Fitchburg City (part 5 of 8)

The company at present is composed of John W. Burtt and Carlos W. Jenna. In the past six years these competent men have given evidence of ability and trustworthiness, and have received contracts which they have fulfilled with a thoroughness and satisfaction that has assisted to the high reputation the concern has always held. They have to their credit some of the largest and most expensive plumbing and heating contracts installed in this vicinity. Sheet metal work is also performed. They have a large, well-arranged workshop situated off Cushing street, where all the modern equipment that is utilized in sheet metal work is at hand. A large force of competent workmen is employed here. At the store, 159 Main street, plumbing and heating supplies, kitchen utensils, tin and metal ware are carried in stock, and the store has a large trade in this line of goods.

Plumbing and heating are the specialties of the concern, however, and scientific and sanitary operations are conducted. The installation of a system, with this concern, means not only that the work will be thoroughly performed and its perfect working order assured, but also that plans have been followed by which the plumbing will be most effective in sanitary precautions and that the heating equipment will be placed w'here it may be economically operated.

Messrs. Burtt and Jenna have long been residents of this city and are regarded as sound industrial men, whose transactions and citizenship are most creditable to our community.

The relation of such an establishment to the health, comfort, and economical maintenance of homes and factories is intimate and difficult to overestimate. As the years pass, the science of the plumbing and heating engineer has a wider extent, and is more exact; and at the same time the manufacturers supply material of improved design and construction.

and the completeness with which it is covering the ground is as gratifying to the community as it is to those who are more directly concerned.

The business was organized first in 1907 as the Fitchburg Pin Co., and in January, 1910, was incorporated as the Diadem Manufacturing Co., its officers being B. E. Sawyer, president and treasurer: C. H. Flint, vice-president; P. W. Flint, secretary; H. A. Thorndike, superintendent.

The company's plant at 114 Lunenburg street is declared by experts to be one of the best and cleanest factories in the country. While this might seem a remote consideration, modern manufacturers realize that the best work is done under the best conditions, and that light, airy, and sanitary workrooms make for healthful, contented and consequently efficient employees.

The Diadem Man Ufacturing Co

The "Diadem" is one of the trademarks used on its package hairpins, and when these are procured one gets the best. They are a sanitary pin, do not fade, break or split, and have perfect points and finish.

The company has shown inventive and initiative qualities in placing upon the market beautiful hand-carved combs and barrettes, also original deand a steam engine furnishes power for sawing wood at the yards, so that any dimension can be supplied to order. Baled hay is another commodity carried, and jobbing is done at short notice, eleven horses being owned by this concern, and ten to twelve men employed.

Mr. Holland has been located in South Fitchburg for twenty years, and was previously engaged in wood and lumber transactions about here. The wood yard was established some ten years before dealing in coal was begun, and in the past decade there has been a continual increase in volume of business, capacity, and facilities.

Mr. Holland is known not only as a successful and leading business man of this section, but is numbered among the sound industrial men of our city, interested in all movements or efforts to effect the advancement and development of this community.

Phoenix Market

cations for certain lines of retail trade, there are other enterprises which one looks upon as having their natural headquarters in the congested part of the community, and in the coal and wood business one usually finds this the accepted rule.

There is no rule without exceptions, and in this particular case the exception is J. H. Holland, the coal and wood dealer at 446 Water street. His success would seem to Indicate that it is not so much a matter of location as

The high cost of living is a subject we hear a great deal about these days, though it is not such an urgent matter in some quarters of our city as in others. There are some tradesmen who aid in reducing the cost of living, by the help of experience and good judgment, buying at the lowest possible rate and selling accordingly. If this does not make the cost of living cheap, at least it makes it lower than if the buying is poorly done and the consumer has to pay for the ignorance or carelessness of the retailer.

One of the most experienced meat men in Fitchburg is L. J. Scanlon, proprietor of the Phoenix Market, 80 Main street, since 1898, and engaged in that line years previous to that. He came to this city in 1883 and was employed by Lowe Bros, for ten years. Later he and his brothers entered the wholesale meat business on their own account, and erected the building which was purchased by the J. P. Squire Co. Mr. Scanlon then established his present market, and in the thirteen years succeeding has built up a splendid trade, to which he gives thorough satisfaction by reasonable prices, and the quality of stock offered. Thus Mr. Scanlon does his part to keep down the cost of living.

Fresh and cured iueats in all varieties are sold, and the stock is daily renewed so that its quality and quantity satisfies all demands. Canned goods, fresh vegetables and fruits are also handled. Three people are employed and one team used for deliveries.

The store is neatly kept, well arranged and attractive, prompt response is made to all orders, and it is one of the best markets in this section. Mr. Scanlon was a councilman for two terms, is identified with the best interests of this city, and is a responsible citizen and a sound, business man.

Myrton A. Cutler

Though the profession of engraving is generally associated with the jewelry business, it is, like every other industry, more completely and thoroughly executed when entire attention is given to it. That a man should make it his sole business is an indication also that he has achieved particular reputation in this line, for he would naturally undertake kindred branches if he were not kept busy in this field.

Myrton A. Cutler, the engraver in the Fitchburg Savings Bank block, has been established for himself here for the past fifteen years. He has in that time given exclusive attention to this line of work. Though for twentythree years, he has had charge of this block. Various assistants are employed for the caretaking of the building, and their work is supervised by Mr. Cutler. Except for these affairs, Mr. Cutler gives his time to engraving, and the finest work in this trade that is done anywhere in the country is exhibited by Mr. Cutler.

Practically all of the jewelers in Fitchburg and Leominster have their engraving done here, and any sort of lettering is attended to in a thoroughly artistic and workmanlike manner.

Letterhead engraving, monograms on stationery, door piates, casket plates, badges and engraving on any sort of metal are lines of work executed here, and inscription and monogram

Stencil work is also done, and anything that comes into this field, whether of ordinary demand or most unusual, is attended to to the complete satisfaction of the customers.

Mr. Cutler, who was born in Fitchburg, learned the trade of jeweler here, and after some years in that industry, followed a natural bent and specialized on engraving.

He was formerly on the ground floor of the Savings Bank building, but in later years occupies an office one floor up. He is known to most of P'itchburg's residents, and as the supervisor of this l)ank property, and proprietor of the engraving business, has won a reputation for integrity and uprightness.

There is considerable advantage in managing a hotel that has been in existence for many years, as travelers have become familiar with the name and a mention of the city where it is located brings to mind the hotel where one is accustomed to stop.

Thus to mention Fitchburg is to bring to mind the American House, for this has been the stopping place of travellers and visitors to our city for many years, and has been the hostelry at which many noted guests have been entertained.

But under the proprietorship of William C. Hamilton, for the past four years, the hotel has won its greatest distinction, for though long establishment gives a reputation to a hotel, modern and efficient service is what brings it patronage at the present day.

When Mr. Hamilton came into possession of the house, in 1907, he had it thoroughly overhauled and newly furnished, and put in operation the best equipment for the accommodation and comfort of guests. It has in consequence become the headquarters for travelling salesmen, theatrical people, automobilists and other transients, whose travel through many states make them critical of hotel methods and service.

Yet. among these discriminating people, the American House is spoken of most highly, and their commendation is shown in repeated visits, and the recommendation they give to others "on the road."

The hotel offers accommodations for one hundred to one hundred and fifty people, there being one hundred and five rooms, and the dining room giving a seating capacity for seventy, which, however, can be extended to care for one hundred.

A large office, checking rooms, parlors, writing and sample rooms, are some of the conveniences it affords and one of the best stocked cafes in the city is conducted in connection with it.

Gas and electric lights, steam heat, running cold and hot water, open plumbing and improved sanitary facilities are installed. The force of thirtyfive people employed are expert in their

William C. Hamilton is a hotel man who is not only experienced in the management of public houses, but has been brought up m that atmosphere, and is wholly familiar with the demands the public makes, and the attentions it desires. He was in the hotel business in Worcester, where his father was one of the best known landlords for many years. He has a wide acquaintance with travelling people, provides one of the most varied and palatable menus that is offered in New England, and attends strictly to the inner and outer comfort of the many who register with him.

Mr. Hamilton is an enthusiast in hunting, automobiling and other outdoor sports, is a member of several fraternal organizations, and has a friendly and congenial disposition, with which are combined enterprising business qualities that make him a delightful and most efficient host.

B. L. Rich & Co

Representative of the piano and musicai merchandise trade in Fitchburg is the old established concern of B. L. Rich & Co., at 168 Main street, where it has been located- since 1886, extending its operations in that time and becoming known as one of the leaders in our city in this class of trade. The old and sound establishment of any business is of course a valuable factor of any firm's reputation, but it is particularly desirable in the piano business.

Few people are wholly secure in their own choice or judgmient of a musical instrument, and they naturally depend a great deal upon the dealer's judgment. In consequence they want to trade with a house that has been doing business in their own city for some length of time, and whose reliability and expert knowledge may be depended upon. As B. L. Rich & Co. is one of the oldest piano concerns in this city, it is much favored by people who intend to buy an instrument, and the makes carried further the confidence generally held in this firm and its methods.

The Chickering, than which there is no better in the worid, is one of the pianos sold. The fact that this instrument is being more and more largeiy used in concert and professionai work is proof of the regard in which it is held by accomplished musicians. Haines Bros, is another make that has received the commendation of music lovers and performers, and for a medium price the Poole has been more and more purchased by those who like a smooth, even-toned and finely constructed piano. These, with the Lindaman, Crown, and others, are dealt in by Rich & Co. Different cases and styles are shown in uprights, grands, baby grands, etc., and each is recommended for its particular qualities by these dealers. This concern also handles player pianos and has been very successful with them. Stringed instruments, sheet and folio music, racks, stools and other musical merchandise are shown in all the varieties or designs for which there is any demand.

B. L. Rich, now sole proprietor of this business, was a partner in the concern when it was first established, and came here from Putnam, Ct., when there was but one other firm of this kind in the field. The business has had a solid footing from the start. Mr. Rich, as a performer and tuner, demonstrates his goods with facility and thoroughness, and. the patronage that has been built up is proof of his ability and square dealing.

'The firm is one of the reliable and successful enterprises of its class In our city, and in his years of residence here Mr. Rich has become known as a citizen identified with the best interests of the community.

Thirteen Years in One Store, The Record of Grocer on Lunenburg Street Always having in mind that good things to eat is what is expected of a high-class grocery store, J. M. Goodrich, 157 Lunenburg street, corner of

American House

Boutelle street, has made this a principle of his business, and has attended to it so strictly and effectively as to build up a particular patronage that has been increased and sustained in thirteen years' career in this one location.

The store had been previously occupied by a number of tradesmen, and Mr. Goodrich bought out a concern which had been here for a short time. Taking possession of the premises in January, 1898, he has in the subsequent period maintained a select and up-todate stock, has asked but fair prices, and has given prompt and expert service.

It is one of the oldest grocery stores under one management in this vicinity, and the permanency of the trade has been assured by the methods employed. Staple and fancy groceries of guaranteed worth are dealt in, the choicest lines of pickled and canned goods, cooked and unprepared foods, cereals, etc., so that the housekeeper can order her daily or weekly supply, and be confident that the order will be filled as well as if she were trading with the largest store downtown.

Confectionery, fresh fruits and vegetables are handled, and a number of grocers' specialties. One man is employed, and a team is used for taking and delivering orders.

Mr. Goodrich has had experience in this line from boyhood, as he was formerl\- associated with his father, H. A. Goodrich, who owned a grocery store in the center of the city for a considerable time. He is a member of the Board of Trade and Merchants' Association, and is numbered among those interested in the welfare of our community.

Finlanders Stock Co

Every progressive city has among its increasing population a considerable portion recruited from the older countries across the Atlantic. Fitchburg's accession from other shores has been welcomed with general sincerity and cordiality, as a large proportion of them are most intelligent people, and have been promptly assimilated into citizenship, in all that the term implies.

With them have come business men trained in the language, needs, and preferences of their countrymen, who have soon developed an equal adaptability to American trade customs. The merchants of foreign origin doing business in Fitchburg have proved to be capable and upright mercantile men. Such are the gentlemen who are interested in the Finlanders Stock Co.. 24 and 26 Academy street, and this business, established in 1904, has become one of the soundest concerns in this section.

Though catering principally to their own nationality, the people who have come from Finland, the store also does business with others, for a large and complete line of staple and fancy groceries is dealt in. Fresh and cured meats are also handled, and the volume of business done may be judged from the fact that twelve people are employed, and three teams kept in use.

A separate part of the premises i.s occupied by a department of boots and shoes, and all kinds of footwear are carried, and sold at reasonable prices.

of banking and real estate the company is frequently consulted by many of the Finnish people, and by others who have reliance upon the knowledge and integrity of the management.

The company is composed of some ten stockholders, and the officers of the corporation are Matti Kotilainen, president; Henry Aironen, treasurer and manager; Hjalmar Kentio, secretary.

'treasurer Aironen has been a resident of Fitchburg for eighteen years, and has been in the grocery business for eleven. His experience and ability have been markedly demonstrated in the founding and administration of the Finlanders Stock Co., and with the cooperation of other investors he has promoted it to its present success.

Mr. Aironen has the complete confidence of his countrymen settled in Fitchburg, and performs such offices for them as make him a most desirable friend. But his good reputation is by no means limited to that one class, for he has attained an enviable standing in the esteem of his acquaintances regardless of their nativity.

Though established but a little more than three years, the Fitchburg Remnant Store, 349 Main street, under the proprietorship of J. W. Caldwell, has become one of the most popular trading places in this section.

The reason is not far to seek, for everyone, whether dependent upon a daily wage or with the secure feeling of a competence back of him, likes to know that he is getting his money's worth in any purchase he makes, and the feeling is that this is the place to get the greatest value possible for the amount expended.

Originally established as a remnant store, numerous lines have been added, so that in dry and fancy goods and smallwares there is as complete a stock shown as is carried in this end of the city. The remnant business, however, remains a most important part of the transactions, for Mr. Caldwell keeps in close touch with the manufacturers, and has particular facilities for getting remnants or seconds from mills.

In consequence, in woolens, worsteds, broadcloths, silks and other productions of textile plants he has the first selection of any goods that for some reason or other are not available for the wholesale trade. Ginghams, cottons, and linens are also secured in this way. One of tfie pleasures in trading with the Fitchburg Remnant Store is that if there is some slight injury to the goods, even though it does not show, the customer is informed of what the depreciation is, and is never deceived in any way.

Special makes of hosiery are secured from the manufacturers direct, and at all times there are likely to be bargains in mittens, gloves, sweaters, skirts or other garments; and in bolt materials, trouserings or suitings, there is always a desirable assortment, some of which is secured from our Fitchburg mills.

Mr. Caldwell, the proprietor of this business, was for twelve years with the Chamberlain-Huntress Co., and was in charge of the silk department. In December, 1908, he founded his present business, and his experience, adaptability and enterprise has resulted in his present success.

Morrill Bros

Signs of progress in the exterior of buildings mean a corresponding advancement in the interior transactions, all of which is creditable to the individual cencerns and to the community generally.

Among the property most recently improved is the building nearly opposite the Sentinel oifice containing the clothing and men's furnishing business of Morrill Bros., 364 Main street, which has been thoroughly reconstructed and now presents a modern, up-to-date and attractive appearance, in a marked contrast to its former aspect, which was that of a relic of Fitchburg's rural period.

Particularly fine show windows are now one of the features that excite attention. Large panes of plate glass have been installed, the space deepened, and the firm has responded by using them to the best advantage with displays of a finely-selected stock.

Ceilings and wood work have been whitened and embellished and the store is now one of the most conveniently arranged in this section of the city.

The business has been established twelve years and in that time a reputation for high-class service has been developed that will now be more easily maintained with the help of the new facilities and accommodations.

Men's and youths' clothing is carried in well-selected lines, the policy of the house being to choose those makes of garments that will give satisfaction through durability, style and seasonable patterns; so that all stock handled is of desirable texture, popular design and lasting workmanship.

This firm also makes a specialty of taking measurements for suits or separate garments and of providing custom-made clothing at ready-made clothing prices.

Hosiery, neckwear, underclothing and other men's furnishings are dealt in and the complete stock affords a sufficient variety to please men of discriminating taste.

Mr. Morrill has been associated with the concern since it was organized by his father, who bought out the Whitney business in the Fitchburg Savings Bank building. Five years later it was turned over to the two sons of Mr. Morrill, and the death of one of the boys and the parent occurring five and three years ago, the entire responsibilities have been assumed by the present head of the house.

Mr. Morrill is one of the most alert and enterprising young business men in Fitchburg, and square dealing, courteous attention and fair prices have been features that have been pursued with profit and reputation to the concern and with satisfaction to the public.

Cleghorn Square

In 1894, Hon. Arthur H. Lowe, then mayor of Fitchburg, suggested to the school committee that instead of enlarging the city training school for teachers, they petition the state board of education to establish a state normal school in Fitchl)urg. The suggestion was acted upon and resulted in the establishment of four new normal schools, in Fitchburg, Lowell, North Adams, and Hyannis.

The Fitchburg school was the first of the four to be organized, on July 1, 1895. For tne first year and a half it was housed in temporary quarters in the old high school building on Academy street. In September. 1895, the school opened with a class of 46 young ladies, in charge of a principal and three teachers. In December, 1896, the new building was ready for occupancy.

Since then the school has graduated 16 classes, - 609 students from the elementary course, 181 from the advanced course, and 19 from the kindergarten course. It has given certificates to 139 completing one-year courses. While the great majority of its graduates are at work in Massachusetts, some of them are teaching in Japan, Porto Rico, Hawaii, California, Oregon, Idaho, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Florida, and nine other states, and are receiving salaries ranging from $9 a week to $2500 a year. Of its past students, two are serving as superintendents of schools, 17 as teachers In normal schools, and a large number as principals of buildings. Many are teaching in the best school systems in Boston, New York City, Newton, Springfield, Cambridge, Brookline and other large cities and towns in Massachusetts; in Montclair, Morristown, East Orange, Englewood, and other places in New Jersey. The initial salaries received by students graduating from the two years' course last June ranged from $8.60 to $14.00 a week, the average salary to start being $10 a week. The initial salaries received by students graduating from the four years' course last June ranged from $11.60 to $17.50 a week, the average to start being $14.00 a week.

The growth of the school in equipment, efficiency, and numbers has been remarkable. From a small school with a few hundred dollars' worth of property in a rented building, it has developed into one of the largest schools in the state, being second in numbers last year, and graduating the lar.gest class. It is now housed in four large buildings with 15 acres of land, with property worth about one-half a million dollars and with two city school buildings under its charge for purposes of observation and practice. In the schools of observation and practice there are nearly 1000 pupils. The normal school will enroll for the coming year nearly 300 pupils.

Increase in equipment has resulted in greater efficiency, and greater efficiency has brought larger numbers, and at the same time has reduced the cost per pupil to the state. The cost per pupil is from a financial point of view the chief consideration, so long as normal schools of the state do not graduate enough teachers to fill the vacancies. At present, the number graduated each year from the normal schools is less than one-half the number of new teachers annually required. As teachers' salaries are constantly increasing, there is no better opening for a young man or young woman of the right personality and education.

The faculty, September, 1895, numbered four; on September, 1911, it numbered 30. Several members of the faculty are authors of popular text books: Principal John G. Thompson of the "New Century Readers;'' E. A. Kirkpatrick, of "Inductive Psychology," "Fundamentals of Child Study" - translated into several languages and used as a text in normal schools in Europe and America, "Genetic Psychology and The Individual in the Making;" Preston Smith, of "Easy Experiments in Physics;" Flora E. Kendall of "Quotations from Standard Authors;" Nellie B. Allen of "Industrial Studies in the United States;" Abby P. Churchill of "Birds in Literature;" and Florence M. Miller of "Historical Pageants."

The faculty has increased in size largely because of the increase in number of students, but also because of the new courses offered by the school. In 1895, the school provided but one course; now eight are offered, which are described briefly in the folowing paragraphs.

For the first few months after entering the normal school, all students are given an opportunity to become somewhat acquainted with the work of grades one to eight inclusive, and with the children of different ages as found in the various grades. Much time is spent in visiting the schools, in discussing courses of study for the different grades, in getting a general survey and knowledge of the work of all grades. The students then choose the grade preferred, and for the rest of the course devote special attention to the work of that grade. In this connection, they are divided into groups, including those taking; 'Phe elementary course - two years. Fits for teaching in grades one to six inclusive; the advanced course - four years. Fits for teaching in grades below the high school.

The advanced course is the elementary course plus a post-graduate course of two years, the first spent in teaching on salary under the supervision of the normal school, the second in study at the school. Admission to this course is by invitation of the normal school faculty, the students who have done the best work as students in the normal school proper, and as teachers in the practice school, being invited to remain for the post-graduate course. From 20 to 30 can be invited back each year, being given opportunity to teach for the first postgraduate year on salary in grades one to eight inclusive, as they may elect. This course gives a fuller preparation for teaching in any grade below the high school, and while it will pay a teacher preparing for primary or intermediate grades to take the course if she has opportunity, it is especially necessary for students preparing to teach grades seven and eight and nine, two years being too short a time to prepare adequately teachers for the grammar grades. Graduates from the advanced course command excellent positions, and large salaries, especially in the grammar grades.

One-year course for teachers: Teachers who bring satisfactory evidence of successful work are admitted to this course without examination. Fifteen have already been admitted this year, 'i'hey have had from two to seven years' experience in teaching. Students completing this course, who bring satisfactory testimonials of previous work in teaching, are in good demand by superintendents.

One-year course for college graduates: Open to college graduates and others of maturity and experience. No examination required. This course offers an opportunity to college graduates for actual practice in teaching.

Special music course, one or two years: For those intending to become supervisors of music. So far 14 students are enrolled in the course for this year.

Two courses, tne course for grammar .masters and the practical arts course, are arranged for young men. In September, 1910, nine young men entered the school, two for the grammar masters' course, and seven for the practical arts course. A much larger number applied for admission in September, 1911, - three for the grammar masters' course, and 19 for the practical arts course. Dr. Snedden, Commissioner of Education for Massachusetts, believes that the demand for young men as teacners of manual training and industrial work is going to be very large in the next few years, and that, unless steps are taken at once to prepare young men for this work, very few will be available. Last June, two of the young men in the practical arts course were offered positions at the end of the first year at $800. Both, however, decided to remain to complete the two years. Young men who have a liking for industrial work, and who prepare themselves for it, will be in line for good positions and rapid promotion. There is also a good demand for young men as grammar masters.

course. Opportunities are open to young men to earn part of their expenses by serving as janitors and by doing other forms of work. Opportunities are open to young women to earn all of their living expenses by spending three years on the two years' course and by doing housework at the dormitory. The alumni loan fund is also available for students wishing to borrow money to help meet their expenses. No one who earnestly desires to fit for teaching, and who gives promise of making an efficient teacher, should give up a normal school course simply because of lack of necessary funds.

The Fitchburg state normal school would probably never have been established had it not been for the earnest and intelligent efforts of the citizens of Fitchburg, headed by Hon. Arthur H. Lowe, and its development could not possibly have been as rapid had the people of Fitchburg dropped their interest with its establishment. No other single factor has meant so much to the school. The city officials, the Fitchburg Board of Trade and Merchants' Association, the Woman's Club, the Central Labor Union, have in a very real, even though an unofficial way, served as local trustees and have with vigor and intelligence presented at varthe creation of Fitchburg people. As long as their interest continues, and they support and sustain it, it must go on to greater things.

Fergenson, Tailor

Though the contention is often made that the merchant tailor is becoming less and less patronized, this condition of affairs does not obtain in Fitchburg. In other communities, where the people are less particular, the ready-made clothing dealers are perhaps adding to their patronage at the expense of the custom tailors. Here, however, the trade of the dealers does not encroach upon the field of the tailors, for there are people who are satisfied with something off the counter made the same way for thousands of different people, and on the other hand there are those who want something peculiar to themselves, made for their personality, and to fit their physique.

Main Street At Putnam And Oliver

of the Fitchburg state normal school has been practical rather than theoretical. This spirit has recently manifested itself in concrete form in the Practical Arts school which seeks in

Care of home: - Care of various rooms, sweeping and dusting: Cleaning sinks, bathtubs. windows, silver, etc.: I..aundry lessonsc Washing, starching ironing, and removing a new way to make all school work real to the pupil and to provide as far as possible by differentiated courses for the needs of children looking forward to different careers. Three courses are open to children attending this school (grades 7 and 8), viz.: a commercial course, a literary course, and a practical arts course. In the commercial course, 10 hours a week are spent on book-keeping. business arithmetic, typewriting, etc. In the literary course five hours a week are devoted to the study of German, and five hours a week to practical arts. In the practical arts course, 10 hours a week are spent on practical arts. In the practical arts course, during the year just closed, the boys completed the following work:

Ordinary Kepairs: - Faucets in the building repacked: School room desks and tables scraped and refinished: Setting glass: Lawn mowers taJcen apart, cleaned, oiled, and sharpened: Window screens painted, and

Wood- Working: - Work benches constructed: Assisted in making kitchen tables; Making teachers' desks for entire building: Building partitions and lockers: Making tool cabinet: Making over large oak tables into round table for faculty room: Making and toning picture frames: Building of cold frames: Sheathing the attic of Practical rainting and Finishing: - Steam pipes bronzed to match color of the walls: Floors oiled; Chairs for building bought in the white, finished and seated by pupils; Kitchen. dining-room, wood-working room, locker rooms painted: Work benches and teachers' desks finished: Library room painted and papered: Students' rooms in dormitory repainted.

Miscellaneous: - Work begun on building concrete basin for a Memorial fountain: Building of stone wall for laying out a ball field: Four large rooms and six offices in

Normal school building remodelled and painted: Setting out of 500 shrubs for beautifying of Day street grounds: Also setting out of miscellaneous shrubs around Practical Arts building.

Printing: - Invitations, programs, and tickets for entertainments given at the school: Circular postals and letters: Souvenir posttals with views of school buildings, school activities, etc.: Outlines of courses of study; Poems: Envelopes and letter paper: Pamphlets, "Social Life at the Fitchburg State Normal School" and "List of Past Students at State Normal School, Fitchburg, Mass."

Sewing: - (Hand and machine sewing): Sewing outfit, bag and needlebook: Cooking outfit, apron, cap and sleeves: Towels, holders: Curtains for gymnasium lockers: Sheets and pillow slips: Overalls and jumpers: Undergarments, petticoats, drawers, underskirts, corset covers, chemise: Mending,

Applied arts for the girls in connection w'ith the above work has included: Stenciling of designs upon work bags and needlebooks: Designing covers for. and binding

Typewriting: - (Students in Commercial Classes) : - Copying of letters to industrial plants in various towns and cities of Massachusetts. asking for material for industrial exhibit. Original letters to school children in different parts of New England and in other states, telling of Fitchburg industries, and requesting replies concerning the industries of their cities; Writing letters and invitations for the school: Manifolding copies of poems and songs used in seventh and eighth grades: Copying bills for books, school supplies, and materials used at Practical Arts School: Practice in writing business letters and business forms; Typewriting language and spelling lessons: Typewriting outlines of school work in geography: Typewriting copy for printing classes.

(The children in the practical arts course, boys and girls, have the use of the typew'riting machines for an hour each week for work in spelling and composition.) Pupils who complete in a satisfactory manner any one of the three courses are admitted to the high school.

Work plays a large part in the practical life, and should enter to a considerable degree the daily life of every person. Not only, therefore, is opportunity for practical work given to pupils in the practical arts school but to normal students as well. Many high school graduates who would make efficient teachers are so situated that they cannot afford the time and the money necessary for a normal school

Hastings Hall, Holt Street

Neighborhood Grocery Store That Is Numberedf Among City's Reliable Places A neighborhood without a grocery or meat store is badly handicapped, for few housekeepers want to be dependent upon tradesmen a mile or more away, especially for food supplies. This does not mean that neighborhood stores are patronized regardless of the service given. On the contrary, quite as much is expected of them as of the larger stores in the center of the city,.

View On Prospect Street

ious times to the board of education and to the legislature the needs of the school. The local representatives and senators for the district have always used their influence to secure necessary appropriations for the school. Supt. Edgerly, for the entire 16 years since the founding of the school, has practically been a member of its faculty, serving as a sort of principal emeritus without pay. Without his enthusiastic interest, sound advice, and indefatigable assistance, the school would never have reached its present standing. The Fitchburg state normal school is a state institution, but it is a state institution that is peculiarly

Among such men, who are only satisfied when they have consulted the best tailor, are many patrons of Fergenson, the tailor in Safety Fund building. This young business man has been established here since March, 1904, and by carrying a selected stock of materials, furnishing the best workmanship, and producing the latest styles in correctly fitting garments, he has annually added to his trade, and secured some of the best patrons in our city.

Trimmings, linings, etc., are supplied by him, and when a suit or coat or pair of trousers is finished by Mr. F'ergenson, the wearer has the satisfaction of knowing that it will not be duplicated and that it is both nobby and correct.

Harry Fergenson learned his trade in Russia, where thoroughness and long apprenticeship is demanded. He has been in the United States for about ten years, and was formerly located in Worcester. Mr. Fergenson is a citizen of the United States; is a member of the Fitchburg Board of Trade and Merchants' Association, and of Charles W. Moore lodge, A. F. & A. M., and is esteemed in our community for personal and mercantile qualifications.

Chamberlain-Huntress Co

and while It Is not demanded that they carry so large a stock, they must be sure to have a popular assortment of a quality that will give lasting satisfaction.

The store at the corner of Charles and Walton streets, under the proprietorship of E. L. Foskett for nearly five years, has been one of the reliable trading places in this section for about twelve years.

In that time, the patronage has expanded, and the reputation solidified, for square dealing and good goods has been the policy always pursued. Leadment being used that the finest fabrics are handled as successfully as coarser or stronger stuffs.

No one needs to be told that the starched waist, shirt, collar or cuff from a steam laundry preserves its good appearance twice as long as if it were done at home, and at the Palace Laundry every method that will produce a fine and lasting appearance is employed. That successful results have been obtained is conclusively shown by the large patronage enjoyed by this establishment. It is quite the largest business of its kind in Fitchburg, em-

The success of any concern may be gauged with a good degree of accuracy by the expansion that it makes. If it continues to occupy only the same floor-space which was sufficient accommodations the Chamberlain- Huntress Co. wanted, thirteen rooms were thrown into one. Additional second floor space will be taken on this year, for the history of this con-

Shop

Ing brands of staple and fancy groceries are dealt in, sauces, relishes, pickled and canned goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, bakery and dairy products, cured meats and provisions. The quality is skilfully selected, so that customers may be satisfied, and their permanent trade secured.

This location was used by Frank Smith for some six years, and one of his clerks succeeded him for a short time. In July, 1906, Mr. Foskett became proprietor, and has given a service winning praise and commendation.

Mr. Foskett has lived in Fitchburg the greater part of his life, and was formerly employed by a wholesale butter and egg concern. As a business man he possesses the confidence of the wholesale trade as well as of his retail customers, and has won this good-will through square dealing and fair conduct in all transactions. The premises occupied by him give him one of the best locations in this vicinity, and he has made it popular through first-class and reliable service.

Palace Steam Laundry

The time was, and not so very far distant, when people had only partial confidence in the methods of steam laundries, and that this feeling has largely passed away is due almost entirely to the laundries themselves. Take, for instance, the Palace Steam Laundry in this city. One who has ever had work done there is forever convinced of the superiority of steam work over hand or domestic processes, and those who have investigated the plant can readily see why this is so.

The Palace Steam Laundry occupies the entire building of three fioors and basement at 28 Putnam street. There is a separate department for every operation, and from the time a package is deposited here, there is individual care for each number, so that articles are almost never lost, or misplaced.

The most improved washing machinery is operated, and not only is absolute cleanliness insured, but rapid revolutions and superheated water do the work without half the friction or wear and tear that hand work would cause. The same rule holds good in every department, such highly improved equipploying some 50 people, and keeping in commission six or seven teams.

Lesure Bros., the proprietors, bought out William Hutcheon in April, 1906, after the laundry had had several owners. Lesure Bros, had purchased the Star Laundry two years previously, and in 1908 they combined the two. In addition to this movement, constant additions have been made in new machinery and tested devices for highclass work.

This firm put in new conveyancer drying room, where clothes are subject to great heat and are automatically hung and dried. Nine new wash wheels, making a capacity of sixteen, and a large new mangle traveleen added, six or seven thousand dollars have been spent to give Fitchburg one

F. W. Lesure and A. P. Lesure had l)oth been engaged in other vocations before forming this partnership. Their adaptabiiity was undoubtedly excepal, for they have made remarkable development and had unusual success. They are young men alert to every advance in this industry, and having made the Palace Steam Laundry foremost in this section, they are by no means content but are constantly improving equipment and methods wherever possible.

at the start, and with the same number of employees, it may, it is true, be a profitable undertaking, but it 'is certainly not progressive: nor can it be particularly alert to the demands of the times, especially in a growing city, since it would certainly have to make enlargements to meet them.

The Chamberlain-Huntress Co., 141- 147 Main street, has had a career of continual increase since the business was first established in March, 1888. This record must be taken to mean that the firm has not only pleased its early patrons, but has constantly added to that number; has extended departments, added to the quantity of stock carried, and practiced every method of modern merchandising to win approval, and to give Fitchburg

Though when the company began business at 147 Main street it was completely hemmed in by adjacent business concerns, additional room has been secured as opportunity presented itself, until now the company uses two to three times the space that it originally occupied. In 1896 the corner store which had been occupied by W. F. Lovering & Co. was leased. Five years ago, an upper part of the building was secured, an inner stairway cut through, and to afford the

Seventeen departments are promoted, and in dry goods, domestics, dress goods, ready-to-wear suits and garments, underwear, hosiery, gloves, furnishings, corsets, and other women's wear, this firm carries lines and quantity of goods that would not be duplicated outside of the largest cities. Carpets, upholstery, and draperies, compose one of the largest departments of this store, and the skilfully selected and extensive lines carried make this section a favorite resort for those who are furnishing their homes.

An immense reserve stock is carried, and there is little doubt that this concern has at hand the largest stock in its lines in this city. Shipments are received in the basement department, where extra stock is stored, and including the basement and the two upper floors, an area of eighteen to twenty thousand square feet is occupied. An average of forty- five people are employed, and an excellent delivery service is maintained.

'I'he Chamberlain-Huntress Co., inaugurated by W. P. Chamberlain and Frank Huntress in Keene, N. H., is now the owner of seven stores in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont; and the concentrated buying power of such a combination gives it a preference in the wholesale market that insures its getting the choicest selection of goods, and the lowest possible prices - advantages in which each of the stores share, and by which ail of their customers profit.

J. M. Hubbard and Charles W Starkey have been the representatives of the house since it was established here. Both had received an early training with the parent concern in Keene, and this experience, combined with the progressive methods and high standard of service that they have put in force here, have been responsible for the great expansion that has taken place, and the success that has accrued.

Messrs. Hubbard and Starkey are among Fitchburg's most alert and enterprising merchants, whose loyalty to the Chamberlain-Huntress Co. does not lessen their good-will or interest in the welfare of the community iti general.

Hastings Hall

The building illustrated on the opposite page is maintained as a residence for young women who are wage earners and si dents. It fills the place occupied by tliv Y. W. C. A. in other cities, and is directed by the Fitchburg Helping Hand association. It is named for the principal giver for its foundation, Mr. George H. Hastings.

H. C. Deane Machine Co

The proprietor of the H. C. Deane Machine Co., as well as the customers of the concern, are believers in quality, and it is this rule which has always been practiced, and which has made the standing and success of this industry what it is at present.

The company, with a large shop at 53 Water street, is the manufacturer of special machinery, and also does a large amount of repair work. Virtually any plan for a machine will be followed here accurately, and an equipment that meets the strictest xequirement will be produced on order.

The company is also constantly enga,ged in the manufacture of a number of special machines, and makes a particularly large line of emery grinders. Saw arbors are another specialty this house turns out, and these goods, with a number of other products, are sent from Maine to Oregon, and are known in every market for the fine material used, accuracy and thoroughness of workmanship, and the long period of use these machines will endure.

The plant is modernly equipped with the machines most effective for the operations carried on, and as improvements are made, the old machinery is replaced or up-to-date attachments added.

H. C. Deane, the sole proprietor of the business, has been in Fitchburg for forty years, and has been in the machine trade all that time. He was formerly employed at three of the machine and engine factories in this city. He entered business for himself with a partner in 1888, and five' years later the partnership was dissolved. Mr. Deane has been the head of affairs since August 1, 1893, and has occupied his present plant on Water street for the last twelve years.

Mr. Deane is probably one of the best-known mechanics in our city, and is undoubtedly one of the best informed and experienced of any who is the owner of a business.

The career of his industry has been especially gratifying, inasmuch as the concern has had a c '.istructive and advancing career. T'.ie relations between the head of th< house and his employees has been one of mutual consideration and helpfulness. There has been complete harmony between them, and the pleasant associations not only make for good l)usiness conditions, but contentment assists in more interested and consequently better workmanship.

The Deane Machine Co. is one of the most creditable industries in Fitchburg, and the good-will and cooperation that is in evidence there is a high compliment to Mr. Deane as a business man and employer.

George Lamothe

Though Fitchburg has never at any time been subject to a "boom" development, there has always been a healthy growth and advancement, and this fact is brought home to us, when we realize that some of our now largely populated neighborhoods were but sparsel5' settled less than twenty years ago.

George Damothe, the grocer at 40 Daniels, corner of Plymouth street, has been established in this district for nineteen years, but has occupied various sites in that period. He was first located on the premises which he owns today. But Daniels street was not then cut through, and when the street was made, and the grade established, the basement that Mr. Lamothe occupied was done away with. He was for a time on the other side of Daniels street, also on the opposite corner of Plymouth street, and about five years ago raised the old building which he owns, and constructed a commodious and modern store.

Mr. Lamothe deals in staple and fancy groceries, fresh and cured meats, vegetables and provisions, and carries one of the largest and best-graded stocks handled in the Cleghorn district.

His son, Eugene Lamothe, who has been connected with him since he founded the business, is now a partner, and modern methods are operated in connection with the reliable dealing for which the concern has always been known.

Mr. Lamothe came to Fitchburg from Oakdale, where he had been in the grocery business, so that he is a thoroughly experienced merchant. He has been a resident of our city for twentyone years, and he and his son are among the soundest business men of this section, and residents of responsibility and public spirit.

J. E. Paris Co

Specialty houses achieve the highest distinction in their particular lines of trade. People appreciate the fact that no one can handle a dozen different lines with as much care for each as the man who gives his efforts to the direction of one or two particula' lines. Consequently suit and garment houses, such as the Paris Store, 153 Main street, are among the most successful business enterprises of recent years.

J. E. Paris, president and treasurer of the J. E. Paris Co., has been in business in Fitchburg since 1907. Returning early in 1911 to the sanupremises used when he first entered the merchandise field here, he has installed cabinets and made a number of improvements, most not.iple of which are the deepening of the display windows, and adding new fixtures ti> correspond.

Giving special attention to ready-towear goods, this company carries one of the largest and most exclusive stocks shown in this section of the county. Suits for women and children are handled in extensive lines each season, and the prices are varied so that every class of trade may be satisfied.

Separate skirts, waists, coats and ready-trimmed hats are dealt in, and a particular feature is made of the high-grade line of furs carried, the best skins being shown in different pieces and in natural and fast dyed colors.

Needed alterations are expertly made on all garments that are sold here, fifteen people being employed in the busy seasons, and seven all the year round.

Mr. Paris was formerly in the cloak and suit business in Manchester, N. H., and Lawrence, Mass., and previous to coming to this city had been in the wholesale trade for four years. He was formerly a partner of J. H. Brousseau; after which he became sole proprietor of a store on the other side of the street, and later in the Trust building from which he moved in January, taking the vacated Brousseau store.

Mr. Paris is one of the ablest specialty men in the city. He h.as had a constructive and successful career, and has supplied Fitchburg with one of the finest establishments in his line.

E. H. Reed

Granite and Marble Works Continued by a Descendant of the Founder Few industrial concerns in Fitchburg have had a longer or more honorable record than the granite and marble works under the proprietorship of E. H. Reed, 279 Main street.

The business was established in 1830, by a grandfather of the present owner, was continued by his father, and has more recently been conducted by the representative of the third generation.

From the long period in which this house has been established, comes its reputation for reliability and thoroughness, for the men at the head of the trade have always been skilful and have dealt squarely and uprightly.

Though the nature of the business has changed in later days, the policy of this house has not. For memorials it furnishes the stone pieces most appropriate for such purposes, and sets them up skilfully, and for permanence. Instead, however, of carrying a limited stock, as was the custom in early days, Mr. Reed has dealings with well-known quarrymen in different sections, getting his marble or granite already cut and finished, and doing the lettering at his own plant. He consequently has at his disposal the facilities of the greatest stone producers in this country, and deals largely in Quincy granite and Vermont marble.

E. H. Reed entered this business as a boy, was taught his trade of stonecutter, and was an assistant and partner with his father, before succeeding to the property. He was born and has always lived in Fitchburg. He is an industrial man of ability and integrity, and a citizen who merits the high regard in which he is held.

Dr. Edward A. A. Lamere

As the care of the teeth has become more and more a matter of importance to well-bred people, the skill and the standing of the dental profession advanced correspondingly. This is because patients are discriminating in their choice of dentists, and only men of thoroughness and ability achieve lasting reputation and success.

Fitchburg is fortunate in having men of the most pronounced ability in this profession, practitioners who are on the watch for modern inventions and treatments, and who give most efficient service in the care and preservation

Among the dentists favorably known and having a patronage equal to their facilities, is Dr. Edward A. A. Lamere, with office at 229 Main street. Safety Fund building.

Dr. Lamere came to this city in the summer of 1896 and for three years was associated with Dr. James Ross, after which he became established for himself. Dr. Lamere was born in 1872, was graduated from the Lowell High school in 1889, and from the Harvard Dental school in 1893, so that he had three years' experience before locating in this city. He is a member of the Harvard Dental Alumni, and of several local organizations, and is most estimably regarded in this community for his personal as well as professional qualities.

Fitchburg Lunch

The establishment of the Fitchburg Lunch at 213 Main street has been a marked addition to the city's facilities for caring for the hungry, both local and visiting.

The Fitchburg Lunch is conducted on the plan that is in vogue in many of the largest cities, where chair lunches have become known as the most excellent and economical way of eating.

The customer attends almost entirely to his own wants, giving his order, supplying himselt with flavorings, silver and glassware, and recelv'ing his food in his own hands.

The advantage of this system is that it does away with the services of many attendants, and the customer is required to pay for his food only.

The money saved through this method is put into the food or prices, so that patrons are sure of getting the best quality of food at the lowest possible prices.

A capable chef is employed, the cooking is expertly done, and the flavoring suits the most particular people. All cooking is done in their own light and sanitary kitchen under the strictest supervision. A number of special dishes are prepared for each meal, but order cooking is done promptly.

When this establishment was first opened up it was equipped with chairs only, but the ladies soon found out where to get good food at reasonable prices, and they patronized the Fitchburg Lunch to such an extent that the management extended its courtesy to them by installing tables to accommodate twenty-five persons or more. These tables are reserved for ladies and their escorts, and here many extra conveniences are offered, and everything is served from the tray.

H. F. C. Merriam, the proprietor, came to this city from Springfield, and in reorganizing this old restaurant put in entirely new furnishings and equipment, and an up-to-date policy that has won commendation and patronage.

Mrs. C. A. White

The business conducted for many years by Mrs. Annie McLane Sawyer was bought in 1910 by Mrs. Charles A. White, who has continued in operation the reliable methods of the former prprietor. The store occupied at 199 Main street is one of the best known in our city, for it has been connected with the millinery and hair goods trade for the last half century, and has had a patronage that has always depended upon it.

Under the proprietorship of Mrs. White, old customers receive the same satisfaction as ever, while the up-todate attractions and stock offered are sufficient to add to the volume of business forme-ly done.

One of t e best selected stocks of millinery go_Jds in this city is carried, and all the fashionable shapes in headwear are shown as soon as they are put on the market, as well as ribbons, silks, velveis, feathers and foliage, and any novelties that may be fashionable, and orderfi are filled from the stock In hand.

particular trade comes from women who desire something different and want their hats becoming to their individuality, and distinctive in material and style. Such fastidious patrons form the larger part of the trade here.

Hair goods are also dealt in by this concern, which carries all the separate pieces generally needed these days for fashionable hairdressings. Combs of every kind, pins, barrettes and other shell goods for the hair are also handled.

Mrs. White had been employed in this city several years previous to her proprietorship, and was formerly connected with some of the most exclusive shops in the Back Bay, Boston. Her capability has been demonstrated, and she is a leader in her line and warmly esteemed, for her personal as well as commercial (lualifications.

Naming a class of shoes doesn't mean that the customer is going to be wholly satisfied. The footwear may be well made, and have the style most desired.

but if it doesn't feel good on the foot there is no satisfaction in owning it. This is where Royleigh's, 170 Main street, shows its advantage over the general run of shoe stores. The shoe must fit before the customer is allowed to take It. There Is no saying "this is your size" or "this is the make you wanted.'' Measurements are (taken; the foot is judged as a person stands upon it and the style of shoe that is applicable for it is advised and fitted. No merchant in our city has given more thorough attention to his business than George W. Royleigh, and his trade has been built up by the methods employed and the square dealing given every customer.

The leading lines carried are Cross .and Hurley for women, and Hurley and Ralston Health for men, the prcd'.icts of the best manufacturers in the country, Lynn, Rockland and Brockton being the shoe centers where they are produced. Each line is known for the number and variety of lasts used, so that a foot of any shape may be fitted, the workmanship is unexcelled, and durable leather in seasonable qualities and colors is used.

Added to these fundamental facts is the always important one that at Royleigh's the foot is given scientific .ind accurate attention, and fitted according to its re- (Luirements. Four capable clerks are trained n this policy w'hich was inaugurated by Mr. Royleigh when he took charge of the store.

Fancy slippers and low shoes for dress or evening w'ear are shown in the largest and most desirable lines in our city, and attention is given to their fitting as well as of shoes for common wear.

With such a complete line of leather footwear, it goes without saying that a full assortment of rubber goods is also carried; and if anything which l-'itchburg as manager for D. G. Wallace, and purchasing the business a year and a half later. A number of attractive ideas have been put in operation by him. The gi-een cartons characteristic of the house blend with the fixtures. and this spring the office was removed further liack, electric lights were installed, other improvements made, and more space given.

The business has been one of the most successfully developed in Fitchburg in recent years, and. Royleigh's stands for the highest and best in the shoe trade. It is a demonstration of the fact that quality and service are most necessary for prosperous merchandising and a sound reputation.

Dr. E. H. Page

The old establishment of a mercantile house is considered one of its valuable assets, and what is true in the business world is somewhat true in professional circles. The prestige of long establishment in the dental profession is not as important as in some other circles, for later years have seen very numerous changes and improvements that some of the older practitioners are slow to grasp. Consequently sufficient time to demonstrate one's ability is important, though the period should not be so extended as to give the idea that the dentist is old-fashioned.

Dr. E. H. Page, with office in the Iver Johnson building, has been located here for fifteen years, and in that time, has given proof of his efficiency and experience, and has also shown that he adopts all the advanced methods accepted in dentistry.

His office is one of the best known in our city, being located in the best and most modern office building in Fitchburg, and his patronage is one of the largest and most desirable.

Dr. Page was brought up in the atmosphere of this profession, as his father was a dentist, - two uncles, and six cousins taking up the same line of work. Though having from boyhood a practical experience he passed two and one-half years at the Harvard Dental school, and in theory as well as operations, is one of the most scientific and skilful practitioners In this city.

Dr. Page is keenly interested in musical matters, and is director of music at the Calvlnistlc church. He is the leading singer in the city, and takes part In many of the affairs where music is a feature, his talents being appreciated, and his willingness to assist others of similar tastes being commended.

Holland

Though the ready-made clothing dealers can convince many people that such garments are as good and as high-grade as anything that can be procured, their arguments have never convinced the large number of men who still demand the service of a custom tailor, and also demand that their tailor shall be the best qualified and most expert in this industry.

The name of Holland has stood for the best and most efficient in custom tailoring in Fitchburg for a number of years, and this reputation has become so recognized that few dispute it. If anyone should assert otherwise, the fact would be easily substantiated by the trade to which Mr. Holland caters, and the amount of business which he annually does.

The stock carried is one indication of the transactions conducted here; the number of people employed is additional proof, as in the season twentyone people are engaged, one of the largest crews employed in this county, outside of the city of Worcester.

There is, however, no opposition to ready-made dealers in clothing, for Mr. Holland does not seek this class of trade. His customers comprise men who want particular goods, correct style and perfect-fitting garments. They are fastidious in their dress, and know that satisfaction can only be had when a first-class tailor is employed, and the goods are chosen from the newest materials.

Mr. Holland carries in stock all the textures on the market for each season, with appropriate linings and trimmings, and gives each customer expert service, which means in the end a suit or garment, high-grade in material, first-class in every detail of workmanship, conforming to the stature of the person for whom it is made, in a faultless manner.

J. A. Holland has been a tailor in Fitchburg for some twenty-five years, and the proprietor of his own establishment for twenty years. He occupies large and convenient rooms in Coggshall block, 162 Main street.

In attaining the success with which Mr. Holland is now credited, square dealing has always been practiced. His ability as a tailor has been supplemented by his integrity as a business man; he is regarded as the foremost in this industry in our city, and is also esteemed for the uprightness which has characterized his mercantile career and crowned his citizenship.

The Park Pharmacy

In any Massachusetts city which has shown rapid growth in recent years, it is practically necessaiw to have tradesmen of different nationalities. Fitchburg has been most fortunate, not only in the number and character of its European recruits, but in the calibre of the business men who come with their compatriots and attend to their wants in the new stores they establish. They have found this a fertile Held, and many have soon attained a position in the affairs of the city needing no apology from any standpoint. The proprietors of the Park Pharmacy are an instance of this, for the two young men at the head of this concern for the past four years are business men who would be welcome in any place.

J. A. Soderstrom was born in Sweden and had several years' experience in the drug business before coming to this country. W. M. Heikkinen was a druggist in his native country of Finland, and in other parts of Europe. Thus we have a firm that is not only capable to attend to the needs of their own countrymen, but which has had such varied experience that their services are sought by discriminating people in all classes.

The Pharmacy at 366 Main street has been established here since 1903, but its greatest success has been under the present proprietorship. In a comparatively short time they have become known as experts, and have gained one of the largest prescription trades in the city, over 26,000 having been filled and almost as many old ones refilled.

All drugs and chemicals are dealt in, druggists' sundries, pharmaceutical supplies and sick room goods, while soda, smokers' goods and other lines usually handled by druggists are shown here in selected assortments.

Mr, Soderstrom has been in this country since 1898, and came to Fitchburg from Worcester. Mr. Heikkinen has been in the United States a much shorter time. Both, however, are most capable and skilful in their profession, are business men of sound principles, and have made a success of their enterprise most gratifying to themselves and to their many well-wishers.

Robert Wagner & Co

In these days of pure food laws and precautionary measures in the manufacture of any eatable, the public is guarded as never before against impurities or unwholesome products. Yet there are concerns upon whom these new laws have had no effect, because sanitary premises were their habit and rule before the statutes requiring such conditions were enacted.

Robert Wagner & Co., the sausage manufacturers, with plant and market at 132 Kimball street, have conducted their business in an efficient and painstaking manner, which has been realized by the public, who have testified to this belief by the large and increasing patronage bestowed upon the firm.

The building occupied was erected in the spring of 1910, and it has a complete modern equipment for the manufacture of every kind of sausage. The machinery used is renewed every two years, and absolutecleanliness is maintained in every process.

The best meats and other materials are used by Mr. 'Wagner for sausages, frankfurters, bolognas and other products of this nature, and the sausage manufactured by him are sold not only in Fitchburg and vicinity, but in all parts of Worcester county, and through southeastern Massachusetts as far as New Bedford. The retail trade is heavy, though the largest transactions are in the wholesale line.

Fresh sausages of every description are offered in the market of Robert Wagner & Co., and all other cured and fresh meats are dealt in. Seven men are employed in both departments, and two teams are kept constantly in use.

Robert Wagner learned his trade of sausage maker in the Fatherland, and has been in this country some twelve years, first employed in New York, Schenectady, and Manchester, N. H., and. locating in Fitchburg in 1901. He owns the property which he occupies, and last year rebuilt it, making a onestory building for the store, surmounted by a modern tenement which he occupies.

Mr. Wagner has gained signal success in the ten years he has been doing business in our city, is reckoned among our sound and enterprising business men, and is regarded as a desirable and estimable resident.

S. O. Newton

A central location, complete and high-class stock and enterprising methods have been the means adopted by S. O. Newton, 201 Main street, for developing his business as a stationer and newsdealer in the past three years.

The business dates back to 1902, when it was established by G. W. Porter. In the subsequent period there have been a number of changes; the stock has been increased, and a proportionate amount of new trade has been attracted. It is a location that is convenient for transient as well as permanent patronage, and as each customer is given consideration and attention, there is a satisfaction In trading there that induces customers to return, and to recommend it to others.

handles an assortment that is sufficient for any demand, with prices and service that are satisfactory. Rubber stamps of all kinds are made to order, and every commission is filled promptly. Bound and loose-leaf ledgers, cash books, and other office supplies are shown in the variety that is desired by small or large mercantile or manufacturing houses, while in stationery of all kinds, the makes of goods and the styles appropriate for office or personal correspondence in bulk, fancy package and boxed stationery are in stock.

Cameras, cardboard for mounting, and paper for printing, are among the photographic goods carried, and this house shows one of the largest and most complete lines of picture postals that is displayed in this city. Souvenirs for the different holidays and seasons are carried in the newest designs and materials, and novelties in this line are exhibited as soon as ihe manufacturers place them upon the market.

It is by having a knowledge of what the public demands, and anticipating their desires that the present volume of business has been built up. Mr. Newton, the proprietor, has been associated with Fitchburg at different periods of his life, and his mercantile career has been assisted by his acquaintance in this city, and the up-todate policy which he has put in effect.

He graduated from the business college here, after which he was a bookkeeper in Leominster; later he learned the baby carriage trade in Gardner. On buying out Mr. Porter he returned to this city, and through his energy and uprightness, and the confidence that the public had in him, he has had a consistent development to his present success.

Charles Tapply

The neighborhood, stores, while in most cases not as large as those in the centre of the city, have their particular office and serve a purpose that the larger establishments can not. That is, the housekeeper finding she wants something immediately would be very much at a loss if she had to wait for it to be delivered from a store a mile away. Consequently the convenience of such a business as that of Charles Tapply, at 88 'Winter street, is appreciated

Though the stock carried is necessarily small as compared with some, it is nevertheless particularly well selected, Mr. Tapply knows the needs of his customers, and can fill their requirements without carrying the surplus quantity necessary if he were catering to a transient trade.

Bulk groceries, prepared and uncooked foods, canned goods, bakery products, fruits and confectionery are sold; also teas, coffees and butter, and reasonable prices are always charged.

Before locating in Fitchburg, Mr. Tapply was a police officer in Newton for some fifteen years, and he has been a resident of our city for five years. He has made his store favorably known by his enterprising management, has an established trade in wall papering and interior work, and as a business man and resident is identified with the best interests of the community.

The old saying that you can fool the people some of the time has never been experimented with by the firm of J. S. Smiley. Since the name of Smiley became established in mercantile circles in Fitchburg, it has stood for square dealing, and as people have become convinced that this is the policy of the house, they have had greater and. greater confidence in it, not only trading there themselves but recommending others to do the same. The Smiley concern, in consequence, is one of the most successful in our city and is second to none in its reputation for reliability.

It is a representative of the Smiley system, half a dozen stores in New England having relation to each other, so that their buying is done comblnedly, each getting the benefit of the low price given the largest buyers, and having the choice of goods offered the heaviest purchasers. Thus, when something is offered at such a remarkably low price as to create astonishment, the reason is that it was possible to do it through the Smiley system, which has four stores in" Maine, and one in Worcester, in addition to that in Fitchburg.

The women's ready-to-wear department is most completely stocked, and the lines shown here represent in styles, materials and reasonable prices, the most advantageous and attractive offers made at any time in this city. Dry goods, domestics, cottons, linens, women's furnishings, fancy goods, hosiery, gloves, corsets, neckwear, etc., are some of the Smiley store departments, and each carry large assortments.

Blankets, curtains and. pillows are another line carried, and the second floor is used for the display of these goods and for reserve stock. The basement also is used for stock, giving a capacity of about 6500 square feet. Thirteen people are employed.

The store was established in 1898 by D. O. Smiley. J. S. Smiley joined him two years later and the firm of Smiley Bros, was formed. In June, 1903, J. S. Smiley became sole proprietor, and there has been a continu d development in the eight years following.

Mr. Smiley is one of Fitchburg's most enterprising and progressive merchants, whose methods are not only creditable to himself but to this community.

The city enjoys the privileges and service of one of the best free public hospitals in New England. The farsighted wisdom of the late Gardner S. Burbank, who made a fortune in business here, gave it back to the community, for he bequeathed his estate of substantially half a millon of dollars to the city for this purpose after life enjoyment of it by his wife, "whose good judgment has so greatly aided me in all the affairs and purposes of my life," he said in his will.

The provisions of the will provided for the establishment of the hospital at the death of his wife. Desirous to see the work begun sooner that she might herself have the gratification of seeing the institution ministering as her husband had planned, Mrs. Burbank agreed in 1893 to assume the interest on $100,000, if the city would secure legislation enabling it to borrow that sum outside the debt limit, and to expend it in the directions of their common interest and her desire; the principal of the obligation to be cancelled out of the trust funds.

The plan was set on foot, and after some search for a suitable location, the Nichols farm, so called, on Prospect Hill, was bought, and the mansion house adapted to the needs of the work.

No sooner opened than the hospital was quickly serving the purposes designed for it, and in a degree that was highly gratifying. One hundred and forty- three patients were admitted the first year. In 1898 it was found that all hope of being content with the accommodations at hand must be abandoned and Mrs. Burbank agreed again to assume the interest on an additional sum of $100,000 for the erection of a larger and complete and permanent plant. Straightway the needful steps were taken and a 50-bed hospital on the cottage plan, but all connected, was built. Men's and women's wards at opposite ends of the plant, surgical ward, operative departments, administration buildings with apartments for private patients and the nurses, with all needful etiuipment, was constructed.

Since then the hospital has served every call upon it amply, though at times the number of patients crowded hard upon the accommodations at hand. A total of 6175 patients had l)een admitted up to January 1, 1911.

Mrs. Burbank herself desiring to share in the benefactions of her husband, placed $27,500 in the hands of one of her trustees some years before her death, and this with its accumulations amounted to a few dollars less than $40,000 when the trust became available, after Mrs. Burbank's death in 1908. This sum erected arid furnished a nurses' home adjacent to the hospital, where the superintendent of nurses lives, and where 38 rooms are available for the pupil and nursing staff of the hospital.

The opening of this building relieved the main hospital plant materially, and has been of vast benefit in many ways to the administration of the work.

The settlement of Mrs. Burbank's estate meant the payment to the hospital trustees - an Independent incorporated body apart from the city council - of the proceeds of the fund, which were $518,769.69. Upon receipt of the funds the hospital bonds were cancelled, and the net Income-yielding principal is .i bit over $328,000. The income is not sufficient to meet the needs of the hospital. but the city supplies the remainder by annual appropriation.

The medical and surgical service at the hospital is given without money and without price by the medical men of the city, in the same spirit in which the hospital was founded.

Mr. Burbank provided that "modfrate and reasonable charge" be made against those who are able to pay for treatment, but also nobly required that "those, on the other hand, who are in poverty and sickness shall ever be received and cared for kindly and tenderly without money and without price, and without regard to color or nationality."

This institution was not the first, however, of a public hospital character in the city. Just after the Revolution another was established by the then single town physician, Thaddeus Maccarty, who resided in Fitchburg as a general practitioner from 1773 to 1781.

At that time the ravages of small pox were most serious in degree and consequence, and in his professional life Dr. Maccarty was brought into intimate observation of the conditions and with the treatment of the disease by inoculation. In Great Barrington was a hospital for the care of inoculated, and thither the Fitchburg doctor went to study the treatment, and not strangely was himself stricken, and indeed studied the practice and theory of the disease and its cure.

In 1776 the court of general sessions, sitting at Worcester, authorized the establishment of hospitals "for the inoculation of the smallpox," and among the places named was Fitchburg. The regulations of these places need not be gone into here, but no patient was discharged until he had been washed in rum and vinegar.

was an article "To see if the town will allow of a hospital for the Anocalation for the Small Pox or act anything refering theirto." No record of action is found, for the court authority above referred to apparently was ample. Straightway a capacious building was erected on Buck Hill, 75x28 feet, with two smaller buildings near by. Over 800 persons were treated, and but five deaths occurred. Exclusive of board, the regular charge for treatment was £1, 10s., or its equivalent - 10 days of unskilled labor, or 10 bushels of corn.

Bon Ton Restaurant

People accustomed to eating at their own homes have but little realization of how much a community depends upon its eating places. It might be too much to say that the reputation of a city depends upon its hotels or restaurants, but visitors, nevertheless, carry away a good impression or an unfavorable one, according to the way they are housed and fed.. It means much then to the community to have such a modern and enterprising cafe as the Bon Ton, 106 Main street, particularly in the location where it is, across the street from the Boston & Maine station, where it offers transients as complete and satisfactory service as any to be found in this section, and the prices are particularly reasonable.

But the satisfaction of transients, is not all that is to the credit of this restaurant, for it numbers many steady patrons, whose well-being depends upon nourishing and appetizing food. This is the kind served at the Bon Ton. Regular meals are offered each day, with sufficient variety to relieve them of any monotony, the wholesale markets being searched daily, for tempting and seasonable materials, and wholesome and skilful cooking is done in the restaurant.

A specialty is made of the high grade of coffee used; home-made pastry is also one of the Bon Ton's particular recommendations, and it is one of the best places in town for a lunch of ready -cooked foods or for something cooked to order.

Though the restaurant has a seating capacity of only twenty-eight, from two to three hundred people are attended to daily here, and it is kept open night and day. Eleven people are employed.

Harry W. Page has been the proprietor of the business since May, 1909, and under his management the service of the Cafe has been remarkably increased, with the result that not only a larger, but a more desirable class of customers has been attracted, including particular people who appreciate the quality of the food and the prompt service given them.

The equipment has been renovated or renewed, and this spring a cement floor has been laid, and a modern and commodious refrigerator, and a new baking apparatus, one of the best in New England, have been installed. This gives the concern one of the best arranged kitchens in this section, though scrupulous cleanliness was always a rule, and the working department is as open to inspection as the dining room where the public is seated,

Mr. Page is a Fitchburg young man who has always lived in his home city, and was formerly employed in the grocery trade. He secured this business two years ago, and though the restaurant has been open some fifteen years, it is agreed that Mr, Page has accomplished more than any of his predecessors. The success of the Bon Ton should gratify all people who want Fitchburg to be known as a progressive community, and Mr. Page is to be commended for doing so much toward gaining us this reputation.

There are no more important business houses in our city than those retail concerns that are situated here and there through residential localities. No housewife wants to depend upon some concern a mile away from her home for the daily food supplies, and the groceries and markets that are established in different parts of the city, away from other retail enterprises, are conveniences that are appreciated and generallj' prosperous.

The store of E. G, Naramore, 10 Winthrop street, may be cited as an example of the best of these neighborhood stores. Such a business is not conducted with an idea that people must patronize it, but is managed so that folks enjoy trading there.

All the lines of goods that could be found in one of the stores in the center of the city are shown here, and quite as much pains is taken to satisfy the customers in quality, prompt consideration of their desires and reasonable prices. The widest variety in staple and fancy groceries is dealt in by Mr. Naramore and each portion of the stock is carefully selected so that the grade and freshness of the line may be guaranteed.

The best products of well-known packers are shown in canned vegetables and fruits and a large assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables is handled in seasonable quantities. Boxed crackers from the largest manufacturing bakers in the United States are dealt in, and every necessity or luxury for the table in foodstuffs, outside of fresh meats or fish, are shown in this heavily stocked store,

Mr. Naramore has been a resident of Fitchburg for virtually thirty-five years, except that in that period, he spent six and a half years in California. He entered the grocery trade in this city and was employed by some of the best-known dealers of an earlier period. With C. E. Gough he set up in business for himself under the firm name of Naramore & Gough and was located at the corner of Charles and Forest streets for five years.

In November, 1901, he took possession of his present premises, having raised the building which he owned so as to allow a store on the street floor. In the past nine and a half years he has had a growing and increasing trade and is one of the reliable grocers in this city.

Mr. Naramore is a member of the Board of Trade and Merchants' Association, of the Rollstone Church, Men's club, and the A. O. U. W., and is one of Fitchburg's citizens whose efforts are directed for the best interests and welfare of this community.

Putnam St. Alleys

The fact that there are no better bowling alleys or pool rooms in New England than there are in Fitchburg speaks well for the managers of this enterprise, and also gives proof of the excellent patronage that is virtually guaranteed when a business of this nature is properly and expertly conducted.

ago, and were installed and built regardless of cost. The premises were particularly fitted up for them, so that in the surroundings as well as in the particular equipment there is no similar establishment that is more modern or finely furnished in the eastern states.

On the lower floor there are five pool tables and one billiard table. Each one is of the best make and workmanship, is kept in the finest condition, and is fast, smooth, and presents a surface for the best performance of either amateur or professional.

The furnishings of the room are in dark oak, and there is a cleanliness and orderliness about the premises that are proof of the fine class of people who patronize it, and the care that is exercised to have everything in the most up-to-date and attractive condition.

The alleys on the second floor extend over the adjoining market as well as the pool room, and eight alleys of regulation size with hard and polished surface are maintained, and are thoroughly managed.

All the schedules of club leagues are played off here, and there have been some sharp and keen contests in the past four winters. The competitions are fair as well as exciting, and the sport has developed a lot of enthusiasts who enjoy the exercise they get from it, and like the attractive surroundings.

The business has been under the proprietorship of J. Raymond Dwyer for the past eight years, and Andrew Hawthorne has been the manager for that same period. Mr. Hawthorne has shown an impartial courtesy to all patrons of the establishment, has given the best service possible, and has been

The efforts of Mr. Dwyer and Mr. Hawthorne are appreciated by the public, and Fitchburg has a natural pride in such a fine establishment, giving due credit to Mr. Dwyer and Mr. Hawthorne, for their enterprise in conducting and developing it to its present high standing.

Selma S. Leeman

business man, but this desire is even more strongly felt when a young woman enters the industrial or professional field. Consequently, it has been most gratifying to the well-wishers of Miss Selma S. Leeman to learn that in a little more than a year she has placed her establishment upon a sound footing, and has become so widely and appreciatively known for her ability in her line, that her patronage is constantly increasing.

Miss Leeman is the proprietor of the Studio at 368 Main street, the oldest in our city, and for many years occupied by Mr. Moulton, the veteran photographer. Miss Leeman, however, bought it oi John Sahlstein, and has been at the head of the enterprise since the first of January, 1910.

All kinds of photographic work are done. The smallest or largest size portraits are finished to order, and the mounting is appropriate and as skilfully done as other parts of the work. Enlargements, colored and tinted pictures, and crayons ' or oil colors are also made.

The studio is one of the best equipped in this city. The light is unusually good, and the reception, operating and dressing rooms are all most convenient for their particular uses.

Miss Leeman is a young woman of unusual ambition and enterprise, and has equipped herself in a comparatively short time in the artistic and commercial parts of this business. She is a native of Finland but studied in this country and was employed as a compositor in this city, Boston and Quincy.

She has made an undoubted success of her present venture. Those who admire pluck and enterprise take pride In her progress, - and with closer friends and patrons wish her an even more prosperous and hopeful future.

The Palms

Most people are willing to give credit where credit is due, and as Fitchburg has its usual quota of fairminded persons, the agreement has been reached whereby The Palms is not only admitted to be one of the finest restaurants in Worcester county but that J. Raymond Dwyer showed an unusual amount of enterprise in founding it and successfully conducting it up-to-date.

The Palms has its entrance at 33 Day street, and the place is attractive to the best sort of patronage, and the arrangements and service are for this class of trade.

The Palms was opened in March, 1910, and disclosed an interior where palms were appropriately placed, and the atmosphere was suggestive of foliage, a green-grained oak wood being used for panels, tables, chairs, counters, etc. Mouldings along the wall offer places for picturesque steins, mugs, and plates, and its rathskeller appearance makes it a particular innovation for this city.

Eight tables are kept on the floor, though the dining room would accommodate seventy-five people if necessary. The kitchen is one of the most modernly equipped in this section, and two of the most skilled chefs in this state are employed.

The refrigerator in the basement is one of the largest in the city, and the meats, fish, and vegetables kept on hand would be sufficient to stock many retail stores. However, few stores carry so constantly such a high-grade quality of eatables. The menu offered here is as varied as presented in the largest cities, and is cooked, seasoned, and served by some of the ablest and most experienced people in this line of business.

A business men's lunch for thirtyfive cents is one of the popular institutions of The Palms, and for oysters, a broiled live, a tender chicken or a first-class steak, thfjre is really no other place to go.

Mr. Dwyer, the proprietor. Is the owner of the Putnam street bowling alleys, is also the owner of several horses that have ma le good marks, and has always been a promoter of athletic events and clean sports.

Star Worsted Co

In a city the size of Fitchburg one would be quite sure that all branches of business would be completely represented, yet it is a fact that one of the last enterprises to be established in any community is that of the florist. Of course one finds offices or stores where cut flowers may be purchased or orders left for designs or decorations, but there are many such dealers who have no resources of their own and depend upon some larger city or wholesalers for their stock. Happily this is not true in this city, and the florist shop of W. H. Ritter, 70 Main street, was not established until two years after his hothouses had been occupied, so that in his case the position was the reverse of the dealer who starts in with a few cut blossoms and eventually becomes a grower.

The convenience of dealing with a florist who has his own greenhouses is, of course, apparent. There is no waiting for the filling of any order, - there is no doubt of what can be had at the moment of inquiry, and, of course, there is a wider selection than as if there were only a store stock with no producing department back of it.

The greenhouses of Mr. Ritter on Westminster hill road. West Fitchburg, comprise 10,000 square feet of glass, and the hot-house in proximity to his home on Gardner road is covered by 2000 square feet of glass, making one of the largest plants of this kind in this section of the county.

Practically all the blossoms called for are raised here, except roses, carnations in many hues and from many stalks are raised, violets, chrysanthemums and other popular blossoms, hardy plants and green stuffs, so this concern is prompt in filling any sort of orders, and is called upon for some of the largest decorative jobs done in this city.