CANTON TOWNSHIP - 325 most important feature of improvement inhering in the folding of the cutter over the front of the frame, allowing it to lie flat, securing unequaled convenience in transportation, and giving the Buckeye the pronounced lead over all competing harvesting machines. " It shut right up like a jack-knife," and was propelled on the road as easily as a two-wheeled cart. Aultman & Co. retained control of this valuable improvement, and no other make of machine could adopt it. They continued to sedulously experiment, making improvements from year to year in minor details, upon which they secured patents, taking out some twenty different patents, exclusive of those granted in 1858. For the season of 1859 they turned out 1,800 Buckeye mowers and reapers and 150 threshers, which number would have been considerably increased had it not been for the killing frosts in June of that year. They had licensed to build the Buckeye for certain territory. Running out of machines at Canton, they bought a number from the licensers and sold them in their territory. They invented an attachment to the Buckeye whereby the binding of grain was done by two men riding on the machine, of which they built but a few and only for that season. Their machines continued to be exhibited at fairs and tested at field trials, coming off victorious in every honorable contest. This extraordinary success greatly stimulated popular demand, and for the harvest of 1860 they constructed about 2,300 of the Buckeye and over 200 threshers. For 1861 they turned out 2,600 Buckeye machines and some 260 threshers. Notwithstanding the augmented production and the breaking out of the war, the demand was in excess of the supply, as the crops of that season were excellent. The means of the firm accumulated, so that they were now able to pay cash for their materials. For the harvest of 1862 they built over 3,000 of the Buckeye and upward of 300 threshers. Their trade now extended over a large territory, even to California, and into all parts of the Union, except that portion of the South which the war shut out from our commerce. In 1863, they constructed no less than 3,600 mowers and reapers and nearly 400 threshers. This was to them a very busy season, for they again greatly enlarged their works. In the fall and winter of 1862-63, their present commodious office building was erected, and during the summer of 1863 the capacity of their blacksmith shop was doubled, and a large molding shop, more than three times the size of the former one, was built. They also put in a fine 125 horse-power engine and a full complement of improved machinery. The demand for their agricultural machines had increased so rapidly, and their shipping facilities at Canton were so poor (fortunately, this drawback will not exist much longer), that they recognized the necessity of " branching out," and having carefully looked over the ground they finally determined to locate a branch establishment at Akron, that point seeming to afford the requisite additional advantages for their manufacturing purposes. Accordingly, in the fall of 1863 they commenced putting up their buildings in that city, and got out there 500 machines for the' harvest of 1864. Lewis Miller removed to Akron and became superintendent of the establishment there. These works have since been materially enlarged and improved, until they now turn out from 11,000 to 12,000 machines per year, employing at the present time nearly 500 mechanics. In 1864, the firm built about 4,500 mowers and reapers and 425 threshers, and in 1865, they built both at Canton and Akron about 8,000 Buckeye machines and 500 threshers. In March of that year, Mr. Thomas R. Tonner, one of the partners, died. He became an invalid in 1859, and was not able thereafter to confine himself closely to business. The decedent had constructed a will making liberal bequests to relatives, and turning over the residue of his estate to Mr. Aultman for management. In the fall of 1865, for the better organization of their immense business, both concerns were incorporated separately, under the State laws. The incorporators at Canton were C. Aultman, Lewis Miller, Jacob Miller and George Cook ; and those at Akron were C. Aultman, Lewis Miller, John R. Buchtel and George W. Crouse. The original capital of the corporation at Canton, which was continued under the style of C. Aultman & Co., was $450,000, which in 1870 was increased to $1,000,000, and about three years ago to $1,500,000. The first officers of the corporation of C. Aultman & Co. were : C. Aultman, President ; John Tonner, Secretary ; James S. Tonner, Treasurer ; Jacob Miller, Superintendent. The original capital of the Akron concern was $300,000, and about three 326 - HISTORY OF STARK COUNTY. years ago it was augmented to $1,000,000. This establishment was incorporated under the style of Aultman, Miller & Co., with the following officers : John K Buchtel, President ; George W. Crouse, Secretary and Treasurer ; Lewis Miller, Superintendent. About the year 1871, they commenced to export machines to European countries, and the foreign demand for the world-famed products of this establishment have since largely increased. They have won many honors at exhibitions and field trials abroad, and the " Buckeye " reaper and mower, " Sweepstakes " thresher and Canton Monitor engine are coming to be approximately as well known and highly appreciated across the Atlantic and Pacific as they are at home. At the present time, no part of the original buildings of C. Aultman & Co. is remaining, as at different times they have been rebuilt. In 1868, a considerable portion of the present colossal structures was put up, and from time to time they have continued replacing the old with the new, making extensive enlargements and modern improvements, until now they are entitled to the credit of having the largest agricultural machine manufactory in the world. A brief summing-up of the merits and advantages and most notable triumphs of the several Buckeye machines, followed by a sketch of the works of C. Aultman & Co., fitly concludes this article. Ever since the famous national field trial of mowing machines at Syracuse, N. Y., in July, 1857, when the " Buckeye " was awarded the highest prize, the grand gold medal, over all competing machines, its onward march in popular world-wide favor has been marked by a succession of brilliant triumphs in numerous competitive field trials with all other makes of mowers, not only on this continent, but in foreign countries as well—winning the laurels of victory in every fair and honorable contest. The frame of the Buckeye mower is made of cast iron, in one piece, braced with wrought iron. It is strong, stiff, and not at all liable to get out of line. The gearing is still constructed on the same admirable plan that was originally adopted for this machine. The system, one set of bevel gears to give the first and slower motion, and the spur gears to give the last and accelerated speed, is universally conceded to be the best, simplest, safest and most durable and perfect ever devised. Rival manufacturers have long cudgeled their brains in desperate efforts to bring forth a system of gearing or some original motion which would approach the Buckeye in simplicity and efficiency, but they have been compelled to give up in despair. The summing up of the principal advantages of the Buckeye comprehends its scientific simplicity and perfection of construction, superior strength and durability, thoroughness of work, lightness of draft, facility of operation and immunity from danger of serious accident to the driver. The new automatic side-delivery reaper is one of the greatest inventions of the age, and is built and sold only in connection with the Buckeye mower. The pronounced superiority of this apparatus, as compared with the so-called " reel-rake," is clearly manifest in its admirable operation. It will cut nearly 14 per cent, or about one-seventh, more grain per day, than any reel-rake having the same length cutter-bar, the horses walking at the same rate. Moreover, the Buckeye is guaranteed to have no equal in lodged and tangled grain, as is proven by the testimony of many practical, reliable farmers who have thoroughly tested its admirable qualities under the most adverse circumstances. The Buckeye dropper is a prime favorite with the farmers who do not raise very large crops, because it is the simplest form of reaper ; the easiest to handle and operate ; its work is equal to the best, and it is the least expensive. With the Buckeye as a dropper, the driver is enabled to drop the gavel at the proper time. which obviates scattering the grain, and being a front-cut machine, the platform is immediately under the driver's eye, thus relieving him of the straining and wearisome effort of constantly looking behind to ascertain the size of the gavel, while his attention should be upon the team and watching for obstructions. Taken in connection with the Buckeye, this is unquestionably the safest, simplest, most economical and reliable harvesting machine ever produced. The Buckeye Harvester is on every hand acknowledged to be the leading light-draft harvester in the field. In cutting with this machine, the cut grain falls directly upon a traveling endless apron, transmitting it to the double canvas elevator, which deposits it all upon the binding table. Two men bind the sheaves, laying the bundles upon a slatted table, until half a shock is gathered, when all is dropped ready CANTON TOWNSHIP - 327 for shocking. It is claimed that with regard to perfect proportions, superior material and workmanship, simplicity and strength, ease of management, excellent finish and great capacity, the Buckeye harvester stands without a peer. These harvesters are so made that a self-binding attachment can readily be affixed subsequently, should it be desired. The many advantageous conveniences of this popular machine need only be seen to be appreciated. The Buckeye self-binder machine did not enter the competitive field as early as some others, but in the few seasons that it has been in the market, its success has been such as to win the highest encomiums of praise from all who have given it a fair trial. Messrs. Ault-man & Co. promise for the harvest of 1881 a self-binder with important improvements, placing it as to intrinsic merit in advance of anything in this line ever brought before the public. In construction, it is singularly simple, and therefore not at all liable to .get out of order, while in all its working parts the most ingenious devices are adopted to secure the most satisfactory results from its use. It is a wonderful labor-saver, requires but little attention in operation, and is destined to triumph over all competition. It uses less wire than any other binder the tightness of the band is regulated by a tension, speedily adjusted, and this tightness is limited only by the strength of the wire. The grain saved by the binder will pay for the wire consumed. A host of those who have used this admirable device testify that it proves all that is claimed for it in every description of grain. For the long period of twenty-nine years the incomparable Sweepstakes thresher has been manufactured by Messrs. C. Aultman & Co., and they have spared neither effort nor expense to bring it to a state of absolute perfection. The practical record of the Sweepstakes exhibits a series of magnificent successes that is altogether without a parallel, and it is such as to afford the purchaser the most emphatic guarantee of entire satisfaction in its use. Great improvements have been made from year to year, and sufficient time has elapsed to thoroughly test the threshers, as now built, in all conditions of grain, as well as in flax, timothy, clover and rice. No other thresher has been so severely tested, and the grand result fully justifies its manufacturers in claiming for the Sweepstakes the championship of the thresher family in America. The needs of threshermen for a better engine than had ever been built had long been pressed upon the attention of the manufacturers of the Bucket' e machines. Forced by these requirements upon them, in the centennial year they commenced the construction of the Monitor engine. The best skilled advice and the ripest experience of the most practical threshers and mechanics were brought into requisition to aid them in making the portable engine which would be pronounced nearest perfect. After fully consulting every plan presented, they made choice of the vertical engine and boiler, of the model upon which the Monitor is built. It was exactly adapted to a special field of operations, and the satisfaction rendered by it has been so perfect that it cannot be overstated, and its decided advantages over other engines are attested by the emphatic and unsolicited approbation of all who have used it. Every year, so far, the number required of them has been greatly in excess of the manufacturing capacity of the works, and this has compelled them to make a large addition to their shops, which will double their facilities for turning out these universally approved engines. Parties who have experimentally tested the Canton Monitor Traction Engine, and those who have had it in use during the last two years, speak in unqualified terms of its extraordinary working qualities, pronouncing it a perfect success in all respects. For propelling, threshing and machinery operating purposes it stands without a rival. A farmer who has thoroughly tested it says : " It has so far answered every call upon its resources, and is always ready for use. I have a Taylor & Chandler muley side-cut saw-mill, and your 10-horse engine drives it at the rate of 400 to 500 strokes per minute, and the thing works like a charm. I am now running a full line of flax machinery, consisting of a roller gang break, beater, picker, etc., and have abundant power. I prefer the Monitor because the number of flues gives a greater heating surface. The boiler being perpendicular, the action of the fire comes directly upon the heating surface. It requires less fuel and also a shorter time to raise steam. The cylinder, placed between the steam chest and the heater, is protected from the cold atmosphere—therefore there is less condensing in 328 - HISTORY OF STARK COUNTY. the cylinder and less bilging and being per- pendicular, it is not liable to become untrue through the wear of the weight of the machinery, as is the case in a horizontal engine. As a traction or locomotive engine, I consider it superior." The compound or " jack-in-the-box " gear is a very ingenious device, whereby one wheel may be made to revolve independent of the other, so that in turning, the wheel going the faster receives the greater power, thus enabling the engine to be headed in any desired direction with great facility. No other portable engine has this admirable feature. The independent steam pump for supplying and emptying the boiler, which can be run with or without the main engine, is also a most advantageous adjunct. A massive sprocket chain running over sprocket wheels communicates the power from the fly-wheel to the countershaft, which is much stronger, more direct and reliable than the bevel gearing ordinarily used. Among the latest improvements is the link motion, similar to that of the locomotive, whereby the engine can be propelled forward or backward without stopping. The speed on the road is regulated by a governor, while the starting and stopping, reversing and steering, are under perfect control of the engineer without leaving his seat. It is fitted up with all necessary steam engine connections, and the gear is encased in order to exclude all dust and dirt. The whole engine rests on rubber springs, preventing concussion, and all in all it is the most complete and successful traction engine ever invented. This colossal establishment took its start in Canton in the year 1851, with a working capital not exceeding $4,500. The original proprietors were Cornelius Aultman, Lewis Miller, Jacob Miller and George Cook, the latter now deceased. They and their associates were the original inventors and patentees of all the Buckeye harvesting machines. The more recent additions to their list of successful manufactures are the Buckeye Self-Binding Harvester, the Canton Monitor Engine, and the Traction Road Engine, all of which are well calculated to conserve the exalted reputation of this house for producing the most celebrated and efficient agricultural machines in the world. The works embrace the following named structures : Building for threshing and wood-working machinery, brick, 400 by 50 feet, four floors. Reaper warehouse, brick, 181 by 60 feet, four floors. Iron machinery building, brick, 147 by 60 feet, four floors. Iron finishing building, brick, 70 by 60 feet, three floors. Core, pattern and engine house, brick, 150 by 60 feet, two floors. Engine shop, brick, 302 by 50 feet, two floors. Molding room, brick, 125 by 75 feet, one floor. Blacksmith shop and iron room, brick, 313 by 41 feet, one floor. Five acres of wooden structures, comprising wagon shop, boiler works, testing house, paint shops, store-rooms for thresher and engines, etc. These structures have a total floor area of 459,528 square feet, or upward of ten and a half acres, being some three and a half acres larger than the next largest agricultural implement works in existence. This mammoth establishment has eleven distinct departments, giving employment to an aggregate of 550 skilled workmen, the monthly pay-roll amounting to $25,000. The motive power comprises two engines each of 120-horse power, and one engine of 50-horse. Their products find a ready and expanding market in both hemispheres. While at the works, we noticed a shipment of their world-celebrated machines to Algiers, Africa. They have branch offices and supply depots at Paris, France, London, England, Baltimore, Chicago, Cincinnati, and other leading distributing points, while they also have general and local agents in all the agricultural sections. Agricultural machinery has revolutionized the pursuits of the farmer throughout the civilized world, and Canton may justly be proud of the pre-eminence which the success of C. Aultman & Co.'s works have achieved for her. Their growth and development have been coincident with her own, and in the past history of Canton they have been a very great part of that growth. But, in addition to the above described works, and the brief history of the Ball works included therein, the citizens of Canton are equally proud of her other manufacturing interests that within the past few years have assumed such large proportions. The history and description of those that follow we glean from the same source as that which precedes. And first we call attention to the Peerless Reaper and Mower, which was invented and originally brought out by Mr. W. K. Miller in the year 1857, and put on the market by Russell & Co., of Massillon, Ohio. It was the third successful two-wheeled mowing CANTON TOWNSHIP- 329 machine with flexible finger-bar, being preceded in its introduction by only Ball's Ohio and the Buckeye. The distinctive and patentable feature in the Peerless was the manner of connecting the finger-bar and cutters to the main frame. The original patents were issued to Mr. Miller, the inventor, in 1857. The Peerless was the first successful two-wheeled reaper, in this, that it was the initial introduction of a practically operative flexible reel. Formerly, the two-wheeled machine had carried the raker on the main truck, who reeled in the grain by hand and discharged the sheaf on gavel in the rear of the platform ; or placed him on the platform, so that the gavel was discharged with a hay fork—both of which plans were objectionable. But in the Peerless the reel was made to conform to the inequalities of the ground, as did likewise the finger-bar—these parts acting independently in their up and down movements of the main truck, while in their progressive course they were controlled by the truck upon which the raker was seated, who discharged the gavels at one side of the platform, with an ordinary hand rake, leaving room for the machine on its return cut. The Peerless was the first machine to adopt the valuable device whereby the finger-bar could be successfully folded and carried in a perpendicular position, thus facilitating transportation. In the year 1871, commodious brick buildings were erected in Canton by the new firm of C. Russell & Co., and the manufacture of the Peerless machine was thereupon transferred from Massillon to this city. The Canton firm comprised the following members : Clement Russell, N. S. Russell, Joseph K. Russell, Thomas H. Russell, George L. Russell, James S. Tonner and W. K. Miller, who continued to improve and manufacture the Peerless up to and including the year 1878, at which time the machine was thoroughly re-formed in all its parts, except in the devices used and manner of arrangement for giving motion to the cutters, which in previous protracted use had proved practically perfect and all that was required. This last re-organization was effected, not so much because of defects in the mechanism, but only to modify the machine to existing requirements demanded by the modern popular fashion. A large request had been made for smaller and lighter machines which should possess the features of greater simplicity, reduction in number of parts, superior convenience, accessibility and durability. Hence, with a view to satisfying these demands of progressive farmers, the new Peerless was invented and introduced to the public for the harvest of 1879, embracing all its old, long-tested and well-established characteristics, with the addition of a newly-organized sweep-rake, patented by W. K. Miller. This highly approved rake differs from that upon the old Peerless in these important particulars : It is divested of about one-half its former weight of material ; is located near to the cutters and point of vibration ; requires no adjustment for different kinds, qualities or conditions of crops—harvesting with equal ease and perfection the shortest barley or the tallest rye. This greatly improved rake is entirely under the facile control of the driver, who can make the sheaves as frequently as desired, accommodating its operation to any condition of grain, whether light or heavy ; or it may readily be arranged to work automatically altogether. The cutting apparatus with rake and platform attached are also under easy control of the driver, who can raise or depress the cutters and rake, for the purpose of gathering up short, tangled or fallen grain, thus preventing all waste. The Peerless Reaper Company, successors to the firm of C. Russell & Co., was organized December 1, 1879, having been duly incorporated under the State laws thirty days before. Officers : Isaac Harter, President ; W. A. Creech, Treasurer ; W. K. Miller (inventor of the Peerless Reaper and Mower), Superintendent. Their works in Canton are finely located, directly on the line of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railway, and in all their arrangements they are specially adapted to the peculiar business carried on therein. The main building, a substantial brick slate-roof structure of four floors, including basement, measures 225x50 feet, with an " L " 60x210 feet, a part with two floors and a part (the foundry), one floor and a center spur 40x150 feet, one floor, containing the engine room and smith-shop. The engine is of 80-horse power, and the battery of two tubular boilers, 120-horse. The works have a fine equipment of modern improved machinery and every needed facility for systematic and economical production. Their present annual capacity is 5,000 machines, employing 200 hands. The Peerless Mowers and Reapers 330 - HISTORY OF STARK COUNTY. have found a ready market all over this continent, and have been considerably introduced in France, Germany, Belgium, Norway and Russia. The Canton establishment of the noted corporation known as the Whitman & Barnes Manufacturing Co. is a branch of the Akron and Syracuse houses, and was put in operation in November, 1878, in the works formerly occupied by Ballard, Fast & Co. Mr. George A. Barnes is the efficient Superintendent. ''Here are manufactured for the local harvesting machine companies superior mower and reaper knives and sickles, the works turning out some 50,000 " sections " per month, and 3,500 knives. The power is supplied by a fine 90-horse power engine. Forty hands are employed, to whom the sum of $1,300 is disbursed monthly for wages. The premises have a frontage of 320 feet on Walnut street, 200 feet on the railroad, a depth of 138 feet, and a rear measurement of 170 feet. Officers of the Whitman & Barnes Manufacturing Co.: George Barnes, President ; A. L. Conger, Vice President ; George E. Dana, Secretary ; I. C. Alden, Treasurer W. W. Cox, Assistant Treasurer. The excellence of the goods produced by the vast corporation under notice has secured for them the patronage of the largest and most reputable mower and reaper manufacturers, both in America and Europe. In their several establishments, they employ a total of 400 skilled workmen, while their aggregate annual production, which is steadily increasing, already reaches the sum of $650,000. The Torrent Light-Power Boiler Feed-Pump, manufactured by E. E. Miller & Co. is attracting much attention among engineers, experts and the class of manufacturers who have occasion to use steam-pumps, by reason of its novel and ingenious mechanism, and its practical efficiency, wonderful convenience and unequaled economy in service. This model pump is the result of long and patient study on the part of its inventors, E. E. and C. M. Miller, of this this city, and they are entitled to great credit for their signal success in devising and perfecting so useful an adjunct to the steam engine, and which has been accorded the highest encomiums of commendation by the many who have put it into practical use. This pump supplies a want long felt by those employing light steam power ; and it is especially designed and adapted for use in connection with threshing, traction, sawing, portable and small stationary engines, as it combines all the requisites which go to constitute a successful independent boiler-feeder, that can be run irrespective of whether the main engine is in motion or not. Being entirely independent of the engine, as it takes the steam direct from the boiler, it can be located at any convenient and advantageous point in the boiler or engine room. It can be run fast, slow, or stopped entirely, as desired, thus relieving the engine proper from the constant friction and wear of an attached pump which must be kept in operation while the engine is running, whether needed or not. It will work perfectly under any given pressure of steam, requiring not the least regulating or attention. The lifting power of the " Torrent" is greater than that of any inspirator or injector, and it can easily be run by hand with the same power when there is no steam. Using the expansive steam, it effects a material saving of steam over all pumps without fly-wheels, and the so-called injectors, etc. It is impossible to burst the feed-water pipes, when by carelessness or otherwise the water is shut off between the pump and boiler, as by the excessive pressure on the plunger the Torrent will be immediately stopped. Mr. C. M. Miller, one of the inventors of the Torrent pump, is also the inventor of the celebrated " Canton Monitor Engine " and " Traceton Engine," manufactured by C. Aultman & Co., of whose engine and boiler departments he is the efficient general superintendent. The Torrent independent pump is used on both these engines, with the best results. The fact that it is adopted by the above-named firm is a first-class indorsement of its merits. Although in the market but a short time, it is rapidly superseding the ordinary attached pumps and injectors long before the public, which is sufficient evidence of its excellent work. There is not a State in the Union where this pump has not been introduced, while in Chicago and the Northwest, it has already had a large sale, and where it is in constantly increasing demand. The success of the firm of Joseph Dick & Bro. is something noteworthy. They commenced business here some five years ago, in the manufacture of hay, straw and corn-stalk cutters, splitters and crushers, small horse- CANTON TOWNSHIP - 331 powers, etc. The first year they made just seven cutters, while last season the number turned out was over 400, and this was considerably less than the number ordered. This remarkable increase is indicative of the fact that they have been fortunate enough to hit upon the most practical and effective device for the given purpose ever contrived—the ingenious invention of Mr. Joseph Dick. These approved machines have been shipped to all parts of the Union, as well as to Australia, and wherever introduced and operated they give complete satisfaction, on account of their strong and simple mechanism, easy and rapid working, and perfection in cutting, splitting' and crushing. These machines are made of different sizes, the largest having a capacity for cutting from 3,000 to 5,000 pounds per hour, according to material and length of cut. They are suited for either steam or horse power, and so arranged as to cut on both sides of the main shaft, thus cutting from two boxes instead of one. The shear-plates are made adjustible, and are independent of the working parts. All the working parts are encased. The advantages claimed for this apparatus are that it will cut hay, straw, etc., in a superior manner ; also that it will cut, split and crush corn-stalks with or without the ears on ; that the splitting and crushing device will not destroy the tender parts of the stalks, while reducing the coarse portion to a proper grade of fineness ; besides other meritorious features previously enumerated. Messrs. Dick & Bro.'s one to six horse-powers are in extensive use for driving their feed cutters, etc., with or without a belt or jack. Their band-jacks, of two sizes, are similar to the ordinary jack used for threshing purposes, with the exception of being arranged to hitch the coupling on either shaft, so that the line-shaft can be attached direct onto the pulley-shaft if desired, and a slower speed attained than if the line-shaft is attached to bevel gear wheel shaft. This firm likewise manufacture Joseph Dick, Jr.'s, patent combined hand and foot power attachment. Mr. Dick has devoted much time and study to devising a plan whereby the hand-crank can be combined with an oscillating foot-treadle so as to obtain a power from both devices simultaneously by one operator. He has succeeded in perfecting this valuable improvement, by which greatly increased power can be obtained over the ordinary vibrating, treadle. This admirable arrangement can be applied to a great variety of hand-power machinery, and needs only a trial to be highly appreciated. All the aforenamed appliances are meeting with splendid success. A look through the extensive and finely-equipped Red Jacket Plow Works of A. Ball & Co. presents a scene of great activity and industry, affording the beholder an idea that something is made here which is in popular request. This is found to be the famous Red Jacket" Plow—an implement which has gained wide renown over a large portion of the Western country. This plow is indeed " a thing of beauty," as well as utility, economy, strength and durability. The beam is made of the best quality of wrought angle iron, by means of a novel and ingenious device invented and patented by Mr. Ball, which forms and perfects the beam at a single operation, and without the use of which this peculiar beam could not be constructed. It is the only beam ever contrived that forms a direct attachment and support to every part of the plow, while its curved shape insures the greatest strength and rigidity, certainly superior to any wood or or cast beam. Its unapproached lightness, firmness and durability, as well as adaptability to various conditions of soil, combine to render the " Red Jacket " a most desirable, economical and easy working plow. That it is in high favor with the farming community is demonstrated by the fact that the demand therefor is constantly in excess of the supply, thus necessitating a large addition to the works this season, whereby their producing capacity will be increased fully one-third. No traveling men are employed, as these superior implements sell readily on their merits. While Messrs. Ball & Co. make the Red Jacket Plow their leading specialty, they also manufacture some fifteen other kinds and styles of plows, to suit different soils and conditions, including the favorite " Tornado brand, all of which find appreciative patrons in the various sections of country, to the requirements of which they are best adapted. The Red Jacket Plow Works are as well and substantially built shops as any in the State. The main building is of brick, two stories, with dimensions of 70x100 feet ; the 332 - HISTORY OF STARK COUNTY. blacksmith and molding shop, 100x40 feet ; the grinding and finishing department, 36x50 feet ; the engine room, 36x20 feet ; the warehouse 30x140 feet. These works are very conveniently arranged, and supplied with every modern mechanical device calculated to facilitate and economize the manufacture of the several styles of plows here produced. The number of hands given regular employment is thirty, and the total value of implements turned out in 1879 was $50,000, which aggregate will be considerably exceeded this year. The Red Jacket and other plows made in this establishment are well known and in extensive use throughout the States of Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin and Western Pennsylvania, and the demand therefor is steadily augmenting. Messrs. A. Ball & Co. have been proprietors of these works some three years, and by superior skill, indefatigable efforts and excellent management, they have carried this industry forward to a condition of substantial prosperity. Bucher, Gibbs & Co. also manufacture plows on a large scale, at their extensive works on East Tuscarawas street, which have a widespread and well-deserved reputation. They are an old company, well situated, and their work is well done and well known over a large extent of country. They have done much to build up and establish the building of Canton on a firm foundation. They employ between seventy and eighty hands, and turn out about $120,000 of work annually. The Chieftain Hay Rakes are also manufactured in Canton in great numbers, and are widely and favorably known, never failing to give satisfaction where they have been introduced, and that is in every direction, both far and near. They are always in demand, and meet with a ready sale. The business was carried on by Mrs. J. B. Wilson, admirably and successfully, for several years after the death of her husband, who started the business many years ago. Her father, Adam Koontz, deceased, was an excellent business man, and she seems to have inherited much of his business ability. There was probably no business in Canton carried on more systematically, energetically or successfully than hers. A short time, about a year, ago, she disposed of the business to several parties, who, under the title of the Chieftain Hay Rake Company, have since carried it on. The inventor of Ney's Patent Lever Hay Elevator and Conveyer, having for years been engaged in building and putting up hay elevators, found that most of those in use did not properly perform their work, and failed of giving satisfaction to the farmers employing them. He therefore set at work to invent an elevator that would embody all the advantages and avoid the defects of those heretofore in use ; one that would give entire satisfaction. This he claims to have done in the invention which we describe in this article. This invention, as set forth in the inventor's application for letters patent, relates to the controlling of the carriage and the operation of the elevating-head in that class of elevators in which the load is elevated by means of a head or block operated by a rope and pulleys, to a carriage or frame which travels back and forth on an elevated track, and carries the load held by the head to any desired point within the limits of the track ; and it has for its objects to simultaneously lock the elevating-head and release the carriage when the load has been elevated, and to simultaneously release the elevating-head and lock the carriage when it is returned after the load has been deposited, both of which operations are performed automatically, to prevent any accidental movement of the devices by which the locking and releasing are obtained, and to guide and operate the elevating-head so as to insure its engagement with the locking devices and attachments to the carriage or frame ; and its nature consists in providing a stationary disk having a concave face, and locked at one end of the track, and arranged to engage with a locking lever, or arm, and hold the carriage or frame while the load is being elevated, and release the elevating-head when the carriage is returned, for which purpose the lever, or arm, is provided with a projection, which engages the concave face of the disk ; in providing a spring located on the locking lever, or arm, for preventing any accidental movement of the arm ; in providing a hook or latch pivoted or connected to the arm, or lever, so that the movement of the arm, or lever, will operate the hook or latch as required, for engagement with or disengagement from the elevating-head ; in providing a bell-shaped guide, located on the carriage or frame beneath the engaging hook or latch, and having an opening into which the point or latch projects, through vv hich opening CANTON TOWNSHIP - 333 a slatted point on the elevating-head can pass to engage the locking arm, or lever, and operate the lever to throw the latch or hook into engagement with the elevating-head. The attachment of the lifting rope is such that it cannot twist, and even if it did it would be all right before the lifting-head had reached the locking arm or lever. However formidable may seem the description of this new invention, it is but proper to remark that its operation is simple and perfect. In short, as a labor saving device, it is a pronounced success. These elevators are manufactured by Messrs. Ney & Kinney, at Canton, Ohio. The great corporation, known as the Diebold Safe & Lock Company, operates the second largest industrial establishment in Canton, and has accomplished much in the direction of disseminating and conserving the fair fame of this city's products for positive excellence in style, quality, finish and durability. The business, of which this vast concern is the outgrowth, was originally established many years ago in Cincinnati by the firm of Diebold, Bahman & Co., who were succeeded by Diebold & Kienzle. Their business so rapidly increased that in the course of time their manufacturing facilities proved inadequate to meet the augmenting demand for their superior safes, and consequently they concluded to seek another site for the erection of new and greatly enlarged works. Finding in Canton an eligible location for this enterprise, they determined to remove their establishment from Cincinnati to this city, which change was effected in the year 1872. To accommodate their expanding operations, they had erected extensive brick workshops, especially designed and adapted for the requirements of this particular industry, and in its admirable plan of arrangement, convenience in every department, and facility and economy of manufacturing operations, the firm brought to bear their combined skill and experience, thus developing and completing the model safe works of the world. This is the only safe manufactory on the continent specially built and arranged for the purpose to which it is devoted, and unquestionably its facilities for the rapid production of safes, if equaled, are unsurpassed. Since these works were first erected, it has been found necessary*, in order to answer the growing popular demand for their product, to considerably enlarge their capacity, so that the structures now occupied are of such magnitude as to constitute one of the most conspicuous objects in this thriving industrial city. The main building is of brick, with slate roof, 50 feet in width, having a frontage of 400 feet on Mulberry street ; 250 feet on the line of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad, and 150 feet south on the alley. This series of mammoth buildings, forming three sides of a hollow square, is of two stories. The brick attachments or spurs, each of one story, running east from the Mulberry street section, comprise the filling room. measuring 100x40 feet ; the brass foundry, 75x40 feet ; the engine room, 25x30 feet, and the smith shop, 45x75 feet. There are, besides, several frame buildings in the rear, used for the storage of materials. The buildings are heated throughout by steam. Each department is supplied with a full equipment of improved machinery and appliances requisite to the expeditious performance of the work in its several stages, and there is no device or convenience which the test of science and experience could commend as advantageous which has not been adopted by this enterprising and progressive concern. Their arrangements for receiving materials and shipping finished product are all that need be desired. A siding from the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad runs right by the doors of the works, and connection is also had with the new Valley Railway, so that the raw materials can be unloaded just where they are wanted, and the ponderous safes, which are shipped to all parts of the country, are " skidded " directly on to the cars for transportation, without expense for handling or drayage. The present capacity of the works is thirty complete safes per day. In the year 1874, the style of the firm changed to Diebold, Norris & Co., and in 1876, a joint stock company was organized and incorporated, under the name of the Diebold Safe & Lock Company, and the business has since been conducted by this corporation, who, with ample capital, thorough equipment and perfect system, fortified by long practical experience, are enabled to successfully compete with all other makers of safes. The officers of the company are W. W. Clark, President ; John W. Norris, Vice President ; D. Tyler, Secretary 334 - HISTORY OF STARK COUNTY. and Treasurer. The gentleman last named has general charge of the works and their products. Branch stores and warerooms of the company are established at 57 State street, Chicago, under the management of Mr. John W. Norris, Vice President ; at 312 California street, San Francisco ; 27 Canal street, New Orleans ; 103 Superior street, Cleveland ; 291 Broadway, New York ; 56 Sudbury street, Boston ; 89 Main street, Houston, Texas. At all these distributing depots a full line of these safes is carried. There is no occasion for hesitancy in stating that the manufactures of this estestablishmenthich are to be found in almost every place of any importance on this broad continent, have withstood the severest tests from fire, and the desperate attempts of burglars, with more uniform success than any other make of safes on the market. The great fire in Chicago fully demonstrated their splendid heat-repelling qualities. No less than 878 of the Diebold safes were subjected to that terribly trying ordeal, and the record shows that they preserved their contents intact and uninjured. Had they never been thus tested in any other instance, this single striking fact would be amply sufficient to convince every one of their strictly fire-proof qualities ; but in thousands of cases have they been tried with equal severity, and with equally successful results. Hence there is now no question raised on this score. Quite as important, however, is the assurance of a safe being absolutely burglar-proof. That this can justly be claimed for the safe under notice is evidenced by brief reference to its approved scientific principle of construction. The entire surface is of solid steel of a quality and temper best capable of resistance to hammering and drilling. The improved tenon and groove employed renders these safes air-tight and prevents the introduction of wedges or explosive compounds ; while by the use of the Burton cutoff spindle, which this company exclusively controls, angular connection is made with the lock, thus obviating direct entrance. The lock itself is thoroughly protected by alternate layers of iron and steel, which are perfect protection against both powder and drill. Thus is this usually most vulnerable part of the safe rendered absolutely impenetrable. Another of the notable improvements adopted by this company is a patent round-cornered door, of which they are the sole manufacturers, protected by patent issued in 1877, whereby the strength and inaccessibility of their safes are greatly promoted. All in all, it can advisedly be claimed that for reliability, durability and mechanical perfection, the Diebold Safe & Lock Co.'s safes are without an equal in the market. Their line of manufacture comprises bank, store, office and house safes, safe-deposit vaults and vault doors, express boxes and railroad safes, jail and other wrought-iron work wherein superior strength and safety are factors. A safe-deposit vault for the German-American Bank, St. Paul, Minn., has recently been completed by this company. This burglarproof work has outer walls of solid metal two and a half inches thick, constructed of one slab of the Chrome Steel Co.'s five-ply metal, one of Park Bros. & Co.Co.,sve-ply, one of Anderson & Co.'s five-ply, a fourth of Park Bros. & three-ply, and one layer Of charcoal iron inside. The corners are perfectly solid—the steel being specially angled for the purpose, so that the would-be burglar has no advantage from a corner seam or joint to start with. The method employed for making the metal for safe walls may be briefly described as follows : If for five-ply, then three pieces of iron are set in the ingot mold at the proper distance apart, and the intervening spaces filled with molten steel. The ingot is then rolled into slabs, and is'is readyr the safe-maker's use. When three-ply is to be made, the same process is followed, except that only one piece of iron is set into the mold. This company make all the locks for their safes and vaults of the combination patted', and they are pronounced unexcelled in point of safety, it being actually impossible to pick them, or to throw back the bolts without knowing the combination. Their largest piece of work was the San Francisco Safe Deposit Company's vaults. The vault of this magnificent safe has dimensions of twenty-seven feet in width, thirty-two feet in length, and fourteen feet in height. Its walls are of the best welded wrought iron and steel, three inches in thickness, and compactly knitted together by double rows of conical bolts. The sides, floor and top are overlaid with nine inches of fire-proof cement, with an outer layer of iron—the whole adjusted in heavy masonry. The vault is provided with double doors at either end, the outer ones being   CANTON TOWNSHIP - 335 six inches thick, each made inaccessible to the unauthorized by two of the Diebold Safe & Lock Co.,s Peerless Burglar-proof Locks. The interior of the vault has 4,600 compartments, varying in dimensions, 3,000 of which are furnished with key locks, separately and distinctly operative, and the remaining 1,600 have superior combination locks. This wonderful product of mechanical ingenuity and skill was awarded to the Diebold Company, in competition with about a dozen bidders, and was completed to the entire satisfaction of the parties for whom it was constructed, at an expenditure of $100,000. Some idea of the magnitude of this contract may be formed when it is stated that no less than forty-seven cars were required to transport these colossal vaults in sections across the continent. The manufacture of this monster specimen of mechanic art may well be denominated one of the signal achievements of American skill and enterprise. The Merchants' Safe Deposit Vaults, owned and controlled by the Merchants' National Bank of Chicago, are probably, next to the San Francisco vault, the largest in the country, and were constructed by the Diebold Co. This magnificent vault is one of Chicago's objects of interest, and is inspected by visitors with many expressions of confidence in its impregnability, and the utility and convenience of the safe depositories. These vaults have a capacity for over 4,000 safe deposit boxes.. A large majority of the banks and corporations of Chicago use the Diebold safes, as do also the American and United States Express Companies, the North-Western and other railroads, and the leading merchants, prominent among which are Field, Leiter & Co.; C. M. Henderson & Co.; Hibbard, Spencer & Co.; W. W. Kimball, and hundreds of others. The Palmer House has ae strong and at the same time beautiful and unique safe, made especially for Mr. Palmer, upon plans furnished by the company. But it would be impossible to give a list of all the patrons of this company. Suffice it to say, that where contracts are awarded on the opinions of disinterested experts, the Diebold safe generally gets the preference, for then all the strong points receive, due consideration. The numerous new uses to whnch steel is now being put, as is indicated by the rapidly-increasing demand for this metal, go to prove that we have already crossed the threshold of the " steel age." Stimulated by this augmenting demand on every hand for fine grades of steel for almost innumerable purposes, the enterprising and progressive steel manufacturers of this country have of late years perfected and introduced new and improved productive processes, whereby they are enabled to make a far better quality of steel than they were capable of producing ten, or even five, years ago. So great has been this improvement, ment, that latterly the finest grades of the output of American steel works have received the unqualified indorsement of the most experienced and exacting users of this metal in their industrial operations—those who, a few years since, had really believed it to be impossible for our home manufacturers to make such a quality of this article as would compare favorably with the fine Sheffield and other long-time famous foreign steels. But what is the situation in this regard at present ? The answer is a most gratifying one. To-day our manufacturers of saws, tools, cutlery, and many other products requiring the highest grad of material, are employing exclusively steel of American make, as it proves fully equal to the best foreign product, and, consequently, has almost entirely supplanted the latter in the domestic market. Canton enjoys the credit of having one of the most complete manufactories of steel in the country—the Canton Steel Works—of which Messrs. Bolton, Bulley & Co. are the proprietors. The premises occupied by these works have an area of about two and a half acres, very conveniently situated on the line of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railway, with switch-track connection with both that and the Valley Railway, and will have direct connection with all the railroads now under construction to this city, thus affording them first-class receiving and shipping advantages in every direction. Their buildings comprise an iron-clad rolling-mill, sixty-four by two hundred and seventy feet, with an addition sixteen by one hundred and fifty feet, used as a boiler room. The open-hearth melting-shop is thirty by eighty feet, crucible shop thirty by sixty-five feet, and warehouse thirty-six by eighty-five feet ; open-hearth shop twenty-nine by seventy-one feet, machine-shop, laboratory and other adjuncts admirably adapted for the successful prosecution of this industry. The mo- 336 - HISTORY OF STARK COUNTY. tive power is supplied by four steam engines, with combined capacity of 700 horse. The mechanical equipment is of a superior order, embracing all the modern improved appliances needful for the expedite and economic production of the finest steel. There are two mills, one twenty-inch and the other twelve inch, with a solid foundation composed of 165,000 brick under the twenty-inch mills and engines. Three steam hammers, one and one-half, one-half, and one-fourth tons, are employed, together with many ingenious and expensive tools and devices for the varied processes required in the several stages of manufacture. Among these is a Pratt & Whitney (Hartford) Hollaway's machine for cutting shafting to exactly uniform lengths—a very valuable apparatus. One of the notable conveniences of this model establishment is a system of tramways traversing in all directions the mills and yard, upon which the raw material, product in process of manufacture and finished goods are transported with great facility. The capacity of the melting shops is fourteen tons every twenty-four hours, double turn. There is a well-appointed machine-shop for performing necessary repairs, and in every department a scene of the most intense activity is presented. The reporter took a tour of inspection through the shops, and was impressed with the perfect convenience of arrangement apparent on every hand, and the thorough system established throughout the works—important factors in the successful management of so extensive an industry as is here carried on. The fine laboratory of this concern is under the immediate charge of Mr. R. H. Bulley, one of the firm, who is an expert chemist, and possesses an intimate knowledge of the science of steel working. They have the most approved appliances for making both crucible and open-hearth steel, but are at present producing only the latter, as by this process they are enabled to manufacture a quality of steel which excels the crucible in every particular. Mr. Ogden Bolton, of this firm, has secured letters-patent upon an important improvement in the manufacture of steel by the open-hearth process, the same consisting in first charging the carbon on the bottom of the open hearth, and charging the blooms or soft steel or any part of them on top of the carbonaceous matter previous to fusion, so that the iron may melt on the surface of the carbon and become carburized as it percolates through it. By this process the carbon is packed in boxes or canisters and charged on the bottom of the open hearth, and then the blooms or soft steel thereon. When the mass is melted, after or at the time molten metal is tapped from the furnace, ferro-manganese or spiegeleisen is added. By this new method is attained the production of high grades of steel, suitable for tools, etc., for which the more expensive crucible steel has heretofore been exclusively employed. It is a carburizing, not a decarburizing, process, whereby a grade of steel is produced equal in quality to the best English tool-steel. Messrs. Bolton, Bulley & Co. manufacture the various descriptions of the fine cast-steel, including patent rolled machinery steel, oil and water tempered spring steel, round and square edged tire steel, gun-barrel and set-screw steel, and tool steel, making the latter a specialty, as also patent polished machinery steel of superior quality and finish. All these goods have achieved an enviable reputation wherever they have been used, and are in constantly increasing demand. This firm produce several grades of steel, uniformly tempered for special purposes, designated by colored labels. The " Canton " brand (yellow label) is best suited for the hardware trade, answering for machinists, blacksmiths, etc. The " Canton Soft " (blue label) is adapted for oil-well jars, and tools subject to constant concussions. The " Canton Hard " (dark red label) is only required for taps, dies, reamers, lathe tools, and other work necessitating a strong, hard edge. The " Canton Extra Hard " and " Canton Choice " are designed for specific purposes. Their warehouse is pronounced to have the most convenient and advantageous storage facilities of any similar concern in the country. There is a systematic arrangement and classification of the different grades and brands produced, so that they are enabled to supply orders with perfect accuracy and great dispatch. Here they keep in stock some 150 to 200 tons of well assorted finished product. The present capacity of these works is 3,000 net tons per year, giving occupation to 140 skilled mechanics. Their annual output on present basis of operations reaches $400,000 in value. They have an extensive trade in all sections of the country, especially in the West, selling a large amount of goods in Chicago. Their superior CANTON TOWNSHIP - 337 spring steel is used by four of the largest manufacturers of springs in the West. A warehouse list of their varied product, containing full directions as to ordering any required descriptions of steel, is furnished at request. The Canton Wrought Iron Bridge Company, a large and successful establishment, was originally put in operation about fifteen years ago, and was a partnership concern up to 1871, when it was incorporated under the State laws, with a capital of $106,000. This company have built more highway bridges since they started than any other works in the country. They have erected about 3,300 spans, varying in length from 20 to 301 feet, and in width from 6 to 120 feet, aggregating over 33 miles in length. This work has been erected in twenty-five different States and the Dominion of Canada, and includes nearly all forms of truss, arch, swing and plate bridge and iron piers. The material they use in the construction of bridges is specially manufactured for them under the most rigid specifications, as to tensile strength and quality, and is critically tested on its arrival at the shops. Their bridges are built on scientific principles, approved by long and thorough experience, and the utmost caution is exercised in their erection. In all the work they have executed, there has not been a single case of failure or accident, under protracted usage for road travel or excessively trying tests. Such an exceptional record is certainly worthy of consideration. Their facilities for accurate and reliable work are unequaled by those of any similar establishment, and enable them to complete contracts with great dispatch. The skilled working force of the Canton Wrought Iron Bridge Company average 150 men, and their product last year aggregated $500,000. Officers : D. Hammond, President ; J. Abbott,Vice President and Chief Engineer C. H. Jackson, Treasurer and Secretary. Mr. P. P. Bush, proprietor of the well-known Novelty Iron Works, is a practical machinist of long experience, and was formerly established in business in New Haven, Conn. In 1871, concluding to locate at a point easy of access to the great Western markets, he fixed upon Canton as an advantageous place for the prosecution of his industry, and in that year removed his tools and fixtures to this city, taking the shops formerly occupied by the Canton Malleable Iron Works, where he has ever since transacted a successful business. At these works are constructed in the most faithful and scientific manner, several styles of stationary engines, mill machinery, and architectural iron work, for which the shops have admirable facilities and appliances. In these lines they supply chiefly the local trade, selling largely to the towns and cities in Stark and adjoining counties. Mr. Bush owns the largest stock of patterns in Northern Ohio, and hence his peculiar advantages for executing with dispatch every class of work in the stated departments. He is now putting iron fronts into two new buildings in Canton, and is kept quite busy on first-class contracts, giving employment to an average of thirty-five skilled mechanics. His product in 1879 amounted to $65,000. The foundry has a measurement of 60x160 feet, and the machine shop 60x60 feet. These buildings are situated in close proximity to the railroads, thus affording unsurpassed shipping facilities. The most widely-known of Mr. Bush's manufactures is the " Imperial " job printing press, which possesses some important features of advantage over any other press in the market. Its peculiarities of construction and mechanism are : All the working parts are built upon horizontal steel bars, capable of sustaining a tensile test of fifty tons each, without liability to fracture. The impression is made with a powerful toggle, giving a dead dwell on the impression, while the entire force of the impression is exerted upon these steel bars. No springing of the platen or bed is possible, and a square, uniform impression is insured, the power being applied directly behind the bed, thus obviating all slurring. The tension of the rollers is easily regulated by a single nut on the spring, so that the pressman can adapt the pressure to any sized form. The press runs easily and smoothly, and can be speeded according to the dexterity of the feeder. Its superior simplicity, strength, power, ease and economy of running, and facility of making-ready. are recommendations which every practical job printer will appreciate. A novel feature about this press is that there is not a cam in the entire mechanism ; the first and only jobber ever made on this principle. The device for giving motion to the inking-rollers is also new. All the mo- 338 - HISTORY OF STARK COUNTY. tions are direct, there are no springs, nothing likely to get out of order, and the press is the acme of simplicity. The fraternity will do well to correspond with Mr. Bush regarding this wonderful and most successful invention. The proprietors of the Canton Spring Works, Messrs. D. Cobaugh and H. L. Kuhns, have met with signal success during the past two years in the manufacture of carriage, wagon and seat springs of unsurpassed quality and finish. They succeeded to the spring business of Ballard, Fast & Co., and by dint of incessant perseverance, practical skill and good management, have built up a trade of which they have reason to be proud, and which redounds to the credit of this thriving, industrial city. They employ only the best quality of material, with thoroughly experienced workmen in every department, and every requisite mechanical device to secure the most economical and perfect production of their uniformly excellent goods. The importance of the proper strength and safety of vehicle springs is generally appreciated, and inthis connection we have to say that the Canton Spring Company practically and critically tests every spring before it leaves the shops, thus making sure that no faulty or defective goods are ever placed on the market by them. The Canton springs have attained an extended celebrity, and are in such active demand that it is found difficult to keep up therewith, rendering it necessary to increase the producing capacity of the establishment in order to supply the rapidly growing wants of their patrons, who are located as far West as California east to Baltimore, throughout Ohio, and in all parts of the Northwest and Southwest. Everywhere that these goods have been introduced and put into practical use, there is only one expression in regard to them—that they possess great tensile strength, elasticity and durability, and are equal to the best in regard to quality, style and workmanship. These works employ eighty skilled artisans, and produced last year springs to the amount of 135,000, which at current prices would foot up to about $200,000. In 1879, they used between 1,300 and 1,400 tons of steel, a large portion of which was made in this city, it being of unsurpassed quality for this purpose. The main building has dimensions equivalent to 300 by 40 feet, and there is a switch track running into the yard, affording first- class facilities for re- ceiving materials and shipping product to all parts of the country. In a long time we have not seen a more convenient and useful contrivance than the patent revolving book-case manufactured of different styles and patterns by Mr. John Danner, of this city. During the last five years he has made these cases, and so highly appreciated and popular have they become that a large and finely appointed establishment is required to produce them in suffncient quantities to supply the ever increasing demand from all parts of the continent and even foreign countries. Already over 6,000 of these serviceable and beautiful articles have been sold, and are in constant use by lawyers, clergymen, physicians, business men, public and private libraries, courts, public institutions, reading rooms, literary and musical societies, public offices, etc. These revolving book-cases are far more convenient than the ordinary bookcase, occupy but little space, and hold more books than any other receptacle of equal proportions ever devised. The books on either of the four sides are readily accessible to any one sitting at a table, or before the fire, without moving his chair or rising. These cases revolve on an entirely new principle, whereby a "slight pressure of the hand will bring either side to view. The mechanism is so simple and durable that it is not at all liable to get out of order, while the case is so substantially constructed that it will last a lifetime. These artistically finished cases are made in the most faithful and workmanlike .manner, of the best selected Western ash and black walnut, and are an ornament to any library or parlor. The cases are made of any desired size and style of finish, with wood or marble top.. Mr. Danner exhibited one of his elegant revolving cases at the Paris International Exhibition in 1878. On the top of the case was a large model of an American schoolhouse. The exhibit was made under the auspices of the National Bureau of Education, and nothing in this department was so much admired for its beauty and utility. Its appreciation is shown by the fact that it was honored with the award of a gold medal. For a long period of twenty-one years the reputable firm of H. W. Werts Sr, Co. have been engaged in the manufacture of fine carriages in this city. For this purpose they occupy. two spacious buildings—a neat and substantial brick structure, corner of Seventh and Poplar CANTON TOWNSHIP - 339 streets, of three stories above the basement, with dimensions of forty-five by one hundred and fifteen feet, and the wood department, of two stories, frame, thirty-five by seventy-five feet. These works are fitted up with all the modern conveniences and mechanical devices calculated to facilitate manufacturing operations on an extensive scale. The basement of the main building is used for storing finished work. On the street floor is a tastcfully fitted up business office, leading off from which is a commodious repository, where may be seen on exhibition a fine stock of light carriages of graceful proportions and elegant finish. In the rear part is the smith shop, and on the next floor above is the trimming department and a large storage wareroom. The third story is occupied for painting and finishing purposes. In all their work they use only the most carefully selected materials, consulting especially the requisites to that degree of lightness, which is compatible with proper strength and great durability. With this desirable end in view, they employ steel axles, steel tires, the best stock for wheels, English and French upholstering cloths that will not fade, and never any split leather. All their trimmings are first-class, and the paint and varnish used are the best and most durable the market affords. It is not sufficient for them to turn out goods that look well on the surface ; but the work all through, even to the smallest particular, is performed in the most painstaking manner, with the greatest care that nothing shall enter into the construction of their vehicles which shall prove in service otherwise than the finest and best. By this means Messrs. Werts & Co. have succeeded in establishing a reputation of the highest order, which they are assiduous in permanently maintaining. They give employment to some twenty-five workmen, most of whom are thoroughly experienced in their respective trades, so that while all the material used is of the best quality the workmanship is correspondingly excellent. Their average annual production of fine carriages is about 130, valued at $30,000. The well known concern, the Canton Cutlery Company, is busily at work turning out the fine cutlery for the production of which it is deservedly so widely noted. The line of goods here made embraces a great variety of pocket cutlery of approved styles and the most perfect finish. While so many other establishments have retro graded in the quality of their product and flooded the market with cheap and well-nigh worthless goods, the company under notice have strictly adhered to their original standard quality, using only the best Jessup's steel and employing the most skillful workmen. Hence they can safely warrant all their goods to be of uni- form and superior quality. These works have been in operation since 1872, and are now producing about $35,000 worth of goods annually, employing thirty five hands and three traveling salesmen. One of the prominent and thriving industries of Canton is the manufacture of soap, which business is prosecuted on a large scale by Mr. Joseph Biechele, successor to the firm of C. Biechele & Bro. This establishment was founded by C. Biechele, in 1847, and the business was carried on in a small way until 1858. Meanwhile, the reputation of the fine quality of Biechele's soaps had rapidly spread, and the steadily increasing demand therefor necessitated the enlargement of the works and the improvement of their manufacturing facilities. Consequently, in 1858, a larger factory was erected, modern appliances were introduced, and at the same time the present proprietor became a partner in the concern. The works were successfully operated for about ten years by C. Biechele & Bro., when, in 1868, Joseph bought out the interest of his brother, thus becoming sole proprietor. The constantly growing popularity and sale of his product called for another enlargement of the works, which was accomplished in the year following. New kettles, steam boilers and all other approved convenicnces were adopted, having in view the rapid and economical production of the several famous brands of soap made here. By this means, Mr. Biechele found himself able to successfully compete, in regard to both quality and price, with the largest soap manufacturers of Chicago, Cincinnati, Buffalo, New York and Philadelphia, and his trade expanded steadily over a wide area of territory, both East and West. It has been his undeviating aim and purpose to make the best soap that can be produced by the exercise of constant care, skill and long practical experience, and hence he uses only the best selected materials to be obtained, employs thoroughly trained workmen, and conducts every manufacturing operation under painstaking personal super- 340 - HISTORY OF STARK COUNTY. vision. Herein lies the secret of his marked success. Mr. Biechele is not content with having established a far reaching reputation for the excellence of his goods, and then, as is too often the case, gradually deteriorating the quality, with the vain expectation that former fame will serve in lieu of present merit but, on the contrary, his laudable endeavor is to produce better soap to-day than it was possible for him to make yesterday, and thus to maintain for all time the credit his goods have so honorably achieved. Mr. Biechele is now manufacturing some twenty different brands of laundry soaps, the leading of which are the California, Pure White, White Laundry, Pearl, Best Family and Banner. These well-known brands find ready sale throughout the country, and, indeed, the demand so rapidly increases as to render the present capacity of the works too small to meet it. This being the situation, arrangements are making to enlarge the factory next spring, whereby its producing capacity will be materially increased. The present dimensions of the building are 150 by 52 feet, and it will be enlarged to 175 by 100 feet, two stories high. Biechele's Pure White Soap is strictly pure, and manufactured chiefly from vegetable oils, giving it medicinal properties. It is excellent for both toilet and laundry purposes. His Magic Soap Is highly commended, and will do its work well without the use of a washboard, if directions are followed. The toilet soaps made at this establishment are noted for their fine quality and delicate perfume. Among these are the Palm, Domestic White and Mottled Castile, Magnolia, White Lily, Turkish Bath, Glycerine, etc. Four traveling agents are constantly employed in selling Biechele's soaps, which have become the favorite of every good housekeeper over a vast area of territory. Canton boasts, also, of two woolen mills, which, though not so pretentious as some of the larger mills in the East, do a domestic business quite as important for people in this part of the country. The Canton City Woolen Factory of L. Alexander & Son is one of these. They manufacture cassimeres, satinets, cloths, jeans, flannels, blankets, stocking yarn and all kinds of woolen goods. They use a thirty horsepower engine in propelling their machinery ten hands are regularly employed at a weekly expense of $100. Their trade, already large, is constantly on the increase, and is derived mainly from Stark and the adjoining counties. The other is the Eagle Woolen Mill of Robbins Brothers, which furnishes employment to some twenty persons, whose aggregate wages is about $300 per month. This firm works two sets of machinery, and use the self-acting spinning mules. They manufacture goods about like the other mill, and, besides a large home trade, they find good sale for their goods in the West, to which part of the country they ship a good many of them. There are also two box factories here in active operation. The one run by Mr. J. C. Lantz, with a force of twelve workmen. They manu facture wooden boxes, largely for the Biechele Soap Works, bee-hives and faucets. This establishment is in a flourishing condition. The other establishment, of Mr. Charles E. Wrigley, manufactures paper boxes exclusively, in making which they are now consuming about a ton of paper a week. He employs seven hands. He makes all the packing boxes for the malleable iron works in Canton, and one thousand every week ft* a druggist firm in Louisville, Ohio. The malleable iron works just referred to 'is a new concern, but recently located in Canton. These works are under the firm of Ebel, Gilliom & Co., and do an extensive business. They already employ, though in operation here only a few months, over one hundred and fifty hands, and are continually increasing their force. When they get into full operation. they will employ two hundred and fifty. They are at present paying their hands about $1,500 a week. This establishment manufactures all kinds of saddlery hardware, which they sell immediately to wholesale jobbers. Among Canton industries, prominent and well established, is the paper mill of Bachert. Silk & Co. This mill has been in existence for about a quarter of a century, and has been under its present management for seventeen years past. The original structure, which was a two-story brick building, 33x100 feet, has been enlarged, until now it covers an area of 150 feet square, and contains two stories and a basement. They manufacture every kind of manila, wrapping, tea and tissue paper. The capacity of the works is about three tons per day. They employ thirty-five hands, with a monthly pay roll of $1,200 per month. Their paper goes to the Cleveland Paper Company at Cleveland and CANTON TOWNSHIP - 341 Chicago. This firm stands among the most reliable in Canton, and is doing a very satisfact- ory and successful business. There are many other branches of business carried on in Canton, which, though apparently small when viewed in detail, do a great part toward promoting the success of Canton,s industries. As a sample we may here remark, that not less than fifty hands are employed in making cigars by the different manufacturers in the city. So too, it is in many other branches of trade. From the above exhibit of the multiplicity and varied character of the manufacturing interests in this city, growing up and strengthening themselves under many adverse prospects in the past, there now appears glorious promise for rapid growth and increase in future, inasmuch as Canton, naturally so well situated for building up and fostering manufacturing interests, will soon be in commercial communication with all parts of the country by means of the several railroads about centering in this city. But the business importance of Canton, even at this time, is not to be seen alone in her varied manufacturing interests. Her wholesale and retail establishments, in every line of trade, are worthy also of consideration. Our space will not permit us to notice them all in detail, and we will, therefore, be compelled to notice only a few of the older establishments in different branches of business. There are several wholesale houses doing each of them an extensive trade. Prominent among them is the wholesale grocery house of B. Dannemiller & Sons. There are few houses in any large metropolis which for extent, convenience and fullness of stock are superior to that of this enterprising firm, as the following sketch will set forth : This business was originally founded by Kimball Brothers ; and, in 1869, the present firm succeeded them, at 36 South Market street, and subsequently removed to the corner of Market and Tuscarawas streets. Their trade steadily increased in volume, until it was found necessary to secure more commodious quarters. Accordingly, last year the firm erected the present elegant and spacious brick building on Market and Fifth streets, very eligibly located, having a frontage of 30 feet on Market street, 140 feet on Fifth street, and a wing 50 feet deep in the rear. There are four floors in one department and five in the other, fitted up with every convenience for the storage and handling of the immense stock of goods here carried. One of Crane Brothers' (Chicago) improved elevators, with a capacity of 3,000 pounds, 6x7 feet in size, runs from the basement to the top floor, rendering each department equally accessible. Having windows on three sides, ample light is admitted to all the rooms, so that not a single gas jet is needed until some time after sunset. There are entrances on both streets into the fine, large office and sample room, measuring 28x30 feet, tastefully fitted up, and lighted by six French plate-glass windows. The stock comprises a full line of general groceries, wooden ware, brooms, cigars, tobaccos, teas, coffees, canned goods, sugars, sirups, oils, soaps, fish, candies, crackers, and everything else usually carried in an establishment of this character. W. A. McCrea,s wholesale house of small wares, the only one of the kind between Pittsburgh and Chicago, does, perhaps, the next business to Dannemillers, in Canton.  establishment is in the Herbruck and Kaufman block on East Tuscarawas street. Mr. McCrea’s trade principally in Ohio and Pennsylvania, and five traveling salesmen are regularly employed by him. He carries a stock of about $35,000 and his annual sales aggregate $120,000, with a healthy increase from year to year. Besides these wholesale establishments, there are three wholesale liquor stores in Canton, all doing a good business, viz. : the stores of L. J. Miday & Co., in their own handsome three-story brick building erected last year on North Market street, with annual sales.amounting to $65,000 ; of Schalm Brothers, on north side of East Tuscarawas street, with annual sales amounting to $75,000 and of Mr. S. Bear, who opened his store in the Wernet Building, south side of East Tuscarawas street, and is also doing a thriving business. The retail business in dry goods, groceries, clothing, drugs, furniture, boots and shoes, etc., is also fully represented in the city. Among the many only a few can be noticed briefly here : As far back as the year 1815, Mr. Jacob Rex started a tailor shop in the present Rex Building, corner of Tuscarawas and Rex streets. Mr. John P. Rex learned the trade with his father, and in 1840 succeeded him in the business, which has been continued on the old site ever since. The boot and shoe firm of J. C. Bockius' Sons is one of the oldest established houses of the kind in Ohio, perhaps the 342 - HISTORY OF STARK COUNTY. very oldest. Mr. J. C. Bockius, the father of the present proprietors, opened a shoe shop on the 5th of May. 1820, in an old frame building which stood on the site of the court house. This building was removed, with the shop, in 1822, to the site of the Bockius property on South Market street. In 1836, it was moved one lot north, and in 1845 back again, where the brick building now stands. In 1836, the first stock of Eastern machine-made boots and shoes were brought to Canton by Mr. Bockius, and these goods were then quite a novelty. Previous to that time, men would go to the tannery, buy their own leather and then have shoes made for the whole family by the shoemaker. Shoemakers were then scarce, and as all the work was done by hand. it was necessarily slow ; sometimes there would so many orders on the books that families would have to wait as long as four or five months for their shoes. To avoid such delay, many persons were accustomed to order a supply some months before they were actually needed. The introduction of shoes from the East already made, therefore, wrought quite a revolution in the business. In 1851, Mr. Bockius bought the ground upon which the store is now located, on the east side of the public square and erected the three-story brick building in which it is. In October, 1848, Mr. L. V. Bockius, and in 1870. Mr. Ed. Bockius became members of the firm, and after their father's death only a few years since, they continued the business. Mr. E. Bockius, death, this spring, left the elder brother, L. V. Bockius, as sole surviving partner. Three persons are given constant employment on custom work, and four are employed as clerks in the store. The stock carried along varies from $8,000 to $10,000, and about $25,000 worth of goods are sold annually. In the dry goods line, John Schilling, identified with the business in Canton since 1846 ; Zollars & Co., of which firm Mr. Zollars has been engaged in this line of trade for some thirty years and more, and A. Herbruck, for twenty years associated with Mr. Schilling, and since 1874 doing business in his own name, deserve honorable mention. Zollar,s store was for many years before 1846, and afterward on its present site, conducted by Mr. Isaac Harter, deceased, a man of great business capacity, administrative ability and the strictest integrity. Mr. Zollars, a young man of limited means, entered his store in 1846 ; in the year 1852, he was taken into the business as a partner ; Mr. Harter sold out his interest to Samuel Bard in 1862. who only remained eighteen months in the new firm, when Mr. Zollars succeeded to the entire business. In 1865, Mr. Peter Barlet was taken in as a partner, and he has been in the firm ever since. Mr. Harter, soon after retiring from the dry goods business, went into the banking business, and was the founder of one of the safest and best conducted banking institutions in the State of Ohio. Strict integrity and honorable dealing made Mr. Harter's name respected and his bank a trusted one far and wide. To his credit be it said, no trust reposed in him Was ever betrayed. His sons, since his death, have continued the banking business upon the same substantial basis, as that upon which their honored father built up an established business and a fair fortune. Zollars & Co's. store employs seven clerks, and they do an immense business, which is yearly increasing. Besides dealing in dry goods and carpets, in which his sales amount to $30,000 annually, Mr. A. Herbruck also engages in wholesaling timothy and clover seed, of which he handles about $30,000 worth every year. Mr. Schilling t arries a full line of dry goods, is widely and favorably known all over Stark County and is doing a thriving business. He is a safe business man, and from an humble clerk in V. R. Kimball's thirty-five years ago, he has gone gradually onward and upward, until now he ranks among the best and most successful business men of the city. The jewelry establishment of Mr. Joseph A. Meyer's is one of the oldest business houses now remaining in Canton. Mr. Meyer himself is of old pioneer stock, and is highly respected by all who know hnm socnally or nn busnness. His establnshment was originally started in 1837, by Mr. Samuel C. Fry, who sold out to Mr. Meyer in 1858. He carries a full assortment of watches, clocks, solid and plated ware, spectacles and jewelry of all kinds. Mr. M. Ruhman, still doing business in the Harter Block, is the pioneer merchant in ready-made clothing. He commenced his business in Canton, nearly on his present site, in the year 1851, and in his thirty years' residence in Canton has built up a character for honesty and fair dealing among a wide circle of friends and customers. These are brief sketches only of some of the establishments which started business in Canton CANTON TOWNSHIP - 343 when it was yet a village, and before it began to put on the habiliments and airs of a city. With the development of the rich resources of the surrounding country, and the growth of the town, business has multiplied an hundred-fold, and Canton,s trade in every branch of mercantile business has kept pace with the demands of the times. There is probably not a city of the same size in the West, whose business is in every respect upon so sound and firm a basis ; and when, in panicky times, business houses all over the land have been going by the board by the thousands, scarcely a ripple of the wave of destruction has been felt among the business firms of Canton. As the manufacturing and mercantile interests have become so varied and so extensive, exchange and banking facilities were naturally demanded by the business interests of the growing town. Notice has already been taken of the first bank in primitive times. This was resuscitated in after years, and served the public necessity for a long period.. Incidentally also the starting of the First National Bank and of Mr. Isaac Harter’s Savings Deposit Bank has been mentioned. For many years the Stark County Bank of Mr. James A. Saxton did a good work in meeting the needs of the public, with these other banks. In later years, Mr. George D. Harter started his bank on Tuscarawas street, east of the public square, which from the first received the confidence of the people. The Farmers' Bank was started a few years ago, and is also upon a substantial foundation, and doing a good business. A year or two since, the City Bank of Canton, which had done business a little while, and then dissolved by the mutual agreement of the stockholders, was again started up under a new management, as the City National Bank, with Dr. P. H. Barr, the popular druggist in the old and well-established drug store of Dr. C. J. Geiger, deceased, as President, and Henry C. Ellison, a former Auditor of Stark County, as Cashier. Thus Canton is supplied with five banks at this time, all in good condition, and doing an extensive business. From 1852 until within the past two or three years, the only shipping facilities enjoyed by the merchants and manufacturers of this city were furnished by the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne Chicago Railroad, which were for the most part not as liberal to her interests, nor, as one would think, to the interests of the company itself, as the good of a growing city, with well-established and successfully conducted business, and in the midst of resources which gave promise of much grander development and increased importance, seemed to demand. Competition is said to be the life of trade, and probably railroads, as well as other branches of business, are all the better for a little healthy competition. But the dawn of a better day in this regard also, is breaking upon the business interests of Canton. She already enjoys the advantages of cheap coal and cheap living, and the chief remaining factor to secure increased success to her industries, in the way of cheap transportation, is rapidly being provided. Already the effect of the opening of the Valley Railroad to Akron and Cleveland, in the beginning of the year 1880, is favorably felt. This road had been projected several years before, and was pushed chiefly by capitalists of Cleveland ; but the citizens of Akron and Canton did not fail to appreciate the benefit which would accrue to themselves in its construction, and they, in company with the people of other smaller towns along the line of the road, gave a helping hand, until at last it was, after the usual delays, trials and tribulations, an accomplished fact. Since its operation, it has been dong good business, much better, indeed, than most new roads at so early a period in their history. What it needs now to insure its greater benefit to both stockholders and the people on the line of the road is an extension southward from Canton to bring it into connection with the coal and iron of the southern portion of the State. This undoubtedly will soon also be accomplished. So far as Canton is concerned, the Valley road has already brought the business transportation of the city away from the monopoly of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad Company, and this last named corporation now gives better terms to shippers than ever before. The Valley Railroad has located the main passenger and freight depots near the crossing of the Fort Wayne road, in the southwestern part of the city, but recently, for the convenience of passengers, a neat and commodious passenger depot has been fitted up on West Tuscarawas street, which makes it more convenient for passengers from the hotels and the greater part of town than the main depot. The Connotton Valley Rail- 344 - HISTORY OF STARK COUNTY. way Company continued its road last year to Canton, and it has been completed this year already to Kent, and before the end of the season will probably be in full running order to Cleveland. But the railroad history is more fully given in another chapter of this work. A late writer says of the people's social life : The citizens of Canton are not given to display. They are a quiet, order loving people. None of them have a boastful spirit. It might be well for the town if some of its people were given to " blowing their own horn." But they do not seem to be so inclined. Hence we feel assured that the subjoined statistics of industrial enterprise here, for the year 1879 are within Drover limits :