Winnebago County, Wisconsin - Chapter 48, 1880

Chapter 48

iHIS mammoth establishment is one of the largest manufactories of any kind in the State. The value of its products for the past year amounted to the sum of $488,945,83 and at the rate it has increased will far exceed that amount in the present year. Its rapid growth may be seen in the fact that the value of its matches manufactured in 1872, was $90,000; in 1875, it was $374,000; while for the year ending 1878 it reached the sum of nearly half a million of dollars.

For the purpose of obtaining a full supply of the best of straight-grained timber, for splints, Mr. Clark erected last year, a saw mill, in addition to the works proper.

The following exhibits the business for the year ending January 1st, 1879: Number of hands employed, 350; two million five hundred feet of timber; two hundred and ten tons of straw-board and paper for making boxes; seven thousand pounds of phosphorus, sixty tons of brimstone. Average monthly wages paid to hands, $5000,00; aggregate yearly payment to hands $60,000,00. Value of products for the 1878, $488,945.83. One of the advantages possessed by this factory is the facilities for obtaining the very best of straight-grained timber, for splints, which ensures with other qualities, the superiority for which these matches are distinguished. The large amount of complicated machinery running in these works would astonish any one who had never witnessed the details of the manufacture of matches. There is in the first place, the steam engines, and the complicated system of belting for connecting power with the endless machinery in the various departments. Next comes the lathe in the machine shop, where the repairing is done to disabled machinery. Then the circular saws that cut the timber into the proper dimemsions - the match-splint macliines, of which there are eight, with a capacity of making 115,400 match-sphnts per minute. In the racking room are five racking machines, which place the matches in proper fixtures for dipping. In another room are six cutting machines which cut the splints, which are made double-length, in two. Another department contains the heating furnace and dipping machines. But the most ingenious machinery, working with the precision of an intelligent being, is that of the paper-box machines. There are four of these, which cost $10,000, and which turn out 4,200 paper boxes per hour. No description can do justice to these wonderful, ingenious, and beautiful contrivances. There are other machines in the same room, which cut at each movement about 100 pieces of paper into the proper shape for making the boxes. These are placed, several hundred at a time, in the box machine, which rapidly manipulates them into the finished box. There are ten separate machines in this department. There are, including engines, saws, racking and splint machines, box machines, etc, over forty separate machines in the various departments; so it will be seen, that to make so small a thing as a match, with profitable facility, avast amount of complicated machinery is necessary, involving multifarious details, requiring the nicest accuracy in their practical management.

This busy hive of human industry works like some vast machine, performing the details of its complicated movements with the precision of clock-work. Its management requires the greatest practical skill and a clear headed comprehension of all its various movements, and there are but comparatively few persons competent to perform the task.

The history ofthese works shows at least one instance in which the highest success is notaccidental. In the fall of 1863 Mr. Clark perfected a match-splint machine. He was previously engaged in filing the saws in Mc- Millen'smill. At that time Daniel Ruggleswas engaged in the manufacture of splints, and at a cost of about $500 procured a round-splint machine, which worked so imperfectly that he sold the same to Mr. Clark for $30. The latter finding this machine impracticable, constructed a new one which worked so successfully that he engaged exclusively in the manufacture of splints. At that time his capital was less than a hundred dollars. At first he took the splints to his house for the purpose of sorting them, and employed only one hand for the work. In time, every room in the lower part of the house was used by occupants sorting splints. The business had increased to such an extent that Mr. Clark determined to start a factory, and consequently erected a building, now a pa:rt of the works, in 1864. In 1868 he commenced the manufacture of matches, on a small scale. From these small beginnings the business so rapidly increased, that in seven years the product of the factory reached the amount of $374,000 in one year.

In the building up of this very successful business, Mr. Clark was very ably seconded by his wife, who evinced great executive ability in the management of its details and especially in organizing the help, and Mr. Clark attributes much of his success to the very valuable assistance of Mrs. Clark. The management is now so systematically organized that the various departments work like some vast machine, each of which is dependent on the other.

The superiority ofthese matches has secured for them a widely extended popularity, and at the rate in which the product of the works is increasing it will soon reach a million of dollars per annum, giving employment to six or seven hundred hands.

The benefit of this factory to the city cannot be over-estimated. It has never received or asked for one cent of bonus, or any municipal favors, being self-sustaining from the first, and is the result of dilligence, well directed enterprise, good business management and honest dealing.

The work is all done by the piece. By this system each hand gets all that he earns, and it seems to give the fullest satisfaction to employer and employed; as the hands all seem cheerful and interested in their work and habits of industry and good morals are inculcated by the admirable management.

This institution has graduated a new manager in the person of Mr. Clark's son, Herbert M. Clark, who is said to be fully competent to the post he now occupies, that of general superintendent.

The book-keeper, cashier and general correspondent, is Mr. Arthur W. Jones, and this department is in the hands of a faithful and competent manager.

Among the illustrations in this work will be found that of the sash and door factory, and planing mill of Foster & Jones. This is one of the heaviest manufacturing concerns in this city, and its proprietors stand in the fronl ranksof its business men. The firm was estab-

This factory contains all the best improved machinery and every facility for the manufacture of their products at the lowest possible cost, enabling them to successfully meet any competition in the market. They employ from seventy to eighty hands and have a capacity for manufacturing yearly 80,000 doors, 200,000 windows, and 40,000 pairs of blinds, besides wood-mouldings and dressed lumber.

The actual manufactures fall but little short of the capacity of the works. They manufacture wood-mouldings to the value of $25,000 per annum, which they ship by the car-load. They dress over 5,000,000 feet of lumber on an average each year. Their yearly products aggregate a value of $150,000.

The members of this firm have always been foremost in aiding every public enterprise for the benefit of this place, and both have received from their townsmen the compliment of the highest ofiicial position within the gift of the city. Hon. Carlton Foster, who is a skillful millwright, moved from Essex County, New York, his native place, to Oshkosh in 1855; in 1859 he purchased a saw-mill in this place and engaged in the manufacture of lumber, which business he conducted very successfully. In 1865 he formed a partnership with Hon. Jas. V. Jones in the manufacture of sash, blinds, doors and mouldings. Mr. Foster rapidly grew in the esteem of the people of this city and was elected mayor for two terms and chosen to serve two terms in. the State Legislature, acquitting himself in both positions to the fullest satisfaction of his constituency. He is conservative in politics and of rather antipartisan tendencies, and is a man of sound judgment and of the strictest integrity. His handsome residence is situated just outside of the city limits in the Town of Algoma on a handsome tract of eighty acres. A view of the same is given in this work.

Hon. James V. Jones moved from his birthplace, Oswego, New York, to Oshkosh in 1855, and though poor in pocket vigorously commenced that business career in which he has been so successful. First, as a building contractor, which he followed for some years, and next as a partner of Carlton Foster. Mr. Jones, in his new business, soon gave evidence of that executive force, business vim and spiritof enterprise for which he has since become distinguished, being one of those men who act with great vigor and force in whatever they undertake. He is a strong partisan and has taken an active part in political strife, and has the aggressive qualities of a leader. He has received from his townsmen the highest marks of their favor and esteem, having been three times elected mayor, and once chosen to represent his district in the Legislature. In both capacities he served with much distinction. He is a man of much public spirit and a willing leader in all public enterprises, ready to do all in his power to promote the interests of the city. As a business man he possesses fine qualifications, and his dealings are characterized by the strictest integrity.

Cook, Brown & Co

The members of this firm are Ossian Cook, R. C. Brown, F. E. Waite and B. F. Carter. They manufacture, on a large scale, drain tile, brick and lime; and employ eighty hands, and have a large steamer and a sail vessel of their own, which are kept engaged in transporting material. They also employ two other sail vessels in freighting brick, stone and wood.

Their two large brick-yards are on the east shore of the lake, where a fine quality of brick-clay exists in inexhaustible quantities, and from which they manufacture superior cream-colored brick and drain tile. Their stone quarries are also located on the east shore, from whence they ship the stone which is here manufactured into lime. They have two patent kilns, situated near their shipping dock, which is always a scene of great business activity. The greater part of the handsome buildings on Main Street have been built of brick of their manufacture. Among these are the Beckwith, Fraker Opera Hall, Masonic Temple, Wolcott and other business blocks.

Their lime and drain tile are of such superior quality that there is a large demand for shipment to other States; and they ship large quantities to Michigan, Illinois, Nebraska and Minnesota.

Their average j'early manufactures are 3,000,000 of brick, 30,000 barrels of lime and 200,000 drain tile. They also do a large business in cement, stucco, land-plaster, sewer pipe, fire-brick and hardwood; of the latter, about 5,000 cords pass through their hands yearly.

One of the firm, Hon. B. F. Carter, resides on the east shore, and represents that district in the State Legislature. The others are regarded as among the most enterprising and thorough-going business men of this city, who contribute largely to its prosperity. On an-

Robert Mcmillen & Co

Attention is called to the fine view of this mammoth concern; one of the largest in this city. It consists of a saw-mill, shingle mill and sash, door and blind factory. The capacity of the saw-mill is 50,000 feet per day. The sash and door factory turns out on an average, 200 doors, 400 windows and lOO pairs of blinds per day. One hundred odd hands are employed. The members of the firm are Robert McMillen and C. W. Davis.

Their present saw-mill was built in 1868, and in 1873 they constructed their mammoth sash, door and blind factory, which has been enlarged from time to time to meet the increasing demands of their business. This is one of the establishments that gives Oshkosh her reputation abroad, as the greatest sash and door manufacturing point in the West. They have the facilities in the best of machinery for promptly filling the largest orders, and turn out work which, for quality, is not excelled. The cars are continually at their shipping house, in the process of loading with their wares, which arc shipped by the car-load in various directions. This firm enjoys a high business reputation and conduct their aftairs on the principles of the strictest integrity.

Mr. McMillen came from Warren County, New York, to Oshkosh in 1854, and by diligence and business sagacity has successfully pushed his fortunes. He is one of the directors of the First National Bank, and is regarded as a man of first-class business ability, and kind and generous in his relations with all. A view of his beautiful residence and grounds on Algoma Street, is given in this work. It was formerly the residence of Governor Bashford, and is one of the handsomest places in the city.

Mr. Charles W. Davis moved to this place in i860, and was for some years in the foundry and machine-shop business. He superintends the manufacturing department, and it is in energetichands. Mr. Davisis highly esteemed as a useful business man and good citizen. In 1868 he was elected mayor of this city, and filled the position satisfactorily to the public.

Schmit Bros

A view of this establishment will be found on another page. It gives employment to some 60 hands, and contributes largely to this city's business and prosperity. The enterprising proprietors have enlarged their works from time to time so as to increase the facilities, for meeting the general demand for their trunks, which theyship by the carload. Their facilities enable them to enter the market successfully against all competitors in price and quality. The value of such a factory as this to Oshkosh cannot be over estimated, as it gives employment to so large a number of hands throughout the year, and is the means of putting in circulation a large amount of money. The Schmit Brothers exhibit that push and energy in the management of their affairs which is so essential to success, and have proved a valuable accession to the manufacturing interests of this city.

Williamson, Libbey & Co

This is another of the leading manufactories of this city, and is the oldest sash and door factory in Oshkosh, having been established in i860. The members of the firm are Geo. M. William.son, D. L. Libbey, J. R. Jones and J.J. Cameron.

The factory of this firm was destroyed in the great fire of i860, but, with undaunted courage, they immediately rebuilt on a larger scale. Their main building is 125 feet by 75, and in addition to this are dry-houses and ware-houses of large capacity. Their factory is supplied with all the best machinery, for the manufacture of sash, doors, blinds, and wood-mouldings, and for the dressing of lumber, which is an important branch of the business - the planing mill dressing not less than 6,000,000 feet per annum.

They have the best of shipping facilities, and, like the other factories, ship by the car load. Their work has a high reputation in the market, and is well known from Wisconsin to Texas. See view of factory on another page. Geo. Williamson is the business manager, a gentleman of good business capacity, and well-known integrity. J. R. Jones and J.J. Cameron superintend the manufacturing departments; as both are practical mechanics and of large experience in their line, their work has a high reputation in a widely extended market.

Gustavus

tavus and Casper Smith. They have lately remodeled their mill machinery, and the mill now contains seven run of stone and a patent middlings purifier. Their grades of flour rank high in the market, and especially their " straight " and patent flour, which is unexcelled. These gentlemen are determined to build up a successful business, by straight dealing and by furnishing their customers with a superior article. The capacity of the mills is lOO barrels a day; and about one third of the product is shipped to the East. The members of this firm are stirring, enterprising men, who keep pace with the progress of the age. They purchased their mill, known as the South Side Flouring Mills, in 1875, since which time they have put in the modern improvements, and brought the mill up to a high rank. A view of it is given in this work.

Martin T. Battis

Attention is called to a fine view of these works, which will be found among the illustrations in this book. Oshkosh is justly proud of her manufacturing institutions, and this is among the most useful. The large amount of steam machinery in Oshkosh, and in Northern Wisconsin, and the number of steamboats plying its water-courses, creates a large demand for steam boilers. When we consider the important function they perform, and the danger to life and property involved in defective boilers, it will be seen how necessary it is that mechanical skill, thorough experience and a sense of great responsibility should be the qualifications of those who superintend their manufacture.

Martin Battis through the uniform superiority of the boilers he has manufactured in his long years of experience has given the fullest evidence of these qualifications; for during the twenty odd years he has been engaged here in the manufacture of boilers, not an accident has occurred with a boiler of his own make. Mr. Battis has followed this business from boyhood, and is a mechanic of acknowledged skill. He is regarded as one of the most enterprising business men of this city, and ever ready to do all in his power to advance its interests. Suffering, with many otlicrs, in the heavy losses and interruptions of business by the great fire, he nevertheless entered with much vigor into the rebuilding of Oshkosh, and immediately erected his well-apoointed boiler works, and two elegant brick stores. He is one of the men who have the fullest faith in Oshkosh, and who help to give life and vigor to its enterprises.

William Hill & Co

This magnificent store is forty feet wide and one hundred and ten in depth. The lower story front is plate-glass and iron. The inside is of rich finish and design, with lofty ceilings, handsomely frescoed. It is divided into different departments of the trade, and makes a most imposing display of rich goods. In the second story is the carpet wareroom, with an immense stock of various qualities and design.

The individual members of the firm are, William Hill, J. M. S. Mayand A. F. Baehr, names of the highest business standing in this community. They are all gentlemen of lifelong experience in the dry goods trade, and the senior partner has been engaged in the business in this city for twenty-four years.

Hon. Samuel M. Hav

The beautiful residence of Hon. Samuel M. Hay, a view of which appears among the illustrations in this book, is one of the finest in this city. Mr. Hay is one of the pioneer business men of Oshkosh, having established his present house in 1848. His is, in fact, the only surviving business house of that day. He commenced with the very beginning of the growth of Oshkosh, has kept pace with her progress and been identified with her interests from the start. On his advent here the place was but a little hamlet of twenty or thirty houses scattered through the stumps and ti-ees. Mr. Hay, then a very young man, opened a stove, tinware and hardware store, in partnership with a Mr. Hall. They did a most successful business. After a time, Mr. Clark took the place of Mr. Hall in the firm; and on the death of Mr. Clark he wss succeeded by Mr. Hay's brother, the firm now being S. M. Hay & Brother.

The large amount of mill machinery running in Oshkosh and the "Up-River" country created a great demand for mill-furnishing goods, belting, etc., and the firm entered largely into this branch, in addition to iron, tinware, stoves and hardware. This opened up an immense business, involving a large outlay of capital; but this firm had the pecuniary forces to handle it, and prosecuted it with the greatest vigor and success until the house became one of the heaviest firms of the kind in the State Mr. Hay's fine business qualifications and integrity have given given him a very high standing, and he is widely an pop-

His brother, Wm. Hay, now has the chief management of the business of the firm; as much of Mr. S. M. Hay's time is largely occupied in the affairs of the First National Bank of Oshkosh, of which institution he is president. He is also one of the Regents of the State Normal School, and has held many high public positions, among others that of mayor of the city for two terms, State Senator and representative in the Legislature from this Assembly district. Mr. Hay's career, since he came to Oshkosh in 1848, has been one long, continued success, and furnishes an instance of one who, by faithful attention to business and a sagacious use of opportunity, has earned a substantial reward.

Among the fine illustrations in this work is that of the handsome residence and grounds of D. L. Libbey. This gentleman is one of the most enterprising of our citizens, and one of our heaviest manufacturers, being associated in three different firms. Mr. Libbey has for a long scries of years been one of the largest manufacturers of lumber, and is now one of the partners in the sash and door factory of Williamson & Co. He is also the owner of much real estate in the city, among which is the property occupied by the carriage works, and which he is now enlarging. In addition to his other branches of business he is President of the Union National Bank.

Mr. Libbey is a man of great business capacity, quiet and unostentatious, but energetic and thoroughgoing, and is recognized as one of the leaders in public enterprise, and as one who is deeply interested in the prosperity of this city. His business career has been highly successful, and he stands high in the esteem of the community as a good and useful citizen.

Ossian Cook

Mr. Cook moved to this city from Chicago in 1855, and engaged in his present business in 1859, and is now the senior member of the firm of Cook, Brown & Co., a description and view of whose works and shipping dock is given on another page. Mr. Cook is regarded as one of the most prominent leaders here in all enterprises having for their object the advancement of the city. He has been particularly zealous and active in his efforts to obtain a new railroad route to the north, and was one of the leading advocates of the road now being built from this city to Hortonville. He is one of the stirring and enterprising business men who have given Oshkosh the name and fame she now enjoys, and who are determined to push her fortunes to the farthest limits of success.

Ferdinand Hermann

The handsome block of F. Hermann, corner of Main and Waugoo, is among the fine illustrations here presented. This building was erected immediately after the great fire, and is one of the finest business blocks in the city.

Mr. Hermann emigrated in 1850, from Saxony to Milwaukee, where he resided until 1853, when he came to Oshkosh and engaged in the business of building contractor, which he followed until the year 1862, at which time he went into the grocery business on the site of his present block; and from small beginnings has built up a large and constantly increasing business. His house now ranks among the leading ones of the city and he is recognized as one of its best business men. Mr. Hermann has every element of a popular dealer, and is a man of unquestioned integrity.

H. C. Gustavus

H. C. GUSTAVUS. Mr. Gustavus is an old resident, and widely and popularly known, having resided in this city from 1851 to 1867. At the latter date he went to Neenah and had several years practical experience in the milling business, after which he moved back to Oshkosh and in partnership with Mr. Caspar Smith purchased the South Side Flouring Mill. Shortly after his return to this city he built his elegant residence on Oregon street, one of the handsomest in the Third Ward, and is now one of the established leading business men of the city. A \-iew of his residence is given in this work.

Managing editor of the Oshkosh Northivcsicr7i, is one of the early western pioneers, having moved from his native place, Alleghany County, New York, to Chicago in 1846, and being a piactical printer, engaged as foreman on a daily paper. His vocation proving injurious to his health, he went to Mineral Point, Wisconsin, and engaged in mining and land surveying. In 1857 he was elected to represent that district in the State Legislature. In i860 he was appointed assistant chief clerk of the State land office, and on the breaking out of the late war he resigned his position and enlisted as private in the Governor's Guards. He was soon after chosen Captain of the Miners' Guards from Mineral Point, and received a commision from Governor Randall. The company was assigned to the Second Regiment, which afterwards became famous for gallant conduct and hard service. After the battle of Bull Run he was promoted to the rank of Major, and subsequently to that of Lieutenant-Colonel. In 1863 he received a commission as Colonel of the Fifth Wisconsin, and was brevetted Brigadier-General in March, 1865. General Allen participated in several of the most sanguinary engagements of the war, and became conspicuous for his gallant and heroic conduct. He was twice wounded in the battle of Gainsville, when he was Major of the Second Regiment,, but did not leave the field; and was again wounded at Antietam, while commanding the regiment in the absence of Colonel Fairchild. In that engagement he had his right arm broken. While Colonel of the Fifth, his regiment took the lead in the famous charge on Mary's Height. At the charge at Rappahannock Station, as his regiment was crossing the parapet of that redoubt, his hand was so badly shattered by a ball as to unfit him for duty, and he was complimented for his gallant service in that action by a general order of Major General H. G. Wright.

After the time of hisregimenthadexpired he returned to Wisconsin, raised seven new companies, and went with them to the seat of war and served in the campaign of the Shenandoah Valley under General Sheridan. In an attack on the enemy's lines on the second of April, 1865, lie led the advance and again distinguished himself for gallant conduct.

After the close of the war he returned to his home in Wisconsin, and was shortly afterwards elected Secretary of State. In 1870 he moved to Oshkosh and became a partner in the Oshkosh Nvrtlnvcstcru, and has been since that time its managing editor. As a writer he wields "a vigorous pen, and his varied experience has gi\ en him a large fund of general information which is invaluable in an editor. His paper takes a high rank among the publications of the State, and he exercises much influence in the councils of his party.

A view of the residence of Geo. F. Stroud will be found among the illustrations. Mr. Stroud is one of the old settlers, having come to this place in 1851, when in his boyhood, and has been ever closely identified with the interests of this city. No one is more untiring in efforts to promote its prosperity than he, and to lend a willing hand to any enterprise which is calculated to advance its interests. He is one (jf our most successful business men, and his oil, paint and glass house is one of the popular institutions of this city, and stands in the front ranks of our heaviest business houses.

Mr. Stroud's sagacity, and energy is well attested by his great business success; for he has in a few years, from small beginnings, worked up a wholesale trade in oil, paints and glass, that is not exceeded by that of anyother house in the State.

The beautiful residence of Judge D. J. Pulling, corner of Church and Jackson streets, as will be seen by the illustration, is one of the finest in the city. Judge Pulling is now serving his second term of six years, as Judge of this Judicial Circuit; and was elected two years ago by an immense majority. He is regarded as one of the ablest judges in the State, and is noted for his prompt rulings, his punctuality, order and expeditious despatch of business, and for the remarkable clearness and comprehensiveness of his diction in charges to the jury. He stands very high in the estimation of the members of the bar, and his general popularity is well attested by the heavy majorities with which he was elected.

Hon.. Andrew Haben

Among the leading business men of this city the name of Hon. Andrew Haben stands prominent. Mr. Haben came to Oshkosh in 1855, and established his present business house in 1862, He has been remarkably successful in conducting his financial affairs, and through a long series of years has kept his house continually on a sound basis. He is a heavy real estate owner, being the possessor of several brick stores on Main Street. He has been twice elected mayor of this City, and is now State Senator,, representing this county in the Legislature. Public honors seem to shower upon Mr. Haben, as he- has received from his party the nomination for State Treasurer. A view of his handsome residence on Washington street is given.

E. L. And Geo. M. Paine

The beautiful residences and grounds of the above-named gentlemen are on West Algoma Street. They are associates in the firm of C. N. Paine & Co., one of the heaviest lumber manufacturers in the city, and have been engaged in the business since an early day.

C. N. and George M. Paine are among the most enterprising and thorough-going ot our business men. They employ a large force of hands and have contributed very materially toward the business prosperit}' of this city.

Their mill is one of immense capacity and contains all the best improved machinery, and their business is conducted with^ the most systematic precision.

Col. L. M. Miller

One of the most beautiful places to be found is that of Colonel Miller's, on the Lake Shore. This lovely place possesses every feature for making one of the most attractive wateringplaces in the country; as will be seen from the fine view to be found in these pages. It affords one of the most delightful drives, with fine views of the Lake scenery. Skirting the shore is a thicket of native forest trees, which adds much to its attractiveness.

Col. Miller has been identified with the interests of Oshkosh almost from the very starting of the place, having come here in 1846, at which time he opened a store which was the third store started. He has, from the beginning, been one of the heaviest real estate owners in Oshkosh; and, as will be seen by a perusal of these pages has taken a conspicious part in its history. He has held many public positions of trust and responsibility, and has always proved faithful and capable in the discharge of their duties. He has represented this district in the State Legislature, and is at present chairman of the County Board of Supervisors. He proved particularly efficient as chairman of a committee to procure and dispense aid to the sufferers in the two great fires.

Hon. I Dm Wall Petersilea Homestead

One of the most widely known and popular men in Oshkosh, is the genial Freight Agent of the Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroad - the Hon, Tom Wall. He is also superintendent of the Wolf River Line of Steamers, and is one of the most energetic thorough-going business men in this community. A view of his fine residence will be found among the illustrations in this work. Mr. Wall came to Oshkosh in 1857, and shortly after, took the position of clerk on one of the Wolf River Line of Steamers. In a few years he became one of the large stock holders, and finally was intrusted with the general management of the line. He has also for years engaged in extensive lumbering operations, and has dealt largely in pine lands. He is a young man of great executive ability and of fine business capacity, as his career well attests. He came here a mere boy, and unaided, has pushed his way to distinction. He has been three times elected by large majorities, to represent the Oshkosh District in the State Legislature, and served as a member of Assembly, with much credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituency. PETERSILEA HOMESTEAD.

This pleasant place was a part of the estate of Charles Petersilea, deceased, a man who was highly esteemed in the community as one of its most useful and enterprising citizens, and whose untimely and melancholy end was greatly deplored. He met with his death in the terrible railroad accident near Watertown in 1859. The widow resides on the place, and a nephew, Edwin Petersilea, who very creditably represents the name.

Mr. Edwin Petersilea is a young lawyer of fine ability and much promise. He has become quite notorious for his extreme political views, and is one of the most bold, energetic and aggressive leaders of the Greenback-Labor party, and one of the most able advocates of its doctrines.

Ueorge Maver

Among the former business men of Oshkosh the name of George Mayer stands prominent. He emigrated from Bavaria to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1849, and in 1850, he moved to Oshkosh where he immediately opened a watch-making and jewelry store, in which business he continued until the spring of the year 1879, when he closed out his establishment here and, moved with his family to Cottonwood Falls, Chase County, Kansas, near which place he had purchased a large tract of land for the purpose of stock raising.

His store was the pioneer jewelry store, and was one of five of the surviving firms of tht early day. After the great fire of 1875 he erected his fine store on upper Main, and finished the interior in elegant style, which he filled with an immense stock of jewelry, watches, silver and plated ware, pianos and other musical instruments, making an. imposing display of rich and costly goods, and one which is seldom surpassed by the leading houses of the larger cities. Mr. Mayer was a popular dealer and did a large and successful business, and his many friends here regret his leaving, which is a loss to this city of one of its enterprising business men and one of its best and most useful citizens, who has helped to build it up to its present comely proportions.

Mr. Mayer built two brick stores on Main, Street and an elegant brick residence on Ceape. This is a delightful place with spacious groundsi and commanding a fine view of the lake. A\ view of it and of the jewelry store is given ini this work.

that of the handsome residence of C. W. Felker, on Washington street. This is a most attractive-looking place, with spacious lawn, shaded with fine forest trees. Mr. Felker came to Oshkosh at an early day, and, in 1 856 and '57 was engaged in the publication of a newspaper, the Oshkosh Democrat. He subsequently adopted the profession of the law, in which he has risen to eminence, and is now enjoying a large and lucrative practice. During the war he went to the field, andserved as Captain of Company A, Forty-Eighth Regiment. At its close he resumed the practice of his profession and through his energy, application and natural ability has pushed his way to distinction, and now ranks among the most eminent lawyers of State. Among the public positions he has held is that of City Superintendent of Schools, which he filled with great efficiency.

Hon. H. C. Jewell

H. C.Jewell was born December 181 1, in Salisbury Litchfield County Connecticut, and emigrated to Wisconsin in 1843, settling first in what is now Green Lake County, then apart of Marquette County - there being but eleven families residing at thattime in Marquette County. He was the firstRegisterof Deeds ofthe County, and the second Postmaster. He removed to the Village of Algoma (now included within the city limits of Oshkosh), in 1848, and with his brother, the late G. N. Jewell, engaged in the mercantile and lumber business, which he followed for many years.

He has frequently held offices of trust and has ever been noted for his integrity. Was alderman of the Fifth Ward for seven years, and mayor ofthe City of Oshkosh in 1862, and a member ofthe Legislature in 1867. He has lived to see great changes in Winnebago County; particularly in schools and churches, in beautiful homes, and increased and improved facilities for travel. Then, merchantdise was brought by team over almost impassable roads, from the Lake via Green Bay, Sheboygan or Milwaukee.

Mr. Jewell has been a member ofthe Winnebago County Board for eight successive terms, and for two terms has held the position of chairman of said board.

In 1849 a postofiice was established at the Village of Algoma, and Mr. Jewell was subsequently appointed Postmaster. This office was discontinued in 1856, at which time the village merged into the Fifth Ward of this city.

Peter Nicolal

PETER NICOLAL One ofthe finest places on Otter Street is the handsome residence of Peter Nicolai, a view of which is amon? our illustrations.

Mr. Nicolai is one ofthe financially solid men of this city. He commenced here at a very early day, 1849, as building contractor, which business he followed for five years and has seen this city grow from a little village into its present handsome proportion, and reach the distinction of the second city ofthe State, in wealth and population, and having joined in its fortunes when it was poor he has the satisfaction now of enjoying its prosperity. He was burned out in the great fire of 1859, and again in 1875, and isone of those who largely helped in the rebuilding ofthe city, by furnishing money to those who had not sufficient means to rebuild. Mr. Nicolai is a man of good business capacity and ofthe strictest integrity.

Gustavus Tesch

Among the residences which illustrate this work is that of Gustavus Tesch, on Algoma Street. Mr. Tesch migrated from Germany in 1859, and settled in Oshkosh in that year. On the outbreak of the war he volunteered and served in the field during its continuance. On its conclusion he returned to this city, and shortly afterward engaged in the grocery business, which he has conducted very successfully to the present time. He posesses every qualification for a successful business man; being energetic, prompt, diligent and enterprising, while his pleasing and obliging ways makes him popular with his customers. Gus is one of those who will always give good weight and measure, and his store is the picture of neatness and order. He passed through the severe ordeal of four of the great fires; in each of which his property was totally destroyed. His heavy losses reduced his resources to a very limited amount, but despite of the most disheartening circumstances, he never yielded to discouragement, but manfully struggled against his misfortunes, and is now reaping the reward of his courageous eff'orts; standing on a solid financial basis, and ranking among the sound business men of this city.

Mr. Tesch has a large vinyard, in the culture of which he takes a great interest This is cultivated with the same thoroughness with which he does everything, and the luxuriant growth of the vines, their fruitfulness and thrifty appearance, give every evidence of good management.

Augustus Haight

Street is that of Augustus Haight, and which is one of the illustrations in this work. Mr. Haight came from his native place, Saratoga County, New York, to this city in 1856, and engaged largely in the purchase and sale of pine lands, and in logging operations. Shortly after this a depression in the lumber business occasioned heavy losses to those engaged in that industry, Mr. Haight suffering in common with others; but by energetic effort and good management he recovered from his losses and soon became one of the financially substantial men of this city. Though not a lumber manufacturer he has been connected intimately with that industry, having carried on heavy logging operations and fitted out crews to work on contract.

Mr. Haight has taken a vcr)- active part in the business life of this city, and his pecuniary means have been almost wholly used in helping to carry on its industries.

He is a lawyer by profession, a man of good ability and much culture. He has always taken a great interest in educational affairs, and has been one of the most persistant advocates for enlarged school facilities in this city. He has taken especial pains in the education of his children. In June, of this year, his son James, a native of this place, graduated, atthe age of twenty, in the Cornell University, with the highest honors, receiving the endorsement of the president as one of the best scholars in the institution. He has adopted the profession of the law and gives promise in his industry and talent of attaining eminence.

Among the names mentioned in the preceding pages, in connection with the early history of Oshkosh, some of the following appear more or less conspicuous:

Edward Eastman

A name that occupies a prominent place in that history is that of Edward Eastman. He was one of the pioneer business men, having started the third store in Oshkosh. He was also the first mayor of the city, and among other public positions held that of postmaster. He was highly esteemed in the community, and his name will be held in affectionate and respectful remembrance by the old settlers.

George H. Read

GEORGE H. READ. The present Superintendent of Schools came to this city in 1853, and engaged in the publication of the Oshkosh Courier, of which he was editor for ten years, and took high rank among the ablest writers of the State. His style is peculiarly terse, pointed and comprehensive. He has been closely identified with the interests of the citv as one of its large real estate owners, and has contributed much in building it up. He was a joint owner in three of the additions to the city, and among other buildings erected by him are three brick stores on Main Street.

Mr. Read is now serving his third term as Superintendent of City Schools, a position he fills with the greatest efficiency. His able school reports are distinguished for the ability with which he advocates reform in the present system - claiming that the present higher departments in our public schools detract from the usefulness and capacity of those which are devoted to what are called the common English branches; that the latter departments of the common schools are the only ones available to the masses of the people, and that those ought to be brought up to the Inghcst possible degree of efficieney, instead of having their capacity lessened, in order to create special advantages that can only necessarily be available to those whose means enable them to devote their time to the higher branches. He claims that it is anti-republican to sacrifice the usefulness of the common schools, which are the schools for the people, by using means that could be profitably employed in their behalf for purposes foreign to their object.

Mr. Read has expressed his convictions on this subject in a very emphatic manner; and his reports, which are very ably written, have attracted much attention throughout the State, and have been the subject of very flattering| comment.

He will probably modify his views somewhat;] as he must see when he fully investigates thai subject, that the Normal School is certainly aj powerful adjunct of the common school, whilei^ if some branches were eliminated from thai studies of the High School, it would be mad yet more instrumental in effecting the end an aim of the common-school system.

RICHARD p. EIGHME Came to Oshkosh in 1850, and engaged in the practice of his profession, that of the law, in which he had a large and successfu practice. He has held many important public positions, among others that of representative from this district in the State Legislature, anc city justice, the respective duties of which he performed ably and faithfully.

Theodore Frextz

THEODORE FREXTZ Came here in 1849, and a few years after| w^ard engaged in the compilation of an abstrac of real estate title, and has followed that busi ness to the present time. He has for a long series of years been connected with the eduJ cational interests of the city as school com^ missioner, and is the veteran member of the school board. Mr. Frentz is widely and popularly known, and among his other achievements was that of publishing and editing a paper here at an early day, of which due mention is made in the history of the press. As a compliment to him for his faithful services as school commissioner, the handsome building in the Second Ward is called the Frentz School.

Ansel Jones

ANSEL JONES Is a partner with Mr. Frentz, and compiled the first abstract of real estate title in this county, and is one of the most clear-headed men in this community, and of unquestioned authority in real estate title; a man of fine business ability and of the strictest integrity.

Peter Mccourt

PETER MCCOURT Opened the third clothing store in this place, and in the early day was one of the most enterprising of the business men of Oshkosh, and a devoted friend to the interests of this city. He was eminently successful for many years, but suffered heavily from a series of fires which seriously crippled his resources. He is still in his old business.

Albert Lull

ALBERT LULL Is one of the very early settlers. He came here when the present site of Oshkosh was a w ilderness, with the exception of a few scattered clearings and a half-dozen premature structures. He helped to build the second saw-mill in this place, and was head sawyer in the same, and sawed some of the first lumber manufactured. He subsequently invested largely in real estate, and became one of the prominent and influential men of the city, in which he is to-day a very heavy real estate owner. Mr. Lull took a leading part in the early enterprises which developed the energies of Oshkosh, and has always been a devoted friend to its interests. He was one of the large stockholders in the original Oshkosh & Mississippi Railroad, and labored energetically to further that enterprise, which was, unfortCinately for the interests of the place, nipped in the bud, through adverse circumstances. He has held many important public positions, among other, that of acting County Treasurer. He is a man of great natural ability, and of the best of business qualifications.

Edward Lull

Is another of the old settlers, and a man highly esteemed. He has also held important public positions, and among others, those of Alderman and School Commissioner, and has always proved a faithful and efficient recipient of public trust. He is an influential member of the present Common Council.

Samuel Eckstein

SAMUEL ECKSTEIN Came to Oshkosh in 1849, and opened the second clothing store and merchant tailoring establishment in the place. His name will be found mentioned among the business firms in our early history. He is still doing a large and successful business. His house and that of Hon. S. M. Hay are the only two surviving firms which were doing business here in 1S49. Mr. Eckstein has ever held a high place in the popular estimation, and is one of our most respectable citizens, and one of this city's leading business men. His establishment is one of the popular institutions of the place, and is always well stocked with a large assortment of cloths. Mr. Eckstein is always fortunate in securing the services of the most artistic cutters. Mr. Michael Maloney has officiated in this house, in that capacity, for eight years, and gives the fullest satisfaction to their many customers, in the most recherche fit and style.

The Beckwith House

One of the most popular houses with the traveling public is the Beckwith. It is the largest among the elegant structures of rebuilt Oshkosh, and supplies a want which was long felt in this city, namely, enlarged hotel facilities.

Immediately after the great fire of 1875, Mr. Beckwith commenced the enterprise of constructing this elegant building, and the result is a hotel that will rank with the very first-class houses of the larger cities.

Our splendid lake and yachting facilities and delightful summer climate are attracting the attention of summer tourists, and the Beckwith furnishes the most ample accommodation for the entertainment of guests.

132 feet, and on Algoma of iio. It contains seventy-five rooms, which are high, airy and well ventilated. The house is constructed on the modern hotel principles. The inside finish and embellishments are elegant, the furniture new throughout, and every pains taken to make this house a credit to the city. Mr. Beckwith's pleasant manners and kind attention to his guests, the comforts o'f the house, its scrupulous neatness, and its well spread tables, have already earned for it a wide-spread popularity.

Doctor Ii. B. Dale

Among the most prominent citizens of Oshkosh is Doctor H. B. Dale, the present popular mayor of the city. He moved from Steuben County, New York, his native place, in i860, which was the year he graduated, and immediately entered upon the practice of his profession.

He attained so rapid a popularity here that in 1867 he was elected from his ward, where a strong party majority existed against him, as alderman, and was the first Democrat elected from that ward. At the same election he was elected as city superintendent of schools, and was re-elected for eight consecutive terms. He was then nominated by both political parties for the ninth term, and declined. He proved a most efficient superintendent, as his popularity as such attests, and devoted much of his time in attending to the interests of the schools, which were in the most flourishing condition during his long term of service.

When he commenced there were eighteen teachers, and when he surrendered the office there were fifty-six. The Dale school building, a magnificent brick structure, was named in compliment to him for his long, faithful and competent service. He also received the high compliment of a nomination for State Superintendent of schools, but was defeated with the balance of the Democratic state ticket. Last spring, 1879, he was elected mayor of this city, a position he fills very creditably.

Hon. George Hver

But few men have left a more enduring impression on this city than the late Hon. George Hyer. He was one of the early Western pioneers, and came to Milwaukee in 1836, and was engaged in printing on the first newspaper published in the Territory of Wisconsin. The following year he carried the first mail to the Rock River settlement that was sent west from Milwaukee. In 1838 he set the first type on the Wisconsin Enquirer, the first paper published in Madison. After a long newspaper career, in which he was closely associated with public life, and during which he took a very prominent part in territorial and state affairs, he retired to a farm near Beloit; but longing for his old vocation, he came to Oshkosh in 1867, and purchased the Democrat , refitted the office, and commenced the publication of the Oshkosh Times, which, under his able editorial management, became one of the leading papers of the State.

George Hyer, from his very earliest manhood having been associated with that spirit of enterprise, progress and improvement, for which the early settlers of the State were distinguished, was imbued with that feeling, and soon became recognized, in Oshkosh as one of the champions of public and private enterprise. The Times soon exercised a great influence, and aided very much in awakening a renewed spirit of progress and improvement in this city, with which the name of George Hyer will be long associated. He was a great advocate of a northern railroad - a consumation now reached - and was chiefly instrumental in establishing the Northern State Agricultural and Mechanical Association.

His death, which occured in the spring of 1872, was greatly deplored bj- this community and a wide circle of friends extending throughout the State, and deprived this city of one of its best friends.

Former Editors

Among the former newspaper editors in this city now engaged in other vocations the names of Geo. H. Read, C. R. Nevitt, Geo. Gary, C. W. Felker, Hiram Morley and C. E. Pike, are prominent. Their connection with the press is fully related in the history of the newspaper press of Oshkosh on another page. Of Mr. Read full mention has been made. Mr. Charles Nevitt was his associate in the Courier and the business-manager of that paper, and was one of the chief originators of the Northwestern. He was regarded as one of the best printers in the Northwest, being master of his profession, and was and is now a very active business man.

Hon. Geo. Gary, now County Judge, was for many years in the editorial harness. He was an able writer, and the papers under his management took a high rank among the publications of the State.

Mr. C. E. Pike came to Oshkosh, from Boston, in November, 1859, and joined Mr. Nevitt in the publication of the Nortlnvestern, and was editor-in-chief of that paper during the first three years of the war - a stormy period for a newspaper editor. Mr. Pike proved to ; be a very polished and vigorous writer, and j made his paper a very able champion of the measures of the Government. In the fall of 1864 he ended his connection with the Northwestern and shortly afterwards removed from this city. In the spring of 1878 he returned to Oshkosh, and engaged in the practice of his profession - that of the law. Mr. Pike is a man of fine natural abilities cultivated by a liberal education, foreign travel and wide experience, with a fine address and pleasing manners.

Hiram Morley, although mentioned as a former editor is still in his old vocation, and is now editor of the Oshkosh Standard. He s one of the earlier settlers and came to reside in Oshkosh in 1848, at a time when the site of this city was covered with trees and stumps. His connection with the early newspaper press is fully related in a separate article. As will be seen, he was engaged here in the publication of papers in 1849-50-51, at which time he removed to Fond du Lac, where he published a paper until 1863. In 1863, he becameoneof the proprietors of the Oshkosh Courier, and in 1 864 merged that paper into the Northwestern and joined in the publication of the latter. He has held many public positions in this city, among others that of alderman for five years, and member of the Board of Supervisors. He is a master of his profession, and has a wide circle of friends.

Jere Crowley will be remembered by the old settlers. He edited the Courier in the first years of its existence, and after he sold it to Read & Nevitt, went to Menasha, where he published the Advocate. Jere was at home in a printing office, "native and to the manor born, " and knew how to get out a " live paper. " In 1878 and 1879 he was Assistant Attorney General of the State, and subsequently went to Manitowoc, where he published a newspaper up to the time of his death. Jere was warmly attached to a wide circle of friends, who will ever hold in fond remembrance his many good qualities.

Charles G. Finney, now of California, and whose connection with the Oshkosh Northwestern is related in the article on that subject, conducted that paper very ably. He met with an unfortunate accident through the premature discharge of a gun, which badly shattered his hand and left his life in a very precarious condition. He is a man of very warm attachments and had a host of friends here, by whom he is held in kindly remembrance for his many genial and generous qualities.

Other Early Settlers

Among the early business firms of Oshkosh will be found the name of M. J. Williams, who opened the first drug store, and who is now one of the surviving firms of that day, and still as flourishing and popular as ever.

Alexander Read, who kept a dry goods store, and afterwards was clerk of the County Board, and now deputy clerk of the court, is a man very popular with the early settlers.

Henry Hicks, who in the olden time was one of the leading business men, is one of the numerous instances of those who have been overtaken by reverses - a kind neighbor and true friend, and liked by all who know him.

Among the early settlers George Cameron's name appears conspicuously. He is still here and maintains his old-time popularity; he has held the office of assessor for several terms and has lately resumed his old business, having this year erected a large livery and sale stable.

William D. Stroud is one of the early settlers. He moved with his family from Vergennes, Vermont, to this place in 1 851, and purchased a tract of 160 acres, now within the city limits, on which he resided till 1866, when he sold the same and moved into his handsome residence in the Third Ward. He has contributed his quota towards building up the place, and is one of its most respected citizens.

Among the physicians of the early day Doctor Schenich will be long remembered for his kindness of heart and the many generous qualities that so endeared him to all who knew him.

Doctors A. P. Barber, Thomas Russell and A. B. Wright, old practitioners, are still here and in the possession of a large and successful practice.

Among the attorneys of the early day still here are the names of W. R. Kennedy, who has for several terms held the position of city attorney; A. A. Austin, who came here in 1849, and has held for several terms the office of district attorney, and G. W. Washburn, who also came in 1849 and held many important public positions, among others that of judge of this judicial circuit.

Among those who have disappeared from the arena of human action are the names of C. Coolbaugh, who long enjoyed a successful practice; L. P. Crary, one of the most eloquent speakers in the State in his day, and C. R. Weisbrod, who also held many important public positions, and was a man of great influ-

A. B. Bowen, still a resident and the occupant of one of the most beautiful places in the city, was among the earlier residents, and one of the most enterprising of the business men of the place.

Matt Kremer, now in the grocery business, came here in 1852. He is still flourishing and always has a kind spot in his heart for the old settlers.

William Greenwood, who has just returned here from Chicago, and commenced the practice of his profession, first came to this county in 1850. Reverses overtook him, but full of energy, even in his old age, he is trying to redeem his fallen fortunes, and his old friends are glad to welcome him back.

" Bone " Millard , the pioneer of the Wolf River pineries, is still here, and is the same energetic and generous-hearted man and kind friend that he was thirty years ago.

A. F. David, now a resident of Oregon, was one of the leading business men of the early days, and very popular in his time. He was at one time sheriff of this county.

A. K. Osborne, late United States Collector and now a resident of this place, is one of the early settlers. He has long held important public positions, among others. Judge of the Waupaca County Court, member of the State Legislature and United States Collector. He is a man of the strictest integrity, and has proved faithful to every trust reposed in his hands.

James Murdoch, Doctor Henning, and other early residents, have been fully mentioned in the pages on the early history of Oshkosh. Other prominent business and professional names of the present time will be mentioned in connection with the classified business directory in the subsequent pages of this work.