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. 124:EDGAR BAKER, Choice Teas, Coffees and Spices, No. 201 High Street. -- The trade in teas and coffees is well represented in this city by Mr. Edgar Baker, who established this business during the past year. The premises, which consist of a handsome store, 20 x 40 feet in dimensions, are admirably adapted to the purposes of the business, and are complete and perfect in their arrangement, while two courteous assistants are in constant attendance. An immense stock of the choicest qualities of teas, coffees and spices is carried, all of most delicate and delicious flavor and superior strength, and as this business is conducted upon the policy of small profits and quick sales, the prices quoted are at all times moderate. Mr. Baker is an excellent judge of articles handled, and he is always in a position to place before his customers the choicest and best grade of goods that are brought into the country, all orders for which are promptly filled at short notice. He is an examplary business man with whom to trade, and those favoring his house once with their custom will remain patrons always. Born in Central Falls, Rhode Island, he has been brought up in this city, and for nearly a quarter of a century, previous to embarking in his present enterprise, was engaged in the jewelry business with the well-known manufacturing house of B. Daggert & Co.
p. 124:C. H. JEFFERDS & CO., Commission Merchants, Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Meat, and Provisions, Etc., Nos. 47 and 49 North Main Street. -- One of the largest and most liberally patronized houses in its line in this section of the city is that of Messrs. C. H. Jefferds & Co., wholesale and retail dealers in meats and provisions, whose establishment is eligibly located at Nos. 47 and 49 North Main, southeast corner Waterman Street, adjoining Baptist Church. This reliable house was established in 1875, the present proprietors succeeding to the control in 1885. The store and market is one of the finest and best appointed in the city, provided with every improvement for the perfect preservation of perishable articles for an indefinite period, and spacious in size, well stocked and ably managed. Their refrigerator is the largest in the city, with a capacity of sixteen tons of ice, and occupies a space 14 feet wide by 50 feet long and 14 feet high. The firm deal exclusively in meat of all kinds, poultry and game in season, and are also packers of pork and beef tongues. The management is in possession of the best possible facilities for procuring supplies from the most reputable sources, which enable it to offer to customers fresh and first-class goods at prices that preclude successful competition. Only the best stock is handled, and the greatest skill and experience is brought to bear in selecting the requisite goods, and orders are promptly filled and the goods delivered without unnecessary delay. The exigencies of the business necessitate the employment of fifteen skilled assistants, and five delivery wagons are kept running. The members of the firm are Messrs. Chas. H. Jefferds and Wm. H. Gay, the former a native of Vermont and a resident of this city for thirty years, and from 1864 to 1882 he was connected with Calif Brothers; while Mr. Gay is a native of Providence, his father being one of the pioneer marketmen and established one of the oldest markets on North Main Street in 1840, which is now carried on by Messrs. Calif Brothers. Both gentlemen are active members of the Butchers' and Marketmen's Association, and are thoroughly informed as to the requirements of their trade and know how best to meet its every demand.
p. 124:J. L. TIFT, Live Bait, Fresh and Salt Water Fish, Clams, Oysters, Lobsters, Etc., No. 12 Cranston Street. - The seafood business conducted by Mr. J. L. Tift is one of the largest in this section of Providence. The trade consists in supplying dealers, markets, and other wholesale consumers, as well as a legion of private families, boarding-houses, restaurants, clubs and hotels. The enterprise was established in 1874 by Messrs. A. S. Doyle & Co., and came into the hands of the present proprietor five years ago. Every facility is possessed for placing upon the market all kinds of fresh and salt water fish, clams, lobsters, oysters, eels, etc., in prime and perfectly fresh condition, and thus a large volume of sales has accrued, aggregating two tons of fish, etc. every week. The store, 20 x 60 feet in size, is well fitted and fully equipped for handling and keeping the heavy stock usually on hand, three competent assistants being there regularly employed. Mr. Tift was born in Connecticut and came to this city in 1874. He is a member of the Improved Order of Red Men, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, the Iron Hall and the Order of Tonti, as also of Prescott Post of the Grand Army of the Republic, and he served during the late war in the 21st Connecticut Volunteer Infantry for three years as a private in the Army of the Potomac.
p. 124:JOHN H. WALSH & CO., Furnishing Undertakers and Embalmers, Office and Residence, No. 888 High Street. -- The popular undertaking establishment of Messrs. John H. Walsh & Co. was founded in 1882, and no similar establishment is better prepared for furnishing or directing funerals. A complete supply of funeral goods is always on hand, including coffins, caskets and metallic burial-cases, ranging in value from the plainest to the most costly. Every necessary article may here be obtained. In embalming, the latest and best processes are employed. Great dispatch is used in answering calls, the office being open day and night for the accommodation of the public. The office is connected by telephone and orders by call, No. 3928-4, will receive prompt attention. Mr. Walsh is a native of Providence, and is well fitted for the delicate duties devolving on this profession. He was formerly a carpenter and builder and spent ten years working at that trade in South Providence before establishing this business. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Catholic Knights of America, the Foresters and the Undertakers' Association.
p. 125:PROVIDENCE BLANK BOOK MANUFACTORY, H. M. Coombs & Co., Proprietors, No. 37 Custom House Street. -- A prominent position is justly accorded the Providence Blank Book Manufactory, which was first established on Westminster Street in 1860, by the senior member of the firm, and has occupied its present desirable location at No. 37 Custom House Street for the past twenty years. The premises occupied comprise two floors, 60 x 100 feet in dimensions, thoroughly equipped with all necessary machinery operated by steam-power, and employment is furnished to forty skilled workmen. The house leads all others in the making and ruling of blank books for special purposes, and everything in the line of bookbinding is here satisfactorily executed. The resources and facilities of the house enable it to quote the lowest prices consistent with a sound and legitimate business policy. The productions of the house are splendid specimens of artistic work. The trade of the house is large and extends throughout New England, and the utmost satisfaction is given in the execution of every order. The members of the firm are Mr. H. M. Coombs, who is a native of Maine, and N. J. Smith of Rhode Island, and have been associated together since 1875. They are thoroughly experienced in the business, and are responsible, progressive and untiring in their efforts to serve the public acceptably. Mr. Coombs is a prominent Odd Fellow and was grand master of the order in Rhode Island in 1883, and is also a past chancellor of the Knights of Pythias.
p. 124:A. A. SAMMIS, Hardware, No. 185 Broad Street. -- The well-known house of Mr. A. A. Sammis was established by Mr. J. Eddy in 1842, and is consequently one of the oldest in its line in the city. The house has had many changes of proprietors in the intervening years, the present proprietor succeeding to the control in 1883. The premises occupied comprise a store and basement 25 x 100 feet in dimensions, which contains a heavy stock of builders' hardware of every description. These goods are received direct from the most reputable sources, and are offered at prices rarely duplicated elsewhere, while the high quality on which their popularity depends is sedulously maintained. Mr. Sammis is a native of Providence and has been with this house since 1870, and is eminently qualified to prosecute the business and to continue its record for fair and honorable dealing. A first-class stock is always carried, and customers are invariably guaranteed satisfaction in the case of each and every purchase.
p. 125:JOHN M. BATTEY, Carpenter and Builder, No. 82 Weybosset Street. -- One of the best-known carpenters and builders in Providence is Mr. John M. Battey. A specialty of his business consists in the supply of electric-light poles and cross-arms at short notice; and in this connection it may be noted that besides executing all the woodwork on the Narragansett Electric Light Station, the whole of the electric-light poles and crossbeams for that company throughout the city and vicinity, numbering about five thousand in all, were made by Mr. Battey. The business was established by himself seventeen years ago, and the chief lines undertaken are the complete fitting up of banks, stores, offices and other business premises, the making of signs of all kinds, every description of jobbing and repairing and the fine work in hardwoods generally, while estimates are at all times cheerfully furnished upon application for the erection of any kind of structure, from the most elaborate residence to the plainest barn. Fifteen skilled mechanics are regularly employed, and the workshop, 20 x 50 feet in size, is fully equipped for turning out the best work. Mr. Battey is a native of Rhode Island, and has twenty-seven years' experience in the trade at his command. He is a member of eighteen different societies, as well as of Slocum Post of the Grand Army of the Republic, and for three years served in the First Rhode Island Light Artillery, from 1860 to 1864 being a non-commissioned officer in the Army of the Potomac, under the five different generals who had charge.
p. 125:BERNARD McGUINNESS, Real Estate, Mortgages and Insurance, No. 18 Westminster Street. -- Choice and eligibly located parcels of property in Providence and surrounding vicinity are now, more than ever, being sought for by conservative capitalists, both for speculative and investment purposes; and in making their selections, they rely greatly upon the advice, experience and superior knowledge of our principal agents and brokers. A prominent, prosperous and responsible house engaged in this business in Providence, maintaining a most enviable reputation for honorable business methods, is that of Mr. Bernard McGuinness. This enterprising gentleman is a native of Ireland, but has been a highly-respected resident of this city since 1848, and having a wide range of experience, coupled with an intimate knowledge of the values of property in the various residential and business portions of this city and its surroundings, he inaugurated this enterprise on his own account in 1874, and at once developed a very large and influential following, numbering among his patrons many of our leading capitalists, investors and operators, who consider him a reliable authority on present and prospective values. His office is provided with every convenience for the information and comfort of patrons. He is prepared to transact a general real estate business, buying, selling, exchanging and renting all kinds of city and suburban real estate, collecting rents and incomes, and paying taxes and assessments. He gives personal attention to the management of estates, securing responsible tenants and effecting judicious repairs when required. Loans on bond and mortgage are negotiated satisfactorily upon the most advantageous terms to both lender and borrower, and insurance risks are placed in the best and soundest insurance companies at the lowest rates of premium. He makes a specialty of selling real estate at auction and his services are in great demand. Being a notary public he is prepared to exercise all the functions of that office according to the requirements of law.
p. 126:JOHN EVANS, Machinist, Builder of Low-pressure Steam-heating Apparatus, Dealer in Wrought-iron Pipe and Fittings, Shaftings, Pulleys, Hangers, Etc., No. 207 Dyer Street. -- The use of steam for heating buildings, has become so well understood, and during the last few years has made such rapid advances in public favor, that it seems unnecessary to prove its superiority over all other methods in vogue. The hot-air furnaces in all sections of the country are rapidly giving way to steam, having failed to supply the demand for a general diffusion of heat in dwellings, churches, schools, etc. The recognized leader in the manufacture of steam-heating apparatus in Providence is Mr. John Evans, whose office and factory are at No. 207 Dyer Street. This gentleman has been connected with this branch of industry for full forty years, and established his business here in 1884. His workshop is 60 x 150 feet in size, supplied with steam-power and all modern machinery, and every possible facility is at hand for conducting all operations under the most favorable conditions, and upon the largest scale. Mr. Evans has aimed to produce a steam boiler which should be both effective and cheap, and the results prove his great and gratifying success. His boiler is superior to all others in many respects, insuring great economy in fuel, and is also the lowest in price. Estimates are furnished and contracts are taken for boilers or entire apparatus, while all sizes suitable for all size buildings are manufactured, from the smallest to the largest. A large amount of work has been done by Mr. Evans all through New England, and among users of the Evans Steam Boiler in this city may be named the Broadway M. E. Church, Hotel Dresden, Hotel St. George, Turnverein Society Hall, John Turner, N. B. Harris, Elisha Evans, Thos. Booth, Geo. Miller, S. T. Smith, C. F. Handy & Co., and Weeks Bros., among hundreds of others. Mr. Evans is a native of England, a resident of this country for the past twenty-three years, a member of the Knights of Honor, and an enterprising, successful business man, highly esteemed for his genius and skill as an inventor and manufacturer, and for his strict integrity. He is ably assisted in the management of affairs by his son, Mr. Wm. Evans, a well-known member of the Commandery, F. and A. M., the I. O. O. F. Encampment, and the Knights of Honor, and a gentleman of wide acquaintance and deserved popularity.
p. 126:W. E. BARRETT & CO., Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Seeds, Farming Tools and Wooden-ware, No. 87 Canal Street. -- As it need scarcely be stated, the wholesale handling of farm and garden seeds constitutes a department of commercial activity of very substantial proportions in every important center of trade and industry. The leading dealers in this line in Providence are Messrs. W. E. Barrett & Co., who are also manufacturers, wholesale and retail dealers in all kinds of agricultural implements, wooden-ware, etc., with headquarters at Nos. 65 to 87 Canal Street This is one of the oldest, largest and best-equipped establishements of the kind in the State, while the connections of the firm are of a thoroughly substantial and influential character, affording evidence each year of constant and material increase. The business was founded in 1844, by Messrs. Burdick & Barrett, the present style being adopted in 1862. The building occupied for sale purposes contain twenty-two floors, 75 x 100 feet each, giving unequaled accommodations for supplying the most extensive demand, while a well-equipped factory is operated on Burgess Street. In the important department devoted to vegetable, field and flower seeds, this firm are recognized as excelling all their contemporaries in this section of the country. All their seeds are grown with the greatest care, from the purest and choicest stocks known, in localities where long experience has demonstrated they can be produced to perfection. Among their standard specialties are Squantum sweet corn, improved white seeded Tennis Ball lettuce, the 'Maud S.' peas, Stratagem pea, Bliss ever-bearing pea, Giant Pascal celery, Eclipse beet, Boston Market celery, Henderson's White Plume celery, new Stone tomato, Henderson's New Bush Lima beans, the Peach tomato, Chantenay carrot, Henderson's Succession cabbage, Low's Bay State squash, 'Budlong' White Rock turnip, Palmento asparagus, Green and Gold watermelon, Thornburn's Gilt-edge cauliflower, Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage, Yellow Globe Danvers onion, etc. Their stock of agricultural and horticultural implements is also complete and varied, embracing all the newest and latest designs, a great many of which are manufactured by this firm, in which industry they have had a large experience. Their leading specialties include the National Reversible sulky-plow, the Yankee swivel-plow, the Conical plow, Imperial plow, potato growers' plow and fertilizer combined, Bell's center-cut disc harrow, Triumph spading harrows, the La Dow Yankee pulverizer, the 'Reliable' all-steel spring-tooth harrow, Clipper smoothing harrow, Shares' steel teeth harrow, Michigan wheelbarrow seeder, Kemp's patent manure spreader, Aspinwall potato planter, Pruyn potato digger, Spangler broadcast fertilizer distributor, Eclipse corn planter and fertilizer distributor combined, Breed's Universal weeder, A. H. Mathews' garden drill, Gem hand wheel hoe, 'Planet Jr.' hill dropping garden drill, New England horse hoe, Worcester New Model Buckeye mower, Gazelle self-operating sulky rake, Yankee hoserake, Keystone hay loader, Philadelphia lawn mower, the Cooley creamers, Pray's ice plow, among many others. The goods go to all parts of the United States, and hundreds of agriculturalists and expert buyers all over the country depend upon this house for their yearly supplies, proving that their patrons are guaranteed entire satisfaction in every transaction. A corps of talented salesmen represent the interests of the house upon the road, and orders of whatever magnitude are filled with promptness and scrupulous care, while terms and prices are made invariably satisfactory to buyers. The management is composed of the estate of W. E. Barrett & Co., Messrs. George W. Williams, W. A. Fisk and George F. Williams. Mr. George W. Williams came into the firm in 1862, Mr. Fisk has been a member since 1874, and Mr. George F. Williams was admitted on the first of January, 1892. All are representative merchants and successful business men, well worthy of every trust and confidence.
facing page: photograph "Benefit Street, showing new Court House."
p. 128:M. H. CURLEY, Cabinet-maker and Upholsterer, No. 208 North Main Street. -- Mr. M. H. Curley now ranks among the older and more reliable cabinet-makers and upholsters in Providence. With thirty-five years' practical experience at his command in cabinet-making. Mr. Curley is enabled to meet the requirements of his many patrons with accuracy and the best taste in all kinds of cabinet-work, and in this branch a specialty is made of antique furniture, which is bought, sold or repaired on the most fair and reasonable terms in every case. In addition all kinds of upholstery are undertaken, such as parlor and dining-room suites, easy-chairs, lounges, sofas, etc., in the finest materials and the latest styles; a branch of the business in which especial satisfaction is always given. The store and well-equipped workshop contain a large and carefully selected stock of furniture, cabinet-work, and upholstered goods, and three skilled assistants are there regularly employed. The business has been established for the past fifteen years, under the able and very successful direction of the present proprietor, Mr. H. M. Curley. Mr. Curley is a member of the Catholic Knights of America, now fifty years of age, and served for nine months, during the late war, in the Eleventh Rhode Island Volunteer Infantry.
p. 128:ALVIN B. CHANDLER, Fine Steel Stamps, No. 121 Broad Street. - Mr. Chandler has for twenty years been engaged in this business, having been for ten years with E. Reynolds & Co., as foreman. The premises occupied are spacious and commodious, and are equipped with all necessary machinery and appliances. A specialty is made of lettering dies and hubs, and of the manufacture of steel letter punches, brass stamps, lodge seals, rubber stamps, etc. Mr. Chandler has the best of facilities for promptly filling orders, and the trade of the house extends to all parts of the United States. The character of the work here is strictly first-class, and the goods are in great demand wherever introduced. The work of this house is the most perfect in the market, and as a means of effectiveness is found to be invaluable. Mr. Chandler is a native of Alabama, but has been a resident of this city for fourteen years.
p. 128:SOUTHWICK & CRITCHLEY, Bureau of Natural History, Naturalists and Taxidermists, Dealers in Mammal and Bird Skins, Eggs, Minerals, Shells, and all Naturalists' Supplies, No. 258 Westminster Street. -- Messrs. Southwick & Critchley enjoy the reputation of being among the most expert naturalists and taxidermists, not only in this city but throughout the United States. They execute as fine and as difficult work in taxidermy, as can be done in America. Mr. Critchley is especially famous in this line; specimens of his work are to be found in the finest museums in the country. The celebrated elephant, Jumbo, which was exhibited by the great showman, P. T. Barnum, was stuffed by Mr. Critchley, and is now in Tufts College, where the lion on exhibition there is the work of Mr. Critchley. Messrs. Southwick & Critchley have lately done work for Central Park, Albany, Buffalo, St. Johnsbury, Vt., Cambridge, Mass., Portland, Me., and in fact, wherever delicate and life-like work in this line has been wanted. They use forms and pull skin over, and it is difficult, at first, to tell that the animals are no longer in the land of the living. The firm was originally Southwick & Jenks, and first started in 1877; then Mr. Southwick carried on the business alone, until two years ago, when Mr. Critchley came into the firm. They have always been on Westminster Street, occupying the present premises since 1882, where they have two large floors, 25 x 100 feet; employ a corps of competent assistants, and carry an unusually heavy stock of goods. Mr. J. M. Southwick is a native of Massachusetts, who has made Rhode Island his home for the past thirty years; while Mr. J. W. Critchley is an Englishman by birth, who came to New York as an infant, and lived in the upper part of New York State until he came to Rhode Island two years ago. He is a man of wide experience in this line, who has given it sixteen years' careful attention, and has visited Europe to further his researches. The firm in now collecting all the animals and birds native to Rhode Island, to exhibit at the coming World's Fair. They have 170 species now ready for this event, and their intention is to secure many others.
p. 128:J. C. DODGE & SON, Manufacturers of and Dealers in Doors, Sash, Blinds, Window-frames, Brackets, Etc., Nos. 378 and 450 South Main Street. -- The Messrs. Dodge are manufacturers of and dealers in doors, sash, blinds, etc., and are also wood-workers for the trade. They have a large and flourishing business, and their patronage, which extends throughout the State, is constantly growing. The planing-mill, etc., on South Main Street, occupy a 60 x 150 two-story structure, equipped with steam-power, improved machinery, etc., and the firm have another shop, besides on South Water Street. They manufacture everything in the line above-indicated, employing fifteen to twenty or more in help, and keep on hand always a large stock of sash, doors, blinds, window-frames, brackets, moldings and turned stuff. Sash, doors, blinds, etc., are made to order in any desired size, at short notice, and wood turning, scroll and jig sawing, etc., are done for the trade in the most superior manner, all orders receiving prompt attention. This well-known firm was established in 1869, and during the twenty-three years since intervening has enjoyed an uninterrupted career of prosperity. The offices and salerooms at No. 378 comprise a two-story building 30 x 100 feet in dimensions. The senior member is a native of Rhode Island and has been a resident of Providence for half a century, his son, H. H. Dodge being a native of this city. Both are men of practical skill, thoroughly conversant with every branch of the business, and sustain an excellent reputation in the trade. Mr. Dodge, the younger, bears a creditable war record, too, serving in the navy from 1861 to 1864, and is a member of the G. A. R. Post 20.
p. 129:T. J. FALES, Manufacturer of Sails, Awnings, Tents, Flags, Etc., South Water and Ward Streets. -- A well-known and old-established sailmaker in this city is Mr. T. J. Fales, located at the corner of South Water and Ward Streets, who is 'solid' with yachtsmen and owners of all kinds of sailing craft hailing from this and other Rhode Island ports, and receives a liberal patronage at their hands, as well as from other regular patrons throughout the State. During his twenty-four years' establishment in business, Mr. Fales has gained a wide popularity and high repute for turning out only the best quality of goods in each line, made from the most suitable canvas, etc., by expert hands; and he has embraced from time to time all the latest approved appliances and methods of manufacture as they have appeared, in order to keep well abreast of the progress of the age and thus compete successfully with rival houses. The chief branches of manufacture are all kinds, sizes and styles of sails, awnings, tents, flags, banners, bunting; wedding and other canopies, dancing crash; wagon, merchandise and horse covers; and in fact, anything that can be made out of canvas, oil duck cloth and similar materials; while repairing is also undertaken in all branches incidental to the trade. In addition, tents of all the usual sizes are always on hand for hire. The premise utilized - which have only just been assumed - consist of third floor, 30 x 60 feet in area, equipped with tools and appliances of that complete nature already hinted; upwards of sixteen skilled workers finding regular employment there. The worthy proprietor, Mr. T. J. Fales is a native of Bristol, R.I., and has resided here in Providence for the past thirty-five years. His practical experience as a sailmaker ranges over a similiar period, and he is a member of the Rhode Island Yacht Club, as also of the Mechanics' Exchange.
p. 129:J. F. WRIGHT, Stoves, Ranges and Repairs, No. 23 North Main Street. -- This business, which is the oldest in the vicinity and the only one in Providence, has been one uninterrupted sphere of continual success since its inception way back in 1853. At its establishment the house was known to the trade as Messrs. Boyd & Wright, under whose combined and successful management it continued until Mr. Boyd resigned. It was then named L. Wright & Co. Mr. L. Wright died in 1888, and his son, Mr. J. F. Wright, succeeded to the business, and, having been interested in the trade from the time he graduated, he continued to make it the genuine success it always was, and has been from the time it was founded. The commodious store, including a basement, at the above address, where the business has prospered for eleven years, is 25 x 80 feet in dimensions, and heavily stocked with an elegant array of every desirable pattern in stoves and ranges. The house sells to the trade principally. A specialty of the house consists of stove fittings, a complete line of which is carried. Mr. J. F. Wright was born in Anthony, town of Carpentry [sic - should be Coventry], Rhode Island, is thirty-eight years of age, and has resided in Providence for thirty-five years. He is highly connected, commercially and socially, in the vicinity, and is an active member of the Rhode Island Yacht Club, the Knights of Pythias and the F. and A. M.
p. 129:GEORGE A. PECKHAM, Proprietor of Peckham's Cough and Lung Balsam, Strengthening Porous Plasters, Condition Powders and Spices, Etc., No. 22 Peck Street. -- The house of George A. Peckham is one of those well-established and substantial concerns that do credit to the city of Providence. As manufacturers of and wholesale dealers in grocers' drugs, essences and extracts, this house is known afar. The business was established in 1862, and a large trade has long been enjoyed which extends all over the United States, but is especially large in New England. The premises occupied comprise a building with basement 20 x 40 feet in dimensions, which is fully supplied with all necessary appliances for the successful prosecution of the business. The warerooms are heavily stocked with all goods manufactured here, and those dealt it. These goods comprise Peckham's Cough and Lung Balsam, Strengthening Porous Plasters, Condition Powders and all kinds of spices, a specialty being made of grocers' shelf goods. All the goods here manufactured or sold are absolutely pure and guaranteed to be as represented. Ample capital is employed in the business, and the house consequently offers unsurpassed inducements to the trade. Mr. George Peckham, the proprietor, is a responsible and reliable business man, who by his ability and industry has built up an establishment which is fully prepared to battle on even terms with its most formidable competitors.
p. 129:J. T. FEARNEY, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Fresh and Salt Fish, Oysters, Lobsters, Clams, Wild Game, Etc., No. 23 Exchange Place. -- This business was established by Mr. Joseph G. Matthews in 1852, the present proprietor, who had been twenty-five years with the old house, succeeding in 1880. The premises occupied are of ample dimensions, and contain at all times a large stock of fresh and salt fish, oysters, lobsters, clams, and wild game, etc. The house is one of the oldest in its line here, and has acquired an enviable reputation. The trade of the house is both wholesale and retail, and is large and constantly increasing. The exigencies of the business necessitate the constant employement of six competent assistants. Mr. Fearney is a native of New York City, but has been in this city more or less since 1856. His experience in the business gives him peculiar advantages, while his high character is a sufficient assurance that all orders will be promptly filled. He is a member of the Granite State Building Association, the Knights of Honor, the Red Man and the A. O. U. W.
p. 130:L. C. STEVENSON, Licensed Plumber, Steam, Gas and Water Pipe Fitting, also General Jobbing, No. 47 Weybosset Street. This business was established in January, 1883, by Messrs. Stevenson & Hill, who were succeeded in 1886 by Messrs. Stevenson & Swift, and since 1887, the present proprietor has had sole control of affairs; his former partner, Mr. Swift, having done all the plumbing for the Narragansett Hotel. The trade controlled reaches throughout Rhode Island, and consists in contracts or new work, such as the supply and fitting of water-closets, baths, urinals, lavatories, etc., drainage and ventilation, as well as steam, gas and water pipe fiting, while general jobbing, in all branches incidental to the trade, receives the promptest attention. From ten to fifteen skilled mechanics are employed, and all work undertaken is personally supervised by the proprietor, who has a practical experience of eighteen years in the trade. The store and shop, 25 x 100 feet in area, are fully equipped for the purposes of the business, and a heavy stock of plumbers' supplies and requisites, sanitary appliances, etc., is always kept on hand. Mr. Stevenson is a native of North Carolina, and came to Providence in 1871.
p. 130:C. A. HOLMES, Coal and Wood, No. 443 High Street. -- Of the great staple products entering into general consumption, there is none more important than coal. Among the firms contributing most largely to the sum of general activity in the line in Providence, is that of C. A. Holmes, dealer in coal and wood, with general offices at No. 443 High Street, and who has a very large retail trade among the merchants and residents of this city. This enterprising and responsible house was established in 1883, by the present proprietor, and bounded at once into prominence and prosperity, and is prepared at all times to fill orders for any quantity of hard or soft coal, and wood cut and ready for use, in the most expeditious manner, at the very lowest possible prices, consistent with the cost. Mr. Holmes has had considerable experience in the trade, is a man of energy, and maintains a high standing in commercial life. His coalyard contains 15,000 square feet; he employs eight assistants, and has seven wagons on the road continually. He is a young man, a native of Connecticut, and has been a resident of the city for the past fifteen years.
p. 130:THE T. W. ROUNDS COMPANY, Manufacturers of Fine Coach and Single Harness, Nos. 101 to 109 North Main Street. -- The largest house in Rhode Island, engaged in the manufacture of fine coach and single harness, is that of the T. W. Rounds Company, of which Mr. T. W. Rounds is president, John B. Humphrey, vice-president, and T. E. Rounds, secretary and treasurer. This company was established in 1865, by T. W. Rounds, and incorporated this year under Rhode Island laws, with a capital stock of $100,000. The house carried on an extensive business for twenty years after its establishment, at South Main Street, but with the growth of the trade which it commanded, it was found necessary to remove to its present elegant and more commodious quarters, Nos. 101 to 109 South Main Street, which comprise four floors, of ample dimensions, while every modern facility is at hand for insuring rapid and perfect productions, as well as the prompt and satisfactory fulfillment of all orders. The company's salesrooms are the handsomest of their kind in New England, and the stock is one of the largest and finest in the city or State, embracing single and double harness, riding saddles, whips, robes, horse-clothing, and all kinds of horse furnishing-goods, from a bit to a blanket. Nothing but the very best leather, trimmings and mountings, are used by this house, whose motto is, 'There is nothing in the world like leather'; while none but skilled workmen, of whom this house keep thirty constantly busy, are employed. The retail trade of the company is brisk and lively, while in addition to those goods already enumerated, this house manufactures a large line of horse boots, and carry a complete general line of turf goods, etc. The officers of this enterprising company are thoroughly practical and reliable, and are gentlemen well known throughout commercial circles.
Transcriber's Note:
T. W. Rounds is still in business: http://www.twrounds.com/ "Fine Luggage and Leather Goods since 1865"
p. 130:W. E. LOVEGROVE, Tin Plate and Sheet-Iron Worker, Plumber and Gasfitter, Agent for Barstow Stove Company's Goods, Together With a Large Assortment of Other First-class Furnaces and Ranges, Etc., No. 411 High Street. -- An old-established and reliable tin plate and sheet-iron worker, engaged in this city, is the responsible house of W. E. Lovegrove, located at No. 411 High Street, which is well known for turning out the best and most satisfactory work, at fair and reasonable prices, in each branch of the trade. The business was established in 1868, by the present proprietor, who possesses a long and varied practical experience in the trade, ranging over a period of forty years, and personally superintends the prompt and accurate fulfillment of all orders. A general line of tin plate and sheet-iron work is undertaken for patrons all over Rhode Island, including tin roofing, factory work, jewelers' work, all kinds of jobbing, the putting in of hot-air flues, the fitting up of furnaces and ranges, complete with all piping and connections, etc., stock a large and carefully selected assortment of all first-class furnaces and ranges. The store, shop, etc., are well-fitted, commodious, and fully equipped, and the business in its several departments furnishes employment for from ten to twenty skilled workmen, according to the season of the year. Mr. W. E. Lovegrove, who is now fifty-eight years of age, is a member of the Slocum Post of the Grand Army of the Republic, and served for one year during the late war, in the 42d Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, with progressive distinction from private to acting commissioned officer.
p. 131:J. F. COMSTOCK & SONS, Wholesale Dealers in Fresh and Salt Beef, Nos. 216 and 220 Canal Street. -- This house is the largest in its line in New England, and well deserves its preeminence and pronounced success. It was founded in 1858, by Messrs. J. F. and A. Comstock, the present style being adopted in 1876. Mr. J. F. Comstock died in 1889, after a long, honorable and successful career, and the business has since been continued by Messrs. Andrew F., Walter J. and Wm. A. H. Comstock, without change in the firm-name. The present premises have been occupied for the past ten years, and comprise a mammoth building having a ground area of half an acre, and which contains an ice-box holding over 150 tons of ice and some two carloads of meat, together with every modern facility for conducting operations under the most favorable auspices and upon the largest scale. From its inception this enterprise has proved a positive success, the general excellence and reliability and painstaking care displayed in the management being the chief elements contributing to this gratifying result. Consignments are regularly received in refrigerator cars from the 'Hammond' shipping stations in Chicago and Omaha, and the firm handle from ten to twelve carloads of dressed beef per week. The trade is supplied throughout Rhode Island in quantities to suit at the shortest possible notice, and the business is immense and influential in city and country, requiring in its transaction the services of fifteen men and seven delivery wagons. Terms and prices are made invariably satisfactory to buyers, and the house is deservedly popular with its wide circle of patrons. The Messrs. Comstock are natives of Rhode Island, and trained to this business from their early youth. Mr. Andrew Comstock was one of the founders of this house, and is now president of the Hammond Dressed Beef Co., of Chicago; also a director of the Commercial National Bank, of this city.
p. 131:CHAS. S. TANNER, Manufacturer of Starch and Gums, Wheat Starch a Specialty, Nos. 62, 63, 64 and 65 South Water Street. -- The business conducted by Chas. S. Tanner, manufacturer of starch and gums, Nos. 62 to 65 South Water Street, was established in 1869, by Orray A. Taft, Jr. & Co., who were succeeded in March, 1889, by the present proprietor. The starches and gums manufactured in this concern have gained a widespread reputation among textile manufacturers, calico printers, bleachers, and cotton goods converters, and are preparations of exceptional merit - none better on the market. Mr. Tanner manufacturers starches and gums of every description, for dressing yarns, calicos, prints, cotton cloths and other fabrics, making a specialty of wheat starches of high grade, and keeps on hand always a large stock. Every article leaving his establishment is warranted, while the prices quoted are notably low, quality of goods considered, and all orders are promptly and carefully attended to. Mr. Tanner was born in this State, and is a man of thorough experience in this line, fully conversant with the wants of the trade, and prior to assuming control of the business, had been with the former proprietors for twenty years, or since the house was established.
p. 131:GEO. M. GRAY, Tailor and Outfitter, No. 40 North Main Street. -- Although established as recently as November 1, 1891, Mr. George M. Gray, located in this city at No. 40 North Main Street, has already succeeded in accruing a large volume of business with the better class of regular patrons throughout Rhode Island, for fine custom-made garments, and for general outfitting goods; and he now enjoys a wide reputation for turning out clothing of the highest order of merit, alike as to lateness of style, surper fine materials, and superior finish. The prices charged range from $30 upwards for suits, and other goods equally reasonable. The stock of fabrics carried includes all the latest introductions in imported and domestic woolens, while in outfitting goods a specialty is made of ladies' and gentlemen's mackintoshes, in all styles, and of the better grades of quality. The premises at the location indicated consist of a handsomely furnished store, 15 x 60 feet in size, and a fully-equipped workshop in the rear; a large stock of fine woolens, worsteds, etc., and outfitting goods in general being always carried, each line being selected with the greatest care as to quality, durability and style. The custom tailoring department gives regular employment to twelve skilled cutters, fitters and operatives, and all orders are executed under the close supervision of the proprietor, who has eight years' experience in this line at his command. Mr. Gray is a native of Massachusetts, still a young man, and reached this city in 1881.
p. 131:ERNST. J. SCHMIDT, Interior Decorator and Designer, Fresco and Plain Painting, Paper Hanging, No. 15 Hay Street. -- For originality of conception, beauty of designs or thoroughly artistic workmanship in the line of interior decorating and painting, none in the business in Providence sustains a higher reputation than Ernst. J. Schmidt, No. 15 Hay Street. He is, in fact, the foremost exponent of the art in this city, and enjoys a very large and flattering patronage. The work executed by this gentleman is of a distinctly superior character, and many notable structures throughout this city and State, including a number of churches, attest his skill and reliability. Mr. Schmidt is a man about 36, and was born in Germany, coming to this country about ten years ago. He is an original designer of exceptional ability, and an expert fresco painter and decorator, master of his art in all its branches, and studied as an artist in Dresden University. He has been established three years, and from the first has been rapidly winning his way to favor and recognition. Mr. Schmidt employs a staff of competent workmen, and is prepared to give estimates on fresco and plain painting of every description, giving particular attention to high-class interior decorating and designing. Paper hanging is done also in the most excellent manner, and all work executed is warranted to render satisfaction, while the prices charged are of the most reasonable character.
p. 132:JOHN M. WISEMAN, Gilder and Picture Framer, No. 316 Westminster Street. -- This gentleman established business at the above location in 1889, and has been eminently successful. Mr. Wiseman has had twenty years' experience in this line, and is regarded as an artistic manufacturer of all kinds of frames, and also regilds old frames, making them look equal to new. He carries a large and attractive stock of etchings, engravings, crayon pictures, etc., and of goods of his own making, and is ready at the shortest notice to manufacture anything in his line from plans and designs submitted to him. Good work and low prices are the characteristics of this establishment. Mr. Wiseman is a native of Montreal, Canada, but has been a resident of this city since 1879. His trade, which is both wholesale and retail, extends to all parts of the United States.
p. 132:A. H. ALEXANDER & CO., Dealers in Foreign and Domestic Fruits, Nuts and Confectionery, also Fine Cigars and Tobacco, No. 1 Mathewson Street, Branch Stores, No. 347 Westminster Street, Providence, R.I. and No. 45 Broad Street, Pawtucket, R. I. -- This flourishing house was established at this location by the present copartners, Mr. Angelo H. Alexander and Mr. Elbert Simons, four years ago, and by virtue of the fine lines of goods dealt in, the firm's best endeavors at fair, mutual dealing have received a ready response from citizens generally, and in a very short time a heavy volume of business has accrued in the handling, at retail, of foreign and domestic fruits of all kinds, nuts, pure confectionery, fine imported and American cigars and smoking and chewing tobaccos of the standard brands. In November, 1891, a branch was inaugurated at No. 45 Broad Street, Pawtucket, and in February, 1892, one in this city at No. 347 Westminster Street. At both establishments here, the finest grades of pure confectionery are manufactured, and the trade in these choice sweetmeats reaches at wholesale throughout Rhode Island. The Mathewson Street premises consist of a handsomely appointed and well-ordered store, 20 x 80 feet in area, and a shop in the rear, fully equipped for the manufacture of candy, a heavy stock being always carried of foreign and domestic fruits and nuts, in season, confectionery of genuine quality and own make, fine cigars, tobaccos, etc. Special prices are quoted restaurants and boarding-houses and all goods sold are as represented, and are delivered free of charge. Mr. Angelo H. Alexander is a native of this city and a member of the Good Fellow, while Mr. Elbert Simons was born in Vermont, reached Providence five years ago, and is a member of the Sons of Vermont.
p. 132:S. L. CAMPBELL, Photographer, No. 10 Weybosset Street. -- This enterprising lady is a native of this city, and is one of the very few of her sex engaged in this business in this country that is really practical and experienced in all branches. Thoroughly familiar with it and possessing rare artistic ability, she established this concern on her own responsibility, in June, 1891, and from the start has been most successful, and her patronage, which is very large and constantly increasing, includes many of our wealthiest and most refined people. The premises utilized are amply spacious and commodious, easy of access, and comprise an office, handsomely furnished reception-parlor, dressing-rooms, operating, printing, finishing and other rooms. In the operating-rooms will be found in active operation all the very latest improved scientific methods and appliances known to the profession, and employment is given to none but thoroughly skilled assistants. She is prepared to execute photography in all its branches, in the highest style of the art, and the pictures produced are marvelously true and lifelike, in all styles, from life-size to the smallest miniature for the locket. Old pictures are copied, enlarged or reduced, equal in tone and finish to the original, while particular attention is given to groups and children. She makes a specialty of printing and developing for amateurs, bromide enlargements, film developments and blue prints, also the enlargement of negatives for the trade; while her prices are always very reasonable. Miss Campbell is a young lady of rare business ability, industrious, enterprising and prompt and honorable in her business affairs.
p. 132:ETTLINGER, Hatter and Men's Outfitter, No. 105 Weybosset, and No. 321 Westminster Street. -- Among the few better class of houses in Providence engaged in the handling of gentlemen's furnishing goods, that of Ettlinger occupies a prominent place and is well known to the fashionable residents of the city and adjacent districts, not only for handling the finest lines of goods, but for always being well abreast of the times as to style and fashion. In fact, it is proverbial of the house that if you want the 'latest thing' in hats, neckwear, etc., or the correct style in shirts for the existing season of the year, your requirements can be filled at Ettlinger's with complete satisfaction. In addition to a full line of headwear and gentlemen's furnishing goods, a specialty is made of fine custom shirts to exact measure; the prices ranging from six for $7.50 upwards. The business was established thirteen years ago by the present proprietor, Mr. M. Ettlinger, and a branch store was opened at No. 321 Westminster Street, one year ago, for the convenience of customers residing in the south and west districts of the city. The main establishment, 20 x 40 feet in size, is situated in about the busiest part of the city, and with its handsome interior and exterior fittings and appointments and the heavy and carefully selected stock it contains, displayed to the greatest advantage, makes a conspicuous ornament to this section of Providence. Mr. Ettlinger, who is a native of New York, has resided in this city for the past fifteen years, and is a member of the F. and A. M. and the I. O. O. F.
p. 133:DANIEL PLACE, Wholesale Dealer in Fresh and Salt Beef, No. 326 Canal Street. -- Twenty-two years of uninterrupted success and prosperity, sums up in brief the history of this well and favorably-known house, which during this extended period of time has always been under the management and direction of its present efficient proprietor, whose life-long experience of thirty years amply qualifies him to carry on the business under the most favorable auspices. The present desirable premises, recently taken possession of, comprise a large and commodious store, admirably arranged with all the necessary conveniences, including cold-storage and all the like facilities requisite for the handling and preservation of the large stock at all times carried. Mr. Place makes a specialty of the choicest fresh and salted beef, which he receives in large quantities direct from the most reputable sources of supply, and those in search of the primest and best prices are quoted, and a large permanent wholesale and retail trade is catered to. All orders are promptly and reliably filled at short notice. Mr. Place, who is a man of the strictest honor in all his transactions, was born in Connecticut, but for the past quarter of a century has been identified with the interests of this city.
p. 133:JAMES MACKENZIE, Carpenter and Builder, No. 116 Pine Street. -- Although established as recently as the early part of 1891, Mr. James Mackenzie, carpenter and builder, has already succeeded in accruing a heavy volume of trade, reaching throughout Rhode Island. Mr. Mackenzie has an extended and varied practical experience, he having been engaged for twenty-two years as foreman for Messrs. French and Mackenzie of Potter Street. While undertaking the erection of all kinds of buildings, from a church or residence to a plain barn, Mr. Mackenzie makes a specialty of the complete fitting up of offices, stores, manufacturing jewelry shops, saloons and other business premises, in the finest hardwoods and in any style, according to specification or design; and his ability is freely recognized, in the accurate interpretation of architects' plans and drawing. The workshop, 45 x 60 feet in size, is on the third floor at the location named, and is provided with a full equipment of machines, tools and appliances pertaining to the trade, steam-power being the motive force used and eighteen skilled mechanics regularly employed. In addition to the lines already named, general jobbing and repairing of all kinds are equally undertaken and promptly executed. Mr. Mackenzie, who has had thirty-five years' practical experience in the trade, is a native of Nova Scotia and came to this city twenty-six years ago.
p. 133:JAMES M. BAKER, Pattern and Model Maker, No. 116 Pine Street. -- An old-established and reliable wood-pattern and model-maker engaged in this city is Mr. James M. Baker, who controls a large trade reaching throughout the whole of Rhode Island. The business was established in 1864, by the present proprietor, who possesses a practical experience in the trade extending over a period of thirty-two years, and made for all kinds of trade houses, patterns and models of every description; from the largest template to the smallest models of an elaborate and intricate nature; such as those of machines, spare parts or appliances, for patentees and inventors; the whole being executed in various woods, with the most scrupulous care and with a rigid adherence to plan or drawing. The workshop, 30 x 50 feet in size, on the third floor at the address named, is furnished with saws, lathes and a full equipment of machines and appliances for ensuring the most accurate work; steam-power being the motive force used and an adequate staff of skilled assistants regularly employed. Mr. James M. Baker is a native of Ellington, Conn., and came to this city in 1851. Although purely episodical to the ordinary citizen, the extinguishing of fires is with Mr. Baker the hobby of his life, and he has been a member of the Providence Fire Department for the past thirty-nine years. He joined as private in 1854, and in June, 1864, he was made captain of Hook and Ladder No. 3; in that capacity he served for the next nine years and in 1873 was created Third Assistant Engineer, rising, in the course of time, to the first, a position known as 'Called Engineer' with a salary. He has a fire-alarm bell in his shop and another at his private home.
p. 133:GEORGE M. BAKER, Refiner and Smelter, No. 119 Mathewson Street. -- Prominent among the many refiners and smelters in Providence is the responsible house of George M. Baker, which is widely known for executing the best and most accurate work, and for turning out a line of refined gold and silver of strictly the standard of purity. The business was established at the same location by Mr. George M. Baker, six years ago, and it has since steadily and continuously developed in both volume and scope, until it now reaches to all parts of the United States and Canada. The present works are inadequate to the demand, and the house will shortly remove to more commodious quarters, corner Page and Clifford Streets, where there will be every facility for the demands of the increasing trade. A large portion of the operations of the house consists in receiving from jewelry manufacturers and other gold and silver workers, sweepings, filings, polishings, clips, etc., of those metals, which are refined and smelted on the premises and afterwards sold in the pure, standard state; and in this way, a large quantity of gold and silver is always on hand for disposal. The store, office, works, etc. are well lighted and ventilated and conveniently arranged, and seven skilled workmen find regular employment there. The proprietor, Mr. Baker, possesses a practical experience in this line of thirteen years, and personally superintends every detail of the business. He is a native of Rhode Island, still a young man. Mr. Colwell, who has long been with Mr. Baker as traveling agent, is now located in Detroit, Mich., from which point he will look after the Western and Canadian trade. Mr. Wm. W. Knapp, of Attleboro, succeeds Mr. Colwell in the East.
p. 134:C. H. RAWCLIFFE & CO., Manufacturing Jewelers, No. 102 Friendship Street. -- In that branch of the great jewelry industry of Providence assigned to the manufacture of ladies' plated goods, a prominent place is occupied by the responsible firm of C. H. Rawcliffe & Co., whose goods are freely recognized as of standard quality and make, and accordingly find ready sales among jobbers and retail dealers all over the country. A general line of rolled-plate jewelry is manufactured and a specialty is made of ladies' goods, such as hair, neck and dress ornaments, bonnet pins, lockets, brooches, earrings and novelties, in all the latest styles and patterns. In order to maintain their productions at the highest standard of uniform excellence, the firm have adopted all the most approved methods and appliances extant. The enterprise was established in 1888, by the present sole proprietor, Mr. C. H. Rawcliffe, who possesses twenty years' practical experience in jewelry making. The factory, 25 x 40 feet in area, on the second floor, contains and elaborate plant of steam-power machinery, appliances and facilities pertaining to the trade, and six skilled assistants find regular employment. Mr. Rawcliffe is a native of Massachusetts, and has resided in this city for the past eight years.
p. 134:IRA I. ENGLAND, Manufacturer of Calf, Sheep and Lamb Roller Skins, Roller Cloths Harness, Etc., Nos. 25 to 31 Charles Street. -- The factory of Mr. Ira I. England is well known to the manufacturers of cotton and woolen goods all over the country. Mr. England's business is one of those which have contributed largely to the commercial prestige of Providence, because its products, going to all parts of the country, serve as an advertisement of the superior facilities which the city affords for the location of a business which has such an extensive trade. The products of the factory include all kinds of calf, sheep and lamb roller skins, roller cloths harness, pocketbook, lace and picker leather, loom pickers, strappings, and similar goods. Mr. England started in the business twenty-five years ago, in Pawtucket, and after five years there, he removed to Providence, where he has occupied his present location for the last twenty years. An experience of forty years in the line has given Mr. England a thorough knowledge of the trade, and a wide acquaintance among manufacturers all over the United States, who know that the products of his factory are invariably the most reliable. He has agents in all parts of the United States, and has built up his extensive trade by many years of enterprise and reliable dealing. His factory occupies a two-story building, 40 x 100 feet in dimensions, and is equipped with a fine plant of steam-power machinery. The factory handles 100 dozen hides a week. These are all carefully tanned outside, with special preparation for the purpose to which they are to be devoted. At the factory they are carefully split by machinery built for this purpose, and are then manufactured into the various products, by a force of competent workmen. Mr. England is a native of Rhode Island, and is a well-known and esteemed citizen.
p. 134:AMBROSE FLEMING, Machinist, No. 50 Richmond Street. -- There is not one among the machinists of this city who have won a higher reputation for skill and ingenuity than Ambrose Fleming. Mr. Fleming was born in England, and is an expert mechanic, as well as a gentleman of push and energy, and is the inventor, patentee and manufacturer of the Metal Glove Duster, (which soapstones the glove); also of Fleming's Perfection Safety Bracket Lamp, which combines safety, convenience and economy, and which is conceded to be the most ornamental, desirable, and altogether superior article of the kind, ever placed on the market. Both devices mentioned are in extensive use all over the country, and are in growing demand everywhere. Mr. Fleming occupies commodious quarters on Richmond Street, equipped with steam-power, machinery, etc., and employs a number of skilled hands. Small machinery of every description is built to order here, and models are made at short notice, while jobbing generally receives prompt attention. Sewing machine and bicycle repairing is a specialty; lawn mowers are sharpened and repaired, and knives and scissors are sharpened and razors concaved, honed and ground. Locksmithing, key-fitting, saw-filing, bell-hanging, etc., are done likewise with skill and despatch, and steam, water and gas piping are executed in the most expeditious and excellent manner. All orders receive prompt and personal attention, and all work done is warranted to be strictly first-class. This business was established in 1862, by J. Stewart, who was succeeded by A. J. and B. Matteson, who were succeeded by Brown & Fleming, under which firm-name it was conducted up to March last, when Mr. A. Fleming assumed sole control.
p. 134:VERE W. BECK, Contractor and Builder, No. 80 Orange Street. -- One of the best-known and most prominent builders and contractors in Providence is Mr. Vere W. Beck, whose shop is located at No. 80 Orange Street. He has had eighteen years' experience in the business, and established this business in 1886. His comprehensive and far-reaching knowledge of every detail of his profession together with reliable and responsible character of his work, has secured for him a large and influential patronage. There are many splendid specimens of his work scattered through the city. He has recently done some fine work on the South Baptist Church, on Ocean Street, and many other jobs on stores and residences of more or less pretension to ornamentation or beauty. He makes a specialty of contracts for dwellings and guarantees his work. Mr. Beck employs from five to ten skilled workmen, and a point is made of filling all orders promptly and in accordance with the contract. Mr. Beck is a native of Prince Edward's Island, has been ten years in the city, and is highly esteemed by all who have business relations with him. He is a member of the I. O. O. F.
p. 135.H. FULFORD, Diesinker and Toolmaker for Jewelers and Glass-pressers, No. 60 Richmond Street. -- Although established less than twelve months, Mr. H. Fulford, located in this city at No. 60 Richmond Street, has already succeeded in accruing a large trade among regular patrons all over the United States and Canada, as a diesinker and toolmaker for jewelers' and glass-pressers, novelties of all kinds. These gratifying results are in direct response to Mr. Fulford's sustained endeavors to give the greatest measure of satisfaction in all work entrusted to his care, and his varied, practical experience, ranging over a period of fourteen years, enables him, in conjunction with that scrupulous care he is well known to invariably exercise, to sink dies of all kinds to any pattern, with accuracy and promptitude; special drawings being interpreted faithfully and accurately; while all kinds of tools for the jewelry trade, whether those ordinarily in use or others of any particular kind for a uinque purpose, are made from the best materials and warranted to be efficient and durable. The workshop, 10 x 50 feet in area, on the second floor, is furnished with a complete equipment of machines, appliances and facilities for maintaining the production at an uniformly high standard of quality and make, steam-power being the motive force used, and five picked workmen are regularly employed. Mr. H. Fulford is a native of this city, still a young man, and is a member of the I. O. of Red Men.
p. 135.F. H. TOWNSEND, Printer, No. 188 Eddy Street. -- The business of the printer is one of ever-growing importance and is well represented in this city by Mr. F. H. Townsend, who has had fifteen years' practical experience and is still a young man. This business was established twelve years ago by the present proprietor, who has established a reputation that is unsurpassed by any of his contemporaries. He is prepared to print anything, from a card to a newspaper, and enjoys a large and influential patronage in job printing. There is a large, fast cylinder, and three job presses in his printing-shop, which is commodious and otherwise fully equipped with the newest and latest designs in type, of which he has a complete and splendid stock in fonts. Prices are very reasonable with Mr. Townsend, and his work is unexcelled, while his large and influential patronage in the city and vicinity has been acquired by the commendable manner in which he conducts his business. His presses, being steam-power, can turn out work at very short notice, and commercial men find it to their advantage to patronize this flourishing and enterprising house. Mr. Townsend is a native of Providence and a young man who is much admired and respected for his sterling qualities.
p. 135.E. A. RISLEY & CO., Designers, Engravers and Printers, No. 24 Custom House Street. -- Well-known in the city for all kinds of fine printing is the reliable house of E. A. Risley & Co., No. 24 Custom House Street. Although they are not the largest printers in Providence, they have every facility for executing work of the highest order of merit; a fact which their many excellent productions amply attest. Printing of all kinds is undertaken, from a book to a visiting card, including mercatile, trade, society, private and general job printing, in all the latest styles, either in black or richly illuminated; while designs are cheerfully furnished upon application, for every description of commercial work, novelties, etc., executed with rare artistic taste. The business was established at its present location three and a-half years ago by Mr. E. A. Risley, who has had eighteen years' experience in the printers' art and who is a designer of recognized ability. In addition to fine commercial printing, the firm are the publishers of the now well-known illustrated newspaper, the 'Critic', which is about the best all-round weekly in this section of the country. The 'Critic' was started on the 26th of April, 1890, and it now goes to nearly all parts of the United States. It contains news of the fashionable world, society gossip, amusements, etc., wit and humor, crisp, bright and terse. Fifty-five hundred copies weekly is its circulation. The printing-office, on the third floor, is furnished with presses, type and all necessary accessories pertaining to the trade, five skilled assistants being regularly employed, and the business controlled comes from all parts of the New England States. Mr. Risley is a native of Connecticut, now of middle-age, and first reached Providence twenty-one years ago. The 'Critic' has been edited from its start by Mr. George O. Willard, the founder of the 'Pawtucket Times', and who for twenty-five years held the position of managing, city and dramatic editor of the 'Providence Evening Press' and 'Morning Star'. He is also the editor of the 'History of the Providence Stage', from 1762 to 1891.
p. 135.R. L. ALLEN, Manufacturing Optician, No. 8 Hoyle Building. -- A well-known house engaged in the manufacture of telescopes, and a gneral line of opticians' goods to order, is that of R. L. Allen, whose store and shops are situated on the second floor of the Hoyle Building. Mr. Allen is a native of Taunton, Mass., and has had forty years' experience in his profession. He was established in Providence in 1881, and early achieved an enviable reputation for the superior quality of the goods handled and manufactured in his house. When he first started in business, his store was located at the corner of Dorrance and Westminster Streets, but he was burned out there a few years ago, and removed to his present address. He has a very influential patronage all over the United States and Canada for telescopes, eye-glasses, lenses and condensers, all of which are made to order, and never fail to give genuine satisfaction, not only as to their quality, but at prices which will compare very favorably with those of any other house in the trade. Mr. Allen has resided in Providence for fifty-six years, having removed here with his parents when he was two years old.
p. 135.J. TATTERSALL, Boots, Shoes and Rubbers, Corner of Charles and Randall Streets. -- This is the oldest and finest establishment of its kind in this section of the city. The enterprising proprietor was born in England and served an indentured apprenticeship of five years at this trade, learning it thoroughly in all its branches and has had, altogether, a practical experience since 1847. He came to this country and took up his residence in this city in 1852, and, following his trade up to 1864, he inaugurated this enterprise on the opposite side of the street, and at once built up a very large and substantial trade, which grew rapidly to such proportions that three years afterward he was compelled to seek more commodious quarters in order to meet its demands, and moved to his present address in 1867. The premises utilized are very spacious and commodious, embracing one floor, which is admirably arranged and fitted up for business purposes. The store is very handsomely appointed and provided with every convenience for the comfort of patrons and the advantageous display of the large and valuable assortment of goods. The stock carried embraces everything in the line of fine and medium grades of boots, shoes, gaiters and slippers for men, youths and boys, also everything that is new, fashionable and stylish for ladies, misses and children, including the strong walking boot or school shoe and the delicate kid or satin toilet slipper. He also carries a full stock of rubber footwear for all ages, sexes and sizes. These goods are all made of the very finest materials, in the best style of workmanship and the range of sizes is such that a stylish, comfortable and perfect fit is readily obtained, while the prices are the very lowest.
p. 135.RIVERSIDE PHARMACY, Joseph Driver, Proprietor, No. 83 Manton Avenue. -- The proprietor of this popular and efficiently managed pharmacy was born in England, in 1854, and has been a resident of this city since he was eighteen years of age. He inaugurated this enterprise on his own account on the 31st of January, 1891, and at once built up a very large and influential trade, much of which is derived from among our most eminent men in the medical profession. The store is spacious and commodious, very neatly and appropriately fitted up in the latest modern style, having every facility for the transaction of business, including a special department for the prompt and accurate compounding of physicians' prescriptions and family recipes at all hours of the day or night, and in which none but properly qualified assistants are employed. The stock carried embraces a full line of fresh and pure drugs, chemicals, tinctures, extracts and pharmaceutical preparations, many of which are of his own superior preparation, all well-known and reputable proprietary remedies; the latest novelties in druggists' fancy goods, toilet articles, perfumery, etc.; physicians' and surgeons' requisites, foreign and domestic mineral waters, druggists' sundries, and everything, in fact, usually found in a well-regulated pharmacy. Polite assistants serve patrons, and prices are always just and reasonable. Mr. Driver is a courteous gentleman, reliable, exact and honorable in his business.
p. 136:E. I. WALKER & SON, Carriage-painting, No. 75 Clifford Street and No. 199 Washington Street. -- The leading carriage-painters in Providence are Messrs. E. I. Walker & Son. Their business was originally established in 1867 by Mr. E. I. Walker and in 1889 the present firm was organized by the admission of Mr. William D. Walker in partnership. The work done at this establishment comprises the painting of carriages, business wagons, trucks, fire apparatus and railroad cars for the trade throughout Rhode Island. The artistic and reliable manner in which this work is accomplished has brought this firm a very extensive trade, and they number among their customers many of the largest manufacturers, corporations and dealers in Providence, Pawtucket, Woonsocket, Newport, Westerly, Bristol and other towns throughout the State. The firm employ none but the most skillful and proficient workmen, using nothing but the very best materials, and allow no work to leave their establishment that does not come up to the highest standard of excellence. The Messrs. Walker are natives of Rhode Island and are energetic, responsible business men.
p. 136:A. W. McKENZIE, Cutler, Gun and Locksmith, No. 149 Charles Street. -- Thirteen years ago this flourishing business was founded by the present proprietor, and under his experienced and efficient management, has since been conducted with uniform success and prosperity. The premises occupied for the past year comprise a store, 30 x 40 feet in dimensions, which is especially arranged and fitted up with every convenience and facility necessary for the successful prosecution of the business in each department, and a force of skilled assistants is given constant employment. Mr. McKenzie, who brings to bear thirty years of practical experience upon this enterprise, is a thoroughly skilled and expert cutler, gun and locksmith and bell-hanger, and he is prepared to execute all commissions pertaining to those branches of mechanical art in the most prompt, satisfactory and reliable manner. Intricate locks out of order and requiring repairs are overhauled and made good as new, keys for all kinds of locks are fitted and made, wire and electric bells hung properly, saws filed and set, and pen and pocket knives are rebladed with the best cast steel blades. He also does an extensive business in repairing and sharpening scissors of all kinds, lawn-mowers, etc., while razors are ground and honed with care, and in every instance the worksmanship here performed is thorough and perfect, and entire satisfaction is guaranteed the patrons as to the prices charged, especially when due consideration is given to the quality of the work turned out. Mr. McKenzie is the recipent [sic] of a large and substantial patronage, extending throughout this entire city. Born in Scotland, he has resided in this country for the past twenty-eight years, and has since become an active member of several prominent organizations in this community.
p. 137:McWILLIAMS MANUFACTURING COMPANY, Machinists', Jewelers', Tools, Special Machinery, and Watch Case Makers' Machinery, No. 237 Eddy Street. -- The McWilliams Manufacturing Company, carrying on their operations in this city at No. 237 Eddy Street, have long been well and favorably known all over the United States, more particularly in this section of New England, as general machinists and manufacturers; and they are now the center of a national trade of considerable magnitude and importance, making a leading specialty of the furnishing of jewelers' shops out and out, complete with all machines, tools and appliances. In addition to jewelers' tools, and special machinery of any kind, the chief lines of manufacture are watch case makers' machinery, patent presses, cutter holders, patent polishing machines, hardened steel rolls from one to ten inches in diameter, drops, hand and power presses, draw benches, rotary shears, rotary solder cutters, upright drills, sawing and milling rests, bench lathes, and ingot molds. These are, one and all, of the latest improved pattern, and constructed on the best-known principles; and any invention of a valid nature for saving time or labor, or for ensuring better or more uniform results, is adopted in the goods turned out, as soon as it is introduced. The undertaking was founded in 1875, under the same style; and the treasurer, Mr. John McWilliams, possesses a long and varied practical experience in the trade ranging over a period of thirty years. Mr. John McWilliams has been a member of the city government for four years, and has been Collector of the Port for five years. The elaborate plant is contained in the first floor at the location named, 40 x 100 feet in area, and comprises a full and complete equipment of machinery and accessories for maintaining the productions at an uniformly high standard of quality and make; steam-power being the actuating force used, and twenty-five skilled mechanics are regularly employed on the premises. The firm has secured the exclusive agency for the Dodge patent wooden pulley, and are to start a large salesroom where all kinds of machinery will be found.
p. 137:GEORGE F. CHAPMAN & CO., Steam Letter-press Printers, No. 25 Pine Street and No. 60 Weybosset Street. -- For every description of high-grade printing, Messrs. George F. Chapman & Co., carrying on their operations in this city at No. 25 Pine and No. 60 Weybosset Steets, are widely and favorably known in this section of the country, and their business now comprises a heavy and regular volume of orders from the better class of patrons located throughout the New England States. The work undertaken includes fine letter-press printing, plate printing, book, pamphlet, job and mercantile printing in the best style, in types, either plain or of the latest patterns; while particular attention is devoted to society and private work in gold, silver, colors, or richly-illuminated; including ball and concert programmes and tickets, wedding and visiting cards, menus, etc. The enterprise was established at the same location in 1884, by the present proprietor; who, now forty-six years of age, has been engaged in practical printing for the past thirty-four years. Mr. George F. Chapman was the founder of Chapman & Carter in 1871, and of the Rhode Island Printing Company in 1872, both of which he disposed of, and was not actively engaged in business for about three years prior to embarking in the present very successful venture. The printing-office, 50 x 100 feet in measurement, on the third floor at the location noted above, is furnished with innumerable fonts of new type of all the latest styles, one cylinder press, three job presses, and a full equipment of accessories pertaining to the trade; a powerful electric motor being the actuating force used, and a staff of ten skilled printers is busily engaged on the spot. Mr. Chapman was born in Ohio, reached this city thirty years ago, and is a thirty-second degree Mason, as well as a member of the Knights of Pythias and of Buckley Post, No. 21, of the Grand Army of the Republic. He served for one and a half years in the 177th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, mustering out at the close of the war, and was engaged in the battle of Franklin among several other campaigns.
p. 137:JAMES D. STUART, House, Sign and Fresco Painter, No. 8 Chestnut Street. -- Mr. James D. Stuart, located in this city at No. 8 Chestnut Street, occupies a leading position among the better class of house, sign and fresco painters here, and he has been entrusted from time to time with the execution of some very important and significant contracts, among others being the painting and decorative art work in the City Hall, the Cathedral, Hotel Dorrance, churches and schoolhouses all over the city and State. These facts bespeak in unmistakable terms the uniform excellence and thorough reliability of the whole of the work turned out some of the fresco and relief painting undertaken being positive works of art. The business was established in 1877, by the present proprietor, who possesses twenty-five years' practical experience in the trade and takes active part in the prompt and accurate fulfillment of all orders. The chief lines undertaken are: all branches of plain painting, the kalsomining of ceilings and walls, white or tinted; gilding, graining, paperhanging, all kinds of hardwood filling and polishing, interior decorative painting in all styles and to any design, fine sign writing and lettering. The trade controlled reaches throughout this section of the country and its volume necessitates the employment of from twenty-five to fifty skilled workmen, according to the season of the year. The store, shop, etc., 20 x 60 feet in size, which have been occupied for the past nine years, are well fitted and fully equipped with tools and accessories pertaining to the trade; and contain, also, a heavy stock of wall papers, paints, decorations, brushes and a general line of painters' supplies. Mr. James D. Stuart is a native of London, England, now of middle-age, and is a member of the Mechanics' Exchange and the Builders' Exchange, as well as of the Catholic Knights of America, the Bronson Lyceum, Providence Democracy, and a director in the Providence Baseball Association.
Continued
Transcribed 2000 by Beth Hurd
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