779 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY
CHAPTER II.
MANUFACTURES. -LABOR ASSOCIATIONS. -STATISTICS. -STRIKES.
In common with all places whose main dependence for prosperity and growth has been assumed advantages for local trade and commercial traffic, Toledo for the first 25 ,years of its existence relied chiefly upon the same, and more especially the latter source, for strength. Its exceptional geographical position, with reference to the great producing empire of the Northwest, together with its early possession of superior Canal and Railway facilities, was well calculated to induce such reliance. To that consideration was added the fact, that for the period named, the matter of manufactures, as a source of local growth, was hardly thought of at the West, for the reason that under the prevailing policy of the Government, the main dependence of the country for such supplies, was upon foreign markets; while the West, looking almost wholly to agriculture for development, recognized the Eastern States as the only section in which manufactures could be successfully prosecuted. Such, substantially, was the condition as to that department of industry at the West, until the emergency from War by the rebellion of Southern States, in 1861, forced a state of things entirely new, with necessities for new recourses never before contemplated. The sudden and extraordinary demands of the Government for military supplies, largely consisting of clothing, made necessary a home supply of these. To promote this, the Tariff was radically changed and made liberally protective in its provisions as to home manufactures. Such guaranty of protection from competition of foreign capital and cheaper labor, added to the large demands of the Government, at once stimulated manufacturing industry to unwonted activity; and the result was, that while the resources of labor were so largely drawn upon by the Army and Navy, the home demand for manufactures was, to an extent greater than ever before, met by a home supply. While the increase in product was great at the East, the West felt the new stimulus, and manufacturing in various departments was developed throughout that section. Thus, born of the emergency of War, that great industrial interest not only did not subside with the cause of its development, but continued its activity and growth throughout the West.
Toledo would have been more prompt to avail herself of the favorable condition referred to, but for unabated confidence in what were known as its "local " or " natural advantages" as a commercial point. These, so valuable on many accounts, in time came to be found delusive and disappointing, from the fact that the revolution in the modes of handling property in transit gradually reduced the proportionate demand for labor, until the increase in traffic brought little or no increase in the number of persons required for its disposal. The result was, that dependence upon that source for permanent growth had to be surrendered and another found.
Fortunately, the emergency thus recognized was coincident with the development of Toledo's relations to the great mineral resources of Central Ohio and Lake Superior regions, and more especially the former. As these were improved by new Railway facilities, the importance of Toledo as a manufacturing point was gradually made known and gradually improved, until the City has come to prominence and success as a manufacturing point. In such advance, it has been greatly favored, in that the extraordinary channels of trade possessed, have conferred advantages in the distribution of local manufactures enjoyed by very few points in the entire country. It will not be practicable, within the limits allowed in this volume, to undertake anything like a full showing of the variety or the extent of the manufacturing interests of Toledo. It must suffice here, to give of' facts and details sufficient to indicate something of the progress already attained and of the prospect for the future. We shall begin by giving soule account of the early manufacturing interests of the City.
TOLEDO CAR MANUFACTORY.-Railway Cars were manufactured in Toledo for several years, the quality of which stood high in the market. The first work of' the kind, was in 1851, by Wason & Co., who brought the several parts of cars partially completed, and here perfected them and put up and finished the same. The first Car Works, for the entire manufacture of Cars, was that of A. J. Field and Wm. Wilmington, who commenced operations in 1853, and continued the same until the death of Major Field, in 1858. The business was then assumed by the Toledo Car Company, Composed of Mr. Wilmington, John H. Whitaker and C. B. Phillips. That Company prosecuted the work actively until 1872, when operations were suspended.
WILMINGTON'S GRAIN MACHINE.-In July, 1859, trial was made of a Harvesting Machine,
780 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
invented and built by William Wilmington, of Toledo, which, at the same operation, cut and threshed Grain, dropping the filled bags from the rear end of the machine as it passed through the field. It was capable of cutting eight acres per day of Wheat averaging 25 bushels to the acre, at an expense of $11.25, or $2.00 per acre less than the ordinary Machine. Afterwards, Mr. Wilmington exhibited and tested his invention in Porter County, Indiana, where it operated again with entire satisfaction. With such practical success, however, it was not, as Mr. Wilmington had apprehended might be the case, adapted to this climate, where Grain can not be taken direct from the field and bulked, without liability to injury. In California and the Western portion of South America it would no doubt have been a success in application, as it certainly was in operation.
TOBACCO MANUFACTURE.-In 1836, Calvin Bronson commenced the manufacture of FineCut Chewing Tobacco at Centerville, St. Joseph County, Michigan: At that time, and for nearly 10 years thereafter, his was the only establishment of the kind in Michigan, outside of Detroit. It was a "small beginning" he made, at that early day, with limited capital and facilities of the simplest sort, his power being limited to " one horse," whose steady circuit moved the rude cutting-machine in use. What was lacking in material and resources, however, Mr. Bronson made up in skill and push; and it was not long ere he had wide reputation for his manufacture, and corresponding trade, which called for increased facilities and enlarged market. Hence, it was, that in 1851, he removed to Toledo, which City then fairly was recognized as an important commercial point. Here he established what came to be known as the Bronson Tobacco Works. His success was mainly due to the superior qualities of what was known as his "Bright Fine-Cut Tobacco," which soon became especially popular. His trade extended gradually, until in 1865, he paid on his sales a Government tax of $250,322.89-the value of the goods then sold having been $560,400. The leading product at that time was the " Bright Chewing," beside which "C. Bronson's Indian Brand" was prominent. At first his sales were made mainly through salesmen and peddlers, who traveled with wagons ; but such means in time were largely supplanted by the more modern facilities of " Traveling Men " and Railway transportation. Mr. Bronson was not a little aided by a native tact and skill in mechanics, which naturally helped to new methods and means in cutting and handling Tobaccos. His first factory in Toledo was on Water Street, foot of Lagrange, where he remained until 1856, when he removed to 118128 Summit Street, where he occupied a building with a frontage of 80 feet and depth of 150 feet and five stories high. Subsequently he erected a large building at the corner of Summit and Lynn Streets, to which, in 1873, the establishment was removed. It contained 11 first-class Cutting-Machines, with a daily capacity of 11,000 pounds of Chewing, or 18,000 pounds of Smoking Tobacco, all operated by a single engine of about 20-horse power. January 1,1866, Mr. Bronson retired from active business. The establishment passed into the hands of David Bronson, a brother, and Charles R. Messinger, a son-in-law, both whom had become practically familiar with the business. The firm of Bronson & Messinger continued until 1873, when Mr. Messinger became sole proprietor. He continued the business until 1886, when he was succeeded by Wm. H. Harrison, the present proprietor.
In October, 1862, Henry J. Chase and Frank P. Isherwood engaged in the manufacture of Fine-Cut, Plug and Smoking Tobacco, at 18'2 and 184 Summit Street. In the following November Wilson S. Isherwood became a partner, and in February, 1863, Leander Burdick was added, and the firm of Chase, Isherwood & Co. formed. In January, 1866, the establishment was removed to the new quarters meantime built for its use at 14 Broadway, opposite the Oliver House, which continues in use. In 1873, W. S. Isherwood retired from the firm : and January 1, 1880, Walter J. Chase succeeded Henry J. Chase, as partner. This arrangement continued until January 1, 1887, when Mr. Burdick withdrew, leaving the business in the hands of F. P. Isherwood and W. J. Chase. When the business of the establishment had been prosecuted for some time, the manufacture of Plug was given up. Operations are now confined to Fine-Cut Chewing and Smoking, and Granulated Smoking. The latter is a new variety, prepared by a machine originating with the house. The supplies of stock for Chewing come from Kentucky and Southern Ohio, and those for Smoking from the same sections and North Carolina. The amount of Tobacco manufactured has been about the same for the past 16 or 18 years, the chief variation being in prices, which have been controlled by the Internal Revenue tax, which has undergone several changes. The highest was 40 cents per pound on Fine-cut and 30 on Smoking. It is now uniform at eight cents. The largest amount of tax paid by this house in one year was that of 1870, when it reached $268,753.92. The highest prices for its manufactures were-70 cents per pound for Smoking and $1.35 for Chewing. The establishment now has 80 employes. Its trade is carried on almost wholly through traveling salesmen.
CALVIN BRONSON was born in Suffield, Connecticut, December 17, 1806. His ancestors were among the earlier settlers in that section. His facilities for obtaining an education,
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were limited to the advantages supplied by the Public Schools of the Town. When he was 17 years of age, he became anxious for the advent of the active business life which was his chief ambition. He accordingly left home and made his way to Springfield, Massachusetts, where he entered a leading mercantile house, as a Clerk, his wages being his board. At the close of one year of apprenticeship there, he went to New York City, and thence to Augusta, Georgia. Here he remained for 18 months, at the end of which time he returned to the North, satisfied that in that section lay more certainly the field adapted to his ideas and sympathies. During these changes, he had studiously improved opportunities for obtaining practical knowledge of correct business principles and methods, meanwhile making friends among those with whom he came in contact. He early learned the invaluable lesson of self-reliance, industry, integrity and economy, to which, in subsequent years, he was mainly indebted for whatever of success attended him. Coming to the West in 1830, he located at Avon, Lorain County, Ohio, and there engaged in general merchandise trade, remaining until 1836, when be removed to Centerville, St. Joseph County, Michigan, and resumed mercantile trade, which he continued for two years. In 1847, Mr. Bronson made the change, which, more than anything else, gave success to his business life. At that early day, in an obscure Western Village, with limited knowledge of the business and more limited facilities, he commenced the manufacture of Tobacco. His simple machinery, driven by horse-power, was in striking contrast with that which subsequent invention provided. His was the pioneer establishment West of Detroit for the manufacture of fine-cut Chewing Tobacco, the old articles of hard-pressed plug and twist then being almost universal amid difficult to supplant with the new kind. His product at first, could be sold only by peddlers, traveling from place to place with wagons. His trade, however, soon extended gradually, and he continued operations at Centerville until 1851, when, desirous of a more adequate point for the sale of his manufacture, he removed to Toledo, and resumed operations on an enlarged scale. There his trade, from the start, was encouraging, and rapidly extended, more than meeting his expectations. His limited resources for capital were soon supplemented by liberal gains from trade, and his facilities were enlarged accordingly. Ere long his factory gave employment to 150 to 175 hands, with no less than "cutting-machines and constant use. Mean time, the name of Bronson's Tobacco," became familiar through out the Western States, and everywhere with the favor which acceptable trade alone can secure. In 1866, with the fruits of a business activity tar beyond the average of man, he turned his large establishment and trade over to younger hands, by whom it has been continued for several years. Few men have made their way through a life of equal activity and devotion to business, with that of Mr. Bronson ; and still less of his contemporaries have been able to reach the close of their fourscore years of life with the vigor of mind and body which he yet enjoys. For such possession, he is indebted to a sound constitution and the practice throughout of physical activity and habits of care and prudence. Since retiring from the Tobacco trade, he has turned his attention chiefly to the improvement of real estate judiciously purchased, including the erection of different substantial and valuable business blocks. He has also invested liberally in the promotion of manufacturing enterprises in the City. Mr. Bronson was married with Miss Lucretia C. Sutphen, at Centerville, Michigan, June 26, 1837. Mrs. Bronson was born January 18, 1811, in Hunterdon County, New Jersey.
TOLEDO GAS LIGHT AND COKE COMPANY. The first step toward the manufacture of Gas in Toledo, was taken on the 25th of September, 1853, when the Toledo Gas-Light and Coke Company was organized, the corperators being V. H. Ketcham, James Deveau, Matt. Johnson, Thomas H. Hough and D. B. Smith. February 20, 1854, books for subscription of stock were opened at the office of M. R. Waite, the capital being $100,000. April 4th following, Directors were chosen, as follows: M. it. Waite, Matt. Johnson, Wm. Baker, John H. Whitaker and D. B. Smith, who organized by electing Matt. Johnson as President; J. H. Whitaker, Treasurer; and D. B. Smith, as Secretary. Mr. Waite served as Director until his appointment as Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, in January, 1874. Mr. Whitaker remained in the directory until his death, in 1882. Mr. Baker was succeeded in 1856 by George Spencer, who remained as such until his death in 1882. J. W. May, as Secretary, succeeded Mr. Smith in February, 1857. Since that time, the general officers have been as follows:
President-George Spencer, 1856-66; Truman H. Hoag, 1866-70; S. M. Young, 1870-88. Vice President- J. H. Whitaker, 1866-70 ; George Spencer, 1870-82; H. S. Walbridge, 1882-88. Secretary-J. W. May, 1857-65 ; C. N. Yeager, 1865-71 ; Richard Day, 1871-88.
The works of the Company were constructed by Lemuel H. Davis, who also laid mains, in 1854. No record is found of the extent of the business during the first years of the Company, but it was small, and not very remunerative until the growth of the City made it so. In 1880 it was found necessary to rebuild the purifying-house, to enlarge the retort-house and to enlarge and extend the main pipes; for which purpose the capital stock was increased to $500,000.
782 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
THE MANHATTAN IRON COMPANY.- Early in 1864, a Company was formed, under the name of the Manhattan Iron Company, for the purpose of manufacturing Charcoal Iron, selecting for location 10 acres on the East side of the River, and nearly opposite Manhattan. The furnace was 22x28 feet and 40 feet high. Near were four kilns, 50x15 feet, for burning coal, each to burn 80 cords of wood, the operation occupying some 10 days of time. D. Y. Howell constructed the furnace and kilns. The wood was obtained on Crane Creek and about three miles East of the Furnace, and was brought in on a private railway provided for the purpose. Operations were commenced in August, under the management of Mr. Tilden. About 25 men were employed, and 10 tons of Iron produced per day. Lake Superior ore was used. The establishment was in operation more or less for about five years, but, as the result largely of inexperience in its management, the enterprise was not a success. The owners were residents of Southern Ohio.
THE TOLEDO MOWER AND REAPER COMPANY, -In 1869, John J. Barker, A. D. Pelton and John S. Davis, formed a partnership, for the manufacture in Toledo of Agricultural machines, and more specially the " Sulky Mower and Reaper," an invention of Mr. Davis, at that time a resident of Tiffin. For such purpose grounds and buildings were provided. The work of perfecting their machine was prosecuted for several years, with varying results, such operation involving the expenditure of large sums of money, beside years of severe toil. The machine they sat out to produce was a success ; but the early appearance of the rake attachment, which they were unable to meet with an acceptable appliance of the same kind to their machine, was too much for them ; and after several changes in management, the business was closed out. In 1875, the establishment passed into the hands of the Toledo Mower and Reaper Company, of which J. B. Baldy was the President ; Leander Burdick, Vice President; and Wm. E. Parmelee, Jr., Secretary and Treasurer. The paid-up capital stock, then $50,000, has been increased to $144,000. In 1880, Reed V. Boice became the President, and Wm. Baker Vice President. In 1884, Bernard Meilink was chosen President, Fred. Eaton Vice President, and John Farley Secretary and Treasurer, who still hold such positions. Starting with the single machine (the Sulky Mower and Reaper), the trade has been extended to a full line of Mowers, Reapers and Binders. Operations by this establishment have ceased.
BAKERS.--The earliest record found of a Baker in Toledo, is that of John Pontius, whose advertisement appears in 1837 and 1838. His successors were too numerous here to be stated. Prominent among them was Charles Mertz, for several years dealer in general merchandise, as well as Baker. Among those now in business are-Fred. Gradolph, Lloyd & Worts, L. H. Meinert, Mrs. C. W. Pond, Seyfang & Scheuermann, George Tait, Mrs. E. A. Turley, Worts, Kirk & Bigelow.
GEORGE WORTS was born in London, England, September 8, 1828, his parents being Mannistee C. and Hannah (Smyth) Worts, natives of England. The father was a Baker. In 1830, the family came to the United States, landing at New York, December 30th. Stopping for a short time., he worked at his trade there, when he went to Newark, New Jersey. In 1835 they came West, stopping at Detroit, where he soon was warned out for military service for Michigan in the "Toledo War," then in progress. They returned East in 1836, stopping at Oswego, New York. There they remained until 1853, the father, meantime, being in the Baking business. At the latter (late they came to Toledo, where he resumed business. George's School days were spent at Oswego, with the privileges of the District School. While yet very young, he began work in a Bakery, his main service for a time consisting of stamping and panning crackers, which then were made wholly by hand, no machinery being employed in the business. In the Fall of 1844, he was for a time Steward on board the Propeller Vandalia, running between Oswego and Chicago, when he returned to the Bakery, and continued there until the Winter of 1849-50, at which time he shipped from New London, Connecticut, on board a Whaler for a voyage to Davis Straits, being gone about seven months. Leaving Oswego for the West, he reached Toledo, September 6, 1851. There he established a. Bakery on the Packet Dock, North side of' Swan Creek, between Monroe and Washington Streets. Upon the arrival of his father in 1853, the firm of Worts k Son was established, when they erected a Bakery at 140-142 St. Clair Street, with salesroom at 67 Summit. The limited delivery of sales necessary was made with a wheelbarrow. Subsequently they bought out Milo Bash are, successor to Charles Mertz. The establishment was burned out in 1861, and was rebuilt. In October, 1861, George enlisted in Company I, Sixty-Seventh Ohio Infantry, being commissioned as Second Lieutenant, and serving until June, 1862, when he resigned. With Albert Kirk, he built a Bakery in rear of the Store at 237 Summit Street. In 1866, the firm of Worts Co. was constituted of George Worts, Albert Kirk, Henry W. Bigelow and Henry S. Waite, who built the large building at 441 (new number) St. Clair Street. For a time they manufactured Aerated Bread, and until their Cracker trade fully engrossed their attention. Their business is now confined to Crackers, Cakes and Confectionery. They employ constantly two
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delivery wagons in the City and four traveling men. Their trade has steadily increased and is now by all odds larger than that of any other establishment in Northwestern Ohio. All operations in baking are now performed with machinery. Mr. Waite died April 16, 1873, the business since that time being continued by the other partners. Mr. Worts united with the order of Odd Fellows while in Oswego, and with Wapaukonica Lodge after coming to Toledo, which connection he still holds. He was elected a member of the Board of Aldermen from the Eighth Ward, Toledo, in April, 1881, and served in that body two years. Mr. Worts was married at Sterling Center, Cayuga County, New York, with Miss Louisa A. Lake, January 5, 1851, she dying December 19, 1852, leaving a son, George F. Worts, who was born at Toledo, and now resides there. Mr. Wortswasagain married March 18, 1855, with Miss Emily A. Howard, of Stone Mills, Jefferson County, New York. They have had four children, of whom two are living-Mrs. Walter C. Lloyd and Chivington Worts, both of Toledo.
HENRY WAITE BIGELOW was born at Colchester, Connecticut, February 1, 1838, where his father, a farmer, continued to reside until his death, in 1869, and where the mother yet resides. The ancestors of the parents were among the earliest settlers of New England, the original branch coming from England early in the 17th century. The family have given to Connecticut some of its most distinguished citizens. The paternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch, served during the Revolutionary War as Commissary General's Clerk; while his father (Colonel Guy Bigelow), born in 1785, was a prominent officer in the State Militia of Connecticut. He was also an active member of the Masonic order. His mother (Sarah A. Waite) was of a family specially distinguished in judicial history. Chief' Justice Henry M. Waite, of Connecticut, the father of Chief Justice Morrison R. Waite, of the United States Supreme Court, was her brother. The boyhood of the subject of this sketch was not essentially different from that of the average of New England farmers' sons. He was educated at Bacon Academy, Colchester. At the age of 16, he entered the store of Colonel D. R. Noyes, at Lyme, as clerk, remaining there two years. In 1856 he came to Toledo and engaged in like capacity in the Wholesale Grocery establishment of Secor, Berdan & Co. He remained with that firm until the Rebellion, when (August 15, 1861) he enlisted for three years in the Fourteenth Ohio Infantry, and was with his Company throughout its notable service-at Wild Cat, Chickamauga, Jonesboro, the Atlanta campaign and the ''March to the Sea." In March, 1862, he was promoted from First. Sergeant Company C, to Second Lieutenant Company I; in October, 1863, was advanced to First Lieutenant; and in December, 1864, to a Captaincy. At the battle of Chickamauga he was severely wounded in the thigh, and being incapacitated for service was granted a furlough; but rejoined his command at Chattanooga December 30,1863. From that time until May, 1864, he served on Court Martial duty. Preceding the battle of Jonesboro, he stood fourteenth in rank in the Regiment. Two days thereafter, as the result of loss of officers in that engagement and the muster-out of non-veteran organizations, he became second in rank, and thenceforward he acted as Major, serving in that capacity in the March to the Sea and in the Carolina campaign, as also in the Grand Review at Washington, May, 1865. He was in command of the Regiment during its muster-out at Louisville. While in service, Captain Bigelow several times declined staff appointment, and throughout his connection with the Army, he bore the just character of a brave, faithful and useful Soldier, commanding the confidence and respect, alike, of superior officers and enlisted men. For six months after being mustered out, he was detained in Connecticut by sickness contracted in the service. In February, 1866, he returned to Toledo, and in May, following, with George Worts, Albert Kirk, and Henry S. Waite, organized the firm of Worts & Co., for the manufacture of Crackers at 311 (old number) St. Clair Street. From that date until the death of Mr. Waite, in 1873, Captain Bigelow traveled for the house ; he then taking charge of its financial affairs. The firm-name was soon changed to Worts, Kirk & Bigelow, as it yet remains. To the exceptional success of the establishment, he has largely contributed by his close attention and sound judgment. Captain Bigelow was for many years a member of Forsyth Post, Grand Army of the Republic, and is now a member of Toledo Post, recently organized. He is also a member of Ohio Commandery, Loyal Legion ; of the Society of the Army of the Cumberland, and of the Fourteenth Regiment. In the Masonic order, he has for many years held a high position. Joining Rubicon Lodge, No. 237, Toledo, in February, 1859, he has since received all degrees of recognized Masonry, including the thirtythird and last degree. Politically, Captain Bigelow has always been a Republican in principle, yet directing his action by considerations of public policy, as these would be suggested to his judgment. Of a retiring disposition, he has sought a life of quiet, in the conscientious discharge of duty as the same was made known to him.
UNION MANUFACTURING COMPANY. - This Company was incorporated in 1872, with a capital stock of $100,000, and went into operation January 1, 1873. The officers of the Company at that time were: R. S. Janney, President; R. F. Lyttle, Secretary and Treasurer; Charles
784 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
H. Warren, Superintendent; William M. Bond, Purchasing Agent. The latter had taken the place in the Company of Mr. Rood, who retired before the conversion of the firm into a joint stock Company.
In 1881, the Company connected with their other business the manufacture of the Union Sewing Machine, and increased their capital stock to $300,000; and in 1885 this was increased to $1,000,000. Before the fire which destroyed their shops in the old Tile factory, the Company had purchased land and erected a Warehouse where their present works are (corner Hamilton and Bismarck streets), which they had filled with goods, and which were substantially all that were saved to them out of the fire. With that much for a new start, they moved into a small building which had been used as a Stave Factory, set up an engine and went to work. In 1873 they built two brick factories, each 50x100 feet, and two stories high, and joined them by an engine-room (also of brick) one story in height. They afterwards erected machine shops, barn, and other buildings; and in 1881 added the fine building for the Sewing Machine department. This building is of brick, 40x200 feet, three stories, with a wing of the same height 24x80 feet. To these structures have been added a shop and fuel-house 30x75 feet. The Company are now building a brick foundry, 112x120, for the manufacture of light castings. The works are on a side track of the Lake Shore Railroad, convenient for shipping. Mr. I. N. Poe has been President since 1881. Mr. R. S. Jannev became Vice President upon the election of Mr. Poe to the Presidency, and was succeeded in 1888 by W. S. Walbridge. W. O. Dakin was elected Secretary in 1881, in place of Mr. Lyttle, who then became Traveling Agent. Mr. Dakin was succeeded by S. C. Walbridge in 1887.
ROBERT SIMPSON JANNEY was born in Lower Makefield Township Bucks County, Pennsylvania, about 25 miles from Philadelphia, June 2, 1829, he is a son of Jacob and Esther (Betts) Janney, who were of English nativity, their ancestors being among the original band of Friends (or Quakers), who, with William Penn, settled in that section during the latter part of the 17th century. Thomas Janney, the pioneer of the family in America, settled on the farm where the father of the subject of this sketch was born, and where his lineal descendants still reside. Robert spent the first 12 years of his life on his father's farm, with educational privileges limited to the District School of an agricultural region. In 1841 the family removed to Montgomery County, Maryland. Remaining there for two years, they then returned to Bucks County, but soon located on a farm in the adjoining County of Montgomery. For two winters the son attended Loller Academy. Early in 1845, the family removed to Michigan, settling on a farm in Monroe County. The father died in 1867. Robert had so far improved his limited advantages, that during the winter of 1845-46, he taught a District School near the farm of his father; and with the exception of one winter in attendance at the Sylvania (Ohio) Academy, under Dr. Taylor, he taught school for 11 winters in Monroe and adjoining Counties in Michigan and Ohio, "boarding around" among the families represented in his Schools, as was then the practice with teachers. Meantime, he spent the Summers in labor on the farm. Relieved of farm work in the Fall of 1865, by a brother then returned from the Army, Mr. Janney came to Toledo and secured employment as Book-keeper for Worts, Kirk & Seyfang, Bakers. In the Spring of 1866, in partnership with C. R. Baldwin, under the firm name of Baldwin & Janney, was opened a Grocery store on Monroe Street, such engagement lasting for 18 months. In the fall of 1869, Mr. Janney purchased the Union Manufacturing Company's business, which had recently been established by H. S. Walbridge and Matt. Shoemaker, for the manufacture of Domestic Wooden-Ware. The establishment was located in the second story of Gates & Skidmore's Rake factory, on Erie Street. Soon thereafter E. A. Rood and LaFayette Lyttle became partners in the business, which proved a success, largely due to the capacity and industry of Mr. Janney. In 1873, a corporation (Union Manufacturing Company) was organized with Mr. Janney as its President, which position he held continuously (with the exception of one year), until his retirement from active management of the business, in 1853. When he assumed control of the establishment, but 30 operatives were employed; whereas, at the time of his withdrawal, a trade had been built up, requiring the employment of over 2011 workmen. Early in 1883, Mr. Janney became connected with The Toledo Moulding Company, and since that time has served as its President. The business of this Company is the manufacture of Picture Frames and Mould ings, and about 200 workmen are now employed in the establishment. Mr. Janney's executive abilities are best known in the exceptional success which has attended whatever he has undertaken. Politically, Mr. Janney acts with the Republican party, but has never sought official position of any sort, finding in connection with his business life full employment for his mind and activity. He was married April 13, 1863, with Miss Urania Baldwin, daughter of John Baldwin, her mother being now the wife of' Marquis Baldwin of' Toledo.
WITKER MANUFACTURING COMPANY. - This Company was incorporated April 20, 1886, and
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is engaged in the manufacture of Doors, Sash, Blinds, Mouldings, etc., the annual amount of sales being about $125,000. The Company has a large Steam Mill and Yard at the corner of Oak and Water Streets. The building was built in 1886. It is supplied with the most approved machinery. The proprietors were formerly connected with the Western Manufacturing Company, corner of Vine and Water Streets. In 1869 F. E. Witker was connected with the manufacturing firm of Eldridge Weil. He has been President of the Company since its incorporation. There has been no change in any of the officers, the list being, as at first: F. E. Witker, President; William F. Witker, Secretary and Treasurer. Directors: F. E. Witker, E. F. Witker, W. F. Witker, E. H. Wither, G. F. Witker.
FREDERICK E. WITKER was born in Wood County, Ohio, February 2, 1846. His parents, Ernst and Mary (Ballmeyer) Witker, were born near Hanover, Germany, and came to this country in 1840, bringing with them one daughter and settling on a farm in Wood County, where, wholly without experience in such life, and with limited means, they commenced work. The son remained with his parents, attending the District School a portion of the year, until he was 14 years old, when he came to Toledo, and found employment with his two uncles, Ferdinand Johnson and John F. Witker, Grocers, St. Clair Street, corner of Logan. Two years later he engaged with C. F. Curtis, for work in his Sash and Blind factory, where he learned the trade of his choice. In 1864, when 18 years old, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirtieth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. On being mustered out at the close of his term of enlistment, he entered the Sash and Blind factory of Hitchcock Walbridge, remaining there three years. In 1870, upon the dissolution of the firm of Keeler, Baird & Bivins, Mr. Witker united with others in organizing the Western Manufacturing Company, and in 1871 was chosen as President of that corporation, and with John H. Puck as Vice President, held that position until March 1,1886, when he withdrew from the Company after a devoted service of 15 years. He then established the Witker Manufacturing Company, corner of Oak and Water Streets, with himself as President and William F. Witker as Secretary and Treasurer. At a cost of over $18,000, a large and commodious brick building was erected for the establishment in 1886, where the business of manufacture of Sash, Doors and Blinds, and dealing in Carpenters' and Builders' supplies, is carried on, giving employment to over 60 work men. He is justly ranked among the many successful men of self-reliance and energy, who have done and are doing so much for Toledo and the entire country. Politically, he is a Democrat, because his convictions as to policy of Government have attached him to that party. Mr. Witker was married, in 1869, with Miss Mary Witgen, of Toledo, they now having four children.
THE AMERICAN HAND-SEWED SHOE COMPANY was incorporated in 1884, for the purpose of Wholesale Boot and Shoe trade. One of its objects was to develop the Lock-Stitch Sewing Machine as applied to the sewing of Shoes, an invention which gives a more durable sole than can be put on by hand, the stitch being locked in the middle of the leather of which the sole is composed. The Company commenced business in July, 1884, at 121 and 122 Summit Street. In 1887, in consequence of a fire in the building they occupied, it removed to 232 and 234 Summit Street, the present location. Its business has had a steady increase. During the year ended in July, 1887, it placed over $750,000 worth of goods. The Company is now agent of the Wardwell Shoe and Leather Company. The officers of the Company are Wm. B. Taylor, President; Franklin Hubbard, Treasurer; H. C. Taylor, Selling Agent.
THE STEVENS FILTER COMPANY was incorporated in 1879, for the purpose of manufacturing and selling an improved Water Filter for hotels, houses and public buildings. The process of filtration by this Filter, and now popular throughout the United States, is that of the upward passage of the water through the filtering medium, and its delivery into a chamber above the packing; so that, after being once purified, it is kept clean and wholesome. It is peculiarly adapted to turbid or roily water. The Filter has been in use about eight years, and during that time has been gaining a wide reputation. These Filters vary in capacity from one to 100 barrels per day.
The first officers of the Company were: J. H. Davis, President; George Weddell, Vice President; Walter Pickens, Secretary ; A. G. Williams, Treasurer. The present officers are A. R. Champeny, President; Walter Pickens, Vice President; J. W. Callard, Secretary and Treasurer. Mr. Davis sold his stock and retired from the Company in the Spring of 1886. Mr. Champney, who has been a Director since the organization, was elected President in 1885. Mr. Pickens was President from 1882 to 1885.
TOLEDO FOUNDERY AND MACHINE COMPANY. This now large and prosperous establishment owes its development chiefly to the judgment and energy of Mr. J. C. Wuerfel, the President of the Company since its organization. Mr. Wuerfel came from Germany with his parents when he was 12 years old. For a number of years he was in the Grocery trade in Toledo,
786 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
and left that and engaged in manufacturing business in connection with Moore's Foundery and Machine Shop in 1878, of which he was Manager. In 1880 he took a leading part in the organization of the Toledo Foundery and Machine Company, which was incorporated March 1st of that year. The present officers of the Company are: J. C. Wuerfel, President and Manager; John Crowe, Secretary. The Company are engaged in the manufacture of Railroad Excavators, Ballast Unloaders, Dredges, Pile-Drivers, Snow Plows, Circular Saw Mills, Steam Engines, Hoisting Machinery, &e. Their sales, which amounted to $40,000 in 1881, increased to $80,000 in 1887.
THE SMITH BRIDGE COMPANY.-In 1867, Robert W. Smith, J. J. Swigart, A. S. Miller and J. A. Hamilton, associated themselves, as partners, under the firm name of R. W. Smith & Co., for manufacture of Railroad and Highway Bridges, and at once commenced that business. In 1870 a joint stock company was organized, and named the Smith Bridge Company, with R. W. Smith, as President ; J. J. Swigart, as Vice President; J. D. Cook, as Secretary :, and H. A. Boyd, as Treasurer. The officers of the Company, January 1, 1888, were as follows : R. W. Smith. President; J. J. Swigart, Vice President ; William S. Daly, Secretary ; F. E. Tracy, Treasurer ; Daniel Howell, Engineer.
ROBERT W. SMITH was born in West Charleston, Miami County, Ohio, December 31, 1834. His parents were of English and Scotch ancestry, the mother's name having been Julia Thomas. The bother was a Cabinetmaker, specimens of his skill yet remaining in the vicinity of his residence. His physical strength was such as to make severe the labor requisite for the satisfactory support of his family The mother was a woman of intelligence and refinement, with special talent for artistic work, many proofs of her success in drawing now remaining. As may be inferred, the son's educational privileges were meagre enough. His first lessons consisted of a paddle of wood, on one side of which was the alphabet, and on the other the "a b abs," with his mother for teacher. Before he had got far beyond the grade thus indicated. and without regular School privileges, he was sent to the country to do chores for a living with a relative. His education before his 15th year beyond that supplied on the paddle, was only such as he was able to pick up; but he had learned to read and write. Then feeling he absolute need of more instruction, he succeeded in getting to at Public School, which he was permitted to enjoy for a period of 16 days, which constituted his entire School education. But even in such short time, he was able to snatch a few rudiments, including an insight to primary arithmetic and McGuff'y's readers. His Schooldays completed, he secured employment with a Builder, to work a year at Carpentry. During this time he developed his genius in the construction of a piece of continuous rail-stair from first to third floor. he soon entered upon business on his own account, and developed talent rapidly. He was the first builder to put up large barns with self-supporting roofs, thus doing away with the posts, always so inconvenient in such buildings. Two of these barns yet remain in Miami County, one built for the late Colonel J. R. Woodward, at Woodward Place; and the other for Hon. Samuel Sullivan, near Tadmor. In 1862, in connection with his brother William, Mr. Smith ran a small Wood-working Machine Shop and Lumber Yard at Tippecanoe. In 1864 the brother died, other parties then taking an interest in the business, which is yet continued. In 1866, Mr. Smith made an important advance by the invention of what came to be known as the "Smith Truss Bridge " (of wood), which soon had a remarkable demand. Finding that a large field and more adequate facilities for obtaining supplies and for shipping manufactures were demanded, r. Smith in 1867 decided to remove to Toledo, where he at once founded the Smith Bridge Company-he constituting the entire Company. When he began business one 300-foot bridge was considered a fair Summer's job; but in 1867 he built five bridges; in 1868, 22; and in 1869, 75. The present, joint Stock Company was organized in 1870, whose business has reached au annual aggregate of $500,000. Soon after the year 1870, began a change from wood to iron, as material for the construction of bridges, which continued, until now very few wood structures are manufactured. With the increase in demand for bridges, improved machinery for such purpose was required. This, mainly, had to be invented. The principal invention of this sort was a gaining machine, which does the work of 15 men, and in better manner. Another improvement made consists of a process for making a steel eye-bar, which is very valuable. Beside these, were a rotary saw, for making the joints of bridge-chords; and a multiple punch, by which six pieces of iron can be punched at one operation, one mail with it doing the work of six by the old method. One of the highest achievements of Mr. Smith in this connection consists in the, construction of turn-tables for draw-bridges, so made as to be operated with the least possible friction. Its operation is seen in the Cherry Street bridge, at Toledo, the draw of which is 300 feet long 46 feet wide, and weighs 420 tons, and yet can be turned by one man, the requisite pressure on the lever being only 75 pounds. It is now operated by steam in 45 seconds of time. He has devised iron drawbridges for Canals, so arranged that boats push
MANUFACTURES. - 787
them open, they closing when the boats have passed. A pressure of three pounds will open them. These bridges are now in general use. When at New Orleans in. 1876, Mr. Smith accidentally fell in with the City Engineer, who had prepared a plan for a landing or floating dock for a ferry, and who, on learning that Mr. Smith was a Bridge Builder, submitted to that gentleman his plan for examination, when its defects were pointed out so clearly that Mr. Smith was asked to prepare a plan, which was submitted to the Board of Control, and adopted in lieu of that of the City Engineer, and the contract for the construction of the work given to the Smith Bridge Company, by which it was executed, Mr. Smith being paid $1,000 extra for the plan. The approach is 125 feet long, the rise and fill with the tide being 15 feet. This was placed at Canal Street. Another like structure was built for the Jackson Street ferry, as were other swing-bridges in that City. While Mr. Smith has been from the first, and yet is, the main controlling and directing power of this great work, he has been for over 20 years largely indebted for success to the support of efficient assistants. Prominent among these is Mr. J. J. Swigart, whose financial sagacity and energy have contributed materially to the prosperity of' the business. Mr. D. Howell, the Chief Engineer, and his five assistants, together with Wm. S. Daly, the present Secretary, and Lewis Motter and Andrew Stroehlein, all have been able and substantial aids in securing for the Company its remarkable success and high character. While making a record in the business world thus brilliant; and successful, Mr. Smith has been no less considerate in the high personal character he has established, and in the pervading regard for the moral and material well being of his fellowmen, who have always had in him a worthy model of upright, conscientious life. In 1856 Mr. Smith was married with Miss Mary Ann Pearson, the daughter of a Quaker farmer. She died in 1881, leaving three children--Mrs. La Mont Bateman, Chas. E. Smith and Mrs. Laura Burnet, all of Toledo.
THE JEWEL MANUFACTURING. COMPANY was incorporated June 28, 1884 ; its main object being the manufacture of Sewing Machines and specialties. The works are located at the corner of Central and Detroit Avenues. The Company erected suitable buildings in 1884-5, at a cost of about $25,000. The capital stock of the Company is $300,000. Since the business went into operation, over 6,000 Sewing Machines have been made, besides a considerable amount of order work. The officers of the Company from its organization until February, 1888, were: President, D. R. Locke; Vice President, Wm. Baker; Secretary and Treasurer, F. T. Lane; Superintendent, G. F. Danielson. On the death of Mr. Locke, at the time named, Charles A. Gaiser was elected President.
THE TOLEDO MOULDING COMPANY.-This organization was preceded in 1867 by the firm of H. J. Chase & Co. (Henry J. Chase, Hartwell Osborn, Benjamin A. Stevens), who were the pioneers in the manufacture of Mouldings in Toledo; making at that time, however, only those of black walnut. Their shop was located in the Sash and Blind Factory of Gates & Skidmore, on Erie Street, until 1870, when, more room being required, they moved to the corner of Water and Lagrange Streets, where they remained until burned out in 1873. At that time Mr. Henry S. Swayne purchased the interest of Mr. Stevens, and the firm became Osborn, Chase and Swayne. In 1873-4 they erected and equipped the buildings at the corner of Chestnut and Champlain Streets, now occupied by The Toledo Moulding Company. The latter organization was incorporated January 14, 1880, with a capital stock of $100,000, the incorporators being John Cummings, W. W. Griffith, R. V. Boice, J. B. Baldy and Noah H. Swayne, Jr. The first officers of the Company were: R. V. Boice, President; Henry S. Swayne, Vice President ; Cyrus Hussey, Secretary and Treasurer.
In 1880 the Company bought the premises and equipments of Osborn, Chase & Swayne, consisting of the present buildings and machinery, with the exception of some minor additions since made. The principal manufactures of the house are Mouldings, Picture Frames and Cornices, of all styles and varieties. The sales range from $150,000 to $175,000 a year. The present officers are : Noah H. Swayne, President; I. N. Humphrey, Vice President; Cyrus Hussey, Secretary and Treasurer. R. V. Boice was President from 1880 to 1883 ; R. S. Jan n ey, from 1883 to 1887. Henry S. Swayne was Vice President from 1880 to 1887; Cyrus Hussey has held the offices of Secretary and Treasurer since the incorporation in 1880.
THE GREAT WESTERN PIN COMPANY was incorporated November 14, 1883, by Charles F. Milburn, G. R. Hudson, L. S. Baumgardner, C. L. Luce and Fred. Eaton, with a capital stock of $75,000. In December, 1884, it began the manufacture of Pins, being the only establishment for that purpose West of Detroit, which are the only other Pin Works West of Rochester, New York. The Company has done much to occupy this great field as a market for its goods, which already demands increased facilities. The Company runs 31 Pin Machines, with an average capacity of 2,500 cases a year, each case containing 108 packs of one dozen papers each ; and employ, on an average, 45 hands. The present officers of the Company are: G. R. Hudson,
788 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
President; F. B. Dodge, Vice President; John Farley, Treasurer, and C. F. Milburn, Secretary.
THE TOLEDO COT AND WRINGER MANUFACTURING COMPANY.-This Company was incorporated in October, 1885, by L. S. Halstead, L. K. Parks, J. A. Barber and L. S. Baumgardner, who purchased the stock and interest of the Perfection Manufacturing Company, and organized with the following officers : President, L. S. Baumgardner ; Vice President, L. K. Parks; Secretary, H. S. Halstead. The business continued under the management of these gentlemen until April, 1887, when Mr. Baumgardner, by purchase, became the entire owner of the property, and uniting his interest with that of W. W. Griffith, proprietor of the Griffith Cot Company, organized the present Company by the election of the following Board of Directors: L. S. Baumgardner, W. W. Griffith, R. V. Boice, E. W. Baumgardner, J. H. Baumgardner. The Board elected the following officers: President and Treasurer, L. S. Baumgardner ; Secretary, J. H Baumgardner. The goods manufactured are Cots, Folding Beds, Folding Chairs, Bench-wringers, Refrigerators, Fancy Oars, Steel Sleds, School and Hall Furniture, &c. They employ about 40 hands.
FONTAINE CROSSING AND SIGNAL.-This arrangement for Railway use, invented by Eugene Fontaine, is now being supplied by the Fontaine Crossing and Signal Company, at Toledo. It was incorporated September 11, 1880, with a capital of $100,000. The works comprise a mammoth brick structure, 50x350 ft, in size, and are supplied with all the latest and most approved machinery. The Directors are: Ex-Governor Charles Foster, ex-Governor R. K. Scott, M. I. Wilcox, C. K. Brandon, S. V. Shelly, E. Fontaine and G. W. Holston. The officers are : C. K. Brandon, President ; ex-Gov. Scott, Vice President; S. V. Shelly, Secretary and Treasurer; and E. Fontaine, Superintendent. The last named gentleman is in charge of the business, and gives it his undivided attention.
THE VOUTE EXCAVATING SEWER AND DRAINAGE COMPANY.-C. H. Voute, Contractor. This Company has a new and effective process of cleaning cess-pools, catch-basins, sewers and other vaults. It also removes ashes and rubbish of every description, and gives special attention to the construction of Sewers, Drains, Wells, etc.
PARTIAL LIST OF MANUFACTURES.
Axle Manufacturers.-Tubular Axle Co.
Awnings and Tents.-M. I. Wilcox Cordage and Supply Co.
Barber Chairs.-Ransom & Randolph.
Bent Wood Work.-Brigham, Lamson & Co., W. D. Burgess, Toledo Bending Co., Toledo Carriage Woodwork Co.
Bicycles- Gendron Iron Wheel Co.
Boat Builders.- Hepburn Brothers.
Boiler Makers.-Holzemer & Loos, Ricard Brothers, Shoup, Sperber & Co.
Bolts and Nuts.-Toledo Nut and Bolt Co.
Book Binders and Blank Books.-Blade Printing & Paper Co., J. T. Frey, Montgomery & Vrooman, The B. F. Wade Co., Wendt & Rausch.
Box Manufacturers.-Blade Prin ting & Paper Co., H. E. Davis (Cigar), John Nagely, Ohio Pump and Box Co., Union Paper Box Co., George Wilson & Sons (Packing).
Brass Founders.-Shaw. Kendall & Co., C. H. Allen, John Shaw, Valentine Seeger.
Brick Manufacturers.-Spear. Jacobs& Allen, J. R, Boice, A. W. Brooker & Co., J. B. Fox & Co., E. B. Hall, Owen & Howell, A. E. Macomber, Mrs. M. A. Stebbins.
Bridge Builders.-'I'. H. Hamilton, Massillon Bridge Co., Smith Bridge Co.
Brush Manufacturers. -The Ames-Bonner Co., Toledo Brush Co.
Candy Manufacturers.-Crescent Candy Co., Worts, Kirk & Bigelow.
Car Builders.-The Arms Palace horse-Car Co., Consolidated Rolling Stock Co.
Carriages and Wagons.-H. P. Benson, John Bladon, M. J. Cooney & Co.. Joseph Dornberger, Milburn Wagon Co., John Rapparlie, F. I. Sur, Peter Welter,
Carriage Tops.-C. Z. Kroh & Brother.
Cider and Vinegar.- Berger Brothers, T. B. Hine, Victor Gladieux.
Cloaks. -Alexander Black.
Coffee and Spice Mills.-Woolson Spice Company, George W. Boos, Eagle Spice Mills, Toledo Spice Company.
Corset Makers.- Mrs. Nellie Durr, Mrs Mary Loftus.
Coopers- P. S. Carr. A. H. Hasemeyer, Louis John, Mueller Brothers, Edward Mulcahey, J. M. Shunck & Brother. Skidmore & Thacher, G. H. Steinkamp.
Cot Manufacturers.- Griffith Portable Cot Co., Toledo Cot and Wringer Manufacturing Co.
Divers.-Sub-Marine- Thacher & Breymann.
Dredgers.-Janes Bouncy & Soils.
Edge Tools.-C. H. Moore.
Electric Light.--Toledo Electric Company, Western Electric Light and Power Co.
Elevators.--Smith & Haldeman.
Extracts.-John Hoffman, Keystone Extract Co.
Fertilizers.-S. H. Morgan & Co., D. I ..Roth.
Filters-The Stevens Filter Co., John N. Stevens.
Flouring Mills-Armada Mills, Dorr Street Feed Mill, Manhattan Mills, McConnell & Co., Northwestern Elevator and Mill Cc., Bechtol, Carney & Co.
Founders and Machinists.-- Herbert Baker, Nathaniel Haughton, H. B. Milmine & Co.,
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Shaw, Kendall & Co., Edward McLeary, Jr., Toledo Foundry and Machine Co., Smith & Haldeman. George W. Heartley, Vulcan Iron Works.
Furniture.-Conant Brothers Furniture Co., Meilink Furniture Co., T. J. Collins & Co.,
Schauss Manufacturing Co.. HiIlebrand & Foth.
Galvanized Iron Cornice-J. L. Creswell, G. F. C. Kloeppinger.
Gold. Silver and Nickel Platers.-Gendron Iron Wheel Co., M. F. Richards.
Gravel Roofers.--Edward Arnold, Joseph Livers, N. T. Ketcham.
Hats.-Amander Ford, Charles Cefel. Horse Collers- J. E. Quinn.
Knit Goods-Jacob Mandler, Roth& Fried man.
Japanned Ware.--E. P. Breckenridge & Co.
Lithographers.- Locke & Trowbridge.
Marble Works.--Eckhardt Brothers, Blank & Girard. John O'Farrell, Lloyd Brothers. Producers Marble Co.. Louis Haring, Woodruff Brothers, Samuel Clarke.
Overalls.-L. S. Dortree.
Packers.-W. O. Brown & Son, Jacob Folger, Jacob Kurtz.
Paint Manufacturers.--Buckeye Paint & Varnish Co., Dolphin Color Works, Toledo Paint & Varnish Co.
Perfumers.-George Lorenz, Philip Lorenz, John .Hoffman.
Photographers.-E. H. Alley, O. G. Fields, S. Benster, G. H. Chesebro, D. B. Claflin, George Fields, Join Koella. McKecknie & Oswald, E. J. O'Leary. Mrs. M. D. Quinn, N. J. Peter, Arthur & Philbric, John Chrisman, F. J. Trost, W. F. Van Loo.
Picture Frames.-The Ohio Moulding and Picture Frame Co., The Toledo Moulding Co.
Pins.-Great Western Pin Co.
Planing Mills.-Diamond Planing Mill Co., Goulet Manufacturing Co., John S. Eck & Co., Victor Gladieux, Maclaren &Sprague, Mitchell Rowland Lumber Co.. J. V. Sanfleet, The C. H. Schroeder Co., Toledo Door, Sash & Blind Co., J. S. Morgan, Western Manufacturing Co., Witker Manufacturing Co.. Young & Miller, Barbour & Starr, W. H. H. Smith Co.
Plows.-Toledo Plow Co.
Pumps.-Ohio Pump & Box Co., Toledo Pump Co.
Rolling -Mills. Maumee Rolling Mill Co.
Rubber Stamps.-Wyman Boardman, Toledo Rubber Stamp Co.
Rugs and Rug- Machines.-E. Ross & Co.
Saw Manufaeturers.-Tillinghast & Co., Hugh Bartley, Northwestern Saw Works (August Mertz).
Shirt Manufacturers.-Garvin & Johnson, C. N. D. Meade, Miss E. N. Cunningham.
Staves and Heading-The Dewey Stave Co., D. N. Trowbridge (also hoops), Trowbridge & Eddy.
Soap Manufacturers.--Assemblies Soap Co., John Bell & Co., S. W. Bell & Co.
Tile --M. W. Brooker & -Co., Owen & Howell.
Tobacco.--Buckeye Tobacco Works, Toledo Tobacco Works
Trunk Manufacturers.-W. H. Birkencamp & Co., J. B. Shepler, Eggeman, Duguid & Co. Wheelbarrows.--G. W. Thomas &. Co.
Wire Signs.--Toledo Wire and Iron Works.
Wine Growers and Manufacturers.--Lenk Wine Company, h.. W. E. Koch.
Wood Working Machinery. Herbert Baker, W. W. Cooke.
Wooden and Willow Ware.-Union Manufacturing Co., Dunscomb & Co., Spross Bros.
MICHAEL J. ENRIGHT was born in Cincinnati, March 5, 1845. of Irish parentage. The family removed to Toledo in 1853. His early educational advantages were comparatively good, his father being an educated man, having been a Professor of Languages in an English College. His mother, Anna Theresa Mahon Enright, was a writer of considerable note, and contributed to the Toledo papers. She died in 1859, when the son was sent to School at Notre Dame College, Indiana. For the first year he was at the Manual Labor School, and for one and a half years at the Seminary. The object of his father at this time was to fit him for the Priesthood. Not taking kindly to such plan, he left Notre Dame without his father's approval, and returned to Toledo, where he engaged to learn the Carpenters trade with Edward Malone. His wages not being sufficient to meet his expenses, he obtained employment in a Tub and Pail Factory, where, in addition to his regular labor, he kept the time-book of the men, and got, in all, 80 cents per day. At the end of six months of this service, and when 17 years old (in 1862), he enlisted as private in the Union Army, being mustered into Company H, One Hundreth and Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was subsequently appointed as Lieutenant, and served out his term of enlistment (three years) with special credit for fidelity and courage. He went with his Regiment to the Army of the Ohio (General Buell), and participated in the campaigns of that command. He was with it in the pursuit and capture of John Morgan ; in the East Tennessee campaign of General Burnside ; in the Atlanta campaign and the Franklin and Nashville campaigns under General Thomas; and took part in the capture of Fort Anderson and Wilmington. He was slightly wounded at Dallas, Georgia ; was captured by Wheeler's Rebel Cavalry at Kingston, Georgia, but made his escape while crossing the Etowah River. He was mustered out with Regiment, in 1865. Returning to Toledo, at the age of 20 years, he obtained the situation of Entry Clerk in the Wholesale Dry Goods House of Luce, Chapin & Blass. In 1867 he went to Rochester, New York, to become Clerk in a Hotel ; but soon accepted the position of Clerk for the Manager of the New York
790 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
Oil Company, where he remained for two years. Returning again to Toledo, he became a Shipping Clerk for Chase, Isherwood & Co., Tobacco Manufacturers. At the age of 25 (1870), he was appointed Deputy Sheriff. In 1872 he was elected County Clerk, being reelected in 1875, and in 1878, serving three terms and retiring in 1881. From 1881 to 1885, he was the Manager of the Toledo Transfer Company. In 1885, in connection with Frank C. Smith, he established the Toledo Brush Company, at 170-174 St. Clair Street, which is still in successful operation, Mr. Enright retaining his interest in the Transfer Company. He was in September, 1887, elected President of the Toledo Business Men's Committee, organized for promoting the general interests of the City, and more especially for making known and giving effect to Toledo's advantages as a manufacturing and commercial point. In 1886, Mr. Enright consented to the use of his name, as a candidate for nomination for Congress by the Democratic Convention, in opposition to Frank H. Hurd, and lacked but few votes of success. For several years he has been a Director of the Tri-State Fair Association ; and is President of the Petoskey Lime and Stone Company. With George G. Hadley, he purchased the patent of the Arthur Engine, which they are now manufacturing at Toledo. Left entirely to his own resources when 16 years of age, his subsequent life was the result of his unaided will and effort. he makes special recognition of the benefits derived throughout from the good foundation furnished him in the education supplied by his parents; and with, that he associates the early lesson of self reliance, so fully taught him in unavoidable experience. January 22, 1872, he was married to Miss Amelia A., daughter of Captain J. C. Purdy, of Toledo.
ISAAC D. SMEAD. Among those who have made successful efforts in the department of Applied Science is Isaac D. Smead, of this City, the head of several associated firms known as the Smead Warming and Ventilating Company. Mr. Smead was born in Coleraine, Franklin County, Massachusetts, July 31, 1849. His lather, Ezra Smead, was a mechanic, and added to his resources in providing for his family by the cultivation of a small farm. Isaac was brought up in the quiet New England home, where he attended the District School, and completed his opportunities for education by two or three terms at a Select School. His naturally energetic spirit soon rebelled against the monotony and conservatism of rural New England life, and at the age of 16, against the wishes of his parents, he left home, determined to seek a more congenial situation. he naturally sought the young and growing West. Good fortune (as it turned out) led him to Bloomington, Illinois, where, strange as it may appear, he came at once in contact with the conditions which determined his future course and led him to the successful solution of his life problem. It is well known that Mr. Smead has devoted over 20 years of his life to the most persistent and assiduous efforts to solve the problem of warming and ventilating houses and public buildings in accordance with the principles of Sanitary science, and that his efforts have been remarkably successful
In this climate and in the Northern and middle latitudes generally, -where artificial heat is so much depended upon, and where, at the sauce time, good ventilation as a condition of health is among the prime necessities, few enterprises can equal in Sanitary and economic value, the one in which Mr. Smead is engaged; and his success is to be regarded in the light of a public benefaction.
The starting-point of Mr. Smead's career in this undertaking was with the firm of W. A. Pennell & Co., with whom he first found employment on his arrival at Bloomington in 1867, the firm having been organized but a short time previously. In giving a brief history of the firm, we shall show the relation of Mr. Smead to Mr. Ruttan, upon whose original system he has made so many important improvements.
The questions of Sanitary heating and ventilation had been widely discussed, but no attempt had been made to solve their scientifically and practically prior to the efforts of Hon. Henry Ruttan, of Coburg, Canada. Mr. Ruttan, after devoting years of careful study to the subject, and procuring several patents, published in 1862, a large volume setting forth the theories which form the underlying principles of the system generally known as the Ruttan System of Warming and Ventilation. Among the first to he convinced of the practicability of Mr. Ruttan's system was B. Hawley, of Normal, Illinois, who in 1866, with the design of putting the system into practice, became associated with W. A. Pennell and Lemuel Grover, under the firm name of WV. A. Pennell & Co. It was but a short time after the organization of this firm when young Smead became connected with it.
It is not our intention to follow the successes and failures of the new enterprise, which upon all sides was surrounded by obstacles. At the outset, the experiments in which the firm were engaged in reducing Mr. Ruttan's theories to practice, no less than the scientific principles involved in them, enlisted the natural genius of the boy, and he engaged in the work with all the zeal of a veteran scientist. So rapid was his progress in a field of labor so interesting to him, and so efficient did he become, that upon the organization of the Company which succeeded the firm in 1872, he was chosen its Secretary. The new Company be-
LABOR ASSOCIATIONS. - 791
gan at once to push the enterprise with vigor, expending several thousand dollars in improving old patterns and making new ones; so that at the end of four years, scarcely a pattern remained that had been in use when the Company was organized. During this period Mr. Smead developed great ingenuity and fertility of resource in overcoming mechanical obstacles seemingly insurmountable. But the Company, contrary to his advice, made an unfortunate investment in iron, which compelled them, in the Spring of 1877, to suspend operations. But for Mr. Smead's indomitable energy in this crisis, the toil and labor of years would have been lost. Soon thereafter a new Company was organized, of which he was made President, the offices were removed to Chicago, and once more the business moved forward. After two years, a new office was opened in Kansas City. In 1882, another office was established in Toledo, under the firm name of Isaac D. Smead & Co. Early in 1885, from the employes of the Toledo Company, two new Companies were formed, which bear Air. Smead 's name- Smead Warming and Ventilating Company-one with offices at Elmira, New York, and the other at Philadelphia. In 1886 another firm was organized, with offices at Toronto, Canada. These six firms are joined together in an Association called The ruttan Warming and Ventilating Association c the United States, of which Mr. Smead is President.
It is simple justice to Mr. Smead to say Fiat to his instrumentality, more than to that of any other man, is due the success of this great and useful enterprise. Of the fourteen patents employed in the application of the Ruttan-Smead system, all, with the exception of two or three, are the inventions of Mr. Smead. In fact, so much does the present system owe to the changes produced in it by his improvements, that, were the originator alive to-day, he would not recognize in the present system that which originally bore his name.
To show the rapid growth of the business under Mr. Smead's management, it is only necessary to state that in 1877 the amount of iron manufactured into apparatus, amounted to about 200,000 pounds, while in 1887 over 5,000,000 pounds were made.
In 1885, Mr. Smead issued a volume in which he reviewed the history of the rise and progress of the system with which he has been, almost from its inception, so intimately identified. It is an interesting document, showing Low thoroughly conversant he is with the problem into the practical solution of which he has coined so much of his own brain and energy.
Besides the engrossing labors involved in this extensive business, being the executive head of the four firms we have mentioned, his energies have led him into other fields of enterprise. He owns and cultivates a large orange grove in Florida, and is Vice President of the Toledo Marine Company, and is a Director in several other Companies.
A Republican in politics, he is decided in his convictions, it being no part of his nature to be neutral or to compromise anything which he holds as a matter of principle or duty. The cares of his business have prevented him, even though he was so disposed, from taking any active part in political affairs. Although he has never sought or solicited any political office or appointment, he has held since 1886, and filled with his usual energy and competency for the discharge of executive business, a place in the Board of Managers of the Ohio State Penitentiary, to which he was appointed by Governor Foraker. He is also, by appointment of the Centennial Directors, Commissioner of the Department of Mechanics and Machinery at the Ohio Centennial in 1888.
The career of Mr. Smead, thus imperfectly outlined, will indicate somewhat his mental traits and endowments. One of his distinguishing characteristics is his intuitive sagacity in judging of men. He seems to know by intuition the right person to fill any place which he wants filled, and perhaps this is the secret of the little friction and disturbance which occurs in his extensive business. His power of organization, and his executive ability, enable him to systematize and easily manage a large force of employes, and his uniform courtesy to all, secures him the good will, not only of every one in his employ, but of the many customers and the large number of public men and private citizens with whom he is constantly in business relations. He is of a nature to attract and invite trust and confidence, and it is never misplaced or betrayed. His social and genial qualities-frank and straightforward, without being blunt or obtrusive-give a charm to his manners, and render him one of the most agreeable of companions.
But it is in the circle of his home-guarded as it is by an estimable wife, the daughter of Hon. J. W. Armstrong, of LaSalle County, Illinois, whom he married in 1874, and his two boys-that Mr. Smead finds his highest enjoyment. And here his virtues, as an exemplary husband and father, testify to the noblest qualities of his manhood. His home is one of the most attractive in the City, and furnishes a pleasant retreat from the engrossing cares of an extensive business.
LABOR ASSOCIATIONS.
The first distinctive organization in Toledo composed of laboring classes, was the Toledo Mechanics' Association, which was formed at a meeting of resident Mechanics held February 4, 1843. Austin Willey was the Chairman, and Ira L. Clark the Secretary of the meeting. It was resolved to form themselves into an association, " for the purpose of protection
792 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
against the combinations on the part of employers, speculators and traders." The moral and intellectual improvement of its members was declared to be a leading object of the movement.
In February, 1844, the Toledo Mechanics' Library Association was started, with the following officers: President, Joseph Jones; Vice President, J. N. Mount; Secretary, I. L. Clark; Treasurer, A. W. Fairbanks ; Librarian, James Love; Directors, Peter H. Shaw, John P. Freeman, and Granville Jones. In February, 1845, these officers were re-elected.
At the dates named, there was but limited extent of organization among the different branches of industry, and such was confined chiefly to the larger Cities. Since that time, the increase in that direction has been constant, until now most departments of industry have thorough, extensive and effective organization, whose power, from time to time, is made manifest. It would be impracticable here to furnish detailed mention of the progress of such organization in Toledo, and it will suffice to give the following list of existing Labor organizations there:
KNIGHTS OF LABOR.
Local Assemblies attached to District Assembly No. 72, K. of L.:
No. 1942-Tell.
No. 2277-Maumee.
No. 2570-Peter Cooper.
No. 3031-Liberty (German).
No. 3315- Lincoln.
No. 4557-Advance.
No. 9779-Fortschritt (German, Ladies).
No. 9966-(Polish.)
No. 10062-Joan of Arc (English, Ladies).
TRADES-UNIONS OF TOLEDO.
Bakers' Union.
Bricklayers' Union.
Carpenters' and Joiners' Union. Cigar Makers' Union.
Grain Trimmers' Union.
Horseshoers' Union.
Iron Moulders's Union.
Longshoremen's Union.
Plasterers' Union.
Painters' Union.
Plumbers', Gas and Steam-Fitters' Union.
Seamen's Union.
Toledo Typographical Union.
Tinners' and Sheet-Metal Workers.
PETER GENDRON was born at St. Ours, Canada, February 23, 1844. He is the son of John B. Gendron, who was born at Contre Coeur, Canada, January 30, 1800, and died in 1878. His mother, Lucie Dudvoir, was born in Sorel, Canada, in 1818, and died in 1880. Peter remained in his native Village until 1854, when his family moved to Southbridge, Massachusetts. At the age of' 11 years, he commenced working in a Woolen Mill, and continued there until be was 15 years old. In 1859, his father moved to Coaticooke, Canada, where he purchased a large farm. Having a family of 10 children, of whom five were boys, with the assistance of the latter, he also engaged in manufacturing and repairing wagons, such being his trade. Here Peter began to develop his inventive skill, and even at this early age introduced improvements in the work on which he was engaged, which characteristic; was so notably marked in his after life. At the age of 21 (in 1865), he was married with Delima Trudeau, who was born at St. Michael, Canada, September 28, 1845. In the same year of his marriage he moved to Toledo. Here he was employed as Pattern-maker by Russell Thayer, proprietors of the Toledo Novelty Works, in whose service he continued for six years. In 1871 he moved his family to Detroit, where he was also engaged as a Pattern-maker by the Detroit Safe Company. While there, he invented his first wire wheel. Ho then removed to Toledo and put his invention in operation by introducing it on children's carriages, and in so doing he was the first manufacturer of children's carriages with wire wheels. In 1877, with three other workmen, he started a factory at North Toledo ; but through, lack of capital the enterprise failed of success. Financial disaster did not shake the confidence of Mr. Gendron in his patents, but with energy and perseverance, he commenced alone the manufacture of carriages in the upper part of his dwelling, assuming the debts of the dissolved firm. After nearly three wars, by hard labor against insurmountable obstacles, he succeeded in establishing a market for his goods, and placed the business on a paying basis. In the Fall of 1880 he organized the stock Company, now known as the Gendron Iron Wheel Company, and for three years the business was carried on at 218 Summit Street. In 1883 the works were moved to their present quarters, corner Superior and Orange Streets, in a four-story building, 100x100 feet, erected expressly for them. The progress during the first five years of the Company's existence was slow, owing to the mountainous obstacles that had to be overcome. First, it was necessary to contend against the powerful competition of old and wealthy manufacturers of wooden wheel carriages in the Eastern States, who had their scores of salesmen and their trade established for years. In order to meet this competition, Mr. Gendron was compelled to abandon his first wheel, because it was too expensive in construction ; and in 1882 he invented and obtained a patent on his present wheel, which is cheaper, lighter and more durable. Even then the growth of the business was not satisfactory, nor did the Company obtain a high position with the trade, until Mr. Gendron became associated in the management of the business with men of push and energy like himself. These associates are George H. Fisher
MANUFACTURES. - 793
and Joshua F. Vogel. Mr. Fisher is a native of Ohio, born at Piqua, Miami County, in 1847, and came to Toledo in 1875; for 10 years he was one of the leading Druggists of the City. Through his intimate acquaintance with Mr. Gendron, his name headed the list of subscribers to the capital stock of the Gendron Iron Wheel Company. Mr. Vogel is also a native of Ohio, born at Sidney, Shelby County, in 1858, and came to Toledo in his 14th year. After graduating in the Toledo Public Schools, he attended the Ohio Wesleyan University. For nine years he was prominently connected with one of the leading Grain Commission houses of Toledo. He was also one of the original subscribers to the capital stock of the Company. During the past few years through the present management, the business of the Company has grown to such an extent, that it has recently become necessary to erect another substantial building adjoining their old quarters, which now gives them a building with a frontage on Superior Street of 220x100 feet, four stories. They give employment to 275 hands the year round. The Company has a paid up capital of 8300,000. The officers are G. H. Fisher, President; E. D. Scheble, Vice President ; J. F. Vogel, Secretary and Treasurer ; and Peter Gendron, Superintendent. The latter position Mr. Gendron has held from the start. During the last few years be has obtained no less than 25 valuable patents on machines used and articles manufactured by this Company, to whom these patents are assigned. Messrs. Gendron, Fisher and Vogel, together with Alfred Gendron and L. V. Dusseau, have established a large factory in Toronto, Ontario, where they are manufacturing the same line of goods under the same patents obtained in Canada. This Company is known as the Gendron Manufacturing Company, of which Peter Gendron is President. Mr. Gendron has passed a remarkably busy career in Toledo, and while his reputation as a progressive business man has been gained by hard personal toils, he holds an equally good place in the opinion of all who know him as a good citizen, ready to assist worthy enterprises. Mr. Gendron is a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, of which he is a Trustee. He has a family of two childrena daughter, Delima, born June 6, 1870, and a son, Adolph, born August 28, 187'7.
MILBURN WAGON WORKS.-In 1873 the Milburn Wagon Co. of Mishawaka, Indiana, one of the most successful establishments, proposed to remove its works and transfer its business to Toledo, provided a local subscription of stock to the amount of $300,000 be added to a like amount to be represented by the existing property and business. The matter received prompt attention from prominent citizens, who met May 2, 1873, and appointed a committee, consisting of Wesley J. Wells, F. J. King and C. P. Griffin, to solicit subscriptions to the proposed capital stock. At four P. m. the same day, at an adjourned meeting, the committee reported the total amount of $300,000 subscribed or guaranteed. Whereupon, one committee was appointed to select a site for the Works, and another to prepare the necessary papers, including articles of incorporation.
June 14th, the Milburn Wagon Company of Toledo was organized by the election of George Milburn, John Milburn, Geo. R. Hudson, John H. Whitaker, W. W. Griffith, A. L. Kelsey and Wm. Baker, as Directors, who chose Geo. Milburn, as President; J. H. Whitaker, as Vice President; and G. R. Hudson, as Secretary and Treasurer. June 24th the Directors decided upon the site for the Works, consisting of 32 acres of land, on Monroe Street and the Detroit Branch of the Lake Shore Railway, of which eight acres was donated by Amasa Bishop, five acres purchased of same, and 19 acres purchased of T. P. Whitney, for which 24 acres $30,000 was paid. Steps were at once taken toward the provision of the necessary buildings. Ground was broken September 9, 1873, and operations in the factory commenced in the Spring of 1875. September 29, 1876, a disastrous fire destroyed one of the largest buildings, at a loss of $167,954, with $84,000 of insurance. In December, 1877, another fire destroyed half of the same building. Up to 1877 the Company manufactured only farm Wagons. In that year spring Wagons and Buggies were added, and in 1878 this branch of the business was largely increased. This extension in operations has continued to this time, and the Company now manufactures full lines of farm, freight and general teaming Wagons; buggies, carriages and spring Wagons; together with delivery and express Wagons, Trucks and Drays. Its trade extends to all parts of the United States, and to some foreign countries. It has prosperous branches at Albany, Minneapolis, Omaha, DesMoines, Chicago, Austin and San Antonio, Texas; with depots at Atlanta, Ga., Kansas City, Denver, San Francisco, St. Louis, and Peoria, Illinois.
The chief' officers of this Company have been as follows:
President, Geo. Milburn, 1873-80; J. B. Baldy, 1880-88; Vice President, J. El. Whitaker, 1873-82, and Bernard Meilink, 1882-88; Secretary and Treasurer, Geo. R. Hudson, 1873-77 (when the two offices were separated); Treasurer, Geo. P. Hudson, 1877-88; Secretary, J. K. Milburn, 1877-8; Frank D. Suydain, 1878-88.
EUGENE FONTAINE was born near Quebec, Canada, in 1834. He is of French parentage. His childhood passed without even ordinary educational privileges, and with very limited advantages of other kinds necessary to qualify one for life's struggle. At the age of 16 years, he left home, with scarcely a rudi-
794 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
mentary education, and able to speak the English language to but limited extent. Going to Rouse's Point, New York, he engaged as an apprentice in the machine shop of the Ogdensburg Railroad, where his native mechanical genius was soon developed. At the end of three years, he left that establishment, and spent an equal length of time in travel, visiting California, Australia, China and South America. Returning, he visited New Orleans, and soon took charge of a machine shop at Algiers, remaining there one year. He then went to Montreal, Canada, where he remained for a year in a state of health unfitting him for work of any kind. In the Fall of 1858, he began running a locomotive between Montreal and Rouse's Point, that being the first steam engine he ever had seen, on the occasion of his first visit there eight years previously. Serving in that capac ity for two years, he found employment as Foreman in the machine shops of the Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne and Chicago Railroad, at Ft. Wayne. In 1859 he took charge of an Express engine on that road, and continued in like service for 14 years, with success, being specially assigned to the most important trains, and during the period named traveling over 600,000 miles, with remarkable exemption from accident to his trains and without injury to himself. His leisure hours during all this period were largely spent in studying out and devising inventions which were subsequently matured, and have given him prominence in the mechanical world. His first results consisted of improvements in locomotives and cars. In 1866 he invented a locomotive smoke-stack for wood burning, which was extensively used and known as the Fontaine Stack. In 1866 he had patented a live stock car, with movable floors for making two decks, which was sold to the Montgomery Palace Stock-Car Company of New York for a large sum. He had then invented an automatic fire-alarm, which came into extensive use. Then he devised a wood machine for the manufacture of pins; and in 1872 he organized a Pin Factory at Valparaiso, Indiana, with a capital of $100,000, he acting as President for two years. He then went to Detroit, and there organized the National Pin Company (yet in existence), of which he was the Superintendent until 1882. Nearly all the valuable machinery of this establishment was the product of his inventive skill. Early in his Railroad experience, he became impressed with the importance of provision for increased Railway speed. Such object he provided for in 1880, by the application of power to an upper driver wheel, to act by friction upon one below. With the financial aid of others, this plan was developed at the Grant Locomotive Works, Paterson, New Jersey, under his personal supervision, in the construction of a Fontaine engine, which at once commanded the attention of Railway managers, while the press made known to the world the extraordinary qualities of the machine. Its chief peculiarity consisted in the fact, that by it the power was applied by a single rod on each side, running from the cylinder to a large drive-wheel located immediately above the front driver of an ordinary locomotive. The upper drive-wheel was of the same dimensions as of the lower one, and thus applied the principle of large and small pulleys. Trial trips with this appliance demonstrated its capacity for making faster time than bad been attained. The passage between Amherstburg and St. Thomas, Canada (111 miles), was made in the unparalleled space of 98 minutes. Subsequently, a single mile was made in 42 seconds, which yet stands as the fastest movement on record. The Scientific American, of November 5, 1881, spoke of the improvement as one that " could not fail to give a notable impetus to the advancement of Railway engineering, and to the social and commercial changes incident to increased facilities for rapid transit." Two other like engines were manufactured and successfully used. While the work performed by the Fontaine engine, as measured by speed, weight of train, fuel consumed and economy in maintenance, excelled all other like machines, the inventor and those interested with him, failed to convince Railway managers and mechanical experts of its durability, or that greater power was supplied by the application of one driving-wheel upon another, than that received through the piston. Mr. Fontaine has never yielded his belief that thorough trial would have more fully vindicated his theory. While at Detroit, he invented a needle-making machine of complicated construction, capable of making 60 perfect needles ready for tempering per minute, an entirely new operation. In 1882 he was instrumental in organizing in New York the American Needle Company, with a capital of $500,000, of which he was the Superintendent for 18 months, when, for lack of financial management, the enterprise was discontinued. In 1883, Mr. Fontaine came to Toledo, and organized the Great Western Pin Company, whose establishment is located near the Milburn Wagon Works, and whose operations have been attended with success. All the machinery there employed is of his invention. Each machine makes 400 pins per minute, being nearly double the capacity of any other machine; while another contrivance sticks in paper 2,700 pins per minute. Mr. Fontaine's latest invention consists of a contrivance for making a continuous rail where one track crosses another. The crossing consists of four short pieces of rail, mounted on iron posts, firmly resting on stone foundations. One position of these rails makes a continuous line over one of the Roads, and by a simple contrivance they can be turned in quadrant, making rail for the intersecting track. These four pieces are also connected with a signal indicating their
STATISTICS. - 795
positions. The Fontaine Crossing and Signal Company has been organized for the manufacture in Toledo of these appliances. Beside the inventions already named, is the nail machine recently perfected. It makes 500 nails per minute, against 200 heretofore produced. Machines are made for making nails from five eighths of an inch to three inches in Length, each being adjusted for four different sizes. No less than 41 patents have been granted to Mr. Fontaine, a record rarely attained. Though comparatively a new citizen of Toledo, the special prominence gained by him in the great field of mechanical and useful invention, and especially his identification with local enterprises, entitle him to recognition in this volume. Mr. Fontaine was married in 1851 with Catharine Waite, of Rouse's Point, New York. They have five children-Eugene Henry, born June 20, 1854, now studying mechanical engineering in Europe ; Georgie, the wife of George A. Fry, of Fort Wayne, born June 26, 1860 ; Lillie, wife of D. M. Stewart, of Chicago, born January 22, 1863; Eugenie, born September 6, 1865, and William Alfred, born May 12, 1872.
INDUSTRIAL STATISTICS.
We give below a tabular statement of the Industries of the City of Toledo for the years 1850, 1860, and 1880, comprising the different kinds of business, the number of establishments of each, the capital invested, the average number of hands employed, the average yearly wages paid and the value of the product. Also, the cost of the material is included in the statement for 1880.
CHARTS NOT SCANNED
796 - HISTORY ON TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
STRIKES.
The most extensive and serious "strike" in this country (to that time) was that of Railway employees in the summer of 1877. Beginning on the Baltimore and Ohio Railway in West Virginia, about the 20th of July, the outbreak extended throughout that line, and very soon reached the Pennsylvania Road. Pittsburgh was the scene of the most deadly contest between the riotous << strikers " and their employers and the civil authorities. July 21st, a conflict occurred in which 20 persons were killed and a large number wounded. Among the former was the Sheriff of Allegheny County, and of the latter General Pearson, commanding the State troops called out to preserve order. The rioters at one time held the entire Eastern portion of the City. Special efforts were made for the destruction of the Railroad Company's property, by burning cars, freight, and buildings. It was estimated that the loss from this cause amounted to several millions of dollars.
The New York Central and Lake Shore line soon became involved, as did most of the roads in the North and West. The movement was inaugurated at Toledo at 1 o'clock P. M. of July 23d, when, under the lead of parties from Cleveland, about 100 men entered the Railroad Shops at Air Line Junction, shut down the engine and ordered the workmen to quit, which they did. Very soon the employees in the warehouses, yards and freight-houses joined the movement, and operations in every department were suspended.
The prime cause of this uprising was the reduction of 10 per cent, in wages. The freight-house and track men received $1.00 per day, and switchmen $34 per month. It was also said that passes had been denied to employees, for special trips while on the line, and the doubling-up of trains, whereby some were thrown out of employment while others were required to do additional service. The Engineers chiefly complained of a new classification system adopted, which they claimed would operate unjustly on them.
On the part of the employees, it was demanded
First-That the classification of engineers be abolished forever. Second-That the rate of pay for engineers be $3.50 for 100 miles or less. Third-that the rate of pay for firemen be $1.75 per 100 miles. Fourth-that firemen and brakemen be furnished passes on the division where they work. Fifth-that trainmen be paid overtime for all detentions of 10 hours on the Erie Division, and of 12 hours on the Toledo Division, at the regular rate per day. Sixth -that the 10 per cent. reduction be restored to all employees. Seventh-That the Erie Division workmen receive $1.75 per 100 miles or less. Eighth that no men be discharged for participating in this movement. That yard conductors receive $2.50 per day ; yard day brakemen $2.00; and night brakemen $2.15. That Toledo Division conductors and brakemen receive pay as previous to June 1, 1877. Eleventh-that any deviation in part from these terms, be considered a deviation in the whole.
A large meeting of strikers and sympathizers was held in the Fifth Ward July 23d, which was addressed by different persons in spirit and terms calculated to justify the movement and inflame passion to greater lawlessness. The main result of the meeting was the adoption of the following resolution
Resolved, That we request every laboring man to join a Laboring Men's organization that shall cooperate and sympathize with the Railroad men who have struck. And further, that every laboring man shall abstain from working until he receives $1.50 per day. And also that we appoint a committee of three laboring men from each Ward, to call upon the proprietors or managers of all factories, lumber yards, and firms, and request them to pay their hands $1.50 per day, and inform them that until they do, their hands will not work.
In accordance with these resolutions, such committee of 24 was appointed and the meeting adjourned until the next morning, when a large crowd assembled at the United States Hotel and organized for the proposed visitation, by the selection of a leader. The procession embraced about 200 men. They proceeded from Perry down Water street to the Pennsylvania Railroad depot, stopping on the way to call upon such as they found at work to fall into line, which many did. On reaching a factory or other establishment employing hands, the leader would go in and demand a suspension of work. Usually the foreman would say in substance: " But our men are satisfied with their wages. What will be the result if they keep on at work?" The leader would reply " It makes no difference whether your men are
STRIKES. - 797
satisfied or not. No one is to work until a are satisfied, and all are getting uniform an equitable wages. You keep on working ti further notice at your own risk. You take your chances." At another place the lead said to the foreman : " You must shut down and don't you open again, either. So don't kick about
The mob passed from street to street, carrying terror wherever they went. It met no resistance at any point. The air was full rumors of what the leaders designed to do in violence and plunder. No such condition o alarm had been known to the City. Amon the establishments visited were S. C. Sehenck's Coal Yard, Walterhouse's Lumber Yard, Loeb's Stone Works, David Smith's Saw Mill, Ainslie & Masten's Iron Foundry, Russell & Thayer', Foundry, the Bending Works, and Haughton Kneisser's Machine Works. The march continued from 10 A. M. until about 3 P. M., When it was suspended, for the reason that all place, were found closed after that hour.
At night. the mob marched to the Board o Trade building (corner of Water and Madison Streets), with threats toward dealers in grain or other food property, but committed no act of violence. Thence they proceeded to the office of the Commercial (152 St. Clair Street) with the intention of forcing a suspension of work there, that paper having been specially out-spoken in disapproval of their proceedings; but such purpose was not executed.
Upon the call of Mayor Jones, a large meeting was held at Market Space (between Monroe and Washington Streets), on the evening of this demonstration (July 25th), when the Mayor presided, and brief addresses were made by Messrs. J. C. Lee, C. W. Bond, the Mayor, J. C. Coffman, J. R. Swigart and others. There was tut evident effort by the lawless to defeat the object of the meeting, but that did not succeed. A resolution was adopted, requesting the Mayor to appoint a Committee of Safety, to consist of not less than 20 from each Ward, whose duty it was made to enroll the law-abiding citizens of the several Wards, and to assist the authorities in sustaining order. The same night the Police Board passed an order for the immediate closing of all saloons in the City, they to be kept closed until further order. The Mayor very soon announced the Committee of Safety proposed by the meeting of citizens, which was is follows:
First Ward-S. S. Thorn, W. W. Cook, Fred. Wither, Win. Baker, J. R. Seney, J. E. Bailey, A. T. Hathaway, M. W. Hubbell, J. T. Greer, J. M. Ritchie, Geo. Mack, Ignace Wernert, C. C. Doolittle, J. W. Fuller, Edward Chapin, A. L. Backus, C. L. Luce, Hartwell Osborn, V. J. Emmick, A. G. Clark.
Second Ward-N. A. Eggleston, J. F. Kinnear, H. A. Chamberlin, C. L. Young, B. Meilink, L. W. Foster, S. H. Bergen, Phil. Blank, J. C. Wuerfel, A. H. Newcomb, Jos. Heinl, S. S. Linton, E. A. Bassett, P. C. Moross, Thos. Dunlap, Henry Spielbusch, Alex. Weber, E. B. Paine, G. H, Fisher, Fred. Gratz.
Third Ward- C. R. Heath, R. H. Bell, Geo. Emerson, P. H. Dowling, A. D. Pelton, Chas. Meyers, C. H. Coy, C. G. Winfield, H. Arms, R. H. Warriner, J. W. Smith, A. E. Rood, Fred. Smith, Calvin Cone, Peter Wachter, Vincent Hamilton, M. Lyons, W. T. Ridenour, Wm. B. Taylor, F. W. Preston, W. W. Tryon, D. B. Sturgeon, Langdon Smith, N. M. Howard, S. M. Young, F. J. King, T. M. Cook, E. R. Williams, Albert Moore, John Schunk, J. H. Nolen, J. T. Southard, S. H. Standart, C. F. Curtis, S. Groff, Nathaniel Haughton, Thos. Tiernan, E. T. Waite.
Fourth Ward- Rev. Edward Hannin, Guido Marx, f Roger Sheehy, Fred. Lang, Sr., W. W. Griffith, Christ. Woehler, James McGettigan, J. W. Toullerton, Chas. Dodge, C. S. Curtis, Geo. Meissner, Horace Thacher, Jr., Jon Daiber, Wm. Breed, John Huberich, J. T. Maher, Chas. Wittich, R. S. Jennings, Frank Neis, H. G. Neubert, James McVery, Geo. Brenner.
Fifth Ward-J. E. Phelps, Cyrus Spencer. Homer e Bishop, Ed. Otto, Amos S. Kent, Bernard Kline, R. D. Niles, A. W. Judkins, P. Christie, Robert Hunter, L N. Poe, Geo. Stebbins, J. D. Ford, Geo. Vetter, S. W. Freeman, E. P. Raymond, L. Fritz, C. Richardson, F. E. Seagrave, Dennis Fey, C. H. Sawyer, D. Leary James Sullivan, M. Higgins, J. S. Graham, s Dennis Sheahan, P. Garry, James Coyle, Pat. Murray, Frank Tillman, Ferdinand ,Johnson.
Sixth Ward--L. A. Metzger. H. N. Howland, T. J. Webb, Chris. Meslin, Frank Tracy, Robert Navarre, Wm. Prentice, J. H. Emery, Geo. Scheets, J. A. Brown, Joab Squire, F. P. Wilson. John Mack, Fred. Jaeger, W. W. Morse, Geo. Jee, Willis E. Clark, Erle Hamilton, Richard Dawkins, Bernard Laucto, Arnold McMahon, M. T. Huntley, H. McGraw, Henry Hulce, Elias Fassett.
Seventh, Ward--W. J. Meyer, John Karm, Peter Herber, Jacob Harbauer, M. Merickle, Wm. Henzler, M. McLaughlin, H. F. Cook, Wm. Hook, N. Neuhausel, C. J. Kirschner, Philip Hoffemeister, W. T. Walker, A. A. Andrews, Jr., Jacob Romeis, Chris. Gerber, J. R. Lawton, J. W. Kelsey, Geo. Milmine, .J. Hakios, Geo. G. Keeler.
Eighth Ward-Owen Farrell, E. B. Hall, C. H. Eddy, T. P. Brown, Pat. Horan, James Malone, S. L. Stanthorpe, Syl. Donahue, Andrew Nesbitt, John Tallman, Anthony Eagan, Pat. Madden, Wm. Gorman, Michael Geelan, Adolph Wolf, M. Lotterer, Pat. Owens, Sr., D. W. Stroud, John Walsh, Theo. Golden, David Bolan, Henry Lang, Henry Peiter.
Upon the call of Sheriff Albert Moore, a meeting was held at the Court-House on the morning of time 26th of July, for more thorough organization ill support of the Committee provided for at the meeting the night before. To this end, a three of Citizen Soldiery was raised for the common defense. Seven Companies were organized for regular military drill and patrol, and were made up largely of ex-Union Soldiers. They were under command of Colonel Nat. Haughton, with Lieutenant-Colonel Geo. E. Welles, Aide H. D. Waite, and Adjutant Randolph Miner. The Captains of the several Companies were as follows: First Company, .1. W. White; Second Company, P. H. Dowling; Third Company, J. R. Swigart; Fourth Company, L. F. Lyttle; Fifth Company, C. W. Everett; Sixth Company, D. R.. Hunt; Seventh Company, H. G. Neubert. Major E. O. Brown commanded the Shot-gun Company; and E. H. Chase the Pistol Squad.
This force was at once armed, and took the field against the mob. The result was, that
798 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
within 24 hours the City was restored to general quiet, and in another day the Railroads were relieved, order restored, and business generally left to its peaceful course.
It is due to the Railway employes here to state, that the more serious features of that movement in Toledo, was not so much their work, as that of resident parties, who seized upon the occasion for gratifying their passions and promoting their selfish ends. But for these classes, the work of the strikers would have been confined to the suspension of operations on the Railways, and the City saved the terrible experience and consequences far more terrible, so memorable in its history.
In discussing the subject of " labor as a market commodity," in connection with this strike, the Toledo Commercial then gave a table, showing the comparative prices of provisions and cotton goods in Toledo at that time and in 1864; and also a table showing comparative rates for Railway transportation for like periods. These tables were as follows:
A strike among the stevedores at Toledo in July, 1862, was attended by a degree of excitement and violence at that time without precedent in the City. It seems that a portion of such employees on the docks and vessels had proposed a movement for an increase of wages, and in order the more readily to enforce their demand, they forbade the employment of Colored men in such capacity. July 8th, the strikers attacked the Colored laborers and with clubs and stones drove them from the dock. In the course of the proceedings two negroes were seriously injured, and one of the mob was stabbed by a Colored man whom he was assaulting. A prompt rally of citizens with such arms as they could find, aided very much in suppressing the riot, but not before several small residences of Colored people in no way connected with the trouble had been attacked and injured. Prominent in the resistance made to the mob, was Rev. Father Boff, then Pastor of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. He hastened to the dock, and to other points wherever his efforts could be employed in restoring peace. Several of the rioters were arrested, tried and punished.
A strike somewhat peculiar in its source, occurred in the Toledo Commercial office, July 21,1868. It grew out of a regulation established by the proprietors (Clark Waggoner & Son), on assuming ownership of the paper, in September, 1866, under which labor was wholly suspended on Sunday. The Commercial was issued in the morning; and instead of stopping work on Saturday and resuming on Sunday, as then was, and still is, the common practice in such cases, operations were continued through the day on Saturday and until 11:30 P. M. and resumed at 12:30 A. M. Monday. Meantime all labor in connection with the establishment was forbidden. Such arrangement being a radical innovation on usage, and involving with employees the inconvenience of sitting up until midnight or arising at that hour, a portion of them protested against it, and finally were successful in organizing a strike based thereon. The Toledo Printers' Union was induced to lend its auspices for such movement, which chiefly was the work of itinerants. The strike occurred on Sunday night, but with prompt assistance from the Blade office, Monday's issue, though somewhat late, and somewhat reduced in amount of reading matter, nevertheless appeared, as did all succeeding issues. In a few days the strike was unconditionally abandoned, and matters resumed their wonted order. In stating the case, the Commercial said:
By the rules of the Toledo Printers' Union, 40 cents per 1,000 ems is the price to be paid for composition on Morning papers, with no provision as to the days of the week on which such labor shall be performed. We hold it to be the inevitable inference in such case, that the Union designed to act in subordination at least to the laws of the State, and did not intend to require its members to labor on Sunday, or their employers to have their work done on that day leaving that question to the mutual arrangement of the parties. * * Yet, it is claimed, that the Union has undertaken to do just that thing-going even so far as to demand, that no member shall hold a situation in an establishment that refuses to pay a extra price for doing its work according to what its proprietors consider the laws of God and of man.
Recognizing the fact of some inconvenience to employees of the office, involved in the suspension of labor on the Sabbath, the proprietors, when the strike had been fully suppressed, voluntarily made extra allowance therefor, which was continued so long as they conducted the paper, and until the aggregate of such bonus had amounted to fully $1,000.