Saratoga Township (part 3 of 4)

Cairo. It. served as escort to General Grant in which service it continued until August, 1SG3. With a part of his regiment Colonel Dickey made a reconnaissance of Fort Donelson, in which he captured a picket line of about a dozen men. This regiment marched in advance of General Grant's army upon Fort Donelson and General McClernand's command engaged in that affair through snow, sunshine, rain and sleet. Immediately after the surrender it moved to Randolph Forge and encamped on the property of Hem. John Bell & Co., one of the largest iron companies of Tennessee, the farm being occupied by Major Grey, a veteran who had fought under Jackson at New Orleans. At Pittsburg Landing this regiment was assigned to a brigade commanded partly by Brigadier-General I. oilman and partly by General Hurlburt, alter which all were assigned to General Sherman's command. After the battle of Pittsburg Landing, or, more properly, Shiloh, the Fourth was kept constantly scouting, a large part of its duty being the destroying of railroads ami bridges. In the latter pail of October, 1801, orders were received for this regiment to return to Springfield to be mustered out. When leaving Chicago the roster was about one thousand one hundred men and when mustered out there were '540 win) rceived discharge in November, 1SG4.

An attempt to write fully the military history of- Grundy County, leaving out mention of the efforts of the women, would be like playing Hamlet without the melancholy Dane. Noble women all over the land hastened to oiler help and succor and every community had its aid societies, some of these independent and others working with organizations in larger places where transportation was easy. The Soldiers' Aid Society of Morris, Grundy County, was auxiliary to the Chicago -Aid Society. Wonderful were the expedients tried by these earnest women by which an honest dollar might be earned and no extra task or peiS nal sacrifice was overlooked .to add to the fund which at stated intervals was sent to Chicago where as faithful a body of women expended the same for the needs of the soldier that were so pressing. Committees were organized and the public called on to promise a regular weekly or monthly sum for the cause; clothing was solicited; many willingly brought out their hoarded old linen of a former day and tore it up for bandages or scraped it for lint; parties and entertainments were given, which everybody attended for the cause, and, in fact, such a wave of self-denial and sweet charity spread over (he country through its tender women, that it does the later generation good to hear of. One of the interesting celebrations in Grundy was the "Sanitary Fair" which was held on the grounds of the Grundy Agricultural Society. In a spacious dining hall. 100 feet long, people were served every day of the fair witli food contributed and cooked and served by the women of the county, and few indeed regretted the expenditure for so excellent a meal, when all the money was for the "soldier boys." Fruit, carefully canned and preserved, vegetables, hay, coal and cattle, all had been contributed, and from Minooka alone came twelve half barrels of pickles. It was a never to be forgotten occasion and large sums of money resulted through this great undertaking. The fathers, brothers, sons and husbands lighting on distant battlefields had this strong supporting army behind them and without tins cheering remembrance many would have fallen from other cause than a bullet. The women at home, in every war, how tragically noble they are.

The Spanish-Asiekican Wak

We cannot give any definite account of the part Grundy County took- in the Spanish- American war. Xo data that would lie of value to the reader seems available and it is probable that less than a dozen men of this section took part and they were not in organizations sent from Grundy County, State of Illinois, but were in the regular army,

In attempting to write the military or any history of Grundy and leaving out the name of Shabbona, would lie little short of sacrilege, as he and his name were familiar in every home of the earlier settlers of Grundy County and was as much a citizen as any one who enlisted in the United States service.

This celebrated Indian, Chief Shabbona C variously spelled), deserves more than a passing notice. Although he was not so conspicuous as Tecumseh or Black Hawk, yet. in point of merit, he was superior to either of them. Shablxma was born at an Indian village on the Kankakee River, now in Will County, about the year 1 77.".. While young he was made chief of the band and went to Shabbona Grove, now DeKalb County. In the War of 1S12 with his warriors be joined Tecumseh and was aid to that great chief, and stood by his side when he fell at die battle of the Thames in 1S13. In the Winnebago war, in IS-!), he visited almost every village among the Pottowattomies and by his persuasive arguments prevented them from taking part in the war. By request of the citizens of Chicago Shabbona, accompanied by Billy Caldwell (Sanayanash), visited Big Coot's village, at Geneva Lake, in order to pacify the warriors, as fears were entertained that they were about to raise the tomahawk against, the whites.

Here Shabbona was taken prisoner by ]'Aj: Foot and his life was threatened, hut on the following day lie was set at liberty. From that time on the Indians (through reproach) styled him "the white man's friend" and many times his life was endangered.

Before the Black Hawk war Shabbona met. in council at two different times and by his influence prevented his people from taking part with the Sacs and Foxes.

After the death of Black Partridge and Senachwine no chief among the Pottawatomies exerted so much influence as Shabbona. Black Hawk, aware of this, visited him at two different times in order to enlist him in his cause, bat was unsuccessful. While Black Hawk was a prisoner at Jefferson Barracks he said, had it not been for Shabbona, the whole Pottawatamie nation would have joined his standard and he could have continued the war for years. To Shabbona many of the early settlers of Illinois owe the preservation of their lives for it is a well known fact that had he not notified the people of their danger a large portion of them would have fallen victims to the tomahawks of the savages. By saving the lives of the whites he endangered his own, for the Sacs and Foxes threatened to kill him and made two attempts to execute their threats. They killed Pypeogee, his son, and Pyps his nephew, and hunted him down as if he was a wild beast.

Shabbona had a reservation of two sections of land at his grove, but, by leaving it and going west for a short time, it was declared forfeited and it was held the same as other vacant land. On Shabbona's return and finding his possession gone he was very sad and broken down in spirits and left the grove forever. The citizens of Ottawa raised money and bought him a tract of land on the Illinois River above Seneca, but in Grundy County on which they built a home and supplied him with means to live on. He lived here until his death which occurred on July i7, 1850, when he was in the eighty-fourth year of his age. He wa.s buried witli great pomp, in the cemetery at .Morris, Illinois. His Squaw, Pokanoka, was drowned in Mazon Creek. Grundy County, on the 3oth of November, 16GM, and was buried by his side. In 1SG1, subscriptions were taken up in many 01' the river towns for funds to erect a monument over the remains of Shabbona, hut the Civil War breaking out al that time caused the enterprise to he abandoned. Only a plain slab marks the resting place of this friend of the white man. The above is no fairy tale. The writer has sold Shabbona woolen blankets for himself and family in Grundy county, and his wife's grandfather was notified by Shabbona of Black Hawk's outbreak and was told to flee with his family for their lives, to the old log fort in Ottawa, LaSalle County, which they did. Some who did not heed (he warning suffered the consequences and lost their lives.

Chapter Xi 11 T1If Grand Army Of Tiif Republic

TXIE TATRIOTS OF 1801 - THEIR COURAGE, LOYALTY AM) ENDURANCE - ORGANIZATION OF Till: G. A. R. - THK LITTLE BRONZE BUTTON - TWO POSTS IN1 GRUNDY COUNTY - POST AT MORRIS A MEMORIAL OF A YOUNG HERO - POST AT GARDNER - WOMAN'S RELIEF CORPS - TIME THINS RANKS OF THE VETERANS.

Thk Patriots Of 1S01

Half a century ago hundreds of thousands of the very best men this country ever produced sprung to the defense of their flag. They left business interests and families to face possible death, and many never lived to return. Thousands of those who did. came back broken in health, crippled in body, but cheerful of spirit, for theirs had been a just cause and they had fought the good fight and come out conquerors. Their subsequent history forms one of the most important records of the country. Their suf- ferings will never be appropriately rewarded or appreciated, for none but those who had endured as tbey, can know that there was more bravery shown after the war by those who had to continue through life bowed down by the burdens their military experiences superimposed.

Organization Of The G. A. R.

Appreciating the fact that the veterans of the Oivil War needed an organization of their hind. The Grand Army of the Republic was organized, and its local and national reunions have, in a slight measure, compensated these brave men fur the indifference many have shown them. Foregathered with their comrades they can live over again those stirring days when they were the most important men in the hearts of the public; when upon their endurance and bravery hung the fate of a nation.

Every section of the country has its local post, although the members are gradually dying. Many years have elapsed since these men fought for their cause, and their experiences, the exposures, the rigors of army life and the frightful hardships of southern prisons, to say nothing of actual wounds received in the line of battle, have not made for a long life. Each year the little procession of veterans inarching on Memorial Day. shows inure vacant places until the time will come when all will have answered to the last roll call and be enrolled in the Army of the Infinite.

The Little B1Ionze Button

had already participated in the engagements of Warrington Junctiou, Fair Oaks from June 1 to 2S, ISG2, Peach Orchard, White Oak Swamp, Malvern Hill, Centerville, Charleston, Smieker's Gap, Fredericksburg, and others leading up to the one upon which lie fell mortally wounded after a gallant act in repelling Longstreet's awful charge on July 2. Darveau Post Xo. 329, G. A. It., was organized in 1SS3, by Gen. I'. C. Hayes. The present commander is John Thorson, and Henry Fey is quartermaster. There is another post at Gardner, known as Sedgwick, and the ladies of both cities give valued aid in their Relief Corps.

These two jKjsts hold the membership of veterans from all over Grundy County, and upon the day set aside for them, they attend to pay respi ct and show honor to their comrades who lie beneath the grassy mounds as far as their earthy habiliments go, but whose spirits have ascended into a life where their virtues are appreciated and their faults forgotten because of their heroism, for to pharaphrase a sacred Quotation :

Chapter Xiv Banks Axd Other Financial

The "little bronze button" not only signifies that its owner risked his life and limb in defense of the country we all love so dearly if we have a spark of patriotism in our bosoms, hut it also opens the hearts of those whose years are too few to have participated in the Civil War, or whose sex decreed that they were to remain behind, helping the cause with loving thought, brave-hearted singleness of sacrifice and endless prayers.

The G. A. R. post at Morris was named for a youth who laid down his life on the bloody field of Gettysburg, perhaps the most important of all the engagements of the entire war as it forever put an end to "northern invasion," and sounded the knell of the Confederacy. This lad from Morris was named Lewis Dimeras Darveau, but his comrades knew him as "Dim." He

EARLY FINANCES - A CHAJ GF. IN AFFAIRS - PRIVATE HANKS - STATE AND NATIONAL HANKS - FIRST HANKS - rRESFNT HANKING INSTITUTIONS IN GRUNDY COUNTY - HANKS OF MORRIS - OF GARDNER OF MINOOKA - OF VERONA OF MAZON OF

Kinsman Of Coal City Early Finance

When the pioneers reached Grundy County, they had hut little money left of the usually scanty amount, with Which they left their civilized homes in the more eastern States, so that they were not troubled by the fact that in the new territory there were no banking institutions. They bad left home rich in hope and faith, willing to labor earnestly and diligently, but with little of tin's world's goods. The majority of these pioneers traveled across the country in a wagon drawn either by horses or oxen. Money was not needed for the trip. The wagon carried supplies and if they ran out, any settler by the way was ready and willing to share what he bad with the wayfarers, for hospitality was a marked pioneers' virtue.

After making the required payment on his land, which in the early days was $1.25 per acre, it oftentimes was some years before money to any amount came into possession of the pioneer. He struggled to clear his land and put in the seed he had brought with him, and the scanty necessities required were obtained of the nearest trader in exchange for produce.

A Change In Affairs

However, as the county began to be settled, a change came about, many improvements were made, and the roads were better constructed so that the farmers found it. expedient and profitable to raise more and haul their products to the nearest market, receiving in payment money instead of bartering to supply their wants.

In each community there always was, and doubtless will he as long as human nature remains unchanged, one man who was a little more prosperous than his fellows. Perhaps he was more thrifty, at any rate he was a better business man, and to him the farmers began coming for accommodations. At first it was but a few dollars lent in a friendly way. Later larger amounts were involved, and thus the private banker was evolved.

In earlier days, the banks of Grundy County were all private institutions, and some still so remain. The business transacted was too small to justify any large investments and much of it was carried on in a neighborly manner, a simple promise being accepted. As more people came into the neighborhood, however, these friendly methods bad to be abandoned and strict business rules enforced and in time the private banks developed into state or national institutions. The present financial institutions of Grundy County have been built upon sound foundations and are in the bands of men of unusual strength of character and business experience. An immense amount of business is transacted annually and the rating of these banics is second to none of their size in the country.

First Banks

The first bank of which there is any mention in Grundy County was founded in 1S53 by 0. IT. and 11. C. Goold, and was located on the corner of Washington and Liberty Streets, Morris, where the Claypool building now stands. The firm continued to operate the haul; for some years, when, finding the business unprofitable, closed out, and the partners then devoted their time and energy to the real estate business.

E. W. & F. K. Hulburd opened a private bank in 1S57, in the Lott block, operating under the name of E. W. Hulburd & Co., and for a time did a large business, but failed in 1S61.

The next bank was founded in 1S58 by F. S. Gardner and C. R. Crumb as a private institution, but as they had neither capital nor experience, their venture proved a failure.

The year 18G0 saw the opening of another bank, by T. Hatton and bis son, of Joliet, in the office of the late C. II. Goold, but it only continued two years, when its doors were closed. Following this, D. D. Spencer came to Morris from Elkhorn, Wis., and in conjunction with the late \Y. C. llammill, established an exchange and diposit bank, which was operated until the summer of 1SG4, when it was merged with the Grundy County National Bank, then in process of organization.

The Gkundy County National Rank. - The first national bank to be organized in Grundy County was established September 1G, 1SG4, under the title of The Grundy County National Bank of Morris, HI., with a capital stock of $50,000, by Abel 1'. Bulkley, C. II. Goold, D. D. Spencer, John Holderman, Samuel Ilolderman, John Barr, Aaron Sears, John B. Davidson, William M. Ilanna, Dayton Kingman, and John

Hill, all of whom have passed away except Dr. William M. Hanna, now residing at Aurora, 111. At the first meeting of the stockholders the following persons were elected directors of the bank for the ensuing year: C. II. Goold. U. D. .Spencer, A. P. Bulkley, Aaron Sears, and Samuel Holderman. The Hoard of Directors then held a meeting and elected C. II. Goold, president, and D. D. Spencer, cashier. The above named officials continued to serve until January 14, 18GS, when D. 1). Spencer was elected president and Charles G. Bulkley, cashier. On October 3, -' 1SGS, Mr. Bulkley resigned as cashier, and on January 10, 1S71, J. II. Pettit was elected to fill the vacancy. D. D. Spencer sold his interest in the hank October 5, 1ST!, to C. G. Goold, who then succeeded him as president. On September 30, 1ST3, J. II. Pettit resigned as cashier, and on October 5, 1S71, J. C. Carr was elected to fill (he vacancy. With the death of Mr. Goold on June 22, 1S02, occurred a vacancy which was tilled by the election of Jeremiah Collins, who served as president until June 20. 1899, when he resigned and J. R. Collins was elected to fill his place. On July 20. 1001, J. It. Collins resigned the presidency, and was succeeded by O. E. Collins. The latter held the office until January 15, 1903, when he was succeeded by J. C. Carr, and at the same time J. W. McKindly was elected cashier, and E. G. Carr, assistant cashier. On September 10, 3902, by vote of the stockholders, the capital of the bank was increased from $73,000 to $100,000. The present Board of Directors of the bank are: J. A. Wilson, Cryder Collins, E. II. Wol ee, J. R. Collins and J. C. Carr. The officers are: J. C. Carr, president; Cryder Collins, vice president ; J. W. McKindly, cashier, and E. G. Carr, assistant cashier.

The First National Bank of Morris. - The First National Bank of Morris was organized in 1870 as the First National Bank of Seneca. Samuel Holderman was the first president, and the capital stock at incorporation was $."",0,000. In 1872 the bank was removed to Morris, and in 1874 the present name of The First National Bank of Morris was adopted. The capital stock was raised to $100,000. Later this amount was increased to $200,000, while the surplus is now $100,000. James Cunnea, Sr., succeeded Samuel Holderman as president, in 1872, retaining the presidency until his death in 1884, when John Cunnea, his son, was elected to fill his place. He is the present incumbent, having served the hank as president for over twenty-eight years. The present officers of the hank are: John Cunnea. president; George A. Cunnea, vice president; It. S. Cunnea, cashier, and Thomas J. Nolan, assistant cashier. The hoard of directors is composed of the following: John Cunnea, J. A. Cunnea. George A. Cunnea, M. A. Cunnea, and Ralph S. Cunnea.

Farmers & Merchants National Bank. - The Farmers & Merchants National Bank was organized February 20, 1000, with a capital stock of $100,000 and a surplus of $10,000. The first officials were: J. R. Collins, president; E. J. Matteson, vice president; Henry Stocker, cashier, and It. J. McGrath, assistant cashier. The first hoard of directors was composed of the following: J. R. Collins, E. J. Matteson, M. B. Wilson. S. H. Matteson, and William Gebhard. The present officers are: J. R. Collins, president; E. J. Matteson. vice president; Henry Stocker, cashier, and R. J. Mc- Grath, assistant cashier. The present hoard of directors is composed of the following: J. R. Collins, E. J. .Matteson, William Gebhard, S. II. Matteson, and M. II. Wilcox.

Exchange Bank. - The Exchange Hank of Gardner was established in 1S71 by Isaac Me- Clun and John Allison who continued in business as partners until 1S76, when Mr. McClun sold his interest to Mr. Allison. The latter continued the business alone until his death in 1SS9. At that time his son, Winfield S. Allison, succeeded him. The bank is operated as the Exchange Bank by W. S. Allison & Sons, the partners being Winfield S. Allison. Wade S. Allison, and John B. Allison.

Tin: First National Bank oe Gardner. - About 18S0, J. C. Lutz opened a private bank under the name of the Peoples Bank of Gardner. which he continued to operate until his death which occurred March 3, 1009. The bank was then closed and the account settled, the Lutz estate paying the depositors in full. On May 10, 1909, The First National Bank was organized with a capital stock of $25,000, with A. G. Perry, president; J. C. Lutz, vice president, and F. L. Root, cashier, who continue in office. The Board of Directors is composed of the following: A. G. Perry, J. C. Lutz, Jesse Ball, J. F. Scroggin, Frank Speller, C. C. Underwood, W. D. Ilowland.

Exchange Bank of Minooka. - This financial institution grew out of the need, on the part of the late A. K. Knapp, a capitalist of Minooka, for a banking institution through which he could transact hi-, various business deals, for he was extensively engaged along many lines. Not only was he a dty goods merchant, but lie bought and sold grain, lumber, coal and building supplies at. Minooka and the canal near Ohannahon. The beginnings of this bank date back as far as 1805. and while Mr. Knapp had partners in his various other enterprises, he conducted his bank alone. After the death of Mr. Knapp in 1904, his widow continued the business alone, and remains its executive head. The cashier. George Colleps, manages the affairs of the bank, with the assistance of M. G. Fluent, assistant cashier.

1908, with the following officers: J. P. Clennon, president; J. W. Dwyer, vice president, and I). A. ITenueberry, cashier. The original Board of Directors was as follows: ,T. P. Clennon, I. V. Cryder, M. K. Wix. George S. Baker, J. W. Dwyer. E. W. Matteson, and D. A. I-Ienneberry. According to a recent statement the condition of the hank is as follows: Capital stock, $25,- 000; surplus, $10,000; undivided profits, $2,500, and deposits of $180,000.

Peoples Bank of Mazon. - This hank was organized in 1SS9 by Clapp & Rankin, who continued together until 1S95, when Mr. Clapp assumed sole charge. In May, 1911. the bank was re-organized as the First National Bank with the following officers: F. II. Clapp, president; G. E. Clapp. cashier: A. J. Campbell, vice president, and the Board of Directors as follows: A. .7. Campbell, I. N. Misener, W. E. Davies. Fred Keith, F. A. Murray. H. Preston, F. II. Clapp. The capital stock at the outset was $35,000.00, and the surplus was $3,500.00. From a late statement the condition of the hank is as follows :

Verona

Verona Exchange Bank. - The Exchange Bank of Verona grew out of a hardware business owned hy Ileal & Renne, who in 1S9S branched out into an exclusive banking business. They commenced with a capital stock of $25,000, and a surplus of $2,000, which latter they have increased to $10,000. From initial deposits of $30,000, the business has grown until the average deposits aggregate over $100,000, with loans and discounts of $52,000.

Kinsman

Bank of Kinsman. - This hank was established in 1907 by .7. E. McGuire, the present proprietors, Cosgrove, O'Connell & Cosgrove, taking charge May 1, 1911. A late statement shows the following condition :

Coal C1Tt

The First National Bank or Coal Citt. - This bank was organized February 1, 1912, with William Campbell, president; Warham B. Short, vice president, and L. K. Young, cashier. The directors were: William Campbell, Warham B. Short, Henman B. Smith, John Trotter and William G. Suffem. During June of the same year, Mr. Short died, and John Trotter was appointed vice president, and Dr. F. A. Stoekdale was elected to fill his place on the Board of Directors. Prior to the organization of this hank, E. D. Scott carried on the Bank of Coal City, which he had opened in 1805. He died November 4. 1011.

Chapter Xv Prosperity Built On Manufacturing

Fortunate, indeed, may that community consider itself which embraces within its borders manufacturing interests of diversified scope and substantial character. The well-managed factory is a business stimulus; it is the prompting influence for commercial and industrial activity, inciting by its own prosperity achievements in other spheres of human endeavor. H may be said that the development of a locality's manufactories is a summary of the growth of the locality itself, for around these great industries arc gathered an army of men and their families, all connected in seme way with the community's development. Grundy County by no means occupies an inconspicuous place among her sister counties in the field of manufacture. Here, and particularly at Morris, owing to its desirable location and excellent railroad facilities, are gathered a number of manufacturing concerns, which supply not only the needs of the circumjacent, territory, but send their products to the people of far-distant states. These include a wide range of commodities, worthy of comparison with those of any section of the country and produced by the highest .skilled mechanical power, under 1 lie direction of trained and fertile business brains.

PROSPERITY' BUILT ON MANUFACTURING - NUMEROUS PLANTS IN GRUNDY COUNTY" - EARLY' CONCERNS - MORRIS PLOW COMPANY' - ANDERSON CAR WHEEL COMPANY - MORRIS CUTLERY COMPANY' -

In most communities, and particularly in the agricultural regions, factories are among the last of the business industries to put in an appearance, (heir promoters delaying their establishment until the population has assumed proportions that warrant the expenditure of the money necessary for their undertaking. Hence, the early history of the greater number of localities, as-connected with manufacture, lies in the memories of those who lived at a time when the skilled housewife and the sturdy husbandman created their own necessities, the limit of their comforts being set by their fertility of resource and the materials at hand. It would seem, however, that the people of Grundy County were somewhat more progressive than those of neighboring localities, although tin's may be explained by the inducements offered by a section fortunate in its location.

As early as 1S57 Grundy County became the home of a large manufacturing enterprise, and from that time to the present has rapidly grown and developed. In the year mentioned there was located here the plant of the Morris Plow Company, at Morris, but. although its product was good, the demand for it was small, and the company went out of existence after a brief life. In is?."., the enterprising business men of Morris, realizing the benefit that would accrue from the influx of outside capital, offered a substantia] bonus to manufacturers who would locate their plants here, and during the several years that followed S19.000 were spent by the city, with the result that the Sherwood School Furniture Company established its works near the canal on the west side of the city, this concern later becoming the Ohio Butt Company. and later the Coleman Hardware Company.

In the line of grain, the late Thomas Phillips was one of the earliest of Morris" business men, and for nearly forty years carried on large operations on the Illinois & Michigan Canal, at all times commanding the respect and confidence of the many Grundy County farmers with whom he had transactions. A pioneer concern in this line and locality was the Anderson Car Wheel Company, which for many years furnished a profitable market for all the oats and rye straw in the county and had its plant and offices at Morris. Another company, which for a long period enjoyed a prosperous business life, was the Morris Cutlery Company, which manufactured eighty-four varieties of pocket knives. It was incorporated with a capita] of $15,000, by M. W. Steiner, George Riddle, L. F. Beach. Drs. Palmer and Ferguson, M. K. Keller. J. II. Pettit, A. YY. Crawford, and Albert and William Smith, the last two named being cutters who came from Sheffield, England.

Coleman Hardware Company

To the Coleman Hardware Company must be given the credit of being one of the oldest manufacturing industries of Morris. Hacked by men of substantial worth, brains and business experience, it lias steadily grown and developed until it now plays a most important part in the city's industrial life. Few concerns enjoy a higher reputation in business circles and much of the prestige which Morris has gained as a center of manufacture must be accredited to this company's activities. That the people of Morris appreciate this fact is evidenced by the precedence the company is given when the city's interests are named. The plant of this concern Mas first established in 1S67, under the name of the Hall Furniture Company, this being succeeded by the Morris Iron Works, and the latter by the Sherwood School Furniture Company. A conflagration destroyed the plant, following which the Ohio Butt Company secured the business, and under this style the enterprise was conducted for several years. At the end of tins time, J. G. Coleman, progressive and experienced business man who had been connected with a number of Chicago ventures, purchased the stock of the Ohio Butt Company, and from that time to the present its growth has been constant and healthy, and it is now numbered among the largesl institutions of its kind in the country. The Coleman Hardware Company manufactures all kinds of hardware specialties, but its chief products are furniture casters and sash pulleys, and more of these articles are manufactured here than in any other plant in the United States, while the excellence of its work has giveu the concern a national retaliation. The entire output of several firms is manufactured here, and the products of the company are known to practically every civilized country in the world. The handsome and substantial plant, occupying more than an entire block and including the most highly improved machinery and equipment, at once attracts the attention of the visitor. It is under the capable management of Edward Wainwright, who has been connected with the company for many years in various capacities and for three years has been superintendent, while Mr. Coleman maintains his office in Chicago, from whence he directs the company's activities. At different times of the year the plant employs from 150 to 250 men, including a num- severance, industry and ability of 1 ants. From a small and inc man plant, with primitive machinery and unz own and nourished and nurtured b; the ties fel. Sr.. and another early pioneer. - and aside fr I ir labors the work required the employment of only two r three hands. From the : -unwinding untryside hides were obtained for all tl t her - ' another field of activity. Mr. Woelfel. however. had faith in his enterprise, in himself and in the community in which he w - lo I. and soon formed a partnership with Charles Sparr. father of William Sparr, the well-known Morris dealer in shoes and harness. At that time Charles S;«rr was the proprietor of the harness and shoe shop, and the partnership with Mr. Woelfel was formed with the belief that the product of the tannery could l>e profitably at ized in the home consumption of the leather necessary for the retail trade in shoes and harness at Mr. Sparr*s stere. This arran? was shown to be a wise one for the time, as evidenced by a sn ssful the years that followed the plant - ad prospered and from ten to fifteen hands needed to produce the goods to n growing demand. In 1SS0 Mr. Woelfel and Mr.

finishing room and a coat and robe department. The firm manufactures what is known as the Galloway robe, a very superior article, for which there is a great demand, and a specialty is made of russet and colored leathers for the trunk, bap- and leather specialty trade, and special leathers for the harness and saddlery trade. The company manufactures Goodyear welting. Kangaroo side leathers and viscolized leathers in all colors and blacks, and poods are sold in Japan, Cuba. England, Germany and other European countries, while special representatives are located in London, England, and Frankfort, Germany, and distributing and sales stores are maintained at Chicago, Boston and New York. The plant lias a capacity of 1.000 sides of leathers a day. The buildings are of brick, mill construction, equipped with automatic sprinklers, and the plant is protected with two elevated tanks containing 40.000 gallons of water and an automatic fire pump with a capacity of 1,000 gallons per minute. The latest and most approved machinery has been procured, a 22f> horsepower Bullock electric engine having been recently installed, this doing away with shafting, belts and pulleys. In every respect the business of the Woelfel Leather Company is one of which the citizens of Morris may well be proud, and the large interests which it represents are constantly contributing to the city's prosperity.

Morris Lumber Company

One of the most important industries which may be contributing factors in the upbuilding and development of a community is that which deals with its lumber interests. Few business enterprises have such a direct bearing upon its growth. In, this line, as in others. Grundy County is well represented and has been since the early '70s when a lumber yard was established on Canal Street, near the present location of the Morris Lumber Company. The founder continued in business for a few years and then disposed of bis interests to Raymond & Wertz, who later sold out to Pattison & Goold, With the retirement of Mr. Goold of this firm, the company adopted the style of the Pattison Lumber Company, and as such it continued until 1S07, when F. L. Stephen and C. B. Moure secured control of the enterprise and changed the name to the Morris Lumber Company. L. S. lloge purchased Mr. Moore's interest in 1001, but since that time has left the concern, and the sole proprietor is 1". L. Stephen, a man of excellent business talents, acumen and energy, a strong "booster' in behalf of his city's interests, and a man who stands high in the esteem of his associates. He has continued to main tain a high standard of business integrity in bis operations, and the yard has enjoyed a constantly increasing business, adding year by year to the stock, which now includes mere than seven hundred thousand feet of lumber, covered by largo and substantia] shelter sheds, and equipped with the mosl modern appliances for (he convenient handling of large orders.' The concern deals also in hard coal, sewer pipe and miscellaneous builders' supplies. Its growth is indicative of the spirit of progress that has characterized Moore's most successful indust ries.

Holding prestige as one of tin; oldest concerns of Grundy County, the 1. X. It. Beatty Lumber Company has enjoyed a steady growth and development since its inception in 1SS4, when it was founded by Thomas II. Ross, who located its yards in a convenient situation along the right of way of the Chicago, Hock Island & Pacific Railroad. Some years later 1. N. R. Beatty was taken into the firm, which was incorporated in 1901, and after Mr. Uoss' death Mr. Beatty and George Colthurst conducted the business under its present style, but later Mr. Colthurst retired from the business. A specialty is made of putting up houses on monthly payments, and in addition to a full stock of lumber the firm handles Portland and natural cement, and makes a specialty of high grade shingles. The yards and sheds cover two blocks, and there may be seen one of the largest lumber sheds in the state, measuring SO by 250 feet, and having a capacity of over a million feet of lumber. The policy of the company has always been the maintaining of a hjgh standard of business ethics, and its substantial reputation in the business world has had a favorable influence upon the industrial prosperity of the city. Mr. Beatty, president of the firm, is an astute business man. thoroughly alive to every opportunity and possessed of a comprehensive knowledge of every detail of the business. He is popular with the members of the trade, and is eminently competent to handle the reins of management of oik- of liis city's most promi- management have brought it to a proud posinent and constantly growing concerns. tion among the city's business firms, and its in 1ST.", by the founder of the business, Mr. Me- Located in the center of a great grain .crow- Kwen, and in 1SS0 M. X. Hull purchased an ing country, and with excellent transportation interest. Later Nels Nelson succeeded Mr. Me facilities, it is not unnatural that the City of Ewen, and the firm operated under the style Morris should maintain a thriving grain market. of Hull & Nelson until Mr. Nelson's death in Yet its prestige in this field of activity rests 1901. Two years later (he firm of M. N. Hull not alone upon the market itself, but among & Son was formed, when Mr. Hull's son, M. the strong, capable and forceful men who have Bert Hull, became a partner, and this style concontributed to the development of this, one of tinned until the business was taken over bv the its greatest industries. One of the foremost of Square Deal Grain Company, the present owner, the firms which have maintained this market is a concern formed of capable and progressive the Morris Grain Company, which was orig- Grundy County farmers. The original elevator inally organized in 1S95, and started in what was destroyed by fire, in May, 1901, hut before was known as the "old Lane elevator." on West the ashes had cooled work on the new structure Canal Street. Lacked by men of sterling ability, had commenced, and within a period of ten it rapidly extended the scope of its operations weeks the house was ready for receiving grain, throughout Grundy County, and within the pass- Once more tire claimed it. several years atto, ing of a year's time it was found Unit the and the present cement elevator was built in original quarters were not adequate to accommo- 1913. This elevator is a thoroughly modern one date the machinery necessary to carry on the in every respect, with an immense capacity, and growing business. Accordingly, the new eleva- the business is typically representative of tor was erected, on the canal, at Canal and Grundy County energy and enterprise. Franklin streets, at that time one of the largest substantiality and its position in the business p(eol structure, seven stories high, with, a thorworld of Morris is firmly established. oughly fire-proof boiler room in the rear. To

, _ , .. ,. . . , ,.,,., bottling houses. '1 he business in the bottling and find it one of the best equipped establishments of its kind in this part of the state, find Apartment has increased to such an extent that it hard to believe that comparatively a few lt has been found necessary to make numerous years ago this was a modest, unassuming ven- additions. Nothing but the purest material is Lire, its operations confined to supplying the »scc1 '" the. manufacture of this brewery's prodneeds of the immediate community. Business net, and as a result it has attained a wide repuenterprise, progressive methods and capable tation which has redounded to Morris' credit.

Mobris Oatmeal Company

It would be difficult to discover in (his or any other section of the country an enterprise which lias enjoyed more rapid or satisfactory growth than that which lias attended the .Morris Oatmeal Company. Handled with rare ability by men of recognized business and administrative powers, within the short space of twelve years its trade has assumed astounding proportions and probably none of the city's industries have proved more beneficial to its material welfare. In July, 1012, ground was broken for the erection of the plant of this concern, and so rapidly were the buildings erected that by November of the same year the plant was in operation. This consists of a mill and packing building of brick, four stories high, TO by SO, brick, engine, boiler and kiln drying rooms, frame crib construction, steel-covered elevator of 100,000 bushels capacity, warehouse. 100 by 100, frame cooper shops and stock sheds, and brick office building. The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway runs double tracks into the property, and side-tracks, grounds and buildings are all enclosed with a tight, high board fence The power plant includes high pressure tubular boilers and a compound condensing Buckeye engine of 250 horsepower, the buildings are equipped with, a thorough automatic sprinkler system, and every precaution is taken against fire. At the time of its inception the mill produced M00 barrels of rolled oats, but its production at this time is many times that amount, and includes rolled cats, pearl barley and mill feed. Marketed under the company's own brands, the products of this industry have a large sale in every state of the Union and in most European countries. The plant was founded here by W. G. Norton, who had a wide experience in milling, and who carefully looked over the country before deciding to make Morris the home of his enterprise. In 1001 the Morris Oatmeal Company was formed by Mr. Norton and Conrad Elerding, and in the following year the construction of the plant was under way, as above noted. This company has always paid the highest market price to farmers for oats. barley, corn and wheat, a policy which has greatly enlarged the grain market of Morris, farmers frequently hauling grain a distance of twenty miles in order to secure the favorable returns. It probably has been, however, the extensive free advertising given by this company to the city that has so greatly benefitted Morris. The packages of rolled oats and barley, bearing the name of the city, are on thousands of grocers' shelves all over the country, and the name, "Morris, 111..'' has become familiar to consumers of cereals all over the United .States and foreign countries.

In the Morris Industrial Association, the City of Morris has an organization which has been of the utmost value in the development of its manufacturing interests, the encouragement of trade and the advancement of industries. Its members are men of public spirit, who have taken a pride in their city and its achievements and who have labored faithfully and disinterestedly towards the betterment of business conditions. The associatiou was formed and incorporated in the fall of 1000 by one hundred of the leading business and professional men of Morris, with the avowed purpose of promoting manufacturing enterprises and inducing outside capital to come to the city. The first officers were: Henry II. l'.aum, president; I. N. R. Realty, secretary ; Fred L. Stephen, vice president ; and Henry Stocker, treasurer, the above officials forming the board of directors with William Sparr, Edgar Woelfel and Orville T. Wilson. The association purchased thirty acres of land from Joseph Fells, of Philadelphia, for $12,500, and thirty acres from J. D. Owens, for $7,500, located in East Morris, and a portion of this they platted into '211 lots and sold to citizens of Morris tor $5G.00O, in order to raise a fund for operating expenses. Immediately after securing this amount, the association entered into contracts with 11k- Sinclair Laundry and Machinery Company, of Chicago, to move its factory to Morris, the former agreeing to construct for the latter a modern factory building and to deed it to the company at the termination of five years, provided the company paid in wages an amount aggregating $400,000 for the five years. The building was completed and the company look possession in the summer of 1010. but the venture proved unsuccessful and in the spring of 1011 the company went into bankruptcy. This business was purchased from the trustee in bankruptcy by John T. Berge, vice president of the Adams Laundry and Machinery Company, of Troy, N. Y., and Walter Luke, president of the Luke Laundry and Machinery Company, of Chicago, who pro- who have made Grundy County's ruanufacturposed to carry it on. Still later one-half of ing history- Obstacles have not deterred them, this building was leased to the Johnson & Carl- misfortunes have not discouraged them. Steadson Cut Glass Company, which moved its plants lastly they have maintained their faith in the from Chicago and a point in Indiana, and is community, and loyally have they supported its now operating very successfully. The other interests. Their reward comes uot only in mahalf of the building was sold to the Northwest- terial accumulations, but in the satisfying era Novelty Company, and this concern is also knowledge that they belong to a class which doing a large business. has nu superior in the upbuilding of a manufacturing center known around the world- -that railroad promotion they iiave builded and builded well, and that

Zimmerman, representing the Hon. II. II. Evans to sterling American energy and prowess. of Aurora ami promoter of the proposed line of the Fox, Illinois & Union Electric Railroad, to secure the rights of way between Morris and Yorkville, an undertaking accomplished in the course of three months during the summer of 1911. This is a northern outlet and it is proposed to build a southern one through Mason

Considerable tile is manufactured in different parts of Grundy County which are mentioned in the articles pertaining to their special localities. At one time pottery was manufacmistic that this product would prove very profitable, but the industry is now dead.

Discovery of coal in Grundy County brought many miners from all mining countries and considerable money was invested in developing the mines. About them sprung up villages that, gave promise of developing into cities, but these dreams were never to be realized, as the mine owners soon discovered that the veins, while mittee, of which J. \Y. McKindly of the Grundy County Bank was chairman. The association still owns about seven acres of the original purchase, which il is holding for factory sites. The dominant figure in the association has been its president. Henry II. Baum, who has remained loyal to its interests and steadfast in his endeavors to maintain the high and worthy aims profitable. Mining by hand was discovered to A paper mill- bad been started some years tie too expensive for competition with machineago. This concern met with many reverses, operated mines. Therefore, all hough the coal until, through the efforts of the association, the remains, but few mines are new in operation Morris Fiber Board Company was brought to and they only to supply a local demand. A this old site. The company, which manufac- more complete history of the coal industry will tures box boards, was organized February 15, he found in another article.

but employment is given to a fair number of employes, and it is the intention of the management to enlarge upon the production capacity of the plant within a short time. II. I>.

devoted to that place. All along the line of the railroads bisecting Grundy County are to he seen elevators and stock pens, from which are shipped the agricultural products of Grundy enemies have written that they were trustpride of ancestry - rugged country, rugged worthy ; and that their promises could be relied PEOPLE - THE VIKING - a cruel WARRIOR BUT upon. If they said "Yes," they meant "Yes;" honorable victor - Norwegians settle in if they said "No," they meant "No." lie was a the united states i.\ 1G24 - SWEDES came IN cruel warrior, but an honorable victor. 163S - Norwegians settleu in new yoKK in Thus says the historian, and whether we

1825 - in Illinois in 1S27 - first scandina- have inherited those virtues indicated, namely, VIA-n settlers here - remarkable i.oxgevity bravery, tumor and honesty, and displayed them - surprising growth in numbers and in ;1 practical way in the battle of life thus far, wealth - characteristics of the scandina- the reader is selected to be the judge. Vian - tribute to mothers and granumothers The Scandinavia ns came in their Viking end to the intercourse between Scandinavia, I am reminded at this moment of the old Iceland and this country, and the people in saying. - If a man boasts of his ancestry. "Steer those settlements who did not die, mixed will) shy of him." "There is a screw loose in him." the Indians.

knowledge I have of our Scandinavian an- 1G20; the Swedes in their Hjelmar Nyckel, in cestors" history, I could say a great deal in their 103$. so the Norwegians came in their little praise, I .am too modest to say they average sloop called Restorationen (the Restoration), in better than most foreigners who have come to 1S2">. The Swedes settled along the Delaware this country and by their frugality and industry River in Pennsylvania permanently, and do not have their homes. figure in this short history, neither does a party

We are not "shy on ancestors," like "Torchy ;" tied in New Jersey permanently. Those who neither have we mislaid our family history; came over in the Sloop, which sailed from and I am of the opinion, that while good ances- Stavanger, Norway, on (lie 4th of July, 1825, try may not us a rule, be considered real work- settled around Rochester, N. Y., hut a few of ing capital, it can safely he counted among our them drifted to Mission Township. La Salle gilt-edged assets. It has been said by some County, 111., in 1S37. I mention this, because one, "Rugged country, rugged people." and be- La Salle County included the present territory lieving that the author of that sentiment of Grundy and Kendall counties at that time; meant physically only. I think I dare say in and Grundy County was not organized till connection with the matter in hand, that it four years later, in 1841.

defiant courage, and vital power, and exercised first landholder in the territory above nienboth. tioned, and built the first log house in Mission

Township La Salle County. This farm is still real estate in Morris ami Gardner, $710 000- occupied by one of her descendants (she. having personal property over $2,500,000- total" SS -

South West Quarter Section No. 33, Town 3,, total value of property held and owned bv the a ''' "u ' M' American citizens of Grundy County of Scandinavian birth, including the investments made first Scandinavian settlers by them in the Northwest the past few years, settlo in the county after its organization (in 1S41). They came from Skonevik, Bergens Stift, Norway. Immigration from Scandinavia to Grundy County from 1S57 to the close of the The hard struggle for existence in the land Civil war was nearly, if no, quite, at a stand- 0f their birth had taught then, habits of instill, hut it soon increased, and reached its dustr.v and rigid economy, and this has been of high-water mark between lS72.and 1SS3. immense benefit to them in their new home, Although 1 intended to mention only the and while the Scandinavian American citizens names ot the very first Scandinavian settlers of 0f Grundy County and elsewhere have adapted Grundy County by name, I am persuaded to themselves to their new surrounding, and have mention a family of four brothers who came become as lmK.,, Americanized as anv of . Into Grundy County in 1S37, and who are still country's foreign population, they all look with hung and comparatively active. They came peculiar fondness on the land of their birth his first home made in Grundy County. From They have not been camp-followers in the the fact that their father lived to the ripe old civilization of this county or in the great age of one hundred and three years, and taking Northwest, but have marched in the forefront their present condition of health and activity and borne their full share of toil hardship and into consideration, they seem to have several danger. And the women, our mothers and years to stay with us yet. grandmothers. God bless them, were worthy con- In 1S6G, when the writer, in September of sorts of the men who laid the giants of the that year, settled in the City of Morris, the forests low. and made the wilderness blossom county-seat of Grundy County, there were only as the rose. Theh. loi]|s were girded wi(h a total of twenty persons of Scandinavian birth strength, and they knew nothing of that tired m the city. At this writing (1012) they con- feeling.

our digestion with mince pie and rich salad, but gave us wholesome and toothsome coarse food, the kind of food on which a hundred general ions of Scandinavian seamen and mountaineers have heen raised. If the story of their pioneer life could he told, it would be of intense interest, but it would require a master to draw the correct picture which would show the different scenes in detail, and I am of the opinion that personal experience only could fully tell the tale.

A great majority of the old settlers have laid down the weapons of their warfare, and the weather-stained marble marks their resting place in the valley or hillside. Their grandsons have gray hair now, and one by one, the grandson's family are leaving him, and he, soon must give away to his children. Our fathers who weathered the storm are gone. The claims they staked are cultivated and beautiful farms. The fields they fenced crudely with rails are now enclosed with the modern wire fence. The cabins they erected hare given place to proud modern residences, and the slab schoolhouse and log church have shrunk out of sight, and twostory academy buildings and spired temples have risen in their stead.

A Perfected Inheritance

All this is right. Our inheritance is perfected: but, let us not stop here, and let us not create new necessities out of our pride. It is our favored lot to be pioneers in a wider life: to lay the foundations for a noble future, and happy is the man of the observing mind, who labors for intelligence, as his forefathers labored for lands, and helps to make truth and character as prominent in generations to come. as the claim fence, and the log cabin were, in the generations that are past.

Future

The soil of Grundy County is peculiarly adapted to agricultural purposes, and some of the finest and most productive farms of the state are to be found within its borders. In addition to grains, hay and fruits, grazing is carrier; on extensively, many of the farmers specializing in high-grade stock, that frequently receives ribbons at different stock exhibits. The live stock of Grundy County is according to the latest obtainable estimates as follows: horses, - 10.099, value $77G.GS5; cattle. 11,345, value $345,795; mules, 5S4, value $41,040; sheep. 1,454, value $4,500; and hogs. 7,020, value $51,075. The transportation facilities are such that the produce is easily marketed, and there is a constant demand for larger shipments.

When the pioneers came to Grundy County, land could be obtained from the government for $1.25 an acre. Much of it was almost worthless at the time, owing to the swampy condition of the county, but modern methods of drainage and cultivation have resulted in a wonderful increase in values, for the same property that was obtained at so low a price is now held at from $200 to $250 per acre.

Perhaps no county in the state has more progressive farmers than those of Grundy, and the machinery and appliances bought and put into constant use are of the mos< improved character. It is the rule rather than the exception for the farmers to have automobiles, and telephones are a necessity, having long ago ceased to be a luxury in this county.

Some of the agriculturalists are experimenting with crops, and there is no doubt but that the results of this line of endeavor will prove profitable to the county at large. There is a small plot of ginseng at Mazon which is worth more than many an aere of corn or oats, and if it can be demonstrated that this Chinese plant can be successfully raised in Grundy County, a new avenue will be opened for the farmer.

Owing to tin.' moisture of the soil, wheat is not produced in large quantities, but oats are profitable, and "Corn is King." From the fertile land of Grundy County come bumper crops of the staple product of the Middle West. The towQring elevators along the railroads are a feature of Grundy County scenery, and their

Considerable impetus lias been given scientific agriculture by the County Fair Association. Several unsuccessful attempts had been made to establish such an association upon a firm foundation, and to awaken the interest in tliis most important matter, but it was not until 1903 that any real encouragement was given those who had the affairs of the county truly at heart. In that year some of the publicspirited men of .Ma/on succeeded in holding a colt show, on the streets of the village, and were successful to such a degree, that the following year they branched out and held a horse show for all breeds. In 1000 the Grundy County Agricultural Association held iis first fair, ami from then on these fail's have been an annual event. The association which is composed of forty-eight stockholders has its own grounds, which are particularly well adapted for the -purpose for which they are used. These comprise ten acres of land, containing exhibition grounds, stationary buildings, including the grand stand, and stock sheds, and a fine diamond upon which the mettle of various baseball teams is tried out. The grandstand which cost .$.1,000 holds 2.000 people, is one of the best in several counties. The other buildings are kept in excellent condition, and the exhibitors of stock are afforded generous accommodations.

It would he difficult to over estimate the effect that this movement has upon tin- advancement of agricultural interests in this section. The fanners are encouraged to produce the finest specimens of stock and grains, while their meeting, as they do each year, gives them all new ideas which when developed individually, result in many remarkable changes in methods and processes, all of which eventually work out to the betterment of the county as a whole. The social features of the fair are strong factors as well, and it would be difficult to imagine a time when the people of Grundy County would permit the venture of the Ma/.on residents to languish or fail.

Taking them all in all, the agriculturalists of Grundy County must he numbered among - the most progressive of the state. They conduct their properties so as to make them yield immense crops, ami yet so conserve their soil as to prevent its being impoverished, through rotation of crops and proper fertilization.

The installation of the telephone, the bisecting of the county by interurban railway lines, and the circulation of papers and magazines, together with the rural free delivery am! parcel post service, have all contributed to (he advancement of the farmer here, as elsewhere in Illinois and other states. With the automobile, has come rapid transit between the farms and nearby towns as well as with Joliet and Chicago, and the agriculturalists and their families of these opportunities, but have been developed accordingly until they stand in the foremost ranks of the successful and wealthy people of the Prairie State.

Chapter Xviii

AN INTERESTING SPECULATION - REALIZED LACK OF TRANSPORTATION - PLANS FOR A GREAT WATERWAY - ESTIMATED COST - ILLINOIS AND MICHIGAN CANAL ASSOCIATION - CHARTER SECURED

Canal An Interesting Speculation

111 reviewing the fundamental causes which bring about far-reaching results, it is often interesting to speculate upon what might have happened if those causes had never come into being. Had it not been the aim and ambition of public-spirited men to connect Lake Michigan and the Illinois River by an artificial channel, and if others had not insisted that the county seat of the then proposed Grundy County be located at some point upon the canal, Morris might not have come into being, or if it had been located at another place, its history would probably have been different. Deprived of the transportation facilities afforded by the canal and the Illinois River, it would never have developed into the shipping center it has, nor would as many manufacturing plants have been located hero were it not fur the fact that water power was plentiful, and the products of the factories could be easily and cheaply marketed.

However as it may lie, long before any settlement, was made in what later became Grundy County, some years before Illinois was admitted to the Union, and Chicago was but an Indian trading post, far-sighted men realized that in the coming years there would arise a demand for a highway by means of which freight and human beings could be transported from the harbor at Fort Dearborn to the Father of Waters. They did not then know that the future held wonderful inventions which would connect the oceans, and that the land could be utilized for transportation purposes much better than the water, and, not knowing, they built according to their knowledge, and the result was a powerful factor in the development and advancement of the territory through which it passed.

Plans For A Cheat Waterway

As early as 1812 the project of connecting the waters of Lake Michigan with those of the Illinois River had engrossed the progressive men of not only the military service, but those of private life as well. From time to time the importance of this work was urged, and on July 1, ISoG, ground was broken, the original survey connecting with the eastern arm of the south branch of the Chicago River, following the general line of the Desplaines and Illinois rivers to Peru, where it was to pass by locks into the river. The original cost was estimated at a sum varying from six hundred and forty thousand to ten million dollars, the latter figures more nearly approximating the actual cost than the former.

Illinois And Michigan Canal Association

The Illinois and Michigan Canal Association was formed in lS2o, with a capital of :?1, 000,000, and its members secured a charter that allowed extraordinary privileges. Daniel I'. Cook, who was the only representative of Illinois in the Lower House, was then endeavoring to secure a grant of the land for canal purposes, and he realized that this charter would defeat his aims, as Congress would naturally be indisposed to aid a scheme which already had sc- demonstrate.

Grant Of Land

While this grant was generous, no money could be obtained from it, and matters dragged, although by January 1, 1S39, $1,400,000 hud been spent upon the canal without appreciable results. With the exception of about twenty-three miles which lay between Dresden and Marsailles, the whole canal was let out to contractors, but values had become inflated, ami the state was so embarrassed financially that work had to lie abandoned for a time. When the state bank failed in 1S12, further trouble was experienced in continuing work on the canal. About this time, Jacob Claypool, of Grundy County, took the contract for the unlet portion of the canal, where the aqueduct was later built, actively resuming operations in 1845, and completed the work in is is.

Morris is the only town in Grundy County that is located upon the canal, and much discussion took place before the matter was finally settled. It lies along the canal, the Illinois River being beyond, and in the early days, a large amount of freight was carried upon it. With the development of the railroad service, some of this commerce was diverted from the canal, but it is still in active use.

Chapter Xix The Masonic Fraternity

Orient Royal Arch Chapter, No. 31, was constituted October 2", 1S56, with Franklin K. Hulburd, L. P. Lott, P. M. Atherton, Nathan B. Dodson, E. W. Lusk, C. p. Pannelee, Leonard Ashton, George Piddle and George Fisher as charter members.

P.laney Connnandery No. 5, Knights Templar, was chartered October 20, 1858. Until 185S Apollo Connnandery No. 1, of Chicago, Belvidere Connnandery No. 2. at Alton, and Peoria Connnandery were the only commanderies in Illinois. E. W. Lusk and F. K. Hulburd were both Knight Templars and desired after locating at Morris to found a connnandery there. In order to comply with the requirements they secured the co-operation of Rt. Eminent Sir Hosmer A. Johnson, who later became P. E. Grand Commander of the Grand Connnandery of Illinois, and after some difficulty occasioned by the desire of the Masons of Joliet to establish a commander}' at that point. Grand Commander Sir Knight P.laney granted a dispensation so that Joliet Connnandery No. 4 of Joliet and P.laney Connnandery No. 5 of Morris, were born on the same day, the former being constituted by Grand Commander Blaney on March IS, 1S5S, and the latter on the following day, with these Sir Knights: N. D. Elwood, T. Hatton, Jr., W. W. Mitchell, E. W. Lusk, E. Wilcox, C. E. Munger, F. K. Hulburd, E. Bean, James IT. Miles, T. Hatton, Sr., and E. J. Higgins.

On the day of the constitution of Blaney Commandery the following Companions of Orient Royal Arch Chapter No. 31 received the orders of Christian Knighthood conferred in said Commandery: George Fisher, E. W. Hulburd, L.-P. Lott, P. A. Armstrong, William B. Grcnell, J. W. Massey, Charles II. Goold, Uriah B. Couch, George Dimon, Charles P. Pannelee, John Gibson, Jr., and B. M. Atherton. The first Eminent Commander was Sir Knight Franklin K. Hulburd, who served during 1S5S,

1S59, 1860 and 1SG1. He was succeeded by Sir Knight. Arnold M. Cleveland, who was in office until 1870. The third Eminent Commander was Sir Knight Perry Austin Armstrong, who was succeeded in 1872 by Sir Knight Charles H. Goold. In 1879, Sir Knight Lafayette Beach succeeded Sir Knight Goold, and continued in office until 1SS4. In 1885, Sir Knight Leander Irons was made Eminent Commander and he served until 1S8S, and in that year Sir Knight Joseph II. Pettit came into the office. The following year Sir Knight Lorenzo E. Daniels was made Eminent Commander, and he served until 1S93, when Sir Knight David Nickel succeeded him. In 1895, Sir Knight Henry Stocker was made Eminent Commander and his term of office embraced the years 1S95 and 1S9G, when Sir Knight William Sparr succeeded him and served during 1S97 and 1S9S. During 1800, Sir Knight Claude S. Magner was Eminent Commander, in 1900 Sir Knight J. Arthur Pool succeeded him and served until June 30, 1901, when Sir Knight Morris Magner became Eminent Commander and held the office until June 30, 1902. On that date, Sir Knight Henry Clay Claypool was elected, and held the office for a year. Sir Knight John Pay was Eminent Commander during Phi::. 1904 and 1905, while Sir Knight George L. Woelfel held the office during 1905, lOOG and 1907, and in 1907 Sir Knight Austin J. Smith was made Eminent Commander. Commander Smith was succeeded by Sir Knight Henry c. Claypool, but the latter died while conducting his first services in that office. This sudden ending of the life of one of Morris' admired and leading men. who at that time was also serving as postmaster, plunged all of Grundy County into mourning, and although many years have elapsed since then, it is almost impossible to talk at any length with one of those who bad the honor of association with Mr. Claypool. without hearing mention of his death. Sir Knight George Bedford succeeded him. and in 1910, Sir Knight Fred S. Johnson held that office. The Eminent Commander in PHI was Sir Knight Harry N. Ferguson, while in 1012, Sir Knight George II. Weitz was elected, and be in turn was succeeded by Sir Knight Herman Bressee. In 1914, Sir Knight II. P. Smith became Eminent Commander.

block to the Gebhard block, a new building completed that season. A third story was added by the builder at the suggestion of members of the Masonc fraternities of Morris, and at the time of completion, a lease was executed to Cedar Lodge No. 124 for the entire third floor and a portion of the second floor for a long term of years, the Commandery being a sub-tenant of the lodge. The division of the space of the third floor was made under the supervision of committees from the lodge, chapter and commandery, providing a large audience room, three commodious parlors each opening into the other and in connection with the armory, making a corridor surrounding the audience hall. There are also reception, preparation, wardrobe and smoking rooms Which, together with a large dining room and kitchen on the second floor, provide the fraternities with very comfortable, convenient and pleasant apartments which are suitably furnished. From time to time as needed, the rooms have been renovated, refurnished and modernized, and are in fine condition.

The Masonic representation of Gardner is as follows: Gardner Lodge, No. 573, A. F. & A. If., was organized May 24, 1SG6, and received its charter October <:. ISGS. The charter members were: 1. P. Benson, W. II. Shooinaker, Ed. Crane, J. \\\ Hull, Amos Clover. W. \Y. Mc- Mann, "William Hart, A. DeXormandie, Henry Elliott and II. V. Whalen.

Minooka Lodge No. D2S, A. F. & A. M.. was organized dining 1SG7, and received its charter the following year with these charter members: C. Dahlem, A. K. Knapp, G. C. Griswold, John T. Van Dolfson, G. S. Correll, Samuel Adams, W. II. Smith, .E. \Y. Weese, Jacob Gebelman, John Colleps. Phaley Gedleman, J. E. MeClure, C. V. Hamilton and W. A. Jordon.

Verona Lodge, A. F. & A. M., at Verona, was organized in ISflS. The Masonic Hall of that village is the most substantial building of the place. The present Worshipful Master is Walter Kilmer.

Prevalent Idea Of A Hospital

. It is an all too prevalent and injurious belief that the modern hospital is an indulgence and luxury of the wealthy ; that institutions of this nature are callous and soulless, and that the only interest taken in the patients is a purely professional or case-hardened scientific one. Far from these erroneous and prejudicial theories being the fact, the modern hospital, aside from being the highest possible development of science for the mitigation and cure of the hosts of bodily ills to which mankind is heir, is a great philanthropic, utilitarian and public-spirited organization, into the development of which the best thought, the greatest achievements and the worthiest and most unselfish efforts of experts from every corner of the world have entered.

The problems of health are really the problems of life and must pertain to all questions of human interest ; and of recent years this interest has spread far beyond the ranks of the merely professional men, so that today the right-thinking leaders in any of the activities of life recognize that the attainment of the greatest degree of efficiency has its foundation upon the attainment of the greatest degree of bodily soundness, haleness and vigor. It is for this reason that the modern hospital plays such an important part in the scheme of things. Upon it rests the responsibility for the physical and mental welfare of the community, and in as great a degree as this welfare is maintained, in just such 'degree will the community prosper and flourish in the activities to which the lives of its people are devoted.

Hacked by men of substantial business worth and standing, in charge of the best medical and surgical talent to be procured, and equipped with the most modern appliances and conveniences which science has discovered and mechanical ingenuity has devised, the Morris Hospital, at Morris. Illinois, is representative of all that is highest and best in an institution whose Object is the alleviation of humanity's swarming bodily ailments. Its growth and development has been rapid and sure and its beneficent influence upon the city and surrounding country cannot be over estimated.

Founding Of The Mokr1S Hospital

The Morris Hospital was founded in September, 190G, on the third floor of the Collins Building, above the fanners & Merchants National Hank, as a private hospital by Mis. Elizabeth Macketanz, at the request of Dr. F. A. Palmer. When she found thai the people of Morris were responding to the call of humanity by making donations to the hospital, she asked Doctor Palmer to appoint a Board of Directors to take charge of them, and the following gentlemen were selected: I >. A. Mathews. T. II. Hall, L. S. Huge, E. G. Cryder and James Hansen, practical business men whose substantiality guaranteed the financial stability of the enterprise. About three months later, the failure of Mrs. Macketanz's health, forced her to abandon her plan, and she turned all her equipment over to the trustees to be used as a public hospital.

As the scope of the hospital's usefulness grew and the people began to realize the signal benefits of its service, the first quarters were found to be inadequate to the demands placed upon them, .and in 190S, after approximately fifteen thousand bad been raised by popular subscription, the trustees gave their personal notes for the remainder of the amount needed, and since then Mr. Mathews, president of the institution and one of the principal donators has made some very substantial presents. There is still a debt upon the hospital which will be cleared off in due time. Work on the present handsome and well-equipped structure, on High - Street, between Lisbon and Liberty streets, was Commenced, and was occupied in the fall of 1010. This is the only one-story hospital in the United States, and has twenty-five beds, with private rooms and operating rooms, and every appliance and comfort of which an institution of this kind can boast. The Morris Hospital is under the capable superintendency of Amy Holtorf, whose wide experience and broad sympathies find an excellent field for expression. Associated with Mr. Mathews in the direction of the institution are T. II. Hall. L. S. Hoge, E. G. Cryder and James Hansen, practical business men' whose substantiality guarantees the financial stability of the enterprise. The original medical and surgical staff was composed of Mrs. A. E. Palmer and G. F. Nelson, both now deceased, and Drs. F. A. Palmer, H. M. Ferguson. W. F. Walsh and F. C. Bowker, men of high professional standing and wide, practical experience. The last four named constitute the present staff, the vacancies left by death not having been filled. The Morris Hospital maintains a training school, composed of six nurses, the course being two years.

Constitution And By-Laws

"Article I. Name. Section 1. The name of this institution shall be the Morris Hospital. Section -_'. The institution shall be owned and supported by the general public of Morris and vicinity. Section :;. The object of this institution shall be the care of the sick, according to the principles of Christian charity, and the training of Christian nurses.

"Property. Section 4. The property of this institution shall be held in trust by a board of trustees in accordance with the articles of incorporation and said board shall manage the institution. This board of trustees shall consist of five members, one of which shall be elected annually at the annual meeting of the society to be held on the first Monday in October, by ballot of the members of the society, and by a majority of those so present in person voting. Every person paving twenty-five dollars or more in advance shall be a life member and be entitled to vote. Any society paying twenty-five dollars or 'more shall be entitled to one perpetual vote by its official representative, The ministers' of all the churches of Morris. Illinois, and all physicians of Morris, Illinois, shall be entitled to membership and a vote without fee. Each trustee shall be elected for a term of five years. A majority of said trustees shall be residents of Morris. Illinois.

tecs shall hold its meeting following the annual require, shall have the custody of such deeds, meeting of the society, at which time they shall papers and documents relating to the property elect from their number a president, vice presi- of the society, ajid of all moneys belongingdent, secretary and treasurer, each to serve one thereto. At each stated meeting he shall subyear or until their successors are elected. init an account, or abstract thereof, showing Three members of the board shall constitute a the financial state of the treasury, and shall quorum for any purpose. pay all orders properly drawn upon him. He

"Duties of Board of Trustees. Section G. The shall prepare and lay before the members of hoard of trustees shall at all times he fully the society at their annual meeting a statement authorized to execute all powers of the society of receipts and expenditures of the preceding over the estate and property of the society. To year, of the funds of the society, it shall be committed the authority to make by- -'Article in. Section 1. The medical staff laws, rules and regulations, and to alter and shall consist of not more than six (0) physicians amend the same, to fill vacancies, choose the resident of -Morris. Illinois, of moral and proofficers of the society, appoint agents and at- fessional repute, as were originally the six phytemlants, and generally transact the entire busi- sicians upon whose initiative the hospital was ness of the society. started. Section 2. The staff shall at an annual so on application of three members of the hoard trustees shall then meet and act upon the candiof trustees. dates thus recommended. Section 4. The mem-

"Of Secretary. Section :!. The secretary shall voting. On complaint of a majority of the medkeep the minutes of the meetings of the hoard ical staff the trustees may remove any member of of trustees and of the society. He shall pre- the .same, or on their own motion, if. in their serve all papers and records which do not belong judgment, (he good of the hospital demands it. to the office of the treasurer. He shall notify The medical staff shall have charge of the sanithe members 'of stated meetings of the hoard of tary and medical regulations of the hospital, subtrustees by notice directed to them through the ject to the approval of the board of trustees. Seepostoffice at least two days before the meeting. tion 5. No doctor shall have a right to take and shall give a similar notice of the meeting possession of the record sheets or history of of the society, by a notice addressed to the any patient, which must remain the property of members at their last known place of residence, , the hospitah least two days preceding such meeting, which of the hospital shall have the privilege of appublication shall be deemed a proper notice. pearing before the staff at any of their annual

He shall have charge of all correspondence of or special meetings to make reports or sugthe hoard and make such communications in gestions for the welfare of the hospital, hut

"Article V. Hospital Regulations. Section 1. Patients suffering from contagious or infectious diseases, insanity or delirium tremens shall not be admitted to tlie hospital. Patients shall not use profane or indecent language in the hospital nor procure for themselves or for others any intoxicating liquors. All fees to the Morris Hospital are payable in advance. No patient shall leave the hospital grounds without the permission of the physician in charge or the superintendent. Articles of food or drink must not be carried into the rooms or wards without express permission of the superintendent. Visitors must observe perfect order and propriety and confine their visits to those for whom specific permission has been obtained. The superintendent of this institution shall be the official representative of the board of trustees, shall direct the business management of the hospital, under the guidance of the board, and the medical management of the hospital under the direction of the staff. She shall keep or have kept books of the hospital, showing accurately all receipts and expenditures, and present them to the board upon demand. These regulations are subject to change at the discretion of (lie board of trustees."

Furthek Usefulness

In its field the Morris Hospital is accomplishing a great and good work. The extent of its usefulness has Increased steadily and consecutively, and no institution in the state bears a higher reputation for professional achievements. Born of the needs of its locality, promoted by individuals for the good of" humanity and the betterment of conditions, it is proving not only a force for the advancement of public health, but of the moral welfare of Morris and the adjacent locality, and. as conducted under its present, management, promises to have a Ion;:. bright and prosperous future.

Woman Ix The Twentieth Century

One of the most distinctive features of the twentieth century is the prominence given to the opinions and work of woman. Through sheer ability and constant persistence she has forced her way to the front, and it has been due to her direct efforts that many of the most important reforms have not only been inaugurated, but carried to successful completion. This is an age of development and achievement. Progress is too rapid to admit of the old, laborious and hidden means through which woman formerly worked to attain the ends she knew were best. It has been necessary for her to come out into the open, and the results prove beyond any cavil that she has been wise in so doing. As she has entered more and more largely into the work of the world, so has she taken up its reform, and her field is constantly widening.

Power In Union

As a natural result of her desire to keep in close touch with the needs of humanity, the accomplishments of the past and the hopes for the future, she has consulted with others of her sex, and they have discovered that if banded together, they could accomplish much more (ban if working independently. From small beginnings have grown the mighty organizations known the world over as (he Woman's Clubs. There is scarcely a hamlet throughout this land that does not boast some affiliation with a central branch, and through one or other of these clubs women are revolutionizing the world.

While they take a hearty and effective interest in all current topics, these women of culture and high intellectual development study conditions in .all climes and of all a^'es and keep on improving themselves and incidentally everyone with whom they come into contact. Need less to say that in a section as progressive as the opera, and during 1914-15 it is proposed to Grundy County the women have taken a live pay special attention to political science ami interest in affairs of the day. Morris has two devote some attention to the drama. It is needclubs of this nature, the Monday Club and the less to say that the Monday Club declared for New Century Club, while at Mazon the organ- suffrage and thai its members have given serious ization is known as the Mazon Study Club. attention to studying the vital questions pertaining to their citizenship. The club is affiliated Monday club with the District, State and General Federation

Church Reading Circle. The first president of the men have long recognized the power and inthe Monday Club was Mrs. Sarah Jordan, wife fluence of the work of the women, is shown by musical features. The club has been very active the new century club in securing proper school buildings', and beautifying the grounds. The members worked for In all of the above advanced work, the two and advocated the introduction and mainten- clubs labor in conjunction. The New Century ance with remarkable success, of manual train- Club has perhaps specialized a little more on ing and domestic science in the schools, am] temperance work, and for a number of years endeavored to secure medical inspection for the was simply a study club, mainly composed of schools, but in this found that popular seuti- the ladies of the Methodist Church. With the inent had not be, .a sufficiently educated to gain realization of the necessity for united and general approval of such a movement, much as strenuous effort on the part of the women, the the ladies felt it was needed. The Monday Club New Century Club branched out and is now has provided, during the years of its existence. enthusiastic relative to civic matters, manual many intellectual treats for the people of Morris. training and domestic science. The first presibringing to this city noted lecturers and mu- dent was Miss Mary Ilolderman, and another sicians. Morris is proud of the fact that the early worker and earnest member was the late late lamented Jessie Bartlett Davis, and her Mrs. Sarah Harrison. There are forty memsister, Josephine Bartlett. were born and reared hers, including those who are on the honorary here, and that some of their relatives are still list in the New Century Club, while the Monday to be found in the city. It is possible that the Club has thirty members, with provision for celebrity of these two ladies and their position associate members who can participate in the in the musical world stimulated other Morris- good work by the payment of double dues. As ites, for this city has produced many whose yet none have availed themselves of this talents have given them more than local fame. opportunity. Through all of the work of the Monday Club.

organized and adopted by-laws. During the first County was the discovery of ricb coal beds, the year the club studied "The Men Who Made the mining of which lias given employment to thou- Nation.'' With the second year the same officers sands, and developed towns ('if considerable size. were elected, with the exception of the president, News of this important feature of industrial who was Mrs. Uallie Jewett. The course of life in Grundy County readied foreign shores, study was '"Geographical Influence in American and some of the must prosperous residents at History/' The course of study for the third present, of one or other of the towns in the year was "American Literature;" for the fourth. counts', came to Grundy for the purpose of ob- "The Chautauqua Course:" for the fifth year, taining employment in the newly opened mines. "Races and Immigrants in America," and dur- There is an outcrop od the Waupecan in Seeing 1914, "Elements of the Theory and Practice tion 20, Township ."-'! north, Range 7 east, of Cookery." In 101.", this club joined the known as Wauponsee, for a mile upstream. An- Pederation of Woman's Clubs. The present other outcrop occurs on Mazon Creek in Braceoflicials are : Mrs. Genevieve Murray, president, ville Township, still further up the creek coal succeeding Mrs. Mable Shields, who resigned; has been <\wj;, but the beds are now abandoned. Mrs. Marie I sham, vice president; Mrs. William On the north side of the Illinois River, near Strong, treasurer, and Mrs. Mable Shields. Morris, the coal outcrop is heavy. There is secretary. At present there is a membership of some coal on Aux Sable Creek and along the fifty. Yearly programs are printed. The Kankakee River, and also in Saratoga Townhostesses with assistants serve refreshments ship.

joyed. In the second year's work, all women underlaid with the coal measures which occupy were invited to participate. a position immediately under the drift or surface clays, and attain a thickness of about two hundred and fifty feet in the southwest part of the county. There are only two workable seams in the county, namely: No. 2 of the Illinois the , cotton shaft - bruce company' - mines the Aux Sable on the north, south to and extendonce operated by tiie Milwaukee and st. ing over, the county line into Livingston County.

Chapter Xxii

or perhaps still earlier, where No. _ coal lies Brack ville. - The first shaft sunk at Bracevery near the surface, si. near, in fact, that ville was known as the Cotton Shaft, but it was quite a little was obtained by stripping the only operated a short time. About 1SG4, a surface off the coal. Xo. 2 coal is the best steam Mr. Augustine of Braceville Township opened and household coal in the state and possesses a shaft, hut as his means were limited, his from eleven thousand five hundred to twelve operations were not long lived, and he sold to thousand P.. T. U. pei pound. the Bruce Company, and the shaft was then

Gardner. - As early as ]st;-j the people of known as Old Xo. 1. The Milwaukee & St. Paul Gardner awakened to the fact that there was Railroad bought this old Bruce or No. 1 mine untold wealth in the coal deposits of their land, and extensive coal lands, and produced a good and on December 1, 1SG3, James Congson and grade of coal. This old mine is now closed. William II. Odell leased from II. A. Gardner, J. Barney fliggins opened a shaft at Braceville, C. Spencer, .T. R. Reese, T. C. Meyer and C. II. hut did little work, and it is now closed. Fred Could, Blocks 1, 2, :;. 4. 5, G, 7, S. 9, 10, 11. 12 Schultz stmk and operated for a short time and 25, and also Lots 1. 2. '.), I, 5, G, 7. s and '.», Shaft Xo. 2 of Braceville. This mine made a in Block 2G. for mining purposes. These part- record for producing the greatest amount of coal ners, according to the terms of the lease, were of any shaft in the county, its output being to have what coal they could mine during the over two million tons, or over five thousand tons first seven years free, alter which a royalty of to the acre. The Milwaukee & St. Paul road (i cents per ton was to be paid. The sum of gained possession of this mine, and owned four $2,000 was raised by the people of Gardner to others. None of these are now in operation, induce work on the beds. During the early part Coal City. - The activities at Coai City were of January, 1SG4, work was begun on sinking once very important, and at one time nine mines a shaft, but after a depth of sixly feet was were in operation. The Wilmington Star Minreached, it was abandoned as the sides caved in, ing Company, formerly the Wilmington Coal and another shaft was begun. Mr. Congdon be- Company, and the Big Four Wilmington Coal came discouraged and sold to his partner prior Company are the only ones now doing any work. to reaching coal in the fall of 1SG4. On July The Wilmington Star Mining Company at one 1. of the following year, Mr. Odell sold to time owned and operated seven shafts, the last William A. Steel and Thomas Kerr, and in a named now being the only one tbat is not closed, few months the former disposed of half of his When these shafts were all being worked, eminterest to D. G. Wells. The three partners sold ployment was given to from six hundred to to Aaron K. .Stiles in January. 18G7, and he in seven hundred men. This company's Shaft Xo. turn sold to the Gardner Coal Company. April -I had the record of producing more coal per 17, 1S72. Not long thereafter the Chicago, Wil- day than any other in the Illinois coal field, or mington and Vermilion Coal Company obtained of any other three-foot vein mine that I know possession of the mine and operated it until anything about. Its daily Output for a long 1S74, when they leased it to a co-operative com- time was 2,151 tons of lump coal, slack and pany. This concern only operated it for n short screenings, time, when the mine was closed. Diamond. - At one time t lie Wilmington Coal engines with water for a number of years. It South Wilmington. - The Chicago, Wiliningis believed that a number of the wells at Gard- ton and Vermilion Coal Company began work on their Shaft No. 1 about 1899. Two more the state. The prairie rolls gently and originally shafts vyere sunk, but t'.ioir No. '.', is the only was fringed with tine timber along the Aux one now operated. Sable Creek and the Illinois River, but, unfortu-

The reason for the closing of so many of the nately, the greater portion of these mighty mines lies in the fact that it is impossible for forest trees fell before the energy of the early the companies to compete with mine owners settlers, who then appreciated but little the elsewhere. The seam is not of sufficient thick- value of their timber, and did not understand ness to' justify the installation of mining ma- conservation of natural resources. On the east chinery, and the production of the coal by hand there is a natural watershed, as the ground is too expensive an operation to permit of its rises to a considerable height, and the drainage being marketed at the figures quoted by coal is consequently in an easterly and westerly operators elsewhere. The coal still remains, but direction from this line. This eminence conwitli the exception of the few shafts mentioned tinues to the river, and from its hank a magabove, all that remains to remind the traveler nifk'cnt view is obtained of the .surrounding in Grundy County of one of this section's most country for many miles.

important industries, are the unsightly piles of The soil is mixed with sand, with a clay subshale, and the depressions in the surrounding stratum, while the swamp land had a black soil, fields which mark the position of the funnels. which now that it is drained cannot be excelled These mounds will doubtless soon disappear, for for fertility. As the land is well adapted for experiments have proven that this shale when grazing purposes, many of the agriculturalists mixed with other substances makes excellent devote their attention to stock raising, and some tire tile, and thus a new industry may spring up. of the finest specimens of high grade animals