Union, past and present. An illustrated history of the town, Maine, from earliest times to date, Part 3

Author:
Publication date: 1895
Publisher: Union, Me., The Union weekly times
Number of Pages: 214


USA > Maine > Knox County > Union > Union, past and present. An illustrated history of the town, Maine, from earliest times to date > Part 3


Note: The text from this book was generated using artificial intelligence so there may be some errors. The full pages can be found on Archive.org (link on the Part 1 page).


Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4


Edwin L. Robbins


Gilbert B. Thompson


Story Thompson


This includes all who went on different quotas from Union not volunteers previous to that date.


The soldier's monument, that now occupies so prominent a position on Union Common, is conceded to be the result of efforts of Cooper Post, G. A. R., and the property of the town. The following comrades, HI. A. Hawes, L. Norwood, and C. R. Dunton were the committee to solicit and receive contributions, also to receive bids from monument firms. In March, 1886, an appropriation by the town of $490 toward the monument gave renewed courage and determination. Con- tributions were coming in from 10 cents to $50 and promises in like amounts after a monument was erected. The con- tract was given Mr. James Dornan, East Union. It was com- pleted and dedicated and presented to the town July 4, 1888.


Comrade Hawes being an old resident of Union and chair- man of the committee, was most indefatigable in his efforts for the monument. The result is a monument beautiful and artistic in design, at a cost, including foundation and grading, of $1500.


Cooper Relief Corps, organized May 7, 1885, has been an efficient auxiliary to the Post and assisted largely in building up the monument fund. Starting in with 21 charter members, composed only of veterans' mothers, wives, sisters and daugh- ters, its membership at present date is about 60, and it is con- sidered one of the best Relief Corps in the state.


£


31


CHAPTER X.


THE GEORGES VALLEY RAILROAD --- AGITATION -- TOWN MEET- INGS-STOCK-CONTRACTOR -- CELEBRATION- PRESENT OFFICERS.


[NION commenced the agitation of the building of the Georges Valley Railroad in 1887 by holding meetings in the various school-houses about town. October 2, 1888, ten citizens petitioned the selectmen to call a meeting of the legal voters of the town on the 17th of October, 1888, to see what sum and by what method, the town would raise money for the building of the railroad. At the meeting the town voted to raise five per cent of its valuation which at the time was thought to mean state valuation, but it was afterwards learned that the town's valuation should have been used which would make the amount so raised only $18, 000.


June 8, 1889, in town meeting assembled, all former votes regarding raising money for the railroad was rescinded and the valuation for 1889 being increased to $490,000, five per cent of the legal amount was voted, the same to be raised by issue of town bonds, interest not to exceed five per cent. Under this law the amount of stock subscribed for by the town was $24,500. Rockland and Warren Lime Co. took $8,000 and private subscriptions $8, 400, making the total amount $40, 900.


The directors contracted with James Mitchell, August 19, 1892, for the building and equipping of the Georges Valley Railroad from a junction of the Maine Central at Warren to


46


Union Common. Work was commenced in the autumn of 1892. The work was completed and inspected by the rail- road commissioners, November 14, 1893. These officials made a most favorable report.


November 15th a grand citizens' celebration was held all day and evening. Freight and passenger trains commenced running regular December 1, 1893. The first year's business, in spite of the financial depression which extended over the country, was very satisfactory, while the future outlook is full of promise. Officers of the road are: W. W. Case of Rockland, president, secretary and treasurer ; James Mitchell, general manager. Directors: W. W. Case, W. T. Cobb, A. F. Crockett, Sidney M. Bird, James Mitchell, Fred A. Alden and I. C. Thurston.


Union Wants


U9 ITH superior water privileges and railroad facilities the town of Union offers excellent advantages for manu- facturers and capitalists. We need such factories as boots and shoes, sash and blinds, clothing, machine shops, foundries, furniture, pianos and organs, metal works, buttons, carpet mills, hats, straw goods, car-shops, woodenware, boiler works, stoves, gloves, tools, hosiery, silk mills, toys, agricultural implements and many others. The Union Board of Trade · solicits correspondence and will cheerfully give information.


1894 was a prosperous year for the town of Union. Many new buildings were erected in various parts of the place, and 1895 promises to surpass any year in our history. We don't want any quick boom but favor a gradual, healthy growth, which will surely come in the near future.


Carl W. Thurston, whose portrait is given herewith, was born in Union, Nov. 23, 1863. He is the son of Nathaniel E. and Sarah (Hills) Thurston. Carl W. Thurston owns a fine farm of 67 acres, and is one of the enterprising farmers of his native town. He is also engaged as a dealer in flour, corn and mill feed, and has built up a fine trade in that line. December 21, 1893, married Miss Josie D. Andrews of Washington. Mr. Thurston is a prominent member of Seven Tree Grange and has always been interested in the work of that organization.


N


1


PURE DRUGS.


J. H. WIGGIN,


APOTHECARY,


418 Main Street, - Rockland, Maine.


Largest Variety of


Perfumes, Toilet Articles -AND-


FANCY GOODS


In the city.


Full Line of


*


Lowney's Fine


Cigars and Tobacco.


Chocolate Bon-Bons.


PATENT MEDICINES.


MIDDIW M


CHI. Photoll ENGy. COM


Frank Pullen, an excellent likeness of whom is here given, was born in Patten, Maine, April 10, 1847. Moved to Bangor when quite young and was educated in the schools of that city and at East Corinth Academy and at Carlisle (Pa.) College. At the age of 16 enlisted in the 4th N. H. Infantry and served one year and seven months. He came to Union in 1881 and engaged in farming. He is a member of Union Lodge, No. 35, F. and A. M .; also of Borneman Post, No. 79, G. A. R., of Washington. Mr. Pullen has travelled extensively in foreign lands as well as in his native country. He possesses a fine collection of ancient and modern coins and relics, valued at several thousand dollars.


51


A MONG those that have always been identified with the pros- perity of Union may be mentioned the old established and ever reliable N. A. & S. H. Burpee Furniture Co. of Rock- land. Looking back over a period of many years the people of this town can remember a business career characterized by all that is honorable and just in every transaction. They have built up a large trade in this vicinity and point with pride to their many friends in Union. A few years since a large new warehouse was erected by them, which, in addition to their old quarters, enables the firm to always have a mammoth stock on hand of not only Medium Priced Furniture, but all of the New and Modern Ideas in their line.


Among the various lines carried may be seen Ladies' Dressing Cases, Rattan Tea Tables, Pedestals, Music Racks, Cheffoniers, Reception Chairs, Fancy Chairs, Ottomans, Screens, Easels, Brack- ets, White Iron Bedsteads, Ladies' Desks, Parlor Desks, Davenports, Roller Desks, Office Desks, Revolving Chairs, Library Chairs, Sideboards, Extension Tables, Office. Tables, Hall Stands, Ward- robes, Library Tables, Mantle Beds, Wood Baskets, Bed Lounges, Antique Chairs, Onyx Tables, Couches, Rattan Chairs, Hall Stands, China Closets, Center Tables, Comforters, Pillows, Hair, Wool and Excelsior Mattresses, Spring Beds, Cot Beds, Kitchen Tables.


Goods marked in plain- figures. Rooms heated by steam. Elevator in main building, so visitors can be comfortable and in- spect at their leisure.


All the foregoing and numerous other lines always in stock at the well known house of the N. A. & S. H. BURPEE FURNI- TURE CO., Rockland, Maine.


E. H. Burkett, was born in Union, July 24, 1848. Mar- ried Miss Inez E. Fish of South Hope, September 29, 1873. They have had two children : Annie L., and Lulie M. In early life Mr. Burkett commenced his career as a teamster, increasing the business from year to year, now employing a dozen or more horses in the business. Is a wholesale dealer in lime-casks, and also handles a general line of flour, grain, · mill feed, lime and coal. Owns a fine farm of 30 acres near the Common. He has been very successful.


Mr. Burkett is a member of Union Lodge, No. 35, I. O. O. F .; also a member of Mt. Horeb Encampment, No. 34, and has always been interested in the work of these organizations. Has been manager of the new Town Hall since it was re-built about five years ago; has held office of Town Treasurer two years; was director of the G. V.R.R. from its first organization until November 1893, when control of the road passed from Union stockholders. He is»a director of the Union Farmers' Fire Insurance Company ; was Deputy Sheriff of Knox County six years, his last term expiring Dec. 31, 1894.


MILLINERY


ROBBINS BLOCK.


53


OR a number of years our people have made Rockland their principal shopping place, and perhaps we should, in these pages, call the attention of our readers to E. B. Hastings, the well known Dry Goods Merchant of that city. Mr. Hastings has for years had a very large trade from Union and sur- rounding towns, which he has built up and maintained by giving the best of goods at Lowest Prices. In every way satisfaction is given all who trade at this popular store. He carries a very large stock of goods and employs courteous lady clerks, who are always willing to show customers anything desired, and quote prices with pleasure. Mr. Hastings has been in trade many years and is noted for his fair dealings with all. His large store on Main Street is completely stocked with Dry and Fancy Goods, in addition to thou- sands of Small Articles too numerous to mention here.


A visit to the large Dry Goods House of E. B. Hastings, Rockland, is an event long to be remembered by all. Special in- ducements given to customers from Union and surrounding towns, who are cordially invited to call at any and all times.


Herbert A. Hawes was born April 28, 1839. Married Joanna Creighton in 1869 for first wife, who died some time later. For his second wife he married Ermina A. Gushee of Thomaston, June 5, 1877. Mr. Ilawes enlisted in the Maine Coast Guards in February, 1864, remaining until the close of the Rebellion. Is a member of Cooper Post, No. 124, G. A. R., of Union, also belongs to Union Lodge, F. & A. M. Has been supervisor of schools. Has two children, George C., born March, 1873, Phebe R., born July 31, 1892. Mr. Hawes owns a fine farm of 166 acres about a mile from the Common on the shore of Seven Tree pond. This property was first settled by Moses Hawes over 100 years ago; then by Wm. S. Hawes; then descending to Herbert A. Hawes. The farm cuts about 75 tons of hay annually, and there are about 300 apple trees on the place. Mr. Hawes' farm is beautifully located, and the buildings on the place are all in excellent condition.


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55


W HO of our readers does not remember the pleasant face and genial manners of the late Albert Smith, of Rockland? He was known all over Maine as a dealer in Pianos and Organs, and built up a reputation for honesty and fair deal- ing that any man might be proud of. The Smith Music Store is now occupied by the well known firm of CRESSEY, JONES & ALLEN of Portland, with E. L. Staples, Esq., as Manager. They took the store in December, 1894, and after fitting it up in first class style, placed therein a large and complete stock of Pianos and Organs of such well known makes as the following : Blasius & Sons, Kranich & Bach, Decker Bros., Trowbridge, Ivers & Pond, Jacob Bros., Dyer & Hughes Pianos, and Mason & Hamlin, Pack- ard and Bridgeport Organs.


They sell for Cash or Installments, and also take Old Instru- ments in exchange. Tuning and Repairing a specialty. When in want of a Piano or Organ, by all means call on MR. E. L. STAPLES, or send for catalogue.


TON


-


ENG. CO.


George W. Payson was born Feb. 12, 1828, he being the third of five sons of the late John Payson. He worked on his father's farm till he attained his majority, attending in the meantime the town and high schools. At the age of 21, began teaching school winter seasons, laboring on the farm in summer. Jan. 1, 1854, married Mary J. Barlow of Appleton. In 1855 purchased the farm now owned and occupied by J. G. Mank. Lived on that place nine years, but followed teaching winter seasons; altogether nearly a score of terms. Sold the farm and bought the place where he now resides, at East Union, formerly known as the Milton Daniels farm, containing one hundred acres, about one-third each of tillage, pasture and woodland. Of a family of six children, all of which arrived at maturity, only three are now living, viz. : May F., wife of Randall Robbins; A. W. Payson, of the firm of Payson & Robbins, merchants, East Union ; and E. C. Payson, of the law firm of Walker & Payson, Rockland. Mr. Payson has filled many important places of trust in town, being a member of the Board Selectmen and Assessors of Union six years. He has been for many years a member of Union Lodge, I. O. O. F., also serving two terms as Master of Pioneer Grange P. of H.


1


O. E. BLACKINGTON,


. . ROCKLAND. . .


CLOTHING


For Men, Youths and Boys.


Furnishing Goods, Hats and Gaps.


A Large and Complete Stock at Lowest Prices.


One of the Oldest Clothing Firms


in Rockland and noted for : :


GOOD GOODS


AND


LOW PRICES


AT


ALL TIMES.


0. E. BLACKINGTON, - Rockland.


-


E BVCKINCION


Jason M. Robbins, was born in Union, June 25, 1838. Educated in the district schools. Married Laura M. Messer, January 10, 1864. Have three children, viz : Hampton L., George E., and Mary A. Mr. Robbins has been a farmer, live stock and real estate speculator, nearly all of his days; he owns 275 acres of land and cuts about 90 tons of hay an- nually. Has also a large orchard. He was a director of the G. V. R. R. for some years and a firm friend of that corpor- ation. He has been the largest tax payer in town for several years. His farm is delightfully situated on an elevation overlooking Seven Tree pond, about two miles from the Common. In the summer of 1894, in company with his son, Hampton L., bought land and commenced the erection of the fine new Robbins Block, so called. We give a good picture of the building which was completed in the autumn of 1894.


£


DUNN & CARR


Bookseller's AND Stationer's.


A Large and Complete Stock of Books on every subject.


All the New Ideas in Plain


An Endless Assortment of


and Fancy Stationery. . Toys and Fancy Articles.


..


..


Magazines and Newspapers.


WALL PAPERS in great variety and at lowest prices.


TISSUE PAPERS and CARD STOCK.


PICTURE FRAMING TO ORDER.


413 Main Street,


ROCKLAND, MAINE.


Fred A. Alden, was born in Union, Feb. 4, 1854. Educated in town and high schools. Married Emeline Watts, of St. George, Nov. 14, 1877. They have three boys. Mr. Alden owns a fine farm of 75 acres near the Common. Cuts on an average 50 tons of hay annually, and raises about 250 barrels of apples each year. He taught school several terms. Has been supervisor of schools several years. Established present high school system in town in 1889. Was elected to the State Legislature in 1889, and re-elected in 1892. Assisted in obtaining charter for Union Water Co. and legalizing doings of town meeting regarding railroad loan, March, 1889. Was elected chairman of Board of Selectmen in 1892. Joined 1. O. O. F. in February, 1878, and has always been prominently connected with the order since that date. Has passed the chairs in Union Lodge and Encampment; has been permanent secretary for several years, also a member of the Grand Encampment. Is member of Sennebec Commandery Golden Cross, and Knights of Pythias, of Union. Has always been a staunch believer in the G. V. R. R., and is at present a member of the board of directors of that corporation.


Everything Necessary for Housekeeping


That is the on which is remodelled


dominant idea based the business of


The Atkinson Furnishing Co.,


343 MAIN STREET, ROCKLAND, ME.


LET . THIS FURTHER ED UPON THESE IL- TIONS OF A LAMP,


IDEA BE


IMPRESS-


YOU BY LUSTRA-


A RANGE, AND A


CHAMBER SUITE ...


We have for your fullest conven- lights, an elevator,and free delivery ling so many varieties of goods ing you much cheaper than you


ience well heated floors, electric to your very door. Our hand- gives us the opportunity of furnish- could get it done by piece meal.


We are always glad to fur- nish Prices and Illustra- tions of any class of goods.


While everything in our store is marked at one Bot- tom Cash Price, we can if desired, furnish on part credit.


W. J. CALDER,


Manager.


Benj. Burton was born in Cushing, Maine, Dec. 12, 1838, and came to Union in 1840. Was educated in the schools of this town. In early life he worked for his father, Church Burton, who was a tanner and general storekeeper. Benj. Burton married Lucie E. Dunton, daughter of John S. Dunton, Oct. 1, 1860. They have had two children : Lola M., born May 7, 1866; Ralph L., born Oct. 3, 1874, and died at the age of fifteen months. Lola M. was married to Calvin I. Burrows, Dec. 10, 1890. Mr. Burton commenced business at Union Common in 1861, with O. A. Burkett, in the boot and shoe and general store business, which was carried on for about six years. He has been postmaster of Union for eleven years; was chairman of the Board of Selectmen, Assessor and Overseer of the Poor for ten years, from 1880 to 1890. Has been Justice of the Peace since Jan. 7, 1880. Is a member of the following bodies of secret societies : Union Lodge, No. 35, I. O. O. F .; Union Lodge, No. 31, F. & A. M. ; Sennebec Commandery, U. O. Golden Cross; Glendale Lodge, No. 89, K. of P .; and Mt. Horeb Encampment, No. 34. Mr. Burton has ever labored for the upbuilding of the town, was zealous in the building of the G. V. R. R., and held the position of secretary from the start to the completion of the road. Commenced the hotel business in Rockland in 1873 at the Lindsey House; in 1875 bought of Chas. A. Barnard what is now known as the Burton House and stables, and has continued to run it as a first-class hotel; and is now actively engaged as one of the incorporators of the Union Water Works.


9


1


7


All goods bearing THIS TRADE MARK are Pure and Unadulterated.


-


TRADE MARK


The Three Crow Brand is a Guarantee of Purity and Excellence. SOLD EVERYWHERE.


ROCKLAND COMMERCIAL COLLEGE


17.


RENSE |BOSTON S & 10 cent STORE | . WJ COAKLEY - DRUGGIST


API THE CAKE


Y HAHOWAR


The largest and Most Successful Institution of it's character in the rate. A complete Business School, offering superior facilities to both sexes for acquiring a Practical Education


All Commercial and Academic Branches Taught, including Shorthand and Typewriting. SPECIAL ATTENTION GIVEN TO PENMANSHIP.


Students can enter at any time. An Elective Course of study for those who have not the time to complete the full course. Expenses less than at any other reputable institution. Prospectus giving full particulars mailed free on application. Address


COMMERCIAL COLLEGE, - Rockland, Me.


.....


...


AT


JEDEDIAH MORSE.


JOHN E. ARNOLD.


65


Jedediah Morse was born in Union, Sept. 17, 1815, being the seventh child of Obadiah Morse, who was born at Sherburne, Mass., Dec. 11, 1776. Worked on his father's farm during his minority, teaching school in winter. In 1840 married Rebecca B. Simmons, daughter of Moses and Mary Simmons. She died Oct. 31, 1880. In 1858 purchased the farm that his father, Obadiah, bought in 1798, and where his son Allenza Forrest now resides. Nov. 21, 1882, married Nancy B. Post of Union and removed to the Common, where he now lives in good health at the age of seventy-nine years.


John E. Arnold was born at Appleton, Maine, January 28, 1855. Son of John and Abbie (Sumner) Arnold. Educated in the public schools of Appleton and Union. Left home at the age of 15 to clerk in a general store at Vinalhaven ; after two years returned to Appleton and served about two years as apprentice in G. H. Page's carriage shops; from there went to Union, where he worked for Wingate, Simmons & Co. in their paint shop, remaining there about nine years. In September, 1881, was married to Myrtilla Vaughn, daughter of the late Dea. Augustus Vaughn of South Union. She died about six months after marriage. Mr. Arnold was elected Town Clerk in 1882, and re-elected in 1883, and held the office up to the time he left Union for the west. Was made Noble Grand of Union Lodge, No. 35, I. O. O. F., when but 22 years of age, and sent as representative to Grand Lodge when 23 years; was a charter member of Mount Horeb Encampment, I. O. O. F., of Union, Maine. In January, 1883, went to Schuyler, Neb., where he entered the store of his brother. After two or three years he formed a partnership with his brother under the firm name of


1


D


66


Arnold Bros., selling out to enter the grain business for a year, then to accept a position as book-keeper in the Schuyler National Bank, which position he now holds in connection with being cashier of the Schuyler Savings Bank, to which he was elected in May, 1892. In 1886 he was elected City Clerk, and in 1887 was re-elected nearly unanimously. In 1892 was elected a member of the Board of Education, being secretary of the board. In 1887 was elected secretary of the Building and Loan Association, and still holds this important position. Is a charter member of Mount Horeb Encampment, I. O. O. F. of Schuyler. Was D. D. G. M. of the I. O. O. F. in 1893 and '94 and for this year he is Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge, I. O. O. F. of Nebraska; is a member of the Masonic fraternity; politi- cally he is a Republican. Was married in 1885 to Miss Ella C. Huntly of Philadelphia with whom he is living a happy life in their very pleasant home in Schuyler, Nebraska.


.


COME AND SWING WITH US. + +


IL!


.....


New o Hardware o Store 21 AND 23 Sea St., Rockland, Maine.


THE LEADING


HARDWARE FIRM OF EASTERN MAINE.


LOWEST PRICES ON


Bar Iron, Sleigh Shoe Steel,


Carriage Stock, Wheels,


Blacksmiths' Supplies,


Horse Shoes, Horse Nails, Horse Rasps, Shelf Goods, Sporting Goods, Farm Implements, Guns, Pistols,


Carpenters' Tools,


Cutlery,


Ammunition,


Paints,


Oils.


VarDishes,


Brushes.


If you don't find what you want elsewhere come to


LAMSON & STIMPSON, 21 and 23 Sea Street, Rockland, Maine.


LEY SEA VE


THOMASTON, mammoth Boot and Shoe Store. LADIES' AND CHILDREN'S BOOTS, SHOES and RUBBERS. FOR MEN AND BOYS


BOOTS, SHOES, RUBBERS. HATS. CAPS. FURNISHING GOODS, READY-MADE CLOTHING, TRUNKS AND VALISES.


LARGEST STOCK ! ! - SMALLEST PRICES ! LEVI SEAVEY, TRADE CENTRE, - Thomaston, me.


-


LEUDE GEXCHE


WARREN HILLS.


Warren Hills was born and has passed nearly all of his life in the town of Union. Early in life was engaged in the tanning business; in 1872 closed out as a tanner and bought stock and good will of the two stove dealers in town, J. E. Payson and J. A. Morrison. Has since that time been a general trader in stoves, hardware and agricultural imple- ments. Has one son, Vivian W. Hills. Mr. Hills has been a member of Union Lodge, F. & A. M. for thirty years : has been master and secretary. Has held the office of Town Clerk, Treasurer, and chairman of the Board of Selectmen and Assessors of Union. Was at one time secretary of the Union Farmers' Insurance Co. Was a member of the State Legis- lature in 1879, also of the memorable legislature of 1880. Is secretary and historian of the Hill's family association. In addition to offices mentioned has occupied other positions of trust in town. Is a stockholder in the G. V. R. R. and took a prominent part in the agitation of the enterprise. He is not a politician, and what offices he has held have been thrust upon him, the man never seeking the office. He is somewhat of an horticulturist, owning several acres of land on which is a fine orchard. Mr. Hills is a man who enjoys the respect and confidence of his fellow townsmen: he is well read in the advanced literature. of the day and owns an excellent collection of books, mostly classics in their line.


£


BITTER ALMOND


STRAWBERRY


.. PINE


VANILLA Rebinsens APPLE


ORANGE


FLAVORING


EXTRACTS


BANANA


ROSE


LEMON


THOMASTON, ME


THE line of Flavoring Extracts manufactured by the G. I. Robinson Drug Company, of Thomaston, are being used more and more by the house- keepers of Eastern Maine. They are thoroughly first-class goods, and "once used always used" is a saying worthy of application in the case of Robinson's XX Flavoring Extracts. They are sold in Union by Whitten & Messer and H. L. Robbins.


It is poor policy to buy cheap extracts at any price. In- sist upon having the best, viz., Robinson's XX Flavoring Extracts.


الأعلى


1


ZIBA SIMMONS.


71


Ziba Simmons, the subject of this sketch, is a member of the firm of Wingate, Simmons & Co., carriage manufacturers of Union, and he has seen a busy life. Dec. 31, 1894, closed his 39th year in the business. During this long period the firm has employed from 20 to 35 skilled mechanics. Mr. Sim_ mons has had nine different partners, five of whom have passed over to the silent majority, viz: J. M. Little, died in 1862; Zuingliess Collins, died in 1871; David C. Pillsbury, died in 1877; Ethana M. Wingate, died in 1890; Charles Mayo, who was a partner in 1856, died in Detroit, Mich.




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