Bay County, Michigan - The whole text, 1883 (part 8 of 20)

Losses And Insurance

$1,200; total insurance, $18,900. L. Q. Eobinson & Co., lumber on Eddy, Avery & Co's dock, $13,000. Avery & Murphy, lumber on Eddy, Avery & Co's dock, $15,000. V/illiam Daghsh, two buildings opposite Eddy, Avery k Co's office, Water Street, $2,500; insurance on one, $800. I. Catlin, boarding house, corner Tenth and Water Streets, occupied by Mrs. Walker, $1,000; insurance, $800. I. Collins, house occupied by M. Garland, corner Tenth and Saginaw Streets, damages $100; Garland's furniture, $250. P. Perrott, two houses on Saginaw, between Tenth and Eleventh Streets, one occupied by A. Grabowsky, $800; insurance, $600; the other by himself, damaged, $350; covered by insurance. Perrott's furniture, $1,000; insured. The Eouse mill, $10,000; lumber, $9,000; docks and trams, $2,000; salt, 6,000 barrels, $4,500; salt sheds, $1,000; barn, $1,000; office and contents, $1,000; total, $28,000; insurance, $4,000, on lumber, docks and trams. Old Eagle Brewery, Tenth and Water Streets, $300; barn and ice house, $100; and a house on Saginaw Street, $500; all belonging to same parties; total, $900. E. Stanton's residence on Water Street, betw^een

Watson Block

Ninth and Tenth Streets, $3,500; insurance, $1,000; barn, $200; insurance, $50. The residence Avas occupied by E. J. Wright, w^hose loss on turniture w^as covered by insurance. Mr. Stanton had furniture in the residence, of w4iich he lost $700; insured for $500. Mr. Stanton had three houses on Saginaw^ Street, between Ninth and Tenth Streets, loss $1,100; insurance, $400. Stanton's total loss, $4,800; total insurance, $1,900. F. A. Bancroft's residence, corner Ninth and Water Streets, and barn on Saginaw and Ninth Streets, $3,000; insurance, $2,500; furniture, $1,000; insurance, $900; total loss, $4,000; total insurance, $3,400, by Braddock & Shannon. C. C. Fitzhugh, barn, damage, $50; insured; fence, $100. C. Bruner, house and two barns. Ninth and Washington Streets, $1,000; insured, $700, Crable; furniture, $300; insured. Universahst Church, on Washington Street, between Eighth and Ninth Streets, $3,500; insiredfor $2,000 L. Bloeden, two houses and one barn, Washington and Eighth Streets, $1,500; insured for $400. C. C. Wheeler, house, corner Eighth and Saginaw Streets, $600. A. Carter, two houses, Saginaw Street, between Eighth and Ninth Streets, $3,000. Paul Greul, hotel, Saginaw Street, between Eighth and Ninth Streets, $2,000; insured, $1,000; furniture, $300; insured. Steinbaur's old brewery, corner

Ninth and Saginaw Streets, $2,000. Biirbridge's shop, corner Ninth and Saginaw Streets, $1,500; tools, $500; insured, $700, Crable. Wildman's boiler shop, Ninth and Water Streets, $1,200. Mrs. F. E. S. Balen, boarding house, Water Street, between Eighth and Ninth Streets, $500; insurance, $400, Pratt & Denison. Wells & Son, blacksmith shop, $500; furniture stored in the block, $700. W. H. Pusey, shop and contents, $400; on Water Street, between Eighth and Ninth Streets. William Couler, store and dwelling. Water Street, near Eighth Street. I. Catlin, damage to dwelling, corner Eighth and Saginaw Streets, $100; insured; house on Saginaw Street, near residence, $500; insurance, $800; barn, $100; insurance, $50. C. W. & H. Eandall, shop on Water Street, between Tenth and Eleventh Streets, $100. Judge Miller's house and barn, $5,000; insured for $3,500. A. Grabowsky, furniture, $1,200; insured for $1,000. Chapman, Laforge & Co., lumber on Bradley's dock, $3,200; insured for $1,000. Mrs. Ehzabeth Campbell, damage to house, $100; insured. Mrs. J. Redmond, damage to house, $100; insured.

The Total

"This will make a total loss of $178,950, and other losses not reported will probably swell this amount to $200,000, of which over $90,000 is for lumber alone. The amount of insurance to cover this will reach about $55,000."

Fire Department

At a meeting of the village council, held December 19, 1859, the question of a fire department was reached, and a committee on fire department appointed, consisting of Israel Catlin, H. M. Bradley, and H. A. Chamberlin. At a subsequent meeting of the council, January 4, 1860, this committee were instructed to rent a sufficient amount of leather hose to use until Spring, and to procure a triangle with which to alarm the inhabitants whenever the fiery darts of the fire fiend should issue forth. This was certainly a modest beginning. Then a small hand engine, by the terrifying name of "Tiger," afterwards changed to the more sonorous title of "Peninsular," was purchased, and John McEwan elected captain. In April, 1861, the growing interests of the place seemed to require increased efficiency in its fire department, and W. L. Fay was commissioned to procure an engine, and he purchased one in Chicago, known as "Red Rover." H. M. Bradley was appointed chief engineer of the fire department, and organized it in an efficient manner. There was but little use for the fire department until the 12th of July, 1863, when a fire broke out on the south side of Center Street, between Water and Saginaw Streets, sweeping' both sides of Water Street for two blocks, involving in its destructive course the "Red Rover" engine and its engine house, leaving the village not only in ashes and in mourning, but as well in danger of greater conflagrations. An attempt was now made by Councilman Louis Bloeden to establish fire limits, but without success. On August 10th the bonds of the village, to the extent of $6,000, were ordered by the council for the procuring of more apparatus, and a "sufficient amount" was ordered to be expended in a steam fire engine (which, however, was not done for several years), with not to exceed $500, to repair or rebuild the "Red Rover" engine; and, at the same meeting the president and recorder were instructed to procure a site for an engine house. This committee purchased a lot on Saginaw Street, at the price of $475. An endeavor was made to organize a hook and ladder company, but failed, as had all similar efforts to this date. In October of this year, 1863, the council purchased two hand engines from the city of Rochester, N. Y., with hose carts and other apparatus. These engines were designated as "Red Rover" No. 1, and "Protection" No. 2. These engines cost

At a special election held September 12, 1865, it Avas ordered that a steam fire engine be purchased, and in accordance with that decision, a Silsby steamer was ordered, which was accepted by resolution adopted by the council, November 18, 1865. The first chief engineer was E. Y. Williams. The first engineer of the steamer "Neptune" was B. F. Ray, and he continued in that position until the reorganization in 1873, when he was made chief of the volunteer department, in which capacity he served until February, 1881, when he resigned. In 1873 the department was re -organized, and made a volunteer department, and subsequently the number of men was reduced, and it was made a part pay department. When the waterworks began operation the Holley system of fire protection was instituted. When Portsmouth was annexed to the city, their steamer, the "Alert," was added to the department, and the two steamers are now held in reserve. The present department is upon the volunteer plan, part pay. There are now four hose companies, with carts drawn by horses, and one hook and ladder company. The following are the

Officers And Companies

Chief engineer, Robert J. Campbell; first assistant, John Fowler; second assistant, Henry Woods. First Ward, Vigilant Hose Company and steam fire engine "Neptune," southwest corner of Fitzgerald and Belinda Streets; Second Ward, Neptune Hose Company, east side Saginaw, between Center and Fifth Streets; Fourth Ward, Rescue Hose Company, east side Water, between Tenth and Eleventh Streets; Seventh Ward, Night Hawk Hose Company, northeast corner of Thirty-fourth and Taylor Streets; steam fire engine "Alert," on Middle Ground, opposite Thirty-second Street; Hook and Ladder Company, No. 1, Fourth Ward engine house, north Water, between Tenth and Eleventh Streets.

Fire Limits

Whether necessary or^not, fires are inevitable and very effective as a rejuvenating agency. It usually happens in the experience of new towns that a few fires are necessary to stimulate public action in the direction of future protection against the ravages of this dangerous element. This was true with reference to Bay City, and yet few places have been more enterprising in providing for the public comfort and welfare than this metropolis. The fire of July, 1863, was a serious one for a village of 2,000 inhabitants,involving, as it did, a loss of $50,000. Immediately after that fire an attempt was made to establish fire limits, but without success. A second unsuccessful attempt was made in the council early in 1865, but the big fire in October of that year convinced the people that delays were dangerous, and soon after that the council established fire limits, preventing the erection of wooden buildings in the business parts of the town west of Saginaw Street.

There was considerable opposition to the restrictions imposed by fire limits, although their necessity had been so expensively demonstrated. This feeling, however, soon passed away, and the natural consequence of fine brick structures has followed. The present fire limits are Second Street, north; Adams Street, east; Eighth Street, south; and the Saginaw River, west.

Secret And Benevolent Societies Masonic

Bay City Lodge No. 129, dates from October, 1860, when a dispensation was granted by the grand master of the state of Michigan to William R. McCormick as worshipful master, and W. A.

Bryce and N. B. Bradley as wardens, with iK)wer to organize a lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in Bay City. As early as 1858 a meeting of Masons w^as held in the second story of the Jennison store, wiiich was attended by N. B. Bradley, H. M. Bradley, J. J. McCormick, W. K. McCormick, C. B. Cottrell, John F. Cottrell, J. H. Little, and Clark Moulthrop. Possibly other meetings were held, but the organization was not effected imtil 1860, as stated. Upon receiving its charter in 1861, Wilham A. Bryce was elected master, and his successors during the few years following were N. B. Bradley, Rev. C. P. Nash, and R. J. Carney. The organization has been prosperous, and has included in its membership some of the leading men of the place. The lodge room is now in the third story of the Eddy Block. There are about 198 members. The present officers are as follows: - C. B. Cottrell, W. M.; A. L. Stewart, S. W.; C. C. Stewart, J. W. ; John Rose, treasurer; G. F. Hood, secretary; F. 0. Gilbert, S. D.; J. C. Lamb, J. D.; Rev. Wolf Landau, chaplain; George W. Palmer, D. Minnie, stewards; C. S. Wells, tyler; L. A. Brown, marshal.

PoKTSMouTH LoDGE, No. 190, F. & A. M.,was organized by W. R. McCormick, Charles Stevens, and W. H. Southworth, in 1865. The first meeting was held in the second story of the residence of Ehsha G. Allen, at Portsmouth. The charter members were W. R. McCormick, Charles Stevens, W. H. Southworth, A. C. Braddock, Hamilton Burnett, C. D. Fisher, and Charles E. Merrell. A charter was granted in November, 1867, w^hen George Lewis was elected master. In 1868 the lodge bought a lot and erected a building, using the second story for their lodge room, and renting the lower story for stores. The present officers of the lodge are: - J. A. Beardsley, W. M.; S. E. Williams, S. W.; H. B. Mix, J. W.; Robert McLaughlin, secretary; J. L. Gould, treasurer; H. C. Meyers. S. D.; E. A. Smith, J. D.

Masonic Mutual Benefit Association was organized in May, 1878. W. H. Barse is president; George Lewis, treasurer; and A. L. Stewart, secretary.

Odd Fellowship

Bay Lodge, No. 104, was organized at Portsmouth, in January,. 1867, and was called Portsmouth Lodge. A. W. Watrous was its first N. G. The lodge did not flourish as well as was hoped for, and it was thought if it was moved to Bay City, the change would prove beneficial. The removal was effected and Good Templars hall was used for about a year. Li 1869, the name wa^ changed to Bay Lodge. Six lodges have been instituted from the members of this lodge. The lodge has a pleasant hall in the Cranage Block and a membership of about 100. The present officers are as follows : ~N. G., J. R. Van Blarcom; V. G., J. H. Gould; secretary, F. G.

Eden Lodge, No. 260, was instituted Tuesday evening, July 6, 1875, by Special Deputy Grand Master George H. Shearer. The officers were E. C. Blush, N. G.; E. C. Ward, V. G. ; J. D. McKinnon, R. S.; J. 0. Smith, P. S. ; C. Stover, treasurer. The present officers are as follows: - Frank Felton, N. G.; 0. B. Smith, V. G. ; J. C. Dumoe, Sec. ; W. E. Callender, Per. Sec. ; James McFarlan. Treas; Representatives to Grand Lodge - James McFarlan, W. E. Callender.

Organized temperance effort in Bay City began with the organization of a Good Templars Lodge, November 13, 1860. The lodge was organized with twenty charter members, but this number was increased to upwards of 300. Since that time the temperance work in the city has progressed very much as in other places. The temperance societies now in active existence are Bay City Good Templar Lodge, No. 109; Portsmouth Good Templar Lodge, No. 709; Sons of Temperance, recently organized at South Bay City; Royal Templars of Temperance ; and Bay City Reform Club. The latter club was organized by Dr. Reynolds in 1877, with a membership of upwards of 2,000. " All of these organizations are in a healthy state of prosperity, and doing effective work.

Excelsior Lodge, No. e52, A. 0. U.W., organized August 10, 1878. Officers :--W. A. Pettipiece, P. M. W.; Henry Hiefield, M. W.; A. Grabowsky, G. F.; Henry Galbraith, overseer; Robert Trask, recorder; C. W. Randall, financier; W. Landau, receiver; Henry Waters, I. W. ; Wilham Chase, 0. W. ; W. A. Pettipiece, A. Grabowsky, A. Hyman, trustees; representative to the Grand Lodge, A. Hyman.

Fidelity Council, No. 2, Order of Chosen Friends, meets at Odd Fellow's Hall. Officers: - Daniel Campbell, past chief coun. cilor; W. H. Crawford, chief councilor; Charles Williams, vice councilor; 0. W. Booth, secretary; L. Anthony, treasurer; Mrs. D. Campbell, prelate ; Abraham Bates, marshal ; Mrs. A. Bates, w^arden ; R. Palmer, guard; H. Gould, sentry; L A. Lount, W. H. Gray, George Beard, trustees; 0. W. Booth, D. Campbell, representatives to Grand Council.

Aebeiter XJnterstuetzun-Verein - German - organized 1868; incorporated February 27, 1871. Officers: - Martin Schindehette, president; Peter Prior, vice-president; Joseph Schiilte, recording secretary; Frederick Kranse, secretary; Simon Zirwes, treasurer; William E. Peters, janitor.

Geemania Gymnasium Association meet at Zirwes Hall. Officers : - Jiihus Bertch, president; Charles Supe, Jr., vice-president; Emil Wedthoff, treasurer; Charles Mueller, secretary; Otto Supe, sergeant at arms; George Winkler, first turner; Fred. Gudschinsky, second turner.

Bay City Lodge, No. 178, I. 0. B. B., organized 1872. Officers : - J. Sempliner and A. Grabowsky, for president; W. Wolsky, vice-president; J. B. Goldman and H. Bressler, recording secretary; L. Freedman, finance secretary ; W. Sempliner and A. Grabowsky, treasurer; H. Pincus, warden; G. Grabowsky, guard.

Polish National Society, organized October 18, 1880. J. Briske, Pres. ; Ant. Prytinski, Vice-Pres.; protocol sec, Joseph Mankowski ; financial secretary, Alexander Menezarski; cashier, John Muszynski; patron of the sick, Joseph Jablonski; librarian, W. V. Prybeski; standard bearers, George Kaunts, Frank Wisniewski; council of administration, Andrew Mendrysky, Ig. Szeszyeki, Joseph Wetter, Albert Ryezek; Teopil Piatt, porter.

St. Andrew's Society, organized August 22, 1876. A. Cuthbert, president; Matthew Lamont, vice-president; A. McDonald, treasurer; John Drake, secretary.

St. George's Society of Bay City, organized August 22, 1876. Officers: - H. Holmes, president; John Saunders, Sr., first vicepresident; Frederick Nichols, second vice-president; A. Bate, recording secretary; C. WilHams, financial secretary; George Mansfield, treasurer; John Saunders, Jr., and William Keene, stewards; S. C. Wilson and J. H. Tennant, auditors; 0. W. Booth, chaplain.

Arion Society was organized in 1878, and is one of the most prosperous societies in the city. It has an elegant hall, built in 1880. The present officers are: - J. G. Trost, president; J. Heeke, vice-president; Lorenz Weber, secretary; Theodore During, treasurer. The society organized with twelve charter members, and the present membership is upwards of 1,500.

militaky. Company D, Third Regiment of State Troops, under the name of "Peninsulars" is a well drilled, handsomely uniformed body of sixty-five men, made up from the trades and professions of the city. The first meeting at which an organization was effected was held at the Eraser House, October 13, 1873, and Frank H. Blackman nominated for captain. At that meeting apphcation was made at headquarters, which was accepted, and about the beginning of 1874 the company was mustered into service. The armory is on the east side of Washington Street, between Center and Fifth Streets; captain, C. R. Ha wley; first lieutenant, H. P. Warfield; second lieutenant, R. S. Pratt.

A Pioneer Business

The large dry goods house of Romer, Lovell & Co., on Center Street, has a history extending back over nearly the entire mercantile operations of Lower Saginaw and Bay City. The business was first estabhshed by the firm of Park & Munger, in the year 1850, in a small building on Water Street. In 1854 A. S. Munger entered the firm, and the style of the firm was changed to C. Munger & Co. In 1862 Edwin Park retired from the firm, and the business continued by Munger & Co. In 1869 Messrs. J. F. Romer and E. H. Bassett entered the firm, but no change was made in the firm name. In February, 1874, the Mungers retired, and A. J. Cooke and D. A. Langworthy, who were engaged in the same business, consolidated with J. F. Romer, and the style of firm was changed to Cooke & Co. This firm continued until February, 1882, when Mr. Langworthy retired, and the name of the firm changed to Cooke & Romer. In February, 1883, Mr. Cooke retired, and was succeeded by Messrs. Clifford F. and Frederick L. Lovell, who came herefrom Boston at that time. The business was also in a measure divided, Messrs. Cooke and Romer carrying on the carpet department separate from the other business, the dry goods business being continued under the firm name of Romer, Lovell & Co. The business occupies two floors and basement of a double store in the Central Block, and is one of the finest stores in the state. The carpet department occupies the second story. This store has the finest hydraulic elevator used in the city.

Aaron J. Cooke, of the dry goods firm of Cooke & Co., is a native of New York State, and has been a resident of Bay City since 1866. ' He was in the union service from 1862 until the close of the war, and held the rank of captain when discharged. During his residence in Bay City he has been one of the leading dry goods merchants, and prominently connected with public interests, especially the public library, of which he has been one of the most active supporters.

Jesse F. Romer, of the firm of Romer, Lovell & Co., is a prominent citizen, and one of the leading business men of Bay City. He was born in the town of Kendall, Orleans Co., N. Y., in the year 1837. His father was a farmer, and one of the pioneers of that county. The subject of this sketch remained at home assisting his father upon the farm, and attending district school during his boyhood. He also attended the academy at Albion, and in 1865 went into a store at HoUey, N. Y., as clerk, where he remained between three and four years. In the FaU of 1868 he came to Bay City on a visit to relatives in this vicinity, and while here an opportunity to enter the firm of Munger & Co. was offered, and he decided to accept it. Accordingly, in the Winter of 1869 he became a partner in the firm, as already stated. The history of the firm has already been given. In 1858 he was married at Gaines, N. Y., to Miss Lucy A. Reed, of that place. In 1876 he built their present residence on the corner of Eighth and Sherman Streets. Mr. Romer is a successful business man, and one who contributes liberally to the general advancement of the interests of Bay City. He is a leading member and one of the elders of the Presbyterian Churcli. He is a gentleman of large influence, and a liberal contributor to all enterprises calculated to be a public benefit.

The Public Libkaey

is a very flattering testimony to the intelligence and enterprise of its citizens. This institution, which is so great a hlessing to the community, owes its existence very largely to the efforts of Mr. Byron E. Warren, now president of the Bay National Bank. On the 4th of Decemher, 1869, articles of association were filed with the county clerk, and on the 10th of January, 1870, the organization was perfected. The first installment of hooks, consisting of 77G volumes, was received in May following. Henry A. Braddock was the first librarian, and the library found a temporary habitation in the court house. The number of volumes at the end of the first year was 2,952.

Under the provision of the state constitution, the Board of Education had accumulated a hbrary fund of |2,899, which had never been touched, and in March, 1874, an arrangement Avas perfected for a union of the Bay City Library Association with the Board of Education.

The present trustees are: - James Shearer, A. McDonell, A. J. Cooke, H. A. Braddock, C. L. Collins, and Prof. J. W. Morley. The mayor of the city is chairman of the board by virtue of his office ; the librarian is secretary, and the city treasurer is treasurer of the association. Miss Jennie Gilbert is librarian, and Mrs. F. H. Whittemore assistant librarian.

The hbrarian's report for March, 1882, shows the number of volumes in the library to have been 8,519; number added the previous year, 848; number of books issued during the year, 26,429. Eeceipts for the year |2, 436.24, and expenses, $2,139.52.

There is also a public library in the Seventh Ward, which was founded in 1868 by the Ladies' Library Association, of Portsmouth. Mrs. William Daglish was the first president. This library has always been well sustained, and is now kept in the front room of the postoffice in the Seventh Ward.

Stkeet Kailway

In December, 1864, the Common Council of the village of Bay City, granted permission to Thomas J. Butman, James C. Lockwood and William E. Bates, of Milan, 0., to construct a street railway. The following February a company w^as incorporated, under the name of the Bay City and Portsmouth Street Eailway Company. The first board of directors was composed of Myron Butman, James Eraser, William McEwan, George Campbell a^d N. B. Bradley. Mr. Butman was president and N. B. Bradley secretary. Mr. William McEwan superintended the construction of the road, which was built from Third Street, in Bay City, to the present line of Thirty-fifth Street, and cars commenced running in November, 1865. Some changes occurred in the early history of the company, but the operation of the road has continued without interruption from the first. About the year 1874, the franchise passed into the hands of a company of capitalists who are largely interested in the different enterprises centering in Bay City, w^ho extended the line of track to the north about two miles, to the mills nearest the mouth of the river, and south to a connection with the track of the F. & P. M. B. W., at McGraw's mill, crossing the tracks of the Michigan Central E. E., near the railroad bridge, which is near to the center of business in the city. The new company, with an increased capital, laid a light T rail of sufficient strength to enable them to do the work of a transit road, and during t\ie Winter of 1874-75, commenced to deliver empty and loaded cars, at and from any mill between the mouth of the river and McGraw's mill (a distance of six miles), to any of the railroads centering in the city, thus affording mill owners on the river all the facilities for Winter and inland trade enjoyed by mills located on the lines of railroads. The road is operated by dummy engines, which transfer railroad cars by night, the track being operated by horses through the day.

This road, following the line of Water Street along the river, supplying a river frontage of six miles wdth railroad connections, has contributed materially to the development of the city. In 1882 the company built one of the largest barns in the state just west of the Astor House Corner in South Bay City. The name of the company is now the Bay City Street and Transit Eailway Company. Its present officers are as follows: - President, James Clements; treasurer, H. Clements; secretarv, E. A. Cooley.

Bueial Geounds

Earth has no corners beyond the reach of death ; no crevice in w4iich man may hide himself, and escape the sentence pronounced upon all that is mortal. The last resting place of the dead is always regarded as a sacred spot by the living, whether among savage or civilized people. The pioneers died in lonely places, and their graves were unadorned by the delicate touches of art.

The first burial in Lower Saginaw was some time prior to 1840. A man named Bennett, from Pine Eiver, died, and was buried near what is now the corner of Eleventh and Washington Streets. This was a sand ridge, and was selected on account of its elevation. The next death here w^as that of Mrs. Derr, who was buried in the same place, and these w^ere the only deaths in the settlement for several years. This burial place w^as used until about 1859. At that time Judge James Birney purchased and set apart five acres at the east end of Twelfth Street, in order to have a suitable j)lace for the grave of his younger brother, George Birney, to whom he was much attached. This ground was enclosed, and has been used since that time. The ground is tastefully laid out, and is still the property of Judge Birney, excepting the lots that have been sold for graves. It is rapidly filling up, and shows how^ the cities of the living, people the cities of the dead. This spot is known as Pine Eidge Cemetery.

To the east of and adjoining Pine Eidge is the Hebrew Cemetery, and a short distance further east is Bt. James' Catholic Cemetery, comprising five acres of ground, originally donated to the CathoHc Church by Mr. W. D. Fitzhugh.

On the opposite side of the Tuscola plank -road from Pine Eidge is a handsome cemetery, laid out by Mr. E. Erckermeyer, an enterprising German citizen. This is called Green Eidge Cemetery.

Gas And Electeic Light

As the world progresses there is a marked disposition to hght up the darkness of night as much as possible. Blazing hearths and pine knots made the evenings of early times very cheerful, until tallow candles flickered with a dazzling brightness that almost blinded the eyes. That light grew dim, however, when lamps came upon the sceneT They were brilliant but liable to explode and scatter disaster broadcast. Then followed gas and electricity.

Bay City concluded it would not look well to wear the livery of a city without appropriate facilities for illumination, and early in February, 1865, Thomas Edsall, James L. Ketchum, James Eraser, Dexter A. Ballan and Henry M. Fitzhugh applied to the Common Council of the village of Bay City for permission to establish gas works in the city. The prayer of the petitioners was granted, but the project was abandoned, and nothing was done until February, 1868, when the Bay City Gas Company was organized with a capital of f 40,000, and their works established on Water Street, near Eleventh Street. They commenced furnishing gas the following Autumn. The officers were, William McEwan, president; James Clements, secretary; E. Wells, treasurer. Directors, William McEwan, James Shearer, James Clements, E. Wells, E. C. Seaman. In 1882 the company increased its capital stock to $60,000. The present stockholders of the company are as follows: - James Clements, Philip Bach, Charles Fantle, Moses Seabolt, David Einsey, Mrs. H. H. Tripp, E. Wells' estate, Wilham Wagner, Mrs. A. Clements and Mrs. H. C. Sackett, Ann Arbor; William McEwan, eTames Shearer, Luther Westover and Florence Fitzhugh, Bay City.

The electric light was introduced here in 1882, Bay City being the first in the state to adopt electricity for general illuminating purposes. The city is brilliantly illuminated with seventy electric lamps, of 2,000 candle power, placed upon telegraph poles, and in addition to these has a central tower over 200 feet in height, surmounted by an electric lamp of 24,000 candle power, which can be seen at a distance of foity miles on the lake. The electric light is in general use in stores, hotels and saw mills. The tower above mentioned is constructed of gas pipe, and presents an airy and pleasant appearance. It is located on Center Street near the courthouse.

Telegkaph And Telephones

Telegraph communication was first established with Bay City by the Western Union in 1863. In 1874, the Atlantic & Pacific Company established an office here. The telegraph business is very large, and at times has been in excess of any other locality in the state, excepting Detroit.

Telephones were introduced here in April, 1879, by the Michigan Telephone & Telegraph Construction Company. Mr. Charles F. Orton, now in the lumber business, was superintendent, and was instrumental in speedily developing a very large business in Bay City. There were at the beginning of 1883, 250 instruments in use in the city. W. D. Greene is superintendent.

WATEE WOEKS. From 1865 to 1870 the population of Bay City more than doubled, and at the latter date was rapidly increasing. The general growth of the city was so marked that the necessity of better protection against fire had for some time been felt, and urged by some of the citizens. The subject of water works was agitated for som.e two or three years, but nothing definite was done until 1871. Early in that year the subject was investigated under direction of the City Council. One committee, consisting of Judge Birney and George Campbell, investigated the workings of the Holly system, and another committee composed, of L. L. Culver,

S. G. M. Gates and George H. Shearer, had estimates prepared and submitted to the Council. A special election was ordered for July 14, 1871, to decide whether the city should have water works or not, but owing to some defect in the order, the election did not take place until August 14th, following, at which time 1118,000 was voted as the beginning of a fund for the purpose of supplying the city with water from the Saginaw Bay. September 6th, a board of water commissioners was created, which was composed of James Shearer, Michael Daily, WiUiam Westover, John McDowell and H. M. Bradley, with James Shearer president. Numerous places were visited, and the subject thoroughly analyzed ; in fact, the care and wisdom exercised in reaching a decision has been of great advantage to the city. The Holly system of direct pumping through the mains to the consumer, was adopted. Mr. F. L. Dunbar was appointed chief engineer and superintendent of construction, January 2, 1872, and about that time a contract was closed with the Holly Manufacturing Company, and the work of construction began at once. The works were located in the northern part of the city about four miles distant from the bay. The inlet from the bay was made about the same distance from the mouth of the river, so that clear and pure water is at all times obtained. The works were finished and the machinery commenced operations in December, 1872.

The following balance-sheet shows ledger balances from the commencement of the works, showing net amount expended on each branch of the works since their inception :

Water Meters

The number of water meters set during the year was twentytwo, making whole number set at the present time twenty-eight. The superintendent in his report for 1882, says:

"The experience of the past year has demonstrated beyond a doubt that the use of meters is the only practical plan for preventing the waste of water and for equalizing the rates 'to be paid by consumers according to the quantity of water used. Notwithstanding an increase of 12 per cent in the number of service connections, the quantity of water pumped has been reduced 18 per cent. It is not to be supposed that the entire amount saved has been from the few services metered; the moral effect upon the smaller consumers of metering the larger ones, has been salutary, but this will not be permanent unless the meter system is extended as fast as possible."

Water Pumped And Cost Of Pumping

The total amount of water pumped during the year 1882, as indicated by the revolutions of the pumps, was 775,642,466 gallons, which is 168,739,577 gallons less than pumped in the preceding year. 769,705,577 gallons were pumped under the ordinary domestic pressure of forty pounds per square inch, which is equivalent to a lift of 107 feet from the surface of the water in the wells; 5,937,020 gallons were pumped under a fire pressure averaging seventy-eight pounds per square inch, at the pressure gauge, which is equivalent to a lift of 195 feet from the surface of the water in the wells. The cost of pumping this quantity of water has been $7,618.97, which is $9.82 per million gallons pumj)ed; $9.12 for every million gallons raised 100 feet; $4.56 for fuel ]3er million gallons, and $4.12 for fuel per million gallons raised 100 feet. The large reduction in the quantity of water pumped has enabled the works to respond promptly to every demand for fire pressure, and furnish thoroughly efficient fire protection to the city without excessive strain on the pumping machinery.

The number of connections inserted in the main pipes during the year was 114, of which eight are connected with iron mains and 106 with Wyckoff mains. The whole number of service attachments, besides branch castings, connected with main pipes, is 1,034.

Main pipes were laid during 1882, as follows: - In alley between Jefferson and Madison Streets from Tenth to Eleventh ; on Eleventh Street from alley between Jefferson and Madison to Madison ; on Madison Street from Eleventh to Thirteenth ; on Ffirragut Street from Center to Tenth.

Assessment Rates For 1883

The regular assessment roll for the year 1883 amounts to $14,236.80; estimating the amount to be received from metered water at $4,500 and from new sources $1,000, makes a total of nearly $20,000. The roll for 1883 embraces the following users of water:

Water is supplied to the following without charge: - City hall, police station, city offices, four hose houses, eleven public drinking fountains, and two public parks. Twenty -two services are shut off by reason of the buildings on the premises having been removed or burned and not rebuilt. Fifty-eight services are shut olf for non-payment of rates.

Damage

E. L. Dunbar, superintendent and secretary of the Bay City Water Works, was born in Ellsworth, Conn., in the year 1846. In 1865 he located in Bay City. Being a practical engineer, and a young man of marked ability, he was selected as a proper person to superintend the construction of the water works, and was appointed to that position in January, 1872. So well adapted is he to that position that he was continued as superintendent, and also made secretary of the board, and is still retained in the same capacity. He is a practical man, and his services have been of great advantage to the city in his admirable management of the affairs of the department of which he is in charge.

Present Board Of Water Wjrks

President of the board, William Westover ; superintendent and secretary, E. L. Dunbar; first engineer, A. B. Verity; second engineer, Frederick H. Hoi] v.

Members Of Board Since Organization

First Waid. - Michael Daily, appointed September 6, 1871, resigned May 13, 1872; Andrew Walton, appointed May 27, 1872; Andrew Walton, re-appointed December 9, 1872; Andrew Walton, re-appointed February 4, 1878; Andrew Walton, re-appointed January 22, 1883, term expires September 6, 1887.

Second Ward. - James Shearer, appointed September 6, 1871, term expired September 6, 1873; Thomas Cranage, Jr., appointed November 3, 1873; Thomas Cranage, Jr., re-appointed September 2, 1878, term expires September 6, 1883.

Third Ward. - William Westover, appointed September 6, 1871;Wilham Westover, re -appointed March 29, 1875; William Westover, re-appointed October 20, 1879, term expires September 6, 1884.

Fourth Ward.^ - John McDowell, appointed September 6, 1871, died May 11, 1872; Wilham Smalley, appointed May 27, 1872; William Smalley, re-appointed February 4, 1878; William Smalley, re-appointed December 13, 1880, term expires September 6, 1885.

Fifth Ward, - Henry M. Bradley, appointed September 6, 1871; Henry M. Bradley, re-appointed February 4, 1878, resigned May 3, 1880; Charles E. Young, appointed June 1, 1880; Charles E. Young, re-appointed September 5, 1881, term expires September 6, 1886.

1874, term expired August 4, 1879; Wilham Daghsh, appointed October 20, 1879, resigned October 24, 1881; Duncan McGregor, appointed October 31, 1881, term expires August 4, 1884.

Bay City Chamber Of Commerce

This association was organized in February, 1882, by virtue of act No. 166 of the Legislature of the State of Michigan, entitled "An Act for the Incorporation of Boards of Trade and Chambers of Commerce," approved March 19, 1863.

"The object of this association shall be to advance the commercial character of and promote just and equitable principles in trade, to coiTCct any abuses which may exist, and generally to improve the interests of trade and commerce in Bay County.

"The officers for the government of this association shall be a president, two vice-presidents, a board of eleven directors, a committee of arbitration, and a committee of appeals.

"The president, vice-presidents, committee cf arbitration, committee of appeals and board of directors shall be elected by a ballot at each annual meeting, and shall hold their offices for one year and until others are elected in their places, except those first elected under this constitution, whose term of office shall expire on the second Tuesday of January, A. D. 1883.

It started with a membership of about 170 of the leading business and professional men of the city, who were willing to unite their energies and means for the promotion of the interests of Bay City and County. The first year of its existence witnessed many beneficial results from the association. Many improvements were originated and others aided by it. At the annual meeting in January, 1883, the president, H. P. Merrill, made an annual report, in the course of which he mentioned the aims of the association, and what it had done during the year, as follows :

"A want had long been felt for an association or society that would bring our prominent citizens together to consider matters pertaining to the progress and welfare of our city. It was not a debating society that was needed, but a place where meetings could be had to form or mould public opinion in matters of public concern.

That the organization has during the past year accompHshed much is apparent to those who have watched its proceedings. What it has done cannot in every instance perhaps be seen, as the work which it initiated in many cases has been carried out by others, while in other cases it has but moulded public sentiment, and actually assisted in carrying out, or at least encouraged, others, in measures contemplated for the public good. In this connection I think I am justified in saying that nothing has been done to injuriously affect the rights of any individual or company further than such as must inevitably follow in the march of necessary public improvements in a young and ambitious city.

"it is with pride that I mention a few of the more important measures which this organization performed, recommended or assisted in accomplishing during the past year.

"First - Valuable statistics pertaining to the agricultural, mechanical, manufacturing industries of the cities and county have been collected, published and distributed. This has resulted in directing the attention to the superior facilities afforded in this county for business purposes - and many have availed themselves thereof. Much good may still be expected from the work already done. Strangers visiting our city on business or pleasure have been furnished with prompt and valuable assistance which otherwise they could only have obtained, if at all, with much trouble and expense.

Hotel

"It is well known that about the time of our organization the principal hotel in our city was not open to the travehng public, nor was the prospect for an early opening flattering, yet with the active assistance of this body a change in the ownership of the Fraser House property was accomphshed, the house remodeled, repaired, refurnished and opened to the public, and to-day it stands equal to the best in the state, and our people take just pride in referring to it.

Free Bridge

"The necessity for a free bridge between the two cities has long been felt, and when the question of raising money by tax was submitted to the people of the county with which to purchase or build a bridge, active work was considered necessary to meet the opposition of interested parties and townships supposed to be opposed thereto. Information was furnished by this Chamber, committees appointed to visit some of the more important polling places, and with the assistance thus rendered the result was favorable. It then became necessary in order to prevent a heavy loss to the stockholders of the Third Street bridge to assist in the negotiations looking to a purchase of the property, which was rendered , and resulted in a purchase being made much, we believe, to the advantage and benefit of all parties interested.

Stone Roads

"The Chamber also lent its aid in promoting measures to raise by tax money to build stone roads leading from the cities into the country. This work has been fairly inaugurated, about four miles of the roads have been constructed and the prospects now are that in a short time this county will have roads superior to any in the state.

Bhdland Railroad

" Some work has been accomplished in the direction of having this completed and the indications are that the present season will see the accomplishment thereof.

City Parks

"The city parks were in a rude, unfinished and unsightly condition last Spring. This Chamber originated and recommended to the Common Council a plan which at a moderate expense would materially improve the same. The plan was adopted, the small parks on Center Street were improved and made attractive, the larger parks also much improved, and a plan suggested by whiclrthe paved streets could be beautified outside the paved line thereof. These improvements are apparent to the most casual observer."

The association has suitable rooms fitted up on Fifth Street, near Washington Street, where the public can obtain any information pertaining to Bay County.

The officers and directors for 1883 are as follows: - H. P. Merrill, president; Albert MiUer, first vice-president; T. Cranage, Jr., second vice-president; L. S. Coman, A. McDonell, George Campbell, C. L. Collins, John Eose, Luther Beck with, D. C. Smalley, John L. Dolsen, John N. McDonald, John H. Wilkins, R. B. Taylor, directors; W. H. Tousey, R. Scheurmann, D. W. Grow, F. A. Bancroft, E. B. Denison, committee on arbitration; George Lord, E. Y. Williams, William Keith, J. L. Dolsen, J. H.' Wilkins, committee on appeals; Charles C. Gustin, secretary; L. S. Coman, treasurer.

Miscellaneous Eeview

The introduction of salt manufacture in 1860-'61, infused new life into all local projects and enterprises, and brought into existence an important adjunct to the lumbering industry. New capital was drawn here and invested, the value of property was increased, and the residents of the village were encouraged to increase their efforts to improve their advantages and condition. A foundry was started followed by a boiler shop. Mr. A. N. Rouech leased Judge Campbell's pioneer tavern, and greatly enlarged it to meet the increasing demand for hotel accommodations. Mr. Rouech gave it the name of "Globe Hotel."

The greatest activity, of course, was in the lumber and salt industries. These increased population and consequently enlarged the field for general business enterprises.

The first brick building erected in the city was built by Thomas Watkins, on the corner of Center and Washington Streets. It was begun in the Fall of 1862 and finished the following Spring. It was afterwards purchased by James Shearer and remodeled for his private residence. It was torn down about 1879 to make room for the elegant four-story block built by Mr. Shearer in 1879-'80. Mr. Watkins was an early comer to Bay City, and was a lumber inspector. He died July 22, 1868, at the age of fifty-two years, leaving a wife and one child. He was a native of New York State.

In the Fall of 1863 Mr. James Shearer had a map of Bay City prepared with great care and accuracy, showing every building, with location and description, in the city. Buildings were scattered over an area extending south to Twelfth Street, north to a line just beyond the Pitts & Cranage Mill, and east to Madison, the western boundary being the river. There were four brick buildings in the city, the Watkins house, already mentioned; a two-story buildmg on Water Street, now occupied by Meeker & Adams, built by George Campbell for James Fraser; a two-story building still standing just south of the Fraser House, built by a man named Cooper; and the county building, one story, which stood just in front of where the jail now stands. This last named building was occupied with the county offices. All these buildings were built in 1863. The principal mercantile business of the place was done on Water Street, between Third and Center Streets.

the present site of the Shearer Block, on the northwest corner of Center and Water Streets, was a two-story frame store building. Passing east along the north side of Center Street, the next building was a one-story frame where the Averell Block now stands ; next a story and a half building on the northeast corner of Center and Saginaw Streets; then came C. E. Jennison's residence, and beyond that on the present site of the Central Block, was the Watkins dwelling. Between Adams Street and the public square was a story and a half dwelling standing back from Center Street, and the only building in that block. This is all there was on that side of Center Street. On the south side of Center Street was a story and a half store building standing about midway between Water and Saginaw Streets; on the corner where the Munger Block now stands was a two-story bailding, and there were two one-story buildings where the Westover Block stands; between Washington and Adams Street were four small buildings and a two- story dwelling stood next to the public square. The two-story residence of W. L. Fay, still standing just east of the public square, completed the list west of Madison Street. Beyond Madison Street were the; residence of Willinm McEwan, the dwelling built in the wilderness by General Partridge, in 1856, and two or three others. The McEwan grist mill stood on the present site of the Griswold Block.

Within the area described by the map referred to there were at that time 535 buildings, including barns and ice houses. There were seven churches, four school buildings, twelve saloons and six hotels.

During this year the American Express Company opened an office here. Previous to this the nearest ofiice was at East Saginaw, and it cost 50 cents to get a parcel to or from' that place. The Bay Bank was opened this year, in the Union Block on. Water Street.

1 865-' 66 witnessed many improvements. Messrs. Sage & McGraw had a prosperous town started on the west side of the river. Bay City was incorporated as a city. The Third Street Bridge was built, a telegraph office had been established; a Board of Trade organized; Portsmouth and Bay City connected by street railway; a county agricultural society organized, and other important improvements noted at length upon other pages.

In the Spring of 1866, the first attempt at numbering buildings was made. No system became so general and permanent as that adopted in the Fall of 1882, at the /introduction of free delivery system by the postoffice department.

By the Winter of 1866, the feeling of metropolitan importance became so intensified that the public refused to longer wade through snow upon sidewalks, and the city fathers, wisely and solemnly ordained that snow upon any sidewalks to a greater depth than one inch must not be allowed to remain more than twelve hours after the storm had ceased. Since that time some have shoveled, and, alas ! some haven't.

The period of 186 5-' 66 was most notable as marking the beginning of a new era in buildings. The fire of 1865 cleared the way for new buildings, and men who were able to invest in building came to the »front at this time. The business of the place demanded better hotel facilities, and James Fraser built the Fraser House Block. Mr. George Campbell was the contractor. For the city at that time it was an elegant building, costing about f 75,000. Mr. Fraser erected it to meet the hotel wants of the place, and to contribute something to the material interests and welfare of the city that would be of enduring value and advantage. Mr. James Shearer had recently become interested in Bay City, and had become convinced that a larger growth and development was in store for the place. On the corner ol Center and Water Streets, opposite the

Fraser House, he erected at the same time the first three- story brick business block in the city. The foundation of the city, with respect to its buildings, was now^ laid. Enterprise is contagious, and in matters of public improvement, if the right ones lead the w^ay, others are sure to follow. Hunger k Oo. followed with improvements. Union and Griswold Blocks went up. Birney Block on Water Street and Averell Block on Center Street came soon after, and a portion of the Campbell House Block, by Mr. George Campbell.

A little later, in 18l37-'08, other improvements were inaugurated. The first sewer was built by James Shearer, to his block, in 186G. In 1867, a mile in length on Center Street, and the following year a portion of Water and Center Streets were laid with Nicolson pavements. The work of paving w^as continued until about three miles had been laid, and at the present time Bay City is well supplied with pavements and sewerage. Mr. James Shearer put down the first flagstone sidewalk laid in the city.

In 18G7, the work of dredging the outer bar of the river was commenced, and finished the following year. Eailroad communication opened, and a large number of new business blocks and private dwellings were built. New streets were opened, and real estate experienced unprecedented activity. During the next two or three years the aspect of the place w^as entirely changed, banking facilities were enlarged, the Fraser estate came into' market, or, at least, a portion of it. The High School building was erected, also the Court House; gas was introduced in 1868, and water works in 1872.

In 1868-'69, the Westover Block on Center Street was built by Mr. William Westover, the upper stories of which were devoted to an opera house. The postoffice is located in this block at the present time.

1872 was a busy year in building. Among the business blocks erected were the Maxwell dock and warehouse, those of E. B. Denison, H. H. Norington, Smith & Hart, on Water Street; and on Center Street w^ere the Munger Block, First National Bank building and block, and the Cranage Block. There were also a large number of residences erected in 1872-'78.

From 1870 to 1874, the population of the city was increased from 7,064 to 13,676. It was during that time, however, that Portsmouth w^as annexed to Bay City.

The increase in population and material wealth has continued rapidly, yet in all respects the growth has been healthful. During the past two years a general spirit of enterprise and improvement has prevailed, and as a consequence a great transformation has been wrought in the general appearance of the city. The streets are wide and well paved, private grounds present an attractive appearance, and the new business blocks are substantial and elegant structures. Among the more recent additions to the wealth and beauty of the city in this direction, are the two four-story brick blocks on Center Street, built by Mr. James Shearer, and described elsewhere in this work, the ornate brick block on Washington Street, built by Mr. William McEwan, and the large block of sfcores on Waier Street, recently finished by Mr. E. B. Denison.

During 1881, over thirty miles of new sidewalks, and about two niiles of main sewers were built in the city. Upwards of $900,000 were invested in new buildings and improvements. During this year the Concordia Block was built, an elegant three-story brick structure on Center Street.

At' the annual meeting of the Chamber of Commerce, held in February, 1883, the president, H. P. Merrill, reviewed the condition of the city and improvements for 1882, to, which w^as added the report of the secretary, Charles E. Gustin. In the course of his address, Mr. Merrill said:

"At no time in the history of this city has there been such extensive improvements in the way of paving streets, building sew^ers, sidewalks and street lighting as there has been the past year. This chamber has encouraged and assisted in moulding public opinion in favor of all such improvements, and how much of what has been done may fairly be credited to the efforts of this society, I leave to others to determine. We have to-day a city of at least 25,000 people - active, intelligent, induairious and prosperous. During the past year about five miles of streets have been paved and about three miles more ordered paved, at least twenty -five miles of sidewalk have been laid, also over three miles of main and lateral sewers have been constructed in a permanent and substantial manner, costing in the aggregate over f 100,000. Our streets are now lighted wdtli the electric light, our parks improved and beautified. The past season has been a prosperous one, and the coming season gives promise of still better. If the same spirit of public improvement continues, much that will add to the growth and beauty of our city maybe done the coming Summer."

"The year 1882 JLiet closed has been one of the most successful in the history of our city, alike encouraging to our manufacturers, merchants, mechanics and laborers. Though at the commencement of the season there was some delay in getting logs, our mill men have manufactured more than last season, prices having been fair the season through, and as a rale the manufacturers are satisfied with the result of the past year.

"The constantly increasing sales of our merchants, exceeding, from careful estimates made in the different branches, the sales of 1881 at least 20 per cent, has been very gratifying, and the outlook for 1883 is considered promising.

"Our mechanics and laborers have all been employed at satisfactory wages, no strikes have occurred, no serious disturbance between employers and employes, and the numerous houses that have been built by the working classes during the past season, are a standing testimonial to the general improvement that is taking place in our city. Bay City is known far and wide as an enterprising and go-ahead city, the census of 1880 bringing it into prominence throughout the United States as much as anything of late years. Since 1880 its growth has been if anything more rapid than ever, and I do not think we would be far wrong in claiming nearly 30,000 as the population of the third city of Michigan.

Real Estate

the transfers liave^beeii very niuiieroiis, altbongh we have had no boom, prices have been good, and one very gratifying feature is that the sales have not been made to speculators, but for occupancy by the purchasers. In this connection I will say that there have been more buildings erected during 1882 than in any other year of our growth, the number aggregating 566, and the valuation about $972,092, about $100,000 more than during 1881. At the present time the demand for desirable locations is good, and everything points to an increased business in 1888.

Lumbek And Salt

are l^nown as the great staples of our city, and while it makes interesting reading for those in the business, I will not detail you by an itemized report, but give the total product of our city and West Bay City during 1882, and comparing the same with 1881. The season has been a prosperous one, and an increase in manufacture is

City Impeovements

"It is a difficult matter to keep track of the numerous improvements going on in our midst, and no matter how careful one may be he is almost sure to overlook something of interest. Aside from the buildings mentioned elsewhere we have expended during the year on pavements and sewers as follows :

Arrivals And Clearances Of Vessels

"During the season 1,542 vessels of all kinds with a tonnage of 542^219, arrived at the port of Bay City, and 1,649 with a tonnage of 615,571, cleared from same port. This does not by any means show the entire business done by the custom house here, as there is no record of reports and clearances of vessels within the district for any foreign ports.

Of the improvements concerning West Bay City, I have not as yet been able to get any authentic estimate, but it is beyond question that she will make a magnificent showing both as regards improvements during 1882 and contemplated improvements for 1888.

"One of the most important things for Bay City and West Bay City created during 1882 was the Bay City Chamber of Commerce. The good work it has done has been told you by our president, and

"Scarcely a season has passed but what our manufacturers of lumber and shingles have been robbed enormously by river pirates. This has been known and different means employed to protect their interests but it has not been so successful as desired. Through one of The members of the Chamber of Commerce, E. J. Briscoe, a company has been formed for the purpose of their mutual protection. It may be said that perhaps this company would have been formed regardless of the Chamber of Commerce. This might have been said of the hotel, of the parks, and of the county roads. But no, the drawing together of th6 lumbermen by the Chamber caused them on common ground to talk over their interests, and a private matter with Mr. Briscoe became a stock company under the name of the Saginaw Kiver Boom Company, and no one here but will be glad to learn that it has saved to our manufacturers of luml er and shingles, over $40,000 in logs picked up at the mouth of the river and en the bay during the past season."

January

25 - Tenth annual report of superintendent of water works, E. L. Dunbar, showing 944,882,048 gallons pumped in 1881, it being the largest consumption of water since the introduction of the Holly system into Bay City.

August

15 - Johnny Grant, aged thirteen years, shot and killed by an unknown person in broad daylight, near the corner of Eraser and Twenty-first Streets.

Railroad Facilities

Bay City has had railway communication with the outside world since 1867, at which time the Flint & Pere Marquette Eoad was extended to this city. The present railroad facilities are as follows :

Bay City & East Saginaw Division of the F. & P. M., thirteen miles. Main line of F. & P. M., extending from Monroe to Ludington. By both of these roads we have eastern connection at Detroit.

Mackinaw Division of the M. C. R. R., extending from Bay City northward to the Straits of Mackinaw and connecting with the Marquette division of the Northern Pacific, thus making Bay City on the most direct route to the great West.

Deceased

Dr. William Daglish, deceased, was born March 8, 1828. He was bred and educated in tJie city of London, Eng. He early acquired habits of industry and a fondness for study, and all of his life was an indefatigable worker and a close student.

Having relatives in the United States, and being imbued with Republican ideas, he emigrated here at the age of twenty-one years. Having had some study and experience in medicine he entered Rush Medical College in Chicago, and graduated. He first practiced medicine in Rockford, 111., then in Chicago, being in theory and practice a Homeopathist.

Visiting in the Saginaw Valley, in 1855, at the time the cholera became an epidemic, he found his services needed, and he continued in the practice of medicine until 1861. To practice medicine in that early day of this valley required courage and self-sacrifice, as the settlers were scattered, roads bad, and pay worse. No doubt

He entered into the law department of the State University, and graduated in the year 1863. He was elected and chosen to several positions of profit, but always dechned. He always held some office of trust - was active in establishing the pubhc schools of the city, and served in some capacity until obliged from illhealth to resign as member of the School Board.

He was a member of the Council many years, also of the Board of "Water Works. He was interested in ail matters of pubhc good, giving hberally of time and means. He, with Judge Miller, gave the sites where now stand the Fremont Avenue Methodist Episcopalian Church, the Baptist Church, and Presbyterian Chapel on Twenty-third Street. He was prominent in building the Methodist Episcopal Church, and for years an earnest and zealous supporter. *

He was pecuharly of a genial, happy disposition, having always a kind, cheery word. His extensive travel, close observation and mirthful disposition made him a most agreeable and entertaining companion. He died December 12, 1882, after long and severe suffering.

James Eamsdell, deceased, one of the most prominent lumbermen of the Saginaw Valley, was a self-made man. He was born in Lubec, Me., January 18, 1818. At the age of fourteen years he left his home to follow sailing on the ocean, at which he continued up to the year 1848, when he w^ent to Buffalo, looking for employment, but could not find any. A gentleman here offered him a situation to go to Canada to work in a saw mill. This was new business for a sailor, but he determined to learn. Here he worked for one year sawing lumber, when he became so proficient that his employers raised his pay, and employed him for another year, 1844. This year he married Miss Agnes Jane Procunier. After working this year, he thought he was capable of carrying on lumbering on his own account. He had an indomitable will, and whatever he attempted he was sure to accomplish. He went in partnership with the Hon. Luther Westover, now of Bay City, in the manufacture and sale of lumber. With his indomitable perseverance, he was very successful. He afterwards went mio the same business with the Hon. John Charlton, now a member of Parliament, until their pine lands were exhausted. By this time he was in comfortable circumstances. But he could not bear to be idle, so he made up his mind to go to the Saginaw Valley and go into the lumbering business on a larger scale. He came to Bay City in 1866, where he purchased large tracts of pine lands on the Eifle,. Au Gres, and Cheboygan Eivers, and commenced lumbering on an extensive scale on his own. account. He afterwards removed his family to Bay City, where he lived for some tinie. In 1874 he purchased the fine mansion built by the late James J. McCormick, where he removed, and soon afterwards died, his death occurring August 2, 1877. Mr. Eamsdell was an honest man, prominent in his business as in his social relations, possessed of rare business qualifications, and from a poor sailor boy he became one of the most extensive lumbermen of northern Michigan. He left a competency for his family, consisting of his wife and four daughters.

Appleton Stevens was a prominent business man of Bay County for upwards of twenty years. He came to Portsmouth from Deep Eiver, Conn., in 1857, and engaged in lumbering, the firm at an early day being A. Stevens & Co. He started the town of Deep Eiver, about thirty miles north of Bay City, where he had extensive lumbering interests. He was an active and successful business man. He died in 1879, leaving a widow and one son. The latter is now of the lumber firm of Green & Stevens. It is such men as Mr. Stevens that have made Bay City what it is. Mr.

William H. Southworth died May 18, 1869, at the age of thirty-three years. He was a native of Deep Eiver, Conn., and a son of Mr. Charles G. Southworth, one of the early lumbermen of Bay City. Wilham came to Bay City in 1856, his father having already settled here in business. For four or five years he remained in his father's employ. November 28, 1859, he was married to Miss Ehzabeth M. Marsac, daughter of Capt. Marsac, one of the prominent men of his day, and whose biography is given in this work. Mr. Southworth built the house in which his family now reside, on Water Street, before Harrison Street was opened, below where the Astor House now stands. This house was afterwards moved to its present location on Harrison Street. About 1868 the firm of Southworth & Watrous, of which he was a member, built a planing mill on Harrison Street, now a box factory, and operated it until his death. He was at one time clerk of the township of Portsmouth, and was one of the charter members and first officers of the Masonic Lodge of Portsmouth. He was a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Eite of Free Masonry. He was an excellent business man, and his death deprived Bay City of a useful and enterprising citizen. He left a wife and three children, two sons and a daughter. Their home is still in the house he built on Water Street, and afterwards removed to its present location on Harrison Street.

Benjamin F. Beckwith is another of the men who have had an active part in building up the business interests of this region, but who were not permitted to see the fullest results of their labors. Mr. Beckwith was born in New London, Conn., in 1827. He came to Portsmouth about. 1858, and engaged in lumbering. Was a member of the firm of A. Stevens & Co. for a time, and in the lumber business imtil about a year before his death, which occurred March 24, 1878. July 13, 1864, he married Miss Antoinette Cornelius, of Fort Plain, N. Y., who, with her three daughters, lives in the residence at South Bay City, which he built in 1862, at the edge of the swamp and forest. Mr. Beckwith was a Knight Templar, and one of the charter members of Portsmouth Lodge, F. &. A. M. He was at one time treasurer of the Village of Portsmouth. Mrs. Beckwith was one of the prime movers in the organization of the Ladies' Library Association, and one of its first officers.

Theodore M. Bligh, M. D., who died in Bay City March 16, 1866, settled here in 1855, and engaged in the drug business. In the fire of 1863 his store was burned, and his health beginning to fail, he became an insurance agent, and was so engaged until the time of his death. He was a native of Sherburne, Chenango Co., N. Y., and a graduate of the Buffalo and Geneva Colleges, and practiced medicine about two years before coming to Bay City. He was a prominent citizen, and commanded the respect and esteem of all who knew him. He was 36 years of age at the time of his death.

Mrs. Bligh was born in Hamilton, N. Y., in 1832. She was married to the late Dr. Theodore M. Bligh, and came with her husband to what was then called Lower Saginaw, now Bay City, where she has lived ever since to the time of her death.

Mrs. Merrill was born at Saginaw on the 13th day of October, 1839. At the age of two years her father removed to Flushing, Genesee County, where she received a good common school education, and at the early age of fourteen years she commenced teaching in the district schools in the vicinity of her home, and continued her occupation as a teacher in Genesee, Saginaw, and Bay Counties, until her marriage to Charles A. Merrill, Esq., which occurred at Bay City on the 15tli day of December, 1864.

The subject of this sketch at the age of seventeen years joined the Methodist Episcopal Church at Portsmouth, and ever after adorned her profession by living a consistent Christian life, and was always active in her duties in promoting the cause of Christ in the community in which she lived. Mrs. Merrill was a model wife and mother, and leaves a husband, two daughters, and a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn her departure.

William Pomeroy, deceased, was one of the early saw mill men of Lower Saginaw. He was one of the firm of Hopkins, Pomeroy & Eraser, that built the first mill at Lower Saginaw. In 1852 he sold out his interest in the mill, and followed fishing for several years. He kept the lighthouse at the mouth of the river for three years. He died in Ann Arbor in 1868.

Nathaniel WmTTEMORE, who died in January of the present year, was a citizen of Bay City for a quarter of a century. He came here in 1856 from Boston, and was in the mercantile business for about three years. He was the second sheriff of Bay County, and afterward county clerk for two or three terms. He also held several city offices, and was held in high esteem as a public officer and as a citizen. He removed to Massachusetts for his health, but received no benefit, and died as above stated.

Hiram Willmot, who died in June, 1880, was extensively interested in the manufacture of lumber, at Bay City, from 1865 until his death, although not a continuous resident of this place. He was a native of Deep Eiver, Conn., and in 1845 married Miss Harriet C. Southworth, daughter of Charles G. Southworth, afterwards a prominent lumberman of Bay County. Mr. Willmot was a member of the firm of Stevens & Co., and afterwards of Watrous, Southworth & Co. His mill interests were at Portsmouth. Mrs. Willmot and one daughter survive him.

John McDowell was a prominent business man of Bay City from 1862 till his death, which occurred May 11, 1862. He was a native of Ireland, and emigrated to America in 1816, and settled in Bay City in 1862, and conducted a foundry and machine shop. He took an active part in public affairs, and was a most excellent citizen. At his death he left a wife and five children.

Henry S. Dow was a native of New Hampshire, though a greater portion of his life was spent in the West. He served nearly four years in the Union Army, and was mustered out with the rank of captain. After the war he came to Michigan and studied law for a time and then purchased an interest in the Saginaw Advertiser, Six months after he sold out and went to Oil City, Pa. After remaining there awhile he again came West, and graduated from the law department of the Michigan University. From that time until 1871, he was in Chicago, New York, and lastly, Plainfield, N. J. In 1871 he came to Bay City and took a position on the editorial staff of the Journal^ and subsequently was managing editor of the Tribune, In 1872 he estabhshed the Lumberman s Gazette, In 1875 he published a history of Bay City, which was a very creditable work. In 1872 he was a candidate on the Eepublican ticket for clerk of Bay County, but was defeated. In September, 1874, he was elected corresponding secretary of the National

A. Miller was born in St. Clair Co., Mich., April 7, 1824, He came to Bay City in 1857, and for some years operated the old Drake mill in West Bay City. He also afterwards operated the mills at present owned by Eddy, Avery & Co., on Water Street, Bay City. Mr. Miller was a prominent man, and in the Spring of 1870 would probably have been elected mayor of Bay City, had not his death occurred to break up the aspirations of his friends. He died on March 17, 1870. His widow still lives at the old homestead on Washington Street. Mr. Miller was a kind husband and loving father, and was highly esteemed by his acquaintances.

Bay City has been favored to an unusual degree in the number of its pubhc spirited citizens, and the degrees of interest and ability with which they have entered into all the progressive movements of the city. Well balanced minds have given to its institutions the quality of permanency, while enterprise and taste have combined in multiplying pubhc buildings of more than ordinary architectural merit. It is no disparagement of the efforts of others to say that among this class of men Mr. James Shearer stands prominent.

James Shearer hrsfc became interested in Bay City in the Spring of 1863, and since 1865 has been a resident of the place, and one of the most active promoters of a healthy growth and thrift. He was born at Albany, N. Y., July 12, 1823, of Scotch parentage. At an early age he had the advantages of a common school. When about fifteen years of age he emigrated to Michigan, and located at Detroit, where he served a six years' apprenticeship in the art of building, devoting a portion of his spare time to the study of geometry, drawing and architecture, under competent instructors. He then returned to Albany, and spent the Winter and Spring of 1844-'45 at the Albany Academy, studying the higher mathematics, architecture and other branches. After leaving the academy he visited several states in pursuit of more extended information. In the Fall of 1846 he arrived at Montgomery, Ala., where the State Capitol was in process of erection. He obtained employment and was soon appointed superintendent, and as such had charge of its completion. In 1848 he returned to Detroit, and commenced business for himself as an architect and builder. He very soon took rank as one of the most successful business men of that city. In 1861, having been elected for a term of two years, one of the aldermen of the city, the pressure of the various duties of attending to the families of soldiers who were in the field, and with filling his ward quotas, with other public service, rendered it necessary that he should retire from his business. He was very active during the war in rendering assistance, and made several trips South, visiting the wounded in the field, and distributing needeVl aid to the suffering. In the Winter of 1863 he visited Bay City, but not with any intention of settling here. However, in the Spring of that year, he purchased the Kaymond saw mill, which he almost entirely rebuilt, and operated very successfully until 1874, when he sold the property to the Michigan Central Railway Company. In 1865 he removed his family to Bay ..City, and estabhshed them first in the original Birney and afterwards Eraser residence. He lived there ^nq years, and then purchased the property where his Central Block now stands. The building at that time was a brick house, the first one built in Bay City. His thorough knowledge of archi- tecture and long experience as a builder naturally led him to study the needs of Bay City, and in 186d-'66 he erected the Shearer Block, at the corner of Water and Center Streets. This was the first building of any pretensions in the city. It was considered at the time a great mistake to extend a building to a height of three stories, but he foresaw that the ventulre was safe, and furthermore, that such a thing was necessary to introduce a spirit of legitimate rivalry, in order to secure such a class of public buildings as the growing importance of the place demanded.

In 1876 he completed the elegant brick residence on Center Street, where he now resides. His building is a model of architectural elegance, and is in harmony with the wealth and refined tastes of its builder and occupants.

In 1880 he finished the Central Block, on the corner of Center and Washington Streets. This was another advanced step in public buildings, being four stories in height. The block is 100 feet square, and is the finest business block in the city. Another building similar in style and adjoining the Central Block is now nearly finished, and will be known as the Shearer Bros. Block. These two buildings represent not less than $115,000, and testify to a spirit of public enterprise, the value of which to a city cannot be over-estimated.

Mr. Shearer's excellent judgment has been exercised in many ways of public benefit, especially as president of the Board of Water Works, from its organization until the works were in operation, and of the First National Bank from 1867 to 1881. In 1871 he was appointed by Gov. Baldwin as one of the commissioners to select designs and build a State Capitol, and continued to be a member of this commission until the completion of the capitol. The great value of his services in that capacity are thoroughly appreciated. He has been often urged to accept public offices, but has never consented except in cases where his services were important to the public welfare. In 1880 he accepted the nomination for Regent of the University of Michigan, and was elected one of the Board of Regents for eight years.

Mr. Shearer is in every respect a self-made man, and his success in life, which has been of the broadest scope, is the fruit of industry, uncompromising integrity, and unswerving fidelity to honorable course of action. He is one of the trustees of the First Presbyterian Church, and takes an active interest in whatever tends to promote the welfare of education and society. In May, 1850, Mr. Shearer married Miss Margaret J. Hutchison, of Detroit. They have had four children, three sons and one daughter, all of whom are still living. The sons, G. Henry, James B., and Chauncey H. Shearer, were bom in Detroit, and partake largely of their father's business traits and habits. Under his excellent tutorage they have matured into reliable and successful business men.

Sheaeeb Bros, is the style of the firm under which they continue the business established by their father. The present firm succeeded James Shearer & Sons during the past year. Their business consists in managing their extensive real estate interests, - selling, renting, building, etc. These gentlemen are weU settled in their business and domestic relations. G. Henry Shearer married Miss Elva Culver, daughter of Descum Culver, of Bay City, and occupies a handsome residence of his own. Chauncey H. Shearer married Miss Marie L. Deshler, of Columbus, and is also established in a commodious home. James B. married recently Miss Amelia Marston, daughter of Judge Isaac Marston, of Bay City.

Thomas Cranage, Jr., of the lumber firm of Pitts & Cranage, is a son of Thomas Cranage, a wealthy capitalist of Detroit. He was born in England, but while an infant his parents came to this country, and for many years have resided in Detroit. He was married

October 20, 1863, in Detroit, to Miss Julia Pitts, daughter of the late Samuel Pitts, the well known lumber manufacturer. Mr. Cranage had been in the drug business at Detroit for eight years, but soon after their marriage they removed to Bay City, and he became a partner in the business of Samuel Pitts. The business history of the firm, one of the most prominent in the Saginaw Valley, is given elsewhere. In 1870 he built the elegant brick residence at the corner of Center and Monroe Streets, which is still the family home. This home accords with the refined tastes and ample wealth of its occupants, and is a credit to the city. In 1873 he built the Cranage Block, an imposing three- story brick block on Center Street, having a frontage of 100 feet, and a depth of eighty feet. At the time it was built many of the business men warned Mr. Cranage that it was too far east to ever be valuable for business purposes, but the correctness of its builder's judgment as to location has long since been attested. In 1874 Mr. Cranage's health was in a very precarious condition, and he visited Europe in pursuit of relief. The visit wrought the hoped-for cure, and he returned in good health. He was one of the charter members of the Michigan Salt Association* now called the Salt Association of Michigan, and has been its treasurer from the beginning. They have had three children, two of whom are now living, one a son at the age of eighteen years, just entering college. Mr. Cranage is a gentleman of large culture and refined tastes, at the same time his business philosophy is sternly practical, and his judgment clear and correct. He is public spirited and liberal in all channels that promise healthy and permanent thrift and real benefit. He is the resident member of the firm, and their vast interests here receive his personal attention and direction. The thorough discipline in force in every department of their business shows something of the characteristics of Mr. Cranage.

E. B. Denison has been a resident of Bay City since 1862. His father was Rev. Avery Denison, one of the pioneer ministers of Michigan, who died in Bay City, October 15, 1866, at the age of seventy- seven years. Mr. E. B. Denison was one of eleven children, and was born in Macomb County. In 1862 he removed to Bay City, and in 1864 was married to Miss Elizabeth Eraser, daughter of the late James Eraser. Eor several years after coming to Bay City he was engaged at teaching and in the mercantile business, and afterwards vice-president of the Eirst National Bank. In 1864 he built their present residence on Center Street. An enterprise of Mr. Denison's was the improvement of a fojty-acre tract in the suburbs of West Bay City. Six and one -half miles of tile were sunk, and the land brought to a very high state of cultivation. The growth of the city brought this tract into market for building purposes, and he platted an addition to West Bay City. He has built four business blocks in Bay City, and for several years has devoted his attention to the real estate, occasionally doing something in insurance. He has been one of the prominent members of the Eirst Baptist Society, and is a man who leads a business life of unusual activity.

Bernard Witthauer was born in Germany, June 26, 1834; came to the United States in the Eall of 1852. Landing at New York City, he made a short visit to friends there, and before the close of the year he was stationed behind the desk as book-keeper for a wholesale and retail boot and shoe business, on Market Street, in the city of Philadelphia, the place of his destination. In the Spring of 1854 he was engaged by the late Maj.-Gen. David B. Birney, then manager of the mercantile agency of B. Douglass & Co., of Philadelphia, as book-keeper for E. B. Eerris & Co., general store at Lower Saginaw, (the General being a member of the last named firm.) When that concern puUed up stakes to move their goods to Scranton, Penn., where Gen. Birney was interested in coal mining, Mr. Witthauer engaged as clerk with Nathaniel Whittemore, general store. While acting as clerk he was also officiating as express agent for Lower Saginaw. On February 1, 1859, Mr. Witthauer was united in marriage to Miss Margaret, the eldest daughter of the Hon. Sidney S. Campbell. Fi^om this happy union resulted the birth of three children, the eldest of which is their son William, head clerk with Lucien S. Coman; two daughters, Kittie and Bella, still living with their parents. Mrs. Margaret Witthauer, always a very retiring lady, delights now^ as much as ever in the management of her home and the proper training of her children.

During the last described period of Mr. Witthauer's business life, and later on, he occupied various official positions of trust. He was elected register of deeds for three consecutive terms, acting at the same time as deputy for Algernon S. Munger, county treasurer, doing almost all of the clerical duties of that office. Duriug his official term as register of deeds there Avas added to his duties that of superintending the compiling of the records of the county into a set of abstract books.

After the close of his official career, he opened a real estate and abstract office, conducting with this an extensive business as money broker and conveyancer. He took into partnership with him Henry T. Evans, under the firm name of Witthauer & Evans. This was then the only concern of the kind in town, and nearly all the heavy real estate and pine land transactions and large loans on real estate of those days were effected through this firm. At the same time he w^as the assistant land agent for the Jackson, Lansing & Saginaw Eailroad lands, under the Hon. 0. M. Barnes. Later he purchased some pine land and lumbered the same, selling the logs; he then went into partnership w^ith Charles Scheurmann, under the firm name of Witthauer & Scheuimann, in the same line of lumber business, and subsequently we find our subject as a partner of the lumbering firm of Kaiser, Witthauer & Co. This firm purchased a large tract of pine on the Kawkawhn Eiver, and after cutting 15,000,000 feet i during their first Winter's operation, the subsequent Summer, the j firm made sale of their lands, horses and lumbering utensils, etc. Mr. Witthauer then purchased with Charles Scheurmann the then so-called "Burrows Mill," of Au Sable, which they operated one season and sold out. Mr. Witthauer, with Charles Scheurmann, of Bay City, and Bernhard Stroh and Henry Weber, as partners, purchased the one hundred thousand dollar tract of land of Alexander Swift, of Cincinnati, 0., located on Lake Saint Helen, on the northern division of the Michigan Central Eailroad. There, under the management of the subject of this sketch, this firm erected a large saw mill with planing mills, dry kilns and box factory, and carried on manufacturing under the firm name of Witthauer, Scheurmann & Co. By the further erection of boarding houses, store and a lot of dwelling houses, the village of Saint Helen was called into existence. After two years operation at Saint Helen, the times continuing dull and threatening, Mr. Witthauer concluded, with Mr. Scheurmann, to sell out to the remaining partners, Stroh and Moebs. This sale was consummated in the Fall of 1875, and in the early part of the Spring following, we find Mr. Witthauer boarding an ocean steamship at New York City, for a trip to the old country, and, more especially, a visit to his aged mother and relatives in Germany, after an absence of twenty-four years from his birth-place, and the home of his boyhood. He sojourned in the old world for a period of seven months and returned home again in October, 1876. From that time on until March, 1877, he traveled extensively through the United States, making a very large collection of articles for an extensive business of export from this country, to be established at a suitable point in the United States and Hamburgh or Berlin, in Germany, having already arranged for a partnership with a wealthy business house in Leipzig, Germany, Mr. Witthauer to act as the purchasing partner in this country. Immediately after the return from this trip to his home he at once started again for Germany, where his samples and goods were being received at the time. On the day of his arrival at Leipzig, the declaration of war between Eussia and Turkey was bulletined through the streets; business was prostrated in consequence of the news, and the parties to the business combination concluded to go no further. Disposing of the samples, Mr. Witthauer returns home in June of the same year. In the Spring of 1878, we find our subject at the head of the business in wiiich he is at j)resent engaged as manager of the Bay City Dry Dock and Shipyard Company. Being musically inclined, and with much of the talent inherent in his countrymen, he was instrumental in organizing the Teutonia Society and Glee Club, and was for many years the president, and through it furnished much musical entertainment to the residents of the city. It will thus be seen that while he is persistent with business alfairs of life, he does not omit the enjoyments of the same. He is much respected, not only by his friends, but by the public at large, who appreciate his public spirit and enterprise.

Charles Supe, wholesale dealer in groceries, provisions, grain, kerosene oil, etc., is one of the representative business men of the Saginaw Valley, and one who has contributed his full share to the commercial prosperity and importance of Bay City. Mr. Supe was born in Prussia, January 12, 1836. In 1850 he emigrated with his parents to America and settled in Saginaw County. What is now Bay City was then known as Lower Saginaw, and the territory now included in Bay County was a part of Saginaw County. In 1868 Bay City had grown to be a city of about 6,000 inhabitants and in March of that year Mr. Supe settled here and opened a retail grocery story on Water Street, in the room now occupied with Stephenson's music store. In 1871 he built the large brick elevsLtor, 40x99 feet in size, which he now occupies with his business. In 1870 he gave up the retail business and about that time made a visit to the Pacific Coast. In December, 1872, he moved into the Maxwell Block, now occupied by Malfcby, Page & Co., and also was doing business in the elevator building, corner of Third and Adams Streets. From December, 1872, to December, 1876, the firm was Supe & Eademacher. The magnitude of Mr. Supe's business has fully kept pace with the growth of the city, the annual sales at the present time aggregating upwards of $350,000. To achieve this success has required a large degree of business energy and sagacity, and close personal apjalication. By the exercise of these qualities Mr. Supe has not only established a large business upon a sound and paying basis, but has made for himself an enviable reputation for integrity and financial soundness. In addition to . his private interests he has been called upon to devote considerable time to public affairs. He held the office of county treasurer from 1873 to 1875; was city treasurer in 1877; has been a member of the Board of Education, and is. at present alderman from the Second Ward of the city. In the discharge of all public duties he has exercised the same clear judgment as in his private enterprises, and served the public as faithfully as he served himself. Mr. Supe has a wife and four children. Their family residence is on Jackson Street, between Fifth and Center Streets. It is to the credit of Mr. Supe that whatever public offices he has held have come to him without his seeking, - a fact always worthy of being recorded.

John H. Wilkins, late mayor of Bay City, was born in Philadelphia, Pa., October 22, 1836. In 1853 he graduated from the Philadelphia High School, and immediately thereafter entered the employ of the late Gen. David B. Birney, who was chief manager of the mercantile agency and collection office of B. Douglass & Co., where he remained until June, 1856. Gen. Birney being the principal owner of a store at Lower Saginaw, now Bay City, sent Mr Wilkins here to act as clerk. The store not proving a success, he was instructed to close up the business in 1857, send the stock to Scranton, Pa., where Gen. Birney was interested in coal mining, and to follow in person and open a new store. It was a flattering testimony to Mr. Wilkins' business capacity and integrity that, at the age of twenty- one years. Gen. Birney was willing to entrust him with the management of a business. But he had found the stir and enthusiasm of Western life agreeable to his tastes, and declining the 'tempting offer he went to Detroit and took a position as shipping clerk in the warehouse of the late Capt. E. B. Ward, - one of the best business schools in which a young man could be placed. He remained in that position until January, 1868, and then went to Eockwood, Monroe Co., Mich., as book-keeper for his brother-inlaw, Hon. John Strong, present state senator. He remained there until February, 1878, when he returned to Bay City, and opened a real estate and abstract office, which he still continues, doing a very extensive business. In the Spring of 1879^ he was nominated by the Eepubhcans for the office of mayor, and was elected by a large majority, being the first Eepublican mayor in ten years. In 1880 and again in 1881 he was re-nominated by acclamation and elected. His administrations as mayor of the city have been popular to an unusual degree. Mr. Wilkins is a thorough gentleman, and one calculated to reflect credit upon the third city in the state. He is a man of broad views, and is possessed of a spirit of enterprise which, while mayor, he imparted to all departments of municipal administration. As a consequence, needed public improvements were prosecuted with vigor and prudence, giving to the city not only a high degree of attractiveness, but an excellent sanitary condition and a high place among the well governed cities of the West.

0. F. Hamet, lumber dealer and inspector, is a native of Detroit, and came to Bay City from St. Clair County in 1862, three years before Bay City was incorporated as a city. He has done an active business here for twenty years, all of which time he has been identified with the vast lumbering interests of the place. In addition to his business as lumber inspector he does an extensive shipping business. His office is in Union Block on Water Street.