Lorain City (part 7 of 77)

j\Ir. Ely visited Columbus in the winter of 1821-2, for the purpose of securing an act for the organization of the county of Lorain. He traveled on horse- back, and the first day out he became lost in the woods. He succeeded iii finding his way back to liis lionio at night, and the next day was more successful in finding his way, and finally reached tlie State capital. The new county was not formed at that session of the (reueral Assembly, but on the 22d of December, 1832, an act was passed for its formation. It was taken from the counties of Cuyahoga, Huron and Medina, and was named Lorain. It took its name from Lorraine in France, in whieli province Mr. Ely spent some time while in Europe, and with which he was greatly pleased. It will be observed that the name is somewhat anglicised. It originally embraced the townships of Homer and Spencer now in Medina, and Sullivan and Troy now in Ashland county. At the same session a board of three commissioners was appointed to locate the county seat. Black River and Sheffield were competitors with Elyria, and tlie commissioners visited both of those townships; but, after a fair consideration of their claims, fixed upon Elyria as the seat of justice for the new county, and on the 14th of February, 1833, drove the stakes for the location of the new court house. It was located at the north east corner of Middle avenue and Broad street, and occupied the ground where J. A. Bean's grocery store now stands. Mr. Ely agreed to furnish buildings for the court house and jail, and to pay two thousand dollars towards the erection of a new court house wlienever the county commissionei'S should see fit to build one.

After the erection of the new court house, the original building was removed to a lot fronting Broad street, and was used for a time as a school house and afterwards as a Presbyterian church. It now stands in the rear of Snearer and Waldeck's cabinet shop. Tlie jail was erected on what is now the South public square, nearly opposite the i)resent residence of N. L. Johnson. It was a two-story frame building, the inside of one end lined with s(iuare-iiewn legs, which was used as a prison. The other end was used by tlie family of the jailor. It answered its purpose very well, few if any prisoners having escaped from it. It now stands on East Third street, and is owned and occupied as a dwelling by R. W. Pomeroy.

Some of the townships in Lorain county were quite raj)idly settled after the first improvements. Sucli was not the case with Elyria. Its population is not remembered, but the following list shows the houses and their occupants at the above date. Commencing at the east end of Broad street the first house stood nearly opposite the old tannery, and was occupied by a Mr. Cuues. The second house was occupied by Mr. (iardner Howe, a tanner. Third, Heman Ely's residence, now occupied by his son Heman. Fourth, the old tavern of Mr. Beebe, standing nearly opposite Mr. Ely's. Fifth, the residence of Mr. Edmund West, now owned and occupied by Albert Ely. Sixth, residence of Deacon Luther Lane, now owned by Mr.

Budd. Seventh, the residence of Mr. Kingsbury, now owned and occupied by Mr. Coburu. Eighth, George Gilbert, a blacksmith. Ninth, residence of Dr. John F. Butler, corner of Broad street and Middle avenue. Tenth, residence of Hiram Emmons. Eleventh, residence of Thompson Miles. Twelfth, residence (name not remembered) on ground afterwards occupied by residence of Samuel Goodwin. Thirteenth, residence of Halstead Parker. Fourteenth, fifteenth, sixteenth and seventeenth, occupants not remembered. -Eighteenth, occupied by Roger Cooley. Nineteenth, resident not known. Twentieth, residence of Francis Douglas. Twenty-first, residence of Ebenezer Wliiton. Twenty-second, resdence of James Porter. Twenty-third, now occupied by W. H. Park, built by Ransom Redington, at that time unfinished.

A number of persons whose names have not been mentioned settled in Elyria prior to 1825. William Turner, Jr., whose father came to Grafton in 1816, was apprenticed to George Douglas, to learn the house joiner and carpenter's trade, in 1823. He married Miss Olive M. Lynde, in 183-4, and became a permanent resident. By a life of industry he has accumulated a competence, and is now living at the age of seventy-five, respected by the community. His wife, aged seventy-three, is also living. Hiram Emmons came from Connecticut in 1831. He died in 1 865 aged seventy-two. He was an honest man and a good citizen.

Stanton Sholes was one of the early merchants of Elyria. He sold out to Thompson Miles, who succeeded him both as a merchant and resident in 1834, and removed to a pleasant home in Amherst. Cajjl. Sholes afterwards removed to the vicinity of Columbus, where he died recently, aged over ninet}' years. He commanded a company in the war of 1813, and did good service for his counti-y. Mr. Miles having secured a competence, retired from business in 1833. He died in September, 1845, aged fifty-five 3'ears, leaving a highly respectable family.

Ezra S. Adams, from Canton, Conn., settled in Elyria in 1831, and established the first harness and saddlery shop in the county. He kept the hotel built by George Douglas for a time, and was a partner of Mr. A. Beebe, in establishing the first line of stage coaches between Cleveland and Sandusky, (now Fremont.) He afterwards carried on the business of harness making for many years. He died January 33, 1847, aged forty-six years.

A young man who, with good hahits and energ_v, says, " This will I do," rarely fails. William H. Tucker is a living illustration of this fact. He was born in Windham, Portage Co., Ohio, March 21, 1826, the youngest son of Jacob and Chloe Tucker. Jacob first settled in Ohio, at Vermillion, in 1816. In 1818 he moved into Windham, as above, from which place he removed to Eaton, Lorain Co , Ohio, in 1832, purchasing a farm on Chestnut Ridge.

Here with his wife he remained until their respective deaths ; Mr. Tucker dying in 1863, in his eighty-eighth year ; his wife having died two years previous.

From the mother did W. H. Tucker get the notions which, worked out, have made the valuable citizen. Mrs. Chloe Tucker was a woman of uncommon energy ; the great motherly heart of a good woman, by precept and example, left an impress on the character of her children that to this day recalls the memory of a mother who ever watched over them with self-sacrificing devotion, and aided them to become the true man or true woman.

The father, of a difl'erent mental mould, ever kind, no matter how gloomy the outlook, was ever cheerful ; always thinking " Suflicient unto the day is tlie evil thereof."

Mr. W. H. Tucker, well remembering the exodus from Portage to Lorain County, recalls the pa.ssage of Cuyahoga River, at Cleveland, Ohio, on a floating bridge, the all of his parents in a lumber wagon drawn by a yoke of oxen, those parents to work out of the then woods of Eaton a home for selves and little ones. Such a home, poor as it was, was even then made so pleasant that one and all of those children look back to it with fond memories.

Early life in Lorain County gave limited opportunities for education. At the age of sixteen Mr. Tucker began to think for a better education than home schools provided. In his seventeenth year his father gave him all he could, viz., his time. With this and a fixed determination he commenced the business of education, chopping cord- wood for tuition, and doing chores for board. He was a pupil at a select school at Ridgeville, Ohio. The following winter found him teacher of the common school at Lagrange, Ohio. In the following July, to acquire further funds for schooling, he commenced work with a traveling threshing-machine. A week's work left him with only one leg, and even life in danger. Good early habits and a sound constitution pulled him through so far as the playsical was concerned ; but, as he looked to the future, "black care brooded o'er his mind." Fearing he should become a burden to his friends, he almost wished for death. However, will-power and kind attention offender friends drove such thoughts away, and left him with a fixed purpose. Engaging in school teaching for the following twenty-two years, Mr. Tucker taught every winter, frequently fall and summer terms, in the common schools of Ohio; now and then a select school. All this time as teacher he was everywhere a learner.

In the year 1864, Mr. Tucker removed to Elyria, Ohio, where he now lives. He was married in his twenty-third year to Miss Clarissa Andrews, who as kind wife, with joyous and sunny disposition, cheered his life until her death, which occurred at Elyria, Jan. 20, 1870. She left three sons, the youngest but eight days old, her only daughter having died before, aged two years.

He was remarried, March 13, 1871, to Mrs. M. C. Hart, widow of Hermon Hart, of Grafton, Lorain Co., Ohio, who now with every womanly grace makes home pleasant to husband and their manj' friends.

Mr. Tucker was elected recorder of Lorain Co., Ohio, in 1864, filling the position, by two re-elections, for nine years. Retiring from olfice with health somewhat impaired by close confinement and strict attention to official duties, for a short time he engaged in sundry business occupations. Having, during his recordership, reviewed his law studies under the instruction of Judge John C. Hale (which studies were originally made under Judge W. W. Boynton), he was admitted to the bar, at a sitting of the District Court, at Cleveland, Ohio.

In 1875, Mr. Tucker was a prominent mover in the organization of a lodge of Knights of Honor at Elyria, and was chosen past dictator of said lodge. In 1876 he represented said lodge in grand council, and has ever since been a member of that body, now being grand trustee.

In February, 1878, as charter member, he helped the formation of a council of Royal Arcanums at Elyria, of which he was elected past regent. He now fills the office of grand secretary of the grand council of said order for the State of Ohio.

Elected by his fellow-citizens as justice of the peace; a member of the law firm of Fary & Tucker ; with an oflicial reputation as recorder of Lorain Count}' unequaled either by successor or predecessor ; with the trusts of a grand officer in his hands ; his ever charitable hand; his undeviating life of integrity in all its meaning ; the universal respect of all with whom he comes in contact, Mr. Tucker can be well said to have grandly done his " This will I do."

William Webster was born in West Hartford, Conn., Oct. 20, 1778, and moved to Laporte, Lorain Co., Ohio, May 15, 1828, from the town of Spaiford, Onondaga Co., N. Y. His son William was born at Florence, Oneida Co., N. Y., Feb. 20, 1809.

The occupation of both father and son was that of blacksmithing. William, the father of the subject of this sketch, worked at his trade in Elyria, in company with George G. Gilbert, from 1831 to 1834. His wife was born July 3, 1813, and was the daughter of Henry J. Fhillips. They were married Oct. 27, 1831, in Eaton, Lorain Co., Ohio. Mrs. Webster died Nov. 13, 1868, leaving six children, viz. : Daniel, Edward, Cordelia, (wife of Dr. L. C. Kelsey, of Elyria, Ohio), Iral A., Fred, and Will.

Iral A. Webster was born on Butternut llidge, Eaton township, Lorain Co., Ohio, Dec 22, 1840. In Iral's youth his parents moved to the State of Illinois, lleturniug from the West, for a short time Cleveland, Ohio, was their home; and in 1848, Carlisle, Lorain Co., Ohio, became his father's residence, where he still lives.

Iral A. Webster's early days were spent on the home farm, in the blacksmith-shop, or in a quarry belonging to his father, except such time as was given to the district school, until 1861. During this year he attended a select school at Elyria, Ohio. In 1862 he commenced studies at Oberlin, Ohio, where some time was spent until the spring of 1866; the balance was pa.s.sed in teaching school at Lagrange and Amherst, Lorain Co., Ohio, and in reading law^with J. D. Horton, of Ravenna, Ohio. Continuing his reading, with C. W. Johnston, Esq., of Elyria, he was, in said place, admitted to the bar Aug. 29, 1867. In December, 1867, he opened a law office at Oberlin, Ohio, where his family still resides, although Mr. Webster's time is mostly passed in Elyria, where he started a branch office, August, 1877. He formed a copartnership with Charles G. Finney, Jr., in February, 1872, which lasted but a few months, owing to the ill health of his partner. Jan. 1, 1877, saw his uncle, H. L. Webster, in the law business with him, which relation continued for one year, when Mr. Webster formed a partnership with his brother Fred, which still continues.

In December, 1877, Mr. I. A. Webster purchased onehalf of the Oberlin Weehly News, and continued one of its owners and publishers until Jan. 1, 1879, his efforts having aided in a great degree in placing it upon a sound foundation.

On Nov. 25, 1868, Mr. Webster married Miss Lottie Robb, daughter of Jackson and Mary Robb. Of this marriage were born Albert M., Feb. 13, 1875; Angle L., April 8, 1877.

Mr. Webster is yet young, a man of high moral standing, and an ardent supporter of every movement looking towards the right. He is a prominent member of the Republican party. Sharing the confidence and good will of all, he enjoys that true respect of his fellows that only follows a life of strict integrity.

Zenas Banuim built a forge on the west side of the river, wliere Gates' saw-mill was afterwards built in 1818, and carried on the business of manufacturing wrought iron until 1832. He then removed to Rockport, where he died manj' years ago.

Elias Mann came to Elyriain 1819. He married a daughter of Major David Beebe, of Ridgeville and removed to Amherst, where he lived to a good old age.

Elyria Village Incorporated In 18.33

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, That all that part of the township of Elyria, in the county of Lorain, which is included within the branches of Black river, be and the same is hereby created a town corporate, and shall hereafter be known and distinguished by the name of the Town of Elyria. The above was passed February 2.3, 18:!3. Signed,

We are unable to find the record of elections i)rior to April 6, 1843. At this date an election was held and the following gentlemen were chosen, viz: Orren Cowles, mayor; Benjamin F. Robinson, recorder; Archibald S. Park, Thompson Miles, Israel Everden, Ansel Keith, and T. Crane, trustees; and Samuel Goodwin, treasurer. 1843: Nahum B. Gates, mayor; Austin C. Penfleld, recorder; Herrick Parker, T. Crane, I. Everden, Orville L. Mason and William Olcott, trustees; treasurer re-elected. 1844: Oliver R. Ryder, mayor; I. Everden, 0. L. Mason, C. S. Goodwin, and Norman Crandall, trustees; recorder re-elected; Horace C, Starr, treasurer. 1845: officers re-elected entire. 1846: Albert A. Bliss, mayor; 0. L. Mason, 0. Cowles, T. Crane, N. B. Gates and William Olcott, trustees; recorder and treasurer reelected. 1847: Hemau Ely, Jr., mayor; M.R.Keith, recorder, B. F. Robinson, W. F. Lockwood, A. Woostor, A. Culver and Milo Bennett, trustees; H. C. Starr, treasurer. We pass to a recent date. 1876: John H. Boynton, mayor; John Childs, George H. Ely, E. G. Johnson and Charles Spitzenburg, trustees. 1877: N. B. Gates, mayor; council, John Childs, George 11. Ely, E. G. Johnson, Charles Spitzenburg, William Allen and George R. Starr. 1878: N. B. Gates, mayor; council same as before, adding John W. Hart and D. J. Nye.

In making out the foregoing list of officers we have co])ied from the records as kept by the recorder, hence we are not responsible for the omission of first names.

Soon after the commencement of the settlement, Mr. Ely saw the necessity of having bridges across both branches of the river, and contracted with Maj. Calvin Hoadley to build them. They were completed in the fall of 1818. Their location was substantially on the sites of the present stone and iron bridges.

tions. This stood on the east side of the east branch of the river, near the spring in the rear of the sand pits. Enos Mann and others afterwards carried on this distillery. Long years since it went into decay and now not a vestige of it remains.

At a very early date, a carding and fulling mill was in operation. It was located on the site of Messrs. Topliff and Ely's extensive manufactory. Gardner Howe at first carried it on, who was succeeded by John L. Butler, and he, in turn, by Herrick Parker. The spinning wheel and hand-loom having become things of the past, Mr. Parker converted it into a woolen manufactory, but does not seem to have been successful, as the work was abandoned some twenty years ago.

The grist and saw mills, built by Mr. Ely at the time of the first settlement, near the east branch bridge, have been succeeded by others, with more modern improvements, which are still in oijeration.

The old red mill at the east falls was built by Mr. Ely, as early as 1834. In February, 1832, there was a great freshet, caused by heavy rains, which caused the breaking up of the ice. It swept away every mill dam above Elyria, gathering force at each, and came down almost like a wall of waters, bearing along large trees, which had been torn up by the roots. Nearly half of the red mill standing over the water was swept away, and all of the running gear, including the mill stones, and made a complete wreck of the lower portion of the mill. That part of'the building next the water, settled a foot or more, and the whole structure came near falling into the stream. It was soon repaired, and has, until recently, done a large business, both as a custom and merchants' mill. It is not now in operation.

The Lorain Iron Company was established in 1832, on the west side of the river, near the west falls. Ileman Ely furnished the capital, aud built the necessary works. It was, at one time, an extensive affair, employing one hundred, or more, men. It was not a success, financially, and was eventually abandoned. Its failure was probably due to the fact that it used bog ore, which was not vei-y rich in iron. Had the iron mines of Lake Sui^erior been then known, it would doubtless have been in operation at the present time.

Below the "old red mill," was a second one, which was burned down, aud between the two, a gentleman named Clark, put in operation an axe manufactory. Tills business was carried on for a number of years, and turned out a very good class of work. This has, long since, ceased to be. Mr. N. B. Gates, for many j^ears, run a saw-mill, and carried on a sash aud blind manufactory, on the west branch, above the falls. As timber became scarce, it was abandoned, not being profitable.

Eltkia Natural History Society

block, furni.slic'd eacli side of it with glass cases, for the reception of sjiecitnens - a platform and desk occupying the front of the room. It was also supplied with seats, to accomodate about three hundred persons. The glass cases were generally filled with choice specimens, illustrating geology, mineralogy, eonchology, ornithology, and botany. Many Indian relies were also collected, together with a small library. In this room, weekly public free lectures were given for about four years, except during the month of August. The lecturers were mostly residents of Elyria, among whom were Di's. N. R. Townshend, Eber W. Hubbard, and L. I). Griswold; Joel Tiffany, A. A. Bliss, P. Bliss, and Woolsey Wells, attorneys; Rev. D. A. Grosvenor; and H. A. Tenney, editor, and others, not recollected. The lecturers were all volunteers, and performed their duties without compensation. During the existence of the association, several distinguished scientists from abroad were eniploj-ed, who delivered coui'ses of lectures upon chemistry and geology. For nearly four years, the hall was filled, weekly, by the young and middle-aged citizens of Elyria, who were constant attendants upon the lectures. No one can projierly estimate the influence for good, especially upon the 3'oung peojde of our village, resulting from these lectures. Elyria has ever been celebrated for the literary and scientific culture of its inhabitants, and it is believed that, its reputation is, to a great extent, due to the influence of this society.

After about four years of prosperity, several gentlemen, who had been prominent in conducting its afi'airs, removed from town, the regular lectures were discontinued, and it gradually fell into decay. In 1852, a fire consumed the block and what .specimens remained in the room.

Churches In Elyria

Was organized in the log school house east of the river, on Thursday, the 2.5th of November, 1824. There were jiresent on the occasion. Rev. Alfred II. Betts, a minister of the Presliytery of Huron, and tlie Revs. Daniel W. Lathrop, Joseph Treat, and Caleb Pitkin, of tlie Missionary Society of Connecticut.

The following jwrsons presented themselves for examination, viz: Luther Lane, Celia P]ly and Pamelia Beebe, from the First church in West Springfield, Massachusetts; Abbe W. Lathrop, from the First Presbyterian church in Brooklyn, Long Island; William Smith, from the church in Sheffield; Samuel Brooks, Hezekiah Brooks, Lydia Brooks, Sophia Brooks, Hannah Brooks, Hannah Johnson and Irene Johnson, of the Presbyterian church in Carlisle; and Harriet Hamlin, Julia West, Pearly Douglas, Ann Palmer and Pamelia Jlanter, who had never before made a public jirofession of religion.

The building, occupied exclusively ns a clnrrch, stood on the northeast corner of of the public sipiare, and is the same now occupied by Snearer & Waldeck as a cabinet shop.

In 18.34, a wooden church edifice was erected on lot No. 247 East Second street. This w-as completed, and on February 12, of the same year, was dedicated to the service of Almighty God. On the same day, the Rev. James II. Eells was oixlained jjastor of the church. This building is now owned by Mrs. Sarah W., widow of the Rev. I). A. Grosvenor, and is occupied as a dwelling.

The massive and beautiful stone church on the corner of Second and Court streets was comjileted in the spring of 1848, and dedicated iSIay 17, of that year, at a total cost of twelve thousand five hundred and eighty-eight dollars and sixt3--five cents. The clock which occujiies the tower of this church was put up some years later, and cost three hundred dollars; the bell, six hundred dollars, and the fine organ, fourteen hundred dollars. A neat stone chapel was erected just south of the church in 1853.

Committee on Missionarji, Snnday School and Bible Society Collections - Elijah DeWitt, Heman Ely, E. W. West, Joseph Swift, Jr., and I. S. Metcalf.

Officers of the Society - Nahum B. Gates, president; I. S. Metcalf, seen' tary and treasurer. Trustees - Hemau Ely, Artemas Beebe, Thomas L. Nelson, John W. Hulburt and Joseph Swift, Jr.

In the Sabbath school, the total enrollment is six hundred and twenty-five; average attendance, three hundred and seventy-five. There are also sustained by the church six mission schools, with an attendance of from thirty to sixty each.

Methodist Episcopal Church

The following brief sketch of this religious society is prepared from data furnished by Clark Eldred and Mrs. W. 0. Cahoou. Occasional services were held in Elyria, at the houses of the settlers, by preachers of this faith, soon after the settlement, prior to 1820.

is:j2, William Rnnnels and George Elliot; 18:5;3, William Runnels and J. Kiimear; 1834, A. Billings and A. A. Brewster; 18:S5, A. Billings and J. Wilkinson; 18:30, J, Wheeler and T. BarkduU; 18:37, S. M. Allen and J. Hudson; 1838, John M. Goshom; 18:39, James Brewster; 1840, Joseph Jones and John Brakefield; 1841, Cyrus Sawyer and S. B. Guyberson; 1842, E. C. Gavitt and Peter Sharp.

In Jlay, 1834, a class was formed, comjiosed of the following persons: Hiram Emmons (who was first class leader) and wife, C^lark Eldred and wife, George H. Gilbert and wife, Heber G. Sekins and wife, Sally Gilbert, and some others whose names cannot be ascertained. Soon after the year 1834, a church edifice was erected by this class and outside friends. It was a comfortable wooden structure, and stood near the site of the present Methodist Ejiiscopal church.

The i)resent brick church was erected in 1850, at a cost of five thousand dollars. The society is now taking measures to build a new and more commodious church edifice.

The old church building was converted into a dwelling house, and is occupied by Clayton Johnson. It has been so modernized and imj)roved m its architecture that no person would recognize it.

A lot for a parsonage was purchased in 1831, and soon after a house was put up for the use of the pastor. The parsonage trustees, at that time, were: Lewis Ely, George G. Gilbert, Hiram Emmons, William Peters, Henry B. Tenis, Jonah Bradley, Clark Eldred, Charles Abljcy and Jabez Hamlin. The first 1 parsonage has since been sold, and a new and better ' one erected.

St. Andrew'S Church

The Protestant Epi.scopal Church in Elyria was organized in 1837 under the superintendence of the Kev. Anson Clark, missionary, with the aid of tlie missionary committee of the diocese of Ohio.

The following are the names of those who first signed tlie articles of association: Orrin Cowles, Jane C. Cowles, M. Augustus Cowles, E. H. Leonard, Sarah W. Leonard, Drake Andrews, Lucy Andrews, Cbaiincey Prindle, Nancy Prindle, Aaron Andrews, Eunice W. Andrews, Maria Prindle,.Julia Vaudeberg, Caroline Leonard, L. D. Griswold, Jerusha H. Griswold, Caroline Byington, Ruth Minot, Perley Blakesley, Mary Blakesley, William Babbitt, and Mary Babljitt.

The first meeting of the parish was held at the house of Orrin Cowles, Rev. Anson Clark, presiding, and Eliiihalet H. Leonard, seci-etary. At this meeting the name, style and title of St. Andrew's Church was adojitcd, and the following jiersons elected wardens and vestrymen: Drake Andrews, senior warden; Orrin Cowles. junior warden; vestrymen, Chauncey Prindle, E. li. Leonard, and L. D. Griswold.

In the summer of 1839, Rev. Mr. Clark resigned the charge, and during the next year the first church edifice was erected at a cost of one thousand five hundred dollars.

In 1841, Rev. Hugh Kelley was called to the charge of the parish, and resigning in 1843, was followed by the Rev. George S. Davis who remained until 1845. From this time for a series of years the church was without a settled rector. In conserpience of this and the death and removal of several leading members the church gradually declined.

In May, 1851, the first rector, Rev. Anson Clark, was recalled, and found but little remaining except tlie churcli edifice, but a congregati(m was soon collected, and among these were fifteen communicants.

In October, 1853, Mr. Clark resigned, leaving twenty-six communicants who worked faithfully and earnestly in the church for its jiermanent growth. After a short interval the Rev. Francis Granger became rector, and continued as such until Easter, 1857. In May following, the Rev. B. T. Noakes assumed charge and remained until May 1, 1860, when he resigned on account of failing health. During the time he was rector the church edifice was greatly enlarged; a parsonage built; sixty-four per.sons added to the church, and forty confirmed. In June, 1860, the Rev. Richard L. Chittenden assumed charge of the parish, remaining until December, 18G3, when he left to accept a commission as chajilain of the forty-third regiment Ohio Tolunteer infantry, then in Tennessee. In February, 1864, he resigned his rectorship. During the interval of his absence the Rev. William C. French, of Oberlin, held afternoon services for a period of some ten mouths, and visiting clergymen occasionally supplied the pulpit until July, 1865. In August, 1865, Rev. Mr. Chittenden resumed charge, but in consequence of failing health, resigned in June, 1868. In July, of that year, Rev. S. A. Brousou, i)rofessor ill the Diocesan Tlicologieal Seminary took charge, temporarily, of the parish, and continued until Easter, 1869, wlien the Rev. R. L. Chittenden assumed charge and remained until Easter, 1870. He was succeeded in June following hy the Rev. B. T. Noakes, who remained until February, 1876. During his rectorate the present beautiful cliurch edifice was erected and informally dedicated on the nineteenth Sunday after Trinity, 1873. It was afterwards consecrated by Bishop Gillespie of the Diocese of Western Michigan, in the absence from the country of the Bisliop of the Diocese, in July, 1875. It cost thirteen thousand dollars. The organ was made by Hook & Hastings, of Boston, Mass., and cost one thousand six liuudred dollars.

After the resignation of Rev. B. T. Noakes the Rev. John Coleman officiated during the months of March and April, 1876. The Rev. William Hyde became rector May 1, 1876, and resigned June 1, 1877. The present rector, Rev. Arthur M. Backus, entered upon his duties July 1, 1877.

Baptist Church

In the latter part of June, 183G, tlie Rev. Daniel C. Waite, who had but recently graduated at Hamilton, N. Y., came west in search of a field for gospel labor. Arriving at Cleveland, Ohio, he was, on consultation with the Rev. Levi Tucker, directed to Elyria, where he held the first meeting in July following. This was in the court house, and after a few meetings held there, they were transferred to the old yellow school house, then standing on the west side of the public square. On the 26th of November ensuing, the following persons united in constituting the First Baptist Church in Elyria: Daniel 0. Waite, pastor; Luther Hartson, sen., Lutlier Hartson, jr., Mrs. Mercy Brooks, Miss Margaret Wright, Lucius and Sally Andress - seven in all. Mr. Waite continued as pastor until January, 1837. Prom that time until the following September there was no settled pastor, but occasional preaching. Rev. Mr. Hillis, the next pastor, assumed the pastorate in September.

The first sabbath in January, 1838, was tlie commencement of a series of meetings which resulted in a general awakening and an addition of twenty-six to the church. At the close of these meetings measures were put in operation for the building of a church edifice, which was completed perhaps one and a half years later. Rev. Mr. Hillis resigned from physical infirmities in June, 1838, and the Rev. Silas Tucker succeeded him. He remained until November, 1840, when he resigned. Rev. Josepli Elliot, of Pontiac, Mich., followed him. He commenced his labors the February following, and continued for three years. These were the most prosperous of any equal period in the history of the church as far as increase of membership is concerned. In Noveml)er, 1842, the Rev. Elijah Weaver, an evangelist, of Wall Lake, Mich., assisted in a series of meetings wliieh continued four weeks.

From June, 1842, to June, 1843, one hundred and ten members were added to tlie church. Tlie entire list of pastors after Mr. Elliot, who served three years, is as follows: H. Silliman, D. Bernard, D. Eldridge, N. S. Burton, L. Ramstead, A. Heath, Rev. Mr. Hayhurst, George E. Leonard, H. H. Bawden, M. L. Bickford and Rev. W. A. Depew, who has recently resigned his pastorate. He assumed charge in JMarch, 1877. The present mcmljcrshiii is one hundred and fifty; enrollment in Sabbath school, one hundred and twenty-five. Miss L. S. Carter is suiierinteiident of the Sabbath school.

Tlie officers of the churcli are Henry E. Mussey, T. W. Laundon, Cyrus Wheeler, Thomas Biggs and J. W. Rockwell, trustees; Thomas Biggs, and ,T. W. Rockwell, deacons; Amos Maxted, clerk.

The entire property of the church, including tlie church edifice, parsonage, organ, etc., is valued at thirteen tliousand five hundred dollars.

German Evangelical Lutheran Church

The congregation was organized 1 efore the cliurch was built, under the ministry of the Rev. H. W. Lothmann, and services were held in the Presbyterian chapel, court house, and other places. Present membership, eighty to ninety families. Connected with the church is a parochial school, numbering eighty pupils. Tliis is taught by the pastor, Rev. J. A. Schmidt.

The trustees of this church, consisting of Henry Fowle, president; Paul Krause, secretary; and Gotlieb Mobeus, treasurer, on the 16th day of October, 1871, purchased of the vestry of St. Andrew's Church the building and lot then occupied by the latter named body, paying therefor the sum of two thousand, two hundred and fifty dollars.

Rev. Mr. Deering was the minister of this pai'ish from Octoljcr, 1871 to July, 1873; Rev. Mr. Waltberger from July, 1872, to January 1873; Rev. Mr. Deering from January, 1873, to May 26, 1873; Rev. Mr. Rein from May 26, 1873, to November, 1873; Rev. Mr. Sehelloha from November, 1873, to October, 1875; Rev. Mr. Seybold from October, 1875, to September, 1877; Rev. Mr. Schattle from September, 1877, to September, 1878. Rev. Mr. Sputhnlf took charge September, 1878, and is the present minister of the parish.

This church was formed in 1833. Among the early preachers of the denomination were Sidney Rigdon, Rev. Mr. Clapp, William Hayden, and Rev's Messrs. Green, Moody, and Jones. It, at one time, embraced forty members, among whom were Dr. John F. Butler, H. Redington, Asahel Parmely, Herrick Parker, and others. Many of the members removed to other localities, some died, and the church, many years ago, ceased its labors.

Roman Catholic Church

We are unable to obtain any authentic history of this church. It was established in 1852. Its first priest was Father Haley. It iiurchased a lot on which is erected a large wooden church building, which has a seating capacity of five hundred. It is always filled when there are services. It has also, on the same lot, on Middle avenue, a fine i)arsonage. It also purchased a large lot on the east side of the avenue, on which is a school house, and a fine site for a new church, which will soon be erected. The school numbers one hundred pupils. Father Louis L. Melon is the present firiest. He discourses both in the English and German languages.

History Op Elyria Public Schools

The early settlers of Elyria, Mr. Heman Ely and his associates, were from the State of Massachusetts, and brought with them to this western wilderness, the idea, which was then, and ever has been held, throughout New England, that a good common school education is necessary to prepare boys and girls for citizenship in a republic. Their descendants, and others who have selected this beautiful place for a residence, have maintained the same opinion, and the present eificient system of graded schools, may be considered as the outgrowth of the sentiment of the early settlers.

Mr. Ely, and a few others, came here in 1817. As soon as tliere were pupils enough to organize a school, Mr. Ely built a log house on the east side of the east branch of the river, on the corner of East Bridge street and the street leading to the cemetery. This l)uilding was erected in the fall of 1819. Miss Irene Allen, afterwards wife of Roger Cooley, taught the first school in the log house. The summer of 1820, Miss Julia Johnson taught in the same place. Some others who taught there were Dr. Howe, Mrs. Clark Eldred, Mr. Bronson, and perhaps a few others. Miss Pamelia Manter, afterwards Mrs. Ransom Redington, taught an unfinished term in the log house, in the summer of 1824. Among Miss Manter's pupils was a young man nineteen years old. The first day he was in school he committed several lawless acts, for which he was reproved by his teacher. Towards the close of the day, when standing in spelling class, he put his foot out to prevent a small pupil from going above him, on a word ho had misspelled. When told that he must not do so, he said: "What will you do with me? Will you whip me? " Miss Manter immediately I'eplied that she would report him to the trustees of the school, and he would be dismissed. lie gave no farther trouble. No school was taught in the log house after the winter of 1824-35.

The summer of 1825, Miss Manter taught a school in a house in Mr. Miles' garden. The house is still standing in the same place, and is used as a residence. It is the house back of Mr. Monroe's business block, and is near the corner of East avenue and the street at the rear of the railroad depot. She had about fifty l>upils, ranging in age from five to twenty. One l)ui)il 2'ursued the study of history. Other studies taught were such as pupils ordinarily pursue in ungraded schools.

What was known as the " session room " was erected by Mr. Ely in 1823. It stood where the building now stands which Mr. Beau occupies as a grocery, on the corner of Broad and East Court streets. The "session room'' is now occupied by Mr. Snearer as a store room for furniture. After the trustees ceased to use Mr. Miles' house for school purposes, school was taught in the "session room" till the completion of the "yellow school house," which stood where the town hall now is, on the west side of the public square. This building was erected for school pxxrj)oses in the year 1827, and was used for such for a numljer of years. It now stands on the east side of Middle avenue, between Third and Fourth streets, and is occupied by the Catholic parochial school. Mr. Ely donated the land upon which the building was erected, and contributed one hundred and thirtyfive dollars towards its erection, and built the second story at his own expense, with the privilege of using the same in any way which would not injure the school. The remaining expense of the house was met by a tax on the proj^erty of district number one of

Elyria township, except that Mr. Ely's property was exempt on account of his liberal donation toward the enterprise. Tliis was the first school lioiise erected in the district, »ny part of wliose exi)ense was defrayed by a tax upon the property of the district.

From 1837 on till 1850 several private schools were successfully carried on in Elyria. Among these, the one known as the "Elyria High School" should be mentioned in this connection. It was under the management of a board of trustees known as the "Trustees of the Elyria High School." Mr. Ely erected a building on laud at the rear of the Methodist church, between Broad and Second streets, in the year 1831, and leased the building and land to the trustees for a term of years.

Rev. John Monteith was called to take charge of the first school taught in tlie new building. He was assisted by his wife and Miss Mary Eells. The pupils were taught advanced studies as well as the common branches. J. H. Fairchiid, now president of 01)erliu College, and his brotlier, E. H. Fairciiild, now president of Berea College, Kentucky, were wholly, or in part, prepared to enter college at tliis school.

Mr. and Mrs. Branch, Dr. A. B. Bnjwn and wife, Rev. John P. Cowles, afterward professor in Oberlin College, Rev. Mr. Mills and Luther M. Oviatt, successively had the management of the Elyria high school.

After retiring from this school, Mr. Monteith established a school at his own liouse, where Mayor N. B. Gates now lives, where he and his wife taught for several years.

Rev. Mr. Grosvenor established a girls' school in what had been the Presbyterian church. The building now stands on East Third street, and is occupied as a dwelling.

In the spring of 1846 a meeting of the voters of school district number one was called to vote a tax of one thousand dollars, to be used iu building a school house for the use of the common schools of the district. The vote was unfavoraljle. Many of the citizens feeling dissatisfied with the result of the vote, drew up a bill providing for the division of district number one into numbers one and niue. This bill became a law soon after.

In the winter of 18-10-47, meetings were held in districts number one and niue, and each district voted a tax of one thousand dollars for the erection of a school house within its own territory. The following season the stoue school house on the corner of East avenue and Third streets was erected in district number one, and a brick building in the west part of the village in number nine. Public schools are still taught in both these houses.

During these years the sentiment was growing among educators that the public schools of the cities and villages should be greatly improved. Much work was done by a few men to arouse the citizens to the importance of improving their schools. The result of their labors is the law which was enacted February

On the 13th of May, 1850, but a little more than a year after the ]KissHge of the above act, a notice was posted in Elyria calling upon the citizens to assemble at the court house on the 24th of Ma}', to decide by vote whether they would reorganize their schools under the law of 1849. The vote was favorable to reorganization. An election was held on the 8th day of June, 1850, at which the following persons were chosen members of the board of education: For three years, E. DeWitt and 0. Cowles; for two years, M. W. Pond and Tabor Wood; for one year, C. S. Goodwin and P. C. Dolley. i

In October, 1850, Mr. Jason Canfield was called to take charge of the Elyria union schools, which consisted, at that time, of the two primary schools in tlie stone and brick houses which were erected in 1847, in the east and west parts of the village, an intermetliate or secondary school and a high school, both of , which were taught in the "Elyria High School" building before «ientioned in this article.

In Ajiril, 1851, Mr. Canfield was succeeded by Mr. M. J. Oatman, who remained in the schools for more tlian thi'ee years. The scholarshi]^ and exjierience of Mr. Oatman were such as to render him a valuable man in perfecting the organization upon which the ' schools had been started.

In 1853, another department was organized, making three below the high school. This school was taught in the old "session room," which had previously been occupied for church, for a court room, and for schools.

The present high school building, between Middle Mild West avenues, was erected in jiursuauce of a vote of the electors of the union school district, at a meeting held January 2G, 1856, and adjourned to February 9, 1856. The buihliug was commenced in 185G, and was completed in 1857, and first occuj^ied by the high, grammar, and secondary departments, in the winter term of 1858. The old "high school" house and the "session room" were now abandoned to other ixses.

What are now known as the east and west side primary schools of the Elyria union schools, were formerly sub-districts number two and number six of Elyria township. These were assumed by the Elyria school board iu April, 1864.

Seeing the need of more room for the increasing number of pupils, iu 1868 the board erected a twostory wing on the south side of the high school building. In this wing are two rooms. The lower room was first occupied in September, 1868; the upper room was first used in September, 1870.

In 1875, the board erected a school building west of that occupied by the high school, fronting on Sixth street. This house contains four rooms, two of which were occupied in January, 1876, one in October, 1877, and one is still unoccupied.

The truth of the law " that like produces like" is forcibly illustrated in the life of Elizur G. Johnson, the seventh child of Hon. Nathan P. Johnson. He was born at Lagrange, Lorain Co., Nov. 24, 1836.

In those days a boy's life devoid of labor was a remarkable exception. E. G. Johnson's life was not the exception. His work for twenty-one years was on the homestead, except such time as was devoted to school and school teaching. The district school, Oberlin, for a time during the winter months, and an intelligent father were his sources of education.

Arriving at maturity, farm labor, the teaching of school, and other employments occupied him for a time. Then commencing the reading of the law under Mr. L. A. Sheldon, he was admitted to the bar at Columbus, Ohio, making Lagrange his residence. He there remained for several years, practicing his profession ; years more of hard work, study, and mental gain than pecuniary profit. Here, as his father had been before him, was he honored by his fellow-citizens with local offices.

Elected as auditor of Lorain County in 1868, Elyria became his residence. So strict was his attention to duty, and so courteous his treatment of all with whom business brought him into contact, that he was successively re-elected in 1870-1872, and again in 1874.

Leaving the auditor's office with a perfect record, Mr. Johnson again engaged in the practice of law at Elyria, in which and where he still remains, with a large and everincreasing practice.

was always found on the side of justice, temperance, and morality, and proved an efficient and ever active aid to the Republican party, of which he has been a member since its origin.

Holding at the present time, as he has for many years, the office of secretary of the Lorain County Agricultural Society, none have surpassed, and but few equaled him in endeavor, by word and act, to make said society the worthy organization it is.

On Jan. 1, 1859, Miss Lydia D. Gott, of Lagrange (daughter of Peter Gott, an original settler in said township, yet living, over eighty years of age), became Mr. Johnson's wife.

To him in early days of toil and hardship she was a true companion. And now with comforts on every side, a devoted member of the Methodist Church, with a fond mother's eye she watches the growth and education of seven children, ever holding in the mother's heart the memory of the two little ones that death took from her in childhood.

Mr. E. G. Johnson, yet in the vigor of manhood, warm in his friendships, generous to a fault, with private and public character untarnished, now reaps a glorious harvest. True it is, the seed was sown under every difficulty, but he was never discouraged ; and now, with a reputation fitting him for any office that his neighbors and fellow-citizens may call him to, he has well and honestly earned the high rank he takes among Lorain County's best men.

Judge John C. Hale

John C. Hale was born at Oxford, New Hampshire, March 3, 1831. His parents were Aaron and Mary Hale. His mother's maiden name was Kent ; she was a daughter of Thomas Kent. John C. was born and brought up upon his father's farm, where he remained until he was nineteen years of age. During this period he availed himself of such advantages of education as the common schools of that State then provided. Feeling the necessity of something beyond this, he began fitting himself for college. Entering Dartmouth College soon after, he graduated in the class of 1857. At the end of his collegelife he found himself nearly a thousand dollars in debt, all of which he has since paid with interest. Immediately removing to Cleveland, Ohio, he employed himself in teaching in the public schools of that city. In this employment he remained three years, in the mean time studying law with Judge Prentiss.

On the 27th day of December, 1859, he married Miss Carrie A. Sanborn, of Cleveland, Ohio. In July, 1801, he was admitted to the bar, and in October of the same year he removed to Elyria, Ohio, and commenced the practice of the law. Here he soon won a commanding position as a lawyer, and a high place in the confidence of the people. This is evidenced by the fact that in 1863, but two years after he came to Elyria, an entire stranger to the people of Lorain County, he was elected to the ofiBce of prosecuting attorney, which position, by two successive re-elections, he held for six years.

During this time he also held the office of register of bankruptcy, the duties of which he acceptably discharged until the consolidation of districts abolished the office.

In 1873 he was elected to the constitutional convention, and took an active and influential part in the deliberations of that body. In 1876 he was elected judge of the court of Common Pleas, which position he now holds, and tills with distinguished ability.

Judge Hale has always taken an active part in the promotion of every enterprise calculated to advance the public good. As a member of the village council and the board of education of Elyria, he rendered valuable services in behalf of education and economical municipal government.

As a lawyer he had no superior at the Lorain bar, a fact that is attested by his successful and lucrative practice. His clear perception, his candor and strict integrity, gave him earl\' in his practice a strong hold upon the people, and a ccmimanding position in his profes.sion.

As a judge he brings to his assistance a large common sense, tempered by a thorough legal and scholastic education. Just in the vigor of manhood, with mental and physical powers undiminished, deserving and possessing the full confidence of the people, and guided by a strict integrity, his career of usefulness has but just commenced, and he will long hold the liigh position he has fairly won among the foremost men of Lorain ('ountv and the State of Ohio.

Judge Washington W. Boynton

Among the other New England States that sent their hardy sons to mould the early liistory of Lorain County, Maine sent her representative in the Boynton family.

Lewis D. Boynton, father of Judge Boynton, was born in the State of Maine, in August, 1802. Emigrating to Ohio in 1826, he purchased a farm in Russia township, Lorain Co., where and in Elyria he resided until his death, which occurred in September, A.D. 1875.

Washington W. Boynton was born in Russia township, Jan. 27, 1833, and spent his early years upon his father's farm. His father being of limited means, and charged with the support of a large family, did not think it practicable to send young Boynton to college, and he was forced to content himself with such advantages as the common school of his district provided. Adding to this, constant study and close application, maturity found him eminent in scholarship, although no college had added a title to his name. From that time until the present he has been a hard student. For several winters he taught school, in the mean time pursuing the study of the law, which he early chose as his profession. He was for a number of years a member of the Board of School Examiners of Lorain County.

He was admitted to the bar in 1856, and he soon became prominent in his profession, a position which he held until chosen Common Pleas judge. In 1859 he was appointed to fill a vacancy in the office of prosecuting attorney, which office he held for two successive re-elections until the fall of 1863, when, on account of ill health, he resigned. A trip to Minnesota, where he remained during the winter of 1863-64, gave him necessary rest, which, together with the change of climate, greatly improved his health. Returning to Elyria, he again opened a lawoffice, and soon found himself in the midst of an extensive and lucrative practice.

In 1865, Judge Boynton was elected to represent Lorain County in the Legislature for the terra of two years. In 1867 he was the unanimous choice

While a member of the Legislature, Mr. Boynton had the honor and pluck to introduce a resolution proposing an amendment to the constitution of Ohio to strike the word " white" from the clause relating to the election franchise. After a stormy debate in a House largely Republican, the resolution was defeated, lacking a few votes of the necessary two-thirds majority required to submit it to a vote of the people. This debate aroused such a sentiment throughout the State that, in a few weeks after, a similar resolution was introduced into the Senate by Hon. Abner Kellogg, of Ashtabula, and having passed that body, was sent to the House, and after a heated debate finally adopted and the question submitted to the people. The proposition was lost, but it was soon followed by the amendment of the Federal constitution which forever put the question to rest.

In February, 1869, Mr. Boynton was appointed by Governor Hayes a Common Pleas judge of Lorain, Medina, and Summit Counties, on the resignation of Judge Burke. At the ensuing fall election he was elected to fill the vacancy, and two years thereafter was re-elected for the full term. As judge of the Common Pleas Court, Mr. Boynton won a fame as wide as the State, and at once stepped into the front rank of the legal profession of Ohio. In 1876 he was elected judge of the Supreme Court of the State, which position he still holds.

Mr. Boynton is a man whom his friends and fellowcitizens hold in the highest esteem. His record both in public and private life is free from blemish. He has been honored by the people with offices of trust and high responsibility, and in every capacity has proved himself a competent and fearless officer, and an upright and honest man.

As a lawyer, legislator, and jurist he has achieved a success that reflects great credit upon himself and honor upon Lorain County, whose representative he is-

At a meetino; of the board of education held November 17, 1859, a course'of study for all the departments Avas adopted. In the grades below the high school, provision was made for instruction in reading, spelling, writing, drawing, vocal music, arithmetic, geography, grammar, composition, declamation, physiology. United States history, and morals. For the high school a three j'ears' course of study was laid down, and provision was made for a fourth year, which was to be optional. The board tlien declared that pupils completing the full course of four years in the high school should receive a diploma from the jiresident of the board, signed by its members, and also by the superintendent and examining committee.

The first class which graduated from the high school course was that of 1863, consisting of Lydia A. Ball, Beza N. Boynton and Henrietta C. Schaibly. A class had graduated in the year 1861, having completed some of the studies contained in the course before its adoption by the board. This class consisted of Cyrus Y. Durand, Thankful D. Boynton, Frances W. Sanford and Louise Terrell.

At a meeting of the board, held September .3, 1867, the course of study was revised. At the same meeting, a set of rules regulating the board meetings, and specifying the duty of members of board, of superintendent, teachers and pupils, was adopted.

" Public schools are expensive. Tliey cost the young people a great deal of valuable time. They cost teachers and other friends of education a great deal of labor and care. They cost tax-payers a good deal of money. But schools are worth all they cost. No communitj' can afford to do without them. It is cheaper to support schools and churches than penitentiaries and infirmaries. Free public schools are the palladium of liberty. Universal edutration is the surety for the permanency of free institutions. Every good citizen feels a direct interest in the prosperity and efficiency of schools, and should also feel a personal responsibility therefor. Good schools are not only worth what they cost; they are worth understanding and caring for. Tlie best way to know them is to go and see them. Any one may learn more about schools by visiting them a few hours, than by much fault-finding with the teachers and board of education."

The above quotation is made to indicate the sentiment which has pervaded the board of education of the Elyria union schools from their organization to the present time. They have spared neither time nor money necessary to carry on their schools in an efficient manner.

The course of studj- was again revised Ajjril 1"^, 1870, that for the first eight years being the same as in the Cleveland schools. In 1871, the board published a "manual of the course of study, rules and regulations of the Elyria union schools." Since that time, the course of study has undergone some changes to adapt it more fully to the wants of the times. More attention has been paid to the use of language. I Also much more time has been devoted to the acijuisition of a knowledge of the best thoughts of the best authors.

It has been the aim of the board to have the children of Elyria enjoy educational advantages equal to those enjoyed by the children of any other place in Ohio. They have endeavored to secure competent teachers, and to retain them as long as possible.

During the twenty-eight years of the Elyria high school, forty-one different ladies have been connected with it as teachers. Of these, Mrs. W. C. Catlin and Miss L. F. Ingram remained three years. A few of the others remained two years, but most of them for a shorter time. Miss Beza N. Boynton, now Mrs. Peter II. Kaiser, was teacher in the high school four and two- thirds years in the aggregate, but her teaching was at three different times. What has been true of the high school, has been true of the lower grades. The want of permanency in the ])rofessiou of teaching is an injury to the cause. Miss L. E. Smith has been for many years a teacher in some one of the different departments of the .schools of Elyria. Her work deserves honorable mention. No adequate mention can be made of the good she has done in this community.

Since 1863, a class has graduated from a four years' course of study in the high school each year, except 1866 and 1871. The whole number of pupils who have graduated is eighty-eight, with a class of fifteen to graduate in 1879, making one hundred and three.

The advantages flowing from an eflficieut system of schools, in a place like Eryria, are not to be estimated by the number of graduates from the high school. Many young people have taken a portion of the course of study to prepare themselves for admission to higher institutions of learning. Many more have left school after completing half of tiie high school course of study to enter various callings. These have become much more.successful in business and useful as citizens on account of the training received in the last two years of their course. Many pupils have left the lower grades of school to enter upon lives of idleness and crime. But when pupils have spent two years in the high school, they have formed habits of industry and application to their work which they carry with them into their life-work.

Graduates from the Elyria high school are filling positions of responsibility and trust in large manufacturing and business establishments, are practicing successfully the various professions, and are the light and life of many home circles.

Manufacturing Interests

We have already shown the Elyria of "hmg syno." We will now take a turn among its present manufactories. Just below the depot of the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern railway, and connected with this railway by a spur track, stand the extensive brick buildings owned and occui^ied by the Messrs. Topliff & Ely, in the manufacture of special carriage hardware. Tiiese gentlemen, in the year 1805, erected a wooden building near the site of their jyresent manufactory, and investing fifteen thousand dollars, began the making of hubs, spokes, etc. This braiK'h of the business was abandoned in 1874. In the year 1874, they began the manufacture of tubular bow sockets for carriage bows, in a small room on Broad street. The rapidly-increasing business rendered additional room necessary, and in 1873 they completed the first of the brick buildings they now occupy. This was 24x6-4 feet in dimension, and two stories high. In 1874, another small building was added, but these were soon found wholly inadequate to accommodate the business, and in 1877 extensive enlargements were begun, which are Just completed - showing a frontage of three hundred and forty feet, by an average depth of sixty-five feet. They have now invested in the business one hundred thousand dollars. They employ on an average forty workmen, with a monthly payroll of eighteen hundred dollars. The yearly sales aggregate one hundred and fifty thousand dollars. The steel tubular bow socket is the principal article manufactured. It was patented in 1870 by I. N. Topliff, a brother of the senior partner of the present firm. This is the only manufactory of these goods in the world, and they find a market not only in the United States, where they have an immense sale, but in England, France, South America, Australia, etc. These buildmgs have their foundation ui)on the solid rock, which at this point crops out and forms the bank of Black river. The propelling power is derived from the waters of that stream, and from steam as a i-eserve. Their elegant engine is from the manufactory of 0. 11. Brown & Co., at Fitchburg, Mass., and is of one hundred horse power. One hundred and fifty sets of these sockets are made each day, or a complete set for a buggy every fouiminutes.

The Cleveland Screw And Tap Factory

This company was organized and commenced business in Cleveland in October, 1873. On the 23d of October, 1874, the works were shut down, and, as soon as practicable, the machinery was transferred to the commodious brick building, which had been erected in Elyria, this point offering superior facilities in many respects. Tlie citizens of this town contributed liherally towards the erection of the building and to aid the company in other respects. This building is fifty by one hundred and fifty feet in size and four stories high. It is located near the crossing of the L. S. & M. S. and the C, T. V. & W. railroads. The cost of the building was thirty-one thousand dollars; machinery, tools, etc., forty-seven thousand nine hundred and fifty-eight dollars. New articles of incorporation were issued on the 20th of November, 1874. The following officers were elected under the new charter: S. II. Matthews, president; F. B. Iline, vice-president; C. H. Morgan, superintendent; W. F. Hulburt, secretary and treasurer. The above officers, with E. W. Phelps and R. C. DeWitt, constituted the board of directors. The present officers are F. B. Hine, president and treasurer; R. C. DeWitt, vicepresident; M. H. Levagood, secretary and sujierintendent. The average number of hands employed is thirty-three; average monthly pay-roll, twelve hundred dollars; average yearly sales, twenty-eight thousand dollars.

The engine which drives the numerous ingenious machines of this establishment, is of on) hundred and fifty horse power. In addition to the manufactures imi)lied by that name, are set and cup screws, hand and machine taps, cylinder studs, finished and casehardened nuts, etc.

Since the foregoing was written, we regret to add that, owing to losses resulting from many of its customers having gone into bankruptcy, the general depression of the iron interests of the country, and bad management, the company has been compelled to make an assignment. M. H. Levagood, the assignee, still carries on the business. The stockholders will, doubtless, lose their entire stock, and the proj)erty will pass into the hands of the bond holders, who, it is hoped, will reorganize and carry on the business successfully.

The Elyria Shear Company

which occupies a portion of the screw and tap company's building, was incorjmrated on the 7th day of March, 1878, with an authorized capital of ten thousand dollars, which was paid in soon after the articles of incorporation were received. The first and present officers are: T. L. Nelson, president; W. P. Hatch, vice-president; M. A. Mihills, secretary; and John Clause, treasurer. This industry alone furnishes employment for thirty-four workmen, who receive an aggregate of one thousand dollars, at the end of each mouth's labor. The monthly sales average thirty-five hundred dollars, and are steadily increasing. They manufacture shears and scissors of every description, and of a superior quality. The company are general agents for the union knife company's cutlery, and intend soon commencing the manufacture of this class of goods.

Planing Mills

Dickinson, Williams & Faxon. - In 1853, Alexander Smith came from the east, formed a partnership with John W. Bullock, bought a lot north of the L. S. & M. S. Ry. depot, and erected thereon a building, which was fitted up witli the machinery requisite for the manufacture of agricultural implements. In the year 1854, Mr. Bullock retired from the firm. Henry Thurston purchased his interest, and put in a planer and matcher, surface plauer and machinery for making sash, doors, and blinds. In September, 1856, the building and contents were destroyed by fire. Messrs. Franklin and Levi A. Dickinson joined with Mr. Thurston, purchased the site, and erected a large, two-story building, and in the spring of 1857, began the manufacture of sash, doors, blinds, etc., in connection with general planing mill work. Th'V also engaged extensively in general jobbing and building. Clayton Johnson having become a member of the firm, tlio business was continued under the firm name of Dickinson, Johnson & Co., until February, 1865, when Franklin Dickinson, (in consequence of failing health.) sold his interest to the two remaining partners. The business had grown to such magnitude that, from twelve to fifteen workmen were kept in constant employment. In 1871, extensive additions were made to the buildings, and improved machinery added. In 1875, Mr. Johnson sold his interest to George D. Williams and Theodore Faxon, and the business has been continued under the firm name of Dickinson, Williams and Faxon until the present time. The entire capital invested is fifteen thousand dollars. Average number of workmen employed, fifteen. Average monthly pay roll, seven hundred dollars. Engine, forty horse power. They also manufacture specialties in furniture.

The planing mill owned by JoJiu W. Hart is situated on Broad street. It was erected several years since, but of its early history we are unable to obtain details. Mr. Hart purchased the property in 1873, and has thoroughly refitted it with machinery of the latest and most approved pattern. The engine is of forty horse power. There is a force of eighteen workmen employed, who receive on the average eigbt hundred dollars pay monthly. Mr. Hart has invested ill the business the snug sum of fifty thousand dollars. He does a general planing mill work, including sash, doors, blinds, etc. He is also extensively engaged in the stone trade.

C. Parscli's j)laning mill is located on Mill street, near the L. S. & M. S. railway. He has five thousand dollars invested, and employs nine workmen. Hi.s engine is of twenty-five horse power. He also deals in shingles, lath, etc.

James Hollis' Foundry & Machine Shop. - Mr. Hollis has been engaged in this line of business in Elyria for about thirty years. He began work in his present building, on Maple street, in 1871, with a capital of five thousand five hundred dollars. He manufactures engines, horse powers, and does general repairs, foundry and machine work.

E. F. Bronsou manufactures (also on Majile street) the centennial lap board, and also specialties in fine furniture. The business, which was established in November, 1877, already represents a capital of six thousand dollars, and may bo claimed among the

Elyria Variety Works

This business was established in the year 1867, by its present proprietor, Mr. James A. Tite. The manufactures are of a general nature - -lawn mowers, feed cutters, etc. The specialty is of making lightning rod tips. Engine is of fourteen horse power. The avei'age number of workmen employed is nine.

Carriage Manufactory

That of Crisp & Hensen is the only exclusive manufactory of fine carriages in Elyria. These gentlemen commenced business in April, 1873, investing three thousand dollars. Tiiey employ an average of ten workmen. This establishment turns out a fine line of carriages, wagons, sleighs, etc.

Floueinr Mills

Undoubtedly, the oldest flouring mill now in operation in Elyria is the one at the foot of Broad street, on the east branch of Black river, near the bridge. The present proprietor is Mr. Garret Reublin, who has recently purchased the property, investing ten thousand five hundred dollars. This mill has four run of stones, and is in fine condition. It does both custom and merchant milling. The principal propelling power is water, though there is a forty horse power engine, which is used in seasons when the water is low. The saw-mill adjoining, owned by the same gentleman, is of more recent construction.

The flouring mill owned by I. S. Metcalf is located on Broad street, between West and Middle avenues, and was erected by Messrs. Chapman & Gibson. Mr. Metcalf purchased the property in 1874, paying therefor ten thousand dollars. It is driven by a forty horse power steam engine. There are two run of stones, and both custom and merchant milling are done.

Ashery And Soap Manufactory'

The former was put in operation in the fall of 1843, by N. B. Gates, and is still owned and operated by him. At the time it was established, large quantities of ashes could be procured from the settlers, wlio were clearing lands and burning log heaps. Black salts were also brouglit in in large quantities, which Mr. Gates converted into pearlash. Now tlie ashes are collected from the citizens, made from wood consumed in their dwellings. The location is on the west branch of the river near the railroad bridge. The making of pot and pearl ashes is still continued. The soap works were built in 1862, by Messrs. Clark & Cathcart. Mr. Gates purchased them in September, 18G9, and manufactured cliemical erasive soap, turning out ton tons per year, and an equal quantity of ])ot and pearl aslics. He lias four tliou-^aml two liunilrecl dollars invested, and employs four workmen.

Ei.Yria Ijkkauy

This enduring monument to the memory of its generous founder was first opened on the KHli <lay of June, 1870. It came into being as follows:

To the will of the lamented Charles Arthur Ely, execnted March 19, 18.56, was added a codicil, December 1, 18.57, containing a bequest, by the provisions of which the executor was directed to convoy to five well-known gentlemen (named in the will), trustees, the site of the present Library Block, and the building then standing thereon. The executor was also directed to pay to said trustees the sum of five thousand dollars, to be invested in books for immediate use, and the further sum of ton thousand dollars to be invested as a permanent fund, the income only of which was applicable to the use of the library. Mr. Ely died on the 30th of Soptomber, 18(U; and the provisions of the will above mentioned were carried into effect by his administrator.

The trustees named in the will were: Dr. Nortcm y. Townshend, ILenian Ely, Ilarwood M. Redington, George Olmstead and Prof. James Monroe, of Oberlin. Mr. Monroe declining to act, Hon. John C Hale was appointed to fill the vacancy. They immediately entered ujiou their labors; the building above referred to was fitted up; two thousand volumes were purchased, and on April 1, 1870, the present very able librarian. Miss Nettie E. Wheeler, began the labor of arranging the books and preparing a catalogue; and on the 10th of the following June, the library was formally opened for the use of the public. The exercises were conducted at the court house, and consisted of an address by the Hon. Norton S. Townshend, and such other ceremonies as are usual on occasions of this kind.

In the disastrous fire which occurred on the 15th day of March, 1873, the building and library were consumed. Only three hundred and seventy-five books, out of four thousand volumes then in the library, were saved. There was a thousand dollars of insurance on the building, and from the avails of this and a small amount additional the present elegant building was erected. This was completed, and first occupied on May 11, 1874. It was not opened to the public until the 25th of July following. There is at the present time a very choice collection of liooks, numbering six thousand volumes.

Banking Interests

Pursuant to an act "to incorporate the State Bank of Ohio and other banking companies," passed February 34, 1845, the Lorain Bank, in Elyria, (the first in the county), was established on the 25th day of May, 1847, with a capital stock of one hundred thousand dollars. This was divided into one thousand shares of one hundred dollars each. On June 23,

1847, a meeting of the stockholders c(nivoncd; Henian Ely was ajjpointed chairman and Elijah DeW'itt secrelarv. 'I'he next business was the election of a board of directors. This was done by ballot, and the following gentlemen were elected: Hcman Ely, Elijah DeWitt, Enoch Clark, Artemas Beebe, Amasa Chiqiman, Conrad Reid, John B. Wilbor, Aaron Root and Homau Ely, Jr. The followiivg officers were then elected: Henian Ely, president; Artemas Beebe, vicc- ])residont; Elijah DeWitt, secretary; W. A. Adair, cashier, and Levi Buriiell, teller and book-keeper.

Having effected an organization, a banking house was opened in Room No. 3 of the Beebe House Block (now occujiied by L. Taylor as a crockery store), and in this the business of the bank was transacted until January 1, 1875, when it was removed to its elegant rooms in the Ely Block (first floor of the library building). Mr. Ely resigned his position as prosideut April 24, 1849, and Artemas Beebe was elected his successor, but declined the acceptance of the office, whereupon Elijah DeWitt was elected to the position, and is still the able incumbent of that office. On the date above given, the office of vice-president was discontinued.

The board of directors has suffered few changes, and remains substantially as at first oi-ganized. Jfr. Adair resigned his jiosition as cashier, December 4, 1849, which was accepted, and, on January 1, 1850, John R. Finn was elected to succeed him. Mr. Finn was elected vice-president of the State Bank of Ohio in 1855, and he resigned his position as cashier. Hemau Ely was ap])ointed cashier pro tern,., and served nntd January 7, 185G, when the present incumbent of the office, Mr. John W. Ilulburt, was elected. The bank continued to do a highly prosperous business until the year 1864, when, on April 2d, a meeting of the citizens was hehl, under the act of Congress to provide for a national currency, a])proved February 25, 18G3, to take the preliminary steps toward organizing the First National Bank of Elyria. The subscribers to the stock of the new organization at this time were as follows:

The certificate of authorization was issued May 25, 1804. Subsequently directors wore elected as follows: Artemas Beebe, Elijah Do Witt, George G. Washburn, Hem-y E. Mussey, Seymour W. Baldwin, and George R. Starr. Elijah Do Witt was elected president and John AV. Hulbnrt, cashier. In 1870 the oifice of vice president was created and Homan Ely was elect t'^l to fill the position. The directors for 1878, are Artemas Beebe, S. AV. Baldwin, William Jones, H. E. Mussey, George R. Starr, James M. Chapman, Elijah DeWitt, George G. Washburn, and Heman Ely. This bank has been conducted in the interest of the

])eoplc and not in the interest of a ring or individuals. It has, from its inception, done an honorable and prudent business. The Bank Examiner spealvS in terms higlily commendatory of its management.

The Savings Deposit Bank oe Elyria, began business in November, 1873, witli T. L. Nelson, president; J. C. Hill, cashier; Hon. Sidney S. Warner, Hon. John C. Hale, Hon. R. A. Horr, C. W. Horr, S. R. Lanndon, Hon. W. W. Boyntoii, William A. Bniman, John W. Hart, I. S. Metcalf, and Lorenzo Clark, directors. The board of investment, T. L. Nelson, J. C. Hill, William A. Braman, John C. Hale, and W. W. Boynton. The responsibility of this Inuik aggregates five hundred thousand dollars which is ])ledged and liable for the payment of all debts and obligations of the bank. The business is of a general nature. The savings dei^artment is designed to afford those who desire to save their money the means of employing it to advantage without incurring any risk of losing it, as is often the case when loaned to individuals.

Mercantile History Of Elykia

Edmund West opened the first store in Elyi'ia. Hemaii Ely (tlie founder of tlie township) was his partner, thougli he took no active ])art in conducting the business. Theodore W. Ely, from West Springfield, Mass., became a partner of Mr. West, June 1, 183.5. Theodore W. Ely died May 3, 1836, at the age of twenty-tliree years. Mr. West died July 15, 1835, at the age of twentj'-nine years. He was succeeded by Norris 0. Stow, who associated with him Theodore W. Ely whose early death is above stated. Mr. Stow coiulucted the business until his death, which occurred on the 13th of April, 1830. He was succeeded by Addison Tracy and Phineas Johnson under the firm name of Tracy and Johnson, who conducted the business until 1833, when they became members of the Lorain Iron Company, and their stock of goods was removed to tlie company's store as part of its stock in trade. When the Lorain Iron Company suspended business, Isaac M. Johnson purchased their stock of goods, and continued in business but a year or two when lie sold out to Tlnnnas Wilcox and William M. Becbe, under the firm-name of Wilcox and Beebe. They in turn sold, in 1840, to Baldwin & Company. 2Vt an early period in the history of Elyria, probably in 1833 or '34, Stanton Sholes established a store in the building now occupied by Mr. Monroe, on the north side of Broad street, between Middle and East avenues. In two or tliree years he sold out to Thompson Miles, who soon after built a brick store at the northwest corner of Broad .street and East avenue, where he transacted business until 1833, when, having secured a competence, he retired from business. About the year 1837, two brothers, Sheldon and C. B. Guthrie, established a store in a frame building on the north side of Broad street, about midway lietween Middle and East avenues. They continued in business for about three years. Sheldon Guthrie is now living in New Orleans. His brother, C. B. Guthrie, died recently in Washington City. Raymond Starr commenced trade in Elyria in 1838, and continued in business until 1835, when he retired. The brick bu i Id ing adjoining the one now occupied by the Elyria RcpuhlicaH printing office, was erected by him and occuiiied for several years as a store.

Horace K. Kendall. - This gentleman deserves more than a passing notice, for he revolutionized trade not only in Elyria, but to a great extent throughout Northern Ohio. He came from Suffield, Connecticut, to Elyria in Hie spring of 1833, and opened a store in the brick building erected by Captain Sylvanus Parmely, on the comer where the present Beebe House stands. The merchants of Elyria having been accustomed to sell goods to the farmers on credit, and as they expected to lose from thirty to fifty per cent., marked their pi-ices on that basis. Mr. Kendall sold his goods only ior cash, and fixed his prices very much lower than tliey had ever before been offered in this market. He soon had a rush of customers, and in a year or two built the large brick store on the north side of Broad street, now occupied by Hannan & Obits. He jnirchased all kinds of farmers' produce, paying cash; but most of it was left in the store in payment for goods. Soon trade flocked in, not only from the extreme parts of this county, but from Medina, AVayne and Cuyahoga counties, and Elyria became a center of trade.

He possessed a great deal of dash and enterprise, and was not afraid of the liberal use of printer's ink. He, for a considerable time, published a monthly paper filled mostly with his advertisements, but containing in addition a great deal of miscellaneous and entertaining reading matter. This was distributed gratuitously, and eagerly sought for. His advertisements were striking, ingenious and amusing.

In the spring of 1843, Henry E. Mussey, who had long been his confidential clerk, became associated with him in the business. Mr. Kendall had been for many yeai's an active and inlluential member of the Baptist church, and contributed liberally towards the erecticm of their fine brick church building, whicli stands on the corner of Second street and Jliddle avenue.

Mr. Kendall died on the 4t]i of June, 1850, at the early age of forty-one years. He left a haudsonie fortune. In his death, Elyria and Lorain county sustained a great loss. After his death, Mr. Mussey, who associated with himself Hiram Fuller, conducted the business successfully until 1858, when they sold out to Seymour W. Baldwin, T. W. Laundon and T. L. Nelson, under the firm name of Baldwin, Laundon & Nelson. Mr. Mussey retired from mercantile business. Mr. Fuller removed to Akron, where he now resides.

OziAS Long. - This gentleman obtained the contract to build the court house, in 1838, and started a store principally, it is believed, for the payment of his workmen. After completing his contract, he coutinueil mercantile business successfully for several years. In 1833 or 1834, John M. Gillett, S. R. Darling and S. B. Wolcott, under the firm name of Gillett, Darling & Wolcott, became his successors. Mr. Long was for six years one of the associate judges of the court of common pleas for Lorain county, and afterwards served as postmaster for the term of four years. He died February 21, 1859, aged sixty years. Gillett, Darling & Wolcott were his successors, and conducted the business for two or three j'cars, when they sold out to William F. Church. After a year or two, Mr. Church removed his goods to Sullivan, when our present mayor, ISfahum B. Gates, put in a stock of goods. He sold out at the end of a year to Messrs. Castle & King, of Medina, and the goods were removed to that place.

A. Beebe, afterwards Beebe & Gates; Horatio N. Gates and Charles Green, Gates & Green; the Lorain Iron Company, Isaac M. Johnson, Thompson Miles, H. Guthrie, Raymond Starr and Ozias Long.

Ransom Redington, Erastus and Edwin Hall (E. & E. Hall), W. F. Church, H. K. Kendall & Co., S. W. Baldwin, Enoch Clark, Cowles and Ryder, Sanford and Andrews, Gillett, Darling & Wolcott. Andrews and Morse, Cowles, Merwin & Hull, Nichols & Kuowles, and Henry Bush.

Seymour W. Baldwin. - In the fall of 1834, Orriu Cowles opened a store, under the firm of Baldwin & Cowles. S. W. Baldwin, the senior member of the firm, did not come to Elyria until the spring of 1835. They conducted a successful business until 1839, when the firm was dissolved, and Mr. Cowles opened a new store. Mr. Baldwin associated with him William M. Judd, and subsequently David B. Andrews, under the firm name of Baldwin & Co. In 1840, they bought out Wilcox & Beebe for the sake of getting the corner store. Soon after, D. B. Andrews left him, and was associated for a few years with F. B. Sanford (Sanford & Andrews). They dissolved, Sanford continuing the business, and Andrews opened a new store, associating with himself Levi Morse. Cowles took for a partner Mr. Erastus Hall. Subsequently they dissolved, and Cowles associated with himself Oliver R. Ryder (Cowles & Ryder). Erastus Hall formed a co-partnership with his brother Edwin Hall (E. & E. Hall).

In the j'ear 1840 or 1841, Mr. Baldwin formed a partnership with George R. and Horace C. Starr, under the firm name of Baldwin & Co. Subsequently they gave Thomas W. Laundon and Thomas L. Nelson an interest in the business, This firm did a very successful business until 1852, when Mr. Baldwin, having secured a competence, retired from the firm, and returned to his former home, in Meriden,

Connecticut. After three years' absence, Mr. Baldwin, having become tired of a life of inactivity, returned to Elyria in 1855, and renewed his partnership with Starr Brothers & Co. This continued for the limited term of three years, when Mr. Baldwin, associating with himself Messrs. Laundon and Nelson, purchased the stock of goods of Henry E. Mussey, and commenced business under the firm name of Baldwin, Laundon & Nelson. This firm was dissolved in 1870, Mr. Nelson becoming president of the Elyria Deposit and Savings Bank.

Mr. T. W. Laundon lives a quiet, retired life, enjoying the fruits of many years of industry and enterprise. Soon after the dissolution of the firm, Mr. Baldwin made the tour of Europe with his son.

In the year 1858, S. W. Baldwin, T. W. Laundon, S. K. Laundon, and T. L. Nelson, formed a co-partnership and opened a store in Wellington which has done a very successful business and is still continued. It is conducted by Mr. S. K. Laundon.

Of all the young men who were trained in the store of Mr. Baldwin and his partners it is believed not one has turned out badly. All of them occupy prominent positions in business and in society. This is due mainly to the fact that their morals were carefully guarded and they acquired habits of industry and integrity. Many of them boarded with Mr. Baldwin. They were furnished with the best of reading matter and had no inclination to spend their evenings in idleness or on the streets. Mr. Baldwin has become wealthy and enjoys most fully the respect and confidence of the people of Elyria and of Lorain county.

Geroge R. Starr and Horace C. Starr were clerks of S. W. Baldwin & Co. Their former business connection with him has been already stated. After the dissolution of the firm of Baldwin, Starr & Co. they associated with themselves Mr. John L. Cole and their brothers Frank and Alonzo Starr. The latter withdrew from the firm in three years, but Mr. Cole continued a member until 1872. They did a large Inisiness and enjoyed the friendship and esteem of the people to a remarkable degree. In the vear 1873 their store and its entire contents were consumed by the disastrous fire which destroyed the entire block, containing some eigiit or ten business rooms. Their loss by this fire was fifty thousand dollars over and altove their insurance. With their usual pluck they at once fitted up a store in the town hall, purchased a new stock of goods and again commenced business. They continued in biLsiuess in the town hall for about a year, when, the new block being conii)leted, they returned to their old (juarters. Though greatly crijipled by the fire they continued until February, 187s, when they retired. Few men, if any, have done as much to adorn and beautify our village, and none arc more respected by its citizens and the people of the county.

DiiUfi Stores. - In 1832, Dr. John S. Matson ojieued a small drug store in the front room of his dwelling house. The same room contained also the postofBce. In a few years he jmt up a i)retty large wooden store and greatly enlarged his business. About tlie year 1838 he added dry goods to his stock of drugs. In 1842 or ,'43, he removed to Cleveland, leaving his store in charge of his brother-in-law, Addison Tracy. He died soon after his removal, and Drs. E. W. Hubbard and L. D. Griswold purchased the stock of drugs, and conducted the business for a year or two when they sold out to Mr. John F. Wooster. Mr. Wooster soon associated with himself his brother. Mr. William F. Wooster, and soon after sold out to him. Mr. William F. Wooster still continues the business. He has been a very successful merchant, and has accumulated a handsome pi'operty.

Dr. Elijah DeWitt, in the year 1824, settled in Harrisvile, Medma county, and engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery. Hisride was extensive and laborious at that early day. In July, 1835, he removed to Elyria and opened a drug store. He did a successful business in that time until 1852, when, having been a])pointed secretary and treasurer of the Junction Rail Road, then being constructetl, he left his drug store in charge of his son, R. C. DeWitt, who had for several years been his .partner. He was for six years an associate Judge of the county. In about a year the store was sold to Mr. Charles Arthur Ely, who in turn sold it to Messrs. Bagg & Jenkins, who after two years sold to Messrs. Redington & .lenkins. These gentlemen conducted the business for several years, when it again became the property of Mr. Ely, who sold it to Mr. Jerome Manville.

In the year 1850, Dr. Eber W. Hubbard established a drug store in tlie Beebe block. In 1852, Dr. Hubbard being about to remove to Staten Island, N. Y., sold his stock of drugs to Dr. L. D. Griswold and J. Manville. They continued in partnership about five years, when Dr. Griswold I'etired from the fii-m. Mr. Manville still continues the business and has been very successful.

Groceries and Provisions. - H. Brush, Hoyle Brothers, McCuUum & Lilly, Henry Wurst, W. H. Smith, J. A. Bean, George M. Haag, Frank Root, William Downing, Diedrich & Wiler. and J. C. King.

Books and Stationery. - William S. Wilson. Mr. Wilson bought out E. C. Griswold, in 18T7, who had successfully carried on the business for twenty-two years.

Miscellaneous. - Wm. I. Hobill, music store; T. L. Taylor, crockery and glass ware. Jones .S Moshier, and Jakob Stephen, bakery and groceries. Clark & Faxon, candy manufacturers and wholesale dealers, W. F. Burget, Upholsterer. J. B. Woolbridge, Marble Works. Geo. G. Washburn, Printer, Editor, and Publisher of the Elyria Republican. F. S. Reefy, Editor and Publisher of the Elyria Constitntioii. Ingersoll & Harris, Job Printers. G. R. Byford, Book-binder. Joseph Kelling, Flour and Feed Store. H. E. Mussej' & Co., dealers in Building and Flagging Stone. Charles F. Lee, I. S. Haines, and H. S. Williams, Photograi>hers. John Mountain and W. Walker, Merchant Tailors. Miss A. Bay less, Mrs. L E. Snell, H. L. Underwood, Mrs. C. M. Dake, and J. M. Cook & Co., Dressmakers. Snearer & Waldeck and P. A. Anderson, Undertakers. Andrus and J. Burdick, Livery.

Trades and Specialties. - A. F. Parsons and Paul Krause, Carriage Painters. Allen & Holcorab, C. W. Goodspeed, R. W. Todd, Marvin Todd, and Paul Dumas, Sign and House Painters. C. W. Hunt, Carriage Trimmer. Abel Goodspeed and D. E. Dengate, Wagon Makers. Ward A Maple, F. Gilbert, L. Wait, Hafner & DachUer, and N. Wagoner* Sons, Blacksmiths.

Fire Department

To guard against the ravages of the fii-ey element, lias been the aim of every community. Elyria village lias been taught this lesson by dire experience. Two extensive fires have prevailed, destroying, in ))oth instances, the business part of the town. AVe are unable to give the losses, but they were very great. In the year 1839, a small hand fire engine was purchased, and a company of thirty men organized, under the name of the "^Etna Fire Company No. 1." S. W. Baldwin was foreman, and Samuel C. Goodwin, secretary and treasurer. This constituted the entire department until 1850, when another hand engine was purchased, and "PhrenixFire Conii)any No. 2," consisting also of thirty members, was organized. About this time, the hook and ladder company, of thirty members, was also formed. The force was now considered an efficient one, until the memorable fifteenth of March, 1873, when it was demonstrated that it was wholly insufficient to cope with the coullagration. Immediately after this event, the common council l)rocured a number two steam fire engine from the manufactory of the Messrs. Silsby, at Seneca Falls, New York, which, with two hose carts and one thousand feet of two and a half inch rubber hose cost six thousand, seven hundred and fifty dollars. The officers of this company are: John T. Houghton, chief engineer; John Hufner, assistant engineer; Charles S. Bird, engineer; John M. Tite fireman. "^Etna Hose Comp.any" has thirty-five men; George Kline, foi'cman; Frank Stark, assistant. "^Etna Fire Company" still maintains its organization; Fred Duchtler, foreman; Henry Fairman, assistant. The water snpj)ly is ample, and consists of twenty reservoirs and two tanks. There is also a fancy hook and ladder company, which has a fine record. As at jiresent organized, the fire department of Elyria is far above the average in ctHciency.

This fine structure was erected jointly by the township and village of Elyria, in the year 18C7, and cost, when coni2)leted, twenty-nine thousand dollars. An extensive addition was made to it in 1878, at an investment of seven thousand dollars. The upper floor is wholly occupied by an audience hall, stage, dressing and property rooms. The seating capacity is nearly one thousand. The first floor is occupied by the fire department, mayor's office, lockup, etc.

Free axd Accepted Masons. - King Solomon's Lodge No. 50, of this order, Avas granted a dispensation on Monday, the 13tli day of December, A. D. 1819, with Henian Ely as W. .M., Jabez Burrell, S. W., and John Reading, J. W. The charter was granted Deccm' er 11, 1821, and the growth of this lodge was, from that time, very satisfactory, until the outbreak growing out of the Morgan excitement rendered it advisable to cease labor. . Tliis took place in 182S, ami for twenty years there was no lodge in Elyria.