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. 151:FRANK MEEHAN, Practical Furniture Polisher, No. 390 High Street. -- A leading exponent in this business is Frank Meehan, a gentleman who hails from Ireland and who has had thirty-five years' experience as a practical man. He has been engaged at the trade all his lifetime, and has resided in the United States for forty-three years. He has a very commodious and well-fitted shop on the second-floor of the building at No. 390 High Street, and employs a staff of competent assistants. Mr. Meehan enjoys a most influential trade all over Rhode Island, among the furniture and piano men as well as having a large family custom. He does all kinds of refinishing in varnish and shellac, and is prepared to call at any address and give estimates for refinishing and repairing. Mr. Meehan is a member of the G. A. R. Post Slocum, having served in the 3rd Rhode Island H. A. regiment as a private, from 1862 to 1865.
p. 151:L. A. BASINET, Book and Job Printer, Hoyle Building, Room No. 29, Nos. 366-276 High Street and No. 19 Cranston Street. -- This gentleman is a native of Canada, where he received a first-class training in the printing and publishing business. He has been in Providence for ten years, and, during that time, has established a very influential connection. He was established in business on his own responsibility in 1889, on High Street, and met with flattering success, the business expanding at such a rapid ratio that it was found necessary to remove to more commodious quarters in 1891. The premises occupied are embraced in the second-floor of the Hoyle Building, located at the junction of High and Cranston Streets, sufficiently large to meet the requirements of the business, and fully equipped with power job presses, a new and complete stock of type in all the latest designs, and, in fact, every desirable appliance for all kinds of printing except cylinder work, with is given out. A competent staff of compositors add to the satisfactory operations of the establishment. Mr. Basinet also publishes the pamphlet entitled the 'American Odd Fellow', and has a large general trade all over Rhode Island for job printing. He is a prominent member of the I. O. O. F., and also of the Good Templars. He also makes a specialty of French work, doing the translation and all without any extra cost to those getting work done, and contemplates the establishment of a French humorous paper during 1892, which will be the only one of the kind in New England.
p. 151:WM. W. HANDY, Botanic Druggist, Wholesale and Retail, No. 161 Broad Street. -- This thriving business dates its foundation way back to 1841, at which time it was originally established by Mr. Westcott Handy, who conducted it up to 1867, when he was succeeded by his son, the present proprietor. The premises occupied for the past decade comprise a large and commodious store, 25 x 100 feet in dimensions, which is neatly and handsomely appointed throughout with special reference to the business, and with its well-displayed stock forms one of the most attractive features of this street. A large and general assortment of pure drugs and chemicals, proprietary medicines of acknowledged merit, toilet articles, soaps, sponges, perfumery, tinctures, fluids, extracts, etc., is at all times handled, together with a large and freshly gathered stock of roots, herbs and barks of all kinds, of which this house makes a specialty. Particular attention is given to the compounding of physicians' prescriptions and family recipes from the purest and most reliable ingredients obtainable, and every care is taken to insure accuracy and precision in their preparation. A large, influential and permanent wholesale and retail trade is enjoyed. Mr. Handy is a native of this State, and is thoroughly conversant with the drug business, with which he has been identified all his life. He is a popular member of the Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Association.
p. 151:CHAS. L. POTTER, Plumber, Etc., No. 69 South Main Street. -- A prosperous, thoroughly reliable and prominent house engaged in sanitary plumbing in Providence, is that of Mr. Chas. L. Potter. This enterprising gentleman was born in the West Indies, was educated in Boston, where he learned at an early age the plumbing and coppersmithing trades. At the outbreak of the late Civil War he enlisted and served for three years in the 3d Regiment Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, and at the close of the war came to this city and devoted his attention to this business, and after many years of practical experience he established this concern in 1866, which he has since conducted with great vigor and success, his patronage extending throughout the State and including many of our leading architects, building contractors and property owners. His headquarters are commodious and amply spacious, admirably fitted up and arranged for business and shop purposes. In the store will be found a full and complete assortment of the very latest designs and improved sanitary water-closets, urinals, bath tubs, washstands, traps, sinks and other plumbers' supplies, such as wrought and cast iron, lead and earthen pipe, faucets, force and lift pumps, etc., which are furnished at manufacturers' prices. The workshop is fully equipped with the latest improved tools and appliances and a full force of skilled and experienced workmen are given constant employment. He is prepared to execute at the shortest notice and in the best style of workmanship all orders for plumbing and ventilating buildings of any description, while a specialty is made of sewer connections, drainage and sanitary engineering. All work is done satisfactorily at lowest prices, while special attention is given to repairing. Some of the work done by him in this city is that at the Rhode Island Hospital and St. Mary's Orphan Asylum; residences of Hon. Zackenat Allen, Providence; Hon. B. F. Thurston, Providence; Judge E. R. Potter, Kingston, R.I.; Colonel Charles W. Larned, West Point, N. Y.; George W. Gould, Esq., Allendale, R.I.; Charles T. Dorrence, Warwick, R. I.; also Warwick Hotel, Warwick, R.I. Mr. Potter is an active comrade in Slocum Post, G. A. R., Department of Rhode Island.
p. 152:THOS. McMURROUGH, Undertaker, Fenner and Pond Streets. -- One of the first undertakers to introduce the art of embalming here was Thos. McMurrough, who has had twenty years' experience is the business. He is a native of Ireland, has resided in Providence for thirty-five years, and was established as an undertaker, on his own responsibility, in 1870. He moved to the commodious quarters now occupied by him at Fenner and Pond Streets, in 1880, owing to the large increase in the patronage accorded him. The premises now occupied comprise a show-room, 35 x 50 feet in dimensions, elegantly appointed, and stocked with a complete line of coffins and caskets, the stock of which is one of the largest in the city. The patronage extended to Mr. McMurrough is of a most influential character, requiring the employment of five assistants, and the requisition of three hearses, and extends all over Rhode Island.
p. 152:JOHN H. BAMPTON, Designer and Die-cutter, and Manufacturer of Metal Ornaments, No. 67 Friendship Street. -- A well-known and extensively patronized house engaged in this special line is that of Mr. John H. Bampton. Mr. Bampton is an Englishman by birth and has been a highly respected resident of this city since 1867, and having had a continuous practical experience at this trade since 1872; he established this enterprise on his own account at this address in 1882, and at once developed a very large and substantial trade that now extends to all portions of the United States. The premises occupied are spacious and commodious, comprising an entire floor, 25 x 80 feet in dimensions, and admirably fitted up for business and manufacturing purposes. The workshop is thoroughly equipped with all the latest improved modern machinery, tools and appliances, with ample steam-power, and employment is given to a sufficient force of skilled workmen to meet all the requirements of the trade. He is prepared to execute all orders for designing and die-cutting at the shortest notice and in the most satisfactory manner. He also prepares new and original designs and dies to order for the trade. A specialty is made of manufacturing metal ornaments of every description.
p. 152:C. S. HORTON, Importer and Jobber of Millinery Goods., No. 129 Westminster Street, Room 6. -- The well-known establishment of Mr. C. S. Horton, importer and jobber of millinery goods, was opened for business in 1885, and has occupied the present location, No. 129 Westminster Street and No. 48 Exchange Place, for the past two years only. A spacious salesroom is occupied, which is elegantly fitted up and contains a full and complete line of imported and domestic millinery goods in all its branches. The trade of the house is with retail dealers of Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. These goods are the productions of the finest Parisian modistes and American manufacturers, and are in great demand by the trade. The reputation of the house is of the highest for superior goods. A corps of experienced commercial travelers is employed and the trade is constantly increasing. Mr. Horton is a native of New Hampshire, but has been a resident of this city for twenty-two years, and is a gentleman of strict integrity and high standing in commercial circles.
p. 152:GEORGE W. WILDES & CO., Hat and Bonnet Bleachers, No. 202 Westminster Street. -- The old-established and thoroughly reliable house of George W. Wildes & Co. dates its foundation back a quarter of a century, and has always been controlled by the present firm, with uniform success and prosperity. These premises have been occupied for the past four years, and comprise four rooms on the third-floor of a large and commodious building, which are well equipped throughout with all the latest improved facilities and appliances, and twenty expert hands are required in constant employment. Ladies' straw chip, Leghorn, Neapolitan and felt hats are here cleansed, colored, and made into the latest styles, while gentlemen's straw and manilla hats are bleached and trimmed and made to look like new. Prices are invariably placed at the lowest point of moderation, and special attention is given to work for the trade, the patronage of the house extending not only throughout this city and State, but Connecticut and Massachusetts as well. Mr. Wildes, the active proprietor of this firm, is thoroughly conversant with every branch of this business, with which he has some thirty-six years' of practical experience. He is a native of the State of Maine, but for the past quarter of a century has resided in Providence.
p. 152:NEWBURY & BRAINARD, Opticians, No. 345 Westminster Street. -- This store is one of the attractions of this busy thoroughfare, and is commodious in size, covering an area of 20 x 40 feet, while it is handsome in all its appointments and perfect in convenience of arrangement for the display, inspection and sale of the stock. A very large assortment is carried in every line, and through the connections of this house with manufacturers of the highest repute, every effort is made to preserve uniform excellence in both the quality and make of the goods is accomplished. In optical goods, etc., the stock surpasses any like display in the city, and the proprietors, who are recognized as experts in their line, are constantly laying before the public articles of novelty, beauty and merit, difficult to be obtained elsewhere. They are especially prominent as opticians, and make a specialty of filling occulists' prescriptions of all kinds with accuracy and dispatch, while they also carry a complete line of optical instruments, spectacles, opera-glasses, eyeglasses, etc.; and the house is also prepared to execute repairing in the finest style of the art. These gentlemen, who are both natives of Connecticut, previous to locating in this city were engaged in this business at Southbridge, Mass. Their trade extends throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. Mr. Brainard is a member of the I. O. O. F. and Mr. Newbury is a popular member of the R. A.
p. 153:SCHOLFIELD'S COMMERCIAL COLLEGE, No. 174 Westminster Street. -- It is absolutely imperative that the young, who intend to embark on a mercantile career, should, beforehand, thoroughly prepare themselves for the struggle by a course of education especially directed to the needs and requirements of those entering commercial life. There are numerous institutions in the United States specially devoted to imparting a business education. Prominent among these is Scholfield's Commercial College, of this city, now in the forty-sixth year of an honored and useful existence. This institution occupies spacious and desirable quarters at No. 174 Westminster Street, and has long enjoyed a reputation and patronage thoroughly national in extent and eminently creditable in character. Its foundation was laid in 1846, by Mr. A. G. Scholfield, who is the oldest principal in active business in the United States, and has continued to preside over its affairs throughout all these years. It required immense energy and indomitable perseverance to found such an enterprise in those days, but Mr. Scholfield faced every obstacle bravely, and soon succeeded in planting a notable college of learning upon a broad, sound and permanent basis. The atmosphere shed by Scholfield's Commerial College has ever been an atmosphere of energy and purpose. It is devoted to fitting young men and women for actual business of all kinds and descriptions. It is itself, in fact, an epitome of all the typical varieties of business done in the world. The business of the merchant, the manufacturer, the banker, the importer and jobber, the express agent and insurance company, the real estate agent and the broker, in short, more kinds of business than we can name, including typewriting and shorthand, oil and water-color painting and mechanical drawing, are here taught by a carefully devised system of object lessons devoted to each. The actual business itself, in most cases, is directly entered upon. We can hardly conceive of any work which a young man or woman may be called upon to do in the world, aside from the professions of law, theology and medicine, - any one of which would be well supplemented by a course here - that is not absolutely provided for by this institution. The best witnesses are its thousands of successful graduates, scattered all over the United States, engaged in responsible and profitable avocations. Their prosperity attests, as no other testimonials can, the merits of Mr. Scholfield's methods. His college catalogue will repay perusal by young or old, and can be obtained on application. Mr. Scholfield is a native of Jewett City, Conn., and was sixteen years engaged in mercantile and manufacturing business previous to settling here. He has ever given a hearty support to all measures best calculated to advance and perfect the facilities afforded to the young men and women of America to secure a thorough business education, and is the pioneer educator in his special field of learning. Among the graduates of this college can be found ex-governors, ex-mayors, and men in all responsible positions in life.
also on page 153: Portrait of A. G. Scholfield
p. 154:C. T. BAXTER, Optician and Jeweler, No. 38 North Main Street. -- One of the largest jewelry establishments in this section of the city is that of Mr. C. T. Baxter. The business was established in July, 1891, and a large and influential patronage has since been enjoyed. A store 20 x 60 feet in dimensions is occupied, which is well stocked with a large assortment of valuable jewelry, including the best American and foreign watches, chains, charms, fancy clocks, and a fine display of diamonds and other precious stones. The specialty of the house is the filling of oculists' prescriptions, and in this department Mr. Baxter is skilled, having a thorough knowledge of the science of optics and of the general requirements of the business. He is prepared to scientifically adjust eyeglasses to the needs of every customer, and will warrant satisfaction in all cases. He carries an extensive stock of the finest pebbles, periscopic and French periscopic lenses, and every description of fine optical goods that may be guaranteed to suit all classes and conditions of eyes. Errors of refraction are accurately determined by ophthalmic instruments, and in every case where satisfaction is not given the money is cheerfully refunded. Mr. Baxter is a native of Cape Cod, but has been a resident of this city for fifteen years. He is a K. T. of the F. and A. M., and member of the Good Fellows and the American Mechanics.
p. 154:NARRAGANSETT LAUNDRY AND DYEHOUSE, William Critchley, Proprietor, No. 304 Broadway. -- Mr. Critchley is a native of Ireland and has been a resident of this city at various times since 1856. At the outbreak of the late Civil War he enlisted as a private in the Second Regiment of New York Artillery and served for three years, having been promoted to the position of orderly sergeant. Having returned from the war at its close he applied himself to acquiring a thorough knowledge of this trade, and has been engaged in it continuously ever since; and in June, 1891, he established this enterprise on his own account, and from the start it has been the center of a very liberal and substantial patronage. The premises utilized embrace an entire building, 25 x 100 feet in dimensions, appropriately and admirably fitted up for business and working purposes. The dye and laundry departments are fully equipped with the latest improved machinery, tools and appliances, including steam boiler for supplying hot water, drying drum, etc., and steady employment is given a full force of skilled and experienced hands. Using none but the purest and most lasting dyes, and giving his entire attention to all the details of the business, he succeeds in turning out goods that none but the most experienced can tell from those that are dyed in the raw material, and the best feature is that they will not crock, and will look fresh until worn out. He is prepared to execute all orders for dyeing, cleansing and finishing garments without taking them to pieces. Feathers are dyed and curled, blankets scoured, and all kinds of laundry work is performed. Mr. Critchley is a comrade of Sedgwick Post of Norwich, Grand Army of the Republic, Dept. of Connecticut, and takes great interest in promoting its principles of F. C. and L.
p. 154:WILLIAM H. PERRY & CO., Dealers in Scrap Iron and Old Metals, No. 288 Dyer Street, Branch Yard, No. 51 Weeden Street, Pawtucket, R.I. -- This comprehensive review of the representative merchants, manufacturers and business men of Providence, would hardly be complete without more than passing mention of W. H. Perry & Co., dealers in scrap iron and old metals, No. 288 Dyer Street. They are one of the largest and most widely-known firms in the line indicated in New England, and have a branch yard at No. 51 Weeden Street, Pawtucket, R.I. Their trade extends all over the Middle and Eastern States, and is of a most substantial character handling a great many tons a year. The firm receive by rail and water from all sections of the country and can fill the largest orders, at short notice. Their premises on Dyer Street cover half an acre of ground, and there are ample wharf facilities in connection therewith. An immense stock is constantly kept on hand here. All orders for anything in scrap iron or old metals are attended to in the most prompt and trustworthy manner. This flourishing business was established in 1867, by William H. Perry, who conducted the same alone up to about four years ago, when he associated with him in partnership Alfred Perry, who is a relative of the senior member of the firm. Mr. William H. Perry is a gentleman in the meridian of life, active and energetic, but has been a respected resident of Providence for twenty-five years. He is one of our solid citizens and prominent merchants, and is a director of the Third National Bank.
p. 154:CITY HOTEL, J. E. Woodward, Proprietor. -- This house has been open to travelers for the past two-thirds of a century, having been established in 1827. Mr. Woodward, the present owner, succeeded to the control in September, 1891. He is a resident of Boston, where for twenty years he held the responsible position of steward to the Suffolk Club, discharging his duties in the most efficient and satisfactory manner. He is a native of Taunton, Mass., and has hosts of friends in all the walks of life. The City Hotel is a well-built structure, most desirably located, and is fitted throughout with all modern improvements and comforts, being heated by hot water, having call bells, baths, barber-shop, reading-rooms, parlors, and a fine bar, stocked with the choicest wines and liquors. The spacious dining-room has seating capacity for two hundred persons. The tables are supplied with the best edibles the market affords, while the dishes are cooked under the immediate supervision of an experienced and thoroughly skilled chef. The hotel is conducted on the American plan, the rates being $2.00 and $2.50 a day, and strictly first-class accommodations are offered, the hotel being the finest in the city at those prices. Employment is found for fifty assistants in the various departments, and the service is perfect in every respect.
p. 155:N. C. ARNOLD, Registered Pharmacist, Corner Chestnut and Pine Streets. -- A leading, responsible and well-patronized pharmacy of Providence, is that which has been under the efficient management and direction of Mr. N. C. Arnold for the past twelve years, who is a thoroughly experienced and legally registered pharmacist of the highest standing in the profession. The store, 20 x 40 feet in measurement, is handsomely fitted up with every convenience and facility necessary for the handling and display of the stock, and an elegant soda fountain imparts to the place a most attractive and inviting appearance. The large and complete stock carried embraces a first-class assortment of the purest and freshest drugs and chemicals, patent and proprietary medicines, druggists' sundries of every description, toilet and fancy articles, soaps, perfumery, etc. The proprietor takes the greatest care in compounding physicians' prescriptions and family recipes in the most accurate and prompt manner, and also makes a specialty of putting up a general line of pharmaceutical compounds, and the celebrated Arnold's Tolu, Tar and Wild Cherry, for coughs and colds, in great popular demand. Mr. Arnold is a native of this city, and a member of high standing of the
Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Association.
p. 155:JENKINS JONES, Pattern-maker, No. 40 Porter Street. -- One of the oldest manufacturers in this city engaged in the wood-pattern and model-making industry is Mr. Jenkins Jones, who has had forty years' practical experience in the line. He was established on Orange Street in 1867, and remained there for ten years, when he was compelled to remove to his present more commodious quarters, owing to the constant growth of the business. Mr. Jones has been in this line of manufacture for nearly half a century, and to-day he occupies a leading position as an expert authority to the trade. His present premises comprise a shop on the second floor, 25 x 50 feet in area, fitted with steam-power machinery, lathes, saws, etc., of the most improved types. He employs a competent force of skilled hands, who are prepared to make anything in the line of wooden pattern and models, from a pinion to a girder. Mr. Jones was born in Corland County, N. Y., lived through his boyhood in East Greenwich, R.I., and came to Providence in 1843.
p. 155:GEORGE L. OLNEY, Proprietor New York Birdstore, No. 30 North Main Street. -- This house conducts a wholesale and retail trade of large proportions, extending throughout the whole United States, and, in addition, is a direct importer of many of the rare foreign animals dealt in, drawing its supply from all parts of the world, being the sole importer of the celebrated Campanini canaries. It would be impossible, here, to enumerate the many kinds of pet animals handled, which comprise every description of foreign and domestic pets; suffice it to say that birds such as canaries, parrots, mocking birds, goldfinches, linnets, nightingales, tiny finches, gorgeous macaws, cockatoos, etc. constitute the leading line, while fine-bred lap, watch and field dogs, pigeons, rabbits, ferrets, fowls, guinea-pigs and small pets are also salient features of the large stock carried. From the operations of the house even monkeys and cats are not excluded, and of these latter one hundred have been sold recently. In addition to the foregoing, best quality brass, Japanned and wooden frame cages for all purposes, bird seeds, a full line of dog medicine, own make mange cure and flea soap, Olney's celebrated song restorer, etc., are largely handled and stocked. The specialty of the business consists of carrier pigeons at twenty-five and fifty dollars, and of these an assortment is on hand that has rarely been equaled. The enterprise was established in 1875 by Mr. George H. Holden, who, in 1890, was succeeded by Messrs. Hazard and Olney, and since March 17, 1891, the latter has had sole control of affairs. Mr. George L. Olney is a native of this city, now twenty-seven years of age, and is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the I. O. O. F.
p. 155:CHARLES A. BROWN & SON, House and Sign Painting, Etc., No. 22 Chalkstone Avenue. -- This representative house was established in 1857, by Mr. Charles A. Brown, and on the first of January, 1892, he admitted his son to partnership. The firm bring to bear vast practical experience and a thorough knowledge of modern requirements, and are prepared to give prompt attention to house and sign painting in all its branches; and they not only execute all classes of decorative work in wall papers, paper-hanging, graining and kalsomining, but also give particular attention to the complete furnishing of interiors, thus securing the most harmonious combinations and beautiful effects. Many of the churches in this city and throughout the State are a public exhibit of their skill and demonstrate their representative standing in this branch of artistic industry. Their services are in constant and important requisition throughout Rhode Island, Southern Massachusetts and Eastern Connecticut; and those contemplating anything in the line of decorating and painting whether they are house owners or church committees, should secure estimates from this reliable firm. Mr. Charles A. Brown was born in Ironstone, Mass., in 1837, and came to this city in 1855. He enlisted at the opening of the War as a private in the First Rhode Island Light Artillery; was captured and served nine months in the prison pens of Richmond, Danville, Macon, Charleston and Columbia, S. C., finally making his escape, and after untold sufferings, with nothing to eat for 104 hours at a time, walking barefooted through the snow on Lookout Mountain, he was retaken. Again he escaped, and made his way to Knoxville, Tenn., a distance of 500 miles; being one of four out of twenty-one, who escaped with him, who arrived within the Union lines, the others being recaptured or dying on the way. He became first-lieutenant by successive promotions, and is an honored member of Prescott Post, G. A. R.; also of the I. O. O. F., K. of P., Iron Hall, Fraternal Circle, Protective League and N. E. Order of Protection. His son was born in this city, trained in this business from his youth, and combines his energy and vigor with the ripe experience of his father to form a firm of commanding ability, wide popularity and solid worth.
p. 156:MR. CAPRON, Dealer in Ranges, Stoves, Furnaces and Kitchen Hardware, No. 10 Chalkstone Avenue. -- Thirty years of uninterrupted success and prosperity sums up in brief the history of this well and favorably known house, which has always been under the control of its present efficient proprietor, and for the past twenty years has been located at its present desirable quarters. These premises comprise a two-story building, 25 x 100 feet in dimensions, which is equipped throughout in the most complete manner, and perfect in convenience of arrangement in each department for the advantageous prosecution of the business, while employment is furnished to from six to eight skilled workmen. In the salesroom a heavy and comprehensive stock is carried, embracing everything in the line of stoves, ranges, furnaces and kitchen hardware of every description. This house makes a leading specialty of plumbing, gas-piping, hot-air heating for residences, roofing and general jobbing of all kinds in this line of work, all of which are promptly and reliably executed. Particular attention is also paid to factory work, and the range of manufacture includes furnaces, milk, cylinder and factory cans, and copper, tin and sheet-iron ware of every description. In every branch of this business the proprietor's aim has ever been to please all who favor him with their patronage. Mr. Capron is a native of Providence and is a man of prominence in many social orders.
p. 156:H. O. COTTON, Contractor, Carpenter and Builder, No. 342 Eddy Street. -- This business was established eight years ago by Mr. Cotton, who, early last year, added contracting to his operations, and he now undertakes all kinds of heavy and light construction, from the erection of a warehouse, factory, church, etc., to a residence or plain barn, as well as the complete fitting up of banks, offices, stores, saloons and business premises, in all fancy hardwoods, in the latest styles, from the simplest to the most elaborate, fine work being a specialty; while shingling, repairing and jobbing of every description incidental to the trade are promptly and accurately executed. In addition, Mr. Cotton undertakes a general line of architect work, preparing plans and designs, getting out quantities, drawing up specifications, etc. The operations of the house extend throughout the State, and their volume furnishes regular employment for twenty skilled mechanics. Mr. Cotton possesses a wide and varied practical experience, ranging over a period of twenty-four years. Born in Maine, Mr. Cotton has resided in this city for the past ten years, and is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Independent Order of Red Men.
p. 156:A. D. WILSON, Watchmaker, Dealer in Watches, Clocks, Jewelry, Spectacles, Etc., Etc., No. 235 North Main Street. -- For some few years past Mr. A. D. Wilson, located in this city at No. 235 North Main Street, has been widely and favorably known as a dealer in watches, clocks, jewelry, spectacles and optical goods, handling the most reliable and satisfactory grades in each line at relatively low prices. He is, however, still better known as a manufacturer of special clock machinery to order to any pattern, as also of clock movements, wheels, pinions, etc., for repairs and experimental work, while he also devotes particular attention to the repair of musical boxes, replacing worn out parts, and cleaning, adjustment, etc., of complicated timepieces of all kinds. In these several matters, Mr. Wilson, who served his time at the trade of clockmaking, brings to bear a practical experience of fifteen years, which, added to that scrupulous care he invariably observes, ensures the most satisfactory and accurate results in all work undertaken. The business was established by Mr. Wilson nine years ago, and it now reaches throughout Rhode Island and the adjacent districts, among the better class of regular patrons. At the well-appointed store is always to be seen a large and carefully chosen stock of gold and silver watches, clocks of various kinds, a full line of fine jewelry and spectacles and optical goods in rich assortment. Mr. Wilson, who is of New York birth and still a young man, came to Providence in 1872, and is a member of the F. and A. M. and the I. O. O. F. Previous to January, 1883, Mr. Wilson was for three years foreman of George H. Taylor & Co.'s factory, located at No. 136 Westminster Street, which manufactured what was known as the old Simon Willard timepiece.
p. 156:J. M. SULLIVAN, Florist, No. 177 Carpenter Street. -- A reference to the florists of this State at once suggests the name of J. M. Sullivan, who enjoys an enviable reputation as a leader in his line throughout this section. Born in Ireland, Mr. Sullivan has resided in this city for the past twenty years, and in 1880 embarked for himself in this business at No. 177 Carpenter Street, where he has four greenhouses located. The demands of his trade becoming of such proportions, he also opened a store for the convenience of patrons at No. 608 High Street, at the beginning of the current year, and here will be found at all times a large and comprehensive stock of beautiful fresh cut flowers, rare exotics, palms, ferns and growing plants and bulbs of all kinds, seeds, etc., presenting many fine specimens of great variety, that are fashionable and desirable, difficult to be obtained elsewhere. He furnishes bouquets and designs for the table and parlor, and also funeral emblems, wreaths, crosses, etc.; while he gives particular attention to arranging flowers and plants for weddings, receptions and entertainments, and to decorations of this character generally for houses, churches and halls. A specialty is likewise made of garden and lawn work, and from five to ten expert assistants are required in constant employment, while all the work for the Round Top church of this city is done by this house. Mr. Sullivan, who is a great lover of flowers and an expert floriculturist, has a large and permanent trade extending throughout this entire State.
p. 157:A. L. CROOKER & CO., Wood Mantels, Tiles, Grates, Etc., Salesroom, No. 662 Broad Street, Whitfield Block, Factory, No. 28 Mill Street. -- A house that has made itself very popular, since its establishment three years ago, in Providence, is that of Messrs. A. L. Crooker & Co., No. 662 Broad Street. Having had a wide range of experience in this line, covering a period of thirty years, Mr. Crooker's enterprise secured a strong hold on popular favor, which has resulted in a large and influential trade in Rhode Island and adjacent territory. At its inception the business was carried on at No. 34 Mill Street, the present location of the splendid factory conducted by the firm, but owing to the increasing and constantly developing state of the business, it was found necessary, in 1890, to secure additional quarters, hence the location of the warerooms and offices at Broad Street, in the Whitfield Building. The factory and shop comprise a second-story floor at No. 28, 30 x 130, one 25 x 15, and a second-story floor at No. 34, 30 x 70 feet in dimensions, fitted with steampower machinery and the most modern improved type of plant for this particular line of manufacture. A staff of from ten to fifteen skilled workmen are constantly employed working and manufacturing to order and for stock. Included in the line of goods manufactured by this house are general interior woodworking to order, mantels for the trade only, bank and office fittings, and fine upholstering to order, in the richest and most unique styles. He carries an excellent line of sofas, conversation chairs, lounges, buffets, and general fine furniture. Mr. Crooker was born in Maine, educated in Boston, and has resided in Providence for five years, and was formerly superintendent for the well-known firm of F. M. Holmes & Co., of Boston.
p. 157:MARION PRINTING COMPANY, Noah D. Payne, Manager, General Printers and Publishers, Phenix Building, No. 129 Westminster Street. -- The Marion Printing Company, of which Mr. Noah D. Payne is the manager, which is located centrally in the Phenix building, No. 129 Westminster Street, was founded originally in 1880 as the Yankee Notion Printing Company, with Mr. Payne as its manager, and was continued under that title until 1888, when the present corporate name was assumed. Mr. Payne was born on Broadway, this city, and is a thoroughly practical man in all branches of the typographic art, his experience dating back as far as 1868. The premises utilized are of ample dimensions, located on the third-floor, easy of access and admirably adapted to office and printing purposes. A full stock of book, news and flat papers, also card boards and other printers' materials is kept constantly on hand and furnished at manufacturers' prices. The mechanical department is thoroughly equipped, including one cylinder and five job presses, paper-cutter, etc., operated by an electric motor, while the supply of type is fully adequate to all the demands of the trade, and embraces a large number of fonts of the very latest ornate styles, while employment is given to a force of ten thoroughly skilled and experienced pressmen and compositors. The range of work includes all kinds of printing, newspapers, books, pamphlets, plain and illustrated catalogues, legal blanks, labels, hotel, restaurant and commercial work of every description, church, society, ball and festival printing, placards, posters, programmes, etc. Estimates are furnished and contracts of any size are executed promptly and satisfactorily.
p. 157:WHAT CHEER STABLES, Geo. H. Johnson, Prop., Hack, Boarding and Livery, No. 224 Benefit Street. -- Among the oldest established and most liberally patronized, hack, boarding and livery stables of this city may be mentioned the What Cheer Stables, Mr. Geo. H. Johnson, proprietor. This establishment comprises two floors, 50 x 100 feet in dimensions, having accommodations for seventy-five horses. The stable is supplied with every modern convenience and appliance, is well ventilated and lighted and a splendid stock of horses is kept for hire, while a full line of carriages, hacks, laudaus and other vehicles also kept constantly on hand. The house is liberally patronized by the best class of customers and some fine animals owned by gentlemen in the city are boarded here. Mr. Johnson, the popular proprietor, is a native of Rhode Island.
p. 157:O. SUMNER & SON, Registered Pharmacists, Corner of Broad and Chestnut Streets. -- The oldest established house, in this section, engaged in this important branch of professional industry, is that of the firm of O. Sumner & Son, registered pharmacists, which has always been distinguished for the excellence of its goods and high order of management. Its foundation dates back to 1844, at which time the business was originally established by Mr. O. Sumner, who carried it on alone for thirty-two years with eminent success and then admitted his son into the partnership under the above style. The present desirable store at the corner of Broad and Chestnut Streets has been occupied during this extended period of time with the exception of the first four years, and this is large and commodious, being 20 x 60 feet in dimensions, and handsomely and appropriately arranged for the purposes of the business. The stock handled is large and complete, embracing only pure and fresh drugs, chemicals and pharmaceutical preparations, all proprietary medicines of well-known merit, toilet and fancy articles, perfumery, druggists' sundries, etc., and an attractive soda-fountain forms one of its most inviting features. Special attention is here given to the compounding of physicians' prescriptions and family recipes. This firm also puts up a fine line of compounds and makes their own tinctures, extracts, etc.; and to the superior quality of their goods, as well as by the general satisfaction rendered in compounding and dispensing medicines, they have always enjoyed a large and first-class patronage. Mr. O. Sumner is a native of Connecticut, and was graduated from the Jefferson Medical College of Pennsylvania as a physician, while for the past fifty-two years he has resided in this city. His son, Mr. Geo. C. Sumner, was born in Pomfret, Conn.
p. 157:J. N. SCHOTT, Packer and Wholesale Provision Dealer, Manufacturer of Fine Bolognas and Sausages, Corner Randall and Little Streets. -- The wholesale provision trade has a leading representative in the person of Mr. J. N. Schott. Mr. Schott, who is one of the prominent merchants of the city, is a native of Germany and has been a resident of Providence for the last twenty-eight years. He is a member of the Butchers' and Marketmen's Association, and is in fact one of the best-known in the business. He established himself in business three years ago on Smithfield Avenue, and he soon built up such a big trade that he was obliged to remove to larger quarters, and one year ago he occupied his present commodious and convenient premises. These comprise a building with two floors, each 40 x 100 feet, which are furnished with every appliance for handling the large and growing trade. The plant has a capacity for cutting, dressing and packing from seventy-five to one hundred hogs a day, besides handling large quantities of beef. A special feature of the business is the curing of hams, the manufacture of lard, and the packing of a general line of provisions. There are also facilities for the manufacture of fine bolognas and common sausage. All the work of cutting and manufacturing is done by special machinery, and a noticeable feature of the factory is the scrupulous neatness that everywhere prevails. The products of the factory have a well-established sale in Rhode Island, Eastern Massachusetts and Eastern Connecticut.
p. 158:G. B. DARLING, Lapidary, No. 109 Friendship Street. -- Mr. Darling is a native of this State and has had a continuous practical experience as a lapidary since 1852. In 1860 he and a Mr. Atkinson established this industry on this street under the firm-title of Messrs. Atkinson & Co., which they carried on until 1864, when upon the retirement of Mr. Atkinson from the firm, the business passed into the hands of the present proprietor, who has since carried it on with great vigor and success. He remained at the old quarters until 1874, when he removed to his present address, in order to enjoy better facilities to meet the demands of his constantly increasing patronage which extends throughout the State and vicinity. The premises are appropriately fitted up for business and laboratory purposes, while the workshop is fully equipped with steam-power, tools and appliances, and employment is furnished to six thoroughly skilled and experienced workmen. Enjoying superior facilities in connection with his experience of over two score years, and known as the oldest lapidary in this city, he is prepared to execute all orders for the cutting, grinding and polishing of all kinds of precious stones for the trade and public in the very best style of workmanship, while his prices are always very reasonable. Mr. Darling served during the late Civil War in the Eleveth Regiment of the Rhode Island Volunteer Infantry and is a prominent comrade of Prescott Post, G. A. R. Department of Rhode Island, and is also a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows' organizations.
p. 158:GILMAN E. JOPP, Notary Public, Commissioner of Deeds for All the States, Justice of the Peace, No. 25 Westminster Street. -- One of the most useful of all the mercantile professions is, assuredly, that embracing the offices of notary public, commissioner of deeds and justice of the peace. Mr. Gilman E. Jopp is the only one in this prosperous city embracing the full line of duties pertaining to, and incidental to the offices named. Charles Selden and Henry Martin founded this business a quarter of a century ago. It would be unwise to attempt to enumerate here the manifold duties and responsibilities, undertaken by Mr. Jopp; suffice it to give a few of the more important matters for which his services are called into requisition. Mr. Jopp is notary for the Providence banks, and undertakes the preparation and examination of wills, deeds, leases, titles, mortgages, transfers, trusts and other legal instruments, also taking depositions and acknowledgedments (sic); in fact, perfecting, ratifying and substantiating any written transaction between man and man. He is commissioner of deeds for all the States, and has acquitted himself with unerring judgment and mature discretion for the past fifteen years in his capacity of justice of the peace. Mr. Jopp is widely known for his profound forensic knowledge and legal ability, as well as his wide range of practical knowledge in real estate and conveyancing. Mr. Jopp was born in Winsted, Conn.
p. 158:VANSTONE MANUFACTURING COMPANY, Manufacturers of Furniture Dealers' Sundries and Wooden Specialties, No. 47 Sprague Street. -- This concern, which manufactures every conceivable article out of wood, was established in 1882 on Potter Street, and during the ten years that it has been in business the growing demands of an extensive business have twice forced it to seek more commodious and convenient quarters. Its first removal was to Charles Street, and its second to its present location on Sprague Street, where it occupies a space 30 x 60 feet on the second-floor and one-half the floor above. These premises are equipped with the very best wood working machinery, and eight expert hands are employed. A specialty of the house is the manufacture of cheap wooden novelties, which they sell to the trade. One of the latest of these novelties is a roller-top black walnut desk which retails for $5.00. Among the thousand and one articles which are manufactured by this house may be mentioned skirt-boards, pastry-boards, carriage-jacks, clotheshorses, towel-racks, blacking-cases, footrests, wall-pockets, and furniture dealers' sundries and wooden specialties of all kinds. In summer a specialty is made of the manufacture of rowboats and skiffs. The proprietor of this business is Mr. Chas. T. H. Vanstone, who, though still a young man, has been all his lifetime in this business, for which he has a special aptitude inherited from his father, Mr. Samuel Vanstone, the inventor of a large number of novelties and who took out several hundred patents. The goods of the house are sold to the trade all over New England.
p. 159:J. N. REMINGTON & CO., Wines, Liquors, Cigars, and Plain and Fancy Groceries, No. 247 Westminster Street. -- One of the oldest-established and most reliable grocery firms in Providence is the responsible one of J. N. Remington & Co., who cater largely to the best family trade in the city. The undertaking was established in 1857 by Messrs. J. N. Remington and Wm. Sessions under the firm-title of Remington & Sessions, and continued until February, 1890, when Mr. Sessions retiring, Mr. Edward Edgers, for twenty years with the old firm, was admitted to membership in the new firm of J. N. Remington & Co. The facilities of the house are complete for obtaining the finest grades of staple and fancy groceries, teas, coffees, a full line of canned and bottled goods, delicacies and foreign and domestic wines, liquors and cigars, direct from the first sources of supply in each instance; and they are thus enabled to deliver goods in large or small quantities at the lowest prices. The store, at the above address, is finely fitted and well ordered throughout; and the heavy and comprehensive stock carried is representative of the choicest edibles in each line, while the fine wines and liquors are specially prepared and put up for meeting the demands of the best family trade. The business furnishes regular employment for nine competent assistants, and necessitates the maintenance of four wagons for the collection and delivery of goods.
p. 159:T. C. MACKINTOSH, Plain and Decorative Painting, No. 39 Hay Street. -- One of the best-known houses in Providence engaged in plain and decorative painting is that of T. C. Mackintosh, which during the several years of its establishment has been entrusted with some highly important and significant contracts, notably the entire painting and decorating of the Butler Exchange, the Broadway Baptist Church, the Hoppin Homestead Building, the Brunswick Building, the First United Presbyterian Church, the Broadway Church and the Episcopal Church. These facts bespeak the ability of the house to execute the finest decorative art work, far more cogently than could be expressed by a detailed description of its many excellent productions; and it only needs, therefore, to be added that as to promptitude and moderate charges, the house yields precedence to none other in the city. Similar work to that already referred to is being constantly undertaken for regular patrons throughout Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut; and never less than ten skilled painters and often many more are employed. The enterprise was established in 1872, by Mr. T. C. Mackintosh, who is an expert artist in this line, with forty years' practical experience at his command. Mr. T. C. Mackintosh was born in Scotland, and reached the United States thirty years ago and settled in this city ten years later.
p. 159:CALEF BROTHERS, Choice Family Marketing, No. 79 North Main Street. -- One of the oldest and largest family marketing businesses in Providence is that conducted by Messrs. Calef Brothers, whose meats and provisions are always to be relied upon as the choicest and best the market affords. The undertaking was established at this location in 1840, and came into the hands of the present firm in 1885, the copartners being Mr. George C. Calef and Mr. L. A. Gladding, the latter of whom was previously engaged with the house for eight years. Six years ago, a branch was inaugurated at Lonsdale, R.I., where now eight competent assistants are employed and five wagons retained for delivery purposes. The extent of the firm's operations may be fairly gauged from the fact that they cut up twenty sides of beef per week at both places, besides selling a large quantity of other meats, as well as prime beef, tongues and corned beef as a specialty. The business controlled here reaches throughout the city and suburbs, largely among the better private families, necessitating the constant employment of fourteen skilled hands and the retention of four wagons. The large store at No. 79 North Main Street is fully equipped with all facilities and appliances for the efficient handling and keeping of the heavy stock always on hand, the ice-box having a capacity of six tons. Mr. George C. Calef is a native of Vermont, and has resided in Providence for the past thirty-four years, and rendered continuous service at the same stand and with the same firm until the present time, and has been a member or a senior member of the firm since 1859, while Mr. L. A. Gladding was born in Rhode Island.
p. 159:H. E. BROWN & CO., Electro-platers and Colorers of Jewelry, No. 197 Eddy Street. -- A well-known house that has attained well-merited distinction is that of Messrs. H. E. Brown & Co. Mr. Brown is a Massachusetts man by birth, and has resided here since 1870; and having a thorough knowledge of this trade, acquired by years of practical experience, he established this concern in 1874, at No. 131 Dorrance Street, after which he moved to No. 191 Eddy Street; and as his patronage continued to increase he again moved to his present location in 1885, where he is able to meet its demands with better facilities. The premises utilized are of ample dimensions, well adapted and admirably fitted up for business and working purposes. The workshop is thoroughly equipped with steam-power, a large supply of electric baths, machinery, tools and appliances required for electro and case plating, metal-coloring, etc., and employment is furnished a full force of skilled and experienced workmen, while in the business department will be found a full and complete assortment of his superior productions. He is prepared to execute, at the shortest notice, all kinds of work pertaining to the business. A specialty is made of fine electro-plating in gold and silver, also oxydizing, coppering, and the coloring of metals for jewelers and tableware manufacturers, etc., while his prices are very reasonable when the high character of his work is taken into consideration. Mr. Brown is honorable in all his dealings, and is an active and prominent member of the Masonic fraternity.
p. 160:R. F. HARGRAVES & CO., Patent Friction Clutch Pulleys, No. 101 Friendship Street. -- The Patent Friction Clutch Pulley manufactured by R. F. Hargraves & Co. is the invention of Mr. R. F. Hargraves, who is now superintending the business of its manufacture, which business he established here in February, 1892. This pulley clutches all machinery with neatness, precision and durability, and is sold under a guarantee. It has many superior points over all others, as expressed by all practical mechanics who have used it; 1. It is the most powerful clutch in the world. 2. It has no weak points to break or give out when handled by inexperienced men. 3. It may be started as quickly or as gradually as may be desired. 4. Friction surfaces are all iron, and it has no pieces of wood or springs, pins or toggle levers, or any kind of knick-knacks to give out. 5. It will in all cases transmit as much power as the belt, with case, also holds itself in when shipped in to drive without any longitudinal pressure on the shipper, and also holds itself out when unshipped. 6. For electric lighting service it has no equal; there is nothing about it to heat or get out of order when run at a high rate of speed. 7. It has ample clearance between the friction surfaces when disengaged, a point that all practical mechanics will appreciate. In rolling-mills, rubber or brass mills, in sawmills, docks, mines, warehouses, bleacheries, print works, etc., it is indispensable, and is the cheapest clutch made. It challenges comparison as regards simplicity, effectiveness and durability, and for a cut-off coupling it has no equal. It has already come into widespread and increasing demand all over the United States. Mr. Hargraves is a native of Providence, and a young man of genius, skill and enterprise.
p. 160:J. DEACON & SON, Dealers in Furnaces and Ranges, Etc., General Jobbing in Tin, Sheet-iron and Copper, No. 65 South Main Street. -- Messrs. J. Deacon & Son, located at No. 65 South Main Street, rank as one of the oldest-established and best-known dealers in furnaces and ranges in the First Ward. The business was founded in 1857, by one Samuel A. Briggs, who, in 1867, was succeeded by Mr. J. Deacon, and ten year later that gentleman admitted his son, Mr. John F. Deacon, into partnership. In addition to the handling of stoves, furnaces, ranges and heaters, these are put up in the position complete with all piping and connections; a general line of tin, sheet-iron and copper work and jobbing are undertaken; hot-water and hot-air heating systems are put in buildings of all kinds, and general mill work, including the repair of cylinders, is executed in the best style. From time to time, the firm have been entrusted with some very significant contracts, notably the whole of the hot-water heating in the Union Block; besides similar work on residences all over Rhode Island. The worthy senior, although of English birth, was raised in Boston, and came to Providence in 1847, his son being a native of this city.
p. 160:M. J. HARSON, Importer, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Fur, Wood and Straw Hats, Caps, Gloves and Umbrellas, No. 132, 134 and 136 Westminster Street and No. 43 Middle Street. -- This prosperous business was established in 1878, and its career has been one of uninterrupted success. The premises occupied comprise a store and basement, having 7,000 square feet of floor space. A large stock of gent's furnishing goods, including imported underwear, hosiery, gloves, neckwear, mufflers, canes, umbrellas, suspenders, collars, cuffs, scarf pins, and everything usually found in a house of this kind, is constantly carried. The lowest prices prevail. Twelve experienced assistants are employed and all orders are promptly filled. The trade of the house is both wholesale and retail, and is large and constantly increasing. Mr. Harson, who is a native of New York City, has been in this city for the past fourteen years.
p. 160:CASEY BROTHERS, Book and Job Printers, Printers of the Brown Daily Herald, No. 7 College Street. -- The 'Brown Daily Herald', established some months ago, is a newspaper of an essentially high literary cast, devoted largely to university and college news and interests, and it is fast attaining a wide popularity hereabouts, its present circulation being five hundred copies. This paper is printed by Messrs. Casey Brothers, book and job printers. This firm are now favorably known throughout the city for the excellence of their productions, alike as to accuracy, style and high finish; and they undertake all kinds of printing, from a plain card to a newspaper, including a very fine line of mercantile and society printing, for a local patronage of a very representative nature. This trade has accrued during the two years of the firm's establishment; the partners being, Mr. J. L. Casey, Mr. E. N. Casey and Mr. H. D. Casey - brothers - all of whom have long been engaged in this line of business. The printing office contains two presses, and other machines and accessories pertaining to the trade. The Messrs. Casey are natives of Vermont.
p. 160:E. T. EGAN, Wall Paper Decorations, Window-shades, Moldings, Etc., Paint Shop, No. 19 Knight Street, Office and Store, No. 503 High Street. -- This popular business originated in 1872 and until 1888 the paint shop at No. 19 Knight Street was occupied. But for the past three years a store and basement also has been occupied, and a large stock of wall paper, window-shades, mouldings, etc., has been kept constantly on hand. The store, at No. 503 High Street, is 20 x 90 feet in dimensions, and here is displayed at all times a magnificent stock of paper-hangings, of both foreign and domestic manufacture, in all the latest novel designs and patterns. Mr. Egan is prepared to do all branches of painting and decorating in private residences or public buildings. He employs fifty skilled workmen, and prompt attention is given to all the details of the business. Mr. Egan is a native of Massachusetts and has been twenty-two years in the city. He served in the Massachusetts V. I. four years during our late war, and is a prominent member of the I. O. O. F. and the K. of P.
p. 161:WM. TINKHAM, Dealer in Furnaces, Ranges, Stoves, Etc., Corner Wickenden and Benefit Streets. -- This is one of the very oldest houses of its kind in this section, dating its foundation back thirty years, at which time it was established by the present proprietor. His commodious store contains a large, comprehensive and complete stock of furnaces, ranges, heaters, cooking and parlor stoves of all kinds, etc., including all the latest and best improved lines of goods produced by leading manufacturers only. From five to seven experienced and efficient workmen are employed by Mr. Tinkham, who gives special attention to hot-air, tin and sheet-iron work of all kinds, while plumbing and general jobbing of every description are promptly executed in the most skillful and satisfactory manner. Reasonable charges prevail throughout the entire establishment, and the proprietor gives his personal supervision to every branch of this business, with which for the past forty years he has been so prosperously identified. He is a progressive and energetic business man and a native of this state.
p. 161:J. WITTUM, Designer and Diesinker, Pine and Page Streets. -- This prosperous business was established by J. Wittum & Co. in 1881, and the present name was adopted in 1885. Owing to the increase of business Mr. Wittum moved to larger and more commodious quarters on June 1st, at corner of Pine and Page Streets. Here he will occupy a commodious shop, fully equipped with all improved machinery and appliances operated by steam-power. As a designer and diesinker he has won a reputation second to none in the business. There is skill, originality and genius displayed in his designs, and all the work of this house is executed in the highest style of the art. None but experienced assistants are employed. Mr. Wittum is a native of Germany, but has been twelve years a resident of this city and has had twenty-one years' experience in the business.
p. 161:G. F. ALDRICH, Builders' Hardware, Farming Tools, Sheathing Paper, Poultry Netting, No. 168 Charles Street. -- This prosperous business was established in 1857 by G. D. Nelson, the present proprietor succeeding to the control in 1885. The premises occupied comprise a store, 20 x 80 feet in dimensions, which is admirably fitted up for the business and contains at all times a large stock of builders' hardware, farming tools, sheathing paper, poultry netting, etc., also a choice selection of family groceries. Mr. Aldrich carries only excellent and reliable goods, conducts his business on the soundest principles of integrity, and spares no pains to meet the wants of his patrons. Mr. Aldrich is a native of Lincoln, Rhode Island, but has been a resident of this city for twenty-five years. He is a prominent member of the I. O. O. F., the F. and A. M., the Royal Arcanum and the Knights of Pythias.
p. 161:E. P. SUMNER, M. D., No. 381 High Street. -- One of the oldest established pharmacies in Providence is that of E. P. Sumner, M. D., who was for three years president of the Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Association. He graduated from the Vermont College of Medicine in 1847 with the degree of M. D., and came to Providence in 1859, when he was established in the business which he has so ably conducted ever since. The house early achieved an enviable reputation for the excellence of its compounds, and the various preparations it handled, the purity and freshness of its drugs and chemicals, while the business expanded at a rapid ratio with a large and influential local trade. The store at present occupied is 20 x 40 feet in dimensions, elegantly appointed and fitted with all modern conveniences and facilities at command. Although an M. D., Mr. Sumner does not practice medicine, but gives his personal attention to his drug business, and is considered one of the most reliable pharmacists in Providence, where he is generally respected.
p. 161:WEST END STEAM LAUNDRY, No. 422 High Street. -- This well-known laundry was established seven years ago by J. W. McKnight, the present proprietor, who is a native of the Quaker City. He has been in the city seven years, during which time he has received a large share of public patronage, giving general satisfaction in the quality of his work, promptitude in delivery, and his list of prices. The store and laundry-rooms occupied are 30 x 100 feet in dimensions, thoroughly appointed and equipped with a general line of steam-power laundry machinery, embracing all the latest inventions and labor-saving machines. He has several agencies, located in various parts of the city, employs fifteen workpeople and washerwomen, and has a wagon on the road continually. Mr. McKnight is of middle-age, and a member of the F. and A. M.
p. 161:JOHN MASON, Pattern and Model Manufacturer in Wood or Metal, No. 121 Dorrance Street. -- Probably the oldest-established pattern and model manufacturer in Providence is Mr. John Mason, who founded his business here as far back as 1842, and during the half century that has since elapsed he has gained an experience of the trade and kindred matters as complete as it is varied. Thus, he is enabled to render valuable aid to inventors in the perfecting of patentable work, as also in the making of models of any kind of machinery for its development and improvement; while he is placed in an almost unique position for the getting up to order of patterns, and, in fact, wood and metal in any shape. Added to mature judgment and ripe experience, Mr. Mason has embraced all the latest approved appliances and methods of manufacture known to the trade, and his workshop is replete with a full equipment of machines, tools and accessories pertaining to the industry, steam-power actuating the whole, and three picked mechanics are regularly employed. Mr. Mason, who was born at Warren, R.I. in 1818, came to Providence in 1842, and is a member of the Good Templars.
p. 162:W. B. CHASE, Groceries, Liquors, Cigars, No. 9 South Main Street. -- The oldest-established grocery house in Providence is that so ably conducted by Mr. W. B. Chase at No. 9 South Main Street. This has been a grocery corner for about an hundred years, and has been under the efficient management of Mr. Chase for about five years. This gentleman has built up a reputation and a trade that places him in the front rank of enterprise and success. He occupies a fine large store, and deals extensively in groceries, flour, provisions and pure liquors and cigars. He obtains his stock mostly from Pierce & Co., of Boston, and Park & Tilford of New York. His stock comprises fine Japan and Oolong teas, Old Government Java coffee, pure cream tartar, saleratus, baking powder, spices of all kinds, broma, cocoa, chocolate, mustard, sage, extracts, essences, oils, bread preparations, mace, citron, soaps of all kinds, crackers by the barrel or box and everything that can be looked for in a first-class grocery establishment. The stock is at all times complete and the prices are reasonable. Mr. Chase is a native of Rhode Island and has been a resident of Providence five years.
p. 162:HANLEY, HOYE & CO., Importers and Wholesale Dealers in Wines and Liquors, No. 32 Exchange Place. -- One of the most reputable concerns in Providence engaged in this important field of enterprise is that of Messrs. Hanley, Hoye & Co. The business of this house was founded in 1864 by Mr. James Hanley, on Canal Street, and was conducted under his control up to 1885, when he admitted to partnership Mr. P. F. Hoye, and the present firm-name was adopted. Both gentlemen are natives of Ireland, but have resided in Providence the past thirty-five years. Mr. Hoye was formerly a member of the firm of Green & Co., in the same line of trade. In 1891, Messrs. Hanley, Hoye & Co. moved to their present quarters. Here they occupy a store and basement, each 25 x 120 feet in dimensions, and a very extensive stock is carried of the choicest Irish, Scotch and domestic whiskies, wines, cordials, gins, brandies, rums, etc., all of strictly pure quality. A leading specialty is made of J. H. Cutter & Co.'s whiskies, for which the firm are agents for this State. These whiskies are too well-known to the public to need additional commendation at our hands, but suffice it to say they are the best the market affords. The firm also handle a superior line of imported and American cigars, dealing in only the choicest brands. Their trade extends to all sections of the United States, and three traveling salesmen represent the house on the road.
p. 162:J. L. PEIRCE & CO., Commission Merchants, Dealers in Oils and Starch, No. 18 South Water Street. -- In the line of illuminating, machinery and wool oils and starch, a noted headquarters in the city of Providence is the establishment of Mr. J. L. Peirce & Co. The business was first established in 1847 by Messrs. French & Co., the present proprietors succeeding to the control in 1864. The house is one of the oldest in its line in the city. The proprietors have brought large practical experience to bear, coupled with an intimate knowledge of the wants of all classes of consumers, and enjoy a first-class patronage throughout the New England and Middle States. A heavy stock is carried at all times, received direct from the most reliable producing sources, and offers the rarest inducements to the trade. Mr. J. L. Peirce, the active member of the firm, is a native of Rhode Island, and is an honorable, reliable business man of many years' experience.
p. 162:HALKYARD MANUFACTURING COMPANY, Manufacturers of Lacing Hooks, No. 38 Friendship Street. -- A representative establishment in its special line is that of the Halkyard Manufacturing Company, which is prominently known as the leading concern of the kind in this country engaged in the manufacture of lacing hooks for shoes, and other specialties. Mr. William Halkyard, from whom the company receives its name, and the president of the concern, is a native of England, who came to Providence when a child and learned the machinist business with Thomas J. Hill, of this city. The treasurer of the house, Mr. Henry A. Church, is one of the oldest jewelry manufacturers in the State. He has been identified in business with Mr. Halkyard for the past fourteen years, under the present firm-name. The company has always been located at No. 38 Friendship Street, where they occupy the second-floor, 30 x 100 feet in dimensions. All the machinery used in the manufacture of shoe hooks in this establishment was invented and patented by Wm. Halkyard, who personally supervises the operation of the entire works. The company has been incorporated under the laws of Rhode Island, with a capital stock of $150,000. Their trade is not confined to America, but extends to foreign countries. These lacing hooks have become so popular in the last ten years and are such a convenience that the Halkyard Manufacturing Company's products are in heavy demand throughout the world.
p. 162:PROVIDENCE SPRING BED COMPANY, Manufacturers of Slat Metallic Spring Beds, Office and Factory, No. 70 Peck Street. -- The slat and woven wire metallic spring beds manufactured by this company are universally known all over the United States, and since their introduction to the public have been in general use all through Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. The manufacture of these slat and metallic spring beds was begun under the incorporated firm-name on July 1, 1891. Mr. Charles A. Slocum, the present head of the company, who although only thirty years of age, has had fourteen years' practical experience in the manufacture of the article now in such general use, was born in Bristol, Rhode Island, and is still a resident of that city. The office and factory of the company is at No. 70 Peck Street, where a large force of men are constantly employed to meet the ever-increasing demand for the popular beds which are to be found in all leading and retail furniture stores throughout the State. The trade of the house is strictly wholesale.
Continued
Transcribed 2000 by Beth Hurd
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