Rock Island County, Illinois - The whole text, 1885 (part 21 of 24)

The Rockford, Rock Island & St. Louis Railroad Company began active operations shortly after the close of the war. Its aim was to build a road from Rockford to St. Louis. By the aid extended it in the counties and townships through which it passed it was completed to Rock Island in 1870. The Sterling Branch being already completed gave it a line from St. Louis to Sterling. It was never able to complete the remainder of its line. For some cause its managers were never able to make it pay expenses. In 1876 it was sold under foreclosure of mortgage and transferred to the St. Louis, Rock Island & Chicago Railroad Company, incorporated April 2t, 1876. It was soon afterwards leased by the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad Company, who now operate it as the St. Louis Division of their road.

The company has 27 miles of track in this county, and seven stations - Rock Island, Moline, Port Byron Junction, Barstow, Osborn, Joslyn and Hillsdale. Its assessed value in 1884 was $143,340.

a iK'gfl'gY the Legislature in 185 1, this great Illii§K£2P no's ral'waY was incorporated as the ' opP^ Chicago & Rock Island Rajlroad. The j®e' object of the projectors were to connect the T Great Lakes with the Mississippi by way of 1 Chicago and Rock Island, a distance of j&iz/2 miles. This road was completed in the spring of 1854, and at once took rank as one of the great lines of the country. Consequent upon the completion of this road, real-estate went up in all parts of the city of Rock Island from 25 to 100 per cent., while in some localities the increase was greater.

Improved and wild lands contiguous to the city and along the line of the road, entered a few months previous with warrants costing the purchaser from 87^ to $r.i2j^ per acre, rose to $5 and $10 per acre. The company bought their right of way into the town at a dear rate, paying four prices for the privilege of coming in with an enterprise that was to be the means of building up for them a large city. For lots 60 x 150 feet they paid an average of $800. Such is the avariciousness of man.

Upon the completion of this railroad and the entering of its trains into the town, its whole aspect was changed. From a quiet river village on the banks of the Mississippi, it became an energetic, bustling city. The steam whistle is the most stimulating sound to man. The presence of the locomotive arouses the dormant energies, and sets on foot enterprises that otherwise might sleep for ages. It changes the face of society, and moves the whole world forward. Railroads create business and builds up cities that otherwise would never had an existence. While Rock Island was a village before the iron horse entered its precincts, and would undoubtedly have continued to be a small trading country town, yet it must be admitted that the advent of this railroad gave to it an impetus that started it ahead, and has been a most potent factor to its growth and development.

The C, R. I. & P. was opened for business in Rock Island, Feb. 22, 1854. On June 6, 1854, a grand excursion was had here to celebrate its completion. Five steamboats and two special passenger trains came in loaded. The crowd was tremendous. Speeches were made, a grand display of fire -works given in the evening, and everybody had a jolly, good time.

This road passes through some of the finest agricultural country in the State, the products of which either come to Rock Island or go to Chicago. In 1866 this railroad was consolidated with the Mississippi & Missouri Railway Company, under the name of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway Company, which name it now bears. In June, 1869, its line was completed to Council Bluffs, where it connected with the then newly completed Union Pacific Railway. From the date of its completion to the Missouri River it has been a favorite route of the travelers and tourists to the Pacific Slope, and also to the Territories. Since that time it has expanded, by consolidation with other lines, and by building branches into Iowa and Missouri, from 550 miles to a great railway operating some 1,400 miles of road, and having for its termini the cities of Chicago, Peoria, Keokuk, Council Bluffs, Des Moines, Atchison, Leavenworth and Kansas City. Its freight now embraces the product of the Eastern and Western States and Territories, as well as that of Europe and the empires of the Old World. This company also opened a new route to the Northwest, known as the "Albert Lea Route," extending to Minneapolis, where it connects with the Northern Pacific and the St. Paul and Manitoba Railroads.

This route traverses some of the finest scenery in the country, and takes the traveler to many of the most noted resorts for health and pleasure in the United States. The Chicago & Rock Island Railroad has had a rich country, and an extensive commerce to support it, and from its inception it has been prosperous. From the running of the first train up to the present time, the management of this road has been such as to secure and hold the sympathy of its patrons. This has been accomplished by establishing the principle of equal and exact justice to all, and by giving to the people as far as in human power lay, immunity from dangers incident to travel. The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway has had an able management. For many years Mr. R. R. Cable has been its President and General Manager, and Mr. E. St. John has been its General Ticket and Passenger Agent. This very popular and efficient railroad official - Mr. E. St. John - lias recently been promoted to the position of Assistant General Manager, while he still holds his former position. So long a continuation of the road under the same management speaks well for the company and also for its officers.

The personnel of this railroad has been highly commendable. Their agents and conductors have been obliging, their engineers skillful and faithful, and their brakemen prompt. The Superintendents have also been scrupulous and exact, training the men under them to business habits that command the respect and confidence of the people.

The aim of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Company has been to locate its lines and establish its connections so as to reach its objective points with the greatest facility and in the most desirable manner. From its completion of its first track to the Mississippi to the present time, when it operates over 1,400 miles of road, - a great portion of which is spanned by double parallel lines of steel, - the Rock Island Company has performed its duty to the State, and has been a potential factor in the development and civilization of the great West.

HIS railroad originated as a Henry County railroad enterprise, being fathered by Amos Gould and Orrin E. Page of Cambridge. These gentlemen procured a charter in 1867 for the road, and by the middle of 187 1 trains were running over it. The first train was run over the road July 8, 187 1. It passes through a fine agricultural country, and also some rich coal-fields. Though not one of the important railroads entering the county, it is a valuable line to the people along its route.

HE Ruck Island & MercerCounty Railroad Company was organized under the general * law in May, 1876, and was constructed Sc between that time and the first day of December following. It is 22 miles in length, and passes through the townships of Rock Island' Black Hawk, Bowling and Edgington. It runs on the track of the Rock Island from Peoria to Milan. The stations are Rock Island, Milan, Taylor Ridge and Reynolds. The assessed value of the property in 1884 was $75,638.

^:Rj3; HE Chicago, Milwaukee a St. Paul Railway ^§|||i Company operate over 4,000 miles of rail- * road. In 1870 its line was completed to Rock Island, but was then known as the Western Union Railroad. The Western Union Railroad Company was organized in January, 1866, by the purchase of a portion of the Racine & Mississippi Railway Company - a company chartered in Wisconsin in 1854, and subsequently consolidated with the Northern Illinois Railroad Company. The . consolidations were made under the act approved Feb. 21, 1863, in the State of Illinois, and a similar act approved in the State of Wisconsin, April 1, 1863. In this county it uses the track of the C, B. & Q.

from Port Byron Junction to Rock Island, making its main track in the county but about ten miles. Its stations here are Cordova, Port Byron, Rapids City, Hampton, Watertown, Port Byron Junction, Moline and Rock Island. In 1884 its property within this county was assessed at $T5o,6o3.

AVING treated under separate and general headings many of the important top- W ics of the county's history, there yet remain other items of no little interest and value. These, al- though valuable and interesting, are >& not of sufficient significance to justify a general or ornamental heading for each. The reader will nevertheless find them of an interesting nature and well worth the reading. There are historical sketches <>f roads and bridges, the poor farm, the topography of the county. Black Hawk's Watch-Tower, etc., given in this article.

OR several years after the first settlement C of the county, the people depended upon ' '» rope ferries for crossing the streams that could not be forded. The first order made by the County Commissioners for bridges was in August, 1835. On petition of a number of citizens of the county, proposals were asked for the construction of two bridges, one " at the head of the rapids, commonly called the mill seat," the other " across a creek or slough that empties into the Mississippi opposite Campbell's Island near Mr. Burtis's.'' Both were to be of wood. At the same term of court a petition of a number of the citizens of Rock Island County was received "to build a bridge over the slough that passes through the seat of justice, or our county seat." On this petition the following record was made: "The Court are of the opinion that proposals may be handed into the Clerk to build the said bridge. The bridge is to be of frame, and the upper part to be of good and substantial plank, and the Court to reserve the right to accept of the plan or not. If the plan is approved of and cosidered low enough it will be received ; if not it will be offered to the lowest bidder."

At the September, 1 S35, term the Court agreed " to let out a contract for building the bridge across the swamp back of the town of Stephenson." The bridge to be constructed was to be 160 feet in length and 20 feet wide. After giving the plans, proposals for building were asked for, the contract to be let on the 19th of September. Propesals for building the bridges across the mill seat and also the one opposite Campbell's Island were also advertised to be let on the same day. The construction of the bridge across the swamp at Stephenson was let to Michael Bartlett for $760. The one opposite Campbell's Island was let to John W. Spencer for $185. Martin W. Smith secured the contract for the third bridge.

Other small bridges were built from time to time by the county, and in 1843 the General Assembly passed an act authorizing the Commissioners to construct a bridge across Rock River. Previous to this time, and in fact for some years after, Rock River was supposed to be a navigable stream, and bridges were therefore forbidden as they would obstruct navigation. Pursuant to the provisions of the act authorizing the construction of free bridges across the river, the Commissioners' Court appropriated $1,500 for a bridge from the north shore to Vandruff's Island, provided enough money could be secured from other sources to complete it within 18 months. John \V. Spencer. N. B. Buford and Lemuel Andrews were appointed agents to receive proposals for the building of the bridge. Patrick Gregg and Joseph Knox were appointed agents to receive notes payable to County Commissioners from those subscribing in aid of its construction. The contract for building the bridge was subsequently let to C. H. Case. It appears that he did not fulfill his contract for some reason, and the agents appointed to contract were instructed to bring suit for non-fulfillment. They were also instructed to make a contract for the completion of the bridge. Mr. Case settled the damage done the county by the payment of $448.49. J. Knox and Geo. Mixter gave notice that they would not pay their subscription for the building of the bridge, doubtless for the reason the county had failed to comply with the terms of the subscription.

The contract for completing the bridge was awarded to J. and R. L. Reselrough, but that firm were delayed in completing it, so that the county gave notice that suit would be brought against them for damages. The bridge was finally completed ; but in consequence of the great expense necessary to keep it in repair, as well as the others crossing Rock River at this point, it was in September, 1852, transferred to the Rock Island & Camden Plank Road Company, an association organized for the purpose of constructing and operating a plank road between the two places. The Plank Road Company agreed to keep the bridge in good order, but soon found it was not a paying investment and gladly transferred their interests to the city of Rock Island, for the sum of $25,000. An act of the Legislature was passed and approved Feb. 23, 1859, legalizing the transfer. There are now four bridges across the various branches of the river, owned and controlled by the city, which requires a small toll on crossing.

[LOR several years after the organization of the county a license was required of all merchants. The first granted by the County Commissioners' Court was in Septem- ^^-v ber, 1833, to Eleazer Parkhurst. The license t permitted him to " vend, sell or retail, at public auction or private sale, any goods, wares or merchandise." Thos. F. Reid was also granted a license for the same purpose at the same term, upon payment of $5.

At the June term, in 1834, George Davenport was granted a license as a merchant upon payment of $10. It is presumed that Mr. Davenport did a much heavier business, or carried a much larger stock than his competitors, as he was charged double the license fee.

3? HE poor ye have with you always," was was spoken by the Savior of the world f^ more than 1800 years ago. It is as true ^feV to-day as then, and doubtless will be till the end of time. The first order in relation to this class was made in October, 1835. It appears that Wm. Brewster was thrown upon the county for support, and Michael Bartlett was authorized to contract with some person to take care of him. Mr. Brewster survived but a few months and was buried by the county, - "only a pauper that nobody owns."

In 1839, the County Commissioners thought it advisable to appoint an overseer of the poor for the entire county, the number of persons requiring assistance from the county being on the increase. Joseph R. Taylor was appointed by the Board at its December term.

In September, 1841, Miles W. Conway was appointed to succeed Mr. Taylor. He served until December, 1844, when he resigned and Thomas Bidderson was appointed his successor. Mr. Bidderson was empowered to enforce the vagrant act i against all those who were liable to become a county I charge. In September, 1850, Marcus B. Osbom was appointed to succeed Mr. Bidderson. Mr. Osbom was succeeded by C. B. Knox, who in turn gave place to S. S. Guyer, in December, 1852.

In January, 1853, the County Court purchased of the heirs of Rinnah Wells a house and tract of land in and near the city of Rock Island, to be used for f paupers, paying therefor the sum of $1,200. Jonathan Whitman was appointed agent to keep the /% poor-house, at a salary of $150 per year, with $1.25 i=i per week for each pauper.

In June, 1854, B. I. Cobb was appointed Overseer 1 of the Poor. In March, 1855, Drs. Brackett and Bulkley made a proposition to give medical attendance to all paupers within eight miles of the city of Rock Island for $roo per year, which proposition was accepted. Heretofore any physician who might be called attended to the wants of the poor.

Wm, Sanderson was appointed in March, 1S56, at a salary of $150 per year for services in keeping the poor-house, and allowed $1.50 per week for boarding paupers. Dr. Samuel K. Sharp was appointed County Physician.

In January, 1838, a resolution was adopted, setting forth that the county had been wronged by persons presenting bills for the care of paupers ; and as a county poor-house had been purchased and was sustained at considerable cost, and which was large enough to hold all the paupers of the county, therefore no bills of like character would herealter be paid, unless accompanied by an affidavit that the poor relieved could not be sent to the poor-house at the time such assistance was rendered.

To prevent non-resident paupers from becoming a permanent charge on the county, it was unanimously resolved at the June term of the Board of Supervis- ors in 1858, to authorize their being sent to their friends, wherever they might reside. The sum of $100 was appropriated for that purpose. This action has generally been continued year by year.

In June, i860, T. J. Robinson, J. A. Boyer and John M. Wilson were appointed a committee to make inquiries and report upon the pauper question. They reported that the expense of keeping the paupers of the county was constantly on the increase ; that in 1839 they had cost upwards of $6,000; that the county poor-house was too limited; and recommended the sale of the house and the purchase of a farm of not less than 120 acres, to be known as the poor farm, where the paupers of the county could be kept and where they could assist in their own support. John M. Wilson, M. A. Swiler, Wesley Hanna and Peter Demoss were appointed a committee to examine different localities for a farm and to ascertain on what terms the properly then owned could be sold. The committee, at the September session of the Board, reported that they had arranged to purchase a farm in Coal Valley [now Rural], consisting of 180 acres, for $3,000. The old poor-house they recommended to be sold at public auction. The report was adopted and recommendation concurred in. At the March term, in 1861, the Board authorized the construction of a house at a cost not exceeding $3,000.

Wm. Sanderson served as Superintendent of the County Poor-House until September, 1864, when Wm. S. Bailey was appointed, at a salary of $800 per year. In September, 1 869, the Board passed a very complimentary resolution with reference to Mr. Bailey for his kind treatment of the poor placed under his care, and for his excellent management of the farm.

At the August, 1873, term of the Board, the committee on poor-farm were instructed to erect a building adjoining the one in use, for the use of the warden, the cost of the building not to exceed $3500. The building authorized was constructed, but still there was not room. On the 5th of May, 1880, a committee was appointed to ascertain what more should be done. At the July term, in 1880, the committee reported, recommending the erection of a two-story and basement brick building, together with a boiler house. These were completed in 1881. At this meeting, a memorial was adopted, praying the State to make provisions for the incurable insane at the expense of the county. The co-operation of other counties was asked for to procure the passage of an act of the General Assembly to this end.

HE General "Assembly of the State of Illinois, in January, 1S53, granted a charter for the construction of a bridge across the «P Mississippi River between Rock Island City and Davenport, granting the right of way across the island, then supposed to be public domain. The bridge was built, though efforts were made to prevent it on the ground that the island was not public domain.* It was constructed across the island about one-half mile from the lower end. As this interfered greatly with the plans of the Government for the construction of a great arsenal at this point, a Board of Commissioners was appointed to whom should be referred the respective claims of the Government and the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad Company. A plan was finally fixed upon which would satisfy the requirements of the railroad company and the United States. This plan was drawn up and approved by Gen. Rodman and the officers of the railroad company. The main features of the plan were that the railroad company should give up their old right of way across the island and remove their track and bridges ; that a new bridge should be built at the extreme w-est end of the island, the cost of which should be borne jointly by the railroad company and the United States ; and that the railroad company should have a right of way over that bridge and across the west end of the island. The bridge and track across the island were to be so constructed as to fulfill the requirements of the railroad company and be out of an arsenal railroad with the railroad company's track,^' and fulfill the requirements of the arsenal in this respect. The recommendations were approved by the Chief of Ordnance and the Secretary of War, and Congress asked to pass the necessary legislation. An act for the purpose was passed and approved June 27, 1866, and several amendatory acts were passed, and the present magnificent bridge in due time constructed by the general Government, the , railroad company paying one-half the expenses. It was completed in 1872, and is 1,550 feet and 6 inches long, divided into five spans and one draw. The superstructure of the main bridge is a double system Whipple truss with vertical main posts, and has two dei ks. The wagon road is on the lower and the railroad on the upper deck. The clear height between the wagon road and the upper deck is 12 feet, 6 inches, and the clear height between the rails of '. the railroad and the top bracing is 17 feet. The foot walks are on the outside of the side chords.

N a square reserved for that purpose when at the village of Stephenson (now Rock Island) was platted, stands the Court-House, Circuit and County Clerk's offices and jail. The block is bounded by Fourteenth and Fifteenth Streets, and Second and Third Ave-

The Court-House stands on Third Avenue, in the center. It is a two-story brick structure, with a central tower or cupola, while nearer Third Avenue it fronts toward the north on Second Avenue. In April, 1836, a contract was entered into with Jonah H. Case to furnish 200,000 brick for the purpose, and in June following the contract for building was let to Samuel Smith for $ro,5oo. The building was completed in due time and yet serves the purpose for which it is built, though a few improvements have been made.

The jail is on the southwest corner of the square, facing Third Avenue. It is a substantial structure of brick and stone, and was erected in 1857, at v cost of $60,000. For a number of years the offices of the Circuit and County Clerk were in this building, but at present it is only occupied by the Sheriff. In addition to the jail proper it has the jailor's residence. But this was not the first one erected.

The first jail in Rock Island County is spoken of in the following order made at the October, 1835, term of the County Commissioners' Court :

" Will be let to the lowest bidder, the 20th of October, a jail to be two-story high, 22 feet square from the outside to the outside. The foundation to be laid the whole size of the building with good, sound white-oak timber, hewed T2 inches square, laid close together, then a good white-oak floor laid transversely on said timber, planked with two-inch-plank, spiked down with spikes iy£ inches square and six inches long, and five spikes to every square foot. The lowest story is to be 16 feet square in the clear, to be built with solid white-oak timber, one foot thick, leaving a space between the two walls of one foot, and that to befilled in with hewn timber stands ing upright, the cornices to be dove-tailed, the first * story to be eight feet high. Four lights, one at each J side, barred with inch-square bar-iron substantially c fastened in the walls with not more than one inch space between each bar, two sets of bars, one on the inside and one on the outside, in the middle of the logs, and the said bars to be fastened into a bar of iron and pass through into the logs four inches. The floor of the upper story is to be laid the whole size of the building; the floor to be the same as the lower floor, with a trap-door in themiddle ; the width of the door to be two and a half feet wide and three feet long ; the door to be made double, of good oak plank one-half inch thick, spiked together with onehalf-inch square spikes, five inches long and five to the square foot, well clinched on both sides, to be covered on both sides with sheet-iron one-eighth of an inch thick, spiked on with three spikes above described to the square foot ; to be hung with substantial strap hinges and a strong double-bolted iron stock-lock fastened to the same. The upper story to be seven feet high, with hewed logs one foot thick ; the floor to be of timber a foot thick, with an outside door in the upper story, two and a half feet wide and five and a half feet high, made same as the trapdoor, with platform and steps and hand-railing; the whole to be covered with a shingle roof; three windows the same as the windows to the lower story, except one set of bars only ; all of the logs to be fitted close. The whole of the work to be done in a workmanlike manner; the jail to be completed by the [oth of April next.

A contract was entered into between the County Commissioners and John W. Spencer, by which the latter agreed to build the jail according to the plans and specifications for the sum of $745, one-third payable in advance, and the remainder on completion and acceptance of the work.

I OCK ISLAND County is of a peculiar shape. Extending along the Mississippi for 60 miles, it has that river for its western boundary. On the north and east it is bounded by Whiteside and Henry, and on the south by Mercer County. In width the county is from 5 to 17 miles, though it gradually tapers to a point on the northeast. The peculiar topography of the county renders it strikingly beautiful, and it is no wonder that the red men, who have an eye for beauty in nature, should have chosen it for their home. In reference to the beauty of the scenery, Gov. Reynolds, in his " Life and Times," says :

"The scenery about Rock Island is not surpassed by any in the whole length of the Mississippi. It seems as though nature had made an effort in forming this beautiful and picturesque country. Rock Island itself presents a grand and imposing appearance, rising out of the waters of the Mississippi a solid rock with many feet elevation. It is several miles long and three-fourths of a mile wide. The rocks are covered with a fertile soil. The river washes around its base with a rapid current of pure and limpid water; and Rock River, a few miles south, is seen in the distance, forcing its way with great rapidity over the rocky rapids into the Father of the Waters. The country around is interspersed with beautiful groves of timber, which give to the scene a sweetness and a beauty rarely equaled. The blue hills in the distance, directing the course of the river, are seen on the north and south to rise with gentle slopes from the water to considerable elevations, and the valley between, embracing the river, is some miles in extent, presenting a variety of surface and beauty of landscape never surpassed."

The picture by Gov. Reynolds is not overdrawn. The grand sweep of the Mississippi, the bold bluffs and lovely valleys do form a scene surpassingly beautiful. Ascending the high table- land which forms the divide between Rock River and the Mississippi, the valleys on both sides, with the cities of Rock Island and Davenport, are brought into view. From " Black Hawk's Watch -Tower," a bold bluff which arises abruptly from Rock River, where it is said that Black Hawk, the noted Indian Chief, watched the troops sent against him by Gov. Reynolds as they deployed through the valley, can be seen a scope of country that is beautiful indeed. The whole valley is visible as far as the eye can reach, while upon the opposite shore is the village of Milan, the intervening islands being covered with bluffs at Cordova rise abruptly from a sandy plain, and following the course of the Mississippi River are very broken and rough. At Moline and Rock Island the bluffs recede from the river for some distance, striking Rock River at Milan, continuing up that river several miles, and drawing away from it leave a low, alluvial bottom. The hills and ravines are usually covered with a scattered growth of timber and brush. Pleasant Valley is the only considerable depression in this elevated plateau, and, though small, contains some good farm lands. The alluvial bottoms, when dry enough to cultivate, make good corn lands, and the wet portions good meadows. That portion of the county lying south of Rock River is also greatly diversified, having bottom lands, hilly barrens and rolling upland prairies, the latter being highly productive.

The Mississippi River, as already said, forms the southern and western boundary of the county, and on its banks, lying within this county, are the cities of Rock Island and Moline and the villages of Cordova, Port Byron, Rapids City, Hampton, Water/town and Andalusia. Rock River is the next greatest watercourse. It strikes the county in township 19, range 3 east, and pursuing a southerly and westerly course it empties into the Mississippi about two miles south of Rock Island. Milan is the only village on this river in this county. Several small streams have their rise in the county and are tributary to the larger ones. Of these Copperas and Mill Creek are the most important.

Coal has been discovered in all parts of the county, and several mines are extensively worked. Limestone abounds and potter's clay is also found and worked to advantage. Altogether, Rock Island County is favorably situated, notwithstanding its long stretch on the Mississippi. With coal, stone and fine farming land, riches lie at the door of every citizen.

Bi N agricultural society was organized Feb. 22, T853, the first in the county, and was called the Rock Island County Agricultural Society. It continued to hold exhibitions for many years, but finally stranded. In 187 1 the society was re-organized, and grounds were purchased about two miles south of the city of Rock Island, on the road leading to Milan. About 40 acres were enclosed, and the grounds were all well fitted up for exhibitions. For several years the exhibitions attracted large crowds, and gave good satisfaction ; but misfortune again overtook the society, and it suspended operations. At present there are two associations in the county, one near Hillsdale, and the other in Coe Township. Annual exhibitions are held by each society.

N the 10th day of January, 1866, an Old Settlers' Society was formed at Rock Island, composed of the pioneers of the county. L&' Annual meetings are held on the 1st Monday

On the organization of the society Hon. Bailey Davenport presented it with a cane for the use of the presiding officer, made from wood from the old Barrel House, built by Davenport and Farnam. On its gold head is a place for the name and date of election of each president. Twenty men have filled the office to the present time. The names are given in the order in which they served: Patrick Gregg, John W. Spencer, Jacob Norris, Lucius Wells, John Eby, John A. Boyer, David Hawes, William Bell, A. K. Philleo, W. E. Brooks, Isaac Negus, James Taylor, Elton C. Cropper, Frazer Wilson, N. Belcher, Charles Laflin, Adolphus Dunlap, Daniel Mosher, E. P. Reynolds, John Lusk.

the first year of Rock Island's county existence, but two marriage licenses were issued. In 1834 there were also but two. This number was increased to four in 1S35. The number now amounts to about 300 a year. The following comprise those issued the first three years :

James L. Burtis and Angelina Beardsley, July 13, 1833, by John W. Spencer, County Commissioner. Benjamin Goble and Barbara Vandrnff, Aug. 27,

ROM the abstract of assessments for 1885, on file in the office of the County Clerk, jp?^ the following items are gleaned : There j^2 are in the county 212,519 acres of improved ' land, and of unimproved 52,578 acres, valued at$3,o45,5o8. Improved town lots, 5,893 ; unimproved, 2,500 ; total value, $2,875,675. Of horses there were 7,956 ; cattle, 21,716; mules and asses, 387; sheep, 2,494; hogs, 25,401 ; steam engines, 76; fire and burglar-proof safes,. 157 ; billiard tables, 65; carriages and wagons, 3,354; watches and clocks, 1,839; sewing and knitting machines, 2,946 ; pianos, 504; melodeons and organs, 648. Total value of personal property, $1,867,842.

picturesque, is that known as Black Hawk's ?Wjh Watch-Tower, lying south of the city. The t& Watch-Tower is shown in the view of Hon. I Bailey Davenport's property on pages 196-7. The following sketch is abridged from an interesting description of the Watch- Tower by Hon. T. A. Armstrong. It stands immediately on the north branch of Rock River, and about half a mile up that river from the upper end of ancient Saukenuk. At the lower end of the promontory, near the north bank of Rock River, and close to the upper end of Saukenuk the Chippiannock, or Silent City of the Dead, of the Sauks was located.

Unlike the great number of Indian nations of their time, they buried their dead in the ground. The spot where their burial ground was located is on the lower point of the promontory, and some 80 feet above the level where Saukenuk stood. Then denuded of timber, it is now thickly studded with trees, many of whose varieties are never found elsewhere, except in bottom land. Thousands upon thousands of their dead repose here without stake or stone to

Among the many wonders of this truly wonder-land, this grand old tower is among the most wonderful. With the exception of the rock under this tower, and extending up some 400 yards above, there are no sandstone within many miles. Add to this the fact that it is located on a peninsula, whose soil was largely formed from the driftings and deposits of vegetable matter of these two rivers, and the promontory of which this tower is a part was formed and created in the same way, whose soil is rich as can be, the great query is, how came these sandstone and mineral deposits there? by what freak of mother nature was this hoary old rock deposited on this peninsula! It is one of nature's secrets, to be guessed at, but never satisfactorily solved, unless that we admit that this land, with its rich mineral and rock deposits, was there before the birth of the mighty Mississippi, whose waters played antics with its surface, and left it in its present form and shape. It is at least a subject of wonder and speculation.

The apex of this Watch-Tower is but a higher elevation of the promontory, and accessible by horse railroad, and embraces an area of about a quarter of an acre.

The fine trees which formerly grew here could not withstand the incessant tramping of the feet of the multitude of visitors hither, and gradually died and fell into decay, and have finally been removed, leaving not even a stump or root to show where they stood. Though used by the Sauks as the r signal and lookout station for over a century prior to their expulsion from Illinois, their soft-moccasined feet did not affect these trees; and when the Indians left, in i83t, this tower was well studded with these 111011- archs of the forest, in whose tops the Indians had constructed platforms for the accommodation of their sentinels, one or more of whom was ever on duty here. These platforms were made of poles, laid from one large, nearly horizontal limb to another, closely beside each other, so as to form a substantial platform. Perched up among the high branches of these oak trees, about 200 feet above the river's surface at their feet, their faithful lynx-eyed sentinels held their stations from early dawn to dewy eve, and from dewy eve to early morn, with eagle eyes ever on the alert to note everything that transpired within the scope of their vision. To the east he could trace Rock River for 12 miles. To the south his vision extended over the bluff, away over the prairies. West of the lookout stood Saukenuk, which extended north nearly to the Mississippi. Up and down Rock River, away over the tree tops, hill and bluff, far over the widespread prairies and valley, their vision took in every moving object, ready to signal the city everything of danger or interest, as well as the return of their hunting or war parties, and the approach of friends.

They had a regular system of telegraphy. The Watch-Tower was their battery and machine; signal lights their electric wires. This is no fiction, but an absolute reality. By the use of fires and smoke upon this elevated spot, which could be seen, especially at night, for a hundred miles on either side, these Indians communicated news with the rapidity of electricity.

Black Hawk's description of this singular rock and locality is as follows ; " Our village was situated on the north side of Rock River, at the foot of the rapids, on a point of land between Rock River and the Mississippi. In front a prairie extended to the Mississippi, and rear a continued bluff gently ascended from the prairie. On its highest peak our Watch- Tower was situated, from which we had a fine view for many miles up and down the Rock River, in every direction. * * * This tower, to which my name has been applied, was a favorite resort, and was frequently visited by me, where I could sit and smoke my pipe and look with wonder and pleasure at the grand scenes that were presented by the sun's rays, even across the mighty water. On one occasion a Frenchman, who had been making his home in our village, brought his violin with him to the tower to play and dance for the amusement of a number of our people who had assembled there, and while dancing with his back to the cliff accidentally fell over it, and was killed by the fall. The Indians say that always at the same time of the year soft strains of the violin can be heard near that spot. On either side of the bluff we had our corn-field, extending about two miles up, parallel with the larger river, where they joined those of the Foxes, whose village was on the same stream, opposite the lower end of Rock Island, and three miles distant from ours. The land around our village, which remained unbroken, was covered with blue-grass, which furnished excellent pasture for our horses. Several springs poured out of the bluff near by, from which we were well supplied with good water. The rapids of Rock River furnished us with an abundance of excellent fish, and the land being fertile, never failed to produce good crops of corn, beans, pumpkins and squashes; we always had plenty. Our children never cried from hunger; neither were our people in want. Here our village stood more than a hundred years, during all of which time we were the undisputed possessors of the Mississippi Valley from Wisconsin to the Portage des Sioux, near the mouth of the Missouri, being about 700 miles in length."

Hon. Bailey Davenport, of the city of Rock Island, is the owner of the greater portion of the land whereon Saukenuk stood, including Black Hawk's Watch Tower, and has constructed a horse railway leading from the city of Rock Island to the Watch Tower, on which he has erected a neat building on the Swiss cottage plan, with wide porches on the north and south sides for the accommodation of the large number of visitors to this historic place, where he who would for a short time withdraw from the dust, smoke and noise of the crowded, busy streets of the city may seek rest and repose beneath the green shades of God's umbrellas - the trees - and snuff the fresh, pure air of heaven, laden with the perfumes of the meadows and glades. He has named the building Black Hawk's Watch Tower Pavilion. Surrounding it are long tables and rustic seats, spread over the lawns to accommodate picnic parties and serve them with ice cream and other refreshments except ardent spirits. The latter is strictly prohibited on the tower. The pavilion with its large rooms is well kept ; and it can be made a very agreeable home, and that, too, at reasonable prices - a quiet retreat, away from the busy haunts, where you can enjoy the pure air and beautiful scenery to your heart's content. It is, indeed, one of the most lovely summer resorts in the State. See views on pages 196-7.

TUATED upon the Mississippi midway between St. Paul and St. Louis, and opposite the historic island from which it derives its name, is the well known and beautiful city of Rock Island. Its location has already been described in a previous part of this work, and its beauty has been praised by every one that has visited the spot since Marquette and Joliet descended the river in 1673. On the organization of the county, almost opposite the lower end of the island stood the log house of John Barrel, which had been erected a few years previous by Russell Farnam and George Davenport. The County Commissioners agreed upon this point as the proper location of the county seat and called it Farnamsburg, thus honoring one of the original proprietors of the place. Farnamsburg continued to be the county seat until 1835, when the commissioners who had been appointed by the Legislature met and selected a point a little further down as the county seat and named it Stephenson.

Chas. R. Bennett, at that time County Surveyor, was ordered by the County Commissioners to survey and plat the new town, which he accordingly did, the plat being recorded July 10, 1835. The plat is certified to by Joseph Conway, Clerk of the County Commissioners' Court. The plat comprised 20 blocks in addition to the public square in which the court-house now stands. The lots were laid out 80 feet front by 150 feet deep. The northwest fractional quarter of section 35, on which the town was laid out, was entered by the County Commissioners for the purpose of a county seat May n, 1836, at the land office in Galena.

In March, 1841, the General Assembly of the State passed an act incorporating and changing the name of the town to that of Rock Island. By this act the boundaries of the town were made to include " all that portion of land contained within the limits of the plat of the town of Stephenson, and all the additions thereto, as of record in the Recorder's office in the county of Rock Island." The following additions had then been made: Thompson & Wells' Addition, April 5, 1836; Spencer & Case's Addition, May 17, 1836; Jones, Guernsey & Beardsley's Addition, Oct. 22, 1836. About 70 additions have since been made to the city, extending its limits to about four square miles, or a mile and a quarter in in average width by about three and a half miles in length. Its eastern boundary coincides with the western corporate limits of the city of Moline.

In the first issue of the Rock Island Banner, in an article describing Stephenson (Rock Island), the editor said : " Four years ago there was but one house in the place. It now contains about 175 neatly built houses, and 600 inhabitants, 7 stores, 3 taverns, 3 groceries, 2 saddle and harness shops, 2 cabinet shops, r cooper shop, 1 tinning shop, 1 watchmaker, 1 pottery, 3 physicians and 4 lawyers, and a

An advertisement in the first issue gives notice that " Messrs. A. and B. J. Vancourt, formerly of Pennsylvania," kept the Rock Island House, " lately occupied by David Hawes, Esq."

The Trustees for the municipal corporation were Lemuel Andrews, William Moore, George W. Lynde, Harrison Boggess and William Frizzel. L. Andrews was President; H. G. Reynolds, Clerk; Jonathan Buffum, Treasurer ; John A. Boyer, Constable; and Zachariah Cook, Street Commissioner. Advertisements appear from H. G. Reynolds, attorney -at-law ; Lee & Chamberlain, stoves, tin, etc. ; T. F. Cauffman, house and lot for sale ; Haviland & Gregory, druggists; John S. Miller, groceries, dry goods, argicultural implements, etc. ; H. Naylor & Company, dry goods; J. M. & E. Moore, groceries, provisions, etc.; Andrews & McMaster," general store ; Silas Reed, physicia.i ; and from James Copp, offering a house and lot for sale.

In looking over the files of the Banner, many interesting items are noticed in relation to the village of Stephenson. In the issue of Sept. 19, 1839,1s a call for a Whig meeting, at the court-house, to choose delegates to a State Convention. It is signed by D. G. Garnsey, R. H Kinney, G. Powers, J. Conway, John S. Miller, B. F. Barrett, H. H. Beardsley, T. F. Cauffman, Silas Reed, C. A. Garnsey, George Myres Wm. T. Brasher, John Wilson, M. W. Conway, Win. E. Franklin, George Davenport, Thomas Bentley and J. A. Boyer. Joseph Conway, Samuel Smith and John G. Powars were chosen delegates to Springfield. This is said to have been the first party convention held in the county.

Hotels. - Thomas Bently, Sr., Eagle Hotel, Buffalo Street, near ferry landing; Rock Island House, A, & B. J. Vancourt, corner Eagle and Illinois Streets ; Rock Island Hotel, Jonathan Buffum, near courthouse; Orleans, between Buffalo and Elk.

In the issue of Oct. 24, 1840, is a double-column notice, in large, full-faced type, surmounted by an eagle, and signed by Lemuel Andrews, George Mixter and Robert McGrew, Democratic Central Committee of Rock Island County, calling a great massmeeting of the people of Rock Island, Henry and Mercer Counties at Rock Island - the last grand rally of the campaign - October 30, a twhich J. Knox, J. B. Wells and H. G. Reynolds were advertised to speak. A report of the meeting is- published in the succeeding issue, signed John Buford, President, H. Waggoner, Secretary.

In the issue of Oct. 17, 1839, among the new advertisements is a call for a meeting of the members of the Rock Island Mutual Fire Insurance Company, signed by Lemuel Andrews, Joseph Knox and P. Gregg: November 7, of L. F. Sanders, general store; of Bowen & Gray, cabinet-makers wanted ; Swartwout & Hoffman, carriage, wagon and plow factory ; November 28, an advertisement of L. Andrews and J. W. Drury, Assignees of David Hawes; of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Gerrard, school ; of M. L. Atkinson, school; of George T. Bond, new store and newgoods; of the Stephenson Lyceum, signed by W. E. Franklin, for the election of officers; and also the marriage notice of George L. Davenport, Nov. 20, 1839, by Rev Father Michelli, in St. Anthony's Chapel, Davenport, to Miss Sarah G. Clark, of Cincinnati.

On the issue of Jan. 9, 1840, is a notice of a discussion before the Stephenson Lyceum, of the following question: " Under the existing circumstances, ought the present system of internal improvement in this State to be entirely abandoned ?' Affirmative - P. Gregg, William A. Boyer, Robert McGrew, Sr. Negative - J. W. Drury, J. H. Waggoner and William Frizzell. It was decided in the negative.

In the issue of January r6, tS4o, two columns of proceedings of a meeting, held on the 8th, at the Rock Island House, for the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the battle of New Orleans. It seems to have been participated in by the people from all parts of the county. George Mixter was the orator. In the same number is another Lyceum question: " Is legislation calculated to promote the cause of temperance in our country?" Affirmative - M. L. Atkinson, J. B. Wells, J. Knox. Negative - L. Andrews, G. Mixter, H. G. Reynolds. This Lyceum seems to have been a live institution, holding large meetings and having spirited discussions every week. In the same issue is an account of a meeting held at the Eagle Hotel, to make arrangements to celebrate Harrison's birthday. D. G. Garnsey was chairman, and C. C. Washburne (late Governor of Wisconsin) Secretary. He was then a clerk in some business house here. The officers of the day appointed were Henrv Powars, President; Charles Eames, Silas Marshall, Lucius Wells, Larkin Reynolds, Charles A. Spring and B. F. Barren, Vice-Presidents ; D. G. Garnsey, C. C. Washburne, J. G. Powars, M. Atkinson, R. H. Kinney, Committee to prepare toasts ; David Hawes, Geo. Myres, W. E. Franklin, A. Everest, S. D. Carpenter, H. Boggess, J. G. Haviland, J. A. Boyer, John Frizzell, Committee of Arrangements.

The early settlers could not divest themselves of the idea that the Rock River was navigable, and numerous attempts were made to prove the correctness of their views. In i84t, Capt. King took a small steamer up as far as Sterling, but had much difficulty in returning. The Upper Mississippian in an editorial July 20, r844, said :

"The steamer Lighter, Capt. Hight, has just returned to this place from a voyage up the Rock River, during which he ascended to Madison, the Territorial seat of government, a distance of near three hundred miles! This is the first voyage made by -team, as we have been informed, to so great a distance, and it has fully proven what has been before believed, - that there are but slight obstructions to the navigation of the river above Sterling, and that the two rapids below that point furnish the oniy serious impediment. Were these removed, it is the opinion of gentlemen well informed on the subject that the stream may be navigated by boats of alight draught, for one-quarter or one-third of the year."

In 1841 Rock Island was incorporated as a town, and continued under that form of government until 1849, when a city charter was adopted by a vote of the people. Those who have served the city in the office of Mayor are as follows:

On the 23d day of April, 1825, John McLean, Postmaster-General of the United States, wrote a letter to Col. Geo. Davenport tendering him the commission as Postmaster on the island, the office to be known as Rock Island. In the fall the Colonel received his commission, but it was several years before he took the oath of office, for the reason that there was no one qualified to administer it. The office was continued upon the island until Nov. 5, 1834. Joseph Conway having received the appointment of Postmaster of Farnamsburg, the county seat of Rock Island County, it was useless longer to continue upon the island. Mr. Conway's appointment bore date April 4, 1834. The village of Stephenson j being laid out the following year, the name of the office was changed. In 1841 it was again changed, to Rock Island. The location of the first office was opposite the present residence of P. L. Cable. It was a large log cabin, and served as a court-house, as well as postoffice and residence of the postmaster. Occasionally a severe storm would require the postmaster to put his valuables between beds to keep them dry.

Miles YV. Conway succeeded his brother as Postmaster Nov. 11, 1836, serving until June 10, 1840, when Joseph B. Wells, afterwards Lieutenant-Governor, was appointed. He served only till April 13, 1S41, when Chas. A. Garnsey was appointed. Col. John Buford was successor to Mr. Garnsey, appointed March 21, 1S43. His office was on First Avenue, between 1 6th and 17th Streets. Harmon G. Reynolds succeeded Col. Buford, his commission dating Aug. 3r, 1847. Elbridge R. Bean came next, his commission bearing date May n, 1849. The office was then on Second Avenue, between 17th and 1 8th Streets. He served until May 26, 1853, when James Kelley was appointed. Mr. Kelley moved the office to Bailey & Baylis', now Mitchell & Lynde's Block. Wm. Frizzell succeeded Kelley, May 15, 1855, and served until April 2, 1856, when Lewis N. Webber was appointed. The office was now on the south side of Second Avenue, between 17th and 18th Streels. Herman Field was next commissioned, serving from Sept. 2, 1858, till April 6, 1861, when Dr. Calvin Truesdale was appointed, the office being kept in Bailey & Baylis' Block. John B. Hawley was commissioned March 3, 1865, and served until Sept. 21, t866, when Capt. James F. Copp was appointed. Marcus B. Osborne succeeded Capt. Copp April 3,1867, serving until March 1, 1871, when Capt. L. M. Haverstick was appointed. D. P. Me- Kown was his assistant. Wm. Jackson came next, his commission bearing date March 20, 1873. He served until March 6, 1S76, when Thomas Murdock was appointed. Maj. James M. Beardsley was next appointed, his commission bearing date Feb. 18, 1880. He did not take possession until April i, 1880. Maj. Beardsly was succeeded by Maj. Chas. W. Hawes, Aug. 1. 1884.

At the present time the postoffice is very centrally located, as for many years past it may be found in Michell & Lynde's Block, and has entrances on East and West 17th Streets, between First and Second Avenues. Many improvements have been made by the owners of the building, from whom the United States rents the office. It now ranks with the largest and most perfectly arranged postoffices in the country, and also managed with marked system, punctuality and fidelity by Major Chas. W. Hawes and well-chosen assistants. The office contains 1,500 Yale boxes. The gross receipts aggregate $19,000 per annum. Major Hawes has proven since his appointment as Postmaster in August, 1884, very efficient and painstaking, and has gained great popularity. See personal sketch on page 572.

Public Library

The Rock Island Library was the first free public library opened in the State of Illinois, under the general law in force March 7, 1872, it having been organized under that law and thrown open to the public November 25, of that year. But the people of the city, recognizing the fact of the great value and importance of a public library as an educational institution, opened an institution of this kind in September, 1855, which flourished until the present ent library was opened, when, by consent of those interested, it was donated to the library as organized under the law mentioned above. It formed a very valuable nucleus, around which books have accumulated until the library at present numbers 8,000 volumes, which embrace the choicest literature in history, biographies, science, fiction, etc. ; and there will ever exist with the people of Rock Island a grateful remembrance of the generosity of the old library organization, which donated their 2,000 volumes at its commencement. Three large rooms in the postoffice building are in use. One is a general reading-room, where may be found numerous daily, weekly and monthly newspapers, magazines'and periodicals. The second is the general library room, and the third is also used a book and reading-room. Here are found the large number of general reference books, which form a part of the library. The Board arrange for the keeping of the rooms in exemplary order, while the business of the library is attended to in an excellent manner by the obliging librarian, Miss E. Gale. The lively interest in and high appreciation of the public library by the citizens of Rock Island, is shown by the fact that the yearly attendance is about 40,000. The following are the names of the directors : Maj. H. C. Connelly, President; J. H. Southwell, Secretary; W. H. Gest, Dr. C. Truesdale, Alexander Steel, Dr. C. Bernhardi, Henry Curtis, Elmore W. Hurst and J. R. Johnston.

Educational

The citizens of Rock Island, even at an early day, took much interest in the cause of education. Free schools were not yet instituted and private schools abounded during the first and second decades. In the Rock Island Banner, under date March 11, 1841, appears an advertisement of a '' Female School, by Miss Adelia M. Lowell," also of the " Rock Island Academical High School, J. Alden Woodruff, Principal, " and the " Rock Island Academy,!). J. Loyd, Principal. " In the issue for March 31, 1842, is an advertisement of the re-opening of P. H. Ogilvie's school in Bu ford's building. Some of the leading citizens of Rock Island and Moline were educated in these schools.

A law was enacted and a charter obtained for the establishment of the present school system Feb. 18, 1857. The charter provides that a board of education, consisting of five members, shall be elected by the people, and that they shall Lave ample power to establish and foster free schools. It gives them general supervision of all the school, and power to employ a superintendent, who, under the rules adopted by the Board of Education, shall be Clerk of the Board and ex officio member; to direct what branches shall be taught, to grade the schools, employ teachers and enact suitable rules and regulations for their government. It gives them ample power to levy taxes for school purposes and to issue bonds for buildingschool-houses and purchasing school grounds. Few cities in Illinois provided at so early a day such am[_le provisions for the education of their youth. The present prosperity of the schools of Rock Island demonstrates the foresight and wisdom of her citizens in obtaining the enactment of this charter. At present the city is supplied with seven school buildings.

The High School building is located on the block bounded by Sixth and Seventh Avenues and 21st and 22d Streets. It is a large, three-story brick, accommodating 600 pupils when seated to its full capacity.

The First Ward School building is on the south side of Third Avenue, between Seventh and Eighth Streets. It is also a large, three-story brick, with accommodations for 650 pupils.

In October, 1877, on the ground purchased of Bailey Davenport, corner of Ninth Avenue and 12th Street, the Board of Education completed a fine, threestory, brick building, capable of seating 550 pupils, in which they then opened four rooms, accommodating 230 pupils. The plan of heating and ventilating this building is the most economical and perfect of all in the city and perhaps in the State. The grounds are adorned with sliade-trees and in front with a beautiful grass plat, in which the teachers interspersed shrubbery and flower beds.

The gradation of the schools is thorough, there being nine distinct grades below the High School, and each grade containing an A and a B class. In these grades are taught tire various branches pertaining to a common-school education, including history of the United States, music, drawing, the elements of science, and geometry, - the last two branches taught orally. At the close of each year classes are promoted from grade to grade, as they are able to pass the required examinations. Monthly examinations are held, and any pupil able to pass to a higher grade receives a special promotion. By this means a bright pupil, by close application, can finish the prescribed studies in much less time than provided in the course of study.

Religious

The first sermon preached in this locality, so far as at present known, was on the island, in 1826. The second was in 1829, Rev. John Kinney, a local Methodist Episcopal preacher delivering the discourse. To-day almost all the leading denominations are represented.

The First Methodist Episcopal Church of this city has had an organized existence since 1833. The first meetings of those holding to this faith were held in the house of John W. Spencer, during that year, the Rev. Asa McMurtry conducting the services, and organizing a class composed of the following named members: Calvin Spencer and wife, Zerah Spencer, Sally Case, Wm. Brasher, James M. Brasher, James Thompson and Caroline Thompson. Meetings were held at private houses until 1836, when, a schoolhouse having been erected, they were held therein until their first house of worship was built in 1844. This house stood on Union Square. The present Church edifice was erected in 1855, at a cost of $20,- 000. The Church has prospered in numbers, mateterial wealth and spirituality.

The German Methodist Episcopal Church of Rock Island was organized in 1855. In 1856 they erected their first house of worship, which, in 1874, was superseded by the present building, on the corner of Sixth Avenue and Fourteenth Street, which cost about $4,000. Among the original members were H. Brockmann, J. Rawser, Ph. Sherer and C. Wagner. Rev. J. B. Schwietert is the present Pastor.

Gilbert, Z. Cook, Barbara Cook, Lemuel and Silah Ludden, Phoebe Skinner and Nancy Taylor as charter members. They met first in private houses, then in the court-house, and in 1844 purchased the old brick school-house on Union Square, at a cost of $45.36, which they fitted up and used until 1848, when they built a house of worship, at a cost of $3,500. This house was used until 1870, when they erected their present Church edifice on the corner of Third Avenue and Fifteenth Street, at a cost of $t8,ooo. In the 48 years of its existence it has given three of its members to the ministry of the Word - W. W. Phares, N. Elton and John L. Jackson. The present membership of the Church is 190. Its Sunday-school has an average attendance of 150, with an enrollment of over 200. J. W. Welch is Superintendent. A mission school is held in the eastern part of the city, with Geo. P. Lyman as Superintendent. Rev. I. W. Read is the present Pastor.

The Second Baptist Church is composed of colored members exclusively. Its first meetings were held in the Mission Chapel of the First Baptist Church, and an organization effected April 19, 1875. Soon after its organization, a lot was purchased on the corner of Ninth Street and Fifth Avenue, on which they erected a small house of worship, at a cost of $670. Rev. Edward Wilson, of Davenport, is the present Pastor.

The Swedish Baptist Church is located on Fifth Avenue, between 20th and 21st Streets. The first services were held in the old brick school-house, on Union Square, and the Church was organized Aug. 13, 1852, with only three members, - A. T. Mankee, P. Soderstrom and Frederika Bolberg. Their house of worship was erected in 1855, at a cost of $1,500. Notwithstanding it has never been strong in numbers or material wealth, the Church has sent out four successful missionaries, who have succeeded in organizing several Churches.

The Central Presbyterian Church dates back to 1837. The first steps taken towards the organization of a Presbyterian Church in Rock Island was at a meeting held in the dining-room of the old Rock Island House Nov. 27, 1S37. Rev. John Montgomery and Rev. I. Pillsbury were present as a committee of the Presbytery. After a sermon by Mr. Pillsbury, ten persons united in forming a Church, - Wm. Dick- son, A. C. Donaldson, M. Conway, May Donaldson, Miriam C. Dickson, A. F. Russell, David M. Dickson, Benjamin McKay, Sarah McKay. The name adopted was that of the " First Presbyterian Church of Stephenson, Illinois." In 1848 the Church became divided on the slavery question, seven persons withdrawing from this Church and effecting another organization, under the auspices of the New School Presbyterians. In the organization of the new Church Rev. A. Kent, of Galena, and Rev. S. W. Blanchard, of Galesburg, officiated. The Church was thus divided, and remained so until the general union of the Old and New School Presbyterian Churches was brought about, when the cause for division was taken away. In May, 1870, the two Churches were united, taking the name of "The Presbyterian Church of R/)ck Island," and so remained until May 28, 1875, when some of its members were dismissed, that they might form the Church known as the Broadway Presbyterian Church, when the Church took the name by which it is now known - the Central Presbyterian Church. The first meetings of this body were held in the old school-house. The first house of worship was erected in 1845, on lot 1, block n. The Second Church, or New School, erected a house, 25 x 40, on the site of the present Central Presbyterian Church. In 1855 another building was erected, which was demolished Dy a tornado Sept. 15, 1874, and was immediately rebuilt in its present form, and re-occupied July 4, 1875. During the separate existence of the First Church the building now occupied by St. Joseph's Catholic Church was built, which involved the Church heavily in debt. After the union of the two bodies, it was sold to the Catholics. The Central Church building is quite a handsome structure. The membership of the Church is quite large, with a flourishing Sundayschool. Rev. S. S. Cryer is the present Pastor.

Broadway Presbyterian Church was organized May 28, 1885, in the lecture-room of the Presbyterian Church, by a committee of the Rock River Presbytery, consisting of Rev. Josiah Milligan, Rev. J. H. Moore and Elder Snyder. Some 45 persons received letters of dismission to form this Church. A beautiful and costly house of worship was erected on the corner of 23d Street and Seventh Avenue in 1877.

German Presbyterian Church was organized May 16, 187 1, with 33 members. The house of worship was purchased from the United Presbyterians. The

Catholic. - -The first Catholic congregation was formed in Rock Island at an early day, under the charge and with the occasional work of Father Alleman, a German Dominican Friar, who died in St. Louis shortly after the war. The congregation was composed chiefly of Irish, French and German emigrants. Services were at first held in a cooper-shop. After this period Father Alleman built a small Cathlic church where St. Mary's church now stands. All the cut stone used in this building was taken from the ruins of the Mormon Temple at Nauvoo. When a new building became necessary, in 1866, the same stone was used for the residence of the priest. In 1874 it was thought best to divide the congregation, forming one for the English-speaking people and an- ther for the Germans.

St. Joseph's Catholic Church was formed and the old Presbyterian Church, on Second Avenue, was purchased and re-fitted for the use of the congregation. There are at present more than 2,000 souls connected with the congregation. Rev. T. Mackin is the priest in charge of the parish at the present time.

St. Mary's Catholic Church is composed of the German speaking members of that body. When the congregation was divided it retained the old church property on Fourth Avenue and 2 2d Street. Rev. H. Liermann is the Priest in charge at the present time.

Trinity Episcopal Church was organized in 1853. Some time prior to this, Rev. Mr. Louderback held Episcopal services in Rock Island in a hall in Lee's Block. The first recorded vestry meeting of Trinity parish was held Nov. 12, 1853, and it was about that time that an organization was effected. Among the original number comprised in its organization were Bailey Davenport, Mr. and Mrs. S. M. Harris, Mrs. Langley, Mrs. Joseph Brackett and Mrs. Goldsmith. The parish is now one of the best in the diocese. The first church edifice was completed June 11, 1857, and cost $2,000 The present church building, costing $16,000, was completed Jan. 30, 1870. Rev. L. Goodale was the first Rector. The present Kector is Rev. R. F. Sweet.

the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Rev. Matthew Bigger, together with Ruling Elders John Collins and Wm. Haverfield, by appointment of the Second Associate Reformed Presbytery of Illinois, met at Rock Island in the old seminary building on Third Avenue and effected an organization with 20 members. Erskine McClellan, James Tod and Hugh VVarnock were elected Elders. For six months the congregation was without a house of worship. A small building was then erected, at a cost of $1,200. Before its completion services were held therein, the ministers occupying a nail keg for a seat. Rev. J. R. McCallister was acting pastor, serving from July, 1854, to July, i860. There were 5 1 additions during this time. He was succeeded by Rev. VV. H. Jeffers from July, i860, to September, 1861. He was a line preacher. Rev. Henry Wallace came in April, 1 S63, and remained eight years. He was a man of more than ordinary ability. During his pastorate 72 were added to the Church. Rev. VV. J. Gillespie came in July, 187 1, and remained one year. He was succeeded by the present Pastor, Rev. J. A. Reynolds, who came in July, 1872. Under his pastorate 164 have been added to the Church, and a neat and attractive house of worship erected, at a cost of $10,000, on Third Avenue, in 1872. The Church now numbers 92, with Rev. J. A. Reynolds, D. D., Pastor; Hugh Warnock, S. F. Cooke, J. McKee, Elders. The Sabbath-school has an average attendance of 95. Hugh Warnock and wife are the only ones remaining of the original number forming the Church.

The Christian Church of Rock Island was organized on the 23d day of March, 1868. During the winter previous C. W. Sherwood, under the direction of the Christian Missionary Society of the State of Illinois, held a series of meetings here, having in view an organization. Those forming the organization were P. L. Mitchell, W. F. Gilmore, Agenoria H. Gilmore, Kate M. Gilmore, Almira Holt, Amelia Fiscus, Adam Blackball, Jessie E. Blackball, John Bulley, Isaac McGrew, Parthena Vermillion, Elizabeth H. McNeal, Christina Swiningar, Sarah Ann Ranberger, Abraham Rinker. The congregation commenced occupying, as a place of worship, a hall in Mitchell & Lynde's block on West 17th Street north of Second Avenue, in which they continued till October, 1S70, at which time P. L. Mitchell, having purchased of the First Baptist Church the house vacated by them on the northeast corner of 3d Avenue and 15th Street, erecting a tower and otherwise beautifying it, presented it to the Christian congregation as a place of worship, in which they have continued to the present time. The Church has been fairly prosperous, now numbering 75 worthy members. J. H. Wright is the present Pastor.

The Evangelical Lutheran Tmmanuel Church was organized in 1856. Its house of worship is situated on 20th Street near 5th Avenue. Services are held in the German language. This Church holds to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession of Faith. Rev. C. A. Meunick is the present Pastor, and has served the Church for many years.

The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Church is the result of a movement on the part of the pastor of the Church at Moline, holding services in private houses. In 1870 an organization was effected, consisting of members formerly belonging to the Swedish Lutheran Church in Moline. Rev. S. Benson, from Moline, served as Pastor till 1873, then Rev. V. Setterdahl till 1874. Rev. T. N. Hasselquist, D. D., President of Augustana College, has been in charge of the Church since September, 1875.

The secret and benevolent societies are well represented here and have a very large membership. Among those represented are the Masons, Odd Fellows, United Workmen, Modern Woodmen, Knights of Pythias, Druids, G. A. R. Posts and Knights of Honor.

The Masonic Order in Rock Island has about 400 members which help to make up the half million in the United States. The hall in which they meet is over the Rock Island National Bank, and is one of the best arranged and most elaborately finished and furnished of all in the State. The order is in a prosperous and harmonious condition, having two blue lodges, one chapter and one coinmandery. The board of control of the order in Rock Island, whose duty it is to look after and take charge of its various interests, hall property, etc., is composed of the following members : H. C. Cleaveland, Henry Burgower, A. F. Fleming, John Evans, Dr. W. T. Magill, Alex. Steel, J. M. Montgomery, Henry Carse. During the early days of the order in this city meetings were held in a small room opposite the Rock Island House on Second Avenue. From this location they moved west to 1,610 Second Avenue, where they had quite a comfortable room. As the order increased in numbers, still better accommodations were required, so a hall was rented that stood upon the site of Harper's Theater building. In 1878 the present Masonic Temple was made ready for their occupancy. This is one of the finest halls in the State and reflects great credit upon all instrumental in its erection and furnishing. The entire third story is fitted up in an elegant manner. In addition to the large and handsome lodge-room there is a parlor, Knights Templars' room, kitchen, dining, waiting and toilet rooms and water-closets - everything that tends to make it comfortable and home-like. A lease was secured for 20 years.

Trio Lodge, No. 57, A. F. & A. M., was instituted Oct. 4, 1848, and is the oldest lodge in the city. When first organized its membership was composed of members from Cambridge, Milan and Rock Island. When the other towns had a sufficient number of members lodges were formed in those places. Now Trio Lodge is confined to Rock Island. The lodge has been and is viow in a very prosperous condition, with a membership of 142. One of its number has been honored with office in the Grand Lodge: Henry C. Cleaveland, who was Grand Junior Warden. The present officers are M. M. Briggs. M. W.; G. F. Kramer, S. W.; H. A. Danker, J. W.; Henry Burgower, Treas.; Wm. B. Pettit, Sec.

Fort Armstrong Lodge, No. 186, A. F. & A. M., was instituted Oct. 6, 1856, with seven charter members - P. A. Whitaker, W. M.; A. W. Barber, S. W. ; S. S. Plummer, J. W. The lodge continued to exist but a few years, and then suspended.

Barrett Chapter, No. 18, R. A M., was instituted Sept. 30, 1S53, with P. A. Whitaker, H. P.; William Faris, King; G. Goldsmith, Scribe. This is the only chapter in the county; therefore it is in a most flourishing condition, having 194 members in good standing.

Odd Fellowship is established in this city, with three subordinate lodges, one Encampment and uniformed Degree Camp, and one lodge of the Rebecca Degree. All meet in Odd Fellows' Hall, corner of Second Avenue and 18th Street, except Hecker Lodge, which meets over No. 1901 Second Avenue.

4, 1846. Its meetings are held on Monday evenings of each week. The present membership of the lodge is 144, and it is in excellent condition in every way. The following-named were its officers in the fall of 1885: H. N. Crippen, N. G. ; George W. Reaugh, V. G.; W. B. Hancock, R. S. ; Charles Engel, P. S. ; W. L. Sweeney, Treasurer.

Ucal Lodge, No. 608, was instituted March 9, 1876, with 1 2 charter members. It has had a prosperous career, and is now in fine working order. But one of its members has been removed by death, though there has been much sickness among them. The lodge financially is sound, having at present $1,000 in the treasury. One of its members, James F. Van Horn, has been honored with office in the Grand Lodge. The present membership is 70, with the following-named officers : Charles Guldingopp, N. G. ; Chris. Einfeld, V. G. ; \V. V. Stafford, R. S. ; James VanHorn, P. S. ; M. S. O'Neil, P. S.

Rock Island Encampment, No. 12, was instituted November, 1848, with seven charter members. Its conditions has uniformly been good, those uniting having the work at heart and doing all in their power to advance its interests. The present membership is 70, and the present elective officers are A. H. Grimm, C. P. ; W. H. Scott, H. P. ; J. W. Herbert,

May 9, 18S3, with 21 charter members. Its present membership is 26, and all supplied with handsome uniforms. The camp is in good working order, meeting on the 2d and 4th Saturday in each month. T. \V. Stack is the present Commander ; J F. Van Horn. Vice Commander; B. F. Knox, Secretary; C. B. Knox, Treasurer.

The Ancient Order of United Workmen in this State had its beginning in Rock Island, and in the city it has, from the organization of its first lodge, been very successful, and has a large aggregate membership. The different lodges have always occupied the same hall. They first met in a hall below the Rock Island House, and remained there three years, moving from thence to a hall on the corner of Second Avenue and Seventeenth Street, where they also remained three years, since which time they have been meeting in their fine hall, on the corner of Third Avenue and Sixteenth Street. The upper rooms were specially arranged for the use of the order, having parlor, kitchen, dining and ante rooms, in addition to the regular lodge rooms. The rooms were fitted up at a cost of over $r,ooo.

Noble Lodge, No. 1, A. O. U. W., was instituted Nov. 18, 1874, with 27 charter members. T. W. Russell was the first Master. The lodge has had a prosperous existence, and now numbers 98 members in good standing. Its officers for the last half of 1885 were: Chris Danielson, P. M. W. ; Ira C. Peck, M. W. ; George L. Gorman, Foreman ; E. H. Barker, Overseer; Chris Oswald, Recorder; John Russell, Financial Secretary ; F. T. Hill, Receiver. Six deaths have occurred among its members: Frank 1). Johnson, O. S. Grinereed, Edwin Sutcliff, George Zeigler, Axel A. Bodinson and T. A. Frey.

Island City Lodge, No. 4, was instituted April 23, 1875, with 9 charter members. For a time the lodge worked slowly, as the people had to be educated to a knowledge of the order and its principles ; but it has had a gradual increase in membership. Two of its members have held office in the Grand Lodge - E. W. Boynton, G. M. W., and E. G. A. Solander, Grand Recorder.

Germania Lodge, No. 6, was instituted Sept. 18, 1875, iis members being confined to those speaking the German tongue. It has a present membership of 76, and is in a highly prosperous condition. E. Krell, a member of the lodge, has been Grand Receiver of the Grand Lodge. The lodge has lost seven of its members by death. The principal officers at present are Victor Beck, M. W. ; Charles Kolls, G. F. ; Rudolph Schwecke,0.; Robert Koehler, Recorder ; F. Rudolph, Receiver.

Black Hawk Lodge, No. 81, was instituted May 31, 1877. Like the other lodges in this city, it is in good working condition, with a membership of 46.

St. Paul's, No. 117, Knights of Pythias, was organized in July, 18S2. lis meetings are held every Friday evening, in the A. O. U. I). Hall, Star Block. The order is in a flourishing condition in this place.

Gen. John Buford Post, G. A. R., was organized May 30, 1883. It has a large and rapidly increasing membership, the old soldiers of the city taking great interest in the work of the order.

Imperial Lodge, No. 1,237, Knights of Honor, was organized Oct. 30, 1878. This lodge is doing well, and numbers among its members some of the best citizens of Rock Island.

The O-Sau-Kee Tribe, No. I J, Improved Order of Red Men, was organized in April, 1879, and holds regular meetings in their hall every Wednesday evening.

Knights of Labor. - Freedom Assembly, No. 1,957, Knights of Labor, was organized in 1882, and meets in hall on corner of 17th Street and Third Avenue.

Rock Island Lodge, No. i6g, I. O. B. B., was organized Jan. 11, 1872, and holds its regular meetings the first and third Sunday in each month. In the spring of 1885 the following named were its officers: Louis May, Pres. ; J. E. Goldsmith, Vice- Pres. ; H. Regensburger, Rec. Sec; I. Bamberger, Treas.

Rock Island Grove, No. 28, U. O. A. D., was instituted April, 1872. It has now 108 members, and holds its meetings every Thursday in their hall in Star Block. Its officers in the spring of 1885 were: Jacob F. Ohlweiler, N. A.; Jacob Schillinger, V. A.; Chas. Otto, Sec:.; August Schneid, Treas This Grove has a msennerchor in connection.

The Rock Island Mutual Building, Loan and Savings Association was incorporated July 10, 1880, and since then has proven of great benefit to the men of small means and enabled many to secure lots and homes who would not have done so but for its inducements. It has a capital of $500,000 and 600 members, many of- the leading and substantial citizens of the place being included in this list. Officers : Alex. Steel, Pres. ; Lothar Harms, Vice-Pres. ; E. H. Guyer, Sec. ; J.Frank Robinson, Treas. ; M. E. Sweeney, Attorney or Solicitor.

Frederick Mucnch Lodge, No. 4g6, D. O. If., was organized June, 1884, and is composed entirely of those speaking the German language. It has 35 members, its object being benevolence in its widest sense. Its meetings are held the first and third Friday in each month at 1609 Second Avenue. Its present officers are : Henry Kruse, O. B. ; Christ. Limburg, U. B. ; August Herkert, D. D. G. B.

The Rock Island County Medical Society was organized in the spring of 1884, and meets the first Tuesday of each month in the Board of Education rooms, Post office Block. The following physicians are its officers in 1885 : James Cozad, Pres. ; Warren Hunter, Treas. ; Geo. L. Eyster, Sec.

The Iowa and Illinois Central District Medical Association was organized in 1868, and has 60 members. It meets quarterly, alternately in Rock Island and Davenport, January, April, July and October. Its present officers are : M. B. Cochrane, Pres.; G. G Craig, Vice-Pres. ; A. W. Cantwell, Treas.; Geo. L. Eyster, Sec, having held this position since 1876.

The Avion Singing Society was organized November, 1 881, and has at the present time 34 members, [ although at one time it had 85. Its object is voice culture and mutual entertainment, and it is in a finely organized and flourishing condition. Meetings are held every Wednesday night, corner First Avenue and 1 8th Street. Its officers in the spring of 1885 were: Gottlieb Beck, Pres. ; Henry Peetz, Vice- Pres. ; Joseph Huber, Treas. ; John Westphal, Sec. ; Emil Jacobsen, Librarian.

Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, Ttoin City Lodge, No. 2Q, was organized in rS8o, and has now 83 members. Its officers in the spring of 1885 were:

Brotherhood of Brakemen. - Island City Lodge, No. 1 1, Brotherhood of Brakemen, was organized June 24, 1884. Its meetings are held the second Monday and fourth Sunday in each month. In the spring of 1885, J. W. Quinn was Master, and T. J. Flanigan, Secretary.

Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. - Rock Island Division, No. 60, was organized Dec. 6, 1864, and has a large membership. Its meetings are held the first Sunday and third Saturday of each month. In 1885 James Ewing was C. E., and P. H. Wells, Secretary and Treasurer.

Ancient Order of Hibernians was organized in 1881 and has 40 members, its object being " Friendship, Unity and True Christian Charity." Meetings are held first Sunday of each month over 1806 Second Avenue. Its officers are at present: David Fitzgerald, President; John Mulcahy, Vice-President; John Mulligan, Recording Secretary ; Pierce Kane, Financial Secretary; John O'Neil, Treasurer; Morris Mulcahy, County Delegate.

St. Patrick's Benevolent Society is another flourishing organization and holds meetings the second Sunday in each month at the Catholic Church schoolhouse. The officers in the spring of 1885 were: Patrick Kinney, President ; Thomas Shea, Treasurer ; Martin F. O'Reilly, Secretary.

The Western Catholic Union has two branches, St. Joseph's and a German, the former meeting the second Tuesday of each month, its officers being: J. W. Cavanaugh, President; G. L. Wynes, Recording Secretary; Chas. J. Larkin, Financial Secretary; John Brennan, Treasurer.

St. Luke's Cottage Hospital is a new and one of the beneficial institutions of the city, its object being to care for the indigent sick and maimed people irrespective of sex, nationality, color or religious creed. The movement was started by the ladies of Trinity Episcopal Church, aided by other benevolent persons of the city, and the entire building has been furnished by donations from the citizens. It is located at xV 915 Second Avenue, and following are the officers of the medical staff: D.\ Thomas Gait, President ; Dr. if: C. Truesdale, Vice-President ; Dr. Geo. L. Eyster, Secretary.

The Rock Islam! County Bible Society was established May 31, 1844, and although it has no president at this writing yet it is doing a commendable work under those exemplary Christian gentlemen - E. W. Spencer and J. W. Stark, Secretary and Depositary respectively.

The y oung Men's Christian Association has its rooms over 17 19 Second Avenue, where general meetings are held the first Tuesday in each month at 7:30 p. m., and directors' meetings the last Tuesday in each month. Officers: Frank Nadler, President ; - A. M. Bruner and F. H. Kaupke, Vice-Presidents; Geo. P. Lyman, Secretary ; J. D. Warnock, Treasurer.

Woman's Christian Temperance Union meets at the above rooms the first Tuesday in each month at k 3:30 P. M. Mrs. H. Kingsbury, President; Miss Ella j. Taylor, Secretary ; Miss Belle Fleming, Treasurer.

The Rock Island Business Mens Association is an organization instituted by a number of the leading citizens, its object being the promotion of the interests of the city in every possible way. I. W. Stewart is President, and J. Frank Robinson, Secretary.

The Rock Island Turn-Gemcinde was founded in April, 1857, and became an incorporated society in 1869. The society has erected in the rear of the hall a fine brick building, 50 by 30 feet, at a cost of $2,- 000, and used as a gymnasium, Theodore Bessing, an accomplished gymnast, being the paid instructor. The society numbers about 7 5, among whom are a large portion of the best educated and liberal German citizens. The hall is located at 1518 and 1520 Third Avenue, and rented by him for public entertainments when not used by the turners. Officers: Julius G. Junge, President; C. J. W. Schreiner, Vice-President; Albert D. Huesing, Secretary; G. Otto Hiickstaedt, Treasurer.

Military

Co. A, Sixth 111. Inf., better known as the Rodman Rifles, was mustered into the State service in August 1877. It numbers 75 men and is one of the finest in the State, having distinguished itself for precision in military tactics and for soldierly conduct gener- ally. The Rifle Team has made the best record of all in the Second Brigade, and won the prize for marksmanship offered by that brigade in 1880, and also prizes in contests in other States. In 1879 a corporation was formed by the members of this company and purchased a lot, on which they erected their present handsome and imposing brick armory, 60 x 150 feet, at an expense of $15,000. It is located at the corner of Third Avenue and 16th Street, and besides its own headquarters, the City Council, police station and A. O. U. W. lodges are located therein. The officers are Henry M. Abell, Captain; C. C. Carter, First Lieutenant; W. H. Steel, Second Lieutenant.

Artificial Light

The Rock Island Brush Electric Light Company was organized under its present name Aug. 25, 1882, but had been in existence since December, 1881. On November 1, 1882, a contract was made with the city for the tower system of lighting, to run five years. The company has 11 towers, each 132 feet in height, with two lights and ten miles of wire in the tower circuit. They have also some 30 private consumers. The capital stock of the company is $24,000. It has one dynamo of 60-light capacity, located on the corner of First Avenue and 16th Street, J. R. Johnston is President; F. M. Wheaton, Secretary ; J. Frank Robinson, Treasurer ; James Blaisdell, electrician.

The Merchants' Electric Light Company originated in Moline in November, 1882, and but recently commenced operations in Rock Island. It has a fine, substantial brick building on 19th Street near First Avenue, 38x48 feet, in which is a fine engine and boiler and two dynamos of 20-light capacity each. Thos. B. Davis is President; Samuel S. Davis, Sei retary; C. Lynde, Treasurer.

The Rock Island Gas Works are located on the corner of 17th Street and First Avenue, and are among the best equipped and most complete works^ in the country. The present company took possession in 1877.

Medical

Until 1S36, the village and surrounding country were dependent upon the island for medical aid. In that year came Dr. Patrick Gregg (see page 234), who commenced an active practice which has extended over a period of 49 years. To-day, while his hair is whitened by the frosts of many winters, his step is as active as many who have scarcely reached the prime of life. For many years he has been the Government physician on the island. Like most young physicians, Dr. Gregg commenced his professional career a poor man, but his energy was unbounded. In the early spring after his arrival here, he had an experience which endeared him to the place and increased his confidence in humanity to a great extent. At that time he received a summons to go over to the island to attend George L., a son of George Davenport, who was threatened with fever. The Doctor carefully attended him through a short spell, at the end of which time the Colonel came over to his office and placed a $roo bill in his hand. The Doctor, when he saw the amount of the bill, said, "Why, Colonel, I am a poor man ; I cannot change that." " I don't want you to change it," responded the Colonel. " If you are satisfied with the amount, I am." It was several times what the Doctor would have charged : still it was acceptable.

Dr. Stiles was probably the first homeopathist in Rock Island. He was here before the war. During the Rebellion, he served his country, and at its closej or shortly after, returned to Vermont, his native State. Among the other homeopathists were Dr. Lawrence, now of Colorado Springs; Dr. Minier, Dr. Jenks, and Dr. Dart, a lady physician. The present representatives of this branch of the medical profession are Drs. Kinyon (see page 487), Reiter and Paul.

The banking business in Rock Island was commenced in 1852 by the establishment of two banks, - the Rock Island Bank and the private bank of Cook, Sargent & Parker. The Rock Island Bank was a bank of issue, and incorporated with a capital of $500,000, but how much was paid up is not known. M. B. Osborn was President and S. H. Mann, Cashier. The bank failed during the panic of 1857.

Cook, Sargent & Parker continued until 1856, when P. L. Mitchell and P. L. Cable purchased it and continued the business under the firm name of Mitchell & Cable. Mr. Cable, at the end of four years, retired, and Cornelius Lynde became a partner, the business being coniinued under the firm name of Mitchell and Lynde. This firm has now been in existence 25 years and is considered one of the strongest banking firms in the State. The business is managed by Judge Lynde, Mr. Mitchell giving his attention to the interests of the First National Bank, of which he is President.

In 1855 Goodale & Lee commenced the banking and insurance business. They continued for three years, but the panic of 1857-8 was too much for them and they failed.

N. B. Buford & Co., in 1856, organized a private banking institution, which was merged into the Bank of Federal Union in 1858, and which subsequently failed.

The First National Bank was organized in November, 1863, with a capital of $100,000, P. L. Mitchell, President; J. M. Buford, Cashier. The bank commenced business on the corner of Second Avenue and 16th Street, where it continued until September,

1876, when it was removed to its present location on the northwest corner of 2d Ave. and 18th Street. The capital stock yet remains at $100,000, but it has a surplus of $50,000. P. L. Mitchell (see page 459) has been its President from its organization. Mr. Buford continued as cashier till the spring of 1884, when he resigned and George M. Truesdale was elected to the position. The conservative policy pursued by the officers and directors of this bank commends it to the community generally.