The earliest attempt
at manufacturing in Erie was made in 1795-96, when Capt. Russell Bissell
erected a saw-mill near the mouth of Mill Creek, which gave rise to the
name of that stream. The dam was built just east of Parade street, and
nearly opposite Fourth. This mill was used by the garrison in getting out
building material for barracks, swellings, etc., and stood until 1820,
when it was burned down. In 1831, George W. Reed and William Himrod built
another saw-mill on the old site, the frame of which was standing for more
than thirty years after its erection.
The second saw-mill erected in the immediate vicinity of Erie, was built
by John Cochran in 1800, on the site of the Densmore Mill, which is just
across the southern boundary line of the city. The following year, he
added a grist mill, both being constructed of logs; but in the year 1816,
John Teel replaced them by a frame, which was subsequently operated by
John Gray and son James, Jonathan Baird and John McClure. In May, 1836,
upon the death of John Cochran, it fell into the hands of his son Robert,
and about 1845 was sold to Gen. C. M. Reed, who soon conveyed it to George
A. Eliot. In 1850, Mr. Eliot gave the control of it to his son John, who
in March, 1871, sold it to Henry Shottwell; thence it passed into the
possession of William Densmore, by whom it is now operated.
In 1806, Robert Brotherton built a saw mill at or near the site of the
Hopedale Mill, in South Erie. The farm and mill was purchased by John
Gingrich, and the latter was discontinued when timber became scarce in the
neighborhood. An oil mill was subsequently erected there by C. Siegel.
Upon his father's death, Henry Gingrich inherited the property, and about
1850, built a flouring mill, which he called "Hopedale." This
mill was operated for some years by Oliver & Bacon, who left it in
1865, having secured the canal mills, and it was then taken by its owner
Henry Gingrich.
During the years 1807-8, another saw mill was erected on Mill Creek at its
intersection with Eighth street, by Thomas Forster and William Wallace,
who got control of the water power from Twelfth to Parade streets. About
1810, R. S. Reed purchased the property and built a grist mill below, and
in 1822, George Moore bought these mills and added thereto a carding and
fulling mill. Some time during the winter of 1834-35, the mills were
purchased by E. D. Gunnison, who became associated in business with
Abraham Johnson, and they built and named the Fairmount Flouring Mill.
Gunnison sold his interest to John H. Walker, who converted the carding
and fulling mill into a plaster mill, and built a large tannery opposite
and a number of dwellings for the workmen. Jehiel Towner was miller here
for many years. The tannery burned down and the mill fell into the hands
of Liddell, Kepler & Co. In the spring of 1859, it was bought by P.
& O. E. Crouch, and is now owned and operated by J. B. Crouch &
Co.
Rufus S. Reed built a grist mill on Mill Creek in 1815. It was located on
Parade street between Fourth and Fifth, and the dam crossed the stream
just below Sixth street. He afterward added a distillery, both of which
were carried on by him until his death, the mill standing until ten or
twelve years ago.
The same year (1815), Robert Large erected a grist mill near the corner of
Eleventh and French streets, with the dam above Twelfth. It did not,
however, prove successful, and in 1822 was sold to Alvah Flint, who
converted it into a cloth, carding and fulling mill. This was kept up
until 1840, when the site and water power were purchased by Vincent,
Himrod & Co., who erected thereon a foundry subsequently known as the
Erie City Iron Works, one of the pioneer iron establishments of this
portion of the State.
The pioneer tannery of Erie was erected by Ezekiel Dunning, on Holland
street, between Fifth and Sixth, about the beginning of the present
century. It was long known as Sterrett's tannery, and kept in operation
until 1852. The next tannery in the order of time was established in 1805,
by Samuel and Robert Hays, on the corner of Ninth and French streets. The
latter sold his interest to Samuel, and he in turn was succeeded by his
sons W. B. and J. W. Hays, who carried on a tannery in Erie for many
years. William Arbuckle, who learned the trade with Samuel Hays, started a
tannery in 1820, on Eighth street, west of Myrtle, which he ran until
1830, when it ceased operations.
The first beer brewery in the city was built in 1815, by Maj. David
McNair, on Turnpike street, near where the Erie City Mill was afterward
erected. He added a distillery in 1823, and in 1827 built a grist mill on
State street, south of the Lake Shore Railroad, the motive power for all
being furnished by the water of Ichabod Run.
In 1803, the first brickyard in the county was opened by Isaac Austin and
B. Rice, and was located east of Parade, between Second and Third streets.
From brick made in this yard, James Baird erected the first brick house in
Erie County. It stood on German, between Front and Second streets, was two
stories in height, and occupied for many years by Thomas Wilson. It was
used as a hospital in 1813, for the wounded prisoners captured at the
battle of Lake Erie, and was burned down in 1827.
The following men were the pioneers of Erie in their respective trades, to
wit: Jonas Duncan and John Teel, carpenters; Peter Growotz, mason and
bricklayer; Robert Kendall, cooper; John Morris, hatter, Thomas Stewart
and Archibald McSparren, tailors; while the first hop-yard planted in the
county was west of Peach street, between Buffalo and Simpson. There was no
regular copper or brass smith until 1822, when Charles Lay opened a chop
on the south side of East Park. He subsequently went East and became a
locomotive engineer.
Two other mills deserve mention among the earlier ones of the city, viz.,
the Canal, and Erie City Mills. The first was erected by William Kelley,
near the corner of Sixth and Myrtle streets, and was constructed under the
direction of Jehiel Towner, a pioneer miller of Erie. Its motive power was
supplied from the surplus water in the canal, but in 1865 Oliver &
Bacon became proprietors and converted it into a steam mill. The Erie City
Mill was commenced in 1849, by Clark McSparren and John R. Dumars, on the
site of the State street railroad bridge,\; but McSparren soon purchased
Dumars' interest. The farmers did not like to go above the railroad, and
consequently the mill never did much business. The building stood in the
way of the railroad then under construction, and after long negotiation it
was bought by the company and removed south on State street, where it is
still standing.
It is not our intention in this article to mention many of the smaller
factories that have come and gone during the past three-quarters of a
century, as such matter would be of little or no historical value, but
only to give those best remembered as having done most toward building up
the present manufacturing interests of the city. Having glanced over the
leading pioneer mills and factories, we will continue the subject with
brief sketches of the leading manufacturing establishments of to-day. The
material contained in these sketches was obtained directly from the
proprietors of the respective manufactories, upon whom we had to depend
for the correctness of the matter which we here present to our readers.
Our first attention will be given to an account of the Erie Car Works,
limited, on Cascade and Sixteenth streets, as the first indications of
substantial industry that meet the eye of the traveler on his approach to
Erie from the west are the works of this company. One is impressed with
the magnitude of the plant, which embraces about thirteen acres of ground,
the structures which cover it from one end to the other, and the army of
workmen engaged in the various departments of the works. On a closer view,
he will find a complete system of arrangement and an attention to details
hardly to be looked for where the work is of such volume, and the number
of operatives so great. The works were established in the year 1868, and
have been a powerful illustration of the fact of Erie's admirable location
for manufacturing purposes, as well as a monument to the enterprise and
executive ability of the founders and present managers. At the time, they
have a capacity of sixteen freight cars per day, and give employment to
about 600 men. This statement, to those familiar with car building, will
be at once appreciated, but to those unfamiliar with it we will simply say
that it involves the using annually of 170 tons of brass, 250 tons of
malleable iron, 380 tons of steel springs, 150 tons of paint, 500 tons of
tin and solder, 3,250 tons of axles, 5,000 tons of iron castings, 6,000
tons of wrought iron, 11,000 tons of car wheels, and 20,000 tons of
lumber, or 5,000 car loads of material of ten tons each. In the
distribution of this work the company has erected seventeen substantial
buildings, several of them of large dimensions. The machinery is driven by
an engine of 200 horsepower, and a locomotive owned by the company is
always engaged in hauling the materials used, or drawing the finished cars
out to the main tracks over the sidings which traverse the works in all
directions. The class of cars built are box, gondola, ore, drift (or mine
cars), coal and stock cars. The very best of materials are used, and every
particle of the iron in the wheels and axles is tested, and if not found
of the requisite strength is rejected. The value of this great industry
cannot be overestimated, while the reputation of the city is materially
enhanced by the extent of its operations. The officers of the works are:
President, W. R. Davenport; Treasurer, William A. Galbraith. The former is
a gentleman of wide experience in this line of production, and of great
enterprise and public spirit. The latter, in addition to his connection
with this establishment, is a gentleman of wide reputation as a lawyer,
and is at present the Presiding Judge of the Sixth Judicial District of
Pennsylvania. They represent in business and social life the best elements
of our civilization, while their contribution to the city's industry is
one of marked value and importance.
The Erie City Iron Works are, doubtless, next in importance. The
rapid advancement in the manufacturing arts which so strongly
characterizes our American industries is a subject of interesting study.
In almost every department of mechanics do our people excel, and the
products of American looms and workshops stand unrivaled in the markets of
the world. This statement is particularly true of heavy machinery,
engines, etc., and the products of American genius are noted for their
strength and adaptability to the work required of them. The city of Erie
has achieved almost a world-wide reputation as the producer of much of the
finest and best machinery in this line, and is justly entitled to rank
among the important manufacturing towns of the United States. The founding
here of the largest and most important establishment of its kind in the
country is a just tribute to Erie's claim to superior advantages of
location, which appeals strongly to the consideration of the manufacturer
seeking a location, or to the purchaser seeking his supplies. The cost of
iron and coal, the splendid shipping facilities, and many other
attractions combine to emphasize the statement that if her advantages are
fostered, this city's present importance as a manufacturing center, is but
a faint premise of what her future will become. We invite the attention of
our readers to a brief sketch of the Erie City Iron Works, which is one of
the most important enterprises located here, and the best evidence we can
give of the claims we have made. These works were established in 1840, by
Vincent, Himrod & Co., on what would now be considered a very small
scale, and did a general foundry and machine shop business. Several
changes have taken place in the title, the present firm of Selden, Bliss
& Co. becoming sole proprietors in 1864, and it is under their
management that the Erie City Iron Works have grown to such wonderful
proportions. The location of the original works was at the corner of
Twelfth and State streets, and the foundry, 86x240 feet, on the corner of
Twelfth and French streets, is still a portion of the works. The
increasing business of the firm demanding greater facilities, in 1880 they
purchased a tract of five acres of land adjacent to the L. S. & M. S.
R. R., in the eastern suburbs of the city, where they have erected several
of the most important buildings connected with the works, among them being
a boiler shop 100x600 feet in dimensions, with an L 30x50 feet for engine
room, and another L 40x50 feet for office, besides a frame flanging shop
40x180 feet in dimensions, and a machine shop 80x120 feet. These
buildings, except one, are substantial brick structures, admirably adapted
to the business. The works are supplied throughout with the latest and
most improved machinery, much of it being specially constructed for their
particular business, and required for its operation three engines, which
combined aggregate 140-horse power and employment is furnished for 350 men
constantly, with weekly pay roll averaging $3,000. The range of work
includes horizontal and upright flue and tubular boilers; stationary,
portable and agricultural engines; saw mills and mill machinery; steam
riveting machinery, etc. The number of boilers built in 1880 was 857;
engines, 400; saw mills complete, 48. The business of 1881 shows the
following gratifying increase: Number of boilers made and sold, 1,097;
engines, 457; saw mills complete, 96; besides other work of a
miscellaneous character. The sales in 1882, amounted to $785,098.00. The
Erie City Iron Works have depots for the sale of their products in all the
important business centers of the country, and their work is sold in every
State and Territory of the United States, and in the West Indies, Mexico
and South America, and ranks second to none made in the world. They claim
that they make more boilers than any other establishment in the United
States. The individual members of the firm are George Selden, President;
John H. Bliss, Secretary, and George D. Selden, Treasurer. Of their energy
and enterprise, the Erie City Iron Works are a lasting monument of which
themselves and the city of Erie may well be proud.
The firm of Black & Germer is the lineal successor of the
pioneer stove foundry of Erie. In July, 1834, Ebenezer A. Lester, Pardon
and James Sennett, Thomas G. Able and Allen Hinckly established a small
foundry on the northwest corner of Eleventh and State streets, under the
title of Hinckly, Sennett & Co. The motive power was furnished by two
horses hitched to sweeps upon an upright shaft propelling the machinery
for blowing the cupola. Prior to 1835, William H. Johnson bought out the
interests of Hinckly & Able, and the firm became Johnson, Sennett
& Co. In 1838, Pardon Sennett sold his interest to Johnson, but the
title of the firm remained the same until 1841, when Johnson disposed of
his interest back to Pardon Sennett, the firm then becoming Lester,
Sennett & Co. Many changes followed in the ownership and title of the
firm, which we will briefly name. Soon after the above change occurred,
James S. Sennett sold to his partners, and the firm became Lester &
Sennett; in 1843, Lester, Sennett & Chester; in March, 1851, Sennett
& Co.; in March, 1855, Sennett, Barr & Co., and afterward, Barr
& Johnson; in March, 1862, Barr, Johnson & Co. William T. Black
obtained an interest in Marcy, 1867, but the title of Barr, Johnson &
Co. remained until March, 1872, when M. R. Barr, having previously
purchased the interest of George B. Sennett, sold out to his partners,
Grove H. Johnson and William T. Black, who associated with them Otto
Germer, and organized the firm of Johnson, Black & Co. In 1878,
Johnson sold to Germer, and the title became and has since remained Black
& Germer. The first castings in this foundry were made direct from the
ore, and the stoves were peddled through the country. The business has
grown from insignificant dimensions, until to-day they claim to be the
largest institution of the kind in this part of the State. The old works
on the corner of Eleventh and State streets will soon be abandoned for the
large new works recently erected on the corner of Sixteenth and German,
which cover a piece of ground 240x360 feet. The new buildings are the
following dimensions: Foundry, 154x175; pattern shop, 35x70, four stories
high; mounting shop, 54,212, five stories high, and basement; engine and
boiler house, 36x38 feet, furnished with a 100-horse-power engine, besides
the usual number of outside buildings surrounding such establishments.
These works are supplied throughout with new, first-class machinery, while
a switch from the Pennsylvania Railroad affords the best of shipping
facilities. The firm now (October, 1883) employs at the old shops 150 men,
but the new works have a capacity of 250. It is the only establishment in
the United States that make the manufacture of parlor base-burners a
specialty, and claims to be the pioneer of the trade in that line, having
started in 1866 with the "Morning Glory."
The Chicago & Erie Stove Company, limited, west Twelfth street,
was established in the year 1840, by Johnson, Himrod & Co. The title
was several times changed, until in 1876 it became a stock company with W.
H. Whitehead, of Chicago, as chairman, and C. C. Shirk, Secretary and
Treasurer. The plant of the works covers two and one-half acres of the
best and most eligibly located property for the purpose within the city
limits, and is improved with substantial buildings of the following
proportions: Moulding room, 85x240 feet; mounting shop, 85x150 feet; store
room, 80x160 feet; engine and boiler room, 20x40 feet; besides warehouses,
pattern houses and offices. The works necessitate the use of two cupolas
of eleven and forty tons capacity respectively, an engine of 60 to
75-horse-power, and the employment of 140 men skilled in the different
departments of stove manufacture. The trade of the house, which runs up
into the hundreds of thousands of dollars, besides being largely local
extends all over the Western country. The Chicago depot for the sale and
distribution of all western business, is located at 171 Lake street, that
city, and is an establishment of large proportions, employing five
travelers to represent its interests. At this point but two men are
engaged in capacity, yet the business annually offered the company is
largely in excess of its ability to supply, even with its exceptionally
fine facilities. The company has an excellent reputation as the producers
of fine work, both as regards fine castings, handsome finishing, mounting
and the great variety of their manufacture. Stoves for heating and cooking
purposes, ranges, furnaces, etc., in many designs and sizes are
manufactured, and are made with special reference to the science of
combustion and economy of fuel. Though making various styles and patterns,
the "helper" cooking stoves and ranges, and the invincible base
burner, are their leading stoves, and enjoy a high reputation. Taken in
its entirety, as the disburser of large sums in wages and in the
ramifications of its business, giving the city a wide celebrity, it is one
of the notable industries of the place, and contributes largely to the
substantial welfare of the community. Mr. Charles C. Shirk, the Secretary
and Treasurer of the company, is the controlling head of the manufacturing
department of the business, and is a gentleman of wide experience and
sterling business qualities.
Another important manufacturing industry is the Jarecki Manufacturing
Company, limited, corner Ninth and Holland streets. Any person
familiar with the city of Erie twenty years ago will remember the small
lathes of rude construction, and the small furnace for smelting brass,
which at that time represented the capital and equipment of the Jarecki
Manufacturing Company. The present works are a transformation, wonderful
as great, and almost magical. No lucky combination of circumstances,
however, has brought about this change. It has been secured by the most
indomitable will, careful attention, a masterly knowledge of the minutest
details, the careful accounting in every department, and a superior class
of work. Formerly engine-makers, plumbers, steam fitters, and that class
of artisans were compelled to make their own valves, pipe connections,
etc. which made their work one of much detail, and the absence of
machinery especially adapted for it made it tedious and laborious. When
this condition of things was recognized and the positive assurance secured
that with the advance of our industries all over the land, the manufacture
of this class of materials could be made a separate industry, it was then
that the Jarecki Manufacturing Company started on the career which has
placed them in the very front rank of America's manufacturers. Go where
you will over our land, and among the very best appliances of the nature
alluded to will be found those made in the shops of this company. So large
has the business grown that to-day two acres of ground are in use, all
built upon in a handsome and substantial manner. The main building, three
stories and basement, is 330 feet long by 60 feet in width, utilized from
cellar to roof. The galvanizing shop is 70x40 feet; the malleable iron
foundry is 80x150 feet; the gray iron foundry 60x100 feet; the annealing
room 50x80 feet; the core shop 50x160 feet, and the cutter room 40x100
feet. The entire premises, as an architectural adornment, is one of the
best in the city, and is a monument to the character of its founders. The
principal specialties of the works are malleable iron fittings, oil well
supplies, brass work for engine builders, plumbers and steam and gas
fitters, which comprehends a vast variety of articles of various styles
and sizes. The firm in all the departments of their works gives employment
to 400 men, an army of artisans, who when busy in their various
departments present one of the most interesting scenes of activity to be
met with. Their work finds its market in the oil fields of this State, all
over the country -- East, West, North and South -- and across the lakes
into Canada, where the reputation made at home is emphasized by foreign
use. Messrs. Henry and Charles Jarecki came to this country about
thirty-five years ago, since which time they have made their name famous
in this land, and have contributed to the industries of America an
establishment second to none in the fine character of its products.
The Stearns Manufacturing Company, on Tenth street, between Holland
and German, familiarly known as the "Presque Isle Iron Works,"
was established in the year 1866, but was not marked by any particular
degree of prominence until some years later, when, under patents of Mr. E.
H. Stearns, the company secured several valuable points applying to their
machinery, the adoption of which has given it a national reputation. The
plant of the works covers an area of two and one-half acres of ground, all
utilized by them, and improved with the different buildings necessitated
by their work. Partially quoted, they are as follows: Foundry, 60x100
feet; boiler ship, 50x150 feet; four machine shops, each 50x100 feet;
millwright shop, 40x100 feet; blacksmith shop, 35x80 feet, besides others
devoted to the general uses of the company. Employment is given to 325
men, and a vast amount of work turned out which reaches every State and
Territory in the Union, and probably every section of manufacturing
industry. This consists of engines and boilers of all lines and grades,
and saw-mill machinery, the extent of which, in its great variety, would
require too much space for particular enumeration by us. But, as a simple
matter of justice, we should mention their improved circular saw mills,
gang and muley mills, patent rossers, for removing bark and grit before
the saw, off-setting and anti-vibrating carriage wheels and track, head
blocks, etc., for saw mills, log turners, gang edgers, jackers, lath
mills, etc. These productions, which are known in every lumber camp and
saw mill in the United States, have maintained their excellence of
construction during the entire period of their manufacture, and whether
the works are crowded with orders, or to the contrary, the same
carefulness of details, harmony of arrangement and uniformity of
construction, is observable. To the combination of these three essentials
of successful manufacture, the valuable patents owned by them, and the
marked ability of its management, do they owe their present position. The
officers of the Stearns Manufacturing Company are: George Burnham,
President; William M. Davids, Vice President; William Burnham, Secretary,
and H. R. Barnhurst, Treasurer and General Manager.
The Erie Malleable Iron Company, limited, corner Cherry and
Thirteenth, streets, is the most complete and extensive of its kind in
this section of the country, and in the thrift and substantial well-being
of the community is an important and valued factor. Established in 1880,
its success was pronounced from the start, and during the period of its
operation it has considerably augmented its business, and added to its
reputation. The works are located on a plant of two acres of ground,
improved with substantial buildings devoted to the various purposes of
their manufacture, and of the following dimensions: Foundry, 80x300 feet;
annealing room, 45x95 feet; pattern vault, 45x34 feet; machine shop, 35x64
feet; galvanizing room, 25x110 feet; core room, 34x34 feet; engine and
boiler house, 30x60 feet; pattern room and offices, 60x100 feet, besides
outside shedding for storage of coal, sand, etc., 200 feet in length. The
steam power is furnished by an engine of 80-horse-power, and the works
give employment to from 175 to 200 men. The particularly advantageous
location of these works in a center of manufacture which gives them a
large local trade, and the existence of a demand which they are eminently
prepared to supply, have given an impetus to their work which keeps them
running up to their full capacity, and makes the annual output large. The
specialty of the works, as its title implies, is principally malleable
iron castings, but now contemplate making steel castings, and the fact
that the trade extends to a large section of the country, sufficiently
guarantees the quality of all the product of the establishment. The
officers are John Clemens, Chairman, and J. P. Metcalf, Secretary and
Treasurer, whose careful and business-like management of the details of
the business has placed it in the front rank of Erie's industries.
The Bay State Iron Works, corner Third and Peach streets, were
established in the year 1865, and occupy a fine property in one of the
best portions of the city. The plant covers over an acre of ground, and is
improved with substantial buildings, erected solely for the purpose used.
They consist of a main building of brick two stories in height, in which
is the machine shop, 50x225 feet; foundry, 50x125 feet; boiler shop,
60x190 feet; pattern rooms, storage room for iron, engine and boiler room
and offices. Every appliance for the rapid production and complete finish
of all their products is in use, and the entire machinery is driven by two
engines of 40-horse-power each. The mechanical force of the works amounts
to 125 men, most of whom are skilled in the production of fine machinery.
The work of the firm comprehends all classes of fine engine building,
upright and horizontal, portable and stationary, and a special line of
fine machine building. Among the most prominent productions of the works
may be noted the Variable and Automatic Cut-off Engine, which was awarded
a gold medal at the St. Louis fair in 1878, for 93 percent efficiency;
agricultural and portable engines from 4 to 150-horse-power; locomotive,
tubular, flue and upright boilers; steam punches, Hall's patent steam
cranes, upright friction and detached hoisting machinery; the Acme cube
pipe tongs, and many other specialties, all bearing evidence of the
highest style of workmanship to be had in this section of the State. The
thorough system which prevails in every department of these works, and the
splendid facilities enjoyed enable the firm to conduct an immense
business, and the trade extends to all parts of the Wet, South and
Southwest, they having agencies in New York, Chicago, St. Louis, Toledo,
St. Paul, Denver, Dallas and Charlotte. The members composing the firm are
Orange Noble and L. H. Hall, the latter being the practical manager. Mr.
Noble is a gentleman too well know in the business circles of the State to
need any introduction at our hands, while Mr. Hall, as a thorough master
of the details of the works, has a reputation based upon the intrinsic
merit of its productions.
The Mt. Hickory Iron Company, office Scott's block, corner Tenth
and State streets, was established in the year 1879, and produces a line
of iron known as merchant and bridge iron. Their furnaces, two in number
are located at Sharpesville, Mercer Co., Penn., where employment is given
to a large number of men, and an annual production attained of 35,000 tons
of Bessemer, foundry and mill pig, the ores used being the Lake Superior,
Specular and Hematite, from the most celebrated mines in that favored
section. Much of this production finds its way to the various rolling
mills of the State, but a large part is utilized by the company's mill at
Erie, which it is more properly our province to notice. The Mt. Hickory
Rolling Mill is located in the western suburbs of the city on a plant of
thirty acres of the company's property, and is the largest concern of the
kind in this section of the State. The mill is a well-built structure, 120
feet in width by 280 feet in length, and is systematically appointed for
the rapid presentation of its work. It is full supplied with rolls and
other machinery necessary in the production of its specialty, the motive
power being supplied by nine engines of 350-horse-power combined.
Employment is given to from 250 to 275 men, the most of whom live about
the mill in houses furnished by the company -- twenty four in number. The
annual production aggregates 15,000 tons of fine grade of merchant and
bridge iron, railroad angle splicers, etc., which is sold to some extent
locally, and largely in Chicago and other Western points. The influence of
a concern giving employment to so many men, necessarily involving a large
outlay in wages, must be great in a community of this size, while the
character of its iron tends largely to maintain the city's reputation.
William L. Scott, a gentleman whose name is the synonym of enterprise
wherever known, is the Chairman of the company, while W. S. Brown is
Secretary and Treasurer. The superintendency of the rolling mill in detail
is intrusted to Thomas Palmer, a thorough and experienced man in this line
of business.*
*Since the above was written, these works, with all their
contents, was completely destroyed by fire on the 9th of December, 1883.
The Erie Forge company, corner Cascade and Fifteenth streets, was
organized in 1872, and began operations the year following on a
comparatively limited scale. In 1879, the works were entirely destroyed by
fire, but were immediately rebuilt on a much larger scale, and important
additions made to the size of the building, and to the machinery in 1880.
The works are located south of the tracks of the Lake Shore & Michigan
Southern Railroad, from which a siding connects the shops with all the
railroads. The plant includes several acres of ground, well adapted to the
purpose, the shops being 65x241 feet in dimensions. The east end is a
machine shop, fully equipped with the heavy machinery needed in the
successful prosecution of the business, which is operated by an engine of
40-horse-power. In the forging shop there are in use five heavy hammers,
six large furnaces and one large steam shear, all operated by separate
engines. The products of the works are hammered iron and steel, car and
engine axles, shafting, cranks and heavy forgings of all kinds, the value
of which amounts to a large sum annually. Employment is given to 125 men,
and the consumption of iron amounts to 125 tons, and of coal to 240 tons
per week, the works being run day and night. The character of the work
turned out has always been such as to give them a rank second to none. The
Erie Car Works use in their shops the axles produced by this company, and
the trade extends through all the country east of the Mississippi river,
and amounts to an immense sum annually. As a monument to the skill, energy
and enterprise of the proprietors, it stands among the most prominent in
the city, and is an important contributor to Erie's importance as a
manufacturing center. In the spring of 1883, it was changed from a
corporation to a firm, the members of which are George W. Starr, A.
Brabender and J. P. Harrington, the last named having charge of the works.
Davenport, Fairbairn & Co.: The works of this company are
located just west of the Erie Car Works, and adjoining them. They are
among the most famous, and are probably the largest in the country. The
capacity is 350 wheels per day. One hundred men are employed, and six
cupolas are kept in blast. Two of the cupolas used in melting charcoal
iron for wheels, have a capacity of 100 tons of metal per day. Four
engines, ranging from twenty to fifty-horse-power, are employed. This
company owns a large blast furnace at St. Ignace, Mich., said to be the
finest charcoal furnace in the world. Here they give employment to 250
men, all the iron produced being used in the manufacture of car wheels in
their own foundry of Erie. This company makes all the wheels used by the
Erie Car Works, and also supplies a large trade in different sections of
the country, and makes in addition a general line of railroad castings.
The members of the firm are W. R. Davenport, John Fairbairn and Col. H. B.
Plumer, of Franklin, Penn.
The Selden & Griswold Manufacturing Company, corner of Tenth
and Chestnut streets, began business in the year 1868, and at once secured
a reputation for excellence in their line second to no concern of its kind
in this section of the State. The works are situated in a portion of the
city convenient to the railroads, on valuable property, and consist of
foundry, 100x150 feet; finishing room, 30x90 feet, two stories in height,
the upper floor being used for machinery and mounting room; store room,
30x40 feet, two stories; store room No. 2, 60x95 feet, also two stories,
and engine and boiler room, in which an engine of fifty-horse power. The
number of men employed aggregates 100 and the production amounts to more
than $75,000 per year. The specialties of the works consist of small
castings, hollow ware of special sizes and extra finish house furnishing
utensils, stove trimmings and a great variety of work common to
establishments of this nature. The casings are of a fine grade, and all
the products of the house show careful and intelligent workmanship. Samuel
Selden's heirs, J. C. Selden and Matthew Griswold, are the proprietors,
and are fully posted in all the details of their business. They are
thoroughly in earnest in their work, are prominently identified with the
substantial welfare of the community, and their works are an important and
valuable adjunct of Erie's prosperity.
Jarecki, Hays & Co., Eleventh street, between State and Peach,
date their origin back to the year 1865, when the works were started by G.
and F. Jarecki. They were succeeded by Jarecki & Metz, who in turn
were followed by Jarecki, Metz & Co., who continued the business until
1870, when the firm became Jarecki, Hays & Co., as now known. The
goods here manufactured consist principally of supplies for water and gas
companies, brass goods, yard hydrants, extension service boxes, street
washers, etc. In this production, embracing many of the most important
accessories of water and gas service, the firm have been highly
successful, and in one or two specialties have won a national reputation.
We refer particularly to "Jarecki's Patent Extension Shut-Off
Box" for water and gas, and "Jarecki's Patent Extension Street
Washer," which have secured the most flattering testimonials from all
parts of the country. They make the hydrants known as McNamara's Patent
Compression Valve Dry Pipe and Jarecki's Keystone Compression Valve
Hydrants, besides a great variety of brass work, consisting of cocks for
all departments of gas and water service. The works consist of a
substantial brick building, three stories in height, 40x160 feet in
dimensions, and are fully equipped with every appliance for the rapid
production of their work. They employ twenty-eight hands, skilled in the
various pursuits, and manufacture a large amount of good annually. The
members of the firm are F. Jarecki, J. W. Hays, W. B. Hays and S. J. Law.
These gentlemen have become through their present work, strongly
identified with the substantial interests of the city.
T. M. Nagle, manufacturer of portable, stationary and agricultural
steam engines: These works, located at the corner of Sixteenth and Holland
streets, were erected by Mr. Nagle in September, 1879. The plant covers a
space of 125x350 feet, improved with substantial buildings, the main shop
being 45x200 feet in area, with a wing 40x60, and a blacksmith shop
adjoining 30x45 feet in dimensions. In 1883, there was erected a
substantial brick foundry 70x125 feet, while other improvements are
contemplated in the near future. From sixty to seventy skilled mechanics
are employed, and all the boiler work is made under contract by outside
parties. This force turned out 400 finished engines, ranging from eight to
fifty-horse-power, during 1883, while more than 1,000 engines have been
manufactured since the works were established. They are sold in all
portions of the United States, from Maine to Texas and from Florida to
Colorado, and the demand is fully up to the capacity of the works. The
specialty is portable steam engines, of which more are claimed to be
turned out at these works than at any other in this section of the State.
Mr. Nagle brings to his present business a thoroughly practical knowledge
of it, in all its details, gained from a long experience and a natural
aptitude of the business. The marked success he has met in this new
contribution to Erie's important industries is but a just tribute to his
ability as a manufacturer, and the energy and push which mark the
successful business man.
Cleveland & Co.: The foundry department of the Erie City Iron
Works, owned and operated by this firm, was organized in June, 1868, and
is located on the corner of Twelfth and French streets. They manufacture
all kinds of building and machinery castings. The building is a
substantial brick structure, 86x240 feet, wherein sixty men find
employment, turning out annually more than 2,000 tons of castings. The
firm is composed of W. L. Cleveland, F. F. Cleveland, George Selden and J.
H. Bliss, who are all favorably known and identified with the leading
manufacturing interests of Erie.
The Erie Engine Works, owned and carried on by Cleveland and
Hardwick, are located on the corner of Twelfth and State streets, formerly
the site of the Erie City Iron Works. The firm was organized in May, 1879,
and manufacture portable, stationary and cut-off engines, boilers, etc.,
employing sixty men, and turning out 12,000 horse power annually in
various sized engines ranging from 6 to 150-horse-power. W. L. Cleveland,
F. F. Cleveland and William Hardwick compose the firm.
Skinner & Wood's Engine Works were removed from New York State to
Erie in 1873, and began business on the corner of Eleventh and French
streets. In the winter of 1880-81, the firm erected their present works on
the corner of Twelfth and Chestnut, where the plant covers 125x300 feet of
ground. Fifty men find employment in these works, engaged in the
manufacturing only one style of portable and stationary engines, turning
out about 250 annually, though the works have a capacity of 300. The
buildings are frame and of the following dimensions: Machine shop, 45x150,
two stories; boiler room and blacksmith shop, 40x60, one story; foundry,
40x60; pattern house, 20x30; boiler finishing room 40x60; store house,
55x60, besides about 400 feet of shedding for storage, etc. The firm is L.
G. Skinner and Thomas C. Wood, whose enterprise and public spirit have
added much to the wealth and prosperity of their adopted city.
Ball Engine Works, on French, above Twelfth street, were
established in 1881, and incorporated in March, 1883. The plant is large
and improved with buildings ample for the accommodation of all the
departments of their work. The main shop of the works is 50x100 feet in
dimensions, supplemented by engine and boiler room and blacksmith shop.
The capacity of engines used is twenty horse-power, and employment is
given at all times to thirty men. The machinery, which is adapted
especially for the purposes for which it is used, is of the latest and
most improved patterns, and embraces every appurtenance and appliance for
the manufacture of the specialty of the works. Mr. Ball is a thoroughly
practical engine builder of many years' experience, and the engines made
here are the result of that experience and a thorough knowledge of
mechanics. The company is composed of W. H. Nicholson, President; F. H.
Ball, Secretary and Treasurer, and since its incorporation the firm has
been engaged in manufacturing their new automatic cut-off engines,
embodying a new system of regulation, in which the governor weighs the
load. They turn out from 100 to 120 engines annually, ranging from twenty
to sixty horse-power. This company is one of the prominent factors in
Erie's prosperity, and is an enterprise of substantial merit.
Taper Sleeve Pulley Works, on Twelfth, near Peach street, were
established in 1873, by A. B. Cook, and were conducted by him until May,
1877, when the present firm took possession. The works consist of a
three-story brick building, 50x155 feet in dimensions, with an addition on
the west side for lowering manufactured material. They are fully supplied
with all the machinery necessary in the production of their specialty,
operated by a sixty-horse-power boiler and twenty-horse-power engine, and
give employment to thirty-five men. The annual output amounts to from
$75,000, $100,000 and the trade reaches to all parts of the country. The
productions consist of taper sleeve wood belt pulleys, taper sleeve and
compression couplings, adjustable dead pulleys, wood pulleys, split or in
halves, friction clutch pulleys, and cut off couplings. These pulleys
possess points of merit, based upon true mechanical principles, which make
them valuable parts of well-adjusted and scientifically constructed line
shafting, which their use has fully demonstrated. The firm is composed of
A. H. Gray, Treasurer, and H. C. Crowell, Superintendent.
The South Erie Iron Works were established in 1868, on Peach street
between Nineteenth and Twentieth. They are the successor of the Eagle
Foundry, which was commenced some nine or ten years prior to that date by
William Henry and Adam Acheson. In 1868, the works were incorporated under
the above title, with William Henry, President, and R. Liebel, secretary.
The former was succeeded in 1882 by Adam Acheson, while Mr. Liebel is
still Secretary, and James Acheson, Treasurer. The main building is of
brick, 42,325, the front portion being two stories, and the rear one story
in height; the salesroom is a three story brick, 23x80, and there is a
frame storage room, 22x120, partly two stories high. Fifty men find
constant employment in these works, principally in the manufacture of all
classes of stoves. It is one of the leading establishments of South Erie,
and its enterprising proprietors are deserving of honest commendation in
this article.
The Erie City Nickel Plating Company, corner Thirteenth and Parade
streets, are the largest works in the city devoted to this business, and
were established in the year 1880. From their inception, the reliable
character of their work drew large amount of business to them. The
building used for the purpose is in dimensions 24x100 feet, furnished
throughout with the latest improved appliances of the business, and is
supplied with an engine of twelve-horse power. The number of men employed
is at all times from 25 to 30, and the value of the work done runs up into
the thousands of dollars annually. When the nature of the art of nickel
plating is considered, and the comparative smallness of the cost of the
service rendered, it is to the uninitiated a mystery how a concern engaged
in the business can do enough work to show a business that amounts to
thousands of dollars per year, but a visit to these works will enlighten
the most ignorant on the subject, when he sees the innumerable articles,
and the vast quantities of them sent from the largest concerns in the city
to be plated. Excellence of workmanship and durability of finish are the
characteristics of all the work at this establishment, and have won it
high praise. The firm is composed of A. McArthur and J. McArthur, father
and son, respectively. The latter is the practical head of the works, and
is a thoroughly posted man in all the finer details and secrets of the
art. This establishment does all the plating of the Chicago and Erie Stove
Company, which alone is an invincible proof of the superior class of work
turned out.
Root & Burrows Nickel Plating and Metal Finishing works began
operations in July, 1878, at 1237 Peach street, its present location. The
building is a three-story brick, 40x60 feet in dimensions, and the firm
gives employment to from twenty to twenty-five hands. All the plating of
the Black & Germer stove works is done in this establishment, which in
itself is a sufficient guarantee of the excellent quality of their work.
Stonemetz Printers' Machinery Company is the successor of that
branch previously carried on by Noble & Hall, who began the
manufacture of the Stonemetz Folding Machines in July, 1879. They were
made at that establishment until August, 1882, when the present company
was established and began operations on Twelfth street, between Sassafras
and Chestnut. The machine shop is 40x120 feet; the engine room is 18x25
feet; the blacksmith shop is 14x25 feet, besides a storage room, all of
which are one-story brick structures. One 25-horse-power engine furnished
the motive power, and the firm employs on an average thirty hands, who
find steady work throughout the year. Their market extends all over the
Union, and twenty-six different styles and sizes of these machines are
manufactured by the Stonemetz company. The business is constantly growing,
and the future has, doubtless, in store a fitting reward for the energy
and enterprise of this firm.
The F. F. Adams Company, corner of Fifteenth and Cherry streets: No
establishment in Erie furnishes such a striking illustration of the
results of enterprise, vigorous, persistent work and splendid management
as is afforded in the present condition of the works of the F. F. Adams
Company. Notwithstanding the severe competition which the products of the
factory have to meet, and the fact that the premises were swept by fire,
December 13, 1880, they have been replaced by structures more substantial
and of greater utility than those destroyed and the products maintain a
position in the trade which the fiercest competition has failed to weaken,
or the rapid invention of the age to excel. The works had their origin in
the year 1869, and were known by the firm name of Adams & Lovell,
continuing so until 1870, when they were operated by F. F. Adams until
1874, when, by the admission of A. H. Gray, they were known as F. F. Adams
& Co. There were one or two other changes between that and 1878, at
which time they assumed the title of F. F. Adams & Co., limited, which
remained until January, 1883, when the present name was adopted. The plant
is one of the best and most eligibly located in the city, being directly
on the line of the Lake shore & Michigan Southern and Erie &
Pittsburg Railroads, with switches into their yards for the convenience of
receiving and shipping goods, and covers an area of two and one-half
acres. The building utilized are as follows: Factory No. 1, 50x135 feet,
two stories high, with an L of the same height, 40x50 feet; Factory No. 2,
40x105 feet, two stories high, with an L 30x40 feet in the two story
portion, and 30x60 in the one-story portion; Engine House, 40x40 feet, of
brick, two stories high, in which are two engines of 50-horse power each;
store rooms and offices, 50x125 feet, besides the dry house and outside
shedding devoted to various uses. The products of this establishment
comprise the celebrated Keystone Wringers and Washing Machines, step and
extension ladders, and household articles of too great a variety for
enumeration. Employment is given to 175 hands, involving a large outlay of
wages, while the business aggregates the sum of from $300,000 to $400,000
per annum, and reaches to all parts of the country. An output of these
proportions from any concern devoted to the productions of wooden
articles, will be appreciated by those familiar with such production, and
in the trade must place this house as one of the largest in the country.
The possession of a vast amount of machinery, with facilities for making
their own malleable iron castings, annealing and nickel plating, make the
works the most complete in every department, and fully explains their
ability to produce such a large quantity of work. The members of the
company are F. F. Adams, President; W. T. Farrar, Secretary and Treasurer;
C. W. Farrar and C. F. Adams. These gentlemen have given to the city of
Erie an establishment which as a factor in its manufacturing wealth, is
one of the most important, and while endowing the city, have made for
themselves a reputation co-extensive with their productions.
The Burdett Organ Company, limited, corner Twelfth and Walnut
streets: Probably the name of Erie has become more widely known through
the sale of the products of the Burdett Organ Factory than from those of
any other establishment located in her midst. These organs have been
shipped to every civilized country on the globe, and even among the
schools, churches and missionaries located in heathen lands, and wherever
their melody is heard the fame of Erie as a manufacturing center has been
attested. No man living has done more to perfect this popular instrument
than Mr. Burdett, and the twenty-six patented inventions embraced in the
Burdett organs, effecting movement, tone, construction, material, and in
fact pervading the entire mechanism, justifies this statement. A Mr.
Carhart, of Buffalo, is entitled to credit for important improvements made
from 1839 to 1846. It was about this time that Mr. Burdett began the
business which, under his hands, has become the important enterprise of
which we write to-day. Commencing in Brattleboro, Vt., Mr. Burdett
continued his work there till 1865, when the firm of R. Burdett Organ
Company was organized and located in Chicago. They remained there until
burned out in the great Chicago fire. Then the Burdett Organ Company,
limited, was organized, and a new factory built in Erie, on ground now
occupied, which is a tract embracing about five acres of land, nearly
one-half of which is utilized in their business. The main building is an
imposing five-story brick structure, 150 feet front, in which are the
various departments devoted to the building of every part of an organ. The
machinery used is the most perfect of its kind made, especially adapted to
the work required, much of it being of the most novel and ingenious
construction, and is operated by an engine of 75-horse power. In the
selection of timber, every possible pains is taken. The company employ one
man constantly in looking up and getting out black walnut lumber in the
West, and they have often on hand in one lot over 900,000 feet of sawed
walnut, seasoning. All lumber first time-dried, then kiln-dried, and
afterward piled under cover until it is exactly in a condition to be used.
Nothing but the fines possible class of materials is used, and every part
of the organ, except the ivory keys, is made at the factory. Employment is
furnished to 125 men, all thoroughly skilled in making some particular
part of an organ, and by being constantly employed on this one part of the
work, is enabled to produce it in perfection. The product of the factory
reaches 300 organs per month, and the demand is such that no stock ever
accumulates on hand, being sold as fast as made. No better comment can be
made on these celebrated organs than the statement that the entire make is
sold, and none are ever consigned to agents. The company has neither
depot, salesroom nor agent of its own, and finds ready sale for all it can
produce. The Burdett organ is made in several styles of case, in almost
numberless styles of action, and at list prices ranging from $175 to
$1,200. The sale of over 45,000 instruments is the best evidence that can
be brought of their merit. The company is a limited corporation, its
principal officers and stockholders being R. Burdett, Chairman; P.
Metcalf, Treasurer; C. C. Converse, Secretary and Business Manager; and B.
O. Church, Superintendent, gentlemen who are justly accorded a high
position among Erie's enterprising manufacturers.
Erie Burial Case Company, limited, office over Dime Savings Bank:
This enterprise was started in 1873, under its present title, and after
several charges came under the present management in 1881, with William
Smith as President and W. Barry Smith, Secretary and Treasurer. These
gentlemen, with Mr. Giles and George Caldwell, are present managers and
principal owners. The works are well located just south of the city
limits, are substantially built, and enjoy every facility for the rapid
and economical production of work, yet the demand for their goods has
outgrown their capacity and they have been adding new machinery and
enlarging the works, adding also to the variety of the line of
manufacture. Under the present management there has been a very gratifying
yearly increase of trade. All kinds of wooden coffins and caskets, cloth
covered or finished in wood, are made, man of them in new styles peculiar
to this company. A full line of undertakers' supplies is dealt in, and
metallic caskets of all kinds handled. The works occupy two large brick
buildings three stories in height, each 40x100 feet in dimensions, besides
a three-story brick addition, 20x30, for engine, boilers, etc., the plant
covering two acres of ground. Fifty men are employed in the different
departments of the work, and a full line of wood working machinery, which
is driven by an engine of 40-horse-power. The company has no competitor in
this section, and its trade extends over a wide extent of country. The
present statement of its affairs odes not do the Erie Burial Case Company
justice and gives no adequate idea of the amount of energy and enterprise
manifested in the management and capacity to do business. The improvements
and additional facilities recently put in will surely place it in the
front rank of the manufactories of this line of goods.
A. B. Felgemaker & Co., organ factory, corner of Twenty-fifth
and Ash streets, was originally established in the city of Buffalo in the
year 1865, but was removed to this city in the year 1871, when it was
operated as a stock company up to the year 1875, under the name of
"The Derrick & Felgemaker Pipe Organ Company," but after
that year became as now know. The premises occupied are one of the most
complete possessed by any concern in this city, and consists of a handsome
four-story brick structure 40 feet wide by 200 fee long, built in 1872,
with a frame wing 20 feet wide by 100 feet long, erected in 1871, and used
for the machinery necessary in the business. The steam power is supplied
by an engine of 30 horse-power, and employment is given to twenty-five
practical organ builders. The trade of the house, which has been made
solely on the merits of the instruments turned out, extends to all
sections of the South and West, and aggregates a large sum annually. Mr.
Felgemaker, a practical and experienced organ builder, has his work in
many of the best churches in this State and others, and his references
represent some of the best professional performers in the United States.
The special points of excellence which characterize all his work are amply
set forth in his pamphlets, and while it is apparent to all, that all work
turned out is of a fine character, the critics of this class of
manufacture are the ones most impressed with its excellence. These works
deserve the highest considerations from the people of Erie, while the
products entitle it to a conspicuous position among the organ factories of
the land.
Erie Steam Bending Works, corner Twelfth and Cherry streets, were
established originally in 1868, by Hartleb, Metz & Co., who operated
them for about ten years, when they were succeeded by H. H. Fink &
Co., and later on by H. G. Fink, who has since conducted them entirely
alone, in a manner reflecting much credit upon himself as a business
manager. The works are located in one of the best sections of the city for
manufacturing purposes, occupying two acres of ground, improved with
substantial buildings, as follows: Main factory, 60x165 feet; saw mill,
24x60 feet; engine house, 22x30 feet, containing two engines, one of 20
and one of 45-horse power, besides eight store houses of large capacity,
shedding, etc. They give employment to from thirty to forty men, and the
annual production amounts to over $120,000. The work turned out consists
of bent felloes, poles, shafts, bob-runners, rims, etc., and the market
extends all over the country, to the principal carriage building centers,
while a steady local trade is enjoyed. The material used in the best
selected hickory and oak, which is obtained principally from the adjoining
counties of this State and the State of Ohio. The Erie Steam Bending
Works, as a permanent industry, are one of the most important located
here, and the history of their progress from the time of Mr. Fink's
connection with the, furnishes one of the best examples of the results of
enterprise and sound business principles properly applied, which the city
affords.
Erie Wooden Ware Works, corner Twelfth and Poplar streets: This
section of Pennsylvania being one favored with a prolific growth of the
woods most sought by manufacturers of wooden ware, has stimulated the
prosecution of that line of industry to a degree which makes it one
involving an immense investment of capital, and the employment of
thousands of men. The Erie Wooden Ware Works of this city is an
illustration of this fact. In the filling of their annual orders they have
found it necessary to procure supplies from the State of Ohio, where they
have erected saw mills in the heart of the best lumber country, and take
out large quantities annually. This company was established in the year
1873 and has enjoyed since then an uninterrupted success. The plant cover
two acres of ground, inclosed and covered with buildings devoted to the
various wants of their business. They have a steam power of 70-horse,
employ fifty men, and have a capacity of 2,400 pails per day. These
consists of water pails, horse buckets, lard and tobacco pails, candy
buckets, butter and jelly packages. They are made in the most workman like
manner, and their sale reaches to many parts of the East, West and South.
To such proportions has the firm brought the business that they now
produce annually $75,000 worth of pails of all kinds. This display of
enterprise bespeaks the character of the owners, while it has placed their
works in the front of the producers of this line of manufacture. The firm
is H. J. Howe, R. T. McClure and T. W. Shacklett, all of them residents of
the city to which they have contributed such an important industry.
Bauschard & Bros.' Planing Mill, corner Tenth and Holland
streets: The business of this firm really dates its origin from the
formation of Bauschard, Gloth & Co., in 1866. That copartnership was
succeeded by Gloth, Schulte and Co., and in 1868 Messrs. Bauschard &
Son built the present factory, or rather, a part of it, the original
building having been added to from time to time since, until now the
establishment is one of the most complete of its kind in the city. The
main factory, which was originally 24x48 feet, has brown to the
proportions of 46x165 feet, and dry-kiln of brick three stories in height,
24x36 feet in dimensions. The dry-kiln and lumber yard are across Holland
street from the factory, and occupy three city lots. The machinery is of
the newest and most approved kinds, consisting of planers, molding
machines, and the great variety necessary in their business, with a steam
power of 45-horse. Employment is given to from fifty to seventy-five men,
and the production annually amounts to about $75,000. This consists of
sash, doors, blinds, siding, flooring, molding, stairs, verandah work,
etc., besides a line of hard wood work for court houses, churches, banks,
dwellings, halls, etc., of a very superior and ornamental style. The works
enjoy a large local trade, while that derived from distant points in the
State is constantly increasing.
Constable Bros.' Planing Mill, corner Fifth and Sassafras streets,
was established in the year 1849 by Constable & Jones, and ever since
its commencement has been a successful concern. John Constable was at that
time the practical head of the business, and continued to be so until a
few years ago, when he disposed of it to his sons W. H. Constable and E.
W. Constable, but is still to be found at the works, actively supervising
the details of all work. The firm is fortunate in being able to command
the services of this gentleman, as his knowledge and ripe experience are
of great benefit in the practical administration of the affairs at the
mill. The plant has a frontage and depth of 165 feet, or nearly one acre
of ground, and is improved with shedding for the storage of lumber,
besides the sash and planing mill, which is in dimensions three stories
high, 44x80 feet, and an engine and boiler room 14x40 feet. The supply of
machinery embraces molding and mortising machines, planers, and in fact
everything in the line of improved wood working machinery, the whole being
driven by an engine of twenty-five horse-power. The production includes
sash, doors, blinds, siding, moldings, flooring, pickets, brackets,
verandah work, and box and crate making, requiring the use of nearly
500,000 feet of lumber per annum, and giving employment to twenty-five men
at all times. The firm are also contractors for the furnishing of any
desired work, taking contracts from foundation to roof of any sized
building, or number of them, and some of the most prominent buildings in
the city bear evidences of their handiwork.
Erie City Planing Mill, corner of Eleventh and French streets:
among the widely known establishments for manufacturing and furnishing
lumber, the "Erie City Planing Mill" deserves notice. W. H.
Deming established this business on Peach street in 1870, though for
several years prior to that he had been a very extensive dealer in lumber,
and was located in Warren County. In 1874, he erected the present
establishment, which is a substantial brick structure, on the corner of
Eleventh and French streets, 90x100 feet in dimensions, with a lot of much
larger proportions. The building is about one-half three stories, and the
remainder two stories high, and contains a full equipment of all the
machinery required in the business, which is new, of the most improved
construction, and includes a saw mill with circular saw, where in addition
to its own work, a large amount of custom sawing is done. An engine of
one-hundred-horse-power is used, and a force of men running from twenty to
twenty-five find constant employment. Everything in the way of dimension
timber, rough and dressed lumber, flooring, siding, moldings, sash, doors,
blinds, hard wood work for banks, court houses and churches, and all other
planing mill work is done to order, and every facility enjoyed for turning
out work promptly, and in the most workmanlike manner. In November 1882,
Althof Bros. rented the mill and succeeded to the large trade which had
previously been secured by Mr. Deming. Much attention has been devoted to
contracting and building, and the factory has always enjoyed a fair share
of business in this department.
H. Ramsay, Fourth street, between Peach and State, has for many
years been a prominent builder and contractor in this city, and his skill
is recognized in some of Erie's handsomest and most enduring structures,
among which we may mention the Scott Block, which has the reputation of
being the best constructed building in the city. His work is not confined
to Erie alone, but takes in a large section of the adjoining country. His
shops are in dimensions 40x75 feet, built substantially of brick, supplied
with necessary machinery for turning out window frames, sash, doors,
blinds, flooring, etc., and employing an average of twenty men. The motive
power is supplied by an engine of forty-horse-power, and the business done
annually amounts to about $50,000. Mr. Ramsay cam to Erie in 1863, and was
formerly in business as Constable & Ramsey, but after the dissolution
Mr. Ramsay established the present works in 1877. His resources are such
that he is prepared to take contracts for any sized buildings or any
number of them, and the many specimens of his work to be found here are a
sufficient guarantee of its excellence.
Daniel McDonald, Parade street, between Eighth and Ninth, is one of
the best known contractors and builders of Erie who has become prominent
from his work, and since much of it is to be found in the best structures
of the city, we accord him space here as a contributor to the arts
thereof. He came to Erie some eighteen years ago, and in 1879 began
business on Eighth street near State, whence he removed to his present
location where stair building and general jobbing is carried on, and
employment given to thirty men. His principal business is contracting,
which he carries on to a large extent in the city and other portions of
the State, amounting to $100,000 annually. He is prepared to contract for
all classes of buildings, and his well known reputation and ability for
the satisfactory filling of all contracts is a sufficient guarantee that
any work of this nature will be thoroughly and honestly prosecuted.
Downing Carriage Company, Eighteenth, between German and Holland
streets: One of the most important manufactories in the city of Erie is
the above, which was formerly the Erie Chair Company, and was established
in 1874. Mr. Downing having originated and perfected what is now
universally known as the Excelsior Sleeping Couch (a child's carriage),
the firm on January 1, 1882, determined to adopt the present tile in honor
of his patents, and to manufacture these carriages almost exclusively, of
course continuing to make the "combination baby chairs," but no
others. The factory is a brick building, three stories in height, 40x44
feet in dimensions, with a frame L attached 38x85 feet, two stories in
height, the first floor being used for machinery, and the upper for a
finishing department. The blacksmith shop is separate, 15x30 feet, and a
frame storage room, 30x60, two stories, and brick engine house 21,30 feet.
The steam power is supplied by two engines, one of 40 and the other of
3-horse power. The number of men employed is about 20 at all times, and
the number of carriages produced will this year reach 3,000, and probably
more, ranging in price from $14 to $50, according to style, size and
finish. The trade of the factory extends to all parts of the United
States. The proprietors, Messrs. C. F. Bostwick and H. N. Thayer, are both
practical men in every department of the work, and personally supervise
all details. They have for a long while been identified with the business
interests of the city and in this enterprise have given it an
establishment which is a credit in every way.
Keystone Carriage Works, corner Eighth and Holland streets, were
established in 1878, by the firm of Harrison & Leemhuis Brothers. The
premises which they own are 123x165 feet, and are conveniently located and
arranged, one shop being 25x60 feet in dimensions, and the other 36x70,
both being two stories in height. There is also a woodshop 17x48, and a
storage room 20x38. During the busy season, a force of fifteen hands is
employed, and the work turned out embraces everything in the line,
including fine carriages, platform spring wagons, tracks, cutters,
sleighs, etc. In 1880, Leemhuis Brothers became the sole proprietors of
the business, and by their energy and the fine reputation of their work
they are building up a substantial trade. Horse-shoeing, general
blacksmithing and repairing are important features of the factory, and
every facility is enjoyed for the prompt prosecution of the business in a
most workmanlike manner. Both members of the firm are practical workmen,
and give their personal attention to all branches of the business.
Noble Sewing Machine Company, corner Eighteenth and Plum streets,
was started in 1881. It is located in the western part of the city, on
grounds 60x200 feet, improved with substantial buildings, which are fitted
with the most approved machinery known for the production of their work,
costing $55,000. This is driven by an engine of 50-horse-power, and
employment is given to sixty men. In the manufacture of the Noble Sewing
Machine, the company possesses two points which entitle them to the
fullest consideration; first, valuable patents, which are the result of a
life-long study, and familiarity with sewing machine manufacture, the
patents covering the most important essentials of a light running, durable
and convenient machine, and secondly, the patentee, Mr. Mayo, is on hand,
personally supervising the application of his patents, and looking after
the construction of the machine in every part. George H. Noble is
proprietor of the works, and possessing full qualifications for the
prosecution of his enterprise, and being so situated that every facility
for the conducting of an extensive business is enjoyed, he is destined to
make the Noble Sewing Machine one of wide repute upon its merits, while to
the city he gives an industry which adds much to its wealth and
reputation.
Eureka Manufacturing Company, limited, corner of Twelfth and
Raspberry streets, was established in January, 1881, by a coterie of
investors, who began business in Schutte's planing mill, which stood on
Fourth street near Cascade. During the same year, E. J. Cowell and William
Varnum, together with John Minnig and John J. Roemer, of the original
stockholders, became principal owners, and erected the nucleus of the
present works. The buildings were then 40x60, two stories high, but in the
summer of 1882, they were enlarged being now 60x100, a portion of which is
three stories in height. One 30-horse-power engine furnished the motive
power, while an average of 35 men find employment here, the annual sales
amounting to about $40,000. All classes of wooden notions for household
use, are manufactured at this establishment, which have been so well
appreciated that the business done is surprising, while the trade is
steadily growing and surely becoming an important one under the efficient
management of the present proprietors.
Riblet Brothers, furniture factory, corner of Twelfth and Peach
streets: Fifty years ago, John H. and Jonathan Riblet began the
manufacture of furniture in Erie, which through their industry, the
factory known by the above title has grown to its present large
dimensions. John H. Riblet was the head of the firm until his death, in
1879. About 1865, they commenced manufacturing by machinery, at the
intersection of Canal and Eighth streets, but in 1871 removed the factory
to its present location. The building is 30x125, three stories high with
basement, furnished throughout with first-class machinery, and operated by
a fifteen-horse-power engine. The firm employe thirty-two men and
manufacture only for their own retail trade, their house being at No. 926
State street. A. K. and E. J. Riblet comprise the firm, and they intend in
the near future to erect a fine salesroom adjoining the factory, thereby
saving the expenses of much hauling, by concentrating their business at
one point, besides obtaining the necessary room now required for their
growing trade.
The Exhibition Show Case Company was organized in 1877, and began
business the following year over Snyder Brother's shop on State street,
near Turnpike. In 1883, the firm removed to the large frame on the corner
of Eighteenth and Peach streets, which had previously been used as a
carriage shop by Henry Mankle. The building is 50x120, three stories high,
and the machine work is done at the Erie City Planing Mill. The firm is
composed of G. W. Churchill, J. W. Churchill and P. Hendrichs, employs
thirty-eight hands, and are the exclusive manufacturers of the Upright
Sectional Show Cases, which are sold all over the United States and
Canada, their annual sales amounting to $35,000.
Olds' Pump Company, limited, had its beginning in 1845, when L. W.
Olds started a factory in East Mill Creek Township. In 1853, he removed to
Erie, and has ever since carried on the business in this city. In March,
1881, the company was incorporated, and now employs six men in the
manufacture of well, cistern and water tubing. L. W. Olds, the senior
member of the company, claims to be the pioneer manufacturer of wooden
pumps in the State. George Olds has had a pump factory on Thirteenth,
between Peach and Sassafras streets since 1865, but in 1881 the two firms
were consolidated under the present title, Clark and William Olds being
also members of the company.
Two extensive planing mills and lumber yards are located on Front street,
viz., James McBrier & Co., and George Carroll & Bro. The
first mentioned lying between State and French streets, is one of the
oldest and widely known yards of Erie. The mill is 66x170, the lumber yard
covering the block between State and French, north of Front street to the
bay. In the summer season the firm employs sixty-five men, and thirty in
the winter time. About 4,000,000 feet of lumber are manufactured, beside
6,000,000 feet of rough lumber handled annually. All the pine is obtained
from Michigan, while the firm also handle the native hard woods. The firm
of George Carroll & Brother, whose planing mills and lumber yards are
located on Front street, east of French, is well and favorably known,
having been organized in 1865, and is one of the flourishing manufacturing
interest of Erie.
We have previously given the early history of the Densmore Flouring
Mills, now owned and operated by William Densmore & Co. They
contain many of the latest improvements in cleaning and grinding wheat,
though not using the roller process, and the product ranks high in the
market of Erie. Though located on Mill Creek, the motive power is supplied
by an engine. The mill is fitted with four run of stone, all used in
grinding wheat, the daily capacity being about 400 bushels. The product
finds a ready sale in the home market, and a large portion of it is
consumed here, though some shipping trade is enjoyed. Mr. Densmore has
been a resident of Erie since 1838, and of his ability as a miller, the
high reputation enjoyed by the Densmore Mills is the best evidence.
The Fairmount Mills, Eighth street, near Holland, is one of the
pioneer mills of Erie, and we have previously mentioned it in that
connection, but though its hewed timbers and outward appearance bespeak
its age, its internal arrangement and the improved character of its
machinery mark its proprietors as enterprising, progressive millers, and
the reputation of its product is equal to any mill in this section of the
state. It came into the possession of J. B. Crouch & Co. in 1872, and
prior to the fall of 1883 was operated by both water and steam power, but
at that time the mill underwent a thorough repairing, a full line of
Stevens' rolls, with a capacity of 150 bushels of flour per day, were put
in, and the use of water-power abandoned, steam alone being now used. The
mill is a three-story frame structure, wherein twelve men find employment,
and their markets are along the several railroads centering in Erie.
In 1865, Oliver & Bacon purchased the Canal Flouring Mills, on
the corner of Sixth and Myrtle streets. They had been in operation some
years, the native power being supplied from the canal, but they were
finally converted into a steam mill, and water-power abandoned. In the
spring of 1883, a complete line of Stevens' rolls, with a capacity of 200
barrels per day, were added, and, besides, running up to the full capacity
in the manufacture of flour also grinds daily about twenty tons of meal
and feed. It is a four-story frame building, 40x90, furnished with a Colt
double engine of 100-horse-power, and was erected by William Kelley, under
the supervision of Jubiel Towner, one of the pioneer millers of Erie. The
grade of flour turned out by this mill is second to none, and besides a
large home trade the product is sold along the line of the Philadelphia
& Erie Railroad, any surplus of low grade being shipped to New York
for export. The firm is John Oliver and S. E. Bacon, and twenty-two men
find steady employment at this mill, which runs day and night.
Merchant Mills: In 1872, Crouch Brothers erected the four story
brick mill, 80x140, on the corner of Holland street, and the Pennsylvania
and Lake Shore Railroads, a very eligible site on of the fine shipping
facilities afforded by these lines. The mill began business with ten run
of stone buhrs, but in 1882 it was furnished with a complete set of
Stevens' rolls, having a capacity of 400 barrels of flour per day, besides
twenty-five tons of meal and feed. The firm of P. & O. E. Crouch
employs in this mill twenty men, and besides a large local trade ship
their flour through Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York. A large amount of
grain is also bought at this mill and shipped to the Eastern cities.
C. E. Gunnison & Co., tanners, No. 238 West Eighteenth street:
The tannery to whose interests this article is devoted was established by
the present proprietors in 1859, and has been operated by them ever since.
The tannery consists of a large brick building, partly two and partly
three stories in height; the three-story part 53x54 feet, and the
two-story part 22x70 feet in dimensions. Attached to this building is
their office, 20x20 feet, besides an engine and boiler room 30x75 feet in
dimensions. They use a twenty-horse-power engine and boiler of much larger
capacity, give employment to sixteen hands, and have a capacity of about
250 sides per week. They make harness and rough leather principally, and
find a ready market for all the produce, the harness leather being sold to
the general trade here, while all the rough leather is shipped to the
East. The average annual production will reach the sum of $50,000. The
individual members of the firm are C. E. and J. B. Gunnison. The latter is
thoroughly practical in the business, attends carefully to details, and
their product is the equal of any in the market.
E. Streuber & Bro., tannery, State street, between Eighteenth
and Nineteenth: The manufacture of leather is a branch of industry very
extensively pursued in Erie, and the above firm are leading tanners and
curriers of the city. The business was founded by John Streuber, the
father of the present proprietors, in 1861, and was conducted by him until
his death in 1872. In 1871, the senior member of the present firm was
admitted to an interest in the business, and five years later George
Streuber became a partner, when the present firm name was assumed. The
premises occupied are a brick building five-stories high, and a rear frame
L., the whole covering an area of 100x165 feet. The establishment gives
employment to twenty-four men, and turns out finished calf, kip, upper,
harness and sole leather, besides some unfinished light stock, which is
worked into carriage leather, etc. The total value of the product reaches
annually $120,000. The stock is shipped to all sections of the country,
principally to the West, but sales are not confined to any locality. The
reputation of this tannery is high wherever its product is known, and
every attention is bestowed to maintain a high standard of quality.
Lake City Malt House, No. 432 West Ninth street: This enterprise
was started in 1859 by Ben Butterfield, annually producing 5,000 bushels
of malt, and in 1864 was purchased by Jacob Weschler, its present
proprietor. The large and conveniently arranged office an warehouse is
55x110 feet in dimensions; the malt house is five-stories high and is
built of brick; the drying kiln adjoining is 30x45 feet in dimensions,
also of brick, containing two wire cloth floors, which are the best in
this city, and as good as any in the Union. These buildings are admirably
located, being in close proximity to the railroads and lake navigation,
having a storage capacity of 60,000 bushels, thus affording excellent
facilities for the reception and shipment of goods. The production of this
malt house aggregates from 100,000 to 125,000 bushels yearly, which is
principally barley malt. In the spring of 1883, Mr. Weschler erected a
brick malt house, 70x100 feet, five and six stories high, with a storage
capacity of 100,000 bushels. It is located on the corner of Parade and
Sixteenth streets, opposite the freight depot of the Pennsylvania
Railroad, having switches to that and the Lake Shore road. The great bulk
of grain is purchased in Canada, while a small percentage is of home
production. By far the largest portion of malt made by this house is
shipped to New York City, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Allegheny City,
where it always finds a ready market and the preference of trade. Mr.
Weschler has in his employ fifteen experienced workman, besides being a
practical man himself in both brewing and malting. He has lived here for
the past thirty-four years, and is a gentleman with whom it is a pleasure
to do business. His two sons, Daniel D. and Leo B. Weschler, are valuable
assistants in managing the business, the former traveling, selling the
malt and buying barley, of which nothing but the finest quality is used,
the latter having charge of the malting.
The Erie Malting company, corner of Eighteenth and Parade streets:
The nucleus of this business was laid by Alfred King, who purchased nearly
five acres of ground from Gen. C. M. Reed, upon which he erected a part of
the present building. The property passed into the hands of the Keystone
Bank who sold it to the present owners. The firm as now constituted was
established in the year 1873. The premises consist of a plat of ground
120x200 feet, on which is erected a brick malt house four stories in
height, where employment is given to fifteen experienced maltsters. The
house is one of the best appointed for the production of its specialty,
every part being arranged for the most convenient handling of the grain in
its first receipt, and the subsequent processes through which it passes. A
twelve-horse-power engine is utilized, and the annual product aggregates
85,000 bushels of barley malt. The firm malt no other grain, and in
addition to giving employment to the number of men engaged, afford the
farmers of this section a ready market for all the barley offered, at the
highest cash price. The enterprise of the firm at this point is only a
portion of their business, they operating the business on a large scale in
the city of Baltimore, where the Strauses are well known as among that
city's most enterprising citizens. The firm is composed of H. Straus, L.
Straus, S. Straus and A. Bell, all residents of Baltimore, while the
practical oversight of their business at this point is looked after by A.
L. Straus, the son of one of the owners, a young man of thorough business
training, who has strongly identified himself with the city's best
interests.
Downer & Howard, brewers, corner of Seventeenth and Parade
streets: This brewery was established by Adam Dietz many years ago, the
building being erected by him on land bought of Rufus S. Reed. A law suit
afterward came up over the right to the water of a spring some distance
south of the city, which Dietz claimed to have purchased of Reed, and the
courts sustained the claims of the former to the spring water. Alfred King
bought the brewery of Dietz, and it subsequently passed into the
possession of the Keystone Bank, who sold it to Downer & Howard in
1872. The brewery consists of four large and substantial structures,
completely fitted up in every department with all the latest improvements.
The annual capacity is about 3,000 barrels, and six hands are constantly
employed in its production. The beer from their brewery has become very
popular, not only in Erie, but is sold in large quantities in Cleveland,
Chicago, Buffalo and elsewhere. It is made from well-selected malt and
hops, is entirely free from all impurities and adulterations, and is
highly prized as an excellent and healthful beverage. In connection with
their brewing interests, the firm is engaged in the shipment of malt and
hops, their principal market being in the West.
The Eagle Brewery, State street, was established about 1846, and
was owned by Fry & Schuff. The former gentleman retired from the
business in 1854, and was succeeded by J. H. Kalvelage, who two years
later, became sole proprietor. The premises occupy nearly a square between
Twenty-first and Twenty-second streets, running from Peach to State,
besides an extensive ice house on the east side of State street. The
cellars are very extensive, and furnish unsurpassed store room for the
large stock of lager always carried. A patent ice house, of approved
construction, 50x80 feet, built in 1871, is an important addition, while
the latest improvements and appliances for brewing purposes have been
introduced. The Eagle Brewery makes most of its own malt, and the care
bestowed here add largely to the reputation of the lager. An engine of 13
horse power is used, twelve men and three teams are employed, and the
product reaches from 8,000 to 10,000 barrels per annum. The reputation of
the Eagle Brewery is such that almost the entire make is sold at home
though some shipping trade, extending East, West and South, is enjoyed.
J. S. Riddle, maltster, corner of Fourteenth and Holland streets:
The malt house owned and operated by Col. Riddle was established in 1875
by Densmore & McCarter, and so continued until 1879, when W. J.
McCarter became sole proprietor. In November, 1882, he was succeeded by
Col. Riddle, who has since carried on the business. The malt house is of
brick, two stories high, 70x130 feet in dimensions, and is in close
proximity to the railroads, thus being admirably located for the reception
and shipment of goods. His production aggregates 35,000 bushels yearly,
and is principally barley malt. The great bulk of grain is purchased in
Canada, while a small percentage is of home production. In addition to
malting, he annually handles about 35,000 bushels of barley, of lake shore
and Canada growth, which is sold to the general trade. The greater portion
of malt produced by this house is shipped to New York.
The National Brewery, corner of Sixth and Parade streets, was
established about 1848 by Jacob Fuess, after whose decease his stepson, C.
M. Conrad, fell heir to the property. The house has a capacity of 25,000
barrels, but its annual production is about 15,000. Since Mr. Conrad
became proprietor, the business has gradually increased, and twenty men
now find employment at this brewery, while its beer is of first-class
quality.
Koehler's Brewery, corner of Twenty-sixth and Holland streets, was
established in 1860, by Charles Koehler, after whose death his son, F.
Koehler, became proprietor. The father began business on a very small
scale, which increased with the passing years until today a fine four
story brick building 60x200 feet, stands upon the old site. This brewery
employs eighteen men, consumes about 30,000 bushels of malt per year, and
manufactures about 14,000 barrels of beer annually, which is second to
none in the market.
Erie Boot and Shoe Company, corner of Ash and Twenty-fifth streets.
The most extensive establishment devoted to the production of boots and
shoes in this section of our State is the Erie Boot and Shoe Company, of
which J. Eichenlaub is president and General Manager, and J. W. Ryan,
Treasurer. This company was organized and started business in 1871, and
from its inception until the present day has grown in importance until now
it can justly be ranked among the leading industries of the city. The
factory of this company, located at the corner of Ash and Twenty-fifth
streets, was erected solely for the purpose for which it is used, and
offers all the perfections requisite for the handling of such a volume of
business, encompassing ventilation, light, repositories for machinery, and
rooms for the various departments. The building has a frontage of
thirty-five feet and a depth of 150 feet, is built of brick, and is four
stories high, each story carefully fitted up and furnished for the
prosecution of the business in all its branches, and employing from 75 to
100 hands. Here is carried on, upon an extensive scale, the manufacture of
ladies', misses', men's and youth's hand-sewed, machine-sewed, pegged and
standard screw boots and shoes, of various styles and sizes, and with
special reference to rapidity and convenience, the factory is divided into
several departments, comprising that for the cutting of upper leather, the
cutting of sole leather, the crimping, bottoming, treeing, stitching,
finishing, packing, etc. All these operations are conducted with the
greatest skill and dexterity by competent workmen, the company
manufacturing goods to the value of $200,000 annually. The trade extends
over Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Michigan, and wherever
introduced at once gains a reputation for superior workmanship.
Watson's Paper Mills, corner of Sixteenth and Holland streets,
built and operated by H. F. Watson, are one of the most important
enterprises of Erie. The premises are finely located with double sidings
from the L. S. & M. S. and P. & E. Railroads, giving unsurpassed
facilities for receiving and shipping, and consist of a tract of land
200x450 feet in area, which is improved with buildings required in the
business of the following proportions and uses: Main building, 80x120, two
stories; machine room, 120x50; engine room, 35x35; boiler room, 40x65;
sizing room, 36x60; boiler room, 20x35; tank house 30x40; bleach house,
36x40; stock house, 40x120; warehouse, 80x40; office 21x40. these
buildings are not only substantial and convenient, but of a finish and
appearance seldom employed in works of a similar character, and with the
machinery used have cost upward of $150,000. In the spring of 1883, a
chemical works, 40x120 feet, were erected, and Mr. Watson contemplates
building a warehouse in the near future, 40x200. The machinery in use
consists in part of a 64-inch and an 94-inch double cylinder machine;
seven 1,000-pound and three 1,200-pound beating engines, seven steam
boilers, and other machinery, driven by five engines of 600 combined
horse-power. The product of the mill is building and roll manilla paper,
of which from twenty to twenty-five tons are daily manufactured, also cold
tar products and chemicals, giving employment to 75 men. Mr. Watson enjoys
a high reputation as a paper manufacturer, and his extensive facilities
are fully taxed to meet the demands of the trade.
Lovell Manufacturing Company, limited, was incorporated in 1882,
successor to M. N. Lovell, who began the business now carried on at Erie
in 1879. The company manufacture spring beds, etc., which business Mr.
Lovell established in 1881. Their factory is in the Tracy Block, on French
street, between Fifth and Sixth, where from forty to fifty hands find
steady employment. In the fall of 1883, a new factory was erected on the
corner of Thirteenth and French streets, where they own a log 125x450 feet
in size. The new buildings are as follows: One two story, 40x100; two
additional one story wings, 25x52 and 27x40 respectively, all of which are
brick; also a frame 16x20. These buildings are furnished throughout with
entire new machinery for the manufacture of wire and springs, and is the
only establishment of the kind in Erie. Twenty-five men find employment in
the new works. The company intend to erect additional buildings, and
remove their entire business to the new location. M. N. Lovell is
Chairman; W. W. Hunt, Treasurer; and A. W. Walker, Secretary of the
company, and own stores for the sale of their goods in the following
cities: New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, Buffalo, Rochester,
Albany, Brooklyn, Newark, Providence, Syracuse, New Haven, Worcester,
Scranton, Lowell, Springfield and Easton.
Marks & Meyer, merchant tailors, 806 and 808 State street, have
been in business since 1867 under the same firm name, and for the past
fourteen years at their present location. The business is divided into
several departments, each separate and distinct from the other. Two
experienced and reliable cutters and thirty skilled workmen are constantly
employed in the merchant tailoring department. Their trade in this line is
probably the most extensive in the city, and the reputation of the house
for stylish, reliable work, stands second to few in the State. In the
ready made clothing department, the assortment is fully as complete. The
stock is of their own manufacture, and every attention is paid to details
in making it up. In this department, from two to four practical cutters
are employed, and work is steadily furnished to from sixty to 100 hands.
The trade conducted is wholesale as well as retail, each branch of the
business occupying a separate portion of the building. An idea may be
gained of the extent and variety of the stock from the fact that it
represents a cash value often exceeding $100,000. The location occupied
embraces two of the handsomest and best lighted stores in the city, each
24x125 feet in area, and the first and second floors and basement are
fully taken up with stock. The house is well represented on the road, and
has an honorable representation among the trade. The copartnership
consists of Charles S. Marks and P. A. Meyer, gentlemen whose long
residence in Erie has fully identified them with the city's growth and
progress.
Baker, Ostheimer & Co., clothiers, corner of Fifth and State
streets: In 1849-50, Mr. B. Baker laid the foundation of the splendid
business which is now conducted by his sons and son-in-law. From a small
beginning, he has seen it grow to its present proportions; and to his
sound judgment and honorable business record, its success is largely due.
Over a third of a century since its foundation, it is one of the oldest
houses in the city, and under the impulse of young and active managers,
whose ambition is to lead the trade in this section, it is year by year
reaching out further for trade and season after season is making its name
and reputation more widely known. The firm occupy with their business the
handsome block on the corner of Fifth and State streets, four stories in
height, with a frontage of sixty feet on State and eighty feet on Fifth
street. The first and second floors are used as salesrooms, the remainder
of the building for manufacturing purposes. The firm makes all the goods
they handle, except a few of the cheaper grades, thus enabling them to
offer their stock to the trade with the certainty that it is carefully
cut, honestly made, and can be confidently recommended for style and
quality. They employ seven cutters, and from seventy to 125 hands in their
manufacturing department, and are represented on the road by three
energetic, capable salesman. The individual members of the present firm
are Isaac Baker, Jacob Ostheimer and Henry Baker. They assumed the
management of the affairs of the house in 1866, and by their energy and
enterprise have largely increased the business.
Mart. Maner, confectioner and baker, No. 21 West Seventh street,
began business at Erie in 1870, taking his part in the struggle for
commercial honors and success. Today he owes his attainment of the
distinctions not to any lucky hit, but to the display of the roughness,
pluck, perseverance and perfect knowledge of his work. His store is an
attractive building, three stories in height, built substantially of
brick. His store and retail department occupy the first floor, and is
26x160 feet in dimensions. The factory department occupies the basement
and third floors, while the wholesale department is conducted in the first
and second rear stories, the dimensions of all floors being alike. In the
manufacturing department, Mr. Maner employs twenty-five hands, skilled in
their business, and turns out a large quantity of manufactured goods
yearly. The stock embraces not only confections of his own make, but
imported rarities of merit, in great variety. His employment of a large
number of hands about the house and four travelers on the road makes him a
large disburser of money in wages, and his trade in New York,
Pennsylvania, and Ohio adds not a little to Erie's celebrity as a
distributing center.
Jarecki Chemical Works, east Twelfth street, near P. & E. R. R.:
Among the most recent additions to the city's industries may be noted the
Jarecki Chemical Works, which were established in the year 1880 on a plant
in the eastern portion of the city, convenient to the railway lines for
the receipt and shipment of goods, and which have since their
establishment taken a reputable position for the excellence of their
productions. The works consist of a building well adapted for their
business, and is two stories in height, 75x155 feet in dimensions. Their
machinery consists of crushers and all the accessories of this
manufacture, driven by an engine of forty-horse-power. The products of the
works consist of super-phosphates and other fertilizers, sulphate ammonia,
sal ammonia, sulphuric acid, etc., and the amount produced is constantly
increasing. Their phosphates are rapidly making their merits known and
felt in the agricultural regions of the country, and bid fair to take a
foremost place among these valuable aids to successful farming which have
become so large an article of commerce in later years. They analyze
everything they use in manufacture or sell, consequently their fertilizers
are always alike; every bag is marked with the analysis according to law,
and therefore every one knows what he buys. The company will buy all the
bones offered at highest cash price at the works. The ground bone is made
of pure bone., ground fine, and the phosphate is manufactured from bone
black, ground bone meat dissolved in acid, ammonia salt and potash, and
contains no sand, muck, dirt or adulterations of any kind. The members of
the firm are Gustav Jarecki, President of Humboldt Bank; Alfred Jarecki, a
practical and thorough chemist, and C. J. Englehart, who has charge of the
works. These gentlemen are all known in Erie as men of sterling business
qualities and as public spirited citizens.
Eclipse Lubricating Oil Company, limited, office Keystone Bank
building: In 1875, Thomas Brown started the "Erie Lubricating
Works," but in June, 1878, they were consolidated with an oil company
of Franklin, Penn., and organized under the above title. This well-known
company, manufacturers of the celebrated "Matchless Valve and
Cylinder Oil," as well as a general line of lubricating and parafine
oils, have a branch of their works at Erie, and are doing an extensive
business. The works, covering an area of nearly two acres of ground, are
located on Tenth street, near the P. & E. R. R., from which a siding
runs into the yard. The Eclipse Lubricating Oil Company manufacture all
grades of lubricating oils, of all gravities, cold tests, and adapted to
the weather and climate. They also manufacture refined oil to some extent.
A special brand upon which they have built up an extensive trade is the
"Matchless Valve and Cylinder Oil," which is warranted not to
corrode the iron or eat the packing, and to be of the best quality. It is
sold only to railroads, or through the company's special agents, and is
not handled by the trade generally. The capacity of the works at Erie is
about 100 barrels per day, giving employment to from twenty-five to thirty
men. The main works are at Franklin, Penn., where they employ about 150
men, and produce about 1,000 barrels of oil daily. The Eclipse Lubricating
Oil Company is a limited corporation, of which Thomas Brown is Chairman.
The extent of their operations, as well as the high standard maintained in
all their products, justly entitles them to the most favorable
consideration.
Ashby & Vincent, job printers, manufacturing stationers and
lithographers, 423 State street: this enterprising and well-known firm
stands at the head of their line of business in Northwestern Pennsylvania,
and possess every facility for doing fine, first class work. The
establishment contains six presses and three ruling machines, of the
latest and most improved construction, with other machinery incidental to
their business, and furnished constant employment to from thirty-five to
forty hands in the different departments. Its productions embrace
everything in the line, from the ponderous bank ledger to the pocket
memorandum book, and from a business card to the most elaborately ruled
and printed railroad stationery, besides engraving in all its branches,
lithographing and electrotyping. The house does an extensive business as
wholesale stationers, carrying a large and complete assortment of goods
included under this head; also a full line of blank books and fancy
stationery. They possess every facility not only for turning out a large
amount of work, but work of the finest description, and the annual
business aggregates a large sum. The firm is composed of J. E. Ashby and
Harry Vincent, who in 1867, founded their present business on a modest
scale, and the present proportions are due to their energy and enterprise,
as well as to the character of their work.
John C. McCrea, pork packer, corner State and Twenty-first streets:
The only house in Erie making a specialty of this business is the above,
which was founded by the present proprietor in 1880. The building occupied
is a substantial brick structure, two stories and basement, 80x140 feet in
dimensions, and is fitted up with every convenience for the rapid and
successful presentation of the business. During each season, from 5,000 to
10,000 hogs are slaughtered here, though this represents but a small
portion of the business done. Much of the stock is bought dressed, and
still more of that handled is packed and cured in the West. From ten to
fifteen men are constantly employed during the season, and the business
transacted is large and steadily increasing. The line dealt in embraces,
besides pork, the celebrated Erie brand of sugar-cured hams, lard, bacon
and dried beef. Mr. McCrea was formerly a member of the firm of McCrea
Brothers, the well-known pork packers of Cleveland, and is a gentleman
thoroughly familiar with the business in all its details. In his
enterprise he has added an important feature to the growing commercial
advantages of Erie.
Erie Lime and Cement Company, foot of French street: This
enterprise, the only one of the kind in Erie, was established in 1864 by a
number of business men, but was never incorporated. Several changes in the
company were made from time to time, until in 1867 the plant and business
became the property of H. W. Spooner and Samuel Rea. They burn the
celebrated Kelly's Island limestone, running two kilns, with a capacity of
500 bushels per day. The Keystone Plaster and Limestone Mills are also a
apart of the plant and here they grind the Canada land plaster and
limestone, fine, for fertilizing purposes. Besides these products, they
deal extensively in super-phosphates, Nova Scotia calcined plaster and
water lime, and are the agents of the Pacific Guano Company. These goods
have an established reputation, and the farmers can rely upon their
strength and freedom from impurities. The firm owns and run in the
business the schooner Julia Willard, and give employment to twelve men,
the capital employed being very large, as they own an extensive dock
property, besides the kilns and plaster mills.
Swalley & Warfel, manufacturers of soap and candles, Nos. 1119
and 1121 Peach street, are the successors of the oldest soap factory in
this portion of the State. Established in 1852, by G. F. Brevillier, it so
continued until 1871 when it came into the possession of J. W. Swalley,
who in the spring of 1883 associated with him Martin Warfel. The factory
was then on the corner of Sixth and Holland streets, but the new firm
immediately erected the present works on Peach street, and abandoned the
old location. The main building is a three-story brick, 45x100 feet in
size, with a boiler room 20x45. In July 1883, the new works were occupied,
and here seven hands find steady employment in the manufacture of soaps
and candles, the firm also handling tallow, caustic soda, soda ash, sal
soda etc., in large quantities, their markets being Erie and the oil
regions of Pennsylvania though shipping principally to the larger Eastern
cities, which illustrates the push and enterprise of the proprietors.
Erie Mantel Works, 1226 State street: this enterprise was started
in March, 1881, and is therefore one of the latest additions to the
manufacturing enterprises of Erie. The works are located for the present
at No. 1226 State street, occupying a factory 40x75 feet in dimensions,
and a show room 25x40 feet, in which is displayed many handsome specimens
of their work. All varieties of variegated marble, from Tennessee,
Virginia, the Hudson, and from Europe, are used, and under the hands of
experienced artists are carved and finished in the highest style of the
art. In marbled work, the Euclid sandstone is used, and when finished with
panels of granite set into the marbled surface and relieved by ornaments
cut into the natural stone, it would be difficult to imagine anything more
artistic in design and finish. These mantles are made to order of any size
or style required, and at prices ranging from $20 to $500. Furniture tops
are also made, and grates, English Minton tiles for hearths and
wainscoting are largely dealt in. It is the design of the company to
remove to more extensive quarters, on State street, between Ninth and
Tenth, in the spring of 1884, and largely extend their business, as their
present capacity, which is limited to the production of only one complete
mantel per day, will not supply the demand. The enterprise is in the hands
of men whose ambition is not measured by small results, and promises to
become an important addition to the business interests of the city.
F. L. Pelton, monuments, had stones, etc., No. 405 State street:
this business was established by Roderick Pelton, the father of the
present proprietor, in 1845. At his death, in 1871, E. L. Pelton became
the owner, and has conducted the business in a highly successful manner.
The found occupied is 42x165 feet in dimensions, roomy, and conveniently
appointed for the work. The buildings consist of a two-story brick front
for show room, etc., 28x28, and a shop in the rear of the 20x50 feet in
dimensions, while the works contain steam machinery for polishing
purposes. Five workmen are employed, while an elaborate stock of finished
work is always on hand. Mr. Pelton is prepared to execute marble and
granite work to order in the most artistic designs. The specimens of his
handiwork compare favorably with those produced in any other section. His
stock of imported statuary has been carefully selected, and evinces taste
and judgment. A stock of Italian and Vermont marble and Scotch and
American granites is always on hand, from which is produced headstones and
monuments of any desired style of sculpture.
M.A. Dunning's marble works No. 1227 Peach street, are the largest
and most important in the city, and he enjoys the patronage of a large
extent of country. He makes a specialty of fine cemetery work, and has
turned out some of the most beautiful, artistic and graceful designs in
this section. He also furnished marble and sandstone for building
purposes, marble mantels and grates. The yard is desirably situated, and
is convenient in every respect for the transaction of his business. The
ground occupied is 40x165 feet in dimensions, upon which are substantial
buildings. He employs ten to twelve hands, all of whom are skilled. He
makes a specialty of designing monuments to order, and has gained a wide
reputation for the high character of the productions. Many evidences of
his handiwork can be seen in the many new buildings and dwellings that
have been erected here since he established the business in 1865. He is a
large importer of Scotch granite and dealer in Italian and American
marble, having always on hand a stock estimated in value at from $6,000 to
$7,000, and also manufactures American granite monuments and headstones.
These works have a steam polishing machine for polishing granite and
marble, operated by a ten-horse-power engine. Mr. Dunning is one of the
enterprising business men of the city.
American Fusee Company, limited, was started in February, 1874, on
Twenty-first and Liberty streets, where the business was carried on till
April. 1883, when the company removed to the present location on the
corner of Seventeenth and Cascade streets. The building is a three-story
frame structure, 40x150, with an L 50x75 feet in size, and about twenty
men find steady employment in the manufacture of safety parlor and blazing
fusees. The capital stock is $200,000, and the following gentlemen are the
officers of the company: W. R. Davenport, President; John Dodge, Jr.,
Secretary and Treasurer, whose names are synonymous of enterprise,
progress and public spirit.
Erie Rubber Company, whose works are on the corner of East avenue
and Twelfth street, was organized in April, 1882, and began business the
following September. The building occupied was partially erected by the
railroad company, but has been much enlarged by its present owners. It is
a two-story frame, 40x160 feet in dimensions, furnished with new,
first-class machinery, and operated by one engine of 125-horse-power. From
twenty-five to thirty hands now find steady work in the manufacture of all
kinds of rubber goods for mechanical purposes, the mill having a capacity
of about $350,000 worth of business per annum. The company is composed of
W. H. Charles and N.J. Whitehead, who find a ready market for their goods
in every portion of the United States.
Board of Trade
This organization originally established in the year 1874, for the
bringing together in closer social and business relations the business men
of Erie has from year to year extended and increased its power for good
until now it is one of the features of the city. It is composed of the
very best men in the community, whose efforts to enhance the material
wealth of the place are apparent, from the magnificent establishments
which many of them operate and the increased business which they now
enjoy. The Board of Trade rooms are in the Reed House Block, and the
following gentlemen were its officers in 1883: George V. Maus, President;
S. E. Bacon, Treasurer; Douglass Benson, Secretary. We are indebted to Mr.
Benson for the following summary of Erie's industries, which also gives a
comparative statement of their output for the four years, ending December
31, 1882, and will prove of value as showing the growth of the city's
establishments:
INDUSTRIES
|
1879
|
1880
|
CAPITAL
|
MEN
|
PRODUCT
|
CAPITAL
|
MEN
|
PRODUCT
|
Iron
manufactures |
$1,398,000
|
987
|
$2,098,000
|
$1,435,500
|
1,167
|
$2,373,000
|
Flouring
mills |
205,000
|
44
|
700,000
|
245,000
|
48
|
900,000
|
Brass
foundries |
330,000
|
360
|
695,000
|
500,000
|
450
|
950,000
|
Car
manufactories |
740,000
|
975
|
1,520,000
|
1,045,500
|
1,050
|
1,950,000
|
Stove
manufactories |
350,000
|
287
|
363,000
|
375,000
|
312
|
398,000
|
Boots,
shoes and leather |
220,000
|
180
|
250,000
|
220,000
|
170
|
245,000
|
Oils |
75,000
|
25
|
200,000
|
75,000
|
25
|
200,000
|
Breweries
and malt houses |
875,000
|
98
|
395,000
|
400,000
|
75
|
485,000
|
Sash,
blinds, planing mills |
222,000
|
84
|
418,000
|
215,000
|
102
|
375,000
|
Pumps |
35,000
|
20
|
35,000
|
35,000
|
21
|
40,000
|
Organs |
125,000
|
116
|
275,000
|
125,000
|
120
|
300,000
|
Woodenware,
chairs, etc |
320,000
|
216
|
340,000
|
200,000
|
182
|
345,000
|
Miscellaneous
manufactories |
798,000
|
473
|
927,000
|
775,000
|
510
|
955,000
|
Totals |
$5,193,000
|
3,865
|
$8,211,000
|
$5,646,000
|
4,232
|
$9,606,000
|
|
INDUSTRIES
|
1881
|
1882
|
CAPITAL
|
MEN
|
PRODUCT
|
CAPITAL
|
MEN
|
PRODUCT
|
Iron
manufactures |
$1,728,300
|
1,618
|
$4,272,000
|
$2,397,000
|
1,714
|
$3,923,000
|
Flouring
mills |
245,000
|
67
|
1,165,000
|
250,000
|
67
|
1,215,000
|
Brass
foundries |
575,000
|
435
|
1,078,000
|
575,000
|
435
|
1,050,000
|
Car
manufactories |
1,080,000
|
1,100
|
2,075,000
|
1,025,500
|
578
|
965,500
|
Stove
manufactories |
390,000
|
307
|
440,000
|
401,000
|
338
|
564,000
|
Boots,
shoes and leather |
220,000
|
175
|
250,000
|
220,000
|
175
|
250,000
|
Oils |
75,000
|
25
|
200,000
|
75,000
|
25
|
250,000
|
Breweries
and malt houses |
445,000
|
106
|
687,000
|
537,000
|
106
|
777,000
|
Sash,
blinds, planing mills |
220,000
|
187
|
390,000
|
235,000
|
200
|
459,000
|
Pumps |
35,000
|
21
|
40,000
|
35,000
|
21
|
45,000
|
Organs |
125,000
|
115
|
225,000
|
125,000
|
120
|
225,000
|
Woodenware,
chairs, etc |
238,000
|
284
|
500,500
|
460,000
|
301
|
609,000
|
Miscellaneous
manufactories |
990,000
|
524
|
1,247,500
|
791,000
|
612
|
1,541,000
|
Totals |
$6,367,100
|
4,964
|
$12,570,000
|
$7,126,500
|
4,692
|
$11,873,500
|
The annual meeting of the Erie Board of Trade was held March 13, 1884, for
the election of officers and for hearing the Secretary's report on the
city's commerce for the years of 1883-84. Matthew R. Griswold was elected
President, George W. Starr, Vice President, and S. E. Bacon, Treasurer.
The following commercial statistics were reported: The total capital
investment in manufactures is $7,817,500, the total product of which is
$12,113,900, giving employment to 4,921 skilled workmen. The product of
iron industries is $3,532,500; flouring mills, $1,165,000; brass
foundries, $1,146,200; car manufactories, $1,650,000; stove works
$507,000; boots and shoes, $202,700; oils, $300,000; brewers, $740,000;
planing mills, $372,500; pumps, $53,000; organs, $531,000; miscellaneous,
$1,672,000, being an increase of $240,400 over the total products of last
year.
Of coal receipts, $397,932 tons were received from the Philadelphia &
Erie Railroad, and 76,680 by the Erie & Pittsburgh road. Of this
amount 339,880 tons were anthracite and 134,812 tons bituminous. The
banking capital of Erie is $1,582,000, of which $1,067,000 belongs to
national banks, and $515,000 to private and savings banks. The bank
deposits amount to $4,663,000, of which $2,222,000 represents national
banks, and $2,441,000 private and savings banks.
The grain receipts from the following ports were: Chicago, 3,604,978
bushels; Milwaukee, 265,124; Toledo, 393,349; Sandusky, 160,133; Canada
ports, 37,000. This was disposed of as follows, to New York, 663,405
bushels; to Philadelphia, 1,812,085; Baltimore, 1,470,586; New England
ports, 404,710; interior, 20,575; Erie local, 79,319.
The lumber receipts were 36,026,886 feet, of which 17,575,675 came by lake
and 18,651,161 came by the Philadelphia & Erie road.
Within the past decade, Erie has made wonderful progress as a
manufacturing point, and to-day occupies an enviable position among the
cities of Pennsylvania. Its factories are in full operation and
prospering, giving employment to mechanics and laborers from home and
abroad. The immense iron industry is the most import department of
manufacture, and is one possessing wonderful possibilities of development,
and of increasing the municipal wealth. The various other industries, as
the shoe, lumber, coal, milling, furniture, carriage, woodenware, musical
instruments, paper malting and leather, are working to their fullest
capacity. Some have recently enlarged their works and others are
contemplating the same. The merchants of the city generally do a thriving
business, the stores in many cases being mammoth, and the stocks well kept
up, while the standard of credits of all the city's establishments is
high. Erie represents socially, commercially, educationally and
religiously the best fruits and advancement of modern civilization.
|