Winnebago County, Wisconsin - Chapter with an unread heading (no. 44 of those read), 1880

Chapter with an unread heading (no. 44 of those read)

The Early History of Neenah - The Government Agency, for the Civilizing of the Menomonees - A Mill, Shops and Block Houses, Built in 1835-36, at Winnebago Rapids, the Present Site of Neenah - Harrison Reed, in 1844 Purchases the Site, 562,44-100 Acres, and all the Improvements on the Same, from the Government - In 1S43, ^'r. Geo. H. Mansur and Family Arrived, and Became the First White Family Permanently Settled within the Present Limits of Neenah - In 1845, Gov. Doty Builds His House on the Island - Gorham P. Vining, George Harlow, Ira Baird and the Rev. O. P. Clinton, Settle in Neenah, during the Same Year - First Birth - First Marriage - First Death - First Religious Services - The Joneses Become Proprietors - More New Comers - In 1S47, a Company Chartered for the Improvement of the Water-power - In 1847, First Village Plat Recorded, by Harrison Reed - In Same Year Mr. Ladd Erects the Winnebago Hotel - The Firm of Jones & Yale open a Store, 1S47 - I" 1848, the Kimberley's Purchase Property, and Commence Improvements - 1850, Board of Village Trustees F]lecled - Kimberley Build the Pioneer Flouring Mill - Canal Lock Completed - Steamers Barlow and Jenny Lind Built - Another Flouring Mill Completed - Saw Mill Constructed - Another Manufacturing Establishment in Operation, and Two More Flouring Mills Built - The Village Plats of Winnebago Rapids and Neenah[Consolidated under the Corporate Name of Neenah - In 1856, the First Passage of a Steamer Between Lake Winnebago and Green Bay, was Made - The Aquilla Passed Through the Neenah Lock.

( ) L L back the wheels of Time less than half a century, and we find the present site of the City of Neenah in the quiet possession of the Indian, " native, and to the manor born. " In all negotiations between France and England, England and the United States, quitclaims to a vast extent of territory were passed from one to the other, which were simply intended to decide which one of these great powers sliould possess the exclusive right to rob the native of his heriditary title to the soil. The United States, fully vested with this power, adopted a scheme in 183 i for the civilizing, Christianizing and general improvement of the Menomonce tribe, who had selected this place for their principal village, and who were owners of the contiguous country. - 1

In pursuance of this plan, a grist mill, sawmill, blacksmith shop and Feveral block houses about sixteen by twenty feet in size, were erected in 1835-6; also, five larger block houses for the use and occupation of the officers and teachers in charge, the smaller ones for Indian residences, and models after which the Indians were to build for themselves as required.

One of the large and one of the small houses were built on the point near the head of the channel and the old Council Tree; a large one on the lake shore at the east end of Wisconsin Avenue, long the residence of Harrison Reed, one near the grist mill, vi'hich has given place to the Winnebago Paper Mills; another on the Blair farm, and the other on the Neff farm; the last two being near the mounds of Buttes des Morts, on the west shore of the lake, the smaller ones being located conveniently within the same area. Upon the completion of these buildings in 1836, Clark Dickinson, Nathaniel Perry, Robert Irwin and Mr. Baird, father of the late Hon. Henry S. Baird, were appointed to supply the place of teachers in farming; Colonel David Johnson as miller, Joseph Jourdan and a man named Hunter as blacksmiths; a clergyman by the name of Gregory, and his brother, for teachers of religion and morals.

Water, for supplying the mills, was provided by the construction of a wing dam some two hundred feet in length. The Indians, informed that they were at liberty to occupy the smaller houses, at once removed the floors and pitched their wigwams on the ground within, or erecting wigwams outside, stabled their ponies within.

For a long time previous to 1833, the Winnebago Indians had owned and occupied the Island and a small tract north of the Lake and east of Fox river. (See Indian boundary lines.) On the Island was situated their headquarters, the village of "Four Legs," a prominent Winnebago chief, commmanding this channel and where tribute was often exacted for passing. This had given it the name of "Winnebago Rapids," which naturally attached to the soil. These two prominent villages being separated only by the stream, the Menomonees and Winnebagoes had long lived on the most intimate and amicable relations - often intermarrying. In September, 1836, at the annual payment, then held at Cedar Rapids, the Menomonees ceded to the United States all lands lying within the present limits of Winnebago County (and much more, see Indian boundary lines), except that portion previously ceded by the Winnebagoes, In 1839, this treaty having been ratified, orders were issued to Surveyor

General Ellis, and this acquisition was surveyed, and October 2nd, 1843, all of Township 20, north. Range 17, east, lying west of Lake Buttes des Morts, was offered for sale, excepting and reserving such as was declared connected with the improvements; and the Christianizing enterprise was abandoned,

Harrison Reed Purchases The Site First Settler In Neenah

By an act of Congress approved March 3, 1843, the war department was authorized to advertise and sell this reservation, with the improvements, utensils, etc. In the meantime Mr. Harrison Reed visited this locality, in the winter of 1842-3, and became so favorably impressed with its advantages that he came again in the spring for the purpose of selecting a site and establishing a permanent home - leaving his family in Milwaukee. Finding this reservation advertised he sent in a bid, which was approved by the Secretary of War in 1844. This sale included 562 44-100 acres of land, and the price paid was $4,760. When Mr. Reed came in the spring of 1843 lie was accompanied by Charley Wescott, now residing at Shawano, who worked for Mr. Reed that season, and was succeeded, in 1844, by Gil Brooks. Mr. Reed brought his family here in the winter of 1843-4. Mr. Reed's purchase included 562 44-100 acres of land, all buildings, a quantity of logs and timber, wagons, carts, farming implements, a supply of building material and a stock of iron in the blacksmith shop. His residence was the block house on the lake shore, which he occupied for many years. FIRST SETTLER IN NEENAH In June, 1843, George H. Mansur left Buffalo with his family on the steamer Black Hawk, owned and commanded by Captain P. Hotaling, and coasting along the lakes, arri\-ed at Green Bay in the latter part of that month. With the intention of running the rapids of Fox River to Lake Winnebago, the Black Hawk was taken to the foot of the Rapids at Grand Kaukauna. Here, her wheel, a stern wheel, was taken off, placed upon the shore and covered with a large canvas, and Mansur's family moved into the wheel, where they resided for three weeks. Meanwhile, the boat was drawn out on rollers, and an attempt made to convey her around the rapids in this manner; but after progressing about three-fourths of a mile the project was abandoned, the boat restored to her natural element, and the wheel replaced. Captain Hotaling and Mansur now started to make a trip around Lake Winnebago, and on their return by Winnebago Rapids, met Mr. Reed, who wishing to obtain the services of just such men, soon induced Mansur to locate here. After making arrangements for a Durham boat, whenever he should send for it, Mr. Mansur, with Captain HotaHng returned to Kaukauna, arriving about noon. About the middle of the afternoon he sent his son, Jeff, then a lad of thirteen years, back to Mr. Reed's for the boat. Jeff started out through the woods, without a road except the Indian trail which frequently branched to the right or left, barefooted and alone, but was soon overtaken by Captain Powell and some one else on horseback. Inquiring the way of them, he found their destination was Winnebago Rapids, and at once resolved to keep them in sight, which he succeeded in doing, and reached his destination before night. The ne.xt morning he was fitted out with a Durham boat manned by seven Indians, with which he arrived safely at Kaukauna, where the family effects were soon loaded, including one additional member in the person of Esther, a daughter born July 17th, during their sojourn at Kaukauna, Before leaving this point, it may be well to state that they here found the families of George Law and Augustin Grignon, old French traders from whom they received very hospitable treatment in the absence of Mr. Mansur. Poling and pulling the boat, they reached the foot of the Grand Chute, a perpendicular fall of seven feet; but the rock having been worn away near the shore, unladen Durham boats were drawn through the rapids by the use of tow-ropes. Here they camped for the night, unloaded their cargo, carried it along the bank past the rapids, towed the boat to a point above, and reloaded. Leaving their encampment in the morning, they arrived at Mr. Reed's, the block house before mentioned, during the day, August 9, 1843, the first white family permanently settled within the present limits of the City of Neenah.

Mr. Mansur was soon set to work repairing the old mills, and managed them until the spring of 1844. April 10, 1844, he made the claim of his present farm. Thus early in the season, the family inform me that the wild plum trees were in full bloom. There being an endless profusion of this fruit, and the crabapple along the shore of the lake and rivers, they became, when in blossom, very conspicuous.

In June, following, Mr. Mansur removed his family to this claim, where he has ever since resided, and claims he can still hoe a man's row, while Jeff, the lad of thirteen summers, has developed a muscle capable of sustaining twenty-five pounds, in each hand, at arm's length, but Jeff has always been careful of his strength, reserving it to fill his father's place.

August 28, Gorham P. Vining and George Harlow declared their intention of becoming residents, and, by an arrangement with Mr. Reed, made some repairs on the mills and wingdam, and run them through the winter, and are now residents of the town. They kept bachelor's hall the first winter in the blockhouse near the mill.

Ira Baird and wife also arrived in December, and in the same month Rev. O. P. Clinton made a short visit, but of sufficient length to decide upon this as a place for future residence. In March, 1846, he removed his family to one of the block-houses near the Council Tree. In the fall, finding the other house vacant and more comfortable for a winter's campaign, he made some repairs, and moved his family into it.

Mr. Clinton settled here under the auspices of the American Board of Home Missions; his circuit for that year included Oshkosh, Rosendale, Springvale, Waukau, Rushford, Strong's Landing, now^ Berlin, Fond du Lac and Neenah.

The payment for Mr. Reed's purchase from the United States having become due, and being unable of his own means to pay the required amount, he, through the instrumentality of Mr. Clinton, had opened negotiations wMth Mr. Harvey Jones, of Gloversville, New York. L. H. Jones, abrother of Harvey, and Perrin Yale, a nephew in business at Waukesha, acting in the capacity of agents for Harvey Jones, came here in the spring and exam ined the property. Upon a favorable report from these agents, Mr. Reed went to Glovers \'ille, where an arrangement was made by which Mr. Jones furnished the money, and Mr. Reed, in July, satisfied the demand. The terms of this contract will, probably, never be known, as the statements in reference to it are extremely conflicting.

In March, James Ladd, Samuel Mitchell and L. S. Wheatley arrived, the former locating west of Lake Buttes des Mort, and the two latter near Mr. Reed's.

First Marriage, Birth, Death

The first marriage occurring within the present limits of the city was at one of the blockhouses near the Council Tree, the residence of Elder Clinton, in IVIay. The victims were John F. Johnston and Jeanette Finch, a sister of Mrs. Clinton, the Elder officiating. The first white child born within the present limits of the city, and the first female in the town, was a daughter of Harrison and A. Louisa Reed, in August, and was named Nina, a near approach to Neenah.

The first death was that of Stephen Hartwell, September fourth, at one of the block houses near the Council-tree, the remains with those of Jenson, who died the next day, (see Town of Menasha,) were buried neartheButtes des Morts mounds.

Religious Services

RELIGIOUS SERVICES. There seems to be a difference of opinion as to the time " regular " religious services were instituted. During the stay of Mr. Gregory, United States Missionary to the Menomonees, divine services was no doubt conducted by him. It is also stated that a religious meeting was held at the house of Harrison Reed in 1845, by a Methodist Minister, who in his travels happened to stop at Mr. Reeds, but it is probably safe to say that the first " regular " meeting was conducted by the Rev. O. P. Clinton, at his residence, the Sabbath after his arrival, in March 1846, which was attended by Governor Doty and wife, Harrison Reed and wife and his aunt, a Mrs. Griswald, Thomas Burdick, John F". Johnston, Henry Finch, Jeanette Finch and Mr. and Mrs. Clinton, a large majority ol the settlers at that time.

Harvey Jones

In September, Mr. Harvey Jones came on, with his wife and son, Gilbert C. , now a resident of the city, and for the first time examined his purchase. Remaining here during the winter, he employed several men in making improvements about the mills. Nelson Danforth was employed as miller.

Loyal H. Jones and Ferine Yale seem to have settled here during the winter, also Asa Jones, another brother who became a prominent resident, for many years occupying a farm near the West shore of Buttes des Morts Lake.

Lands Come Into Market

During the year, the lands in this vicinity on the South and West were placed in market, and many tracts claimed or entered, initiating the first settlement for purposes of agriculture.

New Comers

NEW COMERS. Among the new comers of 1846, were Lucius A. Donaldson, Cornelius Northrop, Corydon Northrop, Phillip Brien and Milton Huxley, with their families. John F. Johnson, Henry C. Finch, Stephen Hartwell, A. B. Brien, and one Jensen.

Origin Of Name

February 8, 1847, by an act of the Legislature, approved this date, a company was chartered, consisting of Governor Doty, his son Charles, Curtis Reed, Harrison Reed, and Harvey Jones, with authority to construct and maintain a dam across each channel. It would seem that at this time the parties were all mutually interested in producing a waterpower at the foot of Lake Winnebago, that should be second to none on this continent, all advantages considered; and there is little doubt that if amicable relations had continued, the energies of the entire company would have been devoted to that end, and the improvements confined to the South channel, the State canal included, except so far as might be necessary, from the nature of the case, to maintain a dam on the North Side. The charter obtained, differences at once sprung up between the parties; and the Doty's with Curtis Reed, were driven to the North Side, when Jones and Reed, unable to work together for their mutual benefit, the latter was compelled to follow. Jones on one side, the Doty's and Reeds on the other, were soon arrayed in perfect hostility. Law-suits were at once instituted, implicating the title on the South Side and were for years an obstacle to investments.

In the fall of 1847, Daniel Priest put in operation a carding-machine, which was run for several years, when Mr. Priest, having become a resident of Menasha, removed the carding-mill to that side. This was the pioneer institution of its kind in this county and vicinity and was the nucleus of the present Menasha Woolen Mills. The Town of Neenah was organized February 11, 1847, (see Town of Neenah). This reminds us of an old story, occasionally revived relating to this word " Neenah; " to the effect that Governor Doty once asked an Indian Chief, pointing to the river. " What is that ? " The chief replied, supposing that Doty meant the water, "Neenah" - Hence the name of river and town. We wish to say that no white man better understood the language, customs or character of these people than Governor Doty, and to accuse him of ignorance of the name of

September 8, 1847, the first village plat of Neenah was recorded by Harrison Reed, proprietor. The dam was built this fall, though not completed; in fact it was not completed for many years. It being difficult to obtain boarding-places for the men engaged on the dam, and a necessity existing for a house of public entertainment, Mr. James Ladd, who had, in October previous, taken up his residence in the Government block-house, which stood on the present Blair farm, was induced to erect a building that would serve the double purpose; and proceeded at once to put up a building which might be considered a very good barn or an inferior residence. Choosing it for the latter purpose, he accommodated fifty boarders and all travelers that might apply. His son Christopher informs us that at one time there were thirteen different languages spoken under that roof. Where is Babel now ? This was the first frame building erected in Neenah, except the Government mills. In the fall, Mr. Ladd commenced the erection of the Winnebago Hotel, now standing on the southwest corner of Walnut Street and Wisconsin Avenue. This he completed the same season, converting the boarding-house into a barn - it having been located and built with that intention. For obtaining lime, Mr, Ladd built a kiln in the bend of the river, above the house, took the stone from the bed of the river and burned them. When the old Government buildings were erected, in 1835-6, a brick yard was started at the foot of the island, and here he dug out enough for chimneys. To supply the lumber and shingles, pine logs were cut, in the northwestern part of the pfesent Town of Menasha, taken to the old Government mill and sawed, or shaved into shingles.

Early in the season Mr. Clinton, with the assistance of some members of his congregation, fitted up a log house, built by Smith Moores, in 1845, for religious services. Here Miss Caroline Northrup opened a private school, and in the fall, the first public school was inaugurated, with one Lambert for teacher, an itinerant dancing, singing and general teacher, but after about a month, an extended furlough was granted him, and his place supplied by Wm. Dcnnison. The following summer Miss Northrup officiated as teacher.

Moores, whose name seems somewhat connected with those of Col. Fuller, Robert Irwin, Archibald Caldwell, and probablj' some others, who were located here at an early day, as Indian traders, without any intention of making this a permanent residence, excepting perhaps Moores, who might have become more fully identified with the place, but for his death, which occurred in 1851, from small pox, contracted at the Indian payment that fall, instead of 1853, as has been represented.

First Store Opened

During this season, 1847, Jones & Yale already mentioned, opened a stock of general merchandise and Indian goods, in one of the block-houses, which the early settlers found a great convenience, and which was the first mercantile undertaking, except such as had been established for Indian traffic.

From this time the new arrivals, with the many changes, came crowding upon each other in such rapid succession, that we are unable to give a detailed account of each and every person, and event, but shall endeavor to record each as fully and accurately as space and circumstances will admit. Thus far we have endeavored to give a history of the increase in population, the preparations for an extended business in the future, and the disadvantages encountered. If any names have been omitted it has been wholly unintentional, on our part, and in many instances they will probably be found in connection with the towns with which they afterwards became more closely identified.

In the spring of 1848, Harvey Jones became a permanent resident, having, as proprietor, caused a plat of the village of Winnebago Rapids, in the town of Neenah, to be recorded January 6, 1848. Soon after his arrival, he commenced the erection of a sawmill, Charles Lindsly being associated with him in the enterprise.

In June, Mr. Harvey L. Kimberly came here and made an agreement with Mr. Jones, which ga\'e him the privilege of purchasing two lots in each block of the plat of Winnebago Rapids.

Mr. Kimberly now returned to his home in New Haven, Connecticut, and at once made arrangements accordingly. Forming a partnership with his brother, John R. Kimberly, then a resident of Troy, New York, their native place, and leaving their families behind, they arrived at Neenah in September, having shipped a stock of merchandise from Buffalo to Green Bay, bj' schooner, which they char- tered in connection with Jones & Yale, for that purpose. On reaching Neenah, they then announced their readiness to fulfill their agreement with Jones, and carry out their business intentions, but here a difficulty arose. Whenever they made a selection of any lots, they were either disposed of or reserved. At last, unable to obtain suitable lots for their purpose, they began to talk of accepting some very favorable offers proposed by Reed at Menasha, which soon produced its effect, and they were permitted to make their own selection, for building a residence, a store and mill. It now became necessary for one of them to go to Green Bay, to forward their goods, shipped from Buffalo, Jones & Yale were also expecting the arrival of their goods at the Bay.

H. L. Kimbeily and L. H. Jones, accordingly, started on horse back over the only road - the old Government road - cut through the woods many years prior, and now grown full of underbrush, leaving a mere bridle path. Mr. Jones being obliged to return home immediately, Mr. Kimberly remained to look after the interest of both, in the coming freight. At the end of a weeks delay, the necessary arrangements completed, Mr. Kimberly set out on his return, accompanied by M. L. Blood, then proprietor of the Astor House, at the Bay, bound for Grand Chute. Arriving at the present site of Appleton, they found John F. Johnston, before mentioned, living in a board shanty, the only resident of the place. This being the point of Mr. Blood's destination, and unable to find lodging for both, Mr. Kimberly was advised, and in fact compelled, to push on a mile and a half to a Mr. Muich's. Scarcely had he resumed his way, whca the sky became overcast, and he found himself in almost total darkness, obliged to depend entirely upon the instinct of his horse, v.hich at least brought him to a barway at t'le road side. Opening this, and unable to see anything, he again seated himself in the saddle with unlimited confidence in his four footed companion and soon found himself at the house, where he was informed that they had no ;'.ccommodation for man or beast, but, pointing to a light at Mr. Crafts, some half a mile across the field, he could probably find what he was in search of, there. Making his way tow ard the light, he met with no better success, but was advised to make another effort at Murche's. Retracing his steps, he this time found Mr. Murch, who granted his request, and entertained him with perfect pioneer hospitality.

On the arrival of the goods they were displayed in a building erected for the purpose, that year, by Benjamin Paddock, who occupied the upper story as a residence, situated across the street from the present barrel factory, and which may be seen at the present time.

Manufacturing Enterprises

S. R. Kellogg also came in the spring, and " viewing the prospect o'er " with very satisfactory results, returned for his family, with which he returned in August, accompanied by Mr. Benjamin Simmons.

In the mean time Lucius A. Donaldson and John B. Lajest had commenced the erection of a building, on the water-power, near where Patton's paper mill now stands, for a planing mill, sash, door and blind factory. Messrs. Kellogg & Simmons, owners of machinery for the manufacture of bedsteads and chairs, soon after formed a partnership with Donaldson & Lajest, setting up their machinery in the same building, and the entire business was conducted under the firm name of Donaldson, Lajest & Co. This was the first building completed on the water power, always excepting the Government enterprise, and was also occupied by a wool-carding machine, owned and operated by Daniel Priest, which had been running in another building.

More Arrivals

Captain J. M. Ball, born at Southboro, Worcester County, Massachusetts, in 1816, removed to Boston in 1834, to Chicago in 1847, and to Neenah in the spring of 1848.

Transportation Facilities

At this time, and extending back as far as the memory of man, the great thoroughfare for all territory lying contiguous to the Fox, the Wolf and Wisconsin rivers, was via. Green Bay, along the Fox Riv^r, by Durham boats. These boats were from eighty to one hundred feet in length, decked over for the protection of their cargo-, and would carry from fifteen to twenty-five tons. They were propelled usually by four, but sometimes six men, with setting poles, and a helmsman. Tow ropes were used whenever occasion required the passage of any of the numerous rapids of the river, and in such cases they were unloaded and their freight rolled or hauled around the rapids; the usual way, however, being to run from Green Bay to Kaukauna, unload and return, leaving their freight to be transported around the rapids, when it was taken on another boat which proceeded to the next rapid, unloaded, and loading with a cargo destined for the opposite direction, returned. Wm. H. Bruce, of Green Bay, seems to have been the first to engage in this enterprise on private account, establishing a line from Green Bay to Fort Winnebago. Another line was eventually started, by Daniel Whitney, also an early resident of Green Bay. Soon after Captain Ball arrived at Neenah, he contracted with Mr. Bruce to run that part of the route between Grand Chute and Neenah, including the portage at the latter point. Large quantities of flour were at this time sent from Mackford, Dartford, Kingston and Neenah, to the fisheries and pineries of Green Bay and the East.

Accessions To The Population

In 1853, Captain Ball was elected Jrreasurer of the town of Neenah, which office he held until 1855, when he became associated with another pioneer, an employe in the Bruce line, Reuben Doud, in the transportation between the head of steamboat navigation, at Kauk'auna, and steamboat facilities at Menasha, employing one hundred teams, which made daily trips both ways.

In 1856, Captain Ball was elected chairman of the Town Board of Supervisors, and in 1867, County Treasurer, and was re-elected in 1859. He is now a resident of Oshkosh.

In 1849, Hugh Sherry, Charles A. Leavens, Marvin R. Babcock, Robert Hold, Melancthon Burroughs, Edwin Wheeler and N. S. Emmons, became residents.

In March 1849, Mr. D. D. Uodge located here, purchasing the corner now occupied by Pettibone block, where he erected a hotel known as " Dodge's Hotel, " which was destroyed by fire in 1852. Jones and Yale also built a large frame building, still standing, on the corner opposite and directly East of the Winnebago Hotel, this they occupied for mercantile purposes, the second story was fitted up and long Occupied as a place for | religious worship. This building has since ! undergone many changes, and served many ! purposes.

A building known as the Old Foundry was 1 erected on the water-power this year, by Giles ] S. Olin, and when completed, supplied with ! the necessary machinery for a foundry and I machine shop. I

Death Ok Hakvev Jones. I.

November 8, 1849, occurred the death of | Harvey Jones, principal proprietor of the place, leaving, so far as known, no will or provision for ,the future management of his i estate, which consequently fell to three minor I heirs. This with the pendinglaw-suits, proved a death-blow to further substantial progress of this primitive settlement for a time, and greatly retarded its growth for many years. Mr. Jones, although unsuccessful in ingratiating himself with those mutually interested, had before his death made extensive arrangements for the improvement of the water-power and the place generally.

The location of the State canal had during the summer been made upon the other side, but a canal being necessary for a supply of water to the mills, he had determined to construct it large enough for purposes of navigation, with the necessary lock to overcome the fall between the lakes.

IMPROVEMENTS. During this fall, 1849, Messrs J. R. and H. L. Kimberly commenced the erection of a dwelling and the brick store, still extant, on the corner opposite and directly North of the old Winnebago Hotel building, now along side the railroad track. Robert Hold established himself in the furniture business. A little later in the year and near its close, was laid the keel for the steamboat Feytona, on the present stave yard, which was completed in spring of 1850, the second steamboat known to these waters, and for many years the favorite.

Winnebago Rapids Incorporated

April 10, 1850, the village of Winnebago Rapids was incorporated by the Circuit Court of Winnebago County, and M. N. Bosworth, E. B. Ranney and J. Keyes, probably Joseph Keyes, Inspectors of Election of the Town of Neenah, appointed inspectors of an election to be held, for the purpose of submitting to a vote of the people the question for and against incorporation, pursuant to chapter fifty-two ofthe Revised Statutes.

This order of incorporation may be found recorded in the County Registers office, volume H. of mortgages, on page four hundred and seventy six, under date of March 15th 1851.

We find no record ofthe election mentioned, or of the election of the village officers, although such elections undoubtedly occurred, as a record exists of the proceedings of the Board of Trustees of Winnebago Rapids, at office of J. B. Hamilton, June 11, 1850, at half-past seven o'clock. Present - Smith Moores, president; D. D. Dodge, A. B. Brien, J. S. Bloom, L. H. Jones and H. L. Kimberly, trustees. J. B. Hamilton was by the' board unanimously elected clerk and Robert Thompson, marshal. At an adjourned meeting, June 17, Ferine Yale appeared and took the oath as trustee, and was elected village treasurer. At a meeting, July 5, the American half-dollar was adopted as the seal of the corporation.

Village Officers, Trustees

In 1851, Smith Moores was re-elected president, but it was soon discovered that the proceedings at the organic election were somewhat informal, and the incorporation, therefore, invalid; this was wholly ignored until 1856, when the village was re-organized, as hereafter e.xplained, with the following officers: J. B. Hamilton, president; A. G. LaGrange, clerk; J. R. Kimberly, Jeremiah Cummings, Ed Smith, D. R. Fangborn, H. O. Crane and A. H. Cronkhite, trustees.

In 1859, D. C. Van Ostrand, president; Moses Hooper, clerk; JohnW. Williams, Newell Demerrit, Abner Smith, O. T. Walker, Jno. A. Welch and L. Milton Marsh, trustees. Two hundred and sixty-one votes were cast at this election.

In 1 861, Edwin L. Hubbard, president; I. W. Hunt, clerk; C. J. Fackard, P. R. Williams, Hugh McGregor, E. F. Marsh, James Smith and Charles A. Leavens, trustees.

In 1862, Charles A. Leavens, president; Samuel Roberts, clerk; I. L. Doton, Hugh McGregor, John Jamison, John Hunt, Hiram Shoemaker and Theodore Brown, trustees;

In 1863, Charles A. Leavens president; H. P. Leavens clerk; Hugh McGregor, John Jamison, I. L. Doton, Lovel Stowe, John R. Ford and Henry Wildfang, trustees.

In 1866, Samuel Galentine, president; W. W. Daggett, clerk; Henry Clark, Alexander Billstein, R. D. Torrey, Robert Hold, C. B. Manville and Alexander Moore, trustees.

In 1867, Samuel Galentine, president; W. W. Daggett, clerk; W. B. M. Young, Newell Demerritt, G. C. Jones, John Bergstrom, S. E. Ford and A. E. Cross, trustees.

In 1868, J. N. Stone, president; W. W. Daggett, clerk; G. C. Jones, Henry Clark, Hugh McGregor, John Bergstrom, W. P. Peckham and A. K. Moore, trustees.

In 1869, Wm. Pitt Feckham, president; W. W. Daggett, clerk; D. C Van Ostrand, Hugh McGregor, Alexander Billstein, M. Hayward, John Bergstrom and John Hunt, trustees.

In 1870, Alex. Billstein, president; W. W. Daggett, clerk; Hugh McGregor, John R. Davis, A. H. F. Krueger, A. E. Cross, Martin Gavin and Evan Johnson, trustees.

In 1871, Robert Shiells, president; D. E. Markham, clerk; Hugh McGregor, Theodore Brown, Franklin Fickard, D. L. Kimberly, A. E. Cross and Harold Nelson, trustees. Four hundred and thirty-two votes were cast at this election.

In 1872, Alex. Billstein, president; D. E. Markham, clerk; Martin Gavin, A. E. Cross, M. E. Sorley, Theodore Brown, Daniel Barnes and S. G. Kellogg, trustees.

Miscellaneous

The Cronkhite warehouse was built in 1850, on, or very near, the site of the present barrel works, and was burned in the spring of 1864, or 1865.

A telegraph line was also constructed from Fond du Lac to Green Bay, with a local office in the Jones and Yale store already mentioned. This line was built and supplied on what was considered the strictest principles of economy, running nearly its entire length through a dense forest; the tops of trees were cut off and the wire passed from tree to tree, but in the absence of trees, poles were substituted, the average time required for the transmission of a message being greater than by stage, with an even chance that it would remain tangled among the tree tops along the way. The writer having occasion to communicate with Fond du Lac, endeavored for a whole day to get a message over the line. Failing in this, he took the stage at two o'clock the next morning at the old Winnebago Hotel, Dud Cronkhite, proprietor, and reaching Oshkosh at eight o'clock, went immediately to the telegraph office, and asked the telegraph operator if he could get a message to Fond du Lac. He replied, "Yes, if I can get the d - d machine thawed out."

The subscriber took his breakfast in time to continue his journey to Fond du Lac, dehberating upon the convenience and importance of telegraphy, for which he had ample time, arriving at Fond du Lac at dark. The machine was not thawed out when we returned, and the line became inoperative in 1852.

During this year the Kimberlys completed their residence and store, and occupied them both. They also commenced the erection of the pioneer flouring mill, ever since known as the "Neenah Mills." The timber, white oak, for the frame, was cut on the north shore of Lake Winnebago, for other parties who failed to take it, when it was purchased for these mills, anddrawn on the ice to their place. The machinery was shipped from the East, via Green Bay, and the entire work superintended by H. A. Burts, millwright. It was completed the next year, and operated by S. G. Burdick, head miller. Running for a long time under the management of the original owners, H. L Kimberly at last became sole owner, who leased it for a few years, after which it became the property of his son, D. L. Kimberly, who has successfully conducted it for several years. It contains five runs of stones, and daily performs its allotted task, having been lately overhauled and rebuilt.

The death of Harvey Jones necessitated the appointment of administrators, and L. H. Jones and John R. Kimberly were soon chosen; but Kimberly refusing to serve, another was appointed, Erastus W. Drury, of Fond du Lac. L. H. Jones was also- appointed guardian of the heirs.

The canal lock V;'as commenced this year, 1850, under the administration of L. H. Jones, Marvin R. Babcock, contractor. The Jones' saw mill was completed this year, and purchased by Robert Hold, Wm. L. Lindsley and Asa Jones.

The frames for the steamer Van Ness Barlow were also set up on the shore of Lake Buttesdes Morts, for Townsend Brothers, who completed her in the summer of 185 1, and run her on that lake the balance of the season.

The bridge leading to the Island was also built, and the road across the Island cut out ; but the corresponding bridge across the north channel was not completed until 1852.

In the spring of 1852, the lock being completed, the Barlow was taken through as soon as the ice disappeared, an upper cabin added, and she was run this season on the Fox river above Lake Winnebago.

A building was erected at the south end of the bridge and east of Cedar Street, by John and Eben Welch, and supplied with barrel machinery, which proving unsuccessful, was replaced for a lathe for turning wooden bowls, a planing mill, and, at last, sash, door and blind machinery.

Improved Transportation Facilities

The plank-road, completed this year from Menasha to Kaukauna, added greatly to the shipping facilities of both Neenah and Menasha. Connecting with steamboat navigation at both extremities, it soon superseded the line of Durham boats, which are now known only in the recollections of old settlers. This was the first passable road to any place.

There is, perhaps, no one obstacle so difficult to overcome in the settlement of a new country, as the lack of facilities for communication with the world, but even this is a thousand times intensified when a deep clay soil with a heavy growth of timber is encountered, and none but early settlers can fully appreciate all that is implied in the term "bad roads." The incident of a trip to Fond du Lac in the stage, before related and literally true, of thirty-four miles in seventeen hours, is a fair illustration. The steamer Jenny Lind was built during the winter and spring, east, and near the brick store of the Kimberly's, by Dr. U. Peake and Patrick Tiernan, but being too large for this trade, was taken to the Mississippi River the same season. This boat was commenced in 185 I, the third steamboat built at this place.

This year, 1852, preparations were made for the second flouring mill. Edward Smith, who had been engaged here in mercantile pursuits since 1850, HughSherry, who had settled here in 1849, and who had been connected with the "old government mill," and Hiram Wheeler, associated themselves together, and during the winter sent a crew of men to the pineries of the Wolf River, where they cut the timber, rafted it down the river in the spring, and, in the summer of 1853, built the "Winnebago Mill," on the bank of the stream and west side of Cedar Street. Mr. Wheeler, as millwright, superintended its construction and Mr. Sherry the running.

The plank-road completed the past season from Menasha to Kaukauna, in the spring, 1853, A. H. Cronkhite, who came here a lawyer in 1848, but had abandoned the professioixi and engaged in various enterprises, now, in connection with D. C. Van Ostrand, who had resided here since May, 1850, estabhshed a line of teams on the road for the transfer of freights between these two termini of steamboat navigation. Ed Smith also built a brick block of two stores, which were completed in the summer. The corner store was occupied by Mr. Smith and his brother, Hiram Smith. This block, known as Smith's block, is still standing, northeast corner of Cedar Street and Wisconsin Avenue. A large brick building, called the Weeden House, was also built in the southeast corner of Cedar Street and Wisconsin Avenue, by R. C. Weeden. This, afterwards known as the Dolsen House, and still later as the Russell House, has, at last, given place to the present handsome structure of that name.

B. F. Moore, having purchased the steamer Peytona, run her this season from Fond du Lac to Menasha, in connection with the plankroad, divesting Neenah of all direct steamboat communication, another link in the chain of misfortune, which, for a long series of years, fettered the energies and unfaltering perseverence of her citizens.

Sash, Door And Blind Factory

The planing mill, sash, blind and door factory of C. O. Page was put in operation this year, and after various changes is still in operation, next east of the Island City Mill.

Very little seems to have occurred in 1854, to mark the progress of events. Many strangers came, but few invested. Occasionally, one more venturesome would lease or purchase such title as was attainable, open up in some mercantile branch, or manufacturing, in a small way, get discouraged, and sell out; while others, with more confidence in the future, resolved to remain to the end.

The Cronkhites opened a small exchange office, an embryo bank, which, at a later date, expanded into a bank of issue, and continuing to expand until 1861, it was past contraction, and the result was a collapse.

About this time, Mr. John R. Davis, who commenced the manufacture of wagons here in 1849, purchased an interest in the government mill, which he retained until its destruction by fire in 1874.

Two More Flouring Mills Built

In 1854, Cronkhite and Burdick purchased the Donaldson and Lajest building, and converted it into a flouring mill, being the third mill constructed.

erected by Hugh Sherry, and was soon after sold to W. E. and J. R. Ford, who retained the ownership until its site was required for other purposes, when it was again sold and taken down.

Winnebago Rapids Consolidated With

NEENAH. March 28, 1856, the village plats ol Winnebago Rapids and Neenah were consolidated, and the corporate name, Winnebago Rapids, changed to Neenah. Although we have heretofore more commonly used the word Neenah, it should be remembered that no such incorporated village e.xisted until now.

The First Passage Of A Boat Through The Lock

An event, considered at the time, of unparalelled importance, occurred in June, 1856, the passage of the steamer Aquila through the Neenah lock to Green Bay, and return, the first passage between Lake Winnebago antl Green Bay.

Two More Flouring Mills And A Foundry Built

The flouring mill known as the Brick or Atlantic mill was commenced by J. Mills in 1856, and before its completion in 1857, E. W. Peet became interested, and it was completed and run for several years by the firm of Mills & Peet, while the walls of the stone mill adjoining were probably built at the same time, and the machinery added soon after, built and operated for a time by Smith & Lisk. These last two mills, being the fifth and sixth in order, are at this time combined under the name of Falcon Mills, with eight runs ofstones, owned and operated by Clement & Stevens, who have long been residents and engaged in this business.

The iron foundry out on the bank of Buttes des Morts lake, at the inlet of the big slough, was built this year, 1858, by Moore & Wells, (W. N. and A. K. Moore, and B. W. Wells), with the expectation that in the immediate future, steamboats would unload the raw materials on the premises, taking away the products of the foundry in return. This establishment was eventually confined, almost exclus ively, to the manufacture of stoves, and then became the property of Smith, Van Ostrand & Leavens, and later of George C. and D. W. Bergstrom, who still retain it.

Barrel Factory

increased the business to the present time. Mr. Brown also turns out a very large amount of flour barrels, consuming a great portion of his stock, in supplying the various mills of the place.