Chicago's First Half Century. DAVID K. REIMERS 701 E. CWftfNQ REAL -APT. 4A BOCA RATON/ FLORIDA 33432 The Inter Ocean Publishing Company, Chicago. I uc -jflceklii Sntcr Ocean. ffiltc jpaUn ffintcr ^fKfii&y&Vffft K r -"HOKb jiwSST arou'drttafti* iJ~ / n ^ V^ ^) V\^n s "! "! l l?^?HF! .J^" 1 " ^ I^t^-J _*.WnT rllPllT \ \ WUITt (Til nut , jn>' and which no other city is ever liable to win. There have been established rolling-skating rinks which find patrons in the best ranks of society, and the public parks afford ample scope for the regular ice skating. Chicago, with her two turf clubs and two professional base ball clubs, is fast becoming the home of champions. The bicycle has several world beaters residing here. Base ball has a champion club here. Billiards will have one or more of the big stars in this city. Chicago stands TN JTEONT IN THE SPORTING WORLD at least in two departments, namely, the turf and base ball. In all other matters of sport she has a place near the top, and is always looked upon as a prime factor in any gather- ing of sportsmen. The gun has no city in which there is a greater following than here in Chicago. There are more gun clubs and wealthier ones than in any other city. The best marksmen and trap shots are here, and the last convention showed a better average than any of those held in the East. Thus in this Western metropolis, not only in business, but in sports, does the great energy and progress of Chicago manifest itself. It was here that many now world renowned names were first crowned with victory 32 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. in the world of sports, and it is here that thousands have yet to achieve celebrity and fame. _ A. G. SPAUDEVG & BROTHEKS. THE SPOBTQJQ HEADQUABTEBS. No man has done so much to encourage and stimulate out-door sports in Chicago and the West as Mr. A. G. Spalding, the President and Manager of the Chicago Base Ball Club. To him that club owes its organization and success, and he is the patron saint of the base ball fraternity in the West To him more than to any other man Chicago owes the reputation of its club and the honor of the championship it has carried for so many years. After retiring from the diamond Mr Spalding opened a store for the sale of base ball supplies and other sporting goods, and his emporium at No. 103 Madison street is now the rendezvous and headquarters of the sportsmen of Chicago and the Northwest Here is sold at wholesale or retail every appliance or essential known to the sporting world. Here can be found the largest stock of guns in the West, at the lowest prices, and every article that goes to make up the outfit of a well-equipped huntsman or fisherman. The wheelman can find the most complete stock of bicycles and tricycles, and those who cultivate "the poetry of motion" will be charmed by the assortment of skates for parlor, rink, or pond. In base ball goods the Spaldings are the leaders and recognized authority from Maine to California, and they provide the necesaries for every other sort of out-door game or sport. For business men, clerks, and others whose occupations prevent them from securing a proper amount of healthful exercise they provide "the Home Gymnasium," which can be set up in a parlor, a library, a bed-room, or an office. Sleds and printing presses, magic lanterns, toy telephones and steam engines, dog col- lars, whips and blankets, carving-kniv es, pen- knives and scissors, dumb-bells and Indian clubs, fencing sticks, boxing gloves, and every invention for the health, pleasure, and profit of mankind can be had at the lowest prices. _ EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS THE OLD PEDAGOGUE. HIS FIBST SCHOOL. In education John Watkins claimed to have taken the lead. He claimed that he was the first school-teacher in Chicago. He came West in May, 1832, and in the fall, after the close of the Black Hawk war, opened his first school His school-house was on the North Side, about half way be- tween the lake and the forks of the river. The building was owned by Colonel Richard J. Hamilton, and was erected for a horse stable, and, in fact, had been used as such. It was twelve feet square. The benches and desks were made of old store-boxes. The school was started by private subscription with thirty scholarships. But, as there were not that many children in town then, it was a free school for all who would attend. The first quarter Watkins had twelve scholars, and only four of them white. The others were quarter, half, and three-quarter Indian. After the first term Mr. Watkins said he moved his school into a double log house on the W^an, singing, violin, harmony, com- position, and elocution. Surely a proficiency in all or any number of these might be called a good musical education. Dr. Ziegfeld, the founder of the college in 1867, is entitled to the credit or its success. He has done more than any other man to advance the art and science of music in the West. He is now in the prime of his life and usefulness, and it is the hope of his many friends that he will yet live many years in the enjoyment of health and vigor and to continue his work as a true educator of the people. The good which he has conferred upon his adopted country is incalculable, and although no person now living will witness its entirety, he has the proud satisfaction of having left the impress of his labors, his talents, and his genius upon the culture and progress of a whole people. MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS. THB CONN MANUFACTOBY AT ELKHABT. The success which has attended the efforts of Mr. C. G. Conn, of Elkhart, Ind., in the manufacture of band instruments reads al- most like fiction, so remarkable has been his experience as an inventor and so rapid has been the growth of his businesa Less than seven years ago he placed in the hands of the musical fraternity an invention known as the Elastic Face Mouthpiece, which immedi- ately met with a great demand, and was pronounced by all who used it as a decided improvement over the metal face mouthpiece then in general use. With a sagacity char- acteristic of the American people he foresaw that there was an opportunity for improving band instruments, and in a small shop, em- ploying only three men, he began a series of experiments with a determination to perse- vere until he could manufacture the best band instruments in the world. The first year his efforts met with no favorable results except to convince him that the system of manufacture then employed was not calculated to produce a good instru- ment With this knowledge he invented what is known as the Four-in-one cornet. His next improvement was tne patent clear- bore valve.* Both of these inventions met with ready sale, and were considered great improvements. Not yet satisfied Mr. Conn next patented the conic clear-bore valve in- strument, which the band fraternity de- manded in so large a number a'< to compel him to erect a large factory and increase his facilities for their production. With a desire to improve he continued his experiments, and the next invention in band instruments with which he favored the musical world was the celebrated Ultimatum valve cornet. THIS IMPEOVKMENT is acknowledged as the only perfect instrument ever manufactured, and is used by all of the celebrated artists, in- cluding Jules Levy, the world's favorite; Walter Emerson, the great American soloist; Signer A. Liberati, the phenomenal Italian virtuoso; Henry C. Brown. Boston's favorite; H. N. Hutchins, the popular artist of Chicago; H. Schultz, the great Philadel- phia artist; H. Billstedt, the soloist of Cin- cinnati; Louis F. Boos, the celebrated prize- winner of Michigan, and in fact all the prom- inent musicians of the world, to which Mr. Conn furnishes ample testimony in the pub- lication of a book containing over 3,000 tes- timonials. BtJBNED OUT. On Jan. 31, 1883, his large factory, which employed about one hundred and twenty-five men. was entirely consumed by fire, destroy- ing his entire stock, tools, patterns, and ma- chinery, which had taken him years to per- fect and complete. To many this loss would have been irreparable, but to Mr. Conn it signified only a reverse with which fortune had stricken him, and with characteristic en- ergy he immediately began the rebuilding of his factory, and in less than sixty days was again employing over a hundred men in the construction of band instruments. While the loss of his tools and machinery was seri- ous, and financially considered was a great misfortune to him, he deems that his loss has been a benefit to his patrous, for the rea- son that in replacing his tools he has made many improvements whicQ would have never been otherwise introduced. The new factory now occupied by Mr. Coun is the largest in the world for the manufacture of J>,rst-class band instruments, and is situated upon the Elkhart Hydraulics. The machinery is run by 90- horse water power, and the different floors of the building cover an area space of over 12,000 square feet, and he employs over 130 skilled workmen, many of whom have been Drought from the celebrated workshops of Europe. Each instrument he manufactures is constructed upon the Conic principle and none but the best material employed. J^ach separate part is drawn by the aid of power- ful machinery Jto a perfect mathematical proportion upon steel mandrils, so as to in- sure AS NEAB PEBFECTION AS POSSIBLE. and after each separate part has been fashioned to the desired shape and proportions it is carried to the testing-room, where it ia subjected to a prac- CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 39 tical test in the following manner by a skill- ful and experienced musician: First, a per- fect set of Valves are chosen, and from the different branches and bells are selected the parts that compose the instrument and the parts that blow the freest, easiest, and best in tune are adopted for that particular set of valves. The instrument is then spidered to- gether, and subjected to a hydraulic test by means of a powerful pump, after which the different intervals are compared with the tones of a large organ, and it is then ready for the finishers' department. Among the many ingenious machines used by Mr. Conn is one with which the holes in the valve cases and the valve pistons are drilled, and so accurately is the work done that each part can be duplicated or replaced at any future time. The process of manu- facturing the small bends and crooks is also original. HOW THE INSTRUMENTS AKE POLISHED. After the tubing has been bent to the de- sired shape it is placed in a steel mold, and by a powerful process a steel ball is driven through it so that trie inside of the crook is perfectly polished and free from imperfec- tions. By this new process the entire instru- ment also receives a perfect polish on the inside of the different crooks and bends so that the vibratory current of air will pass through it without restriction. The principal excellence of Mr. Conn's instruments may be attributed, without doubt, to his invention of the conic clear-bore valves which permits a perfect and even temperament of tone throughout the entire register of the instru- ment, each valve tone being precisely similar in quality and volume of tone to the open tones, and as there is positively no stricture in the wind passage, the instrument must blow easier than "when the old system of valves is employed, for it is an incontrovertible fact that when an instrument has not a free open wind passage through the valves it cannot blow easil}-, and there will always be a brassy flare in the tone which is destructive to the pro- duction of pleasing music. The voicing of band instruments in sets is a feature to which Mr. Conn has given a large amount of study and attention, and bands who desire to pro- vide themselves with instruments with which to produce the best musical effects should ap- ply to him for information. Each set of in- struments sent out from his factory is thor- oughly tested and TUNED BY TRUMPET NOTES, so that the ensemble may ba perfect in all keys. Nearly all of Mr. Conn's instru- ments are manufactured for artists and mili- tary bands, both in America and Europe, and BO general has become their use in both coun- tries that scarcely a soloist of any conse- quence will be found without one of them. To all who may request, Mr. Conn will send his instruments for comparison and trial with any others made in the world, pay- ing all charges for transportation himself should they not be found superior in work- manship, durability, ease of blowing, and all points of excellence. Among the im- portant inventions of Mr. Conn, which he manufactures for sale, are the ultimatum solo cornet, the vocal cornet, the combined slide ana valve trombone, the melophone or melody horn, the four-in-one cornet, the perfection cornet, a new invention not yet introduced; the elastic face mouthpiece, the electric face mouthpiece, the adjustable mouthpiece, which can be used for E flat or B flat cornet; theharmonia mute and the com- bination music stand. Mr. Conn has also a largejmusic publishing establishment, and he has just completed a new process for print- ing music, which will undoubtedly, because of its cheapness, revolutionize the publishing of music. ARTISTIC DECORATION. J. B. SULLIVAN & BRO., 266 AND 268 NORTH CLARK STREET. No city in the Union can boast of greater progress in the matter of house decoration than Chicago, and nowhere else can be found more artistic work than that which adorns the palatial homes of this city. The oldest and most famous firm in this line is that of J. B. Sullivan & Brother, 266 and 268 North Clark street, who opened their es- tablishment in 1855, and have been at their present location ever since. They have always taken the lead in decorative art mat- ters, paper-hanging and painting, and their reputation is such that they are called to do the most expensive and elabor- ate work all over the West. What Tiffany is to New York, the Sullivans are to Chicago. Their designers and decorators are the most celebrated in the West, and their work is famous for its origin- ality and artistic merit. The Tabor Opera House, of Denver, known the world over as the finest in America, was decorated by them, as was also the Grand Opera House at Chi cagp, the Grand Opera House at Colorado Springs, and other theaters in the West. The contract for decorating the New Or- leans Cotton Exchange, one of the most mag- nificent trade palaces in the world, was awarded to them, and they have been called to Minneapolis to beautify the new million-dollar hotel there. They decorated the Windsor Hotel at Denver, "The Antlers" at Colorado Springs, and the Palmer House of Chicago. Illustrations of their church worK can be found in the Episcopal Cathedral at Omaha, the Catholic Church at Danville, 111., the Methodist Church at Ottawa, the Congrega- tional Church at Watertown, Wis. , the Unity, New England, and other churches in Chi- cago. The Chicago Club, the Illinois Club, and the new First National Bank Building were decorated by them, and the residences of Samuel W. Allerton, Marvin Hughitt, H. H. Porter, 8. M. Nickerson, Perry H. Smith, Henry W. King, Julian S. Rumsey, Henry Strong, W. E. Strong, and those of many other gentlemen of wealth and artistio las to. CHAPTER IL THE ART PRESERVATIVE. NEWSPAPEB HISTORY. J-EOM THE DEMOCRAT TO THE INTBB OCEAN. It would take up too much, space to give the history in detail of the time when the great city was a village, or to tell even a small part of the incidents illustrative of early life in Chicago. But it was no doubt a happy, contented life the early settlers led, if it was at times tilled with hardships. They were a free and easy people, and were all on a level, without caste in society. When there was a wedding everybody went, and when there was a dance all the boys were there. It would form an interesting group to see these men all of them since prominent in local, State, or National affairs assembled on the floor of the dining-room at the old Sauganash, the Green Tree, or the Western Hotels, marching through the Virginia reel, or wnirling through a waltz. There would De the stalwart form of Long John Wentworth, Judge Caton, the Hon. Isaac N. Arnold, and a score of others as well known. There was no daily paper then to chronicle the events of the day. and we have left no reports of the political meetings at which speeches were made by Long John Went- worth. Judge Caton, J. Y Scammon, and others, and a great loss to the history of Chi- cago it is that these are missing. THE FIRST NEWSPAPEB. Neither were there any reports made of the parties, and we don't know what the belles of Chicago wore in 1833. There was not a newspaper of any kind published here when the village was incorporated, and it was not until Nov. 26, 1833, three months after the incorporation of Chicago village, that the people had a newspaper of their own. This was a six-column tour-page sheet called the Chicago Democrat, and published by John Calhoun, who had just arrived from Sackett's Harbor a few weeks before. It was about the middle of September, 1833, that Mr. Calhoun shipped his printing- press, type, and other material, includiner a small quantity of paper, from Sackett's Har- bor in charge of two apprentices. A three- weeks' voyage brought them to Chicago early in October. When Mr. Calhoun arrived he found his apprentices at the Wolf Tavern, then kept by Chester IngersolL He secured an office in the second story of a building which was then being erected at the south- west corner of South Water and Clark streets. By helping on with the work, hold- ing a candle while Ashbel Steele plastered the room at night, it was soon ready for occupancy. WHAT SHOULD IT BE. Then the editor stopped to consider what should be the politics of his paper. He did not know whether to take a neutral stand or one side of the political question. Being an ardent admirer of President An- drew Jackson he concluded to be a Demo- crat, and therefore the name of his paper. The Chicago Democrat was published every Tuesday and the terms of subscription were $2. 50 in advance. The paper received a lib- eral patronage, many of the citizens sub- scribing for three and four copies each to have sent to their friends in the East. This little weekly was the beginning of journalism in Chicago and its first numbers outlined the policy of Chicago papers ever since making local improvements of more importance than outside affairs. The Democrat advo- cated the completing of a railroad to Chicago, which was already moving Westward, and it urged the building of the canaL In the winter of 1834 the editor ran out of paper, and had to suspend his publication until the following spring. The subscription list of the Democrat in its first years contains the names of 147 people, so we can see that Chicago journalism, like all great things, had a small beginning. But Mr. Calhoun also ran a job -printing office in connection with his paper, and his account book shows that printing ball tickets was no inconsiderable item. He also printed the government blanks for the land office, and for want of a lever press his wife ironed out the sheets with a flat-iron. The last issue of the paper by Mr. Calhoun bears date Nov. 16, 1836. Then it was sold to Isaac Hill, and immediately transferred to John Wentworth. FIBST DAILY PAPEB. The American was the first daily paper in Chicago and in the State of Illinois. It was started by William Stewart April 9, 1839. It was discontinued for want of support Oct. 17, 1842, and on the last day of the same month W. W. Brackett, who had been one of its editors, started the Express as its successor. In 1844 the political friends of Henry Clay bought out the Express, and started the Journal as a Whig paper, the first number being issued April 22, 1844. The stock- holders appointed an editorial committee, consisting of T. J. Lisle Smith, W. H. Brown, George W. Meeker. J. Y. Scammon. and Grant CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 41 Goodrich, with R. L. Wilson and J. W. Norris as office editors and business managers. This was the small beginning of journalism In Chicago, and it has branched out until it would be almost impossible to give its history. The little beginning made by Mr. Calhoun would now cover one of the largest industries in the city. The man who then wrote leaders, reported balls and dog fights, and edited all the copy, besides setting the type and running the presses, and his little weekly paper would find that fifty years had put a great difference between the paper of 1833 and that of 1883, and that his work was now done by not less than 10,OOO people. It would be a great surprise to the editor of the Democrat to see so many men taking care of his work in so short a time as fifty years. SOME FIGURES. There are now in Chicago more than 2,000 printers men who do nothing but set the type for the volumes of matter prepared for them in book or newspaper articles, bills, or other forms of advertisements. There are 250 printing establishments out- side the newspaper offices, and there are over 300 publishers who employ from half a dozen to a hundred men. The great dailies have from 100 to 200 men at work on them in various capacities, and truly the little printing office started in 1833 has grown into a great surprise. The list of newspapers and periodicals and other publications issued regularly includes 275, and they run from the daily paper to the advertising sheet sent out by large in- dustries. Not a branch of trade is without its organ. A STRIKING COMPARISON. There can be no better illustration of the growth of Chicago than is furnished by a comparison of THE INTEB OCEAN of 1883 with the Democrat of 1833. In place of the 147 subscribers who read the Democrat fifty years ago, THE INTEK OCEAN now sends out everv week more than 300,000 copies, reaching 150,000 families. Instead of one man as "editor, printer, and mail clerk, occupying a single room in the second story of a little frame building, THE INTER OCEAN now has a great block, in which 200 men are employed, with a weekly pay- roll that would be sufficient to equip more than fifty printing offices such as that which Mr. Calhoun established in 1883. Instead of having the papers printed by the wife of the editor passing her fiat-iron over the type, THE INTER OCEAN is produced upon three of the finest presses in the world, with a capacity of 50,000 an hour, and by which the papers are printed, folded, cut, and pasted by a single process. THE INTER OCEAN prints as many papers each week as would have supplied the sub- scribers of the Democrat for twenty years. And instead of receiving its news by a half-breed Indian on a pony, once a week, or by a vessel around the fakes, semi-occasionally, it has private telegraphic wires to New York and Washington, and cor- respondents in every part of the globe. It receives seven cablegrams from London, where the editor of the Democrat received a letter once; and pays pays each month for news an amount that, in his time, would have been considered a princely fortune. The postage account of tne paper the money it expends to prepay the postage upon its mail edition reached over $20,000 last year; proving, by the official records, that it had the largest circulation of any weekly paper in the United States. CHICAGO NEWSPAPER UNION. REPRESENTING 550 PUBLISHERS. The metropolitan proportions assumed by successful business ventures and corpora- tions in Chicago has no more striking illustra- tion than is presented by the growth and present extended operations of the Chicago Newspaper Union. Established in October, 1870, it was left by the great fire, one of the largest printing houses In the city. Steady growth compelled removal to 114 Monroe street, and from there to the present and per- manent location at 271 and 273 Franklin street, where substantially the entire large building is occupied. This success, like all permanent business success, rests upon the supply of something needed and demanded by the people. In most instances the publisher of the country journal, although encouraged by good words and the moral support of tiie community, is not blessed with such substantial income as will warrant heavy expenditure on general editorial work. If he gives due attention to local news and interests it is about all he can do, with profit. Here the Chicago Newspaper Union steps in, to the re- lief of the overworked editor and the tangi- ble benefit of his subscribers. It furnishes him with an important portion of his paper, ready printed. Upon this part of his journal he has the help of trained journalists, who provide his readers with matter fresh, read- able, condensed, and carefully edited. He knows, and his patrons know, that no matter of any importance will escape the notice of these associates or fail of due attention at their hands. Thus relieved, he has time to m ke for his readers a better local paper than he otherwise could, and he gives them a bet- ter general newspaper than could be pro- vided on any other plan at ten times the ex- pense. The Chicago Newspaper Union now supplies partially printed sneets to over 550 publishers. It reserves a limited space for advertising in each paper, and as these are the home papers, read and reread through the week, no better ad vertising medium can be found. The present officers are: Presi- dent, John F. Cramer, and Manager C. E. Strong. Fifty skilled employes are kept busy and eight modern presses. The Union also publishes the Chicago Ledger, a weekly literary journal, circulating from ten to fif- teen thousand copies. The establishment also deals in printers' supplies, carrying in stock all material for newspaper or job print- ing outfits, together with a complete stock of papers and envelopes. THE PUBLISHING TRADE, ITS RAPID GBOWTH. For many years Chicago was content to leave the book publishing business to East- ern cities, but since 1860 this line of trade has developed to a surprising extent, so that now Chicago ranks fourth among American cities in this industry. In 1882 over 3,000,000 books were turned out by Chi- cago publishers. Its total publishing busi- ness in 1880, including printing, binding, lithograp jing, newspapers, etc., engaged 42 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTUBY. 226 establisnments, $2,610,000 capital, 4,740 employes, and turned off products of the value of $9,075,000. A feature of the publishing business which has developed of late years to a marvelous degree is the production and sale of books to be sold by subscription This is manifested by the statistics of the subscription book agencies. It is reported that one Eastern firm has through such agencies taken orders for more than 250,000 copies of a single work since the first day of last August Chi- cago is following close after its Eastern com- petitors in this trade, and many of the most successful publications of this nature are issued here. jgAs one method of ascertaining what THE BOOK APPETITE of the toiling, reading and thinking Amer- ican masses calls for, it is worth while to note the contents of one of this class of works. On the shelf behind us stands a work entitled "The Secrets of Success in Business tail Business, Railroading and Express Busi- ness, The Chicago Board of Trade, The Union Stock Yards. Mining, Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange. That such books sell far more rapidly than romances is an indica- tion that the American mind prefers fact to fiction, substance to fancy. DIAGBAMS AND PICTOBIAL ILLUSTBATIONS are employed in teaching nowadays much more than ever before. They are absolutely requisite to the clear understanding of most subjects, and the people know it The book above mentioned answers to this popular re- quirement, for it contains about 200 dia- grams and engravings, some of which are said to have cost several hundred dollars each. The one above illustrates the opera- tion of the Chicago Bank Clearing-house, an institution through which the banks of this great city make daily settlements, aggregat- ing millions on millions of dollars. The en- graving is accompanied with others on the same subject, and several quarto pages of CHICAGO CLEARING HOUSE. Life," a late addition to the text-books of the people's home college. It is the result of years of study and experience by men whose business it has been to master the problems of commercial and manufacturing transac- tions and transportation and teach them to others Messrs. G. L. Howe and O. M. Pow- ers, conjoint principals of the Metropolitan Business College of this city. Now, a work of this nature, admirably adapted to school young men and women in the lessons of practical life, in the art of getting on in the world, touches the whole race of bread- winners on a rubject in which they are all in- terested, and it is not surprising that shrewd subscription agents, versed in the wants of the people, are eagerly engaged in pushing the sale of it The following are a few of the chapter heads: Business Writing, Business Forms, Political History of the United States, Book- keeping, Elements of Success in Business, The Bank Clearing House, Wholesale and Be- explanation, prepared with the assistance of the Manager of the Clearing-house, William Henry Smith, Esq. Similarly lucid explana- tions follow all the 200 illustrations. Add to such a work a good dictionary of the English language, a good cyclopedia, a standard history of the United States and a wisely compiled synopsis of universal his- tory, and a first-class newspaper, and the possessor's home college mav produce self- taught men and women ready to achieve greater success in life than the average col- lege graduate. THE CUKRENT. THIS SPLENDID LITEBABY WEEKLY has fairly captured the whole country, and Chicago and the entire West are justly proud of its magnificent achievement. Upward of eight hundred leading publications through- out the United States and Canada have pro- nounced it the handsomest, ablest, and most CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTUBY. interesting 1 weekly periodical in the United States. Its success, though phenomenal, is deserved. It has been wholly the result of years of thorough preparatory work. Its subscription list is already as large as most of the old-established periodicals and it cov- ers every State and Territory in the Union, as well as an important foreign constituency. The Current gives, each week not once a month in the dreary, half-forgotten fash- ion of the monthlies brief, terse, and intelligent discussion of all matters of real human interest; and, besides this, furnish the largest number of brief, valuable, and fascinating literary articles, including poems, short stories, serials, sketches, essays, papers, and political and scientific discussions, of any weekly publication in the world. It has already engaged and has first manuscripts from upward of 100 of the best known writers of America and Europe. The Current is clean, noble, and elevating, and deserves a place, as it will surely have, in the home of every intelligent family in America. The subscription price is only $4 per year. Send for it. Address simply the Current, Chicago. AMERICAN PRESS ASSOCIATION. TWO HUNDEED DAILY PAPERS. This association, established in Chicago Aug. 1, 1882, and later in New York, Cincin- nati, and St. Louis, serve over 200 daily papers witn 8,000 words of the latest news, stereo- typed and expressed night and morning. This service is supplemented by a wire re- port. They also supply several hundred pa- pers with fresh miscellany, short and con- tinued storiea Their latest feature is the furnishing of original matter, obtained at great expense from the most popular writers. THE REMINGTON TYPE- WRITER is unqualifiedly superior to all other type- writing machines in principle, in construc- tion, in material used, in workmanship, and in speed. It is also more durable, easier to separate, and in every way more desirable than any invention of the kind which has been offered to the public. Merchants, law- yers, and journalists now use the Remington Type-writer, and are largely dispensing with the services of pen-copyists at a vast saving 1 of time and money. It is sold oy Wyckoff, Seaman & Bendict, No. 38 Madison street. PAPER AND STATIONERY. BRADNER SMITH & CO. MANUFACTUBEBS AND DEALEBS IN PAPEB. The firm of Bradner Smith & Co. , manufac- turers and dealers in paper, is just twenty years younger than the city of Chicago, hav- ing been established in 1853 at No. 12 La Salle street in a little store 20x60 feet in size. It was a small beginning, but the firm has kept even pace with the development of Chi- cago, and has kept growing each year as the city has grown until it is now the largest in Chicago, and one of the largest in the world, doing a business of $2,000,000 a year. The firm has now three establishments in the city of Chicago, branch houses at Kansas City, Minneapolis, and St. Paul, and operates six paper mills, manufacturing and selling every sort and size of news, book, wrapping, wri- ting, blotting, and other papers, card board, envelopes, twines, wood pulp, and paper manufacturers' supplies. There was very little paper manufactured in the West when Bradner Smith & Co. com- menced business, and most of their stock was brought from Eastern mills, but now they not only make their own stock, but sup- ply hundreds of other houses with their man- ufactures, shipping paper by the train load from their several mills. Bradner Smith & Co. commenced manufac- turing in 1854 at Rockton, 111., having that year purchased the Winnebago mill, which now makes ten tons per day of express, man- ilia, rag, and straw wrapping paper. They continue to operate this mill, and their other manufactories are the Led- yard Pulp Mill, at Ledyard, Wis., which makes four tons of dry 'pulp per day; the Rozet Mill, at Three Rivers, which produces four tons per day of print and book paper ; the Tippecanoe Paper Mill, at Monticello, Ind.. which makes two tons of print paper daily. The Marinette Mill, at the place of the same name in Wisconsin, manufactures five tons of print paper, and the mill at Menoimnee, Mich. , produces four tons of manilla paper and six tons of wood pulp daily. Besides their own manufactories, Bradner Smith & Co. carry all varieties of fancy goods, wedding and other stationery, im- ported and domestic, the Hurlbut plate paper, Crane's pure linen flats, the Ger- manic flat and ledger papers, and all other classes of goods used by stationers, printers, book- binders, and publication houses. Regu- lar sizes and standard weights are always in stock, but special sizes and weights can be made to order and furnished promptly at mill prices, the facilities of the firm for sup- plying the trade being unequaled by any house in the West. A full stock of colored papers is always on hand, ana fancy papers for special purposes will be made to order in quantities to suit. They are also manufac- turers of the very best map paper, ana will furnish any weight or size desired at short notice. In cover papers Bradner Smith & Co. have the larirest and best-assorted stock in the country, East or West. The firm are sole agents for the sale of Weston's pure linen ledger and record pa- pers, which were awarded the gold medal at the Paris Exposition and the highest award at the Centennial Exposition for a combina- tion of all the desirable qualities. They are also sole agents for the celebrated "commer- cial safety paper." for checks, notes, bills of exchange, bonds, letters of credit, etc.. which has been officially indorsed and recommended by the clearing-house authorities of the principal cities of the country. This is really a safety paper, combining positive security from fraudulent alterations, either by the use of chemical agents or mechanical means. Tbis paper is made from the very best mate- rials, treated chemically in its manufacture with agents which give positive results. Any attempt at alteration by chemical means im- mediately destroys the color in the body of the paper, also the surface tinting or lining, which, being once destroyed, cannot be re- stored. Bradner Smith & Co. make a specialty of fancy ruling, using: only the very best inks, 44 ] CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. which, for brilliancy of color and durability, are not excelled. They also carry a full line of all colors, sizes, and styles of envelopes, and will make odd sizes to order. All kinds of fancy stationery and stationers' sundries are kept in stock, and also a full line of illus- trated advertising' cards, manufactured by Marques, Gair & Bailey, of Paris, London, and New York. The reputation of the firm and the charac- ter of their goods needs no indorsement. A record of thirty years of active business places them at the 'head of the trade in the West, and their references are their cus- tomers. THE J. M. W. JONES STATIONERY AND FEINTING COMPANY is the oldest and most extensive establish- ment of the kind in Chicago, and has no rival in this country. The house was es- tablished thirty -five years ago and has been under the general management of Mr. J. M. W. Jones, the veteran stationer of Chicago and a leading business man for a period of twenty-six years. No mercantile house could enjoy a higher reptuation than this one in the estimation of Chicagoans, and no concern is more entirely deserving of popu- larity. The house possesses every facility for conducting a first-class business, and now offer to the public as fine a stock at as low prices as was ever exhibited in this city. THE J. W. BUTI.EK PAPER COMPANY. A WELL-KNOWN LANDMARK. Any list of prominent business concerns of the city would be incomplete indeed without reference to the well-known landmark in Chicago business circles, the name of which heads this paragraph. The J. W. Butler Paper Company is the direct successor of the firm of Butler and Hunt, which commenced the paper business at 48 State street in 1844, the senior member of the firm being Mr. Owen Butler. From the first the policy of the house has been a safe enterprise, controlled oysuch conservatism as sought legitimate growth, rather than any brilliant venture. Under this policy the business has grown to be un- surpassed in the magnitude of its trade and the amount and variety of paper carried. In no other house can be found so large a variety of stock, the J. W. Butler Paper Company handling tfie production of fifteen paper mills. The mammoth proportions the busi- ness has assumed, fully occupy 51,300 square feet of flooring, and the books show average sales amounting to twenty tons of paper per day. THE SKEEN & STUART STATIONERY COMPANY was established within the present year, suc- ceeding the old and popular house of Skeen & Stuart, which was organized in 1873. The new company commenced business with a capital of $100,000, and with Mr. J. C. Skeen as President, E. C. Stuart Vice President, H. E. Thayer Secretary, and Dwight Jackson Treasurer. The company do a large and rapidly extending business as wholesale and retail stationers, printers, blank-book manu- facturers, and lithographers. Their wstab- lishment, No. 77 Madison street, is one of the largest of the kind in the city, and supplied with every appliance which such a business could by any possibil- ity require. Their stock is complete in every detail, their prices cannot be dis- counted, and their work is perfect Messrs. Skeen & Stuart have a multitude of friends in Chicago friends who have been made in the best of all ways, in the course of busi- ness, and who have been retained because they find it for their business interests to continue old relations. The specialty of this company is commercial stationery, printing, and blank books. In these departments of their great business it is safe to say that they cannot be excelled. PRINTERS AND ENGRAVERS. W. P. 1>UNN & CO. ARTISTIC PRINTING. When anybody in Chicago wlio is really posted wishes something elaborately nice in the way of artistic printing they go instinct- ively to W. P. Dunn & Co.'s, No. 57 Washing- ton street. The head of this concern, which is now so well known in Chicago, is an old INTER OCEAN employe, and while in that em- ploy made it so constantly manifest that he was a first-class man, that it was no matter of surprise when he suddenly struck out on his own account, and made just such a pro- nounced success as such a man in any de- partment of life invariably achieves when he determines to take the chances which are inevitable in every business career. Mr. Dunn understood the printers' art in every particular before he attempted to establish a printing house in this city of printers, and he has so constantly given his attention to the minor details of his business, and has so persistently secured, regardless of expense, the best workmen to be had, that he has secured for his establishment a repu- tation which it is safe to say is second to that of no printing house west of the Atlantic seaboard. It is not with the miscellaneous public alone that Messrs. Dunn & Co. have succeeded in securing customers, but these gentlemen have so emphatically made their mark in their own peculiar avoca- tion that the daily newspaper offices of Chi- cago have fallen into a way of looking to them for assistance in any emergency that arises. THE INTER OCEAN Company is pleased to acknowledge that Messrs. W. P. Dunn & Co. have printed the musical supplement, which has been such an attractive feature of their Wednesday issue for a long time, in a man- ner which has redounded not only to their credit, but which has been entirely satisfac- tory to the patrons of this journal. Messrs. Dunn & Co. are prepared, at their elaborately furnished and provided headquar- ters, to do* anything and everything m the way of job, book, circular, or catalogue print- ing" Tne firm has every modern appliance in the shape of presses and material. They omploy about fifty workmen ail experts CHICAGO'S 1-IBST HALF OENTUHY. 45 and do not permit any other printing house in Chicago to underbid them in price, or to do more thoroughly artistic work. CRUMP LAlir.L. COMPANY. A SINGULAE INDUSTRY. Among the interesting and singular indus- tries of the age may be classed label print- ing. The demand for labels has reached as- tonishing-proportions in the last few years ; nearly every package, box, can, and bottle bears its distinctive label in every conceiva- ble shape and style of ornamentation. Pro- duction ol these goods requires long expe- rience, rare designing powers, inventive ge- nius, and intricate machinery. The officers of the Crump Label Company are Samuel Crump, President; E. S. Dickie, Vice President; Joseph Crump, Director; George W. Averell, Secretary; N. S. Colman, Treasurer. The works are the largest of their kind in the world, located at Montclair, N. J. With a floor surface of 82,770 square feet, or an area of 213 acres of land, special and valua- ble machinery, unequaled facilities, and skilled labor enable them to produce 1,000,- 000 finished labels daily, upward of 350,- 000,000 having been manufactured in 1883. They make all styles of work, from the most simple, for can or package, to the very largest, most expensive, and artistic show- card and chromo work by either letter-press or lithography; all being handled with ease and skill so pre-eminently the attribute of this house. They have branches in five dif- ferent cities, each doing a large business. The Chicago department, at 60 and 62 Wabash avenue, was established in 1873, and is under the capable management of Mr. R. S. Dickie, the Vice President of the com- pany. Any information desired by mer- chants, manufacturers, producers, and other consumers of labels in regard to their goods will receive immediate and courteous atten- tion by addressing the Chicago house. J . W. MIDIXLETON, Blank book manufacturer, printer, and sta- tioner, 55 State street. This house . was established at 196 Lake street in 1863, and for the past twenty-one years has been justly celebrated for the excellent quality of its blank books, printed work of every descrip- tion, and stationery for office use. Bankers, manufacturers, and the mercantile public in all Western States and Territories here pur- chase their supplies in small or large quan- tities, and are happy because they get their moneys' worth in^good goods, so says THE INTER OCEAN, and from experience it pro- cures its blank books of Middleton, and has found his goods entirely satisfactory in price and quality. Mr. Middleton always carries a full line of whatever goods one would expect to find in a first-class Chicago stationery house. He does not allow himself to be undersold. A. ZEESE & CO., 155 AND 157 DEARBORN STREET. ELECTROTYPING, MAP, BELIEF-LINE. AND WOOD ENGRAVING. The above establishment is the oldest and most extensive of its kind in Chicago, estab- lished by A. Zeese in connection with 8. P. Bounds in 1856. The first electrotypes ever made in Chicago were made by "this firm. In 1861 the firm, of A. Zeese '& Co. was formed, and their business soon became the leading one of its kind in Chicago Like many others, the establishment was totally destroyed in the great fire, but was the first one in the field again. The business has since grown into large proportions, and every description of electro- typing and stereotyping, from the smallest label to the largest volume, is turned out with unexcelled rapidity and in first-class style. All kinds of map and relief-line work are executed by this firm, and largely patron- ized by railroads, publishers, and others. Maps made by this firm have frequently been printed in THE INTER OCEAN. A. Zeese & Co. are also publishers of the Electrotype Journal and tne /Specimens of Electrotypes, in which are shown the latest designs of ornaments, borders, cuts, etc. Their stock in this line is the largest and most select in the country, and has a very extensive sale, not only on this but also on the other side of the Atlantic, as well as in Australia WOOD ENGRAVING. LARGEST AND OLDEST. The largest and oldest wood-engraving- es- tablishment in the West is that of Baker & Co., corner of Clark and Monroe streets, Chi- cago. They were established in 1857. A quarter of a century of prosperous business attests the excellence of their work. They are a live house, and keep up with the times'. PHOTO-ENGRAVING IN THE WEST. LEVYTYPE COMPANY. It has only been within the past two years that the art of engraving on type metal by photo-chemical means has reached that de- gree of artistic and mechanical excellence which places it on an equality with the work of Eastern establishments. Tne levytype pro- cess of photo-engraving, as operated by the Levytype Company, 159 LaSalle street, Chi- cago, gives the hig r hest artistic results For many purposes i: surpasses the slower and more costly method of engraving 1 on wood, producing" more natural and finer artistic Affects, as in the landscape, architectural, portrait, and figure worK. By the levytype process wood engravings, steel engravings, lithographs, and other engraved work in lines and crayon can be reproduced at small cost. TYPE FOUNDERS. A PLACE WORTH VISITING. BLOMGREN BROS. & CO. People who come to Chicago with an Inten- tion of seeing- what is really worth looking at, and of gaining valuable information, should make a point of visiting the electro- type and stereotype foundry of Messrs. Blomgren Brothers & Co., at No. 162 South Clark street. The brothers .are natives of Sweden, and brought with them to the new world the energy and frugality which are essentials to existence in the mother country and which produce such splendid results in substantial prosperity when exeicfei in the broader and more product- 46 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALT 1 CENTURY. ive American field. Messra Blomgren Brothers & Co. are not only mechanics of the highest grade, but they are, strictly speak- ing, artists also, and the industry in which they hold an acknowledged leading position is so essentially scientific in its multifarious details that only strictly first-class men can engage in it successfully. THE INTEB OCEAN has for a long time em- ployed this house to do its fine electrotye and stereotype work, and when it is stated further, that such work has been entirely satisfactory, tne readers of this journal will be disposed to think that the house is fully competent to compete with any establishment of the kind westf of the Atlantic seaboard. The Blomgren brothers are genial gentle- men, thoroughly interested in their calling, and always ready to show visitors through their great foundry, where an enormous capital has been employed in the purchase of the most expensive and elaborate machinery, and in the employ of the best experts, whose exclusive time and talents can only be com- manded by a large compensation. In the business to which these enterprising Scandi- navians have devoted themselves absolute accuracy of detail is necessary, and that ac- curacy characterizes all their operations is abundantly demonstrated by tne big rep- utation thev have gained throughout the Northwest The firm has been nine years in business, and is now in the weekly receipt of orders from all parts of the United States. All work done by this house is thoroughly done and will give perfect satisfaction. CHICAGO TYPK FOUNDRY. MAEDER, LUSE & CO. The Chicago Type Foundry, which is the synonym of this well-known firm, was estab- lished in 1855. Although the city since then has quintupled in growth, the business of this house has surpassed even this won- derful development. It not only has kept up to the demands of the near trade, but has established successful branch houses at San Francisco for the Pacific trade, and at Min- neapolis for the convenience of the North- west. Aside from correct principles of trade, which are interwoven with all the trans- actions of this firm, much of its success may be attributed to the fact that it has brought its productions to an exact science. Instead of casting the various types at nap-hazard, as Has been and still is the custom of many other founders, every font produced in this house bears its precise mathematical propor- tion to its standard. Practical printers ap- preciate this advantage to such an extent that other foundries are beginning to yield to the inevitable by conforming to "the" Ameri- can system ofi interchangeable type bodies," which is the standard adopted by this house. The rapid growth of Chicago business has forced many firms into prominence, but it is a matter of local pride to instance Marder, Luse & Co., who have not only responded promptly to the demand made upon their fa- cilities, but have added laurels to the Western metropolis by establishing a standard which is rapidly being followed by the older cities of the East. It is not too much to say of this house that it can thoroughly equip a printing establish- ment of any magnitude, and that no office can be entirely complete without drawing to some extent upon its resourcea In addition to a comprehensive price list and catalogue, which leaves nothing to be guessed at, they also issue a quarterly speci- men showing their latest productiona THE ILLINOIS TYPE FOUNDING: CO. LOCATED AT 265 FRANKLIN STREET, was incorporated in 1872, and commenced business the same year at 61 and 63 West Lake street They were afterward at 196 South Clark street, then at 177 Fifth avenue, and in 1882 movedto their present commodi- ous quarters. They manufacture type, brass rule, leads, slugs, etc., and are general deal- ers in printing presses, paper-cutters, and all articles nsed by printers. Entire offices fitted out with all that may be required. This foundry aims particularly to supply Western and Northwertern offices with goods suitable to their requirements. Some of the largest offices in this section have been fur- nished by them, including THE INTER OCEAN, and the universal satisfaction their goods are giving is sutticient evidence that their type is of the best character. Specimen books and special estimates are cheerful I y furaished to all who contemplate purchasing printers' material. CHAPTER IH. THE CHICAGO THEATERS. HISTORICAL. EARLY DAYS ON THE CHICAGO STAOm.. Among the evidences that best determine the substantial growth of a community are the increase and prosperity of its theaters. The desire for amusement is so great in human nature that it finds expression in the coarsest forms and commonest surroundings, ana the class or quality of the entertainment progresses toward a higher tone and more elevated plane as the variety of taste en- larges and improves with the development of population. A retrospect of fifty years is too great in the art view of Chicago life. At that time the actual events of a day were sufficiently dramatic and exciting, and the wild sounds of the prairie had enough of weird music in them to quite shut out thought of the mimicry of dangers, emotions, and suffering. But presently there grew into favor a number of athletic games that evinced the craving for the stir of the fan- cies, and the masquerading of the young peo- ple as Indians foreshadowed a time when the play siiould be the thing. It was not, however, until 1846 that any- thing deserving the name of theatric enter- prise was projected in Chicago. Some few entertainments had been given in halls and chance places, quite vagrant in character, though there is a tradition that these pioneer mountebanks were immensely AMUSING AMONG OUB EARLY SETTLERS There was some local talent, besides, that played the fiddles, sang songs, took off per- sons, and cleared some of the obstacles from the way of the coming drama. In the winter of 1 846-7 there was an attempt at regular theatrical entertainments, performances be- ing given in the fecond story of a building on Dearborn street, near South Water. About that time John B. Kice came from Buffalo to Chicago, perceived the excellent chance for a theater, and enterprisingly set to work to taKe advantage of the growing demand. He built a small frame theater on Randolph stieet, east of Dearborn, and kept it open during the spring, summer, and fall seasona The winter season, now the best, was then quite dull, so Mr. Rice used to run his company, a very good stock organization, up to Milwaukee for the winter period. The plays were generally classic or at least of standard worth, a taste for trash and ab- surdity not having prevalence then. But it was the fashion . in order to re- lieve any undue strain upon the patience or sensibilities of an audience, to give variety to the performance. So it was the custom, when the curtain had descended on an act of a play, Shakespearean perhaps, to send some one before the curtain to sing 1 or dance. A sailor's hornpipe or a Highland fling was often the prelude to A SOUL-STIRRING TRAGIC EPISODE, and in some cases one of the actors of the drama did the entre act diversion. There was generally a farcical afterpiece to send the audiences away in good spirits. The variety show of to-day was then unknown. The stars who traveled in annual tour of the country used to play at this house, so that the public got the best fruits of the American stage, save in exceptional instances. This theater, the progenitor, so to speak, of the magnificent structure of theaters now our pride, was burned in 1850, and J. H. McVicker and Sam Myers, members of the company, took the troupe on the road, play- ing on their own account, while Rice de- voted himself to the building of a new thea- ter, this time of brick and on Dearborn street, between Randolph and Washington. This was then regarded as a very imposing edi- fice, and was opened in the spring of 1851. McVicker built a theater in 1857, and opened it with "Money." JFrom that time began the real theater life of Chicago, and about that period hovered what many now believe to have been the spirit of the best days of the drama. There were memorable times, to be sure, between that date and the fire of 1871, which, practically, began a new era for Chicago, and it would be a pleasant task to here set down the things that are chiefly worth re- membering were space available. There are recollections of great actors gone, of others in the decline of power, still others grown since then into the flower of greatness, and many who, then obscure, are now prominent in place and tayored by popularity. Fifty vears is but a miracle of time in a city's life, but it is very long for the contemplation of panoramic events, most of them ripening be- fore the birth of that which makes the Chi- cago of to-day. THE FTBST OF ANY OPEEA heard in Chicago was in 1860. Strakosch then brougnt out a concert company, at the head 48 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. of which were Pattl and Brignoli, and they sang parts of opera at McVicker'a This ex- periment was so very well received that Gran came out next year with a thoroughly equipped opera company, numbering seventv people, and gave three weeks of opera It was a sensation. The musical sense of Chi- cago was vindicated, and the taste of the people highly extolled. There is no fear that we do not get credit for equally nice dis- crimination to-day. The theater tone, however, is much purer, and it is only that melancholy devotion to things forever gone out of reach that permits any one to contrast the condi- tion of thirty years ago to the disadvantage of the present state of affairs. We are much better off in many respects than we were when the stock com- panies of McVicker's, the Museum, the Adelphi, Hooley's, or the permanent minstrel companies gave the entertainments, varied by the occasional coming of. a star like Gush- man, Forrest, Booth. Barrett, Eistori, Edwin Adams, Owens, Lucca, Parepa JRosa, or any or those, who came with more eclat than do corresponding players now, when we are used to a constant round of greatness in rivalry. There were but three or four the- aters then, and events were rarer; enthusi- asm was greater, because patronage was more special to the theater. In the past ten years tne theatric growth of Chicago has been larger and of vaster importance to the city than during the thirty years preceding them, and we get more in one year than the people of a quarter of a century ago obtained in ten years. We have now SIXTEEN PERMANENT PLACES OF AMUSEMENT and five or six hails where there are occa- sional entertainments, exclusive of private institutions that continually appeal "to the public with one or another form of diver- sion. The recognized theaters are McVick- er's. Haverly's, the Grand Opera House, Hooley's, the Olympic, the Academy of Mu-ic, the Criterion, the Lyceum, the Na- tional, the Chicago Museum Theater, the Halsted Street Opera House, the New Metro- politan, and the West and South Side 'Muse- ums. In Central Music Hall, Farwell Hall, Weber Hall, Hershey Hall, the West End Opera House, there is oftener something doing than not. The theaters named are capable of accommodating 25.000 people nightly, and it is a small computation to say our theaters entertain 100,000 people every week, on an average, throughout the year. The value of Chicago as an ainusement center can be very clearly perceived. On this basis which is very just when we remember that it covers no other patronage tnan that set down to the regular theaters and takes the middle range of prices the people of Chi- cago spend more than $5,200,000 for their amusement each year. Not one of the Chi- cago theaters but is a largely profita- ble enterprise, and yet there is only one manager who owns his own thea- ter. His income per annum is, therefore, some $20,000 greater than any of the others, though he plays to no larger business, theaters of his 'class considered. The rent of Chicago theaters ranges from $5,000 to $30,000 "a year. The total value of theater property in Chicago is about $3,000,000. The contrast between this prosperous condi- tion and the wooden theater of 1846 demonstrates what Chicago has done in less than forty years, for the enterprise of which this is an illustration has been universal in corresponding effects, since the theaters fol- low commercial growth and prosperity, and are never found successful in laggard com- munities. M'VICKEK'S THEATER, AND ITS VETERAN PROPRIETOR. To write the history of McVicker's Theater would be to review the dramatic record of Chicago, for it is the oldest house in the West, and has always been at the head and front of theatrical affairs. Science and art have suggested no practical improvement it has not been the first to adopt, and for a play to have been presented or an actor to have appeared before its footlights has been a certificate of merit to the public and to the profession. It has always been recognized and respected the world over as a perfectly successful theater, conducted solely in the interest of the truest and best type's of the drama, and the motive of its proprietor dur- ing the third of a century he has spent in Chicago, has ever been to e'levate the taste of the people, to encourage that which is good, and to condemn that which is bad in the art of which he is so noble a representative. Mr. McVicker was born in New York in 1822, and in his early youth developed a fondness for the drama, which naturally led him "behind the scenes. " He made his' first appearance in amateur entertainments, but entered the profession at the bottom of the ladder as a call boy at the St. Charles Theater of New Orleans, then under the man- agement of THE FAMOUS SOL SMITH. Here he educated himself by observation and by the study of the famous actors whom it was his duty to call upon the stage. After three years of this sort of service, at the age of 20,'he was given minor parts in the plays, his debut being a speech ten lines in length. Having shed his swaddling clothes, he went to Nashville in the company of Mr. Neafie, where he appeared in heavy tragedy with considerable success; but his first ad- venture in the higher role of the drama was at the National Theater of Cincinnati, being there given the proud position of "first walking gentleman" of a stock company that was quite celebrated in its day. A few years after he returned to New Orleans and played comedy parts at the American Theater, making his first great hit a's "the grave-digger" to Edwin Forrest's Hamlet in 1847, being then 25 years of a.ue. He accompanied Forrest on his tour, and finally landed in Chicago, where he joined John's. Bice's company at the old theater on Dearborn street, and remained here four years. While here he -purchased the comedy pieces of Dan Marble, and in 1852 started out as a star, meeting with wonderful success and becoming recognized as the leading comedian of that day. In 1855 he made a tour of Europe, and played "Sam Patch" for twelve consecutive weeks in London. THE FIRST "M'VICKER'S THEATER." Returning to America in 1856, he assumed the management of Wood's Theater in St. Louis, but remained there only one season, returning to Chicago in 1857 to stay. He built a theater on the site he occupies to- day, and on the 5ch of November, 1857, opened it with the following bill, the original copy of which hangs in his office : CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 49 M'VICKER'S NEW CHICAGO THEATER. Madison, between State and Dearborn, Chicago. Tobin's Comedy of the Proprietor and Manager J. H.MeVICKER Assistant Manager F.HARRINGTON This new and beautiful Temple of the Drama, erected at a cost of Eighty-five Thousand Dollars, and in every particular the Most Elegant Theater in the West, and capable of seating comfortably Two Thou- sand Five Hundred Persons, will be open to the public THURSDAY EVENING, NOY, 5, 1857, The Manager, believing he has succeeded in giving to the public of Chicago a Theater worthy of their liberal patronage, assures them that his endeavors will be to place before them attractions which Cannot Fail to Please. He has also made arrangements with all the First Class Legitimate Stars IN THE COUNTRY. Miss Charlotte Cnshman, Mr. Chas. Matthews. Miss Eliza Logan, Mr. Jas. E. Murdoch, Miss J. M. Davenport, Mr. Kdvrin Booth, Mr. A. J. \eafle, Mr. Jas. Proctor, Mr. and Mrs. John Drew, Mr. Henry Placlde, Mr. and Mrs. Florence, And Mr. II. A. Perry, Who will appear in rapid succession. He will also introduce a STOCK COMPANY, Whose talents alone trill be a guarantee of Superior Entertainments, among whom may be enumerated Mr. David Hanchett, Miss Alice Mann, Mr. F. A. Monroe, Mrs. Lottie Hough, Mr. F. S. Buxton, Hiss Kli/a Mann, Mr. W. C. Forrester, Miss Fanny Rich, Mr. A. J. Grorer, Mrs. K. J. Allen, Mr. J. B. Uhl, Mrs. W. C. Forrester, Mr. If. J. Allen, Miss Fanny Price, Mr. W. Gay, Miss Julia Florence, Mr. Havelock, Mrs. W. Gay, Mr. H. B. Jones, Miss Emma Logan, Mr. J. Taylor, Miss Xellie Gray, Mr. W. S. Higgins, Miss Jennie Seacore, Mr. F. Harrington, Miss Julia DeLancey, Mr. J. H. McVicker, Miss Mary Wright, Hiss J. Martin, Mrs. E. DeLancey, Mrs. Anna Martin. THE ORCHESTRA Will be Composed of Twelve Solo Performers, selected with great care, Musical Director Mons. LOUIS CHATEL Scenic Artists} |R.S'.|MITH Machinist Mr. WALLACE HUME Decorator Mr. A. J. MARTIN" Costumer Mrs. A. J. GROVER Assistant Manager F.HARRINGTON (From th? pen of B. F. Taylor, Esq.), will be spoken MISS ALICE MANN. The Glorious National Anthem, THE STAR SPANGLED BANNER Will be Suag by the Entire Company. The old favorite and much-admired actor. HONEYMOON! And Buckstone's Farce of the ROUGH DIAMOND Will introduce the candidates for public favor. The entertainments will commence with a National Overture by the Orchestra ; Leader, Mons. L. Chatel. After which the Opening Address will be spoken by Miss Alice Mann. The entire company will then be introduced and sine "The Star Spangled Banner." GRAND OVERTURE ORCHESTRA After which, Tobin's comedy of the HOIVEYMOOIY! DTJKEARANZA , ...H. A. PERRY Rolondo Mr. F. A. Monroe Balthazar...... W.O.Forrester Count Mon talbin Walter Gay Jaaues F. S. Buxton Lopez A. J.Grover Compillo W. Hiagins Pedro J. H. Jones Juliana Miss Alice Mana Volante Mrs. Lotty Hough Zonora , Miss Fanny Rich OVERTURE ORCHESTRA Who, having returned, after an absence of four years, will make his first appearance as the 13TJK1E To conclude with Buckstone's farce of the ROUGH DIAMOND ! CousinJoe J. H. McVicker Margery Lotty Hough HE SUCCUMBS TO A PANIC. The financial panic which overturned busi- ness in 1857 brought McVicker down with the rest, and he was compelled to sell his pet and pride, but not without a mental reserva- tion that he would buy it back again, which he did a few years after, having in the mean- time returned to the stage. Having 1 recov- ered his house, he resumed the work he had begun, of giving Chicago a theater that equaled any in the land, and through his en- terprise the people of Chicago were enabled to witness the performance of every dram- atic celebrity that has ever appeared in America He often took comedy parts with the fa- mous stars that visited Chicago in the days before the fire, and the old residents remem- ber when a play was not complete without MxsVicker in the cast To give a list of those who have trod his boards would be to furnish a catalogue of all the dramatic planets that have illuminated the last half century. His favorite characters were Sam Patch, Nick Bottom, the weaver, in a "Midsummer Night's Dream," and Dogberry in "As You Like It" IN PRIVATE UFB and in business affairs Mr. McVicker has been an influential and esteemed citizen. Although always charitable and generous, he has never hesitated to fight when he found a foe, and to whisper a word against his pro- fession has always been to tread on the tail of McVicker's coat. On the platform and in the press he has been an able and eloquent defender of the stage against its assailants, and he writes and speaks as well as he acts. He has been an energetic and successful manager, in business affairs as well as in the line of his proi^ssion, and his ins fluence and standing in commercial circle- 50 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. is equal to that he has always exer- cised in dramatic affairs. Several times has he been suggested as a candidate for Mayor of Chicago, and he might have adorned that and other official positions but for a horror of politics and political intrigue. The beautiful dramatic temple McVieker now owns and occupies, and which is as dear to him as the blood that throbs in his veins, is the third theater that has borne his name. That which was erected in 1857 was enlarged and remodeled in 1869, and was superb in all its appointinenta This was de- stroyed two years afterward in the great fire, but the work of re-erection was commenced as soon as the bricks were cold. THE PKESENT M'VICKEB'S THEATEE stands as a model in all of its appointments, one of the most beautiful, comfortable, and convenient houses in the world, and is sun- passed in no way. If any one can suggest an improvement that will bring McVicker's Theater nearer perfection the owner will adopt it before sundown ; but that would be impossible to do, for no one is more familiar with the science of theater construction and arrangement than he. and in all the details his house stands as near the ideal as human ingenuity can make it. McVicker always has the best; the finest scenery, the most luxurious equipments, the best orchestra, the most artistic 'displays are a matter of study and pride with him, and he has the admirable faculty of inspiring the same feeling and ambition he himself pos- sesses in every one of his employes. None of the faults that plague other managers, none of the annoyances that are endured by the public at other play-houses are tolerated here, and, although his patrons are the most fastidious in the country, there never is made a complaint. One may heap abuse upon Mr. McVicker and he will smile like a philosopher, but to cast a reflection upon his theater is an insult he will never forget or forgive. FOB PUBLIC PROTECTION. His hobby is the protection of the public against panics and tire, and he has made it the study of his life. There is no theater in the world so amply provided with safety ap- pliances, or so well arranged for exita The house stands alone, with a broad street in front and a broad alley upon each of the other three sides. It can be entered and left from any of the four points of the compass, and the largest crowd that ever occupied the building could be discharged into the street in two minutes. There are forty exits, one at the end of every aisle in every part of the house. Although he had adopted every fire-proof appliance he wasn't satisfied with" them, but has erected on each side of his house iron balconies and iron stairways, which lead from the galleries to the streets. These are reached by doors which can be instantly opened and afford the safest means of escape that can be provided. HOOLEY'S THEATER. THE PARLOB HOME OP COMEDY. There is no more familiar face in the city of Chicago, and no man better known, than Mr. R. M. Hooley. or "Uncle Dick," as he is called by the dramatic profession of which he has been so honorable a representative, and to which he has been so devoted a patron. He has built or remodeled more theaters than any man living, and his experi- ence as a successful manager is almost with- out a parallel With his benignant eye and patriarchal beard, he looks what he is the patron saint of the drama, and one to whom every member of the profession appeals in distress. His relations with the public have always been such as to command the greatest confidence and the highest esteem, and among his associates he is regarded with an affection that is akin to reverence. In his business and social intercourse Mr. Hojley has been considerate, honorable, and up- right, and it is not from any act of his own that he has an enemy in the world. Although born in Ireland (in 1822), his par- ents removed to Manchester, England, when he was a mere child, and it was there that he received the education and training which fitted him for a long and honorable career of usefulness. HIS FATHER WAS A PBOSPEBOUS MERCHANT, and intended that the son should enter the medical profession, and he was started upon a course of academic study to that end. But in his 18ch year he developed such a passion for music that the idea of medicine was abandoned, and young Hooley diligently applied himself to "perfecting the artistic taste. Science lost what art gained, for Mr. Hooley possessed that peculiar force of char- acter and power of mind that compel suc- cess in whatever direction they are em- ployed. Having acquired a knowledge of music, Mr. Hooley naturally turned toward the theater for its expression. He began humbly, but he was not of the sort to remain in a sub- ordinate position, and as he gained favor he reached hopefully to higher thinga He had the qualities of management, and he, in due course of time, convinced others that his business in life was to govern not be governed in his relations with the theater. It is impossible in a brief sketch to follow a man of such wide experience along the suc- cessful progress of his career, comprising as it does, nearly forty years of managerial en- terprise. His personal resources were won- derful, and his execution was never less than his aim, his acts being always to improve. He has controlled theaters in Lon ion. New York, Brooklyn. Williamsburg, San Francisco, Madi- son, Philadelphia, and Chicago, besides hav- ing theatric interests that were without a local habitation. Though he has encoun- tered many of the vicissitudes from which no manager has ever been free, HIS INDOMITABLE SPIRIT AND TIRELESS ENERGY have led him to triumph over misfortune and secure victory, where others less capable would have accepted defeat. He has invari- ably kept pace with the spirit of the times, changing base with altered conditions of public taste and education, holding himself abreast of progressive movements in any other direction of social or artistic impulse. He is, therefore, to-day, what he was in his prime, a representative manasrer. Mr. Hooley did not permanently settle in Chicago until 1869, twenty -four years after his first visit here. He then devoted his attention wholly to maintaining a theater here. As his greatest delight is found in making others happy, he naturally sought to amuse by an appeal to the joyous CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 51 in human nature, preferring to excite laughter to playing upon the graver emo- tiona He was then possessed of a handsome fortune made from his phenomenally pros- perous management of bis Brooklyn theater. He purchased the Bryan Hall property, occupying the site of the present Grand Opera House, and converted it into an ex- quisite beautiful theater, superior in ele- gance to any of the smaller opera houses of the country. It immediately became a pop- ular and highly favored resort. MTNSTEELST WAS THEN THE INSTITUTION. Mr. Hooley was one of the pioneers in the elevation of this style of entertainment from the crude Ethiopianism of its infancy to the refined and musical delight it afterward became. He was. indeed, for a time associ- ated with the memorable George Christy, who is set down as the father of negro minstrelsy. Mr. Hooley opened his charming little opera house and i'or a year maintained it as a min- strel resort. In the summer of 1870, how- ever, the interior was remodeled, made even more pleasing than before, and con verted into a comedy house, Frank Aiken and a well-se- lected company giving the entertainments, that were the boast of the community. The great fire destroyed this place, and Mr. Hooley suffered a loss of something more than $150,000. Such was his established prestige as a manager he had no difficulty in keeping the people with him in new ven- tures; and when he became manager of the theater that now bears his name, he found the old patronage ready to hail him as rose from the ashes of his first fame, and HOOLEY'S PABLOB HOME OF COMEDY secured a popularity that made it distin- guished throughout the country. There nourished the most numerous and most ad- mirable body of comedians that ever graced a Chicago theater as a home organization. Men and women who have since become celebrated in independent lines of work co- operated in the production of well chosen plays, gaining for the theater a pre-eminence in general regard that continued unin- terrupted until Mr. Hooley sent the company on its memorable excursion to San Francisco, and the combination system set in with all its destroying forces leveled against art and the best interests of the theater. Since that time Mr. Hooley has, somewhat mournfully we imagine, seen the reins of man- agement pass out of the hands of theater proprietors, who have become servants in their own establishments to the speculative ventures of the combina- tion directors. Yet for all that Mr. Hooley exercises a vigorous inspectorship of all at- tractions that desire to secure dates at his theater, and he takes every possible precau- tion against the admission of organizations that he thinks are below the standard of -excellence he is desirous to maintain for his theater. Though one of the kindliest and most generous of men, he is admittedly "cranky" when he finds that he has unwittingly imposed upon his patrons something that does not meet his expectation. The con- demnation of critics is mild compared with his vehement protests on such occasions. He has the amplest charity, on the other hand, for deserving but unfortunate enterprises. The instances are many where he has turned his theater over to such concerns for their ntire advantage., uncomplainingly sub- mitting to the loss of his usual percentage of receipts. He PKEFEBS DOING OTHEBS A GOOD TUBN to receiving a benefit himself, tie rejoices in making people happy, and in his whole life probably never did another an injury that he did not make good a hundred-fold of his own volition. The standard of Hooley's Theater to-day is nearer that of the old Parlor Home than at any time since the fire, which proves that Mr. Hooley does not run behind in the race. The interior structure of the house is ad- mirable in architectural arrangement and beautiful in decorative effects. A short time ago the auditorium was sub- jected to a complete transformation, em- bodying many novel designs in adornment, and presenting the most unique idea in boxes anywhere to be seen. There are two tiers of boxes on each side of the proscenium, twelve in number, made of iron in the most artistic pattern of light open-work effects, so ar- ranged that they nowhere obstruct the view of occupants of' seats in other parts of the house, commanding a full view of the stage, and being richly gilded m gold, they lend a a charming effect to the picturesque study in gold, brass, tinting, and paper designs throughout the house. The arch and its double-point projection and girder are other evidences of the architect's skill and taste, the casts giving a mediaeval tone to the more modern accompaniments that make up the harmony of visionary pleasure. MAKING THE THEA.TEB SAFE. Though much has been done in the way of making the theater attractive, quite as much more has been done toward rendering it safe. The stage is supplied with a patent con- trivance by which that entire end of the the- ater can be at once converted into a flue with terrific draft. BO that a fire could, by the mere force of suction, be prevented from spreading into the auditorium. In addition to this there are all the regulation fire pre- cautions required by the authorities or sug- gested by the thoughtfulness of the manage- ment The exits are numerous and easily accessible, so that for beauty, comfort, and safety Hooley's should be more than ever re- garded as the Parlor Home of Comedy. GRAND OPERA HOUSE. THE HOUSE OF LIGHT OPEBA. In considering the experience of Mr. John A. Hamlin as a theatrical manager, there is presented before the immediate view three years of extraordinary and uninterrupted success. While it is true that Mr. Hamlin was for a long time previous to the opening of the Grand Opera House connected with one or another form of amusement enter- prise, in every undertaking demonstrating his shrewdness and ability as a financier, it is perhaps quite as true his great pride grows out of his prosperous relation to the beautiful house he now controls. And he has admirable reasons for making the distinction, inasmuch as his present position is evidence of his capability for coping with unfortuitous cir- cumstances, and proves the determination and spirit of a man who could surmount obstacles that would have dismayed many . 5'2 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. another, and could convert apparent dis- aster into substantial profit. Though he is now past the middle period of his years and can look back upon a busy life of mercantile care that began in his youth, h is yet young in management, and it is the hisrhest gratification to him to know that he has not only kept pace with the older man- agers but has succeeded in very nearly taking . THE LEAD IN LOCAL ENTEBPBISE8. Mr. Hamlin is peculiarly constituted, being at once a companionable, free-hearted, and rather jovial gentleman, and an exacting scrupulous man of business, and although th two qualities are often seen together in his intercourse with men they never conflict enter the great school of practical thing*, and. at the age of 21 had already acquired, a sub- stantial footing and gained a valuable busi- ness acquaintance. In a few years he got to- gether a comfortable capital for more ex- tensive operations. He believed that large success could only come of large undertak- ings, and he inaugurated a scheme wholly new then that soon made HIS NAME KNOWN THROUGHOUT THE COUNTBY. This was the manufacture and sale of a medicine to which he shrewdly gave the brand "Wizard Oil." because of its remark- able properties as a curative. Instead of settling down to the conservative methods of local trade to wait for slow-coming fortune, Mr. Hamlin built a number of elegant wag- ons of an elaborate and unique design, drawn by four and six splendid horses, furnished them with cabinet organs and sent them into all parts of the country accompanied by a- M'tf JOHN A. HAMLIN, Manager. one never getting into the proper place of the other. Those who have known him longest re- member these were always marked charac- teristics with him, and through their exer- cise he gained friends wherever he desired without ever losing the respect of men with whom he had business transactions. A nota- ble trait of moral nature with Mr. Hamlin is the high estimate he places on his pledgea He believes in the old virtue that a man's word should bind him no less than his written ob- ligation, and when Mr. Hamlin gives his as- surance of an act or office, in friendship or in business, he will make good the promise even at the sacrifice of his own personal interests. His career has been a varied one, for he be- gan his encounter with the world at an early age, and his sanguine, nervous temperament led him into adventures for financial gain that early taught him th principles since so successfully applied in all his undertakings. He began in Cincinnati, quitting college to regular concert company. The effect of this Napoleonic move was magical. Crowds thronged about these wagons in city or in town to enjoy the very excellent entertain- ment given and to purchase the wonderful fluid, the merits of which were expounded by expert lecturers, and Mr. Hamlin made an immense fortune in very short order. He had a clear perception of the ad- vantages afforded by Chicago for the invest- ment and accumulation of money, and bought property here very extensively. His business had grown so large that he took his brother into an interest with him and began to realize what it is to be a rich man. After the great fire of 1871 Mr. Ham- lin bought the famous site of the Bryan Hall, that had been converted into Hoo- ley's Theater, and erected what was then considered one of the most mag- nificent buildings in the city, and which is now one of the most desirable pieces of property in the commercial center. The principal floor was fitted up as a superb bill- iard hall, and was leased and run by the well- known Tom Foley, and became perhaps THE MOST POPULAR BESOBT IN CHICAGO. Mr. Hamlin, like many another rich man, felt the evil force of the panic of 1873, and CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 53 was seriously crippled in his business con- cerns, and for the first time in his life saw his plans go amiss. He was a man of too prolific resources to be dismayed by his losses, and immediately set about restoring his impaired fortune. He began by converting the billiard hall into a place of resort known as the Coli- seum, which at once became popular, and proved a money-making enterprise. But, after running the Coliseum for a time, Mr. Hamlin become dissatisfied with the sort of patronage the place attracted, and, though his in- come was very great and his expenses quite low, resolved to convert the building into a theater for a more respectable public. He instituted Hamlin's Theater, a cozy little house where dramaic spectacular, and vau- deville entertaniments were given. In the management of this house Mr. Ham- lin got the idea that he could establish a very different theater, and determined upon mak- ing a bold play for the lead in Chicago the- ater enterprises. He therfore announced the entire demolition of Hamlin's Theater, to make way for an opera house that should be the realization of artistic loveliness. Many discouragements were thrown in Mr. Ham- lin's way, and there were numerous croakers ready to predict the folly and certain failure of the project But Mr. Hamlin feels a confi- dence in the success of any undertaking to which he gives his personal endeavor, and he went resolutely ahead with hie plans, until in good season he opened to the public the most charming, beautiful, and exquisitely arranged theater then existing in the city. It was as bright and attractive as the others were gloomy and old-fashoned, eo that it not only became the talk of profes- ional people, but secured the immediate in- dorsement of the public and became the FAVORITE BESOET OP FASHIONABLE PATBONAGB. The house has continued for three years without any interruption of its enviable suc- cess, and Mr. Hamlin has had the extreme satisfaction of demonstrating his entire ca- pacity for first-class theatric managrnent and of triumphing over the opposition he en- countered on entering- the field of his present labors. The Grand Opera House has been made as nearly perfect in respect to convenience and public safety as it is possible to have such a building. One cannot conceive a catastrophe possible to this house, fortified as it is with a multiplicity of exits and armed underneath with a fire-wall that would absolutely pre- vent the spread of a fire from the stage to the auditorium. Every precaution against danger is observed, and "in some instances there have been wholly unnecessary steps taken to insure the welfare of an audience Though the theater is one of the prettiest and most enjoyable in the country, Mr. Ham- lin intends to further beautify and embellish it during the present year, so that by the opening of the next winter season it will be as new and beautiful to the eye as tte night three years ago when it was so auspiciously inaugurated by the Emma Abbott Opera Company. As its name implies, music is the specialty of the house, all the important light opera companies of the country having bookings here, for one reason, because Man- ager Hamlin cultivates that sort of attrac- tion, and for another reason, that the people prefer to sing in that house. But the at- tractions are by no means confined to opera, it being the aim to have the best standard attractions, be their line what it may, and the house is known for its choice. HAVERLV'S THEATER. IMPBOVEMENTS FOB THB NEW TEAR. Not only because that house is of most recent date, but because its story al- ready reaches out toward the future in a fashion at once distinct and in- teresting, an account of Haverly's Theater will serve most fittingly to close this articia It will not be necessary in this relation to more than refer to the old Adelpki and to Mr. Haverly's reign there as lessee. He gave his own name to the old house as long as the old house was there to be called by any name. vVhen the shadows of destruction had foregathered about it, and the stately outlines of the now First National Bank Building began to erect themselves into a solid intention, Mr. Haverly carried his name across Monroe street and bestowed it upon the structure which bears it now. The theater was a surprise to every one, even in Chicago, where celerity is a prevailing habit and Time has in most things been knocked out of time. The first stone was turned upon the ground on the 12th of June, 1881. Ninety days later on the 12th of September the new theater, completed at every point, was thrown open to the public. If the world can offer another case in which a permanent edifice of equal size, beauty, ana solidity was so well and so rapidly put together, this writer has yet to learn of it. THE HOUSE AND THE MEN. The house was built by General John B. Carson, of Quincy, 111., the General Manager of the Hannibal and St. Joseph Railwav. Im- mediate supervision of the work in all its details was confided to Mr. James D. Carson, his son. Mr. Oscar Cobb was the supervising architect. The first artists to appear upon the stage of the new theater were the comedians Rob- son and Crane, who played sir Andrew and Sir Toby in "The Twelfth Night." The vast auditorium was crowded to the very doors, and the success of the enterprise was assured from the moment of its submission to the public. There was but one opinion expressed, and that one was favorable if not enthusi- astic. The business of the theater has never been less than prosperous in even the dullest months of the year; and it is to be questioned whether an equal aggregate of receipts in the average of all months during the last two years could be shown by any theater in the world, saving the principal of those which are devoted exclusively to grand opera at high prices. The theater is admittedly the most popular in the city, and its conveniences include everything that up to the time of its erection was known to modern stage mechanism. It is the only theater in the city which has the Edison incandescent electric light in every department. This light is used on the entire stage, in thejdressing-rooms, auditorium, pri- vate boxes, foyer, vestibule, aud offices, while the f acad -. of the house is brilliantly illuminated by Edison arc lights. The theater is thus rendered perfectly free from the noxious odors of coal gas, and by an im- proved system of ventilation the atuios- HAVEKLY'S TUJfiAlJiJii. CHICAGO'S FIKST HALF CENTURY. 55 phere of the auditorium is kept perfectly pure, and therefore healthful. In addition to the largest and most com- fortable seating capacity, Haverly's Theater has twenty-one private boxe.s, all luxuriously furnished and commanding: a full view of the stage. Retiring-rooms and cloak-rooms for both ladies and gentlemen are con- nected with the foyer, and during the winter the house is thoroughly warmed by steam radiator. The main floor is on a level with Monroe street, and unlike any other South Side theater, occupants of the parquette and parquette circle and the private boxes have not a single step to climb. THE POLICY OF THE THEATEE having been a very liberal one, the best at- tractions before the public have sought it; and thus such great dramatic lights as Edwin Booth, Lester Wallack, John McCullough, T. W. Keene, and Mme. Janauschek, such distinguished organizations as the Union Square Company and the BrO)ksand Dickson Companies, and such operatic attractions as Mme. Adelina Patti, the McCaull, luff, and Grau comic opera companies, have all chosen to appear within its walls. The sensation caused by Mrs. Langtry, in social as well as theatrical cir- cles, demanded a theater equal to the occa- sion, and Haverly's Theater was chosen for her Chicago engagement. So in the case of Mr. Henry Irving and the Metropolitan Grand Opera Company, both under the management of Mr. Abbey, and both ( to ap pear at this house during the coming month. Enough has been said to indicate how greatly superior in every respect this the ater is to any similar edifice in Chicago, and how carefully and energetically the management of the house strives to live up to and by con- tinued effort continuously to deserve the popularity so quickly and so completely won. The public having shown so responsive an appreciation of all that has been done for their amusement and comfort in the con- struction and conduct of the house, the pres- ent lessee, in the feeling that the effort will be understood and approved, has determined to widen its province so as to include all art3 and all appliances that conduce to the best and most aesthetic tastes and pieasurea This intention involves a very distinct, even a bold departure from precedent; but it has been formed after sufficient consideration and in the full belief that a temple of dra- matic art is of all places the most fit and de- serving to be adorned with all that is beau- tiful in other arts; since to dramatic art it- self all others are contributiye, and by dra- matic art all others are heightened and in turn adorned. His theater will therefore be in as strong a way as possible a grouping point for all the rest. NEW IMPROVEMENTS PLANNED. To this end, with the close of tiie present season, the whole interior of the house will be changed to conform to new and practical ideas in theatrical architecture, which have been suggested and applied only within the last year. These improvements will extend not only to the stage, but to the auditorium, and while the interest of the public will be enlisted by charming innovations in the pres- entation of dramatic works, in so far as the stage dressing is concerned, it will also be directed to the contemplation of the most luxurious and beautiful auditorium in America The metamorphosis will be very thorough in every department The walls will be treated by a new process of construc- tion and decoration. The private boxes will 'be reconstructed on a more pleasing and artistic plan and furnished still more lux- uriously. The seats will be changed for seats of a pattern much superior. The foyer will be enlarged and two spacious RICE'S DEARBORN STREET THEATER, reception rooms will be added, each of which will be elaborately furnished nnd adorued with bric-a-brac, paintings, statuary, and rare boots and prints. These innovations should, and in every likelihood will, mark a point of new departure iu the history of Chicago theaters. That they will be greeted with pleasure and rewarded with substantial approval by citizens of all sorts and conditions may at even this distance of time be taken as a conclusion well foregone. CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. The work of beautifying the place will be made equally apparent in every tier, so that the patron of the top floor, as well as the patron of the higher-priced places, will find much that is entertaining, amusing', or in- structive to contemplate. The plans for this great change are nearly perfected. The work wiil commence about the 1st of Jane, and in the early autumn the doors of the theater will open to reveal a oplendor as well as a comfort that will amaze and delight those who are familiar with the piesent interior. Tne class of attractions to be presented during the next season will excel as a line anything known to even this most successful and prosperous of theaters. The present lessee of the building and pro- prietor of the theater, Mr. C. H. McConnell, President of the National Printing Company, is the gentleman to whom Chicago will be indebted for this elegant temple of art. No person who has visited the elegant offices of the National Printing Company will need any assurance of the refined taste which will characterize the theater in its new habili- ment The management of the house de- volves upon Mr. William J Davis. Mr. John 8. McConnell is the Treasurer, and Mr. George 8. Bowron musical director. THE ACADEMY OF MUSIC. DAN SHELBY'S SUCCESS. Wnen Mr. Daniel Shelby came here from Buffalo and took the lease of the Academy of Music, there were few who thought he could make a great success of the under- taking, because of his announced determina- tion to lift that theater into competition with those of the South Side. There were free predictions that he would very soon be glad to return to the smaller city and content himself with a more restricted field of man- agement Mr. Shelby is, however, one of those serenely decisive men who are rarely turned aside from their course by the ready evil auguries of others, and he set quietly about carrying his plans to a successful issue, the more resolved on triumphing for the opposition he encountered. He received the Academy as a variety theater with a fixed patronage of people whose tastes were on a level with the character of the entertain- ments. He was told that he must keep this clientelage or lose the money he advent- ured. He answered: "I intend to have a theater that the best people in town can feel safe in visiting." It required less time than two years to make this prophecy good. Mr. Shelby proved to be a shrewd, en- terprising, and conscientious manager. He first gained the respect and then the confi- dence of the community, and being already in possession of the good will and regard of professional people, managers, and actors throughout the country, he had scarcely any difficulty in prosperously establishing the house on the basis of a new policy. He be- gan bidding for the leading attractions among the combinations, and soon had a large number of first-class attractions booked for his house, and when it was found how thoroughly in earnest he was in an endeavor to elevate the tone of his theater, the public came admiringly to his support Mr. Shelby is to-day one of the most positively repre- sentative managers of Chicago, as he has fallen fully into the active, pushing spirit of the community, is liberal-hearted and open-handed in his business as he is in private, and never hesitates to make expenditures where he believes he is likely to please his patrons. He has beauti- fied the theater until it is a fit shrine for the noblest forms of dramatic art and delightful to the most refined taste. He has given the surroundings an inviting atmosphere, and can well claim to have as popular a theater and as genteel a class of patrons as any theater in the city. Mr. Shelby really is en- titled to the gratitude of the p'eople residing on the West bide for having been tiie leader in establishing in that part of the city a first- class cheater, and for having inspired others to emulate his example. Though his success has brought about some rivalry, prompting others to follow where he led, there is no fear that such a wide-awake, progressive and strategic manager will be seriously affected by any sort of honest competition. CHAPTER IV. HOTELS TO J3E PROUD OF. OUR HOTELS. THE OLD TIME TAVERNS. In no one feature is progressive Chicago better or more forcibly illustrated than In her hotels. Over on Milwaukee avenue, near Fulton street, stands a two-story frame building, not prepossessing in appearance either from the outside or within, and the saloon which takes up most of the ground floor is of such character to warn one fond of a social drink that he should go farther and fare better. There is nothing inviting about the place, and yet fifty years ago the people of Chicago were very proud of the building, and there was much talk about the new Green Tree Tavern about to be opened. S. B. Cobb, one of Chicago's millionaires to-day, came tramping into the city about that time, and, not finding an opening in his own line of business, engaged himself to the boss carpenter and helped nail the shingles on the roof of the new tavern, the first building put up in Chicago designed for a public house. POLITICS AT THE GBEEN TEEE. The Hon. John Wentworth was in the habit of strolling over the old flat bridge to spend an evening in the bar-room of the Green Tree with the genial proprietor, Ches- ter Ingersoli, and some of the "boys," who came in to talk politics, tell adventures, or read the papers from the East, which were perhaps a week or two old, but filled with news for the people of the frontier settle- ment John Gray, of Grayland, a beautiful Ohicago suburb, was at one time the jolly landlord at the Green Tree House, and when not kept busy with his guests sat in the door and shot wolves that came to carry away his young pigs at the barn across the street. The house when built stood at the corner of Lake and Canal streets, on the site now occupied by the building of the American Iron Works. Now it is in decay, but fifty years ago it was the new palace hotel of Chi- cago, and far outshone the taverns which had taken care of the visitors to Chicago. The old Kinzie House, even when it was the only white man's dwelling here, had its latch-string- always hanging out for strangers, and others who followed were just as hospit- able in ottering' entertainment When the settlement became larger the little log hut on Wolf Point, at the intersection of the two branches of the river, was opened as a tavern. FIBST LICENSED HOTEL. The County Commissioners of Peoria County granted Archibald Caldwell a license to keep a tavern there Dec. 8, 1829, and he was assessed to pay a tax of $8, and give a bond with security for $100. By this license he was allowea to charge the following rates: Cents. Each half-pint of wine, rum, or brandy 25^4 Each pint of wine, rum, or brandy 37% Each half- pint cin IS 1 ^ Each pint gin 31% Each gill of whisky 6*3 Each half-pint whisky 12 ^ Each pint whisky 18% Each breakfast, dinner, or supper 25 Each night's lodging 12*3 Keeping horse over night on grain and hay. . . 25 The same as above, 24 hours 37 X 4 Horse feed 12 In front of the door stood a tall pole, from which swung a sign and on this was painted a rude picture of a wolf, but the house re- ceived its name from the point of land on which it stood. It was at this house that General Scott made his headquarters when hs came to Chicago in 1832 to put down the Blackhawk disturbance. Elijah Wentworth had an inn on the West Side in 1830, which was probably the Wolf Point House. HUNO UP FOB THE NIGHT. The Miller House, wtiith stood on the other side of the North Branch, and was partly of logs and partly frame, was also opened as a tavern. Then came Mark Beaubien, in 1831, who opened a tavern in a small log house on the South Side,whichne called the Sauganash, in honor ot Billy Caldwell, chief of the Pot- tawatomies. It was in this little house where the jolly fiddler said he first filled his beds, then the floors, and afterward hung up his guests on nails and hooks on the walls. These were the hotels before 1833, when the Green Tree House was built. This sup- plied the want for a while, and then late in 1833 was commenced, on the northwest cor- ner of Lake and Dearborn streets, the first Trempnt House. It was a small wooden building, and could easily be placed in the reception room of the present Tremont House, and it would take two or three like it to fill the dining room. In 1836 this house was enlarged so as to accommodate fifty peo- ple, and in 1839 it was burned. John Went- 58 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. worth made this his home until it was burned. The old Sauganash kept by Mark Beaubien afterward took on another story and then changed its name to the City Hotel. MBS. MTJBPHY'S "BOYS." In 1836 John Murphy and his wife came to Chicago and opened the United States Sauga- nash. Mrs. Murphy is still living on the West Side, and is one of the sprightliest old ladies in Chicago. She speaks of the Hon. John Wentworth, S. B. Cobb, and a dozen other old citizens as "her boys." They boarded with her in these early days, and were always coming in late at night, getting into her pantry, which was next morning usually found to be empty, especially of pumpkin t)ies and cakes. In 1837 Mr. and Mrs. Murphy went to the West Side and opened the United States Ho- tel, which they kept for several years. Other early hotels were the Eagle House, at had been living in hotels where the whole house was not so large as this room. Jacob Eussell came from Middletown, Conn., to take charge of the house, and it was opened with great promise. But it was not in the line of the city's growth, and in a few years was a complete failure. The City Hotel was built on the northwest corner of Clark and Randolph streets in 1836 and 1837, and in 1844 became the Sherman House. The Western Hotel, built on West Eandolph street in 1834, it is claimed, was the first en- tire frame building put up in Chicago. It was built and kept by W. H. Stowe, and a part of the old house still stands at the corner of Randolph and Canal streets. THEN AND NOW. These were the hotels in Chicago before 1840. But since then there has been a change. The great need of the city in late years has THE WESTERN HOTEL. the corner of Canal and Madison streets, built in 183 6; the Mansion House, on Lake street, opposite where the Tremont now stands, built in 1835, and kept by Abram A. Markle; the Steamboat House, on North Water street, near Kinzie, kept in 1835 by John Davis; the Lake House, on the North Side, near the river, on Michigan street, finished in 1836. A MARVELOUS HOTEL. The opening of this house was another event in the early history of Chicago. The village had by this time outgrown the Green Tree House, and John H. Kinzie, Gurdon S. Hubbard, Captain David Huuter, and Major James B. Campbell built the Lake House, at an expense of over $90,000. It was opened in 1837, and was the marvel of the day. It was built of brick, and when finished there was nothing between it and the lake. The main entrance was on Michigan street, and nearly the whole of the first floor on the left was given to the reception parlor. The dining-room and bar-room, sixty feet long, was a wonderful room to the people, who been hotel accommodations for the great crowds of people who came here either for business or pleasure. The great fire swept the down town district clean, and when the hotels were to be rebuilt there was nothing of the old to be worked into the new. Thinking of the future, and calculating for the rapid growth of the city, the hotels were built on a grand scale that surprised the world, and called out criticism and pre- dictions cf utter failure. Millions of money was p"it into mammoth piles of iron and stone, and in a year or two after the fire the grandest and most magnificent hotels in the world were thrown open to the public. All the hotels ol Chicago In 1840 piled to- gether could be stowed away like so many trunks in any one of five large hotels now open, and the whole population of the city at that time could now be easily taken care of in these houses. The Wolf Point Tavern, the Miller House, and the Sauganash Hotel of 1832 could be set up in the news exchange of the Grand Pacific like so many relics, i nd the Green Tree and Western Hotels might CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. each occupy an end of the errand dining- room and leave as much space of marble flooring between as there then existed of prairie'grass. The Palmer House could have housed and fed General Scott's army, that came to fight Blackhawk and his Indians in 1832, and here also gathered in all the set- tlers of Northern Illinois, and protected them from the scalping-knife. HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS FOB A CITY. In this house, which cost more than $2,- 000,000. and contains more than 17,000,000 bricks, and covering an area of 72,500 square feet, one ol' the early settlers would get lost as easily as in a city. The hotels of Chicago to-day number 160, with an aggregate accommodation for 25,000 people. This is in addition to the large num- ber of large boarding-houses scattered throughout the residence portions of the city. And these hotels are always full of guests, having often to resort to cots to give accommodation. The city is acknowledged everywhere to be better able to take care of great crowds of people than any other on the continent with the exception of New York. At the time of the Republican National Con- vention, and again at the Knights Templar Triennial Conclave in 1880, there were 50,- 000 strangers in the city, and all were taken care of without trouble. During the Con- clave the Palmer House and Grand Pacific each had over 1,000 guests, and the Palmer one day dined 2,500 people. The Sherman, Tremout, and Leland were only a little way behind these. There has not only been a change in the size but in the appointment of the hotels in Chicago. The men who allowed Mark Beau- bien to hang them up for the night on hooks and nails, and those who slept on the floor of the bar-room and dining-room at the Green Tree, or went to the haymow if all other places were full, now want the very best of everything, and in Chicago they get it. They are not satisfied with a room, but must have a suite, with everything as com- plete as if they had spent a fortune in build- ing and furnishing a home of their own. THE PALMER HOUSE. ONLY FIRE-PROOF HOTEL IN THE COUNTRY. Chicago is famous for its public-spirited citizens, but there is no man who has done more to build up the city, and give it a reputation for push and enterprise, than Potter Palmer. Monuments of his energy and public-spiritedness can be seen in every direction, and any one of them would satisfy most ambitious men, but the Palmer House Is the greatest of them all. Wherever Chi- cago is known and where is it not wher- ever newspapers and travelers go to tell of the grandeur of the city ttiat has been raised from a swamp once, and then from the ashes, to be the finest in the world, the Palmer House is told of as one of its greatest orna- ments and most attractive institutions. It was only two months ago that the tenth anniversary of the completion and opening of this monstrous inn was fittingly com- memorated. Then gathered, as the guests of the Palmer House, the principal citizens ot Chicago, the Mayor, the Collector of Cus- toms, the Postmaster, the judges, and other prominent officials, State, Federal, and municipal, and several hundred private citi- zens, the leaders of commerce and trade, the bright lights of the bar, the pulpit, and other professions, to celebrate an EVENT OF WHICH THEY WERE PROUD. It was then that they realized more plainly than ever before the fact that Potter Palmer was wiser and farther-sighted than most ot his contemporaries, and that in the construc- tion of a hotel, which at the date it was erected was far ahead of its time, he builded better than they knew. Mr. Palmer had erected two hotels before, but both were destroyed by fire, and he de- termined this time to erect a building which "moth and rust could not corrupt" and which the hottest flames could not consume. The ashes of the great fire of 1871 had scarcely gotten cold before Mr. Palmer, with that^n- ergy for which he is famous, selected the finest location in Cnicago, and commenced the erection of a building which every one said would make him a bankrupt. An in- come of $200,000 a year had been swept away by the fire, and he had little but pluck and land left. It was then that the reputa- tion he had been acquiring in Chicago for twenty-five years became his capital, and while other rich men were sitting disconso- late in the ashes Mr. Palmer borrowed $1,- 500,000 and commenced, the erection of THE MODEL HOTEL OF THE WORLD. With Potter Palmer, to have anything, is to have the best, and although he undertook what most men called a hazardous venture, ten years have justified his faith and vindi- cated his judgment, for in building his hotel he constructed a mint, which has been pour- ing dollars into his lap ever since. While other hotels failed and dragged into- bankruptcy the men who managed them, the Palmer House has ever and always been a success. The reason is that Mr. Palmer re- alized what the people wanted, and gave it to them. The location he selected was the most advantageous for the purpose in Chi- cago, being convenient to both the wholesale and retail trade, to all of the street car lines, to all of the railroad depots, and to all of the places of amusement It is at the very focus of business, the heart of the city, and when one wants to describe the distance of any point to be reached he always says, "So many blocks from the Palmer House." Another reason why the hotel has been so successful and popular is that IT 18 ABSOLUTELY FIRE-PROOF. Soon after it was built an active dis- cussion was engaged in as to whether it was actually fire-proof. Mr. Palmer said that the underwriters might select any room in his house, build a fire in the center of the floor, of the fiercest combustibles they could find. lock the door, and go down to dinner with him. If the hotel burned or was injured he would stand all the loss, and give $10,000 to any charity that might be named. If the fire burned out without doing any damage ex- cept to carpet and furniture, they should give the same amount The underwriters looked the house over and decided not to ac- cept the test. The writer, who was a reporter for THE INTER OCEAN at that time, well re- members this discussion and the interest it caused. No other hotel in the world is so safe from 60 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTUEY. fire as the Palmer House, and the several hotel conflagrations at which so many lives were lost made it the stopping place for all the wise people who came to Chicago. SOME OTHEB ADVANTAGES. Another, and an equally successful advan- tage in hotel keeping, which was introduced at the Palmer House, and is still continued there, was the graded system of prices. A man does not have to pay $4. 50 per day for the privilege of stopping at a first-class, fire- proof hotel, and then take his chances of getting a poor room. He can select what- ever room he likes, and pay for it accord- ingly, take his meals where he chooses, at the restaurant, or the cafe, or, if he prefers, .at the houses of his friends, or eating-places about town; the price he would be charged at a third-class hotel, and There are two large passenger elevators, constructed with all the safety appliances, and made perfectly secure, which are kept running all the time, in addition to the usual number of stairways, so that the upper rooms are quite as accessible and convenient as those upon the lower floors. The Palmer is the only hotel in the city wnere the guests have a choice of the Euro- pean or the American plans, and they can take their meals in any one of the three magnificent dining-rooms on the parlor floor or in the Cafe or Restaurant on the office floor. The Restaurant, which is the most elegant in Chicago, and is not surpassed in the country, is an imperial apartment, circu- lar in form, and made of marble and mir- rors. It is the favorite resort of the fashion- able people of the city for lunches and PALMER HOUSE. advantages enjoyed by one or $10 a day, except in The dining-room is the same the only dif- of the room. In have all the -who pays $ the location of his room, .and the bill of fare for all guests, but ference is in the location all the requirements which go to make up a perfect hotel the Palmer House is complete, and there is none more elegantly and luxuri- ously furnished. A CITY IN ITSELF. When the hotel was first erected it con- tained only 400 rooms, but that number soon proved too few, and had to be increased, first to 500, then to 600, and now it is fre- quently impossible to accommodate the numerous patrons of the house in the 750 rooms belonging to this great hostelry. The house can accomodate 1,200 people comfort- ably, and several times as many as 2, 500 have taken their meals there in a single day. It is the largest hotel in the country with one excep- tion, and that is the Palace Hotel of San Francisco. Next year Mr. Palmer proposes to add another story, which will increase the number of rooms to 850, and furnish ac- commodations for 1,500 people. dinners, and for suppers after the theater or opera. The classes of guests a hotel entertains are the best index of its character, and those who go the Palmer House are men who know where to find the best accommodations. General Grant always makes it his home while in Chicago. The Marquis of Lome and the Princess Louise stopped here. President Diaz, of Mexico, the Corean embassy, and other distinguished people inscribe their autographs upon its register every day. It is not necessary to allude to the luxu- riance with which it is furnished, for that is a proverb the world over. The attendance Is always the best, the bills of fare are the finest o'ffered in the city, and the cooks can- not be surpassed in the country. Mr. Willis Howe, the managing partner, gives every detail his personal attention, and to his ability and energy the success of the hotel is largely due. THE GARDEN OF EDEN. FINEST BATH-EOOMS IN THE WOBLD. Attached to the Palmer House, and con- CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 61 necting with the main office, are the finest barber shop and the finest bath-rooms in the world. They are known as "The Garden of Eden" from the name Mr. W. S. Eden, the proprietor. There is no place of the kind on either continent fitted up with such magnifi- cence. The cost of the fixtures in the barber shop alone was $23,000, and of the bathing department, $30,000. The former, which is 40x100 feet in size, is furnished with mir- rors on every side and overhead, in which are reflected many times the burnished brass fixtures, the gilded columns and cornices, the marble walls and floors, the elegant plush and velvet sofas and chairs, the nicely dressed and silent knights of the brush and triumph of modern art and taste. Nothing like it has ever been attempted before, and it is a crowning triumph for its projectora THIS TREMONT HOUSE. THE PALACE HOTEL OF CHICAGO. The history of Chicago would not be com- plete without a reference to the Tremont House, the oldest, one of the most popular, and one of the most successful of the great hotels that are the pride of the city to-day. It was first established in 1833. the year that the city was incorporated. In 1840 it was en- larged and rebuilt. In 1849 the foundations were laid for a new house, which was built of brick, and opened in 1850, as the on'y really first-class hotel in Chicago. In 1861 razor, and the merry whisk of the sable artists who wield the broom, lu all, there are 200 square feet of mirrors, one being 100x150 inches, the largest in this country. The washstand, which cost $3,000, is com- posed of seven different colored costly mar- bles, and over it is a handsomely designed marble arch in which is a pyramid of elegant French clocks that are set to the time of different cities. The bathing department is a marvel. Every known bath can Se had. Marble floors, mar- ble baths, and marble scrubbing beds are everywhere. In the "Macerecure" room twenty different kinds of baths are furnished. In one room is a diving tank, 15x50, with a depth of 51% feet. The "needle" shower bath, with its million sprays, cyost $1,000. Tim Russian and Turkish bath-rooms are fit- ted up in the highest style of perfection, and throughout the whole department nothing is wanting to make it the most consummate HUUbE. it was remodeled and stood until the great fire swept everything away. The present magnificent structure, erected on the old site, is in the minds of many the handsomest building in Chicago. The present building stands at the corner of Lake and Dearborn streets. It is in the cen- tral business district, and therefore the most convenient for merchants who come to Chi- cago to trade. It is six stories high, of beau- tifully carved Amherst sand stone, and in de- sign and construction has no superior for the purpose for which it was erected in America or in the world. The offices and parlors are finished and furnished in a style that could not be surpassed, and the chambers are as luxurious as can be found in any private palace in the city, each having hot ana cold water, marble man- tels, grates, etc., all perfectly lighted and ventilated from the street or the central court, furnished with solid black walnut and 62 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. velvet, or polished rosewood with satin dra- peries and carpets matching or contrasting tastefully. Especial attention has been given to sewer connections and drainage the arrangement of traps and otherwise perfect plan of plumbing successfully guard the hotel from all noxious gases, giving absolute security against malaiia in any form from the usual auses. A shaft 120 feet high, 4x5 feet area, heated, into which are led ducts, taking the foul air, if any, from every department, out of and above the building, completes the system of ventilation, and as a result the Tremont excels in the purity of its atmos- phere, being free from the pernicious odors always found with less considerate construc- tion. Tt-pre are four stairways from the base- ment to the top of the house, and two ele- vators for the use of guests, affording easy access to all stories, and ample egress in case of alarm from any cause. The building is practically fire proof, being constructed with all modern means for pro- tection from damage by that element Stand- ing waterpipes, with thirty openings, having hose attached of sufficient length to flood with water every room and corridor, con- nected with a stationary steam engine, the floors all laid with cement, the partitions ^filled in with brick, preventing any possibil- ity of fire spreading in case of accident, and there have been placed in the halls of the house gongs, rung by electricity, as an alarm in case of fire, under control of the office, and will be set going instantly on the slightest alarm, and continue to ring. This ringing, with the system of calling each .room by watchmen stationed on the floors. Insures the speediest alarm to guests it is possible to give in case of accident. There are red lanterns in each hall, show- ing the stairways, and at the end of every corridor outside the building are iron-ladder fire escapes to the ground. From the roof and the three stores be'ow it there is access to the tops of adjoining build- ings, making a way of escape over the roofs, from Dearborn to State street, a full block, giving security to guests no other hotel can offer. There are ample accommodation for 800 guests in a first-class, unequaled way, and although located so conveniently in the busi- est quarter of the city, central to all the great depots, the banks, wholesale stores, and places of elegant shopping and amusements, it is yet most quiet and homelike, Thie management of the proprietors, John A. Rice & Co. , is liberal, and the scale of rates per diem is lower than ever before made for equal accommodations, on the American plan. The house is regarded as the most pleasant and comfortable hotel home for the tourist and resident guest in Chicago, and no effort of expense or personal attention is spared to maintain the high reputation which has already won for the enterpise the pride and admiration of our citizens and the world of travelers. The elegant barber-shop connected with the Tremont House is managed by Mr. W. S. Eden, who also has the Garden of Eden at the Palmer. GRAND PACIFIC HOTEL. THE HEADQUARTERS OF STATESMEN. If a newspaper reporter or a citizen wants to nnd traveling statesmn he goes to the Grand Pacific Hotel, for it is there they al - ways stop. Mine host Drake has entertained more famous men than any landlord of his generation, and within the walls of the great palace over which he presides have been lodged and banqueted all the great men of the generation. It was here that President Arthur stopped during his recent visit to Chicago, and while he was attending the Na- tional Convention in 1880. It was here that General Garfield was when nominated for President, and here his first reception was held.. All the Senators, Congressmen, Cabinet officers, and other dignitaries make the Grand Pacific Hotel their rendezvous while in Chicago. It is also the headquarters of the railroad managers, and in one of its club-rooms their frequent gatherings are held. Mr Vander- bilt and Jay GoukTalways stop here when in Chicago, and all men whose taste leads them to select the beat that can be had. Patti, the famous cantatrice; Nilsson, Gerster Kellogg, Albani. and all the famous artistes make it their home during the opera seasons. It is the stopping place of princes and dukes and earls when they visit us, and the list of famous people could be lengthened out to fill columns. Scarcely a day passes but some man or woman of worldwide fame writes his or her name upon the register, which bears the autographs of kings, emperors, and presi- dents. The Grand Pacific is not only a great public ornament, and one of the sights rural visit- ors go to see, but it is kept in a manner that makes the people of Chicago proud of the house and its proprietors. All the great ban- quets are given here, and they are given on a scale that eclipses anything ever seen in the West. The Bar Association chose it as the proper, and, in fact, the only place at which Lord Coleridge could be entertained in a man- ner consonant with his dignity and fame. It was with rare foresight and judgment that the hotel was located, for when its foundations were laid, it stood upon the ex- treme limit of the business district of the city, and thoughtless people said it was a foolish thing to place so noble a structure so far from the center of trade. But time and the growth of Chicago has demonstrated the wisdom of its projectors, for it is now in the most convenient and accessible locality. The Postoffice and Custom House have since been placed across the street in one direction, and the new Board of Trade, one of the finest buildings in the land, stands opposite in an- other. It will soon be the center of the new commercial district, for around it are being erected the finest blocks and business houses in Chicago. It is the nearest first-class hotel, to the three great depots of the city. It is conveniently located to the places of amusement and otner attractions for which Chicago is famous. In convenience of loca- tion, in the luxuriousness of its apartments in the elegance of its table, its splendid service, and in all the whys and wherefores that go to make up the attrac- tions and advantages of a hotel, it stands pre-eminent, and there is no place in the world where a traveler can secure such com- forts, such style, and such attractions for the prices that are charged. The senior proprietor, Mr. John B. Drake, who has kept a hotel here ever since Chicago is a city, and' whose name is familiar to the traveling public, gives the affairs of the house his personal attention, and is scarcely absent a day during the entire year, but remains in CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. G3 the house looking after the comfort of his guests, greeting them upon their arrival, and bidding- them farewell upon their departure, with a cordial courtesy that they always re- member. His partners, Mr. Turner and Mr. Parker, are gentlemen well-known to the traveling public, as hosts of the highest order, and the gentlemanly corps of assistants are always attentive and polite. THE SHERMAN HOUSE. AN HOTEL WITH A EEPUTATION. The history of Chicago could not be accu- rately written without a reference to the his- torical Sherman House and its proprietor, J. Irving Pearce, one of the oldest and best- known hotel men in Chicago, who kept the Adams House, at the corner of Lake street and Michigan avenue, when the place where the new Board of Trade now stands was a cow pasture. Mr. Pearce was for many years President of the Third National Bank of Chicago, but be- came proprietor of the Sherman House a little more than a year ago, and is now giving his whole time to the hotel business. Since he be- came proprietor, he has put entirely new furniture throughout the house, and it is now not surpassed by any hotel in the coun- try foi the attractions "and advantages it offers to tne traveler. Its rooms are larger and more convenient than those of any other hotel in the country and are luxuriously fur- nished. The location, at the corner of Clark and Randolph streets, opposite the Court House, is in the exact center of the business district of the city, and within a block of the Beard of Trade and telegraph offices. The ticket offices of all the railroads are immediately under or around the Sherman House, and it is within two minutes' walk of the principal theaters. ICELAND HOTEL. THE BEST LOCATION IN THE CITY. The Leland Hotel, owned and kept by War- ren Leland, a member of that famous iamilv of landlords whose name is a synonym for a well-kept house, is noted and conspicuous for several things. In the first place it occupies the best location of any hotel in the United States, and one that is not surpassed in the world. Just on the edge of the wholesale and retail districts of the city, on the Grand Boulevard of Michigan avenue, across from the Lake Front Park it overlooks the lake, and furnishes a delightful summer resort as well as a cozy and comfortable winter home. The fashionable driveway of Chicago passes its doors, and it is a rare sight to witness from the Leland windows the beautiful equipages and their handsomely dressed oc- cupants who are continually passing and re- passing. In tne second place, it is quiet, aristocratic, and luxurious in all its appointments. It caters only to the best classes of people, and the fact that one stops at the Leland is almost a certificate of high character and reputation. The house is sought as a resi- dea^e br sini oxjrjiiab prino33 as John V. Farwell, and such lawyers and statesmen as Emery A. Storrs. General Schoneld, who has recently succeeded General Sheridan in command of the Department of the Mis- souri, resides here with his staff, and all the army officers make it their headquarters when in Chicago. It is free from the noise and confusion that make the larger hotels so uncomfortable, and Mr. Leland's guests find as much quiet, ar much comfort, and as much luxury as can be had at the mansion of a millionaire on Prairie avenue. In the third place, it is one of the best-kept houses in the land. The rooms are elegantly furnished, and the dust and smoke that choked the occupants of other houses do not invade its windows. Its caterer seeks the best markets and its cook is famous. The bill of fare is a model, and its dinners are sought by men who wish something bet- ter than can be elsewhere obtained. As a family hotel, or a stopping-place for ladies traveling alone, the Leland can be recom- mended, for there is no hotel in the country so famous for the courtesy and attention paid to its guests. The reputation of Mr. Leland as a proprie- tor is enough to make the hotel noted, and it may be said that although it has passed through the hands of several people since it was erected and christened the Gardner House, after the fire, it was never a success until he took hold of it. THE CIAFJTON HOUSE. A COZY AND COMFORTABLE HOTEL. For those who want a cozy and comfortable house, without the noise and confusion that cannot be avoided at the larger hotels, we cordially recommend the Clifton House, one of the neatest, nicest, and most luxurious hostelries in the country. Here everything is quiet, genteel, and aristocratic, and the proprietors pride themselves upon the high character of the people who make the Clif- ton their stopping place. It is situated at the corner of Monroe street and Wabash avenue, just at the edge of the wholesale district, and is surrounded by the finest retail estab- lishments in the city. It was reopened a little more than a year ago by Messrs. Wood- cock and Loring, formerly of the Matteson House, and was then newly furnished throughout. THE ATLANTIC HOTEL, BY W. P. F. MK8EBVE, is a structure of marble, containing 150 rooms, situated on Van Buren street, oppo- site the Lake Shore and Rock Island Depot, and only half a block from the Postoffice ana new Board of Trade Building. It furnishes first-class accommodations for $2 per day. W. P. F. Meserve is the proprietor. MUNGER'S LAUNDRY. THE BEST IN THE COUNTKY. Confessedly at the head of the laundry in- terests, not only of Chicago but of the entire United States and Canada, stands the firm of G. M. Munger & Co. , whose headquarters are established at Nos. 1345 and 1347 Wabash avenue. Within a few years this former un- important calling has grown to a gigantic in- dustry, in which large capital is invested, and which furnishes profitable employment to CHICAGO'S FIEST HALF CENTUBY. thousands of men and women who now look to it for support Something concerning the acknowledged leaders in this department of business, their methods and establishments, cannot fail to interest such readers of the trade review as hold to the doctrine that "cleanliness is next to godliness" among the Christian virtues The brothers who comprise the firm are three in number. Mr. G. M. Hunger, the sen- ior member, came to Chicago in 1868, and was subsequently joined by his younger brothers, who are now associated with him. Soon after Mr. Hunger's arrival here he purchased a smaH laundry, which was then established at No. 53 Washington street The business thus secured increased so rapidly xinder his skillful management that the confined quar- ters in which he found himself were soon in- adequate to its requirements, amd about two years later he moved into a more com- modious building in the rear of Nos. 87 and and 89 on the same street, and opened a receiving and delivery omce at No. 86 Dearborn street, in the old Postoffice building. The new es- tablishment had just been placed in com- plete working order, and a season of genuine prosperity appeared to be opening before the young laundryman, when the great fire oc- curred and swept away in a night all of his tangible assets. But before the smoldering embers were cool Hunger had his plans ma- tured for the future, and by the time the burned out Chicagoans had skirmished round and procured something in the shape of garments to wash, he was ready to wash them in a new laundry on Lake avenue, near Thirty-ninth street In the spring of 1872 the firm had in a measure recovered from its losses, and opened a commodious establish- ment in the Hemlock block, at' the corner of LaSalle and Michigan streets, where it re- mained until it removed into its present quarters on \V abash avenue. The building now occupied by the brothers at the above ocation is 50x150 feet, and is wholly de- voted to laundry purposes. To describe it, together with the processes and machinery in use, -would exceed the prescribed limits of a trade review article. Suffice it to say, that the building is simply complete in all its ap- pointments, and is fully equipped with what- ever is latest and most perfect in the way of laundry machinery. In this connection it may be mentioned that Mr. G. M. Hunger, while neither a mechanic nor an inventor, has frequently improved upon and perfected the crude ideas of others, and may be fairly considered as the real originator of many of the labor- saving processes which he uses. In 1881 the orothers started their West End Laundry at No. 523 West Madison street This proved to be such a pronounced success that two years later they felt justified in pur- chasing, at an expense of $15,000, the prop- erty Nos 518 and 520 on the same busy thoroughfare, and erecting thereon, at a fur- ther expense of $25,000, a building to ac- commodate their West Side business. The West End Laundry, while not the largest, is said to be the most perfectly appointed es- tablishment of the kind in the United States. and is frequently visited by laundry propri- etors from other parts of the country in pur- euit of "pointers." It is under the personal supervision of Mr. L. L Blackman, who has abundantly proved by his management of it his business ability. In 1882, G. M. Hunger & Co. started a laundry at Des Moines, Iowa, which, like all their other ventures, has proved eminently successful. The latest scheme in which the Messrs. Hunger have engaged is marked by the foresight and energy which are char- acteristic of the men. They have recently purchased a handsome property on Wash- ington avenue, St. Louis, upon which they are now erecting another monster laundry,, which will be a credit to that beautiful city and to themselves. It will have as large a business capacity as that on Wabash avenue. The Hessrs. Hunger have six receiving 1 and delivery offices in this city; their business is enormous and rapidly increasing; their reputation as sagacious, honorable men is without a blot, and the great establishments which they conduct with such ability are among the prominent objects of industrial interest in Chicago. GURNET PHAETON AND CAB CO. CHEAP AND STYLISH LOCOMOTION. Every citizen of Chicago must necessarily be interested in the company above named. The business in which they are engaged fills a need long felt in Chicago, and this has been signified by the active patronage the com- pany have enjoyed since last spring, when it first commenced businesa The company has been incorporated under the laws of the State with a capital of $150,000. Mr. Smith Niles is President, Hr. A. G. Ashley Sec- retary and Treasurer, and Mr. L. B. Stark- weather Superintendent The business of this company is to carry people from point to point in the city at a very low rate of fare. The vehicles used are neat and tasty and afford a comfortable ride, and are without doubt the most complete and comfortable two-wheeled vehicle in usa The rates are seventy-five cents per hour for one or two persons, and $1 per hour for three or four persons, and twenty-five cents per mile for one person. The popu arity of this mode of conveyance will be seen when we state that thirty Gurneys are now in use, and that there is business constantly for many more. Fully 150 will be in use by this company within the next year. The vehicles cost about $500 each, and as yet the company have not been able to get them manufactured as fast as they have been wanted. These Gurneys are manufactured under patents, and the company above named have bought the right to use them in Cook County. It is only within a period of nineteen months that these vehicles have been introduced in this country. This company are aoout to erect a large barn for the use of their stock, which will be finished in May and will ac- commodate 300 horses. CHAPTER 7. THE ROME OF RAILROADS. THEY ALL LEAD TO CHICAGO. THE PIEST TRACK LAID. In this city, where railroads center with enough track to twice belt the globe, it is not only wonderful and instructive but it is also amusing to look back to the time when the people were disposed to look with doubt upon these great agents of civilization, and were afraid they would destroy the trade of Chicago. It was always a superstition with the peo- ple of olden time that every new invention or idea had its origin with the devil, and the people who had the courage to push forward such new ideas and inventions were perse- cuted as witches, or persons of unclean spints possessed of devils. This was no more fallacious than the idea that took possession of the retail merchants of Chicago, when they bent their energiet to defeat the first railroad scheme for fear is would destroy their trade. AFBAID OF THE SPIBITS OP WIND AND WATEB. The old superstition of the Chinese, who were afraid to offend the spirits of wind and water by building a railroad, was not more ridiculous than the fear of early Chicagoans that the building of a railroad from here to Galena would take away their retail trade, which was then the only boast of the town. Instead of taking from Chicago her retail trade the railroads have made the place the great center of the wholesale trade in the West, and have given her that prominence over all other places, to which she never could have attained without the miles of iron track, reaching out like so many arteries from the heart, over which course tne pulses of trade, as measured by the metropolis. With only the marine ad- vantages of the lake it is doubtful if Chi- cago could have outstripped her rivals St. Louis and Cincinnati on their magnificent river routes, but with the railroad systems of the Northwest, all beginning here, and con- necting with the trunk lines to the East, there was no longer any question as to where would be located the trade center. BArLBOAD PBOPHKST. It is curious to note that the first prophesy of Chicago as a railroad center was by a young soldier stationed at Fort Dearborn in 1830, and his prophesy was for a road over a line which has become one of the most im- portant in linking the West and the East to- gether. This railroad prophet was Lieutenant John G. Furman, of the Fifth Infantry, United States army. He was at Fort Dearborn for several years, and enjoyed the hunting on the prairies and the fishing in the lake and river so much that, June 13, 1830, he wrote to a magazine published in Baltimore, urging the editor, who was his friend, to come out and join him. In that year there was only twenty-three miles of railroad in the coun- try, and not a rail laid west of the Alleghany Mountains, The few miles in the East was only an experiment, and yet the young sol- dier who believed in Chicago spoke of his friend coming West as though the Baltimore and Ohio 1 toad hud already been built through to Chicago, and only awaited a formal opening. He said: "When the railroad is finished be- tween Baltimore and the Boot Biver perhaps you may be induced to come out and take a week's sport with us, or if you cannot spare the time we must try and pack up some of our good things in ice and send on a locomo- tive steam-propelling car. " IT IS FULFILLED. Lieutenant Furman's prophecy has long ago been fulfilled, and now there is nothing easier than to pack up good things in ice in Chi- cago and send them to suffering humanity down in Baltimore. But one of the most curious things in Chi- cago's railroad history is that it was a begin- ning point, rather than a terminal, and yet it was not considered so important as the little mining town way up in the northwestern corner of tne State, which was the terminal point When tne charter for the old Galena and Chicago Union Kailroad was granted by the Legislature, Jan. 16, 1836 before Chicago was yet in- corporated as a city there was so little thought of Chicago's chances to become a great city that, while backed by Chicago cap- ital and pushed by Chicago men, influence enough could not'be brought to bear upon the Legislature to induce it to grant the charter until the name had been switched around with the engine in tte rear, and, in- stead of the Chicago and Galena Koad, it had to be called the Galena and Chicago Road. WISE MEN MADE FOOLS. The wise men who controlled the destinies of the State of Illinois in those days were so possessed with the Western idea that they went to the furthermost point of their terri- tory to find the railroad Mecca, and believed that Galena was of much more importance 66 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. than Chicago. It might have been then, with its lead mines and its river route, but the change was out another of the Chicago sur- prises -which have played such an important part in her history. The primary incentive to the incorporation of this road was the advancement of real estate prices in Chicasro. Its capital stock was $100,000. with power to increase it to $1,000,000. It was optional with the com- pany to make portions of it, with branches of the same, a toll-road, to be operated either with horse or steam power. William Bennett, Thomas Drummond (now Judge of the United States Circuit Court), J. C. Goodhue, Peter Semple, J. M. Turner, and J. B. Thomp- son, Jr. , were authorized as commissioners to receive subscriptions to the stock. Their charter allowed three years from its date as the limit of the time in which work on it should be commenced, to comply with which provision the company commenced the ques- tionable enterprise in 1838. THE FIBST BOAD. This was a road from the West Side, and, as the whole broad prairie, now occu- pied by the most populous division of Chi- cago, was then a great slough, and in the spring of the year a veritable lake, on which one might row from the river to Oak Park a place better fitted for steamboat travel than for railroading the first prob- lem was how to get a foundation for a road. There was a popular superstition with the people that this slough had no bot- tom, or, at least, none that could be reached with any practicable length of support for tressle. Piles were resorted to with longi- tudinal stringers to secure support from one to another. In this way the work of building the road was begun along Madison street It did not progress far, however, and was abandoned, and no more attempts made until 1846, when William B. Ogden, John Turner, and Stephen F. Gale purchased the charter from Messrs. Townsend and Mather, of New York, who, up to this time, held it with the assets of the company. They were to pay $10,000 in stock down, and $10,000 on the comple- tion of the road to the Fox River. A pre- liminarv survey was made, and the work put in charge of Richard P. Morgan. It was at this juncture that the opposition made its appearance, because of the fear that the road would injure the retail trade of Chicago. It was feared that by quick and easy transfers the farmers would find their goods delivered to them nearer home, and Chicago would cease to be a trade center, as it was fast be- coming. NEW LIFE AND THE BESUT/T. But through the efforts of Benjamin W. Raymond and John B. Turner in negotiating loans in New York, and the reluctant home subscriptions to the stock, the road was finally completed to Cottage Hill, a distance of sixteen miles, in December, 1849. The road-bed was not good, and the track con- sisted of wooden stringers faced with strap iron. It was Chicago's first railroad, and its opening was an important event, despite the fact tbat the company had to bring old and worn-out rolling stock from the East. The engine was one of the first pattern, and the cars were of the most primitive order. It was not until three years later, May 21, 1852, that Chicago had any Eastern railway connection. The Michigan Southern Road, begun in 1837, and the Michigan Central, be- gun in 1842, were sharp rivals in the enter- prise of reaching Chicago, and work was pushed with all the rapidity possible oy both roads. The cars of the Michigan Central ran into Chicago May 21, and those of the Michi- gan Southern the day following. Both were greeted with shouts of welcome by the peo- ple, who had then learned to look upon the railroad in its proper light, as a stimulant of prosperity. THE BOME OF KATLBOADS. The other railroads now centering in Chi- cago followed in a few years after these first efforts, and to-day it is appropriately called the Rome of Railroads. In place of the rickety strap-iron Galena and Chicago Road, we have the great Chicago and Northwestern with its nearly 5,000 miles of track thread- ing all parts of the Northwestern States and Territories, and instead of the old wornout rolling-stock brought from the East for the first road, there are mammoth locomotives and solid trains of magnificent parlor, sleep- ing, and dining cars, while one might as well attempt to number the cattle on the plains as to count the freight cars that carry the great wealth of products from the garden of the Nation to the store-house of the world. As its great rival for this Northwestern trade comes the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Road, with 4,400 miles of iron binding the States of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Da- kota to Chicago as their metropolis. To the West reaches the 4,000 miles of the Chicago. Burlington and Quincy, and almost as many miles of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific, laying out the States of Illinois, Iowa. Ne- braska, and the Territories beyond in garden plats, and the Southwest is held in a firm grasp by the 6,000 miles of the Wabash sys- tem, and St. Louis made a suburban station. SECBET OF NATIONAL BECONSTBUCTION. The South is more firmly united to the North by the band of steel "from Chicago to New Orleans, which forms the Illinois Central system, than by the laws that force her to remain in the Union. Instead of Chicago belonging to Hoosier- dom or the Old Dominion, as was once boasted, these localities now belong to Chi- cago by the right of her furnishing a market for their hooppoles and rye whisky, as well as all other products, and transportation over the Monon route, the Eastern Illinois, West- ern Indiana, and Panhandle Roads. To New York Chicago is a twin sister, as in- separably united by the iron ligament of the eight trunk lines of railroads as were the Siamese twins by their natural bond of con- junction. Of the total 122,813 miles of railroad in the United States to-day, there are roads representing 40.792 centering in Chicago, fully one-third, and making it the greatest railroad center in the world. THE nxrNOIS CENTRA!,. TO THE SUNNY SOUTH. The Illinois Central Railroad has been one of the most important factors in the devel- opment of Chicago and the West It was one of the first roads built, and has been the commercial backbone of Illinois, making its products maiketable. and increasing its growth and wealth. It now covers fifteen degrees of latitude, and connects Chicago with the Missouri River and the Gulf of Mexico. It is the only road that has an unbroken, direct line to the South, and makes a journey CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF UKUTUBI. to the land of perpetual summer agreeable, safe and speedy. Through cars of the most lux- urious pattern run to all the desirable resorts sought by winter tourists, and the journey offers attractions that cannot be found else- where. The completion of the Pensacola and At- lantic Railway gives a through line from Chi- cago to Jacksonville, Fla., by way of New Orleans, and permits the tourist to visit all of the popular resorts on the Gulf coast The advantages of this line to invalids cannot be overestimated. The connections for Texas and California are such as to offer the best winter route, the line being always free from snow and ice and cold, and the fare is as low as by any other road. By going this way the traveler has the opportunity of visiting New Orleans, Galveston, and other Southern cities, and is within easy reach of the charm- ing city of Monterey, tLa most fa- mous and popular watering place in Old Mexico. When this resort, with its magnificent hotels and medicinal hot springs becomes better known in the North, it will be as fashionable a residence in winter as Sara- toga is in summer. San Antonio, Austin. Galyeston, and Hous- ton, Texas, are made the objective points for no less than twelve routes, via New Orleans going, and via either the Missouri Pacific or Iron Mountain routes and St. Louis return- ing, or vice versa Havana, Cuba, and Hot Springs and Eureka Spring's, Art , are also excursion points. Exceedingly low rates are given on round trip tickets to Chicago and all the above points, good to return until June 1. During 1883 extensive improvements have been made in the Illinois Central plant The motive power has been substantially in- creased; the passenger and freight equip- ments have received handsome additions; new double-track iron bridges have been placed across the Calumet and Chicago Elvers. New passenger and freight depots have been built at South Chicago, Seventy-ninth street, Jeffery avenue, and in Jackson. Winona, and Wesson. Miss. A double-track branch to South Chicago, four and a half miles long, has been completed; the middle division has been extended from Colfax to Bloomington, twenty miles; ana spur lines, aggregating 130 miles in length, leading into the timber and farms lands of Mississippi, are rapidly approaching completion, a portion of the distance being already open for traffic. The Illinois Central was the first railroad to introduce suburban trains, having com- menced running them as early as 1856. To its management is due the development and growth of the beautiful suburbs south of the city, as its frequent trains made them even more accessible than some of the resident portions of Chicago that are reached only by the street cars. Upward of three million people are carried annually upon these sub- urban trains, and the number that go to South Park and Pullman sometimes reaches thousands per day. THE "MONON ROUTE." THE LOUISVILLE, NEW ALBANY AND CHICAGO BAILWAT THE GBEAT SOUTHEBN BOUTE. Scarcely two years have elapsed since the opening of the Monon Eoute officially known as the Louisville, New Albany and Chicago Bail way into Chicago, connecting- the giea.t Northwest with Louisville and the South and Southeast Recalling the exorbi- tant rates, slow time, vexatious delays, and numerous changes in dingy coaches that at- tended a trip to Louisville and the South of a few years ago, the business man and tour- ist alike appreciated the advantages of the Monon Route, with its solid trains and Pull- mas palace sleepers, its reasonable rates, its fast time, its smooth tracks, and its cour- teous officials. Being the only line to Louisville from Chicago under one manage- ment, it offered to its patrons accomodations that no other line could and gained the good- will of the public at the start by its low and reasonable rates. Gaining friends daily by service and splendid equipment, supple- mented by fair dealing, the Monon Route to- day is one of the most popular lines, both with the tourist whose journey South is at- tended with every pleasure and comfort Eossible, and the merchant who finds that y this road only can h ship his wares to the Ohio River without change or delay. The traveling man. knowing the COMFOBTS OF A SOLID TBATN AND PULLMAM BUFFET SLEEPEBS and the finest only are run via Monon will take no other line to Louisville. To the Monon Route belongs the credit of introducing the first and only Pullman sleep- ing-car line through from Chicago to Jack- sonville without change, and is still the only route by which Pullman car service is se- cured via Louisville to Florida. The route is characteristically a tourist line, leading from the South to the cool resorts of the Northwest in summer, and from the chilly blasts of the North to the balmy breezes of a mild South in winter. The time was, and not two years ago, when a trip from Chicago to Florida or the Gulf resorts was a slow and tedious under- taking, attended by so many annoyances tfiat few had the courage to make it. Now, thanks to the Monon Route, a trip to Southern resorts is a pleasure in itself. It is a specialty with the route, whose line of single and round- trip tickets includes every resort in the South or Northwest. Their system of through checking is perfect, the baggage going on the same train with passengers to destination. The main line of the Louisville, New Albany and Chicago Rail- way extends from Louisville to Michigan City, adistance of 288 miles, passing through some of the oldest settled and MOST PBOSPEBOUS POBTIONS OF INDIANA, among the towns being noted Salem. Orleans, Mitchell, Bedford, Bloomington, Gosport, Greencastle, Crawfordsvilie, and La- fayette. The scenery along the route is pleasing and interesting, soothing with its constant and easy changes rather than startling with its suddenness and abrupt- ness. In the midst of the hills about Or- leans are found several delightful springs, notably West Baden and French Lick Springs, which, on account of the curative waters, picturesque location, and fine hotels, have become popular resorts. The Air Line Division of the road extends from Chicago to Indianapolis, and is eleven miles shorter than any other to the Hoosier capital, the distance' from Chicago being- 183 miles. The Monon Route proper is via the Air Line to Monon and thence to Louisville, the through 68 CHICAGO'S FIEST HATVF CENTURY. trains running that way. Similar trains with THROUGH COACHES FOB LOUISVILLE run from Michig-an City to Indianapolis via Monon. The Air Line was not formally opened from Chicago to Indianapolis till last October, when two daily trains were put on. Six weeks later an arrangement was made with the Cincinnati, Hamilton and Dayton Eailroad and the Air Line trains now run solid to Cin- cinnati through Indianapolis. Like the Louis- ville line, parlor cars are attached to the day trains and Pullman palace sleepers to the night trains. Monon, where the main and Air .Lines cross, is eighty- five miles from Chicago. The name is derived from "Melamonon," an Indian title of a stream near by, which in olden times was no doubt a swift-running river, as the meaning of the word is "waters running swift." Very properly the word Monon was adopted for the route, and it is a SWIFT-RUNNING ROUTE. By the opening of this Cincinnati line, the Monon Route now offers its patrons a choice of routes to Florida and the South via Louis- ville, Cincinnati, or Indianapolis, direct con- nections being made with all through routes below the Ohio Eiyer. Briefly, there is not a point of interest in the South or Southeast which cannot b reached by the Monon Route, and only by that route can passengers get Pullman car service via Louisville or Cincinnati. The general offices of the company are at Louisville, the "Capital of Hospitality," as designated by a well-known writer. It is not surprising then that this company should display the same liberal spirit in its manage- ment, and that it should win popularity thereby. Colonel E. B. Stahlman, Vice-Presi- dent of the company, has, by his rare execu- tive ability as Traffic Manger, been a valua- ble aid to Colonel Bennett H Young, the President and General Manager. Ac the head of the passenger department, Mr. Murray Keller has won a national reputation as a suc- cessful General Passenger and Ticket Agent In fact, the POPULARITY OF THE MONON EOUTE may, in a large measure, be attributed to him. Colonel Sidney B. Jones, the Gen- eral Traveling Passenger Agent, whose headquarters are in Chicago, is a thoroughly experienced railroad man and a perfect gentleman. His assistant, Captain J. L. Whelan, is a graduate from THE INTER OCEAN reportorial ranks, and as Northwest- ern Passenger Agent maintains his reputa- tion. Mr. E. O. McCormick. City Ticket Agent, 122 Randolph street, has the routes and rates at his fingers' ends, and, like the others, has a store of information of the South which he distributes freely. For maps, time-tables, books on Florida and the South call on or ad- dress any of the above at 122 Randolph street and receive that prompt attention for which the Monon Route is noted. No other route makes such time, and offers such rates and accommodations as the Monon Route to the South. CHICAGO, BURLINGTON AND QUINCY. STRETCHING OVER THE GREAT WEST. Like all large Western institutions of mag- nitude, the extensive railroad system known as the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Road had a small beginning, but grew with, or more properly caused to grow with it, the We.st Its origin is found in two roads, now considered small by comparison, but at the time their charters were granted then re- garded as vast and important On Feb. 12, 1849, a railroad company was organized in Illinois under the name of the Aurora Branch Railway Company. In June, 1852, the Chicago and Aurora Railroad Com- pany obtained its charter and immediately proceeded to lay its track be- tween Chicago and Aurora. The Cen- tral Military Tract Railroad Company owned the road between Mendota and Gales- burg, and in 1856, just after the Chicago and Aurora Company had completed its line of track, these two roads consolidated. The company thus formed adopted the name of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad Company. From this grew the road which covers so extensive an area. Small at the start, it now runs and controls over 4,000 miles of track distributed throughout Illinois, Iowa, Mis- souri, Nebraska, Kansas, and Colorado. About one-half of this mileage is in Illinois and Iowa. It is happy in the possession of five routes. The most important is its own through line via Pacific Junction and Plattsmouth to Denver. The other routes are: Through Omaha via Cheyenne, over the Union Pacific; through Quincy, to Kansas City or Atchison, via the Hannibal and St Joe, thence resuming the Burlington route proper; through Kansas City, via Topeka, over the Union Pacific, and through either Atchison or Kansas City, via the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe. whose cars run via Pueblo, and thence over the Denver and Rio Grande. Passengers have choice of above routes in going to San Francisco, or may go via the Santa Fe and Southern Pacific line, or via El Paso over the Gould roads and the Southern Pacific. Other favorite lines of the Burlington and connections are as follows: St Louis, Rock Island, and St. Paul; St Louis, Burlington, and St. Paul; Chicago, Freeport, Dubuque, and Sioux City; Chicago, Hannibal, and Texas; Chicago and Des Moines. The completion of the Denver and Rio Grande Road from Denver to Ogden during the past year further extends and makes more complete lines of travel offered by the Burlington. This arrangement gives the Burlington what is practically its own line to Ogden, the road from Denver winding through the finest scenery of the West. The equipment of the road is elegant, and comfort is combined with safety and rapid travel. CHICAGO, ROCK ISLAND AND PACIFIC. THE MODEL LINE. The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Road, which was the first to connect Chicago with the Mississippi River, thus making more ac- cessible the thriving cities along the Fathe r of Waters, was begun in 1852. In 1847 a company was formed under the name of the Rock Island and LaSalle Railroad Company, and procured its charter in the same year Good management has been characteristic of the road since its opening, and the alert managers have been in continual readiness CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 69 to make every advantageous extension and acquisition. In 1851, by an act of the Legis- lature, the name was changed to the Bock Island Company, and it was under that name that the road was constructed be- tween Chicago and Rock Island. In 1866 the road consolidated with another in Iowa called the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Road, and as its termini and connections were such as to warrant the managers in adopting the name of the road with which it consolidated, this was done. It has been known by that name ever since. At the time the charter was granted Illinois was a border State, Iowa being a territory, but since the border line has been moved further West, and the territories are now States whose products find an accessible outlet in Coi- cago. 'i'he causes which produced the changes of the past thirty years are numerous, but prob- ably none figures more prominently than claimed, will result in an increase in the already large suburban travel. The road is well equipped throughout, and by means of its coaches, sleeping, and dining cars, sup- plies all the comforts known to travel. CHICAGO AND NORTHWESTERN. FOUB GREAT TBUNK LINES. The history of the Chicago and Northwest- ern Road is one of consolidation, and for the most part combined in that of the old Galena and Chicago Union Road, which is the real pioneer line. The old Galena and Chicago Union Road was chartered in 1836. 'A panic followed in the footsteps of the charter, which delayed further operations until 1847, eleven years later, when the first rail was put down. This was done on what is known as the Galena Division, or the Freeport line. CHICAGO AND ROCK ISLAND DEPOT. the railroad in question, one of the pioneer roads of the West It has contributed vastly to the development of both Illinois and Iowa. Its reward has been a world-wide reputation and bountiful earnings. There is probably no railway in the West which earns a greater revenue in proportion to its mileage. It is the great central line from Chicago to the West, passing through the most fertile por- tions of Illinois and Iowa, and forming con- nections which make it a through line to the Pacific coast. It reaches the most thriving of the cities in Iowa and Kansas. A few years ago the management, not content with business coming over the road extending to the West, opened up what is known as the Albert Lea Route. This route, which is jjuite a favorite with tourists, and which does an extensive freight business, extends through the great Red Biver Valley, and the great Northern Pacific country in Minnesota and Dakota. It reaches to Minneapolis and St. Paul, and renders accessible the beautiful scenery of Minnesota and the Upper Mississippi. It is also used as a means of transporting a large percentage of the traffic between the East and Manitoba. The year which closed yes- terday has witnessed the beginning of ' the new Board of Trade Building, just opposite the depot of the road in this city, which, it is In 1853 the line from Chicago to Freeport, a distance of 121 miles, was completed, and there are many people now residing in Ste- phen son County who remember with what pleasure the completion of the line was hailed, as previous to that time a trip to Chi- cago and return, lasting frequently for two weeks, was necessary in order to dispose of products. The Illinois Central Road, which passes through Free- port to Galena, enabled the road to extend its operations to the lead mines at Galena, This road was absorbed by the Chicago and North western Road in 1864. In 1854, ten years prior to this consolida- tion, the Chicago and Northwestern Road constructed the line which connects Chicago and Milwaukee. While this road enters Chi- cago upon three distinct lines of rail, it may be said to have five principal lines all ter- minating in Chicago, the first of which is the one extending to Milwaukee. This line skirts the lake shore, and now reaches the Michigan peninsula. The second extends in a northwesterly di- rection, and touching Beloit, Madison, and Elroy, reaches St. Paul and Minneap- olis. The third line extends west from Elroy, crosses the Mississippi at 70 CHICAGO'S iTJLBHT HAUF (JJLNTTJKI. Winona, Minn., and extends across Minne- sota and Dakota on a direct line to the Black Hills. From Tracy the road extends further on to Watertown and Redfield. From Huron, on the main line, a branch extends north up the James River Valley to Columbia, D. T. The fourth line runs from Chicago directly west across Illinois and Iowa, terminating 1 at Council Bluffs. The fifth line begins at Tama, 142 miles west of the Missouri Hi ver, and extends in a general northwesterly di- rection to Hawarden, on the Big Sioux Dur- ing the year just ended a bridge has been placed over the river and the road extended into Dakota to a junction with the Dakota Central. In addition to these main lines there are a number of profitable branches. By connection with the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis and Omaha Road it has the ad- vantage of two important lines to Lake Su- perior ports and tapping the pine region of Upper Wisconsin. The mileage of the North- western system, including the Omaha line, aggregates about 5,000 milea ATLANTIC AND PACIFIC RALLROAD. ALL-THE-YEAB-ABOUND BOUTE TO OALIFOBinA. Last September was opened a new line to California, which was dubbed the "All-the- year-around" route, and which, when travel- ers find out its attractions, will have a popu- larity that none of the transcontinental roads have ever achieved, and be preferred to any other for many reasons. It is the At- lantic and Pacific Railway, which connects with the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Road at Albuquerque, and is the only line running Pullman sleeping-cars from St. Louis and Kansas City to San Francisco without change. The road is located upon the thirty- fifth parallel of latitude, and passen- gers thus avoid the snow blockades and alkali plains of the North, and Che barren and duoty desert* of the South. It is and always will be the favorite route to the Pacific coast for the invalid, the tourist, the sportsman, and all to whom speed, comfort, safety, delightful climate, and wonderful scenery are attractions. It IB the shortest and the best route to San Fran- cisco, Sacramento, Los Angeles, San Diego, and other Pacific coast points. Prescott, and the mining camps of Northern, Central, and Western Arizona are now reached direct by this line without long and tedious staging. The most remarkable scenery in theworll is along the line ot the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad. It crosses the Colorado River at the foot of the Grand Canon, which has been the subject of several descriptive letters in THE INTEB OCEAN, and is acknowledged to be the grandest and most sublime natural spectacle on the face of the globe. The canon is reached by stage from Leach Springs, after a ride of eighteen miles, ard the tourist will find admirable accommoda- tions for his entertainment. Ths ancient and curious Indian villages of Zuni, Moquis, Acoma, and'Laguna are reached by this road, the trains passing within a stone's throw of the latter place, which is many centuries old, and inhabited by the de- scendants of the Aztecs. Remarkable ruins of the cave and cliff dwellers are found near Flagstaff Station, and possess a deep interest not only to the scientific world, but to all who visit these abodes of half-civilized nations extinct for centuries. The Atlantic and Pacific is the most attractive route to the Yosemite Valley, and the big trees of Mariposa County, California. The company has 20,000,000 acres of the finest grazing land in the world for sale, in New Mexico and Arizona For maps, rates, and other information apply to F. W. Smith, General Superintendent; C. R Williams, General Freight and Passenger Agent; or J. A. Williamson, Land Commissioner, Albu- quarque, New Mexico. CHAPTEB VI. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. A HISTORICAL CHAPTEB. THI OLD AND THE NEW BUILDINGS. The Board of Trade in Chicago has not been a dictator but a leader; the business has always centered around the Chamber of Commerce, and right well has it deserved such a recognition. When, for the first years of its existence, the board had its home down on Water street, near the river, that was the business center of Chicago, but when the First Baptist Church resigned the corner of Washington and LaSalle streets to the Chamber of Commerce, the quiet residence neighborhood there changed to the great trade center, and blocks of fine business houses went up there to accommodate the great army of business men who wanted to be near the heart of trade, that they might ever feel its pulse nearest the life source. But Chicago did not always have a Chamber of Commerce about which to center her trade. It was not until the spring of 1848 the merchants began to make application of the old adage that "in union there is strength." The city about that time began to be noticed as a commercial center, and the merchants deemed it for their common inter- est to organize a Board of Trade. What the special object had in view was, or whether there was any special object, does not appear from any of the records left FIRST ORGANIZATION. But It is certain that in April, 1848, there was such a board organized and eighty-two members enrolled. These men represented the commercial interests of a city of 20,000 inhabitants. It was before the completion of any rail- road to Chicago or the construction of the canal, and the only means of communicating with the interior and the West was by the slow stage coach and the slower "prairie schooner," but the location of the city at the head of the great chain of lakes predestined it to be a trade center. At first the board was a voluntary organ- ization, bub in 1850 it became incorporated under a general law of the State, and in 1859 a special act of incorporation was obtained from the Legislature, which has since re- mained the basis of organization. Its general object, as expressed in the pre- amble to its Rules and By-laws, are: "To maintain a commercial exchange; to pro- mote uniformity in the customs and usages of merchants; to inculcate principles of justice and equity in trade; to facilitate the speedy adjustment of business disputes; to acquire and disseminate valuable commer- cial and economic information; and gen- erally, to secure to its members the benefit of co-operation in the furtherance of their legitimate pursuits." REVERSES AND STAGNATION. The enthusiasm which organized the first Board of Trade did not continue long, and in 1851 the membership had dwindled to forty, and there was very little business transacted. Then the merchants began to take fresh in- terest, and in 1859 there were 520 members. It has continued to increase rapidly ever since, until it has reached nearly 2,000, and is there practically restricted. The board began with a member's fee of $5, but a membership ticket is now held at , $10,000. This is not regarded as the real value, but is the price put upon new mem- berships as a restriction upon further in- crease. Membership tickets already held are only valued at about one-third that amount, or $3,500, and are frequently sold for that figure. In its early days the board was migratory, changing its quarters as the city changed. Its first home was a room in the third story of a building at the foot of LaSalle street No elevator carried the merchants and com- mission man up to this room, and they were obliged to climb two narrow and steep stair- ways. In 1860 a building was erected for the use of the board on Fifth avenue, near the bridge, but the business so rapidly in- creased that in 1863 the question of enlarged accommodations again began to be discussed, and in February, 1864, a building association was organized, with a capital stock of $500,- 000, and the Chamber of Commerce char- tered. The Board of Trade contracted to lease the building for a term of ninety-nine years, at a rental of $20,000 per annum, and in less than twenty years they have abandoned the build- ing and site for want of room. THE BOARD IN THE FIRE. The new building was first occupied in August, 1865, the membership at that time being over 1,400. At that time the Chamber THE NEW CHAMBER OF CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 73 of Commerce* was by far the largest and finest building 1 in the country used for that purpose. In 1871 this temple of trade was swept away by the fire, but before the great con- flagration had been checked in its course the members who nad lost all came together and out of nothing began to do business again. A room on Franklin street was secured and the Board of Trade there opened, not for speculation, but for the noble purpose of aid- ing" those who were only less fortunate than themselves in losing their courage. When the help from all over the country began to come in, the board took possession and dis- tributed these things as they were most needed. Then they turned their attention to business, and from Oct. 9, the day of the tire, to Oct. 31 the receipts of grain* aggregated over 3,750.000 bushels, notwithstanding the ability to care for such a business had been greatly impaired. Among the first official acts of the board was the determination to reoccupy its old quarters, and the Chamber of Commerce was rebuilt, but in more magnificent style, and in just one year, Oct. 9, 1872. was re-opened. Until now this beautiful and substantial building has served as a home for the organ- ization, and trades aggregating millions have been made there every day. In Exchange Hall have been witnessed some of the wildest scenes that ever tran- spired in the commercial world, and fortunes have been made and lost in a few hours. THE NEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. But for several years there has been a need for more commodious quarters, and another removal was arranged. The corner-stone of the new Chamber of Commerce was laid with appropriate ceremonies Dec. 13. 1882, and since then the walls of the magnificent build- ing have gone up with marvelous rapidity, but this new temple of trade is on such a grand scale that it will be another year be- fore it is brought to completion and ready for the machinery of commerce. The new building, of which a cut is here given, fronts on Jackson street and extends back to Van Buren, occupying the full width of the block between Sherman street and Pacific avenue. It will have a frontage of 175 feet and 225 feet in depth. It is in the modern Gothic style, built of Fox Island granite. The grand tower is 32 feet front, and is to be 300 feet high, the masonry ex- tending 225 feet and toe remaining 75 feet of iron. At the height of 225 feet there will be a clock dial on each of the four sides of the tower, twelve feet in diameter. A MAGNIFICENT TEMPLE. All the external entrances to the building will have large prominent doors, finished with polished red granite square columns. The external ornamentation is to be on a scale never before equaled in the city, and this will be one of the finest buildings used for commercial purposes in the world, cost- ng$ 1,500. 000. One of the brightest pages in the history of the Board of Trade was the unwavering support it gave the country in the hour of its greatest need. The echo of the first gun awoke the loyal sons of the Board of Trade, and they rallied for the defense. Grain and pork and beef and stocks were forgotten for the flag, and the "boys on 'Change" showed that they could fight with the same enthusi- asm and with the same recklessness that they could buy on the market. Three regiments of infantry and a battery of artillery were organized and equipped by the Board of Trade, who kept watch over them during their service of three years. They were allowed to want for nothing that money could buy. The board also raised $150,000 to help on the cause of the Union. Secretary Randolph, in speaking of the board, with which he has been connected in an official capacity for so many years, says: "That the men composing this 'body are, in general, possessed of unusual business ability, are remarkable for their quick per- ception of business possibilities, and are of untirinir devotion to business affairs, will perhaps be freely conceded by all acquainted with tfteir habits and modes of conducting those affairs ; the best indications of their true manhood, however, are to be found in their generous treatment of the unfortunate, whether of their own numbers or of dis- tressed humanity throughout the world." TRANSACTIONS IN THE MILLIONS. As an estimate of the business done on the Board of Trade, it may be noted tnat the clearings alone amount to more than $2,- 000.000 a week. As this is but a small per cent of the transactions, the actual business of the board amounts to millions of dollars every day. Last year there was shipped from Chicago $90,388,000 worth of flour and grain, $100,- 939,000 worth of live stock, $117,592,000 worth of meats, lard, tallow, and dressed hogs.$l 1. 1 14,000 worth of butter and cheese, $24,778,000 worth of wool and hides, $9,- 358,000 worth of seeds and broom corn, $2,451,000 worth of distilled spirits, not in- cluding the tax, and $9,924,000 worth of miscellaneous products, making 1 a grand total of $372,544,000 worth of products from this market, and all passed through the hands of these merchants and commission men on the Board of Trade. But this does not begin to give an estimate of the business transactions which take place there. The wheat, corn, and other products are often sold and resold a dozen times in one day, and not only is business done by the 2,000 men on the floor, but many of them are acting as agents for men throughout the whole country. There is no place in the world where so much of this kind of business is done, and Chicago by right is called the trade center. li. EVEK1NGHAM & CO. COMMISSION MERCHANT& There are few commission houses whose business career has been so uniformly suc- cessful and who are so well known for their financial strength and reliability as to be representative houses, and among those who take the front rank in this regard is the house of L. Everingham & Co., whose offices, 125 LaSalle street, adjoin the Board of Trade. This firm point witn pride to a record for upright and honorable dealing, from the establishment of the firm in 1805 to the present tune, and their fidelity to tnose who have intrusted business to them has resulted in a constantly increasing volume of busi- ness. From the first they pledged themselves to the prosecution of a strict and legitimate commission business, having no joint a<- counts, an- 1 engaging in no speculations for their own account, hence their judgmeut has been unbiased by investments 'of their own, and their large list of successful customers 74 CHICAGO'S FIEST HALF CENTUEY. are always sure of their undivided attention and personal interest. Their facilities for obtaining the latest and most accurate reports of the crops of the country are unequaled, which, together with their special letters indicating the course of the markets, have proved to be correct in numberless cases. Their order department is complete in all of its details, and is kept separate and dis- tinct from the receiving department. The execution of orders for the purchase and sale of grain and provisions on the Chi- cago Board of Trade for future delivery, on margins, is a specialty, and the promptness and faithful manner with which such orders are filled is most gratifying and satisfactory to their customers. The selling of consignments by sample in also a speciality, and all items of expense in the sale and delivery of shipments and tne weight and inspection of grain are carefully supervised, and the interests of the shipper are thus protected in every possible way. Their carefully prepared special letters as to what quality and kind of grain will strike a good market are greatly appreciated, and are highly valued by those who consign their shipments to them. Their remarkably correct crop reports and their special letters regarding the course of the markets, are freely furnished upon re- quest WrLUAM C. DUEIX & CO. YOUNG BUT ENTERPBISrXG. While one of the young firms on the Board of Trade Messrs. Duell & Co. have from the commencement of their business career oc- cupied a prominent position among Chicago commission men, and have earned a reputa- tion for enterprise, sound judgment, and financial skill of which many old-established concerns might feel proud. It is by no means uncommon in this city to find men under 30 successfully managing large and important mercantile or manufac- turing interests. The young man who pos- sesses industry, tact, and determination, to- gether with integrity and correct personal habits, may, with a fair show of good luck, pass rapidly to the front in this metrropolis of the Northwest, without as a rule incurring the ill will or envy of less fort- unate men who have been longer in gaining the goal of their ambition. But while the truth of the foregoing remarks is fre- quently proved by the rapid preferment of the young men of exeeptionably good ability who naturally gravitate to Chicago, where that class are always in demand, the success of Mr. W. C. Duell has been so pronounced as to be justly regarded as phenomenal since he came here at 18 years of age in 1875 to make his way and acquire a fortune with- out the accessories of influence or capital to assist him. He had, to be sure, the advantages of a lib- eral education, and upon arriving in Chicago was so fortunate as to secure a po- sition with one of the largest receiving firms on the Board of Trade. In that employ he mastered the details of the business to which he has subsequently devoted his ener- gies with sach nattering results, and when he started on his own account about three years ago, he not only carried with him the good wishes of his whilom employers and other leading commission firms with which he had been brought in contact, but the generous prediction that he was enter- ing upon an eminently successful career. The prediction has been more than verified; the young house not only immediately took a leading place, but has sus- tained it through all the vicissitudes of temporary business depression "corners," etc. i Mr. Duell is now less than 27 years old, and at the head of a firm doing a large and constantly extending business a firm which from present indications will have few rivals to fear in the future. He is a pleasant, unassuming gentleman in his office, keen, incisive, self-relient, and prompt to act when on 'Change. Mr. Duell is a member of the regular Board of Trade, the Open Board, the Call Board, and of the Stock Exchange, in all of which he is a con- spicuous figure, and has abundantly proven his ability to hold his own. His specialty is deals for future delivery, and it i not ad- vidious to say that no member of tha Board of Trade more entirely comprehends the market and how to take advantage of it. The firm does business at No. 22 Chamber of Commerce. A REPRESENTATIVE HOUSE. CHAKLES E. CULVEB & CO. There are connected with the Board of Trade, as with the dry goods, the hardware, and other interests of this city, a few repre- sentative firms, which appear to stand as the embodiment of whatever is commercially above reproach, and as so, beyond the shadow ot a doubt, financially, that the most malicious of critics never attempt to advertise their mendacity by attempting 1 to malign them. In the foremost rank of these representative commercial houses of Chicago the commission firm of Culver !), OOO 48.728.955 Banks outside of the Clearinsr House are understood to have about $11,000,000 deposita The decline in deposits as given above was due to the low average of country deposits. The interior bankers having employment for their funds at home were borrowe'rs in- stead of creditors of their city correspondents, and the large excess of loans this year was mainly due to heavy rediscounts for into- 78 CHICAGO'S FERST llALF CENTURY. nor bankers. In addition to the capital and surplus given above, six banks outside of the Clearing House report an aggregate capital of $1,735,000. It is also estimated that other private bankers who decline to make re- turns employ a capital of $1,500,000, mak- ing a TOTAT, AGGREGATE BANKING CAPITAL. 1,000,000 of which has been adaTecf by learing House banks since their last report of $23,152,000. This, however, doas not fully represent the capital employed in banking, as the Cana- dian banks Having offices here are at liberty to use ten times the amount of capital they return to the Clearing 1 House, the latter merely being the amount with which they are chiarged as fixed capital by the banks they represent Within the year one National bank has opened with a capital of $2,000,000. It is creditable to the managers of Chicago banks that * failures have occurred since 1877. Chicago bankers handle more foreign exchange than all other Western cities combined. Nearly All the foreign bills drawn by millers and provision dealers in the Northwest and West are sold here, and the business of the year just closing shows a very material gain in this department of finance. Chicago banks also supply the bulk of the Eastern exchange made in the West, and in t^rn supply bank- ers in all other cities, including Cincinnati, Toledo, and St. Louis, when they are short of Eastern bills. The transactions in this line of banking have been materially in excess of 1882, or any preceding year. THE PRICE FOE BANKERS' DRAFTS on New York exchange has also been at or above par for a large portion of the year. During only a few brief periods has the dis- count been sufficiently large to permit funds to be brought from them by express. This was due. as above stated, to the he heavy de- mand from other Western cities. The miscellaneous business of the banks has also been unusually large, their discount lines sho-vlng an expansion commensurate with other departments, and no other branch of business has been so uniformily satisfac- tory to those conducting it. Every bank of consequence has earned dividends, ranging from 10 to 15 per cent, besides ad- ding a liberal balance to their surplus on un- divided profits, and every institution of prominence has found it necessary to em- plov additional clerical force, and a number were compelled to enlarge their offices. The clearings for the year show an increase of $159,086,139 over 1882, being the largest on record, and $800,938,000 over 1880. Manager Smith, of tne bankers' Clearing House, estimates that the establishment of a similar institution BY THE BOARD OF TRADE for the settlement of balances on transac- tions on 'Change has lessened the bank clear- ings at least $$2,500,000 per week, com- pared with the old system, as one check now settles a large number of trades. Under the old system of settling such trades half a dozen checks, and not unfrequently twice that number, were given for the same property. Hence. the doubling up process largely swelled the clearings at the banks. It will therefore be seen that the present bank clearings more clearly reflect the volume of legitimate busi- ness than those of any previous year wita which comparisons are made. The expansion of the city's commercial and financial transactions during the past years is partly reflected by the report of the Chicago Clearing House, furnished by its efficient manager, W. S. Smith, Esq., which is as follows: COMPARATIVE CLEARINGS. The following shows the clearings from 1865 to 1883, inclusive: 1865 (nine months) ............. $31 9, 606,000. OO 1866 ............................ 453,798,648.11 1867 ............................ 580,727,331.43 1868 ............................ 723. 293, 144. al 1869 .......................... 734.664,949.91 1870 ............................ 810,676.036.28 1871 ............................ 868,936.754.20 1872 ............... ............. 993.060,503.^7 1873 ............................ 1,047.027,828.33 1874 .................. ; ......... 1,101.347.948.41 1875 ............................ 1,212,817,207.54 1876 ............................ i,ojo,09-_'.i;-_'i.:;7 ,,_._. 1877 .......................... 1,044,678.475.70 1878 ............................ 967.1K4.093.07 1879 ............................ 1,257,756,124.31 1880 ............................ 1, 725,684, 894.85 1881 ............................ 2,229,097,450.60 1882 ............................ 2,366,536,855.00 1883 ........................... 2,525,622.944.00 STOCKS AND BONDS. The business in stocks and bonds for the year was the largest of any previous one in the West and is constantly growing. The sales of railroad and miscellaneous bonds on the Chicago Stock Exchange aggregated $9,- 100,000, and in railroad and other stocks 57, 500 shares. There was also a large amount of bonds handled by the banks, the majority of which were not reported to the Exchange, and were nearly equal to that amount. THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK. THE THIRD IN THE COUNTRY. There are a few Chicago institutions of which all Chicagoans are pardonably proud because they illustrate the marvelous growth of the most wonderful city which marks the culmination of the genius of the nineteenth century. At the present time this city is nothing in the esti- mation of its citizens unless it is the acknowl- edged queen of the commercial world, con- sequently no man or institution is held in much esteem unless he, or it, has established the right to a position in the front rank. The occasion of the annual review is au- spicious to mention the great banking house, which is an honor to this city, which aspires and has secured a cosmopolitan reputation. The banking house is a concomitant of civ- ilization. The savage or the frontiersman has no need of it. When a people have ad- vanced from a barter to a money basis of financial transaction, the banking house be- comes not only a convenience, but a ne- cessity, and just in proportion as the hamlet throws off the rural and as- sumes the city character the bank is transformed from a little broker's shop to the palatial repository of millions. Two hundred years ago Chicago needed no bank, and had none ; twenty years aero Chicago was a city, and required good banking facilities. At the latter date the First National Bank was established, with a capital of $300,000, with E. Aiken as President, Samuel Nicker- son as Vice President, E. E. Braisted as Cashier. In 1882 Chicago was a metropolis, CHICAGO'S FIBST HALF CENTUBY. and the First National Bank was recharted, with a capital of $3,000,000, with Samuel Nickerson President, and Lyman J. Gage as Cashier. The first President of this great financial institution held his office until his death, which occurred in 1867, when he was succeeded by the present incumbent In 1868 Mr. Gage assumed the duties of Cashier, and has discharged them ever since in a manner which has not only been entirely satisfactory to the giant corporation he serves, but has made him a prominent fig- ure among Chicago financiers, and known by name the world over. This corporation moved into its present magnificent quarters in November, 1882. The banking office proper is said to be the largest and finest in the world. It is at all events as elegant as variegated murble and carved oak can make it, and with its clerical force, ninety-five in number, all in sight and busy over books of accounts, or in counting piles of gold, silver, and currency, it reminds one irresistibly of some wild tale of the Arabian romances. But with all this displav everything is severely practical. The First National Bank has reason to feel proud of the officers to whom have been intrusted its interests from first to last. They are gentle- men with whom slander never meddles, and who are never assailed by the tongue of re- proach. PKESTON, KEAN & CO. LEADING PKIVATE BANKING HOUSE. This leading private banking-house was established in 1860, and for three and twenty years has been earning a reputation for safely keeping and judiciously investing the money of others which is second to that of no financial concern in the West. This firm safely survived the great fire and the several panics and periods of business de- pression which swept away so many con- cerns; and its record is such as to fully war- rant the confidence its clients have always reposed in it, and the belief that it can fully discharge any financial trust placed in it. In their banking department Messrs. Preston, Kean & Co. offer as liberal terms for the accounts of bankers, merchants, and others as is compatible with business princi- ples. In their foreign exchange department they issue bills on all tne principal European cities, and also letters of credit for the con- venience of travelers. The house makes collections in all parts of the world, and is specially peculiar for its promptness in this line of its business. The firm is probably the oldest one in the West in the line of investment securities. It was connected with the first government loan issued for the prosecution of the recent civil war, and has been largelv instrumental in placing every subsequent loan, ana it is admirably prepared to serve the interest of investors in this connection. The firm are also large dealers in bonds issued by States, counties, cities, etc. . often buying and selling entire issues of cities for municipal purposes, in some single transac- tions amounting to several hundreds of thou- sands of dollars. They also deal in railroad bonds of the leading trunk lines. It has for some years, made a specialty of Chicagor Car Trusts, which certificates run from thee months to seven years, draw 6 per cent interest, payable quarterly. By some of the best Illinois lawyers they are regarded as being exempt from taxation. The certificates are not only the direct ob- ligatin of the road issuing, but are also se- cured by the rolling stockT The bank does not undertake any specu- lative business. The remarkable success with which this banking-house has been attended since its inception can be laid to no other source than the financial skill of its management. CHARLES HENROTIN. PRESIDENT OF THE STOCK EXCHANGE. This gentleman has been so intimately associated with the Chicago Stock Exchange ever since its organization that the mention of one invariably suggests the other. Mr. Henrotin is now serving his second term ah President of the Stock Exchange, a position which he has filled with marked ability and to the entire satisfaction of the members of this important corporation. He has been thirty-seven years in Chicago, and has always enjoyed a high reputation and exceptionably for integrity and good business tact. Indeed, Mr. Henrotin is one of our best and shrewdest financiers. He is a leading banker and broker, and as he was for years the cashier of one of the lead- ing banking houses in the West it is almost unnecessary to add that he has had just the experience which fits him for the successful prosecution of the business in which he is engaged buying and selling of bonds, stocks, commercial paper, and safe-investment se- curities. He is one of our few financial operators who always has on hand a full line of choice securities from which customers can select, or, if they please to leave the se- lection to him, they will discover that they have confided their interests to an honorable and competent gentleman. Mr. Henrotin is now, and for years has been, the govern- ment representative, as consul, of Belgium and Turkey at this port. He is a ripe scholar as well as an accomplished banker, and is ad- mirably fitted for the important official posi- tion he holds. ITHJE NATIONAL, BANK OF ILLINOIS, GBANNIS BLOCK, is one of the strongest and soundest financial establishments in the country. It has a paid- up capital of $1,000,000, and is probably do- ing as safe, and, at the same time, as profita- ble a business as any bank in Chicago. Its facilities for transacting business, domestic or foreign, are simply perfect, or as nearly so as is compatible with human infirmities. The officers of this excellent concern are George Schneider, President; William H. Bradley, Vice President; William A. Ham- mond. Cashier. The Board of Directors em- brace, besides two of the gentlemen above- named, S. B. obb, Frederick Mahla, Henry Corwith. Ernst Prussing, W. L. Pecik, H. N. Hibbard, B. H. Campbell, George E. Adams, and A.. A. Munger. The above-named gen- tlemen enjoy a high reputation in business circles east and west. Mr. George Schneider, the President of the Dlinois National Bank, is considered one of the ablest financiers in 80 CHICAGO'S FIEST HALF CENTURY. Chicago, and to his admirable management the bank is largely indebted for its pro- nounced success. CONTINENTAL NATIONAL BANK, NOS. 115 AND 117 DEARBORN STREET, Chicago, was established on the 5th of March, 1883, with a capital of $2,000,000, and under the most favorable auspices. This financial corporation has been exceptionably fortunate in securing for its officers gentle- men of the highest standing in commercial circles, whose names are a sufficient guaran- tee as to the unimpeachable character of the institution. The officers are: C. T. Wheeler, President; John C. Black, Cashier; Douglass Hoyt, Assistant Cashier. The Board of Di- rectors embrace such well-known names as P. D. Armour. A. G. Van Schaick, Henry Botsford, M. C. Stearns, etc. This bank will commence foreign exchange business Jan. 1, 1884. _ N. W. HARRIS & CO. THIKTEEN MILLIONS BEHIND THEM. lhat the importance of Chicago as a financial center increases steadily is con- firmed by the recent establishment here and signal success of these representative invest- ment bankers, at No. 176 Dearborn street. At their back, besides personal resources, is the long purse of one of the solidest trust companies of the East, having some $13,- 000,000 assets, for which company the firm places loans in Indiana and Illinois. A feature with which they are especially iden- tified is dealing in bonds of counties, cities and towns, when once personal visitation and rigid scrutiny have approved the legality of the proceedings issuing them, and certified that they were strictly for municipal purposes. Among these bonds more recently placed by the firm were $100.000 of the Saginaw bonds, $90,000 of South Bend, $00,000 of Sioux City, Iowa, $60,000 of Commbus, Ohio, $50,000 of Moline, 111., $40,000 of Binggold County, Iowa, $77,000 of Dakota Territory. BENNETT'S LAW AND COLLECTINO ASSOCIATION, 130 Dearborn street and 99 Madison street, was established in 1872, and has probably a larger clientage than any other law or col- lecting association in this city. Horace C. Bennett, a lawyer of ability and large prac- tice and experience, is the head of the law department, and THE INTER OCEAN, having had frequent occasion to employ Mr. Bennett, bears cheerful witness to his skill and integ- rity. He is also the Chicago attorney for the Stationers' Board of Trade, the Hardware Board of Trade, and the Carpet Trade Asso- ciation, all of New York City. REXFORI> & PRENTICE-LAWYERS. GENERAL LAW AND COLLECTIONS. This firm is composed of Henry L. Eexf ord, a native of this county, and a son of Stephen Eexf ord, who came to Cook County in 1833, and David K. Prentice, formerly of Genesee County, New York. By great diligence and much hard work they have established a fine general law practice and collection business. They have a large list of good clients both at home and abroad. A distinguishing feature in their collection methods is the constant attention to all claims, whether small or large, believing that the abandonment by attorneys of all small claims after very slight efforts to collect is not as effectual a plan as should be adopted by a well managed collec- tion house. This firm refer by special per- mission to the Chicago National Bank and Lyon & Healy, of Chicago, and the National Park Bank and Steinway & Sons, New York City. Their offices are located at 89 Madison street, two doors west of THE INTER OCEAN office. CHAP TEE VLLL THE INSURANCE BUSINESS. SOMETHING OF ITS HISTORY. THE FIRST AGENT. No city in the world ever gave to insurance men such a painful surprise as did Chicago in 1871. and never before nor since did the fire insurance companies make so grand a record for honesty and uprightness in busi- ness. The total loss by the fire was es- timated at $185,510,000, and the fire in- surance companies had risks on this amount- ing to $100,225,780, of which more than one-half, or about $50,178,780, was paid. By this conflagration sixty-eight companies, having assets of $24,807,109, were placed in liquidation. In that year there were six- teen local companies and twenty-eight out- side companies doing business in Chicago, with their agencies permanently located here. The first insurance agent in Chicago was Gurdon S. Hubbard, who received his ap- pointment from the .ZEtna of Hartford in 1834. In that year he wrote the first nolicy ever issued in" Chicago or Cook County. For over thirty years Mr. Hubbard con- tinued to represent this and other companies in Chicago, and retired from business in 1867. MARINE INSURANCE. In 1835 the Alton Marine and Fire Insur- ance Company of Alton, this State, was chartered, and it is claimed this was the first company chartered by tlie State. The second company to establish an agency in Chicago, however, was the Howard of New York, with E. K Hubbard as agent, early in 1836. In January, 1856, the "Chi- cago Marine and Fire Insurance Company was chartered, and in 1837 the third com- pany to appoint an agent for Chicago was the Hartford, of Hartford, Conn. , with Julius Wadsworth as agent. In 1839 Chicago had its first fire of any importance, when, on Oct. 27, the Tremont House, then standing where the Commercial Hotel now stands, and twelve other buildings on Lake street, burned. This naturally awakened the people to the advan- tage of insurance, and the business for that year increased very rapidly. Chicago had become a city, where one must be protected from fire if he would feel safe that business of one day could be resumed the next, even if the fire fiend swept away all the property he owned. BOARD OP UNDEBWHITEBS. In 1849 the increase of fires and the com- petition among insurance companies led to conferences and meetings of those engaged in agency work, and at a meeting in New York such steps were taken relative to the larger cities of the country that organization of local boards began. The first mention of the local board of underwriters in Chicago is of the date Dec. 3, 1849, with George W. Dale as President In 1852 fire and life insurance was so at- tractive that the Hon. E. C. Larned delivered a lecture on the subject at the Chi- cago Commercial College, April 9 before a large audience composed ot the leading representatives in commerce, banking, and law, and a committee of prominent citizens deemed this lecture of such value to the com- munity that they published it in pamphlet form for distribution. The Chicago Board of Underwriters was organized in 1856. The Chicago Fire Insurance Patrol was organized, and made its first appearance Oct. 2, 1871, just seven days before the great fire, with Captain Ben B. Bullwinkle at the head. After the fire the patrol became efficient, and has been of great service in aiding the department and saving insurance. There are now 262 insurance companies with agencies in Chicago, and the business in fire insurance amounts to about $3,000,000 a year, while the life and marine insurance will add $2,000,000 more. O-ENEKAL AGENCIES. PLATE GLASS INSURANCE. A MATTER THAT BUT FEW ABE CONVERSANT WITH The business as carried on by the Lloyds Plate Glass Insurance Company, of New York, enables parties having plate glass show- cases, or valuable mirrors to protect them- selves against all accidents, whether broken by careless servants, the criminally dis- posed, or the acts of Providence. Very few are aware of bhe numerous ways in which plate glass is broken. Few tenants are aware that they are liable to the owner of the dwellings or buildings they occupy for all glass broken, and breakages occur in nu- merous ways, and among those are breakage by burglars, runaway horses, intoxicated 82 CHICAGO'S FTR8T HALF CENTUEY. persons, mischievous boys, cleaning 1 win- dows, children playing, stones thrown, pistol balls, hailstorms, windstorms, ladders falling, shutters falling, sig-ns falling, awnings fall- ing, receiving goods, delivering goods, slamming of doors, warping of sashes, set- tling of buildings, lightning, tornadoes, ex- plosions, snow slides from roof, slipping on sidewalk, carelessness of employes, earless- ness of expressmen, expansion by heat, con- traction by cold, goods falling, inside or out. The Lloyds Insurance Company saves the owner of the glass not only money, but trouble and delay, for when a breakage oc- curs it is only necessary to notify the agents of the company, and they immediately re- place the broken glass. ASSETS. United States Governmens bonds $104,000 Cash in bank and other assets 26,000 Total assets $130.000 LIABILITIES. Losses in course of adjustment. ..$1,400 All other liabilities 5, 600 $7,000 Surplus to policy-holders. $123,000 George W. Montgomery and William C. Ma- gill, composing: the firm of Geo. W. Mont- gomery & Co., are agents, 151 LaSalle street, Chicago, 111. _ THE WESTERN MANUFACTURERS MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY, 113, 115, 117 MONKOE STEEET. This company under the able and efficient management of Secretary P. A. Montgomery has become one of those which can be relied upon to make substantial progress under all circumstances, and in 1883 has increased its net assets over fifty thousand dollars, be- sides declaring a 12% per cent dividend to policy-holders. This exceptional success is due to the nature of the risks written, which consist entirely of the best manufactories, widely scattered and under the supervision of skilled inspectors, none of whom are paid commissions. The officers are: President, the Hon. Jesse Spalding; Vice President, William H. Turner. Esq. ; Treasurer, the Hon. Clinton Briggs; Secretary. P. A. Montgomery. The business is purely mutual, and the member ship comprises a majority of the large manu- facturing firms of th'e Northwest. Mr. Montgomery is an underwriter of con- siderable experience, having been connected with the Millers' National Insurance Com- pany, of this city, in a responsible capacity for several years previous to his appoint- ment as Secretary of the Western Manu- facturers' Mutual, and having previous to that a wide experience as special agent and adjuster for several leading stock companies. That the Western Manufacturers' Mutual is well handled may be inferred from the fact that it has returned during the past four years an average of 25 per cent of premiums annually to its policy-holders, or one year's premium out of every four. THE TRADERS' INSURANCE CO.! This company began business under its re- organization April, 1872, with a cash capital of $500,000. It has uniformly made money every year since, and has returned to its stockholders their entire outlay and consid- erable besides. Its gross assets now reach $1,150.000, with a surplus as regards policy- holders of $860,000. It has entirely out- grown the prejudice against local companies, and, having a firm hold on the public, gained by fair and prompt dealing with all, and an extended agency system, which furnishes a large income, the Traders is justly regarded one of the solid, permanent institutions of this city. Among its officers and directory are found names which are familiar to all as gentlemen of wealth and standing, and being located in the center of the great Northwest, its future is bright and promising. We are glad to know that the company has had a very prosperous year, and makes a splendid showirssr in its annual statement. R. J. r the wholesale trade cutting into Chicago's business con- siderably. But tae natural increase of popu- lation m the Nortnwest has more than doubled the wholesale traffic of this city since the fire, and it is admitted on all hands that capital invested in business here pays a better interest than in any other city. The magnitude of the trade to-day is mar- velous reaching as it does to a business of $30,000,000 for one firm, and overtopping the trade of any other city in the Union in many lines. Chicago to-day stands at the head of certain lines of business, and is sec- ond only to New York in any line whatso- ever. The importing of tea is a specialty witn this city, aud this year the imports promise to be 26 per cent greater than ever before. CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURA. Ever since 1881 Chicago has imported more tea than any city in the world. The first dry goods house in the country is here, the first millinery establishment, aud in the wholesale grocery line bufc one house in the country exceeds some of the Chicago establishments, and that is in New York. The half century sees Chicago next to the head. The century will see her, at the same rate of progress, at the head of every com- mercial city in the world. MARSHAL,!, FIELD & CO. THE LARGEST DRY GOODS HOUSE IN THE WEST. To thousands of people scattered from Maine to California and from Hong Kong to London, Chicago and Marshall Field & Co. are synonymous terms. They are not the same, as any one living in thia city can testify, but there are many people in distant parts of the world who hear of the former only because of something sold to or bought from the lat- ter's great dry goods house that the mistake is not so unnatural as might be supposed, for Marshall Field's store is as distinct in its po- sition as an unrivaled dry goods house as the city is in its as tne only Chicago. HISTORY OF THE ENTERPRISE. The history of this great commercial en- terprise does not date back half a century for its beginning, and it is not a quarter cent- ury since the name of Field had any connec- tion with it. Potter Palmer was the founder. He came to Chicago in 1852 and opened a dry goods store in a small, unpretentious store on Lake street, between Clark and Dearborn, which was then in the very heart of trade in the city. The enterprise was a success, and from that small beginning came the great unriv- aled Marshall Field & Co. In the fall of 1864 Mr. Palmer retired, dis- posing of his interests to Messrs. Marshall Field, L. Z. Letter and Milton J. Palmer, and the name was changed to Field, Leiter & Palmer. In 1866 Mr. Milton J, Palmer re- tired and the firm was Field & Leiter, a name that was familiar all over the country, for under that name was achieved some of the greatest triumphs of the establishment THE FIRST FIRE. In October, 1868, the firm first occupied its present site. The great fire of October 9. 1871, swept away all its wealth of beautiful goods gathered from the four points of the compass, along with the building, but the men at the head were like Chicago and not to be discouraged by a total loss, began at once the rebuilding and in a short time the site of the ruins was reoccupied by a fine building. Again, in 1877, this beautiful trade palace was visited by fire and all was swept away. But the Exposition Building was rented and Field & Leiter occupied that until 1879 when the new marble palace, the best arranged retail store on the conti- nent, was opened. It has been occupied ever since, and the perfect fire-proof struct- ure bids defiance to any more such disasters as have been experienced in the past. WHO MARSHALL FIELD 18. In January, 1881, Mr. Leiter retired from the business, and the firm became "Marshall Field & Company," with Marshall Field at the head. This gentleman is yet in the prime of life, being 48 year old, and a resident of Chi- cago since 1868. Of tow words, quiet de- meanor, unblemished moral character ana habits, pleasant manner, liberal, thoroughly public-spirited and sympathetic in nature, is this handsome man, who is to be seen at his desk every day in the wholesale department, managing this great enterprise as though it were a machine with his liand-on the lever. The business is dual in its operations a wholesale house, with its own establish- ment, management and commercial ramifi- cations, and a retial trade, with its man- agement and special f eatures,each absolutely distinct in every particular. The managers and superintendents of the various departments in the retail store daily visit the wholesale house and make such pur- chases as they need in their stock, discount- ing their bills for the cash down, thus buying their goods precisely as do other customera The cost for all such purchases are regularly paid over by the retail to the wholesale house each day promptly, before the close of bank- ing hours, and no credit whatever is allowed between the housea IN THE RETAIL STORE, the division is into departments dress and fancy goods, carpets, upholstery, and two manufacturing departments. The dress and fancy goods department occupy- ing the first floor, is subdivided into thirty-nine divisions, each under the supervision of a competent man who looks after his stock as though he had a store en- tirely distinct from all the rest. The whole retail store is under the man- agement of J. M. Flemming, the carpet de- partment is managed bv Albert H. Dainty, and the upholstery department by Charles H. Ward. Each of these gentlemen effect their own purchases from all parts of the world. There are over 1,500 men, women, boys, and girls in this store to look after the welfare of the customers who often number 5,000 at once. J. V. FAKWEUL Ot CO. THE LARGEST BUILDING IN THE COUNTBT. Perhaps no firm in the United States ia bet- ter and more favorably known in this coun- try than J. V. Farwell & Co. , importers and jobbers of foreign and domestic dry gooda Within the past year they have moved into their new building, the largest, most exten- sive, and best arranged for their business in the East or Wesi. It is the general verdict of merchants who have been in every similar institution in the land that this is the case, and the extent and completeness of this house has become so universally known that thousands of people consider their visit to Chicago only half made without going through the Farwell Building. Regarding the architectural beauty of this building, it can be truthfully said to rival any building in Chicago. It is constructed of Philadelphia pressed brick, with stone trimmings, and the architects and contractors were evidently given all the latitude they de- sired in planning and construction. Its mas- siveness makes it, in fact, the most attractive building on Market street, and other build- Ings that were once considered to be giants of stanw and briok now sink Into insignificance CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTtfRt. when compared with the great Farwell Block, that looms above everything, and can he seen at a great distance from almost every direction. DIMENSIONS OF THE BUILDING. The dimensions of this building are 280x 400 feet, it is six floors above ground and two below, i. e. , a basement and sub-base- ment, besides immense storage-rooms under Market street. The building itself cost $1,- 000,000 and stands on ground worth $500,- 000 more. The boiler and engine-rooms front on Adams street and extend across the entire Imildinsr from east to west. Tne boiler-room is 70x90 feet, 20 feet high, and is said to be the best boiler-room in Cnic:;go. The engine is an improved Corliss, 250-horse power, with a 20-foot fly wheel; there are eight boilers 84 inches and 16 feet in length; 12 elevators are used in the building; two large-sized Worthington pumps for feeding boilers; one 8-nose pump "for fiirc purposes; one 5-nose pump for pumping water to a tank of 40,- 000 tons capacity, located on the roof; 250,- 000 feet of steam pipe is employed to heat the building. Electricity is used in lighting the building. Tne Schroll smokeless furnace has recentlv been attached to the boilers, and gives perfect satisfaction. WHAT CLASS OF GOODS ABE CABBIED. The first floor contains the offices, sales- men's desks, and a general line of prints and other dome?t : c goods. On the second floor is found an immene stock of imported an 1 do- mestic dress goods, velvets, silks, shawls, etc., and in this specialty Farwell & Co. are second to no firm in the United States. The third floor is devoted to upholstery, woolens, and flannels; the fourth to white and knit goods, hosiery, yarns, gloves, etc. The fifth floor is tilled entirely with as complete a line of notions, ribbons, threads, jewelry, clocks, watches, etc., as can be found in this or any other country. Reaching the sixth floor, the largest stock of carpets and oil cloths in the West is displayed. The light throughout the entire building, one of the essentials to the proper display of goods, is so distributed as to be perfect in r-very respect. TEKiUTOKY BEACHED AND ANNUAL SALE3. In response to the question as to the ter- ; itory reached by Farwell & Co., they replied ihatthey went east as far as Detroit, south and southeast to Cincinnati, and .jyond St. Louis, west to the Pacific coast, and north to the British possessions embracing a scope of country the extent of which will hardlv be recognized by the casual reader at drat glance. Within this radius are included seventeen States and every 1 erritory in the Union. The sales of this house reuc u:d the enor- mous fisrures of $20,000,000 the past year, :n. iiK-rease of 20 per cent over those for lss2. and 50 per cent over those of a faw years asro, a fact that will astonish the com- mercial world, and cause competitors to be surprised at the marvelous growth of J. V. Farwell & Co. 's business. It is questionable if there is another institution of the kind in this country that can make as good an ex- hibit or show a healthier growth, and is only one more illustration of the grand possibili- ties of Chicago's future. The fact that this is an exclusively wholesale establishment must not be excluded from the mind of the reader, the proprietors resisting the temptation of reaping the profits of an extensive retail store in this city, and giving thereby their custom- ers the opportunities that rightfully belong to them, and at the same time being enabled to throw their entire energy and'time into the wholesale business. THE STOCK OF GOODS CABBIED by this house, amounting to $5,000,- 000, is. of course, in accord with its other immense proportions, and the force required to move and control this enormous business is 500 em- ployes. Twice each year a large corps of genera 1 salesmen are sent throughout the en- tire territory controlled by this house to visit the trade and introduce the many nov- elties they are -constantly securing for theif customers. For the past thirty years J. V. Farwell has been actively engaged in mercantile life in Chicago, and otherwise identified with its in- terest, and the house of which these lines have spoken may very properly be classed as the pioneer. A remarkable fact which, by the way, speaks well for employer and em- ploye, in this connection, is that some of them have been together for the space of a quarter of a century having grown gray in the service, with the bonds of good fellow- ship still, doubtless, as lasting as life. C. M. HENDERSON. BOOTS AND SHOES. The annual sales in this line of goods at Chicago have reached such dimensions that this city now ranks first in importance as a producing and distributing point. Every- thing from the finest ladies' shoe to tne stoga of the cattle ranch is manufactured here, and the brands of the Chicago manu- facturers have become more widely known and familiar to the country than any other make. The goods bear a high reputatien for style and finish, and the shoe buyer finds that no other market offers such inducements for purchase as this city, not only as legards prices but in the variety of selection and un- equalled facilities for shipment. Among the men who have by their persevering efforts given to Chicago this proud position C. M. HENDEBSON & CO. ABE ALWAYS NAMED AS THE LEADEBS. They are the largest and among the oldest boot and shoe manufacturers in the West. Beginning years ago (1851) in a small way, they have reached in 1884 the pinnacle in the boot and shoe trade. This position has been secured in the face of many difficulties. The great boot and shoe manufacturers of the East were a few years ago firmly seated on the throne of trade, but this firm has overcome the competition and the influence of the plutocracy of the sea- board, by persisting in manufacturing supe- rior goods and selling them at small pr. fits. The manufacture and sale of boots and shoes requires perhaps a srreater variety of talents and versatility to win popularity than any other line, and these qualities are evi- dently possessed by this firm to an unusual degrea They have two immense factories. and their facilities for producing goods cheaply are unsurpassed. The most popular and durable children's shoe ever made was created not long since by this firm, to meet a special and long- felt want A stylish, tough, avid everlasting piece- of pedal architecture. jut the thing for boisterous school children. Our readers will recognize the brand under the name of the Henderson "Red School House" shoe, a name 90 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. which is becomin out the land, an and strength. ig a household word through- d a synonym for durability WILLIAM BL.A1R & CO. OVEB FOBTY TEABS OLD. This extensive hardware house, established in 1842 under the above name, is located at 172, 174, and 176 Lake street. Mr. Blair, its present senior member, was its senior member then, and very properly Mr. Blair may be designated as the father of the hard- ware trade of Chicago, if not indeed as a business man of almost any other line of business in this progressive city. The firm has thus been in continuous existence, with- out change in name or in government, for a period of over forty years. It is also a note- worthy fact that this firm commands a larger amount of actual capital than any other house in this line in the West The main secret of the great success of Messrs. William Blair & Co. 's house is due to their honorable dealing with their customers, and with the careful study of the demands of the trade and the wants of the community. The firm deals largely in shelf -hard ware of all varieties, tin plate, tinners' tools and ma- chines, stamped and japanned tinware, tin- ners' stock, metals, shet-t iron, agricultural implements, plain and barbed wire fence, etc. Their trade now is unlimited, and cov- ers every State and Territory in the West and Northwest, and as it is constantly in- creasing and assuming proportions second to none in this line, they naturally wield a wide influence and enjoy the rich harvest that is now meted out to them. We can join with their many friends in best wishes for a continuance of their merited succesa MORRISON, PLUMMER Jfc CO.. WHOLESALE DBUGGISTS, have steadily increased the range and vol- ume of their wholesale drug trade since the organization of the firm in 1876, until they have become one of the leading- houses in thia line. Robert Morrison, Jonathan W. Plummer, and Leonard A. Lange constitute the firm which, in addition to its business as import- ers and wholesalers of drugs and druggists' stock, does a large and growing trade in manufacturing a general line of pharma- ceutical preparations, which,owing to quality and price, are rapidlv finding favor with their customers. Tui- tirm, like many other of our leading houses in the different trades, have built themselves up on their own merits, in- tegrity, and enterprise being the fundamental principles, and coupled with the most assid- uous study of the trade and the wants of the people, have made their goods almost a ne- cessity and very popular. Ketail druggist- are invited to send" for their new pharmas ceutical list HENRY W. KING & CO. OLDEST JOBBING CLOTHING HOUSE. The clothing business has become so im- portant in this day and generation that it must demand particular aud arefal at- tention. Tears of labor aad great are invested, and extensive stocks of goods must be carried that the wide field and diversity of tastes, which characterize all communities, may be satisfied. The large capital invested in this commodity, and the great number of men, women and children to whom it furnishes employment would be surprising, if figures were taken into con- sideration. The house of Henry W. King & Co. is the oldest jobbing clothing house in our city, Mr. King having began business in January, 1854, and continuing ever since with but two changes in style of firm. Within the past few years this house has established, in addition to its wholesale business, retail stores in several cities outside of Chicago. Among them may be mentioned Mil- waukee, Cincinnati and St. Louis, all of which are conducting business under the name of ohe Golden Eagle Clothing Store, each having an experienced manager in charge. In tne different cities where these branch houses are located they are without a single exceptioa, doing the leading business in their line of trade. ~ Therefore, when we state that the house of Henry W. King &Co. is doing a large and prosperous business, and stands high in the commercial world, we sim- ply state facts. JONES & LAUGHL1NS, LIMITED. IBON MEBCHANTS. Among the changes of the year, we notice that the business so long conducted by the firm of Jones & Laughlins has been incor- porated with the above style. There is no change in the interests or management, either at the mills in Pittsburg or at the warehouse and office in Chicago. They report the business of the year greater in volume than previous years, but prices have been low, and for some articles not re- munerative. The quality of the goods manufactured by them, and their reputation for excellence, have given them their full share of trade. In cold rolled shafting and fittings, the sales have been much larger than former years. Their warehouse in this city contains a complete assortment of American refined, Glair, Norway, and Low Moor bar iron, American, Eussia, and planished sheet iron, steel, nails, spikes and chains. Their stock is the most extensive of its kind in the United States, and embracing as it does all the sizes of iron used in the construction of cars and locomotives, is a valuable source of supply for railways. Their friends will be welcomed on all occa- sions. CLAPP & DAVIES. WHOLESALE JEWELBY. At Nos. 63 and 65 Washington street is eminently a Chicago firm of old established reputation, well and favorably known throughout the country. The individual members of the firm are Mr. Caleb Clapp and Mr. Thomas Daviea They conduct the wholesale jewelry business in all its rt Nos. 93 and 65 Washington CHICAGO'S FIKST HALF CENTUBY. 91 street, carrying at all times a large and ex- cellently assorted stock of fine, medium, and fair quality goods, and also affording ample opportunity for the selection of high-priced goods. They also carry a full line of Wal- tham, Elgin, and other watches. During the last year the firm have enjoyed an excellent trade, and have sold goods in territory which they have not covered heretofore. They at- tend promptly to all mail orders, and cus- tomers have sufficient confidence in the per- sonal ability and judgment of Messrs. Clapp & Dnvies to entrust them with the eclectic q of goods. Their prices are as low as consistent, when the quality is considered, and they buy for cash, thus giving their customers the benefits that they are often able to obtain by having ample cash assets at their com- mand. CARSON, PIRIE, SCOTT & CO. We present our readers on this page with a cut of the large wholesale dry goods house of Carson, Pirie, Scott & Co., Madisom and Franklin streets. This firm la well and f a- with 132 feet frontage. This house, estab- lished in 1853, has built up an immense trade in the specialties of iron, steel, nails, heavy hardware, carriage hardware, trim- mings, and wood material. This house also supplies extensively blacksmiths' machines of every description and of the latest im- provement in make, and all materials re- quired in the blacksmith trade. The house employs 100 men in its sales and manufacturing departments, doing considerable manufacturing in Michigan at a factory of its own. Great credit is due Mr. Kimbark for the energy and superior man- agement that has placed his business on the nresent substantial basis and commanding position in the trade. This characteristic was taxed, and proved its eminent efficiency in the rapid recovery and replacement of the damaged parts of this great establishment by their recent disastrous fire. The wheels were kept in motion and the business earned on with scarcely an hour of detention, and they now announce their full capacity of vorably known throughout the entire West as honorable, reliable, enterprising, and en- ergetic merchanta There are few if any houses in this country or Europe who carry so large and well assorted stocke in everv department as they do. In looking through their numerous departments this week we found them quite busy opening new importa- tions in laces, embroideries, hosiery, linens, white goods, etc. As they purchase these goods in large quantities for cash from man- ufacturers buyers can rely on getting the best values from them to be had anywhere in this country. _ SENECA D. KIMBARK. IKON, STEEL, AND HARDWARE. Prominent among the dealers of the hard- ware trade and in iron and steel supplies in Chicago is the above-named firm, now located corner of Michigan avesme aad take strewt. attending to all orders in their usual prompt manner. Mr. K. reports a satisfactory in- crease of sales over former years. THE RETAIL TRADE. AN HISTORICAL CHAPTER. THE FIHST MERCHANT IN CHICAGO. The first half century of Chicago's existence aa a place draws to a close with the year 1883. The miraculous growth of the city is hardly apparent to those who nave made their home here only since the rebuilding of the city after the great fire of 1871. The contrast of the business to-day and the busi- ness of even twenty years ago is remarkable. But as this is a semi-centennial of the city a short retrospect of its early commerce is ap- propriate. In 1833 Chicago was nothing but a military CHICAGO'S FIRST HALT 1 UKNTOKX. trading post with a block-house located at the point where Biver street and Michigan avenue unite. There were no streets, just simpiT two roads; one ran south along the lake shore.which is now Michigan avenue ; the other ran southwest a short way and then west, conforming to the stream. This was called Water street later, and it proved the main road upon which all the great trade of this metropolis was built. THE FIRST STOKE. Philo Carpenter had the first store outside the post in 1833, and later P. F. W. Peck built a store. Both these stores were on Water street. Carpenter's was near Franklin street, or rather where the road turned to go over the river at the point where Lake street bridge is now located. Peck's store was on the corner of a cross- road known now as LaSalle street. These two were the original retail stores, and wholesale, too, for that matter, upon which the com- merce of Chicago was founded. They both handled general goods, and obtained their supplies from Detroit mostly by water, but sometimes by wagons across the country. They did not find it hard to dispose of their goods' since they made large profits, and as this became knowu new stores were built by traders from the East In 1834 there were no less than eight stores in Chi- cago, and the village kept growing. A. G. Burley opened the first crockery store, and he even went so far as to build tiis store on the new street or road just opened, and called Lake street. Burley's store was up near the point where LaSalle street is now located. In 1836 the village had grown to the pro- portions of a town, and there were about fifty stores in the place. There were streets as far south as Madison street, and as far north as Indiana street, with an extension on the West Side of Lake street and Ran- dolph street; and Canal and Clinton streets were blocked out also. JOHN AND JAMES CARNEY were the large retail grocers, and were lo- cated at No. 133 Lake street. This street had arrived at the dignity of numbers in 1837, and about all the stores were located thereon. In 1839 Chicago was a city of considerable importance, having more than a hundred stores of all sorts on its few streets, Lake street being the main artery of trade. Burley's crockery store was located at 161 Lake street South Water street was the original street, and the largest houses were located there. B. A. Berry & Co. had the largest dry goods store on that street Philo Carpenter kept his drug and station- ery store at the old stand on South Water street. Dodge & Tucker had a large ship chandlery on this street. Geonre Chacksfield had a pretentious grocery store on the same thoroughfare. John Fenherty had the first fancy thy goods store on this street, near Clark street ferry. Isaac D. Harmon had a dry goods store* on the same strest. just opposite Fenherty's. H. O. Stone had a grocery and provision store in this street On Lake street, however, the more preten- tious stores were to be found. Here were located J. H. Wicker, grocer, No. 87 Lake street; B. W. Raymond, general store. No. 122 Lake street Mr. Raymond was the Mayor; Hobbie & Clark, dry goods. No. 142 Lake street; J. W. Hooker, grocer, No. 152 Lake street; A. Goodenow, dry goods. No. 184 Lake street; N. Goold, grocery and pro- visions, No. 155 Lake street; John Went- worth, editor and proprietor of the Chicago Democrat, over W. F. Wheeler's drv goods store, No. 107 Lake street; Ira B. Eddy and John Calhoun, ironmongers and stove deal- ers. No. 105 Lake street; S. W. Goss & Co., dry goods. No. 105 Lake street; 8. F.' Gale, book store. No. 159 Lake street; 8. B. Collins, boot and shoe store, No. 140 Lake street; Thomas Church, grocery. No. Ill Lake street; S. B. Cobb, saddlery and harness-maker. No. 171 Lake street; Ira Couch kept the Tremont Tavern at the corner of Lake and Dearborn streets; T. B. Carter & Co., fancy dry goods. No. 118 Lake street. ON DEAEBORN STREET were several stores, noticeably A. Follansbee, grocery and provisions; George F. Foster and George A. Robb, grocers and ship chan- dlers; Charles Follansbee, grocery; Goodsell 4 and 50 State street; W. F. McLauirhliu, corner of State and Madison streets; Henry Schoelkopf, corner Washing- ton and Wells streets. The commerce of Chicago gradually in- creased with each new railroad that con- nected her with the Norttiwest. The civil war had much to do with the prosperity of trade in Chicago. Fortunes were made in a short time, and the commerce of the city was something wonderful to the merchants of the East who came here. In 1865 Chicago's marts of commerce pre- sented as busy an appearance as they do to- day. The war was over, and the city was filled with soldiers who were mustered out and paid off. The retail stores reaped a golden harvest. Lake street, from end to end, was like the State street of to-day. The retail dry g - oods nouses were Putney. Knight & Hamlin, No. 105 Lake street; Ross & Go s- sage, No. 167 Lake street; J. B. Shay & Co. CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 93 No. 163 Lake street: Simpson & Hughes, No. 181 Lake street: A. G. Downs & Co., No. 150 Lake street. There were some large retail grocers, such as Stanton & Co., No. 135 Lake street; H. C. Champion & Co., No. 9 Clark street; L. D. Boone & Co., No. 164 State street; Taylor, Watson & Co. . No. 10 LaSalle street. The leading retail druggists of that date were George Buck, No. 93 Clark street; Bliss & Sharp, No. 144 Lake street; Gale & Blocki, No. 202 Randolph street. From the localities above named the course of the retail trade of this city may be readily traced. The names of most of the firms are no longer familiar to the public, but from most of these firms do many of the present magnificent establishments date their exist- I'HE HOUSE OF A MERCHANT PRINCE A SKETCH OF S. GUT SKA. The youngest and in many respects the most remarkable of Chicago's merchant princes is Mr. S. Guy Sea, whose name has not been before the public for many years, but is already a familiar household word, and is known to every lady shopper in the Northwest. To strangers who visft the city Sea's store is as much an object of interest as the waterworks or the parks, and they go there to look and listen if not to buy. Dur- ing fair times, and when excursions are daily coming into the city from all parts of the Northwest, one can see a constant procession of lion-hunters passing in and out of the wide doors that open into the store from State street. As the poet said of the waves of another sea They come and go incessant. During holiday times, and in the days of heavy fall and spring trading, when Sea gets in ne'w stocks of goods, or when he is offer- ing some famous specialty from his counters, the throng is so great that policemen have to be stationed at the entrance to turn the ebbing and the flowing tide of humanity into the proper channels, or there would be a blockade and a crush of people packed as closely as sardines. But "Sea looks out for all this, and the stentorian voice of his usher is heard above the confusion, shouting: "Keep to the right, ladies, keep to the right." This is good advice in any place, under all circumstances, and if Mr. Sea would have it painted on a large placard, and placed in a conspicuous position, it might be the means of diverting some poor creature from the wrong way in the outer world as well as in his mammoth store. But this article did not start out to be a song or a sermon, but was intended to present a fe\v facts relating to the remarkable life and astonishing success of Chicago's young- est merchant. He is the typical Chicago man; very young and very "energetic, and the story'of his success is simply a parallel to the growth and development of Chicago. No man among the entire 600,000 people who go to make up this city could be se- lected to better represent the go-ahead-and- get- the -business style of Chicago than S. Guy Sea. Mr. Sea commenced his business life thir- teen years ago, and, though then but 14 years' of asre, had been well grounded in not onlv the rudimentary branches, but in the higher mathematics and the languages. At 18 we find him in New York as buyer for Carson, Pirie, Scott & Co. , of this city, and was known as the ''boy buyer, whom no quantity staggers if the price suits him." Leaving business against the wish and advice of his employers, he spent his 20th year at Racine College, but his was too nervous and active a temperament for a scholastic life, and at the close of that year, original and peculiar advertisements at- tracted much attention and comment. They were signed "Sea, State Street," and Mr. Sea may be said to have inaugurated that lavish display advertising that has since become a necessity of mercantile success. Meanwhile Sea has become a merchant prince. Like the beanstalk of Jack the Giant Killer, Sea's business grew almost in a single night, and became greater and greater so rapidly that he was an active even competitor with the other merchandising firms before they knew he was in the race. It has required but seven years to build up the great trade he now commands, and to acquire the enormous capital that stands behind his two concerns in this city and the one in Minneapolis His sales in a sinerle day often reach $30.000, and his business of 1883 was a third greater than that of 1882. His annual holiday bazar is an established feature, and at Fourth of July time the demand for his goods compels him to open branches in all parts of the city. Sea's Minneapolis store, which he pur- chased last October, is his latest enterprise, and it occupies an entire block, with a front- age of 272 feet. The moment his name was announced as proprietor, the store at once took the leading position in Minneapolis, its sales being more than double those of any retail house there, and three times greater than Sea himself had expected. There is a moral to all stories, and there is a very striking and emphatic one to the story of Sea's success. People will ask, "Upon what meat hath this our Caesar fed, That he hath grown so great," and the answer is truthful advertising. Sea knows what the people want, he gets it, tells them that he has it, and sells it to them cheaper than they can get it any where else. The public look for Sea's advertisements in the newspapers each day as tuey look for the telegraph dispatches, and they fiud a list of articles for sale with the prices attached. They make a list of such articles as they de- sire to buy and go to Sea's counter and get the goods' saving time, money, and the .wear and tear of mind that they have to endure in other stores. It is this system of adver- tising that has made Soa successful. He be- lieves in selling a large quantity of goods with small profits, rather than a small quantity at large profits, and using printers' ink to tell people so. "THE FAIR." LEHMANN'S IMMENSE "STOBE" THE LARGEST IN THIS CITY. There is but one place of the kind in the world and that is "The Fair," owned, con- trolled, and managed by Mr. E. J. Lehmann. There is probably not an intelligent man or woman in this city, and but very few who read the papers outside of Chicago, but who know where Mr. Lehmann's immense store is located State, Adams, and Dearborn streets. Although covering- more ground than any other "store" io this city his quarters are * 94 CHICAGO'S FIBST HALT CENTURY. tirely too small for his great business, and Chicago may awaken any morning to learn that Lehmann has let contracts for the con- struction of the largest business building in the city. "The Fair" is all that the name implies, for everything from a cambric needle to the largest article of a portable character can be obtained there. In fact, "The Fair" has grown to be the most wonderful enterprise in the Northwest, and no visitor has "gone the rounds" or ' -done the town" unless hav- ing paid his or her respects to Mr. Lehmann. The success of this institution, for it is noth- ing more nor less, is due to several causes, principally owing to the proprietor's knowl- edge of the business, his push, and his manner of advertising. With one or two possible excep- tions he is said to have the faculty of putting his advertisements in such a shape as to compel even his competitors to read them, and to an extent of forcing them to copy after him. Having secured the crowds by legitimate methods, HE CARRIES OUT HIS PROMISES by selling them goods at prices which seem ruinous. He is enabled to do this by pur- chasing in enormous quantities and turning his money at a rapid rate. Goods that would lie for months in some houses are taken in the back door at "The Fair" in bulk, dis- tributed to their respective departments, and carried out of the front entrances in the arms of customers in the space of a few houra The system established for the convenience of supplying immense crowds of people is something marvelous. His diminutive city of merchandise is divided into about forty departments, and ne employs at least 500 people. It has only been a few years since Mr. Leh- mann launched out so extensively, and yet his success is the most striking that was ever known in this country. To-day he is climb- ing rapidly to great wealth, and being a young man by a large majority, it would seem that before his hair is strewn with the inevitable silvery threads he will be one of Chicago's wealthiest and most influential citizens. THE BEE-HIVE. A PHENOMENAL SUCCESS FROM THE STAB". The Bee Hive was started at Nos. 174 aud 176 State street last April, and has met with phenomenal success. The firm enlisted in this enterprise includes Maximilian Morgen- thau, Gustav Morgenthau, Jacob H Bauland. and Joseph H. Bauland. The store front displays a titanic show of windows, the fur- nishings of which catch the eye and tickle the fancy, the unique sign surmounting them showing for a center-piece a large golden bee-hive. The interior of the store rea'izes '.he claim of the trade-mark, for it is a veritable hive, where the public seek the honey of bargains, and business is brisk from early morning until evening. This firm believe in quick sales and small profits, and by doing a strictly cash business are enabled to sell goods at bottom prices, in some lines underselling the wholesale trade. Millinery forms a large and lucrative portion of the business, drawing a large out-of-town trade. The firm claim in this stock to com- pete with wholesale houses. The basement of the building presents a display of china, glassware, and house- furnishings. The first floor of the store is as well arranged for the comfort of patrons as it is tor the display of goods. Its departments comprise dress goods, silks, gloves, hosiery, and fancy goods. By an easy flight of stairs or capacious elevator one may ascend to the second floor, where there is a large display of millinery, cloaks, suits, corsets, and under- wear. The third floor is devoted to carpets, upholstery, shoes, and boys' clothing. The upper floor is devoted to the wholesale depart- ment and offices. The store is supplied with a corps of com- petent and agreeable lady clerks, and the ex- cellent facilities of the establishment please patrons as well as the sroods they receive for value received. The Bee Hive promises to be busy both winter and summer, and make progressive growth in accord with its patron- age. F. SZEGEL & BROTHERS. This well known and enterprising firm are engaged in the manufacture, importation, and sale of cloaks and suits. They are located in the new Robert Law Building, at numbers 126. 128, 130, and 132 Market street. The above cut represents the beautiful building they occupy, the interior of which is fin- ished in light woods, which gives it a fine ap- pearance. In this building are employed by this firm from 400 to 500 hands, whose pay roll amounts to from $150,000 to $200,000 per annum. Over 40,000 square feet of floor room is occupied by this firm. Their ma- chinery is all run by steam, thus relieving their operatives of much fatiguing and hurt- ful labor. This house manufacture all classes of goods in this line, from the cheapest to the most expensive. They are said to be the heaviest importers of this class of goods in the West. Ten traveling salesmen are em- ployed, who travel from Pennsylvania to California. Large sales are made by them on the Pacific coast. This firm commenced bus- iness here eight years ago, and since that time it has been constantly increasing and expanding year by year, until the business of 1883 will " not fall far short CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 95 of $1,000,000. Every article purchased from which their goods are manufactured is bought at the lowest possible price, and their business is managed in a careful and judi- cious manner, so that the goods when placed upon the market are offered at the lowest possible price, while the class of goods are said to be unexcelled for the price charged for them. During the years they have been engaged in business, they have given tneir customers splendid satisfaction, and the con- sequence is they seldom loose a customer when his trade has once been secured. In the commercial fields the firm of F. Siegel & Brothers stand high, and have the confidence of all. The srentlemen comprising this firm are all young men, the oldest member being: less than 36 years of age. They have all had a thorough experience in the business, and, therefore, rank among the successful merchants of Chicago. PARDRIDGE'S EMPORIUM. THE GREAT CASH RETAIL STORE OF STATE STREET. When the writer approacned Mr. M. J. Mc- Clellan, one of the managers for C. W. & E. Pardridge, he found that gentleman full of business, but ready to give THE INTER OCEAN readers some account of the trade for 1883. This house, as is well-known, ! among the survivors of the great fire organizing imme- diately after that event, and proceeding at once to business. Pardridge Brothers, possessing unlimited financial resources, have adopted, and strictly adhere to, the cash system both respecting purchases and sales. They own the property, a handsome five-story building, covering the three numbers, 112, 114. and 116 State street an advantage en- joyed by but few houses in this city. Doing business on a cash basis and having no ex- orbitant rents to pay, it is plain to be seen that they are in a position, if they so desire, to take advantage of competitors, and put goods upon the market at prices that would be ruinous to some. They are very liberal with their trade, accommodating customers by cheerfully exchanging goods, and are studiously careful that no attache of the place is allowed to make misrepresentations in order to complete a sale. WHAT LINE OF GOODS THEY HANDLE. The Pardridges are importers and dealers in dry goods, fancy goods, carpets, millinery, etc. , and carry a stock running up into the hundreds of thousands. They make a spe- cialty of promptly executing' orders for samples, and people a thousand miles rrom Chicago can purchase goods to as great an advantage as those who walk in and trade over the counter. Their magnificent display in their front windows, in the minds of the best judges, has been, for the past six months, the finest in the city. Regarding the sales, considering the vari- ous drawbacks in the way of bad weather, etc. , they correspond favorably with 1882, while the aggregate profits, under a change of management, are above those of any pre- vious year, which, after all, IK the key note to absolute sneeess. Altogether, there Is not a house in this city that can show a better record, or on.e which has brighter prospects for 1884. _ GILES BROTHERS & CO., FOR An ti -Magnetic SHIELD FOB Wtch More- the well-known jewelers, are still increasing their business in both the wholesale and re- tail departments, and supply the jewelry trade from the Alleghanies to the Pacific. The three medals for superiority in watches, awarded by the greatest exposition for rail- way appliances ever held anywhere, were won by Giles, Bro. & Co., and it is an indis- putable fact that no house in the world sur- passes theirs In this respect These three medals are represented here, and they con- stitute, without a doubt, the highest honors that a watchmaker can obtain. They have added A NEW INDUSTRY to the manufacturing interests of Chicago in tha shape of a diamond-cutting department 06 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTDBZ. They certainly deserve great credit for their enterprise. This is the only establishment of the kind in the West, and has been seldom at- tempted outside of the old hereditary dia- mond-cutting establishments of Amsterdam. They import their rough diamonds free of duty, and by using the best labor-saving machinery, are able to offer their patrons the benefit of first cost prices. Giles Brothers & Co. employ over 100 hands, and their stock runs up into the millions. WM. M. DALE, THE POPULAB DEUGGIST. Corner Clark and Madison streets, and 75 State street This gentleman occupies such a commanding place in the retail drug trade of Chicago as few merchants achieve in a city of such size and so cosmopolitan in cha r- acter. His motto, "In Medicia Puritas, in Compositione Veritas," a very free transla- tion of which would be, "Pure Drugs Com- pounded with Fidelity," has been so consist ently carried out in his business that when a difficult prescription or rare drug is demanded every one sends to Dale. For something over twenty years Mr. Dale has been en- gaged in the retail drug business in this city, and the popularity which he enjoys is well and honorably earned. The new store which Mr. D. has recently opened at No. 75 State street is an ornament to that thoroughfare, and will be quite a convenience to his lady patrons, who can thus avoid the crowded corner of Clark and Madison streets. It is an item of vital importance that too many ignore, in having their prescriptions in thoroughly competent hands, and for the indorsement, of this house in their accuracy and reliance their growing and extensive patronage but bespeaks. K. BURNHAJVl, THE HAIK DEALEB. 71 State street The gentleman whose name appears in the above heading,although young in years, has shown an aptness for business which has placed him in the front in the line of hair goods and all the novelties, tools, etc., which come under the head of this business. He imports all his own goods and does an extensive wholesale business. He established himself in this city in 1871, and by his en- terprise has built up a trade of which he can justly feel proud. 'His customers are from among the best ladies in the city. In addi- tion to his retail business he has a wholesale department and factory at No. 6 East Wash- ington street, occupying two large floors, where he employs about eighty hands. M. THOMK. Will supply the hair trade at his wholesale Hair Depot at 148 State street Send for price list J. W. GRISWOLD & CO., 244 AND 246 MONBOE STEEET. This firm are manufacturers and importers of cloaks, suits, cloakings and trimmings. They have been engaged in the business for over thirty years, and are therefore one of the oldest houses in the West During: the busy season 600 hands are employed, who prepare for the market a large and varied class of goods in this line which are sold in various parts of the West and Northwest. The firm report this one of the most pros- perous years in the history of their business. Nos. 244 and 246 Monroe street is their locatiou. SAFES AND SCALES. HALL'S SAFE A>'1) LOCK COMPANY. PEBFECT SECUEITT. The devastation of the elements and the criminal enterprise and ingenuity of the mid- night thief constantly jeopardize and menace the security of capital. No desideratum, therefore, is of greater importance to the merchant and banker than knowledge of the fact that their possessions are in absolute safety. This certain assurance can be met with in the thoroughly reliable fire and burglar proof safes manufactured by the Hall Safe and Lock Company. For thirty-six years Mr. Joseph L. Hall, the President of the company, has been earnestly engaged in studying and perfecting their safes and locks, over 300 patents having been granted to him by the United States Government His efforts have been crowned with marked and triumphant success, and the reward of superiority has long been unanimously awarded to their products. Among the leading and vital features of merit which place their safes so pre-emi- nently above those of all competitors may be mentioned their system of dovn-tailing the plates around the edges of the door, superior bolt work, the patent traverse and cant hinge, solid steel bent or angle wrnrrx, tight and compact joint*, constructing the walls of alternate plates of iron and carbonized steel, detached eccentric arbor, patent concrete filling, and many other important points of great value. All their safes and looks are simple in con- struction, elegant in finish, easi-y operated, and combine in the highest degree beauty, utility, and strength (.the hand of iron under the glove of silk). Mr. Joseph L. Hall established the business CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 97 at Cincinnati in 1845 originally upon a cap- ital of $50,000. The company now have $800.000 invested, and their works are the largest of their kind in the world. The vast buildings, which are built in a substantial manner of stone and brick, coyer eight acres of ground, in which 1,365 skilled workmen are employed, who build sixty-five complete safes every day; 800,000 pounds of iron and 450,000 pounds of steel enter into the man- ufacture and are consumed each month. Their business is colossal, branch houses, each with a large stock, being located at New- York, Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, Pitts- burg, Cleveland, Louisville, St." Louis. St. Paul, Kansas City, Omaha, Denver, San Francisco, and New Orleans. The Chicago branch, at No. 67 Washington street, was established in 1867, and under the capable and energetic management of C. 0. Hall and J. W. Donnell is second only to the parent house in the extent and "im- portance of its trade. Any information de- sired by bankers, jewelers, merchants, and others in regard to their goods will meet with immediate and courteous attention by addressing the Chicago house. B. F. SMITH. BTTRQLAB AND FIRE-PROOF SAFES. Mr. B. F. Smith, ereneral agent for Hosier, Bahmann & Co. 's Fire and Burglar Proof Safes, at No. 58 Dearborn street, Chicago, III , rep- resents one of the oldest and best known safe manufacturers in this country, with a reputation that has become world-wide. Mosler, Bahmann STEEI, COMPANY. A GEEAT AND GBOWIKG INTEBEST. This region can never be anything else but solid for a protective tariff when it sees in operation such vast work-shops as those at South Chicago (Cummings), belonging to this company, and realizes that but for that guard- ianship of home industry against foreign pau- perized labor, one thousand pairs of willing hands to take the specific case of this com- pany and its pay-roll would be thrown out of employment. The iron interest is one of the most important in this manufacturing center of the Northwest, and its prosperity or ruin are questions it is not too strong to say of almost vital concern to the general well be- ing. With such convictions, not less sincerely entertained for being somewhat overlaid by wonder at the vast establishment spread out to view, THE INTER OCEAN man recently sur- veyed these works and their army of con- 102 CHICAGO'S FIEST HALF CENTURY. teated toilers, adding blow by blow, whether by their own arms or by machinery, to the wealth of the coun- try. As stated. not less than 1,000 men are employed by the company, and their muscle is supplemented immeasurably by the ponderous machinery. The works consist of a blast furnace of the first rank, yielding a molten product of 35,- 000 tons per annum; a splendidly equipped rolling mill, containing 1 four trains of rolls for manufacturing" merchant iron and nail plate, the ponderous machinery flattening out to the right shape not less than 40,000 tons annually of finished iron, which includes some sixty tons of nail plate a day, or rather night and day, for the mills are run constantly, the giant chimneys sustaining a dense pillar of cloud by day, like that before the itinerant Israelites, and of fire by night, so luminous that the land- mark, or, rather, sky-mark, is visible for miles around, and m the immediate, region supplants the moon; four open-hearth steel furnaces (Siemen's), with a capacity of 12,- 000 tons per annum; a nail factory, the largest in the Northwest, finishing 7,500 kegs a week, of all sizes, assorted, and yield- ing an annual output of 325,000 kegs of nails, or nearly 1.000 kegs a day a great yield indeed, but needed to meet the corre- spondingly large pay-roll and, be it added, needed also to compensate the ear-split visitor for the bedlam of the wonderful machinery that ham- mers out so lightning-like your kegful of one-penny, two-penny, three-peeny nails, up to the largest spikes that ever were driven by sledges; and last, but not least, the works embrace a new branch only just introduced, the manufacture of steel castings, a depart- ure that promises soon to be one of the prom- inent features of the works. The quality of the company's goods, like their advantages for doing business indeed consequent thereon is of the very best, foundry pig iron, merchant iron and nails, with the brand "Calumet" being well-known as standard. As to their prime facilities for doing- business and so competing successfully in prices, to begin with, both their fuel and ore arrive by water, the latter direct from the Lake Superior region, while the Belt Line Railroad runs right into the works, and delivers cars the following day to any railroad going out of Chicago. In short, to end with as to begin, Chicago is the site of these works Chicago, mistress of manufactures, a distributing as well as re- ceiving point with no equal in this country. The officers of the Calumet Iron and Steel Company are Mr. C. E. Cummings, President; Mr. D. C." Bradley. Vice President and General Manager; and Mr. J. M. Brown, Secretary and Treasurer. Office, First National Bank Building, Dearborn and Monroe streets, Chicago. N. A. WILLIAMS. 219 WASHINGTON STEEET, manufacturer and dealer in sewer pipe, fire brick, drain tile, cement, fire clay, ground brick, chimney tops, chimney-flue linings, plaster, and fine sand, has been established in business in this city since 1869. The material he offers is superior to any that can be found in this or any other market. Akron sewer pipe is handled exclusively by liim. He sold the first pipe ever manufact- ured bv Akron pipe-makers, in 1857. It is a standard pipe, and is indorsed by the city government. He deals larg'ely in fire brick. and his stock is composed of the best brands in this country, -which have been thor- oughly tested by most of the large manufacturers, and have given satisfaction. It includes the Mount Savage, manufactured in Maryland; the Scioto Star, in Portsmouth, Ohio, and others equally celebrated. He ships large quantities of sewer pipe and brick throhgh the West and Northwest, and, in fact, to all parts of the United States. His largest sales are in Akron sewer-pipe, and then conies brick, tile ce- ment, fire clay, chimney tops, plaster, fine sand, etc. Business has prospertid with him to a remarkable degree, and in- creased 20 per cent this year He is the old- est firm in this line m the city, well known as a first-class business man, and is prompt, and whatever he recommends may be relied on. His stock is always large, and parties wishing to purchase should call and examine it before buying elsewhere. THE VAN DEPOELE ELECTRIC LIGHT. A SUPEBIOB LIGHT. The superiority of electric lighting over other methods of artificial illumination are so incontestible an patent to all that a dis- cussion regarding its merits is superfluous. The question to be decided is which electric light or sys- tem is the best from all points of view. The writer of this article, after long ex- amination and close observation, feels warranted in stating that the arc lamps and dynamos manu- factured under the Van Depoele patents possess in the highest desrree of excellence the requirements of a. perfectly reliable and steady means of elec- tric lighting. The reasons to be given for this claim are -imple and decisive and consists in the extreme simplicity of construction in all parts of the system, ease of management, perfect safety, readi- ness of control and the incomparable perfection of the white and steady light obtained, alight so pure, soft and white that photo- graphs have been taken thereby in nine seconds, rivalling the sun 111 the length of time required for ex- posure. The means by which these important and vital results have been accomplished con sists: 1. In the peculiar disposition of the nela magnets, and great compactness, and above CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 103 all the greatest volume of working current for the least amount of power. 2. That any number or all of the lights may be turned off or on as desired with the same ease of gas, the current regulating it- self to the work to be done. A brief description of the principle parts of the dynamo may be of interest to our readers. The Field Magnets con- sists of two large coils of cop- per wire wound around two soft iron cores, their north and south poles fac- ing each other; The armature, which forms the most important part of the machine, con- sists of a frame made of a number of iron bars, each separated from the other. These bars are riveted to the inner and outer peri- phery of two metal rings, several of these rings being placed between the inner and outer layer of iron bars. And finally the rings and bars are riveted together so as to form a solid frame. The commutator is made of a large number of copper sections securely held together and connected to the coils of the armacure. The brushes and their holders are maae in a substantial manner, and are easily handled and adjusted. The lamp has few parts, does not get out of order, is ornamental, compact, and is so insulated thai it can be handled in perfect security. Even with the largest machines, any lamp or any t>art of the circuit may be touched with impunity, an accident having never yet been met with through the current of their machines, something which very few companies can boast of. The Van Depoele plant is sold outright, no royalty being demanded. Tnis system com- pares favorably with anything ndw on the market as regards cost and prices; they do not ask 30 per cent of the stock, nor make reservations of any kind; it is a bona fide outright sale of lamps and machinery. We invite cities and towns to correspond with them, ana investigate their system be- fore purchasing elsewhere, believing that careful investigation will demonstrate that they have the most perfect system of elec- tric lighting now offered to the public. Cat- alogue and prices furnished on application. The officers of the companv are Norman T. Gassette, President; Theo. 1? Bailey, Secre- tary; and C. J. Van Depoele, Electrician. The main warerooms and factory are located at 203 and 205 Van Buren street, Chicago, IlL J. S. KIRK & CO. "CLEANLINESS IS NEXT TO GODLINESS. " These well-known soap manufacturers have during the past year made vast strides in the extent and scope of their trade, and have placed their popular products in every city, town, village, and hamlet in the United States. Their knowledge and skill in creating a fine article has been derived from long ex- perience, patient investigation, and a critical discrimination of the wants of the market. Mr. J. S. Kirk, thf> founder of this house, began making soap at Utica, N. Y., in 1839 and has continued in the business ever since. The sons, Messrs. James A. , John B. , M. W. , andW. F. Kirk, are ably assisting their father in the management of the business, and are constantly directing their skilled experience to the exigencies and demands of the busi- ness. The firm began operations in Chicago in 1859, and the constant and steady growth of their business attests the genuine merit and value of their soaps, and is one of the most surprising and marvelous examples of the sudden rise to greatness which is so char- acteristic of Chicago, and the career of its representative business men. The factory is located at 342 to 370 North Water street, this city, and is a substantial brick edifice 120x240 feet in dimensions, and six stories in height, the motive power being furnished by a 1,400 horse power engine, the steam being supplied by twelve large steel boilers. Nearly GOO hands are constantly engaged in creating soap and perfumery in order that their fellow creatures may be clean and sweet. A saw-mill in Michigan is owned by the firm, the entire output of lumber being consumed in making the boxes required. Sixty million pounds of soap was manufac- tured and sold by this house during the past year, the factory running day and night in order to ship sales promptly. The most popular brands of soaps are the Zenithia, Commonwealth, Calumet Bouquet, Palama Eosa, Fine Palm, Turtle Oil, and Windsor, in toilet products, and their laun- dry soaps are standard upon our market, nothing but the best tallow and oils being used in any of their goods. With the most improved and modern machinery and appli- ances, together with anxious and watchful attention to the details of their business, this house has built up a patronage which is sec- ond to none in this country. Every grade of goods, from the cheapest washing to the most delicate toilet soaps, is produced. The perfumery department, though a comparatively new feature, is equipped with the utmost completeness, and the extracts which they bottle are taking the lead in popularity, the delicacy, purity,- and strength of these goods have recom- mended them to the attention of a critical public, the Zenithia and Palestine Lily being the results of new discoveries in the com- pounding of essences, while their Lavender, Jockey Club, and Ylaug Ylang waters are meeting with an unprecedented sale. On the whole, we know of no soap manufacturer in the country that brings a more consummate knowledge and ripened experience into the business than the gentlemen connected with this firm. They have their eyes on the wants of the American people, and seem to have fully met and satisfied their demands for a fine, honest soap at prices that compare most favorably with any other establishment of the kind in the United States. WESTERN BRICK AND TILE COMPANY. AN OLD INDUSTBY IN A MEW GUISE. The manufacture of brick is one of the oldest of human industries, and from time immemorial this material has been highly popular with buildera There were reasons for this popularity; in the first place, the clay could be molded into a form convenient for handling by the workmen, or fashioned to meet any exigency of architecture, with- out the expense incident to carving wood, or the more lasting blocks of stone; but the chief reason remains to be assigned, the easily formed squares and oblongs of clay, when properly finished by drying or burning, were found to be moro durable than anything else from which could be constructed. Thp 104 CHICAGO'S FIKST HALF CENTURY. truth of this last statement is abundantly proved by the remains of Roman brick work which are scattered over various parts of Englond, and by the still more ancient ruins of brick-built structures which, in our own times, have been exhumed from the shapeless mounds that mark the sites of Babylon and Nmevan. All these relics of the almost for- gotten past bear unmistabable evidence that the brick is something which is pretty nearly imperishable. There have been of course many and great improvements in the methods of manufacturing brick since the days when the unfortunate children of Israel made them under Pharaoh's taskmasters in the land of Egypt but these can- not be described, or even mentioned, in a trade review article for lack space. This, however, may be born in mind, the ease with which clay can be molded into any desired form, and the dura- bility as well as the cheapness of good brick as building material, are points which have never been lost sight of by inventors, and the Patent Office at Washington will show not only a world of complicated, expensive machinery for grinding and molding the clay, but innumerable devices also in the way of kilns for burning it into a marketable condition after it had been properiy fash- ioned. To Colonel W. L. Gregg, of Phila- delphia, belongs the Honor, beyond a doubt, of inventing the most perfect machinery for the manufacture of brick, and especially or pressed brick, which ha ever been submitted to the inspection of the public, and of transforming a rude craft into a fine art It is literally true that brick making at least as practiced in Chicago in this present year of grace by the Western Brick and Tile Company has advanced from a craft to an art, and first-class, artistic tal- ent is in constant employ moreover by the company above referred to, to design the novelties in shape which are destined to adorn the fronts of suburban cottages and of the palatial city residences. Heretofore machine-made brick have been objected to by many leading architects for the reason that they were unequal in size, finish, and density, and rery often deficient in strength. These objections have all been anticipated and obviated by Colonel Gregg's wonderful machinery, which em- braces no less than ten different patents, and represent years of patient inventive toil The brick manufactured by his processes are simply perfect. They received the highest award at the American Centennial of 1876, at the Paris International Exposition of 1878, and at various prominent State and inter- State expositions of a late date. In fine, they are conceded to be the best in quality and appearance on the market, and have been designated for use in the construction of government works afterhavinar been sub- mitted to the most severe tests by Lieuten- ant Colonel Gillmore, of the United States Engineers, and by the supervising architect jf the new Treasury building at Washington. They were found capable of sustaining the enormous pressure of 100,000 pounds to the square inch. The Western Brick and Tile Company, which is now manufacturing this descrip- tion of building material for the Chicago market, was establisned in 1883, with head- quarters at Galewood, about nine miles from this city, where one of the finest clay depos- its in the country was discovere I a few months before. The company has u capita! of $500,000, and is officered as follows: Homer Pennock, President. D. K. Tripp, Vice President A. W. Penney, Secretary. Edward Koch, Treasurer. Colonel W. L. Gregg, General Manager. The main works, which was built for the pur pose, is a spacious two-story building, 20Ox 100 feet in dime r.lons. It is capable of turn ing out 200,000 of the finest and most ar- tistically perfect brick per day, and in the coming spring such additional machinery will be supplied as will double its manufac- turing capabilities. It is now imming night and day to fill its orders, and has already taken rank as one of the leading industries of Chicago. The office of the company is at No. 53 Dearborn street THE CHICAGO WIRE AND IKON WORKS, LOCATED AT 110 LAKE STREET. report business in their line as having been unusually good during the past oeason. While they have been in the business under the above name only since last April, the working organiza- tion is an old one in Chicago, formerly being the wire railing department of the Clinton Wire Cloth Company. Since the new organ- ization their business has been largely ex- tended. They make to order or keep in stock a full line of plain and ornamental wire- work wire cloth, all kinds of wire, sheet brass, tubing and ornamental brasswork; also, stable fittings, vases, settees, crestings and finials, tower ornaments and weather vanes. They make a specialty of wrought iron fences for private residences, public buildings, parks, etc. ; also, tubular fences for cemeteries, etc. They employ about 100 workmen in Chicago, and as the Western branch of the E. T. Barnum Wire and Iron Works, represent a manufacturing capacity of over 1,000 men, with tbe most approved machinery, distributed over a floor area of over 200.000 square feet. The illustrated catalogues of this company are the most complete ever issued, covering almost the en- tire list of articles made of wire and iron, and as an aid to satisfactory selection are be- yond comparison. CLEVELAND CO-OPERATIVE STOVE CO. 201 AND 203 LAKE STREET. The Chicago branch of this well-known stove house, located at 201 and 203 Laka street, has become one of the leaders in the stove industry throughout the Northwest. The causes of their popularity lies in the fact that the class of goods manufactured by this company combine in a high degree all the es- sential elements that go to make a durable, elegant, and reliable stove. The factories of the company are located at Cleveland. Ohio. We venture to say that no stove manufactory in the country brings to bear more skilled experience and judg- ment into their profession than the gent.e- meu composing this company. The Telephone Range and Elberon Heater, two new patterns which they have recently added to their lines, possess" features of nov- elty and excellence not often met with. CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 105 .These creations, while being very popular, are at fche same time the most magnificent and perfect expression of legitimate stove- plate decoration that has yet been displayed on this market. With branch offices at Indianapolis, St. Louis, and St. Paul, this company have placed themselves and their products high in the estimation of the American public by the matchless virtues of honest dealing, low prices, and prompt delivery. CRANE BROTHERS' MANUFACTURING COMPANY report a largely increased business during the past year and collections satisfactory. Prices were remunerative the first part of the year, but declined the latter part, owing to the depression in the iron market, which is the more remarkable as the demand for goods has not fallen off. They manufacture steam and hydraulic elevators, which are in general use and very popular; steam engines, steam pumps, steam goods, engine trim- mings, and wrought-iron pipe of all descrip- tions, having two mills for that purpose, the lap-weld pipe mill being very large and run to its full capacity. They make specialties of cast-iron and malleable fittings of all kinds, and brass and iron valves and cocks for steam, gas, and water. These works, cover- ing almost a square on Jefferson and Des- plaines street, give employment to 1,200 men. It is one of the largest houses in its line in the West, and occupies a very con- spicuous place among the leading manufac- turing industries of the West BURLINGTON MANUFACTURING CO. MABBLES. The Burlington Manufacturing Company, at the corner of Michigan avenue and Van Buren street, are extensive manufacturers and producers of marble in the form of floor tiling, mantels, wainscoting, monuments, and all kinds of interior and exterior ornamen- tation and decoration. Tney aim to secure the best grades of marble from beds of vari- ous geological formations and structure, possessing a fineness of texture and purity of shading that tit it for tne choicest works of decoration and even for the sculptor; of grades held in the highest estimation by those familiar with this rock. Their experi- ence and their determination to use none but the best material has enabled them to secure a large patronage. Their trade ex- tends through the West and Northwest, and elsewhere to some extent. THOMAS OOUGAJOL. BECOBD OF THIBTY-FIVE YEABS. At Noa 35 to 41 Cedar street we find the extensive establishment of Thomas Dougall. This gentleman first engaged in the manu- facture of soap in Chicago thirty-five year ago, and no other laundry soap ever placed upon the market in this country has given more universal or continued satisfaction His leading brands are the "American Laun- dry," ''German Fine Laundry," and Chemical Erasive. His soaps are sold in large quanti- ties all over the West and at prices that defy competition. In his factory is used the lat- est and most improved machinery, so that his soap is manufactured at the least Dossi- ble expense. Mr. Dougall reports his trade constantly on the increase and his business in a satisfactory condition. SPIELMAN BROS. COMPBESSED YEAST AND VINEGAB. Among the thriving enterprises of Chicago may be mentioned that of Messrs. Spielman Bros., manufacturers of compressed yeast and vinegar. This firm, located at 103 East Erie street, has been compelled by their in- crease of trade to seek larger quarters, and are now located at Nos. 93 to 99 North ave- nue, also running their Erie street estab- lishment. This firm was established in 1879, on a small scale, and are now the largest manufacturers of their kind of goods in America. They make white wine vinegar, and, with their increased facilities, are un- able to keep up with their ordera Their yeast is known as the Chicago Compressed Yeast, and is being used by large bakers and the leading grocers of the citv. They have lately made extensive additions and improvements, which enables them in a measure to keep pace with their thriving business. We wish them merited success. JPURTEI,!,, HANNAN & CO. NICKEL PLATEBS. The members of this firm are practical workmen, and herein lies the secret of their success, for they have certainly been success- ful, and have grown in importance steadily ana surely year by year, until they are now one of the most prominent firms in their line of business in Chicago. They make a specialty of fine and durable work, and pay great at- tention to stair and balcony railings. They also do an immense amount of work for the palace-car companies. Door plates, carriage plating, and carriage name plates are also di- rectly in their line of business, and have re- cently added uickel-plating, bronzing, dip- ping, lacquering, polishing, and grinding to their extensive works. This firm is licensed by the United nickel Company, of New York. They are at present located at No. 60 South Canal street, prepared to increase their busi- ness materially during 1884. J. J. WIL.SON. THE ABBOW BBAND. Mr. Wilson first engaged in the vinegar rade in Chicago in 1865 and in the pickle business in 1876, naming his pickles the "Arrow Bran'd," which has been registered as this trade mark. His pickles and kindred goods are well and favorably known through- out the country and give universal satisfac- tion to the trade. Mr. Wilson reports a steady increase of trade year bv year. His office and factory are locate'd at Nos. 12 and 14 North Clinton street, Chicago, and his salting works at Crystal Lake, Illinois. PRUSSIXG VINEGAR WORKS. STBICTLY PUBE GOODS. Among the pioneer industries of Chicago are the well-known Trussing Vinegar Works, 106 CHICAGO'S FIEST HAT/F CENTUBY, founded by Mr. Chas. G. E. Pressing in 1848. These works occupy the block bounded by Clark, LaSalle, Twenty-fourth, and Twenty- fifth streets, and are the oldest works of the kind in America, as also the most complete and extensive in the world, their daily ca- pacity being 400 brls. A visit to this estab- lishment reminds one of the famous old breweries of England, as there may be seen faithful and reliable workmen grown from vouth to old ape in the service of the Pruss- Ing, and to this system is due much of the reliability and uniform purity of Prussing's vinegar, which has so many years brought Joy to the hearts of prudent housewives, who pride themselves on the crispness and flavor of the toothsome pickJe. THE YOUNG & FARREL DIAMOND STONE-SAWING COMPANY'S Works on Twelfth and Lumber streets, Chi- cago (see cut), are most complete and admir- able; it is said, indeed, they have not their equal in the world. They cover an area of about thxee acres, and include many won- company feel confident of building up a mag- nificent business by helping to build up and embellish these magnificent cities of the great West. The officers are Franklin Farrel, President ; Hugh Young, Secretary and Treasurer; Fer- dinand V. Gindele. Manager, and Robert C. Harper, Superintendent. They are exceed- ingly gratified with the liberal patronage of architects, builders, and the public hereto- fore accorded them, and are determined to deserve the continuance and increase of the same. THE AIXEN PAPER CAR-WHEEI, CO. A WHEEL THAT IS ABSOLUTELY SAFE. The science of railroading owes a great deal of its advancement and progress to this celebrated wheel, which has been tried and found to perform all that is claimed for it The core of the Allen car-wheel consists of straw board compressed by hydraulic power of 5, 000 to ns. The centers are encircled by heavy steel tires of the most perfect and ex- pensive manufacture. The paper, in the center of which rests the iron hub, is encased derfully effective machines, such as over- head travelers, power and hand cranes, dia- mond saws, planers, rubbing beds, lathes, etc., for handling, sawing, dressing, polish- ing 1 , and turning the different kinds of build- ing stone. The business of the company is the fur- nishing and erection of cut stone, whether plain, molded, or carved, for private dwell- ings, business blocks, churches, court houses, schools, bridges, and the like, and it makes a specialty also of planed sidewalks.. It is the sole agent in the West for several of the most interesting and valuable stones, of which we may mention the red Scotch stone, known as Corsehill, so popular in the East- ern cities, and the celebrated and attractive Brinton green stone of Pennsylvania, already such a favorite in Chicago. The company owns the patents for Young's diamond saws and for other machines used in its business, and has a branch establish- ment at Mott Haven, New York City, spec- ially devoted to their manufacture and sale. By reason of abundant capital, extraordinary facilities, and long experience in every part of their business; oy promptness, good work, and reasonable charges, the officers of this eii side-plates of wrought iron', the combination of steel, paper, and iron being so securely held together as to be incapable of separation in any considerable accident. Safety and durability result as a natural con- sequence. As high as 200,000 miles have been obtained from these wheels without turning the tire, and 800.000 miles without renewing the tire. The economy of the wheel in every way is established. The Allen Paper Car-wheel Company, of which Mr. A. G, Darwin is President, are operating exten- sive works at Pullman. Morris, ILL, and Hud- son, N. Y., which nave an annual production of 25,000 wheela These wheels are in use under most of the sleeping, parlor, chair, and dining cars, and many of the first-class coaches upon all the principal railways in this country. SMOKK CONSUMPTION A SUCCESSFUL PATENT. Smoke consumption has at last reached a stage of development which places it among the assured successes of the age. This re- sult has been attained only after years of ex- perience and patient investigation and in- CHICAGO'S FIB8T TTAT.T? CENTUEY. 107 quiry. There are numerous devices upon the market which make great claims to ef- fectiveness and superiority, but after thor- ough research we have found but one device which effectually accomplishes the result sought, and in this device all the objections seem to have been met and overcome with consummate skill and completeness, and the theory that smoke cannot be consumed is ex- ploded as is most emphatically attested by the daily operation of the HUTCHINSON SMOKE AND SPAKK BUKNKB. We find about 2,200 of these machines in successful operation on locomotives, tugs, and all manner of stationary furnaces, tne number exceeding all other smoke consum- ers combined. In no case has this device been found wanting in reliability, durability, or effectiveness. It is simply an air-feeding device, and the fireman can supply his furnace with air in the same manner he does his boiler with water, by the use of an injector. They will attach the device to any locomotive, tug, or other furnace at their own expense, and de- monstrate all they claim for them before pre- senting their bill for payment Address, for particulars. 103 Adams "street, Chicago. GOSS & PHILLIPS MFG. CO. SASH, DOOBS, ETC. In the development of the Northwest, sash, doors, and house-furnishing materials are joyed such extended patronage as the Goss & Phillips Manufacturing Company. While this company continues in business the con- sumer will always have an assurance of get- ting good value for their money. They are now giving particular attention to hardwood finishings. A visit to their establishment would well repay the visitor for the time thus spent. FULLER AND WAKREN COMPANY. THE BEST STOVES. The Clinton Stove Works, at Troy, N. Y. , were established in 1831 for the manufacture of stoves, furnaces, and ranges, and by dint of careful attention to the details of their business, have extended their trade through- out the American continent and all parts of the civilized world. The establishment occu- pies an area of six acres of ground, with sub- stantial buildings fully equipped with the latest modern appliances for the production of stoves, and tneir facilities are unquestion- ably without rival in the stove industry. Their goods, of all kinds, are undoubtedly superior in every minutiae, both in con- struction and finish. In 1862 the Chicago branch was established, and is one of the pioneers in the Western stove trade, with sales-room at 56 Lake street; and an immense reserve stock in storage at their great ware- house in this city places them in position to important ( 'a?tirs toward which the above firm has contributed very largely. Thus, in its business as a well-managed and success- ful lumber-manufacturing company, has done much toward the progress of the great West. Their great establishment, on the corndr of Fisk and Twenty-second streets, is one of the landmarks of the lumber district, and is equipped with the most approved ma^ cbinery. Their facilities for manufacturing and shipping are unsurpassed in this great lumber market of the world. Here mav be found at all times, every style of goods in their line, from the plainest to the most elaborate. Few establisnments have en- meet all demands of trade promptly. Imme- diate attention to orders, elegant, durable, reliable goods, close prices, and prompt ship- ments are the causes which have placed the Chicago branch, second only in the extent oj its trade to the parent house. Send for their catalogue which will be mailed free to anv address upon application. THE WESTERN LEATHER MANUFACTUEING COMPANY. Nos. 76 and 78 Wabash avenue. This is one of the great manufacturing concerns of the West, and its goods, particularly dressing cases, sample cases, medicine cases, and leather collar atd cuff boxes many of which are protected by patents have a high repu- 108 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. tation the country over.' Whatever is neat, tasty, and artistic in the way of fancy leather goods is made by this establishment, and cannot be excelled" in quality or finish in the United States. Descriptive price-lists sent to the trade upon application, A. H. ANDREWS & CO., COBNEB W ABASH AVENUE AND ADAMS, report a constant 'increase in the volume of their business, their sales being considerably over one million in their departments of Bank Counters, Office and School Desks, Opera Chairs, Church Seating. Globes, Maps, and their specialty, the "Andrews Folding Beds.'' The well-known quality of their goods and the reputation of the house have combined to crowd them with orders. BEMIS & M-AVOY, BREWERS. The goods manufactured by this firm have a reputation co- extensive with the United States. The house does an enormous busi- ness and counts its customers by the thous- and. I/UMBER. HOLBROOK & CO. HABDWOOD LUMBEB. One of the most extensive, and the oldest in point of continued existence, firms deal- ing exclusively in hardwood lumber in Chi cago is Messrs. Holbrook & Co. , located at the corner of Eighteenth and Grove streets. It was established there in 1853, and has oc- cupied the same premises ever since. They deal in all kinds of hardwood lumber suit- able for the use of bridge and warehouse builders, furniture manufacturers, interior and. exterior finishing, and for whatever uses hardwood lumber may be wanted. They ob- tain their supplies mainly from Michigan, Indiana, and the South, or wherever their judgment, based on thirty years of experi- ence, tells them the best grades of hardwood lumber can be obtained. Their business ex- tends throughout the West, Northwest, and to some extent in the East. They have track and other facilities for shipping 'in and out, which are unsurpassed by any similar con- cern in the country. During their long and uninterruptedly fair and honorable business career they have acquired a reputation for dealing advantageously and squarely, which few firms in business as long attain and re- tain. HAMILTON & MERRYMAN COMPANY, LtJMBKB DKALEBS. Loomis and Twenty-second streets. The business of this company expresses exactly those methods which have made this city the greatest Ivimber market of the world. Be- ginning with the ownership of the land on which the pine tree grows, every operation in the process of preparing it for use and putting it on the market is conducted at the smallest possible expense and under one management. The mills of this company are at Marinette, Wis., where they have sawed 25,000, OQO feet the past year. From the mills to the yards in Chicago" the lumber is transported in their own vessels and landed at their spacious dock, where at one handling it can be placed on the cars. Thus this company is prepared to offer their cus- tomers lumber on which there is but one profit from the growing tree to the prepared article. CHAPTER XI. CHICAGO'S SUBURBS. THE UNION STOCK YARDS. HISTORICAL. The entire system of all the railways East and West center here, making the Union Stock Yards the most accessible in the conn- try for both buyer and seller The large capacity of the yards, the facilities for un- loading, feeding, and reshipping have been kept up to the requirements of the wondrous growth of this market. The elevated drive- ways and viaduct system have been pushed forward on such a grand scale as to render the economic handling of the stock from all divisions more convenient than at any other period in the history of the yards. These great roadways and stock drives, connecting with the city of packing-houses, are direct and wonderf.ully complete. Ten times as much stock can be more rapidly and con- veniently handled here at present than could be done ten years ago, while the banking interest conducts the volume of two hun- dred millions of annual business that obtains here now with fewer complications and less red tape than was required to handle ten millions when these yards were in their infancy. Then it required the personal indorsement and as- surance, at great risk, of the management and their friends to bring Eastern money here to conduct this great brancn of commerce. Now it flows through in such a wave that the tide will ever be irresistible. Much has been written and said upon the subject to whom belongs the credit of concentrating in Chi- cago this branch of commerce, through which flows the cumulative wide Western wealth in its fullest volume. The proposition is plain and of easy solution. To those energetic spir- its belongs the chief credit that gathered the nucleus and rounded into form this grand combination of united interests, and then sagaciously directed the enterprise until it has become a rock-rooted institution of Mid- dle America, adjunctive to the civilized world. It can be said beyond a cavil or doubt that the business facilities afforded by the UNION STOCK YARD AND TRANSIT COMPANY to the live stock ma'-Ket of Chicago has been one of the chief factors in the grand agri- cultural development of the great West. From the foundation of this market up to the present the same management nave bent their indefatigable energy to the accomplish- ment of a great purpose ; how well they have succeeded is known in every land and lauded in every language, until the guide-book of the foreign visitor is incomplete that does not include tne great Union Stock Yards and its city of packing-houses, wherein is prepared the mostwholesome and richest of human food which is sent to feed the millions throughout the world. The first stock yard founded in Chicago, that attracted Eastern capitalists to this market as a live stock supply point, was managed by John B. Sherman, who was the chief spirit in organizing the present Union Stock Yards, and has been actively identified with its management ever since. These yards were constructed in the year 1865, and were opened for business Dec. 25 of the same year. The company now owns about a section of land, and over one hun- dred miles of railroad track, making a transit through the city, and running around and through different parts of the yards, all laid with steel rails, connecting with all the rail- roads centering in Chicago. Within an in- closure of 360 acres are constructed the TRANSIT HOUSE at a cost of J$250,000, which is furnished first-class and is kept second to none in the country, charges to stockmen being only $2 per day, or 50 cents per meal. In the center of the yards is a large two-story -and-a-half building 60x380, with large wings extend- ing south from either end, doubling the ca- pacity of the main building. This is known, as the Exchange Buildinsr, and is divided up as follows: Large Board of Trade hall, main offices for Stock Yards Company, Superin- tendent's, Secretary's, and Treasurer's offices, telegraph and telephone offices, postoffice, restaurant 60x80, spacious saloon, packers' offices, offices for Eastern shippers, barber shop, news stand, fruit stand, and about 150 offices for commission merchants who take charge of and sell stock consigned to them; the Union Stock Yards National Bank building. 40x60; twenty large hay barns, as many more large corn cribs, twenty scale-houses, each containing one of Fairbank's improved scales with a capacity for weighing three or four car-loads of cattle or hogs at a draft; machine shops, depot buildings, print- ing office, and two dozen other buildings used to transact business pertaining to the receiving and shipping live stock, including the grand new horse sales stables and the ex- perimental fat-stock barn that is always re- plete with an assortment of different breeds of cattle. The water supply is furnished through the regular waterworks and a half- dozen artesian wells, a standpipe, surrounded by a tower 150 high, into which the water is 110 CHICAGO'S FIKST HALF CENTURY. forced by a powerful engine and pumps be- ing on the spot. Cable and telegraphic market reports from London, Liverpool, New York, Boston, Phila- delphia, Baltimqre, Cincinnati, Buffalo. East Liberty, Albany, and other markets both East and West are received here, and reports of this market are telegraphed each day to all Eastern cities, Europe, and through com- mission firms to all parts of the Western States and Territories. Over 250 acres of land are under plank and constructed as follows: About 150 acres are in cattle yards and about 100 acres of covered hog and sheep pens; 2,000 cattle pens sufficient to yard 25,000 cattle; 1,500 hog pens sufficient to hold 200,000 hogs; 300 sheep pens that will accommodate 15,- OOOBheep; stabling for 2,500 horses; 2,000 car-loads of stock can be unloaded and taken care of daily; over 20 miles of macadamized streets run through different parts of the yards, and over 50 miles of water and drain- age pipes, forming a perfect network, run underneath the yards. There are about 10 miles of viaducts and elevated roadway. Nearly 1,000 men are constantly employed throughout the different departments. Al- though the contributors to this market cover the territory from British Columbia to Old Mexico, and the intermediate country, at no single season since the foundation of the yards has there has been as many strange shippers on this market as during the past year, and the natural supposition is that with the rapid development of the West now going on this will continue. If those unacquainted with the manner of doing business here are desir- ous of patronizing this market, if they will address a letter of inquiry or call on the Sec- retary at his office in the yards, he will with pleasure give the information that will ena- ble any stranger to become thoroughly posted 'respecting the market and the man- ner of doing business here. All stock con- signed to these yards, whether in charge of man or not, will receive prompt attention and as good care as though the owner him- self were along to see to it, as all the men in the employ of the Stock Yard Company are experienced in the handling ana cafe of stock. The volume of business during the past year will exceed two hundred millions. In another place will be found the commer- cial report giving the business statistics of this market since its foundation. The following-named gentlemen are the officers of the above corporation : Nathaniel Thayer, President; John B. Sherman, Vice President and General Manager; G. Titus Williams, General Superintendent; George T. Williams, Secretary and Treasurer; J. C. Denison, Assistant Secretary. ARMOUR Sc CO. AN ENORMOUS BUSINESS. In almost every line of business there will be found men particularly suited to the undertakings in which they are engaged. They rise above and show themselves superior to the common run of business men, so that in the course of time they become leaders in their respective branches of trade. The suc- cesses of thee men in some instances is marvelous, and is often attributed to circum- stances and good luck. This rule, however, when the true facts in the case are t iken into consideration, will be found at fault, of which the firm whose name heads this article bears ample witness. The head of the firm Philip D. Armour, as is well known, started as a poor boy, and the fact that he now superintends and controls the largest busi- ness enterprise of its kind in Chicago is due to no freaks of luck or chance, but to the fact that he was possessed with an abund- ance of pluck and enterprise, added to which was the gift of a keen business sense, which aided him in taking advantage of oppor- tunities when offered. In the brief space al- lotted it would be impossible to give any- thing like a complete description of the im- mense business transacted by this firm during the past year Suffice it to say that their sales in the various branches show a marked increase over all previous years. For the year 1882 they slaughtered and shipped in refrigerator cars 120,000 head of cattle; for the year ending Nov. 1, 1883. their books show an increase of 131,000, making 251,000 in alL In addition to these over 1,020,000 head of hogs were killed and dressed for the market, their sales amounting to over $30 - 000,000. The excellent qualities of the prepared meats turned out by this firm are so well known throughout this country and Europe that it is scarcely deemed necessary to speak of them at length in a review of this kind. No better proof as to the good quality of their meats need be given than the constantly increasing demand made for them from year to year. In addition to their great Chicago establishment the firm has branch houses at Milwaukee and Kansas City. Both of the latter have done a large 'business (luring the last year. SOUTH BEND. O'BRIEN TARNISH "VfORKS. BLECTRIC PKEVUNO. Among the most promising manufactories of South Bend is the large and perfectly ar- ranged varnish works of Mr. P. O'Brien, the inventor of the Electric Priming, which has a popularity earned by far surpassing and completely revolutionizing all other sys- tems. These works have just been com- pleted, and they are the model ones in their line. A demand for the O'Brien brand of varnishes will be the result wherever these goods are known. THE COQUILLARD WAGON. THK FARMERS' FAVORITE. These wagons are made of the best wood and iron to be procured, and put together by the most experienced workmen. Every one i^ warranted to give satisfaction, both in regard to the quality of material and workmanship. CHICAGO'S FIRST TTAT.TT CENTUJRI. Ill They are also noted for their lightness of draft and ease of running. Carriages, bug- gies, and sleighs of superior workmanship always on hand. Send for circular and price list to A. Coquillard, South Bend, Ind. This manufactory is one of the best conducted and most successful in tne West Its owner is not only a superior business man, but also a practical, careful, and experienced mechanic, with a rare grasp of all that is nec- essary to perfection in mechanics. SISTERS OF THE HOI/IT CROSS. The cut below correctly represents the very superior school conducted by the Sis- ters of the Holy Cross at Notre Dame, Ind. A careful examination of this institution re- Teals a rery remarkable proficiency on the part of pupils. The course is most thorough. All of the studies that inform, refine, and mold the child into the finished woman are here given in their entirety. Graduates from St Mary's are fitted for teachers as few can of them are occupying 1 high positions in so- ciety. Others, as teachers, musicians, and artists, are receiving the praise of all who know them. Tne fullest information will be furnished freely. Apply for a catalogue PORTLAND CEMENT. AT SOUTH BEND. MUlen T D ACME CHURNS. THEIB MEKIT8. The above cut represents a churn that is simplicity itself, and yet it ranks first best with experienced butter-makers all over the West. Your representative visited the fac- tory at Rockford, and was astonished at the showing made by H. H. Palmer & Co., the owners of the patents for the Boss and Acme churns. Over forty thousand of these churns have been sold during the past year. They are made of the best white oak; and are kept sweet and clean with little care, because there are no corners in them or joints that can be opened with pressure. These churns have taken first premiums at the Illinois State Fair. They are used by such creameries as the Madison street creamery in Chicago, where 1,000 pounds of En re cream bu tter are made per day. The Kllowing indorsements speak for them- selves: "OLYMPIA, W. T., Feb. 9, 1883. Your churn takes well; everyone that sees it likes it I would not take four times what I paid for mine and do without until I could send and get another. In fact, I consider it a priceless treasure in my business. Respect- fully, ' MRS. C. G. TYLER." One agent writes us from Clinton, Mo., under date of Sept. 4. 1883: 4% J. R. Camp- lin. dairyman, has used the Little Boss, Rectangular, Union, and Cylinder churns, and is now using the H. H. Palmer rofess to furnish their gas to consumers at$l., Mr. Kinsley desired Mr Watkins to make a con- tract for three years at their present price. 118 CHICAGO'S FIEST HALF CENTtJRl. which he refused. He was more than ever, since that interview, impressed with the belief that the old monopoly was a tricky concern irresponsible and faithless. They would bear close watching. They had en- deavored to Dlay the freeze-out game but were themselves frozen. The citizens should compare their bills now and in the future and they would find a large-sized and ever-growing Ethiopian in the wood- pile. MAHLER & GALES on South Clark street, were next collared by the impetuous reporter and were asked for their opinion; as usual they confirmed what had been sai d by other citizens. The new ga save splendid satisfaction, and was a wel- come relief. Last month's bill of their firm had been exactly double that of November in 1882 although they were using the same quantity of gas. The old company were worse than highway robbers, because the one faced their victims boldly and demanded their purses, w~ile this band of cormorants lifted the left hand to heaven in a prayerful and sanctimonious attitude while with the right hand they dove down deep into the pockets of their customers and took all they could legally get. Finishing his remarks Mr. Mahler said that rum-sellers are cur- rently said to have no hearts. He was sure that the men who direct the affairs of the Shylock concern were ushered into existence without the faintest resemblance to that organ in their bodies. w. B. KDEIT, the gentlemanly proprietor of the Palmer House and Tremout Hotel tonsorial and bath- ing palaces, accorded a prompt reply to the interviewer's inquisitiveness. He observed that one burner in the Tremont House had given as much light as three burners of the old company. The new gold ornamentations and frescoing of his parlors in the Palmer House hd been discolored by the coal gas of the old company in ninety days and it would prove a costly expendi- ture if he were obliged to use the yellow, nmoKy light that has disappeared from his establishment forever, thanks to the new company. Mr. Oilman, of the Woodruff House, corner Twenty-first street and Wabash avenue, ob- served that the new gas is all that has been promised for it He expressed gratification with the light, which he said was clear, steady, white, and soft to the eye. He used only one burner in the house where he had formerly used two, a saving of 100 per cent in his monthly bills. He had contemplated placing electric lights in his dining-room and other parts of the house previous to obtain- ing the new gas, but that was not necessary now, as the new light was a splendid illuminant, and gave him and his guests unbounded satisfaction. Many more prominent citizens were inter- viewed, all of whom said in substance that the old monopoly had exhibited a grasping avariciousness ana an utter disregard of public rights, which would put to blush Tweed's outrageous defiance of public opinion in his palmiest days. CAPTAIN WILLIAM HENBT WHITE. In according a proper share of praise for the creditable building of the plant and the seventy-five miles of main pipes THE INTER OCEAN omitted in the prefatory observations to this article to give credit to Captain Will- iam Henry White, engineer of the construc- tion company, who was ably and efficiently assisted by his brother. Colonel C. A. White, present assistant engineer of the company. These gentlemen were indefatigable in their efforts, and may be said without doing in- justice to others to have been master spirits in bringing the works to a successful comple- tion. The officers of the company are C. E. Judson, President and Engineer; S. A. Stevens, Secretary and Treasurer; Jesse Hildrup, Vice President, and Colonel C. A. White, Assistant Engineer, all of whom are brilliant executive officers, and whose direction of the affairs of the company is a guarantee that private and public confidence will be more than realized during their ad- ministration of the Consumers' Gas, Fuel, and Light Company. THE PBICE. In bringing this article to a close, it maybe of sufficient interest to the public to state that the price of gas of the new company is $1.25 per 1,000 feet, regardless of con- tracts made heretofore at an advanced figure. The r>ublic must remember while noting the acparent difference in the price charged for gas by the two companies that the dif- ference is fancied rather than real The gas of the new company is much denser, and of much greater candle power than that of the old company. It is commercially much the cheapest gas. Service pipes with meters and meter con- nections will be introduced free of expense. The public may feel assured that they will be treated with politeness and due considera- tion in all cases from the employes of the company. CHAPTER XUL THE PRODUCE TRADE. THE PRODUCE TRADE. NEVEK IN THE HISTOET of the produce trade of the city of Chicago has the volume of business been attained as reported during the year 1883. The efforts made by our merchants to attract trade in this direction has been remarkably successful, and in the prosecu- tion of the one object of their lives and the city's pride, they have been peculiarly surrounded, and in a great measure assisted, by very fortunate circumstances. The large emigration to the West and Northwest during the past five years has not been lost sight of, and as the great majority of the newcomers were farmers, a special effort was made to draw their attention to Chicago as a mar- ket for the products of their new farms. The acreage of land which has been develoued in the country tributary to our market within the time specified has been unusually heavy, and in most instances occupied by actual settlers. The build- ing of through lines and branches through these fertile avenues, by some of the leading railway corporations, has also been the means of increas- ing and enlarging the produce trade of the North- west, and more particularly tnat of the Garden City. Another very fortunate circumstance was the favorable crop returns, especially of the smaller grains, which were secured in good con- dition, and in such quantities that producers were compelled to seek such a wholesale market as ours to dispose of their property promptly at satisfactory hgures, or should the markets have been suddenly depressed, place them in our warehouses until a more favorable opportunity should be presented for disposing of it. No other city in this country is supplied with such MAGNIFICENT AND SUBSTANTIAL WAREHOUSES for the storage of grain the capacity of which has been increased 1,000,01)0 bushels "during the past year, and now reaches 26,200,000 bushels and in no other market are storage rates more reasonable, and contingent expenses for hand- ling and disposing of grain less burdensome. It may not be out of place here to state that the reli- ability and financial standing of the members of the produce trade has been improved in this respect that more legitimate business has been transacted than ever before, and the "bucket-shop schemes" and "special fund swindles" are being gradually weeded out through the efforts of legitimate merchants and the enforcement of the laws by government officials. Again, the membership of the Chicago Board of Trade is virtually limited,and the trans- fers of membership privileges are almost *xci"- siveiy from small unfortunate operators and non- traders to parties of financial standing and who have some influence in attracting trade either in shipping or speculation to our market. The number of firms engaged in all branches of the produce trade has been somewhat increased dur- ing the year, which was partially due to the en- larged movement of property, but more largely attributed to the growing mania for speculative investments. The recent favorable decisions of the courts including the highest authority in the land has had much to do with encouraging this mode of trading. The plan adopted by the Chi- cago Board of Trade, wherein it is declared to be the intention of the parties when the contracts are made to tender or receive such property, has also had a beneficial in checking reckless opera- tors or small margins. The repeal of the "anx,i- cornerl" rule by that organization, too, has not led to the reckless and unscrupulous trading anticipated, and but one during the year was any unusual complaint made regarding extortionate prices, when an appeal to the courts apparently had a beneficial effect, though generally regarded as of doubtful expedi- ency. It should be understood that deliveries on speculative contracts for produce are as freely made, proportionately as those calling for other property, and that the rules of all legitimate commercial organizations and the decisions of our courts sustain such contracts. THE FACILITIES FOE FILLING speculative orders have been materially enlarged. Several of the leading houses have special private telegraph connections with the leading Eastern and Western markets, and others have estab- lished branch houses in the larger cities for the accommodation of their constantly glowing trade. The grain markets have been very attractive to the speculative element, annd other branches of speculative tracie have felt severe losses on this account especially the stock market of Wall street. Our banking facilities are unsurpassed anywhere, and merchants in good standing expe- renceno difficulty in obtaining financial favors, as their class of collaterals command the preference. The export trade during the year was fairly large, yet exhibited no particular increase. The orders from the foreign markets for grain have been moderate, while the inquiry from abroad for beef and hog products was somewhat in- creased. Our facilities for negotiating foreign exchange are equal to those of Eastern markets, and merchants meet with no inconvenience in disposing of their bills. The fluctuation in prices during the year partook of quite wide range, and in some instances resulted in temporary financial disturbances and suspension of houses engaged in speculative oDerations rather reckless in char- acter. The early part of the year was apparently more favorable to holders of produce, and satis- factory prices were realized, but during the latter part of the year prices were on a declining scale. The reports of damage to the winter wheat crop early in the season led producers to believe that an unusual demand would prevail for that cereal, but while the final returns of the harvest showed quite a serious decrease, in the returns, yet the 120 CHICAGO'S FIKST HALF CENTURY. spring \rheat crop was an unusually good one, and this had the effect of weakening the market and ACCUMULATING LARGE QUANTITIES OF WHEAT in the principal markets of this country. The re- ports of the corn crop were favorable early, and lower prices were accepted, but the back- wardness of the crop and the appearance of frost in the early autumn seriously affected the qual- ity of the grain. The smaller (Trains were re- ceived in liberal quantities and in excellent con- dition. The supplies of live stock have been abundant and liberal numbers forwarded to our market. The production of other farm articles has been liberal. An unfortunate misunderstanding between the representatives of the Eastern railroads and the officials of the Board of Trade caused the statistical movement of produce to be withheld from the public for about four months. This in- terfered greatly with compiling the returns for the year. These deficiencies have not been re- ported, yet sufficient data has been obtained by which an approximate idea of the movement of some of the leading articles can be had. It is sufficient, however, to say that the aggregate receipts of flour and grain 168.595,413 bushels are THE LARGEST ON BECOED, while the shipments of the same articles 145,- 673,569 bushels have been exceeded but once. There is little doubt, when the final returns are made, that the movement of all kinds of produce- both to and from the city, will exhibit an unusn, ally large volume. PRODUCE STATISTICS. AGGREGATE GRAIN MOVEMENT. The following table exhibits the aggregate receipts and shipments of flour (reduced to bushels) and all kinds of grain at Chicago during the past ten years: Year. Received, bushels. 1874. 95,611,713 1875 81,087,302 1876. . 97,735,482 1877. 94,416,399 1878 134.086,595 1879 138,154,571 1880 165,855,370 1881 145,020,829 1882 126,146,483 1883 168,595,413 Year. Shipped, bushels. 1874. 84,020,691 1875 72,369,194 1876 87,241,306 1877. 90,706,076 1878 118,675,269 1879 125,528,379 1880 154,377,115 1881 140,307,597 1882 114,864,933 1883 145,673,569 GRAIN CEOPS. The following are the final returns and estimates of the grain crops of the United States, with comparisons of former years, as given Dy the Department of Agriculture: ABTICLE 1883. 1882. 1881. 1880. Wheat.. . Corn Oats Barley... Bye B'kwh't. 420,100.000 1,551,066,0110 &00.600.0M 44,010,000 19,000,(.00 8,000,000 502,789,600 3*0,280.090 1,624,91 7,8(0 1,H)4,91H,COO 4)5,655,7001 416,481,1:00 45,000,000 41,161,330 20,000,000 20,;u4,9:>0 12.(00,000| 9,486,200 498,549,868 1,717,434,5)3 417.885.3SO 45,165,316 24.540,829 14,617,535 "This includes all qualities sound and unsound corn. MOVEMENT OF GHATN, PROVISIONS, LIVE STOCK. The following table exhibits the receipts and shipments of flour, grain, and live stock for two years: THE VTRILBE SUPPLY OF GRAIN. The following table shows the visible sup- ply of grain, comprising the stock sin granary at' the principal points of accumulation at lake and seaboard ports, and in transit by rail and water (monthly) for the year 1883: MONTHS. Wheat. Corn. Oats. Rye. Barley. January 6. . Februarys . March 3... . April? May 5 June 2 Julv7 . . 21,315,550 22.289. 1 36 2:5,3 2.271 22,3411.95 2' >,707,249 >0.-.'-4,S15 1S..W.49". 18,750,986 21J04.7H!- 28.523,4-8 SI, 129.673 33.281,94: 85,531,259 9.229,144 10,700,05! 13,545,6 ' ' 18,223,008 lli,16S.->!'8 13, 9:!,546 l',836,f'29 10,917,788 ii,;;:;7,-u 13.414,957 10,335,7*3 8,62l,99E 9,lftl.25i' 4.425, 588 43~>2,164 4,062,111 4,057,6:18 4.667,1 8 :v.>ss.57r 3.70i,l:;7 3, 04,671 1,199. 07 5.SK01S 5,510.990 5,912,447 6,197,271 1.514,973 1,646,081 1,832,070 1,8 7,8'.8 1.7^1,0! 7 1, 741,274 1,712.609 1,593,^94 1, ^7,851 i.2 4.146 2. 58.S84 2,569.803 2,712, 1S8 3.004.f)fO 2.< 57,769 1,916,472 1,'98,'30 1.C20.9TO :2',347 398.299 3:ll,9;9 271, H2 873,52; 2,366,SS4 3,50:1,486 3,469,856 August 4 September 1 . October 6 Novembers. December 1. December 2-! CASH PRICES. THE RANGE. The following table exhibits the opening, highest, lowest, and closing prices for the articles named (monthly) for the year 1883. compared with the highest and lowest in 1883: NO. 2 SPRING WHEAT. 1883. 1882. to . MONTHS. a .74 7 8 August.. IsQiJ .SB's .4913 .50*4 .7914 7 *? Sept'der .49 .523s .47 3 4 .493g .75 October. .4914 .4913 .46 .46 G s .71>3, 159 8 Nov'ber. 4713 .57 .47 ^ .55 3 4| .72>a .64 JJec'ber.. .55 .5414 .55 3 4 II .61 .49^4 NO. 2 OATS. January .3514 .38-8 .35 36 7 8 .451s .4219 Feb'ary. .37*4 .413s .37 .41 .43^ .4014 March . . .42 .4313 .393s .40 .45*3 .42 April.... .42 .43 .3913 .40 .521, .45 May .41 .42 3 4 .38 3 4 .3914 .563s .48 June .3912 .40 7 s .32 .32 3 4 .56 .48 July .3314 .8614 .2714 .271* .62 .5213 August. . .27 7 s .29 .25 3 4 .27 .59 .37 Sept'ber .26 .28 .25 .27 3 4 -36i3 .3013 October. .273 4 .2838 .26 3 4 .27 7 s .35 3 4 .3158 Nov'ber. .27 3 4 .313g .27 3 a .31 .39 .33=8 Dec'ber.. .30o o >o o >o 00 ^ >O O t- p "d 2 j* M CO t- t- H 2 )H b @ @ > 9 @ O ,_j J 1 ^ ^ H O M P^ e? ? Q CO S V g A ;20 0|o 1 o a i | 1 1 i i ill ^ J- ^ ^ . C- O o 1} s 9 2 S co o rH "^ t- CO K >- ft o Jlll!:!!l fcS O a> 3 w~S og o *o 2i IH c?" 0* 4 1 -? c? 51 6 @ @ 1 I I I tl @ ^ rS 5 pjf J> r^ t? 4 J X) a) o M S H * TJl co co O) IN jn^m"j[. _ B *-;a MS d @ @ @ 1 @ @ SS PC O rH io o in o i (v, eo St . ^? C35 00 00 t^ ^ CC GO -1 3 w Is TEAB S 2 ii 00 00 CO 00 00 ELEVATOR CAPACITY. THE VABIOUS ELEVATOBS IN CHICAGO. The following table exhibits the grain ele- vator capacity of the city of Chicago at the present time: Name of elevator. Capacity, bu. Central elevator A 1,000,000 Central elevator B 1,500,000 C., B. a>id Q. elevator A. 1,250.000 C., B. and Q. elevator B 850,000 C., B. and Q. elevator C 1,750,000 C., B. and Q. elevator D 2,000,000 C., B. and Q. elevator E 1,000,000 Kock Island elevator A l,5()o.ooo Rock Island elevator B 1,250,000 Galena elevator 750 o i .7 co ^c ^ 5|||g .P9P9C9H 05 05 IS-* K -H IS C5 g CO |3 O4I-7 s -ox .N^J^rH^lO^libt^rHCOO lOlAMXOO 9PSOSOX S3S co S e wie 22' Me -i i -OK 1-1 J CCrH ggiS^ S ox 'fox 0XCCCC^lOl>r-iO-1'X>0 1C ^ u- in -* 05 CM CO >5 n X 00 SPRING WHEAT CARS. Wox PillPlSl III S'OX gE:838SSg2S rHOC5t~t- 9pJf) 'OX . 1 L. C5 >C CC * t-j !D O g Siil T.-ox : : rHr-t>o-i> 5CMrH p 9 ,OO f 9H '^IrH rH r-JrHCNSS ssesg i -ON OATS CARS, , w. ?; :'< ~ r; ic f >x S*i H "-t V t-c5'sc;xocT;cco?xa IM 9PWJJ 'OX 2Sl5S^pS5S 'z - OK (N rHC^CSI 1-1 CCMCCCO ^^ cv -^ ^r ^t ^ L"^ t-- >J n "^ i .*5 a? o^c; 000 tHi-H I -ON "^ i i i ro :S8SS rHC^ '2 'OX iii-jipmi ill paxtrapaioafag; '(NO I I ICCK P9XIOI g -OK : : '.r--s> -^,-ox ccSSiooofjcoSoSKiS CiftDCCOf- P 9xjai r .-ox p .ast-oo :-*^33 esg! paBq 2 'ox : j S8 oipf I -ox : ;co :rn :m^coo : CT pjett i -ox :::::::::::i ICO COBN CABS. ..OX CJ 05 05 O "C 5 'X * '^ X Ol^l~--CS'Ot>r-Xt~t~" sii^g C5XOCOOrHr-CSNC005 s s isB WINTEB WHEAT CABS. w. i-HCD i 1 CO CC O r- 1 rH i * Jjoqciccw OPWQ 'OX ,. CC CCCCOCD WP* S .,.. <* ofcOrlrH | oJ r-* J9}nLM. g "OX J9}ut. z 'N J5S5S pgxira 'H A8X i^ni" 00 ; |"3 sii^i corHoiccec *p9J JoHOJ g 'OX co;X * iooxaj rH paa Snot i -ox . . -rH rHO : KI> pgj z 'S. (NCCOCC'C'NCCil^^O^ IfS "p9xiui H^IH rH^I COCO P9J I 'OX : : ^ : i "CD rH9 f ox ::::::::::: :C " rHOO 9?niM. 5 -ox : : : : : ?~'" : SS ^nui : : : : H 9}jTiM. i -ox t- cot- AVOHOA 1-1 i ii i f" 1 i g^Sgg H O a i : I*! :J M'^-'SCJ ("i I .J'2 ^^^ : r-..-r-r-! n S^H loSSjjgg '3.--. r?r^SEt| r Sj**I^'-5^^1coOr^Q c^r^r^C"^ 124 The inspection of grain received by the Illi- nois and Slichigan Canal ancl by lake during the year 1883 was as follows: Wheat 5,430 bu No. 3 spring-. Corn 110,100 bu high mixed, 375,500 bu No. 2, 3,800 bu new high mixed, 1,351, 000 bu rejected, 49,600 bu no grade. Oats 131,600 bu No. 2 white, 302,- 600b(iNo. 2, 78,500 bu rejected, 9,000 bu no grade. Bye 68,200 bu No. 2, 34,000 bu rejected. 6,00~0 bu no grade. Barley 20,463 bu No. 2. KATES OF COMMISSIONS. FOB KECEIVTNG AND SELLING. The following are the rates of commissions adopted by the Chicago Board of Trade for receiving and selling and accounting for consignments of the property named: CASH PKOPEBTT. For selling car-load lots of wheat and rye in store, free on board cars or vessels, <;n track, delivered, or to be shipped frc*n any otner point, Ic per bushel. For selling car-load lots of con* and oats in store, iC P er bushel. For selling corn by sample, OD track, Ic per bushel. For selling car-load lots of oats, free on cars or vessels, on track, delivered, or to be shipped from any other point, Ic per bushel For selling car-load lots of barley in store, Ic per bushel. For selling car-load lots of barley, free on board cars or vessels, on track, delivered, or to be shipped from any other point, l^c per bushel. ;For selling canalboat loads of grain in store or afloat or free on board vessels, ^c per bushel. For selling flaxseed in bulk, Ic per bushel. For sel ling flaxseed in bags, ligc per bushel. For selling clover seed in car-load lots, 1 per cent For selling clover seed in less than car-load lots, 11*2 per cent For selling timothy seed, 1 ^ per cent For selling other seeds, 2 per cent For selling dressed hogs in car-load lots, 1 *2 per cent. For selling dressed hogs in less than car- load lots, not less than lig per cent nor to exceed 2^ per cent For selling, bran, shorts, and millstuffs, $3. 50 per car. For selling corn meal and mixed feed, $5 per car. For selling broom corn, irjc per B>. For the purchase and shipment of lard, pork and other meats, 1% of 1 per cent SPECULATIVE TRANSACTIONS. In cases where the transaction is made by order or for account of parties who are not members of the association : For tne purchase and sale of property in the Chicago market: On all kinds of grain in lots of 5,000 bush- els or more, ^4 of 1 c per bushel. On lard in lots of 250 tierces or more, lOc per tierce. On mess pork in lots of 250 barrels or more, 5c per barrel. On other meats in lots of 50,000 pounds or more. ^ of 1 per cent. In cases where the transaction is made by order or for account of parties who are members of the association, the minimum narge shall be one-half the above rates, to wit: For the purchase and sale of property in the Chicago market: On all kinds of grain in lots of 5,000 bush- els or more, ig of Ic per bushel On lard in lots of 250 tierces or more, 5c per tierce. On mess pork in lots of 250 barrels or more, 2^0 per barrel. On other meats, in lots of 50.000 fi>s or more, ^4 of 1 per cent. For the purchase and shipment by vessel cargo: On wheat, rye, and barley. ^ of Ic per bushel. On other grain, ^4 of Ic per bushel. For the purchase and shipment by rail: On grain of all kinds, i^of Ic per bushel. For the purchase and shipment of lard, mess pork, and all other meats, 1^ of I per cent. For brokerage where the name of the prin- cipal is given the day on which the transac- tion is made, and the broker therefore ceases to be considered as the principal : On all kinds of grain, 25c per 1,000 bush- els. On lard, Ic per tierce. On mess pork, ^of Ic per barrel On other meats, 3c per 1,000 fta FLOUR AND GRAIN. FLOUR. The flour trade in this city has not been as satisfactory in point of volume as last year, still a very fair aggregate trade has been , transacted, and dealers generally feel satis- fied with the year's business. Had the export demand been as general as during the year 1882, trade would have been highly satis- factory, but this has been lacking more or less throughout the entire year, and mer- chants have been compelled to rely upon the home trade to a considerable extent, which has been good. The Canadian trade relieved the dullness to some extent, still the market on the whole has lacked life and activity. Of course there were spasmodic spurts of activ- ity when indications seemed favorable for continued good trade, but for some reason the market would relapse into dullness with- out developing any life, and while there has been more or less demand ail the while, trade has been mostly of a slow and dragging nature. The reason for this has been that European markets have been well stocked with flour throughout the year. At the close of the year 1882, the for- eign markets ail carried pretty liberal stocks, and these instead of decreasing have in- creased, so that the European Continental trade has been drawing on its own supplies more than in former years, The export orders received have been mainly for special grades and brands well known to the trade in foreign markets. For instance, merchants abroad having an established trade for a cer- tain class of choice flour possessing strength and good color, would send special orders ailing for tni or that grada or brand direct CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 123 and such orders would occasionally comprise large lots. Eussian, Mediterranean, and India wheat have been so much cheaper than formerly, owing to abundant supplies, that European millers have been able to supply the English and Continental trade during: a large portion of the year with flour at lower prices than American' flour could be sold at without loss to millers, thus precluding American competition for the time being-. But the improved machinery for milling-, and fine wheat to be had, enables American mill- ers to produce a quality of flour which can- not be surpassed, "and which commends itself to the world, even though the price may be, figuratively speaking, higher than European makes, and a certain amount always finds sale in all foreign marts. American millers have consigned a good deal of flour to European markets; in fact some of the mills have built up a regular trade by educating themselves to the wants of the Europeans, and are making flours especially adapted to their particular wants. As a rule, however, there has been less encouragement the past year to ship abroad, and yet the amount of consigned flour has been large. This mode of SHIPPING PROMISCUOUSLY TO FOREIGN MARKETS has in some instances proved rather unsatis- factory. One reason for this is that wheat in the Chicago market is kept above a shipping margin by excessive speculation, and when above its legitimate value for shipment to other points it naturally is too high for the milling interest. When wheat is held high in the Chicago market it is also generally high at all points tributary to Chicago, and so it is not alone the Chicago millers that have to suffer, but interior millers as well. The Canadian trade has been better, and promises favorable during the balance of the season. This is owing to the partial failure of the Canadian wheat crop, and notwith- standing there is an import tax of 50c on every barrel of flour imported into Canada the trade has been good. The demand has been chiefly for the lower grades, though some good "stock was also taken including choice spring wheat bakers' flours. The Southern trade has been smaller than usual, although this trade with Chicago has been on the decrease for several years, other sources evidently having developed from which to draw supplies. The local trade has been very good, a steady demand coming from this source. Jobbers have complained some- what of doing less business, but this was only in exceptional cases, and can be attrib- uted to an increased number of firms enter- ing the jobbing trade, besides other channels of distribution, thus causing a more scat- tered business. The family trade has cen- tered in spring wheat patents, winter wheat patents, and winter wheat straights. The difference in cost between spring wheat patents and winter wheat straights has va- ried from 50c to $1 per barrel, and as winter wheat straights have been the cheaper of the two, the local family trade has catered chiefly to these The city milling interest forms a very important feature of this market. There are now two mills running in this city day and night, whose aggregate production for the past year was about 350,000 barrels. A large share of this manufacture has found a market in foreign lands, and a portion has been taken Jfor home consumption. And while speaking of the city mills it would not be out of place to state that another mill is in course of erection, the daily capacity of which will be 500 bar- rels per day. This mill, like the others, will also be supplied with all the new and im- proved machinery, thus giving Chicago a milling capacity of about 1,800 to 2,000 bar- rels per day, if taxed to full capacity. The Stock of flour on hand at the opening of the year 1883 was reported at 80,217 barrels, and this was the largest amount on hand at any time during the year. The smallest stock in store was in October, when it was reported at 38,074 barrels. At the close of the year the stack was about 43,000 barrels. The year opened with choice to fancy winter wheat flours sell- ing at $4. 75 to $5. 40. good to choice Minne- sota straights at $4. 50 to $5. 25, and patents at $5.75 to $7. Until June the market ruled firm, when winters sold up to $5.50 to $6,25, Minnesota to $5 to $5.75, and patents to $6. 50 to $7. 50, but during the last naif prices eased off to $4. 50 to $5. 65 for winters. $4. 50 to $5. 25 for Mmnesotas. and $5. 90 to $6. 50 for patents. Eye flour has ruled lower the past year under free offerings, and sold within the range of $3 to $4 per barrel, and as low as $2.65 to $2.85 a sack. The following- table exhibits the closing figures for the years named: 1883, 1S82. 1881. t8SO. >7.?5$l,50 . .25 4.50<8ti.2r> Patents 5.80^(1.50 5.75A700 7.00(^8.50 6.00(3)7.25 Low erades..., ->.-'. c@ <.50 For the first time in several years flour nas again been consigned from Colorado to Chi- cago, several shipments having been made during the last few months. The exports from the United States for the year 1883 aggregated about 9,000.000 brla, against 7,200,000 brls. for the year 18S2. The following cable shows the quantities of flour manufactured in this city during the past ten years : Year. Brls. 1874 244,668 1875 249,653 1876 271,074 1377 293,244 1878 308,284 The following table Year. Brls. 1879 285,904 1880 270,000 1881 250,000 Iss-_> 305,000 1883 358,000 exhibits the receipts and shipments of flour at Chicago during the past ten years: Year. RECEIVED. Brls. SHIPMENTS. Year. Brls. 1875... ...2,625,883 1875 2,285,113 2,644,838 2.482,305 2,779,640 3,090,540 2,862,737 4,499,743 3, 843,067 4,019,234 1876... 2,955,197 1876 1877... 2,691,142 1877 1878... 1879... 1880. . 3,030,562 3,:j(;i>,!)5s 3,'-!l,VSs<> 1878 1879 1880 1881... 1882 . 4,815,249 4,179,912 1881 1882 1883... 4,403.982 1S83 WINTER WHEAT. x Early in the year trade was restricted somewhat by the very limited offerings. The demand was good and the feeling was strong, which was attributed principally to the un- favorable advices regarding the growing crop. No. 2 red sold at the opening of the year at 95c, and advanced in February to $1. 13. but again eased off and in April sold down to $1.05. As crop advices continued unfavorable the market again took an upward course, and by the last of May and the 1st of Jute sold up to $1. 15 to Si. 16. The advance was stimulated largely by the active speculation which prevailed in regular No. 2 wheat, winter wheat sympathizing to a great extent. In June the market com- 126 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTUEY. menced to react, and take a downward course, prices declining, reaching: $1.04 to $1.06 during the first half of July. This decline was due largely to the reaction in the speculative market, and also to the more general belief that the short- age of the crop had been greatly overesti- mated. Early in August, when the new crop commenced to move more freely, sales were beinsrmade at $1.06 to $1. 07*2, and from that ^advanced to $1. 10. In September, how- ever, prices reached 98c, and in Octo- ber 96c to 97c, advancing later on to $1.03 to $1.05. During the last few months of the year sold within within 96o to $1.02 and closed quiet Trade has, on the whole, been very good, though less than during the year 1882, which would be natural considering the large shortage of the comparative crops of the years 1882 and 1883. A steady shipping and fair milling demand has existed. The speculative de- mand was good about the time the new crop was beginning to move and for a while there- after, but during the last quarter no specula- tion existed. WHEAT. That speculation has been more active in this market than during the year 1882 must certainly be admitted, and can be accounted for from several reasons. In the first place, the influences presented during the year were such as to create and stimulate a desire for speculation. Then again the trading in No. 2 wheat, which allows the delivery of either No. 2 spring or No. 2 red winter on contracts, and which was not in force until the last half of the year 1882, gave dealers more con- fidence to trade without so great a likelihood of becoming involved in a squeeze or being cornered. This led to free trading, so that speculation during the year has been carried on with unrestrained freedom, frequently to excess, either in buying or selling, which led to bad results. In reviewing this market for the past year, many important features and points of interest are brought to memory. From the opening to the close of the year the course of the market has been one ot great un- certainty, and many operators have been badly misled, not alone by their own calculations, for such an occurrence is nothing unusual, but principally by statistical information, both of an official character and otherwise. The short crop theorists no doubt suffered severely financially. Estimates of the wheat crop as early as there was any possible chance to give them were made, setting forth a shortage of 100.000,000 bu to 125,000,000 bu, as compared with the official crop re- turns of the year 1882. How badly opera- tors were misled by placing too much confi- dence in crop reports can best be told by those who stubbornly adhered to the short crop theory to the last. The final estimates placed the crop of 1883 at 420,000,000 bu, against the returns of 503.000,000 bu of 1882. which would give a shortage of 83,000,000 bu. While perhaps there was a large short- age of winter wheat, estimated from 75,- 000,000 to 100, 000,000 bu. the spring wheat yielded better than anticipated. Then, again, many operators overlooked the fact of liberal stocks of old wheat remaining in the interior and at the principal markets both at home and abroad. But the various views and opinions on this subject gave ample oppor- ' tunities for speculation, and the more di- versified the opinions and views of operators the larger the trading. The continual dis- paraging tenor of advices concerning the con- dition of the winter wheat, caused by the thawing and alternate freezing weather last winter, "and also of the backwardness of the spring wheat crop, brought out the fears of a short crop, which, together with the unfa- vorable nature of advices concerning the Europen crops formed the speculative basis and principal theme of speculation during the early portion of the year. But before the close of the last half of the year the condi- tion of affairs became such as to work a WONDERFUL CHANGE IN PEICES. and many who hadbeen "bulls" at over $1. 15 per bushel were the strongest "bears" under $1 per bushel. This great transformation of ideas was brought ab out largely by the very liberal stocks of wheat and the unfavorable and unsatisfactory outlook of the condition of affairs financially. Failures of mercantile houses occurred'^ requently, occasionally in- volving prominent houses throughout the United. States; also abroad. Then oc- curred the heavy failure of the firm which engineered the great lard cor- ner, and which dragged down numerous other local houses. These failures were fol- lowed by a panicky feeling in stocks, until fears were really entertained of a general panic ensuing. These fears, however, were dispelled as the financial outlook appeared more encouraging. But the continued unu- sually heavy receipts for the last quarter of the year preVented any material or perma- nent advance, although the depression and almost panicky feeling, it might be said, was checked, and frequently a rally of 3c to 5c per bushel occurred. The stock of wheat in store in the Chicago elevators at the opening of the year 1883 was reported at 5,196,000 bushels, and never during the year was the stock reduced below 5,000.000 bushels, but when the new crop commenced to move freely a steady accumulation occurred, and at the close of the vear the stock in store was about 12,000.000 bushels. The visible sup- ply at the principal points of accumulation in Canada and the United States increased from 21,048,000 bushels at the opening of the year to 35,531,000 bushels at the close of the year. The shipping demand has been much less tha'n in former years, the export demand having been unusually light. The exports for the past year were about 69,000,000 bushels, against about 108,000,000 bushels for the year 1882. This has been due in the first place to the high prices prevailing daring the early months, and later to the fact that foreign wheat came in competition with American, and beinsr sold for less of course was taken'in preference, so that foreign or- ders were" far below the average. Besides, European markets have been pretty heavily supplied with old wheat and merchants there really had not any pressing wants to supply, and they could act independently about buy- ing. Fluctuations in prices during the year have extended through a range of 23 ^c, and during the year 1882 throusrh a range of 487gc, in 1880 through 45%;, and 1879 through 52c. The market on the 2d day of January, 1883, ranged at 935g@93'7 8 c, and these were the lowest prices for the first half of the year. Prices advanced with frequent fluctuations to $1.13 1*2, which figure was reached in June, and from that sold off to 90c in October, again reached 99140 in De- cember, but receded again and closed easier. CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. iar The following: table shows the receipts and shipments of wheat in this marKet during the past tea years : Year. 1874.. 1875.. 1876.. 1877.. 1878. 1879.. 1 880. . 1S81.. 1882.. 1883 20,313.065 Received, bu _'!>,764.622 24,206,370 16,574,058 14,764,515 29,713,571 ...34, 10(>. 109 ...23,541,607 ...14,284,990 ...23,008,596 Year. 1874.. 1875.. 1876.. 1877.. 187S.. 1879.. 1880.. 1881.. 1882.. Shipped ,bu. ...27.634,587 ...23,184.319 ...14,361,950 ...14,909,160 ...24,211,739 ..31,006,789 ..22,796,288 ..17,127,540 ..19,797,884 1883 11,708,385 CORN. More interest than usual centered in the corn market during the year 1883, which may be attributed to the peculiar and in aome instances unlocked for surrounding's of the trade. An unusually large speculative business was transacted throughout the year, and the shipping demand was very large, especially during the season of lake navigation. The demand for export was considerably increased, the lower range of prices encouraging the movement, and in- creased quantities were forwarded to Great Britain and Continental Europe. The crop of 1882 was undoubtedly a heavy oae prob- ably larger than officially reported as the, receipt* at Chicago were increased about 50 per ceut The quality, however, was not quite as good as that of the preceding year less than 50 per cent of the arrivals being K.ti table to deliver on special contracts. The backward and wet spring interfered some- what with the planting of the crop of 1883, and the cool weather during the summer tended to retard its growth. The crop, how- ever, at midsummer was regarded as two to three weeks late, but with a favor- able autumn it was anticipated that the aggregate yield would reach 1,800,000,- 000 bushels possibly more and on the strengtn of this supposition large sales were made for future delivery. About the middle of September, the crop was reported seriously injured by frost so much, so that crop inter- ests were reduced to 1.550,000,000 bushels. The unfavorable and changeable weather during the fall and early winter months tended to damage the quality of the crop, and while the aggregate yiela may not be materially lessened, yet there is little doubt but the quantity of good merchantable corn will be proportionately less than usual. In the northern parts of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa, and throughout the States of Michi- gan, Witcond'.n and Minnesota, the damage by frost and warm, wet weather has been more serious than elsewhere. The domestic demand for corn during the year 1883 was largely from the seaboard cities and the interior points of the Eastern and Middle States. The inquiry from the South was lets urgent, as that section of the country was favored with a good crop last season. The demand from the distilling interests was quite brisk, but confined largely to the lower grades. The glucose manufacturers also purchased rather freely, more particularly during the early part of the year. Live stock raiders in some sections al^o bought moderate quanti- ties. While prices have not fluctuated within qi}ite as \vide a range as durnig 1883, vet the fluctuations have been frequent, and in some instances were somewhat extended. The market opened rather tame with the ad- vent of the year at 49^0 for No. 2, but un- der the influence of an urgent demand prices were rapidly advanced about 20c during the latter part of January, reaching the highest fisure of the year 70c. Th appreciation in prices was so sudden that "shorts" were dis- satisfied and they appealed to the courts for an injunction, restraining certain parties from calling for excessive margins, which had the effect to greatly unsettle the market and caused a reduction of 14c to 16c in prices Defore the close of the month. After that period trading slackened considerably, and the fluctuations in prices were slight during the succeeding five months. In July, with warmer weather, the outlook for the grow- ing crop was regarded more favorable, and (speculative operators were more inclined to sell for future delivery. The receipts at that time were quite large, in- dicating that farmers had more confi- dence in the maturing of the crop of 1883, therefore being more willing to dispose of their surplus corn. Prices gradually receded to 4758C during the early part of that month, but toward the close rallied again to 53c. During the month of August the receipts were unusually large more than double those of the corresponding month in 1882. Prices ruled with considerable steadiness, es- pecially as the shipping demand was brisk fluctuations during that month being con- fined within a range of 23gc. In September the market was very active on both shipping and speculative account, and the movement to and from the city was very large. For immediate delivery prices were moderately well maintained, but speculators were in- clined to discount prices for future delivery. Fluctuations in prices were more frequent and the extreme range was 45gc. The re- ports of frost in some sections of the West tenaeu to a steadier feeling in the market, inasmuch as fears were entertained of damage to the crop owing to its backward- ness. During the early part of October prices re- ceded to 46c the lowest of the year but closed steadier. Speculators were now at- tracted to the market, and during the balf ance of the year an unusually heavy business, was transacted, and prices gradually ad- vanced lOc to 12c on the whole range, due in a measure to the continued unfavorable and changeable weather, which greatly in- terfered in securing the crop, and rendering' the inspection of corn from some sections rather unsatisfactory, thereby reducing the quantity of good merchantable corn suitable for delivery on contracts. The following table shows the receipts and shipments of corn at Chicago during the past ten years: , Year. Received bu.|Year. Shipped, bu 1874 .. .... 35,790, 63S 1874 32 705 224 I^T;>... 1876.... 1S77.... 1878 1879.... 1880.... 1881.... 1882.... 1883.... ....28.341,150 ....48.668,640 ....47,915,728 .. 63,651,518 ....61,339,311 ....97. 272, -M 1 ....7s, 393,395 .. 49.06l,7.v. ....74,459,948 1875 1876 1877 1878 1S79 1880 1881 1S*2 1883... ..26,443.884 ..45.629,035 . 46,361.901 ..59,9 n, 200 ..61.299,376 ..9::. :.72, 934 ..75,463,213 ..49,073,609 ..71,098,399 OATS. The volume of business transacted in this market compares very favorably with that of former years. Abundant crops for two years have given this market a very large quantity of oats to care for, ann the excellent quality, together with reasonable prices, have been 128 CHICAGO'S FIHST HAL? CKM'URf. the means of attracting large orders, and the shipping business has grown very much. The facilities for taking care of oats, it seems, have been increased at various points, and this market has been liberally patron- ized by all distributing centers, and when- ever prices reached a reasonable point, oats were bought in large quantities by shippers and placed where they would be available when wanted, or in other words, stocks were secured to meet the expected consumptive wants. This fiad the effect of keeping the market quite steady, and during the past year prices covered a range of only 18c, while the year before the range was Sl^c. By this mea'ns shippers were prepared to meet any manipulation of the market, enabling them to hold off at times when prices were advanced, and bringing 1 them to market again when a reaction occurred. The price of oats was cheaper than in 1882, probably for the rea- son of an ample supply, and the figures show that the market did not reach within 18 ^c of the highest point in 1882, and on the in- side range they sold 5^c lower. A good deal of speculation was indulged in, and "longs" were not generally favored in realizing their expectations, but in several instances their disappointment was quite serious. Prices, it seems, were not destined to rule very high, one reason being the excellent arrangement made by shippers to secure and maintain tneir supplies, and another being the continued free receipts due to large crops. The stock of oats was very heavy during the first four months of the year, ranging from 700,000 bushels to 1,000,000 bushels more than for the same months the year before. Larere purchases had been made for deferred deliv- eries, speculation in this direction having been encouraged by the high prices during May, June, and July in 1882. "Longs" ex- pected an improvement, in consequence of a large outward movement, consequent to the opening of navigation. The opening of navi- gation did witness unusually large ship- ments, but the large yield during 1882 also had a telling effect. Holders in the country had been somewhat expectant of seeing prices go up during the time mentioned, and large quantities of oats were held back which came forward freely in the spring, and there were ample stocks to meet any emer- gency. The leading markets also became unsettled and easy, and the heavy decline occasioned by financial troubles soon caused a settling up of contracts, and the market from May to September declined stead- ily from 43 cents to 25 centa Later in the year the market became more settled, the shipping business was good from the time new oats first came on the market * The quality of the new crop was in everv wav desirable and this exerted a good demand. Most of the business was one by sample, and the receipts were so nearly all taken that the stock rather de- creased tnan increased, and was much smaller at the close of the year than at the same time the year before. A fair degree of speculative interest was kept up, but the feeling was quite uncertain and operators were not staying in the market with a view of seeing it go to any particular point, but a fair profit on either side seemed to be a sufficient inducement to settle contracts and prices ruled quite steady, recovering from the inside, or 25c, in September, until reach- ing 34@35c in December. The crop this year was about 4 per cent larger than last year and was estimated at a little over 500,000,- 000 bushels. The following table exhibits the receipts and shipments of oats at Chicago for the past ten years : Year. Received bu.| Year. Shipped bu. 1880 23,490,915 1881 24,861,538 1882 26,802,872 1883 37,800,442 1880 20,649,427 1881 .23,075,177 1882 23,658,239 1883 33,117,706 Two very striking features are noticed in the records of this market for the past year. The one is the heavy movement; the other the low range of prices. The highest price in 1883, which was 68c, did not come within 28c of the highest figure of the year before, which was 96c, and yet in comparing inbide prices, rye this year ranged only about 2c under the inside price of the preceding year. While a smaller average price is thus shown the market ruled more steady, that is the fluctuations were not so severe, the range, in act, for the whole year was only 15c, while in 1882 prices covered a range of 40^ 2 c. Considerable more rye was carried in store than during any previous time. Stocks ac- cumulated steadily earlv in the year, starting at 408,102 bu, and increasing: to 835,232 bu in May. The demand for rye was very lim- ited. Foreign orders were scarce, and the consumptive demand was very light for distillers, with 1,500,000 brls" of whisky on hand, came to an un- derstanding that they would run only 20 per cent of their capacity. The market from January to June was a dragging one, and prices early in the year ranged at about 60 to 63c, with occasionally 68c reached, and the market early in July ranged down to 53c. About this time the foreign crop was reported badly damaged and 30 to 40 per cent less than usual Our rye was low, and foreign buvers soon sent large orders to this country. During July and August about 1,000,000 bu of old rye was taken, and during August and September about 3,000,- 000 bu of new rye went for export. The price did not go up much, but remained at 55 to 62c, and the reason for it not going up more was that the stock has been enormously large and the new crop came forward with a, freedom never before witnessed. The exist- ence of a foreign demand also exerted a very large speculative trade. After September the export demand fell off entirely, for t:ie shortage in the foreign crop was lowered to about 15 to 20 per cent, and Russia was said to be sending rye to ail foreign markets. The home consumptive demand, which had amounted to but little, continued light and although this was the case, the arrivals were larger than during any previous year. Under this state of affairs stocks kept increasing, and by the close of the year the supply here exceeded that of the previous year by over 1,000,000 bushels. During the latter part of the year prices ranged at 53@5c to 85c, and closed at 80c. During June and July there was no market New No. 2 opened at 70c, and declined to 57c in September, but later rallied again to 6oc to 67c. Sample lots sold a trifle over in-store prices. In-store prices for the other grades cut no figure, trading being almost exclusively by sample and the in-store market was a good part of the time nominal. No. 3 by sample covered a range of 45c to 65c, but the heavy trading in the market was from 50c to 56c. No. 4 ranged at 38c to 50c. No. 5 sold at 32c to 38c, ac- cording to quality, and sales of screanings were frequently made at $8 to $12 per ton. The shipping business was largely increased, over former years, especially of the new crop, because prices weie so low that neither Can- ada nor" California could compete with the production of the Northwest, and the orders therefore came this way. The following table exhibits the receipts and shipments of barley in this market dur- ing tne past ten years: Year. Received, buJYear. Shipped, bu. 1874 4,354,981.1874 2,404,538 1875 3,107,2791875 1,868,206 1876 4,71 6,360 1876 2,687,932 1877 .4,990,379 1877 4,213,646 1878 5,754,059 1 878 3,520,983 1879 4,936,562 1879 3.566,401 1880 5,211.5361880 3,110,985 1881 5.695,3581881 3,113,251 1882 6,488,140 1 882 3, 298,252 1883 10,591, 619|l883 7,718.503 m PACKING AND PROVISIONS. PORK PACKING-. This branch of trade has shown some enlargement during the past year, still it was not as large in the aggregate as during some former years. Chicago is still the largest packing point of the world, and bids fair to maintain that position in the future. Packers have improved their facilities for slaughter- ing: hogs, and enlarged their warehouses for the curing and storage of products. About twenty of the large firms are engaged in the business during the greater portion of the year some of them without interruption in addition to which an equal number of 130 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. smaller firms cut a fair number of hogs to supply the wants of the local retail and lake trade. The capacity of the houses is about 60,000 hogs per day. The packing dur- ing the summer months was pros- ecuted quite actively, and the returns show an increase of about 150,000 hogs packed. The packing for the past year ag- gregated about 4,350, 000 hogs, or an increase of about 350,000 hogs, compared with the turns of last year. The quality of the hogs was better than usual during the summer months, but within the past three months has not been as desirable as the packers re- quire for their trade. The supply of hogs exhibits little change from that of last year, but packers were favored with an increased supply, owing to decreased shipments to Eastern markets. Prices have ruled decidedly lower about 20c to 30 per cent on the whole range and the aggregate cost of hogs purchased by packers may be estimated at about $55,000, 000. The aggregate amount of product made may be estimated about 7&o,- 000,000 pounds, which may be classi- fied as follows: Sides and mess pork, 370,- 000,000 pounds; hams, 145.000, 000 pounds; shoulders 125.000,000 pounds, and lard. 145,000,000 pounda The number of hands employed is about 14,000 to 18,000 the larger number when the receipts are liberal, during tlie winter months. Very few changes have been made in the manufacture, the preference being given to those articles re- quired for the domestic trade. The firms which have established agencies or branch houses in foreign markets cut the larger per- centage of the product required for the ex- port trade. Mess pork attracted considerable attention during the "regular" packing sea- son, but was neglected during the summer months. Other cuts of pork chiefly of the lighter descriptions were made to" a fair extent, to meet the orders re- ceived Lard was made with considerable freedom during the spring and summer months, but met with less favor during the colder weather, when a portion of the raw material could be disposed of satisfactorily to the butterine manuf acturera Hams were made chiefly into domestic cuts, and at- tracted considerable attention owing to the high prices obtainable. Shoulders made moderately throughout the year. Long and short clear sides met with a little more favor, yet the manufacture was not very large, Short rib sides were cut very freely through- out the year, and met with more favor than any other cut. Foreign fancy cuts of sides we're made moderately, more especially by those houses which have a regular trade therefor. Bellies made in fair quantities and a new cut of shoulders for the Western trade, styled "California hams," attracted some attention. PROVISIONS. The provision trade of Chicago exhibited a marked degree of activity during the year 1883 in fact, during the greater portion of the time it attracted more attention from the speculative element than any other market. The supply of hog products, both from local and interior manufacturers, was larger than the previous year, consequently operators were in better position to meet the wants of all branches of the trade. The demand from the domestic markets was quite active during the greater portion of the year, yet the up- ward tendency of prices at times checked the trading temporarily. The foreign inquiry was moderately active, yet orders were gen- erally for small quantitiea The shipments direct to agencies and branch houses of manufactures, however, were larger than heretofore. The speculative trading was unusually heavy the largest on record more particularly during the first five months of the year. The unsettled feeling during the middle of June, followed by several heavy failures in the trade, caused a marked decline in the prices of the speculative arti- cles mess pork, lard, and short rib sides. When values had declined about 20 to 25 per cent, speculators were inclined to pur- chase to some extent as an investment, deeming the shrinkage in prices sufficient to place the product on a consuming basia This attempt to check the downward ten- dency in prices proved inefficient, for the feeling continued nervous and unset- tled and a further reduction was sub- mitted to until oniy about 55 per cent of former prices were obtainable. After the severe break in the market in June, there ap- peared to be a general lack of confidence in the future course of the trade not because of a disbelief in the actual value of the prop- erty, but there was a want of courage on the part of capitalists to take hold, with the re- membrance of previous severe losses staring them in the f aca Our trade with the South was unusually heavy, and extended over a wider extent of territory. The demand was mainly for mess pork, hams, sides, shoul- ders, lard, and the usual variety of smoked meats. In the winter season some of the larger distributing markets pur- chased rather freely of green meats. The smaller interior points bought with consid- erable freedom in a jobbing way. The Pa- cific coast markets favored our merchants with an increased number of orders, but gen- erally for special articles. The mining dis- tricts of the Northwest purchased moder- ately of certain descriptions, while trade of the agricultural districts of the West and Northwest, which have been rapidly devel- oped and traversed by new railroads, was very materially enlarged, and is now of con- siderable importance. Trade with Canada was somewhat light during the first half of the year, but after the shrinkage in value a marked improvement was noticed. The lumber districts appeared to favor our markets more than usual, and the lumber- men purchased larger quantities of product. Merchants in the markets of the Eastern and Middle States sought our market for large quantities of product to meet the wants of that section, and our trade in this respect was larger than heretofore. Stocks of all kinds have been quite liberal throughout the year at times more than ample to meet the requirements of the trade. Mess pork was in good supply throughout the year, and at times was quite actively inquired for. Prices ruled somewhat irregular within the range of $10.20 to $20.15 the highest fierure reached in April and the lowest in September and October. Other cuts of pork were in moderate demand, but the bulk of the trad- ing was conducted in a quiet way. Lard at- tracted a great deal of attention, and trad- CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 131 ing was very large. Prices ruled irregularly within the range of $7.15 to $12. 10 the highest figure reached in May and the lowest in October. Exporters purchased rather freely througnout the twelve months, and the refining demand was fully up to that of former years. Short rib sides met with more favor, both from speculators and shippers, and sold freely at an irregular range. Sales to merchants in the Southern markets were unusually heavy. Prices ranged at $5. 60 to $10.75 the highest paid in May and the lowest in September. Green meats were active during the fall and winter months, and large deliveries were made on previously made contracts near the close of the year. Pickled meats including hams, shoulders, and bellies were in good demand throughout the year, and were apparently less affected by the depression in the trade than most other articles. Long cut hams were purchased moderately by exporters, but trade was not very satisfactory. Long and short clear sides were inquired for in fair quantities, but there was little life in the trade. Shoulders were sought for to some extent by the domestic markets, but the foreign demand was comparatively light. Other cuts of meats were in moderate re- quest, but trading was generally conducted in a quiet way. Tne following table exhibits the receipts and shipments of hog products to and from Chicago for the past ten years: BECEIPTS. Pork, Cut meats. Years. Ibs. Ibs. Lard, It>8. 1874. . 39,695 50,629,509 24,145.225 1875. . 49,205 54,445,783 21,982,423 1876. . 45,704 63.368,011 33,620,928 1877. . 35,249 62,021,647 27,236,359 1878. . 33,073 103,130,326 37,748,958 1879. . 64,389 151,131,767 75,754,117 1880. . 39,091 164,437,225 68,387.204 1881. . 52,298 138,787,745 61,403,671 1882. . 78,895 106,165,038 40,696,384 1883. . 53,098 139,858,558 70,924,732 SHIPMENTS. 1874. .231,350 262,931,462 82,209,887 1875. .313,713 362,941,943 115,616,093 1876. .319,344 467,289,100 138,216,376 1877. .296,457 479.926,231 147,000,616 1878. .346,366 747,363,774 244,323,933 1879. .354,255 835,629,540 251,020,205 1880. .267,324 958,036,113 333,539,138 1881. .319,999 782,993,729 278.531,733 1882. .435,625 615,822,951 235,473,520 1883. .400,552 674,499,355 246,720,366 LIVE STOCK. A TEAK THAT HAS NEVEB BEEN EQUALED. In many respects the year 1883 in the Chi- cago live stock trade has been more remark- able than its predecessor, while in some par- ticulars the year stands out in bold relief, showing records that have never been equaled or even approached, in the memory of the pioneers in the trade. As a live stock market Chicago eclipses anything that has been known here in the past; never was there such an extensive and varied demand for all kinds of stock as has been developed within the past twelve months. Who would have thought, even five years ago, that any market in the world could successfully and advantageously handle an average of more than 40,000 cattle per week for a period of seven or eight successive weeks? The figures seem almost incredible even now, though the performance is a matter of record. The capacity of the Union Stock Yards has been added to considerably during the year; the chain of viaducts for handling hogs over- head, in driving to the packing houses, has been increased, and the yard room is also much greater than last year. DECREASE IN HOGS. The receipts of stock for the year greatly surprised everyone, both as to quantity and quality. From the reports circulated early in the year many thought that the re- ceipts of hogs would necessarily show a fall- ing off of several hundred thousand, whereas the decrease has been only about 160,000: and if the increased weight^of the hogs this year over last be reduced to porkers the sup- plies for the past year would have been fully 50,OOO head more than in 1882. This is estimating the weight of the hogs at 250 pounds. Despite the talk about the scarcity of cattle which was indulged in to consider- able extent early in the season, the arrivals of that kind of stock were entirely unprecedented. and showed an increase of about 300,000 head over the receipts of 1882. In sheep the increase was about 125,000 head, which is a handsome gain. There certainly never was a year with so many successive banner days, weeks, and months for receipts of cattle and sheep. Nothing very extraordinary occurred in the hog department; at least there was nothing to press the largest day on record Nov. 25, 1879 when 64,643 hogs arrived; but the quality and quantity of the arrivals all during the summer caused much aston- ishment Prices during the year have been very good on the whole, and for hogs in particular, dur- ing the past few months, have been higher than anticipated. No kind of stock sold so high as in the preceding year, but prices were more uniform and reliable. JOB FOREIGN MABKETB. The export demand has been good and shippers to foreign markets during the last half of the year were busy and successful Early in the season, however, cattle export- ers made large contracts for vessel room and vast sums of money were lost in April and May. In fact the first half of the year was very disastrous for exporters of live cattle. The climax came in June when the pens were flooded with the finest of cattle for weeks at a time and prices then touched the bottom. From that time to the close the prices for cat- tle were upward, and the closing month wit- nessed the highest rate* of the year. In the hog and sheep export trade there were no particularly new developments. For the most part such stock is shipped drressed. Foreign mutton markets have been favorable and the only difficulty in the way of a magnificent trade in that line from this country was the ina- bility of purchasers to get stock of good quality. Of late, however, there has been a notable improvement in the quality of the sheep coming to market,;md it is evident that it will not be many years before America can hold her own with any country at producing mutton of high quality. There has been a steady demand in England for our mutton, and prices have been temptingly high, but the stock was lacking to supply the demand. The reported late action of the French Gov- ernment in raising the embargo on our hog products has had a noticeable effect upon 132 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. the market for hogs, but this action will probably be abandoned, or the decree only re- moved temporarily. THE TOTAL VALUATION. The total valuation of live stock received at Chicago during the year was about $200,- 000,000. The total valuation of live stock received since the opening of the yards is $1.889.487,051, making an average of $104,971,000 for each year since the opening. Thus it will be seen that 1883, which was $204,000,000, was about doub.e the average for the whole time. The valuation of 1883 shows an increase of $8,000,000 over its predecessor. During the past year the daily receipts averaged 6,000 cattle. 18,000 hogs, and 2,400 sheep. During the month of October the receipts of cattle averaged over 8,000. The number of car-loads of all kinds of live stock received at the Union Stock Yards in 1883 reached almost 200,000, and the car- loads shipped oat was 73,800. Included in the number of cattle purchased by canners and dressed-beef operators are 140,000 slaughtered by G. H. Hammond & Co.. at Hammond. Ind., which are also in- cluded in the shipments of live cattle. This must be borne in mind when deducting tne live shipments and dressed beef from re- ceipts to get the nnmber of cattle left for local consumption. It must also be remem- bered that Armour & Co. have the largest local meat market in the country, and that a great deal of the beef handled by canners and refrigerator men is used for city use. The receipts and shipments of live stock at Chicago for the past year are given below : KECEIPTS. KONTH8. Cattle. 'Calv's.' Hogs. Sheep. H'rs's. 69(8 1,465 2,335 1,667 1,409 1,522 944 1,146 1,314 1,261 898 486 January February March April 165,540 118,586 141,795 117.068 134,531 140.773 153,228 184,678 172,888 217,791 167,393 186,167 1,056 853 1,596 2,408 3,860 1.75SS 1,979 2,476 5.220 4,001 2,716 2,306 740,674 455,289 269,(>66 240,969 370,849 396,015 351,820 319,225 3:;7,986 516,949 890.684 750,499 75,939 75,442 79.691 70,700 41,361 35,876 32,870 50.268 61,423 77.925 69,613 78,626 May June.. .. Jnlv August September . . October November... December... Total.... 1882 1,878,944 30,223 1,582,530 24,965 5.040.625 5,817,504 749,734 628,887 15,143 13,856 SHIPMENTS. MONTHS. Cattle. Calv's. Hogs. Sheep. 40,304 44.623 55,677 4.V270 17,562 11,620 6,955 17,845 27,271 32.098 31,385 42,151 H'rs's. 696 1,425 3,335 1,608 1,294 1,398 944 1.027 1,281 1,194 898 499 January I'Vbrnary March April 87,967 68,493 80,341 69.034 74,937 76,581 74.723 90,617 82,990 80.792 77,886 245 148 304 1.078 1,3 8 183 119 654 3,530 1,961 1,945 1,146 90,230 112,639 130,807 95,136 64,662 85.735 106,841 94,3o8 134,822 1B4.H47 108,997 130,568 May . June July August September.. October November... December... Total 966,75RU2,K7l!l.319,192 ':>72,761 14,599 1882 : 921,009 ,10,229 1.747.722,314,200,12,788 BED LETTER DATS. The largest day's receipts on record at the Union Stock yards were as follows: Cattle, Nov. 15, 1882 12,076 Calves. Sept. 28, 1881 1,428 Hoes, Nov. 25, 1879 64,643 Sheep, Dec. 5,1883 7,982 Horses, March 21, 18S1 369 The largest weekly receipts were as fol- lows: Cattle, week ending Oct. 20. 1883 52,192 Calves, week ending Aug. 27, 1881 3.366 Hogs, week ending Nov. 20. 1880 300 488 Sheep, weekending Dec. 21, 1883 26,O40 Horses, week ending March 26, 1881 1,125 The largest monthly receipts were as fol- lows: Cattle, October, 1882 217791 Calves, August, 1881 11,'604 Hogs, November, 1880 1111997 Sheep, March, 1883 '". 79,691 Horses, March, 1881 2' 564 The largest yearly receipts ' were as 'fol- lows: Cattle, 1883 :. 1,878,944 Calves, 1881 48498 Hogs, 1880 .7,059,365 Sheep, 1883 749,734 Horses, 1873... 20,289 CATTLE. THE BANNEB TEAS. The vast and unprecedented receipts of cattle for the year show that the last was a busy one in this branch of the live stock trade. The simple figures, showing an ag- gregate of nearly 1,900,000 head of cattle, tell a wonderful story, but figures have such a hard, matter-of-fact way of expression that we can seldom realize what they mean from the surface; we must study back of them. You see figures representing nearly 1,900,000 cattle, and are not particularly struck with their significance, because in this we deal so extensively with huge figures tnat we cannot appreciate the value of ficrures standing for a few millions only. Familiarity breeds something of contempt for large figures, but if we stop to think what a herd the last year's receipts of cattle would make altogether; how far they would reach if placed in single file ; how many men and millions of money were required to han- dle them, then we get some idea of what the figures represent. The year 1882 was a remarkable one in the matter of heavy receipts, but it was eclipsed inevery respect by its successor. Last year stands as the banner year, and also records the banner days, weeks, and months. HIGH AND LOW PBICES. The highest prices for the year occurred in March and December. The lowest wore re- corded in June and July. Early in the year there was considerable excitement in the trade, and it looked for a time in March as if people expected a cattle famine. The Advanced rates brought unprecedented receipts of good cattle, and in fact all Kinds of cattle, and the boom was followed by a serious reaction. Country shippers went wild in February, March, and April, and made contracts at current prices for June delivery, which entailed the heaviest general losses that were ever known. Vast numbers of cattle sold for $2 per hundred less than they cost in the country. Instead of fat cattle be- ing scarce in the summer months they were more than usually abundant, and the calcu- lations of a great many went away on that account The general demand for cattle was strong- throughout, and the most wonderful thing in connection with the very neavy receipts was the manner in which they were disposed of. It was not an uncommon thing for the mar- ket to be strong and active throughout with 45,000 head per week on sale. A YEAB OF SURPRISES. Such a strong general demand was never before known, and on that account the prog- nostications of the most experienced dealers CHICAGO; FIRST HALF CENTUEY. 133 were more frequently wrong 1 than otherwise. It was indeed a year of surprises, especially as there were many who, as loner ago as 1881, confidently expressed the opinion thac the maximum of Chicago's cattle trade had been reached. In years gone by the supplies of fine, thor- oughly mature beeves were drawn almost exclusively from nearby sections, where a few breeders and feeders had established rep- utations for prime stock, but this year there have been hardly any sectional limits Nebraska, Kansas, and other Western States contributing beeves sa remarkable in quality as those for which our best Illinois" breeders are re- nowned. It is not very long since it was possible for cattle men of experience to reckon just how many prime beeves were fattening for market, so limited was the number of men who made a practice of put- ting a thorough fiuish on their stock before consigning to the butcher. But that day is forever past. Then it was thought that fine stock, improved methods, and, in short, "book-farming," as it was called, was only for country gentlemen who raised stock and cultivated farms because they fancied it, and had no other way in which they preferred to spend their surplus. But now it is being very generally understood that the poorer the man the more he is in need of using only the best methods; that none but the wealthy can afford the questionable luxury of scrub stock. CHICAGO FAT STOCK SHOW. Never was there a year when there was so much activity in the fine-stock markets as during the past The great Chicago Fat Stock Show that has now been held in the Exposition Building for six years has done much to incite breeders and feeders to better methods. Even yet, however, the common cattle are those that are rough and unfin- ished, but at the present rate of improve- ment it is evident that it cannot be very long before the cattle that are now called extra will be more common than those that are so called now. Never was the canning and dressed-beef trade so strong and reliable. Cows and mixed stock have sold well at all times, ex- cept when in competition with Texans. Receipts of Texas cattle were about 100,- 000 head less than in 1882, which fact makes all the more remarkable the enormous gen- eral gain in receipts. Bange cattle were two months later than usual in coming to market. In the Southwest the drought was the cause, and in the Northwest the unprecedented rainfall made grass so rank that catt le did not fat solidly. Thus it is shown that the ranchmen must not have either too much or too little water. The high prices of the pre- ceding year drained the herds more closely than usual, and ranchmen were not willing to part with their verv young stock at the prices. Indeed, about 80,000 head of young stock cattle were sent from "the States" to Wyoming, Nebraska, Colorado, and Montana. This is something previously unknown. The result of the ex- periment " is awaited with much interest. Banchmen are rather confident as to the prospects for next year, and many thousand beeves that were ready to come this year, had prices been satisfactory, are being carried over for the spring market. DISTILLEKY CATTLE. A large business was done in distillery cat- tle, but the trade was more concentrated: that is, the enormous profits of 1882 induced the heavy cattle feeders to go into the trade so extensively that the room for placing cat- tle in distilleries was soon exhausted at ad- vanced rates, and the small fry were rather crowded out. Distillery cattle realized handsome profits, selling at $4. 50(3)6. 50, the bulk going at $5@ 6: but the same tind of cattle sold in 1882 at $5@8. 90, and made much more for the f eed- ers. It is only within a year or two that it has been considered that slop-fed cattle of like weight and quality dress as much beef as corn-fed stock. Distillery bulls sold at $3.50@5.40, against $-t.50@6 in 1882. The trade in Eastern dairy calves was very light, but during the year a goodly number sold at about $10 to $18 per head to goto Western feeders. Several thousand went be- yond the Missouri to ranchmen. BANGE OF PBICES. The extreme range of prices for shipping cattle during the past twelve months are given below, with current quotations for 1879, 1880, 1881. and 1882: Steers av. Steers av. Steers av. 1,500 to2,200 l,350tol,500 l,200tol,350 $4.80(36.10 $4.55(36.00 5.00(36.25 4.70(36.00 5.35(37.05 5.15(37.00 5.80(36.90 5.50(36.75 5.75(36.65 5.45@6.50 5.40(36.30 5.10(36.30 5.25(36.35 4.65(36.25 5.00@6.40 4.25@6.20 5.15(36.50 4.10(36.15 5.10(37.00 4.35(37.00 5.15(36.55 4.25(36.30 5.35@7.12 4.55(36.75 4.80(37.12 4.10(37.00 4.70(39.00 4.25(39.00 4.40(37.25 3.80(37.00 4.30(36.00 3.50(35.50 3.90(35.50 3.20@5.00 DISTILLERY CATTLE, STOCKEBS, AND FEEDEBS. The following will be found t&e range of prices on distillery cattle, stockers, and feed- ers for the past twelve months: Monti Jan.. Feb. . Marcl April. May. June July. Aug . Sept. Oct., Nov . Dec Distillery cattle ranged d~iiriiag 1883. . .4.50(36.50 Distillery cattle ranged during 1SS2. . .5.00(38.90 Distillery bulls ranced during 1883. ...3.50(35.40 Distillery bulls ranged during 1882. . .4.50(36.00 TEXANS AKD FAB-WEST CATTLE. The table given below shows the range of prices for the past season on grass Texans, wintered Texans. and Western natives: Grass Tex- Witntered Far- West Jan .$5.35(36.50 Feb.... . 5.90(37.00 March . . . 5.90@7.30 April . . . 6.10@7.10 May... . 5.90(36.75 June . . 5.75(36,30 July. . . . 5.55(36.40 Aug. . . . .. 5.75@6.55 Sept. . 5.90(36.50 Oct.... 6.10@7.35 Nov.... . 6.20@7.35 Dec ... 6.20@8.25 1883.. 5.35@8.25 1882.. 5.40@9.30 1881.. 5.30(38.00 1880.. 5.00(37.00 1879.. . 4.50(36.00 a, Dis. Cattle. .. $5.20(35.75 .. 4.70(35.60 .. 5.25@6.50 . 5.25(36.20 . 4.50@6.40 . 4.75@6.10 . 5.30(36.30 . 5.50(36.10 . 5.40(36.15 Stockers. $2.90(34.15 3.10(34.30 3.10@4.75 3.25@4.80 3.00(34.90 2.90(34.60 3.00(34.30 2.60@4.00 2.70(34.05 2.50(33.90 Feeders. $3.50(34.80 3.75(35.10 4.20(35.70 4.25(35.65 4.40(35.80 4.00(35.30 3.85(34.90 3.90@4.75 3.85(34.60 4.45@4.65 2.20@3.75 3.40(34.50 2.50(34.30 3.80(34.75 Month. May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec. ... ans. $4.20(Si().00 3.50@5.50 3.40@5.50 3.00@5.15 3.50@4.75 3.25@4.55 3.35@4.75 4.00(35.10 Texans. $3.75(35.25 3.35(35.20 3.40(34.75 3.35@5.00 3.50(34.65 4.00(34.75 natives. $4.'56@4.'65 3.60@5.70 3.90@5.65 3.65@6.00 3.85@6.25 4.80(35.10 The table following gives comparative fig. 134 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. Years 1883. 1882. 1881. 1880... ures for four years past extreme range of prices : Grass Tex- Wintered Far- West ans. Texans. natives. $3.00@6.00 $3 35@5.2o $3.60@6.2o ;.SO 3.40@5.50 3.7> _'.-:. -'.VOO 2.90@4.65 o.'_T)^5. U) 1.75@3.75 2.50@3.75 2.70@4.50 Below will be found receipts of grass Tex- ans and far- West cattle for the past four years: Grass Far-west Year Texans. cattle. 1883 256,340 176,680 1882 . 346,300 220,700 1881 143,380 190,500 1880 88,000 109,500 Prices for range cattle were higher than in 1881, but lower than in 1882. It was a no- table fact that through grass Texans sold as high or higher than wintered and double- wintered Texans from the Northwest This, together with wire fences and railway facili- ties, will tend to curtail the annual drive of young Texans to the North to be wintered. COMPAKATITE RECEIPTS AND SHIPMENTS. The receipts and shipments of cattle at Chicago during the past ten years have been as follows: Tear. Received No. Shipped No. 1874 843,966 622,929 1875 920,843 696,534 1876 . 1,096,745 797,724 1877... 1,033.151 703,402 1878... 1,083,068 699,108 1879 .... 1-215732 726,903 1880 1,382,477 886,614 1881... 1,498,550 938,712 1882 1,582,472 920,453 1883 1,878,944 966,758 It will be seen that from 1877 there has been a steady and marked increase In the volume of receipts. The arrivals for 1883 were double the receipts of 1875. DRESSED BEEF. PBEPABING MEAT FOB EASTEBW BKSTAUBANTS. The most remarkable growth in the cattle trade has been the advancement of the dressed beef business. Some idea of the growth and magnitude of the canninsr and dressed beef business may be obtained from the fact that fully half of the total receipts of cattle for the year went into cans and re- frigerator cars at Chicago to be distributed to the consumers of the East. The following shows the principle purchases of that kind of stock: Swift Bros. ut that time, however, the demand for light meats fell off, and prime hogs, when they were beginning 1 to get scarce, took their proper relative posi- tion at the HEAD OF THB MBT on the range of value* Under light receipts and strong demand prices in the early spring were unreasonably high, but from March, which was the highest month, there was a steady downward movement till the 1st of November, since when the tendency has been upward. Many hogs were sold here in November which could have been sold in the country six months before for $2 per 100 Ibs. more. All the time the reports were coming from the country that the supplies were getting short, but receipts were increasing here and the quality of the stock indicated anything but the last scrapings of a short crop. The advance in prices during the last two months was rattier unusual and unlocked for, as the first two months of the packing season are generally the lowest Packers had to grin and bear it, however. They had their choice of paying the prices or allowing their contracts to go unfilled. For a time many of them stubbornly held off on the ground that prices were too high; but it was not very long, and for a month after the middle of November every packer was in the trade. There has probably never been a year when the operators were so completely non- plussed, when they were so entirely in the dark as to the best policy to pursue. It is said that some of them always know how things are going, but this year the best of the packers did not seem able to tell which way the feline would bound. BANGE OP PBICBS. The extreme range of prices for hogs dur- ing the past twelve months is given below, with current quotations for 1879, 1880, 1881. and 1882: Heavy pack- ing and shipping. $6.05(37.10 6.60@7.65 6.95@8.15 7.25@8.10 7.00@7.85 6.OO@7.25 4.90@6.25 4.90@5.85 4.70@5.50 4.40@5.30 4.40@5.50 4.75@6.20 4.40<8.15 6.00@9.35 4.75@7.50 4.30(<36.90 Rough Months, packing. Jan... $5.40@6.45 Feb... 5.90@7.00 March. 6.15@7.65 April 6.85@7.70 May. 6.60@7.50 June 5.60@6.90 July. 4.85@5.90 Aug. 4.35@5.50 Sept. 4.25@5.05 Oct.. 3.90@4.90 Nov... 3.90@5.00 Dec .. 4.30@5.60 1883.. 3.90@7.70 1882.. 5.40@8.65 1881.. 4.30@6.95 1880. . 4.00@5.15 1879.. 2.60@4.20 2.80@4.45 Light bacon $5.50@6.55 5.90@7.15 6.10O7.75 6.90@7.75 6.70@7.60 5.70O7.0O 5.0O@6.55 5.10@6.50 4.60@6.0O 4.35@5.40 4.00@5.00 4.25@5.60 4.00@7.75 5.30@8.75 4.40@7.00 4.10(95.30 2.60@4,05 BECEIPTS AND SHIPMENTS COMPABED. The receipts and shipments of hogs at Chi- cago during the past ten years were as follows: Year. Received, No. Shipped, No. 1874 4,258,370 2,330,361 1875 3,912,110 1,582,643 1876 4,190,006 1,131,635 1877. 4.025,970 951,221 1878 6,339,654 1,266.906 1879. i... 6,448,330 1,692,361 1880 7,059,355 1,364,990 1881 6,474,844 1,289,679 1882 5,817,504 1,746,555 1883 5,640,625 1,319,192 There has been a general growth in vol- ume of receipts from the opening of the yards, but 1880 was the heaviest year on record, and it will be seen that current re- ceipts are smaller than 1878. There is one 136 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. point in which the arrivals of 1882 exceeded all others, however, and that was early ma- turity and quality. SHEEP. MUTTON EATING ON THE INCREASE. That mutton eating is on the increase is no longer a matter of doubt There is an in- creasing demand for good mutton, and it is also becoming easier for the lover of "leg o' mutton" and - 'lamb chops" to have his taste gratified. The time was, and not very long ago, when if a person could find mutton on the bill of fare in the average restaurant he would hardly be able to tell that he was not trying to masticate a chunk of succulent sole leather, but for the said bill of fare which described it as mutton. Receipts of sheep at Chicago were the heaviest on record, and on the whole it was the most satisfactory year's business that has been done in the sheep market Floods of Texas and Western stock of in- ferior quality kept aver/ wide range between good and common sheep, but the average quality of the receipts was not to be com- plained of when all things were taken into account It is only lately that the shep- herds of the West have deemed it necessary to pay any attention to anything but wool, and they have received but little encouraga- ment to fit their sheep for the butcher. The refusal of most of the Western roads to supply double-deck cars has been one of the greatest drawbacks to the trade. Sheep can- not be shipped from the West in single-decks, and make money, because the shipper is com- pelled to pay for a whole load, while in reality he only gets in enough weight for half a load. The general demand for sheep has greatly improved since the last review, and SHEEP-BAISERS FEEL ENCOUBAGED. The interest which the dressed meat folks are taking in the trade is having a good, ef- fect, and will eventually develop into some- thing greatly to the advantage of mutton raisers. The dressed mutton operators have not been able to do much be- cause the supplies have been insufficient, in quality if not in quantity. But the trade is growing and there is no good reason why it should not continue to grow. Prices for sheep were" not very extreme, except in the cass of inferior grades, which at times glutted the market, f.nd there were no very high prices paid for the best of the offerings. At the same time the general prices averaged well and good sheep com- manded satisfactory figures. The export demand was good and the con- dition of foreign markets would have justi- fied a much heavier trade had sheep of good quality been forthcoming in greater nuin- bera Fewer sheep from the far West were sent to market than in the previous year, but there was continually an oversupply of low arade native sheep. EXTREME RANGE OF PRICES. The extreme range of prices for sheep dur- ing the past twelve months are given below with comparisons: Months. Native?. Texan*. Westerns Jan $2.00@5.87 $2.25@3.75 $3 50@4.75 Feb 2.Ot)@6.50 2.4O@3.SO 3.60@5.15 March... 2.25@7.75 2.75@4.40 4.10@6.OO April 3.75@7.50 3.OO@3.75 4.35@6.50 May 3.15@0.50 3.20(@5.)0 1.70@3,75 3.20@5.25 Aug 2.25 a judicious management in sending stocks forward as the market showed an ability to absorb it, there was scarcely a time when the market was glutted." The sluggish character of the yard trade during most of the season induced the yard dealers to persistently DEMAND CONCESSIONS ON CARGOES. In this they were partly successful, their efforts being seconded by a number of large failures in the trade in Michigan and other sections of the country. The depression in other lines of business also contributed to render dealers conservative. Piece stuff opened in April at $10 to $10.50 per M, against $12.50 to $13 the corresponding month in 1882. In May a decline of 50c was recorded, and pieces settled to $9,50 and $10.50. During June. July, and August they ranged at 19 to $10. The reduction on common and medium grades of boards and strips was nearly as severe. At the close of the cargo season it was generally -encoded very little money had been made, and Michigan manufacturers, as a rule, claimed that they would have been richer had they left the'ir timber standing. The Mississippi districts, while rather more fortunate, have little cause for congratula- tion, and the same may be said of other localities. The constant denudation of the timber lands is annually removing the sup- ply of logs further from the mills, and neces- sarily increasing the cost of logging. During the past season this was equal- ized by lower rates of wages, and supplies, hence there was no material ad- vance in the expenses of manufacturing, ex- cept in the enhanced value of the timber, which is steadily appreciating as the supply diminishes. The early closing of the mills, coupled with a disposition of mill-owners to restrict supplies, caused about 25 per cent of last winter's log- output to be carried over. It is also conceded that the volume of lumber now piled at the mills is equal to last year. The outlook for the present winter's work in the woods is good, but there is a disposition to conservatism, and no important excess in the supply of lumber for next year is antici- pated. Stocks in the country are not large, and although nothing like a boom is looked for. the best informed dealers regard the situation as healthy. THE BANGE OF PRICES FOR CARGOES Of standard green piece stuff, boards and strips, shingles and lath at the exchange docks during the navigation season of 1883, which opened April 2 and closed about Dec. 8, and for corresponding period in 1882, were as follows: PIECE STUFF. 1883. 1882. April $10.00 to 10.50 $12.50 to 13.00 May 9.50to 10.50 11. 00 to 12.00 June 9.00 to 10.00 10. 75 to 11. 50 July 9.00 to 10.00 10 50 to 11.25 August 900to 10.00 ll.OOto 11.75 September 9-OOto 9.75 10. 75 to 11. 50 October 9.00 to 9.75 10.OO to 11.25 November 9.00 to 10.00 10.50 to 11. 50 December. 9. 75 to 10. 25 1 1. 00 to 1 1 . 5< ) BOARDS AND STRIPS. 1883. April $ to 12.50 May 12.00 to 22.00 June ll.OOto 22.00 July 11. 00 to 20.00 August 10.50 to 20. 00 September 10.50 to 20.00 October 10.5O to 16.00 November 10.50 to 17.00 December 11.50 to 17.50 1882. $12.50 to 20.00 11.50 to 22.0O 11.25 to 2 1.00 11/25 to 21.00 12.50 to 22.00 13.00 to 22.OO 13.00 to 22.00 12.25 to 22.0O 12.50 to 22.50 SHINGLES. . 1883. . 1882. Standard. Extra g 'A." Extra "A." April.. .$2.t>0 to$2.(>5 $2.75 to $2.80 $2.85 to $2.95 May... . 2.50 to 2.65 2.55 to 2.80 2.75 to 2.95 June.... 2.25 to 2.55 2.40 to 2.85 2.60 to 2.95 July... . 2.25 to 2.40 2.40 to 2.80 2.50 to 2.95 August . 2.00 to 2.40 2.40 to 2.80 2.75 to 3.OO Sept... . 2.00 to 2.'-'0 2.40 to 2.60 2.8o to 3.00 October . 2.00 to 2.20 2.20 to 2.60 2 79 to 2.95 Novem'r. 2.00 to 2.20 2.20 to 2.05 2.70 to 2.95 Deo 2.15 to 2.25 2.30 to 2.80 2.80 to 3.00 LATH. , 1883. 1882. April $ to $2.25 None received. May 2.10 to 2.25 $2.35to$2.4O June 1.75 to 2.25 2.30 to 2.40 July 1.75 to 2.10 2.20 to 2.30 August 1.50 to 2.10 2.00 to 2.25 September 1.50 to 1.70 2.25 October 1.50 to 1.75 2.25 November 1.50 to 1.75 2.25 December 1.65 to 1.80 2.25 to 2.30 THE YARD BUSINESS. The yard trade has been exceedingly spas- modic, and the result quite different from the anticipations indulged in at the begin- ning of the year. The reported stocks in the yards Jan. 1, 1883, aggregated 655,013,520 feet, against 500,416^842 feet Jan. 1, 1882, snowing an excess of 94,596,678 feet As already stated the stocks piled at the mills by manufacturers who were either unwilling to sell or unable to ship ere the close of nav- igation were larger than customary. But the previous year's business had been profit- able, and with low rates of freight to Mis- souri Eiver and other Western points, buy- ers from those sections were willing- to take liberal supplies, and the first half of Janu- ary witnessed an active outward movement at well supported prices. The free movement of grain and live stock to market and the strong upward movement in prices of such farm productions also en- couraged yard dealers.to suppose that farm- ers would be disposed to make liberal pur- chases of lumber for improvements. It soon became apparent that these hopes were not well founded, and after the early demand was filled, there was a decided lull, which was more marked as the month advanced, and the outlook tor other branches of trade became less promising. The severity of the weather likewise proved adverse to a free distribution and the close of January and the first half of February were as remarkable for dullness as the early part of the former month had been for activity. The absence of buyers increased 138 CHICAGO'S FTB8T HALF CENTURY. the desire to Mil, and thosa who had heavy YABD PBICBS. wirn COMPARISONS. tocks bought at full prices were The following shows the prices at the NOT DISPOSED TO KKFUSI AN OFFEB, 7*?* On Jan ' ^ 1883 ' ftnd f r thfi 8ame tim6 . . last vear: providing it t>ossessed the semblance or fair- 1883. 1882. ness The pressure to realize caused consid- First and second clear wide, 3-inch.. $49.00 $50.00 erable settlement in prices of coarse dimen- ^^ second clear Ae - \ and 4900 ^^ sion stuff and boards and strips, and although f^ t and second clear t'wide" i-inchi 47 .'oo 46.00 there were spurts of activity, and at times First and second ciear -wide, l 1 * and signs of strength, there was no time during j^^^^^^^-"^-'^ gg %$ the year when the situation was sufficiently A 8alect- lnon ;* 36 .o5 34 . 00 strong to secure ana maintain any material A select. 2-inch 41.00 37.00 advance on these descriptions. The vote of S se } ec M nc ?-v,--"' h 2 '!$ the Exchange at the close of November to in- f/ 4 e c !eL and select foietli^-:::. "" ilSo crease card rates 50c@$l per M on a 2x4 B select 23.00 23.00 number of grades was not fully observed, but 2x6 clear and select 34.00 the same list was readopted on Dec. 29, to J'g&SSMfe:.::.::::: i!3o So remain in force through January. 7 and 8-inch select base 29.00 29.00 The upper grades, being less plentv, suf- Thin clear and select, 9 inch ana up. 25.00 25.00 foi-ori a ^rkmnnT-Q-t-iirol-ir Bmall /WOine Rnri First common flooring, D. and M.... 3i.OO 37.00 tered a comparatively small decline, and second common flooring 34.00 34.00 some are nominallv a shade higher than at Third common flooring 36.00 25.00 the close of 1882. ft is generally conceded Fencing flooring 17.00 18.00 that the only dealers who have made even a iSSn'^^:. ;;;;;:;;;;;;;;;; gfj S fair interest on their money invested during second common sidmg 18.50 19.00 the year were those who cut their own lum- Third common siding 14.00 14.00 Inn- 1-liu <->i-Hino-i-r traWl Hoal^T ainirui.- heincr Fencing Siding 9.50 10.50 simply being Cjear c ^ lUn? & M ^ 4 ^ tj. mcn . 2 3.50 23.50 a sort of commercial philanthropist, who did First common ceiling, 3 8, 4 or 6-inch 22.50 22.50 a large business, which entailed a great deal Second common ceiling, 3s, 4 or 6- of hard work and risk, for the benefit of the T^ ^"-- " n ^YiinViLdorfrV^h r^oo is' mill owners and country customera The 2^$ga?d%.>*.".^ #.oo #00 year closed, however, with moderate supplies B box, 13-inch and over 42.00 41.00 in the interior, and prices down where any C box, 13-inch and over 32.00 further depreciation would curtail produc- 2*>& %%to C gi'X&l6iti ll'.oo 39.00 tion, and the best advised and most judicious B stock, 12-inch, 12, 14, and 16 feet. 37.00 35.00 dealers regard the situation as promising C stock, 12-inch. 12, 14, and itj feet. 32.00 30.00 more profitable results during the'incoming g S; ^nch. 12, 14. and ibfeet. 20.00 19.00 year. C stock, 10-inch, 13. 14. and 16 feet. 25.00 25.00 In the annual review of the lumber trade Common fencing, 12 to 18 feet, 11.50 fnr 19 TAforpnfA -araa TnH in TTTP T-MTPW Common ooards, 12, 14, 16, and 18 ft 12.50 14.50 b . Common boards. 10 nd 20 ft, 12-in. 14.50 15.00 OCEAN to the tact that the construction of common 4-inch fencing, 12, 14, and railroads into many of the chief lumber 16 feet ; 16-00 16.00 HiHtrir>ta nf the 'Mr>rth'Wat -BTH.B Miano-incr Hi Timber, joist, and Scantling, 2x4, 2x Listricts ot tUe JN orttiwest was changing tJie 12 _ 14 J and j 6 {eet 13 50 IBOO courseof the trade by causing shipments to 2x6, 2x8, 2x10, 12, 14, and 16 feet.... 12.50 15.50 be made Timber, 4x4 to 8xS, inclusive, 12, 14, DraBCT FBOM THI MILLS TO CONSUMING POINTS l fi 6 0^*0^0 && IS feet ifio in the West This branch of the business has is feef 2^4, 4x4 wlx8, inclusiveV.:'.'. 14.50 16.00 undergone a larger development during the 2x4, 4x4, and small timber. 10 and year under review, and has been a factor in 20 feet.. 15.00 reducing tbe arrivals here and at other lead- cu mm fank . ""r?"::::.':::. ."":.': lo.'oo I2!oo ing distributing points, and its influence is Common pickets' 8.00 9.00 likely to be felt in a still greater degree each Pickets, flat, rough, good ...... succeeding year But tie position of Chi- !ffig;12&*$SS l!$ %$ cago as the great financial and trade center Shingles, extra A 3.00 3.20 ot the country, in connection with the large Shingles, standard 2.50 investments of its capitalists piin ne forests E.tffe cedar> A I'lo 275 sas?s t^s ss 5 ffissassa -^^'^^^ m . ness of the Northwest. A feature of the cur- rent year s yard transactions, and one which jg promises to show greater expansion in the taaf future has been the large increase in the re- 18 | h ' e ' bomp^ati receipts of the article ceipts here ot Southern yellow pine, winch is mentioned below were as follows: rapidly growing in favor as a finishing wood 1883 1882 in expensive residences and offices. Lumber, ft 1,839,941,000 ' 2,110,841,000 STOCKS ON HAND. Shingles, No 1,140,000.000 954,000,000 The stocks of lumber, lath, and shingles Lath, pcs 65,477,000 59,737,000 on Jan. 1, from 1870 to 1884, inclusive, ? sts 'P cs ?'l X f'off nrore as follnws- Ties, No I,714,d8 3,t>44.711 Wood, cords.... 22,737 67,092 t? h"pr cjhin^^. T , Slabs, cords.... 26,283 24,255 timber. bnmirles. Lath. Tia.rk- rorrlt; 2fi Ofi5 221RO 1874.. 328,517, 742 29,542,000 28,830,150 Tel eK Va D n poles' 175293 250867 1875.. 344,252,275 81,019,000 39,551,850 iele * r *P n ' DO1 ' ^ou,b/ 1876.. 352,587, 730 83,230.750 47,058,150 1877.. 369,381,007 97,467,000 36,823,400 HARDWOOD LUMBER. 1878.. 385,569,024 125,640,000 43,694,000 1879.. 410, 773, 860 200,750,500 41,272,300 TBADE EATHEB UNSATISFACTORY. 1880.. 451,282,059 190,057,000 48.630,800 The trade in hardwood lumber the past 1881 497,840,673 188,722,000 50,321,000 1882.. 560,416.842 260,900,494 48,820,438 year and the preceding one was on a whole 1883.. 655,013.520 299,946,350 76,361,002 rather unsatisfactory, but still the aggregate 1884.*640,000,000 400,OOQ,000 40,000,OOO moveme nt was large, the receipts here for Estimated. the year being estimated at 280,000,000 CHICAGO'S FIRST H*TJT CBNTUBY. 139 feet, and in 1882 at 300,000,000 feet The boom given walnut in 1880-81 has reacted, and done more harm than good, as it caused a large increase in the supply, especially of common and culls, but on choice its effect was not so marked. There was less desire manifested by furniture manufacturers and general workers in hardwood to purchase more than their wants required, and the bulk of the trade throughout the year was of a hand to mouth character. The year opened with liberal stocks and a smail trade, which continued until April, with concessions con- stantly being made on commou in order to effect sales. During that month and the one following more life was exhibited, and as stock was continually forced on the market the feeling became weak and unsettled and prices lower, except for good cherry, which, owing to a limited supply, held up well Orders during the late spring were better, es- pecially for cherry, red oak, maple and other woods used chiefly in house finishing-, but walnut was less in favor. The fall sales were more liberal, and the best of the year, but it lacked the spirit that characterized the trade in former seasons. Prices on Walnut declined ?2 to $3 per m, but on cherry and other escriptions remaied very firm, on account of the moderate offerings, and during the closing weeks cherry advanced $5 per m, and closed firm. The supply of oak and ash in the regions where it has been obtained for a long time is becoming smaller every year. The stock of hardwood lumber here on Dec, 1 was 41, 156,991 feet against 31,040,470 feet Jan. 1, and 34,214,500 feet Jan. 1, 1882. COAL. ILLINOIS THE SECOND STATB. In the production of coal Illinois stands the second State in the Union, Pennsylvania being first, and Ohio third. The area of its coal fields, however, is the largest, being 45,000 square miles, as reported by the geo- logical survey, as against 12,774 in Pennsyl- vania, 10,000 in Ohio, and 10,000 miles larger than any other State in the Union. Many experts, "however, express the opinion that "the area in Illinois is much larger than that l.iid down in the geological chart, and their opinions are strongly supported by numerous discoveries of coal veins outside of the territory designated by the surveys above noted. The growth of the coal mining industry in Illinois may be inferred from the tact that THE OUT-PUT HAS BISKN from 2,527,285 tons in 1870 to 10,508,191 tons in 1883. John S. Lord, Secretary of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, reports the pro- gress of mining as follows: Mines. 1870.... 322 1880.... 590 1882 ...704 1883.... 639 Men em- ployed. 6,301 14.078 19,420 23,939 Produc- tion. 2,624,163 6,115,377 9,115,653 10,508,791 Value. $ 6,079,432 8,779,832 13,69<;.L'r>7 15.310.551 The average value per ton for what has been produced during the past three years has undergone very little change. The aver- age for 1880 was $1.44; for 1882, $1.43, and for 1883, $1.46. Forty-nine of the 102 counties in the State contain mines in active operation. The ca- pacity of the mines is reported at 21,600,000 tons per annum, and the capital invested in mines worked is mentioned at $10,396,540. In addition to the capital and labor employed in mines and mining heavy sums are in- vested in transpsrtation facilities, and a large additional force of employes is engaged in its distribution to consumers. The coal is BITUMINOUS, and although from its dry character it is not desirable for coking by any process yet dis- covered, it is extensively used at iron works and other manufactories. It is a fine steam coal, and the leading fuel used for heating purposes throughout the State outside of Chicago, and its popularity here is steadily on the increase, wnere its cheapness and free burning qualities renders it a favorite with a very large class. During the past few years the demand has exceeded the supply. Large shipments are sent to St. Louis, where it is used more than anv other coal. The In- diana coalfields also furnish large supplies of block and bituminous coals for this market. These coals, from the comparatively short haul by rail and the cheapness with which they are mined, are deliv- ered here at lower prices than any other outside coals, and. as with those from the Illinois mines, the consumption re- sponds so closely to the output as to prevent an accumulation of stock. Liberal supplies also come from Ohio, and the rapidly INCREASING BAILBOAD FACILITIES between Chicago and the leading coal fields of that State promises to make it a far more important source of supply in the near fu- ture. The Ohio coals are noted for their high Dercentage of carbon, the readiness with which they burn, and freedom from sulphur. But their increased cost, which is mainly due to higher rates of freight than are paid on Illinois coals, induces a large number of consumers to prefer the latter as a matter of economy. Pennsylvania furnishes a liberal quantity of the bituminous, and all the anthracite coal consumed here or shipped to other points in the West and Northwest, for which Chicago is the chief distributing point Although the market has at no time de- veloped very striking features, its general condition has been fairly satisfactory throughout the year, and the volume dis- tributed larger than in 1882. The gain, however, was partly due to the severity of the weather during the first three months of the year, and the almost unprecedented low average of the temperature during the closing months of spring, which necessitated a continuance of fires in residences, offices, and public buildings, long beyond the customary period that artificial heat is ordinarily required. But the increased consumption during the first five months was partly compensated by the comparatively mild weather during a portion of the "closing quarter of the year. There was, however, an increased population to supply. This, with an im- proved demand for bituminous and hard coals from interior points that drew the bulk of their stock from here, made A LAKGEB BUSINESS than in any preceding year in the history of the trade. There was also greater consump- tion by city and interior manufacturers and gas companies. The bituminous varieties used for the latter purpose mainly come from the Youghiogheny fields in Pennsylvania. The year closes with a fairly satisfactory trade in both hard and soft coals. Stocks are fair, but not excessive, and the outlook for 140 CHICAGO'S FIKST HALF CENTURY. an increasing- output in this State good. The total production of anthracite coal in Penn- sylvania for the year just closing is reported at 30,700,000 tons, against 29,120.095 in 1882. In 1873 the production reached 21,- 227,952 tons, being 1,257,596 tons greater than in 1863. Hence it will be seen that the output has increased about 208 per cent in twenty years. RANGE OF PRICES. The following shows the opening, hiarhest, lowest, and closing prices from retailers' yards for the years named: Opening. Highest. Lowest. Closing. Lackawanna (Anthracite.) 1883 $7.75 $7.75 $6.50 $7.50 1882 8.50 8.50 6.25 7.75 1881 7.50 9.00 7.25 8.50 1880 7.00 8.00 6.00 8-OO Illinois (Wilmington.) 1883 $4.50 $4.50 $3.50 4.50 1882 5.OO 5.00 4.00 4.50 1881 6.00 6.00 4-50 5.50 1880 4.00 6.00 4.00 6.00 Briar Hill and Erie. 1883 $7.50 $7.50 $6.50 $6.50 1882 8.00 8.OO 6.00 7.50 1881 7.50 8.50 7.00 7.50 1880 7.00 8.OO 6.OO 8.OO The lowest prices were in June and July, and highest in January. RECEIPTS AND SHIPMENTS. The following table exhibits the receipts and shipments of coal at Chicago for the past sixteen years: Received, Shipped, Tear. tons. tons. 1874 1. 359,496 252,872 1875 1.641,488 365,811 1876 1,619.039 249,862 1877 1,749,091 271,146 1878 ! 1.832,033 305,694 1879 2,384,974 527,844 1880 2,706,088 621,996 1881 3,399.427 843,342 1882 3,689,798 727,477 1883 3,500,000 725.OOO SALT. ABOUT THE SAME AS LAST YEAR. The trade in salt during the year 1883 ex- hibited few features of interest. The sales showed no especial increase most dealers reported their aggregate business about the same as that of the previous year, and fully as satisfactory to both themselves and the manufacturers. Prices ranged lower than in 1882, but at the close 15c per bushel higher for fine than at the opening the range being from $1 to $1. 15 on line, and $1.35 to $1.45 on coarse. The manufacture of fine salt at Saginaw, Mich. , shows a small falling from that of 1882, but an increase over any pre- ceding year. The amount of salt made in the State of Michigan for the year ending Dec. 1, was 2,882,165 barrels, against 3,- 307,317 biirrels in 1882. The production of coarse salt in New York was only about two-thirds of that of 1882, on account of the cold and rainy weather during the early part of the seasen, but the amount of fine made was fully up to that of former years. There was a fair amount of raw salt brought here from Louisiana for the use of packers, where large beds exist on the line of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad. Although the price realized was only $8 per ton, there was not enough handled to cut any important figure in the trade. The amount of foreign salt Turk's Island and Mediterranean was larger than in former years, especially of coarse, for which the consumption was larger. Prices ruled lower at $1.25 to $1.50, and for the closing five months at $1.25 to $1.35. COUNTRY PRODUCE. A GOOD YEAR. Produce commission merchants, those en- gaged in the selling of butter, cheese, eggs, poultry, potatoes, hides, wool, etc., have transacted a large business during the past year, which, as a rule, has been profitable as well as extensive. There were seasons of temporary dullness during the year, and these periodical Spells of quietude occur, and these can be counted upon annually. The financial standing of merchants has been good, only a few small and unimportant failures having occurred; probably in no business were the failures so few and liabili- ties so small as among produce commission merchants of this city. Upon this fact can our merchants be congratulated, and it is largely due to a conservative and well managed course of carrying on this particular line of trade. The arrivals of country prod- ,uce have been very liberal, the continually increasing agricultural and farming interests in the West and Northwest, assuring Chicago, which is the central distributing point, an immense business, which under the favorable advan- tages offered and facilities at hand is yearly on the increase. The numerous railroads centering at this point traversing through the most beautiful farming lands, are extend- ing further into the interior and thus increas- ing business for commission merchants. THE DAIRYING INDUSTRY continues to expand, new cheese and butter factories being erected throughout the West and Northwest. The capital invested in the dairy interests has been variously estimated at from $5,000,000,000;to $6,000.000,000; estimating returns of 10 per cent on the money invested would produce returns of $500,000,000 to $600,000,000. Besides the dairy interest, can be mentioned an extensive trade in poultry, which represents millions of dollars yearly, and a large trade in game, the revenue of which to commission merchants alone amounts to a great many thousands of dollars in way of commission alone. How- ever, it might be stated here that the game trade the past year has been interfered with to some extent by adverse laws in some States which tended to prevent the sending of game outside of its boundries. The dried fruit trade is a large business of itself, and the green fruit and berry trade in season is an extraordinary large one. Potatoes have not been as renumerative as in former years, owing to an immense crop throughout the United States. The vegetable trade in season is also a good business, especially so the handling of early vegetables from far South- ern pointa The wool trade has been only CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 141 moderately satisfactory, the numerous fail- ures of clothing merchants having affected the wool trade very materially. SEEDS. As to the business done in this market there is every indication of it having been equal in volume to any previous year, but as figures are hard to obtain there is little to take as a comparison. One fact cannot be overlooked, however, as it argues a con- tinuous growth of this trade, and that is the enlargement and improvement of the facili- ties for handling seeds. Besides the great distribution from this market of seeds to con- sumers all over the country, a great deal of speculative interest has been attracted and the various branches of the business have been well patronized. In the values of seed as compared with the previous year, we find in some instances a gain and in otners a loss. Flax and clover have turned out the most favorable in this consideration, but timothy, Hungarian, and millet show in comparison a decline. At the opening of the year considerable firmness pervaded the market generally, but in order to define more clearly the market the several descriptions having individual features of importance it can be better understood by referring to the various departments of the trade. FLAXSEED, one of the most important of seeds, opened at $1.17 to $1. 18*2, and advanced steadily un- til reaching $1.60 to $1.65 in May. This great advance had hardly been looked for, and to those who placed reliance in the crop estimate of 1882 it was a most unsatisfactory realization. The crop of 1882 was estimated at 10.000,000 bu. and turned out to be but 7,500,000 bu. Because it was reported large, many crushers would not buy seed at the prices ruling during the fall and winter. The time came when they must buy to replenish their stocks, and the demand was so much increased that it gave holders a decided ad- vantage, and when it began to look as if stocks would not hold out, prices went up with great rapidity, advancing in May to $1.60 to $1.6."). ' The supply of old seed did finally become about ex- nausted, and in some ca'ses the mills holding out the longest were hardly able to get enough seed to keep their machinery in ope- ration. On the new crop we also find a favor- able market. Futures being discounted, new seed opened a good deal lower than old closed. It opened in August at $ 1. 35 and de- clined to $1.31. So much seed was sold for future delivery that it began to look as if there would be some difficulty in filling con- tracts, because the rainy weather of tbe fall checked the receipta "Shorts" were very nervous in September and the competition for seed was so great that the market was ad- vanced to $1.52. Ample provisions to fill contracts were finally made, however, and the market went back to $1.30 to $1.31. The receipts were not so large during the latter part of the year as the year before, and yet there was an increase in stocks. This does not exhibit well for the consumptive de- mand, but the seed was centered in strong hands, who were interested m fu- ture trading and could easily control the market. In October the market advanced to $1,34 to$1.35. A good deal of seed was taken for shipment during the month in order to have it forwarded before the close of navi- gation. During November the market re- acted to $1.28, but at the close of the year it was back again to $1. 40 to $1. 45. TIMOTHY left on hand at the first of the year met with a good market. The offerings were quite liberal and the home trade only moderate, but an export demand existed which greatly relieved the market. A good many Canadian orders were received and there was a good foreign demand, for England had two short crops, the yield in 1881 and in 1882 being below the average. This outlet for our seed gave the market a very healthy tone, and during the first two months ' of the year prices advanced from $1.55 to $1.60 for prime to $1.90. In March trade hav- ing slacked off, the market receded to $1. 55 to $1.60. The market ruled tolerably steady until after the spring trade was over, when there was a decline. In yiew of the large crop of both seed and hay, dealers regarded the chances for low prices on the new crop as favorable, and while in August the range was $1.45 to $1.55, after new seed came in freely the price was lowered to $1. 25 to $1. 30. This low range exerted a good demand both from the regular trade and for speculation. The offerings were so readily taken that the market in October improved to $1.33 to $1.35. After the fall trade was well over and when navigation closed a weaker feeling again prevailed and the market declined to $1.20 to $1.25, and did not react materially up to the close. At the close of the year we find the receipts small and the market quiet. CLOVEB brought good prices. It was scarce the early part of the year for the crop in 1882 had been a small one. It opened at $6.40 for prime. The demand was all that could be supplied. Consignments coming on the market were wanted, and buyers had to bid up to get the seed. The market advanced steadily and in March as high as $8. 40 to $8.60 was paid with choice sold at $9. Owing to so high a market dealers finally limited their purchases to actual requirements, and when the spring trade fell off the market receded to $7. It sold up again in August to $7.50 to $8, but in September fell off to $4. 80 to $5. This decline was due to an expected large crop. The early frosts, how- ever, did great damage and caused a demand from quarters where it was thought there would be seed to fhip. A good trade fol- lowed with an advance late in the year to $5.75 to $6. and seller March sold at $6.50. TRADE IN HUNGARIAN AND MILLET was very light, ana both descriptions were about the same in price. The market opened at 50c to 65c with stocks light Uunuir the spring the market advanced to 80u and 9Oc. Seed was held steady on account of the rainy weather, bat finally, when good cereal crops were certain, there was a desire to sell, and in July the market declined to 25c and 45c. Late in the year there was little doing. The demand and supply were both light and prices ranged at 40c to 50c, with some ot the first new seed selling at 60a 142 CHICAGO'S FIKST HALF CENTURY. The following table shows the movement of flaxseed during the past two years; 1883, 143,455 105,000 116.000 January February. . . March _ April 120,000 May 47,500 June 54,500 July 37,500 248,500 1882. 366,353 236,423 134,886 99,206 93,322 97,258 234,520 3S0.500 Shipped. 6:'1.5')0 1,138,000 S.13.000 1,079,000 869.000 376,500 581,000 205,000 1883. 103.839 53,000 104,000 322.909 62,278 19.450 92,309 116,739 376,023 581,946 425,384 208,290 1882. 367,204 211,680 151,955 235,596 147,544 141,706 334,116 212,074 807,734 937,613 687,841 144,708 August September. October November. December. Total.... 3,122,955 5.094.968 2,466,167 47379,771 The stock in store is reported at 282,232 bu, against 334,630 bu one month ago, and 455,097 bu one year ago. BUTTEB,. THEBB HAS BEEN A GOOD ACTIVE TRADE during the past year, that IB, taking the market all in alL Of course it has required low prices to move a great deal of the stock, but there has not been that piling up and accumulation of stock that] has heretofore proved so disastrous to the trade; to the con- trary, however, buyers have been on the market pretty much all the time at some price, so that stocks have been moving off very fairly, and bv this means the supply on sale has been kept fresh, more so than in former years. This is required to keep the market in a healthy condition, and it has been demonstrated that the sooner butter is marketed the better it is to sell it, and invariably com- mands a better price, even if held back on an advancing market, as experience has taught that the quality deteriorates to a greater extent than the price of held goods advances in proportion to fresh. The make has been liberal during the year, exceeding by far the make of the year "1882. Accord- ing to statistics furnished the receipts for the year 1883 in the Chicago market were about 11,000,000 Ibs larger than the preceding year. The stock on hand in the Chicago market on Dec. 1 was equal to about 12.000 pkgs of all kinds. In the interior the supply on hand at the close of the year was considered light, as country shippers and manufacturers have followed the plan of marketing their goods while fresh. Pasturage has been good that is, there has been a great abundance of grass, but owing to the unusually wet season, from early in the spring to late in the fall, the milk has scarcely been as rich, therefore the make during a good share of the season lacked body and flavor, and on the whole perhaps did not average in quality as good as the year 1882. While trade has been good, it must be said that the local consumption of butter, especially during the winter season, when butterine is made, is not what it ought to be, bntterine to a very great extent sup- planting the genuine butter. The local re- tailer sells it over his counter because he can make a greater profit and yet sell it cheapo r than creamery or fine da ; rv butter, hence the desire on the part of dea'ers to handle it. The export demand has been much more satisfactory; high-priced goods have not been wanted, but there lias been a large amount of lOc to 15c per lb butter taken, common ta good but all fresh stock, foreign buyers being as much adverse to taking stale anil rancid stock as ever. Some good to choice creamery was also taken at 18c to 20c per fl> , but the specu- lative demand that existed at these same figures interfered with the legitimate export movement, as prices were soon advanced above exports limits through this specula- tion. A very healthy export movement would no doubt have been established at from 18 to 20c, but expert^rs refused to fol- low any advance above these figures, and contented themselves with their home production, or else supplied their wants with oleomargarine and other manufactured goods at home. As it was, the exports have been fully three times as large for the twelve months ending Nov. 31, 1883, as compared with the same period in 1882. The low- priced butter taken for export, say at about lOc per pound, was mostly used for baking purposes, and has been preferred to oleo- margarine or other manufactured goods, as the' latter does not appear to work up as satisfactorily for baking purposes as butter. The butterine business has as- sumed gigantic proportions, and while no figures can be obtained of the amount made it can be said that the manufacture has been greatly in excess of last year; several new firms have started, and the old firms have largely increased their facilities. The butter- ine business will, it is feared, check the mak- ing of dairy butter to a greater or less de- gree every year, and dairymen may find it to their advantage to sell milk to the creamer- ies. And why? Because the low prices at which the dairy butter sells is not remuner- ative enough, and good fair prices for milk will pay them better. Fine butter is always as a rule wanted. Butterine makers must have it. Without high-flavored butter butter- ine cannot be successfully made, and the competition for fancy fresh makes of high-flavored creamery assures the makers good paying prices pretty much the entire year round, from one source or other. Hence every year the creamery system of butter making grows in favor and increases, while the older system is gradually going out Prices ranged at the opening of the year at 36 to 40c for creamery, and 12^ to I3i%c for packing grades. But by the last of January prices declined to 32 to 3 5c for creamery, and advanced in March to 35 to 39c. By the first of April prices for cream- ery declined to 22 to 30c, and during May and June sold within 16 to 20c, and during July and August at 18 to 21c, while packing grades sold at 8 to G^c. In September prices for creamery reacted to 18 to 22c, and from then to the last of November prices advanced to 38 to 42c, declining the last of the year to 30 to 35c. Packing- grades ranged at 9 to lie. The following exhibits the extreme range of prices for the years namr-d, outside prices being for fine creamery, and inside for fresh packing stock or low grades: Opening. Highest. Lowest. Closins. 1881. .1-2 c?)3()c 15 @38c 8*2@19c 1" 1^'J.. 12^380 14 @47c 10 @21c 12 ^j < Inc.- 1883..12 1 s@40c 12J3@42c 8 @20c 9 @35c EGOS. No regular statistics have as yet been com- piled that would give any correct idea of th< 4 movement of so important a branch of the produce trade. The railroads furnish a par- CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF UHJNTUJU. 143 tial report, but no figures are furnished by the express companies, which at certain sea- sons of the year, particularly during the spring 1 months, furnish a large portion of our supplies. Therefore it is impossible to give even approximate figures that would in any way convey a correct idea of the magnitude of the yearly traffic in this commodity. A very satisfactory trade has existed, proving remunerative to farmers and interior ship- pers, prices having averaged higher than during the year 1882. This has been due largely to a good demand from parties who make a business of placing eggs in ice- houses to supply the market during the win- ter months. This, too, helped to keep prices firm, as whenever the market would touch a point sufficiently low in their estimation they would step in and buy, and their pur- chases in more than one instance during the summer checked the decline when the mar- ket appeared the weakest. So much to the advantage of the Chicago market, which has the best of cold-storage facilities. In regard to the supply of cold-storage eggs it can be stated that the supply in the country ice- houses the past year has been smaller than during the year 1882, while the city supply is believed to have been larger. Fresh eggs the first of the year ruled steady and firm at 25c to 31c. About Feb. 14 to the 15th fresh eggs commenced to arrive from St. Louis and Southern points, and the market weakened to 28c, and then off steadily from 24c to 25c, closing at these figures on the last day of February. March 1 the market opened lower, with sales at 20c to 21c, and fluctu- ated down in May from 14i^c to 15c. In June sold up. to 16c"and 16^0, but sold back again to 14c'and 14^0 by the middle of July, which were the lowest prices reached. Then advanced steadily during the balance of the year to 25c and 28c per doz. Ice-house eggs have sold at times close to the price of fresh, and from that 4c to 5o less. The following range of prices show the ex- tremes for four years: 1880. 1881. 1882. 1883. Highest..28@30 50@55 27@29 30@31 Lowest... 8@ 9 10@11 12@12 1 3 14@14J CHEESE. Dealers expressed themselves well satisfied with the cheese trade for the year 1883. The volume of trade has been large and prices have varied widely, ruling much higher for a long period than during the year 1882, and also for a time ruled somewhat lower. Dur- ing the summer receivers and dealers in gen- eral experienced a great deal of trouble with hot- weather made stock, which caused con- siderable dissatisfaction at the time,but other- wise the year's trade has been both profitable and satisfactory. Home consumption has been good, the Southern and Western trade having drawn well upon our supplies, and the export movement was also quite active at times when prices were within the reach of foreign buyers. The exports for the year 1883 from the United States were re- ported at about 110,000,000 pounds, against about 103,000,000 pounds for the year 1882. At the beginning of the year 1883 stocks were light and the mar- ket firm, full cream cheddars selling at 12*2 *o 13c and flats at 7 to 8c per pound. High as these prices were, an almost uninterrupted advance continued to take place during the "rst quarter of the year, and also during a part of April, prices reaching 15 to for prime full cream cheddars and lO 1 ^ to 12c for flats. In April prices eased off a trifle, but still maintained an unusual high range, even surprising the most sanguine bull. This state of affairs was attributed to the fact that all the large home consuming markets were almost bare of cheese, and also to the unusually late season, owing to cold and unseasonable weather. Late in April and early in May the feeling, however, changed to weakness, and by the close of the month prices had de- clined fully 2!2C per pound. Production in- creased materially and consumption fell off. Supplies began to accumulate, and prices continued to decline, finally reaching 9(2) 91*30 per pound in June. Speculators evi- dently thought prices low, and exporters also felt as though these were bottom figures, and for a time a very sharp demand existed at 9c to 9130 and thereabouts. Speculators were the principal buyers, and the movement was so brisk that manufacturers scarcely gave cheese enough time to cure on shelves. The June make and a portion of July was taken at these pricea Operators forget- ting that prices would naturally check consumption, and as production increased, all the central markets were con- tinually crowded with fresh, uncured cheese, and the result was a further decline in prices, almost creating a panic, so much so that exporters and early buyers lost confi- dence in this staple, believing that we would have a repetition of the seasons of 1877 and 1878. The rapid decline in products helped the downward course in cheese. This state of affairs continued until prices reached 7^ to 8c per Ib in August, when consumption and the shipping demand increased'very rapidly, and the hot weather cheese was mostly consumed. Later on prices com- menced to steadily improve, and with alight make in the fall, caused partially by early frost affecting pasturage and the corn crop, the market ruled strong, prices reaching 12i<2 to 13c for full cream. The year closed with light stocks in the hands of dealers and manufacturers, and indications that fall- made goods will be closed out at high prices. The range of prices for full cream cheddars for the year 1882 was 9^ to 13^c the low- est prices being reached in July. HOPS. At the date of our last annual review of the hop market, stocks were light and prices at a point never Def ore reached. High prices were maintained during the winter, but by rigid economy in the manufacture and by drawing more freely than usual on the stocks of malt liquors by dealers, manufacturers managed to get along and the limited supply of hops proved ample, and after March prices rapidly declined to 25c per pound or 4. 50 per ce'nt from the prices of November and December. Profits of the early season were swept away and many disasters occurred among the mere speculative members of the trade. The crop of 1883 was large in quantity but very uneven in quality. This was the con- dition in all the hop producing districts of the world. The result has been a wide range of prices the better grades bearing remunerative prices and the lower being a drug at low pricea The poor quality of the hops in the West and East was attributed to the continued 144 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTUTtY. cloudy and wet weather, there not being enough bright sunny weather to dry out the hops and prevent lice and mold. On the Pacific Coast it seems to have been just the reverse, too dry weather there having lessened the production of good hops. The production of the United States is estimated at 210,000 bales of 180 pounds each; i. e.. Pacific Coast, 43,000; Western States, 8.000; New York, 155,000, and New England States, 4,OOO. Home consumption is estimated at 170,000 bales, leaving for export 40,000 bales, of which 27,000 have been exported, and the remainder will probably be needed by Eng- lish brewers. It is generally conceded by the trade that prices for better grades will be fairly maintained during this crop year. The condition of the trade is healthy. Chi- cago dealers have been conservative, and the volume of business increased with the growth of our Western territory : The following were the figures current at the close of the years 1883 and 1882: 1883. 1882. Fancy New York @28 $....@1.00 Choice New York 25@27 1.0001.05 Prime New York 22@24 90 95 Low grade New York 14^20 ...@ ... Pacific Coast, fair to good. . .22@25 85@1.05 Westerngood 18@22 40@ 70 Western common 12@17 20@ 30 BROOMCORN. The crop of broom corn raised annually is estimated at about 24,000 tons, about 1,000 tons of which is raised in the Mohawk Valley of New York, and the rest is- produced in the West Of this amount it is estimated that nearly two-thirds is handled in the Chicago market The crop harvested in the fall of 1882 was a large one. It was rather a poor one, though, in point of quality, the color of the corn was not good, perhaps better than usual, but there was a shortage of hurl, it running largely to a coarse and curly growth. In view of the heavy yield in 1882 dealers bought rather sparingly and only the best grades. All through the fall and winter a large portion of the crop was shipped in commission lots, and the market at times was glutted, causing prices to depreciate, so that common brush sold all through the early part of the year as low as 2c to 3c per pound. Low prices and a plentiful supply caused an in- creased manufacture, and while dealers sold considerably more than usual in the fall, trade was also large right through the year. There was an exception to the generally low prices of brush, in hurl and fine green self- working stock, which in spite of the large supply of low grades was found to be com- paratively scarce, and advanced from GI^C to ;c per pound, it being needed to work up the coarser grades. Later in the season the ac- cumulation of short coarse and seedy corn wore away under the inroads made upon it by large manufacturers who bought on account of cheaj ness, and September found the old stock pretty well cleaned up and the market was in good condition for the new crop, although a few hundred tons remained in the Illinois Central and Chicago. Burlington and Quincy Railroad districts of Illinois, and this, since the fall trade opened, has been a'l workrci off. Plant- ing in 1883 was smaller than the year before, partially on account of low prices consequent to a poor quality. In Kansas alone there was a falling off of about 40 per cent, according to the State reports. There was also less planting along the lines of the Illinois Central and Burlington Koads. The acreage in Ne- braska was fully up to previous years. Mis- souri is uncertain, but is believed to have grown less than usual As regards trade in new corn, it was good from October until along in November, but late in the year it fell off, and was maiuly on orders. This year's crop was at first supposed to be better, or it might be said very good in quality, but the proportion of hurl is found to be small as compared with the lower grades, a large percentage of the crop be- ing short, stained, and damaged. Prices until recently have ruled favorable, but have declined, although the decline has not affected choice medium and hurl, it being most severe for short and common brush. Considerable of the late brush in Kansas and Nebraska was damaged by the heavy fall rains, and growers would do well to have sheds provided before another crop, that their corn may be cured thoroughly dry, for many growers' in the States named, la'cking these facilities, lost heavily on account of corn be- ing damaged. Stocks at the close of the year are ample. The depression of the market has been caused by large consignment offerings, but it is thought that these offerings will be largely taken up in a short time. The crop has been largely forwarded, for a year ago farmers held their corn and took low prices in the spring, while this year they seem to have been actuated into sending it to market about as soon as ready to ship. HIDES. While prices have not undergone any very serious fluctuations the trade on the whole has not been in a very satisfactory con- dition. Dealers have been compelled to sell on extremely small margins, and, taking into consideration the shrinkage and other disadvantages to contend with, the profits have been small and percentage of gain on the capital invested comparatively trifling. The hide trade the past few years has be- come entirely revolutionized. Years ago commission merchan ts handled the bulk of the hides coming to this market The com- mission man was the first party v the hide dealer the second. But our merchants have lost the greater share of this trade by dealers establishing agen- cies throughout the West and Northwest, so that at one time they controlled the greater part of the hide trade. However, since Chi- cago has become the cattle slaughtering mar- ket of the world, dealers have lost their hold to a certain extent, and where dealers have been able to dictate prices to interior seller.-- on small lots picked up here and there, they are now compelled to a greater degree than before to meet tne views of the city slaught- erers, as the compet tion for large lots neces- sitates their buying on small margins and bidding up full prices. Thousands of cattle which have been slaughtered promiscuously throughout the West now find a market here. and hides which \vouldfindasalethroughtho hands of commission meiciuaits are now lost to them. The numuer of tanneries in operation adjacent to and in this city are re- CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. ported to be about 17. Taking- green salted hides as a basis, sales have ranged from' 8 14.0 at the opening 1 of the year, to 8*2 to 8140 in March, back to 73 4 to 8c in April, then up to 8 l ;>c in June, and back again to 8c in Sep- tember, ruling steady at this price during the balance of the year. Green salted calf-skins have sold at 12 to 13c. The failures which occurred in the leather houses naturally had some effect upon the hide market, and was one of the reasons for the decline during the latter half of the year. POTATOES. A very marked reaction from the extreme high prices current during the year 1882 has followed in the year 1883, and while in the former year prices ruled extremely nigh, they during the year Just closed have ruled exceedingly low. Trade during the first half of the year was good, but during the last half unsatisfactory, an overabundant supply, the crop bein, de- pending on the quality. Halves peaches im- proved from 6c to 7840 for old, but for new the market so far has been quiet and they have receded to about o\c to 6c. Black- berries opened at 7*2C and sold up to Q^c. In anticipation of a good crop they sold down in August to 7c to T^^c, but new ber- ries have not come in freely and they have reacted to 9^ to 9840. They are said to be largely held by speculators in the South. Raspberries sold at 32c to 36c for old and the new opened at about 25c to 26c and im- proved to 27c to 28c. WOOL. BUSINESS GOOD. Business during the past year has been good, but not altogether satisfactory. The clip has been large and the wool cf good quality, but the numerous failures in the clothing trade had an unfavorable effect upon the market for wool, and the trade during the year suffered very perceptibly in conse- quence. As a rule manufacturers have been loth to laying in any large stocks, but have purchased on a conservative plan, and merely bought as their wants required them to. The close margin in the clothing business on which merchants have been compelled to op- erate made manufacturers very cautious in their purchases, and they selected their stock more closely than in former years, being more exacting, and rejected many lots which heretofore would have passed their inspec- tion. In fact, they were compelled to do this in order to subserve their own interests. The reduction in tariff duty, amounting to S 1 ^ per pound on wool, created fears of for- eign importations, and naturally tended to make buyers act with caution. Speculations in wool have also been restricted for the same reasons which actuated manufacturers. Tue quality of Western wool fs said to be good, and is the result of the improvement Western sheep-raisers have made in their nocks by the introduction of new and better grades of stock. A no- ticeable feature in the market was that manufacturers called mostly for unwashed wool As it is necessary for them to scour all wool before using, it is claimed they prefer to take it more in its natural state at the difference in price and clean it according to their own notions. Stocks in the hands of dealers at the close of the year were not large. In January un- washed wool sold within the range of 17 to 28c per pound, and washed within the range of 25 to 37c, but advanced in February, ow- ing to an improved demand, to 18 to 30c per pound for unwashed, and to 25 to 41c for washed. In May, however, owing to a period of dullness, prices declined to 22 to 39c for washed and 16 to 26c for unwashed, which range was later on reduced about 1 to 2c per pound on some grades, and closed dull. The range of prices, which averages considerably lower than last year, is given below, showing the comparison with the year 1882: Washed Unwashed 1883. 1882. 1883. 1882. Jan. 27 to 37 30 to 42 17 to 28 16 to 27 Feb'y. ..25 to 41 30 to 42 18 to 30 16 to 27 March ..25 to 41 30 to 42 18 to 30 16 to 27 April. ..25 to 41 30 to 40 18to3O 16 to 30 May.. ..22 to 39 30 to 40 17 to 26 16 to 30 June . ..22 to 37 29 to 40 16 to 34 16 to 27 July.. ..22 to 37 29 to 49 16 to 24 16 to 27 Augus ..22 to 37 29 to 40 16 to 24 16 to 27 Sept.. ..22 to 37 30 to 40 16 to 26 16 to 27 Oct... ..24 to 37 30 to 40 16 to 26 17to28 Nov 24 to 37 30 to 40 16 to 26 17 to 28 Dec 24 to 37 26 to 38 16 to 26 17 to 28 HAY. There was a larger trade in hay, but the movement cannot be given. The crop this year was heavy, but, owing to the wet weather, the quality ol the timothy was poorer, and of prairie about the same as in 1882. There was more fine upland prairie from Western Iowa and Kansas handled than formerly. The shipping demand was fair, but not so brisk as in 1882. The local con- sumptive demand, however, was good the bulk of the year, and choice grades always found a ready sale, but common, which was offered freely at times, dragged. Prices ranged lower, and in comparison with those of a year ago showed a reduction of $1.50 to 92 per ton on timotny.50c on choice upland prairie, and $1 to $2 on ordinary do. THE MERCANTILE TRADE. A THOROUGH CANVASS among the manufacturing and jobbing estab- lishments of Chicago develops, that while there has been a very fair increase in the .pro- duction and distribution of nearly all lead- ing lines of goods, and the further fact that Chicago has really suffered less in proportion to the aggregate volume of business done than any other large city in the country, the profits, as a rule, have not been com- mensurate with the extent of goods handled, and in most cases the returns have been little more than sufficient to allow CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF 1*7 a moderate interest on the capital invested, wMle in not a few cases it has been difficult to get back a new dollar for an old one. The causes that contributed to the demoralization of trade and curtailment of profits were nu- merous, and some of them far reaching, not the least of which was the partial failure for successive years of THE CROPS in a number of Western States that had pre- viously been the most productive in the Union, the result of which was to reduce the purchasing' power of a large population in the most densely settled portion of the West, from which the heaviest and most profitable business had formerly been derived. The year also opened with large stocks of nearly all lines of goods. But manufacturers had conceived the idea that the consumption would respond to the supply, and without stopping to inquire into the situation drove their establishments to their fullest ca- pacity. It soon became apparent, however, that the consumption was not responding to the early expectations. The falling off in demand stimulated manufacturers and job- bers to greater exertions to free their facto- ries and stores of accumulating stocks, on which a heavy shrinkage in values was in- evitable. The desire to realize grew stronger as the year advanced. The weather, which is always a factor in increasing or curtailing sales as it is favorable or adverse to the con- sumption of goods, was exceedingly detri- mental to the interests of makers and job- bers of most leading articles. The rapidity with which failures increased in nearly alJ parts of the country induced STRICTER CONSERVATISM AMONG BANKERS in granting accommodations to customers, and in many cases compelled really worthy applicants to resort to forced sales of goods as the only means of securing funds with which to meet maturing obliga- tions. The situation of the dry goods trade, which ranks first among the jobbing interests of the country, was also further aggravated by the forced sales at auction of enormous lines of goods, for which Eastern manufact- urers were unable to find buyers in the regu- lar way. Taese sales occurred after Western jobbers had bought large stocks, hence they were compelled to make rates to customers to conform to those of the auction-rooms. Large failures among Eastern cloth and clothing houses also brought their stocks on the market at ruinously low prices, and Chi- cago dealers had to choose between meeting such competition or a loss of customers. It is scarcely necessary to say that they chose the former, feeling that they were sufficiently strong to make the sacrifice ^.vithout jeopardizing their credit. The iron trade suffered from an over-sup- ply, coupled with a heavv decrease in con- sumption by railroads, the construction of which diminished 50 per cent, while the ex- penditures for repairs on lines in operation were greatly reduced. Heavy failures in the trade also threw large stocks on the market at prices far below the cost of production. Other classes of goods suffered from!similar causes, while the lack of confidence induced greater conservatism among[consumers,who, fearing a further depreciation in prices, re- restricted purchases to current wants, and were more than usually persistent in their demands for extreme inside prices. These unfavoring conditions compelled Chicago manufacturers and jobbers to WORK ON THE CLOSEST POSSIBLE MARGINS, and many lines of goods went to consumers at prices which failed to return a remunera- tion above cost. Nor is it surprising that failures have occurred. On the reverse, it is creditable to Chicago merchants that the percentage of suspensions were so small, compared to the volume of business done. Investigation into the affairs of the sus- pended firms has also discovered that their troubles were mainly traceable to causes outside of their legitimate business. The completion during the year of the Northern Pacific Railroad through to the Pacific coast, and the extension of other Southwestern lines into Mexico, has given Chicago direct connection with a large area of country not heretofore accessible to our merchants. That a large and profitable cus- tom will come from there in the near future is beyond question. A large additional trade has also been derived from Manitoba and other Canadian districts of the far Northwest that are rapidly settling up with a valuable population. A material increase is noted in the shipments to South and Central America, South Africa, and Australia, with which Chi- cago is building up a large trade in agricult- ural implements, vehicles, and many lines of machinery. The rapidity with which the new Western and Northwestern States and Territories, for which Chicago is the chief financial and com- mercial center, ARE UNDERGOING DEVELOPMENT, may be inferred from the following table showing the sales of land by the General Government for the years ending June 30, from 1880 to 1883, inclusive: 1883. Acres. 1882. Acres. l.SSl. Acres. 1880. Acres. Dakota Idaho 6,689,585 232,640 808.655 1,292,969 246,458 1,31 5,104 448,836 499,770 111.914 18,709 454,002 410,919 4,355,037 166.948 904,061 l,08o,737 263,165 884,028 103,736 304,139 88,909 58,307 447,268 275,578 253.236 133,908 169,156 843,968 103,073 643,300 88,658 204,734 82,702 46,263 234.867 215,042 2,258,493 120.323 1.516,469 8ft 1,027 109,969 1,324,718 38.360 239,418 97.461 44,247 107,073 186,437 Kansas Minnesota- Montana... Nebraska... New Mexico Oregon.... Utah Wyoming... Wisconsin.. Colorado.... Total 12,508,37l!8,850,482 5,898,818 6.897.005 It will be seen that the increase in 1883 over 1880 was nearly 100 per cent, and that the aggregate for the four years reached 34,155,678 acres. In addition it is estimated thai nearly or quite 20,000,000 acres were sola by railroads and States who had land grants. These lands are being RAPIDLY BROUGHT UNDER CULTIVATION, and their annually increasing production will largely contribute to swell the trade of this market. DRY GOODS. THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT branch of the mercantile trade, and embraces a greater variety of articles than are handled by any other line of businesa Few, if any, other branches of merchandise have under- 148 CHICAGO'S FIBST HALF CENTURY. gone such radical changes within a brief period both as regards the manner in which it is conducted, source of supply, and points of distribution. It is only a few years since the Atlantic cities had control of the entire job- bin? and package trade of the United States. Goods were sold on six, nine, ana twelve months' time, and, as may be inferred, the risks assumed by granting long credos by the Eastern jobbers to customers so widely scattered, and a majority of whom were only accessible by stage coach or horseback jour- neys, was enormous, and to cover such risks enormous profits were charged. The ease with which credit was secured and the in- dulgence given buyers induced tens of thousands to engage in selling goods who were as destitute of knowledge of the busi- ness as they were of capital. They bought on credit and sold on the same terms. Their customers, as a rule, were poor, and a ma- jority destitute of ideas of business prompt- ness. To them payment was a matter of sec- ondary consideration. As a result of this loose system, ONLY THE MOST JUDICIOUS and sharpest traders succeeded. The develop- ment of the country which followed the ad- vent of an extended railroad system in every direction caused a rapid westward movement of the center of population and agricultural production, while the increased means of transportation gave farmers a quick means of marketing their products, and made them larger and at the same time more independ- ent buyers. The advantages ot bringing dealers and consumers more closely together caused a transfer of the jobbing trade from the Atlantic cities to the West Instead of making a journey of weeks' duration by the most tedious means of conveyance to the Eastern cities, as was the custom previous to the advent of the railroad system in the West, and selecting a six or twelve months' stock, the retailer in the Central. Western, and Southern States now steps aboard the cars, and in a few hours finds himself in Chicago or some smaller tributary poinc, where he buys such goods as are re- quired for the present or near future, and takes his departure for home. This system of buying has lessened the risks of accumulating goods that fail to find buy- ers, and decreased the losses incurred by granting long credits. The consumption of goods has grown with the wealth and popu- lation of the country, and as it is an immuta- ble law of trade that people will buy what they require where they find the best market for their surplus products, and as the geo- graphical position, no less than the natural and artificial means of transportation, have given Chicago the cheaper and more direct means of communicating with all parts of the North American continent, it has neces- sarily BECOME THE LEADING MARKET In the world for the sale of farm products and the chief distributing point for dry goods to every part of the country west of the Alle- ghaniea Another and equally marked change as in the manner of selling and center of dis- tribution, has been the character of goods handled. Instead of relying almost entirely on foreign markets for nearly all of the best grades of cotton and worsted dress fabrics, as was the case a quarter of a century since, the bulk of such goods now sold are from American looms. To such perfection have American makes of cotton, woolen, and worsted dress fabrics suc- ceeded that they have almost superseded those of foreign production. This is espe- cially the case in regard to cotton and worsted goods. Like success is also attending the manufacture of cloths and cassirneres, while domestic blankets and carpets have driven their foreign competi- tors from our markets. American ribbons and threads are now the standard goods at home, and their high quality is bringing them rapidly into favor in countries which have heretofore been sup- plied exclusively by European manufac- tories. New Zealand "and Australia are large buyers of such goods in this country. Amer- ican silk dress goods are also steadily grow- ing in favor with those who prefer a service- able articie, but the limited extent of their production has thus far prevented them from coming largely into use. There are, how- ever, many lines of goods, and especially plushes and velvets, that are still chiefly im- ported. Yet the rapid strides made in the direction of SUFEBIOBITY OP CUE HOME MANUFACTUBES during the past quarter of a century, war- rants the conclusion that the end of another decade will see the importion of foreign goods, which is now estimated by intelligent merchants at one-fifth of the entire consump- tion in this country, reduced to one-tenth. There is, in fact, no good reason why our manufacturers who have all the advantages in the shape of raw materials should not en- tirely supply the demand on this side of the Atlantic for cotton, woolen, and worsted goods of every description. The year's business has been conducted un- der many adverse conditions; the winter was unusually severe and protracted, hence the spring trade was late in opening. The un- favorable character of the weather through- out almost the entire spring and summer checked the consumption of light fabrics suited to the ordina'ry season's trade. In order to reduce stocks of such lines jobbers often found it necessary to force sales at the expense of profits. The bad condition of trade in sections from which Eastern jobbers derive their largest share of custom, also induced them to make a strong invasion of territory from which they had previously been driven by Chicago jobbers, and the close competition thus created be- tween Western and Eastern jobbers resulted in reducing prices to figures that in numer- ous instances failed to cover the original cost and expense of handling. In this connection it may be well to remark that while Chicago merchants recognize the unwise course of selling goods at figures that fail to yield re- munerative profits, it is FUTILE FOR NEW YORK OB OTHEB JOBBERS to suppose that they can ever hope to regain control of the trade in territory which has once been successfully canvassed by dealers in this city, and every effort to do so, while it may for the time that the contest for su- premacy lasts, lessen and even destroy the profits of our jobbers, the loss will be still more severe to those who attempt to com- pete with them, and the sooner that Eastern dealers realize that the control of the dry goods trade west of the Alleghany Mountains nas forever passed from the better for their own interest, as it is impossible to divert trade from its natural channels so long as those who are in a position to control it show the spirit of enterprise and liberalty that characterize Chicago merchants. The heavy stocks of goods in manuf actur CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 149 era' hands, as well as in jobbers' warehouses, and the continued large production by tiie former during- the first halt' of the year, added largely to the other misfortunes that beset the trade-, makers found stocks accu- mulating 1 , and their pressure to realize caused an almost steady shrinkage in values during the first eight months "of the year. The only leading articles that did not suffer severely were prints, on which a decline of about ~> per cent is reported. The steadiness in these goods may be attributed to the fact that the almost unprecedented low prices at which they opened at the beginning of the year rendered a further large reduction in quotations an impossibility. COTTON DKESS GOODS, although possessing unusual merit in styles, finish, and fabrics, were in excessive supply, and were unmercifully slaughtered by manu- facturers, who forced sales through" auction houses regardless of prices, and thereby compelled jobbers who were carrying- stocks to make corresponding 1 reductions. The average decline on such goods is placed by experts at 20 per cent under the ruling prices in 1882, although the latter were deemed very low. Worsted dress fabrics have attracted a large share of favor, and as stocks were more nearly adjusted to the demand prices were well maintained for all staples of popular style and quality, the only lines that suffered be'ing those that were undesirable, and as the production of such ffoods was not large the losses from depreciation in values was moderate. The demand lor cashmeres and similar makes of goods was about up to the demand, and prices remained steady. The same may be said of mohairs and .alpacas, which have sold fairly at about last year's figures. Flannel dress goods have met a large sale, having to a great extent super- seded the more common and medium grades of worsted and woolen fabrics. Such, in fact, was the call for many popular makes that the supply fell below the demand for consumption, and the year's trade was highly satisfactory to the jobber, and current stocks are lower than usual. Colored cottons, stripes, and ticks have been in large demand, but not equal to the supply, and in their anxiety to sell makers held repeated sales at auction, which had a demoralizing influence on values and the trade generally. The ruling prices up to July showed a decline of f uliy 10 per cent below those of 1882. Since then the market has been comparatively steady, and as they are lower than the cost of production, and the make has been curtailed, no further shrinkage in values is anticipated. Both "brown and bleached sheetings and shirtings were largely distributed, but with heavy stocks constantly in sight, jobbers made a special effort to attract custom with them by offering "drives," and sales through- out the" year were not only at lower figures than during the one immediately preceding, but below the cost of production, and such is still the case, although the output of the mills has been materially reduced. A FEATURE IN THE TRADE in unbleached goods has been the large in- crease in the volume of Southern-made goods. The large production of underwear, and consequent pressure by manufacturers to realize, kept the trade in a most unsatisfact- ory condition throughout the year, and prices were lower and irregular. The consumption, however, was large in consequence. Hoseries were active, and off grades irregu- lar, while standard goods were fairly steady throughout, and prices showed little altera- tion from 1882. The trade in white goods was comparatively quiet, and prices averaged about the same as during the three vears immediately preced- ing. Perhaps no other line of goods suffered so severely as woolens for men's wear. Manu- facturers seemed to become utterly reckless to consequences, and instead of acquainting themselves as to the probable amount of gaods required, and shaping, as they might have done, the supply to the demaad, they went heedlessly to work to see how many goods they could turn out;, ana when they found they had accumulated enormous stock for which there were no buyers at remunerative prices they sought relief at the auction rooms where they forced sales with as little regard to cost as they had previously shown in their efforts to produce without ascertaining how many were likely to be wanted. The constant pressure to realize by makers necessarily kept the market in a demoralized condition," and jobbers as well as manu- facturers, were compelled to face losses on every hand. No matter how cheap the goods appeared when purchased they were generally dear ere they reached the store of the buyer. The severe shrinkage in values naturally caused many heavy failures in the trade ; and the situation was further greatly aggravated by the forced sales of the stocks of such firms. The mild character of . the weather during the closing quarter of the year likewise assisted to lessen con- sumption, and the year closes with the market in a most unsatisfactory condition, and the only means of restoring 1 it to a healthy condition is by equalizing production to consumption. FOREIGN GOODS. The importation of foreign goods of nearly all classes lias been closely gauged to the consumption, and prices have shown few changes". The small percentage of cotton dress fabrics imported have found a quick sale at remunerative price.", and the same may be said of worsted goods, although they are being steadily displaced by similar lines of American manufacture. Woolen dress goods have met a fairly satisfactory sale at well supported and remunerative quota- tions. The importations of silks were on a liberal scale, the market throughout the year being glutted with low and medium qualities, which were forced on buyers at figures that entailed a loss on manufacturers, importers, and jobbers. The higher grades, although in ample supply, have met a very satisfactory demand, and remunerative profits were Linens met an unusually active sale, and ' although the importations were very large, the trade was seldom more satis- factory to jobbers, who sav no other lines of goods were handled with such grati- fying results as linens of every description, and the year closes with well-adjusted stocks. CABPETS. Although these goods are handled by a numl.er of large firms who make them a specialty, they are also sold by all the regu- lar jobbing houses. All classes of dealers in such goods report very large sales, but un- 150 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. satisfactory results, due to the heavy shrink- age in values which may be said to have commenced with and continued throughout the year. The closing- prices compared with the opening: in January record a decline ranerinar from 10 to 15 per cent, as to make and quality. AVERAGE PBICES. The following shows the average price for the articles named in 1864, and from 1872 to 1883. inclusive: MILLINERY AND FANCY GOODS. AMERICAN-MADE GOODS MORE POPULAR. New York, being the largest importing city in America, is necessarily the leading market for the sale of all classes of foreign goods in importers' packages, and especially of millinery and milliners' stock. Chicago, however, can justly claim precedence as the leading jobbing market on the continent for the same line of goods, and, in the size and elegance of the stores devoted to the dis- tribution of such articles, it is without a peer in this country or Europe, and each year witnesses an addition TO their proportions and splendor, as well as the volume of their ales, and an increase in the quality of the goods handled, the latter clearly indicating an advancement in the wealth and taste of tne large and rapidly augmenting 'population for which this city is the trade center. Each succeeding season also witnesses an expansion of the territory that recog- nizes this as its most advantageous market in which to buy such gooda This is alike attributable to the rapid settlement of the country heretofore accessible to Chi- cago; the expanding railroad system which is yearly enlarging the facilities for reaching sections heretofore shut off from this mar- ket, and the inducements that our dealers are enabled to offer their customers in the way of new styles and attractive goods at the lowest prices and most favorable terms, the former being due to the assiduity with which they study the wants and the tastes of their customers, and the latter to their large capi- tal, which enables them to buy at the lowest prices, and their excellent manufacturing facilities, by which they are enabled to con- vert raw materials into shapes best suited to the wants of customers in different sections, the styles and qualities of goods that are pop- ular in one part of the country being un- suited to any other. The ascertainment of the wants of different localities and how to supply them most cheaply is an important factor in controlling the trade of a widely- extended country. It is. in fact, next in importance to the ability to sell goods at the lowest prices, and has in connection with the latter enabled Chicago jobbers to outstrip those of any other city in the country, and made this the center of the jobbing trade of this conti- nent for millinery gooda The extent to which the manufacture of such goods is car- ried on here may be inferred from the state- ment that about 2,000 hands are employed by the wholesale houses, and the industry is steadily on the increase. THE WOKST SEASON FOB YEARS. There have, of course, been periods when the trade suffered severely from the same natural causes that influenced other lines of business, and as a majority of the articles sold by the millinery trade are to a great ex- tent classable as luxuries, whose con- sumption is increased or diminished in pro- portion to the purchasing- ability of consum- ers, it is one ot the first lines of business to suffer from a decline in the country's prosperity, while an increased sale is regarded as unquestionable evidence of an improved condition of its leading interests. The weather also exerts a more marked influence on the millinery trade than almost any other line of goods, and seldom has its influence been more severely felt than during a considerable portion of the current year. Jobbers, with scarcely an ex- ception, pronounced the past spring as the worst season they have had for years. Said the manager of a leading concern, ''Last spring was the first one in more than a de- cade when the aggregate balance of our sales failed to show an increase on those of the preceding season." This, nowever, was partly due to the very low prices for goods, which necessitated " the handling of a larger bulk to bring the aggregate value up to the preceding spring. But.~ as already stated, the most serious drawback to trade was the cool and unseasonable weather that prevented customers from buying goods which they were unable to utilize. The caprice of fashion is also a most powerful factor in the trade, and during the current year its influences were adverse to pronts. As an example, last year there was an enormous demand for felt hats at an average of about $36 per dozen, whereas the present year the rage for hats or bonnets of the same material as the dress worn called out a de- mand for hat frames which were sold at $1@ 1. 50 per dozen. In many other classes of goods the changes were decidedly unfavor- able to profits, as very little is' made on cheap goods. But while tne aggregate value of goods distributed has not shown the increase expected, and the pronts have fallen below anticipations, there has been a wider distri- bution of goods by the extension of the trade in new territory. ' The natural growth of the country by settlement and ordinary increase of population has also contributed to enlarge the consumption of such goods, and the year's footings will show that there has been an actual gain in the amount of sales, and that jobbers have not, as in some other lines of trade, worked without a moderate degree of compensation. GROWTH OF THE TRADE. A marked feature in connection with the trade, and one that has almost kept pace with the expansion in the business, is the steady increase in percentage of the sale of American-made goods, and a decadence of the consumption of foreijrn production. This is especially the case in regard to trim- mings, liiiines, and ornaments, which con- stitute a liberal percentage of the goods strictly classable under the head of milliners' goods, and which a few years since were almost exclusively of foreign production. In referring to the growth of the trade in Chicago, which, as already stated, is the largest jobbing market in the country for the sale of such goods, it may not be out of place to state that the first strictly wholesale house here, and we believe in the West, for the exclusive sale of millinery was opened in March, 1853, or a little over thirty years ago. Then Chicago was virtually unknown as a jobbing market for any class of goods. The sales during the first six momths were CHICAGO' FIRST HALF CENTURY. 151 only $9,000. At the close of the fall season the proprietor of the establishment, deeming it useless to keep his store open through the winter, packed the remainder of his goods in a single case and stored them while he visited the East to purchase a stock for the follow- ing: spring, which was much larger and ag- gregated $40,000. At present the gentle- man, whom many regarded as almost insane for making a business venture that appar- ently presented few chances of success, is at the head of an establishment occupying a building 144x150, six stories high, and which for the completeness of its appoint- ments, extent and costliness of its stock, has no superior in the world,and the annual sales of millinery, which were represented by $9,000 in 1853, have reached $8,000,000 the current year. The latter figures, how- ever, merely represent the sales by houses directly in the trade. Large amounts of such goods are also handled by houses selling notions and other lines of goods; hence a correct estimate of sales is impossible. CLOTHING. MANUFACTURE AND SALE. The manufacture and sale of men's and boys' clothing has for years been a leading interest in Chicago, and each succeeding twelve months witnesses an expansion in both branches commensurate with the wealth and population of the widely ex- tended territory for which the city has for years been the recognized trade center, and the steadily extending railroad system in all directions is annually bringing many new customers from distant sections that were previously deprived of the advantages of this market by a lack of communication. The chief acquisition during the year just closing has been Oregon, Washington Ter- ritory, and Idaho on the Northwest, and the Republic of Mexico in the Southwest The extent of the business may be inferred from the fact that $9,000,000 is employed in the manufacturing and jobbing departments. In addition many of the leading houses have large sums invested in woolen mills where the cloths and other materials used in man- ufacturing clothing are woven. By making their own goods manufacturers are often en- abled to secure better material adapted to special lines of goods than can at all times be found in the hands of package dealers. The laree capital by which the leading houses are backed also gives them superior advantages for buying in the lowest markets. This fact, in connection with a well-directed enterprise, has given Chicago its present prestige as the leading clothing market in the United States. Like all other branches of business, the clothing interest has felt the influence of previous over-production, and the distrust that followed "the boom" which commenced in 1879 and collapsed in 1881. It has, how- ever, suffered less severely than many other lines of business; profits" were also consid- erably lessened by a reckless competition which they were compelled to meet from jobbers in other cities, who early in the year laid in large stocks, which they ultimately found it necessary to work off. regardless of cost. In order to do so they invaded Chicago territory, and as a result its jobbers were not- disposed to stand calmly by and see their trade wrested from them, but promptly met the issue. It is scarcely necessary to say that, although many goods sold were with- out profit, the contest was not altogether without compensating advantages, as those who attempted to secure the trade learned that while it was possible to sell goods in the territory occupied by Chicago dealers, it was scarcely possible to do so without loss, hence they will be less inclined to again repeat the experiment In fact, many of them have found it necessary to retire altogether. The unfavorable character of the weather during the greater portion of the spring and summer also operated adversely to the sale of many lines of light and medium goods adapted to these seasons. But the very liberal fall trade which was largely due to new customers from the sections of country previously referred to has partly made up for the adverse conditions already stated, and it is generally conceded that the year's sales will show an" excess in volume and value over the previous one. Nearly all classes of stock have also been worked down much closer than during either of the two preceding yeara The same condition is also reported by in- terior I'etailers, and as prices for all descrip- tions of raw materials are down to figures where any further depreciation is unlikely, if at all possible, the out- look for the incoming year is much better than at the advent of the one just closing. The prospect is further improved by the fact that the liquidation that has been going on for the past two years has driven many reckless and weak establishments in other cities from the trade and rendered the solvent ones more prudent There are also reasons for believing that consumers as a class are in a better position to buy and pay for what they want, as there is evidently more property in the country to sell The weeding-out process that has been going on among the retail trade for the past two years has left that branch of the business in more competent hands, and although profits are likely to be small, they will be more certain. This latter conclusion is warranted by the fact that the arrangements for the goods for the spring trade were long since made, and much of the stock is already finished at a cost that, while it renders a decline in valua- tion almost an impossibility, will induce a free consumption at prices that afford a fair compensation to the jobber and retailer, the loss having- already been borne by the manu- facturers of the cloths, who in their anxiety to keep their machinery running over- stocked the markets with goods which they were in the end compelled to force on buyers at such prices as the latter were disposed to pay. ^ GENTLEMEN'S FURNISHING GOODS. A GROWING TRADE. This branch of the jobbing trade is becoming more prominent with the growth of the city and country for which it is the chief market. When the business was in its infancy all the goods sold either by the special houses or the other branches of trade were made at the East, but each succeeding year witnesses a decline in the sale of Eastern made articles and an increase in home products. All the houses whose sales are strictly con- fined to furnishing goods conduct large fac- 152 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. tories, where nearly every article in their line, except knit underwear, some styles of g-loves and hoseries, and handkerchiefs are made. These factories employ several thou- sand operatives, mainly ladies and young girla In addition to their own direct cus- tomers in the jobbing and retail business, they also supply nearly all the furnishing goo'ds sold by the wholesale dry goods and clothing houses in Chicago and the West. Large consignments are also sent to the Eastern and Canadian cities. Manitoba is becoming an important customer, and within the past twelve months a fair number of orders were sent to Mexico and Central America, and advices from those countries justify predictions of a large increase in sales in that direction the coming year. Jobbers say that owing to the strong com- petition from Eastern houses wno were overstocked with hoseries and knit underwear which they were compelled to work off, in addition to the low prices made by Chicago houses in other branches of trade, who, as already stated, handle such goods as collateral lines and who were in- clined to supply tlieir customers with all ar- ticles called for, the year's business, al- though showing a liberal increase in volume, has not been as remunerative as desired, yet there is no complaint of losses. The other branches of the trade, including all articles manufactured here, show a very liberal increase in sales and the business has also been fairly satisfactory, and the year closes with less than the customary stock to be carried over. Prices are also down where further losses from shrinkage will of neces- sity be very small and the general situation healthy. Retailers' stocks in most parts of the country are also low, which encourages dealers to look for a fairly active spring de- mand. HATS, CAPS, AND BUCK QOODS. NOT SATISFACTORY. This branch of the jobbing trade has suffered to a considerable extent from the same unfavorable causes that effected nearly all leading lines of business. The slackness of demand as compared -with stocks also rendered dealers anxious to sell, and houses which held more goods than they were able to carry with ease have shown a disposition to force them off. In order to do this they too frequently made sales at the expense of profits. Dealers in the same line of goods in other cities also made strong efforts to secure custom from Chicago terri- tory, and in many instances offered goods at less than cost. As a consequence the most conservative and strongest houses in the city had to choose between losing a con- siderable portion of their trade or meet such competition regardless of present remun- eration. It is scarcely necessary to say that they were not inclined to part with their trade, knowing as they did that the abuses practiced by weak and reckless houses would in time bring their own cure. But in spite of the many adverse conditions against which jobbers had to contend, they have, by canvassing new territory, been enabled to maintain their previous average volume of business, and, by buying close and being in a position to discount a large percentage of their purchases, conservative houses have at least made a fair interest on their capital The anxiety to sell, as above stated, has also brought some compensation to those who were sufficiently strong to stana the ordeal, as the liquidating process has reduced stocks to a minimum, and the new year will open with more favorable auspices to prudent houses. There is also encouragement in the fact that the retail traders are meeting their bills with more than ordinary punctuality, and many of them are availing themselves of the discounts allowed t > cash buyers. The number of houses in the jobbing business is the same as at the opening of the year, the retirement of the firm that failed being re- placed by a new one. During the year there was a very considerable increase in the manufacture of buck goods, which is becom- ing an important feature of industry, a large percentage of the skins walked up being dressed or tanned here. BOOTS AND SHOES. GBATIFTING RESULTS. A canvass among manufacturers and job- bers of boots and shoes discovers that, while the business both from the general mercantile depression that affected all lead- ing interests and failures in the leather trade, which, for a time at least, rendered buyors of manufactured goods exceedingly cautious in their purchases, the year's business shows fairly gratifying results as regards the volume of goods turned out All the leading manufacturers report an enlargement in the output of their establishments. The increase in the variety of goods made has also been more marked than in the quantity. In the earlier days of the industry Chicago manu- facturers mainly confined their products to heavy work, and nearly all the better and finer classes of boots and shoes sold here came from Eastern factories, where the class of skilled labor adapted to their production was in better supply than in the West. The past five years, however, have brought great changes in the quality of the goods made, and in no preceding year has the ad- vance in hign-grade work been so marked as during the one just closing. Not only were the factories in which they were a specialty materially enlarged, but new ones have been built, and at present Chicago contains some of the largest and best-appointed establish- ments of this kind in the country. The ctiief factors which have given, and must continue to give, this city an advantage over all otners for the production and sale of boots and shoes are the low cost at which goods can be made and distributed. Being the largest tan- ning point on the continent, the leather can be delivered to the factories without charge for freight, and the goods shipped direct to all parts of the country. These charges, which alone constitute a fair profit, must be borne by manufacturers and job- bers in other cities. Hence it is evident that they are at a great disadvantage when brought in competition with Chicago makers and dealers. Nor is it necessary to look furthur to find the causes which have transferred the jobbing business in such goods from the East to this city, and in a little over a score of years from the date of the opening of the first factory, have made it one of the leading manufacturing centers on the conti- nent for such goods. But rapid as nas been the increase of production within the brief CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 153 period mentioned, it has not been sufficient to keep pace with the expansion of the dis- tributing trade, and Chicago jobbers are still the largest buyers at the New England factories. The leading houses report the year closing with only moderate stocks on hand; the volume of unreasonable goods to be carried over is small, and likely as all the stock now in their warehouses and factories was produced at such very low cose that a further depreci- ation is scarcely possible, the prospects for the incoming year are fairly encouraging. Dealers are not likely to suffer further losses from a shrinkage in 'prices of materials. The heavy failures that occurred in other sec- tions of the country during the past year have aaso freed those who desire to do a 'safe and remunerative business from the compe- tition of reckless firms who buy without judgment, and ara in time compelled to force goods on customers without reference to profits. The prospective improvement in the leather trade will likewise prove benefi- cial to those who handle manu- factured goods; and although nothing more than a fair average business is pre- dicted, there is a fairly confident feeling that the dawn of a more prosperous period is not distant The sales of rubber goods, which constitute a collateral branch of the shoe trade, show a slight increase in the volume compared with 1882, the sales of some establishments show- ing a gain of 20 per cent, while with ot .ers it was very small The profits, as in other lines of trade, were also close, as the com- petition between Eastern and Chicago houses was very sharp. On the whole, however, the year's business was not unsatisfactory. LEATHER. NOT A SATISFACTORY SHOWING. Although Chicago tanners and leather dealers have suffered less than those of any other leading market in the country, *he re- sult of the year's business has been far from satisfactory. Jobbers say their patrons, who are mainly makers of custom goods, are be- ing driven out of trade bv the enlarged pro- uction and betterment of quality of factory made boots, shoes, and other articles of leather goods, in the construction of which machinery is largely used, and which are sold much cheaper than they can be produced in the small shops by hand. Hence the job- bing trade in leather is steadily on the de cline, and profits suffer a diminution. The current year's business of tanners and dress- ers has also been severely affected by heavy failures in the leather trade in nearly every large city in the country outside of Chicago. The forcing of liquidation by such firms* caused a shrinkage in values of stock on hand, and rendered it difficult for those who were not sufficiently strong financially to take every advantage of the market and buy raw materials at tlie lowest cash prices to make even a fair rate of inter- est Tne unhealthy situation has also been aggravated by an increase in the cost of do- ing business, as it has required greater exer- tions to sell an equal amount of goods with previous years. The fact, however, that no failures of consequence have occurred among our leading establishments justifies the state- ment that although the year's business has not been as profitable as desired, it has been conducted on sound and conservative princi- ples, and as the now year will open with moderate stocks and prices down where no further decline oi: any consequence is scarcelv possible, the outlook for the near future is not without features of encouragement. CHICAGO'S ADVANTAGES. In the previous year's review of the tan- ning interest, THE INTER OCEAN took occasion to refer to the advantages which Chicago possessed for concentrating the hides, bark, and all other articles or' raw materiarwhich enter as factors into the pro- duction of leather at lower cost than they could be brought together at any other point mthiscountry,andin addition to its being the center of a large manufacturing and jobbing interest, gave its tanners facilities for con- ducting their business that were not enjoyed by those in the same line in other parts of the country The statement then made has been strongly sustained by the fact that nob- withstanding the leather trade has passed through one of the most trying periods in its history very few failures "have occured here, and they were of little consequence, whereas many of the largest and heretofore strongest houses at other points have been unable to stem tne adverse tide with which the tanning and jobbing interest has had to contend from the' opening to the close of the year. In addition to the superiority of location a majority of Chicago "tan- ners have been brousrht up to '. the business and know all its details, from select ing the raw hides and tanning materials ot finishing the leather and keeping their cheek books. They are also equally notjd for their extreme conservatism. These qualifications have enabled them to keep their affairs in good shape, while those who were less favorably located or not so well drilled in the details of the business were driven to the wall. SOME ENORMOUS FIGURES. The extent of the business conducted here may be inferred from the fact that there are four large sole and nine upper leather tan- neries here, with an aggregate annual pro- duction of 6,000,000 pounds of sole and 3,500,000 upper leather. In addition, 675,- 000 calf skins are tanned, about 225,000 of which are imported from France, Germany. Belgium and Holland. There are also a num- ber of smaller tanneries, where considerable quantities of various grades of sole and othei leather are made. The tanning of sheep, deer and other skins is also conducted on a very extensive sale and the product converted into goods. Chicago capital is likewise largely interested in tanneries in Wisconsin, Michigan, and In- diana. As a large amount of the supplies for such establishments are bought in Chicago and their products sold here, they virtually constitute a portion of this city's leather in- dustry. In point of quality Chicago leather ranks "A No. 1." This is especially the case with sole, which is almost exclusively made from hides of Texas steers, which make a firmer and in every respect finer and more durable leather than any other m the world. They also cut to excellect advantage. The mos't popular hides for harness leather are from domestic steers ; the large number of those animals slaughtered here gives tan- ners their choice, and they have equal ad- vantages in securing the best selections of cow and heifer hides from which the best up- 154 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. per leather used for boots and shoes is made. Chicago calf skins, like its sole leather, have a reputation second to none, being finer, more plump and uniform, and they cut to better advantage than the famous French calf. But, as there is still a certain class of customers who think there is nothing so good as a foreign article, such people must neces- sarily have French goods, or at least what they'suppose comes from France. Such was formerly the opinion with regard to South American hides for sole leather, until, after years of hard work, tanners succeeded in convincing the most prejudiced that Texas steers furnished a better material for the purpose. The principal agent employed by Chicago tanners is hemlock bark, oak and other materials being used to a moderate ex- tent by some establishments who turn out special lines of goods. Formerly a large amount of the upper and harness leather tanned here was sent East to be finished and again brought West for sale, but at present the leather is both tanned and finished here, and the cost of transportation to the East and back is saved to the consumer; the finishing also largely contributes to Chicago's industrial interests. RESULTS OF THE DEPRESSION. The general depression in the trade, as noted above, materially affected the sales of tanners, who estimate a reduction of 15 per cent in the amount of their year's transac- tions, about 7*2 per cent of which was due to a depreciation in the price of goods, some lines being 5 per cent and others full 10 per cent below the average in 1882. The un- favorable outlook during the early part of the year induced great conservatism among a majority of Ciiicago tanners, and as raw hides were relatively higher than leather there was a strong tendency to reduce the amount of hides put down, wMcn resulted in a reduction of 15 per cent in the volume of stock produced. The chief decline in pro- duct was in finished uppers. At present tanners are working 1 with more than ordinary caution ; current stocks are full 15 per cent less tlian at this date last year. It is con- ceded by those best informed that the out- put of the tanneries for the next six months will be much less than during the first half of 1883. The production at other leading points also promises to be correspondingly light, while the consumption promises to be- as good or better than for the year just closed. Hence there are substantial reasons for predicting a fairly active and more re- munerative business during the incoming year. The situation is also improved by the fact that the disastrous condition of the leather trade during the past twelve months has weeded out a majoritv af the imprudent concerns, and left the trade in stronger and competent hands, who will not sacrifice profits merely for the sake of swelling the volume of their transactiona HARNESS. HARNESS AND SADDLERY HARDWARE, ETC. The harness business during the past year was pushed from the opening to the close, and sales were consequently heavier than in previous years. Jobbers and manufacturers carried larger and better stocks than form- erly, as the call was chiefly for the best makes, but as they handled everything from the common $10 harness to the iancy $500 of American and foreign manufacture, they were able to suit all classes of buyers. Prices ranged about the same as in the previous year for standard makes, but common lower. Saddles met a larger demand than formerlv, but no special change could be noted in prices. All other articles, such as whips, boots, pads, etc., met a good sale, but no particular alteration was made in values. In harness and saddlery hardware a liberal trade was enjoyed, but jobbers were more conservative, and felt satisfied with the ex- tent of territory already covered, and pre- ferred to keep that well in hand than to have their business scattered over a large space of country that could not be controlled as easily. Therefore they employed fewer traveling men, and sales fell about 2^ -to 5 per cent under those of 1882. Good stocks were carried. Prices were steadier, and ranged a trifle higher. Profits were fair and business more satisfactory, as goods did not have to be sold on a weak and declining market as in 1882. GROCERIES. CABEFUL BUYING AND CLOSE BELLING. This branch of trade has shown very few features of special interest throughout the year. Dealers in the interior were exceed- ingly conservative in buying, 'and never be- fore in the history of the trade were goods ordered so directly in reference to immediate necessities as during the twelve months just drawing to a close. Among Chicago jobbers the disposition to move cautiously and carry stocks "in conformity with current sales was equally marked. This caution was no less the outgrowth of the reserve exhibited by retailers than the recollections of the very unsatisfactory reeult of the previous year's business and the frequency with which large failures were reported in other lines of busi- ness. Despite, however, of the conservatism shown by both jobbers and retailers, the sales are estimated to exceed those of the year immediately preceding. The gain, however, was not the result of an increased consumption, per capita of population, but to a larger influx of emigration into the ter- ritory which draws the bulk of its supplies from here, and a material enlargement of the previous area. The extension of the railroad system has attracted buyers here that were previously debarred by an ab- sence of transportation facilities. The profits, however, have not been commen- surate to the volume of goods distributed. This was partly attributable to the close competition among dealers, many of whom were anxious to secure custom, but more largely to the steady shrinkag'e in values of nearly afi lines of goods. This was especially severe on houses of moderate means, and it is generally conceded that the only concerns that have made money were those whose who, owing to their capital, were in a posi- tion to discount their bills, as the rebate thus secured not unfrequently exceeded the mar- gin between the prices at which the goods were bought and sold. The adverse condi- tions which the jobbing trade was compelled to contend with may be inferred from the fact that the average decline on all articles, except coffee, which was dearer, is estimated at 12 to 15 per cent. But while the latter article shows a higher range than during 1882, the result of the year's sales was unsatisfactory ; as the CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 156 advance was due to the manipulations of speculators at the East, who attempted to "corner" the market and force quotations to a high point in the face of large stocks. As is the general rule when values are con- trolled by such influences, prices were very irregular, and jobbers being unwilling- to carry large stocks while prices were contin- gent on the whims of speculators, whose op- erations had no other basis than their finan- cial strength, they failed to derive any bene- fit from the frequent up movement in quota- tions. The consumption of sugar has been large, but prices lower, and goods have been handled at very small profit. The glucose trade in both sugars and sirups has been most disastrous to all who handled them. Large quantities of the latter soured in hands of jobbers and retailers, and were returned to the manufacturers. The dissatisfaction tnus created is likely to result in a refusal of many dealers to handle it on any terms in the fu- ture. The rapid increase in the production of sorghum sirups, as well as the improve- ment in their quality, is causing them to be more generally introduced to the grocery trade than ever be- fore. Considerable advancement haa also been made in sorghum sugars, and there are reasons to hope that they will soon become an important factor in the su^ar supply of the country, and many well-in- formed grocers venture the prediction that these goods will soon driv th fraudulent glucose from the market The trade in teas has been large both in volume and value, and although they, like other leading lines of goods, were sold at small margins, the busi- ness has been more satisfactory. This was mainly due to the greater steadiness in prices and the conservatism of dealers, who, instead of carrying large stocks, as was the case in former years, bought more closely on the principle of supplying current wants. The establishment by the government of a system of tea inspection did much toward restoring and maintaining a healthy trade, as it checked the importation of low and worthless teas that were previously sold by unprincipled dealers in competition with those who handled genuine goods. The importation of teas direct from the source of production is steadily increasing with the other business of the city the current year's, imports being estimated at 10,000.000 pounds, or 150,000 packages, being equivalent to a little over one-seventh of the entire importations of the whole United States. The goods come over- land via San Francisco, hence they are always fresher and better than those subjected to a long sea voyage, as was the case when East- ern importers had entire control of the for- eign trade in such goods. All the leading Eastern importers also have agencies here, hence jobbers buy as they sell, and are not compelled to hold heavy stocks, as their sup- plies all come from the Atlantic cities. A majority of the Western and Northwestern jobbers also buy their teas of Chicago im- porters. The sales of all classes of miscellaneous groceries to the Pacific Coast States and Ter- ritories were materially increased within the year, and jobbers say it would have been much heavier were it not for the exorbitant freight charges to California and Nevada. The late period at which the Northern Pacific Railroad was completed prevented a thorough canvass of the country which it opened up to trade from this city, but the favor with which the representatives from Chicago were received at the few points visited, justifies jobbers in predicting a large patronage from there next year, as the position of this mar- ket gives it superior advantages over all others in supplying the country traversed by or tributary to the Northern Pacific and other Oregon railroads. There has also been a material increase in the volume of goods sent to the neighboring republic of Mexico, a lib- eral treaty for the interchange of commodi- ties could be effected, a heavy business might be built up witn that country. Mexico pro- duces very few articles that could not be ad- mitted free without detriment to our own in- dustries, while they want large lines of goods that we are only too glad to find cus- tomers for. KANGE OF PBICES FOB COFFEES AND SUGARS. To give a comprehensive idea of the prices, as compared with the two preceding years, we annex the following monthly range in this maiket for fancy Rio coffee and granulated sugars: FANCY BIO COFFEES. 1883. 1882. 1881. January ...... lO^!!^ IS^fgilS^ 16 @16^ February ..... 11 1214 13i4@13i2 16 16^ March ........ ll^IV^ 1'^4@13^ 15ig@16 April ......... Ili2@13 13i4@13^ 15^@16 May .......... 12i2@13 12 (12^ I. r .i2@16 Jun .......... 12 @13 12 @12i to $1.55 per doz. and closed at TOBACCO AND CIGARS. EARLY DOUBT AND UNCERTAINTY. The uncertainty as to the action of Con- gress regarding a proposed reduction of in- ternal tax on tobacco caused an uneasy feel- ing among the trade at the opening of the year, as neither jobbers nor retailers were willing to buy stock while prices were likely to be instantly and largely reduced by legis- lation. As a consequence business during the first four months was slow and unsatisfact- ory, dealers merely buying in sufficient quantities to supply current wants. But the final uassage of the bill, making a reduction of 8 cents per pound on tobacco, and $3 per X,000 on cigars, which went into effect May 1, imparted confidence among all classes or" dealers, and from that date to the close of the year trade in all lines of goods was brisk, and the consumption larger. Jobbers estimate an average increase of 15 per cent over the trade of the preceding year. There was also a material gain in the production of all classes of goods in Chicago, and especially of plug tobacco, the manufacture of which has un- dergone a large expansion. These goods are being shipped TO ALI-i PARTS OF THE COUNTRY, and meet with favor wherever introduced. There has also been a material increase in the shipment-; of tine cut tobacco to the Middle and Eastetn At antic States, while all classes of goods have met with a much larger demand from Southwestern and Northwestern States and Terri- tories. and the countries on the Pacific coast. The general result of the year's business has been more satisfactory than in 1882, and both the manufacturing and job- bing houses are regarded as in good condi- tion. The cigar trade was influenced by the same causes that affected tobacco, but like that article the trade shows a very considerable increase in the volume of poods s ,ld ami ex- tent of country to which they were dist lib- uted. It is generally conceded, however, CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURA. 157 that the benefit which jobbers and manu- facturers expected to derive from the reduc- tion on the internal tax was only partly re- alized, the STRONG COMPETITION AMONG DEALERS and their anxiety to secure trade not unfre- quently inducing 1 them to give retail buyers a very large percentage, and not unfre- quently the entire advantage of reduced tax FISH AND OYSTERS. SALT FISH. The fish trade of Chicago is gradually growing in importance, and is now of such volume as to attract marked attention. The salt fish branch of the business is represented by six houses, who make a specialty of it. They have a combined capital of about $450,- 000 invested, ana their aggregate sales reached $2,000,000 during the "year just closed about equal to those of the year pre- ceding. The volume of business was not so large, as the consumption was not so heavy, on account of prices ruling higher than in many years, due to the small catch of the various descriptions. Dealers made a strong effort to extend their trade, and goods were sold over a larger territory, the gain be- ing 1 mainly in Minnesota, Dakota, the Canadian Provinces, and in the Southwest. More fish were sold also sold in the country previously supplied, as the population is increasing. Dealers have carried fair stocks, but the majority of the time the supply was closely adjusted to the demand. At the close, however, there was a liberal supply for the requirements until the opening of next season. .About the only fault dealers had to find with the year's busi- ness was the small margin of profit on which goods had to be handled. The trade, how- ever, was in a healthy condition, and no fail- ure of a strictly fish dealer was recorded. MACKEREL AND COD. Tne catch of mackerel on the New England coast the past season was the smallest in fifteen years, being estimated at 250,000 barrels, against 378.803 barrels in 1882. The quality of the early catch was poor, but of the late 'better than the average. Prices ranged higher than for years. No. 1 opened at $15 per barrel, and in August commenced to advance, and during October reached $24, and closed firm at that price. Family mack- erel was taken more freely than the Higher grades on account of the extreme prices asked. No. 1 opened in January at $9. 50 per barrel, declined in Julv to $S. but when the shortage in the catch became known, sold up to $12, which was the highest price reached in this market for many years. The catch of cod was heavier than that of former years, and the consumption was larger. George's bank opened at $7 .50 per 100 pounds, declined in June to $0.75, ad- vanced in September to $7.25, but closed at 17, with good stocks on hand HERRING AND SARDINES. Herring were caught in greater numbers than usual. The catch of Labrador is esti- mated at 60,000 barrels, an increase of nearly 20,000 barrels over 1882. That of Portland shore herring, however, was a failure early, but large enough lately to cover the defi- ciency. The quality was good, but of small size. The consumption was larger, especially among the foreign population. Prices of Labrador ranged $1 to $1.50 per barrel less than the previous year, and of Portland shore about 50 cents less. Halifax split herring were taken freely, but no particular change could be noted in prices. Scaled and smoked herring were in small supply during the summer months, as large quantities of them were used in the sardine factories, where they were put up as American sardines, and price's advanced from 25 cents to 33 cents. An in- crease in the stock toward the close of the vear caused a reaction and prices declined to 25 cents at the close. The importations of Norway herring were 20 per cent larger than in former years, as the demand for them is continually growing. Sales were almost en- tirely to foreigners, who paid from $13.5,0 to $14. 50 per barrel for them. Stockfish sold freely, and 15 per cent more was imported than in any former years. THE LAKE FISHERIES. The fisheries on the great lakes cut an im- portant figure of the trade of the Northwest, as there is $1,345,975 capital invested, re- quiring 1,656 boats and 5,050 fishermen, with an annual catch of about 69,000.000 pounds, valued at $2,000,000. The catch of family whitefish was in- creased, and prices consequently ruled lower, declining from $4 50 per half barrel to $1. 50 on the arrival of the spring catch, and ranged during the season at $1. 5O to $2.75, and closed with fair stocks at $2. 75. While the catch of family whitefish was larger, that of No. 1 was almost a total failure on account of the stormy weather and high water, which in many instances destroyed the spawn. Very little of the catch, however, was cured, as it went into freezers for the fresh fish trade. Prices opened in January at $7. 50 per half barrel, declined in July to $5.75 and $6, be- came firmer, and closed at $6.75, with very litble stock on hand. Trout were caught in larger numbers than usual in Lake Superior and small streams in that vicinity. The quality was good, but the consumption of salted less. Sales ranged at $4 to $5. 50 per half barrel, opening at the highest and clos- ing at the lowest. Sales of salmon were 10 per cent less than in past years, on account of the catch being lighter and the bulk bsing taken for canning purposes. There was a large demand, however, and at times orders could not he filled promptly. Early in the season prices advanced $1 per barrel, out later the supply was larger, and a decline of $2 was the result, closing at $17. FRESH FISH AND OYSTERS. The fresh fish and oyster trade is as im- portant as that in salt fish, and is steadily in- creasing. All varieties of fresh fish, from the" little shiner to the Spanish mackerel that can be had in any other market in this coun- try is purchaseable of dealers here in season. The most important branch of the fresh fish business, however, was in lake fish, chiefly whitefish and trout, which are annually caught in large numbers in Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, by fishermen in the em- ploy of Chicago dealers, who have invested a large amount of capital in freezers, or ice houses, into which the fish are put and kept until wanted by the trade. The number of whitefish put into freezers the pat season was about as large as last year. The busi- ness of keeping fish in freezers is yearly in- creasing, and dealers look for a diminution in then umber cured, unless there should be an unusually large catch, waen an increase would be necessary. Prices ranged higher than in previous years. Whitefish and trout sold early in the season at 7 L 2^, but advanced in the fall to lOc per pound. 158 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. The oyster business is steadily increasing-. The regular season extends from Sept. 1 to May 1, and during 1 that time more than 1 ,500,000 gallons were sold in this city and the Northwest, over one-third of the amount being consumed in this city. The rivalry among the different oyster " houses was so great that stock was sold on a closer margin than in any former year. This has been very severe on the smaller dealers, who found it difficult to clear much more than expenses. Prices ruled about the same as in the pre- vious season. CHINA, CROCKERY, GLASSWARE. DECREASE IN IMPORTATION. The meagerness of profits in nearly all branches of commerce and industry has caused an increased economy in housekeep- ing and the adverse influences of such en- forced economy was plainly apparent on the sales of the cnina and crockery nouses dur- ing-the year juso closed. Those who import nearly all the foreign goods sold by them, as is the case with all the leading firms, also suf- fered severely from overimportations. Knowing that the duty on foreign ware would be very materially increased on the 1st of July, large orders were sent out for goods to arrive prior to that date, and, as the result has since shown, nearly every house in the trade overestimated the demand. Referring to the imports, the head or the largest china house in the country said: "We were all over- anxious to get; the bulge on the other in the way of cheap goods, and in our efforts to do so twice as many goods were imported as were required. " Finding their stores full of goods for which the demand was only fair, the desire to sell resulted in a competition which left little profit to iobbejs. But a cast- ing up of the year's transactions snows that in spite of the many adverse conditions which the trade has had to encounter, includ- ing a decline of 5 to 10 per cent in prices, the sales show an actual" increase in volume over those of 1882, which was much larger than any preceding twelve months. The gain was the result of the extra exertions that were made to secure customers from new sections, and as Chicago jobbers never lose custom that in once secured, the current year's business, although done at small profit, "will bring good fruit in the fut- ure. A feature in the year's business, and one which deserves sj eci il mention, is that while the causes above mentioned have restricted the sales of common and medium grades of goods in the sections from which Chicago has for years received the bulk of its cus- tom, the demand for expensive ware from the larger towns and cities where there is the greatest aggregation of wealth was much larger than usual. The call for costly hand- decorated china, noted in last year's report, has also materially increased, and has fur- nished employment to a large number of artists who make a specialty of that class of work. There have also been many changes in the patterns of the best grades o'f goods to suit the caprices of fashion. In reviewing the year's trade it is a matter of sincere regret that the sales have not shown the same increase as during the pre- vious two years. This is no doubt largely due to the fact that such goods chiefly consist of medium and common grades, the demand for which was lessened by the desire i ers of such goods to economize, as already stated above. The excessive importations of foreign crockery and the low prices at which it was sold also prevented Chicago jobbers from giving their usual number of orders to American potteries for goods. HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE CHICAGO GAINING GROUND BY MANUFACTURE. Although Chicago, from its geopraphical position and unequaled facilities for com- municating with all parts of the country, has for many years been the center of the whole- Bale furniture trade west of the Alleghanies, it is only a few years since it became promi- nent as a manufacturing point. A quarter of a century age fully 90 per cent of the most common articles of furniture sola here came from the Central and Eastern States. Even kitchen chairs were brouerht here from Ohio, and it would have been impossible to furnish a house of the most modest pretensions ex- clusively of furniture manufactured in Chi- cago. A gentleman largely identified with the trade states that as late as 1874 a very large percentage of the furniture sold here came from points further East. To-day, however, it is THE LARGEST MANUFACTURING CITY in the United States. Our manufacturers annually send heavy consignments to every part of the country East and West The most conclusive evidence that Chicago possesses superior advantages for manufact- uring furniture as well as of the enterprise of its dealers is that they are the most for- midable rivals in the Eastern markets of the manufacturers from whom they until recently bought the bulk of their goods. The magni- tude of the city's industrial and jobbing in- terest in this line may be inferred from the fact that it gives employment to 17,000 workmen, and the present year's production is estimated at over $36,000,000 against $32,000,000 last year. Dealers state .that while their sales in Illinois and Iowa show a decline, which is attributed to a partial fail- ure of their corn and some other crops for three successive years, Ohio, Indiana, Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Wisconsin, Michigan, and the Northwestern and far Western sections, including the Pacific slope States and Terri- tories, BOUGHT MORE GOODS than last year Missouri, Kansas, Ne- braska, Minnesota, and Dakota show- ing the largest increase. The most important shipments outside the Unite*! States were to Manitoba and Northwest Tei - ritory, whose people show a decided prefer- ence for Chicago furniture over the Cana- dian-made goods, and pay a heavy duty on their purchases here rather than buy from makers of the same articles in the Eastern provinces of Canada. The average cost of manufacturing, owing to a decline in prices of some articles of raw material, has been slightly below 1882. This advantage, how- ever, has been given to the buyer, hence dealers have failed to realize any improve- ment in profits. On the contrary, the year's results are scarcely as satisfactory as for the preceding twelve months. There is, how- ever, a sreneral feelinsf that the shrinkage in prices that has been going on for some time has "AT LAST BEEN CHECKED, and that a change for the better is not dis- tant i. gratifying feature in connection CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTUEt. 159 with the trade is the small percentage of losses from bad debts, the failures among the retail trade being comparatively light. OFFICE AND SCHOOL FURNITURE. CHICAGO THE HEAD-CENTER IMMENSE BUSI- NESS. The goods coming under the above head include all articles of bank, school, office, church, theater, opera house, and other fur- niture for public buildings, and its manu- facture is a distinct branch of the furniture industry, and is carried on more extensively in Chicago than at any other point in the country, and there are few cities or towns where such goods are used that do not buy more or less here, including large sales to the General Government for fitting up offices in Washington City and elsewhere. Liberal shipments are also made to other countries,~including Mexico, British Columbia, Manitoba, and North and South America. Unlike some other lines of manufacturing dealers say they have had an active and prosperous year. The princi- pal establishments have increased their pro- ductive capacity 25 per cent, without being able to turn out goods as rapidly as wanted, and the year closes with more orders than can be filled during the next four months. The average prices are reported about the same as last year. WALLPAPER, COLLATERAL GOODS. CONSIDERABLE ACTIVITY. This line of the jobbing trade was favor- ably influenced by the large degree of activ- ity in building operations in nearly every portion of the country, which materially in- creased the demand for wall paper and cur- tain fixtures, and the leading houses hand- ling such articles report a material gain in their sales. There was also a much larger call for better grades of goods than are usuallv called for by interior dealers, and especially from the more newly settled fron- tiers of the West and Northwest. The largest sales, however, were to the older and more wealthy States containing the largest towns and cities, the consumption of such goods in Chicago being much larger than customary for many years. Prices, however, \v ere gen- erally cheap, and the strong competition which jobbers here were compelled to meet from other cities which were trying to secure trade in territory that is regarded Dy Chicago dealers as under their espe- cial control, often compelled them to sell goods at very small profits. IRON AND STEEL. A HISTORICAL REVIEW. The iron and steel industry is the oldest not only in this country, but the oldest of which there is any record in the world's history. Hence it may strictly be regarded as the parent of all other manufacturing interests, as none could be successfully conducted with- out the aid of iron and steel. That the dis- covery of the process by which the crude ores were converted into refined metal, from which useful weapons and tools were made, was the first step toward man's civilization is beyond doubt. The date of the discovery, however, is too largely dependent on vague and unreliable traditions to admit of its loca- tion. That the discovery was old long be- fore any system of recording events was known is certain. The first successful effort at making iron in America was by Thomas Eutter, who. in 1716, erected a blast furnace and forge on the Schuylkill Biver, about forty miles from Germantown, in what is now Montgomery County, Pa, Samples of this iron were sent to England and aroused such a jealousy among tne English iron-makers that in 1719 a bill was introduced in the English Parliament to prohibit the importation of American iron. The bill, however, was un- successful, until 1750, when the increase of production in this country caused such alarm in England as to secure its passage. In 1817, just 100 years from the date of Butter's first successful ex- periment, the first iron made west of Pitts- burg was produced at a small forge erected by Ashbrand&Smitn. about five miles southeast of Pilot Knob, Iron County, Mo. A few years later a number of small works were erected in Pope and Hardin Counties, 111., and for years the southern part of this State, which at this time contained the bulk of the popu- lation, was largely supplied with iron and castings from the Pope and Hardin County works. But the increase in the production at Pittsburg ana other points on the Ohio Eiver, where bituminous coals and im- proved manufacturing facilities enabled workers there to manufacture iron so much cheaper than it could be turned out from the crude charcoal establishments in this State, caused their abandonment THE FIRST FOUNDRY IN CHICAGO. In 1836 the first iron foundry was built in Chicago, on a very small scale. It was, however, many years later ere the first blast furnace was built for the production of pig iron, the development of that branch " of iron-making, which is now a leading indus- try, being delayed by a fear that the distance from the ore and fuel supplies would prevent pig iron from being made here at a cost that would permit of an extended production. The result, however, has clearly demou- strated that nowhere outside of the ooal and iron fields can. pig metal be produced so suc- cessfully as in Chicago, and nowhere else out of the sections indicated is the business car- ried on so extensively. The total production in 1882 was returned at 360,407 tons. The exact proportion made at each point is not given, 'but as 13 of the 16 furnaces in the State are located in Chicago and imme- diate vicinity it is safe to assume that it should be credited with the great bulk of the output. The pig made here is converted into Bessemer and other steel by the estab- lishment producing it, all of whom have ex- tensive rolling mills. AN UNSATISFACTORY MARKET. Tne closing year's production has been materially reduced by the unsatisfactory condition of the iron and steel market, coupled with disturbances among workmen, which compelled the shutting down of the establishments during a considerable portion of the year. The Union Iron and Steel Works were also closed during almost the entire year through the failure of the com- pany. The situation in other parts of the country was less favorable than here, and the pro'duction smaller in proportion to the capacity. Many of the furnaces located in the iron and coal fields were compelled to close from a lack of sale for their products at remunerative prices. It is stated that 160 CHICAGO'S FIKST HALF CENTURA. out of 55 charcoal furnaces in the Lake Superior district only seventeen are in blast. Of the thirty-eight now idle only six are in a condition to blow in without re- building. As the supply of timber for fuel where many of them are located has been BO nearly exhausted as to greatly enhance the price of charcoal, there is little reason for supposing that they will ever again be put in operation. A similar condition of affairs exists in many other localities, hence it is plain that the production of charcoal iron will decline in the near future. Nor is the loss likely to t be compensated by mineral coal and coke iron, as a number of the latter fur- naces were unwisely built at points where pig-iron can only be made at periods when profits are extrordinary, having long been idle and will never again be blown in, hence it is plain that the productive capacity for the next two years is likely to be more nearly equalized to the demand, which argues an ap- proach to a more healthy condition of trade in the not distant future. This assumption is strengthened bv the returns gathered by James'M. Swank, Esq., Secretary of the Amer- ican Iron and Steel Association. Mr. Swank's report printed Nov. 1 shows that on Jan. 1, 1883, there were 417 furnaces in blast in the United States. On Nov. 1 the number had fallen to 336, show- ing a decrease of 87. Since then a few others have blown out, hence the reduction for the year may be placed at 100. The statistical position of the pig-iron market lias also been improved by a diminished pro- duction which has fallen below the very moderate consumption. On Jan. 1 there were 383,055 gross tons of pig-iron in the hands of makers and agents. " By July 1 the quantity increased to 528,590 tons. 'Nov. 1 there were 232,354 tons unsold. The 1st of November there were no stocks worth men- tioning in the hands of speculators, nor were there at any of the ports any noteworthy stocks of foreign pig-iron. Of hypothecated stocks at that date the association heard of none worthy of notice except Marshall pig- iron at Pittsburg. This was not included in the statistics ot unsold blocks July or No- vember. THE PIG -IKON TBADE. A feature of the trade in pig-iron in Chicago during the current year was the large increase in sales of the products of Southern furnaces, the bulk of which came from Tennessee and Alabama, where its manufacture has more largely increased during the past few years than in any other section of the Union. The secret of the success attained by the Southern furnaces is in the low cash at which the ore fuel can be concentrated. This has enabled makers to undersell the same giades from other parts of the country. The total production in the United States for the past eleven years, and the average price in Pennsylvania, is as follows: Price Tons, per 2,240 Ibs. 2.000 Ibs. 1 883* $22.50 4,675,000 18S2... 25.75 5,178,122 1881 25.1213 4,641,564 1880 28.50 4,205.114 1870. 21.50 3.07U.875 1878.... 17.0212 2,577,3(il 1877 18.871s 2,314,5*5 1876... 22.25 2,093,236 1875 25.50 2,266,581 1874... .. 30.25 2,68i),413 1873... .. 42.75 2,868,278 1872 48.87ia 2,854,558 'Estimated production. REFINED IKON. THE COUBSE OF TBADE. Tie year opened with flattering prospects for a good trade, stocks at the mills and in hands of jobbers were light, many of the former had liberal orders in advance of pro- duction, and the indications pointed to a liberal consumption at fairly remunerative prices. It soon became apparent, however, that there was trouble brewing, not only for the iron trade, but for nearly all commercial and industrial pursuits. These early ad- monitions of disaster were soon followed by heavy failures, including some of the largest, and, heretofore, supposed to be the strongest firms engaged in making and jobbing iron Distrust at once succeeded confidence, many orders on tile at the mills were canceled ere they had been reacned, while many parties who had previously been impatiently waiting for goods were unable to receive them when ready for delivery. The reversal in the posi- tion of the market and the growing frequency of failures increased the pressure to sell, and there was a gradual settlement in values from about the opening to the end of the year. The average price, in Philadelphia through January for best merchant bar was $56 per ton of 2,240 pounds. In February prices steadily settled, and averaged $53.76. As above stated, there was no reaction from the first start down and the closing price was $36. The highest price reached in forty years was in August. 1864, when it touched $170. The lowest prices previous to this year was in January, 1879, when it averaged $40.32, but closed the following December at $72.24. The de- pression in the trade materially interrupted the production of the Chicago rolling mills, which was further contracted by the suspen- sion of the Union Iron and Steel Company, whose works were closed early in the year. In spite, however, of the adverse situation, the Chicago mills have done a very fair busi- ness. Their production, including bar and other classes of refined iron, was about 75. 000 tons. Jobbers report a very fair distri- bution, including a large increase to the Northwest, far West, and other new sections not heretofore supplied from here. Profits, however, have been very light, and at the close there is less disposition to press sales, and more confidence regarding the future. The mills are also receiving a fair number ot orders for delivery during the next three months. The present low prices liKewie encourage dealers to think that no material decline can be possible, and that the next change of consequence is likely to be in the direction of an advance. Stocks of all classes are fair but not excessive, and the outlook justifies pre- dictions that the production during the next few months will be more closely adjusted to the demand for consumption, and business conducted on a conservative basis. The range of prices for common bar iron in the Chicago i^arket each month during CHICAGO'S FIRST MALI' CENTURY. 161. the past ye^r, with comparisons, was as fol- lows: January.. . February . . March April May . $2. 5(H?< -'.<> . 2.40@2.50 . 2.30@2.50 . 2.30@2.40 2.25@2.30 1882. $. ...r spikes, an increase of about 25 per cent since August, 1882. This capacity will be increased about 1,000,000 kegs when the new works now being built are completed. In 1882 the product was 6,147,097 kegs of 10O pon is. an i for 1883 it is estimated at 6,00(;. keys. There are sixteen States in which nails are manufactured, but the great bulk of the trade is confined in Pennsylvania. Ohio, Massachusetts, and West Virginia. Out of the 5.008 machines in u^e, Pennsylvania hns 1,425; Ohio. 8r>!': .Massachusetts, -.I 3 25 to 3 50 3. 40 to 3.50 3 OO to 3.25 3.25 to 3.50 3.40 to 3.50 to 3.OO 3 "5 to . .. 3.75 to 4.0O to 3.00 3 10 to 3.25 to 4.0O to 3.0O 3 1O to 3.15 to4()O 3.0Ot3.1O 3.00 to 3.10 4.OOto4.25 3.10 to 3. 4O 2 S5 to 3.00 3.75 to 4.OO 3.40 to 3.5O 2 85 to 2.95 to 3. 75 to 3.5O 2.60 to 2.80 3.60 to 3. 75 to 3.5O May June Julv.. Aug... Sept.. Oct . . . Nov... Dec... METALS AND TINNERS' STOCK. Business in everything that comes under this head, such as sheet iron, copper, tin- plate, solder, etc.. was for the greater part of the year as good as in any former period. There was less desire, however, on the part of the interior jobbers and manufacturers to carry large stocks, preferring to buy more frequently than in previous year*, as they regarded the outlook in many sections with considerable suspicion, which created an un- settled feeling. Jobbers here, however, kept their stocks up to what they have been, and no difficulty was experienced in filling orders. Sales were pushed in sections that they had heretofore given little attention to, and the result has been that more goods were sold, but the aggregate business wa not any greater than that of J 882, as prices ruled lower on all descrip- tions and closed weak and unsettled for sheet iron and tin-plate at the inside of the year. Tin-plate opened in January at $7 rates for standard brands, and in February declined to $6. 75, where it remained until December, when jobbers began to cut rates, and a reduction to $6.50 occurred. Sheet iron, N os. 16 to 24, opened at $4.50 rates, and gradually settled to $3. 50 at the close, with the prospect of lower prices in the near future. Copper bottoms declined from 29c to 23c per ib and closed at the latter figure. HARDWARE, CTJTELRY, AND TOOLS A CON8IDEBABLB INCREASE. The demand for all classes of builders hardware has shown considerable increase over any preceding year, the gain being argely the result of the activity in building operations in nearly every portion of the country, ana especially in the large cities and the newly settled sections of the West and Northwest, where the consumption was unusually heavy. There was also a wider extent of country supplied than in any for- mer year, liberal shipments going to all the Pacific coast States and Territories. Fair bills were also sent to the Canadian provinces in the Northwest, and a few to the Republic of Mexico. Tne demand from the larger towns and cities also included a better line of goods, or at least a larger percentage of such articles. The aug- mentation in sales of fine goods was entirely due to the material increase in the number of expensive build- ings erected during the year just closing. There is, however, an almost universal com- plaint among jobbers that while the volume of sales was much larger than in any former year, the result was not as satisfactory as could have been desired. This is attributed to the heavy production of goods, wnich induced more than ordinary competition among dealers who, finding that stocks were larger than required and prices steadily de- preciating, made extra exertions to work them off. To quote a dealer, "prices were cut right and left, the main object being to sell." As a necessary result of the anxiety to sell many articles' reached consumers at prices that failed to cover cost of production. The steady depreciation in values also in- duce greater caution among jobbers, wbo. after their early stocks were out down, refused to give orders in advance of current wants. This course. whil relieving jobbers from losses by a decline on larjre stocks, was exceedingly severe on manu- facturers, who, in addition to being com- pelled to carry goods until wanted for distri- but ; on, were required to bear aimost the en- tire loss that occurred from depreciation be- tween their manufacture and sale to retail- ers The trade in miscellaneous lines of hardware of all other descriptions was affected by the same causes influencing bu'lders' goods, and the result equally un- satisfactory to makers and jobbers. CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 163 The demand for cutlery was fairly active, and, with an enlarged area of territory to supply, jobbers were enabled to dispose of a large volume of goods. Unfortunately, however, they had bought excessive stocks at the close of 1882 and opening of 1883. This condition of the trade early became ap- parent to the trade, and was followed by a desire to sell that induced the acceptance of prices that failed to return a remuneration to the jobbers. The close of the year also finds liberal stocks in hands of manufacturers, and there is little reason to hope for a healthy improvement until the production is more nearly equalized to the consumption. It is estimated that fully 80 per cent of the cut- lery consumed in this country is of American manufacture, and at the rapid rate at which its sale is increasing, compared with foreign made goods, justifies the prediction that very few years will elapse ere only a limited number of special lines of foreign goods will be imported. The ex- ports of American cutlery to New Zea and, South and Central America, Mexico, Aus- tralia, South Africa, and Canada are also steadily increasing, the superiority of its finish, and fine temper giving it preference over any other makes where there is an ap- proach to equality in prices. There has been more than an ordinary activity in builders' and nearly all other lines of mechanics and miners' tools, but owing, as with all classes of goods, to the strong competition caused by over stocks in the hands of manufacturers and jobbers, business was done at prices that left little margin for profits, and the vear closes with good stocks. The fact, however, that all articles of iron and steel goods are now selling at such small prices as to discourage production, and tnat the cur- rent cost of both raw materials and finished goods are down where no further decline is likely, if at all possible, encourages the hope t.iiit a change for the better must occur in the near future. It also argues well for the trade that, despite the many adverse condi- tions which jobbers of hardware, cutlery, and collateral articles have had to contend during the past twelve months, no failures have occurred among Chicago jobbers. It s also safe to assume that there are few other lines of the wholesale business that nvimber a larger percentage of really strong houses than are to be found in this branch of trade. WIRE GOODS. ' AN ENORMOUS INCREASE. The large increase in settlements in the West, Northwest, and Southwest, as well as its more general introduction among the farmers of the older States, has called out a very active demand for wire fencing, which is rapidly taking the place of lumber, and the product of the Chicago wire-fencing fac- tories has been materially augmented within the year. Chicago agents of such factories in other localities have also had an increased salj for their goods. It is stated, ho-vever, that, owing to the very strong 1 competition among producers, prices have been badly cut, the average cost being the lowest on record. The profits for handling were also light compared with the volume of business, and some firms assert that the figures at which goods were sold failed to cover the expense of making, although the prices of raw materials were lower than ever before; boch materials and finished goods are now- down where a further decline seems im- possible. The large increase in the demand for woven wire for screens, windows, doors, and railings, imparted an activity in the manufacture and sale of wire cloth and coarse nettiner, and those who manufacture and sell such goods have done more than au average business, some of the Chicago factories at times being behind with their orders. Prices of such goods have also been much lower than ever before, which, no doubt, had a tendency to enlarge the demand, especially for heavy net work, which is rap- idly superseding wood for railing and similar purposes in fitting up offices. STOVES. CHICAGO LEADS THE TRADE. Those who are conversant with the stove trade assert that the United States makes and uses more stoves than any other country in the world. Statistics kept by the trade also show that Chicago disposes of more stoves than any other city in the country. Hence, it may justly claim that it is the largest stove market in the world, yet while it leads i . the sale of such goods it has as yet not made rapid progress in their product on compared with, the volume handled. Only a moderate percentage of tho^e sold in Chicago are made here. But it is gratifying to know the stove foundries are annually enlarging their ca- pacity and volume of goods turned out, and this brancu of manufacturing promises ere long to become a leading feature of the c ty's industrial interests. The facilities possessed for concentrating the iron and fuel, which are the leading factors in stove foundries, at the most reasonable COSD, gives its stove- make is superior opportunities in the way of making cheap goods. Being the lead- ing jobbing market in the United States the goods can be shipped direct from the foundry to the dealers in every part of the country, thereby saving the freight which competing establishments are com- pelled to pay when sending their goods here for saie. Inquiry among the leading manu- facturers here regarding~the materials used in stove-making develops the fact that the use of Scotch pig iron, which a few years since was regarded as absolutely requis te in the production of a strong, smooth ca-tmg, and which, from its high price, naturally en- hanced the cost of the goods, has been en- tirely superseded by mixing d.fferent grades of American pig, which are found to nrikt; a plate of greater strength and smoothness than foundrymen were able to turn out when the foreign pig was used. Many also assert that the American castings those mude from American iron expand more gradua ly un- der the influence of heat, and as a conse- quence are le?s likely to warp or era :k w.iile hot Although the trade, like nearly all other leading lines of business, has ii ul many adverse conditions with which t > con- tend, there has been a con- siderable increase in the quality of goods turned out by the various stove works located here. There has also been many improvements in patterns calculated to increase their popularity with those who se them. The square heat ug stoves in- troduce I last year have unde.gone numer- ous alterations that have laigely added to 1G4 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. their beauty and serviceableness. Some entirely new'and novel styles have been in- troduced that are far more handsome than any heretofore brought out. And it is safe to assume that Chicago makers will not fall behind in the introduction of any features that are attractive and valuable. Although the year's business with Chicago makers, and the works located at other points who have agencies here has been less satisfactory than could have been desired, there is reason to believe that no serious losses have been sus- tained by the trade, and dealers, as a rule, feel hopeful of the future. This feeling is encouraged by the fact that prces of both the raw materials and finished goods are down to a point where a further deprecia- tion in values is scarcely possible, hence' they are not likeiy in the future to sustain losses from a further decline in prices of iron which would necessitate a like reduction in pro- ducta WAGON-MAKERS' STOCK. INCREASE OF PRODUCTION. The articles classed under the above head includes all material used by wagon and car- riage makers, much of which is manufact- ured in eastern and central portions of the United Statea Some lines of carriage goods of the most expensive character are im- ported from Europe. There is, however, a steady increase in the production of both steel and iron goods in Chicago, and espe- . ciaily of springs for every class of vehicles requiring such articles. These latter goods are rapidly superseding those made in the Eastern States from the fact that Chicago makers can bring the new mater al together here as cheaply as they can be placed at the factories of their Eastern rivals, and as this is the great distributing point for such goods they have a market advantage in the way of fre'ght over Eastern manufacturers. The great activity in the manufacture of vehicles this year has caused an active de- mand for all classes of heavy iron and steel goods, and those used in wagons and truclts nave sold more freely than in any former ye r, the gain in volume as -compared with 1882 being placed at 20 to 25 per cent. Ow- ing to vhe decline in prices on steel and iron of about 20 per cent, the aggregate value of the goods sojd shows but a small increase over 1882. Profits have also been light, as tlie larger stocks held during the early part of the year, in connection with the steady shrinkage in va.uos, caused dealers and man- ufacturers to make extraordinary efforts to sell, and in their anxiety to worfc off goods prices wore so badly cut that there was little mnrgin left between the cost of manufactur- ing and distributing, and the prices at which they went to the retailer, or makers of wag- ons and carriages. During the closing months of the year the decline in values was apparently checked, and the year closes with reduced stocks of nearly all descriptions, and a more healthy feeling exists both with mak- cis ami joKb'-rs of goods, who assert that prices are down where a further reduction in values is not 1 keiy; hence they feei that un- less Fome unlooked-for disaster befa : ls the i. 1 neral business mterestsof the country, that ai;y i-licnge that occurs will be in the direc- tion of a more healthy trade. The produc- tion in the future is also likely to be gauged with a direct reference to current more than prospective wants. SCALES AND WAREHOUSE TRUCKS. LIBERAL ORDERS. This line of business, although not exempt from the influences which have adversely affected other branches in many localities, has, on the whole, not only maintained its former large volume, but shows an increase over previous years, the losses in sales to local- ities where poor crops lessened trade of all kinds being more than compensated by an in- crease in other quarters. Business with Nebras- ka, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, and Dakota was very gjod. During the closing half o the year liberal orders were filled from Oregon and other sections of the Pacific slopa. The establishments making such good% especially scale-" and trucks, have also increased their production, but, like most other goods, prices have been close, yet the general result was not unsatisfactory. Were it not for the exorb tant freights to the Pacific coast a much larger volume of goods could have been sold in that direction, as well as to South and Central America, New Zealand and Australia, where American seal s are preferred to any other, and are the recog- nized standard wherever they are intro- duced. Chicago-made trucks for stores, warehouses, and factories are also received with great favor, their lightness, combined with great strength, due to the su- perior materials used in their manu- facture, renders them universally popular. WAGONS A-.D TRUCKS. SALE AND MANUFACTURE. The manufacture of farm and transporta- tion wagons, merchandise trucks, and all other classes of heavy vehicles devoted to commercial and construction purposes is an industry that had its origin almost with the birth of tho city, and has grown up with it. There are very few other industrial in- terests whose products have had so extended a sale or enjoy such a wide degree of popu- larity. Chicago wagons are as well known in South and Central America, New Zealand, Australia, and South Afiica as in the United States, and each year brings an increased number of orders from those countries. Eu- ropean dealers are also small buyers here, and, as with the first countries named, the sales in that direction are on the increase, but the prejudices of Europeans to American goods, in connection with tlie strong opposi- tion of makers there of similar articles", lias rendered their introduction slower, and our manufacturers have been indifferent about cultivating trade from quarters where they had to combat self-interest and prejudice, so long as they found it difficult to supply the demand from customers who were only too anxious to buy, and in most cases sent their orders considerably in advance of pro- duction. The secret of the popularity of Chicago-built vehicles is no less attributa- ble to their skillful workmanship than to the superior stock used. Every article that enters into their construction is selected with, the greatest c:iie by intelligent experts, whose exclusive duties are to select stocka CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 165 Each piece of timber is thoroughly seasoned before it goes to the factory, the custom be- ing to keep several years' stock on hand, and every article that leaves the shops carries with it a g:u;uranty of perfection as regards durability. The current year's business shows a fairly satisfactory increase over the preceding one, and although the unsatisfactory business outlook in many quarters rendered manu- facturers conservative about soliciting busi- ness, yet at times they were unable to fill large orders with promptness, and the pro- prietor of one of the largest works states that during a portion of the year he found it necessary to employ an extra force, and lengthened the working hours 10 per cent to enable him to respond to the calls for goods, the largest increase in the demand being for farm wagons from the newly developing sections of the Southwest, far West, and Northwest, the sales to Dakota, Montana, and the Canadian Provinces of Manitoba and Northwest Territory being very large. The increased trade from the two last-named districts was remarkable from the fact that the Canadian wagon- makers in the older provinces have secured the placing of a heavy duty on all such aroods from the United States, and the fact that Chicaaro makers are steadily increasing their sales in that direction furnishes conclusive proof as to the superiority of their goods. The demand for wagons from Mexico for farming arid mining pu; poses has also largely increased, and letters from that country- give assurance that the present demand is merely the beginning of a trade that will de- velop as our railroad connections are ex- tended and general commercial relations be- come more intimate by the .means of re- ciprocal compacts. The general average prices for leading- articles are slightly lower tlum last year, the decline being about in proportion to the reduction in the cost of some classes of materials. CARRIAGES AND BUGGIES. CHICAGO THE HEADQUABTEBS. Although there are no very large estab- lishments here devoted to the manufacture of pleasure carriages and light business car- riages and buggies, there are numerous factories of respectable size where their pro- duction is a specialty, and whose goods take a high rank. Their annual make amounts to a large aggregate. While Chicago cannot claim prestige in this line of manufacture, it can justly assert its supremacy as the largest market in the country for their sale. Every leading establishment in the Union has an agency here, and with some of the most ex- tensive it is their virtual headquarters as a distributing point. A large portion of their supplies are also bought here, their factories being located at no UT -at distance as a matter of economy in the way of securing cheaper building sites for their plant and employes' residences, lower taxes and minimum water rates, all of which are important factors in conducting a large industrial enterprise. Tne fact, how- ever, that, as be f fare stated, the supplies are largely bought and the manufactured goods sold here gives the city as substantial benefits as though the factories were within its lim- its. I'.oth the local factories and the distant} and nearby-establishments having agencies here have had a large trcde,their shipments of fine goods being more than usually heavy and materially above any former year. Pr.ces, however, have been a trifle lower on many lines, and profits scarcely up to the average of more prosperous periods. A feat- ure of the trade was the very large increase in the demand for fine work of every class, those who have occasion to buy such goods no doubt feeling that there is no economy in buying: cheap, rough, poorly-made articles. The increasing wealth in the older and more populous sections of the country is also proving an important factor in stimulating the demand for expensive carriages and other vehicles kept for business and pleasure. SAFES, VAULTS, AND LOCKS. VEET LAEGE SALES. Although the manufacture of bank and office safes, vaults, and locks is not conducted here on a scale commensurate with other in- dustries, Chicago uses more of such goods than any other city outside of New York, In addition it is the largest distributing point on the continent Every leading establish- ment making such articles has one or more large warehouses here, whose agents sell to all parts of the country, from the Alleghanies west to the Pacific slope and north to Hud- son Bay and Puget Sound, south to the Mex- ican Gulf. Numerous export orders are also taken here, and goods are sent to Mexico, South and Central America, and other coun- tries. Large sales of locks are made to Aus- tralia. The current year's trade, while to a considerable extent "lessened by the unsatis- factory condition of business in many parts of the country, and especially in the northern portion of this and immediately adjoining States, where the crops were a partial fail- ure, sales were materially increased by the rapid augmentation of population and build- ing up of towns in the newly settled States and Territories and the extension of crade into sections that have not heretofore been visited by representatives of Chicago dealera This newly derived custom swelled the ag- gregate sales for the year to a larger volume and valuation than those of any previous twelve months, and the general result has been very satisfactory to the houses hand- ling such goods. MACHINERY, ETC. LABGEB THAN EVEE BEFOEE. The manufacture of all kinds of engines, boilers, and everything that is generally classed under the head of machinery has been conducted on a larger scale than in any former year in the history of this city. The majority of the largest manufactories have been running full time all the year, and the amount of goods turned out showed an in- crease of 10 per cent over the preceding year, which was regarded as one of the heaviest. The increase was not a surprise, as the steady growth and development of the Northwest and West is constantly requir- ing more machinery of all descriptions, and as the Chicago manufacturers are always on the alert for new fields in which to sell their products they have succeeded in obtaining the bulk of the business. Although more territory has been covered, the aggregate value of the sales does not show any gain over 16t> . CHICAGO'S FiKST HALF CENTl'ltV. those or' the preceding year, as the decline in prices at which the majority of goods were tod on account of the severe compe- Ut on and the natural reaction from i he extreme prices of former years balanced the gain in the sales. Manufacturers as a rule carried larger stocks of engines, boilers, and general machinery during the greater part of the season, but at the close they were not in excess of former years. In mining macaineiy the business during the first half of tne year was lighter on account of the large number of wildcat mines being put on the market, which made legitimate mines hold off for a time, but during the closing six months the former were largely weeded out and a large summer and fall business was transacted, sales being made throughout the West and also in Mexico, as the mines in that country are being rapidly developed. Boiler-makers as a rule enjoyed a good season, as regards the amount manufactmed and sold, which was larger than in former years. Orders were filled from the far West and Southwest, where in former years noth- ing of consequence could be sold. The com- petition between manufacturers from all sections was never as severe as during the year under review, and as a natural conse- quence the purchasers reaped the benefit Manufacturers were forced to pay as much for producing as formerly, but the decrease in the cost of the raw material partly recom- pensed them. Wrought iron pipe was produced to a larger extent, and the sales were heavier, as they were pushed freely in all directiona One new and important feature in this line was the liberal shipments of pipe into Canada, which it has been impossible to do for five years, on account of the low price of iron, and as long as it continues at the present low rates Canadian manufacturers cannot com- pete with the American in any market AGRICULTURAL DEPARTMENTS. CHICAGO LEADS THE WOELD. The large increase in the acreage of land brought under cultivation in the territory which is mainly supplied by Chicago manu- facturers of farm machinery and tools, in connection with an extended trade into many new section, nas imparted a good de- gree of activity in this line of industry, and* although the sales were to a considerable ex- tent curtailed in the Central and Southern States by the partial failure of the wheat crops, the aggregate volume of business done was larger than in any preceding year. A marked feature in th.3 trade was the in- crease in shipments to Manitoba, and other British posse>sious in the far Northwest, and were it not for the heavy duty which the Canadian Government imposes on all . classes of American farming implements, a much larger business could have been done in that direction. But the favor with which Chicago machinery has been received there justifies the hope that our trade will increase with the development of the country, which prom- ises to be rapid. Mexico is also increasing its purchases here, and will continue to buy more freely here- after, as American goods are fast supersed- ing the primitive tools so ion? in usa there. There has also been a fair gain in the sales in Europe, South aud Central America, New Zealand. Australia, and South Africa. The largestgain in shipment, however, were to the Northwest and the States aud Terri- tories west of the Rocky Mountains, and a steady augmentation may ba expected from that direction in the future. The comple- tion of the Northern Pacific Railroad nas opened an immense area of county that will find Chicago an advantageous market in which to buy farm implements, as its por- tion as the great railroad center gives bett-sr and cheaper facilities than any other city in the country. The superior character of a majority o. the machinery and tools made here induces those who once test them to give them pref- erence. This is especially the case in regard to all classes of plows, cultivators, harvest- ers, and mowers. As regards tlie last two species of machinery Chicago can justly claim precedence as the pioneer citv, as the first successful effort to make reapers and mowers was consummated here, and it has not only maintained the lead as to tha number of such articles annually produced and sold, but the machines have" a reputation that is world wide, their superiority being univer- sally recognized. The production of the different Jines of farm implements here gives employment to thousands of operatives, and represents many millions of dollars in cap- ital. BUILDING MATERIALS. MANUFACTURE OF PRESSED BRICK. The manufacture of common and pressed brick in this city was the heaviest of any year on record, and aggregated 325,000.000 on the North, West, and South sides, and 2O,- 000,000 at Pullman, making a total of 345.- 000,000, against 300,000,000 in 1882. The number of tine pressed brick mad 3 was 3,446,000, against 2,266,000 in 1882. and had it not been for the destruction of the works early in the season by fire, thereby causing a loss of four months, the increa would have been larger. There was also made for use here by Chicago brick-makers, who have yards just over the boundary in Indiana, 13,500.000 common red, and 14,- 500,000 red pressed bricks. The stock on hand at the close of the year was larger than usual, being reported by the city j - ards at 30.000,000 of common on the South and West Sides, 15,000,000 on the South Side, and 1,000,000 line pressed. In the Indiana yards the stock was 8,000,000 of pressed nnd . common. The season for making was only a fair one, being very wet at the opening, and the average number of days worked was 120. There was considerable improveme:ic made during the year by the largest maker-;, who pu: in more machinery and were anx- ious to IMPROVE THE QUALITY of their brick, and more fancy were made than in any former year. Pate.it dryers have also been put up, which will enable tliem to run in any kind of weather. During tha fall new works were erected by Chicago brick- makers at Chester. 111., with a daily capacity of 50,000. and at Galewood with 200.000 capacity, which they intend to sell in this city. Prices averaged lower than in 1882. Common sold at $7 to $10.40 per 1,000, and closed at $8. Pressed ranged at $18 to $2S for Indiana pressed, and $30 to $40 for other make-. The manufacture and sale of lime in this city and in the West and Northwest CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 167 for the past year was the largest on record. A number o: o.d kilns hi this city that have been idle for a number of years were started ;ibout the 1st ot May, and 'made a very satis- factory run as far as the production was concerned. The new firms, however, were anxious to push sales, and the result was that some of the old houses, who have had things for a number of years about as they wanted them, did not do so much business as expected, as they had to divide the territory. But their sales were up to those of the preceding year. Prices ranged lower at 05 to 90c per barrel in bulk, opening at the highest and closing at the lowest. The amount of lime burned in this city for the year was reponed by the manu- facturers at 519.500 barrels. There were also 300.000 barrels shipped from Wisconsin and Indiana, making a total of 819,500 bar- rels consumed here, and shows an increase of about 15 per cent over that used in 1882. THE INTER OCEAN is indebted to the lime manufacturers along the Mississippi River, from Qutncy northward, including thewoiks in Northern Missouri, Illinois, and Southern Wisconsin, for their prompt replies to re- quests for their production for the year, and the aggregate is 1,800,000 barrels, an in- crea^e over 1882 of 10 per cent, due chiefly to toe erection of new kilns. Many of the work< in the section of country noted above are CONTROLLED BY CHICAGO CAPITALISTS. who have their headquarters here, but sell the greater part of their production through- put the West, and have sold more lime dur- ing the past year than in any former one, but the profits were not so large on account of prices ruling lower. The manufacture of cements was larger than in any former year, the works being crowded to their greatest capacity and a number of new ones were erect jd, and some that have been idle for years started again. The amount manufactured in the West was 1,200,000 brls, which was one-third over last year. There was also a larger amount of Portland, Me., and imported cement sold and used here than formerly. The consumption of all kinds of cement is year.y increasing, espe- cially in this city, but more was sold all over the Northwest than ever before, and al- though the receipts here were unusuallv heavy it was rattier difficult at times for some dealers to till orders for certain brands promptly. The season closed with about the same amount of stock on hand as in previous years. Prices averaged lower, ranging from $ 1.25 to $1.40 per brl for common cement in a jobbing way and closad at $1.25, at which figures manufacturers as a rule have been aide to make a fair profit, and generally ex- press themselves as satisfied with their year's work. LAND PLASTER WAS CONTROLLED by a combination of manufacturers in Michi- gan, who made prices as they saw fit, but the average was lower, with sales and produc- tion larger. Plastering hair was used to a greater extent than formerly, and prices showed little variation Irom the preceding year. A new substitute known as vegetable fiber, which is said to be made of manilla, was put on the market, and although offered at less than half the cost of hair, plasterers were backward about purchasing, being in doubt as to how it would work, and were in- clined to let some one else try the exper.ment to determine the lasting: qualities claimed for it by the manufacturers. SASH, DOORS, BLINDS, ETC. THE LAKGE INCREASE in the number of buildings erected in this city and throughout the West created a good demand for all descriptions of sash, doors, blinds, etc., and sales were larger than in any former year. The manufacture was greater, on account of the gain in the saies. but dealers were able to fill orders prompt 1 y. Prices averaged about the same as in 1 882. The cost of lumber suitable for suah work was well maintained, and the only noticeable change was in glazed sash, wh ch! on account of the increased cost of glass, was advanicd. The year closed with fair stocks, and a moderate trade, and good prospacts for a large business the incoming year. WINES AND LIQJJORS. THE PASSAGE OF STRINGENT LAWS regulating the traffic of liquors in a number of States has had a tendency to decrease the sales of whiskies and brandies in those sec- tions. This disturbing element in the trade, in addit on to the large stocks on hand at the. opening of tne year, caused a curtailment of production of whisky, and distillers say that the decrease in this and other districts in Illinois has been fully 10 per cent below 1882. There has, however, been an increased demand for native wines, which are rapidly growing in favor with consumers to the detriment of foreign goods, the sales of which are declining as the American goods increase. The manufacture and sale of beer has been large, heavy shipments having been made to all parts of the country. DRUGS AND CHEMICALS. THE CENTER OF THE JOBBING TRADE. Although Chicago ranks among the most healthy cities on the continent, it is never- theless the center of the jobbing trade of the United States for the sale of drugs, and all goods used for medical purposes. As in many other leading lines of business, how- ever, its prestige is due to its geographical advantages, and the enterprise of thosa who handle such articles, rather than its near vicinity to consumers. A canvass of the situation deve.ops the fact, that while the trade during the year just closed was not. marked by the same degree of excitement, and spirited speculation, that characterize I the business of the twelve mouths immedi- ately preceding, the result lias on the whole been more satisfactory to jobbers Prices have shown more regularity, hencs: goods were handled with less risk. The average prices however, were lower than in 1882. There was also greater caution in buying stocks, which enabled jobbers to keep on a more secure basis, and rendered them conservative about granting credits. The result of the latter course was to di- minish losses from bad debts, and to some extent lessen expenses, that always show a high percentage when there is a strong competition among dealers, to secure buyers for goods with wliioh they are overstocked. But while there was less eagerness to sell goods, the general aggregate of business was fully up to that of 1882. This may bschietly 108 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. attributed to a material increase in new ac- counts, opened with customers in the North- west and \\et, especially with Montana, Idaho, Washington and Oregon. The South- west Territories and California, also increased their purchases to a fair extent. Some of the above noted sections were not open to Chicago jobbers until late in the year, there- fore they have not been able to secure much of the custom, but during the ensuing year a strong effoit will be made to obtain con- trol of the largest part of it. Our job- bers never fail in their efforts to secure trade, and it is scarcely necessary to say that they will be successful in this venture. BUSINESS OF SEVEN HOUSES. There are now seven houses in toe jobbing trade, with an aggregate capital of $1,500,- 000, and their annual sales reach $7,000,- 000. Although prices on nearly all articles have declined during the year, the shrinkage was less marked. Quinine opened in January at $1.85 per ounce, declined in May to $1.65, which was the lowest point ever reached in tnis market. In June it advanced to $1.85, and remained steady until the close of the year. During 1882 the range was $1.85 to 92. 55, and clo a ecl at the inside figure. Opium sold at the opening in January at $4. 50 per pound, declined in July to $4, reacted in Au- gust to $4. 1 to $4. 20,but afterward weakened and closed at $4. The range for 1882 was $4. 15 to $4. 75, and closed at $4. 50. Iodide of potassium sold at $1.50 per pound in January, but on account of an increase in the manufacture the price was lowered to $1.35. Cincbonidia (sulphate), which is used as a substitute for quinine, was offered more freely tban in former years, and de- clined from $1.05 to 85c per ounce in sym- pathy with quinine. Small flake manna showed about the heaviest fluctuation of anything on the list. It opened in January at 55c per pound, and advanced on account of the scarcity to $1.50 to $1.60, a heavy increase in the manufacture, brought about by the high prices, caused a decline in No- vember to $1.25 to $1.30, and closed with a fair supply at the last named prices. Es- sential oils were severely effected by a re- duction or the import duty. Lemon oil sold down in July from $8 per pound to $2 to $2.25, and other oils of the same class de- clined in about like proportion. CASTOR ortj, however, was an exception to the general rule, and advanced from $1. 16 per gallon for No. I. to $1.38, on account of the short crop of cantor beans (from which the oil is made), and the formation of a combination of manufacturers, who took advantage of the situation to increase their profits. Nor- wegian cod-liver oil sold from $2.50 per gallon to $3.75, as the supply was not equal to the consumptive demand. Quassia chips, gentian root, and prairie brava, which at- tracted so much attention last year as a sub- stitute for hops, were not called for to any extent, and prices showed little variation. Borax was offered more f reely, and declined from 15c to 13c per pound. Gums of all description aver- aged a shade lower. Sulphur declined i^c per pound, as the production was increased over that of former years, and the combina- tion which controlled the market broken. The consumption was also larger, especially on the Western sheep ranches. Chloroform and chloride of lime also showed a fair ad- vance, especially on the latter, which was used in larger quantities ttan usual. Glycer- ine declined 3c to 4c per pound, under the influence of an increased production. All descriptions of arabic gums showed a small decline. Chemicals and all assayers' goods exhibited about the usual volume of busi- ness, and prices were comparatively steady. THE BEOKEBAOE BUSINESS. " In addition to the jobbing trade in drugs and chemicals, there was a very large and steadily increasing business transacted by - commission agents and drug brokers, repre- senting Eastern importers and foreign manu- facturers who were anxious to extend their trade in the West, and in order to do so were forced to keep agents in this city with good stocks of specialties that jobbers as a rule do not carry. In former years they had to order these from the East, which created consider- able annoyance and delay, but now every- thing in tb i line of drugs and chemicals not ordinarily handled by jobbers can be ob- tained from the brokers and commission merchants here promptly. The sales of the latter reach $1,000,000 a large increase over any previous year. PAINTS AND COLORS. A LABGE BUSINESS. In the manufacture of paints, colors, putty, and white lead Chicago does a very large business. Twenty-five years ago very little business in the way of making paints was done in the West, and all the stock sold at that time came from the East. Since then, however, there has been a steady growth, and now sufficient is made here annually to supply all the Western trade, and very little stock is brought from the East. The manu- facture of putty was started about twenty- five years ago on a small scale, and only seven tons per week could be made, but now the works nave a capacity of 100 tons per week. During the year under review the manufacture of paints, colors, etc., was larger than any of the preced- ng ones, and heavier stocks were carried for the bulk of the year. The volume of business was not up to their anticipations, and in fact was less than in 1882. The pro- duction was curtailed, which enabled job- bers to redu :e their stocks to a better work- ing basis, but should there be a heavy in- crease in the trade no difficulty would De ex- perienced in supplying all the stock wanted, as the production could be enlarged suffi- ciently for all the trade. Prices of paints ruled lower than during the previous year, as much stock was forced on the market, which caused a reduction of 5@8 per cent Carodersof white lead, of which there are two in this city, reported a liberal business, but the grinders done very little. The margins were too slight and stock could be had from the caroders cheaper than they could make it. Prices i anged from 5*2 to 6c per Ib. with 6c the rul ing figure the greater part of the year. OILS. UNSEED OIL. Linseed oil crushers did not enjoy as satis- factory a business as in 1882. The competi- tion was greater, and the unsettled condition of the flaxseed market served to keep prices of that commodity above a point which made CHICAGO'S FIE8T HALF CENTUKY. 169 it impossible for crushers to purchase and produce oil at a profit. The capacity of the mills was increased 30 per cent during the year by the erection of new ones and enlarg- ing five of the old mills. Of the new ones erected, one was in this city, one at Kansas City, and one at Sioux City, making over sixtv-tive mills in the States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois. Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Kansas. The production was the largest of any year in the history of the West, and showed an increase of 15 per cent Although the demand was large, especially from July to November, the consumption did not keep pace with the production, and the result has been the accumulation in stocks since that time. The range of prices for the year was nar- rower than in previous ones, as there was less speculation, and more desire on the part of consumers to buy only as their wants re- quired Raw sold in Januiry at 49 to 50 cents per gallon, and boiled at 52 to 53 cents, which was the lowest price of the year. From that time there was a gradual advance until the last of March, when 55 cents was reached for raw. and 58 cents for boiled; in July a decline to 53 to 56 cents occurred, but in October the market became firmer, and prices advanced 1 cent, and closed at 54 cents for raw. and 57 cents for boiled, .The range of raw oil in 1882 was 49 to 63 cents per gallon, and of boiled at 52 to 66 cents, and for 1881 was 50 to 63 cents for raw, and 53 to 66 cents for boiled, The consump- tion of oil cake in the United States and Europe was large, and is increasing very fast, as its value for fattening cattle is becoming wide-spread. The exports to Europe and Great Britain were heavier than in any former year, and more was used at home. Prices showed little change from those of 1882, but the range was not so large. Sales for the year were at $21.50 to $26 per ton, and closed at $25. In 1882 the range was $22 to $28, and closed at $22. LARD OIL. As Chicago leads the world in the provision trade and annually slaughters more hogs than any other point, it is natural that the business of making lard oil should be con- ducted on a larger scale here than at other points. The lard can be had here in greater quantitiesjwith less expense in handling ;hence the Chicago lard oil presses are able to suc- cessfully compete with other points, and have succeeded in securing a very good and grow- ing trade. This has been concentrated into a few large hands, and many of the smaller presses have been driven out of the business. The manufacture of oil the past year was heavier than in any preceding one. The ca- pacity of the packers who have gone into this line of late years, was in a few instances nearly doubled, and enough oil is annually made here now to supply the Western trade. Prices were very unsettled on account of the rapid arid severe fluctuations in the lard market and ranged lower than for the past two years. The demand was good and the aggregate sales showed u small increase over 1882. The monthly range of prices for the past four years for extra were as follows: 1883. 1882. 1881. 1880. January. . 80 to 88 90 72 to 76 65 to 70 February.. 8 8 to 90 88 to 90 78 to ^83 65 March 88 to 90 86 to 88 83 to 86 65 April 88 to 90 88 to 90 82 to 86 60 to 62 May 88 to 92 90 80 to 82 58 to 60 June 78 to 88 90 to 93 78 to 80 55 July 73to78 93 to 98 83 to 87 54 August.... 67 to 73 94 to 96 86 to 88 58 to 67 September 63 to 67 94 to 96 92 to $1 65 October ... 63 96 to $1 97 68 to 72 November. 631o 65 93 to 98 93 70 December 65 to 70 88 to 93 90 to 93 70 TURPENTINE. The market for spirits of turpentine ex- hibited no new feature during the year under review. The production was large and sales and consumption fully equal to the previous years. There was less speculation, as parties who have in the past manipulated the market, did not like the outlook at the time when thev usually took hold. The result has been a more even set of prices, and a trade closely adjusted to the wants of consumers. The range of prices was downward, and touched the lowest point since 1880, and closed at nearly the bottom, a decline of nearly 21c per gallon. The following show* the monthly range of prices for the past four years in this market: 1883. 1882. 1881. 1880. January.. .55 to 57 57 to 58 ...to 51 47 to 48 February.. 55 to 56 ...to 56 47 to 49 43 to 45 March 52 to 55 58 to 64 48 to 50 48 to 53 April 50 to 53 59 to 71 42 to 46 34 to 57 May 41 to 49 49 to 56 39 to 40 28 to 35 June 39 to 41 49 to 50 42 to 47 28 to :*2 July 40 to 41 48 to 50 45 to 47 28 to 31 August . ...40 to 45 48 to 50 48 to 55 30 to 38 Sept 42 to 44 47 to 51 56 to 57 38 to 42 October . ..42 o 43 51 to 59 55 to 57 42 to 48 November. 40 to 42 56 to 59 58 to 60 ... 48 December. 36 to 38 54 to 56 58 to 59 ... 50 MISCELLANEOUS OILS. There was a liberal business transacted in machine, bank, sperm, and other descrip- tions of oils. Sales showed no special in- crease over those of the previous year. The supply was at all times sufficient to fill or- ders promptly, and prices remained about the sa/meas in 1882. COTTON SEED OIL. Trade in cotton seed oil was not as heavy as anticipated at the opening of the year, when the price of lar'd was high, and the prospect for a large business very flattering. The heavy decline in lard, that started in June, caused a falling off in the home demand, as consumers who would not pay the high price for lard when cotton seed oil could be ootained at a liberal discount, refused to purchase the oil as freely when the price of lard and cotton seed became about the same, thus decreasing the consumption. The export demand was also less than antici- pated, while the production showed an in- crease. The number of tons of cotton ssed harvested the past year was 3,000,000 tons. 1,000,000 tons of which were crushed, and produced 600,000 barrels of oil. Prices ranged lower. Refined oi; opened at 70c per gallon and closed at 52c, with good stocks. Liberal sales of cotton seed soap .tock were made to soap-makers, and the prices decline d to 2@3c per tt>. CARBON OILS. The trade in petroleum did not attract as much attention during the year just closed as in the two immediately preceding om 9 The flow of crude was large, but not up t > that of 1882, as a smaller number ot new- wells were bored and no new oU 170 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. fields discovered, as was the case in the preced ng year. Although there was a very large speculative business trans- acted in 'crude, price < were confined to a narrower range and fluctuations less fre- quent and pevere. The sales of refined in the West and Northwest were heavier than in any year in the history of the trade in the \VfSt, as th-j population is increasing and a corresponding gain is expected in the con- sumption of oil. The territory covered was larger than formerly, more oil being sent from here into Manitoba and the Northwest Territory. Stocks of all grades were ample for the demand throughout the entire year and no difficulty was experienced in filling orders promptly, The amount of carbon oil inspected here during the year was 225.000 brls against 202,000 brls in 1882, 184,000 brlsin 1881, and 119317 brls in 1880. Prices of 150 degrees test ranged from lOc to ll^c, and closed at 10%c. The monthly rang'e of prices on prime white, 150 degrees test, in this market with comparisons were as follows: 1883. 1882. January @ 1 *> 10 March. .".lo4@H 1 2 ....(SJIO April.... 10 (om~ May (oHO June 10 July 1<> 3 4 Auzust..l<) 3 4 1880. . 9 .(05 9 9 (3,10*2 lO I'2 3 4(0il4 .<. 9 3 4 12 13 15 ..(0)11 .... ....@18 3 4 11 11 Ilia IHi 11 :i*io GASOLINE AND NAPHTHA. Sales of gasoline and naphtha were large, but showed no particular increase over those of the preceding year. The supply was good, and prices ranged lower; 87 degrees gaso- line opened at 20c, declined to 18c, and closed at 19c; 74 degrees opened at 13^0, so. d off to ll^c, and closed at that price. Naphtha, 63 degrees, opened at lO^c. de- clined to and closed at O^c. GLASS. The business of Chicago jobbers in glass for the year just closed was without an ex- ception the largest on record, and sales showed an increase of 20 per cent over those of 1882, which were 25 per cent over 1881. There were three strictly jobbing houses en- gaged in the business, and their sales reached $2,500,000, and, including all the glass sold by the paint, oil, and drug jobbers, would make the aggregate be over $3,000,- 000. During the first half of the year busi- ness was comparatively quiet, on account of the small number of buildings erected, both here and in all parts of the country which depend on this city for their supplies, but the heavy increase during the six months fully made up for the backwardness of the open- ing ones Dealers have no cause to complain about their sales or profits, which were un- usually large. They carried about 30 per- cent more stock, and secured it when prices were low. and thus reaped the advantage of the advance, which was 50 to 55 per cent on American and 40 per cent on French window. The advance was brought about by the strike of the glass-blowers in the East, which closed the bulk of the American factories from Juiy 1 to the close of the year. The action taken by blowers enabled the manufacturers to dispose of their stock at good prices, and caused heavy im- portations of French to supply the deficiency in the stoak here. The capacity of the Ameri- can window-glass f actorie < is large enough to meet the bulk of tha requirements of the home trade, and, had it not been for the strike, the importations the past year would have cut but little figure in the trade. The sales of plate glass were heavier, as there is a steadily growing call for it from ail sections. The amount made in this coun- try was also larger than in former years, the ncrease bei ng due to the erection of a large ew f aobory near Pittsburg, Pa. , and a 25 per cent increase in the capacity of the largest worKs. The amount now made by American manufacturers equals about five-eighths of the annual sales. Prices ranged 30 per cent higher, the advance commencing about Sept. 1. The importations of French plate were larger, and more was used, but the improvements made by the American manufacturers is yearly reducing the sales of the foreign. Prices also followed the Ameri- can, and advanced in about the same propor- tion. Mirrors were not called for as freeiy as during the preceding year, but no percepti- ble falling off could be noted in the amount of sales. The call was chiefly for la ge, square, beveled-edged plates of the best quality. Prices of fore gu were irregular, ana ranged entirely different from former years, the French being 30 to 40 per cent lower, while the German were 20 par cent higher on account of the latter being under the control of a syndicate. Fancy and colored glass, generally known as rolled cathedral and antique, met with a good call, and prices advanced during the closing three months in sympathy with other glass. The manufacture of colored glass in this country was enhanced by the starting of a large factory at Boston, but not enough is made to supply the trade. The year closes with ample stocks in the hands of jobbers and very favorable prospects for a large business 'next year. SOAP. LAUNDRY AND TOILET GOODS. These goods have met a large sale from every part of the country and their produc- tion correspondingly increased, the leading factories having materially enlarged their capacity for producing both laundry and toilet goods. In addition, one very large establishment has been built for manufac- turing the latter. The cost of production has also been lowered by the reduced cost of lard, tallow and other material that enter as factors into their manufacture. There has also been considerable improvement in the quality of all the leading lines of goods, and in this respect Chicago soaps now rank equal to the finest made in" the country. Notwith- standing the fact that Chicago is among the largest, if not the largest manufacturing point in the country for such goods, large quantities are brought here from the Eastern and Middle States. JEWELRY WATCHES, ETC. A TEN PER CENT INCREASE. The goods classable under the above head may be regarded more strictly as luxuries than any other line of articles, hence their sale is more entirely dependent upon the con- CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 171 dition of the country than those handled by other lines of trade, as jewelry or watches, and ornamental goods, are about the last articles that people will buy when their in- come is such as to render it difficult to make both ends meet. That such has been the case with a large majority of the population dur- ing the vear just closing is beyond a doubt, hence, as a necessary consequence, the demand lorsujh goods has been lessened by the diminished ability of a majority of those who, in prosperous times, are liberal customers of those who handle such goods. Yet in spite of the drawbacks which the business has suffered from the causes stated the leading houses in the trade place their sales at 10 per cent over those of 1882, The gain, however, as with many other branches of business, may be ascr.byd to the increased territory canvassed by Chicago jobbers, who have, so to speak, thoroughly worked every portion of the United States west of the Alle- ghanies, and sometimes have been freely sold in the Atlantic States. A considerable trade has a so come from Manitoba and Mexico. The close connection now being made by railroad with the latter country also justifies the prediction that the sale* in tiiat direction will rapidly expand in the near future, as the facilities of Chicago jewelry houses for supplying dealers in that country are unequaled by those of any other city on the continent The manufacture of many lines of such goods in Chicago, and the immediate vicin- ity, has been materially increased during the year, and the aggregate volume and value of such productions is an important factor in the city's manufacturing interest, as it gives employment to a large number of operatives. Another and very important feature in con- ' nection with the tr tde is the large import- ing business in watches, diamonds, and other precious stones, which trade was formerly controlled by jewelers in Eastern cities. MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS. LARGE INCREASE IN SALES. The sales of musical instruments are expected to depend very largely on the con- dition of other lines of trade. The present year, however, seems to have been an excep- tion to the general rule, as dealers in such goods report an increase in their sales vary- ing from 15 to 40 per cent over those in 1882, the average gain on pianos baing full 25 per cent. The demand lias also been more largely for high-grade goods, buyers evi- dently having become convinced that poor musical instruments, and especially -poor pianos, are not things to be desired, hence those who are able to buy want good instruments or none. A major- ity of such goods sold here are made in the East, yet their manufacture in Chicago is ste uli'ly 011 the increase, and will be materi- ally enlarged the coming year. It will, how- ever, require time, combined with capital, courage and skill, to place Chicago on an equal footing with the old piano factories of the East, whose goods have for years held the tirst estimation of those who use such instru- ments. But the success that has heretofore attended other leading enterprises under- taken here encourages the prediction that success in this line is ultimately certain, and that it will be attained at a much earlier period than many imagine. This latter con- clusion is warranted by the unparalleled ex- pansion of organ manufacturing, which, with- in five years, has grown up from almost nothing to an annual production of 3O,000 instruments, being one-fourth of the total made in the whole country. The superiority of finish and fine rich tone of Chicago organs recommends them wherever introduced, and instead of paying Eastern makers hundreds of thousand^ of dollars annually for >uch in- struments, our manufacturers are now large sellers in the Must., where they find a quick demand at remunerative pricea The most popuiar wood used in the construction of fine organs is black and satin walnut, both of which are yearly becoming more expensive. Hence the saving to Chicago manufacturers by having their own forests, from which they cut the lumber, saw with their own mills, and season in their own dryhouses, gives them superior advantages over'Eastern makers, who have to pay exorbitant prices for materials. It is proper to state in this connection that the walnut forests above re- ferred to axe located in the most densely tim- bered portion of a Southern State, and were secured years since at a merely nom ual price: As a result the dry 'lumber" delivered at the factories costs very little more than a good article of North- ern pine. As regards beauty of finish the satin walnut has few if any superiors among the most expensive foreigii woods whose use are almost prohibited by their enormous cost, and it is surprising taat American lumbermen and wood-workers were so tardy in discovering its beauty and intrinsic value. Trade in other classes of musical goods has been irregular, the demand during the fall being fairly satisfactory, and the volume of the year's sales greater than last year. BOOKS AND STATIONERY STANDARD WORKS TAKE THE PLACE OF TRASH. Trade in this line of business has shown a very satisfactory increase over any former year, and the gain in volume and value of goods sold is the more surprising from the fact that the general trade situation has not been as favorable as could be desired. A giatifying feature in the book trade has been the large increase in the demand for tne high- est grade of standard works, while the more trashy kinds of cheap publications show a declining 1 sale. Buyers of the better class of books have also demanded a more expansive style of wprkmansh.p than heretofore. This demand extends to the traae in all parts of the country. The dealer on the We tern frontier is no less persistent in his order, s for finely and perfectly finished work than in the same line in the large towns and cities in the oldest and most populous portions of the country. The largest improvement in sales was in the West, South, and Northwest, al- though every part of the country has been a free buyer. "Prices show little change from last year. Jobbers say they have in .roduced more than the usual number of new works with good success. * Stationery, wnich is a collateral line of the book business, has also shown a correspond- iner improvement, and, as with the latter, the demand has been for better goods. A leading dealer said that he 172 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. had never before sold such a large percent- age of high-grade articles as during the cur- rent year. "There is," he said, "a great dis- position to ignore poor stock, and we have sold a line of goods to border towns that we never before supposed could be introduced there." There has also been a considerable enlargement in the number of articles called for from Western and Northwestern buyers, which indicates a growing disposition among customers in the newly developing portions of the country to gratify their tastes for finer goods, which have heretofore been sold ex- clusively in the more wealthy sections. This is especially the case in regard to expensive writing materials and cards, which have met an unusuallv large demand. In addition to the liberal volume of sales, dealers say their business was never before so nearly on a cash basis as at present; hence they reg'ard the outlook for the coming year as full of promise, the situation being much improved by the unusually clean and fresh character of the stocks of the leading estab- lishments in the trade. Profits, however, were small. This, however, induces greater caution in conducting business, and induces jobbers to carry stocks commensurate with their customers' wants. The Western Paper Trade makes the fol- lowing estimates of the trade for the year in the articles named: Paper $14,000,000 Paperstock 3,465,OOO Books 8,250,000 S ationery 4,200,000 Wall paper '2,750.000 Total ... . . . $3i>, 665, 000 Last year. 29,610,000 TOYS. INCREASE OF MANUFACTUBE. A canvass among the leading houses dis- covers that although the spring and early summer sales were but little larger than for the corresponding period in 1882, the business of the last six months showed an increase of 25 per cent, and was on the whole very sat.sfactory. Formerly a large majority of these goods were imported from Europe, where the cheapness of labor enabled European manufacturers to turn them out at prices that prohibited their pro- duction on this side of the Atlantic. But em- ployment of machinery in the American toy factories within the past few years has wrought a complete change in the trade, and the imports have steadily'declined until it is estimated that less than 25 per cent of such goods sold are of foreign make, and this amount promises to further decrease as Amer can toys, aside from their cheapness, are manufactured with a better understand- ing of the tastes of those for whom they are intended, WOODEN WILLOW WARE, ETC. SAT1SFACTOBY BUSINESS. Under the head of wooden ana willow ware a large number of articles are included, which would take up too much space to enumerate. Jobbers in this line reported a very satis- factory business throughout the year, and their sales have been larger than those of any other city in this country, and, while showing an increase of about 5 per cent in the amount of goods sold, the aggregate value was about tne same as in the preced- ing year, on account of the prices as a rule being lower. Jobbers carried heavier stocks than formerly, and were enabled to fill all orders promptly and satisfact -rily. The manufacture of wooden ware was increased, and the quality better than in former years. Prices averaged a shade higher than in 1882. The call for baskets of all descriptions showed a heavy gain, but the number turned out by manufacturers was sufficient for all requirements and no special change couid be noted in prices. In the broom trade Chi- cago leads the entire country, being so close to the base of supplies that manufacturers can obtain their stocks readily and find a auick market for their productions. The largest broom factory in the United States is located here, and has a daily capacity of 250 to 300 dozen, and there are also a number of smaller ones whose annual make cut aa im- portant fiarure in the trade. CHAPTER XIV. 173 REALTY AND ROOFS. .LAST YEAR FIFTY YEABS. INTRODUCTORY The history of Chicago real estate epito- mizes the city's greatness; is a mirror in which is seen her gradual growth to metro- politan pre-eminence. It was the accident, or rather heaven's gift, of location, a site more commanding and imperial than the Roman terminus of all the roads in Cassar's empire, th^t stamped Chicago's foundation as pure gold, and it was the uniquely, characteris- tic enterprise of Ghicagoans themselves, ever equal to the occasion, that coined that gold tor practical use. Granted that here is the gateway of all Northwestern highways, if it had not been that Titan arms drained the marsh, raised the causeway, and drove the piles to build the gate-posts those modern pillars of Hercules the city to-day might be merely another St. Louis. In looking back, the semi-centennial span and the last annual arc thereof invite a won- dering if cursory glance, for the arch is a perfect rainbow, splendid in itself and in its promise of what is yet to be. A faint flush back in the 30' s, when the great city was born, the color intensifies forthwith, like a Norway dawn, and swiftly the deepening reds ad- vance to glowing crimson. If now and then a sun spot of depression or panic varies the prisn.atio brightness, it is to remind us that Chicago real estate even is not treasure laid up in heaven; but where so remarkably as here has been asserted an innate recuper- ative vitality? Now, as the gentle reader knows, approved histories are of two sorts, inductive and de- ductive, and. if he please, let the former, or the begin-at-the-end variety, have a brief preference, long enough for some idea of last year's doings in the Chicago land and building market, and then will come in order some resume, with anecdotal accompani- ments, of the city's first half-century in these regards. DURING 1883 NEW BUILDINGS. And, for the immediate honoring of the dead .year, let its epitaph write large that no year in all Chicago's history saw such activity and results in the buildinir line, that inseparable strand in the cable of real estate. The figure magnifies itself and the magnifi- cent community where such achievements are possible 86,000 feet of street and ave- nue 'frontage built up, and not less than $22,000,000 transmuted into walls of brick arid stone, iron and marble. Not the year following the great fire, when practically the city had to be rebuilt, can show such foot- ings as these; and the record looms up the bigger, considering the unexampled length of strikes last spring by the architects' other self, the bricklayer. Statistics like, this and the interesting details are tabulated further on exhibit with a force that noth- ing else can the unexampled development of a community wtiose past, however wonder- ful, is only the prelude to new surprises. No particular section of the city ana no par- ticular kind of building have monopolized the activity, unless the construction of the new Chamber of Commerce, now well alone toward its completion by next midsummer, should be made an exception. That office buildings are represented in the grand PROCESSION OF NEW STUCTUKES is seen in such sky-scrapers as the "Calumet" (eleven stories) on LaSalle street, the Com- mercial National Bank Building (not less lofty) on Dearborn street, and half a score satellites around the Chamber of Commerce, to be equally with itself the favorites and proteges of "the cloud-compeller, Jove." whose effigy, instead of Mercury's, ought by all rights to surmountthe 224-feet-high tower b y the by to be the highest pinnacle in the whole Northwest) of the bulls and bears In business and commercial blocks, the com- pletion of the' Farwell Building, which em- bodies more million brick than any similar headquarters of trade in America, New York not excepted, sufficiently typefies the year's progress, though mention is also merited by the $500,000 huge warehouse commenced by Mr. Sibley just over Clark street bridge. In residences, whether the cottage of the la- borer, the substantial brick of the artisan, the more pretentious swell front (arenerally of ''marble") of a social .stratum more aspir- ing, the somewhat superabundant Hat. the elegant avenue facade of pressed brick and dignity, or the millionaire's marble mansion by lake or boulevard, the upbuilding lias bei n unprecedented. Even Wilbur F. Storey's car- rara mausoleum has gone up a few inches. To particularize oven a few of the splendid houses that have been added in such unex- ampled numbers to all the avenues, north south and west, must tax unduly the modicum of holiday leisure to peruse even THE [M'E.t 174 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. OCEAN, and withal would be superfluous; for, behold, are they not fully recorded and described not only on Building Clerk Edgar's "stubs" of permits, but also from week to week throughout the year on the pages of the aforesaid favorite newspaper and recog- nized authority on all news of real estate and architecture? In one word, it may almost be said, a la Augustus and the old Chicago of Italy, that so phenomenal was the building activity in 1883 that it found this city brick and left it pressed brick. BIGGEST YEAB OP AT.T, The following particulars, even if some- what detailed, will furnish enlightenment to the reader and valuable statistics to "the coming historian:" Month. Jan nary.. . February.. March April May ~l &* GO 5 o"2 |1 Feet i roiitasre . o o Sheda. 55 105 272 282 352 394 382 422 314 2O1 110 62 134 317 328 421 543 493 560 376 276 177 1.288 2.466 5, 90S 6,202 9,722 10,935 9,699 11,022 8,496 6,424 4,778 $225,000 501.720 1,483.650 1,770.720 2,746,200 2,577,000 2,317,060 3,032,280 2,444,640 1,398,360 1.235,700 32 48 156 187 194 164 144 177 148 125 61 Jane July.. August October. . . November December Total.... 3,204 4.086 85.588 21.527,610 1,602 County Hospital and City Hall.... ShedBi.. $475,000.00 160,000.00 Grand total $22, 162,610.00 Total receipts of department Expenses of department $19,190.55 14,455.95 Net proceeds over and above re- ceipts $4,734.60 WEST DIVISION. Frontage 48,629 Cost. $9,592,540 SOUTH DIVISION. Frontage 19,686 Cost ; $7,326,610 NOKTH DIVISION. Frontage 17,273 Cost. $5,241,460 LAND SALtfS IN 1883 To turn now briefly to the real estate trans- actions of the year, they naturally rise to the level of the grand advance just noted; for lot-selling and house-building in the normal state of communities go hand in hand. And so it is that the record of land titles trans- ferred in 1 883 by Recorder Brockway mounts up to totals so exhilarating to the broker and so worthy of Chicago as those tabulated fur- ther on. ' The grand total of the year's sales of real estate within seven miles of Chicago Court House was $44,164,243. An analysis of this figure in its integral parts of the indi- vidual prices realized gives equal ground for congratulation over the past and reassurance and confluence for the future. The ruling prices in the Chicago land market throughout 1883 were at once conservative and un waver- ingly sustained. What else could have been expected but a strong and rising land market in a metropolis that was adding 4 ()(>(> to her roofs and a corresponding mul- titude of new souls to her prosperous and wide-awake population? And what else can be expected now but a continuation and augmentation of the same buoyant activity? This is Chicago, and her fulfillment has never disappointed promise. This is Chicago, and yet, throned mistress as she is and heiress of future scepters unnumbered, she to-day bestows lands within herboiders at one-fourth the price of similarly situated property in Boston, and at scarcely one- tenth the New York City rate, though that settlement on Staten Island may not impos- sibly count but as a subuib of this commer- cial and manufacturing capital of the Nation almost before the century is out Here again, as in the case of buildings, there was no one section of the city cou- trollingly favored above others, the sales ranging with almost equal activity from the cheap suburban lot, with small payment down, up to the transfer, only the other day, of the $500,000 McCord estate. It is SUCH UNTVEBSALITT OF INTEREST that is the pride and hope of Chicago and hei real-estate market Equally to the capitalist who wants to net 8, 10, and 12 per cent on a down-town block (such figures are illus- trated in many Chicago investments, even at current prices), and to the honest son or toil who buys on time and easy payments a lot and a modest home that he may in future escape the vile sponges that have mopped up the sweat of his brow in the past to both and all Chicago offers the same chance an opportunity and an investment that promises (what in the world more sure than real estate judiciously placed?) the Midas gift of gold. It' anv one class of sales and buyers deserved particu- iarization as perhaps more conspicuous than another during the past year it would be the brisk investment by just the laboring people indicated in humble homes of their own, sfit- uated very often just over the limits, and so exempt from city taxes and the municipal ordinance against frame buildings. Another feature of the market, though not notably more so than in the preceding year, was the dealing in acres, the rate ruling quite steady, with commendable advances along belt and other new railway lines, as also near excep- tionally solid and bustling manufacturing suburb's. Of the speculative spirit in any of its manifestations that in the past have occasionally invited criticism and cast a too general reproach, there was little or no trace whatever, and, at least in the offices of the representative brokers, land prices ruled as steady and standard as for the staples of produce along South Water street, or the "wholesale gro- cery row" of Michigan avenue. To single out individual sales impossible, and yet more repetitious, for, behold, has not this journal weekly embalmed them? and yet again, with something of even added fullness and official rank, are they not chronicled in the book of Recorder Brock- way? A summary, as officially prepared by that courteous servant of the public, gives a bird's-eye view of the year, with a panora- mic vista of comparison embracing its im- mediate predecessors: Grand total of sales, 1872 $ 78,183.458 Grand to al of sales, 1*73 78,427.931 Grand total of sales. 1S7 4 67,871. <;:!(> Grand total of sales, ] S7."> 53,149. 851 Grand total of sales, 1 syii 42,153.596 Grand total of sales, 1877 38,123.291 Grand total of sacs, 1878 42,126,821 Grand total of sales, 1879 38,123,891 Grand total of sales, 1 880 43,682,922 Grand total of sales, issi 54,859,186 Grand total of sales, 1882 65,735,185 Grand tcral of sales, 1883 44,164,243 Grand total for twelve years. ...$640,598.012 INCIDENTS OF LONG AGO. And now, if the patient reader wants to CHICAGO'- FIRST HALF CENTURY. 175 foreclose a mortgage on the promise more fruitful, no doubt, of expectation than real- ized returns of some incidents and outline history of the Chicago land market during fi.ty ye;irs the life of the magic city let him read on in leniency. Not that the materials, rich, rare and racy, need apology, but how to eliminate them decently to holi- day compass there's the quarter section of swamp. And speaking of swamps (oh! oh!), Mr. S. H. Kerfoot, one of the Nestors of Chicago brokers, to this day has impressed .on retina and memory the sight that met him the hour of his arrival here thirty-six years ago a morass of mud before the then and now Sher- man House, and imbedded, stalled therein the mud, not the ancestral tavern, already a quite imposing structure a hack up to the hubs and the horses up to their belly-bands. Property thereabouts then ruled at $100 a foot, and Chicago already possessed for fifteen years of a city charter ! Yes, bargain indeed to-day to get half an inch for the money. Another veteran agent, still in harness, is Charles Cleaver, who arrived in Chicago just fifty years ago, and within two days had cleared $050 by real estate transactions. No wonder, with such early example, that your brokers are the Yanderbilts of the commun- ity, as well as the best fellows and most per- fect gentlemen in the world. [This kind two for a nickle.] Tradition uncertainly pictures a negro, Point au Sable, as "squatting" in 1796 on the aboriginal domain and with his Indian bride inhabiting a wigwam about where the north abutment of State street bridge now stands; and that next year, or that matter, an uugallaut Frenchman jumped the ranch, with nothing said as to the bride. At any rate it was this property and here history, if somewhat previously, opens her first subdi- vision that figures in the EARLIEST AUTHENTICATED TRANSFER of real estate in Cook County, the historic John Kinzie being the purchaser, the date not absolutely certain, but on th" eve of the founding of Fort Dearborn in 1804, and the consideration paid not known either, any more than the exact property acquired, except that the good, will of the Indians was considered as thrown in. In 1817 for "a house and farm near the fort," J. H. Beaubieri paid $1,000 to an army contractor, one Dean, but the day of booms was still , far off. for in 1823 Major Long 1 dried out his wrath on the bogs suc- ceeding- one another between the fort and the junction of tae North and iontii BI;J,UC ies by declaring he "would not give sixpence an acre for the whole d d region." Tne year the City was chartered just fifty years ago William Bell sold to S. Blood for $100 a piece, two lots, 80x180 feet each, fronting north on L.ike street and running through the entire block to Randolph street, w t.i sicli' show o;i LaSalle. opposite the tun- nel, he himsjlf having boug.,t the lots three years before at canal sale for $23 and $25, respectively. But the up-grade was starting, for only eight months later Blood was not accused of taking olood money when he sold his pa r to Pearsons and Owen at $000 aniece. To-day the owners of this magnificent property would perhaps think t!ie\- were griving it away to sell at $120,- ODD After a time there came an undue expan- sion common to the whole country, and in the financial crash of 1837 Chicago lots de- clined 25 per cent from the speculative value at which they had been hawked on the streets of New York and other Eastern cit.es. The recovery was sure, however, based on the YOUNG CITY'S MARVELOUS GROWTH, and in 1848 the value of real property in Chicago on a low estimate was $20,000,- 000, the expanding limits now reaching to Fullerton avenue, Sedgwick streoo, North avenue, Western avenue, and Twenty-sec- ond street. Still the great future of the city does not seem to have been really contem- plated, for prices ruled low, except along Lake and Clark streets. Thus, land at State and Washington streets, where a sale was re- cently made at $5,000 a front foot, was in the market at $150, with few buyers, and even in the "flush" times of 1856 Colonel George R. Clarke gave a bonus to be rid of his agreement to Day $100 per foot, all on time, for 25x195 feet on Madison street, between LaSalle and Wells (now easily worth $2,500 per front foot). It is not incumbent to more than allude to the general financial stringency of '57, or to the similarly retarding influence of the war to the effects of the great fire and the depression following '74. Steadily the intrinsic value of Chicago real estate has developed with the influx of its 600.000 people, and no temporary weight can check the inherent buoyancy! Indeed, the great fire, in two respects, proved a benefit; first, in the consequent prohibition of wioden buildings, and again in tha increased va^-u^s resulting from the plan of .rebuilding. The rescue, too, of the title deeds from the burn- ing Court House was so narrow an escape as to rank as the greater benefit. And thereby hangs a tale. Mr. John G. Shortall that night of Oct 9, '71, grew des- perate as he saw the flames draw on and no wagon at command for love or money to cart off the precious manuscripts, for "though versed in all manner of legal conveyances, he was not equal to this emergency without help from a conveyancer of a more literal or physical ty DC." But he rose master of the situation, and SO DID HIS REVOLVER. and, despite obstreperousness, with this in- strument kept carefully trained on the com- mander of an unknown craft, he coerced the fates into saving the abstracts. On the splendidly sustained operations in the Chicago real estate market in the past few years it is not necessary to enlarge, the table above given showing the remarkable volume. In conclus on one or two instances may be cited of the wealth that has come, or might have come, from modest investments In 1835 John S. Wright invested $4.000 in forty-four acres in the vicinity of what is now Eighteenth street, between the lake and State street; to-day the property, exc.usive of improvements, is worth over $2,500,000. Airuiii, a tract in Calumet, long 1 wwii'id by the late Walter L. Newbeiry, and descending to his heirs with the rest of his estate, brought 24.0OO per cent profit the cost priea having been only $1.25, the government charge. An advance even more phenomenal occurred in the property of the William B. Ogden es- tate, ly>ng west of the city, the appreciation being from the government's give-away figure to $10,000 per acre. 176 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. THE BROKERS. DOOR PLAT. OB BKIEF PREFACE. With not a little satisfaction THE INTEB OCEAN as the recognized organ and spokes- man of the landed ana rental inerests of v.he city, marshals in dress parade the solid corps of Chicago'* chief real estate men. The ranks are long drawn out what else would befit the city and so august a re- viewal as this by our tens of thousands of holiday readers? In their own knapsacks and those of their world-wide clientage this ariny carries more nuggets of gold than any which marches under Board of Trade nags or the smoky pennons of manufactories; and the bayonets of integrity, good citizenship, and personal and social worth and eminence gleam as brightly as the gold- Other sheep, too, we have, which are not of this fold, wide extended as it is; and would the reader, like Bopeep, go and hunt those sheep, they may be found brows- ing on the clover hilltops of the first page or chewing the cud of content- ment in the equally succulent pastures of "Che classified." But with so magnificent a menu awaiting, the opening soup should be no less abbre- viated than tenuous ; so here goes to the next course, and the next, and let not the reader's appetite stop short of the toothpick, meanwhile considerins himself and herself individually wished "a happy New Year," and which amounts to about the same thing the privilege ot personal acquaintance and business relations with the gentlemen men- tioned, it being merely premised that during 1884, as in the past," tie best efforts of this journal will be directed to set forward the advantage of the Chicago real estate market and men. E. A. CUMMINGS & CO. SOUTHEAST COKNEB MADISON AND LA SALLE. This firm ranks as one of the older and leading real estate firms in Chicago. The magnificent business it has built up is the re- sult of the ability, energy, and integrity that has been displayed in the management of the many interests committed to them. From an obscure rear office in 1869 it has pushed steadily forward, until to-day it occupies spacious qu-irters at the southeast corner of Madison and LnSalle streets, one of the most prominent locations in the city. Its corps of bu-y clerks, with their pleasant ways and prompt attention, make it a pleasure to do business with the house. The firm transact a general real estate busi- ness in all its branches, and wiiatever they have to do they aim to at least equal any competitor. Their motto is "The best service possible for their clients," and they aim to retain their patrons by making themse ves eo valuable to them that there can be no in- due. -ment for a change. Th"y have charge of many large estates, also great properties belonging to corpora- tions and trust companies, and their busi- ness in all departments is so perfectly sys- tematized that from the smallest item of re- pair up all can be accounted for and shown in a moment For the purpose of keeping property in their charge in conditiou they have a repair shop which is under the direction of Mr. John Hatch, an experienced builder. All material needed is purchased at first hands at the lowest possible price for cash, and their clients obtain the benefit of all dis- counts, so that all work is done at its actual net cost. In this way Messrs. Curnrnings & Co. are enabled to keep the property in- trusted to their charge in the best possible order at the smallest ratio of expense. In the selection of tenants great care is taken and the renting history of every applicant thoroughly examined. If there is any ques- tion the landlord is given the benefit of the doubt and the application refused. It is to this careful selection of tenants that a large measure of their success is owing. They en- deavor to treat fairly and justly all holding leases from them, and they have many tenants who have held their leases for years. Good tenants they propose to take good care of poor tenants they do not want at all. Several years ago this firm established a cheap lot department to their business. This was done to enable a large class of worthy citizens of limited means to procure for the least amount of money the best possible building lot They selected a number of available and accessible tracts of land and sub-divided the same into good-sized lots, selling them at low prices and on easy pay- ments. The increase in this department of their business is very encouraging, as the following statistics prove : Year. No. lots sold. 18SO 325 1881 533 1882 824 1883 1,239 Probably by far the largest business done in this line in the city. They made Moreland quite a large town out of prairie land; Auburn also, and then Douglas Park. Lawndale. and many inside subdivisions nave experienced a marked change in a few years. It requires eight branch offices, located in different parts of the city and county, to run this department The firm have in their employ an army of agents who are constantly at work disposing of lots in their respective subdivisions, which now number thirty-seven. The members of the firm are Edmund A Cummings, Silas M. Moore, and Robert C. Givms. all veterans in the real estate business. THE HOUSE AND LOT MONTHLY, a sprightly periodical, is published by them, and is under their control. This paper, be- sides conta ning muc:i valuable real estate information, contains their complete list of property for sale. It has a wide circulation and is itself becoming an institut on of the city. This sheet contains twenty pages and will be mailed free to any address during the year 1884. Parties desirous of buying real estate will find it to their advantage to peruse The Howie and Lot. CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 177 KNIGHT Jfc MARSHALL,. THIRTY YEAKS IN BUSINESS. No other real estate house in Chicago can point to thirty years of steady possession of one and the same office a? can this well- known firm, whose specialty is the renting business. Back in 1854 they occupied, just as at present, Room 10, Lir- mon Block, now Reaper Block, Wash- ing-ton and Clark streets, and the old-time pre-eminence of the house has descended un- diminished to its young and enterprising representatives of to-day Messrs. John B. Knight and James M. Marsiiall who have still further widened the scope of the firm's operations. Few renting, rent-collecting, and tax-paying agencies in any city have such extended lists of property confided to their care, both by resid"nts and non-resi- dents, and not one has administered the trust more to the satisfaction of patrons. At the same time, each year a large and growing aggregate of real estate is bought and sold by the firm on commission, and loans are ex- tensively placed. All kinds of real estate pauers are made to order. Asked their ideas for THE INTEB OCEAN'S New Year's prospectus on rents, building loans, and land sales, the gentlemen replied that offices and stores promised to rent as last year, or in that neighborhood, and that moderate sized dwellings, especially on the West Side, would likely rule somewhat lower. In some directions, in flats, for instance, the demand for new buildings was now fully met and, although the firm had not a roof unrented, to go a little slow might be wis- dom. For loans there was promised a stfcady demand at conservative rates, and the boom in cottage building would no doubt continue. As to coming purchases of city and suburban lands, the outlook betokened a marked de- mand, both from heavy investors and from buyers seeking homes of their own. MEAD & COE. BEPBESENTATTVE FTBM. For THE INTEB OCEAN annual review and prospectus of real estate the well-known firm named above, officing at No. 149 LaSalle street, Major Block, and who have been in continuous business since 1867 without a change of firm name a remarkable circumstance consented to be inter- viewed. Their opinions, it need scarcely be premised, embody the conservative and rep- resentative tone of the market. As to loans, the gentlemen report considerable capital now in Chicago seeking that mode of invest- ment, the supply being more than equal to tiie demand, with rates fairly well sustained. Heal estate secured loans continue prime favorites with trustees of estates, widows, old people all who are pretty conservative. They only loan 50 cents on the dollar, and receive as security good improved property, on which, in event of foreclosure, they can realize unquestionably. They loolc for long and safe investments and only moderate rates of interest. Money for these louu loans is abundant, and is largely furnished from the accumulations of Western people. An increasingly popular substitute with capitalists for loaning money is to invest it in central business property having a steady, permanent income, and the buyer can afford to pay a fair profit to the Chicago man who has been enterprising enough to make the improvement. Thus a Philadelphia estate now seeks just such an investment in Chicago, preferring this method to loaning. The prospect favors a sustained building activity, the cost of building having dropped in the past four months from 15 to 18 per cent-^-a result of the unexampled stock of material with the probability that labor must to some extent sympathize. In pre- vious years Chicago was unequal to supply- ing the material wanted here during the building season; now her facilities for manu- facture and importation yield ample sup- plies, the quantity of brick now in stock being larger that ever before. At present prices, persons can go out, purchase real es- tate, and, putting a building thereon, obtain a better return for their investment than in making loans. While old buildings may in some instances suffer, new buildings will command fair rents. There has been a scarc- ity of stores during the last three years in the spring, but the appearances now are that the supply of stores is about equal to the demand; while there is no overbuilding, the supply is fair. Up to the present time dwellings have been well .occupied on the North and South Sides of the city, and also pretty well on the West Side, yet there are more signs there of a full supply than on either of the other sides; but in favorite localities there and elsewhere rents have been well sustained, and it is inferred from the rentings made by the firm during the fall that they will continue to be well sustained. It is safe to say. how- ever, that rents are up to their full height, or high as tenants can afford to give, the power to pay not being equal, certainly, to any new tax. F. A. HENSHAVT. BBOKEBAGE AND HOUSE-BENTINO. Chicago needs many brokers, but only of the high standing and honorable record of Mr. Henshaw, whose office, room 4, National Life Building, 161 LaSalle street, is the center of a well-established and developing trade, both in general brokerage and house-renting. Non-residents find in him a faithful and prompt representative, as alive to their inter- ests as his own, and in every client is found a referee and stanch standby. Mr. Hen- shaw's attention is divided about equally between renting and sales. In the new year he expects, in the land mar- ket, a sustained and enhanced activity and success. The future of Chicago real estate enfolds bargains and fortunes surpassing her past BALEU) & BRADLEY. 90 LASAXLE STREET. Founded in 1859, this representative firm pursue the even tenor of their way in loans, sales, and rents, in each branch of their tri- partite occupation equally enterprising and conservative, as becomes a house which is at once the oldest on the street as regards con- tinuous service, and yet as wide-awake as the newest Kindly sparing a few moments, Mr. Lyman Baird expressed for himself and Mr. Francis Bradley the expectation, which it is reassuring to know is shared in by the other leading houses, that the year 1884 will 17* CHICAGO'S FIRST HAT.F (CENTURY dispel any clouds over business, and prove very active m all departments of traue and commerce, and, therefore in real estate, that great index of the public pulse. This city was Chicago, and a faith rising into confi- dence could be pinned to her destiny. With the steady growth of this metropolis, the value of real estate and judicious building investments must advance correspondingly, and the low figures of to-day become sub- jects of surprise in the near tuLure. In short, the real estate situation and outlook were in- natelv inherently promising, and that fact carried with it prosperous days for building and loan investments. Indeed, in both these latter branches, scarcely less than in the firm's other prominent department of buying and selling real estate on commission, there were already to be seen evidences as in the market generally he thought of the quick- ened life of the new year. JOHN JOHNSTON! JR. HUMBOLDT HEADQUARTERS. If the most pronouneced feature in real es- tate the past year was the boom in Humboldt lots and houses, whereby the city was ex- tended bodily and solidly aoross the north- western limits, the artesian well of this flood was No. 80 LaSalle street, the office of the well-known lawyer and landed proprietor named above. A branch office on the grounds, along with a great new subdivision, was needed for the overflow, and still the tide rises. To one who has not lately visited this beautiful Humboldt Park section, the out- stretching ranks of neat houses and happy homes that are so rapidly appropriating Mr. Johnston's lands, must beget a new enthusiasm over the greatness of Chicago, where suburbs are born in a day. Situated nearer the Court House than extensive por- tions of the city itself, and quickly and cheaply reached by steam cars and horse cars, this district of parkway and boulevard has a natural basis for the popularity which Mr. Johnston's courteous agents and reason- able terms have confirmed. Not far distant, at Milwaukee and California avenues, close ( to the boulevard, is another of the gentleman's subdivisions, and here too the sale of lots has been very rapid. This whole region is advancing steadily and remarkably in popu- lat. on, and land values must correspond. In many other directions Mr. Johnston is placing on the market property owned by him. whether city lots or acre tracts, in South Chi- cago and elsewhere, and as negotiations are made direct with first hands, it is easily explained how the sales of this repre- sentative house so materially swell the total of the year's transactions in the market J. C. MAGIL.I. & CO. POPUIARITY AND PUSH. It is sometimes hard to put facts, lest their adequate statement should sound to the stranger like adulation. Those, however, who know Mr. J. C. Magill and Mr. Silvanus Wilder, No. 90 Washington street, and their rank in the real-estate business of Chicago, will allow tuat they are entitled to ail we say. With eleven and fourteen years of experience respectively, a thorough ac- quaintance with localities and values all over tue city, with their own capital and that of numerous clients, never so many as last year, they can assist would-be house- builders as well by cash loaned as by advice as to tiie best spot and matliod to use it; with enthu- siasm and dash that at once commend their energy and their pride in their business, the firm beget a like interest on the part of others in the magnificent opportunities offered to capital for investment in Chicago property. Backed, finally, by a personal equipment as fortunate as their professional, the firm ever add new friends to the old. They have made a specialty of investments for non-residents, ior whom 'they have made many profitable purchases. They have also sold a large number of val- uable "pieces of property in other cities to parties residing there, whose local real estate agents had not succeeded in interesting them. Therefore, it is not strange that the sales of this house the past year reached such con- spicuous figures, and that their clients in- clude the names of a large number of prom- inent and wealthy investors in nearly all parts of the Union, and many in Canada. "Get as good rents as responsible tenants will pay" is their rule. All branches of their business have more than doubled in the year 1883. the increase having been brought about largely by the disinterested efforts of their clients, to whom the firm wish to extend their sincere ac- knowledgments and best wishes for the new year. _ PERMANENT EXHIBIT AND EXCHANGE OF BUILDING MATERIALS AND IMPROVEMENTS. The exhibit will be opened free to the pub- lic Feb. 1, 1884, at the northeast corner of Wabash avenue and Washington street. The enterprise is for the purpose of placing- within easy reach of the building public the great variety of materials and the many in- ventions and improvements of building. It will give an opportunity for personal inspec- tion of all kinds of inventions and materials, including the great variety of building stones, granites and marbles, ornamental and plain pressed bricks, specimens of terra cotta work, fire-pioof materials and con- struction, cements, mortars, and concretes, the varied designs and inventions in sani- tary appliances, heating and ventilating ap- paratus, tiles, roofing -tiles, slates, hardware, and specialties of hardware, plain and orna- mental iron specialties, various woods, veneers, marquetry work, stucco ornamenta- tion, ornamental glass and decorative work. Skilled attendants will be in charge or' the several departments, and every facility pro- vided for the patron seeking informacion regarding materials exhibited. Communi- cation will be made by telephone and dispatch boys with every local house. Architects and their clients are cordially in- vited to make use of the exhibit, and every endeavor will be made to assist them wheiv possible. Architects and others from abroad interested in building can make this insti- tution t'leir headquarters while remaining in the city. Communications relative to ma- terials on exhibit will be attended to, and everv endeavor made to fulfill tlie wants of CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 179 patrons. The expenses of the institution are defrayed by a charge made to the exhibitors for space as rental, so that the public may nave the full benefit of the display gratia The management desires to perfect the arrangements and conveniences of this insti- tution where possible, and patrons need not hesitate to apply for any peculiar demands that may occur to them. HKNBT LOED GAT, Proprietor. WM. D. KKRFOOT & CO. CHICAGO REAL ESTATE AGENCY. If architecture is "frozen music," the ac- companying illustration, which explains its well informed would not say, "Wm. D. Ker- foot & Co. ?" JAMES W1L.MOTT. NO. 106 DEABBOKN STREET. One of the younger brokers, yet with not a little experience, having been connected with, and succeeding in business, a firm long established, Mr. Wilmott, No. 106 Dearborn street, ground floor, ranks with the veteran loan agents in point of popularity and pat- ronage. Besides his own personal invest- ments, he represents other large inter- ests, and to one and all he devotes the same OUR OFFICE THE DAT JUTER G-RIAT FO5B OF O0TCKHHE 3(, UW, own sharp" contrast, will sing eloquently and truthfully of real estate and loan brokers xanspeuret sans reproeh a house established twenty-one years ago, a house foremost in deals, a partnership of gentlemen Messrs. William D. Kerfoot, William A. Merigold, George Birkhoff, Jr., No. 90 Wash- ington street The parties, estates, and corporations represented where are they not found? And wherever found, they are clients still or friends. Asked to name the real estate house of Chicago, who that is impartial care and attention, not forgetting either the cause of the borrower, which, after all, is that of the lender. On good se- curity he allows no broker to underbid him in favorable terms. In building loans espe- cially he has done a brisk trade, and negotia- tions already under way for the new year in- dicate a material activity in this direction. As to ruling rates, while the general ten- dency is conservative, as low as 6 per cent will no doubt be a common figure on ap- proved collaterals. There is no question that Chicago houses and lots will always rank as the most gilt-edged of securitiea 180 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. Mr. Wilmott refers to his many patrons in the E st as well as in Chicago. His record is his best reference, he ne/er having lost a sum intrusted to his care. GEORGE A. EMERY, 92 WASHINGTON STBEET. Geo. A. Emery says the market looks un- usually bright and prosperous. Mr. Emery makes a specialty of property on the avenues and boulevards south, and is recognized, as the highest authority in regard to values on the South Side. He says the tendency of this city is south, and that the city is grow- ing more rapidly in that direction than any other. All cities have a tendency in one direction, which, when once developed, it is impossible to change. London has been growing in one direction for over 500 years, ail the large cities of the world have the same tendency. On the principle that birds of a feather flock together the wealthy men of Chicago have secured homes on the South Side, and people who are not BO wealthy, being desirous of locating in the same vicin- ity, will pay higher rents, and for that reason the land is more valuable. The city grows south about one mile every ten years. The parks, located as they are south of the city, attract people there, and the growth of the city crowds them in that direction. Each year the facilities of transportation are im- proving, and in a short time a person living in the vicinity of the present limits can ar- rive home as quickly as if he now lived at Twenty-second street. The new Board of Trade, located near the depot of the Michigan Southern and Eock Island Railroads, will, waen finished, create a demand for property on the avenues and boulevards north of the parks, and our shrewdest and wealthiest men are now purchasing in that vicinity in antici- pation of the rapid growth which is inevitable. The Michigan South- ern Railroad now runs several trains down Clark street and across the avenues and boulevards, on Fortieth street, stopping at each one of the avenues and boulevards, to Drexel boulevard, and the Board of Trade men are buying largely for homes along on the avenues and boulevards in the vicinity. Several elegant houses are now building by Board of Trade men, and the demand seems to be increasing. Indeed, the vicinity will become a neighborhood of Board of Trade men. who, as a class, are whole-souled, ge- nial spirits, who like to live well, make their monsy easy, and spend it in the same gener- ous way. There is no doubt but what the locality will become eventually the choicest residence part of Chicago. THOMAS H. PATTERSON. HIS DEALS LAST TEAK. For THE INTEB OCEAN review and pros- pectus of the real estate situation the scribe called on the gentleman named above, office No. 188 Dearborn street. as one of the most conservative repre- sentatives of the trade, and al- ways well posted on the market. Mr. Pat- terson's deals the past year, though his con- spicuous modesty fore bore to develop this point, helped most materially to make up the splendid volume of the year's businesa Among these transactions were a number of large acre deals and others in boulevard property, besides closing out during the year three suburban subdivisions inside the city in the West Div sion, the gentleman handling both his own property and the interests intrusted to him by other capitalists, both in this city aud the East. For the coming year the pro?pec.s indicated a good business, both in city real estate proper and in the outlying manufact- uring districts. Too much 'faith could not be placed in the grand destiny of this city and, therefore, in its land, the basis of all the successes to come. At rates much higher than those now ruling Chicago terra firma was the cheapest of investments. BOGUE AND HOYT. 170 DEAEBOEN STBEET. The gentlemen of this representative firm, Messrs. Geo. M. Bogue, Henry W. Hoyt and Hamilton B. Bogue, have ]ong been es- tablished in the real estate business in Chicago, and speak hopefully of the pros- pects of a promising business for the year 1884, a prophecy evidently founded in good measure on their extensive operations in the year just closed. They do a general real estate business, buying and selling real estate on commission, giving 1 special atten- tion to the care and management of property, paying taxes, collecting rents and also giving special attention to the interests of non- residents, by whom their services were more widely sought the past year than ever Their line of property, embraced in the South Division and conveniently located ro the steam cars and the Illinois Central Railroad, within and about the boulevards and parks of the South Park system, presents great attractions to people looking for the finest and most desirable location for a residence. Few people seem to have as yet appreciated the great ad- vantage of this South Side property, in that steam communication brings the property very near to the heart of the busi- ness district. In addition to that, Michigan avenue boulevard, which affords the best carriage way in the world right down to Jackson street, must make this entire South Side property the most desirable and the most sought for of any property in or about the city. Their South Side list of property embraces property both on the Grand and Drexel boulevards, together with finely located tracts in the choice Kenwood section. Many very costly improve ments have been put up in this locality during the past season, and the indications are that the improvements during the next year will still further en- hance the beauty and attractiveness of this region. They have for sale lots in Mr. O. R. Keith 's subdivision at Woodlawn, embracing the property between the right of way of the Illinois "Central Railroad on the east and Woodlawn on the west, on either side of Sixty-third street. They have dur.ng the past year sold a large number of lots, on which some fifteen or twenty very cosy pleasant homes have been built and occu- pied by the owners, who are in most cases con- nected with the leading jobbing houses of the city. The Illinois Central has just completed a new brick depot at Sixty-third street, which is probably without exception the finest one along its line. The community ia CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 181 well supplied with school privileges. The Presbyterian denomination have secured a lot at the corner of Sheridan avenue and Sixty-fourth street on which a church build- in? is immediately to be erected, they hav- ing already obtained a subscription of about $2,000 for that purpose. The accessibility of this property.the railroad communication, and the beautiful South Park, taken in con- nection with the price at which lots can be sold $17 to $3o a foot, according to loca- tion make it naturally a favorite and popu- lar investment. Among the other desirable property this firm offers they call special attention to the Illinois Central subdivision at Hyde Park, located on the east side of the tract near the lake, be- tween Hyde Park and South Park Stations. Sewerage and water have this season been provided for this property, and it is offered at very low prices. H. C. MOREY & CO. 85 WASHINGTON STREET. 'This well-known firm, No. 85 Washington street, continues, as for years past, to do a general real -estate business, and to pay large attention to the care and management of property for non-residents and others. They have charge of the Union Mutual Life Insurance Company's varied line of property. Few brokers do as large a business; none wear their honors with more modesty. The senior member of the firm is President of the R. E. and R. A. Association, and Mr. Ed- gar M. Snow the junior member. The rec- ord of the house is the best explanation of the past and guarantee of the future. JS. A. WARFIELD. 99 WASHINGTON STBEET. Offlcing at No. 99 Washington street, this broker and genial gentleman does a real estate business without ostentation, but al- w iys on the riffht side of the ledger in satis- faction for his patrons, whose number has greatly increased the past year. Mr. War- field's deals included some of the largest that went to record, particularly in the line of South Side property, while his princi- pals and patrons are among the solid- est men of the city and country. In cheap lots he did a thriving business, also, a depart- ment of the trade that promises even better results this new year. Consenting to don the prophetic robes, he foresaw for 1884 a sustained and augmented interest in the really few gilt-edged bargains now remain- ing in real estate" property, and the same would be true, he thought, of the best located acres for manufacturing purposes. SEARL, & ZANDER. ESTABLISHED THIRTY YEAB8. This well known real estate agency has been established on South Clinton street since 1855 and almost continuously at their present site. No. 69, just north of Madison street. This length of honorable dealing is equaled by no West Side house, and by but few in the city. The firm, consisting of George A, Searl and E. W. Zander, makes a spec alty of its renting department, although transacting a general real estate business, and has on its boards a large list of stores and offices in all parts of the city. They re- present Eastern and European investors, two recent deals having been for London and Paris residents. The name of the firm is synonymous with careful at- tention to property confided to them and courteous treatment of customers. As to the prospect of rents the coming season, Messrs. Searl & Zander consider the outlook a conservative one, with the probability that flats may rule a 1'ttle dull. The marvelous and steady growth of the city, however, es- tablishes the safety and profitableness of building investments. HENRY C. JACOBS, BOOM 28, 99 WASHINGTON STKKET. Making a specialty of Englewood and South Chicago property, this experienced operator deals in lots and also in acre tracts. He invites the special attention of non-res- dents who desire to invest in a small way, in single lots or more, he haying inside ad- vantages on price and exceptional opportuni- ties for securing returns, as his many patrons will testify. Having subdivided ten acres in Englewood, he proposes to forward the in- terest of his increasing number of clients and correspondents by a somewhat novel but very advantageous way of disposing of the same to the best account. MANN & CONQDON. POPULAB AND ENTERPRISING. Ex-Sheriff O. L. Mann captured when in office too many prisoners and golden opinions to let success escape him on active return to his old love, the handling of Chicage realty, especially as his enterpiising young partner now is the same efficient co-operator as in the old days Mr. E. A. Congdon. Indeed, the firm has had a continuous life since its first organization, if a partnership may be conceived of as at times playing substantially a lone hand; but General Mann is latterly once more wholly identified with the trade, as his many clients are pleased to know. Be- sides a wide activity in city property, the firm has extensive stakes in Dakota, where their operations are as promising as promi- nent. In loans, sometimes on farm securi- ties, as also in rents, a good business has been done, and the New Year must still fur- ther pull the latch-string of these deservedly popular dealers. No. 95 Washington street. S. E. GROSS & CO., CORNEB MADISON AND CLARK STREETS. This real estate house occupy the most con- spicuous office in Chicago or the Northwest, the entire first floor of the bull ding northwest corner Madison and Clark streets, those two highways of the city's commerce. Their loca- tion, made the more a landmark and a feat- ure of Chicago by marble-white exterior walls emblazoned with uniquely beautiful ornamental signs in color and gold of the substantial, comfortable homes that the firm sells at such reasonable terms and in such vast numbers, is but a fitting index and title deed to the pre-eminent position and success of the house. S. E. Gross & Co., while not neglecting any branch of the real estate busi 182 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. ness, have achieved a fame, wide as the city's, for the wholesale supply of houses and lots to the multitude. The name of S. E. Gross appears oftener on the records of Cook County in transfers of real estate than any other three men in Chicago. Great and growing as is the popularity of the house, it is yet easy of explanation, for not only are the attaches of the office gentlemanly and courteous, only less so than the chief him- self, but the variety in location and style of the homes offered is only equaled by the wholesale rates and easy terms ex- tended, if a home is your ambition, whether in city or suburb, call on S. E. Gross & Co., Madison and Clark streets. COUNTY ABSTRACTS. STEADILY APPBECIATING IN FAVOB. The remarkable growth in public favor of the Cook County Abstract Department is set forth most strikingly by the logic of figures. Of course at the start such an enterprise, a new thing, would naturally not secure as many patrons as an old established business, and so for the first fifteen months after the founding- of the department in August, 1875, the receipts were $4,500 not a bad begin- ning but still the day of small things. Look on that picture and then on this : During the past six months the department's receipts are shown by Recorder Brockway's report of * Nov. 30, 1883, to have been $17,312.50 a proportion not less than ten times as great Despite ail opposition, the County Abstract Department has steadily advanced in recog- nition and business, and its patrons, as a glance below will demonstrate, embrace the most conservative of representative brokers and citizens. This fact is a sufficient diploma of absolute reliability and authority, while the reasonable charge for county abstracts is by no means to their disfavor; indeed, in this respect the department has held the balance of power against what had threatened to be- come, since the general destruction of titles in the great fire, an insupportable tyranny and a tax not to be borne. This beneficial service deserves recognition and emphasis. The per- petuation of the County Abstract Office is a constant assurance to the public that they will be enabled at all times to obtain reliable abstracts at reasonable rates. It is a sentinel, standing over the private firms, compelling them to observe reasonable and proper charges in their dealings with the public. To-dav the County Abstract Office is furnish- ing abstracts 33 per cent less than for the same sort of work furnished by private firms. In view of such a fact, well may a department of the public service that saves to the citizen such large expense continue to receive the enlightened support of the Hon- orable Board of County Commis -loners. As the department's earnings accrue to the public treasury, and by so much lessen the burdens of taxation, it is evidently to the common welfare that the popularity and business of the office should grow yet more rapidly. That so reasonable a support, prompted by self-interest as well as inherent merit, will be more and more general!} ac- corded in the new year is the surer because each passing month adds yet more to the completeness and perfection of the de- partment's unsurpassed records and facilities. On much of the success of the department the present able and polite Recorder of Deeds of Cook County is personally to be congratu- lated, for it has been a special protege of his care and thought, while the obliging staff of employes have efficiently re-enforced Major Brockway in popularizing the institution. In conclusion let a very fragmentary roll call be given of the multitude of our most solid citizens, who have been quite content to patronize the unjustly maligned County Abstract Office: Elliott Anthony, A. J. Averell Wm. Aldrich, T. S. Albright,' John I. Ben- net, B. I. L. & B. Co., I. K. Boyesen, Asa W. Buell, Dent & Black, Small & Moore, William Elliott Furness, William C. Seipp, Barthoio- inas & Leicht. H. J. Christoph. Commercial National Bank, Clark & Silva, City National Bank, Crane Bros., Chicago and Western In- diana R. R. , Cooper, Garnett & Packard, Nathan Corwith, Judge Doolittle, H. C, Durand, Lyman & Jackson, J. H. Dunham, Judge Loyell, of Elgin; L C. Payne Freer. Home National Bank. Field & Leiter, Felsen- thal & Kosminski, J. H. Follansbee, J. & J. M. Gamble. C. J. Hambleton, Vim H\ Higgins, Alvin Hurlbut, E. S. Hubbard, Harrison & Weeks, Hyde Park Villaare; Holmes, Rich & Noble, Hutchinson & Lill, K'rk Hawes, Judge Farwell, Sheriff Hanchett, Haines. English & Dunne, Heath & Milligan, Ernst & Smith, International Bank, Illinois Trust and Sav- ings Bank, R. E. Jenkins, John Johnston, Jr. . Juessen & Anderson, Jno. H. Kedzie. C. C. Kohlsaat, Wm. H. King, Keeley Brewing Company, Knauer Brothers, General Leake, Adolph Loeb & Brother, B. Loewenthal, H. B. Lewis, Englewood; H. C. Morey, Judge Ad- kinson, John & Walter Mattocks. Mead & Coe, B.F.Crilley,O. L. Mann,General John A.Logan, B. D. Magruder, Mechanics and Traders' Loan and Building Association. E. G. Mason, Judge Thomas Moran, J. N. Barker, Moses 0 a foot The prospect is that, with the comple- tion of the Chamber of Commerce, ju^taoross the street from the depot, the new year will bring to these nearest and long- popular suburbs more new residents than 190 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY ever. Mr. Wilson has charge of extensive es. tates of non-residents, besides transacting a loaning 1 and renting business. ALIJERT WISNER. HOMES FOB THE MANY. Transacting a real estate business in all its branches, Mr. Wisner, No. 69 Dearborn street, Rooms 1 and 2, is now identified more particularly with the movement to furnish comfortable and mode rate-priced homes, such a notable feature of the situation at this time. His subdivisions lie in all desired directions and his clients are legion. It is certainly a healthy market when such a general deter- mination to own a home shows itself, and tnat dealer is a public benefactor who puts the desired boon most easily and cheaply within reach. Loans to build such homes are made by Mr. Wisner, and with the help thus afforded many of our young business men are occupying homes of their own, particu- larly in the south portion of the town of Lake View, adjoining the city limits. A fea- ture of Mr. Wisner's business, also, is an ex- tensive line of rents. F. C. ViERLJNG. YOUTH, DASH, AND SUCCESS. No annual trade review would be thorough unless reflecting the year's record of such a 1 representative of the youth, dash, ana suc- cess that have made famous this Chicago real estate broker. In himself he epitomizes the qualities that in any vocation place their pos- sessor at the front, and it is not strange that his spacious ground floor office, No. 110 Dear- born street, is recognized as a hea i-center for the trade Besides a general real estate agency, Mr. Vierling handles as a specialty West Side business property and South Side business and residence property. The de- mand for lands, that surest of investments, he regards as even more auspicious for 1884 than during last year, while the call for houses, along with the rents thereof, must continue as sustained as Chicago's wonderful growth in population and importance, a growth never more notable than now W. H. I>AV1S. BENTS AND COMMISSIONS. Chicago has many real estate agents, but to no one can an owner entrust property with a greater certainty that it will be care- fully and faithfully looked after than to Mr. W. H. Davis, room 38. 156 Washington street. His established record and his constantly en- larging number of patrons justify this state- ment. Mr. Davis conducts a general real es- tate commission business, and has a arrowing line of rents. While largely on the West Side, his tracts extend over the entire city. No more affable or honorable gentleman, the remarK must be interpolated, adorns his pro- fession in this city. JOHN H. OIILERKING. NO. 150 DEARBORN STREET. Both as owner and agent this active real estate broker has been established in busi- ness here for several years, and is enjoying a trade that is larger each year. CHAPTER XV. 191 SOME SUBURBS LA GRANGE. A CHARMING ENVIRON. If Ghicag-o is the Northwestern sun, La Grange is the moon, rising queenly on the West and glowing in reflected brillance and splendor. A journey to this moon, unlike Jules Verne's, takes only thirty minutes, while no fanciful aeronaut's car but a luxurious Bur- ling-ton and Quiucy coach cleaves the yield- ing space. But metaphor misleads, for this charming environ, perched on the first ridge west of the metropolis, is like unto nothing but its own unapproachable self. What other suburb has such rolling, picturesque vistas? What other such "poems" in taste- ful cottage and mansioned stone, such loves of lawns, such gems of ohurches? Where more flourishing and abundant shade-trees, evergreens, hedges, gardens? Where more solid driveways; 1 Where such drainage, con- fessedly unsurpassed. Whore more pure and crystalline water, the very substratum of the village being a gravel filter? What commun- ity of 2,000 souls more cultured and refined, more steadily growing, and in- stinct with good neighborship? What other suburb has finer quarries of building stone at its very door? About !()'.> new and fine houses were added to LuG range the past season. The markets and schools are of nighest grade. There are two depots in the village, while the railway terminus in towu is that headquarters of ac- cessibility, the Union Depot, Madison street bridge. Mr. F. D. Cossitt, as the original proprietor, still owns a considerable tract of the choicest property, though the demands from purchasers and the favorable prices and terms are rapidly multiplying the lords of the manor. With the integrity of a gentleman as his basal characteristic, and with a rare superstructure of the ameni- ties that make agreeable and pleasant, as well as profitable, the dealings of man with man, the tribute is irrepressible that Mr. Cossitt is the customers' beau ideal. Formerly for many vears Mr. Cossitt was engaged with marked success in the wholesale grocery business in this city, and his reputation and standing among merchants and business men were of the best In the general wreck at the time of the great fire, when so many obliga- tions were compromised and notes extended, Mr. Cossitt promptly paid dollar for dollar, though, believing in home industries, home insurance, placing his policies in Chicago, he lost all. Turning his attention to the develop- ment of his landed estate, the gentleman has devoted a fortune to the enrichment and beautifying of La Grange, and it is with natural pride he now witnesses its flood-tide of prosperity and popularity. As- sociated with him at the LaGrange' head- quarters, rooms 5 and 6, 85 Washington street, are his son, Mr. F. D. Cossitt, Jr. , and Mr. 0. W. Richmond, and they also are ever ready with plats, maps, and a courtesy and eloquence worthy their senior to forward the quest for model suburban homes. MAPE.EWOOD. J. WHITNEY FARLIN, OWNEB. Back in 1838 the 160 acres now embracing this nourishing suburb on the Wisconsin Di- vision of the Northwestern Eailroad, only four miles from the Court House and fifteen minutes ride, were sold for $200 no, not apiece, but ia the lump. One half was sold the same year for the same total an advance of 100 per cent and in 1869 the same prop- erty was bought for $53,000 by Messrs. Wing & Farlin, who named their straightway sub- divided estate Maplewood, in anticipation of the luxuriant maples soon to rise in um- brageous groves echoing the plash of an ar- tesian well that flows forth in quantities of 250 gallons of pure crystal water per minute. Since then sales have been rapid, and larije numbers of houses built, and still the popular interest increases. And no wonder; for are not commutation tickets but 6i% cents, with street car fare to within four blocks only 5 cents? Is not the land high and the soil rich? Are there not the best of graded schools? Does not Humboldt boule- vard, that go.den clasp in the city's girdle of park and drive, pass through the center of the property? While, as to the population, do not the neat, often elegant houses, bespeak its thrifty and eligible character? Indeed, there is a public spirit worthy the situation and assured future of the place. Thus, lake water is about to be supplied, via Lake View, and a rousing mass meeting the other night 192 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. inaugurated still further additions to the ex- ceptional improvements already enjoyed. Here residences of frame are lawful, being outside the fire limits; here no city tax col- lector lurks; here a home may be secured on easy terms and long- payments. Mr. J. Whit- ney Farlin, No. 85 Washington street, who is still the owner of a large part of Maplewood replenished by new purchases as often as diminished sells lots for from $300 to $700. About four hundred lots have been sold, and Mr. Farlin has just added to his tract about forty acres more which will be at once placed on the market. Besides his Maplewood prop- erty, this gentleman, one of our well-known and long established dealers, owns other ex- tensive tracts, as for instance near McCor- mick's reaper works and in Hyde Park. WESTERN SPRINGS. MEDICINAL WATEB CHAKMINQ HOMES. As the title intimates. there is no need to go into Wisconsin to find another Waukesha with waters of refreshment and health; Chi- cago has them at her door in Western Springs. The coming health resort and do not folks repair there already? is but thirty minutes removed from the Burlington and Quincy depot in the heart of the city, a nearness to business that must more and more popular- ize and populate the suburb. The ground is rolling and elevated, and the residents the most substantial and pleasant of people. There are excellent school privileges, with churches that are well sustained. And when it is said that an atmosphere of welcome and high public morals is abroad, and thao further, specially moderate terms are made by Mr. T. C. Hill,the agent, room 1, Lake Side Building, an additional prophesy is seen for a prosperous future of the suburb. Mr. Hill is making sales at figures that make a suburban home within the reach of all, and the coming year promises at quickened ac- tivity. Any one contemplating an out-of- town establishment, where health and nature wait on the resident, should pay a visit to Western Springs and his purpose will be con- firmed. MORGAN PARK-WASHINGTON HEIGHTS ATTBACTIVE SUBUBBS. Uplifted, an island of woodland charm ris- ing twelve miles south of the city from the treeless expanse of the prairie, lies this favorite suburb. For six miles the sylvan ridge extends, and who that has looked down from that eyrie on the outstretch- ing panorama can soon forget it! A natural advantage so marked would of itself have endeared such a spot to Chicagoans whose business hours are level all day with monot- onous low-lands, and very naturally at the evening hour, musical as vesper bell, come the homeward summons, "Come up higher!" But hard business, as well as hygiene and sentiment, has cons mred to exalt this suburb. The Blue Island Land and Building Com- pany, by their agents. Messrs. Hop- kinson & Silva, No. 123 Dearborn street, have made easily accessible, through exceptionally favorable terms, these advantages of a semi-mountainous residence. By consequence few suburbs are so populous as well as popular as "The Heights," and the new influx of fortunates and the new up- building of handsome residences must con- tinue steadily. Certainly more noble site* for a home tnan along Prospect avenue and similar driveways cannot well be imagined, and the coming year must, if possible, sur- pass the past in the activity of new settle- ment. As the seat of a flourishing military academy, with its educational companions of equally foremost rank the Young Ladies' School and the Theological Seminary Mor- gan Park has a reputation not continad to the West. _ PENNOCK. HEAVY MANUFACTURING. This growing manufacturing suburb of Chicago, located five miles northwest of the Court House, in the town of Jefferson, can be reached by trains of the Chicago, Milwau- kee and St Paul, both main line and Pacific branch, and also by two belt roads, one al- ready in operation and the other in contem- plation, its right of way already secured These railroad facilities put the suburb in connection with every Chicago railroad and make it second to none in accessibility and desirability for manufacturing purposes. Fare by steam cars is only 5 cents, and, fur- thermore, the street cars will be extended to Penupck during next summer. The Miltimore Elastic Steel Car Wheel Company is now erecting at this point their immense factory, in which will be employed about 500 men the 1st of May. Other extensive works are now in operation, notably those of the Washourn-Moen manu- factory of barbed wire. The immense factory which was originally built for locomotive works is now partly occupied for manu- facturing purposes, and the unoccupied part will be utilized by May 1, also for manu- facturing. Other manufactories will follow soon, and altogether thousands of people will be employed in this, Chicago's nearest manufacturing suburb. Arrangements will be made to supply the thriving town with lake water, and the streets leading to Pen- nock will be improved, putting it in easy driving communication with the city. This town, comprising 1,200 acres, has been purchased by the mill- ionaire, Homer Pennock, of New York, through Dwight K Tripp, Esq. , of this city, who is managing the property as agent for Mr. Pennock along with the well-known and long-established real estate firm of E. S. Dreyer & Co.. who have successfully handled many sub-divisions around the city, their transactions in this line extending over nine- teen years. There is no doubt that Pennock will be the Bite of the largest steel works in the entire country. Twenty-five brick houses will tje commenced as soon as the weather permits, and trades-people have already eng iged lota on which they will locate their shops and business places next spring. Lots can be secured in Pennock at from $300 upward. according to location, and are actviely in request, as the tide of settlement is rapidly advancing in this direc- tion. There have been fully 400 houses built northwest of the city within the last two years, being out of the fire limits and beyond the reach of citv taxes, and this drift is keep- ing up steadily toward Penuock. An inter- esting sight can be had by taking the Mil- waukee and North avenue street cars to their present terminus and then by walking over to Pennock, the houses CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTUBY. 193 being so numerous as to seem like an extension of the city. It will be a pleasant walk, as sidewalks extend along North and Armitage avenues quite to the rising works, as multitudes of seekers after homes are now proving. To accommodate the growing demand a branch office for the sale of these popular lots will be opened Jan. 15 by E. S. Dreyer & Co. right on the ground opposite the depot. For the convenience and cheapness of building, bricks are made by the company in the immediate neighborhood, and in a certain part of the town only bricks will be used, but the rest can be improved in a manner to suit the taste of settlers. The land is high, dry, beautiful of location and with facilities for perfect drainage. CCJMMINGS. BBOBNT BUT BOOMING. The town of Cummings, named for the Hon. C. R. Cummings, of Brown, Howard oint would not only afford a short outlet from Lake Calumet, but it would drain and redeem several thousand acres of land which is now low and unfit for occupation. Another great benefit aris- ing from this canal would be that in the time of spring freshets it would afford a speedy outlet for the waters of Lake Calumet. At present the waters of that lake have to run south its full length to its mouth, and then run straight north a distance of nearly six miles. Those who best understand the topography of the country regard the canal as an absolute ne- cessity. With a canal through this tract of land, it would be difficult to point out a more favorable place for manufacturers, where all the railroad facilities above named are pres- ent in connection with water transportation to Lake Michigan. A real-estate operator not interested in the property, and whose opinion is entitled to consideration, recently remarked that it had the bright- est future of any tract of land he knew anything about The construction of the canal would seem an improve- ment of the near future. It would make of Lake Calumet, with slight dredging, a harbor of refuge for vessels, and when once com- pleted would probably be accepted by the government as part of the navigable waters in that vicinity. There are different agents of different manufacturing establishments looking at this property with a view of loca- ting there. In close proximity to this subdi- vision is the grand system of docks of the South Chicago Dock Company. Nearly $500.- 000 has been spent in making docks, and it will soon be teeming with lumber yards. The Calumet and Chicago Canal and Dock Company own a large tract immediately northwest of this land. The peculiar situa- tion of Cummings, situated as it is about midway between the mouth of the Calumet River at South Chicago and the plant of the Rolling Stock Company at the Forks, makes it, as it were, right in the highw ay of im- provements. HAVENS WOOD. A BEAUTIFUL VILLAGE. The growth of no suburb on the imme- diate rim of the city has been more re- markable than this beautiful village just over the border to the northward. Houses have sprung up of tasteful architecture the past season, and in such numbers as to show that a pleasant suburban home in a choice neighborhood and among a people notably refined and hospitable is an ambition rapidly developing in this city. The resident alights at the pretty depot within twenty minutes of taking the Northwestern train any one of scores a day a measure of accessibility that must continue to make the forture of Ravenswood in a rushing commu- nity where time is money and life. The public improvements correspond with the exceptionally neat residences, the building record of the year including two additional handsome churches. Here, too, is located the High School of Lake View. It is not strange with such advantages that Ravens- wood is attracting the very best people as residents and that her borders are so rapidly extending. The only wonder is that landed interests, comprising some of the best in the village, may still be obtained at such low figures. WOODLATVN. BETWEEN TWO PABKS. Only thirty-four minutes out on the Illi- nois Central, with its multiplied trains a day, Woodlawn is at least convenient, much more so than the majority of city homes. It is very pleasantly situated between two parks, or, rather, the two divisions of South Park, and when this splendid public improvement is finished according to plans already an- nounced, the prettiest part of it will directiy face Woodlawn. This is known as "Chicago's most promising suburb," and the claim would seem a just one, since it has more than doubled in population the past year, and the improvements are all first- class, the law of the attraction of similars explaining the many arrivals of young busi- ness men with the disposition and ability to build nice residences. Literary and social 194 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTUBT. features are not the least characteristic of the suburb. A purchaser receives especially easy terras, as a rule simply the advance in down payment of a year's rent on the basis of town charges, and then all his payment is annual rent, and BO he just about purchases a home with lovely surrounding's for what he would waste away by living in the city. Mr. F. W. Green, of 42 Borden Block, Dear- born and Randolph streets, makes a specialty of Woodlawn property, and his numerous patrons attest both the honorable dealing of the courteous broker ana the substantial bargains offered, HAMMOND. A YOUNG PITTSBUKQ. This young manufacturing suburb, with a population of some 2,500, and situated on the Grand Calumet River at the State line, has just crowned its astonishing three years growth by a city charter. That the new dig- nity is authorized is shown by the array of chemical works, glove factory, steel spring works, siruo factory, vinegar works, slaugh- ter-house, lumber and coal yards, all estab- lished and affording ample employment in railroad facilities Hammond is Chicago's port ef entry, as it were, for the iron ships of commerce The long drawn fleets sail in over the Western Indiana, the Chicago and Atlantic, the Louisville. New Albany and Chi- cago, the Nickel-plate, the Michigan Central, and no less than three other railroads are contemplating entering Chicago at this point, multiplying still more the number of daily trains each way and the transfer facilities, roundhouses, and car shops. With transporta- tion facilities by land, thus uniquely supple- menting its dock privileges so convenient to the great lakes, Hammond has rightly won its favorite rank with manufacturers, and the time is hastening when the banks of the river for miles east of Hammond will bristle with the chimneys of the manufacturers. The low taxes will speed the day and so will the low prices at which all the available river frontage is being rapidly taken up by capitalists. Near by are rising the grea't works of the United States Rolling Stock Company, and there is assurance that other extensive enterprises comternplate immedi- ate settlement. Back from the river is the very eligible residence section. Mr. James N. Young. 97 Dearborn street, is intimately identified with the landed interests and success of the suburb. CHICAGO 1.AWN. NEAT HOUSES, LOTS FBEE. The past year this thriving suburb in- creased 50 per cent in the number of its in- habitants and its neat and tasteful resi- dences. Chicago Lawn is two and a half miles from the city limits on the Chicago and Grand Trunk Road, and is not thirty minutes' ride from the down-town depot, a fact which stamps it as more accessible than large portions of the city. Fare is only 6 cents. The suburb is a nice clean place, its south- westerly situation exempting it from city currents of air. Its public school-house is a gem of architecture; there is a handsome station house, and the streets are excellently improved and sidewalk^d. The popular pro"- prietor of the town, Mr. John F. Eberhart, Room 81, 161 LaSalle street, has long been identified with the landed and educational in- terests of the city, an experience he has utilized for the advancement of this charm- ing suburb. The residents are Americans, and the amenities of literature and music are cultivated by societies wnich contribute not a little to good neighborship. So uni- formly neat and tasteful are the houses that it is difficult to believe they range in cost from $5,000 down to as low as $1.200, and with a lot thrown in to boot. This gift of land is made to every one who puts up a fair house; toothers the price of lots being $200. FERNWOOD. A BABY JUMBO. Chicago's baby Jumbo would appear to be this large-limbed young suburb which first saw the light only last May. In a span of life numbered by months a score of neat houses have dotted the virgin plateau, and an Ameri- can settlement of as desirable people as could be wished now overlooks Englewood, Grand Crossing, and Pullman, the latter only a mile and a half distant. Fernwood is eleven miles due south of the metropolis, and re- joices in three railroads the Rock Island, the Panhandle, and the Eastern Illinois. Trains even more frequent than the many which now serve the village are to be put on, while commutation tickets cost only $5. 50 a month or ten rides for $1.20. In other respects, too, the inducements to buy a home here are overwhelming. It takes but $100 paid down, and after that monthly installments, some as low as $15, in whole cost of a wide lot in charming and healthful surroundings, and with a gem of a house reaching only from $1,100 to $1,400. The Superintendent of Improvements is S. Montgomery Smith, while the humanitarian erodf ather and patron of these homes for the many is Mr. E. L. Gil- lette, Fernwood's headquarters being room 9, 142 Dearborn street. A call there will meet the most favorable anticipations, while a run down to Fernwood itself will discover another "Auburn, loveliest village of the plain." A street car company has been or- ganized to run to Pullman and South Chi- cago, and Fernwood must grow more and more in favor and convenience as a desirable residence. KENSINGTON. HOMIS ON T.TTRirttAT, TEBM8. This town is favorably located at the junc- tion of three railroads, and adjoins Pullman on two sides. The business and resident pop- ulation find liberal and constant support from the Pullman Car Works and Foundry, and the other extensive industries that sur- round the town, while the general health of the people is universally good. CL B. Sa-w CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. yer, 127 Dearborn street, Chicago, is largely interested in property here, which is offered upon liberal terms. AN IMPORTANT DISCOVERY. A. NEW FUEL. A company with a capital o. $1,000,000 has recently been incorporated for the pur- pose of working- and developing an invention which will doubtless prove to be among the most important of any brought out in this inventive age. Beference is made to the process of vaporizing crude petroleum and nsing the resulting vapor as a fuel, after the method as discovered by Mr. O. D. Orvis. It has already been demonstrated to be of far greater value than was ever hoped for or ex- pected of by the inventor. This discovery of Mr. Orvis is something new in practical ci- ence, and, from the practical uses to which It has already been put, certainly seems destined to create a revolution in the use of fuel for steam purposes, from the fact that a superior quality of heat is produced at a reduced cost. It has been proven in addi- tion that it prod urea the purest and most in- tense heat known, as well. From these facts it can be readily seen that the process must be invaluable for ail kinds of smelting and puddling- furnaces, as a much better quality of iron is produced than can possibly be made by the old process. Glass manufactur- ers will'be able to make a superior quality of their product, equal too, if not superior, to that heretofore so largely imported from foreign countries. This process of Mr. Orvis' has the great merit of simplicity, and can be easily applied to locomotives.' tugs, steam- ships, and stationary boiler furnaces of every description, and while in operation the chim- ney is absolutely smokeless. There seems to be no limit to the variety of industries to which this invention caa be applied, and with great, lasting benefit The iron and glass industries, however, will doubtless receive the greatest financial bene- fit. That which the general public are most interested in lies in the fact that by this new process of generating steam the smoke prob- lem is solved. As one of our leading con- temporaries says in a recent issue: "When this new company is able to rree Chicago from the pall of smoke which hangs over the city, and our railroads run smokeless engines free from soot, cinders, and noxious gases, then humanity will be benefited, and the Or- TIS Smokeless Hydro-carbon Furnace Com- pany will be styled a public benefactors." toKESSUTFORFOOD ABSOLUTELY PURE. The most prominent Manufacturing Establishment of Elkhart, Ind., Is the Muzzy Starch Works, making a Specialty of Muzzy 's Corn and Sun Glass Starch, and that of "BUT ONE QUALITY. THE BEST." They have' a large and growing trade, having increased their works the past season, giving them capac.ty for ten million pounds per annum, which is sold by nearly all of the wholesale and retail grocers of Chicago and the Middle and Western States. OHAPTEK XVL FOR SPECULATORS. METROPOLITAN GRAIN AND STOCK EX- CHANGE. The speculative business of Chicago, which can hardly be computed by figures, is di- vided, rather through the result of caprice than upon any business principle which can be denned, between the operators on the regular Board of Trade, the Open Board, and the exchanges which hire the so-ealled "Board of Trade alley." These "ex- changes" are not smiled upon as a rule by the Board of Trade gentle- men, perhaps because the great corporation which has its headquarters in the Chamber of Commerce is rather anxious to entirely control all the vast volume of traffic in grain and provisions, either for present or future delivery, which flows into this wonderful mart, and possibly because mod - ern speculation does not fittingly reverence the great corporation, and propose to seek a market wherein it can be most advantageously found. The Metropolitan Exchange claims to be able to fill whatever bill the specu- latively inclined may call for at a less than a reasonable charge, and with a posi- tive assurance, backed by a legal guarantee, that they will perform what they promise. Through their good offices people can readily avail themselves of the wonderful oppor- tunities which Chicago offers for money- making by speculation, without any unplea's- ant forebodings that good money is to be sent in pursuit of bad, after the former has gone hopelessly astray. The Metropolitan Exchange, the subject of this brief notice and a trade review notice in a leading Chicago daily must ot necessity be brief was incorporated and organized under the strict statutes of the State of Illinois, and can boast of an entirely le- gal existence. It possesses a paid-up capital of $100,000 and an un- blemished financial reputation. That it is really above reproach is evidenced by the fact that the First National Bank of Chicago, Preston & Co. , bankers, of Detroit, Mich. , and the Chatham Street National Bank of New York City, all permit their names to appear upon the list of references which is appended to its announcements. This Exchange is the Chicago trading place for the million, the bazar where the commodities of a dis- trict of country larger than some empires which have cut a figure in history are daily vended for the benefit of the general public, not for a favored few. It is not quite easy to explain how this largest concern of the kind in Chicago, probably in the world, can offer induce- ments to customers which the regular or the Open Boards of Trade would find it difficult, if not impossible to duplicate, nor could an explanation be given in the space now at the writer's disposal Some sug- gestions can, however, be made whicn must pass for what they are worth. In the first place, a membership on the regular, the Open, or the Call Boards of Chicago is an expensive luxury without which a person cannot do business, except through a broker in connection with those corporations. The operator who has to pay a high figure for the privilege of dealing can hardly (other things being equal) compete with the man who, with the best or very nearly the best facilities for speculative dealing at his dis- posal, has nothing or next to nothing to pav for the right to exercise his skill, abi ; ty, and knowledge of the market for the benefit of himself or his customers. It must not be supposed because these com- parisons and suggestions are made that there is any disposition on the part of the writer to underrate the impor- tance of the great mercantile organizations of Chicago, to whose wisdom, liberality, and enterprise the Garden City owes such an enormous debt, but it is nevertheless true that the Board of Trade and its auxiliaries, while possessed of almost boundless re- sources and a kind of knowledge which can be coined into current money, does not, be- cause it cannot from the nature of things afford to the million an opportunity to do pro rata what those who have millions are continually doing, and accumulating other millions by their transactions. The Metro- politan Exchange makes an especial point of possessing all needful business facilities for operating" in grain, seeds, and provisions, and stocks in large and small quantities. It has direct telegraphic communication with all the leading business centers, and the prin- CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY. 197 ciples upon which it trades, and the option deals, which form such a prominent feature of its business, are substantially the same as those with which any regular Board of Trade speculator is familiar. There is this impor- tant modification, however, of Board of Trade rules at the Metropolitan Ex- change: The trader at the latter place is only responsible for the amount of margin hazarded on each deal, and those who desire to limit their losses to a certain sum will in all instances be guaranteed against any loss in excess of that amount. This distinctive characteristic manner of trading on the Ex- change deprives speculative business of its most objectionable and dangerous element. The "Metropolitan" is especially desirous of securing in every city, village, hamlet, and farm which contribute but a drop of the life- blood of trade to Chicago the commercial heart of the civilized world a live man to act as broker for his benefit and its own. For the benefit of this class it has lately made the following suggestions and statements in a circular letter: You will please note our references here- with. With our capital and standing, direct telegraphic communication from our office to all points, enabling us to give immediate and quick replies to all messages, and by giv- ing each and all orders our personal atten- tion, our facilities for handling out-of-town orders cannot be equaled. The principle of trading and the options dealt in are the same as on the regular Board of Trade, with the exception that the trader is only liable for the amount of margin placed on each deal. Those who desire to limit their losses to a certain amount are guaran- anteed against further loss by us, and are not subject to the sweeping changes of a wild or cornered market, with the liability of having their commission merchants draw on them for an amount that they had supposed there was no possibility of losing. We more especially call the attention of brokers send- ing orders to the regular board on commis- sion or salary to our system; to those we offer superior advantages. We will allow much better terms, with no liability to them, than any other houses. Please note and write to our references. THE PUBLIC GRAIN AND STOCK EX CHANGE was organized under the laws of the State of Illinois in the year 1880, for the purpose of affording the best and most reliable facilities for the purchase and sale of grain, provis- ions, and stocks for immediate or future de- livery. Chicago has been known for years as the sepculative center of the world. It is the vast drawing depot into which is gathered the grain and meat products of the great American Northwest, and from hence these two essentials of living are distributed, not only to the cities of this continent but to the leading capitals of Europe also. The advantage which this Exchange offers for trading, either in large or small quantities, may be briefly enumerated as follows: It has special wires from its office to all parts of the country, both East and West, and are connected with first-class correspondents in all large cities, who have formerly been doing business through or with the Board of Trade, and who now represent the Public Grain and Stock Exchange, recog- nizing their superior facilities for doing bus'i- ness. With these correspondents a dealer can buy or sell as low as 1,000 bushels of grain, fifty barrels of pork, fifty tierces of lard, and twenty-five shares of stock, or larger quan- tities if desired, on margins as low as 1 cent a bushel on grain, 25 cents a barrel on pork, 8 cents a tierce on lard, and $1 per share on stocks, and he is only responsible for the amount of money which he may order placed Upon a trade, and cannot lose beyond that amount, and while the market goes his way his profits are unlimited. He can do his busi - ness with the Public Grain and Stock Ex- change at the same commission and with no expense for telegraphing, or, in other words, can trade just the same as though he was on the Board of Trade in person. If he places his business with a broker on the Board of Trade, in the first place he will be obliged to put up five cents a bushel on grain, and the same proportion on provisions and stocks, and will be liable for additional margins wherever the market goes. He also cannot purchase less than 5,000 bushels of grain, or 250 packages of pork, that being the small- est quantities dealt in on the board. The customer is always able to get more satisfactory prices in trading with this Ex- change, for the reason that the order is ex- ecuted the moment it is received in our office, providing it is not limited, and then it is filled providing the price is reached. THE B1RDSELL SPRING YAGONS. BIRDSELL MANUFACTURING COMP'Y SOUTH B^JfD, ItfD. 198 CHICAGO'S FIRST HALF CENTURY A NOTABLE PIONEER HOUSE. The oldest ship-chandlery house in Chicago and the one best known to the marine service of our great lakes was founded in 1840 by George A. Robb, was succeeded in 1845 by Payson & Robb, and then in 1850 by Hub- bard & Robb. George A. Robb died in 1857 in Havana, Cuba, and the name of the firm was changed to Gilbert Hubbard & Co. , continu- ing under that name twenty-five years. Gil- bert Hubbard died in May. 1881. Jan. 1, 1882. the firm was changed to its present name of George B. Carpenter & Co. For a whole generation it has been a representa- tive house, distinguished for enterprise, for integrity, for financial responsibility, and for doing its full share in building up Chicago and in promoting the welfare of its citizens. GEORGE B. CAKPENTEB & CO., as successors to Gilbert Hubbard & Co. , are at present the largest house, and are enjoying 1 a larger business in their line than any other house in this market Their stock includes complete lines of cordage, cotton duck, tackle-blocks, twines of all kinds for any and all uses, among which may be especially mentioned twines and cords for horse-nets and hammocks, for grain-binding harvesters, gilling and seine twines for fishermen's use, etc. ; asbestos materials of all kinds, asbestos paints, and asbestos roofings, packings, cot- ton waste, lubricating oils, and a general line of mill and railway supplies. In manu- factured goods they deal extensively in tents wagon-covers, awnings, and anything that can be made of, or furnished with, cotton duck. As buyers from, and selling agents for, the manufacturers direct in their several lines, this linn are in a position to make prices at all times in competition with the lowest. Illustrated catalogues and price-lists are mailed free upon application. TELE POPULAR NEW PEORIA HOUSE. Travelers visiting the "Second City" will find it decidedly to their advantage to make their headquarters at the popular new Peoria House, upon which $30,000 has recently been expended in improvements. This is one of the best managed hotels in the West, and one that charges reasonable rates. ' All the modern improvements for the comfort and convenience of guests are employed, and no hostelry in Peoria affords better fa- cilities for reaching all parts of the city be- ing located just opposite the Court House, and on the street railway line that leads to all the large manufacturing institutions. The tables are as well supplied as the best Chi- cago hotels, and in other respects the new Peoria Hotel equals its most pretentious ri- vals in the great city on the lake. Messrs. J. S. Clarke & Son, the proprietors, are vet- ejans in the business, and personally look after their patrons, with whom the Peoria HOUM is always well filled. GEO. E. BROWN & CO., AURORA, Kane County, HI., IMPORTERS AJfD BREEDERS. Cleveland Bays, English Draft, Clydesdale Horses, ISO STALLIONS ANN MABES ON HAND. A larpe importation just received and others to fol- low, carefully selected from the best studs in Enprixnd. Mention The Inter Oceae. HOLSTEM WE HAVE THE CHAMPION HERD, Hare > T erer Been Beate in Ten Years at Lead- ing Fairs in the West. Our Holsteins are se- lected personally from the most celebrated herds of deep milkers in Holland. All ages, male or femalf, on hand. Send for our Il- lustrated Catalogue, and - mention The Inter Ocean. i^v^v^^ JUNK SO, Capitalized, including bonded debt, not to exceed $3G,OOO per mile double track, $2O,OOO single track. Of interest to the Capitalist, Merest, Mechanic, Farmer Clerk and Day-Laborer. ___Somewhat of an Innovation on the Old Plan of Building Railroads. FACE VALUE OF A SHARE OF STOCK IS $5O. only through S3S.T ^ to speak, until paid out by their loeal trea, ^. a ^ c r r < i 1 !: v d ' s a : icl Treasurer, and will be orcanized by Each Board will have a President, Vice President 1 ^^f^JSon o* FHTB or more citizens who have the President of the road or his special deputies upon ^^ition or * ivji ^or m instaUme nt subscribed lor and paid first installment on 10 or sn w ^> b e \o 8 el all stocfcs offered in nd carry on the wort until the system is completed. BY THE I>EOI>L,K ANI> FOR THE PEOPLE. i, .r.. , e hr.d - hy Stockholders of This Company Will Be Protected in Their Inyestment. First-The principles are extended alike to ail-to the people ol the natlon-and $2.50 secur.s a ^-^^^Sg^^SK^ ^^^ debt. .re to For lull information address THE PEOPLE'S RAILWAY COMP'Y OF AMERICA, NEW YOBK CITY, >'. Y. CHICAGO, ILL., I SAN FBANCISCO, CAL., 328 Montgomery St. DETROIT, MICH., 17 Telegraph Block. EM! KENNEDY, Pres't. THE MINING INDUSTRY H PROMOTED BY BENJAMIN W. GOODHUE & CO., This firm have made a specialty of promoting mining interests by the sale of properties and the organization of companies, and developing their own properties. They have a large and influential connection, and have been very successful in advancing the mining interests in an equitable and le- gitimate manner, giving satisfaction to all with whom they have had dealings. Messrs, Goodhue & Co. have fine properties for sale in different States and Territories, and invite investigation. Prominent among the many interests they have promoted may be mentioned the NEVADA MINING AND MILLING COMPANY, OF CHICAGO. This company was organized under the la-w-s of the State of Illinois about three years ago, with a capital of $250,000, limited the stock fully paid and non-assessable. The efforts of the company, from its organization up to the present time, have been devoted to th acquisition of mining properties, and in this it has been very successful. The company is free from all debts or incumbrances of any kind. The stock is held by a few in- dividuals, and, consequently, there is none on the market. The purpose of the managers is evidently to prove that mining, when conducted like any other legitimate business, can be made interesting and profitable, therefore they have been slow and cautious in every movement, with a firm determination to make no mistakes, and it pleases us to say in their behalf that, thus far, none have been made. THE HUMBOLDT NICKEL AND COPPEE MINING COMPANY Has twelve nickel and copper properties, all located in Churchill and Humboldt Counties, Nevada. The ledges are very large, and the Monarch and British Queen Mines are the most remarkable de- posits of nickel known to have been discovered. The ledges are four hundred feet wide, three thou- sand feet long, and average from 39 per cent up as high as 65 per cent nickel. The Lake Erie Copper is blue carbonate of copper, opened by a tunnel; ledge fifteen feet wide; averages 20 per cent metal. The Lake Huron Copper is carbonate and array copper. The Lake Champlain Copper is opened well with tunnels, and ready to stope out; ore averages 30 per cent copper. The Lake Superior Copper is a large chimney of ore. upward of three hundred feet in diameter, opened by a sixty-feet shaft. There is over $6,000 worth of work already done on these properties, and as soon as the 40-ton smelter (for which the company has negotiated) arrives the work of reducing the ores may at once begin. The Electric Light No. 1, Arctic Mines, Electric Light No. 2, yield 20 per cent copper. The Himlar and Empress of India Mines carry a large percentage of Nickel and cobalt. The following well-known gentlemen are the officers: Joseph Schroeder, President; George Love- lock, Vice President ; N. Whitman, Secretary ; F. D. Gray, Treasurer. THE MONTEZUMA CONSOLIDATED MINING COMPANY, OF NEVADA, Was incorporated under the Illinois State laws, Nov. 13, 1882. The property of this company is sit- uated in Larrabee Mining District, Elko County, Nevada, forty-five miles south of the Central Pacific .Railroad, twelve miles east of the Eureka and Palisade Railway, with good wagon roads direct to the mines from Blackburn or Box Spring stations on the E. and P. Railway. These mines join a property of the Nevada Mining and Milling Company, and are convenient to railroad communication. They are located on a small mountain which is covered with abundance of timber, another important advantage for mining purposes. SCHROEDER MINING DISTRICT. In this district Mr. Goodhue and his associates own eight very valuable properties. The ore averages from $30 to $105 per ton in gold and silver, and 25 per cent lead. Also valuable copper mines, from which there have been several car loads shipped to the smelting worKs of Lamb, Goodhue & Co. The ores shipped to this tirm are the first shipped in bulk from Nevada to Chicago. GOODHUE & SCHROEDER SMELTING WORKS, PALISADE, NEVADA. Located at the junction of the Central Pacific and Eureka and Palisade Railroads. The location is in the midst of a vast field of rich gold and silver ores. It is a well-known fact that the members of this firm own a large number of rich properties in the State of Nevada, from whicff they will draw their supply of ore to feed their furnaces. We are pleased to thus notice the extensive properties of Messrs. Goodhue & Co., and do not hes- itate to indorse them as earuest, practical, reliable men, to whom mining is a business, and by whom it is worked as a business. CITY HOTEL Corner State and Sixteenth Sts., Chicago. W. F. ORCUTT, - - - Proprietor Formerly proprietor of old City Hotel, Corner Lake and State, in ^ c and 1854. 100 TERMS, - AM) DEPOTS. ______ 2.00 Per Day. CURIOSITY JHOP," In reply to many inquiries, we are able to announce that we are now fully supplied with the Volumes of the CURIOSITY SHOP ThelnterOcean CLUB LIST. 188O 9 .'81, '82, 9 83 These volumes are sent postage paid on re- . 25c per vol. ,5Oc per vol. ceipt of price. Bound in Paper Bound in Cloth All volumes before 188O are out of print. The WEEKLY INTER OCEAN one year and ALL FOUR ol the above volumes, 91.8&. The WEEKLY INTER OCEAN and ANY ONE of the volumes, #1.25. HOW IT IS APPRECIATED. To the Editor of The Inter Ocean. ,.,, , oo IOWA CITY, Iowa, April 18, 188.-!. Permit me, an old subscriber of THE INTER OCEAN. to express my appreciation of the 'Curiosity Shop, and especially the full index. As a student the work has been of sreat value to me, answering at once ana to the point questions political and historical wnicn are not found in standard works, because written be- fore the events occurred. Please send to my address the "Curiosity bhop for 1882. Inclosed find i!5e. Very respec ^ u ^ s ' GRIMM . THE WEEKLY INTER OCEAN is a large eight-page paper 4 seven columns to the page), with frequent supplements, and i* sent to sub- scribers lor One Dollar, payable in advance. Remittances should be made by postal order %a < mpl t e r c^p\e t 8 te of THE WEEKLY INTER OCEAN" furnished on application. Address THE INTER OCEAN, Chieago. With MONTHLIES. Weekly. Harper's Magazine S4.5O Atlantic Monthly *- 65 Century Magazine... 4-65 International Review 5.OO American Agriculturist 2-OO Godey's Lady's Book .5O The St. Nicholas 3.5O Wide Awake 3 - Our Little Ones 3 - 8 Phrenological Journal 2.90 Chicago Medical Journal 5.OO St. Louis Magazine 1.8O United States Medical Investi- gator *-f> Arthur's Home Magazine 2.5O Popular Science Monthly 5.2O Breeder's Live Stock Journal. 1-8O WEEKLIES. Harper's Young People SS2.2O Harper's Bazar 4.5O Harper's Weekly *- 6 New 'York Ledger 3.8O The Advance 3.25 Rural New-Yorker 2.75 Prairie Farmer 3 -* Western Rural 2 - 6O Littell's Living Age - 8 American Bee Journal 3.00 Farmers' Review 1.9O With Semi- Weekly . $5.75 5.8U 5.8w 6.50 4.OU 3.70 4.OO 6.35 3.OO 5.65 4.OO 6.35 3.25 3.70 5.70 5.8O 5.OO 4.5O 4.20 3.50 3.8' 9 In all cases the order and ir for both publications must * at the same time. THE INTER OCEAN, THE LITTLE DETEC Or Housekeepers' Scales, a, usef with Weekly Inter Ocean, With. &em,i- Weekly Inter Oc* ^ r- State and Washington Sts. Dry Goods, Cloaks, Costumes, Shawls, Furs, Woolens, Notions, Men's, Women's, and Children's Furnishing Goods, Carpetings, Curtain Materials, Tapestries, Furniture Coverings, And Goods for "Home Art Decorations." Largest and Most Complete Lines. We are Sole Agents for the United States for the Celebrated "ALEXANDRE" Kid Gloves, The best Kid Glove Made ! And we make a SPECIALTY of producing private designs in Carpets, Rugs, and Upholstering Goods. To correspond With architectural features of rooms, and of Furnishing Churches, Theaters, Hotels, and Horn* Inspection Invited! TWO Great Cities Joined. Chicago! SEA TWO Great Stores Therein. SEA'S CHICAGO FRIENDS Will be gratified but not surprised to know that our new Trade Palace in Minneapolis has become as popular there as have Sea's Six Floors in Chicago. SEA'S MINNEAPOLIS FRIENDS Will be pleased at the announcement that our sales in their city have been three times greater than we had anticipated, and own- ^g our own premises (the largest and finest the Northwest), possessing unequbled fa- *les, and with experienced buyers in all s of the world, it is not hard for us to <5 that money goes farthest at Sea's. >EA & CO., Chicago; Mcollet av. & Ninth st. 3 Minneapolis. EVERY SPOOL WARRANTED PERFECT. SMOOTH, STRONG. FULL LENGTH. Ladies, if you want the BEST SEWING SILK made, call for "CORTICELLJ 2O7 and 2O9 Fifth Avenue, Chic; H. W. HARE, Manager. Acknowledged by all aa being the Most Direct and Best Boute between the Bast and the "West, Northwest and Southwest. TWO FAST EXPRESS TRAINS DAILY BETWEEN" Chicago and Peorla, Davenport, Des Moines, Council Bluffia, Kansas City, Leavenworth, and Atchison. Best Line to all points in California, Colorado, Ne-w Mexico, Arizona, Kansas, Nebraska, Utah, Montana, Washington Territory, British Columbia, Nevada, the Black Hills, Wyoming, and Southern Dakota. TKE EQUIPMENT OF THIS QBEAT BOUTE WMrBT^A (TRS MAI^IFICE^T DAY CARS, BEAUTIFUL REdLEOTG CHAIB CARS, PULLMAN PALACE SLEEPING CARS, AND OTTB O'WIS' WORLD-FAMOUS DINING CABS. All Through PaMwcRers oarrled on Pat Express Train* Ticket* for nlfi at all Prtaxnj Office* in the United States and Canada. R. R. CABLE, Px**** and Oeneral ICaaAger. E. ST. JOHN, Oen'l HclMt aad Pa ~m