807 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY
CHAPTER I.
PUBLIC AND BUSINESS BUILDINGS.-RESIDENCES.-ARCHITECTS.
IT would be impracticable, in the very limited space now available in this volume, to give anything like an extended - much less a full statement of the progress of architectural development in Toledo. The most that is now practicable, is to refer briefly to a few of the earlier and more recent structures.
Elsewhere is given a view of the first Warehouse in Toledo (built in 1817), in connection with "No. Five Wabash Elevator." In like contrast are given the pioneer School-house, in which was held the first session of a Court in Lucas County, and the present Central and Manual Training School building.
In different parts of this volume, incidentally occurs more or less of record of early business and residence buildings. From a somewhat detailed statement by Richard Mott of the advance reached when he came to Toledo in 1836, (prepared in 1872, for Knapp's History of the Maumee Valley), we make the following extracts:
My personal knowledge of the Maumee country dates from the 1st of March, 1836. I arrived there after a three days' ride by stage from Columbus. The Black Swamp was frozen-hard and we had an easy ride through that then dreaded region. Willard V. Way, then, as now, a resident of Perrysburg, was the only other passenger in the stage, our three days' association making us pretty well acquainted, by the time he got out at Spafford's, where we changed horses, and I came on alone to Toledo, reaching the "Toledo House " late in the afternoon.
The road from Maumee wound along through the woods, near the bank of the River, and not far from the present River Road. The forest extended to the South bank of Swan Creek-no improvement being on that side, nearer than George Knaggs' farm, after leaving Port Miami. At Swan Creek, a road had been cut, commencing where Henry Brand's Brewery now is (l47 St. Clair), and descending along the side of the bank to about opposite Superior Street, where was a bridge-carried off by a freshet a few weeks later. For some years afterwards, the Creek w as crossed by a scow ferry boat, large enough to carry a single team. This ferry was kept by Harrison Crane, father of Charles A. Crane, of East Toledo.
Adjoining the Toledo House, was the store of W. J. Daniels & Co., in which, at the time, Roswell Cheney, Jr., and Daniel McBain were clerks. Cheney remained in Toledo, and died in 1845.
Over the store, reached by outside stairs, was a large room occupied by Emery D. Potter (since Judge) as a Lawyer's office. This office was much resorted to by the Judge's friends, who wished to write or transact business, all of whom were heartily welcomed by him-pens, ink and paper, and a seat at his long table, thrown in. It was, in fact, the most attractive loafing place in town. Occasionally, in the evenings, a Debating Society met there. Besides there upwards of thirty feet high, had been dug away Judge Potter, Peter Palmer (now living in Lockport), to fill in for the dock foundation for this Warehouse, Daniel McBain, Caleb F. Abbott, and Josiah G. Murfee, were prominent in this organization. Joshua R. Giddings, and Benjamin F. Wade, came in the Spring, and took part in some real estate purchases. Wade did not stay long, but Giddings remained a longtime, and took an active part con amore in the Debating Society. Later in the Spring, Edward Wade also came, and opened a Law office in company with Richard Cooke. The early settlers will recollect Cooke as a Lawyer of much promise, cut short by his untimely death, a few years later.
Nearly opposite W. J. Daniels & Co., on partt of the lot where Ketcham, Bond & Co. now are (36-38 Summit Street), was another frame store standing alone, over the door of which was the sign of A. Palmer & Co. This old building remained till 18511, when it was pulled down to make room for the block belonging to V. H. Ketcham.
Daniels & Goettel (Munson H. Daniels and Henry Goettel) were doing a large business in a wooden building, on the corner of Perry and Swan Streets. During the year, they put up two three-story brick stores, on the corner of Monroe and Summit Streets, and, in the Fall of 1836, moved into the corner one. These stores were burned October 16, 1860, and are replaced by the present Lenk's Block, erected in the Spring of 1861. A row of buildings stood on the Northwest side of St. Clair Street, built by Coleman I. Keeler, Jr., where is now the American House (St. Clair, opposite Perry), but extending further South, and across the alley that runs between the new Police Station and Kelsey & King's Pork-house. The usually traveled road into the Port Lawrence end of the town was through this Alley. and under the wooden arch-way of Keeler's row. This Road continued nearly to the present site of the African Church, then more toward the North, passed over the rear of Austin Scott's property, corner of Monroe and Michigan Streets ; thence crossing Monroe Street, it passed over the ground where .J. H. Whitaker's house is-then along in front of Judge Potter's residence, and in the same direction over the rear of Calvin Barker's and Horace Holcomb's grounds, and just clearing the corner of Dr. White's house, on Madison Street, continued in a direct line to the present road in front of Judge Fitch's mansion.
On the River in rear of the store of A. Palmer & Co., was a log warehouse, an old looking building, said to have been standing when Coleman I. Keeler landed there in 1817. Keeler settled in that year on the farm now occupied by his widow, on the Road above mentioned. This log building was taken down in 1836, by Judge John Baldwin, who put on its site the Warehouse occupied, after his death, in 1837, by Carpenter & Myers, and then by V. H. Ketcham, who now owns the ground-the building having been taken down to make room for Ketcham's block.
The Oliver Warehouse, built by Joseph Prentice, was then standing on the West side of Monroe Street, where Roff & Co. now are, and occupied by A. Palmer & Co. Further down, under the bank of the River, on the site of M. I. Wilcox's brick store (64 Water Street), was another Warehouse, belonging to William P. and W. J. Daniels. The bank, which was
808 - HISTORY OP TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
which was only reachable from the land side, by a road commencing at Jefferson Street, and cut sideways down the bank.
A brick store of two stories, belonging to John Baldwin, fronted Summit Street, adjoining W. J. Daniels. This stood till within a few years since.
The ground in front of the Toledo House was about at the present grade of Summit Street, at that corner. It was some four or five feet at the lower intersection of Monroe Street. Here was a run-way for the water from the low ground, along Mud Creek. This runway was crossed on Summit Street by a little log bridge-the logs well covered with earth. Beyond this, at the East, was a bluff, some twenty feet above the present grade, and a road-way had been cut, partly sidewalks, to reach the top of the bluff. Here was a frame building, then occupied, but afterwards fitted up, and known as the National Hotel, and where (in 1845) Lyman T. Thayer began his successful career at hotel-keeping. The present. Deuel block (" Bee Hive," 77-79 Summit), is on the same spot. It was then a commanding position, having a full view of the River-there being nothing to obstruct in either direction up or down. From this the Road wound along near the edge of the bank, among stumps and bushes, and without regard to map lines of Streets, to the Postoffice, a two-story brick building, about 150 feet East of Adams Street. This had been put up by Edward Bissell, for the purpose it was then used, to be about midway between the settled portions of the previously rival Villages of Port Lawrence and Vistula, when they concluded to bury the hatchet of strife, and unite under the name of Toledo. This Postoffice building was an isolated and somewhat desolate looking affair, standing entirely alone. The nearest dwelling was a log house, directly in the present line of Summit Street, at the corner of Oak, surrounded by a worm rail fence, enclosing about half an acre for a garden spot. This log house was occupied by William Andrews and family, consisting of his wife, several sons and daughters. Among the former was Samuel Andrews, of the Blade -then a boy perhaps a dozen years old. The road passed between the enclosure and the River, over the lot where Toledo Mill stands, towards the corner of Cherry and Summit Streets. From this to Elm Street, the line of Summit Street was clearly defined. The stumps had been mostly grubbed out, and several buildings were erected on both sides.
A frame building, occupied as two dwellings, stood on the Northwest corner of Cherry Street. What is now Dr. Bergen's dwelling, adjoining (375 St. Clair), was nearly finished. The frame on the corner was afterwards moved on the lot where B. Meilink & Co.'s Furniture store stands (204 Summit), and was long occupied by the Toledo Blade, till it was removed to 1,50 Summit Street. Cherry Street was then the Southwesterly border of the Vistula division. The entire space to the Tavern building, above Jefferson Street, was open and wild, except the Postoffice building and Mr. Andrews' log house.
On the South side of Summit Street, on the corner of Vine, was a frame building, occupied by William Tillman as a paint shop below, and dwelling above. This was the next year fitted up by Edward Bissell, for a dwelling, and where he resided for several years. It still stands in the same place. Nearly opposite, Richard Green wood had a small frame dwelling-still standing. The three old stores on the Northwest side of Summit Street, fronting the head of Vine Street, were in course of erection. A brick outside was put on them in 1852, in which they still stand. When Toledo was made a City, in 1837, one of the offices in the second story of this block, was used for the City Council-room. Scott & Richardson (Samuel B. Scott and Worden N. Richardson, both deceased) had a store a little below, towards Walnut Street.
A row of stores, belonging to Edward Bissell, stood on the Southwest corner of Locust Street, 361 Summit. In the second story of this row, Hezekiah D. Mason had his office. Judge Mason was regarded as an old resident, having come in 1834. This row was burned in the Fall of 1838, the most sickly season ever known in Toledo. The City had two fire engines, built at Waterford, New York; and as the weather had been very dry, one of the engines (No. 1) had to be run down the bank of the River for a supply of water, forcing it up to the other (No. 2), that was thus enabled to throw one little stream. The few men who worked the machine at the River, were soon tired out, and the stream stopped. They sent for fresh hands to help work at the brakes, but it was next to impossible to find any men who were well enough; the almost invariable excuse of every bystander applied to, being, that he was just out from a fit of the ague, and was not able to work. The well men being fagged out, the stores were destroyed. All that could be done was to save the near buildings.
About half way between Locust and Lagrange Streets, was the Mansion House, :385 Summit.
On the Southeast corner of Summit and Lagrange Streets, was a two-story frame store, belonging to and occupied by Dr. Jacob Clark, the sign over the door being Clark & Bennett. This corner was then regarded as about the centre of business in Toledo, and perhaps the best stand in the place, till 1843, when, by the opening of the Canal, business was mainly drawn towards the Port Lawrence end of the Town. This old store was afterwards occupied by Ketcham & Snell, and it was here that Joseph K. Se cor commenced business life as a store-boy. It was subsequently taken by Elijah S. Hanks, who remained till it was burned, in 1844 or 1845.
Lagrange Street was graded from Summit Street (pretty steeply), so that teams could pass to the dock. Here, on the West side of the Street, was the Warehouse of Peckham & Co., still standing, now owned by P. H. Birckhead (363-369 Water Street). Peckham & Co. did the largest forwarding business of the place, most of the steamboats coming in the River stopping at their wharf. The members of the firm were Bunnell H. Peckham and John Berdan.
In the Spring of 1836, two other Warehouses were put up near the foot of Lagrange Street, on the East side. The lower one was occupied by Bissell & Gardner (Frederick Bissell and Joseph B. Gardner). Mr. Bissell continued in business in Toledo till his death, in June, 1870. Gardner was afterwards Postmaster, succeeding Judge Potter, in 1839. He removed to Buffalo, and died many years ago.
The other Warehouse was kept first by Poag & Morse, then Poag & Titus, and afterwards by Robert W. Titus. John Poag went to New York about 1840, and after a few years became one of the firm of Kent, Poag & Co.,-grew wealthy, invested largely in Toledo real estate, which has turned out very advantageously. He returned to Toledo, and died in 1868.
The same warehouse (the second story) was taken by Titus & Co., from New York, in the Spring of 1838 (Avery and Walter Titus), for a dry goods and groceries jobbing establishment. They did a good business ; but, trying to carry a load of debt, growing out of their New York business in 1837, proved too great a burden, and, after the death of Avery Titus, in 1841, the firm was obliged to suspend. Walter is still living in New York. These Warehouses still remain, and are parts of the Novelty Works establishment. Southeast corner Lagrange and Water.
The first Mill for grinding grain in Toledo was built during the year 1838, for Edward
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Bissell, and under the superintendence of Ahira Hibbard. It was located at the foot of Elm Street. By January, 1839, it was so far advanced, that the work of putting in the machinery was commenced. The parts of the engine for the propelling of the mill were brought here from Sandusky or Detroit, and put in place by a machinist by the name of Hall, from Detroit. The mill-wright's name was Clark, he coming from Adrian, or thereabouts. Mr. Josiah Chambers had come here for settlement during the year 1838, and having had experience in milling was engaged to assist in getting the machinery in place, and when this was accomplished he became the Miller. All things being ready, operations were commenced in March, 1839. The first grist consisted of 32 bushels of Wheat purchased for the purpose, which was ground in the most satisfactory manner in 55 minutes, a result highly gratifying to all concerned. Mr. Chambers had left a job of cutting Steamboat cord-wood, to work at the mill, and in April returned to it, when a Miller from Western New York succeeded him in the mill; but the newcomer soon became discouraged at the general condition of things about Toledo, and returned to his old hone. In such emergency Mr. Chambers was sent for, when it was arranged that the mill should be run two days in the week-Wednesdays and Saturdays-and he should attend on those days. This he did for some time, the Mill, meantime, furnishing far greater facilities than there was demand for. Some days there was scarcely anything to do. When not needed for the Grist Mill, the engine was used for driving a Saw Mill, adjacent. These Mills subsequently passed into the hands of William H. Raymond, now a resident of California. They were burned many years since. The engine in these Mills was the first one used in Toledo, and so substantial and perfect a machine was it, that now, after a service of nearly half a century, the old pioneer is able to perform full service in furnishing power for the Planing Mill of John S. Eck & Co, 18 Superior Street. At the time Mr. Chambers was engaged to take charge of the Flouring Mill, e was getting out wood for market, cutting it on lands about where now stands the residence of V. H. Ketcham (corner Cherry and Bancroft Streets). A portion of his wood was sold to Richard Mott, for Steamboat use, and was delivered on the bank of the River near foot of Monroe Street, the price being $1.50 per cord for the best quality. He then paid 25 cents per yard for common calico, 15 cents per pound for salt pork, and 45 cents per pound for butter, buying a portion of his supplies of the latter article from Rev. Isaac Flagler, then Pastor of the Presbyterian Church, who received it in crocks from Western New York.
Among the prominent points in the early history of Toledo was a two-story frame building, 62 Cherry Street, on the lot now occupied by the Clark Block. It was erected in the Winter of 1835-6 for Smith, Macy & Co., of Buffalo, the builder being a Mr. Leet. The frame was a solid one, requiring much force, then to be had only by the voluntary co-operation of many neighbors, in what was known as a " raising." The structure was put up in parts, beginning with the bents, which were followed by the various other parts, piece by piece, until the rafters were adjusted to the ridgepole. The job of that particular frame was greatly increased by the serious malarial sickness of the previous Summer and Fall, which bad rendered so many physically unable to assist in such work. During the greater portion of its existence, the building was occupied as a boarding house, and in its earlier history was the temporary home of many of Toledo's prominent citizens. Its first tenant was Eleazer Newcomb, the father of Alexander H. Newcomb, who for several years kept boarders there. Among these were C. W. Hill, J. R. Bond, C. M. Dorr and J. R. Osborn. Gen. Dodd, a Canal contractor, at one time occupied a portion of the building, as did Mr. Hertzler, the father of Horace Hertzler and Mrs. C. M. Dorr. Many weddings took place there, including those of S. R. Reed of Cincinnati; and the late Ira L. Clark, the veteran Conductor on the Lake Shore Railroad. In 1874, Wm. Clark, who for 18 years had a boarding-house in the building, removed it, to make room for the brick block now on the site.
"Wigwam "-the building, 168-172 Summit Street, has a history of some interest. At opening of the Presidential campaign of 1860, the site of that building was vacant, having never been improved. Not long after the nomination of Mr. Lincoln, the Republicans of Toledo sat about the supply of much-needed headquarters for their party, and the fact that the Chicago Convention of their party was held in a building constructed specially for the occasion and called a " Wigwam," after the abode of the Indians, suggested the provision of like accommodations here. Fortunately, the location was at hand, being 60 feet of space between two brick buildings, leaving front and rear walls and roof to be provided. This was soon done, when, a plain floor and seats and gas fixtures, the " Wigwam" was ready for dedication. It was ample and convenient in accommodations, and was a lively place throughout the campaign. After the election, it continued to be used for concerts and other public gatherings, furnishing, as it did, the amplest accommodations in the City. In 1861, Mr. Uriah Gregory opened in this building a College of Trade, which embraced both instruction in the different departments of commercial knowledge, by studies and lectures, and practical education in trade through a sales department. For these purposes convenient rooms were provided. Among those who delivered lectures, were M. R.
810 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
Waite, J. M. Gregory, late United States Civil Service Commissioner; Richard Waite, of the Toledo Bar ; and Moses T Brown, the Superintendent of the Toledo Public Schools. This building was destroyed by fire in the Fall of 1887, and three buildings were erected on its site.
The construction of the Manhattan Flouring Mill (now Taylor's) was an important advance in that department of improvement. It was built for Mr. Baker, of Buffalo, New York, and was completed in October, 1845. The building was put up by John Kirk, and the machinery put in by George Lawton, Mill Wright. The work was done under the superintendence of Moses Colby, and the management of the establishment placed in the hands of A. C. Beckwith, Miller. The building was then 60x40 feet and four and a half' stories high, and was supplied with waterpower from the Canal, then recently opened. Its estimated capacity was 1,000 bushels per day. It was much the best establishment of the kind then in Northwestern Ohio. It was burned in 1882 and rebuilt the same year by T. A. Taylor, who now manages it.
The pioneer Brewery of Toledo was that of J. J. Vogelsang, who, January 12, 1839, "informed his friends and the public, that he had commenced the manufacture of Strong Beer in this City," promising "all who want, on the River or in the neighboring Towns, with an article superior to any theretofore offered in this market." He also "supplied families with Yeast." His Brewery was on Lagrange Street, one door below Peckham & Co.'s Warehouse. In March, 1840, Mertz & Leiser took this Brewery, promising Strong Beer equal to the best in Detroit or Cleveland.
The first Distillery for the manufacture of High Wines established in Toledo, was that of Kraus, Roemer & Co. It was built in 1847, being located on Swan Creek, occupying the former site of the Steam Saw-Mill built by T. & J. Darlington, in 1835. It was on the lot adjoining on the Northwest the present Lumber Yard of William Peter, corner Huron and Short Streets. The Distillery was 100x32 feet on the ground; four stories high, and fitted with apparatus for using 350 bushels of Corn per day. It had two runs of Mill-Stone, which were propelled by two low-pressure engines of 25 horse-power each.
In 1836, upon the completion of the Eric and Kalamazoo Railroad to Adrian, and in preparation for its operation with horse-power, Edward Bissell, Sen., manager of the Road, erected a Barn for the accommodation of the horses to be thus employed. Upon the introduction of steam-power on the Railroad, in 1837, this Barn was removed to the corner of Walnut Street and Ostrich Lane, and for a time was used as a Livery Stable by Leverett Bissell. For many years it was not occupied for any purpose. In 1863 it was taken to the corner of Water and Lagrange Streets, for use in connection with the Machine Shops of Vulcan Iron Works. There the old building yet stands, just entered upon the second half-century of its existence, all unconscious of the changes which have for 50 years been going on about it; and especially of the extraordinary advancement made in the operation of Railways since it gave comfortable quarters to the animals which for months moved the trains on the pioneer Railroad of the West.
Norval B. Bacon, Architect, was born in Madison County, New York, in 1837. He was educated in Eastern Schools; studied architecture in Boston, Mass.; Utica, N. Y.; and other Eastern Cities; came to Toledo in 1873, where e has since been engaged in his profession. His first experience in building, was as a practical Mechanic, afterwards working at the draughting table for some 12 years. Among the Toledo buildings receiving plans from his office, are the following: The Blade Office and Lorenz building on Jefferson Street; Ketcham and Nearing block, Northeast corner of Adams and Summit Streets; Ketcham buildings, corners of Summit and Oak and of St. Clair and Oak Streets; the building occupied by Woolson Spice Company (corner of Oak and Superior Streets), by Smith & Haldeman (corner Superior and Oak Streets), by A. Black (corner Huron and Oak Streets). Also the residences of Geo. Emerson, T. C. Rowland, J. G. Mitchell, J. B. Bell, J. F. Kumler, L. S. Baumgardner, and others in Toledo, as well as in neighboring Towns. In 1885 Mr. Bacon was appointed Superintendent of Construction of the Government building in Toledo, which position he yet holds.
D. L. Stine, is successor to D. W. Gibbs & Co., Architects, among the oldest firms in the business at Toledo. While many prominent home buildings are included in their operations, their main business has been abroad. These include the Capitol building of Wyoming at Cheyenne; Court-Houses at Norwalk, Newark, Napoleon, Marion, Hamilton and other places in Ohio; Jails at Tiffin, Marion, Delaware, Urbana, Sandusky, &c., Ohio; Churches at Auburn and Goshen, Indiana, and Colnmbus Grove and Urbana, Ohio; together with Infirmaries, Children's Homes, School buildings, Opera House, Temples, &c., at various points. Among their structures at home, are Masonic 'Temple, Soldiers' Memorial hall, German Methodist Churches, Second and Fifth Wards.
Edward O. Fallis commenced business in Toledo as an Architect in 1871. Among the prominent buildings erected under his arrangement, are the following: Warren School and Manual Training School buildings, Odd Fellows Temple and Toledo Insane Asylum. He has
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done considerable work abroad, including the English Lutheran Church, Wooster, Ohio; Wittenberg College, Springfield; and Courthouses at Monroe, Kalamazoo and Adrian, Mich.; at Bryan and Paulding, Ohio ; at Albion, Indiana; Rushville, Illinois ; and Independence, Kansas.
Carl Scholl, Architect, has been in Toledo since 1862, and built or been professionally connected with the following buildings: Wheeler Opera House, the original Hall Block ; Westminster, St. Mary's and St. Peter's Churches. He was Superintendent of the Toledo Water Works for five years, and Water Works Commissioner for three terms.
Albin Liebold has followed the business of practical Architect in Toledo since 1868, and built the following structures : St. Beatrice, St. Lucas and German Lutheran Churches; Churches at Waterville, Swanton and Ottawa Lake, Ohio; and many dwellings in Toledo and elsewhere. Beside the foregoing Architects now in business, are M F. Williams, W. H. Tappan and O. W. Vallette.
ALEXANDER DAWSON was born at Perthshire, Scotland, June 22, 1838. He is of Scottish parentage. His father was a Veterinary Surgeon, and was born in the North of Scotland, and died in 1870, at an advanced age. His mother's maiden name was Isabella Campbell. The son attended the Parochial and Evening Private Schools until his 15th year, when he began an apprenticeship at the trade of carpenter and joiner at Crieff Perth. After four years of that service, he worked at his trade for a time in Perth City, and then went to Edinburgh, where he remained until his departure for the United States, in the Spring of 1871, landing at New York. He remained there for four years, at first following his trade, and then taking contracts for the erection of buildings. In the fall of 1874. Mr. Dawson came to Toledo. After working for one year in the employment of others, he entered upon the business of Contractor and Builder, which e has since pursued. His shop, from the first, has been on Adams Street. His success has been entirely satisfactory, he having erected some of the largest and best public buildings in this and adjoining States. In 1877 he formed a partnership with John Anderson, the firm being Dawson & Anderson. Among the structures erected by them are Memorial Hall; the German Evangelical Church, corner Canton Avenue and Scott Street; and the Pennsylvania Railroad Depot; together with some of the most elegant and substantial residences in the City. But their operations have by no means been confined to Toledo. The following named buildings elsewhere will indicate something of their work abroad: Campbell University, Holton, Kansas; St. Boniface Church, Detroit, Mich.; Infirmary, Putnam County, Ohio; Court-Houses at Mackinaw and Kalkaska, Michigan, and at Galesburgh, Illinois; the high School at Bellefontaine, Ohio; Fraternity Hall, Galesburgh, Illinois; Art Museum, Detroit, Michigan; and several Churches and other public buildings in Kansas City, Missouri-some of which are magnificent edifices in architectural design and of most substantial construction. The nature of Mr. Dawson's business is such as to keep him away from home so large a portion of his time as to deny him the personal acquaintance with the people of Toledo which he would like; but he takes a deep interest in whatever concerns the City. His operations abroad bring him into personal relations with large numbers of Builders and Architects, by whom he is held in high esteem. He is a member of Toledo Lodge, No. 402, I. O. O. F., and of the Knights of the Golden Rule. Mr. Dawson was married in 1870, with Agnes Stevens, of Perthshire, Scotland. They have had seven children, of whom five are now living-two sons and three daughters. Mr. Dawson is a member of First Presbyterian Church, Toledo.
POST OFFICE RECORD.
As elsewhere stated, the first Post Office in Port Lawrence Township was established at TremainesviIle, and bore the name Port Lawrence, with Cyrus Fisher as Postmaster. The mail was carried three times a week on horseback, between Detroit and Lower Sandusky (Fremont).
When the Towns of Vistula and Port Lawrence were started (1832), each had a Post Office-Theodore Bissell and Junius Flagg acting as Postmaster for the former, and Stephen B. Comstock for the latter.
Upon the consolidation of the two Towns in 1833, the Post Office took the name of Toledo, with Comstock as Postmaster. ale served until 1836, when Emery D. Potter was appointed. In 1839, upon his election as President Judge of the Common Pleas Circuit, Mr. Potter resigned, and was succeeded by Joseph B. Gardnor, who continued until 1841, at which time Andrew Palmer was appointed. In 1845 Truman C. Events was made Postmaster, serving until the appointment of Hezekiah D. Mason in 1849. Upon the advent of the Pierce administration in 1853, General John E. Hunt, then of Maumee City, was made Postmaster at Toledo, to which place he removed and continued in the office until succeeded in April, 1861, by George Walbridge, who, living but a few weeks thereafter, was succeeded by Edward P. Bassett. In 1865 Dennison Steele was appointed, serving until 1866, when he was removed by President Johnson, by whom A. G. Clark was appointed, whose nomination not
812 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
being confirmed by the Senate, Alex. Reed was nominated and confirmed, serving until 1870, when ho was succeeded by E. V. McMaken. His successor was P. H. Dowling, appointed in April, 1874. In 1878 Charles H. Eddy was appointed, and on the expiration of his term in 1882, P. H. Dowling was again appointed, and held the office until 1887, when he was succeeded by George E. Lorenz, the present incumbent.
It will thus be seen, that there have been 17 different Postmasters at Toledo, including the three appointed for Vistula and Port Lawrence.
THE INTERNAL REVENUE OFFICE.
The act of Congress creating the Internal Revenue Bureau was approved July 1, 1862.
The several States were divided into Collection Districts substantially as for representation in Congress. The Tenth District of Ohio then consisted of the Counties of Lucas, Ful
ton, Wood, Defiance, Henry, Paulding, Putnam and Williams, with the Collector's office at Toledo. December 31, 1875, this District was consolidated with the Ninth, consisting of the Counties of Eric, Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky, Crawford and Seneca. August 1, 1883, the District was consolidated with the old Fourth District, consisting of the Counties of Champaign, Darke, Logan, Miami, and Shelby; and the old Fifth District, comprising Allen, Auglaize, Hancock, Hardin, Mercer, Van Wert and Wyandot.
The Collectors of the Tenth District have been as follows : Samuel A. Raymond, August 30, 186'2, to May 7, 1866; Harry Chase, May 6, 1866, to May 11, 1869; Joseph R. Swigart, May 12, 1869, to July 9, 1877; Clark Waggoner, July 10, 1877, to July 31, 1882 John F. Rumler, August, 1882, to January 1, 1887; George L. Johnson, since January 1, 1887. The Chief Deputies of the same District have been-George R. Tourtellott, under' Collectors
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Raymond, Chase and Swigart; Clayton P. Heath, under Collectors Waggoner and Kumler; and Irwin Belford, under Collector Johnson.
The present organization of the office is as follows: Collector-Geo. L. Johnson ; Deputy Collectors-Irwin Belford, Leroy E. Clarke, Constantine R. Konopak, Wm. M. Jones, John R. Conklin, Charles A. Kloeb and Miss Jennie McCormick ; Clerics-Jacob Kohn and George Hubler; Gaugers - W. D. Blackman, L. E. Merry and G. A. Brooks.
THE CUSTOMS DISTRICT.
The first Custom House opened in the Maumee Valley, was at Maumee City, in 1818, the District bearing the name of Miami. For a period of 15 years, the business was very small, being substantially limited to the traffic of Maumee and Perrysburg.
The first Collector of Customs was Samuel Spafford, who came from Cleveland, about 1817. He was succeeded by Dr. Horatio Conant. After him came James Jackson, who was succeeded by Charles C. P. Hunt (in office in 1835 and afterwards). In 1850 the Collector's office was removed to Toledo, James H. Forsyth, of Maumee, then being the Collector. He was succeeded by Charles W. Hilt, appointed by President Fillmore, who was followed by Josiah Riley, under President Pierce. His successor was Dennis Coghlin, who was removed, and E. D. Potter, Sen., appointed by President Buchanan in 1858, he serving until 1861, when Andrew Stephan succeeded him under President Lincoln. In 1866, President Johnson appointed John E. Hunt, Jr., for the position, who was rejected by the Senate. Patrick S. Slevin was appointed in 1867, reappointed in 1871, and resigned in 1874. John W. Fuller was then appointed and reappointed in 1878, serving two terms. Joseph B. Battelle was his successor in 1882, and was succeeded in 1886 by the present incumbent, William H. McLyman.
Collector Jackson was from Tennessee, and a relative of President Andrew Jackson. He was the father of William Jackson, an Engineer connected with the construction of the Ohio Canal, and of Mrs. Charlotte T. Forsyth, the mother of General James W., United States Army, Lieutenant G. Duncan, and Misses Marion A. and Charlotte S. Forsyth, of Toledo.
ASSESSOR OF INTERNAL REVENUE.
For about 11 years from the establishment of the Internal Revenue system, it included the office of Assessor, to whom was committed the, work of assessing and making return of taxes due. The first officer of that sort in the Toledo District was Ebenezer Graham, in 1862. Following him was M. W. Hubbell. He was succeeded by George E. Welles, who continued until the office was merged in that of the Collector of Internal Revenue, in 1873,
DENNISON STEELE was born at Williamstown, Vermont, August 18, 1815. He was a son of Hiram and Abigail (Kennan) Steele, both of whom were of English parentage. His father was a Lawyer. The son's boyhood was spent at Sackett's Harbor, where he received as good educational advantages as the locality furnished. In 1833 he accompanied his father and family to Perrysburg, Wood County, Ohio. Remaining there a short time, they removed to Maumee, then the most hopeful center of trade on the Maumee River. Dennison was not long in commanding the confidence of the people. He soon became Assistant Auditor of Wood County, and are long the Postmaster at Maumee; where he afterwards was Deputy Collector of Customs. He was engaged in the lumber trade for some time, beginning in 1838. From 1851 to 1854, he was Clerk of Lucas County, removing to Toledo when that City became the County- seat in 1852, where he continued to reside until his death. In 1859 he was elected as a Representative to the, Ohio Legislature from the Counties of Lucas and Fulton. As a member of that body at the outset of the War of the Rebellion, he actively co-operated in the provision of the means of defense which from the first gave Ohio special prominence among the loyal States of the Union. He was also prominent in resisting the sale, and other measures for improving the usefulness of the Canals of the State, his special influence being in the Committee-room. rather than in debate. Taking special interest in the cause of education, he served for several years as a member of the Toledo Board of Education. During Lincoln's Administration (in 1865) he was appointed Postmaster at Toledo, serving until removed by President Johnson in 1866. For many years he was actively interested in commerce, being an owner of Lake Vessels and agent for owners, as well as member of the Grain firm of Geo. Woodbury & Co. He was a man of conservative habits of' thought, and little inclined to hasty action in any matter. With clear views on questions of public policy, he was frank and decided in the course to be taken, his sympathies always being on the side of sound morals and the maintenance of law and order. Politically he was a Democrat until the Slavery agitation assumed the shape reached in 1854-5, when Ire took part with the Republican party, then organized. Throughout the Rebellion he was active in the support of the most vigorous measures for the defense of the Union, contributing his share to such purpose, and to the ail of the families of Soldiers. Mr. Steele's death occurred under specially painful circumstances. Returning to his residence from a Thanksgiving family re-union at the, house of a son-in-law, Mr. James Secor, November 29, 1871, he was suddenly stricken. with apoplexy, and after lingering a short time in an unconscious stale, life ceased with him,
814 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
His death was the cause of general expression of regret and of respect for his memory. For many years he was a member of the Masonic fraternity, uniting with Toledo Lodge No. 144, in 1847, and was at one time Grand Master. He received the degree of Red Cross June 10th, and became Knight Templar and Knight of Masonry, June 17, 1853. Mr. Steele was married November 4, 1838, with Miss Hettie R. Coles. They had six children-Julia E.,wife of George Woodbury; Charlotte A., wife of James Secor; Alice J. (deceased), wile of Spencer L. Fraser; Cora Frances, wife of Wm. A. Brigham; and Dennison and De Etta W. Steele.
TOLEDO FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The first step taken toward the organization of a Fire Department for the City of Toledo, consisted of a resolution passed by the City Council, November 27, 1837, which provided that whenever a number of citizens, not less than 40, should associate themselves together for the purpose of forming a Fire Company, the Company should be put in possession of an engine, hose, hose-wagon, hooks and ladders, etc. It was also provided, that such Companies should be known by numbers, the first to be No. 1. About that time, two Engines were received, from a Mr. Platt, the freight on which amounted to $56.93. December 6th Hoisington & Manning were paid $78.00, the cost of building "Engine-Douse No. 1," which was located on Cherry Street.
The first ordinance for regulating the Toledo Fire Department, was passed December 11, 1837. Among other things, it. provided that every owner or occupant of a building should keep good fire-buckets, made of leather, as follows: For buildings with one or two fireplaces or stoves, one bucket ; and for buildings with more than two fire-places or stoves, one bucket for every tit o such ; the buckets to contain three gallons each. The first Fire War dens of the City, appointed December 29, 1837, were James M. Whitney, Worden N. Richard. son and Daniel Segur.
January 29, 1838, the Council divided the City into three Wards. That arrangement continued until July 2, 1846, when four Wards were established; the dividing lines of the same from the River being Locust, Oak and Monroe Streets-all being on the West side of the River. Joseph B. Gardner, Secretary, gives notice of a meeting of the members of "Davy Crockett Fire Engine and Hose Company, No. 2, of the City of Toledo," for December 1, 1838.
J. W. B. Hyatt, Second Assistant Foreman, gave notice in February, 1839, for a monthly meeting of " Davy Crockett Fire Engine and Hose Company," at the Engine House.
The total expenditure by the City for current expenses of the Fire Department during the year 1838, amounted to $45.05. For purchase of engines, $1,909.50 had been expended.
November 30, 1840, the Council elected the followings officers for the City Fire, Department, to wit: Chief Engineer, Edward Bissell; First Assistant, .Richard Mott; Second Assistant, Walter Titus; Fire Wardens-First Ward, Junius Flagg; Second Ward, Peter H. Shaw; Third Ward, Wm. Hoskins.
At the same session, the Council resolved that there should be "two Hook and Ladder Companies in the City, and the Engineer be authorized to procure two fire-hooks and two ladders of sufficient length and strength for the purpose for which they were intended."
February 8, 1841, the Committee on Fire Department were instructed to ascertain "whether any Fire Companies slid, in fact, exist" at that time; and also to report upon the expediency of disbanding the same. February 22d W. N. Richardson, C. W. hill and C. G. Shaw and their associates, were authorized to organize a Company to be known as "Fire Engine and hose Company No. 1," to be the successor of Engine Company No. 1, disbanded. Under such authority, a new Fire Company was organized February 24, 1841, with the following members and officers:
Members-W. N. Richardson, C. W. Hill, C. G. Shaw, Thos. Southard, S. H. Bradford, Chas. Border, V. H. Ketcham, Samuel Eddy, John Ream, Elijah S. Hanks, Leverett Bissell, Geo. H. Rich, Erastus Boys, Bunnel P. Peckham, Junius Flagg, Geo. P. Clark, Henry Clark, H. G. Cozzens, W. H. Raymond, A. W. Fairbanks, Edson Allen, S. S. Blanchard, Blanchard, Manly Bostwick, Daniel Segur, Walter Titus, Jr., H. N. Lawton, C. H. Bentley, Joel W. Crane, Geo. Redding, Aldrice A. Belknap, J. N. Mount, W. H. Elder, Joseph Jones and J. J. Fullerton.
Officers-Foreman, J. J. Fullerton; First Assistant, C. G. Shaw ; Second Assistant, Leveret, Bissell ; Treasurer, Wm. H. Raymond; Secretary, Erastus Roys.
Of these the following named are yet living: W. H. Raymond, Edson Allen, and A. W. Fairbank.
March 15, 1841, the Council elected the following officers for the Fire Department: Chief Engineer, Edward Bissell ; First Assistant, Richard Mott ; Second Assistant, Walter Titus, Jr. Fire Wardens-First Ward, Junius Flagg; Second Ward, Peter H. Shaw; Third Ward, Lyman Wheeler.
In March, 1842, the Toledo Fire Department comprised the following officers : Chief' Engineer, David Crane; Assistants, Mayor Brigham and Walter Titus, Jr. Fire Wardens, Junius Flagg, Joseph Jones and Joseph M. Turner-Mr. Brigham now the only survivor.
May 3, 1842, the City Council took important action toward the provision of facilities for a Fire Department, in the passage of a resolution, directing the Chief of the Department to contract for the erection of "a house for a Hook and Ladder Company," and "that he superintend its erection; that he be paid $1.50 per day for such service; that a Hook and Ladder Company be organized ; and that said house be located on, Summit Street, and between Cherry and Adams Streets." The building
FIRE DEPARTMENT - 815
was constructed, Mayor Brigham acting as Superintendent at the price named.
The Council Committee on Fire Department, July 4, 1842, reported against the construction of reservoirs for the use of the Department.
The officers of the Department in 1844 were as follows : Chief Engineer, Edwin Avery; Assistants, B. P. Peckham and Robert Jeffrey; Fire Wardens-John N. Mount, First Ward; J. R. Bond, Second Ward; Coleman I. Keeler, Third Ward.
September 24, 1847, the City Council provided for the purchase of the Southeasterly part of lot 10, Port Lawrence Division, for $300; and for the improvement of the same by grading and the erection thereon of an Engine House to cost not to exceed $2,500.
March 20, 1848, was passed an ordinance " to regulate the Fire Department," which provided that the same should consist of "a Chief Engineer, a First and Second Assistant Engineer, 8 Fire Wardens, and such Fire Engine Men, Hose Men, Hook and Ladder Men, and Bucket Men," as were or might be from time to time appointed. The special duties of the several officers of the Department were set forth. Au abstract of that ordinance will show something of what were then the methods and means for protection against fires in the Towns of the West
The Fire Wardens were attached to and enrolled in Engine Companies (not less than two to each Company), and at every fire act with his Company, and assist in preparing stations and procuring water for Engines and Bucket Companies. They were to prevent the hose from being trodden on and keep all idle and suspected persons from the vicinity of the fire." They were also to cause the bystanders to form ranks for the conveyance of water if requisite," and the citizens were enjoined to comply with the orders and directions of the Wardens. These officers were to "attend monthly meetings for exercise." The Firemen were divided into Companies, to consist of as many members as from time to time may be directed by the City Council, "to attend the respective engines, hose-carts, hooks and ladders, axes, saws and other lire apparatus belonging to the City."
The entire Department was under the direction of the Chief Engineer and his Assistants. In order that the apparatus be kept in good condition, the Firemen were required, on the first of each month, to meet at their respective rooms and on such days from May to November, inclusive, to "draw out their respective apparatus, in order to cleanse the same and exercise the men." For neglecting to attend such meetings, the Firemen were liable to a fine of 50 cents; and for neglecting to attend a fire or refusing to obey orders when there, to pay a fine of $3.00, and be subject to expulsion. For permitting an engine or other apparatus to be used for private purposes, without proper permission, the person responsible therefor was to be filled $5.00 and made liable for any damage to tile property.
Provision was made, when necessary in order to stay tile progress of a fire, for blowing up, cutting down or removing any buildings, erections and fences. Hosemen were to be selected from the Fire Companies or from other citizens by the Chief Engineer, "to convey tine extra hose, if any, to every fire, and there distribute the same, as might be required by the Engineer." At fires, two men were to remain with hose-cart, the other Hosemen to repair to the engines. The Hosemen were to organize as a separate Company. Uniforms and badges of office were provided for. Firemen, on duty, were to wear uniform as provided by their Companies, respectively.
The Mayor and Aldermen, acting as such at fires, to bear a stall, painted white, with a gilded flame at the top; the Chief Engineer a leather cap, painted white, with gilded combs, and having a fire-engine and the words " Chief Engineer " in gilt in front, and carrying a black speaking-trumpet with the same words in white and a gold rim ; the Assistants to wear white leather caps, with black combs and gilded front, and the words " Engine No.-" (as the case might be) in black, and carry black speaking-trumpets, with their official rank on their caps ; Fire Wardens to wear hats with black rim-the crown and front white. with "Warden" in black, and carry trumpets; Foremen to wear black leather caps, with white fronts and tire word " Foreman" and No. of Company in black ; Foremen of Hook and Ladder Companies to have a hook and ladder in black on their craps.
A premium of $10.00 was provided for the Engine Company which should first arrive at a fire with its apparatus ready for use, and $5.00 to the Company arriving within 10 minutes thereafter. Book and Ladder Companies arriving at a fire in proper time and condition were paid premiums of $8.00 and $4.00. Penalties were provided for interference of any sort with the operations of the Firemen ; and for injury to the fire apparatus. Authority was given for requiring the aid of any citizen or inhabitant in drawing any engine or other apparatus to a fire, and a fine of $5.00 affixed in case of refusal by such party to obey.
All persons present at fires were made subject to the orders of the Mayor and Aldermen, Fire Wardens, and other officers, and made liable to arrest and a tine of $5.00 for refusal to obey such orders.
The several Companies were to meet in joint convention in March, annually, and nominate a Chief Engineer and Assistants, to be submitted to the City Council for action.
The Sextons of the several Churches furnished with bells, immediately upon an alarm of lire, should diligently ring such bells for the space of 20 minutes, under penalty, of a fine of $2.00 for neglect.
June 14, 1851, the City Council provided that foremen of Engine Companies Nos. 1 and 2, and (look and Ladder Company No. 1, should each procure a key to the Episcopal Church and keep the same in the rooms of' said Companies respectively. It was also provided, that in case of alarm of fire, the member of either of' said Companies who should first arrive at the room of his Company, should forthwith proceed to ring the bell of' said Church and continue to do so " until relieved by the Sexton of' the Church or until the bell of the Catholic Church should be rung." It was further provided; that the Company whose member should first ring said bell, should be entitled to a premium of $2.00, to be given to the member concerned, upon the vote of' the Company. Any member of a Company arriving before the ringing of the Episcopal bell, who should fail to ring the same, was made liable to a fine of $5.00, " to be recovered by an action before the
816 - HISTORY OF TOLEDO AND LUCAS COUNTY.
Recorder in the usual manner," while his Company should forfeit all title to a premium for service at such fire. In case the Sexton of the Catholic Church should fail to ring the bell of that Church within five minutes of the ringing of the Episcopal bell, he was to forfeit the amount payable to him for ringing the Catholic bell during the current month, which amount was made payable to the Company whose member should ring the Episcopal bell at the time of such neglect by the Sexton of the Catholic Church. It was further provided, that the premium offered for the earliest ringing of the Episcopal bell should not be paid, in case the Fireman ringing the same should fail promptly to lock the door of the Church and return the key to its proper place.
Upon the resignation of R. H. Bell as Foreman of Neptune Fire Company, in March, 1852, the thanks of his associates were voted for "the uniformly able and efficient manner" in which he had discharged the duties of the office; and also resolved to 'take into consideration the sound and kindly advice " given them by the retiring officer. P. F. Berdan was Mr. Bell's successor. John F. Schuerman was then the Secretary of the Company.
October 27, 1853, the City Council authorized the purchase of an Engine for Germania Fire Company, No. 4, and also for purchasing $1,000 worth of hose for the Department, "provided no commission should be charged or received by the Chief Engineer for purchase of the same."
For many years, the chief' officers of the Toledo Fire Department were appointed by the City Council, on nomination by the members of the several Companies, who annually assembled for such purpose. March 12, 1855, such meeting was held, when J. R. Bond was Chairman, and Thomas C. Mayhew Secretary, Jacob Landman and K. S. Dygert acting as Tellers. For Chief Engineer, E. B. Brown was chosen by a vote of 95, to 59 for J. R. Bond. Mr. Brown declining the office, J. R. Bond was chosen on the fourth ballot, receiving 90 votes, to 78 for Win. Kraus and 8 for W. H. Ketcham. For First Assistant, Andrew Shurtz was chosen, his vote being 92, to 67 for Wm. Kraus. Wm. S. Sizer was chosen Second Assistant, by 82 votes to 13 scattering.
March 9, 1857, the following officers of the Toledo Fire Department were elected : Chief Engineer, Wm. Kraus ; First Assistant, I. N. Hathaway; Second Assistant, C. D. Woodruff.
The Fire Department in 1858 was constituted as follows:
Chief Engineer, Wm. H. Ketcham ; 1st Assistant, Chauncey D. Woodruff; 2d Assistant, Guido Marx.
Hook and Ladder Company, No. 1-Foreman, Lewis C. Hunt. Membership, 60.
Fire Engine and Hose Company, No. 1-Foreman, Elias Avery. Membership, 70.
Fire Engine and Hose Company, No. 3 -Foreman, Christian Woehler, Membership, 70,
Fire Engine and Hose Company, No. 4-Foreman, F. Schoenig. Membership, 70.
Fire Engine and Hose Company, No. 5-Foreman, Thomas O'Neil.
Fire Engine and Hose Company, No. 6-Foreman, James S. Fifield. Membership, 70.
Fire Guards, No. 1-Foreman, Emil Marx. Membership, 30.
The annual report of Isaac N. Hathaway, Chief Engineer, made in May, 1861, stated that the Department was then constituted and equipped as follows:
In actual service, six Engine and Hose Companies, one Hook and Ladder Company, and one Company designated as Fire Guards.
Engine No. 1-Foreman, J. L. Stratton ; 1st Assistant. Jesse Hurlbut; 2d Assistant, Ernest Duden; Secretary, M. B. Bell; Treasurer, Charles W. Hail.
Hook and Ladder Company-Foreman, Minot I. Wilcox ; 1st. Assistant, James A. Boyd ; 2d Assistant, Charles Scott; Secretary, E. D. Peck; Treasurer, William B. Messinger; Steward, N. Gilsdorf.
Engine No. 2-Foreman, John Gildea ; 1st Assistant, John Bradley; 2d Assistant, John Martin ; Secretary, Frank Bohannon ; Treasurer, Declan Allen.
Engine No. 6-Foreman, George Platfoot; 1st Assistant, John Fork ; 2d Assistant, Patrick Mitchell; Secretary, Edward McCarty ; Treasurer John Kohne.
Hose No. 6-Foreman, John Pfanner ; 1st Assistant. Edward McMahon ; Secretary, J. D. O'Brien; Treasurer, John Kale.
Teutonia Fire Guard, No. 1-Foreman. John Oberle ; 1st Assistant, Frank Diete ; 2d Assistant, Nicholas Mayer; Secretary, Conrad Tanner; Treasurer, John Enderlin.
Hose Company No. 1-Foreman, John Worts ; Assistant, Ed. Border; Secretary, John H. Wood; Treasurer, Charles A. Chase.
The annual report of Chief Engineer Cummings, presented to the City Council March 17, 1863, shows the condition of the Department at that time:
GENTLEMEN:-The time has arrived when it becomes my duty to make report of the Fire Department for the past year. There have been during the year 22 fires, involving a loss of $285,000, which was covered by insurance to the amount of $131,000, making a total loss, over insurance, of $154,000. Of this loss $225,000 occurred at the burning of the Michigan Southern Elevators. The above returns of loss are as accurate as could be obtained.
There are now connected with the Fire Department, two Steam Engines, three Hand Engines, and one Hook and Ladder Company, with their Hose Carriages and Carts-all in good order with the exception of Hose Carts, which are now being made.
At the close of my term of office, I wish again to mention the importance of having Cisterns built at various points through the City for fire purposes. It is also important to have a Coal Cart to run to fires, to carry coal to the two Steamers. The City should own the Cart, and make arrangements with a drayman to haul it to fires.
Herewith is a statement of the receipts from various sources and expenditures for the Department during the year.
ROBERT CUMMINGS, Engineer.
The following officers of the Toledo Fire Department were chosen by the City Council in April, 1865: Chief Engineer, Luther Whitney; 1st Assistant, Patrick H, Galloway; 2d Assistant, Wm Glenn,
FIRE DEPARTMENT. - 817
The several Fire Companies of the City and locations of same, in May, 1876, were as follows
No. 1-Corner of Lagrange Street and Swan Lane.
No. 2-Corner Cherry Street and Eagle Lane.
No. 3-Water Street, between Adams and Madison Streets.
No. 4-St. Clair Street, between Perry and Washington.
No. 5-Corner of Broadway and Logan Streets.
No. 6-(To be located in East Toledo.)
No. 7-Corner of Franklin Avenue and Barcroft Street.
No. 8-Cooler of Indiana Avenue and Division Street.
The report of the Fire Department for 1886, contained the following table, showing the aggregate loss by fire in Toledo for each year during the six years ending December 31,1886
YEAR., Losses. Insurance. Ins. Paid. Loss over
Ins. Paid.
1881, $118,830 00, $501,649 00, $81,580 37, $37,249 63
1882 883,150 58, 1,390,125 00, 785,260 78, 97,889 80
1883 150,778 13, 447,870 00, 86,984 34, 63,793 79
1884. 486,301 90, 1,697,745 00, 426,116 80, 60,195 10
1885. 67,873 35, 1,014,417 00, 47,445 00, 20,419 35
1886, 135,899 37, 397,765 00, 129,471 03, 6,422 34
Total $1,842,833 33, $5,449,571 00,$1,556,854 32, $285,970 01
The services of officers and men of the Department were voluntary and gratuitous until 1867, when, with the exception of one Engine of the Fifth and one in the Sixth Ward, such were paid for, as all have been since 1868.
In 1887 the organization of the Fire Department was as follows
FULLY MANNED.
Three Steam Fire Engines.
One Hook and Ladder Truck.
Seven Hose Carts. Twenty-four Horses.
IN RESERVE.
One Hook and Ladder Truck.
One Steam Fire Engine.
Two Horses.
OFFICERS AND MEN.
At present the Department numbers 64 Officers and Men, as follows:
One Chief.
One Assistant Chief.
One Batteryman.
One Superintendent of Telegraph.
Eight Captains.
Twenty-one Pipemen.
Fourteen Drivers.
Four Engineers.
Four Assistant Engineers.
Five Tiller and Ladder Men.
Four Chemical Pipemen.
The first "fire limits" established within Toledo consisted of the square bounded by Summit, Jefferson, St. Clair and Monroe Streets, and were fixed by ordinance passed October 21, 1853, which prohibited the erection of any building or addition to any building more than 10 feet high and more than 10 feet square, within less than 10 feet of an „v other building, unless the outer wall of the same be of brick, stone or iron.
The members of Fire Company No.4, Toledo, composed mainly of Germans, in January, 1859, organized a Firemen's Benevolent Society, for their own benefit. Each member paid 50 cents admission fee and 25 cents monthly dues, and received $3 per week while disabled by sickness. Its officers were: President, Simon Kohn ; Vice President, G. W. Temme; Secretary, Emit Rutter; Treasurer, Henry Spielbusch ; Committee of Control Joseph E. Marx, John Toolman ; Trustees Guido Marx, John Gerkens, Ernst Buster.