USA > Indiana > Marshall County > History of Indiana : containing a history of Indiana and biographical sketches of governors and other leading men. Also a statement of the growth and prosperity of Marshall County, together with a personal and family histry of many of its citizens, Vol. II > Part 24
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We think we have said enough concerning the early business men of Argos, as the work of following each one in and out during the development of the past quarter of a century would be an almost endless one. There are doubtless many who will feel aggrieved because their names, or the names of some of their progenitors, are not mentioned in these pages, but we assure them no slight is intended -time and space positively forbid. The first adult settlers of this locality have rested from their labors, though many of their children are still with us and seem to enjoy relating their experience of life in the log cabin, with the attendant labor and deprivation, and all that a life in the wilderness implied. They love to dwell on the sociability and neighborly feeling of those primitive days, and we are sometimes envious of their joy of memory.
Railroads .- But we must now speak of more recent years and the agencies most prominent in the development of the county. Physical strength and courage, the axe, maul and wedge, farm- ing implements, etc., were the first essential agents, but after a time other agencies must be secured that would be still more potent in the work of material development. The first boom given the village was in 1865, when there seemed to be a fair prospect of the "Pewee" line (as the railroad from Plymouth to La Porte was familiarly known) being extended from Plymouth to Peru. Considerable grading was done, and many ties distrib- uted along the line, but the work suddenly ceased. A man named Knoxson, of New York (long since dead), was at the head of the company (perhaps the sole member), but, though he was an ex- cellent business man, and commanded at one time considerable capital, habits of dissipation rendered him unreliable. The brief boom, however, appreciated property and added to the popula- tion and business of the town. In the fall of 1867 the railroad enterprise was revived. Knoxson at this time being unable to build the road, was anxious to dispose of it, and a company con- sisting of Rogers, Courter and Herrick agreed to build and stock the road if the citizens along the line contributed what they re- garded as the necessary assistance. (This was before the time
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MARSHALL COUNTY.
of voting a tax, in aid of railroad construction.) It is unneces- sary to state that, in the anxiety for a railroad, the required aid was forthcoming. The work progressed without interruption, and in the fall of 1868 the cars were run as far south as Argos. When the construction train reached the northern boundary of the town the scream of the engine set the people wild, and a half dozen jolly fellows took the lead in making arrangements to treat the entire company of workmen, which was done in fine style. A few months later the road was completed to Peru, and to say that the Argosites 'were happy is putting it mildly. A petition was sent to the postoffice department praying for the abandon- ment of the old postal service from Logansport to Plymouth (tri-weekly), and the establishment of a daily mail via the rail- road. The prayer was answered at once and the citizens of Argos and vicinity assumed metropolitan airs. Many new build- ings were erected, business flourished and every Argosite had a tear of sympathy and a word of commiseration for the people of a town that could not boast of a railroad. Merrill Williams & Son erected an elevator at once, and Argos became a grain mar- ket, though before this the flouring mill, with an extensive trade in both Marshall and Fulton counties, consumed considerable grain. But now there was a market for every bushel, and at as good prices as when it had to be hauled several miles in wagons. We had railroad transportation for the surplus products of all kinds, and, though the rate was exorbitant, the improvement upon the primitive system made both the farmer and merchant happy. The village advanced by healthy and permanent additions, to a population of 622 in 18So; but, while one railroad, which charged a passenger rate of 5 cents per mile and an equally extortionate freight rate, was a grand convenience and an incalculable improvement over the old re- gime, merchants and business men generally, as well as farmers, of the surrounding country felt the necessity of railroad compe- tition in order to successfully compete with some of the surround- ing towns. In 1881 the prospect of an east and west trunk line suddenly dawned upon us. There had been railroad talk for some time, but as-in the east, at least - much time was usualiy consumed before real work began, we gave little heed to the talk. Soon, however, the evidence was conclusive that the road would be built at once, and that, unless we bestirred ourselves, the line would be established about four and one-half miles south of Argos. Then the latent energy of our people was developed into wondrous activity. A meeting of citizens was called- every one being painfully earnest in his words and promises- and a competent committee was sent to Chicago at once to con- fer with the proper officials and secure a preliminary survey. In three days the surveyors were here - all expenses paid by the
224
HISTORY OF INDIANA.
Argosonians - and a simple inspection of the route convinced them that the road could be built much cheaper by the way of Argos, as well as of the fact that the line would pass through a much more desirable country. Railroad meetings were held every few evenings, excitement ran high, the required aid was promptly subscribed, the dirt soon began to fly and Argos was happy in the assurance of the Nickel Plate road. The town boomed in earnest. New enterprises were projected and ex- isting ones were stimulated and enlarged, property values appre- ciated and since the completion of the road - eight years ago - Argos has been regarded as one of the best trading points in northern Indiana. Since then the population has increased eighty per cent .- an increase equaled by few towns in the state outside the gas belt. We now have, by reason of competition, reasonable freight rates, and farmers find in Argos as good a market for their products and can buy goods as low as in any town in the state. The railroads give employment here to quite a company of men. Argos is the headquarters of four sections - two on each road - and many are employed at this work. At the stations, coaling dock and in various capacities the companies employ many more, and thus every month these two "soulless " corporations leave a snug sum of money in Argos which goes into the hands of butchers, grocers and other dealers. Argos has two wagon and carriage manufactories -one of which is quite ex- tensive-and the Argos wagon has a first-class reputation in this and adjoining counties. These shops, together with our flouring, planing and saw-mills, give employment to another small army of skilled and unskilled men, so that it may be truly said that Argos furnishes steady employment to as many men as almost any town of the same population. Then during the spring, summer and fall months, there is almost constant building and repairing going on, giving employment to carpenters, masons, plasterers and common laborers. We have no large manufacturing establishments, but, talk as we may, it is the country around and the patronage of the farming commun . ity that give stability and permanency to a town. The better the farming lands and the greater the extent of territory com- manded, the better will be the town. Many of the employes of manufactories are men who have to be constantly watched by business men in order to avoid losses, and often the closest vigi- lance is not sufficient to protect the butcher, grocer and board- ing house keeper. These employes, as a rule, are transient. They are liable to be discharged, or they tire of one location and want a change, or, finally, their employers may suddenly collapse, and therefore the business men who carry them from pay day to pay day are constantly exposed to financial loss. Not so with the farming community. They are permanent citizens, and backed
225
MARSHALL COUNTY.
by lands, produce and stock of various kinds. They are also backed, usually, by a stock of integrity. Argos is located in one of the finest agricultural districts in the state. It would be diffi- cult to find anywhere in the world a richer soil, one so well adapted to the most necessary and valuable productions, and one so little damaged by wet or drought. A total failure in any of the leading crops is never anticipated. In the last twenty-five years there has been one corn failure, and only one. This was in 1869-known as the wet season. It rained almost continu- ously during the corn working season, yet those who, regardless of health or comfort, plowed through mud and water, raised good corn. The production, however, was not sufficient to sup- ply the home demand. Where is there a section of country with a better record? The yield in corn or wheat is not of course uniform, but it is seldom indeed that the crop of these two im- portant cereals is not good. As a result our farmers are in good financial condition. Their farms are in first class shape; they are provided with the latest improved agricultural implements; they have good houses and barns, and a majority of them have a respectable surplus to carry them through such adverse condi- tions as might arise. Argos commands the trade of a territory from twelve to fifteen miles square, a territory much larger than that commanded by any other town in the county, and this is a sufficient explanation of her growth and business prosper- ity. In this territory there is little waste land, in the way of marshes and ponds. What marshes did exist have been reclaimed, and the whole territory may be regarded as one grand, productive field. New lines of railroad frequently damage a town instead of improving it, and increasing its business. New trading points spring up and thus the territory is divided. This has been the case with some of our sister towns, and a pall has been spread over their former business energy and activity. Argos was an exception in the case of the " Nickel Plate " line. Instead of a division of terri- tory more was added, an importance was given the town (as well as advantages), and every business enterprise leaped into wondrous activity. We were fortunately situated. Now that we have an east and west trunk line, and a line from Lake Michi- igan to the capital, we are not troubling ourselves about new railroads. Unless a road would bring something more than a line of transportation it is probable that a majority of our people would oppose its construction. A railroad may be a rock that will split a town in twain, especially when there are already enough to get the advantages of competition. A word more concerning the territory commanded by Argos. No finer agri- cultural lands can be found within the limits of our government, and this year, while the wheat crop in this and many other states 15-B.
226
HISTORY OF INDIANA.
is far below the average, in this locality the yield is a full aver- age. The land north, south, and east of Argos, or the greater portion of it, is known as walnut land -the best there is. Much of this now valuable timber was reduced to ashes by the early settlers, as there was then, of course, no market for it. The quantity and immense growth of this wood suggested the name given the township. The stranger who is given a carriage ride through this locality never fails to remark, "what a beautiful country." As gold is purified by fire so by the same agency towns and cities are often improved. Argos, unfortunately, was not visited by a necessary conflagration until January, 1887, when a row of unsightly buildings on the west side of South Michigan street, comprising eleven business rooms, went up in smoke. The roofs were covered by about fifteen inches of snow, therefore the fire progressed so slowly that nearly all the goods were safely removed. The principal part of the goods being saved renters lost but little, while those who owned their rooms lost nothing, the naked lots being worth more the morning after the fire than on the evening before. The town trustees at once passed an or- dinance prohibiting the erection of wooden buildings within.cer- tain prescribed limits, and this act was an inspiration to the owners of the lots. Building soon began, and last fall the opera block closed the last gap in the burnt district. Now a handsome and substantial row of brick buildings occupies the site of the primitive fire traps, and now the citizen is not ashamed to pilot the stranger through the buildings that were borne to us on the wings of fire.
Churches .- Argos, like other towns, has her churches. The Methodist, Adventists and Christians, have substantial edifices in which to worship, the Christian church is a brick structure. These denominations seem to be harmonious and prosperous, even in the judgment of an agnostic. There are very many members of other denominations, but they are content, for the present, at least, to worship with those who have tabernacles. The morals of the town will compare favorably with other towns of equal size. We have some toughs, we have not the conscience to deny it, yet, when any disorder occurs, we note that the leading spirits come from without the town.
Secret Societies .- First in order, because the oldest in the his- tory of secret benevolent organizations which still have an ex- istence, is the Masonic. The lodge was instituted about twenty- one years ago, and its members have been extremely careful about receiving applicants-good material only, being accepted. As a consequence, the lofty character of Masonry has been main- tained, and its present membership numbering about forty, in- cludes the most prominent men of the town and vicinity. Another fact must not be omitted-Argos lodge, No. 399,
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MARSHALL COUNTY.
F. & A. M., is regarded as having some of the best, most correct, most impressive workmen to be found anywhere in the state. This is a reputation of which the members have a reason to feel proud.
The Argos lodge, of I. O. O. F., is perhaps twenty-three years old. For some reason, unknown to the writer, many of the older members have " dropped out," but their places are usually supplied by new ones, and the lodge seems to be harmonious and pros- perous. The membership numbers about thirty-five.
A lodge of K. P's was organized here, but little more than a year ago, but they have been decidedly prosperous, having now a membership of about forty-six, from which they have organ- ized a drill corps of twenty. A post of the G. A. R. was organ- ized here several years since, and at one time, eighty or more old soldiers were enrolled, but we are told that the organization now numbers only about forty-five - a considerable number having been "dropped " for non-payment of dues. When something oc- curs to excite new interest, it is probable that the old veterans will return. It would seem that the G. A. R. is no exception to organizations, generally, notwithstanding the fact that they stood elbow to elbow on the field of slaughter, more or less jealousy sometimes destroys that harmony and unity which should exist among old comrades.
A camp of Sons of Veterans was organized in January, 1889, and now numbers twenty-seven members. As the character and purposes of these orders are known to the general reader, we content ourselves at this time with this brief statement of facts and figures.
Schools .- We are proud of the Argos schools, from the high school department of which are annually sent out as bright young scholars as from any school of equal grade in the state. Unfortunately the capacity of our school building is insufficient. There are but five apartments where there should be at least seven. The first and second primary rooms are so densely crowded as to render them decidedly uncomfortable to both teachers and pupils. Nearly 190 are enrolled in these two rooms, and, though they are provided with the best of teachers, it is im- possible for them, work as hard as they may, to do perfect work. More school room must be provided, and this is the subject that is now being agitated. Unfortunately it cannot now be done by taxation, as we have been taxed so much for unnecessary things that a sufficient levy would exceed the limit prescribed by law. We think the present school-house, which is a brick structure, can be enlarged by an addition at small cost; but, as it is the old " union" style of building, no addition can harmonize its propor- tions or enhance its architectural beauty. But it would accommo- date the children, and this is the first object in view.
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HISTORY OF INDIANA.
Having briefly referred to our churches and schools we will now turn our attention to the business enterprises of the town. We will only notice particularly those branches of business requiring considerable capital, as we have not the time to par- ticularize the many kinds of trade and business which, though equally important, require but little means. We have already spoken of our wagon and carriage shops, and shall not refer to them again. The Argos flouring mill (full roller) is regarded as one of the best in the whole country, being patronized by farmers living much nearer other mills. We have not inquired into the amount of business annually done, but it is usually evi- dence of some repair going on if the smoke is not issuing from the smoke stack. Argos has quite an extensive lumber yard, at which can be bought all kinds of lumber and materials of wood used in building, while a first-class saw-mill near by is kept run- ning almost constantly in converting the native woods into lumber.
The following is a list of our business houses: Five dry goods, one ready made clothing and furnishing goods, two hardwares, equal to any in northern Indiana, four groceries and provisions, two of which run delivery wagons, five other places where gro- ceries are sold, one harness and boots and shoes, five other places where boots and shoes are sold, two drug stores, one jewelry, splendid stock and excellent workmanship, one furniture and undertaking, three restaurants, two meat markets, three millin- eries, half dozen dress making, two tailoring, etc., three saloons and billiard halls, two liveries, and, that our financial affairs may be conducted on modern principles, one good, substantial bank, organized under the laws of the state, with a capital of $50,000. Barbers, blacksmiths, shoemakers, etc., have not been listed, but we trust none will take offense at the omission. Of the estab- lishments enumerated, five do an annual business of $25,000 each, while the other houses do each a business of from $2,000 to $15,000. In the above we do not include dressmaking and simi- lar establishments. The freight reports of the railroads of a town (where there are no waterways) indicate, in a great meas- ure, the volume of its business, therefore we submit the follow- ing tables showing the business for last year:
L. E. & W.
Originating at and forwarded from Ar- gos - principally wheat and lumber .... 7,985,500 lbs. Received at Argos and used and consumed by the people of this locality. . .
2,693,500 lbs. Received from N. Y. C. & St. L., for trans- fer 7,305,000 lbs.
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MARSHALL COUNTY.
N. Y. C. & ST. L.
Sent from Argos:
Flour.
275,000 lbs.
Mill feed
I 30,000 lbs.
Hay
200,000 lbs.
Cattle
1,500,000 lbs.
Hogs
480,000 lbs.
Sheep
210,000 lbs.
Lumber
I44,000 lbs.
Forest products
312,000 lbs.
Lime and cement
40,000 lbs.
Salt
80,000 lbs.
Merchandise.
1 5,000 lbs.
Oils. (The Standard Oil Co. has a deposi- tory here.) .
I 20,000 lbs.
Hides
32,000 lbs.
Manufactured articles
36,000 lbs.
Received at Argos:
.
Not classified (used and consumed by our people)
45,368,556 lbs.
Received for transfer:
Packing house products 483,000 lbs.
Sheep
357,000 lbs.
Hogs.
432,000 lbs.
Lumber
550,000 lbs.
Lime and cement
336,000 lbs.
Manufactured articles
18,000 lbs.
Liquors
8,450 lbs.
Miscellaneous
24,000 lbs.
The following tables will show the business done here by the two express companies last year:
U. S. COMPANY.
Sent out:
Money
$4,656 28,752 lbs.
Freight
Received:
$20,000 25,608 lbs.
AMERICAN COMPANY.
Sent out:
Money Freight
$3,295 47,700 lbs.
Received:
Money .
Freight
$1,304
29,712 lbs.
Money
Freight
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HISTORY OF INDIANA.
We regard the above as a respectable exhibit, but we must remember that much that is consumed in country towns is not brought in railroad cars, but in wagons, or driven in, by the peo- ple of the surrounding country. Here the greater part of our subsistence is the product of our own locality, as flour, beef, pork, corn meal, potatoes (Irish and sweet), beans and most vegeta- bles, chickens, eggs, butter, and many kinds of fruit, etc., etc., and this fact must be borne in mind in making comparative esti- mates of the business of different localities.
We have three hotels, one of which - the Argos house -has been open for several years, and under the proprietorship of the genial Al Ford it is a haven of rest and refreshment for the weary traveler. The "Nickel Plate" eating house, which feeds all the trains running east and west, is a busy place, both day and night.
As a town of the importance of Argos must have some means of conveying to the public and to our neighbors the general news, aud matters of business and local interest, we have a newspaper- the Argos Reflector-edited and published by J. H. Watson, Esq. And we desire to say right here that we have the neatest, clean- est, best edited newspaper published in the state. Nothing of a low or scandalous character is ever seen in its columns. That which the public should know is published, while that which would debase instead of elevate the thought of the reader is barred from its columns. We wish we could say as much of all the newspapers published in our sister towns.
We must not forget to speak of our planing-mill, or " factory," as it is called. It is provided with machinery to make the rough lumber ready for the carpenter's use - sawing, planing, match- ing, etc., etc. The proprietor informs us that, in addition to the general work, arrangements have been made for the special manufacture of ladders, door and window frames, barn blinds, brackets of all kinds, and all sorts of turned work. A good busi- ness is anticipated.
The elevator on the L. E. & W. road was owned and oper- ated for several years by H. G. Thayer, of Plymouth, but re- cently it fell into the hands of William Alleman and John Cavender, who are operating it now. But Argos was too good a point for the purchase of grain to be abandoned, and therefore H. G. Thayer & Son established headquarters for the buying and handling of grain on the "Nickel Plate" road. The farmers re- gard this competition as favorable to them, and expect to receive, as they surely will, the very highest market price for their grain. The result will be an extension of grain territory commanded by Argos. We are just informed that Thayer & Son will build an elevator on the L. E. & W. road, close to the old one, and that work in that direction has already begun. We have satis- fied ourselves that this is correct. (Since writing the above
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MARSHALL COUNTY.
H. G. Thayer & Son have purchased their old elevator of Alle- man & Cavender, and will use the building just erected for the storage of corn, oats, clover seed, etc. Another company, headed by Slayton & Hess, is buying on the "Nickel Plate," and the competition is strong and active. Wheat is coming in rapidly, and from points outside the former lines of trade. The buyers and helpers at both points are kept busy until late at night, and the aggregate amount of grain received will far exceed that of any previous year.)
Having thus briefly referred to and described the principal business interests of the town, we will now speak a word of the professions. There are three resident clergy, two males and one female, and an indefinite number of visiting ones. Those resid- ing here are in intellectual ability and earnestness of work, fully up to the average of country towns, even towns larger than Argos. The purity of their lives and intentions cannot be questioned.
There are five practicing physicians here, some of whom have more than a local reputation. Whatever form of disease may attack our people, whatever accident may occur, whatever surgi- cal operation is demanded, there is no necessity of calling foreign aid. It would not be wise to particularize, we will leave that matter with the public. Since the introduction of driven wells, and since the lower lands have been thoroughly drained, this has been an exceptionally healthy locality, yet those doctors succeed in making a comfortable living, and two or three of them com- mand a considerable amount of money or its equivalent.
As this is not the county capital it is not to be presumed that we have any prominent Blackstonian in our midst, and we will not speak of that "innumerable throng" that professes a knowl- edge of law.
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