USA > Connecticut > Fairfield County > Leading business men of Fairfield County : and a historical review of the principal cities > Part 25
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The Duncan Iron Railing Works, Manufactu- rers of Wrought and Cast Iron Fencing, Iron Gates, Doors, Shutters and Grating, also Iron Stairs and Bolts for Building Purposes, Water Street, Wm. H. Hoyt, Proprietor. -- These works, the leading indus- try of the kind in South Norwalk, were establish- ed over twenty years ago by Mr. Win. H. Dun- can, who in 1882 was succeeded by Mr. Wm. II. Hoyt.
The establishment is eligibly located on Water street, with every facility for shipment and re- ceipt of merchandise by rail or water, and the works throughout are a model of good manage- ment and completeness. The machinery is driven by steam power and a force of skilled workmen are constantly employed in the manu- facture of Wrought and Cast Iron Fencing, Iron Doors, Gates, Shutters and Gratings, and also Iron Stairs and Bolts for building purposes.
The finest work in style and finish is promptly executed to order at lowest prices, and the hon- orable methods and worth of this reliable manu- facturer has firmly established him in a prosper- ous business and in general esteem and confi- dence of his customers and correspondents at home and abroad.
Mr. Hoyt is a native of New York and is an expert, practical business man, and his success has been commensurate with his energy and worth.
He makes a specialty of Oyster Steam Dredges and Shipsmithing.
S. W. Gregory, Livery, Boarding, Sale, Feed and Exchange Stables, Railroad Place .- An en- terprise that is invariably well managed is sure of success, hence we find that ever since Mr. S. W. Gregory started in this business, some five years ago, fortune has continually favored his efforts in catering to the wants of the public in the livery business. Since his first beginning here he has shown a thorough knowledge of what is required, good taste in his outfits, and a careful supervision of every detail in the several departments and necessary equipments, which has given his establishment a reputation second to none other in this city.
The premises occupied are located on Railroad Place and comprise a fine two-story brick building which is complete in all its departments. This extensive establishment has a large number of fine driving horses, together with buggies, phæe- tons, etc., all of elegant style and finish, special care being taken that everything turned out from the stables is supplied with every requisite for comfort and safety. The accommodations for boarding horses are also of a superior character. The stables are models of cleanliness, as is every- thing connected with the establishment. The feed and care given the animals in their charge is such as only a lengthened experience and a knowledge of their wants can supply.
Several men are employed in connection with the various departments of the business, and horses and carriages can be obtained at all hours, with or without drivers.
Mr. Gregory is a native of the State and is highly esteemed by all who know him. He sends a fine coach to all the trains and has tele- phone connection.
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LEADING BUSINESS MEN OF SOUTH NORWALK.
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Joseph J. Asch, Manufacturer of Hatters' Furs, and Hat Forming Works .- Prominent among the leading establishments throughout the State engaged in this industry, we find that of J. J. Asch. This business was estab- lished very many years ago, and has always been eminently successful from the start
About two years ago the buildings were entirely destroyed by fire, and after taking tem- porary quarters, Mr. Asch at once began to build his present fine factories, and since being com- pleted, which was quite recent, he has fitted them up with the most modern machinery used in the business.
These works cover an area of nearly an acre, and are built in a thoroughly substantial manner throughout, being of brick, the walls being eighteen inches thick at the base and sixteen inches at the top. The building is divided into several departments, among which are the Hat Forming Rooms, Cutting and Packing Room, Wash Room, Carroting Room, Drying Room, Boiler Room (in which are two eighty horse- power boilers), Engine Room (fitted with an engine of 100 horse-power). On the second, third and fourth floors we find many other departments, to describe which would occupy more space than we have at our disposal.
This representative house occupies extensive warehouses at 64 and 66 White street, New York, and a very extensive business is done, extending throughout the country. From one hundred and fifty to two hundred hands are employed.
J. W. CAVANAGH, Artist in Marble, ITALIAN MARBLE AND GRANITE MON- UMENTS, South Norwalk.
Raymond Brothers, Wholesale Dealers and Commission Merchants, Office Washington Street, Yard and Wharves, Water Street, branch at Greenwich, Conn .- Possessing exceptional facilities for their large trade in Coal, Building materials, Straw, Hay, Flour, Grain, etc., Messrs. Raymond Brothers have for nearly twenty years held a prominent place among the wholesale dealers and commission merchants of Western Connecticut.
The extensive trade of the house was inaugu- rated in 1868, and from the beginning has been conducted with marked energy and success, and their trade has attained colossal proportions.
The Messrs. Raymond occupy a large three- story building and office on Washington street, with extensive yards, storehouses and wharves on Water street in this city; also a branch yard, with all modern facilities, in Greenwich, Connec- ticut, their advantages for receipt, storage and shipments are unsurpassed by any house in their line in New England, and, indeed equaled by few.
The firm manufacture Cement Pipe, put down Wells, build Reservoirs, and are heavy dealers in all kinds of Coal for manufacturing and domes- tie purposes, Hard and Soft Wood, and every desirable article in building materials, Blue and Brown Stone, Granite, Fire Brick, Clay, Fertiliz- ers, Drain Pipe, Terra Cotta Ornaments, Hay. Straw, Flour, Grain, Salt, Fish, Oil, Soap, etc.
Consignments of anything in their line have prompt personal attention and merchandise is handled to the best advantage of consigners, at low rates of commission, the facilities for prompt, advantageous sales being all that could be desir- ed. Prompt returns are made, and satisfaction guaranteed, and the extensive acquaintance and standing of the house in the markets at home and abroad make this a desirable firm with which to establish and maintain business relations.
The firm are agents for the celebrated Averill Chemical Paint, and have at all times an im- mense stock of merchandise available for imme- diate orders, and in all their engagements are- prompt, reliable and accommodating. The Messrs. Raymond make contracts for Bridges, Sewers, Landscape Gardening, Painting, Grad- ing, Flag and Cement Walks, Trucking, etc., and employ a large force of skilled workmen and mecbanies in their business.
Messrs. Wm. T. and Thos. I. Raymond are the individual members of this successful firm. They are natives of Connecticut and are promi- nent and influential citizens of this thriving city.
H. Krieger, Dealer in Faney Goods, Ribbons, Millinery Goods, etc., Mahackemo Hotel Block, Main Street .- Here is a business house, one of the first in this city, having been established in 1868, when the city was in its infancy. Having worked himself in the ways of the people, the proprietor always has a stock on band to please them. We would just name a few of the many articles kept here.
In the first place we will take Ribbons, being the first thing that takes your eye; it is one of the largest lines carried on in the State. Secondly -the stock of Millinery goods. A shape cannot be named but that the proprietor has secured it. Third-Corsets, embracing all styles and prices. Hosiery in every description, Underwear, Gloves, both fabric and kid, Buttons, etc. It would tire the reader to name the different articles kept here.
In conclusion we would say that prices are so low that people cannot fail to appreciate them. Go here for anything in the fancy goods line, you are sure to find it. Such a complete stock call- not be found in the State. The proprietor is HI. Krieger, Mahackemo Hotel Block, Main Street.
A. L. Duncan, Manufacturer of Fine Stiff Hats, Flexible Brims and Cassimeres; Factory, Union Street .- The City of South Norwalk has long been famous, not only for the quantity of the hats manufactured within her limits, but in quality as well, her pre eminence is established on a sure, enduring basis.
Of those engaged in this important industry here, A. L. Duncan occupies a prominent posi- tion, and his factory on Union Street is one of the most complete and extensive in the city.
The business was inaugurated by Mr. Duncan in 1884, and lias from its inception been carried on with consummate taet and ability and with consequent success.
The main factory is a large four-story brick building, 30x90 feet in dimensions, with two additional-one, 45x46, another, 60x22-equipped most thoroughly with the latest improved ma-
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chinery, driven by steam, and over 100 operatives are employed in the business.
The output comprises Stiff and Flexible Fur Hats of the finest quality, large quantities of which are daily turned out and find ready mar- kets in all parts of the country. For styles, finish and general excellence of his hats, Mr. Duncan is unsurpassed by any house in his line in New England, and the factory is a favorite source of supply for jobbers and dealers in all parts of the United States.
Mr. Duncan is a native of South Norwalk, and is a business man of sagacity and energy, and his worth, punctuality and honorable business methods have firmly established him in general confidence, and have developed a large and steadily growing trade.
First National Bank .- Under the provisions of the United States Banking Laws, the First National Bank of South Norwalk was organized . and began business in September, 1864.
The capital of the Bank is $200,000, with a surplus, exclusive of undivided profits of $24,000. The liberal methods and policy of the Bank, combined with prudence and ability of a high order begets the universal and unqualified confi dence of customers and makes it a valuable medium of exchange, deposit and discount, and the standing of the officers and directors, who are among the most prominent capitalists and snecessful manufacturers and merchants of Fair- field County, gives promise of a long continued career of usefulness.
The officers of the Bank at present writing are: President, Dudley P. Ely who has been presi- dent since April 25th, 1865; Cashier, J. J. Mil- lard, who has been cashier since the organization of the bank in September, 1864; Teller, C. E. Ferris, who has held the same position since 1865; Directors, Dudley P. Ely, E. K. Lockwood, Samuel Clark, Alfred E. Austin, Russell Frost, J. R. Jennings and Alphonso Dibble.
C. F. Boutwell, Dentist, Lander's New Block. -In the rapid improvements of the last quarter of a century, every branch of business has seemed to move forward, but none more so than the den- tal art, which now seems to be at its height, es- pecially as we view the appliances and improve- ments of our best dental rooms.
Mr. C. F. Boutwell whose parlors are located in Lander's New Block (up stairs) is among the leading gentlemen in this line, and no pains or money is spared to provide every modern inven- tion, and all branches of dentistry are conducted in an experienced manner.
The business was established here eighteen months ago by Mr. Boutwell, who has had a long experience, having been with his father, who is a dentist in Ansonia, for several years previous, alto- gether twelve years' experience. His prices are rea- sonable as possible for first-class work and, all in need of a reliable dentist will do well to give him a trial.
He is a native of Ansonia, Connecticut, and is a young man of ability and energy, fully under- standing his profession in all its branches and well deserving the success he has achieved and the patronage he has received.
Geo. Buckmaster & Co., Manufacturers of Bronze Hardware, Knobs, Locks, etc .- One of the most prominent as well as important manu- factories in South Norwalk is that conducted so ably by Messrs. Geo. Buckmaster & Co. This business was established in December, 1886, by Geo. Buckmaster, who conducted it until April 15th, 1887, when Mr. Chas. E. Woodward was admitted as partner, the firm name then being changed to Geo. Buckmaster & Co.
They occupy for business purposes four two- story buildings 100 feet square; these are fitted up with all the most modern machinery used in the manufacture of the goods. A thirty horse- power steam engine and boiler provide the mo- tive power, and sixty skilled hands are employed in the many departments
An exceedingly large and steadily increasing business is transacted and extends all over the the United States. The product of the factory embraces all kinds of Bronze Hardware, Knobs, Locks, etc., and these are sold to the trade on most reasonable terms.
Mr. Geo. Buckmaster is a native of Hempstead, L. I., and has resided in South Norwalk since 1886.
Mr. Chas. E. Woodward is a native of South Norwalk, and is the son of Mr. E. A. Wood- ward, a well-known citizen of South Norwalk. Both members of the firm are energetic and enterprising, and are well known and respected gentlemen. All having business dealings with them will meet with liberal treatment, and can- not fail but be satisfied, both as regards quality and price of goods purchased of them.
William K. McEwen, Fur IIat Manufacturer, Jobber and Retailer, and Dealer in Gents' Fur- nishing Goods .- The principles of the so-called " science of political economy " are evidently far from being established, if one may judge by the disputes among those who profess to be experts on the subject, but probably none would chal- lenge the statement that, other things being equal, it is more to the advantage of the con- sumer to purchase directly from the manufac- turer than it would be to transact business- through an agent or middleman.
This is evident for many reasons, chief among them being that at least one profit is saved and that the salesman cannot screen himself behind the plea of ignorance of the goods should they prove unsatisfactory.
This being generally understood, the pros- perity attending the enterprise of Mr. Wm. K. McEwen, the well-known Fur Hat Manufacturer and Dealer, requires no explanation. Business was begun by him in 1882, and a shop covering two floors and using ten horse-power is now occupied, and the services of fifteen skilled hands required.
A large business is done in the jobbing and retailing of Fine Fur Hats and a complete line- of fashionable Gents' Furnishings, in which goods an extensive retail trade is enjoyed, is also carried.
Mr MeEwen was born in Glasgow, Scotland, and by his enterprise, foresight and good man- agement has fairly won success.
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MONEY TO PAY LOSS - LES WITH
I POLICY
POLICY
POLICY
Walter L. Wilcox, Successor to Hon. W. S. Hanford, Insurance Agency; Office, Corner Washington and Main Streets .- Insurance, both Fire and Life, is one of the great interests of the age. In money, power and influence, it ranks with banking, railroading, mining and mercantile pursuits. The penniless and dependent are pro- tected through its blessed influence. All over the globe the protecting power of this science is felt.
The only question to be considered is: Which are the best conducted and safest companies in which to insure?
Mr. Walter L. Wilcox, at the corner of Washing- ton and Main streets, is regarded as a reliable gentleman, and represents the following well- known companies: American, of Philadelphia; In- surance Company of North America, Meriden, of
Meriden; Niagara, of New York; Ger- man American, of New York; Fireman's Friend, of California; Fire Insurance Association, of England; British Amer- ica, of Ontario; Commercial Union, of England; Hanover, of Springfield, and the Anglo-Nevada, of California.
Mr. Wilcox has been in the insurance business for the past ten years, having succeeded the Hon. W. S. Hanford three years ago.
He occupies two neat offices at the above location on the second floor, and has a large and extensive patronage. He is a native of Connecticut, and is a young man of energy and ability, and conducts his business on a high plane of business honor, hence has the confidence of the general public throughout the city. All wishing to place insurance in reliable companies should call upon Mr. Wilcox, and we feel assured that their confidence will not be misplaced.
Giles Haulenbeck, Manufacturer of Cigar Boxes, Foot of Marshal Street .- The industries of Norwalk are varied, and in our researches we find specialties that deserve proper mention. Among these we note the house of Giles Haulen- beck, Manufacturer of Cigar Boxes of all kinds and sizes.
The factory is located at the foot of Marshal street, South Norwalk, and comprises two floors 24x38 feet in dimen- sions. This is fitted up with all the most modern machines used in the manufacture of their goods, which are propelled by a gas engine of several horse-power.
Four skilled hands are employed in the different departments, and they turn out 2,500 boxes per week. The trade is mostly local and is very extensive, being entirely wholesale.
Mr. Haulenbeck established the busi- ness eleven years ago, and has conducted it on strictly business principles.
Mr. Giles Haulenbeck is a native of New Jersey, and is a thoroughly experi- eneed man in the business he has under- taken. He also enjoys as many facilities and as large resources for supplying the trade in this line of goods as any house in Norwalk.
Mr. Haulenbeck is noted for fairness in all business dealings, and will continue in the future as he has in the past to place his goods at the lowest market prices.
E. F. Knapp, Manufacturer of Hat and Hardware Cases .- Among the most enterprising and successful manufacturers of Norwalk, may he found Mr. E. F. Knapp, who carries on the manufacture of Hat and Hardware Cases.
Business was inaugurated in 1881, under the firm name of Fitch & Knapp, and was continued under that style up to April 29, 1886, at which time it became as it is at present.
The factory comprises two floors, each of the dimensions 60×52 feet, and both a wholesale and retail business is done, employment being given
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to ten men. The capacity of the works is from 350 to 400 cases per day, and as the products of this house have met with great favor among those interested, the maximum output named is frequently reached. All orders will receive prompt and painstaking attention, aud the goods are fully warranted to give the best of satisfac tion.
Mr. Knapp is a native of South Norwalk, and is well known and highly esteemed here for his many excellent qualities.
J. R. Raymond, Contractor and Builder .- As one of the oldest and most successful Contractors and Builders in South Norwalk, Mr. J. R. Ray- mond has taken prominent part in the extensive building operations in this city during the past quarter of a century.
He established himself in business here over twenty five years ago, and in most of the work in his line his services have been called into requisi- tion.
He occupies commodious workshops on Water street, and his establishment is supplied with wood-working machinery of improved patterns, driven by steam, and a force of twenty-five skill- ed workmen are employed by him during the busy season.
Mr. Raymond furnishes plans and specifica- tions and gives estimates for all kinds of building work, and contracts are performed in the most satisfactory manner; orders for jobbing are filled with despatch. Mr. Raymond has a great variety of plans for buildings on hand, and furnishes Frames, Doors, Sash, etc., for builders' uses, and his worth and ability justify the fullest confi- dence.
Ife is a native of Connecticut, and in a wide circle of acquaintance he is held in highest esteem for his personal and business integrity.
South Norwalk Hat Company, Co-operative Manufacturers of Fine Wine and Water Stiff and Flexible Hats, of all Descriptions; Factory, South Norwalk; New York Office, 124 Greene Street .- This successful company, largely com- posed of practical hatters, was organized and incorporated about three years ago, and on a scale of most important proportions the busi- ness has since been conducted with marked suc- cess.
The works of the company are eligibly located and comprise a two-story building 30x90 feet in dimensions, and the factory is admirably equipped. Over 100 workmen find constant employment in the service of this reliable com- pany.
The output comprises fine Wine and Water Stiff and Flexible Hats of all descriptions, in latest styles and finest finish, and the facilities of the corporation for filling orders with dispatch at lowest possible margin above cost of produc- tion, are unsurpassed, if equaled, by any other house in their field of industrial enterprise.
Mr. E. H. Bush is the President, and Mr. Jno. J. Murphy is the efficient Secretary of this com- pany, and under their able management and direction the interests of the corporation their customers and correspondents are in every way advanced.
The Old Well Cigar Co., Manufacturers of Celebrated Brands of Cigars, Main Street .- Among the large contributors to the great ag- gregate of South Norwalk's trade, The Old Well Cigar Company, established in 1868 and incor- porated in 1880, has held a foremost place, and in the esteem of the trade it is one of the most reliable sources of supply in New England. The Company occupy a large three-story building on Main street, fully equipped for their purposes. Their yearly sales average three million cigars, being the largest cigar factory in the State, if not in New England.
The company are the manufacturers of the following popular brands, famous throughout the State for their general excellence and flavor: Old Well Club, R. H. 10, Gander Club, La Cuba, C. S. 10, Old Well Bouquets, Stubs, United Ser- vice Club, Snow Drop, Maud S., La Empress, Patriots, Growler, R. H. 5, Monarch, Snow Flake, Old Well Five, Real Comfort, Druggist's Pride and Old Well Club Ponies, all of which are celebrated as the best cigars, at prices asked, manufactured in thissection. The facilities of the company for supplying seasoned goods of sterling. quality at low prices, makes this a popular con- cern with which to place orders, and the care ex- ercised to maintain the reputation of these cigars by careful selection of stock and personal super- vision of every detail of the work, has firmly es- tablished the company in the confidence of job- bers and dealers in all parts of the country.
The officers of the company are: President, Reed Haviland; Secretary and Treasurer Chris- tian Swartz; Superintendent, Mathew Corbett, all of whom are energetic, sagacious and respon- siable business man, whose skill and ability have brought to the company its present success.
Martin Bates, Jr., & Co., Importers and Cutters of Hatters' Fur, South Norwalk .- The great importance and extent of the hat business in this country is probably appreciated more by the residents of Norwalk than it is by the inhab- itants of many other sections of the United States, for there are located here a number of very large. factories, more or less directly connected with the manufacture of hats. Prominent among. them is that conducted by Martin Bates, Jr. &. Co., this being a branch of a metropolitan house whose main office is located at Nos. 80 and 82. Greene street, New York.
The branch of which we are writing was founded in January, 1880, and occupies one large building containing three floors, each 175x 32 feet in dimensions, as well as several smaller structures.
The works are supplied with a fifty horse- power boiler and engine, and employment is given to some eighty hands. The firm are Im- porters and Cutters of Hatters' Fur, and do an enormous business, standing, in fact, in the very front rank of those engaged in a similar line of trade.
Such of our readers as are familiar with the " Hatter and Furrier," will doubtless remember the very full history of Martin Bates and his. business given in the issue of that paper for January, 1883, and we only regret that space does not permit us to copy even a few of its most salient points into our present article.
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF STAMFORD.
Rippowams was the picturesque designation by which Stamford was known to the Indians. They were members of the tribe of Paugausetts, who were the natural owners of the soil of all this part of the State. Of their customs and life it is sufficient to say that they were "Indians" of the laziest and most inoffensive class.
They were surprised during the fall of 1640 by the entrance into their harbor of a party of white men, probably the first that most of them had ever seen. The leader of the whites was Captain Nathaniel Turner, the military commander of the New Haven Colony, and their agent in the purchase of territory, who immediately opened negotiations with the Stamford Indians for their land. They finally disposed of it, keeping only a small reservation for themselves, for "twelve coats, twelve hoes, twelve hatchets, twelve knives, two kettles, and four fathoms of white wampum."
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