Industries and Wealth
of the Principal Points in Rhode Island, being the city of Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, Woonsocket, Newport, Narragansett Pier, Bristol & Westerly.New York: A. F. Parsons Publishing Co., 1892
p. 110:L. PATSTONE, (Formerly Cahoone, Alexander & Co.), Jeweler, Howard Building, No. 137 Westminster Street. -- Among the most successful and progressive manufacturing establishments identified with the jewelry trade of Providence is the well-known and popular concern of L. Patstone, maker of diamond and solid gold jewelry, No. 137 Westminster Street. The business here was originally founded in 1863, by Mr. Calvin B. Cahoone, who was succeeded by Messrs. Cahoone, Alexander & Co. In 1889 the business was purchased by Mr. Lewis Patstone. His experience and ability qualify him as an expert in the trade, and he closely supervises all work executed in his establishment, which is located on the third floor of the building, and which is fully equipped with improved tools and machinery. Several skilled and experienced hands are employed, and the manufacturers of the establishment comprise diamond and solid gold jewelry of every description. Mr. Patstone manufactures anything in this line for the trade and also for private individuals, making a specialty to presentation work. The trade, which is of a local character, is brisk and growing, the goods produced here being in high favor with retail dealers as well as with the public generally, and meeting with a ready sale. A special feature is made of modeling in miniature and presentation emblems, the repairing of jewelry, and all work executed is perfect on completion and guaranteed to be exactly as represented. Mr. Patstone is a native of England, and has resided in Providence for the past twenty-five years. He is a popular business man, is well spoken of in mercantile circles, and merits the great degree of popularity to which he has attained.
p. 110:P. O'CONNOR, Practical Plumber and Sanitary Engineer, Manufacturer of and Dealer in Plumbing Materials, No. 30 College Street. -- No industry is of such essential importance to every individual residing in a large, populous city as that of the plumber. There is no security for the health and comfort of any community where the best rules that govern this trade have been overlooked, for dreadful and insidious diseases invariably follow any violation of sanitary engineering. Fortunately for the citizens of Providence, it numbers among its enterprising tradesmen and mechanics some of the most reliable and experienced sanitary plumbers in the United States. Among the foremost in ability, experience and responsibility is the old and well-known house of Mr. P. O'Connor, located eligibly at No. 30 College Street. Mr. O'Connor was born in Ireland, in 1836, and having acquired a thorough knowledge of this trade he came to this country and took up his residence in this city in 1857, and during the same year established this enterprise and has conducted it ever since with great vigor and enterprise, building up a very large and influential patronage that extends throughout the State, and includes many of its leading architects, builders and house owners, and the character of his work is annually increasing his reputation as one of the best skilled hygienic plumbers in the country. The premises utilized are spacious and commodious, well adapted for the business and admirably arranged and fitted up for business and manufacturing purposes. In the store will be found at all times a full and complete assortment of everything in the line of plumbers', gas and steam-fitters' supplies, embracing all the very latest designs in sanitary closets, urinals, bath-tubs, washstands, lift and force pumps, also chandeliers, side, halls, border and drop lights, radiators, faucets, lead, iron and earthen pipe in all sizes and styles, etc., all of which are furnished at manufacturers' prices. The workshop is fully equipped with the latest improved tools and appliances and employment is give to none but thoroughly skilled and experienced workmen. He is prepared to execute at the shortest notice and in the very best style of workmanship all orders for plumbing, ventilating, heating and gasfitting. Estimates are furnished for all work pertaining to this trade, whether in the city or country, and contracts of any magnitude are entered into and performed promptly and satisfactorily at the lowest prices. Repairing also receives special attention. Specimens of the work done by this concern are to be found in some of our most prominent buildings, among them St. Theresa's School, the Lyman Gymnasium at Brown University, the What Cheer Building, and many of our most prominent residences. Mr. O'Connor is an active, industrious and honorable business man, public spirited, and enjoys the fullest confidence of all with whom he has had any dealings.
p. 110:CHARLES DOWLER, Sculptor, No. 45 Eddy Street. -- Mr. Charles Dowler, located in this city at No. 45 Eddy Street, is, without question, the oldest established sculptor in all Rhode Island, and his name has for several years past been intimately associated with some of the finest and most important work in the State, including a quantity of rich interior and exterior decoration. Mr. Dowler's operations consist largely in carving, modeling and chiseling in plaster; executing any kind of design for interior and exterior decorations, also models for monumental workers, or stone workers to copy from; and of the important contracts with which he has been entrusted from time to time, may be mentioned the creation of the Firemen's monument, the whole of the carving on the Narragansett Hotel, inside and outside, and the carving and decoration on the Sprague Mansion, and those of Mr. Lamb, Mr. Frank Sale, Mr. Horace Daniels, Mr. B. B. Knight, Mr. F. Nightingale, as well as many others that space will not admit of enumeration here. Mr. Dowler has been established in the profession for the past twenty-five years, having, in all, twenty-seven years' practical experience at his command; and in view of the distinct success he has achieved, it cannot but be accepted as an established fact, that the fecundity of intuitive talent as a designer which he undoubtedly possesses has materially assisted his rare skill as an artist, in the attainment of that high reputation and soundly-based connection he now enjoys. The studio is on the third floor of 45 Eddy Street, and besides being fully furnished and equipped with every necessary appliances and facility pertaining to the profession, it contains some fine specimens of work, which in point of design and finish are seldom to be seen elsewhere.
p. 111:ALBERT FENNER, Pharmacist, No. 365 High Street. -- No department of business in Providence is of more direct value and importance to the community at large than that in which the practical pharmacist brings to bear his professional skill and experience. In this connection, special attention is directed to the old-established and well-known pharmacy of Mr. A. Fenner, located at No. 365 High Street, opposite Winter Street. Mr. Fenner is a pharmacist of over thirty years' practical experience, and has been in business on his own account, at his present address, since 1861. He was born in the building he now occupies, and is one of the best-known and most popular business men in the city, and a prominent member of the Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Association. He is the manufacturer of over forty different kinds of medicines that have high merit as curative agencies, and from among these we may here mention one, for example, namely, Fenner's Nerve Tonic, for all nervous and muscular troubles, nervous excitement, physical fatigue, mental depression, loss of sleep, those tired feelings, loss of appetite, etc. The thousands of bottles of this tonic that are sold over Mr. Fenner's own counter every year, and its increasing popularity as a beverage at the soda fountain, attest to its striking remedial worth. It is prepared from a plant grown near Nepaul [sic], India, and recognized as it is by all recent medical works, it is in no sense a secret remedy. Its remarkable effect upon the nerves, and the muscular tissue, acting not as a mere stimulant, but as a great nerve-builder and tonic, indicate that this is the best remedy to use for any of the various nervous disorders that are usually difficult to treat. The tonic is elegantly put up in bottles containing twelve ounces, and is a very heavy syrup; each bottle being sufficient to make two quarts of the tonic, of the proper strength for use, by simply adding water. It contains no alcohol or stimulant. Price, 25 cents, $2.50 a dozen. The store is one of the most attractive features on High Street. It is handsomely fitted up and admirably arranged. Here is always to be found a complete stock of pure fresh chemicals and drugs, all the reliable and standard medicines, and family remedies, and the latest noveties in perfumery, toilet articles, fancy goods and druggists' sundries of all kinds. The greatest care is exercised in the filling of physicians' prescriptions and family recipes, and liberal and courteous service is extended to all patrons.
p. 111:GARD. B. MERRILL, Designer and Engraver on Wood and Metal, No. 10 Weybosset Street. -- The engraver's art dates its origin so far back in antiquity that human knowledge at this period cannot place it accurately; but within comparatively recent years it has improved wonderfully, and has kept fully abreast of the advancement of art in other directions, while its importance and desirability is increasing. One of the oldest, most prominent and best houses engaged in this line in the city of Providence is that of Gard. B. Merrill, whose headquarters are centrally located at No. 10 Weybosset Street, and which has always maintained a most enviable reputation for high-class productions and liberal business methods. Mr. Merrill started to learn this difficult art in 1848, and remained at it as an apprentice until 1852, since which time he has been engaged in it in various parts of the United States, having been located in Chicago, Illinois for a number of years. He came East and in 1872 established this enterprise under the present firm-title, and at once built up a very large and permanent patronage. The premises utilized are amply spacious and commodious, admirably adapted to the business and fitted up with every facility for the prompt execution of orders, while none but thoroughly skilled engravers and designers are given employment, and being a thorough master of the art he exercises a thorough supervision over all the details of his establishment, allowing no work to leave it that does not come up to the highest standard of artistic excellence. His work covers all branches of the art from the careful, finely wrought illustrations for books, magazines, etc., to the bold but faithful outline for the daily newspaper or for ordinary commercial purposes. New and original designs are prepared to order and engravings on wood and metal are done at the shortest notice, and when desired electrotypes are furnished, while the prices are always very reasonable. A specialty is made of fine catalogue, label and machinery work. Mr. Merrill is an active, enterprising gentleman, and is a resident of Johnstown [sic]. He is very popular in social and business circles and enjoys the confidence of all with whom he has any dealings.
p. 111:F. G. LEES, Practical Plumber and Gas Pipe Fitter, Dealer in Lead Pipe, Pumps, Bath Tubs, Water Closets, Telephone No. 1354; No. 51 Weybosset Street. - The reliable house of F. G. Lees, located in this city at No. 51 Weybosset Street, now controls a large trade among the better class of regular patrons in this section of the State, for all kinds of practical plumbing and gas pipe fitting. The chief lines undertaken are, contracts for new work such as the supply and fixing of water-closets, urinals, baths, lavoratories, etc., ventilation and drainage and gas pipe fitting, as also general jobbing and repairing; and in all these matters the house is favorably known for turning out only the most satisfactory work at fair and moderate charges. The business was established three years ago by the present proprietor, who personally superintends all work undertaken, and has sixteen years' practical experience in the trade at his command. In addition to plumbing and gas fitting, the house is a dealer in lead pipe, pumps, bath tubs, water-closets and all material necessary to the plumbing and gas pipe business, and of these various goods a heavy and very complete stock is always carried. The store and shop, 25 x 100 feet in size, are well fitted and fully equipped, and upwards of ten skilled mechanics are employed. Mr. F. G. Lees is a native of England, whence he came to the United States twenty-five years ago and settled here in Providence three years later. He is a member of the Master Plumbers' Association, as also of the Knights of Pythias and the F. and A. M.
p. 112:ROBERT L. WALKER, Real Estate, Mortgages and Auctioneer, Room No. 34, Blackstone Block, No. 29 Weybosset Street. - The secure market offered to the public by the real estate of the city of Providence, both for speculation and investment, has been duly appreciated, and both buyers and sellers realize the fact that their investment when judiciously placed, are absolutely safe. To attain the greatest measure of security and best results the services of an experienced broker are always necessary. A prosperous, popular and thoroughly responsible house engaged in this business and kindred interests, is that of Mr. Robert L. Walker, real estate and loan broker, auctioneer, etc., whose headquarters are located at Room 34 in the Blackstone Block, opposite the Postoffice, No. 29 Weybosset Street, with telephone call No. 1711. Mr. Walker is a native of Attleboro, Mass., and has been a resident of this city since 1879, and is a graduate of the high school here. Having a wide range of experience in this line of business, coupled with an intimate knowledge of the various residential and business sections of the city and vicinity, he inaugurated this enterprise on his own account in 1889, and at once became the recipient of a very liberal and influential patronage, derived principally from among our leading capitalists, operators and investors. His office is amply spacious, neatly appointed and provided with every facility for the successful transaction of business. He transacts a general real estate business, buying, selling, exchanging and renting of all kinds of real estate, and investors can rely upon his sound, conservative judgment and accurate knowledge of values in making purchases that will not only afford a steady income, but a prospective increase of value in the near future. He also assumes the entire charge of estates, secures responsible tenants, collects rents, effects repairs in the most judicious manner, and in every way maintains property left in his charge up to the highest point of productive efficiency. Loans on bond and mortgages are negotiated in the most satisfactory manner, and he has at all times money to loan at five and six per cent, per annum on approved collateral. He makes a specialty of selling real and personal property at auction, and enjoys a most enviable reputation in this line among those who have placed property in his hands to be disposed of in this manner. Mr. Walker is a young man of superior business ability, energetic, prompt and reliable in all his dealings, and justly merits the success that has attended his well-deserved efforts.
also on page 112: unidentified portrait, but within text of Robert L. Walker sketch.
p. 112:A. & C. W. HOLBROOK, Manufacturers of Loom Pickers and other Rawhide Goods, also 'Tenax' Brand of Picker Leather, No. 748 North Main Street. -- There are certain houses in this city whose long and honorable career, heavy and extensive transactions and solid business qualities make them landmarks in the history of the past and prime factors in the commerce of the present. Of such the establishment of Messrs. A. & C. W. Holbrook, at No. 748 North Main Street, is a prominent representative. This firm are nationally celebrated as manufacturers of loom pickers and other rawhide goods; also 'Tenax' brand of picker leather. The history of this house is a record of thrift enterprise, honesty and success. It was founded in 1822, by Joseph Cudliff, who gave place to John Gorham, and in 1842 the firm of A. & C. W. Holbrook was organized. On the retirement of the principals in 1868, the present proprietors, Messrs. A. Holbrook, Jr., C. W. Holbrook 2d, and Geo. A. Holbrook came into possession, continuing the business without change in the firm name. The plant covers a ground area of 35,000 square feet, and includes a four-story building, 80 x 150 feet, equipped with improved machinery and ample steam-power, and giving steady employment to a large force of skilled and expert hands. Having the oldest and largest manufactory of loom pickers in the United States, and making also many other articles of rawhide, this firm are able to offer advantages in the selection of stock not possessed by any of their contemporaries. Their patent hide faced hammers are invaluable for machinists, workers in brass or silver, jewelry manufacturers, or for any one who needs to strike a hard blow without bruising the material he is at work upon. Their patent rawhide baskets are light and very durable, and are recognized as far superior to any other hide baskets on the market, while they are furnished at a much cheaper rate. The Messrs. Holbrook are natives of Providence, trained in this branch of industry from their early youth, and possessing large experience and marked ability as manufacturers and business men.
p. 113:WOODWARD ENTERPRISE MANUFACTURING COMPANY, Only Manufacturers of the New Combined Steel, Iron and Wood Fencing, Hammocks, Fire-escapes, Fixed Ladders, Tree Boxes, Etc., Robert Woodward, Treasurer, No. 20 Sabin Street. -- A thoroughly effective fencing, combining the features of cheapness and durability, has for years been a desideratum; and much skill and ingenuity have been devoted to the attainment of such. It is worthy of remark, too, that notable progress has been made in this direction of late; until a high degree of perfection has been attained in the various varieties of fencing. Some of our manufacturers engaged in the line indicated have been signally successful; and right here, special mention is due the Woodward Enterprise Manufacturing Company, No. 20 Sabin Street, who turn out an article of exceptional excellence. They are the only manufacturers of the New Combined steel, iron and wood fencing, which is conceded to be the most perfect, effective and altogether superior article for the purposes intended ever placed on the market. It is cheap, durable, and very strong, inasmuch as the pickets are thoroughly held in position by five galvanized cable-woven wires; it is perfectly pig and dog tight, visible as a plank, and portable as a trunk. It has a metallic resistance of over 3,000 lbs.; is elastic and very difficult to climb; unsurpassed in its durability and symmetry, the limited space it occupies, and with all, its economy in putting up. Two men can readily put up 2,000 feet per day, after the posts are down. It is especially adapted for railroad purposes. The company also manufactures hammocks, fire-escapes, tree boxes, lattice-work for arbors, private walks, etc., and these, like the fencing, are in widespread and growing demand. All their products are made by machinery of their own invention, while they use galvanized wire only, and every article sold by them is warranted as to workmanship and materials. The Woodward Enterprise Manufacturing Company, of which Robert Woodward is treasurer, was established about four years ago, and from the start the venture has been an unequivocal success, the business rapidly increasing. The factory is spacious, commodious and well equipped, and a large force of skilled hands are employed, under the immediate supervision of Mr. Woodward. The company are prepared to furnish fences of any required height and strength, from one to seven feet high, with any style or size of picket, complete, ready to put up, in sections (painted if desired), from three to fifty feet lengths. Their standard fencing is 4 feet high, pickets 2 inches wide, 1/2 inch thick, 3 inches apart, ready to ship in rolls containing fifty feet, weight about 125 lbs. One of the many important factors appertaining to their system of fencing is, that the fence can be taken up and changed from one locality to another. It is really a portable fence. Price-list is furnished upon application, all communications of a business nature receiving prompt response, while all orders for anything in the line above indicated are attended to in the most expeditious and trustworthy manner.
p. 113:D. AHEARN, & CO., Successors to S. A. Pierce, Commission Dealers in all Classes of Horses, Recievers of Horses, Carriages and Harnesses on Consignment for Auction and Private Sale, No. 109 Dorrance Street. -- One of the most active of the representatives in this line of business are Messrs. D. Ahearn & Co., who succeeded the firm of S. A. Pierce, November 1, 1891. The stable, which has been for ten years at No. 109 Dorrance Street under different managements, has become quite a feature of the city, and the present firm have won their way very rapidly into the confidence of the people by their methods by which the business has been brought to its present dimensions. Their close attention to detail and a sterling honesty of purpose has ever been the firm's chief aim. They are large receivers of horses in carload lots from the West, Middle and Eastern States. They have also a very large assortment of carriages and horse furnishings always on hand. Last year over 2,360 horses were sold in ten months. They hold an auction sale every Saturday morning, commencing at 10.30, when they dispose of all horses, carriages and harness, which have been left by customers to be sold, to the best possible advantage. They occupy the first and second floors of their spacious building, which covers an area 100 x 125 feet in dimensions. Their stalls will accommodate one hundred to one hundred and twenty-five horses at one time, and these are given the very best of attention by their eight competent assistants. Their trade lies principally in New England, but a few customers are also counted in different parts of the country. Mr. Ahearn is an Irishman by birth, who came to this country fifty-two years ago, being then an infant less than one year old. He has been a resident of Woonsocket for the last thirty-five years.
p. 113:GEO. A. WORCESTER & CO., Electro-Platers and Colorers, No. 120 Friendship Street. -- The enterprising house of Geo. A. Worcester & Co. was established in 1890, and is already looked upon as one of the prominent institutions in its line in the city. The firm are inventors of the new process of shading and manufacturers of alloyed anodes, also dealers in new and second-hand dynamos, batteries, chemicals and all appliances pertaining to electro-plating. They occupy commodious quarters on the first-floor, and are supplied with all the latest improved machinery operated by steam-power. The arrangements and conveniences are ample for the prosecution of a very extensive business, and the reputation of the concern for the execution of work of a high order of merit is excelled by no similar concern in this section of the country. A corps of expert and experienced workmen is employed and all orders are promptly filled. The trade of the house is with the manufacturing jewelers of Rhode Island and vicinity, and is rapidly increasing as the excellence of the work produced becomes more widely known. Mr. G. A. Worcester, the active member of the firm, is a native of Massachusetts, but has been a resident of this city for the past ten years and is regarded as an honorable and reliable business man.
p. 114:CHEMNITZ COMPANY, Manufacturers of Men's, Ladies', Children's and Infants' Hosiery, Fast Black Dyers and Finishers, No. 376 Potter Avenue. -- That important field of production devoted to the manufacture of hosiery, has its most important representative in Rhode Island, in the Chemnitz Company, whose works are at No. 376 Potter Avenue, in this city. Although a comparatively new enterprise, yet a signal success has been scored by this concern. The company was incorporated about a year ago, under the State laws of Rhode Island, with ample capital, and with the following prominently known gentlemen as officers: President, John McAuslan; secretary and treasurer, his son, Geo. R. McAuslan; general manager, Joseph G. Burton. Mr. John McAuslan is a director of the Rhode Island National Bank, of the Industrial Trust Company, and the Mechanics Savings Bank, president of the Roger Williams Loan Association, and a member of the dry goods firm of Callender, McAuslan & Troop. His son, Mr. Geo. R. McAuslan, is a director of the Young Men's Christian Association, and popularly known in this community. The works are comprised in quarters 40 x 175 feet in dimensions, and a dyehouse and finishing deparment connecting, 35 x 90 feet in size, three stories high. The factory is admirably equipped with first-class machinery, including twenty-two German looms, thirty knitters, eighteen ribbers, four spoolers, ten seamers, and eleven loopers. Steam furnishes the driving power for the machinery. Employment is found for one hundred operatives, and the output capacity of the works is 1050 dozen pairs of hosiery a week, while 5000 dozen can be dyed weekly. They manufacture men's, ladies', children's, and infants' hosiery, and are fast black dyers and finishers. Their trade extends to all parts of the United States, and is rapidly increasing in volume and influence.
p. 114:B. H. GLADDING & CO., Dry Goods, Fancy Goods, Carpets and Upholstery, Nos. 241 and 245 Westminster Street. -- The well-known house of B. H. Gladding & Co. dates its origin back almost to the birth of the nineteenth century, originally located on Main Street, or, as it was then called 'Cheapside'. The business was there conducted up to 1878, when the firm removed to Westminster Street, occupying the present spacious premises since October, 1891. It was established in 1805 by Watson & Gladding, and some years later passed into sole control of Geo. F. Gladding, who was in turn succeeded by B. H. Gladding & Co., and under this firm-name has ever since been continued with uninterrupted success. The copartnership now consists of Messrs. William Armour and J. B. Child, who have been in the house respectively, five years and fifteen years. They are both men of energy and excellent business abilities, as well as thorough experience. The firm are importers and retailers, handling everything in the line of dry goods, fancy goods, carpets, upholstery, and furs, also carrying a full line of seal goods, and they have an extensive and influential patronage. No inferior stock, whatever, is handled, the various departments being replete with rich, elegant and durable productions, at the lowest prices. The building occupied is a five-story and basement, 40 x 150 feet structure, and is very eligibly located. There are seventeen different departments, all handsomely fitted up and excellently arranged, and an elevator connects with all floors. Every convenience is provided for patrons; the place is thoroughly heated, perfectly ventilated and brilliantly lighted, and upward of one hundred and twenty-five clerks, salesladies, etc., are employed. An immense stock is constantly kept on hand, and embraces superb productions in silks, satins, plushes and fine dress fabrics in great variety; exquisite novelities in cashmeres and imported suitings, very stylish productions in fancy ginghams and a number of particularly neat patterns in calicoes, embroideries and ribbons in prettiest shades and tints; dress trimmings, hosiery, notions, corsets, parasols, umbrellas, etc., cottons, print cloths, sheetings, towelings, men's furnishings and staple dry goods generally, together with a splendid line of carpetings, upholstery, window drapery and kindred interior decorations.
p. 114:ALBERT F. FULLER, Castings in Gold, Silver, Etc., No. 218 Eddy Street. - It is not a little surprising that in Providence - the seat of the great jewelry industry - there should be only one house devoting its whole energies and resources to casting in gold, silver, aluminum and bronze, but it is, nevertheless, a fact. The one referred to, is that of Albert F. Fuller, located at No. 218 Eddy Street, which, besides controlling the trade here, also carries on an extensive business, reaching all over the United States. This enterprise was established by the present proprietor, ten years ago, and the reason that it receives no opposition here, may be found in the fact, that the many facilities it possesses for turning out the finest work, on short notice, at the most reasonable terms, added to its established connections with the first jewelry manufacturers here, make competition practically impossible; apart from the fact that this is one of the few lines of trade where a transfer of patronage is of the greatest inconvenience. The specialty of the business consists in casting in gold, silver, aluminum or bronze, including intricate and elaborate designs for charms, or other ornaments used by jewelers; as well as molds, statuettes, medals, watch-chains, ornaments and chain links, complete, cast from aluminum. The jewelers' castings turned out are made from a mixture that is warranted to color well; and any patron may rely upon having the sole use of his own designs, whether so specified, or not. The workshop, 40 x 60 feet in size, on the second-floor, at No. 218 Eddy Street, is furnished with a complete plant, including a crucible furnace and a full equipment of appliances and accessories pertaining to the industry; ample steam-power being provided. Mr. Albert F. Fuller is, himself, an expert molder, having had forty-six years' practical experience in this line, and in iron molding. He is a native of this city, now sixty-one years of age, and is a member of the F. and A. M.
p. 115:C. I. BURLINGAME, Commission Merchant in Hay, Straw and Grain, Nos. 174, 178, 180, 182 Dyer Street. -- The importance of the hay and grain interest of Providence can scarcely be overestimated. It constitutes one of the great branches of commercial activity in the city, and the volume of business grows apace. Among our representative merchants engaged in the line indicated, there are none more worthy of special mention in this review, than C. I. Burlingame, whose office and warehouse are at Nos. 174-182 Dyer Street. He is a general commission dealer, in hay, straw, and grain, receiving consignments from all sections of the country, and his trade, which is very large, extends throughout the New England States. He makes a specialty of hay, and of this he handles over six hundred carloads a year. Mr. Burlingame is a gentleman in the prime of life, being about thirty-seven, and was born in this State. He is a man of energy and enterprise, thoroughly reliable in his dealings, and maintains an A1 standing in commercial circles. He started in business in 1875, when but twenty years of age, and his career from the first has been marked by steady and substantial progress. Mr. Burlingame occupies a 50 x 100 two-story structure, with ample water frontage for vessels to unload, and the building is also connected by siding with railroad. The facilities are of a superior character, and a large force of help is employed. A heavy stock is constantly kept on hand, and all orders receive prompt and personal attention, while the lowest market prices are quoted, Mr. Burlingame being in a position to offer exceptional inducements on cargo and carload lots.
p. 115:WALTER W. WHIPPLE, Commission Merchant and Wholesale Dealer in Butter, Eggs, Cheese, Poultry, No. 95 to 99 Canal Street. -- The remarkable development of the general produce commission interests of Providence during the past quarter of a century, is well worthy of more than ordinary consideration in these pages. During the period mentioned, a number of large and flourishing concerns devoted to the wholesale handling of butter, cheese, eggs and general produce, have been started, and the number continues to increase. A prosperous, reliable and popular house among the number referred to, is that of Mr. Walter W. Whipple, commission merchant and wholesale dealer in butter, eggs, etc., whose ably conducted establishment is located at No. 137 Canal Street, and whose business connections are of a most substantial character. This stanch and responsible house was founded originally on this thoroughfare in 1878, by Mr. Whipple, who is a native of North Providence, and is at present State Senator, to which position he has lately been elected for a second term. He has been a member of the Legislature for the past four years, and has filled the office with dignity and signal ability, to the entire satisfaction of his constituents and the public at large, by whom he is esteemed as an honorable and worthy representative. He early developed a very large and substantial trade, which grew to such proportions that he was obliged to seek more commodious quarters and better facilities to meet its demands, and in 1882, he removed to the Gorham Building, at Nos. 95 to 99 Canal Street, where his premises are four times as large as those formerly occupied, and where every facility is at hand for the successful prosecution of the business. Having superior connections with shippers and producers throughout the New England, Middle and Western States, including a branch house under the firm title of Whipple & Company, at Oskaloosa, Iowa, he is in constant receipt of large consignments daily. The premises utilized are of ample dimensions, commodious and fully provided with every facility for the successful transaction of business, including telephone connections, etc. The consignments received are from the best producing regions and embrace choice dairy and fancy creamery butter and cheese, fresh laid eggs, live and dressed poultry, a specialty being made of spring chickens, capons and New England reared turkeys. He also receives all kinds of game in season. A waiting market is found for all consignments, which are handled with care and judgment and highest ruling prices obtained, special care being given to prompt and correct returns, and when desired liberal advances are made. Receiving and handling only the best class of goods, his establishment is a noted headquarters for first-class retailers, city and summer-resort hotel-keepers, to procure supplies. Mr. Whipple is a young man of superior business ability, courteous and popular, and enjoys the confidence and esteem of all with whom he has dealings.
p. 115:G. W. EDMUNDS, Carriage Manufacturer, Nos. 75, 77 and 79 Clifford Street. -- The enormous increase in the demand for fine carriages has rendered this manufacture a prominent industry in the United States. The representative in this line of enterprise in Providence is Mr. G. W. Edmunds, whose establishment is located at Nos. 75, 77, and 79 Clifford Street. This gentleman is widely-known as a manufacturer of carriages, and has been established in the business here since 1866. He occupies a spacious and commodious shop, fully supplied with all machinery and appliances, and Mr. Edmunds is prepared to do all kinds of repairing, make springs to order or build fine carriages in the latest leading style, with particular reference to the wants of a fine trade. All work is under the personal supervision of the proprietor, whose long practical experience and thorough knowledge of the requirements of the trade, insure the production of only such vehicles as will withstand the most critical tests, both in regard to the materials used in their construction and the workmanship employed. A general line of blacksmith work is done to order, twenty-four skilled and experienced workmen are employed, and the vehicles turned out are highly esteemed by the trade, for their strength, lightness, durability and general excellence. Mr. Edmunds is a native of Maine, but has been for thirty years a resident of this city, and is highly regarded for his sound business principles and personal growth.
p. 116:A. S. SOUTHWICK & CO., Manufacturing Jewelers, No. 21 Eddy Street; New York Office, No. 53 Maiden Lane. -- A prominent and successful house engaged in manufacturing jewelry in Providence is that of Messrs. A. S. Southwick & Co., located at No. 21 Eddy Street. The business was established at this location under the above firm name in 1890, and the house has commanded its full share of the immense trade in jewelry carried on at this point. Mr. A. S. Southwick, the active member of this firm, has been engaged in this line since 1852, and possesses a thorough knowledge of every detail. The premises occupied comprise one floor, 40 x 60 feet in dimensions, provided with every mechanical facility whereby the best order of production may be secured. The range of manufacture embraces a long list of articles of jewelry, and a specialty is made of filled rings and plain and fancy stone rings. The goods are beautiful and original is design, and in quality are very superior. The trade of the house extends to all parts of the United States. Orders are promptly filled, and the demand for these goods is constantly increasing. Mr. A. S. Southwick is a native of Pennsylvania, but has been a resident of this city for twenty-six years, and is highly esteemed as a prominent business man. The New York office of the firm is located at No. 53 Maiden Lane.
p. 116:EDDY & WORCH, Insurance Agents, No. 41 Westminster Street. - The leading and best known fire insurance agency in Providence is that conducted by Messrs. Eddy & Worch at No. 41 Westminster Street. This agency was established in 1848 by Mr. John Eddy, and in 1877 the present firm was organized by the admission of Mr. Wm. F. Worch to partnership. By reason of their unequaled experience, influential connections, and superior facilities, this firm are in a position to offer the rarest inducements to property owners and the uninsured of all classes of society. They are local agents for the Merchants' of Newark, N. J.; the London and Lancashire, of England; the Atlas, of New York; the Holyoke Mutual, of Holyoke, Mass.; the Abington Mutual, of Abington, Mass.; and the Quincy Mutual, of Quincy, Mass. The largest risks are promptly placed and distributed in a judicious manner, while the lowest rates of premium are invariably quoted, and a speedy and liberal adjustment of all loses is guaranteed. The firm control the insuring of many of the choicest lines of business and residential property in this city and vicinity, and are eminently popular with their host of patrons. Mr. Eddy has had fifty years' experience as an underwriter and adjuster, and is the oldest and most successful insurance man in the state, President of the Blackstone Mutual and the Merchants Mutual Fire Insurance Companies, of this city; a director of the Third National Bank; a member of the Historical Society and the Board of Fire Underwriters, and an accepted authority on all matters relating to fire insurance. Mr. Worch is a native of New Jersey, a member of the Board of Fire Underwriters, secretary of the Blackstone Mutual and Merchants Mutual Fire Insurance Companies, and an expert underwriter and talented business man.
p. 116:TILLINGHAST, STILES & CO., Cotton Yarns, No. 20 Market Square. -- The representative house of Tillinghast, Stiles & Co., located at No. 20 Market Square, with mill at No. 128 Mathewson Street for dyeing, bleaching, winding and spooling cotton yarns, was established September, 1890, and has since been conducted with gratifying success. The firm are extensive buyers of cotton in yarns, also doing a commission business. The goods are sold principally in New England. They carry a large stock of gray and colored yarns, and the connections and facilities of the firm are of that character which enables them to offer special advantages to customers, and to fill all orders of whatever magnitude in the promptest and most satisfactory manner. This house carefully consults the best interests of its numerous patrons, and is prepared to offer desirable grades of goods at prices which command the attention of the closest and most prudent buyers. The members of the firm are honorable and reliable gentlemen, experienced in business, and the firm is in every way a most desirable one with which to establish business relations. Mr. Stiles is treasurer of the Orwell Mills at Fitchburg, Mass., and spends most of his time there, while Mr. Tillinghast is a native of Providence, and is held in high esteem by all who know him.
p. 116:GAIUS W. HUBBARD, Largest Stock in Rhode Island of Democrats, Goddards, Buckboards, Surreys, Phaetons, Road Carts, Horse Clothing, etc., Nos. 378 and 380 High Street, Hoyle Building. -- Although established as recently as January 1, 1892, Mr. Gaius W. Hubbard, located in this city at Nos. 378 and 380 High Street (Hoyle Building), has already succeeded in building up a large volume of trade as a dealer in vehicles of all kinds, harness, horse clothing, etc., and he is now a chief source of supply for this section of New England among direct users. Mr. Hubbard was formerly a traveller over the Eastern States in this same line, and he is now agent for Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut for Moyer's wagons and carts, travelling over those States to effect sales. Mr. Hubbard possesses many especial facilities for obtaining first-hand a fine line of democrats, Goddards, buckboards, surreys, phaetons, road carts, victorias, landaus, broughams, buggies, etc., upn the most advantageous terms, and he is thereby enabled to offer purchasers some substantial inducements as to quality, durability, make, elegance of style, and prices, that it would be difficult to duplicate elsewhere. In addition a heavy assortment is always kept of hand of single and double harnesses, saddles, bridles, etc., of the best makes; as well as horse clothing, whips, and a full line of requisites for the coach-house and stable. The immense stock of carriage wagons, carts, etc., carried includes over one hundred and twenty different kinds, and while constituting a handsome and imposing show, is generally regarded as the largest and most complete collection of vehicles in Rhode Island. For the efficient keeping of this choice and costly stock a capacious storehouse is maintained, and in addition a showroom, 60 x 40 feet in size, at the address named, where a fine exhibition of carriages materially offsets the elegant fixtures and fittings. Mr. Gaius W. Hubbard is a native of this city and is a young man of energy, enterprise, and sound ability.
p. 117:JAMES DIXON, Shipper and Dealer in Fish, Oysters, Lobsters, Live Bait, Etc., No. 45 South Water Street. -- An old-established and reliable shipper and dealer in seafood of all kinds, in this city, is the house of James Dixon, located at No. 45 South Water Street, which has long been a leading source of supply for the trade, and is now the center of an extensive connection, reaching throughout Rhode Island and the adjacent territory. This important business was established twenty-three years ago by the present proprietor, in whose skillful and experienced hands it has steadily developed year by year in volume and scope; while the reputation of the house, as a speedy and efficient medium for the supply of choice and fresh molusca, bivalves, fish, etc. has been augmented in the same ratio. The chief lines of seafood handled are oysters, lobsters, live bait, eels, cod, mackerel, bluefish, shad, haddocks, clams, etc., which are caught in the Providence River and along the New England coast, and brought in direct to the wharf, on which stand the premises utilized for the purposes of the business. These comprise a two-story building 20 x 80 feet in size, well arranged and fully equipped for the most expeditious handling and for the efficient storage of the goods dealt in. On the arrival of a boat alongside, its scarcely-dead cargo is immediately hauled up on to the first floor, where it is packed in boxes, barrels, etc., and is run out of the other side to wagons waiting to convey it to the depots and direct to customers. Thus, no time is lost in getting the fish, etc., to its ultimate destination, and any orders entrusted to the house for large or small quantities are sure of the same prompt fulfillment and on the best terms. Mr. James Dixon is a native of New York, and has been a respected resident of Providence for the past thirty years. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and served for three years and four months in the late war as quarter-gunner on the United States Frigate 'Potomac', acquitting himself in that capacity with energy, zeal and valor.
p. 117:BERRY BROS., Stationery, Periodicals, Confectionery and Cigars, Circulating Library, No. 713 High Street. - A prominent house, dealing in fancy stationery, and enjoying an enviable patronage in Providence, is that of Messrs. Berry Bros., (F. E. and C. T. Berry), who were established two and a-half years ago at No. 713 High Street, where they now occupy a commodious store, 20 x 90 feet in dimensions, heavily stocked with everything included in the stationery business, including periodicals, music books, sporting goods, such as fishing tackle, baseball goods, etc., confectionery and cigars. Messrs. Berry Bros. have also a large circulating library with a catalogue of some 3,000 books, which are subscribed for by a large number of leading citizens. They have a large trade in the city and vicinity for their stationery goods, which are from the best makers and are sold at prices which bring them within the reach of all. They also command a large trade in sporting goods and periodicals. The copartners are natives of New Hampshire and have resided in the city for eleven years. F. E. Berry is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and C. T. Berry is prominent in the I. O. O. F.
p. 117:M. W. LONERGAN & CO., Botanists and Pharmacists, No. 193 Broad Street. -- A reliable and well-known pharmaceutical establishment in Providence is that of Messrs. M. W. Lonergan & Co., situated at No. 193 Broad Street, which, besides conducting a first-class trade hereabouts, is freely recommended by the medical faculty, for the accurate preparation of physicians' prescriptions and miscellaneous recipes. In addition, a general line of drugs, chemicals, medicines and family remedies of the purest nature is dispensed, and a large number of pharmaceutical compounds and proprietary articles are put up on the premises, a specialty being made of several valuable specifics made from herbs, roots, etc., and other botanical extracts. The business was established two years ago by the present sole proprietor, Mr. M. W. Lonergan, who has been all along engaged in this line, and possesses a wide and varied experience, ranging over a period of twenty-three years. The pharmacy itself, 20 x 40 feet in size, is finely fitted and well appointed in all respects, and the carefully selected stock carried embraces a full assortment in each line of goods ordinarily kept by any first-class drug and prescription store. Mr. M. W. Lonergan, who is a native of Connecticut and still a young man, has resided in this city for the past twenty-four years, and is Commissary of the First Light Infantry Association.
p. 117:CYRIL C. PECK, Fine Groceries, Meats, Fruits, Canned Goods, Etc., Nos. 112 and 114 South Main Street. - A progressive and complete establishment devoted to the sale of teas, coffees and fancy groceries is that of Mr. Cyril C. Peck. The business was established in 1872, and in the quality of goods handled, it is safe to say that this is the equal of any similar institution in the city. The proprietor has every facility for securing the choicest goods on the market and his customers have been loud in their praises of the great satisfaction given in every transaction. The store occupied is 30 x 60 feet in dimensions and is finely arranged. A large stock of fine groceries, meats, fruits, canned goods, etc. is kept on hand, also game in season. Eight assistants are employed and three wagons are kept busy delivering goods. Mr. Peck is a native of Massachusetts, but has been in this city since 1870. He is vice-president of the Merchants' Retail Commercial Agency, a member of the Butchers' and Marketmen's Association, as also of the Pohman Club and the I. O. O. F. Mr. Delano, the efficent manager, is also a native of Massachusetts and has been in the city since 1875. He is a prominent member of the Knights of Pythias and of the 1st Regiment of the State Militia, also commissary of the 1st Light Infantry of the same.
p. 118:ROBERT L. STANTON & CO., Retailers of Children's Fine Clothing, L. P. Hollander & Co.'s Exclusive Styles, No. 105 Westminster Street, Butler Exchange. -- The enterprising and progressive business measures of Messrs. R. L. Stanton & Co., retailers of girls' and boys' fine clothing, have won the house a high reputation and influential patronage. The establishment of this popular firm is centrally and advantangiously located at No. 105 Westminster Street, on the ground floor of the Butler Exchange Building, and the premises are admirably arranged for this exclusive line of business. The store is one of the most attractive on this busy thoroughfare and is the only house in New England catering exclusively to the wants of the little ones, both girls and boys. The large and varied stock of goods carried is of the firm's own make and consists of new and original designs in girls', misses', and boys' wearing apparel. On account of the liberal patronage from various sections of New England a special feature of the business consists of a mail order department, and all inquiries receive prompt and satisfactory attention. Customers and the public may rest assured that representations made by Messrs. Stanton & Co. are reliable in each and every particular. Mr. Robert L. Stanton, the head of the firm, was born at Westerly, R. I., and came to Providence eleven years ago, where his superior business qualifications have gained him success and commercial prominence. Socially he is equally popular, being a member of the I. O. O. F., the Narragansett Wheelmen's Association, and other societies. Mr. Louis A. Remington is a native of East Greenwich, R.I., and a gentleman who has been active and popular in the clothing trade for many years. He entered Mr. Stanton's establishment some time ago, and was admitted to the firm May 1, 1892. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and is generally popular with the retail trade.
photograph on page 118: R. L. Stanton & Co. storefront
p. 118:K. W. WHITTEMORE, Manufacturers of the Champion Blackboard Material, also the Champion Patent Portable Blackboard, No. 47 Sprague Street. - A most valuable industry that has its home in Providence, is that owned and conducted by Mr. K. W. Whittemore, at No. 47 Sprague Street. Mr. Whittemore is the inventor and sole manufacturer of the Champion Blackboard Material and the Champion Patent Portable Blackboard. These products of his have not only a national but a world-wide reputation, as they are sent to all parts of the globe, and are everywhere known as perfect for the use in which they are adapted. The business of this house was founded in 1867 by Messrs. Whittemore & Crouch at the present address, and in 1877 Mr. Whittemore became sole proprietor. He has established agencies in all parts of the United States. Whittemore's Champion Blackboard Material is now used in all the public schools and other places where blackboards are required, while a very large trade is done in the export of Champion Portable Blackboards. The premises occupied for manufacturing purposes have dimensions of 60 x 100 feet, and are supplied with all requisite appliances. A heavy stock is carried of the specialties dealt in, and all orders from the trade meet with immediate fulfillment. The business of this house is increasing yearly, until now it is a recognized leader in the New England States. Mr. Whittemore was born in Worcester, Mass., but has resided in Providence for the past ten years. He has long been favorably known as an enterprising, reliable business man of marked executive ability and sterling personal worth, and has won success by deserving it.
p. 119:CHARLES E. ANGELL, Sole Manufacturer of Self-Clinching Belt Hooks, No. 21 Eddy Street. - This progressive business was founded in 1885 by Messrs. Simeon Budlong & Co., and was continued by them up to July, 1891, when Mr. Angell succeeded to the control. He has had ten years' experience in the present line of trade, and was, therefore, amply qualified to successfully conduct the enterprise secured by his purchase. The self-clinching belt hooks were patented May 20, 1879, and May 29, 1883. They have since come into use in all parts of the United States, and are too well known to those having to do with machinery to need a detailed description at our hands. Suffice it to say, they are the best device of the kind every invented. Mr. Angell is a native of Providence and is a popular citizen as well as a reliable business man.
p. 119:WILLIAM R. BROWN, Manufacturer of Emblems, Jewels, Ribbon Badges, Etc., No. 45 Eddy Street. -- The trade in military and society goods, regalia, etc., is one of the most unique features of Providence's commercial activity. At the present day there is an increasing demand for fresh novelties and originality in styles of regalia which presents a wide field to the talented designer and manufacturer. In this connection we desire to make special reference to the well-known house of Mr. W. R. Brown, which is the largest in New England in this line and was established in 1885. The premises occupied are spacious and admirably adapted to the business, and employment is furnished to twenty skilled workmen. Mr. Brown keeps constantly on hand embroidered and metallic ornaments and stamped metal goods, and a heavy and superior stock of gold and silver laces, fringes, tassels, ribbon badges and badge bars, rosettes, etc., for all societies for parades, excursions, balls, and conventions. The samples shown in this line are numbered by the thousands, as there is no limit to the tasteful and elegant designs that can be furnished. Appropriate cuts on hand, or made free of expense for any society. The productions of this house are unsurpassed for quality, beauty, finish and general excellence by any other house in this country or Europe. Mr. Brown carefully fills all orders at lowest prices, and his trade extends to all parts of the United States. He is regarded as an authority on all matters pertaining to costumes and regalia, and is thoroughly conversant with every branch of his business. Mr. Brown is a native of Chicago, but has been a resident of this city for eleven years, and is highly esteemed by the community for his business ability and sterling integrity. Society and job printing is successfully executed by this house, and all orders for work in this line are promptly filled. Those interested requiring regalia should leave their orders with this responsible, reliable house which offers advantages in goods and prices very difficult to be secured elsewhere in this country. Mr. Brown is a member of the following societies, viz.: Nestell Lodge, No. 37, A. F. & A. M.; Industrial Assembly No. 2085, K. of L.; Ex-Dist. Sec. and Treas. D. A. 99 K. of L.; Hope Lodge, No. 4, I. O. O. F.; Moshassuck Encampment, No. 2, I. O. O. F.; P. C. St. Elmo Lodge, No. 10, K. of P.; Capt. Harmony Division, No. 9, U. R. K. P.; P. S. King Philip Tribe, No. 1, I. O. R. M.; Narragansett Chieftains' League, No. 1; Waneta Council, No. 1, D. of P.; P. V. H. Norman Castle, No. 1, K. G. E.; Court Canonicus, No. 7396, A. O. F. of A.; P. V. O. Damascus Council, No. 6, Grand Orient; Roger Williams Commandery, No. 324, U. O. G. C.; Franklin Lodge, No. 61, N. E. O. P.; Providence R. A. Chapter, No. 1; Garfield Council, No. 16, O. U. A. M.; P. P. Providence Council, No. 9, A. O. D.; Rhode Island League, No. 1, A. P. L.; I. O. O. F. Beneficial Association; Branch No. 732, O. I. H.; Pawtucket Veteran Firemen's Association; I. O. R. M. Accident Association; Providence Associates, No. 27, N. M. R. A.; Roger Williams Lodge, No. 3533, K. of H.; Roger Williams Grange, No. 19, P. of H.; Providence Country Pomona Grange, No. 1, P. of H.; Camp Garfield, No. 1, S. of V.; Washington Lodge, No. 20, K. and L. of P.; Ivanhoe Assembly, No. 61, N. S. E. O.; Brayton Lodge, No. 13, A. O. U. W.; Sons and Daughters of America; People's Benefit Fraternity; Calvary Commandery, No. 13, K. T.; and others.
illustration on page 119: unidentified etched portrait of a man - within text of William R. Brown sketch.
p. 119:J. H. FANNING & CO., Manufacturing Jewelers, No. 137 Broad Street. - Of the many extensive manufacturers of jewelry in Providence, none have won a more enviable reputation for integrity and thorough knowledge of business than J. H. Fanning & Co., of No. 137 Broad Street. The stock of manufactured jewelry carried by this firm is the largest of its kind in this city, and the house has long been the headquarters for the best values and newest and most elegant designs in these wares. Messrs. Fanning & Co. have long made a specialty of hair and ribbon chains, silk fobs, and charms and lockets in an infinite variety of styles. Their designs have long been noted for their originality, handsome finish, and intrinsic value. Their fame has spread so rapidly and so extensively that jobbers all through the United States rely upon this firm for their supply of the latest novelties in this line. The business was established in 1854 under the firm name of J. H. Fanning, later became Fanning & Potter, was changed to Fanning, Potter & Co., and three years ago the present appellation was adopted. The firm have occupied their present roomy quarters at No. 137 Broad Street for five years. Prior to that time their establishment was at different times located on Potter, Pace, and Page streets. Each time they moved it was to secure more commodious quarters for their steadily growing business. Their present work-rooms are 1200 feet in area, equipped with steam power machinery and every modern device known to the trade. The most skilful jewelers only are employed by this firm, and the ten men now employed in their work-rooms are artists at their trade. Mr. Fanning, the head of the firm, is one of the most widely known and generally popular business men in the city. He is a native of Rhode Island, prominent not only in trade circles, but in the most select society of the city.
p. 120 - 121:NARRAGANSETT HOTEL, L. H. Humphreys, Lessee. -- The great hotel of the present has the population of a small village, yet the guests have extraordinary fare and every comfort. Humanity is in one of these mammoth establishments catered by wholesale, while at the same time each individual guest receives as much attention as though he had one whole hotel to himself; and it is this combination of large general figures with the closest attention to the minutest personal detail which forms the chief problem of the hotel proprietor, and constitutes the real mystery of modern hotel-keeping. It is generally admitted by connoisseurs and experienced travelers that the Narragansett Hotel, in Providence, is second to no other hotel in the United States, in combining hospitable ideas and practical business methods with marked ability of management and every luxury. This magnificent hotel was thrown open to the public in 1877, and during the ten years of the intervening time has been under the management of Mr. L. H. Humphreys, the present lessee. It is admirably situated in the business heart of the city, with entrances on Broad, Dorrance and Eddy Streets, and is conducted on the American plan. It is constructed of brick, with sandstone trimmings, in an ornate and thoroughly substantial manner, and was built and furnished at a cost of $1,100,000. It is seven stories in height, thoroughly fireproof, and contains 300 rooms for guests. Every modern accessory of the decorator, the cabinet maker and the upholsterer have been utilized, and the house is a beautiful and artistic exhibit of the most advanced achievements in those lines. More than $50,000 have been expended on decorations and paintings alone. The suites of rooms, for which this hotel is especially noted, are unequaled for decorative characteristics and for exquisite elegance and beauty. Its cabinet-work also challenges comparison with the finest specimens in this country, and the frescoes are elaborate and superb, and the law of harmony reigns supreme in all decorations. No other hotel in the country can rival it in the number of rare, costly paintings that adorn its walls. In the main corridor is noticed the elaborate painting of the 'Death of Nelson', after P. Jazet, representing the battle of Trafalga, where the brave Nelson fell. On the walls of the parlor are several celebrated oil paintings, including 'Luxury', by the famous fruit artist, E. C. Leavitt; 'The Flower Girl', by Schryver; 'The Fortunes of War', by James G. Tyler; 'The Wolf Story', by C. Rinaldi; 'Tally Ho', by James C. Thorn, and others, besides a number of water-colors, landscapes and marine views. The reading-room is liberally supplied with fine pictures, as are also the cafe and wineroom, all of which are much admired by visitors. The marts of the world have been ransacked for the decorations and furnishings of this palatial hotel. The interior appointments are in keeping with its international reputation, the sanitary arrangements are perfect, the means of escape in case of fire are unrivaled, and everything that art, science and capital can devise has been utilized for the safety and comfort of guests. Every modern improvement has been provided, including electric-lights, passenger elevator, steam-heat, electric bells, barber-shop, billiard hall, bar, and every accessory to complete hotel life; while the cafe is one of the best managed on the continent and is open until midnight. The cuisine of the Narragansett is made the constant study of the most expert caterers, and an experienced chef and a staff of skilled assistants successfully meet the demands of the elaborate bills of fare for which this house is so widely popular. Many notable dinners and banquets are held here during the year, while the leading public men and foreign tourists are guests of the Narragansett when in Providence. Mr. Humphreys, the proprietor, is a native of Providence, and is a well-equipped host of thirty years' experience; formerly proprietor of City Hotel here and at Rocky Point. He has surrounded himself with a competent corps of assistants, including D. B. Hall as cashier, and Messrs. J. E. Johnson, A. H. Baker, Chas. A. Stoddard and E. C. Davis as clerks, and has made the Narragansett the 'Mecca' for all who appreciate good living. With all these advantages at command; with, in addition, telegraph and telephone offices, postoffices, bookstands, cardstands, hackstands, railway ticket offices, theater ticket offices, and a hundred other conveniences, the hotel proprietor of the present day undertakes to do everything for his guests except to clothe them and pay their bills.
illustration on page 120: The Narragansett Hotel (engraving)
p. 120:J. K. VOSHELL, Superintendent for Providence and Vicinity, Industrial Department, John Hancock Mutual Insurance Company, of Boston, No. 87 Weybosset Street. -- No life insurance corporation has been managed with more consummate ability as the John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company of Boston. It embarked in the new and untried field of industrial insurance in 1876, and its management has since that time developed the most admirable system in existence for the insuring of the multitude on the basis of small weekly payments. It has met with the most remarkable success, as the outcome of thorough organization, talented management and honorable, prompt and liberal business methods. This company is represented in Providence by Mr. J. K. Voshell, as superintendent for the State of Rhode Island, with headquarters at No. 87 Weybosset Street. Mr. Voshell has been connected with this company for the past twelve years, starting as a solicitor when but seventeen years old, and three years later became assistant general manager, steadily winning his way by sheer merit and force of character, and was made manager here in 1887. He has therefore, a foundation understanding of all the details of the business, and has proved himself eminently successful in meeting the demands of policy holders and in advancing the interests of the company. Industrial or burial fund insurance is one of the most surprising developments of modern life insurance. It may be called a growth of the times, and the increasing demand for it is one of the most encouraging features in the industrial world at the present time. The method of operation may be briefly stated thus: All healthy members of the family of both sexes, over one year, and not over seventy years of age, are accepted. The insurances range from $14 to $1,000, and the weekly premium from 5 to 50 cents. The premiums are collected by agents of the company, who call weekly. Immediate payment is made in case of death, the idea being that the necessity is felt at once for ready money, and that any delay whatever in payment is a hardship. Thus, the benefit becomes what it was intended to be - a funeral fund. The John Hancock now has five times as many policies in force as have all the other Massachusetts life insurance companies combined. It has paid over to its policy holders, the sum of $10,000,000, and is the only company which has ever paid a dividend to its industrial policy holders. All classes of life and endowment policies are issued by this company, in addition to its industrial insurance, and it is known as issuing a more liberal policy than any other company. Its total assets now amount to $4,385,866.00, and its solidity and permanency is beyond question. Mr. Voshell, the superintendent for Rhode Island, wrote $1,656,198.00 in new business in 1891, with premiums amounting to $100,000.00, a record of which he has just reason to be proud. He is a prominent member of the Life Underwriters' Association, and second vice-president of the same, and was delegate to Detroit at the meeting of the National Association, in 1891. He operates branch offices at Woonsocket and Pawtucket, employs some sixty solicitors over the State, and is promoting the interests of the company with energy, industry and decided success.
p. 120:JOHN A. O'NEILL, Successors to Isaac S. Cole, Fine Tailoring, Latest Novelties from Home and Foreign Markets, Fine Woolens, Worsted Coatings and Fancy Vesting, No. 312 Westminster Street, and No. 326 Main Street, Pawtucket. - For a superior and stylish article in ready-made clothing commend us to the establishment of Mr. John A. O'Neill, located at No. 312 Westminster Street. The business of this reliable house was inaugurated in 1872, and the present proprietor succeeded Isaac S. Cole, in 1891. A store 25 x 100 feet in dimensions is occupied, which is handsomely furnished and contains a large stock of the finest foreign and domestic woolens, worsted coatings and fancy vestings, comprising always the latest fashionable novelties in pattern and shade for each incoming season. From twenty-five to thirty experienced hands are employed and suits are made ranging in prices from $20 to $80. The garments produced here are of unsurpassable excellence, both as regards fit, durability and style. The reputation of the house is so high that the proprietor cannot afford to let imperfect or inferior work leave the establishment, and nothing is delivered to patrons but what can be guaranteed to be perfect in every respect. The special rule of the house is to make no mistakes in fitting, and at the same time to have all orders finished at No. 326 Main Street, Pawtucket, which is handsomely fitted and thoroughly stocked with a superior line of goods. This store enjoys the reputation of conducting the largest tailoring business in the State, outside of Providence, and was established four years ago by Mr. O'Neill. His trade is large and increasing throughout the State. He is a native of Massachusetts, but has resided in this State for the past twenty years. He is a member of the Foresters, and the Lyceum and Etna Society of Pawtucket.
p. 122:J. T. THORPE, Wholesale Stationer, No. 11 Custom House Street. -- It is only when making a careful review of each individual establishment engaged in promoting the manufacturing and commercial interests of Providence that one is forcibly reminded of the magnitude, importance, and success of many enterprises which appear to be quite trivial to the superficial observer. An excellent exemplification of this statement is the well-known, ably-managed, and reliable house of Mr. J. T. Thorpe, wholesale stationer, centrally located at No. 11 Custom House Street, opposite the Post Office, which has acquired a most enviable reputation in consequence of the superiority of its goods and liberal business methods. This popular and enterprising gentleman is a native of England, and has been a resident of the United States since 1875. Acquiring a thorough knowledge of this line of trade, he inaugurated this enterprise on his own responsibility in Boston in 1882, and continued it there with excellent success until 1887, when he removed to this city and established himself at the present address, and by close attention to the wants of the trade, handling none but first-class goods, and adhering strictly to honorable dealings, he soon built up a very liberal and substantial trade, wholesale in its character, and extending throughout this and adjacent States. The premises occupied are spacious, commodious, and admirably adapted to the wants of the trade, comprising a finely-appointed office and store, with large storehouse adjoining for the storage of his large stock. The assortment carried embraces everything in the line of stationery goods, such as account books of all descriptions, counting-room supplies, including the choicest grades of foreign and domestic flat papers, fine correspondence papers and envelopes, gold, steel, and stylographic pens; pencils, crayons, and inks of all kinds; law-office, school-room, and typewriters' supplies; ink stands and wells, letter copying presses and books, plain and perpetual calendars, fine cutlery, choice stationery novelties; in fact everything known to this line of business. He also carries in season a full assortment of the latest novelties in fireworks. These goods are from the most celebrated manufacturers known to the trade, and as the stock is always full and complete buyers cannot fail to obtain what they want at the very lowest prices. Mr. Thorpe is a young man of superior business ability, courteous, industrious, and prompt in all his dealings, and justly merits the success he has attained by his ability and perseverance.
p. 122:W. A. PHILLIPS, Real Estate Auctioneer, Notary Public, Mortgage and Insurance Broker, Waterman's Block, Olneyville Square. -- The important business of the real estate, mortgage, and insurance broker has its leading representative in this section in Mr. W. A. Phillips, whose office is in Waterman's Block, Olneyville Square. Mr. Phillips is one of Rhode Island's most prominent and widely-known citizens. He was born in Old North Providence, near Olneyville, in 1842, and since youth his life has been an active, busy, and interesting one. In 1861, at the outbreak of the war, he enlisted as a private in the Fourth R.I. Volunteers, and was then in his nineteenth year. He served under Burnside and with the Army of the Potomac, taking part in many important engagements, and gained promotion to the rank of Sergeant-Major. He is prominently identified with the Grand Army of the Republic, being a member of Slocum Post, No. 10, and is Past Judge Advocate General for the Department of Rhode Island. He has held town positions since he was twenty-one years of age; was for five years clerk of the Eighth District court, fifteen years a trial justice, and in 1871 was appointed Moderator of the town, and still holds that position. For sixteen years he held the position of Superintendent of Public Schools, while for thirteen years he was on the school committee. In fraternal orders he is likewise prominent, being Post Grand of Manufacturers' Lodge of Odd Fellows, a member of the Good Fellows, Ancient Order of United Workmen; and in social organizations, a member of the West Side Club, Providence Athletic Club, treasurer of the Providence Press Club four years, member Board of Underwriters, etc. Mr. Phillips represents the American Fire Insurance Co., of New Jersey; Hamburg-Bremen, of Germany; the Manchester, of England; and conducts extensive operations as a real estate autioneer, notary public, mortgage and insurance broker, doing business in all parts of the State. All transactions are carried out upon the most honorable and equitable basis, and all patrons of Mr. Phillips have their interests promoted in the most judicious manner.
p. 122:PARKER'S PERFECTED SHOE POLISH, a Perfect Shine in All Weather, Wet or Dry, Manufactured by the Parker Manufacturing Co., No. 140 Harrison Street. -- A success-deserving establishment which has been in operation in this city for over a year past is that of the Parker Manufacturing Company, at No. 140 Harrison Street. The proprietors are Mr. Geo. A. Parker, the practical man of the concern, and Mr. Wm. W. Ricker, a prominent real estate agent of this city. Mr. Parker was born in New Hampshire, and for the past fifteen years has been engaged at the tool-making trade, the last four of which have been passed in this city. Although a young man, he has already achieved considerable fame as an inventor, having produced some thirty-five inventions, most of them machine tools, but also quite a number for use on bicycles, including the well-known ball-bearing device now used on safety bicycles. He has likewise invented letter boxes, shoe polish, stove polish, door knobs, water meters, and a number of hardware specialties, and one which he is specially introducing is Parker's Perfected Shoe Polish, which insures a perfect shine in all weather, wet or dry. Most of these inventions are patented. His Patent Burglar Proof Door Knob is a decided success; also his Lawn Hose Support, which is very popular; and the company is just getting under way for their manufacture. The works are equipped with steam power and all requisite machinery, and every facility is possessed for the successful prosecution of the enterprise. All information regarding the specialties made here is cheerfully furnished on application, and orders from any part of the United States are promptly filled.
p. 123:PETER DEHN, Artistic Gilder and Picture-framer, No. 45 Eddy Street. -- The popular house of Peter Dehn, artistic gilder and picture-framer, was established in 1878, and is eligibly located at No. 45 Eddy Street. Mr. Dehn manufactures and gilds picture-frames, regilds old frames and restores paintings and engravings. These picture-frames are unrivaled for quality, elegance and finish, and have no superiors in this country. The salesroom is handsomely fitted up and a large stock is kept constantly on hand, to the end that no delays may be experienced in the prompt filling of orders. The goods are in great demand by the trade, which is with the leading dealers of Rhode Island. Mr. Dehn is a native of Germany, but came to the United States in 1874, after having traveled in Australia, South America and other parts of the world. He was for six years engaged in this line in Boston, but for the past twelve years has been in Providence, where he is highly esteemed for his artistic skill, enterprise and integrity.
p. 123:EDWIN A. CALDER, Pharmacist, Nos. 287 and 289 High Street. -- The business of this pharmacy has been in successful operation for more than a quarter of a century, and was originally founded by the present proprietor. This store, which is 30 x 45 feet in dimensions, is perfectly appointed throughout with every convenience and facility requisite for the purposes of the business, and it presents that attractive appearance associated with a thoroughly equipped establishment of this character. It is fully stocked with a fine assortment of pure and fresh drugs and chemicals, pharmaceutical preparations, surgical instruments, all popular and desirable proprietary remedies, wines, and liquors, toilet and fancy articles, perfumes, etc., all of which have been most carefully selected from the most reputable sources of supply. Special attention is given to the compounding of physicians' prescriptions and family recipes, in the preparation of which only the most reliable ingredients are used, while every precaution is taken to secure the most perfect accuracy. Mr. Calder also puts up a general line of pharmaceutical compounds, makes his own tinctures, syrups, etc., as many as twenty different kinds of fluid extracts being prepared by him, and altogether he enjoys the highest reputation throughout professional circles as a thoroughly proficient and responsible druggist and apothecary. His experience in this business dates back to 1856, and he comes from a well-known family of druggists in this community, where he was born and brought up. He is a member of the Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Association, the G. A. R., and many social orders, and he not only served in our late war for some time, but for nearly two years was on the Medical Hospital Staff in the service of the United States Army.
p. 123:LOTHROP & CUNNINGHAM, Artistic Photography, No. 357 Westminster Street. -- Among the most skillful and best-known photograph artists of Providence, there are none enjoying a higher reputation for superior work than the firm of Lothrop & Cunningham. Their studio is fitted up with neatness and good taste in an elegant style, the reception-parlors and dressing-rooms containing every facility and convenience, while the operating department is provided with all the latest and most improved appliances known to the profession. The most artistic photographs of all kinds, sizes and styles are here produced, and that these gentlemen are familiar with all the details of picture and portrait making, one glance through their studio readily demonstrates. In addition to photographs, special attention is given to finishing portraits in oil, water-colors, ink, crayon and pastel, and all the work performed here bears the impress of the master-artist, perfect satisfaction being guaranteed in every instance. This firm have also conducted a similar gallery at No. 112 Merrimac Street, Lowell, Mass., for the past five years, and their large and flourishing patronage extends through Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts, while specimens of their work are seen throughout the entire country. The business which they assumed control of in this city during the past year, was originally founded as far back as 1872, by Mr. B. F. Jones, who carried it on most successfully up to 1886, at which time Mr. T. D. Burrell became his successor. This gentleman the present proprietors succeeded, and in their studio here are ably assisted in their work by ten efficient assistants. Messrs. Lothrop and Cunninham were born in the State of Maine, and are practical and experienced young business man of push, honor and sagacity.
p. 123:P. A. SWEENEY, Cash Tailor, Fine Woolen and Worsed Novelties in Great Variety, No. 296 Westminster Street. -- A prominent and popular tailoring establishment for fashionable, civic and military garments is that of Mr. P. A. Sweeney, the cash tailor, No. 296 Westminster Street. This establishment was opened by the present proprietor in the spring of 1881, and has earned for itself the distinction of being one of the most popular and reliable houses in the city. The store is considered one of the finest fitted on this crowded thoroughfare, and the large and varied stock of goods displayed, consists of all the reliable manufactories, both in this country and in Europe, in woolen and worsted fabrics. The trade is derived from an excellent class of citizens, and extends all over the State. The services of thirty-five skilled assistants are required in the operation of the business, while the cutting department is under the direct supervision of the proprietor, who enjoys the reputation of being one of the skilled cutters of New England. One of the leading specialties of the house is military work of all descriptions, a line in which Mr. Sweeney has no superior in the State, being connected with the militia in Rhode Island for the past eleven years, and at the present time is the popular captain and commander of Company H, of the 2d Regiment of Infantry, R. I. M., and he handles a large amount of the business, both for the State and its officers. Mr. Sweeney is also connected with the Ancient Order of Foresters and other benevolent organizations.
Continued
Transcribed 2000 by Beth Hurd
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