-6i; Jared Miller, 1862; Luke Strickland, i863-64; James H. Truax, i865-67; Abner D. Thomnas, i868-70; A. Lewis Coons, i87I1-72; Abner D. Thomas, 1873-74; MV. T. Remington, 1875; A. Lewis Coons, 1876; Abner D. Thomas, i877-79; David M. Skidmore, i88o; James C. Johnson, i88i-85; Martin A. Holcomb, i886;, Peter J. Sinclair, 1-887 -88; Williani E. Davis, 1 889. Byron-G_'icleon H. Gordon, 1836; George NV. Scranton, i837; Julius C. Abel, 1838: Robert Howlett, i839-4I; W. R. Godwin, 12-43; Eli P. Crossett, i844; NV. 1R. Godwin, 1845-47; Elijah McKenney, 1848 -49; Jerry Boynton, i850; James M. Pelton. 185I1-54; Amos B. Smith, i855; jam-es MI. PelIton, i856-6o; S. S. Towner, i86i; James M. Pelton, 1862-63; L-oy\al Palmer, 1864 66; William P'. W~hitney', 1867-74; Samuel Tohey. 1875-77; WVilliam P. Whitney, 1878; Samuel Tobey, 1879-82; Byron McNeal, i883-87;, James S. Toland, i888; Moses Rosenberg-, 1889. Caledonia -John P. McNaughton I840-4I; Norman Foster, I842-43; Roswell F. Tyler, WVilliami Gibson. 1844;- John A. Cornell, 1845; Julstu's G. [Beach, 1 846-7 R~euben H. Smith, 1848; WVilliam H. B~rown, 1849 -53; Lymnan Gerould, 1854-56; Zabin \Vilfiams, 187 \V"illiami H. Brown. 185-9 WVarren S. H ale, i 86o; William H. Brown. 1861-62; William I. Wood0(, i863-64: Adam B. Sherk, i865-67; \Villiam I. WVood, i868; Marcus Buell, 1869; Adam B. Sherk, i870; Robert S. Jackson, i871; \Villiam 1. Wood, 1872; Martin WVhitney, I873-76; Austin XV. Hill, 1877;' Marcus Buell, 1878; Shermian T. Colson, 1879-88; Alfred NV. Stow.i889. Cannon-Andrew W~atson, 1 846; Hugh E. McKee, 1847; Norman Acklev,- 1848; Jamnes Dockeray, 1895;Andrew \Vatson, i1851; Timothy E. WVetmore, i852; James Dockra,85-54; Daniel C.Pat 1855; Benjamin Davi'es, i856-6i; George XW. Van Every, 1862; James Dockerav, i863-65; Asa P. Ferry, i866-70:. James D5ockeray, i871 -75;1 Loomnis K. Bishop, I876; Albert MV. Davies, 1 877; Andrew J. Provin, 1 878; WNilliam C Young, i879-81; \William S. John son, i882-86; Oscar House, 1887; William S. Johnson, i888; Frank Ladner, 1889. Cascade-Peter Teeple, 1848-49; Asa Denison, i85o; Frederick A. Marsh, i85r; Pete Teple,185-53; Asa Denison, 1854; Gideon H. Denison, i855-57;' Peter Teeple, 1858; Gideon H. Denison, 1859; Edgar R. Johnson, i86o-6i; Horace Henshaw, i862 -63; Edgar R. Johnson, 1864; Henry Holt, 1865; Henry C. IDenison, 1866.67; Alfred Stow, i868; Edgar R. Johnson, 1869-72; Horace Henshaw, 1873; Edgar R. Johnson, i874-77; Henry, C". Denison, 1878; Edgar R. Johnson. i879-8i; W~illiam C. Denison, 1882; George P. Stark, 1883-84; Edgar N. Johnson, 1885; George P. Stark, i886; E'dgar R. Johnson,, 1887; George IP. Stark, 1-888; John H. W~ithey, 1889. Courtland- Philo Beers, I1839; I saac lower, 1842; Philo JBeers. 1843-44; John Austin, i845-46;- Nelson Miles, 1847; Philo0 Beers. 1848-49; Fred. NV. Worden, I 85o; H —oratio N. Stinson, 181 Ilillo Bleers, 1852; Harryl IIKingin, 1853; Asa P). Ferry, 1854-55;1 Philo Beers, 1856; Isaac T. WNor(len, 1857; \\. H. Myers, 1858; Jacob I. Stoner, 1859;, \Vheaton L. Hewvitt, i86o; Calvin Thomipson, i86i; William H. Myers, 1862-66; Barton Johnson, 1867; \Vil1ia H-. Myers, i868-77; Isaac M. Hunting, 1878; Charles M. Mann, 1879; Elias C. Brooks, i88o: Charles MI. Mann, i88i; Fred. Stegmian, 1882-83; WV. H. Myers, 1884; Simeon P. Peterson, i885-86; Williami F. W~oodworth, 1887-88; Charles H. Carlyle, 1 889. Gaines — Peter \v anLew%, 1848-53; Alexander Clark, 1854-55; Peter VanLewv, 1856; Aaron Brewer. 1857-6o; Charles Kelly, i86i 62; Aaron Brewer, 1863; Charles Kelly, i864-65; James M1. Pelton, i866; Charles KelIV. i867; Hlenry L. Wise, i868; James M. Pelton. 1869-701; Aaron Brewer, 1871; \Villiam" J. ary 1872; Aaron Brewer. 1873-76; Valentine Geib, 1877; Lewis A. Solomion, 1878-79; Nelson Kelly, i88o-85; Lew'is A. Solomion, i886; Nelson Kelly, 1 887; Lewis A. Solomon, i 888; Valentine Geib. 1889. Grand Rapids T'ownship ----Rix Robinson, 13-35 Ezekiel WN. Davis, 1836-3;Wl liam G. Henry, 1839; Francis J. Higginson, 1840; George Young, i841; John Almy 184-43; Josiah L. W~heeler,184 Truman H. Lyon, 185 Daniel Ball, 1846; 388 388 ~~~HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Harvey K. Rose, 18.47; J-amres M. Nelsoxi, 1i848; Aaron Dikeman), i849; Lewis Reed, i85o; Foster Tucker, 1851-.52; Abram 'Shear, i853; Foster Tucker, 1854; Lewis Reed, 1855; Foster Tucker. i856; George W. Dickinson, i857; Augustus Treat, 1858; Kendall Woodward, 1859; Obed 1-1. Foote, i86o; Foster Tucker, 1861-3 Henry' F. McCormick. 1874-82; Henry H. Havens, 1883 89. Grattan-Milton C. Watkins, i846; Joln John P. Weeks, i847-48; Milt on 'C. Watkins, i849-5o; Frederick C. Patterson, i851; Milton C. atkins, i852-3 Converse Close, 1854'; Luther K. Madison, i855; Converse Close, 1856; Milton C. Watkins, i857; Converse Close, Dudley Newton, 1858; George D. WVood, i859-6o; Theo. N. Chapin, i86i; B. W. B. Madison, 1862; Salisbury -Mason, 1863-64; George D. Wood, i865; Volney W'. Ca'ukin, i866; George D. Wood, 1867;, Oliver I. Watkins, i868-70; Jerome A. Duga, i87I; Oliver I. Watkins, 1872; John WV. Nicholson, i873-75; Oliver I. Watkins, 1876; Alvin C. Davis, 1877-78; Aaron Norton, 1879-84-; Oliver I. Watkins, i885-86; Johnson M.- Giffin, 1887-89. Lowell-Cyprian S. Hooker, 1848; HarrisonWickhamn,i849-51I; Cyptian S. Hooker, i852-53; John Brown, i854-56; Cyprian S. Hooker, i1857;' Jacob Chapman, 1 858; Arvine Peck, i859; Charles B. Carter, i86o-63;" Almon M. Elsworth, 1864-69; Robert Hunter, Jr., i870; Edmund Lee, 1871; S'imeon Hunt, 1872; Charles R. Hine, 1873; Robert Hunter, Jr., i874-77; Almon M. Elsworth, 1878; Leonard Hunt, i879-8o; Jarvis C. Train, i88i-82 -Milton C. Barber, 1883; Henry Mitchell, 1884; Leonard H. Hunt, 1885; Henry Mitchell, 1886-87; Augustus W. Weekes, 1888-89 Nelson -George Hoyle, i 855; Urias Stout, 1856; Adolphus L. Skinner, i856 -60; Benjamin F. DeCoul, i86i; Adolphus L. Skinner, 1862; Barton Eddy, 1863; Nicholas R. Hill, i864-67; David B. Stout, i868; Henry C. Russell, 1 869; Mindrus H. Whitney, i870,75; David B. Stout, 1876;. Henry C. Russell, 1 877; Albert D. Eldridge, 1878; John Berridge, 18.79-84; Edgar L. Phelps, i885-87; John BRerridge. 1888; Fred. Hubbard, 1889. Oakfield-Thonias Spencer, i849; Harry McArthur, i85o ~53.; ThomasSpencer, 1854; Harry McArthur, i855-57; Richard L. Wells, 1858-59; John Davis, i86o; William R. Davis, 1861-64; Rufin Caukin, i865; William R. Davis, 1866-74; Harry McArthur, 1i875-76; William Brown, 18'77; Willhan-i R. Davis, 1 878; William Brown, 1 879; Neil S-tewart, i880-8`2; H. E. Rowley, 1883; H.' A. 'Rowley, 1884; Nelson B. Rich, i885-86; Neil Stewart, 1887; Edward H. Jones, 1888-89. Paris-Joel Guild, 1839;' James A. Davis, 1840; Foster Kelly, 1841; Hiram H. Allen, 1842 'Stephen Hinsdill, 1843; JamsA Davis, 1844; 'Clinton Shoemaker, 1i845; James A. Davis, 1846; Benjamin F. Freeman, 1847; William S. Parsons, 1848-49; Sluman S. Bailey, i85o-5I; James A. Davis, 1852; Sluman S Bailey, 1853-54; Timothy 5. Smith, i855; Hiram H.Allen, i856; Timothy S. Smith, i857-58; Sluman S. Bailey, i859-6o; Timothy S. Smith, i86i-62; Samuel M. Garfield, 1863-65; Timothy S. Smith, i866; Isaac D. Davis, 1867; Horace Henshaw, i868; John P. Wykes, 1869; Samuel L. Garfield, i870-72; Wright C. Allen, 1873; Samu'el Langdon, i874-75; Christian P. Friend, i876-77; Samuel Langdon, 1878; Jerome E. Phillips, 1879; Christian P. Friend, i880-82; Jerome E. Phillips, 1883 -84; Hugo B. Rathbun, i885; Everett Hurd, 1886-87; Jerome E. Phillips, i888; Fremont E. Skeels, 1889. Plainfield —Zenas G. Winsor, 1838; Collins Leach, i839-40; Ezra Whitney, 1841;' Gideon H. Gordon,i1842-; A. Watson, 1843 -44; H. C. Smith, 1845-46; William Thornton, 1 847; Chester Wilson, Jr., 1 848; Henry C. Smith, i849-52; Peter B. Wilson, 1853;' John Hamilton, 1854 55 H. C. Smith, i856-58; James K. Morris, i859-60; H. C. Smith, i86i-66; Austin Richardson, 1867 -68; Horace Konkle, i869-75; H. D. Plumb, 1876; Horace Konkle, i877; Henry D. Plumb, 1878-79; Nathaniel Rice, i88o-88; Robert M. Hutchins, i889. Solon-Edward Jewell, i857-58; Nicholas R. Hill, 1859; Edward Jewell, i86o-6i;Y Nicholas R. Hill, 1862; Edward Jewell, 1 863;- Edward Pryce., 1864; Oliver P. Jewell, i865; John J. Dean, i866; Reuben W. Jewell, 1867;, Mindrus H. Whitney, i868; Asel B. Fairchild, 1869-70; Benjamin Fairchild,i1871; Edward Pryce, i872-77; Asel B. Fairchild, i1878-79; Oliver R. Lewis, i880-82; Albert G. Rose, 1883; 'Jeremiah Payne, i884-87; Edmund C. Woodworth, i888-89. -Sparta-Lewis W. Purdy, I846-47.; Jona RENT COUNTY GOVERNMENT.38 ISO than E. Nash, i848; Lewis W. Puirdv., i849; Horace MtcNitt, 1850; Jonathan E. Nash, i85I-52; Caleb Amidon, 1853; Jonathdri. E. Nash, i854-56; Sidney McNitt, i857; Jonathan E. Nash, i858; Ira Blanchard, i859-60; Jacob Spangenberg, i86i62; Ira Blanchard, 1863; Christopher C. Hinman, 1864; Rufus Payne, 1865; Sidney McNitt, i866-67;' Volney W. Caukin, i868 -7I Christopher C. Hinman i872-74; Jonathan E. Nash, i875-76Q John Manchester, i877; Jonathan E. Nash, 1878; Christopher C. Hinman, i879-80; Rezin A. Maynard, i88i-82; James B. Taylor, 1883;' Christopher- C. Hinman, 1 884; Avonley B. Roberts, i885-8 Lesie E. Paige, 1889. Spencer-Freeman Van Winkle, i86i; Thomas Spencer, 1862; Charles S. De Coti, i1863-64; Charles D. Spencer, 1865; Jacob Van Zandt, i866; Matthew B. Hatch, 1867 -73; Jacob Van Zandt, 1874; Scott Griswold, i875-78; John Moran, i879-8o; Michael Ward, i88i; John Moran, i882; Scott Griswold, 1883-84; Volney F. Cowles, 1885; Scott Griswol'd. i886-88; James W~ard, 1 889. Tyrone-Uriah Chubb, i 855-6o; Albert Clute, 1861; Milan L. Squires, 1862; Joseph Keyes, 1863-64; Uriah Chubb, i865-67; Charles T. Smith, i868; James M. Armstrong, i869-7I; Augustus C. Ayres, 1872; Henry C. Wylie, i873-74; Henry J. Barrett, i875-76; Henry H. Wylie, i877; George Hemnsley, i878-80; George Snyder, i88i-86; William W. Fenton, 1887-88; George Snyder, 1889 Vergennes -Rodney Robinson, 1838;John M. Fox, 1839; John J. Devendorf, 1840; Alanson K. Shaw, 1841; Thompson I. Daniels, 1842-44 Arba Richards, 1845; Henry M. Brown, 1846-47; John B. Shear, 1848; Thompson I. Daniels, 1849; Morgan Lyon, 1850; Lucas Robinson, i85I-52; Orlando J. O'Dell, i853-55; Philip W. Fox, i856; Thompson I. Daniels, i857-58; Silas A. Yerkes, i859-60; Alex. McLean, i86i1)2; Jacob W. Walker, 1863-89. Walker-Lovell Moore, 1838-39; Ebenezer Davis, 1840-4I; James Davis, i842-43; Isaac Turner, 1844; James Davis, 1845-46; John Potter, i847; Silas Hall, 1848; John Potter, i849-50; William A. Tryon, i85I52 Curtis Porter, i853; Milo White, 1854-58; William C. Davidson, 1859; Milo White, i86o; Charles H. Leonard, 186i-62; Jeffrey C. Champlin, 1863; Henry C. Hogadone, 1864-65; Horace McNitt, i866; Jeffrey Champlin, 1867; Ezra A. Hebard, 86-74; Abiel A. Wilson, i1875; Perley W. Johnson, 1 876; Abiel A. Wilson,, 1877; Ezra A. Hebard, i1878-79; Abiel A. Wilson, i 88o8i; Perley WV. Johnson, 1882; Abiel A. Wilson, 1883-86; John Kinney, 1887-89. Wyoming -William R. Godwin, 184+8 -51 Nicholas Shoemaker, 1852-54; Egbert Dewey,i855; -Ebenezer Davis, i856; Nicholas Shoemaker, 1857; Horatio N. Ball, i858-59; job Whitney, i86o; Ebenezer Davis, 1861-62; job Whitny 1863; or ace 0. XWebster, 1864; Dwight Rankin, 1865; Joseph Blake, i866; Ebenezer Davis, 1867; Augustine Godwin, i868; John T. Emmons, 1869-70; Augustine Godwin, 187I; Salisbury Mason, i872-75; Clinton D. Shoemaker, i876-77; ~William, K. Emmons, 1 878; William H. Nearpass, 1 879; Augustine Godwin, 1880.84; Clinton D. Shoemaker, 1885-86; Nichol D. Emmons, i887-89. City of Grand Rapids at Large-Henry R. Williams, i85o; Truman H. Lyon, Boardman Noble, i85I-52; David Caswell, Isaac Turner, 1853; Ralph XV. Cole, John WV. Peirce, 1854; Lewis P orter, Martin L. Sweet, Isaac Turner, i855; David S. Leavitt, David Caswell, Charles C. Comstock, i86 First Ward-Amos Rathhone, i857; John ClnyI858; John McConnell, 1859; William H.- Godfroy, i86o; John McConnell, i86i-68; Arthur Wood, i869-7I; Patrick J. Britton, i872-73; Arthur Wood, 1874; Patrick J. Britton, 1875-76; William Riordan, 1877; John Steketee, 1878-88; Hendrikus Leppink, 1 889. Second Ward- Harry H. Ives, i857; Robert Hilton, i858; John Almy, i859-6o; Henry Grinnell, 1861-63; Clark C. Sexton, 1864; Alonzo Seymour, i865-66; Henry.Grinnell, 1867; George M. Huntly, i868 -70; Ebenezer M. Ball, I871-73; William D. Talford, 1874; Jefferson Morrison, 1875 -76; Robert B. Loom-is, i877-89. Third Ward-\Varren P. Mills, i857; Ransom C. Luce, i858; Noyes L. Avery, 1859; Ezra T. Nelson, 1860-6i; George C. Nelson, 1862;William N. Cook, 186364 XWilliam D. Talford, i865-66; William I. Blakely, i867-68; Emory Wheelock, i869 -70; William I. Balakely, i87I; William-N. Co,87-74; George Cook, 1875-78; Sim HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. eon L. Baldwin, I879-83; John Benjamin, I884-89. Fourth Ward-Jonathan F. Chubb, 1857; Leonard Covell, i858; John W.Williamson, I859-60; Billius Stocking, I86i-65; John W. Williamson, I866; Billius Stocking, I867-68; David W. Northrup, 1869; Billius Stocking, i870; George M. Huntly, i871; John B. Colton, 1872; George A. Field, I873-74; George M. Huntly, I875; Harry H. Ives, I876-80; Myron E. Pierce, i88i; Harry H. Ives, i882-86; William D. Frost, I887-89. Fifth Ward-James N. Davis, I857; Philander H. Bowman, T858; James N. Davis, I859; William Hovey, I86o; Charles W. Warrell, i86i; George R. Pierce, 1862-63; Frederick W. Fitch, 1864; George W. Gay, I865-67; Bernard F. Shinkman, I868-69; James N. Davis, I870; Jared Wells, I87I72; George W. Betts, I873; Adolphus L. Skinner, I874-77; William A. Brown, I878 -8i; Adolphus L. Skinner, I882-85; Simon Sullivan, 1886-89. Sixth Ward-Erastus Clark, I871; Isaac Simmons, 1872; Peter C. Schickell, 1873 -74; Billius Stocking, I875; Isaac Simmons, 1876-84; Peter C. Schickell, i885 88; Jacob A. Smits, I889. Seventh Ward-Lewis Martin, 187I; John W. Williamson, i872-74; Lewis Martin, I875-77; Ira Currier, I878; Lewis Martin, 1879; Ira Currier, 188o-82; Henry 0. Schermerhorn, i883-89. Eighth Ward —James N. Davis, i871-77; Madison J. Ulrich, I878; James N. Davis, I879-85; Madison J. Ulrich, i886; Robert E. Courtney, i887-89. Since the establishment in 1877 of the Grand Rapids City Board of Review and Equalization the members of that Board (list given in another chapter) have been likewise members of the Kent County Board of Supervisors. BILLIUS STOCKING was born in Lisbon, St. Lawrence county, New York, June I2, i8o8. His parents were Billius and Patience (Grey) Stocking, natives of Massachusetts, the former born in I779, the latter in 1777. In the fall of I833, he, with his brother Daniel C., came to St. Joseph, Michigan, and in May, I834, came through on foot from that place to Grand Rapids, sleeping two nights in the woods, and one night at Gull Prairie, on the way hither. They staid here two weeks, meantime visiting Grand Haven; returned to St. Joseph on foot; thence went by schooner to Chicago, and from there went to Ottawa, Illinois, near which place Mr. Stocking purchased i6o acres of land. They then returned to the east, spending about four weeks in the journey. In the fall of I836 Mr. Stocking again started for Grand Rapids, coming by water to Fairport, Ohio, and the rest of the way on foot, reaching this city in November. During the next winter he chopped wood and split rails, and in the spring of I837 settled upon the place where he now lives, the northeast quarter of Section 23, Town 7 North, Range I2 West, for which he paid the State $3 per acre when it afterward came into market, and which he soon improved by clearing fifty acres. It is now a part of the city of Grand Rapids. From it, without compass, he and his brother ran a road southeast to Bridge street, which is now Stocking street —named for him. In the township organization, before the city days, Mr. Stocking was Treasurer of Walker, from 1843 to I846, inclusive, and also served two terms as Justice of the Peace. In the city he has served as Supervisor for his ward, in all, no less than seven terms. Until he recently retired from public responsibilities under the weight of advanced years, he was also usually filling some other position of official trust, especially those pertaining to schools, in which he has taken great interest. He has also been Under Sheriff of Kent county for one term. Since I853 he has given much time to land explorations and locations for purchase or settlement in the northern portion of this Peninsula of Michigan. Mr. Stocking married, December 5, I838, Mary Hunt, who was born June 20, i8i8, in Halifax, Vermont. They have resided for more than fifty years in the same location. Of five children born to them, two are now living. The elder daughter married John Widdicomb. Mr. Stocking is one of the very few surviving pioneers; and, at upward of four-score years, having seen and been a part of the growth and progress of Grand Rapids from its wildwood days, none have a surer place than he in the esteem and affections of its people. [See page 107]. <<^i! the south, and the streets known as '1:1 East and West Park Place on the,t/lt other two sides respectively. It conI''. tains a little more than three acres of ground. In the center is a pavilion in the shape of a Latin cross, capable of holding one or two hundred people, and free for the use of public gatherings, while thickly placed along the graveled walks are seats, upon which the summer stroller and the weary pilgrim alike may rest, and talk or read, with no fear of "move on, please," from the guardian of the city's peace. An object.: ann of interest, at least to the scientific man, and of curiosity to many, is a hexagonal box placed in the west portion of the park. Were the box removed we should see the astronomical stone placed there in 1874 by the officers of the United States Lake Survey, giving the latitude of Grand Rapids as 420 57' 49.02", and the longitude west from Greenwich as 85~ 40' 1.65". From Washington the longitude is 8~ 37' I3.65" west. This park is upon the site selected by Territorial Commissioners in i833 for the County Seat of Kent County. It came to the public use by dedication in the original platting, and some subsequent action and expense to quiet the title. MONUMENT PARK. A small, triangular space of green, bordered by shade trees, and having for its boundaries East Fulton, Monroe and North Division streets, although less than a fourth of an acre in size, possesses attractions that draw the stranger as well as the citizen to the scene. Many an old veteran has paused here and gazed on the fine monument in the center of the park, and from which it takes the name, "Monument Park," erected to commemorate the events of the war and CRESCENT 'ARK FOUNTAIN AND STEPS. hoped thereby to preserve in their original sightliness, on. the tops of uncomely and treacherous banks of sand. HIGHLAND PARK. A hilly grove between nine and ten acres in extent, lying north of the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad, between Union street and Grand avenue, constitutes Highland Park. Though not much improved, it is a pleasant resting place and resort for picnic parties. Through it Coldbrook winds its crooked way toward the City Water Works. The scheme for this plat was originated by Bissell and Harlan, who in platting gave to the city three and a half acres on condition that $500 be expended in improving it, and in the spring of 1873, deeded to the city five acres for the nominal sum of $1,200, that being considered the price of the acre and a PARKS AND CEMETERIES. the part taken therein by Kent county; and with broken voice and tear-dimmed eye has tried to describe the noble death of some friend and comrade wlho fell a sacrifice on the altar of Liberty in some one of the engagements the names of which are enduringly placed on this Soldiers' Monument. To the man of science, also, Monument Park has an object of interest, which would probably be overlooked by many. Seated on the bench near the east point of the triangle one might read from the notes of the late Captain Coffinberry: "At a meeting of the Common Council of the city of Grand Rapids, on the i7th of April, 1865, the City Surveyor made a report in pursuance of a previous order to erect a City Grade Bench. The report was accepted and adopted, and the Surveyor was ordered to put the same on record in the City Grade Book." As the record runs: A large granite boulder, with an iron bolt inserted in the top and leaded in securely, is planted at least three feet in the ground, with the top and iron bolt visible at the surface, in the southeast corner of the small triangular park bounded on the south by Fulton street, on the west by Division street, and on the northeast by Monroe street; said bench is to be recognized as the base for all the street grades in the city east of the river, and must be referred to in all the records for street grades from and after this date. Bearings-Iron post, south 72~ east 176 links and i inch. Iron post south 77Q 45' west 187 links and i inch. Recorded April I8, I865. W L. COFFINBERRY, City Surveyor. The bearings referred to are also mentioned in the Government survey of September, i874. Thus is established a starting point or base, from which surveys and levels are run or calculated in the city engineering. Here at the feet of the observer may be seen the insignificant looking affair on the exact location of which so much depends, and without which lawsuits innumerable might arise. Further inquiry brings the information that the top of the stone is 56. 57 feet above the estimated low water mark at Fulton street bridge, and that, while not officially recognized, for the convenience of civil engineers there is a grade bench in the corner-stone of the Eagle Hotel, 28.72 feet, and one on a level with the floor of Fulton street bridge, 24 feet above the same water level. OTHER GREEN SPOTS. Besides the parks already mentioned there are a few small "greeneries" in other parts of the city-"Ellsworth Park" at the intersection of Ellsworth avenue with Island and South Waterloo streets; "Bridge Street Park" on East Bridge street at its junction with Coit avenue and Barclay street; one at the end of Waverly place where State street runs into Washington, and one east of South Prospect street, between State and Cherry; neither of which exceeds half an acre; nor can they well be dignified by the name of parks. There are also several allotments, such as "Oakdale Park," "Grove Park," "Winsor Park," which as yet are outside of the city, and held as residence property, but which may in time be added to the city, and pleasant parks therein be dedicated to the public. SOLDIERS' MONUMENI'. Among the many monuments, that from time to time have been erected by citizens and comrades to carry the honor of soldiers down to future ages, and perpetuate the memory of services rendered and sacrifices made by those who served their country in the time of her need and danger, the comely and stately one here described is worthy of a prominent place. The Kent County Soldiers' Monument Association was organized February 13, i864, while our soldiery were in the very heat of the struggle for the preservation of the Union. The original incorporators were: Truman H. Lyon, Peter R. L. Pierce, Alfred X. Cary, George W. Allen, Eben Smith, Jr., Henry Grinnell, Thomas D. Gilbert, Henry Fralick, Wilder D. Foster. First officers: President, Thomas D. Gilbert; Treasurer, Ransom C. Luce; Secretary, Eben Smith, Jr. It was started upon the dollar membership plan, and local societies were organized in the townships of the county; the proposition being to raise a fund of $5,ooo for the purpose of erecting a monument to the memory of soldiers of Kent county who died while serving, the United States during the then pending war. Calls upon the purses as well as patriotism of the people were at that time so numerous and urgent that but slow progress was made. Six hundred members brought $600 to the fund, when interest in the project flagged and nearly died out, and further action was held in abeyance for about twenty years, except the careful investment by Mr. Gilbert and Mr. Fralick of the fund in hand. Finally plans were solicited and a contract 40()S HIISTORY OF TlEP CITY OF GRANi) RAPIDS. made with the Detroit Bronze Company, in 1885, for a monument to cost $3,500; to be in readiness for unveiling and dedication at the Annual Reunion of the Army of the Cumberland, held in Grand Rapids Sept. I6 and 17, i885; Mr. Gilbert becoming personally responsible for any balance that might be needed when the work should be done. Success crowned the effort, and a great concourse of people were present to rejoice at the consummation of the work. The cost of this monument and its surroundings was $4, I50. In connection with its payment is a striking illustration of the cumulative property of money judiciously invested. The original $600 with its increment of interest had grown to be $2,223. Then of the subscription raised to entertain the veterans of the Army of the Cumberland there was a surplus of $750, which was turned over to the monument fund. The balance needed —$I, I17 -was provided by private subscription. The Soldiers' Monument is so placed in the triangular park at the intersection of Fulton, Division and Monroe streets that the statue of the soldier at the summit of the shaft, faces northwest. T h e Li, G basin surrounding.'', and in the base of the monument is sixteen feet in diame Cot in form, built of native stone, suri -~~ i a X mounted by a coping of sand stone. 1The monument. proper rests upon a base of native stone cut in the form of a Greek cross. Fromi this ~P~~5~~I |rises the bro n z e _- _ Ibase of the strucSOLDIERS' MONUMENT. thre, ornamented in appropriate designs, with medallion portraits of Lincoln, Grant, Farragut and Garfield, and inscribed thereon are the names and dates of the following engagements, all of which were participated in by Kent County Soldiers: Fort Sumter, April 12, I86i; Fort Donaldsor. February i6, i862; Monitor and Merrimac, March 9, I862; New Orleans, April 24, I862; Atlanta, September 2, 1862; Yorktown, April 4, May 4, 1862; Fair Oaks, May 3I, June i, I862; Vicksburg, June 22, July 4, I863; Appommatox, April 8, 1865; Mobile, March 30, April I2, i865; Stone River, January 2, 1863; Port Royal, January i, i862. This section has a height of seven feet from the stone base. The next section is square in form, having on the front side in bas relief a scene representing a woman giving aid to a wounded soldier, and the inscription "Woman's Mission of Mercy" ---probably the first recognition in the history of soldiers' monuments of the work of women. The idea of doing so in this case was conceived by Mrs. Thomas D. Gilbert, and embodied in the plans by the committee. The other three sides of this section have these inscriptions: "A Government of the people, by the people and for the people." — Lincoln. "The Union must and shall be preserved. " -/ackson. "Let us have peace-This is a Nation." - Grant. "The war for the Union was right, eternally right." - Garfield. Upon the next section, on the front, is the inscription, "In honor of the soldiers from Kent county, i86i —i865. Erected I885." Above is a draped shaft upon which is the life-sized figure of a soldier in the uniform of a private, and standing at parade rest. Around the pedestal on which the statue stands are: "Petersburg," "Winchester," "Mission Ridge," "Antietam." The height of the monument from the ground to the top of the soldier's cap, is thirty-four feet. It is one of the most elaborate, up to that time, made of this material, "white bronze," which is believed to be indestructible, and is of a rich gray color. When the water is turned on jets play from cannon peeping out of miniature embrasures into the lower basin, while four draped cherubs spout water into the upper basin. The park was formally set apart for this monument and fountain November 25, I884, by action of the Common Council. THE INDIAN BIURIAL GROUNDS. When the white people came into this region there was an Indian burial ground on the West Side, nearly opposite the foot of the rapids. Its use as a cemetery was continued by the Catholic priest or missionary PARKS AND CEMETERIES. 409 who came there, and near it the little church of Father Baraga was situated. Thus it became the early Catholic cemetery, and was used as such until after the Indians removed and other grounds were procured by the Catholics on the east side of the river. Another Indian burial place on the West Side was further north, in some mounds nearly opposite the Pearl street bridge. Early settlers tell of burying large numbers of Indians in that southwest part of the city, at times of prevalence of contagious diseases among them. This whole ground of the mounds and burial places has since been very thoroughly dug up and leveled in making city improvements, and little remains but the dim remembrance of dead men's bones, and the ancient relics unearthed. FIRST VILLAGE CEMETERY. The first piece of ground set apart for cemetery uses in this town, as appears by the "Plat of the Village of Kent," made by John Almy in I835, was a parcel lying west of Livingston street, and between Walbridge and Coldbrook streets. It contained nearly eight acres, being 650 feet north and south by 510 feet east and west. A few graves were made there at an early day, and occasional burials down to as late as i855. It was never formally dedicated to the public other than by the platting, though the City Council recognized it in I853 by an order for fencing it. This, however, was not carried into effect, and a few years later the remains interred there were removed, chiefly to Fulton Street Cemetery. About i855 a pest-house was erected among the bushes on or near the south end of this ground, and two or three victims of smallpox were buried there. There were then no residences near it. Afterward the interest of the public in the ground was allowed to lapse and it reverted to its original owners. A TEMPORARY BURIAL PLACE. In the early village days a parcel of ground near where is now the corner of Madison avenue and Cherry street was used occasionally for burial purposes. Subsequently the remains which had been placed there were removed to the Fulton Street Cemetery. There was a story to the effect that a man named Baker, familiarly known as "Big Baker," on account of his large frame (he was very tall and weighed 260 pounds), 38 was buried there and that at the removal his coffin was found empty. The daughter of Samuel Baker afterward discredited this, so far as related to the place of burial. She thought he was buried in Fulton Street Cemetery, but the family were unable thereafter to find his remains or even any appearance of a grave at the spot where they saw him buried. FULTON STREET CEMETERY. July 9, i838, the Trustees of the Village purchased of James Ballard six acres of ground comprising what is now a part of the Fulton Street Cemetery. The purchase price was $300. It was to be reserved and used expressly as a cemetery for the Village of Grand Rapids, one-third of it for the Roman Catholics, and was to be kept in order and repair at the expense of the Village. Twenty years later this ground was found too small for the needs of the then rapidly growing city, and additions were made to it of parcels adjoining, by deeds of Thomas D. Gilbert and others, in I862, i863 and I864. In the early part of i868 the "Fulton Street Cemetery Association of the City of Grand Rapids" was incorporated, under the law of the State relating to such associations, by the owners of lots in that cemetery, and the following officers were elected: President, Thomas D. Gilbert; Clerk, James B. Willson; Treasurer, J. Frederic Baars; Sexton, John Suttle; Directors, L. R. Atwater, A. Lamont Chubb, Alonzo Platt. At the same meeting by-laws were adopted and an assessment of $600 was levied on the members for improvement of the grounds. Since that time they have been well cared for by this association. The present officers are: President, George W. Sones; Secretary and Treasurer, J. F. Baars; Sexton, John Ringold. The grounds with their alleys and carriage ways are well laid out and carefully and neatly kept, and in them are a considerable number of handsome and costly monuments. The trees and shrubbery, judiciously and tastefully trimmed, give the place much the appearance of an attractive park. The area of this cemetery is nearly twelve acres. MOUNT CALVARY CEMETERY. The Catholic cemetery on the west side of the river is known as Mount Calvary-a plat of about seventeen acres just west of 410 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. the city at the junction of Walker avenue and West Leonard street. It was purchased by the Rev. I. G. Ehrenstrasser, the pastor of St. Mary's church, April io, I882, and soon after was formally consecrated according to the Roman Catholic ritual. The land was purchased by the pastor with his own money, and during his life he gave four acres to the church, and on his death December 6, i886, he left the remainder of the plat to the congregation of St. Mary's church, his intention, as expressed, having been to reside on the portion withheld, should he become superannuated before his death. In connection with the Parish of St. Mary's, the cemetery is used by the Parish of St. Adelbert, the Polish Catholic church. The first member of the parish buried in this "city of the dead," was Frank Berles, August 5, I884; although prior to this several children of Polish families had been interred there. Among the monuments in the course of construction, is a very elegant mausoleum to the memory of Father Ehrenstrasser, costing about five thousand dollars. There are many small but tasty monuments, among which are noticed those of Frank Berles,, Peter Kreider, Frank Roetz, Charles Greulich, John Goebel and Peter Beierly, mainly the work of Charles Schmidt, a member of the congregation. ST. ANDREW'S CEMETERY. The St. Andrew's (Catholic) Cemetery, situated on the east side of Madison avenue between Prince and Jones streets, and comprising about ten acres of ground, was deeded to Bishop Peter Paul LeFevre in December, I852. Previous to that time the Catholic burial ground on the east side of the river was in the gore between Cherry street and Lake avenue, and east of the city line. The grounds are well platted, and contain several fine monuments. That of the Reverend Father Andrew Viszoczky bears Latin, French, German and English inscriptions. The John Clancy vault is an object of much interest to visitors. VALLEY CITY CEMETERY. Situated about a quarter of a mile east of the fair grounds, in the town of Paris, is the Valley City Cemetery, being the east part of the north half of the northeast quarter of Section 6 in that township, about forty' acres of ground. This was purchased by direction of the Common Council in February, i859, and was dedicated by the city authorities to cemetery purposes December I7, i86o. The grounds are handsomely laid out in a grove of natural oaks, with convenient walks and drives, and are well kept. It has a number of fine monuments, and a city vault of capacity to receive twenty-four caskets, the latter built by a California gentleman. THE HEBREW BURIAL PLACE. The first meeting of Hebrews in this city was held September 20, i857, to take action in regard to the death of one Jacob Levy. Joseph Houseman was Chairman, and David L. Newborg, Secretary. Those present resolved themselves into a Benevolent and Burial Society, and authorized the Chairman to procure suitable grounds for a cemetery. These he secured, by deed from Joseph J. Baxter and Julia A. Baxter his wife, dated September 20, I857, conveying that parcel of land which is the southwest quarter of Oak Hill Cemetery. This was the first ground dedicated to such use in that neighborhood; Oak Hill and Valley City Cemeteries being established later. It is owned and used by the Congregation Emanuel as the Hebrew Burial Ground, and is neatly, sweetly and carefully cared for. OAK HILL CEMETERY. In the southeast corner of the city is Oak Hill Cemetery, comprising about forty acres, in square form. The original plat, made by W. L. Coffinberry, shows 1,350 lots, averaging I6 by 30 feet in size. Its central avenue is 40 feet wide, the circular drive ways are 24 feet wide, and that around the outside is 20 feet wide. It has an estimated capacity for 21,600 graves. This cemetery was dedicated October 25, i859. The southwest quarter of this ground constitutes the burial place of the Hebrews. GREENWOOD CEMETERY. A little northwest of the city, in the township of Walker, is a cemetery tract of twenty acres called Greenwood. It was purchased by the city in February, i859, and was dedicated as a city cemetery December I 7, i86o. It is tastefully laid out and nicely cared for. Near the center is a neat family vault of moderate dimensions. The ground has sev PARKS AND CEMETERIES-UNDERTAKERS. 411 eral miles of walks and driveways, the latter bordered by strips of lawn; and many of the lots are marked with monuments of granite and marble. CARE OF THE CEMETERIES. Of the cemeteries in the city of Grand Rapids, generally speaking, it may be said that they contain many illustrations of the growth by culture of the taste of the people, in the matter of their improvement and adornment. Therein are a great many samples of artistic conception and skill shown in the chiseled marble, and of the manifestations of affection in family circles exhibited in the shrubbery and floral decorations about the resting places of their loved ones departed. Under the charter the city is empowered to purchase and hold grounds for cemeteries within or without the limits of the corporation, to ordain appropriate names for them, and cause record to be made of their metes and bounds. It is provided also that such lands shall be "forever dedicated to cemetery purposes." Prior to I883 the Common Council appointed one Commissioner of the city cemeteries. The term of the office was two years. In May, I883, by act of the Legislature a Board to be known as the Cemetery Commissioners of the City of Grand Rapids was constituted, to be composed of three members. These are appointed by the Mayor, by and with the consent of the Council. The term is three years, and one is appointed on the first Monday in May of each year. The act requires that this Board shall have exclusive control of all lands owned by the city and dedicated to cemetery uses, and also of all properties, buildings and improvements connected therewith; shall have exclusive care, custody and management of the same, and shall employ Superintendents and such Sextons and laborers as they may deem proper. They also have power to regulate sales of lots, and interments, and make such regulations and improvements as they may see fit; in no case, however, must a fee be charged to visitors. Suitable lots are required to be set apart for the burial of the poor and cared for at the public expense. All cemetery property belonging to the city and all places of burial are exempt from assessment and taxation, and from liability for the payment of debts. The city has police jurisdiction in all the cemetery grounds. The Commis sioners are entitled to a salary for their services in the discretion of the Council, not to exceed $oo00 per annum. Of the annual receipts of the cemeteries for the sale of lots and otherwise an amount not less than ten per cent. constitutes a repair fund, not to exceed, however, $50,000, the interest of which must be applied solely to the repairing of cemetery property. The Commissioners are required to make quarterly reports of their receipts and expenditures. The members of the Board in i888 were Smith W. Osterhout, Isaac Sigler and Ransom C. Luce. In I889, Isaac Sigler, R. C. Luce and W. F. Raiguel. Among earlier Cemetery Commissioners have been: Warren P. Mills, Charles P. Babcock, i859; T. D. Gilbert, Ebenezer Anderson, i867; R. C. Luce, Robert Swain, I878. Mr. Luce has served in that capacity most of the time for thirty years. UNDERTAKERS. In the early days coffin making was part of the trade of every cabinet maker. Joiners and wagon makers also sometimes made to order plain coffins. These were usually of simple construction, of cherry or black walnut, or of some softer wood and stained, with rarely any trimmings except sometimes cheap handles upon the sides, for convenience in carrying. And at funerals the common custom was for four or six of the friends or neighbors of the deceased to carry the body, inclosed in such a coffin, from the house to the church or the grave in a procession, upon the bier, which was a simply constructed, unpainted, frame of wood with side-rails, cross-slats and four posts; or, if the route was of much length, a plain wagon with a square box was used for part of the service. There were very few ostentatious funerals in Grand Rapids previous to i850, and the cost of burials was very light compared with even the most humble of the present day. Nor was it often that other special services than those of the maker of the coffin, the 'grave digger and the priest were required, sympathetic hands supplying the rest, and frequently all, of the needed assistance. Not until about 1846 came the time when "the doctor told the sexton and the sexton tolled the bell.' Robert I. Shoemaker and Harry Dean were for some time tollers of the bell on the Congregational church, and the former by appointment of 412 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. the Village Trustees in I847 became the Village Sexton. A few years after the incorporation of the city one or two furniture makers began to make of coffins ready-made a part of their stock in trade. Albert B. Judd, starting about i858, was the first to make of undertaking and supplying of all materials for funerals a distinct and exclusive business or trade. This he followed for about twenty years at 30 Canal street. Prominent among the local undertakers, or, as they are now called, funeral directors, is Allen Durfee, who began on the corner of Pearl and Campau streets in 1871. He remained there four years, when he moved to his present location on Ottawa street. In i879 he conceived the idea of organizing a State association of undertakers, and a convention was called, meeting at Jackson January I4, i88o, when the organization was perfected and Mr. Durfee chosen President, which office he held for two terms. This was the first attempt of the kind in the United States, the object being to discuss all matters pertaining to the business, and the outcome of it has been a National Association of which also Mr. Durfee has been a prominent member ever since its organization. His business has increased so that in his rooms he now carries a full and complete stock of funeral furnishings; having also three hearses, five horses and three assistants. September 6, i888, he admitted A. D. Leavenworth to partnership, with onethird interest in the business which inventoried $7,000, and the style of the firm was changed to Allen Durfee & Co. He has for years dispensed with ice, and embalmed instead, using a solution which preserves the body for a long time with little change. ALLEN DURFEE was born at Palmyra, Wayne county, New York, January 15, i829, and lived there until the fall of I853, with his father's people, on the farm where he was born. October 5, I853, he married Phebe B. Thayer, a native of that county, and on the i8th of the same month they came to Grand Rapids, he having purchased a part of the Bemis farm, near the river, four miles below this city. There he lived until September, i868. In I856 he was elected Justice of the Peace; in I862-63 held the office of Treasurer of Walker township; in i866 was again chosen Justice of the Peace, and in i868 was nominated for Supervisor, but failed of an election. In September, i868, he sold his farm and purchased a home in this city, where he has since resided. In June, i869, he engaged for J. H. Farwell, in the manufacture of funeral goods, and remained with that gentleman a little more than two years. October I5, I87I, he established his present business —that of undertaker, or as it is now called, funeral director —in which since that date he has continued uninterruptedly. He took a leading part in forming a State Association of Funeral Directors, which was done in the early part of I88o, was chosen its President, and has been active in discussions and measures for improvement in all that pertains to their profession and business. Mr. Durfee is a member of the Knights of Honor, of the A. 0. U. W\., of the Covenant Mutual Association of Galesburg, and of the Old Residents' Association of the Grand River Valley. In person he is gentlemanly, is temperate in habits, genial, sociable, kind and affectionate in the domestic circle, and has a warm and generous hand for the needy and unfortunate. Mr. Durfee and his wife are members and earnest supporters of the Park Congregational Church. In politics he is a Republican. As a man and citizen he has the good will and esteem of the community. The Powers & Walker Casket Company had its origin in i873 as Powers & Walker, with a capital of about $I8,ooo, and in I884 was incorporated under the present name with an authorized capital stock of $Ioo,ooo, of which $70,000 was paid in. The official board stands: President, William H. Powers; Vice President, J. H. Walker; Secretary and Treasurer, William E. Cox. They have large and convenient buildings at 77 to 88 South Front street. The factory on the east side of the street is four stories and basement, fitted with the most approved machinery and connected by an elevated tramway with the finishing, store and show rooms, on the west side of the street, where is kept for the trade nearly everything needed in undertakers' supplies. In their manufacture they make a specialty of fine cloth caskets, and also of burial cases. Their shipments go to all parts of the country, as far west even as California, and average annually $I50,000; the manu 661 UNDERTAKERS. 41.3 facture of which distributes monthly about $2,000 among fifty to seventy-five workmen. They are the patentees of a sliding-face-lid casket, in which the removal of the lid is rendered unnecessary by a simple device. James Dolbee started in the undertaking business in I876 in partnership with James M. Kennedy and John W. Drew, under the firm name of Dolbee, Kennedy & Co., at 114 Monroe street. Later, Kennedy and Drew retired from the firm and were succeeded by Peter McCallum, and the firm name was changed to James Dolbee & Co. In i88i the Grand Rapids Cloth Casket Company was organized with a capital stock of $2, 500, making a specialty of cloth covered caskets and general undertakers' supplies. Their trade is mostly local, giving employment to four men and amounting to about $12,ooo yearly. Their present place of business is at the corner south of Fountain and west of Ionia street. On Crescent avenue, near Canal street, is a well preserved building erected in I838 (the first stone dwelling in the village), part of which is now occupied by P. H. OBrien for undertaking purposes, succeeding O'Brien & Powers, with a capital of $2,000 and one hearse. He has three assistants. William Koch has been in the undertaking business some twenty years, his rooms being on West Bridge street. Among funeral directors of late, also, are Jacob Raushenberger and August C. Posner, on North Front street; Jacob Keukelaar at 303 Ottawa; Peter Kornoelje, North College avenue, and G. G. Van Houtum, 33 Ottawa and 274 College avenue. CHAPTER XXXVII. SALT WELLS AND WORKS. BY THE act of Congress proposing terms to the Legislature of Michigan for the admission of the Territory into the Union as a State, June 23, i836, it was provided that salt springs within the State, not exceeding twelve in number, with six sections of land adjoining, should be granted to the State for its use. The selections were to be made by the Legislature, and this was done solely from surface indications. March 4, 1838, the Legislature passed an act directing the State Geologist to commence boring for salt as soon as practicable at one or more of the State salt springs, and appropriated $3,000 to defray the expenses. Two points were selected, one about three miles below the village of Grand Rapids, the' other at the mouth of Salt River on the Tittabawassee. In his report to the Legislature, January I, i839, the Geologist stated that there had been expended on Grand River works $1,766.52, and at Salt River $2,118.67 -which was $886. 19 in excess of the appropriation. In I840 a further appropriation of $5,000 was made for the Grand River test. The State Geologist, Dr. Douglass Houghton, made a contract with Lucius Lyon to sink a well where the previous preparations had been made, at the river bank, on Section 3,Town 6 North, Range 12 West. It was near where is now the southern landing of the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad bridge below this city. Lyon went down 300 feet-as far as his contract required. It cost the State $5,ooo. In a published letter, he subsequently stated that at the bottom he found the salt water much stronger than that found in his own well here at the same depth. At a later date the State well was sunk to a depth of 473 feet, after which the work was placed in charge of John Ball, and the boring continued to the depth of 700 feet or more, when the well became clogged by the losing of the drill therein, and that enterprise was ended, the State making no further effort for its continuance. There was an impression current at the time, undoubtedly without good foundation, that the stopping of the well was intentional, and by the procurement or incitement of parties interested in the boring at the rapids, where Lyon's salt works were already under process of construction. Lucius Lyon had such faith that he was willing to risk some capital in salt. In the fall of I839 he engaged Ansel Hulbert, an experienced Pennsylvania well borer, and his two sons, to sink a deep well here. Their confidence was strengthened by the opinion of the State Geologist, Dr. Houghton, and they went to work with strong hope of success. In August, i84I, the well, averaging about three inches and a half in diameter, had been sunk to the depth of 66i feet. On putting down a copper tube 360 feet, water flowed from it more than onethird saturated with salt, rising to a height of twenty feet above the surface of the ground, at the rate of about o,0ooo gallons daily. This was about two-thirds the strength of the brine then produced at Salina, New York. The well was at the river bank, east side, about seventy-five feet above Bridge street. This outcome was not only gratifying to Mr. Lyon but to the men who drilled the well, as they had taken a portion of the risk of its cost, to the extent of asking nothing for their labor if unsuccessful. Evaporating and boiling works for the reduction of the brine were immediately constructed, and began turning out salt in the middle of March, 1842, this advertisement having appeared in the meantime: Salt Exchanged for Wood! THE undersigned having rented the Grand Rapids Salt Works, now erecting, will give for good hard WOOD, well corded up at said works in quantities of not less than five cords, one hundred and thirty pounds of salt per cord, to be paid at any time SALT WELLS AND WORKS. 415 when called for after the expiration of three months from the date of the delivery of the wood. The wood must be four feet long, and well split into suitable size for salt boiling, and delivered before the first day of June next. Farmers will do well to embrace this offer, as they cannot now get more than ninety pounds of salt for a cord of wood. T. H. LYON. Grand Rapids, Jan. io, 1842. Truman H. Lyon carried on the manufacture for a short time, and in the following November was making salt at the rate of about fifty bushels per day, using all the water that came from the well. About I846, Lyon well (about I844), the Hulberts went to White River and began sinking another near a large salt spring some ten or twelve miles up that stream. It was a failure. They bored to the depth of about eighty feet, when the drill stuck fast and they abandoned the work. In i859, the Legislature passed an act to exempt property used for sinking wells for salt making from taxation, and bestowing a bounty of ten cents a bushel for the manufacture; providing, however, that any company or individual should produce at least 5,000 bushels before the bounty should be paid. This infused new life into the efforts for the manufacture. In September, I859, the Grand Rapids Salt Manufacturing Company, of which James Scribner was the moving spirit, had sunk a well to the depth of 130 feet near Coldbrook, and found brine of considerable strength. Boring at this well was continued to a depth of 260 feet, striking granite rock. The State Geologist expressed the opinion that it would be of little or no use to go deeper, also that there was reason to hope that the enterprise would prove pecuniarily successful. But in the following spring it was put down to a depth of 398.2 feet. June I3, i86o, the works were running, and soon producing salt at the rate of thirty or forty barrels per day. They began shipment over the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad July 28, i86o. The works at this well were built much like those which had been used at the Lyon well. Brush houses were constructed, consisting of timber frame work some forty feet high, in which were placed layers of brush, with a slight inclination first toward one side and then the other. To the top of this pile the salt water was pumped, and ran down slowly through six tiers of brush, and thence to the kettles or pans where the evaporation was completed by boiling. Several hundred barrels were manufactured here, but the work proved unprofitable, and was abandoned during the war. The Grand River Salt Company was organized in I859, by William T. Powers, Henry Martin and F. P. Leonard, and sank a well near the west bank of the river, north of Leonard street, stopping at a depth of 156 feet, having obtained brine of very near full saturation. It was reported that a bushel of salt was made from thirty-two gallons, and that it was the strongest brine TRUMAN H. LYON-(SEE PAGE Ix6). James Allen and Carlton Neal were running the works, then for a year or two, Joseph Cordes and Michael Thome, and after them Lucius A. Thayer. About I849 or i85o, an effort to remove the piping for repairs was made, the well caved in and the works were stopped. A stream of water is still running from that hole-in-the-ground into the river, carrying considerable salt, but not so strong as the original flow. Salt making in Grand Rapids was at an end for the time being, and there was a feeling of disappointment. While the works were in operation, salt had been sold for $I.50 per barrel, and sometimes as low as twenty-five cents per bushel, which was a reduction of about fifty per cent. from prices that had prevailed for imported salt. The brush pile at the boiling works, some distance up stream, stood for a number of years and went to decay. A short time after their completion of the 416 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS found by boring in any part of the United States. It did not rise to the surface, and the supply was limited. The curious phenomenon of the well-irregularity and small quantity of the flow —was probably owing to the smallness or thinness of the stratum of salt-bearing rock from which it came. Considerable salt was manufactured there, but the supply was insufficient for profit, and the works were operated but a short time. About the same time two other salt wells were made: one by the Indian Mill Creek Salt Company, some thirty rods north of the Powers well, the other by Jacob W. Winsor, still further north beyond the city line, and between the river and where now run the railroad tracks. At all these west side wells the-evaporation was mostly done by boiling. The Indian Mill Creek well was sunk 434 feet, first striking salt water at I28 feet. Winsor's well reached brine at I64 feet, and was carried to a depth of 466 feet. The latter was bored in the summer of I86o. Richard E. Butterworth began a well in December, i859, under the building in which the Butterworth & Lowe Shops are situated at the foot of the canal, which he sunk to a depth of 490 feet, striking brine of 22~ saturation at 325 feet. The first brine was struck at 57 feet, and at I29 feet it was of sufficient strength to produce a bushel of salt to 95 gallons. At 261 feet, the flow of water was at the rate of 350 gallons a minute. Mr. Butterworth soon abandoned the idea of making salt at his well, and erected mineral bath houses on the opposite side of Huron street, which were in operation for a few years, supplying them from a current of strongly impregnated mineral water which came from his well with sufficient pressure to carry it into the top of the building. In i86o the Kent Salt Manufacturing Company, with a capital stock of $i5,ooo, was organized by Daniel Ball, Sarell Wood, William A. Richmond, Richard E. Butterworth, George K. Johnson, Robert P. Sinclair, Andrew T. McReynolds, Charles H. Stewart and John Bowne -President, W. A. Richmond; Vice President, Sarell Wood; Secretary and Treasurer, R. P. Sinclair. These gentlemen had the project in view of going deeper than had yet been done in search of salt, and for that purpose to sink a well somewhere north of Bridge street. The coming on of the war impeded operations and not much was done by this company. But about this time Charles W. Taylor bored to a depth of near 700 feet, just below the dam on Coldbrook, and stopped for want of funds. In I864 William T. Powers and others interested themselves to obtain subscriptions for the purpose of sinking a test well, 1,500 feet if necessary, to procure water of the requisite strength for profitable manufacture. Twenty-three prominent business men subscribed $I,5oo, and William' B. Ledyard was made treasurer of the fund. This boring was started a few feet from the Taylor well, and, after going down nearly, 200 feet, the caving in of the latter stopped further work. First and last, and with much courage, a large amount of money was spent in these enterprises, but the conclusion was finally reached that, against the resources and better facilities of other parts of the State, further struggle for successful salt manufacture here would be useless. Condensed from the records of borings at these wells, a summary shows: At the State well, brackish water was found at a depth of 68 feet; brine of pretty good strength at 265 feet, and again at 445 feet; total depth, according to John Ball's recollection, about 723 feet. The Lyon well was 66i feet deep, about 40 feet below the sea level; at 76 feet was a flow of fresh water; at 99 feet indications of salt, and a large flow at 264; at 445 strong salt water. At the Scribner well, salt water at 207 feet; total depth, 398y feet Powers well, stopped in strong salt water at i56 feet. Butterworth well, salt at 129 feet; boring continued to the depth of 490 feet. Indian Mill Creek Company's well, brine at I28 feet; full depth, 434 feet. Winsor well, depth 436 feet; brine at I64 feet. Salt making at this point may be set down among the extinct industries. But those who tried it had the satisfaction of much experiment and "great expectations." CHAPTER XXXVIII. GYPSUM AND PLASTER OF PARIS. NEAR the southern line of this city, on the west bank of Grand River, and below the town, on both sides, is the outcrop of gypsum strata which undoubtedly underlie nearly the whole of the very large region extending several miles from this point on the west, to the Muskegon River on the north, and to Tawas Bay on the east. The discovery of gypsum in this State dates as far back as the time when General Cass was Governor of the Territory; but the question whether or not it could be profitably worked, was not practically tested till I841. It was known by the fur traders and missionaries here, as early as I827, that gypsum existed near the surface in the neighborhood of the mouth of Plaster Creek, where an Indian showed the rock to one of the people attached to the Slater Mission; but at that time its great extent and value were little known. Dr. Douglass Houghton, State Geologist, here in i838 to select a point for the sinking of a salt well below the rapids, made a report which led to the development of the Grand Rapids plaster beds. On the left bank of the river the gypsum appears as surface rock, covered only by the drift soil, extending as far as Grandville. On the other side, a short distance from the river, it lies under the drift and some thirty feet of rock composed of alternating layers of water lime, clay, slate and gypsum; a sectional cut from the surface downward showing: First, loam and yellow clay; second, blue clay, 4 feet; third, water lime and clay slate, 4 feet; fourth, clay slate, 4 feet; fifth, gypsum, 8 inches; sixth, clay slate, 2 feet; seventh, gypsum, thin stratum; eighth, clay slate, 3 feet; ninth, water lime, i foot; tenth, clay slate, 4 feet; eleventh, gypsum, 7 feet; twelfth, clay slate, i foot; thirteenth, gypsum, 13 feet. The strata have a dip at this point apparently to the northeast, wellboring near the head of the rapids showing the 7 foot layer at a depth of 63 feet, and 39 the 13 foot bed at 74 feet. Several strata of gypsum below these beds have been penetrated by the sinking of wells-the aggregate of all the strata being about fifty feet. An analysis of the Kent county gypsum made in i86o by Dr. S. P. Duffield, of Detroit, showed the following constituents: Water, 19 parts in Ioo; lime, 32.67; sulphuric acid, 44.44; organic matter, 3.89; with only slight traces of sodium and potash. These gypsum quarries are a mine of apparently inexhaustible wealth to our city. The development and manufacture were begun in I841, by Warren Granger and Daniel Ball, who advertised: PLASTER! PLASTER! THE subscribers have now completed their Plaster Mill on Plaster Creek, two miles south of this place, which is now in operation. -They respectfully inform the public that they have on hand at the mill, or at either of their stores at Ionia or this place, a constant supply. As the quality of the Grand River Plaster is not equaled by any in the United States, they hope to receive a share of patronage, as the price is less than it can be obtained for at any place in Michigan. Wheat, Pork, and most kinds of produce received in payment. GRANGER & BALL. Grand Rapids, Dec. 2i, I841. In that week the mill turned out forty tons. The price at the mill was $4 per ton. Ball afterward sold his interest to Henry R. Williams, who did much to create a market for the article by his enthusiasm in making its merits known. He conducted the mill for some years, and in 1852 it passed into the hands of E. B. Morgan & Company (N. L. Avery). That first mill was the one at the crossing of Plaster Creek by the Grandville Road, and for several years was the only one here. It was a small establishment, but its success, and the demand for its product showed the value of the gypsum deposit, and led to the starting of other similar enterprises. James A. Rumsey, from 418 HISTORY OF THtE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. I842, for near thirty years was most of the time connected with the work, as manager or otherwise. In the winter of I848-49, the demand for plaster was beyond the capacity of that mill to supply, though it ran day and night. Large numbers of teams came from the south, some as far as ioo miles, and were obliged to return empty. In January, I852, shipments by teams southward were sixty tons or more daily. After Morgan & Co., N. L. Avery & Co. purchased the Plaster Creek works, the members of the firm being Noyes L. Avery, Sarell Wood and Benjamin B. Church. In December, i857, this firm dissolved, and was succeeded by Sarell Wood & Co. (Sarell Wood and Barney Burton). A short time afterward Mr. Burton withdrew, Charles A. Todd and Abel Thompson succeeding him in the firm. About I86o Freeman and Silas F. Godfrey began operating in gypsum, and in I864 they, with Amos Rathbone and George H. White (G. H. White & Co.), purchased the old plaster mill property and a large tract of land extending down Plaster Creek to Grand River. The Godfreys built a mill near the mouth of the creek, and also made extensive additions and betterments to the original mill. In this venture the estate of Alfred D. Rathbone also had an interest. The firm name in the plaster business, operating the Florence Mills, as the new ones were called, was F. Godfrey & Brother. This quickly grew to be among the foremost of manfacturing enterprises. Later, the first mill and some I20 acres of land connected, have passed to the possession of the Alabastine Company, working in calcined gypsum, while that has also become the leading product of the Godfrey mills. The old mill as a manufacturing establishment has gone out of use. FREEMAN GODFREY was born at Vershire, Orange county, Vermont, September 5, i825. His grandfather was a native of Northwood, N. H., and settled in Vermont in 1789, being among the pioneer settlers of the Green Mountain State. His father and grandfather were farmers. The family name is old, and can be traced through eight hundred years back to its French-Alsatian origin in the German province of Lorraine. Early in its history is found mention of Godfrey of Bouillon, Grand Master of the Knights Templar, in the days of Philip the Fair. Freeman Godfrey, the subject of this sketch, was taught the rudimentary branches of an English education in the district schools of his native town. A healthy, active, ingenious lad, with an inquiring turn of mind, he soon developed mechanical skill and turned his attention to the making by hand of various farm implements, and exchanged his products for the farm labor of his neighbors. Between this occupation and working in a saw mill, work on his father's farm, running a threshing machine, and making charcoal, each a portion of the year, he passed the time until I845, when he went to Lowell, Massachusetts, and worked nearly a year in a cotton mill. Going afterward to Pittsburg, Pa., he entered into an engagement to peddle brass clocks in Ohio and Indiana. In I851 he was working as a contractor on the Terre Haute and Alton Railroad, and in the following year he took a contract on the line of the Illinois Central Railroad, which he finished in the fall of I856. In December of the latter year he came to Grand Rapids to engage in constructing the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad, which work was completed in I858. He then took an interest in the construction of the Transit Railroad fromn Winona to Rochester, Minnesota; but the financial panic and revulsion of those days cut short the enterprise. In the winter of I859-60 Mr. Godfrey took a contract on the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, and graded a portion of the line, but the work soon stopped for lack of available funds on the part of the company. But later, while that road was temporarily in the hands of a receiver, Mr. Godfrey took for construction the northern ten miles of the second twentymile section north of this city, and put it through a previously unbroken wilderness of timber lands in five weeks and two days -in time to save to that company its land grant, of which the forfeiture had been threatened, as is stated in the chapter on railroads. He was actively interested in behalf of the Grand River Valley Railroad, aiding in the location of its line, soliciting stock subscriptions, urging city aid, and assisting in the purchase of its station grounds in this city. He was also prominent in the organization of the Grand Rapids and Holland Railroad Company, of which he was elected President. He located its line, arranged to obtain funds, and con 1(7 ~o ' L4'i-L FREEMAN GODFREY —(GEORGE H WHITE. 419 tracted to construct the road in four months, furnishing all but the iron, also to do the fencing, and engineering and secure the right of way, for $7,500 per mile; all of which, with the assistance of three friends, he completed within the stipulated time. Aside from the above has been his extensive private business, chiefly that of plaster and stucco manufacture and trade. In i86o he purchased some land within the city limits, and soon thereon opened a gypsum quarry; built a water and a steam mill, each with two run of stones; also calcining works with two kettles having a capacity of forty barrels each; designing the plans for buildings and machinery and superintending their construction. The firm of F. Godfrey & Brother was soon thereafter formed, about I865, the brother being Silas F. Godfrey, and their land and calcined plaster business has been from the very start successful; their products finding ready market throughout the West, from Ohio to California. In 1865 they purchased one-third of the old plaster quarry and mills, of which George H. White & Company had the other two-thirds; and on this ground Mr. Godfrey designed and superintended the construction of a new water and steam mill, with three run of stones; also calcining works with forty-barrel kettle; opened a new quarry, and with the other parties built up the large trade owned and maintained by G. H. White & Co. In I875 the Michigan and Ohio Plaster Company was organized under Michigan laws, a stock corporation of which Freeman Godfrey was made President, and he has since filled that position, having the management of the business. This company purchased and marketed the plaster product of nine firmsone in Iowa, one in Ohio and seven in Michigan. When the Grand Rapids National Bank was organized, in I880, he was chosen Vice President, and director, which positions he still holds. Of the Diamond Wall Finish Company, organized in 1883, he has been President continuously. In 1887 he was among the foremost in pushing the project of sinking an experimental well, and was made President of the association organized for that purpose, which bored what is known as the "Godfrey Well," or "DIeep Well," described in another part of this book. Besides the evidences of his constructive abilities in railroads and plaster works, several blocks of buildings in the business portion of the city testify to Mr. Godfrey's skill, taste and good judgment in architecture. He has a mind fertile in expedients and inventions to carry forward projects in which he becomes interested; and is eminently practical in suggestions and in details. Having opinions, he is frank to express them, and is equally candid in the advancement and discussion of theories. He is no idle spectator of the doings in public affairs; but shows a quick and active interest in the general welfare and methods of improvement. He has never been an active politician, but in political matters his aim has been to follow such light as seemed to him best, independent of strorg partisan attachments. He has but once consented to accept official preferment, and that was an appointment in 1888 to be Membar of the Board of Public Works, a place which he occupied until the spring of I890, attending to its duties with promptness and fidelity, where his advice and counsel commanded respect and carried weight. In March, i85i, he married Abby E. Eastman of Vershire, Vt. She died in this city March 21, I890. They had five children, of whom four —three sons and one daughter —are living and at the family home. His father died in April, I877, in the 79th year of his age, having then for some years been a member of the family, where he was tenderly and filially provided with all that would contribute to comfort as he neared the end of life's journey. Mr. Godfrey has been successful financially far beyond the common lot of men. Of a sanguine temperament, quick in perception and prompt in action, with force of character and steady persistence in his purposes, his plans have prospered, and he may be counted among the wealthiest of the citizens of Grand Rapids. Upright and benignant, and suavely sociable, in conduct and bearing, he has a firm place in the esteem of all with whom he is associated. GEORGE H. WHITE, as merchant, lumberman, manufacturer and dealer in real estate, was prominently active among the business men of Grand Rapids during some forty-six years. He was born at Dresden, Yates county, N. Y., Sept. 9, 1822; a son of Joseph and Lucy (Rowley) White, who were born near Watkins by the head of Seneca Lake. He was the eldest of five children, but one of whom-William B. 4 20() HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRANt) RAPIDS. White, of this city-is now living. George in his boyhood attended the schools of his native town, and at thirteen years of age went with his grandfather, Ezra Rowley, to Fountain county, Indiana, where he worked a year on a farm. In 1836 he entered a store as a clerk, and in the following year went to Covington, the county seat, where he was also engaged as a clerk until i842, in which year he came to Grand Rapids, arriving May 2, entered the store of A. and G. B. Rathbone, and remained there two years. Afterward he operated for many years as a partner with Amos Rathbone in mercantile and the lumber trade, conducting, meantime, for some five years a store at Rockford, Kent county. In 1863, and for two or three years, he was engaged in the manufacture of lumber on Rouge River and at Grand Rapids, in connection with William T. Powers, doing a successful business. In I865, with Amos Rathbone and others interested, under the firm name of George H. White & Company, he purchased the "old plaster mill" property, and in connection with it a large tract of land; and there for upward of twenty years he, with others, carried on a heavy and profitable business in the manufacture and sale of land and calcined plaster. \Vith Amos Rathbone he built nine brick stores on Monroe between Ionia and Division streets; also in 1873-74 one-third of the Aldrich, White and Godfrey block, the fine four-story stone building in which are now the Grand Rapids National Bank and several large stores at the corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets. He also dealt much in real estate, being one of the owners of Godfrey & White's city addition. He was a stockholder in the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, was chosen one of its Directors in I867, and was also a member of the Continental Improvement Company, through whose efforts that railroad was completed from Fort Wayne to Petoskey. He was a charter member of the eleventh lodge organized in Michigan of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which he joined in I848; from i86I a member of the fraternity of Freemasons; also a Knight of Pythias. In religious views Mr. White was inclined to the Universalist faith; though his family were regular attendants at St. Mark's Church. Politically, he was a Whig while the Whig party existed; afterward through life a Democrat. December i2, 1853, he married, at Rockford, Michigan, Sarah A. Hetfield, of Covington, Ind., who survives him. To them were born two daughters —now Mrs. C. B. Judd and Hattie H. White. Mr. White held and creditably filled several official positions of trust and responsibility: Register of Deeds in 1844-45; Supervisor of Algoma in i855; Mayor of Grand Rapids in 186i and 1862 -two terms-and Representative in the State Legislature for the term of 1863-64. From early youth Mr. White was dependent upon his own exertions. As a business man he was energetic and enterprising; working his way to a handsome competence in life, and at the same time aiding prominently in the progress and improvement of Grand Rapids. In social contact he was genial and accommodating, and as a citizen publicspirited-one who has left an abiding impression upon the town and community in which he lived. He died September Io, i888, at his home in Grand Rapids. The first gypsum quarry opened on the right bank or north side of Grand River was that of Richard E. Butterworth. In I849 he built a small mill near where now is the upper factory on that side of the river, below the city, and carried on the manufacture there till about i856, when he sold the place to Hovey & Company for $35,000o. Soon after the discovery by Butterworth, two other quarries were opened adjoining or near him, at one of which works were started by John Ball and Bernard Courtney; the other belonged to Adin J. Hinds, who soon sold out and moved away. Mr. Hinds, when a boy, assisted in the sinking of the salt well above Bridge street, and from the talk which he then heard concerning the dip of the strata was led to a successful search for the thirteenfoot stratum at his farm. The quarries on that side extend into the hill, under from 50 to 75 feet of earth and rock, and by the quarrying caves have been made, many acres in extent. A very heavy business is carried on by the plaster mills now in operation on that side of the river, below the city. Hovey & Company organized in I856, and built their mill the following summer. They mined about 2,000 tons the first year, and did a steadily increasing business until i860, when the Grand Rapids Plaster Company was incorporated, and the firm merged in that, its members being: Francis Fisher, .i BIOGRAPHY OF JAMES W. CONVERSE. 421 James W. Converse and Francis K. Fisher, of Boston; Charles H. Stewart of New York, and William Hovey-J. W. Converse, President; Solomon L. Withey, Vice President; C. C. Converse, Secretary; William Hovey, Treasurer and General Agent. Their factory has been known as the Eagle Mills. Mr. Converse is still at the head of the company. In 1888 Win. S. Hovey was Treasurer and Agent; Wm. McBain, Secretary. JAMES W. CONVERSE, familiarly known among his acquaintances as Deacon Converse, is a resident of Boston, but has for forty years been so largely interested by investments in this city, and has spent so much of his time here, as to seem like a citizen of Grand Rapids, of whom it is proper to give some personal account in these pages. Mr. Converse was born in Thompson, Conn., January I, i808. When he was six years old his parents removed from that place to Woodstock, Conn.; two years later to Dover, Mass., and thence to Needham. In I82I, while yet a poor boy, he left home and went to Boston, and then and there entered upon a successful and honorable career —one which should be an inspiration to the youth of this and coming generations. In that year, too, he joined the Charles Street Baptist Church. Mr. Converse was also one of the original members of Federal Street Baptist Church, Boston, organized in I827. In I828 two of his uncles assisted him to begin business in the Boyleston Market. January i, 1832, he formed a copartnership with William Hardwick, under the firm name of Hardwick & Converse, for carrying on the boot, shoe and leather business. January i, i833, he entered partnership with Isaac Field, under the style of Field & Converse, in the hide and leather trade, at 43 and 45 Broad street, Boston. September 5, I833, he married Emeline, daughter of Nathan and Nabby Coolidge, of that city. October 8, 1833, he bought a house on Pearl, between High and Purchase streets, Boston, where he lived some ten years. May i6, 1836, the Mechanics' Bank, Boston, was organized, and Mr. Converse was then elected one of its Directors, and continued in that position until I888. Alvan Simonds at the same time was appointed Cashier of the bank, and they were together in the banking business fifty-two years. July 5, 1837, he was elected Deacon of the Federal Street Baptist Church. In 1838, Isaac Field withdrew from the firm of Field & Converse, and his brother, John Field, took his place. This firm in later years became noted in this and foreign lands as among the nmost reliable and honorable in its line of business. It enjoyed excellent credit through all the panics of thirty-seven years. In I845 Mr. Converse moved to Jamaica Plains as a place of residence, uniting with the church there and becoming one of its Deacons. In 1847 he was elected President of Mechanics' Bank, a position which he held until I888. This bank never failed nor stopped. In I865 he returned to Boston, where he still lives. January i, i870, he retired from the firm of Field & Converse, since which he has been very busy building railways and in manufacturing enterprises. Much might be quoted from the testimony of his cotemporaries as to the business integrity of Deacon Conversecommendations not only from merchants and public men at the East, but from prominent citizens in the West; ascribing to him a character for uprightness beyond reproach, and free from suspicion of ill-will or wrong doing toward his neighbor, during all his more than three-score years of commercial life, with its numberless cares and perplexities. Perhaps the words of the Rev. William Howe, D. D., may convey an idea of him as he appears to one who is familiar with his life and labors. Dr. Howe writes: The Christian character early formed, and supplemented by correct business principles and enterprise, has led to a prosperous life and ultimate affluence. He has been content to patiently work his way to the goal, without aspirations for civil, religious or political distinction. He frequently has been called to occupy positions of honor, trust and great responsibility, which he has ever filled to the satisfaction of his friends and great credit to himself. His influence, like the silent, unseen forces of Nature, has been widespread, beneficent, and rich in results; like an unseen hand lifting the weak and fainting, and helping the perplexed in business crises over the dark chasm which seemed ready to engulf them. United with this private sympathy and aid are his charities only known to himself and his Lord, and his public gifts widely known and appreciated. He has been connected with several churches, and all have shared in his generous aid and support. Several church edifices have arisen wholly or in part by his munificence. A worthy object of Christian benevolence, at home or abroad, never fails to claim his attention and enlist his sympathy, and aid in larger or smaller sums. It is worthy of honorable mention that he never treats an applicant for aid coldly or rudely, but with Christian courtesy; when undecided as to the merits of the case, often saying: 4'22 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. "I have nothing at present for the object, but may have; call again." In all this appears the guiding principle of a faithful steward. Mr. Converse first visited Grand Rapids June 3, 1850, to save to the American Baptist Missionary Union its rights in the property that had been the Baptist Indian Mission reserve on the west side of the river, south of Bridge street. In that he succeeded, and afterward purchased the property; which in i856 he caused to be platted, and which is known as the Converse Addition. In a large portion of it he caused the streets to be graded, to the great advantage of the purchasers of his lots, as well as enhancement of their value. He also purchased an interest in the gypsum quarries and mills southwest of the city, with William Hovey and others, and in i856 a company was organized under the name of Hovey & Company, which was in i860 incorporated as the Grand Rapids Plaster Company, and of which Mr. Converse was chosen President, a position which he has since occupied continuously and still holds.' In the fall of 1857 he was one of the organizers of the Pearl street Bridge Company, and furnished most of the funds for the construction of the bridge in I858. He was also largely interested financially and otherwise in the construction of the first railroad from Kalamazoo, by way of Allegan, into Grand Rapids. He also furnished the funds for the construction of the railroad to Newaygo, then bearing the nhme of Grand Rapids, Newaygo and Lake Shore Railroad, he taking and negotiating the bonds maturing July i, I89I. This was in I87I. Mr. Converse has since been interested in several other manufacturing industries in this city and about; is President of the Phoenix Furniture Company, also President and principal owner of the Converse Manufacturing Company, which is the successor of the Newaygo Furniture Company, having factory, stores and mills at Newaygo. His work and investments hereabout have contributed much to the growth and progress of Grand Rapids. Nor has he been unmindful of the welfare of the Baptist Church people here. The Second Baptist Church, at the corner of California and Gold streets, is the outgrowth of his liberal munificence; he having, in I883, made a gift to the society of the lot and built and furnished the house of worship thereon. William Hovey was a native of Concord, Mass., born December 3, I812. In the earlier part of his life he was a carpenter and joiner and manufacturer. He came to Grand Rapids in i856, and engaged in the manufacture of calcined and land plaster. In I86o he was one of the organizers of the Grand Rapids Plaster Company, and was thereafter its General Manager and Treasurer during his life; also business agent here of J. W\. Converse. Ever after 1827 he was a member of the Baptist Church. He was a man of enterprise and a valued citizen. He was averse to holding office, but in I879 accepted that of Member of the Board of Public Works. He was a Republican in politics. He died November 21, 188i, in this city, much loved and mourned. The manufacture of stucco or calcined plaster from gypsum, was very early conmmenced here, and the article produced is of excellent quality. The story of the first experiment at Grand Rapids in the making of stucco is well worth the telling. The first plastering and laying of brick chimneys with lime mortar was done in the house of Louis Campaii, at the corner of Monroe and Waterloo streets, by James Clark; and the lime used was made by William McCausland, the first burned here, in a kiln by the river bank near Huron street. Richard Godfroy's house was the second one plastered, and on the gables outside was put a stucco finish. Mr. Clark had learned how JAMES CI.ARK. gypsum was calcined before he came here. He procured some of the rock, broke it into LAND PLASTER AND STUCCO. 423 small bits by hammering, took it to the Indian mill and there had it ground. He then boiled it in a cauldron kettle, thus making stucco for his use. In the gables of that house were circular windows, around which he put mouldings of stucco work. The first effort was a failure, they fell off; but in a second attempt he succeeded-they stuck, and the finish on the gables of that house remained in good condition until it burned in I850. In I845 Daniel Prindle was engaged in making stucco flower pots, vases and other tasty articles. This stucco manufacture has proved very valuable to the plaster business and trade. Grand Rapids stucco is in great demand at all available markets as a superior article. Its use in the finishing of interior walls, and in ornamental work, is familiar to everybody. Doubtless the first cornice work here on the inside of rooms, in house finishing, was done by Philip Stewart, about I844, in a house at the corner of Bronson and Ottawa streets. It was at one time thought that the gypsum stone could be utilized for building purposes, and three or four business blocks and a few dwelling houses were faced with that material. It made a handsome finish, but proved deficient in quality, the stone disintegrating under exposure to the action of the elements. It is easily worked, and has been shaped into a variety of useful and fanciful articles and ornaments, such as napkin rings, cups and saucers, vases, etc., but this use of it has not developed any important business interest. IANI) PLASTER AND STUCCO. The land plaster and stucco trade has been a very important factor in the business of this city and its vicinity. In the early part of 1859 large shipments were made over the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad, of plaster for farm use, the first of the sort by railway. It sold in Eastern and southern parts of the State, in competition with supplies from the East, at $7.50 per ton. In Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Western Ohio, also, it won favor as a fertilizer, and the demand rapidly increased. But the market conditions for the gypsum product have greatly changed. Up to about I880 or later, two-thirds of the output from Kent county was in land plaster, and the minor portion in calcined plaster or stucco. The proportions are reversed. In 1889, I5,000 tons of land plaster and about double that amount of the calcined product would represent approximately the amount of the export from Kent county quarries and mills. CHAPTER XXXIX. FLOURING MILLS, SAW MILLS AND LUMBER. G RIS'I' MILLS. The first grist mill in Grand Rapids was made in I834 by putting a run of stones into the Indian mission saw mill which stood near where is now the railway junction above the north line of the city, west side. For lack of water power it could do but little work, and the stones were not of the best quality. But it cracked some corn for the pioneers, and did the first grinding of gypsum for making stucco, in I835. The mill was abandoned about two years later. Up to the time of railroad communication, there were only two grist mills doing much business. In I836-37, Dwight and James Lyman built a grist mill on Coldbrook, a little above where now is the railroad station. A man named Fish, and after him John C. Stonehouse, were millers there. In I838 some gypsum grinding, for plaster of paris, was done at that mill. Afterward some wood turning machinery was operated in connection with it, and Charles W. Taylor put in a second set of stones. The stream did not furnish sufficient power to run it steadily in dry seasons, but this became a popular custom mill, and flour from it for home use always found ready sale. In I861-62 it was operated by Asahel Hubbard. Some years later its use became unprofitable, and the flouring apparatus was removed. February 28, i880, the building was blown down in a gale. In 1836 the foundations were laid for the building which came to be known as the "Big Mill." It stood by the river bank, nearly opposite the foot of Hastings street. It was begun by Lyon & Sargeant. In the same year N. O. Sargeant sold his interest to Carroll, Almy and Richmond. The superstructure was erected in I837 by Smith & Brownell, builders. James A. Rumsey assisted in the building, and was the first miller, operating it until I845. In 1846 it was purchased by John L. Clements and Martin L. Sweet, who operated it till I854. With Sweet for some years afterward was associated James M. Barnett. Sweet built in 1854 another large mill, a wood structure, on the east side of Canal street, opposite the "Big Mill." Both mills were sold about twenty years ago to Gardner & Armitage. July I3, 1873, the new mill was destroyed by fire. A little later the old one also burned, and its walls were torn down in September, I879. The sites are now occupied by manufacturing establishments. The stone work of the original foundation of the "big mill" was but recently removed. The grist mill known for nearly thirty years as the Kent Mills stood between Canal street and the mill-race, a few rods south of Bridge street. It was in a stone building, built by John W. Squier in 1842-43, and was owned and managed by him thereafter. The castings, nachinery and millstones were brought down Grand River from Jackson in a scow or flat-bottomed boat. In 1844 he put in wool carding and cloth dressing machinery which were for a time operated in connection with the mill. It had a good custom and was popular with wheat raisers as well as consumers at home, and its product was in brisk demand abroad after exportation of flour began. This mill was destroyed by fire in May, 1872, at which time it had been operated by H. Grinnell & Co. for a few years. The Valley City Mills (Mill street, north side of Bridge) were built in 1867, by A. X. Cary & Co. They are still in operation, and have for twenty years done a brisk business. Mr. Cary was their principal manager during ten or twelve years. They are now operated by the Valley City Milling Company, established in 1884, of which C. G. Swensberg is President, M. S. Crosby, Vice President, and Wm. N. Rowe, Mana FLOURING MILLS, SAW MILLS AND LUMBER. 425 ger. Among their specialties is the manufacture of "roller champion" and " Lily white" flour. The mills are now known as the Grand Rapids Roller Mills. They use both steam and water power. The Globe Mill (Mill street, south of Bridge) was erected in i868 by G. M. Huntly and C. A. Moross. It was chiefly a custom mill at first, but put in rollers and ground largely for the trade in later years. It is still at work, having passed into the hands of the Valley City Milling Company. It has an elevator attached. In 1873, and three following years, it was run by Jesse Widoe, and afterward by I. W. Wood, until it came into the hands of the present proprietors. In both mills this company do a heavy business, aggregating over half a million dollars per annum. The Star Mills on the west bank of the river below Bridge street, were built in i868 by Wellington Hibbard & Co. In 1870 the firm became Mangold, Hibbard & Co., John Mangold having purchased a large interest. In 1875, after the death of Mr. Mangold, it became Mangold, Kusterer & Co., Voigt & Herpolsheimer having bought the Hibbard interest, and Christopher Kusterer having purchased that of the Mangold estate. In I88I the firm became C. G. A. Voigt & Co. (Carl G. A. Voigt, W. G. Herpolsheimer and Louisa F. Mangold), by whom the mills have since been operated. It is equipped with eight runs of stone, half a dozen purifiers, several sets of rollers and bolts to correspond. The machinery is driven by water power principally, though steam is attached for use when needed. The buildings, which are large and four stories high, are of wood. Some 225 barrels of flour a day in the average, while at work, have been turned out by these mills. Joseph Rowland established a custom mill in the brick building which had been erected for a woolen factory, Mill street, nearly opposite Hastings, in i868. It has since been in operation, doing custom and merchant work, as a feed and flour mill, doing a moderate but steady business. The Crescent Mills, of brick, capacious and well equipped, were erected in 1875 by Hibbard, Rose & Co. Seven runs of burr stones were put in, for flouring exclusively. The original cost, including machinery, was $65,ooo. In 1876 they passed into the hands of Hibbard & Graff, and were operated 40 by John F. Graff, as lessee, until about 1883, when they were purchased by C. G. A. Voigt and W. G. Herpolsheimer, who have since carried them on, the business name being the Voigt Milling Company. Their flour is in high repute. They have a capacity of near 200 barrels per day, and the product is shipped largely to the New England States. In 1877 Henry Spink and Tjerk Veenstra started a wholesale feed and flour mill at 122 Ellsworth avenue, which has been in operation since. A small inland establishment called the Swan Mills, for the manufacture of kilndried and buckwheat flour, and feed, was started in 1876 by Thomas Swanenberg and Henry Lindhout, near the junction of Center and Pleasant streets, and operated for a short time. In I88 W. W. Hatch and Henry Mitchell erected the Model Mills on Winter street, south of West Bridge, for the special manufacture of "roller process" flour, and operated them some three years, after which they passed into the hands of Herbert P. and Harry L. Blanchard. They have been removed to the side of the railroad track near the west end of the G. R. & I. R. R. bridge, where they are still in operationJ. W. Converse proprietor, 0. E. Brown manager-under the name of 0. E. Brown Milling Company. The buildings are much enlarged by additions. They have an elevator of 75,000 bushels storage capacity; flour storage for 7,000 barrels, and the working capacity is 200 barrels per day. EARLY SAW MILLS. The first saw mill in Grand Rapids was that for the Slater Indian Mission, built at Government expense in I832, by Gideon H. Gordon. It was on that little creek near the north line of the city, west side, called Indian Mill Creek, and stood near where now is the railroad junction. It was a small, slow mill, with the old-fashioned upright saw, capable of cutting, perhaps, from five to eight hundred feet of boards per day, when there was water sufficient to keep it in motion. There was made the lumber for a school house and meeting house at the Baptist Indian Mission, and for a small house and chapel at the Catholic Mission. Boards were also sawed there for the pioneer dwelling house of Joel Guild, 426 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GiAND RAPIDS. and for some other buildings put up by Louis Campau and others in 1833 and I834. Some lumber was procured there also for early building in Ionia. When Darius Winsor came down here, he purchased or leased the mill, and ran it for a short time. The creek was very small, and the mill could not be operated steadily, it being necessary to allow the dam to fill, the pond covering several acres of ground, but very shallow, then saw till the water ran out, when the operation must be repeated. A pair of grist mill stones were put in that mill, for cracking corn to make hominy for the Indians and settlers, but did not do very good execution, and were not run very long. It had its day, doing some good service for the pioneers, and was soon allowed to go to decay. The second saw mill was built at the east channel of the river, just above the present site of Sweet's Hotel. It was begun by Luther Lincoln, and completed in the spring of 1834 by Abram S. Wadsworth. A low dam was constructed from the head of Island No. i to the east bank, and the power was applied through an undershot wheel. It was a lazy mill, the old-fashioned upright saw hung in its cumbersome sash or gate frame, and did its work slowly. Not much lumber was cut there. The mill stood but a few years, and the great freshet of 1838 swept it away. But it furnished slabs for building several pioneer huts. Three saw mills were built in the town of Wyoming in 1834, another in 1835, and one in 1836 on Plaster Creek where has since been a plaster mill. Louis Campau had a mill built by Josiah Burton on the small stream that runs into Plaster Creek, just south of the city. Some ten years later it was run by James A. Rumsey, who built another there. In the winter of 1837-38 Harry H. Ives built a mill for William H. Withey, some miles above the rapids, west of the river, on a small creek. And near the same time Samuel White and Sons erected a saw mill a short distance northwest of this town; and James M. and George C. Nelson also built one on Mill Creek. From these little outside mills much of the lumber was procured for building during several years after settlement. About 1837 was planted the first mill with a muley saw in this section-a small one on the little Lamberton Creek that comes to the river near the Soldiers' Home. It was a novelty, and attracted considerable attention at the time. It was operated only a few years. The first saw mill on the race, or east side canal, was built by James M. Nelson and H. P. Bridge, in 1837, at the north end of the "big mill" of Lyon & Sargeant. In the beginning the intention was to put in a gang of sixty saws at that "big mill," but the panic of 1837 took the teeth out of many a great speculation, and this mill with a single saw was not after all a very poor outcome for these times. The second saw mill by the canal was that of James H. Scott, just above Bridge street, and the third was that of James M. Nelson a few rods below, built in 1842. Near Nelson's was the Haldane mill, and a little above, shortly afterward,was built the Harry Wartrous mill. In i85I Powers & Ball built a small mill east of the canal, by Erie street, which they operated with a muley saw for a few years. In 1854 C. C. Comstock built a mill adjoining that of Wartrous. In i858 David Caswell and Rosenberg & Day were running saw mills by the canal. All the early mills were run by water power and only cut from I,500,ooo to 2,000,000 feet each per season. A mill which would turn out 4,500 feet per day was in those times considered an exceptionally good one -mills that would cut ten times as much had not then been invented. There was in 1837 a mill with an overshot wheel on Coldbrook, just east of Plainfield avenue, afterward owned by Charles W. Taylor. It was built by Dwight and James Lyman, who in 1837 advertised for I,ooo pine logs, to be delivered at the head of the rapids. LATER AND STEAM SAW MILLS. About I853 Powers, Ball & Co. put up the first steam mill, with a circular saw, in this region. It was north of Leonard street, where the Long & Company mill now stands, west side. The latter was built in I873. Wonderly & Company erected a large mill near there in 1870, with a cutting capacity of ioo,ooo feet or more daily. In 1864 C. C. Comstock built the water power mill near the head of the east side canal and put in a circular saw, which was burned down in 1878, but rebuilt and is still running. He also built in I868 a water power FLOURING MILLS, SAW MITLLS AND LUMBER. 4't mill by the river bank opposite Erie street, where the Leitelt machine shops are. This also was burned in 1871, rebuilt and again burned in I884. About 1865 Elijah D. and Daniel H. Waters built a saw mill and box factory south of the old Nelson mill on the canal, which was burned several years later. When William T. Powers finished his west side canal he built a saw mill at the foot, but subsequently turned the power to other uses. There was also a saw mill run in connection with the agricultural implement works on that side of the river. On the east side, by the head of Canal street and below the railway, B. R. Stevens & Sons put up a steam sawmill, about 1864. This was afterward sold to Robinson, Solomon & Co., rebuilt on a larger scale, and finally, two or three years ago, sold and removed. Benjamin Ferris about the same time with Stevens & Sons, built a mill which was afterward purchased by L. H. Withey & Company, who operated it till about six years ago, when the machinery was sold and taken away. Ichabod L. Quimby also for a number of years operated a mill near the one last mentioned. In 1882 C. C. Comstock built a steam power saw mill on the bank of the river above the chair factory. This was burned down in 1884, and rebuilt by the Cupples Wooden Ware Company, who were running it. The mill now cuts about 7,000,000 feet of logs per annum into lumber, besides large quantities of pail and tub staves. C. F. Nason had for about a dozen years a steam power saw mill a little north of the D., G. H. & M. Railway junction, west side, which burned about four years ago. The Phcenix Furniture Company also have built and operated a large saw mill in connection with their factory. This comprises nearly a full list of the saw mills of Grand Rapids in their order. Their business is almost completed, the timber available for sawing at this point being so far consumed that comparatively little work for them remains;. The capital invested in them, and the power which they have employed, must be turned to other industrial uses, if not abandoned. As the march of improvement brings in new inventions and new industries, their places are supplied by new undertakings, and still the manufacturing interests increase and grow. PINE LUMBER. The beginning of lumber shipments from this point was made by George C. and James M. Nelson, and William H. Withey, about 1838. It is claimed that the first lumber rafts down the river were sent out in that year by James M. Nelson. About that time, or soon after, George W. Dickinson brought down a raft of 30,000 feet of lumber from Flat River, said to be the first one from that locality. For twenty years from the commencement of the. lumber trade, the only profitable avenue for shipments to other markets was by floatage to Grand Haven and shipment from that port by lake vessels. Until I850 or thereabout, the growth of the lumbering business was moderate, but as the western country filled up the demand increased and the trade grew rapidly. The forests along the river and its branches contributed also somewhat, but not very largely, to the furnishing of timber for ship-building. Occasionally a very fine stick for a mast or a spar or keel for a lake vessel was procured. In July, 1846, a stick for the keel of a new propeller, designed to run between Grand Haven and Buffalo, the hull of which was then building here, was hauled across the bridge and down just below the present steamboat landing. Such incidents, however, were isolated items, not belonging strictly to the lumber trade. In i855, lumber shipments from Grand River at its mouth, amounted to 45,000,000 feet, and an estimated value of $450,000. Of this the larger part went down from the rapids in rafts or in logs. Shipments of the same year also included about Ioo,ooo worth of shingles and $33,000 worth of lath. The principal sources of supply of logs for sawing here, and also of logs floated past this point to Grand Haven, were extensive tracts of pine timber along Rouge River, Flat River, Maple River, Fish Creek, and one or two other affluents of Grand River, with their tributaries, above Grand Rapids. These forests, within available distance of streams for running logs, have furnished thousands of millions of feet of the finest of pine timber, but under the destroying hand of the lumberman, have been rapidly stripped until the supply is almost gone. But little timber is left that will be available here, either by river or railroad, except 428 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. what must be utilized for home manufacturing uses, and for these every kind, soft and hard, that grows in these woods, is already in demand. The young man of twenty to-day will see, at fifty or sixty years, little or no wood for manufacture, for building, or even for fuel, in this part of Michigan. Some other material must take its place, very largely; possibly our buildings may yet be grown on the farm lands, and worked into shape from fiber and straw, as paper is made. There are now only one or two operators at Grand Rapids who have any pine supplies left, or who will saw any lumber for the outside market hereafter. Grand Haven parties are also doing their last work in lumbering, and there will be few or no logs floated in Grand River after I890. LOG RUNNING AND BOOMING. The Grand Rapids Boom Company was organized in 1870, and since that date has handled all the logs in Grand River that have been run to or below this city. Prior to its organization the Rouge River and other log running companies did substantially a similar business, but often each owner looked after his own. The principal officers of the Grand Rapids Boom Company have been: President-I. L. Quimby, 1870-74; C. C. Comstock, I875-76; L. H. Withey, I877 and since. Treasurer —L. H. Withey, 1870-74. Secretary- F. Letellier, 1870; Daniel H. Little, 1871; W. J. Long, I872 -73; F. Letellier, I874. Since 1874 F. Letellier has been Secretary and Treasurer. Besides the logs delivered by this company to local mills, during the seventeen years of its existence, it has passed by for parties at the mouth of the river not less than 2,000,ooo,ooo feet. The following table shows the deliveries to saw mills here; in connection with which the explanation should be made that on July 26, 1883, a flood in the river broke away the boom and bridge and let all logs then in down the river, involving losses then estimated at upward of $300,000 in the aggregate, a portion of which was retrieved by stopping many in their passage toward the lake: YEAR. FEET. 1871............................... 33,251,605 1872........................... 33,068,290 1873............................ 56,339,522 1874................................. 39,688,985 1875............................ 41,830,671 1876................................ 33,689,699 1877.................................. 37,838,092 1878..............................:.. 25,177,982 1879................................. 32,040,455 1880.................................. 38,678,579 1881.................................. 53,277,398 1882................................. 54,354,498 1883................................. 21,911,423 1884................................. 44,400,287 1885.................................. 22,731,199 1886................................. 24,002.737 1887................................. 30,947,053 1888.................................. 31,747,376 Total............................. 654,975,851 THOMAS STEWART WHITE-a resident of the Grand River Valley from his birth, and prominently active in its business life during the past quarter of a centuryis a son of Thomas W. and Caroline N. White, of New England nativity. Captain Thomas W. White is well remembered by all old residents as prominent among the pioneers, and in the development and progress of this region. He was born November i6, 1805, came to Grand Haven, Mich., in June, I835, and in I866 removed to Grand Rapids, where he died January 5, 1884. Capt. White was a member of the State Legislature in I844, and was influential in procuring the grant of land for the building of the first bridge across Grand River in this city at Bridge street. He won an enviable reputation as an honorable man and good citizen. T. Stewart White was born at Grand Haven, Mich., June 28, I840. His education was that of the common school, rounded out by the many and varied experiences of the early days in this valley, and the training of active business life. At nineteen years of age he was employed in the bank of Ferry & Sons at Grand Haven, where he remained about three years; in 1863 and I864 was shipping and receiving clerk'in a wholesale grocery house at Chicago, and in I865 returned to Grand Haven and again entered the bank of Ferry & Sons as Cashier. In i866 he came to Grand Rapids. In 1867 he formed a partnership with Capt. Heber Squier of Grand Haven; the firm owning tugs, dredges and pile drivers, for wrecking, and contracting for harbor work along lake Michigan. This business they carried on some ten years, and it is continued at present by White & Finch, as contractors only. In I868 he formed a partnership with John M. Avery, under the firm name of White & Avery, in , ~I 17,_ r i' THOMAS STEWART WHITE —THOMAS FRIANT. 429 the lumber business; afterward merged successively with the firm of Robinson, Solomon & Co., Robinson, Letellier & Co., Letellier & White, and the present firm of White, Friant & Letellier. In I869 Mr. White formed a partnership with Thomas Friant, which still continues as White & Friant; taking charge of all the logs in the river at Grand Rapids, running them to Grand Haven; booming, sorting and delivering them to the mills, for twenty-one years. Also in connection with John Rugee, of Milwaukee, Wis., the firms of White, Friant & Co., and White & Friant Lumber Company were formed. Mr. White is President of the latter, by which an extensive lumber business is carried on; involving the handling in 1890 of some 45,000,000 feet. He has been a Director in the First National Bank of Grand Haven since its organization; was for a time a Director in the Fourth National Bank of Grand Rapids; is a Director in the National City Bank, and also in the Michigan Trust Company of this city; is President of the Grand Rapids Safety Deposit Company, and Vice President of the Grand Rapids Fire Insurance Company. He has uniformly avoided active political life and public or official positions. Mr. White married April 20, 1870, Mary E. Daniell. of Milwaukee, and the family live quietly and unpretentiously in a pleasant home at Waverly Place, this city. THOMAS FRIANT is a native of Kent county, "to the manor born." His parents, Cornelius and Huldah (Hatch) Friant, came to Michigan in I837 from Wayne county, N. Y., and settled in Plainfield, this county, bringing their goods by Grand River from Portland, after having taken up land and built a log cabin. His father was a stalwart, vigorous man, with the will and energy characteristic of the successful pioneer. Thomas Friant was born in Plainfield, Kent county, Michigan, February i6, I840. In youth he attended the district school, doing farm work also, until at the age of 17 years he commenced teaching school in the winter season. In 1858 he entered the lumber office of Hopkins & Friant at Grand Haven, where an elder brother was one of the firm, and afterward was in the forwarding office of Galen Eastman at the same place. From 1862 to 1867 he was engaged in the business of druggist, and held several town offices, among them those of Justice of the Peace and Town Clerk. In 1869 he worked for Nelson, Comstock & Co. of Grand Rapids as book-keeper, and also as book-keeper for Comstock & Wartrous. In 1870 he went into partnership with Squier & White of Grand Haven and entered into contract with the Ottawa County Boom Company to run, raft and deliver all logs on Grand River destined for Grand Haven. In 1873 White & Friant renewed this contract and have conducted the business ever since to the end, up to 1890, when they had no more to handle, the entire output of the pine forests tributary to Grand River having "gone west." Since 1879 the firm of White & Friant have also been engaged in the manufacture and sale of pine lumber, under the different firm names of White, Friant & Co., White & Friant Lumber Company, and White, Friant & Letellier. At present they are actively engaged in manufacturing at Manistee and Menominee. Mr. Friant is a representative of the active, pushing, enterprising and successful business men of Western Michigan. Grand Rapids has been his home and headquarters during most of his business life. SASH, DOORS AND BLINDS. In the beginnings of the village the skilled carpenter and joiner usually carried in his chest the tools necessary for the making of mouldings, casings, sash, doors and blinds. These things were plainer and simpler in construction than now, fifty years ago, when all the work was patiently wrought by hand. Haldane, Burnett, Woodward, Covell, Blakely, and other early comers of the craft, usually peformed their own work in this line. James M. Haldane was perhaps the first to make a specialty of manufacturing window sash and blinds to be kept on hand for sale. His shop was on Prospect Hill in January, 1842, where he advertised to supply farmers and others at short notice. Alson D. Pelton in the same year advertised a stock of window sash on hand at a shop one door east of the bookstore. That was on what is now Crescent avenue and fronting the County Building site. He also advertised that he was "on hand at the shortest notice for any kind of work in the carpenter and joiner line, from a meeting house to a hen coop." Soon after the lengthening of the east side canal, about I844, James H. Scott operated a sash 430 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS and blind factory in connection with his pail works, just north of Bridge street. In I854 Kelley & Livingston. and in the following year D. & J. S. Kelley, were making doors, sash and blinds by hand in a little factory on the south side of Monroe street, below Ionia, and Adolphus N. Bacon was making blinds to order, by hand work, near the corner of Ionia and Fountain streets. At about this time came the introduction of planing machines here, and very soon Charles C. Comstock, Noyes & Berkey, Elias Skinner, Edward F. Ward, N. A. Harrington & Co., the Pew Brothers, Charles D. Blakeslee and others had planing mills and sash, door and blind factories along the canal and in the vicinity of Canal street. Until Ward, Skinner & Brooks, together with Mr. Comstock, introduced new machinery, most of the doors, sash and blinds made here were such as would not now be used in the cheapest of dwelling houses. They improved the goods, changed the styles, and revolutionized the trade, besides reducing prices. With the large amount of building that has been done here, and the great quantity of lumber that has been cut and used in this market, the sash, door and blind business has been a heavy, attractive and in many cases a lucrative one. For a good portion of the last twenty-five years it has been among the leading occupations. In it a great deal of money has been invested, and for the supply of the home demand alone it is a very important industry, saying nothing of the vast amount of the products exported. Among the later mills and factories of this class in operation, are those of Blakeley & Jenison, C. C. Comstock, L. M. Cutcheon, Dregge & Hodenpyl, Fuller & Rice, White, Friant & Letellier, Rowson Brothers, and DeGraaf, Vrieling & Co. To make a complete list would be impracticable. At the present time half a dozen factories are using nearly $50,000ooo of invested capital, giving work to from go to 100 employes and turning out a product amounting to not far from $225,000 annually. Among local establishments dealing in rough and dressed lumber and shingles is the lately established enterprise of J. F. Quigley & Co. (John F. Quigley and Frank H. Furman), occupying an acre of ground by the G. R. & I. R. R., between First and Second avenues. The partners in the firm have separately been many years in the business. Doing chiefly a home trade, they handle, besides lath and shingles, nearly half a million feet of lumber per month. The planing mill of S. P. Swartz on First avenue also does a lively business. To attempt an enumeration in detail of all, in this city, who have been or are manufacturing and dealing in lumber, would be useless. Dealers in pine lands and lumber have done heavy business since the war closed in I865. Among the more prominent who have been in the trade, some of them for periods varying from ten to thirty years, may be mentioned C. C. Comstock, White, Friant & Letellier, Barnhart Lumber Company, L. M. Cutcheon, D. A. Blodgett, Osterhout & Fox Lumber Company, Dunham, Peters & Company, Fuller & Rice, the brothers E. Crofton and Charles Fox, David M. Benjamin, Wetzell Brothers, W. F. Raiguel & Company. It is a business using capital in the aggregate estimated at upward of $3,600,ooo, chiefly furnished here, yielding an annual product of some $8,000,000, and giving work to more than 1,250 employes. The market is wide, domestic and in almost every State in the Union. The local trade has passed its zenith; with the rapid destruction of the woods, the period of its decline has nearly reached its terminus and the final cessation of the business. ETHELBERT CROFTON FOX, more familiarly known as Col. E. Crofton Fox, capitalist and lumberman, fifth son of the Rev. Charles and Anna M. (Rucker) Fox, was born June i8, 1852, on Grosse Isle, Wayne county, Michigan, and he and his younger brother, Charles, are the only surviving members of a family of six sons. His father was the fourth son of George T. and Anne S. (Crofton) Fox, and was born November 22, I815, at Westoe, County of Durham, England. He was educated at Rugby School, which he left at the age of sixteen years to engage in mercantile pursuits. In 1833 his father sent him to New York. His business calling him into various parts of the United States and Canada, he made many friends and acquaintances among those who were, or afterward became, prominent members of New York society.' During this time he developed a taste for natural history, and made many small collections of animal and bird skins, mr"/IZ VAOMW / I./ JR/^ 414 BIOGRAPHY OF ETHELBERT CROFTON FOX. 431 of fish, and specimens of mineralogy, which he sent to his father in England, who took much interest in the Newcastle Museum, and was making collections for a museum of natural history in Durham. In the latter part of 1835 he returned to England, to take a course of study in the University at Durham. Returning to America he studied for the ministry, and was ordained a Deacon in Hartford, Connecticut, June ii, 1839. Mr. Fox soon after accepted a call to St. Paul's Episcopal Church at Jackson, Michigan, the first church organization in Jackson, save that of the Free Will Baptists which had been organized in February of the same year. His first sermon was preached in the Court House, August i, 1839. He was ordained a Priest, December i of that year, at St. Paul's Church, Detroit. In I84I he resigned his Rectorship at Jackson to accept a call to Trinity Church, Columbus, Ohio. This charge he soon resigned to accept an invitation from the Bishop of Michigan to become his assistant in St. Paul's Church, Detroit. In the spring of 1843 Mr. Fox resigned this charge and purchased a farm on Grosse Isle. Having but little knowledge of practical farming, he devoted himself to a thorough study of the subject, and soon mastered it both theoretically and practically, and during his residence there organized the Island into a separate parish, an Episcopal Church being founded and a building erected through his efforts. In 1852 he began publishing the Farmers' Companion and Horticullural Gazelte, opening an office in Detroit for that purpose. Its publication was, however, brought to a sudden close by the untimely death of Mr. Fox, which occurred July 24, I854, at Detroit, from an attack of Asiatic cholera. Mr. Fox had been instrumental in establishing an agricultural school in connection with the University of Michigan, and, while occupying the chair of Professor of Agriculture, he wrote and published the American Text Book of Practical and Scientific Agriculture, which proved to be a work of extensive research, and admirably adapted for the purpose for which it was written. His death cut short a useful career which promised much to the religious and temporal welfare of the people of Michigan. The.nother of our subject, Anna Maria Rucker, was a daughter of John Anthony Rucker of Grosse Isle, and a native of Newark, N. J., where she was born September I, i816. She and her parents were passengers on the Walk-in-the-Water, the first steamer on the lakes in 1818. Mrs. Fox is-still living, and in good health, residing with her son in Grand Rapids. E. Crofton Fox received his early education at the hands of a private tutor, and in i86, when his mother removed to Detroit in order to give her sons better educational advantages, he entered the private school of Prof. Philo M. Patterson, continuing his studies there until i868, and working on his mother's farm on Grosse Isle during the summer vacations. The family then removed to Ann Arbor, where our subject entered the High School, from which he graduated in 1871, and entered the Literary Department of the University of Michigan, in the class of I875. In 1873 he left the University and came alone to Grand Rapids, entering a hardware store as clerk, remaining about nine months, when he associated himself in business with Willard Barnhart, and Smith W. Osterhout, under the name of Barnhart, Osterhout & Fox, to engage in buying and selling lumber at wholesale. The capital of the firm was somewhat limited, Mr. Fox borrowing five thousand dollars, which he contributed as his portion. For the first two years he attended to the outside business of the firm, selling lumber from Louisville, Kentucky, to Boston, Massachusetts, and subsequently spent several years in charge of the logging and manufacturing departments. They commenced manufacturing in I876, their mill being located at Pierson, and afterward at Fife Lake, Grand Traverse county, and Crofton, Kalkaska county. In addition to this branch, the firm engaged extensively in buying and selling pine lands. In 1876 Mr. Barnhart retired from the firm, and Mr. Charles Fox became a partner, the name being changed to Osterhout, Fox & Co., and in 1882 the Osterhout & Fox Lumber Co. was incorporated, with a capital stock of $260,000, paid up, the officers being Smith W. Osterhout, President; Robert Cutler, Vice-President; E. Crofton Fox, Treasurer, and Charles Fox, Secretary; these officers continuing until January i, 1889, when, owing to the death of Mr. Osterhout, December 2, i888, E. Crofton Fox was elected President; Robert Cutler, Vice President; W. G. Hinman, Treasurer, and Charles Fox, Secretary. From 432 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. 1875. to I880 the company were large manufacturers and shippers of shingles by rail, some years shipping as high as one hundred millions. In 1878 and 1879 they made large purchases of pine lands in Lake county, containing about I75,000,000 feet of standing pine, and a mill was built at Deer Lake, to which the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad built a spur line known as the Manistee branch. Of this timber about oo00, 00ooo, feet have been cut. They are also owners of other tracts of pine lands in various parts of the Lower Peninsula and Wisconsin. In addition to their own mills, the services of several others have been utilized in cutting their timber under contract. Their trade extends from Kansas City, west; through Ohio, Indiana, northern Kentucky, southern Michigan, Pennsylvania, and other Eastern States. In I888 the volume of business transacted amounted to over $300, - ooo, employing from I50 to 200 men. Mr. Fox is also the owner of a considerable tract of pine land in the Northern Peninsula, and is Secretary and Treasurer of the Leaf River Lumber Co., of Grand Rapids, the capital stock of which is $250,000, organized for the purpose of purchasing timber lands and manufacturing lumber in Mississippi. He was one of the incorporators of the Kent County Savings Bank, and has been a member of its Board of Directors since its organization, December 24, I884. He is also a Director of the Old National Bank of Grand Rapids; likewise a Director of the Grand Rapids Fire Insurance Company, and one of its original stockholders. He was one of the organizers of the Grand Rapids Board of Trade, since when he has been a member of its Board of Directors, and its Treasurer. He is also connected with numerous other business enterprises throughout the State. In politics Mr. Fox has always been a Republican, and in 1879 served as Chairman of the Republican City Committee of Grand Rapids. In 1887 he was appointed by Gov. Luce, a member of the State Military Board, with the rank of Colonel, and was elected its President. He was reappointed in I888, and re-elected President of the Board. Col. Fox was made a Mason in Valley City Lodge, No. 86, in I875, and has taken all the degrees to the thirty second, inclusive. He is a member of the Grand Rapids Chapter No 7, Royal Arch Masons, and is Commander-in-Chief of DeWitt Clinton Con sistory of Grand Rapids. He is also a member of DeMolai Commandery, No. 5, Knights Templar, of Grand Rapids. He is also a member of Eureka Lodge, No. 2, Knights of Pythias, and of the Chi Psi Society, the oldest secret organization of the University of Michigan. Mr. Fox is a member of St. Mark's Episcopal Church of Grand Rapids, of which he has been a Vestryman since i888. A friend of Col. Fox, speaks of him as follows: It has been my privilege to have been intimately acquainted with him for the past seventeen years. He possesses a character that few have, combining that of nobility, kindness for all, unswerving integrity and pure Christian motives and desires. His thoughtfulness for his friends has always been marked in the "little things" of life so often neglected. It is unnecessary to speak of his standing as a business man, because that is well known and established in the different communities where he has been engaged. His success has been that which naturally crowns an upright, conscientious career. Few persons have the privilege of as many friends, and as much honest respect as he. CHARLES FOX, lumberman and capitalist, is the youngest of six sons of the Rev. Charles and Anna M. (Rucker) Fox. Some of the salient points in the life of his parents are given with the biographic sketch of Col. E. Crofton Fox, and need not be here repeated. The junior Charles, the subject of this sketch, was born at Ann Arbor, Michigan, December 15, 1853, his father at that time being a Professor in the State University, and giving courses of lectures on agricultural topics. Shortly afterward the family moved to their farm at Grosse Isle, where they resided until he was seven years of age, when the mother moved to Detroit, the father having died in I854. There they lived until he was fourteen, he in the meantime attending the private school of Professor P. M. Patterson. They then moved to Ann Arbor,where, after graduating from the High School in I87I, he entered the University, taking the classical course. In 1872, during his freshman year, he shipped at Gloucester, Mass., on a mackerel vessel, for the benefit of his health, and spent eight weeks fishing in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. From the University he graduated in 1875, and immediately sailed from Boston for Europe in company with his brother, Dr. G. T. Fox, his mother, and his uncle and aunt, Sir William and Lady Fox of New Zealand; remaining abroad until j CHARLES FOX-S. W. OSTERHOUT-AMASA B. WATSON. 433 the following spring, traveling in England, France, Germany and Italy, and visiting Egypt. Returning in March, 1876, he came to Grand Rapids and engaged in the manufacture of lumber, purchasing a one-third interest in the firm of Osterhout, Fox & Company. Here he remained until 1883, when he took another tour abroad, traveling in Ireland, Scotland, France, Spain, Algiers and other countries, spending some six months thus. Since then he has devoted his time chiefly to his business interests at Grand Rapids; but in I886 took a trip through Nova Scotia and the region thereabout. In 1885 he organized the firm of Fox & May, which operated in the region along the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, and which was afterward reorganized into the Grand Rapids Tie and Lumber Company, extensive lumber manufacturers in the Northern Peninsula of Michigan. Mr. Fox is President of the last named company; Secretary of the Osterhout & Fox Lumber Company; a Director in the Michigan Trust Company, and is also a Director in the Owashtanong Club, a social organization of this city. Besides the above business connections, he is interested in mining in the Upper Peninsula; also in valuable Mexican mining concessions in the State of Chihuahua, controlled by Grand Rapids capital, and at the time of this writing (January, I890) has started for a six months' tour in Mexico and the West Indies, and to make a personal inspection of the last named properties. Mr. Fox has never married. In politics he is a Republican; in religious affiliation an Episcopalian, and a member of St. Mark's Church in Grand Rapids. Since i88I he has been a Mason; has taken all the degrees, including the Knights Templar and Scottish Rite to the thirty-second, and is a member of DeMolai CammanderNo. 5, Knights Templar. He is also one of the Chi Psi fraternity, a University secret society. Now, at the summit of middle age in life, Mr. Fox is an active, energetic, ambitious and public spirited citizen, who has been successful in business, and has a fair and hopeful prospect; enjoying the confidence and respect of all who know him. Smith W. Osterhout was a native of Schoolcraft, Mich., where he was born September 30, I85I, the only son of Peter Osterhout, now of this city. He came to 41 Grand Rapids in 1872, and soon after, in ~partnership with Willard Barnhart, engaged in the manufacture of pine lumber and shingles; next with E. Crofton Fox establishing the Osterhout & Fox Lumber Company, in 1874, which has since carried on a large business, and of which he was President. He was one of the Directors of the Old National Bank at its organization and till his death. He was also connected with the Pascagoula Lumber Company; the Santa Barbara Water Company and Pasadena Improvement Company in.California, where he passed several winters; with the Bissell Carpet Sweeper Company, and some others. He died December 2, I888. He had accumulated a handsome property; and was an unassuming, upright and highly respected citizen. AMASA BROWN WATSON, more familiarly known in the later years of his life as Major A. B. Watson, was born at Worcester, Washington county, Vermont, February 27, 1826. His parents were Oliver and Esther (Brown) Watson. He received an academic education, and as a boy exhibited the traits of character wl'ich most distinguished him in his manhood. At an early age he left home to make his own way in the world; having as his chief capital good health, correct and steady habits, courage and ambition-qualities that won him steadfast friends. Going to Glens Falls. New York, he entered active work and developed a taste for the lumber business. He left there at the age of 27 ard came to Newaygo, Michigan, in June, 18'3, as a pioneer of the old Newaygo Lum'- Company, representing Eastern capital, which was invested in pine land and a saw mill. In his business on the Muskegon River he met with good success, and there by judicious investments laid well the foundation for a comfortable fortune. On the breaking out of the War of the Rebellion his patriotism was stirred into action; he took part in raising volunteers for the Eighth Michigan Infantry, and was commissioned Major of that regiment August i9, i86I, which he accompanied to the field, and was assigned with his command to General T. W. Sherman's expedition to Port Royal, South Carolina. There he was wounded in actionshot through the thigh, at Coosaw River Ferry, January i, 1862. He was reported 434 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. killed, but recovered, and was afterward in the battle at James Island, June I6, 1862, where his horse was killed under him by a shot through the neck, but the Major in falling received no serious injury. Major Watson resigned September io, 1862, and was honorably discharged from service. Afterward he again became interested in the lumber manufacturing business, in a saw mill at Muskegon, residing a part of the time in Chicago, and taking charge of the lumber shipments from his mill and attending to the sales. He was at the Palmer House during the great fire, but escaped with small loss. Major Watson came to Grand Rapids to reside November I4, I873; but during all his residence in Michigan had been well known here, especially in business circles, and often visited this place. In I88I he closed out his mill interests at Muskegon and disposed of his pine lands in Michigan; his lumbering and milling operations and business connections having proved the basis of a handsome fortune. His enterprises had been pushed on a broad scale and with rare judgment and energy. After this the Major invested largely in pine lands at the South, in Mississippi and Louisiana, and in various manufacturing and business enterprises in Grand Rapids. Here he erected the fine homestead mansion on the southeast corner of Fulton and Sheldon streets, one of the most beautiful residences in the State, of which he made a Christmas gift to his wife on the first Christmas Day spent by the family in the house. Politically, ever after the organization of that party, Major Watson was a stanch and stalwart Republican, and influential in Republican counsels. Yet he was wholly unambitious for political preferment, and would accept no nomination for public office; though regarded by men of all parties as worthy and capable to fill any representative or executive position, and often urged both for places of local and State trust. As an organizer and manager his services were in request. He was a Delegate to the Republican National Convention at Cincinnati, in June, 1876, and to that at Chicago in June, I88o, at each of which his first choice for candidate for President was James G. Blaine; also to that at Chicago in June, I888, when he supported Russell A. Alger. He was President, at the time of his death, of the Kent County Republican Club. In business life he was prominent, as an investor, worker manager and officer. He was President for some years of the Fourth National Bank, and stockholder and director therein; stockholder and director in the Kent County Savings Bank; Vice President, director and stockholder in the Grand Rapids Street Railway Company; director and stockholder in the Chicago, Kalamazoo and Saginaw Railroad Company; President, director and stockholder in the Grand Rapids Brush Company; stockholder and director in two of the large furniture factories; stockholder, director and Treasurer in the Grand Rapids Fire Insurance Company, and stockholder and director in the Grand Rapids Electric Light and Power Company; besides his connection with many other business and private interests. He was also, when that movement was in progress, Chairman and Trustee of the Committee to secure a site for the Soldiers' Home. These things testify to the confidence placed in his sagacity and integrity. Major Watson, December 30, I886, became a Companion of the First Class of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion, Michigan Commandery. He never belonged to any other society. He was also President of the Peninsular Club, one year. Amasa B. Watson married, at Newaygo, Michigan, October 7, 1856, Martha A., daughter of John A. and Lucina (Parsons) Brooks of Newaygo, the Rev. Courtney Smith of Grand Rapids officiating. They had no children. August ii, 1873, Mrs. Watson's youngest sister, Mrs. William J. Mead, died, leaving four childrenJohn A. Brooks Mead, James Andrew Mead, Julia Agnes Mead and Willie Watson Mead-the oldest six years and the youngest five days old. Their father died less than three months after, and these children were adopted by Major and Mrs. Watson, by whom they were greatly loved. In a letter to his sister, written a short time before his death, the Major said of them: "They are all model children, that a king might be proud of." John A. B. Mead graduated at the Michigan Military Academy at Orchard Lake in 1884, at the age of 17 years, taking the highest honors in a class of eleven. James A. Mead entered the Massachusetts Institute of Technology at Boston in I886, for an engineering course, and was admitted without condition. Julia A. Mead finished a course of study at the Misses Masters' < L-V / ^ /7?L IC L. r I AMASA BROWN WATSON-DAVID MARCELLUS BENJAMIN. 435 School for Young Ladies, at Dobbs Ferry on the Hudson, N.Y., at the age of 17 years. Willie W. Mead was about to enter the Michigan Military Academy at Orchard Lake at the time of his uncle's death. All the boys had been honorable students at Professor Swensberg's Grand Rapids Business College. These children were all at home when their uncle died, and mourned for him as for a father whom they dearly loved. Major A. B. Watson died suddenly, September i8, i888, at the age of 62 years. He left home apparently in his usual health and excellent spirits for a business trip to Northern Wisconsin. Entering a sleeping car of the night train at the Union Depot in this city, he walked down the aisle to the center, stood for a moment leaning against the berth, was seen to be falling and was caught by a passenger-two short gasps, and all was over; he was beyond the reach of human assistance. Heart failure was supposed to be the immediate cause. His funeral on the following Sunday, September 23, at three o'clock, in charge of the Loyal Legion, called together a very large concourse of sorrowing citizens, many prominent people attending from Detroit, Kalamazoo, Muskegon, Chicago and other points abroad, to pay tearful tribute to his memory; special trains coming from the first three cities named; the Detroit train, composed of General R. A. Alger's and General Manager J. B. Mulliken's private cars, bearing the members of the Loyal Legion. The services were conducted by the Rev. Charles Fluhrer, pastor of the Universalist Church, and the Rev. Campbell Fair of St. Mark's Episcopal Church. Than Major Watson, few in any community, when called from earth, are more generally and sincerely missed and mourned. Resolutions of condolence were sent the bereaved widow and family, eulogistic of the life and character of the deceased, and expressions of their esteem and their sorrow, by the various associations with which he had been connected -all testifying to his worth as a man and a citizen; to his energy, fidelity, highmindedness, uprightness, benevolence, and particularly his charity to the deserving poor. None came nearer to the hearts nor more strongly enlisted the gratitude of the latter class than he. Scores of worthy and unfortunate ones received aid direct from his hand in time of need; in many cases not knowing who was their kind benefactor and helper. His acts of quiet and well-directed charity were unnumbered. In the hearts of those who knew him Major Watson has left a memory fragrant with the sweetness of well doing. His life work is a eulogy; what more or better could be added? Amasa B. Watson Post, G. A. R., and the Amasa B. Watson Woman's Relief Corps in this city are thus named in memory of him. In person Major Watson was tall and commanding; strongly built and symmetrical in figure; erect and stately in bearing; with an open, manly countenance, genial and frank and smiling; of fair complexion, with bright, friendly, gray-blue eyes, and a cordial hand, that irresistibly won and retained warm and steadfast friendships. DAVID MARCELLUS BENJAMIN.There is one species of ancestral pride that rests upon a foundation as enduring as the love of liberty in the heart of a true American. No titleof nobilitycan raise a citizen of the great Republic to the honor conferred upon such as can trace their lineage back to acti\ve participants in that great and ever memorable struggle for self-government, the war for American Independence. The heritage which consists in examples of lofty patriotism may well inspire every motive to excellence, to great exertion, and superior worth. The subject of this memoir, David Marccllus Benjamin, was born July 28, 1834, in Livermore, Maine, on what for nearly a century has been known -as the "Benjamin farm." His family is one of the most ancient in our country, tracing its ancestry back for eight generations to John Benjamin, who came to America on the ship "Lion," September r6, i632. His grandfather, Samuel Benjamin, was born at Watertown, in the Province of Massachusetts Bay, February 5, 1753. He was First Sergeant in the Militia Company of Capt. Daniel Whiting at the battle of Lexington. He was also at the battles of Bunker Hill, Monmouth and Yorktown, and many others in the Revolution, of lesser note. At Yorktown he was Acting Adjutant to Col. Scammel's regiment. He was commissioned Ensign by John Hancock, President of the Continental Congress. He was made a Lieutenant October 7, I777. Official documents show that his entire service in the War of the Revolution covered a period of 436 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. seven years, three months and twenty-one days, without leaving said service even so much as one day. Lieut. Benjamin purchased the lands in Livermore, Maine, comprising the "Benjamin farm," and occupied them till his death on the I4th of April, 1824. He left ten children, of whom Martha, born October 4, 1792, married Israel Washburn, of Massachusetts, March 30, 1812. David, the father of the subject of this memoir, was born in Livermore, June 3, I794. In 1820 he married Catherine Chase Stanwood, who was born in Brunswick, Maine, in May, i800. Her mother was a descendant of Aquilla Chase, as was the late Chief Justice Salmon P. Chase. She died on the "Benjamin farm" in May, 1882, being soon followed by her husband, who died on the same farm in October, 1883, after having occupied it for eightyfour years. They had five children. David M., the subject of this sketch, received his education in his native State; first attending, as was then the custom, the summer and winter district school near the homestead, later a private school in the vicinity, afterward a few terms in the Farmington Academy, followed by a few terms in the Westbrook Academy, finally completing his education at the Litchfield Academy. He resided with his father on the farm till 1859, when he left the paternal roof, going into a lumber camp on a tributary of the Penobscot River, during the winter of I859-60; providing for his necessities so far as his compensation of $i I per month would permit; but the experience and practical knowledge acquired there, and in a higher grade of service in the winters of 1861-62, laid broad and deep a foundation for a princely recompense in after years. In 1862, with a capital composed largely of energy, experience, and practical sense, he left his native State for Michigan, reaching Muskegon in October of that year. Soon after, he entered into a partnership to do a lumber business with 0. P. Pillsbury and Daniel W. Bradley, constituting the firm of O. P. Pillsbury & Co., which firm is still (1889) in active business under the same name, the only change being the death of Daniel W. Bradley, who was succeeded in the firm by his three sons, William H., Edward and James W. On the I6th of June, I869, Mr. Benjamin married Anna Louise Fitts, of Portsmouth, N. H. They have two children a son, Fred. Washburn; a daughter, Catherine Chase. Soon after marriage, he removed to Big Rapids, Mich., where he remained until November, I870, when he removed to Grand Rapids, residing here until November, 1887; then, to be in proximity to his large lumbering business, he moved to Milwaukee, Wis., where he now resides, and where he is building for his occupancy one of the most elegant of modern homes. It will be a fitting monument to the success that has crowned an active business life, guided by the hard earned experience acquired in the days of small beginnings in his native Pine Tree State. The indomitable energy that moves so many of the sons of New England to successful results in laudable pursuits, is most fully personified in the business career of Mr. Benjamin. In personal appearance Mr. Benjamin is commanding. Physically, he is a robust and powerful man, being six feet in height and weighing two hundred and eighty-five pounds. In bearing he is dignified, but, as his face indicates, genial and companionable. In conversation, he is fluent and interesting. Sound common sense, with ability to express it, are qualities quickly discerned to be his, by his associates. As a citizen, he has regard for the public weal. In his relations with his fellow-men, he is honorable and just. He admires active, intelligent, honest men, who have the courage of their convictions. Politically, his father was a Whig of the Clay and Webster school; he grew up under that training, and ever regarded them as the ideal statesmen of their time, yet he is a well-informed, outspoken, uncompromising Democrat. In no sense a politician, he has no desire for political preferment; but few men devoted to the requirements of a large business as he is, feel the interest he manifests in the politics of his country. In this respect his example is most commendable, because, being intelligent, and based upon principle, it is honest and unselfish. At the present time, living statesmen for whom he has high regard are few, but Grover Cleveland stands foremost. He is broad enough to see much to admire in the public life of men with whom he differed politically. He admires many of the qualities exhibited by Abraham Lincoln, Peter Cooper, Wendell Phillips, Charles Sumner, William Pitt Fessenden, and his cousin Elihu Benjamin 1 Co DAVID MARCELLUS BENJAMIN-DANIEL McCOY. Washburn. In theology, he recognizes no creed. He is not a member of any church, but is identified with the Unitarians, and is represented by the teachings of William Ellery Channing and Theodore Parker. Mr. Benjamin is an excellent type of a transplanted, thrifty, growing New Englander of expansive mind, who justly merits his ancestry, who is an honor to the State of his nativity, and to the States of his adoption. Among local operators in lumber manufacture and pine land dealings, is Daniel McCoy, who has been among the prominent and public spirited residents of this city for some seven years past. DANIEL McCOY, lumber manufacturer and dealer, was born July 17, 1845, in Philadelphia, and was educated in the public schools of that city. In 1867 he came to Michigan. October I9, I869, at Romeo, Michigan, he married Gail L. Ayer, daughter of Alvan B. Ayer of that place. He commenced lumbering on the south branch of the Manistee River, the firm being composed of James A. Remick of Detroit, John G. Riggs of Saginaw, and himself. The logs were floated down the river to Manistee, and there cut into lumber. In 1873 Mr. McCoy went to Clam Lake where he began lumbering operations with Charles M. Ayer, under the firm name of McCoy & Ayer, remaining in that partnership until 1883, when the firm dissolved and Mr. McCoy continued in the business alone. In April 1883 he removed his headquarters to Grand Rapids and has since resided in this city. He is now (1890) operating saw mills, planing mills and a narrow gauge logging railway in Lake county; also a farm near the city, out toward Reed's Lake. He has been connected with the Grand Rapids Edison Light and Fuel Gas Company since the organization of that corporation, and its President continuously. He was President of Clam Lake Village, when living there; and after its incorporation as the city of Cadillac, he was elected its Mayor for three successive terms. He was also Chairman of the Wexford County Republican Committee, and since his removal to this city has been the presiding officer of the Kent County Republican Committee. Mr. McCoy, now at middlemanhood, is a representative, go-ahead, energetic, progressive citizen; one of the class who give vigor and strength to a place like Grand Rapids. CHAPTER XL. FOUNDRIES AND MACHINE SHOPS-IRON, BRASS AND OTHER METAL WORKS. THE iron foundry business started almost simultaneously in Grandville and Grand Rapids. Winfield Scott Levake, in T837, built a small furnace and foundry at the corner of Bridge and Mill streets, which he operated. for a few years, when he abandoned it, and the building was burned or converted to other uses. His establishment was operated by horse power. At that time the demand for iron casting was light, and the trade small. George Ketchum and James McCray came to Grandville in 1838, formed a partnership, and built a foundry and machine shop there, of which a few years later Mr. McCray removed the tools and appliances to Grand Rapids. The second foundry here was planted on the bank of the canal near the " big mill," by Henry Stone and his son Henry G. Stone, in 1842, and made ready for business while James McCray was moving his plant up from Grandville and building the furnace and shops at the foot of the Canal. After Mr. Stone had his foundry bed leveled a river freshet overflowed it to the depth of several feet, and so damaged it that a good portion of the work had to be done over again. Henty Stone, who came in 1837, was the first plow maker here. Gaius S. Deane came down from Lyons in 1843, and became a partner in the establishment under the name of Stone, Deane & Co (Henry G. Stone, Gaius S. Deane and Elihu Smith). This partnership was dissolved in May, I853, but all of these men were in business as iron machinists and plow manufacturers in that vicinity for many years after. Luman R. Atwater was connected with it for a time about i858. Deane continued in it until his death in 1883. For years they had a salesroom on Canal street. Prominent among machinists about 1844 and for a dozen years, was William B. Hill, an expert in the making and setting up of steam engines. The first engine made here, for the steamboat Empire, was constructed at the shop of Henry G. Stone & Co., in the spring of I845. It was of seventy-five horse power; William B. Hill, draftsman, Andrew Ferguson, patternmaker, Horace Wilder, molder. Hill was a student of the scientific construction of intricate machinery, and an inventor of considerable note. Hill's Patent Governor, for steam engines, came into general use. Gilbert M. McCray, Stewart B. McCray, and H. Gaylord built a foundry and machine shop about I855 on Waterloo street, below the Eagle Hotel. This firm of McCray Brothers & Company, and the firm of Daniel Ball & Son about that time did some of the first casting of iron pillars and other iron work for store fronts. Gilbert Marshall McCray was born at Skaneateles, N. Y., May 13, 1826; at twelve years of age came with his parents to Grandville, Mich., and in 1843 came to Grand Rapids. He was bred to the trade of machinist, in which he became an expert and a master workman. After operating the shops mentioned on Waterloo street, a few years, he was during most of the time for nearly thirty years foreman in the Grand Rapids Iron Works. In 1858 he was Mayor of Grand Rapids. Elihu Smith, in i856, had a machine shop driven by steam power on the east side of Canal street, opposite the dam, and by it in that year Samuel Tower erected a foundry and shop. Five foundries were then in operation in this city. In the foundry and machine business a large amount of capital is invested here; it has become a principal and important factor in our industrial interests, and is prob FOUNDRIES AND MACHINE WORKS. 439 ably the heaviest in its line in any interior town of the State. GRAND RAPIDS IRON WORKS. Except the very small shop built in 1837 by Mr. Levake at the junction of Bridge and Mill streets, the first iron furnace, foundry and machine shop on Grand River was built at Grandville by George Ketchum and James McCray in 1838. Horace Wilder for these did the first molding and casting. Their partnership in the business ended January I, 1843, and their affairs were settled by Mr. McCray, who then moved to Grand Rapids, and began the erection of new works for similar business at the foot of the canal basin, on Huron street. Here he was joined by Daniel Ball, forming the firm of James McCray & Co., which on August i, 1845, announced the "Grand Rapids Iron Works" finished and ready for the manufacture of "every variety of castings for flouring, grist, saw and other mills, at short notice and on the most reasonable terms." Mr. McCray managed the work till his death in i85i, after which it was conducted for a short time by his sons, Gilbert M. and Stewart B. McCray. About that time Mr. Ball purchased the establishment, formed a partnership with Charles P. Babcock, and it was operated by Ball & Babcock till March, I855, when Babcock retired and was succeeded by Byron D. Ball, the new firm name being Daniel Ball & Son. In 1854 it gave employment to twenty-five men, and in the same year constructed its first sawmill engine. June 5, i856, a special partnership was formed, in which the senior Ball became a silent partner, and Byron D. Ball proprietor and manager. This arrangement lasted until December 15, when Richard E. Butterworth purchased an interest, and the firm was known as Ball & Butterworth, William S. Gunn being also a partner for a time. In October, 1858, Mr. Butterworth bought out the other proprietors, and as sole owner conducted the business till I869, when James Lowe, from Ashton-under-Lyne, England, came into the establishment, and the firm of Butterworth & Lowe was formed. Mr. Butterworth died in 1887, but the firm name was continued, in the proprietorship of James and Mrs. Eliza E. Lowe. Through such mutations has grown the establishment known as the Grand Rapids Iron Works on the spot where James McCray put its foundation nearly half a century ago-now among the largest and oldest foundries and machine shops in the State. The working plant and buildings cover about an acre of ground. The foundry and shops, and rooms in Mineral Block, afford working room in which some fifty men are kept busy the year round. The invested capital is $I o, ooo, and the annual product of about $80,ooo comprises all sorts of heavy castings, engines, general machinery and logging cars. Under the name of Butterworth & Lowe this firm has become an incorporated stock company, of which the members are James Lowe, Eliza E. Lowe, Edward Lowe and Rowland Lowe. The musical brass bell which rings the opening and closing hours for work, on this iron factory, is the same one that in 1838 called the men of the Port Sheldon Company to dinner, at the great hotel that was built and soon abandoned at Pigeon Lake, a few miles south of Grand Haven, by the shore of Lake Michigan. VALLEY CITY IRON WORKS. The Valley City Iron Works were started in 1862 by Adolph Leitelt, in a small building, giving employment to only six men, and using only about 6,000 square feet of working room. The business has grown until at the present time the plant covers 45,930 square feet, and gives employment to ioo men, and at times to as many as I40. The monthly pay roll averages about $5, ooo, while the output of steam engines, boilers and all classes of machinery and building castings, amounting to upward of $I50,000 annually, goes to all parts of the West and Northwest. For a number of years the principal product was steam engines, but in I868 Mr. Leitelt opened a boiler shop, the first of much size started in the city, and since then has added to his products until all classes of engine work and steam heating apparatus, boilers and building and machinery castings are sent out from this factory. A comparatively new branch of the business is the manufacture of veneer cutting machinery. The works are partly on Erie street, the original site, and partly across the canal by the river. WEST SIDE IRON WORKS. Joseph Jackoboice began iron work in 440 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS I860, in a small room on the second floor of a sash, door and blind factory on Mill street. In 1862 he moved into a building near the east end of Bridge street bridge. In I865 he purchased a lot on the present site of the Clarendon Hotel, where he put up a building which he occupied about two years, when he removed to South Front street, near the end of Pearl street bridge. From there, in I880, he moved to his present quarters, erecting a two story building on the corner of South Front and Bowery streets, and opened the West Side Iron Works. The capital invested by Mr. Jackoboice is $io,ooo, and gives employment to half a dozen men, with a monthly pay roll of about $300. The annual output of $Io,ooo or more consists mainly of mill work and wood working machinery, his specialties being Jackoboice's band saws and fire escapes. CENTRAL BOILER WORKS. These were.starred in March, I884, by Henry Brobst, John Himes and Peter Petersen, under the firm name of John Himes & Co. In i888 Mr. Brobst bought out Mr. Petersen, and the style changed to Brobst & Himes. In their shop by the foot of Huron street some fifteen men find employment in making marine, tubular an~d upright boilers. The capital employed is $25,o00, and the annual output about $50,ooo. MICHIGAN IRON WORKS. The Michigan Iron Works have been prominent among foundry and machine shops since they were started by Williams & Smith in I87I, on the southeast corner of Pearl and Campau streets. In 1872 C. W. Watkins was added to the firm. In 1873 they erected the building now used, and James G. McElwee was taken into partnership. The business was carried on at a loss for a short time, and the plant was purchased by Crawford Brothers, who sold out in 1874 to H. D. Wallen, Jr. From this till 1882 there was no change. A stock company was then organized, known as the Michigan Iron Works Light and Power Company, capital $ioo,ooo, with George W. Cass President, H. D. Wallen, Jr., Vice President and General Manager, W. R. Shelby Secretary and Treasurer. In January, i885, W. T. Powers & Son, the present proprietors, purchased the business. The manufacture consists of engines, heavy castings and mill machinery, and amounts to about $80,ooo a year. They make a specialty of veneer cutting machines, which are sent to all parts of the country. The capital invested is $65,ooo. They have 21,ooo square feet of shop space, on which fifty or more men work for an aggregate average of about $2,400 monthly. WILLIAM T. POWERS, manufacturer and capitalist, was born at Bristol, N. H., July 8, 1820. His parents, Jonathan and Anna Powers, were natives of the same place. In I826 the family removed to Lansingburgh, N. Y., where he received a common school education, and after he was eighteen years of age learned the trade of cabinet maker. He early showed aptness and skill at machine work, a faculty which ever after proved useful and profitable to him. In June, I847, Mr. Powers and his family, then consisting of his wife and one child, came to Grand Rapids. His chief business capital at the time was a good trade, about $300 in cash, a pair of willing hands and a spirit of energy and determination. Here he began work in a small shop at the southeast corner of Fountain and Ionia streets, where he rented bench room. Soon afterward he secured better quarters by the east bank of the river above Bridge street and began working by machinery, using water power; making furniture of nearly all kinds then produced, and chairs, not only for the home trade, but for exportation, and having a salesroom near the foot of Canal street. About I85I he formed a partnership with Ebenezer M. Ball, under the firm name of Powers & Ball, in the furniture trade, their business place being near where is the' south entrance to the Arcade. In 1852 they built a sawmill to which they added a larger structure for a factory, on Erie street, where the business grew rapidly; soon giving work to some forty employes, and establishing an export trade in ready made stock for chairs, furniture and reapers. In January, I855, this partnership was dissolved and Mr. Powers turned his attention to lumbering, operating a steam mill with a circular saw, the first of its kind in this part of the State, which the firm had built above Leonard street on the west bank of the river. About the same time he constructed a machine with a gang :i. -3 rC; ~:::, -i:::i':i:;~h::::::;ril.S- t:::;::.,::::1':::, I:~ 1::.,::ii::r.iiiii':-~-~;: " ~i: ~;~.. -:i: i- i.j-I:.iii i 1::1: —: ii:::"' ~~~;1;":;-'"' :::iijii~'~rr?~ -~-~:.~l:i.:::::::::,:i:i::: i;; ,; '": ~jl~,- *5::,... \ S::~~~:.i liul `~:~ tL.:: A.1 WILLIAM T. POWERS-WILLIAM H. POWERS. 441 of circular saws for slitting thick plank into siding and flooring. Again he added furniture making to his business, and for a time before the civil war had an extensive salesroom on Canal street, near Erie. In 1865 and i866 he purchased the river frontage necessary and in the three following years constructed the West Side Water Power Canal, a description of which is given in this book. As a builder since he came to Grand Rapids, Mr. Powers has erected some thirty or more structures for houses, mills, stores, factories and other purposes. Most prominent among these is Powers' Grand Opera House. Notable in his work, also, is the Arcade artesian well, where so many thousands daily partake of its refreshing waters, free —a public benefaction. In i880 he caused the organizing of an electric lighting plant and company in this city, the first city lighting by electricity in the State. The works are operated chiefly by water power. William T. Powers & Son in i885 purchased and have since operated the Michigan Iron Works at the foot of Louis street. Indomitable and persistent industry and energy have marked the career of Mr. Powers in Grand Rapids; and besides his successful enterprises at home he has been actively and prosperously engaged in the development of valuable properties in and near Spearfish, Lawrence county, Dakota-the Black Hills region-where he has a water power of some 300 to 400 horse power, some manufacturing buildings, and about 400 acres of land. He has always exhibited great interest in the material growth and advancement of Grand Rapids. He was chosen City Treasurer in I853 and again in i854, serving two terms. In 1857 he was elected Mayor and served one term, during which he started and gave a lasting impetus to the system of street improvements that has been so prominent a factor in city development and progress. Similarly he has stimulated municipal growth by his service in the Board of Public Works from 1873 to 1878, where he was prominent in the establishment of the water works system. As a politician he has never sought office, but has been a steady and active adherent of the Democratic party. As a man, an influential citizen and a neighbor, he is held in universal esteem. From a modest beginning, he has built himself a fine estate and secured a handsome compe42 tence, in the accumulation of which he has exhibited rare forecast and sound judgment. He is yet vigorous and in active business. Mr. Powers married, in 1839, at Troy, N. Y., Louisa Hall, a native of London, England. Of six children born to them, four are living-William H., Sara A., Mary L. and Charles B. Powers. WILLIAM H. POWERS is the eldest son of the Hon. Wm. T. Powers, and was born in the City of Troy, New York, April 7, I84I. He came to Grand Rapids with his parents in the month of June, 1847, where he has resided ever since. He received a common school education, and at the age of i8 entered the employ of his father as clerk and bookkeeper, in which position he continued until 1863, when his father closed out his furniture business. In the spring of 1862 he was elected City Clerk, in which position he served one year; his office where the city business was transacted being with that of his father. At the conclusion of his term of office he, in company with D. H. Waters, secured from the city the contract for grading, graveling and paving the gutters of Lyon street from Canal street east to Union street; and subsequently they also secured the contract for grading Kent street from Lyon to Bronson, and Ionia from Lyon to Hastings. At that time this was the heaviest grading contract ever let by the city. These contracts afforded a fair profit, and this was the business starter for Mr. Powers. From this he went into manufacturing, having rented from his father the old furniture factory with its machinery on Erie street, where the office and steam fitting shop of A. Leitelt now are. Here he did a small amount of business at job work, turning, planing and sawing, employing two or three men, running the machines principally himself, wood turning and scroll sawing being his forte. After operating in this way for some time with but fair profit, he put in shingle machinery and operated one winter on contract for Powers & White, cutting out bolts which were run down from Rouge River and pulled out at the head of the rapids. In i866, in company with E. M. Ball, he purchased the interest of the Geo. Whittemore estate, and subsequently the remaining interest of his father, in the steam saw mill on the west side of the river at the head 442 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. of the rapids, and they commenced manufacturing lumber, continuing the business with reasonable profit until i868, when they sold their mill to A. B. Long& Sons. They then invested their means in a water power site on the then new West Side canal, upon which they erected a planing mill and sash and door factory, where the Powers & Walker Casket Company's works are now situated. Mr. Powers is the principal stockholder and President of the Powers & Walker Casket Company, whose business was founded in 1875, and which is now classed among the largest manufacturing concerns in the Valley City. In 1885 Mr. Powers, in company with his father, purchased the plant known as the Michigan Iron Works, at the foot of Louis street, and he at once assumed the management of the machine shop and foundry comprising this plant, giving the business his personal attention, and operating it with marked success to the present time. Mr. Powers has been, and is still, interested in many other manufacturing enterprises, and has filled many positions of trust of both business and public nature, among which are: President of the Powers & Walker Casket Company, President of the Wolverine Chair & Furniture Co., Secretary of the Grand Rapids Brush Co., Secretary and Treasurer of the Rouge & Grand River Log Running Co. (which position he held for sixteen years), Secretary and Treasurer of the Grand Rapids Electric Light & Power Co. (which position he has held since the first organization of the company in i880), President of the Martins' Middlings Purifier Co., and for ten years Manager of Powers' Grand Opera House. Among the public positions which he has filled are those of City Clerk, Alderman, Member of the State Legislature, Member of the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners, at the present time serving his second term as President of this Board, and now just completing his second term as member of the Board, to which position he was first appointed in I88I, being one of the original members named in the Act of the Legislature creating the Board. He is also an active member of the Board of Trade, being one of its Directors ever since its organization. He was one of the Charter Members of Mystic Lodge of the Knights of Honor, and has filled all the chairs in that order, to that of Grand Dictator. Mr. Powers married, February 8, I865, Sarah L. Bradford, daughter of Durfee T. and Hannah M. Bradford, of Walker Township. They have had seven children, of whom they have buried three. The four now living are Frederick W., Frank C., Carrie L. and Gertrude B. Powers. The record of the Hon. William IH. Powers is that of a busy life, marked by energy, industry, enterprise, sagacity, integrity and thrift. His work and the positions accorded him show, better than mere words could, his standing as a man and citizen, and the place he has won in the public esteem. In the zenith of middle manhood he is yet at work, with apparently no abatement of vigor. PHCENIX IRON WORKS. Frederick Hartmann started at 69 South Front streetin 1872, in a small way, ajobbing foundry, doing general work, employing four men, in a room only 40 by 50 feet. In 1879 he added a small machine shop, and took Louis Dietz into partnership in the latter, under the firm name of Hartmann & Dietz, the foundry being still that of F. Hartmann. In December, 1884, the foundry was turned over to the management of Henry J. Hartmann. In July, i886, the partnership between Hartmann & Dietz was dissolved, and the firm of F. Hartmann & Company organized, with Frederick Hartmann, H. J. Hartmann and Edward Tannewitz as members. In June, i888, they moved to 270 South Front street, where (in I888) the Phcenix Iron Works are doing a business of about $i7,000 annually, giving employment to twenty-four men. FOX MACHINE COMPANY. In i885 William R. Fox started the Fox Machine Company, on Canal street, near Hastings. In June, 1887, he removed to Erie street and in October, I888, to a two story brick building on Front street. He makes several kinds of special machinery, having one of the finest establishments for its size in the country. In 1879 he patented a trimmer to take the place of saw and block plane in short cuts, and shortly afterward a combination dado or grooving saw head, which two articles comprise his principal products, and are sent to all parts of the United States. FOUNDRIES AND MACHINE SHOPS. 443 SHINGLE MACHINES. In the winter of 1873-74, in a small room, the shingle machine manufacture of Harford J. and Willis J. Perkins was begun. Starting with one small patent, they now have and control nearly fifty. Two years after beginning they doubled their room, and in 1880 moved to the old stone wagon factory building on North Front street, doubling its size in I882 and again in i888, until they have nearly forty thousand square feet of working space (against one thousand in 1874), and (in I888) give employment to about ioo men. Perkins & Company make a large share (they think half) of the most improved shingle machines in the United States. The works are at 60 to I20 North Front street. GRAND RAPIDS BOILER WORKS. Daniel Sullivan, the proprietor of the Grand Rapids Boiler Works, started in 1873 on the east side, at the foot of Huron street. In the same year he purchased land on the west side, at 35 South Front street, on which in i880 he built his works. With a capital of $25,000, he keeps some ten men at work, turning out about $20,000 worth of heavy boilers yearly. SHINGLE MILL MACHINERY. The establishment of James C. and Frank Simonds, 53 and 55 North Waterloo street, was founded by the former in i856, since which it has done a steady and fairly remunerative business in the manufacture of various kinds of mill works and shingle mill machinery. In April, 1887, the firm name was changed to J. C. Simonds & Son, and the works were enlarged. With a capital of $25,000 they give employment to nine men, and send their products to most of the shingle producing States of the country. BUSS MACHINE WORKS. Charles Buss, the founder of the Buss Machine Shops, was an early inventor. It is stated that while learning his trade he invented the revolver or six-barreled pistol, from which Colt took the idea and obtained the first patent, Buss not feeling able to patent his invention at the time. The Buss Machine Works have yet the old revolver which he afterward patented. Early in life he developed great mechanical ingenuity, making a complete steam engine that a thimble would cover. After acquiring his trade, the J. E. Fay Company of Cincinnati, manufacturers of wood-working machinery, employed him to help develop some of their machines. In 1848 he established at Marlboro, N. H., a machine shop which was the foundation of the present business of the Buss Works, and in 1867 George F., the eldest son, became a partner, and they began the improvement of planers, making the first panel planers for fine work, which took a first prize in Massachusetts in I869. In 1878 they removed to Grand Rapids and established the present works at 36 and 38 Mill street, opposite Hastings; the firm then comprising Charles Buss and his four sons, George F. Buss, Henry C. Buss, Edward P. Buss and Wendell R. Buss. Here they began further improvements in woodworking machinery, and made a specialty of machines adapted to the manufacture of furniture, organs, pianos and fine cabinet wares; and with such success that they have constructed machines for 400 or more factories in the United States. Their improved special furniture planer, the first of its kind; carving machine for free-hand carving, and patent carving machine; the patent dado machine of George F. Buss, and the glue jointer, have met with phenomenal favor. George F. Buss, who has been at the head of the firm since their location here, is a native of New Hampshire, who learned his trade thoroughly, in all its details, and at seventeen years of age was able to command high wages as a skilled mechanic. The Buss Machine firm has grown to be known in every large city and town in the United States. The buildings are of brick, 48 by ioo feet, three floors, and 35 by Ioo feet, one floor; pattern room, 48 feet square. Capital invested, $80,ooo; annual output about $86,ooo; men employed, 55, with a monthly pay roll of about $3,000. George F. Buss is president and treasurer (I889), with Wendell R. Buss as manager and superintendent. BLACKSMITHING. No town or village is properly equipped without its quota of one or more blacksmiths, and in cities these useful artisans form no inconsiderable part of the mechanical workers. Grand Rapids had its blacksmiths 444 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. before the growth of the white settlement began. There were two white blacksmiths at the Indian Mission, and an Indian learned the trade there. Louis Campau had a blacksmith at his trading post when the settlers came in I833-Antoine Carmell. This 'man worked in a log shop between Canal street and the river, where Huron street now is, and did more or less of repairing wagons, sharpening ploughshares, setting of horseshoes, and similar work for the pioneer farmers. A. D. W. Stout opened a blacksmith shop near the foot of Pearl street in I834. Others soon came, among them, in I836, H. R. Osborn, on Kent street; John Westcott, about 1838, and in I840 John Rice, who did the blacksmithing for Lucius Lyon, while the latter was sinking his salt well. About that time a little log blacksmith shop was built on Ionia street, between Monroe and Fountain, where a forge was kept busy for some fifteen years. Nehemiah and Charles W. Hathaway, William N. and Josiah M. Cook, and two or three more were here in I843-44. Soon after, David C. Porter, Alson Adams, P. R. Jarvis, Joseph Emmer, Joab Jones, and others contributed to swell the ranks of the craft, and now these hardy, ingenious and toilsome "Sons of Vulcan" may be found in every convenient locality for the prosecution of their trade. Nehemiah Hathaway set up the first triphammer, in the spring of 1844, at his shop by the canal basin, in McCray's foundry and machine works. TIN AND SHEET IRON WARE. The tin and sheet iron divisions of the hardware trade and manufacture have their root in the shop of the skilled mechanic, the tinsmith; the man who fashions from the raw materials the articles which are placed dn sale. Most especially have the workers in tin and iron a prominent part in the building up of the mechanical industries of this city. Like the other sources of our abundant prosperity, this art has grown with our growth, and strengthened with our strength. No sooner was the village fairly started than, with a new field for his labor, the tinner made his appearance. Wilder D. Foster came in 1838, and worked for a time at the tinner's trade for E. G. Squier, and then entered into partnership with him, opening a small shop in a building owned by George M. Mills, on the north side of Pearl street at the foot of Monroe, where they advertised to "make to order on short notice tin and sheet iron ware, stovepipe, tin conductor pipes and eavetroughs." In February, 1841, this partnership was dissolved, and Foster continued the business in the employ, or as a lessee, of Mills. In 1845 came Thomas W. Parry, also a tinsmith by trade, and entered into partnership with Foster, the firm name being Foster & Parry. They worked together about nine years. In November, 1848, they removed from the Mills site to the west elbow near the foot of Monroe street, below Irving Hall, their building facing up Monroe street. This was, in part, where now stands the extensive hardware store of Foster, Stevens & Company. January I, I855, Mr. Parry retired from the firm, and was succeeded by Henry Martin. The business had grown rapidly, and in I856 Martin Metcalf was admitted to partnership, the firm name being Foster, Martin & Co. From those beginnings has grown the mammoth store and factory of Foster, Stevens & Company, whose building is one of the finest for its uses in the city. WILDER DEAYR FOSTER was prominent in the business and social life of Grand Rapids during a period of more than thirty years. In the mercantile and manufacturing line, and as a public-spirited citizen, he was among the foremost in laying broad and deep the foundations, while it was yet a village, for the thriving, pushing, progressive and populous city that is now the pride of Western Michigan. Personally and in trade he was well known and universally esteemed in all this part of the State. Wilder D. Foster was born at Monroe, Orange county, N. Y., January 8, 1821. His father, Forris D'A. Foster, was a descendent cf an early New England family, and emigrated to Orange county from Maine. It is among the family traditions that five of its members, brothers, were in the Revolutionary war; that they were minute-men at the battle of Bunker Hill, and that one of them was killed there. Forris D'A. Foster, after about 1848, spent the closing years of his life in Grand Rapids, and died here December 12, 1871, aged 87 years. The early educational privileges of the son, Wilder D. Foster, were slight; d- & BIOGRAPHY OF WILDER DEAYR FOSTER. 445 but he had a studious turn of mind and an eager thirst for knowledge, and in his schoolboy days he resorted to books to add to the stock of information obtainable at the common schools. While yet but a lad he engaged as an apprentice to learn the trade of tinsmith; but his term of service was shortened by the removal to Michigan and a change in the circumstances of his employer. With the latter he came to Marshall in this State in I837. In 1838 he came to Grand Rapids, and worked for a time as a journeyman; next went into business with E. G. Squier, in a small shop on Pearl street. This partnership was dissolved in February, 1841, and Mr. Foster continued business by himself until the fall of I845, when he entered into a copartnership with Thomas W. Parry. The firm of Foster & Parry was continued until January I, I855, at which time Mr. Parry retired. In 1848 the business was removed across Monroe street, to a building which stood facing the east, and in part on ground ever since occupied by the Foster & Company hardware store and tin and sheet iron manufacturing shops. After Mr. Parry, Mr. Foster had in succession as partners, Henry Martin and Martin Metcalf, and then for ten years as sole proprietor he conducted the fast increasing business of the establishment; in I869-70 erecting the fine brick block at i6 and i8 Monroe street, and in 1872 laying the foundation walls at Nos. o1, 12 and 14. January i, I873, was formed the firm of Foster, Stevens & Company, Wilder D. Foster taking as partners his eldest son, Frank W. Foster, and his nephew, Wilder D. Stevens, which firm name is still retained in the business and trade at the same place. Further reference to the name and fame of that hardware establishment is scarcely needed here. In it Mr. Foster spent his business life. It was prominently and favorably known all over the State, and its prestige is well sustained by his successors. As a successful merchant whose character stood for the embodiment of integrity, such confidence was reposed in him and his management that the house never suffered in credit, and it safely weathered several financial storms before which many others went down. A quiet, private life best suited Mr. Foster's taste and inclinations. But such men are needed in public affairs, and it was in accordance with the nature of things that he should be called to participate therein. In the village days he was an active member of the Grand Rapids Lyceum, and often took part in its debates. There he was storing and training his mind for other spheres of action. He was prominent in organizing and starting an efficient fire department, in which he afterward served as Chief Engineer. During nearly a quarter of a century he had an active part in the management of the public schools, which had no more earnest friend than was he. Industrious, practical, sound in judgment and principles, he was often called to official positions of trust and responsibility. Though not intensely partisan, he was an earnest Republican from the organization of that party. In earlier life he at first voted the Democratic ticket; but in each of the National elections of I844, I848 and 1852 he gave his vote for President to the Anti-Slavery candidate. As a man, a citizen and a public servant he had the undoubting confidence of all who knew him. In I851 and I852 he was elected City Treasurer. He represented his ward as Alderman in 1852. In I854 he was one of the Board of County Superintendents of the Poor. He was thrice chosen Mayor of the City —in I854, I865 and i866. In the legislative term of i855-56 he was a member of the State Senate. At a special election in 1871 he was chosen to represent his (then the Fourth) District in Congress, receiving a majority over his chief competitor of 5,481; and at the general election in 1872 was re-elected to the same position, receiving 8,609 majority, and almost twothirds of the total vote of the District. In public service Mr. Foster was always found faithful, manful, honcrable and efficient. He did the work of the people well. Both there and in private life he was a very busy man, with an energy that never flagged and which sometimes carried him beyond the support of his physical strength. He was kind and sincere and benevolent. No worthy person in need appealed to him in vain. During the war his sympathies and his generosity went constantly out to the soldiers in the field and to their families at home. Toward those about him in his business and the workers in his shops his bearing was ever that of the kind and considerate friend. He treated his employes as men, and assisted the humblest among 446 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. them as he found opportunity. He was quick to recognize the good, and slow to believe evil of any one. To an employe who had been with him nineteen years he wrote, shortly before his death: "One thing I know you cannot help thinking about, as you grow older and feebler; that is whether your place will continue to you, and I now say that you need not borrow any trouble on that point. There will always be place for you as long as the business is run by a Foster or Stevens, whether you can do as much as now, or twenty years ago, or not." In that expression shines Mr. Foster's real character. He lost much, through his accommodating spirit, but was never heard to complain, nor to censure those by whom the losses came. "With malice toward none and charity for all," he was yet steadily successful in business, to the end. January i, I849, Mr. Foster married Fanny Lovell, a sister of Judge Louis Lovell of Ionia, who survived him in life, subsequently was married to Noyes L. Avery, and died in this city May 8, i886-a lovely woman who won affection by her virtues and graces. Mr. Foster died at his home in this city September 20, I873. At his funeral was a vast concourse of citizens attesting their love for the deceased and their great grief over his departure. In the matter of religious faith he had never professed allegance to any creed; in his belief he doubtless came nearer to Universalism than any other. He was an attendant, regularly, with his family, at the Congregational Church. His religion was in his life of tnorality and purity. He was a strictly temperate man, and as such, an exemplar and teacher to all about him. His life and his work are inwrought in the materiality and growth of Grand Rapids; this record is for him both a eulogy and a monument. [See page I 6.] In August, I845, Joseph Stanford started a " copper, tin and sheet iron manufactory" at the corner of Canal street and Crescent avenue, the present site of the Grinnell Block, where he conducted a moderate business for several years. In the summer of 1846 William H. McConnell started a small tinshop in connection with a hardware store on the south side of Monroe street, two doors above Waterloo. With him, then or soon after, was his brother John McConnell, a practical workman, who continued the business there for a time, and afterward for many years on Canal street, with a fair degree of success. JOHN McCONNELL, who has been a highly esteemed citizen of Grand Rapids for some forty-three years, is a native of the old town of Newbury, Berkshire, England, where he was born September 22, 1821. His early schooling was in what was known as John Moss' Academy, at the place of his birth, and was somewhat limited, his feeble health obliging him to give up study at ten years of age. In 1833 he, with his father, William McConnell, and family came to America and settled in Rochester, N. Y. There he was employed in mercantile houses until 1842, when he moved to Mount Morris, N. Y. In 1844 he opened a store at Dansville, N. Y. In 1847 he disposed of that and came to Grand Rapids. Here he again engaged in mercantile trade, which he followed, chiefly in hardware, some twenty years, with a good degree of success. In 1850 he purchased a tract of ten acres of land next south of Wealthy avenue and west of Division street then in the woods-and built there a pretty residence, the first on that quarter section of land, in which he still lives. He has served as Alderman and Supervisor of his ward, giving faithful and efficient service in both positions. He has also served several years on the Board of Education. October 5, 1848, Mr. McConnell married Mary Escott. They are both members of the Episcopal Church. He has been a vestryman at St. Mark's a number of years; was one of the chief founders of Grace Church, and for some time a Trustee and one of the Managers of St. Mark's Home and Hospital. He has been a member of the Masonic Fraternity since 1848, advancing through all the degrees of the original American system, and was among the earliest of the Knights Templar in this State. He is recognized as a citizen of practical good sense and judgment; one who takes great interest in whatever tends to promote the general welfare and prosperity. He was one of the original stockholders and Directors in the Grand Rapids and Holland Railroad Company, afterward merged in the Chicago & West Michigan. In 1871 he retired from active business, and with a fair competence and pleasant social sur I/ z, GALVANIZED IRON WORK-EDGE TOOL MAKING. 447 roundings is enjoying happily the evening of life. Nearly every house where the hardware trade has been a specialty has carried on the tin and sheet iron business industrially, to a greater or less extent. Among those who have operated shops may be noticed: Goodrich & Gay, on Canal street, 1858; William S. Gunn, for about thirty years past (who with his sons has built up a very large trade on Monroe street, with a wholesale house on South Ionia); De Long & Scribner on West Bridge street, for a short time after the war; William P. Kutsche, for fifteen years or more, east side of Canal near Bridge street; Carpenter, Judd & Co, 1873 and for a few years near Sweet's Hotel. At later dates there have been: John Whitworth & Co., West Bridge street; Peter Dogger, toward Coldbrook on Ottawa street; Maris, De Graaf & Co., 115 Monroe; J. A. S. Verdier, Spring street; William Miller, South Ionia; Frank Leitelt and F. A. Prindle, West Bridge street; Ferdinand Scheufler, East Bridge; Joseph Berles, Canal, between Pearl and Crescent; N. B. Kromer & Son, Plainfield avenue; Rickard Brothers, South Division; Whitworth & Alden, 37 West Bridge; Barstow & Jennings, East Bridge; Melis Hardware, Grandville avenue; Blakeley & Jennison, 78 South Division, and Schmidt Brothers, 224 Fulton. Most of these employ journeymen, and a number of others are engaged in this industry. Nearly all manufacturing enterprises in this city had their beginnings in the area between Fulton and Bridge streets, within forty rods of Canal street, and tinsmithing is no exception. On the West Side it was started about thirty years ago by S. Rawson. About fifteen years ago some shops were opened near Coldbrook, and in 1876 Gerrit Meinardi gave it a start on South Division street. More recently, in 1882, the region on Bridge Street Hill, near Barclay street, became the center of a little cluster of stores and business houses, where Fred N. Jennings opened a shop, leading to the business since conducted by Barstow & Jennings, and near them Kromer & De Windt are in the manufacture and trade. Every ward in the city now has some of these indispensable workshops. GALVANIZED IRON WORK. The manufacture of galvanized iron cornice commenced here about I870. In that year it was made a branch of their business by Foster, Stevens & Company, hardware merchants, who placed Frederick Shriver and Warren C. Weatherly in charge of the work. The latter are probably entitled to the credit of originating the idea of the use of such cornices in Grand Rapids. Shortly after, the firm of Shriver, Weatherly & Company was formed, and took full control of that special branch of the trade. They succeeded well, and soon in addition to cornice work began to shape galvanized iron into a variety of forms, fanciful and convenient, for different uses in the construction of the fronts of buildings, making it ornamental as well as useful, in brackets and imitations of stone work, in various styles and designs. Later, in 1873, Sokup & Company entered this field of enterprise, the individual members of the firm being Frank J. Sokup and John Hormuth. This firm is still in existence, and working at 93 Campau street. In March, 1882, W. C. Hopson commenced the manufacture of galvanized iron work (now located at No. 9 Pearl street), and W. S. Gunn & Company also added this branch to their business. McDonald & Emmerson began the manufacture in May, I8S8, at 75 Ottawa street. The cornice on the McMullen building, corner of South Division and Island streets, is a specimen of their work. A. B. Hum & Company, Hermitage Block, and Barstow & Jennings of East Bridge street, among others, are workers in this line. It is an industry which has grown steadily and quite rapidly from its beginning to the present time, and constitutes a very important feature in the architecture of the city, turning out an annual product of not far from $I20,000. EDGE TOOL MAKING. In the early part of I85I William N. Cook and John Blain opened a shop on the bank of the river, a little south of Bridge street, east side, for the manufacture of axes and coopers,' carpenters' and shingle makers' tools, and built a triphammer for the work. B3lain came here from Waterloo, N. Y.. and was a skillful artisan at the trade, and Cook was also an expert workman in iron and steel. In the early part of 1852 the 448 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. works were burned, but were immediately rebuilt on a larger scale, with steam power added; near the junction of Ionia and East Fulton streets, William S. Gunn having joined the firm At the new works they were enabled to manufacture six dozen axes per day, besides a variety of other edge tools: In July, 1853, Mr. Gunn bought out his partners, and continued the business for about three years, when he disposed of his interest to Hathaway & Alcumbrack, the plant having in 1854 been removed to the canal bank, by the site of the old Lyon salt well. Charles W. Hathaway and Daniel Alcumbrack constituted the new firm. This shop was burned when the bridge burned in April, I858, at which time F. T. Ranney had succeeded Mr. Hathaway. Rebuilt, and again in the hands of Mr. Hathaway, it was doing a thriving business in I864. Another triphammer had been added to the works, and, soon after, James D. Lyon became a partner. In 1870 they were turning out about 240 axes per day. The factory in I873 passed into the hands of James G. Granger, and a little later the Grand Rapids Ax and Edge Tool Works Company was organized, the members being Benjamin W. Chase, Asa E. Hawley and Charles G. Quivey, under the firm name of Chase, Hawley & Quivey, by whom the works were operated for a few years. More recently the manufacture has been prosecuted by Edward A. Munson, at 52 Mill street. Though not one of the heavy factors in our manufacturing interests, edge-tool making has been carried on here forty years, and still gives employment to fifteen or twenty men, whose annual product will average perhaps $i,ooo each. The history of the works here briefly sketched comprehends substantially that of the entire business in Grand Rapids, 'only one or two small shops besides having taken part therein. William N. Cook came to Grand Rapids in 1843, a blacksmith by trade. He was born at New Hartford, Oneida County, N. Y., May I3, 1821. His first work here was in forging iron work for flouring mills. Soon opening a shop, he followed his trade during most of his business career. His sign was a familiar one for twenty years or more, being the motto of the order of the Mechanics' Mutual Protection —"The Hope of Reward Sweetens Labor." He was also for some years engaged in the making of edge tools, an expert in most lines of his craft, and though resting from hard work is still a sprightly citizen. He has served efficiently in several ward and city offices, and takes much interest in horticulture. He ironed by hand work and set up in 1843 the first buggy with elliptic steel springs made in this valley. GUNSMITHING. Samuel Buchanan came to Grand Rapids in 1842 and opened a gun shop on Ionia street, a little south of Monroe. He worked at the business of making and repairing firearms for near a dozen years. His son, John C. Buchanan, learned the trade, and removed his little factory to the north side of Monroe street, opposite the National Hotel, where he continued the business until the breaking out of the War of the Rebellion, when he enlisted and went into the army. About i858, or a little earlier, George R. Pierce opened a gunsmith shop on Monroe street below Waterloo, and Chester B. Turner embarked in the business on West Bridge street. This is not classed among the heavy branches of manufacturing in Grand Rapids, but from the beginning two or three mechanics of the trade have found in it a fairly remunerative occupation. In 1867 Charles Lindberg opened a shop on Ottawa street, and followed the business most of the time for about twenty years. John H. Mahieu, in 1867 and for some time, carried on a shop on Monroe street. Christian G. Baisch, locksmith and gunsmith, has worked at the business a dozen years or more near the Bridge Street House. Other parties at recent dates have been trading in guns, pistols and sporting goods generally; among them William H. and Henry W. Calkins for several years on Ottawa street prior to 1885; also Lysander S. Hill & Co., on Pearl street, recently and up to the present time. (Mr. Hill, the senior partner of this last named firm, died in December, I888.) RAILROAD CAR SHOPS. The Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company opened their shops in I876. They are in the southern part of the city between Hilton and Wallen streets, occupying about twenty-five acres. Repairs for the railroad GAS FITTING-PLUMBING-BRASS —BRONZE -FILES. 449 are made in these shops, as well as building new coaches and freight cars. In i886 the coach and paint shops were destroyed by fire, but were rebuilt with substantial structures on a much larger scale. The capacity of the shops (I888), in addition to repairs, is two coaches and from fifteen to twenty freight cars per month. The average number of men employed in the shops is about three hundred and fifty, at an expense of some twenty thousand dollars per month; but as the department in charge of the Master Mechanic, S. K. Bradley, includes all engineers and firemen on the road, the total number of employes in his charge averages about six hundred, with a monthly pay roll of nearly thirty-five thousand dollars. GAS FITTING AND PLUMBING. Work at this trade began immediately after the introduction of gas in this city. As early as July 28, 1857, Norcross & Co. advertised their readiness to receive orders for gas fitting in all its branches, at the store of Foster, Martin & Co. William W. France, Jan. I, I858, opened a gas fixture shop near the foot of Monroe street, and about the same time the hardware firm of which Wilder D. Foster was the head made gas fitting a branch of their business. Previous to that, plumbing, though a small business, had been done by most of the hardware establishments. As a distinct business that of plumbing and gas fitting has become quite an important one. In i865 Thomas Smethurst entered the field, near the corner of Ottawa and Monroe streets, where he, and after him J. A. Smethurst, continued the business for about a dozen years, and then removed to Lagrave street. In 1873 Shriver, Weatherly & Co., began this class of work at the corner of Lyon and Canal streets, Thomas Smith & Co. on Monroe street, and William A. Brown on Canal street. Since the latter date have appeared, McDermot Bros., afterward McDermot & Runions, on Ottawa street; William Miller, on South Ionia street, and Sproul & McGurrin, as steam fitters also, on Canal street. Still later, since I880, Ditric & Hoffman, Thompson & Robertson, A. F. Worfel & Co., Allingham & Bannerman, W. J. Cunningham, A. B. Hum & Co., Manns, Soule & Co., and Hunt & McCall, and perhaps some others have operated in the trade. With half a 43 dozen establishments in operation, this important branch of industry is now an adjunct of considerable proportions to our manufacturing interests, giving employment to a large number of hands, and it is to be hoped that the workers are accumulating profits with the ease and facility traditionally attributed to the professional plumber. Weatherly & Pulte are running a good business on Pearl street, and Fred Shriver gives employment to several hands at his works on Island street. SPECIAL CASTING. Moulton & Rempis-L. V. Moulton and J. H. Rempis-have a thrifty business at 54-56 North Front street, where they make a specialty of grey iron castings, manufacturing a variety of convenient and useful articles, such as lawn vases, settees, roof crestings, carriage steps and hitching posts. BRASS AND BRONZE WORKS. The manufacture of brass goods as a distinct business in Grand Rapids was begun in May, 1882, when Daniel W. Tower associated himself with Thomas Farmer, Jr., for the purpose; making cabinet hardware and trimmings. In i887 Mr. Tower purchased Mr. Farmer's interest in the firm, and in July, i888, it was merged in the Grand Rapids Brass Company then organized-President, Daniel W. Tower; Vice President, M. S. Sinclair; Secretary and Treasurer, George F. Sinclair. Their factory is of brick, four stories, 50 by 92 feet, at 162 to i66 Court street, finely equipped with the best of machinery, and as near fire-proof as may be. Capital stock, $25,ooo. Employes, sixty. Output of goods about $75,000 per year. VALLEY CITY FILE WORKS. File making was begun in this city about 1863 by William Cox, whose shop, for a time, was on Lyon street, afterward removed to Erie and then, about 1872, to Mill street. Two or three years later the establishment was taken to the West Side and is located at 75 Front street. It gives work to four employes. The business consists of the manufacture and recutting of mill and machine and three-cornered files. The sales amount to some $4,000 annually. It is the only factory of that kind in the city. 450 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. STEEL WIRE NAILS. A new enterprise in this city is that of the Steel Wire Nail Manufacturing Company at 62 and 64 South Front street. It was organized in January, I888-Herman Leitelt, President; Wensel Ansorge, Vice President; William Leitelt, Secretary and Treasurer. Capital stock, $8,000; annual output thus far, about $io,ooo. WOOD WORKING MACHINERY. The manufacture of various kinds of wood working machines has been carried on to some extent by most of the iron machinists of the past forty years, in connection with their general work. For some twelve or fifteen years two or three have turned their attention to the making of special wood working machinery as their main business, and the great growth of the demand for such work has made it a profitable business. C. O. & A. D. Porter have an establishment on North Front street giving employment to many skilled hands. Alexander Dodds conducts a similar establishment on South Front Street. WIRE WORKS. Edward Racine, about 1876, established a factory for wire work on Monroe street, and has continued the business to the present time; having recently removed to Waterloo street, near Fulton. ALDINE PATENT FIRE-PLACE. This article is a movable fire-place, made to be set in any room where it can be connected by pipes with a chimney. It has a grate for burning coal, and is finished with a mantel, making it ornamental as well as useful. The Aldine Manufacturing Company-A. D. Rathbone President; J. T. Philips, Secretary and Treasurer-with factory at the corner of Shawmut avenue and Court street, has been operating some three years. CHAPTER XLI. WAGONS, CARRIAGES AND OTHER VEHICLES. THE difference between the mode of wagon and carriage making now and that of half a century ago is not more marked than in the present improved machinery as compared with the rude tools of our forefathers. How many of the present generation have seen, or, seeing, know the use of, hand spinning wheels, clock reels, and swifts? Yet less than fifty years ago the wagon maker was often the provider of those articles, then household necessities, every part of which was made by hand. So also with the other products of his skill; he must be master of his trade, to do good work, and able to fashion every portion from the raw material into the finished vehicle; though perhaps the result of his labor sometimes would be an article of curiosity rather than of use. Now, he goes to the supply store and picks out, readyshaped, nearly every piece needed in the construction of his work, and, fitting them together, behold one man has done the work of ten! In a work of this nature two things may be said to be nearly impossible-first, to make no mistake; and second, to mention every one connected with any particular industry. In the first case, the absence of reliable information may cause unauthenticated rumors or traditions to be taken as facts. In the second case, "out of sight, out of mind"-how many persons in any particular trade, to-day, could twenty-five, or even five, years hence name all or half of those now engaged in the same business, even though constantly meeting them at the various institutions in the city, unless brought very closely in contact? Prominent ones might be recalled, peculiar ones might be remembered, but the mass of the rank and file are like the vague and shadowy impressions of a dream, in memory. A FEW CUTTERS. The pioneer who needed a sleigh, if he had some carpenters' tools, generally managed to hew out a rough and rather heavy one for himself, and with a little aid from the nearest blacksmith made it serviceable; though sometimes a "pung" was constructed with no ironing. Undoubtedly the first cutters made and marketed here were built by a cabinet maker-William Haldane. Wishing to take a winter trip to Ohio, in the fall of I837, he made for himself a "gooseneck" cutter, with a square box, and tall knees the better to get over low bushes or stumps. But immediately came along the young man who kept the first bookstore in Kent and wanted to buy it. Haldane sold it, and proceeded to make another. This caught the eye of another ambitious young merchant, near the Eagle Hotel, who purchased it, giving $5 extra for a little nicer finish. A third cutter was disposed of similarly, each buyer advancing the price, to outdo his predecessor. Those were sold at $75 each and upward-such vehicles as now, if they were fashionable, would be marketed for perhaps $20 or $25. EARLY SPOKESHAVERS. A few carpenters or other 'workers in wood managed to do the little repairing in wagons that was necessary during the first six or eight years of this settlement, and perhaps among them were one or two skilled wagon makers by trade. In I842, it seems, there was not enough of exclusive carriage work to keep a shop busy, if one may judge by the following advertisement, then the only one of its kind, which appeared in the newspaper here, the Grand Rapids Enquirer: 452 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Eastern Prices for Hard Labor! HE subscribers would inform their friends and the public generally, that they are now manufacturing at their CARRIAGE SHOP, (a few rods north of the National Notel,) every variety of Carriage, from a Stage Coach to a Wheel-barrow, comprising Coaches, Lumber and Buggy one or two horse Wagons, Carts, Trucks, &c.; Traverse and Stiff Sleighs, Cutters, of every description; Spinning Wheels, Clock Reels, Patent Swifts, &c., &c., kept constantly on hand, or made to order, at the shortest notice. BAXTER & GREEN Grand Rapids, Dec. 26, 1842. It appears that, in addition to carriage work, several articles of household use (known in few houses, 'if any, nowadays) were among the manufactures of this wagon shop. It stood on Ionia street, a little south of Fountain. Joseph J. Baxter and Hezekiah Green composed the firm. Within two or three years, several other wagonmakers came. One named O'Flynn had a small shop near the junction of Ionia and Fulton streets. Luman Powers, after 1845, and Benjamin F. Martindale, from 1844 to i850, worked at the trade. The firm of Baxter & Green lasted but a year or two. The former built a new shop, a little south of the old, and formed a partnership with William H. Stewart, which was also shortlived. At that shop, in 1846, was put up for Canton Smith the first covered cab or barouche built in this city. In I847, Albert Baxter and Jesse Newsom, and in the following year John Roost, were at work in this shop. In 1848 came George C. Fitch, and opened business at the corner of Monroe and Ionia streets. In 1849, L. G. & A. Baxter (Leonard G. and Albert) bought the shop and succeeded to the business of Joseph J. Baxter. After a few months John L. Baxter purchased the interest of Albert Baxter, the firm name being changed to L. G. & J. L. Baxter. In 1852 Leonard G. retired and was succeeded by Albert. Blacksmithing and painting were carried on with this business from 1848 till I854. Other early wagon makers were: Alphonso W. Almy, in 1849, on the corner of Canal and Erie streets; and William Edmondson in I853, near Bridge street. A considerable number of carriage makers and factories are mentioned more at length elsewhere. GEORGE C. FITCH. Among the early carriage makers in the city is George C. Fitch, still in the business, who came from Vermont in 1848 and began work on the south corner of Monroe and Ionia streets, and a little later moved down toward the then new Catholic Church building, to a lot of 66'feet front which cost $500. In 1850 his brother James 0. Fitch entered into partnership with him, which relation continued as G. C. & J. O. Fitch until 1854. In 1858 he removed his shop to Division street between Fountain and Monroe where he continued for several years in partnership with M. P. Brown. In i885, chiefly to get out of the business and devote his time to real estate interests, he moved to 488 South Division street, where he has a three story building, in which five men work, earning nearly $i80 a month and turning out several thousand dollars worth of carriages annually. Mr. Fitch has $2,00ooo invested in his shop. His reminiscences of the changes in the business during his forty years of experience in Grand Rapids would of themselves make an interesting chapter. At one time he had made twelve lumber wagons and exposed them for sale in front of his shop. Warren P. Mills, passing along and seeing the large stock, for those times, asked in astonishment when he expected to sell them. In i858 Mr. Fitch was working from twenty to twenty-five men, most of the time, with very little more product than he now gets with five, one of whom-Patrick Fennell —has been with him since I854. James 0. Fitch, who came to Grand Rapids in i85o, has (with the exception of a year or two in grocery trade) followed carriage making ever since. In 1859 he was in a shop at the corner of Bridge and Canal streets where the Hermitage building now stands. Afterward for some thirteen years prior to i880, his factory was on Waterloo a short distance north of Fulton; HARRISON WAGON WORKS-BUILT IN i880 AND REBUILT IN I889. JAMES O. FITCH-THE HARRISON WAGON WORKS. 453 and later has been on South Division street. The brothers Fitch are among the quiet and unostentatious but thorough-going, trusty, and highly prized citizens of this community. THE HARRISON WAGON FACTORY. In August, 1856, William Harrison laid the foundation for the present mammoth Harrison Wagon Works by erecting a substantial stone building on Front Street of such solid proportions that it was soon familiarly known as "The Old Fort," though now it would not be considered a very great undertaking, the shop being only forty by eighty feet, two stories and basement. At that time many people regarded it as a daring business enterprise, that being the largest and most substantial factory of the kind in the State. When he moved his stock from Kalamazoo, where he had been engaged in the same business three years, the long train of wagons loaded with materials coming in over the plank road and crossing the bridge attracted nearly as much attention as would now the street pageant of a Barnum. Before the building was completed, all commercial and manufacturing enterprises were sadly crippled, and many of them driven to the wall, by the financial crash and business panic of I857. Among the sufferers was the man who was under contract to put in and furnish the factory with water power. This made it necessary for Mr. Harrison to procure power from the East Side canal, and cramped his new enterprise, in spite of the twenty thousand dollars worth of stock on hand, to such an extent that matters progressed slowly. Mr. Harrison arranged for the use of part of the basement of a sash, door and blind factory on Mill street, of which he took a five-years lease. Soon, needing more room, he threw up the lease, and purchased a building on Mill lots F and G-that for some years had been used as a sawmill-which he occupied until I879, doing a large business compared with the size of the shop and the conveniences for turning out work. In 1867 water power was made available on the West Side, and the "Old Fort" soon shared the benefit therefrom. In the spring of that year the building stood a test that showed it had not been misnamed. A freshet occurred before the owner had sufficiently strengthened the guard gates at the head of the canal, and they were swept away. This threw a heavy current of the high water, loaded with logs and ice cakes from above the dam, directly against the walls of the factory, which withstood the shock with only small damage. About 1867 Mr. Harrison had so far recovered from the effects of the panic that he was able to build seven hundred wagons, which he sent from Grand Rapids to Ionia, Muir, Saranac and other central points, where he peddled them out to farmers; in some cases taking their notes for the purchases. In June, 1879, the buildings on the East Side with their contents were destroyed by fire. Mr. Harrison had meanwhile purchased land near the Detroit and Milwaukee Junction, at the North end of the city, with the intention of erecting a larger and more convenient factory. The new works were occupied in the fall of I879, and then consisted of only two buildings, two stories high; one 40 by 21o feet, the other i80 by 48 feet; wood frames veneered with brick. In 1869 commenced shipment of the Harrison Wagon into the Western States. At the time Mr. Harrison began in the business, a clumsy vehicle, frequently unpainted, was considered a triumph for the wagon maker and a great boon for the farmer, and commanded a price which, if ruling today, would make fortunes for all in the trade. While the manufacturer has steadily advanced with the march of science, the farmer has not been idle, and, not satisfied with the former rude article christened a wagon, demands the latest improved, and receives that which would astonish and delight his worthy ancestors, were they alive to behold it. Since opening his trade Mr. Harrison has steadily pushed the work, devoting his energy to the effort of furnishing farm and freight wagons only. A great difference in the manner of doing the business now is seen, as compared with that of twenty years ago. Then wagons were sold for cash or short time notes, amply secured. Now the great competition makes profits small, and often forces the manufacturer, in order to secure his proportion of the trade, to sell on long time or ship to the agricultural depots to be sold on commission. Finding it difficult at first to procure help in his new location, on account of the scarcity of houses and convenient boarding places, Mr. Harrison devoted a portion of 454 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS his time to overseeing the erection of a large number of comfortable cottages for the workmen, until in the spring of I880 he was able to run his works at full blast, and now Harrisonville, as the ninety-three acre plat around the factory is called, contains several hundred inhabitants. In the meantime improvement in the factory has progressed, until the plant consists of an enclosure of ten acres, containing three large factory buildings from 200 to 300 feet in length, and from 40 to 68 feet in width, and with ten large warehouses, covering over 120,000 square feet of shop room, concentering all the energies of an industrial hamlet toward the one object of making a perfect farm and freight wagon. These works are now giving steady employment to an average of I50 workmen; with a capacity equal to turning out a finished wagon every fifteen minutes during the day. Still this is not a very young enterprise. In age it covers almost two-thirds of the period since the first frame dwelling was erected in the Grand River Valley. WILLIAM HARRISON is a native of Lincolnshire, England, born Jan. 10, 1824. He attended school in his boyhood at Sibsey, also a select school at Cambridgeshire. At fifteen years of age his father gave him his choice between education for a profession and learning a mechanical trade. He chose the latter, and accordingly he was apprenticed in I839, for six years, to learn the trade of joiner and wheelwright; his father paying for his instruction /20, and furnishing everything except board. His uncle became his bondsman upon the articles of indenture. After serving his time as an apprentice, he worked four years longer for the same employer; his wages much of the time being not more than twenty cents a day and board. The eight-hour day was not fashionable then; working hours lasted from six o'clock in the morning until eight at night, with half an hour allowed for breakfast and an hour for dinner. Nevertheless at the end of four years he had managed to save about $ioo (/20) which he loaned to two friends at five per cent. interest, but lost it all. In I849 he again attended school for a short time, and then determined to come to America. Before leaving he had a conference with his father, and asked if the latter would furnish him some funds. The reply was that he would not if the son was going to the United States, but would help start him in business if he would stay in England. Thereupon the young man started without aid and reached New York May 2I, i85o. Stopping there but a few days, he proceeded to Kalamazoo, Mich., and on arriving there had but half a sovereign and a few shillings left. He soon found work at his trade, his wages being nearly two dollars a daysomething better than he had been accustomed to in England. Most of his pay, however, was in barter, on account of the great scarcity'of sound money in Michigan at the time, which most people of mature years well remember. With the net proceeds of his labor, which included-one dollar in money, he went the next year to Galesburg, Mich., where he worked seven months. He then returned to Kalamazoo and entered upon a contract to make fifty sets of wagon wheels, for which he was to receive cash, but the other party failed to fulfill the agreement. In 1852 Mr. Harrison went to Schoolcraft and began business there for himself, at which he worked for about a year. Returning then to Kalamazoo, he bought a shop where he carried on business for several years, in the mean time making some investments in real estate which proved profitable. In 1856 Mr. Harrison came to Grand Rapids and at once established himself anew in his favorite occupation; opening a career as an enterprising and successful wagon manufacturer, the course of which has been steadily onward and upward in the front rank of that business. The history of the Harrison Wagon Works is given in these pages. In October, 1852, Mr. Harrison married Rebecca McCullough, a native of Ireland. Of five children born to them only three-Mrs. George I. Davidson, Mrs. James Curtis and George E. Harrison-are living. Mrs. Harrison died May 5, I869. February 5, 1870, he married Frances Adelaide, daughter of Samuel H. Gilbert, formerly of Canterbury, England. Of five children by this union four are living-Bertha L., Roy G.,William and Morton. Mrs. Harrison is a devout and esteemed member of the Second Street M. E. Church, and Mr. Harrison has been for forty-five years an active member of that religious denomination. In politics he has ever been a stanch Republican since the * 'wM K y ///d t c~~y ^y^A^^^^i/~~ I WILLIAM HARRISON-WAGON FACTORIES. 455 organization of that party. As a citizen Mr. Harrison is known and appreciated for his industry, enterprise and integrity. He is methodical and thorough in his business, and candid, companionable and obliging in social and domestic circles. Few, if any, have contributed more than he to the upbuilding and material progress of Grand Rapids. As a fruit of his energetic operations in manufacturing, he has become the holder of extensive properties in real estate; owning in several parcels within tie city I30 acres, and ioo acres outside of and adjoining the municipality. A plat of 93 acres, by his wagon works, on which a large number of his workmen have excellent living quarters, is popularly known as Harrisonville. His is a notable example of steady success in the business life of our city. HEINZELMANN AND OTHERS. Charles F. Heinzelmann opened a horseshoeing and general repair shop on Bronson s;reet in I859. After a few years he entered into partnership in wagonmaking with,Frederick Osterle and Valentine Schaake, the new firm of Heinzelmann, Osterle & Co. hanging up their sign on Canal between Bridge and Hastings streets. Heinzelmann & Rathman was the next announcement, Julius Rathman purchasing Mr. Osterle's interest. In 1865 the business again changed hands, Henry Fiebig purchasing Mr. Heinzelmann's interest and changing the firm to Fiebig & Rathman. They erected a brick block in 1872, and dissolved the relation in 1877, each taking half of the building. Mr. Heinzelmann then entered into partnership with John Gelock and built a large brick shop on the southwest corner of Waterloo and Louis streets. This firm did a good business until I874, when the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Gelock retaining the rear of the building as a carriage shop. Mr. Heinzelmann then moved to Oakes street, near Ellsworth avenue, and building a large shop, again showed his ability to cater to the public in producing an honest and serviceable wagon or carriage. In the fall of I887 he finished a portion of his factory for a dwelling, and retired from the business, which on a smaller scale has since been carried on by his son, in partnership with Martin Gelock. ARTHUR WOOD'S FACTORY. In 1865 H. P. Colby, with James H. McKee, started a carriage factory, and October I, 1867, Arthur Wood was induced to purchase the McKee interest in the business of Colby, Sons & Co., and the firm was changed to Colby, Wood & Co. February i, i868, Mr. Wood bought out the other partners, and the business has since been handled by himself. The plant on Waterloo street gives employment to from fifteen to twenty men. His annual output averages about $50,000, and is sent to all parts of the country, but principally the Southern and Western States. It consists of buggies, road carts, sleighs and family carriages. Since i868 there has been a gradual dropping of prices, until now better articles can be made for one third the prices which ruled then. As an offset to this, the increasing demand for vehicles and the improvements in machinery, with specialties in all kinds of materials used, enables the wagon,shop of today with ten men to turn out more and better work than it could twenty years ago with nearly ioo men. He then thought he was doing well with thirty-five jobs turned out the first year, and fixed his highest ambition at 200 a year; yet in 1877 he reached 1,381 jobs, and in the two years ending August, I888, put out 2,500; and still he is struggling for more, with fair prospects ahead. BELKNAP WAGONS AND SLEIGHS. "Merit wins" is an old saw which seems to be verified in this case. In 1871 we find Charles E. Belknap blowing the bellows at the forge and shoeing horses. Shortly afterward wagons are made at this smithy. In I884 we find the Belknap Wagon and Sleigh Company organized, with an authorized capital of $ioo,ooo, for the manufacture of Farm, Freight and Express Wagons; Lumber, Mill and Farm Carts, and Logging Carts and Trucks, with Chas. E. Belknap, President and Manager, and H. P. Belknap, Secretary and Treasurer. The present works on North Front street, give employment to about fifty men. Of the annual output of $I25,000 some $2,I00 comes back each month to the men employed, as compensation for their labor. 456 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. CHARLES EUGENE BELKNAP was born at Massena, St. Lawrence county, N. Y., October 17, I846. The family moved to Grand Rapids in I855. His educational opportunities were those of the city schools. At twelve years of age he joined a theatrical company, with which he remained about one year. He then served one summer as cabin boy on a Grand River steamer. August 12, 1862, being then not quite sixteen years old, he enlisted as a private in Company H of the Twenty-first Michigan Infantry. Thereafter he was promoted to be Fourth Sergeant, September I, 1862; First Sergeant, January i, 1863; Sergeant Major of the Regiment, February I, 1863; Second Lieutenant, April i, 1863; First Lieutenant, September 22, 1863, for gallant service at the battle of Chickamauga, by special order of General P. H. Sheridan; Captain, January 8, 1864, in recognition of services rendered at and near Chattanooga, Tennessee. He served in the Army of the Cumberland during the Atlanta campaign, and with General Sherman's army in the "march to the sea" and through the Carolinas. He was mustered out of service June 8, I865. At the battles of Stone River and Chickamauga he received seven wounds, none of them very serious. Thus it appears that he was where the bullets fell thickly. After the war, from the fall of I865 to I871, Captain Belknap lived on a farm in the town of Sparta. He then returned to this city, and in a moderate way entered upon the manufacture of wagons, which has been his principal business pursuit since. Further mention of his wagon and sleigh factory precedes this sketch. In 1872 he joined No. 3 Fire Company of which he soon became foreman. Afterward in the fire service he was Assistant Chief under General I. C. Smith, with whom he served upward of four years. During this period a change was made in the Department from the volunteer to the pay system. In 1878 he was appointed a member of the Board of Education, and served seven years. In I88o he was elected Alderman from the Seventh Ward, for the term of two years. In 1884 he was elected Mayor of Grand Rapids, for the term of one year, receiving a majority of 753 votes. February i, I885, he was appointed by the Governor a Trustee of the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb at Flint, for the term which expires in Feb ruary, 1891. At the general election in November, i888, he was elected, on the Republican ticket, Representative in Congress for the Fifth District of Michigan, receiving 26,309 votes to 23,642 for his leading competitor. Mr. Belknap married, December 25, I866, Chloe M. Caswell, a resident of this city. They have a family of four daughters. In domestic and social circles he exhibits genial affability and kindness of disposition that win him friends everywhere. He has come to his present high estate in popular esteem and confidence by persistent, straight-forward industry and perseverance, through upright and manly dealing and conduct, and faithfulness in all public trusts. Therein lies the promise of much future usefulness and success. Quick of perception and prompt in execution, with untiring zeal, he carries the elements of a yet more notable career. MACK'S BENT WORK. John Mack thinks he made the first bent logging runners in this part of the country, in I868, at Tallmadge, Ottawa County, that being his start in manufacturing bent wood work for the wagon and sleigh trade. He carried on the business there until 1872, doing the work by hand, and disposing of his product, about $7,000 annually, to Marcus P. Brown. In 1872 Mr. Mack came to Grand Rapids, renting room and power of the Grand Rapids Manufacturing Company for a year, after which he entered a partnership with George T. Kendall on Canal and Fairbanks streets, which continued until the death of Mr. Kendall in 1878, at which time Charles A. Boynton & Co. purchased the plant. Shortly after this Mr. Mack started the manufacture of buggy bodies and cutters in a small way, in the third story of Mechanics Block, corner of Louis and Campau streets, where he remained until the completion of the Raniville Block, on Pearl street, near the east end of the bridge, in the fall of 1883, into which he moved. He there occupied two upper floors, employing in I888 eighteen men, at a monthly pay rate of about $800. His annual product amounts to about $25,000, for which he has an invested capital of $5,000. He makes a specialty of one of his own patents, consisting of a bob sleigh made of selected material and having bent knees, set bracing in grooved benches, thus /lc~teco C J4)eOL BUGGY, WAGON AND CARRIAGE FACTORIES. 4 57 giving more strength with less weight than the ordinary bob-sled. SPIRAL SPRING BUGGIES. In July, I88I, George Smith procured letters patent on a carriage spring consisting of a spiral coil of spring steel rod about five-eighths of an inch square, adjusted underneath the seat and directly in the center of the body, attached to two steel bars, from which are four steel arms or levers leading to the side bars, and so constructed that by the simple turn of a nut the tension is adjusted to any desired point. For years inventors and manufacturers had been taxing their ingenuity in efforts to devise some means by which a carriage body could be kept approximately level when unevenly loaded, but nothing satisfactory had resulted until this invention. The general introduction of the spiral spring was considerably delayed by want of capital on the part of the inventor to push it, but enough were built to attract the attention of men with sufficient means. and at the little shop, No. 44 East Bridge street, in May, I88I, was organized the Spiral Spring Buggy Company, with a capital of $Ioo,ooo, of which Norman Cummings was President, George Smith, Vice President; and Charles Cummings Secretary and Treasurer. The sales increased to such an extent as to render the shop too small, and in January, 1885, they occupied new quarters in a four story brick block on Kent street, where they claim to have the largest strictly-hand-made-carriage factory in the world; turning out only carriages and buggies made to order, by hand work. Up to I885 the spiral springs used were all made in Grand Rapids; but to facilitate the filling of orders, factories have been started at Chicago, Ill.; Rochester, N. Y.; Hammond, Ind., and other convenient points for their distribution; while the Grand Rapids factory controls the sale of all carriages having these springs. The annual output is now estimated at $ioo,ooo from the home factory, and this is claimed to represent only about twenty per cent. of the whole amount which the company put upon the market in the United States. THE ANCHOR-CIRCLE WAGON. William John Russell started his wagon shop in I884, and in January, 1885, Edward 44 M. Simmons purchased a half interest in the business, at which time the firm of Russell & Simmons was formed. After some experiments, March 23, I886, the firm secured letters patent on an invention of Mr. Simmons, of which they now make a specialty in their work. It consists of an anchor circle for high wheeled wagons. In making a short turn the body of the wagon travels outward. Dispensing with the fifth wheel, the kingbolt enters seven and a half inches back of the center of the axle. It makes an easy running gear, and as the body of the wagon is kept in equilibrium by this device, it is almost impossible to upset the carriage in making a short turn. Their shop on south Waterloo street gives employment to eight men, mostly on ordered work and general repairing for the home trade. They estimate their annual output at $io,ooc while the capital invested is $Io,ooo. A first prize was awarded to the firm, on this style of wagon, in the fall of i888 at the annual fair of the Western Michigan Agricultural and Industrial Society. CHILDREN S CARRIAGES. The Priestley Express Wagon and Sleigh Company contribute to the amusement of the rising generation by the manufacture of children's sleighs and express wagons. In I88o Charles R. Bacon and Forrest M. Priestley started in the business and, after a struggle of a few years, financial embarrassment on their part gave Gurdon Corning possession in I884, and April 2I, i885, he was succeeded by the present combination of brain and skill, with an authorized capital of $20,000, of which when incorporated $II,ooo was paid in, with the following official board: Theodore F. Richards, President; James A. Hunt, Vice President; Forrest M. Priestley, Secretary, and George Arnott, Treasurer. The offices of Secretary and Treasurer have since been consolidated and the position held by Mr. Arnott. The factory is on Front street south of Fulton. Their output consists of all kinds of children's sleighs and coasters, for the manufacture of which they have improved special machinery and ample facilities, and which are sent to all parts of the Western States and Territories; amounting to over $50,000 yearly. In their employ are some fifty operatives, mostly boys, whose wages range from five to ten dollars 458 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. a week, the pay roll averaging over $I,200 monthly. A FEW MORE OF THEM. Of the many other wagon shops that are or have been operated here it is scarcely possible, even were it desirable, to give a full list, with separate descriptions in detail. Some have only the investment of an anvil, a forge and a few tools and yet manage to hold their own, while on the other hand a few that are fully equipped do but little more than pay expenses. Bennett Pierce came here in i855 and opened his shop in a building on Lyon street, near Kent. In 1859 we find him on Kent street between Lyon and Bronson, and next on the corner of Bridge and Canal. In 1865 we hear of him on Waterloo street nearly opposite the Eagle Hotel, then again in 1873 in partnership with Frank F. Jeffres near the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad station; and of late still at work, moderately, like a mechanic of the old school, on north Waterloo street. Among others who were making wagons thirty years ago or thereabout were William Edmondson, Sebra Rathbun, George Jennings, John Gelock, Cook & Seymour, Charles B. Dean and D. Aspinwall. A considerable number now in the business have been at work almost a quarter of a century. Valentine Schaake, now (I889) on East Bridge street, started in 1863 on Canal street, and after various changes runs a small shop with three workmen, and with but a moderate investment turns out about $7,500 worth of wagons and other carriages annually for the local custom trade. Charles Dawson, 12 South Ionia, started with John Cummings in I88I, and the next year branched out for himself; keeps seven men busy; turns out fine carriages and Russian sleighs, the forging and scroll work on which is all done by hand. His annual output is about 5,000ooo. While the work now is more elaborate on fine goods than it was some years ago, the facilities for obtaining most articles used has reduced the cost, leaving the net profit about the same. John Cummings, 42 North Division street, employs twelve men, making a specialty of carriages, sulkies and light road wagons, turns out about $I5,ooo worth of ordered work yearly, and is called one of the finest workmen in his line in the city. Brechting Brothers have been in their present place on West Bridge street for fourteen years. Their output, consisting mostly of heavy work, gives employment to eight men, and represents $8,ooo capital invested. Henry W. Fiebig started in 1858 with Robert Rasch, under the firm name of Fiebig & Rasch, with their shop on Canal street, between Bridge and Hastings. In 1862 the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Rasch leaving, and Mr. Fiebig opening a shop where now is Redmond's Opera House, remaining there until 1865, when he bought out Charles F. Heinzelmann and entered into a partnership with Julius Rathman, which continued till 1877, since which Mr. Fiebig has worked alone. His capital invested is about $2,500, and with four men he puts out about $6,ooo a year. His shop is the half of a three-story brick building at 148 Canal street. Julius Rathman in I863 went into partnership with C. F. Heinzelmann, who in 1865 sold out to Henry Fiebig, and the firm of Fiebig & Rathman continued till I877, when it was dissolved, and Mr. Rathman carried on the business alone. With a capital of $2,500 his annual output is about $6,000, giving employment to four men. Felix Gissler and Philip Fritz formed a partnership July I9, 1882. Their wagon and sleigh factory, on the corner of Bridge and Alabama streets, with an investment of $12,000, gives employment to six men, and turns out from $I5,ooo to $20,000 annually, mostly heavy work. Colby, Craig & Company make a specialty of fine display and delivery wagons. The business was started April 15, 1887, by H. P. Colby, H. J. Craig and H. L. Colby, with a capital of $700, which has since been increased to $3,000. They manufacture to order special wagons of all kinds, and place $I5,000 worth of ordered work in the hands of their patrons yearly, giving employment to a dozen men. The shop is by the west end of Fulton street bridge. WHEELBARROWS. Among the very early mechanics here was James Thompson, who came in 1835 and WHEELBARROWS-CO-OPERATION-FARMING IMPLEMENTS. 459 worked at making wheelbarrows for the use of Nathaniel 0. Sargeant and his men in digging the first canal or race to develop the water power. After that nearly every wagon maker or repairer, in the village days, made wheelbarrow construction part of his business. For the excavating when the east side canal was finished down to the foot of the basin a large number of "Irish buggies" were brought from Illinois, to be used by the Holland immigrants who were employed in that work. Not until recent years in Grand Rapids has the making of wheelbarrows been carried on as a specialty of sufficient magnitude to keep a factory busy, or to be a part of the export trade. The Grand Rapids Wheelbarrow Company was organized March 31, 1882, with a capital stock of $I5,450-John Broadfoot, President; Frank P. McGraw, Vice President, David L. Stiven, Secretary and Treasurer. The official board was changed in 1884 by the election of William Hake, President; Adolph Leitelt, Jr., Vice President, and Frank P. McGraw Secretary and Treasurer. The factory, on Front street near the west end of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad bridge, furnishes employment for about twenty-five men. The company claim that they have a larger trade and greater capacity for production than any other establishment of the kind in the United States. Their shipments go wherever wheelbarrows are in demand in our own and other countries. A CO-OPERATIVE VENTURE. In May I888 a number of workmen thought co-operation would be to their mutual benefit, and their councils resulted in the formation of the Continental Wagon Works: John Burrows, President; John B. Bonser, Vice President; Lorenzo D. Field, Secretary and Treasurer; Charles A. Bissonette, Superintendent. The institution breathed long enough to start a shop on the corner of Spring and Goodrich streets which with the remains of the corporation was taken charge of by John Burrows on September i, i888, and run by him as a job shop for repairs and the manufacture of wagons. FARMING IMPLEMENTS. During eight or ten years after the establishment of foundries here, the manufacture of farm implements was confined chiefly to plow and wagon making. Of wooden farming instruments there was not much variety of home manufacture. Two or three small shops were engaged a portion of the time in the wooding of plows. Plow making was carried on to some extent as early as 1841, and from that time for several years, by Henry Stone and his son Henry G. Stone. The making of fanning mills was begun as a business at the corner of Canal and Bridge streets, in June, 1848, by Renwick & Graves. Horse-power machines for threshing, wood sawing, or other similar farm work, a few of them, soon came upon the market, but were not manufactured here until several years later. In 1852 Jonathan F. Chubb opened a store for the sale of farming implements, and in 'the same year P. R. Jarvis began the manufacture of straw cutters. Stone, Chubb & Co., about 1854, opened a factory and salesrooms at the corner of Canal and Huron streets, and about the same time Deane & Atwater were carrying on a similar business north of Bridge street. W. S. H. Welton was not a manufacturer but opened an agricultural warehouse and seed store on Monroe street. Ebenezer M. Ball and A. Lamont Chubb in I858 were manufacturing plows, cultivators, grain cradles and a variety of other farm implements, with warerooms on Canal street and foundry on the west side of the river. In I858 Wm. B. Renwick was manufacturing fanning mills and milk safes on Mill street, a short distance above Bridge street. In the manufacture of these articles, a large business was also carried on from I855 to 1872, by Ledyard & Aldrich; their factory was upon the ground where now stands St. Andrew's Cathedral, and they shipped their products to nearly all points in Michigan and Wisconsin. The wood working part of the establishment on Canal street, near Huron, was kept in operation about twenty-five years. In 1867 it was managed by Chubb, Stewart & Luther, and ten years later Luther & Sumner were there. The latter removed their works and warerooms to South Front street about i88i. Out of this thrifty enterprise in I869 grew the Grand Rapids Manufacturing Company, organized for the production of almost every implement of wood and iron used by the farmer. The factory which they started 460 HISTCRY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. is still at work, by the corner of South Front and Earle streets. A. L. Chubb was President and Sylvester Luther Secretary and Treasurer of the company at its formation. The shops are capacious and well supplied with the latest improved machinery for its class of work. It uses a capital of $50,000, and turns out an annual product of nearly $200,000, furnishing employment for about thirty mechanics. Besides the above a few individuals with small shops are engaged in the manufacture of special articles of wood for farm and domestic use. In the city there is also a large amount of trade in farm implements manufactured elsewhere and brought here for sale-plows, harrows, cultivators, horse powers for farm machine work, windmills, pumps, "drive wells," reapers, mowers, threshers, separators and a.great variety of other articles and tools. Prominent among the dealers in this line are W. C. Denison and Hester & Fox, South Division street; Hanes & Higby, Ellsworth avenue; Brown & Sehler, Front street, north of Bridge; and Adams & North, West Bridge street. W. C. Denison began his trade in 1862, on Monroe street, and for the past twenty years has done a thrifty business as dealer in nearly every description of farm implements and machinery, and in carriages, steam engines and mill apparatus, in stores at 88 to 92 South Division street. WILLIAM C. DENISON was born October 24, I836, in Jefferson, Jackson county, Michigan. His parents were Asa W. and Eliza R. Denison, and the family moved in 1845 to Cascade, Kent County. There, in farm life, the subject of this sketch passed his youth, and received a common school education. In 1862 he came to Grand Rapids and entered business life in the sale of agricultural implements, at first on Monroe street, but seven years later removed to South Division street, between Oakes and Cherry streets, where he has since remained steadily in the trade, with much better than an average degree of success. There he erected a two story brick store with seventy-six feet front, and has constantly carried a large stock of most kinds of farming implements and machinery, together with wagons and buggies, and also mill equipments and steam engines. Energetic and persevering, and in no sense rashly speculative, he has kept the even tenor of a gainful business with such steady success as is realized by but few, and won and retained general confidence in his integrity and honorable trade, not only at home but with dealers elsewhere; as is illustrated by the fact that he has the position of general manager for Michigan of the Cortland and Auburn Wagon Companies of New York State, who have a large trade in this State. He has recently worked gradually out of the traffic in farm implements to devote more attention to that management and to dealing in steam engines and boilers and their accompanying machinery. He has lately placed a large engine-Ioo horse power-for the Grand Rapids and Reeds Lake Electric Railway Company; also a heavy mill engine for a manufacturing company at Copemish, in Wexford County. At the high tide of middle manhood he is alert and active in business enterprise. Mr. Denison married, October 13, I858, at Cascade, Mich., Frances E. Holt, who died November io, I862, leaving a son, Lavello A. Denison. He again married in Grand Rapids, January I, I867, Minerva A. Davidson. They have one child, a daughter, Bertie. He is a member of the Masonic Fraternity. Besides his store and warehouse and a neat residence on Lagrave street, he has other valuable real estate interests within the city. BENT WOOI) STOCK. The Grand Rapids Bending Works is an outgrowth from the firm of Kendall & Mack (Geo. T. Kendall and John Mack). On the death of Mr. Kendall a copartnership was formed between Charles A. Boynton, Wm. H. Fowler and Edward P. Chamberlin, under the firm name of C. A. Boynton & Company, who purchased the plant, and for two years carried on the business on Canal street. In July. i880, they moved to I02 Prescott street and in January, I882, established a stock company, incorporated by C. A. Boynton, President; E. P. Chamberlin, Treasurer; V. H. Fowler, Secretary, as the Grand Rapids Bending Works, with a capital stock of $50,000 authorized, of which $29,200 was paid in. The present works cover 23,650 square feet. In their employ are about thirty men. The output, about $30,000 worth annually, consisting chiefly of wagon and sleigh stock, is shipped mostly to the Middle and Western States. 4 / I CHAPTER XLII. MANUFACTURE OF FURNITURE AND CABINET WARES. To most people of the present day it may seem incredible that, but little more than half a century ago, the rough slab bench or the three-legged stool, was not infrequently an article of kitchen furniture, but such is the fact. The pioneer.who had an ax and saw and jackknife and auger deemed himself qualified to fit out his cabin with a plain table, a square-post bedstead, and a few seats, to begin housekeeping. Not many brought to their new homes in the woods a good outfit; but soon they saw the day of improvement. About 1835 came into the settlement at Grand Rapids two or three who set up foot-lathes and were instrumental in the change from the era of square work to turned work. When William Haldane built his house in 1837, no sooner was the rough sheathing on the frame, and the roof shingled, than he moved in upon a rough board floor. Mrs. Haldane relates that blankets sufficed to cover the windows temporarily, and were not very inconvenient doors. Her husband, being a mechanic, made a door and some sash, and traded other specimens of his work for 8 by Io window glass. He cut from an old bootleg hinges for his door. They put up a squarepost bedstead, put in the bedcord, put thereon a straw bed and retired, feeling that they had a comfortable home of their own; and she says she does not know but they were as happy in those days as they have ever been. The house was at the head of what was then and for more than twenty years called Justice street, now the southeast corner of Pearl and Ottawa streets, and here for many years he carried on the cabinet making business. Archibald Salmon, who came in 1837, had a cabinet shop near Haldane, on Prospect Hill, for a number of years. Samuel F. Butler was another who made cabinet ware, near the Bridge Street House. In 1849, Abram Snively opened a shop for furniture making, on Monroe street in a building that stood where now is the west side of the Morton House, which he carried on for several years. He afterward moved to Grandville. Most of the furniture making here was done by hand until about I848, and it is well to remember that in those days the maker had to learn his trade. William T. Powers came in 1847, and he and Mr. Haldane introduced working by machinery, the former at a shop just above Bridge street by the Canal, the latter at a point some distance below. In 1853 Mr. Haldane began working by steam power instead of water. At that time he had a shop and salesroom near the lower end of Canal street. Mr. Powers' first shop was at the corner of Fountain and Ionia, and his first salesroom was on Canal street, a short distance from Pearl. In 1851 he entered into partnership with E. Morris Ball, and they opened rooms on Pearl street near the Arcade; erecting there a neat wooden building into which they put an "open front" of French plate glass, the first one of that style here (except, perhaps, that in the McConnell block on Monroe street). January i, I855, Mr. Powers retired from the firm and the business was continued by Ball, Noyes & Colby. In 1852, Powers & Ball built a factory on Erie street, and for some time were working about forty men and boys, shipping partly finished chairs and stuffs for McCormick's Reapers in considerable quantities to Chicago; at the same time running a sawmill and making their own lumber, of which they worked up about 300,000 feet a year. In 1853, Eagles & Pullman brought in a stock of furniture and went to manufacturing also, their place being at the corner of Canal street and Crescent avenue. Mr. Eagles died in I854; the Pullmans afterward went to Chicago, HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS and are the men of Pullman Palace Car fame. In July, I854, E. W. Winchester formed a partnership with William Haldane in the furniture business, which continued until some time in the next year, after which, the brothers E. W. and S. A. Winchester started in the trade, and built a factory near the foot of Lyon street which, September 17, 1857, passed into the hands of C. C. Comstock, and became the foundation of the business now carried on by Nelson, Matter & Company. From such beginnings, and through such gradations, marking the period between 1835 and I860, has grown the immense furniture manufacture for which Grand Rapids is now celebrated throughout the world. A representative of the Detroit F-re Press, after an inspection of Grand Rapids furniture factories wrote, in November, 1887, concerning them: Each establishment maintains its own staff of designers, and they are busy the whole year round planning articles of furniture as comfortable, unique and beautiful as the art of man can compass. The designing and execution are alike perfect. The wood carving departments are a wonder in their way. Some of the wood carvers came from Glasgow, having learned their business in the shipyards on the Clyde, carving figure-heads, stem and stern adornments and cabin decorations for the mercantile, naval, racing and pleasure craft of the world. This apprenticeship stood them in good stead. There is no style of carving too intricate for their deft chisels. They could reproduce. if it were required, the carving on the pulpit in St. Gudule's Cathedral at Brussels, one of the most famous bits of woodwork in the world. It is an interesting sight to behold a force of thirty or forty of these handicraftsmen employed in one large room, and to inspect the wonderful variety of work executed there. NELSON, MATTER AND COMPANY. In the early part of 1854 E. W. Winchester came to Grand Rapids from Keene, N. H., where he had learned his trade as cabinet maker and wood worker, hoping to find a good field for his skill in this then comparatively new town. He entered into partnership with William Haldane for the manufacture of furniture. After a year this firm was dissolved, and in 1855 Mr. Winchester formed a partnership with his brother, S. A. Winchester, under the firm name of Winchester Brothers. They built a factory, a plain two-and-a-half-story frame structure, with shingled roof, which would appear insignificant now, but was then considered very large, at the corner of Lyon and Lock streets on the site of the present storage house, finishing and shipping rooms of Nelson, Matter & Company. During the panic of 1857 the Winchester Brothers made overtures to C. C. Comstock to take their plant off their hands, which change was made September 15, 1857, and the business was carried on by him until October 8, 1863. During this time Mr. Comstock had established a branch house in Peoria, Ill., and opened a fair wholesale trade in Chicago and Milwaukee markets; also had made a complete revolution in the manner of introducing and selling furniture and cabinet wares to the trade. Prior to 1862, the manufacturer peddled his wares by chartering one or more cars, loading up his goods and starting out or sending an agent with them on the road. Stopping at stations where business was expected or where he was desirous of opening trade, the car would be side-tracked, local dealers shown the articles for sale, and their orders filled as soon as convenient. But as the country became more densely settled, and the variety of styles increased, there came a demand for a cheaper way of introducing the goods. They could not be packed in a trunk and carried about in search of patronage; yet the styles of wares and their looks must be shown. This made it necessary for the salesman to be a fair artist, and illustrate his description by pencil sketches. In the spring of 1862 Elias Matter conceived the idea that if the pencil would show what the articles were, a picture from the camera would do it easier and better. Mr. Comstock followed his suggestion, and now nearly every large factory has its pnotograph gallery as part of the needed machinery of the establishment. In 1863 Mr. Comstock disposed of a half interest in the business to James M. and Ezra T. Nelson, and on October 8, the firm name was changed to Comstock, Nelson & Co. In August, 1865, Manly G. Colson, foreman in the factory, and James A. Pugh, foreman of the finishing department, each purchased an eighth interest of Mr. Comstock, who disposed of the remaining quarter to his son, Tileston A. Comstock, and the name was again changed to Nelson, Comstock & Co. April 16, 1870, the Comstock interest was purchased by Elias Matter, and the firm became Nelson. Matter & Company; composed of James M. Nelson, Mh U N S E L I X C: N y NELSON, MATTER & COMPANY-EZRA T. NELSON. 463 Ezra T. Nelson, Elias Matter, Manly G. Colson and James A. Pugh. September 5, 1870, Mr. Pugh died, but his estate carried on his interest until June 7, 1872, when it was purchased by the firm. Mr. Colson died October i6, i87I, and May 9, 1872, his interest was purchased by Stephen S. Gay. The next change in partners was June Io, 1878, when James G. MacBride and Jay D. Utley were admitted members, each buying one-third of Ezra T. Nelson's share. March i, I880, Ezra T. Nelson, James G. MacBride and Jay D. Utley. purchased Mr. Gay's interest and he retired from the firm. James M. Nelson, the senior member, died January I8, 1883, but his interest in the firm was retained by his heirs until March 8, 1887, at which time, having withstood the vicissitudes of fickle fortune for thirtytwo years, during which its progress, though slow and uphill work at first, had resulted in a large and substantial business, the institution became incorporated with a capital stock of $250,000, held by members of the old company and those who for years had been their faithful and trusted employes, and who, either in the factory as skilled workmen or in the office, had done their part toward placing the firm in its strong position. The officers of the new corporation were Ezra T. Nelson, President; Elias Matter, Vice President; James G. MacBride, Secretary; Jay D. Utley, Treasurer. In I868 the company erected a building on Canal street for retail show rooms and offices, three stories and basement, 54 feet front on Canal and 80 feet deep. In 1873 the factory on the corner of Lyon, west of Lock street, was added, together with boiler, engine house and dry kilns in the rear; the former supplied with two sevenfoot marine boilers and an engine of 150 horse power. November 27, 1887, the warehouse, salesroom, office and finishing rooms on Lyon street were destroyed by fire, and it became a necessity to replace them with another edifice. The company at once erected a structure which they occcpied in the fall of I888, then the largest building of the kind in the State outside of Detroit. Facing on Lyon street with 68 feet frontage, it extends on Lock to Huron street, i60 feet in length. It is seven stories high, besides basement 82 feet deep and a photograph gallery on the roof, and is built of brick and sandstone, with terra cotta ornaments and galvanized iron cornices. The floors throughout are solid, of 2 by 6 inch pine, laid edgewise and covered with inch flooring of maple, making practically a fire proof barrier between each two stories These floors are supported by iron columns in the basement, and by oak columns above on the inside. The ceilings are thirteen feet high in the first, eleven in the next five, and sixteen sloping to thirteen and one-half feet in the top story. The upper stories are reached by two stairways, one at either end of the building, and an elevator on the west side, each enclosed with brick walls, and all openings in them provided with automatic iron doors for protection in case of fire. The photograph gallery on the roof is also reached by the elevator. The annual output of this establishment is about $750,000, distributed all over the United States, with a fair trade in foreign countries. The product includes, besides the regular lines of furniture, specialties in chamber suits, side boards, book-cases, chiffoniers and fine tables. They have ten traveling' representatives. The manufacture keeps 450 to 500 employes, skilled workmen and others, constantly busy, and calls for a monthly pay roll of $I8,ooo or more. Branch offices and warerooms are situated at 22 East I8th street, New York City, and at 267-269 Wabash avenue, Chicago. EZRA. T. NELSON, President of the Nelson, Matter & Company furniture corporation, was born in Milford, Massachusetts, May 9, I824. He came of good old New England stock; his mother's maiden name being Mary Parkhurst of Milford, and his father Capt. Ezra Nelson, who won honor and prominence for himself in the war of I812. Of his father, the town history says: "He was Captain of the once famous Milford Artillery Company, in his time honored with various official trusts by his fellow-men, and universally respected as a worthy man." Mr. Nelson's early life was spent in his native State; first on the homestead and at the village school, then at the academies of Framingham and Cambridgeport, and later as clerk in the wholesale dry goods establishment of S. F. Morse & Co., of Boston, where he remained two years. These years of h;- boyhood included 464 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. a visit of some months to his brothers at Grand Rapids, Michigan, which stimulated an already strong desire to see more of pioneer life for himself, and in 1842 he turned his face westward. After a trial during the following two years of Chicago, St. Louis, Cincinnati and Columbus, he decided upon Grand Rapids as the place in which to cast his fortune. The town had scarce reached its twelfth year from settlement when, in I844, Mr. Nelson entered business life here as clerk in the store of Henry R. Williams. After two years in this position he resigned it to join a party composed of J. Mortimer Smith, Edmund B. Bostwick and Damon Hatch, in search of adventure and copper in the Lake Superior region. He has pleasant memories of the journey from Detroit by steamer to Sault Ste. Marie, thence by schooner to Copper Harbor, of the exploration of the shores and streams in small boats, and the return, after four months, on the first steamer that ever plowed the waters of Lake Superior, though the expedition resulted only in the location of a few mines which were never developed. Returning to Grand Rapids, Mr. Nelson entered mercantile life, in which, in various branches, he remained until, in I863, he embarked in the business into which he was to put his best energies, and the building up of which was to be his prominent life work. The furniture establishment of Nelson, Matter & Co., is one of the three great ones in this place manufacturing exclusively fine furniture, and of the many which make Grand Rapids the greatest furniture center in the world. Their annual sales have increased, since Mr. Nelson entered the company, from $20,000 to more than three quarters of a million dollars annually, and their goods are shipped to all countries. Of the firm Mr. Nelson is President, senior member and principal stockholder. In politics he is a stanch Republican. In his earlier years offices of trust were frequently tendered him, some of which he faithfully filled, but more often refused, though always alive to the interests of the city and proud of its high place and reputation among the cities of the West. Mr. Nelson married, October 9, 1848, Augusta M., daughter of Charles Valentine of Cambridgeport, Massachusetts. They have three daughters. As a man of sterling qualities of character, firm principle, recognized business ability and public spirit, Mr. Nelson stands high in the respect and estimation of his fellow-citizens. ELIAS MATTER was born in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, Oct. 6, 1833. His parents were natives of that county. When he was eight years old his father died, and he remained with his mother on the farm during the following three years. At eleven years of age he engaged to work on a farm for his board and clothing and three months' schooling in the winter. From 1850 to 1853 he served as an apprentice, learning the trade of chair and cabinet maker, in Uniontown, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, and was next employed for two years as clerk in a general assortment store in the same town. In February, I855, Mr. Matter went to Rochester, New York, where he worked in a chair factory until the following September. He then came to Grand Rapids; was clerk in a boot and shoe store until the spring of 1857; next attended school three months, and taught a district school during the following two winters. In I859 he entered the employ of C. C. Comstock, worked in the cabinet shop at piece-work some six months, and was then given the position of foreman. In the fall of I862 he left there and entered a copartnership with Julius Berkey, in the manufacture of furniture for the wholesale trade exclusively. In 1863 they sold an interest to William A. Berkey; in i866 George W. Gay also came into the firm, and together they continued the business until February, 1870, when Mr. Matter sold out to his partners. In April following he purchased the interest of Tileston A. Comstock in the furniture firm of Nelson, Comstock & Company, which then became Nelson, Matter & Company, now standing in the front rank of the heavy manufacturing houses of Grand Rapids. Mr. Matter married, August 17, i858, Anna, eldest daughter of Adam Toot, a farmer of Irving, Barry County, Michigan. Nine children have been born to them, of whom three sons and two daughters are living. The family are attendants at Park Congregational Church, of which Mrs. Matter is a member. Politically Mr. Matter is an adherent of the Democratic party. He is a member of De Molai Commandery, Knights Templar; also of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Matter is a representa ELIAS MATTER-BERKEY & GAY-WIDDICOMB FURNITURE COMPANY. 465 tive of the class who win success in business by steady and persistent effort and honorable dealing; has acquired a fair competence, and lives in a handsome residence at II2 Fountain street, a picture of which appears in this volume. BERKEY AND GAY FURNITURE COMPANY. In I859 Julius Berkey; with James Eggleston, in a small shop on Erie street, made sash, doors and blinds, under contract. Being a skillful mechanic, he also manufactured quartette stands, which sold readily. About this time William A. Berkey began the erection of a sash, door and blind factory on Mill street, opposite Hastings, and in the summer of 1860 Alphonso Ham and Julius Berkey were using a portion of the second floor of that building for furniture making. In the following winter Berkey sold his interest to his partner, who soon closed it out. In April, I86I, Mr. Berkey started in again at the same place, and continued the business alone till November, 1862; thus practically, though not foreseeing such an outcome perhaps, laying the foundation for that colossal institution, the Berkey & Gay Furniture Company's factory, which now stands among the leading furniture factories in the United States. In November, I862, Elias Matter, inventorying his tool chest at six dollars, and Julius Berkey with five dollars in cash and a few hundred dollars worth of machinery and materials, formed the partnership of Berkey & Matter, who turned their attention to manufacturing exclusively for the wholesale trade of Chicago and Milwaukee. October 5, 1863, Wm. A. Berkey took a half interest with the young firm, and it was changed to Berkey Bros. & Company, with a capital stock of $I7,215.33, including real estate and personal property, for the manufacture of sash, doors, blinds and furniture. In 1866 Geo. W. Gay purchased half the interest of Wm. A. Berkey and the firm name was again changed to Berkey Bros. & Gay. February 28, I870, Mr. Matter retired. In January, 1873, Wm. A. Berkey withdrew. The Berkey & Gay Furniture Company proper was incorporated in August, 1873, with a capital stock of $500,ooo and has been practically under the same management ever since its organization, the officers being: Julius Berkey, President; Geo. W. Gay, Treasurer; John 45 A. Covode, Secretary. Their office and salesrooms are at 174 to I80 Canal, on the corner of Hastings street. The factory proper in 1888 comprised three buildings; one ioo by 50 feet and four stories high; the other two three stories high, one 125 by 70 feet the other 80 by 40 feet, all containing the latest and most improved wood working machinery. The principal building, on the corner of Canal and Hastings, containing the offices, shipping departments, storing, finishing and show rooms, is a six story brick block, 75 by 220 feet in size. The property of the company may be said to cover the greater portion of three blocks as platted, the lumber yard and drykiln occupying one and the buildings the other two. Every provision is made for the comfort and safety of employes. Heated by steam and carefully guarded from accident, the entire works may be regarded as a model for their uses. The output of the company is from six to eight hundred thousan'd dollars annually, sent to all parts of the world; though from the class of goods manufactured, consisting of fine furniture in chamber, dining-room, hall and library suits, they naturally seek only the cream of the trade. They have an eastern salesroom, at No. 17 Elizabeth street, New York City. Four salaried and several commission men represent the company as salesmen; about 450 skilled workmen are kept constantly busy to satisfy the demand for their products; and to reward this force of labor some $20,000 is thrown into circulation each month. At this writing, 1889, the company are finishing a new factory building, largely on the site of the old, extending from Canal street across the canal, over Mill street, and to the river-in size I75 feet on Mill street, 195 feet on the river, 193 feet from front to rear, six stories high and basement, and containing nearly six acres of working space. Probably there is no larger manufacturing establishment of the kind in the world. WIDDICOMB FURNITURE COMPANY. Perhaps no factory in the city is more closely woven with family history and harmony than is that of the Widdicornb Furniture Company. The germ from which this institution grew was planted in 1858, in which year George Widdicomb, the father of four sturdy boys, started a modest little cabinet 466 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. shop and endeavored to contribute his share toward supplying the wants of the people. This was near the east end of Bridge street where now are the Valley City Milling Company's mills. George Widdicomb prospered in his undertaking to such an extent that he soon had about a dozen men in his employ and opened a large (for that time) retail store on the west side of Canal between Huron and Erie streets, with his sons in partnership, known by the sign as George Widdicomb & Sons; which continued until 1863. When the war of the Rebellion broke out, the first call of President Lincoln was responded to by William and George Jr. enlisting in the Volunteer Infantry, early in the summer of I86I. Harry went to the front in 1862 and John followed in 1863. In 1864 the oldest two boys came home and started a small shop near the foot of the East Side canal, doing all their own work. At the close of the war Harry and John returned and the four struggled on with little capital but a thorough knowledge of the business, in which they had all served an apprenticeship, and a determination to carve out success. Little by little their enterprise grew and one by one they increased the number of their workmen, until, in I868, they moved to their present place on the corner of Seward and Fourth streets, occupied a small frame building and gave employment to about twenty-five men. January i, 1869, T. F. Richards was admitted to partnership and the firm name changed to Widdicomb Bros. & Richards, composed of William, Harry and John Widdicomb (George having died in March, I866), and T. F. Richards. The capital was increased to $I2,000 and the building was raised and enlarged. The Widdicomb Furniture Company proper was organized December i, 1873, with the following officers: Wm. Widdicomb, President; T. F. Richards, Vice President; Harry Widdicomb, Secretary and Treasurer. The capital stock was $90,000, which from time to time has been increased until it has reached $380,000. At the time of incorporation the plant consisted of the original building 68 by go feet, and one three-story frame, 50 by I50 feet, built in 1871, and they had about I50 men on their pay roll, turning out in the neighborhood of $80,ooo worth of goods annually. The Widdicomb spindle bedsteads became known far and wide but they soon added other grades to meet the constantly growing demand. In 1*83 William Widdicomb retired from the company to enter the position of Cashier in the Grand Rapids National Bank; his careful methods as a business man having built up handsome fortunes and placed the establishment on a prosperous and profitable footing. In 1879 a five-story brick building I04 feet square was added, and in i886 another 68 by I28 feet, until the plant consists of these: Warehouse No. i, a' three-and-a half-story frame building for storage purposes. Warehouse No. 2, a three-story frame also for storage. The main factory, a five-story brick Ioo by 150 feet. Engine and boiler house with two 300-horse-power engines and six tubular boilers. Warehouse No. 3, four stories. A five-story brick block 68 by 128 feet for cabinet making and storage. A one-story shed I50 feet long for storage. A five-story brick building for cabinet making, finishing and show rooms. The buildings are supplied with iron standpipe, hose, automatic fire extinguishers and every possible protection against fire. The aggregate space of flooring in the building is 253,530 square feet and of ground space 64,750 square feet. There are also five dry kilns with a weekly capacity of a quarter of a million feet of lumber, and lumber yards covering nearly ten acres. Their lumber is obtained chiefly from tracts in the northern part of the State owned by the company and from which over seven million feet annually, of oak, asl, birch and maple lumber is cut for the manufacture of their goods; giving employment to some six hundred men, drawing about $20,000 per month. The annual output averages about $700,000. Shipments are made direct from the factory, but for the convenience of patrons they have an Eastern agency at No. 17 Elizabeth street, New York, and a Western agency at No. 267 Wabash avenue, Chicago. This is probably the largest factory in the world manufacturing bedroom furniture exclusively; the specialties being chamber suits, chiffoniers, bedsteads and bedroom furniture in quartered oak, ash, birch and maple. Officers of the company (1889): President, Harry Widdicomb; Vice President, T. F. Richards; Secretary and Treasurer, John Widdicomb. KENT FURNITURE COMPANY-PHOENIX FURNITURE COMPANY. 467 KENT FURNITURE COMPANY. The Kent Furniture Company was organized in January, i880, with a capital stock of $ioo,ooo-L. H. Randall, President; J. H. Wonderly, Vice President; E. C. Allen, Secretary and General Manager, R. N. Wolcott, Treasurer. The working department was organized with Franklin Holland, Superintendent, and a force of forty men, and commenced manufacturing a line chiefly of sideboards and center tables, especially painted and ornamented goods, for cottage furniture. Their factory occupies an entire block on North Front street near the north city line, and is equipped with the latest improved machinery. It consists of a fourstory frame warehouse for shipping and finishing; oil house; large dry kilns; boiler house; engine room; main factory, two-anda-half-story frame, ioo by IIO feet in its average, and one two-story addition with offices. The product of the firm is chiefly hard wood furniture of medium priced and cheap grades, imitations of walnut, mahogany, cherry and other expensive woods, and includes specialties in bedroom suits, chiffoniers, sideboards, tables and other articles of tasteful and artistic design. The lumber, received on a side track from the railroad, is loaded on trucks and without being again handled goes to the dry kilns and from thence to each department of the factory on tracks laid for the purpose. Their battery of boilers consists of three tubular boilers of Ioo-horse-power each, and( one marine boiler of 300-horse-power, manufactured at Ferrysburg, Michigan. A 300 -horse-power, fixed, cut-off engine furnishes the motive power. The works are lighted by incandescent lamps. Their own artesian well on the premises not only supplies the factory but the neighborhood with excellent water. On their pay roll are 200 employes, receiving some $7,000 monthly, and their annual output of about $275,000 is distributed all over the United States and Canada. Three traveling salesmen look after their interests with the trade. Officers (1889): J. H. Wonderly, President; J. P. Creque, Vice President and General Manager; R. N. Wolcott, Secretary and Treasurer. The plant, including three lumber yards on Webster, Turner and Scribner streets, covers nearly twelve acres. Factory at 674 to 700 North Front street. THE PH(ENIX FURNITURE COMPANY. In i868 William -A. Berkey was made assignee for Atkins & Soule, cabinet makers. In 1870 the premises were purchased by parties who organized the Phoenix Manufacturing Company, with a capital limited to $ioo, ooo-President, Wm. A. Berkey; Treasurer, Nelson W. Northrop; Secretary, Frank McWhorter. For several years they did business in a small way at the corner of Ottawa and Fairbanks streets, in the manufacture of miscellaneous furniture. Mr. Berkey retired from the firm of Berkey Bros. & Gay, January I, 1873, and devoted his energies to building up the new company which had been reorganized as the Phoenix Furniture Company, with a capital stock of $200,000, to be increased as circumstances should render advisable. The officers were: Wm. A. Berkey, President; Wm. A. Howard, Vice President; L. D. Norris, Secretary. W. D. Talford, Treasurer. In the fall of 1872 ground had been broken for the erection of a factory on a tract of about eight acres, at the corner of West Fulton and Summer streets, and the company in 1873 moved into the new quarters, which, with additions made in I875, I88o and 1883, cover over 700,000 square feet of floor space. The main buildings are of brick, with lumber sheds, freight houses and yards attached, filled with all kinds of lumber needed in their work. The company have prospered until from Ioo they have increased their force to an average of 550 men, with a monthly pay roll of near $i8,ooo. Their products, consisting of the finest grades of chamber suits, folding beds, book cases, dining tables and heavy office furniture, go to every portion of the country and aggregate about $700, ooo annually. In connection with their factory they have a large show room where an elaborate display of their goods is made. Present paid up capital, $500,000oo. Officers (1889): President, James W. Converse; Vice President, Frank Smith; Secretary and Treasurer, R. W. Merrill; Designer, D. W. Kendall; Directors, J. W. Converse, C. G. Swensberg, D. W. Talford, R. W. Merrill, Adolph Leitelt, Frank Smith, D. W. Kendall. This mammoth institution has had a very successful career. Commenced shortly before the financial crisis of 1874, its managers weathered the storm, 468 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS and now it stands among the first in the city if not in the country. It has also a suit of salesrooms in the Blodgett block, corner of Louis and Ottawa streets, as handsome and capacious as any in the land. WM. A. BERKEY FURNITURE CO. On severing his connection with the Phcenix Furniture Company in 1879, Wm. A. Berkey retired from active participation in the furniture trade, with which he had been connected since 1863, but in the spring of 1882, he opened a factory for himself on the corner of Campau and Louis streets, where he made a specialty of the manufacture of fine and medium grade wood-top center tables, in which he continued until January, I885, when he organized the Wm. A. Berkey Furniture Company, with a capital stock of $85,000, the following being the officers: Wm. A. Berkey, President; Wm. H. Jones, Vice President; Lewis T. Peck, Secretary and Treasurer. The company have their office and salesroom at 39 to 41 North Waterloo street, and the factory in the same building, being a three-story brick block II8 by 125 feet. They give employment to about 140 men, with a monthly pay roll of not far from $6,000. In.addition to the goods mentioned above the company carry a large general assortment for the retail trade, in which they make a specialty of fine parlor work. The annual output, about $i50,ooo, is sold mostly by commission, going to nearly all parts of the United States. WILLIAM A. BERKEY, furniture manufacturer, is a native of Perry County, Ohio, born April 12, 1823. His early educational advantages were moderate, chiefly those afforded by the common dis trict schools. In 1844 he began work at the trade of carpenter and joiner. In 1848 he went to Tiffin, Ohio, and engaged in the manufacture of doors and sash. From there he came to Grand Rapids, Michigan, in I855, starting here in similar business. His change to the furniture trade and his career therein are substantially outlined in the history of the manufacturing establishments with which he has been connected, related in this chapter. Mr. Berkey married, in 1848, Mary Springer, of Seneca County, Ohio, who is still his life partner. From his youth up he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he was a Republican for many years, and subsequently became an adherent of the Greenback party, by which in 1876, he was tendered a nomination for Representative in the State Legislature, but declined to run. About that time he had been giving much attention to the study of finance, and in 1876 published a volume of 384 pages, entitled "The Money Question," of which three editions were issued. Mr. Berkey is a genial neighbor, an exemplary citizen, always a busy man, enterprising and still in active business, in which he has been fairly successful. WORDEN FURNI URE COMPANY. This is a copartnership, dating from 1882, between Adelbert E. Worden and Henry Fralick, with a capital of $50,000, afterward increased to $75,000, the present estimated value of their plant, The factory and grounds are on the west side of the river near the end of the C. & W. M. Ry. bridge, covering twelve lots on South Front, Earl and Talford streets. The building is a five-floor brick and wooden structure, 50 by I50 feet, and represents about half the space used by the company. They manufacture chamber suits in ash and maple only. Beginning operations in 1882 with thirty-five men, they now have near 150 on their pay roll, receiving about $5,ooo monthly. Nearly every prominent city in the union contributes to their list of patrons, The total sales for the first year were less than $30,ooo, while their operations for I888 foot up nearly or quite $I50,000. SCHOOL AND OFFICE FURNITURE. January 5, i886, a partnership was formed between Gaius W. Perkins, William T. Hess 'and Seymour W. Peregrine, and a factory was started by them on the corner of Prescott and Ionia streets, for the manufacture of school and office furniture. May 8, 1887, Gaius W. Perkins, President; S. W. Peregrine, Vice President; Wm. T. Hess, Treasurer, and Charles J. Reed, Secretary, incorporated the Grand Rapids School Furniture Company, with a capital stock of $Ioo,ooo. Early in i888 they purchased seven acres of land on the West Side and erected a new factory into which they moved August I, i888. Their plant, on Broadway, between Ninth and Tenth / / '%^!/&^~~~~~~~~~~C SCHOOL FURNITURE-ORNAMENTS-FANCY WARE-BEDSTEADS. 469 streets, comprises all needed buildings and machinery, and furnishes about 70,000 square feet of working space. They have five men traveling to represent their interests, and ship $400,000 worth of products annually to all parts of the Union; manufacturing exclusively school and office furniture and church and hall seating. They employ about 300 hands, at a monthly expense of not far from $12,000. They manufacture complete all the work that they turn out. Lately they have added $50,000 to the paid-in capital stock. Another establishment doing a promising business in making school furniture and kindred articles is that of the Haney Manufacturing Company, at 270 North Front street-Elijah Haney, President; George M. Haney Secretary and Treasurer. FURNITURE ORNAMENTS. The Waddell Manufacturing Company began on Mill street, as John Waddell & Company, in June, 1879, B. Meilink being the copartner. April 12, 1880, Geo. Waddell purchased Mr. Meilink's interest. September 6, i880, W. E. Hunting was admitted to partnership, and the name changed to the Waddell Manufacturing Company. April 22, I881, the Waddell Brothers bought out Mr. Hunting's interest and continued the business until, September 6, 1882, E. J. Aldworth came into the firm and they purchased the old hotel property on the corner of Coldbrook and Taylor streets, where they are now located. January 5, I888; the company was incorporated with the following officers: J. Waddell, President; G. Waddell, Vice President and Manager; E. J. Aldworth, Secretary and Treasurer. Capital stock, $30,000. They employ some thirty-five hands at an average monthly pay of $I,200. Their product is exclusively furniture ornaments; their trade extending to furniture manufacturers in all parts of the United States, also in Canada, Great Britain and Ireland; the average annual output being about $30,000. They work with machinery of their own adaptation. FANCY CABINET WARE. The Oriel Cabinet Company is the only one in Grand Rapids manufacturing fancy cabinet ware exclusively; making nearly one thousand different designs, new ones being constantly added and old ones dropped, keeping the designers busy the year round getting out novelties; and it is probably the leading manufacturer of fancy and art furniture in the world. The company was incorporated October 30, i880, with a capital stock of $ioo,ooo. It employs some 200 workmen, at an average monthly wage cost of about $8,000. It occupies three large buildings, with a dry kiln having a capacity of about 50,000 feet. Traveling men push its wares to every part of the country. Geo. W. Gay, President; E. F. Sweet, Vice President; Chas. W. Black, Secretary, Treasurer and General Manager. The factory, at 420 to 436 Canal street, was totally destroyed by fire May i6, I890; loss about $125,000. BEDSTEAD FACTORY. The Grand Rapids Furniture Company was organized January I, I877, with a capital stock of $ Io, ooo, which has been increased to $52,000. The incorporators were J. C. More, A. More and L. C. Stow. When the company started they erected a threestory frame factory on Butterworth avenue, which was destroyed by fire April 21, 1883, and at once replaced with substantial onestory brick buildings. The dry kilns have a capacity of 60,000oo feet of lumber. They operate a 200-horse-power engine and three tubular boilers. Their pay roll calls for about $2,500 each month, which is distributed among nearly Ioo employes. This is claimed to be the largest exclusive bedstead factory in the world, and perhaps is the only one that uses nothing but hard maple in the construction of bedsteads, finished in the natural color of the wood or in imitation of walnut, mahogany and cherry. The plant covers some five acres. The annual output is about $ioo0ooo. The officers are J. C. More, President; L. C. Stow, Secretary and Treasurer. Out of this industry has grown the firm of More & Stow, lumber manufacturers, at Mancelona, who furnish the lumber required by the Grand Rapids Company, their product averaging about 2,000,000 feet annually. STOW & DAVIS. In I88i a copartnership was formed between Russell J. Stow and Thomas D. Haight for the manufacture of tables. In October George A. Davis purchased Mr. 470 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Haight's interest, from which time the firm have been known as Stow & Davis. Starting for the exclusive manufacture of common extension and kitchen tables, with a capital of $2,400, they now manufacture all kinds of tables, making a specialty, however, of extra fine pillar tables, employing a capital of $48,000. Their monthly pay roll of about $r,500 makes forty or fifty employes happy. The plant consists of two frame factories, with a brick dry kiln, having a capacity of 25,000 feet of lumber. Their annual output of about $60,000 is sold on commission, and distributed all over the Union, with the exception, perhaps, of two or three eastern States. The factory is on South Front at the foot of Watson street. THE SLIGH COMPANY. The Sligh Furniture Company, on Buchanan street near Wealthy avenue, manufacture a line of medium priced chamber furniture, and sideboards, in walnut, oak, ash and cherry. The company was organized February 24, i880, with an authorized capital stock of $ioo,ooo, of which only $I8,500 was paid in. The plant covers about four acres, and has about 6,200 square feet of floor room. It furnishes work and subsistence to some 175 employes. The monthly pay roll is estimated at about $5,000 and the annual output at $120,000. Lewis E. Hawkins is President of the company, and Charles R. Sligh, Vice President. CLARK & HODGES FURNITURE COMIPANY. This was organized in August, 1887, with a capital stock of $I5,ooo; President, Marsden C. Burch; Vice President, Berend DeGraaf, Jr.; Secretary and Treasurer, John P. Finegan. The factory is at 286 and 288 Canal street. Beginning with sixteen workmen, they now employ about fifty, with a pay roll of some $I,500 per month, turning out an annual product of about $40,000. They make a specialty of fine center-tables, pedestals and hall-trees, which are disposed of to the trade through commission salesmen. To run their machinery, a thirty-five horse-power engine is used. COTTAGE FURNITURE. The New England Furniture Company was organized in April, I88I, by E. Ward, H. C. Brooks, Elias Skinner, O. A. Ward, W. S. Emery, and H. M. Amsden, with a capital stock of $ioo,ooo. The principal line of their manufacture is decorated cottage furniture. Annual output, $I75,000. The finishing and storage building is of wood, five stories high. The factory is a four-story brick, 50 by IIo feet. The lumber yard and dry kilns cover a space of 120 by 350 feet. They employ I50 men at an average pay of $4,500 monthly. The line of their goods runs from cheap to extra medium in the latest styles, both of cottage furniture and of center tables. The factory is at 240 to 250 Canal street. President, Henry C. Brooks; Secretary and Treasurer, Orin A. Ward. DRESSING CASES. Specialties in furniture sometimes seem to be like wheels within wheels. Such is the case, apparently, with the business of the American Patent Dressing Case Company; incorporated in March, i886, by Israel C. Smith, President; Joseph Penney, Secretary, and James C. Darragh, Vice President and Treasurer, with a capital stock of $30,000. It was organized for the purpose of manufacturing patented articles in furniture, such as dressing cases, sanitary washstands and other similar products. They gather the various parts and materials and have them put together under contract by some furniture factory, at present. The sales amount to about $30,000 annually. The officers are: President, Joseph Penney; Vice President, C. W. Watkins; Secretary and Treasurer, George G. Clay. NEWAYGO FURNITURE COMPANY. The Newaygo Furniture Company was organized in i880, with a capital stock of $5o,ooo —A. J. Daniels, President; Henry Spring, Vice President; W. D. Stevens, Secretary. The office of the company was in Grand Rapids, but the factory was at Newaygo. In I885 the Stockwell & Darragh Furniture Company stock was purchased by the Newaygo Company. April 23, 1887, D. D. Irwin, of Muskegon, was appointed Receiver, and the plant placed in his possession to run the business and pay off certain mortgages. Subsequently the entire property changed ownership, and in I889 the business was merged in that of the Converse Manufacturing Company, with office headquarters in this city. It had reached an output of some $80, ooo annually. VARIOUS HOUSE FURNISHING SPECIALTIES. 471 THE CONVERSE MANUFACTURING COMPANY. James W. Converse, of Boston, had acquired the stock and business properties of the Newaygo Furniture Company and the Newaygo Manufacturing Company, and on September 17, 1889, was organized the Converse Manufacturing Company, in which were consolidated those two Newaygo establishments, and the clothespin factory on the West Side in Grand Rapids, that had been operated by D. P. Clay, with the following officers: President, J. W. Converse; Vice President, Costello C. Converse; Secretary, William McBain; Treasurer and General Manager, I. C. Smith. Thus are brought together several large and prominent manufacturing enterprises, in which Mr. Converse previously held the chief financial interests. At Newaygo are ope rated two sawmills, a gristmill, a tub and pail factory, a planing mill, a sash, door and blind factory, a furniture factory and a general store, to which are added the clothespin manufacture and other important industries in Grand Rapids. The capital stock is $50,000oo while the business and properties represent a total investment of about $300,000. CROCKETT & HOPPINS. Crockett & Hoppins, manufacturers and wholesale and retail furniture dealers, 17 Canal and 42 West Leonard street, carry a line of furniture in which they make a specialty of ordered work. They also do considerable work in reupholstering, refinishing and refitting. The business was established in 1885, by S. L. Crockett and E. J. Hoppins. The capital invested is about $30,000, with an annual output of $60,ooo. In their employ (1889) are fourteen hands, with an average monthly pay roll of $600. FOLDING BED FACTORY. The Welch Folding Bed Company is perhaps the largest, if not the only, manufactory in the United States whose product is exclusively folding beds. The company was organized December 6, i886, as a copartnership between L. W. Welch and W. S. Earle. The salesroom and main offices are at Grand Rapids, but the factory proper is at Sparta, Kent county, and, with shipping warehouse, covers 45,000 square feet of floor space, with lumber yards of about ten acres adjoining, giving employment to Ioo hands, whose earnings place about $4,000 per month in circulation. Their product, consisting of the Welch patent folding bed (combining six articles of furniture in one), amounts to about $ 50,000 annually, with an investment of $70,000 capital. BED LOUNGES. Among the many smaller factories engaged in some special product, is that of F. E. Morris, who in May, i888, patented a bed lounge, and, working by himself with only a capital of $500 to commence with, manufactures for the retail trade, doing a business of about $500 per month. His shop is at 112 South Division street. CENTER TABLES AND PEDESTALS. The Valley City Table Company, 53 and 55 South Front street, engaged in the manufacture of fine center tables and pedestals, was incorporated with a capital stock of $8,ooo in January, i888, by G. H. Clark and L. N. Hodges. Their factory is a threestory building, 80 by Ioo feet, in which twenty-one men and boys are kept busy manufacturing, for the wholesale trade only, fine center tables and office desks, at an average monthly pay of about $500. They have made shipments as far west as Los Angeles, Cal., and east to New York and Philadelphia. The annual output is estimated at $io,ooo. Mr. Clark is said to have been the first to introduce machine carving into the furniture business in Grand Rapids. REFRIGERATORS. The Grand Rapids Refrigerator Company is a branch of H. Leonard & Sons' crockery and house furnishing goods establishment. In 1883 they saw a chance for improvement in the construction of refrigerators, and, patenting their improvements, invested a capital of $I50.ooo, and commenced the manufacture of their goods, at first in a small way, but now their capacity is upward of a hundred refrigerators daily, giving employment to one hundred and twenty-five men. Their improvement consists of interior walls made removable for cleanliness, air tight locks and solid iron shelves, with an interior construction providing for the preservation 472 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. of ice. Theirs is the only factory of this sort in the State. Their output of some $200,000 annuall- is distributed in all parts of the world. PATENT TRIPODS AND EASELS The Universal Tripod Company was started in June, 1887, as a copartnership between Julius and C. H. Berkey, the former having invented a tripod on which the company secured letters patent in that year. At first they manufactured tripods only, but gradually worked into several other kinds of furniture, including light tables and easels. Their factory covers 40,000 square feet of working space, in which are eighty men, whose monthly pay amounts to about $2,800, and who produce annually near $60,000 worth of goods. TABLE MANUFACTORY. The Folding Chair and Table Company was organized October 25, I88i, with a capital stock of $50,000, and was incorporated.by Wm. H. Washer, President; J. F. Homan, Vice President; A. J. Davidson, Secretary, and J. H. Frey, Treasurer. They began at No. 8 Pearl street, where they remained until 1883, when they moved to the corner of South Ionia street and Wealthy avenue, their building being three stories 48 by Ioo feet. In 1887 they added a three-story frame 129 by 24 feet. Starting with ten, they now employ sixty-five men, and the monthly pay roll is some $2,500. Annual output about $70,000. Having gradually worked out of the chair business, they give special attention to the manufactureof tables. Officers (1889): W. B. Remington, President; A. J. Davidson, Secretary and Treasurer; W. H. Washer, Manager and Superintendent. M'CORD & BRADFIELD WORKS. The McCord & Bradfield Furniture Company was organized December 29, I879, with a capital stock of $I5o,ooo, by T. M. McCord, F. R. Luce and John Bradfield. They manufacture chamber suits and folding tables, of which their annual output is $425,000, giving employment to 280 men, and requiring monthly nearly $ o, ooo to pay them off. Their plant is at 508 Canal and 594 Ottawa street. Their goods are sent to all parts of the world, and four men look after their interests as traveling agents. The officers are: President, R. C. Luce; Vice President, Chas. Shepard; Secretary and Treasurer, F. R. Luce. The Company have purchased (in 1889) a site for a new factory, below the gas works and near the railroad track, and are erecting a building thereon to cover about five acres of ground. THE PENINSULAR. The Peninsular Furniture Company was incorporated in July, 1883, with a capital stock of $25,000. Their plant consists of a factory on Canal street, warehouse and offices on the corner of Ottawa and Fairbanks, and a warehouse on the corner of Kent and Newberry streets. They employ fifty-four men, which costs them about $2,000 monthly. The annual output is nearly $75,000. Their principal products are ash and imitation mahogany and walnut sets, and hardwood bedsteads. Officers (I889): A. B. Knowlson, President; Wm. Green, Vice President; Joseph Horner, Secretary and Treasurer. Z. E. ALLEN FURNITURE FACTORY. Z. E. Allen opened a factory at 44 Mill street in January, 1883, for the manufacture of tables, carpet sweepers and patent folding chairs, with an investment of about $6, ooo. In the summer of I 885 he increased his business, and began the production of chamber suits, of which he now makes a speciality in cheap and medium grades. The shipments are mostly west and south. The establishment gives employment to an average of thirty men-monthly pay about $I,ooo. Output about $35,000 per annum. The stock investment is $20,000. MANUFACTURE OF VENEERS. The Grand Rapids Veneer Works are the practical outgrowth of several attempts and experiments in the manufacture of thin woods. 'In August, 1882, the Grand Rapids Veneer and Panel Company was organized with a capital of $30,000, but being a new enterprise it was not successful. After about two years it was superseded by the A. B. Watson Veneer and Panel Company. In January, i886, the Grand Rapids Veneer Works were incorporated, with a capital stock of $30,000, purchasing the entire plant of the A. B. Watson Veneer and Panel Company, with the following official board: A. B. Watson, President; Cyrus VENEERS-CASTERS-CARPET SWEEPERS. 473 E. Perkins, Vice President; C. B. Judd, Secretary and Treasurer; Z. Clark Thwing, General Manager. Formerly thin veneers were cut in flat sheets through the grain by circular saws, and the product was limited to the comparatively small quantity used in the furniture trade mostly. By the special machinery now used are produced veneers and panels of native woods, used in all sorts of wood work where it is necessary to combine strength with lightness. The log, after being thoroughly seasoned, is sawed to the right length and steamed soft. It is then centered to rotate in front of a heavy knife, which cuts a smooth and continuous sheet of veneer, ranging in thickness from four to one hundred and fifty sheets to the inch, and in width up to ten feet four inches. They have the only machine used exclusively for cutting heavy stock-the half-inch sheet which it produces being used for such work as cutter stock, tops of children's sleighs, and road cart or carriage bottoms -and, being cut with the grain of the wood, this possesses strength that is unattainable in sawed work; hence there is a demand for it beyond their capacity to manufacture. In panel stock, of every three sheets, one is run through gluing rollers and placed between the other two crosswise of the grain; after being subjected to an immense pressure until thoroughly set, this is finished and sent out to the customer much stronger than if of one solid piece. The product of this factory, amounting to $60,ooo a year, is sent to all parts of the world. The work gives employment to some sixty men whose services cost the company upward of $2,000 monthly. The factory is by the river bank on North Front street, between Eighth and Tenth. CASTER MAKING. The Furniture Caster Association was incorporated May 26, I886, with an authorized capital stock of $90, ooo-Wilder D. Stevens, President; Melville R. Bissell, Vice President; George G. Whitworth, Secretary and Treasurer-for the purpose of manufacturing and dealing in the Fox Patent Track Plate, Automatic Spring Caster Socket and Removable Casters. This is a Grand Rapids invention, arising out of the demand of the furniture trade for something that was an improvement on the old way of castering. The importance of 46 the invention may be judged from a description. A socket of malleable iron, provided with a tempered steel spring, is surrounded by a toothed ferrule, or shield holding the several parts in place, preventing the foot or post from splitting and the corners from breaking. The caster has an enlargement or head at the upper end of the shank, over which the spring in the socket slips, holding it in place when lifted from the floor, and yet it is easily removed by a slight pull, in which case the track plates prevent breakage of furniture by sliding over the floors of warehouses. It further permits the manufacturer to caster goods in the factory, while in the process of construction, thus doing the work much cheaper and better. The enterprise is yet in its infancy, but gives promise of healthy growth and holds a leading place among the many specialties peculiar to Grand Rapids. ASSOCIATED FURNITURE MAKERS. The Grand Rapids Furniture Manufacturers' Association was organized June. 3, I88r, for the purpose of promoting the mutual interests of the manufacturers and dealers in furniture and kindred branches of business, by securing just and equitable rates of transportation and insurance, giving particular attention to trade matters, and insolvent and dishonest dealers, for the mutual benefit and protection of all the members interested. The first officers were: Elias Matter, President; T. F. Richards, Vice President; J. C. Darragh, Secretary, and T. M. McCord, Treasurer. August 9, I886, the Furniture Manufacturers' Association of the United States was organized with office at 62 Bowery, New York, for the purpose of giving those interested information in reference to labor troubles or strikes, and securing co-operation with local associations, and enabling manufacturers to act unitedly whenever desired. The office of the Grand Rapids Association is at 13 Canal street. Officers (I888): John A. Covode, President; John Widdicomb, VicePresident; E. H. Foote, Treasurer; H. D. C. Van Asmus, Secretary; Robert P. Lyon, Credit Manager; the latter being the Credit Manager at New York of the National Association. BISSELL CARPET SWEEPERS. Melville R. Bissell started the manufacture of carpet sweepers in 1876; conceiving 474 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS the idea of a central bearing brush adapting itself to any irregularities of surface, on which he procured letters patent. He made several improvements on the original and conducted the business himself up to 1883, working up a large trade, reaching every State in the Union and many foreign countries. He found that with the increase of the business, it was advisable to associate with himself other active men, and for that purpose placed the enterprise in a stock company, which was incorporated in February, 1883, as the Bissell Carpet Sweeper Company, with a capital stock of $150,000, the officers being: M. R. Bissell, President; C. B. Judd, Vice-President; J. W. Stone, Secretary; M. Shanahan, Treasurer. Since the date of this organization its manufacture has continually increased, notwithstanding a fire destroyed the entire plant the next year after the company was formed, and it has grown to be the largest and only exclusive establishment of its kind in the world. The original invention of Mr. Bissell has been improved upon until the company are manufacturing thirty styles of sweepers under seventy-five different patents, all originating with its members. They employ 250 hands, with a monthly pay-roll of about $7,000. The annual sales amount in round numbers to about $400,000. In 1883, on the organization of the company, their buildings were: A main factory on the west side of Mill street, five stories and basement, which was destroyed by fire March 12, 1884, and at once replaced by another of four. stories and basement, 175 by 44 feet. In i885 they erected a sixstory brick building on the opposite side of the street, in which are the general offices, shipping department, decorating and other rooms. The buildings are of solid brick walls with stand pipe and line of hose to each floor, and iron doors separating the rooms, making the precautions against fire as near perfect as they could devise. The company also have a branch store and warehouse at 103 Chambers street, New York, under the management of T. W. Williams, where they furnish sweepers for the supply of the trade in the Eastern portion of the United States, the British Provinces, and other foreign countries. The officers of the company are the same as at organization, except that the offices of VicePresident and Secretary have been consoli dated, and the position is held by C. B. Judd. In 1886-87, they purchased adjoining property east and north, including a three-story and basement brick building, and a commodious warehouse, together with sufficient water power to carry their now extensive plant, and are constantly adding brick structures and room, with more working machinery. [The President of this company, Melville R. Bissell, died March 15, I889 (since the above sketch was written), aged 45 years; and the office is filled by Mrs. Bissell.] The attaches of the Bissell Carpet Sweeper establishment have a mutual aid association, of which H. Decker is President, J. T. Alcott, Secretary, and John Shanahan, Treasurer. The object is to assist disabled and needy members, and to pay death losses. MELVILLE R. BISSELL, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was one of the many successful business men of whom our State and Nation may well feel proud. A brief review of his life exemplifies in a conspicuous manner the possibilities of an American citizen, no matter how obscure or limited the beginning may be, when the person is distinguished by the possession of strict integrity, ability and unflagging perseverence. Melville R. Bissell was born in Hartwick, Otsego County, New York, September 25, I843. His parents moved to the West in 1848 and settled at Racine, Wis., remaining there about three years, after which they moved to Berlin, in the same State. Mr. Bissell obtained his early education in the public schools of that place, and at the age of seventeen he left school and learned the baker's trade, which business he soon abandoned as not sufficiently remunerative. Mr. Bissell communicated to his father the disgust which he entertained for the baker business, and also signified his intention to leave Berlin in search of a location that would afford broader scope for the development of his native energy and enterprise. He gave his father the choice, however, to go himself in search of the desired location or he would start within forty-eight hours. The old gentleman, knowing the determination with which the boy pursued his purposes, concluded to gratify the youth, and immediately started on a tour of investigation. He visited several localities and finally stopped \ )\, N BIOGRAPHY OF MELVILLE R. BISSELL. 475 at Kalamazoo, Michigan, attracted by the busy and prosperous appearance of the town. This was in the year 1862. He sent at once for Melville, who realized what he could for their effects at an auction sale, preparatory to leaving. While engaged in the baker trade Mr. Bissell took advantage of leisure moments in the business by packing shingles for a lumber company. He allowed his earnings in this direction to accumulate, and when he called on the company for a settlement he found a balance of $i50 in his favor. With this amount of cash resource he reached Kalamazoo. After investigating the town and the various opportunities to engage in business, the father'and son together rented one side of a small store and put in a stock of groceries. The business prospered, and after some time they added crockery to their line, which addition also proved successful. They finally purchased the building in which they had been doing business, and in 1869 sold the same, realizing a handsome advance on the purchase price, and with the proceeds of the sale of the business came to Grand Rapids and embarked in the crockery trade with marked success. Mr. Bissell also speculated in real estate, realizing large profits. He owned various tracts of acre property in the Fourth and Fifth wards, which he platted and placed in the market with the skill and energy of a veteran real estate dealer. He pushed the real estate business with vigor until the panic of 1873 somewhat checked operations in real estate, and in the meantime he turned his attention to his other business. Among the house furnishing goods which Mr. Bissell handled in his store was the old-style carpet sweeper known as the "Welcome;" and on one occasion, when exhibiting this sweeper to a customer, his mechanical perception discovered a defect in the manner of adjusting the brush. He readily conceived a remedy for the defect, and securing the necessary material for the construction of the model to be forwarded to the patent office he commenced the manufacture of the first carpet sweeper embracing a central bearing brush. He had no difficulty in the patent office, as the idea was entirely new, and in 1876 his first patent was granted. He made various changes and improvements in the sweeper at a large expense, none of which gave him complete satisfac tion until he placed rubber tires on the iron wheels for the purpose of promoting friction on the brush roller. This improvement gave carpet sweepers the first prominent feature cf popularity, and from a luxury they became a necessity, and from that time the business has steadily and rapidly grown to its present proportions. In 1883 Mr. Bissell placed his sweeper business in a stock company, with a paid up capital of $I50,000, retaining two-thirds of the stock. In 1884 the plant of the Bissell Carpet Sweeper Company was entirely consumed by fire, which was a severe business reverse, but again the energy of Mr. Bissell proved equal to the occasion, and before the flames had completed their destruction, necessary material for the establishment of a plant was ordered; a place in which to do business while rebuilding, rented; and in one month the company commenced shipping goods. Eventually the factory was rebuilt and the manufacture of carpet sweepers energetically pushed until the business is, at the present time, the largest of its kind in the world. In i888 Mr. Bissell, who was an ardent admirer of a fine horse, established the Standard Stock Farm at Reeds Lake. He made it one of the choice and model institutions of the kind in the State, thoroughly equipped throughout and stocked with a well-selected and fine-bred class of horses. In 1865 Mr. Bissell married Miss Anna Sutherland, of De Pere, Wis., and it is safe to say that no happier union of man and wife could well be found. They had five children, four of whom are living. Mr. Bissell was a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and always took an active and leading part in its affairs, and was for many years a member of the Official Board. He also served for a number of years as Superintendent of the Sunday School. Mr. Bissell was conscientious in all that he did. No person had a more kind appreciation of the circumstances of those surrounding him than he. His actions bore testimony that he "did not live for himself alone, but for all others." Ever ready to patronize any worthy object of charity, large and numerous were the benefactions made from his substantial competence. In February, 1889, he bought the magnificent residence, No. 80 South College avenue, and was looking forward to its occupation as a home with the brightest 476 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. anticipations, a pleasure which he was never to realize. Shortly after the purchase he went to Lexington, Kentucky, to buy some stock for his farm. He contracted at the latter place a cold, which resulted in catarrhal pneumonia, from which he died on March 15, I889, surrounded by wife and children and those endeared to him in a business and social way. In his untimely death his family and the public sustained an irreparable loss. His early demise carries with it unusual elements of sadness. Only in the prime of life and just in the moment of victory, to be cut down and deprived of the enjoyments growing out of the use of his bountiful resources is a circumstance which must necessarily challenge profound sympathy and regret. His wife and four children survive him and reside in the family residence on College avenue, surrounded by the enjoyments of life which his industry, enterprise and business foresight provided for them. MAURICE SHANAHAN was born August 3, I848, in the village of Watertown, Canada. His parents were natives of Ireland. When he was three months old the family removed to Michigan, and settled on a farm at Columbus, St. Clair county. There he passed the days of his childhood and youth, working on the farm and having but the advantage of a small portion of the time for attendance at the common schools. Being ambitious to learn, however, he studied much by himself, and acquired a knowledge of some of the higher branches without the aid of preceptors, and constantly improved in general education by reading the works of the best writers on school studies and in popular literature. In 1872 he came to Grand Rapids as a delegate to the Democratic State Convention by which Austin Blair was nominated for Governor; and he liked the appearance of the town so well that he soon settled here for a permanent residence. Immediately after coming he took a course of commercial instruction in the business college of Prof. Swensberg. While there, M. R. Bissell visited the school to procure the services of some capable and trustworthy young man as bookkeeper, which resulted in the engagement of Mr. Shanahan for the place. This was in October, 1878, and from that time forward he retained the position at the Bissell Carpet Sweeper establishment of bookkeeper and confidential clerk of the proprietor, until the organization in 1883 of the Bissell Carpet Sweeper Company, when he was chosen Treasurer, filling also the place of confidential clerk as before, and has remained in the same position ever since. Also since the death of Mr. Bissell, Mr. Shanahan has been the Manager and confidential attorney for the Bissell estate, a trust which carries its own comment as to the implicit confidence placed in him. His business capabilities are indicated by the steadily successful and profitable conduct of the establishment with which he is connected, which is the leading one of its kind in the world. He was elected Alderman of his ward (the Fifth) in 1887, and served acceptably two years-was President of the Common Council during the second year of his term-but declined a renomination. Mr. Shanahan married, October 2, i880, Julia Mackley, of Rochester, N. Y. They have four children; two sons and two daughters. Their home is a beautiful place, at the corner of Grove street and Plainfield avenue, built upon a pretty elevation, with a handsome house and tastily arranged grounds. He has an interest in several business associative enterprises, financially, in some of them officially, and is an active, enterprising, well-respected man and citizen. BRUSH MAKING. The Grand Rapids Brush Company are probably among the largest manufacturers of drawn work in all its branches in the United States-employing 180 operatives and sending out about $ 25, ooo worth of work annually. The manufacture was started in 1871 by W. M. Clark, Julius Berkey, Anson L. Sonn and Richard G. Mathews, under the firm name of Sonn, Clark & Co. Beginning on Mill street, they soon moved to a building near the west end of Pearl street bridge, where they remained until the fall of 1873, when the burning of the building temporarily crippled them, and the infant industry was protected by the organization of a joint stock company, with a capital of $50,ooo, and occupying another building near by. In the fall of 1878 they moved into their present quarters on Front street, near Pearl street bridge. The officers of the new company were: A. B. Watson, President; Joseph A. McKee, Secretary, 72 I BRUSH MAKING-CORN BROOMS-CHAIR MAKING. 477 Treasurer and Manager, which position Mr. McKee has held for sixteen years. The stock of the company has been increased, first to $75,000 and later to $ioo,ooo. CORN BROOMS. It is said that the pioneers here, many of them, were not unacquainted with the art of making a broom of the brushy twigs of pine, hemlock, or fir. In I855 Michael Steele began the manufacture of broom corn goods in Milwaukee, and in I88I started a branch factory in Grand Rapids, which for a short time divided his attention with the original one. In 1884 William H. Gardiner became a partner, and the "feeder" was known as the Milwaukee Broom Factory. With a capital of $3,ooo, they employ twelve hands and turn out about $i8,ooo worth of brooms and whisks annually, having a capacity of two hundred dozen a week when running a full force. Steele & Gardiner are at 526 Ottawa street. Something like a quarter of a century ago George Gould started the manufacture of brooms, and carried on the business very successfully until December 26, i886, when he closed out to and was succeeded by J. F. and F. B. Slooter, young men of energetic business push, who determined to take the lead in this industry if possible. The result shows a two story building, 163 North Division street, in which five men are kept busy turning out all kinds of brooms and whisks for the wholesale trade. Besides the main factories of broom corn goods, there are several of more or less minor importance, until we reach the little fireside, where the honest workman, too proud to beg and too old for hard labor, with his "know how" for capital, makes enough brooms to stock his hand cart, and from door to door cries his wares, and feels well paid in netting four to five dollars weekly. J. A. Smits has of late been doing a snug business in brooms and brushes at 153 Eleventh street. CHAIR MAKING. The first chair shop in Grand Rapids was in a small building, where was also the first turning lathe run by other than foot power, upon the little creek which comes down from Division street and discharges into the river a short distance below the Chicago and West Michigan Railway bridge. A portion of the foundation and race or flume where the shop stood, is yet discoverable, a little south of the gas works. It was built in 1835 by David Wooster and Zephaniah Adams, and in 1836 John L. Smith, a turner and chair maker worked there. (Robert M. Barr, a settler of 1834, says that Smith made the first chairs manufactured in this town, and the latter, in 1865, so stated to the writer of this). Several of the pioneers now living have chairs, well preserved, that were made by Smith or Wooster as early as the spring of 1837 or earlier. When they began business doubtless 300 chairs would have supplied nearly all the settlers in this region. Soon came others who made chairs -William Haldane and Archibald Salmon among them. In 1841, Loren M. Page was carrying on the business in a small way, and advertising for material. Then among those who in the forties were more or less engaged in the business, were James T. Finney, Warren W. Weatherly, and Nehemiah White. Mr. White was a thorough workman at this trade, it being his life occupation. He made the first flag-seat chairs for this market, and these were considered somewhat of a luxury in thosp days for common and even for parlor use. About 1848 William T. Powers had men engaged in chair making, and in I849 Albert Baxter and Cyrus C. Bemis. The beginnings of chair making of course were small. Salmon, Haldane and Powers made it a part of their regular cabinet business, and it was generally carried on in connection with cabinet-making. It was not until after the war, when the rapid development of our mechanical industries began in connection with machine work, that chair manufacture as an exclusive business assumed much importance. Yet as early as 1853, William T. Powers began the making of chairs for shipment, and sent large quantities of chair frames to the Chicago market in the "knock down" or unfinished state. CHAIR AND CABINET WORKS. The Grand Rapids Chair Company was incorporated in October, 1872, by Henry Fralick, President; C. C. Comstock, Vice President, and F. W. Worden, Secretary and Treasurer; with a capitalstock of $300,ooo. Buildings were erected in that and the following year. The main factory is a 478 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. four-story brick structure; the engine room and boiler house are also of brick, and the factory store house and offices are four stories. The saw mill is a two story frame, sheathed with iron. The dry-kilns have a capacity for about 184,000 feet of lumber. The premises occupied are extensive, covering nearly twelve acres of land, through which tracks run from every lumber pile to the dry kilns, and thence to each section of the factory. Up to 1882 the company manufactured chairs exclusively. Now, in addition to fine chairs, they turn out chamber sets, tables, book-cases, sideboards and chiffoniers cf medium grades in a variety of woods, mostly maple, birch, cherry and walnut. The annual output is about $325,000, giving employment to some 40 girls and 250 men, at a monthly cost of about $io,ooo. Three traveling men selling to the jobbing and retail trade have made the name of the establishment known in nearly every State in the Union. Officers (I889): President, C. C. Comstock; Vice President, R. W. Butterfield; Secretary and Treasurer, E. H. Foote; Superintendent, John Mowat. Directors: Charles C. Comstock, R. W. Butterfield, Julius Houseman, Julius Berkey, E. H. Foote, John Mowat, Cyrus E. Perkins. The property investment as inventoried in July, i888, amounted to $362,789. The saw mill cuts about 4,000,000 feet of lumber per year, all of which is consumed in the factory. The enterprise had but poor success until 1882, when to chair making furniture was added, the stock not being all taken till then. It has since prospered, and though no dividends were made until i888, it is considered one of the soundest manufacturing establishments of the city. CHARLES CARTER COMSTOCK, who has been energetic and prominent during thirty-five years in the development and building up of the industrial and material interests of Grand Rapids, was born at Sullivan, Cheshire county, N. H., March 5, i818. His father was a farmer of moderate means. His early education was that of the common schools of the time, and, like most New England boys of those days, he labored on the farm until eighteen years of age. In business he soon developed ability and tact as well as energy in the management of affairs. In I842 he became interested in lumbering, built a saw-mill and shortly became the owner of several. In I853, with his family, he came to Grand Rapids, when the population of this city was somewhat less than 4,000. Here again he engaged in the lumber business, and soon started also several branches of manufacture in connection therewith, introducing machinery for the production of sash, doors and blinds, and was one of the first exporters of those articles to outside markets. In 1857 he purchased the furniture factory of E. W. & S. A. Winchester, with its business, which he carried on with vigor and largely increased. The financial revulsion of that year, however, had the effect soon to embarrass him in his operations; but with persistent determination he rallied, and in about four years had met and satisfied his financial obligations, and was once more in the full tide of successful enterprise, in the wholesale furniture trade, in the establishment of which he took the lead. In 1863, he disposed of a half interest in this business to James M. and Ezra T. Nelson, and in I865 he sold the other half to his son, Tileston A. Comstock, and others. In the fall of 1863 he formed a partnership with E. E. Bolles in the manufacture of pails and tubs, and in the following year purchased his partner's interest in that business, which he carried on extensively for about twenty years, till 1883. For this he built a large brick factory, at the corner of Canal and Newberry streets, stocking it with new and improved machinery, and making it the largest establishment of the kind in this part of the country, giving work for many years continuously to more than a hundred employes, and using some Io,ooo,ooo feet of timber annually. In the last named year he disposed of the movable machinery, leased the factory, and retired from personal prosecution of the pail business. At this time his private business enterprises, in all departments, had for fifteen years given work to employes averaging some three hundred in number. Meantime he had purchased valuable farming property north of the city line, and platted Comstock's Addition, now thickly settled upon and an important city suburb. Mr. Comstock has held several offices of trust and responsibility. In 1863 and 1864 he was elected Mayor of the city, and served two terms. In that capacity as well as individually he was active and successful — l CHARLES C. COMSTOCK-RATTAN WORKS-CHAIR FACTORY. 479 in facilitating the raising of troops for the War. He was also enterprising in the matter of public improvements in the city, and the most important of the measures suggested by him ultimately found favor with the Common Council and the people. Afterward he was one of the early advisers in the effort to perfect a system of City Water Works, and as a private enterprise put the first reservoir on the hill, for protection against fire in his neighborhood. In 1870 he was the candidate of the Democratic party for Governor, and in 1873 for Member of Congress; and again in 1878 was the candidate of the Greenback party for Congress. In 1884 he was elected Representative in Congress for the Fifth Michigan District, on what was termed the Fusion ticket (Democratic and Greenback), receiving 20,406 votes to 20,050 for John C. FitzGerald (Republican). He was prominent in organizing and assisting to a basis of profitable working the Grand Rapids Chair Company, incorporated in 1872, of which he has been for several terms and is still the President. Mr. Comstock, in his native town, in I840, married Mary M. Winchester, who died in Grand Rapids just at the close of the year 1863. She was a most comely and amiable lady, and an exemplary wife and mother. Their only son, Tileston A., a young man of great promise and much beloved, died at the age of 26 years in this city, in 1870. Their eldest daughter, Alzina, with her husband, Albert A. Stone, and their little son, perished at sea, by the wreck of the steamer Brother Jonathan, which went down in a storm, off the coast of California, July 30, I865. In 1865 Mr. Comstock married Mrs. Cornelia Davis, daughter of Daniel Guild, one of the pioneers of this valley. His domestic life has been pleasant. In public affairs Mr. Comstock has ever exhibited much interest as a man and a citizen; in enterprise great zeal and activity, and in charities liberality. To the Baptist Church, in the name of his deceased wife and daughter, he presented twenty lots on his city addition, from which the society realized a handsome sum. He is a man of individuality and directness of purpose, influential in the community, and has a high place in popular esteem. In property he has accumulated a handsome competence for his declining years. VALLEY CITY RATTAN WORKS. The tendency to specialization and division of leading industries into separate branches, is nowhere more marked than in the manufacture of furniture. This has led to the establishment of factories devoted to the manufacture of particular lines of furniture, the products of which are widely celebrated for superior construction and finish. The Valley City Rattan works, io and 12 Winter street, were started in the fall of 1884 by Alfred Falkel, as an experiment. He, being a practical cabinet maker, conceived the idea that the manufacture of rattan reed chairs and reed goods exclusively would give a good profit, and started the business without capital but with the determination to make a success of it. The first fourteen months gave him a pretty good knowledge of how to make rattan chairs. The result proved the clearness of his vision, as the present plant is worth about $3,500; and it gives steady employment to twenty operatives, on piece work, and earning from $6 to $12 a week each. The products of this factory are shipped as far south as Florida and Louisiana; Boston contributes to his coffers from the east, and Omaha and St. Paul give him large orders. While he has a fair trade the entire year, his harvest is at Christmas time. The strong and tasty rattan rockers and easy chairs are popular, and guaranteeing his goods has enabled him to work up a business of $I2,000 a year, with prospects of a steady and healthy increase. WOLVERINE CHAIR FACTORY. The Wolverine Chair and Furniture Company was incorporated March IO, i880, with a capital stock of $30,ooo-Wm. H. Powers, President; Byron R. Pierce, Vice President; T. B. Bradfield, Secretary; D. H. Powers, Treasurer. For a time they gave employment to from 50 to ioo men and made $50,000 worth of goods annually. In February, 1887, the company was dissolved and the business carried on under the name of the Wolverine Chair Factory on South Front street, at the end of Pearl street bridge, by Wm. T. Powers, making a specialty of ordered work and chairs, in which are employed twenty-five hands, in the average, at a monthly expense of $800. The building is a three-story frame. The annual output is about $20,000. 480 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. UPHOLSTERING. There are half a dozen or more upholstering shops in the city. This business has been closely connected with furniture manufacture, and has grown with it in proportion to the demand. Among the first workmen making it a specialty were William Koch and John H. DeNuit, who began the business near thirty years ago. This trade now works a capital of about $50,000, and, with upward of fifty workmen, turns off a product of about $i60,ooo annually. STRAHAN & LONG. The Strahan & Long Furniture Company, of which Nicholas Strahan is President and Harry W. Long is Secretary and Treasurer, was started in July, I886, with a capital stock of $25,000, for the manufacture of parlor suits, lounges, and some other goods for the wholesale trade only. Their office and factory are at 117 and II9 South Front street and 116, 118 and I20 Court street. They employ about forty men, at an average monthly pay roll of near $2,000, on upholstering only, the frames being purchased from the frame factories. The annual output is about $ioo,ooo. [This firm has recently been incorporated as the Grand Rapids Parlor Furniture Company, with the same officers.] WOOD ORNAMENTS. The Gleason Wood Ornament Company was incorporated in April, 1883, with a capital stock of $ioo,ooo-President, John Widdicomb; Secretary, W. D. Stevens; Treasurer, Thomas R. Perry. The buildings are of brick with solid foundation, at the corner of Fifth and Seward streets. In their employ are forty men whose monthly earnings are $I,500. The annual output is about $70,000. Their product consists entirely of end-wood ornaments, for housebuilding and piano and organ manufacturers; making a specialty of corner, head, center and base blocks for door and window casings, which are cut with a single blow of a die made by their own die sinker. The name of the company has recently been changed to the Widdicomb Mantel Company; John Widdicomb, President; E. L. WViddicomb, Secretary; T. R. Perry, Treasurer. The scope of the business has at the same time been enlarged, to include as a prominent branch the manufacture of wood mantels of all grades, and looking to the employment of upward of Ioo men. EXCELSIOR. In the packing of furniture the use of the article of finely shredded wood shavings known to the trade as excelsior has become almost universal, not to say indispensable. It is also much used in upholstering and in mattress making. It is made usually of dry basswood, of which a cord or more is required for a ton of excelsior. The wood is cut into lengths of about eighteen inches, the bark is taken off, and the shredding is done by machinery. Formerly this material was procured from eastern dealers, but western enterprise took up the trade and successfully experimented in the manufacture. Several styles of machines are in use technically known as uprights, wheels and rotaries-but the principle is the same in all; a set of knives cutting the wood into fine strings, followed by a knife shaving them from the block. Hundreds of carloads of excelsior are used annually in this city. Samuel 0. Dishman, in 1874, erected a small factory on Third street in which he put four upright machines. In January, I875, he entered into partnership with John Wheeler. For a year or two progress was slow. In 1876 two wheel machines were added to their plant, and in 1878 they had an order from San Francisco for seven carloads. The local furniture men often purchased abroad as well as at home; but from some cause the foreign supply at one time failed, and the home trade received the benefit of an advance of $4.50 per ton in price. After some mutations in partnership, in 1883 the firm of Dishman & Co. was dissolved and the business sold to Donker & Quist, who removed the machines to Elizabeth street, near the north line of the city, where they have of late been working chiefly upon piece or order work. In 1877 Franklin B. Day started a small excelsior factory on Sixth street, west of Broadway, operating one wheel of twenty knives, with a capacity of about a ton a day. John W. Fox was a special partner-capital only $I,500. Mr. Day died in I880, and his widow, Rosanna R. Day, continued the business until I886, when Mr. Fox purchased her interest and enlarged the works. The plant has now an invested capital of $i8,000ooo, and puts out an annual product EXCELSIOR-MATTRESSES-VENEERED SPECIALTIES. 481 of about $35,ooo, giving employment to some fourteen men. The outfit consists of a frame factory; frame warehouse; five acres of yard room; four upright machines of one knife each; one twenty-knife wheel and one twenty-four-knife wheel; the latter having interchangeable plates (the invention of Mr. Fox) by means of which a set of knives can be adjusted in a few minutes, whereas by the old way an entire change took several hours of time. In March, i880, Alfred M. Collins put ten excelsior wheels in operation at ioo Grandville avenue. In 1885 H. W. Miller purchased an interest, and the firm of Miller & Collins continued about eighteen months, after which Collins bought out his partner and has since operated the factory at the same place in his own name. The product goes largely to Chicago, but he has a fair trade elsewhere. The plant and premises are spacious, fitted with all the necessary machinery and contrivances; among them a horizontal or rotary twelveblock wheel, having a capacity of eight tons daily, and feeding into a perpetual automatic baler which carries the bales to the warehouse ready for shipment. The capital invested is $30,000; annual product about $50,000. Some sixteen hands are here given employment. The Grand Rapids Excelsior Company was incorporated September i, 1883, with a capital stock of $25,000-Lewis C. Butts, President and Treasurer; Wm. M. Butts, Secretary. Their establishment is at the corner of Colfax and Sweet streets-a frame factory, with warehouse, kilns, engine-room and brick boiler house. The employes average twenty five, with a monthly pay roll of about $800. The annual output averages $30, 00. MATTRESSES. The Grand Rapids Mattress Company was started in 1882 as a copartnership between Henry C. Russell and Lyman H. Austin, for the manufacture of mattresses and bed springs. In their factory about forty operators are kept busy, earning the $i,6oo, or thereabout, which the monthly pay roll shows. The capital represented is $50,ooo, and the annual product, sold entirely to the trade and going to all parts of the United States, amounts to about $00, 000. Their factory on Huron street 47 burned in I889, and the business was removed to near the northwest corner of the city. Generally, for a quarter of a century or more, a number of individual workers have been making mattresses for custom trade, and several of the furniture manufacturers have made of the business a department in connection with their other enterprises. In 1885 Collins, Hughes & Co. began the manufacture of mattresses. In 1886 the business became that of the W. H. Hughes Mattress Company, and then September 15, 1887, passed into the hands of Henry Ives. The factory is at 258 Canal street. It gives employment to some ten men, and turns out an annual product of near $15,ooo. Capital $5,000. The sales are chiefly in Michigan. In addition to all kinds of mattresses, Mr. Ives deals in curled hair, tow, moss, wool, husks, excelsior, and all the component parts of a mattress. VENEERED SPECIALTIES. The Sherwood Manufacturing Company was incorporated in November, 1885, with a capital stock of $50,000; their specialty being the manufacture of tubular veneered goods, such as umbrella handles, carriage bow and whip sockets, curtain poles, easels and articles of a similar nature, for which there was a great demand on account of their many superior points of excellence and usefulness. This industry, the only one of the kind in the United States, it is said, consists of constructing on a form a tubular body of thin veneers, alternating the grain, which renders the finished article much stronger and less liable to warp than if made of solid wood, besides being capable of a finer finish. For a time they have confined their manufacture chiefly to tubular veneer curtain poles and easels. The factory is equipped with the special machinery needed in their work. In I888 it was giving employment to thirty-five men, whose monthly pay averaged about $I,ooo. Their annual output of $50,000, or thereabout, goes to all parts of the country. Officers of the company (I889:) J. F. Ferris, President; H. H. Drury, Vice President; J. G. Alexander, Secretary and Treasurer. Place of business, corner of Division and Prescott streets. SECOND HAND FURNITURE TRADE. This is a line of business that has attained 482 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. some prominence. P. M. Goodrich conducts a brisk trade at the corner of Canal and Erie streets, which includes the handling of nearly every kind of household goods. At 67 Canal street is an establishment that has grown to be a veritable curiosity shop. It was established about a quarter of a century ago by Robert H. Smith. Upon the death of the latter, in 1887, it passed into the hands of its present proprietor, J. M. Travis. It is a store full packed with almost everything imaginable in the line of old and venerable as well as newer things-second hand goods —and has a thrifty trade. Mr. Travis is a native of Virginia, was a soldier in the late war, afterward a traveling showman many years, and has been a resident here eighteen years. CHAPTER XLIII. INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISES NOT ELSEWHERE CLASSIFIED. WOOL MANUFACTURE. THIIS branch of business started briskly and under what seemed to be favorable auspices in I843, but has dwindled almost to an extinct industry here. In the year just mentioned, Stephen Hinsdill set up machinery for wool carding, cloth dressing and the making of satinets, in one end of the building then known as the "big mill," on the east bank of the river a short distance above Bridge street. Mr. Hinsdill was a descendant of a family of sturdy Yorkshire "dalesmen," who came from England near the end of the seventeenth century and settled in Connecticut. Before coming to Michigan he had been engaged in wool manufacture in Vermont, where he was one of those who suffered by the great financial revulsion of 1837; but, possessed of the energetic and persevering spirit of his ancestors, he came to Grand Rapids with the determination to try again, and started resolutely in this enterprise, and the early settlers of the valley rejoiced over the prospect of having a good home market for wool. His factory was in operation in 1844, with several looms running. The business was continued by himself or under leases for several years. Mr. Hinsdill died in I848, and his "Grand Rapids Woolen Factory" was afterward purchased by Truman H. Lyon, who continued and increased the work, making besides satinets, cassimeres, flannels and other cloths of very good quality. Mr. Lyon afterward built a new factory, into which he moved the machinery in I851, and in 1853 disposed of the business to D. P. Nickerson, who soon afterward abandoned it, and the works went into other hands. Later, several other parties tried their luck at cloth making, with but indifferent success; among them John E. Earle & Co., James D. Lyon, J. Edward Earle, and George M. Huntly; the factories being situated on or near the east side canal. The Earles began in 1867, and were in the business about seven years. Mr. Huntly came to Grand Rapids in 1856, and at first engaged simply in wool carding arid cloth dressing, but in the following year put in machinery for manufacturing fulled cloth and flannels, which he operated until about i868, when his mills were burned. These were in a large building erected by him about i865, in partnership with Allen P. Collar, Robert Hilton and others, on the bank of the river opposite Erie street. The other branch of wool working-carding and cloth dressing —has been followed more or less continuously since the spring of I844, when, immediately after the starting of the Hinsdill factory, John W. Squier set up machinery for the purpose, in what were then called the Kent Mills, between Canal street and the canal, a short distance below Bridge street. Mr. Squier operated with but moderate success for only a few months, and then disposed of his machinery to Stephen Hinsdill. Following these have been engaged in the wool carding and cloth dressing business, Powers & Ball, in I854, S. G. Noyes, in I858, Pew Brothers & Co., in 1859, the Earles and James D. Lyon afterward, Albert Amsden & Son from I876 for two or three years, and since i88o Samuel G. Stadon, whose establishment has been at 72 West Bridge street, and is about all that remains to represent what in the beginning promised to develop an extensive manufacturing interest. The Kent Woolen Mills, owned by John E. Earle, were burned January I, 1873, the machinery and inner part of the building being destroyed. TAILORING. The sewing machine was unknown in the days when this city was young. Nobody had 484 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. then dreamed of the ingenious apparatus which was to supplant the needle and the deft fingers of our grandmothers, and nearly end the wearisome stitch, stitch, stitch, which absorbed a great portioA of their lives. For the first dozen years of the town's existence, most of the tailoring in the village as well as the country about was done in the households. Ordinary or "everyday" clothing was oftener than otherwise the product of the fingers, scissors and needles of the mothers and daughters of the land, than of the professional tailor's art, and the garments were made in the intervals of cooking, washing and house-cleaning, or by the dim light of a candle in the night time. If the fits were not always neat and smooth and close, the wear was such as is not often equaled in these days of shoddy and loop-stitch, slop-shop devices. Tailors who could make a living at their trade in those days were comparatively few, and dependent chiefly upon those who could afford to wear broadcloth coats, or upon an occasional suit for a minister or lawyer, and now and then a wedding outfit; for people who lived to middle age then had the habit of marrying once or twice in the course of their lives, if not as often as is the fashion at the present day. The man having the credit of being the first to sit "cross-legged like a Turk" upon the tailor's bench in Grand Rapids, back stitching the seams of coats, vests and pantaloons, was Charles H. Taylor, who came here in I836, and worked at that trade for many years. Later, in political life, he did some verv good work for his country, filling several county offices with credit and ability, and at one time was Secretary of State (the first chosen under the Constitution of I850). Other tailors in succession during the village days were Harvey K. Rose and William A. Blackney, on Kent street, and on Monroe street, John Mathison, Justin M. Stanly, J. C. Lowell, Benjamin S. Hanchet, Edward S. Marsh and James W. Sligh. Of these, Stanly, Hanchet and Marsh are yet (I889) living amongst us, all retired from that business except Stanly, who is one of the clothing firm of Stanly & Schroeder, on Monroe street. Marsh lives quietly in a modest home, as does also Hanchet, who was at one time engaged in the river transportation business, and has besides spent some years in mercantile life. In the spring of I844, Mr. Taylor advertised: "The rascally tailors charge such outrageous prices for making clothes, I offer an assortment of superior ready-made clothing: Vests from $I to $3.50; pants from $I.75 to $4; coats from $2 to $7." Since the coming in of the sewing machine era, practical tailoring with the needle and thimble has been superseded largely, though there are yet hundreds who earn a living in the putting together of garments for the manufacturing houses, doing the main part of the work by the machine and putting on the finishing touches with a needle. This involves a crowding out of small tailor shops, and but few nowadays are able to live by cutting and making single suits to order, direct for their customers. About forty years ago, stores for the sale of ready made clothing made their appearance, among the early dealers in that line being, Julius Houseman, Lewis Porter, Carlos Burchard, and Porter & Sligh. Since the war period, a considerable number of exclusive clothing houses have grown up, some of them to establishments in size and appointments equal to any in the country. Among the latter are those of Houseman, Donnally & Jones, Leonard Benjamins and George W. Woodburn, on Monroe street; the Tower Clothing Company, corner of Monroe and Pearl; Levi's Star Clothing House, and the Giant Clothing Company on Canal street, and T. W. Strahan, West Bridge street. The investment or capital employed in the manufacture of clothing is upward of $ioo,6oo, yielding an annual product of about twice that amount, and giving work to nearly I50 employes. The Housemans, Stanly & Schroeder and E. S. Pierce carried on for something more than a quarter of a century what might be termed a wholesale tailoring business (and a few others were in the trade nearly as long), giving work to a large number of operatives, of both sexes. JOSEPH HOUSEMAN, merchant, was born February 13, 1832, at Zeckendorf, District of Upper Franconia, in the Kingdom of Bavaria. His father was a cotton manufacturer. Joseph, who was an only son, after receiving a liberal education at ;3 " -~~ it:: -1 , F-I:IP s-,ij-/ %;: i3.,I i-/ '':: ~~~Y. /i JOSEPH HOUSEMAN-MILLINERY. 485 his native place, followed the business of his father for some years. The failure of the revolutionary effort of 1848 threw a damper upon the spirits of the progressive young men of Germany. Having lost all hope of ever realizing in the Fatherland their dreams of liberty, many ardent and adventurous youths followed the example of Carl Schurz, Franz Sigel and others, and, turning their eyes westward, sought a realization of their hopes in the United States. The subject of this sketch was one of those, and when he reached his majority he at once bade farewell to the Fatherland. Arriving in this country in July, I853, he came immediately to Michigan, where his cousin, Julius Houseman, had preceded him. In 1854 he visited Grand Rapids, and came to reside at this place permanently in I857. Here in that year, in company with Julius Houseman, he engaged in mercantile business, in which he has remained almost continuously, and is at the time of this writing the senior member of the firm in the extensive clothing establishment of Houseman, Donnally & Jones. Mr. Houseman married, September 21, i858, Henriette, daughter of Abraham Rose, of Grand Rapids. Three children are the living issue of this marriage-Maurice M., of the law firm of Rutherford & Houseman; Henry L., with his father in business, and Helen, who is yet attending school. Mr. Houseman has always been noted for his love for America and American institutions; transferring to free America the affection which his liberal and progressive spirit could not accord to his native land; and he has ever been among the foremost in building up and promoting the interests of the city of his home, and takes an honest and pardonable pride in calling to mind his share in the work of the development and advancement of Grand Rapids. In public affairs and in politics Mr. Houseman has always exhibited a warm interest; yet, though often importuned by members of his party, has uniformly refused nomination for public office. But in non-political, educational, mercantile, business and social affairs, he has acceptably filled and still holds many positions of honor and trust. The more prominent of these at present are: Member of Board of Education, Director of the Grand Rapids National Bank, President of the Grand Rapids Building, Loan and Homestead Association, Director in the Valley City Building and Loan Association, Director and Treasurer of the Division Street Gravel Road Company, Trustee of Temple Emanuel, and Trustee of Grand Rapids Lodge 238, I. O. B. B. These trusts and responsibilities involve the performance of many and various duties, besides giving strict personal attention to the management of his large business interests. Affable, modest and unassuming, Mr. Houseman prefers to be judged by his record rather than the laudations of interested or disinterested parties; but it is not too much at the present stage of his career to give voice to the general expression of esteem, and the hope that the coming years may fitly crown the life-work thus far so well modeled. MILLINERY. Among the women or girls of most families, when this town was started, were some who were handy with the needle and scissors, and without the Paris fashions they managed to be neatly and becomingly clad. But in a few years there was room for millinery as an art and a trade. In the fall of 1838 Mrs. Phcebe Cramond (afterward Mrs. Leonard Terry), came to the place with her brother, Howard Jennings, and opened a milliner shop over the store at the corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets, where now is Wilson's drug store. Her first customer was Mrs. Myron Hinsdill. A few years later Mrs. Alice Twamley started a shop in a small wood building on Crescent avenue, about where now is the east end of the Grinnell block. In June, 1845, she was burned out there, suffering a total loss of everything except the clothes in which she and her children escaped from the flames. Kind neighbors quickly found her a roof and wherewith to begin anew. Hers is an example of marked success in the millinery line. After two or three removes she established a permanent and profitable business on premises which she had purchased at the northeast corner of Canal and Lyon streets, fronting the former. Here again she was tried by fire, but this time had accumulated some means, and erected a three-story brick block. This last also was burned May i, i866, but the indomitable woman, who, by twenty years of close application and labor, and careful saving, had worked her way from the verge of poverty to the ownership 486 IIISTORY OF THI CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. of a fine property, was again equal to the crisis, and rebuilt, this time a four-story block with the later improvements, which she subsequently extended to Kent alley. It is a success well earned, by steady industry and shrewdness and persistence; an example of woman's capacity and ability in business life. Among others during the earlier days in the avocation of millinery and dressmaking, carrying on shops and employing assistants, were: Mrs. E. Pierson in 1850; Mrs. C. Sowden, Mrs. Sarah Sholz, and Mrs. M. F. Woodward, prior to I859. The demand and the workers to supply it increased rapidly after the war period. In 1873 there were at least three dozen shops contributing to the comfort and adornment of the ladies of the city, and the region about. Mrs. S. J. Sarsfield, Mrs. M. E. Antrim, Mrs. Nellie Buckley, Mrs. L. H. Canfield, Mrs. C. E. Edgecomb, Eliza Hall, Mrs. Richard Worm, Mrs. M. D. Ketchum, Mrs. B. M. Stowe and Mrs. Rose Coldren were then carrying on the trade, and John C. Kendall & Co. were manufacturing millinery on a large scale in connection with their mercantile business. And from sixteen upward in number have been these busy establishments ever since, giving employment to a multitude of nimble fingers in their art of skill and taste. Some of those above mentioned are yet in the trade; and some of the later ones are (in I888), Adams & Co., R. H. Brennen, Denison & Wright, the Neal Sisters, and Miss Anna Minton, on Monroe; Mrs. Elise Bienemann, Mrs. E. J. Reynolds, Sarah Wood, and Mrs. F. W. Worfel, on Canal; Theodore Schultze on Ottawa; Mrs. H. Rich, on N. Front; Mrs. Sophia Winter on Broadway, and Mrs. E. C. Vincent and Mrs. M. E. Runyan on South Division street. DRESSMAKING. In the art of dress making the ladies of the city have been well supplied. From about half a dozen dressmakers in I856 the number has increased to 115 and upward. In this trade it is useless to attempt particularization by names. It is enough to say that they are fully equal in taste, skill and expertness by comparison to those of any other community. Judging from their number, the fact is self-evident that they afford means of livelihood to a great many families. And no department of the pro ductive arts is more necessary and useful than this of clothing for one-half the people. That the ladies of Grand Rapids have no superiors in matters of taste and economy in dress and personal adornment the proof is abundant in their households and on every street. SHIRTS AND UNDERWEAR. In the days when the thimble, needle and thread and scissors constituted the sewing machinery, shirt making as a specialty was a trade very seldom followed. Many old people remember when their mothers, wives or sisters, stitch by stitch, and often by the dim light of a tallow candle, made shirts for the family, and perhaps now and then one for a neighbor, of cotton, tow cloth, or coarse flannel; the latter two often woven also by the same hands. The invention of the sewing machine revolutionized this, and tended to concentrate in fewer hands what was before almost as much everybody's work as washing dishes. The making of shirts as a business specialty in this part of the country is scarcely a quarter of a century old. Leonard C. Remington operated a small factory, near the foot of Monroe street in 1867. In 1875 he had removed to the Arcade. In the following year he was succeeded by Ball & Baxter (Orson A. Ball and Alfred Baxter), who transferred the business to Monroe street. Soon afterward the firm of Gardiner & Baxter, now at 55 M/onroe street, was formed. They are apparently doing a brisk and profitable trade. S. F. Kinsey, at No. 8 Pearl street, has been in the business several years, and gives employment to thirty hands, turning out about 350 shirts a week, amounting to about $29,000 a year. Wm. M. Clark, 3 Pearl street, has seventeen employes and turns out an annual product of about $I3,000. WATCHES AND JEWELRY. Aaron Dikeman came to Grand Rapids in 1837, and opened the first watch and jewelry shop in this State, west of Ann Arbor. His place of business was for many years on Monroe street, from which he moved to Canal street, and later in life he built the brick block now occupied as a jewelry store by his son, Edmund B. Dikeman. In 1846, Vernon Shaw, clock and watch-maker, opened a shop on Monroe street, which he JEWELRY-PAINTING AND DECORATING-LIME AND CEMENT. 187 operated for a few years. Wright L. Coffinberry came in I846, and started a watch and clock- making establishment on Monroe street near the head of Waterloo. He was also a surveyor and civil engineer, but carried on his trade, of watch-making intermittingly for a considerable number of years on Monroe and Canal streets. Lysander Hill early in 1852 opened a jewelry and watch repairing shop, which he operated for a considerable time. In I850, William Preusser, a fine workman at the trade, came to Grand Rapids from Detroit, and started a jewelry and clock and watch-making establishment in a wooden building where Luce's block now stands. After three or four years he removed to Milwaukee, turning the establishment over to his son, Albert Preusser, who continued in the craft, and has been for some thirtyfive years a prominent jeweler, located for a quarter of a century near the foot of Monroe street on the north side, where he has worked up a very handsome trade. Other jewelers here a quarter of a century ago and more, practical workers at the trade, were Charles E. Bolza, H. Brinsmaid, and N. T. Butler. In later years have come in Samuel D. Parks, George Canfield, Joseph C. Herkner, Edward J. Hervey, Antone Zierlyn, Joseph Eikhoff, Elon G. Eaton, William Pulte, J. F. Homan, Herman Yentsch, Fred C. Steglich, and several others with small shops. The jewelry business constitutes a trade of goodly proportions and profits in Grand Rapids, with a number of large and finely stocked stores. CARRIAGE AND HOUSE PAINTING AND DECORATING. Painting, glazing and paper-hanging and decorating are closely connected industries. Comparatively few of the pioneer people could afford an outlay much beyond a medium sized window with small panes, in the glazing line, and cheap, plain painting was the next luxury in which they indulged. But in a few years after the settlement here, some of the more forward ones began to "put on style" and live in painted houses. In the spring of 1837, in the first newspaper issued here, John Beach advertised himself as a "house, sign, carriage and ornamental painter, imitator of woods of every description, paper-hanger and glazier." His shop was at the foot of Monroe street, in the sec ond story of Morrison's building, and he was then, doubtless, able to attend to the wants of the people in the painting line, when there were not probably more than fifty houses worth painting within ten miles. But to his brush was added that of Loren M. Page, who came to town the previous fall, and worked at painting, paper-hanging and glazing for fifty years, the longest steady service of the kind performed by any man in Grand Rapids. After these two came in the village days James T. Finney, Henry Tuttle, James Patterson, John O'Keefe, M. A. Colin, William H. Dickinson, Cyrus C. Bemis, Horace McClure, Julius N. Devendorf, Thomas W. Porter, and two or three others. One plain piece of work done by Mr. Page, is perhaps worth mentioning here. When, about I85I, Louis Campau built a lookout or observatory on his house, on Fulton street hill, and was about finishing it, he said: "I am pretty rich. I shall paper this room with money. Here is the money." He brought forward a stack of unsigned bills of the People's Bank, and with these Mr. Page papered the room. They were still on the walls when, a few years since, the house was removed to make room for a more pretentious modern dwelling. As the town has grown, so have the painters and decorators increased in number, and progressed in the excellence of their work, and there is probably no city in the Union adorned in handsomer style or better taste by their art than is Grand Rapids. It is needless to undertake to give names and locations of those at present engaged in these industries. They are scores, and the labor of their hands and brains gives subsistence to a large number of people. LIME AND CEMENT. Grand Rapids is fortunate in the fact that so many of its resources for development and growth are either within its borders or close at hand. Lime is an article essential in building, and of this the home production is unexcelled. The limestone here is of the best quality and inexhaustible in quantity. The first limekiln here was built and operated by William McCausland, in I834. It was on the bank of the river below the Campau trading post, near the foot of Huron street. James McCrath and brother, for the Kent Company or Lyon & Sargeant, in 1835, built two kilns near the head of the 488 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. rapids, on the West Side not far from where Fifth street comes to the river. The third limekiln was set up by William Morman, by the west bank of the river, between Eighth and Tenth streets, on land which in I888 he sold to the Grand Rapids Veneer Works Company. Another kiln was built by James and Ebenezer Davis, near the junction of Leonard and Front streets, West Side, at an early day. John Berry made and sold lime in I845. His kiln was a short distance above Bridge street, East Side. In I855 Horatio Brooks was operating a "perpetual lime burner" near the head of the rapids, East Side. In 1859 Warren H. and G. R. Congdon were in the business, their places of manufacture being on the West Side, and from that time for nearly twenty years, Morman & Hill (John Hill), and Congdon & Company, were the principal lime makers of the town, the production in 1873 reaching upward of 20,000 barrels per annum. William Morman stuck to the business half a century, and his son Samuel A. is his successor in the trade, dealing also in sewer pipe, fire and well brick, cement, stucco and mason's supplies, at the old stand, 69 Canal street. S. G. Ketcham, West Bridge street, is also a dealer in lime and cement. BRICK, TILE AND SEWER PIPE. In I834, John Davis began making brick in a moderate way at or near where is now the corner of Oakes and Division streets. He put up and burned one or two kilns in that and the following year; but soon abandoned the business. There is no account of any other effort at brick making during the first three years after the settlement of this town. Solomon Withey was the next brickmaker here. Coming in 1836, he found by the point of the hill at the corner of Ionia and Coldbrook streets, a bed of clay which he thought suitable for brick. He built and burned a small kiln there. The first use made of them was for a chimney in the house of George Coggeshall, now a part of the Hempel House, just east of the Bridge Street House. William C. Davidson began the building of the chimney from the basement. He had nearly reached the roof when a heavy rain-storm came in the night and gave the structure a pretty thorough drenching. As the event proved, the clay of which the brick were made carried a considerable quantity of limestone, of which the burning made lime just in right condition for slaking. The next morning the chimney was found in a heap at the bottom of the cellar, the lime having burst the brick. The loss of that kiln was quite a setback to the infant industry and Mr. Withey's expectations. Shortly afterward his son, Orison A. Withey, found better clay and opened another bank on Division street near Oakes, and started the business anew. It was there that the brick were made for many of the earlier dwellings, and for Irving Hall, the first brick block on Monroe street. He carried on the business there for a number of years, and then removed to near Bridge street, east of the hill, where he opened a yard which he afterward sold to David L. Stiven. After Mr. Withey, came Simeon L. Baldwin and established a brickyard east of the junction between Fulton street and Lake avenue, where he, at first for many years in partnership with David Seymour and since by himself, has carried on a large and profitable business in brick manufacture to the present time. Henry B. Holbrook and Charles Barclay also made brick in that vicinity about thirty years ago. With the large amount of building done here, brick-making has had a corresponding growth. Among later makers were D. L. Stiven and Charles A. Robinson, at the east end of Bridge and Lyon streets, and Klaason, Overbeck & DeHeus, at the east city line on Fulton street shortly after the war. Stiven, Brown & Clark, S. L. Baldwin, Brown & Clark, Grand Rapids Brick and Tile Co., Hobart Sprague, and Brown, Clark & Co., are the names in succession of individuals and firms that have been engaged in this business since 1867. In has grown to an interest, including tile making, representing upward of $40,000ooo capital, and yielding an output of some $80,ooo annually. David L. Stiven introduced steam brick machines about 1867-68, and others quickly followed in using them. But the manufacture and sale of brick was not established upon a sure and profitable basis without struggle and toil lasting through a long series of years. Our fine brick blocks now testify to its success, but a narrative of the experiences of Baldwin and Stiven and C~Pi-~I%~, ~~li/?..~ BRICK AND TILE-SIMEON L. BALDWIN-MARBLE-STONE CUTTING. 489 their colaborers, if related in full by them, would be a long story. As long ago as 1873 the consumption of brick in this city reached upward of 20,000,ooo in a single season. Manufacturers of brick and tile in i888: S. L. Baldwin, head of Fountain street; Brown, Clark & Co., East street, between Lyon and Bridge; Hobart Sprague, corner of Diamond and Lyon streets. SIMEON L. BALDWIN was born at Canterbury, Connecticut, April 4, 1821. His family ancestors were from England, and settled in New England in I636. His early life was spent on a farm, near his birthplace, where he attended the district school common to those times about four and a half months in a year. That in addition to the short summer terms of his childhood years, where the smaller scholars were taught the primary studies, comprised the sum and substance of his early educational advantages. In 1840 he changed his residence to Norwich, Ct., where, like most young men of that period, he worked by the month. Having earned enough to give him some of the privileges of the "high schools" which that town afforded, he occupied his time until 1844, alternately in working, attending school and teaching in the district schools of that vicinity. In the latter year he made arrangements with D. W. Coit, a gentleman having large property interests in and about Grand Rapids, Mich., to "go west" and attend to Mr. Coit's business here. Accordingly Mr. Baldwin left Norwich in the latter part of July, and arrived at Grand Rapids August 11, I844. He remained in charge of the affairs of Mr. Coit until I848, when he engaged in business for himself, spending his time between lumbering and farming until 1852, in which year, with his brother-in-law, David Seymour, he started in brick-making, on the gore between Fulton street and Lake avenue; they having jointly purchased the property and moved there in i851, where Mr. Baldwin has since resided. Under the style of Seymour & Baldwin the company continued until 1863, when, upon the death of Mr. Seymour, Mr. Baldwin purchased and assumed the entire business, and has carried it on since. During their first year the firm manufactured about 300,000 brick; but the trade (the works being now at the east end 48 of Fountain street, just outside the city) has so increased that the output for the past few years has been from 5,000,ooo to 6,ooo,ooo yearly. At the April election in I865 Mr. Baldwin was chosen Alderman for the Third Ward, was re-elected in 1867 and again in 1869, and thus held the office for three terms or six consecutive years; then again in 1872 was elected for another term of two years. In I876 he was elected a Representative from the city in the State Legislature, and served the regular term of two years following. In 1879 he was chosen Supervisor of his ward by a handsome majority over a popular competitor who had served several years. To this office he was re-elected until he held it five consecutive years, and was nominated for a sixth term, but declined to run on account of the pressure of private business. He then remained in private life until i888, when he was again elected Alderman of the Third Ward by a majority of 215 over a competitor who had received a majority of 44 for the preceding term. His public service has therefore amounted to ten years as Alderman, two years as Member of the Legislature and five years as Supervisor-in all seventeen years. He has in official life enjoyed the confidence of his constituents, as capable, honest and conscientiously faithful to the trusts reposed in him. Mr. Baldwin married Nov. 26, 1873, at Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, Susan Nicholson of that place. Politically, in early life he was a Whig, and has been a stanch Republican since the organization of that party. Public spirited and progressive in feeling and action, kind and liberal in domestic life, in all ways a model citizen, he has the fullest respect and good will in this community, of which he has been forty-five years a resident. MARBLE —STONE CUTTING. Daniel S. T. Weller in 1848 brought into the village a small stock of Vermont marble, and opened a shop near the foot of Monroe street, for the manufacture of grave stones, monuments, table tops, mantels, and other similar work pertaining to the marble cutter's trade. The demand at that time was small, and only for the plainest and simplest of work, orders for elaborate carving being very rare; but, being the first, and the only one of its kind then in the place, this shop 490 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. furnished fairly remunerative employment for two or three workmen. The first journeyman there was Dudley Handley, who worked at the trade in the city for several years. In 1855 William Laraway opened a second shop on Monroe street, and the two side by side found paying business. The panic of 1857 proved embarrassing to this trade as well as many others, and not much advance was made until after the war. Subsequently John P. Fisk became a partner with Laraway, and in turn sold out to Herman W. Liesveld, and the firm of Laraway & Co. operated for some years on Monroe street between Ottawa and Ionia. About 1870 the partnership was dissolved, and Liesveld with his brother, started a new shop on the east side of Division street, a short distance south of Fulton; Laraway removing his plant to near Fisk's Lake. Soon after this, John M. and Henry C. Ramsey established marble works, under the firm name of Ramsey & Son, at the corner of Pearl and Campau streets, putting in steam machinery, and carrying on there for several years quite an extensive business. Later workers in the marble trade have been: Charles Schmidt & Brothers, West Fulton and Straight streets; Miles H. Witeman, Pearl street; A. R. Gibson, South Division street; Alexander Matheson, with Granite Works on Almy street; Albert L. Russell, Fourth and West Bridge street, and Charles Spencer, North Front street. The marble and granite works of Mr. Matheson are extensive and include stone sawing by steam power machinery. They were situated at 91 to IOI Almy street; but he has lately removed to the east side of Division, near Island street. ALEXANDER MATHESON was born in Scotland, August 12, I833. At twenty years of age he came to America, stopping about a year in Canada, and going to Detroit in I854. There he learned the carpenter's trade, and afterward that of marble and granite stone cutting, at Woodstock, Canada. September 15, 1864, he married Jennie Johnston, a native of Woodstock. In 1873 he came to Grand Rapids, and two years later moved his family here. At that time he established his stone-cutting works on Almy street near the Union Depot, which he operated with a good business until 1889, when the ground was taken for railroad uses, and he removed to the east side of Division street a little south of Island. Mr. Matheson supplied the stone for the Government Building basement in I876, also for the sidewalk and coping thereabout. He has also furnished the cut stone for several other buildings, dwelling houses and sidewalks. In religious affiliation Mr. Matheson and wife are attached to the Presbyterian Church. The family have a pleasant home and surroundings on Center street. Charles Schmidt & Brothers are still doing a thriving business at 93 Canal street, where they have their office and salesroom, and they have a factory and polishing mill at the West Fulton and Straight street corner, for working granite. Anton Hirth, by the railroad, near the jail, for ten years or more has carried on stone-cutting and done a thrifty business, using steam power. There are at present in the city five marble and granite working factories, giving steady work to nearly fifty employes, and with an aggregate investment of some $40, - ooo, turning off a product of upward of $ioo,ooo annually. POTTERY. Although the manufacture of pottery has been carried on in Grand Rapids for thirty years, it has never grown beyond very small limits, as the clay found in the district is only suitable for coarse wares. About 1845 Christopher Culp established a small pottery near the corner of Sheldon and Cherry streets, where he made milk pans and other brown earthern ware for two or three years. David L. Stiven, who had a brickyard near the Fulton street cemetery, was the next to make pottery. Setting up a plant near the west end of Pearl street bridge, in I857, he used clay from the bed where he made brick, and produced the first drain tile made here, also flower pots and stands, stove pipe tubes, and some glazed articles, which were on sale in the stores and pronounced equal to any imported. In I859 Mr. Stiven took as partner Samuel Davis, who, after several changes in the firm, acquired the sole interest, and about an:; 0 - S*i r: — E - j^-A^ MPOi ( &1: D~~~~~~~~ POTTERY-SALERATUS-SOAP AND CANDLES. 491 1872 transferred the pottery part of his business to 515 East Bridge street. In 1874, Mr. Davis engaged John Lipzinski as manager, taking him as partner two years later, and eventually giving up the business entirely to him. This establishment, and that of Michael Doyle close by, the only potteries now in Grand Rapids, turn out annually from 350,000 to 400,000 pieces, consisting of flower pots and stands, jugs, cooking pans and various household utensils; and lately some tasteful shapes in vases and flower pans for decoration by amateur artists, have also been produced. The business gives employment to twelve or fifteen workmen, and with a capital of about $6,ooo turns out a product amounting to near $18,ooo annually. The manufacture of drain tile, in which Mr. Stiven was the first adventurer here, has been more or less connected with the pottery business, and has also been carried on to some extent by other parties. SALERATUS. The manufacture of potash was an early industry here. In 1842 D. W. Shoemaker & Co. advertised for ashes for this use, and in I843 Amos Roberts, who had an ashery on the river bank a little above Pearl street, was offering ten cents a bushel for good house ashes, and eight cents for field ashes. The Roberts factory was kept running for several years. In 1847 Sterling & Dugan began buying black salts, and in 1848 John Clancy and brother (William) were offering to pay "the highest price for 200 tons of black salts." These people were making pearlash and saleratus. This business has been continued intermittently, by various parties, but not very extensively, nearly to the present day. In 1878 Henry S. Smith & Co., at the corner of Kent and Newberry streets, were manufacturing saleratus for the trade, and this establishment was kept going several years. In 1882 David S. Randolph had a soda and saleratus factory on Front street above Sixth; David Lankester made potash on North Canal street near the city limits, and the Oriole Manufacturing Company at 42 West Bridge street were producing baking powder. At this date also, and for some years after, the Arctic Manufacturing Company at 20 Lyon street (Charles W. Jennings and Walter A. Smith), were in the baking pow der business, and in i887 the Wolverine Spice Company had a similar factory on Court street. Henry S. Smith probably led all local manufacturers in the production and sale of saleratus. "Smith's Saleratus" came to be well known and in brisk demand throughout this and adjacent States, and that branch of his business was not only large but profitable. SOAP AND CANDLES. Oliver Taylor was one of the earliest, if not the first, of those who made the manufacture of soap and candles and glue a regular business. He had a small factory for several years on South Division street, near Oakes. In I847-48 Sterling & Dugan were engaged in the same business on Division, a short distance south of Fulton street. For many years a factory was kept running at the corner of Island and Sheldon streets, by Henry Bremer, who came here in i850 and engaged in the soap and candle industry, and in i856 built a stone factory near the corner of Ionia and Fairbanks streets, which about two years later was purchased by Henry S. Smith and Thomas P. Gallup. In i865 Hiram C. Goodrich was in the business on Barclay street. Talford & Goodrich (William D. Talford and Hiram C. Goodrich) soon after, about I867, accupied the stone factory just mentioned, where they continued the soap and candle industry, with a good trade, for twenty years, and but recently retired therefrom. Meantime a considerable number of other establishments of this kind have been operatedamong them those of Brogger & Pulte, in I873-74, on Jefferson street; of Brogger & Weiden, 1876, on Walker avenue, west of the city line; in 1878, the Valley City Soap Company on Front street, south of Fulton, and Samuel White on Walker avenue; in I880 and since, Hubert Weiden at 89 Almy street, dealer also in hides and tallow. Of late the candle making business seems to have nearly or quite gone out of fashion; the days of oleomargarine have probably given a more profitable use for tallow. But the potash and soap industries are yielding products valued at about $75,ooo annually, with $37,0o0 of invested capital, employing about twenty hands. The New Grand Rapids Soap Company, for the manufacture of domestic and toilet soaps, have a factory 492 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. at the corner of Fifth avenue and Hilton streets, with an output of some,0ooo boxes per month, selling to the jobbing trade. The corporation has an authorized capital of $50,000. Officers: W. R. Shelby, President; W. H. Cooper, Vice President; Wm. J. Stuart, Secretary; Wm. B. Loveland, Treasurer. BAKERIES. In 1838 a baker's oven was built by a man named Haskins, on Monroe street, opposite Waterloo, and William Rust baked bread and crackers there for the hungry villagers. William McConnell, in 1844, established a bakery in the rear basement of the Faneuil Hall building, corner of Monroe and Waterloo. He soon removed toward the foot of Monroe street, and again in the fall of that year to the basement of Irving Hall, then just erected. Early in 1845 Robert S. Parks opened a bakery in Faneuil Hall block and named it "Headquarters." William Parks was baker there. This establishment was soon afterward removed to Monroe street, just above Irving Hall, where O. C. House was the baker, and in 1846, M. W. Jeffords was associated with him. This bakery subsequently passed into the hands of William S. Gunn, from him to William Fulton, in 1852, and was afterward carried on for a time by Jefferson Carson. (The outfit of the "IIeadquarters" has been removed recently up Monroe to near Division street, where Lyman E. Patten is the operator). About 1848, and for a few years following, the bakery started by McConnell was operated by John Habenstreittenger. In i852, Parker & Town had a bakery on Canal street, and O. C. House was still in the business, removed to the corner of Waterloo and Louis streets. The first baker's carriage upon the streets was run by Wm. Fulton & Co., in the summer of I856. In 1859, are found named among the bakers, Jefferson Carson, Monroe street; Martin Cusack, Canal street; Josiah Wilcox, on West Bridge near Front street; Jacob Schoenhut, corner of East Bridge and Kent streets, and E. K. Powers, Monroe street. Ten years later among the bakers were John B. Folger, West Bridge street; Sears & Merchant, Monroe street; George W. Van Every & Co., Canal street, and in addition to these were, and still are, a number of ovens, run by German citizens, for the pro duction of rye bread, pretzels and other specialties of their trade, besides the other and usual bread and pastry products. In the beginning of the business, crackers were rolled by hand, one by one. Later came the introduction of machinery and steam power, by which the dough was kneaded, rolled into sheets, and the crackers cut with dies, large numbers at every stroke. Van Every & Co., in 1867, had a six-horse power engine at work turning them out. Sears & Merchant had already started in that field, and next came revolving ovens, one of which this firm in 1869 placed in their steam bakery on Kent street, to which they soon added another of the Yale patent; and at that large bakery, now operated by William Sears & Co., the proprietors have kept fully abreast with all the modern improvements in their trade, turning out as large a daily product as any establishment of the kind in the country. Prominent among the bakers in I875, in addition to some of the above mentioned, were Charles Hoffman, Monroe street; Eaton & Christenson, Canal; B. P. Bronkaw, W. Bridge; and Peter Kriekaard, Cherry street. In I880, Aruna Bradford, Monroe street; Thomas Wasson, Canal; Landauer & Brother, East Bridge; J. J. Fisher, North Division; H. J. Pessink, South Division; Frederick Behl, West Bridge. And a considerable number are of late years added to the ranks of those who furnish the tables of our thousands of households with bread, crackers, and pastry. The business taken together has grown very large, and for the trade two establishments alone produce nearly $200,000 worth of crackers annually. WILLIAM SEARS is a native of Ashfield, Franklin County, Massachusetts, where he was born June 20, I818. His early educational advantages were those of the schools of that vicinity. In the earlier part of his business life he passed some five years in the dry goods trade at West Troy, N. Y. At Albany, N. Y., October 16, 1845, he married Judith Adams. She died at Grand Rapids in I875. They had three children, of whom one, a son, died in 1852; another son, Stephen A., is now one of the firm of William Sears & Company in business, and a daughter is now Mrs. C. D. Lyon. After leaving West Troy, Mr. Sears went South and lived in Virginia about seven WILLIAM SEARS-CONFECTIONERS. 493 years. From that State he came to Grand Rapids in 1857, and took an interest with Jefferson Carson in the "Headquarters" bakery and victualing-house, adjoining Irving Hall on Monroe street. In I860 he purchased Mr. Carson's interest and continued the business by himself. It was not the nature of Mr. Sears to drift slowly, but to "push things," hence in 1862 he purchased a building that had been erected for a flouring mill on Waterloo, between Ferry and Louis streets, where he put in steam machinery for cracker making exclusively, and was soon in the full tide of success in that branch of manufacture; the store in Irving Hall block being continued, with a rapidly increasing trade in crackers and sweet goods and other table supplies. In 1867 he was joined by his brother, Samuel Sears, and Joel Merchant, the partnership name being Sears & Merchant. In 1868-69 they built a new factory, the three-story-andbasement brick block now occupied at 35 to 41 Kent street, and fitted it with the best of revolving ovens, machinery and other appliances for the manufacture of crackers and cakes for the wholesale trade-which exclusively has been the business of Mr. Sears since starting work at that place in 1869. In 1873 Mr. Merchant withdrew, since which time the firm name has been William Sears & Company; the other copartners now being his brother, Samuel, and his son, Stephen A. Sears. The factory and sales office are models of convenience and good taste in finish and adaptation to their uses. There Mr. Sears has enjoyed the satisfaction of building up an industry not excelled in the quality of its products; with a volume of business the largest of its kind done by any establishment in the State. William Sears is financially interested in several other industrial and business enterprises; is a stockholder in the Alabastine Company, and also in the National City Bank and the Fourth National Bank. Politically, he is a supporter of the Democratic party. Though not a member, he is an attendant at the Park Congregational Church. He is one who attends to his business in all its details with methodical care, energy, honor and tact, and conducts it successfully. As a citizen and neighbor he is public-spirited, frank and genial, enjoying the general respect and good will wherever he is known. CONFECTIONERS. The manufacture of candies in Grand Rapids was begun in December, 1849, by Austin B. Bidwell and his two sons, George and Austin, who opened a small shop between Ottawa and Ionia streets on the north side of Monroe. Subsequently the business was removed to Pearl street, near where is the entrance to the Arcade. Soon afterward the place was destroyed by fire. The young men then moved to the east side of Canal street, between Lyon and Crescent avenue, where they operated for a few years. They built up a large trade, and the best establishment of the kind then in this part of the country, but subsequently left Grand Rapids, and established their headquarters at Ionia. Another and younger brother, Joseph B. Bidwell, a little later, started the manufacture for himself, his shop being in the Franklin block, but continued in the business there only a short time. Others who entered that field before the war period were Joseph S. Hampton, near the west end of Bridge Street Bridge, and E. K. Powers, near the foot of Monroe street, who were in the trade in 1859. About ten years later, Mr. Powers, in partnership with Francis D. Waldron, was still in the candy making and confectionery business near the head of Monroe street, and the Putnam Brothers were carrying on the trade near the foot of that street. Shortly after these, began Eaton & Christenson on Canal street, nearly opposite Crescent avenue. In 1873, the Putnams had moved to Kent street, and Thum & Kuhn had succeeded the latter in the Monroe street stand, while E. R. Niles had a shop at the corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets, and A. B. Newkirk at the corner of West Bridge and Scribner streets. In 1874, the Cooper Brothers were at the corner of Canal and Erie streets; Charles Hoffman, Jr., was near the head of Monroe street; the Putnam Brothers had moved to Huron street; and P. M. Werner & Co. were on Front street near West Bridge, as confectioners. In I875, Kuhn & Moeller were in the business on Pearl street near the bridge. In 1878, Putnam & Brooks had established a large factory and wholesale trade at 63 and 65 Canal street, the Cooper Brothers were at 52 Canal street, and Aruna Bradford was on Monroe street, a short distance from Pearl. Since the latter date 494 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. there have been a few additions to the candy makers; among them, Miss M. A. Formby at 103 Monroe, William Ransby at 52 Canal, and Warren Swetland, first at 57 Canal street, and later at 184 Monroe. In 1887, Putnam & Brooks removed their business from Canal street to a large brick block at Nos. ii to 15 South Ionia. Most of the manufacturers have done something in the way of wholesale trade, and there are in the city about two dozen retail dealers. It is estimated that the confectionery trade now amounts nearly or quite to $450,000 yearly. LEATHER MANUFACTURE. Samuel F. Perkins, a settler of 1836, at an early day opened a tannery on the east bank of the river, a short distance above Bridge street. This, by himself for a portion of the time and in company with William Woodward for a number of years, was kept in operation until about i860. Charles W. Taylor came in 1839, and began the tanning business in a small way at Coldbrook, a short distance from the river, which he continued at the same place nearly thirty years. His tannery was burned three times, by each of which disasters he suffered a loss of upward of $io,ooo-first on Decem - ber i6, I85i, again February 5, I856, and the third time May 31, 1867, after which he discontinued the business. These two were the pioneer tanneries of'this town. In i858 Mr. Taylor was employing from seven to ten hands, and turning out an annual product valued at about $I5,ooo. Perkins, Woodward & Co. at the same time were employing from eight to ten men with an annual product of from $20,000 to $25,000. Church, Judd & Co., about i857, started a tannery on South Division near Prescott, which they sold to Riordan & Kaiser. The leather store of Mr. Taylor was at an early day by the foot of Monroe street, and later on Canal near Bridge street; that of Perkins & Woodward was at first on Kent street south of Crescent avenue, and afterward on Monroe street nearly opposite the head of Waterloo; that of Riordan & Kaiser at the foot of Monroe. DeGraff, Rademaker & Nyland, Schram & Fox and J. Koster & Co., subsequently operated in the leather making trade on South Division street, prior to I870. Following them on that street were Koster & Kruger in I875. The Cappon & Bertsch Leather Com pany have been doing a thrifty business in the production of leather for upward of thirty years. Their main tannery is at Holland. The members of the firm are John Bertsch, President; Isaac Cappon, Vice President; William Cartwright, Secretary and Treasurer. Messrs. Cappon and Bertsch began the enterprise with their own two'pairs of hands. energy, perseverance and economy as their chief capital, in some old log buildings at Holland, Michigan, in 1857. In 1863 they erected a new building, and soon made other additions. In I866 William Cartwright took a one-third interest with them. Their entire plant at Holland, together with a large stock of bark, was consumed by the great fire of 1871, by which they suffered a loss of about $70,ooo with no insurance. Undaunted, they rebuilt, and soon had a larger establishment than before. In 1882 they were using annually from 5,000 to 6,00o cords of hemlock bark, costing about $6 a cord, and with a capital of $200,000 gave employment to some ninety men, doing a business of over half a million dollars annually. In I880, competing at New York, they took the gold medal for the best non-acid sole leather made in the United States. Since the last named date they have done a steadily increasing business. Their organization as a stock company dates from January I, I875. With a stock capital of $400,ooo they give work to 230 employes, and their annual output amounts to between $700,ooo and $800,ooo. The plant at Holland cost about $iio,ooo, and has capacity for turning out an average of over I,ooo tanned sides daily. Their store in Grand Rapids was built in I869, at a cost of $20,ooo. It is a four-story brick structure with Ionia sandstone front, standing at Ioc Canal street, a capacious and handsome edifice. The Wallin Leather Company, whose factory is on South Front street, near Baldwin, was originally organized in Chicago, as C. C. Wallin & Sons, in I85I, by C. C. Wallin, Thomas S. Wallin and Franklin B. Wallin. The firm is still there, dealing in leather and said to be the oldest in Chicago. The tannery was at Sangatuck before they removed it here. The company here was organized in 188I, with a capital stock of $oo, ooo; present investment $140, ooo. President, Thomas S. Wallin of Chicago; LEATHER MANUFACTURE-BOOT AND SHOE MAKING. 495 Treasurer, Franklin B. Wallin; Secretary, Van A. Wallin. They employ some thirty men, to whom they pay an average of $300 per week. Their productive capacity is about I,ooo sides per week. Of their product about $30,000 in value of leather per annum is sold to the home trade, the rest from their store in Chicago. Hirth & Krause at 1 8 Canal street, have for several years carried on a fair trade as dealers in leather, hides, pelts, furs, and in leather work findings generally. BOOT AND SHOE MAKING. If the pioneers brought with them shoes to last ten months, it is not probable that many of them went barefoot. Barney Burton had a quantity of brogans and shoes and women's boots forwarded to him from Ypsilanti, which he began selling in March, I834, at' prices varying from $I.25 per pair for slips, to $2.50 for women's boots, and $4 for boots and brogans. N. 0. Sargeant brought with him a stock of boots and shoes for his men when he came in 1835 to dig the canal race. Doubtless there was a cobbler in the settlement as early as that. Earliest accounts with a full-fledged workman appear with the name of "French Shoemaker," probably Ringuette. John and Maxime Ringuette, shoemakers, came in the spring of 1836, and during the summer did not find work enough to keep them busy at their trade. But the rapid increase of settlers soon changed that, and for many years they carried on shoemaking and kept a boot and shoe store near the foot of Monroe street. John died many years ago, and Maxime, on retiring from active business, built a small shop by his residence at 508 S. Division street where, as age crept upon him, he has whiled away the tedium of many a passing hour by the exercise of the handicraft of his earlier years. His wife, a genial and gentle woman, who delighted in the happiness of all around her, died in 1879; and toward him-by nature noble and honest and mild -there can be but one feeling, that of high esteem and warm friendship. Among other remembered shoemakers of the early village period were: John Waring, who died in 1844, after six or eight years of residence; Samuel F. Perkins, who had a tannery by the east side canal, and a store and shop on Kent street and afterward on Monroe; William Woodward, for years in partnership with Perkins; Almon Ward, for a time with Perkins; also Nelson Rolfe and James Lochlin, both expert workmen. William Woodward, venerable in years and loved as a citizen, remains with us, retired from active work and business. J. M. Griffith lived and worked many years at the northeast corner of Ferry and Ottawa streets. Charles W. Taylor, in 1843, opened a boot and shoe store at the foot of Monroe, anc Major Worden opened a manufactory the same year where the engine house now stands opposite the county building site. Z. Adams, in 1842, was manufacturing buckskin goods, one door north of the Kent bookstore, but whether or not boots and shoes were among them, the chronicles do not state. In 1849, W. W. Hatch and Horace Merrill had a factory and little store, boot and shoe, at the angle on the north side of Monroe street, near the foot. James Scribner had a little shoe shop near his house, corner of Front and West Bridge, at an early date. In this, as in several other mechanical trades, for the past thirty years, it is difficult to determine the number of operatives. In I859, with a population of less than 8,000, eighty-eight workmen upon the shoemaker's bench were reported —about one to every ninety inhabitants of the city; though perhaps nearly as many might be added of the people of neighboring towns who procured their outfits and supplies for the feet at this center. To undertake the enumeration of shoemakers up to the present time, and give their names, would be impracticable, if it were of any use. One might as well attempt to give the annual censuses of saloons and those employed therein. The Grand Rapids Board of Trade has not undertaken that task. Wilna Cole, William Riordan, Godfrey Kalmbach, M. F. Vlekke, Frank Kaiser, John Betts, Charles Wallraff, and Charles Williams, are remembered among those who fashioned boots and shoes thirty years ago and more; nearly as early were WVhitley, Rindge & Co., and some of them are still at the trade. A large number of these useful artificers are carrying on quiet shops of their own; in addition to employes in larger establishments, among or from which have grown up several thrifty wholesale and retail houses. Among the wholesalers (in i888), Rindge, Bertsch & Co., and Reeder, Pal 496 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. mer & Co., on Pearl between Canal street and the river are prominent. FELT BOOTS AND SHOES. This manufacture, and the only factory of the kind then in this part of the country, was started in i88i by E. J. Studley, Julius Berkey, M. R. Bissell and 0. R. Wilmarth who organized the Grand Rapids Felt Boot and Shoe Company; capital stock, $50,ooo0. The business office was in this city but the work was then done at Stanton, Michigan. A year or two later the factory was removed here and established on Mill street, near the foot of the canal. The works are in a four-story brick block, I6 and i8 Mill street, and are doing an extensive and thrifty business. Officers of the company in i888: President, E. G. Studley; Secretary, John A. Covode; Treasurer, Spencer Arnold. SADDLE, HARNESS AND tRUNK MAKING. Isaac Watson, about 1837 settled in a log house in Bridge street on the West bank of the river. XWhen the street was opened and the bridge built he moved into the south one of the Baptist Mission buildings, where he worked at making saddles and harness. He died there in I849. William Otis Lyon, a saddler and harness maker by trade, came here at an early day and started a shop on the north side of Monroe street a little above Ottawa. He afterward added trunk-making in a small way to his business. He operated there some twelve or fifteen years. About I845 came John P. Hanchet who worked for some years at the same business a little below the old National Hotel. About the same time in the trade was Benjamin P. Arbor, whose shop was in "Kent," as the upper part of the village was called. As the town grew, work for harness makers increased, and when it was twentyfive years old, fifteen of them found busy employment. Charles J. Kruger, C. B. Carpenter, M. P. Booth, Franklin Mattison, William Tusch, Gustavus Werner, Elijah Foote, and C. O. Stimson were among the harness makers of I859, and some of them several years before. Mattison did a thrifty business for nearly thirty years, and recently the same shop has been carried on by others at 73 Canal street. There are now about a dozen establishments of the trade, including those of dealers in the goods. Willibald Voss has operated a harness and saddle shop at 123 Canal street, during the past fourteen years. Board of Trade figures in I888 gave $26,000 as the capital invested in harness manufacture, yielding a product in 1887 of $78,000, and working about forty employes. Edward Struensee, of Waterloo street, has been a manufacturer of and dealer in harness and saddlery goods since about 1876. J. G. Heinzelmann operates a harness shop on Ellsworth avenue. In the earlier days most harness makers did a small business also in the trunk making line. There is now one quite extensive trunk manufactory in the city, that of Groskopf Brothers, at 91 Canal street, devoted to that business exclusively in its several branches. Judd & Co. (E. E. Judd, manager), since 1883 have been in the saddlery hardware trade, at I02 Canal street. LEATHER BELTING AND HOSE. About 1876, Felix Raniville and Simeon R. Sikes began the manufacture of leather belting and hose at No. 8 Pearl street. After a few years Mr. Raniville purchased his partner's interest and enlarged the business, which had been moved to 103 Canal street. He has been a practical workman and expert in leather from his youth up, and uses many thousand ox hides annually in his business, manufacturing belts of all dimensions required. His shops in I890 are at Nos. I to 7 Pearl street. E. G. Studley, whose business place is at No. 4 Monroe street, has been engaged for many years as manufacturer of and dealer in rubber and leather belting and kindred goods. A recent estimate gave $65,000 as the amount of capital invested in the belting business; giving work to nearly fifty employes, and turning out a product in round numbers of $230,000 annually. COOPERAGE. The demand for barrels began in Grand Rapids at the time of the building of the first flouring mill here in 1837, the first to engage in cooperage being James A. Rumsey, who had brought with him a set of cooper's tools. Shortly after the milling COOPERAGE-BARREL AND STAVE WORKS. 497 began, there was a supply of flour for export, and an accumulation of fresh pork for shipment. Barrels being needed, Mr. Rumsey went down the river into the woods, where parties had been getting out staves for the Chicago market, purchased a quantity, brought them here, started a shop, and met the demand. About that time, John Kirkland, a cooper by trade, came into the place, and started work in that line, which he followed during his life. His shop for more than a quarter of a century was near the junction of Division and Cherry streets. In I843, William T. Bentley entered the business, and has since continued therein with a fair degree of success. Another early workman at this trade is Elijah Dart, who came soon after Bentley, and has followed the occupation continuously, his shop being near the corner of Kent and Mason streets. Edmond Graves, Perry Knight, and Charles M. Rogers were also among the early coopers. Among later ones have been, Darius T. Button, Henry Kortlander, Joseph Heinrich, Robert W. Love, Milmine & Williamson, Andrew A. Greil, Henry Ickler, Michael Mertes, John A. Spring, and R. B. Lindley, very nearly in the order here named, since I86o. There are twelve or fifteen of these musical shops in town, but at the present time the heavier part of the barrel business is carried on in large factories, operated by steam machinery. Flour barrels, pork barrels, beer barrels and kegs, and liquor casks, are articles in brisk demand, and their manufacture constitutes no insignificant item. At the time of this writing there are in the city upward of a dozen barrel and keg factories, where nearly 300 employes find work. Their combined product for 1887 was estimated at about $5Io,ooo, market value, from the use of $375,000 of capital invested. For the year I865, only $27,748 was the amount returned to the Internal Revenue officers by six cooper shops as their gross receipts. Thus it appears that during twenty-five years this business has increased nearly twenty-fold. William T. Bentley came to Grand Rapids August 28, 1843, and began work for Henry R. Williams in his cooper shop on Bridge street, near the canal. After six weeks he opened a shop on his own account, and has since worked for himself at the coopering business. He now operates a shop on Butterworth avenue. Probably no t9 other person now at the business in Grand Rapids has worked at hand-cooperage so many years. THE WATERS BARREL WORKS. The Michigan Barrel Company was incorporated January 3, I870, with a capital stock of $300,ooo-Daniel H. Waters, President; Frank B. Gilbert, Vice President; Henry Grinnell, Treasurer, and D. H. Powers, Secretary-for the manufacture of the Waters Improved Barrel. December 14, I886, their charter was renewed for thirty years. While organized more especially to manu facture the improved barrel, they have added different articles from time to time, until their product consists of all kinds of bentrim goods, such as bailed salt and grease boxes, measures, tobacco drums, and many other articles of a similar nature. Some idea of their capacity may be formed from the box department, turning out daily 40,000 boxes for axle grease. Their plant, in the northern part of the city on Canal street, consisting of the main factory, saw mill and warehouses, is equipped with the best of machinery. In addition several acres of land are used for yards and dry kilns. They give employment to about 250 operatives, with a monthly pay roll of some $6,ooo, and an average annual output of $I75,000. This is one of the institutions in Grand Rapids in which a stockholder likes to be interested, as it has paid in dividends to stockholders nearly $I,ooo, ooo. George G. Briggs was elected Treasurer in I871, and in i875 the offices of Secretary and Treasurer were consolidated, and he was chosen to fill the new office, which he did continuously until the spring of i886. Officers in I888: Oliver S. Waters, President and Superintendent; Harvey J. Hollister, Vice President; Alonzo B. Porter, Secretary and Treasurer. They are classed in the directories as barrel, box, bent-wood and woodenware manufacturers. The establishment is the largest, and in some of its features the only one of the kind, in existence. -STAVE WORKS. The Grand Rapids Stave Company was established in 1864 by J. W. Converse, mainly for the purpose of making barrels for the old Eagle Plaster Mills. In May, i866, George W. Hewes, John Whittemore and Marshall S. Lord, succeeded to and contin 498 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. ued the business, under the firm name of George W. Hewes & Co., until April, I874, when the old firm and Sylvester Luther organized the Union Stave and Chair Company, which was incorporated with a capital stock of $50,000. In April, 1878, the present corporation secured the plant, and the Grand Rapids Stave Company with a capital stock of $25,000 was incorporated — George W. Hewes, President; John Whittemore, Vice President; James A. Hunt, Secretary and Treasurer. Their present works give employment to about eighty men whose monthly earnings average $3,000. The annual output of $i6o,ooo is shipped to all parts of the northwest. The factory is on Front street, south of Fulton. BOX MAKING. The manufacture of paper boxes as a special business was begun soon after the late war by Arthur W. Currier, who at first made them by hand, cutting out the board with a knife. Afterward he procured machinery, and in 1873 was carrying it on in connection with T. C. Putnam at I6 Monroe street. Putnam continued in it several years. In 1883 Barlow Brothers were making paper boxes on Ottawa street, and G. A. Scruby on Pearl street. In I888 the principal paper-box factory was that of W. W. Huelster, at i Pearl street, doing quite an extensive business. It has lately been moved to the corner of Louis and Campau streets. In wood box making, J. F. Kendall & Co., C. O. Allen, the Michigan Barrel Co., and W. H. Bachman, were at work as early as I873. Allen was a maker of cigar boxes, and continued that business several years. In 1888, Parker & Green were making cigar boxes on Campau street, corner of Louis. A. E. Stockwell & Co. were making boxes of bent wood in I878. About that time Z. E. Allen, Bachman & Priestley, Cory & Blount, and Frost & Ruhlmann were making packing boxes. E. S. Cory & Co., and G. E. Richmond, were manufacturing packing boxes in 1883. In i888, among the principal manufacturers of wood packing boxes were Miller & Stanton, South Front street, by the G. R. & I. R. R., and Richmond & Seymour, on Erie street. PAIL AND TUB MANUFACTURE. About 1843 James H. Scott set up a pail factory north of East Bridge street by the river bank. A little later it was taken and run for a time by Zenas G. Winsor. Afterward it passed into the hands of David Caswell, and was moved to the south of Bridge street. Gilbert L. Hubbard, a practical pail maker came and entered the business as a journeyman in I849, and worked at it most of the time for upward of thirty years. Robert Cutler and T. P. Gallup carried on pail making for a time at the same place, or near there. In the summer of I863 Wm. A. Wartrous was running a pail factory and making about i50 pails per day. None of these earlier efforts were very profitable nor more than moderately successful. In 1863 came E. E. Bolles, a workman at the trade, and in partnership with C. C. Comstock started pail manufacture at Newberry street, near Canal. The venture during the first year was but poorly remunerative, and Mr. Comstock purchased the interest of Mr. Bolles. Mr. Comstock continued the enterprise, and soon bought more and improved machinery and enlarged his business, until some 120 men and boys were employed about the works, and they were turning out daily i,ooo tubs and 3,000 pails, besides some other and smaller goods. In this line of manufacture competition is strong, though not locally so, and prices have been fluctuating; rendering it an uncertain business-some years quite profitable and others not at all. By investments finally amounting to more than $I50,ooo, purchasing and running cars for shipments and thus lessening expenses, Mr. Comstock managed to make the works fairly profitable. In October, 1883, just twenty years after he started in that enterprise, he sold the movable machinery and leased that part of the factory used for making tubs and pails to the Cupples Woodenware Company of St. Louis, Missouri. This company used a capital of $175,ooo, and made the manufacture successful and apparently profitable. Its output was greatly increased. They employed some 200 hands and turned and finished an average of about 4,200 pails and 1,300 tubs daily, for which they worked up annually about 7,000,000 feet of logs, while cutting an equal amount into lumber. In this latter department they also employed eighty men and $75,000 of capital. The Cupples Company suspended the manufacture of pails at the end of I888. WOODEN WARE —WOODEN SHOES-CIGARS AND TOBACCOS. 499 BOWLS, CLOTHESPINS, FAUCETS. In 1863 the turning of wooden bowls was a business of some note, carried on by the Antrim Brothers, on Mill street, a short distance below Bridge. This branch of manufacture had been started some years before, by Franklin Everett, using newly patented machinery. It seemed promising, but shortly afterward was abandoned. E. F. Harrington had an interest in the bowl factory, with or succeeding the Antrims. In 1867 David P. Clay had a lively factory, on Canal street near Trowbridge, turning out wooden bowls, butter ladles, rolling pins, clothes pins, and a variety of other articles by special machinery. About the same time the manufacture of wood faucets was carried on to some extent. Considerable work is still done in this line of business. WOODEN SHOES. Among oddities and specialties in wood work, there is one which, while not the largest, is at least useful to a large number of adopted citizens. The Grand Rapids Wooden Shoe Factory, corner of Spring and Bartlett streets, is the onlyone of its kind in the State, and with about $2,000 invested turns out annually some $4,500 worth of wooden foot gear, all of which are made by hand. The odd looking tools, held in the right, are deftly twisted in, out and around the block of wood held in the left hand, resulting in the finished shoe, for which the demand is constantly increasing. The enterprise was started on a small scale in 1873, by J. H. Ter Braak, the present Superintendent, and increased until in June, I888, a factory 40 by 20 feet, with two floors, was required to turn out the "galoshes." About 12,000 pairs of wooden shoes were made in the city during the year I888. CIGARS AND TOBACCO. Henry Schmidt about I849 began rolling cigars in a small shop on the east side of Canal street, a little north of Pearl. As the business was not large enough to support him, he pieced it out by keeping a lunch counter whereon he served pies and cakes and small beer. Shortly after, Edward Mohl bought out his cigar stock and removed it north of Crescent avenue, but Mohl could make cigars faster than the customers in Grand Rapids would at that time buy and smoke, hence he gave it up, and for a while rusticated in the tobacco shops of Detroit and the East. About 1854 he came back and started anew; soon removing to the north end of the Lovett block, corner of Pearl and Canal streets, where in I859 he was established with a good stock in trade. At that time, three or four cigar makers along Canal street, were able to supply the market for the home-made article. Among them were P. V. Merrifield, M. J. Dunphy and Joseph Reinfried. In I865 Hugo Schneider came into partnership with Mohl, the establishment being moved around the corner, fronting Pearl street, and the company continued about nine years, in prosperous business. When the Government put a revenue tax on tobacco, which raised the price of cigars to ten cents each for moderately poor "weeds," a new impetus was given to the trade; in 1867 half a dozen cigar makers found busy employment, and Edward Mohl & Co. had begun wholesaling smokers' articles. This tobacco business in Grand Rapids has had a rapid growth during the last quarter of a century. In 1878 there were upward of two dozen manufacturers and dealers in the city. In I888 there were about thirty cigar-making shops in town, also fifteen retail and five wholesale dealers in cigars, tobaccos, pipes and other goods of the trade. Among the more prominent dealers at this time were H. Schneider & Co. and Ed. E. Mohl, on Monroe; Enterprise Cigar Co., corner Monroe and Division; Mohl & Van Alstine, corner of Pearl and Canal; Wm. Nelles, West Bridge; M. J. Lewis, and Brink Bros. & Quint, Grandville avenue, and C. G. Pulcher, Lustig Cigar Co. and J. E. Kenning & Co. on Canal street, the latter with fifteen employes. It is estimated that the home manufacture represents an aggregate investment of over $200,000, with' 135 employes, and an output in 1887 of $375,ooo. The house of Hugo Schneider & Co., east side of Monroe street near Pearl, does an extensive business in manufacturing, retailing and wholesaling or jobbing; dealing in everything which pertains to the tobacconist's trade. Edward Mohl, the real founder of tobacco manufacturing for the trade in Grand Rapids, was but a boy of twenty years when he came in 1849. He was of German 500 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. nativity, quiet and unassuming in deportment, yet an energetic and reliable business man, and highly esteemed. He filled several positions of honor in organized social life and was an officer of the Board of the German-English School Society. He prospered well in business, and built a substantial brick block, now standing, on Canal street, a little south of Bridge. He died suddenly by apoplexy, November i6, I874. Augustus Kuppenheimer, a practical workman, has been making cigars here upward of twenty years. A snug little factory is that of John J. Blickle, who has been a workman at the trade a dozen or more years. Albert Kuppenheimer, 45 Pearl street, has been doing a thrifty trade for man- years in tobacco and cigars. M. H. Treusch is among the wholesalers. INVENTIONS. In the domain of inventive talent and skill Grand Rapids would stand fairly in the front rank with any city of its size, were it practicable to make an inventory of the list of inventors and their products. Among the earlier instances may be mentioned Wm. B. Hill's patent steam governor, which quickly came into use all over the country. Chester B. Turner was an inventor of a number of useful contrivances in gunsmithing and steam engine making, and Demetrius Turner also originated several valuable devices in connection with steam machinery. The patent bent-work barrel of D. H. Waters, was a pronounced success financially. Thirty years ago an ingenious compensating clock pendulum was patented by W. L. Coffinberry. In recent years there have been many inventions by Grand Rapids mechanics and experts, in nearly all trades; to enumerate which would be impracticable, and to make a partial enumeration would be unsatisfactory. Most of them are useful, and some very profitable. FIRE LADDER AND TRUCK. The Michigan Fire Ladder and Truck Company was incorporated February 20, I888, by John W. Moon, President; James Campbell, Vice President; A. Owen Crozier, Secretary and Treasurer; A. J. Sutherland, Superintendent; with Arthur Meigs, M. C. Lewis, R. M. Swigart and John W. Pennell. Capital, $ oo,ooo. The factory, situated at Oakdale Park, south of the city, consists of two large buildings of wood veneered with brick, equipped with all machinery necessary for the manufacture of a combined fire truck and ladder, and other fire apparatus. This ladderis a Grand Rapids invention of more than passing merit. Four men easily elevate it sixty-five feet in less than half a minute, and as it stands on a swivel bolt, it may be tilted in any direction and used where it would be impossible to operate an ordinary ladder. DUST BLOWERS. The Grand Rapids Blow Pipe and Dust Arrester Company was incorporated February 4, i888, with an authorized capital of $25,000-Wilder D. Stevens, President; Joseph B. Ware, Vice President; George G. Whitworth, Secretary; Sidney F. Stevens, Treasurer. They manufacture Barbour's patent dust arrester and furnace feeder, by using which the owner of any wood working mill may economize in expense, utilizing the dust and refuse of the several machines and conveying it in a steady stream under the boiler. The factory, giving employment to some twenty-five men, is situated on Mill street, near Bridge. BASE BALL AND CROQUET SETS. H. Rademaker & Sons established in June, 1878, the manufacture of base ball bats, croquet sets, Indian clubs, and other sporting goods. They occupy the basement of the New Era block on Waterloo street; give employment to some thirty-five men, and with an investment of $20,000, send their goods to all the principal cities in the United States to the extent of about $40,000 annually. PORTABLE HOUSES. The Grand Rapids Portable House Company is a partnership between William H. Cray, Edwin Densmore, William D. Pugh, Edward P. Chamberlin and James A. Pugh, with a capital of $io,ooo, for the manufacture of the Densmore Portable Cottage, patented May ii, i886, to take the place of tents with camping parties. Starting with this, the business has increased until they have not only an active demand for that, but for larger and more substantial cottages for summer resorts, and in warmer climates for dwelling houses the year round. The annual output is about $60,ooo, and BOAT BUILDING-OTHER MANUFACTURES. 501 goes to nearly all parts of the world. They have in their employ about fifteen men, and their wage roll is $450 or upward per month. The establishment is at i6 Prescott street. BOAT BUILDERS. Boat building ranks among the earliest of the trades pursued here. The Indians worked at it, before white men came, and the lightness and elegance of their canoes attest their skill ana painstaking patience in the art. And about the first thing that the white trader and settler did was to build for himself a skiff or row'boat or scow. Then came the pole-boats, of which Richard Godfroy had several built before 1837. In the village days, and later, nearly a dozen points along the east bank of the river were at some time occupied as shipyards. The first and several others of the steamboats for the river traffic were built and launched here; also the hulls of some vessels for the great lakes, and a considerable number of boats for the Illinois Canal. Early residents now living remember such men as Jennings, Short, Corbin, Parish, McAllister, Meddler, and others, among ship carpenters here within the twelve or fifteen years after the settlement, who took part in fashioning steamboats and other large water craft. T. H. Truscott, in 1876, commenced building boats at Reeds Lake, and after about three years moved to the west side of the river, on Stocking street. In 1885 the firm of T. H. Truscott & Sons was formed, and at 274 North Front street put out from $2,000 to $3,000 worth of boats annually, which they estimate to be about one-sixth of the capacity of their works. The making of small boats, as a business, was begun as early as i866, by Alcott Caldwell, who followed the trade nearly continuously for some twenty years, on the east bank of the river south of Fulton street. In I888 appears the name of James Hoey as a boat builder on South Jefferson street. SHOW CASES. The manufacture of show cases has been carried on for several years by Heyman & Company, now at 63 and 65 Canal street. In this line of work not a very heavy business has yet been done in Grand Rapids; but by its excellence of quality and finish it has attracted attention and an increasing trade at home and abroad. Another show case factory is operated at io6 Kent street, by Frank Cook, who puts up the article in metal as well as wood frames, and has a thrifty business. The enterprise was started in 1886, by his father, D. D. Cook, and turned over to him January i, 1889. He also makes a specialty of manufacturing cashier desks. HOOP SKIRT MAKING. When the bell-shaped hoop skirts were at their widest spread, a quarter of a century ago, their manufacture in Grand Rapids was begun. Jacob Barth made spiral-spring skirts at 35 Monroe street, and continued to do so for many years, at times giving employment to a large number of hands. Another manufacturer was J. W. Simonds, on South Division street, for a considerable time, beginning about i877. Of late the business is not very balloonish in proportions; though there is still some bustle. SAW WORKS. Saw sharpening as a trade by itself has not many representatives. But James L. Pitts, a practical saw maker and repairer, came to Grand Rapids nearly thirty years ago and has been industriously filing and setting and cutting saw teeth ever since. In 1867 Pitts & Markham had a shop by the foot of Huron street. In 1876 Mr. Pitts had a somewhat extensive shop and factory at the corner of Pearl and Campau streets. He is still at work, in a moderate way, on Kent street, north of Crescent avenue. Two or three others have been engaged in the business for a less time. OIL REFINING. About 1863 R. E. Butterworth started an oil refinery. His works were between the east bank of the river and the foot of the canal. The price of kerosene oil was reduced to forty cents a gallon. The experiment resulted in showing that Grand Rapids was too far away from petroleum sources for profitable work in that line, and the enterprise was abandoned. WOODEN PUMPS. From about I86i to 1876, or a little later, was the era of wooden pumps. They were in much demand for use on farms and at country taverns. F. B. Day and S. N. Edie & Company were the principal manufactur 502 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. ers at first, and then C. B. Clark and brother. The shops were by the Canal, between Bridge and Huron streets. At one time the output amounted to near $20,000 a year. They were sent out in peddling wagons, to the country about. The wooden pump is mostly supplanted by other kinds of late, and the manufacture has gone to the workers in iron, steel and brass. S. L. Munroe and H. C. Taft, on Seventh street, have a busy little factory. BILLIARD TABLES. A. B. Drew has for several years followed the business of setting up and repairing billiard tables, and similar furniture. His shop was on Canal street, and recently removed to Pearl. THE BOTTLING BUSINESS. The bottling of soda waters and other sparkling beverages was.begun on West Bridge street in 1856, by Wm. R. Scribner; and the pop business has been kept going by somebody ever since. J. B. Folger & Sons have followed it continuously nearly twenty years, their establishment being located on Broadway. The Spa Bottling Company (Mills & Lacey and others), in 1882 opened an establishment for bottling mineral and acidulated waters on Kent street, which did a thriving business. In I888 it was at 173 and 175 South Front street, P. J. Schroeffel, proprietor, putting up ginger ale and mineral water for the trade. Half a dozen of these soda, pop and beer bottling shops in 1887 employed a capital of $40,000, and turned off a product of $ 18,ooo, giving work to upward of thirty employes. Wm. A. Clark, on South Division street, has a brisk trade in bottled beverages. GRAVEL AND FELT ROOFS. The use of gravel roofs, with tar or asphalt for cement upon a foundation of prepared paper or felt, began here in I858, or perhaps a year or two earlier. Josiah L. Wheeler in that year put such a roof on the Taylor & Barns block. He was the first to make a specialty of "fire and water proof" roofing of that sort. Since about I868 Her bert M. Reynolds, with shop on Pearl street, has carried on the business of gravel and felt roofing continuously. He came to Grand Rapids from Niles. Asphalt paving also constitutes part of his business. HERBERT MORTON REYNOLDS was born at Auburn, N. Y, June I2, 1836. His father, Jehiel M. Reynolds, was born in Tompkins county, N. Y., October Io, 1812. His mother (now living and a member of his household) was Lavinia Clough, born at Homer, Cortland county, N. Y., August 5, 1812. Mr. Reynolds comes of patriotic stock. Some of his ancestors fought for liberty in the Revolutionary War, and his grandfather, Jedediah Reynolds, was a soldier in the War of 1812. In 1844 his father and family moved to Erie, Pa., and from that place, in I850, to Adrian, Michigan, and three years later returned to Erie, where the father died. Herbert M. Reynolds had in his boyhood such educational advantages as the schools of the places mentioned afforded. When his father died he was sixteen years old, and on him devolved the support of his mother and two sisters, and the education of the latter, a duty which he performed with manly fidelity. He procured employment in a wholesale drug establishment, but, that being not suited to his taste and ambition, he relinquished it to engage in other mercantile pursuits. Subsequently the family moved to Kingsville, Ohio, and to better fit himself for successful business life he entered the academy there. After leaving that institution he returned to Adrian and served an apprenticeship at stone cutting. This occupation he followed for some time, at Adrian, Hillsdale and Constantine. Active, earnest and alert to advance in the world, he entered later the employ of a large lumber firm at Louisville, Ky., and next learned photography, which he pursued as a business in Western Pennsylvania, then in Cincinnati, and again at Niles, Mich., where he resided at the outbreak of the Civil War in I86I. At this juncture the loyalty and patriotism inherited from his ancestry stirred his pulses, and he enlisted in the Twelfth Michigan Volunteer Infantry, and was made Color Sergeant. At the front this regiment was assigned to Gen. Prentiss' Division of the Army of the Tennessee under General Grant. At Pittsburg Landing this division was given a central position. At the battle of Shiloh, April 6, 1862, the Confederate General Albert Sidney Johnston hurled the flower of his forces against the center of the Union Army, and Gen. Prentiss' Division was the first to receive the shock of that terrific ^^^^^^^^/~~~~~~1 HERBERT M; REYNOLDS -WOOD-WORKING SHOP. 503 onset. In that battle Mr. Reynolds was terribly wounded; a bullet entering his body near the lower rib, passing through and coming out at the back, carrying away a piece of the process of the spinal column. He lay upon the battle field twenty-six hours, and was then taken to the enemy's headquarters near Corinth. The nature of his wound was such that his death was deemed inevitable, and it was not until Saturday, six days after the battle,.that it was dressed. The Brigade Surgeon proposed to the Confederate officers in charge of the Union prisoners the exchange of thirty badly wounded soldiers, man for man. This was agreed to. The wounded ones returned by the exchange were placed on a sanitary boat furnished by the citizens of Louisville, and sent to that place. Mr. Reynolds lay in hospital for weeks; it was a desperate case, with the odds seemingly against him; but a remarkable vitality, and will power, and courage of the highest type, supplemented with good surgical skill and careful nursing, saved his life. Among the ladies of Louisville true to the Union cause and aiding in the care of the wounded soldiers, was the noble wife of the late Judge James Speed (Attorney General in Lincoln's second Cabinet), from whom the subject of this sketch received many marks of sympathy and kindly attention. When sufficiently recovered to travel, Mr. Reynolds returned to Niles, Michigan, and rapidly regained strength. The rebellion was not subdued; more calls for soldiers to battle for the integrity of the Nation were made; and notwithstanding he had already so nearly given his life in the cause, Mr. Reynolds, in August, I862, again enlisted, in the Nineteenth Michigan Infantry, then organizing at Dowagiac. While in camp there he was made Commissary Sergeant; and when a vacancy occurred was commissioned Second Lieutenant. Subsequently he was appointed Post and Brigade Commissary at Guy's Gap and McMinsville, Tennessee, occupying that position until the spring of 1864. Upon the reorganization of the army for the Atlanta Campaign, he was transferred to the staff of Gen. John Coburn as Aid-deCamp, and served in that capacity from Chattanooga to Atlanta. By reason of two slight wounds, and a severe injury caused by the fall of his horse, he was ordered by Gen. Coburn into hospital at Louisville. Afterward he was detailed and placed in charge of ordnance at Barracks No. I in that city, and served in that position until the close of the war. Returning to Michigan, he obtained a position in the Postoffice at Niles, and afterward for a time was Mail Agent between Detroit and Chicago. In I866 he was agent of the Merchants' Union Express Company at Paw Paw, Michigan, which position he held until its consolidation with the American Express Company in i868. Looking then for a place wherein to settle in business on his own account, he selected Grand Rapids, and decided to engage in roofing. From a small beginning, through perseverence and patience he has built up a business of which he may justly be proud. Under his management it has not only kept pace with the wonderful growth of the city durthese twenty-one years, but extended widely outside. His operations cover a large extent of territory in and about the Grand River Valley, and extend also to numerous other important points in this Peninsula, and to cities in Wisconsin, Indiana and Illinois. Among those who know Mr. Reynolds personally and well, he is recognized as a man of broad and liberal views, of energy, tact, sterling integrity and generous impulses; a public spirited citizen, and ready also to extend a helping hand, if in his power, when misfortune overtakes a friend. May 23, 1863, he married Anna E. Glenn, daughter of Thomas T. and Sarah Glenn of Niles, who were among the pioneers in the Territory in I834. Four sons have been born to them, all of whom are living, namely: Harry Morton, Charles Henry, Herbert Glenn and Lewis Seal Reynolds. He has a modest neat, yet commodious dwelling at 163 Ransom street-a home of taste and comfort. And he has done his full, fair share in the upbuilding of this handsome and ambitious town during the period of his residence therein. GENERAL WOOD-WORK SHOP. C. B. Clark, who conducts a general job shop at the corner of Pearl and Front streets, in matching, planing, turned work, door and window frames, has been a resident of Grand Rapids from boyhood-fifty years. He uses a capital of about $5,ooo and employs a dozen men. 50,t HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. ALDINE FIRE-PLACE. Among the lately established industries is the manufacture of the Aldine Patent FirePlace, said to be adaptable to use in all sorts of buildings for warming and ventilating. The factory is at the corner of Court street and Shawmut avenue, and appears to be doing a prosperous business. FLAVORING EXTRACTS. Charles W. Jennings began the manufacture of flavoring extracts, perfumes, and similar articles, in 1872. The business is still prosecuted, on Louis street, by him and Walter A. Smith (Arotic Manufacturing Company). Another factory of several years standing is that of F. D. Yale & Co., on South Division street. The business in the city has grown to considerable importance, giving work to some twenty-five employes, and turning out a product valued at over $I40,000 annually. ICE AND FUEL. Thomas Sargeant began sprinkling the' streets of Grand Rapids at an early date; the merchants footing the bill by subscriptions of a certain amount per week. To this business was soon added the storage of ice for supplying summer customers, and his two sons (twins) continued it many years. Supplies of firewood in the early days were furnished by the farmers near by; but in more recent years the handling of stove wood has become a large business in the aggregate. Among prominent dealers have been G. H. Behnke, S. A. Winchester, S. P. Bennett and others. The handling of coal in large quantities did not begin until about 1865, when James O. Fitch gave the trade a start by importing several carload lots. S. P. Bennett has been continuously in coal, wood and ice business since about I869; also the Valley City Ice and Coal Company and A. B. Knowlson for some years. SPICES AND OTHER CONDIMENTS. The manufacture of spices, baking powders and extracts, and trade in teas, coffees and other table goods, was established by Edward Telfer in I885, and two years later the Telfer Spice Company was organized: Edward Telfer, President and Treasurer; Henry Idema, Vice President; Peter Lankester, Secretary. Capital $50,000. They occupy a store by the foot of Pearl street, near the bridge, and the business has a promising growth. GREASE REFINERY. A newly established enterprise is that of E. B. Wright, whose works are north of the city and between the railroad tracks and the river. The business is the refining of tallow and lard, and the production of oils and the refined articles for commerce; also the manufacture of fertilizer from bones and refuse stuffs. Office at 16 North Waterloo street. The works were built in I889. ALABASTINE. The Alabastine Company was organized in New York, in I879, by Melvin B. Church, its present manager. It has offices in this city, and mills outside. Alabastine is an article of which calcined gypsum is the base, made to take the place of calcimine in wall coatings and finish. DIAMOND WALL FINISH. This is another product for coating walls, made also of calcined gypsum, sand and other materials which render it plastic and adhesive. The Diamond Wall Finish Company was organized in I883-Freeman Godfrey, President; F. Noble, Secretary; S. F. Godfrey, Treasurer, and Loren Day, Manager. It has salesrooms at the corner of Ottawa and Louis streets. CHAPTER XLIV. FARM, GARDEN AND STOCK. THE cultivation of the soil at Grand Rapids was begun by the Indians. A report of, a surveyor made to the General Land Office Commissioner in 1838, contained this statement: "All the grounds on the front of sections 24 and 25 are cleared, and have been occupied by the Indians as cornfields from time immemorial." This has reference to the grounds on the west bank of the river, for a mile north and south of Bridge street -the report mentioned being that of a survey of the Indian mission lands. The methods of cultivation employed by the natives were crude, but it is evident that they raised corn before the whites brought any "corn juice" among them. The first plowing by white settlers was doubtless done at Grandville, by Luther Lincoln, and in the year 1833 several of the pioneers broke ground in Grand Rapids, Wyoming and Paris. Louis Campau had a garden on ground south of Monroe and West of Waterloo street, cultivated by hand labor. The first plowing within the site of this city was done in the spring of I834, by Joel Guild, for Mr. Campau-about three and a half acres lying below Division and between Monroe and Fulton streets. Mr. Guild also in 1834-35 cleared, broke and planted eight or ten acres of ground east of the public square on what is now known as Kendall's addition. There was much diversity, originally, in the quality of soils hereabout, but they responded to the work of the farmer, and the first crops of wheat, corn, potatoes or garden produce were usually good. As late as I86o there were sixtynine occupied farms within the limits of the city, having an estimated value of $375,040. Among the products returned from the farms within the city that year, were 1,629 bushels of wheat, 2,921 bushels of corn, 3,742 bushels of potatoes, 400 tons of hay, I2,604 pounds of butter, and $I,575 worth of orchard products. 50 In Kent County the census of 1884 shows 5,246 farms, including 282,163 acres improved, and I40,I28 unimproved. The estimated value of farms in the county, including fences and buildings, in 1884, was $18,522, 117; value of farm implements and machinery, $781,893; value of live stock, $2, I91,988. Amount paid for wages in 1883, for out door farm labor, $387,595; expenditures for indoor and dairy labor, $6o,6oi; estimated value of products, $2,618,372. Among farm products of the county in that year were 50,000 pounds of honey, 1,320 pounds of wax, 161,569 bushels of apples, and 41,592 bushels of peaches. The orchard products of 1883 were valued at $164,658. The forest product, mostly of wood sold or consumed, was valued at $256,719. In I850 the number of farms returned in Kent county was 885; wheat raised same year, 69,300 bushels; number of horses, 791. In 1840 238 horses were returned, and 18,750 bushels of wheat. In 1884 the number of horses was I5,459. The area of Kent County is estimated to be 545,657 acres; of the State, 58,915 square miles, or 36,443,346. 2 acres. Prominent among the Grand Rapids dealers in seeds and accompanying agricultural and garden supplies in recent years has been William T. Lamoreaux, at 71 Canal street. Philip Kusterer, at 120 Canal, has also done a handsome business in that line for many years. M. L. Sweet & Co. have been steady dealers in grain and seeds for upward of thirty years. NURSERIES. The history of horticulture in Kent County begins in the garden of Louis Campau, as early as 1834, which he made attractive by the cultivation of flowers, shrubbery and small fruits. This was by the river bank, just below the foot of Monroe street. In 506 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. 1836 Abel Page and John Almy started gardens near the river, above Huron street. In Mr. Page's garden the first tomatoes were raised, grown as ornamental plants, and called love-apples. Only one person, the school teacher, would eat them, as they were generally considered poisonous. In 1838 Mr. Page moved, and planted another garden and nursery on East Bridge street hill, above Ionia street, occupying two or three acres of ground. There also he grew Morus Mul/icaulis and raised silk worms, dealing in the cocoons. He raised Rohan potatoes that would weigh two pounds, and sold them at the rate of $15 or more per bushel. He and his sons gathered from the woods, gooseberries, currants, raspberries, blackberries and plums, which they transferred to this nursery, and improved upon the wild plants by cultivation. They raised melons and cranberries, and the garden was a favorite resort for those who wished a feast of fruit. In 1845 Mr. Page and his sons started a nursery north of Coldbrook, where for many years they kept a stock of upward of 200,000 young fruit trees. From the first Mammoth Pie-plant brought into the county in I850, Mr. Page procured a slip for $i, the next year sold $5 worth of plants, and two years afterward sold to S. L. Withey for $2 enough pie-plant for an Independence dinner. Samuel White brought a Lombardy poplar and planted it near the head of Stocking street, from which Mr. Page soon procured sprouts and largely replenished his nursery. Abel T. Page, about I845, secured a quantity of seeds of the yellow locust, which were planted at their nursery, and realized for them, in a few years, several thousand dollars. Abel T. Page is a native of Rutland, Vermont, born April 15, 1829. At seven years of age he came with his father's family to Grand Rapids; attended the early village schools and afterward the Grand Rapids Academy, and assisted his father in horticulture and the establishment of the first nursery of much note in Kent County, which he managed by himself for some three years after the death of his father in 1854. After 1857 he followed farming for a time, then the grocery trade and finally settled down to dealing in real estate, which he follows with fairly good success. He is and has been a valued member and earnest worker in several religious, social and humanitarian associations; was among the founders of the Westminster Presbyterian Church, and is now in active, busy life. Truman Kellogg came in 1837, and started a farm and established a small nursery of seedling trees on Lake avenue, near where now is the east line of the city. He had a decided taste for horticulture and set out a variety of fruits. For some time his was among the favorite nurseries of this region, in the supply of apples, peaches, plums and small fruits, though he did not have much grafted stock. He also planted two or three acres with the Morus Multicalius shrub, and manufactured silk, specimens of which are yet in possession of the family. George M. Barker in 1845 had a small nursery on West Bridge street near the city limits. Barney Burton, as early as i836, started a nursery of seedling trees, on his farm in Paris, now the Garfield place. Charles W. Garfield has in his garden perhaps the oldest apple tree in the county, planted by Mr. Burton, the body of which is nearly two feet in diameter, while the top has a spread of near forty feet. Thomas R. Renwick, as long ago as 1867, had a floral nursery and green-house on Crescent avenue near Barclay street, and has up to the present time been a steady and persistent cultivator of flowers, with special attention to exotics and rare varieties. About i850 and several years thereafter, George C. Nelson had a fine fruit and garden shrub nursery on the north side of Cherry street about where Union street now is. STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. The State Agricultural Society was organized March 23, I849, and its first fair was held at Detroit in September of that year, with a premium list of $i,ooo. Its fairs were held in Detroit until and including 1862. Since then they have been held at Kalamazoo, Adrian, Detroit, Jackson, East Saginaw, and in 1873 at Grand Rapids. In 1872 the State Fair was held at Kalamazoo, during the same week with that of the Northern Michigan Agricultural and Mechanical Society at Grand Rapids. There was a strong rivalry between the two exhibitions, the result being a coalition, and the holding of the State Fair here in 1873, as just men STATE AGRICULTURAL AND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETIES. 507 tioned. No fair of the State Agricultural Society has been held nearer to Grand Rapids than at Kalamazoo since that date. Henry Fralick of Grand Rapids is among its ex-presidents. N. M. A. AND M. SOCIETY. May I6, 1871, upon call of the executive officers of the Kent County Agricultural and State Pomological Societies, a large number of representative men of Western and Northern Michigan, interested in the project, met at Sweet's Hotel in Grand Rapids, and organized the Northern Michigan Agricultural and Mechanical Society. By the articles of association its object was declared to be "to foster and promote the interests of agriculture, horticulture, and the mechanic arts, and kindred arts and sciences." For officers they elected: President, George W. Griggs, of Kent; Secretary, Henry S. Clubb, of Ottawa; Treasurer, Charles Kipp, of Clinton. A Board of Directors, one for each county, was chosen; C. C. Comstock being the Director for Kent. The association thus organized included all except the two southern tiers of counties in the State. Its first annual fair was held September I2-I5, 187I, on the fair grounds,at Grand Rapids, in conjunction with that of the Michigan Pomological Society; the Kent Society foregoingits annual exhibition as such, and joining in the "Union Fair." The fair proved a great success, leaving in the treasury a balance of several hundred dollars, and valuable buildings erected upon the grounds. Another Union Fair was held upon the same ground September I6-20, 1872, at which time in competition the State Society held its annual fair in Kalamazoo. Nevertheless great crowds were in attendance, and Grand Rapids fairly held its own. In 1873 this society was consolidated with and became merged in the State Agricultural Society. STATE POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. February 26, 1870, the State Pomological Society of Michigan was organized at Grand Rapids. President, R. G. Saunders; Secretary, A. T. Linderman; Treasurer, S. L. Fuller. At the annual meeting in December, J. P. Thompson was chosen President, and served for two years. Succeeding Presidents were: A S. Dyckman, of South Haven, for I873-74; George Parmelee, of Old Mission, for I875; T. T. Lyon, of South Haven, for I876, and re-elected every year to and including 1887. The Secretaries have been-A. T. Linderman in I87I, re-elected for 1872; J. P. Thompson, 1873-75, and since I875 Charles W. Garfield. S. L. Fuller resigned the office of Treasurer, June 25, 1873, and Henry Seymour was appointed to fill out the term, and re-elected for the succeeding two years. H. Dale Adams was chosen Treasurer for 1876, and the two years following, and was succeeded by S. M. Pearsall in I878, re-elected every year to i888. The name of the society was changed in i88o to the. MICHIGAN STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. The first annual fair of this society was held in connection with that of the Kent County Agricultural Society, on the grounds of the latter at Grand Rapids, and its second, third and fourth were held at the same place; but in 1874 and since, its annual fairs have been held in connection with those of the State Agricultural Society, and its other meetings have been movable from place to place about the State. On September 9-I I, i885, the American Pomological Society held its first biennial meeting at Grand Rapids. Its sessions were held at the First Universalist Church, and the exhibit of fruits was made at the Armory on North Division street. The display was excellent, showing nearly a thousand plates, beside individual collections. The society was heartily welcomed and entertained in behalf of the city and the Michigan State Horticultural Society, and the meeting was a very enjoyable one to all parties. At this session Charles W. Garfield was elected Secretary of the American Pomological Society. Since I870, on the high grounds near Grand Rapids, the cultivation of peaches has been quite as successful as in any part of the State, and the cultivation of apples in this vicinity is also profitable. The principal nursery hereabout is the large one of Munson & Knapp in Grand Rapids township, comprising about thirty acres of ground. The fruits of this region have been awarded a considerable number of premiums by the orchard committee of the State Pomological Society. First premiums to Grand Rapids people in 1871 were awarded-to David Robertson for Delaware Vineyard; George S. Linderman for half 508 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. acre plat of raspberries, also for a similar plat of blackberries; to John Suttle for a general greenhouse; to Mrs. E. T. Nelson for a private conservatory. In I872-first premiums to S. B. Smith for an apple orchard; H. W. Slocum for collection of hardy grapes; Mrs. R. W. Morris for ornamental city lot; second premium to E. U. Knapp, for peach orchard for profit; C. J. Dietrich, for half-acre of raspberries. In 1873, J. M. Dean, first for peach orchard for profit, second for vineyard for table use; to John Suttle first, and T. R. Renwick second, for commercial plant house. At the centennial exhibit of the State Pomological Society at Philadelphia, the Grand River Valley Horticultural Society contributed a general collection of fruit, which elicited much commendation. Jonathan P. Thompson, who was Secretary of the State Horticultural Society for several years prior to I880, was a very energetic member and organizer, and an enthusiast with respect to fruit culture. He died at Detroit in I880. He had been well known as a resident of Grand Rapids to which place he came in 1856, and engaged as editor of the Enquirer, and was connected with the press here for about four years, after which he went east. About I868 he returned, and for three or four years was connected with the Eagle as one of the editorial staff. The remainder of his life was devoted chiefly to the promotion of the interests of horticulture and pomclogy in the State, and upon his death the State Society adopted resolutions of tribute to his memory, and directed the procuring of his portrait to be placed among the archives. Charles W. Garfield was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, March 14, 1848; came to Paris, Kent County, Michigan, with his parents, in I858; settled on the Barney Burton farm, one mile south of Hall street, the present city limit; was alternately in the schools and on the farm until seventeen years of age; taught school, attended the Grand Rapids High school a year; entered the State Agricultural College at Lansing in I868 and graduated from there in I870. He then turned his attention to horticulture, spent a year at Painesville, Ohio, with a nursery firm; returned to Grand Rapids and was here engaged in the nursery trade until I873. He next, until 1877, had a position in the Horticultural Department of the State Agricultural College, and was four years in charge of the farm department of the Detroit Free Press. From I875 to I889 he was Secretary of the State Horticultural Society, and then became a member of the Executive Board. In I885 he was elected Secretary of the American Pomological Society. He is studious, scholarly, and a tireless worker, and exhibits a specially lively interest in all that pertains to horticulture and fruits. His reports of the transactions of the State Horticultural Society comprise several volumes of much merit and value. He is President (1889) of the Grand River Valley Horticultural Society. GRAND RIVER VALLEY HORTICUI,TUR. L SOCIETY. The State Horticultural Society having become practically merged in the State Agricultural Society, and the fruit growers of this region having reached the conclusion that another organization was needed, more attentive to their interests, the Grand River Valley Horticultural Society was organized February TO, 1874, at Grand Rapids-President, E. Bradfield; Vice President, H. H. Holt; Secretary, (. J. Dietrich; Treasurer, George W. Dickinson. Executive Committee: H. H. Holt, William Rowe, C. N. Merriman and John Suttle. The articles of association required that monthly meetings be held at Grand Rapids, and that special ones might be held at other places. The counties included within the sphere of its work were Kent, Montcalm, Ionia, Barry, Allegan, Ottawa and Muskegon. With its own special field of operation this society may be regarded as in some sense an outgrowth from and auxiliary to the State Society. Its meetings have been kept up with much regularity, and it has had a prosperous and successful career. The annual exhibits of fruits and flowers by this society, have been held in connection with the annual fairs of the Kent County Agricultural Society. In the fall of 1879 it made exhibits at a meeting of the American Pomological Society at Rochester, N. Y., also at the Michigan State Fair at Detroit, and at that of the Western Michigan Agricultural and Industrial Society at Grand Rapids. Fifty-four varieties of apples were sent to Rochester, in charge of Edward Bradfield of Ada, who added a fine display HORTICULTURAL AND AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES. 509 of grapes, chiefly from his own vineyard, and for this collection the bronze Wilder medal was awarded to the society. It was also fairly successful in winning premiums at the other exhibits that year. In i880 the society made a collection of fruits, including upward of one hundred varieties of apples and twenty-five varieties of peaches, which it exhibited at St. Louis, in charge of William Rowe and William N. Cook, and which received marked attention and special compliment from the officers of the Mississippi Valley Horticultural Society. At other prominent fairs in the same year, and generally during its entire existence, where this society has made exhibitions of the fruit and flower products of the Grand River Valley, it has taken first premiums. It contributed freely to the State display of fruits in the winter of I882-83 at the New Orleans Exposition. In i886, upon the invitation of this society, the State Society held its annual meeting in Grand Rapids, when was made an unusually fine flower and plant exhibit, also fruits from California. Among the officers of this association have been: Presidents-William Rowe, I878-81; Henry Holt, 1882; Charles W. Garfield, 1883 and since. Secretaries-William N. Cook, 1878-82; R. D. Graham, 1883-85; G. C. Bennett, i886; Wm. N. Cook, I887 -88. Treasurers-S. L. Fuller, I878-85, Wm. N. Cook, i886; E. Chase Phillips, 1887 88. Officers for I889-President, Charles W. Garfield; Vice President, Joseph A. Pierce; Secretary, Thomas L. Brown; Treasurer, E. Chase Phillips; Executive Board —Sluman S. Bailey, W. E. Calkins, W. N. Cook and John Saylor. KENT COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. January 12, 1848, an association, in which Horace Seymour was a prominent and active worker, was organized in the township of Walker under the comprehensive title of "The Walker Agricultural Society of Kent County." October 27, 1848, this society held a fair at the west end of the Bridge street bridge, at which premiums aggregating $31.75 were awarded. The display was an attractive one for those days. Addresses were delivered by the Rev. Joseph Penney and Dr. A. C. Westlake. At the next annual meeting the name was changed to "Grand River Valley Agricultural Society." Its membership included residents on both sides of the river. The second annual fair was held October 9, i849, at the Court House on the Public Square; subsequent fairs were held there or at the corner of Fulton street and Jefferson avenue for some years. The display of farm produce in 1849 was thought very fine. Mammoth pumpkins and squashes, enormous beats and turnips, and stalks of corn that reached from floor to ceiling of the court room, were among the exhibits; while tied to the trees near about, or inclosed in pens, were numbers of fine looking cattle, sheep and hogs. The mechanics of the village joined in the show, and the ladies, with specimens of their handiwork. A chair of the style then known as the Boston rocker, which took premium at that fair is now in possession of Mrs. Julia A. Baxter, of South Division street, as strong and serviceable apparantly as when it was made. The Rev. James Ballard delivered an address on the occasion, at the Congregational Church. January 6, i851, the name of the organization was again changed, to "Kent County Agricultural Society" - George Young, President; Damon Hatch, Secretary. In i855 the Kent County fair was held on grounds north of Wealthy avenue and west of Division street. In December of that year, the society purchased a forty-acre tract just south of the city, where its fairgrounds have since been and are at present located. In I850 its premium list amounted to $37. In I85I the premiums aggregated $76; in 1852, $80; in 1854, $92.75. In that year W. S. H. Welton was elected President and Sluman S. Bailey Secretary. In 1855 the fair was held for three days, September 25, 26 and 27. The ground purchased in that year has been much improved and built upon. A set of rules and regulations and a much larger premium list than ever before were adopted in i856, and this spirit of order combined with liberality has since prevailed in the transactions of the society. Its annual exhibits were increasingly large and attractive and regularly given until 1879, since which time the use of its grounds has been granted to the W. M. A. and I. Society. In the mechanical and trades departments the displays yearly made by the traders and manufacturers of the city were especially good. At the county fairs of 1863 and 1864 entertainments for raising funds in behalf of 510 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. soldiers' aid societies were added to the usual features, with a good degree of success. The following is nearly a full list of the principal officers of the society: Presidents - 1848, D. Schermerhorn; I850, Obed H. Foote; i851, George Young; I852, J. F. Chubb; 1853, Solomon Wright; I855, W. S. H. Welton; I857, Henry Seymour; 1859, Slunan S. Bailey; 1864, E. U. Knapp; I865, Warren P. Mills; i868, George W. Griggs (remained in the position several years); I874-76, Aaron Brewer, 1878 and since, Levi Averill. Secretaries - 1848, Horace Seymour; I850, Damon Hatch; I853, Henry Seymour; 1854, Sluman S. Bailey; i856, Timothy E. Wetmore; 1857, E. M. Ball; I859, O. R. L. Crozier; 1864, L. R. Atwater; i865, L. S. Scranton; 1868, Jacob Barns, 1871, Eseck Burlingame; 1874 and since, James Cox. Treasurers —I848, Sullivan Armstrong; 1850, T. D. French; 185I, Andrew Loomis; I856, J. F. Chubb; I857, G. C. Fitch; 1864, G. S. Deane; 1865, John Porter; 1869, 0. H. Simonds; 1874, F. W. Foster; 1885 and since, Aaron Brewer. WESTERN MICHIGAN AGRICULTURAL AND INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY. The Agricultural and Mechanical Association of 1871 having been absorbed by the State Society, a new organization of similar character was formed in May, 1879, with headquarters at Grand Rapids, under the name of Western Michigan Agricultural and Industrial Society, which has held fairs annually on the Kent County Fair Grounds, in September, down to the present time. This has been a very successful association financially and otherwise, its annual exhibits being scarcely second to those of the State Society. Its district comprises nearly all of the western half of the State, from Van Buren County north to the Straits. At its first fair in I879, out of receipts amounting to $I6,6II.44, it realized a surplus of $2,974.85. In I88I itssurpluswas$4,415.35. The sum increased until it had at the end of i888, $9,581.61 in its treasury. The annual expositions of this society have been very attractive and popular shows, to which competitors come with their mechanical products, horses and other live stock, not only from all parts of Michigan, but from neighboring States. The attendance is always large and the premiums are liberal. Grand Rapids mechanics, manufacturers and merchants delight in exhibiting their products, goods and wares, making of the ground a veritable bazaar, to the delight and entertainment of all visitors. George W. Thayer was its first President, serving five years; after him David P. Clay was President for three years. In 1887 H. C. Sherwood was chosen President, and served until his death in August, I888. He was succeeded by J. G. Ramsdell, followed in 1890 byGeorgeW. Thayer. James Cox has been Secretary continuously since the organization of the society, and Edmund B. Dikeman has likewise filled the position of Treasurer. Among other prominent and active workers of the society in the city and vicinity, are S. S. Bailey, John H. Withey, Z. V. Cheney, M. L. Sweet and Levi Averill. WEST MICHIGAN FARMERS' CLUB. An association that is among the best of its kind in its educational features, with its headquarters here, is the West Michigan Farmers' Club, organized August 23, i88i. Its first officers were: President, Wm. T. Adams, of Paris; Vice Presidents, Lyman Murray, of Sparta; Henry C. Denison, of Ada; George Van Nest, of Byron; Nathan Gould, of Oakfield; Secretary and Librarian, Frank M. Carroll; Recorder, Edmund Manly; Treasurer, George Porter. The officers for 1889 are: President, George S. Linderman; Vice Presidents, W. W. Johnson, of Grand Rapids township; E. F. Bosworth, of Georgetown; S. S. Bailey, of East Paris; E. U. Knapp, of Grand Rapids township; Secretary and Treasurer, Samuel L. Fuller. The objects of this society are to advance the interests of farming and fruit culture, and stimulate improvement therein. There is no other school hereabout so well adapted to the education of the classes interested. The members hold regular monthly meetings for discussion, and by their earnestness and persevering enthusiasm demonstrate their intellectual as well as physical strength. No branch of the farm or fruit-growing industry is neglected. Their club work is systemized, always with some important topic in the foreground; and as their talks and discussions are quite fully reported through the press, their influence must be greatly beneficial to thousands I I WEST MICHIGAN FARMERS' CLUB -EDWARD L. BRIGGS. 511 of others who read and learn. A society of such character and spirit should not be allowed to die out, nor to slacken its efforts. It is valuable to the entire community, and should grow more and more popular and become as indispensable as is the system of common schools. Prominent and influential in this club are Edward L. Briggs, Ocenus Van Buren, W. N. Cook, Robert Briggs, William Rowe, E. Graham, and others, besides the officers mentioned. EDWARD L. BRIGGS, the oldest child of Barber and Mary Swan Briggs, was born in the town of Skaneateles, Orange county. New York, July 30, I830. The name Briggs is of Welsh origin, but the family have never traced their ancestry back to Wales. On the mother's side the Swans were of Irish extraction. Edward's family removed in the spring of 1834 to Michigan, settled near Ann Arbor, and after a few years purchased land covered with a heavy growth of timber, and began the work of making a farm and home. The subject of this sketch while but a child in years bore his part in the severe labor of clearing the land and carrying on the farm. His opportunities for obtaining an education were limited, being such as were afforded by three months each winter of the common school, in a district so new that many terms of its school were held in a log school house. The school teachers of those days, from the very nature of their position and surroundings, could give but little instruction to the individual pupil. The young boy was very studious, and read with avidity every book that he could obtain. His father sold the farm, and after about a year spent in the village of Ann Arbor, the family removed to Kent county, in March, I850, and settled in the town of Grand Rapids, a short distance north of the city. Here they again began making a home upon land upon which a furrow had never been turned. This farm has always remained in the hands of the family. After helping to clear and break up a part of the land and put it into crops, young Briggs left home to seek his fortune; worked about the lumber mills near Grand Haven awhile; then crossed the lake on a lumber vessel and made his way on the canal from Chicago to Lasalle, and thence by river to Saint Louis and New Orleans. He spent about two years in the south, engaged in steamboating, house building and various occupations upon the plantations, and, finding his health seriously impaired, returned home to Grand Rapids. In November, I853, he secured employment through the late Lucius A. Thayer, with the St. Mary's Falls Ship Canal Company. From this time until I858 he was in the employ of that company, and of private capitalists engaged in exploring for mineral and timber lands, and traversed nearly all portions of the Upper Peninsula, and the newer portions of the Lower Peninsula. In I857 he was married to Cordelia T. Fitch, the oldest daughter of the late Lemon Fitch, at that time a resident of the West Side in this city. In i858 he was engaged with a surveying party, and was eight months in the field, making surveys in Minnesota, and ran the first line of the United States survey that touched the Red River of the north. In I859 he received the appointment of Timber Agent from the Comrpissioner of the State Land Office, and retained this position until i868. Acting under the authority of the United States Marshal for Michigan, and the Register and Receiver of the United States Land Office at Marquette, he also looked after timber cutting on the lands of the United States. During these years the most of his time was spent in examining and surveying the public lands of the State and United States, detecting and arresting trespassers, and settling the damages for timber-cutting. He was elected County Surveyor of Kent county in 1862, and re-elected in 1864. In November, 1872, he was elected to represent the tl in Third District of Kent county in the State House of Representatives; served through the regular session of 1873, and the extra session of I874, and gained the reputation of an industrious and influential member. He was re-elected in the fall of I874, and served through the session of 1875 as chairman of the standing Committee on Public Lands and of the special Committee on Apportionment. Mr. Briggs although an ardent Republican, was very much opposed to the reelection to the United States Senate of the Hon. Zachariah Chandler, and bore a leading part in the revolt that led to his defeat. Seeing no other way of accomplishing this, he declined to take part in the Republican Senatorial Caucus, and in the Joint Convention voted for J. Webster Childs. Mr. 512 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Briggs has always been firm in the conviction that it is the right and the duty of the State to prohibit the traffic in alcoholic liquors as beverages, but he continued to act with the Republican party until after the election in November, 1884; when he decided to act with the Prohibition party, has since been active in the counsels of the latter, was its candidate for Representative in Congress for the Fifth District at the election in i886, and received 3,086 votes. Mr. Briggs was one of the incorporators of the Grand Rapids Chair Company, served on its Board of Directors for five years and was at one time President of the company. He was also one of the incorporators of the City National Bank and the Grand Rapids National Bank. He was one of the charter members of the Citizens Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Kent, Allegan and Ottawa Counties, and served as President and Treasurer of the company from 1874 to 1886. He is a member of Valley City Lodge No. 86, A. F. and A. M., and of Harmony Grange Patrons of Husbandry. He belongs to the Fountain Street Baptist Church but is liberal in his religious views. Nearly all his life he has been engaged in farming, and feels thoroughly identified with that class. Mr. Briggs has a passion for tree planting and culture, and has probably planted and cared for a greater number of trees than any other man in Kent County, for the purposes of shade, ornament, wind-breaks and plantations. For twenty-four years he has made his home on his farm, half a mile north of the city limits; but he and his wife have in recent years been spending the winters in California. At the present time he gives most of his attention to his real estate interests in and near the city and on the Pacific Coast. In the winter of I888-89 he made a journey through Mexico, spending a month in some of the principal cities, and wrote some letters on Mexico and California that were published in the Grand Rapids Daily Democrat and were received with favor by his friends. As a man and citizen, and in public trusts, Mr. Briggs has won and enjoys the high esteem of the community. Samuel L. Fuller was born at Geneseo, Livingston County, N. Y., January 24, i8i8. His parents were natives of New England. He came to Grand Rapids in September, 1836, and was engaged four years as a surveyor and assistant engineer under John Almy on Grand River and the Sault St. Mary's Ship Canal. In 1840 he returned to Livingston County and was in the employ of the Hon. Charles H. Carroll; was on a farm from 1845 to 1862, during which time he served two terms in the New York Legislature, and was sent by an association of Livingston County farmers to England to purchase short-horn cattle. From 1862 to I866 he was in the express business in New York City. In 1867 he returned to Grand Rapids for permanent residence, and engaged in private banking with his brother, Edward P. Fuller, and retired from that business in I875. Mr. Fuller was one of the incorporators of St. Mark's Episcopal Church, Grand Rapids. He married in 1844 Emily Stevens, who died in 1852, and again in 1854 Arthuretta S. Van Vechten, his present wife. He is a member of the various agricultural associations here, in which he takes an active interest; also of the Kent Scientific Institute, and of the Equal Suffrage Association. In politics he is a Republican. Sluman S. Bailey came into Paris, Kent County, in 1846, and lived on a farm there fourteen years, when he moved into Grand Rapids. He was born at Somerset, Niagara County, N. Y., December 14, 1821. Farming has been his favorite occupation, but he has been a busy man in public as well as private life, in various town offices, as Sheriff, and fifteen years as Collector of Internal Revenue. Erastus U. Knapp is a native of Oswego county, N. Y., born in 1820. He came to Grand Rapids about 1847, and bought and cleared the farm which he has since occupied on Section 17, by the northeast corner of the city. He has been a prominent and influential citizen, both in private and official life, and a successful farmer, fruit grower and gardener. Politically he is a Republican. He has served several terms as Justice of the Peace, and many years as Highway Commissioner. William E. Calkins has been a farmer and gardener just east of the city line for a out twenty-five years. He was born at Earlville, N. Y., October i, 1838. His - ther and mother, John and Sarah A. Cc Kins, ' FARMERS AND GARDENERS-HORSE ASSOCIATIONS. 513 residing here also, are 83 and 82 years of age respectively, and have passed their sixtieth marriage anniversary. Mr. Calkins is a member of the Baptist Church, and also of the Knights of Honor. He is a Republican, politically. Thomas E. Reed resides upon the place where he was born, May 4, I847. His father, Porter Reed, was one of the three brothers from whom Reeds Lake is named, having settled there in 1834 on Section 33, Grand Rapids township. In his seventeenth year, January 4, I864, Thomas enlisted in the Twenty-first Michigan Infantry, and served until December I6, 1865, when he was discharged, and has since been engaged in farming. He was wounded at Bentonville, and was held as a prisoner three days. Mr. Reed retains the old homestead, though most of the original large farm has been platted into building lots. He married, February 21, 1867, Mary L. Walker. They have three children. He is a member of Custer Post, G. A. R., and Mrs. Reed is a member of the Relief Corps. During the past three years he has been Town Treasurer and Highway Commissioner. George P. Hogadone lives in Walker township, where he was born December 6, I850. His father died December 25, I853. His farm is on Section 33. He is Town Treasurer and Drain Commissioner. Has been in the dairy business. He married in 1872 Isabella Graham, of Walker. In politics he is a Republican. Robert Briggs, born in Onondaga county, N. Y., in 1818, came to Grand Rapids township in 1853, and since then has been engaged in dairying, or the milk business. Has been elected to local offices, but never served. In 1876 his barn burned, and in 1885 he lost his house by fire, involving losses to the amount of $8,500. Politically he is an adherent of the Democratic party. He is classed as a methodical and successful farmer. Horace D. Carpenter, a native of Columbia county, N. Y., came to Grand Rapids in I869, and purchased the home now occupied by his widow, Mrs. Esther Carpenter, on Section 29, just east of the city. Her maiden name was Esther Hydorn. He held the office of Town Clerk one year, and was Justice of the Peace seven years. He 51 died August 7, I888. His occupation here was that of gardener, and dealer in loans and real estate. Sanford W. Lyon came to Michigan in 1862; enlisted and served in the Twentyfirst Infantry; was twice wounded, but served until the close of the war. He then returned to the town of Grand Rapids, where he has since been engaged as market gardener, and has built a fine home. In September, 1862, he married Harriet A. Tracy, daughter of Addison Tracy, an early resident. He is a member of Custer Post, G. A. R. James M. Livingston, born in Rochester, N. Y., April 12, 1829, is of Scotch descent. His father was among the early builders of saw mills in this valley. James M. came to Grand Rapids in I845. He has twice married: First, Maria Miller, who died in 1852; second, Jane Ferguson, his present wife. He lived on a farm in Grand Rapids township till 1862, was afterward a contractor until 1884, when he bought his present homestead and built his house, on Section 3I, in Plainfield. Orson C. Kellogg of Grand Rapids township was born in Onondaga county, N. Y., October 2, 1826; son of Truman Kellogg, mentioned elsewhere in this work. The family came in I837. After the death of his father, he took charge of the farm, and has since lived there, on Section 29, Grand Rapids. Fruit raising and gardening have been prominent features of his business. He married, October 30, I851, Lydia H. McKenzie, of this city. They have three children. He enlisted in 1863, and served nineteen months in the First Michigan Engineers and Mechanics. He is a Republican in politics, and still resides at the old homestead, which has been platted into city lots. HORSE ASSOCIATIONS. In I869 the Grand Rapids Horse Association was organized. Samuel A. Browne was President, and very active thereafter in its affairs, and in all that pertains to the rearing and training of fine horses, and to speed trials and contests. A few years later there was a reorganization, under the name of Valley City Driving Park Association. Of this E. B. Dikeman was for some time President. In that and similar organiza 514 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. tions J. Boyd Pantlind, Walter S. Gee and G. S. Ward have also occupied official positions. In March, i888, the Grand Rapids Horsemen's Association was incorporated, and soon after joined the American Trotting Association as a stockholding member. Its officers (I889) are: President, M. J. Smiley; Vice President, J. B. Griswold; Secretary, Fred A. Maynard; Treasurer, H. P. Baker. It held a trotting and pacing meeting in July, I888, with purses aggregating $5,000, on the Fair Grounds. POULTRY ASSOCIATION. April 5, 1882, the Michigan State Poultry Association was organized in this city. President, J. P. Clark; Secretary, R. C. Greiner; Treasurer, Henry R. Naysmith. The name was subsequently enlarged to State Poultry and Pet Stock Association. As may be inferred from its title, the objects of this society are improvement in the breeds of fowls, and stimulation of the general interest in poultry raising. It has made several special exhibits, and has participated more or less in displays at agricultural fairs. An exposition of fowls and pet stock made in Grand Rapids in January, 1887, was fine and an object of general admiration. An influential part of its official membership has remained in this city. CHAPTER XLV. NAVIGATION. RIVER CHANNEL-EARLY BOATING. There is a theory, which to many people seems plausible, that at some time in the remote past the mouth of Grand River was ten or twelve miles inland from its present locality, perhaps at or near Spoonville. It is also supposed by some that its waters may have passed into Lake Michigan further southward, near Black Lake. These impressions may be partly speculative, or in part deduced from a study of the geological structure of Michigan. In either case it is about as much an undetermined problem as is the knowledge of pre-historic man, or of the mound builders who once occupied this territory. It is undoubtedly true that a dam across the river twelve or fifteen feet high, not far below the rapids, would send its waters over into Black River; and there has been serious talk, among those interested in river navigation, of the construction of a ship canal from some point this side of Grandville direct to Black Lake. Such a work would be costly, but it would be permanent and, many think, worth all its cost. When the pioneer settlers came into this valley, the only easy way of communication was that by Grand River; chiefly by the use of Indian canoes, the bateaux of the French traders, and the little flat-bottomed skiffs which the people along the stream built for themselves. Giles B. Slocum in 1834 paddled a canoe down the river from Jackson to Grand Rapids. But within two years came the use of larger craft, scows and pole boats, and these were soon succeeded by little steamboats. At this time also began a demand for the improvement of the river navigation, and a call for public aid at certain points, notably here at the rapids, for that purpose. The State made an appropriation in 1838 for the improvement of certain navigable streams, $30,000 of which was to be applied for "improving the harbor at Grand Rapids," for clearing the channel at the foot of Canal street, and for removing the logs from the stream above, as far as Lyons. This was expended mainly under the direction of Rix Robinson, Commissioner; John Almy and James Lyman having charge of the survey. A considerable part of it was used in the removal of a large accumulation of boulders from the channel near the head of the islands, above where now is Pearl street bridge, the rocks having probably been dropped there from the ice during some former flood or floods. The channel from Grand Haven to the foot of the rapids, has always been navigable during the open season, except at times of very low water, for boats of not over thirty inches draft, and lighter boats have usually been able to make the passage above this place, formerly as far as Ionia or Lyons. Most of the improvement in the navigable channel, aside from the appropriation just mentioned, until within a few years, has been done by private enterprise; the only additional State aid being an appropriation in 1847 of 25,000 acres of land, " to construct a canal and locks around the rapids at Grand Rapids." In 1835, when the men came in to dig the first canal, or mill race, a portion of their supplies were brought from Jackson down the river in flat-bottomed scows, and a considerable number of the later settlers brought their families and goods in the same way. These occasional trips raised an inquiry as to the feasibility of securing permanent slackwater navigation in that part of the river, by the construction of locks at points where needed for the purpose. The Grand River Navigation Company was organized in 1842 with the avowed object of improving the river from Jackson to Lyons, but it never did much. The State Geologist expressed the opinion that the scheme of such improvement was wholly 516 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. practicable at a small expense. The distance he stated to be, by the meanders of the river, nearly 18 miles, and the descent 281 feet; a fraction over two feet four and a half inches to the mile. This project ended in talk, as did also another and later one for a permanent waterway across the State, with the aid of some canal work. John W. Squier, in March, I844, brought down a cargo of irons and a run of stone for his mill, from Jackson, in a scow. The weight of the cargo was four and a half tons. Five other boats came down the same season, with loads of goods and passengers. Commenting upon these facts, the only newspaper then here said: "No canal in the Union runs through a larger extent of fertile soil and varied resources immediately adjacent to its line than the one proposed to be constructed upon the Grand River." The interest in this project was kept up until it resulted in the organization of the Saginaw and Grand River Canal Company, whose stock subscription books were opened in this city, April 30, I850. Stock was not taken rapidly, and the work never went much beyond the subscription stage. THE CANAL AT THE RAPIDS. The most important early movement for improvement at this point was that first undertaken by Lucius Lyon and N. O. Sargeant as a private enterprise, for the construction of the east side canal and locks around the rapids, begun in I835. It was dug from the head of the rapids down nearly to Bridge street. Several years later the work was resumed, and completed to its southern terminus June 30, 1842. The contractor for this extension was D. F. Tower. The canal was at that time described as being nearly a mile long, eighty feet wide at the water line, and about five feet deep. At its foot a basin was constructed, 200 feet square, the south line of which was 70 feet north of Huron street, and the east line within eight feet of Canal street. At the upper end a breakwater, or wing-dam, was constructed, projecting up stream, and curving slightly toward the center of the river, to turn the current from the waters above into the canal. This wing was an embankment composed chiefly of loose stones, taken from the river bed. The work created a valuable mill property for nearly its whole length, along the river bank. Nevertheless it is evident from its character and the formation of the basin, from which lockage could be had to the channel below, that the proprietors were in earnest in their intent to make of it a permanent public improvement for purposes of navigation. To complete it for the latter use, however, required State aid, and they were not disposed and probably not able to undertake it at their own expense. In I847, as before mentioned, the Legislature made an appropriation of 25,000 acres of land to perfect the canal, to build a dam across the river at its head, and to construct locks at the foot of the basin, and thus provide for the passage of boats both ways, and complete the chain of navigation from Grand Haven to Lyons. The dam was built in the season of 1849, and at that time the Grand Rapids Enyuirer spoke of it as having originated much litigation, adding: "This work was projected mainly for the increase of the water-power at this point; so far it has only exercised our hitherto undeveloped wind-power." The dam was constructed of logs, brush, stone and gravel. It was about five feet high, with a slope of about thirty degrees. The contract for the canal was taken by James Davis, and the work was done under the supervision of Frederick Hall, Rix Robinson and Daniel Ball. His contract included the completion of the dam, the enlargement and improvement of the race and the basin, and the construction of the lockage below. The canal and basin work was completed in that year. Excavation for the lock-pit began in August, 1849, and considerable progress was made that fall, leading from the east channel of the river direct toward the basin, but the work was suspended for the season in November. That digging displaced the middle one of the three block and log buildings of Louis Campau's trading station. It was where now is Lock street; the upper end of the steamboating channel being by the foot of Lyon street at that point. The Engqiricr of August i, 1849, had the following editorial paragraph in reference to this work: Any one may now see the "Dutch Buggies" in full operation, at the foot of Canal street. The dirt taken from the lock excavation, near the bank of the river, is used to raise a lot belonging to Mr. Davis, upon Canal street, and the files of Dutchmen engaged in THE CANAL-APPROPRIATIONS-REPORT ON, SURVEY. 517 transporting "the raw material," are well worth watching. These men are mostly hired "for land," and a few months labor will make each of them the proprietor in fee of a forty acre lot, which in their notion is a domain, equaling in size some of the petty Dukedoms or Principalities into which their native country is cut up. They are not only an industrious but very steady set of laborers. No rows mark their hours or days of rest, to which peculiarity their general temperance undoubtedly contributes. We notice further that buildings are going up upon that part of the Basin which has been left dry by the central embankment, the builders thus securing ready made cellars. In February, 1850, the Legislature granted an extension of time to complete the lock, and in the spring following a little work was done; but the contractor exhausted his funds, and left it unfinished. In I851, the Legislature provided for the appointment of a commissioner to superintend the completion of the work, the cost to the State not to go beyond the original appropriation. John Almy was appointed Commissioner, but the job never was completed, and the lock never was built. About two-thirds of the appropriation had been used; the remainder (some 7,000 acres of land) was subsequently expended for the clearing of a channel in midstream, from the dam to the foot of the rapids, for rafting purposes. Wilder D. Foster and John M. Fox were the contractors for this last work. RIVER AND HARBOR APPROPRIATIONS. According to a statement in the Governor's message-session of 1845 —$34,658 had been expended the previous year under the State law for the improvement of Grand and Maple Rivers. Quite liberal appropriations have been made by Congress in later years for the improvement of Grand River below the rapids and the harbor at Grand Haven. Beginning in 1852 with $20,000, the appropriations for Grand Haven Harbor up to I888 foot up $578,75I. The work there has been chiefly the building of piers, dredging, pile revetment and repairs. For the improvement of the channel between Grand Rapids and Grand Haven, appropriations amounting to a total of $5o,ooo have been made. This work has been largely surveying and dredging. It began in I88I, since which a local office has been maintained in this city. The officers in charge have been successively: D. P. Heap, F. W. Harwood, D. W. Lockwood, and S. M. Mansfield, of the United States Army; the latter being now in service, with Lieutenant Joseph Kuhn as assistant. REPORT ON SURVEY. Captain Lockwood, in his report of the preliminary examination of Grand River, with a view to its improvement for navigation, under date of January 29, 1887, says: This survey extended from the foot of Ganoe's Canal to a point i miles down stream, and was necessarily continuous on account of the number of the shoals and their nearness to each other. The survey showed that for this portion of the river the lengths of the cuts to secure depths of 4.5 feet, 5.5 and 6.5 feet, would be 6. 8 miles, 9.54 miles and 0. 57 miles respectively, with several shoal places below the limit of the survey to be taken account of in securing the depth stated above. But little benefit was found to have resulted from the work done in previous years. A contract was entered into March 20, 1885 with Robert Finch, of Grand Haven, to dredge a cut 60 feet wide and 4.5 feet deep, commencing near the upper limit of the survey and extending down stream as far as funds would permit. Work was commenced May I3, I885, and closed in July, I886. This gave for the time a continuous channel 60 feet wide and 4.5 feet deep from the foot of Ganoe's Canal to the foot of Haire's Bar, a distance of IIY miles. The greater part of the material removed was sand, and I can see no reason for anticipating anything like permanency for the channel, as the main causes that were in operation to maintain the river at its normal depth before work commenced are active now to restore its bed to its former condition. One small steamer with a maximum draft of 30 inches makes three round trips per week between Grand Rapids and Grand Haven during the season of navigation. I have stated the above facts to show that no further examination of the river is necessary with a view to its improvement by dredging, and in considering any other plan for improving the river itself it is necessary to take account of other facts. The stage of water sometimes reaches i6 feet, and at very low water in the summer the discharge is so small that there is a notable difference between the morning and evening gauge-readings, due to the quantity of water taken from the river by the various factories, mills, etc., along its banks. In my opinion deep water connection with Lake Michigan can only be secured by canal, outside of the river banks, using the river as a feeder. To determine the feasibility of such a plan and arrive at anything like a correct estimate of its cost will require an extensive detailed survey, covering not only both banks of the stream, but in all probability other lines with a view to selecting the most suitable. I do not consider the river itself worthy of improvement. Nevertheless the business men of Grand Rapids and the Board of Trade are vigorously agitating the subject, and have procured additional surveys as the basis of further action. 518 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. THE COMING OF STEAMBOATS. The regular running of steamboats on Grand River began in I837. For several years a single boat making three trips a week was found sufficient for the transportation business. The first one was of home production, and a considerable number have been built here; also the hulls of some larger vessels for the lake trade. Several points along the rapids, and down to a short distance below the present steamboat landing, have at some time been occupied as shipyards. About 1842, the boating interest received an impetus from the increased carrying of merchandise by the lakes, from Buffalo to Chicago, thence by Grand Haven to Grand Rapids, and in August of that year there was great rejoicing over the arrival of goods from New York city in fifteen days from the date of shipment, something at that time unprecedented. Not long after, two boats were required for the increasing business, giving a daily passage each way, and later three and even four found abundant employment. Above the rapids also, for some years prior to the coming in of railroads, two or three small steamers did a lively business. The advent of the locomotive introduced competition in the transportation of passengers, and of goods seeking quick transit, which proved too strong for the steamboating men, and after I858 the river navigation quickly dropped away to only one or two boats, confined chiefly to local traffic, and these running regularly below Grand Rapids only. LIST OF RIVER STEAMERS. Brief mentions are here appended of most of the vessels which have plied upon Grand River from the beginning to the present time, in chronological order: I835-36. A pole-boat was built byLyman Gray for Louis Campau. It was named Young Napoleon. How long it was in service the chroniclers say not. Among the early proprietors of pole-boats were Thomas D. and Francis B. Gilbert, then of Grand Haven, but who some twenty years later made Grand Rapids their home. Richard Godfroy had a pole-boat which was run by Willard Sibley below the rapids until the coming of steamboating. The Campaus also had pole-boats and bateaux. I837. The Cinderella, a pole-boat, was launched in June at Grandville. The Governor Mason, first steamer, built here by James Short for Richard Godfroy and others, made her trial trip to Grandville, July 4. This boat was fitted out with the engine of the Don Quixote, that was wrecked while bringing round the lakes the press for the first newspaper here. Governor Stevens T. Mason named the new steamboat and presented it with a stand of colors. Captain William Stoddard was its first commander, then Captain William Kanouse for a year or two, and afterward Willard Sibley. It made a trip up the river that season of 1837, to Lyons, with Alanson Cramton as bugler. The Mason was not a success pecuniarily, but ran to Grand Haven irregularly for some years. At the time of the great freshet in February, I838, this steamer was forced by the floating ice inland toward where the Union Depot now is, and left aground by the receding water; but was returned to the river at the expense of much labor and cash, the work being done by Howard Jennings and Captain James Short, with several able-bodied assistants. The Mason was driven ashore and wrecked, in May, 1840, near the entrance to Muskegon Harbor. In 1837 was put afloat also the river steamer Owashtanong (or as a Grand Haven authority calls it, the Owastanonk); built by Robinson, White, Williams & Co., at Grand Haven. It was commanded by Capt. Thomas W. White; was a flat-bottomed freight boat, not a very stanch craft, and was sometimes called the "Poorhouse." It ran but a year or two, and not steadily, was finally dismantled and stripped, and went to decay at Grand Haven. 1838. Steamer Patronage, built at Grand Rapids. This boat was in service several years. Its engine was made at Grandville. A small steamer called the John Almy was built to run up the river, by Orson Peck. It made one or two trips and was stranded near the mouth of Flat River. 1842. Steamer Paragon, built by Howard Jennings. Willard Sibley, Master. Steamer Enterprise, built here, was launched in the spring. I843-44. The Paragon ran to Grand Haven regularly during these two seasons. May 21, I844, two flat-boats came down the river from Jackson to Grand Rapids laden with immigrants and merchandise. LIST OF RIVER STEAMERS. 519 I845. The Mishawaka, G. S. Matthews, Master, and the Paragon, Willard Sibley, Master, were on the Grand Haven route. The Empire, built by Jasper Parish for Harvey P. Yale and Warren P. Mills, was launched May 31, near the foot of Canal street. Henry R. Williams was agent for a line of lake propellers, touching at Grand Haven once a month and contributing to the trade of the river boats. In August, five yoke of oxen drew through the streets a boiler for Daniel Ball's steamboat, the Great Western. This was a boat in the up-river trade, but not much appears of record concerning it. The Spy, a flat-boat, loaded with merchandise and household goods and several passengers, including two ladies, came safely down the river from Jackson in April, and was moored in the Canal basin. 1846. Paragon, Captain George C. Darrow. Empire, Captain John W. Robbins; owned by Aaron Dikeman-afterward purchased by Daniel Ball. A propeller was launched by Daniel Ball, from a yard on the bank of the canal, March i6, intended for a lake boat. This was the Odd Fellow. She made several trips on the river and to Milwaukee, and finally went to Lake St. Clair. I847. Paragon and Empire. In August the little steamer Humming Bird, built by Henry Steele at Lamont came upon the river, and was run by Captain Sibley. She was built, as it was commonly expressed, "on two canoes with a single paddle wheel in the middle." Her engine was one that had been used at the State Salt Works, below the rapids. 1848. Empire and Algoma. The Algoma was brought upon the river by Henry R. Williams, and ran for some years under command of Alfred X. Cary and Harvey K. Rose. It was a slow boat, much used for towing, as well as for passenger traffic. I849. Empire and Algoma, down the river; Humming Bird, to Ionia, and Lyons, the latter having been purchased by Robert S. Parks. The Champion, that season made tri-weekly trips between Grand Haven and Milwaukee, connecting with the river boats. Steamers during the entire season were able to come up full laden to the docks in Grand Rapids, which means to the foot of Pearl and Canal streets. River navigation closed the first week in December, and the little Humming Bird moored, the newspapers said, "in the eddy of a saw log," above the rapids. i850. Algoma, Captain A. Hosford Smith. Empire, Captain DeWitt Shoemaker. The Humming Bird was on the up-river route. i85I. Same boats as in the previous year. 1852. Algoma and Empire below; Humming Bird and Porter above. The Porter was hauled over the canal bank, near the dam from below, early in April. The Empire was commanded in the latter part of the season by Robert M. Collins. The Porter was built at Mishawaka in i850 by Henry R. Williams, and was brought upon the river by Daniel Ball, Elisha M. Adams, John Clancy, and C. B. Allyn; Byron D. Ball, Master. I853. Empire, Michigan, Humming Bird and Algoma below; Porter above. Captain Robert S. Parks commanded the Michigan. 1854. Below-Michigan, Robert H. Smith, Master; Empire, Algoma, and Humming Bird. Above-the Porter and Kansas. Robert S. Parks in that season built at a yard near the foot of Lyon street, five boats for the Illinois Canal. September 2 the Humming Bird was wrecked by an explosion. I855. Down the river- Empire, Algoma, Michigan, Olive Branch. The latter was a stern-wheel, upper cabin boat, flat bottomed, of light draft, and rather unwieldy. She was commanded by Robert M. Collins. Up the river-Porter, Pontiac, Nawbeck and Kansas. The water was low, making navigation somewhat difficult, and for a good portion of the season steamers from below landed at the lower island. According to an enumeration then made there were also eight barges and tows upon the river here. i856. Line to Grand Haven —Michigan, Augustus Paddock, Master; Empire, Harvey K. Rose, Master; Kansas, Michael Shields, Master; Pontiac, Jesse Ganoe, Master; Olive Branch, De Witt Shoemaker, Master. To Ionia and Lyons —the Porter, Captain D. L. Coon; the Nawbeck, Captain Charles P. Parks; the Forest Queen, Captain Remington. The Forest Queen 520 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. was built at Grand Rapids by Jacob Meddler, for William T. Powers and others, and launched on the first of April. I857. Up the river-the Nawbeck and the Porter. The Empire, Olive Branch, and one or two others were running below. The Empire was hauled out this year, lay some two years awaiting repairs, and was then stripped and dismantled and the hull left to rot. The Nebraska was launched in March by Daniel Ball at the foot of Lyon street, and afterward put upon the up-river route. In March, a lake vessel, the sloop H. R. Williams, came up to the 'dock in this city. I858. The Michigan, Olive Branch, Forest Queen, Pontiac, Nawbeck and Nebraska were on the river. The Porter was running above to Lowell, until the cars reached Grand Rapids in July. This boat made trips in every month for upward of a year from March, I857. In August the Forest Queen was taken to Fox River in Wisconsin, and the Porter was lying above the dam by the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad bridge. The Nawbeck was stripped in July, and made into a scow. I859. The Olive Branch, Michigan and Pontiac were running to Grand Haven. The Forest Queen in that year was taken down the Fox River into the Mississippi. I860. The Michigan and Pontiac were running. The steamer Croton, which came from Muskegon, ran on the river for a time. The Michigan burned at Hovey's dock, July 11. In the period from i860 to I865, were built, the Daniel Ball in i86I, and the L. G. Mason in I864, each of which had a run of several years. The steamer Algoma was wrecked by a boiler explosion in June, 1864. 1865-70. The Daniel Ball and L. G. Mason were making regular trips in I865. The Petroleum was built in 1865, for a freight boat. The L. and L. Jenison was built by Jesse Ganoe and.Byron D. Ball in 1867, and ran upon the river eight years. From 1870 to the present day there have been upon the river sometimes one and sometimes two steamers, plying regularly for passengers and mixed traffic; a portion of the time other steam freight boats, and a considerable number of tugs and scows or tow boats. In May, 1873, the Daniel Ball left for Bay City. In the following winter the Wm. H. Barrett was built by Ganoe & Son, and has been a regular boat on the river ever since. Another boat which ran for a time was the Schuyler Colfax. December I7, I875, the Jenison was burned to the water's edge, at the lower landing in this city. Among the river craft since I874 have also been the following: Freight-the Samson, Dr. Hanley, and May. Tows-Fanny Shriver, Wm. Batcheller, J. W. Johnston, George Stickney, V. Gray, Stewart Edward, Claude, Duncan Robertson, Arctic, Tempest, St. Mary, Miranda, Jerome, Lizzie Frank, J. T. Campbell, H. Warner, and Waukazoo. Pleasure yachts (steam) - Capt. Tyler, Comet, and Eva Parks. There have been at various times since I874, on the river near the mouth, and running through Spring Lake to Fruitport, the following passenger boats: Dwight Cutler, Jr., Gracie Barker, Maud Lilley, Myrtle L. McCluer, George P. Savidge, Lizzie Walsh, Sport, Nellie, and Florence. In the early part of the "seventies," among the river craft in trade were also the Emma, A. H. Petrie, Minnie, Twilight, North Star, and Valley Queen; small side-wheel steamers. Captain Jesse Ganoe, beginning in I855, ran boats on the river for thirty-two years; built five of them and owned six. Demetrius Turner is a native of Essex, Connecticut, born February 25, i815. In I820 the family removed to Rochester, N. Y. From boyhood he had an aptitude for machine work and early acquired skill in the art. In 1835 he came to Grand Rapids, and was next an engineer in the first steam mill at Grand Haven. Afterward he was employed as engineer on the river boats some ten years. Since 1864 he has been engaged largely in the construction of steam engines, and built those at the Grand Rapids Water Works, parts of which were of his own invention. He is another of those pioneers whose experience runs parallel with the whole history of white men in this valley. In recent years, and especially since the building of the Soldiers' Home, the river above the rapids has been much used for' pleasure boating,'and the number of little steamers and row-boats is constantly increasing. The region along the banks, espec I PORT OF DELIVERY-CONSULSHIP —JOHN STEKETEE. 521 ially that on the east bank, has several spots that are becoming popular summer resorts for picnics and society gatherings. PORT OF DELIVERY. The act of Congress creating the Customs District of Detroit authorized the Secretary of the Treasury to establish within such collection district two ports of delivery, one of which was designated by the Secretary at Grand Rapids. March IO, 1856, William H. Godfroy was appointed and stationed as customs officer here, his title being "Aid of the Revenue," with a compensation of $40 per month. As in those days there was not much work for such an officer at this port, aside from keeping watch against smuggling, the position was substantially a sinecure. Mr. Godfroy served until July 31, I860, when the port was abolished. By act of Congress, June 4, i888, Grand Rapids was again made a port of delivery, and August 21, i888, Andrew F. Schafer was commissioned Surveyor of the Port. Including previous business in that for October, the value of imports and collections of tariff at this interior "Custom House" during its first quarter, or up to January I, 1889, were as follows: Consul April 30, 1884, and has since retained the position. JOHN STEKETEE is a native of Holland, Europe, born January 13, 1833; son of John and Maria Steketee. The family came to America in 1847, and settled in Zeeland, Ottawa county, Michigan. He is one of a family of nine children, all of whom are living and citizens of Western Michigan. At seventeen years of age, in 1850, he left the paternal roof and entered the store of James P. Scott, at Grandville, where he remained as clerk until I854, when he came to Grand Rapids and settled upon a farm near Reeds Lake. In 1872 he sold his farm and moved into the city of Grand Rapids, to take advantage of the better opportunities for educating his children. Here he built a homestead on Goodrich street, the first one there, where he has since resided. What was then vacant and pasture land around him is now thickly covered with houses, and neighbors and friends are all about. Here Mr. Steketee has grown with his surroundings, and accumulated a handsome competency; and is respected as a thoroughly patriotic American citizen, loving the country of his adoption, popular among its people, and also with those of his native country. The public confidence in his integrity and good judgment has been manifested by his election as Supervisor of his ward in I877, and his re-election to the same office until he had served eleven years continuously; by handsome majorities, notwithstanding the fact that he was and is a stanch Republican, while the ward was Democratic. July I2, 1889, he was appointed Collector of Internal Revenue at Grand Rapids for the Fourth Collection District of Michigan. April 30, 1884, he received the appointment of Vice Consul at Grand Rapids for the Netherlands, in which position he is still retained -a fact which illustrates his high standing in the estimation of the people and authorities of the land of his nativity. Mr. Steketee married, at Grand Rapids, December 19, 1853, Catherine Van Der Boegh-both then aged twenty years. They have a family of eight children, all living in Grand Rapids, and six of whom are married. He is a hearty, robust, genial, energetic, well respected citizen, in the full vigor of ripe manhood. I MPORTS. October.....................$ 5, 77 November................. 8,300 December.................. 3,906 Totals...................$I7,383 DUTIES. $I,522.89 2,2o20.78 I, I3377 $5,477.44 For the year 1889, the following amounts were reported: IMPORTS. January.....................$ 1,389 February.................... 1,987 M arch....................... 6,3I9 April....................... 5,665 M ay....................... 3,940 June...................... 8,ooi July......................... 5,313 August..................... 2,339 September................... 4,87I October................... 2 315 November.................. 4,556 December................. 3,269 Totals..............$49,964 DUTIES. $ 402.25 481.73 1,988.48 1,974.43 1,525.60 2,365.40 1,510.60 1,005.25 1,870.87 734.06 I,792.06 899.41 $I6,550.I4 April 2, 1890, Rezin A. Maynard was appointed Surveyor of Customs at this port, and is the present incumbent. CONSULSHIP. The Kingdom of Netherlands has a consular office in this city, in charge of John Steketee, who was appointed resident Vice 52 522 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. REEDS LAKE. Aside from the river, Reeds Lake is the only navigable water near Grand Rapids that has been much used; and that has been a resort for pleasure and recreation rather than business. Nearly surrounded by bluffs rising to a height of from twenty to fifty feet, it presents a scene of much natural beauty, and, with the attractive groves about, has become the favorite suburban retreat for picnic, sailing, rowing and fishing parties, and for society gatherings of various sorts. This lake is situated mostly on section thirty-four in the township of Grand Rapids, two miles east of the point where Wealthy avenue meets the city line. It is about one and a quarter miles long by one-third of a mile wide in the average, and from outlet to head the direction is eastsoutheast. It discharges a small stream into Fisk Lake, a much smaller sheet of water, whose chief use is that of supplying the city with a goodly portion of the ice used here in summer. From Fisk Lake the outlet is Coldbrook, which enters the river above the rapids. As early as 1858, there was a pretty sail boat called the Fairy of the Lake, and a number of little skiffs and fishing boats, plying the waters of Reeds lake, and were very well patronized. About I868, John Paul and H. B. Miller fitted up landings, and put on some twenty-five skiffs each, small row boats, for the use of the pleasure-going public, and have continued the supply to the present day, Miller having increased his number to about sixty. Andries Bevier, in I887-88, put in some fifty, and other parties have two or three dozen more which are kept for hire. The Owashtanong Club, which has a handsome club-house at the west end of the lake, has row boats and shells for the use of its members and guests. The Pioneer Club, in which W. S. Gunn was one of the movers, fitted up a pretty resort on the north side of the lake, about twenty years ago, having a considerable number of skiffs in their outfit. After a few seasons they abandoned the enterprise. But those little boats propelled by oars have not had a monopoly in navigating the lake. About eighteen years ago Giles B. Conkey launched a pretty little steamer that was built by George R. Pierce and which a year or two later was burned at Paul's landing. After that came the L. H. Randall and the Eagle. Then there were the Victor and the Sport, brought on by Captain Poisson, and these had a long service. The former, an iron steamer, was taken off in the spring of I888, the latter is still there (December, I888). Tyroler & Truscott, in 1887, built at Paul's landing the Belknap, and the Trixie, brought from Battle Creek, is run by Tyroler. The Reed was brought up from Grand Haven three or four years ago. These steamers are run by small engines; they are not gaudy, nor luxurious in appointments, but they have done lively business whenever there were crowds at the lake. "Crooks' barge," was a clumsy craft in much request for dancing, a dozen years ago. The landings at Reeds Lake are now reached by street railway extensions and by the Detroit, Lansing and Northern Railroad. CHAPTER XLVI. EARLY HIGHWAYS, STAGES AND PLANK ROADS. EARLY WAGON ROADS. Few persons at this date, and none under sixty years of age, have a knowledge, or can form more than a very imperfect idea of, the difficulties attending travel and transportation, by land, experienced by the pioneers of this section. When Grand Rapids was settled there were a few wagon roads open and partially worked from Detroit into the country, in several directions; one or two near the southern border of the Territory running toward Chicago, and one on the eastern side as far north as Saginaw. But there was not even a foot path, other than the Indian trails, north of what is now the line of the Michigan Central Railroad and west of Shiawassee county. The first teams, in I832, came through from Ypsilanti, by way of Battle Creek, thence to Middleville and to Grandville, with no other guide than the Indian trail, clearing the way for their ox-wagons where necessary, and blazing the route. The next incomers, the Dexter Colony of sixty-three persons, with teams, cut their way where no white man had driven a team before, from Pontiac to Ionia, from which place a few of them came down to the Rapids 'in small boats. Even the newly cut road of our day is a comfortable highway compared with the winding way of these primitive routes, through woodland and opening, and across or around swamps, vales and streams. They were only passable at a slow pace, involving patience and great labor of men and teams. In 1832 an appropriation of $3,500 was made by Congress for a wagon road from Detroit through Shiawassee to the mouth of Grand River. It could not have been done with any high degree of excellence for that sum, but before it was done, the pioneer settlers had cut their own way over a good portion of that route. In I84I, $9,729 and 500,000 acres of what were called internal improvement lands were appropriated to the State by Congress, mainly used in the construction of State roads, some of these to and from Grand Rapids. Some of the earlier routes into Grand Rapids, south and southeast, were shortened by the laying of new roads within a few years after settlement. A road was projected from Kalamazoo, striking the river near Grandville, and another from Black Lake to the same point; and later, State roads were authorized in the direction of Portland and Battle Creek, up the valleys of the Grand and Thornapple rivers, and another was opened to the south by way of Green Lake. A road down the river to Grand Haven and one to Muskegon were laid out and partially worked by the use of State aid. Over these early roads for many years there were no regular stages, with set times of arrival and departure. Passengers were carried and goods transported, usually in heavy, old-fashioned lumber wagons, drawn by horses or oxen, or with the two-wheeled cart as a vehicle. There were teamsters carrying for hire on nearly all these routes, upon such terms as they could make with their individual customers, only promisipg to go through as expeditiously as the weather and the state of the roads would permit. Many a pioneer, who at the start thought the charges exorbitantly high, changed his mind before reaching the end of his journey. Roads from the village into the country crept out slowly, as farms were settled and improved, but, for ten years after settlement, those which were fairly passable with loaded teams were few, and extended not very far. A winter incident, of December, 1842, will serve as an illustration of some of the difficulties the early settlers had to surmount. That was what has ever since been known as the hard winter. A party of men from this village were engaged in building a mill at Newaygo. Deep snow came in 524 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. November, and early in December, when they stopped work for the winter, the way of their return was blocked with deep drifts over the thirty-eight miles of hills and gullies between this place and that. To get home, they loaded an ox-sled with forage and provisions, went down the valley of the Muskegon river to its mouth, thence across to Ferrysburg, and thence up Grand River to the rapids, the journey taking nearly three weeks of time. Roasted potatoes, salt pork and johnny-cake were the staple articles of subsistence for Isaac Turner and his men during that trip. Teaming in those days and on those inchoate roads, was wearisome and toilsome, and yet a large proportion of the people, when they hitched up oxen or horses to go ten or fifteen miles to a dance, scarcely realized that they were not the best roads in the world. Early in 1845 the Legislature established a State road to Muskegon, and also one from Hastings by way of Middleville to Grand Rapids. Of this latter road John Ball was appointed special commissioner, empowered to let contracts and disburse the moneys, the taxes on non-resident lands within two miles of the road having been appropriated for its construction. THE.DAYS OF STAGES. Not many years after the settlement, the stage-running business from Grand Rapids outward began to take form. Early in I841 mails were carried, presumably by stage wagons, when the weather permitted, once a week to Kalamazoo, Howell, Jackson, Grand Haven and into the north part of this county. Some of these carried passengers also. In the fall of 1842, a line of stages was established from Grand Rapids to Pontiac, running three times a week, connecting there with the Detroit and Pontiac Railroad. In the summer of 1843, there was stage connection with Battle Creek twice a week, and with Ionia and Lyons once a week. About I849 began the running of daily lines of stages on the southern routes. Canton Smith and Julius Granger ran the line to Battle Creek, and after Granger in the same season William H. Withey, on the Gull Prairie route. In I850 there were three lines of daily stagesto Lansing, Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. On the latter route that year were established two lines, one by the way of Green Lake, driven by Asa Pratt, the other a mail line by way of Yankee Springs, Middleville and Cascade. Shortly after the Michigan Central Railroad reached Kalamazoo, the Kalamazoo route, being the shorter from a railroad point, became the favorite one for passengers from the east, and most of the staging after that time from the railroad was over that route. The completion of the Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo plankroad, in 1855, gave a wonderful impetus to stage traffic, and the passage of from six to eight coaches a day over that road was not an unusual occurrence. The opening of that plank road marks the era of the change, in this part of Michigan, from the old 'mud-wagon" stages to the Concord stage coach. The earlier stages were simply the square-box farm wagons, provided with wooden springs inside for the seats to rest upon, and sometimes with steel half-springs under the body, and canvas covering-the canvas being stretched over bent frames and given a thick coat of white or yellowish paint, the better to protect the passengers from storm. The Concord coach had a more elaborately built body, hung upon leather supports called thorough-braces, which gave it a rolling rather than a springy motion. It was furnished with comfortable seating for six to eight passengers, but was sometimes crowded to the extent of carrying twice as many or more, inside and on the top. At the rear of the body was attached a "boot," for the carrying of trunks and baggage, while the driver's seat was at the top in front. A light iron rail around the top provided also for the storage of baggage on the roof in cases of emergency. These, in the day of their popularity, were considered the ne plus ultra for pleasurable travel by stage. About this time, I855, a line of stages northward to Croton and back once a week was established, and soon a longer line to Traverse City, the latter driven by Josiah M. Cook. In i856, eleven regular stage lines running from this city were in operation, using an invested capital of $59,000, employing sixty-two men, and I90 horses. They used forty-five stages and carried an average of about i5o passengers daily. Besides these regular stages were several competing or opposition lines, carrying an average of two or three passengers each, THE DAYS OF STAGES —PLANK ROADS. 525 daily, and employing some thirty horses and a dozen men, with about $io,ooo aggregate capital. The liveliest and most profitable of the routes was that to Kalamazoo, and next to that the Ionia route. In 1855, Harvey P. Yale succeeded William H. Withey in the magagement of the Kalamazoo stage, and Hawley Lyon and George C. Morton also had an interest in it for a time. Staging did not die out at once when the railroads came, in i858. It dropped suddenly, and very materially southward of Grand River, but on the northward continued an increasing and in many cases lucrative business, until the iron horse began to push his conquests in that direction. STAGE INCIDENTS. Stage travel in the old way was not wholly without its perils and disasters. Sometimes there was a limb or a rib broken, oftener some ludicrous mishap by the overturning of the vehicle, but very seldom a life lost. Drivers became skilled and expert in their profession, and usually brought their passengers safe to land. An incident related by Edward Campau will serve to illustrate the more common class of accidents: Edward came to Grand Rapids from Detroit in 1839, then a boy fourteen years of age. Two or three years later he began to drive stage, on the Gull Prairie route to Battle Creek. One dark, stormy night, they broke an axletree about six miles above Ada, and the passengers, five or six in number, had to walk through the mud and snow to that place, it being the nearest settlement. In the winding about among hills and through swamps in those days, it was no uncommon thing to get stuck in the mud, or overturn the stage. At one time John Ball, Mrs. Thomas B. Church, and others, were passengers; including Fred. Church, the well known New York artist, then an infant. They overset in a mud-hole, and all were landed (?) in the mire, and Fred. was nearly suffocated before they rescued him. At another time, William A. Richmond and Harvey P. Yale were passengers. Yale fell asleep, when by the sinking of a wheel into a rut, the stage gave a lurch and landed him upon his head and shoulders in the mud. Gathering himself up, and seeing that the matter was no worse, he laughed with the rest of them, and resumed his seat. Now and then a mishap of stage riding was more serious, but it was upon incidents like this, that the old-time stage driver loved to dwell in relating his adventures. KALAMAZOO PLANK ROAD. This town was not more than ten years old, when the people began to look forward in hopeful anticipation of some better means of communication with the outer world than was afforded by the old-fashioned dirt road, which, however, will never go out of fashion, where it is equal to the service required of it. At first the clamor was for railroads, as about that time the Michigan Central began to stretch its arm across the State. The railroad fever after a time subsided temporarily, to be succeeded by a desire for plank roads, mainly because of their greater cheapness, and being nearer within the means of the people along their line to build. The first public meeting here for considering the project of plank road connection with the Central Railroad, was held at the Rathbun House, December 23, 1848. From that time forward, the subject was much agitated for a year or two, and schemes were broached for roads from Battle Creek by way of Hastings, and from Kalamazoo by two or three routes, all but one of which fell through, with very little done and but little money expended. The successful one was the Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids plank road. A charter was obtained for the Galesburg and Grand Rapids plank road, and a preliminary survey of the route was made in I849, by William Slawson —length 52, miles-but the work never progressed much further than that. The Battle Creek and Grand Rapids Plank Road Company, formed about this time, made some strenuous exertions, but that project was finally abandoned. Stock subscriptions were started in the summer of 1849 by the Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids Plank Road Company, and in October of that year a committee was appointed to contract for the plank, cause a survey of the route, and secure the right of way. Charles H. Taylor and George Kendall of Grand Rapids, and Timothy I. Tanner of Paris, represented the Grand Rapids portion of that committee. A preliminary survey was made immediately, and the company was incorporated by an act of the Legislature passed in March, I850. Subscriptions to 526 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. the capital stock proceeded slowly, and pending the preparations for its construction there was considerable rivalry along two lines proposed for the north half of the projected road —the one by way of Green Lake, the other the route finally chosen, further west and coning from the town of Wayland, in Allegan county, in the most direct line to this city. In October, 185I, stock had been subscribed to the amount of $37,000. The Directors at that time were Epaphroditus Ransom and Israel Kellogg of Kalamazoo, and Charles Shepard and William H- Withey of Grand Rapids. These gentlemen from this time forward pushed the road with great energy and and persistence. The principal contractor for the planking was Titus Doan, and an energetic and able assistant in the prosecution of the work was Benjamin Livingston. The road was com pleted and tolls taken thereon throughout its length in the summer of I855, and from that time until the incoming of railroads, for about the term of thirteen years, it was, especially on the south, a principal and very serviceable avenue of communication, for business, for passengers and for freighting, between this city and the outside world. Its length was about forty-eight miles; running due south on and from Division street, and varying but about a mile from that range line where it entered Kalamazoo. Two or three local projects for shorter roads were started while the Kalamazoo road was under construction, but never consummated; among those proposed were a Walker and Vergennes plank road, and a plank road from Grand Rapids to Newaygo. But of late the seekers for improvement in roads for wagoning have sought other devices. CHAPTER XLVII. RAILWAYS. w;i< z w << To SAY that our country leads the Nations of the world in facilities for communication both by land and water, is no boast, but a simple statement of fact. The first railroad, with wooden rails, was made for use in the colleries of Scotland, as early as 1672. The cars were four-wheeled carts, drawn by horses. Iron rails were first used in England, in I738. The first iron rail was made of a "strap" or bar of iron, about two and a half inches wide and five-eighths of an inch thick, spiked to the wooden rail. The first railway in America was the Quincy Railroad, from Quincy, Mass., to tide-water, formally opened at Boston, October 7, I826. It was operated by horses. The Mauch Chunk Railway in Pennsylvania was the second, completed in June, 1827. The first passenger railway was opened in England in 1825, and about this time came the practical use of steam as a motive power. The first successful passenger railroad in America was the Mohawk and Hudson, between Albany and Schenectady, chartered in 1829. Upon its completion, in September, 1831, an excursion over the road was given by the company; to which State and city officers and eminent citizens were invited. The accompanying cut is said to be a faithful representation of the train used on that occasion. The cars were simply stage-coach bodies, placed upon trucks, affording seats for from twelve to eighteen passengers each. The picture shows a less number. A speed of about thirty miles an hour was reported —much faster than the average attained for several years later. But it is not the province of this work to trace the steps of railroad progress between that time and the present. Agitation of projects for securing a railroad into Grand Rapids began in 1845, when the growing hamlet was only twelve years old. In that year, June 25, the citizens held a meeting and resolved to petition the Legislature for a charter for a railroad from Battle Creek to Grand Rapids. December I, following, at another meeting, it was resolved that application be made for a charter for a railroad from Port Huron, or some point on the St. Clair River to Grand Haven. In 1846, the Legislature granted charters for railroads, severally, from Jackson, Battle Creek, and Kalamazoo, to Grand Rapids. From that time forward, for several years, railroad meetings were frequent, with but little immediate practical result, further than to keep up an interest in the public mind on the subject. About I847, not long after the Central Railroad had reached Kalamazoo on its western way, a meeting was held in Irving Hall, at which an address was delivered by Dr. Joseph Penney, on the growth, prospects and coming importance of the village F I 528 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. of Grand Rapids, the population of which was only about 2,000 at that time. He urged immediate organization, and efforts to secure the attention of capitalists at home and abroad upon the subject. Home capital was then not very abundant, and gave but poor promise of ability to shoulder a railroad. Recounting some of the principal resources of the village and valley, he likened this place to Rochester, in those days a popular comparison, and astonished his hearers with the prediction: "I do not expect to live to see it (as many of you will), but before the year 1900 I believe the census of the city of Grand Rapids will show a population of 30,000 souls!" This seemed extravagant to many; yet it was in accordance with the general expectation. The citizens were sanguine, but fifty years ahead is so long a period to look through that they scarcely dared to pin their faith there. Comparison of that prediction with the measure of its fulfilment is easily made without further hint, and is especially gratifying. Discussions continued, and the general demand for a railroad from somewhere grew more and more imperative, until, in the spring of 1853, active work began on what was then called the Oakland and Ottawa Railroad. William P. Innes came about that time, to take charge of the survey between Ada and Grand Haven, and Joel Gray took charge of the work between Ada and Lyons; and then people were kept on the tiptoe of expectation until the arrival of cars over that route (which in i855 became that of the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad by consolidation) in July, I858, over the coming in of that first railroad train there was general joy. In 1854, as soon as the Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids Plank Road became a surety, further excitement and spirited movements began to secure a railroad in that direction. The Great Western Railway through Canada was completed in that year, which circumstance gave additional impetus to the cry for an outlet by rail from Grand Rapids. At a meeting in the Public Hall, March I5, I855, our citizens bravely resolved: "That we are in favor of the construction of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, in preference to any other project, and that we, the citizens of Grand Rapids, will organize and build the road alone, if neces sary, from this city to Kalamazoo." There was about fourteen years of waiting for the devoutly-wished-for consummation of railroad connection southward; but when it came, there were quickly four roads in the bunch-one from Jackson, one direct and one by way of Allegan from Kalamazoo, and one from Chicago by way of- Holland. DETROIT, GRAND HAVEN AND MILWAUKEE. The first railroad incorporation within the old Northwest Territory was that of the Pontiac and Detroit Railroad, chartered by the Territorial Legislature July 31, I830. Five years were allowed to complete the line, but, the corporators failing to carry out their projects, a new corporation, that of the Detroit and Pontiac Railroad Company, was chartered March 7, I834. In 1835 contracts were let for clearing the line at the Detroit end, but the progress of construction was slow. In 1838 the State loaned to the company $ioo,ooo, and before the end of May in that year the road was in operation for a dozen miles. At first the cars were operated by horse power, and on wooden rails. It was opened to Pontiac in July, I843. A locomotive was first used on the line in 1839, and as late as 1845 the cars ran on what was called the strap rail. The Detroit and Pontiac Railroad Company, chartered March 7, I834, and the Oakland and Ottawa Railroad Company, chartered in I848, were consolidated April 21, i855, under the name of the Detroit and Milwaukee Railway Company, to construct a road from Detroit to Grand Haven, a distance of 189 miles. The line west of Pontiac was completed by this company November 22, i858, reaching Grand Rapids early in July, and the first through train from Grand Haven to Detroit passing here September i, I858. Trains between Grand Rapids and Detroit began running July I2, i858. In I86o the property was sold under foreclosure, and a reorganization under the name of the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad Company was effected. In 1873 the new company made default in the interest on its bonds, and the road was put into the hands of C. C. Trowbridge as Receiver, April I, I875. September 4, 1878, it was sold to the bondholders, and in November the company was reorganized as the Detroit, Grand Haven and Milwaukee Railway Company. From the west this road crosses the RAILWAYS-D., G. H. & M.-L. S. & M. S 529 lines of the Chicago and West Michigan and Grand Rapids and Indiana about half a mile north of the city limits, and, crossing Grand River, bears in a southeasterly direction to the depot on Plainfield avenue and East Leonard street; thence, skirting the hills past Highland Park, leaves the city line on the east near Waring and East Bridge streets. An average monthly pay roll of $3,500 is distributed among sixty employes. Eight passenger trains are run daily. This road ever since its construction has been operated in connection with a daily line of steamers across Lake Michigan, between Grand Haven and Milwaukee. It has also made connections with steamboats plying between Chicago, Grand Haven and Muskegon. The principal officers of this railway, up to 1889, have been, since its opening to Grand Rapids: Presidents-C. J. Bridges, i858 to 1863; C. C. Trowbridge, 1863 to i878; S. Barker, 1878 to I880; Francis D. Grey, i88o to 1882; since 1882, Joseph Hickson. General Superintendents -W. K. Muir, i858 to i866; Thomas Bell, i866 to 1872; Andrew Watson, W. K. Muir, S. R. Calloway, each for a brief period; since August, 1884, W. J. Spicer has been General Manager. Secretaries —86I to 1864, W. C. Stephens; 1864 to i866, Thomas Bell; since January, i866, James H. Muir. Agents at Grand Rapids, in successionA. B. Nourse, A. M. Nichols, J. C. McKee, W. Wallace, J. W. Orr, and since November, 1882, F. C. Stratton. LAKE SHORE AND MICHIGAN SOUTHERN. The Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad, though not the first reaching Grand Rapids, as the oldest in the State in its inception, deserves a passing mention of its history. Its beginning was in a charter granted April 22, 1833, by the Territorial Legislature of Michigan, to the Erie and Kalamazoo Railroad Company. It was provided with strap rail, and was opened for business in the fall of 1836, the cars then being drawn by horses. The first formal advertisement of the running of trains appeared in the Tolede Blade, May 16, I837, as follows: 53 TO EMIGRANTS AND TRAVELERS, The Erie and Kalamazoo Railroad is now in full operation between Toledo and Adrian. During the ensuing season trains of cars will run daily to Adrian, there connecting with a line of stages for the West, Michigan City, Chicago and Wisconsin Territory. Emigrants and others destined for Indiana, Illinois and Western Michigan, Will Save Two Days and the corresponding expense, by taking this route in preference to the more lengthened, tedious and expensive route heretofore traveled., All baggage at the risk of the owners. This announcement was signed by the Commissioners of the Railroad Company. No time table was given. The passenger fare between Toledo and Adrian (33 miles) was "12 s." ($I.50), with the right of fifty pounds of baggage. Freight was "4 s." (50 cents) per ioo lbs; salt $i per barrel. Soon the first locomotive west of Schenectady was procured; and in July, 1837, was announced "the arrival of a new passenger car of a pretty, though rather singular and fanciful model." The illustration given on next page is vouched for as a good one of the car thus described. This gothic car was divided into three compartments and would hold twenty-four passengers —eight in each. The entrances were at the side, as the picture shows. It soon went out of use. The Michigan Southern Railroad was opened and operated by the State, and subsequently sold to parties who also purchased the Erie and Kalamazoo Railroad and organized the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad Company. This mammoth corporation comes into Grand Rapids over its leased line from Kalamazoo (Kalamazoo, Allegan and Grand Rapids Railroad). It reached this city in March, 1869; the construction having been pushed from Kalamazoo by way of Allegan, with great energy and celerity, by Ransom Gardner, from which circumstance it was familiarly known in those days as "The Gardner Road." A bonus of $Io,ooo was 530 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. raised by citizeps, on condition that the road should reach Grand Rapids on or before March i, 1869. It came, an engine and flat car entering the town in the afternoon of that day, and the bonus was paid. For a time this company hoped to supplant the Grand Rapids and Indiana in the matter of obtaining the Congressional land grant. In the management, this division of the road extends from Grand Rapids to White Pigeon, ninety-five miles, and is under the charge of R. C. Harris, Division Superintendent, with headquarters at Kalamazoo. In Grand Rapids the freight and passenger depots are on West Bridge street, which is practically the northern terminus of the division, from which all trains start, going in a southerly direction to near south Ticket Agent (I889) at Grand Rapids, G. W. Munson; Freight Agent, Kalamazoo Division at Grand Rapids, C. A. Slauson. GRAND RAPIDS AND INDIANA. At Hartford City, Ind., January I8, 1854, was organized the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company, for the construction of a railroad from that place to the Michigan State Line, in the direction of Grand Rapids. It was intended to make direct connection between Louisville, Ky., and this city. The officers were: President, Joseph Lomax; Secretary, William H. Campbell; Treasurer, Sylvester R. Shelton; Engineer, Josiah D. Cook. To carry out the plans of the company, President Lomax came to, and located in, Sturgis, Mich. The Michi PIONEER RAILWAY PASSENGER CAR OF THE WEST. Jefferson street and Butterworth avenue, at which point the road bears to the west, and the west line of the city is passed near Valey and Butterworth avenues, en route for the Eagle Plaster Mills where it crosses the river. The business of the road at Grand Rapids requires from thirty-five to fifty men and a monthly pay roll of from $I,500 to $2,000; with two freight and two passenger trains each way daily. The first regular passenger train from this city to Kalamazoo over this route left the depot at 8:30 a. m., March 29, 1869. Freight trains began running regularly March 22, 1869. At the Bridge street depot connections are made with the Grand Rapids and Indiana and the Chicago and West Michigan Railroads. gan general railroad law was passed and approved, February 12, I855. The Grand Rapids and Southern Railroad Company was organized at Sturgis, May 29, I855, to extend the corporate rights and powers of the first named company northerly from the State Line to Grand Rapids. August I, 1855, the two companies signed articles for consolidation, and were merged under the name of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company, at Sturgis, Mich., August 28, I855, with the following Directors: Sarell Wood and James Scribner, Grand Rapids; Wilson C. Edsell and Abram Hoag, Otsego; Patrick Marantette, Mendon; William Henry, Jonathan G. Wait, Philip H. BuclI and Joseph Lomax, Sturgis; Francis RAILWAYS-GRAND RAPIDS AND INDIANA. 531 F. Jewett, Lima, Ind.; William S. Boyd, LaGrange, Ind.; John L. Doty and Richard Hartongue, Northport, Ind.; and for Officers: President, Joseph Lomax; Secretary, William Allman; Treasurer, Richard Reed; Chief Engineer, Josiah D. Cook, all of Sturgis, Mich. In 1855 the Fort Wayne and Southern Railroad Company became entangled in difficulties, and the management changed the southern terminus from Hartford City to Fort Wayne. Early in the winter of 1856 the company presented petitions praying Congress to grant land aid, to enable them to construct the road from Grand Rapids to the Straits of Mackinaw. Instead of a land grant direct to the railroad companies, the grant was made to the State of Michigan, and the bill approved by President Pierce, July 3, I856. The Legislature of Michigan did not meet until I857, and during the interim two other companies were organized, intent upon obtaining the land-grant —one at Kalamazoo under the management of George A. Fitch; the other at Grand Rapids, under the name of Grand Rapids and Northern Railroad Company; the latter with the following Directors: William A. Richmond, Daniel Ball, John M. Fox, Wilder D. Foster, Charles Shepard, William H. Withey, John Ball, Francis B. Gilbert, Fred. W. Worden, Albert H. Hovey, George Coggeshall, George C. Evans, Amasa B. Watson. This company, organized in I855, to construct a road to some point on or near Traverse Bay, elected John Ball, President; Daniel Ball, Treasurer; Peter R. L. Peirce, Secretary; William P. Innes, Chief Engineer. Mr. Innes and his assistants made a reconnoisance of the country to be traversed by the proposed road, and at a meeting of the Directors, January 3, 1857, presented his report and estimates. The bill to give the land grant to the Grand Rapids and Northern, after a long struggle, passed the Legislature, amended by striking out Grand Rapids and Northern Railroad, and inserting Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, and on February 14, i857, the Governor approved the act. The grant was accepted by the company February 25, I857. By its terms they were to complete at least twenty continuous miles of the road each year after December, I857, and to finish the entire line within seven years from November I5,.857, fail ing which they should forfeit the grant. When the grant was conferred, the corporate rights of the company extended only from Hartford City to Grand Rapids. The officers returned from the stubborn fight, victorious to be sure, but with a depleted treasury, and with a large amount of legal obligations on their hands. The question most important was, "how can means enough be raised to extend the line from Grand Rapids north to the end of the grant?" From the stock subscriptions not enough could be raised to pay the year's expenses. The law conferring the grant prohibited the issue of stock that was not paid for in full, but a clause in the general railroad law allowed several companies consolidating and merging their stock to agree on the rate at which the stock of each company should go in, and be taken by the new corporation. Under a verbal and mutual arrangement of all the parties interested, the Grand Rapids and Mackinaw Railroad Company was organized May 23, I857, with the following Directors: Sarell Wood, Grand Rapids; Jonathan G. Wait,William Henry, Benajah M. Adams, Philip H. Buck and Richard Reed, Sturgis; Wilson C. Edsell and Edwin Mann, Otsego; John B. Howe, Lima, Ind.; Patrick Marantette, Mendon; John L. Doty, Nortlhport, Ind.; James Z. Gower,Wolcottville, Ind.; Wm. S. Boyd, La Grange, Ind. The line was stated at 215 miles long, from Grand Rapids to the Straits of Mackinaw. June I9, 1857, the Grand Rapids and Fort Wayne Railroad Company was organized at Lima, Ind., to extend from the State line fifty miles to Fort Wayne, with the following Directors: Wm. Allman, Jonathan G. Wait, Richard Reed, Benajah M. Adams and Joseph Lomax, Sturgis; Patrick Marantette, Mendon; Wilson C. Edsell and Abram Hoag, Otsego; Francis T. Jewett, John B. Howe and James B. Howe, Lima; John L. Doty, Northport. June 26, 1857, the three companies consolidated and merged under the original name of Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company, receiving as full paid stock 2, 60 shares of the Grand Rapids and Mackinaw Company on which there had been paid ten per cent. The line was located, and maps were placed with the State Department at Lansing, and approved by Kinsley S. Bingham, Governor, November, 23, I857. On January I, 1858, the HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Land Department at Washington accepted and approved the line, as the basis of the adjustment of the land grant made to the company. The act of the Legislature of Michigan, conferring the land grant upon this company, gave them the right to sell 120 sections, on the completion of each twenty miles of the land grant part of the road. Adjusted by the proper departments at Washington, the net amount of the grant was 678,889.7 acres, being an average of only 74,398.8 for each twenty miles, or 3,719.94 acres per mile. The expectation was, that the land would sell as soon as the road was constructed, for an amount sufficient to pay the funded debt of the company. The company by the grant and its amendments, were to receive about, I50,ooo acres, but by reason of there not being enough unsold public lands, only received about 850,000 acres. The first twenty miles of the land grant part of the road was one of the most expensive divisions of the line. The withholding of so much of the lands from sale (that were authorized to be sold by the Congressional grant), the limited time given for the completion of the first twenty miles, and other unforeseen matters proved too much for the company; therefore the Legislature extended the time to December I, I859. The company again went on to prosecute the work with renewed energy, but were still unable to complete the first twenty miles in time. The Board of Control had a vague and indefinite power conferred upon them to declare the grant forfeited and confer the lands upon some other party, which, however, seeing the difficulties in the way, the Board did not exercise. Yet, as the time had lapsed, the company could gain no credit or funds on account of the land grant. But they sought and obtained from the Legislature in I86i further extension of time, by which they were allowed till June 3, i866 to complete the road. The interruption in financial affairs caused by the War of the Rebellion, together with the high prices and great scarcity of iron and all railroad equipments, prevented the company from making much advance, and at times things looked so dark as to discourage the stockholders, and for several years the Directors held over for want of a sufficient representation at the annual meetings, until July I5, i868, when, there being a quorum, the following named persons were elected Directors: Joseph K. Edgerton, Pliny Hoagland, James R. Bunyan, Jonathan G. Wait, Richard Reed, Israel Kellogg, James A. Walter, George H. White. and Mancel Talcott. In the President's report at that time, July I, I868, is the following statement: "The following equipment is now in use, viz: 2 engines, the Pioneer and Muskegon; i passenger coach, i baggage car, 6 new box cars, 24 flat cars, 5 hand cars-total, 2 locomotives and 39 cars, the aggregate valuation of which is $43,000." The contrast between that and the present equipment is both interesting and instructive; the enumeration now showing 66 locomotives, valued at $304,060, and 3, 40 cars, $1,020,000; total, July I, 1888, $I,324,060. The gross earnings in 1867 were $22,767. 13, as against $2,361,901.44 in 1887. March 3, 1865, an act was passed by Congress extending the time for the completion of the road, eight years, until June 3, I874. The protection of the land grant by this extension, and the bonds issued by various corporations and villages enhanced the credit of the company, and enabled them to complete the first twenty miles, from Bridge street in Grand Rapids, to Cedar Springs, which was opened for business December 25, 1867. But the failure of the company to pay the interest on the bonds issued under the mortgages, again hurt their credit. July 14, i868, the Board of Directors authorized the President to endorse all municipal bonds voted and issued under the provisions of an act of the Legislature of Michigan, approved February 5, 1864, in aid of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, with a similar guaranty endorsed on the bonds of the City of Fort Wayne, and also guaranteeing the payment of the interest coupons semi-annually in the City of New York. The City of Grand Rapids had voted $Ioo,ooo of aid bonds, which were pronounced unconstitutional and void by the State Supreme Court, but in 1872 they were held valid by the United States courts. Early in i869 the company were vexed by a suit in behalf of judgment creditors residing at Allegan and Grand Rapids, praying for an injunction, the appointment of a receiver, and a dissolution of the cor RAILWAYS-GRAND RAPIDS AND INDIANA. 533 poration, alleging its insolvency. This was estopped by payment of the claims. But, as it became apparent to the company that more adequate judicial protection was needed for self-defense, suit was instituted in the United States Circuit Court for the Western District of Michigan, by William Fleming, in behalf of himself and other bondholders, and on January I9, 1869, Jesse L. Williams of Fort Wayne, with the assent of the company and without prejudice to its rights, was appointed Receiver. Similar proceeding with similar result was had in the United States Court in Indiana. Receiver Williams immediately took possession and managed the affairs and construction of the road with signal energy and ability until June 14, I87I. In the early part of 1869, it became evident that unless more effective measures could be adopted, the land grant would pass from the control of the corporation, and, May I, an agreement was entered into with the Continental Improvement Company to complete the line from Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Little Traverse Bay, Michigan, "within the time and in the manner limited and provided by the acts of Congress and State Laws applicable thereto." To perform this contract, it was necessary, on the part of the Continental Improvement Company, to construct twenty miles of railroad, from Cedar Springs to Morley, within sixty days. This seemingly impossible task of getting all the material together, engaging men to do the labor, cutting the ties, grading the road and putting it into good running order, was accomplished, and June 21, 1869, fifty-one days from the date of the agreement, the last rail of that section was laid, and the Governor notified. Thus was the grant saved, and the work was formally accepted by the Governor, September I,I869. June 20, 1871, formal notice was published by the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company of the discharge of the Reciver and that the Continental Improvement Company had taken possession of the property under terms of a mutual agreement. A history of this road would not be complete without reference to this Continental Improvement Company, whose completion of the work contributed so largely to the prosperity of our city. It was a corporation created under the laws of Pennsylvania, and chartered in I868, for the pur pose of building the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad. George W. Cass, of Pittsburg, President of the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne and Chicago Railway, became interested in the road, and succeeded in securing the co-operation of certain Indiana and Pennsylvania capitalists, and the Continental Improvement Company was organized, with a capital stock of $2,000,000oo-George W. Cass, President; William Thaw, Vice President; William R. Shelby, Secretary and Treasurer; Thomas A. Scott, Director. At first the principal offices were at Pittsburg, but in September, 1871, were moved to Grand Rapids, with W. R. Shelby as Treasurer and Secretary in charge. The operation of the road was in charge of J. N. McCullough, of Pittsburg, as General Manager; Charles E. Gorham, of Fort Wayne, as Superintendent, and Henry D. Wallen, Jr., Assistant Superintendent. Under the terms of the agreement, bonds were to be issued by G. R. & I. R. Co., to the amount of $8,ooo,ooo, secured by a mortgage upon its railroad, land grant, and franchises. September 30, 1869, the G. R. & I. R. R. Co. made an agreement with the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne and Chicago Railway Company, by which the latter company became the guarantor of the interest on $4,000,000 of the bonds thus secured, which agreement was assigned to the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, October I, 1869. In pursuance of this agreement, the Continental Improvement Company contracted to finish the entire road, on or before June 3, 1874, in accordance with the act of March 3, 1865, fixing that as the limit of time for completion. From this time on, the Continental Improvement Company built, operated and practically controlled the road until December I, I873, at which date they turned it over to the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company. October I, 1870, the line from Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Paris, Michigan (20I miles), was opened for business, the first "through" train between those points running over the line at that date. The track from the south into Grand Rapids was finished September 13, 1870. The entire line from Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Petoskey, Michigan, a distance of 333 miles, was finished November 25, 1873, and on December 23, a committee appointed by the directors, consisting of Robert B. Potter, Thomas 534 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. D. Messier and Pliny Hoagland, began the examination, and submitted a report of the work January 14, 1874, upon the basis of which, two days later, a settlement contract was issued between the two companies, by the terms of which the road was accepted by the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company as completed, December i, I873. June I, I871, the Cincinnati, Richmond and Fort Wayne Railroad Company leased its road and property to the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company. The former road was opened for business January I, 1872, at which date it was turned over to the lessees. Thus the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, with its direct connections, furnishes the longest north and south line in the country, and its history is of prominent importance, in its relation to the business and commercial affairs of this city. The road was opened to Mackinaw City July 3, 1882, and the distance by this line from that point to Cincinnati is 529 miles, connecting at the latter place with a railway system running nearly due south to the Gulf of Mexico. In i886 the company projected an "airline" branch to Muskegon, and on December i of the same year it was open for business, a distance of 392 miles, thus bringing that best port on the east side of Lake Michigan within about an hour's ride of Grand Rapids. From December I, 1872, until February, I874, Charles E. Gorham was Assistant General Manager of the G. R. & I.; since that time W. O. Hughart has been President and General Manager. The local freight agents at Grand Rapids have been: W. H. Lobdell, 1870-71; C. G. Douglas, 1871-73; A. M. Healy, 1873-75; W. A. May, 1875-77; I. C. Smith, 1877-82; H. P. Burgwin, 1882-84; W. B. Bostock, 1884-87, and since then Robert Orr. From December, I870, to May, 1872, W. S. Cook was Agent at West Grand Rapids. In 1889 the following officers were reported as located at Grand Rapids: President and General Manager, W. O. Hughart; Vice President and Treasurer, W. R. Shelby; Auditor, F. A. Gorham; Secretary and Assistant to the President, J. H. P. Hughart; Superintendent of Northern Division, J. M. Metheany; Chief Engineer, G. S. Johnson; General Passenger Agent, C. L. Lockwood; General Freight Agent, C. E. Gill; General Counsel, T. J. O'Brien; and of the company Directors, W. O. Hughart, Harvey J. Hollister and W. R. Shelby. This road has been one of the chief factors, indeed through this region the very chief, in the development of Northern Michigan. It has promoted the building of important commercial and industrial centers where but twenty years ago was a wilderness unbroken save by the lumberman's ax, and these towns with their rural population have vital interests in, and dependence upon, Grand Rapids. WILLIAM R. SHELBY, for the past twenty years connected with railroad interests and management in Grand Rapids, was born December 4, 1842, in Lincoln County, Kentucky. His education was acquired in the preparatory schools and Centre College of Danville, Kentucky. By the turbulent times in that State at the breaking out of the War of the Rebellion he was prevented from completing a full collegiate course of studies. When Kentucky was occupied, notwithstanding her "neutrality" policy, by the Rebel and Union armies, though but nineteen years of age, having an extended acquaintance with citizens of Kentucky and their political differences, and a good knowledge of the country thereabout, he was able to render valuable aid to the Union cause in the "Home Guard" service, and in enrolling and recruiting men for the National Army. From 1863 to I865 he was engaged in supplying wood to steamers on the Mississippi River at Island No. 47, under protection of United States gunboats. Afterward until I868, he was connected with the Adams Express Company's office in Louisville, Kentucky, but in 1869 he removed to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and accepted the position of Treasurer and Secretary of the Continental Improvement Company; organized for the purpose of constructing the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad in Indiana and Michigan. At the head of this company were Gen. G. W. Cass, Thomas A. Scott and William Thaw, the first being President, and associated with them in the work were such eminent men and financiers as the Hon. Samuel J. Tilden and J. F. D. Lanier of New York, the Hon. John Sherman of Ohio, Reuben Springer of Cincinnati, and others. The three leading Directors of the Continental 4 —l' JAW, WILLIAM R. SHELBY-GRAND RIVER VALLEY RAILROAD. 535 Improvement Company, at that time being officers of other prominent railroads, necessarily threw much of the financial management upon the Treasurer, and that his work was creditably performed. results have shown. Mr. Shelby was also, from 1870 to 1873, Treasurer of the Southern Railway Security Company, which controlled the East Tennessee, Virginia and Georgia, the Memphis and Charleston, and other southern railroads. In 1871 a branch office of the Continental Improvement Company was established in Grand Rapids, and Mr. Shelby removed here, taking charge, having in the year previous been elected Treasurer and Secretary of the Grand Rapids and Indiana and the Michigan and Lake Shore Railroad Companies also. In March, 1877, he resigned his official connection with the Continental Improvement Company and was elected Vice President and Treasurer of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad Company, which position he still holds, besides performing the duties of Purchasing Agent. He is, and has been, extensively engaged in wheat raising in the Northwest, and has managed the "Cass Farm," a portion of what is more generally known as the "Great Dalrymple Farm," in Dakota, since its opening in I875. He is President of a farming company in Indiana and Illinois, engaged in draining some 20,000 acres of land about fifty miles south of Chicago. He is a Director of the "Old National Bank" of Grand Rapids, Mich., and President and Director in a number of manufacturing companies in this city. Mr. Shelby is Senior Warden of St. Mark's (Episcopal) Church. He has served as a member on the Board of Education, and while there, as Chairman of the Committee on Grounds, established the system of adorning and ornamenting a portion of the public school grounds, which renders them such an attractive feature of the city, at the same time leaving room for playgrounds for the children. At present he is a member of the Board of Public Works, to which position he was appointed in May, I888. Politically he is an adherent of the Democratic party. Mr. Shelby married, June I6, I869, at St. Stephen's Church, Sewickley, Pennsylvania, Mary C., daughter of Gen. George W. Cass. From this union seven children were born-five sons and two daughterssix of whom are now living. An engraving of Mr. Shelby's handsome residence on Lafayette street appears in this volume. He is a representative man among the enterprising, public-spirited people of the Valley City. GRAND RIVER VALLEY RAILROAD. The Michigan Central Railroad is one of the great trunk lines, and reaches this city over the Grand Rapids Division of its system. This branch was built from Jackson to Grand Rapids, a distance of ninety-four miles, in 1869, and was then known as the Grand River Valley Railroad. The first train from Jackson over this line arrived January i, 1870, and consisted of the locomotive "Muskegon" drawing six cars. It was the first run on the then new time card which promised four trains daily each way, and made a very appropriate New Year's gift to the business interests of the city. But it did not long remain an independent road. From its conception almost it had been an adjunct of and controlled by the Michigan Central, and on the i8th of April, 1870, it passed entirely under the management and became a branch of that corporation. In common with the G. R. & I., C. & W. M., and D., L. & N., it uses the Union Depot for its passenger traffic, and jointly with the East Grand Rapids station of the Chicago and W\est Michigan attends to the freight business. During the twelve months prior to July, i888, the volume of its traffic equaled a monthly average of 4,508 tons forwarded and 5,078 tons received; with an average monthly revenue of $20,245.54. For the construction of this road the company received a subsidy from the city of Grand Rapids, which originally was to have been $ioo,ooo, but was settled by the payment of $25,000, according to an amicable agreement. The principal officers have been since the road reached this city: Presidents-James F. Joy till 1877; Samuel Sloan, 1877-78; Wm. H. Vanderbilt, 1878-83; Henry B. Ledyard from last named date. General Agents at Grand Rapids Station —A. B. Nourse, W. R. Martin, and J. R. Wood, prior to December, 1876; C. J. Hupp, 1876-83; J. T. Schultz, 1883-84; C. H. Norris, 1884-88; from September, i888, F. M. Briggs. Local Agents at G. R. Station-To December, 1876, A. B. Nourse, 536 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. W. R. Martin and J. R. Wood, in succession; 1876-83, C. J. Hupp; 1883-84, J. T. Schultz; 1884-87, E. H. Dayrell; since May, I887, A. E. Snuggs. CHICAGO AND WEST MICHIGAN RAILWAY. The Chicago and West Michigan Railway, while not strictly speaking a Grand Rapids road, is very closely connected with the history of the city; the headquarters of the General Superintendent and General Passenger Agent being here. The company was formed October I, I88I, by the consolidation of the Chicago and West Michigan Railroad from New Buffalo to Pentwater, a distance of 170 miles and with 92 miles of branch line giving 262 miles of track; the Grand Rapids, Newaygo and Lake Shore Railroad from Grand Rapids to White Cloud, a distance of 46 miles; the Grand Haven Railroad from Allegan to Muskegon, 57 miles, and the Indiana and Michigan Railroad of Indiana. The Chicago and Michigan'Lake Shore Railroad Company was organized April 24, I869, and reorganized as the Chicago and West Michigan Railway Company January I, I879. The Grand Haven Railroad Company was organized February i6, 1869, as the Michigan Lake Shore Railroad Company. The Grand Rapids, Newaygo and Lake Shore Railroad Company was organized September 1i, 1869, and opened to White Cloud September 24, I875. The company use the Union Depot in connection with the Grand Rapids and Indiana; Detroit, Lansing and Northern, and Michigan Central Railroads, and at Bridge street connect with the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad and with the Detroit, Grand Haven and Milwaukee at the Junction north of city limits. They have between three and four miles of track in the city, entering on the south at Godfrey avenue from Grandville, and on the north at North street from Mill Creek, making connection for this Division at Holland, 25 miles southwest, and with the Big Rapids branch on the Newaygo Division, 47 miles north at White Cloud. The opening of the division from Holland to this city, was accomplished January 6, 1872, and that of the Newaygo division took place September I I of the same year. The company has in the city about 120 men on the station pay rolls, which amount to some $I2,000 per month. For the handling of freight on this line there are two freight depots, one on Cherry street in connection with the Michigan Central, and the other, called West Grand Rapids, on Winter street. Some idea of the importance of this station may be had from the following figures of freight handled (i888): West Grand Rapids depot — monthly average of freight forwarded 4,326 tons; revenue therefrom $5,630.29; freight received, average per month, 9.655 tons; revenue, $8,552.47. East side office-tons forwarded, average, 2,417; revenue $3,729.i3; received, tons, 5,356; revenne $5,297.28. The pushing through to Newaygo of that branch of the road in 1872 was accomplished in the face of great difficulties by the indefatigable energy and persistence of David P. Clay, then its President, and the strong backing of Directors James W. Converse and others. During the administration of J. B. Mulliken and Chas. M. Heald the line has been extended from Baldwin to Traverse City, which gives the north a direct line to Chicago. At Grand Rapids in i890 are all the general offices of the Chicago and West Michigan; Detroit, Lansing and Northern, and Saginaw Valley and St. Louis Railroads, under one management: General Manager, Charles M. Heald; General Superintendent J. K. V. Agnew; Chief Engineer J. J. McVean; General Passenger Agent, WM. A. Gavett; Assistant General Freight Agent, M. W. Rose; General Attorney, William Alden Smith, and Local Freight Agent. A. E. Snuggs. GRAND RAPIDS, LANSING AND DETROIT. As yet but little can be said of the Grand Rapids, Lansing and Detroit Railroad, the infant not having made much record, but it is fast working that way, having one of the finest and best freight depots in the city. The articles of incorporation were filed with the Secretary of State May 20, 1887, the company being formed for the purpose of constructing and operating a railroad between Grand Rapids and Lansing, to be a branch of the Detroit, Lansing and Northern Railroad. The right of way was quietly purchased by the officers of the D., L. & N. R. R. Co. and persons in their behalf, and in July, i888, the new line was opened and a saving of time and distance proclaimed between Grand Rapids and Detroit, all trains going to the Union Depot RAILWAYS-WHAT RAILROADS HAVE DONE. 537 pending the construction and equipment of its own buildings. It now claims to be making the fastest time of any railroad in the State, covering the distance from Grand Rapids to Detroit, 153 miles, in three hours and fifty minutes. WHAT RAILROADS HAVE DONE. Who would turn the wheels of the railway back to forty years ago? Grand Rapids was then in a condition of almost complete isolation from the rest of the world, the only means of communication being over the rough and muddy wagon roads, south and southeasterly, for distances ranging from forty to a hundred miles, by horse or ox teams; and in the summer season passage by the river and lakes. The change from that day to this has been such as even to have even dreamed of would have astounded the pioneers, and yet, in traffic and travel it is not greater in proportion than the increase in population, wealth and trade. Then the little village was but an out-of-theway, advance picket of civilization. Then the railroad was far in the rear of the colonist. These conditions are reversed. The railroad now leads the settler. It precedes the farmer, carries him to a new home, and returns the first fruits of his toil to a profitable market. In 1847 a young mechanic here picked up his tools and packed his trunk preparatory to going back to his native eastern town. "Stay where you are, my lad," said Henry R. Williams, "you will yet see the day when we shall have by these rapids twelve thousand inhabitants." Little did even Williams dream that his prediction would be verified seven fold. In thirty years we have seen the railroad become not only an indispensable convenience to all the country, but the maker of cities, as well, and of great commercial marts. Grand Rapids has become the fortunate center of a system of railroads, putting her men of brains, of pluck, enterprise and capital, in direct communication with all the world. These iron arms of commerce stretch out in every direction. Beginning no farther back than i858, we have seen the Detroit, Grand Haven and Milwaukee Railroad, the Grand Rapids and Indiana, the 54 Lake Shore and Michigan Southern, the Michigan Central, the Chicago and West Michigan, and, almost to an hour thirty years after the arrival of the first railroad train, the opening of the Grand Rapids, Lansing and Detroit Railroad, the newest of these helping hands, extended to our city. From two trains a day on one road we have come to a system of six roads, with trains arriving and departing in ten different directions, at an average of one every ten minutes, day and night. From the town of afew thousand people, the name of which was then but just becoming known, we have grown to be the second city in the State, with its products sought for in every part of the civilized world. The acquisition of this railroad system involved a struggle, hard, long, energetic and persistent. The consummation brings a rich reward. There was scolding about the men and money that did it, censuring of "land-grabbers" and "bloated capitalists," but now, who will say that the conquest is not worth all its cost? Look at Grand Rapids, whose stature is increased tenfold in population, and twenty fold in wealth-by railroads. Look at these thriving manufacturing establishments, and the growing cities and villages about us, helped into existence and pushed steadily forward-by railroads. Look at thousands of farms, brought from the wild state under cultivation; opened, cleared, and improved to ten or twenty times their original value, and with markets for their products amounting annually to hundreds of thousands of dollars, created for them at their very doorsby railroads. Study for a moment the divisions of labor, and the great field given to the many different classes of laborers and mechanics in the city and all through this region-by railroads. Think of all these, and of the interdependence and mutual relations existing between them, and then answer-who would turn back the wheels? In the West especially, railroads develop the country, stimulate enterprise, and build up cities. Without the aid of these highways of commercial intercourse, pluck, energy and enthusiasm would be of comparatively little avail. 538 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. RAILWAY MILEAGE IN THE STATE. YEAR. MILES. 1838.......... 62 1839............ 71 1840............ 104 1841........... 147 1842............ 147 1843............ 180 1844............ 220 1845.......... 233 1846............ 279 1847........... 279 1848............ 326 1849............ 336 1850............ 380 1851............ 421 1852............ 425 1853............ 425 1854............ 425 1855............ 462 1856............ 530 1857............ 579 1858............ 703 1859............ 770 1860............ 770 1861.......... 777 1862............ 811 1833............ 812 YEAR. MILES. 1864....... 891 1865.......... 931 1866......... 943 1867............ 1,066 1868............ 1,124 1869....,.... 1,362 1870............ 1,736 1871............ 2,293 1872...........,822 1873............ 3,252 1874........... 3,313 1875............ 3,327 1876............ 3,410 1877............ 3,455 1878......... 3,564 1879............ 3,657 1880........... 3,823 1881............ 4,252 1882............4,609 1883.... 4,966 1884.......... 5,120 1885............ 5,247 1886......... 5,577 1887........... 5,768 1888............ 6,399 1889.......... 7,050 FACILITIES AND FREIGHTS. The Grand Rapids Transfer and Junction Railroad Company was organized under the general railroad law of the State and incorporated February i, 1882, by Franklin B. Wallin, President; Wm. T. Bentley, Vice President; Adrian C. Zwemer, Treasurer; Charles Bentley, Secretary; Charles Welch, and A. L. Chubb; for the purpose of building a junction road to connect with the Chicago and West Michigan Railway near Watson street and the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern at Straight street, a distance of about two miles. It is owned and operated by the Chicago and West Michigan Company under a verbal lease at will. The Grand Rapids Freight Bureau was organized in i886 with George W. Gay, President, and Charles R. Sligh, Secretary, for the purpose of securing uniform freight rates and classification and abolishing discriminations against Grand Rapids Manufactories. While in existence the Bureau did good work toward accomplishing its object, but on the organization of the Grand Rapids Board of Trade that body assumed the work of this organization, taking its books and papers and carrying on the work not only for one branch of industry but for the benefit of all the industrial interests of the city. EXPRESS LINES. In November, I853, William Chart, of Plainwell, started a light parcels express between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, which he operated for some time. The business was done with horses and spring wagons, but little less cumbrous than the lumber wagon of the time. In 1854 the American Express Company began business in Grand Rapids, with William J. Welles as agent. In 1859 Truman H. Lyon was agent for the same company, and was soon succeeded by Crawford Angell, who, in May, i880, was promoted to be Assistant Superintendent of the Michigan Division, which place he still holds. Mr. Angell was the first express messenger on the railroad, bringing the first through express run from Detroit over the Detroit and Milwaukee line, July 3, I858, on which trip the engine jumped the track two or three times between Saddlebag Swamp and the Grand Rapids station. He had before been stage agent and express messenger between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Crawford Angell was born in Massachusetts, April 2, 1827, and came to Grand Rapids in 1845, and for several years was about the National Hotel in various capacities; meantime attending the Grand Rapids Academy two years and doing chores to pay for his board. He has been Treasurer and Mayor of the city, as is noted elsewhere; but his chief pursuit has been' in the express business. S. P. Wormley, the present agent of the American Express Company, who succeeded Angell in i88o, is one of the oldest express men in point of service in the United States, having been in the employ of the company as messenger and agent between Buffalo and Detroit before the existence of western railroads, making his runs on stage coaches and such other modes of conveyance as were used in those earlier days. The Adams Express Company began business in Grand Rapids in I879, but by agreement with the United States Express Company and interchange of territory with them the office was discontinued in I882 and reopened again in January, 1887, on account of a contract to cover all the lines operated by the Pennsylvania Railroad 1% EXPRESS COMPANIES-HORACE W. DAVIS. 539 Company. At this time Robert W. Innes was appointed agent, and was succeeded in April, i888, by O. A. Wells, the present agent, who has been an employe of the company since 1883. The number of men employed is at present twenty-four, which in the busy season is increased to thirty, the average monthly pay roll being about $I,500. In connection with and operated by the Adams are the Texas, Pitt and Scott's Foreign, and the Southern Express, thus giving Grand Rapids direct connection "as the crow flies" by express with all parts of the world. The United States Express Company opened their office in Grand Rapids in 187I -W. S. Bradley, Agent. He was followed by C. E. Cone, who acted as agent until 1877, when it was consolidated with the American Express Company, with Crawford Angell, Agent. In I882 they opened a separate office, with Thomas Haggart, Agent, who was succeeded by M. H. Sorrick, the present agent, February I5, i886. The present force is nine with a monthly pay roll of $600. Under the same management is represented the Baltimore and Ohio Express Company, the Pacific Express Company and the Morris European and American (Foreign) Express. The Union Express Company, engaged in freighting goods in special cars, opened an office in Grand Rapids in February, 1857, with Sidney S. Ball as agent, which was operated for some time. The Grand Rapids Cold Storage and Transfer Company whose main business is the handling of goods and property in transit to and fro between the railroad depots and merchants and business men of the city, is the successor of a transfer agency which for some ten years had been conducted by John L. Shaw, Horace W. Davis and others. HORACE W. DAVIS is a native of Niagara County, New York, born Dec. i, I833. In i836 the family came to Grand Rapids and soon settled just south of Leonard street, by the west bank of the river, where his father, Ebenezer Davis, now living in Wyoming township, took a fractional eighty of Government land in i840. They moved to the farm in Wyoming in 1852. Horace received a common school education, and in early life worked at farming. About 1873 he received the appointment of mail route agent on what is now the Chicago and West Michigan Railway. After serving a year in that position he resigned it and entered the dry goods trade at Grandville, in which he was associated with M. H. McCoy; remaining in that business about three years, when he sold out. In I877 he was appointed Deputy Sheriff of Kent County, in which office he served faithfully four years, and was reappointed in I88I, continuing in that position until appointed by the Mayor Chief of Police in May of that year, when the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners was constituted, which appointment was unanimously confirmed by that Board. After serving as Chief three months he purchased an interest in the Transfer Agency of J. L. Shaw & Co., and continued in the management of that until in March, I890, he sold the business to the Grand Rapids Cold Storage and Transfer Company. At present he is engaged in house moving, farming and the raising of fine blooded horses. Mr. Davis married, at Grandville, October i, I865, Mary A. Moody, daughter of the late Lewis Moody, one of the very early settlers of this county. They had one child, Mary Angie, who died young. Mrs. Davis died January 13, I873, aged thirty years. Mr. Davis is a member of Grand River Lodge No. 34, F. & A. M.; of Grand Rapids Chapter, R. A. M.; of De Molai Commandery No. 5, Knights Templar, and of DeWitt Clinton Consistory, in which he has taken all the degrees to and including the thirty-second. A resident from early childhood, he has seen all that there is of the growth and progress of this region. CHAPTER XLVIII. STREET RAILWAYS AND GRAVEL ROADS. STREET RAILWAY COMPANY OF GRAND RAPIDS. The. original movement for the establishment of a street railway in Grand Rapids was made by William A. Richmond, John W. Peirce, Henry Grinnell, Wm. H. Withey and others, who on May I9, 1864, secured the passage of an ordinance by the Common Council giving them the right to construct a street railroad from the D. & M. R. R. depot down Canal and up Monroe and Fulton streets as far as Jefferson avenue. It required a license fee and an annual tax of $15 per car. This charter was repealed, October 11, 1864, and a new one passed, granting similar privileges to George Jerome of Detroit, Daniel Owen of New York and Thomas S. Sprague of Saginaw. The cars were started May io, 1865. In December, 1869, the line was sold for $39,200. George S. Frost, trustee for himself and others, was the purchaser. The Canal and Monroe street line was the only one until the summer of 1873, when the Division street extension to the fair grounds was constructed and cars began running there early in September of that year. In 1875 the line to Reeds Lake was put into operation. This was afterward made a "dummy" road, worked by a steam engine. As started, this project included a line through the city to the West Side and in two or three streets there. From the lake it came down Wealthy avenue, Lagrave, Monroe, Division and Lyon and through Kent street. Its officers in I875 were Hiram Knapp, President; David Thompson, Secretary; J. W. Boynton, Treasurer and General Manager. Within the following ten years lines were built in Scribner, Stocking and West Bridge streets, crossing both the Bridge and Pearl street bridges in their connections. In 1883 an association of Cleveland and Grand Rapids capitalists purchased the several street railway franchises; and by an ordidance passed in August, 1885, they were consolidated in a single corporation: President, Charles A. Otis; Vice President, L. H. Withey; Treasurer, M. S Crosby; Secretary, I. M. Weston. From that time increased investments and great improvements were the order, as well as extension of the lines of street track. The corporation as thus organized is known as The Street Railway Company of Grand Rapids. Of the prior or intermediary companies, George W. Thayer was Manager and Ebenezer Anderson Superintendent of the Grand Rapids Street Railway Company, for several years; of the Reeds Lake branch line George W. Thayer and J. H. McKee were managers; of the Division street line William Winegar was President and Superintendent and Jacob Kleinhans Secretary; of the Scribner street line J. W. Boynton was Manager. The new arrangement brought all the lines constructed prior to i886 under one control. The company has since made heavy outlays in the construction of new roads, tracks, routes, buildings and other betterments, and in the purchase of cars and equipments. They have a capital of $i,ooo,ooo invested; and are operating about twenty-six miles of track including the dummy line to the Reeds Lake resort, where they have spacious and handsome grounds and a pretty pavilion. They control five lines, have their own car shops and barns; employ i80 men, I20 cars, and nearly 500 horses; cover a daily travel averaging about 4,500 miles, and carried in the year preceding July I, 1889, some 4,500,000 passengers. Average speed of cars-five and a half miles per hour. All lines are run without change of cars, and each passes through the business center of the city. The lines as at present systematized are: Canal, Monroe and Division STREET RAILWAYS-ELECTRIC-CABLE. 541 streets, from the north line to the south line of the city; Wealthy avenue and Scribner street, from the east city line across Bridge street bridge and north to the city limits; Stocking street and Jefferson avenue, from north end of Stocking street across Bridge street bridge and by way of South Division, Blakely avenue, Jefferson avenue and Hall street to near the southeast corner of the city; Cherry street and Eighth Ward from the east city line across Pearl street bridge to near the southwest corner of the city; Bridge street from the west city line to Canal street and thence to the Union Depot. On the first mentioned line cars run every five minutes; on the others every ten minutes. The dummy line to Reeds Lake has not hitherto been operated in the winter season; in the open season it makes close connection with the horse car lines in the city. The company have received a concession for the use of electric power in runthe cars, and preparations are in progress for that change. At the company election in June, 1889, the following were chosen: President, Samuel Mather; Vice President, C. G. Swensberg; Treasurer, George R. Perry; Secretary, George C. Peirce; Superintendent, Andries Bevier. REEDS LAKE ELECTRIC RAILWAY. The Reeds Lake Electric Railway Company, organized April 15, 1890, is constructing a street railway line to be operated by electricity by the overhead wire system, from the east line of the city, starting at Fulton street, and running to the north side of Reeds Lake, a distance of about two miles. Officers: Sybrant Wesselius, President; John Dregge, Secretary and Treasurer; Daniel McCoy, J. C. Porter, John Dregge, S. Wesselius, Directors. NORTH PARK STREET RAILWAY. The North Park Street Railway Company, organized in I889, have a track completed, starting from a junction with the Valley City Street and Cable Railway Company's line and extending from the north line of the city at Taylor street past the Soldiers' Home and to the bank of Grand River at what is known as the town-line or gravel road bridge. It is two and a half miles in length. It is well equipped and operated by steam power. George W. Thayer is President, and C. C. Comstock Secretary and Treasurer of the company. Directors: G. W. Thayer, C. C. Comstock, John E. More, Julius Houseman, A. J. Bowne, G. G. Briggs, James Blair. VALLEY CITY STREET AND CABLE RAILWAY. November io, 1884, a report made in the Common Council recommended that permission be given for the construction of a cable railway in Lyon, Union and East Bridge streets, and an ordinance was passed February i6, I885, granting a franchise with conditions. Some efforts toward starting the work were made in the following year, without much progress. The Valley City Street and Cable Railway was incorporated June 6, I887-President, Wm. P. Innes; Secretary and Treasurer, Robert W. Innes; Engineer, Wm. Phenix. Their first cable line was in Lyon street, from the foot to Grand avenue; and horse-car lines in connection were constructed from the foot of Lyon to Waterloo and down Grandville avenue to the south city line, also across Fulton street bridge and to the west city line, and one north from Lyon on Barclay street. The company began work in August, and the horse-car branches were running in October. The cable in Lyon street was drawn to place April 13, I888, grip cars ran on the I6th, and soon began their regular trips. The power house is by the Lyon street and Grand avenue corner, where very powerful steam machinery is placed to operate the line. The lines in the early part of 1890 are: Lyon and Bridge street (cable), from the corner of East Fulton and East streets over Fulton, Union, Lyon, Canal, and East Bridge streets and Grand avenue. Ottawa street (cable), from the City Hall by the way of Canal and East Bridge streets to Ottawa, and over North Ionia and Taylor streets to the north city line at Sweet street. West Third ward line (cable), from Pearl street and business center to city limits by Louis, Spring, Wealthy avenue, Sheldon, Wenham avenue and Lafayette streets. Grandville avenue line (horse), from Canal street and business center to city limits south on Grandville avenue. West Fulton street line (horse), Fulton, Straight, Jackson, Pine and Bridge and business center. Barclay street line (horse), Coit, Trowbridge and Clancy to D., G. H. & M. track. Ionia street line, south on Ionia to and beyond the city limits. Some seven miles of roadway are completed, or nearly so. A central power house plant is in the course of development and construction, at the foot of Lyon street, between Campau street and the river. ,542 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Twenty-five passenger and twenty-three grip (cable) cars are in use, also fifteen passenger cars drawn by horses. The capital invested is nearhalf a million dollars. There has been some change of officers and management. Directors chosen July 3, I889: A. J. Bowne, James Blair, John W. Blodgett and A. D. Rathbone, of Grand Rapids; W. S. Crosby and John M. Hagar, of Chicago; H. P. Breed, of Minneapolis — President, A. J. Bowne; Vice President, J. W. Blodgett; Secretary, W. S. Crosby; Assistant Secretary, Accountant and Purchasing Agent, H. P. Baker; Treasurer, James Blair. GRAVEL ROADS. Notwithstanding an abundance of material of excellent quality, and in most places within easy reach, the idea of constructing good gravel roads, after the fashion of the New England turnpike, seems not to have been entertained here until after the advent of railroads, or until the settlement was nearly thirty-five years old. Most of the pioneers had been somewhat familiar with the success of turnpike toll roads in the eastern country, but no attempts were made to imitate them here. Road improvements for a quarter of a century were, chiefly, simply such as could be made by the farmers, working out their highway taxes under the supervision of a pathmaster. They consisted only of making the roads tolerably passable by slightly raising the center, constructing cheap bridges where these were indispensable, digging ditches upon either side for drainage, and across swamps or marshy places the corduroy road. This latter was made by laying in close contact, rails, split logs, poles, or in some cases large logs, crosswise along the track, with a thin covering, usually of brush or of the adjacent soil. They were not very agreeable carriage ways, but served for the passage of loaded teams over what were otherwise almost impassable sloughs. Macadamizing was not attempted here on country roads. The idea of plank roads was the first seized upon for improvement, but only in a few instances put into practice. At length, as the State became thickly settled, and more permanent and solid roadways were needed from the city into the country, or from the country to its market, the scheme of making gravel roads, and supporting them by the exaction of toll, was entered upon, and the Legislature enacted a general law, under which companies might be incorporated for their construction. For these highways, a moderately elevated road-bed is constructed, of the proper width and curvature of surface, with easy grades, avoiding as much as possible the climbing of hills, and the track is then surfaced with a layer of coarse, pebbly gravel, several inches in depth. This material packs,under constant use, so as to become very solid and durable, and easily kept in good repair. Of these gravel roads there are now no less than eight leading from this city to distances varying from five to fifteen miles, in as many different directions. They are managed by corporations, with an aggregate capital of about $175,000 invested. They may be regarded as feeders to the main city streets from those surrounding portions of country whither they lead. REEDS LAKE AVENUE COMPANY. Organized August 20, 1873, with a capital stock of $25,000, for the purpose of making a gravel road from the city limits at East street to the junction of two roads on section 29 in the town of Grand Rapids, from which point it divides into two branches, one running on the south side of Reeds Lake about two miles in length, the other leading past the north side of the lake to the town line between Grand Rapids and Cascade, about five miles long, making a total of about eight miles. The incorporators were Erastus Spaulding, President; J. W. Boynton, Vice President; J. Kleinhans, Secretary; Byron G. Stout, Treasurer, and D. W. Kleinhans. The present officers and directors are: Wm. H. Anderson, President; Chas. W. Garfield, Secretary; Joseph Houseman, Treasurer; John Youell and J. Kleinhans. GRAND RAPIDS AND WALKER PLANK ROAD COMPANY. This corporation resulted from a meeting held in the office of Henry Grinnell, July 2, 1877, the following being the organizers: Leonard Covell, President; Henry Grinnell, Secretary; Luther H. Johnson, Treasurer; P. F. Covell, Smith Thorington, A. B. Watson, and J. Wallen. It was organized under the State law, for the purpose of improving and maintaining a toll road from Grand Rapids to the town line between GRAVEL OR TURNPIKE TOLL ROAD COMPANIES. 543 Walker and Alpine on the northwest branch of the road, and to within one mile of the county line on the west branch. The road is about eight miles long, and constructed and graveled under an amendment to the old plank road law. Present officers: Wm. H. Anderson, President; Henry Grinnell, Secretary and Treasurer. Directors-James M. Barnett, S. M. Pearsall, George Kendall, S. L. Fuller, Wm. H. Anderson. Capital stock, $25,000. ALPINE PLANK ROAD COMPANY. Chartered June 7, I879, for the purpose of constructing, owning, using and keeping in repair a gravel or plank road north from North street a distance of five miles to a point near Alpine Station. In August, i881, the road was extended four miles further, to Englishville. The officers at the incorporation were: President, Leonard Covell; Secretary, Henry Grinnell; Treasurer, C. L. Grinnell; Directors, A. B. Watson, L. H. Withey, James M. Barnett, Henry Niehaus. Present Board: Directors, James M. Barnett, L. H. Withey, Aaron B. Hills, Henry Niehaus, Wm. H. Anderson-President, J. M. Barnett; Secretary, C. L. Grinnell; Treasurer, L. H. Withey. Capital stock, $25,000. THE PLAINFIELD AVENUE GRAVEL ROAD COMPANY. Incorporated February, i880, by D. B. Ellsby, Norman Richardson and W. A. Nason, of Plainfield, and W. B. Ledyard, M. L. Sweet and J. M. Barnett, of Grand Rapids-D. B. Ellsby, President; J. M. Barnett, Secretary and Treasurer. It was organized for building and maintaining a gravel road from the north city limits at Plainfield avenue to the bridge crossing Grand River in the town of Plainfield, a distance of nine miles. Present officers: Samuel L. Fuller, President; J. M. Barnett, Secretary and Treasurer. Its cost has been about $I7,00ooo. GRANDVILLE PLANK ROAD COMPANY. Organized August 9, i88I, by Anson N. Norton, Isaac Phelps, Martin L. Sweet, Solomon L. Withey, Peter Davis, John Porter, Edward W. Withey and Noyes L. Avery. Officers: Anson N. Norton, President; Isaac Phelps, Treasurer; Edward W. Withey, Secretary. It was chartered to maintain and operate a gravel road from the south limits of the city on Hall street to the village of Grandville, a distance of about five miles. DIVISION STREET GRAVEL ROAD COMPANY. Organized September 9, I88i, with a capital stock of $20,000, to construct and maintain a gravel road from the south city limits at Hall and South Division street to the town line of Gaines and Byron, a distance of about six miles. The incorporators were: Austin Richardson, President; Charles W. Garfield, Secretary; Joseph Houseman, Treasurer; John W. Pennell, L. S Scranton, 0. H. Simonds, W. R. Cady, A. J. Daniels and W. T. Adams. The present Board of Directors are: N. A. Fletcher, President; Charles W. Garfield, Secretary; Joseph Houseman, Treasurer; Wm. H. Anderson, Superintendent, and W. T. Adams. The road has been extended three and a half miles further south. It is the longest gravel road leading from the city, and has a profitable business. CANAL STREET GRAVEL ROAD COMPANY. Organized June 27, 1883, with the following officers and Board: President, Henry D. Plumb; Secretary, John E. More; Treasurer, John W. Champlin; Directors, Francis Letellier, Henry D. Plumb, John W. Champlin, Nathaniel W. Stowell, C. C. Comstock. The line of the road is properly an extension of Canal street to the village of Plainfield, a distance of about eight miles. The present officers are: President, E. B. Dikeman, Secretary and Treasurer, John E. More. WEST BRIDGE STREET AND ALLENDALE GRAVEL ROAD COMPANY. Organized July, I886 —officers: William Harrison, President; Herman Vedders, Vice President; William Dunham, Treasurer; S. G. Ketcham, Secretary, who, together with Stephen Cool, Wm. H. Anderson and John Delaney, constituted the Board of Directors. The company was organized for the purpose of running a road from the city limits at West Bridge street through the townships of Walker and Allendale to Grand River, a distance of nine miles. The management remains substantially unchanged. CHAPTER XLIX. BRIDGES ACROSS GRAND RIVER. THERE was no bridge for teams across the river here until I845. The bridge most in use when the first settlers came in, was somewhere from fifteen to thirty feet long and very narrow. It was called a canoe. A ferry was soon established, a sort of scow or pole-boat, just below the upper islands, and used as needed, whenever the stage of the water in the river made it practicable. The landing on the east side was at the foot of Ferry street, midway between Pearl and Fulton, and the west landing was nearly opposite that. Several of the pioneers of the west side prior to 1845 kept canoes or small skiffs for their own use, in communication with those of the east side. Usually in the winter season there was good crossing on the ice both above and below the rapids. In I834 heavily loaded teams crossed on the ice at the foot of the rapids till near the end of March. In the spring of I843, as late as April 9, Daniel North crossed on the ice above the rapids with a loaded team. There was a good fording place near the line of Fulton street in times of low water. In the summer season of some years a temporary foot bridge was made use of during the low water stage, constructed by setting up wooden horses, and stringing thereon a narrow walk of plank. These seldom lasted long. Shallow places in the rapids, near Bridge street or below, were usually selected for them In February, 1842, a meeting was held which resulted in the formation of an association to build a free bridge of timber or plank at or within half a mile of the Bridge street line. James Scribner, Lucius Lyon and Daniel Ball were prominent in this movement. Proposals were advertised for, but if any were received it does not appear that the newspaper of that day found it out; but in June of that year a foot bridge was constructed a little below Bridge street, by Lovell Moore and James Scribner. It appears to have been strong enough to with stand moderately high water, and was kept in use two or three years, until the building of a larger and permanent bridge adequate to meet all demands of teaming as well as foot travel. A bridge company was organized, and procured some special State legislation, but did not build a bridge. The first river bridge in this county was built at Ada in I844. Its cost was $I,347.44, an expense that was defrayed by State appropriation, out of the fund for internal improvement. BRIDGE STREET BRIDGE. The first bridge across Grand River in Grand Rapids was that at Bridge street, built in I845, under authority given to the Supervisors of Kent County by act of the Legislature, March 9, I844. The grant was for "a free bridge," with an appropriation therefor as follows: "That six thousand acres of land be, and the same is, hereby appropriated for the purpose of building said bridge. The said Supervisors may select the land and report it to the State Land Commissioner, who shall reserve it for the purpose above stated, and who shall issue certificates therefor * * after the said bridge shall have been completed, provided it is finished within two years, * * and provided the amount of the certificates shall not exceed the cost of the bridge." This was a timber and plank bridge, and was built by Eliphalet H. Turner and James Scribner. David Burnett was the master carpenter. It was set upon eight stone piers, each 36 by 8 feet at the bottom, and five feet thick at the top, with ice-breakers up stream. John Harris was the master mason. The piers were 84 feet apart, with a stretch of over Ioo feet to the east abutment. The superstructure was of the timber-truss pattern most used in those days. There was an enthusiastic celebration upon the laying of the capstone at the west end, when the stone work was I4 - (7L BRIDGE STREET BRIDGE —WILLIAM A. RICHMOND. 545 completed, August 9, I845. Lovell Moore delivered an address in which he congratulated the workmen and citizens upon the success achieved, and the fact that the materials required in building the bridge "were all taken from where Nature placed them, within sight." The water in the river at that time was at a lower stage than it had been for seven years. The bridge was finished November 27. Dr. Francis H. Cuming was the first to drive across it. At the same time the bridge across the canal was finished. It was built by Robert Hilton. Total cost of the two, about $I,000 paid by the county in addition to the 6,000 acres of land appropriated by the State. This bridge lasted only about seven years. The Grand Rapids Bridge Company was organized in January, I852, its charter members being William A. Richmond, Henry R. Williams, William H. Withey, Harvey P. Yale and George Coggeshall, who were authorized to build a new bridge at Bridge street, and to take toll thereon. It was built-a shingle roofed, lattice bridge-by David Burnett, and completed in the fall of I852. Cost-about $9,500. This second bridge was burned April 5, 1858. At that time the Bridge Company consisted of William A. Richmond, President; John W. Peirce, Secretary and Treasurer; George Lovett, James M. Nelson and Abram W. Pike. They proceeded immediately to build another lattice bridge. The contract for this also was let to David Burnett, making it the third bridge erected by him on those piers. It was completed September 4. Until that year the Bridge street bridge was the only one across the river here. Its use was continued, in the ownership of the company as a toll bridge, until 1874, when the city purchased it for $i,ooo, and abolished the toll. This lattice bridge lasted until I884, when it was replaced by the wrought iron bridge now standing, for the building of which the city had contracted in I883. The formal opening of the iron bridge was celebrated July 26, 1884, by a public demonstration thereon in the evening, with speeches, music, and a national salute of thirty-eight guns fired from the middle of the bridge. The structure is 650 feet long and 38 feet wide, resting upon substantial stone piers. The only woodwork is that of the plank roadway and the footwalks on either side. One span of this bridge was 5s built in i88I by the Wrought Iron Bridge Company of Canton, Ohio, at a cost to the city of $I,642.24. The main structure, built by the Morse Bridge Company of Youngstown, Ohio, cost $21,800. Piers and approaches, $II,944.83. East side canal bridge (wrought iron girder pattern), built in 1888 by the Massillon (Ohio) Bridge Company, $7,000. Abutments, $2, 00. Total cost, $44,487.07. WILLIAM ALMY RICHMOND was for more than thirty years prominent in the development and building up of Grand Rapids, and identified not only with local but State history. New York was his native State, the first eighteen years of his life being passed in the village of Aurora, on the banks of Cayuga Lake, where he was born in i808. The Academy furnished the foundation of a good education, supplemented by mercantile experience in Geneseo, Moravia and New York City, and by association with leading men of affairs and prominent politicians. Mr. Richmond was among the hundreds of young men who emigrated to the Territory of Michigan in 1836. Two previous prospecting trips had acquainted him somewhat with the country; the fame of the Grand River Valley was attractive, and he easily decided to locate at the thriving little trading post of Grand Rapids. Bostonians, Vermonters, New Yorkers and Philadelphians had preceded him, making, with the French pioneers, a little community of about two hundred people. Later he was urged by friends to go further west, to a town on Lake Michigan known as Chicago; but a visit to that point failed to convince him of its advantages over Grand Rapids. In 1837 he married a daughter of Deacon Abel Page, a settler from Rutland, Vermont, and from that time during his life Mr. Richmond contributed steadily and influentially to the growth and progress of the place which he had selected for his home. In connection with Judge Carroll, Judge Almy and the Hon. Lucius Lyon, he purchased an interest in the "Kent Plat." He was a one of the first Board of Village Trustees, and Cashier of the first bank at this place. The construction of the first lattice bridge across Grand River was accomplished largely by his efforts, and he was President of the company which owned it; he was one of the projectors of the plank 546 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. road to Kalamazoo —one advance from the corduroy-and afterward of a railroad to the same place. He was also among those enterprising men who rendered hand lanterns unnecessary on the city streets, by the erection of gas works. He was active in advancing the interests of education and religion; contributed largely toward the erection of several churches, and in the effort to establish St. Mark's College, and was for many years a vestryman in St. Mark's (Episcopal) Church. Mr. Richmond was frequently chosen by his townsmen to represent them in governmental affairs. In 1836 he acted as a Delegate from the District comprising the counties of Kent, Ionia and Clinton to the first "Convention of Assent," as it was called, which rejected the conditions proposed by Congress for the admission of Michigan to the Union; and at the sessions of I844 and 1845 he served in the State Legislature. His father having been a promnent Democratic Congressman (from New York), Mr. Richmond came naturally into acquaintance and friendship with General Lewis Cass, Territorial Governor of Michigan, and with Stevens T. Mason, the first State Governor, through whom he received several State appointments. He was one of the Commissioners who located the State Prison at Jackson; was Receiver of the United States Land Office at Ionia; was for several years a most successful Superintendent of Indian Affairs for Michigan and a part of Wisconsin; and was twice commissioned Brigadier General of the State Militia. In the discharge of official duties he made a record for efficiency and faithfulness; and in the relation of citizen his enterprise, public spirit and sound judgment gave him high rank among the pioneers who shaped the character and destiny of the Valley City. Mr. Richmond died in 1870, at the age of sixty-two years. LEONARD STREET BRIDGE. The second bridge for common road use was that at Leonard street, for the building of which a company was organized June 23, I858 —President, J. F. Chubb; Treasurer, George Kendall; Secretary, Wm. A. Tryon. The contract for the piers was let to Peter Roberts, that for the superstructure to Luther Colby. It was completed October 21, and under a charter given by the Supervisors, was a toll bridge. It was 870 feet long, supported by seven stone piers, and landing upon stone abutments. It was of the Burr truss pattern, with a shingled roof. It was purchased by the city in 1873, and made a free bridge. In i880, at a cost of $Io,561.70, a new bridge (lattice) was built, which is still standing. PEARL STREET BRIDGE. The Pearl Street Bridge Company was organized October 15, 1857-President, Solomuon L. Withey;- Secretary and Treasurer, William Hovey; Directors, S. L. Withe-, J. W. Converse, W. D. Foster, Lucius Patterson. In the following year, Charles H. Taylor and Henry Martin were chosen Directors in place of Foster and Patterson. The main part of the bridge was built by J. W. Walton. It was of "double Burr truss" work, 620 feet long, resting upon massive stone abutments, and five stone piers. The mason work was done by John Farr. It was completed for the passage of footmen and teams November 25, i858. The eastern portion of the bridge, from the island across the steamboat channel to the foot of Pearl street (west line of Canal street), was built by Daniel Ball, and this was connected with the main structure by a high embankment across the island. The cost of the entire work was about $6,000ooo. It was maintained as a toll bridge by the company until June, I873, when the city purchased it for $i,ooo and declared it a free bridge. By dint of much repairing, it was made to do service until i886, and then superseded by the present structure, which was placed upon stone piers built by Sekell & Davidson in i885. The superstructure was erected by the Massillon, Ohio, Bridge Company, at a cost of $20,480. Cost of piers, abutments, west-side canal bridge and approaches, $20,830.84. Total cost of bridge, $41,3I0.84. FULTON STREET BRIDGE. The contract for the Fulton street bridge was let in December, 1884. John Olsonwas the contractor for the piers. It is of wrought iron, and high truss in style. It has four spans, each 135 feet in length, set three feet apart, making the total length 549 feet. It is of an estimated average strength sufficient to sustain a load of 27,500 pounds to the lineal foot. The roadway is 24 feet wide, and the lateral braces are at BRIDGES ACROSS GRAND RIVER. 547 an elevation sufficient to allow the passage under them of a load i6 feet high. It has a footwalk six feet wide on each side, with an iron fence or railing. The cost of the bridge, including piers, abutments, approaches, right of way and grading, was $61,251.25. It was constructed by the Massillon (Ohio) Bridge Company. In I886, the Board of Public Works established wharf lines along the river banks, from Sixth to Fulton streets. They were to run from bridge to bridge, touching at the outer ends or angles of the abutments. SIXTIH STREET BRIDGE. The bridge at Sixth and Newberry streets was begun in I885, when the piers and abutments were constructed. These, with approaches, cost $II,084.95. The superstructure is of the wrought iron, high truss pattern, and was erected in I886 by the Massillon Bridge Company, costing $20,281; making the total cost of the bridge $3I,365-95. GRAVEL ROAD BRIDGE. The Canal Street Gravel Road Company bridge is a wood structure, built in 1884, at a cost, including approaches and all needed appurtenances, of $35,000. It crosses Grand River a short distance above the Soldiers' Home, north of the city, near the northwest corner of the township of Grand Rapids. The common bridges in the city across the river, that were then built, all withstood the force of the great freshet of the last week in July, 1883. The railroad bridges did not, having less elevation above the water. THE RAILR(AD BRIDGES. The first bridge of the Detroit, Grand Haven and Milwaukee Railway across Grand River was built of wood in 1857 and I858. It was renewed in wood, in I865 and i866, with seven spans, each Ioo feet in length. In October, 1877, the present bridge, built by the Detroit Bridge Company, of iron plate girders, was constructed at a cost of $40,000. It is near the north line of the city. It has five spans of Ioo feet each, and two of 60 feet each. The work of putting it in place was done in forty-six hours. A portion of it was thrown from the piers in the flood of July, I883, but soon was returned to its foundations. This is a very strong bridge. The Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad has a wood bridge across the river about a mile below the extreme southwestern point of the city. It has a draw for the passage of river boats. It was first built in the early part of I869. The first bridge of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad was a Howe truss, of wood, and was completed in March, i868. In the fall of 1874 it was replaced by another of similar character which cost $I4,441.90. This latter was destroyed by the flood of July, 1883, when a temporary trestle was put across, costing $5,693.68. In January, 1884, the present structure, similar to the old one, but heavier, was erected. Its cost was $I4,729. This bridge crosses the river about forty rods above Fulton street. The Chicago and West Michigan Railway bridge was erected in 1882 at a cost of something over $40,000. A large portion of it was carried away by the freshet in the summer of 1883, but it was soon rebuilt. It is a combination wood and iron Howe truss, and has a draw at the east end for the passage of vessels. It crosses the river diagonally a short distance above Wealthy avenue, close by the lower end of Island No. 3. It has a sidewalk for foot passengers. CHAPTER L. VILLAGE ROADS AND CITY STREETS. The primitive roads of the little village of Grand Rapids were devious, winding ways, and hard roads to travel. At first they were only the Indian trails or foot-paths. A trail from the southeast came in past Reeds Lake, to about where Lake avenue now joins Fulton street, and thence in a zigzag course down to the river near the foot of the rapids. A lighter trail came in at Coldbrook, and along the west base of the bluffs or next the river bank to the lower part of the town. Another came from the southeast, entering about where State street is, and from there pursuing a serpentine course to and around the southern base of Prospect Hill, rounding its angle near the foot of Monroe street, thence circuitously to the fur-trading station at the foot of Huron street. There was also a trail that came up near the river from Grandville, leading to the same point. On the west side were the trails from Grand Haven and Muskegon, and such Indian hunting grounds as lay in that direction, and another from the northward reaching the Indian village here by way of the little valley of Mill Creek. The large Indian village here made of the rapids a central point for the natives of this section, much as our town is to-day for the people who have supplanted them. EARLY WAGON ROADS. Naturally the first wagon roads to the village came in by or near those paths which the Indians had trod, and were correspondingly crooked; and for some years little or nothing was done to straighten and improve them except by private enterprise. The Thornapple road came in by the trail first mentioned to Fulton street and down a ravine toward the junction of Jefferson avenue and State street. The Bostwick Road, as it was called, came in from the direction of Green Lake, its entrance being about where now is the State street line. From the southward the early farmers drove in by way of the present site of the fair ground, and along the edge of the dry land some distance east of Division street. A road from the southern part of the county, or that portion of it west of the Division street line produced southward, joining another that came up the river, formed the one which is still known as the Grandville Road. FIRST VILLAGE ROADS. Within the present limits of the city, during the village days, and even as late as 1850, there were wagon roads winding in in various directions, unfenced, and unworked save by the wear of travel. The most feasible passage from the head of Monroe street to the Bridge street bridge, when that was built, was by a wagon track passing the National Hotel corner, skirting along the eastern slope of Prospect Hill a little west of Ionia street, crossing in a muddy gully the little creek which formerly ran around the north end of that hill, and picking the way carefully over dry spots and past bogs near Kent to Bridge street, thence through a miry slough to the bridge. A similar wagon track ran in a zigzag course near the foot of the hill from Coldbrook to Bridge street. The road toward Plainfield sought the dry places, but did not escape all the muddy ones. Nowhere within the village limits was there a good east and west wagon road. From Fulton street east of the public square was one that climbed the hill in a northeasterly direction through a ravine which reached the summit a little east of where the Central School building now stands, and thence wound its way among the oak grubs back to the Thornapple Road. On the west side were less of ups and downs, but there was plenty of variety in the alternating patches of stony and gravelly and miry grounds, and for VILLAGE ROADS-LAYING OUT STREETS-PLATTING. 549 nearly twenty years the teamster chose his route (inside of what is now the town) over unfenced lands, through bushes and past the bad places, by what appeared to be the most feasible way. This condition of things has long since passed, and it is only by the eye of the mind that one can see and comprehend the great change that has taken place from the ragged, original roads to the handsomely graded streets. LAYING OUT STREETS. Streets there were in Grand Rapids-on paper-almost as early as there were roads, yet they were very little and very imperfectly worked and improved during the first twelve or fifteen years. In the year of the first settlement, I833, Toussaint Campau procured the platting into streets, blocks and lots, of the south half of the northeast fractional quarter of section 25, T. 7 N., R. 12 W. The plat included the portion bounded by a line lying midway between Pearl and Lyon streets on the north, Division street on the east, Fulton street on the south, and the river on the west. Louis Campau, who entered this land, insisted that the main street be laid as near as might be on the Indian trail which came down from the southeast past the foot of Prospect Hill. That is Monroe street. Between that and Fulton street, the streets intersecting Monroe, were laid at right angles with the latter. This accounts for the diagonal street-pattern of that small section of the city. On the other side of Monroe street the cross streets were laid due north and south. On that plat, and within about twenty rods of the present geographical center of the city, was built the pioneer house. In 1835 and 1836 was platted the rest of the territory bounded north by Coldbrook street, east by a line about four rods further east than Ransom street, south by the section line (Wealthy avenue), and west by the river. The streets were laid 66 feet wide-which is about the average width of nearly all the streets in the city-except that Canal street from Pearl to Bridge was laid 100 feet, and north of Bridge 92 feet; East Bridge street to the top of the hill, Ioo feet, and Monroe street one and a quarter chains. THEIR FIRST CONDITION. In the platted portion of the town during the village days comparatively little was done toward permanent improvement of the streets. They were simply made passable as common roads through the districts occupied by residences, with occasional patches of narrow plank sidewalks, and little plank or log bridges across streams and mud-holes; most of the work being done on the country road plan, and many of the citizens personally working out their highway or capitation taxes. Something more was done by private enterprise at places along Monroe, Waterloo and Canal streets, and other points where there were clusters of stores or shops or business houses, whose proprietors indulged in walks made of plank laid lengthwise, from four to six or eight feet wide, in front of their places of business. Yet as late as I845 the roadway of Monroe street, with rather a steep descent from Ottawa down, was, in wet weather, like a bed of brickyard mortar; while Canal street for nearly its whole length was a stretch of black mire of such uncertain depth that only unlucky teamsters often found the bottom. Across that street, about twenty rods north of Lyon, ran a small creek, over which was a narrow plank bridge with log abutments. About 1850 began the era of public, systematic improvement of the streets. FURTHER PLATTINGS. Additional plats were made from time to time, until, in 1853, three years after the city was incorporated, as a city map then made shows, there were within its limits (two miles square) besides those already mentioned, the following: On the East Side-Morrison's Addition, 59 lots, south of Cherry street and east of Jefferson avenue. Smith's Addition, bounded north by Washington street, east by the section quarter line, south by Cherry street, and west by Jefferson avenue. Campau's Second Addition, containing three blocks south of Fulton and east of Lafayette street. Kendall's Addition, bounded north by Bridge street, east by the quarter line, south by Fulton street, and west by a line midway between Barclay and Lafayette streets. Williams' Addition, three lots north of Cherry street and east of College avenue. On the West Side-Scribner's addition, bounded north by Bridge street, east by West Division, south by the center line of section 25, and west by the section line. Coggeshall's 550 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Addition, bounded north by Bridge street, east by Grand River, south by the center line of the section, west by West Division street. Cuming's Addition, north of West Bridge street, between West Division (now Seward) and Stocking. Scribner & Turner's Addition, bounded north by the quarter line of section 24, east by Grand River, south by West Bridge street, and west by West Division (now Seward) street. Smith & Van Allen's addition, bounded north by Eleventh street, east by Grand River, south by Scribner & Turner's addition, and west by West Division (Seward). Richmond's Addition, a strip north of Smith & Van Allen's Addition, running from the river to the line of West Division (Seward) street. Tryon's addition ten lots north of Richmond's Addition, and lying between Front and Broadway. (That Seward street-formerly West Division —line is where the railroad tracks lie, north from West Bridge street.) Plats made since 1853, of which there are upward of I5o, need not be mentioned in detail. Suffice it to say that they are all of record for the examination of those interested, and cover not only nearly the entire nine square miles now within the city, but considerable outlying ground on every side. The more prominent a- retions since those above described have come by the platting of the large Ellsworth, Grant and Campau-farm properties, the "Penney eighty," and others on the south. A large proportion of the others are smaller plats or subdivisions. The suburban plat of Charles C. Comstock, on the north, is a large and valuable tract. GRADING, CUTTING AND FILLING. Turning again to streets-their improvement has involved a vast amount of labor and expense. There are few cities where it has been necessary to do so much cutting and filling as in that part of our own east of the river. In Ottawa, Lyon and Pearl, deep excavations through the solid clay of Prospect Hill have been made, necessitating also the grading down of adjacent property to the extent at some points of nearly forty feet below the former level. In Lyon and Bridge streets excavations through the brow of the sand hill have been about as deep, and all the east-and-west streets rising that hill have cost a great amount of digging. Considerable cutting has also been done on Division street immediately south of Fulton, and again to modify the grade where was formerly a steep clay hill from Cherry street to Goodrich; also in the streets passing through the hills between Almy street and the river, and southward well toward Plaster Creek. On the west side not so much excavating has been necessary except in a comparatively small section near the northwest corner of the city. The amount of filling done has been something enormous. The grade of Canal street at the lower end has been raised nearly fifteen feet, and throughout its entire length an average of not far from four feet; and almost all the low grounds north of East Bridge street have been raised nearly as much by the deposit of earth brought from the adjacent hill. The raising of the grounds on what were formerly the Islands at Pearl street and below, and the filling of the east channel of the river in that vicinity to the present grades, have also furnished places of deposit for a vast amount of earth from the hill excavations, seemingly without much drain upon the sources of supply. A large area in the neighborhood of the Union Depot has been filled from two to eight or ten feet; also a portion of Division street directly east of that station. Most of the street grading on the West Side has been upward instead of downward, and a considerable proportion of the material therefor has been hauled a long distance. The heaviest part of it was in the filling of a large area of low marsh which lay west of Turner and north and south of Bridge street, and of a ravine through which the waters flowed, coming to the river a short distance south of Bridge street. This class of improvements has kept the city busy upward of thirty-five years from their beginning, and the end is not yet. NUMBER AND LENGTH OF STREETS. The streets of Grand Rapids are in general very regularly laid, crossing at right angles, with comparatively few exceptions. A slight fault, apparent to one who looks at a map of them, is in the number of short streets. Leonard, Bridge and Fulton, being on section lines, run entirely across the city from east to west, each two and a half miles long. East street is the only one running straight through from north to south, three and a half miles, and next to that in length STREETS -NUMBER AND LENGTH —NUMBERING-PAVEMENTS. 551 is College avenue. Lafayette street runs from the south line of the city directly through to the D., G. H. & M. Railway, a distance of about two and a half miles. Division street, on the range line, has its north end at Bridge street and is two miles long. Canal street, from Pearl street to the north line. less than two miles long, is straight for a little more than half the way, the upper part being angled to conform to the course of the river. Front street is very nearly straight from the north end to Fulton, two miles, thence for another half mile veers slightly westward. Scribner, Turner and Broadway, with connecting streets southward, afford nearly straight thoroughfares from Fulton street to the north line of the city-two miles. Enumerated by name, the number of streets is (in i888) about 360, and their aggregate length about I44 miles. On January i, I888, there were: MILES. Graded and paved with wood and stone...... 6.114 Graded and paved with wood............... 1.388 Graded and paved with stone........... 1.178 Graded, graveled, and gutters paved........ 43.367 Graded and graveled...................... 32.195 G raded................................. 3 000 Unimproved......................... 55.770 T otal.................................143.012 STREET NUMBERING. The numbering of streets at first was very irregularly done. In the village days it was not attempted. Merchants were content to simply mention the street, and sometimes approximately what part of the street they were on, in their advertisements. To say "near the bookstore," "near the Bridge Street House," "Canal street, near Bronson," "foot. of Monroe street," or to use some similar briefly descriptive phrase, was generally deemed sufficient to convey information as to any particular locality. And this method prevailed, till some time after the incorporation of the city. The names and locations of the more prominent buildings, such as the leading hotels, Backus Block, Commercial Block, Rathbone Block, Irving Hall, Faneuil Hall and others, were quite as well known in all the country about as in the town. Numbering first began to correspond with the numbers of the lots on which the buildings were situated, but this plan was soon found too crude; though as late as the spring of 1865 the Common Council passed a resolution requesting residents to number their places of residence by that rule. But immediately they reconsidered it, and decided to commence the numbering of Canal street at the foot and number northward, to number Pearl and Monroe from the foot eastward, and to number first the business portion of the city in conformity therewith. Later, in I873, a more comprehensive system was adopted, and prevails to this day, so that in general, streets on the east side are numbered from the river eastward, and north and south each way from Fulton street; while on the West Side the numbers run from the river westward, and from West Bridge street north and south. In 1873 $200 was expended for placing signs at street corners, but the absence of those guides at many corners is yet noticeable. PAVEMENTS. The first effort toward anything like paving the streets, was the construction, about 1847, of a piece of macadamized road from Bridge street southward on Canal. A thin layer of sand and gravel was put upon the soft, deep mud, and topdressed with broken limestone. It was a good road bed for a short time, and then began to break through in spots, making it very rough, and dotted with deep mire holes, so that the last end of that venture was worse than the first. The next slight advance was the laying, in 1849, of a plank road up the sandy part of Fulton street hill east of Jefferson avenue. A short stretch of the steep part of Fountain street was also planked. But these were short-lived devices. The construction of the Kalamazoo plank road in I855 made for a few years passably good pavement of oak plank from the south city line on Division street to Monroe. In the following year began street paving in earnest-the first being that of Monroe with cobble stone as far up as Ionia, and this a little later was extended to Division street. In I859 Canal street was similarly paved, as far north as Hastings street. Cobble stone, well laid on a solid, even bed, is a good pavement, indefinitely durable, but very noisy, and hard upon the horses' feet. Not much progress was made in paving during the war period, but in i866 the Monroe street paving was extended to its junction with Fulton 552 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. street, and the latter was paved from that point east over the hill to its junction with Lake avenue, with round stone. About that time also was extended the Canal street paving north, and in i868 it was completed to the D., G. H. & M. Railway Depot. A change from stone to wood pavements was made about I874. The first wood pavement tried was of blocks cut from four-inch pine plank, set on end upon a gravel bed, the interstices between the blocks well tamped with gravel and sand, making a wood 'roadway six inches in depth. Pearl and the lower part of Monroe street were the first to be treated in this way. Soon afterward Canal street was repaved in the same manner. After this, little, if any, stone pavement was laid, except along street borders and gutters. Wood pavements were put in Lyon, West Bridge and some other streets in 1875 and 1876. The pine pavement did not prove very lasting, the wood decaying in five or six years. The next advance was in the use of cedar blocks cut from the bodies of small trees in six inch lengths, the bark and sap-wood trimmed off, and the blocks set on end. These were first used in Pearl street from Canal street to the bridge, and in Monroe street, by way of experiment. The cedar block has proved much the more durable, and is the popular pavement to this day. Among the principal thoroughfares a good portion of which is now paved, are Canal street, Bridge (East and West), Lyon, Pearl, Monroe, Kent, Ottawa, Fulton, Division and Jefferson avenue. STREET SIDEWALKS. Sidewalks in Grand Rapids, with the exception of a few short stretches of stone or cement, are of wood; two-inch pine or hemlock plank, in general, laid crosswise on stringers and well spiked down. They are of widths varying from four to eighteen feet, according to the needs and uses of the streets in which they lie, those in the residence districts averaging six feet. At the start, in the village days, the temporary walks were usually voluntarily laid by those in front of whose premises they were needed. Generally they were only such as were absolutely necessary to keep the feet of pedestrians out of the mud; often not more than two or three feet wide, of planks laid lengthwise rather loosely on sleepers and without much regard to the ups and downs of street grades. But since the incorporation of the city they have been gradually bettered and extended, until they line nearly every inhabited street, and these wooden walks are as good as those of any city, or as can be niade of that material. There are handsome and solid walks of dressed stone in front of the business places on the lower part of Monroe street, and near by on some of the intersecting streets. Very fine walks of this character also surround the Government Block, and three sides of the Citv Hall. The stone for these is brought mostly from other States. The first walk of this kind was laid in Monroe street. Recently, on West Bridge near Turner street, at the corner of Canal and Crescent avenue by the Grinnell Block, in front of Powers' Opera House Block, by the Hermitage Block, at the corner of Bridge and Canal, and at several other points, experiments have been made in putting down walks of artificial stone, or concrete made of cement, sand and gravel. These are moulded in blocks to suit the locality, usually of lengths corresponding with the width of the walk, and six or eight inches in thickness. The mdulding is done on the spot, and when dry and hardened they are apparently as solid as granite rock. This walk is handsome and gives promise of being durable and permanent as stone, judging from the short trial it has had here, of only two or three years. STREET NAMES AND LOCATIONS. Adams-From Madison ave., E. to Higbee ave., S. of limits. Alabama-From 123 W. Bridge, N. to Third. Allen-From II3 S. Front, W. to Winter. Almy-From 98 E. Fulton, S. to Wealthy ave. Alpine ave-From 263 Fifth, N. to city limits. Ann-From Watrous, E. to Plainfield ave., N. of limits. Arianna-From Frederick, E. to West, White's add. Baldwin-From Packard, E. to S. East. Baldwin-From 485 S. Front, W. to Olive. Bank-From 3 Erie, N. to E. Bridge. Barclay-From 271 E. Fulton, N. to E. Bridge. Barnett-From 466 North ave., E. to N. College ave., and from N. Union, E. to Lewis. Bartlett-From the river, E. to S. Division. Bates-From 462 S. Union, E. to S. East. Baxter-From Henry, E. to Dolbee. Beech-From Ella ave., N. to Buckeye, E. of city limits. Beech ave-From 227 Third, N. to Fourth. Benjamin-From 155 Mason, N. to Walbridge. Benson-From 421 Crescent ave., N. to D., G. H. & M. R'y. STREET NAMES AND LOCATIONS. 553 Bissell-From 440 N. College ave., E., north of E. Bridge. Blakely ave-From 346 S. Division, E. to S. Lafayette. Blickin Place-From Second, N. to Third, N. of W. Bridge. Bliven Court-From Second ave., N., W. of S. Division. Blymyer Court-From Stocking, S.W.to Michigan, N. of W. Bridge. Bostwick-From 33 Park, N. to E. Bridge. Bowery-From 29 S. Front, W. to Marion. Bradford-From 226 Coit ave., E. to N. Lafayette. Brainard-From 389 E. Bridge, N. to D., G. H. & M. R'y. Bremen-From Union E. to Benson, N. of E. Bridge. Brenner Court-From 536 N. ave., E. to N. Union. Bridge, E-From the river, E. to Waring. Bridge, W-From the river, W. to Prospect ave. Broadway-From 85 W. Bridge, N. to city limits. Broadway, W-From 222 WV. Bridge, S. to Earle. Buchanan-From i84 Wealthy ave., S. to Hall. Buckeye-From I88 S. Union, to Henry. Buckeye-From 179 S. East, E. to Beech, E. of limits. Butterworth ave-From 391 S. Front, W. to city limits. Calder-From 72 E. Fulton, S. to Cherry. Caledonia-From 284 Taylor, E. to Plainfield ave. California-From 155 W. Division, W. to Indiana. Campau-From 23 E. Fulton, N. to Lyon. Campbell Place-From 408 Lyon, S., N. of Fountain. Canal-From 35 Pearl and i Monroe, N. to Fifth, Comstock's add. Capen-From East, E. to Yuba, Stewart's add. Carpenter-N. from Second ave., W. of Grandville ave. Carrier-From 78 Plainfield ave., E. to N. Union. Carroll-From Cherry, N. to E. Fulton, E. of limits. Cass-From Morrison S. to Fifth ave., and from McDowell S. to Hall. Cedar-From D., G. H. & M. R'y., E. to N. Union. Cemetery-From E. Fulton, N. to Fountain, near limits. Cemter-From Logan, N. to Buckeye, E. of city limits. Center-From Sweet, N. to Fifth, Comstock's add. Center-From 159 Blakely ave., S. to city limits. Charles-From 568 Cherry, S. to Logan. Chatham-From 51 W. Division, W. to Marion. Cherry-From 139 S. Waterloo, E. to Carroll. Chestnut-From 189 Oakland ave., E. to Grandville ave. Chicago-From Hall, S., S. of limits. Christ-From Carrier, N. to Curtis. Chubb —From 28 Earle, S. to Baldwin. Clancy-From 207 E. Bridge, N. to Cedar. Clark-From Highland ave., S. to Hall. Clinton-From II3 E. Bridge, N. to Mason. Coit ave-From 179 E. Bridge, N. to Carrier, and from Plainfield ave. N. to Fifth. Coldbrook-From 516 Canal, E. to Coit ave. Cole-From 25 Marietta, N. to Sweet. Colfax-From 360 Taylor, E. to Coit ave. College ave-From Oakdale ave, S., S. of limits. College ave. N-From 441 E. Fulton, N. to Sweet. 56 College ave. S-From 441 E. Fulton, S. to Prince. Collins Place-From E. Bridge, N. to Hastings. Congress-From Lake ave., N. to Orchard, E. of limits. Cottage Grove ave-From Madison, E. to Kalamazoo, S. of limits. Court-From 36 W. Bridge, S. to W. Fulton. Courtney-From Frederick, E. to West, White's add. Craft-Between Myrtle and Crosby, W. of Alpine ave. Crawford-From Madison ave., E., S. of limits. Crescent ave-From 72 Canal, E. to Grand ave. Crosby-From 575 N. Front, W. to city limits. Curtis-From 582 N. ave., E. to N. Union. D-From 125 Third, N. to Fifth. Davis-From 193 Fourth, N. to North. Dayton-From 291 Straight, W. to city limits. Delony-From I58 Veto, S. to Peaslee. Division, N-From I69 E. Fulton, N. to E. Bridge, and from Mason, N. to Walbridge. Division, S-From I69 E. Fulton, S. to LaBelle. Division, W-From 140 W. Bridge, S. to W. Fulton. Dolbee-From Sherman, N. to Baxter, E. of limits. Dunham-From S. East, E., E. of limits. Dwight-From Lake ave., N. to Orchard, E. of limits. Earl-From Cherry, N. to Lake ave., E. of limits. Earle-From 441 S. Front, W. to Straight. East, N-From 537 E. Bridge, N. East, S-From E. Fulton, S. to Weston ave. Eighth-From 275 N. Front, W. to Broadway, and from Alpine ave. W. to Jennette. Eighth ave-From 304 Buchanan, E. to S. Division. Eleventh-From 385 N. Front, W. to city limits. Eleventh ave-From G. R. & I. R. R., E. to Division. Elizabeth-From 176 W. Leonard, S., and from 14I Crosby, N. to city limits. Ella ave-From S. East, E. to Beech, E. of limits. Ellsworth ave-From 52 E. Fulton, S. to Wealthy ave. Emerald-From Railroad, N. to Capen, Stewart's add. Erie-From the canal, E. to Canal. Erle-From Adams, S. to Western ave., S.of limits. Escott-From Myrtle, N. to the city limits. Everett-From Myrtle, N. to North, Everett add. Evergreen ave-From Union, E. to Kalamazoo, S. to Oakdale ave. Ewing-From Adams, N. to Kalamazoo, S. E. of city limits. Fairbanks-From 280 Canal, E. to North ave. Fernando-From 606 North ave., E. to College ave. Ferry-From 50 Campau, S. E. to E. Fulton. Fifth-From Canal, E. to Coit ave., Comstock's add. Fifth-From 183 N. Front, W. to Stocking. Fifth ave-From 245 Oakland ave., E. to city limits. Finney-From Cherry and S. Waterloo, S. to Wealthy ave. First-From 29 N. Front, W. to Stocking, and from Michigan W. to Pine. First ave-From Hilton, E. to S. Division. Fisher-From Center, E. to Beech, E. of limits. 554 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Flat-From 394 N. College ave., E., North of E. Bridge. Ford-From Brenner Court, N. to Curtis. Forrest-From 133 Page, N. to Madison. Forrest, N-From 249 Quimby, N. to Sweet. Fountain-From 78 Ottawa, E. to city limits. Fourth-From Canal, E. to Coit ave., Comstock's add. Fourth-From 143 N. Front, W. to city limits. Fourth ave-From I6o Oakland ave., E. to S. Division. Frank-From W. Bridge, N., Stone's add. Frank-From 616 Canal, E. to Taylor. Frederick-From W. Leonard, N. to Myrtle, White's add. Fremont-From 351 W. Bridge, N. to Eleventh. Front, N-From I5 W. Bridge, N. to Webster. Front, S-From 15 W. Bridge, S. to Baldwin. Fulton, E-From the river, E. to Carroll. Fulton, W-From the river, W. to Shepard. Garfield ave-From Jackson, N. to W. Bridge, W. of Lincoln Park. Gelock-From Butterworth ave., S. to Earle. Gilbert-From Madison ave., E., S. of limits. Gill-From II3 Legrand, N. to E. Leonard, E. of Canal. Godfrey ave-From S. Waterloo, S. to Hall. Godwin ave-From Oakdale ave., S., S. of limits. Gold-From I90 W. Bridge, S. to Butterworth ave. Goodrich-From the river, E. to Jefferson ave. Grand ave-From 537 E. Fulton, N. to Julia. Grand ave-From 445 Crescent ave, N. to D., G. H. & M. R'y. Grandville ave-From i6i Ellsworth ave. and 0o7 Bartlett, S. W. to Hall. Green-From 708 S. Division, E. to Jefferson ave. Grove-From 238 Taylor, E. to Plainfield ave. Grove Court-From Plainfield ave., E. to Henrietta. Gunnison-From 184 Veto, S. to Butterworth ave. Hall-From Grandville ave., E. to S. East. Hamilton-From 89 Eleventh, N. to city limits. Harlan-From 507 E. Bridge, N. Harlan ave-From 674 Madison ave., E., first N. of Hall. Harvey-From Grand ave., E. to N. East, N. of E. Bridge. Hastings-From i80 Canal, E. to N. College ave. Henrietta-From 51 Page, N. to Madison. Henry-From 534 Cherry, S. to Fifth ave. Higbee ave-From Adams, S. to Weston ave., S. of limits. Highland ave-From 656 Jefferson ave., E. to Oak Hill Cemetery. Hill-From Sweet, N. E., N. of limits. Hilton-From intersection of Prescott and Buchanan, S. W. to city limits. Hilton Place-From 95 E. Bridge, N., E of N. Ionia. Hodgson Place-From S. Lafayette, W., S. of Cherry. Holbrook-From 44 Packard, E. to S. East. Holcomb-From I85 E. Leonard, S., E. of Canal. Hollister-From Buckeye, N. to Cherry, E. of limits. Home-From S. Division, E. to Jefferson ave., S. of limits. Hovey-From 233 Straight, W. to Valley ave. Howard-From 584 Madison ave., E. to S. Union. Howland-From 640 Canal, E. to Taylor. Hubert-From 434 North ave., E. to Lewis. Humbolt-From S. East, E., E. of limits. Huron-From i Mill, E. to Canal. Indiana-From 292 W. Bridge, S. to Butterworth ave. Ionia, N-From 113 E. Fulton, N. E. to Monroe, thence N. to E. Leonard. Ionia, S-From 113 E. Fulton, S. to Tenth ave., and from Eleventh ave., S. to Hall. Irving Place-From 208 S. Lafayette, E. to S. Prospect. Island-From 42 S. Waterloo, E. to Jefferson ave. Ives-From Partition, E. to Waring. Jackson-From 77 W. Division, W. to Richards ave. James-From 500 Cherry, S. to Sherman. Jefferson, N-From 163 W. Bridge and Stocking, N. to Third. Jefferson, S-From 163 W. Bridge S. to Butterworth ave. Jefferson ave-From 256 E. Fulton, S. to Hall. Jennette — From 273 Seventh, N. to Eleventh. John-From 86 Barclay, E. to N. Lafayette. Jones-From 550 Madison ave., E. to S. Union. Julia-From N. Union, E. to Grand ave. Kalamazoo-From Hall, S. E. to Adams, S. E. of limits. Kellogg-From 78 S. Union, E. to Packard. Kennedy-From 406 S. Union, E. to Henry. Kent-From 55 Lyon, N. to Mason. Kent Alley-From Mason, N. to Walbridge, E. of Canal. King Court-From 146 Plainfield ave., E. to Henrietta. LaBelle-From S. Division, E. to Jefferson ave. S. of limits. Lafayette, N-From 321 E. Fulton, N. to Bradford. Lafayette S-From 321 E. Fulton, S. to Hall. Lagrave-From 224 E. Fulton, S. to Blakely ave. Lake-From S. East, E. to Beech, E. of limits. Lake ave-From 501 E. Fulton, S. E. to Carroll. Lane ave., N-From 385 W. Bridge, N. to Fourth. Lane ave., S-From 384 W. Bridge, S. to Sibley. Laurel-From 214 Oakland ave., E. to Grandville ave. Lawn Court-From 426 S. Lafayette, E. to Madison ave. Legrand-From 566 Canal, E. to North ave. Leonard, E-From the river, E. to Waring. Leonard, W-From the river, W. to city limits. Lewis —From 225 Vine, N. to E. Leonard. Lincoln —From 48I W. Bridge, N. to W. Leonard. Linden —From Adams, S. to Weston ave., S. of limits. Livingston-From I43 E. Bridge, N. to Walbridge. Lock —From I5 Lyon, N. to Huron. Logan-From 302 S. Lafayette, E. to Beech. Louis-From the river, S. E. to E. Fulton. Lydia —From 468 N. College ave, E., N. of E. Bridge. Lyon - From the river, E. to N. Union. Lyon Place-From Lyon, S., N. of E. Fulton. McConnell Court —From Center, E. to Jefferson ave., S. of Fifth ave. McConnell —From 28 Buchanan, E. to S. Division. McDowell —From 592 S. Division, E. to S. Lafayette. STREET NAMES AND LOCATIONS. 555 McReynolds-From 237 Fourth, N. to W. Leonard. Madison-From 9go Plainfield ave, E. to N. Union. Madison ave —From 118 Washington, S. to Weston ave Maiden Lane —From Myrtle, N. to North, Everett add. Maple —Fro n i66 S. Division, E. to Jefferson ave. Maple ave-From 183 Third, N. to Fourth. Marietta-From 678 N. ave, E. to N. Union. Marion-From 440 W. Bridge, S. to Sibley. Marshall-From Adams, N. to Hall, S. E. of limits. Mason-From 380 Canal, E. to Reservoir ave., and from 28 Benjamin, E. to Coit ave. Matilda-From 298 Coit ave., E. to North ave. Mechanic-From N. Union, E. to Grand ave. Michigan-From 271 W. Bridge, N. to Fourth. Mill-From 3 Huron, N. to E. Bridge. Miller —From 140 Buchanan, E to S. Ionia. Mills-From 332 Madison ave, E. to S. Union. Monroe-From 35 Pearl and I Canal, S. E. to E. Fulton. Monson —From 312 Center, E. to Jefferson ave. Morris ave-From Cherry, S. to Wealthy ave., E. of Madison ave. Morrison-From i88 Jefferson ave, E. to S. Lafayette. Morse —From Partition, E. to Waring, Stewart's add. Mt. Vernon —From 58 W. Bridge, S. to Butterworth ave. Muskegon —From I67 Fifth, N. to Crosby. Myrtle-From 635 N. Front, W. to city limits. Nagold-From 203 Stocking, W., N. of Fourth. Newberry-From 330 Canal, E. to Coit ave. Ney-From S. Waterloo and Bartlett, S. to Wealthy ave. Ninth-From 309 N. Front, W. to Broadway, and from Muskegon W. to Tamarack. Ninth ave-From I05 Wallen, E. to S. Division. North-From 685 Scribner, W. to Maiden Lane. North ave-From 299 E. Bridge, N. to city limits. Oakdale ave-From Madison ave., E. to Kalamazoo, S. of Adams. Oakes-From 82 S. Waterloo, E. to Jefferson ave. Oakland ave-From 15 Wealthy ave and S. Waterloo, S. to Fifth ave. Observatory-From N. Division, E. to Livingston. Ohio ave —From Adams, N. to Hall, S. E. of limits. Olive-From 60 Earle, S. to Baldwin. Orchard-From Dwight, E. to Congress, E. of limits. Ottawa-From i Calder and 83 E. Fulton, N. E. to Monroe, thence N. to Coldbrook. Packard —From E. Fulton, S. to Cherry. Page-From 118 Plainfield ave., E. to North ave. Palmer-From Watson, E. to Plainfield ave, N. of limits. Paris ave-From Adams, S., S. of limits, and from 440 Cherry, S. to Sherman. Park-Prom 28 N. Division, E. to Ransom. Park Place, E-From 217 E. Fulton, N. to Park. Park Place, W-From I65 Monroe, N. to Park. Pearl-From S. Front, E. to N. Division. Peaslee-From 323 Straight, W. to city limits. Perry-From 73 Page, N. to Quimby. Pettibone-From 3II W. Bridge, N. to Fourth. Phillips-From Hall, S., S. of limits. Pike-From the river, E. to Campau. Pine, N-From 413 W. Bridge, N. to Fourth. Pine, S-From 413 W. Bridge, S. to Sibley. Plainfield ave-From 76 Taylor, N. E., beyond city limits. Pleasant-From 396 S. Division, E. to Madison ave. Powell —From 524 Jefferson ave., E. to S. Lafayette. Powers —From S. East, E. to Kalamazoo, S. E. of limits. Prescott —From I30 Grandville ave, E. to S. Division. Prince —From 498 Madison ave., E. to S. Union. Prospect, N —From 357 E. Fulton, N. to E. Bridge, and from 23i Hastings, N. to Fairbanks. Prospect Place —From 275 E. Bridge, N. to Hastings. Prospect, S —From 357 E. Fulton, S. to Wealthy ave. Prospect ave —From Sibley, N. to W. Bridge, Richards' add. Quarry —From Eleventh, N. to W. Leonard, and from 117 Crosby, N. to city limits. Queen —From 107 Quimby, N. to Sweet. Quimby -From 31I Taylor, E. to N. College ave. Ramona ave —From Kalamazoo, E. to Higbee ave., S. E. of city limits. Randolph —From Hall, S., S. of limits. Ransom-From 235 E. Fulton, N. to E. Bridge. Reed —From I05 Page, N. to Quimby. Reservoir ave-From Mason, N. E. to Livingston, N. of E. Bridge. Richards ave-From Sibley, N. to W. Bridge. Richards' add. River ave-From 220 Butterworth ave., S. Roadhouse-From Sweet, N. E., N. of limits. Rumsey —From 282 Grandville ave, E. to Hilton. Scribner-From 35 W. Bridge, N. to city limits. Second —From Canal, E. to N. Coit ave., Comstock's add. Second-From 65 N. Front, W. to Lincoln. Second ave —From 96 Oakland ave., E. to S. Division. Seventh —From 217 Turner, W. to Walker ave. Seventh ave —From 278 Buchanan, E. to S. Division. Seward-From I39 W. Bridge, N. to Ninth. Seymour-From Adams, S. to Weston ave., S. of limits. Shawmut ave-From I59 S. Front, W. to Indiana. Sheldon-From 196 E. Fulton, S. to Blakely ave. Shepard —From 210 Veto, S. to Butterworth ave. Sherman-From 370 S. Union, E. to city limits. Shirley-From 314 North ave., E. to N. Union. Sibley-From Prospect ave., E. to Valley ave., Richards' add., and from I03 W. Division, W. to Marion. Silver Creek ave.-From Adams, S. to Weston ave., S. E. of limits. Sinclair-From 329 E. Bridge, N. Sixth-From the river, W. to Stocking. Sixth ave.-From 252 Buchanan, E. to S. Division. Spring, N.-From 141 E. Fulton, N E. to Monroe. Spring, S.-From I41 E. Fulton, S. to Wealthy ave. Springfield ave.-From 231 Stocking, W. beyond Fremont. 556 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. State-From i Washington and 60 Jefferson ave., S. E. to Cherry. Stewart-From Partition, E. to Waring, Stewart's add. Stocking-From I63 W. Bridge, N. W. to Seventh. Stoddard ave.-From Sweet, N. E., N. of limits. Stow-From 135 Fremont, W., N. of Fourth. Straight-From 256 W. Bridge, S. beyond Earle. Stuart-From Sweet, N. E., N. of limits. Summer-From 82 W. Bridge, S. to W. Fulton. Sunnyside-From Adams, S. to Weston ave., S. E. of limits. Susan-From S. East, E. to Kalamazoo, S. E. of limits. Sweet-From 402 Taylor, E. to N. Union. Sycamore-From 448 S. Division, E. to S. Lafayette. Tamarack-From Walker avc., N. to Ellsworth, and from 441 W. Leonard, N. to Myrtle. Taylor-From Walbridge, N. to city limits. Tenth-From I29 Alpine ave., W. to Tamarack. Tenth ave.-From I39 Wallin, E. to S. Division. Terrace ave.-From 460 Wealthy ave., S. to Fifth ave. Third-From Canal, E. to N. Coit ave., Comstock's add. Third-From IOI N. Front, W. to Lincoln. Third ave.-From 208 Grandville ave., E. to S. Division. Thomas-From 378 Madison ave., E. to city limits. Tolford-From 40 Butterworth ave., S. to Earle. Trowbridge-From 230 Canal, E. to North ave. Turner-From 6I W. Bridge, N. to city limits. Twelfth-From 227 Muskegon, W. to Tamarack. Twelfth ave-From G. R. & I. R R., E. to S. Division. Union-From Adams, S. to Weston ave., S. of limits. Union, N-From 50I E. Fulton, N. to D., G. H. & M. R'y, and from Shirley, N. to city limits. Union, S-From 50I E. Fulton, S. to Prince. Union Alley-From E. Bridge, N., E. of College ave. Valley-From 69 S. Front, W. to Winter. Valley ave-From Sibley, N. to W. Bridge, Richards' add. Veto-From i8i W. Division, W. to city limits. Vine-From 402 North ave, E. to N. College ave., and from N. Union, E. to Lewis. Walbridge-From 448 Canal, E. to Coit ave. Walker ave-From 311 Seventh, N. W. beyond limits. Wallen-From i55 Ninth ave., S. to city limits. Walnut-From 344 North ave., E. to N. Union Waring-From E. Bridge, N. to E. Leonard, Stewart's add. Warren-From Buckeye, N. to Cherry, E. of limits. Washington-From 60 Jefferson ave., E. to S. College ave. Waterloo, N-From 5 E. Fulton, N. E. to Monroe. Waterloo, S-From 51 E. Fulton, S. W. to city limits. Watrous-From Third, N. to Fourth, Comstock's add. Watson-From 339 S. Front, W. to city limits. Waverly Place-From 24 State, S. to Cherry. Wealthy ave-From the river, E. to Beech. Webster-From 693 N. Front, W. to Elizabeth, and from Powers, W. to city limits. Wenham ave-From 300 S. Division, E. to S. Lafayette. West-From W. Bridge, N., Stone's add., and from Walker ave., N. to city limits. Weston ave-From Madison ave., E. to Kalamazoo, S. of limits. White-From Walker ave., N. to W. Leonard, W. of limits. Widdicomb —From 420 W. Leonard, S. Williams —From the river, E. to S. Division. Winter —From io6 W. Bridge, S. to Watson. Worden-From 468 Madison ave., E. to S. Union. Yuba-From D., G. H. & M. R. R., N. to Capen, Stewart's add. DERIVATION OF STREET NAMES. Names not infrequently are of themselves historic. Many of the street names here may have been given from mere fancy, or for the simple purpose of distinction only. But in many cases they have associations with persons or things or events. In most cases where a street bears the name of an individual it is thus named as a compliment. A peculiarity in the situation of a street may give the name. A number of the streets of Grand Rapids have taken their names from those of prominent streets of other cities. An attempt will here be made to explain the derivation of some of the street names, though comparatively only a few. Adams and Alien - From individuals formerly living near them. Almy-Judge Almy, the early surveyor. Antoine and Louis-Antoine and Louis Campau. Baldwin-S. L. Baldwin. Barclay-Charles Barclay. Bartlett, Bates and Baxter-From early residents bearing those names. Blakely avenue-William I. Blakely, a pioneer. Beech-Some beech trees grew near there. Bostwick-Edmund B. Bostwick, early settler. Bridge-Henry P. Bridge, pioneer. Butterworth avenue-On the road which led to Butterworth's plaster beds. Calder-George P. Calder, an early resident. Campau-The early fur trader. Canal-From its proximity to the east side canal. Carpenter-From the owner of what was called the Carpenter Spring. Carrier-A farmer who once lived there. Cemetery-Fulton Street Cemetery. DERIVATION OF STREET NAMES-CHANGES OF STREET NAMES. 557 Coit avenue-The name of an early land owner. Cherry-Some black cherry trees stood near it. Clancy-John Clancy, an early resident. Chubb-Name of an early resident. Coldbrook-Near the stream of that name. College avenue-Where a college was to be but was not built. Delony —Delony Gunnison. Division-Line between ranges i I and 12. East-East line of city. Escott-Henry Escott, an early druggist. Fairbanks —Name of an early land owner. Ferry-At the early river ferry landing. Finney-A painter and hotel keeper of the early days. Fountain-The head of this street was formerly at Ransom, where there was a fine spring. Front-Next the river front on the West Side. Grandville avenue —The line of the early road leading to Grandville. Gunnison —Lieutenant John W. Gunnison, who lost his life in an Indian massacre in the Rocky Mountains. Hastings —E. P. Hastings, one of the original proprietors of the land there. Hovey-William Hovey, a prominent citizen of the West Side for many years. Island-The street that came down from the east to the river near the islands that are gone. Kent —From the name of the county, originally given in honor of Chancellor Kent of New York. Lock —This street lies where the locks were to be from the east side canal to the river channel below. Lyon-Lucius Lyon, one of the original land owners here. Maple —Takes its name from the woods that were there. Mills-Warren P. Mills, an early settler. Oakes-Charles Oakes, an early settler at Grandville. Ottawa —This Indian name is said to be the Algonquin word for trader. Page-Deacon Abel Page, a pioneer in the nursery business. Peaslee-An early resident who went to California about I850. Pettibone-Takes its name from a surveyor of that name who formerly lived there. Prescott-The Rev. Francis Prescott. Prospect-Runs across the brow of the hill, from which a fine view of the city is obtainable. Reservoir-Lies by the reservoir of the city water works. Rumsey —James A. Rumsey, an early resident on the Grandville Road. Scribner —James Scribner, a settler of I837 on West Bridge street. Shepard-From Dr. Shepard, who purchased the Gunnison property many years ago. Sibley —A pioneer West Side citizen. Spring-Formerly there were a number of springs along by this thoroughfare. State —Lies where the old State Road entered the village. Stocking —Named for Billius Stocking, the first settler in that part of the city. Tamarack-There was once a tamarack swamp close by. Turner-The name of a pioneer West Side family. Waring-The Rev. H. E. Waring, a veteran pioneer. Wealthy avenue-Named by Judge Morrison in compliment to his wife. Wenham avenue-J. C. Wenham, who platted Wenham's Addition. White-Samuel White, who settled at an early day near the northwest corner of the city. Williams-Henry R. Williams was one of the pioneer steamboat men. Many streets of the city are named for the platters of grounds near where they lie, or by them in honor of their children or other relatives. Some of these will be readily recognized. Further specifications are unnecessary. Some changes from early names are mentioned elsewhere, and of some of them it may be said that the new names are no improvement upon the original ones. CHANGES OF STREET NAMES. Following are most of the changes in street names made by the Common Council in the last thirty years: August 25, i860, the four streets, Jefferson, South, Penney and Withey streets, forming one continuous street from Fulton on the north, to the city line on the south, were named Jefferson avenue. January 5, 1865, Court, north of Bridge, 558 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. changed to Lincoln. West Division, north of Bridge, to Seward. May 28, i866, Grove and Rebecca, to continuation of Turner. May I9, i868, Stone, to continuation Fifth. June 27, i868, Louis, between Cherry and State, to Luce. July 12, 1869, Caroline, to continuation of South Lafayette. July 11, I870, Lincoln to Scribner. March i, 1873, Plainfield road to Plainfield avenue. July I2, 1873, East street on Withey's add., to Sycamore; Greenwich, Prairie and Grant streets, to continuation of Ionia; Justice to continuation of Ottawa; East Water to Waterloo; First, Second, Third and Fourth streets, Grant's add., to First, Second, Third and Fourth avenues respectively; Newaygo State road to Walker avenue; Butterworth road to Butterworth avenue; Thornapple road to Lake avenue; William street, Eighth Ward, to Peaslee; New York and Shawmut streets to Shawmut avenues; Fremont to Bowery; Washington, Eighth Ward, to Sibley; Fremont, Eighth Ward, to Watson; Centre, Eighth Ward, to Shepard; Charles, Eighth Ward, to Hovey; Curtis, Eighth Ward, to Chubb; West Water to South Front; Siegel to Jefferson; Ann, Sixth Ward, to Eighth; Elizabeth, Sixth Ward, to Ninth; Caroline, Sixth Ward, to Tenth; Jonathan, Sixth Ward, to Eleventh; Franklin, Sixth Ward, to Twelfth; Pine, Sixth Ward to Tamarack; Union, Sixth Ward, to Cypress; Centre, Fifth Ward, to Cedar; Park, Fifth Ward, to Columbus; Cemetery, Fifth Ward, to Taylor; Coldbrook, Brown & Drew's add., to Vine; Park, Brown & Drew's add., to Walnut; Grand, Eighth Ward, to West Fulton; High, Third Ward, to Charlotte; Official (a short street forming an angling connection between Spring and Monroe streets), to Spring; Canal, south of Pearl, to Monroe. October ii, I873, North Withey to McConnell; McConnell to Third avenue; Mary to continuation of Second avenue; Ellsworth to continuation of Cherry; Elm to Goodrich; Fremont to Fourth avenue; Powell to continuation of South Lafayette; S. Withey to Withey; Ann and Smith to continuation of South Prospect; King, north from Quimby, to Queen; Mason and Fair to Muskegon; Dayton to Pettibone; Bank, West Side, to Michigan; Locust avenue to continuation of Davis; Butterworth avenue, north of Fourth, West Side, to McReynolds. October I2, I874, Charlotte to Madison avenue. July 12, 1875, part of Coldbrook to continuation of Canal. October I5, 1877, Withey and Winsor to Fifth avenue. August 23, i880, Cypress to Alpine avenue. October i, 1883, Tile to Reed. August 17, I885, Bronson to Crescent avenue. May 9, I885, Holland to Irving place. November 23, i885, Summit to Ellsworth avenue. November 29, i886, Antoine to Sixth avenue; Evergreen to Seventh avenue; Cottrell to Eighth avenue; Adams to Ninth avenue; Shelby to Tenth avenue; Putnam to Eleventh avenue; Canton to Twelfth avenue. March I9, I888, Crab Apple Alley to Brenner Court. April I6, i888, Cemetery to North East. Among changes of street names not recorded in the Book of Ordinances are the following: Stoe to Springfield avenue; Van Buren to Seventh; Court to continuation of Bowery; Jackson to Valley; Rose to continuation of Cherry. CHAPTER LI. ENTERTAINMENT. EARLY TAVERNS. IN THE year of the settlement at Grand Rapids, and in the following year, were many comers and goers, chiefly of land lookers and persons seeking for themselves homesteads in the wilderness of the West. There being no hotels, travelers made a tavern of the pioneer house almost before the shingles were on, and even of the pioneer shanty while that house was building. It was simply a private family residence, but became known as Guild's Tavern. The prominent hotels of the early village days were the Eagle, the Grand River Exchange (Bridge Street House), the National (Morton House), and the Mansion House (Rathbun). EAGLE HOTEL. The first hotel was the Eagle, built in 1834 at the corner of Waterloo and Louis streets, where the hotel of that name now stands. It was begun by J. S. Potter and finished by Louis Campau. William H. Godfroy was its first landlord, followed in 1836 by Louis Moran, and Canton Smith in 1838. Others in succession were J. T. Finney in I84I, Heman Leonard and Marston C. Luce about 1843-44, Charles Trompe, and Gideon Surprenant; in I8I49 D. E. Fisher, then Mrs. Fisher, and after her William R. Barnard in I853. In I856, Washington Heath; in I859, J. L. Heath; in I863, George C. Evans, and then till 1871, A. R. Antisdel. For the past sixteen years and more J. K. Johnston has been its landlord. The original story and-a-half wood house was built upon and enlarged until it became a very capacious structure, and it was always a popular hostelry. It was burned February 5, 1883, and the present commodious brick building has taken its place. This was opened November I2, 1883, with a banquet. It is known far and wide as a temperance hotel since Mr. Johnston became proprietor. BRIDGE STREET HOUSE. In 1837 a tavern was built by or for Charles H. Carroll at the corner of Bridge and Kent streets, at first called Kent Hotel, next Grand River Exchange, and about nine years later the name was changed to Bridge Street House. John Thompson was the first landlord; next Solomon Withey; in 1841, Truman H. Lyon; I842-43, William A. Tryon; I845-47, Joshua Boyer; I848, Dan Moore; I849, Milton Hyde. Gottlieb Christ then leased and kept it until February Io, I855, when the old wood building was burned, after which he purchased the property and rebuilt of brick. The new building was opened with a ball, June 12, I857. In 1863, Frank Boxheimer was its manager, and a year or two later purchased the property. In I864 it was kept by Ezra Whitney. After 1865 Boxheimer was landlord until I872, when Bonney & Persons leased and kept the house until the fall of I876. After them came Boxheimer again, who died in I880; and then John Mohrhard. May i, 1883, the property was purchased by E. P. Fuller for $I5,000. Mohrhard was succeeded in 1884 by John B. Brittain, who conducted it until the spring of i888, when Rice & Kelley (Judson E. Rice and John Kelley) became the lessees and landlords. From the first small frame building this hotel has grown to be a large four-story block fronting two busy streets, and it has always been the principal hotel on East Bridge street. The original was a twostory structure about 24 by 40 feet on the ground, sidewise to the street, with a portico and steps along the front, very similar in appearance to many later country taverns. For several years after its erection it was a favorite place for holding elections, both local and general. 560 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. NATIONAL-MORTON HOUSE. In 1835 Hiram Hinsdill erected a building for a hotel on the corner of Monroe and Ionia streets. It was purchased by Myron Hinsdill and by him opened in 1836. It was at first called Hinsdill's Hotel. Three or four years later it was purchased and named "National Hotel" by Canton Smith, who was landlord there until i85o, when he leased it and went to California. Then during three or four years its landlords were Cary & Collins, Granger & Whittemore, Granger & Hall, Granger & Mills, and T. H. Rathbun. After them Smith resumed possession, conducting the house until about I865, when James A. and Israel C. Smith became managing proprietors. September 27, I855,while occupied by Granger & Mills, the original house was burned, but was soon replaced by a new one of wood, four stories high. After I. C. Smith, John T. Barker, Mrs: Barker and Campbell & Beach were landlords, the latter when the building was again burned, September 20, I872. The original hotel was a neat two-story frame, with ball-room on the second floor, and a tasty veranda or portico around the first story on each of the two fronts. Opposite the corner, in the middle of Ionia street, was a well and the "town pump." For more than thirty years the National had been the leading up-town hotel. After the fire of 1872 Israel C. Smith and'George B. Morton became proprietors, and rebuilt upon the site a fine four-story brick block, chang ing the name to Morton House, and renting it to Pantlind & Lyon, afterward Pantlind & Co. (A. V. and J. Boyd Pantlind), who are still (I890) the hotel proprietors. In September, 1884, a half interest in the property was purchased by the Aldrich estate for $50,00ooo. Under its present'ownership the block has been considerably improved, and another story added. Early residents have a grateful and pleasant remembrance of Mrs. Ann Smith, whose maiden name was Angell, wife of Canton Smith, who was landlady of the National Hotel while he was proprietor. She was a most excellent lady, who took a kindly and motherly interest in the care of the sick and suffering, of whom not a few were inmates of that house in those days. She was a hostess of blessed memory. RATHBUN HOUSE. In 1834 Louis Campau built a dwelling house west of Waterloo, adjoining Monroe street. It was his family residence till 1838. Afterward it was leased by the Misses Bayless (sisters of Mrs. George Coggeshall),who kept a boarding house there. A little later it was opened as a hotel-the Mansion House -by James T. Finney, after whom came as landlords, Marston C. Luce and Truman H. Lyon. Then in succession were Charles Rathbun (who changed the name to Rathbun House), Hiram Rathbun, Dorsey & Thornton, De Witt Shoemaker, Julius Granger, W. P. Mills, and Benjamin Smith, prior to i860. From I86I to i866 it was irun by Truman H. Lyon, Jr. In the latter year it was taken by Farnham and Charles D. Lyon, who managed it but a short time, when T. H. Lyon, Jr., resumed possession and retained it until I870. In 1872 it went into the hands of A. R. Antisdel, who remained its landlord until November 12, 1885, when the house was closed, the place having been sold, and the ground became the site of the Widdicomb Block. At first it was a story and a half structure on the corner, fronting Monroe street, about 20 by 30 feet in size, to which wooden additions were made on both streets and on top, until finally it was a four-story building. In 1846 a wing was added on the Waterloo street side, of stone, four stories high in which were placed the dining room, and on the upper floor a hall or ball room. The latter for some years was frequently used for lec CANTON SMITH-SEE PAGE 108. ~~ ---- — j r.t,-...-~11':=:.1_-I~_ ---— 1 "'' ?~ CA P14 562 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. tures, concerts, and as a theater hall by the earliest organized traveling theatrical companies giving regular performances here. The massive building now on that spot, in its strong contrast with the pioneer house and its rough stone cellar, affords a striking illustration of the growth of Grand Rapids in the years from 1834 to i888. Charles Rathbun erected the stone addition above mentioned. He was landlord in person about seven years, from 1844, and owned and leased it afterward until I871. Lansing K. Rathbun, son of Charles, was with his father at the hotel, and about 1851 retired to Paris township, where he has since lived, a successful farmer. MICHIGAN HOUSE. It is not the intention here to give a description in detail of all the numerous hotels or taverns of the earlier days. The four already described are prominent not only on account of priority but of their long life and identification with the history of the city up to the present day. Yet a considerable number of the minor stopping places for the traveler and wayfarer are worthy of mention. A small wooden building on the corner of Waterloo and Louis streets where the Michigan House now stands, was the Michigan House of early days. It was built by Charles Trompe, who opened it in the fall of 1848, and in 1850 was succeeded by John W. Robbins, and after him E. C. Saunders and Ezekiel Welch. In 1854 it was purchased by Jacob Nagele, who has since been its owner, and who built the threestory brick block now on that corner. Frank T. Warrell is the present proprietor. OTHER INNS, EARLY AND LATE. In the village and early city days there were a number of small wooden taverns in and about the business part of the town, doing only a moderate but most of them a living business, in the entertainment of farmers arid their horse and ox teams. One of these was a little building known at different times as the Farmers' Home, the Bender Hotel and the Courtright Tavern, situated a short distance north of Erie street, about where now is the location of 103 Canal street. Its lodging accommodations were meager, but it had a small barn and sheds at the rear, next the canal where teams were fed, and the table was usually sumptuously loaded with plain, good and substantial food, and home-made pastry for hungry customers. Among its landlords were A. Bender, Aaron Courtright, and John M. Balcom. It was destroyed by fire February 27, I857. Another village tavern was located between Waterloo street and the river near Ferry street, called the Exchange. It was used as a public house until about 1859. Asa Pratt was landlord for several years there. Another, a little south of Erie, on Canal street, was called the Franklin House. It was kept in 1859 by P. K. Smith. About 1848, was erected by A. W. Almy, the building since known as the Arnold House, at 86 West Bridge street. He traded it for a farm. It is still a tavern, and among its landlords have been Frank Arnold, John Wallich, Joseph Herrmann, Mary J. Beal, and Frank S. Damskey, the present proprietor. On the west side of the river in 1852, on Court street, a little south of Bridge, was built the American, named later the Planters' House, occupied for some years by Isaac Turner, and still carried on as a hotel. At i64 West Bridge street the Watson House was built in i858 by John Watson. The Barnard House, west side of Waterloo, near Fulton street, was opened in i855 by William R. Barnard. Present proprietor, Stella S. Nellis. The Ohio House at 182 Canal was started as early as i858 by Valentine Richter, and by him conducted during his life, about twenty years. It afterward passed into the hands of Frederick Brogger, who has since been its landlord. The Taylor House at the corner of Coldbrook and Taylor streets, was built about I857 by Charles W. Taylor. It was operated many years as a hotel and boarding house, and then for other business uses. A frame building erected in I836, at the corner of Canal street and Crescent avenue, on the site of the present Grinnell Block, was remodeled in 1854 and converted into a hotel-three stories high, Ioo feet on Canal street and 94 feet deep. It was opened in February, I855, as the Western Hotel, by John W. Squier and Charles P. Babcock, the latter being the landlord. In 1857 Enos Merrill was landlord, and afterward George C. Evans, the name being EARLY AND LATE INNS-LIVERIES. 563 changed to Bronson House. In 1863 it was kept by E. J. Herrick. Afterward it was taken by Aaron Courtright, who managed it until it was reduced to ashes by fire in May, 1871, and the use of that site for hotel purposes ended. There were but few others of this class of public houses here during the thirty years following the settlement. With two or three exceptions, frequent changes of proprietorship form a noticeable feature of their history. The later ones have become so numerous as to almost lose their individuality among the hundreds of business houses in the fast-growing city. Prominent among those of the past twenty-five years is Sweet's Hotel, which was built in i868 and opened by Lawrence & French in 1869. They were succeeded in March, 1870, by T. Hawley Lyon. The block was lifted four feet in 1874 to the grade of the street. Lyon continued landlord of the hotel till 1878, when it was taken by T. F. Pickering, and.he in turn was succeeded in 1882 by N. C. Johnson, still its manager, widely known and popular. The building and property are owned by Martin L. Sweet. A tavern called the Union Hotel was built by William H. Stewart in I860, at the corner of Lyon and Kent streets, which was burned in January, I864. In its place was built the Phoenix Block, with the Commercial Hotel, which was kept up a dozen years. In the wood building Orin Plumley was landlord. In the brick Elliott Covell, W. F. Parrish and others. It is now Livingston's Hotel. The Clarendon Hotel, at the northwest corner of Bridge and Canal streets, was opened as the Rasch Hotel, in 1878. Edward Killean became proprietor in I88o and renamed it. This is a neat four-story brick structure fronting I54 feet on Canal and about 85 feet on Bridge street, roomy, well ventilated and popular. The Sherman House, corner of Leonard street and Plainfield avenue, was from about I864 for upward of twenty years a prominent hotel in that part of the town, kept by Fred. Saunders. It was destroyed about five years ago by fire. The Occidental, later the Parnell House, Patrick Finn, proprietor, has been running some ten years, at 44 Plainfield avenue, by the depot. Among others of recent years, have been the Hotel Weber, 142 Canal, and the Kalamazoo House, corner of Division and Oakes. The Sinclair House, I25 and 127 Canal, has changed landlords several times in fifteen years; J. B. Brittain, present proprietor; is under the management of Mrs. Brittain. There have been, also, several taverns in wood buildings near the Union Depot. The Baldwin House, west side of Plainfield avenue, and south of East Leonard street is a capacious wood structure, which for half a dozen years has had brisk business; Fred. Saunders, proprietor. There are now some forty or more hotels, of all classes in the city. The larger ones, in appearance and furnishing, compare favorable with those of cities having twice the population of Grand Rapids. They have acquired a national reputation for hospitality in entertaining large conventions and great numbers of people. The Morton, Sweet's, Eagle, Bridge Street, Clarendon, Derby, Michigan, and New Rathbun, among leading public hotels, and the Livingston, Brunswick, Vendome, Warwick, Park Place and Irving, of the family hotels, have room and facilities for the care of about 3,000 guests and patrons. Many others are popular with the traveling public. LIVERY. In 1847 Henry Potts kept a few horses for hire, at a little barn just below the Eagle Hotel. To this place he had moved from the north side of Fountain street, near Ottawa, where he began the business some years earlier. His livery outfit was small, cheap and plain, with no costly carriages, but seemed sufficient for the time. In I848 Joseph J. Baxter built a small livery barn just north of the stables of the old National Hotel, where he carried on the livery business during several years. In i850 George C. Evans erected a barn at the northeast corner of Fountain and Ionia streets. It was quite large, and so well stocked with fine horses, and finer carriages than had previously been plenty, that the enterprise seemed to the villagers as a rash and extravagant venture. This building, considerably enlarged, remains there and has been used ever since in the same business. In 1859 W. R. Cady and H. P. Yale were its proprietors, and in I867 and many years thereafter, James M. Kennedy. Its proprietors in I889 were Gill &Greenley. t64 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAIND kAPIDS. In I850 Andrew J. Wheelock had a small livery stable on Ionia street, nearly opposite the site of the Morton House, and during all the years since in that immediate vicinity have been from one to threeilivery, hack or sale stables. Winthrop R. Cady, the pioneer here in hack running, during some thirty years after I85I, conducted a brisk livery business, the greater portion of the time near the junction of Ottawa and Louis streets. He also carried on considerable trade as a dealer in horses. Among others in the livery business between I850 and I870 were E. H. Cady, Duncan Stocking, N. H. Cady, S. S. Ball, Leonard Covell, Rathbun & Moore, A. Gage, Todd & Boorhem, and Watson & Klys. During ten years or more of that period there were two or three stables on the west side of Canal street between Huron and Bridge. Some later livery keepers have been Calvin L. Ives, Kent street, I874; Klys & Shaw, corner of West Bridge and Broadway, I874; George W. Granger, corner of Waterloo and Louis, I874; E. A. & G. S. Ward, Louis street, 1878; John Klys, West Bridge street, 1878. Some of the prominent livery barns and boarding and sale stables in i888, are those of A. N. Albee, 9 Crescent avenue; Gill & Greenley, corner of Fountain and Ionia; C. E. Hodges, 42 Louis; G. V. French, 62 North Ionia; H. N. Pulver, 64 North Ionia; A. M. Rathbun, corner of Wealthy avenue and. Lagrave street; E. M. Vincent, I07 Kent; C. B. Pierce, 89 West Bridge; Owashtanong, corner of Spring and Fulton, J. L. Lee, proprietor. Andrew Tabor has conducted a hack and baggage line several years, at 66 North Iona street. A large proportion of the hack business of the city has been carried on in a smaller way by parties running one or more carriages each. James P. Moran in I850 bought a livery barn very near the spot where was kept the earliest one in the village, which he operated for some years. He is now in the business (I889) at 65 and 67 Kent street. HACK AND OMNIBUS —TRANSFER. Until the advent of railroads the hack and omnibus business as a specialty was very light. The leading hotels upon their own account ran open carriages free to meet the river boats. In I859 Sidney S. Ball, with N. H. Cady, had a hack and omnibus barn at the corner of Waterloo and Louis streets, with a stock of fine covered carriages. Mr. Ball has followed this business for thirty years; after 1864 at 70 North Waterloo street, and since 1884 at 15-17 North Waterloo. Since i88i Charles M. Watters has been associated with him in operating a hack, omnibus and baggage line, and in 1886 they organized the Ball & Watters Transfer Company, of which Watters is President and Ball is Secretary and Treasurer. SIDNEY S. BALL, a stirring, active and busy citizen of Grand Rapids during the past thirty years and more, was born at Rochester, N. Y., October 27, I827. His early educational advantages were meager; but in the common schools he managed to acquire sufficient rudimental culture to serve him in the business transactions of life, and he also had youthful experience at work and learned useful lessons of self-reliance and energetic endeavor. Before coming to Grand Rapids, after coming to the years of manhood, his occupation was chiefly that of railroad and canal contractor. On coming west, he arrived in this city January 2I, I856, and from that time for some four years, followed steamboating, and was then agent for the Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad Company about two and a half years. Meantime, he had begun to make investments in horses and carriages for the accommodation of the public; in I857-58 brought to this town some of the first covered omnibuses that were run here, and since that time has followed the livery, omnibus and hack business continuously and with a marked degree of success. For an omnibus barn he erected the brick building on Waterloo street opposite the Eagle Hotel, afterward for many years occupied for theatrical uses and known as Smith's Opera House. In 1882 he associated with himself Charles M. Watters as a partner, and in i886 they organized the Ball & Watters Transfer Company, and Omnibus, Hack and Baggage line, of which Mr. Ball has been and still is the Secretary and Treasurer. In I885 the establishment was removed to the other side of Waterloo street, just above the Barnard House, its present location. From the first Mr. Ball has done a lively business k L SIDNEY S. BALL-SOCIAL..565 and has probably carried in and through and about the city more people and more baggage than any other person; always equipped with the best of carriages "and of horses adapted to that business. Mr. Ball married, at Rochester, New York, November 9, 1848, Amanda N. Wood, who died in this city July 4, I87I. January 24, 1872, he married Mrs. Susan M. Gray, his present wife, at Grand Rapids. Naturally quiet and unostentatious, Mr. Ball has never sought official position, nor been active in politics. He is essentially a man of business, to which he gives strict personal attention. As a man and citizen he enjoys universal respect, and the public confidence in his trustworthiness. His share of the building up of Grand Rapids to its present stature and robustness is one upon which he may look back with no small degree of pleasure. The artificers of a lively, attracttive town, are the workers, not the drones of the community. SOCIAL. The pioneers of this valley were volunteers in the army of occupation and progress. All men are selfish, in some degree, yet they were as near to being unselfish as in nature man can be. The women and children were packed into the rude wagon, with the ax and the hoe and the hammer, a little bedding, some clothes, a spinning wheel, the tin oven and a few other domestic utensils, and rode joltingly over the rough places, or more slowly through the miry ones; the men and the dog walked, while the patient team drew the load. Many think and speak of the early times as hard times —so they were in some sense; times of hard work, and frequently of sickness and of other hardships not now known. But they were also times of many social pleasures that were enjoyed with great relish, and a measure of cheerfulness and content not exceeded in the present day. They were free from many of the ills and annoyances and fashionable labors that vex modern communities. There were few or no class distinctions. All were neighborly, and they helped one another. They endured much toil and privation; but withal enjoyed many and various ways of rest and relaxation. A social gathering in the roughest of log houses or the plainest of board shanties was a genuine feast of good will and good cheer. The raising, logging, husking, harvesting and quilting bees and the evening frolics and games were alike genuine jollities, giving zest to labor and driving dull care away. What if sometimes they lived on plain and scant fare and dressed in homespun garb? What if they came from various countries and conditions? Here theywere neighbors and friends, ready with a true fellow-feeling to sympathize with each other in all the phases of socialty and open-hearted humanity. And they had numerous resources for amusement and recreation. At first and for many years there was little need of public halls as places for social entertainment. The original cabins, whether made of logs, slabs or boards, and the better though yet cheap and modest residences which succeeded them, in the village and in the country about, were cozy meeting places for little neighborhood parties, and not infrequently for dancing, games, or other social pastimes, were filled to overflowing. Some of the very early houses were of logs, roofed with marsh grass, or straw, or bark, or slabs, or rough boards; had doors on wooden hinges, with wooden latches; windows of but two six-light, seven-by-nine sash, and the glass fastened with little three-cornered bits of tin or with small pegs or tacks; but even in such a building, sixteen by twentytwo feet, before a cheerful, open fire-place, was room for a French four, an eight-hand reel, or half a dozen couples in Money-musk, while as many onlookers sat or stood by the walls. And it is doubtful if the more formal, elaborate, conventional and genteel "receptions" of our modern life are enjoyed with more real, unaffected pleasure than were those plays and "breakdowns" of the early days. A ride out of town six, eight or ten miles, in a lumber wagon rigged with rough board seats, or in winter a sleigh in which the parties were snugly packed, was often a iolly frolic; and if after a "dance all night till broad daylight" the load could be dexterously tipped over, the merriment was only so much the greater. The spirit of play rounded the rough edges of many a hard day's work. When the young man finished his task a little earlier than usual, his face betrayed his anticipation of accompanying his favorite girl in the pleasures of an evening party somewhere in the settlement. It was not all dancing; often some other sport opened the entertainment, and 566 HISTORY iOF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. usually all in the house participated in the amusements —", children of larger growth" as well as the stalwart young men and the blithesome maidens. Few or none were too dignified for that. They had no stock on hand of quadrille bands and string orchestras, but seldom were they without a fiddler — not a "violinist," but an all-alive fiddler, whose head and shoulders and heels would mark time with the cadences of the fiddle and the bow. Sometimes the boys would pay him two shillings each, more or less, according to the number present or the condition of their finances. The fiddler was perched in one corner, perhaps adjacent to the big fire-place, or in the doorway between two rooms, if in a double log house. The entertainment would begin with a march to some such refrain as "We're marching onward to Quebec," the company promenading by couples about the room. Some one would be placed within the circle, whose duty it was to choose a partner from the promenaders. Then there was the forfeit of a kiss and another must take his place. And the play was so timed as to give each a kiss before a change was made in the programme. There was the "grab" play, when at the word each one would grab for some other's partner, sometimes creating much mirthful confusion; or "hurl-burly," in which each would attempt to do something according to instructions that had been given in a whisper, and with collisions or tumbling over each other the scene would be one of "confusion more confounded." Men and matrons of sixty years or over will remember numerous ludicrous incidents connected with those harmless plays which now seem so silly and frivolous. But the winding up, with dancing, as men and maidens of those days did and could dance — even now something more than the mere remembrance of it is demonstrated whenever the Old Residents have a reunion party or picnic. There is probably no keener nor more satisfying enjoyment in the modern promenade, or quadrille, or waltz, than was theirs when Robert Barr called "Down the outside!" in the Opera Reel; when John Bemis prompted, "Swing once and a half round!" and "Forward six! " in the Money-musk, or when Chester Tur ner, or Fidius Stocking, or John Powell, sang out, "All hands round!" or "Grand right and left! " The olden times are gone, but many gray-headed men and women love to look back upon the hours when "Old Zip Coon" or "Molly put the kettle on" gave the key-note and inspiration to their recreations, as among the happiest in their lives. In calicoes and kerseys clad, What cared they for silks and laces? In friendship's ties they all were gladThey had stout hearts and smiling faces. THEATERS-ASSEMBLY HALLS. Some of the early efforts in the way of theatrical playing were made at school exhibitions. About 1838 a term of school in the house on the Baptist mission ground was closed in that manner, and the village youngsters vied with each other in endeavoring to make it as good as a genuine theater. What the play was, is not recorded. They built a platform outside the building for a stage entrance, and with sheets and shawls managed to make a drop curtain for the stage. Probably without suspecting that it was the fashionable way, the actors were slow in the opening, and the boys in the audience began to whistle and stamp and hiss; when John W. Peirce parted the curtains and put his head far enough through to say, "Ladies and gentlemen, please be patient; we will soon begin; we are fixing up a woman;" whereat there was a thundering outburst of applause. The "woman" was Aaron B. Turner, then a slim, beardless boy of sixteen years. He says it was his first and last appearance as an actress or actor "on any stage;" yet he has acted a very creditable part since as a citizen and in public life. The earliest place of regular resort in Grand Rapids for concerts, dancing parties, minstrel shows and other public social gatherings was in the upper part of the building long known as the Old Yellow Warehouse, erected in I834, on the east bank of the river, some four hundred feet below the Eagle Hotel. Following that, within a few years, were popular entertainment rooms in two or three other buildings in that vicinity. The first prestidigitator or sleight of hand performer who came this way gave an exhibition in the Yellow Warehouse, and the building was packed full. In one part of his performance he lifted Warren Mills' hat from his head, and nearly a peck of potatoes rolled over that gentle THEATERS-ASSEMBLY HALLS. 567 man's shoulders to the floor. Then amid the cheering and stamping of feet came a crackling of timbers, and the floor began to settle. This caused a stampede for exit, and those in the audience tumbled over each other in their haste to get down stairs. Fortunately the sills settled but two or three inches and were on solid blocking. No one was seriously hurt. The ball room of the old National Hotel, built in 1836, was a hall of fair dimensions for those days and was much used for a variety of social purposes, including dancing parties, during the next fifteen years. In 1844, the Irving Hall was opened, and became a popular place for public assemblages of various kinds, and as a lecture room. It was also occupied for a time as a lodge room by two or three secret societies. At that time also were built the Commercial Block and the Faneuil Hall Block, each of which had a room large enough for similar uses. That in Commercial Block was afterward fitted up for a Masonic Hall and used as such for a long time. The Odd Fellows and the Good Templars also occupied it. In Faneuil Hall the Mechanics' Mutual Protection held its sessions when organized. In 1849 a three-story wooden building was erected on the east side of Canal street, about midway between Lyon street and Crescent avenue, in which was fitted up a hall about 25 by 80 feet in size. It was christened Sons of Temperance Hall, and afterward called Public Hall. The building was bnrned about ten years later. John W. Peirce, about 1853, built over his store on Canal street, opposite the foot of Crescent avenue, a cosy room, suitable and considerably used for public meetings, lectures, theatrical performances and dancing parties, which he named Concert Hall. Across Erie street on the opposite corner, two years later, was Collins Hall, afterward called Empire Hall, in the fourth story of a large brick block. This was a larger room than any of the kind that had preceded it (40 by 70 feet), and became popular with the public and with traveling theater companies. In the stone part of the old Rathbun House, facing Waterloo street, was a comfortable little hall, much used by lovers of the quadrille, and which was fitted up and used some weeks by the first regularly organized theatrical troupe that came this way-that of Langrishe & Atwater, in September, 1852. There was also a neat little hall in the upper part of the Bridge Street House, much used by the earlier German immigrants for their convivial and musical entertainments. The first hall suitable in size for gatherings of a thousand or more people was in Luce's block, corner of Monroe and Ottawa streets, erected in I856. It was provided with an outfit of movable raised seats; also a stage and theatrical curtains and drops at the further end. Afterward something was added to its capacity by the construction of a gallery around three sides. This was a popular resort for a great variety of public entertainments, where large numbers were in attendance, including political and religious meetings and conventions, public lectures, theatrical performances, bazaars, and balls, for about a quarter of a century. Ransom C. Luce has been a prominently known resident of Grand Rapids fifty years. He is the only surviving son of Marston C. and Rebecca W. Luce. He was born in Genesee county, N. Y., February 28, 1822. The family came here in 1839. In 1846 he began trade as a groceryman in a small wood building on the north side of Monroe nearly opposite Waterloo street, and continued in business there some sixteen years, when, in 1863, he built at that place a threestory brick block. In 1856 he erected the first four-story brick block on Monroe street, at the west corner of Ottawa, ever since known as Luce's Block. Mr. Luce has been an incessantly busy man, financially successful, is counted among the wealthy citizens, and has always exhibited much interest and public spirit in the welfare and growth of the city. He served eleven years as Alderman in the Common Council, and one year as Supervisor of his ward, between 1858 and 1870, and has been a Cemetery Commissioner most of the time for a quarter of a century. He is a citizen whose yes or no is always positive and peremptory-a plain man, who puts on no airs and takes little heed of the changing breezes of fashion, or of self-seeking popularity. On the west side of the river about 1847, the Rev. Joseph Penney caused a building 568 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. to be erected on Bridge street, near the end of the bridge, for lecture-room purposes. It was not very large, but convenient, and used many years, some of the time as a court room. In I853 a house built for a hotel on the west side of Court street, a little south of Bridge, was finished with a commodious hall or ball-room in the upper part. Lincoln Hall, built in I857 by Alfred B. and Selden E. Turner, was in a brick block at the corner of Bridge and Scribner streets. It was 60 by 74 feet, and popular with social parties. It went down in the great fire of 1875 which swept through Bridge street. The upper story of the West Side Union School House (the stone structure built in 1855) was for some years used as an armory hall by the militia men, and a room for public assemblies. A convenient and much used hall, for many years, is on the corner of Canal and Pearl streets in the Lovett Block. Among other halls of the past twenty years have been Leppig Hall, corner of Lyon street and Arcade; Armory Hall, 36' North Ionia; Arbeiter Hall, corner of Jefferson and Chatham. The halls of the Masons and the Odd Fellows in the Tower Clock Block, the Widdicomb Block, and near the foot of Lyon street, are finely finished for their uses. At present nearly every nationality represented in the city has its club building, where the members, their wives, families and friends hold social assemblies. Among these are the club buildings of the Arbeiter Verein, on Jefferson street, costing $2o,000ooo; the Turn Verein, also on Jefferson street, costing $7,00o; the Germania, costing $9,ooo; the Casino, costing $9,ooo; Holland Society's Hall, $6,ooo; Polish, Danish and Scandinavian Halls, costing from $2,500 to $5,ooo. There are also many clubs, organized purely for social purposes, that occupy apartments of no mean or insignificant proportions in public and private blocks of the city. And a large number of public halls in various parts of the city are constructed and well adapted for the presentation of theatricals, operas, concerts, lectures and public entertainments generally. Germania Hall, at 26 North Front street, was opened October 27, 1886, and dedicated with formal ceremonies and a musical concert by the German Benevolent Association, a Mutual Benefit society. It will hold an assembly of about I,ooo people. Metropolitan Hall, built by W. T. Powers, at 57 Pearl street, has been in much request for popular gatherings, and for dancing assemblies. It was opened December 30, i880, the dedicatory performance being a children's dress carnival. HARTMAN S HALL. An assembly room not excelled by any for public entertainment in the State is Hartman's Hall (C. S. Hartman, owner and manager), corner of Ionia and Fountain streets. It was opened December 12, 1887. Its cost, including heating and furnishing, was about $5o,ooo. It is on the ground floor, three-stories high, 88 by 132 feet in dimensions, and has a large gallery. Its regular concert seats number 2,300, besides which it is supplied with chairs to accommodate a convention audience of over 4,000 persons. The platform is without scenery, 25 by 45 feet. The hall is well ventilated, and acoustically its construction is excellent. It has all needed accessories of ante-rooms, ticket-office and check-rooms. In connection with it is a lecture room with a seating capacity of 500 or more, and to this are attached a kitchen and a full set of anterooms. Hartman's Hall is in the building called the Shepard Block, built in the same year, in which are also safe deposit vaults and several stores, offices and other apartments. SQUIER'S OPERA HOUSE. Squier's Opera House was the first regularly appointed theater in Grand Rapids. It stood on the west side of Canal street, midway between Erie and Bridge. It was built in 1859, by John W. Squier, and thereafter, until destroyed by fire in 1872, was almost constantly in use as a theater, and for lectures and public exhibitions. During that time it was the only appropriately seated, furnished and equipped theater, and was a popular place of resort. POWERS' GRAND OPERA HOUSE. Powers' Grand Opera House was built by Wm. T. Powers in 1873, and was opened by McVicker's Theatrical Company May 12, 1874. This was the first fully equipped modern opera house erected in Western Michigan. It is on Pearl street, in the THEATERS-ASSEMBLY HALLS. 569 Arcade Block, a five story brick building which together with the opera house cost upward of $Ioo,ooo. The opera house as originally built consisted of three tiers, the main floor being one story above the ground, and had a seating capacity of about 1,300. In 1884 Mr. Powers enlarged it by dropping the lower floor to the ground and converting the original lower floor into a gallery, thereby making the auditorium to consist of four tiers, which are designated parquette and parquette circle, dress circle, balcony and gallery. Ample ways are furnished for ingress and egress, by a main hall of large proportions on each floor of the building, so that the largest audience can be dispersed in less than five minutes' time. The house at T. H. Redmond, was opened September i8, 1882, by the Madison Square Theater Company. The interior is elaborately and richly finished and furnished. In style and in capacity it is among the first class theaters of the country. It has seatings for about 1,400 people, with entrances and exits sufficient for the rapid clearing of the house in case of emergency. The stage is 34 by 60 feet and thoroughly equipped with all essential appliances. The seats are folding opera chairs of the best styles. There are eleven dressing rooms nicely furnished, the lighting is electric, and the heating is done by steam. It has a stand pipe and hose ready for use in case of fire. Outwardly the building is an imposing structure, 60 feet front, SQUIER'S OPERA HOUSE-BUILT IN I859-BURNED IN 1872. the time the enlargement was made was thoroughly refitted and seated with improved folding chairs, and new scenery, drop curtains and stage paraphernalia were provided, at a cost of about $Io,ooo. It now seats over i,600 people. The auditorium is 61 by 66 feet in size. The stage is 33 by 61 feet, with scene loft 60 feet in height, and is fully equipped with pullies and tackle sufficient to handle any modern drops and special scenery. The house is also provided with a stand pipe and hose connected with the city water pipes for fire protection. It is heated by steam and lighted by both gas and incandescent electric lamps. REDMOND'S GRAND OPERA HOUSE. Redmond's Grand Opera House, built by 58 and about the same height, and its architecture is tasty and attractive. It is situated at 117-121 Canal street. SMITH'S OPER. HOUSE. Wm. B. Smith opened Ball's Adelphia Theater, at 68 Waterloo street, October 25, 1875, and closed it July 17, 1885. That was not a large theater, but had very steady patronage. April 25, 1885, he began excavating at 62 Waterloo street for Smith's Opera House, which was completed and opened September 7, 1885. Its cost was $45,000. The building is 55 by 132 feet on the ground. The lobby and front offices are paved and floored with English tiling, and lighted with electric lights. The theater proper is lighted with gas and seated with 570 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Andrews folding chairs. The entire building is heated by steam. The theater is situated at the street corner and on the ground floor. The stage is 26 by 42 feet, and nicely equipped. On each side are five upholstered private boxes. The flats are 24 by i8 feet. Proscenium arch 32 feet high. It has six commodious dressing rooms and a large orchestra room. Seating capacityparquette and circle 500, balcony 260, gallery 500, private boxes 56; total 1,316. The stage is equipped with all modern improvements and fitted for the production of all classes of theatrical plays. The building is of a pleasing style of architecture, and, though not the largest, this theater is among the handsomest in the country. Science Hall, 59 and 6i Canal street, was erected in 1883 and opened in January, I884. It was at first fitted up as a lecture room and for small assemblies, by an association of Spiritualists. It was then upon the second floor. In I886 it was remodeled by taking out the stores beneath and settling it to the lower floor. The hall was reconstructed and fitted up as a theater, in which shape it had a lively run of business for a year or two, under the name of Wonderland. It has since been rechristened Lyceum Theater. Seating capacity, about 80o. CHAPTER LII. MILITARY —STATE AND LOCAL MILITIA. THE war of the Revolution was half a century, and the second war with Great Britain nearly twenty years, before white men settled in this valley. The only inhabitants then here who could be supposed to have taken part in either of those conflicts were the native Indians, and they on the side of our enemies and mainly under British direction. There was a slight menace of civil war in the dispute with Ohio with reference to the southern boundary of this State, two years after the settlement of Grand Rapids began. But at this distance in the woods that amounted to nothing more serious than a war of words, and those not very acrimonious. The present inhabitants here are not a warlike people to the extent of being aggressive upon slight provocation; nevertheless they are in a true sense a military people, jealous of their own and of their country's rights, alive to every patriotic duty, and ready to take arms if need be in defense and for the maintenance of the honor and integrity of the Nation, and for the preservation of its free institutions. Upon the outbreak of the war with Mexico in 1846, although the army raised for its prosecution was not large, and this place at that time was but a mere hamlet, the martial spirit was aroused, and a considerable number went out from here to join in the conflict; a portion of one company for that service being raised in Grand Rapids. Andrew T. McReynolds, then of Detroit, in I847 recruited Company K of the Third U. S. Dragoons, served with it in Mexico as Captain, winning honorable distinction, and was brevetted Major. Afterward, in the War of the Rebellion, he was Colonel of the First New York (Lincoln) Cavalry, serving three years. He was born in Dungannon, Tyrone County, Ireland, on Christmas Day, in i808. He came to America in 1830, to Detroit in 1833, and to Grand Rapids in I859. He was prominent as an organizer and as an officer in the Territorial and State military affairs; and has served with credit and honor in many important civil positions. He began the practice of law at Detroit in 1840, and that has been his life profession. Since the close of the War for the Union he has been continuously a resident of Grand Rapids; is widely known, and held in high esteem, a venerable citizen now upward of fourscore years of age. EARLY CITIZEN SOLDIERY. After the close of the Mexican war, the chief local incitement to military ardor for some years was in the tenor of news occasionally received from the West, of conflicts with the border savages. Now and then an officer of the United States Army would obtain some enlistments from Grand Rapids and vicinity for frontier service. So the military spirit did not wholly die out, and besides, the people were fully alive to the soundness of the advice given by Washington, to keep ourselves always in a respectable posture for defense. July 12, I855, two local military companies were organized and their officers elected. One was the Grand Rapids Light GuardsW. L. Coffinberry, Captain; F. W.Worden, E. T. Nelson and A. L. Gage, Lieutenants; M. S. Littlefield, B. B. Church, S. S. Porter and G. M. McCray, Sergeants. The other was the Grand Rapids Artillery, a west side company-Lucius Patterson, Captain; Baker Borden, Wm. K. Wheeler and Alfred B. Turner, Lieutenants; Silas Hall, Wilson Jones, Gideon Colton and Johann Dart, Sergeants. The first named of these companies was shortly after reorganized, with Daniel McConnell as Captain, and the name was changed to Valley City Light Guards, and subsequently further shortened to Valley City Guards. In 1856 Mrs. James Lyman 752 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. started a movement to procure a banner for this company, and a beautiful silk ensign was made by the Misses Ferguson, the presentation of which to the company was an event of considerable public interest in those rather unmilitary days. Soon afterward the Ringgold Light Artillery was organized, with Stephen G. Champlin as Captain. About this time, the three companies were mustered into the Fifty-first Regiment Uniformed Michigan Militia, of which Daniel McConnell was Colonel; Orville C. Hartwell, Lieut. Colonel; S. G. Champlin and Ammon Wilson, Majors; Warren P. Mills, Paymaster; D. W. Bliss, Surgeon; Robert M. Collins, Quartermaster; Edward S. Earle, Judge Advocate. These three companies were out on parade for review, January 7, I858. Another company, the Grand Rapids Rifles, composed mostly of German citizens, was organized in I859, and this as well as the Valley City Guards, when the war with the South broke out, went with unbroken ranks into the Union Army. So much for military matters and the martial spirit prevailing in Grand Rapids previous to the coming on of the War of the Rebellion in i86I. The secession at the South and precipitation of the War for the Union was to the people of this valley like a peal of thunder from a clear sky. Almost half a century with no such trouble except the comparatively minor fight with Mexico, had lulled them into a feeling of repose; and, in the enjoyment of peaceful relations with other nations, the coming on of a civil conflict by rebellion at home had been farthest from their thoughts. Thoroughly loyal themselves, they could scarcely believe that any difference in opinion as to State rights or popular rights or civil government in our land would eventuate in a clash of arms through the antagonisms of any portion of the people of our common country. Little attention had been paid to military training. The State Militia was a feeble force of less than 1,500 men and officers, poorly armed and equipped. Yet when the blow came, even that little frame served as a foundation for organization. In the sudden and alarming emergency, there was no hesitation, and the feeling of loyalty was instantly roused to put on inflexible determination. What Grand Rapids and Kent County did in that crisis and in the struggle which followed must be told in another chapter. THE SOLDIERY SINCE THE WAR. When the war with the South was ended it was natural that the fires of patriotism should continue to burn. They could not die out. Nearly every household had in its presence a husband, father, son or brother, or at least some near relative, just returned from the long struggle, worn and weary, broken in health, or perhaps maimed and crippled for life, as a reminder of what this Union of ours had cost. Between their gladness over the return of dear ones, their sadness over the loss of loved ones, and the remembrance of the sacrifices they had made and the suffering they had endured, the hearts of the women of the land were stirred as never before. This intensity of feeling was notably evinced in the manner of their welcome home of the returning heroes; as was indicated in the sumptuous dinner given by the ladies of this city July 4, I865, on which occasion tables were set the entire length of Pearl Street Bridge for the "boys in blue." With less' of demonstrative fervor perhaps, but real and earnest and ardent, that feeling remains to this day. The soldier who enlisted in i86i is now past middle life if living, while the larger proportion of the veterans who survive are in the sere and yellow leaf, and those who have fought their last battle and who sleep their last sleep, are undoubtedly largely in the majority. Scarcely had the returned veterans settled down in their homes before the memories of their camp life and the friendships formed in the service awakened in them a desire to renew in another form the comradeships of the war. From this grew their meetings by companies and regiments, the formation of civil organizations and their annual or frequent reunions. The Twenty-first Infantry met and formed a reunion organization December 31, i866. Nearly every year since has witnessed an assemblage of this character, of some remnant of the Union Army, at which the boys shake hands anew, relate their experiences and "fight their battles o'er again" in song and story and speech. The Second Michigan Cavalry had a reunion January 6, 1870, at Sweet's Hotel, at which a reception was given to General Sheridan. At the same meeting an associ THE SOLDIERY SINCE THE WAR. 573 ation was formed, of which Gen. P. H. Sheridan was made President. Other Grand Rapids officers were-L. S. Scranton, Vice President; Edwin Hoyt, Jr., Corresponding Secretary; J. M. Weatherwax, Treasurer. February 23, 1871, the "Old Third" Michigan Infantry organized an association — President, E. S. Pierce; Secretary, J. H. Sumner; Treasurer, George E. Judd. January 24, 1872, a few of the surviving veterans of Co. K, Lincoln Cavalry, had a pleasant reunion meeting and supper, at which they were addressed by their former Colonel, A. T. McReynolds. One of the toasts was the following: "The Lincoln Cavalry —the first in the service and the last out of the service." The "Old Third" Association held its second annual reunion December 14, 1872, and elected Captain Frederick Shriver, President. The First Michigan Infantry Association held its second annual reunion in Grand Rapids, August 28, 1873, at which time only seven of its veterans were residents of this city. September 8, I873, the Grand Rapids Guards were called out and ordered to Muskegon, under command of I. C. Smith, to guard the jail at that place, a riot being deemed imminent; a commission which they executed with alacrity and fidelity. September I9, 1873, the veterans of the Third Michigan Cavalry held a reunion and organized an association at the Council Rooms in this city —President, Capt. D. M. Caldwell of Whitmore Lake. March 23, 1874, the Guards were ordered to Greenville, to report to the Sheriff of Montcalm county, for the purpose of preserving the peace at Gowen, where there was some trouble among the Flat River log drivers. Fortunately their services were not needed, but the boys gallantly "marched up the hill and then marched down again." At the fourth reunion of the "Old Third" Veterans, held at Sweet's Hotel, December II, 1874, there was a very large attendance, filling the halls. Gen. B. R. Pierce was elected President. They had a fine festival, including banquet and ball. Other reunions of this veteran association have been held: December 13, I876, at Sweet's Hotel; December 13, 1877, at Muskegon; December 13, 1878, at Sweet's Hotel; December 12, 1879, at the Morton House; December 13, I88I, at Big Rapids; December 13, 1882, at the Armory, with supper at the Eagle Hotel; December 13, 1883, at the Eagle Hotel; in 1884, at Lansing; September I7, 1885, at Science Hall, 59-61 Canal Street. September 15, I6 and 17, 1885, occurred the reunion of the Society of the Army of the Cumberland in this city, filling the town with veterans from all parts of the country. On the same occasion besides that of the "Old Third," were held here reunions of Mexican War Veterans, the Sons of Veterans, Eighth Michigan Cavalry, the Second Michigan Cavalry, the Fourteenth Infantry, Twenty-first Infantry and the First Michigan Engineers and Mechanics. At that time the Soldiers' Monument at the head of Monroe street was unveiled and dedicated. With street processions, parades and military maneuvers on the fair grounds, the presence of distinguished military guests from abroad, the speeches and banqueting and social meetings, this was the most notable celebration of a semi-military character held here since the war. In 1876, beginning August 7, the Second Regiment of State Troops held its annual encampment for drill and instruction at Reeds Lake-Camp Custer. On the ninth their exercises were enlivened by a sham battle. In 1877, beginning July 25, they had another practice upon the same ground, lasting five days. Col. I. C. Smith was in command on both occasions, and the troops were visited by thousands from the city and about. The encampment of the regiment was again held there with target practice in I879, beginning August I4 and holding five days. The Department of Michigan of the Grand Army of the Republic had its annual meeting here January 13, i880, at which eight Posts were represented and Andrew T. McReynolds was elected Department Commander. November 23, I880, the Grand Rapids Guard at its armory was presented with a beautifully mounted and elaborately wrought silk banner. The embroidery was the work of Mrs. Anna Thompson and Mrs. E. J. Kromer. A supper and ball rounded out the festivities of the occasion. In I88i Co. B, under Capt. H. W. Calkins, went with the Michigan Battalion, under Gen. I. C. Smith, and attended the Centennial Celebration, October I9, at Yorktown, of the surrender by Lord Cornwallis to General Washington. July 4, 1882, there was 574 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. a drill and sham battle upon the fair grounds by the Militia, in which several companies from abroad participated. April 8, i886, a Western Michigan Association of Veteran Soldiers and Sailors was organized at a meeting held in the Morton House, starting with 117 members. President, Wm. P. Innes; Vice President, George N. Davis; Secretary, H. D. C. Van Asmus; Treasurer, Loomis K. Bishop. THE STATE TROOPS. The roster of commissioned officers of the Michigan State Troops shows (summer, i888) the following of Grand Rapids: E. Crofton Fox, Colonel and President State Military Board. Of the First BrigadeIsrael C. Smith, Brigadier General; Charles W. Calkins, Lt. Col. and Assistant Adjutant General; Joseph C. Herkner, Lt. Col. and Assistant Inspector General; Eugene W. Jones, Captain and Aid-de-Camp. Of the Second Regiment, in which are the Grand Rapids Companies - William T. McGurrin, Lt. Col.; Charles H. Rose, Major; William F. Hake, Surgeon. GRAND RAPIDS COMPANIES. Company B (Grand Rapids Guards), mustered in November 26, i872-Captain William S. Kinney; First Lt., Jacob Schrouder; Second Lt., John D. Kromer. This company was originally formed March 7, 1871, the leaders of the movement being George E. Judd, its first Captain, and General I. C. Smith. Its muster roll then showed fifty-nine members, among whom were many war veterans. It dates its regular organization from June 27, 1872- Captain, H. N. Moore; First Lieut., George E. Judd — with fifty-eight names on its roll. The Valley City Guard, which went to the front at the outbreak of the Rebellion, did not reorganize after the war. The Guards have a fine armory, and are proficient in drill and discipline. Company I (Custer Guards) mustered in June 27, 882-Capt., James S. Knox; First Lt., Arthur W. Seymour; Second Lt., Edward C. Bennett. This company was organized Feb. 22, 1882. Its first Captain was Charles H. Rose, who held the position till he was promoted to be Major in I888. At Muskegonj July 4, i886, the Custer Guard took first prize in a drill, against four competing companies; and took third prize in a competitive drill at Jackson in September of that year. Company K (Innes Rifles) mustered into State service December i6, 1884. Captain, Dennis L. Rogers; First Lt., John Scott; Second Lt., Thomas S. Crump. This Company was first organized as a battery, and went into the State service as the Valley City Light Artillery, with Henry A. Hydorn as Captain, but subsequently reorganized with change of name, and was mustered in anew. OFHER MILITARY ORGANIZATIONS. The Valley City Zouaves was a military company organized in 1866, and again March 14, 1873-Captain at latter date, Emil A. Dapper; First Lt., Peter W. Runions. The National Guard was a company organized in December, 1877, with James J. Walters as Captain. It kept up its regular meetings and drills with considerable enthusiasm for several years. In i880 George M. Bennett was Captain. It had also a civil organization, of which James E. McBride was President. The Sheridan Rifles were organized in June, I886-Captain, Frank Conlon; First Lt., James Whalen; Second Lt., Daniel G. Kinney-the same officers yet in command (September, I888). The company has a muster roll of ninety men. CHAPTEkR LIII. GRAND RAPIDS AND KENT COUNTY IN THE WAR FOR THE UNION. THE attack by the rebels of the Confederate States upon Fort Sumter, April 12, i86i, the fall of that fortress, and the proclamation, April i5, of President Lincoln, calling for 75,000 men for three months' service in behalf of the Union, roused the military ardor of our people to the highest pitch of enthusiasm. The response was prompt, and the rush to arms instantaneous. A war meeting was held at Luce's Hall, April 15, 186i, which was addressed by Col. A. T. McReynolds and others. The. hall was filled to overflowing, and a spirit of intense patriotism was manifested. The pervading sentiment was to the effect that the Union must be preserved at all hazards and that the people of this counmy and valley would come to the front to a man, if need be, armed and equipped, for the support of the National Government. A second Union meeting was held on the 22d of April, which was marked by still greater intensity of feeling, and the determination to put forth every possible effort in the loyal cause. The ladies of Grand Rapids caught the patriotic fervor, and held a meeting, April 23, in Mills & Clancy's Hall, Mrs. S. S. N. Greely presiding, and Mrs. S. L. Withey acting as secretary, at which they resolved: "That the ladies of the Valley City are not unmindful of the perils which threaten our country, and they appreciate the patriotism which impels their fathers, husbands, brothers and sons to take the field in defense of the Flag of our Union." April 20, the officers of the enlisted military companies of the city held a meeting at the armory of the Valley City Guards. Brig. Gen. Wm. A. Richmond presided, and Harvey J. Hollister was Secretary, and then and there was reported the organization of a regiment for the war. This was the Third Michigan Infantry. Here it may be remarked that on the i6th of April a State military meeting had been held in Detroit, at which it was estimated that $ioo,ooo would be needed immediately, to meet the exigency of the occasion, though the President had only called upon Michigan for one Regiment of Infantry, armed, clothed and equipped. The State finances at this time being at a low ebb, it was determined at once to make an effort to raise the amount by subscription, trusting to the State for reimbursement, a confidence which afterward proved to be well founded. At that meeting $23,000 was subscribed, and in less than two months the amount reached $8i,020. Ransom C. Luce of Grand Rapids subscribed $ioo for this fund. FILLING A REGIMENT. The Third Regiment (Infantry) was encamped on the fair grounds, just south of the city-"Cantonment Anderson." It was mustered May 21 into the State service, and June Io into the service of the United States. The Valley City Guards tendered their ser-. vices, were accepted, and formed a company in that regiment. The roster of the Guards was as follows: Captain, Samuel A Judd; First Lieutenant, Frederick Shriver; Second Lieutenant, Charles D. Lyon; Third Lieutenant, John Dennis; Orderly Sergeant, Edward S. Earle; Second Sergeant, George E. Judd; Third Sergeant, James Cavanaugh; Fourth Sergeant, Edward Hunt; Fifth Sergeant, Thomas Greenly; First Corporal, Miles Adams; Second Corporal, A. C. McKenzie; Third Corporal Joseph Herkner: Fourth Corporal, Charles H. Cary. PRIVATES. Bogardus, Peter A. Buck, Henry O. Budington, E. D. Burns, J. G. Calkins, C. A. Chamberlain, W. Chase, L. H. Colby, H. P. Crittendon, Israel C. Ferris, Wm. P. Goodrich, E. C. Hinsdill, Chester B. Johnson, Harley M. Johnson, Richard. Jones, Wm. Judd, Elliott E. Littlefield, Daniel. Lovell, Don J. 576 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. Luce, H. C. Powers, Daniel H. Lytle, E. Pullen, Wm. McCrath, John W. Rose, Charles H. Mann, John M. Smith, Ray V. Marsh, J. G. Taggert, C. M. Miller, Orson. Teenstra, T. Moon, Emery. Tracy, B. C. Nairr, George. Truax, John K. Pierce, Edward S. Williams, Henry F. "'THE BOYS ARE MARCHING." Cantonment Anderson was a veritable bee-hive of busy preparation during the month of May. From all the country about came in the volunteers, and scores of enlistments were added daily, until the regiment started for the field June 13, with its ranks swollen to I,040 men. On the fourth of June, a delegation of thirty-four young ladies, representing the States of the Union, visited the camp, bearing a beautiful silk banner, on which was the inscription in letters of gold: "Presented by the ladies of Grand Rapids, to the Third Michigan Infantry." This banner was fashioned and wrought by Miss Mattie Ferguson, and she did not live to see it again; though it came back after less than two years of service in the field, begrimed and tattered and torn, riddled with bullets, and its folds baptized in blood, but unstained by a single act of dishonor on the part of that gallant body of patriots. It was a notable day in Grand Rapids when these soldiers started out to take part in what proved to be the most sanguinary struggle of the Nation. There was a general suspension of business in the city, as the regiment marched in solid ranks through the streets to the railway station, receiving from the thousands as they passed a benediction of mingled pride and cheers and tears, and prayers for the success of the noble cause for which they had volunteered. No such pageant had ever before been seen here, though similar scenes were destined to become familiar before the trouble ended. There was no abatement of this patriotic ardor, and determination to defend the Union cause, and support the arm of the Government. On the contrary it grew stronger and more intense as the conflict deepened. In response to the succeeding calls of the President in that year, for 500,ooo men, here as well as elsewhere volunteers came rushing in for enlistment. In the language of the soldier boys of those days "the woods were full" of patriots. The pervading feeling and the strong beat ing of the public pulse were well indicated in the poetic response of Halmer H. Emmons, at a war-meeting held in Detroit in July, 1862, to the call of the President for 300,000 additional troops: If you look up all our valleys, where the growing harvests shine, You may see our sturdy farmer-boys fast forming into line; And children from their mothers' knees are pulling at the weeds, And learning how to reap and sow, against their country's needs; And a farewell group stands weeping at every cottage doorWe are coming, Father Abraham, three hundred thousand more! You have called us and we're coming, by Richmond's bloody tide To lay us down, for freedom's sake, our brothers' bones beside; Or from foul treason's savage grasp to wrench the murderous blade, And in the face of foreign foes its fragments to parade. Six hundred thousand loyal men and true have gone beforeWe are coming, Father Abraham-three hundred thousand more! PATRIOTIC BOYS. Even the youth caught the ardor of loyalty, patriotism, and military enthusiasm, and in May, i86I, while the "Old Third" was filling its ranks, the boys organized a military company which they called the Cadets, but soon changed its name to the Grand Rapids Greys. After a few months' of drill, many of the officers and members of this company, enlisted in the regular service, but the organization was kept up at home until near the close of the war. The following is the- roster of the "Greys" as first organized: Captain, J. C. Herkner; First Lieut., H. N. Moore; Second Lieut., W. H. Martin. First Serg., D. H. Powers; Second, G. Stevenson; Third, Frank Lyon; Fourth, Silas Pierce. Corporals-C. F. Kendall, C. H. Deane, F. Reynolds, T. Mitchell. Privates-J. Mann, S. W. Baxter, H. H. Chipman. M. M. Moore, C. T. Stoner, G. C. Pierce, E. D. Harvey, Fred B. Perkins, C. B. Carpenter, O. Budington, M. G. Huntly, J. D. Utley, W. L. Wilbur, F. R. Rose, C. W. Calkins, F. Burr, A. D. Rathbone, W. D. Smith, Wm. S. Hovey, A. F. Armstrong, Albert Henry, Levi Chase, L. H. Rindge, Ed. Ringuette, John Stewart, Porter Sinclair, John Burr, Tileston A. Comstock, D. C. Southwick,o,Salem Chapin, E. E. Winsor, Wm. H. McNeil, J. Coats. 'HE SERVICE IN THE FIELD. Kent county sent 4,214 men to the war. SERVICE IN THE FIELD-FIRST INFANTRY —THIRD INFANTRY. 577 Of the regiments raised in this State, the Second, Third, Sixth, Seventh and Tenth Cavalry were rendezvoused while forming, and mustered in, at Grand Rapids. Also the Third Infantry and the Third Infantry reorganized were mustered here. Of other regiments, any considerable portion of which was made up from Kent county, were the First Cavalry, mustered at Detroit; the First Engineers and Mechanics, mustered at Marshall; the Eighth Infantry, mustered at Detroit; the Fourteenth Infantry, mustered at Ypsilanti, and the Twenty-first Infantry, mustered at Ionia. The Fifth, Thirteenth, Ffteenth, Sixteenth, Twenty- fifth and Twenty-sixth Infantry, and the Fourth Cavalry, had each some representatives from this part of the State. Companies B, C, and K of the First Light Artillery, and the Thirteenth Battery, also went from Grand Rapids. There were also volunteers from this county among the U. S. Sharpshooters and the First Michigan Colored Infantry. It may safely be said that no troops in the Union did more gallant service, or made a better record than those who went from this Valley. Of those of the above organizations which drew most largely from this city and valley, upward of 3,500 men were killed in action or died of wounds or disease while in the service-"fell under the flag in defense of the Union." There is no record to show the exact number of those who were citizens of Grand Rapids. Some soldiers from this section served in organizations of other States, but this number as compared with the whole number is inconsiderable; a few, also, were in the Regular Army. The sketches of regiments, batteries and other commands here appended are necessarily brief; and only those are included in which Kent county had a considerable representation. Nor does the proper award of praise for gallant services and noble deeds to the Boys in Blue from our own midst imply the withholding of just acknowledgment of the courage and bravery of their foes in the rebel army; for, however mistaken were the latter in their cause, and even in some instances atrociously inhuman, their valor is indisputable. Only the leading names of field and staff officers, as a rule, are given in these outlines; but in another place are presented in brief the military records of all commissioned officers of this city and county. 59 FIRST INFANTRY. This regiment was raised for three months, and afterward reorganized for three years' service; was then mustered at Ann Arbor, with a strength of 960 officers and men, and left the State September i6, i86I, in command of Col. John C. Robinson, then a captain in the U. S. Army. Lieut. Col., Horace S. Roberts, Detroit; Major, Franklin W. Whittlesey, Ann Arbor. The reorganized regiment was officered principally by men who had served in the three months regiment. On its arrival at Washington it was reviewed by President Lincoln in person. It led the advance into Virginia, in the spring of 1862, under Col. Roberts, seccessor to Col. Robinson, who had resigned. During that year it participated in eight engagements, losing its Colonel, 88 men and ten officers. A considerable number of its officers and men were from Kent County. It performed well its part during the war, and was mustered out at Jackson, July I2, 1865,having lost in the line of duty, 243 men. THIRD INFANTRY. The "Old Third," under command of Col. Daniel McConnell, who had for some time held a commission as a Colonel in the Uniformed Michigan Militia, was mustered in at Grand Rapids June io, and left the State for the Potomac, June 13, 186 — Lieut. Col., Ambrose A. Stevens; Major, Stephen G. Champlin; Surgeon, D.Willard Bliss; Asst. Surgeon, Zenas E. Bliss; Quartermaster and Commissary, Robert M. Collins. This regiment was attached to Richardson's Brigade, and in five days after leaving Grand Rapids was in the action at Blackburn's Ford. It afterward belonged to Berry's celebrated brigade, of Kearney's Division. Col. McConnell having resigned, it went into the campaign of 1862 under the command of Col. S. G. Champlin. It fought at Williamsburg May 5, at Fair Oaks May 30, at Charles City Cross Roads June 30, and on July i at Malvern Hill. At Fair Oaks its losses were severe —3o killed, 124 wounded and I5 missing, including among the killed Capt. Samuel A. Judd, and among the wounded Col. Champlin. The Third was also engaged at the second battle of Bull Run, losing heavily, and at Chantilly. After the disablement of Col. Champlin, the regiment was under command of Col. Byron 578 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. R. Pierce, until his promotion to the office of Brigadier General. Under his command it was engaged at Chancellorsville, and afterward at Gettysburg. In all the annals of war, never was bestowed higher praise upon any body of men, than upon the gallant "Old Third" of Michigan. A correspondent of the New York Tribune, writing June 4, I862, in relation to Michigan troops at Fair Oaks, said: They fired away every one of their sixty cartridges to a man, and then gathered everywhere the unconsumed cartridges from the boxes of the dead and wounded, and economically used them. A North Carolina regiment, sent against the Third Michigan, had its front file wholly knocked down by a volley. The next file turned to run. A line of bayonets depressed behind them held them fast. " Charge!" ordered the Michigan Colonel. Over the rail fence leaped our men, with a yell that ever smites terror. Their bayonet points were not waited for. The Carolinians broke and ran. After Gettysburg in 1863, the Third was engaged at Wapping Heights, then in August proceeded to Alexandria, and thence to New York, to aid in preserving the public peace during the then pending draft, and later to Troy, N. Y., where it was stationed two weeks. Returning to the Army of the Potomac in September, it took part in the advance on Mine Run in November, engaged in several skirmishes, and finally encamped at Brandy Station on the 2d of December. Near the end of this month, 207 of the regiment re-enlisted as veteran volunteers. It afterward took part in the Battle of the Wilderness and engagements at various points in Virginia in May, and at Cold Harbor June 7, I864. About this time four companies of this regiment were merged in the Fifth Infantry, and served with it until the close of the war. The "Old Third" having been mustered out of service at Detroit, on the twentieth of June, 1864, orders were issued to reorganize the regiment, which was completed in the following October, under Lieut.-Col. M. B. Houghton, to whom that duty was assigned, with 800 officers and men on the rolls of the new organization. October 20, under Houghton's command, the regiment proceeded to Nashville, thence to Decatur, Alabama. Between that time and the close of the war it was engaged at many points in the South; moving in the latter part of 1865 into Western Texas, where it was engaged for a time on provost guard duty. Early in the spring of I866, the regiment was ordered to Victoria, Texas, where it was mustered out of service May 26, and started for Michigan. Arriving at Detroit June io, the men were there paid off and disbanded. The enrollment of this regiment was i,o09, its losses were I58, of whom two died of wounds, and 156 of disease, a heavy loss considering the time of service, owing largely to severe marching under a hot sun and in an unhealthy country. ISRAEL CANTON SMITH, from his connection with the army during the late war, and with the Michigan State troops since that time, and his extensive business relations, enjoys a wide acquaintance among the citizens of this State. His father, Canton Smith, and his mother, Ann Angell, were married in Scituate, R. I., their native town. They were of Quaker descent. Moving to Michigan in 1837, they settled at Grand Rapids, where the subject of this sketch was born March 12, I839. His early education was received in the public and private schools of Grand Rapids, and two years at Albion College. His business career began with lumbering on the Muskegon River, where his father owned a mill; and after a brief experience in the same business in Chicago, and a year's absence in the South he returned to Grand Rapids, and entered the law office of James Miller. Pursuing his legal studies for about twelve months he was seized with an attack of the then raging gold fever, and in 1859 joined a party starting for Pike's Peak, but which finally decided to go through to California from Fort Kearney. After many hardships and several narrow escapes from hostile Indians, they arrived at their destination I 14 days from the time of leaving the Missouri River. Following a brief but comprehensive California experience, young Smith returned home by the way of the Isthmus of Panama, and soon afterward went to St. Louis, Missouri, where he engaged as clerk on a steamboat running on the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. He returned to Grand Rapids in I860, and again entered the officeof James Miller, to complete his law studies. When the war broke out, he gave up the law and enlisted as a private soldier in Company E of the Old Third Regiment, Michigan Infantry. Before the regiment left the State, he was 1 ' Al -? - - K-~ I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~N K~~~~~~~~-;Ri \r BIOGRAPHY OF GEN. ISRAEL C. SMITH. 579 promoted to Second Lieutenant, and in July, i86I, on the first Bull Run battlefield, was again promoted to First Lieutenant and Adjutant. January I, 1862, he was offered the position of Aid-de-Camp on General I. B. Richardson's staff, which he declined, to accept a Captaincy in his own Regiment, Company F. He was at the siege of Yorktown, served through the Peninsular Campaign, and was mentioned in general orders by General Phil. Kearney for gallantry at the Battle of Fair Oaks. At the second battle of Bull Run Captain Smith was with his Regiment, the grand "Old Third," in the thickest of the fight. At an important crisis of the battle, while advancing under a heavy fire from the front and both flanks, the right of the regiment broke. Captain Smith, whose company was near the left of the line, taking in the critical situation, sprang to the front, ordered and led a charge that drove the rebel line from its position, and when forced by numbers to fall back, his men kept up a bold resistance, firing in retreat. While leading the charge Captain Smith was wounded twice, back of the shoulder, and still carries one of the balls as a memento of the occasion. He was on the staff of General Berry at the Battle of Fredericksburg, and was soon after appointed by General Daniel E. Sickles, commanding the Third Corps, Assistant Inspector General and assigned to the Third Brigade, First Division, Third Army Corps. At the Battle of Chancellorsville, where he was on the staff of General Heyman, who commanded the Brigade, he was assigned to the right of the line in the famous "Night Charge" when Stonewall Jackson was killed. During the battle on the second day the right of the line broke. Captain Smith gave his horse the spurs and dashed away at full speed to rally the regiment, when a cannon ball tore off the top of the horse's neck just in front of the saddle. It was a close call, but, instantly dismounting, he rallied the regiment back to its line. The army fell back to Chancellorsville House, where the rebels, after killing the horses of one of the Union batteries, drove the cannoneers from the guns and advanced to take the battery. Captain Smith called for volunteers, charged down the plank road and dragged the guns within the Union lines. At the Battle of Gettysburg, General De Trobriand commanded the Brigade. After the troops were placed in position it was found that the line was not connected on the left. Captain Smith found some troops and got them into position to fill the gap just as Longstreet's column charged. The rebels were repulsed, but advanced again, and a regiment stationed at a point on the line at the right of the wheat field broke badly. Captain Smith rode in among them and rallied the men back to their original position. But here his horse was shot and he received a wound in his right leg, fracturing the bone just below the knee. The ball still remains in the leg. Captain Smith was mentioned in the reports for gallantry at this battle. The following is an extract from General De Trobriand's book, "Four Years in the Army of the Potomac:" His horse turned on his hind legs as if ready to fall. A ball had passed through the shoulder of the animal and the leg of the rider. The latter turning toward me, showed me on the front of his boot a round hole, from which the blood was flowing freely. "Go to the ambulance as quickly as possible," I told him, "your horse is still able to take you there." Captain Smith saluted me with perfect coolness, expressed to me the regret he felt in not being able to be of further service to me, and went off without hurrying. On account of his wounds he was granted leave to return home, where he had been but a short time and was still on crutches, when, in August, 1863, he was promoted Major of the Tenth Regiment Michigan Volunteer Cavalry, and ordered to take command of the camp at Grand Rapids. In the fall the regiment was ordered to Kentucky and joined the Army of the Ohio; thence into East Tennessee, where Major Smith was kept busy for a time leading the advances made by the infantry corps in making reconnoisances toward the Virginia line. In April, 1864, the regiment attacked the fort at Watauga Bridge. After a sharp fight, the fort was carried. Major Smith led the charge and was the first man inside of the works, and as he went over the parapet the rebels rushed out on the opposite side. He charged the rebel General John Morgan at Morristown. In this fight Morgan.was discovered with his cavalry drawn up in line in front of the town. The Union column halted. The commanding officer rode back to the rear, where Major Smith was marching with his battalion, and explained to him the situation, Smith asked him why he did 580 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. not order a charge. The reply was: "Do you want to charge him?" Smith said, "Yes," and instantly moved out, galloped past the other two battalions, came into line on the jump, charged and drove Morgan from the field. He was soon after appointed Acting Assistant Inspector General for the District of East Tennessee, serving in that position in the Departments of the Ohio, Cumberland, Twenty-Third Army Corps and Cavalry Corps; and on the staff of the following named officers: General Davis Tillson, General Alvin C. Gillem, General Jacob Ammon, and General George Stoneman. While a member of General Gillem's staff, and the cavalry division were driving Morgan's cavalry back to the Virginia line, General Tillson, learning of the approach, of General Wheeler's rebel cavalry division, who were trying to find a ford to cross the Holston River, dispatched a locomotive to Bull's Gap for Major Smith, with orders for him to come to Knoxville. Taking command of what cavalry could be mustered, about one hundred men, he moved out with instructions to observe the movements of the rebels and ascertain if possible their numbers and objective point. Nine miles from Knoxville his command received a terrific volley from a rebel regiment in ambush. He instantly charged and broke through the rebel line, and in a chase of three miles captured about sixty of their number. In the midst of the exciting pursuit Major Smith noticed some rebel artillerymen running up a couple of guns directly in his front, not over a hundred yards distant; a cavalry regiment behind the artillery; another cavalry regiment coming up through the woods on his right, and still another on his left, and at once discovered that he had charged right into the heart of General Wheeler's camp, and was nearly surrounded by some 5,000 rebels, who had crossed the river during the night. Making the best of a very desperate situation, he ordered his command to fall back. The rebels rushed him for five miles, repeatedly defeating his attempts to check them. Major Smith came out of the fight with only eighteen men of the original one hundred, and the rebels recaptured the prisoners; but he had accomplished his mission and obtained the information wanted by the commanding general. Soon after Major Smith was appointed Lieutenant-Colonel of his regiment. In November, 1864, General Gillem was hard pressed by the rebel General John C. Breckinridge at Bull's Gap, and had asked by courier for re-enforcements and ammunition. Colonel Smith,with about four hundred men and one piece of artillery on a flat car, was ordered to take ammunition through from Knoxville to Bull's Gap, and render General Gillem what assistance he could. He left Knoxville about dark, his train backing up, which brought the flat car with the piece of artillery in front. On reaching Morristown, where he made a halt, he saw a number of stragglers coming from the direction of Bull's Gap. This was about midnight. The moon shone bright and clear, making it quite light. Soon General Gillem's forces were discovered making for the rear in a demoralized condition, singly and in squads, having been broken to pieces by Breckinridge's command of rebel cavalry. Colonel Smith put his troops upon the train and fell back one mile west of Morristown, where he placed them in position; one flank resting on a swamp, the other protected by Gillem's cavalry, the troops forming in eschellon behind rail fences, the car with the gun in the center of the line. The railroad and wagon road ran side by side, as they do most of the way from Knoxville to the Virginia line. Colonel Smith's plan was to check the rebels and give Gillem's artillery and train time to get to the rear. About I2:30 o'clock the rebels were heard coming through the town, noisy and jubilant over their success, and advancing rapidly. When the head of the column came to within a few paces of Colonel Smith's position, he halted the advance and asked, "Who comes there?" The answer was, "Rebs." Colonel Smith gave the order to fire. The artillery poured in its canister and the troops opened a fire which was most destructive. Riderless horses were flying in every direction, and the rebel column broke and fled back through town. At the same time the engineer on the train became frightened and started for the rear, carrying off the piece of artillery, and leaving Colonel Smith with his command dismounted, forty miles outside the Union outposts, without any support, and his left flank unprotected (General Gilman's troops breaking and making for the rear at the first fire), and with Breckinridge in his front with thirty-five hundred men. It was not a desirable situation; but BIOGRAPHY OF GEN. ISRAEL C. SMITH. to give jillem's battery and train still further time, he held to his position. The rebels came through the town, where Colonel Smith could dimly see the lines forming, and heard General Breckinridge give the order to move "forward." He waited until they came within close range, when he opened fire and checked them, but only for a moment. When he saw that he could hold the position no longer, he sent for Colonel Kirk, whom he had posted on the left of the road, to jo n him with his forces, and then began to fall back, but before that officer had time to form a junction with his (Smith's) troops, the rebel cavalry charged down the road and cut him off. Colonel Smith here whirled and gave them a volley, and then moved into the dark woods. The rebels were attracted by General Gillem's artillery and train, and thinking that they had Colonel Smith and his command sure, moved down the road with the main column; he was thus enabled to keep out of their reach, and traveled through woods and fields until daylight, keeping his direction by the noise the rebels made in the road. At daylight he moved farther back and traveled until seven o'clock that evening, when he arrived at Strawberry Plains, forty miles by rail from Morristown, having halted but twice, once for three minutes, and at another time for five minutes, in eighteen hours' march. As he came up to Strawberry Plains, he was obliged to strike the river below the bridge and move up under its banks, as the rebels were placing pickets along in front of the bridge to cover all the approaches. Colonel Smith had an important position with nearly every Union expedition that was undertaken in East Tennessee in I864 and 1865, and during that time had many skirmishes and minor actions with the rebel cavalry. During the winter of i864 and 1865 General George Stoneman was assigned to the Department of the Cumberland, and Colonel Smith was appointed Assistant InspectorGeneral on his staff. In the great raid in the spring of I865, General Stoneman, in command of five thousand cavalry and a light battery, moved over the mountains into North Carolina, thence over the mountains back again into Virginia, constantly skirmishing with the enemy and destroying many miles of railroad. Moving back again into North Carolina, General Stoneman came in front of Salisbury, N. C., where a rebel prison was located. Here he was met by a strong body of the enemy posted behind a deep and muddy stream. The rebels drove back our advance, having taken up the planks of the bridge and posted several batteries on the other side of the stream. General Stoneman ordered Colonel Smith to take two squadrons, go down through the woods, dismount, cross the stream and charge the batteries. After much difficulty, he succeeded in getting his men across on logs, and formed them in open order in the woods, ordering them, when they saw him jump the fence, all to do likewise, fire their carbines, and yell as loudly as possible, at the same time making a rush for the batteries. As the troops charged through the fields, the rebels, thinking that the whole of Stoneman's force had crossed the stream and were on their flank, limbered up their guns and rushed to the rear. By the time Colonel Smith reached the road, the Union troops had replaced the planks on the bridge and commenced moving across with the cavalry. Mounting a soldier's horse, he took command of what troops had crossed and charged down the road. The rebels had again formed in a piece of woods, and allowed him to come up within short range of the guns, when they opened fire from twelve pieces of artillery. Colonel Smith's horse was shot from under him, he himself receiving a scratch on the hand from the sharp point of an exploding shell, and his forces were driven back; but he soon had a fresh command, charged the rebels again, driving them through the town, in the face of a raking fire delivered from cross streets, alleys and houses. Colonel Smith led the troops, charging through the town, and on reaching the far side he captured the first piece of artillery and the battery flag, which was afterward presented to him by General Stoneman. Subsequently all the artillery was captured (sixteen pieces) and nearly two thousand prisoners. The next day he was given command of two regiments, with orders to drive back a body of cavalry that was advancing from the east, and destroy a railroad bridge. Returning the same night, he was ordered to take the advance of Stoneman's column and clear the road between Salisbury and Statesville, which was infested by rebel cavalry. The column moved just after dark. Colonel Smith started with four 582 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. squadrons at a gallop, and in the fifteen miles to Statesville his command was fired upon five different times by strong forces posted in the road; but his own men never fired a shot, only yelled and charged the enemy; thus clearing the road each time without giving the rebels time to destroy the bridges. Arriving at Statesville, he found there was a rebel column at the far side of the town, occupying about two-thirds of it, but he held the balance with his small force until the arrival of General Stoneman's column, about two o'clock in the morning. The column re-crossed the mountains into East Tennessee near Asheville, where Colonel Smith led a charge and captured a rebel battery, which was the last of his engagements during the war. He was again assigned to General Gillem's staff, and stationed at Chattanooga. He was made Colonel of his regiment, and soon after, at his own request, was relieved from staff duty and moved his command to Memphis, where he remained until November, 1865. He was then ordered to take his regiment to Michigan, where it was mustered out of service. Colonel Smith was commissioned Brevet Brigadier-General to date from March 13, 1865. Besides his other duties in East Tennessee, General Smith while on staff duty inspected each month from one to three cavalry regiments, three infantry regiments, two heavy artillery regiments, nine light batteries, the forts and fortifications of Knoxville, and occasionally the troops and works at Cumberland Gap and other points occupied by Union troops. Having enlisted as a private, he passed successively through every grade from Second Lieutenant to Colonel of cavalry and Brevet Brigadier-General, and participated in nearly all of the battles of the Army of the Potomac, from first Bull Run to Gettysburg, and the cavalry engagements in East Tennessee in 1864 and I865. General Smith's high standing with the general officers under whom he served, is best attested to by the many responsible positions to which he was assigned by orders, such as the following: By Major-General Daniel E. Sickles, commanding the Third Corps, Army of the Potomac, acting Assistant InspectorGeneral Third Brigade, First Division, Third Army Corps; by Major-General John M. Scofield, commanding Department of the Ohio, acting Assistant Inspector-Gen eral Second Brigade, Fourth Division, Twenty-third Army Corps; by General Scofield, member of a Board to examine candidates for commissions in the First United States (colored) Heavy Artillery Regiment; by General Scofield, member of a Board to examine certain officers cited before it by General Jacob Ammon as to their fitness to hold their commands; by General Davis Tillson, to convey inside of the rebel lines by flag of truce a number of prisoners and important dispatches; by General Scofield, one of three commissioners to proceed with flag of truce to the rebel lines and confer with commissioners appointed by the rebel General, John Morgan, with reference to an exchange of non-combatants of East Tennessee, held as prisoners by the United States Government and by the Rebel Government; by General Tillson, to proceed to the Irish Bottoms, East Tennessee, where a brigade was stationed on the Little Pigeon River, and direct its operations; by General Tillson, assigned to duty as acting Assistant Inspector-General of the District of East Tennessee, Fourth Division, Twenty-third Army Corps; by General Alvin C. Gillem, acting Assistant Inspector-General, Cavalry Division, Twenty-third Army Corps; by General George Stoneman, acting Inspector-General, First Cavalry Division, Department of the Cumberland. The following very complimentary quotation is from a letter to the Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.: Headquarters Fourth Division Department of the Cumberland, Greenville, East Tennessee, April 28, 1865. General:-I have the honor to recommend that Lieutenant-Colonel I. C. Smith, Tenth Michigan Cavalry, be appointed Colonel of the First U. S. C. Artillery, Heavy. Lieutenant-Colonel Smith has served under my command, or immediate observation, for the past eighteen months. His conspicuous courage, capacity and gallantry have madre him the object of admiration of the entire command. He has upon his person several scars from wounds received in battle, in which he has repeatedly exhibited the most distinguished bravery and fortitude. I know of no officer of his rank possessing a more brilliant and deserving record in the entire army. The undersigned raised and organized the First U. S. C. Artillery, Heavy, and feels warmly interested in its reputation and success, and feels quite sure that in neither of these respects will the regiment be inferior to any in the service, should Colonel Smith be made its Commander. Hoping that my application may meet with your approval, I am respectfully your obedient servant, DAVIS TILLSON, Brigadier-General. The recommendation was endorsed as follows: GEN. ISRAEL C. SMITH-FIFTH INFANTRY. 583.KNOXVILLE, Tenn., May i, 1865. Respectfully forwarded with the remark, that the recommendation and statements of General Tillson are fully endorsed. It gives the undersigned pleasure to have the opportunity of testifying to the merits of Colonel Smith, which are unsurpassed by any officer of my acquaintance. I hope this application will be granted. GEORGE STONEMAN, Major-General. These two officers were graduates of West Point. General Stoneman complimented him on his coolness in action, and that his command were never demoralized. Parson Brownlow, Provisional Governor of Tennessee, in recognition of General Smith's gallantry as a soldier and hard rider, presented him with a bronze statuette of a thoroughbred horse, and the General was appointed Second Lieutenant in the Eighth United States Cavalry, but decided to return to the walks of civil life. After being mustered out of the service, he assumed the management of the National Hotel, which stood where now stands the Morton House, in Grand Rapids. He married, in 1867, Ada Elizabeth Meeker, born in New York City, daughter of William D. and Abbie R. Meeker, and grand-daughter of the late Judge Edward Mundy, who was distinguished as Lieutenant-Governor, AttorneyGeneral and Judge on the Supreme Bench of Michigan. General Smith removed to Kansas City in 1867 and opened a hotel, the Pacific House, of which he was the proprietor for three years. In I870 he engaged in cattle raising and mining, making his headquarters at Denver, with one cattle ranch in Colorado and one in New Mexico. During his residence in Denver, he commanded a "crack" military company, the Governor's Guards. His only child, Morton Fitz Smith, was born in that city. In 1878 he returned to Grand Rapids, and in company with George B. Morton bought the old National Hotel property and erected the Morton House. In I875, the city having been visited by several destructive fires, General Smith was appointed Fire Marshal. In 1876 he was appointed agent for the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad and Star Union Line. In 1878 after he had reorganized the Fire Department, and established its present high standard for efficiency, he resigned his position with the Department. In i88i the Legislature passed a bill placing the Police and Fire Departments of Grand Rapids in the hands of five commissioners, General Smith being one of the five original members mentioned in the act. He was also at that time CaptainGeneral of the Commandery of Knights Templar, DeMolai No. 5. In i882 he resigned his position with the railroad company, the Captain-Generalcy of the Commandery and his position as Police and Fire Commissioner, to accept the general management of the Barnhart Lumber Company, operating at Duluth. In June, 1887, he was appointed Superintendent of Police by the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners, and in a short time placed the Department in an advanced position for discipline and general efficiency. He resigned the position in February, 1889, to accept that of general manager of the Converse Manufacturing Company, controlled by James W. Converse, of Boston. In 1874 General Smith accepted the Captaincy of the Grand Rapids Guard, and when the companies were organized into Regiments, he was appointed Colonel of the Second Regiment. In 1884 he was appointed Brigadier-General of the Michigan State troops and held the command until his term expired, January i, 1889, having served in the State troops for fifteen consecutive years. General Smith is a member of St. Mark's Episcopal Church, of Custer Post G. A. R., and of the Michigan Commandery of the Loyal Legion, of which he was elected Vice Commander in 1889, and Commander in 1890. In March, 1890, he was appointed by the Governor of the State one of the Board of Managers of the Soldiers' Home. The following is from the pen of one who has been intimately connected with General Smith in business, military and social circles for many years, and is therefore valuable testimony to the General's worth as a citizen and soldier: His physical appearance is that of a born soldier, erect, active and dignified. He has been a citizen of Grand Rapids from boyhood and has contributed his full share toward the growth and development of the city. Both in public and private life, his course has been such as to commend him to the confidence and esteem of his fellow-citizens. He has established a repute for business and personal integrity that gives him a foremost place among the representative men of Grand Rapids, where he has come to be regarded as an upright, enterprising, honored and respected citizen, whose merit and worth entitle him to the enjoyment of the honorable position accorded him by his fellows. 584 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. FIFTH INFANTRY. The Fifth was organized at Fort Wayne, and mustered into service at Detroit, August 28, I861, with an enrollment of 900. Colonel, Henry D. Terry; Lieutenant Colonel, Samuel E. Beach; Major, John D. Fairbanks. This regiment took park in battles at Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, Malvern Hill, Chantilly, Fredericksburg, and many other places, acquitting itself handsomely. It continued in active service until the close of the war, and was mustered out July 8, i865. Not many of its men were from Grand Rapids, though ioo or more were from Kent county. Its ranks were considerably swollen toward the close of the war by consolidation with it of fragments of other regiments, so that during its service it had in all an enrollment of 1,950 officers and men. Its losses under fire and by disease footed up 398. EIGHTH INFANTRY. The Eighth Infantry had its first rendezvous at Grand Rapids, and its companies were officered largely from this county. It was mustered in at Detroit, Sept. 21, i86i, and left the State on the 27th of that month. Colonel, Wm. M. Fenton; Lieutenant Colonel, Frank Graves; Major, Amasa B. Watson. October I9 it embarked as a part of the "Expeditionary Corps" under Gen. Sherman. for Hilton Head. During the time from its arrival there to the close of 1862, it had a dozen engagements with the enemy, at as many points in the States of South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, and Maryland. Its assault upon the enemy's works at Secessionville, on James Island, June I6, i862, was one of the most daring and gallant during the war. The regiment here suffered severely in the loss of men, and among the killed were Captains Benjamin B. Church of Grand Rapids, and Samuel C. Guild of Flint. In I863 the regiment was transferred to East Tennessee, where it took part in several movements and battles. Again it returned to the Army of the Potomac, and in May, 1864, participated in the Battle of the Wilderness, where was killed Col. Graves, who was then its commanding officer. Col. Ralph Ely succeeded to the command, and the regiment, until the close of the war, continued to do gallant service, participating in many sanguinary battles. It was mustered out near Washington, July 30, I865, and on August 3 was disbanded at Detroit. It had borne on its rolls 1,792 men, and had lost 403 by the casualties of war. THIRTEENTH INFANTRY. This regiment was mustered into service January 17, i862, at Kalamazoo. Colonel, Charles E. Stuart; Lieutenant Colonel, Orlando H. Moore; Major, Frederick W. Worden. Its first battle, where it fought bravely, losing 95 men, killed, wounded and missing, was at Pittsburg Landing. Among its other important engagements, it participated in the bloody battle at Stone River, and also at Chickamauga. It had a very active and busy career from beginning to end of its service, closing with the Atlanta campaign and the march to the sea with Gen. Sherman. It was mustered out at Louisville, July 25, I865, and two days later disbanded at Jackson. Its total enrollment had been 2,084, and its losses numbered 390. FOURTEENTH INFANTRY. Organized and rendezvoused at Ypsilanti, this regiment was mustered February 13, I862. Robert P. Sinclair, Colonel; Robert W. Davis, Lieutenant Colonel; Myndert W. Quackenbush, Major. It left Ypsilanti April 17, for Pittsburg Landing. Colonel Sinclair and his Lieutenant, Davis, resigned in September, and the regiment was commanded during the latter part of its service by Colonel Henry R. Mizner. It was a gallant organization, largely composed of volunteers of Irish nativity, who never knew when they were whipped. It took part in many sharp engagements, was in the Atlanta campaign, and particularly distinguished itself at the battle of Jonesboro, Ga., Sept. I, 1864. Its total enrollment was i,8o6, and its losses were 247. It was mustered out at Louisville July i8, and disbanded at Detroit July 21, I865. While they were in the field, many laughable anecdotes were told of the quick-witted Hibernians of this regiment. Here is a sample: A soldier obtained leave to go fishing. Meeting with no luck at fishing, and wishing to return to camp with something, he caught a small pig which he found at large near his fishing point, tied it with the string which he had intended to carry fish with, and started for quarters; taking much pains to get within the line of sentinels undetected in his attempt to evade the order against bringing live stock into camp. He suc FOURTEENTH, TWENTY-FIRST, TWENTY-FIFTH, TWENTY-SIXTH INFANTRY. 585 ceeded in passing the guards, but before reaching his tent was halted by an officer, who inquired: "Been fishing, Mike?"" Yis Sor." "Caught any?" "Niver a wan.","Bad luck, Mike?" "Yis, Sor." "But you brought in something?" "Niver a hap'orth." "0, yes you have; and don't you know there is an order against bringing pigs into camp?" "Yis, Sor, but I didn't." I"You have." "No I haven't." "But what's that behind you?" Mike turned around, and in apparent amazement exclaimed: "Bedad! some thafe of the worruld has tied an innocent pig to me fish line!" The officer turned away with a grin on his face, and Mike slipped into his tent. TWENTY-FIRST INFANTRY. The Twenty-first Regiment was rendezvoused at Ionia, was raised in the Fourth Congressional District, and recruited largely from Kent and Ionia counties. It was mustered in at Ionia, Sept. 4, 862,and left for the seat of war Sept. 12. Colonel, Ambrose A. Stevens; Lieutenant Colonel, William L. Whipple; Major, Isaac Hunting. This was eminently a fighting regiment, from the beginning to the end of its service. October 8, less than four weeks after leaving camp at Ionia, it was in the battle of Perryville, Ky. From there it moved to Bowling Green, and then to Nashville. It was engaged at Lavergne, Dec. 27, and at Stewart's Creek on the 2gth, and also participated in the five days' battle at Stone River, immediately following. This regiment was in the hottest of the fight at Chickamauga, and there was distinguished for its courageous behavior. It served with credit in the Atlanta campaign and "march to the sea." During most of the two weeks prior to the evacuation of Savannah, in December, 1864, the men of this regiment held a portion of the works in the most exposed position on the line in front of that place. Their rations were short, and they suffered much from hunger and cold, being obliged to lie in the trenches, without tents, and very lightly clad, few of them having blankets. During the twenty-five days occupied on the march from Atlanta, only two and a half days rations wCie issued to this regiment, and its subsistence was procured mainly by foraging upon the inhabitants of the country through which it passed. In the latter part of January, 1865, under the command of Capt. 60 Arthur C. Prince, it marched up the Savannah River; in February crossed into South Carolina, and finally through into North Carolina. Encountering the enemy at Bentonville, it had there a sharp engagement with the enemy, suffering considerable loss. The regimental roster showed a total membership of 1,447, and a loss of 368 by the fortunes of war. It was mustered out at the District of Columbia, June 8, and reached Detroit June I3, I865, where the men were paid and discharged. TWENTY-FIFTH INFANTRY. This regiment was organized at Kalamazoo, and drew a portion of one company from Kent county. Colonel, Orlando H. Moore; Lieutenant Colonel, Benjamin F. Orcutt; Major, Dewitt C. Fitch. It was mustered into the service Sept. 22, 1862, and left Kalamazoo Sept. 29. It especially distinguished itself July 4, 1863, by its effective defense of a stockade at Tebb's Bend, on Green River, Ky.. against the entire command of the rebel General John H. Morgan. It was engaged in the Atlanta campaign, and in Gen. Thomas' defense of Nashville. During 1864 it participated with credit in several battles in Georgia, and was finally mustered out at Salisbury, N. C., June 24, 1865. Its total enrollment was 968 men, and its total loss i66. TWENTY-SIXTH INFANTRY. The Twenty-sixth was organized at Jackson, was mustered Dec. 12, 1862, and left the State the next day for the war. Colonel, Judson S. Farrar; Lieutenant Colonel, Henry H. Wells; Major, William O'Donnell. Co. I of this regiment was recruited at Lowell, Kent county. While in camp at Jackson the regiment was presented by the ladies of that place with a magnificent silk flag. It was assigned to provost duty in Alexandria, Va., where it remained until April, 1863. In the summer of that year it was part of the force that was sent to New York to assist in maintaining order during the period of mob lawlessness. After that it was in the campaigns of the Army of the Potomac until the close of the war, making for itself a praiseworthy record. It had a membership of 1,210, while its losses were 259. It was mustered out June 4, i865, at Alexandria, and on June 7 disbanded at Jackson. 586 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. ENGINEERS AND MECHANICS. This regiment was organized under special orders from the War Department, to be composed, as the name indicates, principally of practical engineers and mechanics. Authority to raise it was given to William P. Innes, a civil engineer, who was appointed Colonel, with full power to designate his officers. Enlistment began in August, I86I. It was rendezvoused at Marshall, was mustered into service October 29, and left the State December 17. Colonel, William P. Innes; Lieutenant-Colonel, Kinsman A. Hunton; Major, Enos Hopkins; Surgeon, William H. DeCamp. At this time it comprised ten companies, but was subsequently recruited to twelve companies of 150 men each, by Captain P. V. Fox of Company D. In the early part of its service six of the companies were commanded by Grand Rapids men. This regiment won special distinction, not only in its legitimate work as an engineering corps, but also on several occasions as a fighting force. Reaching the field in December, and reporting to Gen. Buell at Louisville, Kentucky, it was assigned to duty in four detachments-one to report to Gen. McCook, commanding at Munfordville, Kentucky; one to Gen. Thomas, at Lebanon; one to Gen. Nelson, at New Haven, and the fourth to Gen. Mitchell, at Bacon Creek. These during January, February and March, 1862, were engaged in various duties, the chief of which was building railroad bridges. In April, Col. Innes with his field and staff and eight companies, were with Buell' s Army of the Ohio, in the march for the field of Shiloh, Mississippi, reaching there April 15. On the way they built several road bridges, and the celerity of their work, enabled Gen. Buell to reach the scene of action in time to aid Gen. Grant to bring complete victory out of threatened defeat. From its entry into service, to the close of the war, this was an extraordinarily busy regiment. Sent here and there, detachments of the engineers were constantly at work, where building or repairs of roads or bridges were needed. Its services were especially valuable to the Government, and highly appreciated, giving it a National as well as a State reputation second to few or none in the history of the War of the Rebellion. Its three years' time expired October 31, 1864, and such of its officers as desired to leave the service were mustered out, including Col. Innes. But by re-enlistments it maintained its full strength and organization, until the close of the war, receiving frequently from Gens. Rosecrans, Thomas and others commanding, highly complimentary mention, of the labors and the gallantry of its officers and men. The amount of bridge and railroad building done by this regiment, looking back upon its record, seems almost marvelous. Besides its regular engineering duty, it participated in nearly a dozen serious engagements with the enemy; notably at Farmington and Corinth, Mississippi; at Perryville, Kentucky; at Chattanooga, Tennessee; at the siege of Atlanta, Georgia, and it won meritorious distinction in its gallant defense of Lavergne, Tennessee, during the famous battle of Stone River. Capt. P. V. Fox and the pontoniers under his command, received special compliments from Maj. Gen. Thomas for putting a bridge across the river at Brown's Ferry near Chattanooga, October 26, 1863, during a sharp fight. The Engineers and Mechanics went into the field with an aggregate strength of 1,132, which during its service was increased to a total enrollment of 3,200, officers and men. Its losses were, thirteen men killed in action or died of wounds, one officer, Capt. James W. Sligh, by railroad accident, and 342 died of disease. The regiment was mustered out September 22, i865, at Nashville, and three days later disbanded at Jackson. Surgeon William H. DeCamp, of this command, was appointed Post Surgeon and Medical Director in charge of the hospitals at Harrodsburg, Kentucky, in October, 1862, and for his efficient and humane management received a card of acknowledgment from fourteen surgeons of the Confederate Army. There were several thousand sick and wounded rebel soldiers in those hospitals. WILLIAM POWER INNES was born in New York City January 22, I826, and entered upon the hustling work of a busy life at the early age of thirteen years, when he took upon himself the partial support of a widowed mother, a sister and a brother. His early education he owes to that beloved mother, never having had any other advantages worth mentioning. He entered into r ~s: :: -;':"Ta=n 15sr I ---I C I a%slsesHtaRI,:iiiii;:l:'ii -/~-=-:~::~;:; -- zr: I-.-r%- -;=:j i -'i r-: rl, ti — WILLIAM P. INNES —FIRST CAVALRY —SECOND CAVALRY. 587 the employ of the Erie Railway as a civil engineer at the age of sixteen, and remained until the completion of that great line of travel. Early in 1853 he left New York and came to Michigan as a civil engineer in the employ of the Detroit, Grand Haven and Milwaukee Railroad Company-then the Oakland and Ottawa-and has since that time called Grand Rapids his home. He remained in the employ of this road until its completion, when he took charge of the then called Amboy and Lansing Railroad, extending from Jonesville to Saginaw, and was with that until i86i. In 1857 he made the first preliminary survey for a road from Grand Rapids to Mackinaw, being the land grant road, afterward merged into the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad. Soon after the battle of Bull Run in i861, he obtained special permission from President Abraham Lincoln to raise a regiment of engineer officers and soldiers, together with a battery of artillery. He was commissioned Colonel September 12, i86I; entered the field with his command (Michigan Engineers and Mechanics), joining the Army of the Ohio in the fall of that year, and remained in the service a little over three years, part of which time he was Military Superintendent of Railroads of the Department of the Cumberland, under General Rosecrans. In I865 he entered the service of the railroads in Tennessee, and remained until the fall of I868, when ill health compelled his return to Michigan. During his civil life in Tennessee he had the general management of the Nashville and Chattanooga and Nashville and North Western Railroads, the latter of which lie also managed as Receiver, under Governor Brownlow, for some time. He was also President and Chief Engineer of the Nashville and Tennessee Railroad. After returning to Michigan he gave up active life as a railroad man, although he has done much in that line as consulting engineer. He served as Commissioner of Railroads of Michigan during Governor Begole's administration in I883-84. For the past few years he has devoted the most of his time to his own private affairs. Early in life he took an active interest in Freemasonry, having filled a number of positions both in subordinate and grand bodies of the State, and at present he occupies the honorable and responsible position of Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge and Grand Chapter, and Grand Recorder of the Grand Commandery, K. T. He married, June 5, I850, Arianna A., youngest daughter of David P. Tinkham, of Owego, Tioga County, New York, with whom he passed years of happiness, until July 3, I88i, when she passed into rest, loved and beloved by all. By this marriage there were four children-two sons and two daughters. The youngest son joined his mother a short time ago; the three remaining children are residents of this city. FIRST CAVALRY. The First Regiment of Michigan Cavalry was organized at Detroit; was mustered into service at that place September 13, and left for the front September 29, I86I. Colonel, Thornton F. Brodhead; Lieutenant Colonel, Joseph Copland; Majors, William S. Atwood, Angelo Paldi, Charles H. Town. George K. Johnson of Grand Rapids was the first Surgeon of this regiment; after him Samuel R. Wooster; and about fifty of its men were from Kent County. This, with the Fifth, Sixth and Seventh Regiments, constituted the celebrated Michigan Cavalry Brigade, of the Army of the Potomac. Going in with I,I44, it carried on its rolls during its service, 3,244 officers and men. Its losses numbered-io officers and 92 men killed in action, 5 officers and 46 men died of wounds, and 5 officers and 246 men died of disease. It was mustered out, paid off and disbanded March io, i866, at Salt Lake City, Utah. SECOND CAVALRY. The Second Cavalry was organized by Francis W. Kellogg of Grand Rapids, then a Member of Congress, under authority given him by the Secretary of War, and was rendezvoused at this city. Lieutenant Colonel, William C. Davis; Majors, Robert H. G. Minty, Seldon H. Gorham, Charles P. Babcock. Surgeon, Charles L. Henderson. It was mustered October 2, I86I, at Grand Rapids, and left November 14 for St. Louis, where Col. Gordon Granger of the U. S. Army took command. Colonel Granger having been promoted to be Brigadier-General, on May 25, 1862, Capt. Philip H. Sheridan of the U. S. Army was appointed Colonel. Sheridan at once assumed command, was soon in the saddle, and in a few days in the spirited fight at Boonville,which resulted in a victory recorded as among the 588 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. most notable of the minor achievements of the war. July I, 1862, Sheridan was promoted to be Brigadier-General, and his subsequent brilliant career is well known to all readers of American history. Col. Archibald P. Campbell was then appointed Colonel. The Second was one of the noted active cavalry regiments in the Western Army, and did much to vindicate the cavalry branch of the service from the odium which some of the higher commanders seemed disposed to cast upon it at the beginning of the war. It took prominent part in nearly seventy engagements with the enemy, whose descriptions are set down in the military histories, and therein it made a record of which the State, as well as Grand Rapids, is justly proud. For a time in the fall of 1863, while serving in the First Brigade, it was in command of Major L. S. Scranton. It bore on its rolls during its term of service, 2,425 names, and encountered a total loss of 338 officers and men, of whom 70 were killed in action or died of wounds, and 266 died of disease. August 17, 1865, it was mustered out at Macon, Ga., and August 26 paid off and disbanded at Jackson. THIRD CAVALRY. Simultaneously with the Second, under the superintendence of Col. Kellogg, this regiment was organized at Grand Rapids; was mustered in Nov. I, and left the State Nov. 28, i86I, under command of Lieut. Col. Minty, for St. Louis, where it was stationed at Benton Barracks. Colonel, Francis W. Kellogg; Lieutenant Colonel, Robert H. G. Minty; Majors, Edward Gray, William S. Burton, Obed H. Foote. The appointment of Col. Kellogg having been made by the War Department, he was mustered in with the regiment, but with his consent was soon after mustered out of service, and on March 7, 1862, Capt. John K. Mizner of the U. S. Army was commissioned Colonel. This was also a fighting regiment and made for itself a splendid record. During November and December, 1863, it had very active service, being engaged almost constantly in scouting and various expeditions through Northern Mississippi and Western Tennessee, and at the same time having frequent encounters with the enemy. In January, 1864, 592 of its men re-enlisted, and were mustered in as Veteran Volunteers, after which it had a furlough of thirty days, with rendezvous at Kalamazoo. At the end of 1863 the Third Cavalry had marched more than o, ooo miles, exclusive of marches in separate companies and detachments, and had captured upward of 2, ooo prisoners. Its total enrollment during its service was 2,560; total loss, 414, of whom 375 died of disease. It is related that while this regiment was on the march from San Antonio to Indianola, Texas, on the way home in i866, one night they bivouacked near a ranch. One of the officers asked the woman if she did not fear for her hen-roost, with so many soldiers about. "0, no," she laughingly replied, "I have not had any chickens since Gen. Grant's Illinois regiments went through here." The Third was mustered out at San Antonio, Feb. 12, and arrived at Jackson March o1, I866, where it was paid off and disbanded. FOURTH CAVALRY. This regiment went into rendezvous at Detroit, was mustered into service Aug. 29, and left for the front Sept. 26, 1862, under Colonel Robert H. G. Minty. About three score of its men were from Kent county. It was among the foremost of the fighting forces of the war, did splendid service in the campaign of the Army of the Cumberland, participating in more than a hundred battles and skirmishes, and gave the finishing stroke to the Rebellion by the capture of Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States, at Irwinville, Ga., under Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin D. Pritchard of Allegan. In reference to this and another important incident of the war, Chaplain George Taylor of the Eighth Michigan Infantry added the following stanza to a well-known poem: Ericsson's Monitor with grace, Michigan, my Michigan, The Rebel Merrimac did chase, Michigan, my Michigan; Our Worden fought that iron-clad, Yet Michigan more glory had, When Pritchard caught the woman-clad, Michigan, my Michigan. At the close of service the Fourth had borne on its rolls 2,217 officers and enlisted men, and had suffered a total loss of 375, of whom 327 died of disease. It was mustered / r-'. / ^~^yI,-7 -f 00, I CHAPTER LXI. BANKS AND BANKERS. BY HARVEY J. HOLLISTER. [NOTE.-In this chapter on "Banks and Banking," in the chapter on "Medicine and Sungery," and also in that on "The Bench and the Bar," the long biographies beginning with names set in capital letters have been written, in most cases, also some of the shorter personal sketches, by the Editor of this book, or by others than the authors of the chapters respectively.-EDIToR.] So LARGE a part in the history of this Nation does the business of banking bear, that no complete history of the United States can be written unless it embraces a review of the monetary institutions so intimately, and it may be said vitally, connected with the National growth and prosperity. In the great crises which have arisen at different periods in the Nation's life, the absolute necessity of a sound financial policy, and suitable and adequate instruments by means cf which that policy might be carried out, have been most apparent. These instruments for more than a hundred years have been in large measure the banking institutions, and these have been called into existence more than once by the absolute necessities of the Government. The first bank organized in this country, the Bank of North America, located at Philadelphia, and which still exists under the name and title of the National Bank of North America, was an expedient devised in 1780, for the support of the war, by a voluntary association of citizens of Philadelphia, formed on the seventeenth of June of that year, for the purpose of opening a security subscription to the amount of $ 1,500, ooo, to be expended, or so much as should be needed, in sending three millions of rations to the army, then reduced to the greatest distress for want of food and clothing. The organization was termed a Bank. Congress warmly seconded the movement, and appointed a committee to confer with those having it in charge. Upon the report of the committee Congress resolved that this association or bank should be fully indemnified out of the public treasury for all losses sustained in so patriotic a movement. So valuable was the aid furnished by this bank that Robert Morrls, then Financial General of the Govern ment, determined to secure for it a legal organization, and applied to Congress therefor. A charter was granted December 31, I791, conferring the usual and proper powers and naming the first Board of Directors and their President. It provided for a capital equal to $o,ooo,ooo000,. The bank commenced operations with $400,000, of which Congress promised to subscribe $250,000, but found itself able to pay in but $50,000. We, who live at a time when the Treasury of the Nation is overflowing and a surplus of $Ioo,ooo,ooo awaiting distribution, can poorly comprehend the poverty and financial distress that the Government experienced at the time when the first bank in the Nation's history came into existence. The citizens of Philadelphia subscribed but $85,000, and the balance, $265,000, was furnished from abroad, chiefly from Holland. "The act incorporating this bank was an event," so the historian tells us, "of first rate importance in the history of the country. It was the first adequate attempt of the kind to symbolize its merchandise so that it could be made available and transferred from hand to hand without the interposition of coin. Subsequent experience has proved the wisdom evinced in the establishment of the bank, for in no other way than by the use of banks has it been found possible to supply, on a sufficient scale, adequate instruments of distribution in the place of coin, which, so long as they serve as such, may properly be termed money." Bank credits, bank issues or circulation, based upon ample capital and strict business principles, have proved to be most important factors in the growth and development of the natural resources which the Nation possesses. A prominent and able writer of English history, summing up the events (fi68 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. connected with the Napoleonic wars, gives it as his opinion that had not'the Bank of England extended extraordinary assistance by way of credits to the English Government, even the combined armies of Europe would not have been successful. The value of associated capital in great National emergencies was perhaps never more forcibly illustrated than during the early days of our late war. We may go back, however, first, to the War of I812. The exigencies of that war caused the aid of a National Bank to be considered indispensable. The United States Bank,'organized in I79I, had been defeated in I8II, in its attempt to renew its charter, and passed out of existence. In 1814 a bill for the charter of a second United States Bank passed Congress, establishing the capital at $35, 000,00. This bank existed,with a large measure of success to itself and value to the country, until 1832, when the bill to extend its charter, having passed both houses of Congress, was vetoed by President Jackson. Up to that time, and subsequent to the extinguishment of the second United States Bank, the history of banking, under various forms and conditions, was as varied and as multiform as the rapidly changing and immature conditions of the people would warrant. Each State had its laws regulating the establishment of banking organizations and the issuing of bills for circulation. Oftentimes these laws were so poorly framed that they proved open doors to stupendous frauds; the adventurer and speculator being the gainer, and the people the losers. It would be quite impossible to make an estimate that would adequately cover the losses sustained'by the people through the unwise system of banking that prevailed for more than a quarter of a century immediately preceding the time when the present system, known as the National Bank system, was instituted. No Nation under less favorably conditions than our own could have borne the losses and preserved its credit. THE NAT'IONAL, BANK SYSTEM. The introduction of the National Banking System by Secretary Chase, in the early part of President Lincoln's administration, at first received severe criticisms from many sources, and it is doubtless a fact that the movement toward centralization and governmental regulation of the monetary affairs of the nation, meeting with sharp and persistent opposition from many of the most experienced and wise financiers of that day, could not have been successfully instituted and carried forward except as a war measure, and therefore apparently a National necessity. Mr. Chase was not a practical financier. He presented his views and insisted upon their acceptance in opposition to the combined and practically unanimous conclusions of those who stood at the head of financial affairs in New York, Boston and Philadelphia. The recommendation of legislation practically prohibiting all issue of circulating bills by State banks, and forbidding, under heavy penalties, the paying out of any currency except that issued under sanction of a National law, was, except under extreme conditions, such conditions as a Nation's dire necessity, an act, to say the least, of great assumption. Previously the State was supposed to control to a large extent its internal affairs, and to provide through its own legislation for the establishment of banks and the issues of bank circulation-it being claimed that the right to charter banks was among those reserved to the States, and never conferred upon the General Government. Mr. Chase suggested -first, a circulation of notes bearing a common impression, and all thus sealed by a common authority; second, the redemption of these notes by the associations and institutions to which they should be delivered for issue, and third, the security of redemption by a pledge of bonds and an adequate provision of coin. It is needless to refer to the bitter opposition with which these and kindred suggestions were met. It is only necessary to say that Mr. Chase's suggestions became the supreme law of the land, and that law has remained, with some unimportant changes, until this time. It is reasonable to suppose, in view of the beneficent working of the system, that the people will never consent to return to the systems of banking that prevailed prior to I86I and 1862. It would be hard to find in any country another system that combines freedom and safety to such a degree. The protection of the bill holders is perfect, and that of the depositors more nearly so than under any other system hitherto devised. Demagogues and the ignorant may continue to declaim against "monopolies and legalized robbers," but the people, especially THE NATIONAL BANK SYSTEM-EARLY MICHIGAN BANKS. 669 those who remember the old days of State banks and worthless issues circulating as money, will see to it that the present system is preserved; and particularly and emphatically will this be the feeling of the people so long as the system shall continue to extend its privileges to all who may comply with its liberal and yet conservative conditions. Our own State has recently adopted by act of its Legislature, and confirmed such act by the popular vote of the people, a system of banking, resembling in many of its best features the National system. The National Congress as yet reserves to itself and to those banks organized under its laws, the privilege of issuing bills for circulation. It is a question in many minds whether Congress should not assume to furnish the entire circulating medium required by the business interests of the country. Grave objections prevail with many others very wise in such affairs as to such a course on the part of the Nation, and so the question is yet an open one. Let us hope it will be decided wisely, and in the interest of the greatest number. EARLY MICHIGAN BANKS. A bank was established in Michigan in 80o6, by an association of Boston capitalists or speculators. It was incorporated by act of the Governor and Judges, then constituting the Legislature, passed September I9, 1806. For those days, when the entire civilized population of Michigan was less than 5,000, it was to be a colossal institution, with a charter to run o10 years, and a capital authorized of $I,ooo,00ooo, divided into Io,ooo shares. It issued a large amount of notes-authorities vary as to the total, but range between $60o,ooo and $,600oo,ooo -used mostly in the eastern States. It was named Detroit Bank, and its banking house was in Detroit, at the corner of Jefferson avenue and Randolph street. Its history is interesting but cannot be given here. Its billholders certainly did not get rich. Its charter was annulled by Congress in March, 1807. Another bank in Michigan Territory was organized in I818, under the title of the Bank of Michigan. It was located in Detroit, and its President and Cashier were respectively John R. Williams and James McCloskey. The capital of the bank was o100,000, of which but $io,ooo was actually paid in. This bank, under many changes and vicissitudes, continued for twenty-four years, finally failing in 1842. In 1834 The Michigan Insurance Company obtained a charter from the Legislature, under which, the projectors claimed that a oanking business could be done, and with a capital of $12,500 this institution began in 1838 to transact a regular banking business. This bank continued to do on the whole a successful business until i865, when it was converted into the National Insurance Bank, with a capital of $200,000. The first effort to extend banking facilities to the residents of Grand River Valley seems to have been crowned with success in 1838. I find a statement of the assets and liabilities of the Grand River Bank, as published under date of December 7, 1838, which will certainly interest all who may chance to peruse these pages, and so I give it in full, and also the statement of the Bank of Niles, under date of November 28, I838, and that of the Erie and Kalamazoo Railroad Bank, December 20,1838. The Grand River Bank had for its officers, John Almy, President, and William A. Richmond, Cashier: GRAND RIVER BANK, December 7, 1838. ASSETS. LIABILITIES. (verdrafts............. 3,930 Capital, ~50,000........ 15,149 Disc. (under protest).... 27,750 Deposits (27 Depositors).. 8,860 " Not due.......... 2,229 Circulation............. 16,949 Specie................. 4,403 Due to other CorporaBills of other Banks.... 4,021 tions................. 2,088 Personal and Real Property................. 1,313 $43,646 $43,646 RANK OF NILES, November 28, 1838. ASSETS I.IABILITIES. Overdrafts............ $ 549 Capital, $100,000...... Discounts(underprotest) $46,648 Paid in..............$30,000 Not due...... 5,067 Deposits (68 Depositors). 11,302 Specie................. 1,251 Circulation............. 8,583 Bills of other Banks.... 4,900 Due other Corporations. 17,195 Personal & Real Est.... 3,510 Profits................. 60 Stock in Companies.... 6,765 $68,735 $671.40 ERIE AND KALAMAZOO RAILROAD BANK, December 20, 1838. RESOURCES. LIABILITIES. Bills disc (past due)....$ 95,494 Capital (Pd. in $66,000).$100,000 Bills disc. not due..... 14,039 60 Depositors.......... 17,056 Overdrafts............ 32,694 Circulation............ 40,268 Due from Banks....... 4,779 Profits................ 2,794 Specie................ 4,175 Bills other Banks...... 7,536 $160,118 Real and Personal pro. 512 Due from Directors.... $ 30,867.... other Stock$159,234 holders.............. 42,952 These statements are as originally published, and indicate, as will readily be seen, an utter absence of correct methods either in form or statement. It does not seem to have been at all necessary in those days to 670 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. consider any less sums than round dollars, as no cents appear in any of the statements; nor was it obligatory upon the bank to have the two sides of the books agree one with the other, as appears in the last two statements. I have procured and herewith place before the reader the advertisement at the final winding up by a Receiver of the Grand River Bank, after a fitful existence of about three years. It is not too much to say that some fair reputations became insolvent about the same time, and passed into the Receiver's possession. It must have been so, for their previous claimants never seemed to have valid possession cf them in later years: RECEIVER'S NOTICE. - The undersigned, Receiver of the Grand River Bank, at Grand Rapids, Michigan, hereby notifies the creditors of said Bank, having their claims duly authenticated according to the provisions of law, that a meeting of such creditors will be held at his office, in this village, on Wednesday, the 25th day of August next, at 2 o'clock P. M., of that day, at which time the undersigned will lay before said meeting the details of his doings and ask the consideration of the said creditors thereon. Dated Grand Rapids, June 21, I84I. GEO. MARTIN, Receiver. The office of the Grand River Bank was in a small building on the northwest corner of Bridge and Kent streets. Another of the banks of that period (wildcats, as they were called) was started in Grand Rapids, on Monroe street; Louis Campau was its President, and Simeon M. Johnson, Cashier. It was wound up before it had fairly begun operations, and perhaps the most important transaction connected with its career was the loss by Rix Robinson of some $900 in silver, which he lent to its cashier to make a show of assets to the State Bank Examiner, and never recovered. VILLAGE AND PRIVATE " SHINPLASTERS." In those early days of our history, the village of Grand Rapids was apparently compelled to resort to extreme measures to meet its obligations, and such was the scarcity of a circulating medium, that, according to the records of the Village, the corporation undertook to furnish for the time being a currency of its own. The Village Board, at a meeting the record of which bears no date (probably about September 12, 1838), passed the following: Resolved, That this Board order to be printed for the use of the Corporation, three hundred dollars in bills of the denomination of one dollar and two dollars, which shall be signed by the Treasurer and countersigned by the President, and shall be issued in the payment of debts. The form of the notes shall be as follows: " For value received, the President and Trustees of the Village of Grand Rapids promise to pay to............. o r b e a r e r........ d o lla r s o n d e m a n d. Receivable for all taxes and all dues to the Corporation." "Grand Rapids, 12 Sept., 1838. C. I. WALKER, Treasurer. H. C. SMITH, President." On the same page of the village record is a memorandum showing the number of notes or bills issued and to whom payable: 'One Dollar"-Nos. i to 20, to James Watson; 20 to 40, to A. H. Smith; 40 to 60, to E. Emerson; 60 to 80, to Louis Godfroy; 80 to oo, to J. W. Peirce; 0oo to I20, to L. Campau; 120 to I40, to Mr. Stoddard; I40 to i60, to Smith & Brownell; i60 to 8o0, to W. A. Richmond; I80 to 200, to E. B. Bostwick. "Two Dollars"-Nos. I to Io, to T. Campau; I0 to 20, to J. N. Elbert; 20 to 30, to G. R. Whitney; 30 to 40, to J. M. & G. C. Nelson; 40 to -, to Cook & Evans. These shinplasters were freely used for seven or eight years, and were doubtless all called in and canceled. About this time some' of the prominent citizens undertook to supply any remaining vacuum that might exist, and so sent out their own "promises to pay" in bank note form of small denominations; even as small as 614 cents. A fac simzile of one of the issues of Jefferson Morrison, at that time a prominent merchant, is herewith presented. It is pleasant to bear record to the fact that the currency issued by Judge Morrison was in excellent credit through the Grand River valley, and that it was all promptly redeemed when demand was made. The Judge, now well on in the eighties, has lived to witness marvelous changes, both in the character and quality of our circulating medium, and also in many of those things which money purchases. It is quite possible that the Judge sometimes longs for the simple, yet earnest, rugged days of olden times. Who that has attained his age does not? Referring to the published statements of the Grand River Bank as well as those of its cotemporaries, it will be quite evident to the reader that the citizens of Michigan did not have a patent on wise banking methods. Most of the paper held by those banks had passed into the Notary's hands, as appears by the statements. SHINPLASTER CURRENCY-" WILDCAT" BANKING. 671 "WILDCAT" BANKING. Those were the days of extraordinary acts. Men of apparently sound minds and excellent reputation, men of business sagacity and ordinary prudence, were carried away by the craze for Michigan lands and town sites and city and village lots. Money was manufactured and put in circulation about as rapidly as charters could be obtained. From 1836 to I840, a large number of banks were organized, and the delusive idea prevailed that banks created capital. Unscrupulous and ignorant legislators passed laws. The substance of the general banking law passed March 15, I837, was as follows: Any persons could form an association for banking business. The subscribers to stock were to elect nine directors referred to. The total nominal capital of these banks was $3,1 I5,000. Many of these banks were located at inaccessible points, and beyond reach of the Bank Commissioners or the bill holders. As for instance, at Sault Ste. Marie and Superior in the Upper Peninsula, and at Saline, Sharon, Gibraltar, Palmyra, Singapore, Kensington, Centerville and other equally unknown and remote points in the Lower Peninsula. The law was violated and evaded in many ways. Capital was not paid in; notes were issued in excess; securities were not always furnished, and when furnished were often of little or no value. A limited amount of coin served for the organization of many banks, and the three Commissioners appointed by the State, energetic, sagacious and honest though they SI\kWhere ibty dweI *here isg my ftountry. ao ^0 ^ 'sl@-^^ ON DEMAND J. MORRISON, Iwill f^ rc Ppay^ to Be^^ iZ,^^^ - otr Bearer,; _ ~lJ A at his OC ice, G tvn RESIDENCE OF E. CROFTON AND CHARLES FOX-4I3 CHERRY STREET, CORNER COLLEGE AVENUE-BUILT IN I889. BUILDINGS AND HOMES.77 775 RESIDENCE OF GFOIRCF, KENDALL-T05 FOUNTAIN STREET-BUILT IN i850. RESIDENCE OF JOHN CAULFIELD-ITO SHELDON STREET-BUILT IN i885-86. 7'76 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS., cc 0q I-) CQ (Z 03 I cl ^1 in Q~ BUILDINGS AND HOMES.77 7 77 RESTIDENCE OF WILLIAM DUNHAM-63 JEFFERSON AVENUE. RESIDENCE OF GAIUS WV. PERKINS-i~i FOUNTAIN STREET-BUILT IN 1882. 84 TT8 Q 0 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. w 0 z 0 (f) cl (9 w X, C) z CI) iwd w v4 F — Ir V) 411 O4 X, (p 23 i:." , -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~tT RESi DENC O HARRY IDD- ICOM-B 6 _. ULO R T =- -|~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-_ ---.:::i B l _ _~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-:: —:l::ii —:- --- - ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-li:-~ii.:::::: I:1i-:_:C RESIDENCE OF HARRY WIDDICOMB-369 E. FULTON SA ReET.~~~~~~~~~I -I 780 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. N~~~~~ 0 %X.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~/-r/ BUILDINGS AND HOMES. 781 ~Jo I Q2 On rI en 0 0 Cf) i^ 'J 0r 782 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. I i 3.1 I I 4, III I 1I j:: I i t;t z Cl) TI Cl) tf O m RESIDENCE OF MRS. ANNA BISSELL-8o SOUTH COLLEGE AVENUE-BUILT IN 1867. 784 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. F, FU) F FCr F0 C-) z cC U)i x s I Ifi" r^ V: CC I — i tzr cc RESIDENCE OF WVILLIAM HARRISON-WEST BRIDGE STREET-BUILT IN I854; REBUILT IN I8go. .1 I 0 w r td r cc cc3 PI~,SMI\IOH(v( (INN' SOSICJVfII 982 (L ) BUILDINGS ANI) HOMES. 7 87 5 1 -0~ Pli I 3 l) 1. 4 m C,) 1I rD ~^ h) z^ 788 788 ~~~~BUILDINGS AND HOMES. RESIDENCE OF J. D. UTLEY-401 CHERRY STREET-BUILT IN I844. I MICHIGAN MvASONIC HOME. CHAPTER LXVI. STATISTICS. POPULATION. POPULATION BY SEX. YEARS. 1810............ 182().......... 183()............ 1834............ 1837............ 1840............ 1845......... 1850............ 1854............ 1860............ 18(4............ 1870............ 1874........... 188)............ 1884........... 18!0)........... CITY. 4,278 8,085.., 77....... 5................................................. 32,068 41,898 4,147 8,085) t~-), 770 25,(.)23 3'), 016 41,8 98 6(4, 147 COUNTY....................,................... 2, 022 2,587 6,153 12,016 17,786 30,743 33,477 50,540 62,671 73,253 84,600 101 935 STATE. 4, 762 8,896 31,639 87,273 17k,,025 212,(i7 302, 521 397,654 507,521 749,113 803,661 1,184,282 1,334,031 1,6336,937 1,853,658 2,089,792 1-850......... 1854.......... 1i8s0.......... 1864.......... 1870...... 1874.......... 1880.......... 1884.......... 1,346 2,140 4,09)7 4,651 8,345 13,207 21,136 1,340 2,104 3, ()88 5,119 8,163 12,716 20,7'62 (i,371 9,273 16,026 16, 880 26,166 32,576 38,014 43,467 5,645 8,513 14,564 16,5(67 24,244 30,095 35,239 41,133 I *Tlwnsship of Grand Rapids. 'Exclusive of soldiers in the field. The census of 1860 showed 125 colored persons and one Indian in the county; that of 1870, 167 colored and nine Indians; that of i88o, 513 colored, two Chinese and one Indian. Probably the enumerators did not hunt very carefully for Indians and ChinaImen. POPULATION BY NATIVITIES. CITY. COUNTY. YEARS.... Native. Foreign Native. Foreign 18(60(................ 24, 196 6, 1870.......... 10, 782 5,725 38,309 12,094 1880..... 22) 016 10,000 55,833 17,420 1884....................... 60,790 23,155 85 The census reports have some curious features, which may possibly puzzle future readers to understand. According to them there were in Michigan in I854, 616 more married men than married women. In 1864 there were 2,689 more married women than married men. In I874 the married males outnumbered the married females by 1,6II, and in 1884 the preponderance of married males over married females was 3,045. The discrepancy in 1864 may doubtless be attributed to the war, but that of 1884 is not so easily accounted for. It is probably the result of difficulties in enumerating traveling men and others absent from home at the time of taking the census, being liable to be counted both at their homes and wherever they may happen to meet the enumerator. In I8io there were twenty-four slaves in the Territory of Michigan. 790 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. KENT COUNTY VILLAGES-POPULATION. NAMES. When Pop. June Incorporated 1, 1884. Casnovia............ 1875 215 Cedar Springs.......... 1871 1,023 Lisbon................. 1869 110 Lowell................. 1859 1,838 Rockford.............. 1871 815 Sand Lake............. 1879 571 Sparta................ 1883 695 Casnovia lies partly in Tyrone township, Kent county, and partly in Casnovia, Mus kegon county. Cedar Springs lies in two towns, Solon and Nelson. Lisbon is partly in Sparta, Kent county, and partly in Chester, Ottawa county. Rockford is at the corner of the four towns, Courtland, Plainfield, Algoma and Cannon, lying party in each. Lowell (originally named Dansville, but changed to Lowell in 1857) is in the township of Lowell. Sand Lake is in the township of Nelson. Sparta village is in Sparta township. KENT COUNTY TOWNSHIPS-POPULATION-FIVE CENSUSES.* Ada................................................ A lgom a........................................... Alpine......................................... B ow ne............................................. Byron............................................. C aledonia........................................ Cannon........................................... Cascade.......................................... C ourtland................................... Gaines.............................................. Grand Rapids....................................... Grattan......................................... Low ell.......................................... Nelson............................................. Oakfield......................................... Paris.............................................. Plainfield....................................... S o lon.......................................... Sparta............................. Spencer................................. Tyrone............................................. Vergennes......................................... W alker.................................... W yom ing..................................... I.I I I 1854 746 570 86 l 357 637 301 874 526(; 703 515 872 800 473......... 643 789 807 531 1,04,2 756; 788 1864 1874 1884 1800 1,094 992 1,194 814 1,145 923 1,142 94() 1,388 961 1,053 1,141 1,417 430 9 12 1,443 1,126 391 1, (32 209 257 1,21() 1,279 1, 195 1,351 2,591 1,348 1,240 1,504 1, 68( 1,2(5 1,05( 1,287 1,27 1,941 1,250 2,8 26 2,361 1, (080 1,81 (; 1,941 1,31(0 1,5 87 662 866 1,129 ) 1,884 2,008 1,321 2,061 1,404 1,284 1,679( 1,931 1,145 1,147 1,325 I, 307 4,127 1,163, 345 1,048,18.9 1,450, 691 2, 2 65 1,277 1,4()00 1,167 2,341 2,362 1,29(i 2,077 )fOj j 1,383 1,212 1,748 1, 790 1,115 1,147 1, 269 1,149 7,783 1,107 3,143 2, 147 1,047 3, 1 i6 1,767 2, (4( 1,260 1,499 1,094 3, 24() 3,240 *The figures for 1890 are those of the first or preliminary count. ASSESSED CITY VALUATION BY WARDS-1872' AND FROM 1878 TO 1890. WARD. 1872 1878 1879, 1880 1881 1882 1883 _ _. _.. _..__._. - _ - First....... $ 305,424 $ 693,75( $ 682,400 $ 681,375 $ 689,;625 $ 1,43, $ 1,525 Second... 1,274,905 2625,380 2, 850,880, 739,200 2,931, 33 5,858 243 5, 71,9(7( Third...... 821,673 1,877,839 1,816, 40 1,816,798 1,844,259 3,846,06( 3, t81,050 Fourth..... 949,78 1,959,508 1,908,450( 1,88(), 862 1,831,231 3, (i(, 190 3,60 3,873 Fifth....... 269,691 598,90 644,120 571,64(0 617,572 1,158,725 1114,9SO Sixth...... 135,:32 281,497 1,26;4,975 266,875 280,163.533,55( 503,160 Seventh.... 2(,817 49!3,165 4(;3,(;05 471,020 524,196!)53,005) 952,62 Eighth...... 236,439! 688 991 689, 995 (95,1 41 63,600 1,440,870 1, 494,82 Total..... $ 2,41,744 9,219,090 $10,320,885 $,1 11 $ 9,381,979 $18,915,758 $ 19,84,(12 _4~,,9, I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~.. CITY VALUATION AS ASSESSED-TAXATION BY WARDS. 791 ASSESSED CITY VALUATION BY WARDS-CONTINUED. WARD. 188485 1886 1887 1888 1889 1890 First..... $ 1,47,925 1,6 1,725,7, $ 1,)78,85 0 1,9 5 $1,4,764,600 $ 3,139,550 $,209,82 5 Second 6, 385,050 (6,47 9,765 (i6, 312, 790, (;6,119 1,500 5,456,920 (;,289,627 (;, 375, 780 Third...... 4,247 905 4,3i6, 0) 4,450 625 3,199 2 4,0 808,062 3,314,5,87 Fourth. 3,394545 3,240, 76 3,544,5 3,3432,190 3,059,9 05 3,574,189 3,555,540 Fifth......,;57, ( 1,053,160 1,053, (;00 1,053,740) 924,161 0 1,060,762 1,039, 725 Sixth.526.... 2, 05(10 532,495 543,680 555,660 51 (),(930 629,840 649,815 Seventh.... 993,400 (, 0() 1,013,400 1, 3(.9,020 (23,130 1,090,360 1,09 550 Eighth.... 1,55 1.195 1,(;85,532 1,(;2,805 1,688 325 1,510,,19) 1,0818,92)4 895,525 Ninth........................................................................... 876,197 Tenth........,......~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1, 608,658 Total....$1,71 3,641 $20,039,413 $20,328,115$19,901,262 18,200,00 $21,411,314 $ 2125202 TAXATION BY WARDS FOR A SERIES OF YEARS.. FIRST WARD. THIRD WARD. YEAR. I STATE. COUNTY. STATE. COUNTY. I CITY. SCHOO.. CITY. Y EAR. SCHOOL. 18(;7...... 1872...... 1878...... 1879...... 11.88..... 1881....... 1883...... 188..... 1SS...... 1X....... 1886...... 1887.. 1888...... 1889...... 1, 189 1,755 2, 349 1, 08 1, 882' '1, (;661 2,415 1,551 3,056(; 2,718 4 9501 3, 769 4,981 $ 6,001 I 464 3, 803 3,939 3,210) 3,214 3,205 3,015 1,814 1, 948 3,012 3,883 3,769 3,143 $12,315! 5,884 11, (0;8 12,682 1 1,4310 13 857, 15,66;(7 15,9;62 I 1(;,(;I 1 24,2 38 1 18,580 25,335 I28, 1193 32, 98 $ 7, 4)5 4,936 4,123 4,838 4,815 5,110 (;, 3( 6? 8,398 8, 86() 8 402 1(), 8:332 16, 241 16,350 16,5 02 18(7..... 1872...... 1878...... 187).. 188(..... 1881..... i 1885...... 188...... 1887..... 1888...... 1889...... $ 3, 107 3, 201 4,241 5 726 3, ()99 4,7(;(; 4,441 (;,580 4, 258 7,934 6,765 11,423 8,650) 11,195 $ 5,174 3, 939) 9, 192 )9,0()1 7,.982 8,142 8,566;(; 8,214 4, 98() 5,05()9 7, 496 8.962 8, (;50) 7, 0)63 $1 0, 619 15,976 26,752 301), 10() 28,419 35, 107 45, 80)7 43,471) 45, 590 6(2,')927 46, (617 58,467 65,505 74,154 I $ 5,187, 13, 28i) 1), 967( 1 1 7.92 11,9)73 14,746 22,230 19.233 24,:315 25,6 41 30,794 33,606 41 577 41,280 FOURTH WARD. SECOND WARI). 18t 18i ISt 18' 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 YEAR. STATE. COUNTY. 72......$ 4,955 $ 6,098 78...... 6,45 14,394 )...... 8, 984 15,064 80)...... (,4f;6 12 ( 6 81...... 7, 57; 12, 942 82..... (,764 13,048 83...... 9, 87) 12, 32 1 84...... 6,40 7,48i 85...... 11,771; 7,508 8(i...... 9, 5 5) 1 (), 3 87...... 15,791 12,88 88..... 11,)5 11, (i55 8( )..... 14, 644 9,239 CITY. $24, 49)3 41,889 48, 5(0 45,951 (i3,778 (66,149);8, 525 93,390 (;5,570) 80, 819 88,257 98,256 $ 20,557 20,802 1,410 22, 31 23,509 31,6 34 34,215 42, I363 18,0 (55 43,678 46,4531 561,018 54,0)10 SCHOOL. YEAR. 1867...... 1872...... 1878...... 1871S...... 188()...... 1.881...... 1882...... 1883...... 1884.... 1885...... 188 i...... 1887...... 1888...... 1889...... $ 955 3,701 4,428 (;,01 4, 1 4() 4,140 4,732 4,25( 5,!956:3,4(12 5,389 5,387 8,753 (,535 8,32'2 STATE. COUNTY. $ 1,591 4,554 9 ),592 10,()8 8, '2 3 9, (085 8,210 7,435 3,)80 6, 867 6,535) 5,250 $ CITY. 3,264 18, 29"2 27,915 32,477 29, 421 36, 62 4 40,131 39, 359 36,340 46, 7()8 36,815 44,8)1 49,489 55,151 SCHOOL. $ 4, 996 15,354 10,401 12, 390 12,395 12,855 16. 29)O 20,564 19,430 19, 9 32 24,298 28,816 31,411 27,567 I I i _ 792 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS. TAXATION BY WARDS-CONTINUED. - FIFTH WARD. SEVENTH WARD. YEAR. STATE. 1867...... 601 1872...... 1,050 1878..... 1,493 1879........ 2,030 1880...... 1,350 1881...... 1,596 1882...... 1,338 1883...... 1,843 1884...... 1,070 1885..... 1,914 1886...... 1,601 1887...... 2,687 1888..... 1,974 1889...... 2,479 COUNTY. $ 1,000 1,293 3,191 3,404 2,693 2,727 2,581 2,301 1,252 1,220 1,774 2,108,1,974 1,558 CITY. $ 2,054 5,293 9,285 10,961 9,589 11,756 12,615 12,177 11,457 15,179 10,943 13,755 14,776 1 6,360 SCHOOL. $ 3,143 4,359 3,460 4,182 4,040 4,335 5,124 5,387 (, 111 5,262 7,311 7.90,6 ),492 9,107 YEAR. 1872....'.. 1878...... 1879...... 1880...... 1881...... 188...... 1883...... 1884...... 1885.... 188...... 1887...... 1888...... 1889................ STATE. $ 821 1,210 1,596(; 1,112 1,355 1,10 1,574 996 1,817 1,540 2, 650 1,971 2,539 COUNTY. CITY. _ _ --- I ---- -. — $ 1,011 $ 4,059 2, 62 7,732 2,676( 8,6f15 2,2 '19) 7,901 2,314 9,9)7 2,113 10,37;. 1,9(6 10,404 1,165 10,; 661 1,159) 14,411 1,707 10,526 2,07(9 1 3,653 1,971 1,74() 1,602 16,816 SCHOOL. $ 3,407 3,798 3,287 3, 229 3, 680 4,214 4,(602 5,087 4, (;t) 6,137 7,,1; 8, 553 8,410 SIXTH WARD. EIGHTH WARD. YEAR. 1872...... 1878..... 1879..... 1880..... 1881...... 1882...... 1883...... 1884..... 1885..... 1886...... 1887...... 1888.. 1889...... STATE. $ 548 63( 912 588 724 616 832 968( 826 1,417 1,091l 1,466 COUNTY. $ 674 1,378 1,530 1,171 1,237 1,188 1,038 617 617 916 1,112 1,091 925 1,0" (),v, CITY. $ 2,9)7 4,010 4, 924 4,175 5,3333 5,809 5,495 5, 646 7,6'75 5,647 7,253 8,163 9,714 SCHOOL. $ 1,992. 1,997 2,144 1,759. 2,, 232 2, 893 2,431 3,490 3,127 3,292 4,1693 4,734 5,408 YEAR. 1872...... 1878...... 1879...... 1880...... 1881...... 1881...... 1883...... 1884...... 1885..... 1886...... 1 87...... 1888...... 1889...... SLATE. COUNTY. $?921 1,557 2,175 1,530 1,810 1, 664 1 2,471 1,555 3, 065 2,464 4,306( 3,2`)25 4,235 $ 1,134 3,373 3,6(46 3, 054 3,093 3, 20)9 3,084 1,819 1,954 2,73) 3,378' 3,225 2, 672 i) ( X* CITY. $ 4,551 9,814 11,74) 10,873 13,335 15, 6387 16, 326; 16, (648 24,30)7 16,835 2I2,038 24,128 28,824 SCHOOL. $ 3 822 4,887 4,479 4,5.81 4,918 (,371 7,213 8,8719 8,427 9,815 12;),66 15'),503 1 5, 106 I I I - STREET, SEWER AND WATER WORKS EXPENSES FOR TWELVE YEARS. WATER WATER YEAR. STREETS. SEWERS. W R YEAR. STREETS. SEWERS.R. S. WORKS. WORKS. 1878................ $15,063 $ 4,048 $ 5,563 1884............... 61,74 28 $ 10,381 1879................ 17,478 59 10,965 1885............... 72,603 87,377 7,717 1880................ 9,078 11, 566 2706 1886............... 40,()20 15,970 2),4-)8 1881................ 34,926 14,965 16,678 1887............... 112,230 17,640 18,100( 1882................ 5(6,705 45,355 2 345 188............... 9,506 22,464 33,011 1883................ 22,871 9,30 13,191 889............... 82,200 32,830 )97,038 *The fiscal year ends April 30. The figures given for 188!) cover only that portion of the fiscal year between May 18, a8, and January 1, 1889. INTERNAL REVENUE RECEIPTS, FOURTH DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN, OFFICE AT GRAND RAPIDS-1863 TO 1889) INCLUSIVE. 1863'...$ 31,513 00 1861... $180,738 11 1875...$ 97,651 76 1881...$137,251 82 1887...$211,025 17 1864... 64,856 59 1870... 166,5)5 6) 1876... 108,977 9)0 1882.... 164,57(i 96 1888... 207,511 2! 1865... 136,597 63 1871... 116,810 48 71877 5... 22 32 1883.... 169,912 55 188... 210,35 44 1866... 216,088 29 1872... 114,785 34 1878... 1)8,822 73 1884.... 170,283 1)5................ 1867... 190,662 18 1873... 9)4,569 34 187(.... 111,128 68 1885.... 171,690 9)6...........*. 1868... 197,188 80 1874... 90,644 87 1880... 131,769 28 1886.... 192,111 35... FIRE LOSSES-ADDENDUM. 793 LOSSES BY FIRE-EIGHTEEN YEARS. l Sept. 15, 1871 15, 1872 15, 1873 15, 1.874 15, 1875 15, 1876. 15, 1877 115, 1878 " 15, 1879 to Sept.. I I I 4, cI ItI 15, 15, 15, 15, 15, 15, 15, 15, 15, 1872......... $187,235 1873.......... 421,145 1874.......... 120,950 1875.......... 353,400 1876........ 80,000 1877.......... 17,710 1878........ 31,852 1879......... 35,573 1880.......... 16 2,254 Sept.,6 II it I. May I I i I I ( 15, 1880 15, 1881 15, 1882 15, 1883 15, 1884 1, 1885 1, 1886 1, 1887 1, 1888 to Sept.. I I I to May c I c I I c cI 15, 15, 15, 15, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1881..........$ 25,714 1882......... 169,739 1883........ 77,581 1884.......... 101,327 1885........ 19,798 1886........ 75,747 1887.......... 58,148 188.......... 238,470 1889......... 14,042 I These are estimates made from year to year by the officers of the Fire Department, and compiled from records kept by them. ADDENDUM. The making of history more than keeps pace with its writing. Since the printing of the foregoing pages, long steps have been taken in the progress of the rapidly growing city of Grand Rapids, only a few of which can be noticed. The Kent County Agricultural Society has sold its fair grounds by the south line of the city, for about $70o,ooo, to Joseph Houseman, who has platted it into city lots. The society has purchased new ground, upward of Ioo acres, about two miles further south, and the work of fitting them up has begun. Street railway extension to the ground is also in progress. The North Park Street Railway has been in full operation, by steam motor, during the summer of I89o. At its northern terminus a fine "pavilion" is erected, a resort for picnic parties, for pleasure and recreation, as inviting as any in the State. It stands at the east end of the bridge across Grand River. The Reeds Lake Electric Railway in the latter part of the summer of I890 began running cars by electric power. The Valley City Street and Cable Railway Company, in the latter part of October, I890, purchased the plant and franchise of the Street Railway Company of Grand Rapids, and thus the entire street railway system in the city passes under one control. The transfer was made October 25. The two companies by name still exist, with a common ownership. Preparations are going forward to change from horse power to electric propulsion on the greater part of the Street Railway Company lines. A marked advance in the improvement of business streets is made. Canal street from Pearl to Bridge, in the early part of the summer of I89o, was ordered paved with asphalt. This work is progressing, and asphalt paving began October 25, in that part between Lyon and Bridge streets. ERRATA. Page 21, column i, line Io; for Julius, read Jules. Page 48, col. 2, line 17; for New York, read Detroit. Page 58, col. i, line 2 from bottom; for Campau, read Marsac. Page ioi, col. i, line 22; for 1834, read 1832. Page 118, col. 2, line 4; for William, read Willard. Page I20, col. 2, second paragraph; for Jan. io read Jan. 5, and for Nov. 6 read Nov. i6. Page I47, last line; for A. B. Sinclair, read A. P. Sinclair. Page i68, first line; for Simon, read Simeon. Page 175, col. I, line 24; for Daniel Worth, read Daniel North. Page I97, col. i, line 30; for Phobe, read Phoebe. Page 216, col. 2, line i8 from bottom; for J. W. Barnett, read J. M. Barnett. Page 220, col. I, near bottom-a pretty romance, perhaps, but not the fact, as appears later in the book. Mr. Walker did not marry Celestia, but Mary Hinsdill. Celestia is yet living, a maiden lady, 74 years of age. Hinsdill and Hinsdale are different spellings of the same name by different branches of the family. A similar remark will apply to the Rathbuns and Rathbones; they are branches of one family. Page 227, col. 2, line 6; for Omako, read Omaha. Page 230, col. 2, line 24 from bottom; for Junius H. H. Hatch, read Junius H. Hatch. Page 232, col. 2, line 23; for H. S. Ellsworth, read H. L.,Ellsworth. Page 255, col. 2, line 22 from bottom; for Baar, read Barr. Page 256, col. 2, line 28; for Barclay, read Barker. Page 268, col. I, line I9 from bottom; for It objects, read Its objects. Page 276, col. 2, line 6 from bottom; for Merriman, read Merriam. Page 277, col. 2, line 4; for Pulmonaris, read Pulmonalis. Page 363, col. i, line 23; for L. V., read L. B. Page 401, col. 2, line 25; for Rathbone, read Rathburn. Page 452, col. I, line 23 from bottom; for Luman read Alanson-Luman Powers was a blacksmith. Page 460, col. 2, line 20; for Wexford, read Manistee. Page 460, col. 2, line 29; for daughter, read son. Page 556, col. 2, line 9 from bottom; for George P. Calder, read John P. Calder. Page 599, col. 2, line 9 from bottom; for 1867, read 1870. Page 623, col. 2, line 15 from bottom; for Mary A. Hinsdill, read Mary Hinsdill. Page 623, last line and wherever the same name appears; for Marian, read Marion. Page 732, col. I, line 6; for Benjamin Graves, read Benjamin F. Graves. Page 737, col. I, line 22; for Walsh, read Walch. Page 746, col. 2, line 25 from bottom; for Halmer E. Emmons, read Halmer H. Emmons. Page 748, col. 2, lines 8 and I3; for Swain, read Swayne. Page 75I, col. I, line 5; for I. S. Turner, read I. M. Turner. Page 755, col. i, line Io from bottom; for Lawrence, read Laurens. Page 757, in list of lawyers; for Howell, Charles G., read Howell, Charles C. APPENDIX. HISTORY OF LOWELL, KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN-TOWNSHIP AND VILLAGE. PREFATORY REMARKS. THE attachment to this volume of a brief history of Lowell was not at first contemplated. It is an afterthought. Hence, on account of the comparatively short time allowed for its preparation, it may be less elaborate and comprehensive than would be desirable. The writer and compiler has labored against serious discouragements, besides the haste imposed by the attending circumstances. Nevertheless he indulges the hope that in general correctness and otherwise it will prove valuable as well as interesting. The aim has been to gather and collate the substantial facts from the best accessible sources of personal knowledge, of tradition and of record. The writer sets up no claim to superiority; only to an honest endeavor to present fairly the facts, as near as they could be gained. The.frailty of memory and differences in the recollections of different persons undoubtedly may have prevented entire exactness. It is here proper to acknowledge and return thanks for valuable aid in the work-to Town Clerk F. D. Eddy, Village Recorder John Q. Look, Village President Charles McCarty and Postmaster J. M. Mathewson, also to L. J. Post, N. P. Husted, William Proctor, Mrs. F. D. Stocking, and others, for courtesies shown and information freely imparted. And especially is most grateful acknowledginent made to the Hon. Milton M. Perry for generous and painstaking effort in an important part of the work. Though hastily written and doubtless imperfect, in tile hope 80 that it will not prove a useless contribution to history, this brief sketch is respectfully submitted. AI BERTI BAX TER. SITUATION AND TOPOGRAPHY. Lowell is one of the eastern tier of the townships of Kent county. In the description by United States survey it is Town 6 North, of Range 9 West. It is bounded on the north by Vergennes township, east by Boston (Ionia county), south by Bowne and west by Cascade. Grand River traverses the town from east to west near the south line of the north tier of sections. Flat River enters Grand River from the north about a mile and one-third below the east town line. A pretty spring creek, some three or four miles in length, comes into Grand River on the north side, about half a mile below the mouth of Flat River. On the south side are a few rivulets entering the river from sources among and beyond the bluffs toward the center of the town. The bottoms of the river valley average near a mile in width, and were originally thickly covered with elm, ash, soft maple and other timber indigenous to low, marshy or moist lands in this region. The soil is productive, and under improvement has been transformed into fine farms, meadows and gardens. The southern two-thirds of the township has a rolling surface and an elevation of perhaps one hundred feet or more above the river level. Half a dozen lakes and several swamps contribute to the diversity of the surface. Of the lakes or ponds, Pratt Lake on Section 25 is the largest, having an area of some 300 acres. Its outlet is a small brook, toward the Thornapple River. McEwen Lake, on Section 32, is next in size, long and narrow and 798 HISTORY OF LOWELL, KENT COUNTY. saddlebag shaped, and bordered by marshy or swampy ground, covering about oneeighth of the section, or a little more. In its primitive state the swampy grounds in the aggregate comprised a considerable share of the township area; but these have been mostly improved and converted into good farm property by judicious drainage and cultivation. Good springs are not very numerous on the elevated plateau of this southern portion; but good water for domestic use is procured by sinking wells to a depth of fifty feet or more. The timber in this part was originally oak, hard maple, beech, basswood, some black walnut along the east side, and in some tracts had a heavy growth. Generally, the soil in the township is excellent for farm uses and a large variety of crops. Among cultivated fruits the apple is the most thrifty. A brief description of the physical geography of this township, as given from his survey notes of about I842-43 by the late John Ball of Grand Rapids, appears on pages 12 and 13 of the History of the City of Grand Rapids, in this volume. THE INDIAN OCCUPANTS. As to the Indian history prior to the coming in of white men, little is known. By the mouth of Flat River, or near it, was a little village collection, the headquarters of a few hundred Indians, whose chief was Cob-mo-sa (in English, "The Walker"). This chief should have been a good Mormon -he had several wives; some authorities say three and others say six. He was short and thick in stature, yet a shrewd chief, though after white men came he became a drunkard and a vagrant. The head chief of the Flat River clans was,'Long Nose," or Ke-wi-quash-cum, who incurred the enmity of his people by signing the treaty which ceded away their lands, and he was killed by one of them. Among them came as a trader, some years previous to 1821, Madame Laframboise, a French woman, and some remains of the foundation of her trading house are said to be still preserved. Rix Robinson, when he came to the mouth of the Thornapple River in I821, purchased her stock, including the servants or attendants about her. Daniel Marsac came to Lowell for traffic with the Indians in I829, and in I831 built himself a log hut on the south side of Grand River, near where the railroad station now is. But within ten years after the white settlenent began there were very few of the natives left to tell the legendary story of their race. S ETTLE MEN' '. In 1835 and I836 several white settlers began making homes within the present limits of Lowell township, most of them near by or at the present site of the village. Luther Lincoln, previously at Grand Rap. ids, was one of them; among the others were Lucas, Lewis and Rodney Robinson, and Philander Tracy. The Robinsons remained as permanent settlers; Lincoln went up Flat River, and Tracy afterward removed to Grand Rapids. In 1837 half a dozen families came and settled along the north side of Grand River, below Flat River. In that year a school was established, then the only one between Ionia and Grand Rapids, and in January, I839, Caleb Page married the first teacher, Caroline Beard, in the log school house. Sylvester Hodges and Alva Jones were also among the settlers of I836. The land taken by Luther Lincoln, and also some land occupied by Lewis Robinson and Philander Tracy, part of which is now in the village, were found to be in the "University Grant." The Indians also sought to hold some portion of it which they had been tilling, but the Government decided that they could not hold lands in their own names, so long as they remained in allegiance to their tribe. There, near the right bank of Flat River, Sylvester Hodges set the first apple trees. In 1837 were many new comers. Among them Charles Newton, Matthew Patrick, Samuel P. Rolf, Joseph B. Daniels, Thompson I. Daniels, George Brown, William Van Deusen, Ira A. Danes, Jacob Francisco, and perhaps ten or dozen more within the township. Those who first settled north of Grand River, took up land before it was surveyed and regularly in the market. The settlement at that time extended along the north bank of the river on the old Grand River road from two to five miles west of Flat River. This road came from Ionia by way of Fallassburg, where that river was first bridged in I840, striking Grand River about two miles below Flat River, thence passing down the river bottoms near the bluffs. Lands north of the river were put in the market in August, I839. ~:::~ i 111 uluiUU#n ~r ---19RI llmnNnanlMa\\\\\\; c~: q:h~;:r irigs r I 'I sssBIRRRBBBBmWRW;Z,li::I~ ~-: ~: - ~,;I j7aa 5 i ~:u i ~: I.~ —~ - 61 ~ c ---r,~~ t a.:~ 4 - — Laaanu,; A i I i:':: 'ii:iill;:lii!lilllllili!lllllliiliilNii r Il~YPsaRRRRR8:::~. ii:iil:a VR I I!ii;i P i: 'i~ " SETTLEMENT-WILLIAM PROCTOR-L. J. POST. 799 Settlement on the south side of Grand River was begun in 1842 by George Post, on Section 23, and between that time and 1850, the families of Peter Hornbrook, Charles Gordon, Harrison Wickham, George Monk, W. H. Montague, and several others were improving farms in that part of the township. Abel Avery, then of Ionia, in I850, bought of Daniel Marsac the original Luther Lincoln claim, which had been platted by Marsac in I848 and named Dansville. Cyprian S. Hooker came into the town in 1846, began a house on the eighteenth day of December and moved into it on Christmas day following. This was the first framed house in the township. Mr. Hooker subsequently had a pleasant place among the bluffs south of the river. where he resided until his death, which occurred in I88I. He was born at Thompson, Windham county, Conn., Oct. 7, I796. Mrs. Hooker died Aug. 29, I890. William Proctor and family settled on Section 27 in I853, and there improved a very large farm. Leander J. Post came with his parents five years later, and has another finely improved farm a little northeast of Mr. Proctor. WILLIAM PROCTOR was born in the parish of Ingleton, county of York, England, November 20, i808. He received a fair education in the common branches at private schools. In his native country he was a farmer and was fairly successful in his occupation. In I853 he came with his family to Michigan. Here he bought a farm of 320 acres on Section 27 in Lowell township. It was then in the wildwood state, some of it heavily timbered, with no good roads and with everything pertaining to improvement yet to be worked out by patient labor. That place is still his farm and home, in a good state of cultivation; well stocked, and supplied with most kinds of fruit. He has thereon a substantial brick house, and all needed farm buildings and appliances for use and comfort. Himself and family have been industrious and economical, and he has the enjoyment of being in easy circumstances'as regards property in the evening of life; and is in the midst of a pleasant community well supplied with schools and church privileges, and other advantages of this progressive period of modern civilization. Mr. Proctor married, May 7, I83I, Cathrine Graham, in the Parish of Bentham, county of York, England. She died at their home in Lowell, November 4, J887, and a neat monument erected by him marks her resting place in the neighboring cemetery. They had five children, three sons and two daughters, of whom three are yet living at and near by the old homestead, namely: William Jr., Sarah (now Mrs. William Graham), and Henry. Mr. and Mrs. Proctor belonged to the Episcopalian Church-there is at present no church edifice of that denomination near him. Politically he is a stanch Republican and a firm believer in tariff protection. In thought, speech and action he is independent, has had no official ambitions, and enjoys as an upright citizen the esteem of his community. LEANDER J. POST was born September 6, I846, at Westbrook, Connecticut. His parents were of English descent; his father a native of Connecticut and his mother of Rhode Island. His educational privileges were those of the common schools and Lowell High School. The family came to Lowell in October, i858, and settled upon the farm where the subject of this sketch still resides. His life occupation is that of a farmer, and he owns 230 acres of land on sections 14 and 23 in that township, in a good state of improvement, with substantial homestead buildings. Lt is known as Spring Hill Farm. He is an enthusiastic agriculturist and fruit raiser; has for many years given especial attention to the raising of potatoes with much success, his crop of that esculent amounting to some thousands of bushels annually. He has a wide acquaintance with prominent agriculturists in the State; is well informed upon all that pertains to their profession, and one who aims to keep abreast with the age in scientific farm culture. Mr. Post married, at Lowell, September 9, i868, Ella Calista Carter, who was born at Savannah, N. Y., August 20, I85o, and came to Lowell in I855. They have four children-Zeno H., born July 4, 1869; Wilber E., born March 20, I877; Audie E., born October 8, 1878, and Otice C., born November IO, I883. Mr. and Mrs. Post are adherents of the Baptist Church in religious faith, and Mr. Post has many years been Sunday School Superintendent. Politically, Mr. Post, as between the main par so() HISTORY OF LOWELL, KENT COUNTY. ties, is a stanch Republican, and on the liquor question inclines in sentiment to prohihition. He is a stirring, energetic, public-spirited citizen, whose nature it is to be busily employed. He was one of the census enumerators of 1890, and is a member of the Board of Review of his to, nship. Lowell was first organized as a township with Vergennes in 1838, the two constituting one town under the name of Vergennes, until ten years later. During that time however the settlement at the mouth of Flat River maintained its social autonomy. Lowell township was organized and its first election held in April, 1848, at the house of Timothy White. At this election, among other things, it was voted that $1oo be raised for the incidental township expenses of the ensuing year, that $245 be raised toward building a bridge across Grand River near Flat River, and that fifty cents per scholar be raised in the town for the support of public schools. The township officers from the time of organization down to the present are given below. TOWNSHIP OFFICERS. [See list of Supervisors in the History of Grand Rapids, page 388-this book.] Clerks-Timothy White, 1848; H. B. Upham, 1849-50; G. K. White, 1851-52; A. H. King, 1853; J. S. Hooker, 1854; G. K. White, i855; E. J. Booth, 1856; Thomas Daniels, 1857-60; J. E. Chapin, 1861-62: T. J. Slayton, 1865-66; John Huggins, 1867-70; Otto C. McDonnell, 187I; James H. Weeks, 1872; John Wingler, 1873; James H.Weeks, I875-77; Olney B. Fuller, 1878-79; Edgar E. Wisner,i88o; Dayton M. Church, i881; Fred B. Hine, 1882; Robert G. Bostwick, 1883-85; Franklin D. Eddy, 1886-90. Treasurers-Henry Church, 1848; Ira A. Danes, 1849-5I; John Brannan, 1852; Benjamin Morse, 1853; Charles Gordon, I854; N. W. Tyler, 1855; Cyrus Hunt, i856; N. A. Jones, 1857; Myron Severy, 1858-59; Joseph Wilson, 1860-62; Clark M. Devendorf, 1865-66; Milton M. Perry, I86.7-68; Webster Morris, 1869-70; \Wm. R. Perry, I871-72; Charles T. Wooding, 1873-74; M. C. Walker, 1875-77; Henry Mitchell, 1878; M. C. Walker, 1879; Fred. B. Hine, i880; Henry Mitchell, 1881; Augustus W.Weekes, 1882; Henry Mitchell, 1883; John D. Yeiter, 1884; Andrew J. Howk, 1885, G. W. Schneider, 1886; Dexter G. Look, 1887-88; Willard S. Winegar, 1889-90. Justices of the Peace-Cyprian S. Hooker, Daniel McEwen, S. P. Rolf, Ira A. Danes, 1848; George R. Upham, 1849; C. S. Hooker, 1850; Daniel McEwen, W. H. Montague, 1851; Philander Palmeter, 1852; Ira A. Danes, C. S. Green, 1853; C. S. Hooker, 1854; Charles Gordon, 1854-55; Philander Palmeter, 1856; Jacob Snell, 1857; Robert Hunter, 1858; Charles Gordon, 1859; Clark L. Bonnell, I860; J. B. Balcom, i861; Robert Hunter, 1862; J. B. Balcom, i865; Clark L. Bennett, 1866; C. G. Merriman, Charles Gordon, 1867; Mil ton M. Perry, P. Hornbrook, 1868; Matthew Hunter, T. J. Slayton, 1869; Robert Hunter, Jr., Simeon Hunt, 1870; Charles Gordon, 1871; Robert Hunter, Jr., 1872; Matthew Hunter, I872-73; Peter Hornbrook, 1873; Robert Hunter, Jr., Milton M. Perry, Charles H. Leslie, James Brannan, 1874; 'David H. Denise, 1875; James H. Weeks, D. H. Denise, 1876; Milton M. Perry, James Brannan, 1877; Robert W. Graham, Charles Stoughton, 1878; Robert Hunter, Jr., 1879; James H. Weeks, 1880; Milton M. Perry, I88i; Joseph Graham, S. Brower, 1882; Robert Hunter, Jr., Harmon Nash, 1883; Joseph Graham, 1884; Milton M. Perry, 1885; Harmon Nash, I886; Robert Hunter, Jr., I887; James Brannan, Joseph Kinyon, 1888; Milton M. Perry, 1889; James Brannan (failed to qualify), 169o. Constables-Henry W. Booth, Heman E. Hogan, Melvin C. Walker, Wm. G. Hunter, 1875; H. W. Booth, M. C. Walker, H. E. Hogan, Henry L. Gould, 1876; D. W. Calkins, H. E. Hogan, Frank White, Charles Blass, 1877; C. Blass, O. M. Coats, E. E. Church, C. D. Hodges, 1878; A. B. Blake, C. O. Hill, M. C. Walker, O. M. Coats, 1879; 0. M. Coats, C. O. Hill, J. Merriman, M. C. Walker, 1880; Wm. Edie, C. O. Hill, J. C. T. Mueller, O. M. Coats, 1881; C. O. Hill, A. C. Morgan, O. M. Coats, C. Blass, 1882; A. C. Morgan, C. 0. Hill, Edson O'Harrow, C. Blass, 1883; A. C. Morgan, C. Blass, W. H. Graham, G. W. Davis, 1884; C. Blass, G. W. Davis, C. O. Hill, A. C. Morgan, 1885; C. Blass, S. F. Edmonds, A. C. Morgan, G. W. Davis, 1886; J. C. T. Mueller, A. B. Ransford, A. C. Morgan, E. O'Harrow, I887; I .: B[PBBBBBBs:::\ Ir4app88Weppp::i:i - Icaaaaa PRwwilaRlaR':i::; I::i:.:,~i~ ::: a.P I;;`; d-$ ""?"-" It ~~"~~~~"""'~"~""`""""""~~\; c.g:: `~ i;!.% ~~ ~ — i;; -i' Sii w 1;~:~:i': -~:s, \' ~ s~:-: TOWNSHII' OFFICERS-AGRIC(ILTURAL-FRUIT CULTIURE-M. LYON. 8(01 Daniel LeClear, H. WV. Booth, W. D. Chatterdon, Henry Lampman, 1888; D. LeClear, H. W. Booth, W. D. Chatterdon, C. O. Hill, 1889; C. O. Hill, H. WV. Booth, C. I.. Blakeslee, Fred. W. Winegar, 1890. School Inspectors-Sessions P. Curtiss, I875-76; Wm. M. Chapman, 1877; Fred. H. Hosford, I878; W. M. Chapman, 1879; L. H. Merriman, i88o; Sylvester P. Hicks, I88I; S. P. Curtiss, Frank King, 1882; Fred. B. Hine, 1883; Charles R. Hine, 1884; S. P. Curtiss, 1885; W'. M. Chapman, i886; Ernest L. Curtiss, 1887; J. D. Ellinwood, 1I888; Albert S. Houghton, 1889; Matie E. Headworth, appointed in 1889, elected in I890. Highway Commissioners - Charles H. Leslie, 1875; David H. Denise, I876-77; Elias D. Parker, I878-79; C. 0. Hill, i880 -82; George H. Cahoon, 1883; F. O. Taft, 1884-85; C. 0. Hill, I886-89; Wm. H. Murphy, 1890. Drain Comnissioners —Charles B. Carter, 1875-77; Jeremiah Lusk, I878-79; Joseph Kinyon, 1880-8I; John Yeiter, 1882; Joseph Graham, 1884-87; Adam F. Behler, I888; Henry Lampman, 1889; E. L. Curtiss, 1890. Members of Board of Review-Robert Hunter, Jr., (one year), Leander J. Post (two years), I890. AGRICULTURAl,. The State census reports of 1874 and 1884 show the following items in respect to farming and gardening in the township of Lowell. including the village. Comparisons are left to the reader: Census of I874-Population, 2,876; area of taxable land, 21,40I acres; number of farms, 262; number of acres in farms, 19,300. Farms products in I873: Bushels of wheat, 31,515; bushels of corn, 23,905; bushels of other grain, i8,237; bushels of potatoes, 9,776; tons of hay, 1,759; pounds of wool, 9,I54; pounds of pork marketed, 37,626; pounds of butter made, 48,065. Pounds of maple sugar (1874), 5,550. Value of garden vegetables and fruit (I873),$3,05o. Number of horses one year old and over, 337; oxen, 72; milch cows, 450; other neat cattle, 432; swine, 526; sheep, 2,156. Census of I884-Total population, 3,272; number of persons of school age (5 to 20), 1,026; foreign born, 473. Number of farms, 239; land in farms, 18,200 acres. Farm products in 1883: Bushels of wheat, 34,776; bushels of corn, i6,130; bushels of other grain, I7,499; bushels of potatoes, I2,727; tons of hay, 2,686; apples, bushels, 6,459; value of orchard products, $II,338; value of forest, products sold, $9,949; number of horses, 686; cows, 522; other cattle, 481; sheep, 3,178; swine, 1,100; butter, pounds, 64,755; wool, pounds, 14,33I. FRUIT' CUILT'URE.. The fruit business of Lowell and vicinity, although in its infancy, has made a wonderful growth. Noah P. Husted and James D. Husted commenced planting nursery stock in 1862, on section 20 of Lowell, by putting out 40,000 apple trees and 40,000 peach trees, and increased their planting each year for several years, which undertaking stimulated the growing of fruit. The soil in and around Lowell is unsurpassed for tree culture and fruit growing. There were shipped from this point during the year 1889, 40,000 barrels of apples, at at average price of $.50 per barrel, and $I5,ooo worth of peaches. Within a radius of ten miles there are eighteen fruit evaporators which shipped about $55,000 worth of evaporated fruit. There were shipped nearly $I,500 worth of sun-dried fruit. Of pears, plums, cherries, berries, grapes and quinces, the estimated shipments will not fall short of $0o,ooo. Lowell, between ten and twenty years ago, stood for a number of years third in the amount of shipments of agricultural products on the whole line of the Detroit, Grand Haven and Milwaukee Railway. MORGAN LYON, a prosperous farmer of Vergennes, Kent county, Mich., was born at Norwich, Chenango county, N. Y., October i6, i8Io. His father, Thomas Lyon, was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and also in the War of I812. When he was young, the family were. poor, struggling with farm life and pioneer privations in a newly and thinly settled region. His early education was only such as could be gained in country district schools of that period. In 1836, looking forward for a chance of bettering his prospects, he emigrated to Howell, Livingston county, Michigan, where he settled upon a farm of I60 acres. A year or two later he sold that and moved again, into the almost unbroken wilderness of Vergennes, where he entered, in so"0 HISTORY OF LOWELL, KENT COUNTY. June, 1838, upon I60 acres of land on Section 20 of that township, where he made his home and still resides. He engaged with vigor and strong courage in its improvement, and with such success that it is now one of the finest and most valuable farms in that vicinity. Moreover he has been able to add to his real estate possessions; to the home farm till it contains 270 acres, and east and west until he owns in all 5 o acres. His homestead residence is a large, square, two-story wood house nicely finished and furnished; and his barns and other accompanying buildings are capacious and in keeping with the needs of such an estate. He raises some fruit, but his staple products are grain, potatoes, and the whole range of farm crops. The soil is good, and intelligent cultivation renders it handsomely productive. On two of his smaller farms, also, he has good buildings and other furnishings. He has been a thriving farmer, and successful beyond the average of agriculturists. Besides his country property, he owns in Lowell village one-half the fine brick block of eight store fronts, called the Lyon Block, and one store in Union Block across the way, on Main street. Hence, in the evening of life, at four-score years, he is comfortably and pleasantly situated. Mr. Lyon married in January, 1835, Mary Purple, at Norwich, his native town, who with him shared the labors and privations incident to building up a home in a new country. She died in August, I849. They had three children, of whom the eldest, Matilda Lyon, is deceased. The other two were James and Emily-the former now a resident of Grand Rapids Mr. Lyon again married, in i850, at Norwich, Louisa Purple, sister of his first wife, still his companion in life. They have one daughter, Mary, now the wife of Omar Q. Adams, living near the family homestead in Vergennes. About I865 Mr. Lyon moved to the village of Lowell, and lived there some three years, but meantime retained his farm, to which he returned. He does not belong to any church organization. In politics he has acted with the Democratic party, except for the time when the Greenback party had a distinct organization. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. In his town he has held the offices of Justice of the Peace and Supervisor. DANIEL C. McVEAN was born in Monroe county, N. Y., August 19, I819. His father, David McVean, was a native of Scotland, belonging to a clan somewhat illustrious in Scotch history; came to this country in early life and settled in the county where the subject of this sketch was born. In 1846 Daniel C. McVean settled in the township of Bowne, Kent county, Mich., and is remembered as among its able and useful citizens. He followed surveying several years, in addition to the work of carrying on and improving his farm, and held a number of town offices. In 1854 he was chosen Supervisor and to that position was re-elected, in i855 and I856. In I856 he was elected Treasurer of Kent county, and this office he held at the time of his death, which occurred in Grand Rapids, October 28, I857. Mr. McVean married, March 16, 1840, Lucy Skidmore, of Alexandria, Genesee county, N., Y., who yet survives and resides on the old homestead, a mile square of land at the corner of sections three, four, nine and ten, in,Bowne, half a mile south of the Lowell town line. Of seven children, the eldest was twelve years old when the father died; the youngest was born after his death. The names of the children are: David E. McVean, Daniel H. McVean and Donald S. McVean —three sons; and Maggie L. McVean, C. F. McVean (now Mrs. Thompson), Mary D. McVean and L. A. McVean-four daughters. Two of the sons reside in Grand Rapids; the youngest, D. S., is with his mother at the old homestead. Mrs. McVean, now seventy-three years of age, as a farm manager has beel very successful. The place is productive and well stocked, and the family have a comfortable, pleasant and well furnished rural home. Mr. McVean in his life was highly esteemed as an honorable, upright citizen and conscientious public officer. LOWEILL VILLAGE. The first village platting was done for Daniel Marsac in I848, who named the ?:~\ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ^ ^.6,, /^ n^G~;^ I Z *#L U LOWELL VILLAGE-VILLAGE OFFICERS-CHARLES McCARTY. place Dansville; but as an incorporation it was not fully organized until I86I. In I854 it was platted with the same name by Abel Avery, as the record shows. February 4, 1857, by legislative act the name was changed to Lowell. An act to legalize an incorporation previously made by the Supervisors was passed in I859. It was incorporated anew in March, i861, and under this authority the first charter election was held. The charter has been several times amended. The amendments may be found in Session Laws of 1865, page 276; I869, volume 3, page 1,676; and, in Local Acts,.875, page 573; I885, page 443, and 1887, page 70I. Several additions to the original plat had been made prior to the final incorporation of the village. In 1850 Abel Avery purchased the Marsac plat, and he added some territory, making upward of o00 acres on the east side of Flat River. In 1854 Wickham & Richards platted 93 icres on the west side. In July, I868, Fox's addition of 52 acres, north of Wickham & Richards', was surveyed. Peter Lee's addition, north of Avery's, 48 acres, was platted in March, I870. In the same year were platted Snell's addition, 50 acres, and the Ellsworth plat of 60 acres, of which 20 acres was within the village limits and the rest in the town of Vergennes. In 1863 a plat was made on the south side of the river, on the line of the railroad, which was called Segwun. In April, 1869, under the authority of a legislative act, a re-survey of the village was made, by direction of the Village Board. VIL,,AGE OFFICERS. Presidents ---Cyprian S. Hooker, I861-64; Arvine Beck, 1865-68; Morris R. Blodgett, I869-71; John C. Scott, 1872; Chester G. Stone, 1873-77; Arvine Beck, I878-79; Milton C. Barber, i880-8i; Sidney C. Bradfield, 1882-85; Chester G. Stone, i886-88; Francis King, 1889; Charles McCarty, I89o. Recorders-C. A. Blake, 1861-63; M. N. Hine, 1864; Francis King, I865-68; John Huggins, 1869-72; James H. Weeks, 1873 -o80; Eugene A. Sunderlin, 1881-88; John Q. Look, 1889-90. Trustees-W. W. Hatch, J. B. Shear and Arvine Peck, I86I; A., H. King, i862; C. R. Hine, 1863; E. R. Craw, 1864; Robert Hunter, 1865; S. Brower, i866; E. W. Avery, 1867; Simeon Hunt, i868; John C. Scott and Lucien B. Lull, 1869; Simeon Hunt, I870; Lucien B. Lull, I871; S. Hunt, I872; E. R. Craw, 1873; Milton M. Perry, I874; William Pullen, 1875; Edwin R. Craw,. I876; Robert W. Graham, I877; Jarvis C. Train, 1878; Francis D. Adams, 1879; Robert W. Graham, i880; Jarvis C. Train, I88I; Francis King, I872; Robert W. Graham, 1883; Fred D. Hine, 1884; Francis King, I885; John Q. Look and A. W. Weekes, I886; John Q. Look, I887; A. J. Howk, i888; 0. C. McDannell, A.W. Weekes, 1889, Charles Althen, 1890. Treasurers-Simeon Hunt, I861-63; U. B. Williams, 1864; Clark M. Devendorf, 1865-67; Wm. Pullen, 1878; Charles T; Wooding, I879-8I; John Wingler, 1882; Martin N. Hine, 1883-89; Andrew B. Johnson, 890. Assessors-Cyrus Hunt, I861-64; Almon M. Elsworth, 1865-69; Robert Hunter, Jr., 1870; Edmund Lee, I87I; Simeon Hunt, I872; Robert Hunter, Jr., 1873-77; Almon M. Elsworth, 1878; Milton M. Perry, I879 -8i; Jarvis C. Train, 1882; Charles R. Hine, I883; Chandler Johnson, 1884-87; Sylvester Brower, i888; Chandler Johnson, 1889; Sylvester Brower, I890. Marshals —J. Chapman, 1861; W. J. Medler, 1862; Robert Marshall, I863-64; John Wilson, I865; Robert Marshall, 1866-67; E. R. Huxley, i868; George W. Lane, 1869; Robert Marshall, 1870; Cyrenus C. Sayles, 1871; James B. Sprague, 1872; Robert Marshall, 1873; Charles Blass, I874; Robert Marshall, 1875; Henry W. Booth, 1876; John Calkins, 1877-78; Robert Marshall, 1879-81; Milton C. Barber, 1882-83; Henry Mitchell, 1884; Albert D. Ransford, I885; Samuel F. Edmonds, I886-90. Postmasters at Lowell have been: Philander Tracy, Rodney Robinson, (appointed in 1848), George White, Cyprian S. Hooker, I. N. White, C. M. Devendorf, Daniel Driscoll, A. M. Elsworth, J. W. Hine, M. M. Perry, and J. M. Mathewson, the latter being the present incumbent. CHARLES McCARTY was born in Canada in I846. When he was three years of age his parents settled in the township Df Keene, Ionia county, Michigan. His boyhood was passed with them until the age of fourteen years, when the aspiring young lad left the home of his childhood to carve out his fortune and shape his future course 804 HISTORY OF LOWELL, KENT COUNTY. by his own pluck and energy. At seventeen years of age he enlisted in the army, and continued in the military service until the close of the war. He was with Gen. Sherman in the famous march "from Atlanta to the sea." Later he was engaged in the employment of his brother in the village of Lowell, as a grocery clerk, at the meager salary of $8 per month. Proving faithful and efficient, his -wages were advanced accordingly, and by habits of economy and frugality at the end of twelve years his savings were enough to purchase a half interest in his brother's business. Six weeks later his brother died, and he purchased the remaining interest for $2,400; his standing and credit being such that he was able to hire the money on his own paper. His business prospered, and from the profits he was enabled to discharge his obligations promptly. At the age of twenty-three he married Alice Sayles, daughter of Chapin C. Sayles, a pioneer of Keene, who is yet living at the ripe age of 78 years, and in good health, on the farm which he reclaimed from the wilderness-the father of fifteen children and grandparent of forty-three children. Six children have blessed the home of Charles McCarty, four boys and two girls-Willie McCarty, Bertha A. McCarty, Bessie M. McCarty, Leon J. McCarty, Dean McCarty and Paul S. McCarty; the eldest now sixteen and the youngest four years of age. In 1879 Mr. McCarty joined the Blue Lodge; was made a Sir Knight Templar in 1887, and an Odd Fellow in i888. He is at this writing a Director and Treasurer of the Lowell Agricultural Fair Association, and also President of the Village of Lowell. At the age of forty-four years, he is held in high esteem as an energetic, enterprising, public-spirited man and citizen, and is sole proprietor of one of the largest wholesale and retail grocery, fruit and farm-produce stores in the village. Of affable and pleasing address, and genial disposition, aiming to live and let live, he enjoys the good will of all with whom he comes in contact. From small beginnings his extensive business has grown, through untiring industry and strict integrity, and though hardly yet in his prime he is recognized as among the solid men and leading merchants. A charming wife and an interesting family render his a happy home. His religion is of the practical, every-day sort; rendering him always ready to lend a helping hand to the unfortunate, and to look upon the brightest side of life. Success has crowned his efforts in his business enterprises, as merchant, farmer, stock grower, and now Vice President of The King Milling Company. Physically, he is strong, with great powers of endurance, Apparently he has other years of success and usefulness before him, and his example is one to be emulated by the youth of the country. LOWELL CHURCH SOCIETIES. The First Congregational Church was organized February 13, 1856, by the Revs. James Ballard, Hammond and Hemmingway, with Mrs. Harriet Shepard, Mr. and Mrs. Bigelow, Deacon Babcock, Mrs. Mary J. Babcock, Mrs. Dr. Brower, Mrs. Thankful Clark and Mrs. Stoughton, as original members, who retained the Rev. Mr. Hemmingway as their first pastor. Among the most prominent and influential pastors that have administered to and labored for the church may be named the Revs. D. L. Eaton, Wm. F. Rose, E. R. Stiles, L. S. Griggs, L. F. Waldo, S. E. Busser, J. M. Van Wagner, J. T. Husted, and J. F. Edmonds, the present pastor. The Rev. Danforth L. Eaton, whose home was in Lowell, took a deep and fatherly interest in the maintenance and prosperity of the church. He was most instrumental in soliciting and raising funds for the erection of the church building and maintaining services therein during the society's infancy. The society was then administered to by James Ballard and James Gallup, of Grand Rapids, when unable to employ and pay a minister. The church building was erected in i858, at a cost of $2,500. It has undergone material repairs, and is now a handsome structure, containing a beautiful auditorium furnished with a pipe organ. The membership is I 15. The Sunday School has an average attendance of about 125, and is under the guidance of Ara D. Fisher, Superintendent. During the summer of 1889 the Rev. J. S. Edmonds organized a Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor. The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in i855, with the Rev. Isaac N. Bennett as Pastor. Among the organizing members may be named Charles Broad, John Martin, George Post, John CHURCH SOCIETIES-SCHOOLS. 8s5 Hartt, William Pearsoll, John Gillett, and their wives. The society held services in the building known as the old red school house until 1862, when they purchased the lot and building of School District No. I of Lowell. They continued worship in the same building until I869, when, under the management of the energetic and persevering Rev. J. M. Fuller, they built their present large and beautiful brick structure, at a cost of $7,500. The Rev. A. T. Luther is now Pastor and the church is in a prosperous condition. The society has a membership of I50. The Sunday School has an average attendance of 150, and is Superintended by Joseph B. Yeiter. The First Baptist Church and Society was organized August 14, 1858. The corporate members were Robert Hunter, Jr., Joseph Wilson, John Taylor, Cyrus Clark, Daniel Severy, Robert D. Winegar, John Blain, Stephen Goodman, Cornelius Carter and Jacob Chapman, with their wives. The first Board of Trustees was composed of Jacob Chapman, Joseph Wilson, Cornelius Carter, John Taylor, Cyrus Clark and John Blain. The society erected a.small but tidy frame church building in 1859, at a cost of $I,ooo, which they still occupy, but in a much improved condition. The Rev. J. S. Thomas has lately been called as Pastor, and enters upon his work with a membership of I43. The Sunday School, under the Superintendence of Frank N. White, has an attendance of 92 scholars and teachers. The Catholics of Lowell and vicinity organized a church society in April, 1879. They forthwith appointed a building committee to solicit and collect funds for the erection of a church building, composed of Fr. James Savage, and Messrs. John Giles, George Wilhelm, John M. Flanagan and Allen Brown. They were men of energy and perseverance, and the edifice was built and ready for dedication December 8, I879. It cost $3,000, and has a seating capacity of 30o.. The society membership is 200. Services are held on the third Sunday of each month. The Priests that have held services in this church are the Reverends James Savage, T.D. Flannery, JamesCrumley, C.J. Roche, J. G. Sanson, Joseph Benning, Bernard Goosens, John Schmitt; and Naz. N. Poulin, the present-officiating clergyman. The Seventh Day Advent Society purchased the frame school building near the 87 Lowell statipn of the D., G. H. & M. Railway Co., and converted it into a church, and held services there for a time. Their membership being small, and being unable to employ a regular stated preacher, they hold services only occasionally as circumstances may require or permit. SCHOOLS —EARLY. The first school between Ionia and Grand Rapids was organized here in I837, and a log school house was raised by the Robinsons at or near the corner of River and Elm streets, on the west bank of Flat River, and the first teacher employed was Miss Caroline Beard, an experienced teacher from Ithaca, N. Y., who commenced teaching in the spring of 1838. She was re-engaged to teach the winter term of 1838-39, and was assisted by her niece, Helen Chapin. The two ladies lived together in this rude school house, which contained a huge fireplace in the school room and a low chamber used by them for a sleeping and storage room. Miss Beard lived and taught in this way until her marriage to Caleb D. Page in 1839, as mentioned elsewhere. Miss Maria Winslow, daughter of Dr. Winslow, succeeded Miss Beard, and continued teaching in the county for twenty years or more. After Miss Winsiow's term of school, the log school house was converted into a cooper shop by Horace Shepard and used winters for a carpenter shop. From 1846 to i849 there was no regular district school, and what few children there were in Lowell went to school at Fox Corners, about one and a half miles north. There was occasionally a private or select school -one taught in a room of the present dwelling of Susan A. Bush, and another taught by Clarinda Robinson, now the wife of F. D. Stocking, in a building a few rods east of King, Quick & King's present saw mill site. CENTRAL SCHOOL. In I849 Cyprian S. Hooker built the second school house in the district, which was at the corner of Bridge and Division streets; a frame building known as the "old red school house," which was occupied for school purposes until 1862, when the main part of the present Central School building was erected by B. G. Wilson and M. N. Hine, contractors. The present school 806 HISTORY OF LOWELL, KENT COUNTY. buildings are composed of the Central building with large additions thereto, consisting of seven rooms; the West Ward, a twostory brick building with two large rooms and two large halls; and the South Ward, a one-story brick building of one room. The present corps of teachers are: Prof. C. S. Larzelere, Principal; Miss Rosa I. Lockwood, Preceptress; Misses Mate Headworth, Daisy Smith, Edwinnie Shaw, Mabel Ranney, Myrtie Trumbull, in the Central building; Mrs. Mina Jones, Principal, and Misses Kate S. Perry and Lillian Morrice, in West Ward, and Miss Ruby Blanding in South Ward. The present School Board is composed of Robert W. Graham, Otto C. McDannell, M. D., C. Orrin Hill, Edgar R. Collar, and S. D. Marsh: which Board elected for their executive officers, C. Orrin Hill, Moderator; Robert WV. Graham, Director, and E. R. Collar, Treasurer. The school census of I889 is 72I, with a non-resident attendance of 47. School District No. I has a library of 2,236 volumes. TOWNSHIP 1)IST'RICTS. There are eight school districts in the township besides three fractional districts. The school census, aside from District No. I, numbers 274. The township library, belonging to the districts (except No. I), has 8oi volumes, kept by F. D. Eddy, Town Clerk, is open for drawing each Saturday, and is well patronized. The census of Lowell township, approximately estimated, for census of I89o, will number about 3,200. The village corporation will take in about 1,830, and including village of Segwun at the depot, will number about 2,000. BANKING. Prior to I865 exchange brokerage, to a limited extent, was the only banking business done in Lowell. In May of that year the Lowell National Bank was organized, with a capital stock of $50,00o. First Board of Directors: Arba Richards, E. J. Booth, J. E. Chapin, J. W. Mann, W. W. Hatch, M. H. Norton, A. S. Stannard, A. F. Lee, J. C. Burroughs. In 1871 the capital stock was raised to $ioo,ooo; but reduced to the original amount in 1879. This bank had'a fairly prosperous business for some twenty years-during the life of its original charter; but after i885 became embarrassed and closed its doors September iI, I888. The following had been its Presidents: W. W. Hatch, 1865; H. A. Rice, 187I; W. W. Hatch, 1872; C. T. Wooding, 1879; after him M. N. Hine, who was President at the time it closed, September tI, i888, with E. A. Sunderlin as Cashier. John S. Lawrence was appointed receiver September 19, i888, and took possession September 25, i888. Dividends were paid to creditors under the receivership: Dec. I, i888, 40 per cent.; April 20, 1889, 50 per cent.; Feb. 11, I890, io per cent. and the interest. Francis King was then chosen agent by the stockholders and, April 24, 1890, the remaining assets of the corporation were transferred to him by the Controller of the Currency and the Receiver; thus terminating the trust. Charles J. Church & Son, who established a bank at Greenville many years ago, opened a banking office at Lowell in September, I888. John Q. Look is Cashier in this establishment. A. J. Bowne, R. E. Combs and Daniel Striker opened a private bank immediately after the failure of the Lowell National Bank, and went into business Oct. I, I888. M. C. Griswold is Cashier. Both of these banks are on Main street, and, being convenient for many people in the village and adjacent country, have a run of custom which is no doubt profitable. HiOTE LsS. The first hotel was built of logs by Daniel Marsac at or near the present site of Music Hall Block sometime in the forties, and was called the Lowell House. Not long afterward the Lowell House property was purchased by Uncle Tim White; who built a frame addition in rear of the log building. At the time Uncle Tim was running the hotel, the question of bridging Grand River and the location of the bridge came up, and an old resident relates that it was decided in the following novel way: The residents of the township and a.portion of he inhabitants of the territory now occupied by the village, favored the location at the mouth of Flat River, but Uncle Tim and his followers having friends in Boston, lonia county favored a site farther up stream; and when the Highway Commissioners met to decide the location of the bridge, Uncle Tim's argument- a barrel of free whisky-carried the day, and the bridge was built at the place now occupied HOTELS-NEWSPAPERS-WATER WORKS. 807 by the upper bridge. As the township of Lowell, or five-sixths of it, lies west of this village, it soon became evident and necessary that another bridge should be b4lt, and this was done at the present site of the lower bridge. Had the first bridge been placed in a more central location at or near the mouth of Flat River, the expense of keeping up and maintaining a second bridge would have been saved to the township. Arza H. King came to Lowell in I850, and soon after purchased the Lowell House property, and in I853 tore away the log part and erected a large two-story building in its place. and kept the hotel for seven years. From i860 to I863 it changed hands two or three times, and finally was purchased by VV R. Mason, who was proprietor and landlord at the time it burned in May, I864. The American Hotel was built a few years after the Lowell House by Samuel Cook and Hiram Robinson; run as a hotel but a short time, and was converted into a dwelling and boarding house. It was at the corner of Bridge and Monroe streets. The Franklin House was built by Cyprian S. Hooker in I855. He occupied and conducted it one year, leased it to Milton Bliss for one year, and after Bliss' lease had expired again took charge of and occupied it about a year, when he sold to Elias D. Parker, who managed the house until he sold to Arza H. King, about I86i. Mr. King was owner and proprietor of the Franklin House during the war, and accumulated considerable means. During the war and to the time it burned, the Franklin House was the chief hotel of the place. After Mr. King sold the property it passed through the hands of Theodore Nelson, Thompson I. Daniels, Daniel and William H. Misner, when it became heavily mortgaged to Anthony Yerkes of Vergennes, who became owner by virtue of foreclosure, but soon sold it to Freeman S. Jones, who leased the hotel to L. W. Davis. October, I882, the hotel burned and the old site is now occupied by a two-story brick block, in which are seven stores and one bank, known as the Jones & Lyon Block. Train's Hotel is a large and commodious three-story brick building, built to meet the growing requirements of the town in 1882, and was dedicated on Christmas day of that year. The building was erected by the enterprising townsman, Jarvis C.Train, whose name it bears. Chester D. Hodges was irst lessee of the hotel, and occupied it two years. Mr. Train entered the hotel in the spring of I885, and continued therein until May i, I889, when he leased it to the present popular landlord, Joseph McKee. The hotel is on the southwest corner of Main and Broadway streets, west of Flat River, and is the leading hotel of -the town. The Davis House was changed from a wagon shop to a hotel and boarding house about the year 1883. -The first lessee was Loren W. Davis, after whom the hotel was named. Austin B. Waterman, an old hotel man, succeeded Mr. Davis, and remained in the Davis House until the spring of i888. Samuel Taylor and wife are the present occupants, and are keeping a good house. The Farmers' Home, on the west bank of Flat River, is a two-story frame building and is well patronized by the farmers. It is owned by Ann Lane, and is at present leased'by Martin Rattigan. The National Hotel at Lowell Statluii, on the D., G. H. & M. Railway, is a twostory brick structure built by Peter Halpen, now dead. Charles Lawyer leases it of the administrator and is doing well. NEWSPAPERS. There are two newspapers printed in Lowell. The J/ournal (Republican) was founded in 1864 by Webster Morris. It has been the only newspaper printed here until 1889. The Journal has been owned and edited by Webster Morris, Morris & Hine (Webster Morris and James W~. Hine), James W. Hine, James D. Ellinwood, and Charles Quick, the present proprietor. The Denioc-alt was started in the summer of I889 by C. H. Elliott, and is Democratic with free trade proclivities. WATER WORKS. The village has the best system of water works, and the purest of flowing spring water that can be found in this region of country. The Lowell Water Company was organized in 1887, by Grand Rapids capitalists, with Edwin F. Sweet, President, and John E. Moore, Secretary and Treasurer. A. R. Hendtrix, Plumber, was appointed resident Superintendent. The plant has five miles of mains and fifty-five double fire hydrants. It is operated with steam boiler and engine of forty-five horse power; S08 HISTORY OF LOWELL, KENT COUNTY. Smith & Vail high pressure pump, with 750,ooo gallons per day capacity, and seventy pounds pressure from reservoir situate on Booth's Hill. LIGHTING. The village early, about I870, adopted the naphtha lamp lighting system for the principal streets, and had been well lighted for a long time. The present Council, not wishing to be outdone by surrounding villages and cities, entered into a contract with The Lowell Electric Light and Power Company, for electric lighting, in the latter part of the summer of 1890. September 20, 1890, the company commenced lighting the village. The company furnish light by the Thomson-Houston system, operated by a boiler and engine of sixty-horse power, with two dynamos; one for thirty arc and the other for three hundred incandescent lights. The larger part of the stock of the company is held by foreign capitalists, with Charles J. Church & Son as resident managers. MANUFACTURES. The Lowell Furniture Company own and occupy the plant commenced by Seth Cogswell, on what now is called Kopf Creek, on Section I of Lowell, just before it enters Grand River from the south. In 1856 Mr. Cogswell built a saw mill and ran it until he sold it to John Kopf, who erected a furniture factory in 1867 in addition to said saw mill, at a cost of $I2,000, including machinery. Mr. Kopf was an experienced workman in furniture, and did a business at one time of $20,000 a year. A warehouse and finishing room were added to the plant in 1872. Mr. Kopf, besides manufacturing furniture, conducted a retail furniture store in the village, with undertaking attached. With his business so divided, he entered into a copartnership in 1879 in his retail and undertaking business, with Orton Hill and H. Milton Trask. In I881 the firm of Kopf, Hill & Trask was instrumental in organizing The Lowell Furniture Co., with a capital stock of $25,000, turning in John Kopf's furniture plant as stock. The present Company have added buildings and machinery until the water became insufficient, and were compelled to add steam, and now use the combined power. They are working about 30 hands, and have a capacity for 75. The average annual sales are about $30,000 to $35,000. They are now principally engaged in manufacturing cases for the Princess Dressing Case Co., of Grand Rapids. The present executive officers are: N. B. Blain, President; S. P. Hicks, Vice-President; M. N. Hine, Secretary, and Charles A. Church, Treasurer. The Lowell Creamery Co. was organized in I883, and buildings erected the same year. They are about 30 rods west of the depot. The company sold the plant to Hilton Bros. & Co., of Boston, Mass., in I888. T. D. Tarleton, their manager, purchased the creamery in 1889, ran it one year and let it go back. During the winter of 1889-90, John 0. Chapin, formerly a stockholder in the first organization, purchased the creamery, and is operating it on the oil-test system, manufacturing from 900 to i,ioo pounds of butter daily, and pays as high as $120 per day for cream. Hilton Bros. & Co., commission merchants, take all the butter he can manufacture. Robt... Flanagan and Albertus H. Peckham, copartners, are the proprietors of the Lowell Cutter Factory. This occupies the site of Avery & Johnson's old planing mill that burned in 1867. The following year the mill was rebuilt by Avery & Johnson. The planing mill changed hands several times, until the Lowell Cutter Company was formed, purchased it and coverted it into a wood-work cutter factory The capacity of the factory at its best was 200 cutter bodies per day. In an unlucky moment this factory formed an alliance with a Chicago firm, the Cragin Cutter Factory, which took the bodies and running gears made here, and ironed, painted and finished them for market. Business was booming, and the combined company sold cutters to parties in Colorado whose paper went to protest; and the Lowell factory went to the wall, for the west end of the concern was owing the east end, with no means to pay. Flanagan & Peckham purchased the Lowell plant in February, 1889, and give employment to thirty men during the summer. They are adding machinery for manufacturing the iron braces and pieces necessary to fully iron the cutters manufactured by them. They are also making arrangements and placing machinery for the building of buggy boxes during the winter for spring trade. The marble works were founded by Jacob C. Hare in I873. His business steadily in MANUFACTURES-MILLS. 809) creasing. he formed a partnership with Charles E. Kisor, under the firm name of Hare & Kisor, in 1889, who are now doing a business of $6,ooo annually. The Lowell Cigar Factory of G. J. Johnson was founded in May, I890, gives employment to five men, and is doing a business of about $1o,ooo annually. The Lowell Bakery has been conducted by Emmet E. Chase and his mother for fourteen years. He is now sole proprietor, and does a bakery business of some $3,000 annually, besides his sales of meals and confectionery. Kopf Brothers (sons of Goodrich Kopf), have leased their father's plant, and are engaged in the manufacture of bedroom sets, tables and cases principally. They give steady employment to twelve men, are doing a large business in both manufacturing furniture and selling by wholesale and retail. The factory of Goodrich Kopf was built in I88I, at a cost of $3,000, and was first opened as a bedstead, bureau and table factory. Business soon so increased that it was necessary to make additions in buildings and machinery, which was promptly (lone. The factory is run with steam power, and is in a very flourishing condition. MILLS. The "Forest Mill," now owned by Wisner Bros., has grown to its present size and power from the first grist mill built in Lowell, located on the east bank of Flat River, south side of Bridge street. The first building was built by Cyprian S. Hooker in I847. It was run by water power furnished from a dam across Flat River nearly on the quarter line of Section 2, and conducted to the mill by a race now covered by the east side of the present mill pond. Mr. Hooker sold the mill to Talford & Chapin in I854. In I856 Wm. W. Hatch purchased a one-third interest. During the year I857 Talford sold his interest to his partner, Chapin, leaving Chapin & Hatch sole proprietors. Mr. Chapin sold to James 0. Fitch one half of his undivided two-thirds in 1858, and the remaining half to Edwin R. Craw in I859. Toward the close of I859 Mr. Fitch sold his interest to Hatch & Craw, who continued partners until i880, when E. R. Craw sold his interest to Wm. \V. Hatch. January io, 1880, Mr. Hatch sold the mill and half the water power to Edgar E. Wisner, who conducted the business alone until July, 1882, when his brother, Charles W., took a half interest and carried on the business under the name of Wisner Bros. The elder brother, Edgar, died Jan. 24, I887, after nearly a year's illness, and the business is continued by C. W. Wisner under the firm name of Wisner Bros. They have remodeled the mill and put in rollers. It has a capacity of 200 barrels daily, employing an average of ten men, and manufacturing a grade of flour that commands as good a price in eastern markets as any other brands or grades. Wisner Bros did a business of a little over $2I,000 during the month of August, 1890. The Lowell Mill (flouring) was built on the west bank of Flat River, by Hatch & Craw, in I867. It is a well and strong built building, three-story frame with basement. On or about Jan. 9, I88o, E. P. Craw sold his interest to his partner, W. W. Hatch, who in turn sold to Stiff & Stiff, June 19, I88I. Stiff & Stiff became involved and the mill fell into the possession of the Lowell National Bank. The property has for several years been leased to different parties at a loss to both owner and tenant. In the month of August, I890, the property was sold at public auction, and was purchased by Frank T. King and Charles McCarty, who have organized a stock company under the name of the King Milling Company, with a capital of $25,000. This company is thoroughly repairing the building, putting in rollers at a cost of $io,000. The Steam Flouring Mill and Elevator situated on the southeast corner of Main and Hudson streets occupies the site first utilized by Wilson, Gardner & Co. in I868 by the erection of a steam planing mill and door, sash and blind factory. The enterprise did not pay, and the company made an assignment for the benefit of their creditors. The machinery was sold and removed to Carson City, and the land purchased by A. R. Hoag of Vergennes. James S. Dougall leased the land of Mr. Hoag and enlarged and improved the building and put in machinery for a grain elevator and two run of stone for grinding flour and feed. The mill paid well for a time, but Dougall failed. Mrs. Jane McLean, widow of Alex. McLean, an endorser, in attempting to save something from the wreck, purchased the 810 HISTORY OF LOWELL. KENT COUNTY land of Mr.'Hoag, and the mill at auction sale, and has now leased the same to John W. Broadbent, an experienced miller, who is doing-a good paying business. Robert Marshall came to Lowell in an early day, purchased the cooper shop on the east bank of Flat River, Oct. 15, 1858, and has owned and controlled it ever since. This shop has remained the old standard one of this place; others have risen, flourished for a time and went out. Marshall's cooper shop has for a long time filled all orders of our large and flourishing flour mills. About five years ago, when the flouring mills shipped flour in cloth sacks to a large extent, Mr. Marshall did not propose to be idle, but purchased the engine, boiler and tools of a handle factory,put them in the north end of his shop, and turns ax handles, whiffletrees, neck yokes, and other handles to the amount of *2,000 annually. The cooper shop turned out in 1889, 28,000 flour barrels, I8,000 apple barrels, and 200 pork barrels, besides other smaller tubs and casks. King, Quick & King (Francis King, Reuben Quick and Frank T. King), operate a steam saw mill, shingle mill and lumber yard. The saw mill was built in 1871, and the shingle mill in I879. They have done a handsome business in lumber and shingle manufacture and trade. The Lowell Woolen Mills were built in 1867 by C. A. Clark, who sold his entire interest the following year to Morris R. Blodgett, who did a large business until 1871, when the plant fell into the hands of W. W. Hatch. Mr. Hatch, being engaged in' the flouring business, did not push the woolen industry, and sold it to Clark Brothers, sons of the builder, in I875. The Clark Brothers being experienced woolen mill men, gave this industry new life and energy, and have put on the market as good woolen cloths as any Michigan mills. This mill is operated by water power, and propels machinery sufficient to fill a two story building with basement 30 by I20 feet. Some time ago Henry F. Clark purchased the interest of his brother, Charles E., and is sole proprietor. TRADES. The village contains many live and energetic merchants, who almost universally adopt the drawing and winning feature of purchasing all and everything offered for sale by the farming community, whether in small or large lots or quantities, paying cash therefor, and allowing the farmer to trade where he desires. Among some of the leading merchants in the different classes of trade may be named: Dry Goods-.E. R. Collar, J. L. Hudson, C. G. Stone & Son, N. B. Blain and Wmn. Pullen. Groceries-C. Bergin, John Giles & Co., A. Fisher & Co., Andy Johnson, L. McCoy and Chas. McCarty. Drugs-Yeiter & Look, W. S. Winegar, Clark & Winegar and Hunt & Hunter. Boots & Shoes-E. Y. Hogle, A. J. Howk & Son and Robertson & Son. Commission Merchants-Hilton Brothers & Co. Furniture and Undertaking-A. L. Coons and Kopf Bros. Clothiers-Chas. Althen, J. L. Hudson, Marks Ruben and William Pullen. Jewelers —A. D. Oliver and Harry Sherman. Musical Merchandise-R. D. Stocking. Bazars-Jas. McPherson and S. A. Bush. Hardware-W. R. Blaisdell & Co., and J. C. Scott. Meat Markets-J. Edwin Lee and John McNaughton. Confectionery and Cigars —W. B. Rickert and L. McCoy (Little Mc.) Agricultural Implements-Patrick Keiley, H. Nash and Brown & Sehler. Buggies and Carriages —Enos & Bradfield, H. Nash and Patrick Kelley. MECHANICAL. Blacksmiths-H. J. Bosworth & Son, Eli F. Denny, G. W. Rouse, E. B. Hunter. Harness Shops-George B. Fuller, Irvin Young, Henry Schreiner and 0. A. Robinson. Whip Factory —Frank Robinson & Co. Carpenters and Joiners-B. G. Wilson, H. B. Aldrich, Thos. B. Birdsall and many others. PROFESSIONS. Physicians —J. L. W. Young, Otto C. McDannell, M. C. Greene, A. M. Elsworth and W. F. Brooks. Attorneys at Law —J. M. Mathewson,.F. C. Alger, Albert Jackson and M. M. Perry. Insurance Agents —S. P. Hicks, F. D. PROFESSIONAL-BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 811 Eddy, H. N. Stone, A. Jackson, F. D. Stocking, and Alger & Church. Real Estate —S. P. Hicks and M. M. Perry. Veterinary Surgeon —Ed McQueen. BIOGRAPHIES. Milton M. Perry was the oldest of three sons of William R. and Mary (Weeks) Perry. He was born October 23, 1836, at Sparta, Livingston county, N. Y. In the autumn of 1852 he with his father's family came to Michigan, and settled in Moscow, Hillsdale county, where they engaged in farming. In the summer of 1854, while in his eighteenth year, he taught his first school in Quincy, Mich. He taught school winters, and attended school summers at Ypsilanti Union Seminary under President Joseph Estabrook and at Hillsdale College, until 1861, when he commenced teaching in graded schools. He was employed in the Lowell Union School for the years 1863, 1864 and I865. August 25, 1864, he married Leonora Sinclair, fifth daughter of Daniel and Jane (Proudfit) Sinclair, of Tonesville, Mich. Of four children, Grace I., Kate S., Martha S. and M. Agnes Perr-, all are living except Grace, who died at the age of six years. He attended lectures at the Law Department of the Michigan University at Ann Arbor during the winter of I865-66, formed a law partnership with the Hon. T. J. Slayton July 20, i866, which lasted two years. He has continued in the law, real estate and insurance business since. In November, 1868, he was appointed Assistant U. S. Assessor of Internal Revenue, to succeed his uncle, C. R. Perry, M. D. (deceased), a'nd held the office until the law creating the office was repealed. Was nominated and confirmed Postmaster at Lowell, Mich., January 9, 1883, and held the office four years. He has been a member of the School Board fifteen years, and of the Common Council of the Village six years. He was Township Treasurer two terms, and has held the office of Justice of the Peace almost continuously since the dissolution of the firm of Slayton & Perry. He has always been an ardent but consistent Republican, and was a member of Kent County Republican Committee for four years, and under the Civil Service rules resigned when appointed Postmaster. John Kopf was a native of Germany, born in I828. He came to Lowell in 1855, and was energetic and successful in establishing the manufacture of furniture, and home and export trade in that branch of business. Dr. Arba Richards came to the town of Vergennes in 1839; afterward moved to Lowell, where he died in I870. He was a man of mark in his profession, and highly esteemed as a citizen. Fidius D. Stocking, born at Pontiac, Mich., Dec. 25, I824, removed to Grand Rapids with his father's family about I847, and came to Lowell a few years later. As a violin player in his younger days, he was known in all the country round, and no' party failed to be lively and interesting under the inspiration of his music. He is yet a resident. He married, in I857,- Clarinda Robinson, daughter of Rodney Robinson, one of a pioneer family. Chester G. Stone is a native of St. Law-,ence county, N. Y., born in I830. In 1837 his father came to Grand Rapids, where he was among the early foundrymen. Chester' was educated in the schools of Grand Rapids, and afterward in trade there until I857, when he removed to Lowell, which has since been his home. He is a merchant on Bridge street. Jarvis C. Train, a Vermonter by birth, came to Lowell with his parents when a lad of six years, about 1840, and since 1867 has been a steady resident, and has accumulated a handsome property. In early boyhood he was a playmate with the Indian children of the wilderness in and about where Lowell Village how stands. Cyprian S. Hooker is kindly and reverently remembered among those who contributed to the early and later growth of the town. John C. Scott, born in Otsego, N. Y., in i828, came to Michigan about I843, and settled in Grand Rapids, where he lived until I866, when he moved to Lowell, and since that time has been engaged in the hardware trade. In I869 he was one of the Trustees and in I872 was President of the Village. John M. Mathewson is among the old residents of Lowell. He was born in 1823, at Little Falls, N. Y., and emigrated to 812 HISTORY OF LOWELL, KENT COUNTY. Michigan in I844. He is the present Postmaster at Lowell. Leonard H. Hunt was born at Manchester, Washtenaw county, Mich., August 13, I840, and came to Lowell June 2, 1855, He was reared on a farm. In September, I862, he entered the Union service as Second Lieutenant in the Twenty-sixth Michigan Infantry, and served until discharged for disability in March, 1865. He was wounded in battle at Todd's Tavern, Va. May 8, I864, and was promoted to Captain Sept. 26, I864. After the war, in i866, he went into the drug trade at Lowell, which business he has followed ever since. He has filled several public offices, was chosen a Representative to the State Legislature in I886, and is counted as a worthy citizen and successful merchant. INDEX TO THE HISTORY OF GRAND RAPIDS. The following lists are arranged alphabetically in the body of the book, rendering unnecessary the repetition of the names therein in this index: Members of State Legislature from Kent county........................... Members of Old Residents' Association.................................. Members of Police Force up to I888................................... Firemen, List of, to April 30, i888....................................... Deaths of Inmates of the Soldiers' Home................................. Street Names, Locations, Derivations, etc................................. Members of the Valley City Guards (Privates)........................... Grand Rapids Volunteers in the War..................................... Kent County Commissioned Officers in the War............................ Fatalities in the Active Service of the War................................. Weddings Among the Villagers (men's names)............................ Golden Weddings, List of.............................................. Deaths of Village Residents, List of...................................... Roll of Attorneys in the Kent Circuit (89)............................... PAGE. 83 I45-147 i80 I86, 187 369-371 552-557 574, 575 600-602 602-613 614-621 622-624 624 624-628 757 INDIVIDUAL NAMES. Abel, Caroline A., 623 Abel, J. C., 59, 73, 77, 97, 387, 753 Abel, Mary J., 623 Abbott, Emma, 258 Achenbach, W., 302 Acher, N., 350 Ackley, Norman, 386, 387 Adams, Alson, 318, 444 Adams, B. M.. 53' Adams, C., 290 Adams, E J., 269, 272 Adams, if. M., 519 Adams, Judith, 492 Adams, J. V., 311 Adams, Mary A, 623 Adams, M. S., 394, 401, 402, 575 Adams, Miss L. B., 236 Adams, Mrs. M. V., 359 Adams, W. K., 402 Adams, W. F., 510, 543 Adams, Z., 495 Adams, Zephaniah, 477 Adsit, A. C., 749, 750 Adsit, Stephen, 750 Agnew, J. K. V., 350, 536 Ahnefeldt, Josephine C., 235 Ahnefeldt, Mary J., 235 Aillebout, M. de, 8i Akeley, H. C., 675 Albee, A. N., 564 Albright, Jacob, 350 Albright, Joseph, 395, 694, 698 Alcott, J. T., 474 Alcumbrack, Daniel, 402, 448 Alden. A. E., 716 Alden, C. M., 319 Alden, J M., 698 Aldrich, M. V., 341, 391, 392, 394, 673, 674, 678, 684 Aldrich, S. H., 392 Aldrich, W. J, 311, 312 Aldworth, E. J., 469 Alexander, A. P., 363 Alexander, J. G., 481 Alexander, J. H., 317 Alger' A. C., 255 Alger, John, 589 Alger, R A., 83, 139, 198, 368, 369, 434, 435, 589, 590, 591, 593, 599 Allen, A. K, 148 Allen, B., 301 Allen, C. 0., 498 Allen, C. S., 727 Allen, E. C, 467 Allen, E. E., 734 Allen, E. P,44 Allen, G. R., 228, 684 Allen, G. W., 366, 391, 393, 407, 684 Allen, H. H., 388, 391 Allen, James, 415 Allen, John, 766 Allen, Morgan, 386 Allen. S. W., 691, 698 Allen, W. C., 388 Allen, Z. E., 472, 498 Alley, Phoebe A. F., 719 Allgayer, Ferdinand, 342 Allman, Wm., 531 Allouez, Claude, 24 Allyn, C. B.. 519 Almy, A. W., 452, 562 Almy, C. D., 263, 275 Almy, John, 9, 6o, 65, 71, 72, 89, 97, I02, 125, I43, I68, 172, I91, 192, 277, 294, 387, 389, 393, 403, 409, 506, 5I5, 5I7, 518, 556, 652, 669, 736, 764 Almy, Mrs. John, 65 Almy, W. H, I81 Alt, N. 342 Altschwager F. J., 272 Amberg D. M., 201, 205, 300, 30I Ames, Bishop. 316 Ames, E. R., 310 Ames, J. E., 316 Amherst, Jeffrey, 8i Amidon, Caleb, 389 Ammon, Jacob, 579, 582 Amsden, H. M, 470 Anderson, A. J., 304 Anderson, Ebenezer. 115, 223, 228, 232, 300, 340, 391, 394, 400, 401, 411, 663, 697, 764, 765 Anderson, W. H, 350, 542, 543 Andrezejewski, Albert, 344 Andrus, C. A., 346 Angell, Ann, 578 Angell, Crawford, 395, 538, 539 Angell, M S., 290 Annis, James, 294 Annis, William, 294 Ansorge, Wensel, 450 INDEX OF NAMES. 814 Antflink, Gerrit, 332 Antisdel, A. R., 31i, 559, 560, 648 Antisdel, E. A. 272 Antrim, Mrs. M. E., 486 Apted, A. M., 3I1, 313 Apted, R. C., 270 Archer, Rev., 3I5 Arbor, B. P., 496 Archibald, James, 59 Argenson, Viscount, 8i Arlet, N., 342 Arms, Ebenezer, 689 Arms, Harriet A., 679 Armstrong, A. F., 576 Armstrong, C. N., 400 Armstrong, J. M., 389 Armstrong, Mrs. Mary,24I Armstrong,-M-~B., 3I3 Armstrong, Sullivan, 88, 510 Armstrong, Wesley, 596 Arndt, H. R., 268. 719, 723, 726 Arnold Benedict, 398 Arnold, D. B.-, 4 01 Arnold, D L., 402 Arnold, Frank, 402, 562 Arxnold, Libbie, 237 Arnold, Oliver, 54 Arnold, Spencer, 496 Arnott, George, 457 Arnoudse, A, 333 Ashley, Win., 238, 401 Ashley, Mrs. Win., 256 Aspinwall, D., 458 Aspinwall, S F., 350, 66I 662 Atwater, L. R., 6o, 118 I43, 144,,200, 227, 308 309, 311I, 356, 400, 402 409, 438, 570 Atwater, Mrs. L. R., 309 Atwood, W. 5., 587 Audrain, Robert, 401 Austin, Horace, 306, 402 Austin, John. 387 Austin, L H., 346, 48i Austin, Mary E., 623 Avangour, Baron, 8i Averill, Levi, 510 Avery, Edwin, 251, 655 Avery' J. M., 428 Avery, N. L., 214, 21 246, 267, 289, 362, 384 393, 394, 417, 418, 44' 446, 543 678, 68i, 68 689 Ayer, A. B., 437 Ayer, C. M, 437 Ayer, Gail L., 437 Ayeres, Prof, 169 Aylesworth, H W., 698 Ayres, A. C., 389 Baars, Anna F., 354 Baars, J. F., 281, 283, 3( 395, 409, 678, 68i, 683 Babcock, B. H., 394 Babcock C. P., 44, 112,308, 309, 384, 411, 439, 562, 587 Babcock, Eugene, 300 Babcock, W., 258 Bach, Louis; 304 Bachman, W. H, 498 Backer, M., 342 Bacon, A. N., 401, 430 Bacon, Charles, 289, 290 Bacon, C. R., 4 57 Bacon, Daniel, 219 Bacon, Misses, 241 Bacon, Mrs. C. R., 248,252 Bacon, Mrs. Viola D., 237 Bacon, Nathaniel, 732 Bacon. 5. 5., 290 Bagley, J.- J.- 83, 197 Bailey, Francis, 45, 46 Bailey, Hattie, 237 Bailey, J. 5., 402 Bailey S J., 40I Bailey, 5. 5., 215, 366, 384, 388, 391, 509, 510 512, 684 Bailey, Susie, 237 Baird, Robert, 268 Baisch, C. G., 448 Baker, "Big," 409 Baker, F. K., 685 Baker Henry, 179 Baker, H. P., 5I4, 542,685, 689 Baker, J. J., 275 Baker, Nicholas, 324 Baker, Sibelia F., 712 Baker, Samuel, 194, 409 Balch, N. A., 759 Balcom, C. A., 285 iBalcom. J. M-, 562 zBaldie, J. W., 284 Baldwin, H. P., 197, 383 Baldwin, S. L., 122, 390 394, 395, 488, 489, 55 Ball, Mrs. Catharine, 720 Ball, B. D.., 83, 128, I82 439, 519, 520, 737 Ball, Daniel, 95, 97, 9( 112, 124. 239, 387, 41( 417, 439, 5i6, 519, 52C 531. 544, 547, 646, 65( 672, 76~ Ball, E. M., 389, 440, 44* 5, 459, 461. 510 9, Ball, F. W., 250, 263, 26,.3, 272 '3, Ball, jasper, 318 Ball, John, II, 21, 6o, 74 76, 79, 90, 91, 112, II 143, 144, 174, 22I, 22 227, 230, 237, 238, 24 251, 345, 414, 416, 42 524, 525, 531, 747, 75 763 Ball, J. P.. 268 Ball, Lucy, 249 Ball, Maude, 235 )4 Ball, Nathaniel, 112 Ball, 0 A., -23 395, 4( 486, 66o Ball, Mrs. 0. A., 247 Ball, Sarah, 112 Ball, S. B., 308, 309, 655, 656, 766 Ball, Mrs. S. B., 309 Ball, 5. 5., 539, 564, 565 Ball, Win., 112 Ballard, Addison, 239 Ballard, James, 74, 107, 113, 114, i68, 195, 199, 221, 223, 224, 238, 239,.251, 286, 288, 356, 409, 509 Ballard, S. H., 147, 737 Banaszewiez, PhilliPP, 344 Banks, Charlotte A., 234 Bannister, W. D., i6g Baraga,,Frederic, 52, 55, 340, 409 Barber, M. C., 388 Barber, Mrs Miles, 283 Barclay, Charles, 313, 488, Barendese, B., 333 Bargelt, Henry, 3I4 Barker, G. J.-, 401 Barker, Geo. M., 21, 88, 346, 5o6 Barker, H. E., 258 Barker, J. T., 56o Barker, Mrs. J. T., 560 Barker, Mary Luther, 256 Barker,'S5., 529 Barker, Sarah, 232 Barker, W. P., 40I Barkley, M. Orinda, 237 Barkman, FranC'es, 232 Barlow, H. G., 274 Barlow, J B., 274 Barnard, B.W., 3I3 Barnard, G. P., 274 Barnard, W. R..- 59, 87 559, 562, 665. Barnes, D. F., 31I1, 313 Barnes, 0. M., 198 zBarnett, Ada, 236 Barnett, James, 319 ~,Barnett, J. M., 216, 424 5, 543, 643, 66o, 674, 675 678, 689 5,Barnhart, I. W., 232 Barnhart, Roly, 251 iBarnhart, W. H., 258 Barnhart, Willard, 35f 7, 431, 433, 675, 689, 697 Barns, Asenath, 622 Barns, E. W., 345, 385 oBarns, Henry, 597 3, Barns, Isaac, 86:2, Barns, Jacob., Sen., 6( '1, 87, io8 -o, Barns, Jacob, 90, io8, i8 i3, 26i, 262', 273, 385, 510 Barns, James, 261 Barns, John, 261 Barns, NaTicy, 623 Baroth, H., 258 Barr, A. A., 255 D3, Barr, A. E., 283 Barr, Mrs. A. E., 283 Barr, R. M., 58, 59, 85, 100, 167, 258, 47, 66 66547,56 Barrett, KI-. J., 389 Barrows, J. G., 255 Barrows, Asa, 272 Barry, E. D., 751 Barry, John 5., 74, 83, '9', '97 Barry, Garret, 241 Barry, J. 5., 197 Barry, Win., 241 Barstow, C. F., 87, 262 Barstow, H. F., i i6 Barth, Jacob, 273, 300, 50I Barth, John, 317 Barth, Louis, 699 Barth, Win., 316 Bartlett, Mrs. A. B., 358 Barzynski. 0. V., 344 Bass, J.-, 31I7 Batchelder, F. L, 281 Bates, Frederick, 731 Bates, L. J., 264 Bates, Mary, 235 Bates, M. W., 290, 291, 66i, 673, 684 Bates, Mrs. M. W., 290, 291 Batt, Andrew, 343 Bauer, Robert, 302 Baxter, Albert, 58, 196, 251, 264, 266, 267, 452, 477 Baxter, Mrs. Albert, 266 Baxter, Alfred, 486 Baxter, Charles, 2I7 Baxter, Edwin, 394 Baxter, E. H, 266 Baxter, Mrs. Emily, 2I9 Baxter, Mrs. Irene C., 266 Baxter, J. J., 6o, I114, 206, 401, 410, 452, 563, 665 Baxter, J. L., 452, 648 Baxter, John, 746 Baxter, Julia A., 410, 509 Baxter, L. G., 58, 6o, 102, 51 194, 452i86 Baxter, S. W., 148, ~6 I87, 576 Baxter, U. J, 270 Bayless, Misses, 56o 5, Bayne, James, 255 7Beach, Mrs. A. E., 232 Beach, Jane, I20 Beach, J. G., 387 Beach, John, 294, 487, 652 Beach, S. E., 584 o, Beal, Mary J., 562 Beamer, R. M., 314 'Bean, G. H., 313 Bear, I. J., 349 Beardslee, J. W., 324 Beattie, R. M., 357 Beauharnois, Marquis, 81 Becker, Louis, 350 Beckwith, Sidney, 300 INDEX OF NAMES.81 815 Beckwith, W. G., 200, 31II, 385, 402, 589, 591, 592, 593, 684 Bedell, Mrs. M. E., 197 Beebe, C. N., I 87 Beebe, Daniel, 403 Beebe, David, 31I8 Beebe, Luther. 72, 87, 288 Beebe, Lydia, 318 Beebe, Sarah, 3I8 Beecher, H. W., 274 Beecher, J. G., 27I Beers, Philo, 75, 387 Begole, J. W., 83, 198 BeW], Frederick, 492 Behnke, G. H., 504 Beierly, Peter, 410 Bellamy, Win., 293, 294 Bellamy, Mrs. Win., 294 Belden, Harriet, 127 Belden, 0. E., 29I Belknap, C. E., 83, i86, 228, 395, 455,,456, 687 Belknap, H. P., 455 Belknap, J. J., 404 Bellaire, T. E., i86 Bell, D. V., 73, 74 Bell, G. H., 225 Bell, Mrs. G. H., 225 Bell, Harvey, 732 Bell, J. H., 31I6 Bell, Thomas, 529 Bement, Edmund, 257 Bement, H. H., 306 Bement, H. P., 3I4 Bement, Leonard, 227, 257, 376, 393, 401, 742, 745, 746 Bemis, C. C., 25I, 477, 487 Bemis, John, 566 Bemis, Win., 114, 391,401, 65o, 653 Bemis, Zelotes, 88, 280 Bender, A., 562 Benedict, C. B., 270, 393 Benedict, E. D., 217 Benjamin, Catherine C., 436 Benjamin, David, 436 Benjamin, D. M., 347, 430, 435, 436, 437 Benjamin, Mrs. D. M., 252, 347 Benjamin, F. W., 436 Benjamin, H., 320 Benjamin, Mrs. H., 320 Benjamin, John, 390, 395, 402 Benjamin, L..- 314 Benjamin, Lew'is, 314, 3I5 Benjamifi, Martha, 436 Benjamin, Samuel, 435, 436 Benjamin, Win., 262 Benjamnins5 Leonard, 484, 656 Bennett, C. H., 684 Bennett, E. C., 574 Bennett, E. R., 283, 284 Bennett, G. C., 509 Bennett, G. M., 574 Bennett, Isaac 312 Bennett, J. D., 402 Bennett, J. H., 401, 402 Bennett, Levonia M., 622 Bennett, S. P., 320, 504 Bennett, W. B., 319 Benning, Joseph, 34I, 355 Benson, N. I.-, 301 Bentham, James, 403, 665 Bentham, G. W.,1 402 Bentley, Charles, 538 Bentley, George, 317 Bentley, Grant, 361 Bentley, W. T., 496, 538 Bentum, Jacob, 699 Berger, Charles, 184 Berger, Fred G., 267, 268 Berhorst, Henry, 342 Berkey, C. H, 472 Berkey, Julius, 281, 310, 311I, 357, 464, 465, 472, 476, 496 Berkey, Mary, 200 Berkey, Win. A., 267, 276, 312, 464, 465, 467, 468, 643 Berkey, Mrs. Win. A., 359 Berkhof, G., 337 Berkhoff, J., 337 Berles, Frank, 410 Berles, John, 403 Berles, Joseph, 342, 447 Berles, T., 342 Bernard, Mrs. Wm. B., 65 I Bero, John, I28 Berridge, John, 386 Berry, D. T., 365 Berry, G. S., 228 Berry,Georgietta, W., 236 Berry, J. W., 290 Berry, John, 488 Berry, Philip, 323 Berry, W. 5., 365 Bertram, Gustav, 316 Bertsch, Amy, 237 Bertsch, Christian, 350 Bertch, John, 377, 494 Berwin, G. A., 30I Best, James, 699 Best, Jonathan, P31 Best, L. E., 699 Bevier, Andries, 522, 541 Bettes, Anna, 234 Bettes, Lucy, 235 Betts, Geo. I., 4 Betts, G. W., 390 Betts, John, 495 Betz, G., 317 Betz, M., 317 Beyer, Andrew, 244 Biddalph, Mary, 622 Bidwell, A. B., 312, 493 Bidwell, Austin, 493 Bidwell, Benson, 27I Bidwell, J. B., 493 Bidwell, George, 493 Bieneinann, Mrs. Elise, 486 Bierce, D. E., 326 Bigelow, E. B., 592 Bigelow, L. G., 255 Bignell, C. W., 365 Bingham, Abel, 281, 68o Bingham, A. J., 281 Bingham, Ira, 708 Bingham, K. 5., 83, I97, 266, 53I. Bingham, Mary A., 679 Bird, E., 316 Birge, M. A., 25I Birney, J. G., 197 Biscomb, Mrs. M., 232 Bishop, J'. C., 737 Bishop, Lana, 237 Bishop, L. K., 384, 385, 387, 574, 737 Bisschop, A., 335, 336 Bissell, Mrs. Anna, 783 Bissell, H. L., 597 Bissell, M. R., 473, 474, 475, 476, 496 Bissell, 0. J., 597 Bissonette, C. A., 403,459 Black, C. W., 469 Black James, 197 Blackbird, A. J., 8, 41, 42, 6o Blackman, Amelia, 252 Blackney, Caroline, 623 Blackney, W. A., 295, 484 Blackskin, Chief, 28, i67 Blades, F. A., i68, 309 Blain, John, 447 Blain, 0. W.; 361 Blamne, J. G., 1Ii, I97 Blair, Austin, 83, 197, 368, 476 Blair, James, 215, 216,229, 251, 347, 363, 393, 54I, 542, 674, 685, 688, 755 Blair, Jonathan, 88, 3I2 Blair, Milo, 25I Blake, Joseph, 77, 387 Blake, Mary, 232 Blake, Ophelia C., 232 Blakely, Win. I., 6o, 87, 97, ii8, i8i, 220, 371, 389, 429, 556 646, 662 Blakely, Mrs. W. I., 223, 349 Blakeslee, C. D., 430 Blakeslee, Charles, 286 Blakley, Armintie, 237 Blanchard, H. L., 425 Blanchard, H. P., 425 Blanchard, Ira, 389 Blanchard, J. C., 267 Blasle, Franz, 258 Blick, M., 333, 334 Blickle, C., 317 Blickle, C. G., 302 Blickle, G., 316 Blickle, G. F., 365 Blickle, Gottlieb, 302 Blickle, J., 3i6. 317 Blickle, J. J., 500 Blickle, L., 316 Blickle, M., 316 Blickle, Paul, 365 Bliss, Almira E., 622 Bliss, A. T., 366, 369 Bliss, D. W., 572, 577, 691, 694. 699, 700 Bliss, E. B., 700 Bliss, Eugenie P., 700 Bliss, Marilla, 699 Bliss, Obediah, 699 Bliss, W. P., 700 Bliss, Z. E., 577, 694, 700 Bliss, Mrs. Z. E., 252 Blodgett, D. A., 1138, 267, 347, 430, 685, 686, 688 Blodgett, Mrs. D. A., 347, 359 Blodgett, J. W., 542z, 686 Blodgett, Susan R., 686 Blood, Frances M., 236 Bloxton, W. E., 403 Blumrich, Robert, 403 Blumrich, Wenzel, 69r, 698, 700 Boardman, F. D., 227 Boardman, G. D., 35 Bocher, M., 320 Bock, John, 342 Bode, C., 360 Bodelack, Anthony, 377 Bodle, A. T., 7I9 Bodmer, J. R., 316 Boehm. Father, 34I Boer, G. E., 244, 271, 360 Boer, J. E., 335 Boerns, A., 316 Boertje, C., 33I Bogardus, P. A., 401 Bohne, Henry, 304 Boise, E., 289 Boise, Eugene, 694, 695, 696, 697, 698, 700 Boise, Mrs. L. A., 290, 291I Boise, Mrs. L. M., 358 Boivin, Mrs. J. G., 234 Boland, J.. D., 373, 374 Bole, John, 273 Bolier, John, 33I Bolles, E. E., 478, 498 Bolt, J.-, 335, 336 Boltwood, G. 5., 75I Bolza, C. E., 487 Bommelje,Win., 329, 330, 33' Bond, Miss, 51, 219, 223 Bonnell, J, C., 688 Bonney, Orris, 281 Bonser, J. B, 459 Booth, M. P., 496 Boot, T. A., 701 Boozer, H. W., 255, 345 Boozer, Mrs. M. J.,34 Booyer, J. A., 283 Borden, Baker, i82, 223, 31I2, 313, 4011,403,571,662 Borgess, C. W., 341, 342 Borrendamme, Cornelius, 338 Borst, C. W., 225 Bostock, W. B.,53 Bostwick, E. B., 6o, 73, 74, 79, 87, 110, 121, 192, 295, 464, 556 663, 670 816 INDEX OF NAMES. Bosworth, E. F., 510 Bosworth, J. L., 251 Botsford, A. B., 719 Botsford, A. H., 318, 717, 720, 721 Botsford, Mrs. A. H., 656 Botsford, J. E., 320 Boughton, F. W., 268 Boughton, T. C., 246 Bouma, G. B., 141 Bouwman, D., 339 Bovyer, J. A., 395 Bowman, P. H., 87, 237, 390, 393, 69I Bowman, T., 350 Bowne, A. J., 54I, 542, 685, 688, 770 Bowne, Mrs. A. J., 355, 697 Bowne, John, 416 Boxheimer, Emma C., 249 Boxheimer, Francis, 394, 402, 559 Boyce, C. F., 218 Boyd, J. D., 289 Boyd, W. S, 53I Boyer, Emma, 623 Boyer, George, 285 Boyer, J. A., 320 Boyer, Mrs. J. A., 320 Boyer, Joshua, 76, 97, i68, 227, 559, 746 Boyle, Bernard, 401 Boynton, C. A., 460 Boynton, Edith K., 235 Boynton, Jerry, 387 Boynton, Jeremy 310 Boynton, J. W., 137, 540, 542 Boynton, L. S., 313, 314 Boynton, Nathan, 71 Boynton, Perry, 71 Boynton, Wm., 71 Brace, Avery, 88 Bradfield, Edward, 508 Bradfield, John. 472 Bradfield, T. D., 695,698, 701 Bradford, Aruna, 492, 493 Bradford, Edwin 685 Bradford, Sarah L, 442 Bradford, V. L., 20 Bradish, G. M., 716 Bradley Dorr, 382 Bradley, D. W., 436 Bradley, George, 309 Bradley, J. W., 436 Bradley, S. K., 449 Bradley, W. S., 539 Bradley, Wm H., 436 Brady, John, 694,696, 697, 701 Brady Thomas, 340 Brakeman, C. A., 264 Branch, H. A., 309 Brandt, Elizabeth B... Brandt, George, 204 Brandt, G. W, 204 Breed, Mrs. Mary E., 682 Breed, H. P., 542 Bremer, Henry, II9, 302, 385, 394, 400, 491 Brenner, C. T., 166, 377, 395 Brewer, Aaron, 387, 510, 684. 685 Brewer, Alonzo, 386 Brewer, L. A., 694 701 Brewer, L. B., 728 Brewster. -, 48 Brezee, Lloyd, 267, 268 Bridge, Abba G., 623 Bridge, B. G., 95 Bridge, H. P., 74, 87, 97, 109, 172, 294, 426, 556 Bridges, C. J., 529 Bridgeman, J. M., 727 Briggs, Barber, 51I Briggs, Mrs. Cordelia T., 250 Briggs, E. L., 197, 386, 51I, 512 Briggs F. M., 535 Briggs, G. G., 170, 363, 378, 403, 404, 497, 541, 594, 595, 596, 666, 68I Briggs, Mary (Swan), 5II Briggs, N. H, 594 Briggs, Robert, 511, 513 Brigham, H. C., 721 Brigham, G. N., 277, 347, 721 Brigham, W. I., 730 Brink, Adrian, 335 Britt, H. A, 204 Brink, J., 336 Brink W., 335 Brinsmaid, Mr., 113 Brinsmaid, C. G., 228, 247, 319, 320, 394 Brinsmaid, H., 487 Brinsmaid, T. C., 70, 71 Brisbin, N. B., 684 Brittain, J. B., 559, 563 Brittain, Mrs J. B., 563 Brittan, S. B., 345 Britton, P. J; 389 Broad, Alfred, 666 Broadfoot, John, 459 Brobst, Henry, 440 3rockway, W. H., 598 Brodhead, T. F., 587 Broene, G., 339, 360 Brogger, Anthony, 343 Brogger, Frederick, 562 Bronkaw, B. P., 492 Bronson, Arthur, 20 Bronson, Isaac, 19, 20 Brooks, E. C., 387 Brooks, E. H., 269, 283, 285 Brooks, Horatio, 224, 308, 309, 488 Brooks, H. A., 271 Brooks, H. C., 470 Brooks, J. A., 75, 434 Brooks, Lucina P., 434 Brooks, Martha A., 434 Brooks, Mrs. Sarah, 696 Brooks, Sophia, 85 Brooks, T. C., 209 Brooks, T. J., 354 Brooks, W. C., 349 Brooks, Wm., 137 Brosseau, G. A., 320 Brothers, Mrs. F. H., 232 Brouwer, Henry, 401 Brown, Mrs. A. C., 333 Brown, C. R., 218 Brown, Daniel G., 225, 648 Brown, E. G., 739 Brown, H. D., 289, 292 Brown, Henry, 318 Brown, H. M., 389 Brown, J. A., 184, 402 Brown, J. B., 285, 286 Brown, J. W., 404 Brown, John, 388 Brown, Joseph, 307 Brown, L., 350 Brown, Michael, 366, 369 Brown, M. P., 324, 452, 456 Brown, O. E., 425, 660 Brown, Rev., 29I Brown, S. B., 593 Brown, T. L., 509 Brown, T. T, 285 Brown, Wm., 388 Brown, W. A., 390, 40I, 449 Brown, W. H., 63, 284, 387 Browne, S. A,, 513 Brownell, J. H., 270 Bruer, K., 342 Brummeler, Wm., 348 Bruss, Evert J., 328 Bryan, D. W., 394, 651 Bryan, Mrs. Mary E., 241 Buchanan, A. W. 290 Buchanan James, 196, 197 Buchanan, J. C., 18I, 280, 28I, 283, 448, 727 Buchanan, R. R., 274 Buchanan, Samuel, 448 Buchanan Sophia, 283 Buck, P. H., 530, 53I Buck, S. S., 316 Buckley, Mrs. Nellie, 486 Buddenbaum, Henry, 316 Budington, C. 0., 401, 576 Buehler, Daniel, 302 Buell, Miss, 258 Buell, J. I., 311 Buell, Lorenzo, 254, 255, 728 Buell, Marcus, 387 Buhrmann, H. M., 268, 348 Bullman, Ora F., 313 Bulkley, W. F., 299 Bulkley, Mrs. W. F., 355, 697 Bundy, McGeorge, 289, 678 Bunyan, J. R., 532 Burall, Mary, 623 Burch, Carrie E., 233 Burch, M. C., 170, 470, 737, 746 Burchard, Lucia, 396 Burd, Edward, 321 Burford, Spruille, 170, 298 Burger, D. J, 294 Burgett, Gabriel, 124 Burgwin, H. P., 534 Burke, John, 123 Burlingame, E. A., 737, 743 Burlingame, Eseck, 510 Burnett, David, 60, 72, 97, io6, 181, 221, 227, 346, 429, 543, 545, 655, 662 Burnham, Z. W., 251 Burns, David, 309 Burr, E. D., 261, 263, 270, 727 Burr, F., 576 Burr, John, 576 Burrows, John, 459 Burt, Judge, 676 Burt, Richard, 263 Burt, W. R., I98 Burtch, H. F., 661 Burton, Mrs. A. S. K., 359 Burton, Barney, 59, 6i, 63, 64, 72, 77, 85, 87, io0, 418, 495, 586 Burton, Elizabeth, 62 Burton, Harriet, 54, 56,58, 85, 140, I44, 167 Burton, J. C., 317 Burton, Josiab, 20, 59, 62, 88 00oo, 426, 761 Burton, Lewis, 62 Burton, W. S., 588 Bush, Daniel, 307, 308 Bush, O. C., 182 Buss, Charles, 443 Buss, E. P., 443 Buss, G. F., 443 Buss, H. C., 443 Buss, W. R., 443 Buter, H., 337, 339 Butler, B. D., 263 Butler, B. F., I97 Butler, D., 318 Butler, John, 235, 345 Butler, Mrs. Lydia, 321 Builer, M. B., 75I Butler, N. T., 246, 487 Butler, S. F., 60, 97, II0, 239, 287, 32I, 322, 323, 356, 401, 403, 461 Butler, T. D, 293 Butterfield, Isaac, 281, 755 Butterfield, R. W., 283, 478, 734, 755, 756 Butterworth, R. E., II4, 189, 416, 420, 439, 50I' 556 Button, Alphonso, 402 Button D. F., 497 Button, Ransom, 727 Butts, L. C., 481 Butts, Louisa M., 722 Butts, W. M., 481 Buursma, Ale, 332 INDEX OF NAMES. 817 Buxton, Thomas, 307 Buys, Adrian, 329 Bylsma, John, 327, 400,402 Byrne, Thomas, 686 Cadwell, H. M., 395, 403 Cady, E. H., 40I, 402, 564 Cady, N. H., 564 Cady, W. R., 401, 543, 563, 564 Caesar, Julius, 365 Calahan, Timothy, 401 Calder, J. P., 72, 294, 556 Caldwell; Alcott, 501 Caldwell, D. M., 573 Calhoun, J. C., 261 Calkins, C. P., 60, 87, 114, 227, 240, 295, 346, 393, 394, 753, 762 Calkins, C. W., 228, 299, 574, 576, 698 Calkins, John, 281, 283, 284, 512 Calkins, H W., 448 573 Calkins, Sarah A., 512 Calkins, W. E., 284, 509, 512, 513 Calkins, W. H., 448 Callieres, Chev, 8i Calloway, S. R., 529 Cambron, Horace, 268 Camburn, C. M., 294 Camburn, M. B. 309, 3Io Camp, E. P., 103, 182, 318, 403 Camp, Martha, 318 Campau, Antoine, 48, 59, 6i, 74, 86, 87, 90, 97, ioo, 143, 556, 647, 652 Campau, Dennis, 228 Campau, Edward, 525 Campau, Emily, 134 Campau, George, 48, 59 Campau, Louis, 15, 19, 20, 37, 45, 46, 47, 48, 52, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 62, 63, 64, 65, 67, 72, 73 74, 77, 78, 90, 94. 96, 97, I02, I34, I55, I67, 175, 219, 260, 261, 287, 340, 372, 374, 422, 426, 444, 487, 505, 516, 5I8, 549, 556, 559, 56o, 642, 645, 663, 670, 761, 763 Campau, Mrs., 74 Campau, Mrs. Louis, 55, 7I Campau, Toussaint, 20, 48, 58, 59, 62, 74, 90, 115, I34, 549, 652, 670 Campaus, the, 662 Campbell, A. P., 588 Campbell, Mrs. J., 313 Campbell, Mrs. J. H., 245 Campbell, James, 500 Campbell, John, 313 Campbell, J. V., 732 Campbell, Nancy, 235 Campbell, Miss Nellie, 299 Campbell, Polly, 382 Campbell, Samuel, 142 Campbell, W. H., 530 Campbell, Wm., 698 Campman, H. J. W., 332 Candee, George, 272, 290 Candee, Phebe, 622 Canfield, George, 487 Canfield, John, 689 Canfield, Mrs. L. H., 486 Canote, Chief, 29 Cappon, Isaac, 494 Carbert, J. A., 701 Cargill, F. K., 274, 275 Cargill, H. N, 698 Carle, Lyn L., 236 Carlisle, J. W. H., 314 Carlton, Sir Guy, 81 Carlyle, C. H, 387 Carman, C. W., 230, 231, 250 Carmell, Antoine, 62, 444 Carmell, Therese, 62 Carmon, Bessie M., 234 Carpenter, C. B., 496, 576 Carpenter, E. R. E., 727 Carpenter, Mrs. Esther, 513 Carpenter, Eugene, 272 Carpenter, F, P., 737 Carpenter, Hannah, 594 Carpenter, H. D., 513 Carpenter, T. M., 264, 267 269, 272 Carr, Archibald, 700 Carr, Mr. H. J, 248 Carr, Marion, 700 Carrier, A., 225 Carrier, A. B., 290, 357 Carrier, Edmund, 224, 403 Carroll, Anna S., 234 Carroll, C. H., 102, 182, 295, 512, 545, 559 Carroll, Charles, 354 Carroll, Chas. M., 232 Carroll, F. M., 268, 510 Carson, Jefferson, 492, 493 Carter, C. B., 388 Cartwright, Wm., 494, 495 Carver, Amanda, 105. 623 Cary, A. X., 87, 114, 393, 394, 407, 424, 519, 684 Cary, C. H., 575 Case, J. H., 402 Case, G. W., 440, 533, 534, 535 Cass, Lewis, 27, 50, 5I, 8i, 82, I95, I97, 383, 546 Cass, Mary C., 535 Castle, T. H., 307 Caswell, Chloe M., 456 Caswell, David, 155, 183, i86, 188, 389, 393, 426, 498 Catlin, G. B., 268, 271 Catlin, H. W., 695, 697, 702 Catlin, Mrs. I. N., 232 Caulfield, John, 775, 374, 648, 649, 650, 666 Caukin, Rufin, 388 Caukin, V. WV., 386, 388, 389 Cavanaugh, James, 186, 394, 575 Cavanaugh, Miss May V., 230 Centilli, Leon, 344 Cephas, H. M., 318 Chabollier, Louis, 49 Chaffee, C. C., 702 Chaffee, R. G., 386 Chalmers, A. B., 238 Chamberlain, Caroline R., 232 Chamberlain, Emma, 244 Chamberlain, Henry, 197 Chamberlain, J. S., 753 Chamberlain, S. S., 401 Chamberlin, E. P., 460, 500 Chambers, Cornelia A., 749 Chambers, Nelson, 749 Champlain, Samuel de, 8I Champlin, Geoffrey, 732 Champlin, J. C., 389, 732 Champlin, J. W., 299, 394, 543, 689, 732, 733, 734, 745, 749, 75I, 754, 755, 756 Champlin, S. G., 393, 572, 577, 733, 737, 742 Chandler, Zachariah, 195, 51I Channing, W. E., 437 Chart, Wm., 538 Chapel, Gurden, 386 Chapin, L. C., 297 Chapin, Salem, 576 Chapin, S. S., 299 Chapin, T. N., 388 Chapman, E. W., 306 Chapman, Jacob, 388 Chase, Aquilla, 436 Chase, Amos, 386 Chase, B. S., 259 Chase, B. W., 448 Chase, C. A., 259 Chase,'C, H., 319, 745 Chase, L. E., 259 Chase, Levi, 576 Chase, Mrs. L. J., 354 Chase, M. J., 259 Chase, Salmon P., 436, 668 Chastes, Commander de, 8i Chateaufort, M. de, 8i Chatfield, Larman, 308, 309 Chauvin, M., 81 Chellis, Abbie, 232 Cheney, A. B., 198 Cheney, J. E., 283 Cheney, Z, V., 510 Chesebro, Elizabeth, 231 Chesebro, E. W., 221, 238 Chick, C. H., 686 Child, Alpha, 264, 404 Childs, Nicholas, 127 Childs, J. W., 511 Chipman, Henry, 731 Chipman, H. H., 384, 576, 743 Chipman, O. H., 691, 694, 698, 702 Chipman, Walter, 386 Choate, Rufus, 112 Christ, Christian, 203 Christ, Gottlieb, 154, 203, 559 Christ, Helen, 235 Christ, Gustav, 203 Christiancy, I. P., 197, 732 Chubb, A L., 223,' 247, 249, 250, 409, 459, 460, 538, 766 Chubb, Arba, 401 Chubb, H. S, 507 Chubb, J. F., 20, 59, 72, 77, 85, Ilo, 143, 237, 239, 377, 391, 393, 459, 5I0, 546 Chubb, P. F., 5I Chubb, Uriah, 389 Church, B. B., I86, 393, 418, 571, 584 Church, Benjamin, 753 Church, Rev. C., i68 Church, Fred. S., 256, 274, 525 Church, Gamaliel, 753 Church, Mary (Almy), 753 Church, M. B., 504 Church, Mrs. M. E., 352 Church, Nathan, 267 Church, T. B, 134, I40, i68, I69, 170, 237, 246, 251, 26i, 295, 393, 745, 753 Church, Mrs. T. B., 257, 296, 525 Churchill, H. P., 263 Ciesleweiz, Anton, 344 Cilley, C. D., 347 Clark, Annah M., 231 Clark, C. B., 502, 503 Clark, Charlotte, 623 Clark, D. F., 365 Clark, Erastus, 390 Clark, E. J., 170 Clark, F. S., 384, 743 Clark, G. B., 264 Clark, G. S., 290 Clark, G. H., 471 Clark, Helen A., 232 Clark, James, 59, 422, 761 Clark, J. C., 224 Clark, J. P., 514 Clark, J. i., 747 Clark, Lydia J., 622 Clark, M. H., 263, 271 Clark, Maria, 219 Clark, Marion, 219 Clark, M. P., 241 Clark, P. G., 401, 402 Clark, Peter, 219 Clark, Phebe, 219 Clark, T., 316 Clark, W, M., 476, 486 818 81~~~~~ ~INDEX OF NAMES. Clark, W. A., 502 Clarke, Mary A., 623 Clarke, Terence, 344 Clarke, Win., 702 Clarkson, David, 297, 299 Clancy, John, i8i, 355,389, 393, 394, 410, 491, 557, 649, 674, 685 Clahicy, Win., i8i, 491 Clay, D. P., 298, 347, 394, 47I, 498, 510, 536, 685 Clay, Mrs. D. P.,34 Clay, George, 678 Clay, G. G., 470 Clay, Henry, 197, 122 Clay, Martha, 678 Clay, S. D., 73 7 Cleave-land, 0. M. W. 402 Clemens Joseph, 342 Clements, E. B., 386 Clements, J. L., 424, 675 Cleveland, Grover, 197, 399, 436 Cleveland, J. P., 288 Clidesdell, James, 1123, 124 Clinton, J. S., 665 Close, Converse, 388 Clough, Lavinia, 502 Clute, Albert, 389 Clutz, Charles, 597 Coade, Patrick, 403 Coates, J. P., 3I7 Coats, J., 576 Coats, W. P., 6 Cobb, S. H., 276, 320 Cob-Mu-Sa, Chief, 29 Coburn, John, 503 Cochran, B. H., I39 Cody, D. D., 289, 689 Coffinberry, Andrew, 745 Coffinberry, Julia F., 232 Coffinberry, W. L., 15, i6, 17, i8, 46, 119, 120, 129, 138, I74, i~i, 250, 277, 345, 346, 391, 403, 407, 410, 487, 500, 57I Coggeshall, Geo., 6o, 71, 72, 73, 87, 97, 114, 143, i68, 200, 207, 294, 346., 391, 400, 488, 545, 723 Coggeshall, Mrs. George, 56o Coggeshall, Hannah B., 623 Cogshall, Israel, 310 Cohn, B., 301 Coit, C. W., 289 Coit, D. W., 20, 233, 489 Coit, J., 233 Colby, H. P., 455, 458 Colby, Luther, 546 Coiclazer, Henry, 307 Coldren, Mrs. Rose, 486 Cole, Emnma J., 231 Cole, Harry, 2~3 Cole, Ida M., 237 Cole, Mrs., 283 Cole, R. W., I 55, 262, 362, 389, 393, 745, 753 Cole, Wilna, 495, 654 Coleman, John, 3I7 Coleman, N., 250, 276 Coleman, N. H., 294 Colin, M~ A., 487 Collar, A. P., 128, 394, 483 Collar, H. A., 386. 403. 404 Colleton, J. H., 205 Collier, G, 182 Collier, J. T., 727 Collins, A. M., 481 Collins, Mrs. E. D., 697 Collins, R. M., ii6, i8i, 261, 401, 519, 572, 577, 6584 Colson, C. T., 38 5 Colson, M. G., 462, 463 Colson, S. T., 387 Colton, Clarence, 263 Colton, Gideon, 401, 571T Colton,- J. B., 386, 390, 403 Colton, Simeon, D. D., 598 Comstock, Mrs. Barbara, 289 Comstock, C. C., 83, 189, 197, 209, 267, 363, 389, 394, 403, 426, 427, 428, 430, 462, 464, 477, 478, 479, 498, 507, 54I, 543, 550, 648 - Comstock, Mrs. C. C., 315 Comstock, D. B.,65 Comstock, E. D., 743 Comstock, Julia A., 222 Comstock, T. A., 462, 464, 478, 479, 576 Conant, A. J., 256 Conant, W. F., 264, 27I Conant, Hannah A., 687 Concannan, M. J., 365 Cone, C. E., 539 Congdon, G. R., 312, 488 Congdon, W. H., 312, 488 Conger, E. D., 268 Con'key, G. B., 522 Conklin alias Morgan, 375 Conlon, Frank, 574 Conner, P. E., 398 Connolly, Michael, 97,221, 401 Connor, A. D., 402 Connor, Rev., 347 Connors, John, [87 Connors, Thomas, 401 Conrad, Hattie E., 234 Considine, J. D., 19 Constant, Pierre, 47 Converse, C. C., 421, 425, 47' Converse, J. W., 216, 283, 421, 422, 467, 471, 497, 536, 546, 583, 674 Cook, D. D., 50I Cook, Frank, 5oI Cook, George, 389 Cook, Mrs. Harriet A., 228 229 Cook, J. D., 530, 53I Cook, J. M., i86, 444, 524 Cook, Jonathan, 312 Cook, Joseph, 312 Cook, Rev., 347 Cook, R. R., 75 Cook, W. N., 144, I8i, 346, 389, 393, 402, 404, 444, 447. 448, 509, 5II Cook, W. S., 534 Cook, Stephen, 543 Coolbaugh. F. C., 299 Cooley, T. M., 732 Coolidge, Emeline, 42I Coolidge, Nabby, 421 Coolidge, Nathan, 421 Coon, D. L., 519 Coons, A. L., 387 Cooper, G. S., 366 Cooper, Peter, I97, 436 Cooper, W. H., 492 Copeland, J. B., 59, 85 Copeland, J. T., 731 Copland, Joseph, 587 Coppens, Mrs. E. M., 256, 257 Corbon, Thomas, 318 Cordes, Anthony, I92 Cordes, Elizabeth, 192 Cordes, F. W., 402 Cordes, John. 654, 65 Cordes, Joseph, 20, 415 Corey, Solomon, 88 Cornell, Agnes, 237 Cornell, J. A., 387 Cornell, W. F., 27I Corning, Gordon, 457 Corwin, Frank, 141 Cotton, Clarence, 268 Coughlin, Cornelius, 140 Courcelles, Chev., 8 Courtney, Bernard, 420 Courtney, R. E, 390 Courtright, Aaron, 562, 563 Covell, Elliott, 563 Covell, Leonard, 6o, 64, III, 144, 182, 257, 390, 39I, 393, 394, 400, 403, 429, 542, 543, 564, 646, 662, 687 Covell, P. F., 312, 542 Covode, J. A.,~ 216, 228, 465, 473, 496, 66o, 688 Cowens, Harmon, 737 Cowles, V. F., 389 Cowles, W. F., 309 Cox, F. C., 32I Cox, James, 5IO Cox, W. E., 412 Cox, Win., 449 Coy, John, 347 Coye, Albert, 3I3 Craig, H. J., 458 Cram, Lucretia, 623 Cramahe, Hector T., 8 Cramond, Mrs Phcebe,485 Cramton, Alanson, 6o, 89, 102, i67, 194, 258, 5i8 Crane, E. H., 250 Crane, J.- M., 299 Crane, Thomas, 321 Crapo, H. H., 83, 197, 383 Crawford, Alfred, 39'5 Crawford, R. C., 314, 3i6 Cray, W. H., 500 Creque, J. P., 395 467 Creswell, Ellen A., 233 Creswell, H. L., 251, 263 Creswell, J. A., 263, 270 Crinnion, Thos., 7 Crippen, E. M., 307 Crittenden, I. L.,39 Crockett, S. L., 47I Cromwell, Flora A., 237 Cronin, James, 365 Cronk, D., 314, 315 Crook, Isaac, 311 Crooks, Adam, 307 Crosby, Amelia, 283 Crosby, D. M., 402 Crosby, J. 5., 281, 648, 66i Crosby, L. D., 3I7 Crosby, M. 5., 83, 218, 228, 247, 250, 267, 283, 356, 357, 424, 540, 648, 66o, 66 i, 684 Crosby, Mrs. M. S., 252 Crosby, W. 5., 542 Crossett, E. P., 387 Croswell, C. M., 83, 197, 198 Crow, D. A., 208 Crow, M. R., 208 Crowley, Timothy, 401 Crozier, A. 0.. 500 Crozier, J. A., 369 Crozier, J. G., 316 Crozier, 0. R. L., 510 Crull, A., 302 Crump, T. 5., 574 Cubley, Anna Grace, 382 Cubley, John, 382 Cullen, John, 403 Culp. Chri~topher, 490 Cuming, Mrs. Charlotte, 128, 352, 354 Cuming, Emily J., 297 Coming, F. H., 87, 239, 246, 295, 296, 297, 299, 404, 545, 647, 66i Coming, Frances ST., 222 Cuming, Mary H., 256, 297 Coming, T. B., 220, 239, 297 Cummings, Charles, 457 Cummings, Elizabeth, 758 Cummings, John, 458 Cummings, Norman, 457 Cummings, Roy, 14 Cummer, W. W., 689 Curdy, S. E., 283, 284, 289 Cornier, A. 0., 173, 249, 250, 276 Cornier, A. W., 273, 274, 498 Cornier, Ira, 315, 390 Curtis, Mrs. James, 454 Curtiss, Chauncey, 397 Curtiss, J. L., 267, 395, 397, 769 Curtiss, Polly, 397 Cusack, Martin, 492 INDEX OF NAMES. 819 Custer, Gen. G. A., 590, 595 Juster, T. W., 126 cutcheon, B. M., 368, 752 Cutcheon, L. D., 264 Cutcheon, L. M., 430 Cutler, Robert, 234, 431, 498 Czerwiflski, Frank, 344 Ii~aguerre, 254 Daib, J. L., 302 flle, James, 3I9 D'Ale, John, 394 Dalls, 0 L., 702 Dal~y, Henry,, 318 Dald~an, B., 334 Dalman, G., 327 Damsky, A. S., 343, 403 Damsk6y F.- S.-, 562 Danforth E., 221, 222 Danforth, H. J., 257 Daniels, A. J., 223, 225, 226, 238, 470, 543 Daniels, M'rs. A. J, 245, 247, 252 Daniels, EliZ11, 283 Daniels, G. WV., 403, 764 Daniels, L. J., 86 Daniels, T. I., 71, 385, 389 Daniell, Mary E., 429 Dapper, E. A., 7 4 Darling, Mary L., 522 Darragh, J. C., 470, 473, 673, 685 Darrow, G. C., 519 Dart, Elijah, 224, 497 Dart, Johann, 571 Datema, H., 336 Daugherty, M. A., 310 Davenport, Ida, 234 Davidson, A. G., 28 5 Davidson, A. J., 472 Davidson, Charlotte, 283 Davidson, Miss Diantha, 307, 311 Davidson, G. H., 395 Davidson, Mrs. G. I., 454 Davidson, J. F., 308 Davidson, L. C., 280, 403, 663 Davidson, Minerva A., 460 Davidson,Robert, 283, 394 Davidson,Wm. C., 6o, 307, 308, 309, 311, 312, 340, 389, 393, 488, 663 Davies, A. WV., 387 Davies, Benj., 387 Davis, A. C., 388 Davis, Amelia F., 622 Davis, Arnot, 736 Davis, A. S., 30I Davis, Mrs. Cornelia, 479 Davis, Dixon, 219 Davis, Ebenezer, 20, 72, 88, 286, 287, 389, 488, 539 Davis, Euphemia, 219, 322 Davis, E. W., 59, 72, 73, 77, 86, 87, 100, I43, 219, 224, 280, 387, 402, 736 Davis, F. M., 684 Davis, G. A., 469. Davis, G. N., 366, 574 Davis, H. W., 179, 539 Davis, I. D., 388 Davis, J. A.; 388, 74I Davis, James, 20, 72, 93, 385, 389, 488, 5i6 Davis, J. E., 4 02 Davis, J. N., 181, 228, 251, 262, 263, 390, 393, 394, 403, 404 Davig, John, 388, 488 Davis, Laura S., 237 Davis, L. H., 3I9 Davis, Lorenzo, I78 Davis, Louise, 696 Davis, Mary A., 539 Davis, Nelson, 401, 403 Davis, Peter, 543 Davis, Rebecca, 622 Davis, H. W., 228, 584 Davis, Samuel, 490, 49I Davis, Thomas, 280 Davi~, Vinett, 322 Davis, Violetta, 623 Davis, Washington, I48 Davis, W. E., 387 Davis, Wealthy M., i01, 623 Davis, W. R., 75, 388 Dawson, Charles, 458 Day, Miss, 51, 219 Day, F. B., 228, 394, 403, 480, 5011 Day, Loren, 504 Day, R. L. & Co.,I6 Day, Rosanna R., 480 Dayrell, E. H., 536 Dean, C. B.,'401, 402, 458 Dean, Ellen, 23I Dean, Harry, 6o, io8, I56, 307, 309, 346, 401, 411 Dean, Harry K., 273 Dean, J. J., 388' Dean, J. M., 5o8 Dean, Mrs S. M.. 232 Deane, Alex., 307 Deane, C. H., 576 Deane, Ellen L., 309 Deane, G. S., uS8, 227, 309. 356, 510 Deane, Mrs. G. 5., 309,3 3I1 De Baun, J. Y., 337, 338 De Boer, Menno, 335 De Bruyn, Abraham, 402 DeCamp. W. H., 249, 250, 276, 586, 694, 701, 702, 707, 728 Decker, Abram, 54 Decker, H., 474 Decker, H. E., 323 De Cou, C. 5., 389 De Cou, B. F., 388 Deemes. Michael, 294 De Fouw, M., 333 De Graaf, Berend, 334, 402 De Graaf; Berend, Jr., 338, 470 De Graaf, Gerrit, 228, 333, 334 De Graaf, H. J., 334 De Graaf, John, 395 De Graaf, J. 5., 334 De Graff, G. H., 395 De Groot, G., 328 De Haan, Albert, 332 De Haan, G., 337 De Haan, Gysbertus, 334 De Haan, Jan, 334 De Haan, John, 272 De Jaeger, Martin', 402 De Jong, Cornelius, 329 De Jonge, Hendrikus, 400 De Jonge, Jacobus, 334 De Jonge J J., 228 De Jonge, John, 402 De Kruif, John, 402 De Kuninck, Father, 341 Delaney, John, 543 De La Mar, John, 7I1z De La Vergne, Susan, 711I De Leeuw, Adrian, 329 De Long, Moses, 312, 402, 403 Delony, Martha, 119 De Meester, J.,-333, 334 Den Braber, Win., 334 Denio, Grace, 248 Denison, Asa, 387 Denison, A. W., 460 Denkison, Bertie, 460 Denison, Eliza R., 460 Denison, G. H., 387 Denison, H. C., 387, 510 Denison, L. A., 460 Denison, W. C., 387, 460 Denman, Win., 314 Dennis, H. H., 673, 685 Dennis, John, 575 Denouville, Marquis, 8i Densmore, Edwin, 5oo De Nuit, J. H., 480 Dc Pagter, Isaac, 329 De Pew, Miss H. 5., 241I De Pree, Peter, 330 DePuy, Linus, 698, 703 De Rosset, F. A., 298 De Ruyter, John, 402 Dettenthaler, J., 666 Devendorf, Adelbert, 402 Devendorf, Daniel, i8i Devendorf, J. J.,-389 Devendorf, J. N., 487 De Vore, Mrs. Adelaide, 358 De Vore, J. A., 31i6, 703 De Vree, Andrew, 329 De Vries, E., 348. De Vries, Henry, 401 Dewey, Egbert, 389 Dewey, H. E., 277 De Winter, M., 333, 334 Dexter, G. W., I95 Dexter, Samuel, 19, 20, 54, 55, 57 2Dexter, Mrs. Samuel. 53 Dexter, Warner, 54, 59 De Young, Adrian, 402 De Young, 9-. J., 737 De Young, James, 365 Dibble, J. B., 375 Dickey, Helen L., 235 Dickey, Jane C., 232 Dickie, Samuel, 198 Dickinson, Annette C., 222 Dickinson. Carrie L., 231 Dickins~on, Don M., 399, 7I2 Dickinsor* G. W. 388, 427, 5o8 Dickinson, W. H., I8I, 487 Dietrich, C. J., 241, 319, 5o8 Dietz, Louis, 442 Dikeman, Aaron, 6o, iiiii 121, 295, 385, 388, 391, 393, 400, 486, 519 Dikemnan, E. B., J147, 395. 403, 486, 510, 513, 543, 698 Dillenback, G. W., 314, 316, 349 Dillenback, J. D., 200, 264, 270, 271, 273, 276 Disbrow, E. D., 695, 696, 703 Dishman, 5. 0., 394, 395.. 402, 480 Divine, Westbrook, 366 Doan, G. L., 395 Doan, Titus, 526 Dockeray, James, 386, 387 Dockeray, Miss, 238 Dodds, Alexander, 283, 450 Dodds, Lafayette, 316 Dodds, M. L, 314 Dodge, Jo )n, 20 Dodge, G. W., 402 Doetma. T., 336 Dogger Peter, 447 Dohany, James, 123 Doherty, Patrick, i8o Dolan, C W., 365 Dolbee, James, 413 Dole, Geo. H., 346, 402 Dole, Mattie, 237 Dole, Win., 401 Dommerlin, G. W., 402 Donaldson, A. W, 283 Donaldson, Prof., 170 Donavin, P. P., 3I4 Dondero, Charles, 123 Donker, M., 333, 334 Donnelly, Dr., 284 Donnelly, Helen M., 623 Donnelly, John, 284 D'Ooge, Jennie, 250 D'Ooge, L., 324 D'Ooge, Miss, 258 Doolittle, H. W-, 713 Doornink, D. J., 274. 402, 698 Doran, H. E., 373 Doran, Julia, 235 Doran, Margaret, 236 Doran, Peter, 751 820 INDEX OF NAMES. Doran, Thomas, 394, 395 Dorland, W. A., 728 Dosker, B., 328 Dosker, N. H., 328, 329 Doty, E. F., 401 Doty, J. L., 531 Doty, Pauline, 85 Doubleday, E. M., 393,394 Dougherty, Elizabeth, 683 Douglas, C. G., 534 Douglas. S. A., 196, I97 Douglass, Mrs. S. J., 359 Douglass, S. T.,173I Dow, Neal, r97 Dowling, G. E., 687 Doxtater, N. J., 316 Doyle, Andrew, 395 Doyle, Florence L E., 236 Doyle, Mary E., 236 Doyle, Michael, 491 Drake, Abraham, 243 Drake, Hattie M, 243, 256 Drake, Leonora I., 756 Drake, Phoebe M., 243 Draper, J. W., 254 Dregge, John, 541 Dressander, P. B, 204 Drew, A. B., 502 Drew, Abel, 6o Drew, Francis, 225 Drew, J. A. 31 Drew, J. W., 413 Droste, C. M., 696, 697, 698, 703 Drukker, Hendrik, 335 Drukker, L., 338 Drury, H. H., 228, 229, 48i Dubois, C. H., 270 Dubridge, Margaret A., 232 Ducheney, W. J., 218 Duffield, S. P., 417 Duga, J. A, 388 Duiker, R., 335 Dunbar, James, 316 Duncan, J. R., 316 Dunham, E. M., 716 Dunham, John, 687 Dunham, M. L., 75I Dunham, Mrs. Julia, 687 Dunham, Mrs. O. M., 283 Dunham, Wm., 273, 543, 65I, 687, 777 Dunn, W. A., 402 Dunn, J. K., 246 Dunnett, Wm, 312 Dunphy, M. J., 499 DuPee, D. C., 313 Duquesne de Menneville, Marq., 8i Durfee, Allen, 412, 771 Durfee, H. N., 127 Durham, Silas, 204 Duris, John, 401 Duyser, Michael, 332 Dwight, Maria E, 232 Dwinnell, Susan, 62, 85 Dyer, C. H., 728 Dygert, A. J., 273 Dygert, I. S., 273, 269, 404 Dyk, F. J., 324 Dykema, J., 336 Dykema, Kryn, 698 Dykstra, J. W., 339 Eagan, Esther, 650 Eager, James, i55 Earl, L. W., 312 Earle, Bessie, 353, 697,703 Earle, E. S., 572, 575 Earle, J. E., 189, 228, 271, 483, 687 Earle, Lawrence, 256, 274 Earle, Mrs. Martha G 682 Earle, N. A., 395, 755 Earle, W. S., 271, 471 Earp, Samuel, 297, 298, 299, 354 Eastman, Abby, E., 419 Eastman, W. H., 179 Eaton, C. A., 300 Eaton, C. W., 270, 274, 356, 394 Eaton, E. G., 487 Eaton, Hairy, 60, 87, 88, 97, I09. 384, 40I, 653 Echternach, Wm., 304 Eddy, Barton, 388 Eddy, James, 286 Eddy, T. M., 311 Edge, P. H., i86 Edgecomb, Mrs. C. E., 486 Edgerton, J. K, 532 Edie, J. 0., 694, 697, 703 Edie, John, 703 Edison, G. M., 6'4, 685 Edison, Isaac, 234 Edmondson, Wm., 452, 458 Edsell, W. C., 530, 531 Edwards, C. S., 272 Edwards, E. G., 284, 704 Edwards, H. C., 283 Eggers, E. A., 238 Eggleston, E. S., 393, 737, 747, 754 Eggleston, James, 465 Ehrenstrasser, J. G., 342, 344, 41o Eichelsdoerfer, Wm, 271 Eikhof, F., 342 Eikhoff, Joseph, 487 Eisenhardt, Jacob, 395 Ekster, P., 336 Elbert, J. N., 670 Elder. Wm. H., 341 Eldred, A. J., i68, 309, 310 Eldred, Caleb, 46 Eldred, Mary, 237 Eldridge, A. D., 388 Elenbaas, Joshua. 326 Eleveld, P. H., 348 Ellens, J., 336 Ellet, Charles, 53, 665 Elliott, E. B., 239 Elliott, F. C., 361 Elliott, J. T., 228, 394 Ellis, E. R., 238, 717, 722 Ellis, John, 74, 258 Ellis, Dr. John, 717, 722 Ellsby, D. B., 543 Ellsworth, H. L., I9, 20, 232 Elsworth, A. M., 388 Ely, Ralph, 584, 597 Ema, Burt, 402 Emerson, C. S., 270 Emerson, Edward, 72, 294 Emerson, E. W., 652 Emerson, W. A. 270 Emery, D. C. 319 Emery, D. E, 403 Emery, Jennie A., 232 Emery, J. J., 263, 268 Emery, Joseph, 737 Emery, S. A., 251 Emery, W. S., 470 Emmer, Joseph, 396, 444 Emmerson, Charles, 268 Emmerson, E., 670 Emmerson, R. W, 254 Emmett, T. A., 726 Emmons, H. H., 746 Emmons, N. D., 389 Engle, D.. 312 Englemann, Michael, 684 English, A. Annette, 650 English, Abigail, 650 English, Edson, 650 English, D. E., 87 Ennes, C. E.: 275 Ep-pe-sau-se, 27 Epstein, E., 301 Erikson, P., 304. Ermatinger, C. O., 31 Estabrook, Joseph, 751 Escott, E. B., 710, 728 Escott, Mrs. E. B., 253 Escott, F. H., 728 Escott, Henry, 557, 728 Escott, Joseph, 308 Escott, Mary, 446, 623 Estes, Anna, 235 Esveld, A., 327, 329 Evans, Amanda J, 723 Evans, D. W., 60, 143 Evans, G. C., 97, 393, 559, 562, 563 Evans, James, 286 Evans, Mrs., 315 Evart, Harriet, 696 Everett, A. C., 272 Everett, E. P, 369 Everett, Franklin, 39, 76, 78. 87. 144, 224, 237, 239, 240, 249, 276, 393, 499 Everett,Mrs Franklin, 239 Everhart, Ella, 237 Ewing, James, 307, 308 Faase, Cent, 334 Faenger, Julius, 302 Failing, F. J., 704 Failing, J. K., 29I Fair, Campbell, 244, 269, 298, 355, 435, 697 Fair, Mrs. Campbell, 355 697 Fairbanks, J. D., 584 Fairchild, A. B., 388 Fairchild, Benj, 388 Falkel, Alfred, 479 Fallas, 'H. B., 228, 751 Fallass, Wesley, 307 Farmer, Silas, 591 Farmer, Thomas, 403 Farmer, Thomas, Jr., 449 Farnham, Amelia D., 318 Farnham, Miss M. A, 257 Farnam, Triphena D., 318 Farnsworth, A. B., 404 Farnsworth, Elon, 735 Farr, J S, 363, 379, 394, 403, 663 Farr, Wait, 60 Farragut, Admiral, 113,408 Farrar J. S., 585 Farrington, T. B., 209 Farwell, J C., 25I Farwell, J H., 412 Faulhaber, Frederick, 304 Faulkner, James, 187 Faxon, E. N., 88, 318, 356, 40I Fay, Rev., 281 Feakins, Edward, 6o Fearing, C. J., 69I Felch, Alpheus, 83, 197, 73I Felker, H J., 229 Felker, Mrs. H. J., 253 Felker, P. H, 270 Fennell, Patrick, 452 Fenton, W. M., 197, 584 Fenton, W. W, 389 Fenwick, Bishop, 340 Ferguson, Andrew, 92, 438 Ferguson, Tames, 268 Ferguson, Jane, 513 Ferguson, Mattie, 576 Ferguson, Misses, 572 Ferguson, Sarah, 318 Ferris, Benjamin, 427 Ferris, J. F., 481 Ferris, J. M., 238, 323 Ferris, L. G., 702 Ferris, TV. P. H, 401 Ferry, A. P., 387 Ferry, T. W., 83, 368 Ferry, Wm. M, 47, 71, 78 Ferry, Mrs. W. M., 221 Fessenden, W. P, 436 Fiebig, Henry, 302, 455 Fiebig, H. W., 458 Field, Abby, 234 Field, Emma, 234, 237, 238, 290 Field, G. A., 390 Field, Isaac, 421 Field, John, 421 Field, L. D., 459 Field, Willis, 251 Filius, Andries, 334 Findlay, Harriet J., I87 Fillmore, Millard, 118 Finn, Alice, 237 INDEX OF NAMES.82 810.11 Finn, Michael, 402 Finn, Patrick, 344, 563 Finch, Rob-ert, 517 Findlater, Win., 314 Finnegan, John, 470 Finney, J. T., 86, 87, 477, 487, 559, 560 Finney, N. H, 6o, 73, 74, 220, 652 Finney, S. E., 345 Fish, Mr., 424 Fish, J. G., 3 Fish, J, R., 316 Fish, H. M, 316 Fisher, A. W, 283, 284 Fisher, Mrs. A. W., 283 Fisher, D. E., 559 Fisher, Mrs. D. E., 559 Fisher, E. B., 264,267, 269, 66o Fisher, F. J., 365 Fisher, F. K., 42I Fisher, Francis, 420 Fisher, J. G,256 Fisher, J.- J,492 Fisher,, J. N,395 Fisher, Miss M., 3I4 Fisk, C. B. I97 Fisk, Harriet, 65 Fisk, J.- P., 490 Fisk, J. W., 65 Fisk, Mrs. J. W., 65 Fisk, Nathaniel. io6, 300 Fisk, Richmond, 197, 349 Fitch, A. M-, 4 4 308 Fitch, C. L., 747 Fitch, Cordelia T., 51i Fitch, F. WV., 390 Fitch, G A, 53I Fitch, G. C., I 8I, 228, 394, 452, 510 Fitch, Mrs. G. C., 252, 256, 355, 697 Fitch, J. 0., 452, 504 Fitch, J. S., 197 Fitch, Lemon, 5II Fitch, Marietta, I24 Fitch, Norton, 387 Fitting, H. H, 403 Fitts, Anna, L., 436 Fitts, Florence M., 760 FitzGerald, J.- C., 479, 678, 681 749, 755, 758 FitzGerald, Mrs. J.C., 252 Fitzgerald, Wm, 45, 2I7 Fitzpatrick, Michael, 187 Fitzpatrick,,W. B., i86 Fitzpatrick, WVm, 403 Fleming, WV. H., 357 Fleming, Win., 533 Fleming, Wm., A., 319, 320O Fletcher, D. G., 401I Fletcher, Ella, 383 Fletcher, H. T, 255 Fletcher, L. J., 349 Fletcher, T. G., 263 Fletcher, N. A., 229 Fletcher, WV. A., 73 1 Fleure. Felicite, 623 Fluhrer, Charles, 170, 348, 349, 435 Folger, J. B., 300, 492 Follett, Alice, 752 Follett, Benjamin, 752 Follett, L. D, 395, 74I Folston, Mary, 236 Fongers, K., 335 Foote, E. H., 473, 478 Foote, Elijah, 312, 496 Foote, 0 H., 388, 510, 588 Foote, P. 5, P33 Foote, Thaddeus, 366, 401, 593, 596, 684, 737 Foppe, Win., 334 Forbush, Rev., 347 Force, J. P., 314 Force, Wilhur, 258 Ford, C. Estella, 234 Ford, Mrs. Emily. 283 Ford, M. H., 83. 755 Formhy, Miss M. A, 494 Forsyth, Flora, 237 Foster, C. B., 313, 314 Foster, Cornelia, 623 Foster, D N., 270 Foster, Mrs. Fanny L., 683 Foster, F. D'A., 444 Foster, F. W., 445, 510 Foster, Joanna W., 664 Foster, John, 664 Foster, Norman, 387 Foster, Rebecca M., 664 Foster, Sarah E., 314 Foster, W. D., 83, 87, 109, ii6, i69, I8I, 222, 227, 251, 391, 393, 394, 407, 444, 445, 446, 449, 517, 531, 546. 674 Fowle, A. H., 1 82, 252, 257, 363, 379 Fowle, R. H, 300 Fowler, WV. H, 460, 687, 690 Fowler, Mrs. WV. H., 654 Fox, Anna M\. Rucker, 430, 431, 432 Fox, Anne S. Crof~on, 430 Fox, Charles, 316, 430, 431, 432, 433, 689 774 Fox, Rev. Charles, 430, 43I, 432 Fox, Mrs. C. H, 315 Fox, C, M., 254 Fox, C. 5., 312 Fox, Cornelius, 400 Fox, E. C., 299, 430, 431, 432, 433, 574, 66o, 685, 688, 774 Fox, G. T., 430 Fox, Dr. G T-, 432 Fox, James, 228 6 Fox, J. M.-, 117, i6,385, 389, 391, 393, 517, 531 Fox, J. W., 480, 481 Fox, Lady, 432 Fox, P. M., 54 Fox, P. V,283,5~86 Fox, P. W 3 389 Fox, Sir William, 432 Fox, XV. R., 313, 442 Fralick, Ahraham, 68o Fralick, Henry, 169, 363, 407, 468, 477, 507, 674, 678, 68o, 68i Fralick, H. S., 68i France, W. W., 449, 643 Fraser, A. D, 752 Frederick, Frank, 402 Frederick, Mrs. James, 306 Freehorn, J. G., 290 Freeman, Ahiah, 623 Freeman, B. F., 388 Freeman, David, 20 Freeman., Mrs. Lamnia, 227 Freeman, Lewis, 20 Freeman, Mrs. and Miss, 283 Freere, W., 333 Freese, J H., 307 Fremont, J. C., 113, 196, 197, 677 French, A., 313 French, C. A., 263, 270 French, G. V., 564 French, Henry, 402 French, T. A., 2 73 French, John, 394, 395 French, Miss,, 224 French, 5., 289 French, T. D, 510 Frencken, H., 34I,-344 Frey, J. H., 472 Friant, Cornelius, 429 Friant, Huldah (Hatch), 429 Friant, Thomas, 300, 429 Friedrich, J. A. J., 258 Friedrich, Julius. 302 Friedrich, Paul W., 258 Frieling, W. H., 336 Friend, C. P., 388 Friend, John, 6o Frincke. C. J. T., 304 Fritz, Philip?, 458 Fritz, William, 304 Frontenac, Comte, 8i Frost, C. L., 320 Frost, G. 5., 540 Frost, M, 292 Frost, WA. D., 373, 390 Frueh, F', 3I7 Fry, J. H, 3I4 Fry, Mrs. J., 314 Fuller, Asa, 62, 85 Fuller, C. E, 238. 251I Fuller, E. D., 269 Fuller, Edson, 227, 393 Fuller, E. P., 354, 559 Fuller, Mrs E.P., 354,355, 646, 697 Fuller, P. C, I97 Fuller, Ph. C, 299, 355, 648, 68i, 697 Fuller, Samuel L., 6o, 72, 294, 298, 509, 510, 512, 543, 648, 652 Fuller, Mrs. S. L., 197, 247, 252 Fuller, Win., 704 Fuller, W. N., 271, 274, 275, 291 Fulton, Win., 492, 665 Furlong, John, 40I Furman, F. H., 430 Furman, J. E, 313 Fyfe, Andrew, 268, 743 Gaffin, H. D. F., 306 Gage, A., 564 Gage, A. L., 57I Gage,. Franklin, 308 Gage, G. W., 267, 269 Gage, H. R., 269 Gage, Win, 5 Gale, Louis, 27I Galissonere, Count, 8x Gallup, James, 289, 292, 363, 404, 66i, 728 Gallup, T. P., 491, 498 Galusha, J. B., 220 Galusha, 0. B., 257 Gates, C. S, 27I Gamble, Robert, 142 Ganoe, Jesse, 5I9, 520 Gardiner, W. H., 477 Gardinier, Cora, 233 Gardner, Helen, 237 Gardner, Lydia, 382 Gardner, Ransom, 529 Gardner,Washington, 135, 368 Garfield, C. W., 349, 5o6, 507, Po8, 509, 542, 543, 684 Garfield, J. A., 136, 170, 197, 243, 408 Garfield, S. M., 388, 684 Garlock, Alfred, 691, 704 Garlock, Clara, 704 Garlock, May. 704 Garlow, Leonard, 402 Garratt, R. N., 401 Gaudern, A., 314 Gavett, W. A., 536 Gay, G. W, 283, 390, 404, 464, 465, 469, 538, 685 Gay, 5 5., 463 Gaylord, Harvey, 246, 438 Gee, W. 5., 514 Geib, Valentine, 387 Geis, Benjamin, 300 Gelock, John, 229,334, 337, 338, 455, 458 Gelock, Martin. 455 k-enereaux, Lucilia, 114 Genereaux, Louis, 77 Genia, Henry, 62, 65, 66 Genia, Joseph, 65 Gentz, C., 317 Gerechter. B, 301 Gerlach, A. G., 244 Gerould, Ljman, 387 Gerry, Ruth A., 7I2 Gessler, John, 204 Gezon, John, i86, 400 Gezon, John, Jr, 697 Gezon, Johannes, 334 Ghyssels, A., 336 8.0.12 822 ~~~~~INDEX OF NAMES. Gibbons, Thomas, 183 Gibson, A. R., 490 Gibson, G. S., N3~ Gibson, Isaac, 401 Gibson, Win., 387 Gidley, T D., 197 Gifford, E. B., 269 Giffin, J M., 388 Gilbert, C. P., 216 Gilbert, Mrs. Elizabeth T., 289 Gilbert, F. B., 214, 246, 291, 377, 403, 497, 518, 678, 68o,.689 Gilbert, Frances A., 454 Gilbert, H. C., 3I, 44 Gilbert, J. E., 311 Gilbert, 0. B., 91 Gilbert, S. H., 454 Gilbert, T. D., 7I, 83, 91, 125, I126, 135, 138, I39, 144, 194, 214, 215, 222, 227, 246, 288, 353, 354, 363. 377, 395, 403, 407, 408, 409, 411I, 5i8, 66o, c78, 679, 68o, 68i, 689, 696, 784 Gilbert, Mrs. T. D., 408, 679 Gilbert, Thomas, 679 Gilbertson, Martin, 313 'Gildersleeve, H. L., 279 Gildersleeve, Mrs. J. L., 279 Gill, Caroline, ioi Gill, C E, 534 Gill, Godfrey, i8i Gill, M. P., i8o Gill, Patrick, 402 Gillam, Mar~ V., 386 Gilleland, Clarissa M., 622 Gillem, A. C., 579, 58o, 582 Gillett, A., 316 Gillett, J. K., 310 Gillespie, G. D., 137, 298, 300, 695 Gilman, W. W., 20 Ginn, Agnes R., 2311 Girrard, Mrs. Therese, 62 Gissler, Felix, 458 Given, J. V., 318 Gleason, C H., 290, 712, 75' Glenn', Anna E., 503 Glenn, Sarah, 503 Glenn, T. T., 503 Glover, S. W. 321 Godfrey, C. R., 251 Godfrey, Frank, 264 Godfrey, Freeman, 5, 2I2, 403, 418, 419, 504, 684, 763 Godfrey, Lillian, 236 Godfrey, S. F., 418, 419, 504 Godfroy, F. N., I5, i8i Godfroy, J. F., 114, I43, 393 Godfroy, Louis, 670 Godfroy, Richard, 20, 45, 47, 59, 62, 72, 73, 87, 97, 100, 101, 102, i88, 340, 422, 501, 518, 652, 670 Godfroy, W. H, 6o, 71I, 97. 114, 394, 401, 521,559 Godfroys, the, 58, 90 Godwin, Augustine, 389 Godwin, Caroline, 651 Godwin, Mrs. Caroline, 687 Godwin, Charlotte 651 Godwin, Emeline, 687 Godwin, G. C., 272, 394, 745, 746, 749 Godwin, 0. H., 228, 384 Godwin, W. R:, 59, 100, 387, 389, 65i, 687, 749 Goebel, John, 410 Goetz, Adolph, 204 Goff, E. F., 290, 292 Gompers, Samuel, 141 Goodman, R. 5, 320 Goodrich, Bessie, 237 Goodrich, Hattie M., 237 Goodrich, H. C., 491 Goodrich, J. 5., 73I Goodrich, P. M., 482, 654 Goodrich, Mrs. P. M., 252, 253 Goodwill, Mrs. Mary, 3I3 Goodwin, D4niel, 73I Goossen, J. B., 255 Gordon, A. E., 262 Gordon, G. H., 59, 78, 85, 387, 388, 425 Gordon, Jennie, 235 Gordon, J. Wright, 83 Gordon, Susan, 23I Gorham, C. E., 533, 534 Gorham, F. A., 534 Gorham, Mrs. F. A., 355, 697 Gorham, J. M., 403 Gorham, S. H., 587 Gosa, Indian, 50 Goss, Dwight, 22, 737 Gould, George, 477 Gould, J. T., 373, 386 Gould, Nathan, 386, 510 Gould, W. W., 283 Gouldsbury, B. F., 28i, 403 Gouwe, Jacob, 339 Gower, J. Z., 53I Grady, H. B., 205 Grady, H. P., 374 Grady, John, 394, 395 Grady, Mary, 374 Grady, Patrick, 402 Graff, J. F., 425 Graff, Peter, 673 Graff, P. M., 395 Graham, E., 511 Graham, Isabella, 5I3 Graham, John, 311 raham, R. D., 509 granger, Mrs. C. H., 355, 697 Granger, G. W, 564 Granger, Gordon, 58 7 Granger, H. W., 401, 594, 597 Granger, J. G., 44 8 Granger, Julia, 747 Granger, Julius, 120, 524, 1 6o Granger, Peter, 394 Granger, Sylvester, 6o, 87, 251, 261, 371, 743, 753 Granger, Warren, 417 Grant, Elijah, 20 Grant, U. 5., 197, 265, 408, 596 Grauer, Carl, 304 Gravelle, Dr. E., 652, 691 Graves, Annie, 598 Graves, Edmond, 497 Graves, Frank, 584 Graves; G. D., 88 Graves, G. G., 3I2 Graves,, John B, 228 Graves, L., 598 Graves, Mrs. R. C., 257 Graves, 5., 324 Graves, Mrs. Sarah, 345, 346 Graves, Samuel, 276, 282 Graves, S. C., 691, 695, 696, 697, 704 Graves, W. C., 268 Gray, Edward, 588 Gray, E. L., 251 Gray, Eva, 361 Gray, George, 129, 169, 200, 238, 593, 745, 747, 754 Gray, Horace, 59, 72 Gray, Jedediah, 117 Gray, J. H., 227, 40I Gray, Joel, 528 Gray, Lyman, 59, 73, 87, 518 Gray, Susan M., 565 Grays, the, 100 Greb, N., 350 Greeley, Horace, I97 Greeley, S. S. N., i68, 288, 593 Greeley, Mrs. S. S. N., 575 Green, Hezekiah, Sr., 6o Green, Hezekiah, Jr., 452 Green, J., 318 Green, Mary L., ii8, 223,,622 Green, Sebastian, 402 Green, S. M., 7311 Green, Win., 312, 472 Greenbaum, Isaac, 402 Greene, A. D.-, 395 Greene, Clara C., 232 Greene, D. M., 696, 697, 705 Greene, Florence N., 237 Greenly, Thomas, 575 Greenly, Win. L., 83 Greenway, J. B., 264 Gre'eson, W. A., 231, 250 Gregory, Mrs. Emily, 289 Greil, A. A., 497 Greiner, David, 304 Greiner, R. C., S 14 Greulich, Charles, 410 Greulich, Win.,39 Grey, F. D., 529 Griffith, Helen, 396 Griffith, J. M.,49 Griffin, John, 731 Griggs, G. W., 507, 510 684 Grimsley, Edith, 598 Grinnell, C. L., 543 690 Grinnell, Henry, 389, 407, 497, 540, 543, 648, 66i, 698 Grinnell, 0. 5., 306 Griswold, A. D., 746 Griswold, J. B.~, 228, 229, 395, 514, 694, 695, 696, 697, 698, 705 Griswold, Scott, 389 Groendyk, Jacob, 339 Groeneweg, Peter, 329 Groger, C. C., 395 Groggel, Wilhelm, 304 Grootenhuis, Bernard, 323. Grooters, E., 329 Grooters, H. J, 332,-.rooters, J. B., 332 Grove, J. F., 394, 694, 698, 705, 710 Grove, Mrs. J. F., 766 Grove, T. M., 324 Grove, W. E., i86, 319, 401, 737 Gruber, J., 348 Grummond, Melnott, 268 Grune, John, 342 Guild, Abby, 58 Guild, Austin, 2I9 Guild, Consider, 55 58, 63, 665 Guild, Daniel, 58, 479 Guild, Edward, 54 58, 59, 2I9 Guild, Elvira E., 58, 219, 266, 622 Guild, Emily, 58, 102, 174, 219, 622 Guild, Erastus, 219 Guild, Harriet, 55 58, 62, 85. 174, 622 Guild, Irene A., 623 Guild, Joel, 1, 20, 54, 55, 57, 58, 59, 64, 72, 77 85, 87, I03, 122, I67, 219, 266, 362, 388, 425, 505, 645, 647, 691 Guild, Lucy E., 58, 623 Guild, Mariam, 219 Guild, Mary L., 5 Guild, Olive, 58, 219 Guild, S. C., 584 Gulliford, J. B., 313, 404 Gumaer, Hiram, 404 Gunn, W. 5., 347, 439, 447, 448, 492, 522, 654, 657, 684 Gunn, Mrs. W. 5, 347 Gunnison, Delony, 557 Gunnison, J. W.,.21, 119, 557 Gust, Roelof, 339 INDEX OF NAMES. 823 Guy, Fannie J., 325 Haak, E. C., 251 Haan, G. T., 728 Haan, Timothy, 27I, 402 Habenstreittenger, John, 492 Hackley C. H., 68i, 689 Hagar, J. M., 542 Hahnemann, Samuel, 717 Hahnes, Daniel, 306 Haifley, Peter. 773 Haight, T. D., 293, 294, 469, 470 Haight, Mrs. T. D., 294 Hains, Alanson, 20 Haines, C. A., 286 Hake, John, 342, 402, 403 Hake, W. F., 574, 696, 705 Hake, Wm., 20I, 205, 342, 459 Hakenson, C., 304 Haldane, J. M., 40I, 429, 662 Haldane, Wm., 60, 64, 65, io8, 289, 356, 377, 451, 461, 462, 477. 763, 767 Haldane, Mrs. Wm., 461 Haldimand, Frederick, 81 Hale, J. P., 197 Hale, W. E., 379 Hale, W. S., 387 Hall, A. Y., 317 Hall, Bert, 268 Hall, Eliza, 486 Hall, Erastus, 87, 295, 393 Hall, F. A., 684 Hall, Francillo, 394 Hall, Frederick, 74, 5I6 Hall, G. A. 274 Hall, Louisa, 441 Hall, Lowell, 394 Hall, Silas, 182, 389, 39.;, 400, 571, 662 Hallack, J. W., 271 Ham, Alphonso, 465 Hamblin, C. H., 267, 268 Hamblin, Nelson, 401, 402 Hamelin, Augustus, 31 Hamilton, D. H., 255 Hamilton, Henry, 8I Hamilton, John, 388 Hamilton, Mrs. P. L., 232 Hamilton, S. L., 314 Hammatt, Hannah C., 648 Hammerschlag, Hermann, 271 Hammond, Mrs. E. J., 354 Hammond, H. L., 288 Hammond, J. H., 293 Hampton, J. S., 402, 493 Hanchet, Augustus, 251 Hanchet, B. S., 484 Hanchet, E. E., 291 Hanchet, G. A., 254 Hanchet, J. P., 496 Hanchet, Lizzie R., 235 Hanchett, Miss, 290 Hanchett, Mrs. Edward, 290, 291 Hancock, John, 435 Hancock, W. S., I97 Handley, Dudley, i8I, 490 Haney, Elijah, 469 Haney, G. M., 469 Haney, J. B, 228, 270 Hann, J. G., 267 Hannett, J. C., 402 Hannish, Anton, 123 Hansen, Andrew, 255 Hardwick, Wm., 421 Hardy, G. W., 299 Hardy, W. J., 387 Harford, W. M., 267, 272 Harlan, B. A., i86, 200, 40I, 684, 734, 74I Harlan, Mrs. B. A., 256 Harmer, Gen., 26 Harmon, F., 286 Harmon, L. N., 97 Harper, J. W., 317 Harran, Amy, 622 Harriman, C. A., 137 Harrington, C. D., 357 Harrington, E. F., 218, 264, 267, 499 Harris, I. V., 97, 363 Harris, J. H., 402, Harris, J. M., 228, 267, 745 Harris, John, 544 Harris, R. C., 530 Harris, S. G., i68 Harrison, Benjamin, 197 Harrison, Bertha L., 454 Harrison, G. E., 454 Harrison, Morton, 454 Harrison, Roy G., 454 Harrison, Thomas, 3II Harrison, Wm., 312, 313, 453, 454, 455, 543, 785 Harrison, Wm. H., 26, 82, 83, I97 Harrison, Wm., Jr., 454 Hart, Charlotte, 297 Hart, R. P., 20 Hart, S. A., 201, 300 Hart, W. W., 273 Harting, Marinus, 256, 323 Harting, Samuel, 365 Hartman, C. S., 269, 568 Hartman, F., 317 Hartmann, Frederick, 442 Hartmann, H. J., 442 Hartongue, Richard, 531 Hartwell, O. C., 572 Harvey, C. L., 385, 737, 745 Harvey, E. D., 576 Harvey, John, 728 Harwood, F. W., 517 Hastings, E. P., I9, 20, 557 Hastings, H. F., 660 Hatch, Damon, 117, 295, 464, 509, 510, 765 Hatch, Miss E. E., 359 Hatch, Ira S., 97, 167, i8i, 182, 393 Hatch, Julia M., 683 Hatch, Junius H., 74, 230, 645 Hatch, Mrs. Mary, 354 Hatch, M. B., 389 Hatch, Reuben, 75I Hatch, W. W., 425, 495 Hatfield, R. M., I69 Hathaway, C.W., I75,444, 448 Hathaway, Nehemiah, 444 Hathaway, W. M., 228, 263, 269, 270 Hatheway, Abigail D., 648 Hatheway, David, 648 Hatheway, D. G., 648,649 Hatheway, Gilbert, 648, 649 Hatheway, Joseph, 648 Hatheway, R. C., 648, 649 Hauser, C. A., 142 Hauser, H., 342 Hauser, Orson, 320 Havens, H. H., 388 Hawkins, L. E., 404, 470, 66o, 685 Hawkins, James, 217 Hawkins, J. S., 283 Hawks, W. B., 195, 386 Hawley, A. E., 448 Hawley, G. F., 286 Hawley, Hattie R., 232 Haxton, Benj., i8i Hayes, J. P., 402 Hayes, R. B., 197 Hayes, W. A., 395 Haynes, Isaac, 375, 384, 386 Haynes, W. A., 283 Haynes, William, 402 Hayward, H. L., 349 Hayward, J. H., 698 Hayward, J. W., 395 Hazeltine, C. S., 355, 684, 697, 728 Hazlewood, A., 694, 695, 696, 697, 705 Hazy Cloud, Chief, 29 Headley, J. T., 386 Heald, C. M., 536 Heald, Joseph, 675, 688 Healy, A. M., 534 Healy, Thomas, 88, 103 Heap, D. P., 517 Heart, B., 300 Heath, F. G. 255 Heath, J. L., 559 Heath, L. W., 395 Heath, Washington, 559 Hebard, C. E., 706 Hebard E. A., 389, 706 Heinzelmann, C. F., 455, 458 Heinzelmann, J. G., 496 Heinrich, Joseph, 497 Helmuth, W. F., 726 Hembling, W. D., 403 Hemkes, Gerrit, 244, 337, 360 Hempel, C. J., 277, 717, 723 Hemsley, Geo., 389 Henderson, Mrs. Adelaide, 219, 241 Henderson, C. F., 706 Henderson, C. L., 394,587, 69I, 694, 706 Henderson, Don, 267 Henderson, Ella F., 706 Hendricks, J. M., 365 Hendricks, Martin, 402 Hendrikse, P., 326 Henman, Mary A., 318 Hennig, C. T., 258 HenPy, Albert, 576 Henry, Annette, 256, 591 Henry, Aurelia S., 222 Henry, Dexa E., 233 Henry, James, 746 Henry, W, G., 60, 73, 77, 87, 97, I43 155, 220, 221, 227, 249; 25I, 287, 356, 387, 39I, 59T, 652, 653, 676 728, 743 Henry, Mrs. W. G., 352 Henry, Wm., 530, 531 Henshaw, Miss, 290 Henshaw, Horace, 387,388 Henson, J. S., 285 Herbert, W. H., 315 Herkner, J. C., 487, 574, 575, 57i Hermann; Ritze, 274 Herpolsheimer, W. G., 302, 425, 684 Herrick, E. J., 395, 563 Herrick, G. D., 259 Herrick, Mrs. H. M., 231 Herrick, O. E., 695, 696, 697, 706 Herrmann, Joseph, 562 Herstein, J. C., 330, 331 Heruth, Samuel, 304 Hervey, E. J., 487 Herzer, Gustav, 316 Hess, Fannie, 235 Hess, G. H., 246 Hess. Mrs. M. J., 290 Hester, Myron. 291 Hess, W. T., 468 Hetfield, Sarah A., 420 Hewes, G. W., 28I, 497, 498 Hewitt, W. L., 387 Heyboer, W. J., 365 Hibbard, Milan, 293 Hibbard. Wellington, 403 Hibbard, Mrs.Wellington, 252 Hickey, Alice, 343 Hicks, A. S., 273 Hickson, Joseph, 529 Hiestgnd, I., 294 Higgins, Desdemona S.,675 Higgins, P. C., 675 Higginson, F. J., 97, 294, 387, 691, 728 Hildreth, T. F., 170, 311, 3I5 824 824 ~~~~~INDEX OF NAMES. Hill, A. C., 387 Hill, A. W. 387 Hill, Cyrus, 3I7 Hill, James, 373, 387 Hill, John, 228, 488 Hill, Lysander, 487 Hill, Marion S., 623 Hill, N. R., 388 Hill, W. B., 438, 500 Hillhouse, A. S., 218 Hills, Aaron H., i8 Hills, C. T., 386 Hills, Turner, 75 Hilton, C. A., 147, 148, i86, 395, 400 Hilton, Elizabeth, 622 Hilton, Robert, 6o,88, I07, 346, 386, 389, 393, 401, 402, 483, 545, 662 Hillyer, Frances F., 724 Himes, John, 440 Hinds, A. J., 4'-20 Hindis, Calvin, IIi, ii6 Hinds, Mrs. Clara Bliss, 700 Hinds, Cynthia, K., 622 Hinkley, Mr., 113 Hinman, C. C., 389 Hinman, W. G., 431 Hinsdale, Mrs. H. W., 354 Hinsdale, Mary, 383 Hinsdale, Mitchell, 383 Hinsdill, Almira, 22I Hinsdill, C. B., 274, 369, 747, 748, 749 Hinsdill, Celestia, 220 Hinsdill, Cora M., 750 Hinsdill, Emeline, 114 Hinsdill, Emily, 747, 749 Hinsdill, Hiram, 59, 86, I01, 385, 560 Hinsdill, H. M., 273, 274, 356, 684, 747, 748 Hinsdill, Jeannette, II7 Hinsdill, Marion L., 241, 623, 747 Hinsdill, Mary, 220, 623 Hinsdill, Mary A., 622 Hinsdill, Mary J., 622 Hinsdill, Myron, 6o, 72. 103. 104, I199, 286, 287, 560, 652, 747, 749 Hinsdill, Mrs. Myron, 485 Hinsdill, Stephen, 91, II5, ii6, 287, 388, 483 Hinsdill, Win., 6o Hinsdills, the, 77 Hintz, L., 3I7 Hirth, Anton, 490 Hitchcock, E., 235 Hoag, Abram, 530, 53I Hoag, Allen, 164 Hoag, E. A., 271 Hoag, F. L., 724 Hoag. J. J., 652 Hoagland, Pliny, 532, 534 Hobbes, F. J., 267 Hodenpyl, A. G., 689 Hodenpyl, Mary M. G., 222 Hodenpyl,- P. J. G., 2I4, 238, 246, 273 Hodges, Mrs. C. B., 197 Hodges, Mrs. C. D., 359 Hodges, C. E., 564 Hodges, C. P., 239 Hodges, L. N., 471 Hoeksema, G., 360 Hoeksema, Henry, 402 Hoff man, Charles, 492 Hoffman, Charles, Jr., 493.Hoffman,' W. H., 320, 321 Hofs, H.- W., 330, 331 Hogadone, C. E., 274 Hogadone, G. P., 88, 5I3 Hogadone, H. C., 389 Hogan, Peter, i6i, 208 Hogeboom, Darus, 335 Hogeboom, S. A.. 395 Hogendyk, Martin, 334 Hooker, C. S., 388 Holbrook, H. B., 488, 648, 68o Holcomb, Frances E., 247, 248 Holcomb, J. W., 401 Holcomb, M. A., 387 Holcomb, Seth, 224 Holden, Charles, 662, 738 Holden, E. G. D., i0, 83, 270, 66i, 662, 673, 684, 737, 738 Holden, Henry, 738 Holden, H. 5., 662, 698, 716 Holden, Joanna R., 737 Holden, J. R., 737 Holden, Mary H., 738 Holden, - Oliver, 737 Holden, Samuel, 737 Holiday, John. 31 Holland, Franklin, 467 Holley, D. C., 695 Hollister, C. H., 678 Hollister, F. W., 367, 368 Hollister, G. C., 678 Hollister, H. C., 357 Hollister, H. J., I39, 197, 247, 497, 534, 575, 674 675, 676, 677, 678, 685, 689 Hollister, Mrs. H. J., 247, 252 Hollister, J. B., 676 Hollister, J. C., 678 Hollister, Jeanette A., 22I, 244, 296 Hollister, J. H., 87, 227, 237, 707 Hollister, Mrs., J. H., 354 Hollister, John, 676 Hollister, Mary G., 678 Holloway, F. M., 198 Holloway, John, 289 Holloway, Mrs. John, 289 Holloway, Sam., 45, 46 Holm, Gust, 273 Holmes, Andrew, 286 Holmes, A. Z., 365 'Holmes, Daniel, 743 Holmes, Elizabeth Ann, 744 Holmes, E. 5., I7I, 173, 250, 727 HQlmes, J. C., 66 Holmes, J. T., 6o, 140, 144, 25I, 295, 737, 743, 744, 745, 753 Holmes, Mrs. J. T.,74 Holmes, Marietta, 744 Holmes, Mrs. Sally, 74.5 Holt, C. H., 707 Holt, Frances E., 460 Holt, Henry. 387, 509 Holt, H. H., 5o8 Holt, S. A., 314 Holt, S. F., 2 81 Holt, S. H., 3 IO Holton, Mrs. C. A., 236 Holtzman, J. L., 350 Homan, J. F, 472, 487 Hondelink, Gerrit, 328 Hondorp, Hermanus, 332 hood, C. W., 3I4 Hood, Helen J., 237 Hoogerhyde, John, 395,402 Hooghuis, A., 336 Hooker, C. B., 320 Homner, John, 356 Homner, John S., 82 Homner Joseph, 472 Hormuth, John, 447 Horton, Abraham, 32I Horton, Asa, 347 Horton, J. 5., 32I Horton, 0. W., 255, 257, 283 Hope, Henry, 8i Hopkins, Annie C., 234 Hopkins, A. 5., 268 Hopkins, C. M., 251I Hopkins, Emily, 98, 623 Hopkins, Enos, 586 Hopkins, Eunice, 623 Hopkins, F. D., 269 Hopkins, F. J., 3I4 Hopkins, Mrs M-, 3I4 Hopkins, Marianne S., 398 Hopkins, M. L., 263 Hopkins, Stephen, 397 Hoppins, E. J, 47I Hopson, W. C., 447 Hosford, F. H., 264, 267, 272 Horsford, Marion, 23I Hosken, J. B., 694, 707 Hottinger, Geo., I36 Houbold, W. A., 327 Houghton, Douglass, 5, 380, 414, 417 Houghton M. B., 578' House, J. W., 728 House, 0. C, 492 House, Oscar, 386, 387 Houseman, Helen, 485 Houseman. H. L., 485 Houseman, Joseph, 228, 301, 4I0, 484, 485, 542, 543, 648, 654, 793 Houseman, Mrs. Joseph, 30I Houseman, Julius, 83, 138, 216,' 249, 300, 394., 478, 484, 485, 541, 66o, 66i, 662, 678, 68i, 682, 683,' 689 Houseman, M. M., 485,751 Houston, H. B., 671 Hovenden, Robert, 290 Hovey, A. H., 648 Hovey,Wm., i64, 246, 282, 390, 42I, 422, 546, 557 Hovey, WV. S., 421, 576 Howard, J. M., 169 Howard, 0. L., 403 Howard, Win. A., 83, 134, 467, 674, 759 Howard, Mrs. W. A., 247 Howe, C. L., i187 Howe, James B., 531 Howe, John' B., 53I Howe, W. B., 262, 274 Howe, Win., 256, 421 Howell, C. C., 346 Howell, Ezekiel, 386 Howland, G. W., I23 Howland, Samuel, 6o, 103, 286 Howlett, Robert, 59, 72, 77, 100, 387 Hoyle. Geo., 388 Hoyt, Birney, 251, 394,737 Hoyt, Edwin, 395 Hoyt, Edwin, Jr., 247,289, 573, 684 Hoyt, W. F., 696, 707 Hoyt, M., 294, 295 Hoyt, Melancthon, 87 Hubbard, Asahel, 424 Hubbard, Fred, 388 Hubbard, G. L., 498 Hubbard, G. 5., 34, 37, 45 Hubbard, Sila, 253 Hubbell, Mary, 750 Huber, Henry, 204 Hudson, Mrs. E. J., 359 Hudson, J. B., 402 Hudson, L.-C., 306 Huelster, W. W., 498 Hufford, D. A., 27I, 2/2 Hugenholtz, F. W. N., 348 Hugenholtz, P. T., 273 Hughart, J. H. P., 320, 534 Hughart, W. 0., 217, 320, 534, 685 Hughes, D. D., 228, 401, 75I, 754, 758, 759 Hughes, J. S., 293 Huigenza, P., 336 Huighouse, Win., 252 Hulbert, Ansel, 414, 415 Hulbert, Caroline A., 297 Hulbert, C. E.,~ 356 Hulbert, John, 3' Hulbert, P. 5., 267, 400 INDEX OF NAMES. 825 Hull, J. W:, 290 Hull, Moses, 345 Hull, W. S., 263, 264 Hull, Wm., 26, 48, 82, 383 Hulst, Henry, 696, 707 Hulst, L. J., 329, 338 Hulswit, F. M., 274, 328, 356 Hult. A., 305 Hume, E. M., 694 Hummer, George, 666 Hunt, DeForest, 277, 724 Hunt, Edward, 575 Hunt, E. H., 68i, 683 Hunt, T. K., 268 Hunt (Gov. N. Y.), 74 Hunt, J. A., 350, 457, 498 Hunt, John, 731 Hunt, Leonard H., 388 Hunt, Lillian, 234 Hunt, Mary, 107, 390, 623 Hunt, Simeon, 385, 388, 66i Hunter, Emma A., 232 Hunter, Robert, Jr., 388 Hunting, Isaac, 585 Hunting, I. M., 387 Hunting, W. E., 469 Huntly, E. R., 395' Huntly, G. M., 389, 390, 394, 402, 483', 576, 643 Huntqoi, K. A., 586 Hupp, C. 1., 228, 535, 536 Hurd, C. W., 313 Hurd, Everett, 388 Hurd, Sally, 658 I-urlburt, C. R., 20 Hurley, W. J., i80 Hurst, J. M., 320 Husted, J. T., 290 Huston, J. S., 594 Hutchins, Miss E. S., 257 Hutchins, J. B., 366 Hutchins, R. M., 388 Hutchinson, Mr., 66, 71 Huttinga, W., 336 Hyde, Harriet, 318 Hyde, J. T., 289 Hyde, Milton, 559 Hyde, Myrtle, 238 Hyde,' W. A., 182, i86, 393, 394 Hyde, W. W., 743, 751 Hydeman, Wm., 332 Hydorn, A. C., 395 Hydorn, Anthony, i86 Hydorn, Edward, 403 Hydorn, Esther, 513 Hydorn, Frances N., 232 Hydorn, H. A., 401, 574 Hyland, John, 402 Ickler, Henry, 497 Ide, Mary F., 5r Idema, H., 320 Idema, Henry, 504, 687, 688, 689 Immen, Mrs. F., 252, 290 Ingraham, T'hn, 400 Innes, Lizzie, 649 Innes, R. S., 277 Innes R. W., 539, 541 Innes, W. A., 268, 271, 272 Innes, Wm. P., 83, 267, 403, 528, 531, 54I, 574, 586, 587, 649 Ives, C. L., 564, 663 Ives, Mrs. D., 241, 257 Ives, H. H., 60, 94, i8i, 345, 389, 390, 393, 394, 426, 662, 663 Ives, Henry, 48I Ivine, Paulus Emelius, 8i Jablonowski, T. C., 344 Tackman, A. C., 315 Jackoboice, Joseph, 439, 440 Jacobs, Richard, 317 Jackson, Andrew, 408 Jackson, B. D., 255 Jackson, Henry, 103 Jackson, H. E., 746 Jackson, R. S., 386, 387 Jahrhaus, John, 316 James, Alice M., 231 James, Miss, 241 Janse, J., 333 Jares, Remey, 300 Jarvis, P. R., 444. 459 Jefferson, Norman, 300 Jeffords, Elizabeth M, 623 Jeffords, M. W., 258, 492 Jeffres, F. F., 170,,458 Jend, Henry, 316 Jenison, C. A., 281 Jenison, Hiram, 78, 119 Jenison, Lucius, II9 Jenison, Luman, r19 Jenison, 0. A., I8 Jenks, S. B., 689 Jennings. C. W., 491, 504 Jennings, F. N., 184, 187, 447 Jennings, George, 458 Jennings, Howard, 60, 9o, I20, 485, 50I, 518 Jennings, Joseph, 3Io Jennings, Minnie H., 234 Jennison, A. F., 240 Jerome, D. H., 83, 198 Jewell, Edward, 388 Jewell, 0. 'P., 388 Jewell, R. W., 388 Jewett, Carrie B., 235 Jewett, Dr., 219 Jewett, Francis, 531 Jewett, Henry, 402 Jewett, Rev., 322 Jipson, Maria A., 225, 593 Joachim, Hermann, 75 Jocelyn, G. B., 169, 310 Johnson, A. C., 707 Johnson, Adelaide M., 622 Johnson, Andrew, 265 Johnson, Barton, 387 Johnson, C. H., 728 Johnson, David, 731 Johnson, Eli, 6o Johnson, E. M., 221 Johnson, E. R., 387 Johnson, G. K., 355, 393, 404, 416, 587, 685, 694, 696, 697, 698, 708 Johnson, G. S., 534 *Johnson, H. C., 299 Johnson, J. B., i80 Johnson, J. C., 387 Johnson, John, 402 Johnson, John J., 317 Johnson, J. W., 285 Johnson, Julia A., 622 Johnson, L. H., 542 Johnson, Mrs. Lucia, 352 Johnson, Martha J., 397 Johnson, Mrs., 315 Johnson, N. C., 563 Johnson, Olive L., 623 Johnson, P. W., 389 Johnson, Robert, 767 Johnson, S. M., 70, 73, i6, i68, 25I, 261, 294, 573, 66i, 670 Johnson, Mrs. Susan, 317 Johnson, W. S., 387 Johnson, W. W., 5Io0 Johnston, A. S., 502 Johnston, A. W., 267, 300 Johnston, C. H., 695, 696, 697, 709 Johnston, H. H., 300 Johnston, Jennie, 490 Johnston, J. K., 212, 283, 559 Johnston, W. J., 356 Joldersma, R. H., 332 Jones, Mrs. Almira, 221 Jones, C. H., 258 Jones, C. W., 141 Jones, Cynthia, 754 Jones, Cyrus, 59, 65, Ioo Jones, DeGarmo, 12 Jones, E. H., 388 Jones, E. W., 574 Jones, F. A., 694 Jones, Ira, 20, 59, 85, 87, 88, Ioo, 345, 766 Jones, Joab, 444 Jones, J. H., 698 Jones, J. W., 365 Jones, W. H., 347, 468 Jones, Wilson, 182, 401, 571, 662 Jones, Thomas, 288 Jones, T. Z. R., 280 Jonker, Bartel, 402 Jonkhof, G., 333 Jonquiere, Marquis, 81 Joslin, Sarah A., 646 Joslin, Harvey, 311 Josselyn, J. B., 346 Joy, H. M., 311, 313, 535 Joy, Mrs. H. M., 245 Joynes, Mrs. G. F., 360 Judd, A. B., 412 Judd, C. B., 473, 474, 660 Judd, Mrs. C. B., 420 Judd, E. E., 496, 599 Judd, Mrs. E. E., 359 Jqdd, Elliott, i86 Judd, G. E., 573, 574, 575, 599 Judd, S., 289 Judd, S. A., 575, 577, 599 Judson, Adoniram, 35 Judson, H. I., 307 Kaiser, Frank, 495 Kalmbach, Henry, 251 Kalmbach, George, 3I7 Kalmbach, Godfrey, 495 Kanouse, Wm., 518 Karr, Joseph, 402 Karreman, Antony, 335 Kay, Caroline G., 232 Kay, Grace E., 232 Kay-nee-wee, 27 Kearney, Philip, 579 Keator, Martinus, 394 Keefe, Thomas, 402 Kee-o-to-aw-be, 27 Keiser, F., 342 Keller, Mary E., 680 Kelley, J. L. E., 263 Kelley, John 559 Kellogg, Abi A., 622, 650 Kellogg, Anna, 650 Kellogg, Anna M., 650 Kellogg, C, E., 229 Kellogg, Daniel, 382 Kellogg, F. M., 650 Kellogg, F. W., 83, 587, 588, 593, 594 Kellogg, Mrs H, S., 354 Kellogg, Israel, 526, 532 Kellogg, M. H., 650 Kellogg, 0. M., 650 Kellogg, Orson C., 5I3,650 Kellogg, Truman, 60, IIo, 506, 513, 650 Kelly, Charles, 387 Kelly, Foster, 388 Kelly, Nelson, 387 Kendall, Anna W., 654 Kendall, C. F., 576 Kendall. D. W., 379, 467 Kendall, F. G., 320 Kendall, F. M., 225, 227, 289 Kendall, George, 97, 214, 222, 227, 296, 393, 525, 543, 546, 647, 653, 678, 68i, 682, 775 Kendall, Mrs. George, 354, 355, 697 Kendall, G. T., 456, 460, 682 Kendall, H. D., 709 Kendall, J. C., 653, 654 Kendall, John, 214, 394, 395, 653, 654. 677 Kendall, Julia M., 654 Kendall, Lyman, 653, 68i, 682 Kendall, Martha C., 653, 682 826 INDEX OF NAMES. Kennedy, James, 3II Kennedy, J. C., 729 Kennedy, J. M., 413, 563 Kenning, G. E., 395 Kent, David, 92 Kent, W F., 224 Kerwin, Luke, i86 Ketcham, Mrs. E. B., I97 Ketcham, Mrs. E. H., 252, 253 Ketcham, S. G., 488, 543, 698 Ket-che-me-chi-na-waw, 27 Ketchum, Geo., 71, 78, 438, 439 Ketchum, Mrs. M. D., 486 Keukelaar, J., 336 Keukelaar, Jacob, 413 Ke-Wa-goush-cum, 27 Ke-Way-Koosh-cum (Long Nose), 29 Kew-Kish-Kum, Chief, 49 Keyes, Joseph, 389 Kidd, J. H., 593 Kidder, M. C., 402 Kilgore, Anne M., 98 Killean, Edward, 563 Killean, John, 395, 400, 403, 404, 698 Killinger, Christian, 204 Killinger, Friedrich, 302 Kilroy, Father, 340, 341 Kilroy, Lawrence, 94 Kilroy, Mrs. and Miss, I88 Kilstrom, Emil, 304, 305 Kimball, G. C., 347, 684 Kimm, M. B., 348, 728 Kindikens, Joseph, 340 King, E. Gertrude Thayer, 361 King, E. H., 316 King, J., 320 King, Mrs. J., 320 King, John, 401, 412 King, Noah E., 20 King, Mrs. S. A., 361 Kingin, H. H., 387 Kingsbury, Mary L., 53 Kingsbury, Mollie A., 256 Kingsbury, S. 0., 87, 97, i8i, 246, 295, 362, 385. 66i, 684 Kingsley, James, 84, 371 Kingsley, Willard, 755 Kinney, Anna L., 232 Kinney, D. G., 574 Kinney, Erminie J., 237 Kinney, John, 389 Kinney, Louisa M., 235 Kinney, L. T., 384 Kinney, W. S., 574 Kinsey, S. T., 3I4, 486 Kinsey, W. H., 291 Kipp, Charles, 507 Kirk, Julia, 257 Kirkland, John, 6o, iiI, 497 Kirkland, R. J., 250, 695, 696, 697, 709 Kirtland, George, 349 Klassen, M., 329 Klaver, Albert, 329 Kleiber, Conrad, 342 Kleiber, S., 342 Kleinhans, Jacob, 249, 299, 540, 542, 755 Kleinhans, D. W., 542 Kleinhesselink, J., 337 Kleinwaechter, Julius, 204 Kline, Emma, 234 Kloote, John, 329 Kloppenburg, C., 333 Klyn, J. C., 316 Klyn, H. G., 324, 327, 334, 335 Klys, John, 564 Knapp, E. U., 314, 315, 508, 510, 512 Knapp, Dr. H., 709 Knapp, Hiram, 540 Knapp, T. J., 299, 300 Knappen, A. A., 31I Knappen, L. E., 737 Knettle, Mrs. Ida M., 234 Knickerbocker, Henry,686 Kniffin, H. T., 292 Knight, Helen M., 222 Knight, Perry, 497 Knowland, Isabella, 623 Knowles, W. L., 257 Knowles, W. 0., 345 Knowlson, A. B., 472, 504 Knowlton, W. H., 299 Knox, J. S., 574 Knox, Wm. E., 320 Koch, H., 302 Koch, P. G., 244, 745 Koch, Wm., 342, 403, 413, 480 Kohlepp, H., 317 Koke, J. G., 328 Kol, I., 339 Kolb, J., 242 Kolozinski, Thomas, 343, 344 Konkle, E.,- 251 Konkle, Horace, 388 Kornoelje, Peter, 413 Kortlander Bros., 205 Kortlander, Henry, 497 Kortlander, Wm., 257 Kosten, Adrian, 334 Koster, John, 329, 331 Kolvis, Wm., 328 Kowalski, Michael, 344 Kraai, T., 337 Kreider, Peter, 4Io Krekel, Frederick, 302 Kremer, John, 335 Kridler, Julia Kriekaard, Peter, 492 Kriekard, A., 329, 333 Kriekard, Peter, 329 Krill, Henry, 316 Kroes, Albert, 326 Kromer, Mrs. E. J., 573 Kromer, J. D., 574 Kromer, Lucia J., 236 Kromer, Mary, 237 Kromer, N. B., 290 Kromer, Stella, 236 Kruger, C. J., 496 Kryger, Cornelius, 335 Kuenen, Rev. Dr., 348 Kuhn, Joseph, 517 Kuiper, Jacob, 335 Kunnen G., 342 Kuppenheimer, Albert, 500 Kuppenheimer, Augustus, 500 Kuppenheimer, H., 300 Kuppenheimer, J., 300 Kusterer, Christian, 302 Kusterer, Christoph, 136, 20I, 203, 207, 302, 316 Kusterer, C. F., 204 Kusterer, Philip, 505 Kutts, F. F., 737 Kutz, Mrs. M. J., 345 Kuzniak, John, 344 Kymer, J. L. 274 Laas, Gustav, 316 La Barre, L. de, 8I Lacy, G. A, 154 Ladner, Frank, 387 Laframboise, Joseph, 47 Laframboise, Madame, 26, 47 47 Lageweg, Louis, 326 Lamarandier, Etienne, 47 Lamberts, Jacob, 335 Lamoreaux, I.F., 384, 395, 737 Lamoreaux, J. F., 365 Lamoreaux, J. R., 394, 401, 402 Lamoreaux, W. T., 505 La Mountain, Prof., 169 Lamy, Theodore, 344 Lander, Elizabeth, 758 Lander, Thomas, 758 Langdon, Sam, 388 Lanier, J. F. D., 534 Lankester, David, 391, 400, 491 Lankester, Peter, 504 Lanman, Chas., 84, 371 Lansing, J. C., 112 Lapham, Smith, 386 Laraway, Abraham, 60 Laraway, Stella, 237 Laraway, Wm., 490 La Salle, Chevalier de, 2f Lasley, William, 31, 72 Lataurette, D. L., 674 Latham, D. R., 3IO Lathrop, H.Antoinette, 233, 253 Lathrop, Jessie, 235 Laubenstein, D. A., 698, 709 Launiere, L. L., 395 Lauson-Charny, Chas. de, 8i Lauson, Jean de, 8i Lawrence, D. C.,-87, 261, 746 Lawrence, Edwin, 732 Lawrence, J. S., 751 Lawson, F. M., 258 Lawyer, A. A., I86 Leach, Collins, 388 Leach, D. C., 44 Lean, J. U., 242 Leathers, J., 83 Leavenworth, A. D., 412 Leavitt, A., 300 Leavitt, D. S., 60, 143, 200, 222, 389, 400, 401, 653 Leavitt, Phebe, 58 Le Clear, A. A., 255 Ledyard, H. B., 535 Ledyard, W. B., 358, 377, 392, 416, 543, 673, 678, 680, 684 Lee, Edmund, 388 Lee, Gen, 590 Lee, Geo. D., 312, 314 Lee, Miss Geo. D., 314 Lee, Mrs. George, 248 Lee, George W., 44 Lee, J. G., 269, 270 Lee, J. L., 564 Lee, Robert, 126 Leeson, M. A., 276 Leet, Lizzie C., 249 Le Fevre, P. P., 340, 410 Leffingwell, C. W., II7, 40I, 745 Leffingwell, H., 290 Leffingwell, W. S., 270 Leggett, A. T., 300 Lehman, J. G., 319, 666 Leitelt, Adolph, 203, 212, 375, 394, 395, 402, 404 439, 44I, 467 Leitelt, Adolph, Jr., 459 Leitelt, Frank, 447 Leitelt, Frederick, 395 Leitelt, Herman, 450 Leitelt, Wm., 450 Lemon, David, 394 Lemon, Frank, 184, I87 Lemon, J. A., 403 Lemon, Rachael, 657 Lemon, L. M. 320, Lemon, Samuel, 657 Lemon, S. M., 657, 660 Lemoin, Bessie, I87 Lemoin, Flossie, 187 Lemoin, Henry, i86, 187 Lemoin, Ray, 187 Lemoin, Roy, 187 Leonard, Arthur, 252 Leonard, C. H., 147, 389, 656, 660 Leonard, F B., 70, 7I Leonard, F. P., 415 Leonard, F. W., 264 Leonard, Frank E., 656 Leonard, Frederick, 656 Leonard, Heman, 97, 559, 653, 656 Leonard, Isaac, 663 Leo XIII, Pope, 14I, 34I Leppig, Wm., 372, 39I,607 INDEX OF NAMES.87 8 ""el 7 Leppink, Hendrikus, 38~, Letellier, F., 299, 377, 66o Letellier, Francis, 395, 428 Letellier, Mrs. F., 355, 697 Letellier, J. F., 684 Levake, H. A., 31I Levake, W. S., 438, 439 Lever, Henry, 698 Levi, I. C., 300, 30I Levi, J. I., 300 Levy, Jacob. '4i0 Lewis, Mrs. Addie, 294 Lewis, Ladd J., 227 Lewis, M. C., 500 Lewis, M. J., 402, 499 Lewis, 0. R., 388 Liesveld, H. W., 323, 324, 490 Limpens, G.,34 Lincoln, Abraham, I26, 158, i96, 197, 242, 243, 265, 408, 436. '575, 577, 590, 597, 598 755 Lincoln, Mrs. A. E., 232 Lincoln, Keziah, 59 Lincoln, Luther, 59,75, 85, 86, 100, 426, 505, 76i Lincoln, R. T., 699 Lincoln, Win. B., 54, 55 Lindberg, Charles, 448 Lindberg, C. J., 304 Linderman, A. T., 228, 507 Linderman, G. S., 510 Lindhout, C., 333 Lindhout, Henry, 425 Lindley, R. B., 497 Lindsay, J. W., 402 Lindsey, John, 395 Lindsey, Mrs. John, 346 Lipinski, John, 49I Lippink, G. J-, 332 Litchfield, A. C., 594 Littel, R. H., 315 Little, D. H., 342 Little, F. T., 394 Little, Fratxk, 89, 92 Little, Henry, 29 Littlefield J. P., 393 Littlefield, M. S., 223, 238, 57' Littlefield, S. 0., 262 Littlejohn, F. J., i68, I97 Livingston, Mrs. Anna,36i Livingston, Benjamin,.526 Livingston, Mrs. Benjamin, 59 Livingston, J. M., 5I3 Livingston, Lincoln B., 249, 751 Livingston, Mrs.M. P.,36i Lobdell, W. H., 534 Locher, Anna, 292 Locher, H. E., 228, 292, 695, 710 Lochlin, James, i8l, 495 Locke, G. W., 263, 268 Lockwood, B. F., 40I Lockwood, C. L~, 534 Lockwood, D. W., 517 Loettgert, Frederick, 404, 66i, 675 Logan, I. J., 3 -Lohman, George, 349 Lomax, Joseph, 530, 53I London, Mary, 236 Long, Annie F., 599 Long, C. D., 73 2 Long, E. R., 598 Long, G. H., 684 Long, H. F., 279 Long, Mrs. H. F., 279 Long, H. W., 480 Long, J. R., 394 Long, James W., 44 367, 368, 369, 598, 599 Long, W. J., 428 Longueuil, Barola, 8i Loomis, Andrew, 5IO Loomis, Mrs. C. H., 361 Loomis, C. M., 273 Loomis, R. B., 281, 283, 285, 373, 389, 66i Lord, M. 5., 497 Lothrop, A. N., 294 Loutenbach, J., 339 Love, George, 698 Love, R. WV., 400, 497 Love, W. D., 289 Loveland, W. B., 492 Lovell, Fanny, ii6, 446, 622 Lovell, L. S, 74, 736 Lovell, Miss M., 239 Lovering, Win., 598 Lovett, George 5., 214, 545, 684 Lovett, J. F., 341 Lowe, Edward, 439, 686 Lowe, Eliza F., 439 Lowe, James, 3II, 439 Lowe, Rose, 190 Lowe, Rowland, 439 Lowell, J. C., 484 Lucas, Ruth A., 622 Luce, Benj., 94, 662 Luce, Cyrus G., 83, 198, 265, 368, 432, 596 Luce, F. R., 320, 472 Luce, F. W., 187 Luce, Mary A., 622 Luce, M. C., 56o, Luce, R. C., 125, 143, I8I, 389, 393, 394, 407, 4II, 472, 567, 575, 653, 678, 681, 767 Luce, Rebecca W., 567 Lumke, J. M., 333 Lundgren, C. J., 306 Lupinski, Hugo, 695, 696, 697, 698, 710 Luten, B., 326 Luther, George, 356 Luther Sylvester, 289, 460, 498 Luther, William, 299 Luton, A. E., 698 Luton, Harm, 402 Luton, R. M., 724 Lyman Brothers, 72, 77 Lyman, D. A., 294 Lyman, Dwight, 6o, i01, 424, 426, 762, Lyman, James, 20, 6o, 101, 143, 207, 424, 426, S's Lyman, Mrs. James, 571 Lyman, Win., 321 Lym~ans, the, 653 Lynch, Margaret E,, 237 Lyon, Asa, 380 Lyon, C. D., 274, 575 Lyon, Mrs. C. D., 492 Lyon, Corinne A., 68i *Lyon, D. B., i8i, 296 Lyon, Edward, 76, i8i Lyon Farnham, 56o Lyon, Frank, 576 Lyon, J. D., 74, 274, 394, 401, 448. 483 Lyon, Lucretia, 346, 762 Lyon, Lucius, 5,. 19I, 20, 31, 59, 82, 83, 86, 90, 91, 96, 97, 101, 102, i68, 198, 295, 346, 380, 414, 444, 5i6, 544, 545, 557, 762 Lyon, Morgan, 389 Lyon, Nathaniel, 598 Lyon, Pamelia, 380 Lyon, R. P., 473 Lyon,, S. W., 513 Lyon, T. H., Sr., 6o, 74, 76, 87, 96, ri6, i68, 199, 221, 227, 239, 362, 387, 389, 415, 483, 538, 559, 560, 765, 767 Lyon T. H., Jr. (Hawley), 407, 525, 5;60, 563, 674 Lyon, Win. 0., 97, 496 McArthur, Catherine, 231 McArthur, Harry, 388 McBain, Win., 471 McBride, ~, 46 McBride, J. E., 228, 229, 574, 745 McCabe, Chaplain, 3I5 McCabe, Mrs. Theresa, 58 McCaghery, Bernard, 402 McCall, Miss Sylvia, 230 McCallum, Peter, 413 McCarty, Chas., 88 McCausland,Wm., 59, 422, 487 McChesney, J. H., 702 McClellan, G. B., 197 McClelland, Robt., 83, 197 McCloskey, James, 669 McClure, G. T., ii8 McClure, Horace, i18, 487 McClure, Orrin, iii8 McColl, J. A., 710 McConnell, Charles, i8i, 257 McConnell, Daniel, i68, I8i, 571, 572, 577 McConnell, Fred" 296 McConnell, James, 318 McConnell, John, 228, 389, 393, 446, 648 McConnell, Mrs. John, 354 McConnell, N. 5.,, 654 McConnell, W. H., 97, 446, 676, 767 McConnell, Win., 446, 492 McConnell, Win. and John, 653 McCord, T. M., 472, 473 McCormick, H. F., 385, 388 McCoskry, S. A.,1 93, 294 McCoy, A. D., 286 McCoy,. Daniel, 2i6, 437, 541I, 66o McCoy, Isaac, 27, 34,. 35, 49, 50, 51, 52, 280 McCoy, M. H., 539 McCracken, S. B., 267 McCrath, James, 6o, 487,. 663 McCray, G. M., 124, 393, 438, 439, 571 McCray, James, I II, 438, 439 McCray, S. B., 246, 438,.439 McCuen, Michael, 402 McCulloch, Hugh, 3I2 McCullough, J. N.,53 McCullough, Rebecca, 454 McCullum, Win., 402 McCurdy, Orin, 401 McDannell, 0. C., 695 McDermand, Edward, 255 McDonald, Alex., 365 McDonald, J. 5., 238. McDougal, Archie, 184 McDowell, Hugh, 267, 268 McElwee, J. G, 440 McGowan, Raymond, 365 McGraw, F. P.,45 McGurrin, Patrick, 663 McGurrin, W. T., 574 Mcllraith, 5., 286 Mclnnes, George, 320, 321 Mclnfire, Susan W., 318 McIntyre, Agnes, 238 McIntyre, G. A., 264 McIntyre, H. A., 290, 292 McIntyre, J. D., 268 McIntyre, Mary D., 62'3 McKay, John, 290 McKay, Mrs. John, 290 McKay, W. 5., 215 McKee, H. E., 387 McKee, J. A., 395. 476,477, 688 McKee, J. C, 529 McKee, J. H., 113, 222, 227, 228, 247, 249, 250 529 McKee, Mrs. J. H.,35 McKee, W. H., 250 McKeever, I. W., 198 McKenney, Elijah, 387 McKenzie, A. C., 575 McKenzie, Alex. M., 393, 650 828 828 ~~~~~INDEX OF NAMES McKenzie, C. W., ~ McKenzie, Lydia H., 513, 650 McKenzie, Miriam E., 650 McKinstry, Robert, 366 McKnight, W. F., 749 -Mcbachlin, Alexander, 2I8 McLaughlin, Dr., 113 McLean, Alex., 389 McLean, Peter, 386 McManus, P. J., 244, 340, 34'1 McMillan, Neal, 386 McMullen, Thomas, i86 McMunn, John, I22 McNally, Christ, 365 McNaughton, Daniel, 384 VlcNaughton, J.. P., 387 vlcNaughton, P. D., 43, 7'I vIcNamara, Michael, 137,WcNeal, Byron, 387 McNeil, W. H., 576 McNitt, Horace, 389 McNitt, Sidney, 389 McPherson, J.A., 694, 696, 710 McPherson, Mr. and Mrs., 279 McPherson, Pauline, 237 McQuewan, John, 748 McReynolds, A. T., 416, 57I, 573, 575, 597, 746 McReynolds, B., 336 McReynolds, B. F., 404 McVean, D. C., 385, 387 McVean, J. J., 536 McWhorter, D., 281 McWhorter, David, 710 McWhorter, Frank, 467 Mack, John, 361, 456, 460 Mack-a-de-pe-nessy, Chief, 4' MacBride, J G., 355, 463, 697 MacBride, Mrs. J. G., 355, 697 MacDonald, Lillie, 359 Mackley, Julia, 476 Macomb, Catherine, 623 Mac~arlane, Peter, 298, 300 Macy, E. P., 98 Madigan, Timothy, i8o Madison, B. W. B., 388 Madison, L. K., 388 Maentz, Henry. 316 Maher, Thomas, i~o Mahiew, J. H, 448 Mainhard, E. J., 698 Mallard, Henrietta- L., 232 Manchester, John, 389 Mangold, John, 207, 425 Mangold, Louisa F., 425 Manly, Edmund, 5IO Manly, Edward, 286 Mann,' C. 1W., 387 Mann, Edwin,,531 Mann, J., 576 Mann, W. D., 594 Manning, Randolph, 732, 735 Manning, Mrs. Mary A., 354 Mansfield, S. M., 5117 Marantette, Patrick, 530, 531 Marco, Maurice, 342 Marcot, Magdelaine, 47 Marion, Joseph. 6o, 72, mOI Marion, Jules, 21 Manis, P. J., 395 Markham, James, 347 Markle, J. R., 216 Marks, W. L., 716 Marquette, Father (Jacques), 25 Marsac, Daniel, 49, 55, 7I, I 17 Marsac, Emily, 59, 62, 622 Marsh, Augustus, 318 Marsh, C. H., 37 7 Marsh, Elijah, 220 Marsh, E. S., 6o, 484 Marsh, F. A., 387 Marsh, G. P., I112 Marsh, Justin, 318 Marshall, Mrs. 382 Marston, Isaac, 732 Marston, Prof., 92, 258 Martin, C. T., 732 Martin, E. C., 386 Martin, George, 6o, 74, 87, 95, 97, 113, 115, 143, i68, 198, 251, 262, 294, 382, 384, 670, 731, 732, 736, 745, 746, 747, 753 Martin, G. H., 732 Martin, Henry, 214, 227, 246, 295, 415, 444, 445, 546 Martin, Horace, i8 Martin, J. B., 357 Martin, J. H., 289, 674, 675 Martin, John, i8 Martin, L, 342 Martin,.Lewis, ii8, 390 Martin, Louis, 269 Martin, Miss M. B. V., 299 Martin,. Mary E., 732 Martin, Peter, 402 Martin. Thomas, 665 Martin, W. B., 732 Martin, WV. H., 576 Martin, W. R., 535, 536 Martindale, B. F., 400. 452 Martindale, F. G., 597 Martindale, Gray, i8i Martindale, Susan A., 622 Marvin, E., 300 Marvin, H. C., 318 Marvin, La Dor, 724 Marvin, Samuel, 346 Mason, -, 285 Mason, A. B., 66i, 741 Mason, A. W., 349 Mason, Chas. G., 21, 6o, i67, 763 Mason, D. D., 32I Mason, Delia, 321 Ma son, L. G., 363, 374 Mason, Salisbury, 388 Mason, Stevens T., 7I, 73,,82, 83, 194, 5i8, 546 Mastenbrook, Cornelius, 402 Mat-che-pee-na-che - wish, 27 Mather, Samuel, 54I Mather, W. J., 272 Matheson, Alexander, 379, 490 Mathews, R. G., 476 Mathewson, I. B., 664 Mathewson, Paris, 664 Mathewson, Phebe, 664 Mathison, John, I17, 25C 4'84 Matkowski, Marion, 344 Matter, Elias, 462, 463, 464, 465, 473, 662, 782 Matter, F. E., 251 Mathews, G. 5., 5I9 Mathews, Julia E., -750 Mattison, Franklin, 496 Maxfield, I. H., 307 Maxim, C. H., 695, 698, 710 May, A., 30I May, M., 300 May, N. A, 534 Maybee, Mrs. Frank, 283 Mayer, F. L., 400 Maynard, F. A., 514, 737, 75' Maynard, R. A., 389, 521 -Maze, J. H., 267, 271. Maze, W. R., 263, 267 Mazereuw, J., 339 Mead, ~, 292 Mead, J. A.,43 Mead, J. A. B. 434 Mead, J. B., 298 Mead, Julia A.,43 Mead, Mrs. Win. J., 434 Mead, WV. WV., 434, 435 Mears, Chas., 75 Meddler,.jacob, 501, 520 Meech, A. W., 39I Meech, W. R., 349 Meeker, Abbie R.. 583 Meeker and wife, 5 I Meeker, Ada E., 583 Meeker, XV. D., 583 Me-gis-o-nee-nee, 28 Mehan, P. V., 217 Meigs, Arthur, 395, 500, 648, 65 i, 666, 687 Meilink, John, 469 Meinardi, Gerrit, 402, 447 Meinders, E. L, 339 Mekeel, W. H., 386 Melis, M. R., 366 Melvin, Mary 5., 623 Merchant, Joel, 493 Merriam, A. R., 276, 289, 359, 361 Merrifield, P. V.,49 Merrill, Enos, 562 Merrill, Horace, 495 Merrill, R W., 228, 229, 283, 467 Merrill, S. M., 311 Merriman, C. N., 508 Mertes, Michael, 497 Messerschmidt, Adolph, 302 Messler, T. D.,53 Mess~more, I. E, 169, 170, 263 Metcalf, Martin, 444, 44 Metheany, J. M.,53 Mettiz, ~, 50 Mex-ci-ne-ne, Chief, 28, 6o, i67 Meysters1, T., 334 Miedema, H. J-, 336 Miedema., John, 402 Milburn, G. B., 700 Milenhring, F., 342 Miles, George, 73I Miles, H. S., 652 Miles, Luke, 317, 318 Miles, Nelson, 387 Miller, C. C., 281I Miller, Charles, 285 Miller, Edith, 235 Miller, E. M., 91, 753 Miller, E. WV., 292 Miller, G. B., 694, 698 Miller, Georgia V.i, 232 Miller, H., 292 Miller, H. B, 522 Miller, Helen E., 740 Miller, Henry, 394 Miller, H WV., 279, 396,481 Miller, James, 87, i68, 346, 376, 400, 401, 403, 578, 678, 739, 740 Miller, Mrs. James, 346 Miller, Jared, 387 Miller, J. B., 71I0 Miller, Jennie M., 235 Miller, Joseph, 86, 739 Miller, J. T., 291, 356, 394 Miller, J. WV., 312 Miller, L. M., 268 Miller, Louise, 354 Miller, Miss L., 355 Miller, Maria, 5I3 Miller, Mary A., 740 Miller, Mrs. Mary Ada, 740 Miller, R. E., 695, 711 Miller, V. N., 306 Miller, WV. J., 737 Miller, Win., 447, 449 Mills, E. P., 228, 269 Mills, Father, 34I Mills, G. M., 20, 6o. 95, 97, 109, 199, 224, 444 Mills, J. WV., 267 Mills, WV. P., 6o, jog, 207. 208, 389, 393, 4II, 452. 572 INDEX OF NAMES. 829 Milmine, Alex., 394, 395 Milmine, F. S., 264 Milner, S. G., 293, 294, 717, 724 Miner, E. B., 318 Minisee, C. J., 285 Minihan, Helena, 623 Minkler, J. F., 255 Minton, Anna, 486 Minty, R. H. G., 587, 588 Mitchell, A. J., 299 Mitchell, B. H., 385 Mitchell, C. F., 361 Mitchell, Cora, 385 Mitchell, Etta A., 232 Mitchell, Henry, 388, 425 Mitchell, I. N., 225, 226, 227, 238 Mitchell, Maria J., 385 Mitchell, Orrin, 307 Mitchell, T., 576 Mix-i-ci-ninni, Chief, 31 Mizner, H. R., 584 Mizner, J. K., 588 Mo-a-put-to, 27 Moerdyk, Wm., 328 Moerdyke, Peter, 276, 323, 324, 352, 356, 357, 359 Moerman, Hendrik, 334 Moloney, Elizabeth, 234 Mohl, Edward, 394, 400, 499 Mohl, E. E., 499 Mohrhard, John, 559, 666 Monett, Osbond, 307 Monike, F., 350 Monroe, Betsey, 623 Monroe, James, 747 Montague, Mrs., 291 Montard, Father, 341 Montes, M. de, 8i Montgomery, R. M., 737, 755 Montgomery Stewart, 224 Montmagny, M. de, 8I Montmorenci, Admiral, 8i Moody, Lewis, 539 Moody, Mary A., 539 Moon, Jane A., 623 Moon, J. W., 500 Moor, D. C., 96 Moore, -, 77 Moore, C. F., I8I, 254, 256 Moore, Dan, 559 Moore, Mrs. E. T., 241 Moore, H N., I70, 363, 574, 576, 666 Moore, John, 197 Moore, Lovell, 60, 86, 87, 88, 89, io6, 167, 196, 295, 389, 393, 544, 545, 728 Moore, M. M., 401, 576 Moore, O. H, 584, 585 Moore, Thirza, 22I, 257, 296 Moors, A. P., 312 Moran, Abbie, 237 Moran, J. L., 179 Moran, John, 389 Moran, J. P., 564 Moran, Louis, 31, 59, 66, 67, 72, 109, 403, 559 Moran, Mrs. L., 73 More, A., 469 More, Ellen, 734 More, J. C., 3II, 469 More, J. E., 208, 404, 54I, 543# More, John, 395, 775 Morehead, A. H., 258 Morey, C. S., 393, 394 Morey, Mrs. E, 345.Morgan, E. B., 417, 418 Morgan, J. H., 727 Morgan, John, 579 Morgan, Harrison, 3IO Morgan, Henry, 310 Moriarity, Josie, 236 Morley, Anna, 283 Morley, Butler, 282 Morman, Mary, 623 Morman, S. A., 488 Morman, Wm., 60,.III, 488 Moross, Adelaide M., 1I4 Moross, C A., 425 Morrell, George, 731 Morris, F. E., 471 Morris, Frank W,646 Morris, J. K., 388 Morris, R. W., 646 Morris, Mrs. R. W., 508, 778 Morrison, F. J., 142 Morrison, Jefferson, 60,61, 65, 66, 67, 74, 92, ioI, I77, 294, 389, 557, 652, 654, 67I, 74I, 762 Morrisqn, Mrs. J., 354 Morrison, Mary, 234 Morrison, Miss, 290 Morrison, W. B., 698, 7II Morse, A. B., I70, 382, 732 Morse, C., 274 Morse, C. H., 75 Morse, J. H., 261, 295 Morse, Mrs. M. E., 26I Morse, Peter, 142 Mortimer, G. D. E., 298, 354 Morton, Byron, 251 Morton, Constantine, 68I Morton, G. B., i8i, 560, 583 Morton, G. C., 525 Mosely, Charles, II5, 365 Mosely, E. L., 250 Mosely, Mrs., 290 Mosely, W. G., II5, II6, I75 Moses, M., 301 Mosher, C. B., 299 Moshdr, Henry, 320 Mosher, James, 386 Mosher, Sarah A., 623 Mosher, T. J., 272 Moss, Carrie, 233 Moulton, Caroline, 589 Moulton, L. V., 255, 267, 276, 346, 449 Moulton,'Robert, 589 Mowat, John, 478 Moyland, D. W., 402 lMuenscher, E. W., 386, 403, 404 Mueller, F., 304 Muir, James, 122, 402 Muir, J. D., 728 Muir, J. H., 529 Muir, W. H., 294 Muir, W. K., 529 Mulder, Klaas, 402 Mulford, P., 308 Mulhern, Hattie, 282 Mulhern, James, 7II Mullett, John, I9 Mulliken, J. B., 435, 536 Mumford, S. R., 216 Mundy, Edward, 121, 583, 73, 736 Munroe, S. L., 502 Munson, E. A., 320, 448 Munson, W. K., 290 Munson, G. W., 530 Murphy, Jennie, 237 Murphy, W. H., 205 Murray, James, 8I Murray, Jane, 623 Murray, Lyman, 386, 387, 5IO Murry, E. R., 20 Musselman, A. S., 32I, 66o Mussey, R. D., 139 Myers, E. E., 377, 378 Myers, W. H., 387 Na-bun-a-gu-zhig, Chief, 3I Nagele, Jacob, 562 Nash, Harriet S., 248, 252 Nash, H. W., 395, 685 Nash, J. E., 389 Nash, Thomas, 252 Nason, C. F., 427 Nason, W. A., 543 Naysmith, Henry R., 251, 350, 404, 514, 662 Naysmith, J. D., 648, 66i Neal, Carlton, 255, 415 Neeland, Flora E., 235 Neeley, W. T., 314 Neill, Mrs. E. S., 258 Nelise, Jan, 334 Nelles, Wm., 499 Nellis, Stella S., 562 Nelson, Abbie.., 222 Nelson Brothers, 72 Nelson, E. T., IIo, 256, 389, 40I, 462, 463, 464, 478, 57I Nelson, Mrs. E. T., 503 Nelson, Capt. Ezra, 463 Nelson, Geo. C., 60, 87, IoI, I09, IIO, 230, 274, 294, 389, 426, 427, 506 Nelson, G. K., 274 Nelson, Mrs. J C., 352 Nelson, J. F., 274 Nelson, J. M., 60, 87, 97, 109, IIO, 207, 220, 227, 294, 296, 362, 368, 388, 426, 427, 462, 463, 545, 678, 685, 766 Nelson, Mrs. J. M., 354 Nelson, John, 300 Nelsofi, Mary M., 103, 623 Nelson, O. F., 275 Nelson, Sarah, 256 Nestell, D. D. S., 255 Nester, Thomas, 395 Nevius, J. S.. 274 Nevius, Margaret, 318 Newberg, John, 304, 305 Newborg, D. L., 410 Newcomb, G. K., 594 Newell, Adnah C., 251 Newell, Cicero, 596 Newkirk, A. B., 493 Newsom, Jesse, 452 Newton, A. D., 314 Newton, Cornelia, 237 Newton, Dudley, 308, 388 Newton, Pamelia, 623 Nichols, A. M., 529 Nichols, Franklin. 224 Nichols, I. H., 181, 25I, 662 Nichols, Miss, 290 Nichols- Wanty, Emma, 696, 697, 714 Nicholson, J. W., 388 Nicholson, Susan, 489 Nickerson, D. P., 483 Niel, L. J., 292 Nienhardt, Carl, 270, 273 Niepce, Nicephone, 254 Niles, E R., 493 Nixon, Mrs. E. H., 232 Noble, Boardman, 87, 97, 389 653 Noble, F. L., 212, 504 Noble, Franklin, 291 Noble, S. B., 254, 727 No-kaw-ji-gaun, 27 Noonday, Chief, 28, 29, 45, 46,49, 50, 5I, 52, I02 Noonday, Mrs., 29 Nordberg, Carl, 304 Norlin, J. A., 305 Norris, C. H., 535 Norris, C. L., 401 Norris, L. D., 346, 467, 736, 751, 752, 754 Norris, Mrs. Lucy A., 752 Norris, Maria W., 752 Norris, Mark, 249, 346, 752 Norris, Roccena B., 752 North, Daniel, 59, 175, 544 Northrop, —, 286 Northrop, H. H., 3I8, 319 Northrop, N. W., 467, 776 Northrup, D. W., 390 Northwood, John, 368 Norton, Aaron, 388 Norton, Anna, 289 830 830 ~~~~~INDEX OF NAMES. Norton, A. N., 15, 123, 384, 543, 597 Norton, Elliott, 252 Norton, Magilvray, 289, 290 Norton, Mrs' M., 289 Nourse, A. B., 529, 535 Noyes, S. G., 483 Nyhoff, T., 333 Nyland, Albertus, 716 Nyren, Claus, 306 Oakes, Chas. 7I, 77, 557 O'Brien, P. H. 4I3 O'Brien, Timothy; 757 O'Brien, T. J., 249, 299, 534, 668, 750, 755, 757, 758 Ocker, S. H.-, 319 O'Conor, Charles, I97 Odell, 0. J.-, 385 O'Donnell, Edward, 395 O'Donnell, Win., 8 Ohler, Mary, 237 Oesterle, Frederick, 302 O'Keefe, John, 487 O'Keefe, Thomas, 493 Oliver, Carrie M., 234 Olmstead, H. A., 286 Olney, E. C., 290, 291, 395 Olson, John, 546 Olthouse, Win.. 339 Oltmans, F., 328 0-na-mon-ta-pe, Chief, 29 O'Neil, P. H., 395, 403 Oom, John, 333 Orcutt, B. F., 8 Orcutt, Georgie L., 235 Orr, J. W., 529 Orr, Robert, 534 Orth, B., 342 Orth, Bettine, 235 Orth, Mrs. M. C., 23I Osborn, H. R., 6o, 444 Osborn, M. E., 294 Osborne,. Charles, 32I Osborne, Mrs. Emily C., 321 Osborne, 1A. R., 294, 321, 322, 444, 652 Osborne, N. H., 46 Osborne, Salem, 316 Osborne, W' H., 32'2 Osburn, C. Y., 366 Osburn, Hester A., 683 Osgood, C., 753 Osgood, S. J., 332, 353, 373 Osgood, Hiram, 77 Osterhout, Peter, 433 Osterhout, S. W., 411I, 431I, 433, 675 Osterle, Frederick, 455 Osterle, F. R., 316 Osterle, R., 316 Otis, C. A., 540 Otte, Peter, 402 Oudeman, Peter, 334 Outhwaite, Mrs., 62 Ouwersluis, C., 334 Owen, Daniel, 540 Owen, L. F., 311I, 728 Owen, Mary N., 232 Paddock, 'Augustus, 5I9 Page, Aaron B., 65, 241, 261 Page! Abel, 6o, 65, 72, I109, 172, 5o6, 545, 557 Page, Abel T., 6 5, 241I, 251I, 320, 5o6, 648 Page, Cabel, 307 Page, Fernando, 400, 402 Page, Harriet, 65 Page, L. M., 107, 182, 225. 228, 393, 401, 477, 487 Page, Loraine Z., 623 Page, Sophia, 219 Page, W. L., 288 Paget, ~, 50 Paige, L. E., 389 Paldi, Angelo, 587 Palmer, A. B., 707 Palmer, L. G., 746 Palmer, Loyal, 387 Palmer, Luke, 3I3 Palmer, M. B., 402 Palmer, Millard, 292 Palmer, 5. 5., 2I7 Palmer, T. W., 139 Palmerlee, Heman, 228, 395 Pa-mos-ka, Chief, 29 Pannell, John, 6o, io8, 203 Pantlind, A. V., 56o Pantlind, G. E., 395 Pantlind, J. B., 514, 56o Parish, E. T., 134, 190 Parish, jasper, 45, 91, 501, 519 Parish, W. F., 311I, 563 Parker, Alice A., 232 Parker, J. C., i15, 228, 249, 729 Parker, J. E., 309 Parker, John, 746 Parker, Theodore, 437 Parkhurst, Mary, 463 Parkman, Louie M., 358 Parkman, R 5., 40I Parks, C. P., 519 Parks, R. 5., 70, 71, I17, 295, 492, 519 Parks, S. D., 487 Parks, Win., 241, 492 Parrish, A. 5., 242 Parrish, Carolyn, 231 Parrish, Herbert, 267, 268 Parrish, I. H., 277, 743, 747, 749 Parrot, R. P:, 31I Parry, T. W., 109g, I 8I, 444, 445 Parry, Mrs. T. W., 345 Parsons, Andrew, 83 Parsons, E. P., 3I4 Parsons, W. S., 388, 39I Paterson, D. D., 268, 276, 285. 286 Paterson, John, 286 Patrizi, Cardinal, 34I Patten, C H., 593 Patten, L. E., 356, 492 Patterson, A. J., 711I Patterson, Charlotte, 623 Patterson, Elizabeth, 623 Patterson, F. C., 388 Patterson, H. M., 365 Pattersoip, James, 224, 395, 487 Patterson, Lucius, i68,223, 393, 401, 546, 571, 742, 753, 754 Patterson, P. M., 43I, 432 Pattison, G. W., II 5, 260, 261 Patton, John, I24 Paul, James, i86 Paul, John, 522 Payne, Jeremiah, 388 Payne, Rufus, 389 Peak, Isaiah, 401, 402 Pearce, L. H., 312, 356 Pearl, George, 402' Pearre, S. F., 293 Pearsall, S. M., 391, 543 Pearson, Lucy E., 200 Peaselee, Win., 21, 96, 97 Peck, Arvine, 388 Peck, Christiana H., 623 Peck, Mrs. Frances A, 354, 359 Peck, F. N., 263 Peck, F. W., 384, 685 Peck, Harriet, 99, 623 Peck, J. E., 684, 728 Peck, L. T., 468 Peck, Orson, 103, 5i8, 652 Peck, Sarah, 623, 663 Peck, T. M., 215, 685, 728 Peck, T. W., 21I8 Peirce, G. C., 395, 576, 685 Peirce, John, 384 Peirce, J. W., 6o, 65, 86, 97, 105, io6, 143, 144, 199, 222, 227, 241, 251I, 257, 274, 294, 376, 389, 401, 540, 541, 545, 556, 567, 66i, 670, 678, 749, 762, 767 Peir'ce, P. R. L., 65, 97, i68, 228, 237, 238, 246, 257, 295, 296, 297, 298, 302, 362, 376, 384, 385, 393, 394, 395, 407, 531, 674 Peirce, Mrs. P. R. L., 257, 296, 354, 355, 696, 697 Pelton, A. D., 4 29 Pelton, A. WV., i~i, 662, 663 Pelton, E. L., i8o, 745 Pelton, J- M., 387 Pelton, Silas, 643, 662 Pelton, Zoe E., 314 Penfield, Henry, 309 Pengelly, R., 3I2 Penn, William, I93 Pennell, J. W., 500, 543 Penney, Dr. Joseph, 93, 115, I54, 312, 318, 323, 509, 527, 567 Penney, Joseph, 182, 207, 228, 234, 312, 3i8, 393, 470 Penney, Mrs. Joseph, 355, 697 Penney, T. H., i8i Penwarden, W. F., 71I Peoples, Mary M., 657 Pepper, Mrs. C. E., 663 Peregrine, S. W., 468 Perkins, C. E., 250, 289, 473, 478, 66i, 74I Perkins, Mrs. C. E., 252 Perkins, C. G., 728 Perkins, F. B., 576 Perkins, G. W., 3i8, 468, 66o, 777 Perkins, H. J., 443 Perkins, S. F.,- 6o, I04, 143, i8i, 494, 495 Perkins, T. B., 255 Perkins, W., 251 Perkins, Willis B., 738 Perkins, W. J., 443 Per Lee, A., 294 Perry, John, 179, 395 Perry, G. R, 395, 541 Perry, G. W., 314 Perry, Maria, 326 Perry, T. R., 480 Perschbacher, 5., 317 Pessink, H. J., 492 Peters, G., F., 297 Peters, J. D., 7i6 Peters, R. G., 65i, 657, 687 Petersen, J. R., 204 Petersen, Peter, 440 Peterson, Charles, 209 Peterson, Reuben, 697, 711I Peterson, S. P., 387 Pettersch, Charles, 403, 687 Pettibone, K. 5., II7, 307 Pettibone, Mrs. I~. 5., 307 Pettibone, Sarah, 21, Phelps, E. L., 388 Phelps, Isaac, 543, 684 Phenix, Win., 541 Philbrick, FL. H., i i8, 240, 257, 763 Philbrick, Joel, ii8 Phillips, James, 317 Phillips, J. Ti., 450 Phillips, Gardner, 313 Phillips, E. C., 509 Phillips, James, II5 Phillips, J. E.: 388 Phillips, L. L., 402 Phillips, Wendell, 436 Pickell, C. W., 284 Pickering, T. F., 563 Pickett, R., 314 Pierce, Bennett, 458 INDEX OF NAMES. 831 Pierce, B. R., 139, 183, j86, 255, 366, 369, 479, 573, 578, 727 Pierce, Mrs. B. R., 355, 696,.697 Pierce, C: B., 564 Pierce, Elizabeth A., 222 Pierce, Mrs. E. P., 290, 29I Pierce, E. S., 215, 484, 573, 684, 685 Pierce, Eva, 234 Pierce, Father, 341 Pierce, Franklin, 197 Pierce, G. R., 390, 394, 448, 552 Pierce, H. H., 267 Pierce, J. A., 509 Pierce, Libbie A, 237 Pierce, Silas, 400, 402, 576 Pierce, W. H., 320 Pierson, Mrs. E., 486 Pierson, G. E., 137 Pike, A. W., 96, 97, I54, I75, 393, 40I, 545, 653, 658, 764 Pike, L. M., 307 Pilcher, E. H., 307 Pillsbury, J. L., 208 Pillsbury, O. P., 436 Pinches, J. A., 356 Pinkney, C. A., 317 Pinkney, Henry, 317 Pitcher, J. S. H., 648 Pitcher, Zina, 197 Pitkin, J. C., 401 Pitts, J. L., 501 Plank, Carrie, 237 Platt, Alonzo, 85, 90, 227, 295, 296, 393, 409, 69I 694, 697, 711, 766 Platt, Henry, 711 Platte, Frederick, 403 Plesscher, Harm, 339 Pleun, Adrian, 334, 335 Plugge, C. E., 142 Plumb, A. D., 228, 395, 403, 687 Plumb, H. D., 388, 543 Plumb, Kittie, 233 Plumb, W. S., 386 Poisson, J. H., 522 Polk, J. F., 31 Polk, J. K., I97 Polke, Mr., 28, 50 Pollard, Annie, 237 Pollard, Mrs. Helen M., 291 Pond, J. Vertie, 236 Pond, T. H., 402 Ponganis, Simon, 344 Pontiac, Chief, 25 Poole, E. C., 349 Pope, G. B., 317 Porter, A. B., 497, 689 Porter, B. F., I86 Porter, Curtis, 389, 391, 400 Porter, D. C., 444 Porter, Edward, i86 Porter, Ge6rge, 510 Porter, Geo. B., 82 Porter, G. F., 402 Porter, Henry, 285 Porter, J. C., 541 Porter, John, 51o, 543 Porter, Lewis, ii8, 227, 389, 401, 484, 646, 654, 674, 685, 747 Porter, S. S., 571 Porter, T. W., 17, 47, 487 Posner, A. C., 413 Post, H. C., 258, 678 Post, J., 335, 337 Post, J. C., 75I Post, John, 74, 92 Post, L., 336 Post, Nellie, 234 Post, Samuel, 366 Postma, S. S, 336 Potter, Mrs. C., 357 Potter, Mrs. Cicero, 354 Potter, C. J., 401 Potter, Esther, 283 Potter, John, 227, 389 Potter, Mrs. John, 354 Potter, J. S., 59, 87, 00oo, 559 Potter, R. B., 533 Potts, Henry, 563 Potts, R. D., 51 Powell, Isaac, 241 Powell, John, 258, 566 Pourrot, F. X., 340 Powers, Anna, 440 Powers, Carrie L., 442 Powers, C. B., 441 Powers, D. H., 228, 479, 497, 576 Powers, E. K., 492, 493 Powers, Frank C., 442 Powers, F. W., 442 Powers, Gertrude B., 442 Powers, Henry, 138, 347 Powers, H. M., 141 Powers, Jonathan, 440 Powers, Luman (should be Alanson), 452 Powers, Mary L., 441 Powers, Sara A., 441 Powers, Sarah, II2 Powers, Wm., 112 Powers, W. H., 190, 215, 216, 267, 394, 464, 4I2, 441, 442, 479, 660 Powers, W. T., 211, 212, 215, 216, 347, 386, 393, 403, 4I5, 4I6, 420, 427, 44I, 46I, 477, 479, 520, 568, 569, 642, 643 Pratt, Abner, 731 Pratt, Asa, 524, 562 Pratt, D. C., 387 Pratt, Mary Ann, 743 Pratt, Nathan, 743 Prentiss, Laura, 241 Prentiss, Sophia, 699 Prentiss Samuel, 699 Prescott, Francis, 51, 219, 28, '557 Prescott, Mrs. Francis, 223 Pressburg, H. S., 3oo Pressey, A. J., 314, 712 Preston, C. L., 306 Preston, David, I98 Preusser, Albert, 164, 215, 487 Preusser, Mrs. A., 355,697 Preusser, Wm., I55, 487 Price, Kate D., 231 Priestley, F. M., 292, 457 Prince, A. C., 402, 585 Prince, Erie, 196, 356 Prindle, Daniel, 423 Prindle, F. A., 447 Prinz, Louis, 228 Prior, Elenora, 623 Pritchard, B. D., 588 Proctor, A. H., 254, 262 Provin, L. S., 648, 66i Provin, A. J, 387 Provin, Lucinda A., 391 Pryce, Edward, 388 Puffer, W. M., 315 Pugh, J. A., 462, 463 Pugh, W. D., 500 Pulcher, C. G., 499, 656 Pulcher, J. C., 340, 343 Pullman, Henry, 316 Pulte, Egon, 343 Pulte, Wm., 487 Pulver, Henry, 402 Pulver, H. N., 564 Purdy, L. W., 388, 389 Purple, Mrs. N. L., 360 Putman, Enos, 283, 684 Putnam, Alfred, 401 Putnam, Mrs. Alfred, 248 Putnam, L. D., 214, 281, 347, 403, 678, 728 Putnam, Mrs. L. D., 247, 252, 347 Putnam, Lucinda, 623 Putnam, T. C., 498 Pyle, Benjamin, 712 Quackenbush, M. W., 584 Qua-ke-zik (Noonday), 28 Quartel, John, 401 Quealy, Lillian E., 234 Quigg, John, i8o Quigley, H., 340 Quigley, Isaac, 320 Quigley, J. F., 430 Quimby, Amos, 228, Quimby, Miss Fidelia, 289 Quimby, I. L., 394, 427, 428, Quinten, Cornelius, 334 Quintus, Jacob, 238, 270, 272, 346 Quinn, John, 401 Quist, Cornelius, 334 Quivey, C. G., 448 Racine, Edward, 450 Rademaker, H., 334 Raiguel, W. F., 4II Raiguel, Wm., 299 Raleigh, Walter, 112 Ramsdell, J. G., 510 Ramsey, H. C., 490 Ramsey, J. M., 490 Randall, Abram, 280, 281 Randall, L. H., 204, 225, 228, 394, 395, 467, 522, 655, 673, 674, 685 Randall, Mrs. L. H., 247, 256 Randall, P. P., 271, 272 Randolph, D. S., 491 Randolph, Mrs. M. A., 236 Randolph, Wm., 315 Raniville, Felix, 496 Rankin, A. C., 361 Rankin, Dwight, 389 Ranney, F. T., 448 Ranney, Joel, 309 Ransby, Wm., 494 Ransom, Clara, 236 Ransom, D. P., 228 Ransom Epaphroditus, 83, 526, 73I, 736, 743 Ransom, J. W., 745 Rasch, Robert, 458 Rathbone, A. D., 72, 87, 97, 227, 261, 404, 4I8, 450, 542, 576, 646, 685, 689, 739, 747, 753 Rathbone, Amos, 97, I04, 105, 239, 362, 389, 393, 418, 420, 655, 767 Rathbone, Emma S., 257 Rathbun, A. M., 564 Rathbun, Charles, I20, 560, 562 Rathbun, C. P., 743 Rathbun, Emma, 296 Rathbun, G. B, 60, 105, 267, 420 Rathbun, H. B., 388 Rathbun, Helen M., 622 Rathbun, Hiram, I20, 401, 560 Rathbun, L. K., 562 Rathbun, Sarah F., 623 Rathbun, Sebra, 312, 401, 458 Rathbun, T. H., 560 Rathman, Paul, 204 Rathman, Julius, 455, 458 Ratliff, John, 243 Rau, A. F., 393 Raushenberger, Jacob, 413 Rawson, S., 447 Read, Annie H., 233 Read, Kate A., 233 Reading, Margaret, 768 Rebentisch, Edward, 304 Rebentisch. Emil, 304 Rebhun, Valentine, 258 Redmond, John, 365 Redmond, T: H., 569 Reed, Alice B., 234 Reed, C. J., 468 Reed, Ezra, 59, 62, Ioo, 384, 513 Reed, Helen, 62 832 INDEX OF NAMES. Reed, Lewis, 59, 87, 219, 388, 736 Reed, Miss, 290 Reed, Nathan A., 281 Reed, Porter, 59, 513 Reed, Richard, 531, 532 Reed, Sarah E., 231 Reed, Seth, 308 Reed, Sophia, 219, 622 Reed, T. E., 513 Reed, W. A., 274 Reeder, G. H., 656 Reeds,. the, Ioo Reeds, two, 77 Reelman, J., 292 Reeves, A. J., 25I, 737 Reid, W. E., 269, 346 Reid, J. W., 312 Reid, Mary Ann, 318 Reilly, Mrs. S. S., 696 Reily, G. B., 228, 400 Reinfried, Joseph, 499 Reitberg, Albert, 402 Remick, C. A., 366 Remick, J. A., 437 Remick, R. A, 369 Remington, A. E., 284 Remington, Captain, 519 Remington, Caroline A., 222 Remington, Mrs. Ira, 283 Remington, L. C., 283, 486 Remington,W. B, 395, 472 Remington, W. T., 387 Rempis, J. H., 449 Renwick, T. R., 401, 5o6, 508 Renwick, W. B., 181, 400 459 Revell, C. E., 286 Reynders, Peter, 401 Reynolds, C. H., 503 Reynolds, Mrs. E. J., 486 Reynolds, F., 576 Reynolds, George, 321 Reynolds, Harry M., 503 Reynolds, H. E., 358 Reynolds, H. G., 503 Reynolds, H. M., 502, 503 Reynolds, Mrs. H. M., 349 Reynolds, Jedediah, 502 Reynolds, J. M., 269, 275, 502 Reynolds, L. S., 503 Reynolds, Reuben, 309 Rhines, J. Lizzie, 236 Rhodes, H. A., 386 Rice, Carolyn M., 235 Rice, Frederick, 312 Rice, J. E., 559 Rice, Jesse T., 314 Rice, John, 444 Rice, Miss M. E., 232 Rice, Nathaniel, 385, 388 Rich, Mrs. H., 486 Rich, N. B., 391 Richard, Gabriel, 53, 340 Richards, Annette, 232 Richards, Arba, 389 Richards, A. S., 228, 229 Richards, R., 307 Richards, T. F., 319, 405, 457, 466, 473 Richardson, Austin, 388 Richardson, I.fB., 579 Richardson, Norman, 543 Richardson, W. D., 377, 378 Richardson, W. F., 294, 359 Richens, Eliza A,, 314 Richens, Paul H., 313, 314 Richmann, F. W., 302 Richmond, Eugene, 395 Richmond, G. E., 498 Richmond, Jessie, 234 Richmond, W. A., 44, 65, 72, 73, 74, 220, 227, 294, 416, 525, 531, 540, 545, 546, 575, 669, 670 Richmond, Mrs. W. A., 72 Richter, H. J., 137, 341, 344, 355 Richter, Valentine, 562 Rickenbaugh, J. C., 311 Rickerson, Phila, 623 Rievers, H., 340 Rigand, Pierre, 8i Riggs, Cora M., 235 Riggs, J. G., 437 Riggs, L. L., 319 Rindge, Alfred, 272 Rindge, L. H., 576 Rindge, L,. J., 496, 656, 660 Ringold, John, 409 Ringuette, Ed., 576 Ringuette, John, 60, 104, I43, 495 Ringuette, Maxime, 60, I04, 143, 340, 495 Riordan, Edward, 365 Riordan, Wm., 389, 394, 402, 495 Risedorph, J. A., 365 Risedorph, John, 319 Robarge, Basil, 20 Robbins, Andrew, 59 Robbins, B. C., 306 Robbins, J. W., 519, 562 Robe, J. T., 312 Robens, Moses, 729 Roberts, A. E., 389 Roberts, Amos, 87, 92, io6, 207, 287, 295, 322, 393, 491, 658, 764 Roberts, Mrs. Amos, 658 Roberts, Edvard, 312 Roberts, Ellen, 623 Roberts, F. H., 272 Roberts, H. S, 577 Roberts, J. E., 347 Roberts, J. H., 203 Roberts, Peter, 546 Roberts, N. P.,59, Ioo, 401 Roberts, Richard, 184 Roberts, Sarah L., I06,623 Roberts, W. D., i8i, 658, 674 Robertson, Ann, 215 Robertson, F. W., 276 Robinson, Miss, 696 Robinson, Albert, 29I Robinson, C. A., 386, 402, 488 Robinson, Edward, 72, 77, I03 Robinson, G. W., 60.Robinson, H. A., 142 Robinson, J. C., 577 Robinson, J. D., 182, 228, 313, 40I, 684, 687, 698 Robinson, J. R., 140 Robinson, J. W., 310, 312 Robinson, Lewis, 71 Robinson, Miss Lizzie,253 Robinson, Lucas, 78, 389 Robinson, Nelson, 43,385, 386, 400 Robinson, Rix, 26, 29, 31, 47, 55, 6o, 63, 66, 77, 83, 85, 86, 98, I40, I43, 144, 194, 386, 387, 515, 5I6, 736 Robinson, Rodney, 78,386, 389 Robinson, W. A., 273, 74I, 745 Robinson, W. G., 311 Roche, C. J, 34I Roche, Mary, 234 Rock, T. S, i8i Rodenhuis, L. S., 337 Rodgers, F. A., 395 Rodman, A., 300 Rodman, R., 300 Roetz, Frank, 410 Rogers, C. L., i68 Rogers, Mrs. C. L., 315 Rogers, C. M., 497 Rogers, D. L., 574 Rogers, F. 0., 746 Rogers, Jacob, Io6, 115 Rogers, Mrs. James, 252 Rogers, J. C., 6o, 270 Rogers, L A., 727 Rogers, Mary P., 622 Rogers, Miss N., 231 Rolfe, Nelson, 495 Rood, C. C., 87, 214 Rood, H. A, 745 Rookus, John, 273, 283 Roop, Clara A., 234, 36I Roost, John, 326, 452 Root, A. A., 272 Rork, Wm., 310 Rosa, F. G., 319 Rose, Abraham, 485 Rose, A. G., 388 Rose, A. J., 404 Rose, Mrs. A. J., 252 Rose, Mrs. Anna S, 232 Rose, C. H., 321, 574 Rose, E. 0., 270 Rose, F. R., 576 Rose, Gustave, 279 Rose, Mrs. Gustave, 279 Rose, Henriette, 485 Rose, H. K., 64, 87, 97, i8i, 221, 227, 257, 267, 268, 384, 388, 40I, 484, 519, 764 Rose, J., 306 Rose, M. W., 536 Rose, Myrtie, 232 Rose, Winnie, 235 Roselle, C., 333 Rosenau, N., 301 Rosenberg, Moses, 387 Ross, J. H,, 312 Ross, R. H., 306 Rourke, Mrs. C. D., 234 Rowe, W. N., 283, 424, 508, 509, 511 Rowland, Joseph, 425 Rowland, L. P., 357 Rowland, Mrs. L. P, 252 Rowley, Ezra, 420 Rowley, George, 184, 187 Rowley, H. E., 388 Royal, Sarah, 232 Roys, Myron, 59, 85 Rucker, Anna Maria, 431 Rucker, J. A., 431 Rudd, J. C., 297 Rudel, P. E., 256 Rugee, John, 429 Rumsey, J. A, 6o, iio, 417, 424, 426, 496, 497, 557 Runions, P. W., 574 Runyan, Mrs. M. E., 486 Rupprecht, Joseph, 400 Rusche, T., 342 Rush, H., 5I Russell Aaron, 384 Russell, A. B., 20 Russell, A. J., 314 Russell, A. L., 490 Russell, H. C., 388, 481 Russell, Mrs. H. C., 354 Russell, J. H., 299 Russell, M. H., 307 Russell, R. A., 366 Russell, W. A., 741 Russell, W. J., 294, 457 Rust, Wm., 492 Ruster, S., 387 Rutherford, Frances A., 694, 696, 698, 712 Ryan, M. T., 273 Ryerson, Martin, 59, 72, IoI, 646 St. Aubin, Mary, 114 St. Clair, Alanson, 196 St. Clair, Arthur, 26, 82 St. John, Mrs., 51 St. John, J. P., 197 Saffrery-Mesy, Chev., 8i Sage, Ama A., 649 Sage,.James, 649 Sage, Susan, 649 Sagendorph, D. P., 198 Salmon, Archibald, 60, Io0, 46I, 477 Salsbury, Annis, 655 Sanford, I. R., 27I Santord, Mrs., 290 INDEX OF NAMES. 833 Sanford, S. R., 96, 97, 384, 728, 746 Sanford, Mrs. S. R., 309 Santley, Delphine E., 234 Sapp, Resin, 309, 3ro, 311 Sargeant, Caroline M., 623 Sargeant, E. E., 96,97,113, 26i, 737, 747, 753 Sargeant, Elizabeth J., 622 Sargeant, J.F., i8I Sargeant, N. 0., 60, 67, 102, 424, 459, 495, 5I6 Sargeant, Thomas, 6o, 87, 107, 403, 504 Sargeant, Thomas, Jr., I8I Sargent, B. F., 291 Sargent, Winthrop, 83 Sarsfield, Mrs. S. J., 62, 486 Sauers, Helen S., 232 Saunders, B. C., 225, 228, 394, 395, 40I Saunders, E. C., 562 Saunders, Frederick, 395, 402, 563, 698 Saunders, H. E., 217 Saunders, H. G., 698, 713 Saunders, R. G., 507 Saunders, W. G., 228, 314, 315, 401, 698 Savage, J. R., 290, 312 Sawyer, --, 50 Saylor, John, 509 Scales, Robert, 10o3 Scammel, Col., 435 Scattergood, J. S., 392 Schaake, Valentine, 317, 455, 458 Schafer, A. F., 521 Schatz, J., 350 Scheffer, J., 268 Scheffer, John, 338 Scheiren, T., 342 Schenckelberg, C., 343 Schermerhorn, D., 510 Schermerhorn, H. O., 390 Scheuffler, Charles, 204 Scheuffler, Ferdinand, 447 Schenkelberg, C., 342 Schickell, P. C., 390, 402 Schickell, Peter, 258 Schindler, P. J., 264 Schlich, Catherine, 622 Schmidt, Adolf, 244 Schmidt, Adolph, 304 Schmidt, August, 402 Schmidt, Charles, 343, 4IO Schmidt, Henry, 499 Schmidt, John, 342 Schmitt, J. A., 341 Schnabel, G. H., 402 Schneider, Rev. H., 350 Schneider, Hugo, 499 Schneider, John, 302 Schoenhut, Jacob, 492 Schoenmaker, G., 268 Schofield, Gen., 596 Schofield, L. M., 320 Schoolcraft, H. R., 31, 44, 7I Schouten, R. A., 713 Schram, Dennis, 268 Schreiner, Laurentius, 342 Schrikkema, B., 336 Schroeder, Albert, 302 Schroeffel, P. J., 502 Schrouder, Jacob, 574 Schryver, C., 333 Schuknecht, H., 350 Schultz, J. T., 535, 536 Schultze, Theodore, 486 Schursh, Joseph, 395 Schuster, Charles, 74I Schuster, Frederick, 304 Schurtz, Perry, 695, 696, 697, 713 Schuyler, M., 295 Schwick, Joseph, 342 Scoby, J. G., 402 Scofield, J. M., 582 Scott, David, 72 Scott, J. G., 402 Scott, J. H., 117, 426, 429, 498 Scott, John, 115, 574 Scott, J. P., 521 Scott, Levi, 310 Scott, Maggie, 232 Scott, Mary M., 623 Scott, T. A., 533, 534 Scott, Wm., 184, 187 Scott, Winfield, 197, 262 Scougal, Belle, 345 Scudder, Sam., 391 Scranton, G. W., 387 Scranton, L. S., 124, 151, 385, 510, 543, 573, 588 Scribner, James, 20, 21, 6o, 72, ]:oo, io6, I07, 123, 262, 400, 4I5, 495, 530, 544, 557 Scribner, N. B., 147, 300 Scribner, WV. R., 300, 502 Scruby, G. A., 498 Seaborne, F. A., 307 Secord,, 5I Sears, John, 27 Sears, Samuel, 355,493,697 Sears, Stephen A., 492, 493 Sears, Wm., 395, 492, 493, 685, 689 Seegmiller, Wilhelmina, 234 Seeley, H. T., 729 Sehler, John, 302 Sekell, A. C., 164, 209, 2Io, 403, 404 Selleck, J. B., 306 Selzer, Frank, 257 Sessions, Alonzo, 366 Sessions, James, 316 Severens, H. F., 746 Sexton, Bliss, 728 Sexton, B. N., 270 Sexton, C. C., 263, 264, 267, 389 Sexton, G. P., 274 Seymour, Alonzo, 389 Seymour, A. W., 574 Seymour, David, 97, 488, 489 Seymour, F. H., 274 Seymour, Henry, 97, 117, 239, 510 Seymour, Horace, 509, 5Io Seymour, Horatio, 197 Shaeffer, H. S., 349 Shafer, Mrs. Mary, 663 Shanahan, John, 474 Shanahan, Maurice, 395, 474, 476, 698 Sharpsteen, Samuel, 255 Shattuck, C. L., 365, 404 Shaver, Roxana, 622 Shaw, A. K., 389 Shaw, James, 309 Shaw, J. C., 402 Shaw, J. L., 212, 215, 216, 395, 403, 539, 684 Shaw, S. B., 269, 306 Shaw, S. P., 307 Shaw, Vernon, 486 Shear, Abrarp, 388 Shear, C. B., 292 Shear, Georgia, 234 Shear, J. B., 389 Shearer, H. A., 290 Shedd, D. B., 283, 684 Shedd, Mrs. Levanche,258 Shelby, W. R., 2[6, 228, 299, 355, 374, 403, 440, 492, 533, 534, 535, 66o, 675, 771 Shelby, Mrs. W. R., 355, 697 Sheldon, George, 286 Sheldon, Mary, 241 Shelton, S. R., 530 Shepard, Charles, 60, 72, 85, 86, 87, 97, IoI, I43, 144, I55, I67, 207, 222, 227, 239, 249, 294, 324, 346, 354, 376, 377, 386, 393, 472, 526, 53I, 557, 684, 69I, 694, 695, 696, 697, 702, 7I3, 715, 728, 764 Shepard, C. N., 728 Shepard, G. C., 238, 258, 273, 311 Shepard, G. E., 320 Shepard, Mrs. Lucinda, 352 Sheppard, W. C., 283, 357 Sherman, John, 534 Sherman, S. H., 320 Sherman, T. W., 433 Sheridan, P. H., I29, 139, 456, 572, 573, 587, 588, 589, 590 Sherk, A. B., 387 Sherwood, Amos, 382 Sherwood, H. C., 510 Sherwood, J. W., 307 Sherwood, T. C., 684 Sherwood, T. R., 732 Shields, Mrs. Esther K., 68'2 Shields, James, 40I, 402 Shields, Gen. James, 163 Shields, Michael, i86, 519 Shinkman, B. F., 390, 400 Shinkman, E. J., 228, 401 Shinkman,W. A., 395, 403, 661 Shoemaker, Catharine, 623 Shoemaker, Clinton D., 388; 389 Shoemaker, DeWitt, 384, 5 9, 560 Shoemaker, Nicholas, 389 Shoemaker, R. I., 96, 158, 208, 307, 346, 393, 407 Sholtz, Mrs. Sarah, 486 Short, James, 60, 90, I20, 501, 518 Short, J. M., 694 Shotwell, W. S., 725 Shriver, Frederick, 447, 449, 573, 575 Sibley, Aaron, 59, 85, I20, 220 Sibley, Sally C., 266, 623 Sibley, Solomon, 27, 731 Sibley, Sylvester, 59 Sibley, Willard, 2I1 59, 72, ii8, I68, 401, 403, 518, 519 Sibleys, the, Ioo Sickles, D. E., 579 Siegel, A., 258 Siegel, Ferdinand, 258 Sigel, Franz, 485 Sigler, E. J., 365 Sigler, Isaac, 179, 395, 4 1 Sikes, S. R., 496 Silsbee, B. H., 20 Silsby, H. C., 183 Silvius, L., 336 Silvius, Leeridert, 329 Silvius, N., 336, 356 Simcoe, John G., 8i Simmons, E. M., 457 Simmons, Isaac, 228, 390, 400 Simmons, Maude, 237 Simonds, Frank, 439 Simonds, John, 309 Simonds, J. C., 439 Simonds, J. W., 50I Simonds, O. H., 5Io, 543 Simons, Louisa, 622 Sims, Andrew, 318 Sinclair, A. P., 147, 228, 66i Sinclair, Coll, 725 Sinclair, David, 745 Sinclair, G. F., 449 Sinclair, M. C., 725 Sinclair, M. S., 449 Sinclair, P. J., 387 Sinclair, Porter, 576 Sinclair, R. P., i68, 366, 416, 584, 66i, 685, 74I Sinclair, Thompson, 97, 207, 221, 227, 366, 39I, 393, 400, 401, 66i Sinclair, W. G., 321, 666 Sinke, John, 333 834 834 ~~~~~INDEX OF NAMES. Sizer, Gecrge, 38, 62 Sizor, R. W., 741 Skeels, Dorr, 386 Skeels, F. E., 388 Skidmore, D. M., 387 Skinner, A. L., 228, 315, 388, 390, 391, 394, 401, 404 Skinner, Clara, 235 Skinner, Elias, 430, 47C Skinner, Harry J., 391 Skinner, Mark, 391 Skinner, W. W., 187 Slack, J. H., i8i Slater, Brainard, 5I Slater family, 58 Slater, F. I., 5 Slater, Geo. L., 51 Slater, Mrs. Irene, 696 Slater, Leonard, 31, 51, 52, 6o, 62, 78, 86, 280, 362 Slater, Sarah E., 51 Slauson, C. A., 530 Slauson, H. H., 401 Slawson, Win., 386, 525 Sligh, C. R., 228, 470, 538, 66o Sligh, Mrs. E. W., 346 Sligh, J. M., 694 Sligh, J. W.,,8i, 484, 586 Sliter, B. F., 394 Sliter, James, 59 Sliter, Joel, 59 Sliters, the, ioo Sloan, Samuel, 535 Slocum, Giles B., 515 Slocum, H. W., 228, 356, 5o8 Slocum, Mary A., 622 Slocum, R. M., 271 Slooter, F. B., 477 Slooter, J. F., 477 Smethurst, J. A., 449 Smethurst, Thomas, 449 Smidt, W. R.,.3 Smiley, E. P., 760 Smiley, Louise B., 760 Smiley, M. J., 374, 514, 755, 759, 760 Smiley, Polly, 750 Smilde, A.,39 Smit John, 334 Smit, Klaas, 333, 339 Smith, A. A., 313 Smith, A. B., 387 Smith, A. Hosford, 34, 6o, 72, 87,101, 103, 257, 287, 295, 296, 393, 519, 670, 762 Smith, Albert, 291 Smith, Althea, 65o Smith, "Aunt Jane,' 105 Smith, Mrs. Ann, 56o Smith, Benjamin, 199, 385,E 56o Smith, Canton, 6o, 87, 96, E zo8, 1121, 167, 206, 207, 355, 452, 524, 559, 56o,E 578 I Smith, Catherine, 237 Smi th, C. B., 263, 281, 289 Smith, Courtney, i68, 318, 319, 320 Smith, C. T., 389 Smith, Daniel, 220 Smith, D. D., 65o Smith, D. E.,65 Smith, D. R., 386 Smith, Eben, 228, 246, 407, 684 Smith, E. E. 268 Smith, Ella C., 283 Smith, Elihu, 224, 438, 766 Smith, Elsie C., 236 Smith, Emily, 237 Smith, Frank, 467 Smith, F. H., 264 Smith, F. P., 29I Smith, G. C., I97 Smith, George, 457 Smith, G. N., 346 Smith, G. W., 249, 250, 264, 285 Smith, Henry C., 6o, 94, 97, 105, 388, 670, 761 Smith, Henry 5., i64, 198, 267, 377, 394, 395, 397, 403, 491, 685 Smith, Mrs. H.-5., 252 Smith, I.- C., I179, i 86, 404, 456, 470, 471, 534, 573, 574, 578, 579, 58o, 581, 582, 583,'596, 597 Smith, JameE, 402 Smith, James A., i8I, 56o Smith, J. L.,47 Smith, J. Morgan, 276, 292, 288, 289, 356, 397 Smith, Mrs. J. Morgan, 252, 290, 359' Smith, J. Mortimer, 6o, 1 17, 294, 464 Smith, John, I84 Smith, John A., 403 Smith, Josephine., 237 Smith, J. R., 741 Smith, Laurella, 7I2 Smith, Louisa J.. 623 Smith, Mary A., 623 Smith, Mrs. Mary, 29I Smith, Mary Ada, 740 Smith, M. F., 583 Smith, Melissa E., 738 Smith, N. G., 729 Smith, N. T.,39 Smith, N. W., 283 Snilith, Otis, 306 Smith, Pliny, i8i Smith, Reuben H., 144, 223, 228, 384, 386, 387, 39' Smith, Riley, 386, 391 Smith, R. M., 4 Smith, Robert, 1 87 Smith, Robert H., 482, 519 Smith, P. K., 562 Smith, Sarah M,, 318 Smith, S. B., 5o8 Smith, Sidney, 385, 386, 740 Smith,. -Simeon P., 103 Smith, Solomon, 396 Smith, Stoddard, 712 Smith, Susan, 317 Smith, T. G., 321, 350 Smith, Thomas, 214, 215, 238, 308, 394 Smith, Truman, i86 Smith, T. 5., 388, 39I Smith, W. A., 350, 491, 504, 536 Smith, Walter B., 103 Smith, W. D., 576 Smith, Win., 317 Smith, Win. B., 569 Smith, W. P., 285 Smith, W. W., 316 Smits, J. A., 390, 477 Smitter, Jan. 335 Snitseler, John, 324 Snively, Abram, 257, 461 Snoek, J. J.,34 Snooks,, 96, 97 Snuggs, A. E., 536 Snowden, W. H., 318 Snyder, Geo., 389 Snyder, Leonard, 384, 393, 394 Sokup, F. J.,47 Soldan, L. V., 350 Solomon, H. S., 698 Solomon, G. W., 318 Solomon, L. A., 387 Sones, G. W.', 409 Sonke, Cor nelius, 402 Sonke, Isaac, 184 Sonke, John, 365 Sonn, A. L., 476 Sorber, Marinus A., 332 Sorber, Martin A, 332 Sorrick. M. H., 294 Southwick, D. C, 576 Sowden, Mrs. C., 486 Spaeth, Fred., 136 Spangenberg, jacob, 389 Sparks, John, 402 Sparks, Levi, 198 Sparlen, M., i8i Spaulding, Erastus, 542 Spence, E. A., 357 Spence, Margaret, 622 Spencer, Charles, 184, 313, 490 Spencer, C. D., 389 Spencer, Elder, 286 Spencer, H. F., 311 Spen~cer, R. H., 696, 713 Spencer, Thomas, 388. 389 Spicer, W. J., 529 Spink, Henry, 425 Spoelstra, Watre, 335 Sprague, Hobart, 488, 489 Sprague, H. Sophia, 237, 314 Sprague, J. A.-, 312 Sprague, J. H., 314 Sprague, T. 5., 540;prague, Walter, 20;prague, Win., 4;praker, F. E., 274 Spring, Catharine, 654 Spring, Henry, 215, 216, 267, 350, 394, 470), 654, 655 685 Spring, Mrs. Henry, I37, 357 Spring, J. A.,49 Spring, J. 5., 654 Springer, Mary, 468 Springer, Reuben, 534 Sproat, D. 0., 300 Sproat, W. J, 263, 268, 272 Sproul, Robert, 395 Squier, Heber, 428 Squier, J. W., 96, 117, 189, 256, 424, 483, Pi6, 562, 568 Squiers, E. D., 109 Squiers, Mrs. M. J., 35 729 Squires, M. L., 389 Staberg, F. A., 306 Stack, R. A., 395, 402 Stadon, S. G., 483 Stafford, E. H., 311 Stander, G. H., 32I Standish, J. H., 746 Standish, Miles, 398 Stanford, Joseph, 446, 052 Stang, George, 402 Stange, M., 342 Stanly, J. M., i8x, 395, 484, 684 Stanton, E. M., 715 Stanton, G. W., 228, 395 Stanton, L. B., 268 Stanton, Nellie, 235 Stanwood, A., 281 Stanwood, Catharine C., 436 Staples, Allen, 307 Staples, Rev. 0. H., 241 Stark, G, P., 387 Starr, F. D_, 280 Starr, Ruell, 46 Stearns, A. A., 283 Stearns, Jane, 283 Stebbins, A. J., 385, 386, 395 Stebbins, C. D., 385 Stebbins, Elsie, 386 Stebbins, G. P., 385 Stebbins, L. A. J., 386 Stebbins, 0. D., 386 Steele, Chester, 385 Steele, Elizabeth, 623 Steele, Ellen E., 385 Steele, Frederick, 598 Steele, Henry, 519 Steele, Michael, 477 Steele, 5., 312 Steele, Win., 666, 687 Steere, J. B., 15 Steglich, F. C., 487 Stegman, Fred, 387 Stein, Charles, 302 Stein, Edward, 395 Stein, E. H., 228 Steiner, Cora J., 237 INDEX OF NAMES 835 Steinman, Lizzie, 249 Steketee, G. C., 283 Steketee, G. G., 83, 394, 395, 402, 728 Steketee, John, 366, 389, 391 400, 42I Steketee, Lucy E., 283 Steketee, Maria, 521 Steketee, Paul, 394, 684 Steketee, Peter, 395 Stelma, J., 335 Stephens, W. C., 529 Stephenson, Mrs. F. E. P., 235 Sterling, Richard, 87 Sterling, S. Y., I8i Steven, J., 337 Stevens, A A, 263, 577, 585 Stevens, E. L., 230 Stevens, Emily, 512 Stevens, E O. 182, 86,319 Stevens, Frances C., 222 Stevens, H. R., 306 Stevens, J. P., 713 Stevens, Marilla C., 261, 622 Stevens, M. W., 44 Stevens, Noah, 394 Stevens, R. H., 368, 369, 697, 713 Stevens, Sarah P., 240 Stevens, S. F., 170, 500, 660 ' Stevens, W. D., 250, 403, 445, 470, 473, 480, 500 Stevenson, G., 576 Stevenson, Mary E., 622 Stevenson, Mrs.M. H., 354 Steward, L. D., 264 Stewart, C. H., 416, 421 Stewart, H. K., 283 Stewart, Isaiah, 395, 402 Stewart, John, 576 Stewart, John R., 363, 385, 401, 684 Stewart, L. H., 283 Stewart, Mary E., 753 Stewart, Mrs., 283 Stewart, Neil, 388 Stewart, Philip, 423 Stewart, Seraph R., 200 Stewart, S. S., 6o, i 8,663 Stewart, W. H., I96, 225, 394, 452, 563 Stiller, Anton, 343, 344 Stillwell, C. W., 294 Stimson, C. 0., 496 Stimson, T. D., 684, 686 Stimson, H. N., 386, 387 Stimson, W. H., 402 Stimson, W. L., 402 Stites, John, 316 Stiven, D. L., i86, 459, 488, 490, 49I Stocking, Billius, 21, 6o, 87, 88, 0o7, 167, 321, 322, 346, 390, 557 Stocking, D. C., I67, 321, 390 Stocking, D. T., 403 Stocking, Duncan, 401 Stocking, Fidius, 258, 566 Stocking, H. S., 322 Stocking, Mrs. Mary H., 321 Stocking, Patience, 390 Stocking, Thomas, 308 Stockwell, A. E., 773 Stoddard, Lucy E., 237 Stoddard, Capt. Wm., 73, 5i8 Stoel, James, 324 Stokes, W. H., 396 Stokkers, N. J., 333 Stone, A. A., 479 Stone, Alzina, 479 Stone, Charles, 227, 401 Stone, C. E., 314 Stone, F. C., 401 Stone, Georgia P., 354 Stone, Henry, 20, 60, IIo, III, 257, 280, 307, 356, 438, 459 Stone, H. G., 92, 182, 257, 308, 309, 3II, 312, 40I, 438, 459 Stone, Mrs. I. E., I97 Stone, J. W., 83, I70, 474, 746 Stone, Mrs. L. H., 247, 252 Stone, May, 313 Stone, Mehetable, 307 Stone, Mrs. N. A., 359 Stone, Permelia, 622 Stonehouse, J. C., 424 Stoneman, George, 579, 58I, 582, 583 Stoner, C. T., 576 Stoner, J. I., 387 Storrs, E. A., I70, 749 Stout, A. D. W., 59, 444 Stout, Amanda, 234 Stout, B. G., I69, 197, 452 Stout, Samuel, I69 Stout, Urias, 388 Stoutjesdyk, James, 402 Stow, Alfred, 387 Stow, A. W., 387 Stow, L. C., 293, 294, 469 Stow, Mrs. L. C., 294 Stow, R. J., 293, 294, 469 Stowe, Mrs. B. M., 486 Stowe, E. A., 264, 269, 272 Stowe, Mrs. Julia A., 346 Stowell, Bertha T., 234 Stowell, N. W., 543 Strahan, J. T., 768 Strahan, Margaret, 235. Strahan, Mary, 768 Strahan, Nicholas, 480, 768 Strahan, T. W., 484, 656, 687 Stratton, F. C., 299, 529 Streeter, Mr., 280 Streeter, Mrs., 240 Strickland, Luke, 387 Streng, Frances, 232 Streng, Gertrude, 232 Streng, L. H., I35, 172,I73 Strong, E. A., 15, 173, 222, 231, 238, 250 Strong, E. B., 696, 714 Strong, E. F., 386 Strong, John, 66I Struensee, Edward, 496 Stryker, Albert, 332 Stryker, Albert, Jr., 332 Stryker, Cornelius, 332,395 Stuart, C. E., 195, 197, 584 Stuart, G. M., 300 Stuart, L. G., 267 Stuart, J. R., 319 Stuart (should be Stewart), Mary E., 622 Stuart, Robert, 44 Stuart, W. J., 140, 228, 492, 737, 745, 755 Studley, E. G., 311, 496, 660 Studley, W. A., 283 Sublette, Wm., 1I3 Sullivan, Daniel, 402, 443 Sullivan, James, 402 Sullivan, Simon, 228, 229, 390, 666 Summerfield, James, 309 Sumner, Charles, 436 Sumner, J. H., 573 Sunderland, J. T., 347 Surprenant, Gideon, 97, 559, 653 Sutherland, A. J., 500 Sutherland, W. B., 318 Suttle, John, 409, 508 Swain, Charles, 134 Swain, C. R., I86 Swain, Hattie, 236 Swain, Kate, 237 Swain, Robert, 395, 411I Swanenberg, Thomas, 425 Swansen, J. W., 306 Swartout, R. D., 655 Swarthout, Elvin, 311 Swartwout, M. 0., 386 Swartz, S P., 430 Swayne, Judge N. H., 749 Sweet, E. F., 249, 469, 758 Sweet, M. L., 128,362,389, 393, 394, 403, 424, 5Io, 543, 563, 674, 675, 677, 678, 685, 766 Sweet, Mrs M. L, 675 Sweet, S. H., 268 Swensberg, Bertha M., 243 Swensberg, C. G., 241, 242, 243, 247, 267, 268, 275, 424, 467, 476, 541, 684, 685 Swensberg, Mrs. C. G, 243, 256 Swensberg, Elizabeth B., 242 Swensberg, Mary, 242 Swetland, Warren, 494 Swigart, R. M, 500 Swiontek, Peter, 344 Symmes, Hannah M., 396 Sytsema, Klaas, 335 Szkuta, Valentine, 344 Tabor, Andrew, 564 Tabor, Mrs. P. C., 257 Taft, H. C., 502 Taggart, Edward, 755 Taggart, Moses, 83, 734, 74I, 75I, 755 Talbot, W. H. F., 254 Talcott, Mancel, 532 Talford, W. D., 228, 283. 389, 467, 49I, 684 Tallman, Esther, 682 Tanner, C., 299 Tanner, Mary A., 623 Tanner, T. I., 299. 525 Tannewitz, Edward, 442 Tapley, Obed, 306 Tappan, H. P., I69 Tarbox, M. W., 267, 271 Tateum, Mrs Mary A., 646 Tateum, W. A., 646 Taylor, A. B., 323, 326, 356 Taylor, C. C., 244, 296 Taylor, C. H., 60, 72, 74, 83, 87, 97, io6, 143, I44, i68, 169, i8i, I82, I99, 246, 251, 26i, 262, 362, 371, 384, 484, 525, 546, 652 Taylor, C. W., i88, 189, 224, 235, 393, 4I6, 424, 426, 494, 495, 562, 763 Taylor, Mrs. E. K, 358 Taylor, Emma, 234 Taylor, George, 588 Taylor, J. B., 389 Taylor, J. H., 273 Taylor, J. R., 272, 300, 359 Taylor, Julia, 732 Taylor, J. W., 743 Taylor, Mary E., 623 Taylor, Oliver, 491 Taylor, Thomas, 187 Taylor, W. W., 745 Taylor, Zachary, 121, I97, 262 Tecumseh, Chief, 26 Teeple, Peter, 387 Telfer, Edward, 504 Temple, C. M., 320 Temple, H., 360 Templeton, Mrs. J., 315 Ten Eyck, Ann, 623 Ten Haaf, J. W., 339 Ten Kaa, A; J., 348 Tennes, Wm., 342 Ter Brack, J. H., 499 Terhune, John,.Jr., 2I4, 274, 318 Terhune, Kate, 318 Ter Keurst, H., 324 Termolen, B., 336 Terry, H. D., 584 Terrell, Mrs. I., 314 Terry, Mrs. Leonard, 465 Thaw, Wm., 533, 534 Thayer, E. B., 722 836 INDEX OF NAMES. Thayer, G. W., 182, 378, 379, 380, 3.8, 382, 394, 395, 403, 510, 540, 541 Thayer, L. A., 206, 415 Thayer, Nathaniel, 380 Thayer, Phebe B., 412 Theile, A., 342 Theile, Mrs. Elizabeth, 343 Thirkettle, E., 306 Thistle, M., 300 Thoman, Josiah, 350 Thomas, A. D., 387 Thomas, C. H., 317 Thomas, G. A., 403 Thomas, Joel, 20 Thomas, W. B., 746 Thomas, W. W., 402 Thome, Michael, 20, 75, 415 Thompson, A., 319 Thompson, Abel, 418 Thompson, Andrew, Jr., 402 Thompson, Mrs. Anna, 573 Thompson, Calvin, 387 Thompson, David, 540 Thompson, D. P., 732 Thompson, George, 77 Thompson, James, 294, 458 Thompson, John, 72, 294, 559 Thompson, J. P., 262, 264, 270, 507, 508 Thompson, Miss, 51 Thors, David, 255 Thomson, D. L., 294 Thomson, George, 395 Thorington, Smith, 542 Thornton, Wm., 384, 386, 388 Thorp, Mrs. Rose Hartwick, 275 Throop, Nathan, 71, 78 Thwing, Z. Clark, 473 Thum Ferdinand, 728 Thum, Hugo, 395, 698, 728 Thum, Wm., 118, 728 Thurston, D. F, 395 Thurston, Lillian, 237 Tibbetts. Josiah, 228 Tibbs, W. H., 728 Tiedke, Charles, 367, 368 Til, Hero, 339 Tilden, S. J., 197, 534 Tileston, Thomas, 20 Tillson, Davis, 579, 582 Timmer, G., 337 Tinkeler, J., 342 Tinkham, Arianna A., 587 Tinkham, D. P., 587 Tinkham, J. F., 277, 386 Tinkham, Mrs., 256 Titus, N. D., 263 Titus, S. W., 60 Tobey, Samuel, 387 Todd, C. A., 418 Toland, J. S., 387 Tomlinson, M. E., 320, 356 Tompkins, I. G., 143; 255, 345 Tompkins, J. H., 228, 255, 345 Tompkins, T. S., 402 Toot, Adam, 464 Toot, Anna, 464 Tooher, J. E., 402 Toren, H. A., 273 Toren, Mrs. H. A., 347 Torrey, Mrs. A. C., 252, 256 Torrey, C. A., 299 Torrey, Mrs. S. K., 275 Tournell, John, 306 Tower, Belle M., 235 Tower, D. F., 403, 516 Tower, D. W., 449 Tower, Hannah, 98, 623 Tower, Isaac, 75, 387 Tower, Lewis, 167 Tower, Osmond, 746 Tower, Samuel, 438 Town, C. H., 587 Town, Mrs. L. A., 141 Towner, S. S., 387 Townsend, L. B., 363 Tozer, A. B., 263, 267, 268, 272, 745 Tracy, A. A., I8r, 404 Tracy, Addison, 513, 66i Tracy, Harriet A, 513 Tracy, Mary T., 622 Tracy, Philander, 87, 116, 403, 736 Tradewell, T., 310 Train, J. C., 388 Train, Ruby, 623 Trauger, John, 314 Travis, J. M., 482 Traxler, G VW., 18o Treadway, E. A., 350 Treat, Augustus, 388 Treusch, M. H., 500 Trompe, Chas., 87, 96, i8r, 559, 562 Trottier, Joseph, 72 Trowbridge, C. C., 27, 73, 528, 529 Trowbridge, Jerome, 204 Trowbridge, L. S., 596 Trowbridge, S. V. R., 84, 371 Truax, E. A., 728 Truax, J. H., 387 True, M. A., 269 Truscott, T. H., 286, 501 Tryon, J. C., 648 Tryon, W. A., 295, 389, 546, 559 Tucker, Adelaide, 225 Tucker, A. J., 225 Tucker, Daniel, 59 Tucker, Fannie, 225 Tucker, Foster, 224, 375, 388 Tucker, Stephen, 59 Tuffts, Wm., I84, I87 Tufts, C. W., 787 Tufts, Mary A., 623 Tupper, K. B., 276, 282 Tupper, Mrs. K. B., 359 Turner, Aaron B, 64, 83, 88, 9o, I43, 154, I55, 237, 251, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 362, 366, 393, 566 Turner, A. B., Jr., 138 Turner, Alfred B., 568,571, 698 Turner, Alzina E., 622 Turner, Annie, 232 Turner, Chester B., 258, 264, 448, 500, 566 Turner, Clarissa B., 622 Turner, Demetrius, 60, 209, 500, 520 Turner, E. H, 20, 2, 59, 65, 72, 79, 85, 87, i00, io6, I57, 232, 307, 3I8, 376, 393, 543, 662, 764 Turner, Mrs. E. H., 312 Turner, Helen L., 235 Turner, Isaac, 21, 60, 88, I04, 262, 265, 389, 393, 394, 396, 524, 562 Turner, I. M., 737, 75I Turner, Mrs. I. M., 253 Turner, Josiah, 732 Turner, S. E., 568 Turner, W\. S., 258, 264 Tusch, F. WV., 400 Tusch, Wm., 496 Tustin, J. P., I93, 297, 299, 355 Tuttle, F. E., 250, 311 Tuttle, Henry, 487 Tuttle, Jane, 405 Twamley, Mrs. Alice, 91, 485 Twamley, F. A., 211, 404 Tyler, Mrs. H. L., 359 Tyler, R. F., 387 Tyler, W. B., 316 Tyroler, Sigo, 522 Udell, C. S., 347 Udell, Mrs. C. S., 347 Uhl, Alice E., 752 Uhl, Catherine D., 751 Uhl, D. E., 752 Uhl, D. M., 75I Uhl, E F., 170, 299, 374, 384, 75I, 752, 755 Uhl, Lucy F., 752 Uhl, M. M.. 752 Ulrich, M. J., 228, 313, 320, 390 Utley, J. D., 463 576, 66o, 765, 788 Utterwick, Henry, 228, 290 Valentine, Augusta M., 464, 623 Valentine, Charles, 464 Valentine, Mrs. C. W., 68I Valentine, Rev., 315 Van Aernam, Charles, 320 Van Allen, D. D., 20, 309 Van Amburg, Matthew, 308 Van Antwerp, A. R., 296 Van Antwerp, D. D., 244, 296 Van Asmus, H. D. C., 270, '473, 574, 66o Van Bree, A., 336, 337 Van Buren, Frances, 235 Van Buren, James, 401, 648 Van Buren, Martin, 194, 197, 383 Van Buren, Ocenus, 51I Van Dam, Gerrit, 402 Van den Berge, E., 338 Vandenberge, James, 400 Van den Bosch, Cornelius, 334 Van den 3osch, Kommer, 334 Van den Bosch, Peter, 334 Van den Broek, 334 Van der Ark, H., 337, 339 Vanderbilt, \V. H., 535 Vanderboeg, Daniel, 292 Van,Der Boegh, Catharine, 52r Van der Haar, J., W., 268 Van der Heyden, J. B.,402 Vanderhoof, Jane, 622, 704 Van der Meer, Meinhard, 244 Van der Meulen, C., 326 Van der Meulen,Jacob,323 Van der Meulen, S., 348 Van der Moere, Levi, 142 Van der Sluis, James, 268, 324, 400 Van der Stoop, H. H., 323, 324 Van der Veen, Christian, 323 Van der Veen, K., 336 Van der Wall, Klass, 402 Van der Werp, D. J., 360 Van de Velde, J., 328 Van de \Val, M., 336 Van Dommelen, John, 292 Van Doom, Adrian, 329 Van Doren, Miss S. A., 359 Van Dort, Anthony, 273 Vandreuil, Marquis, 8i Van Driele, Francis, 326, 329, 330, 331 Van Drunen, A., 339 Van Dyk, Henry, 324 Van Dyke, P. J. D., 169 Van Eeuwen, P., 336 Van Erp, F. J., 340 Van Every, G. W., 387 Van Fleet, J. A., 268 Van Fossen, H. J., 313 Van Heulen, J. C., 338 Van Horn, -, 279 Van Houtum, G. G., 413 Van Houw, Wm., 339 Van Kirk, R. W., 283 Van Leeuwen, J. W., 269 Van Leeuwen, W. H., 324 334, 728 Van Lew, Peter, 387 INDEX OF NAMES.87 837 Van Luik, J., 337 Van Nest, George, 510 Van Overeen, Martin, 403 Van Pammel, Edward, 340 Van Poortvliet, Marinus, 334 Van Raalte, A. C., 192,326, 327 Van Reede, H-. H., 326 Van Stee, James. 334 Van Strien, G., 331 Van Strien, J., 268 Van Strien, John, 400 Van't Veer, Johannes, 334 Van Vechten, Arthuretta 5., 512 Van Vliet, W., 336 Van XWanrooy, P., 348 Van W~inkle, Freeman, 389 Van Winkle, Peter, 281 Van Winkle, Rip, 260 Van Wyck, A. J., 312 Van Zandt, Jacob, 389~ Vaughan, Jesse, 57, 58 Vaughan, Sarah, 58 Vedders, Hl. A., 324 Vedders, Herman, 543 Veenboer, MNelle, 333, 71:6 Veenlboer, Mrs. Nt., 359 Veenstra, Tjerk, 425 Veit, Jacob, 204 Veidman, H. 328 Veltknmp, J- 335 Veltman, H. 335 336 Venerma ir 348 Verberig, Corneli-Us, 338 Verburg, WM. 268, 402 Verdier, J. A S. 324, 385, 394, 400, 447, 688 Verhaar, A. 333 Verschoor, (ornieliu's, 328 Verseput. RokUs, 329 VIerwvev, Isaac, 268 'Vickers, R. H, 401 Vickery, Stephen, 197 Viergever, Daniel, 402 Vincent, Mrs. E. C., 486 Vincent, E. MI., 564 Vincent, J. C., 663 Virgil, J. E., 31:6 Vis, Leonard, 400 Visschers, Gerrit, 268 Viszoczky, Andreas, 52, 6o, 68, 72, 78, 103, 340, 410 Vlekke, M~. I —,49 Vo-t, Francis, 342, 393 Voigt, C. G. A., 299, 425, 66o Voigt, EX., 216 Volland, A. J_, 231, 238 Voorheis, P). 0., 66i Voorheis, WV. C,320 Voorhis, John, 338 Vorst, C, 333, 360 Vos, G, 360 Vos, J H., 335, 338 Vos, IProf., 276 Voss, Willibald, 496 Vrieling, George, 328 Wa-ba-sis, 29, 30 XWab-i-wvid-i-go, Chief, 31 Waddell, George, 469 Wad'dell, John, 469 W~adsworth, A. S, 20, q 87, 426 W~agemaker, Hubrecht, 400, 403 Wagner, G. N., 320, 357 W~ait, J. G., 530, 531, 532 Wa-ka-zoo, Chief, 29 W~akefield, Amos, 3I2 Walch, H. F, 737 Walden, F. L, 96 Walden, G. S, 5 Waldron, F. D, 493 Wales, WV. C, 279 Walker, A. F., 216 Walker, A. J., 331 W~alker, C. I., 6o, 74, 94, 95, 97, 115, 220, 26i, 294, 378, 38S3, 647, 670 WNalker, Mrs C. I., 220 Walker, David, 184, i87/ NWalker, E P., 59 Walker, Ephraim, 382 Walker, J. H,4I2 'Walker, J. NVW 373, 389 Walker, Mary' L., 513 Walker, S., 317 NN'alker, Stephen, 382 W~alker, Thomas, 284 Walker, NV. H. H., 22 8 Walker, NV. R, 300 'Wall, C. A., 281, -283 Wallace, I) J., 695 Wallace, NV., 529 Wallen, J., 542 NWallen, H D., Jr., 216, 440,'533 NWallich, John, 562 Wallin, C. C., 49 Wallin, F. B., 289, 292, 494, 41)5, 538 Wallin, Mrs. F. 13., 228 W-allin, R B., 320 Wallin, V~an A., 292, 495 Walling, S. A., 201 Wallraff, Charles, 495 W~aIt e rs, J. J, 57 4 Walsh, Annie, 232 W~alsh, Lizzie, 232 Walsh 'Mary C., 400 Walsh, Redmond, 402 W~alsh, Richard, 403 W~alsh, Thomas, 401, 403 Walsh, NWm., 403 Walter, J. A., 532 W~altz, Paul-1. 304 W~alton, J. WV., 546 NWansey, A. H., 59, 72, 77, 167 NWansey, Jared, 59 NVanseys, the, i00 NWanty, G. P~., 249, 714 Wanty'. II. G., 263 Ward, Almon, 495, 665 Wvard, C. E., 751I Ward, Charles, 706 Ward, Clara, 237 Ward, C. W., 299 Ward, G. 5., 514 Ward, E..- 470 Ward, E. F., 430 Ward, Eva, 232 W~ard, James, 389 Ward, Michael, 389 Ward, 0. A., 470 NWare, J. B3., 311I, 500 Waring, Adelaide, 318, 321 Waring, Elizabeth F., 322 Waring, H. E., 321, 322, 323, 356, 557 W~aring, John, 495, NWaring, W. L., 125, 65 NWarner, Isaac, 329 XWarner, S.- G., 314 Warrell1, A. M., 147, 403 NWarrell, C. NV., 262, 390, 394, 395. 401, 402, 404 Warrell, F. T., 562 Warrell, Herman, 365 NWarren, J. NV., 316, 321 Wartrous, H. S., i88 NWartrous, S. W, 290 NWartrous, Thirza I., 222 NWartrous, NV. A., 498 NWashburn, E B., 436, 437 W~ashburn, Israel, 436 NWasher, NV. H., 472 NWashington, George, 265, 318, 573 NWas-o-ge-naw, 29 W~asson, Thomas, 492 NWaterloo, A., 337 NWaterman, G. NV., 649 Waters, P1. H., 57, 377, 441, 497, 500, 593, 66o, 675, 684, 689 NWaters, E. D., 394, 400, 427, 593, 594 NWaters, Mary S., 623 NWaters, D. R., 267, 747 NWaters, 0. 5., 497 NWatkins, C. NV., I37 139, 366, 440, 470, 66o, 66i Watkins, M. C., 388, 746 NWatkins, 0. I., 388 NWatson, A., 388 W~atson, A. B., 138, 141, 215, 267, 347, 433, 434, 435, 472, 476, 542, 584, 685, 688, 772 Watson, 1\rs. A. B., 434 NWatson, And'rew, 387 NWatson, Edward, 695, 698, 714 Watson, Mrs. Edward, 252 NWatson, Esther Brown, 433 W~atson, I. M., 88, 401 NWatson, Isaac, 496 Watson, James, 59, 67o, 762 Watson, J. C., 714 NWatson, J. J, 241I W~atson, John, 562 Watson, J. V., 308 Watson, Mrs Dr., 68i Watson, Mrs. Martha A.., 434 Watson, Mary, 313 Watson, Oliver, 433 Watson, Mrs. R. E., 359 Watson,,S. E., 218, 273 Watters, C.M. 564 Watts, Isaac, 315, 316 Wayne, Anthony, 26, 30 Weatherly, C. 5., 284 Weatherly, 0 R., 220 Weatherly, NV. C., i87, 200, 447 Weatherly, W. W., 220, 447 I Weatherwax, B. K., 596 Weatherwvax, J. M., 573 Weaver, J B., 197 W~ebb, George, 285 Webber, G. W., 83 Webber, W. L., I97 Weber, Peter, 304 NWeber, R. J, 33I Webster, A. L., 113 NWebster, Miss Bella, 299 W~ebster, H. 0, 389 Webster, Mary J., 622 NWebster, Mary T., I"3 Webster, Minnie A., 237 NWebster, Mr., 70 Webster, Rose, 234 NWeda, J., 290 Wedge, H. D., 386 Weed, Florence A., 235 Weekes, A# W., 388 Weeks, J. P., 387 Weeks, N. U., 40I Wehnes, Conrad, 316 Weidlen, Henry, 687 Weiden, Huber, 343 Weiden, Hubert, 491 Weil, Henry, 300 Weinstein, W., 30I Weirich, Peter, 204, 394, 395, 687 Welch, A. 5., 676 NWelch, Charles, 538 Welch, Ezekiel, 401, 562 Welch, L. W., 47I Welch, Madison, 169 Welch, Win. H, 82, 86 Weller, D. S. T., 58, 384, 393, 401, 489 Weller, Henry, 346 Weller, J. W., 258 Welles, W.. J., 246, 401, 538, 672, 673, 683 Wells, A. H., 365 Wells, 9T. H., i 8o Wells, H. G., 8 2, 86, 363 Wells, H. H., 8 Wells, Jared, 390, 698 Wells, 0. A., 539 Wells, Revilo, 270, 674 Wells, R. L., 388 Wells, Samuel, 366, 367,, 368, 369, 599 Wells, W. P., 170 Welmers, Albert, 332 W~elmers, A. J., 338 838 838 ~~~~~INDEX OF NAMES. Welmers, Evert, 332 Welsh, D. E., 695, 696, 697, 698, 7I4 Welton, H. P., 319, 357, 359 Welton, J. W., 242 Welton, W. S. H., 459, 509, 510 Wenham, Mrs. C. B., 299 Wenham, J. C., 273, 274, 557 Wenham, Mrs. J. C., 257, 669 Wennerstrom, J. A., 305 Wermers, B. J., 340 Werner, Gustavus, 496 Wesselius, Sybrant, 541, 75', 755 West, Henry, 59 West, G. W., 299 Westcott, John, i88, 444 Westerveld, John, 338 Westfall, W. 0, 401, 755 Westlake, A. C., 309, 346, 509, 728 Westlake, W. W., 665 Weston, B. F., 398, 399 Weston, Benjamin, 398 Weston, C. E., 398 Weston, I. M., 141, 229, 378, 395, 397, 398, 399, 400, 403, 404, 540, 65I, 685, 698 Weston, John, 397 Weston, Joseplh, 398 Weston, W. B., 267, 268, 271, 400 Weston, William, 398 Wetherbee, A., 300 Wetmore, T. E., 387, $10 Whalen, James, 574 Whalen, T. L., 244, 341 Wheeler, A. J., 31I5 Wheeler, A. L., 401 Wheeler, Clara, 358 Wheeler, Mrs. E. A., 358, 359 Wheeler, Edward, 386 Wheeler, J. L., 6o, 97, 322, 387, 502, 663 Wheeler, John, 480 Wheeler, J. M-, 147 Wheeler, Mrs. J. M., 361 Wheeler, Reuben,, 662 Wheeler, Robert, i8i Wheeler, W. K., I82, 228, 340, 346, 393, 571, 662 Wheelock, A. J., 564 Wheelock, Emory, 389,401 Whipple and McGranahan, 139 Whipple, C. W., 731, 732, 736 Whipple, David, 654 Whipple, Mrs. H. C., 221 Whipple, J. E., 70, 71 Whipple, Laurana M., 654 Whipple, W. A., 8 White, Mrs. A. F., 358 White, A. J., 3I4 White, A. S., 221, 269, 271 White, Caroline N., 428 White, C. B., IMi, 340 White, Elizabeth, 221, 239 White, Frank, i68 White, G. H. (merchant), i8i, i86, 385, 386, 394, 418, 419, 420, 532 White, G. H. (lawyer), 142, 401, 745, 754 White, Hattie H., 420 White, Joseph, 419, White, Lucy Rowley, 4I9 White, Luke, 71 White, Milo, 88, 308, 389 White, Nehemiah, 119, 477 White, Samuel, 21, 124, 426, 491, 506, 557 White, Sophronia, 622 White, three brothers, 78 White, T. 5.,. 428, 429, 08i, 685, 689, 780 White, Thos. W, 40, 71I, 120, 428, 518, 781 White, W. 13., 420 White, W. E., 728 White, W. H., 714 Whiteman, D. D. 59 Whitfield, F. J., 25I Whitfield, Mrs. G. F., 5 Whitfield, I. J., 293, 294, 725 Whitfield, Mrs.1Phcebe,197 Whiting, A. B., 345 Whiting, Daniel, 435 Whiting, Oliver, 21 Whitlock, D., 308 Whitman, E. P., 365 Whitmer, H K., 314 NXhitmore, John, 28I Whitney, A. J., 395 Whitney, Ezra, 388, 559 Whitney, G. R., 670 Whitney, job, 389 Whitney, Martin, 387 Whitney, M. H., 388 Whitney, WN. P., 3 87 Whittemore, C. 5., 250 Whittemore, George, 44I Whittemore, John, 497,498 Whittlesey, Chauncey, 752 Whittlesey, F. W., 577 Whitworth, G. G.,. 401,' 473, 500 Whitworth, Herbert, 313, 726 Whitworth, John, 313 Wickham, Harrison, 388 Wickstromn, C. A., 269, 272 Widdicomb, E. L., 480 Widdicomb, George, 465, 466 Widdicomb, George, Jr., 466 Widdicomb, H., 319 Widdicomb, Harry, 466, 779 Widdicomb, John, 313,390, 466, 473 480, 66o Widdicomb, Mrs. J., 253, Widdicomb,XWm., 212,353,, 394, 466, 684 Widoe, Jesse C., 425, 665 Wieland, J., 334 Wiersma, H., 336 Wigle, E., 314 Wilbur, W. L., 576 Wilcox, Josiah, 492 Wildherger, H. G., 7I4 Wilde, Delia, 234 Wilder, Cornelia, 237 Wilder, Horace, 438, 439 Wilkins, Ross, 731 Willard, Henderson, 218 Williams, A. S., I197 W~illiams, Charles, 495 Williams, D., 254 Williams, David, 317 W~illiams, Elisha, 72 Williams, H. R., I112, 122, 295, 389, 393, 417, 464, 497, 519, 520, 537, 545, 557, 766 Williams, J. L., 130, 533 Williams, John, 317 W~illiams, J. R., 669 Williams, Mrs. Mary, 244 Williams, T. W.,47 Williams, W. B., 83 W~illiams, Zahin, 387 Williamson, J. W-, 390, 393, 394, 404 Willson, J. B., 289, 409 Willson, T1..1., 250 Wilmarth, 0. R., 310, 311 496, 66i.XVilmot, C. C., 311 Wilmot, G. H, 294, 395 Wilson, A. A., 3 89 Wilson, Ammon, 572 Wilson, Chester, 388 XWilson, C. 5., 395 Wilson, F. H. C., 732 Wilson, E. R., 728 Wilson, Mrs. Etta S., 26~ Wilson, H. S., 365 Wilson, P. B., 38 8 Wilson, Robert, 170, 263, 264, 394 Wilson, S. A., 6o, 72, 87, 384, 69i, 713 Wilson, WN. A., 698, 715 'Winch, Mrs. C., 346 Winchell, Alexander, 3 Winchester, Alta, 233 Winchester, C. H., 250, 294 Winchester, E. W., 462, 478 Winchester, Mary M.,47 Winchester, S. A., 377,462, 478, 504, 698 Winegar, WNm., 540 Wing, 0. C, 316 Wing, Simon, 255 Wing, Warner, 731 Wing, Win., 306 Winn, Catherine W., 656 Winslow, A. B., 727 Winslow, Jason, 20, 691 Winslow, Maria, 256 XWinsor, Adelaide M., 219, 241 Winsor, Alice, 623 Winsor, IDarius, 54, 55, 59, 87, 98, 99, 219, 362, 365, 426 Winsor, Dexter, 54 Winsor, Emily L., 222 Winsor, Eugene E., 62, 181, 576, 662 Winsor, J. W., 63, 65, 97, 98, 99, 41i6, 765 Winsor, Rosalind, 55 XWinsor, Mrs. Sally, 55 98, 99 Winsor, Z. G., 63, 97, 98, 99, 144, 221, 300, 388, 498, 674, 76i, 765 Winsors,, the, 653 Winter, Eghert, 328 Winter, David, 395 Winter, Mrs. Sophia, 486 Winterburn, J. D.,'312 XWise, H. I.., 387, 597 Wisner, Moses, 83, 197 Witeman, M. H., 490 Witherell, B. F., 383, 73y Witherell, James, 73I Withey, E. WV., 543 Withey, J. H., i8i, 386, 387, 510 XWithey, Julia A., J23 Withey, L. H., 403, 404, 428, 54, 685, 689 XWithey,. Marion L., 104, 135, 219, 341, 353, 354 Withey, Nellie, 250 \Vithey, 0. A., 488, 767 XWithey, Silas, 747 Withey, Solomon, 6o, 72, 73, 86,'gr, 107, 384, 488, 559, 663, 747 Withey, S. L., 96, 104,1I13, 143, 169, 170, 197, 207, 237, 251, 261, 363, 391, 421, 5o6, 543, 546, 674, 675, 741, 743, 745, 746, 747, 748, 753 Withey, Mrs. S. L., 220, 247, 252, 575, 696 Withey, WN. H., 83, 120, 386, 393, 40!, 426, 427, 524, 525, 526, 531, 540, 545, 663 W~olcott, Alfred, 737 Wolcott, L. WV., 289, 751, 755 Wolcott, 1R. N., 467 Wolf, G. A., 75I Wolf, Jacob, 300, 30r XWolihan, A. M., 269 Wonderly, J. H., 467, 685 Wonnink, Eghert, 328 Wood, Arnanda N., 565 Wood, Amasa, 665 W~ood, Arthur, 375, 389, 455 Wood, Eliza, 623 INDEX OF NAMES-PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS. Wood, Miss Frances C., 264 Wood, Mrs. Frances C., 248, 264 Wood, G. 1)., 388 Wood, I. WV, 425 W'ood, Jennie S., 686 W~ood, J. R., 535, 536 XWood, R. E., 119, 678 Wood, Sarah,.486 Wood, Sarell, II19, 288,3 18, 416, 418, 530, 53I W~ood, Stephen, 220, 221, 227 W~ood, WV. A., 685 Wood, WV. H., 251 Wood, WV. I., 387 WoodI, Win., 694, 695, 71"5 Woodard, Jacol), 393 Woodhridge, Xv'm., 83, 731 Woodburn, (. WV., 484 Woodbury, S., 286 Woodcock, R. 13., 212, 228, 374, 394, 395, 689 Woodford, S. H., 268, 300 Woodhams, 1\iss, 696 Woodman, David, 198 Woodruff, Elmer, 729 Woodruff, Jeanette, 68i Woodruff, L. M\, 28 1 Woodward, A. 13., 731 W~oodward, Chiarles, 429 W~oodward, C. 1P., 268 W~oodward, G. WV., 31 Woodward, Kendall, 6o, 87, 97, io6, 322, 388, 653, 662 Woodward, Mrs.MX. F., 486 W~oodward, Win., 494 495 Woodworth, E. C., 388 W~oodworth, Mrs. J. S.,359 Woodworth, Lois. 623 Woodworth, WV. 1., 387 XvVoolley, Stephen, 19 XWoolway, C. J., 694, 7I5 Wooster, David, 477 Wooster, 5. 1)., 280 Wooster, S. R., 587, 694, 695, 696, 697, 698, 715, 728 Worhes, XWm., 403 Worden, A. E., 468 Worden, Mrs. A. E., 355, 68 i, 697 XWorden, F. W., 385, 387, 477, 57I, 584 Worden, I. T., 387 XWorden, Major, 495 Worfel, F. WV., 737 XWorfel, Mrs. F. WV., 486 W~orm, Mrs. Richard, 486 XWormley, S. F., 538 XWormley, Mrs. 5. 1P., 355, 697 Vvormnest, Jan, 332 W~orrall, '1r. D., i68, 270 Worth, Mrs. Lydia, 353, 354 W~right, E. 13., 504 XWright, F. W.,, 695, 698, 716 XWright, N. C., 402 Wright, P1. B., 7i6 XWright, Solomon, 510 Wright, W. 13., 298 XWunderlich, N., 350 XWursbUrg, K., 342 XWursburg, T. 34 2 XWurster, J. C., 316 XWurzburg, C. A., 269 WVurzhurg, I"-, 342 XVurzhurg Frank, 395 \Vuirzhurg, F. J., 728 XWurzhurg, Peter, 400 XWurzbUrg, Therese, 235 XWyckoff, J. C., 224 Wyckoff, J. F., 384 XWyckoff, Joseph, 401 XWyckoff, Jul1ia A., 233 W),yet h, N. J., 11I2 XWykes, E. S., 255 XWykes, George, 349 XWykes, J. P., 388 XWykes, XWarren, 255 W~ylie, H. C., 389, X\%ylie, Hf. H., 389 W~ylie, WV. M., 225 XWyman, Caroline C., 222 Yale, H. P)*, 74 94, 362, 401, 519, 525. 545, 563 Yale, W~elcome, 346 Yaple, G. L.., 198 Yates, Adrian, 182, 273,395 Yentsch, Herman, 487 Yeomnans, Erastus, 54, 71, 76 Yeomans, Mrs. Erastus,55 Yerex, A. E., 311, 357, 395 Yerkes, Anthony, 308 Yerkes, S. A., 389 Yokom, Peter, 313, 314 Yongberg, N. A., 304 York, F. W., 259 York, J. W... 259, 272 Youell, John, 542 Young, Brigham, 398 Young, Charles, 268 Young, Elias, 321 Young, Mrs. Eliza, 32I Young, Geo., 6o, III, 321I, 322, 323, 387,-509, 510 Young, George, Jr., 385 Young, Georgie, -276, 360, 361 Young, Van Epps, 179 Young. W. C., 387 Young, XWilliam, 286 Ypma, M., 326, 327 Zantzinger, W. P., 31 Zaagman, Jelle, J35 Zettema, J-, 335, 336 Zevensina, S. B., 335 Zierlyn, Antone, 487 Zinzer, John, 304, 665 Zuidema, H.,33 Zwerner, —, 326 Zwemer, A. C., 538 SPECIAL 13ERSONAL PAR AGRA PHS. Abel, J. C.. 753 Albright, Joseph, 698 Alden, A. H.., 716 Allen, S. XV., 698 Alley, 11hcebe, A. 1F., 7I9 Almy, John. 102 Anderson, Ebenezer, 765 Angell, Crawford, 538 Arndt, H. R. 719 Atwater, L.. R., i S Avery, N. L, 683 Aylesworth, XV. H., 698 Baars, J F., 683 Babcock, C. 1'., 112 Bailey, 5. S., 512 Ball, D~aniel. 112 Ball, F. W. 263 Barnett, J. M., 678 Barns, Jacoh, io8 Barr, Rohert, 100 LBarstow, H. F., ii6 [3arth, Louis, 699 Baxter, J. J., 114 Baxter, L.. G., 102 Bement, Leonard, 742 B~em-is, Xi-m., 114 lBenedict, E. D., 217 B~entley, XV. 1., 497 Bentum, Jacoh, 699 Best, L. E., 699 JBlakely, W. I., ii8 Bliss, Z. E., 700 IBlumrich, Wenzel, 700 lBodle, A. T., 7I9 Boise, Eugene, 700 Boot, T. A., 701 B~ostwick, F. 13., iio JBotsford, A. 13., 719 Bradfield, T. D., 701 Bieadish, G. M., 716 Brady. John, 701 lBremner, Henry, 119 Brewver, L. A., 701 Briggs, Robert, 513 lBrighamn, G. N., 721 B~righanm. H. C., 72I IBuchanan, J. C., 727 Buell, Lorenzo, 254 B~urnett, David, iro6 lBurton, Barney, ioo Butler, S. F., i io TButterworth, R. E., 114 Butts, Louisa, M., 722 Cady, XV. R., 564 Calkins, C. P., 114 Calkins, W. E., 5I2 Campau, Antoine, 100 Camnpau, Louis, 48 Campau, Touissaint, 115 Campaus, the, 48, 59 Carbert, J. A., 70I Carpenter, H. D., 5I3 Cary, A. X., I114 Catlin, WA. H., 702 Champlin, S. G., 742 Chesebro, E. W., 221 Chipman, 0. H., 702 Chubb, J. F., 100 Church, T. B., 753 Clark, XWm., 702 Coffinberry, W. L., 119 Coggeshall, George, 114 Collins, R. M., ii6 Cook, W. N., 448 Cordes, John, 65 Covell, Leonard, iii Cramton, AManson. 102 Cumning, F. H., 297 Dales, 0. L., 702 Daniels, A. J., 223 Davis, E. W., 100o Dean, Harry, io8 Deane, G. S., ii8S De Camp, WV. H, 702 De Puy, Linus, 703 De Vore, J. A., 703 Dikeman, Aaron, ii i Disbrow, E. D., 703 Droste, C. M., 703 Dunham, E. M., 7i6 Earle, Bessie, 703 Eaton, Harry, 109 840 840 ~~INDEX OF SPECIAL PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS. Edie, J. 0., 703 Edwards, E. G., 704 Eggleston, E. S., 754 Ellis, John, 722 Evans, Amanda J., 723 Everett, Franklin, 240 Failing, J. F., 704 Fisher, E. B., 267 Fitch, G. C., 452 Fitch, J. 0., 452 Foster, W. D., i i6 Fox, J. M., I"7 Fuller, S. L., 512 Fuller, Win., 704 Ganoe, Jesse, 520 Garfield, C. W., 508 Gilbert, F. B., 68o Godfroy, J. F., I114 Godfroy, Richard, ioo Godfroy, WV. H., II4 Godwin, W. R., i00 Granger, Julius, 120 Graves, S. C., 704 Gray, jedediah, 117 Greene, D. M.-, 705 Griswold, J. B., 705 Grove, J. F., 705 Guild,.Joel, 58 Gunnison, J. W., ioj Hake, W. F., 705 Haldane, Win., io8 Harrington, E. F., 267 Harting, Marinus, 256 Hatch, Damon, 117 Hazlewood, Arthur, 705 Hebard, C. E., 706 Hebard, E. A., 706 Hempel, C. J.~, 723 Henry, W. G., 103 Herrick, 0. E., 706 Hillyer; Frances F., 724 Hilton, Robert, 107 Hinds, Calvin, 115 Hinsdill, C. B.,74 Hinsdill, Hiram, i0i Hinsdill, Myron, 103 Hoag, F. L., 724 Hogadone, G. P., 5I3 Holden, H. 5., 716 Hollister. J. H., 707 Holmes, E. 5., 727 Hosken, J. B., 707 Holt, C. H., 707 H-owland, Samuel, 103 Hoyt, W. F., 707 Hughes, D. D, 754 Hunt, De Forest, 724 Hunt, E. H., 683 Hulst, Henry, 707 Jenison, Hiram, 119 Jennings, Howard, 120 Johnson, C. A., 707 Johnson, S. M., ii6 Johnston, C. H., 709 Jones, Ira, ioo Jones. Wilson, 662 Judd family, 599 Kellogg, 0. C., 513 Kellogg, Truman, IIO, 506 Kendall, H. D., 709 Kirkland, John, 'iir Kirkland, R. J. 70 Knapp, E. U., 512 Laubenstein, D. A, 709 Leffingwell, C. XV., 117 Leonard, Heman, 656 Lincoln, Luther, ioo L.ivin-ston, J. M., 513 Locher, H. E., 710 Luce, R. C..- 567 Lupinski, H-ugo, 710 I.uton, R.- M-, 724 Lyman brothers, ioi Lyon, Lucius, 1oi Lyon, S. XV.,1 51I3 Lyon, T. H., i i6 McClure brothers, i i8 McColl, J. A., 710 McCray, G. 51.-, 438 McCray, James, iii McPherson, J:' A., 710 MINcReynolds, A. 'f., 57I McWhorter, David, 710 Marion, Joseph, ioi Marks, W. L., 716 Marsac, Daniel, 117 Martin, George, 732 Martin, Lewis, iiS Marvin, La Dor, 724 IMathison, John, 117 Maxim, C. H., 710 Miller. G. 13., 710 Miller, R. E., 711 Mills brothers, 109 Milner, S. G., 724 Mitchell, I. N., 225 Moore, Love]], io6 'Moseley, Charles, 115 Moseley, XV. G.,I ir5 Moran, Louis, i09 Morman, Win., ii i Morse, J. H., 267 Morrison, Jefferson, ioi TMorrison, WV. 13., 711 Mulbern, James, 71I Nelson, J. M., 109 N ichols-XWan ty, Em ma, 714 Nyland, Albertus, 716 Osterhout, S. WV., 433 Page, Abel, 109 Page, A. T., 5o6 Page, L. M-VI.107 Pannell, John, io8 Parker, J. C., 727 Parks, R 5., 117 Parrish, I. H.,74 Patterson, A. J., 711 P~atterson, Luciuls, 754 Pattison, G. WV., ii5 Peirce, J. WV., 105 Penwarden, XV. 1., 711 IPerkins, S. F., 104 Peters, J. D. 716 P~eterson, Reuben, 711 P ettibone, K. S., 117 IPhilbrick, H. H., us8 I hilbrick, Joel, iuS 1Phillips, james, 115 Ilike, A XV, 764 Porter, Lewvis, ii8 IPotter, J. S- mo lost H. C. 678 P)ressey, A. J., 712 P~yle, llenjaminl, 712 Rathbone, Amos, 104, 105 Rathbun, Charles, 120 Rathbun, L. K., 562 Reed, Ezra, ioo Ringuette brothers, 104 Roberts, Amos, 658 Roberts, N. J),,io Rogers, Jacob, 11 Rogers, L. A., 727 Rumsey, J, A., 110 Rutherford, Frances A., 7I2 Salmon, Archibald, iio Sargeant, E. E., 261 Sargeant, N~ 0., 102 Sargeant, Thomas. Sr., 107 Saunders, H. G-, 713 Schouten, R. A., 713 Schurtz, Perry, 713 Scott, J. H., 117 Scott, John, 115 Scribner, James, 107 Seymour, Henry, 117 Sexton, Bliss, 728 Shepard, Charles, 713 Shoemaker, R. 1., 208 Short, James, 120 Shotwell, XV. 5., 725 Sibley, Aaron, 120 Sibley, XWillard, is8 Sinclair, 1). S., 725 Sinclair, M. C., 725 Smith, A. H., 103 Smith, 'Mrs. Ann, 56o Sm~ith, Canton, 108 Smith, H. C. I105 Smith, J. Mortimer, 1 17 Smith, Thomas, 215 Spencer, R?. H., 7I3 Squier, J. XW., 117 Stevens, R. H., 713 Stewart, 5. S., 118 Stocking, TBillius, 107 Stone, Henrv, iii Strong, E. A.- 222 Strong, E. 13., 714 Taylor, C. H., io6 Taggarlt, MNoses, 734 TIhompson, A. 13., 714 Thompson, J. P-., 5o8 Thum, X\Vm., ii8 T racy, P hilander, ii6 1Turner, Demetrius, 520 Tlurner, IE. H-., ioo1 Zlurner, Isacc, 104 Veenboer, Melle, 716 XViszoczky, Andlreas, 103 XWalker, C. I., I115 XWatson, Edward, 714 XVelsh, D. E-, 714 XVenham, Mr. and M'rs. J. C., 257 \Vhite, G. H. (lawyer), 754 White, Nehemiah, 119 Vvhite, 1 XV., I20 W~hite, XXV H., 714 AX hitfuied L J-, 725 W~hitworth, Herbert, 726 X~ildberger, H. G., 714 XXillisms, H. R., 112 WI Is on, SA., 715 XWilson, X. A., 715 XWinso-r, Darius, g8 Wlnsor, E E., 662 XWithey, Solo moo, 107 XVithey, XV. H., 120 XWood, Sarell and R.E., 11i9 XWood, XWm., 715 W~oodruff, Elmer, 729 Woodward, Kendall, io6 XVoolway, C. J-, 715 XWooster, S. R., 715 XWormley, S. R), 538 W~right, F. XV., 716 Wright, P". 13., 716 Young, George, iii BUSINESS FIRMS MIENTIONED. Adams &: CO. 486 Adams &, North, 460 Aldrich & I- vans, 87 Alger, R A. & CO., 590 Alger, Smith & Co., 590 Alling~ham & Bantnerman, 449 Antrim B~rothers, 499 Austin, Iralick &. Co., 68o A ve ry, N. L. & Co., 41 8 Bachman & Priestly, 498 Ball &- Baxter, 486 13a11 & IButterworth, 439 Ball, Daniel & Co., 673,677 Ball, Daniel & SOn, 438, 439 Ball &- McKee, 222 13all, Martin & Withev, 747 13all, Noyes & Colby, 46i Ball & Watters, 564 Ball & -Witliey, 747 Barker & Almv, 653, 728 IBarlow Brothers, 274 Barnhart,0sterhout& Fox, 43' Barns, Jacob & CO., 261, 262, 273 Barstow &- Jennins47 IBaxter &- Green, 452 Baxter, L. G. & A., 452 Baxt-r, I- G & J. L., 452 Bennett & Oshun, 379 B~erke y Bros. & Gay, 465 Berke), & Ga,465 IBerkey & Gay Co. I133,465 Berkev & Mlatter, 465 Blakeley & jenison, 430, 447 Bliven & Allyn, 666 Blod ett 8. Iyrne, 686 Boynton, C. A. & Co., 456, 460 IBrandlt, G. WV. & CO., 204 Brink Brothers & Quint, 499 Brobst &~ H-imies, 440 Brogger & IPulte, 49I Brogger & Weiden, 491 IBrown, Clark & CO., 488, 489 Brown & Sehler, 460 Buchanan & CO., 274 Buitterfield & Keeney, 755 Butterfield & XWithey, 755 Butterworth & Lowe, 211, 416 Campbell & Beach, 56o Cappon & Bertsch Leather (.o 494 Carpenter & A\dams, 272 Caipenter & G;arnier, 271 Carpenter, Judd & Co.,447 Carroll & Lyon, 652 Carroll, M F. & (C(, 267 Cary, A. X. &'CO., 424 Cary &- Coillins, 56o Cary, E S. & C 0., 498 Chase, Hawley & Quivey, 448 Chilver, J. & CO., 274 Church & Judd, 665 Church, Judd & CO.,49 Clancy & Brother, 653 Clark & Hedges, 470 Clark, I. M. & Son, 656 Colby, Craig & CO., 458 Colby, Sons & CO.', 455 Co~lby, Woo(d & CO., 455 Collins, Hughes & Co, 481 Comstock, Nelson &- Co., 462 Comstock &~ \VIartrous, 429 Congdon & Co., 488S Cook & Evans, 670 Cook & Seymour, 458S Cooper B~rothers, 493 CorI1, Knott & Co., 658 Creswvell & Felker, 270 Crockett & Hoppins, 471 Cummings & Yale, 656 lDay, R. L. & Co., i65 IDeane & Atwater, 459 Dean Printing & Publishing CO., 273 DeGraaf, Rademaker & Nyland, 494 JDeGraaf, Vrieling & Co., 430 DeLong & Scrihuer, 447 TDenison & Wright, 486 Dickinson Brothers, 273 IDillenback, J. D.& CO., 273 IDitric & Hoffman, 449 IDolhee, James & CO., 413 TDolbee, Kennedy & CO., 413 Dorsey & Thornton, 56o Dregge & Hodenpyl, 430 IDurfee, Allen & Co.,' 4I2 Durham, Silas & CO., 205 Dunham, Peters & Co., 430, 651 Eagles &- lPullman, 461 Earle & Reynolds, 189 Eaton & Christenson, 492 Eaton & Lyon, 274, 766 Eaton, Lvon & Co., 656 Eaton, Lyon & Allen Printing CO., 273, 274 Emery & Co,666 Farr, J. S. &CO., 363 Farr &- Vincent, 663 Ferry & Sons, 428 Fiebig & 1Rasch, 458 Fiebig & Rathman,455,458 Fitch, G. C. & J. 0., 452 Fletcher & Wanty, 751 Folger, J. B. & Sons, 502 Fordham & CO., 263 Foster, Martin & CO., 444, 449 Foster & ParrY, 444, 445, 65 2 Foster, Stevens & CO., 444, 445, 447, 652, 657 Frost &- RuL1mann, 498 Fuller &: 1ice, 430 Fuller & Stowe P'rinting and Engraving CO., 273, 275 Fultoni, Wnm. & Co., 492 Gardiner & B~axter, 486 (Gardner & Armitage, 424 CGessler, J. & CO., 204 Gidldings & Latimer, 665 GIll & Greenley, 563, 564 Grodfrey, F. & B~rother, 418 Godfrey & W~hite, 420 Godwin & Adsit, 755 Godwin, Adsit& McKnight, 749 Godwin & Adzit, 272 Goodrich & Gay, 447 Gordon & Thompson, 262, 270 Gough, Richard & CO., 274 Grand Rapids Engraving CO., 274 Granger & B3all, 90, 261, 417, 656 Granger & Hall, 56o Granger & Mills, 560 Granger, NV. & Co., 87 Grinnell, H & CO., 424 Gunn, W. S. & CO., 447 Hake & Vogt, 767 Hanes & Highy', 460 Hann, Timothy & CO., 27I Harford &Al tschwager, 272 Harford & McDowell, 267 Harrington, N. A. & Co., 430 Hartmann & Dietz, 442 Hartmann, F. & CO., 442 Hawkins, Perry & Co, 656 Hazeltine & IPerkins. 59 Heath & Neal, 255 Heinzelmann Osterle & CO., 455 Heinzelmann & R~athmnan, 455 Henry' & Holmes, 743 Heusen & Reynders, 273 Henshaw & Hiuotly, 66~ Herrick, G. D. & CO., 259 Hester & Fox, 460 Hewes, G. W. & CO., 498 Hibbard & Graff, 425 Hibbard, Rose & Co.,-425 Hibbard, W. & CO., 425 Hill, L. 5. & CO., 448 Himes, John & CO., 440 Hinsdill Brothers & Co., 274 Hirth & Krause, 495 Holden, E. G. D. & Sons, 648 Holmes & Champlin, 749 Hopkins & Friant, 429 Houseman & Co., 682 Houseman, Donnally & Jones, 484, 485, 656 Houseman & May, 682 Hovey & Co., i88, 420, 421 Hubbard & Barker, 258 Hufford & Randall, 271 Hughes & O'Brien, 758,759 Hughes, O'Brien & Smiley, 758, 759 Hum, A. B. & CO., 447,449 Hunt & McCall, 449 Hutchinson & Bayne, 255 Judd & CO., 4( Jurgen, C. & Bro., 275 Kelley, D. & J. 5., 430 Kelley & Livingston, 430 Kendall, George & John, 653 Kendall, J. F. & CO., 498 Kendall & Mack, 460 Kenning, J. E. & CO., 498, 656 Killinger & Lamnparter,665 Kingsley & Kleinhans, 751 Klys & Shaw, 564 Kortlander & Grady, 205 Kortlander & Murphy, 205 Koster, J. & C-o.,49 Koster & Kruger, 189, 494 842 842 I~~~~NDEX OF BUSINESS FIRMS. Kromer & DeWindt, 44.7 Kromer, N. B. & Son, 447 Kuhn & Moeller, 493 Kusterer & Mangold, 207 Landauer & Brother, 492 Langrishe & Atwater, 567 Earaway & CO, 490 Lawrence, D. C. & CO., 261 Ledyard & Aldrich, 392, 459, 67,+ Lemon, Hoops. & Peters, 651 Lemon & Peters, 656, 657 Leonard & Sons, 214, 656, 768 Letellier & White, 429 Long, A. B. & Son. 426,442 Loomis & Onderdonk, 273 Lyon & Sargeant, 424, 426 McCord & Bradfield, 472 Mc'Cray Brothers & Co., 438 McCray, James & CO., 439 McDermot Brothers 44 McDermot & Runions, 449 McDonald & Emerson, 447 McIntyre & Goodsell, 259 Mangold, Hibbard & Co., 425 Mangold, Kusterer & Co., 425 Manns, Soule & Cc)., 449 Mari, DeGraaf & CO- 4 Martin & Wurzbuirg, 269, 273 Marvin &.CO., 270 Meigs, Arthur & Co., 651 Messmore & Stevens, 263 Miller & Collins, 481 Miller & Stanton, 498 Milmine & Williamson, 497 Mills& Lacey, 215, 502,728 Mohl, E. & CO., 499 Mohl & Van Alstine, 499 Montgomery & Bundy, 751I Moore, Alger & CO., 590 Moore & Griffin, 755 More & Wilson, 75I Morgan, E. B. & CO., 417, 418 Morman & Hill, 488 Morris, Nelson & Co., 658 Morse, J. H. & CO., 261 Morse, M. E. & CO., 26T Moulton & Rempis, 449 Munson & Knapp, 507 Murphy & CO., 273 Musselman & Widdicomb, 657 Neal Sisters, 486 Nelson, Comstock & Co., 429, 462, 464 Nelson, G. C. & Co., 653 Nelson, J. M. & Co., 652 Nelson, J. M.. & G. C., 670 Nelson, Matter & Co., i90, 363, 462, 464, 664, 768 Nevins, J. S. & Son, 274 Nelson Brothers & CO., 274 Nichols & Naysmith, 66 Noble & CO., 212 Norcross & CO.,49 Norris & Ninde, 751 Norris & Norris, 750 Norris & Uhl, 75I Noyes & IBerkey, 430 O'Brien & Powers, 4I3 Olney & Judson, 657 Osgood & Bla~ke, 77 Osterhout & Fox, 430, 43 1, 433 Overbeck & De Heus, 488 Pantlind & CO., 56o Pantlind & Lyon, 56o Parker & Green, 498 Parker & Town, 492 Platerson & Clarke, 273 Patten, C. H. & L. E., 653 Peirce, J. XV. & P. R. L., 653 Perkins & Co., 643 Perkins & Woodward, 494, 653 Perkins & Company, 443 IPerkins IBrothers & Co., 189 Peters & Co)., 687 Pew Brothers, 430 Plumb, E., Sons& Co., 651 P'olk, R. L. & CO., 27.3 IPorter, C. 0. & A. D., 450 Powers & Ball, 643 Powers, Ball & CO., 426 Powers, XV. 1'. & Son, 440, 44' IPowers &WXalker, I190, 41I2 Powers & XWhitv —, 441 Putnam & Brooks, 190, 493 494 Putnam Brothers, 493 Quigley, J. F. & CO., 430 Rademaker, H-. & Sons, 5oo Raig~uel, W. F. & CO., 430 Ramsey & Son, 49' Randall & Darragh, 673 Rathbun & Moore, 564 Reeder, Palmer & Co)., 495, 496 Renwick & Graves, 459 Rice & Kelley, 559 Rice & Tearse, 189 Richmond & Seymour, 498 Rickard B~rothers, 44 Rindge, Bertsch & Co., 495, 658 Riordan & Kaiser, 494 Roberts, G. R. & Co., 686 Roberts & Son, 653 Robinson, Letellier & Co., 429 Robinson, Solomon & Co.. 427, 429 Robinson, White, Williams & CO., 518 Root, A. A. & CO., 272 Rose & Covell, 653 Rowson Brothers, 430 Ruissell & Simmons, 457 Rutherford & Houseman, 485 Sanford & WAood, 653 Schmidt Brothers, 447 Schmidt, Charles & Bros., 490 Schneider, H. & CO., 499, 656 Schram & Fox, 494 Scribner & Turner, 550 Scribner, W. R. & Bros., 648 Sears & Merchant, 492,493 Sears, Win. & CO., 492,493 Secor & Co)., 687 Sekell & Davidson, 546 Seymour & IBaldwin, 489 Shepard & Putnam, 653 Shoemaker, I) W. & Co., 491 Shriver, Weatherly & Co., 363, 447. 441) Skinner & Willard, 66i Slocum & Bolt, 271 Simonds, J. C. & Son, 443 Sinclair & King, 221, 653 Smiley & lEarle, 751, 759 Smith, A. H. & Co., 652 Smith, Aldrich & Evans, 87 Smith & CO., 363 Smith, 13. & Cc), 653 Smith & IBrownell, 424,670 Smith, Henry S. & Co. 491 Smith & Sanford, 656 Smith, T. & CO, 449 Smith & Van Allen, 20, 550 Sokup & Co., 447 Spraker & Hogadone, 274 Spring & Avery, 65 Spring & CO., 2 I5, 654, 65 Sproul & McGurrin, 449 Squier & White, 429 Stanly & Schroeder, 484 Stanton, L. B. & CO., 269, 273 Steketee, P3. & Sons, 656 Sterling & Dugan, 49I Stevens, B. R. & Sons, 427 Stevens & Sons, 427 Stewart & NMcReynolc(Is, 1 25 Stiven, Brown & Clark,488 Stockwell, A. E. & CO., 498 Stone, Chubb & CO-, 459 Stone, Deane & CO., 438 Stone, H. G. & CO.,,92, 438 Stow & Davis, 469 Stowe, E. A. & Brother, 269, 272 Strahan & Long, 190, 480 Stuart & Knappen, 750 Sweet & P~erkins, 738, 75I Swift, L. F. & Co., 658 Taggart & Allen, 734 'laggart & TDenison, 750 Taggart & W~olcott, 734 Talford & Goodrich, 491 Talford & Porter, 653 Taylor & Barns, 124, 125, i88, 372, 767 Thompson & Robertson, 449 Tillotson & Blodgett, 686 Todd & Boorhem, 564 Turner Co., The A. B., 294 Tyroler & Truscott, 522 U~hl & Crane, 750, 751 Van Every, G. WV. & Co., 492 Van Houten & De Haan, 272 Vincent, J. C. & W. S.,663 Voigt, C. G. A. & Cc).-, 4 25, 643 Voigt & Herpolshheimer, 425 IVoigt, Herpolshe~mer & Co., 656, 658 XWalhridgye & L.ansing, 112 \Vallin, &' C. & Sons, 494 Ward, E. A. & G. S., 564 Ward, Skinner & Brooks, 430 W~ard & W~ard, 755 W~ard, E. & D., 665 Watson & KlYs, 564 W~eatherly & Pulte, 373, 379, 449 W~erner, I'. M. & CO., 493 W~est, J. C. & Co, 728 West Michigan Printing CO., 273 Wetzell B~rothers, 430 Wheeler, R. & Co., 663 White & Avery, 428 W~hite & Friant, 429 White, Friant & Letellier, 429, 430.WVhite, G. H. & CO., 234, 41i8, 420 Whitley, Rindge & CO., 495 WVhitworth & Alden, 447 W~hitworth, John & Co., 447 XWithey, L. H. & CO., 427 WNilliamrs & Smith, 440 W~ilson & Harvey,, 768 Winchester, E. V & S. A., 462 Wonderly & CO., 426 W~oocl, Sarell & CO, 418 Worfel, A. F. & CO., 449 \Vuirzbutrg, F. A., 658 Yale, F. D. & CO., 504 York, J. WV & Son, 272 Young & Luther, 653 GENERAL INDEX OF TOPICS. I'A(;E. Academy, Grand Rapids...................... 239 Academy, M ercantile.......................... 241 Academy, St. Andrews'....................... 244 Academy, St. M ark's......................... 244 Addendum............................. 793 Agents, Indian.............................. 44 Agricultural fairs, early.....................93, 94 Agricultural and Industrial Society, WXestern M ichigan......5.,......................... 5 Agricultural Society, Kent County............. 509 Agricultural Society, Northern Michigan....... 507 Agricultural Society, State................... 506 A labastine................................... 504 Aldine fire place.........................450, 504 Algonquins, the.............................. 22 American Fur Company...................... 26 A. 0. U. W. Grand Lodge.................. I42 Appomatox, rejoicing over................... 126 A rcheology................................ 14-19 Artesian XVells............................21 -212 Asphalt I'aving.............................. 793 Assassination of -'resident (Garfield............ 136 Assassination.of Lincoln, mourning over....... 126 Assembly Halls, early........................ 566 Assessments in city, by Wards-1872 to 1890..790, 79I Association of Michigan Surveyors and I ngineers. 129 Assessors, C ity.............................. 40I A ttorneys, ( ity.............................. 745 Attorneys of Kent County, Roll of............. 757 Attorneys, IProsecuting....................... 737 Authors and Publications................. 275-277 B agging a 3ear.............................. 64 Bailey, Francis, Experience of............... 45-46 B akeries.................................... 492 Ball, John, Arrival in Grand River Valley...... 7.Ball, John, early sketches by...............70-78 Ball, John, land purchases by................. 7 Bank Clearing House....................... 689 Bank, City National.......................... 678 First N ational........................... 674 Fourth National......................... 685 Fifth N ational........................... 687 Grand Rapids National.................. 684 Grand Rapids Savings................... 684 Grand River.........................73, 669 Kent County Savings..................... 688 National City............................ 68i O ld N ational............................ 674 People's, Monroe Street.............. 73, 670 Bank System, National..................... 668 Banking and Exchange, private........672, 673, 674 Banks and Bankers........................ 667 B3anks, first in Grand Rapids.................. 73 Banks, wild-cat.......................... 73 Banner Presentation to Grand Rapids Guard... 136 Bar Association............................ 751 'AGE. Bar, the.................................. 753 Barrel Works............................ 497 Base ball and croquet sets.................. 500 Battle of Bennington Centennial.............. 134 Battles, Indian.............................. 23 Bear in a pig pen........................... 64 Bears about the city....................... I27 Beer and Breweries.................. 203 Beer, retail traffic in........................ 204 Bell ringer engaged.................... 93 Below zero temperature.................... 128 Bench and ar.............................. 730 B ench, the................................. 752 Bending W orks............................ 460 Bent W'ork, Mack's.......................... 456 Bible Society, Kent County.................. 355 Billiard tables............................... 502 Births, early............................. 62 Blacksmithing.............................. 443 13'Nai B'Rith, I. 0. of........................ 633 Board of Education......................... 227 Board of Health........................... 697 Board of Iolice and Fire Commissioners...... 404 Board of P'ublic WVorks....................... 403 Board of Review'and Equalization............ 404 Board of Supervisors by towns and wards....386-390 Board of Trade........................... 660 B oat building................................ 501 B oating, early............................... 515 Boiler W'orks, Central.................... 440 Boiler \Vorks, Grand Rapids................ 443 Bookbinders................................. 273 Booksellers and stationers.................... 274 Boot and shoe making........................ 495 Bost,,ick road discontinued................... 160 Botanic Physicians.......................... 728 Bottling business............................ 502 Bounty loan voted......................... 158 Bounty to soldiers authorized............... 158 Iowls, clothes pins, faucets.................. 499 Box making................................ 498 Brass and bronze work,........................ 449 Brick block fall of a......................... 122 Irick buildings, early........................ 766 Brick business blocks, modern............... 768 Brick and stone masons.................... 663 B rick and tile.............................. 488 Bridge burned.............................. 123 Bridge, C. & W. M authorized............... 164 Bridges across Grand River................544-547 Bridge tolls abolished........................ 161 Bronson mortgage canceled................... 126 Broom making.............................. 477 B3rush Company............................ 476 Buggies, spiral spring........................ 457 Builders and contractors...................... 662 Building in 1869............................ 129 Building improvements in 1888-89............. 66 844 GENERAL INDEX OF TOPICS. PAGFK. Building and Loan Associations.............. 639 Buildings, first frame...................... 761 Buildings and Homes........................ 761 Burglary at the post-office................... 141 Burke, John, shooting of..................... 123 Burning of Steamer Michigan................. 125 Burns Club................................. 636 Burns festival, first........................... 124 Business associations......................... 639 B usiness in I845............................ 92 Business Men's Convention................... 140 Buss Machine Works......................... 443 Cabinetmakers, early........................ 461 Cable cars start............................ I41 Cable railway work begun................. I39 Calkins law office........................... 762 Campau, Louis, Government instructions to.... 48 Campau Place, buildings torn out............. I31 Cam p-m eetings.............................. 141 Canal at the rapids.................... 516 Canal basin..........................93, 158, 5I6 Canal street paving, first..................... 124 Canal street paved with asphalt............... 793 Canal street planked......................... I56 Carey M ission........................... 50 Carriages, children's................... 457 Cars, first arrival......................... 23, 528 Cars, first train of from the south........... 129 Casket Company............................ 412 Cast iron water main across the river.......... 65 Catholic Church burned.................. 94 Cedar block paving in Canal street..........163 Cemeteries, City.........................409-4 11 Cemetery Commissioners................... 411 Cemetery ground purchases.............. 156 Centennial, Celebration.................... 134 Central High School....................... 230 Chair making, early.......................... 477 Cholera appears....................... 93 Chosen Friends, O. of...................634 Chicago, Milwaukee and Grand Rapids, beginnings of.................................. 63 Chippewas, the............................. 22 Church bell, first............................ 9I Church, Old Congregational.................. 74 Churches of Grand Rapids................ 279-35 Churches, statistical summary of..............351 Church HistoriesSeventh Day Adventists................. 279 Calvary Baptist.......................... 285 Fountain Street Baptist.................. 280 Messiah Baptist......................... 284 Second Baptist......................... 283 Wealthy Avenue Baptist................. 283 Bible Christians........................ 285 Children of Zion......................... 285 Park Congregational..................... 286 Second Congregational................... 289 South Congregational.................... 290 Smith M emorial......................... 29 Disciples.............................. 293 St. M ark's Episcopal..................... 294 G race................................... 299 St. Paul's M emorial..................... 299 T rinity................................. 300 Oakdale Park............................ 300 Temple Emanuel, Hebrew.............. 300 l'A(;E. German Lutheran...................... 302 St. John's Lutheran...................... 304 Swedish Lutheran....................... 304 Swedish Missionary...................... 305 Free M ethodist...................... 306 W esleyan Methodist.................... 306 Division Street M. E..................... 307 Second Street M. E...................... 312 East Street. E........................ 314 Plainfield Avenue M. E.................. 314 Am es M. E.............................. 315 German M. E........................... 316 A frican M. E............................ 317 African M. E. Zion...................... 317 First Presbyterian...................... 318 Westminster Presbyterian............... 319 Mission Wood Presbyterian.............. 320 Immanuel Presbyterian.................. 321 First Reformed......................... 321 Second Reformed....................... 326 Third Rieformed......................... 328 Fourth Reformed........................ 329 Fifth Reformed......................... 321 Oakdale Park Reformed................. 333 Christian Reformed...................... 333 Dutch Reformed......................... 333 Holland Reformed...................... 334 Spring St. Christian Holland Reformed.... 334 East St. Holland Christian Reformed...... 335 Coidbrook Holland Christian Reformed.... 336 Alpine Avenue Holland Christian Reformed. 339 Fourth Holland Christian Reformed....... 337 Fifth Holland Christian Reformed......... 338 Crosby Street Holland Christian Reformed. 339 True Reformed.......................... 339 St. Andrew's Catholic.................... 340 St. Mary's Catholic...................... 342 St. James' Catholic....................... 343 St. Adelbert's Catholic................... 343 St. Joseph's Catholic..................... 344 St. Alphonsus Catholic................... 344 Swedenborgian.......................... 346 U nitarian............................... 347 Liberal Unitarian (Holland).............. 348 United Brethren......................... 349 Universalist............................. 349 German Evangelical Zion's............... 350 Cigars and tobacco........................... 499 Circuit Courts............................... 735 City Attorneys............................... 745 City Charter..........................(4, 149-153 City Clerks, 1850 to I889................. 393-395 City, (Ceographical P'osition................... 2 City Grade bench established................. 159 City Hall................................ 66, 376 City letter delivery........................... 365 City lot purchased........................... i6i City Marshals, 1850 to 1889................ 193-195 City I'arks...............................405-407 City Physicians.............................. 698 City Printer appointed....................... 155 City Recorders......................393, 394, 741 City, reference to laws concerning............. 153 City Seal............................... 154, I56 City, Site of the.............................. 2 City vote on prohibition..................... I65 City Water. Works history.................208-21I Clairvoyant physicians....................... 729 Clearing House, Bank................... 140, 689 GENERAL INDEX OF TOPICS. 84.5 I'A(;I,. Clerks, City, 1850 to 1889..................393-395 Clerks, County, 1837 to 1889.................. 384 Climate of Western Michigan............... 17I Club buildings............................... 568 Coldbrook Cemetery, mention of.............. 155 C old cycle................................... 13 Cold night in the woods....................... 68 Cold weather dates........................... 72 Collectors, City........................... 402 Collins Hall Blcck.......................... 767 Commercial Block.......................... 764 Commercial, College.......................... 241 Commerce, export and home..............658, 659 Commissioners. Cemetery.................... 411 Commissioners, Highway..................... 403 Commissioners, Police and Fire............... 404 Commissioners, Street....................... 403 Common Council doings.................... I54-66 Common Council, members of, 1850 to I889 inclusive..................... 393-395 Concert Hall............................. 767 Confectionery.............................. 493 Congress, Members of from the Fifth District.. 83 Constables, City............................ 401 Consulship................................ 521 Controllers, City............................. 400 Convention of Superintendents of the Poor.... 135 C ooperage.................................... 496 County Boundaries, early.................... 83 County Court H ouse......................... 371 County Clerks............................... 384 County Government......................... 384 C ounty Jail.................................. 374 County Office site purchased.................. I57 County Records burned...................... I24 County Registers of Deeds................... 385 County Sheriffs.............................. 384 County Surveyors........................... 386 County Taxes, by wards.................. 79,I 792 County 'reasurers.......................... 385 Court-house, first, burned................ 9 Court, Mayor's and Recorder's............... 741 Court, Police.............................. 744 Court, Probate............................. 740 Court, Superior.......................... 742 Court, Supreme............................. 729 Courts of Chancery......................... 735 Courts, C ounty.............................. 746 Courts, C ircuit.............................. 735 C ourts, I)istrict.............................. 735 Courts, Justices'............................ 739 Courts, United States...................... 746 Crescent Park planned....................... 156 Cruel death by fire, the....................... 38 Cutter making, early......................... 451 Custer Guard armory dedicated............... 137 Cyclone, story of a........................... 65 Daily mail established........................ 93 Daily stage from Jackson..................... 121 Death of a centenarian....................... 140 I)eath in the woods........................ 55 Death Ienalty, Indian........................ 37 Ieath records required....................... 162 Deaths by drowning.......................... 123 Ieaths by explosion of a blast................. 37 Deaths of early settlers, alphabetical list....... 624 Deaths of Kent County soldiers during service, alphabetical list......................... 614-621 PAGE. Deaths at the Soldiers' Home, alphabetical list. 369-371 Decoration Day, first formal................. I29 D eep snow............1.................... I30 ''Deep Well" boring begun................... 40 " Deep Well" strata........................ 5 Dental Association........................... 728 D entistry.................................... 727 Diamond wall finish.......................... 504 Directories, City............................ 273 Directors of the I'oor, City................... 400 Diseases, prevalent........................... 693 D istrict Courts............................... 735 District school beginnings..................... 220 Don Quixote, steamer....................... 260 Double street railway tracks permitted......... 165 D ray, first.................................. 92 Dressmaking............................... 486 Drugs and medicines........................ 728 Dwelling house, first......................... 55 Dust blowers................................ 500 Early banking............................... 669 Early buildings.......................... 761-766 Early descriptions......................... 69-80 Early elections............................... 73 Early pencil sketch, 1832..................... 52 Early residents, personal sketches of.........98-120 Early settlers, a few.......................... 72 Early settlers, places of......................77-78 E arly snow.................................. 35 Early wagon roads........................... 523 East Side canal, beginning of................. I02 East Side canal completed................... 516 Eastern Star, order of........................ 629 Eclipse of the sun, I869...................... 129 Edge tool m aking............................ 447 Education, Board of....................... 227, Election, first town.......................... 85 Elm trees in Bostwick street.................., ii Errata, table of.............................. 794 Eight hour labor day adopted.................. 159 Electric lighting......................... 136, I63 Electric lights and power.................... 215 Electric power for street cars.................. 66 Electric street railway....................541, 793 Elks, B. P. 0. of............................ 633 Emancipation Day........................... 38 Emily Campau claim settled................. 134 Engine house appropriation............... 56 Engine house, first........................... 155 Engine houses................. 84-I86 English sparrows, Poundmaster instructed to kill. i65 Engraving and electrotyping................. 274 Enterprising pioneers.................... 8-I20 Events of forty years......... I.........21-142 Everett, Franklin, early sketch by............. 79 Everett, Franklin, poetic address........... 44 Explorers, first white...................... 45-46 Express lines................................ 538 Execution, an Indian........................ 37 Excelsior making............................ 480 Factories burned............................. 136 Farm, garden and stock...................... 505 Farmers' Club, West Michigan................ 510 Farming implements........................ 459 Fa'st driving in streets................. 58, 162 846 GENERAL INDEX OF TOPICS. PAGE. Fatal accidents..............14......., i42 Fatalities in the active service, alphabetical list....................................614-621 Felt boots and shoes.................. 496 Female saloon waiters forbidden............... 162 Fifty-six winters..........................74-178 File Works, Valley City..................... 449 Financial crash of i837.................... 60, 78 Financial stringency................... 90 Fire alarm system........................... 62 Fire bell...........................163, 183 Fire at Bridge street, great.................... 131 Fire companies, early..................... 18, 182 Fire Department..........................181-187 Fire in Exchange Place...................... 126 Fire engines, hand....................... 82-183 Fire engines purchased....................... 155 Fire engines, steam.......................... 83 Fire, first large............................ 123 Fire ladder and truck....................... 500 Fire losses-eighteen years................... 793 Fire at Lyon street........................... 27 Firemen, alphabetical list..................... i86 Firemen's Fund Association................... 187 Firemen's pay voted........................ 157 Fire Wardens.............................. 82 Fire, West Bridge street...................... 33 Fires on Canal street, heavy.................. 130 Fires, Chicago and Holland................... I30 Fires, disastrous, 1844 to i888.............. 88-I90 First bookstore.............................. 762 First dwelling house......................... 55 First half year............................. 57 First railroad movement...................... 122 First stone dwelling house................... 764 First trader's cabin........................... 47 First white visitors among the Indians......... 24 Five-million-dollar loan...................... 72 Flavoring extracts........................... 504 Flood, a rescue from......................... 65 Flouring mills............................... 424 Forest fires.................................. 137 Foundry business, early...................... 438 Freight facilities............................ 538 Freights in 1844............................. 659 French and British influences...............24, 25 Freshets in Grand River- - 65, 89, 104, I2I, 129, 138, 172, 173 Funeral feast, Indian........................ 34 Furniture and cabinet wares.........:.....46-482 Furniture FactoriesBed Lounges............................ 471 Berkey & Gay Company................. 465 Bissell Carpet Sweeper Co................ 473 Caster Association....................... 473 Clark & Hodges Company................ 470 Converse Company...................... 471 Crockett & Hoppins................... 471 Dressing Case Company.................. 470 Folding Chair and Table Co.............. 472 Gleason Wood Ornament Co.............. 480 Grand Rapids Chair Co................. 477 Grand Rapids Furniture Co............... 469 Haney Manufacturing Co................. 469 Kent Company.......................... 467 McCord & Bradfield Co.................. 472 Nelson, Matter & Co..................... 462 Newaygo Company...................... 470 New England Company.................. 470 'AGE. Oriel Cabinet Company.................. 469 Peninsular Company..................... 472 Phcenix Company....................... 467 Refrigerator Company.................... 471 School Furniture Company.............. 468 Sligh Company.......................... 470 Stow & Davis........................... 470 Strahan & Long Co..................... 480 Universal Tripod Company.............. 472 Valley City Rattan Works............. 479 Valley City Table Co..................... 471 Veneer Works.......................... 472 W. A. Berkey Company................. 468 Waddell Manufacturing Co............... 469 Welch Folding Bed Company............ 471 Widdicomb Company.................... 465 Wolverine Company..................... 479 Worden Company....................... 468 Z. E. Allen Factory...................... 472 Furniture Manufacturers' Association.......... 473 Galvanized iron work........................ 447 G. A. R. State Encampment.................. 40 Gas fitting and plumbing..................... 449 Gas lighting..................... 123, 155, 156, 214 Geology............................ 3-5 General Lee's surrender...................... 126 General Shields visits the city................ 63 General wood work shop...................... 503 German bicentennial celebration............... 138 Gilbert Trust Fund.......................25, 222 Good Templars......................200, 361, 634 Golden weddings........................... 624 Government, State, Departments of........... 82 Government Building........................ 362 Governmental sketch........................8I-84 Governors, Colonial.......................... 81 Governors, State.......................... 83 Governors, Territorial........................ 82 Grade Bench, City........................... 407 Grading through the hills..................... 159 Grand Army of the Republic................. 635 Grand Lodge, I. O. O. F.................. 135, 142 Grand Lodge, S. of I........................ 135 Grand Lodges meet.......................... 134 Grand Rapids, the name..................... I Grand Rapids exhibits at New Orleans......... 139 Grand Rapids and Kent County in the War for the Union............................. 575-599 Companies and regimentsBatteries, B. C and K.................... 597 Battery, Thirteenth...................... 597 First Cavalry............................ 587 Second Cavalry......................... 587 Third Cavalry........................... 588 Fourth Cavalry.......................... 588 Fifth Cavalry............................ 589 Sixth Cavalry............................ 593 Seventh Cavalry........................ 594 Tenth Cavalry........................... 596 Eleventh Cavalry........................ 597 Lincoln Cavalry......................... 597 Engineers and Mechanics................. 586 First Infantry........................... 577 Third Infantry.......................... 577 Fifth Infantry........................... 584 Eighth Infantry......................... 584 Thirteenth Infantry...................... 584 GENERAL INDEX OF TOPICS. 847 PAGE. Fourteenth Infantry...................... 584 Twenty-first Infantry.................... 585 Twenty-fifth Infantry.................... 585 Twenty-sixth Infantry.................... 585 Colored Infantry......................... 597 Sharp Shooters...........................597 Grand Rapids Township proceedings, early.... 85-86 Grand Rapids volunteers for the war........... 600 Grand River Bend........................... 8 Grand River Valley, early routes to............. 77 Grand River Valley in I837................... 76 Gravel and felt roofs......................... 502 Gravel houses............................... 766 G ravel roads.............................. 542-543 Grease refinery.............................. 504 Grocers' State Convention.................... 140 Guild Family, the......................... 58 Guild Joel, anecdote of..................... 58 G unsm ithing................................ 448 Gypsum mining and manufacture.......... 417-423 Hack and omnibus line....................... 564 Halls and Assembly Rooms - Arbeiter................................ 568 A rm ory................................. 568 Collins (Empire)........................ 567 Commercial Block....................... 566 C oncert................................. 567 Faneuil................................ 567 G erm ania................................ 568 H artm an's.............................. 568 Irving.................................. 567 L eppig................................. 568 Lincoln................................. 568 Lovett Block............................ 568 L uce's.................................. 567 M etropolitan............................ 568 N ational H otel........................... 567 O dd Fellows............................. 568 Rathbun House.......................... 567 Science................................ 570 Sons of Temperance..................... 567 Union School House, West Side........... 568 Yellow W arehouse....................... 566 Halls, theaters and dancing.................. 566 Hard times in Montcalm..................... 123 " Hard W inter"........................74, 91, i75 Health, Board of............................ 697 Heat and drouth, excessive................... 135 Heavy wind storm........................... I31 Heavy rains and deep snows.................. I37 H eptasophs................................. 633 Hibernians, A. O. of.......................... 634 High School, Central......................... 230 High school, first............................ 222 High School, Union.......................... 232 High water in winter......................... 39 H ighways, early.............................. 523 Hilton and the Indian........................ Io8 Holland Colony anniversary.................. 135 Home for the Aged........................... 355 Home for Fallen Women, the Emerson........ 360 Home, St. M ark's.......................354, 696 Home, U. B. A..........................352, 595 Home and Hospital, Woman's................. 359 H om eopathy................................ 717 Hook and ladder company.................... 18 H oop skirts................................. 501 PAGE. Horse Associations......................... 5I3 Horse block, John Ball's...................... 72 Horse fair and races, first..................... 129 Horticultural Society, G. R. V................ 508 Horticultural Society, State................... 507 Hose company............................... 82 Hospitals...............................695, 696 H ot day.............................. 23 Hotel, Bridge Street........................ 559 Clarendon............................. 763 E agle.................................. 559 M ichigan................................ 562 The M orton............................. 560 N ational................................ 560 Rathbun................................ 560 Sw eet's................................. 562 W estern................................ 76! Hotel keepers' meeting....................... 138 Hotels and taverns, early and late............. 562 House, first frame..........................55, 56 House, John Ball's........................... 72 Houses, log............................... 76 H umane Society............................ 635 Hydraulic Company.................. 157, 206-208 Hydropathy............................ 729 Ice and fuel.5............................. 504 Ice gorge in the river........................ 128 Immigrants, German......................... 192 Immigrants, Holland......................... 192 Im m igrants, Irish........................... 191 Immigrants, Swedes, Norwegians and Polish... 193 Immigration and nativities................ 191-I93 Important fires, 1844 to i88 8...............I88 90 Improvements and progress............... 641-644 Independence celebrations................. 167-170 Independence Day, joyful.................... 27 Independent Doctors......................... 728 Indian burial grounds........................ 408 Indian Agents............................... 44 Indian Character...........................42, 43 Indian Chiefs............................. 28-30 Indian Domestic Life........................42-44 Indian Funerals............................33-34 Indian Intractability.........................34-36 Indian Justice.............................. 36 Indian Legends.............................40-41 Indian M issions.......................... 27, 49-53 Indian Nam es............................... 30 Indian Payments............................31-32 Indian Population..........................39, 44 Indian Punishments........................37-39 Indian Scholars, anecdote of.................. 35 Indian Social Life........................... 33 Indian Student, the.......................... 36 Indian Trade................................. 32 Indian Trading Posts........................47-48 Indian Treaties.........................26, 30, 31 Indian Villages.............................28-30 Indians at Home............................42-43 Indians of Western Michigan................ 22-44 Institute, Kent Scientific...................... 249 Insurance................................... 66i Internal Revenue office....................... 366 Internal Revenue, i863 to i890, receipts by years. 792 International Conference delegates, visit of..... I42 Inventions................................. 500 Iron bridge, Bridge street..................... I64 848 GENERAL INDEX OF TOI'ICS. P'ACF. Iron bridge, Fulton street..................... 65 Iron store fronts............................. 767 Iron Works, Grand Rapids.................... 439 Iron Works, Michigan........................ 440 Iron W orks, Phoenix......................... 442 Iron W orks, Valley City...................... 439 Iron Works, West Side....................... 439 Irving H all.............................. 28, 756 Islands in River............................. I Jail, Kent County............................ 374 Jail report for a year......................... 375 Joel G uild's letter............................ 57 John Almy's journey......................... 102 John Ball's narrative........................70-78 Journey of an explorer....................... 46 Journey to Michigan, memorandum.......... 54 Journeying in the woods...................... 66 Judges of Probate........................... 741 Junior Old Settlers........................... 147 Justices' Courts.............................. 739 Justices of the Peace, city.................... 401 Kalamazoo plank road....................122, 525 Kent County Abstracts....................... 124 Kent County Agricultural Society............. 50 Kent County Fair Grounds, sale and purchase.. 793 Kent County organized....................... 84 Kent County, Physical geography of........... 11-14 Kent County Villages, dates of incorporation.... 790 Kent County VillageS, population and location.. 790 Kent, name changed to Grand Rapids........85, 87 Kent Scientific Institute...................... 249 Kent soldiers in the field...................... 577 Kent street, effort to extend.................... i6i Kent Township organized.................... 84 Kindergarten...........................225, 244 Knights of the Golden Eagle................... 633 Knights of H onor............................ 633 Knights of the Maccabees..................... 633 Knights Tem plar............................. 629 Labor agitation............................. 140 Labor organizations......................... 639 Laborers lacking work........................ 139 Ladies literary clubs......................... 252 Land Entries, original...................... 19-21 Land looking by John Ball..................... 71 Land plaster and stucco..................... 423 Last Days of Pompeii exhibition.............. 142 Latitude and longitude.................... 2, 406 Lawyers of Kent County...................... 757 Lawyers, Prominent..................... 754, 755 Leather belting and hose..................... 496 Leather manufacture........................ 494 Legislature, Kent county members of.......... 83 Letter carriers start......................... 13 Life, loss of by fire................... 34, i88, 190 Library, Grand Rapids Law..............249, 750 Library, Public School....................246-249 Liquor Dealers, Protective Order of........... 201 Liquor law changes.......................... 202 Liquor licenses in village days............... 199 Liquor tax law.............................. 201 Liquor traffic................................ 202 Literary clubs, ladies......................... 252 I'A( G. Livery barns............................... 563 Local events. I85o to 1889, by years.1....... 2r-142 Locomotive Engineers, 0. of.................. 634 ILog holses.................................. 761 Log running and booming........................ 428 Lost in the woods.....................63, 64, 124 Lots, prices of in I837....................... 71 Lowlands inundated........................ I38 Luce Block................................. 767 Lyceums................................... 251 McCoy, Isaac, Government instructions to..... 50 Machine Company, Fox...................... 442 Machine shops............................ 438-443 Mail carrying service........................ 364 "M aim e law," the........................ 55, I99 Marble workers............................. 489 Marriages, first.........................6I, 62, 85 Marriages in village days..................... 622 Marshals, City.............................393-395 Masonic Bodies.............................. 62() Masonic Home corner-stone.................. 142 Mattress manufacture....................... 481 M ayor's Court............................... 741 Meat markets........................... 665 Mechanics Mutual Protection................. 639 Medical Biographies, Homeopathic.........719-726 Medical Biographies, old school........... 698-7 16 Medical Pioneers............................ 691 Medical societies............................ 694 Medicine and Surgery........................ 6ir M ercantile trade, early....................... 652 M erchants, early............................. 653 Menagerie, first......................... 121 M ichigan banks, early........................ 66 Michigan State, admission of.................. 82 Michigan Territory.......................... 82 M ichigan Trust Co.......................... 688 Military..................................... 57 M ilitary companies, early..................... 571 M ilitary organizations, local.................. 574 M illin ery.................................. 485 M ission reserve, map of...................... 53 Missions, Indian........................ 27, 49-53 Monroe street paved........................ 156 Monroe street straightening................... i6o Municipal annals.......................... I54-66 Murder of Harriet Belden.................... 127 Murder of II. M. Iowers.................... 14I Murder trial, first........................91, 753 M useum, the................................ 250 Music, vocal and instrumental............... 257 M uskegon, a trip to.......................... 72 Narrative by John Ball................. 70-78 National Bank System........................ 668 National Government Centennial............ I42 N ational U nion.............................. 634 Navigation................................. 515 New Orleans Exposition IFund................ 138 Newaygo Railroad completed................. 130 New England Society...................... 637 Newspaper epitaphs..................... 270-272 Newspaper, first............................ 260 Newspapers — T im es................................... 267 E agle..............................'262, 263 GENERAL INDEX OF TOPICS. 849 PAGE. Enquirer............................26I, 262 Enquirer and Herald..................... 263 Evening Leader......................... 267 Grand River Times...................... 260 H erald................................ 262 Morning Democrat...................... 263 Morning Telegram................... 267 Sunday Morning Eagle................. 264 Telegram-Herald........................ 267 Newspapers, weekly and other............. 268-270 Night watchman, first....................... 179 Northwest Territory......................... 81 N urseries................................... 505 Odd Fellows, I. O. of........................ 630 Officers, State, from (rand Rapids and vicinity. 83 O il refinery................................. 501 Old Iland fire engine....................... I82 Old National Hotel.......................... 762 Old Residents Association.................. 43-I47 Old Residents Association, membership..... 145-I47 Old Settlers Society........................... 143 Old Settlers, Junior.......................... 147 Old Yellow Warehouse....................... 76I O kem os, death of............................ 30 Opera House, Powers'........................ 568 Opera House, Redmond's.................... 569 Opera House, Smith's......................... 569 Opera House, Squier's....................... 568 Orders, societies and clubs................629-640 Osborne, N. H., adventure of in the woods..... 46 Ottawa Indians......................... 22, 40, 41 Ottawa Indians, legend of................... 40-4I ()uashtenong River.......................... 8 O-wash-ta-nong B3oat Club.................... 637 Pail and tub works........................... 498 Painting, art................................. 256 Painting and decorating...................... 487 P anic of 1837................................ 78 Panic of 1873............................... I\3I Parks in the city......................... 405-407 Parnell Relief Fund......................... 139 Pat and his pig.............................. 584 Pedestrian contest........................... 137 Peninsular Club.........................137, 636 Pension agents.............................. 366 Phonograph................................ I35 Photography............................... 254 Physicians, City............................. 698 I'hysicians, Eclectic School................... 716 Physicians, Old School....................... 698 Physicians Physio-Medical................... 716 Plank roads................................. 525 Plaster mills..............................417-418 Ilate glass fronts......................... 768 Piano m anufacture.......................... 259 Pine lumbering............................. 427 Pioneer cluster...................... 5..... 59, 60 Pioneer colony............................. 54 Pioneer grist-mill destroyed.................. 136 Pioneer journey............................54, 55 Pioneer settlement.........................54-62 'ioneers of first five years..................59, 60 Poem on Death, by Everett................... 624 Police and Fire Commissioners, Board of... 79, I82 P olice C ourt................................ 744 PAGE. Police Department...................... 179, i8o Police patrol boxes........................... i8o Police Relief Association..................... i8o Polish Aid Hall dedicated..................... I41 Political parties and elections.............. 94-198 Pom ological fair............................. 139 Pomological Society, State.................... 507 Pontiac, conspiracy of........................ 25 Pontiac, murder of.......................... 26 Pope Leo celebration......................... 140 Population, City, County and State, at each census to I890............................. 789 Population of Kent county villages............ 790 Population by nativities...................... 789 Population by sex............................ 789 Population of townships in Kent county, five censuses.................................. 790 Pork, a shoulder load........................ 65 Portable houses.............................. 500 Port of delivery........................... 52I Post, John, death of......................74, 92 Postoffice......................... 362-366 Postm asters............................... 362 'otawatomies, the........................... 22 P ottery................................... 490 Pound Master, early........................86-87 Poultry Association.......................... 514 Prairie Indians, the.......................... 23 Press Club............................. 268 Press of Grand Rapids...................... 260 Prices in 1836............................... 04 Printing business......................... 273 Printing machines........................... 275 Probate Court............................. 740 Probate, Judges of........................... 741 Probate, Registers of......................... 741 Prominent buildings...................... 40, 768 'rominent Lawyers..................... 754, 755 Prosecuting Attorneys........................ 737 Prospect hill................................ 56 Publications and authors..................275-277 Public lands, early sales of.................. 74-75 Public library opened........................ I31 Public schools, early........................ 219 Public Square surveyed..................... 154 Public Square, purchase of Campau claim..... 155 Public W orks, Board of.................... 403 Railroad bonds, G. R. & I.................. I60 Railroad bridge, first........................ 123 Railroad bridge, G. R. & I................. 128 Railroad car shops......................... 448 Railroad Center, map...................... 4 Railroad freights............................ 659 Railroad, G. R. V........................... I60 Railroad loan voted........................ 159 Railroad movement, first..................... 122 Railroad openings.................... 29, 130, 131 Railroad Points............................. 3 Railroad train, first......................... 123 Railroad train, first G. R. & I................. 128 Railroads, what they have done............... 537 Railway Conductors, O. of.................... 634 Railway, C. & W. M......................... 536 Railway, D., G. H. & M................... 528 Railway, G. R. & I.......................... 530 Railway, G. R., L. & D.................. 536 Railway, G. R. V............................ 535 850 (8,GENERAL INDEX OF TOPICS. PA(;E. Railway, L. S. & M. S............... 529 Railway mileage, fifty years................. 538 Railway Telegraphers, O. of............ 634 Railways, early................... 525 Rainfall for seven years..................... 173 Raising troops............................ 576 Real estate dealers....................... 648 Real estate, some specimen prices.............. 645 Recorders, City......................393, 394, 741 Recreations, early........................... 74 Red Men, I. 0. of....................... 633 Red ribbon movement....................... 202 Reeds Lake boats........................... 522 Registers of Probate........................ 741 Relief for Ohio flood sufferers.................. I38 Relief for sufferers in Germany............. 137 Relief for yellow fever victims............... I35 Reminiscences, early......................63-68 Rescue from the flood...................... 65 Review and Equalization, Board of......... 404 River appropriation..................... 73 River and harbor appropriations.............. 517 River bridge, first......................... 92 River dam rebuilt........................ 127 River freshets... 65, 89, 104, I21, 129, 138, 172, 173, River steamers since 1836.................518-520 River survey, report on...................... 517 Rix Robinson Monument unveiled.......... I40 " Rochester of Michigan,"....................69 Royal Arcanum........................ 633 Royal Templars of Temperance............ 635 St. Mark's Home and Hospital.......... 354, 696 St. John's Orphan Asylum.............. 355 Saddle, harness and trunk making.......... 496 Saddlebag Swamp crossing................ 134 Saenger Hall Festival........................ 137 Saladin Temple.............................. 630 Salaries of city officers.................... 152 Saleratus.......................... 491 Salt making begun....................... 91 Salt wells and works.................... 414-416 Salvation Army......................... 344 Sanitation.................................. 692 Sash, doors and blinds...................... 429 Saw mills, early.........................78, 425 Saw mills, steam.................. 426 Saw works......................... 50I Scarcity of provision................... 667 School Alumni societies.................. 250 School Athletic club...................... 251 School Board, Presidents of................. 228 School buildings............................ 230 School district, first.......................... 86 School exhibition in 1838................. 566 School fraternities.......................... 25 School grading.......................... 221 School growth................... 229 School, industrial............................ 227 School Inspectors..........................237 School library............................ 46-249 School studies............................229-230 School taxes, by wards...................791-792 School Teachers' Associations............ 238 School, training............................. 226 School Trustee, first woman elected.......... 228 School, ungraded............................ 226 School, writing............................. 241 PAG:. Schools, Coldbrook....................... 224 Schools, early............................... 219 Schools, early select........................ 240 Schools, exhibit at New Orleans.............. 226 Schools, free............................. 225 Schools, night............................... 226 Schools, Public, I889 -Center Street........................... 235 Coit Avenue...................... 235 East Bridge Street....................237 East Leonard Street................. 235 Fountain Street.......................... 233 Grandville Avenue................... 234 Henry Street.......................... 235 Jefferson Street.........................234 Madison Avenue..................... 237 North Division Street.................. 232 North Ionia Street..................... 234 Pine Street............................ 235 Plainfield Avenue.................... 236 Seventh Street.......................... 237 South Division Street.................. 232 South Ionia Street.................... 237 Straight Street.................... 237 Turner Street....................... 236 Turner and Wiest Leonard Street....... 234 Wealthy Avenue........................ 234 Schools, West Side........................ 223 Scottish Rite, Ancient Accepted............. 630 Social life among the pioneers................. 565 Second hand furniture trade.............. 482 Sewerage...............................12, 213 Sewer drainage fees..................... I58 Sewer drainage, report on.................... 64 Shingle machines........................ 443 Shingle mill machinery......................443 ' Shin plasters," merchants'..............90, 670 " Shin-plasters," village.................. 95, 670 Show cases................... 501 Shirts and underwear........................ 486 Sidewalks, cement, ordered....'.............. I59 Sidewalks, first ordered..................... 96 Silver change appears....................... 133 Silver dollars, new.................I..... 135 Skating park, first artificial................. 128 Smith, A. H., his journey in................. I03 Snow io6 days........................... I77 Snowy winter.............................. 135 Soap and candles.......................... 491 Social, literary and aid societies............... 635 Soil and products.......................... 8 Soldiers' Aid Society............... 26, 127 Soldiers camped in the city............ 1... I25 -Soldiers' fair............................... 126 Soldiers' Home............................ 366 Soldiers' Monument Association............... I26 Soldiers' Monument................ 139, 407 Soldiers' and Sailors' reunion............ 131-133 Soldiery since the war..................... 572 Sons of Malta....................... 124, 663 Sons of Temperance......................... I99 SonS of Veterans.....................39, 573, 635 Special casting............................. 449 Specie payment resumption.................. 135 Speculations..........................6o, 78 Spices and condiments..................... 504 Spiritualists................................ 345 Sporting societies.......................... 638 Springs and water courses.................... GENERAL INDEX OF TOPICS. 851 PAGE. Stage running, days of.................. 524, 525 Standard city time............... 164 State Agricultural Society.................. 506 State Horse Fair.......................... 134 State Salt Well, strata....................... 5 State Taxes, by wards................791, 792 State Telephone Exchange.................. 136 State T roops............................... 574 State Troops Encampment................ 134 Statistics................................. 789 Stave W orks.............................. 497 Steamboat, first........................ 73 Steamboat engine, first made........... 92 Steamboat explosion................... 122 Steamboat Michigan launched............... I22 Steamer Alpena disaster................... 136 Steam saw-mill. first...................... 122 Steel wire nails...................... 450 Stone cutting............................ 490 Stone houses........................... 765, 766 Stone school house, first................ 220 Storm s and gales............................ I73 Street grading.......................... 550 Street names, changes of.............. 557 Street names, derivation of.................... 556 Street names and locations....5........552-556 Street numbering...................... 551 Street cars started........................... 59 Street paving..........................23 551 Street railway, first movement.............1.26 Street and Cable Railway................. 65, 66 Street Railway Company................. 540 Street railway franchise granted............. 58 Street railway movements in 890............. 793 Street Railway, North Park.................. 541 Street reservoirs...................... I6i Street, Sewer and Water Works expensestwelve years.............................. 792 Street sidewalks...................... 552 Streets, number and length............... 550 Superior Court......................... 742 Supreme Court.............................. 729 Supervisors, by towns and'wards...........386-390 Surgery, Dental........................... 727 Surprise party to Mrs. Burton............... I40 Surveyors, City......................... 403 Surveyors, County.......................... 386 Sweet's Hotel block....................... 124 Swine ordinance........................... 157 PAGE. Thanksgiving gifts to the poor................ 139 Theater, Lyceum (Wonderland).............. 570 Theological Seminary (Holland)............... 360 Thomas Mission, the..................... 50-5I Three wild bears killed...................... 124 Thunder Bay Island.................... 260 Thunder storm, terrific.................... 134 Tin and sheet iron work...................... 444 Topography............................ 6 Tower clock block begun.................. 133 Tower clock lighted......................... 63 Town officers, Grand Rapids, from settlement to 1850................................. 87 Town officers, Walker................ 88 Townships of Kent county-population at five censuses............................. 790 Trade summary.......................... 660 Trading Posts, Indian...................... 47-48 Trains to Traverse City...................... 130 Travel, early modes of....................... 77 Treasurers, City........................393-395 Treasurers, County......................... 385 Treaties, Indian........................26, 30, 3I Tree association.......................... 125' Two bridges finished........................ 24 Undertakers................................. Unfortunate cow............................. United States Court.......................... United Workingmen, A. O of............... Union Benevolent Association.............352, Union fair exposition................... Union High School........................ Union school house, stone.................... Union school organization................ Upholstering........................ 4"I 64 746 639 695 130 232 94 223 480 Valley City Guards........................ 575 Valuations as assessed, by wards, 1872 to 1890............................... 79, 79I Veneer goods............................... 481 Vermont Society............................ 135 Veteran soldiers' reunions.................... 39 Village in 1842.....................90-9 Village of Grand Rapids....................89-97 "Village of Kent,"......................... 84 Village legislation, 1838 to 1850.............. 94-97 Village officers, 1838 to I850................. 97 Village roads and city streets............548-558 Village sketches. by Frank Little............89, 92 Village and Valley in I846................. 79 Villages and chiefs, Indian...................28-30 Villages of Kent county............... 790 Visitors, early............................... 60 Viszoczky, an adventure of.................. 68 Votes, city and county, total in certain years... 198 Votes for Governor, city and county.......... 97 Votes for President, city and county.......... 197 Votes in the State by parties, thirteen years.... 198 Tailoring............................ Tanner Taylor's addition, resolution concerning. Tavern accommodations.................... Tavern license.............................. Taverns, early.............................. Taverns, first two............................ Taxation, by wards, for a series of years...791, Telegraph message, first.................. Telegraph, G. R. & I........................ Telegraph, Postal and United lines........... Telegraph, Western Union.................. Telephone, the............................. Telephone Exchange....................... Telephone for fire service................... Temperance crusade...................... Temperance movements..................... Temperance societies, early................. Territory, under French and English rule... 484 I64 72 86 559 73 792 123 217 217 216 218 135 I63 13I 200 199 8i Wabasis, tragic death of..................... Wagon Factory, Arthur Wood................ Wagon Factory, G. C and J. 0. Fitch......... Wagon Factory, Harrison.................... Wagon Factory, Heinzelmann and others...... Wagon making, early......................... 30 455 452 453 455 451 852 GENERAL INDEX OF TOPICS. I'A(;R. Wagon shops, several of them................ 458 W agons, anchor-circle........................ 457 Wagons and Sleighs, Belknap................ 455 Walker Township incorporated............... 84 Walker Township organized................ 87 W ar bounty bonds...................... 25 War commissions, Kent County officers..... 602-613 W ar, enlistments for the.................... 125 W ar of the Rebellion........................ 575 Wards, number of increased............. 161 W atches and jewelry......................... 486 Water gas franchise granted................. 166 Water miain across the river.................. 162 Water main burst........................... 136 Water Power Company....................... 643 Water power, east side.................. 642 W ater power, west side..................... 642 W ater reservoir built......................... 162 W ater supply........................ 206-213, 693 Water Works bonds......................^... 162 Water works system adopted....6......... 16 W eddings, golden........................... 624 W ells, artesian...........................211-212 Wheat raising in the city...................... 25 Wheat speculation collapse................... 136 W heelbarrows............................. 458 P'A GE. Whisky, story of a trade in................. 46, 47 W hite Man, advent of the.................... 45-53 Wholesalers, recent..................656, 657, 658 Wholesaling, beginnings of................... 655 Wild animals, about...................... 64 Wild bear killed in the city................... 122 "W ildcat" banks....................... g90, 671 W ind gale.............................. 133 Wines and liquors, traffic in.............. 204 W ire works.......................4...... 450 Wolf bounties authorized.................... 86 Wolf in hen-house......................... 64 Woman's Christian Temperance Union........ 357 Woman's Home and. Hospital............... 359 W ood pavement, first....................... 162 Wood working machinery.................... 450 Wooden. pumps..................... 501 Wooden shoes............................... 499 'Woodman, spare that tree"................ lo Woolen manufacture....4......... 483 W oolen mills burned.....................28, 131 Workingmen's meeting......................' 141 Yacht launch.......................... 138 Yellow warehouse....................... 566 Young Men's Christian Association...........356 LOWELL.~~~~~~ PERSONAL INDEX. Adams, 0. 0., 802 Aldrich, H1. B., 8so Alger, F. C., 8io Alger & Church, 8ii Althen, Charles, 803, 8Io Avery, Abel, 799, 8o3 Avery, E. WV., 803 Avery & Johnson, 8o8 Babcock, Deacon, 804 Babcock, Mrs. Mary j.,8o4 Balcom, J. 13., 8oo Ball, John, 798 Ballard, James, 804 IBarber, M. C., 803 Beard, Caroline, 798, 805 Behler, A. F., 8oi IBennett, C. L., Soo IBennett, I. N., 804 iBenning, Joseph, 8o5 Bergin, C., 8io Bigelow, Mr. and Mrs., 804 TBirdsall, T. B., 8io Blaisdell, WV. R. & Co., 8io Blain, John, 8o5 131ain, N. B., 8o8, — io Blake, A. B., 8oo IBlake, C. A., 803 Blakeslee, C. L., 8oi Blanding, Ruby, 8o6 Blass, Charles, 8oo, 803 Blodgett, M. R., 803, 8io Booth, E. J., 8oo, 8o6 IBooth, H. WV., 8o0,80i,803 Bostwick,. R. G., Soo Bosworth, H. J. & Son, 8io Bowne, A. J., 8o6 lBradfield, S. C., 803 Brannan, James. 8oo Brannan, John, 8oo IBroad, Charles, 804 Broadbent, J. W., 8io Brooks, W. F., Sio lBrown, Allen, 8o5 Brown, George, 798 lBrown & Sehler, 8io IBrowver, Mrs. Dr., 804 BroN%,er, Sylvester, 800,803 Burroughs, J. C., 8o6 Bush, S. A., 8io Bush, Susan A., 8o5 Busser, S. E., 804 Cahoon, G. H., 8oi Calkins, D. W., Soo Calkins, John, 803 Carter, C. B., 8o i Carter, Cornelius, 805 Carter, Ella Calista, 799 Chapin, Helen, 8o5 Chapin, J. E., 8oo, 8o6 Chapin, J. 0., 8o8 Chapin & Hatch, 809 Chapman, J., 803 Chapman, Jacob, 8o5 Chapman, XV. M., Soi Chase, E. E., 809 Chatterdon, W. D., 8oi Church, C. A., 8o8 Church, C J. & Son-, So6, 8o8 Church, I). M., Soo Church, E. E., 8oo Church, Henry, 8oo Clark B~rothers, 8io Clark, C. A., 8io Clark, C. E., 8io Clark, Cyrus, 8o5 Clark. H. F., 8io Clark, Mrs Thankful, 804 Clark & Winegar, Sio Coats, 0. M., 8oo Cob-mo-sa Chief, 798 Cogswell, Seth, 8o8 Collar, E. R., 8o6, 8io Combs, R. E., 8o6 Cook, Samuel, 807 Coons, A. L., 8io Craw, E. R., 803, 809 Crumley, James, 8o5 Curtiss, HH. L., 8oi Curtiss, S. P., Soi Danes, Ira A., 798, 8oo Daniels, J. B., 798 Daniels, T'. I., 798. 807 Daniels, Thomas, 8oo Davis, G. WV., Soo Davis, L. W, 807 Denise, D. H., 8oo, 8oi IDenny, E. F., 8io Devendorf, C. M., 8oo, 803 Dougall, J. 5., 8oj Driscoll, Daniel, 803 Eaton, D. L., 804 Eddy, F. D., 797, 8oo, 8o6, 8Mn Edie, WXilliam, 8oo Edmonds, J. 5., 804 Edrnonds, S. F., 8oo Ellinwood, 'J. D., 8oi Elliott, C H., 807 Elsworth, A. M., 803, 81o Fisher, A. & Co., 8io Fisher, A. D., 804 Fitch, J. 0, 809 Flanagan, J. M., 8o5 Flanagan, R. J., 8o8 Flanagan & Peckham, 8o8 Flannery, Ti D., 805 Francisco, Jacob, 798 Fuller, E. B., 8io Fuller, J. M., 805 Fuller, 0. B, 8oo Gallup, James, 804 Giles, John, 8o,5 Giles, John & Co., 8io Gillett, John, 8o5 Goodman, Stephen, 8o5 Goossens, Bernard, 8o5 Gordon, Charles, 799, 8oo Gould, H. L., 8oo Graham, Catherine, 799 Graham, Joseph, 8oo, 8oi Graham, R. W., Soo, 803, 8o6 Graham, Mrs. William, 799 Graham, W. H., 8oo Green, C. S., 8oo Greene, M. C., 8io Griggs, L. 5., 804 Griswold, M. C., 8o6 Halpen, Peter, 807 Hammond, the Rev., 804 Hare, J. C., 8o8 Hare & Kisor, 809 Hartt, John, 8o5 Hatch & Craw, 809 Hatch, W. W., 803, 8o6, 809, 8 io Headworth, Mate, 8o6 Headworth, Matie E., 8oi Hemingway. the Rev., 804 Hendrix, A. R., 807 Hicks, S. P., 8oi, 8o8, 8io, 8ms Hill, C. 0., Soo, 8oi, 8o6 Hill, Orton, 8o8 Hilton Bros. & Co., 8o8, 8IO!-ine, C. R., 8oi, 803 Hine, F. B., 8oo, 8oi Hine, J. W., 803, 807 Hine, M. N., 803, 8o5, 8o6, 8o8 Hoag, A. R., 809 Hodges, C. D., 8oo, 807 Hodges, Sylvester, 798 Hogan, H. E., 8oo Hogle, E. Y., 8io Hooker, C. 5., 799, Soo, 803, 8o5, 807, 809, Sui Hooker, J. S., 8oo Hornbrook, Peter, 799 Hosford, F. H., 8oi Houghton, A. S., 8oi Howk, A. J., 8oo, 803 Howk. A. J. & Son, 8io Hudson, J. L., 8io Higgins. John, 8oo, 803 Hunt, Cyrus, 8oo, 803 Hunt, IL. H., 812 Hunt, Simeon, Soo, 803 Hunt & H-unter, 8io Hunter, E B., 8io Huinter, Robert, Soo, 803 Hunter, Robert, Jr., 8oo 8oi, 803, 8o5 Husted, J. T., 804 Husted, N. P., 797 Huxley, E. R., 803 Jackson, Albert, 8io, Si-i Johnson, A. B., 803 Johnson, Andy, 8io Johnson. Chandler, 803 Johnson. G. J., 809 Jones, Alva, 798 Jones, F. 5., 807 Jones, Mrs. Mina, 8o6 Jones, N. A, Soo Jones & Lyon, 807 Kelley, Pa-trick, Sio Ke - wi - quash - cum (Long Nose), Chief, 798 King, A. H., 8oo, 803, 807 King, Francis, 803, 8o6, 8io King, Frank, 8oi King, F. T., 809, Sio 854 854 ~~~~LOWVELL-PERSONAL INDEX. King, Quick & King, 805, 8io Kinyon, Joseph, 8oo, 8oi Kisor, C E., 809 Kopf Brothers, 809, 8io Kopf, Goodrich, 809 Kopf, John, 8o8, 8ii Kopf, Hill & Trask, 8o8 Laframboise, Madame, 798 Lampman, Henry, 8oi Lane, Ann, 807 Lane, G. W., 803 Larzelere, C. S., 8o6 Lawrence. J. S., 8o6 Lawyer;- Charles, 807 Lee, A. F., 8o6 Lee, Edmund, 803 Lee, J. E., 8 io Lee, Peter, 803 LeClear, Daniel, Soi Leslie, C. H, 8oo, 8oi Lincoln, Luther, 798, 799 Lockwood, Rosa I, 8o6 Look, D. G., 8oo Look, J. Q., 797, 8o3, 8o6 Lull, L. B., 803 Lusk, Jeremiah, 8oi Luther, A. T., Soc Lyon, Emily, 802 Lyon, James, 802 Lyon, Mary, 802 Lyon, Matilda, 802 Lyon, Morgan, Soi, 802 Lyon, Thomas, 8oi McCarty, Bertha A., 804 McCarty, Bessie M., 804 McCarty, Charles, 797, 803, 804, 809 McCarty, Dean, 804 McCarty, Leon J., 804 McCarty, P. S., 804 McCarty, Willie, 804 McCoy, L., 8io McDannell, O.C., 800,803, 8o6, 8io McEwen, Daniel, 8oo McKee, Joseph, 807 McLean, Alex., 809 McLean, Mrs. Jane, 809 McNaughton, John, 8io McPherson, James, 8io McQueen, Ed., Sii McVean, C. F., 802 McVean, David, 802 McVean, David E., 802 McVean, D. C., 802 McVean, Mrs. D. C., 802 McVean, D. H., 802 Mc'Vean, D. S., 802 McVean, Miss L. A., 802 McVean, Maggie L., 802 McVean, Mary D., 802 Mann, J. W., 8o6 Marsac, Daniel, 798, 799, 802, 8o6 Marsh, S. D., 8o6 Marshall, Robert, 803, 8io Martin, John, 804 Mason, W. R., 807 Mathewson, J. M., 797, 803, 8io, 8ii Medler, W. J.., 803 Merriman, C. G., Soo Merriman; J., 8oo Merriman, L. H., 8oi Misner, Daniel, 807 Misner, W. H., 807 Mitchell, Henry, 8oo, 803 Monk, George, 799 Montague, W. H., 799, 8oo More, J. E., 807 Morgan, A. C., 8oo Morris, Webster, 8oo, 807 Morris & Hine, 807 Morrice, Lillian, 8o6 Morse, Benjamin, 8oo Mueller, J. C. T., Soo Murphy, NA H., Soi Nash, Harmon, 8oo, Sio Nelson, Theodore, 807 Newton, Charles, 798 Norton, M. H., 8c6 O'Harrow, Edson, 8oo Oliver, A. D., 8io Page, Caleb, 798, 8o5 Palmeter, Philander, Soo Parker, E. D., 807 Patrick, Matthew, 798 Pearsoll, William, 805 Peck, Arvine, 803 Peckham, A. H., 8o8 Perry, C. R., Si i Perry, Grace I, i i Perry, Kate S., 8o6, 8 ii Perry, M. Agnes, Sri Perry, M. M., 797,800, 803, 81o Perry, Martha S., 8ii Perry, Mary (Weeks),.8ii Perry, W. R., 8oo, Srii Post, Audie E.,79 Post, John, 804 Post, L. J., 797, 799, Sor Post, Mrs. L. J.,79 Post, Wilber E.,79 Post, Zeno K., 799 Poulin, N. N., 8o5 Proctor, Henry, 799 Proctor, Sarah, 799 Proctor, William, 797 79 Proctor, Mrs. William, 79 Proctor, William, Jr. 799 Pullen, William, 803, 8io Purple. Louisa, 802 Purple, Mary, 802 Quick, Charles, 807 Quick, Reuben, 8io Ranney, Mabel, 8o6 Ransford, A. B., 8oo Ransford, A. D., 803 Rattigan, Martin, 807 Rice, H. A., 8ot5 Richards. Arba, 8o6, 8ii Rickert, W. B., 8io Robertson & Son, 8io Robinson, Clarinda, 805, 8ii Robinson, Frank & Co., 8 io Robinson, Hiram, 807 Robinson, Lewis, 798 Robinson, Lucas, 798 Robinson, 0. A., 8 io Robinson, Rix, 798 Robinson, Rodney, 798, 803, 8 II Roche, C. J., 8o5 Rolf, S. P., 798, Soo Rose, W.,~F., 804 Rouse, G. W., 8io Ruben, Marks, Sio Savage, James, 8o5 Sanson, J. G., 805 Sayles, Alice, 804 Sayles, C. C., 804 Sayles, C. W., 803 Schnitt, John, 805 Schneider, G. W., Soo Schreiner, Henry. 8io Scott. J. C., 803, 8 ro, S Ii Severy, Daniel, 8o5 Severy, Myron, 8oo Shaw, Edwinnie, 8o6 Shear, J. B., 803 Sbepard, Mrs. Harriet, 804 Shepard, Horace, 8o5 Sherman, Harry, 8io Sinclair, Daniel, Sri Sinclair, Jane (Proudfit), 8ii Sinclair, Leonora, 8ri Skidmore, Lucy. 802 Slayton, T. J, 8oo, 8 I Smith, Daisy, 8o6 Snell, Jacob, Soo Sprague, J. B., 803' Stannard, A. S., 8o6 Stiff & Stiff, 8og Stiles, E. R., 804 Stocking, F. D.. 8o5, SI I Stocking, Mrs. F. D., 797 Stocking, R. ID., 8io Stone, C. G., 803, 8 II Stone, C. G. & Son, Sio Stone, H. N., 8i I Stoughton, Mrs., 804 Stryker, Daniel, 8o6 Sunderlin, E. A, 803, 8o6 Sweet, E. F., 807 Talford, W. D.. 809 Talfbrd & Chapin, 809 Tarleton, T. D., 8o8 Taylor, John, 8o5 Taft, F. 0., 8oi Taylor, Samuel, 807 Thomas, J. S., 8o5 Tracy, Philander, 798, 803 Train, J. C., 803, 807, 8II Trask, H. M., 8o8 Trumbull, Myrtie, 8o6 Tyler, N. W., Soo Upham, H.. -B., 8oo Upham, G. R., 8oo Van Deusen, William, 798 Van Wagner, J. M., 804 Waldo, L. F., 804 Walker, M. C., Soo. Waterman, A. B., 807 Weekes, A. W., Soo, 803 Weeks, J. H., Soo, 803 White, George, 803 White, Frank, 8oo White, G. K., Soo White, I. N., 803 White, Timothy, 8oo, 8o6 White, F. N., 8o0 Wickham, Harrison, 799 Wickham & Richards, 803 Wilhelm, George, 8o5 Williams, U. B., 803 Wilson, B. G., 8o5, 8Io Wilson, Gardner & Co., 8og Wilson, John, 803 Wilson, Joseph, Soo, 8o5 Winegar, F. W., 8oi Winegar, R. D., 8o5 Winegar, WV. S., 8oo, 8io Wingler, John, 803 Winslow, Maria, 8o5 Wisner Brothers, 809 Wisner, C. W., 809 Wisner, E. E., 8oo, 809 Wooding, C. T., 8oo, 803 8o6 Yeiter, J. B., 8o5 Yeiter, J. D., 8oo Yeiter, John, 8oi Yeiter & Look, 8ro Yerkes, Anthony, 8o~ Young, Irvin, 8io Young J. L. W., 8io LOWELL GENERAIL INDEX. IAGE. Agriculture................................. 80o IAGE. Lowell Furniture Company................... Lowell M ill (flouring)........................ 809 Manufactures................................ 808 B akery..................................... Banking................... Baptist Church............................. Biography, Chatles McCarty..............803, Biography, I). C. McVean.................... Biography, L. J. Post........................ Biography, Morgan Lyon.,,..........80oi, Biography, NWm. Proctor..................... Biographies, brief...................... Central School........................... Church Societies............................. Cigar factory............................... Cooper shop............................... Congregational Church....................... Creamery Company.......................... Cutter Factory............................ 809 806 805 804 802 799 802 799 8io 805 804 809 8Io 804 '8o8 8o08 M arble XVorks........................... M echanics.................................. Methodist Episcopal Church............. 804, 808 8io 805 Newspapers................................. 807 Organization of township.................... 800 Officers of township........................ 800 Pioneer settlers.................. 798, Population by towns......................... Prefatory remarks............................ Professions............................. 799 8o0 797 8Io Early Schools............................... 805 Farms and crops............................. First apple trees............................. Flat R iver................................. First mill (flouring).......................... Fruit culture................................ 8oi 798 797 809 80I River Valley............................... 797 Roman Catholic Church................... 805 Saw mill, steam........................... 8io Settlem ent.................................. 798 Situation and Topography.................... 797 Soil, quality of............................. 798 Steam flouring mill.......................... 809 Grand River................................ 798 Hotels..................8..... 80 6, 807 Indian occupants.................. 798 Indian traders......................... 798 Kopf Brothers' Factory.................... 809 Lakes or ponds.................. 797 Lighting............................ 808 T im ber................................ 797, Town officers................................ Township district schools..................... Traders, mercantile.......................... Village School Board....................... Village, first platting......................... Village incorporated......................... Village officers.............................. 798 8o0 806 8io 806 802 803 803 Water works................................ 807 W oolen m ills............................... 8io ,"B~~~~~~~a*~~~~:Wu tl1 pq 1,1 IT T 1 ~A," 14", 1. V%4 I I il I " t q r\ 41.,,,I,, IT I k" i I,i,.,~ 1, I" 1 ~1i4a1 k N,- V W,,~ '" i:b$ae; ' Id B j:6 -1 " -- 1 1 B$np :s ~;~;: ~4 "'1 ir~I-.i:!PI c:. F;a_[" ~~:;: " -- -a ~i a, ~~.,,.:::;.I;r ~"-,, s~B-:::ai c a 7T~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" — ILLB *h ~ I I I I I