USA > New York > Albany County > Watervliet > History of the city of Watervliet, N.Y., 1630 to 1910 > Part 12
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John Mabin; from Ireland in 1882. Employed for some three years at Roys' Mills. After, in 1885, established the grocery and provision business on Second avenue, Port Schuyler. In 1898 purchased the residence of Gen. A. T. Dunlop, corner of Third avenue and Fifth street. Remodeled it and removed it the same year. In the short time Mr. Mabin has resided in West Troy by perseverance, industry and honest business methods he has secured from the first opening a steady increase of patronage that to-day places him at the head of his line of business in the lower section of the city. At one period member of public improvement com- mission. His residence is connected with the store, with a spacious
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lawn in front, where Gen. Dunham often exhibited the noted horse Moscow. It is the original building, with the four wooden pillars that were in vogue in the early days of the eighteenth century.
1903.
Ambrose Wilcox; came to West Troy in 1850. Cooper; for some time on police force, engaged in the ice business and followed same until his death in 1901.
Andros Wilcox assumed the business and continued until 1897. Death also closed his life work.
Eugene F. Wilcox; educated in the village, also in Troy. Car- ried on the same business of his father for some time. Closed out and opened an office as an insurance agent, real estate and broker- age. One of the few young men that seek opportunities to increase the volume of business already established, believing in the maxim, " If you want something ask for it, or go for it at once." In connection with the above he carries on a large painting and wall paper business, employing expert workmen, and guaranteeing all work.
Thomas A. Mabin, having settled in West Troy in 1872, estab- lished the grocery business at the southeast corner of Twenty-third and River avenue. His business increasing, necessitating more floor space, he removed to his large new store, No. 1010 Twenty- third street. His stock of choice groceries is large, displayed with taste, and customers always receive quick and courteous attention. One of the small number of prominent representative business men of the city that may in the near future be able to retrieve the lost prestige of this commonwealth.
L. W. Truax; located in West Troy in 1894, as carpenter and builder ; through a perfect understanding with his patrons, on contracts, and the fulfilment of same, enabled him to succeed in establishing a lucrative business. On account of poor health he discontinued the same in 1902 and established the grocery business on southwest corner of Twenty-third street and Second avenue. Business increasing, and not having floor space, he removed to his present location, 221 Twenty-third street. Always in touch with the markets, and withal a close buyer, he is enabled to place before his patrons a line of goods to select from, fresh, palatable, and at moderate prices. Elmer C. Truax (son), a valuable assistant, having acquired full knowledge of the business, can be found at all times attentive to the same, filling all orders promptly, believing that promises fulfilled make many friends.
Board of Health is directly interested in the sanitary regula- tions of the city. Where is there any evidence of duty well per- formed, or that they as a body, ever became personally interested in the work coming under their supervision.
Public Schools, Board of Education. The one body of office-
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holders that, with the desire and aid of our citizens, have placed our schools in the front rank of educational institutions in this section.
Gen. John E. Wool Post No. 671. Organized 1905. Col. S. W. Snyder, Commander. Charter Members : Col. S. W. Snyder, William T. Yearsley, William Spencer, Samuel Sexton, William Barker, Cortland Adams. The post has a large membership of vet- erans who served their country during our national troubles in the 60's. Many of them to-day bear the scars that at times have been and are yet the cause of great suffering, and are evidences of supreme loyalty to the government, and an indestructible badge of honor.
1904.
PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES.
George Washington, born February 22, 1732; term of office, 1789 to 1797; died December 14, 1799.
John Adams, born October 30, 1735; term of office, 1797 to 1801; died July 4, 1823.
Thomas Jefferson, born April 2, 1743; term of office, 1801 to 1809; died July 4, 1826.
James Madison, born March 16, 1751; term of office, 1809 to 1817; died June 28, 1845.
James Monroe, born April 28, 1758; term of office, 1817 to 1825 ; died July 4, 1831.
John Quincy Adams, born July 11, 1767; term of office, 1825 to 1829; died February 23, 1848.
Andrew Jackson, born March 15, 1767; term of office, 1829 to 1837; died June 8, 1845.
Martin Van Buren, born December 5, 1782 ; term of office, 1837 to 1841; died July 24, 1862.
William Henry Harrison, born February 9, 1773 ; term of office, 1841, one month; died April 4, 1841.
John Tyler, born March 29, 1790; term of office, 1841 to 1845; died January 18, 1862.
James K. Polk, born November 2, 1795; term of office, 1845 to 1849; died June 15, 1849.
Zachary Taylor, born September 24, 1784; term of office, 1849 to 1850; died July 9, 1850.
Millard Filmore, born February 7, 1800; term of office, 1850 to 1853; died March 8, 1874.
Franklin Pierce, born November 23, 1804; term of office, 1853 to 1857; died October 8, 1869.
James Buchanan, born April 22, 1791; term of office, 1857 to 1861; died June 1, 1868.
Abraham Lincoln, born February 12, 1809 ; term of office, 1861 to 1865 ; re-elected in 1865; assassinated April 15, 1865.
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Andrew Johnson, born December 29, 1808; term of office, 1865 to 1869; died July 31, 1875.
Ulysses S. Grant, born April 27, 1822; term of office, 1869 to 1877; died July 23, 1885.
Rutherford B. Hayes, born October 4, 1822 ; term of office, 1877 to 1881; died January 17, 1893.
James A. Garfield, born November 19, 1831; term of office, 1881; assassinated September 19, 1881.
Chester A. Arthur, born October 5, 1830; term of office, 1881 to 1885; died November 18, 1886.
Grover Cleveland, born March 18, 1837; term of office, 1885 to 1889.
Benjamin Harrison, born August 20, 1833; term of office, 1889 to 1893; died March 13, 1901.
Grover Cleveland, second term; term of office, 1893 to 1897.
William McKinley, born January 29, 1843 ; term of office, 1897 to 1901.
William McKinley, second term; term of office, 1901; assassin- ated September 14, 1901.
Theodore Roosevelt, born October 27, 1858; term of office, 1901 to 1905 ; filled vacancy.
Theodore Roosevelt, term of office, 1905 to 1909.
William H. Taft, term of office, 1909 to 1913.
Fortnightly literary society, organized 1905; Charles L. Oof- hout, president ; Mrs. Florence Hallock, vice-president ; Mrs. David Kelly, recording secretary; Miss Anna M. Agan, corresponding secretary ; Miss Mattie E. Farr, treasurer ; Mrs. F. P. Van Den- bergh, leader.
Engaged in literary research, the ladies of this society quit the ordinary paths of pleasure, and entered the realms of literature, to improve their minds, gaining thereby a knowledge of the master literarians of the world on all subjects. Literature embraces a large field of subjects and he or she that has the inclination during leisure moments to read up on poetry, history, biography or fiction that will enable them to gain a correct idea of the historian's work, adds to their social qualifications, and a classical education. Under the leadership of their able literarian, Mrs. F. P. Van Den- bergh, the society stands pre-eminent.
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1905.
James T. Young, wood worker. Office and factory located on Nineteenth street opposite D. and H. station. To West Troy in 1890. Established in 1897. The largest and only manufactory of first class wood work, including store, office and bank fixtures in this section. The designing and manufacture of all work is under the personal supervision of Mr. Young thereby securing to
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his patrons the benefit of his matured experience in all details of the business which enables him to guarantee satisfaction on all contracts. A leading manufacturer of the city in accord with all legitimate methods to improve the present status of the city, and his friends are many.
George B. Preston Construction Company. Office, corner Fifth street and Second avenue. G. B. Preston, president. Carpenters and builders. Reinforced concrete work and block manufacturers. One of the most enterprising and popular firms in their line in the city. Their work throughout the city is evidence of the reliability of the firm, and the fact that the same is appreciated is noted through accumulating orders. Their motto: First class workman- ship and material at the lowest possible figures consistent with same.
If the spasmodic announcement of the spread eagle meetings of our Board of Trade would only culminate into genuine observable activity and less talk it might be possible to locate in this vicinity a few more desirable firms like those mentioned.
Friday Study Club, a literary society, the members graduates of the Emma Willard and other institutions of like character. Readings, historical and others ; biographies of noted persons and delineation of character, portraying at times humor, pathos and sarcasm, is the menu served at their gatherings. President, Mrs. J. W. F. Podmore; vice-president, Mrs. J. L. Haswell ; treasurer, Mrs. I. M. Haswell; secretary, Mrs. I. G. Braman; historian, Mrs. F. P. Van Denbergh.
W. D. Grady established the drug business in 1908, corner of Twenty-third street and Sixth avenue, the center of a large popu- lation, who appreciate the same, as it brings them nearer to a depot where medical supplies can be obtained as necessity requires and one that circumstances demanded.
Our present police force. Efficient in service, ready at all times to perform their duty, yet oft times seeing their efforts to bring criminals to justice sidetracked through chicanery of court officials in the interest of some political friend of the criminal whereby the case is pigeonholed or sentence suspended, too often to the detriment of all law-abiding citizens.
Charles Noller. From England in 1861. Employed at the United States arsenal as harness maker. Established the business later in Port Schuyler, and in 1888 located in Union Place Flat building, corner Broadway and Fifteenth street. It is the largest and best stocked harness and saddlery concern in the city. A large patronage from noted horsemen enabled a display of fine workmanship in harness on many a winner in races in days gone by. One of the business men of the city who is progressive, and one whose interest and influence in municipal affairs is fully demonstrated through his activity as trustee of the First and
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Second Wards, police commissioner four years, and also former member of Board of Health.
The Ludlum Steel and Spring Co. From New Jersey in 1907. Located on Fifth street near the D. and H. railroad, giving them adequate shipping facilities. President, William E. Ludlum. Edwin Corning, secretary and treasurer. Output consists of crucible cast steel mechanics' tools and railway car springs. A valuable addition to the manufacturing interests of this section, as plants of like character furnish desired employment for resident mechanics.
1906.
The Covert Manufacturing Company. Established in Troy, N. Y., 1873. James C. and Madison Covert, Henry and Scud- der Wakeman constituted the firm. Removed to West Troy in 1879. The Wakemans withdrew, and in 1893 Madison Covert severed his connection with the firm, James C. Covert, pro- prietor, continuing the manufacture of saddlery, harness and wrought iron chains. At this date, 1910, carriage, wagon and automobile jacks, rope ties, halters and hammock ropes, in con- nection with the Covert celebrated harness snap, breast heel and rein chain represent the output of the firm, and are recognized by all prominent horsemen as standard goods. The advanced leaders in their several lines of goods and recognized as such in business circles. The standing of this firm and the location of their plant within this city adds to its prestige, and should be an incentive to our citizens to formulate some plan that would enable them to induce others of like character to locate with us.
H. M. Witbeck & Lawrence, wagon makers, in the old Delevan building, situate on Broadway below Fourteenth street, in 1832. Lawrence withdrew, and the firm was Witbeck & Jones. J. M. Jones Company established in 1839. Location, Delavan Hotel building on Broadway, east side, between Thirteenth and Four- teenth streets, in the village of Gibbonsville. The building is now ninety years old. H. M. Witbeck & J. M. Jones, wagon makers, 1863. Witbeck withdrew, George Lawrence becoming the new member, withdrawing 1864. The manufacture of wagons pre- viously abandoned. John H. and Walter A. Jones became con- nected with the business with their father, J. M. Jones, street rail- way car builders. After his death in 1882 the business con- tinued under the supervision of the brothers until the death of Walter, when John H. Jones became the head of the present firm of J. M. Jones' Sons. During the many years the firm has existed it has been a valuable adjunct to the prosperity of the old village and the present city through the large number of its employees, and as the work necessitated expert mechanics the pay roll was of
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necessity large and therefore an additional benefit to the mer- chants of the city. The members of this firm always have been and are yet interested and take an active part in legitimate move- ments that tend towards elevating and advancing the business interests of the city, but are aware of the fact that combined effort of all forces must obtain to effect desired results.
Herman Carl, one of Troy's early residents, father of Frederick W. Carl, who located in the city of Watervliet in 1904. Proprietor of the largest and best equipped pharmacy in the city. From its first opening a favorable impression was created and a feeling of security was felt that under the new management the prescription department (a material item) would be safeguarded in every point, and that promptness and reliability was to be the motto of the firm. Increased patronage is evidence of the popularity of the firm.
1907.
H. C. Becker, carriage manufacturer. Established 1876. The plant is located on Nineteenth street near Broadway, occupying seven lots, a very desirable location, fronting on same. Since the first day Mr. Becker has endeavored to build only the best that skilled workmen and finished material would produce in a vehicle. His warerooms are replete with full line of wagons, rockaways, three-seated runabouts, top buggies, physicians' car- riages, finished in natural wood or painted. His family sleighs and special style of carriages, when on exhibition, have been a specialty for many years. Mr. Becker has enjoyed the confidence of a large circle of friends throughout this locality, Vermont and Massachusetts, and from the time of the first loca- tion in the old village of West Troy has been an energetic citizen interested in all public affairs tending to the betterment of city government. Six years with the Board of Water Commissioners as president, seeking improvement in the city's supply of water. Also member of the present Board of Public Improvement Com- mission of the city. He also advocates that our best citizens should control municipal affairs. While seeking the welfare of the city has always been prominent along religious lines, and ready to contribute both time and means for the betterment of humanity. Mr. Becker has well earned the reputation which he enjoys for fair dealing. Live and let live.
George Isaac White. From England to Albany, thence to West Troy prior to 1850. Contractor and builder. Superintended the building of the new weighlock, his death occurring in 1856, soon after its erection.
Jonathan White (son), known to-day as John White. Born in 1845. Self educated, except a short season during his early days in the village schools. After a short clerkship with the Troy
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Towing Company he entered the office of Samuel Waterman, lum- ber dealer. In 1880 he resigned his position and established boarding and sales stables, located 1627 Second avenue - well ventilated, commodious box or open stalls, with spacious exercising yard, well sheltered, large storerooms for carriages and sleighs; also handled grain, baled hay, upholstering tow and excelsior in car lots or at retail. Mr. White is well known among the business men of the city, and is in accord with any movement that will add to the future prosperity of the city.
The Searle Manufacturing Company, branch of the noted linen collar and cuff firm of the city of Troy, N. Y., located in the city of Watervliet in one of the factories of the James Roy Company, corner Broadway and Fourth street, for the exclusive manufacture of night robes, pajamas and bath robes, their large volume of business necessitating the addition of another plant to those al- ready established. Their office is pleasantly situated, overlooking the Hudson river and opposite the site of the first flour mill estab- lished in this locality. Their employees numbering over 100 will soon be increased to 200 or more, thereby furnishing employment to those residing in the lower section of the city, and a material addi- tion to the business interests of the city. President, W. W. Searle.
Knaus Bros. & Arwine Company. To Watervliet 1909. Makers of craftstyle furniture, chairs, rockers, settees, Morris chairs, their manufacturing plant occupying the buildings and ground formerly known as the Seymour chair factory, southwest corner Second avenue and Twenty-fifth street. With up-to-date machinery and the employment of over 200 expert mechanics they are in position to meet competition from all sources. The opening of the plant is an addition to those previously located, and the sound of the old whistle announcing the opening and closing of the works recalls to mind the prosperous times of years gone by and an- nounces a new era in the business prosperity of the city.
1908.
Matthew McGrath, came from Ireland to Troy, in 1855. Opened a large bakery on what is now Fifth avenue, but later established a distillery, the next year he disposed of same, and moved to West Troy and opened a wholesale liquor and wine establishment on Ohio and Auburn streets (Third avenue and Twenty-first street). Later the co-partnership of Riley & Mc- Grath was formed, and they established a brewery on Broadway. Mr. McGrath always had the confidence of his business asso- ciates ; honorable in his business transactions, energetic and force- ful, and at the time of his demise, occurring in February, 1875, was sincerely mourned, as was evidenced by the singular fact that when the first carriage reached St. Mary's cemetery, Troy, where
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he was buried, the last one left the eastern end of the Congress street bridge.
Matthew A. McGrath (son), succeeding to the brewing business, but soon after closed it out. Born in the village and educated at the Brother's academy, Troy; entered the mercantile world as a grocer, locating on Twenty-fifth street, his present place of busi- ness. Previous to 1894 he was one of the commissioners appointed to collect the license fee from those selling liquor in the town of Watervliet, a task that required some labor and travel. Always interested in the prosperity of both the old village and the present city, his influence, political and otherwise has always been on the side of justice and right, and hold to the conviction that education, intellectual and moral are the basis of good citizenship. One of the few, who says what he means, and means what he says, though often feeling the sting of ingratitude, his judgment of human nature teaches him to deal kindly with his fellow man.
Hugh F. McGrath. Born and educated in the village, succeeded with his brothers in the brewing business established by his father, and later became identified with the firm of Riley & McGrath, contractors and builders, with headquarters in New York city. Street paving, bridge building, and the erection of concrete build- ings constitutes the principal features. Mr. McGrath's personal knowledge of details connected with that class of work, and his personal supervision of same, enables the firm to make good on all contracts that are awarded them, many specimens being in evi- dence in New York city and other places. Interested in his home city, he is at all times ready to assist in any movement that will advance business interests.
Alfred Passonna. An esteemed citizen from Canada, and one of the prosperous business men of the village. Heavy dealer in grain and other merchandise, a noted dealer in horses, handling blooded stock only, his principal market being New York city. He was a member of the church of the Sacred Heart (French) and largely and at all times deeply interested in its affairs; his sudden death, while driving a spirited horse in New York in 1893, deprived the church of a loyal member, and his family of a kind and loving husband and father.
George H. Lewis, jeweler. In early days the only dealer in his line in the village. A reliable merchant with a stock of goods suitable to the trade. His son, William A. Lewis associated with him, and was prominent. Later established the business in Troy.
J. M. Jones (bookkeeper for Roy & Co.) & W. F. Podmore formed a co-partnership and opened a store of like character. They received considerable patronage, and prospered by close atten- tion to all details of the business. They moved to Troy about 1897, and soon after retired from business. Joseph Podmore (father), died in 1861.
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John T. Smith. From England in 1880; contractor, carpenter and builder. Established himself in West Troy, in 1885. As a new comer, unheralded and unknown his advent among the circle of business men in this section has no precedent, taking into con- sideration the volume of business he has been enabled to establish in the few years residence. Over 100 old buildings have been purchased, and in remodeling same he has not only lessened the dilapidated appearance of many sections of the city, but created beauty spots in many localities. A hustler, his energy and per- severance, and with all his dare to do something, could be emulated by others to the benefit of themselves and the community at large.
The city water supply. The condition that it is in, and the detriment to, not only the individual, but in regard to the health of the community, the tax payers should insist upon an early improvement, and above all the plant should be owned and operated by the city.
The electric light plant, also inadequate to the wants of a city of this size. Everything connected with it is a back number; modern machinery and lamps throughout the city should imme- diately be installed. As it stands to-day, it is a costly asset, with- out satisfactory results.
1909.
Excelsior Bag and Manufacturing Company, Incorporated. Established in Troy, N. Y., 1903; incorporated 1908. This com- pany was located at the corner of Federal and River streets, Troy, for some years and enjoyed a good business. In February, 1910, the company bought the building No. 2328-2330 Second avenue, and moved their business to this city. This change was brought about on account of the better conditions, shipping facilities, etc., that the city offered. This concern is one of the most enterprising in this section, having representatives in all large cities, it also has a large export trade. The output consists of mechanics tool bags, tool rolls, grass catchers, and many other specialties for the hardware and the automobile trade. With an up-to-the-minute shop, equipped with expensive machinery, coupled with close super- vision, this company is in position to take care of all orders, with care and dispatch.
James O'Connell, settled in West Troy in 1838. Trainman, with the old Rensselaer & Saratoga Railroad, for years. Died in 1878. His wife, neice of Levy, the popular clothier, located in early times, southeast corner, now Broadway and Twenty-third street.
James H. O'Connell. Born about 1865, prominent resident of the city. Insurance and other business. Connected with the Delaware & Hudson Railroad, and present supervisor of the city.
William J. O'Connell (son). Educated in the city, first occu-
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pation newsboy for Mr. Ogden, bookkeeper and stenographer, and at this date, foreman for the Excelsior Bag & Manufacturing Company.
King Manufacturing Company. Plant located in the old Chollar, Sage and Dunham building, northeast corner Broadway and Eighth street. Their line consists of waste water traps, the design and the application and use of same assures satisfactory results. President, F. B. Durant; secretary and treasurer, Henry Maybe; superintendent, John H. King. As this goes to print they are closing out.
The United States Arsenal. The continuance of the same as a military post being the one large mote in the eye of the gen- eral public that is obstructing a sensible and clearly defined view of the situation to the detriment of the mercantile business, and manufacturing interests of the city. I have reference to the attempts of our citizens to secure from the government more work, and a larger increase of employees at the post, with the view of establishing better conditions for the future. The point aimed at, and the modus operandi to gain the same, will never materialize. As far as the government is concerned, it has passed its usefulness, and the number of mechanics formerly employed, mostly residents, that made the post of value to this section, never will occur again. As a residential section, it is one of the finest in the city, and utilized as such it would add better results than its continuation under previous and present conditions. As a location for manu- facturing plants, it is an ideal one, and if it became available, there is not the least doubt that there are firms that would take advantage of the opportunity to secure a location, and P. T. Barnum's idea, that has done so much for Bridgeport, Conn., and given it a proud position in the manufacturing world: viz., (that 100 small firms of 100 employees) was of more substantial benefit that one large one of 1,000 is correct, and the idea is worthy of consideration by our citizens and Board of Trade. There is a possibility that the government might be inclined to consider a proposition to dispose of its useless possession. Citizens carefully consider the situation, digest the matter, act as unbiased judgment dictates.
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