542 - HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY.

CHAPTER XVIII.

THE LEADING PAST AND PRESENT MANUFACTURING INTERESTS OF KENTON-

FLOUR MILLS-KENTON FOUNDRY AND MACHINE WORKS-SAW AND WOOLEN

MILLS-COOPER SHOP AND STAVE FACTORY-BREWERIES-CARRIAGE

AND WAGON SHOPS-MARBLE WORKS-PORK PACKING HOUSE-PLAN-

ING, SCROLL MILLS AND LUMBER YARDS-TANNERIES-IRON

FENCE COMPANIES-SCIOTO STRAW BOARD COMPANY-KEN-

TON GAS COMPANY-KENTON WATER WORKS COMPANY-

DICKSON'S GRAND OPERA HOUSE -BANKS-TELE-

GRAPH, TELEPHONE AND EXPRESS OFFICES-

THE SCIOTO IMPROVEMENT-HOTELS-

DESCRIPTIVE REVIEW OF KENTON

IN 1883-CONCLUSION.

DURING the first years in the history of Kenton, little was done toward building up its manufacturing interests. It is true that many of the early settlers brought with them to their new homes in the wilderness, bordering the Scioto, a knowledge of the most useful trades, and some of them began at once to manufacture, on a small scale, those articles which the pioneer times demanded. We find that William Furney and Emi P. Hurd opened blacksmith and repair shops; James Elam and Luther Damon made furniture, the former being soon succeeded by James Faught and Emanuel Shoard; Andrew Barnes and Hugh Letson were the pioneer tailors; Robert B. Truman began to make boots and shoes; Robert Smith, Ezra I. Williams, James Scott, James Johnson and James Moffat followed the carpenter business; Jacob Pine manufactured brick; William Ferguson operated a tan yard; and John Kaiser carried on the batting trade, making to order the head gear of the pioneers. Doubtless a few others were for a time engaged in ministering to the wants of the settlers by plying some of the trades; but the names given are those best remembered by the few pioneers or their descendants who are vet left to tell the story of those early days. The reader will bear in mind that, with the passing years, some factories, or rather shops, have come and gone. leaving no impress upon the minds of the citizens, and giving little or no impetus to the town in their fleeting career. It is not our intention to speak of such, but only to mention those that proved a boon to the pioneers or have done most during the past and present in enhancing the wealth, growth and prosperity of Kenton.

Ross Grist Mill.- In 1833-34, Co1. John Ross settled on a farm north of Kenton, where he lived until about 1839 or 1840, when he erected a two story frame grist mill, 30x40 feet, on the northeast corner of Wayne street and the alley immediately north of G. R. Moore's residence. It had two run of buhrs, was operated by horse-power and was one of those primitive concerns that did the grinding for the pioneers ere the more modern mills were built. Most of the early settlers in this vicinity patronized the "old Ross Mill," carrying their small grists of corn or wheat On horseback, and often waiting until it was ground, so that the little ones who were anxiously

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wishing for a corn cake or biscuit might be made happy. This mill was run till 1849-50, when the machinery was taken out, and it is now used a, a residence, though much resembling "the haunted house of old."

Snow Cloud Mills. - In 1844, John Espy erected a frame distillery oil the site of the "Snow Cloud Mill," which stands on South Main street, near the north bank of the Scioto River. He operated this distillery over a year before he erected the flour mill, having his grinding done at the old Ross Mill on Wayne street. In 1846, the present "Snow Cloud Mills" were built by Mr. Espy and operated by him in connection with the distillery, until 1854, when he sold out to James Davis. The engines and boilers of this mill were hauled with teams from Mount Vernon, Ohio. and it is said to have been the first steam flour mill of Hardin County. In 1849, the boilers were taken out and used as chimneys until 1881, and sold for old iron in the winter of 1882-83. After Mr. Davis, several parties owned the property, but, in the spring of 1881, Thomas Espy purchased the interest of George Leighton. and, during the summer, remodeled the whole concern. He, however, left in the old machinery which his father had put there during his ownership, and the same old engine, purchased ill 1846, still furnishes the power for grinding. The distillery ceased operations about the close of the war. The mill is now owned by Conrad Ochs, is three stories high, and has a capacity of thirty-five- barrels every twenty-four hours.

Kenton Mills. --In 1866, John Espy and William Ochs began erection of a four-storied frame flouring mill on the northwest corner of Main and Walnut streets. It is 56x66 feet, with a brick engine room 25x50 feet. Espy & Ochs operated this mill till 1868, when Mr. Espy sold his interest, and soon afterward his son Thomas assumed his place in the firm Thomas Espy and William Ochs ran the mill until the incorporation of the "Kenton Milling Company," February 5, 1880. who have since operate the concern in connection with the "Espy Mills." In the spring of 1882 the complete Hungarian roller process was put into the mill, which has now a capacity of 125 barrels every twenty-four hours.

Espy Mills. -In the fall of 1878, John Espy bought a site for a new mill on the southwest corner of Detroit and Walnut. streets, a portion o which was occupied by the woolen mill. Mr. Espy arranged his plans for the erection of the structure, but ere they were carried into effect he was taken sick and died. In the spring of 1879, Thomas Espy took up hi father's unfinished work. and erected the fine brick building known as the "Espy Mills." This enterprise was operated by him until the organization of the Kenton Milling Company, February 5, 1880, Thomas Espy, President; John C. Ochs, Secretary; Thomas Espy, William Ochs, J. F. Gramlich, H. M. Shingle and W. B. Gramlich, stockholders, with a capital stock of $80,000. In the winter of 1882-83, the complete Hungarian roller process was put into this mill, giving it a capacity of 250 barrels ever twenty-four hours. The building is four stories high, 50x80 feet, with a engine room 25x50 feet. As already mentioned, the "Kenton Milling Company" operate both the Kenton and Espy Mills, employing altogether twenty-five men.

The only flouring mill, besides those already mentioned, that has ever been operated in Kenton was erected in 1848-49 on the southeast corner of Franklin and Mill streets, by Christopher Kautz, Peter Grassley and Michael Wolf. It was subsequently purchased by Nelson Miller, who sold it in 1852 to John Pfeiffer. A distillery was also operated in connection with this mill, and,

514 - HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY.

after running both until 1865, Mr. Pfeifer sold out to James M White, who about a year afterward disposed of the property to the Schindewolf Brothers. They operated both mill and distillery until 1868, when they ceased business and sold the machinery. John Pfeiffer again became owner of the building and lot, which, in 1869, were bought by William Campbell and converted into a stave factory. The old structure was burned down in 1872-73.

Kenton Foundry and Machine Works.- In 1844, Earhart Bloom established a small foundry on the southeast corner of Main and North streets, and there, on the 3d of May, 1845, he made the castings of the first plow ever manufactured in Hardin County. In 1856, Mr. Bloom erected the present two-story brick machine shop on Main street, immediately in front of the old frame foundry. It is 26x54 feet, and here he began with eight hands to manufacture the different classes of work commonly turned out of such factories. Soon after, he built the brick foundry and blacksmith shop, 30x80 feet, on the site of the old foundry, and carried on the business until June, 1877, when he sold out the machinery and furnishings to Lewis Bloom, John W. Born and David Newcomb, under the firm names of Bloom, Born & Co. In 1878, the new firm erected a one-story brick office and engine room. They manufacture brick presses, field roller, sawing machines, etc., employ ten hands and do an annual business of $15,000, a large part of their trade being repairing.

Saw Mills. - John G. Ott and Peter Grassley erected a steam saw-mill in 1841-42, on East Columbus street, nearly opposite the new school building, which they ran several years, then moved it across the Scioto River, and immediately east of Solomon Kraner's residence, on the river bank. In 1854, it was removed to North Washington, and there continued in operation for many years. This was, doubtless, the first saw-mill operated in Kenton, and must have supplied a long felt want in this vicinity.

In 1845-46, Dr. U. P. Leighton built two saw-mills on the south bank of the Scioto River. The first one was located on the site of the waterworks reservoir, and the other at the north end of the old fair ground, where a dam was constructed across the river. He ran these mills for six years or more, but they proved a financial loss to him, and after renting one to B. R. Brunson for a short time, both were abandoned and subsequently torn down. The experiment demonstrated the fact that water mills did not pay in this vicinity, and that they could not successfully compete with those operated by steam. In 1847, James Faught built a steam sawmill on the south bank of the old channel of the Scioto, and immediately east of where Detroit intersects Espy street. It passed into the hands of John P. Holliday, who sold it to John Espy in 1854. Mr. Espy ran it about twelve years, when he disposed of it to William Sheppard. He continued to operate the mill for a couple of years, when it ceased business and was subsequently torn down.

Hiram Kettle, A. N. Kettle and C. H. Curl, under the firm name of H. & A. N. Kettle & Co., built a frame saw-mill south of the Scioto River, between the Round Head pike and the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western Railroad, in March, 1873. This firm ran the mill until 1879, when C. H. Curl became sole proprietor. In 1880, Kallison Collins obtained an interest, and the firm of Curl & Collins has since carried on the business. They buy native hard woods, employ sixteen hands, and their sales average $12,000 per annum. The works contain saw, planing and scroll Machinery and do a fair share of the business in their line.

HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY - 547

Kenton Woolen Mills.-About 1846-47, Gilbert Seamon erected a woolen mill on the south side of North street between Main and Detroit. He afterward added a planer to the mill, which was the first operated in Kenton. After remaining here about ten years, he built the "Kenton Woolen Mills " on South Detroit street. In 1878, these mills were purchased by John Espy for the purpose of getting a site for the present Espy flouring mill. The woolen mills were in operation until 1882, when they were closed and have not been running since that time. The property is owned by the "Kenton Milling Company," and will, doubtless, be opened whenever the markets will justify the manufacture of woolen goods in this locality. The machinery, however, is old, and would require considerable financial outlay ere it could successfully compete with the more modern constructed mills.

Cooper Shop.-In 1851, George Kane purchased the old Methodist Episcopal Church which stood on the southeast corner of Ohio and Wayne streets. and began the manufacture of barrels, buckets, and all classes of cooper work. He ran it about a year, then sold out to William Campbell. The old frame structure was burned down in the fall of 1879, and, the following year, Mr. Campbell erected the present brick shop on the old site, where he employs seven hands.

Stave Factory - In 1869, William Campbell purchased the building on the southwest corner of Franklin and Mill streets previously used as a flouring mill and distillery. He fitted it up for a stave factory and occupied it in the manufacture of stares until the fire of 1872-73 destroyed the building and machinery. He immediately built the present factory, 40x80 feet, with an engine room 20x40 feet. It is the first and only stave factory ever established in Kenton, covers a quarter of a block, gives employment to twelve hands, and the annual sales average over $20,000.

Breweries, - In 1851, Joshua Holzwarth erected a frame brewery on West Franklin street and ran it until 1858, when he sold out to Francis Quis. Soon after, John Steiner became a partner in the business, and subsequently Henry Meyer bought the interest of Mr. Quis. In 1864, Philip Fisher and Fred Rost purchased the brewery of Steiner, who had become sole proprietor, and, after some four or five years' partnership, Fisher bought out Rost. He continued to operate tile brewery during the succeeding two years, but, in the mean time, began the erection of another brewery some die tance west of the old one. Before it was finished, he took in Joseph Wolf as a partner, and, together, they ran the business for about three years, when Fisher sold his interest to Jacob Movers. It was operated by Wolf & Mover, until the death of the latter, which dissolved the partnership. The brewery has not since been operated by Mr. Wolf, but Lentz & Roffer made beer there about three years, also Knox & Sturtz, one year. The building is still owned by Mr. Wolf and occupied by G. M. Wagner as a pop factory. After Mr. Fisher disposed of his interest to Jacob Meyers. he built a small brewery on the north bank of the Scioto River, just south of Young's lumber yard. which has been owned and operated since 1876 by Anthony Kayser, who erected the two-story brick addition, after coming into possession of the property.

Carriage and Wagon Factories.-In 1845, Harris Pool started a small shop on the corner of Franklin and Cherry streets, which he ran until 1849, at which time he went to California, and his brother William succeeded him in the business, another brother, John, subsequently becoming a partner. In 1858, they erected a part of the present factory on the

548 - HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY

southwest corner of Franklin and Wayne streets, which has been enlarged through the passing years whenever the growth of business demanded more room. In 1867, Theodore Schrador obtained an interest in the firm, and under the name of Schrador &, Pool, began the manufacture of light work. In 1871, Mr. Schrador retired from the firm. which then became Pool Brothers, and has so remained up to the present. The main factory is a two-story brick, 33x100 feet, with a frame show-room, 25x33 feet. Twelve hands are employed in this factory, and their annual sales of new work average about $7,000.

About 1848 or 1849, Day Pugh started a blacksmith shop on the south side of Columbus street, between Detroit and Market, and soon afterward, Francis Meyers erected a two-storied frame building, adjoining, for a wagon shop. In a short time, Pugh bought the factory of Meyers and for about four years continued the manufacture of carriages and wagons, then abandoned the business, and C. C. Drake carried it on for a short time in this shop.

In the spring of 1853, Isaac Bolenbaugh began the manufacture of wagons, etc., on the east side of North Detroit street. He carried on the business for six years, turning out from two to three wagons per week and employing seven hands. He sold out to his brother Daniel, who ran the factory for two years, when, on account of the great amount of work that about that time began to be shipped in from the larger factories, the business became unprofitable and the shop was closed.

Elias Collins opened a small shop, in 1859, on the southwest corner of Ohio and Detroit streets. His business gradually assumed larger proportions, and, in 1873, he erected a two-story brick building, 26x60 feet, wherein he manufactured buggies, wagons, etc., his annual sales running up to $12,000. Across the street from his shop was a two-storied frame showroom, the second story being also used for a workshop. In the past few years, he has almost abandoned putting up new work, and now keeps a general repair shop.

Henry Kaiser began business in 1864, on North Main street, but, in 1873, he removed to his present location on the northeast corner of Columbus and Wayne streets, where he has since been engaged in the manufacture of the better class of buggies and light carriages. His factory is 84x84 feet, partially brick and frame, wherein twelve hands find employment, the annual sales amounting to about $10,000.

In 1871, Theodore Schrador and R. K. Gravell started a carriage shop on the corner of Ohio and Main streets, which was operated until 1874, when the firm failed and the partnership was dissolved. In 1875, O. E. Gravell opened a shop on Wayne street, between Franklin and Columbus, but, in 1876, he retired in favor of C. S. Gravell, who ran the business until 1879, when R. K. Gravell became sole proprietor. In 1880, he erected hire present fine twostory brick factory, 50x60 feet, on the old site, where twelve hands find employment. in turning out all classes of buggies, carriages and wagons, his sales averaging $15,000 per annum.

J. J. Magly and John Parkinson opened a wagon shop on East Columbus street, in 1867, but subsequently Samuel Magly and Conrad Euler bought out Mr. Parkinson. In 1874, the Magly Brothers removed to their present shop on Cherry street, where they have since carried on business.

Joseph Dever & Son started a general machine, wagon and repair shop on South Detroit street in March, 1870. They carried on the business for more than thirteen years, and, in the fall of 1882, erected the large two

HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY - 549

story frame building now occupied as the factory. In July, 1883, the sly was purchased by B. F. Roberts and J. M. Cramer, practical boiler maker who have added that. branch of trade to the business. Ten men find employ ment in this shop, which promises to be one of the leading manufacturing establishments of the town.

Peter Houser began business in the spring of 1877, on South Maid street. his present location. He has since continued to manufacture all classes of wagons. His shop is a twostory frame, wherein seven men fine employment,. his sales averaging $7,000 per annum, a large portion of his trade being horse-shoeing and repairing.

Kenton, Marble Works.-These works were established, in 1850, by J. D. White, on East Franklin street. and was the first marble shop opened in Kenton. He carried it on, alone, for some years, when John Howe became a partner under the firm name of White & Howe. Subsequently, C. W. Woodward was connected with the business. followed by Henry Price, who soon became associated with John Howe. After Price & Howe, came John Howe & Co. Finally, Dorr White and J. W. Brown, in 1873, purchased the works. the firm being White & Brown, and after four or five years theysold out to Holmes Wilson. In 1879, Dorr and Hence White bought out Wilson, and in April, 1880, removed to their present location on the west side of Main street, between Franklin and Ohio. The firm of D. White & Bro. employ seven hands besides themselves, and their annual sales amount to about $15,000.

In February 1880, J W.. Brown and G. W. Steinhaur started a marble works on the east side of North Detroit street, and, in April, 1881, M. D. Cunningham obtained an interest. the firm being since known as Brown, Steinhaur & Co. In the meantime, the works were removed a short distance north of their former site, and in 1882, Mr. Brown erected the present two-story brick building now occupied by the firm. The show-room is 20x50 feet, and the work shop 20x30. Their sales amount to $5,000 per annum, and, being practical workmen, they have so far managed to do all their own work.

Kenton Pork Packing House. - --In 1874, Asher Letson and Alonzo Teeters erected buildings south of the Scioto River, on the site of the paper mill, and established a house for packing pork. From 6,000 to 10,000 hoes were slaughtered annually at this house, and the business proved a great benefit to the farmers of Hardin County, as it, furnished them with a home market for their hogs. The enterprise was also looked upon with general favor by the business men of Kenton. After the death of Mr. Teeters, the business was carried on by Mr. Letson, who assumed sole ownership, but subsequently George H. Harris became a partner and the firm of Letson & Harris continued to pack pork during the proper season until the fall of 1882, when they sold the property to the Scioto Straw Board Company and retired from the business.

Kenton Planing and Scroll Mill.-In 1862, Alonzo, Augustus and Edward Bogardus put in operation a small planing mill on North Detroit street. The mill was first. run by horsepower, but steam has subsequently been introduced. In 1870, George R. Moore, David Thomson, H. N. Wheeler and Alonzo and Augustus Bogardus established an incorporated stock company under the title of the "Kenton Manufacturing & Machine Company." The factory was removed to North street. west of the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western Railroad, where it has since been operated in connection with a lumber yard. From time to time, other parties became

550 - HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY.

stockholders, but in May, 1883, the whole concern was purchased by Joseph Timmons, who adopted the name now borne by the factory. The buildings are two - storied frame structures, fitted up with machinery for getting out all classes of building material. Twenty hands are employed, among whom is Alonzo Bogardus, one of the founders of the mill. and the annual sales average $30,000.

Michigan Lumber Yard.-In 1867, Luther Furney erected a frame planing mill on the northeast corner of Ohio and Market streets, which he operated until May, 1875, when he sold out to John Callam. In connection with the mill, Mr. Furney managed a lumber yard for Edward Perrv, of Saginaw, Mich., which was bought by Mr. Callam in 1874. Early in 1876, Mr. Callain erected a portion of the present buildings, viz., the two-storied wing on the east, 45x50 feet, and. in 1878, built the main threestoried building, 50x65 feet, together with a two-story engine room. 24x45 feet. and a one-story drying room, 20x60 feet. The mill is the finest structure of the sort in Kenton, and is furnished throughout with the most improved machinery. The lumber yard is immediately west of the mill. between Market street and the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western Railroad. Mr. Callam handles all classes of building material, also coal. employs thirty-five hands, and his yearly sales average $180000.

Young Bros.' Lumber Yard.-In 1869, William H. and James Young, under the firm name of Young Brothers, purchased an old saw-mill, erected and operated by William Sheppard. which stool on the north bank of the Scioto River, west of the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western Railroad. They ran this mill for a short time, then tore it down and erected their present mill, which, in connection with a hardwood lumber yard, they have since operated. This firm handles about 6,000,000 feet of lumber annually, purchasing in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee, while their selling, market, though principally in Ohio, extends to all the larger cities from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Their yard is located on Franklin street, west of the railroad. Twenty-five men find employment in the business. and their annual sales average $150,000.

N. H. Walker's Saw, Planing and .Scroll Mills were established in the fall of 1873, by C. A. Walker, on the south bank of the Scioto River, between Detroit and Main streets. He ran the business until his death, and was succeeded by N H. Walker. All classes of hardwood building material are furnished by this mill, the yard covering the whole space included between the old and new beds of the river, and extending from Detroit to Main street. The firm employs thirty-five hands, and their sales amount to about $75,000 per annum. All of their woods are purchased in Hardin County, and their principal markets are in the Eastern cities.

Scroll Factory.-In 1873, Jacob and Peter Forbing erected a frame building on Mill street, south of Franklin, and established a "scroll factory," which was destroyed by fire in 1876.. The following year, Jacob Forbing erected the present structure on Leighton street, also south of Franklin. It is a brick building, 30x50 feet, two stories high, with a one-story brick engine room attached. Mr. Forbing has since operated these works, employing from fifteen to twenty hands, and doing yearly a business of about $55,000. He buys lumber in the rough, consuming about 600,000 feet per annum; which he saws and ships to the Eastern cities. His machinery is principally intended for getting out chair stock, and his success in this business has been attained by shrewd, careful management in buying and selling. This factory was the first of the kind established in Kenton, and its growth and prosperity is unquestionably due to its energetic founder.

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Tanneries.-Edward Smith came from Marion, Ohio, to Kenton in the fall of 1840, and, the following spring, opened a tannery on the northwest corner of Main and North streets. His shop was a small frame structure, and he operated twenty vats in the tanyard. Mr. Smith carried on business until the fall of 1866. when he ceased operations and retired from the trade in Kenton. subsequently removing to the West. In 1867, Dr. W. M. Chesney built a two-story frame tannery on Market street, near the Scioto River, Chesney, Ballentine &, Co. began business therein, and carried it on for two years. They were then succeeded by Chesney & McVitty, who ran it about one year, but Dr. Chesney being the capitalist, and finding that he had already lost several thousand dollars in the enterprise, disposed of the tannery to Charles Brumm. in the spring of 1870. Mr. Brumm did n successful business for more than three years, and then sold the building for a foundry and machine shop.

In 1877, Frederick Machetanz erected his present tannery across the Scioto River on South Main street. He employs a force of three or four hands and has the reputation of manufacturing a first-class grade of leather. His tannery, though small, is the only one in Kenton, and therefore deserves mention in this article.

Ohio Wrought Iron Fence Company. - In 1872, Timothy Rogers and B. G. Devoe, being the patentees of an iron fence, interested William Moore, L. T. Hunt, Robert M. Moore, J. S. Robinson and A. W. Miller in the enterprise. These seven organized the "Ohio Wrought Iron Fence Company," which was incorporated December 28, 1872, with a capital stock of $20,000, and purchased the tannery then operated by Charles Brumm, at the foot of Market street. wherein they began business. In a short time Rogers & Devoe sold out to Moore & Hunt, who had become sale owners and divided the property then owned by the company, Mr. Moore obtaining, as his share, the foundry and machine works. He soon after sold an interest to W. J. Althauser, and the firm subsequently added to the foundry the manufacture of stoves and hollow ware. John Pfeiffer bought Althauser's interest and turned it over to his sons, John and Lewis Pfeifter, while Mr. Moore gave his to his sons, William J. and G. B. Moore. William Bales having obtained an interest, the firm became Pfeiffer, Bales & Co., who carried on a "foundry and machine repair works," until the fall of 1880, when the shop was closed. and has not since been in operation.

Champion Iron Fence Company.-In 1874, William L. Walker purchased of Timothy Ropers and B. G. Devoe an interest in a patent for an iron fence, but after making some experiments. found it absolutely worthless. Messrs. Walker and Devoe then went to work and improved the fence, got patents issued to Walker & Devoe, and established a factory on Franklin street, west of the railroad. In 1875, Devoe sold an interest to William H. and James Young, and subsequently Henry Price obtained an interest. On the 5th of January, 1876, William L. Walker, James Young, William H. Young, B. G. Devoe and Henry Price incorporated the "Champion Fence Company," with a capital stock of $100,000. During this year, Mr. Walker sold out his interest, and Edward Crawford, of Pittsburgh, Penn., purchased a one-quarter interest in the concern. Early in 1877, the works were removed to Pittsburgh, Penn., but the riots of that year so demoralized trade that business became dull and almost ,suspended, so that, early in 1878, the company brought back the works to their former location in Kenton. On the 13th of February, 1878, James Young, William H. Young, B. G. Devoe. Henry Price anal Edward Crawford obtained a second incor-

552 - HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY.

poration under the title of the "Champion Iron Fence Company," the capital stock being the same as that of the old company. The officers were Edward Crawford, President: William H. Young, Vice President; Henry Price, Secretary; James Young, Treasurer. In 1879, Edward A. Parrott, of Dayton, Ohio, succeeded Mr. Crawford as President, and he in turn was succeeded by William H. Young, in 1880, Frank C. Dougherty being chosen as Vice President to succeed Mr. Young. The old frame building which the works occupied in 1878, is 24x130 feet. In 1879, the company erected a two story brick machine shop. 40x 132 feet,and, in 1881, bought the Brunson property adjoining,wheron they built a brick foundry, 45x100 feet. Their business has grown rapidly from year to year, until now their annual sales reach nearly $200,000. Seventy employee find work in this factory. while their agents are scattered all over the country wherever the demands of business justifies their presence. The officers are William H. Young, President: Frank C. Dougherty, Vice President; Henry Price, Secretary: James Youn. Treasurer.

Scioto ,Straw, Board Company, - During the summer of 1882. James Young, Nathan Ahlefeld, G. H. Harris, Asher Letson, James M. White and William H. Young incorporated this company. with a capital stock of $60.000, which has since been increased to $80,000. The officers first elected and who are yet serving are James Young, President.: G. H. Harris, Secretary; Nathan Ahlefeld, Treasurer. The company purchased the property- previously occupied by Letson & Harris as a pork packing house, and, tearing down the old buildings, erected on their site, in the fall of 1882, the present paper mill. The mill consists of two main brick buildings with iron roofs. The machine-room is a one-story structure. 114 feet in length ; the engine room is two stories high and forty-two feet square; the boiler room is fifth two-feet square and two stories high, the stock room, 33x35 feet, one story high: the beater room, 40x98 feet, also one story; the rotary room, 40s63 feet, three stories in height, and the straw room is a one story structure, 24x40 feet. There are two powerful engines and four large boilers, while a large brick smokestack towers above the mill to a height of 115 feet, the whole forming a first-class manufacturing establishment. The mill is furnished with the latest improved straw-board machinery, which, together with the buildings.' etc cost $80,000. A switch of the Chicago &, Atlantic Railroad affords good shipping facilities, and the enterprise, so far has proven a success, the capacity of the mill being twelve tons of strawboard per day. The company employs fifty hands, whose labor and earnings have added much to the wealth and prosperity of the city.

Kenton Gas Company.- The gas works located on the southwest corner of Main and Walnut streets, were built in 1871 by Peter Marr, who subsequently failed. The works were then sold at Sheriff's sale and bought by the Bank of Exchange. In 1874, Asher Letson, George H. Harris, James M. White and Henry Dickson got control of the works. with James M. White President and Treasurer; Asher Letson, Vice President; George H. Harris, Secretary. On the 15th of May. 1880, the company was incorporated by James M. White, Diana White, Asher Letson, George H. Harris and Francis S. Letson, the capital stock being $50,000. The same oflicers, previously mentioned, were chosen, and have served up to the present. The capacity of the gas tank is 30,000 cubic feet; there are 121 lamp posts, 114 of which belong to the city and seven to private individuals, companies or corporations, while about seven miles of gas mains stretch throughout Kenton, running in every direction.

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Kenton Water Works Company.-On the 22d of June, 1881, Lewis Merriman, James M. White, William H. Young, Thomas Espy and W. F. Damon were incorporated as the above company, with a capital stock of $60,000. Subsequently, Asher Letson was chosen President; James Young Vice President and Treasurer; Thomas Espy, Secretary. The works were constructed on the " Holly System " by Truman Cowell and have a pumping capacity of 1,500,000 gallons every twenty-four hours. The buildings are located south of the Scioto River. between Detroit street and the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western Railroad, and consist of a substantial brick structure, containing a handsome set of machinery such as are usually found connected with the Holly works. Four miles of water mains and forty fire plugs are scattered over the city, and the works up to the present have cost the full amount of the capital stock. In November, 1882, Thomas Espy was elected President; Joseph Timmons, Secretary: Lewis Merriman, Treasurer.

DICKSON'S GRAND OPERA HOUSE.

About 1858-59, Jeremiah Crowley, Sr., and Henry Dickson erected a three-story brick building on the northeast corner of Main and Franklin streets, and fitted up a hall in the third story, which was the first of the sort built in Kenton. This was used for public entertainments, until 1863, when Crowley and Dickson, Steiner and Meyers erected the present structure on the southwest corner of the same streets, and the third story became the opera house. Mr. Dickson subsequently became sole owner and, in 1879, remodeled the interior of the theatre at an expense of about $12,000. In April, 1882, he again remodeled the opera house, adding fifty feet to the building, making it 70x130 feet. The upper floor was dropped to the first story, and it is now one of the finest opera houses in this portion of Ohio, being equal to many of the metropolitan theatres. It will seat 1,200, and the exits are so ample that the house can be emptied within three minutes. The fire department have accepted the house as perfectly safe in every respect. The parquette and parquette circles are seated with Andrews' celebrated folding opera chairs; the balcony is seated with cushioned chairs; everything handsomely upholstered, and there are four elegantly furnished private boxes. The stage is 42x70 feet; proscenium, 34x70; height of flats, eighteen feet and of rigging loft, thirty-four feet. The stage is furnished complete, and has everything requisite for any combination on the road. There are very fine red and green carpets, with large square Brussels rug for parlor scene, and a fine set of parlor furniture. There are thirteen nicely furnished dressing rooms, with every convenience, all heated by steam. The scenery is from the pencil of W. P. Davis, of the Grand Opera House, Chicago, Ill., and consists of the following pieces: Wood scene, landscape, garden, streethouse, fancy chamber, plain chamber, kitchen, prison, palace, street, horizon, rocky paths, set houses, two sets of waters, one set of rocks across the stage, rustic bride, tormentor wings, doors and draperies, garden wall, balustrade and set tree. The decorations and frescoe work were done by Cincinnati's famous Italian artist, F. Pedretti, and the whole was under the immediate supervision of the well-known architect, Wallace Hume. The outlay on this second remodeling was about $44,000, and the gratitude of the citizens of Kenton is unquestionably due to Mr. Dickson for his enterprise and public spirit in furnishing the city with such a handsome opera house, which is excelled by none in any town of like population in the State.

554 - HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY.

BANKS.

The first bank started in Hardin County was opened by Guild Copeland, about 1850, in a rear room on the second story of the frame building erected by him on the southeast corner of Detroit and Franklin streets, and now occupied by Archie Davis as a grocery store. In a short time, he removed to a room on Franklin street, east of his former place of business, and opened up under the name of "The Hardin County Bank." He was succeeded by his brother, Howard Copeland, who managed the bank until 1855-56, when he closed his business and removed from the town.

The next bank to begin operations in Kenton was organized by William Cary, David Thomson and Joseph Kinnear, late in 1853 or early in the following year. Mr. Kinnear soon retired from the firm, and Cary & Thomson continued to carry on the bank, until 1866, when Mr. Thomson became interested in another banking institution. Mr. Cary still carried on the business, but began to pay such high interest for the purpose of obtaining deposits, that he gradually lost money, became involved and failed in 1875.

Bank of Exchange and Deposit.-In 1866, Joseph Kinnear, B. F. Kinnear, John F. Henkle and David Thomson organized this bank, and began business on the west side of the square, subsequently erecting the building now occupied by the Kenton Savings Bank, which was known as the "Bank Block." B. F. Kinnear sold his interest after the bank had been running about a year, and a few years afterward Joseph Kinnear followed his example, his place in the firm being taken by Portius and H. N. Wheeler. On the death of Mr. Henkle, Mr. Thomson and the Wheelers became sole owners and the bank ran along until 1874, when it failed the following year, from the same cause that produced the failure of William Cary, viz., paying higher interest than money was worth or their business would justify.

Williams' Bank.- In 1867, Isaac G. and Granville S. Williams, under the title of I. G. Williams & Son, opened a bank on the southeast corner of Detroit and Franklin streets, which they operated until the death of the father, in September, 1868. The following month, Granville S. formed a partnership with Thomas Espy and Joseph Paulucci, but the bank continued under the old name. They soon removed to a room on the west side of the square, and, after about anther year had passed away, occupied the brick building erected by them on the southeast corner of Main and Franklin streets. In three or four years, Williams & Espy, became sole owners of the bank; but, in 1874, Henry M. Shingle obtained a partnership, and thus the firm remained until May, 1875, when they sold out to the Hardin Savings Bank.

Citizens' Bank.-In May, 1874, Lewis Merriman, J. S. Robinson, Thomas Espy, James M. White, Asher Letson and Edmund Cary purchased the Bank of Exchange and Deposit, and organized the Citizens' Bank, with Lewis Merriman, President; J. S. Robinson, Vice President; Augustus Traeger, Cashier. In 1875, Mr. Merriman became sole owner, and, in January, 1876, disposed of the concern to the Kenton Savings Bank, of which he was one of the incorporators and principal stockholders since its organization.

Farmers' and Mechanics' Bank.- This bank was established, February 12, 1875, by J. C. Stevens, President; R. L. Miller, Cashier. It began business on the northeast corner of Main and Columbus streets, but, in April, 1882, removed to its present location on the south side of West Franklin street. In February, 1883, C. J. Stevens, who had been Assistant

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Cashier for more than a year prior to that date, succeeded Mr. Miller as Cashier. This institution does a general banking and exchange business, and is favorably regarded by the people of Hardin County as a safe, reliable, and well conducted private banking house.

The Hardin Savings Bank was incorporated March 5, 1875, with a capital stock of $50,000, and purchased the Williams' Bank building, etc., wherein they began business. The incorporators were George Pfeiffer, Thomas Espy, James Young, William H. Young, John Pfeiffer, Conrad Kahler, Joseph Paulucci, J. P. Humphreys and John F. Gramlich. The first officers were Joseph Paulucci, President; John Pfeiffer, Vice President; Thomas Espy, Treasurer and Cashier. These officers served two years and were succeeded by William H. Young, President; H. W. Gramlich, Vice President: Henry M. Shingle. Treasurer and Cashier, who, after filling the positions one year, were succeeded by Joseph Paulucci, President; James Young, Vice President; H. W. Gramlich, Treasurer and Cashier; and these officers served until the bank was sold to the First National Bank in January 1881.

The Kenton Savings Bank. - On the 23d of September, 1875, the following gentlemen incorporated this bank, viz.: Lewis Merriman, W. M. Chesney, John Saylor, J. S. Robinson, William Moore, Asher Letson, Edmund Carey, Clemens Lopker and Samuel Haynes. The bank was organized and began business on the west side of the square with the following officers: Lewis Merriman, President; J. S. Robinson, Vice President; Solomon Kraner, Cashier; W. S. Robinson, Assistant Cashier. Mr. Merriman soon resigned the Presidency, and W. M. Chesney was elected, serving until January, 1882, when Mr. Merriman again became President of the bank. In January, 1876, the bank was removed to its present location on the northeast corner of Detroit and Columbus streets, known as the "Bank Block." W. A. Norton succeeded W. S, Robinson as Assistant Cashier in July, 1878, and on the 16th of March, 1882, Mr. Kraner was succeeded as Cashier by James Watt. The capital stock of this bank is $50,000, all paid up, and its business has grown from year to year, until, to-day, it is looked upon as one of the best and safest banking houses in Northwestern Ohio. Its officers are at all times courteous and gentlemanly, whose characters, both as progressive business men of integrity and honorable citizens, command the highest respect.

The First National Bank of Kenton was organized January 11, 1881, with a paid-up capital stock of $50,000, and the company purchased the bank building, etc., of "The Hardin Savings Bank," wherein they began and have since continued the banking business. The first Board of Directors were S. L. Hoge, Thomas Espy, Nathan Ahlefeld, James and William H. Young, A. B. Johnson, H. W. Gramlich, Joseph Paulucci and John S. Rice. The first officers of the bank were as follows: Joseph Paulucci, President; S. L. Hoge, Vice President; H. W. Gramlich, Cashier; but in the short space of two months a change was found necessary and James Young was chosen President, vice Paulucci resigned. In October, 1881, Mr. Young was succeeded by S. L. Hoge, who has since filled the position, John S. Rice succeeding Mr. Hoge as Vice President, while Mr. Gramlich has been Cashier from the organization of the bank up to the present. James Howe is Assistant Cashier and H. M. Moore, Teller. The present Board of Directors are S. L. Hoge, Thomas Espy, William Moore, H. W. Gramlich, A. B. Johnson, John S. Rice and Adam Ritzler. There can be no doubt as to the solidity of this bank, for it is founded on the wise national banking

558 - HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY.

law of the United States, backed by men of capital and conducted by officials of prudence and experience. Its business has grown rapidly and the handsome three-storied National Bank Block on the southeast corner of Main and Franklin streets, which they have greatly improved since 1881, is in keeping with the financial prosperty of the institution.

TELEGRAPH, TELEPHONE AND EXPRESS OFFICES.

Late in 1848, the Western Union Telegraph Company opened an office in Kenton, and for nearly twenty years was the only line running through the town; but, some time prior to 1870, the Atlantic & Pacific Telegraph Company erected a new line, and, soon after, the Western Union quit this field and abandoned its office at Kenton. In August, 1875, the Western Union again opened an office at this point, and both companies remained doing business until about two years ago, when they were consolidated, the Western Union absorbing the Atlantic & Pacific. Three of the earliest operators in Kenton were J. M. Brunson, Warren Brunson and H. C. Brunson, who succeeded each other in the order named, and managed the business from shortly after the office was established until 1864. John Swartz has had charge of the Western Union business at Kenton since August 1, 1875.

On the 1st of June, 1882. the telephone office was opened at Kenton. the public station being located on West Franklin street, close to Detroit. George H. Harris was the first manager, and was succeeded by John Swartz, in March, 1883. Kenton has now telephonic communication with every town on the line of the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western Railroad from Findlay south, also with the towns between Springfield and Cincinnati, as well as Ada, Dunkirk and Lima. Between sixty and seventy subscribers support the enterprise in Kenton alone, and it is only justice to say that the telephone has proven a blessing to every city or town where it has so far been established

The United States Express Company began business at Kenton in 1850, Archie M. Davis being its first agent. The following agents in the order named served the company since that time, viz.: J. T. Jennings, B. R. Brunson & Sons, B. F. Brunson, J. H. Harrod and George H. Harris, as Harrod & Harris, B. F. Brunson, J. H Harrod, and, in 1874, B. F. Brunson again took charge of the office and has since filled the position to the satisfaction of all. In the fall of 1866, the Merchants' Union Express Company established an opposition line, but their office existed only about six months, since which time the United States Express Company have done all the express business of Kenton.

THE SCIOTO IMPROVEMENT.

As late as 1869, there were no iron bridges in the county. Upon investigation it was found that the cost of an iron bridge was but very little more than of a good wooden one. The two bridges, south of town, spanning the Scioto, were in a dilapidated condition, and new bridges were needed badly. The river made quite a detour, so that a 150 foot bridge was required at either crossing, and the land lying between, as well as the streets, were flooded at every freshet. B. R. Brunson conceived the idea of cutting a straight channel for the river so that a 100-foot span would answer instead of a 150-foot, and at the same time save the flooding of that part of the town. When the above proposition was made, it met with strong opposition was called a piece of wild extravagance, and, while the work was in prog-

HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY. - 559

ress, was dubbed as "Brunson's Dutch Gap Canal." The facts in the case are, that after the town paid its share for making the two streets, about $1,000, and that compared with the amount saved in the length of span of the two bridges (that would have to be built), the cost to the county was comparatively light, and was paid for out of the ordinary bridge fund without crippling bridge improvements in other parts of the county. Notwithstanding the hue and cry raised that "the credit of the county would be ruined. county orders would go on the market at a discount, marked (not paid for want of funds)," the credit of the county was not impaired in the least, and no one will now question as to the value of the improvement, both to the town and county. The iron bridges have been in use for ten years; they are built on solid limestone abutments, and from present appearances will stand long after both the builders and the opposers are forgotten. Without the above-named improvement, there would be no South Kenton to-day.

HOTELS.

In the sketch on the pioneers of Kenton, we have given the early history of the Williams and Furney hotels. The former was carried on until about 1854, when it was remodeled by Judge Goodin and converted into business rooms, which were burned down, August 30, 1856. Luther Furney carried on business in the "Mansion House" until 1859, when he abandoned the calling, and the building was removed to South Detroit street, where most of it still remains. There were several other taverns opened at an early day in different portions of the town. The "American House," was opened, in 1845, by a Mr. Jackson, in a frame building previously erected by a Mr. Gordon, on Columbus street, opposite the square. He soon quit the business, and Archibald Campbell succeeded him, who, after two years, was followed by William Cadwallader. He was the last to keep there, as the hotel soon closed its doors. A hotel was started in 1839, on East Franklin street, by Henry Garrett, one of the pioneers of Kenton. but he soon went out of the business. Many years afterward, or just prior to the war, James Mumford opened a hotel in the same place, which ran for a short time. Another of the early hotels was the "Imerson House," run by Mr. Imerson, on the northwest corner of Detroit and Columbus street. The same gentleman subsequently kept in the Reese House building.

Reese House.- In 1847-48, Benjamin Eglin erected a two-story and a half brick hotel on the southeast corner of Franklin and Market streets, which he called the "Kenton Hotel." He carried on business here until the spring of 1860, when Col. James Cantwell bought the property and engaged in the business. Upon the breaking-out of the rebellion, Col. Cantwell entered the service, and, at the second battle of Bull Run, was killed at the head of his regiment. During the war, this house was known as the "Union Hotel," Col. Cantwell having changed the name. In the spring of 1865. Henry Reese bought it and called it the "Reese House," which title it has since borne. The building was raised to three stories in 1866, and, the following year, Mr. Reese built the west ell. In 1880, the east ell was erected and the house now contains sixty rooms. It is the oldest hotel in Kenton, and is regarded as a first-class establishment.

Dugan House.- This commodious three-storied brick hotel was erected, in 1872, by Patrick Duo-an, on West Franklin street, opposite the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western passenger depot. The house contains forty rooms, all of which are large, comfortably furnished and well ventilated, and it is undoubtedly one of the leading hotels of the city.

560 - HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY.

The Franklin House was built by Dr. U. P. Leighton for a private residence, but, about 1877, it was purchased by William Born, who opened a hotel called the "Franklin House," which he ran until its destruction in the fire of May 27, 1881. It was a frame building and stood on the site of the Southard House.

The Ritzler Hotel was opened by Adam Ritzler in May 1881, in the two-storied frame building on West Franklin street, still occupied by him. It has twenty-five rooms, and does a fair share of the hotel trade.

Southard House.-During the summer of 1882, R. W. Southard erected a three-storied brick hotel on West Franklin street, close to the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western passenger depot. It was opened, November 27, 1882, contains thirty-two rooms, and is One of the first-class hotels of Kenton, being creditably furnished and well managed.

These comprise about all the hotels of the past and present worthy of mention. It is true that ethers have existed and still exist that might be called hotels, out as they do little or no transient business, they may. snore properly speaking, be called boarding houses. In the pioneer days the hardy backwoodsman knew little and cared less for luxuries, but found in corn bread, potatoes and wild meat a substantial satisfaction for all the cravings of his appetite. His rough out-door existence created demands for solid food, and this the pioneer tavern furnished in abundance. Manyhotels have appeared in Kenton, some to exist for a brief period, Others to claim a longer lease of life, but most, if not all, after various vicissitudes, yielded to the demands of modern improvement and passed away forever.

DESCRIPTIVE REVIEW OF KENTON IN 1883.

In reviewing the history of Kenton, the reader will be forcibly struck by its solid, steady growth, not, only in population, but in everything that goes to make up a live, progressive town. Beginning with 1840, when its first official census was taken, we find that it then contained 300 inhabitants; 1845, 500; 1817, 733; 1850, 1,065, 1860, 1,648, 1870, 2,610; 1880, 3,940; and, according to the census taken by the officials of the town in 1883, it has now a population of more than 5,000 within its corporate limits. Until 1840, Kenton did not possess a single brick residence or business block, but in that year William Cadwallader erected a small one-story brick house on the northwest corner of Ohio and Main streets. It was subsequently owned by John Espy, who finished the interior, and it was looked upon in those days as an elegant residence. The building is yet standing in a fair state of preservation, and is occupied as a wagon shop. The second brick residence was built by a Mr. Bumbinger, on Franklin street, facing the public square. It is a two-storied structure, joins Dickson's Opera House on the west and is now occupied by two saloons. Thus we find that, until about 1850, little had been done toward the improvement of the town, and that it was still a small village with very few pretensions.

We have previously given a history of the pioneers of Kenton in 1857, churches, post offices and postmaster;, schools, newspapers, secret societies, medical profession, city officials, fire protection and city buildings, cemeteries, past and present manufacturing interests, gas works, water works, opera house, banks, telegraph, telephone and express offices, Scioto improvement and hotels, and we now give the names of the leading business firms, outside of those already spoken of, who at present constitute the commercial strength of Kenton. The dry goods houses are H. C. Koller, Metellus Thomson, W. A. Filler, Benedict Fink and S. L. Newcomb; wholesale no-

HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY - 561

tions, Lewis Merriman; grocers, Charles Wendt, B. F. Brunson, Her Dickson, A. M. Davis, J. A. Steiner, George Merriman, Milligan & George, William Ellis, J. A. Matler, R. D. Alter, Fred Fogle, David Riffe, West Bros. & Co., William Campbell, Luther Furney, Abraham Burley, Pat Geissel, B. F. Smith, J. O. Walker & Co., McCabe & Harvey; druggists, J. A. Rogers, W. D. Dean, W. W. Snodgrass, B. F. Shultz, Binckley Bros., J. N. McCoy, L. B. Tyson; hardware, Cantwell & Co., Robinson & Spelman, George R. Moore, Jr.; clothing, hats, caps, etc., F. S. & A. Letson, C. Morgengroth & Bro., H. K. Ford, William Dougherty, W. H. Moses, Strong & Jordan, J. L. Robey; boots and shoes, D. P. Zearing, John Kaiser, J. C. Miller & Son, H. W. Atwood, Charles Link, William Gilmore, Peter Lautenschlager ; stoves and tinware, Enoch Merriman, John Fink, C. C. Biddle, H. H. Wynn; books and stationery, L. W. Barr, D. S. Fisher, L. J. Demorest; harness and saddles, D. W. Sullivan, Joseph Ichler, J. & A. Dean, J. A. Gerlach; Jewelers, Benjamin Garretson, D. L. Dowe, Harvey Chapman. W. D. Troxel; William Gilmore, J. H. Rhodes; merchant tailors. J. B. Fletcher, A. C. Fullerton, G. Danz; millinery, etc, Metellus Thomson. A. Tarr, C. M. Lewis, E. M. Collins; bakeries and confectionery, Philip J. Hart, Lewis Price. Kirchner Bros.; meat markets, Portner & Myers, J. Alt &, Co.. Farnum V Lintz, Ramsey & Cox, J. Lintz; Furniture W. F. Damon, Theodore Schindewolf, Ed. Sorgen; chinaware, Kuert & Reely: gunstore, etc., M. S. Weaver; elevators, Seymour & Co., E. Lawson; music dealers, Benedict Fink, J. W. Ulrich; seam gas fitting store, E. C. Humphreys; livery stables, T. F. Van Horn, Alonzo Lynch, McGuigin & Stevenson, D. S. .Johnson. Joseph Daniels; photographers, S. K. Davis, Winters Bros., J. R. Shawl; dentists, G. J. Carter, George Salzman, I. M. William;; carpenters and builders, John S. Scott, John Kemper, John P. Cook, Lambert Bros, Bain & Hicks; contractors for brick work, John Burkhart, Joseph Burkhart and .Joseph Erwin. There are twentysix saloons. two cigar factories, six barber shops, six real estate dealers, several small blacksmith and other sorts of shops, where all classes of repairing is the principal business done; also the usual number of insurance and other kinds of agents, whose offices are a necessary appendage to every good town or city in the land.

Kenton, as it is to-day, with its wide, well-built streets, lined with fine business blocks and elegant. private residences, shaded by beautiful forest trees, where fifty years ago a few log cabins marked the spot whereon the county seat had been located is truly a change not. dreamed of by its founders at the time when they pitched their tents in the primitive forest then covering its site. It possesses all the natural advantages which a kind Providence has bestowed upon this great commonwealth. Surrounding it, lies a rich and fertile country, settled by as good a class of citizens as the State can boast of. Possessing excellent water and fine drainage facilities, an unsurpassed system of pikes, radiating in every direction from her corporate limits, crossed by two first-class railroads, affording splendid advantages to the shipper or traveling public, and its churches and schools, the pride of her citizens, together with her beautiful public square, render all Kenton a desirable place for residence. The volume of business has kept steady pace with the increase of population, but it has been a healthy growth, speaking well for the prudence and foresight of her capitalists, merchants, manufacturers and others engaged in business pursuits.

In closing this review of the history of Kenton, we cannot do better than to insert the following extract from a centennial address delivered by

562 - HISTORY OF HARDIN COUNTY.

A. B. Johnson before the Pioneer Association of Hardin County, July 4, 1876. He says: "The residence of Gen. J. S. Robinson, in Kenton, is situated on the dividing ridge. I have read somewhere a beautiful description of the devious travels of the rain drops which fall upon the summit of the Alps that divide the basin of the Mediterranean from the watershed of the great Northern Ocean. So might we speak of the rain drops that fall upon this residence at Kenton. Those which fall upon the one side flow down into the Tymochtee, thence into the Sandusky River, past meadow land and forest glade, till they become part of the blue waters of Lake Erie, and then dash in majestic grandeur over the mighty falls of Niagara, through the beautiful lake of Ontario, down the rapid St. Lawrence, past the Thousand Islands, till at last those same rain drops form part of the dense and impenetrable fogs, off the coast of Newfoundland, that have brought death and disaster to many a stately ship. The rain drops that fall upon the other side flow down into the Scioto River, and passing along its beautiful valley through the richest portion of the State, at last strike the Ohio River: thence down that stream, past furnace and factory, city and town, till they become a part of the mighty Mississippi, 'Father of Waters.' Following its turbid current onward to the gulf, they at last form a part of the glowing sunlit waves that forever murmur along the shores of the Caribbean Sea."