Washington County VT Archives History - Businesses .....Businesses Of Montpelier, Part 1 1891
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INDUSTRIES AND WEALTH OF MONTPELIER.

THE CAPITAL OF THE STATE

   "MONTPELIER," says an excellent authority, "has time out of mind, been
denominated 'the heart of the Commonwealth' of Vermont. If this has been truly
spoken, then it goes without saying, that never has a heart throbbed to better
purpose within a body politic than has here (from the bosom of a county itself
royal in area as a Commonwealth) made its pulsations felt throughout the world,
through the superb system of the Green Mountain State.

   The state of Vermont lay hidden from the civilized peoples of the world for
more than one hundred years after the discovery of America by Columbus in 1492.
In 1534, James Cartier, in the service of France discovered the Gulf of and
River St. Lawrence. The following year he ascended the river to what is now
Montreal. In 1540, Cartier visited Canada for the third time and attempted to
found a colony. In 1603 Samuel de Champlain, a nobleman of France, visited the
places described by Cartier and returned to his country filled with the zeal of
an explorer. In 1608 Champlain returned, arriving in Quebec early in July. The
following spring he set out on an exploring expedition, and the morning of July
4th entered the lake to which he afterwards gave his own name, and viewed for
the first time what is now embraced in the state of Vermont.

   In 1664, the French began erecting fortifications on Lake Champlain, but it
was not until 1724 at Fort Drummer, that the first permanent settlement was
commenced, the garrison of this fort being for many years the only white
inhabitants in Vermont. While the French were founding their colony at Quebec,
exploring the regions of Canada and rapidly extending their settlements along
the St. Lawrence," the other nations of Europe were not inactive. The English,
after several unsuccessful attempts, succeeded in 1607, in making a permanent
settlement upon the banks of the James River in Virginia, and about the same
time planted a small colony in the present state of Maine. In 1614, Captain John
Smith explored the sea-coast from the Penobscot River to Cape Cod, drew a map of
the same, and denominated the country New England. In 1609 Captain Hendrick
Hudson, in the service of Holland, discovered and gave his name to Hudson River,
and in 1614, the Dutch began a settlement on the Island of Manhattan, where the
City of New York now stands. In 1620 a band of English subjects (the Puritans)
arrived at Plymouth, Mass. In 1623, the English had begun a settlement at
Portsmouth and Dover, N. H., and ten years later they had penetrated the
wilderness to the Connecticut River. Thus early were the French on the north and
the Dutch on the south, and the English on the east, advancing their settlements
towards Vermont. The French laid claim to nearly the whole country, confining
the English to a narrow strip of land along the Atlantic coast. The English
resisted, and thus the jealousies and rivalries which had long made France and
England enemies in the Old World were transplanted to the New Continent. The
French sought the alliance of the Indian tribes and years of warfare followed,
in which the English at last succeeded in gaining a large amount of land. During
the period of the French wars, the territory now included within the state of
Vermont was much traversed by the colonial armies, and at the close of the wars
began to attract the attention of pioneers. The territory was claimed both by
New York and New Hampshire, and the governor of the latter colony having issued
charters freely, the fees and emoluments of which were giving him wealth, the
government of New York became alarmed and~ determined to check them. Then
followed the strife over title, so familiar to readers of history. This
continued until September, 1776, when the people began to take measures to
declare the "New Hampshire Grants" a separate district. The germ soon expanded
and grew into the free and independent State of Vermont; the only state in the
Union, except Texas, which was admitted by petition of her people. Montpelier
was made the capital of the state in 1800, and the legislature assembled here
for the first time October 13th of that year.

THE CAPITOL.

   The Capitol building is a fine specimen of Grecian Architecture. It occupies
a commanding site, and with its towering walls, huge dome, and massive Doric
columns, of white Barre granite, presents an imposing appearance. It is set in a
beautiful park with sloping lawns and rounded terraces reaching to the street. A
broad flight of granite steps lead to a lofty portico where a heroic sized
statue of Ethan Allen stands. The statue is of marble and was executed by
Larkino G. Mead, a Vermonter and world renowned sculptor. The statue is to
represent the ancient hero as he stood, boldly demanding the surrender of
Ticonderoga "In the name of the Great Jehovah and the Continental Congress." The
State House has a frontage of 177 feet and is surmounted by a dome and cupola 56
feet high, making the statue of Agriculture, which crowns the edifice 120 feet
above the ground. The Hall of Representatives contains seats for 243 members and
the senate chamber seats thirty Senators. An annex to the State House is
occupied by the State Library, the Supreme Court and Historical Society. It is
of granite seventy-four feet long, forty-eight feet wide, and two stories in
height. The Capitol contains a fine cabinet of mineralogy and natural history, a
valuable library of 26,000 volumes without duplicates, and the usual offices for
state officials.' The battle flags of Vermont troops in the war of the Rebellion
are carefully preserved in cases in the corridors, and in the executive chamber
hangs a splendid painting, "Battle of Cedar Creek," executed by Julian Scott of
the Fourth Vermont Volunteers.

CIVIL GOVERNMENT.

   The frame of government for this state now provides for: I. The Executive,
the chief officers of which are Governor, Lieutenant-Governor, Treasurer,
Secretary of State, and Auditor of Accounts against the State, all of whom are
elected biennially by the free men of the state. II. A senate of thirty members
elected as before mentioned. III. A house of Representatives consisting of one
member from each organized town, elected by the freemen thereof. IV. A
Judiciary, the officers of which are all elective: the Judges of the Supreme
Court (who are also Chancellors) by the Senate and House of Representatives, in
joint assembly; the assistant judges of County Courts, (a judge of the Supreme
Court presides in each County Court) Judges of Probate Courts, Sheriffs, State's
Attorneys and High Bailiffs, by the freemen of the respective counties, and
Justices of Peace by the freemen of the respective towns. The state election is
in September, biennially, and a majority of all the votes cast is required to
elect every officer, except senators and other county officers, including in the
latter justices of the peace elected by the several towns. Every term of town
officers is limited to one year or until others are elected. The Governor's
power of appointment is very limited, embracing ordinarily his Secretary and
Military Staff only; but he has power to fill any office created by law where
the appointment is not fixed by the constitution or a statue, and also to fill
any vacancy occurring by death or otherwise. By recent statues, the governor may
nominate, subject to approval by the senate, various officers. The heads of the
various state bureaus (not before specified) and generals of divisions and
brigades, are elected by the Senate and House in joint assembly—the former
officers biennially and generals when vacancies occur.

GEOGRAPHICAL SITUATION.

   Montpelier is situated ten miles from the geographical center of the state,
and contains more than 4000 inhabitants. The village is located in the beautiful
valley of the Winooski River which flows through the village receiving the
waters of Worcester branch within the limits of the village proper and that of
Dog River but a short distance below. Several railroads center here making the
village an important commercial point. The Central Vermont Railroad is the
leading railway to the village and furnishes a through line from Boston on the
east, to Montreal and the Great West. A branch of the Central Vermont runs from
Montpelier to Barre, six miles, and one to Williamstown. The Montpelier and
Wells River Railroad, thirty-eight miles long, connects with the Boston and
Lowell system at Wells River for all points in the White Mountains. The M. & W.
R. company also have a branch to Barre, running through that village to the
great granite quarries.

PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS.

   The Vermont Methodist Seminary is charmingly situated on a broad plateau
overlooking the Capital and Winooski Valley and ranks high among New England
educational institutions. It celebrated its semi-centennial in 1884. The Newbury
and Springfield Seminaries have been merged in the Montpelier institution, which
now has an endowment fund of nearly $50,000. The Seminary edifice built in 1872
is one of the best in the state. The institution has been fitted for lighting by
electricity recently. The location of this institution is unsurpassed for
healthfulness and natural beauty. Montpelier is well supplied with handsome
church edifices, substantially built and of great architectural beauty. They
include Bethany (Congregational); the Church of the Messiah (Unitarian);
Christ's Church (Episcopal); Trinity (Methodist); St. Augustine (Roman Catholic)
and Baptist.

   The new Federal building has recently, been completed and is devoted to the
uses of the United States Courts and for the postoffice. The building is a fine
granite structure, a great ornament to the village and one of the finest public
buildings in the state. During the past few years the appearance of the place
has been greatly improved by the erection of several large and costly public
buildings, among which may be mentioned the Blanchard Opera House, the Life
Insurance building, the Pavilion hotel and a very handsome edifice erected by
the Lane Manufacturing Company. Montpelier has two old established and widely
known newspapers. The Watchman Company publish the Vermont Watchman, an
enterprising and ably conducted weekly paper. The Vermont Chronicle and the New
Hampshire Journal, both Congregational papers, are published weekly by the
Watchman Company. The Argus and Patriot, one of the-leading Democratic papers of
the state, is published weekly.

PUBLIC MEN, PAST AND PRESENT.

   As the capital of the state since the beginning of the present century,
Montpelier has been the home of many eminent men who have been famous in both
political, commercial, financial, and literary life. Among each may be named
Hon. Samuel Prentice, U. S. Senator from 1831 to 1842; Hon. Wm. Upham, U. S.
Senator from 1843 to 1855; Honorable Lucius B. Peck, member of Congress from
1847 to 1851; Hon. Eliakim P. Walton, member of Congress from 1857 to 1863; Hon.
Chas. W. Willard, member of Congress from 1869 to 1875 > Chas. G. Eastman, one
of Vermont's greatest poets; Rev. Wm. H. Lord, the eminent and scholarly divine;
Dr. Julius Y. Dewey, founder of the National Life Insurance Company; Hon. Daniel
Baldwin, president for many years of the Vermont Mutual Fire Insurance Company;
Dennis Lane, the inventor of the Circular Saw; Daniel P. Thompson, the author of
"The Green Mountain Boys," "Locke Amsden," and many other popular novels; and
others of Vermont's illustrious dead. It is now the home of Hon. J. A. Page,
treasurer of Vermont for many years, and one of the most faithful officers of
the state; Gen. Stephen Thomas, one of Vermont's most gallant officers in the
Civil War; Homer W. Heaton, the able lawyer; James R. Langdon, prominent as a
financier and railroad manager; Gen. P. P. Pitkin, well known as a quartermaster
in the Army of the Potomac; Thomas. W. Wood, the world renowned artist; Joseph
A. Wing, Hiram A. Huse, Stephen C. Shurtleff, Col. Fred E. Smith, B. F. Fifield,
Clarence H. Pitkin. The Deweys, Blanchards, Ferrins, Pecks, Clarks, Kemps,
Carltons, Hydes, Scribners, Crosses, Wilders, Fullers, Atkinses, Wheelocks,
Gleasons, Putnams, Taplins, Howes, Baileys, Farwells, Fosters, Hubbards, and
many other prominent citizens.

   FIRST NATIONAL BANK, State Street.—The First National Bank, Montpelier's
leading financial institution, was incorporated in 1865, succeeding to the
business of the old Vermont Bank, which had been in existence from 1840. It has
a cash capital of $250,000, and is officered as follows, viz: president, Hon.
Charles Dewey; vice-president, J. W. Ellis; cashier, F. L. Eaton; directors:
John A. Page, Charles Dewey, J. W. Ellis, P. P. Pitkin, Fred E. Smith. The
banking rooms are eligibly located on State Street, and are spacious in size,
and elegantly appointed, affording ample accommodation for the public, and
possessing every modern convenience for the prosecution of the business in hand.
A general banking business is transacted, including the receiving of deposits,
the' discounting of approved commercial paper, the collection of drafts, and the
dealing in domestic and foreign exchange. From its inception this bank has
retained the confidence of the public to a marked and gratifying degree. Its
founders were men who had the rare foresight to recognize the possibilities of
such an institution, and who laid the foundations sufficiently strong and deep
to bear any superstructure that time, experience and wealth might rear. They
builded well, and their successors have been eminently worthy of the succession.
Under its present wise and conservative management it is doing a large and safe
business, all its movements being marked by prudence, caution and honorable
business methods, and it is generally recognized as one of those solid, ably
conducted institutions which reflect credit alike upon its officers and the
community where its influence is felt. Its last semi-annual statement, made
January 1, 1891 is as follows: resources, $587,862.41; liabilities, $587,862.41.
Its principal correspondents are the National Bank of Redemption and the
Maverick National Bank, of Boston, and the Importers' and Traders' National
Bank, of New York. Its executive officers are gentlemen with whom it is always a
pleasure to do business. Prompt, and efficient in all their dealings with the
public, they are naturally popular, and uphold the credit of the bank in all the
various relations of life. The president, Hon. Charles Dewey, is president of
the National Life Insurance Company, vice-president of the Lane Manufacturing
Company, and has been a director of this bank since its organization, serving as
vice-president from 1878 to 1891, and on January 13 of the latter year was
elected president. Mr. Dewey has held many public positions of responsibility
and trust, among them being state senator and inspector of finance and bank
examiner. He is regarded as one of the best and most conservative financial men
in the state. The cashier, Mr. Eaton, was born in Calais, Vt., July 10, 1859,
and first entered the bank as teller in January, 1877. In March, 1881, he
accepted the position of cashier of the National Bank of Barre, returning here
in February, 1885, to fill his present responsible office. He has been treasurer
of the town and village of Montpelier for several years past, is treasurer of
the Wetmore & Morse Granite Company, treasurer and director of the R. C. Bowers
Granite Company, and a member of the F. and A.M., and the S. of V., being
elected, in 1888, colonel of Vermont division, Sons of Veterans, and has a wide
acquaintance and a deserved popularity in both social and business circles. J.
W. Ellis, the vice-president, is a capitalist and retired merchant. He is a
director in the Vermont Mutual Fire Insurance Company and of the Union Loan and
Trust Company of Sioux City, Iowa, while the directors also include such
well-known names as J. A. Page, ex-state treasurer and president of the bank
from its organization to January 13, 1891. Gen. P. P. Pitkin, president of the
Lane Manufacturing Company, and Hon. Fred E. Smith, president of the Vermont
Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and of the Colby Wringer Company, is a director
in several financial institutions in Vermont and other states. This bank does
about three-fourths of all the banking business at this capital.

   THE NATIONAL LIFE INSURANCE CO., Montpelier, Vermont.—Of all the companies
whose methods and plans we have examined, the National Life, of Montpelier,
seems to offer the most substantial inducements. It was chartered in November,
1843, and began business in 1850. It has long been widely recognized as the most
perfect embodiment of the principle of full protection at the lowest possible
cost. The careful selection of risks is provided for and admission fees and
annual dues are placed at the lowest figures, owing to the economical basis on
which the company's business is conducted. It issues all desirable forms of
policies, while the "installment bond " plan of this company especially commends
itself to the favor of the public and has become an important factor in the
growth of the business of the company. Conservatively managed, and conducted on
principles of equity and common sense, with light expenses and the best class of
risks exclusively in the Northern States, the National is doing a very large
business and is to-day the best medium in existence for securing life insurance
at lowest cost. Its fortieth annual statement made January 1, 1891, is: total
endowments paid, $279,069.42; total death losses paid, $3,355,433.71; total
interest received, $3,468,114.53; total amount paid to policy holders,
$6,525,216.71; 5,833 polices issued and revived in 1890, insuring,
$15,-148,462.00; 21,604 policies in force, insuring, $46,362,301.00; increase
in-number of policies in force, 2780; increase in amount of insurance in force,
$7,594,760.00. The officers of the National Life are as follows, viz: president,
Hon. Charles Dewey; vice-president, Edward Dewey; secretary, Geo. W. Reed;
treasurer, J. C. Houghton; assistant secretary, Osman D. Clark; medical
director, A. B. Bisbee, M.D.; actuary, Joseph A. DeBoer; assistant treasurer, H.
M. Cutler. The president is the son of the late Dr. Julius Y. Dewey, to whose
untiring and intelligent efforts the formation of this company was largely due,
and who was its first president, continuing to direct its affairs until his
lamented decease in 1877, when he was succeeded by his son. The latter had for
some years previously been the efficient secretary of the Vermont Mutual Fire
Insurance Company, and had also filled many public offices of honor and trust in
the town, county and state. He served two terms as a member of the state senate,
was state inspector of Finance four years and is now President of the First
National Bank of Montpelier. The vice-president, Edward Dewey, Esq., a brother
of the preceding, has spent a lifetime in the life insurance business, and is an
accepted authority thereon. The secretary, Mr. Reed, has filled that position
since the organization of the company, and has won for himself the esteem of the
patrons of the company by his intelligent appreciation of the duties devolving
upon him, as well as by his sound, conservative methods. The treasurer, Mr.
Houghton, was for a number of years cashier of the First National Bank of
Montpelier. The Board of Directors comprises such eminent names as that of Hon.
Paul Dillingham, ex-member of Congress and ex-Governor of Vermont, who has been
in the directory since the organization of the company; Hon. Dudley C. Denison,
ex-member of Congress; Hon. Fred. E. Smith, president of the Vermont Mutual Fire
Insurance Company; Gen. Perley P. Pitkin, president of the Lane Manufacturing
Company; and Hon. Wheelock G. Veazey, of the Inter-State Commission and
Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic of the United States. Hon. George
Briggs of Brandon, ex-Lieut-Gov. L. K. Fuller of Brattle-boro, and Hon. James T.
Phelps of Boston.

   LANE MANUFACTURING COMPANY, (Formerly Lane, Pitkin & Brock,) Lane's Patent
Circular Saw-Mills, Saw-Mill Set Works, Clapboard Machinery, Etc., Etc.—The
wonderful development of American manufacturing interests has attracted the
attention of the entire civilized world, and Montpelier has great cause for
congratulation that she is the home and birthplace of such a widely-known
manufacturing enterprise as that of the Lane Manufacturing Company, which enjoys
a reputation and a trade, in the production of its specialties, thoroughly
national in extent and eminently creditable in character. The company is
especially famous as sole manufacturers of Lane's patent circular saw-mills, and
are also extensive producers of saw-mill set works, clapboard machinery, swing
saw rigs, planing machines, shingle machines, log jackers, matching machines,
lath machines, water wheels, double edgers, shafting, pulleys, hangers, etc.,
etc. The foundation of this mammoth enterprise was laid in 1861 by the late
Dennis Lane, who began at that time the manufacture of machinery in a small way.
His inventive brain soon brought forth the circular saw-mill which has made his
name celebrated throughout the length and breadth of the land. In 1865, General
P. P. Pitkin, fresh from the honors won at the head of the quartermaster's
department in the Army of the Potomac, was admitted to partnership, followed
soon after by the admission of James W. Brock, under the firm name of Lane,
Pitkin & Brock. This firm developed an enormous industry, taking the lead in the
United States in their important industry, and in 1873 the present company was
incorporated with a capital of $120,000. Mr. Lane, the honored head of the
concern, died in 1888, after a long and successful business career, and the
company is now officered as follows, viz.: P. P. Pitkin, president; Charles
Dewey, vice-president; C. P. Pitkin, secretary and treasurer. The works of the
company are eligibly situated on the north branch of the Winooski River, and
cover an area of seven acres. They are equipped with all the latest improved
machinery, tools and appliances that skill, science and capital can supply, and
steady employment is given to nearly one hundred and fifty workmen, the pay roll
averaging $1,500 per week. A large foundry has been erected the past year, and
additions and improvements are constantly being made to keep pace with the
growing demands of the trade. The processes by which the manufacture of the
company's specialties are conducted in the foundry and machine shops are of the
most perfect character, while the utmost care is exercised by the management to
maintain the highest standard of excellence, and as a result the product is in
heavy and constantly increasing demand in all sections of the country. Lane's
patent lever set saw-mills are manufactured in seven different sizes, and are
designed on new and advanced principles, rendering them by far the best device
of the kind ever invented. They practically supplant all similar inventions
wherever introduced, and are thoroughly perfect as regards quality of material,
strength, durability and utility. These and all other specialties manufactured
here are furnished at short notice and at figures which are invariably
satisfactory to buyers. This company also manufacture the famous "Monitor"
turbine water wheel, and do a general business as machinists and founders,
controlling not only the bulk of the trade in their lines in Vermont, but also
ship to every state in the Union. General Pitkin, the president, is one of the
best known citizens and prominent public men of Vermont, serving with eminent
credit in a responsible position at the front during the war;
quartermaster-general of his own state after the war; representative from
Montpelier in the state legislature of 1872, and is now a director of the First
National Bank, of Montpelier, and of the National Life Insurance Company, of
Montpelier, and prominent and popular in Grand Army circles and in social,
commercial and financial life. The vice-president, Hon. Charles Dewey, is the
president of the National Life Insurance Company of Montpelier, and president of
the First National Bank, Montpelier, and recently bank examiner aud inspector of
finance. The secretary and treasurer, Mr. C. P. Pitkin, is a son of Gen. Pitkin,
and an expert and accomplished official; serving as representative from
Montpelier in the state legislature of 1888, and enjoying the esteem and
confidence of a wide circle of friends in public and private life.

   A. G. STONE, Watches, Clocks, Jewelry, Silver Ware and Fancy Goods, Corner
Main and State Streets.—The time has arrived in this country when Americans are
no longer anxious to send abroad for the purpose of procuring pocket time
pieces, being convinced that the foreign world does not supply finer watches
than those that are made at home. Montpelier has a prominent merchant engaged in
this line of trade, Mr. A. G. Stone, corner of Main and State Streets. He is a
dealer in watches, clocks, jewelry, silverware and fancy goods, and is also
notably skillful in making repairs. Mr. Stone, who is a native of Vermont, came
here and _ established himself in business in 1873. He has one clerk in his
employ, and has built up his trade until he carries a large stock of jewelry and
fancy goods, his business, requiring the entire space of one floor, 30 x 40
feet. Being a carefully trained and practical worker, Mr. Stone does a
considerable amount of custom trade. He has the name for handling only the best
of wares, any article he disposes of being in accordance with his recommendation
as to its genuineness and value. He is ranked among the city's leading business
men and is also very popular socially.

   E. W. BAILEY & CO., Flour, Corn and Meal, Etc, Main Street.—The firm of
Messrs. E. W. Bailey & Co., of this village, are well and widely known as
wholesale and retail dealers in flour, corn and meal, oats, mill feed and grass
seeds, and operate a large grist mill and elevator, as well as extensive
warerooms, the latter being located on Main Street. The business was established
in 1868, by Messrs. Bailey & Park, the present firm being organized in 1879 The
mill is a three-story building, 40 by 60 feet in dimensions, provided with every
modern facility for the systematic and successful prosecution of the business in
all its branches, while the salesroom on Main Street measures 40 by 150 feet.
The firm handle the best brands of family flour, and prime qualities of oats,
meal, bran, mill feed and grass seeds, all of which are received direct from the
producer, in large invoices and at advantageous rates, the aim of the Arm being
not only to meet every demand of the trade and public, but to offer good goods
in all cases at the lowest market prices. Orders by telephone, telegraph, or
mail are promptly and carefully filled, and the connections of the house are
such as enable it to compete successfully with any of its contemporaries,
whether dealing at wholesale by the car load or at retail by the ton. The stock
is kept up to the highest standard of excellence. Mr. Bailey is a native of
Elmore, Vt., and has long been prominent in the business circles at the capital,
while he is also extensively interested in business in Chicago. Mr. Taft was
born in Barre, Vt., and is accounted among that class of energetic, sagacious
young business men, in whose hands the continued development of this community
rests.

   WILLIAM MILLER, Manufacturer of Ginger Ale, Champagne Cider, Nervena, Soda,
Birch and Tonic Beers.—The bottling of carbonated waters is a business which has
assumed such proportions during recent years that it may be safely reckoned an
important industry in every large community. The leading representative of the
business in Montpelier is Mr. William Miller, who is widely and deservedly
prominent as a manufacturer of ginger ale, champagne cider, soda, birch and
tonic beers, with headquarters on Main Street. He is a gentleman of experience
and capital, and established his present business here in 1889. His
establishment is one of the finest and most attractive of its kind in the state,
including, as it does, spacious accommodations for restaurant, retail groceries
and cigars, besides the bottling department. The latter is perfectly fitted up
and equipped with all the necessary generators and special appliances for the
systematic and successful prosecution of the business, and in this connection it
should be stated that cleanliness, neatness and good order are special features
of the establishment in all its branches. The goods manufactured here have
attained a deservedly high reputation for purity and general excellence, and
have no superiors anywhere. Mr. Miller is thoroughly alive to the demands of his
city and country patrons, and is quick to recognize and supply their various
wants in the most satisfactory manner. Orders by telephone, telegraph or mail
receive immediate and careful attention, and the demands of both dealers and
consumers are met in all cases with perfect ease and satisfaction, as regards
both quality of terms and prices. Mr. Miller is a native of Montpelier and one
of its best known and most popular young business men, expert, reliable and
progressive as a manufacturer, and thoroughly responsible and trustworthy in all
his dealings.

   D. S. WHEATLEY, Dry Goods, Cloaks, Etc., No. 31 State Street.—The citizens of
Montpelier refer with pride to the establishment of Mr. D. S. Wheatley, at No.
31 State Street, as the exponent and representative of what the dry goods trade
has come to under the stimulating effects of ample resources, business capacity
of the highest order, distinguished enterprise and unremitting energy and
industry. That these are the qualifications of the esteemed proprietor is a fact
that is generally recognized throughout the community. This house is one of the
oldest and most familiar business landmarks at the capital, having been in
active operation since 1850. It was founded by Mr. J. W. Ellis, and, after some
changes, the present proprietor came in as successor to L. P. Gleason & Co. in
1887. The salesrooms are among the largest and finest in town, and are elegantly
fitted up and furnished in keeping with the correct taste and sound judgment of
the proprietor. The establishment is one of the busiest here, its counters being
thronged daily by the elite of this community and people from all parts of the
surrounding country. Each department is complete within itself, while the clerks
and salesmen are noted for their courtesy and obliging manners, combining with a
thorough knowledge of their duties, a faculty for anticipating the wants of
customers, laying before them a full variety of textures, patterns and shades
from which to choose, so that, when the excellence of the stock is taken into
consideration, it is not surprising that rapid sales are made and general
satisfaction given to buyers. Customers can here obtain a complete outfit of
both dry and fancy goods, and of many household articles both for use and
adornment. Here are dress goods in silks, satins, velvets and velveteens,
cashmeres, prints, cloaks, suits, shawls, white goods, linens, cottons,
blankets, flannels, housekeeping goods, hosiery, gloves, underwear, corsets,
bustles, dress trimmings, laces, ribbons, embroideries, notions, fancy goods and
small wares in great variety and profusion. The prices which prevail are such as
add materially to the popularity of the house among all classes of people, and
the business is In a healthy and flourishing condition. Mr. Wheatley is a
Vermonter by birth, thoroughly trained in all the details and requirements of
the dry goods trade from his early youth, and possesses a keen appreciation of
the wants of the public in this dilution. He is a member of Aurora Lodge, No.
22, F. and A. M.; King Solomon Chapter, No. 7, R. A. M.; Montpelier Council, No.
4, R. and S. M.; Mt. Zion Commandery, No. 9, K. T.: Gamaliel Washburn, L. of P.,
14°; Mt. Calvary Council, P. of J., 16°; Delta Chapter, R. C, 18°; Vermont
Consistory, S. P. R. S., 32°; Mt. Sinai Temple, N. M. S.; the K. of H., the N.
E. O. P. and the A. L. of H., and is deservedly popular in both society and
business circles.

   VERMONT MUTUAL, FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY, Officers: Fred E. Smith, president;
Horatio N. Taplin, vice-president and treasurer; James T. Sabin, secretary.—The
leading representative of the soundest methods of fire insurance underwriting in
Vermont is the Vermont Mutual Fire Insurance Company, whose home office is at
Montpelier. This company was organized March 28, 1828, and has had a growth and
development equaled by few mutual companies and excelled by none in the country.
Its executive management is of the highest order; ability, experience and
integrity, coupled with an equitable policy, have ever characterized its career,
and it is to-day the highest type and the best exponent of mutual insurance in
existence. It insures all classes of property in the state at actual cost to the
insured, and, having no capital stock, it simply pays its losses and expenses
and assesses its members to meet this amount. Its membership now equals
two-thirds of the voting population of the state, while more than half of all
the Insurance carried in Vermont is upon its books. It has issued more than two
hundred and eighty thousand policies, insuring property to the amount of
$3,083,074.73, at an average cost of fifteen cents for each one hundred dollars
of farm property per year, and has paid the people of Vermont more than four
million dollars for losses. The company owns the splendid building in which its
offices are located, and this with 'the other property possessed by it is worth,
at a low estimate, $47,951.91. The Vermont Mutual writes insurance on all
classes of farm and village property, and renders the same low, absolutely
secure, and indicates the good faith of the company toward all its patrons. It
is invariably prompt at adjusting and paying all losses, and its record in this
respect is one of which it has every reason to be proud. It is the company to
insure in, its policies are explicit and liberally constructed, and with them
the property owner has a sure guarantee against all loss or damage by fire The
executive officers are: Hon. Fred E. Smith, president; Horatio N. Taplin,
vice-president and treasurer; James T. Sabin, secretary; with directors in each
county in the state. The president, Mr. Smith, is a native of Vermont, and one
of the best known public men. He served two terms, four years, in the State
Senate, and is now president of the Colby Wringer Company, of Montpelier, The
National Life Insurance Co., and Wetmore & Morse Granite Co., of Montpelier, and
First National Bank of Montpelier. He was a staff officer in the army during the
war, and is secretary of the Vermont Officers Reunion Society and prominent in
Grand Army circles throughout the state, also president of Montpelier Public
Library Association, while it need scarcely be said that he has proved a tower
of strength to every undertaking with which he has been identified. Messrs.
Taplin and Sabin are recognized as authorities on all matters pertaining to fire
insurance, having been connected with this company from their early youth, and
are intelligent, capable and faithful officials, standing deservedly high in
social and business circles.

   S. S. TOWNER, Furniture, Mattresses, Feathers, Picture Frames, Golden Fleece
Building, No. 39 Main Street.—A well-known and deservedly prosperous house which
has always maintained a reputation for efficient service, first-class articles,
and honorable business methods is that of Mr. S. S. Towner. This business was
established thirty years ago by Jerry Babcock, who was succeeded by Capt. Drew,
who was succeeded by E. N. Scovill, the present proprietor succeeding to the
control in 1885. The premises occupied comprise a building known as the Golden
Fleece. The stock is large, comprising furniture, mattresses, feathers, picture
frames, wall paper, coffins, caskets, children's carriages, etc. The premises
occupied are of ample dimensions, neatly and appropriately fitted up and
supplied with every convenience for the display of goods. His stock is full and
complete and embraces the finest line of undertaking goods in Vermont. All the
latest styles of burial caskets, cases, and coffins, burial robes and funeral
requisites of every description, from the most elaborate and costly to those
comparatively inexpensive, all of which are made in the best style of
workmanship. Mr. Towner is prepared to take full charge of obsequies,'
furnishing corpse preservers, caskets and all other requisites including the
implements of sacred religious rites from the moment of decease until the last
sad ceremonies of the grave, thereby relieving friends and relatives from all
annoyance and trouble incident to their bereavement. Mr. Towner is a native of
Orange, Vt., and has been a respected business man in this town, for many years.

   COLBY WRINGER COMPANY.—One of the important industrial enterprises of
Montpelier is that of the Colby Wringer Company, which has a world-wide
reputation as manufacturers of the Colby improved clothes wringer. The business
was originally established in 1860 at Waterbury by Mr. Geo. J. Colby, who was
succeeded by Colby Bros. & Co., and in 1887 the general office and factory were
removed to Montpelier and the present company was formed, with Col. Fred E.
Smith, president; L. P. Gleason, secretary; W. H. Cowell, treasurer. The factory
is a substantial three-story building, 90 x 100 feet in dimensions, and fully
equipped with every modern facility for insuring rapid and perfect production.
The Colby wringer early won a wide popularity; its manifold advantages were
apparent to all and it has gone steadily on displacing all other styles. It is
now the best clothes wringer in the world and the readiest seller; the staple
standard article with the trade all over the United States and Canada, while
large quantities are exported every year to Europe and other foreign countries.
Agents can make more money selling it than any other article of the kind,
because it gives such perfect satisfaction, and once introduced into a
neighborhood it is its own best advertisement. It is the only wringer embodying
the true principle of mechanics, while its automatic fastening and adjusting
improvement is peculiar to itself and places it above competition. It wrings
drier and lasts longer than any other, and is the wringer for agents to handle
and for the trade to keep in stock. Every machine is warranted, and terms and
prices are made invariably satisfactory to dealers who desire the agency in
their locality. Branch offices are established at No. 29 Cornhill, Boston, and
No. 68 Lake Street, Chicago, and some two hundred hands altogether are employed
in the business. The president, Col. Smith, has long been identified with the
success of this enterprise, and has been largely instrumental in placing it upon
a sound and substantial footing. He is too well known in this state as president
of the Vermont Mutual Fire Insurance Company, a member of the State Senate for
two terms and as director of various financial and commercial enterprises, to
need any laudation at our hands. Mr. Gleason, the secretary, is a leading dry
goods merchant of this village, and Mr. Cowell, the treasurer, is eminently
fitted by experience and ability for the successful management of the finances
of the company. We cannot pass this industry by without referring to the liberal
advertising which is done by the company. They have just issued a very unique
little booklet. "Facts Wrung out and Hung on the Line," which they will be
pleased to mail to all enquiring for it.

   UNION CARD COMPANY, Jobbers and Manu'frs of Plain and Fancy Cards of All
Descriptions, Chas. F. Buswell, Proprietor, No. 30 Main Street.—Potent is the
power of printer's ink and it is the Archimedean lever that moves the commercial
world. There are few engaged in commerce or manufacturing that can afford to
dispense with its service. If you have goods to sell you must attract the public
attention, and there is no form of advertising that will equal in effectiveness
printed matter. But the secret of success today is not only in its use but in
the quality and quantity employed. To attract the eye something must he produced
that is both novel and attractive, and therefore, patronize printers who do the
best class of work if you wish to reap ample returns for your investment. There
are few concerns in New England whose work is of more merit from typographical
standpoints than that of the Union Card Co., of Nos. 30 and 34 Main Street,
Montpelier, Vt. This company is well and widely known as printers of fine
commercial work, show bills, cards and similar products, and their trade extends
to all parts of the country. Their business was started in 1883, and has
steadily grown, so that to-day it ranks among the principal houses of the
country. The premises occupied comprise four floors, 21 x 80 feet in dimensions,
and are equipped with the latest improved machinery and materials, making their
facilities unsurpassed and enabling them to produce the finest class of work at
prices usually charged for that of an inferior nature. Some of their work is
unusually good, not alone for excellence of execution but for originality and
artistic consistency of design, and may be termed the height of skill in
printing. The company are also manufacturers and extensive dealers in plain and
fancy cards and folders of all descriptions and are headquarters for wrapping
papers, twines, paper-bags, etc. They also manufacture rubber printing of all
kinds. The proprietor, Mr. Charles F. Bus-well, is a native of Worcester, Vt.,
and started this business but a few years ago with a small hand printing press
and only a few dollars at his command. By strict attention to business, always
striving to please his customers, he has built up a large and flourishing
business and is widely known in business circles as an able and honorable young
man, who has a thorough knowledge of the details and requirements of the trade,
and one who fully merits the wonderful success the company has achieved through
his able management. In conclusion we would say if you desire superior work at
low prices, address them for samples and estimates and see if they do not
substantiate all that we have said in their favor.

   E. D. HYDE, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Nails, Iron, Lime, Cement, and
Heavy Hardware, Corner Main and Barre Streets.—The house of Mr. E. D. Hyde, at
the corner of Main and Barre Streets, is the pioneer in the hardware trade of
this section, and represents the results of over sixty years of honorable and
successful effort. Mr. Hyde is an extensive wholesale and retail dealer in
nails, iron, lime, cement and heavy hardware; while making a leading specialty
in flour. The business was founded in 1828, by Messrs. Hyde & Dodge, and after
some changes, the present proprietor came into control as successor to Hyde &
Foster in 1875. Push and enterprise have long been predominant characteristics
of the management of this house. The business premises comprise two floors, 25
by 70 feet each, with a large basement and a storehouse, giving ample
accommodations for supplying the most extensive demand. The enterprise displayed
by Mr. Hyde as a dealer in flour has served to give him a wide reputation and a
large and steadily increasing trade. He is in constant receipt of shipments from
the very best flouring mills in the West, buying his goods direct from producers
and first hands, and is enabled to furnish the best goods in the market at the
lowest prices, whether at wholesale, by the carload, or at retail by the barrel.
The demands upon his resources are such as to necessitate the carrying of a
heavy stock at all times, to the end that no delay may be experienced in the
filling of orders, and the trade in flour carried on by this house forms an
important factor in the mercantile activity of the community. The other
departments represented here are filled with an elaborate and diversified stock.
Blacksmiths' supplies, tools, bar iron and steel, bolts and wrought iron nails,
horseshoes and horseshoe-nails, files and rasps, chains and crowbars, carriage
axles and springs, hubs, spokes and rims; lime, cement and plaster. These
supplies are purchased in vast quantities direct from manufacturers, and special
attention is given to the character and quality of the productions, the aim
being not only to meet every want, but to offer the very best in every case that
the markets afford. Significant advantages are extended to customers in the
matter of prices, and the best interests of patrons are carefully guarded and
intelligently promoted by the management. Mr. Hyde is a native of Montpelier,
son of one of the founders of the house, trained to the business from his youth
up, still in the early prime of life, and known far and near as one of
Montpelier's wide-awake, public-spirited and most successful business men.

   A. C. BROWN & SON, Fire, Life, and Accident Insurance Agents, Corner Main and
State Streets and Granite Block, Barre, Vt.— The best medium for securing
insurance policies of every description in Montpelier is the agency conducted by
Messrs. A. C. Brown & Son, at the corner of Main and State Streets. This firm
are deservedly prominent and popular as fire, life and accident insurance
agents, representing $300,000,000 in assets, and offering special inducements on
village dwellings and farm property. The senior partner began doing insurance
business here in 1865, as agent for the Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance
Company, and continued year by year to lengthen and strengthen his stakes,
enlarge his relations with insurance corporations and expand his popularity with
all classes of property holders, until he gained a pre-eminence as an
underwriter of which he has every reason to be proud. In 1888 the present firm
was organized by the admission of Mr. J. G. Brown to partnership. The latter had
been trained in the insurance business from his early youth, and now combined
his energy and ability with the ripe experience of his father to form a firm of
commanding influence, wide popularity and solid worth. This firm now represent
the following well-known and reliable fire insurance companies, to wit: the
Continental, the Liberty, the Niagara, the Phenix, and the American, of New
York; the Connecticut, and the National, of Hartford; the Commercial Union, the
Guardian, the London and Lancashire, the Norwich Union, and the Queen, of
England; the Fire Association, of Pennsylvania; the Providence-Washington, of
Providence, R. I.; the First National, of Worcester, Mass.; the Granite State,
of Portsmouth, N. H.; the New Hampshire and the People's of Manchester, N. H.;
also, the following life and accident companies: the National Life, of
Montpelier, Vt.; the New York Life, of New York City; the Travelers, of
Hartford, Ct.; Lloyds' Plate Glass, and the Fidelity and Casualty, of New York.
Representing as they do, so many millions of assets and resources, the Messrs.
Brown possess unusual facilites for placing large lines of insurance on mills,
manufactories, churches, school houses, business blocks, dwellings and general
merchandise stocks, at a moment's notice and at reasonable rates. Their long
experience in the business is a guarantee that they fully understand the
requirements of property holders and can offer the very best possible indemnity
furnished by responsible insurance corporations. The officers and managers of
the companies named have entire confidence in the ability and Integrity of this
firm, and they are thus enabled to secure equal and exact justice to all parties
when a loss occcurs. Due notice is always given of the expiration of policies,
and all losses are promptly adjusted and paid at this office. The firm numbers
among its extensive clientele many of the wealthiest citizens and leading
merchants and manufacturers of Montpelier and vicinity, and operate a branch
office at Barre. The senior partner is one of Montpelier's most active,
influential and public-spirited business men. He was born in Sutton, Vt., in
1828 and came to Montpelier in 1854; was prominent in journalism and newspaper
matters, aided in raising the Thirteenth Vermont Regiment and went out as its
Lieutenant-Colonel. He served as reporter in the House of Representatives for
fifteen years consecutively, was foremost in establishing telephonic connections
throughout the eastern part of the state, and is proprietor of the Telephone
Exchange in this village; is president of the Montpelier Board of Fire
Underwriters, a member of Aurora Lodge No. 22, F. and A. M. and honored and
esteemed in social, educational and business circles for his broad culture, and
ready ability. Mr. Joseph G. Brown was born in Montpelier, received a liberal
education, is secretary of the Business Men's Association, a member of the I. O.
R. M. and accounted among those energetic, enterprising and progressive young
business men in whose hands the continued development of this community rests.

   CAPITAL GRANITE COMPANY, Barre Street.—Montpelier is fast becoming a noted
center for the highest order of achievement and skill in monumental work of all
kinds, and a worthy exponent of the industry is the Capital Granite Company,
conducted under the expert management of Mr. T. W. Eagan, with office and works
eligibly located on Barre Street, near the tracks of the Montpelier & Wells
River and the Barre Railroads. Mr. Eagan established the business here in 1887,
and brings to bear special qualifications, including large practical experience,
sound judgment and thorough artistic taste and skill. He has achieved a
wide-spread reputation for producing the most original designs of beautiful and
elaborately finished monuments, tablets, headstones, slabs and statuary work,
while all work is executed in the same-perfect manner and up to the highest
standard of excellence. His works are thoroughly spacious in size, fitted up
with every requisite for the business, and upwards of twenty-five hands find
steady employment here, including some of the finest carvers and sculptors in
town. Mr. Eagan is a perfect judge of granites, and handles only the hardest
stone, free from iron, remarkable for its silky texture, susceptible of the
highest polish and absolutely impervious to water or frost. His finished
monuments compare favorably with anything shown here, and are to be seen in all
parts of the country, their well-tested merits and marked appreciation in every
cemetery being their best recommendation, their only needed endorsement. The
trade and public in search of monumental work can nowhere find such splendid
specimens for so little money. Mr. Eagan is an accomplished master of his art,
aims to excel in all he undertakes, and is a young man of large business
experience and marked ability, who has built up his business on the substantial
basis of merit, and richly deserves his large measure of popularity and success.
Mr. Eagan with S. H. Forsyth, James Ingram and W. H. Harrison has recently
purchased the large quarry property in Barre, Vermont, which covers an area of
230 acres of new and undeveloped land, and gives promise of being one of the
most valuable granite areas in this granite producing state, and has opened
quarries for the production of the celebrated light, medium and dark Barre
granite, suitable for all the requirements of the trade. Contractors and others
desiring stock in the rough for vaults, tombs, or any kind of building work, are
invited to write for prices before placing orders, as the company is prepared to
offer advantageous terms. The company also offers quarry for sale. Rare chance
for investors. Correspondence is solicited by them. The enterprise is now known
as the Green Mountain Granite Company.

   MONTPELIER STEAM LAUNDRY, Golden Fleece, Main Street.—The largest
establishment of its kind in town and a most useful and important adjunct to the
convenience of its inhabitants is the Montpelier Steam Laundry, located on Main
Street. This business was established in 1881 by L. W. Watson, who was succeeded
by Charles Smith, and he was succeeded by Leon H. Lombard, the present firm
succeeding to the control in 1888. The premises occupied comprise one floor, 25
x 150 feet in dimensions. The mechanical equipment embraces the best machinery
and devices that can be obtained, while employment is given to eleven expert
hands. The work is carefully and systematically directed and the highest order
of excellence is uniformly maintained. Collars and cuffs are laundried in the
most perfect style, and particular attention is devoted to shirts and
gentlemen's underwear. The reputation of the house furnishes a guarantee that
the highest results are always reached, and it is an inflexible rule with this
firm that no goods shall leave the establishment that are not done up
artistically and in the most superior manner. Work is called for and delivered
without extra charge, and all orders are executed promptly and satisfactorily.
The prices are very moderate and the concern may be depended upon as reliable
and responsible. The proprietors, Messrs. H. M. Whitcomb and Son, are natives of
Vermont and are recognized as enterprising, progressive, and valuable citizens.

   H. T. WHITNEY, Surgeon Dentist, No. 32 Main Street.— Prominent among the
leading members of the dental profession in Montpelier is Dr. H. T. Whitney, who
has won a reputation for practical skill and professional ability which places
him among the foremost and most successful dentists in the state. The latest
improvements in dental science and mechanism are sure to find a place in his
office. The different preparations of cocaine and vapors for the alleviation of
pain in sensitive teeth, previous to filling or extracting, have proved of great
success in his hands. His parlors and operating rooms are handsomely furnished
and equipped with every facility and convenience for the ease and comfort of
patrons. In artificial work Dr. Whitney cannot be surpassed. He enjoys a large
and influential patronage drawn from the best class of citizens in Montpelier
and surrounding towns. His charges are very moderate and thoroughly consistent
with first-class work, while his engagements are always promptly kept. Dr.
Whitney is a native of Worcester, Vt., still in the active prime of life, and a
member of the F. and A. M.

   DAN'L F. LONG, Bookseller and Stationer, Legal Blanks, Etc—One of
Montpelier's business landmarks surrounded by pleasant historic associations, is
the book and stationery store of Mr. Daniel F. Long, on State Street. The house
was founded forty years ago, and for many years was under the control of Mr. T.
C. Phinney, who was succeeded by the present proprietor in 1885. The store is
one of the handsomest and most attractive on this fashionable thoroughfare, and
so popular a resort has it become that all Montpelier may, with a little
exaggeration, be said to pass through it in a day. The literary residents of the
town, and all lovers of .good reading, make it their chief rendezvous. To drop
into Long's for the daily newspaper, and a glimpse at the last new book or
magazine, is with them a daily duty. To every stranger it is, from its .literary
attractiveness, a place not to be overlooked. It is liberally patronized by both
ladies and gentlemen, old and young, from all classes of society, and,
especially during the holidays, is one of the busiest places in town. It has
well stocked departments for fine stationery, fancy goods, books, picture
frames, etchings, engravings and paintings, gold pens and field, opera and spy
glasses. Its stock •contains at all times scientific, agricultural and
miscellaneous works .from the best authors, works of devotion, prayer books and
bibles, books in fine bindings, and illustrated works in prose and poetry, maps,
globes and guide books, sporting literature, juvenile works .and toy books, with
special counters for newspapers, periodicals and .seaside novels, albums,
leather goods and Christmas gifts for all tastes and fancies, legal blanks,
blank books and school supplies. It is never without the last new thing in
French, English and American literature, and it is the recognized headquarters
for every line of goods here mentioned. Its methods of dealing are always
liberal and honorable, and it is universally popular with the masses. Mr. Long
is a gentleman of broad culture, wide observation and largo business experience,
and stands deservedly high in social and business circles.


Additional Comments:
Extracted from:

INDUSTRIES AND WEALTH OF THE PRINCIPAL POINTS IN VERMONT,
BEING
BURLINGTON, WINOOSKI, RUTLAND, WEST RUTLAND, BRANDON, FAIR HAVEN, POULTNEY,
CASTLETON, ST. ALBANS, SWANTON, ENOSBURG FALLS, BRATTLEBORO, BELLOWS FALLS,
MONTPELIER, BARRE, WATERBURY, ST. JOHNSBURY, LYNDONVILLE, LYNDON, HARDWICK,
BENNINGTON, SPRINGFIELD, WHITE RIVER JUNCTION, VERGENNES, MIDDLEBURY, NORTHFIELD
AND MORRISVILLE.

1891.

PUBLISHED BY
AMERICAN PUBLISHING AND ENGRAVING CO.,
(ELEVATORS.)
Nos. 149 AND 151 CHURCH STREET, NEW YORK.


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