M. STEINERT & SONS COMPANY, New England Agents for the sale of
Steinway & Sons, Weber, Gabler & Bro., Harman, Henning and Weser
Bros. Pianos, Foreign and American Sheet Music, Nos. 176 and 178 Westminster
Street. -- If New England is to be known as the literary center of our
glorious land, is should not be at the expense of her musical reputation;
for if the American is cultured he is is artistic, and what art is more
pleasing or more grand than piano music. It therefore follows that
he is also musical, and it is a fact that there are more pianos sold in
the New England States (in proportion to population) than in any other
section of the country. In this connection a few lines about the
oldest and most prominent firm of piano dealers (Messrs. M. Steinert &
Sons Company) in New England will not be amiss. This house was established
in New Haven, Conn., in 1857, by the senior member of the present firm,
Mr. M. Steinert, and has since steadily grown until it stands without a
rival in the trade, admittedly the first. The main seat of the business
is now at Boston, where the establishment, at the corner of Boylston and
Tremont Streets, is a substantial and pretentious building with a frontage
on both streets and a most beautiful and artistic exterior. The Providence
branch is a comparatively recent venture, having been established in 1878,
over twenty years after the original opening at New Haven. Branches
are also operated in Bridgeport, where the firm began in 1872; at Springfield,
Mass., in 1868; at Boston, 1881, and in Portland, Maine, the latter being
the last agency opened, the date of its opening being 1887. The firm
are the largest handlers of pianos in the world and have the sole and exclusive
New England agency for the world-famed Steinway pianos - controling
also the Weber, Gabler & Bro., the Hardman, Henning and Weser Bros.
pianos; they also deal largely in foreign and American sheet music.
Mr. Edward Steinert, who originally opened the Providence house for the
firm, is still in charge, and no fact could demonstrate more fully the
thorough success with which he has conducted it than the mere statement
that he carries two hundred pianos in stock at all times. He is yet
a young man, having made his initial business effort in Providence fourteen
years ago; he is a native of Connecticut. The various branches are
presided over by different sons of the founder, Mr. Albert Steinert being
in control at Springfield, Alexander and Wm. at Boston, Henry L. and M.
at New Haven, and Fred Steinert at Portland.
CHARLES S. DURFEE, Fire and Marine Insurance Agency, No. 3 Weybosset
Street. - The remarkable development of the insurance interests in
our great cities during the last quarter of a century probably has no parallel
in the growth of any branch of industry, commerce or trade. The risks
involved in fire, marine and other insurance here in Providence at the
present day, represent millions of dollars, while the volume of business
transacted grows rapidly and a number of our most solid and sagacious citizens
are actively engaged and interested in this line of activity. One
of the oldest, most prominent and responsible houses, is that which has
been so long and successfully conducted by Mr. Charles S. Durfee, whose
office is centrally located at No. 3 Weybosset Street, and has always maintained
the highest of reputations for honorable business methods. Mr. Durfee
is a Providence man by birth and education, and after acquiring a thorough
knowledge of this line of industry, he established himself in the business
at No. 27 Custom House Street, in 1871, and at once developed a very large
and influential patronage, which grew to such proportions, that in order
to meet its demands with better facilities he moved to his present address
in 1876. His offices are amply spacious, commodious and handsomely
appointed, having every convenience for the transaction of business and
comfort of patrons. He invites consultation upon all matters pertaining
to insurance, and is at all times prepared to place risks, for any amount,
at minimum rates of premium, in any of the companies he represents and
whose policies are incontestable, among which are the following, viz:
the Royal of Liverpool, England; the Pennsylvania, the Mechanics', and
the Insurance Company of the State of Pennsylvania, of Philadelphia; the
Germania of New York; the London and Lancashire of Liverpool, England;
the Northern of London, England; the Merchants, of Newark, N. J.; the Union
of Philadelphia, Pa.; and the Mercantile Fire Insurance Company of Boston,
Mass.; while for plate glass, steam boiler, fidelity bonds, and accidents,
he represents the Fidelity and Casualty of New York; and for marine risks,
the Insurance Company of North America of Philadelphia; and the Providence
Washington Insurance Company of this city, and all risks placed through
this agency are guaranteed a prompt and liberal adjustment of losses should
any occur. Mr. Durfee is a middle-aged gentleman of superior business
ability, an enterprising, honorable and public-spirited citizen, and has
served the city's educational interests as a member of its School Committee.
RHODE ISLAND SAFE DEPOSIT COMPANY, No. 2 Exchange Street. -- Insuperable
difficulties do not confound expert knaves who undertake to wreck stong
safes in the houses, business offices and banks they elect to plunder.
If the police are not on the alert, their exploits are successful and not
infrequently so. It is to be said of safe deposit institutions, the
approved treasuries of the day, that not the first attempt against their
integrity has suggested itself for experiment in the quarter century of
their existence. Inspection of the vaults of the Rhode Island Safe
Deposit Company, at No. 2 Exchange Street, will demonstrate how absolutely
this citadel of safety holds one's effects beyond the reach of any class
of meddlers. The immovable compartment safe, of which, say, you have
the only keys, has the environment of colossal steel vault work unparalleled,
as well as bars and bolts, combination dial locks, secret safeguards, inviolable
privacy, untiring vigilance by day and by night, the most expert management
and police service constant and at command. The $10 or $15 safe will
hold a good fortune in stocks and bonds. It will retain your family
jewels, relics and souvenirs, your papers of value, your surplus earnings
and your will; and to it you have the freest resort at all business hours.
The department for ladies is separate and exclusive, and in the essentials
of comfort, convenience and service to patrons nothing is hear left to
be desired. This company was incorporated in 1869, under the laws
of the State of Rhode Island, with a capital of $100,000, and is officered
as follows: James S. Phetteplace, president, Samuel H. Field, secretary
and treasurer; trustees, James S. Phetteplace, Joshua Wilbour, Henry C.
Cranston, Josiah W. Crooker, Samuel P. Colt, Charles H. Atwood, Isaac M.
Potter, Charles H. Sheldon, Jr., Wm. H. Ballou, Clifford P. Seagrave, James
M. Kimball, Albert L. Calder, Hezekiah Conant, Nicholas Van Slyck.
President Phetteplace was one of the charter members of the corporation,
and has filled that responsible position since 1877, with great credit
and universal acceptance. The secretary, Mr. Field, was elected to
that office in July, 1891, and is a native of Providence and a young man
of large business experience, wide acquaintance and high repute.
Messrs. John R. Oakes, vault keeper, who has been with the company from
its commencement, G. P. Nichols, clerk, and C. C. Garceron, day watch,
are all well-fitted for the faithful discharge of their respective duties.
With the extensive improvements now in contemplation, this company's facilities
will be as complete and perfect as any in the country; while the ability
of the management and the personnel of the trustees gives every guarantee
of the intelligent conservation of all interests committed to its care.
HENRY T. ROOT & SONS, Stoves, Furnaces and Ranges, Kitchen Furnishings.
Tin, Sheet Iron and Copper Work a Specialty, No. 248 High Street. -- A
review of the representative merchants and manufacturers of Providence
would hardly be complete without more than passing mention of the firm
whose name heads this sketch. It is the very oldest and foremost
in the line above indicated in Rhode Island, and its business career, extending
over a period of forty-four years, has been an unbroken record of progress.
Messrs. Root are wholesale and retail dealers in all leading makes of stoves,
furnaces and ranges; also kitchen furnishings of every description, and
do all classes of sheet-metal work. The trade extends all over the
State, and the patronage, which is very large, affords evidence of steady
increase. Mr. Root, Sr., was formerly a member of the firm of Eames
& Root, which was established in 1850, the firm-name changing in 1870
to Root & Bennett, and one year later, he assumed sole control, conducting
the business alone with uninterrupted success until November 1, 1891, when
the firm-name changed to Henry T. Root & Sons. The premises occupied
by them at No. 248 High Street comprise a 52 x 130 foot store and basement,
with well-equipped shop in connection, and twenty-five in help are employed.
An exceedingly large and uncommonly fine stock is constantly kept on hand
here, and includes magnificent stoves in every design, shape, style and
variety; first-class ranges and furnaces of all kinds, stove repairs, tin,
sheet-iron, and copper-ware generally, refrigerators, housekeeping specialties
and a multifarious assortment of kitchen furnishing goods. Ranges,
heaters and furnaces are repaired and re-set, likewise, in the most superior
manner, at short notice, particular attention being given to hot-air, despatch,
also all kinds of plumbing work, gas and water piping, this being a specialty.
They carry the finest line of heating and plumbing apparatus to be found
in the entire State. Estimates are furnished, and perfect satisfaction
is warranted to be absolutely as represented, while the prices charged
are of the most reasonable character, being, in fact, distinctly low, everything
considered. Mr. Henry T. Root, who is a gentleman somewhat past the
meridian of life, but active and energetic, is a New Yorker by birth.
He is one of the stanchest and most respected citizens of Providence, and
takes a lively interest in all matters pertaining to the well-being of
the community. He has served with credit in the Board of Aldermen
eleven terms, is a director of the Eagle National Bank, a director of the
Mechanics Saving Bank, and of the Roger Williams Savings Fund and Loan
Association, and president of the Presby Stove Lining Company. The
copartners, Mr. Hiram G. Root, and Ames B. Root, are sons of the senior
member of the firm, and having been born and reared in this city, are well-known
in the community, as enterprising, energetic young men, who have assumed
the active duties devolving upon the business, with ability and success,
and those having relations with this house will find all transactions conducted
upon the most honorable and liberal basis.
A. H. KING & CO., Fruiterers and Importers, Nos. 11 to 15 Weybosset
Street. -- One of the leading houses in Providence, extensively engaged
as dealers in foreign and domestic fruits, confectionery, table delicacies,
etc., is that of Messrs. A. H. King & Co., whose store is eligibly
located at No. 11 to 15 Weybosset Street, in Providence, and at No. 180
Reade Street, New York City, and also one in Chicago. This prosperous
business was established in 1864, by Messrs. Clapp & King, and was
successfully conducted by them until 1888, when Mr. Clapp retired, and
Messrs. E. A. Perrin and J. M. Nickerson were admitted to partnership.
These gentlemen have been identified with the house for sixteen and eighteen
years respectively, and are familiar with every detail of the trade and
the requirements of patrons. The firm had a place in the old West
Washington Market, for over twenty-five years, in connection with their
present stores. This firm have especial facilities and influential
connections in Florida for the handling of domestic fruits in large quantities
as well as with foreign countries, their importations reaching a handsome
figure each year. The premises occupied by the firm in this city
are commodious, measuring 40 x 55 feet in dimensions, and are handsomely
furnished and fitted up with every convenience for the handling and preservation
of the fine stock constantly carried. A choice selection of oranges,
bananas, lemons, grapes, apples, pears, peaches, apricots, pineapples,
pomegranates, figs, dates, berries in season, and in fact, everything in
the line of foreign and domestic fruits, will at all times be found here
fresh from their groves, and from the hothouses. A splendid assortment
of confectionery and preserved fruits in jars and cans is also carried.
Baskets of fruit are put up in the most artists and attractive manner,
at prices ranging from $1.00 to $25.00, and for which there is at all times
a large demand, the assortment being at all times varied and perfect and
especially acceptable to travelers and as gifts. This house has been
popular with the best classes of trade throughout the city and vicinity
from the date of its establishment, owing to the superior grade of goods
carried, and the efforts of the firm to please their patrons and give them
the choicest and most luscious fruits to be procured from the gardens of
the world, at the most reasonable prices, on which they have built up an
extensive trade, as substantial as it is permanent, and every attention
is paid those favoring the firm with their patronage. Mr. King is
a native of Massachusetts, but has resided in this city for the past thirty
years, where he is well-known and highly esteemed as an honorable business
man and influential private citizen. Messrs. E. A. Perrin and J.
M. Nickerson are popular young business men, well known in the community
as enterprising, energetic young men, who combine with Mr. King to form
a firm of energy and substantial worth. Mr. Nickerson is a member
of F. and A. M. and I. O. O. F., and Mr. Perrin is a member of F. and A.
M.
COP DYEING COMPANY, Dyers and Bleachers of Fine Cotton Yarns in the
Cop, No. 134 Mathewson Street. -- The Cop Dyeing Company was incorporated
in 1888, under the laws of the State of Rhode Island, with a capital stock
of $75,000, and is officered as follows, viz.: President, H. F. Lippitt;
treasurer, E. B. Chapman; superintendent, T. L. Snow. The capacity
of the works enables the company to turn out from three to four thousand
pounds of yarn per day, and the exigencies of the business require the
constant services of twenty-five skilled and expert hands. The house
has made rapid and substantial progress. Manufacturers of woolen,
worsted and cotton goods early recognized the beautiful, durable and brilliant
work done here, and the patronage has now spread to all parts of the United
States. The company have steadily maintained their representative
position as regards the superior character of their work, while in their
methods, processes and results they have no rivals and acknowledge no peers.
The dye is given free circulation inside the cop by means of a perforated
core, assuring perfect work in all cases. Orders and commissions
are given immediate and careful attention, and goods of this company's
dyeing are the standard all over the country. The president, Mr.
Lippitt, is a well-known capitalist of this city and agent for the Manville
and other mills in this section. The treasurer, Mr. Chapman, is a
native of Rhode Island, and eminently fitted for the management of the
finances; while the superintendent, Mr. Snow, is a Massachusetts man by
birth, and an expert dyer of large experience and established reputation.
SMITH & GREENE, Makers of Fine Rolled Plate Chains, No. 185 Eddy
Street. -- Messrs. Smith & Greene, makers of fine rolled plate chains,
have an active, most desirable trade with jobbers in all parts of the United
States, and their goods bear a high standard reputation in the market.
The establishment was founded in 1879 by Messrs. Smith & Tonge, the
firm later becoming Smith, Tonge & Co., and still later changing to
H. G. Smith & Co. In 1883 the present firm was organized, the copartners
being H. G. Smith and A. A. Greene. The former is a native of Germany,
but he has resided in the United States since an early age, having come
here forty years ago. He has lived in Providence the past twenty-eight
years, twenty-six of which have found him engaged in the jewelry manufacturing
industry. Mr. Greene was born in Providence. He also has had
sound experience of the jewelry trade, and travels in the interest of the
house. The premises occupied are amply spacious, and are equipped
with first-class steam-power machinery, while employment is found for some
sixty skilled operatives. Messrs. Smith & Greene manufacture
a superior line of fine rolled plate chains, also charms, bars, lockets,
and everything used on chains. They are constantly introducing new
designs and innumerable novel patterns are to be seen in their large stock.
Messrs. Smith & Greene are well known in mercantile circles as honorable,
enterprising business men.
GLOBE NATIONAL BANK, No. 48 Weybosset Street. -- This is one of
the oldest-established as it is one of the most prosperous banks in the
State. It was chartered in 1831, as the Globe Bank, and from its inception
pursued a policy of the utmost value in the development of the commerce
and industries of Providence. It was reorganized under the National
Banking Act in 1864, and has since had its charter renewed. It has
a paid up capital of $300,000, and is officered as follows, viz.:
President, B. A. Jackson, vice-president, Gardiner C. Sims; cashier, Geo.
C. Noyes; directors, Chas S. Bush, Chas. H. Sheldon, Jr.; John R. Bartlett,
Robert Brayton, Henry A. Monroe, Benj. Vaughan, William Gregory.
The bank is one of the most popular depositories in the city to-day.
Its resources are as great as its connections are widespread and influencial.
A general banking business is transacted, including the receiving of deposits,
the discounting of commercial paper, the negotiation of loans on approved
collateral, the dealing in foreign exchange and first-class securities
of all kinds, and the collection of drafts on all available points through
its chain of correspondents, which includes the Shawmut National Bank,
of Boston; and the Gallatin National Bank, of New York. This bank
is a steady dividend payer, and its stock is held at a high premium as
one of the choicest and most desireable of investments. As a forcible
indication of the ability of the present management, reference is made
to the annual statement made September 25, 1891, which shows a surplus
fund of $60,000, with undivided profits amounting to $173,261.73; individual
deposits, $111,893.92; loans and discounts, $595,288.32. These are
figures which alone are sufficient to prove the bank's hold on the business
world. President Jackson is a member of the well-known banking firm
of Wilbur, Jackson & Co., being elected to his present position in
1881, and is to be congratulated upon the marked success attending his
administration. The cashier, Mr. Noyes, is one of the most experienced
and successful financiers in the city, having been connected with this
bank since 1855, and is president of the Bankers' Association; while the
board of directors are accounted among our most substantial citizens and
successful business men.
PROVIDENCE SCALE COMPANY, J. T. Helah, Proprietor, Nos. 105 and 107
Washington Street. -- The Providence Scale Company, located at Nos. 105
and 107 Washington Street, is about the largest dealer in scales, etc.,
in Providence, and it is now the center of an extensive and heavy volume
of trade reaching throughout the New England States. The chief lines
of goods handled are hay and coal scales, railroad, platform, counter,
and abottoir scales, beams, spring balances, alarm money drawers, coffee,
mills and butchers' tools; while a separate department is maintained for
executing repairs of all kinds with accuracy and dispatch. The enterprise
was established by the present proprietor, Mr. J. T. Helah, four years
ago, and now enjoys a high reputation for handling only the most reliable
makes of scales, strictly accurate, of true adjustment, durable and of
fine finish, the price charged being always fair and reasonable.
The store, 30 x 60 feet, is size, is well ordered and fitted, and contains
a large and carefully chosen stock of the several kinds of goods dealt
in, from the finest and most delicate letter scales, to those for weighing
hay and coal, each line affording ample choice as to styles, sizes, etc.
The shop in the rear is fully equipped with tools and appliances for repairing
in general, and for the manufacture of abattoir scales, three skilled assistants
finding regular employment there. The experienced proprietor, Mr.
J. T. Helah, is a native of Gardiner, Maine, still a young man, and has
been a respected resident here for the past four years.
G. S. MERRIAM & CO., Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Wall Paper
and Interior Decorations, No. 295 Westminster Street. -- One of the
largest and most responsible houses engaged in the wholesale and retail
wall paper trade in Providence is that of the well and favorably known
firm of G. S. Merriam & Co., No. 295 Westminster Street. The
business was established by the present proprietors in 1890, and the volume
of trade now transacted stands second to no other house in Rhode Island.
The salesrooms of G. S. Merriam & Co. are recognized headquarters for
the selection of rare and artistic patterns in wall paper and interior
decorations and the stock carried embraces a large and varied line of goods
of the rarest and most artistic designs and colorings. The sound
financial standing of this firm enables it to purchase goods direct from
foreign and domestic manufacturers, on the most advantageous terms and
the public and trade reap the benefit in the extremely reasonable prices
quoted by G. S. Merriam & Co. The office, sales and storage rooms
of the firm comprise the first-floor and basement of No. 295 Westminster
Street, the premises being handsomely furnished and admirably arranged
for the conduct of the business. The house makes a specialty of paper-hanging,
moldings, fresco, panel and ceiling painting and interior decorating.
Contracts for this class of work are executed in the most artistic and
satisfactory manner, and the firm's services are in steady demand with
architects, builders and contractors, while from ten to twenty skilled
artisans are employed in this department. The 'Pa Crusta' decoration
for ceilings and walls is a patented process of the firm which is becoming
popular wherever an exceptionally handsome and rich effect is desired.
The trade of the house extends throughout Rhode Island and adjoining States
and the services of a large corps of efficient salesmen is required in
the transaction of affairs. Mr. G. S. Merriam is the active member
of the firm and personally supervises the entire business. His father,
F. G. Merriam, of New York, forms the company, but does not take active
part in the management. Mr. G. S. Merriam is a native of Ohio and
a young man of superior business qualifications, and his enterprising and
progressive methods have gained the house, not only a large and prosperous
patronage, but also an excellent reputation throughout commercial circles.
BUTTERWORTH & CO., Manufacturers and Importers of Cotton Goods and
Fine Tailors' Trimmings, No. 27 Pine Street. -- Thre is no better way in
which the advantages of a city such as Providence can be portrayed than
by a brief review of the extent and character of those establishments already
located within its limits and in successful operation. As illustrating
some of the advantages of this favored city, the present sketch is devoted
to mention of the enterprising firm of Butterworth & Co., No. 27 Pine
Street, who are known throughout an extensive trade radius, and whose establishment
ranks as one of the leading firms in its special department of trade.
The business was founded by Mr. James C. Butterworth, Jr., in 1882, and
in 1887 became known to the trade as Butterworth & Co., Mr. Robert
L. Keach being then admitted to the firm. Since its inception a large
and steady growing trade has been developed through the New England and
Northern States, two commercial travelers being continually on the road.
The house has been located at its present address for a period of five
years, the premises comprising two floors, 20 x 60, which are used as salesrooms,
offices and stockrooms. A heavy stock, comprising importations from
Europe is constantly on hand, so that purchases are at all times assured
of prompt execution of all orders and speedy delivery. Mr. Butterworth
was born in Rhode Island and was for fourteen years years superintendent
of the Rhode Island Bleachery and Dyeing Works. He is a member of
the Order of United Friends. Mr. Keach was formerly engaged in the
jewelry and banking business. In conclusion it may [be] said that
the firm is the largest in the line in Providence.
THE PROVIDENCE MUTUAL FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY, Office, No. 45 Westminster
Street. -- Ninety-two years of uninterrupted prosperity sums up in brief
the history of the widely and favorably known Providence Mutual Fire Insurance
Company, whose home office is at No. 45 Westminster Street. This
is one of the oldest institutions of the kind in the country, and has secured
a niche in the public confidence vouchsafed to few corporations of the
character indicated in New England. The 'Providence Mutual' was incorporated
and commenced business in 1800, and its career, during the entire period
since intervening, has been an unbroken record of progress. The affairs
of the company have always been conducted on sound and conservative, albeit
liberal and progressive principles, while its management has been characterized
by sagacity, energy and ability; and, unless all the signs are greatly
at fault, the popularity of this time-tried institution is bound to increase
and endure. Exceptional care is exercised in the selection of risks,
more than ninety per cent of the insurance placed, being on dwellings and
their contents; and a policy issued by this company, conditions complied
with, is as good for its face value as a United States Treasury note.
All losses are paid in full, a special feature being made of the prompt
settlement of just claims, while the terms of the policies are distinctly
favorable to the insured. The 'Providence Mutual' insures dwelling
houses, household furniture, dwellings with stores therein, schoolhouses
and first-class business property at the lowest rates, compatible with
absolute security, and certainly no safer or more judicious investment
can be made, as assuredly no more liberal inducements are offered by any
other. The gross asserts (sic) now amount to about $250,000; the
liabilities, including re-insurance, close upon $100,000, and cash surplus
upward of $150,000. There is a substantial surplus for contingencies, the
dividends are large, and altogether the condition of the Providence Mutual
Fire Insurance Company is of a highly gratifying character, the business
affording evidence of steady and material growth. Mr. H. R. Barker,
the president of the company, has filled this office for the past eight
years, being connected with the management of the institution altogether
some thirty years; and H. C. Waters, the efficient secretary, has occupied
his present position twelve years, prior to which he had held a responsible
place in the office. The directors are Messrs. H. A. Howland, A.
B. Rice, H. R. Baker, W. G. Nightingale, E. C. Bucklin, Jeffrey Davis,
W. G. Roelker, Wm. Gammell and Webster Knight, all of whom are solid citizens
and prominent business men, standing high in the community, alike in commercial
and financial circles, and in private life.
JAMES ABORN, Real Estate Agent, Room No. 50, No. 87 Weybosset Street.
-- Real estate is Rhode Island is booming, and everywhere indications are
not wanting that the boom is likely to be steady. Mr. James Aborn
went into business about two years ago, opening an office at No. 87 Weybosset
Street, Room No. 50, and with his practical knowledge of every portion
of the State, combined with a thorough business acquaintance with all the
details of real estate, he has already established for himself a position
in the profession. Mr. Aborn was born in Providence, as were also his ancestors
for two hundred years back. Starting in business as a woolen manufacturer,
in 1856, he, in common with many others when the war broke out, was seized
with the patriotic fever. He served two years as brigade quartermaster
on the staff of General Devins, having recruited in the Second Rhode Island
Volunteer Infantry. After the close of hostilities, his enterprising
spirit took him to New Mexico and Colorado, but, after working at gold
mining for awhile, eventually returned to and settled in his native city
of Providence. Mr. Aborn's well-known abilities and probity have
gained him the position of assessor of the town of Cranston, in which position
he displays those qualities of equity and discrimination so manifest to
his friends in private life. Any one acquainted with the rapid development
of what a very few years ago were comparatively small places in this State,
will readily believe that in a very short space of time Cranston will be
well on the way to rival Pawtucket. Mr. Aborn has property to sell
in this desirable locality, also several first-class town lots. He
has also property for sale all over Rhode Island. Mr. James Aborn
devotes the whole of his time to the duties of assessor and the real estate
business.
ATLANTIC MILLS, Manufacturers of Worsted Dress Goods, Cottons, Worsteds,
Etc., Manton Avenue, off Olneyville Square. -- The determination
of the American people to vie with the older countries in arts, science
and manufactures, and all the operations of trade, is now recognised as
a national characteristic. In any specialty to which investigation
is addressed the truth of this statement will be fully borne out by the
perseverance and courage of our manufacturers. This is well illustrated
in Providence by the career and success of the Atlantic Mills, who are
widely and deservedly prominent as manufacturers of worsted dress goods,
and cottons and worsteds by the piece, and whose plant is located on Manton
Avenue off Olneyville Square. The company was incorporated in 1879,
and reogranized in January, 1892, with Geo. S. Bullens, President; Chester
A. Braman, Vice-president; T. King, Treasurer; Chas. D Owen, Agent.
There are four mills altogether, constructed of brick and stone, five stories
in height and covering 917,008 square feet of ground, while some forty-five
tenements are owned by the corporation to accommodate their employees.
The equipment includes 2,048 looms, and 39,296 worsted and 21,920 cotton
spindles, together with every modern appliance known to the industry, and
steady employment is given to 2,000 operatives. The most thorough
system of organization is enforced, and the mills are a model of their
kind, in every respect an embodiment of the best methods and most improved
processes. Quality has ever been the first consideration of the management.
Only the best of raw materials are used, and the highest talent is employed
in the department of design. Both as to quality and price, this house
offers substantial inducements which cannot be duplicated elsewhere.
Its selling agents are Messrs. A. D. Juilliard & Co. of New York City,
while the officers are recognized as sterling exponents of those business
principles which alone form the basis of the enduring prosperity and usefulness.
P. S. EDDY, Manufacturing Jeweler, No. 27 Page Street. -- The jewelry
manufacturing industry has been developed in this city to an extent of
immense magnitude, and Providence has long been the recognized leader in
this valuable department of trade. A prominent exponent of the industry,
to whom special mention is due, is Mr. P. S. Eddy, of No. 27 Page Street.
The business now controlled by him was founded in 1872 by Messrs. Coggeshall
& Eddy, the firm afterwards becoming Eddy & Blake, and in 1886
Mr. Eddy became sole proprietor. He commands a thorough knowledge
of the trade in which he is engaged, and maintains the output of his establishment
at the highest standard of excellence. The factory is of ample size,
having an area of 25 x 100 feet. The equipment is admirably complete
in character, and the machinery is operated by steam power. The working
force consists of twenty skilled hands, and two salesmen constantly travel
in the interest of the house. Mr. Eddy is daily in attendance of
the head of affairs, and manufactures a general line of plated jewelry
for gentlemen's wear. He uses only the best materials, selecting
them with the greatest care, and gives close personal supervision to all
the processes of manufacture, thus ensuring reliability of workmanship
and uniform excellence. Mr. Eddy is a native of Providence, and one
of its best known citizens. He is identified with the Knights of
Pythias, and is also a member of the Veteran Firemen's Association.
In the times when he was one of the Volunteer corps of fire fighters he
ran with steamer Ocean, No. 7. Mr. Eddy is an enterprising, thorough-going
business man, and a deservedly popular member of the community.
E. L. LOGEE & CO., Manufacturers of Masonic, Odd Fellows', Knights
of Pythias, etc., Pins, Charms and Buttons, No. 183 Eddy Street. -- A very
significant illustration of the importance and magnitude of the jewelry
trade in the city of Providence is afforded in the fact that so many establishments
are engaged in special branches of the industry, the annual average of
whose transactions bears an important relation to the grand total of the
city's commerce. A very important and rapidly growing branch of this
trade during the past few decades is that of manufacturing society emblems,
badges, etc., and in this special line will be found many large and flouishing
concerns. Among the number is the representative and responsible
house of Messrs. E. L. Logee & Co., centrally located at No. 183 Eddy
Street, with branch office at No. 18 Cortlandt Street, New York City.
Mr. Logee is a Rhode Island man by birth and has been a resident of this
city for many years, and has had a practical experience in the different
branches of this trade since 1862, during which period he was in business
for himself in the general trade for twenty-five years, which he relinquished
in 1891 and established himself in this special line under the present
firm title. Turning out none but high-class goods, and adhering strictly
to reliable business methods, he developed at once a very large and influential
patronage among the general trade throughout all parts of the United States,
which is constantly increasing and requires the constant services of a
travelling salesman to look after its interests. The premises occupied
are very spacious and commodious, and comprise an entire floor, 40 x 125
feet in dimensions, which is admirably arranged for business and manufacturing
purposes. The factory is fully equipped with ample steam-power and
the latest improved machinery, tools, and appliances to insure rapid and
perfect production, including the services of thirty and more skilled and
experienced hands. The range of products embraces solid gold and
gold plate pins, charms, badges, buttons, etc., for all kinds of standard
organizations, such as Knight Templars, Masonic, Odd Fellows, Knights of
Pythias, Order of Red Men, Foresters, Elks, Iron Hall, Grand Army, Legion
of Honor, Royal Arcanum, and college societies, etc. These goods
are made of the very best materials, emblematically correct, and are guaranteed
to be just as represented, while the prices are such as to invite the attention
of the trade. A specialty is made of lodge jewels of every description,
which in elegance of design and fine workmanship are unsurpassed by any
other house in the country.
M. L. READ, Manufacturing Jeweler. Latest Designs in White and
Foil Stone Goods. Gents' Scarf Pins a Specialty, No. 118 Dorrance
Street. - -One of the most enterprising and successful among the manufacturing
jewelers of this city is the gentleman whose name heads the present sketch.
Although a comparatively young man, he has reached a front rank in his
line, and is widely known in the trade. He was formerly the senior
member of the firm of Read, Gardner & Co., established in 1879, who
were succeeded in 1886, by M. L. Read & Co., and about a year later
he assumed sole control of the business. Mr. Read manufactures plated
jewelry, including lace pins, scarf pins, eardrops and the 'King Separable'
collar buttons, etc., and turns out the latest designs in white and foil
stone goods. He makes a specialty of gentlemen's scarf pins, and
is manufacturer of the 'King Separable' collar button, an article of exceptional
merit, which has secured an enduring hold on popular favor everywhere.
In fact, his productions are noted, alike for beauty of designs, originality,
workmanship and finish, and command extensive sale throughout the United
States. The shop is 30 x 90 feet, and is equipped with steam-power,
improved machinery, etc., and thirty hands are employed. A large
and fine assortment is constantly kept in stock, and all orders are promptly
filled, liberal inducements being offered to the jobbing trade. Mr.
Read, who is about thirty-eight years of age, was born in New Hampshire,
and has lived in Providence some twenty years. He is a man of practical
skill as well as of energy and enterprise, and give close personal attention
to every detail of the business. He is a member of the Jewelers' Board
of Trade and the Manufacturing Jewelers' Association, and is also a member
of the Rhode Island Horse Breeders' Association, being owner of the famous
bay stallion 'Tantallon', at Tantallon Farm, Riverside, Rhode Island.
A. C. MORSE, Architect, No. 5 Custom House Street. -- The
improvement in architecture has been a distinctly notable feature in the
march of progress during the past few decades in this country. The
advance made in the direction indicated is abundantly attested by the magnificent
structures that attract the eye on every hand in all our cities and towns
to-day. And in this connection, it may be observed that Providence
is well-abreast with the times. Among the leading architects of this
city there are none more worthy of special mention here than A. C. Morse,
who has his office at No. 5 Custom House Street, and than whom, not one
in his line in the State enjoys a higher reputation for skill and reliability.
He has for years been at the head of his profession, and receives a substantial
measure of recognition. Mr. Morse, who is a gentleman somewhat past the
meridian of life, but active and energetic, was born in Boston and has
resided in Providence forty years. He is a talented portrait painter and
artist in oil, as well as an architect of exceptional ability, and when
a young man studied for several years in the former branch of his profession
under masters of the art in Europe. On his return home, he opened
a studio in his native city, and subsequently became an expert in architectual
decorations. He is a thoroughly competent draughtsman and all around
architect, and many noteworthy structures in and around this city attest
his skill. Mr. Morse, who is a prominent member of the American Institute
of Architects, being the first president of the Rhode Island chapter of
that society, has well-equipped offices on the fourth floor of the Wilcox
Building, room No. 42, and employs several capable assistants. He
is prepared to make plans for all kinds of buildings, giving particular
attention to high-class dwellings, institutions and business blocks, and
guarantees the utmost satisfaction. Designs, specifications, etc.
are furnished at short notice, while construction is personally supervised;
and all work undertaken by this gentleman is certain to be performed in
a manner to suit the most exacting. Among the structures designed
and built by Mr. Morse may be mentioned the Rhode Island Hospital, the
Atlantic Building, the Merchants Bank Building, the Wickendon Station,
Sayles Memorial Hall, Brown University; the handsome residences of
Henry Rhodes, Thomas Hopping, Thomas Adams, Thomas Goddard, Edwin Angell,
Mr. Sullivan Ames, Mrs. Beckwith, and a number of others equally worthy
of note all over the State, doing the interior work of the Boston Music
Hall also; George Snell, with whom he was associated, doing the exterior
work.
CROCKER HARNESS COMPANY, Manufacturers of Harness of Every Description,
and Dealers in Carriages, Carriage Robes, Blankets, Whips, Boots, Etc.,
W. H. Whittemore, Manager, No. 33 Washington Street. -- A flourishing house
in Providence, engaged in the production of first-class harness, and entitled
to special mention in this business history of the city, is that of the
Crocker Harness Company, whose office and salesroom are at No. 33 Washington
Street, while their factory is at Vineyard Haven. This business was
established here eight years ago, and has during the entire time been conducted
under the management of Mr. W. H. Whittemore, of the Providence House,
who is a native of Massachusetts, and has resided in Providence the past
eight years. He is a thoroughly progressive business man, and has
developed a large, superior trade, extending all throughout New England.
The two stores and basement occupied are each 16 x 87 feet in dimensions,
and carriage-room 32 x 87, and a heavy stock is at all times kept on hand,
embracing a complete assortment of harness of every description, also carriage
robes, blankets, whips, boots, etc., and a fine line of light carriages
and road wagons. The factory at Vineyard Haven is one of the largest
of the kind in New England, is equipped with the latest improved machinery
and appliances, and employment is found for a force of one hundred skilled
hands. Both a wholesale and retail demand is supplied and all goods
sold by the company are guaranteed to be exactly as represented.
The house has been a prominent factor in promoting the best interests of
the commerce of this State, and the reputation it sustains has been fully
earned, as it is well merited.
MERCHANTS NATIONAL BANK, No. 46 Weybosset Street. -- Not only does Providence maintain preeminence as a city of vast industrial interests, but also as a great financial center. The extent of the banking and fiscal operations carried on here is something enormous, and the volume of business affords evidence of steady and substantial increase. Notable among the institutions contributing to the sum of activity in the line indicated in this city, is the stanch and reliable Mechanics National Bank, No. 46 Weybosset Street, which is one of the oldest and strongest corporations of the kind in the State. It has been in existence nearly seventy years, and has passed through the various seasons of depression and periods of stringency in the money market with credit and usefulness unimpaired and stability unshaken. The history of the 'Mechanics' has been an unbroken record of progress. It was incorporated in 1823 as a state bank and re-organized under the national banking laws of 1865. Its career during the entire period has been marked by uninterrupted prosperity, and all the indications are that the popularity of this time-tried institution is bound to endure. The bank has always been conducted on sound and conservative business principles and its management characterized by sagacity, energy and ability; and its affairs to-day are in a condition highly gratifying to its officers, directors and stockholders. The Mechanics National Bank has a capital of $500,000, a surplus fund amounting to upward of $100,000, with $25,000 undivided profits, and the deposits are above $400,000, while the business transacted grows apace. The banking-offices are commodious, very finely fitted up and well-equipped, and an efficient clerical staff is employed. Besides deposits, loans and discounts, a general banking business is done, the correspondents being the National Bank of Commerce of Boston and the Central National Bank of New York. Collections are made on all points; foreign and American exchange is bought and sold, and bills of exchange, letters of credit, etc., are procured. Drafts on Great Britian and Ireland are issued; commercial paper is negotiated, and in short, all operations comprehended in legitimate banking are engaged in. The president of the bank is James H. Chace and the cashier, S. H. Tingley, the board of directors being composed of J. H. Chace, Eugene W. Mason, Howard O. Sturges, Rowland G. Hazard, Henry F. Lippitt, John H. Congdon, Charles C. Harrington. The gentlemen above named are all well and favorably known in financial and commercial circles for their integrity and probity of character and are among the most respected citizens of Rhode Island.
Illustration, also on page 77: Federal Street Grammar School
M. DEWING, (Successor to Dewing & Monsell), Wholesale and Retail
Dealer in Fish, Oysters, Clams, Scollops, Etc., No. 24 Exchange Place.
-- The trade in oysters has steadily increased in magnitude during the
past half century, and is now a most important department of American industry.
The oldest and leading house in Providence in this line is that of Mr.
M. Dewing, of No. 24 Exchange Place. This is the most extensive firm
of the kind in the State. The enterprise was originally founded in 1849
by David Kelton, who, in 1852, was succeeded by Mr. P. E. Nichols, the
firm becoming P. E. Nichols & Co., in 1857, Mr. Dewing being the partner
in the firm. In 1866 the firm changed to Dewing & Monsell, this
copartnership lasting for fourteen years, when Mr. Dewing became sole proprietor.
The business has always been carried on at the same address, the premises
occupied consisting of a commodious store, 20 x 60 feet in area.
Mr. Dewing employs fourteen hands, owns half a dozen oyster boats, and
is proprietor of oyster beds at Nyatt on the Providence River, the same
being over one hundred acres in extent. The oysters produced at these
beds are the choicest to be found in the market, and are popularly known
as Nyatt Points. Mr. Dewing handles from 12,000 to 14,000 bushels
of oysters every year. Besides dealing in oysters he is also a wholesale
and retail merchant in fish, clams, scollops and seafood of all kinds.
Oysters are put up in the best manner, and sent to any part of the country,
all orders being filled in the most satisfactory manner. Mr. Dewing
is a native of Mender, Worcester County, Mass., and has resided in this
city since 1857. He is a prominent member of the Knights Templar,
F. and A. M., takes an active interest in everything having for its object
the advancement of the community's interest, and is a business man with
whom all dealings are conducted upon a basis of fairness and a desire to
promote the best interests of his patrons.
H. MIDWOOD & SONS, Wholesalers of Grocers' Sundries, Salt and Smoked
Fish; Corner of Crawford Square and Dyer Street. -- An honorable and successful
career of nine years has given the well-known grocers' supply house of
H. Midwood & Sons a deservedly high standing in the thoroughfares of
commerce and trade in Providence. The firm is composed of Mr. H.
Midwood, the senior member, a native of Yorkshire, England, who has been
a resident of this city for the past thirty-eight years, and his three
sons, Messrs. William H. Midwood, George A. Midwood, Walter Midwood, all
young men born in this city. They handle paper, paper bags, beans, dried
fruits, canned goods and grocers' sundries generally, but devote their
energies mainly and make a specialty of salt and smoked fish. It
is no exaggeration to say that they are the largest dry fish dealers in
Rhode Island. In September, 1891, they moved to their present commodious
quarters, where they have a store and basement covering an area of 13,000
square feet. Their business was always located in the vicinity of
their present quarters. They employ ten experienced men on the
premises to attend to customers, etc., and have five traveling salesmen
constantly on the road to look after their extensive out-of-town trade
in Rhode Island, Eastern Connecticut and in Southern Massachusetts.
The methods by which this business has been brought to its present dimensions,
have been a close attention to detail, and a sterling honesty of purpose.
The firm's chief aim has ever been the welfare of its patrons; prices are
always the lowest consistent with quality. The annual sales now reach
a handsome total and are rising each year. Houses of this kind go
far toward buiding up the wholesale trade of a great center of trade as
Providence admittedly is.
STEPHEN D. ANDREWS, Foreign and Domestic Salt, Baled Hay and Straw,
No. 148 Dyer Street. -- The oldest and largest house in Providence
engaged in the salt trade is that of Mr. Stephen D. Andrews, located at
No. 148 Dyer Street. This representative house was founded in 1842,
by Mr. Ebenezer Andrews, who was succeeded in 1848 by his son, the present
proprietor. He handles both foreign and domestic salt in vast quantities,
and is especially prominent in the trade, as agent for the Retsolf Salt
Mine, of New York, the only operative salt mine in the United States, operating
an 1,120-foot shaft, and having a capacity of producing 3,000 tons of salt
daily. The Retsolf Natural Mineral Salt is sold in lumps for horses
and cattle, and crushed for ice cream, hides, refrigerators, manufacturing
purposes, removing ice and snow, salting ships and seines, soapmakers,
etc. Mr. Andrews also handles the celebrated Genesee Natural Crystal
Salt, the best in the world for butter and cheese, including the 'Velvet
Grain' table salt, in three-pound cartons, and two to fourteen-pound packets,
and loose in barrels. He also carries pure salt crystals, Diamond
Crystal Salt, ground beef scraps and ground oyster shells for poultry;
pure Canada hardwood ashes, unleached and sifted; and Ames' Animal Fertilizer
and ground bone; also bailed hay and straw. The buildings occupied
for trade and storage purposes are situated on the river front, and the
premises are connected by side track with the railway system of the city;
so that boats and cars are unloaded into the storehouses, and there is
ample storage capacity for 8,000 tons of salt. Salt comes in cargo
lots, from the West Indies and Mediterranean ports, while domestic salt
comes in car lots from New York and Michigan. Cargoes of one thousand
tons are received at a time, boats arriving every two months from foreign
ports, while over one thousand carloads of domestic salt were handled by
this house last year. The salt sold by Mr. Andrews may be considered
as unexcelled, if equaled, for dairy, table and culinary purposes, while
the prices quoted are always regulated by the market. His house is
the leading source of supply in this line in Rhode Island, and enjoys a
large and permanent trade. Mr. Andrews is a Massachusetts man by
birth, who came to this city, in 1837, when fifteen years of age, and is
still active in business affairs, the recognized authority in the salt
trade, and enjoying the esteem and confidence of this community, for his
long, honorable and successful business career.
BROWNELL, FIELD & CO., successors to S. H. Brownell & Co., Wholesale
Grocers and Spice Millers, Importers and Jobbers of Teas and Coffees, Nos.
41 to 51 Canal Street. -- The house of Messrs. Brownell, Field & Co.,
the wholesale grocers and spice millers, at Nos. 41 to 51 Canal Street,
is one of those well-established and substantial concerns that do credit
to the city. It was founded in 1857, by Messrs. S. and W. Foster,
who were succeeded in turn by the firms of Foster, Speer & Fisher;
Foster, Fisher & Co.; Parsons, Bugbee & Co.; Bugbee & Brownell
and S. H. Brownell & Co., until 1890, when the present firm was organized.
It long ago took rank with the strongest and most successful of local enterprises.
The business premises comprise an entire six-story building, 50 x 125 feet
in dimensions, the spicemills being fully equipped with improved machinery
and ample steam-power, while employment is given in all departments to
thirty skilled hands. The firm are extensive importers and jobbers
of teas and coffees, and they always carry in stock full supplies of fresh
crop Oolong, Japan, Gunpowder, Imperial, Young Hyson, English Breakfast
and China green teas; the choicest Mocha and Java coffees, sugars, syrups
and molasses; flour, cereals, and farinaceous goods; foreign and domestic
dried fruits, nuts, raisins and prunes; preserved fruits in glass and domestic
canned goods, olives and olive oil, maccaroni and vermicelli, chocolates
and cocoas, mustards and catsups, capers and sauces, preserves and pickles,
jams and jellies, condiments and table delicacies. The trade can
at all times select here with perfect confidence, a first-class, salable
and appreciated stock. The firm put up coffee in one and two pound cans
for family use, and are especially prominent as manufacturers of the Bugbee
& Brownell brand of pure spices, mustards, extracts, salad-dressing
and cream of tartar. All these goods are absolutely pure, and, with
the processes used, the full strength, flavor and excellence of the spices
and extracts are preserved unimpaired. The reliability and superiority
of the products are so thoroughly understood and appreciated that they
practically supplant all rival productions wherever introduced. The
house commands every favorable opportunity of the market for the purchase
of raw materials and consequently can offer unsurpassed inducements to
buyers. The spices made here are in great and growing demand all
through the New England, Middle and Southern States, while the firm's wholesale
grocery trade is especially heavy and permanent in the States of Rhode
Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. A corps of eight traveling
men represent the house to the trade, and all orders receive immediate
and careful attention. This firm is accounted among the most responsible
and successful wholesale grocery houses in the city, while as spice millers
they have built up an establishment that is prepared to battle on even
terms with its most formidable competitors in any part of the country.
RHODE ISLAND COUPLING COMPANY, J. N. Gardner, Treasurer and Manager,
Nos. 112 and 114 Dorrance Street. -- The leading headquarters in
this section of the country for supplies and equipments of every kind for
fire extinguishment is the establishment of the Rhode Island Coupling Company,
located at Nos. 112 and 114 Dorrance Street. This company made a
specialty of fire and mill hose of all grades, while repairs are an important
feature, and estimates are promptly furnished and satisfaction guaranteed.
The business was originally established in 1870, by Wm. A. Caswell, who
gave place to E. M. Waldron in 1873, and in 1890 Mr. J. N. Gardner succeeded
to the management of the present company. The premises occupied for
manufacturing and sales purposes are spacious in size, thoroughly equipped
with improved machinery and ample steam-power, and every modern facility
is at hand for insuring rapid and perfect production. An important
specialty of this company is the Waldron controlling nozzle, which has
the following advantages: It closes gradually, requires three full
turns to open or close, using from two to three seconds of time, takes
less time to operate than is required to start many of the quick-closing
nozzles under pressure, is just slow, yet positive enough in its
action to prevent water hammer or bursting of hose when time is valuable,
each half-turn of the screw relieving the pressure and saving the doubling
and trebling up of pressure that the sudden jerk of handles or levers or
quick shut-offs cause and which form such a disastrous feature at a great
many fires, especially when the hose has been in service a few years.
This nozzle is almost a new creation in every particular and a necessary
appliance in fire-fighting. In a number of instances these nozzles
have been manipulated for hours with the thermometer below zero, and at
the great Aldrich House fire in this city, February 15 and 16, 1888, when
the whole business portion of Providence was threatened, they were used
for twenty-four hours with the thermometer ranging from 12* to 18* below
zero, and the water froze as it struck the building, crystalizing two city
blocks of ruins. In this and other large cities, dozens of these
nozzles have been in service twelve to fifteen years, and are good for
as many more. These nozzles are not an experiment, as is shown not
only from the increasing orders received, but from the high endorsement
buyers and users give them. The Waldron flexible flay pipe is made
of the strongest treated fabric, with which nickeled brass wire is interwoven,
and the whole lined with the best Para rubber and fitted with patent-bronze
metal mountings; is flexible and always bends straight of itself.
These and other specialties are in great and growing demand in the United
States, South America, Mexico and other foreign countries. Orders
receive immediate attention, and terms and prices are fair and equitable.
Mr. Gardner is a native of New Jersey, a resident of this city for the past
twenty years, and a successful manufacturer, thoroughly enterprising and
reliable. The company is getting ready for publication a complete
catalogue of the goods made and sold by them, which will be an encyclopedia
of fire appliances in the largest sense. It will be handsomely bound
in cloth and worthy of a place in any office library. It will comprise
about 300 pages, with about the same number of illustrations.
THIRD NATIONAL BANK, No. 137 Westminster Street. -- As a natural result
of the great industrial and commercial interests of Providence, aggregating
so many tens of millions in capital and plant, her manufacturers and merchants
have need of the most extended financial facilities, and it is a matter
for congratulations that the Third National Bank has so long, so ably and
so satisfactorily afforded such a safe, convenient and reliable depository
to the business men of Providence and vicinity. This bank has had
an honorable and successful career. It was duly incorporated in 1865,
and has ever proved a tower of strength to this community. The Board
of Directors includes the president, Mr. Oliver A. Washburn, Jr., the vice-president,
A. L. Sayles, Esq., and Messrs. Wm. F. Sayles, Wm. P. Chapin, John Eddy,
Wm. H. Perry and Edward H. Mason. These names are synonymouse with
stability and integrity and their sound discretion and administrative capacity
have become generally recognized. President Washburn, a wealthy capitalist
and useful, public-spirited citizen of Providence, has been at the head
of this institution from its inception, giving it the benefit of his personal
attention and guidance, and knows the bank's depositors and patrons personally.
The cashier, Mr. F. W. Gale, has been connected with the bank for the past
seventeen years, being promoted to his present responsible post in 1880,
and is a young man of large experience as a financier, and of wide acquaintance
and eminent popularity in business and social life. The Third National
transacts a general banking business, making collections through its chain
of correspondents, which includes the Bank of New York, New York City;
and the National Bank of Redemption, Boston; buying and selling bills of
exchange, issuing drafts, and in every way legitimately advancing its customers'
best interests; while it is able to and does handle commercial paper in
large amounts and also loans extensively on approved collateral, its loans
and discounts averaging over $1,500,000. It will thus be seen that
its earning power is very great, and its capital stock is held at a high
premium as one of the safest and most desirable investments in the city,
while its operations have been so satisfactory that a snug surplus of $100,000
has been accumulated, with undivided profits of $10,000, and individual
deposits averaging $750,000. It is well worthy of its ever-increasing
measure of strength and usefulness and justly regarded as one of the financial
bulwarks of the city and State.
COLLER & NEWHALL, Dealers in Saddlery Hardware, Leather and Shoe
Findings, Nos. 28, 30 and 32 Washington Street. -- The trade in saddlery
hardware and carriage materials of all kinds has its largest and one of
its most reliable exponents in the celebrated house of Coller & Newhall,
the largest manufacturers in this line in Rhode Island. The business
was founded in 1840, by F. M. Rose, who retired in 1884. Mr. C. E.
Coller came to the house as an employee, in 1878, and filled the position
of manager, from 1879, until the year he became a partner in the firm.
He has had forty years' experience in the business, and Chas. C. Newhall
has had twenty. They occupy three large stores, with basements, the former
containing 17,000 square feet, three stores fronting on Washington Street,
and two on Eddy Street. All are finely fitted up, and afford a complete
and comprehensive display of everything in the line. An immense stock
is constantly on hand, comprising every article comprehended under the
heads of saddlery hardware, leather and shoe findings. Their trade,
which is wholesale and retail, extends through the northeast section of
the country. The firm's name has become a veritable trade-mark for
all goods leaving their establishments, and secures to Providence a most
valuable factor of mercantile activity. They have four traveling men on
the road, and keep twenty-five skilled workmen constantly employed.
Mr. Newhall is a member of the F. and A. M., the Palmer Club and Board
of Trade, while Mr. Coller is also connected with the first-mentioned of
these organizations.
WILLIAM H. HALL, Broker, Real Estate and Investment Securities Bought
and Sold, Etc., No. 49 Weybosset Street, Hall's Building. -- As it is scarcely
necessary to remark, the real estate interest of the city constitutes a
factor of surpassing importance from a commercial point of view.
And it may be observed, also, that the handling of realty and kindred interests
is a line of business that engages the attention of some of our stanchest
citizens. Notable among those here indicated is Wm. H. Hall, whose
office is at No. 49 Weybosset Street, Hall's Building, and whose transactions
in the course of a year represents a very handsome figure. He has
been engaged extensively in the sphere of activity above indicated, at
the present location, since 1865, and his career during the entire period
has been an unbroken record of progress. For more than a quarter
of a century he has handled millions of dollars worth of property, doing
more business than any other man in his line in Providence, and numbers
in his substantial clientele many of the wealthiest real estate owners
and largest investors in the community. Mr. Hall, who is proprietor
of Hall's Building and also owns a large amount of property besides, is
a gentleman of middle-age, active and energetic, and was born in Providence.
He is a man of entire probity of character as well as of business ability
and thorough experience, and is president of the Central Real Estate Company.
He is well and favorably known in commercial circles and in public and
private life, being an ex-state senator and served in the lower house also
for several years, while prior thereto he had been a member of the Town
Council and also treasurer at Cranston, R.I. Mr. Hall is a general
real estate broker, buying and selling all classes of city and country
property, and gives particular attention also to the management of estates.
He deals in investment securities, likewise, negotiates loans and mortgages,
and is prepared to make appraisement for intending purchasers, while insurance
is placed with first-class fire companies.
PATT, KETTLETY & KERN, Manufacturing Jewelers, No. 30 Page Street.
-- Prominent among the representative and enterprising members of the jewelry
manufacturing industry in Providence are Messrs. Patt, Kettlety & Kern,
of No. 30 Page Street, who bring not only practical experience to bear,
but also an intimate knowledge of the wants of the trade. This is
one of the oldest concerns of the kind in the city, having been founded
in 1862 by J. C. Lewis & Co. In January, 1891, the present proprietors
succeeded to the control, the copartners being Messrs. Wm. M. Patt, Geo.
H. Kettlety, and Herman Kern. They have developed the business at
a progressive ratio, indicative of their unflagging energy and artistic
conceptions of what is striking, original, and beautiful in their field
of production. Mr. Patt, who is a prominent member of the Masonic
order, was born in Massachusetts, has resided in this city 28 years, and
has had 30 years' experience in the manufacture of tools. Mr. Kettlety,
also a native of the Old Bay State, came here 25 years ago, and has for
18 years been a practical maker of jewelry. Mr. Kern was born in
Providence, and his experience in the jewelry industry extends over fifteen
years. He is an active member of the Knights of Pythias and also
of several German organizations. The factory premises have an area
of 25 x 105 feet, and are fitted with all necessary tools and machinery,
operated by steam-power. The firm employ twenty experienced hands,
and manufacture a complete line of jewelry, making leading specialties
of patent rolled plate chains and novelties. They use none but the
best of materials, selecting them with the greatest care, and give close
personal supervision to all the processes of manufacture, thus insuring
reliability of workmanship and uniform excellence. Their trade has
developed to proportions of great magnitude, and extends all over the United
States, Canada, Mexico, and South America.
THOMAS GRIMES & BRO., Importers and Wholesale Liquor Dealers, Nos.
115 and 117 Pine Street and No. 24 Potter Street. -- No firm engaged in
the wholesale liquor line in Providence is more widely or more favorably
known than that of Thomas Grimes & Bro., Nos. 115 and 117 Pine Street
and No. 24 Potter Street. The house is an old and thoroughly reliable
one, and maintains an A-1 reputation for fine goods and honorable dealing
- none better in New England. The Messrs. Grimes are importers and
dealers, and their trade, which is very large and constantly growing,
extends throughout Rhode Island and portions of the adjoining States.
They are agents for Frank Jones' ale, Portsmouth, N. H.; also for Highland
Spring ale, Boston; the Bay State ale and Stanley's ale, Lawrence, Mass.;
and handle only strictly first-class wines and liquors, their leading specialties
being 'Finch's Golden Wedding', 'Mt. Vernon', 'Sunny Side', 'Sherwood',
'Ashland', and other select brands of whiskies. This popular and
responsible house was established in 1861 by John Grimes, and in 1863 Thomas
Grimes was taken into partnership. About two years ago Joseph A.
Grimes acquired an interest, and the present firm name was adopted.
The business premises occupy an L-shaped building, 25 x 200 feet in dimensions,
with entrances on Pine and Potter streets, and an efficient staff is employed.
A heavy stock is constantly kept on hand, and includes choice imported
and domestic wines, brandies, gins, rums, whiskies, cordials, bitters,
case goods, liquors generally, and ales, fine old native whiskey being
a specialty. The firm do a wholesale trade exclusively, selling in
any quantity from a bottle or gallon to barrel or cask, and dispose of
more than 20,000 barrels of ale a year. Every article sold by them
is warranted to be as represented, and their prices are invariably the
lowest figures consistent with quality and quantity purchased, very liberal
inducements being offered to dealers, hotels, clubs, etc. Messrs.
Thomas and Joseph A. Grimes are gentlemen of middle age, born at Uxbridge,
and have lived in Providence some thirty-five years. They are men
of entire reliability in their dealings, of energy and enterprise, and
fully sustain the reputation they enjoy in the trade.
J. H. ROBERTS, Manufacturers of Confectionery, Stores, No. 172 Westminster
Street, No. 277 High Street, No. 89 Westminster Street. -- Up to within
a comparatively recent period most of the candies produced in this country
were of an inferior grade and notoriously impure; of late years, however,
notable improvement has been made in these toothsome products. Some
of our Providence manufacturers turn out a very superior class of goods,
notably J. H. Roberts, who has three flourishing stores, located as above,
with factory at No. 306 Fountain Street. He is the leader in his
line in the city and State, and has an extensive patronage. The confectionery
manufactured by Mr. Roberts is noted for absolute purity, delicious flavor
and choice quality, and is maintained at a uniformly high standard of excellence.
He makes upward of a ton of candy per day, and has facilities for producing
a gallon of ice-cream per minute. The manufacturing premises are
equipped with ample steam-power, all the latest improved machinery and
appliances, and fifty in help, all told, are employed, while eight to ten
teams are in service in the summer season. The three stores are commodious,
very neatly fitted up and inviting, and a large stock can always be found
at each, including pure and delicious chocolates, caramels, bon-bons, marsh-mallows,
wintergreen, molasses candy, peppermint, and fine confectionery of every
variety; also wholesome and toothsome ice-creams, all flavors; charlotte
russe, water-ices, etc. Both a wholesale and retail trade is done,
families, parties, weddings, balls, and other occasions being supplied
in first-class style at very reasonable rates, and all orders receive immediate
attention. Mr. Roberts, the proprietor, is a gentleman of middle
age, born at Great Falls, N. H., and has been a resident of this city twenty
years. He is a man of energy and enterprise, as well as thorough experience,
and has achieved success by deserving it. He started in business
in 1872, in a rather modest way, at No. 32 Westminster Street, and from
the first has been highly prosperous. Mr. Roberts is ably seconded
by Chas. H. Hare, his efficient manager, who has been with the house for
twelve years.
"B. H. McCABE, Japan Enameler, No. 81 Friendship Street. -- Enterprising
men are quick to observe and act upon the advantages possessed by a location
as a point of production, and this centralizing of the forces of particular
industries, is a striking feature of the manufacturing operations in the
United States. This is particularly true in Providence, where many
leading industries are centered. One of these is the jewelry manufacturing
trade and kindred interests, and a vast amount of capital and labor are
represented in these enterprises. A very important branch of the
jewelry manufacturing trade, is the beautiful art known as Japan enameling,
which has, within recent years, been brought to a great pitch of perfection
in this country. A leading and progressive house engaged in this
special line, in this city, and well worthy of more than passing mention
in these pages, is that of Mr. B. H. McCabe, whose concern is centrally
located at No. 81 Friendship Street. Mr. McCabe was born in 1857,
and has had a continuous practical experience in this business ever since
he was fifteen years of age; and desirous of embarking on his own account,
he initiated this enterprise in 1876, on Pine Street, and by close attention
to the wants of the trade, turning out none but A-1 productions, and adhereing
firmly thereto, he soon developed a very large and permanent patronage
that extends throughout the trade in the United States; and as it continued
to increase he was compelled to seek more commodious quarters and better
facilities, and in 1888 he removed to his present address. The premises
utilized are of ample size, and comprise three rooms on the second-floor
which are admirably arranged and fitted up for business and working purposes.
The workshop is fully equipped with all the latest improved tools, devices
and appliances known to the trade, including an oven of the most improved
pattern, and a force of from twelve to fifteen skilled and experienced
artists and workmen are given employment. He devotes his entire attention
to all the details of the business, and is prepared to execute, at the
shortest notice, all kinds of Japan enameling of tin, brass, copper and
metals of all descriptions, in the most satisfactory manner, while his
productions portray that exceeding hard, brilliant and lustrous surface
indicative of the skilled and finished artist. A particular specialty
is the enameling of fine jewelry of every description, and in all colors.
Decorating, lettering, etc., receive particular attention, and his prices
are always reasonable. Mr. McCabe is a gentleman of undoubted artistic
and business ability, prompt and honorable in his dealings, and justly
merits the success he has achieved by his energy and perseverance.
THE PROVIDENCE BRYANT & STRATTON BUSINESS COLLEGE, T. B. Stowell,
Principal, No. 283 Westminster Street. -- The key to success in the
commercial and financial world is education of the real practical character.
This includes a familiarity with, and a thorough understanding of, the
science of accounts, business correspondence and penmanship, mathematics
and all accessory accomplishments. It is therefore essential for
the young man or young woman, seeking employment in office or store, to
prepare himself or herself thoroughly by a proper course of study and training.
To all who are interested in this matter, we would strongly recommend the
Providence Bryant & Stratton Business College and Shorthand School,
which has achieved a success in its important field of usefulness seldom,
if ever, duplicated by any similar institution. It is widely recognized
as one of the reliable colleges, where each student receives direct tuition
under the guidance and instruction of experienced professors, and where
diplomas are granted and graduation permitted only upon the manifest proof
of proficiency as afforded by severe examinations. This college was
founded in 1863, as one of a chain of commercial schools opened by Messrs.
Bryant & Stratton, and on the first of July, 1878, Mr. T. B. Stowell
purchased the property and became sole proprietor and principal of the
institution. Aided by a strong corps of teachers, he has built up
a large and flourishing school, and achieved the enviable reputation of
progressing pupils the most rapidly of any college, and enabling them the
soonest to secure the choicest positions offered in the bank, the office
and the salesroom. The location of the college, in the Hoppin Homestead
Building, No. 283 Westminster Street, is one of the finest in the city,
and the spacious rooms occupied by the school were modeled and arranged
for its special purpose. There are two grand divisions of instruction,
known respectively as the Department of Theory and the Department of Practice.
The principal studies of the first department are bookkeeping, business,
arithmetic, analysis of words, grammar, rhetoric and composition, commercial
law, letter-writing, penmanship, pen-lettering and brush-marking; while
in the latter department the student is required to conduct actual business
transactions on his own account, entering the great world of trade and
buying and selling merchandise of various kinds, opening accounts at the
bank, shipping and receiving goods on commission, giving and taking promissory
notes, making and handling notes, drafts, invoices, checks, due bills,
account sales, manifests, etc., and conducting a great busines in all its
ramifications. After several courses of the most complicated and
active business transactions, the student goes into the merchant's emporium,
and from thence through the round of duties in the office of the manufacturer,
the transportation company, the wholesale and the commission merchant,
and finally into the bank, thus acquiring a practical knowledge of every
duty he will be called on to discharge, in whole or in part, when he enters
the business world. There are also departments of shorthand and typewriting,
the best equipped and best managed of any in New England. The graduates
of this college are preferred by merchants and business men in this city
on account of their superior fitness, and a course of study here has proved
a short road to success in life by hundreds who have tried it. Mr.
Stowell, the principal and proprietor, is a native of Connecticut, who
came here as a teacher in 1872, and has won a deservedly high reputation
as an instructor and as a useful, public-spirited citizen.
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