I N m m m 11"J"A 4 j l i I,IIII, 0 I I I I* WASHTENAW COUNTY HISTORIC MICHIGAN LAND OF THE GREAT LAKES Its Life, Resources, Industries, People, Politics, Government, Wars, Institutions, Achievements, the Press, Schools and Churches, Legendary and Prehistoric Lore Edited by George N. Fuller, A.M. (Harvard), Ph.D. (Univ. of Mich.) Secretary of the Michigan Historical Commission and Secretary of the Michigan Pioneer and Historical Society Also A Third Volume Devoted to Washtenaw County Edited by Byron Alfred Finney, A.B.:rp VOLUME III W,^ Published by National Historical Association, Inc. and Dedicated to the Michigan Pioneer and Historical Society in Commemoration of Its Fiftieth Anniversary Preface When Everts and Stewart, of Chicago, published their Atlas of Washtenaw county in 1874, they included a very inadequate sketch of the history of the county. With the organization of the Washtenaw County Pioneer Society in 1873 the first measures for some detailed and accurate history were taken. An historical committee was soon appointed, manuscripts of statistics and reminiscences of pioneers, then living, were prepared, and in a few years the problem of publishing appeared so large and difficult that the accumulated manuscript was turned over to another Chicago publisher and was completed under the name "History of Washtenaw County." This work, which contained many short sketches of early citizens and was published in 1881, has long been out of print. In 1891 there was issued a "Portrait and Biographical Album of Washtenaw County" which was confined to sketches of prominent citizens and presented no connected history. In 1906 a volume entitled "The Past and Present of Washtenaw County" was published. This book was edited by Samuel W. Beakes and was devoted largely to biographical sketches, which brought the history of the county well up to date. But after another twenty years had gone by, with the progress in achievement and the development of agriculture and industry, and of men and women who made that progress possible, the National Historical Association, Inc., of Dayton, Ohio, with many years of experience in work of this kind, believed the time was ripe for another history of the county, covering both the biographical and historical features. Now, in connection with a work of a more general nature, in two volumes, which the National Historical Association is publishing, entitled "Historic Michigan," edited by Dr. George N. Fuller, secretary of the Michigan Historical Commission, this volume has been prepared and will form for Washtenaw county a third volume of the whole work. Byron Alfred Finney, A. B. Table of Contents CHAPTER IWASHTENAW COUNTY PRIOR TO SETTLEMENT-PRIMITIVE MAN OF MICHIGAN-NATURAL FEATURES-COMING OF THE WHITE MAN-INDIAN TITLE-FORMATION OF THE COUNTY................. 17-24 CHAPTER IIORGANIZATION OF THE COUNTY- EARLY SETTLERS- HURON RIVER NAVIGATION-FIRST SETTLEMENTS-WOODRUFV-GEEYPSILANTI-THE ALLENS-CREATION OV TOWNSHIPS............ 25-38 CHAPTER IIITOWNS AND CITIES-ANN ARBOR-FIRST SETTLERS IN THE CITY -EARLY STORES-CHURCHES-BOOM TOWNS-SPECULATIONFIRST RAILROAD 1839-YPSILANTI-EARLY COMERS-MILLINGINDUSTRIES- BANKS- POPULATION............................................................39-65 CHAPTER IVMISCELLANEOUS-STREET LIGHTING-GAS COMPANY-WATERWORKS-MUNICIPAL OWNERSHIP-COUNTY BUILDINGS-POSTOFFICE-PIONEER AND HISTORICAL SOCIETY-ELECTRIC RAILWAYS - OTHER RAILROADS.....................................6 -....................66-74 CHAPTER VMANUFACTURE AND COMMERCE-GRIST AND SAW-MILLS-TANNERIES-WOOLEN MILLS-BLAST FURNACE-SOAP AND POTASHBREWING-FURNITURE-COOPERAGE -IRON AND MACHINERY - PAPER MILLS- OIL-ECONOMY BALER —KING-SEELEY-HOOVER BALL-DRUGS AND CHEMICALS-CHELSEA SCREW......................75-85 CHAPTER VIBANKS...............,................................86-93 CHAPTER VIIEDUCATION..........................................................................................................................94-112 CHAPTER VIIIM ILITARY................................................................................................................ 13-126 CHAPTER IXT H E PRESS.............................................................................................................. 127-130 CHAPTER XBENCH AND BAR................................................31-138 CHAPTER XIPH YSICIANS AND H ALTH.................................................................................139-144 Index to Personal Sketches Abbott, Horatio J........................ 220 Allemendinger, G. Frank................ 145 Alway, Guy G.-......-.................. 145 Anderson, Henry C........................ 146 Andres, Sam C.................-............... 146 Andrews, Louis C........................ 147 Arnet, Joseph Lawrence.................... 147 Arnold, William................................ 220 Atwell, Harry H................................ 148 Ayres, Louis E.............................. 148 Baker, R. Ray......................... 149 Barss, H. D........................................... 149 Beal, Junius E......................... 149 Beebe, Hugh M....1.................... 150 Blair, William.................. 151 Brooks, Charles L............................... 151 Butler, W. H..................................... 152 Calkins, E. E........................................ 154 Campbell, R. A..................................... 154 Campbell, R. C.................. 154 Canfield, R. Bishop............................. 155 Cole, Ray A...................................... 156 Cooley, Mortimer E......................-... 157 Cornwell, Frank I.................... 160 Cox, John J..................................... 160 Cummings, Howard H....................... 161 Curtiss, Darwin Z............................... 162 Cuthbert, W. D.......................... 163 Dawson, Lee F..................................... 164 Dolph, Ray A....1............................ 165 Dunkle, M. J.........................................166 Dwyer, John W............................... 167 Eberbach, Oscar A....-............... 168 Eberbach, Ottmar..............................168 Edwards, J. W..................................... 169 Fingerle, D. J............................. 220 Finney, Byron A................................ 170 Fisher, Leonard P............................ 171 Flowerday, George R....................... 171 Forschee, Dewey M........................... 172 Forsythe, L. L..................................... 172 Freeman, Charles C...................... 173 Gallup, Charles E............................... 173 Gates, Neil A....................................... 174 Goodyear Drug Co -........ —...-...-.....- 82 Graham, Charles W......................... 174 Groves, William T......................-... 175 Henderson, Charles R..................... 176 Heusel, F. J......................................... 76 Hinshaw, Thomas D.......................... 177 Hiscock, Dana E...................... 177 Holland, Howard K............................ 178 Holland, Ray K................................ 179 Holmes, F. Roy.................................... 179 Holmes, Howard S............................. 180 Kasurin, Paul.........................181 Killins, David A................................. 181 Klingman, Theophil............................ 181 Kolb, William G.......................... 182 Kurtz, Walter L................................... 182 Lapoint, Francis J............................... 183 Lehman, Carl A.................................. 183 Lewis, George E........B........... 184 Lonskey, J. H.................................... 84 Lundgren, John H...... -............... 185 McDonald, A. L................................... 185 McIntyre, Donald S............................. 186 McKenney, Charles-....................... 186 McKinley, Clare H...............................187 Mack, E. P..........................187 Malcolm, J. Karl.................................. 188 Max, Mathew.......-..................... 189 Muehlig, Bertha E........................... 189 Millen, George W......-..................... 189 Miller, Ralph H........................ 190 Moran, Selby A.....................190 Morrill, Oscar D...-.................... 192 Mummery, A. F. A......................... 192 Myers, Dean W............................... 193 Newkirk, Henry Wirt........................ 194 Norris, Robert..................................... 195 Osgood, Manley......................... 195 Pommerning, Alvin H..................... 196 Potter, Harry 0................................... 196 Pray, Claramon L............................... 197 Pray, Jay G...........................................197 Pruner, Earl G.................................... 198 Reichert, Rudolph E..-.................... 198 Reule, Andrew........................ -199 Roberts, Charles S.............................199 Rohde, William H. L............... 200 Runciman, H. D................................... 200 Sandenburgh, George H.................... 201 Schaefer, G. Frank...................... 201 Sink, Charles A................................... 202 Sink, Emory W................................ 203 Sinn, J. J........................... 203 Spedding, Howard L........................... 204 Starbuck, G. L................-......... 204 Stegath, Frederick H......................... 205 Stein, Eugene........................................ 205 Stevens, Roe B.................................. 205 Stitt, M erle C....................................... 206 Stivers, Frank A................................. 207 Stofflet, Elmer M................................. 208 Stuhrberg, Carl H....................... —.. 208 Sugden, Mark B......................208 Swisher, John E................................ 209 Travis, John E..................................... 209 VanAmeringen, Victor E................... 210 Vanderweele, John E..................... 210 VandeWalker, Hugh E...................... 211 W ahr, Charles...................................... 211 Ward, Marcus L........................ 211 Washburne, Charles L.................... 212 Wedemeyer, Victor...................... 212 Wessinger, John A.......................... 213 Westerman, Kenneth N................... 213 Westgate, Harry E..................... 214 W ikel, Leslie A.............................. 214 Williams, Gardner S................. 214 Williams, Hubert A...................... 215 Wilson, Arch D.......2............. 216 Woodbridge, P. P.......................... 216 Wuerth, Charles........-............... 217 Wuerth, J. Fred.......................... 217 Zimmerman, Daniel E...................... 218 Zwerdling, Osias............................. 219 CHAPTER I WASHTENAW COUNTY PRIOR TO SETTLEMENT PERIOD of less than three centuries covers our knowledge of that region of which Michigan forms a part and much of that written today is founded on tradition. We do know that, prior to the eighteenth century, this region was occupied by the Indian, but the ethnological problem of the origin of the Indian, whether from the lost tribes of Israel or an off-shoot of the Asiatic Tartars, or, perhaps, a production of the Creator peculiar to the American continent, is not one which is included in the scope of this volume. Much evidence is in existence leading some to believe that, prior to the beginning of the Christian Era, this part of our continent was inhabited by people of a higher degree of civilization than the Indians known to our early pioneers. In a lecture given in 1915, on the "Primitive Man of Michigan," Professor W. B. Hillsdale of the University of Michigan, speaking of these alleged evidences of a higher culture said, "neither is there tenable evidence that a people more advanced in culture than the red Indians ever occupied Michigan territory previous to the advent of the white man." He further concludes, "that the Indian was a victim of accident and was a savage by accident. No accident of change started him towards a goal of higher culture and the cruelest accident of all was the accidental invasion of his dominion by another race that did not understand in the slightest degree either his nature or his possibilities. The opportunity is forever gone, if ever attained, for the native American. So far as the affairs of the world are concerned he has made no more impression than the buffalo. It has always been the law of man, as well as the rest of nature, that the weakling must yield to the stronger; and civilization has not changed the law. The Indian will not have been of any more importance in the enduring affairs of civilization than the mastadon and will have dropped from notice while the descendants of the wild turkey, upon which he feasted, will survive." Be that as it may the Indians, for at least two or three centuries prior to the coming of the white man as pioneers, had found the region composing Washtenaw county, an ideal rendezvous, especially in the summer time and well they might. That the Indians made this section a common point for assemblage is evidenced by the fact that many Indian trails, leading from all parts of the country, led to and intersected at or near the present site of the city of Ypsilanti. The country was beautiful, the forests and waters abounded in game, affording the natives abundance of meat for food and skins for protection. It is known that, in the days before the coming of the white man, the grain we call corn, as well as pumpkins, squashes and beans were raised by the Indians. The professor adds: "The cultivation of the soil, as far as it was carried on, was a part of the women's drudgery. Many wild plants, such as the roots of the wild sun-flower, milk-weeds 18 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY and lilies were eaten. Wild rice, so attractive to the wild fowls, was also an important and nutritious article of their diet. All the edible nuts, including acorns, were gathered and stored in large quantities by the women and children. Berries were eaten fresh. They were also dried, as were the pumpkin and squash, and preserved for winter consumption. The Indians were the first makers of maple sugar and from them the pioneers learned sugar making. The idea prevails, in reference to the Indians, that they were indolent, lazy loafers. It could not have been so. The Indian, from necessity, must have been active, alert and always on the lookout for means of subsistence and for shelter. It required hard labor to pursue, gather and carry home provisions for the family. The chase for game and fish was no less arduous and precarious than hazardous. He pitted his agility, cunning and endurance against all nature, animate and inanimate. His implements of the chase and for domestic use he clove from the rocks or laboriously fashioned from wood, bone or shell. Their means of transportation and conveyance required patience and industry in the extreme. The Indian women prepared the food, dressed the hides, made the clothing, put up the wigwam, provided for and kept the fire, made the bark storage boxes, plaited the carrying baskets, shaped and fired the pottery, cultivated the corn and was the beast of burden on moving day. When we consider his abode, his tools, his precarious means of subsistence, his struggles with nature, which attacked him with cold, flood, famine and the innumerable exigencies of the forest, plain, lake and stream, the wonder is, not so much how he existed, but that he lived at all. The Indian has practically disappeared from our midst but not without leaving his supplanters with forceful reminders. Indian names are attached to streams, mountains, states, lakes, counties and towns in numbers so great that no day passes but that we mouth parts of his language, having raised his words and phrases, which originally had suggestive means, to the dignity of proper names. Every corn-crib is his monument for the first one was made by him." These earlier inhabitants of our country have been discussed in preceding volumes and we are only concerned, at this time, with the early pioneer settlers of our immediate vicinity, Washtenaw county. As far as the Indian is concerned the settlement of the county has been but little affected. Washtenaw county pioneers and settlers underwent none of the hardships resulting from murderous raids and atrocities perpetrated by the Indian as did many settlers of the early times in other parts of our country before, during and after the War of Independence. When Mad Anthony Wayne, in 1794, defeated the Indians so decisively he destroyed in them forever the spirit of open defiance and obstruction to the coming of the white man, at least in this section. And it was a comparatively peaceful land, a land of surpassing beauty, that invited the early settlers of Washtenaw county to carve from the wilderness, homes for themselves and posterity. To impart to the reader some idea of the beauty of the country at the time it was solely occupied by the native Indian and the advantages it presented for settlement by the white man, we quote from a letter written by a person who saw and in HISTORY OF WASHTEINAW COUNTY 19 spected the country a short time after the arrival of the first settlers, before the face of the country had been noticeably altered. He says: "The singular and interesting appearance of the country, in its alternating groves and fields, orchards and timberlands, is a subject of inquiry to the person with a speculative mind. To me it has the appearance of a highly improved district from which every vestige of art has been annihilated. It is supposed by many to have been produced by the labor and enterprise of the natives for the culture of the Indian corn. This is very improbable. The character and habits of no tribe of Indians of which we have any knowledge in North America, would justify any such an opinion. So far as my observations and inquiries have extended they go to the support of the hypothesis that the fire, annually communicated by the Indians for the purpose of hunting, has provided the present prairies, plains and openings that diversify the whole face of the country." Green intervals dotted with grazing deer, broad plains blackened with buffalo, broke the sameness of the woodlawn scenery. Before the settlers came the woods resembled an immense park; there was scarcely any underbrush, few grubs and no small trees. The annual burning of the grass, by the Indians, had left the forests clear of all such obstructions and the eye dwelt with delight upon the vista that extended before it under the leafy archway of the immense roof that expanded above in every direction. During the summer the grasses grew in great luxuriance and in the fall would dry up, wither and bend down, covering the earth with a thick matting of combustible material. The fires would sweep through this mass of highly inflammable grass with great rapidity, clearing everything in the way, but doing no damage to the forest trees, making the country free from underbrush. The coming of the white man changed all this; the annual fires made by the Indians ceased and the roots of the grubs had a chance to start up, the seeds of the trees to germinate and grow, and today, a fire in the forests has become a thing greatly feared. Through the forests of the early days the Indians and the fur traders had wandered through Washtenaw county; through the entanglements of the later or underbrush era the hardy American pioneers pushed and cut their way. It ofttimes has been a matter of wonderment why Michigan, especially the southern portion, had not been settled long before it was and that portions of the United States less inviting and with fewer advantages and more remote, were sought by the restless hordes of pioneers seeking new homes. There were several reasons. Notwithstanding the fact that the pioneers had little or nothing to fear on account of the Indians, the earlier settlement of the county and the balance of southern Michigan, was held back by the ridiculous report made by the surveyor general of Ohio, who had been instructed by the government to make a survey of this section and whose duty it was to report to congress, after making such survey, on the condition as existing here. The report having, in due course of time, been made and gaining, through the members of congress, great publicity and credence, said in part: "Taking the country altogether, so far as it has been explored, to all appearances it is so bad that there would not be more than one acre out of one hundred that 20 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY would in any case admit to cultivation." And so the fame of the Great Michigan Swamp was broadcast, turning aside the flow of immigration passing our very doors. It was not until after the war of 1812 that this unjust and erroneous description of southern Michigan was contradicted and the attention of the people of the eastern states called to the real condition and its desirability as a locality for settlement, with a fair chance of prosperity and happiness to those who might avail themselves of the advantages offered. Soldiers discharged from our army at Detroit, at the close of the war, returned to their homes in Ohio, Kentucky, Virginia and other eastern states, were loud in their praise of the country and their stories told to their families, friends and neighbors, varied greatly from the report of the Ohio surveyor, who probably had not been in person over the lands he undertook to describe to the officials at Washington. And in addition to the fact that the people of the country at large had had such an unfavorable impression of Michigan, immigration was also delayed for the reason that it was several years after the treaty of peace had been signed, ending the Revolutionary War, before England gave up possession of this part of our country. Before the first settlers came into Washtenaw county, the permanent form of government of this section of the country had undergone several changes. Up to the year 1760 it had been French territory. It then became English and in 1787 became constructively American as a result of our War of Independence, but the English did not deliver it up to the United States until 1797, and for years after that maintained a semblance of a claim, or at least created a feeling of uncertainty. At that time Michigan was a part of the Northwest Territory and so remained until the year 1800, when Ohio was set off as a separate territory and the remainder, including Michigan, was designated as the Territory of Indiana, and as the boundary line between Ohio and Indiana was from the mouth of the Kentucky river to Fort Recovery, then due north to Canada, this part of Michigan, including Washtenaw county, formed a part of Ohio, a condition existing for three years when Ohio was admitted as a state and the territory north of its present boundary was added to Indiana. In 1805 the Territory of Michigan was set off from Indiana. And, too, for many years after the War of Independence and during a period of a great movement of settlers from the east to the newer countries of Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, Michigan was comparatively inaccessible and only reached after a long and wearisome journey. Immigrants, in leaving their old habitats, naturally seek to reach the new by the least laborious and dangerous routes. To encourage and assist settlement of what was then known as the Northwest Territory, the government had undertaken to build a wagon road over the Allegheny Mountains from Baltimore, Maryland, to a point on the Mississippi river, bisecting the present states of Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. From that line of transportation Michigan received but little benefit, but the completion of the Erie canal, in 1825, connecting the waters of the Hudson river and the Atlantic with those of the Great Lakes, gave a tremen HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 21 dous impetus to immigration to the eastern part of the new Territory of Michigan, but not until about that time were steps taken to aid travel through the territory itself, when the President was authorized by congress to appoint commissioners to survey and mark out a road from Detroit to Chicago, then but a small collection of log cabins. Three years later an appropriation was made by congress for the construction of the road which was designed to open up the vast prairies west of the lakes as well as the fertile and splendid country comprising the southern portion of the Territory of Michigan, which by this time was attracting some attention. The country to the north was but little known and less esteemed except by those engaged in the fur trade, and it was many years later before the flood of immigration developed its wonderful resources in a forest growth which became the wonder of the world. Two other roads, leading from Detroit, were authorized by congress in 1827, but they figured but little in the settlement of Washtenaw county. In 1832 a road from Detroit to the mouth of Grand river on Lake Michigan was authorized by congress, which was of great advantage to the settlers in making the journey through the new territory. The timber throughout the entire section was very heavy and consisted mainly of white wood, bass wood, black walnut, cherry, ash, oak, hard maple, beech, butternut and elm with some white pine of excellent quality near the more northern limits, and in the then condition of the territory, vast quantities were burned in log heaps or made into fence rails by the settlers clearing the land for farm purposes. And while the early settlers were aware of the existence, further north, of vast forests of pine, they did not fully comprehend their extent up to as late as 1870, yet knew enough to render them skeptical as to the possibility of their exhaustion in their own or the lifetime of their children. The supply of timber in Maine alone was supposed to be sufficient, with the most wasteful extravagance, to supply all demands of a century, hence the early settlers of Washtenaw county set little value on the natural resources of the forests. Of the several nations which struggled to obtain a permanent foothold in the New World following its discovery, the efforts of France and England were the most extensive and lasting, but the objects of the two were of an entirely different nature. The primary object of the French was to build up and derive the profitable benefits of trade with the natives and secondarily, the conversion of those natives to the true faith of Christ, and the Jesuit priests early established and maintained missions throughout the French possessions, the aim being, not the settlement of the country, but, as stated, the conversion of the savages. The French fur trader was naturally as unfriendly to colonization as the Jesuit priests who came solely as apostles to the Indians and did not wish them to be contaminated by the vices of the white man. The establishment of a sufficient number of trading posts, at convenient and strategic points to which he could take his furs for shipment to the markets of the world, was all the improvement the French fur trader desired. The wild animals would be driven away by the encroachment of the 22 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY farmer, the Indians would disappear with the animals of the forest and the business of the fur trader be ruined. With the English it was an entirely different matter, and while the English government encouraged and protected the trader, the primary object was colonization-to make a new England, peopled with the same kind of people that had made Merrie England what it was. With trading posts scattered over the vast Northwest Territory from Mackinac to Vincinnes and from lake to lake it was not only natural but necessary that the French should make a settlement at some suitable place, a central point, for the obtaining of supplies in exchange for the furs obtained from the natives. Furthermore, the establishment of a well fortified settlement at such a place would afford a place of refuge in case of danger, and would be an obstruction to the encroachments of other nations and for this purpose and to insure the French supremacy, La Motte Cadillac, in 1701, established not only a well fortified military post, but also a settlement for trade and agriculture. Thus began Detroit. Carpenters, smiths, and in fact, craftsmen of all kinds were brought to the new settlement and in a few years skilled mechanics and artisans had become numerous in Detroit. The buildings were substantially built of the best material, oak and cedar, and in many instances with good stone foundations. A grist mill was erected and put in operation and was followed later on by others and by the erection of a sawmill. In the middle of the century, many stone quarries were being worked. Lime was being manufactured. Agriculture was carried on in the immediate vicinity and corn and wheat were being shipped east by the way of the lakes; cattle, horses and hogs were raised in large numbers and gardening and the raising of fruit were extensively carried on. In the course of the century following its establishment the growth of Detroit was wonderful, but this growth and prosperity extended but little beyond its immediately vicinity and the history of Michigan during that century is the history of Detroit. When the English had deprived the French of their American provinces and came into possession of Detroit, there appeared for a time to be an opportunity of developing the territory along English lines. As England was finding herself entangled in a quarrel with her own colonies, little was done except to protect what she already possessed, and for some time the country which Jacques Marquette, Robert Cavalier de La Salle and other Frenchmen had sought, with untold hardship, to develop for the agrandizement of France lay dormant, as far as settlements were concerned. As possession of this wonderful territory by the Americans followed that by the British, some of the more adventurous pioneers began to "land hunt" throughout southern Michigan. The French traders and probably the Jesuit priests, undoubtedly made trips through this country long before a settlement began but if they did they left no record. Three Frenchmen, Gabriel Godfroy, Francois Pepin and Romaine Le Chambre, who had been living at Detroit and had realized the value of this section, determined to establish a trading post on the west bank of the Huron river near what is now the corner of Huron and Pearl streets in the HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 23 city of Ypsilanti. Here they erected a log cabin which they used as a store for trading with the roving Indians and two years later, in 1811, the three men, encouraged by the prospects of success, took advantage of an act of congress, long since obsolete, by which they acquired patents to four pieces of land afterwards known as the Four French Claims. Their four claims adjoined one another, and in all comprised 2,359 acres. At the time these men established their trading post at Ypsilanti, they felt themselves an outpost of civilization. No indication of civilization was to be seen outside their clearings for miles. Nor was it their purpose or desire that land seekers should become favorably impressed with the country, but in this they were sadly disappointed. In dismay, before the first real settlement was made in the county, they quit their business, disposed of their land and left the locality. The Indian title to the lands of which Washtenaw county formed a part, was transferred to the United States government by treaty in 1807 and later in the years 1811 and 1821, by the same process, the title to all the land south of the Grand river was lost by the Indian and he removed to his new home in the west. The traders' business was ruined and he was compelled to give way to the new state of affairs. Such was the condition in this vicinity in 1821, ready and waiting the coming of its future inhabitants. At this time it was not a trackless forest; openings denuded of trees and shrubs, carpeted with luxuriant grass and flowers were interspersed here and there. Slow in starting, the settlement of the county which began two years later, was rapid and by a royal race, for if truth, integrity, intelligence and heroism are traits of nobility, truly the pioneers of our fair Washtenaw were a right royal body. These brave men and women came to Washtenaw county and to Michigan with little to aid them in the conquest of the wilderness save courageous heads and strong and willing hands and to them is due all honor for the labor so nobly performed, for the solid and sure foundation which they laid for a great commonwealth, and by their wisdom, enterprise and energy, developed its wonderful resources until today it ranks with the proudest of our common country. Realizing the tremendous prospects ahead for early settlement of this part of the state Governor Lewis Cass, authorized by an act of the territorial council, issued the following proclamation: To all whom these presents shall come, greeting; I have thought it expedient to lay out the following county, that is to say: All the county included in the following boundaries: beginning on the principal meridian, where the line between the townships numbered 2 and 3, north of the base line, intersect the same, thence south to the line between the townships numbered 4 and 5, south of the base line; thence east to the line between the 7th and 8th ranges, east of the principal meridian; thence north to the base line; thence west with the base line, to the line between the 6th and 7th ranges, east of the principal meridian; thence north, to the line between the townships numbered 2 and 3, north of the base line; thence west to the place of beginning; shall form a county to be called the county of Washtenaw. It is hereby declared that the county herein laid out, to-wit, the county of Washtenaw, shall be organ 24 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY ized whenever, hereafter, the competent authority for the time shall so determine, and that until then the said county shall be attached to and compose a part of the county now organized, in the following manner: the county of Washtenaw shall be attached to and compose a part of the county of Wayne. In testimony whereof, I have caused these letters to be made patent, and the great seal of the said territory to be hereunto affixed. Given under my hand, at Detroit, this 10th day of September, in the year of our Lord, 1822, of the Independence of the United States, the 47th. LEWIS CASS. And the history of the permanent settlement of Washtenaw county begins. EA\RLN. (01'VI'TI llOU),SF SO II,) I UFRS' MO 0N U, \I ENT!, VPS I 1, ANTII EAST HIT RON STElANN ARBOR CHAPTER II ORGANIZATION OF COUNTY IN 1822, at a time when there was not a white settler or trader within the limits of the county, the governor of the territory, authorized to do so by an act of the legislative council, issued a proclamation defining the boundaries of Washtenaw county, but as a county required citizens to complete an organization, Washtenaw having none was attached to and was to comprise a part of Wayne county until duly organized as a separate county. The act of the legislative council, which by act of congress was composed of the governor and the judges of the supreme court of the territory and given legislative power by that act, defined the boundaries of the county to include forty towns (a town being practically six miles square) differing greatly from the present boundaries. The boundaries included the present twenty towns, the two eastern tiers of towns of what is now Jackson county, the two southern tiers of towns of what is now Livingston county and four towns now forming a part of Ingham county. Favorable reports as to this section had gained general credence and at this time, while there were no white settlers in the county, many Americans were scouring the western country (land-lookers they were termed) seeking either a location for a future permanent home for themselves and families, or, with a vision of future great profits, looking for tracts of land to purchase at the low government rate of one dollar and a quarter per acre, with the intention, not of improving it themselves, but of holding it until all desirable land in the vicinity had been disposed of and then selling at greatly advanced prices. Many of the former class returned to their eastern homes, sold what property they could not conveniently carry away, rigged out their wagons and teams of oxen and horses, stowed away their plows and other agricultural implements, also provisions for the trip, and with their families set out for the new country. The first of these to purchase land in the county, was Eli Kellogg, who bought one hundred and thirty-two acres in the limits of the present city of Ypsilanti in the year 1822. In the same year Judge A. B. Woodward, a resident of Detroit, and chief justice of the territory, bought land. Neither of these men became permanent settlers of the county and in 1825 the judge sold his land to Lucius Lyon, who afterwards became a very prominent man in the affairs of the territory and state and very active in everything pertaining to the welfare of the people, particularly at Grand Rapids and Ionia. Prior to 1820 the price of government land was $2.00 per acre, of which fifty cents was paid "down" and the balance of $1.50 per acre was divided into three equal annual payments but in that year the price was fixed at $1.25 per acre and a cash payment of the entire amount required. The year 1823 opened and still Washtenaw county was without a 26 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY permanent settler, but before the year had expired we find that land had been purchased by sixteen would-be settlers. In April, Benjamin J. Woodruff bought the west half of the northwest fractional quarter of section 15 in what is now Ypsilanti township, containing 60 acres "more or less." A few days later he bought 100 acres more and located the village of Woodruff Grove, thereby becoming the first permanent settler in the county. James McCloskey followed and purchased "that part of section 26 in Ann Arbor township which lies south of the Huron river," containing nearly nineteen acres. This land was about one and one-half miles down the river from the present site of the city of Ann Arbor. Titus Bronson, who afterwards laid out the village of Bronson, now the city of Kalamazoo, bought 65 acres near the land of Benjamin Woodruff. Thomas Sackrider, a carpenter by trade, bought 80 acres in the section lying north of Woodruff's land and built a house the same year. Oronte Grant bought 100 acres nearby. Orrin White, in July, bought 162 acres in section 27, east of the present limits of the city of Ann Arbor. John Bryan bought 80 acres adjoining Sackrider. Hiram Tuttle bought 72 acres a little southwest of Woodruff. Hiram Johns bought 71 acres adjoining the land of Eli Kellogg purchased the year before, but probably for speculative purpose. In September, David McCord bought 80 acres about two miles southwest of the present site of the city of Ypsilanti. Ralph Fleming bought three different pieces, one of 70 acres, about three and a half miles south of the city of Ypsi-. lanti in section 24, near the present site of Rawsonville; 93 acres in section 36 near the present site of Geddes, and 45 acres adjoining this. On the same day, September 29, Harry S. Snow bought 85 acres near Fleming's land southwest of Ypsilanti and on this tract the village of Rawsonville was located. Erasmus Guilford bought 160 acres about half way between the present sites of the city of Ypsilanti and the village of Rawsonville. The village of Rawsonville was known for many years as Snow's Landing, the Huron river being used quite frequently by boats from its mouth to the village. Daniel Cross bought 78 acres further up the river. In October, George W. Noyes bought 79 acres in section 15, a short distance from the present site of Ypsilanti. Winter coming on, the "land-lookers" deferred further operations until the following spring. The lands in that section of the county, afterwards designated as Ypsilanti township, seemed to be the most attractive to the pioneers of 1823, but the following year the land in Ann Arbor township seemed to have been more sought after and while the number of land purchases in Ypsilanti township for the year 1824 was fourteen, in Ann Arbor township twenty-four purchases were made. Land in the present townships of Superior, Northfield, Webster, Dexter, Scio, Pittsfield and Lodi was also taken up by several settlers and the land office at Detroit was kept busy during the year of 1824. In every locality, with which the writer is acquainted, there has always been a discussion and difference of opinion as to who was the first settler of that particular county, village or town. Washtenaw proves to be no exception to the rule. The claim of Eldridge Gee, who undoubtedly located in Superior township in the month of February, 1823, a short time before Major HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 27 Woodruff came, seems to have been rejected in later years by the society of pioneers for several reasons: First, that he made claim to the honor at a very late date and that it had not been mentioned by any of the speakers at the pioneer meetings held in the early days when the truth or incorrectness of the statement could have been demonstrated by the evidence of those then living. Second, Gee was what was known as a squatter, that is, he had no manner of title to the land upon which he had built his cabin nor was there any way for him to attain the title other than by purchase which he had never done or attempted to do. If he had a wife he had never brought her to the cabin and, furthermore, only lived on the land a few months, having been ejected by the lawful owner of the land. Gee was a carpenter and claimed to have built the first house in the county with the exception of the trading post built by Godfroy in 1809. Those who claim Godfroy to have been the first settler lose sight of the fact that a man was construed as a settler only when he had bought the land and brought his family with the intention of becoming a permanent inhabitant of the locality. Godfroy did not intend to settle permanently in the county and actually left before any permanent settlement was undertaken. The claim of the advocates of Major Woodruff seems to stand if we reject that of Gee. Woodruff came to the county not only to make a home for himself and family but for the additional express purpose of laying out and developing a village. He built his cabin to which he brought his family in July, 1823, and his settlement took the name of "Woodruff's Grove" and became a well-known place in the early history of the county. Woodruff had induced several men to come to Michigan with him, among them being Oronte Grant, William Eiclor, Hiram Tuttle, Willard Hall, George Hall, a Mr. Stiles and Captain Fair. Grant and Woodruff had been living on farms near Sandusky, Ohio, but Grant had lost his farm through a defective title and Woodruff, having gotten hold of a little money, the two decided to go "west" and seek their fortunes and, with those named above, came to Washtenaw county. At the time these men settled in Washtenaw county there was, of course, no regular line of communication or travel with the outside world and Detroit was their nearest postoffice. The greater number of the settlers who came in the two years, 1823 and 1824, made the last stage of the wearisome journey from Detroit to Washtenaw, by means of boats up the Huron but some cut their way through woods and marshes. In the autumn of 1823 John Bryan and his wife arrived at the Grove, having driven their ox team through from Detroit. Writing of this trip Mrs. Bryan states: "The journey required four days. We arrived at night on the beautiful Huron, October 23, 1823. We got the privilege of staying in a log cabin with another family until we could build one of our own which we did later on and moved in on the last day of December. Eight weeks after this (February 27, 1824) my son, Alpha, was born. We called him Alpha Washtenaw-the latter name in honor of the county and the former on account of his having been the first white child born in the county." Her claim to being the 28 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY mother of the first white child born in the county is undisputed as there had been living in the county no white woman prior to this time unless Gabriel Godfroy had brought his wife with him from Detroit to his trading post on the Huron erected by him in 1809. Godfroy had several children but was a man of comparatively large means and was the proprietor of several trading posts scattered over the territory from Detroit to Vincennes which required his personal attention periodically, thus keeping him absent from the Washtenaw post much of the time and the probabilities are that he did not bring his family with him but left them at his home in Detroit. The families of Daniel Cross, George W. Noyes and Mr. Brainard joined the settlement at the Grove that fall and in the spring of 1824 we find eight log cabins composing the village. In describing these cabins one of the women who occupied one of them in 1824 says: "We reached our destination on the flats about a half a mile from the Grove where Mr. Tuttle (Hiram) had prepared a house for his family. When we were ready to land the men exchanged smiling glances and Mrs. Grant and Mrs. Tuttle began to cry, realizing all at once that this wilderness must now be their home. We two girls were too young and too light-hearted to sympathize with such feelings and gayly started to see the house, but soon returned not being able to find anything but a small building which we supposed to be a sheep pen. Our ignorance was quite excusable for the low, rough log pen did not resemble a human habitation. It taxed our ingenuity to prepare dinner on a fire of blazing logs built at one end of the room. There was no fireplace and no chimney, a hole was made in the roof, allowing the smoke to escape. That night I first heard the howling of wolves and was unable to sleep." Up to this time the settlers desiring to reach this vicinity were compelled to follow the Indian trails or paths blazed through the forest, by themselves, or to use the streams, when frozen in the winter and in summer using fiat-bottomed boats propelled by poles. On the maps of the early days the Huron is put down as a navigable stream and in those days flat-bottomed boats came up the river as far as Ypsilanti, although the larger ones rarely came beyond Rawsonville. In 1825 a road from Detroit to Chicago was surveyed, which ran through Ypsilanti and Saline and out of the county near the southwest corner of Bridgewater township. In the same year the Erie canal had been completed and the settlers began to seriously bestir themselves in the matter of roads as a means, not only for their own getting about but to attract new settlers, thus making their new homes much more desirable places to live and greatly increasing the value thereof. The first grist mill built in the county was by Major Woodruff. It was built of hewn logs on the Huron river a shirt distance below the settlement. It was about 30 feet long by 20 feet wide, and he was able to start it in the fall, much to the satisfaction of the settlers who had a hard time to prepare the corn fit for use before the mill was started. In the spring of the same year Amariah Rawson had completed his sawmill and placed it in operation, where Rawsonville now stands. A HISTORY OF WASIHTENAW COUNTY 29 landing place for boats had been made at this point the year before; roads were cut in many directions and the surrounding country was being rapidly settled. Prior to 1825 the settlers of Ypsilanti township had considered Woodruff's Grove to be the logical site for the principal village in that part of the country, but that year the hopes of its founders were blasted, when the United States commissioners laid out the road to run from Detroit to Chicago, leaving the Grove to the south and passing through the present site of the city of Ypsilanti. Up to this time, 1825, nearly all the land, now the site of that city, was owned by three men, John Stewart, Judge Woodward and William W. Harwood, and these men, immediately upon learning of the permanent location of the Chicago road, platted the village. A question whether this new village should be named Waterville, which was Stewart's choice, while Harwood advocated the name Palmyra. Finally the two agreed upon the name of Springfield and sent the plat to Detroit for recording, as Washtenaw was then a part of Wayne county, and the county seat was, of course, Detroit. But Judge Woodward had decided that Ypsilanti was to be the name of the new town, and his strong personality carried the day, and the plat of Ypsilanti was recorded in 1825. Jonathan G. Morton and Aretus Belden brought a stock of goods from Detroit in the spring of that year and opened the first store in Ypsilanti. While Woodruff and his friends were industrially engaged in putting the settlement in Ypsilanti township on sure footing, many settlers were going farther west. In 1824, the year after Woodruff Grove had been started, two men stopped on the banks of the Huron and made their camp for the night, both of whom were to play important parts in the settlement of the county, especially of that part in the immediate vicinity of their camp, and as they enjoyed the distinction of being the founders of the county seat it may be well to speak of them at this time. One of these two men was John Allen, a man of great force of character and undaunted enterprise. He was a Virginian by birth, coming to Washtenaw county when he was thirty years of age. He speculated largely in lands and at one time owned thousands of acres of land in western Michigan. The hard times of 1837 brought heavy financial burdens upon him and great losses, but at all times he worked for the ultimate development of Ann Arbor. In company with S. W. Dexter he was interested in the publication of the Western Emigrant, the first paper published in this county. His first wife, Mary Crawford Allen, belonged to an old family of Virginia. They were married in 1815, his wife living only four years. His second wife was Mrs. Ann J. McCue, daughter of Thomas Barry, of Londonderry, Ireland. John Allen left Ann Arbor in 1850, going to California to recuperate his fortune but lived only one year. The family of John Allen, at the time he settled in this county, all of whom he had brought with him, consisted of his father and mother, his wife, his brother, James T., two daughters and a son, James C. Allen. It is stated that John Allen's 30 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY father built a sawmill with old-fashioned machinery and cog-wheels made of maple wood which was the first mill erected west of Detroit in this part of the country. Of the second man, Elisha Walker Rumsey, who only lived three years after locating in Ann Arbor, dying in 1827, in the village he helped to found and where he is buried, not so much is known. He was buried in Forest Hill cemetery, his tombstone bearing the statement that he was the first settler in Ann Arbor. It is known that he came from New York state, probably Bethany. He at least left that town with Ann Sprague, with whom he lived as his wife, and started for Michigan. Rumsey met John Allen in Cleveland and the two men, finding that they were bound on the same mission, the establishment of a town in Michigan, joined interests and in February, 1824, they pitched their tent near a small stream, afterwards called Allen's Creek, not far from the Huron river. As Rumsey was accompanied by his wife, and the two men had been so impressed by the location and had decided to make the new town at that point, a log house was erected by them for Rumsey's use, Allen contenting himself for a time with the tent. This first house, a log building one story high, became known as the Washtenaw Coffee House, Mr. and Mrs. Rumsey being the host and hostess. Here were entertained land-lookers and prospective settlers. The building stood on what, at the present time, is the southwest corner of Huron and First streets. As soon as the first cabin was completed work was started on Allen's house, as he was anxious to have his family come from Virginia to join him. This cabin was built on the northwest corner of Huron and Main streets, where the Ann Arbor Savings bank is now located. For some unknown reason Allen painted his log house a bright red and the place became known as the "Bloody Corners," and was so designated for many years. While Allen and Rumsey were busily engaged in erecting their cabins many land-seekers stopped at the place, some for a few days, some permanently. Asa L. Smith, from New York state, with his wife and one-year-old child, arrived at the settlement, having come from Detroit on foot, carrying on their backs all they possessed. Smith was a carpenter and soon had his cabin, located on Huron street a little west of Allen's cabin, ready for occupancy and in this cabin the first white child in Ann Arbor was born. Smith was intensely enterprising and seems to have had ideas of his own as to how best to make his fortune. Before building his log cabin he constructed a small hut or wigwam of poles covered with bark peeled from trees for the protection, little as it was, of his wife and baby. He completed his first permanent cabin and moved into it in October, but, having an opportunity to sell it to good advantage he did so and immediately began the erection of another, but much better one. This, in turn, was sold and this policy was continued for several years during which time he had built and sold thirteen or fourteen houses all of which he and his family had occupied. When Allen had completed his cabin he sent back to Virginia for his family, consisting of his wife, Ann Isabella Allen, their daughters, Sarah A. and Elizabeth, and a son, James C., who was eight years old. With them came Mr. Allen's father and mother, James and Elizabeth Allen, HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 31 and also a brother, James T. Allen, aged twenty years, and Orville Barnes, a New England school teacher, who had joined the Allen party. Before their arrival a store had been started in the Allen block house, a log enclosure on one side of the cabin, by a man named John Hartford, the first store to be opened in Ann Arbor and remained the only one for a number of months, when another was opened by Cyrus Beckwith who had brought in a stock of goods from the east. Of those who had arrived in the summer preceding the coming of Mr. Allen's family, was George W. Noyes, who unfortunately met with a fatal accident in the village three years later. Noyes and his wife, natives of Massachusetts and New York, respectively, had left New York for Michigan in 1823, having heard of the opportunity to buy fine land at a dollar and a quarter per acre. They drove through to Detroit in a wagon over the unimproved roads of those days and when they had reached Detroit their total cash amounted to one dollar. At that time there were two points in Michigan attracting the attention of immigrants, Pontiac and Woodruff Grove in Washtenaw county. The latter place appealing most to Noyes, he sold his team and wagon and came on to the Grove in February. In June, satisfying himself that the settlement of Allen and Rumsey, further up the Huron, offered more advantages than the Grove, he removed to Ann Arbor. Noyes intended to erect a grist mill at once but did not succedd in his plans until 1826. He occupied a cabin on Main street near Ann, and his brother James, who is credited with building the third house in the village of Ann Arbor, lived near him on the same street. Cornelius Ousterhaut, a carpenter and joiner, that year built a frame house on Huron street near where the Cook House afterwards was built. Andrew Nowland, wife and seven children, came about the same time as George Noyes, securing 120 acres within the present limits of Ann Arbor. The two Nobles, Sylvanus and Nathaniel, had settled near the village, as did Calvin Chipman who afterwards moved to Manchester where he lived until his death. Mrs. Noble's account of her experience for the first few months in the county are well worth repeating here. She says: "I think it was October 31, 1824, that we started from Detroit with a yoke of oxen and a wagon, a few articles for cooking and a few such articles as we could not do without. After traveling all day we found ourselves ten miles from Detroit, at what is now Dearborn. Here we spent the night in a kind of a tavern, the only one west of the city of Detroit. Our lodging was the floor. The next day we set out as early as possible in hopes to get through the woods before dark, but night found us about half way through and we were compelled to camp out. The men built a large fire and prepared our supper. My sister and myself could assist but little so fatigued were we with walking and carrying our infants. There were fifteen in our party. It seemed a long, long night in the wilderness. We started again the next day as early as possible, the small children being the only ones to ride. Every few rods it would take two or three men to pry the wagon out of the mud, while those who walked were obliged to force their way over fallen 32 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY brush, timber, etc. At night we found ourselves three miles from Ypsilanti. We rode on to Woodruff Grove where there were four or five families. "The following day we left for Ann Arbor; we were delighted with the country before us. It was beautiful in its natural state and I have sometimes thought that cultivation has marred its beauty. Where Ypsilanti stands, there was but one building, an old trading post on the west side of the river. The situation was fine. There were scattered oaks and no underbrush. We passed two log cabins between Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor and about the middle of the afternoon we found ourselves at our journey's end-but what a prospect! There were in Ann Arbor some six or seven log huts occupied by as many as could crowd into them." The Nobles accepted the hospitality of Mr. Allen and found that the building had one ground floor room with a loft above, and in these two rooms twenty-one women and children and fourteen men found shelter. Cooking was done in the open air and the dresses of the women were frequently ablaze. They were compelled to live this way until the men got a log house raised and a roof on, but without door, floor or chimney. There was at that time no way of procuring boards, but Mr. Noble split slabs with his axe and so made a floor that would at least keep them off the ground. The Nobles remained in Ann Arbor but a year, believing that the place was unhealthy, removing about ten miles west of the town. In 1825 the Rev. Moses Clark, a Baptist minister, with his wife and seven children, settled in the township. The two Thayers, Nathan, the father, and Charles, the son, arrived in 1824. Outside the limits of the village many had settled. In the township of Ann Arbor twenty-three settlers had purchased land in the year 1824. Orrin White and his wfie, a sister of Charles Thayer, were the first. Mr. White afterwards became sheriff of the county, a member of the constitutional convention and a member of the state legislature. The family of George Rash settled near the Whites, about two miles east of the village. David E. Lord, M. D., built a house in the village during the summer. Dr. Lord was the first doctor to settle in the county. The majority of the settlers of 1824 in the village were young married people physically able to withstand the hardships in a new country which they faced. New arrivals were welcomed with cordiality and everything possible done to make them comfortable and satisfied and when Bethuel Farrand, who afterwards became the first judge of the probate court, arrived in the village of Ann Arbor with his family, Dr. Lord let them have two rooms in his cabin until one could be built for Farrand. The Farrands had come from Cayuga county, New York, intending to settle in Detroit but soon decided to come to Ann Arbor. In making the trip from Detroit to Ann Arbor the family had started in a flatbottomed boat up the Huron but became discouraged on account of the many obstructions in that river and finished the trip in a wagon and ox HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 33 team outfit, he having been assured that one ox team had made the trip successfully. A cabin was built for them on the corner of Main and William streets and thus the fifteenth family of the village was provided for. In 1826 James Kingsley, who afterwards became prominent as one of the foremost men of the county, Lorrin Mills, the first tailor to settle in Ann Arbor, and Hiram Welch settled in the village and Ann Arbor had become quite a village. In August of the same year George Noyes had finished his grist mill and the occasion of the raising of the frame had been a great event for the villagers. To them this mill was of great importance and convenience and it was well patronized by them, but Mr. Noyes enjoyed his prosperity but a few months as he was killed in November while assisting in the raising of Andrew Nowland's house on the east side of north State street near where the railroad now runs. Elnathan Botsford had settled, in 1825, near the present site of Geddes. John Geddes, coming from Chester county, Pennsylvania, and Robert Geddes, from Seneca, New York, settled near Botsford the same year. Amos and Mary Hicks, coming from Monroe county, New York, had settled about two miles east of Ann Arbor. At the same time Allen and Rumsey had located Ann Arbor, Benjamin Sutton, who had come into the country with those two men, located land five or six miles northeast of Ann Arbor, in what is now Northfield township. Sutton was followed into Northfield by Moses and William Allen, James Noyes, Nathaniel Brundige and a few others. In that part of the county, now forming Pittsfield township, fifteen settlers had purchased land in 1824. George Noyes, who lost his life two years later, was the first purchaser of land in the vicinity but he never lived on the land he had bought. Oliver Whitmore, after whom Whitmore lake was named, a native of New York state, and Samuel D. McDowell became settlers in the locality, and, while others had bought land in that township prior to the coming of these two men, no one had become a permanent settler before Whitmore. Mr. Whitmore's family consisted of himself, his wife and three sons, Oliver, Joseph and Walstin, and a daughter, Venus. Whitmore's cabin was first built and he and his family moved in and he thus became the first settler of what is now Pittsfield township. Whitmore and McDowell then built a cabin for the latter's family-his wife and daughter. The same year Ezra Maynard and family, Charles Anderson and his wife, John Anderson, Aaron Barney, John Hitchcock and family of eight, Thomas Alexander (who the next year removed to Webster township), Claudius Britton, Luke H. Whitmore with his family of seven, Joseph Parsons and Lewis Barr settled in what was called the Mallett creek district. The majority of these men had large families and for that reason, perhaps, immediate steps were taken to provide schools, and Pittsfield township is credited with having built the first school house in the county. In this log school house Harriet Parsons taught school. In 1825 a larger number settled in the township than the previous year. In 1824 Samuel W. Dexter built a cabin in what is now 34 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Webster township. Dexter played a tremendous part in the building up of southern Michigan and was a man of means and education. He was raised in Massachusetts and his father, Samuel Dexter, Sr., had at one time been secretary of state of the United States and also chief justice of the supreme court of his state. Dexter's ambition seems to have been to found a city and after his arrival in Detroit, in 1824, he spent several months going about the country west of that city prospecting for lands, and bought many hundreds of acres, over 3,500 in Washtenaw county alone, mostly in Scio, Webster and Dexter townships. The log house that he built in Webster was sold by him to Charles B. Taylor who, with his family, occupied it in the fall of 1824. In 1826 Thomas Alexander, Luther Boyden and Israel Arms became citizens of the township. John Dix, who was born in Littleton, Massachusetts, settled in Superior township in 1824. In 1826 Dix built a sawmill and grist mill and operated a store for the benefit of neighbors and thus started the village of Dixboro, one of the first in the county. Dix went to Texas in 1833. Elbridge Gee had settled in the township a short time before Dix came in and had built his shanty on section 33, but, not having made any arrangements for the purchase of the land from the government, he was simply a squatter and within a few months was ousted and his land taken by a permanent settler. Gee is credited with having built the first house in Superior township. In 1825 the two Brewers, John and his brother, Abram, Hiram Robinson, Hiram H. Tooker, Ebenezer Stacey, John Bramble, John Newell, Moor Spears, Robert Barr and Henry Kimmel settled in the township. In the same year Kimmel built a pearl-ash refinery giving employment, with his land clearing operations, to more than thirty men. The refinery proved to be quite remunerative, producing a ton of salaratus every ten days worth, at Detroit, $120 per ton. Eight or ten miles west of Ann Arbor, in what is now Lima township, a few settlers had located prior to 1826. In 1825 Samuel Clements, with his wife and children, came from Seneca, New York, and bought land on Mill creek where the St. Joseph Indian trail crossed that stream, and built their cabin. William C. Lemon had bought land in the township but did not move in until several years after the county was organized. Jerome Loomis became a permanent settler the same year, 1825. The next year Russell Parker, also a New Yorker, located in Lima township and when the township was organized became its first supervisor. In the northeast part of the, county, in that part now known as Salem township, there were several who located in 1825 and 1826. In 1825 the Dickersons, John and Joseph, of Seneca, New York, were the first and were soon followed by E. Pratt, Royal Wheelock, Aaron Blood and John Renwick. In 1826 Edmund Pratt and Jesse Peters located. Alexander Laverty did not go so far west as Samuel Clements, but in the same year settled in what is now Scio township as did Hiram Putnam. Neither of these two men remained long. At this time there were living in Scio township, Samuel W. Dexter, who six years later platted the village of Dexter; Dr. Cyril Nichols, who had come to Mich HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 35 igan from Vermont in 1826; A. D. Crane, Samuel W. Foster, who was a miller and afterwards built a mill at the village of Scio, and John A. Conway, who kept the only tavern in the county west of Ann Arbor at the time. In 1825 Nathaniel and Sylvanus Noble left Ann Arbor and secured locations in what is now Dexter township. Prior to the organization of the county there were but few settlers in that township, among them being Joseph Arnold, Rufus Crossman and Henry Warner. That part of the county now constituting Lodi township was settled by quite a number in 1825. Allen Williams was the first bona fide settler having bought his land and built his cabin in May, 1825. Hugh Christie had the year before bought land but never settled in the township. Following Williams, the same year, came Rufus Knight, Adolphus Spoor, Aaron Austin, Russell Briggs, Jesse Mechem, Smith Lapham, Samuel Camp, Orrin Howe and Daniel Allmendinger, and in the next year the settlement of the township was quite rapid. Leonard Miller was the first to settle in Saline township and built a large log house, part of which he used as a tavern as early as 1825. Daniel Cross also built a tavern the following year. Orrin Parsons and Chester Parsons, Alfred and Ashur Davis followed closely. Pioneers began settling in what is now York township in 1824. Among them were John Thayer, Alanson Snow, Oscar McClough, Samuel Bishop, William and Thomas Shaw, William Richards, John Parsons, Leander le Baron, Ephraim Judd, Josiah Hataway, Lorain Mills, Jacob Cook, Caleb and Lorain Moore, Daniel Carpenter, Sheffield Newton, Isaac Clark, Jesse Warner, Matthew Salisbury, Arthur Coe, Aaron Wheeler, James M. Kelsey, James Miller, Conrad Redner and Casey Starks, most of whom were from New York state. The county was now rapidly approaching the time when the number of citizens within its borders would be sufficient to entitle them to organize the county, and before the end of the year, 1826, it was found that the number was sufficient and in November the legislature passed an act, to take effect December 31, 1826, organizing the county. This act divided Washtenaw county into three townships, Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor and Dexter. Ypsilanti township as constituted under the act of organization included the four eastern townships later organized as Augusta, Salem, Superior and Ypsilanti. The Ann Arbor township included the present townships of Ann Arbor, Pittsfield and Northfield in the present boundaries of Washtenaw county and two townships in what is now Livingston county. Dexter township included the remaining thirty townships. These three large townships were from time to time subdivided, until the county attained its present limits comprising twenty townships. In 1829, eight were detached and added to Jackson county, the same year four were joined to Ingham and in 1833, eight to Livingston. In 1828, by an act of the legislative council, Panama township was organized to include a part of the original township of Ypsilanti and provided: "That from and after the passage of this act all that part of the township of Ypsilanti lying north, including townships numbered one and two south, range number seven east, in the county of Wash 36 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY. tenaw, be and the same is hereby set off as a township by the name of Panama." This new township comprised the present township of Salem and Superior. Three years later, 1831, the south half of Panama township was, by authority of the legislative council, organized as Superior township. The name of the new township was given it by Henry Kimmel as an expression of his belief in the superiority of the township in many ways over others. Bridgewater, until 1832, had been a part of Dexter, but in that year the legislative council authorized the formation of a new township and provided: "That all that part of the township of Dexter, in the county of Washtenaw, comprised in the United States survey of townships number four south in ranges three and four east shall be a township by the name of Hixon." In 1833 Hixon township was divided and that portion comprising township four south, in range four east, was organized into a separate township and called Bridgewater. Later, in 1836, Hixon lost its identity and became Manchester. Bridgewater was named after Bridgewater, Oneida county, New York. Saline township, organized in 1830, comprises all of four south, range five east. It was first settled by Leonard Miller who built his cabin in 1826 about one mile south of the present site of the village of Saline, near the salt spring from which the town was named, where he kept a public house. Orange Risdon purchased in this township, in 1824, but did not settle there for several years afterward. Northfield township as now constituted was organized in 1832 by an act of the legislative council. The organization of Scio township was authorized by an act of the territorial legislative council in 1833, and comprised township number two south, of range five east. In seeking the reason for naming this township Scio no other can be found than that many of the pioneers who settled in the vicinity came from Scio township, Allegan county, New York. A supervisor and clerk were duly elected but the records of the township, up to 1843, were destroyed by fire. Webster township was set off and made a separate township in 1833 by the council. It was named in honor of Daniel Webster. The township of Panama comprised the present townships of Salem and Superior until March 1833 when the following act was passed and approved: "Be it enacted by the legislative council of the territory of Michigan that all that part of the township of Panama, in the countyof Washtenaw, comprised in surveyed township number one, south of range seven east, to be a township by the name of Salem and the first town meeting shall be holden at the school house near Jacob E. Bullock in said township and that this act shall take effect and be in force on and after the first Monday in April next." At the election held at the fixed time, at what was then called Bullock's Corners, George Renwick was elected supervisor and Alexis Packard, clerk. Prior to 1836 all justices of the peace had been appointed by the governor but in that year the office was made elective. The name was chosen for the reason that HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 37 most of the settlers in the township at that time had come from Salem, New York. Lima township was organized at the same time as Sylvan township, 1834. Russell Parker was chosen supervisor, and John K. Bingham, clerk. The name was given to the township by Oliver L. Cooper who had immigrated to Washtenaw county from near the village of Lima, New York. Prior to the organization of Pittsfield township the territory comprising the township had been attached to three different townshipsAnn Arbor, Ypsilanti and Saline. On its organization, as now constituted, in 1834, it was called Pitt after a great deal of discussion by the interested settlers. Those wanting a short name won at the time but later on the name was changed to Pittsfield. In 1834 the settlers in the present township of Sylvan had become so numerous that it was thought best to organize a separate township. The act authorizing the organization of Sylvan township provided: "That all that part of Washtenaw county comprised in surveyed township two south, in range three east, be a township by the name of Sylvan." The meeting was held for the organization and Nathan Pierce was elected supervisor and Elisha Congdon, clerk. The name was selected by Mrs. Conkling, wife of Edmund E. Conkling, who acted as moderator at the meeting, on account of the sylvan beauty of the country. Lodi township was set off and organized as a separate township in 1834. It comprises surveyed township three south, in range five east. Freedom township was settled in the beginning by Americans, but in later years became almost entirely occupied by Germans. James W. Hill settled in the locality in 1831, built his log cabin on the southwest quarter of section 29. The same year Hugh Campbell, Jason Gillett, Robert and Matthew Myres and Jacob Haas arrived with their families and by 1833 there was but very little land left in the township that had not been located and immediately succeeding the date of its organization 2,000 acres of the wilderness had been turned into fertile fields. The petition of the settlers that that portion of the county known as township three south, in range four east, be a township by the name of Freedom was approved and an act passed by the legislative council in 1834 authorized its organization and upon its organization H. M. Griffin was elected supervisor and David C. Raymond, town clerk. As in the case of Freedom most of the land in Sharon township was taken sometime before the township was organized. David L. Sloat had built the first house and with his family moved into the new house in May, 1831. Several had bought lands in the township in 1830. The same year came Ira Annabel, Amos Bullard, John Bessy, M. Burk, David Cook, Edward Campbell, James H. Fellows, R. L. Fellows, Joseph 0. Gilbert, F. A. Gillett, Henry and Gilbert Row. The organization of the township was authorized in 1834 by an act of the council providing: "All that part of Washtenaw county comprised in surveyed township three south, in range three east, be a township by the name of Sharon." The naming of the several townships seemed always to 38 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY awaken quite a good deal of controversy. In the naming of this township three names were advocated: Sharon, Amenia and Romulus. Lewis Allen was elected supervisor and Benjamin F. Burnett, town clerk. On March 7, 1834, an act authorizing the organization of York township, was approved. The act provided: "That all that part comprised in surveyed township four south, in range six east, be a township by the name of York." Because most of the inhabitants were from New York state the township was named York. The settlement of York began in 1824, and within a few years every quarter of the district had an occupying proprietor. Augusta township was organized in 1836 and comprised all that part of Washtenaw county designated by the United States survey as township four south, in range seven east. Stephen Meade was the first supervisor and Aaron Childs, the first clerk. The township of Dexter was one of the three original townships into which the county was divided at its organization. It was named in honor of Samuel W. Dexter, the first county judge. The first settlement was made in 1825 by the two Nobles, Sylvanus and Nathaniel. In 1836 the township, as now constituted, was organized. Lyndon township, in the extreme northwest corner of the county was organized in 1836. The township comprised that part of Washtenaw county set forth in the United States survey as township one south, range three east and was given the name Lyndon by the act authorizing its organization. Horace Leek was the first supervisor and Jesse Rose, clerk. Manchester was set off as a separate township by an act of the legislative council, March 11, 1837, and comprised the surveyed township four south, range three east. James H. Fargo was chosen supervisor and William D. Clark, clerk. The growth of these townships in population was very rapid during the next twelve years, some townships having attained a population exceeding that which they could boast of five years later. It will be noted that the organization of all the townships in the county was by special act of the legislative council. The people of the Territory of Michigan had for years endeavored to have a law passed giving to the supervisors of the several counties the power to organize new townships but not until about 1850 was the method of creating or changing townships changed and the power given to the supervisors. WATI;-ER TOWERl" AT YPISILANT.I. NVASllTE;NA,,W (-O['NTY' COVETR'I HOUSE ON MVAIN STREETr, ANN ARBOR, IN 1850 CHAPTER III TOWNS AND CITIES ANN ARBOR HEN, in February, 1824, John Allen and Elisha Rumsey arrived at a spot now within the limits of the city of Ann Arbor, it took them but a short time to decide that there was the location they had been seeking. There they would build the town they had dreamed of. The search of the two was at an end and at the foot of a hill on the east side of a little creek, which afterwards was given the name of "Allen's Creek," the wearied pioneers put up their tent and camped for the night. Having agreed that the site of their new homes had been reached the two men set to work at once in the erection of a more permanent house than a tent. The building of a house in those days in that locality was an undertaking requiring a larger amount of muscular strength than necessary today and less mechanical knowledge. It was necessary, in the meantime, to build a temporary shelter for Mrs. Rumsey, who had accompanied her husband from New York, and an "arbor" was built with saplings and bark which became covered with a luxurious growth of vines. There can be no doubt but that both Allen and Rumsey had in mind a name for the future city but if they did no record is left of any such fact; and it is doubtful whether they thought, as they built the bower, that the name of the city was then in the making. The first log house was completed near the "arbor" and occupied by Rumsey and his wife. This log house stood on the south side of Huron street near what is now known as the southwest corner of Huron and First streets. This building was used by the Rumseys as a tavern for the accommodation of the many land-seekers who soon began to pass through the locality on their way further west, and became known as the "Washtenaw Coffee House." As soon as the first house was completed the two men began the erection of a larger one for the use of Allen and his family, a large one. This house was located at what is now the northwest corner of Huron and Main streets where the Ann Arbor Savings bank building now stands. The prime object of Allen and Rumsey was the sale of town lots and, their residences being completed, a surveyor was brought in to plat the town and lay out streets, etc. While this was being done Mr. Allen wrote for his wife and family to join him, telling her that his "hotel" was then accommodating twenty families. The picture she had formed in her mind of the "hotel" was far from accurate, and she found, on her arrival, that the house consisted of one large room on the ground floor, divided into apartments by blanket partitions, and a loft above. In the lower room the women slept and in the loft the men found quarters. The floors constituted their couches and it was with great difficulty that one could walk about without treading on another. The plat of the village having been completed it was sent to Detroit for 40 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY record, that city being at the time the seat of county government. The plat was recorded at the register's office, May 25, 1824. In the same year Ann Arbor became the county seat on condition that a city block be donated to the county for court house purposes and another for the erection of a jail. Mr. Allen donated the block bounded by Main, Ann, Huron and Fourth avenue. Rumsey donated the city block for the jail, on Liberty avenue, later occupied by a lumber yard. The number of settlers now passing through the county was very great and it was but natural that many of them were attracted to the new village. Prior to the filing of the plat of the village at Detroit the question of a name had to be determined. After the arrival of Mrs. Allen the two sole women residents for miles spent many pleasant days in the rude arbor made beautiful by nature and it had been, frequently called Ann's arbor. Fortunately the name Ann applied to the wives of both the town builders and the use of the name, as applied to any particular thing, could not be a cause of jealousy or ill-feeling. It was very easy to fall into the use of the name "Ann's arbor" when referring to the whereabouts of the two women during the days of the building of Allen's log house and when the name "Ann Arbor" was suggested as the name of the new village the idea was met with hearty approval by all concerned. The name was at first spelled "Ann Arbour," but at a later date the "u" was dropped. No one has ever regretted the adoption of the unusual name for a city. The sale of lots began at once and in 1825 the village had grown to a community containing nine houses; a description of the town, as it was in that year, taken from Chapman's History of the county written in 1881 at a time when many of those who had lived in the early days were still living, reads as follows: "Elisha W. Rumsey occupied the 'Washtenaw Coffee House' and John Allen, the block house before mentioned. A log house with a frame addition stood on the northeast corner of Main and Ann streets. Two small houses stood on the opposite side of Main street and were occupied by two brothers, James and George W. Noyes. A frame house stood on Huron street, near where the 'Cook House' was afterwards built, and was built and occupied by Cornelius Osterhaut, a carpenter and joiner. Another log house stood near the northeast corner of Main and Washington streets. Further south on Main street, up in the woods, was another log house, occupied by Alva Brown. Such was the appearance of Ann Arbor as viewed by Captain Charles Thayer in 1825." During the next two years the population of the village of Ann Arbor was augmented by the coming in of men of different trades and professions. A grist mill had been built, stores established, a school and church provided for, although in a very crude way. James Kingsley, who afterwards became judge of probate for Washtenaw county, member of the legislative council of the Territory of Michigan, trustee of the University of Michigan, member of both houses of the state legislature, regent of the university and mayor of Ann Arbor, was one of that band of noble, enterprising and educated men who came to the place at that time. Other lawyers settled in the village about the same time, among them Elisha Belcher, Gideon Wilcoxen and Marcus Lane. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 41 Physicians had settled in the village; the postoffice had been established in 1825 and before the end of the year, 1827, the village could claim to have 150 residents. Ann Arbor had become of such importance that in January of 1827 a county court was established in accordance with an act of the territorial council, and the first session held with Judge Samuel W. Dexter, presiding. There being no court house the court was held in a private dwelling and it is amusing to remember that the first man indicted was the owner of the house for selling liquor without a license! He was acquitted, however, very speedily. The newness of their surroundings had not caused the settlers to neglect the usual celebration of the birthday of the nation and the first Fourth of July was duly remembered by the villagers as the following letter, written by a resident of the village at the time, will show: "On Monday, July 4, 1825, we are going to celebrate the first Independence day in Ann Arbor. It is to be celebrated in grand style, and I am to take the lead in the public exercises. Four of your sisters are making preparations for a grand ball at Washtenaw Hotel (no doubt Washtenaw Coffee House is meant) and John and the younger girls are as much engaged to see what will be done as any one of them." This was written by Ezra Maynard to his son in Whitesboro, New York, and his wife added a postscript: "The family returned all tired out-had fine times; everything conducted in Massachusetts and New York style. Procession, prayer, reading the declaration, oration and elegant dinner; upward of a hundred people sat down to eat," etc. Ezra, himself, could not resist the temptation to add his version of the grand success: "The fiftieth anniversary of independence was celebrated in as solemn and becoming a manner as I ever saw it anywhere. More than 300 dined at John Allen's. Exercises on the grounds, prayers by Dr. Maynard (the writer of the letter), Declaration of Independence by Col. James Allen, oration by Samuel Dexter, Esq., together with a band of music." The postoffice had been established in 1825 and John Allen served as the first postmaster. There being no regular roads at the time the man who carried the mail from Detroit to Ann Arbor was compelled to follow the trails made by the Indians, and as there were no bridges over the streams, which often were greatly swollen by rains, the trip, occupying three days, was dangerous as well as tiresome. For this work the mail carrier (Bethuel Farrand was the first one), received one hundred dollars per year. John Harford was the first to venture in the merchandise business in Ann Arbor and opened his store in 1824. Shortly afterwards a store was started by David and Jonathan Ely and one by Cyrus Beckwith. In 1827 Edward established his general store on the east side of Main street near Washington. In 1826 George Noyes had completed his grist mill on the site where the city mills were built. People came from the farms about Ann Arbor, from Dexter township, from Lodi township, from Pittsfield township, Saline and Ypsilanti townships to assist at the raising of the frame. In the same year Henry Welch opened his store at the southwest corner of Main and Huron and became one of the most prominent and successful merchants of Ann Arbor. Three new taverns had been started as rivals to the 42 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY "Washtenaw Coffee House," operated by Mr. and Mrs. Rumsey. Andrew Nowland established his tavern at the north end of Main street where the railroad now crosses that thoroughfare. Ira W. Bird had established himself in the business on the southeast corner of Main and Huron, and directly opposite was Samuel Camp's tavern on the southwest corner of Main and Huron. In the same year, 1827, Mr. Rumsey died and Oliver Whitmore succeeded him as landlord of the Washtenaw Coffee House. That year the citizens were treated to an Indian scare. While the Indians had lost all title to the lands of which Washtenaw formed a part they were occasional visitors, at this time, to the village, coming in small bands for the purpose of trading with the merchants, exchanging berries, venison, fur and maple sugar for dry goods and whisky. On this occasion Ann Arbor was visited by a band of several hundred Indians who nearly surrounded the village with their camps. Rumors were just as efficacious those pioneer days as today and it was an anxious time for villagers for rumors had preceded the coming of the Indians that they were on the warpath and, of course, intended to burn the village and scalp the inhabitants. Great was the relief when, on the next day, the Indians quietly broke camp and proceeded on their way. The reason for such a number to be assembled at one time was that two or three bands, some going and some returning on the trip to Canada to receive their "blood money" from the English for services rendered in aiding the English against the Americans in the war of 1812, had chanced to meet at Ann Arbor and camped to "visit." Social functions were not neglected during the first few years of the village and grand balls were frequently given at one or the other of the taverns. The first was in the winter of 1824-25 which was attended by residents of other villages. The music was furnished by a single "fiddle." In 1827 Ann Arbor's first band was organized, the music of which was greatly enjoyed by the villagers. Another mail route had been established, connecting Ann Arbor with Jackson, and the mail was carried in the same manner as that to and from Detroit, on foot. John Thompson was the first carrier and he tells of his experience as a mail carrier: "I carried the first United States mail from Ann Arbor to Jackson. The mail was small then, consisting of about six letters, which I carried in my hat. The postage was twenty-five cents per letter. (Mr. Thompson does not explain that the postage those days depended upon the weight of the letter and the distance of its destination. Twenty-five cents was the minimum, but more was charged for certain weights and distances. Note by the writer.) I went once a week with the mail for three months, always on foot and followed the Indian trail. The journey took four days for which I received fifty cents per day. There were no bridges then and I was obliged to ford the creeks the best way I could. The walk was a long forty miles, some parts of it pleasant to recall; not so much so, however, the howling of the wolves nearby, and I a long mile from a tavern. I used to see a great many deer roaming at their will over the oak openings. After a while the mail was carried in a lumber wagon." Thompson had come to Ann Arbor a short time before becoming a mail carrier and afterwards opened a store in the HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 43 village. To procure his stock of goods for this store, he says: "I had to go to Detroit for supplies with an ox team, which, in those days, took nearly one week to accomplish. I purchased one barrel of apples, one box of candies (the first one ever brought to Ann Arbor for sale), and $25 worth of groceries, which was to my mind, quite an outfit." From their little means, needed so much to supply daily wants and to make improvements, these first good people of Ann Arbor donated generously and willingly toward erecting and then supporting churches of the different denominations. The Rev. Moses Clark, a Baptist minister, had settled in the vicinity and it was he who preached the first sermon to the villagers, in the summer of the first year of the existence of the village. The Baptist church, however, was not organized until two years later. The first organization was that of the Presbyterians when, in the month of August, 1826, the Rev. Noah M. Wells, of Detroit, came to Ann Arbor for the purpose of officiating on that occasion. The names of those who composed the organization are well worth recording: James Allen, Elizabeth Allen, Roswell Parsons, Agnes Parsons, Harriet Parsons, Israel Branch, Mercy Branch, Simeon Mills, Clarissa Mills, Bethuel Farrand (the first mail carrier and afterwards first judge of the probate court in the county), Deborah Farrand, Richard Lord, Mrs. Monroe, Temperance Roberts, Ann Isabella Allen, Phoebe Whitmore and Fanny Camp. Services were held for a few months in the log school house which stood on the northwest corner of Main and Ann streets but that, being too small, was given up and the ballroom of a tavern, standing on the corner of Main and Huron streets, was used. Two or three months after Mr. Clark had preached the first sermon a Methodist minister, the Rev. John A. Baughman, preached at the home of John Allen. After this visit of the Methodist minister, reading meetings were held as a substitute for the regular sermons until in July, 1827, when an organization was formed by Calvin Smith, Harvey Kinney, Eber White, Hannah Brown and Rebecca Brown. The local organization, not sufficiently strong to support a minister exclusively to devote his entire time to them, was made a part of the Monroe district for the first six months, during which period the Rev. George W. Walker preached at irregular times. The next six months the church was attached to the Detroit district, and then, when the Huron district was organized, Ann Arbor was made a part. In 1827 the circuit was arranged as to permit preaching at Ann Arbor every other week and this arrangement was carried out for six years. Moses Clerk, who had preached the first sermon as representative of the Baptist church, as stated, lived upon, and in fact, was the first settler on the land which afterwards became known as the Botsford farm located on the north bank of the Huron river three and a half miles below the village, was 'the instigator of a meeting held at his house in February, 1827, for the purpose of organizing a Baptist church. Referring to the records of the Baptist church in Farmington, by whose appointment this meeting had been held we read: "It was also voted by the Farmington church to hold covenant meetings in Ann Arbor regularly from that time, and it is not known that this peculiar meeting of the Baptists has ever failed 44 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY of observance here since that date." For the purpose of forming the new church in Ann Arbor, in May, 1828, the Farmington church "dismissed" several of its members who lived in this vicinity. In June of the same year a council of the church, embracing delegates from the five churches at the time existing in the territory, namely, Pontiac, Stony Creek, Troy, Farmington and Detroit, met and the recognition of the organization was performed. As the meeting at which the organization of the new church took place at a point nearly midway between Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, that is on the farm of Moses Clark, it is probable that the new society felt that they would receive the greater amount of support from the latter village, at least they adopted the name of that village and called the new church the Ypsilanti church. The name was retained only for three or four years, when the place of holding meetings was changed to the village of Ann Arbor and that name assumed. The names of the constituent members when first organized are: Moses Clark, who was the pastor; Lucy and Sally Clark, Phoebe Hiscock, who had been received to membership at the meeting in February, 1827; Benjamin Slocum, Elizabeth and Nancy Brown and Charles Stewart. In the fall of 1827 a meeting of Episcopalians was held in Ann Arbor for the purpose of organizing a church and the following persons took part: Elisha Belcher, the attorney; Henry Rumsey, the brother of Elisha Walker Rumsey, one of the founders of the village; Marcus Lane, another attorney; Andrew Cornish, Samuel Denton and Edward Clark. These were assisted by the Rev. Cadlo, of Detroit, who held services until the Rev. Silas Freeman took charge. A small building on Washington street, east of Fifth, was used for several years. Afterwards a brick school house located on the original jail lot was used until a lot was purchased on Division street and a frame church building could be erected. While there were no "public schools" in Ann Arbor before 1830, the settlers allowed little time to elapse after their arrival in the new settlement before they took steps for providing means of education for the children. A small log building in which there were a few rough benches and a lone chair, was used in 1825 for school purposes. This building was located on the site of the Duffy store which afterwards took its place. A Miss Monroe was employed and paid by the villagers as the teacher. She was followed the next year by Harriet G. Parsons who continued to teach in this "private" school until the public schools became organized three or four years later. In 1829 a building was erected, by subscription, for school and church purposes, on the property owned by the county and known as the jail lot. The following year the board of supervisors added a second story to this building and thus provided the county with a place in which to hold court. It was almost impossible, at this period, for a dozen or more men to live near one another without the formation of a military company. Soon after the arrival of Allen and Rumsey a sufficient number of men HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 45 had located in the village to inspire them with the feeling that such an organization was necessary to the welfare and safety of the territory, county and village and one was organized with Elisha Rumsey as captain. But it was not until 1829 that regularly drilled and equipped company was organized. This is treated of in the chapter on military matters. As early as 1826 a Masonic Lodge was instituted in Ann Arbor, but unfortunately a feeling antagonistic to that organization had developed over the entire country, a feeling that found its way to the pioneer village, which became so strong and so bitter that, after two or three years it was thought best to surrender the charter at Ann Arbor and wait until people came to their senses and could judge calmly and intelligently. It was not until nearly twenty years had rolled by that Ann Arbor again became the home of a Masonic Lodge, or, in fact, the home of any secret organization. While today the question of temperance is supposed to have been settled, or in its last stages of settlement, it is of interest to note the feeling of many of the pioneers concerning the matter. During the period of which we are now writing, from 1824 to 1829, a tremendous temperance movement had spread over the United States, every hamlet, village and city being affected by the great enthusiasm. The Rev. Page, the first minister of the Presbyterian church, had become greatly enthusiastic in the cause and conceived the idea of forming, in Ann Arbor, a temperance society and in pursuance of his plans, called a meeting at his church at which a dozen people of the village responded. At this meeting, held in 1828 or 1829, an organization was perfected and the Ann Arbor "Temperance Society" was born. The early settlers of Ann Arbor were, as a rule, the peers of the inhabitants of any locality on earth but, in common with every locality, the village had its proportion of men not up to standard. Then, too, at the time and for many subsequent years, in all localities it was the custom of the majority of men to indulge in the use, to a greater or lesser degree, of intoxicating liquors. No barn raising in this or any other locality was complete without the free dispensing of whisky or other strong drink. In fact, from many of the influential men of the day, when suggestion was offered that the offending liquors be omitted and the frames raised by the strong arms of the men without its invigorating assistance, the almost universal reply was, "it can't be did." Such was the opposition met with that the efforts of the Temperance Society in Ann Arbor were confined almost entirely to the obtaining of signatures to "pledges" prohibiting only the use of alcoholic liquors and not requiring the giving up of light wines, beer and cider. The effect on the community was very noticeable and no doubt many were saved from becoming drunkards. The temperance question worried the villagers little more than this for many years, and the "little brown jug" which had always been brought forth as affording an enjoyment in no otherwise obtainable, no visitor being permitted to leave without receiving an invitation to indulge and partake of its contents, freely dispensed to old and young; a thing of first importance where men were 46 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY congregated at log-rollings, barn-raisings, corn-huskings, elections and, on some occasions, at funerals, lost somewhat of its importance but was not entirely done away with. It is very doubtful if the population and conditions of the village in 1829 justified the establishment of a newspaper but Samuel W. Dexter believed the time ripe for such an enterprise and therefore started the "Emigrant." The same year Ann Arbor began its career as a manufacturing town, an indication of its future prosperity. G. and C. Prusica became the pioneers of Ann Arbor manufacturing, other than flour, when in Nov. 18, 1829, they started their tannery. It was this year the "Frontier Guards" was organized, with Martin Davis as captain and James Kingsley and Edward Clark, first and second lieutenants. This organization existed for five years. This year was marked by the arrival of the first "stage" over the route between Detroit and Ann Arbor which continued to make trips between those two places three times a week. From the copy of the first edition of the "Emigrant" we learn that, undismayed by the efforts of the temperance movement, Messrs. Hawley and Nash had begun the operation of a distillery in the village and in an advertisement in that edition "Hawley, Nash & Company begged to inform the public that they have erected a distillery in the vicinity of Ann Arbor, which will be in operation by the first of December next, where they will keep constantly on hand a superior quality of rectified whisky which they will sell as low as can be purchased in the territory, by the gallon or barrel, for cash. Whisky exchanged for grain on liberal terms. From long experience and strict attention to business they hope to merit a share of the public patronage." New settlers continued to locate at Ann Arbor and the place had become of considerable importance in 1833 and of such size as to warrant incorporation as a village. Through the efforts of those most interested an act was passed by the legislative council, April 23, 1833, providing for such incorporation. The limits of the village, as defined by the act, were as follows: "All that part of the township of Ann Arbor comprised within the limits of the village plat laid out and recorded by the proprietors, John Allen and Elisha W. Rumsey." At the ensuing election, held for the purpose of selecting a president and other village officers, fifty-five votes were cast, which would indicate a population of more than 300 persons. John Allen was elected president and at the first meeting of the village trustees, at which were present Edward Mundy, Chauncey S. Goodrich, David Page, Anson Brown, E. W. Morgan and Chandler Carter, trustees, and John Allen as presiding officer, provision was made for the election of a treasurer, marshal and two assessors annually. The next year another meeting of the trustees was held and $300 was voted to meet the expenses of the village for the coming year. Of this sum $200 was to be assessed to and paid by the west side of the Huron river, and the balance, $100, the east side should supply. It is very probable that the pioneers of those days believed in the "curfew" for we find in the records of the meetings of the trustees a bill allowed to meet the expense of one dollar for ringing the bell of the Presbyterian meeting house for the ensuing year. It is said by those HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 47 who lived in the village at the time, and who have long ago passed away, that this bell was rung at noon and at 9 o'clock at night. The village council was very enthusiastic concerning the business of the village for a few years but they eventually lost interest and it became a difficult matter to obtain a quorum. Michigan and Washtenaw county were making rapid strides in advancement and it was but natural that the leading and enterprising spirits of the village should become interested in the public welfare. The matter of transportation was a serious one in all parts of the territory and the villages fretted under the restraint put upon them by reason of the miserable condition of the roads, then the only means of communication from one point to another. It is a peculiar thing that the citizens of Michigan should take active steps for the building of railroads long before some of the older settled states woke up to their advantages. In 1831 the railroad at the time known as the Detroit & St. Joseph was chartered and was to run through the villages of Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor and Dexter and on through the county. A meeting was held at Ann Arbor, September 3, 1834, to assist in or encourage the building of this road; $400 or more was raised at that meeting to help pay the expense of a survey from Detroit to Lake Michigan. Another meeting was held in December of the same year but nothing was done with the exception of passing resolutions for the presentation of a petition to congress asking for government aid in constructing the proposed road. Congress did eventually permit army engineers to do the surveying. In 1835, at a meeting held in the village, a committee was appointed for the purpose of obtaining subscriptions to stock of the railroad company but to the subscriptions obtained by the committee was attached a number of conditions never complied with by the management of the road. These conditions were: 1. That a reasonable number of the officers of said company shall be located at the village of Ann Arbor, or vicinity. 2. That the road shall be commenced at the village of Ann Arbor the same time as at Detroit, and the amount of the subscriptions here obtained to be expended in the construction of the road from Ann Arbor east. About this time Michigan, through an ill-advised banking law authorizing the establishment of a bank on a basis requiring only a small per cent of the capital to be represented by actual specie and the redemption of the banks bills, which they were permitted to issue, were secured by mortgages on real estate. The result was a great discredit to Michigan and fortunately only one was started in Ann Arbor, known as Miller's bank of Washtenaw, of which Charles Thayer was the president. The bank was located on the corner of Brown and Broadway and to the credit of the village and its banker it is said that "it is believed that it was the only one of the whole batch (so organized) in Michigan that was conducted honestly and paid all its indebtedness." When in 1833 the village had been incorporated it was the county seat of a county having a population of about 4,000 persons, mostly Americans. The inhabitants were industrious and the location was ideal for a town and to it came people who were willing to wait the course of 48 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY events for the realization of their ambitions. At the time there were in the county twelve mercantile establishments, three distilleries, one fanning mill factory, one pail factory, one gunsmith, one wagon maker, five flouring mills, thirteen sawmills and a machine for carding and dressing wool and men coming into the county viewed with envy the prospective prosperity of its towns. The establishment of the banks referred to above afforded these men the opportunity for speculation and the result was frightful and fatal to many. Rival cities sprang up as fast as surveyors could plat them. Farmers left their fields untilled, the mechanic his shop, merchants the stores, lawyers their offices, and plunged into quick fortunemaking. Washtenaw did not escape this frenzy of speculation and had within its own borders many towns and cities projected but never realized. In many of these paper villages lots were eventually sold for not enough to pay the recorder's fee not to mention the surveyor and lithographer. In the latter part of this orgy of speculation three men, Phillip Brigham, Alonzo Platt and Charles Tull, laid out a town a short distance above the village of Ann Arbor that was to deprive the latter of all claims to existence. Today there is no vestage of that city which was to have been known as Barton. Another, to be called Sharon, located in Sharon township, the year before had been laid out and, along magnificent lines Saratoga of Michigan, on Portage lake in Dexter township, was platted. G. R. Lillibridge was the founder and according to his handsome and expensive lithographs splendid steamers plied back and forth on the waters of the lake. The same year George Byrns platted the town of Windham on Iron lake in Manchester township, and in 1835 Charles and Sophronia Hartford platted the town of Hartford in Lima township which they hoped would eclipse all others. Fine houses were built on the sites of the "paper towns," expensive furniture put into them and men lived in fine style. The bubble burst and ninety-nine per cent of the speculators were left without a dollar. In the meantime Ann Arbor had gone on in a serene and conservative way, adding from time to time, substantial industries and commercial enterprises and by 1839 the long hoped for railroad entered the village. The event was the occasion of a grand celebration and the Western Emigrant, in its edition of October 23, 1839, says: "Last Thursday was a proud and happy day for Ann Arbor. Although the people of Michigan had great cause to complain of the outrageous inefficiency of those heretofore intrusted with the building of this road and of the procrastination of the event which thousands had an opportunity of celebrating in an appropriate manner, yet all party feeling was now checked by common consent, and all were disposed to forget the delay in the general rejoicing and conviviality of the occasion. A more lovely day never dawned. Our Indian summer, as was anticipated, reigned in all its softness and deliciousness. "All was gaiety and delight. People came from all quarters to witness the arrival of the cars for the first time at our new and beautiful HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 49 depot, and to aid our citizens in the reception and entertainment of their civil and military guests. At noon the cars arrived bringing upward of a thousand visitors from Detroit. They were met at the depot by the committee of arrangements who welcomed them through the Hon. James Kingsley, in a brief but appropriate speech. "George C. Bates, Esq., on behalf of the common council of Detroit, made a felicitous reply after which the procession formed and marched through the principal streets to the court house square, where a splendid banquet had been prepared by Messrs. Clark and Petty of the Exchange. Here the Brady Guards pitched their tents and a general interchange of good feeling between them and the Washtenaw Guards followed. "A detachment of the Pittsfield volunteer corps came in, and we should infer from their soldier-like appearance that the whole company would have been, as they were, an acquisition to the pageantry of the day. The dinner went off well, nothwithstanding a burning noon-day sun kept many from partaking. After the cloth was removed, a great many enthusiastic toasts were drank, among which were the following: 'The first train from the city of Detroit-it brings with it a long train of pleasing reflections.' The others were: 'The State of Michigan,' 'Railroads and Canals,' 'The Central Railroad,' 'Railroads and Steam Power,' 'The City of Detroit and the Village of Ann Arbor,' 'The University of Michigan,' 'The West,' 'The Valley of the Huron,' 'Woman,' 'City of Detroit,' 'The Village of Ann Arbor.'" The paper continues: "The company broke up about three o'clock, and the citizens of Detroit, generally, returned in the cars that afternoon, gratified with their visit." The settlers who located in the village the first four or five years were mostly Americans and it was not before 1830 that the first Germans came into the locality. It was not long before these new citizens had formed a church of their own with a minister from the old country in charge. At the beginning, Mr. F. Schmid, the minister, preached at the court house and in the old Presbyterian church building. A small frame building was built two miles west of the court house on ground given by Mr. Almendinger, later used for a cemetery. In 1844 a new church edifice was erected and enlarged in 1863. This was the Evangelical Lutheran Society. Mr. Schmid made a wonderful record in that he remained with this church for a period of thirty-eight years, resigning in 1871 on account of failing health. In 1839 Father Cullen came to Ann Arbor and held services for some time in private houses, and afterwards in a building on Washington street. The congregation at that time was small but soon grew very rapidly. While Father Cullen was the first resident priest located at Ann Arbor, Father Kelly, who resided at Northfield, had administered to the spiritual needs of the few Catholics in the village from about 1830 to 1835 and from the latter date until Father Cullen's arrival they were administered to by Father Morrissy, also residing at Northfield. Father Cullen remained as pastor of the church at Ann Arbor until 1862, the year of his death. In 1836 the villagers determined that a fire department was necessary and an ordinance was passed providing for its organization. The organization 50 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY was compelled to content itself with a hand engine, and hook and ladder wagon for several years. A second-hand engine was then procured and, with the older outfit, constituted the town's fire-fighting force until 1879, when the steam fire engine was purchased. Ann Arbor was incorporated as a city in 1851. At the time of the incorporation, and in fact, from almost the first year of its existence there were two villages, one known as.the "Lower" town and the other as the "Upper" town. In the early days there was much contention as to which should be the location of the postoffice. Upon its incorporation the city was divided into four wards and after ten years the "Lower" town was taken into the city as the fifth ward. In 1867 the fifth ward was divided and two wards, the fifth and the sixth resulted. The wards so remained until 1895 when the fifth and sixth were divided and three wards made of the two, and the new ward numbered seven. The charter of 1851 was not satisfactory in several respects and in 1889 a new charter was adopted. Prior to that time there had been no uniformity in the collection or assessing of taxes and under the new charter, for the first time, the city was assessed as a whole. The mayor, prior to 1889, was merely an alderman at large, with no veto power. By the new charter he was made an executive officer and a president of the council was elected by the people as an alderman at large, and a board of public works organized. The growth of Ann Arbor has been consistent and healthy, the city keeping pace with that growth by building splendid streets, well-lighted and clean, an up-to-date sewer system and a fine fire department. The old fire department which has been herein before spoken of, has given way to a modern motorized department. In 1915 horses were dispensed with and today the department has two pump trucks, one of 750 gallons and the other of 1,000 gallons capacity per minute; two service trucks, one hook and ladder truck and a chief's car, all located in the central station, built in 1882, at the corner of Huron and Fifth avenue. Thirty men are employed on the two platoon system. In 1906 the city sold $30,000 in bonds and a new city hall was erected. The growth of the city is shown more fully in special articles. Important in the development of the city has been the authorization of the construction of the drainage ditch which will permanently eliminate the dangers of floods during the spring freshets in the region along the course of Allen's creek. Not only is the move important from the standpoint that it will materially increase property values in that vicinity, but it is also notable in that a special bill was required of the state legislature due to the fact that state grounds were in the territory to be affected by the construction of the proposed ditch. According to the state law, the construction of a drainage ditch is assessed against the country affected. Thus the city of Ann Arbor, the portions of the county traversed by the creek, and the grounds of the University of Michigan would be benefitted and must therefore bear their proportionate shares of the undertaking. The constitution of the state of Michigan, however, expressly states that no state property shall ( A ST1 01F PA -- kEA NT AT VPSILANri ItJt IX \ 192) LANVVERS('L~I AND) L)ORM"IT'fORY' IjNIVIERSI [V OF MNIChIGI-'AN HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 51 be taxed. For the city and county to bear the expense of the improvement which would also affect the university, seemed too much to the proponents of the ditch scheme. A bill calling for the state to bear its share of the expense was accordingly drawn up and submitted to Charles A. Sink, representative from this district in the legislature, just as the session was drawing to a close in the spring of 1925. Sink secured the passage of the bill through the house, but as the necessary five days was lacking in which to get the bill through the senate, Sink had his bill attached as an amendment to the Rockwell drainage bill which also affected the general drainage law of the state. In this way, the senate passed the provision concerning the Ann Arbor ditch, and the house, which has previously passed both bills, then accepted the Rockwell bill with the amendment which they had before passed as a separate bill. By this bill, the state, for the University of Michigan, paid approximately $85,000 of the total assessment of $700,000, and the city and portions of the county were assessed approximately $615,000. The bill authorized the state commissioner of agriculture to determine whether or not the state grounds will be benefitted by the construction of the ditch, which, if found true, will cause the state to pay its part. Approximately 3,200 acres of land will be drained by this ditch, about three-quarters of which is within the city limits of Ann Arbor. The drain will be about two miles long when it is completed. From the river to Miller avenue it will be fourteen feet wide and eight feet, eight inches deep; from Huron street to Miller avenue it will be the same width but will be six inches shallower; from Huron to Hill street it will be ten feet wide by six feet deep; from Hill to Hoover avenue it will be ten feet wide by five feet, six inches deep, and from Hoover avenue to the upper end of the drain, it will be five feet deep. The contracts were let and the work begun as soon as possible, and the construction had been carried on so rapidly that July 1, 1926, has been set as the tentative date for the completion of the drainage ditch. YPSILANTI It has been noted in foregoing pages that three Frenchmen, Godfroy, Pepin and Le Chambre, came to this region and established a trading post on the banks of the Huron, where now stands the enterprising city of Ypsilanti, purchasing nearly 2,500 acres of land, but had left the country with the going of the Indian and before the arrival of the permanent white settler. Gabriel Godfroy, a man of some means, was the leading spirit of this association of the three Frenchmen, and in 1814 had bought the land of one of his associates and ten years later sold it to Henry I. Hunt, who, the same year, sold to John Stewart. The next year, 1825, Godfroy sold his original parcel of land to Judge Augustus B. Woodward. The preceding year Stewart had platted a village on the tract of land purchased from Hunt. In 1825 Woodward and William W. Harwood, the latter having purchased the land of Eli Kellogg, joined with Stewart and made a plat 52 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY of a village, that part belonging to Woodward and Stewart being on the west and that of Harwood on the east. The claim of the third Frenchman was purchased by Andrew McKinstry in 1830. It was a matter of vast importance to prospective founders of villages in those days of no roads, to be able to judge where the future roads would be built, that were being contemplated by the national government. It is possible that one or more of the founders of Ypsilanti had advance information as to the probable location of the proposed wagon road to be built between Detroit and Lake Michigan. Those locating at Major Woodward's settlement, Woodruff Grove, a short distance down the river had no doubt but that it would pass through their village but, as stated elsewhere, their hopes were ruined when the United States commissioner chose a different route and reached the village of Ypsilanti without passing through Woodruff Grove. Three names were suggested as being suitable for the newly-platted village: Waterville by Stewart, Palmyra by Harwood, but Woodward would have neither, having fully made up his mind that he would honor the Greek hero, who was much in evidence at the time, and name the village Ypsilanti. And such it was recorded that year of 1825. An anonymous writer of a very interesting article as to the origin of the name given the new village in part says: "Aside from the sentiment connected with the name we may congratulate ourselves that its five consonants will always hinder it from being a popular name. While Pennsylvania rejoices in the possession of five Danvilles, the whole United States has but one Ypsilanti." From the Detroit Tribune issue of more than sixty years ago is culled an interesting article relating to the spelling of the name. In speaking of the great difficulty experienced by the postal clerk in deciphering addresses on letters passing through the postoffice the article says: "As an example we give the following list of the various methods in which the word 'Ypsilanti' has been spelled upon the envelopes of letters passing through our postoffice during the past six months: Yplanthropl, Epsolynny, ipsalantie, Hypsisalianty, Ipsileindi, Epcilantia, ipsloty, yulomtice, Ypseylantia, Eplonsay, IPislanta, Yps-i Landtine, Upsylanti, Ibcelandie, Gypsslante, Ippslanty, Epoilante, Ippsylanta, Yplante, Iipslinta, Ipsalantia, Ippes Landing, Yeplanpha, Whipcalentia, Ipsolanty, Epcilanti, Clypsalanta, Ipbseliny, Eipsly-Lanty, Upslantei, Ypt-zy-luntia, Hypslenti, Ipcliontia, Hypsilanteau, Hypsilantheu, E. Ypcaluntia, eypsssillianty, Ipsillanti, Ypslnaty, ieplantice, Eyspiallanti, Yipshulanty, Wipsilanti, Ibselandie, Ypssyllanti, Apsalanta, Iepcilunta, Ipseland, ABsa Lanty, Lipslantic, Ypisylvania, Ebsalanda, Hipsalantie, Gyselantio, Ipsciluntun, Iscpylantia, Ipsylanta, Eybsylandy, W. Y. Pslanty, Ippssalantia, IPseylunty, Fypislantia, Hipslyanty, Wyphsorlanter. The same paper goes on to say that no one can appreciate the labor of making up mails until he understands the great difficulty of determining from the envelopes the destination of the enclosure. Foreign correspondents especially distort the names of American postoffices. Time has greatly changed the condition and the citizens would not exchange the name for another. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 53 The location of the government road through Ypsilanti had decided the question as to which of the two locations, Ypsilanti or Woodruff Grove was to be the town, and early the following year, 1826, some of the settlers at the latter place removed to the former. David Ely and Jonathan T. Ely, merchants at Woodruff Grove, removed to Ypsilanti. However they did not remain long and it can be said that Jonathan G. Morton and Erastus Belden were the first merchants of Ypsilanti. They were not only storekeepers but blacksmiths as well. The completion of the Erie canal began to show the effects of increased immigration. Men, with their families and such personal property as would be of the most value to them in a new settlement and most easily transported, came by canal boat through the state of New York to Buffalo, shipped on board a schooner or steamboat and landed at Detroit, at that time not a very prepossessing town, some coming on to Washtenaw county by flat-boat up the Huron river, a wearisome journey, others, buying oxen and wagons at Detroit, if they had left such means of travel behind them in their recent eastern homes, and making the journey overland by the new government road, if possible, a more tiresome and dangerous route, for they were lucky in case the oxen were able to drag the loaded wagons over mud holes and creeks without the added weight of even the women and children. Not a few women walked the entire distance from Detroit to Ypsilanti and even to other settlements beyond in those early days of pioneering. There can be no wonderment that the foundations were so well laid and the results could not be otherwise than as they are, when we consider the quality of those first settlers. Too little credit is often given them. Many had left home with only the determination or wish to find a location somewhere, somehow, sometime, in the new Territory of Michigan. Some had, in their minds, a definite purpose and a definite location as their goal. By this time an almost continuous stream of immigrants was passing through Washtenaw county, some on their way to Chicago and some intending to push on to the country further west than the village of log cabins as it was in those days. Many such immigrants and location seekers were attracted by the beauty of the location and its apparent advantages and camped at the village of Ypsilanti to finally become citizens and to share in its future prosperity. Of these immigrants seeking to cast their lots with those who were building towns a choice of four villages, located within the present limits of Washtenaw county, was presented in the year 1824. In 1825 Orange Risdon, a pioneer and surveyor who had much to do with the building up of the county, made a map of the county and designated the location of villages and their relative size, as to population, by dots, as they were in 1824. Ann Arbor is shown with ten such dots and was the largest village in the county. Woodruff Grove came next with eight dots, followed by Ypsilanti with three, and Dexter with two. These were the only villages at that time large enough to be indicated by even one dot. Detroit at the time was only a little larger than double the size of Ann Arbor. As a result of the large amount of travel 54 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY over the only wagon road between Detroit and the western part of the territory many taverns or inns had sprung up along the route, for the most part built of logs and partitioned off into rooms with blankets and sheets. The first builder of a log cabin in any community was called upon by newcomers for temporary entertainment and, as provisions had to be hauled by boat or wagon a long distance, and were therefore scarce, no man could afford to be hospitable at the expense of his family, but felt it necessary to make a charge for at least the meals so furnished. In that way a small, mean cabin would soon become'known as a tavern and be so patronized and, in fact, a great boon and convenience to many. In 1826 Major Woodruff had built such a one at the Grove which was run by Mr. McKinstry and afterward by Whitmore and known as the Whitmore House. This tavern was located on the west bank of the Huron near Congress street bridge. One man, among the crowds of immigrants, knew exactly what he was coming to Michigan for, the place where he was going to locate and how he was going to carry out his plans. That was Chester Perry, who left New York state with the intention of building and operating a hotel in the village of Ypsilanti or Woodruff Grove. He brought with him from New York, a carpenter named Salmon Champion, a large quantity of hotel furnishings, sashes, window glass, hardware and many other articles he knew would be difficult to obtain beyond Detroit. This material and furniture he brought up the Huron river in a flat-boat as far as Rawsonville and from that head of navigation to Ypsilanti wagons were used. Perry built his hotel, the Perry House, at the southeast corner of Congress and Huron streets. In 1860 the hotel was sold to A. P. Bucklin and in 1868 burned to the ground. While the settlers were busy in making their new homes and operating their various businesses they were not the people to neglect educational and spiritual affairs. It is said that the Rev. Elias Pattee, a Methodist minister, formed a class of five in the village in 1825. That reverend gentleman belonged to the Ohio Conference of the M. E. Church and had been appointed to the Detroit circuit. He was a man of great zeal and activity, and realizing that immigration was pushing westward, followed "blazed" trees through the lowlands and swamps until he came upon the settlement at the Grove. There he found a few families lodged in shanties and rude homes and formed his little class. Returning at regular intervals during that summer he formed the society of the Methodist Episcopal church. Many settlements in Michigan owe to the Catholic church their first opportunity for regular religious services, but if the hardy and self-sacrificing priests of that church attempted to establish themselves in this community prior to this time they have left with us no record. In those days and in this part of our country the work of those faithful servants of their church was confined, to a great extent, to the education and civilization of.the savage. In fact, during the two centuries preceding the settlement of Michigan, the object of the priest who had been sent into the country by his superior HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 55 was not to encourage or to pave the way for settlement of the country by the white race but, as before stated, to Christianize the Indian. At the time the Rev. Pattee came to Washtenaw the population was composed of men and women belonging to many different denominations as well as some non-believers, and the coming of a man of God was welcomed by the majority. So to the Methodists must be given the credit of establishing the first regular church service in the town. In 1832 a very humble church building was erected or, at least, started for it was a story of great struggle to secure the means to finish the undertaking and-it was five years before the little chapel was ready for occupancy. The "Grove" was, at the time the church was established, on what was called the "Huron Circuit," extending from Detroit to far beyond Jackson (then called Jacksonburg.) The circuit was reduced in size and then called the Ann Arbor Circuit in 1830. Two years later it was further reduced and called the Ypsilanti Circuit. In 1838 the church at Ypsilanti was made a separate and independent station and the remarkable growth of the church for the period between 1831 and 1838 is shown by the great increase in membership which was 169 in the latter year. In 1843 the chapel started to show signs of decay and a new church building was badly needed although the congregation was not as yet in a position to assume further expense. However the situation was relieved by the offer of Dr. T. M. Town who proposed to take upon himself the entire responsibility and erect a church that would meet the requirements of the rapidly growing city. His only hope of being reimbursed financially was by the sale of seats and pews, or their rental, and in this he was not disappointed. The church was erected that year, 1843, and the sale and rental of the pews in due time enabled the church congregation to pay back to the doctor all he had expended in the erection of the building. In 1851 the lecture room was built on to the west end of the church building. In 1871 the congregation built a brick parsonage at a cost of over $5,000 and by 1880 the church, built in 1843, had become too small. The Presbyterians also took steps early in the history of the town to establish services. As early as 1827 ministers from Ann Arbor and Detroit came to Ypsilanti and preached sermons and in the absence of a minister Elias Skinner would read sermons to the villagers who cared to attend. In the middle of the summer of 1829 a church was organized by Clement Loveder, Ruth Loveder, George McDougall, Mary McDougall, Daniel and Cornelia Russell, James Fleming and Martha Fleming, Mary McMath, Roxana McMath, Sarah Whitmore and Joseph Brown, and Rev. William Jones began preaching in Ypsilanti. Mr. Jones was considered very eccentric but he proved himself zealous and a hard worker. The congregation was small and did not possess the means to erect a building for their meetings and services, but used the school house when services were held. Conditions were bettered by the procuring of a regular minister, in the person of Rev. Ira M. Wead, who really was their first. This was done in 1830, the Rev. Jones, who was at the time preaching at Stony Creek, Carpenter's Corners and Dixboro, having 56 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY delivered a sermon with his text: "Up, get ye out of this place; for the Lord will destroy it," left immediately for parts unknown. During the first four years of Mr. Wead's charge of the church, through the zeal of the congregation of twelve, influenced by his example, the church became self-sustaining and 113 new members were added. At this stage the question as to the form of church government arose. In 1830 a religious society was formed and duly organized according to the laws of the territory under the name of "The First Congregational Society of Ypsilanti." In 1832 the question was decided by a vote, almost unanimous, and the Presbyterian form was adopted and the church became "The First Presbyterian Church of Ypsilanti." The question of a church edifice was a serious one to the congregation but they persevered and in 1836 were able to dedicate a new and substantial one. The church continued to prosper despite the fact that the congregation was weakened on more than one occasion by the withdrawal of non-resident members to form churches in their own localities. In 1845, the pastor, the Rev. Wead, failing in health, was compelled to retire for a year or more and during his absence the Rev. H. H. Sanderson took charge. Mr. Wead was never in condition to resume his duties as pastor and in 1847 Edward Marsh became the regular pastor in charge. The Rev. Marsh was succeeded in 1850 by Rev. Ebenezer Cheever who filled the pulpit until February, 1854. From February to October the church was without a regular pastor and the interim was filled by Rev. John D. Pierce until a pastor could be called. Rev. Gustavus L. Foster accepted a call and assumed his duties in October, 1854. The same year the congregation found itself again in need of a larger church building and lots were purchased. The finances of the church being in splendid condition a committee was appointed to procure plans and specifications and the time being considered favorable stakes were set, the building finished and furnished and dedicated in 1857. From that year to 1862 Mr. Foster was the pastor, being succeeded in 1862 by Rev. J. Estabrook who was engaged as stated supply until a pastor could be called. In October, 1863, Rev. George P. Tindall, of Indianapolis, was secured. Mr. Tindall remained until 1875 when failing health made it necessary for him to seek another locality and he gave up his charge. In 1876 Rev. John M. Richmond was called and accepted. The settlers and villagers were equally as prompt in providing schools for the children who had been brought into the "wilderness" a long way from places of learning. In 1826 a school was opened and taught by Hope Johnson at the Grove and one by Olive Gordon in Ypsilanti. In 1828 Miriam Brooks began teaching in Ypsilanti and in the same and the following year Mrs. Mark Norris had a class in her home. C. Hovey opened a school in 1829 which he conducted about a year. In 1830 Miss Ruby Cannon started a school for girls, using part of the Harwood dwelling for the purpose. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 57 Harwood built a school house which was first used in 1831 and in that building Laura Vail taught. The building stood on the east side of the river. The building known as the "Old Red Building" was used as a school house as early as 1832. This building was south of the west public square and was used that year by Grove Spencer who had established a "select" school the year before. In 1833 Emily Wead taught in the school on the east side. In 1834 Miss Ruth Palmer established her "Young Ladies Select School." These schools were kept up by subscription, as public schools had not as yet been established. Public schools are treated in a separate chapter. In 1837 another church was organized in the village under the name of St. Luke's church. Prior to this time the few inhabitants who had been brought up in the Church of England had met at private houses, school houses or other obtainable places, before they were strong enough in numbers and finance to build. The Rev. Silas Freeman, a missionary in charge of several missions, came to Ypsilanti in 1830 and organized a congregation of Episcopalians and named the church "St. James," and for three years they met in a village hotel. Mr. Freeman was succeeded in 1834 by Rev. John Bosmond. After the reorganization of the church in 1837, and the change of name to "St. Luke's," there began a long struggle, experienced by all other congregations, to secure a building of their own, but success crowned their efforts and a new church building was dedicated in 1838. Several changes in rectors were made during the following years and at times there was no one in charge. In the summer of 1847 the pastor would walk from Ann Arbor to the town of Ypsilanti to conduct services. In 1853 the congregation erected a parsonage. In 1858 a new church building was erected. The Rev. John A. Wilson had become the pastor in 1847 and so remained many years. In the meantime the village of Ypsilanti was rapidly adding to its population and business enterprises. More "hotels" were needed and built. One, which formed the nucleus of a hotel which afterwards became favorably known throughout this part of Michigan, was built in 1827 and at the time called Tolland's Trading House, on the northwest corner of Congress and Washington. This was a log cabin and not only accommodated people with food and lodging but a store was run in connection. In 1830 a new owner, by the name of Foster, built a frame structure at one side of the cabin, repaired the old, and turned the whole into hotel purposes exclusively. Foster ran the business until in 1834 he found a purchaser at good advantage to himself. It changed hands once or twice prior to 1834 when Abiel Hawkins finally became the owner. The following year Hawkins built a frame addition on the west side of the original building and entered upon a progressive and prosperous hotel career. In 1846 Hawkins' son, Walter H., became the proprietor and the building was enlarged on the Washington street front. Young Hawkins operated the famous "Hawkins House" at the old location until 1879 when the building were removed, the lots sold, and the story of the hotel merges with that of newer Ypsilanti. 58 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY On Congress street, a short distance east of the bridge and on the north side of the street, the "Stack House" was built in part in 1827 and completed in 1830. The "Western House" was built in 1838 and opened the following year. This hotel was built much better than its contemporaries, being brick and faced with stone. This hotel eventually came under the management of Hawkins who ran it until the building was torn down to make way for the Michigan Central Railroad. The Ballou House was built in 1833 by Ballou, who furnished the lot and material, and John Bryan, who did the mechanical work. Bryan operated the hotel on the temperance plan for two or three years but this did not suit Ballou who took over its management and opened a bar in connection. In the very first years of its existence Ypsilanti began its career as a manufacturing city. The Huron river, as told in another part of this work, was a magnificent stream of water affording water power sites in almost every mile of its course through the county. In 1825 Major Woodruff, the founder of "Woodruff Grove," built his grist mill south of Ypsilanti, and John Stewart built his sawmill the following year in Ypsilanti. Hardy & Reading built their mill the next year on the site on which later stood the "Eagle Flouring Mills." In 1829, another flour mill was built by W. W. Harwood and in connection with the mill, Harwood and Mark Norris built a dam just south of Congress street. In 1832 Hurd & Sage started their iron foundry in a building built by them, 50x80 feet. Mr. Hurd leased of Mark Norris "a water power, two feet square, with a fall of five feet" to run the machinery installed in the foundry. The next year, 1833, the foundry was converted into a plow factory and afterwards into a woolen mill, and later on into an iron casting plant. The disadvantages under which these early iron workers carried on their business may be realized when we consider that, at that time, and up to the building of the railroad into Ypsilanti, all coal and iron used by them had to be brought from Detroit in wagons over roads 'which, today, no one would consider as roads, the trip requiring several days, and that the price of anthracite coal in Detroit was $24 a ton. The building, in 1844, was secured by Timothy Showerman who converted it into what became known as the "Aetna Mills." Showerman evidently used too much water and soon became involved in a law suit over the matter of water power which resulted in the shutting down of the mills, and the lease and building was purchased by Norris and Joslyn who made a sash, door and blind factory of it. Later, the business was expanded by the addition of a planing mill, ax handle factory and gypsum mill. In 1830 a sawmill was put in operation but was converted, in 1842, into a woolen mill which became a very important factor in the prosperity of the village, employing fifteen or twenty hands and its products being sought in all parts of the territory. In 1847 the operator of this plant died and the property was allowed to decay and be carried away by the waters of the river. A pail factory had been put in operation by Chester Perry, the hotel man, but was out of existence before 1836. The "Ypsilanti Flour HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 59 ing Mill" was built in 1840 by Mr. Norris. A distillery had been started by Captain Norton in 1826, and continued in operation for the next twenty-three years. These peaceful efforts of the villages to build their new enterprises, schools and churches were disturbed, more or less, by the habits and actions of some not so desirable. A few undesirable settlers had located on the banks of the river in the vicinity of the settlements and, becoming obnoxious to the better element, a vigilance committee was organized in 1838 to rid the community of their presence. The meetings of this committee, composed of some of the best citizens, were as secret as possible and their work had the best of results as 112 evil-doers were convicted and most of the others driven from the county. With her increasing population and industries Ypsilanti began, in 1833, to interest herself in the practical solution of the transportation problem. The river had for sometime been the hope of the villagers and for a few years many had used it in bringing supplies from Detroit. Flat boats of fifteen or twenty tons burden, propelled by poles in the hands of the operators, had been coming up the river since the first year of the settlement as far as "Snows Landing," now Rawsonville, the remainder of the trip to Ypsilanti being by wagon. The territory appropriated money for the purpose of improving navigation on the Huron but it did not proceed much beyond the work of the surveyors. Nevertheless, the days of the stage coach had passed. When the coach line was established between Detroit and Ypsilanti and the "running time" for the mail between the two places was fixed at fifteen hours the villagers would derive pleasure by offering a bonus of $1 to each driver making the trip in less time. The stage was to give way to a newer and much more efficacious means of communication with the outer world. Before taking up the story of the first railroad it is desirable to add one more feature of the enterprise of the citizens of the village during its first ten years. In 1833 a subscription was raised and a boat built to make the trip to Detroit, the first trip being made in May, 1834. In an issue of a Detroit newspaper, dated May 21, the following article appears: "Last week a boat arrived in this place from Ypsilanti with a load of flour consisting of 125 barrels, the entire distance being covered in thirty-six hours. This is an experiment which merits notice and encouragement. The flour was brought here at an expense of about thirty-eight cents per barrel, the usual price by land being from sixtythree to seventy-five cents. After the slight impediments to the navigation are removed the transportation will be greatly reduced, and it is ascertained by competent and well judging individuals that, by expending a trifling sum of money, the Huron river may be rendered navigable as far as Ypsilanti or Ann Arbor for steamboats of from thirty to fortyfive tons. "The result of this adventure justifies the expectation that hereafter the produce and importations of a considerable portion of Washtenaw county will be transported by water at a much less expense than the 60 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY usual tedious and tardy mode of land conveyance." These expectations, as we have seen, were never realized by the use of the Huron. The next, and more successful, attempt to better transportation to the interior was made by the state. In 1832 the "Detroit and St. Joseph Railroad" had been chartered and the citizens of the various towns and villages along the proposed route were called upon to subscribe to its capital stock and there was much enthusiasm over the project. Crowds of immigrants were arriving in Detroit by every steamboat and schooner, new settlements were springing up all over the state, and the pressing need for easier and more rapid transit through the interior, together with the general rejoicing throughout the state over its admission to the Union, led the state legislature into a wild scheme of internal improvements. From 1825 to 1837 the immigration increased so fast that business in all lines "boomed," large amounts of money being brought into the territory to buy land and to make the improvements. In 1836 the number of immigrants was amazing. Numerous associations were formed for the purpose of buying land and embryo city sites at the mouth of almost every western river were "laid out," and, by means of expensive advertising, creeks were magnified into streams and streams into navigable rivers floating magnificent steamers. Speculators dreamed of splendidly equipped hotels, schools and churches and their particular city served by many railroads leading in all directions. Untouched forests were platted as towns and the lots sold at thousands of per cent profit. Our own county did not escape this wild chase after fortunes and several such towns were started within its borders, none of them now in existence. As stated, the members of the state legislature were themselves carried away by the general bright outlook and passed an act, in 1837, appropriating $5,000,000, to be supplied by means of a loan, to be used in furthering internal improvements. Prior to thetime of this appropriation work had been begun on the road leading into Ypsilanti. In 1834 the men interested sought aid from the government at Washington on the grounds that the road would be a public benefit. In compliance with this petition an army officer was designated to make the survey and estimate of cost provided the company pay the expense otherwise occasioned by that work. Col. John M. Berrien, the officer delegated by the war department, completed the work and estimated the cost to be $3,200 per mile. Work was started at Detroit in 1835. Contracts were let for grubbing and clearing the right of way between that city and Ypsilanti and the work was completed in November, 1836. At this time the enthusiasm of the legislature showed itself and in 1837 an act was passed authorizing the purchase of the Detroit and St. Joseph road. One of the first things done by the state after acquiring the road (upon which about $120,000 had been expended by the first owners) was the changing of the name of the road to "Michigan Central." The state continued the construction work and in a few months the road was ready for use as far as Ypsilanti. February 8, 1838, was a great gala day for the people of this vicin HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 61 ity. A public dinner was served and addresses by prominent men of the state, were listened to by the delighted inhabitants of the village. The governor and other state officials honored the occasion by their presence. These men, accompanied by the "Grady Guards," had come on the first train from Detroit in a car that had just been built. The 'passenger car of that day resembled an omnibus placed on four wheels at right angles to the track and moving sideways, and the largest held less than forty people. The fare between Detroit and Ypsilanti was $1.50 and the trip consumed nearly two hours if the weather was favorable and no unforeseen trouble arose. On the occasion of the return of the governor and his Detroit friends from the celebration at Ypsilanti the engine pulling his "special" car became disabled six or seven miles outside Detroit and the car was "towed" into that city by a team of horses. During the first year of the operation of the road two round trips each day were made. It was nearly two years before the road was completed to Ann Arbor, that is October 18, 1839; by June of the same year it had reached Dexter, and Jackson in 1841; Kalamazoo in 1846 when, induced by the clamor of the public based on charges of mismanagement, the state sold the road to a corporation organized for the purpose of operating the road as a private enterprise. As first built the road consisted of two continuous wooden rails laid on the grade supported by cross ties and on each continuous wooden rail or stinger was spiked a common strap iron. Frequently this would curl up and pierce the bottom of the cars as they passed over them injuring, on different occasions, several passengers. By 1849, however, this style of rail had been replaced by the "T" rail, although very much lighter than the rail now in use. In 1852, after much delay and litigation, the road was completed to Chicago. While the building of the Michigan Central was going on other roads were in contemplation in which Ypsilanti was much interested. A road was proposed to be built from the village, passing through Rawsonville and ending on the shores of Lake Erie at Monroe. Nothing was done other than to form a paper organization. The Ypsilanti & Tecumseh Railroad was incorporated in 1838 but, after spending $60,000 of money borrowed from the state, the project was abandoned. The village of Ypsilanti was platted in 1825 and seven years later, 1832, was incorporated and John Gilbert was its first president. In 1841 the village was divided into two wards, the first constituted by all the village on the east and the second by all on the west side of the Huron. In 1844 the east side seceded and formed a separate village called East Ypsilanti. In 1858 the village was incorporated as a city and the east side became part of the new city. Judge Chauncy Joslyn was the first mayor. The charter of the city has been changed from time to time to meet modern conditions and the growth of the city has been healthy and permanent, as shown in special articles. The days of the old postoffice has been referred to, the village and city of Ypsilanti putting up with the many inconveniences of early day mail service due to the newness of the country. Before the erection of the present government building, at 62 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY the corner of Michigan avenue and Adams the postoffice was located for nearly thirty years at the corner of Huron and Pearl. The new building was built in 1916 at a cost of $85,000. When the Michigan National Guards were absorbed into the federal service in 1917 the local company of Signal Corps became part of the 107th Field Signal Battalion, being merged with the Signal Corps of Wisconsin and was attached to the famous 32nd Division composed of Michigan and Wisconsin National Guard units. After the war the Ypsilanti company, under the reorganization of the state troops, became part of the 107th Field Signal Battalion. Under this reorganization a medical detachment was organized at Ypsilanti and in 1923 the new armory was completed at a cost of $58,000. The fire department of Ypsilanti was completely motorized in 1916 and is modern in every respect, employing eleven firemen on the single platoon system. The equipment consists of one combination truck, one triple combination pumper and one service truck. Ypsilanti has from its earliest days been an important manufacturing center and while the nature of its products have changed a great deal, is still today a progressive manufacturing town. The Ypsilanti Stove Company which was incorporated in August, 1925, giving employment to about 200 people, is an example of the progressive spirit of the citizens. The factory is ideally located, is of the "saw tooth" roof construction with nearly 55,000 square feet of floor space. The company manufactures stoves, oil-stoves, metal products and household utilities and, while a new concern, is already enjoying a business at the rate of $1,000,000 annually. E. E. Ferguson is the president. Louis T. Wilcox, associated with Mr. Ferguson, is a man who has for many years been a successful manufacturer of these lines. The capital stock is divided, $125,000 preferred and $250,000 common, the preferred being all paid in and $155,000 of the common. The first paper mills started in Ypsilanti began operation in 1855, and were known as the Cornwall Paper Mills. The mills were burned in 1871 and shortly afterwards the new buildings were burned. The Peninsular Paper Company was incorporated in 1867 by A. L. Barnes, I. N. Conklin and J. W. Van Cleve. In 1868 the company erected the building, still standing, and manufactured the paper used by the Chicago Tribune. The latter company, fearing that fire might destroy the plant of the paper company, insisted upon the erection of another building on the opposite side of the river which was done. In those days all news paper was made from rags but in after years wood pulp was used and the local plants had to seek a new outlet for their product. In 1897 the buildings on the north side burned and the plant of the south side was eventually enlarged. Daniel L. Quirk, Sr., was for many years at the head of the company and was succeeded in 1911 by Charles E. King. Mr. King died in 1913 and was succeeded by Daniel L. Quirk, Jr., who had been secretary of the company since 1901. About 150 men are employed and the company makes paper for catalogue covering and high-grade color work. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 63 BANKS In the article on the banking business of Ann Arbor is given a partial history of the "wild cat" banking days of the county. Ypsilanti had its full share of the unhappy experience. Under a special charter, by act of the legislature, passed and approved in March, 1836, the Bank of Ypsilanti was organized by Henry Compton, A. H. Ballard, Marcus Lane, Silas French, Mark Norris and Grove Spencer, and Timothy Treadwell made president and David Balantine, cashier. A year later Benjamin Follett, a real banker, succeeded Balantine as cashier. The capital stock was $100,000 and for a few years it enjoyed a comparatively large business and the confidence of the community but, although it was not exactly a "wild cat" institution, it was compelled to take advantage of the recently made bankruptcy law and go out of business. In 1868 the Huron River Bank was organized under the "wild cat" banking law and went the way of all those concerns. A. H. Ballard, one of the men who helped organize the bank of Ypsilanti two years before, was the first and only president of the Huron River Bank, and M. V. Hall, its cashier. After a year and a half of operation the bank was thrown into bankruptcy and George M. Skinner appointed receiver. The patrons of the bank received little or nothing. The Bank of Superior, another "wild cat" banking house was organized a short time afterwards, John Van Fossen being the president and James M. Edwards, its cashier. It is, however, unjust to credit this institution as among the banking houses of the city of Ypsilanti as its location was in what was then advertised as Lowell near where the Ypsilanti Paper Mills afterwards stood. The bank could not weather the loss of $300 worth of notes stolen from it and went out of business. Not until 1852 did any one venture on opening another bank in Ypsilanti. In the meantime the law under which the old banks had been organized, and had made such costly failures, was declared unconstitutional by the supreme court of the state and repealed. In that year Benjamin Follett, who had come to the village when he was eighteen years of age and shortly afterwards, in 1837, had become cashier of the Bank of Ypsilanti, having acquired valuable experience in banking matters while connected with that institution, organized the bank of Follett, Conklin & Company. Samuel Y. Denton was the "company." After a year Mr. Denton withdrew and was succeeded by Charles H. Tisdale. The firm continued business until 1862 when the partnership was dissolved, and Mr. Follett formed a new partnership with R. W. Hemphill under the firm name of B. Follett & Company. The new firm began banking in the old Follett House block and continued until 1865 when the name was changed to Cornwell, Hemphill & Company, Mr. Follett retiring to devote his attention to another bank. In 1860 Edgar and F. P. Bogardus organized a banking house under the name of E. & F. P. Bogardus and carried on a successful business until they later merged their business with that of the National Bank organized by Mr. Follett and others. 64 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY The First National Bank was organized by Benjamin Follett, I. N. Conklin, who had been associated with Mr. Follett in the bank of Follett, Conklin & Company, Asa Dow, D. L. Quirk and Cornelius Cornwell, in the year 1864 and three years later absorbed the business and personnel of the Bogardus firm which had been doing business since 1860. The history of the First National Bank really dates from the organization, by Mr. Follett, of the little bank in 1852. The First National is the fifth national bank to be organized in the state and is the oldest national bank in the state operating under its original charter. In 1905 the bank built a new building on its present site and in 1920 remodeled the building. Daniel L. Quirk remained the president of the bank until his death in December, 1911, He became president in 1884, succeeding Mr. Conklin. Daniel L. Quirk, Jr., succeeded his father as president in January, 1912. The present officers are: D. L. Quirk, Jr., president; Darwin C. Griffen, vice-president; E. F. Goodwin, cashier. In 1918 the resources of the bank were $1,672,143.76 and in 1925, $3,260,645.62. In June, 1925, the capital stock was $150,000; surplus, $190,000; undivided profits, $45,603.33, and deposits of $2,260,094.29. The Ypsilanti Savings Bank is the outgrowth of the private banking house of Cornwell, Hemphill & Company which succeeded, in 1865, the firm of B. Follett & Company, formed in 1862. The bank was incorporated in 1887 and the present officers are: M. M. Read, president; John P. Kirk, vice-president; W. E. McLeod, cashier. The statement of the condition of the bank for June 30, 1925, shows: Capital stock, $100,000; surplus, $75,000; undivided profits, $40,674.42, and deposits, $1,772,351.49; total resources, $1,998,025.91. In 1923 Frederic L. Gallup, who had been associated with the First National for thirty years, beginning at the bottom and retiring in 1919 as vice-president and cashier, erected the building now occupied by the Peoples National Bank. He organized the bank and obtained the charter and opened the bank for business in September of that year. The officers are: H. E. Van de Walker, president; E. B. Kellogg, vicepresident, and Frederic L. Gallup, vice-president and cashier. The statement for June 30, 1925, shows: Capital stock, $100,000; surplus, $20,000; deposits, $677,611.04. WASHTENAWJS GROWTH IN POPULATION Washtenaw county's increase in population, especially during the past twenty years, has been steady. From what was, less than a century ago, a veritable wilderness, has been built a thriving, populous community. Comparison of the estimated number of residents in Washtenaw county in 1837 with the figures obtained by the 1920 census shows that much of the increase in population has been enjoyed by the cities and villages of this community. Complete statistics, as shown by the census reports of 1910 and 1920, are as follows: Population of the Townships Population of Washtenaw County (Including Villages) 1837................................................ 21,817 1910 1920 1840........................................ 23,571 Ann Arbor............ 989 1,051 1845................................................. 26,979 Augusta................... 1,485 1,395 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 65 1850..................................... 28,567 1854................................................... 28,554 1860........................................ 35,686 1864.................................................... 34,048 1870............................................ 41,434 1874....................................... 38,723 1880............................................41,848 1884................................................ 41,694 1890.................................... 42,210 1894.................................... 43,509 1900................................................. 47,761 1904...................................................... 46,776 1910...................................................... 44,714 1920...................................................... 49,520 Bridgewater.......... 961 Dexter........................... 543 Freedom..................... 924 Lima.............................. 875 Lodi................................. 1,053 Lyndon........................ 528 Manchester...............1,848 Northfield.................. 1,156 Pittsfield..................... 970 Salem.......................... 1,034 Saline........................... 1,617 Scio............................... 1,642 Sharon.................... 897 Superior..................... 917 Sylvan........................ 2,409 W ebster.................... 734 York.............................. 2,003 Ypsilanti.................... 1,082 Ann Arbor City......14,817 Ypsilanti City...... 6,230 44,714 878 506 859 964 966 527 1,746 953 1,017 938 1,509 1,313 709 778 2,620 617 2,162 1,083 19,516 7,413 49,520 Population of the Villages. 1910 1920 1910 1920 Chelsea..............................1,764 2,079 M ilan.................................1,355 1,557 Dexter............................. 726 587 Saline................................ 816 830 M anchester..................1,047 1,024 CHAPTER IV MISCELLANEOUS IN the pioneer days the residents of the village, if they found it necessary to go "down street" at night and the night was dark and cloudy, were compelled to find their way by the aid of lanterns. Soon the villagers erected posts with an oil lamp affixed to top of each and they thought the place well lighted. In 1858 Dr. Silas H. H. Douglas organized a company for the manufacture of gas for street lighting and use in the homes and business houses of the city. Hiram-Becker was made president; H. W. Wells, secretary, and Charles Tripp, S. H. Douglas and E. W. Morgan were directors. Dr. Douglas was made superintendent, a position he occupied for many years. The capital stock was fixed at $23,000 and was promptly subscribed. Buildings were erected and four miles of pipe-line laid that year. The price of gas was $4 per thousand for the first three years after which it was reduced to $3.50, but after three years it was again placed at $4. For eleven years the priced remained at that figure when, in 1875, it was reduced to $3.50. The streets were lighted by the gas made by the company and in 1881 there were seven miles of street mains, with sixty-six "public" or street lamps and 332 private consumers. The capital stock was increased from time to time; in 1861 to $30,000; in 1871 to $60,000, at which figure it remained for several years. The company has been compelled to modernize the plant at different times. At the present time, 1925, the company has the latest type gas oven producing gas with a capacity of 700,000 feet per day and in 1920 installed a modern carborated water gas plant which has a daily output of 1,500,000 cubic feet. The storage or holding capacity is 700,000 cubic feet. From 1875 to 1880 the capacity of production of the Gas Company was from thirty to forty thousand feet per day and today it is over 1,000,000 feet. The company employs seventy-five men and has an annual payroll of $125,000. The by-products are coke, tar and ammonia. The coke, 12,000 tons per annum, is sold locally while the tar and ammonia are sold to outside distillers. The company has ninety-five miles of gas mains, fifteen miles being high pressure mains. The towns of Dexter and Chelsea are supplied with gas by the local company and in the two places are 1,300 customers. In Ann Arbor there are 6,600 customers and the number is increasing at the rate of over 200 per annum. When the company was first organized $4 per thousand was the charge and at the present time it is $1.25 net for the first 5,000. In 1889 Henry W. Douglas succeeded his father as manager and continued as such until his death in 1924. In that year Charles R. Henderson was made manager of the works. The present capital stock is $400,000, and the officers are: D. F. Zimmerman, president and treas HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 67 urer; S. T. Douglas, of Detroit, vice-president; C. M. Shankland, secretary and assistant treasurer, and Charles R. Henderson, manager. The question of a water supply for domestic use had been discussed pro and con for several years prior to 1885, but, as there was a difference of opinion among the citizens as to whether a plant should be built and operated by the city or by a private corporation, there had been but little accomplished. A committee was appointed in 1884, composed of Judge Cooley, ex-Governor Felch, Dr. V. C. Vaughan, Charles Hiscock and Christian Eberbach to formulate plans for supplying the city with water. This committee adopted the plans worked out by Professor C. E. Greene and received bids for the construction of the plant and recommended to the city council the advisability of accepting the offer of a Massachusetts contracting firm. The plans called for the laying of fourteen miles of water mains and the construction of a reservoir at an elevation of 200 feet above the street level at the intersection of Main and Huron streets, and 100 fire hydrants for which the city was to pay an annual rental of $4,000. In 1885 the matter was submitted to a vote of the people with the result that the council was authorized to make a contract with the bidders and to grant to the operating company the exclusive use of the streets for the purpose of laying their water mains. In less than seven months the pipes were laid, the reservoir built and the pumps began forcing water through the pipes from the wells. The works were accepted by the council by a vote of nine to one. As is the history of many public utility corporations the water works company had many difficulties to overcome. Its first superintendent proved unsatisfactory, so much so that the company was forced to have a receiver appointed. Dr. A. K. Hale was made receiver in 1893 and under his efficient management stock rose to par. Dr. Hale continued as manager after the receivership was discontinued but, while Dr. Hale did all in his power to give good service, there was much discontent and agitation. In 1905 the feeling in favor of the city owning the plant became very strong. A splendid opportunity had been neglected by the city when the plant was not purchased while in the hands of a receiver. By 1905 the works had been greatly enlarged and about 2,000,000 gallons per day were being used, four times as much as in 1885, and there was fortytwo miles of water mains instead of fourteen. An additional pumping station had been erected in 1896 the second one being fed by springs. The question of municipal ownership has always had its advocates and its opponents but the question of a water supply for Ann Arbor was of such vital moment that its citizens decided to buy the plant and after an issuance of bonds to the amount $450,000 had been duly authorized, the city obtained possession in December, 1913. The water commissioners employed George S. Vandawarker as manager and under his management the ownership by the city has been justified. Steps were at once taken to put the plant in first class condition and the following excerpts are taken from the report for the year 1924 to show the progress of the undertaking: "About ninety-eight per cent of the water supplied to the city was artesian water. The revenues have been sufficient to pay all operating 68 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY and maintenance expenses, interest on outstanding bonds, the principal of bonds due, with a surplus sufficient for current extensions to the water distribution system. No. 2 pumping station on Washington street was discontinued and a building for a workshop, meter department, storage room and office for the superintendent was erected on the property. During the year 1824 the water supply of the city was obtained from No. 1 and No. 3 pumping stations. No. 3 pumping station is entirely dependent on railfall and the distribution of rainfall throughout the year was such as to reduce the ground water supply at this station to an extraordinary minimum level, making it necessary to materially reduce the pumpage from that station and supplement the water requirements by pumping from the Huron river at station No. 1. Pumping station No. 2 was abandoned for the following reasons: 1. The comparatively small amount of water that the region would yield. 2. The growth of the city in this district resulting in almost a complete encircling of the region by dwellings. 3. The contamination of the water as developed by surface water. 4. The reconstruction of practically the entire collecting system is necessary to avoid it being contaminated by surface water from the streets and from the public dump. The water supply of the No. 3 pumping station remains at a high degree of purity and requires no treatment. The Huron river water is nearly as hard as the water from No. 3 station supply and is treated with liquid chlorine for the elimination of harmful bacteria. No. 1 pumping station is located near Barton Dam about one-half mile from the northwest corner of the city and in this station has been installed one electric motor driven centrifugal pump with a capacity of 5,000,000 gallons per day and one steam driven pump with a daily capacity of 2,500,000 gallons. This plant is used to supplement the water supply from the No. 3 pumping station. Its operation was required for part time during two weeks of the mid-summer period and during the last month of the fiscal year, the former occasion being due to the large demand during the extremely dry period in the summer and the latter occasion because of the deficit in water supply due to extraordinary small rainfall. During the balance of the period No. 1 station is maintained as a reserve station and is used a short time each day to deliver the artesian water collected at this station. No. 2 pumping station is located on west Washington street and has been abandoned for the reasons given. No. 3 pumping station is located about three miles south of the city on State street at the so-called Steere farm and.has two electric motordriven centrifugal pumps of 3,700,000 gallons per day capacity each. The electrical service to this station is now connected to the Edison Company system at Ann Arbor and to the transmission system near Saline which insures continuity of service. During the year 1924 a very large addition to the distribution mains has been made, there having been more than 20,000 feet of six-inch cast-iron pipe laid and twenty-two additional fire hydrants placed, making 380 in all. The water pressure is generally satisfactory throughout the central portion of the city but it is not so satisfactory in the easterly, westerly and HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 69 northerly parts. The recent rapid development of the west side beyond Seventh street has resulted in unsatisfactory pressure conditions as well as at times turbulent water, due to high velocity in the small mains, resulting in inadequate water supply for fire protection, particularly for large fires. The north side is not adequately supplied with water, there being at present only a single six-inch main supplying that district. The Chubb road reservoir is an open basin constructed of earth and lined with boulders and has a capacity of 2,500,000 gallons or about sixty-six per cent of the amount daily consumed. During the year 1924 there were 288 new customers added making a total of 6,214. The rates charged are fair and satisfactory. The capital assets since municipal ownership is herewith given: Value added to plant, Value added to plant, Value added to plant, Vaule added to plant, Value added to plant, Value added to plant, Value added to plant, Value added to plant, Value added to plant, Value added to plant, Value added to plant, 1914......... 1915......... 1916......... 1917......... 1918......... 1919......... 1920......... 1921......... 1922......... 1923......... 1924......... Earnings $19,760.93 21,233.28 46,676.73 89;289.86 14,773.13 50,043.66 21,304.54 55,293.24 31,925.24 54,101.73 49,292.60 Bonds $266,317.73 76,561.71 8,262.02 15,947.02 4,490.62 5,584.15 Total $ 19,760.93 21,233.28 46,676.73 89,289.86 14,773.13 316,361.39 97,866.25 63,555.26 47,872.26 58,592.35 54,876.75 Total addition value............$453,694.94 Original cost to city.......................................................... Actual cost to 1925................................................................ Less property abandoned..............................................,... $377,163.25 $830,858.19.................................$ 450,000.00................................. 1,280,858.19................................. 91,038.03.... I,. Book value January 31, 1925....................................................... 1,189,820.16 Less balance depreciation reserve account....................................... 69,535.06 Actual value January 31, 1925............................................................... The income since 1914, the date of purchase to 1925 was $1,237,728.08. A total of $849,500.00 in bonds were issued of which $130,000.00 have been paid. From the summary for the year 1924 we have: Income from all sources.................................................................................. Deductions from income: Operation.....................................................................$41,500.29 Maintenance...................................................... 9,858.29 Interest on Funded Debt........................... 33,035.53 $1,120,285.10.....$172,126.26 84,394.11 Net earnings credited to Surplus.......................................$ 87,732.15 Deductions from Surplus: 70 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Depreciation................................................................. $19,173.26 Interest on Replacement Fund........................ 2,854.03 22,027.29 Operating NET profit.............................................. $ 65,704.86 For several years the city had been involved in a law suit filed by seventeen landowners who"- claimed that the pumping of the water from the wells on the Steere farm was a detriment to the agricultural land in the vicinity. Testimony was first heard in 1922 and in 1923 and 1924 further testimony was heard. Judgment was rendered by Judge Sample in August, 1925, in favor of the city. In 1833 the legislative council enacted a law providing for the issuance of bonds of counties for the purpose of raising money with which to build certain county buildings. The board of supervisors of Washtenaw county at once took advantage of the law and erected a court house in 1834. The building was a large two-story edifice, very pretentious for those days and did good service for nearly a half century. But, like most citizens of growing American towns, the people of Ann Arbor, long before the building was replaced by a better, felt that their court house was not in keeping with the needs of the county, both in size and architecture and there was much agitation of the question of a new one. It was not until 1876 that the supervisors were convinced that the law required that each organized county should provide a suitable court house and that the one serving that purpose for the county of Washtenaw was dilapidated, inconvenient, unsafe and unhealthy and that the records were not free from danger of fire. In that year the supervisors passed a resolution that the public interests demanded the erection of a new court house with fire-proof vaults for the various offices. The city of Ann Arbor had agreed to donate the sum of $20,000 upon the condition that the county would erect a $60,000 court house. The question was submitted to the vote of the people and approved by them. The contract for the erection of the building was let, after the building committee had decided upon plans and specifications, in the summer of 1877, and the work begun at once. On the 25th of October, of that year, the cornerstone was laid with imposing ceremonies. In the box incased in the cornerstone were copies of the Ann Arbor Courier, Michigan Argus, Detroit Post and Tribune, Ann Arbor Register, Detroit Free Press, catalogue of the University of Michigan, Medical College announcement, the Michigan Almanac, Circuit Court calendar for the fall term, 1877, Proceedings of the Board of Supervisors, 1876, catalogue of the Ann Arbor Public Schools, photographs of the old court house and a few other interesting articles. Addresses were made by Judge Lawrence, ex-Governor Felch, Chauncey Joslin and others, The cost of the building, including furnishing, was $83,000, and it is very substantially built, being of red pressed brick, trimmed with stone and the foundation and basement walls being of stone. The clock in the tower was the gift of Luther James. In 1924 large, handsome cement steps were built at the east HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 71 side entrance under which has been placed rest rooms for both men and women. One of the first buildings the county erected was the old jail, a very crude temporary affair but in 1837 a very pretentious building was erected which was destined to serve the county for nearly fifty years as a place to keep offenders. This jail was built on the ground donated by the founders of the village. The building was two and half stories high, of brick and costing $17,000. In 1886 the front part of the present jail building was erected on the corner of Ann and Ashley streets. The following year the rear portion was added. The building in design is of the pattern mostly in vogue in those days in the matter of jails and is designed as a residence for the sheriff or other officer and with cells and offices in the rear. The Ann Arbor postoffice was established in 1825 and John Allen was the first postmaster. It was not necessary at that time to have a special building for the purpose of housing the mail matter and officials as the mail could be more conveniently carried about on the person of the postmaster and delivered to patrons if the postmaster chanced to meet him. Mr. Allen lived in the "upper" part of the village and when, in 1832, Anson Brown secured the office of postmaster and the "office" had its headquarters in the "lower" town, there was quite bitter feelings and steps were taken to bring the postoffice back to the "upper village." The trouble was ended by the death of Brown and the appointment of Charles Thayer who brought it back. For many years the location of the postoffice at Ann Arbor was a source of much contention. The office had for years been located on Huron street in the Gregory Hotel building, now the Ann Arbor Savings Bank building, and efforts had been made to have it removed to another location. In 1883 or 1884 the office was removed from that location to a building owned by Rice A. Beal, on the corner of Main and Ann, where it remained until the government erected the present building. In 1903 the postoffice department purchased the ground at the corner of Catherine and Main. However, by the establishment of the free delivery system in 1887, the location of the postoffice was not of so much importance. The Ann Arbor postoffice has for many years been quite important and in 1900 became a first-class office. The efforts of the citizens were now centered upon obtaining the erection of a government building and, ably assisted by Representative (afterwards senator) Charles D. Townsend, these efforts resulted in congress appropriating $80,000 for the purpose, and in 1908-09 the building was built, being ready for and occupied on the 30th day of May, 1909. The entire cost, including the ground, was $103,000. The building is of stone with granite foundation and is typical of the government postoffice buildings over the country in cities of the size of Ann Arbor. The following men have been postmasters since 1825: John Allen, Anson Brown, Charles Thayer, Mark Howard, George Danfoth, F. J. B. Crane, Caleb Clark, Henry D. Bennett, John I. Thompson, Richard Beahan, C. B. Grant, H. S. Dean, C. G. Clark, J. C. Knowlton, Edward Duffy, Eugene E. Beal, S. W. Beakes, George H. Pond, Horace G. Prettyman, Horatio J. Abbott and Ambrose C. 72 HISrORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 'Pack, the present incumbent. George F. Sanzi is the assistant postmaster, having been made assistant in 1914 after having served as carrier, clerk and superintendent of mails during his thirty years connection with the office. In 1910 those interested in military affiairs in Ann Arbor at once took advantage of the law, passed a year or two previously, to secure for the city a state armory. The city donated the lot on the corner of Ann and north Fourth avenue, and the building was completed that year at a cost of $25,000, including the lot. A drill room, eighty feet square, reading room, billiard room, captains' offices, orderly rooms, locker rooms, indoor range for target practice, storage rooms for two companies and a kitchen in the basement have been provided. The armory at Ann Arbor was the third to be built in the state under the law. Judge William A. Fletcher, first chief justice of the state of Michigan, and who had been a regent of the university, died in Ann Arbor in the early fifties, and was buried in an iron coffin in the old graveyard, now Felch park. There was no headstone to mark his grave, and when, years later, the bodies were removed to the new Forest Hill cemetery, his was overlooked. It was later found several years ago by workmen laying water pipes, properly identified and through the efforts of the Washtenaw County Pioneer Society, the State Pioneer and Historical Society, and the State Bar Association, has been disinterred and transferred to the new cemetery, in a conspicuous plot of ground, where a suitable boulder has been placed. Through an appropriation by the county supervisors a bronze tablet will be added to the stone in the coming spring-thus fulfilling a long-deferred duty. The Washtenaw County Pioneer and Historical Society was organized August 16, 1873, with headquarters in Ann Arbor. Ex-Governor Alpheus Felch was its first president. It has been devoted to preserving the history of the county, and many valuable papers contributed to its meetings, which were published in the city newspapers and other documents have been deposited in the fire-proof vaults of the university library. A considerable collection of pioneer relics has been gathered and kept in an upper room of the court house, but it is useless there and may be transferred to the university when the proposed new museum is built, or the collection may go to the state pioneer museum at Lansing. The "History of Washtenaw County," published by Chapman & Company, of Chicago, in 1881, was made up mainly from material furnished by committees of the society, and it will always be the definite history of the early days of the county. In 1898 the society erected on the grounds of the old Washtenaw County Fair Society in Ann Arbor a typical pioneer log cabin, provided with furniture of the early period, but some years later, when the old Fair Society went out of existence and the grounds were turned into a public park, the cabin was dismantled of its furnishings, moved to another part of the grounds, and now stands a solitary reminder of a condition of society that is past and gone. The Washtenaw County Fair Society was formed in 1919 for the HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 73 advancement of the agricultural and horticultural of the county and vicinity with George McCalla and William L. Waltz, as president and secretary respectively, and Earl Martin its first manager. The fair has been a success from the start due to the efforts of its officers and managers and to the spirit of co-operation which has existed during the six years of its existence. The first fair was held under canvas but in 1921 the society omitted exhibition for that year and devoted their energies to the procuring of permanent grounds and buildings. James Murnan was the president of the society that year and the efforts of the officers enabled the society to hold their fair for the year 1922 on their own grounds. Forty-two acres were purchased just beyond the western city limits on Jackson avenue, and a half-mile track, one of the best in the state, was constructed. The merchant building was erected and the 112 booths rented to merchants for exhibition purposes. The building is 125x150 feet, two stories high, the second story being used for general exhibition. A. L. Watt became manager in 1824. The officers in 1922, the same as this year and the two preceding years, are: C. J. Hutzel, president; C. J. Sweet, secretary; Roy B. Hiscock, treasurer, and Benjamin Stein, G. F. Cossar, O. C. Burkhardt, R. H. Alber, John Lawson and W. L. Henderson, directors. The interurban line between the cities of Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor was built in the fall of 1890 at a cost of about $45,000 and was operated by steam power, and ran only to the city limits transfering the passengers to the local street railway. In 1895 the local lines, established in 1890, were absorbed by the interurban and in 1897 was sold to the Detroit, Ypsilanti & Ann Arbor Street Railway Company. In 1901 the line was extended to Jackson. The local electric lines were abandoned in the early part of 1925 and bus lines substituted giving service to a larger part of the city. In competition to the interurban, buses are operated between Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor and Detroit and in almost all directions from the two Washtenaw cities bus lines are operated giving fast and comfortable transportation. There probably is no county in the country in which the citizens of the cities and towns keep up with the forward march in improvements than Washtenaw county. In the matter of telephone communication the plant at Ann Arbor has this year, 1925, been changed to the automatic system at a cost of $900,000. The "cut over" was made at midnight, May 2, with annoyance to its 8,300 patrons. A new modern building was erected by the company and is occupied exclusively by the telephone equipment offices and storage rooms. OTHER RAILROADS IN THE COUNTY The Toledo, Ann Arbor & Northern Railroad was built to Ann Arbor in 1878 with its southern terminus at Toledo, and eventually extended to Cadillac and Frankfort. The Pere Marquette was built through Salem township in 1870 and was first known as the Detroit, Howell & Lansing, afterwards as the Detroit, Lansing & Northern. In 1836 the Palmyra & Jacksonburg road was charted and finally built through Tecumseh and Manchester to Jackson. The Lake Shore was built in 1870, then known as the De 74 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY troit, Hillsdale & Indiana. The road runs from Ypsilanti to Hillsdale passed through Pittsfield, Saline, Bridgewater and Manchester in Washtenaw county. For many years the two railroads running through the city of Ann Arbor were crossed by the streets of the city at grade. The first partial separation of grades occurred in 1886 on the occasion of the building of the Michigan Central station. State street which had formerly crossed the track was closed at this point and a grade was started by the building of an overhead bridge on Beakes street. The Michigan Central, in 1902, without expense to the city, separated the grade on Fuller street by building an overhead bridge. At the same time they lowered their track through the city and slightly changed the course of the Huron river. There is now no place in the city where the Michigan Central is crossed at grade. The problem of separating the grades of the Ann Arbor Railroad was a much more difficult one. This road runs through the city and was built after the streets were laid out so that a great number of streets cross the track. While the Michigan Central was constructed along the Huron river where it was comparatively easy to end the streets without crossing the tracks. A separation of the grade of the Ann Arbor Railroad was made in 1903 and 1904 by the railroad company itself at many of the streets crossed by the track in the city. With the permission of the city the railroad, at some expense, lifted its track and caused a separation of grade at Miller, Felch, Huron and Washington streets. There now remain grade crossings on this road at Liberty, William, Ashley, West Jefferson, South Main, West Madison, Hill and South State streets. The stone depot of the Michigan Central Railroad, built in 1886, was not obtained without an expenditure of money on the part of the city of Ann Arbor, but an appropriation of $5,000 to the Michigan Central was not given for the purpose of building a station. The station was, however, a part of the consideration of the city appropriating $5,000 towards building the approaches to the bridge which the Michigan Central erected on Beakes street, thus securing separation of grade at that point. The old station of the Michigan Central was turned into a freight house. The present Ann Arbor Railroad station was erected in 1888 and the city appropriated $2,500 for the purpose of opening Ashley street from William to West Jefferson so that a station might be built at this point. CHAPTER V MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE AW HILE, undoubtedly, the great attraction that the county of Washtenaw presented to the prospective settlers of the earliest days of its history was the beauty of the country and its fertile soils, which have enabled those who cast their fortune with that of the county to bring Washtenaw to the front as one of the very best agricultural counties in the United States, it was recognized by the first settlers that the water power afforded by the streams of the county offered great opportunities for its development for manufacturing purposes. It was almost absolutely necessary that manufacturing of some sort should be done at the very beginning of the settlement as it was a long and tiresome trip to Detroit to procure flour and impossible to bring back lumber in large quantities; therefore, it was but natural that saw and grist mills should be the first manufacturing industries. It is interesting to study the ways and means adopted by man to supply his imperative wants when not able to procure them in the accustomed manner. As soon as the pioneer had completed at least a temporary cabin for the use of his family he put in the crop which would supply the family with flour and meal the coming year. Before the first grist mill could be erected in the vicinity he had been compelled to devise means of grinding his grain. Of this a woman who had come into the county in 1823 writes: "It was amusing, the first fall and winter, to hear the corn mills in operation every morning before daylight. There were two in the settlement (Woodruff Grove.) They were made as follows: A hole was burned in the top of a sound oak stump; after scraping this clear from coal, a stick about six feet and eight inches in diameter was rounded at one end and hung by a spring pole directly over the stump; a hole was bored through this pestle for handles and the mill was complete. A man would pound a peck of dry corn in half an hour so that one-half of it would pass through a sieve, and little of any other kind of bread was used for two years." The Huron, the largest of the streams in the county, has its source in the lakes of Oakland county. At first it flows in a southwesterly direction entering Washtenaw through Base lake but at a little distance south of Dexter it turns eastward and, in general, follows a southeasterly course, leaving the county in Ypsilanti township, flowing through Wayne county and emptying into Lake Erie. The Huron is a beautiful, transparent stream, passing through rich bottom lands, oak openings, plains and woods. The fall of the river between Dexter and Ypsilanti is 124 feet, an average of more than eight feet to the mile. The most rapid fall is between Delhi and a point a mile east. Three miles west of Ypsilanti the river falls eleven feet in half a mile and, in fact, the whole distance of the river afforded mill-sites in every mile. No wonder then that the settler turned, as soon as possible, from his 76 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY hand manipulated pestle to avail himself of the power of the Huron and other streams. Major Woodruff, anxious to see his village become the metropolis of Washtenaw county, erected a grist mill on the Huron about a half mile down the river from the Grove. John Stewart built a sawmill near the present site of the city of Ypsilanti about the same time. A sawmill was built at Ann Arbor the same year, 1825, by the Allens. In 1827 Hardy and Reading had built a sawmill near Ypsilanti and the next year built their grist mill. In 1829 W. W. Harwood built a grist mill nearby. Three years prior to this George W. Noyes had built his grist mill at Ann Arbor. At the same place, in 1829, G. and C. Prusica had started their tannery. In 1827 Cornelius Osterhout and a man named Hull had built a sawmill in Dexter township. In 1829 Joseph Lapham built the first sawmill in Salem township. Long before he laid out and platted his village Judge Dexter had built a dam across Mill creek and, on the west side, had erected a sawmill. This was the beginning of mills in the western part of the county. Immediately upon completion of that mill he erected a grist mill on the east side of the creek. In 1829 the distillery of Hawley, Nash & Company was started at Ann Arbor. In 1832 Dexter and Pomeroy built a sawmill on the site of the Dover Mills (built in 1846) in Dexter township. The same year John K. Bingham built a sawmill in Lima township and two years later, 1834, Shaw and Arnold built a sawmill in the same township. In 1835 Charles Starks began making pumps in Webster township, and in the following year Millard, Matthews and Bond built their grist mill in that township. In Manchester, in the year 1832, Emanuel Case had built a sawmill and John Gilbert, a grist mill. In 1834 tanning was done by Julius Ranney in Scio township. In 1838 a woolen mill was started in Scio township and operated for twelve or thirteen years by Jesse Millard and son, when it was sold to Rice A. Beal & Company, and in 1869 became the property of Luther Palmer. In 1879 the firm became Luther Palmer & Son. At the same time the woolen mill was started in Scio township a sawmill was built. In 1840 Albert Guest began the manufacture of harness in that township. In 1850 a copper shop was established by Alexander Souler in the same township, and a blast furnace was built by I. V. Wakeman in the village. In 1864 Wakeman sold out to Hicks and Ludlow. In connection with the furnace, agricultural implements were manufactured. This plant was burned in 1870. In Ann Arbor, in 1850, Henry Krause built a tannery on the corner of William and Second streets and began the manufacture of leather. His business had grown to such a degree that, in 1868, he was compelled to build a much larger plant to take the place of the original frame building. In that year he erected a brick building, 30x120 feet, and two stories high. In 1881 the plant was outfitted with modern machinery and steam power put in, and, in that year they were using about 225 cords of oak bark, with fifty vats and leaches in use. All kinds of leather was made but the large per cent of the production was harness leather. In 1851 Jacob Heinzman started a tannery at the corner of Jefferson and Third streets in Ann Arbor. His building was 50x60 and two HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 77 stories high, with thirty vats and leaches. After a few years the firm became Jacob Heinzman & Son. In 1855 a soap factory was started in Ann Arbor by Andrew Birk, in a little 8x8 room. In 1880 he built a 93x30, two-story factory. Birk, besides making soap, turned out from eighty to one hundred barrels of potash each year. In 1861 Peter Brehm and John Reier built a brewery in Ann Arbor on West Fourth street between Liberty and Madison. The buildings burned in 1864 and new ones were erected on the same site. After several changes in ownership the plant was purchased by Matt Fisher in 1880. This brewery was known as the Western Brewery. In 1864 another small soap factory was started in Ann Arbor on Pontiac street by D. S. Miller. In 1867 Lewis M. Moore and son, Eli W., and Finnegan and Howard began the manufacture of agricultural implements in Ann Arbor. Two years later the two firms combined and in 1878 became the Ann Arbor Agricultural Works, with J. A. Scott, president; G. W. Knight, treasurer; Earl Knight, secretary, and John Finnegan as manager. They made the "Advance Plow" and an improved feed cutter. In 1870 another cooper shop was started in Scio township by Silas Thrasher. In the same year, 1870, John Rauschenberger built a one and a half story building, 30x40, and began the manufacture of furniture which he operated until 1877. The machinery of this plant in Ann Arbor was run by steam power. In 1877 it was sold to Thomas Rauschenberger & Company. The plant was located on Jewett street between Liberty and Huron. In 1871 B. B. Williams erected and operated a planing mill and manufactured sashes, doors, mouldings and farm rollers. In 1872 the "Northern Brewery" was built on Mill street, in Ann Arbor, by George Krause, but Krause sold the brewery the same year to the Frey brothers, John and Fred. The two operated the brewery one year and then Fred sold his interest to John, who continued its operation. In 1867 G. F. Gartner & Son established an Organ Works in Ann Arbor in which the work on the instruments manufactured was done by hand. This firm continued the manufacture of organs for five years but finally discontinued. When that firm had quit, in 1872, D. F. Allmendinger, who had learned the business while working for Gartner, started the Ann Arbor Organ Works, manufacturing pipe and reed organs of a good quality. In 1888 the company turned out seventy-five organs and had twelve men employed. In 1906 they were producing 300 organs and fifty pianos each month. In that year Fred Schmidt was president; G. Lynch, vice-president, and J. C. Henderson, secretary, treasurer and manager. The Ann Arbor organ and the Henderson piano were the products of the concern. In 1866 John Kech began the manufacture of furniture in Ann Arbor. In 1879 he organized a new company for the manufacture of high-grade furniture with W. D. Harriman, president; Charles Hiscock, treasurer, and John Kech, general superintendent. A three-story building, 40x75, and one 40x20, two stories, were erected on Third street and equipped with modern machinery. The plant was operated by steam. In 1884 this concern became the Michigan Furniture Company. In 1865 Dodsley & Spafford began the manufacture of apple, flour 78 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY and other tight barrels on Detroit street where they continued until 1879 when Spafford sold to Dodsley. The following year Dodsley moved the plant to Pontiac street near the Michigan Central station. One of the early manufacturers of Washtenaw county, to whom the county is much indebted for its present wealth and development, was Volney Chapin. Chapin, the son of Gad and Deborah Chapin, was born in Burlington, Vermont, in 1803. His early youth was spent on the farm where he had little opportunity to acquire much of an education, being compelled to work on the farm during the farming season and going to the neighborhood country schools in the winter months. He became apprenticed to blacksmith when he was seventeen years old, but not appreciating the harsh treatment given him by his master he decamped, going to another place and finding a new master. He apprenticed himself at the works of Jethru Wood, Moravia, New York, who, it is claimed, invented the cast-iron plow. Here he learned the trade and for some time afterwards was employed as journeyman. Ambitious and energetic he soon became interested in plants of which he was part owner, the first in Ogdensburg, New York, where he continued until 1831. Disposing of his interests in the Ogdensburg plant he removed to Rochester, in the same state, where he started a furnace. He remained at the latter place two years and in 1833 he came to this state and located at Ann Arbor. Samuel A. Sperry had just completed his furnace at that place and this Mr. Chapin purchased. He induced Jonathan Hussey, a practical furnace man of Moravia, New York, to join him in the enterprise and a partnership was formed, which continued until 1843 or 1844, under the firm name of V. Chapin & Company. During the first few years, up to 1839, when the railroad was completed to Ann Arbor, all coal and iron used by manufacturers at that point, had to be brought from Detroit in wagons over miserable roads, requiring five or six days for the trip. At Detroit anthracite coal sold for $24 per ton. In spite of all disadvantages the business of V. Chapin & Company constantly grew in volume and the name of Ann Arbor became familiar in adjoining states. Plows and mill machinery were manufactured and it is said that the firm made most of the gearing and machinery for nearly all the mills in the state. At the dissolution of the firm Mr. Chapin operated the plant alone for three years, employing sixty men in the manufacture of plows, mill machinery, sawmill engines and boilers, threshing machines and separaters, stoves and almost anything else in iron that would likely be required by the inhabitants. In 1846 the firm became Chapin & Loomis and later, Chapin, Tripp & Loomis. In 1859 Mr. Chapin retired from the business. The plow and machinery plant was not the only concern brought forth by Chapin's untiring energy and enterprise. In 1844 he and George Ward, who had been his partner back in New York, built the "Spring Mills." In 1846 he and Daniel D. Sloan bought the water power of S. W. Dexter, known as the "Yellow Mills" and built the "Dover Mills." He became interested, in 1851, in the paper mills in the lower town but only retained his interest a few months, selling to his son. In 1854 he helped build HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 79 the paper mill at Geddes. He was interested in many other manufacturing and lumbering enterprises outside the county. Mr. Chapin died in 1872 highly esteemed by his acquaintances, business associates and employes. On a preceding page mention is made of the Keck Furniture Company established in 1866. In 1884 this concern was incorporated with W. D. Harriman, as president, and Charles Hiscock, as secretary, and the name changed by a vote of the directors to the Michigan Furniture Company. Upon the resignation of Mr. Harriman as president, Leonard Miller, the present incumbent, was elected to that office. In 1920, at the death of Mr. Hiscock, John Mayer became secretary and treasurer. John Mayer became connected with the Keck Company in 1872 and for fifty-two years maintained the connection, beginning as cabinet maker, a trade he had learned under Flora Fuehlit in a little shop Mr. Fuehlit operated between Liberty and Washington streets in an alley. Serving his apprenticeship there of three years he went to work for Keck. Mr. Mayer became foreman, then superintendent and finally secretary and treasurer. In January, 1925, he retired from active business, his son, John E., becoming superintendent and treasurer, and Edward E. Sleezer, secretary. The company for years has devoted its energies to the production of bedroom furniture and given employment to many people. This year the company is enlarging its field and are making radio cabinets. The plant is one of Ann Arbor's largest institutions and is a connecting link between the very old plants of the town and the new. The Ann Arbor Asphalt Construction Company is one of the leading enterprises of its kind in this section of the state. Employing 100 men on the average, the company has played a prominent part in the asphalt paving that has been promoted in this county and several of the surrounding counties in this region. The company was incorporated in April, 1920, with a capitalization of $75,000. Influential in the organization of the firm were the present officers, namely: Manley Osgood, president and general manager, and Rudolph E. Reichert, secretary and treasurer. The Michigamme Oil Company is the oldest gasoline and lubricating oil distributing concern in the state of Michigan with the exception of the Standard Oil Company. This concern was organized for the purpose of marketing petroleum products of all kinds, wholesale and retail, and handles a complete line of motor fuels and lubricants, not only for automotive vehicles but for factories as well. Ann Arbor and Marshall were chosen as points for warehouses for bulk storage of the firm's products for distribution in its territory, which extends from Battle Creek, on the west, to Wayne, Michigan, on the east. It was organized to succeed the firm of Dean & Company, established in 1882, and laboratories are maintained by the company in order that only the highest grades of fuels and lubricating oils may be sold through their stations. In 1922, after the organization of the present corporation, the Michigamme Oil Company was the smallest distributor in its 80 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY field, but the recent period has witnessed an unprecedented growth, and the company is now second to none in its territory. The present officers of the company are: J. J. Cox, president; R. A. Loveland, vicepresident, and A. M. Cox, secretary and treasurer. The Ann Arbor Foundry Company, manufacturing castings of all kinds, was incorporated in June, 1921, and capitalized for $15,000. The concern employs on an average of thirty-four men throughout the year, and the fact that the concern is a year-round enterprise has been a great asset to the manufacturing element of the city. The present officers are: Clarence Staundemaier, president, and Albert F. Dosey, secretary and treasurer, both of whom were instrumental in the establishment of the business. The Automatic Products Company, though one of the newer corporations now operating in Ann Arbor, can lay claim to being one of the most thriving industries in the city. Screw machine products are turned out by the concern, which has found a wide demand for its products. It was incorporated in 1923 for $100,000, and the officers are: John J. Sinn, president, and Mrs. Nadine E. Sinn, treasurer. A leader in its particular service to the public of Ann Arbor and the surrounding parts of the county is the Artificial Ice Company of Ann Arbor, Michigan, which was incorporated in May, 1909, with a capital stock of $45,000. Coal and wood have been handled by the company in addition to the manufacture and distribution of ice, and the enterprise is well liked among the people it serves for the way in which it attends to the needs of its patrons. The officers of the company are: William Arnold, Jr., president; Louis C. Weinmann, vice-president; C. John Walz, treasurer, and Eugene J. Heinzmann, secretary and manager. Soda fountain supplies, wholesale eggs, butter and oleomargerine, are handled by the Connors Ice Cream Company in addition to its business of manufacturing ice cream, a line in which it is the admitted leader in Ann Arbor. Under the able management of A. L. McDonald, the firm has enjoyed a healthy and steady growth, and the modern and thoroughly equipped plant at 416 Fourth street is a monument to the enduring policies pursued by the officers of the company. About twenty men are employed by this concern. In the manufacturing of steel balers, the Economy Baler Company has risen to a place of prominence in the industrial life of Ann Arbor during the past twelve years of its existence. It was incorporated in May, 1913, in order that the increasing volume of the company's business might be better handled and the increased production be brought about. An average of seventy men are employed by the baler company, which is capitalized for $400,000 and whose officers are: George W. Langford, president; William Goodyear, vice-president; Arthur G. Judson, secretary, and Erwin E. Schmind, treasurer. The plant is located at 1254 North Main street. The King-Seeley Corporation is rapidly rising to prominence not only in the manufacturing circles of Ann Arbor but among the concerns of the nation engaged in the manufacture of automobile accessories. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 81 Gasoline guages are the product of this enterprise and are rapidly finding favor among the automotive engineers of the country. The officers of the company are: H. H. Seeley, president; R. R. Seeley, vice-president; H. W. King, secretary, and D. E. Seeley, treasurer. The company has recently taken over the plant of the late Motor Parts Corporation, a building that is admirably equipped for the manufacture of the instruments produced by the King-Seeley Corporation. About seventy-five men are employed by the company. Two radically different products, piston rings and radio equipment, are manufactured by the Machine Specialty Company, which maintains two plants for this purpose, employing approximately fifty men. One of the plants is located at 1200 N. Main street and the second is on Wildt street. Capitalized for $135,000, the concern was incorporated in 1914. Its officers are: Edward O. Wenk, president; Albert H. Wenk, vice-president, and Frank E. Royce, secretary, treasurer and general manager. One of the county's largest industrial plants is the Hoover Steel Ball Company, located on Hoover avenue at the intersection of that avenue and the Ann Arbor Railroad. This company was organized through the efforts of L. J. Hoover and several of Ann Arbor's progressive business men. Mr. Hoover was engaged in the manufacturing business in Philadelphia prior to his coming to Pontiac, this state, to take charge of the Metal Ball Division of the Flanders plants in that city and in Chelsea. He had been with the Cleveland (Ohio) Ball Bearing Company and with the Stewart Roller Bearing Company. The Flanders plants failing, Mr. Hoover came to Ann Arbor and formed the Hoover Steel Ball Company with H. W. Douglas as president; M. J. Fritz, treasurer; D. F. Zimmerman, secretary, and R. F. Dobson, Walter Mack, Edward Graves, Frank Stivers, Louie P. Hall, William Arnold, Jr., and R. B. Canfield as directors. The company bought the ball plant at Chelsea and moved it to Ann Arbor locating in a small building near the site of their present fine works. The company employed about forty people in the plant at the beginning, a number which has been increased more than ten-fold in the twelve years of its existence. In 1915 the company began its building of new factory units and today the Hoover Company is housed in up-to-date buildings ranking with the best in the country. Mr. Hoover, who had been made vice-president and general manager of the company, became president of the company in 1917, but lived only about a year after that time. At his death H. D. Runciman, who had been assistant general manager, was made secretary and general manager. Walter Mack was made president, Frank Stiver, vice-president, and William Arnold, Jr., assistant secretary. C. W. Lighthall is the factory manager and a member of the board of directors. The company has recently bought the Imperial Bearing Company of Detroit, adding the lines formerly produced by that company to that of their own. The company manufactures stainless steel balls, brass, aluminum and steel balls and roller bearings for automobiles, bicycles, roller skates, lawn mowers, oil well machinery, harvesting machinery-in fact, for anything 82 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY requiring reduction of friction in bearings. The company also operate and own a branch plant in Chelsea, having floor space of 19,500 square feet. The main plant in Ann Arbor has floor space of 131,000 square feet. Gradually the old-time "grist mills," once so necessary to the welfare of the people, gave way to more modern and more profitable means of producing flour. In 1900 a company was organized with H. S. Dean, as president, W. C. Stevens as vice-president, Frank Allmendinger as secretary and treasurer, and Nelson J. Kyer, as manager, for the purpose of manufacturing flour in Ann Arbor. For this purpose three old mills were consolidated under the name of the Michigan Milling Company. The three mills were the Ann Arbor Milling Company, the Kyer Milling Company and the Central Mills, with their elevators in different localities. The Ann Arbor Milling Company owned the old Argo Mills in the fifth ward and the Central elevator at Owosso, and operating one at Cohoctah. The Kyer Company owned the City Mills and Delhi Mills. The three mills thus consolidated had in their earlier days driven out the old water power and stone mills and were now themselves to give place to modern ways. The old Argo mill was one of the first to be built in Ann Arbor and was located near the Ann Arbor Railroad bridge. In its pioneer days it was driven by water power. The City mills was built in the early seventies and the Central mills in 1883 by Mr. Allmendinger. The new company operates their plant with electric power. Eberbach & Son Company, Inc., dealers in drugs, chemicals and manufacturers of scientific instruments, dates back to 1843 when Christian Eberbach, who had come to this country from Germany, in partnership with Emanuel Mann, started a drug store at what is now 112 South Main street. Ottmar Eberbach, a son of Christian, who had received a technical education in Germany, joined his father in 1868 upon the retirement of Mr. Mann, and the firm became Eberbach & Son. Beginning the manufacture of laboratory equipment in a small way the firm became known all over the civilized world and the business expanded until it occupies the entire four-story building at the corner of Liberty street and Fourth avenue, which was erected in 1907. In 1915 the business was incorporated under the name of Eberbach & Son, Inc., of which Ottmar Eberbach was the head. Upon his death in 1921 the officers became Ralph H. Miller, president; Oscar A. Eberbach, treasurer and general manager, and Oscar Haarer, secretary. It is one of the oldest firms engaged in their line in this part of the country. For ninety years where the Goodyear Drug Company stands, at 107 South Main street, a drug business has been carried on continuously, without break or intermission, only as fire destroyed the building, or new timbers or alterations gave replacement to the old. This maintenance of one business in one place for so long a period is unique in the business affairs of Ann Arbor, and holds a record in the state. The government transferred to a Mr. Klinedob, in 1833, the land where the Goodyear Drug Company now stands. Robert P. Chase obtained it from Klinedob in 1836, starting a drug store on the location. In 1844 he sold it to Campbell and Hickcox. In 1845 George Granville came HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 83 into possession of the store from Campbell and Hickcox, and maintained a drug store there for a number of years. Later he took in his head clerk, John Fuller, as partner, and the firm became Granville & Fuller. In 1874, Emmanuel Mann, who since 1848 had been in partnership with Christian Eberbach under the firm name of Eberbach & Company, was established for a time in the Granville store, until he removed to his own store, in the location later occupied by his sons. It next became the property of the late Rice A. Beal, father of Regent Junius E. Beal. The Beal property as it was known for some time, came into possession of Rice Beal, through the foreclosure of a mortgage given by George and Emma L. Granville, June 20, 1873, a commissioner's deed being issued to Rice A. Beal, in 1879, from Emma L., George H. and Thomas B. Granville and Sarah J. and Mary B. Ellsworth and Martha J. Chase. J. J. Goodyear, when he came from the east to make Ann Arbor his home, purchased the drug stock in 1880 from Rice A. Beal, and later bought the store property from the heirs of Mr. Beal, Phoebe Beal, Junius E. Beal and James E. Beal, April 30, 1892. Since the advent of. Mr. Goodyear, forty-five years ago, the property has been known as the Goodyear Drug Company, other proprietors buying out the stock, but the property still remaining in Mr. Goodyear's possession. In 1914 when Dr. J. J. Goodyear retired from the drug business, Dr. Robert B. Honey, of Dexter, bought the stock and was proprietor there for six years. On December 7, 1920, Frederick H. Stegath, the present owner, purchased the stock of Dr. Honey and is the proprietor of this wellknown firm. It is interesting to note that the business under the Goodyear regime, evolved three independent and flourishing businesses, promoted by men who had been leading druggists in the Goodyear employ. There is the Quarry Drug store on State street, now owned by Claude Drake, but established by the late James Quarry, who for several years was head prescription clerk at Goodyear's. In Detroit, John Schlee, formerly with the Goodyear firm, has a very distinctive business. And there is Tice's at North University, John Tice having been with the Goodyear firm thirteen or fourteen years, and ten years in business for himself, since has sold his drug store and has a confectionery store on North University. The Goodyear Drug Company deals in surgical instruments and scarcely a day passes that doctors from out of the city do not call here for surgical instruments, microscopes or office equipment. The store is unique in that it is essentially a hospital, medical and surgical store in addition to a retail drug store, furnishing hospital and medical supplies and surgical instruments to hospitals and doctors. When the state board of health at Lansing appointed certain stores throughout Michigan for supplies of anti-toxins and vaccines this store was selected and still is the state depository of anti-toxins and vaccines, and here physicians from all over the county get their supply. All the anti-toxins, vaccines and biologicals are kept on ice the year round. It is also unique in that it has a most complete stock of trusses of every description and gives a guarantee fit on every truss. A complete up-todate stock of elastic hosiery, abdominal supports and elastic anklets and supporters of every kind are always at the call of the customer. The 84 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY history of the Goodyear Drug Company is one that makes a valuable addition to the interest and the local history of Ann Arbor. Perhaps no other store is unique in the same way, or can claim affiliation with more prominent men than have been its associates: Granville, Fuller, the Beals, Eberbach, Goodyear, Dr. Honey, the late J. J. Quarry, and last, but still retaining the high standards, Frederick H. Stegath. The Westgate Manufacturing Company is another one of the new industrial plants to locate in Ann Arbor and is located at the corner of Hoover and Division. The company employs about 100 persons and manufactures furniture specialties. The company had its origin in 1915 when the partnership did business at the corner of Franklin and DuBois, in Detroit, under the name of the Westgate-Pringle Company. Mr. Pringle very shortly sold his interest and the name was changed to the present one of Westgate Manufacturing Company. In 1920 Mr. Westgate removed the plant to Ann Arbor, buying the property now occupied. The products of the company are shipped all over the United States. Harry E. Westgate is the president and general manager, In the American Broach & Machine Company, Ann Arbor possesses a plant that would be a credit to any city in the country. Francis J. Lapointe and D. A. DeLong associated themselves in a close corporation in 1918, rented quarters in the city and began the manufacture of broaching equipment used practically by all automobile industries, machine manufacturers and, in fact, by all metal cutting trades in general. In 1919 the company built the present extensive and modern shops having 24,000 square feet of floor space and employ at this time about eighty-five men. The products are shipped to Japan, Australia, all parts of Europe and the United States. There are only three factories of the kind in the United States and this is the largest west of New England. The company manufactures a complete line of the most modern broaching machines and broaching tools. The Atlas Steel Corporation plant on Green street, formerly the Forge Products Corporation, is the only plant in the world in which high-speed steel drop forgings for tools are manufactured exclusively. There are other concerns which turn out the same products but only in connection with other manufacturing. The Forge Products Corporation was organized in Ann Arbor in 1919 and constructed the building it now occupies. During the month of February, 1925, the plant was sold to the Atlas Steel Corporation, which had headquarters at Dunkirk, New York, and agencies throughout the county. At headquarters, the corporation has a three million dollar plant. The local factory is one of two branches, the other branch being located in Canada. About twentyfive thousand dollars worth of drop forgings are turned out each month here by the twelve men now employed. Carl Anderson, who came to Ann Arbor five years ago as manager of the Forge Products Corporation plant, is continuing in that capacity with the Atlas corporation. One of the busiest manufacturing plants in Ann Arbor is that of Wild & Company. An average of six hundred suits of men's clothing, ranging from tuxedos to golf wear, are manufactured each year at this plant at 311 South State street. Approximately forty per cent of these I 7\I E HI (IUt) I STI 01,1) 1}E' (),I>,ES' IIMOI'llt- (C IIELISEA OFFICI( FLANDERS. IANtFIAC''[RIN G CO., C IIELSEA HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 85 are sold outside of Ann Arbor, suits having been sent to customers as far south as Peru, South America, and as far north as Alaska and to many points in the United States. The G. H. Wild Company was organized in Ann Arbor in 1888 by G. H. Wild, who continued in the business until his death in 1923. Originally, only outer garments were made, but a few years ago the sale of men's furnishings was begun. At this time the firm became known as Wild & Company. In 1924 a branch store was opened in Ypsilanti. Eleven persons, each one specialized in some particular line of the suit making industry, are employed the year round. The Chelsea Screw Company is the largest of its kind in Washtenaw county and one of the largest in the state. It was organized in 1913 with a capital of nine thousand dollars and began business in the Mack building on North Main street. April 11, 1916, the company was reorganized with a capital of fifty thousand dollars and employed twenty men, four times as many as when first organized. Today the company employs a hundred men in its large factory on South Main street. The building contains more than twenty-four thousand feet of floor space and more than one hundred and fifty machines are in operation almost all of each working day. From three to four carloads of brass rods and four carloads of steel rods are required each month in the manufacture of a variety of screw machine products. Under the capable management of its officers the company has made consistent progress and they have never employed salesmen to dispose of their products. No labor troubles have ever been encountered because modern equipment, satisfactory working conditions and humane treatment by the officers of the company have resulted in satisfied workmen. The present officers of the company are: M. J. Dunkel, president and manager, and has held this position since the organization of the company; P. G. Schible, secretary and treasurer; Edward Vogel, vice-president, and John Kalmbach and Howard S. Holmes, directors. CHAPTER VI BANKS IN reviewing the manufacturing and commercial interests of a community the financial interest cannot be overlooked. In the early days banks were not looked up with much favor in this country, at least in this territory or for sometime after Michigan became a state. Prior to 1837 there were sixteen banks doing business throughout Michigan when the legislature enacted a law providing for the incorporation of such institutions. That law provided that any number of men might associate together, subscribe for capital stock, and by filing articles of association with the county clerk become ready for business. A deposit must be made for the protection of depositors and patrons, specie being required by the original enabling act, but afterwards a statute was enacted permitting the deposit to be in the form of a bond secured by real estate. The result was that hundreds of banks were organized and nearly every little hamlet had its bank. Property of all kinds was quoted at greatly inflated prices and unimproved lands, valued for the purpose at three or four times its actual worth, became the security for the bonds permitted to be deposited upon organization of a bank. These banks were popularly known as "wild cat" banks and the old banks as "chartered" banks. It has been seen that Ann Arbor was the location of one of these "wild cat" banks, operated by Charles Thayer, but to his credit, be it said, it was honestly run and no one lost through doing business with it. Another was at a little village between Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, long since out of existence as a town, one at Ypsilanti, one at Saline, one at Manchester and another at the boom town of Sharon, a town also not existing today. The history and results of these "wild cat" banks are of peculiar interest to the people of Washtenaw county for the reason that two of its citizens were the originators of the plan under which they were authorized to exist. It seems that two mill owners of Scio, in this county, applied at a bank in Detroit for a loan as they were in need of money with which to buy wheat. Not being able to accommodate them the bank referred them to a money-lender. Here they obtained what they wanted after submitting to quite a "shave." The transaction so impressed the two men that, after returning home, they conceived a plan for doing a banking business, showed the plan to friends, and then the legislature was petitioned to enact a law permitting the organization of banks under their plan. In the matter of the action of the legislature Washtenaw again figured, for Representative Felch, from that county, vigorously fought the measure, but without avail. It was upon the opening of these "wild cat" banks that the speculative craze for starting new towns began. The results were disastrous and the "people" were the sufferers. The law under which these banks were permitted to do business provided: "It HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 87 shall not be lawful for any such banking association to issue, or have outstanding or in circulation as money, exceeding twice and a half the amount of its stock then paid in and actually possessed; nor shall its loans and discounts at any time exceed twice and a half the amount of its capital stock so paid in and possessed." The law also provided that a certain amount of specie must be kept in the vaults of the bank but this provision was shamefully evaded. The same specie served for exhibition in many different banks when visited by bank examiners. The bonds and mortgages which were deposited were upon city lots in the woods or on real estate at fictitious valuation. These banks over the state put out a much larger circulation than the law allowed. The officers of the state strove honestly to do their duty and prevent such frauds but they seemed to be powerless until Mr. Felch, of Washtenaw county, was prevailed upon to become one of the bank commissioners. It had not only been the custom of these bankers, in their effort to deceive the examiners, to borrow, temporarily, one another's boxes of specie, but when they run short of specie, they would fill a box with scrap iron and put the coins on top. When the new commissioner came round this man from Washtenaw was not to be deceived for he would deliberately empty the contents of those boxes on the floor and thus expose the fraud. When the bubble burst the amount of notes of these banks over the entire state amounted to millions of dollars, said to have been about $300 for each man, woman and child in the state and there can be no wonder that, in those days, banks were unpopular institutions. A prominent banker said recently: "Looking over the field now it is hard to understand how men of ordinary wisdom and prudence were led into this wild scheme of universal banking. But they suffered intensely for it. The county, which was filling up with a stirring eastern population, received a check to her immigration and to her commercial prosperity from which she did not soon recover. But the lesson was not lost on Michigan. Upon the ruins of that utterly prostrated credit she builded so wisely that now no state enjoys greater prosperity or has a more enviable reputation for financial soundess." Many years elapsed before Ann Arbor citizens had the courage to start a bank. Soon after the passage of the National Bank Law, or to be exact, July 1, 1863, the First National Bank of Ann Arbor was organized with a capital stock of $75,000 owned by fifty or sixty of the leading business men of the community. Volney Chapin, who had been a resident of the city for thirty years and an enterprising and successful manufacturer, was the first president, being succeeded two years later by Ebenezer Wells, who remained the bank's president for many years. This was the first national bank that was organized in the state. Mr. Wells was the first vice-president and Charles H. Richmond, its first cashier. At the end of the first quarter the statement of the bank's condition as of September 1, 1863, showed resources of $127,718.50, balanced by liabilities of the same amount. In 1865 the capital stock was increased to $100,000 and a year later to $125,000 and again, in 1869, to $150,000. In 1866 the bank built a three-story building on South Main street and in the same year J. W. Knight succeeded 88 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Mr. Richmond as cashier. The property of the bank is shown by comparative statements. The one given out in October, 1880, shows resources and liabilities of $470,920.95. In 1882 Mr. Richmond succeeded Mr. Wells as president of the First National, the position being held by him for the following thirteen years. In 1895 Judge E. D. Kinne became its president, and Harrison Soule, vice-president. J. W. Knight, after serving seventeen years as the bank's cashier, resigned and was succeeded by Sydney W. Clarkson in 1883. Professor George W. Patterson succeeded Judge Kinne as president in 1922. In 1919 Mr. Clarkson retired as cashier and was succeeded by Robert F. Gauss. The growth of the First National of Ann Arbor is shown by its statement of June 30, 1925, as follows: RESOURCES Loans and Discounts.........................................................$ 948,272.98 Bonds and Securities............................................................ 127,202.00 Real Estate........................................................................ 16,000.00 Furniture and Fixtures.................................................... 6,500.00 Due from U. S. Treasurer........................................... 7,500.00 O verdrafts............................................................................. 61.41 Customers Liabilities on Letters of Credit...... 25,782.82 Bills in Transit.................................................................... 62.50 U. S. Bonds and Cash......................................................... 882,856.90 $2,014,238.61 LIABILITIES Capital Stock...................................................................$ 150,000.00 Surplus Fund....................................................... 50,000.00 Undivided Profits............................................ 33,666.16 Circulating Notes........................................................ 146,500.00 Cashiers' Checks..................... 4,108.25 Certified Checks............................................................... 7.75 Dividends unpaid....................................................... 962.00 Letters of Credit................................................................. 25,782.45 Deposits..................................................................... 1,603,211.63 $2,014,238.61 In May, 1869, the Ann Arbor Savings Bank was organized with R. S. Smith, who had retired that year as vice-president of the First National, president, and Schuyler Grant, cashier. At the close of business, November 30, 1869, its statement shows resources of $163,469.02. All its stockholders were substantial business men and were: T. M. Cooley, famous as an attorney, jurist and author; Christian Mack, E. W. Morgan, C. T. Wilmot, W. W. Wines and M. Rogers. Dr. Smith remained as the bank's executive officer until his death in 1876 with the exception of about a year and a half when Judge Cooley served. After the death of Dr. Smith, Christian Mack became the president. In 1874 Mr. Grant resigned as cashier and was succeeded soon afterwards by Charles E. Hiscock, although Mr. Hiscock was, at the time, HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 89 only twenty-one years of age but of demonstrated ability. The bank was first located, and so remained for ten years, on the southeast corner of Main and Huron, but in 1879 removed to its present quarters on the northwest corner of the same streets. Mr. Hiscock served as cashier of the Ann Arbor Savings Bank from 1876 to 1904, the latter year succeeding Mr. Mack as president. Mr. Hiscock was succeeded as cashier by Michael J. Fritz, and, in 1920 when Mr. Hiscock died, Mr. Fritz became president. This bank has the largest business of the banking houses of the city of Ann Arbor and its remarkable growth since its organization in 1869 is shown by its statement as of June 30, 1925: RESOURCES Loans and Discounts.........................................................$2,458,161.67 Bonds and Mortgages................................................ 2,332,198.71 O verdrafts........................................................................... 359.92 Banking Houses................................................................ 136,500.00 Furniture and Fixtures...................................................... 11,955.50 Other Real Estate.............................................................. 17,754.14 Item s in transit........................................................................... 5,393.52 United States Bonds............................................................ 125,000.00 Cash resources......................................................................... 979,465.98 $6,066,789.44 LIABILITIES Capital.........................................................................................$ 300,000.00 Surplus............................................................................................. 300,000.00 Undivided Profits.................................................................. 143,282.50 Dividends Unpaid................................................................. 7,428.75 Reserved for Taxes........................................................... 3,134.45 Commercial Department.............................................. 1,826,226.17 Bank Deposits......................................................................... 123,779.54 Savings Deposits........................................................... 3,362,938.03 $6,066,789.44 The prosperity of the Ann Arbor Savings Bank is due, to a large extent, to the integrity and business qualifications of its five presidents and their respective staffs, and the bank is happy in the realization that it has contributed its full share to the prosperity of the community. It has held unalterably to conservative banking principles. It has never invested funds in speculative ventures or dealt in securities of doubtful value. It has believed in home development and accordingly has freely employed its funds in fostering local.financial interests of solid worth. No officer or director has ever used its funds for purposes of speculation or to carry on his private business, nor has there ever been, during the fifty-six years of its history, a single instance of dishonesty among its employes. The constantly increasing prosperity of the Ann Arbor Savings Bank has steadily added to its prestige in the financial world, until its present clientele embraces correspondence and depositors from every state in the Union. Dr. R. S. Smith, the bank's first president, 90 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY settled in Ann Arbor in 1858 and entered the mercantile business and attained immediate success as a shrewd and careful business man. The story of the career of Judge Cooley, the bank's president, is given elsewhere. Christian Mack, for twenty-six years president of this bank, came to America from Wurtenburg, Germany, at the age of seventeen and settled in Ann Arbor in 1851, taking employment in the store of Mr. Ainslie. Six years later he established a dry goods business of his own which, later, became Mack & Company. He held the presidency of the bank from 1875 until his death in 1901 with the exception of the short time Judge Cooley occupied the position. He was distinguished for his prudence and conservatism and for his quick and unerring judgment in recognizing merit in others and was thus able to associate with himself men of unquestionable loyalty and integrity. The fourth president, Mr. Hiscock, was a native of Ann Arbor. He received his education in the city schools and began his bank career with the Ann Arbor Savings Bank during the same year it was organized, as a messenger; being then fifteen years of age. When he became twenty-one he was made its cashier. He held many political offices in the city, more to be able to advance the interests of the community rather than his own and to him must be given credit of Ann Arbor's splendid streets. In 1874, at the time Mr. Hiscock became cashier, another Washtenaw county boy, born in Scio township, but at the time living with his parents in Ann Arbor, obtained the position as messenger in the bank and, by reason of his sterling qualifications which foretold his future development as one of the leading bankers of our state, rose, through the intermediate positions to those of assistant cashier in 1892 and cashier and director in 1901. Mr. Fritz is also a director in the First National Bank of Ann Arbor, one of the incorporators of the Hoover Steel Ball Company, of which he is treasurer, a director of the Liberty Street Building Company, a director in the Seneca Power Corporation of New York state and many other business enterprises and corporations, but he devotes almost all of his time to the bank. In 1917 William L. Walz became cashier. He was another seventeen-yearold boy who left high school to accept a position as messenger boy in this bank. He was also an Ann Arbor native son, having been born in that city in July, 1874, the year Mr. Hiscock became cashier and Mr. Fritz a messenger. Joining the personnel of the bank in 1891 Mr. Walz served in all the preliminary positions until he became assistant cashier in 1905. In 1916 he became cashier. The Ann Arbor Savings Bank maintains a branch on North University avenue for the accommodation of its patrons in that part of the city. The Farmers and Mechanics Bank of Ann Arbor was organized in 1883 with Reuben Kempf, as president, and W. A. Tolchard, as cashier. Mr. Tolchard served as the cashier of this bank until 1888 when he was succeeded by Fred H. Belser. Mr. Belser remained for twenty years and was succeeded, in 1908, by Herbert A. Williams. In 1912 the president of the bank, Mr. Kempf, died, having held the position for seventeen years. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 91 In that year Mr. Williams, the present executive of this banking institution, succeeded Mr. Kempf as president. F. T. Stowe became cashier. Prior to 1900 the bank occupied an old building near the corner of Main and Huron but in that year a new bank building was erected. In 1920 the adjoining property, the southeast corner of the streets named, was secured and the present fine bank erected. The bank operates a branch at 330 State street for the accommodation of the business in that part of the city. That the bank has enjoyed the confidence of the people and a splendid patronage is shown by the statement of that business as of June 30, 1925: RESOURCES Loans and Discounts,.................................................$1,744,921.90 Bonds and Mortgages....................................................... 1,361,392.94 Overdrafts........................................................................... 5,784.37 Banking House........................................................... 125,000.00 Furniture and Fixtures............................................. 31,246.78 Other real estate...........7.................................................... 7,271.94 Stock in Federal Reserve Bank................................. 9,000.00 Cash on hand and in banks......................................... 566,742.87 $3,851,360.80 LIABILITIES Capital Stock......................................... $ 200,000.00 Surplus.......................................................... 100,000.00 Undivided Profits....................................... 60,230.88 Total Deposits................................................................ 3,306,129.92 Bills Payable.......................................................... 185,000.00 $3,851,360.80 The State Savings Bank was incorporated in November, 1892, with A. L. Noble as its first president and Robert Phillips its first cashier. Mr. Noble was succeeded in 1897 by W. J. Booth and C. John Walz became the cashier, succeeding Mr. Phillips in 1903. In 1918 William Arnold succeeded Mr. Booth as president. In 1925 C. John Walz was made president and Mr. Walz was succeeded by R. E. Reichart as cashier. The wonderful growth of this Ann Arbor bank is shown in the following statement of its condition at the close of business, June 30, 1925: RESOURCES Loans and Discounts........................................................$1,616,356.86 Bonds and Mortgages............................. 2,717,339.64 Overdrafts.............................................. 1,275.27 Banking House.............. 75,000.00 Furniture and Fixtures........................ 23,500.00 Liberty Bonds....................... 326,852.00 Cash and due from banks........................... 495,606.95 $5,280,780.72 92 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY LIABILITIES Capital Stock -._.$.....$ 300,000.00 Surplus..................... 300,000.00 Undivided Profits -........ 51,968.04 Dividends........................ 24,176.00 Reserved for taxes....................... 9,008.81 Deposits......................................... 4,595,627.87 $5,280,780.72 The Ann Arbor Finance Company, a private banking house, was organized and incorporated October 13, 1922, with a capital stock of $100,000. The officers chosen for the first year were: Jay G. Pray, president; W. A. Taylor, vice-president; M. D. Lamed, treasurer; A. L. McDonald, secretary, and Mr. Todd, manager. Mr. Lamed died in 1924 and was succeeded as treasurer by Dana E. Hiscock. In 1925 R. A. Dolph succeeded Mr. Taylor as vicepresident. The company is located in a well equipped banking office at 211 East Liberty street. The board of directors for 1925 are: M. A.. Ives, F. E. Benz, J. A. Swisher, Russell A. Dolph, W. A. Taylor, E. Stein, and Guy B. Cross. R. A. Bonisteel is the counsel for the company. In 1906 the German-American Bank of Ann Arbor, was organized with Charles W. Gill president and Edward L. Seyler cashier, and operated until 1915 when the bank was consolidated with the State Savings Bank. The Huron Valley Building & Savings Association of Ann Arbor, Michigan, a corporation of Michigan. Incorporated December 23, 1890. Authorized capital, $10,000,000. The original incorporators were: John R. Miner, Wm. G. Doty, G. Brehm, Chas. S. Millen, B. F. Watts, McC LeBran, Nelson J. Kyer, Fred W. Belser, Jas. R. Bach, A. R. Hammond, Ambrose Kearney, Thos. D. Kearney, D. A. MacLachlan, Jas. A. Brown, Eugene K. Frueauff, Wm. D. Harriman, J. B. Steere, and W. F. Breakey. John R. Miner, who was its first secretary, retained the office until December, 1898. He was succeeded by H. H. Herbst, who is now secretary and attorney of the AssociationThe first president of the Association was Fred Schmid, who remained in office until October 8, 1900. Judge Wm. D. Harriman succeeded him and retained the office from October 8, 1900, until January 20, 1919. He was followed by Robt. Campbell who was president until January 18, 1920, and his successor is the present president, William L. Walz, who took the office on January 18, 1920. The Association had its office at first in the basement of the court house. When the present secretary, H. H. Herbst took charge, it was removed to the little one-story frame building where Fred Heusel's bakery is now located; from thence it was moved to the second floor of the building on the corner of Main and Huron streets, where the First National Bank is now located. In 1908 the building in which the Association had its office was torn down to give place to the present First National Bank building. The Association then took up its quarters in HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 93 one of the offices of the second floor of the Ann Arbor Savings Bank building and has remained in that location for the past eighteen years. During the past six or seven years the growth of the Association has been very rapid under the active control of its president, William L. Walz and its secretary, H. H. Herbst, and it was deemed necessary to make a change to larger and better equipped offices. After careful study and consideration the present building at 116 North Fourth avenue opposite the court house was constructed. The building is a two-story stone front structure with four monolithic stone pillars and is considered one of the finest of its kind, from an architectural point of view, in the state. The body of the building is of brick and steel, as nearly fire proof as is possible to make such buildings. The Association occupies the entire first floor, which is furnished and equipped as a first class bank with all the modern conveniences of a bank. The resources of the Association have passed the million dollar mark and indications are that an even more rapid growth will be enjoyed. It has the unique distinction, not held by any other organization of its kind in the state, of not having foreclosed a single mortgage during the past twenty-seven years during which its present secretary has managed its affairs. Its securities are all in Ann Arbor first real estate mortgages amounting to over a million dollars. The Association has about a thousand investing members and growing now at nearly five hundred members a year, on an average. A large share of all the new construction buildings for residences in Ann Arbor are financed by the Huron Valley Building & Savings Association. CHAPTER VII EDUCATION UNDOUBTEDLY Michigan offered to the settlers the best of locations and the most magnificent natural resources along with the natural drawbacks of swamps, etc., but other states offered its settlers equal advantages, yet Michigan outstripped them in many ways. It is the opinion of the writer that it is not so much location or natural advantages that secures exceptional business and educational success, but rather the personality of the people who originate and develop those matters and to the fact that there were a sufficient number of men and women among the early settlers of Michigan able to mould and form the general outlines of policies to be pursued in the development of the country that he ascribes the splendid results. Samuel W. Dexter, one of the first to come into the county, was a graduate of Harvard and left Boston for Michigan, not that there was no place for him in his native state, but that he was fired by the enthusiasm of many people concerning the possibilities presented by the vast western country. The fact that for several years after reaching Michigan he and his family lived in a small log cabin on the banks of the Huron and that he, himself, carried the mail, on horseback, from Ann Arbor to his settlement once a week, made him none the less a scholarly man. Those things had to be done and if the best men would do the unpleasant things for the accommodation of their fellow-settlers they were bound to be done the better. James Kingsley, who came to Ann Arbor in 1826, was well educated. His influence was always exerted in behalf of the schools. Munnis Kenny, who came to Washtenaw county in 1829, was a graduate of an eastern college, afterwards receiving his degree of A.B. at Williams College. He had spent all his life, up to the time of his coming to Michigan, in academic pursuits and in the society of the cultured and refined, and while he did not find anything in pioneer life that was congenial to his tastes, he did not hesitate in the work that he had set out to do, and was none the less an educated and cultured man. Charles G. Clark, who came to Ann Arbor in 1829, had received his education at Amherst; I. M. Weed, who was a graduate of the University of Vermont, was one of the number first in the county. Orange Risdon, who came in the early twenties, when there were but very few white men in the county, was quite a mathematician and a good surveyor. In running through the list of names of those who first settled in the county one is able to cite dozens of men and women their equal. The early settlers of Washtenaw county took immediate steps toward establishing places of learning for their children, in fact gathering together the boys and girls and placing them under teachers before school houses could be provided. Temporary rooms were secured in crude and unfinished dwellings, and, as there was at the time no provision made for raising money by taxation for the 444 U~~~~~~~~~~IW k LIBIRIARIV (II I\ 1' I LI BL L U IV 'I SIIV O F M iC H IG A N HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 95 maintenance of public, or free schools, the patrons of the schools thus established paid the teachers themselves. It is true that the territorial legislature had provided that funds derived from the sale of certain public lands should be used in maintaining public schools, but the amount derived from that source was so small, on account of the low price of the land at that time, that little or no benefit resulted therefrom. The first territorial school law was passed in 1827 and provided that the citizens of any township, in which there were fifty householders, should provide themselves with a schoolmaster to teach the children to read and write. In those townships having two hundred or more householders a schoolmaster must be provided who could teach Latin, French and English. In 1833 a superintendent of common schools, three school commissioners and ten school inspectors were provided for by act of the legislature. Little was done, however, towards establishing public schools before Michigan became a state. The first state constitution provided for a superintendent of public instruction and John D. Pierce, who afterwards lived at Ypsilanti, was the first to hold the office, in fact he was the first superintendent of public instruction in the United States. Michigan has been the pioneer state in more ways than one, leading the other states in many matters and taken as a "pattern" by some of them. Mr. Pierce formulated a code of school laws which, with but slight change, was adopted by the legislature and put into effect. Under those laws the townships were divided into school districts. At school meetings no one but a male taxpayer could vote. The minimum school year was three months and for the expense of maintaining the school for that period the district could not vote over ninety dollars. Not over five hundred dollars could be raised by taxation in any one year. If they so desired they could vote ten dollars per year for library purpose. The school director employed the teacher but the pay must not exceed the ninety dollars appropriated for the year. There was a question in those first days as to who were entitled to take advantage of the schools by attending them and for a time colored children were refused but in 1869 the legislature settled the matter, after it had gotten into the supreme court, by providing: "All persons, residents of any school district, and five years of age, shall have an equal right to attend any school therein." This was made more emphatic two years later by an act which provided: "No separate school or department shall be kept for any persons on account of race or color." Eventually the school laws were modified so as to provide that in those districts having less than thirty school children the term should be three months, in those having more than thirty the school term to be five months and in those districts having eight hundred or. more the term must be nine months duration at least, and, if the tax-payers so desired, a longer term could be provided for. As has been stated before, the few settlers in Ann Arbor in 1825, after having been in the county but a few months, started a little school. The teacher, paid by voluntary subscriptions by the few residents, was a Miss Monroe. The following two or three years Harriet Parsons taught the school. Three years after the territorial school law had gone into effect the 96 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY township of Ann Arbor was divided into school districts, the village being included in District No. 1. The records are meagre but it is very certain that public schools were in operation in 1831, 1832 and 1833, as the first report for the year 1832 is composed of the following: "Number of children between five and fifteen years of age in the district, 161. Average number in school, 35. No public moneys received." But Ann Arbor did not lack in private schools. In 1829 T. W. and Moses Merrill opened a select school in which they taught Latin and Greek as well as English. Many of the scholars attending the Merrill school became prominent citizens of the city and county. An academy was started in 1832 by 0. C. Thompson, of Detroit, which became known all over the state as a school of high grade, well sustained in the departments of the classics, science and higher mathematics, and scholars from many parts of the state took advantage of the opportunities the academy presented. "High schools" and "manual training" schools were not unthought of in those days by the people, for a private school, known as a high school, was started in 1835 by Luke H. Parsons, at the corner of Fourth and Huron, and a manual training school, in the same year, by or under the charge of the Rev. Samuel Hair. The location of the latter school was about a mile and a half outside the city limits in the direction of Ypsilanti and the pupils paid for their board by working on the farm connected with the school. After three years of struggle the school closed. The year 1835 was a busy year in educational matters, at least as far as private scholars are concerned. Besides the high school and manual training school started that year Mr. and Mrs. Griffin, who had been teaching in another part of the village, opened an academy, which later became famous and known as "Old Academy," on the corner of Williams and Fourth, and the Misses Page opened their seminary for girls in the back part of the old Leonard House. This seminary braved the perils of private schools for three years and gave up, not, however, without rendering great service to the public. The "Old Academy" remained in existence for several years, offering a wide range of studies in English, Latin, Greek and the sciences and possessed appliances and apparatus for the study of chemistry, astronomy, philosophy and surveying. In 1844 A. S. Welch established an academical school as a preparatory school in connection with the university, which continued for about three years. Mr. Welch afterwards became president of the Agricultural College of Iowa. Shortly after the female seminary of the Misses Page had suspended operations the Misses Clark took up the work and opened a like institution in the old Argus block. The next year, 1840, they removed the seminary to the corner of Fourth and Liberty, and after three years at that location removed to Main and Liberty. A short time prior to 1850 the school was removed to Second and Huron and then to North and Fourth streets. At this location the school was destroyed by fire and the school removed to a brick building on Division street where it found a home for the next ten years, its career only cut short by the death of its principal, Mary Clark, in 1876. This school was the most famous and permanent private school in the county, having an existence of thirty-seven years. In the meantime HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 97 the public schools of the village were accomplishing but little towards the education of the children. In these days of fine school buildings and apparatus presided over by the best of teaching personnel it cannot be but of great interest to compare the district school of the early days before the schools were graded, and the schools of today. The first school houses were not furnished with furnaces, fuel ready at hand and a man to build the fires and tend them but were heated by huge sheet-iron stoves. Each patron furnished so much wood per scholar and the wood was generally cut in sled lengths; the boys carried their axes and cut it into stove-wood at noon time and at recess. School usually began at 8 o'clock in the morning and closed at 5 in the afternoon. There were no Saturday holidays. Nothing was considered a sufficient excuse for dismissing school save the celebration of the "Glorious Fourth." The inside of these primitive school houses was not furnished with patent desks and seats, but with benches, some made of plain boards, others of unplaned slabs, flat side up, with pegs for legs. There were two desks for writing extending the length of the sides of the room. When the hour for writing arrived the scholars were directed to face the wall thus affording the teacher an excellent chance to look over the shoulder of the pupil, see how the quill was held and if the lines of the letters were too horizontal or perpendicular. If either was the case, a reminder was put in, the position of the scholar affording too good an opportunity to be lightly thrown away. The result of this correction would be the making of sundry lines and curves unknown in geometry. Early in the settlement of the village several of the pioneers had settled on the lower portion of the present city site and had maintained separate schools, but these were consolidated with those of the city when that portion became the Fifth ward. A central building was erected and great improvement made in educational facilities. School attendance rapidly increased as Ann Arbor was growing in population and new territory being taken in its limits. New legislation tended to better the schools and more school room became necessary. The Central building had been erected in 1854-55 at a cost of $30,000 and in 1860 the Second ward building was built. Two years later the First ward was provided with a building and in 1866 the Third ward. In 1869 the Fourth ward building was erected and in 1871 the Central building was enlarged to double its former capacity. While these buildings were being erected it had become necessary to use a few of the churches as school houses. In the old Central building the first attempt at "grading" the pupils was made, and the primary, grammar and high school departments were created. The high school was organized in 1856, with J. C. Abbot, who later became president of the Michigan Agricultural College, as principal. The Ann Arbor high school became one of the most prominent features of the city and this has been said of it by good authority in 1881, fifteen years after its creation: "It is one of the largest preparatory and academical schools in the country and its reputation has become well-nigh national. Of its 400 to 500 pupils about 60 per cent are non-residents. Its annual receipts for tuition go far toward cancelling the cost of its maintenance, while many families 98 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY become temporary residents of the city in order to secure the advantages of its superior instruction. It is doubtful if any other enterprise of the city has contributed more, even to its material prosperity, than has the Ann Arbor high school." While the village and township of Ann Arbor were taking such excellent care to provide educational facilities the balance of the county was by no means backward. To Pittsfield township belongs the honor and credit of having built the first school house.* At the time the log cabin school was erected, the township was a part of Ann Arbor township and it was nine years later before there were enough people within its present limits to justify its being detached and formed into a separate township. The building was erected, in 1825, of logs which were, nearly fifty years later, cut up and made into canes eagerly sought after by the 'old men and women" who had been flogged and taught their three R's in the building. Northfield township, then a part of Ann Arbor township, built its first school house in 1828 or 1829, and it has been stated by some who attended school in the township at the time, that the building and school was erected and taught in 1826. Benjamin Sutton had settled in the township in 1824 and built his log cabin that year, and the Sutton school house and the date of its building was a mooted question for years. In the township of Saline, first settled by Leonard Miller in 1826, the first school house was erected in 1831 and Calvin Lamb was its first teacher. The township was not organized into school districts until 1834. In Salem township there is also some doubt as to the first school but from the best authority it is placed as in the year 1829, and taught by Charles Dean. In Webster township the settlers built a school house in 1826, four years after the first settler, Thomas Alexander, came, but just as quickly as there were enough children to form a class. Mary Ann Spears was the first teacher. Dexter township was amongst the first to start their schools. In Lyndon township Angel Green taught a school supported by patrons and it was not until 1837 that the district school was started. John K. Yocum taught the latter. The township of Sylvan was not settled until 1830 and then there were but one or two families within its present limits. A school was started within two or three years. The first school house was built in Lima township in 1835, but a school had been started in 1831 by Abram Yoeman in a private dwelling. In Scio township, which was among the first townships to receive settlers, a log school house was built in 1829. This township was settled by people who recognized the value of education, especially those who settled the village of Dexter and vicinity. In that village a school house was built in 1830 in which a Mr. Gleason taught. This building was replaced, in 1843, by a larger one of brick and in 1857 the old Union school was built and the graded system adopted. In Superior township school was started in 1827 and its teacher, Pamelia Pattison, received *In 1925, at the new "stone school-house" on Packard street, a short distance west of where the "first school-house" stood, was celebrated the one hundredth anniversary of the school, by the residents of the district in conjunction with the County Pioneer and Historical Society.-Ed. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 99 $1 per week for her services. In Ypsilanti township, the first part of the county to be settled in, school was opened in 1826 and taught by Hope Johnson at Woodruff's Grove and Olive Gorton in Ypsilanti. Even before the opening of these schools the children had been gathered together and instructed until the schools could be ready. The splendid schools of the city of Ypsilanti are treated in another chapter. Lodi township was one of the last townshipsto be organized but as early as 1827 the enterprising settlers had started a school presided over by Polly Stratton, in a private dwelling. A log school house was built in 1829. Sharon township had a school in the first few years of its settlement taught by Myra Winchester. Manchester and Bridgewater began their schools as soon as possible. York began its schools in 1831, with Washington Morton as teacher. Augusta township, one of the last to be formed, began its schools in district No. 1, in 1833, although the district was not organized so as to receive the benefits of the public money, until 1839. And thus did these sturdy pioneers, in spite of their poverty, lay the foundations upon which were built the present unexcelled school system of the county. It can be no cause for surprise that the legislature decided upon the county as the location of that vast and efficient institution of learning, the University of Michigan. THE SCHOOLS OF TODAY Because Ann Arbor is the seat of one of the country's largest universities, something out of the ordinary might reasonably be expected of the public school system of that city. One has to live but a short time in Ann Arbor to know that this expectation has been realized. Nor are the educational facilities entirely to the public schools. A number of private schools, from the kindergarten to the technical training school, are found there. Public interest in the schools evidenced by the improvement in the older buildings and the erection of fine new buildings. Much of the interest has been stimulated by the Federation of Mother's Clubs. The recent experiment of an open air room in the Jones school is another example of what the women of the city have done to interest the school board in advanced educational ideas. This interest is kept alive in each ward by the Parent-Teachers' Association. In the First ward the Perry school has done remarkable work for the foreigners of the city and a night school of Americanization has been maintained. A course of study is offered in the grade schools which covers not only the fundamentals but includes many features of the best schools in the country. Systematic work is provided under special supervisors in music, drawing, manual training and physical culture. Parks and play grounds are provided for recreation, as well as a fine bathing beach. The interest in the health of the children is not confined to the above, as for many years Ann Arbor schools have had the benefit of medical inspection, the city being a pioneer in this phase of educational work. Since its adoption there has been no serious epidemic among the children in Ann Arbor. As early as 1912 dental inspection was established and provision made for the inspection of the teeth of each scholar two or three times each year. The Ann Arbor high school, housed in a magnificent build 100 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY ing at the corner of Huron and State streets erected in 1905, represents the culmination of the public school system of the city. Its laboratory equipment for teaching science and its library facilities as aids in language and history, combined with a selected staff of instructors, offer superior opportunities to the students- The high school is equipped with a gymnasium 100x60 feet with large locker rooms and shower baths. The building was designed to accommodate 900 students and is one of the finest in the country. To meet the requirements of the rapidly growing city the board requested a bond issue of $750,000 which was voted in 1920, and since that time an extensive building program has been followed. In 1923 three large modern school buildings were completed, the Mack, Angell and Jones. In 1924 expensive improvements were made on the Perry and Bach buildings. The budget for the maintenance of the Ann Arbor schools for the school year 1925 -26 amounts to $741,332.38 and includes provision for two junior high schools to be located in the Mack and Tappan buildings. In February, 1925, the Tappan school building was completed and occupied. With a purpose similar to that of the public schools, the St. Thomas parochial and high school was founded in 1868. Today the school is equipped with modern buildings. St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church established a parochial school in 1906. Hand in hand with the public and other schools of the city Ann Arbor has one of the very best library buildings completed in 1907, in which are 35,000 volumes. The building, of stone in Italian renaissance, cost about $40,000 exclusive of the ground, Andrew Carnegie donating $30,000 and the city $10,000. Samuel W. McAllister was made librarian in 1922, succeeding Miss Nellie S. Loving who had been the librarian since 1893 and to her is due a great deal of the credit which the city derives in possessing such a splendid library. The Ladies' Library Association has worked for years in obtaining a line of books suitable for students and others. The modern schools of Ypsilanti have kept pace with the best schools in the state. In 1915 the new high school building was occupied and this year, 1925, the old building is being extensively repaired and a new heating system installed. A fine new steel and brick gymnasium is in course of erection which will be one of the best in the country. Prospect school was completed and occupied in 1918 and in 1925 five additional rooms were added to the building. Harriet Street school building was completed in 1924-25. An addition is being built to Woodruff school, while the Junior high school occupies Central. St. John's parochial school was completed in the summer of 1925. The Dominican Sisters are in charge. The building is constructed of light colored brick to match the new church and is modern in every way. MICHIGAN STATE NORMAL COLLEGE This volume would hardly be complete without mention of the Michigan State Normal College, at Ypsilanti. This very excellent HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 101 educational institution, which has been attended by students from all parts of the United States, has been very ably described in an article written by Mary B. Putnam, M.A., of the College department of history. The following information concerning the college is taken from Miss Putnam's article, which appears in full in Volume Two of "Historic Michigan." The act under which the Michigan State Normal School was established was approved March 28, 1849. To provide "for its endowment, and building, and other purposes, twenty-five sections of salt spring lands" were granted, and the object of the school was defined to be the instruction of persons of both sexes in the art of teaching and in various subjects that pertain to a good common school education. The school also is required, under the provisions of the original act, to teach mechanic arts, the arts of husbandry and agricultural chemistry. Particular mention is made of instruction in the fundamental laws of the United States and the rights and duties of citizens. In the competition among the cities which desired to obtain the college, Ypsilanti was easily the winner. Though Jackson, Gull Prairie and Niles wanted the new school, Ypsilanti's offer of $13,500 in cash and the fact that the state board considered that city most desirable "in point of health, accessibility and locality" resulted in a decision favorable to Ypsilanti, which was then a small village. Though several sites were available and the plot now occupied by the Central City School was offered for $7,000, public-spirited citizens donated four acres where the main Normal building now stands and the state board purchased additional land; bringing the original site to a total of almost six acres. At this time the grounds of the college include approximately one hundred acres; the additions to the site having been acquired through purchase and through donation. The first building erected was a three-story brick structure measuring 102x50 feet and costing $15,200. This building, with its furniture and the library, were burned in 1859. After occupying temporary quarters in the Ypsilanti Union School, the basement of the Baptist church and the National Hotel building, the college was able to resume its operations in the restored structure, the walls of which were saved, in April, 1860. This old building, which has thus been preserved since the founding of the college, forms the nucleus of the present main building. The additions to the school's housing facilities have come but gradually, though of recent years appropriations by the state legislature and donations from private citizens have been more liberal. A gymnasium costing $1,200 was the first structure added to the restored edifice mentioned above, and this gymnasium was itself destroyed by fire in 1873. However, from time to time, notable increases in the school's equipment and departments were made, until today the Michigan State Normal College ranks among the best institutions of its kind in the country. Among the many important gifts from individuals are Starkweather Hall, the gift of Mrs. Mary A. Starkweather to the Students' Christian Association, and the Frederick H. Pease Auditorium. The library now contains more than fifty thousand volumes 102 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY and the original faculty of five has been increased to one hundred and fourteen. Space'forbids giving a complete account of the growth and activities of the college, which has had as principals the following educators: A. S. Welch, D. P. Mayhew, C. F. R. Bellows, Joseph Estabrook, Malcolm McVicar, Daniel Putnam, Edwin Willits, J. B. M. Sill, R. G. Boone, E. A. Lyman, Albert Leonard, Lewis H. Jones and Charles McKenney. The first entrance requirements stated that students must be of good moral character and at least thirteen years old. At the present time five distinct courses, literature, science, languages, arts and common school subjects, are given. The Michigan State Normal School holds a worthy place among the teacher-training institutions of this nation. The roll of those students who have served with honor and distinction, in class-rooms, in the professions and in the Civil, Spanish-American and World wars, is indeed a long one. In 1897 the name of the Normal School was changed to "The Michigan State Normal College," and with the advantage of this prestige it began a new career of usefulness. Under the efficient administration of President Charles McKenny, which began in 1912, it has been recognized as an educational institution of the highest standards, and the number of its students has doubled, reaching in 1925, including the summer school, a total of 6,687. THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN So much has been written and put in permanent form and is so easily obtainable concerning Michigan's greatest institution of learning, the University, that it would be superfluous for us to go into minute details here. In the first years of the nineteenth century, when there were few people in the then territory, the desirability of having such an institution was strongly advocated. Land had been set aside, by the government, the proceeds of the sale of which was to be used in the establishment of a university, and, in 1817, under the inspiration of Augustus B. Woodward, one of the judges of the territory, an act was passed establishing "The Catholepistemiad, or University of Michigania." This act was amended in 1821, and held in abeyance, but in force, until the actual establishment of the University in 1837, the regents of which, by a later decision of the supreme court, were held to be the direct successors and inheritors of the act of 1817. In 1837 the legislature passed the bill providing for its establishment and government. Three departments were provided for, one of Literature, Science and the Arts, one of Medicine and one of Law. The University was to be governed by a board of twelve regents, of which the governor was the ex-officio president. The lieutenant-governor, the chancellor of the state and the judges of the supreme court were also ex-officio members. The bill establishing the University required the regents to prepare plans for the buildings and in 1837 forty acres upon which the buildings were to be located were donated to the state. These forty acres were located within the present limits of the city of Ann Arbor HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 103 and a more beautiful location could not have been obtained. While the regents of the University were supposed to be the real managers of the institution much annoyance was experienced by reason of the interference of the legislature. Early in the history of the institution steps were taken to emancipate the University from the direct control of the legislature and in 1840 a committee, appointed to investigate the condition of the University, advised the transfer of all control of the affairs of the institution from the legislature to the board of regents to obtain a faculty of able teachers and throw upon them the entire responsibility of carrying on the work of education in the best possible mannerThe legislature continued to interfere, however, to a greater or less degree, until the constitution of 1851 was adopted by the state. From that time the management and control of the University have been in the hands of the regents and the professors intrusted with the matters directly pertaining to education. The plans for the building of the University called for the establishment of academies in different parts of the state and in pursuance of this plan the regents, in 1837, put in operation eight of these branches of the University in different parts of the state. But the experiment was so disappointing that within nine or ten years the legislature refused to further support the academies. This withdrawal was undoubtedly of benefit to the educational interests of the state at large for the reason that it compelled those in charge of the intermediate schools to greatly improve them, the result that the union schools provided an even better means of preparation for entrance to the University-a most pressing need. While the new constitution of the state of Michigan had placed the control of the University in the hands of regents, it also made another very important change and that was in the formation and selection of members of the board of regents. Prior to 1851 the board was composed to a great extent of politicians appointed by the governor with the approval of the senate and the educational and other qualifications of the appointees not always duly considered. The constitution provided that the board shall have the general supervision of the institution and the direction and control of all expenditures from the University interest fund and that the board should be elected to the position directly by the people. There had been many capable men on the board prior to the change in manner of selection of the members and worthy plans had been devised and adopted. But there still remained something lacking and the institution did not progress as it should. In the school year 1843-44 there were fifty-three students. In 1849 the number had increased but to eightynine. In 1852 there was a smaller number in attendance in the department of Literature, Science and Arts than there had been since 1845. Soon after the Territory of Michigan was admitted as a state John D. Pierce was appointed superintendent of public instruction. Pierce was a man of culture and was well fitted to carry on the work entailed by his acceptance of the position. To him was given the preparation of a system, not only covering the common or public schools but the University. His plans were very comprehensive but for many years were 104 HISTORY O' WASSHTENAW COUNTY not adhered to closely. When the new board, elected by the people, came into the management the University seemed to acquire new vigor but not until the board saw fit to appoint a head or president of the institution did prosperity come to it. Henry P. Tappan, who was elected president, proved the wisdom of the selection by at once developing and carrying out the plans made by Mr. Pierce. Professor Charles K. Adams, writing on the subject says: "The great merit, then, of President Tappan's work for the University was not so much that he advanced new doctrines and proposed new theories, as that he discovered the means of bringing into actual existence and practice what had previously been no more than ideal. Nor must it be inferred that this was a work of small importance. The transformation wrought was real and almost immediate. This was brought about partly by means of opening new departments and strengthening old ones; and partly by the somewhat less tangible, but scarcely less important, work of creating and enlightening public opinion." In his first report President Tappan said: "We see a University faculty giving instruction in a college or gymnasium. Our first object will be to perfect this gymnasium. To this end we propose a scientific course parallel to the classical course. There will be comprised in it, besides other branches, civil engineering; astronomy with the use of an observatory; and the application of chemistry to agriculture and the industrial arts generally. The entire course will run through four years, in which the students will be distributed into four classes similarly to the classic course. Students who pursue the full scientific course we shall graduate as Bachelors of Science. In addition to this we will allow students to pursue special courses, and give them at their departure certificates of their proficiency." A scientific course was at once opened to those desiring to pursue that line of study and at a later date the civil engineering course was started. Before astronomy could be taught to advantage it was necessary that an observatory be provided; and as the state was unwilling to appropriate the money or unable to do so, President Tappan personally solicited funds for the erection of the needed building and the purchase of the necessary apparatus. The money was raised mostly in the city of Detroit and Professor Adams speaks of the new observatory: "The Detroit Observatory, when ready for use, was recognized as one of the most perfectly equipped in the world, and its subsequent record has more than justified the high anticipations of its founders." The other branches were not neglected when the president enlarged the scope of the University, and its medical department was greatly expanded. Shortly afterwards the law department was opened and became one of the most largely attended law schools in the United States. President Tappan refused to appoint professors upon any other grounds than their fitness for the position, declining to consider an applicant's religious affiliation. Professor Adams thus sums up the work of President Tappan: 1\I1I( 1(' IA\ N 'NI ()N' 'NIV \I,R1SI T 1 (U)FI F I( M IlI(GAN - - lroml an etching 1)y \ilfred B. Shaw HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 105 "Thus, by the founding of new departments, by the establishment of new professorships, and by the appointment of men of culture and skill to fill the vacant chairs, as well as by the noble utterances of the president on educational subjects, the work of the University was immensely extended in breadth and depth. The first catalogue in which President Tappan's name occurs contains a list of fourteen officers and 222 students; the last one shows that the number had increased during the eleven years of his administration to thirty officers and 652 students." During the administration of President Tappan the salaries of the professors in the Literary department had been $1,500 but after the breaking out of the Civil war the professors found it almost impossible to make the amount equal to the great advance in the cost of living. Relief was obtained from the legislature which, in 1866, passed an act giving to the University a twentieth of a mill tax estimated to realize about $16,000 per annum. In connection with this appropriation there was a condition stipulated which the regents did not seem disposed to meet. The condition was that at least one professor of homeopathy should be appointed in the Department of Medicine. An attempt to evade this condition and at the same time secure the needed appropriation was made by the board which failed. The matter came before the legislature again in 1869 and the action of the board was severely scrutinized. The result was that a new appropriation was given free from any condition, a result due to the wisdom of President Haven who had succeeded President Tappan in 1863, and who continued as president until 1869. In that year there were 1,100 students in attendance at the University. When President Haven left, Professor H. S. Frieze was placed in charge temporarily until a new president could be selected. It was during his administration that the University was opened to women. Prior to that time many women had applied for admission and in 1858 a petition to the end was acted upon unfavorably by the board. The women carried the matter to the legislature and that body, in 1867, "resolved" that it was the deliberate opinion of the legislature that the high objects of the University of Michigan will never be attained "until women are admitted to all its rights and privileges." The regents and president were opposed to the women being admitted on the grounds that "it was too late now to make this change without a revolution which should not be risked except under a necessity that could otherwise be met" and the president recommended the establishment of a state college for them. However, during the following year the opinion of President Haven underwent a change and he stated that he believed that the best method for Michigan would be to make provision for the instruction of women at the University. After further opposition on the part of some of the members of the board the following resolution was passed in 1870: "Resolved, That the board of regents recognize the right of every resident of Michigan to the enjoyment of the privileges afforded by the University, and that no rule exists in the University statutes for 106 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY the exclusion of any person from the University who possesses the requisite literary and moral qualifications." While Professor Frieze was in control he secured the connection between the high schools of the state and the University. Through his efforts Philo Parsons, of Detroit, bought the library of Professor Rau, of the University of Heidelberg, and donated the same to Michigan's University. That library consisted of 4,000 volumes and 5,000 pamphlets devoted to the science of government, political economy and cognate subjects. In 1871 Dr. J. B. Angell became president of the University, coming from the University of Vermont. Under his administration the work of the senior year in the literature department was made more attractive and all the studies of that year made elective with the exception of logic and psychology, permitting the selection of courses in accord with the individual taste and aptitude. University Hall was finished and occupied in the fall of 1873 at a cost of $100,000. By 1874 the attendance was over 1,200 with 370 graduates for the year. About this time the legislature appropriated $8,000, contingent on Ann Arbor's donating $4,000, for the erection of a hospital building and the building was erected on the campus. A dental school was added and also a homeopathic medical college and a school of mines. In the school year of 1878-79 the legislature appropriated money for the erection of a museum to cost $20,000 and $3,250 for a dental college building. Up to this time the state had appropriated a total of $570,000 for the maintenance of the University but in 1881 the needs of the institution were better understood and appreciated and that year the sum of $160,000 was appropriated, which included money for the erection of a library building. A school of political science was started the same year. In 1883 the University was presented with a set of five bells by Andrew D. White, at the time president of Cornell. In 1885-86 a new engineering laboratory was established and in 1888 an appropriation of $35,000 was made for a building for the scientific laboratories. In the same year the legislature appropriated $50,000 for a new hospital on condition that the city of Ann Arbor donate $25,000 for the same purpose. By 1890 the law school was in need of larger quarters and in 1898 a new law building was erected at a cost of $65,000 and an addition was made to the library. In 1899-1900 a new hospital for the homeopathic medical college was erected. In this school year the attendance was nearly 3,500. The first quarter of the present century witnessed great changes in the physical equipment and in the courses of study of the University of Michigan. On October 15, 1901, was laid the cornerstone of the new home of the Medical College, and the construction of the new building was rushed to completion. The Chemical Laboratory was built in 1910; the Alumni Memorial Hall, built by the alumni and friends of the University, was dedicated in 1910 to the sons of the University who had served in their country's wars. Arthur Hill, regent of the University from Saginaw, at his death in 1909 left the University a bequest of $200,000 for an auditorium, and the present Hill Auditorium, HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 107 seating 5,000 people, is the result. The Natural Science building was erected in 1915; the first unit of the new hospital was started in 1917; James Burrill Angell Hall was built with appropriations of the legislature in 1921; a new Physics laboratory was erected at about the same time as Angell Hall, opened in 1924, and the University high school, a teachers' training high school, was built in 1924, and a new hospital finished in 1925. The hospital is mentioned in the chapter on Hospitals and Physicians. To these structures have been added within the last year or two a new Engineering building and a new Medical building. A Nurses' Home, built with a gift of $600,000 from Senator James Couzens, of Detroit, has just been finished, and a Laboratory of Medical Research, a bequest from Mrs. Thomas H. Simpson, of Detroit, is under construction near the Observatory. With the increase in the number of women students the need of residence halls or dormitories for them was felt by the University, and individual gifts came to supply them. Three residence halls have been built around the campus: the Martha Cook building, given by W. W. Cook, an alumnus of the University and attorney in New York; Newberry residence, the gift of Mrs. Helen Newberry, of Detroit, and Betsy Barbour House, from former regent, Levi L. Barbour, of Detroit, an alumnus of the class of 1863, who had already given funds for the Barbour gymnasium for women students. There are other smaller residence halls for women, and one dormitory for men, the first unit of several proposed, established by private Detroit enterprise. Mr. Cook has also given the extensive and beautiful Lawyers' Club and dormitory for men of the Law College, built on ground south of the campus. This ground was condemned by the University, which has outgrown its original campus limit of forty acres. On the Ferry Athletic Field has also been erected the Yost Field House, with a seating capacity of 12,000, the cost of which is largely defrayed from the receipts at football games. And a new stadium, to seat 60,000 persons, is in prospect. While the material equipment of the University has been steadily improved and enlarged by the legislature, the courses of study have also been increased to conform to the advanced ideas of education. The post-graduate school was established in 1912 and served to attract to Michigan many who sought higher degrees that had not been offered at the Ann Arbor institution. The school of education came into being in 1921 and is rapidly becoming one of the important departments in the University. The most recent addition is the founding of the school of business administration in 1924, and every effort is being made by the officials of the University to build the course up to a point where it will rival in thoroughness and prestige the famous course of the same kind offered at Harvard University. While the University is a source of pride to the people of Michigan, it must not be forgotten that the institution has been enthusiastically supported by the representatives of the people in the legislature. Appropria 108 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY tions during the years from 1921 to 1923 have totaled $8,900,000 for the construction of new buildings, the establishment of new courses, and the operating expenses of the University. The legislature of 1917 appropriated 350,000 for the construction of one or more units of the new hospital building; the legislature of 1919 voted $200,000 for the completion and equipment of the new library, $700,000 for the University hospital, and $300,000 for a site and the building of the teachers' training high school. In its library, the University of Michigan has a possession the value of which can hardly be estimated. The beginning of the present century found it with but 150,000 volumes. Then it began to grow rapidly and finally the legislature was told of its cramped quarters. After the new building was built the growth continued with unabated vigor. By the end of June, 1923, it had become the largest library of any state university in the country and was eighth in size of all university libraries. With the passing of another year, it still remained the largest state university library in the country but had advanced to seventh place in the rank of university libraries in the country, with a total of 570,806 volumes. Several notable collections are kept at the library, among them being the recently acquired groups of Greek papyri, Greek and Latin manuscripts, and Oriental manuscripts, the latter coming from the private library of the late Sultan Abdul Hamid. In 1922, the University library was augmented by the gift of the Clements library, of William L. Clements, regent from Bay City. In this last collection is very complete research material for the discovery, colonial, and revolutionary periods of American history. Regent Clements also gave the University the stone building in which his collection is housed. It is needless to say that the possession of such valuable source material has enabled the University to offer to students and scholars advanced history courses that they would be unable to secure in other universities and colleges of the country. A mammal collection of 1,000 specimens is installed in the zoology museum, together with mounted birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish to the number of about 12,000. Anthropological collections valued at several millions of dollars are also maintained in the same museum. Collections of mineralogy, geology, paleontology, pharmacognosy, chemical industry, anatomy, and materia medica, are also exhibited by the University. Botanical gardens are located on Packard street, Ann Arbor, and near the boulevard system beyond the observatory, and maintained for combined instructional and park purposes. The gardens are some ninety acres in extent. An interesting feature of the work in marine engineering, is the testing tank, 300 feet long, 22 feet wide. and 10 feet deep, which occupies one side of the ground floor of the engineering building. By means of this tank and the accompanying apparatus, model ships are tested. In 1909, James Burrill Angell, for thirty-eight years the president of the University of Michigan, was granted retirement as president emeritus. Casting about for one to succeed him, the regents considered HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 109 Charles Evans Hughes, of New York, and Dr. Woodrow Wilson, who had just resigned the presidency of Princeton University. Selection finally fell on Harry B. Hutchins, dean of the University of Michigan Law College, who had been acting president for a year. He agreed to take the presidency for the limited term of five years. So acceptable to the regents was his work as president that he was retained beyond the five years and in 1920, at his repeated request for retirement, was made president emeritus. Marion LeRoy Burton, then president of the University of Minnesota, was chosen to succeed Hutchins in June, 1920, his salary being $18,000, an increase of $8,000 a year over that received by his predecessor. The immediate problem that confronted President Burton was the need of new buildings for the growing University, the number of whose students had doubled, from 5,000 to 10,000, during the past ten years, and to this need, and the securing of suitable appropriations from the state legislature, he devoted his energies. Some results of this work have been mentioned. President Burton's untimely and lamented death in February, 1925, cut short the realization of many of his fondest ideals in education. Clarence Cook Little, a distinguished biologist and educator, coming from the presidency of the University of Maine, was chosen as his successor, and assumed his duties at Michigan in October, 1925. UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MUSIC The University Musical Society was officially incorporated and its articles of association recorded at the office of the secretary of state at Lansing, May 17, 1881, and in the Washtenaw county clerk's office on October 3, of the same year. Articles of association for its reincorpbration were filed with the secretary of state and with the county clerk on March 5, 1908. The Society when first organized was the result of the culmination of considerable activity by musical organizations in Ann Arbor and the University. A choral society with fluctuating success had been in existence for some years and several music teachers of considerable ability had taught in the community while many musical programs had been conducted in the University. It is recorded that at these early choral concerts the members of the chorus frequently.exceeded in number those who made up the audience. The purpose of the University Musical Society as found in its articles of Association is "to cultivate the public taste for music and to afford opportunities for the acquisition of musical knowledge and skill. It will provide for instruction in vocal and instrumental music and will give public vocal and instrumental concerts. For the attainment of these ends it will undertake the establishment of a school of music, the maintenance of a choral society and the maintenance of an orchestra." So wise and generous were the provisions of its original charter that during the more than two score years which have intervened and which have witnessed a phenomenal growth in the development of music no changes in its charter have been necessitated. The board of directors is limited to such persons as have been connected with the University of Michigan in the capacity of students or 110 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY officials and in this way harmony of effort and of standards have continuously been maintained. For a number of years necessarily the results obtained were relatively meager, but in 1888 new impetus was given to the work in music through the coming of Dr. Albert A. Stanley to the University of Michigan as professor of music, and as musical director of the University musical society. Under his wide leadership aggressive activity became apparent in all lines. The University School of Music which had previously been known as the Ann Arbor School of Music became a live organization and by the year 1892 so much interest was aroused that public spirited citizens of Ann Arbor provided funds for the construction of the original School of Music building which has since been remodeled and enlarged several times to meet growing demands. In 1893 after the culmination of a series of rather successful concerts the Boston Festival Orchestra was engaged for a three-days' festival at which the Choral Union under Dr. Stanley's baton made a wonderful impression. So successful was this first festival that the board of directors decided to make it an annual event and it was lengthened to five concerts instead of three, performances being given on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings with matinees on Friday and Saturday. From then on until 1913 the festival was held in University Hall and became known as the most important musical event in this section of the middle west. In 1913 with the erection of Hill Auditorium, funds for which were bequeathed to the University of Michigan by one of her loyal sons, the late Arthur Hill of Saginaw, the festival took on larger aspects and more artists of first rank were engaged each season. Until 1904 the festivals were given in connection with the Boston Festival Orchestra, Emil Mollenhauer, conductor. Beginning with the festival of 1905, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra under Frederick Stock has participated. In 1907 the festival scheme was enlarged by the giving of an additional concert, six in all, beginning on Wednesday evening and continuing until Saturday night, with matinees on Friday and Saturday afternoons as before. In 1909 the choral work was further augmented by the inclusion of a large chorus of school children. In addition to the festival concerts for many years, five programs and later six, were given by leading artists and organizations at intervals during the winter. In 1918, however, interest in music had grown to such proportions that the board of directors decided to supplement the present activities by adding another concert series to be known as the extra series of five programs, thus for several years seventeen programs are provided each season. With this tremendous growth in concert activity the School of Music likewise flourished. Teachers of renown who were noted artists as well as pedagogs were engaged for the different departments. These in turn assembled about them associates of renown. The attendance gradually grew from a few hundred to a present enrollment of about seven hundred students representing practically every state in the Union and many foreign countries. Graduates of the school are found through HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 111 out the civilized work filling positions of responsibility in opera, in concert, as teachers, writers, and in other professional capacities. Along with these activities the University Symphony Orchestra has attained distinction under the leadership of the head of the violin department. A complete orchestra of approximately seventy or eighty pieces has been in continuous existence for many years and worthy programs are provided from time to time. Supplementing the concert activities of the Choral Union, May Festival and Extra Concert Series, many concerts are provided by the faculty of the school and by artist students. Other important contributions by the musical society will be noted. At the close of the World's Fair in 1893 in Chicago the University succeeded in purchasing the famous organ which had been in use in Music Hall. It was presented to the University of Michigan and set up in University Hall where it remained until 1913 when it was transferred to more commodious quarters in Hill Auditorium. In 1922 the University in co-operation with the University School of Music procured the services of a noted organist, Palmer Christian, as official organist to the University, and a member of the faculty of the University School of Music. Part of his duties consist in providing weekly programs on this famous instrument. The presentation to the University of Michigan of the Stearns collection of Musical instruments by the late Frederick Stearns of Detroit, was due largely to the efforts of the University Musical Society. This collection is one of the most noted in the world and occupies commodious quarters in Hill Auditorium. Throughout these years when gradual and substantial success and growth have continually marked the development of music in Ann Arbor, acknowledgment must be made to the careful guidance and careful foresight of the board of directors of which Professor Henry Simmons Frieze was the first president. He was succeeded in the early nineties by Professor Francis W. Kelsey who is still serving in that capacity. Dr. Stanley, however, musical director from 1888 to 1921, was the guiding star in progressive music development. In 1904 a business manager, Charles A. Sink, was engaged to administer the business affairs of the University. Through his conscientious efforts Dr. Stanley was relieved of much financial and administrative details and consequently was enabled to devote the corresponding amount of energy to the strictly musical side of his work. Mr. Sink has been bold and progressive in his management and his regime has been characterized by the bringing to Ann Arbor practically all of the world's greatest artists and organizations and at the same time so careful has been his business management that prices both for concert admissions and for tuition have been kept at a minimum. Upon the resignation of Dr. Stanley as musical director in 1921, Albert Lockwood was appointed acting musical director of the University School of Music, while Earl V. Moore was made acting conductor of the Choral Union and given Dr. Stanley's place on the faculty 112 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY of the University of Michigan. Two years later in 1923 the board of directors, after considering carefully all available candidates, wisely elected Professor Moore as permanent musical director. During the years which have intervened the wisdom of their choice has been fully demonstrated by the splendid and aggressive policies of Professor Moore. Not only is he a musician of high standards but he is broadminded and willing to recognize the merits in all forms of musical endeavor. CHAPTER VIII MILITARY ON every occasion that the nation called for men to uphold its dignity or enforce its mandates the people of Michigan have been among the first to respond. The story of the splendid achievements of its men and women at such times is too long to be fully given in a work of this kind, therefore only a short summary will be attempted. The military spirit has always been strong in the state and Washtenaw has always exhibited that spirit. Militia companies had been organized in the earliest days of its settlement. The "Frontier Guards" were organized in 1829, commanded by Captain James Kingsley. In 1838 this company was succeeded by the "Washtenaw Guards," first commanded by Captain E. S. Cobb. This company was composed of the best citizens of Ann Arbor and was well drilled by Colonel John M. Berrien who was at the time engaged in making a survey of the proposed route of the Michigan Central. The company maintained its organization for seven or eight years during which time it defeated the crack "Brady Guards" of Detroit in a prize drill and also the Monroe company. The first "war" that occurred after Washtenaw began to be settled was the "Black Hawk" war in 1832. While the men of the county responded to the call for volunteers there was little for them to do and before the Michigan troops could reach the scene of action the affair was over and the troops sent home. The next war in which Washtenaw furnished men was the near approach to civil war. The "Toledo War" was brought on by the dispute between the citizens of Michigan and those of the state of Ohio over a strip of land five miles wide at the west and eight at the east end, Ohio claiming that the line surveyed by Harris, and Michigan claiming the line as surveyed by Fulton, should be the boundary line between the two, the Territory of Michigan and the state of Ohio. Much ill feeling was engendered and troops of both sides were assembled on the disputed ground, Washtenaw furnishing probably more men than any other locality, and bloodshed was only prevented by the action of the president. This "war" was finally settled by the Territory of Michigan accepting admission to the Union, at the same time giving up its claim to the disputed lands and accepting in lieu the northern peninsula. Very little can be learned from the few records in existence concerning the part taken by Michigan men in the war with Mexico. In 1846 the governor assembled thirteen militia companies of which eleven were infantry and two cavalry, from which a regiment was formed and sent to the seat of war. What records have been found speak highly of the conduct of the Michigan troops. When Fort Sumter was fired upon in April of the memorable year of 1861, the patriotism of the people of Washtenaw county was aroused 114 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY to a high pitch and when President Lincoln issued his call for 75,000 men no community responded more promptly than Washtenaw. The deeds performed by Michigan troops have been told in full by able writers. The first volunteers from Washtenaw joined the First Infantry, Michigan Volunteers, enlisting for three months, that being the period of service fixed by the authorities in charge as every one in the north sincerely believed, at that time, that the rebellion would be suppressed within that length of time. At the end of the first enlistment most people began to realize the magnitude of the undertaking and longer enlistments were necessary. The First Regiment was brought home and reorganized at the expiration of the three months and the men went in for three years, leaving the state September, 1861. In this regiment there were about one hundred and ninety-nine men from Washtenaw county out of a total of 950 men composing the regiment. Company A had the most of them with the captain, two non-commissioned officers and thirty-six privates, all from this county. The county was represented in the other companies as follows: Company B, two privates; Company C, the captain, five non-coms and twenty-six privates; Company D, lieutenant and eleven privates; Company E, lieutenant, two non-coms and nineteen privates; F, twenty-four privates; G, lieutenant, four non-coms and thirteen privates; H, one non-commissioned officer and twelve privates; I, lieutenant and five privates and K, first and second lieutenants, four non-coms and twenty-five privates. This regiment was in the battle of Bull Run, losing its colonel and twenty-eight men killed and nearly half the others wounded. There were also heavy losses by the regiment at Mechanicsburg, Antietam, Fredericksburg and Gettysburg and in the campaign of 1864 its losses were extremely severe. After the battle of Appomattox, in which the regiment was engaged, the men were sent to Jeffersonville, Indiana, where, July 9, 1865, they were mustered out. In the Second Infantry Washtenaw was represented by forty-one men and in the Third by only two. Company D, of the Fourth Infantry, was made up almost entirely of men from Washtenaw, the captain, both lieutenants, twelve noncommissioned officers, the wagoner and seventy-six privates being residents of the county. The major of one of the battalions, the assistant surgeon and sergeant-major were Washtenaw men. Company A had one Washtenaw man; the captain and one non-com in Company C; one man in Company F; two non-coms, eighteen men in Company G; one man in Company I; the captain, one lieutenant, six non-coms and fifty privates completed the list of Washtenaw men in that regiment. The Fourth left for the front in June, 1861, took part in the first battle of Bull Run, was engaged at New Bridge, Mechanicsville, Gaines' Mills, Malvern Hill, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, the Battle of the Wilderness and at Petersburg and finally mustered out in June, 1864. During these engagements the loss of the regiment was very severe, two colonels besides 157 men being killed in action, 320 wounded and twenty-six dying from disease, and 105 captured by the enemy. The regiment was reorganized in July, 1864, and sent to Tennessee and was engaged at or near Murfreesboro, spent part of the winter at HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 115 Huntsville, Alabama, going from there to Knoxville, Tennessee, arriving in March, 1865, going from there to New Orleans and in July to Texas where the regiment remained until May, 1866. At that date it was mustered out at Houston, Texas. There were very few men from this county in the Fifth Infantry, thirty-one in number, two being field and staff officers, one second lieutenant, three non-coms and twenty-five privates. In the Sixth Infantry Washtenaw served in eight different companies as follows: Company B, four privates; C, eight privates; D, one non-com and five privates; F, the captain and both lieutenants, twelve non-coms and wagoner and fifty-eight privates; G, five privates; H, five privates; I, four privates; K, two non-coms and five privates. In addition to this there were five other Washtenaw men, two not assigned to any company, two on the N. C. S. and one musician. The regiment left for the south in August, 1861, and was one of the first regiments to occupy New Orleans after its capture. In July, 1863, after hard campaigns, it was converted into a regiment of heavy artillery, and after serving as such for a time, was used as a regiment of engineers after which it again served as heavy artillery. It was mustered out in September, 1864. In the Seventh Infantry there were ten privates and in the Eighth there were as follows: Lieutenant of Company H and three noncoms, one musician and eighteen privates; one private each in Companies A, E, I and K, besides the sergeant-major and a quartermaster sergeant. This regiment left Detroit in September, 1861, and after serving with honor to themselves and state the men were mustered out in July, 1865. The Ninth Infantry contained one commissioned officer, six noncoms and ninety-four privates and one on the N. C. S. This regiment left Detroit just a month after the departure of the Eighth and was the first regiment of Michigan troops to be assigned to the western department. It was engaged at Murfreesboro, and Chickamauga, after which the regiment was returned to Michigan and reorganized as a veteran organization. The regiment returned to Chattanooga and was attached to headquarters of the department of the Cumberland. It then took part in the Georgia campaign after which it returned to Chattanooga where it remained until March, 1865, when it removed to Nashville, Tennessee, remaining there until September of that year when it was mustered out. In the Tenth Infantry there were Washtenaw men as follows: One non-com and four privates. In the Eleventh, before and after reorganization, there were Washtenaw men as follows: One commissioned officer, one N. C. S., one non-com and eighty-one privates. The regiment left the state in December, 1861, and was stationed during that winter in Kentucky. In the fight at Stony River the regiment lost heavily, was in the thickest of the fight at Chickamauga and served with credit until mustered out in September, 1865. The Twelfth Infantry contained two non-coms and eleven privates from this county. The Thirteenth, two commissioned officers, one 116 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY non-com and thirty-one privates, and the Fifteenth, ten privates from the county. The Fourteenth was represented as follows: One commissioned officer, fourteen non-coms and 110 privates, two musicians and a wagoner. This regiment assembled at Ypsilanti and left that place April 17, 1862, and joined the army, to which it had been assigned, at Pittsburg Landing. After making a splendid record the regiment was returned to Michigan and mustered out in July, 1865. Before being mustered out the regiment took part in the grand review held in Washington. The Sixteenth Infantry was represented as follows from the county: Two commissioned officers, four non-coms and seventy-one privates. The regiment was first known as Stockton's Independent Regiment and went into service in September, 1861, and was engaged in several battles, Hanover Court House, Gaines' Mills and Malvern Hill, during the summer of 1862. The regiment joined Pope's army at Fredericksburg and fought at the second battle of Bull Run in August and eighteen days later was in the thick of the fight at Antietam. This regiment was in many of the most important engagements of the war, made an enviable record and was mustered out after Lee's surrender. The Seventeenth Infantry had eighty-nine Washtenaw men, four commissioned officers, twelve non-coms and seventy-three privates. The regiment went south in August, 1862, performed its duty, marched in the grand review at Washington and was mustered out. The Eighteenth contained twenty-seven Washtenaw men. The Twentieth Infantry was made up, to a great extent, by men from this county as follows: Sixteen commissioned officers, fifty-five non-commissioned officers, six musicians, two wagoners and 346 privates, in addition to three N. C. S., a total of 425 Washtenaw men, practically one-half the regiment. This regiment left Jackson for Washington in September, 1862, was in the battle of Fredericksburg, then sent to reinforce Grant at Vicksburg, took part in the siege of Knoxville, Tennessee, and then rejoined the Army of the Potomac in time to engage in the Battle of the Wilderness and siege of Petersburg. The regiment took part in the grand review and was mustered out, having taken part in thirty engagements losing 602 men. Only a few Washtenaw men went into the Twenty-first, Twentysecond and Twenty-third Infantry regiments as follows: Two musicians and twenty-two privates in the three regiments. In the Twenty-fourth we find: Four non-coms and eighty privates. This regiment left Detroit in August, 1862, and served in Maryland and Virginia and was engaged at Fredericksburg, Port Royal and Fitz Hugh Crossing and later in the battle of Gettysburg, and was with the Army of the Potomac through the campaign of 1864. After many other engagements it was sent to Springfield, Illinois, and acted as escort at the funeral of President Lincoln. In the following June it was mustered out at Detroit. The regiment lost 716 men during the war. In the Twenty-fifth Infantry there was only one man from Washtenaw, an assistant surgeon. In the Twenty-sixth there were four com HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 117 missioned officers, two non-coms, a chaplain, a hospital steward and twenty-one enlisted men from the county. In the Twenty-seventh there were: One commissioned officer and thirty-four enlisted men. Attached to this regiment of Michigan troops were two independent companies of picked rifle shots as sharpshooters and in the first company were three Washtenaw men; in the second there were thirteen Washtenaw men. This regiment left Ypsilanti in April, 1863, and by June were in Mississippi. In 1865 it was made a part of the Army of the Potomac, marching through Tennessee and Kentucky, on through the Cumberland Gap, to Warrentown Junction, Washington and Manassas. The regiment was one to take part in the grand review and was mustered out in July, 1865, having lost 791 men. The Twenty-eighth Infantry had forty-eight Washtenaw men, all privates. It was a regiment raised in October, 1864, and on the 26th of that month was sent to Kentucky and later ordered to Mississippi but before it had reached that state, was ordered to join the forces in Virginia. The regiment was mustered out in June, 1865, after performing well all duties and work assigned to it. In the Twenty-ninth from Washtenaw there were: One commissioned officer and seven enlisted men. In the Thirtieth there were: One captain and forty-six privates. A splendid Michigan regiment was organized in 1861, and left its rendezvous at Marshall in December for Kentucky and Tennessee, where its principal work was the repair of railroads and defenses destroyed by the enemy. However, at the time, the regiment was called upon to defend itself and one occasion demonstrated the caliber of Michigan men, whether as soldiers or workers. On that occasion the regiment, a force of less than one thousand men, was attacked, suddenly, by two or three regiments of Rebel cavalry, a force of at least three thousand five hundred men, but the Wolverines drove them off and inflicted heavy loss upon the attackers. The regiment re-enlisted as a veteran regiment in 1864, participated in the grand review and was mustered out in September, 1865. The regiment lost 285 men. The First Michigan Sharpshooters regiment was organized in the fall of 1862 and spring of 1863, with its rendezvous at Dearborn. After assisting in driving Morgan out of Ohio and guarding prisoners at Chicago, the regiment was made a part of the Army of the Potomac. After having engaged in twenty-three battles and minor engagements, losing 383 men, the regiment was mustered out at the end of the war. In the regiment were Washtenaw men as follows: Nineteen enlisted men; thirteen Washtenaw men served with the Stanton Guards, three with the First United States Sharpshooters, five with Duesler's Sharpshooters, one with Stuart's Sharpshooters, one with Mather's Sharpshooters, eleven with Willitt's Sharpshooters, and one with the Fortyseventh Ohio Infantry. When the 102nd Regiment of U. S. colored troops was organized it was joined by ninety-five Washtenaw colored citizens and one white staff officer. Washtenaw had men in eleven cavalry regiments, from the First 118 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Michigan Cavalry to the Eleventh, inclusive, as follows: First, one commissioned officer, fourteen non-coms, one farrier, one wagoner, and 123 enlisted men. During the latter part of the war this regiment was consolidated with the Sixth and Seventh Michigan Cavalry, the consolidation being called the First Michigan Veteran Cavalry. Of this regiment eight companies were sent to Utah, after having participated in the battles in the vicinity of the national capital, Gettysburg, Winchester, being under Sheridan in the valley of the Shenandoah; was present at the surrender of Lee and had been in forty-one engagements. The eight companies remained in Utah until March, 1866, when the regiment was mustered out. It lost 664 men. In the Second Cavalry Washtenaw had men as follows: Fifteen enlisted men. In the Third Cavalry there were six commissioned officers, eighteen non-coms, one farrier, one wagoner, one musician, and 105 enlisted men. The regiment served from November, 1861, serving with Sheridan, to February, 1866, losing 493 men. In the Fourth Cavalry were: One captain, seventeen non-coms, two wagoners, one farrier and sixty-seven enlisted men. This regiment made a splendid record during its service from July, 1862, to July, 1865, losing 512 men. The regiment took active part in the capture of the Confederate president. There were 116 men from Washtenaw in the Fifth Cavalry, two commissioned and sixteen non-commissioned officers, one musician, one farrier, one saddler, and ninety-five enlisted men. From December, 1862, to July, 1865, this regiment maintained the standard of efficiency set by Michigan troops, fighting in 1864 and 1865 with Sheridan's famous corps, participating in the grand review; and was honorably discharged. Its loss was 522 men. In the Sixth Cavalry were: One commissioned officer, six non-coms, and twentythree enlisted men. In the Seventh: Two commissioned officers and sixty-five enlisted men. The regiment was raised in the latter part of the war, 1863, but in time to take part in the terrible conflict around Gettysburg. The regiment has a splendid record and was mustered out in the last month of 1865, having engaged in fifty-eight battles and lost 413 men. In the Eighth Cavalry there were sixty-eight enlisted men. The regiment was in thirty-nine engagements, losing 153 men during its term of service which included the years 1863-64-65. In the Ninth Cavalry were two N. C. S. and thirty-one enlisted men and in the Tenth Cavalry were sixty enlisted men. In the Eleventh Cavalry there were forty-three enlisted men. Three Washtenaw men were members of the "Merrill Horse." Washtenaw was represented in seven batteries: First Light Artillery, seventy-one enlisted men; second (Ross') Battery, five enlisted men; Third (Dee's), four non-coms, one artificer and eight enlisted men; Fifth (Dennis') Battery, one non-com and four enlisted men; Ninth (Daniels') Battery, one enlisted man, and in the Fourteenth Battery, forty-four enlisted men. Many of the Washtenaw men given as enlisted men and non-commissioned officers in the foregoing record of the different Michigan regiments were promoted to higher ranks, some reaching the staff. The HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 119 "Roll of Honor" containing the list of the men who sacrified their lives for the honor of Michigan and the preservation of the nation contains the names of two colonels, ten captains, thirteen lieutenants and 455 enlisted men and non-commissioned officers, a total of 480 men, a total that tells the story of the terrible ordeal and the part Washtenaw took in it. While it tells the story of the part taken by the men it does not tell the story of the work and sacrifices made by the mothers, the wives, sisters and daughters of those Washtenaw men during those terrible days. The war was ended and Michigan, Washtenaw and its citizens had nobly acquitted themselves. The men and women who had suffered so much were in hopes that never again should the youth (for it was mostly the boys who fought the war) of our nation be called upon for such sacrifices but, such is the spirit of our people, when the time came again the response was spontaneous. What else could be expected of the sons and grandsons of such men and women? Especially when the object was to free another nation of people from the burdens from the like of which our forefathers had fought to free our own nation. And when the time came that our national government could no longer ignore conditions in Cuba and the conduct of Spain and was compelled to declare a state of war with the latter nation the people of Washtenaw county were anxious to do their part. The people of the United States had never favored the maintenance of a large standing army and when the nation became involved in this war our regular army was entirely inadequate, therefore the country was called upon for volunteers. Prior to the proclamation of war the Michigan National Guard had been "on edge" with eagerness to show its mettle but the equipment of the guard, at that time, was very poor and inadequate. The state had tents and field cooking equipment sufficient for but one regiment while there were five regiments and two independent battalions to shelter and feed. Many of the rifles carried by the troops had been in the hands of the men for fifteen years, and damage to the sights, wear and tear and neglect had rendered them unserviceable. The rifle then in use was the old breech-loading Springfield and the weapon had long before become obsolete and should have been replaced with a modern rifle using smokeless powder and with a much longer range. Michigan's quota was 4,104 men as called for by the president's proclamation, issued April 23, 1898. On the next day orders were issued for the mobilization of the entire Michigan guard at Island Lake, at that time the regular encampment of the guard. At that place the regiments were reorganized, giving to each regiment twelve companies. Following in numerical order the infantry regiments raised in Michigan for the Civil war, the regiments as reorganized were designated as the Thirty-first, Thirty-second, Thirty-third and Thirty-fourth Michigan Volunteer Infantry.Company A, of Ann Arbor, under command of Captain Ross Granger, and Company G, of Ypsilanti, under command of Captain McKennan, were units of the Thirty-first regiment. Major John P. Kirk, of Ypsilanti, was in command of the Third battalion, and Colonel Cornelius Gardner in command of the regiment. The Thirty-first went 120 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY into camp with the other regiments of the Michigan National Guards and in May entrained for the camp at Chickamauga. After remaining in that place for some time the regiment was sent to Savannah and then on to Cuba as part of the army of occupation, in January, 1899. The regiment returned to the United States and was discharged, May 17, 1899, at Savannah. On the 4th day of April, 1917, the state of Michigan took the first steps in the greatest preparedness move in its history. Satisfied that the United States was face to face with a war with the German Empire, the legislature made provision for the loan of $5,000,000 to make sure and safe its contribution in men and munitions which the people of the great state might be called upon to make for the national defense. On the same date the United States Senate passed the following resolution; "Whereas, the Imperial German Government has committed acts of war against the Government and people of the United States; therefore, be it Resolved, by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, that a state of war between the United States and the Imperial German Government, which has thus been thrust upon the United States, is hereby formally declared, and that the president be and he is hereby authorized and directed to employ the entire naval and military forces of the United States and the resources of the Government to carry on war against the Imperial German Government, and, to bring the conflict to a successful termination, all the resources of the country are hereby pledged by the Congress of the United States." The next morning, at 3:00 o'clock, the resolution was passed by the House and at a little after noon of the next day, April 6th, the United States accepted Germany's challenge to war, and formally abandoned its place as the greatest neutral of the world in arms, the president having signed the resolution passed by both Houses. Word was flashed immediately to all army and navy stations and to vessels at sea. The president announced the state of war by proclamation, calling on all citizens to manifest their loyalty. The people of Michigan have reason to be proud of the manner in which they responded to the call of the president. No state outdistanced Michigan in quick action which is in keeping with the state's best traditions. Michigan's patriotic sons may well be as proud of their home state in those trying times as their fathers and grandfathers were proud of the state in another great crisis more than three score years ago. In our own county and cities the enthusiasm of the citizens was in evidence on all sides. Company I, Thirty-First Michigan Volunteer Infantry, stationed at Ann Arbor, having been notified that the National Guard would be mobilized on the 15th of July, immediately took steps to recruit the company up to war footing. In the training plans for the National Guard units the Michigan and Wisconsin troops were to go to the Mexican border as the Eleventh Division of the southern department. For some time there had been much speculation among the officers and men as to just what place the National Guard was to fill in the National service. Were they to fight under the banners of the old regiments or were they to lose their identity HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 121 as Michigan troops and be swallowed up in the great army to fight under strange officers? When, on the 10th of July, the president issued his proclamation drafting the entire state troops into the army of the United States, effective August 5, 1917, the question was still unsettled as far as the men knew. The Thirty-first regiment went into camp at the mobilization camp at Grayling, which soon took on a serious aspect with squads drilling in all parts of the reservation. The work of instruction covered the first series of drills for recruits and the more extended maneuvers for the older men. The aim of the officers was to whip the men into the best possible shape before leaving the mobilization camp. On the 18th of August, Company L, of the Thirty-second, with Company D, Thirty-first Michigan, Companies B and C, First Michigan Engineers, and troop A, left for Waco, Texas, to prepare the southern camp for the remainder of the brigade. In September the different regiments received orders to proceed to Waco, Texas, to be given intensive training in preparation for the strife with the Huns across the seas. About this time it was frankly admitted by the war department that the plan had been decided upon for the reorganization of the regular army and the National Guard from top to bottom following closely the French organization which had been built up after three years of active fighting. At the time it was a bitter pill for the Guards to swallow, especially for the crack regiments of the different states whose members had always taken a great pride in them and striven to improve and perfect them. Under the plan it was necessary to merge one National Guard regiment with another and by thus combining the two units, or splitting one regiment and joining the halves thus made to two other regiments, the enlarged regiments would have a maximum of men who had had some training and experience, an important matter as it had been stated that the National Guard was the next body of troops to be sent to France. Notwithstanding the disappointment of the officers and men concerned, every one was anxious to see the troops built up into a fighting machine which would prove to be the most effective and efficient. At the outbreak of the war the Michigan National Guard was composed of three infantry regiments; the Thirty-first, Thirty-second and Thirty-third constituting the infantry brigade; four troops of cavalry, the First Field Artillery, brigade headquarters detachment, two companies of engineers, two companies of signal corps troops, one field hospital and two ambulance companies. When the Michigan troops had arrived at Camp MacArthur they learned that, under the orders of July 18th, the Thirty-second Division was to be organized from the National Guard troops of Michigan and Wisconsin. Under the new system the infantry brigade was to consist of two instead of three regiments, which necessitated the breaking up of one of the Michigan regiments and the Thirty-first, being the junior regiment, was divided between the old Thirty-second and Thirty-third regiments. The Thirtythird was designated as the 125th Infantry and the Thirty-second as the 126th Infantry. Colonel Pack, commanding officer of the broken up Thirty-first was appointed as acting division inspector, a post he held for three months when he became commanding officer of the 125th 122 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Infantry. The Ann Arbor company became Company E of the 126th Infantry in command of Captain Arthur Volland. Each regiment, as reorganized, was made up of twelve infantry companies of 250 men each, one machine gun company with 172 men, one headquarters company with 289 men, one supply company with 140 men and a sanitary detachment with fifty-two men. In reorganizing the regiment, original company organizations were preserved but consolidation was necessary to bring companies to required strength. The regiments were divided into three battalions of four companies each. With the reorganization effected Colonel Joseph B. Westnedge was in command of the regiment and Captain Arthur G. Volland in command of Company E, of Ann Arbor. About the middle of January, 1918, after months of intensive training in trench digging, night marching, hand grenade throwing, rifle practice, wire entanglement fighting and building, the Michigan troops were entrained at Camp MacArthur for "somewhere in the east.". This "somewhere" proved to be Camp Merritt, New Jersey, from which point the regiment entrained for Hoboken where they embarked on the transport "General Grant." On March 4th the Thirty-second Division reached France, being the sixth division to join the A. E. F. in that country. The whereabouts of the Ann Arbor boys, as well as that of the entire division was concealed as much as possible from the public for some time after its arrival in France but on the 18th of June the war department authorized the announcement that the Thirty-second Division, including Michigan and Wisconsin National Guard troops, was at that time fighting on German territory in Alsace. Whoever attempts to write the history of the part taken by troops of the United States in the World war will be faced by extraordinary difficulties. The tangible results of our military effort, when reduced to earthly lines, consists of narrow rectangular strips, small triangles and various symmetrical patches upon the map of France. To designate the exact place where the Americans came in and where the French and British left off, or vice versa, is an altogether baffling undertaking. It is impossible to unscramble the egg of glory. Take, for instance, the glorious achievement of one American division, the Thirty-second, made up as we have seen, almost exclusively of men from Michigan and Wisconsin, which, between July 29th and August 5th, cut a bloody swath about a mile and a quarter wide northward from Ourcq to the Vesle over a rolling, picturesque country, beside participating in the recapture from the Germans of the towns of Ceirges, Roncheres, Coulonges, Fismes, as well as half a dozen woods bristling with enemy machine gun nests. The reader, if interested in the story of the work of the men of the 126th Infantry in the World war, is referred to the history of the 126th Infantry in the war with Germany written by Captain Emil B. Gansser, now of Grand Rapids, in which, while devoted to the history of that regiment, is given a clear and fair idea of the part taken by all. Suffice it to say that the regiment took an active part in the following engagements: Alsace defensive sector; Chateau-Thierry or Aisne-Marne offensive; Soissons sector or Oise-Aisne offensive HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 123 (Juvigny); Meuse-Argonne offensive and service during the occupation of Germany by the Army of Occupation. On the 19th of April, 1919, the regiment began the long trip home, and arriving in the United States the men of the regiment were sent to nineteen different demobilization camps and each man honorably discharged. Thus ended the service of the 126th Infantry in the greatest war of all times, with a record second to none. Thus far we have only referred to the boys who saw service in the war as members of the Guard. But the county was represented by greater numbers who were assigned to many other units and branches of the service and therefore making it impossible to follow them. Washtenay men and women played a big part in the war and no county in the Union, in proportion to its population, contributed more men in the various branches of service or more patriotic civil aid in the support of the government and response to its calls for financial assistance. Men from our county helped turn back the great hordes of invaders at Chateau Thierry; fought the Bolsheviki at Archangel; helped to minimize the danger of ocean travel by fighting on our battleships, cruisers, torpedo destroyers, submarine chasers and other war craft; helped fight the German to a finish in the air; helped to break through lines of defense of the enemy up to that time considered impregnable. They had risked their lives in carrying the wounded from the battlefields and, in hospitals and field stations, had ministered to the wounded and sick, and in a thousand other ways proved themselves Michiganders. The acquiescence of the people of the county in the matter of compulsory registration, as required by the proclamation of the president, was prompt and hearty, and if there was opposition at all it was quickly drowned by the general state of feeling in the matter. For some weeks, following the issuance of that proclamation, futile attempts were made in all parts of the United States, more pronounced in some than others, to render the efforts of the government along these lines, a failure. Prompt and effective steps were taken at once to stop the treasonable work. The people of Washtenaw, inspired with the patriotism of Americans responding to the call to arms, availed themselves of every opportunity to pay reverent tribute to the Stars and Stripes during that trying first year. As each quota of Washtenaw men left the county the people turned out to bid them God's speed, and if, at times, there was an absence of cheering it was a feeling of respect and reverence that was manfested rather by a bared head than in an exhibition of lung power. The people had awakened to the seriousness of the war, had begun to realize that the country was about to engage in a terrible struggle terrific in its dimensions, demanding the sacrifice of the lives of many of the boys, with its attendant suffering and misery, but still with that feeling deep down in their hearts as expressed by one old soldier in addressing a meeting of the citizens when he said to them: "I know that it is hard for you to see your boys go away to war but I also know that there is not a mother here who would not be ashamed if she thought her boy was not prepared to do his duty." How well the boys of those mothers did their duty has been told. 124 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY It was not a militant nation which Germany had goaded into declaring war when she, by her actions, brought the United States of America into the World war, but rather one which had ignored the possibility of such an event at any time in the future, supinely reposing in the belief that she could, overnight, prepare an effectual defense. Sadly deficient in every item necessary, with the exception of raw man power, to the carrying on of such a war, the government had been able after many months to fit that power to successfully oppose any such hostile power that might be brought against it, but it was realized that this man power must be maintained, at all times, in that fit condition, and when the president called upon the nation to supply the man power he did not overlook one element of the nation's strength, the women. On April 7, 1917, immediately after the declaration of war, the president sent out the following to the Red Cross organization and its branches in reference to the "relief work which is undoubtedly ahead of us": "In order that the relief work should be made thoroughly efficient it is most desirable that it be co-ordinated and concentrated under one organization. Having been made the official volunteer aid organization of the United States, the American Red Cross comes under the protection of the treaty of Geneva and has received the due recognition from all foreign governments. This status, both home and abroad, is thus definitely determined and assured. Recent experience has made it more clear than ever that a multiplicity of relief agencies tends to bring about confusion, implication, delay and waste. As the president of the American Red Cross, our branch of the great international organization, I most earnestly commend it to your assistance and support. Upon your aid, upon the amounts and promptness, and your gifts and cooperation must depend the fulfillment of the duties that are imposed upon us." To recite in full all that was done and accomplished by the various civic organizations in Washtenaw county in aiding the government to carry out its plans for the prosecution of the war would require more than a volume and we are compelled to but briefly outline their magnificent work. That immense organization, the American Red Cross, with its bureaus and its departments for directing relief in all parts of the globe, for medical service and information concerning the dead and wounded, was officially recognized by the government in 1882, the year following the incorporation of the American Association of the Red Cross, afterwards changed to American Red Cross. During the years of its existence prior to the World war the conception of the scope of the work which should be done by such a national body was greatly enlarged. War is not the only scourge of mankind that overwhelms beyond the hope of private charity. It became evident to all thinking people that it was not only essential to be ready for national disaster but to make it somebody's business to be ready. But it was not until the Red Cross took command that there was any system, method or efficiency. In 1905 the Red Cross was reorganized by an act of Congress into the official relief organization of the country. It became the official medium for communication between the army, the navy and the people; the recognized force for meeting national calamity of any kind. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 125 Foreign countries recognize and respect its ensign in peace and war. This was the organization which the president appealed to and whose duty it was to meet the occasion. Under splendid leadership the women of the county began the work expected of Washtenaw and soon had reported that the following articles had been shipped to France: Five hundred and sixty-five women and children's articles; 62 men's articles; 878 hospital articles; 122 comfort pillows; 76 articles of clothing; 636 surgical dressings, and 42 socks and scarfs. These articles were shipped prior to July, 1917, and in the same year the membership of the Ann Arbor chapter was increased greatly and in the entire county over six thousand new members were added by December. H. W. Douglas was the county chairman, Mrs. Rudolph Fisher, secretary, and Miss Alice Douglas had charge of shipments. In 1918 the Red Cross redoubled its efforts and a shipment made in May is an indication of the immense amount accomplished: Gauze dressings, 8,397; muslin dressings, 789; hospital garments, 809; hospital linen, 195; knitted articles, 600 and refugee garments, 174, a total of 11,064 garments. It is impossible to give all the figures showing the work of the Red Cross of this county during the war as the records could not be located, but the following report of May 29, 1918, is indicative of the work for the entire period. With a quota of $30,000 for the county in the Red Cross War Fund drive Washtenaw went nearly fifty per cent over the top and the report of that date showed: Ypsilanti $9,200, nearly' four thousand dollars over quota; Chelsea $3,735, $750 over; in the remaining items the first is the quota and the second the amount subscribed: Dexter, $1,141-$1,710; Saline, $1,743 -$3,200; Milan, $1,611-$2,007; Manchester, $2,301-$1,678; Salem, $573 —$616; Whitmore Lake, $654-$180, and Ann Arbor, $13,000 -$18,314. In April another shipment was made as follows: Surgical dressings, gauze, 22,712; linen, 2,425; hospital linens, 5,537; hospital garments, 710; refugee garments, 126, and miscellaneous, 19, a total of 27,197 articles. The following month the Red Cross furnished 200 bed comforts for the mechanics at the university barracks. The schools were quick to respond to the call for organization as Junior Red Cross workers and each school became an active auxiliary in which all did their bit, from the little ones in the kindergartens, who cut scraps of cloth for filling comfort cushions to high school girls who cut and made garments for the refugees of France and Belgium. In September a total of 6,607 articles were shipped by the county chapter and included, 3,596 gauze surgical dressings; linen, 575; 445 hospital garments; 70 pieces of hospital linen; 1,242 knitted garments, and 679 refugee garments. The drives for the sale of War Savings Stamps were splendidly supported. It is greatly to be regretted that the records are not available showing the immense work (lone by the men and women of Washtenaw in support of the various Liberty Loan drives. Sometimes working under adverse conditions the county invariably "went over the top." Early in the war the governor appointed the following as the Washtenaw County War Board: Henry W. Douglas, 126 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY George W. Millen, Roscoe O. Bonisteel, Hugh Van de Walker and William B. Hatch. Mr. Douglas became chairman of the Red Cross, Mr. Millen had charge of Liberty Loan drives, and Mr. Hatch the Y. M. C. A. drives. Mr. Bonisteel, until he went into the army, acted as organizer in all the activities. The board was ably assisted by Lloyd C. Douglas, Horatio J. Abbott, Charles Sink, Francis M. Bacon, Mrs. Roy McAlpine, L. P. Hall, Frank C. Pack, Fred Gallop, and Dr. A. G. Wall, of Dexter; Karl Curtis and George Lehman, of Saline; Frank Boyle and Fred Wheeler, of Salem; Matt Blosser, M. M. Root, James Waters and Thomas J. Farrell, of Manchester; Allen Forsythe, Dr. Kenneth Noble and William N. Benge, of Milan, and N. S. Potter and Herbert Witherell, of Chelsea. The work of these was supplemented by the loyal and untiring endeavors of hundreds of other patriotic men and women of the county, without whose assistance the work would have failed. In common with the Y. M. C. A. organizations throughout the state the local Y. M. C. A. associations of the county were active during the entire war. Ray E. Bassett, of the Y. M. C. A. accompanied drafted men to the camp at Custer, provided reading matter for the boys and aided in many ways in making the boys comfortable. The Y. W. C. A. did their bit in every way possible, gave to the war fund, supplied comforts for Red Cross nurses in the field and assisted in making more pleasant the conditions at the various cantonments, especially the places of entertainment of women visitors to sons and brothers. Washtenaw county's quota for the Y. M. C. A. war fund in 1917 was $20,000 and $29,004 was subscribed. The committee in charge was: C. Wagner, Ann Arbor; Wm. B. Hatch, Ypsilanti; W. F. Allen, Milan; George Lehman, Saline; E. C. Dresselhouse, Manchester; P. W. Dierberger, Chelsea, and A. D. Miles, of Dexter. In the sale of War Savings Stamps in 1918 the quota of Washtenaw county was $899,210 cash value and by December 1st stamps to the amount of $1,078,500 had been sold. During the year One Thousand Dollar Clubs were formed and those buying $1,000 in stamps became members. The work of the Boy Scouts cannot be overlooked, they being especially effective in "clean up work." In a report made in November, 1918, by the board of education the donations of money earned or saved, to the war fund by the Victory Girls and Victory Boys, clubs composed of boys and girls between the ages of twelve and twenty, shows: High school, $1,984.75; Central eighth grade, $313; Perry school, $304.80; Bach school, $79.40; Mack, $43; Jones school, $67.50; Tappan school, $193; Eberbach school, $113.50; St. Thomas, $215.50, and employed girls, $276-a total of $3,590.45. CHAPTER IX PRESS THE first newspaper started in Washtenaw county was the Western Emigrant and edited by Thomas Simpson. Samuel W. Dexter, feeling that the editorials were not suitable, bought the paper within a few weeks of its start, the first number having been issued October 18, 1829. Two issues sufficed for Dexter and the paper was sold to Samuel Camp and L. Hawley but Mr. Simpson continued as its editor until the close of the year when he retired and Dexter again took hold with John Allen. Dexter's editorials, especially those directed against the Masonic order, drove many of the subscribers away from the support of the paper but the paper continued its attacks. Allen retired from the paper in 1831 although he wrote editorials for the paper for some time afterwards. George Corselius was the nominal editor but subject to the will and dictation of Dexter. In 1832 Corselius became sole owner and publisher and, in 1834, changed the name of the paper to the Michigan Whig. Dexter seems to have retained some "hold" on the business as he objected to the change of name and by a compromise the name was again changed to the Washtenaw Democrat, under which name it was sold in the fall of 1835 to G. W. Wood & Company, who gave it another name-State Journal. In April, 1836, Dr. Drake bought it and ran it for about a year, selling to Edwin Lawrence in March, 1837. In May, 1839, Lawrence sold the paper to Franklin Sawyer, Jr., who continued to be its editor until February, 1844, although he had sold it in 1841. The paper continued its existence until the Civil war. The Ann Arbor Argus was the second venture in the newspaper field, beginning as the Michigan Argus in 1835. In 1840 the name was changed to the Free Democrat and was then owned by a stock company, which bought the business from E. P. Gardner, the founder. Thepolicy of the paper displeased some of the owners and Gardner started another paper which he called the Michigan Argus and shortly afterwards the two papers were consolidated. In 1854 the Argus was sold to E. P. Pond who ran the paper until 1878, making it one of the strongest papers in the state. John N. Bailey then ran the paper until 1886 when he sold to Samuel W. Beakes, E. J. Morton becoming interested with Mr. Beakes very soon afterwards. New equipment was installed, a modern press taking the place of the old Washington hand press. In 1898 the Ann Arbor Daily Argus began its career. The two weeklies, the Argus and Democrat having been combined a short time before, and published by a corporation as the Ann Arbor ArgusDemocrat. The Peninsular Courier was first issued in June, 1861, and after a few months was consolidated with the Ypsilanti Herald, and published by the owners, Clark, Woolsey & Company, as the Peninsular Courier and Ypsilanti Herald. After a few issues the name was shortened by dropping the name Ypsilanti Herald. In 1865 A. W. Chase became the 128 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY owner and the following year changed its name to Peninsular Courier and Family Visitant. In 1869 Rice A. Beal bought the paper. Beal also bought the Ann Arbor Register and published the two under the name of Ann Arbor Courier-Register. Beal's son sold the paper to the Ann Arbor Printing Company which failed in 1902 and the paper, with the Washtenaw Times, owned by the company, was published by the receiver. In 1903 the Ann Arbor Times Company was organized and that company continued the publication of the Times as a daily and the Courier as a weekly. The Ann Arbor Times-News, the county's leading paper, is a combination of the Argus, established in 1835, the Times News, established in 1889 and the News, established in 1905. About 1908 the Times Company bought the News and the company was reorganized with D. W. Brandin as managing editor. In 1909 R. T. Dodson bought an interest in the company and became its managing editor. In 1910 he bought the Warren interests and the name was changed to the one used at this time. Mr. Dobson continued the publication of the Times News until 1919 when he sold to the Booth Publishing Company and under the new organization C. H. McKinley became business manager and R. Ray Baker became the managing editor. The Ann Arbor Register was started in 1872 by A. W. Chase and several others and continued its existence until 1899 when it was consolidated with the Courier. In 1857 S. B. McCracken began the publication of the Local News and Advertiser. In 1859 the name was changed to Ann Arbor Local News and shortly afterwards to Michigan State News. The paper suspended publication in 1863. In 1878 the Ann Arbor Democrat made its appearance published by John L. Burleigh. The paper was edited for some time by Emma E. Bower, a sister of Henry Bower who had owned the paper before his death. Charles A. Ward obtained possession of the paper and, in 1898, combined it with the Argus. In 1879 Louis J. Lesimer began the publication of the first German paper in Washtenaw county. In 1892 a second German paper was started by Paul G. Sukey and the rivalry between the two became very bitter. Sukey finally bought out the Lesimer paper, The W;ashtcnaw Post, and combined it with his own, the Hausfreund, under the name of the Hausfreund and Post. In 1895 Mr. Lesimer became the owner, shortly to be succeeded by Alfred J. Paul. Eugene J. Helber had begun the publication of the Neue Washtenaw Post in 1894 and Mr. Lesimer, having again come into ownership of the old paper, sold to Mr. Hebler who combined the two under the old name of Washtenaw Post. The paper had been published in the German language until the United States became involved in the World war when the English was substituted and since maintained. Mr. Helber died in 1922 and the paper came under the control of his son, James E. Helber. At the same time Judson Grenell became the editor and has so remained, with the exception of one year, October, 1923, to October, 1924, spent in Europe. Two or three attempts had been made to establish a daily paper in Ann Arbor but none were long lived until the publication of the Ann HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 129 Arbor Daily Times, in 1890, by H. W. Glover with Fred C. Brown as editor. In 1900 the paper became the property of the Ann Arbor Printing Company and the Times was then made an evening paper. When that company failed in 1902 the paper was made a morning paper again under the management of Otto Hans. In 1903 the Ann Arbor Times Company, with Robert L. Warren at its head, bought the paper. The Washtenaw Daily News began its publication in December, 1905, under the management and editorship of Glen C. Stimson. W. W. Wedemeyer was president of the owning corporation. It. began as a large seven-column quarto. In 1908 this paper was bought by the Warren interests and merged with the Times, and is now published as the Times News. The Michigan Daily, a newspaper issued by and in the interests of the students of the University during the school months, both of the regular and summer periods, has been a success from its inception. Prior to October, 1890, the time of establishment, the fraternity organ had been the Chronicle published semi-monthly, but those in charge of the students' paper, the University of Michigan Daily, decided to begin the publication of a new weekly to be known as the Independent, the name of the first paper started by the students which afterwards became the U. of M. Daily. The paper was issued as a daily instead of a weekly as first designed. In the same year The Inlander made its appearance, published monthly by the students, and is still being issued. For a short time the monthly was published under the name Whimsies but about the first of the present year the old name was resumed. The Lady Maccabees was published in Ann Arbor for a number of years and attained one of the largest circulations in the state. In Ypsilanti the first paper, The Ypsilanti Republican, established in 1837, had but a short existence and ceased publication the following year. Six years later the Ypsilanti Sentinel was started with John Van Fossen as editor. The paper was established for the purpose of supporting the Whig candidate for president in 1844 but that party suffering defeat the owners turned the plant over to Charles Woodruff who continued its publication until 1847. The printing outfit was obtained by Aaron Guest who issued a paper for a year called the Ypsilanti Chronicle. In 1848 Woodruff again became the owner and changed the name back to the Sentinel and the paper was continued under that name by Woodruff and then by his son, M. T. Woodruff until 1898, a period of fifty years. In that year Woodruff sold to a man by the name of Francis who failed to make a success of the paper, having attempted its publication as a daily. Through foreclosure proceedings the paper became the property of the Democrat Publishing Company, of Ann Arbor, and this company then combined the Sentinel with the Ypsilanti Commercial under the name of the Sentinel-Commercial. The Ypsilanti Commercial was started in 1864 under the name of the Ypsilanti True Democrat, which name it retained but a very short time. C. P. Patterson continued its publication many years and it eventually became the property of G. M. Monroe who made it a daily in 1901. The daily was not a success financially and the plant fell into the hands of 130 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY the Democrat Publishing Company who combined it with the Sentinel as before stated. The Ypsilantian was established in 1880 by M. T. Woodruff who made of it a very modern publication. It was later sold by him to Messrs. Smith and Powers. W. M. Osband bought the interest of Mr. Powers and, later on, the interest of Smith. In 1904 a stock company was formed for the publication of a new daily, the Ypsilanti Press under the management of Frank Coddrington, one of the principal stockholders. In 1908 the Ypsilantian and Press were consolidated and the word "Ypsilantian" dropped. George C. Handy is the present owner, editor and publisher. The Record was bought by Mr. Handy in 1925 and combined with the Press. The county at large has been well represented by good newspapers. In 1867 two country papers were started, one at Grass Lake, the Herald, by Andrew Allison, and the other in Manchester by Geo. A. Spafford, called the Manchester Enterprise. After running the Herald at Grass Lake for about four years Allison removed it to Chelsea and called it the Chelsea Herald. The Herald continued until 1905 when it was combined with the Standard and published under the name Chelsea Standard-Herald. The Manchester Enterprise became the property of M. D. Blosser in 1868. The Chelsea Standard was started more than forty years ago and became one of the best papers published in the county. The Rev. Thomas Holmes was its first editor and then O. T. Holmes published it for many years. In 1905 it was combined with the Herald. The Saline Review was started in 1872 by David Sherwood who published the paper in the village of Saline for about eighteen months when he removed it to Plymouth. In 1875 W. W. Secord started another, the Saline Oracle, which ceased to exist after one year. Then L. J. Lesimer started the Saline Standard and in 1879 the paper was sold to the Democrat Publishing Company. In 1880 the Saline Observer began its publication by Lebaron & Company, with George Nisely as editor. The paper was bought in 1888 by A. J. Warren. A. B. Smith and A. E. Putnam started the publication of the Milan Leader in 1881. Mr. Smith acquired sole ownership very soon afterwards and continued its publication for seventeen years. Another paper, the Milan Journal, had been started in competition with the Leader but was bought by Mr. Smith and consolidated with the original paper of the village. In 1905 the Leader was sold to Frank L. Gates. CHAPTER X BENCH AND BAR URING the first epoch in the history of jurisprudence in Michigan' the supreme court consisted of three judges appointed by the president of the United States. These three judges sat as a court with common law jurisdiction and sat as a legislative body with the governor as ex-officio chairman. The court had exclusive jurisdiction in all land cases and criminal cases involving capital punishment; concurrent jurisdiction in all other civil cases where the amount in controversy was of the value of $200. The territory was divided into three districts and it was provided that one of the judges of the supreme court should preside in a district with two associates in each district who were laymen. Inferior courts were established for the transaction of small civil business. One of the first three supreme court judges was Augustus B. Woodward who bought land in our county and who was responsible for naming Ypsilanti. He was also responsible for the way in which Detroit was platted and laid out on a scale of great magnificance. Another creature of his mind was an institution of education, called the Catholepistemiad, incorporated in 1817, with an array of professorships bearing unpronounceable Greek and Latin titles, governed by a president, vicepresident and other officials and as some one has written "while we may smile at the conceit and vagaries of the man whose peculiar genius is shadowed forth by this dream, do not fail to remember that the 'Catholepistemiad' of the eccentric chief justice has become the University of Michigan to which so many lawyers are indebted." In 1823 the jurisdiction of the supreme court was extended to equity cases. The first court established in Washtenaw county was the county court and the first session was held in a private house in Ann Arbor, January, 1827. The Honorable Samuel W. Dexter, chief justice and Oliver Whitmore constituted the court. The prosecuting attorney was B. F. H. Witherell, and the principal business seemed to be passing on the applications of various citizens for license to sell liquor or to operate a tavern. The court also seemed to have ideas as to the qualifications necessary for the admission to practice law as on the first day the application of a Mr. Belden was denied as the court deemed him not eligible. It is evident, however, that Belden must have afterwards "brushed up" for the records show that he practiced for six or seven years and is referred to as the "first attorney of the county." At this session of the Washtenaw county court an indictment was returned against Erastus Priest, charged with selling liquor without the proper license. After two hours' deliberation the jury brought in a verdict of not guilty. Erastus owned the house in which the court was sitting. The circuit court of the county of Washtenaw, established by an act of the legislative council and approved April 13, 1827, and presided over by one of the judges of the supreme court, held its first session in the 132 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY county in November, 1829. Judge Woodbridge was the presiding judge. In 1833 the county courts in all the counties east of Lake Michigan, with the exception of Wayne, were abolished and their places supplied by "the circuit court of the Territory of Michigan." It consisted of one circuit judge for the entire circuit and two associate judges for each county. The circuit judge was appointed for four years and the associate judges for three. The court had both chancery and common law jurisdiction and had original jurisdiction of civil cases at law and crimes not within the jurisdiction of the justice of the peace and appellate jurisdiction of such as were. It might also determine questions of law arising on motion for new trial or in arrest of judgment. The circuit courts already existing were now called superior courts. By an act of the legislative council the judges of the supreme court were relieved from holding circuit court and a circuit judge was appointed in each district. William A. Fletcher was appointed as judge for this county and held the court from 1833 until the territorial courts were superseded by the judicial tribunals organized under the state constitution. Judge Fletcher, who became the first chief justice of the supreme court of the state of Michigan, was born in the state of New Hampshire, later removed to New York, studied law and was admitted to the bar. He came to Detroit in 1821 and was appointed chief justice of the county court of Wayne county. In 1833 the legislative council organized a judicial circuit embracing all the organized counties of the territory except Wayne. Fletcher was appointed judge of the circuit so organized. He removed to Ann Arbor where he resided until his death. Upon organization of the state he was appointed chief justice of the supreme court but he resigned in 1842. He died in Ann Arbor in August 1853, and was buried in an iron coffin in an unmarked grave in the old cemetery, now Felch Park. Some years ago workmen digging for water pipes discovered his coffin. It was identified and removed to Forest Hill Cemetery by a joint committee of the Pioneer and Historical Societies of Washtenaw county and the state of Michigan and the State Bar Association. A suitable boulder was provided for the monument and the county surveyors have been asked for an appropriation for the tablet. By revision of 1846 the court of chancery was abolished and chancery powers conferred upon the several circuit courts. The constitution of 1850 made the office of circuit judge elective and the term of office six years. By the act of 1851 the state was appointed into eight districts. Upon the resignation of Judge Fletcher, Judge Alpheus Felch was appointed. Judge Felch was born in Maine in 1806. When three years old he was left an orphan and found a home with his grandfather. After attending the district schools he entered an academy in the neighborhood and when fifteen years old entered Phillips Exeter Academy; from that school he went to Bowdoin College from which he graduated in 1827, at the age of twenty-one. After studying law for two or three years he was admitted to practice at Bangor, Maine, in 1830. He HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 133 practiced law at Houlton, Maine, until 1833 when he came to Michigan and opened an office and practiced at Monroe for ten years. In 1843 he came to Ann Arbor. While residing at Monroe he had been elected to the state legislature and served during the years 1836 and 1837. While a member of the legislature he had strongly opposed the proposed system of banking, but, in spite of his vigorous fight, he was only able to muster two votes, besides his own, against what he deemed a very bad law. In 1838 he was appointed one of the bank commissioners. In the meantime the new law, which he had opposed, had produced just the effect he had predicted and numerous "wild cat" banks had sprung up all over the state. Fortunately for the people of Michigan the bank commission was composed of men of the caliber of Judge Felch and they soon exposed the frauds at every point. These frauds they fearlessly reported to the legislature. Judge Felch becoming wearied and disgusted with conditions resigned as a bank commissioner but not before the chartered privileges of most of the banks had been forfeited and the law declared repealed. In 1842 Judge Felch was appointed auditor general of the state, but he retained this office but a few weeks when he became a member of the supreme court. In 1843 he was elected to the United States senate and in 1845 was elected governor of the state of Michigan. In 1847 he resigned as governor to go back into the senate. In 1853 Judge Felch was appointed, by the president, one of the commissioners to adjust and settle the Spanish and Mexican land claims in California. In 1856 this duty was completed and he returned to Ann Arbor resuming the practice of his profession. In 1873 he retired. For many years he was one of the regents of the University and in 1879 became Tappan Professor of Law in that institution. Upon the resignation of Judge Felch, Judge Warner Wing became judge by appointment, and afterwards by election. Judge Wing was born in Marietta, Ohio. He never resided in Washtenaw county, his home being at Monroe. The court of chancery was established in 1836 and sessions held in this county by Judge Elon Farnsworth until 1842 and thereafter by Judge Rudolph Manning until 1847 when the court was abolished and the circuit court granted chancery powers. JUDGES OF THt CIRCUIT COURT From 1842 to 1845 Judge Felch, as stated in preceding pages, presided over the circuit court in Washtenaw county and upon his resignation Judge Warner Wing was appointed. Judge Wing very shortly afterwards resigned, having been assigned to another district, and Judge George Miles was appointed, in 1846, to succeed him. Judge Miles died during his term of office and was succeeded by Judge David Johnson, of Jackson. Judge Johnson continued to preside in Washtenaw county until the reorganization of the court under the constitution of 1850. Under the provisions of that constitution the judges of the circuit courts were elected. Judge Johnson was elected and continued to serve to the end of his term. His successor was Judge Edwin Lawrence who served from 1857 to 1869. Judge Samuel Higby occupied the bench from 1869 to 1874, 134 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY resigning in the latter year. Alexander D. Crane was appointed to fill the vacancy caused by Judge Higby's resignation. Judge Crane was followed by Judge George M. Huntington who had been elected in 1876. Judge Huntington served one term and was followed by Chauncey Joslyn who was elected in 1882. In 1888 Edward D. Kinne was elected judge of the Washtenaw county circuit court and continued in that position until 1918. In that year Judge George W. Sample was elected to succeed Judge Kinne and again in 1924 to succeed himself. Judge Edward D. Kinne was born in DeWitt Center, near Syracuse, New York, in February, 1842. His father was Julius C. Kinne, a man mentally strong; his mother was Rachael C. Wetherby. The Judge attended the district school until fifteen years old and then prepared for college at Cavenobia. He entered the University of Michigan in 1860 and graduated in 1864. He then entered the Columbia Law School at Washington, earning his livelihood, in the meantime, by performing clerical work in the diplomatic division of the treasury department. He graduated from the law school and was admitted to the bar in the District of Columbia. He soon came to Michigan, locating at Ann Arbor, where he began the practice of his profession. The only law partnership he formed was with Olney Hawkins and that was terminated in 1869 when he was elected city recorder, an office he held for two terms. In 1871 he was chosen city attorney holding the position three terms. He was elected mayor of Ann Arbor in 1876 and re-elected the following term. In 1879 he was elected to the state legislature. He was elected judge of the circuit court, on the Republican ticket, in 1887, notwithstanding Monroe and Washtenaw counties, comprising the circuit at that time, were both strongly democratic. He was re-elected in 1893. Judge Kinne retired from the bench in 1917 and devoted his time to his own business matters until his death in July, 1921. Judge Edwin Lawrence settled in Ann Arbor in 1832 and became identified with the sturdy pioneers and the men who contributed so much to the prosperity and glory of the state. He was judge of the circuit court for twelve years. In May, 1857, he was appointed to fill a vacancy on the supreme court bench occasioned by the resignation of Judge David Johnson. After leaving the bench he resumed active practice and retired in 1874. COUNTY COURTS Under territorial jurisdiction, beginning in 1815, county courts were established. For years these were the only intermediate courts between the justice and the supreme courts. County courts were abolished in 1833. In 1846 the legislature again provided for county courts in lieu of the district court which, at the same time, had been abolished. In 1850 the county courts were once more abolished by provisions in the new state constitution. In 1853 an act was passed by the state legislature providing for the removal of all files and papers, remaining in former county courts, to the circuit courts for their respective jurisdictions, where they were authorized to be and remain in the same force and effect as theretofore. When the county court was established in Washtenaw county in HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 135 1846, Judge Charles W. Lane was elected presiding judge but died during his term of office and Judge Edwin Lawrence, having been appointed to fill the vacancy, remained on the bench as such until the act establishing the court was repealed in 1850. PROBATE COURTS In 1818 an act of the territorial legislative council provided for the establishment of a court of probate in each county to be presided over by a judge appointed by the governor. In 1838 the office of judge of the probate court was made elective and the term of office made four years. Appeals were allowed to the circuit and to the supreme courts. The revision of the act affecting probate courts, made in 1846, provided for direct appeals to the circuit court only. The constitution of 1850 provided for a probate court in each organized county, the judge of which was to be elected for a term of four years. The new constitution of 1909 gives probate courts original jurisdiction in all cases of juvenile delinquents and dependents. At the organization of the probate court in 1827 Bethuel Farrand was appointed its first judge. At the next election James Kingsley became judge of the probate court and held the position two terms, from 1828 to 1836. James Kingsley was born in Canterbury, Connecticut, in 1797. The Judge studied at Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, and read law in Brooklyn, Connecticut, and was soon admitted to the bar. Feeling that the west offered more opportunity for a young attorney he went to Mississippi but an epidemic of a dangerous sickness having broken out in that state he came to Michigan, arriving at the village of Ann Arbor on foot in the year 1826. He purchased some land three or four miles north of the village and devoted his time to its clearing until the court was established when he began the practice of his chosen profession. In 1828 he was elected probate judge to succeed Judge Farrand and held that office two terms. In 1830 he became a member of the legislative council which he retained for three years. In 1831 he was appointed a trustee of the University of Michigan. In 1837 Judge Kingsley became a member of the lower house of the state legislature and in 1838, 1839 and 1842 was a member of the upper house or senate. In 1850 he was a member of the constitutional convention, and in 1852 was elected a regent of the University at Ann Arbor. Prior to that year the regents of the University of Michigan had been appointed but in that year it was provided that the regents should be chosen by election. Judge Kingsley also became the second mayor of Ann Arbor. A writer, who had been well acquainted with Judge Kingsley during his life time, thus speaks of him: "Judge Kingsley was among the first practicing lawyers in Washtenaw county. He beheld the judiciary in its infancy as a territorial court, under the administration.of Judge Samuel Dexter, and witnessed its rise and progress through its various changes and graduations until it had assumed a name and character inferior to none in this vast and mighty Union. In all these courts, from that of justice of the peace to the supreme court he, as a member of the bar, played his part and played it well. His professional career was always hondrable, just 136 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY and manly." In 1836 Robert S. Wilson was elected to succeed Judge Kingsley. Judge Wilson served one term and was succeeded, in 1840, by Judge George Sedgwick. In 1844 Samuel P. Fuller was elected probate judge but died before the expiration of his term of office, and Elias M. Skinner was appointed to serve the unexpired term. Churchill H. Van Cleve was elected in 1848, Chauncy Joslyn in 1852. Judge Joslyn became circuit judge in 1882. In 1856 B. F. Granger was elected to succeed Judge Joslyn. In 1860 Thomas Winde succeeded Judge Granger. Hiram J. Beakes was elected probate judge in 1864 and reelected to the same office in 1868. He was followed, in 1872, by Noah W. Cheever who served one term. In 1876 Wm. D. Harriman was elected to the office and 1880 and 1884 was re-elected. J. Willard Babbitt succeeded Judge Harriman by election in 1888 and served two terms. H. Wirt Newkirk was elected in 1896 and served one term, being succeeded by Willis L. Watkins, who had been elected in 1900. Emery E. Leland was first elected in 1904 to succeed Judge Watkins and served until 1908 when William Murray was elected. Judge Murray served one term and in 1912 Judge Leland was again elected. Judge Leland served the three following terms having been re-elected in 1916 and 1920. The present incumbent, Judge Jay Gould Pray was elected to succeed Judge Leland in 1924. COURT COMMISSIONERS The legislature was authorized by the constitution of 1850 to provide for the "election of one or more persons in each organized county, who may be vested with the judicial powers not exceeding those of a circuit judge at chambers." For many years there were two court commissioners for Washtenaw county but at present there is only one incumbent. DISTRICT COURTS The court denominated the district court of the county of Washtenaw was organized under the act of the legislature. Benjamin F. H. Witherell, who in 1827 was the first prosecuting attorney of the county, was'appointed judge. The first term was held in April, 1843, and the last session of that court was held in March, 1846, when the court was abolished by the legislature. Judge Witherell, in 1857, became a member of the supreme court, succeeding, by appointment, Judge Douglas. JUSTICE'S COURTS Justices of the peace, under the act of 1805, were given cognizance of all claims and penalties not exceeding twenty dollars, and the manner of proceeding was by warrant to bring the defendant at once before the justice. Appeal to the district court was permitted and when that court was abolished, justices were given jurisdiction to try, by consent of parties, all cases of civil nature wherein the demand did not exceed one hundred dollars. Appeal to the county courts was permitted upon their establishment in 1815. During territorial times, justices of the peace were appointed by the governor; the first constitution of the state provided, however, for their election for a period of four years. Each township and city HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 137 was entitled to four justices of the peace, with no salary, being paid by a system of fees. They had original jurisdiction in all civil actions wherein the debt or damages did not exceed one hundred dollars and concurrent jurisdiction in all civil actions upon contract, express or implied, wherein the debt or damages did not exceed three hundred dollars; but they did not have cognizance of real actions, actions for disturbance of right of way or other easement, for libel or slander, malicious prosecutions, against administrators and executors as such, nor where title to real estate came into question. Their jurisdiction on criminal actions was limited to cases of simple larceny, assault and battery, wilful destroying and injuring of landmarks, simple trespass on lands and cutting of timber, wilful damage to cattle, horses and personal property not exceeding the amount of twenty-five dollars, and all offenses punishable by fine not exceeding one hundred dollars, or imprisonment in the county jail not exceeding three months, or both such fine and imprisonment. For the exercise of jurisdiction they were vested with the ordinary powers resident in courts of record, except setting aside a verdict and arresting judgment thereon. All cases on which judgment had been given might be removed to the circuit court by either party. Anything written concerning the bench and bar of Washtenaw county would be incomplete were Judge Thomas M. Cooley not mentioned. Judge Cooley was born in 1824 in Attica, New York, being one of a family of fifteen children. His father was a Massachusetts farmer before removing to New York state and Thomas, the son, who afterwards became known as the foremost authority on American constitutional law, was early thrown upon his own resources and the story of his early life is one of struggle and poverty. By hard manual labor, only, he acquired the means for attaining his education. He attended the common schools until he had reached the age of fourteen, then for four years attended private schools. In 1840 he obtained a school which he taught for four months. In 1841 and 1842 he continued his teaching, and, at odd moments, studied law, beginning before he was nineteen as he felt that, by nature, he was fitted for that profession. He read law for some time in the offices of Judge Strong at Palmyra, New York. In 1843 he came to Michigan on his way to Chicago, where he had intended to locate, but his means having dwindled to a very low point, he stopped at Adrian and entered the law offices of Tiffany & Beaman where he finished his preliminary reading of the law. He maintained himself during that time by working in the county clerk's office. Three years after his arrival at Adrian he was admitted to the bar. The success that Cooley longed and worked for came very slowly. He was restless and dissatisfied with his slow progress and left Adrian going to Tecumseh where he practiced for a short time, returning to Adrian in 1848. Here he assumed the editorship of a newspaper and at the same time practiced law as a member of the firm of Beaman, Bucher & Cooley and later as a member of the law firm of Cooley & Croswell. In 1850 Judge Cooley was elected court commissioner and recorder of Adrian. Still restless he removed to Toledo in 1852 but, shortly afterwards, once more returned to Adrian. In 1858 he was appointed official reporter of the supreme court of the state of Michigan 138 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY which position he held until 1864. In 1859 he accepted the appointment as Jay Professor of Law in the University of Michigan and removed to Ann Arbor. In 1864 he was elected to the supreme court, defeating Alpheus Felch. From 1864 to 1885 Judge Cooley was a member of the supreme court by successive elections and at different times presided over that court as chief justice. In 1873 the University of Michigan conferred upon him the degree of Doctor of Laws and in 1886 Harvard College conferred upon him the same degree. His judicial opinions are distinguished for vigor of thought and clearness of expression as well as for common sense; they show a clear comprehension of all the law and facts connected with the case. The Judge did not begin his career as a legal author until he had been on the bench for some years. To him may properly be assigned the honor of having written the most important legal treatise which has been produced in this country. Writing of this book Judge Seymour D. Thompson, of St. Louis, said: "If I were called upon to name the most important American legal treatise which has been written I suppose I should say 'Kent's Commentaries'; if I were put on oath I am afraid I would have to say 'Cooley's Constitutional Limitations.' I believe it has done more to educate the legal profession in this country in a knowledge of the principles of the government under which we live than any other work used by them." The Judge's literary work has not been confined to the writing of law books and law articles and he never wrote a more popular or fascinating book than "Michigan, a History of Government." He was in great demand over the country to deliver addresses, especially before bar associations and historical societies. In 1886 he was appointed receiver of that part of the Wabash railway east of the Mississippi river. He continued as receiver until his selection as inter-state commerce commissioner in 1887. In 1894 Judge Cooley gave up all his professional pursuits and retired to private life. In 1846, the year that had witnessed the beginning of his active connection with the legal profession, he married Miss Elizabeth Horton, a daughter of David Horton by whom he had six children. Mrs. Cooley died in 1890. Judge Cooley survived her but a few years, his death occuring September 12, 1898. CHAPTER XI PHYSICIANS AND HEALTH AS the modern means of transportation and communication, with its steam propelled trains and boats, its electric cars, its automobiles and its telephones and radios, differs from the means of transportation and communication in the early days, so differs the means of preserving human life and health in modern Washtenaw when compared with the means and facilities possessed by the brave and unselfish pioneer doctors. The trials, discouragements, difficulties and dangers which those old medical heroes were compelled to undergo can scarcely be comprehended in these days of advanced civilization. The inhabitants of the villages of the county being too few to furnish sufficient support, the surrounding country for miles in every direction must be traversed by the overworked and underpaid doctor. Nor were the dangers incident to long country trips insignificant; for with angry rivers to ford and primeval forests to traverse where, oftentimes, the only indication of a pathway through the woods would be the "blazes" on trees, in addition to which the liability of losing one's way, and the possibility of a personal contact with wild beasts ever forced itself upon the mind, the doctor had anything but an easy life. The pecuniary return also for such labor was meager and uncertain, many of the accounts in those days being paid by orders on the country stores. Naturally the prevalent diseases during the early days of the settlement of Washtenaw county were associated with the tillage of virgin soil and those connected with the miasma and exhaltations from swamps and marshes. These diseases which owe their origin to the humidity of the atmosphere in connection with sudden change of temperature, so common in Michigan, were also prevalent in the earlier days and the various forms of malarial fever, from the quaking ague or intermittent, through the intermittent, gastric or bilious, to the deadly pernicious fever or congestive chill, were prominent diseases of those days. The pulmonary affections, including pneumonias, pleurisies, bronchial diseases and consumption, follow in smaller proportion. Rheumatism, typhoid fever and dysentery, with a scattering of other diseases, were also observed. The principal surgery at that time included broken limbs, gun-shot wounds and injuries incurred in the primitive sawmills. Washtenaw county has suffered at times from epidemics of minor diseases but none of these have been marked by great mortality. The health officers have always been persistent in the efforts to bring about improved sanitary conditions in the way of securing better drinking water, better sewerage, stopping the sale of food that was found to be unwholesome or adulterated. The medical progress in the city of Ann Arbor during the past twenty-five or thirty years cannot be separated from the medical progress of the world. Washtenaw members of the medical profession have always been progressive and early recognized the necessity of co-operation for the betterment of the profession. Societies were 140 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY formed with this end in view. The history of these is best told by Dr. William F. Breakey in a paper read by him, in part as follows: "The present society (The Washtenaw County Medical Society) had its inception in a call for a meeting of the physicians of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, issued about the middle of June, 1866, or, perhaps I had better say, reorganized, as this was not the first medical society in the county. Indeed Washtenaw was the first county in the state to establish a county society. The territorial society organized in 1819 had the authority, conferred by the territorial government, to grant and revoke licenses to practice medicine and to determine the qualifications of candidates for practice, and also fitness of medical students to enter upon the study of medicine. The territorial society likewise granted to licensed physicians in any county, on application, the right to form a local society. Thus, June 12, 1827, permission was granted Drs. Cyril Nichols, Rufus Pomeroy, William Kittredge and Daniel Low to form a Washtenaw county medical society. I have an old time-worn folio paper given me after graduation in 1859 by Doctor Denton who held the chair of theory and practice of medicine and pathology in the University from 1850 to 1860. "It is entitled 'Medical Ethics,' compiled and abridged by the Ann Arbor Association of Physicians from the code adopted by the National Medican Convention in 1847 held in Philadelphia. The circular is made up of abstracts and quotations from the code of ethics followed by a tariff of pecuniary acknowledgments adopted by the association. This paper bears no date but it was evidently published between 1847 and 1851 as an item in the tariff reads: 'Visits in the country after dark, or in the village after bed-time, double.' Ann Arbor ceased being a village and became, by incorporation, a city in 1851. Just when this association was organized, or whether by the doctors authorized in 1827, I am unable to learn, nor when it died or the causes which led to its untimely end. I have been unable to find any record of its transactions. Its purpose to maintain rational medicine and ethic principles, and to require some entrance qualifications of medical students, is evident from the paper quoted. It is a fair inference that it left some latent seed which germinated in the conception of the present society. "The constitution of the existing society says: 'Article II-The object of this society shall be the advancement of professional character and medical knowledge, and the elevation of and encouragement of zeal, emulation and friendly intercourse among the members of the profession. Article IV-It shall be considered a dereliction of duty for any member of this society to admit into his office as a student of medicine, any person who shall not first present a certificate of qualification as provided in Article VI. Article IX-The code of medical ethics of the American Medical Association shall be adopted by this society. Two classes of members were provided for-active and honorary. Among its charter members were Dr. Alonzo Palmer (its first president), Dr. Abram Sager, Dr. Albert B. Prescott, Dr. Henry S. Cheever, Dr. William Lewitt and Dr. William F. Breakey, of Ann Arbor; and Dr. Francis M. Oakley, Dr. Edward Batwell and Dr. John W. Babbitt of Ypsilanti. These were followed within a year by many others. In its HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 141 list of members was to be found the name of nearly every regular and reputable physician in the county, and of many of those within contiguous counties, while its honorary members included many prominent physicians and surgeons. The meetings of the society were held quarterly. No departure from this plan was formally authorized, but when Doctor Gibbs was president monthly meetings were held. The original plan was to hold two meetings in Ann Arbor-usually the winter and spring meetings-a June meeting in Ypsilanti and the fall meeting in some other part of the country. The society aimed to enlist the interest of all its members, particularly to bring into active relations and within reach of its influence, all practitioners of medicine. The proceedings of its meetings, while formal, were very democratic. All were doctors. No distinction existed other than is always spontaneously accorded to merit. The humblest, youngest and most modest were made to feel at home in the society, and encouraged to contribute to its work and welfare. The reading of several short papers, rather than long essays, was encouraged, thus giving opportunity for more of its members to contribute to the interests of the meetings. Numerous reports were made of cases in practice, with brief discussions in which all were invited to participate. Among the important subjects discussed by the society in its early years was that of criminal abortion. The action of the society, formulated in a resolution prepared by Doctor Sager, was referred to the state society with the recommendation that that body present it to the state legislature, and this expression was the means of securing immediate legislation. That the society had the courage of its convictions was shown by the fact that one of its members, against whom charges were being prepared, withdrew before they could be preferred, thus saving the member's expulsion. "He removed from the county but was subsequently repeatedly arrested, charged with the same crime and though he several times escaped conviction, he finally served a term in the state prison. The society secured the analysis of numerous much advertised proprietary medicines, and exposed their worthlessness. In this creditable work Dr. Silas H. Douglas, Dr. Albert B. Prescott and Dr. Preston B. Rose were chiefly active. Various scientific investigations-physiologic, pathologic, pharmacologic and therapeutic-were undertaken and many valuable papers and important contributions to medical literature of the time were presented. Among them, as samples, were 'Diseases of the Cord and Placenta'; 'Case of Simultaneous Intra and Extrauterine Pregnancy'; 'Opthalmia Neoratorium'; 'Case of Delivery by Caesarean Section'-one he found the first reported in the state, by Dr. Abram Sager; papers on 'Consumption,' 'Climate,' 'Paralysis,' and others by Dr. Alonzo B. Palmer, and papers of much interest then on the climatology of New Mexico, Colorado and the higher altitudes of the Rocky Mountain range in that latitude, also in North Carolina, with discriminative observations of the class of cases benefited, and the need for care in gradual elevations by Dr. Henry S. Cheever, studied when trying to arrest his own tuberculosis disease, which proved fatal. Doctor Oakley and Doctor Batwell contributed many interesting and valuable papers, practical and helpful to physicians, and both ingenious in mechanical devices for surgical ap 142 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY pliances, a qualification of much value at that time when instrument makers were not as numerous and near as now. Papers and addresses were also given by Drs. William Warren Greene, Alpheus Crosby, Samuel G. Armor, Frothingham, McLean, Sewell, Howell, Abel, Dunster and others. The more recent work and contributions of living members the limits of this paper do not afford space to even mention by titles. Among the practical things accomplished in the direction of securing better fees for public service was the adoption of a schedule of fees by the board of supervisors of 1874 for postmortem examinations and for coroner's inquests. A committee of the society, consisting of Doctor Webb, Dr. John Knapp and your historian, went before the board representing the importance of careful findings, the responsibility attached to such examinations, the testimony involving interests of property, personal liberty and life, in addition to risks of infection of operators, and presented a schedule of fees. The fees adopted by the board were fair and reasonable for the time, ranging from five dollars for ordinary inspection of cadaver with reference to testifying as to cause of death; ten dollars each for section of thorax or abdomen and examination of their viscera; fifteen dollars for section of skull and examination of brain; twenty dollars for examination of any two of these cavities; and twenty-five dollars for all of them. These fee bills for ordinary local inquests were quite generally kept in different parts of Michigan and other states, but unfortunately, after a few years, boards of supervisors-whose rules are not like the rules of the Medes and the Persians-declined to be bound by the rules of their official predecessors and they claimed as a reason for not adhering to the schedule of fees that in so many cases the doctors found it necessary to examine the contents of the chest, abdomen and skull, and did not always find the cause of death then, but charged the whole schedule of fees. It is not improbable that there was some ground for the action of the board. The society has had various stages of prosperity and adversity-of enterprising zeal, and decline of energy. Some earnest differences arose that divided its members in positive opposition at the time and enlisted the sympathies of the profession at large and furnished the laity opportunity to ask: 'Who shall decide when doctors disagree?' Time has removed most of the actors in the little drama, and in the dim retrospect the rememberance seems almost amusing in the side-lights cast during the lapse of many years. "No history of the society would be complete without mention of the break in its ranks on the introduction of homeopathy into the University. As it divided the faculty of the department of medicine and surgery and the members of the state society, it is not strange that the subject should have aroused as great interest in the home society as it did in the profession of the state and throughout the country. The secession of the members of the faculty and the formation by them of the Ann Arbor Academy of Medicine followed. The Academy was denied representation in the meetings of the American Medical Association at Buffalo the following year, through a protest from this society. Later the faculty was glad to make use of the attitude of this society, supported by the state medical society, to induce the regents to HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 143 relieve the department of medicine of many of the most obnoxious features of the relations at first established. The contention led to better feeling at the time, members on both sides no doubt failing to apprehend the real position of those differing and each claiming to be actuated by the highest regard for the good of the profession and the University. Like the shield in the fable the situation had two sides. Fortunately, members of the society were too wise not to recognize established facts and too sensible to permit such a situation to destroy the usefulness of the society and the controversy has long since been a closed incident. Many of its members have served their communities in public office with fidelity and credit. The work begun by these men has been continuously and successfully carried on by the present membership. Ann Arbor is exceptionally well supplied with hospitals for the care and treatment of patients. "The University Hospital building, with a capacity of eleven hundred beds, has been completed and occupied this year and is one of the finest and best equipped in the world. Another hospital of much note is St. Joseph's Sanitarium. This hospital was primarily projected by Bishop Kelly as an adjunct to the University of Michigan. "Thousands of sick and afflicted, of the state and nation, are annually attracted to this great medical center, to avail themselves of the skill and knowledge of medical experts trained in the University. Before the establishment of this hospital there was a common complaint caused by the lack of facilities for patients at the University hospital. To enable those seeking the skill of Michigan men to enjoy this privilege, in conjunction with the privacy that was equally desired, St. Joseph's Sanitarium was erected. At the request of Bishop Kelly three Sisters of Mercy, accompanied by Reverend Mother M. Agnes, undertook the establishment of a Sister's hospital in Ann Arbor on November 20, 1911, and a private house, still standing at the southwest corner of State and Kingsley streets, was altered and converted into a temporary hospital, serving in that capacity for nearly three years. A staff was organized consisting of the following doctors: Cyrenus Garritt Darling, Roy Bishop Canfield, Walter Robert Parker, Ira Deen Loree, Theophil Klingman, Robert Gordon MacKenzie, Mark Marshall, Charlmers J. Lyons and Charles Lee Washburne. "The staff has always been what is popularly denominated 'a controlled staff' consisting of the members mentioned and a visiting staff. To extend the range of its usefulness to doctor and patient, the privileges of the house are offered, whenever its crowded condition warrants, to any reputable practitioner, subject in all cases to the sanction of the hospital authorities and the rules of the hospital. "The need for larger accommodations rapidly manifested itself, and the present structure was opened on September 7, 1914. The cornerstone was laid on October 30, 1913, and the formal dedication was effected on October 4, 1914. The new St. Joseph Sanitarium is an imposing four-story, brick and stone building located on North Ingalls street at the end of Lawrence street. Its capacity is limited at the present time to one hundred beds." The new hospital of the University of Michigan, built on a hill side 144 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY overlooking the valley of the Huron river, is six stories above ground in front and nine full stories at the rear, with a possibility of adding three stories in the future. It was opened in July, 1925, at a total cost of $3,850,000, with a capacity of 700 beds, and, counting the old University hospital, and the old Homeopathic hospital, which was absorbed into the University hospital system in 1922 on the abandonment of the Homeopathic College as a separate department of the University, will furnish accommodations for 1,100 patients. It is provided with the most modern equipment, and nowhere else in the country is there a hospital comparable, serving the same educational needs. To show that it was needed for the University, it is but just to say that this great hospital was filled to its capacity within a month after its opening, and that the old hospital building nearby, adjoining the State Psychopathic ward, had to be retained in use for convalescent patients. In the new building there are twenty main wards, with as many sun parlors, eleven small operating rooms, and two amphitheaters with seating capacity of about two hundred. Ten elevators, together with a dozen dumb waiters, furnish communication from floor to floor, a great kitchen with smaller ones adjacent to the wards, and a staff of 800 persons, of whom about half that number are nurses, make up the operating force of an institution, complete in every detail, adequate to the needs of the people of Michigan and the medical students who are to become their future physicians, and of which the state may well be proud. Personal Sketches G. Frank Allmendinger, secretary and treasurer of the Michigan Milling Company, was born in Buffalo, New York, December 10, 1855. His grandfather, John Christian Allmendinger, was one of the pioneer residents of Ann Arbor, coming to this city from Germany in 1832. His son, Charles F., the father of G. Frank, was born in Wurtenburg, Germany, and was yet a boy when he came to America. He lived with his parents a short time in this city, leaving here to enter the wood and fuel business in Buffalo, New York, where he married Miss Fannie Dellenbaugh, of Swiss descent. G. Frank Allmendinger graduated from the University of Michigan with the degree of Civil Engineer in 1878, after which he took a one-year course for post-graduate students. In 1882 he associated himself with Robert K. Ailes in the milling business for which he proved to be admirably adapted. A year later a partnership was formed consisting of Mr. Allmendinger, Robert K. Ailes and Gottlieb Schneider of Delhi. Eighteen years later all of the milling properties were merged into one corporation, the Michigan Milling Company, of which Mr. Allmendinger is secretary and treasurer. He has proved himself an able business man and upright citizen. He was honored by election twice to the city council and served two terms on the county board of supervisors. He is a member of the Barton Hills Country Club, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce and has acted as a trustee of the Ann Arbor Congregational church for fifteen years. At the present time he is a member of the board of directors of the University School of Music and president of the Forest Hills Cemetery Company. Mr. Allmendinger holds an enviable place in the confidence and esteem of the people of Ann Arbor. In 1912 Mr. Allmendinger was united in marriage to Miss Pauline Potter of Fenton, Michigan. Guy G. Alway, M.D., 203 East Liberty street, Ann Arbor, was born in Luther, Michigan, September 25, 1887, the son of W. Harry and Ellen Elizabeth (Stinchcombe) Alway. His father, who was born in England in 1846, came to the United States with his parents when a small boy. He distinguished himself at the outbreak of the Civil war by running away from home to join the Union forces. He was wounded in action, but the injury was not severe and he rejoined the Federal army and fought until the close of the war. He became a mechanical engineer, and engaged in the extensive salt well operations at Manistee, Michigan. His death occurred in 1898. His wife was a member of the Genesee county branch of the Stinchcombe family. Guy G. Alway is a graduate of the Manistee high school class of 1905, the Central State Normal school class of 1908 and the University of Michigan medical college class of 1914, when he received his M. D. degree. He then entered the homeopathic department of the University hospital 146 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY to serve his interneship. This done, he began private practice at Whitmore Lake, Michigan. He had just established himself in the confidence and good will of that community when the entry of the United States into the World war made it imperative to answer his country's call for physicians. Giving up his office and profitable practice he entered the U. S. Medical Corps as a first lieutenant. He served thirteen months in France with the 310th Infantry of the Seventy-eighth Division, during which time he was often under fire while caring for wounded men. He is now adjutant of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. He has never married, but gives his care and counsel to his adopted son, Donald. Henry C. Anderson is a professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Michigan. He was born in Morganfield, Kentucky, December 4, 1872. His father, John Gerry Anderson, was also a native of Morganfield and was by profession, a farmer. He lived to be eighty-four years old and died in 1920. The mother, Sophia (Cromwell) Anderson, was born near Natural Bridge, Kentucky, and died in 1911 at the age of eighty-two. Mr. Anderson received his early education in the country schools of Kentucky. He attended the Morganfield Academy and later the University of Kentucky from which he was graduated a mechanical engineer in 1897. After his graduation he spent four years as assistant to the master mechanic of the Cincinnati & Southern Railway, with headquarters located at Chattanooga, Tennessee. In 1899 he came to Ann Arbor as an instructor in the University of Michigan. In 1903 he was made an assistant professor, later in 1910 a junior professor and in 1915 assumed his duties as a full professor in the engineering department of the University. In 1917 he was made head of the mechanical engineering department. His wife was Sara Graham Simrall, a native of Lexington, Kentucky. She passed away in 1920. There were three children. Henry Cromwell Anderson, the first son, was born in Ann Arbor and died in 1910 at the age of four years. The daughter, Ellen Harrison Anderson, was born in Ann Arbor eighteen years ago. She graduated from the Ann Arbor high school and is now a sophomore at Smith College. John Gerry Anderson, the younger son, is sixteen and is a senior in the Ann Arbor high school. Mr. Anderson is a Mason, is a member of the Sigma Chi, the Tau Beta Pi, and the Sigma Xi fraternities, and a member of the Michigan Union. He is a member of the Detroit Engineering Society, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the National Geographic Society. He also holds membership in the Detroit Athletic Club, the Pleasant Lake Club, the University Club, the Barton Hills Country Club, and the Rotary Club. Sam C. Andres is one of the prominent representatives of the plumbing business in Ann Arbor. He was born in Lima township, Washtenaw county, May 22, 1877. Gottlieb Andres, his father, was born in Germany in 1844. He came to this country in 1846 and spent his life farming in Lima and Dexter townships. His wife was HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 147 a native of Washtenaw county. She was born in 1844 and passed away in 1907 at the age of sixty-three years. Gottlieb Andres died in 1922. Sam Andres earned his first dollar, at a wage of ten cents a day, by handing pickets to men who were building a fence on his father's farm. Years later he came to Ann Arbor with his wife, and invested their first three years' savings, which amounted to about seven hundred and fifty dollars, in a plumbing business. Under his capable management the business has grown steadily in importance until at the present time his lowest inventory shows as eighteen thousand dollars. His wife is Minnie K. Andres, nee Barth. Their two children are Elmeda and Charles. Almeda is nineteen years of age and a high school graduate. The boy, Charles, is in his first year at high school and is fourteen years old. Mr. Andres is well known through his connections with various fraternal orders of the city. He is a Mason, a member of the Knights of Pythias, of the Grotto, and is an Odd Fellow. Mr. Andres is also active in the Chamber of Commerce. Louis C. Andrews who is engaged in the real estate and insurance business with offices in the Huron Valley building and Savings Association building, was born at Dexter, Washtenaw county, January 1, 1892, a son of Charles J. and Alice (Costello) Andrews, both natives of Washtenaw county and now residents of Ann Arbor, where the father has been for twenty years chief of the Ann Arbor fire department. Louis C. was one year old when the family home was established in Ann Arbor and in this city he attended the public schools, graduating from the high school with the class of 1910. He then attended the University of Michigan three years when he entered the employ of the Hoover Steel Ball Company and for two years held the position of construction foreman. In 1917 he enlisted for service in the World war and in 1918 went overseas serving in Italy in the Ambulance Division. Upon receiving his discharge in May, 1919, he found employment with the Oakland Motor Company of Pontiac where for two years he was engaged in the purchasing department. In June, 1921, he established himself in the real estate and insurance business in Ann Arbor and is meeting with success. In 1917 he married Miss Belle Norris of Washtenaw county and they have three children: Louis C., Jr., James E. and Mary Lou. Mr. Andrews is a member of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce and the Ann Arbor Club, and he and his wife are communicants of the Catholic church. Joseph Lawrence Arnet, memorial craftsman, was born in Pilsen, Bohemia, in 1879. He came to the United States with his family in 1887. His father, Winzel Arnet, was born in Pilsen, Bohemia, died in Ypsilanti, Michigan, twenty-six years ago. His mother, now living in Ypsilanti, is a native of Germany and was born in 1858. Mr. Arnet has five brothers, who like himself, are all successful business men. At the time of his arrival in this country he could not speak English. Overcoming this obstacle and many others that presented themselves, he has won success in the profession which he follows. His wife, Martha Johanna Arnet, 148 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY nee Maegle, was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan, in 1881. Their son, Frederick, is sixteen years of age and a student in the Ann Arbor high school. Mr. Arnet is a past master of Fraternity Lodge of the local Masonic organization, a Shriner, a member of Arbeiter Verein, the Chamber of Commerce, the Exchange Club, and the Masonic Temple Association. Harry H. Atwell, consulting engineer, 215 East Huron street, Ann Arbor, was born December 14, 1877, on a farm in New York, the son of Henry H. and Julia M. (Hurd) Atwell, native New Yorkers. After finishing high school he entered the University of Michigan, where he graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Science in civil engineering in 1903. He then accepted a position with the United States Lake Survey, being advanced to the rank of junior engineer, where he remained until 1905. His next connection was with the University of Michigan, as instructor in the surveying department. In his fifteen years with the university he made several notable advances, and was assistant professor at the time he resigned to enter private practice of his profession. Several years ago he was made surveyor of Washtenaw county, and was re-elected from time to time because of the excellent service he has rendered the community. He is also a member of the Board of Public Works. In addition to these duties he enjoys a profitable practice as a consulting engineer. He is a Mason, belonging to all branches of this order in Ann Arbor with the exception of the Grotto, and is generalissimo of the Ann Arbor Commandery at this time, and a director in the Chamber of Commerce. Other organizations in which he holds membership are: The American Association of Civil Engineers, the Michigan Union, the Exchange Club, Huron Hills Golf Club, and the Detroit Auto Club. He was married in 1904 to Clara Rohde, of Ann Arbor, who died, leaving two children, Gladys and Ralph. He remarried in 1919, his bride being Katherine A. Schaeberle, of Ann Arbor. Louis E. Ayres, prominent in engineering circles, is a member of the firm of Ayres, Lewis, Norris & May, civil engineers. Mr. Ayres was born in Port Austin, Michigan, March 13, 1886. He is the son of James S. Ayres who was born in Connecticut and was a lumberman, farmer, and interested in salt mining in northern Michigan. He died in 1923 at the age of eighty-three. The mother of Louis, Mrs. Sara (Evans) Ayres, a native of New York state, lives in Ann Arbor. Louis E. Ayres came to Ann Arbor in 1904. He attended the University of Michigan and was graduated from the department of civil engineering in 1908, after which he established himself in his business. He married Helen (Cromwell) who was born in Grand Rapids, and four children have come to bless the union: Seymour F., Elizabeth P., Margaret H., and Helen J. Mr. Ayres is prominent in engineering societies. He is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and a past president of the Detroit section of the society. He is also a member of the American Association of Engineers, the American Water Works Association, the Detroit Engineering Society, the Michigan HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 149 Engineering Society, and the- American Society of Testing Materials. Mr. Ayres also serves as a director of the Chamber of Commerce and of the Family Welfare Bureau. R. Ray Baker, newspaper man and writer, was born in Petoskey, Michigan, November 6, 1890. His father, Robert L. Baker, was born in Ontario, and died in 1918 at the age of fifty-eight. He served as city treasurer of Petoskey. His mother was Jennie (Seibert) Baker, also a native of Ontario. As soon as he had completed his education in the public schools of Petoskey, he went into newspaper work on the Petoskey Evening News, and later served as city editor for that paper for two years. In 1914 he became telegraph and state editor of the Lansing State Journal, and two years later in 1916, took the position of telegraph editor on the Grand Rapids Press. In 1923 he came to Ann Arbor to fill the position of managing editor of the Ann Arbor Times News, and it is in this capacity that he now efficiently serves. Mr. Baker is a writer of short stories and a number of them have appeared in various magazines, such as St. Nicholas and others. His wife was before her marriage, Miss Myrtle L. Miller of Grand Rapids. H. D. Barss, A.B., M.D. Devoting his talents and skill chiefly to the practice of surgery, Doctor Barss has assumed a place of importance in the medical world. From 1904 to 1908 he attended the University of Rochester receiving the degree of A.B. During the years 1908 and 1910, he attended the Rochester Theological Seminary. With this cultural background he entered the University of Michigan for his medical work, and was graduated from that institution with his degree, in 1914. After a service of one year as an interne in the university hospital, he was made an instructor in the department of surgery, and from 1915 until 1918 he served the university in that capacity. He then moved to Ypsilanti where he began his practice which is limited to the practice of surgery. Doctor Barss was born in British Columbia, August 17, 1886. His father, Walter Barss, was born in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, and was a Baptist minister. He died in 1891 at the age of thirty-one. His wife, Mary (Phillips) Barss was a native of Rochester, New York. Doctor Barss married Gena Lawler of Rochester, New York. Mrs. Barss has the Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Rochester. They have two children, Barbara L., who is ten years of age, and William A., who is seven. Doctor Barss is a Mason, a member of Alpha Delta Phi, a member of the American Medical Association, the Michigan State Medical Society, the Washtenaw County Medical Society, the Rotary Club, the Washtenaw Country Club, and serves as a director of the Ypsilanti Board of Commerce. He became a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (1925), and president of the Washtenaw County Medical Society (1926). Junius E. Beal, one of Ann Arbor's most respected citizens, has been of unmeasurable service to the community. He was born in Port Huron, Michigan, February 23, 1860. His father, James E. Field, was born in Livingston county, Michigan, and died in 1895. 150 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY The mother, Loretta (Beal) Field, also a native of Livingston county, died at the age of twenty-one, one year after the birth of Junius Beal. After the death of his mother, he was adopted by his uncle, Rice A. Beal, who was born in New York state. Rice Beal was interested in the printing and publishing business, and during the Civil war, was in Dexter, Michigan, engaged in the milling, banking and mercantile business. His death came in 1883 at the age of sixty-one years. Junius E. Beal was graduated from the University of Michigan, in the literary college, in 1882. After leaving school his interests were in the printing and publishing business, and from 1883 until 1905 he was engaged in that business. During this period he gained distinction through the publication of Dr. Chase's Recipe Book, a publication which enjoyed the largest sale of any book up to that time with the exception of the book, "Uncle Tom's Cabin." Mr. Beal's activities have been varied. He has been a director in the Detroit Fire and Marine Insurance Company since 1896, and vice-president of the Farmers and Mechanics Bank since 1900. For a number of years he had charge of the local electric company and the gas company in Port Huron. He is one of the founders of the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti Railroad Company and served as the president of that company which was one of the earliest interurban lines in the country. Mr. Beal is a director in the Ypsilanti Paper Company. He has been distinguished for his unselfish devotion to the public service. He served on the ways and means committee in the legislature during 1905 and during the war he was of service to Washtenaw county as fuel commissioner, holding this post from 1918 in February until March, 1919. He was on the public domain commission of Michigan for ten years and served on the local school board for twenty-one years previous to 1907. He is serving his third eight-year term as regent of the University of Michigan. Mr. Beal has always taken an active interest in church work. He is the president of the board of trustees of the Methodist church in Ann Arbor, and is a member of the board of the Methodist Old People's Home, at Chelsea, Michigan, which is now constructing a new sixty thousand dollar addition. During his college years he was editor of the University Chronicle, and a member of the Acacia and Beta Theta Pi fraternities. Mr. Beal is a member of all Masonic orders, a member of the Detroit University Club, of the Ann Arbor Club, the Barton Hills Country Club, the Huron Hills Golf Club, and is a trustee of the Forest Hills Cemetery Association. Mr. Beal was married to Miss Ella Travis, a native of Kalamazoo county. To this union two children were born. The son, Travis Beal, was born in Ann Arbor, and was a graduate of the literary department of the University of Michigan. During the late war he served as an ensign in the navy. He died in 1923 at the age of twenty-nine. The daughter, Loretta Beal, was born in Ann Arbor twenty-eight years ago and has her residence in this city. Hugh M. Beebe, M.D., is a native of Ohio, having been born in Sidney, July 24, 1883. He received his early education at Sidney HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 151 and graduated from the high school there. He entered the Ohio State University where he studied for two years, taking a Literary Arts course. In 1907 he completed his course in the University of Michigan, graduating as a Homeopathic Doctor of Medicine. After several years of successful practice, Doctor Beebe became a professor in surgery in the Homeopathic Medical School at the University of Michigan in 1914, and continued in this capacity until 1922. During the World war he served in the army as a lieutenant in the Medical Corps. Two promotions were earned, first a captaincy and later he was made major. His service in France continued for one year. At the close of the war Doctor Beebe returned to his work at the university. His work has brought him to the position of director of the homeopathic ward in the university hospital with the rank of full professor, at which work he is now capably serving. Doctor Beebe is well known not only because of his brilliant professional work, but through his association in numerous fraternal and social organizations. He is a Mason, an Elk, and a member of the Exchange Club. He also holds membership in the Barton Hills Country Club and the Ann Arbor Country Club. On June 10, 1909, Doctor Beebe married Miss Ruth Pearson of Troy, Ohio. There are two children, a boy and a girl, Pearson, age fourteen, and Betty Jane, age nine. William Blair, M.D., prominent surgeon of Ann Arbor, was born in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, November 13, 1869, a son of Andrew and Mary (Stewart) Blair, both natives of Pennsylvania. The father was an official of the Cumberland Valley Railroad and died in 1909. The mother still resides in Pennsylvania. Doctor Blair came to Ann Arbor in September, 1887, to attend high school. After his graduation he entered the University of Michigan and pursued a literary course one year, after which he entered the medical school from which he graduated in 1893. During that year and 1894 he assisted Dr. W. J. Herdman in the treatment of nervous diseases in the hospital. He then went to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and began his practice. After two years there he returned to Ann Arbor where he has since practiced his profession. The Doctor enjoys a large general practice but most of his work is along the lines of surgery. In 1892 he married Miss Viola Williams, a native of Webster township, Washtenaw county, a daughter of the late Jeremiah D. Williams, a pioneer farmer, and one of the early legislators of this county. Doctor and Mrs. Blair have two children: Mrs. Hampton H. Irwin, of Detroit, who has two children, and William A. Blair, an architect of New York City. They were both graduates of the University of Michigan. Doctor Blair belongs to the city, state, county and national medical societies. He is a member of the University Club of Ann Arbor and is a member of the Presbyterian church. Charles L. Brooks, well known Ann Arbor realtor, maintains offices at 215 First National Bank building. He was born in Washtenaw county October 4, 1883. He had his early education at Manchester and graduated from the high school there. After a 152 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY two-year course in the University of Michigan, he entered the real estate business in Ann Arbor and has developed a substantial and prosperous business in that line. He is also a director in the Ann Arbor Asphalt Company. Interested in civic welfare, Mr. Brooks served for seven years as a ward superintendent, and takes an active part as a member of the real estate board, and is a member of the Chamber of Commerce. His connections with fraternal and social organizations are wide. He is a member of the Masonic order, an Elk, a member of the Knights of Pythias, and member of the Rotary and Ann Arbor Clubs. Mr. Brooks is the son of a farmer and fruit raiser, Alexander A. Brooks, a native of Connecticut. Mr. Brooks, Sr., came to Michigan at the age of twenty. His wife, Lydia J. (Engersoll) Brooks, was a native of New York state. He was always interested in the affairs of the county and served as road commissioner for three years. On October 19, 1911, Charles L. Brooks married Miss Laura P. Rauschenberger of Manchester, Michigan. To this union five children have been born, Pauline, Margaret, Charles, Jr., Barbara Jean, and Virginia May. Mr. Brooks resides at 829 Tappan street. Wolcott Hackley Butler was born in Allegan, Michigan, May 9, 1865. He is descended from good revolutionary stock-a direct ancestor, Ebenezer Butler, fought at the battle of Brandywine and endured the terrible privations of the winter at Valley Forge and he takes the family name of Wolcott through indirect descent from Oliver Wolcott, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. His mother's father, Flavius J. Littlejohn, was one of the early settlers of Allegan and one of its most prominent citizens. He was a member of the State Legislature for four years; a member of the Senate in 1845 and 1846, being president pro-tem of that body in the latter year. He was candidate for governor and for ten years beginning in 1858 he was circuit judge, having for his district twenty counties on the west side of Michigan. In his younger years as a geologist and surveyor, his explorations in the then wilderness of Michigan were widely extended and the knowledge acquired concerning the habits, history and tribal customs of the Indians then inhabiting both peninsulas of the state were later incorporated in a book entitled "Legends of Michigan and the Old Northwest", a valuable contribution to our knowledge of the American Indian. His father, Augustus S. Butler, came to Allegan as a young man and founded there the first bank. He took a prominent part in the political as well as the business interests of the village, being a delegate to the Democratic national convention which nominated Horace Greeley. At the early age of thirty-seven, he was killed while traveling, leaving a widow, Cornelia E. (nee Littlejohn) and two sons, Wolcott H. and Augustus S. Wolcott H. Butler was graduated from the Allegan high school and the literary and law departments of the University of Michigan. He was admitted to the bar and began the practice of law in Ann Arbor in the fall of 1892. In 1894 he purchased a half interest in the real HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 153 estate and insurance agency of the late James R. Bach and three years later purchased Mr. Bach's interest. From this beginning he has built up one of the largest insurance agencies in the county and in the last few years has confined himself almost entirely to the business of general insurance, writing all forms of insurance but life. He has been actively interested in the civic welfare of the city. He is a member of the board of directors of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce and has served as its president for two years. He was one of the founders of the Chamber of Commerce Building Association, is a member of its board of directors and has served as president for four years. He is a director of the Ann Arbor Building and Loan Association. He is a member of the board of park commissioners of the city of Ann Arbor. He was a member of the centennial commission formed to provide for a proper celebration of the one hundredth anniversary of the founding of Ann Arbor and was especially active in staging the centennial dinner which was one of the chief features of that celebration. During the World war he was a member both of the war board for the county of Washtenaw and the legal advisory board. He has always been greatly interested in boys' work. lie was actively interested in the organization of the first Boy Scout organization in 1915 and was vice-president of the first Ann Arbor Council Boy Scouts of America and has served as president of the council for the past three years. He is also a member of Washtenaw Council, the county organization. He is a member of the Theta Delta Chi Fraternity and has served as president of its local charge association for twenty-eight years, during which time he has not only acted as a sort of foster father to its undergraduate members but has been largely instrumental in raising the funds to build them two Chapter houses, with an aggregate value of $150,000. He is a member of Otseningo Lodge I. O. O. F., of the Ann Arbor Rotary Club, serving as a director for two years, of the Michigan Union, and the Barton Hills Country Club. He is member of the various Masonic orders including Ann Arbor Commandery K. T. and Zal Gaz Grotto, and is a past master of Golden Rule Lodge F. and A. M. He is a charter member of Washtenaw Chapter Sons of the American Revolution and served as secretary for ten years, during which time he collected the data necessary to establish the correct site of the original "Ann's Arbor" from which the city of Ann Arbor takes its name and later as president of the Chamber of Commerce took action to see that this site was marked by a suitable tablet. He is a member of the Congregational Church and chairman of its board of trustees. He has spent some months of each year for the past twenty in travel and has visited all of the states in the Union, traveled extensively in Canada and made four trips abroad. His hobby is gardening and he spends whatever of leisure he has in work among his flowers. In 1894 he was married to Mable L. Lewis of Allegan. He has one son, Ronald A. Butler, who is a graduate of the Ann Arbor high school and the literary 154 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY and law departments of the University of Michigan, being a member of the Theta Delta Chi and Phi Alpha Delta Fraternities and the Honorary Fraternity of Phi Beta Kappa. Eleazer E. Calkins was born in South Lyons, Michigan, April 12, 1866, son of Elisha A. and Eleanor Pilcher (Arms) Calkins, both of whom are now deceased. Eleazer E. Calkins was graduated from the Pharmacy School at the University of Michigan in 1884 and for thirty-eight years was engaged in the drug business. He now gives his attention to real estate investments. Mr. Calkins married Miss Allie Wilsey, of Ann Arbor, and two children have been born to them. Mrs. Lois E. Ramsdell is a graduate of the University of Michigan and resides in Ann Arbor. Paul Sylvester was graduated from the School of Engineering at the University of Michigan and is now employed at his profession at Roanoke, Va. Mr. Calkins was for several years secretary and one year president of the U. S. Pharmaceutical Association. He is secretary and treasurer of the board of trustees of the First M. E. church of Ann Arbor and is a member of the Michigan Union, the Chamber of Commerce and the American Geographical Society. R. A. Campbell is rendering a fine piece of service to his community as mayor of Ann Arbor. In addition to his duties as head of the city government, he also serves as the treasurer of the University of Michigan. Mr. Campbell has had a valuable background of experience which makes him particularly adapted for the work which he is doing, for since 1893 he has been in offices dealing with public finance. He was graduated from the University of Toronto, a pharmacist, in 1879, and was in that profession until 1893. In that year he went to Lansing, where he worked in the office of the auditor general until 1903. He then went to the state treasurer's office, where he was employed until 1909. The two years following he spent in the state banking department, and in 1911 came to Ann Arbor and became the treasurer of the University of Michigan. In the last election he was made mayor of Ann Arbor. Mr. Campbell is a native of Canada. He was born in Madoc, July 2, 1866. His father, William Campbell, was born in Scotland and came to America at the age of thirty-two and to the United States in 1877. He was a practicing physician in Lansing up until the time of his death, which came in 1891, at the age of eighty-nine. His mother, Caroline (Cooper) Campbell, was born in Madoc, Canada. She died in 1890 at the age of seventy-six. Mr. Campbell married Miss Louise Schoolcraft, of Port Huron, Michigan. They have one son, William Campbell, who is twenty-seven years of age. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan and now operates a large farm near Lansing, Michigan. Mr. Campbell is a member of the Masons, of the Rotary club, the Chamber of Commerce, the Michigan Union, the Acacia and Delta Sigma Pi fraternity, the Mimes, the Symphonians, and is in full charge of the Michigan Band. Robert Clair Campbell, of Pittsfield township, was born August HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 155 25, 1870, in Ypsilanti, the son of William and Mary R. (Aulls) Campbell. William Campbell was born in Ayrshire, Scotland, December 21, 1829, and in 1842 accompanied his parents, Robert and Anna (Muir) Campbell, to Augusta township, Washtenaw county, where they settled on a farm. He was graduated from the state normal school at Ypsilanti in 1857 and became a school teacher. He was, for several years, principal of the St. Clair (Michigan) schools. His wife, who was Sarah M. Aulls, had attended the normal school with him and was a teacher at St. Clair. He visited his birthplace in 1861. In 1866 he became an associate of the Hon. J. Webster Childs in the organizing of the Farmers and Mechanics Trade Association. This body was formed as a result of the high prices of merchandise which had been purchased during the Civil war and which was, after the war, not worth its purchase price. Calico dropped from one dollar a yard to thirty cents after the establishment of the Farmers and Mechanics Trade Association. William Campbell continued his connection with the Association's store until in 1879, a period of twelve years, when the burning of the store gave him an opportunity to return to his farming. In 1881 he purchased the farm now owned by his son, R. C. Campbell. This farm is situated at the edge of the city limits of Ann Arbor and was purchased in 1840 by Dr. Benajah Ticknor, a retired naval surgeon, who erected the dwelling on the farm. This house is a splendid example of the cobble-stone type of construction in vogue at that period, and is in an excellent state of preservation. In 1843 an ell was added to the dwelling, L. B. Skinner, a carpenter who visited at the Campbell home in 1923, when he was ninety-six years old, having helped build this addition. William Campbell was an ardent Republican and served many years on the school boards of Pittsfield and Ypsilanti city. Mrs. Sarah (Aulls) Campbell died in 1859 and Mr. Campbell later married her sister, Mary R. Aulls, who became the mother of Robert Clair and Sarah Campbell. Clair was graduated from high school at Ann Arbor in 1890 and four years later received the degree of Bachelor of Science from the University of Michigan. After spending some time in hardwood lumbering operations in Wayne county he returned, in 1901, to his farm. In 1892 his father founded a herd of pure-bred Shorthorn cattle which have been in great demand as breeding stock in this section of the state. Mr. Campbell is also a grower of pure strains of cereals and is thoroughly modern in all of his farm methods. He married a school teacher who had been a classmate in high school, Carrie E. Read. They have three children, William Read, George R. and Mary A. Campbell. R. Bishop Canfield, M.D., is nationally known in medical circles for the brilliant work he has done in his specialty, the diseases of the ear, eye, nose and throat. Since 1905, Dr. Canfield has served the University of Michigan as professor in chief of otology and laryngology at the University Hospital. Dr. Canfield was born 156 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY at Lake Forest, Illinois, July 22, 1874, a son of Eli L. and Sarah Maria (Bishop) Canfield, the former a native of Geneseo, New York, while the mother was a native of Pontiac, Michigan, both being now deceased. Dr. Canfield received his early education in the grade and manual training schools of Chicago. He attended the Ann Arbor High School and from there entered the University of Michigan, graduating from that institution with the Bachelor of Arts degree in 1897 and with the degree of M.D. in 1899. For six months after he graduated he assisted the professor of ophthalmology and otology at the University. He then served an interneship of one year, from 1900 until 1901, at the Massachusetts Charitable Eye and Ear Infirmary. In 1903 he went to Germany and became chief of the clinic at Jansensche, Klinik and Poliklinik, at Berlin. The following year he became assistant surgeon at the Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital in New York City. During that period he also was attending laryngologist at the New York City Clinic for laryngeal tuberculosis. During the later part of 1904 and also in 1905 he was appointed professor of otology and laryngology, and in 1905 was appointed professor of otolaryngology at the University of Michigan and it is in-this line of work that the doctor now serves. Dr. Canfield contributed a worthy service during the World war. In 1917, with the commission of a major in the medical corps, he was made chief of the ear, nose and throat section of the Base Hospital at Camp Custer, where he served until ordered to the Neurological Surgical School at Rockefeller Institute, New York. He further served as chief of the surgical service, Base Hospital Seventy-six, A. E. F., and received his discharge from the army January 11, 1918. Dr. Canfield married Miss Leila Marchant Harlow, a native of Michigan, and they have a daughter, Barbara, aged twelve, attending the schools of Ann Arbor, in which city she was born. Dr. Canfield is a member of the Phi Rho Sigma, the Alpha Omega Alpha, and the Phi Beta Kappa fraternities. He is affiliated with the following medical societies: A Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, a member of the American Medical Society, the American Otological Society, American Laryngological Association, and Rhinological Society. He is a member of the Detroit Athletic Club. Dr. Canfield is known as a man of fine ideals, of sterling qualities and is one of the most valuable men of Ann Arbor and the state of Michigan. A. Ray Cole, well-known contractor, has been in the business since he was nineteen years of age. He has been prominent in fraternal and civic affairs in the city of Ann Arbor. Mr. Cole is a Mason, a member of the Elks, and of the Exchange Club. He has served as president of the board of public works for ten years, and is a member of the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Cole was born on a farm in Isabella county, Michigan, April 3, 1878. His father, Wallace W. Cole, was born in Lawrence county, New York state, in 1843 and was a farmer until his death in 1919. His mother HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 157 was Catherine A. (Luce) Cole, who passed away in the year 1917. Mr. Cole married Anna B. Girven, December 20, 1894. She was also a native of Isabella county. They have one child, Mrs. Bernice Braun. She is a resident of Ann Arbor where her husband is connected with the Home Radio Sales Company. Mortimer Elwyn Cooley, dean of the colleges of engineering and architecture, University of Michigan, is an educator and engineer of national prominence. He is a veteran engineer officer of the United States Navy, a graduate of the Naval Academy at Annapolis, and holds the honorary degrees of M.E., LL.D., Eng.D., and Sc. D. His life story is an interesting one, filled with inspiration for the young man who has the determination to apply himself diligently to his chosen work. The family line in this country runs back to one Benjamin Cooley, who came to Springfield, Massachusetts, soon after 1640. Benjamin was an ensign in the Indian wars and a selectman for over thirty years. Subsequent generations lived in Granville, Massachusetts, from which families scattered to Vermont, New York and the west. Judge Thomas M. Cooley's forbears moved to Attica, New York, and Dean Cooley's to Canandaigua just prior to 1800. Dean Cooley was born March 28, 1855, on a farm four miles west of Canandaigua, New York. He received his early education in the district school near his home and in the old Canandaigua Academy, a famous preparatory school in those days. A country school teacher when only seventeen years old, he had taught two winters when he was appointed one of twenty-five cadet engineers at the United States Naval Academy after a competitive examination in which seventy-five participated. Graduating from the Academy in 1878, he made his first cruise in the U. S. S. Quinnebaugh on the European station, visiting the principal ports of the Mediterranean sea. His second cruise was in the U. S. S. Alliance on the north Atlantic station. Next he served in the Bureau of Steam Engineering, Navy Department. While there he took his examinations and was promoted to assistant engineer. In the summer of 1881 he was ordered to the University of Michigan under an act of congress passed in 1879 which authorized the detail of engineer officers as professors of steam engineering and iron shipbuilding in reputable schools. Assistant Engineer Cooley was the second officer to be so detailed. His title at the University was Professor of Mechanical Engineering. After three years at the University, being ordered to hold himself in readiness for sea duty, the Navy Department, at the request of the Board of Regents, extended his detail another year. At the end of four years, being invited by the Regents to continue in the chair of mechanical engineering, he resigned from the Navy, his resignation taking effect December 31, 1885. From 1881 to the present time he has been professor of mechanical engineering at the University. In February, 1904, he was appointed dean of the department (now the College) of Engineering, which embraced architecture, after it was re-established. In 1895 he joined the 158 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Michigan Naval Brigade and was senior engineer officer until 1911. On the morning Admiral Sampson's report of the sinking of the Maine was published Professor Cooley volunteered by wire for duty in the Spanish-American war, being told later that he was the first man to offer his services. In addition to serving in that war as a member of the Michigan Naval Brigade he passed examinations and received a commission as chief engineer from the government. The Michigan Naval Brigade manned the U. S. S. Yosemite (formerly El Sud). They held the blockade off San Juan, Porto Rico, alone for three weeks and fought a battle June 28th against greatly superior odds for which they received double prize money, the only ship so honored during that war. When the naval brigade was discharged at the end of the war he was kept in service until the following February. During his last months in the navy he was attached to the League Island Navy Yard in charge of engineering construction. At the outbreak of the World war in 1914 he registered an offer of his services with the engineerin-chief of the navy and when the United States formally entered the conflict he asked to be assigned to a ship which would take him overseas. Because of his age he was rejected for sea duty and later was appointed educational director of the Students Army Training Corps for the Seventh District (Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan) with offices at the Lewis Institute in Chicago. He was in charge of educational activities in more than sixty colleges and universities. When Professor Cooley came to Michigan in 1881 there was but one other mechanical engineer in the state. Almost immediately there was a demand for his services outside the university. Always the work he has done has come to him without solicitation. Because of his duties to the university it had to be small in amount. Yet the record is impressive. First came special problems in heating and ventilation, in machine design, tests of engines, boilers and pumping machinery. Then came calls to serve as expert witness in court, including patent litigation, as appraiser of properties, as arbitrator in disputes. Starting in 1893 he served many years as consulting engineer for state institutions. Perhaps his most conspicuous service was as an appraiser of public utility properties in which he was a pioneer-the foremost as concerns railroads, telegraphs and telephones. The mechanical equipment of the Detroit street railroads in 1899 was the first. This was followed in 1900 by all the railroads, telegraphs, telephones, express and private car lines, plank roads and river improvements in Michigan, the work being done for the State Tax Commission at the instigation of Governor Pingree. The appraisal disclosed property values exceeding $240,000,000. It led to a change in the tax laws for public utility properties from a specific to an ad valorem basis. The assessments which followed and litigation resulting therefrom made other appraisals necessary. When the law was finally established by the U. S. Supreme Court in 1905 there were returned to the state treasury some thirteen million dollars in HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 159 back taxes. Professor Cooley's appraisal work in Michigan led to calls from other states, from municipalities, from corporations, and in two instances from foreign countries. The reproduction cost of the properties he has appraised exceeds two billion dollars in not less than three-quarters of which he has been employed by the public. His task has been to ascertain the cost of reproducing the properties as of various dates and to determine the condition in which they were being maintained. These are two of the important factors in values the fixing of which was the work of others. Dean Cooley was a member of the engineering commission of the Chicago Exposition in 1893; of the commission on awards, PanAmerican Exposition, Buffalo, 1901; of the advisory council of the joint commission on postal service in 1920; and from 1905 until 1912 was chairman of the Block Signal and Train Control Board of the Interstate Commerce Commission. He has been president of the Michigan Engineering Society, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Society for the Promotion of Engineering Education, and of the Federated American Engineering Societies (now American Engineering Council). He is also a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, of which he was a director in 1914-16; a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, of which he was a vice-president in 1898; the American Institute of Consulting Engineers; the Society of Naval Engineers; the Franklin Institute; the Detroit Engineering Society, and the American Electric Railway Association. He holds the honorary degree of Mechanical Engineer from the University of Michigan, 1885; Doctor of Laws from Michigan Agricultural College, 1907; Doctor of Engineering from the University of Nebraska, 1911; and Doctor of Science from Armour Institute, 1893. Dean Cooley has declined a number of calls to other institutions including a presidency. He has also declined attractive opportunities in the commercial world. He was president of the Ann Arbor city council for two terms, 1900-1901, and declined the nomination for mayor. Born and bred a Democrat of the old school he accepted the nomination for United States senator in 1924 realizing that there was not a chance of election but impelled to make the race through a desire to stimulate the engineering profession to a sense of its duty in public matters and to bring home to the public the fact that while many of the great problems of this country today are engineering in character there was not and has never been an engineer in the congress who went there as an engineer. In his campaign he traversed every county in Michigan and spoke between four and five hundred times. On Christmas day, 1879, he was married to Carolyn E. Moseley, of Fairport, New York. Their first child, Lucy Alliance, who is now the wife of William O. Houston, was born in 1880. Mr. and Mrs. Houston now live in Jackson, Michigan, where Mr. Houston, a graduate of the civil engineering department of the University of Michigan in 1904, is employed as division engineer of the Mich 160 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY igan Central Railway. They have two children: Margaret Ruth, a sophomore in Mt. Holyoke College, and James Cooley, nicknamed Jack, a senior in high school. Dean and Mrs. Cooley's second child, Hollis Moseley, was born in August, 1883, and is now a commander in the United States Navy, having graduated from the Naval Academy in 1906. He married Edloe Welbourn, of an old Virginia family. Commander and Mrs. Cooley have two children: Hollis Welbourn, who is now twelve years old and a student in Haverford Preparatory School, and Virginia, a baby girl. The third child of Dean and Mrs. Cooley is Anna Elizabeth, now the wife of Burton A. Howe, A.B., a graduate of Colgate University and the senior member of the firm of Howe, Snow & Bertles, investment securities, with offices in New York, Chicago, Detroit and Grand Rapids. Mrs. Howe was born in 1885 and holds an A.B. degree from Elmira College. She is the mother of four children: Burton Alonzo, Jr., aged twelve; Elizabeth, Mortimer Cooley, and James. The youngest child of Dean and Mrs. Cooley is Margaret Achsah, now Mrs. Harvey F. Cornwell. Mr. Cornwell was graduated from the University of Michigan in 1912 with an A.B. degree, and is now in charge of salesmen of the Federal Bond and Mortgage Company, Detroit. They have one child, Harvey Francis, Jr., aged five. Frank I. Cornwell, one of the representative business men of Ann Arbor, was born in this city, January 9, 1876. He is a scion of one of the pioneer families of the county. His father, Henry A. Cornwell, was a pioneer manufacturer in the paper and wood pulp business in Washtenaw county. His life of usefulness came to an end in 1900. His wife, Phoebe (McArthur) Cornwell passed away in 1910. Mr. Cornwell obtained his education at the Ann Arbor high school and at Kenyon College, located at Gambier, Ohio. Having finished his education he began work in his father's business, in which he continued for ten years. At the end of this period he entered the coal business and has been very successful. He was wedded to Miss Laura Jean Jones, and they have one daughter, Phoebe Jean, a graduate from the Martha Washington School in 1921. Mr. Cornwell is a Mason, a member of Psi Upsilon Fraternity, the Elks, the Chamber of Commerce, the Barton Hills Country Club, and the Ann Arbor Golf Club. John Joseph Cox, well and favorably known as a consulting engineer was born in Edon, Ohio, September 6, 1882, a son of George W. and Isabel (Ruff) Cox, the former of Scotch-Irish origin and the latter of German descent. John J. Cox attended the public schools and graduated from the Pioneer (Ohio) high school. He later attended Hiram College and received the degrees of B. S. and C. E. from Case School of Applied Science at Cleveland, Ohio. We give herewith a brief record of Mr. Cox as a young man applying himself in the pursuit of knowledge, later as the full fledged civil engineer and in the meantime as an instructor imparting to others the knowledge he had acquired. From February to June, HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 161 1902, he was in the employ of the Whitacre Fireproof Roofing Company in Waynesburg, Ohio; June-August, 1902, with the National Fireproof Roofing Company; August-October, 1902, Reeves Boiler Works; 1902-05, Stark Electric Railroad Company, in construction and operation; 1905-06, student in Hiram College; JuneJuly, 1906, Painesville and Eastern Railroad; July-September, 1906, purchasing agent for Forest City Railroad; 1906-08, student in Case School of Applied Science at Cleveland, Ohio; July-September, 1907, chief engineer in charge of construction and design D. E. Weage, sewerage and drainage contractors at Coldwater, Michigan. In 1908 he engaged in private practice as consulting engineer for two years at Coldwater. Then as a member of the firm of John J. and William M. Cox, civil and electric engineers at Coldwater and Three Rivers; this firm later became Cox, Norton & Company, and still later Cox, Norton & Shaver, engineers for cities and towns, and drainage, highway and consulting engineers for contracting and manufacturing companies. He acted as city engineer for Coldwater, Three Rivers and Hillsdale, county surveyor for Branch county, having charge of highway work and drainage, 1908-13. April-September, 1910, he was connected with the state highway department of Michigan on design and construction and supervisor of roads and bridges and since then has been frequently called in a consulting capacity. During the years 1913-15 he was instructor in civil engineering, Assistant Professor of Engineering and Professor of Highway Engineering at the University of Michigan, also having in charge the testing of all material for roads and pavements for Michigan state highway department, July, 1919 -January, 1921, he was engineer and manager of the board of road commissioners of Washtenaw county. March, 1920-January, 1921, he was consulting engineer on F. A. Project No. 35, for Michigan state highway department; 1919-20, was secretary and later president of the state board of examiners for examination and registration of architects and surveyors; 1923 he was a president of National Council of State Boards of Engineering Examiners; 1924 he was chairman of the legislative committee of Michigan Independent Oil Men's Association. During the World war period he was instructor at the University of Michigan in R. 0. T. C. and S. A. T. C. At the present time he is acting as consulting engineer and is president of the Michigamme Oil Company with offices at 345 East Huron street, Ann Arbor. He is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, A. S. T. M., S. P. E. E., A. A. C., Michigan Engineers Society and secretary of the Michigan Association of Road Commissioners and Engineers. He is a Mason, a member of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Union, Exchange Club, Diamedians (Detroit) and in politics is a Republican. On July 28, 1909, he married Miss Augusta Whitmore and they have three children: Joseph Henry, Ruth Marium and John Joseph, Jr. Howard H. Cummings, M.D., physician and surgeon of Ann Arbor, comes from a family of educators. Olin Fiske Cummings 162 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY his father, was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Anson W. Cummings was at one time president of the University of South Carolina. After the Civil war, when private schools had reached the height of their popularity, he, with his father, started the Riverside Seminary at Wellsville, New York. His father also served as a professor at the University of South Carolina. He was married to Etta Bissell of Brockville, Ontario, Canada. He died in 1901 at the age of forty-seven years. Doctor Cummings is a native of New York state, and was born in Wellsville, June 7, 1885. A graduate of the Wellsville high school, he entered the University of Michigan and received his medical degree in 1910. He served an interneship at the Johns Hopkins Hospital and later returned to the University of Michigan, where he served as an instructor for six years. He then began a private practice in which he continues, specializing in the surgical treatment of women's diseases. He married Miss Lou Braisted of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and to this union two children have been born, Robert Howard, and Mary Lou. Doctor Cummings is a Mason, member of the Grotto, Blue Lodge, and Golden Rule Lodge. His affiliations with other organizations include membership in the Phi Chi Medical Fraternity, the Sigma Xi, the Michigan Trudeau Society, the state and county medical societies, the Alumni Association, obstetrical and gynecological department, the Ann Arbor Club, the Barton Hills Country Club, the Exchange Club and the Chamber of Commerce. He is vice-president of the executive committee of the Boy Scouts. The Doctor is a member of the staff of the St. Joseph, and Washtenaw private hospitals. Doctor Cummings is well and favorably known because of his sympathetic and capable service. Judge Darwin Z. Curtiss, municipal judge of Ypsilanti, has long been active in Michigan affairs. He is a native of Ohio, born in Huron county of that state, October 5, 1861. His parents were both natives of New York state. His father, Russell Curtiss, was born in Auburn, and was by occupation, a farmer. His death occurred in 1914 at the age of eighty-nine. The mother, Caroline Curtiss, died in 1903 when sixty-six years of age. Judge Curtiss married Jessie Keller of Tiffin, Ohio. There were no children. Judge Curtiss studied law for three years, after which he became publisher of daily newspapers in Saginaw, Marquette, and Battle Creek, Michigan. He later became resident manager of the American Press Association at Detroit. He has been conspicuous since for his public service. He was elected to the legislature and served from 1909 to 1911. For eight years he was a justice of the peace, located just out of the city of Ypsilanti. At the death of Judge Stadtmiller, he was appointed to fill out the unexpired term. He was then elected municipal judge by the voters of Ypsilanti. Judge Curtiss is a great lover of the beautiful in nature and of outdoor recreation. He is a grower of super-blooming gladiolas, and ships bulbs and flowers, in season, to all parts of the country. Judge Curtiss is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and holds the HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 163 Degree of Honor in that order. He is also a member of the Board of Commerce and is a Republican. William D. and Ivan N. Cuthbert, architect and engineer, 327 East Huron street, Ann Arbor, Michigan, are sons of William Francis and Euphemia M. (Oliphant) Cuthbert, natives of Canada, who are now residents of Ann Arbor. Their father, a former Baptist minister, was forced to seek a new calling because of the condition of his health and is now engaged in the general insurance business. William D. Cuthbert was born September 30, 1890, at Toronto, Canada. He graduated from high school at Essex, Ontario, Canada, and then entered the Hackley Manual Training School at Muskegon, Michigan. After completing an advanced course at this institution he went to Battle Creek to take charge of the wood shops in the.public schools of that city. He remained in this position two years and then entered the University of Michigan. When he graduated from the university with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Architecture he accepted a position in the office of Albert Kahn, architect, Detroit, where he was employed three years and then entered the employ of Smith, Hinchman & Grylls, architects and engineers of Detroit. For a portion of the period of the war he was employed as a civilian engineer in the United States army air service at aviation fields, a part of his work being in connection with the design of buildings for aviation requirements. Returning to Ann Arbor, he became an instructor in architectural design at the university, continuing in this capacity until 1919, when he and his brother Ivan established their firm of architect and engineer. He was married on June 8, 1923, to Mary McCormick, of Calumet, Michigan. He is a Mason, a member of the American Institute of Architects, the Michigan Society of Architects, the Huron Hills Golf Club, Detroit Automobile Club and the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. He attends the St. Andrew's Episcopal Church. Ivan N. Cuthbert, the other member of the firm, was born March 17, 1893, at Durham, Ontario, Canada, where his father was pastor of the Baptist church. After graduating from the Muskegon high and Hackley Manual Training School he entered the University of Michigan. In 1915 he received his degree of Bachelor of Electrical Engineering and in 1917 his degree of Master of Science in Engineering (Mechanical Department). He was the first holder of the Fellowship given the University of Michigan by the United States Radiator Corporation of Detroit for research work in heating, and it was in this branch he specialized for his Master's degree. He continued his research work in heating and ventilating with the above corporation after leaving the university and continued in their employ until he enlisted in the signal corps of the United States army during the World war. Because of his training he was later transferred to a special investigating committee for the Bureau of Aircraft located at and operating from the Detroit district office. In this capacity he made extensive investigating trips for the air service designing and compiling data on both the De Haviland four air 164 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY plane and the Liberty engine. One of the main works of the committee was the compiling and editing of its investigations on the De Haviland four manufacturing processes together with its original designs into what was called "The Aviators' Bible" by the fliers in France. After this committee work he organized the Plane Engineering Department of the Detroit district as assistant-plans engineer and later held the position of plane engineer when the armistice was signed. He held this position until the Detroit plane engineering work was transferred to Dayton, Ohio, and was then called on to organize the inventory and appraisal division of the Detroit district which was engaged in checking up the condition of the war materials occasioned by the cancellation of war contracts let by the Bureau of Aircraft. On obtaining his release from government service, he entered the office of Albert Kahn, architect, Detroit, as equipment engineer and later the offices of Smith, Hinchman & Grylls, architect and engineer, Detroit, as industrial engineer. Having founded with his brother the firm of Cuthbert & Cuthbert, architect and engineer, Ann Arbor, he returned to that city in 1921 to give his personal attention to the business of that firm. He is a member of the American Society of Heating and Ventilating Engineers and other scientific associations. His wife, Minnie Almeda (Libey) Cuthbert of Jackson, Michigan, was a graduate from the medical school (Training School for Nurses), of the University of Michigan in 1915. They have three children, Ellen Nairn, born April 16, 1918; Ivan Norman, Jr., born March 20, 1920, and Doris Almeda, born Sept. 18, 1921. Mr. Cuthbert's hobby is breeding chickens and he has a national reputation as a breeder of Silver Spangled Hamburgs. He has been connected with the poultry associations of Detroit and Ann Arbor as an officer for years. He is a member of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce; the Pomona Grange and the Ann Arbor Grange, and is one of the founders and the first and present president of Platt Community between Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti on the Packard road. Lee F. Dawson, with his brother, has been engaged in a business which was established by his father, Martin Dawson, and C. R. Huston in 1893. The father was a native of Ireland and was born November 20, 1863. He continued in the business until his death which occurred in 1915. Mary Fletcher married Martin Dawson in 1885. She was born in Ypsilanti in January, 1868, and is now a resident of that city. Lee F. Dawson is one of three children born to that union. He was born in Ypsilanti, October 2, 1886. His brother is Wesley Martin Dawson, and his sister is Mrs. H. M. Wild. Mr. Dawson attended the public schools and the high school in Ypsilanti. To complete his education, he attended the Cleary Business College. His wife is Edna (Gingerick) Dawson, who was born in Manchester, Indiana. The Dawsons have no children. Mr. Dawson is associated with his brother in the contracting business, beside his duties as a merchant. He is a Mason and HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 165 a member of the Chamber of Commerce. The Dawsons are widely and favorably known in Ypsilanti. Ray A. Dolph is a native of Ohio, having been born in Elmore, November 10, 1885. His father, Ellsworth Dolph, is a descendant of the famous French general, Bethazar De Wolf. The earliest ancestor settled in Middletown, Connecticut, in 1620, and from him the line of descent is complete and is contained in the De Wolf Family Histories and Works dealing with colonial times. Among the descendants is found Colonel Abda De Wolf in the Revolutionary army whose son Joseph shortened his name to D'olf then to D'olph and then Dolph. Thomas Joseph Dolph taught the Academy in Fort Ann, New York, and was quite prominent there. He had three sons, Orson, Obed and Chester. Obed Dolph is the branch from which Ray A. Dolph came. Ellsworth Dolph makes his home at Genoa, Ohio, and is interested in farming, stock buying, and the oil business. His wife, Adda (Canniff) Dolph is from pure English stock. Ray A., after graduating from the Genoa high school in 1903, attended Ohio Northern University at Ada, Ohio, studying commercial and law subjects. He left his home at the age of sixteen and worked at all sorts of occupations. He finally went to work for his uncle, W. H. Dolph, who was in the undertaking business at Blissfield, Michigan. Choosing this as his life work, he expended every effort to prepare himself for it, and at the age of twenty-one, passed the state examinations in Ohio and Michigan. His next step was to visit the larger cities and to work for the better funeral directors, using their ideas and methods as a background for a business of his own. In 1908 he came to Ann Arbor and bought out Oliver M. Martin, whose father was Ann Arbor's first undertaker. He is the originator of eighteen specialties for the use of undertakers. The Funeral Auto List Book is one of the most important of his productions. Mr. Dolph is ex-president of the Washtenaw Electric Company, president of the Super Realty Company, vice-president of the Ann Arbor Finance Company. He was married in 1909 to Miss Olive Grace Epker, of Toledo, Ohio. Their son, Charles Laurie Dolph, is the youngest member of the Chamber of Commerce of the United States. Mr. Dolph is a thirty-second degree Mason, a member of the Ann Arbor Commandry, Washtenaw Chapter No. 6, Moslem Temple Shrine 758, charter member of Ann Arbor Grotto No. 17, and the Consistory at Detroit. He is a member of the Odd Fellows, Michigan Sovereign and Co-ordinate Bodies, a member of Fraternity Lodge 262, Knights of Pythias No. 44, Eastern Star Lodge in Ohio, and the Michigan Union. Mr. Dolph is on the board of directors of the Ann Arbor branch Detroit Automobile Club and the National Auto Club, and organized the Ann Arbor branch. In addition to this, through his efforts and suggestions, the other branches of the Detroit Auto Club were started, using the Ann Arbor club as an example. He is also a member of the National and Michigan Funeral Director's Associations, past president of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce, member of the Ann Arbor Golf Club, the Ann Arbor Fair Associa 166 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY tion, and is a member of the board of trustees of Ann Arbor Building Association and served as fuel administrator for the state and Washtenaw county. He is also a member of the Ann Arbor Business Men's Club, Rotary and member of the board of trustees of the Methodist church. Mr. Dolph holds a certificate from the war board of the National Alumni Association for his patriotic services to the national cause during the war. He was a member of the war board, American National Red Cross, U. S. Liberty Loan Committee, U. S. War Savings Committee, United War Work Campaign, War Camp Community Service, Young Men's Christian Association, American Protective League, and auxiliary to the Department of Justice. Mr. Dolph was Major Ralph H. Durkee's right hand man during the stay of the S. A. T. C. in Ann Arbor; with the power of these two men there was nothing they could not accomplish if it was for interest of winning the war. Mr. Dolph holds an honorary badge as a souvenir from the Department of Justice for the work he has done. Mr. Dolph's life is an example for those who would be successful through application and hard work. M. J. Dunkel, president and general manager of the Chelsea Screw Company, came to Chelsea on December 5, 1910, to take charge of the automatic screw machine department of the Grant Wood Company. After one and one-half years in the Grant Wood plant Mr. Dunkel became a salesman and demonstrator for the makers of the Davenport automatic screw machines, and was employed by that concern until 1913. In that year he became associated with C. Lehman and Pauline L. Gerbach and the Chelsea Screw Company was organized with himself as president, Mr. Lehman as secretary-treasurer and Miss Girbach as vice-president. The company had an initial capital of nine thousand dollars and occupied the Mack building on North Main street. Success came rapidly. An April 11, 1916, the concern was reorganized with a capital of fifty thousand dollars in paid-up stock. Twenty men, four times as many as were employed when the company started operations, were then employed. Today the Chelsea Screw Company employs almost a hundred men in its big factory on South Main street. The company's buildings contain more than twentyfour thousand square feet of floor space; and more than one hundred and fifty machines are in operation almost all of each working day. From three to four carloads of brass rods and four cars of steel rods are used each month in the manufacture of a variety of screw machine products. Under Mr. Dunkle's able management an excellent record of consistent progress has been made by the company, which has never employed salesmen to dispose of its products. No labor troubles have ever been encountered, because modern equipment, satisfactory working conditions and humane treatment by the company have resulted in contented workmen. As an example of the interest taken by the company in the welfare of its employes, an electric oil sterilizer, which purifies all oil used in the plant, has been installed. Group insurance, premiums on HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 167 which are paid by the company, is carried on the employes; and all benefits accruing from this insurance is paid to the employe or his beneficiary. This insurance is entirely independent of outside compensation and is wholly voluntary on the part of the company. Many of the employes are insured for a total of two thousand five hundred dollars under the group plan. Approximately ninetyfive per cent of the output of screw machine products is used in the automobile industry and is made according to the specifications of the customer. Rigid inspection maintains a high standard of quality and the company, as a result, enjoys an excellent reputation. Officers of the Chelsea Screw Company now are Mr. Dunkel, president and manager; P. G. Schible, secretary-treasurer; Edward Vogel, vice-president, and John Kalmbach and Howard S. Holmes, directors. Mr. Dunkel is a mechanical genius and has invented and built many of the more complicated screw machines in use in the Chelsea plant. Born in Berks county, Pennsylvania, he has spent almost his entire life in the metal-working industry. Mrs. Dunkle was, before her marriage, Lillie Appleton. They have two children, Edith, a junior in high school, and Mahlon Conrad, who is in the seventh grade. John W. Dwyer, one of Ann Arbor's most distinguished attorneys, maintains offices at 508 First National Bank building. His father, Thomas Dwyer, was born in Ireland in 1830 and came to this country in 1844. Some years later, associated with John Fitzgerald and Lieutenant-Governor McDonald, he engaged in railroad building, taking sub-contracts on the Northwestern Railroad. Their first line extended up into the northern peninsula of Michigan. He was a resident of Escanaba, Michigan, until 1874, when he removed to Iowa. He settled on a farm in Cherokee county in that state, where he lived until his death in 1921 at the age of ninety-one years. He was married to Ellen Callahan who was also of Irish birth. It was to this marriage that John W. Dwyer was born on December 20, 1866, at Lisbon, Wisconsin. After his grade schooling he attended the business college and the normal school at Fremont, Nebraska, and later completed his preparation for teaching at the Iowa State Normal College at Cedar Falls, Iowa. He was engaged in teaching in the public schools for four years, and during the summer months of this period he studied law in the office of J. D. F. Smith at Cherokee, Iowa. In 1892 he graduated from the law department of the University of Michigan with the degree of Bachelor of Law and in that year was admitted to the bar. He earned his Master of Law degree in 1893. He was then offered a position teaching and for thirteen years was an instructor in the law department of the University of Michigan. It was during this period that he organized the summer law school. This branch of the department has developed until it is a very important factor in the school. He is also the author of several legal publications which were used in the various law schools, namely: "Cases Private International Law," "Cases Husband and Wife," and "Law and Procedure of U. S. 168 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Courts." Mr. Dwyer served the city of Ann Arbor as its attorney for six years. He is now engaged in the private practice of law. He married Alicia Hogan of Cherokee county, Iowa, in 1891, who was at that time a teacher in the public schools in that city. There are seven children to this union. Ellen A., is a graduate from St. Thomas high school and was the first nurse to graduate from St. Joseph Mercy Hospital of Ann Arbor. She is now Sister Mary Mark of the convent at Monroe, Michigan. Francis T. is a graduate of the St. Thomas high school and has the A. B. degree from the University of Michigan and the B. A. degree from Columbia University of Dubuque, Iowa. He volunteered for service in the World war and was ready to receive a commission as lieutenant when the armistice was signed. At the present time he is the assistant auditor of the Bell Telephone Company, at Omaha, Nebraska. The daughter, Mary Tresa, is deceased. Another son, J. Edgar, is an alderman. He also graduated from the St. Thomas high school and has an A. B. degree from the University of Michigan. He spent two years in France in the air service and is now pursuing a law course at the University of Michigan. The others of the family, the Misses Rose C., Anna L., and Mary E., are also graduates of the St. Thomas high school. Miss Anna is living at home, Miss Rose is the chief clerk in the traffic department of the Bell Telephone Company in Ann Arbor, and Miss Mary is the assistant cashier of that company. John W. Dwyer is a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Holy Name society and the Ann Arbor Lawyer's Club. To him must be given the credit for the revision of the city charter of Ann Arbor. Not only in this instance but in many others is the city indebted to him for his interest and usefulness in helping in the public work of his community. Oscar A. Eberbdch was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, August 9, 1881, a son of Ottmar and Catherine (Haller) Eberbach, and a grandson of Christian Eberbach, the founder of the business now being operated under the name of Eberbach & Son Company, Inc., of which the subject of this record is treasurer and general manager. Mr. Eberbach attended the public schools of Ann Arbor and in 1906 he received the degree of Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan. He then entered his father's store, becoming treasurer and general manager, a position which he holds at the present time. June 15, 1910, Mr. Eberbach married Miss Minerva Hall, of Dexter, Michigan, and they have a son, Robert. Mr. Eberbach is a member of the Rotary Club, the Michigan Union and the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Eberbach is well and favorably known and is maintaining the same high standards of business ethics that has marked the growth and progress of the business established by his worthy father and grandfather. Ottmar Eberbach, whose death occurred on January 15, 1921, had been one of the most prominent and influential men who ever lived in Ann Arbor. Mr. Eberbach was born in this city November 23, 1845. His father, Christian Eberbach, was born in HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 169 Stuttgart, Wurtemburg, Germany, in 1817, and when a young man of twenty-one came to the United States. After a voyage of sixty days on the ocean he landed at Philadelphia and immediately started for Ann Arbor, making the journey most of the way on foot. He secured employment in a drug store and in 1843, with Emanuel Mann, formed a partnership and opened up a drug store that was destined to become a landmark in this city. Christian Eberbach married Miss Margaret Laubengayer, a native of the same province of Germany as himself, who had come to Washtenaw county with her parents. Christian Eberbach was an early day Whig, later a Republican, a strong abolitionist and was elected mayor of Ann Arbor in 1868, and until his death in 1901 was one of the prominent business men of the city. Ottmar Eberbach received his early education in this city and at the age of sixteen entered the polytechnic school in Stuttgart, Germany, paying special attention to botany, chemistry and the natural sciences. On his return to Ann Arbor he entered his father's store and when his father's partner, Emanuel Mann, retired from business Ottmar entered into partnership with his father, the firm becoming Eberbach & Son. After entering into partnership with his father, Mr. Eberbach began the manufacture of scientific instruments which made the firm of Eberbach & Son known in all parts of the civilized world. Beginning in a modest way at first and specializing on laboratory equipment, this phase of the business expanded until it occupied the entire four-story building at the corner of Liberty street and Fourth avenue. Mr. Eberbach, in addition to his research in the field of chemistry and botany, made a special study of materia-medica and was one of the pioneers in the agitation for the regulation of the practice of pharmacy in Michigan which resulted in the passage of the pharmacy law in 1885. In recognition of his activities in securing the passage of this legislation and also of his scientific attainments, he was appointed to the state board of pharmacy by Governor Russell A. Alger. He retained this position for nine years being for a long time one of the board's examiners. For twenty-one years he was a member of the board of education of Ann Arbor, in the work of which he took the keenest interest. It was in his honor that the Eberbach school was named. He joined the American Pharmaceutical Association in 1869, becoming a life member of the organization and many of his contributions to the literature of pharmacy were published by this organization. He was treasurer of the antituberculosis society of Ann Arbor, and was a member of the charter commission appointed several years ago, and was always interested in municipal affairs. He was a Republican in politics. In 1870 he married Miss Catherine Haller of Ann Arbor, Michigan. John William Edwards was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, May 13, 1893, a son of John J. and Mary J. (Ward) Edwards, who were both natives of Port Huron, Michigan. The father was a mimeographer and an inventor. One of his most widely known devices is the push screw driver. His death occurred in Ann Ar 170 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY bor in April 22, 1922. The mother is still living and has reached the age of sixty-seven. The son acquired his early education in the public schools of Ann Arbor and attended the University of Michigan one year. He then spent one year at St. Thomas' College in St. Paul and then had another year in the University of Michigan while the two following years were spent at the State Normal College at Ypsilanti and the University of Detroit. At the outbreak of the World war Mr. Edwards was commissioned in the machine gun division. During this period he was stationed just outside Augusta, Georgia. At the close of the war he returned to Detroit and engaged in teaching at Southeastern High school where he continued for one year. At that time he returned to Ann Arbor and engaged in his present business, which was established by his uncles in 1893, and taken over by his father in 1898 and continued by him until 1920 when he was forced to retire because of ill health. At this time the son assumed the management of the business. This firm prints text books and has the distinction of being the first company to mimeograph text books and is the largest company of its kind in the United States. The business comes from all parts of the United States, about five per cent from Ann Arbor, another five per cent from California, and a certain amount of business from every state in the Union. The business has grown rapidly since Mr. Edwards took the management, and where in 1920 there were eight employes there are now sixty. Mr. Edwards is a member of the Michigan Union, Barton Hills Country Club, Ann Arbor Golf Club and the Chamber of Commerce. He is also widely known through his connections with the Knights of Columbus, the Elks and the American Legion. In 1920 Mr. Edwards married Esther Rynearson of Ypsilanti. There are two children, Joseph Ward, three years of age, and John William, Jr., three months. Byron Alfred Finney, son of Alfred A. and Harriet C. (Kidder) Finney, was born near Hudson, Lenawee county, Michigan, January 26, 1849. He comes from sturdy pioneer farmer stock, his grandparents having come from Vermont and western New York among the earliest settlers of the Bean Creek valley. From there his father formed one of the forty-niners to California, returning to business life in Hudson. The son was educated in the Hudson schools, Hillsdale College, 1865-68, and the University of Michigan, 1868-71, received the degree of.A. B. He is secretary of the class of 1871. After several years of mercantile life in Hudson he was married August 28, 1881, to Ida L. Carrel, of Butler, Indiana, who was then in poor health, and the next two years were passed in travel and study in Europe. From 1883 to 1891 he was connected with the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railway in the office of the superintendent of the Michigan division at Toledo, Ohio, and from 1891 to 1916 held the position of reference librarian in the library of the University of Michigan, from which he retired on the Carnegie Foundation as reference librarian emeritus. He attended the Summer Library School at Amherst, Massa HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 171 chusetts, in 1894, has helped to organize libraries, and has contributed articles to library, historical and bibliographical periodicals. He has for several years been engaged in writing a life of Will Carleton, the Michigan poet. Mr. Finney has always been interested in music, having been in his younger days one of the old-time "fiddlers." He has invented a method of typewriting music, which can be applied to the Hammond typewriting machine, but is as yet too slow a process to be commercially successful. The object, however, has still to be accomplished. Mr. Finney has at times been found guilty of writing verse, but few of them have been published. He has also achieved a pocket theme index, whereby most musical themes can be identified by ear. He has been secretary of the Ann Arbor Humane Society since its organization in 1894, and has served on the board of the State Humane Association. For many years he has taken an active interest in the Michigan Pioneer and Historical Society and has been president of the Washtenaw County Pioneer and Historical Society. Among other societies of which he is a member are: American Library Association, Michigan Library Association, Bibliographical Society of America, and the American Historical Association. In church principles he is Unitarian, and in political faith a Republican. He lives at 849 Tappan avenue, Ann Arbor. Leonard P. Fisher, dentist, 610 First National Bank building, is a member of the blue lodge, chapter and council of the Masonic order, a Shriner, a member of the Grotto and the Eastern Star. He is also affiliated with the Chamber of Commerce, the Kiwanis Club and the Young Men's Christian Association, and is a director of the latter institution. For the past eight years he has been dental inspector for the Ann Arbor public schools. He was born April 29, 1893, at Clyde, Michigan, the son of Frank P. and Ada S. (Johnson) Fisher. The father, who was born at Clyde, Michigan, is now a resident of Caro, Michigan, the mother, whose birthplace was Clyde, having died in 1916. The son, after graduating from high school, entered the University of Michigan where he received the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1916. He then entered private practice in this city, quickly establishing a large clientele. On June 2, 1917, he married Miss Neva M. Hawn, of this city. They have two children, a daughter, Lou Ann, and Leonard Palmer, Jr. George R. Flowerday was born in England, August 1, 1853, a son of Robert and Mary (Bell) Flowerday, both natives of England. The father was a gardener and fruit grower and died in 1896 at the age of seventy-five. George R. Flowerday came to the United States in 1874, and ten years ago opened his greenhouse and floral business in Ann Arbor which ranks as one of the leading enterprises of its kind. Mr. Flowerday married Miss Ellen Moore of Deerfield, Michigan, and they have three children: George H., is associated with his father in the floral business. He was born in Hastings, Nebraska, and is a member of the Elks and 172 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Knights of Pythias. Daisey, who is now Mrs. Myars, lives in Poughkeepsie, New York. She was born in St. Helens, Oregon. Gertrude, who was born in Baker City, Oregon, is teaching music in Ann Arbor. Mr. Flowerday is a member of the Chamber of Commerce and the Knights of Pythias. Dewey M. Forshee, attorney and founder of the Peoples' Abstract Company, of Ann Arbor, is one of the many prominent Washtenaw county lawyers who obtained their legal education at the University of Michigan. He was born in Washtenaw county on February 6, 1882, the son of John and Virginia D. (Cowan) Forshee, both natives of Michigan who are now residents of this city. The son attended school in Washtenaw county and graduated from Ann Arbor high school, and obtained his LL. B. degree from the University of Michigan in 1908. He was admitted to the bar the same year and began practice in this city. From the beginning of his career he took but a slight interest in local politics and has held but one office, that of clerk of Ann Arbor township. In 1911, seeing the need for such an institution in the rapidly growing city, he established the Peoples' Abstract Company which has had a substantial patronage from the start. On November 11, 1912, he was married to Miss Lula M. Nanry, of Washtenaw county. Their only child, La Mar, is now thirteen years old. Mr. Forshee is a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Elks, the Ann Arbor Lawyers' Club, the Chamber of Commerce and both the Washtenaw county and Michigan bar associations. Lewis L. Forsythe, principal of Ann Arbor high school, is a native of Washtenaw county. He was born in York township, November 9, 1880. His father, John Forsythe, was born in New York state, and was a, farmer. He is now living and has reached the age of eighty-one years. His mother, Mary E. (Allen) Forsythe, is a native of Vermont. She is living at the age of seventysix. Mr. Forsythe attended the Mooreville, Michigan, high school through the tenth grade. He was graduated from the Ypsilanti high school, having finished his work in that school. He then entered the Literary Department of the University of Michigan and graduated in 1904. He has taken post graduate work in education, studying at Columbia University for three summers and at the University of Michigan two summers. After his graduation from the university, he became principal of the Manistique high school, but an unfortunate illness forced him to retire during his first year. In the next year, 1905, he was able to resume his work, and served as principal of the high school at Mt. Clemens. He continued there for three years, until June, 1908. His next work was as superintendent of schools at St. Louis, Michigan, in which capacity he served until 1912. From 1912 until 1917, he was superintendent of schools at Ionia. Since that time he has served in Ann Arbor in his present position. He married Susie L. Cawley, of Morenci, Michigan. She attended the Ypsilanti high school and the Normal College Conservatory of Music. The Forsythes have four children: HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 173 Josephine, who is nineteen, is a sophomore in the Home Economics Department of the University of Illinois. Franklin, who is fifteen, was born in St. Louis, Michigan, and is a junior in the high school. Margaret is nine years old, and is in the fifth grade in school. She was born in Ionia, Michigan. Robert, who is seven, was born in Ann Arbor. Mr. Forsythe is connected with a number of educational associations. He is a member of the Michigan State Teachers' Association, the National Education Association, and The National Association of Secondary School Principals. He served as secretary, 1917-1918, and president, 1918-1919, of the State High Schools Principals' Association, and since 1923, has been the president of the Michigan High School Athletic Association. He is a Mason, a member of the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity, the Rotary Club, and is a member of the Methodist Church. He is the treasurer of the Ann Arbor Hills Co., which is a local real estate concern. Charles C. Freeman, one of Ann Arbor's representative business men, was born in Kent county, Michigan, February 19, 1860. He was graduated from the Grand Rapids Business College in 1885 and taught school until 1901 at which time he came to Ann Arbor and was a student in the literary department of the University of Michigan for three years. After leaving school, he began his present business, a student dining room. At one time he was a teacher in Ottawa, Kent and Iona county schools. Later he became principal in the Lake Odessa schools and held that position for ten years. Always interested in the welfare of the city, he was one of the organizers of the Chamber of Commerce, serving on the board of directors for eight years. He is a director of the Civic Association and has served that institution for about eight years. He is vice-president of the Life Conservation Association and a director in the Community Fund organization. Besides his established business, he is interested in the Farmer's and Mechanic's Bank and has served as a director since 1915. He was one of the organizers of the State Street Branch of that bank. He is interested in church work and has served on the board of trustees of the Unitarian church for eight years. Mr. Freeman served one year as a member of the school board and has been a member of the city council of Ann Arbor for ten years. His parents were natives of New York state. His father, who was a farmer, came to Michigan in 1855. He died in 1911 at the age of eighty-two. His mother's death occurred in 1915, at the age of seventy-six. Mr. Freeman is married and has one daughter, Grace. She was born in Ann Arbor fourteen years ago, and is in the ninth grade in the public schools. Charles E. Gallup, realtor, was born in Lenawee county, Michigan, March 14, 1862, a son of Harper P. and Susan Elizabeth (Loman) Gallup, the former a native of Melbourne, Canada, and the latter a native of New Jersey. The father came to the United States at the age of twenty-two years and settled in Wisconsin where he remained four years moving from there to Lenewee coun 174 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY ty, Michigan. He was a carpenter and worked at his trade until his death. Charles E. Gallup received his education in the schools of Lenawee county and Hillsdale College. As a young man he taught school and later became a farmer, an occupation he followed until 1907, when he came to Ann Arbor and engaged in the real estate business in which he has won a considerable degree of success. In addition to his interests in Ann Arbor he is vice-president and director in the Michigan Mutual Savings Association, of Detroit and is president of the Gallup-Folker Common Law Trust Company of Detroit. Mr. Gallup was married in 1884 to Miss Emma Jewell Gallup, who died May 5, 1910, leaving four children. They are: Mrs. Agnes Jewell Ingall, Mrs. Hazel May Sprenger, of Detroit, C. Arthur Gallup, of the Washtenaw Motor Company, of Ann Arbor, and Mrs. Lucile Burd, also of Ann Arbor. On May 7, 1912, Mr. Gallup was again married to Mrs. Harriet M. Shafer. Mr. Gallup is a Mason, a member of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce, the Ann Arbor Real Estate Board and a member of the official board of the Methodist church. Neil A. Gates, physician and surgeon, 314 South Fifth avenue, Ann Arbor, has rendered a great service to the community in establishing his modern private hospital at the above address. This hospital is said to be one of the most complete and up-to-date of the many privately owned institutions of its kind in the United States. Here Doctor Gates cares for a selected clientele and conducts original researches in various diseases. His fame as a surgeon and specialist in internal medicine has spread to other cities, and he receives many patients from distant parts of this and surrounding states. He was born in Ann Arbor on March 16, 1873, and was educated in the public schools of this city and the University of Michigan. His father, John A. Gates, a native of Schenectady, New York, was a contractor and builder. His mother, Mrs. Isadore (McCormick) Gates, is still living in Ann Arbor, the city in which she was born. Doctor Gates married Amelia C. Schneider, of Delhi, Michigan. They have two children: Neil A., Jr., who is a student in high school, and Lois M., who lives at home. Doctor Gates is a member of the Washtenaw County Medical Society, the Michigan State Medical Society and the American Medical Association, and is also affiliated with the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. His fraternal affiliations are with the Masons, Elks, Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias. Charles W. Graham, proprietor of Graham book stores, 320 South State street, Ann Arbor, was born in Niantic, Illinois, on March 18, 1884, the son of James M. and Catherine (Wallace) Graham. The father, who was born in Ireland, achieved great success as a lawyer and was a member of congress for fourteen years. He is now retired, at the age of seventy-seven years, and is living in Springfield, Illinois. The mother was a native of Illinois. Charles W. Graham attended high school for three and one-half years and then entered the University of Illinois, where he completed his academic education and finished his college course. He HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 175 then entered the college text book business at Champaign, Illinois, where he remained until coming to this city in 1916, when he purchased what is now the Graham book stores. This business was established more than fifty years ago, and draws patronage from all parts of south-central Michigan. His wife was Miss Marie Lewis, of Salt Lake City, Utah. They have four children, Agnes, Wallace, Virginia and Martha. He is a member of the Barton Hills Country Club, the Washtenaw Country Club, the Chamber of Commerce and is chairman of the Camp Fire Girls' Club of Ann Arbor. He is a member of the Elks and Knights of Columbus, Psi Upsilon, Phi Delta Phi, Ann Arbor Country Club and Exchange Club. William Taylor Groves is of a family of early pioneers who came to this county in 1831 and whose names have a prominent place in the history of the county. His father was Albert D. Groves, a native of Northfield, Michigan. By occupation, he was a farmer and later entered the mortgage loan business. Always interested in the public service, he was an alderman in common council, served as federal food administrator for Washtenaw county in 1918 and was chairman of the board of county auditors at the time of his death, which occurred July 12, 1924. He lived to be seventy-one years of age. The mother who was, before her marriage, Emma L. Taylor, was born in Northfield sixty-six years ago. She is now a resident of Ann Arbor. William Parley Groves, grandfather of William Taylor Groves, was a well known fruit grower of Northfield and had many interests at Ann Arbor. He was active in the founding of the First National Bank in 1863 and the Ann Arbor Savings Bank in 1869. He was also active in the founding of the University School of Music. He died in 1899, aged seventy-nine years. Nicholas Groves, great-grandfather of William Taylor Groves, came to Washtenaw county from East Charlemont, Massachusetts, in 1831. He traveled from Detroit with his supplies in an ox cart and settled in Northfield township on government land. Here he served as one of the first township officials in 1833. It was he who warned the settlers of their danger at the time of the Black Hawk war in 1832. In 1837, when mail was carried on horseback from Ann Arbor to South Lyons, there was a postoffice established on his farm, known as Lucerne, his son, William Parley Groves acting as postmaster. His death occurred in 1866. Jesse Groves, father of Nicholas Groves, served with George Washington in 1775, also with General Gates in the campaign against Burgoyne in 1877. The first of the family in America, Nicholas La Groves, came from the Isle of Jersey and was an early settler at Beverly, Massachusetts. In 1668 he signed the petition against imposts to the general court of Massachusetts Bay colony. William T. Groves came to Ann Arbor in 1907 and attended the literary department of the University of Michigan. He is now connected with the city water works in the capacity of bookkeeper and also is manager of the Albert D. Groves Company. His wife, before her marriage, was Eleanor 176 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Harrington of Owosso, Michigan. They have one son, William Albert, born March 9, 1926. Mr. Groves is a member of Golden Rule Lodge and Washtenaw Chapter R. A. M. of the Masonic order; vice-commander of Irwin Preiskorn Post A. L.; treasurer of the Washtenaw Chapter of Sons of the American Revolution and trustee of the Leland Cemetery Association. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce and a communicant of the Episcopal church. Mr. Groves served during 1924 on the committee which was chosen for marking the one hundredth anniversary of the founding of Ann Arbor. He still owns the old homestead in Northfield which has been in the family for four generations. In 1915 he compiled and published a history of the Groves family in America. During the World war he was a private in the Thirty-third Company, Ninth Battalion, 169 D. B. and later was transferred to infantry unassigned. Charles R. Henderson is the general manager of the Washtenaw Gas Company of Ann Arbor. He is a native of Washtenaw county, born November 19, 1889. His father, Frank Henderson, a native of New York state, was born in 1852. His life has been spent on a farm. The mother, Mary (Sattler) Henderson was born in Germany. Mr. Henderson attended country schools for his early education and at the completion of this entered the University of Michigan, graduating with the degree of Bachelor of Science in 1914. He was then employed by the Washtenaw Gas Company, as assistant superintendent. Deserving of promotion, he was made general manager of the company in August, 1923. Mr. Henderson is a Mason, a member of the Blue Lodge and also the Exchange Club, Chamber of Commerce, American Association of Engineers, Michigan Gas Association, American Gas Association, Barton Hills Country Club and the Michigan Union. He is a communicant at St. Andrew's church. His wife, Fannie Henderson, nee Manwarring, whom he married in 1916, is a native of Superior, Wisconsin. The Hendersons have three children, Frances Manwarring, Mary Manwarring, and Robert, Jr. Frederick Jacob Heusel was born of German parentage in Ann Arbor, October 9, 1884. His grandfather, Frederick Heusel, who died in Germany in 1900, married Mary Steimaier, also a native of that country. Their son, Frederick, Jr., was born in Wurtenburg, Germany, May 1, 1850. He was educated in Germany and came to the United States at the age of twenty-three years, locating in New Haven, Connecticut. He was employed there in a machine shop for a number of years. After an extended trip through the west and southwest, he returned to New Haven where he worked in a bakery until 1879. He then came to Ann Arbor, and for fourteen years was employed by the Koch & Haller Company. In 1894 he established his own bakery. In 1883 he married Mary Niethammer of Freedom, Michigan. They had four children, Frederick J., the subject of this sketch, Amanda Paulina, deceased, Erwin Carl, and Freda Marguerita. Frederick Heusel, having com HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 177 leted his education at the Ann Arbor high school, went to Detroit and for two years was engaged in various activities. He then spent several months in Syracuse, New York, in the bakery supply business. On his return to Ann Arbor he took over the management of his father's business which has developed rapidly through his efforts. On June 24, 1907, he was married to Miss Edith Frances Brock of Ann Arbor. Mr. Heusel was the first president of the Kiwanis Club and is a past chancellor of the Knights of Pythias, a member of the Elks, in which he held the chair of esquire for five years, and a member of the Odd Fellows. He is a Mason, a member of the Blue Lodge, Council, Chapter, Commandery, Consistory, Shrine, Eastern Star and is past monarch of Zal Gaz Grotto. He is past president of the Michigan State Bakers Association, past president of the Tri-State Bakers Association which includes Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. He has also served as coroner, and as a member of the board of directors of the Community Fund. He has been a member of the board of supervisors for several years and is a member of the local Y. M. C. A. He is a member of the Zion Lutheran Church. Mr. Heusel is widely known and highly respected in the community in which he lives. Thomas D. Hinshaw was born in Chicago, October 21, 1899. He is a son of William Wade Hinshaw, well known in musical circles, who was for a number of years before the late war, leading baritone singer with the Metropolitan Grand Opera Company, and is now an operatic producer. He is also owner of the large musical instrument and merchandise establishment on the corner of William and Maynard streets. He was born in Harding county, Iowa, and has reached the age of sixty years. He and his wife, who was before her marriage, Mabel Clyde, now reside in New York City. Thomas D. Hinshaw attended high school in Berkeley school, New York, spent some time in Tome school, in Maryland, and finished his course in the Ann Arbor high school. He also attended Culver Military Academy. After this preparatory work he entered the University of Michigan and was graduated from the literary and business administration departments in 1921. At the present time he is a department manager of the largest musical instrument store in the city. Mr. Hinshaw is not married. He has a brother, William Wade Hinshaw, Jr., who is a practicing lawyer with the firm of Winston Strawn & Shaw of Chicago. He is a graduate of both the literary and law departments of the University of Michigan. Thomas D. Hinshaw is well known through his connections with fraternal and social organizations. He is especially interested in the Masonic order and is a member of Fraternity Lodge F. & A. M. 262, Washtenaw Chapter No. 6, Ann Arbor Council No. 86, Ann Arbor Commandery, and the Consistory in Detroit. He is also a member of Zeta Psi Fraternity, a member of the Barton Hills Golf Club, the Ann Arbor Golf Club, and the Chamber of Commerce. Dana E. Hiscock is of a family of sturdy New England stock, early pioneers in Michigan. Noah Hiscock, his great-great-grand 178 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY father was a native of Massachusetts and of English descent. His son, James Hiscock, born in Massachusetts in 1788, was a farmer and fought in the War of 1812. His death occurred in 1840. His wife, Nancy (Sprange) Hiscock, a native of the same state was born in 1794 and died in 1850. She was also of English descent. The grandfather, Daniel Hiscock, was born in Wayne county, Pennsylvania, September 15, 1819. Ten years later he came with his parents to Michigan where they located on land known as section 20, which is now a part of Ann Arbor. The journey from the east, which was made in a three-horse wagon, was filled with hardships. He became a progressive farmer and fruit raiser and was noted for his large peach orchards. His successes in the sheep growing business made him prominent in the wool business throughout the county. One of the organizers of the Ann Arbor Savings Bank, he served on their board of directors for twentyfive years. He belonged to the Republican party and took an active interest in politics, serving one term as supervisor and three terms as alderman. The last six or seven years of his life were spent in establishing a coal and wood business. An unfortunate railroad accident terminated his life May 30, 1901. He was struck by a Michigan Central passenger train while driving in his buggy. His wife, Maria (White) Hiscock, was a native of New York state. Their son, and father of the subject of this sketch, Edward D. Hiscock, was born in Ann Arbor, November 20, 1853. He carried on the coal and wood business which his father had started. He died in 1919. His wife, born April 16, 1864, is a native of Livingston county, Michigan, and is a resident of Ann Arbor. Dana E. Hiscock was born in Webster township, Washtenaw county, June 13, 1885. Having completed his education, he started to learn the business of his father. Under his management that business has grown and developed until at present it is one of the largest of its kind in the city. In April, 1923, he became a director in the Ann Arbor Finance Company, and in the fall of that year assumed the duties as treasurer. On October 15, 1908, he married Miss Cora M. Lamphear, who was born in Webster township, Washtenaw county. Their daughters are Alice and Helen. Mr. Hiscock is a member of several of the branches of Masonry, a member of the Knights of Pythias, and the Elks. He has served on the board of directors of both the Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club. Howard K. Holland, of the firm of Holland, Ackerman & Holland, consulting engineers, 106 East Liberty street, Ann Arbor, was born March 24, 1884, at Cassopolis, Michigan, the son of Dr. Marion Holland, a practicing physician of that city. His mother was, before her marriage, Harriet J. Kingsbury, of Cassopolis. Doctor Holland was born in St. Joseph, Michigan, in 1850, receiving his medical education at the University of Michigan. His death occurred in July, 1920. Howard K. Holland graduated from the high school at Cassopolis and then entered the University of Michigan, receiving the degree of Bachelor of Science in civil engineer HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 179 ing in 1908. He then became assistant instructor in the survey department of the university, giving up this position one year later to accept another with Gardner S. Williams. On September 4, 1914, he married Alma M. Schmid, of Manchester, Michigan. They have three children, Howard K., Jr., Roberta L. and John M. With his brother, Ray K. Holland, and George E. Ackerman, of Chicago, he organized the firm of consulting engineers mentioned above, opening offices in the year 1917. He is one of the organizers of the Country Club, a member of the Chamber of Commerce, the Michigan Union, as well as his college fraternity, Tau Beta Pi, and the Masons. Ray K. Holland, of the firm of Holland, Ackerman & Holland, consulting engineers, 106 East Liberty street, Ann Arbor, was born in Cassopolis, Michigan, on May 31, 1882, the son of Dr. Marion and Harriet J. (Kingsbury) Holland. His father, a graduate of the University of Michigan, was born in 1850 at St. Joseph, Michigan, and died in July, 1920, at Cassopolis. Ray K. Holland graduated from the University of Michigan school of engineering in 1908, receiving the degree of Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering. Though his brother, Howard K., remained at the university as assistant engineer in the survey department, Ray immediately accepted a position with Gardner S. Williams of Ann Arbor, as an assistant. In 1911 he was advanced to the position of assistant engineer, promotion to the position of principal assistant engineer following in 1913. In 1917, with his brother, Howard, he became a member of the firm of Holland, Ackerman & Holland, consulting engineers, which has had a substantial success. He has served as a member of the Ann Arbor board of education, and has been active in projects of the Chamber of Commerce. Besides his honorary college fraternity, Tau Beta Pi, Mr. Holland holds membership in three scientific bodies, the American Society of Civil Engineers, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the American Institute of Electrical Engineers, as well as the American Water Works Association. Fraternally he is a Mason. His wife, whom he married on January 29, 1909, was Elexis Hughes, of Cassopolis. They have two children, Christopher Hughes and Jo Ann. F. Roy Holmes, real estate dealer, 113 South Main street, Ann Arbor, was born on a farm in Adams county, Indiana, June 25, 1876, the son of Andrew W. and Mary (Ray) Holmes, who were, respectively, natives of Indiana and Ohio. After graduating from the schools in his home county, Holmes entered the Tri-State Normal College at Angola, Indiana. After graduating from this institution he enlisted in the 157th Indiana Infantry to serve in the Spanish-American war. He then taught school for a period of seven years. His next venture was to engage in farming, in which occupation he remained only for a short while, when he sold his property and moved to Portland, Indiana, to enter the real estate business. After having enjoyed a steady patronage for a number of years, he sought newer and more profitable fields, finally !?o HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY deciding to move to Ann Arbor, which he did in 1911. In his new location he has made a host of friends, both business and personal, and annually disposes of a large volume of farm and city property. During the World war he gave up his private business to become an employe of the War Risk Insurance division of the treasury department at Washington, D. C. He is past president of the Ann Arbor Real Estate Board and vice-president of the Chamber of Commerce. He was married in 1900 to Miss Cora A. Watters, of Fremont, Indiana. They have two children, Thelma M., a graduate nurse in the University of Michigan, and Harold W., a student in that institution. Harmon S. Holmes, whose death occurred January 2, 1922, was for many years one of the leading business men and prominent citizens of Washtenaw county. He was born in Lenawee county, Michigan, December 28, 1854, a son of Samuel and Cornelia (Peters) Holmes, who were farming people and were among the pioneer settlers of this section of Michigan. Mr. Holmes was reared on a farm and received his education in the rural schools of Scio township and the village school of Dexter, Washtenaw county. In 1872 he formed a partnership with Thomas Wilkinson under the firm name of Wilkinson & Holmes and opened a store in Chelsea, this city being the scene of his activities the remainder of his life. This firm later became Holmes & Parker, then Durand, Holmes & Parker and later H. S. Holmes Mercantile Company. He also was a member of the firm of Holmes & Walker, dealers in farm implements and hardware. Upon the organization of the Kempf Commercial and Savings Bank he became interested in this institution and the later years of his life found him serving as its president. He was also interested in other enterprises in other parts of the state, among them being Dancer-Brogan Company of Lansing. In October, 1879, Mr. Holmes was united in marriage to Miss Edith Leavitt, of Boston, Massachusetts, and they became the parents of three children: Ralph H., a real estate dealer of Battle Creek; Enid, the wife of H. A. Ellis, of Grand Rapids, and Howard S., of Chelsea. Mrs. Holmes died in 1915. Mr. Holmes was a member of the Congregational church and was affiliated with the Masonic and Knights of Pythias lodges. In every relation of life he measured up to the full standard of manhood. Howard S. Holmes, prominent member of the flour milling business in Southern Michigan, was born in Chelsea, Michigan, June 2, 1886, a son of Harmon S. and Edith (Leavitt) Holmes, who are mentioned elsewhere in this volume. Mr. Holmes attended the public schools at Chelsea after which he matriculated at the University of Michigan and was graduated from that institution with the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1907. After the completion of his education he went into the banking business with his father and continued in that line of work until 1916 when he went into the Chelsea Milling Co. as manager and secretary and treasurer, which position he holds at this time. He is also secretary and treasurer HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 181 of the Chelsea Lumber & Coal Co. of Chelsea and vice-president of the Dancer-Brogan Co., of Lansing, Michigan, and a member of the board of directors of the Chelsea Screw Co. He married Miss Mabel I. White, who was born in Illinois, and they are the parents of twin boys eleven years of age. The boys, Howard S. and Dudley K., were born in Chelsea and attend school there. Mr. Holmes has served as councilman and in other positions of trust in his community and always takes an active part in any movement for the betterment of the community. It was largely due to his efforts that Chelsea has a Boy Scout organization and he serves on the County Scout Board. He is a member of the Congregational church, the Masons, Knights of Pythias, the Elks, the Chelsea Golf Club, Sylvan Estates Golf Club, Barton Hills Country Club and the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. Paul Kasurin, member of a firm of prominent architects in Ann Arbor, was born in Finland, May 5, 1887. Mr. Kasurin had his education in Finland, and studied at the Technical University at Helsingfors. On his arrival in this country he went to Detroit where he remained until 1923, occupied with work in his profession. In 1923 he came to Ann Arbor and has been associated with Lynn W. Fry in the architectural firm of Fry & Kasurin. His wife, Hannah E. (Ford) Kasurin, was born in Highland Park, Michigan. They have one child, Robert, aged three years who was born in Detroit. Mr. Kasurin is well known through his associations with various fraternal and social orders of Ann Arbor. He is a Mason, a member of all branches of that order, a member of the Huron Hills Golf Club, a member of the Ann Arbor Lawn Club, a member of the Michigan Society of Architects, and a member of the Chamber of Commerce. David Alexander Killins, for many years a successful Ann Arbor business man was born in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, April 11, 1858. In 1881 he started a hardware store in South Lyon, Michigan, which he conducted until 1909, when he came to Ann Arbor and established the State Street Hardware Company. In 1915 he organized the David A. Killins & Sons Company, dealers in real estate, and in 1920 he established the Killins Sand & Gravel Company, with a plant two miles west of the city, and was president of these at the time of his death. December 14, 1879, Mr. Killins married Miss Kate R. Bigham, of Brighton, Michigan. Of this marriage four children were born: Charles B., Rhena, Glenn E. and Ray C. Charles B. died at the age of twenty-six and Rhena died at the age of one year. Glenn E. and Ray C. were partners with their father and continue in the business since his death. David A. Killins met an accidental death by being struck down by an automobile in the city of Detroit, March 2, 1925. Theopil Klingmann, Ph.C., M.D., F.A.C.P., was born in Lodi township, Washtenaw county, Michigan, on July 3, 1868. His parents, Stephan and Caroline (Diehr) Klingmann were both natives of Baden, Germany, and came to this country in 1861. The 182 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Rev. Stephan Klingmann, the father of Doctor Klingmann, was a Lutheran minister in charge of Salems parish, Lodi, Washtenaw county for twenty-five years and a prominent clergyman in the state. After his death, in 1891, the family took up their residence in Ann Arbor. Doctor Klingmann received his education in the parish school and college preparatory at Concordia College, Fort Wayne, Indiana. He entered the University of Michigan and received the degree of Pharmaceutical Chemist in 1890 and the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1892. He then practiced medicine for three years at Bay City, Michigan, and at the end of this period, he went abroad for post-graduate study for two years, at the University of Berlin and the University of Leipsig, Germany. After returning to this country he became affiliated with the medical school of the University of Michigan in the department of nervous and mental diseases. He continued this work until 1920, when he became chief of the department of the nervous and mental diseases of St. Joseph's Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor, and engaged in private practice in this specialty. He was married in 1921 to Helene Elizabeth Judson of Ann Arbor. In 1924, Doctor Klingmann became medical director of Mercywood Sanitarium for nervous and mental disorders in connection with his other work. He is prominent in this county and abroad in his line of work and is the author of a number of publications on nervous and mental diseases and a member of state, national and international medical societies. He is a member of Phi Beta Phi Medical Fraternity and of Barton Hills Country Club. William G. Kolb, who operates one of Chelsea's most popular eating places, was born in the city of Chelsea, in 1894. His father was a native of France. His name was Joseph Kolb and he was a carpenter and finisher by trade. His wife, and the mother of William G., Katherine (Barthell) Kolb, was born in Germany. She is now living in Chelsea and is fifty-two years of age. The father died in 1922 at the age of sixty-one. William G. Kolb received his early education in the public schools of Chelsea. He then attended Assumption College in Sandwich, Ontario, and was graduated from the four-year course. In 1917 he went into the army and saw active service overseas. He was in the 310th Field Signal Battalion and was discharged in 1919. He returned to Chelsea in that year and bought a restaurant business. He has operated this restaurant since with the exception of a period of six months which he spent in Ann Arbor. Mr. Kolb is also interested in the Detroit Flag Manufacturing Company, of Chelsea. He is a member of the American Legion and of the Knights of Columbus. Walter Lewis Kurtz, who is a mason contractor, has been a member of the firm of Weinberg & Kurtz for twelve years. During this period the business has grown and prospered and holds an important place in the development of Ann Arbor. Mr. Kurtz is a son of a cabinet maker who was born in Washtenaw county, and who died in Ann Arbor in 1909 at the age of forty-two. His mother, Anna (Otto) Kurtz was a native of Canada. She also HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 183 passed away in Ann Arbor, in 1911, having reached the age of forty-one. Mr. Kurtz, born May 27, 1889, is a native of Ann Arbor. He married Miss Emma Zahn, who was born in Washtenaw county, October 17, 1884. This marriage has been blessed with five children. Celia is fifteen and in the high school. The other children, Irvin, who is fourteen; Eugene, ten years of age; Jane Marie, eight, and Raymond, five years of age, attend the public schools in Ann Arbor. Mr. Kurtz is a member of Schwaben Verein, and of the Chamber of Commerce. Francis J. Lapointe, president of the American Broach & Machine Company, 409 West Huron street, Ann Arbor, was born in Thomastown, Connecticut, August 15, 1885. His father, J. N. Lapointe, was born in the same city, and at the time of his retirement from the manufacturing industry had charge of departments of the Seth Thomas clock factories. His mother, Mrs. Melvina (Chichioin) Lapointe, was born in Canada of French parents. Mr. Lapointe attended schools in Hartford and Hyde Park, Massachusetts, after which he entered the manufacturing of small tools and machines headed by his father. Three years later he was placed in full charge of a broaching equipment factory at Hudson, Massachusetts, and later at New London, Connecticut. Here, in a short while, he increased the company's business to such an extent that at the time of 1917, when the Lapointes disposed of the interests, it was the largest of its kind in the world. In 1917 he came to Ann Arbor, where he founded the corporation of which he is president. His standing in the machine tool industry is such that he has often been called on to submit articles to various magazines, describing the uses and methods of operation of the special equipment produced by his factory. Among the nationally known manufacturers using Lapointe's broaching machines is the Winchester Repeating Arms Company, Studebaker Corporation, Dodge Brothers, Singer Sewing Machine Company, Ford Motor Company, Willys-Overland, and in fact practically all of the motor car manufacturers and machine tool manufacturers. He has made a study of providing special tools for the trade, many of which depend on him to devise time-saving broaching equipment for their plants. He takes an active interest in the machine tool trade as a whole, and is a member of the Michigan Manufacturing Association and the National Manufacturing Association. He is also a Rotarian and a member of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce, which he helped to organize. Fraternally he is a Mason. He was married in 1905 to Ada Cox of Johnston City, Tennessee. They have three children: June, age thirteen; Elmer, age nine, and Esther, age six. Carl A. Lehman, distinguished for his public service in Washtenaw county, was born in Chelsea, Michigan, November 22, 1889. His father was a native of Germany, coming to America at the age of sixteen. He was a graduate of the law school of the University of Michigan and served as prosecuting attorney for some years. He also served on the school commission. He was married to 184 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Mary A. Schumacher of Waterloo, Michigan. His life of service ended with his death, July 27, 1913. Carl A. Lehman graduated from the University of Michigan in 1913 with the degree of Bachelor of Laws, and was admitted to the bar in that year. He opened offices in Ann Arbor and began his practice. In 1915 he began his public service as prosecuting attorney for Washtenaw county, and continued in this capacity until 1919. He served as circuit court commissioner from 1923 to 1925. Mr. Lehman served thirteen months in France, during the late war, with the 333rd Ambulance Corps of the Eighty-fourth Division, and is a member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He is also a Mason, an Elk, and a member of the Ann Arbor Lawyer's Club. He married Miss Elise Eberwein, of Ann Arbor, December 31, 1907. Their son Arthur C., is fifteen years of age. George E. Lewis was born in Wayne county, November 17, 1884. His parents were also natives of this county. His father, Alton E. Lewis, was born November 21, 1860. Leaving the farm in 1903, he became connected with the Michigan Ladder Company, of Ypsilanti, taking the position of treasurer and manager of the concern. He still serves the company in this capacity. Susan E. (Huston) Lewis is his wife. George E. Lewis after the completion of his high school work at Ypsilanti, matriculated at the University of Michigan in the engineering college, receiving his degree of Bachelor of Science in 1908 and his Master's degree in 1909. His first position after leaving school was with the Packard Motor Car Company, of Detroit, as assistant chief draftsman. Later he went to York, Pennsylvania, with the S. Morgan Smith Water Wheel Co. In 1910 he returned to Ann Arbor to accept a position as an instructor in descriptive geometry at the University of Michigan. When the opportunity was presented, Mr. Lewis became associated with the Eastern Michigan Edison Company. His responsibility was superintendency of the Ann Arbor district. After the merger of this firm with the Detroit Edison Company, he was made superintendent of the Huron River power plants, important holdings of the Detroit Edison Company. Mr. Lewis still holds this position. He has long been actively interested in politics. In 1919 he served as president of the common council, and in 1921 was elected mayor of the city, serving until May, 1925. He has been interested in public work in other capacities and headed the Community Chest work in 1918. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, has been secretary of the Rotary Club since 1916, and is a member of the Masonic order. Mr. Lewis and Lora Wright of Grand Blanc, Michigan, were married in 1911. They have a daughter, Margaret. J. H. Lonskey, who is president of the Ypsilanti Foundry Company, was born in Vincennes, Indiana, November 4, 1879. His father, Charles Lonskey, is a native of Alsace-Lorraine, coming to this country when about nineteen years of age. He worked as a railroad mechanic in a roundhouse of the B. & O. railroad until his death. His wife, Mary Lonskey, nee Anleitner, was from Vin HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 185 cennes. Mr. Lonskey attended the public schools until he was twelve years of age and at that time started to work. His early education was later supplemented by correspondence courses, which he studied both before and after his marriage. He was employed in the plumbing trade for four or five years after which time he began work in a machine shop, specializing in work on moulding machine specialties. After some time spent in charge of several large foundries, he went to Detroit and in 1911 organized the Central Specialty Company. In 1919 he moved to Ypsilanti and organized the Ypsilanti Foundry Company, which is incorporated for one hundred thousand dollars. Mr. Lonskey serves as secretary of the Detroit company and is president of the Ypsilanti firm. He married Miss Martha Alice Utt, of Vincennes, and they have three children, Aline, wife of Roy Connolly of Ypsilanti; Harold B., and Lucile. Mr. Lonskey is an Elk, a member of the Washtenaw Country Club, and of the Ypsilanti Board of Commerce. John H. Lundgren was born in Sweden, February 7, 1898, a son of John Eric and Livisa (Anderson) Lundgren, the former of whom was a farmer until his death in 1898. The mother still makes her home in her native land. John H. Lundgren was educated in the public schools of Sweden and came to the United States in 1910, and obtained work in New York City as a florist, remaining there six years. In 1922 he came to Ann Arbor and organized the Ann Arbor Floral Company of which he has been president. In 1912 he married Miss Elizabeth Erikson, also of Sweden, and they have become the parents of three children, Richard L., Henry H., and Clarence L. Mr. Lundgren is well known in Masonic circles, holding membership in the Blue Lodge, Scottish Rite, the Shrine and the Eastern Star. He is also a member of the Elks, Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce and the State Florist Association. A. L. McDonald, one of the representative business men of Ann Arbor was born in Lapeer county, Michigan, July 18, 1886, a son of James J. and Caroline (Greibell) McDonald. The father was for many years engaged in the insurance business and is now deceased, while the mother is still living. A. L. McDonald attended the public schools of Grand Rapids and graduated from the high school of that city. He then attended the Michigan Agricultural College and when his school days were over he entered the organization of the Connor Ice Cream Company as manager of the Lansing office. Eighteen months later he went to South Dakota to engage in the manufacturing business on his own account. From there he went to Washington, D. C., and became superintendent of the Fussel Ice Cream Company and later superintendent of the Home Ice Company of that city. At the time the United States entered the World war Mr. McDonald went to Detroit where he assisted with the production of munitions and military supplies. Returning to Ann Arbor he became manager of the local plant of the Connor Ice Cream Company, in which he has shown a marked degree of efficiency. He is vice-president of the building association of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce, secretary of the 186 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Ann Arbor Finance Company, a member of the advisory board of the Auto Club, and president of the Triangle Club. In 1915 Mr. McDonald was married to Miss E. Marie Randolph, of Carson City, Michigan, and they have become the parents of three sons, two of whom are living, Randolph Bruce and John Stuart. Mr. McDonald is a thirty-second degree Mason and a member of the B. P. O. E. Both he and Mrs. McDonald are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Donald S. McIntyre, manager and joint owner of the Whitney Theatre and Whitney Hotel, is one of the few Ann Arbor business men who have enjoyed a trip around the world. While he has many business responsibilities and active in many civic projects, Mr. McIntyre maintains a pleasant disposition and a cheerful outlook on life. He finds time from his own duties to lend assistance to Ann Arbor's social and charitable organizations, and is a member of the Elks, the Barton Hills Country Club, the Washtenaw Country Club and the Chamber of Commerce. He was born in Ann Arbor, his father, William H. McIntyre, real estate dealer and proprietor of a grocery store, having been sheriff of Washtenaw county during the Civil war. The jail which was under William H. McIntyre's management in those eventful days is still standing. The mother, Mrs. Sarah (Maloney) McIntyre, was also a resident of Ann Arbor at the time of her marriage. Donald S. McIntyre attended the public schools in Ann Arbor and the high school and later entered the University of Michigan. He then began a newspaper career in Detroit, where he remained for many years, though retaining his residence in Ann Arbor. In 1910 he accepted the position of manager of the Whitney Theatre, and in 1915, together with James D. Murnan, he purchased the building which contains the theatre and the Whitney Hotel. It was in 1922 that he made the trip around the world to which he had looked forward many years. At the present time he is very busy with his many duties as manager of the Whitney Theatre and one of the owners of the Whitney Hotel and Whitney Theatre, though he is ever ready to give his aid to any worthy enterprise, be it social, political or charitable. Charles McKenny, A.M., LL.D., president of the Michigan State Normal School at Ypsilanti, was born in Dimondale, Eaton county, Michigan, September 5, 1860, a son of Albert and Angeline (Torry) McKenny. He attended the Michigan Agricultural College from which he received the Bachelor of Science degree in 1881. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Olivet College in 1889 and the degree of A. M. from the University of Wisconsin in 1904. In 1892 Olivet College conferred upon him the degree of Master of Arts and in 1912 the degree of LL. D. Doctor McKenny has a wide experience in teaching. From 1882 until 1889 he was engaged in teaching in the schools of Charlotte and Vermontville, Michigan. In 1889 he became instructor of English and History in Olivet College continuing this position until 1895, while the following year he served as Professor of History in the same in HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 187 stitution. From 1896 until 1900 he was principal of the State Normal School at Mount Pleasant, Michigan. He then became president of the State Normal School at Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and held that position until 1912 when he came to Ypsilanti and assumed the presidency of the State Normal School of this place, a position which he still holds. During his years as an instructor Doctor McKenny has held important positions in various educational associations and societies. He was secretary in 1894, and president in 1899, of the Michigan State Teachers Association. From 1908 to 1910 he served as president of the National Society for the Study of Education. He was president of the Association of American Teachers Colleges from 1917 to 1919, and served as president of the Michigan School Masters Club from 1919 to 1920. Doctor McKenny holds membership in the National Council of Education, National Educational Association. He is also a member of the Rotary Club and the Ypsilanti Board of Commerce, having served one term as president of the latter organization. He is a member of the Congregational church. Doctor McKenny is nationally known as an educator and is a lecturer of ability, and is the author of a number of publications, among which is, "The Personality of the Teacher," published in 1910. He also is editor of "The American Schoolmaster," a magazine devoted to educational matters. Doctor McKenny was married June 25, 1890, to Miss Minnie E. Alderman of Vermontville, Michigan. They have three children, Charles Arthur, engineer with the Ford Company at Hamilton, Ohio; Lawrence A., a teacher in Detroit, and Marion Louise, a student at the University of Michigan. Clare H. McKinley is the manager of the Ann Arbor Times. He was born in Caseville, Michigan, May 30, 1889. His father, John McKinley, a native of Michigan, was a merchant. His death occurred in 1907 at the age of forty-seven. The mother, Louise (Libby) McKinley, is also a native of Michigan and has reached the age of sixty-two. Mr. McKinley attended school in Caseville and afterward went to St. John's in 1903, where he entered newspaper work. After working in Owosso and Lansing, he went to Flint where he continued his newspaper work for ten years. He has been the manager of the Ann Arbor Times since 1920, coming to Ann Arbor from Flint. He married Miss Marion Spencer of Iona, Michigan. The McKinleys have no children. Mr. McKinley is interested in the youth of the city and of the state. He is president of the Y. M. C. A., and the Boy Scouts of America, and also serves on the executive board of the Michigan Children's Aid Society. He is a Mason, member of the Grotto, a member of the Elks at Flint, a member of the Ann Arbor City Club, the Barton Hills Country Club, the Rotary Club and the Chamber of Commerce. E. P. Mack is a native of Canada. He was born in Rodney, Ontario, July 16, 1890. His parents are of fine old Canadian stock. The father, Henry W. Mack, was born at Wellman's Corners, as was also the mother, Annie (Sine) Mack. Henry Mack is a re 188 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY tired clergyman and has reached the age of seventy-three. His wife is sixty-eight years of age. Mr. Mack attended the high schools at Hadley and Ovid, Michigan. He attended Kalamazoo College for two years and then entered the University of Michigan and was graduated from the pharmacy department of that school in 1912. His first year after graduation was spent with the Quarry Drug Company, after which he went to Kalamazoo, and spent six years in the drug business in that city. Upon his return to Ann Arbor he went into the Calkins Fletcher Drug Company, and now serves as vice-president of that firm and also manages their branch store No. 1. His wife is a native of Lodi township, Washtenaw county, and was before her marriage, Miss Zeo E. Coles. The Macks have no children. Mr. Mack is a Mason and a member of the Chamber of Commerce and is well known as an able and efficient business man. J. Karl Malcolm, manager of the Ypsi-Ann Land Company, which has over four hundred acres of valuable real estate under development, is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Barton Hills Country Club and a director of the Ann Arbor Community Fund Association. Having a keen sense of real estate values and seeing the increasing demand for suitable building sites, Mr. Malcolm and his associates have acquired what is regarded as one of the most promising tracts of land for sub-division purposes in the state of Michigan. Born in Scotland, Ontario, March 26, 1878, the son of George Duncan and Ann Eliza (Robinson) Malcolm, of Scotch ancestry, he quit school at an early age to enter the field of business. He obtained a position in a tailor's shop, where he mastered each detail of the trade, continuing in this business thirty-two years, in Port Huron, Lapeer and Ann Arbor. Coming to this city in 1902 he associated himself with the Wagner Company, where he remained for six years. He then became manager of the Consumers Clothing Company, purchasing this firm from its owners two years later. After conducting this store in a profitable manner for ten years and making a host of personal and business friends, he entered the real estate business in which he has had an enviable success. Where other men hesitated to risk their capital by investing in unoccupied and undeveloped real estate. Mr. Malcolm saw the values which the future was sure to bring. The soundness of his judgment is now apparent in the many homes already erected on the land which they have obtained. Most of this real estate is now worth many times the price originally paid for it, and indications are that it will continue to grow in value. In 1904 he married Miss Clara Irene Laing, of Chicago. They have three children, Karl Day, Russell Laing, and Dorothy Louise. Both Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm are active in Ann Arbor's civic affairs and are popular members of the Barton Hills Country Club. Mr. Malcolm has been a member of the Y. M. C. A. board of directors six years. He is a member of the Masonic lodge, including the Shrine, and the Congregational church. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 189 Mathew Max, proprietor of Max's Shoe Store on Michigan avenue; Ypsilanti, was born in that city, September 5, 1877. His father, Nicholas Max, was born in Germany and came to this country when eight years of age. He was engaged in the manufacture of paper until his death in 1912 at the age of sixty-eight. His mother, who was Mary Henninger, was born in Michigan and is now a resident of Ypsilanti. Mr. Max is active in civic work. He is the president of the city council and serves as a director of the Board of Commerce. He is president of the Holy Name Society, a member of the Knights of Columbus, a member of Arbeiter Verein, and a member of the Elks. He married Catherine Terns, who was born and educated in Ypsilanti. To this union there are two children, both born in Ypsilanti. John is sixteen and Joe is fourteen. Both boys are in school. Bertha E. Muehlig has built up in Ann Arbor one of the finest dry goods and notion stores in the city. She is a native of Ann Arbor and one of which the city can be proud. Her parents, John F. and Amelia (Volz) Muehlig, were both born in Ann Arbor. The father, by profession, was an undertaker. Miss Muehlig attended the Parish school in the First ward, and the Ann Arbor high school. After the completion of her school work she went into the store of which she is now proprietor, then owned by Bach & Roath. She worked for this firm for about five years and at the end of that time the store was taken over by B. St. James. She continued then for fifteen more years. At that time she assumed the proprietorship of the business and has been successfully operating it for fourteen years. Miss Muehlig has built up a splendid business and is widely known and respected in the community which she serves. The store is located at the corner of South Main and Washington streets. George W. Millen is one of the outstanding business men of Ann Arbor, serving as a director and vice-president of the Farmers and Mechanics Bank, with which he has been connected for fifteen years. Mr. Millen was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, October 17, 1863, a son of Daniel S. and Lovicy (Booth) Millen, both of whom were natives of Connecticut. The father was a manufacturer of wagons in Ann Arbor and had a factory near the Huron river bridge and the Michigan Central depot. Later he became interested in the soap industry and turned his attention to this line of work. He died in 1910 while the death of the mother occurred in 1913. George W. Millen attended school in Ann Arbor after which he entered into the insurance business, a line of endeavor he followed for twenty-five years. He spent ten years in Detroit, one year in Montreal, three years in Pittsburgh and three years in Cleveland, returning to Ann Arbor in 1907. Mr. Millen organized the Dixie Portland Cement Company located at Chattanooga, Tennessee, and is a director and vice-president of the firm. He is a director and treasurer of the Clayton & Lambert Manufacturing Company of Detroit. He is president of the Manchester Apart 190 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY ment Company, president of the Wellesley Apartment Company, and also of the Beverley Apartment Company, all of Detroit. Mr. Millen married Miss Jessie C. Wetmore, and they have a daughter, Dorothy, who is now Mrs. Charles F. Lambert, vice-president and general manager of the Clayton & Lambert Manufacturing Company of Detroit. Mr. Millen is a life member of the Ann Arbor Golf and Outing Club and the Michigan Union, a member of the Detroit Athletic Club, the Barton Hills Country Club, the Ann Arbor Club, University Club, president of Camp Newton, a hunt club of northern Michigan, and a member of the Mountain Lake Golf Club and the Michigan-Florida Club, both located near Lake Wales, Florida. Mr. Millen is affiliated with all of the Masonic orders, is a member of the conservation commission of Michigan and is a member of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce; was chairman of the war board for Washtenaw county during the late war, was senator from the Twelfth District, 1919-20, and trustee of the Y. M. C. A., Ann Arbor. Ralph H. Miller, president of the Eberbach & Son Company, Inc., 200-6 East Liberty street, Ann Arbor, has spent almost his entire life in the manufacture of scientific instruments. He was born on a farm in Pennsylvania, March 2, 1872, the son of Reuben and Mary A. (Mohler) Miller, both natives of that state, the mother having been born in Cumberland county. After finishing the country school courses Mr. Miller attended the Franklin Institute at Philadelphia, where he acquired much of the scientific knowledge which has helped him in his profession. He came to Ann Arbor in 1893, as instrument maker for the University of Michigan. After remaining with the university nine years, he accepted a position with the Eberbach & Son Company as head of their manufacturing department. Here he demonstrated his fitness as a manufacturer and executive, and a few years later was advanced to the presidency of the firm, which position he now holds. His wife was Miss Lida V. White, an Ann Arbor girl. They have one daughter, Eleanor, who is a graduate of the University of Michigan. Mr. Miller is a member of all Ann Arbor branches of the Masonic order, Michigan Union, and is also affiliated with the Exchange club. Selby A. Moran, a resident of Washtenaw county for the past forty-two years, was born on a farm near Eldora, Iowa, in 1860. In 1852 his parents migrated to Iowa from Marion county, Virginia, now West Virginia, where his father, Selby B. Moran, was born in 1824 and his mother, Miranda Morgan, in 1831. Iowa was at that time very sparsely settled, except by Indians, buffalo and elk. His parents came to Detroit from Cleveland by boat and from there through Ann Arbor over what is now the Michigan Central Railroad, but which at that time was called the Michigan Railroad, which was then a strap iron rail affair and had been constructed only as far west as Michigan City, Indiana. From there an oldfashioned stage coach was the only conveyance available to Chi HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 191 cago. At that time what is now the greatest railroad center in the world had never heard the sound of a steam engine and consisted of a fort and a few hundred cabins, built on what was seemingly a bottomless swamp. From there they continued by stage to central Iowa, then a practically treeless plain. Eight years later the subject of this sketch was born. On a farm in a new country the family experienced all the hardships incident to pioneer life. Mr. Moran says that when he was a boy farmers had to haul their wheat sixty or seventy miles to market over roads which today would be considered impassable and then sell it for fifty or sixty cents a bushel and pay twenty-five cents a yard for calico and twenty cents a pound for a poor quality of brown sugar and everything else in proportion and pay interest on farm mortgages at nine or ten percent. When he was twenty years of age he developed a strong desire for a better education than was obtainable in the village school at Eldora. By teaching a district school at thirty dollars per month near his home for a year he saved enough to attend a small college at Oskaloosa, Iowa, two terms. Then by teaching for another year he was enabled to enter Drake University, which had just been established at Des Moines, Iowa. He was the first student that ever enrolled in this school, which has now grown to be a well-known institution. After spending a year at Drake he concluded that, if he were going to get a college education, it would be far better to attend a larger and better equipped school. About this time he happened to see a copy of an early edition of Chase's Recipe Book, which was then printed at Ann Arbor and which contained a page announcement of the University of Michigan. Being favorably impressed by this, he wrote for an announcement and later was able to come to Ann Arbor and enter the University. As his people at that time were unable to assist him, the only way it was possible to take the course at the University was to work his way through, as he had, when he arrived in Ann Arbor, only nine dollars and twenty-seven cents in his possession. But he knew what hard work was and was not the least bit afraid of it. Having learned shorthand before coming to the University, this opened a way for him. By doing shorthand and typewriting work for various University professors and in teaching these subjects to large classes of students and other young people he was able to make both ends meet and he was graduated with his class in June, 1888. Immediately after graduation he became interested with Kendall Kittredge in the publishing business, the firm carrying on a general publishing enterprise and in addition editing and publishing the Ann Arbor Register, a weekly Republican newspaper. Shortly after Mr. Moran started in the publishing business his partner became ill and soon after died. Not having the means to carry on the business alone, he was obliged to give up the general publishing end of the business and devote what time he could spare from his shorthand school work, which he continued to carry on, to editing and publishing the Ann 192 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Arbor Register. Mr. Moran continued his newspaper work until the era of the daily newspaper in this city, when he sold out to the Ann Arbor Courier, which was a little later merged with one of the local daily papers. About this time Mr. Moran took charge of the Department of Shorthand and Typewriting in the Ann Arbor high school. To this work he devoted his forenoons. His afternoons were given, to his private school work as were also his evenings. Some twelve years later he gave up his work in the high school with the idea of building up his private school as much as possible and then selling it, and retiring from business. This he did in 1921. In addition to his publishing business and school work Mr. Moran has been interested somewhat in building operations, one project being the erection of the Arcade theater. This was built in 1914. He conducted this house long enough to develop a good business when he leased it to the Butterfield interests. Mr. Moran still resides in Ann Arbor at 521 Walnut street. He was married in July, 1890, to Miss Flora Mabel Potter, of Niles, Michigan, who was graduated from the University in the same class with him. Two sons, Ernest P., aged thirty-two, and Hubert S., aged sixteen, and one daughter, Dorothy M., were born to them. The latter was graduated from the University in 1914 and was married to Glen L. Cowing, of Joliet, Illinois, in 1916, and died in 1919. At present Mr. Moran is not actively engaged in business. He devotes a large part of his time to community and church interests. He and Mrs. Moran had planned a two years' trip around the world when Mrs. Moran, after a short illness, died September 30, 1925. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Church of Christ of this city. He and Mrs. Moran were charter members of this church when it was organized in 1890. Oscar D. Morrill, proprietor of the Morrill typewriter and stationery store in the Nickels Arcade, Ann Arbor, was born in Nova Scotia, April 7, 1884. His father, David Morrill, also a native Nova Scotia, served as a sea captain under the British flag over fifty years. The Morrill family has been established in America since before Revolutionary times. During those trying days members of the family held varying views, some casting their lot with the revolutionists and others remaining loyal to the British flag. Some of the descendants of the rebel Morrills have been senators and representatives of the United States. The mother was, before her marriage to David Morrill, Miss Lillian Murphy, also of Nova Scotia. Oscar D. Morrill was graduated from Ann Arbor high school and attended the University of Michigan for three and onehalf years. He then entered the stationery, typewriter and supply business in which he has been unusually successful. He is a member of the Elks, all Masonic organizations, and the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. Alfred E. A. Mummery, M.D., was born February 26, 1883, in Ann Arbor, the son of Arthur J. and Elizabeth (Buckmann) Mummery, natives of County Kent, England, who came to the United HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 193 States soon after the birth of their fourth child. The first iron ships used on the Great Lakes were made in the yards in which Arthur Mummery worked in Detroit as a mechanical engineer. The family later moved to Ann Arbor, where he became associated with the Keck Furniture Company. His death occurred in 1918. His wife, who is now eighty-eight years old, is living in Ann Arbor. Dr. Mummery received his elementary and high school education in the schools of Ann Arbor, receiving his M.D. degree from the University of Michigan in 1906. He then entered private practice at Saline, Michigan, where he remained for ten years. Much of this period he was extremely busy, as he acted as health officer of that city in addition to caring for his private practice. In 1918 he gave up his offices there and came to Ann Arbor, where he entered into the general practice of medicine. He is a member of the Washtenaw County and Michigan Medical Associations, the Masons, the Knights of Pythias, the Kiwanis club and the Chamber of Commerce. He was married in 1909 to Matilda Blass. They have two children, Glen, aged fifteen years, and Sam, aged eleven years. Dean Wentworth Myers, M.D., prominent Ann Arbor physician, and nationally known in medical circles, was born in Ionia county, April 27, 1874. His parents were natives of New York state. The father was born in Genesee county, New York. in 1832, coming to Michigan at the age of twenty-three. He took over the land which his father had homesteaded from the government a few years before, and having cleared it of its timber, began farming. Interested in education, he organized the schools in his district and built the first schoolhouse. Sensing the need for religious education, he started a Sunday school which was the first in that section. His death occurred on August 23, 1915. His wife, Rebecca Jane Myers, nee Macomber, born in 1839, was also a native of Genesee county, New York state. Dr. Myers graduated from the Muir high school in 1893 and then taught in the country and village schools for two years. He then entered the University of Michigan and was graduated from the medical department in 1899. From that year until 1903 he served as an assistant in the department devoted to the study of diseases of the ear, eye, nose and throat, in the university. He went to Grand Rapids, Michigan, and began a private practice. Returning to the University of Michigan in 1907, he was appointed professor of otology, rhinology and laryngology, and later ophthalmology was added. The doctor continued in teaching until 1922, when he engaged in private practice in Ann Arbor. In August of the year 1900, he was married to Miss Louise Owen, of St. Albans, Vermont. To this marriage a daughter, Dorothy Louise, was born. Her mother passed away in 1904. On August 19, 1922, Dr. Myers married Miss Eleanor Sheldon, of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was made first lieutenant in the Medical Reserve Corps of the army in 1915 and expected to see foreign service, but was given an honorable discharge in 1917 to teach in the University of 194 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUTTY Michigan. Dr. Myers is a member of a number of medical societies in which he has taken an active interest. He is a member of the Washtenaw County Medical Society, American Homeopathic O. 0. and L. Society, and the American Institute of Homeopathy. He served for four years as the secretary of the Michigan State Homeopathic Society, and later as president for one year. He rendered the same service as member of the American O. 0. and L. Society. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgery and has served for two terms as member of its board of governors. His affiliations in fraternal and social organizations include membership in the Alpha Sigma fraternity, in several branches of the Masonic order and in the Elks. He is a member of the Rotary Club, the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce, the Barton Hills Country Club and the Washtenaw County Country Club. He is the author of a number of articles on medical subjects, the principal one being a report on catarrh operations. Dr. Myers has the distinction of being the first surgeon to establish the center of rotation of the eye-ball by a series of x-ray studies. Henry Wirt Newkirk is one of Ann Arbor's most distinguished citizens. During his life, through his active participation in public affairs, Mr. Newkirk has been able to make a real contribution to the community and the state in which he lives. He is a native of Michigan, born in Dexter, August 1, 1854. He is a descendant, on his father's side, of John Newkirk, a Revolutionary soldier from New York, and on his mother's side of the family from Nathaniel Fillmore, a Revolutionary soldier from Vermont. Nathaniel Fillmore was the great-grandfather of Millard Fillmore, ex-president, and the brother of Olive Fillmore, who was the grandmother of Henry Wirt Newkirk. Mr. Newkirk attended the Ann Arbor high school, and later was a student in the law department of the University of Michigan, from which he was graduated in 1879. Soon after this his life of public service began. From 1880 until 1882 he served as circuit court commissioner for Bay county. He was the prosecuting attorney for Lake county from 1888 until 1892. For the two years following, 1892 to 1894, he represented Lake and Osceola counties in the legislature. In the next four years he was cashier of the Dexter Savings Bank. From 1896 until 1900, Mr. Newkirk served as judge of probate for Washtenaw county, and from 1902 to 1903 was the treasurer of the city of Ann Arbor. He was a member of the legislature from Wastenaw county from 1907 until 1909, from 1909 to 1911, and from 1917 until 1919. He was with Senator Charles F. Townsend and Congressman L. C. Cramton in Washington during the four-year period from 1911 to 1915. Mr. Newkirk has been popular as a public speaker and has delivered over seven hundred lectures and addresses on various topics, in cities and villages of Michigan as well as in New York, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio and South Dakota. He married Eleanor J. Birkett, December 28, 1880, and to the union two children were born, Birkett Fillmore Newkirk and Nellie Newkirk Zimmerman. Mr. New HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 196 kirk is a Mason, member of the Shrine and a Knight Templar. He is a Son of the American Revolution, a Woodman, and past exalted ruler of the Ann Arbor Elks. Mr. Newkirk is retired from active business. Robert Norris, well-known civil engineer, was born in Anna, Illinois, October 24, 1886. His father, James Norris, was born in Scotland, and is now living in Illinois, at the age of eighty. He was in the hardware business, but is now retired. The mother, Emily (Davie) Norris, who is a native of Illinois, has reached the age of seventy-five. Mr. Norris came to Ann Arbor to attend the University of Michigan in 1907. He was graduated from the engineering department of that school in 1911. After leaving school he became connected with Gardner S. Williams in the capacity of supervising engineer. When the firm of Ayres, Lewis, Norris & May was established in 1923, Mr. Norris became one of the partners in the firm. Mr. Norris married Miss Lena Wilson, who was born in Illinois, and they have two children. Dorothy is fourteen and James Wilson is seven. Both children attend the public schools. Mr. Norris is the alumni representative of the Acacia fraternity, the president of the Barton Hills Country Club, a past president of the Kiwanis club, member of Ann Arbor club, and a member of the Chamber of Commerce. Manley Osgood, president and general manager of the Ann Arbor Construction Company, 221 Felch street, was born May 23, 1888, at Kent, Ohio, the son of James G. and Sarah (Neeley) Osgood. His father, a native of New York, was in the grocery business for a number of years and is now rounding out a quarter century's service with the gas company at Lima, Ohio. His mother was born in Pennsylvania. Manley Osgood, after graduating from high school at Lima, entered the University of Michigan school of engineering, where he was graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Civil Engineering. For the first six months after leaving college he was associated with Gardner S. Williams, severing this connection to go to Lima as assistant city engineer. From 1912 until 1918 he was city engineer of Ann Arbor. He also conducted his private engineering practice under the name of the Washtenaw Engineering Company. When the entry of the United States into the World war created an urgent need for competent engineers he gave up his lucrative business in Ann Arbor and accepted a position in the ship yards at Bristol, Pennsylvania. In May, 1919, having resigned from government service because of the end of hostilities, he became engineer of the Detroit Bureau of Research, where he remained until October, 1920. He then came to Ann Arbor to accept the presidency and management of the company he now heads. On July 30, 1913, he married Anna C. Hagen, daughter of a pioneer family of Washtenaw county. They have two children, Manley, Jr., and Virginia Ann. Mr. Osgood is interested in every movement for the betterment of Ann Arbor. He is past president of the Young Men's Christian Association 196 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY and a member of the Rotary club, the Ann Arbor club, the Huron Hills Golf club, and a life member of the Michigan Union. He is also affiliated with several scientific research organizations, among which are the American Society of Civil Engineers and the American Society for Municipal Improvements. Alvin H. Pommerning, of the firm of Pommerning & Bleass, real estate dealers, has a wide acquaintance among property owners in Washtenaw and surrounding counties. He is known as a conservative business man, who chooses to handle property of proven value rather than develop subdivisions or urge investment in other speculative projects. Born in Ann Arbor on May 18, 1893, through experience and study he has gained an accurate knowledge of real estate values in this city and surrounding territory. His father, August Carl Pommerning, -was born in Germany in 1861, coming to this city when twenty-eight years old and engaging in masonry construction. Mr. Pommerning and wife, who was Miss Matilda Vrook, also a native of Germany, reared a family of nine children. Their son Alvin, after leaving school, obtained a position in a hardware store, in which business he remained eleven years. He was then employed in the drafting department of the Crown Fender Company at Ypsilanti for a few months, his next venture being the establishment of a real estate office at that city. After four years in which he enjoyed more than ordinary success, he disposed of his business there and came to Ann Arbor, where he founded the firm of Pommerning & Bleass. Besides real estate, this company handles fire, life and casualty insurance. High-grade farm property is known as one of the specialties of this wide-awake concern. Mr. Pommerning is a Mason, a member of the Phoenix club, the Chamber of Commerce and the Real Estate Board. He was married in 1914 to Miss Helen Kuebler, of Freedom township, Washtenaw county. They have two children, Robert and Margaret. Harry O. Potter, president of Potter, Allshouse & Richards, Inc., was born at Potterville, Michigan, January 17, 1884, and is a son of John C. and Belle C. (Hartwell) Potter, both natives of Michigan. After graduating from the high school at Charlotte the son entered the University of Michigan, graduating from there in 1907 with the degree of Bachelor of Science. His first business venture was that of producing peppermint for oil distillation purposes, successfully conducting this line of enterprise for ten years. After a short stay in Mexico, where he was engaged in mining operations, he came to Ann Arbor and organized the company of which he has since been president. This company is successfully engaged in real estate and insurance with offices in the First National Bank building. Besides his affiliation with this organization he also holds membership in Barton Hills Country Club, Exchange club and Theta Delta Chi fraternity. In 1911 Mr. Potter was married to Miss Mabel M. Shepherd, of Charlotte, Michigan, and they have one child, a son, John S. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 197 Claramon L. Pray is the county clerk of Washtenaw county. He was born in Chestnut Hill, Connecticut, June 2, 1886. His father was a native of the same town, and was a grocer but retired from active business in later life. He died in 1914 at the age of seventy-four. Mr. Pray attended school in Brooklyn, Connecticut. He came to Ann Arbor in November of the year 1884, and began work in a dairy. His next work was in the grocery store of Dean & Company, where he continued for seven and one-half years. After which time he went into business for himself as a member of the firm of Miller & Pray. He was interested in this firm for fourteen years, but because of poor health was forced to retire from the business. Regaining his health, he went into the county service as a court officer. He spent a year and a half at this work, and then became deputy clerk. On January 1, 1925, he assumed his duties as county clerk. Mr. Pray married Miss Bertha Alber, of Ann Arbor. The Prays have one adopted daughter, Ninona, who is twenty-three years of age, and who is now Mrs. George Eberle. Mrs. Eberle has her home in Ann Arbor and is the mother of two children. Mr. Pray is well known, not only because of his public service but through his fraternal associations as well. He is a Mason and a member of the Odd Fellows. Jay G. Pray, judge of probate of Washtenaw county, is the son of one of Michigan's pioneers. His father, Joseph Pray, came to Michigan in 1825 at the age of two years. His father's family, on their arrival, opened a tavern in Superior township. Their son Joseph spent most of his life in farming. His wife, Elizabeth (Fenton) Pray, was a native of New York state. Jay G. Pray was born at Whitmore's Lake, Michigan, March 9, 1872. After his elementary schooling he attended a business college, and later entered the State Normal College at Ypsilanti. Having completed his college course, he went to work on his father's farm. Continuing the management of the farm, he served as supervisor of Northville township. Building and contracting next claimed his interest and it is in this business that Mr. Pray now derives the mainsource of his income. Interested in the educational development of the county, he served on the township school board for a number of years. In 1920 he was elected to the political position of county clerk. In April, 1925, he was elected judge of probate, which he now holds. In addition to his other duties, he serves as president of the Ann Arbor Finance Company, and is a director in the Chamber of Commerce. He is well known through his various fraternal and social connections. Mr. Pray is a Mason, a member of the Odd Fellows, the Maccabees, the Kiwanis club and the Huron Hills Country Club. He married Miss Anna Rane, of Whitmore's Lake, Michigan, and they have one son, Jay Rane Pray. In his public service, Mr. Pray has employed the same energy, ethics, and enterprise that have made for success in his private business. 198 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Earl G. Pruner, president of the Pruner Coal Company, in the city of Ann Arbor, was born in Lebanon, Virginia, July 24, 1887. His father, Joseph A. Pruner, was born in that state in 1862, and is a farmer, financier, loan broker and leader in Republican politics, having served as chairman of party conventions and caucuses. His mother, Mrs. Molly Jane Pruner, was a member of the Gibson family of Virginia. After completing his elementary and high school courses, Earl G. Pruner attended the private school, "Emery and Henry," of Virginia, the Virginia State Normal School and the Virginia Polytechnic Institute. His first position was with the Virginia Coal and Iron Company, as foreman of its coke yards. After holding this position for one year, he was employed in railroad office and accounting work for three years. Returning to the coal mining industry as a clerk, he worked his way upward, step by step, to superintendent, auditor and, finally, purchasing agent. His next venture was the purchase of the Clancy & McMillen coal yards at Ann Arbor, and the incorporation of the Pruner Coal Company, on January 1, 1921. This investment has proved to be a profitable one. The company's annual business each year has shown a substantial growth. Few coal merchants in Michigan have a better knowledge of the coal mining and marketing industry than Earl G. Pruner. He is an active member of the Michigan and Ohio Coal Dealers Association and the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. He was married February 25, 1911, at Big Stone Gap, in the Cumberland Mountains of Virginia. He has three children, William Joseph, Elise Marie and Jack Grey. Rudolph E. Reichert, cashier of the State Savings; Bank of Ann Arbor, secretary-treasurer of the Ann Arbor Asphalt Construction Company, director of the Michigan Surety Company, Lansing, the Buhr Machine Company and chairman of the Washtenaw County Republican Committee, former alderman and president of the common council of Ann Arbor, began his business career as a messenger in the Farmers and Mechanics Bank in 1904. From this humble beginning he rose rapidly, until today he holds a high place in the business and industrial affairs of Ann Arbor and Washtenaw county. His opinions and counsel are eagerly sought, not only by the young man just entering business or buying a home, but by the manufacturer and merchant of long experience. Born in Washtenaw county, November 13, 1887, all of his life has been spent in his native state, except for occasional business and pleasure trips. His father, Jacob Reichert, was born in Michigan in 1850, and was first a farmer, then a banker and finally a director of the German-American Savings Bank. His mother, Mrs. Mary (Bohnett) Reichert, was born in Lodi township, Washtenaw county. Rudolph E. Reichert, after finishing his studies at the Ann Arbor high school, accepted a position as messenger with the Farmers and Mechanics Bank, where he was advanced to the position of bookkeeper. On April 1, 1910, he resigned this position to accept another of the same nature with the American Savings HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 199 Bank of Lansing. A few months later, on October 1, he returned to Ann Arbor as teller for the German-American Savings Bank. Rapid promotion followed. On January 1, 1912, he was elected to the board of directors of the bank, and on January 1, 1914, he was made assistant cashier. When the German-American Savings Bank was consolidated with the State Savings Bank he became assistant cashier and a member of the board of directors of the new corporation, being advanced to cashier on January 14, 1925. His business activities have been wide and varied, and many industries in Ann Arbor today owe their existence to his assistance. He has been active in civic affairs and in politics, having been president of the common council of Ann Arbor five years and an alderman two years. He is the present chairman of the Washtenaw County Republican Committee, choosing to lend his influence to his party in that capacity rather than hold public office. In fraternal affairs he has also held a prominent place, being a member of the Masons, past master Fraternity Lodge No. 262, Knights Templar, the Shrine, as well as the Rotary Club and the Chamber of Commerce. His wife, Mrs. Christine (John) Reichert, daughter of the late Rev. S. A. John, of Ann Arbor, is a popular member of Ann Arbor's social set. Their three children-Margaret, born in May, 1917; Rudolph, E., Jr., born June, 1920; and Mary, born in June, 1922-give every promise of fulfilling the expectations of their admiring parents. Andrew Reule, well-known retired merchant of Ann Arbor, was born in Germany, March 25, 1863, a son of Michael and Christina Reule, both of whom are now deceased. Mr. Reule became interested in business in Ann Arbor in 1891, first under the name of Wadhams, Kennedy & Reule. Two years later there was a change and the name became Wadhams, Ryan & Reule. In 1907 a further change in the personnel of the store came and the firm became Reule, Conlin & Fiegel. From 1912 the name of the concern was Reule, Conlin & Company. In the latter year Mr. Reule closed out his interests and is now retired from active business. Mr. Reule was married to Miss Amelia Reule, who was a native of Ann Arbor, and they have one son, who served during the late war and was engaged in business with his father. Mr. Reule is interested in those things that pertain to the public welfare and serves on the board of public works and is a member of the Chamber of Commerce. Charles S. Roberts, of Pittsfield township, Washtenaw county, was born in Virginia, February 22, 1884, and was adopted at Toledo, Ohio, as a boy by Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Roberts, owners of the old Roberts homestead. Charles H. Roberts died in 1902 at the age of fifty-two years, having passed all his life on the farm on which he was born. His widow, Mrs. Alice (Hubbell) Roberts, survived him fifteen years. He was a son of W. H. L. Roberts, a native of New York, who was reared by his step-parents and whose name he incorporated into his own. W, H. L. Robert' 200 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY widow, Mrs. Elizabeth (Reeves) Roberts, survived him six years, her death having occurred when she was seventy-six years old, though her mother lived to be almost one hundred years old. W. H. L. Roberts was at one time the proprietor of the Half-way House on the Saline road, four miles southwest of Ypsilanti. This hostelry, in the days of stage coaches, was very popular, but with the coming of railroads it lost its prestige. When its proprietor united with the Presbyterian church he became an ardent advocate of temperance and ceased to operate his tavern as a public house. The eldest of W. H. L. Roberts' family, Spencer, died when he was twenty-one years old. George, the next son, was born in 1862, and now resides in Whitmore Lake. Charles S. Roberts, the subject of this sketch, married Clara Ziegler, daughter of Robert and Amelia Ziegler, of Ypsilanti. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts have two children, Charles Alfred and Alice Marie. William H. L. Rohde, dealer in coal and building supplies, 202 East Madison street, Ann Arbor, was born January 30, 1872, in this city. His father, Louis Rohde, a native of Germany, came to the United States in 1866 and founded the business which is now owned by his son. His wife, who was Magdalene Spathelf, a native of Washtenaw county, is enjoying excellent health at the family home in Ann Arbor, at the age of seventy-five years, her husband having died in 1907, at the age of sixty-three years. After graduating from high school, William H. Rohde entered his father's coal and wood yard, where he learned all details of the business. From time to time, under his father's supervision, he added new lines and departments to the firm's activities, assuming entire management of the yards at the death of his father. At the present time no firm in Ann Arbor has a larger stock of coal, lime, cement, tile, sewer pipe and other building materials than Mr. Rohde. He has served as alderman, though at the present time he has but little opportunity to take an active part in political campaign work because of the pressure of his business duties. He was married in 1899 to Miss Charlotte Reichnecker, of Ann Arbor. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Ann Arbor Coal Dealers Association and the Chamber of Commerce. H. D. Runciman, secretary and general manager of the Hoover Steel Ball Corporation of Ann Arbor, was born September 9, 1891, at Chelsea, Michigan, the son of James and Elizabeth (Hartigan) Runciman, both of whom were born in that city. He attended high school at Chelsea and then entered the Ferris Institute, where he received much of the education which has helped him in his successful business career. On leaving school he accepted a position in the accounting department of the Flanders Manufacturing Company of Chelsea and Pontiac, Michigan. It was in 1913 that he associated himself with the Hoover Steel Ball Company, his first position being in the sales and accounting departments. His rise was rapid. In 1915 he became assistant manager and auditor; in 1917 he was promoted to secretary, still retaining his position as HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 201 assistant manager; and in 1918 he was advanced to general manager and secretary of the corporation, which position he now holds. He was married in April, 1912, to Miss Edna Raftrey, of Chelsea. They have two children: Jeanne, born in September, 1913, and Nancy B., born in January, 1916. Mr. Runciman is a member and director of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce, and is a member of the Michigan Union. He is a member of the Blue Lodge and Chapter of the Masons and is prominent in the social events of the Barton Hills Country Club. He is also a leading member of the Ann Arbor lodge of Elks. George H. Sandenburgh, as city engineer, is well prepared for the position which he holds, because of his training and experience in engineering work. He began his education in Onekama, Michigan, where he attended the grade and high school. After preparatory wo'rk at Ferris institute, he entered Olivet college, where he studied for one year. Having chosen engineering as his life work, he enrolled in the engineering department of the University of Michigan and was graduated as a civil engineer in 1916. After graduation he began his work in the city engineer's office under Manley Osgood, who was the man in charge at that time. After a very practical experience covering two years, he was made city engineer on May 1, 1918, and it is in this capacity that he now so efficiently serves the city. Mr. Sandenburgh was born at Onekama, Manistee county, Michigan, October 18, 1888. His father, Henry, was a native of Germany and was a hotel keeper. He died in 1912 at the age of sixty years. The mother, Mary A. Kelly, was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and has reached the age of seventy-two. Mr Sandenburgh married Hazel M. Woodward, who is a native of Ypsilanti. They have one daughter, June Elizabeth, who was born January 17, 1923. Mr. Sandenburgh is connected with the Michigan Engineering Society and the American Society of Municipal Improvements. In addition to this he is a member of the various Masonic orders, the Exchange club, and the Chamber of Commerce G. Frank Schaefer, president of the Laboratory Apparatus Company, was born in Germany, April 20, 1881. His parents, Robert and Augusta Schaefer, remained in the old country. The father was in the grocery business. After he had completed his public school work, he attended a technical school in Germany. He arrived in the United States in 1911, coming here from Mexico, where he spent two years in laboratory work. Coming to Ann Arbor in 1915, he obtained a position with Eberbach & Sons Company, in their laboratory apparatus work. He continued in this line of work until 1921. In that year he organized the Laboratory Apparatus Company, and has served as the president of that business since its beginning. He married Anna Bruner, a native of Germany, and to this marriage two children have been born, a son, Oswald, who is a student at the University of Michigan, and a daughter, Augusta, who is a student in high school. Mr. Schaefer 202 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY is an Elk, and a member of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. He resides at 222 Wildwood avenue. Charles Albert Sink, Ann Arbor, Michigan, was born in the township of Western, Oneida county, New York, July 4, 1879. The following year his parents, Herman and Caroline Sink, moved to the township of Ogden, Monroe county, where they engaged in general farming. He attended the district school at North Chili until he was sixteen years of age when his parents retired from farming to live in the village of Churchville, where he attended and graduated from the local high school in 1898. While attending high school and during vacation periods he served several years as correspondent for the Democrat and Chronicle, a leading newspaper of Rochester, New York, and was employed in the general store of Briscoe & Randall. In 1900 he matriculated in the University of Michigan, and received the degree of A.B. in 1904, having supplemented study in the department of literature, science and arts, where he specialized in the classics, with certain studies in the law school. He defrayed his college expenses by engaging in various sorts of student employment and by traveling during summer vacations as salesman for the D. M. Ferry Seed Company of Detroit. Immediately upon graduation from the University he was elected secretary and business manager of the University School of Music and the Choral Union and May Festival Concert Series, and in this capacity has been instrumental in presenting to the Michigan public practically all of the world's greatest musical artists and organizations, including such stars as Caruso, Paderewski, Kreisler, Farrar, Mary Garden, Heifetz, Chaliapin, Galli-Curci, Schumann-Heink and others. For twelve years he served on the board of education of the city of Ann Arbor, part of the time as president. He also served as president of the Michigan Association of School Superintendents and School Board Members. For six years he was a member of the common council of the city of Ann Arbor and for four years a director of the Michigan League of Municipalities. For three years he served as secretary and manager of the same organizations, during which time he was instrumental in arranging annual conventions of several days' duration which brought together many of the state's leading municipal officers. For six years he also served on the board of directors of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. During the World war he was a member of the local war board and took, an active part in all patriotic movements. At the close of the war he was presented with a medal by the Belgian government in recognition of his services in behalf of the starving children of Belgium. In 1918 he was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives, where he served on the important committees of education and private corporations, etc. In 1920 he was elected to the Michigan Senate where he was chairman of the committee on education and a member of other important committees, including the committee on finance and appropriations. At the expiration of his term he refrained from HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 203 seeking re-election in order to comply with a gentleman's agreement of long standing between the Republican committees of Oakland and Washtenaw counties, comprising the twelfth district, whereby the senatorship is alternated between the counties at regular intervals. In 1924 at the request of citizens representing the two major political parties he was again re-elected to the House of Representatives where he served as chairman of the committee on education and on the judiciary committee. As a state official his services have been conspicuous in the field of educational legislation and in the fostering of sane, progressive legislation of a general nature. In 1923 he was appointed by Governor Alex. J. Groesbeck a member of the Mackinaw Island State'Park Commission, where he served until his re-election to the legislature, when in compliance with the state constitution he was obliged to resign in order to accept a seat in the legislature. He is a member of the board of directors of the Farmers and Mechanics Bank, the Ypsi-Ann Land Company, Investment Associates, all of Ann Arbor, and other business enterprises, and a member of the national council of the National Economic League. He is a Congregationalist, a Mason, a charter member of the Ann Arbor Rotary Club, a member of the Ann Arbor Club, a charter member of Acacia and of Phi Mu Alpha, college fraternities. In June, 1923, he was married to Alva Joanna Gordon, of Holly, Michigan, the ceremony being performed by the late President Marion LeRoy Burton at the president's residence on the date of Mrs. Sink's graduation from the University. Emory W. Sink, M.D., prominent in medical circles, was born in North Chili, New York, October 14, 1887. His father, Herman Sink, a native of Germany, came to the United States at the age of seven and spent his life farming. His mother, Caroline (Gleasman) Sink, was born in New York state. Dr. Sink received his education at the University of Michigan, entering that institution in 1907. In 1911 he received the degree of Bachelor of Arts, the degree of Master of Science in 1915 and, in 1920, the degree of Doctor of Medicine. He was an instructor in human anatomy for two years and spent six years teaching zoology. At the present time he is instructor in hygiene and physician to the health service of the University of Michigan, and has served in that capacity since 1919. He was married June 18, 1913, to Miss Maude Ford, of New York state. Dr. Sink's fraternal associations are large. He is the worshipful master of Masonic Lodge No. 262, member of the Kiwanis club, a member of the Sigma Xi, honorary scientific fraternity, a member of Phi Chi (medical fraternity), and for four years acted as national president of the Phi Sigma biological society, and is a Fellow of the American Medical Association. J. J. Sinn, president and treasurer of the Ann Arbor Automatic Products Company, manufacturers of screw machine products, was born on January 31, 1889, in Ohio, the son of W. G. and Margaret E. (Gosborn) Sinn, both of whom were natives of the Buckeye 204 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY state. The father, who bought and sold timber in Ohio and southern states, died in 1920 at the age of sixty years. J. J. Sinn's first position after completing his high school course was with the R. G. Dun Company's office at Toledo, Ohio, where he gained much valuable experience during the ten years he was stationed in that city. His next venture was with the Defiance Screw Products Company, of Defiance, Ohio, where he became secretary of the corporation. Selling his interest there in April, 1923, he came to Ann Arbor to start a small factory of his own. Since that time, in the short period of two and one-half years, he has increased his business to such an extent that fifty employes are required to manufacture the special screw machine products sold by his company. Paul Bertchsy, who was made secretary of the company when it was incorporated in 1923, is Mr. Sinn's chief assistant in the management of the factory. Mr. Sinn was married in June, 1914, to Miss N. C. Fox, of Toledo. They have two children, Jack Henry and Richard William. J. J. Sinn is active in all of Ann Arbor's civic and welfare projects. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, the chapter, blue lodge and commandery of the Masons, and the Elks. He is also a member of the Toledo club, Toledo, Ohio. Howard Leslie Spedding, popular photographer, was born in Canada, October 22, 1878. He is the son of Thomas Spedding, also a native of Canada, and a building contractor. Mr. Spedding entered the photography business in Ann Arbor in 1919. His first year was very discouraging, but since 1920 he has doubled his business, and is doing a great deal of the work in Ann Arbor. He married Miss Mary Elizabeth Marshall. They have one son, Frank Harold, a graduate in the engineering department of the University of Michigan, who is now teaching assistant in the University of Michigan. Hazel Ethel, a daughter, will graduate from the University of Michigan with the class of 1926. Mr. Spedding is. a Mason and a member of the Kiwanis club. Clinton L. Starbuck, proprietor of two of Ann Arbor's most popular restaurants, is a native of Indiana. He was born in Henry county of that state, December 23, 1882. His father was born in North Carolina and has reached the age of seventy-eight. The father, Benjamin F. Starbuck, has been a farmer all of his life. His wife, Sarah (Camplin) Starbuck, mother of Clinton L., was also of North Carolina. She passed away in 1890. Mr. Starbuck married Ethel Ellington, of Henry county, Indiana. They have one daughter, Marian, aged fifteen years, who was born in Dayton, Ohio. She attends the Ann Arbor high school. Mr. Starbuck has been interested in the restaurant business all of his life. He came to Ann Arbor on August 21, 1920. His two restaurants are well equipped and homelike and the food and service are excellent. One restaurant is located at 601 East Liberty street and the other at 703 Packard street. Mr. Starbuck is a Mason. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 205 Frederick H. Stegath is one of the younger successful business men of Ann Arbor and is owner and manager of the Goodyear Drug Store, one of the oldest established enterprises of its kind in this part of the country. Mr. Stegath was born in Escanaba, Michigan, of Charles and Pauline Stegath, and in that city acquired his early education, being a graduate of Escanaba high school. He then entered the University of Michigan, where he received the degree of Pharmaceutical Chemist. December 8, 1920, he purchased the Goodyear Drug Store of which extended mention is made on other pages of this volume. June 6, 1923, Mr. Stegath married Miss Bernice Matice, a native of Kent county, Michigan, and they have a son, Frederick H., Jr. Mr. Stegath takes commendable interest in civic and fraternal affairs and his cooperation can always be had in all matters pertaining to the welfare of the community. He is a Mason, belonging to Delta Lodge, F. & A. M., of Escanaba, and a member of the Washtenaw chapter and commandery of Ann Arbor. He also has membership in the Knights of Pythias, Acacia fraternity, Elks and the Huron Hills Country Club. In business circles his membership includes the Chamber of Commerce, Michigan State Pharmaceutical Association and National Association of Retail Druggists. In politics he is a Republican and in religion a Presbyterian. Mrs. Stegath is a member of the Methodist church. Eugene Stein, head of the Ann Arbor Steam Dye Works, is also a member of the board of directors of the Wire Products Company of Ann Arbor. He was born in the city on June 2, 1891, the son of George Fred and Mary (Heinick) Stein, both of whom were born in Washtenaw county. The father, who had been in the meat business here many years, died on February 23, 1919. After attending school Eugene Stein entered his father's store, learning the details of the meat business and remaining in this industry until 1907, when he started the Ann Arbor Steam Dye Works, of which he is still head. He was married, in 1914, to Miss Lorena M. Bissinger, of Washtenaw county. To this union were born two children, Gene Marie and Frederick Eugene. Though still a young man, Mr. Stein has won a substantial place in the business world. Among his business connections is the Wire Products Company, of which he is vice-president and director. He is also a director of the Ann Arbor Finance Company, and takes a leading part in the activities of the Kiwanis club and the Michigan Cleaners and Dyers Association and the Master Cleaners and Dyers Association. Fraternally he is an Elk, Knights of Pythias and a Mason. Roe B. Stevens, proprietor of the Lake House hotel at Whitmore Lake, was born in that historic building in 1886, the son of Albert Stevens, Jr., and the grandson of Albert Stevens, Sr., the man who erected the hotel ninety years ago. Albert Stevens, Sr., who was a manufacturer of fanning mills, which were used to remove chaff and impurities from wheat, oats and other cereals, built both the Clifton and Lake House hotels and was their pro 206 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY prietor until he died. These hostelries were favorite stopping places of lumbermen, farmers and hunters many years ago, and at times Albert Stevens was forced to permit guests to sleep on bunks made on the floor, so crowded were his hotels. Farmers and other persons from Ohio during the winter months when sleighing was satisfactory, passed through Whitmore Lake with loads of lumber obtained in the lumber regions north of the village. Students from Ann Arbor also frequented the hotels, and often gave balls and dinner and dancing parties there. It is said that attendance at some of the larger balls reached a total of two hundred and fifty couples. Famous orchestras supplied the music for the dances, giving the Stevens inns a reputation that is still maintained. Albert Stevens was a noted hunter and killed many deer in his favorite stalking grounds, now the site of the village of Fowlerville. In the Buckeye war he was commissioned a captain by Governor Mason, and his brothers also took an active part in the political and civil events of that time. W. C. Stevens, as a second lieutenant, helped organize the Third Michigan Volunteer Cavalry, in which he served during most of the Civil war, though he later became an officer in the Ninth cavalry regiment. He retired with the rank of major and became auditor general of the state of Michigan. His death occurred at Detroit, after he had reached a ripe old age. Albert Stevens, Sr., died in 1867, at the age of sixty-seven. His son Albert was born at Whitmore Lake in 1857. After spending some time in the grocery business at Edmore he removed to North Dakota. In 1884 he returned to Whitmore Lake and purchased the popular Lake House, which he managed until after the death of his wife. The history of Whitmore Lake is an entertaining one. About one hundred years ago John B. Whitmore, accompanied by Jonathan Stratton, a surveyor, was seeking agricultural lands in this section of Michigan, and camped one night on the site of an old Indian village on the crystal lake whose waters reflected the green foliage of the virgin forest. From that day the lake bore the name Whitmore, and when settlers populated the surrounding region the lake became a favorite outing place. When the first hotel was built it formed a nucleus for a little village which is now dotted with beautiful summer homes and is the mecca of persons who seek a pleasant social center in which to spend their summer months amid the diversions of sailing, bathing, dancing and fishing. Merle Charles Stitt was born in Apollo, Pennsylvania, November 25, 1894. During the late World war, Mr. Stitt served as a sergeant in the 126th Engineers in France. After the signing of the armistice he attended the University of Toulouse in the south of France, the University of Michigan and he was graduated in 1918 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. The degree of Bachelor of Law was conferred on him in 1922. In October of that year he was admitted to the bar in Bay county, Michigan, and began his practice there. He came to Ann Arbor in June, 1923, and in HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 207 November of that year was appointed public administrator for Washtenaw county by the attorney general of Michigan. He was elected circuit court commissioner and has held that office since January 1, 1925. Mr. Stitt's father, Meredith C. Stitt, is a native of Pennsylvania and is connected with the Allegheny Steel Company, of that state. The mother, Juliet (Henry) Stitt, is also a native of Pennsylvania. In 1920 Mr. Stitt married Mrs. Zee (Leland) Stitt. She has two children, William F. and Katherine F. Leland. Mr. Stitt is a Mason, a member of the Eastern Star and the Ann Arbor Lawyers Club, and belongs to the American Legion. Mr. Stitt is a man of unusual ability and in the discharge of his public duties has been found to be both thorough and efficient. Frank A. Stivers, attorney, was born at Liberty, Indiana, September 6, 1868. His father, Charles W. Stivers, was in the newspaper business at Liberty for more than fifty years as publisher of the Herald and was prominent in politics in the Hoosier state. His mother was Laura E. Freeman, of Union county, Indiana. After graduation from high school at Liberty, Indiana, Frank A. Stivers entered the literary department of the University of Michigan in 1890 and was a student in the literary and law departments for the period of five years, but not continuously, receiving his law degree in 1895, and his literary degree in 1897. He was admitted to the bar in 1895 and for some years was engaged in the practice with Michael J. Lehman under the firm name of Lehman & Stivers. Later he established himself in his own office. In 1907 and 1908 he was associated in the practice with Carl T. Storm under the firm name of Stivers & Storm. He was appointed city attorney of Ann Arbor in 1905 and served for two years. He is vice-president and director of the Hoover Steel Ball Company, a director of the First National Bank of Ann Arbor and has served as an officer and director of several other Ann Arbor corporations. He is a Mason, a member of the Ann Arbor club, the Barton Hills Country Club, the Ann Arbor Lawyers Club, the Washtenaw County Bar Association, the Michigan Bar Association, the Commercial Law League of America, and the American Bar Association. He was the first president of the Ann Arbor Lawyers Club and served for two terms. He is a member of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce and other community organizations. He was married June 22, 1898, to Miss Margaret McKay, of Liberty, Indiana, with whom he lived in perfect felicity until her death, July 4, 1923. For a number of years he has been associated in the practice of law with William M. Laird under the firm name of Stivers & Laird. Joseph C. Hooper has been associated with this firm for the past two years. Since his admission to the bar in 1895 Mr. Stivers has been actively and continuously engaged in the practice of the law and has been employed in much of the important litigation in the courts of Washtenaw county. 208 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Elmer M. Stofflet is the proprietor of the College Inn, one of Ann Arbor's popular restaurants, located on South State street. He is also owner of the Home Radio Sales Company, which is located on Main street. He was born in Monee, Illinois, November 9, 1875. His father, Francis Stofflet, a bazaar dealer and newspaper man, was a native of the Keystone state. He died in Ann Arbor, March 12, 1912. His wife was Mary A. Sprague, who was born in Rochester, Michigan. She died in Ann Arbor, January 14, 1923. Both father and mother lived to the age of seventy-one. Mr. Stofflet was married to Miss Metta M. Owen, who was born in Tecumseh, Michigan, in 1878. One child born to this union died in infancy. Carl H. Stuhrberg, an attorney, maintains offices at 7 Ann Arbor Savings Bank building. He is the son of Frederick and Mary Stuhrberg, nee Winkehaus, and was born in Brighton, Michigan, November 30, 1895. The father was interested in several business enterprises in Brighton. He was a hotel man, conducted a livery stable, and sold buggies and farm implements and also engaged in farming. He died in 1907 at the age of forty-two years. The mother, who is a native of Germany, is a resident of Ann Arbor. Carl H. Stuhrberg had his early education in Brighton, graduating from the high school there in 1912. He was graduated from Adrian college in 1916 with the Bachelor of Arts degree and from the University of Michigan in 1919 with the degree of Bachelor of Law. He was admitted to the bar in that year and began his practice of law with F. E. Jones. This partnership continued until 1924, when he established offices for himself. He served in the army during the World war and at the close of the war was stationed in an officers' training camp. On November 15, 1922, he was married to Miss Emily L. Yanson, of Ann Arbor. They have one daughter, Harriet Marie. Mr. Stuhrberg is well known through his fraternal connections. He is a member of Fraternity Lodge, F. & A. M., Washtenaw Chapter No. 6, R. A. M., the local chapter of the Grotto, the Elks, the Knights of Pythias, and the Odd Fellows. He also is a member of the Ann Arbor Lawyers Club, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Kiwanis club. Mark B. Sugden, proprietor of the Sugden pharmacy, 1112 South University, and president of the common council of Ann Arbor, was born in Oakland county, Michigan, December 31, 1889, the son of M. Luther and Eleanor (MacGowen) Sugden. The father, who was born in Michigan in 1851, was a farmer and fruit grower who served many years as a member of the Oakland county board of education. He is now retired and living in Ann Arbor. Mark B. Sugden received his early education in the schools of Oakland county, attending high school first in Pontiac and then in Ann Arbor. On completion of his high school education he entered the University of Michigan, where he received the degree of Pharmaceutical Chemist. Mr. Sugden then worked in various drug stores in this and other cities, spending one year in Moscow, Idaho. He returned to Ann Arbor in 1910, and on February 1, 1913,' he HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 209 opened his own drug store on South State street, which he conducted in a highly successful manner for ten years. In 1923 he obtained the present site of the Sugden pharmacy, and after purchasing new fixtures and equipment he moved his stock of goods there. On November 8, 1910, he married Miss Bessie Jeneaux, of Livingston county. They have but one child, Marcel J. Mr. Sugden was elected president of the common council after having served seven years as a member of that body. He is a member of both the Blue Lodge and Chapter of the Masonic order, the Elks and the Knights of Pythias, having held all offices in the Ann Arbor lodge of the latter organization. He is also a member of the Chamber of Commerce. John E. Swisher, at the head of the Swisher Wholesale Grocer Company of Ann Arbor, was born in La Cygne, Kansas, August 23, 1883, a son of A. D. and Julia V. (Hungerford) Swisher, the former of whom was born in Ohio, while the latter is a native of Pennsylvania. They are now residents of Ann Arbor. After leaving high school John E. Swisher attended a business college before entering the Iowa State College at Ames, Iowa, where he specialized in business subjects. His first position after leaving school was as a traveling salesman, an accupation which he followed for several years. He next engaged as a manufacturer of confections at Waterloo, Iowa, in which he met with substantial success. In 1916 he came to Ann Arbor, where with his brother, Harold L., now deceased, he established the Swisher Grocer Company. Mr. Swisher has been successful in his business ventures and his standing in business circles is proven in the fact that he is a director of the Ann Arbor Savings Bank and the Ann Arbor Finance Company. He is a past president of the Kiwanis club, and holds membership in the Chamber of Commerce and the Elks Lodge. Mr. Swisher married Miss Elizabeth Kirkpatrick, of Waterloo, Iowa, and they have two children, John, Jr., and Elizabeth. John E. Travis, retired from active business, is one of those men whose interests, though varied, are invariably attended with a large amount of success. He was born in Cooper township, Kalamazoo county, August 10, 1855. He lived in Cooper until he was twenty years of age. He then married and bought a farm from his father. He and his wife lived on the farm for seventeen years. He wished to retire, and moved to the little town of Plainwell with that intention. He did not carry out his plan for he was called to Grand Rapids to the United States court. After his service there, he accepted a position as business manager of the R. A. Beal estate in Ann Arbor. Here he became active in political, civic and religious work. He served as city treasurer and as secretary and treasurer of the Sanitary Milk Company. He was treasurer of the Ann Arbor high school for eight years and served as president of the Young Men's Club of the Congregational church. After this he went to Detroit and took charge of Grinnell Brothers Real Estate Company. After a service of two years in 210 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Detroit, he was sent to manage the business of the company in Pontiac. While in Pontiac he made many friends and was a member of the Pontiac Business Men's Club. At the request of the Detroit manager for Swift & Company, Mr. Travis spent two years in re-routing their city salesmen. Mr. Travis is now interested in real estate here and in Wall street, New York. He is a member of the Young Men's Club, the Masonic order, the Maccabees and the Chamber of Commerce. He married Calista Philena Sherwood, who was born in Kalamazoo county. To this union there were born three children, two boys and one girl. DeHull N. Travis, prominent lawyer, formerly of Flint, Michigan, is forty-five years of age, now a member of the firm of O'Brien-Travis of Detroit. He is well known because of his public service. He was secretary to former Governor Chase S. Osborne, and served with him for half of his term. He was then appointed chairman of the state pardon board. During the late war he served as head of camp activities, with his headquarters at the Lambs Club, New York. It was his duty to furnish speakers and entertainers for the men in camp. He married Catherine Crowley, daughter of Mr. Crowley, of the firm of Crowley-Milner of Detroit, in June of 1924. His sister, Ella Viola, was born in Ann Arbor. She married Professor Aiton of the University of Michigan, in June, 1923. The other son, John, who was born in Cooper, died in 1887 at the age of five years. Victor E. Van Ameringen was born in Amsterdam, Holland, June 7, 1876, and came to the United States in 1898. Desirous of having an education, he worked for a time to obtain the money for a year's schooling at Yale University. He came to Ann Arbor and graduated from the University of Michigan in 1905 as a Bachelor of Law. In that same year he was admitted to the bar and the federal court at Detroit and started his practice in Ann Arbor. He has always taken an active interest in politics and is a member of the Republican party. In 1916 he was a delegate to the Republican national convention in Chicago. This year will see his retirement as chairman of the Republican county commission. Mr. Van Ameringen is a Mason. a member of the Ann Arbor Lawyers Club, a member of the Michigan State Bar Association, a member for life of the Michigan Union, and a member of the Chamber of Commerce. He also holds membership in the Huron Hills Country Club and is a communicant of the First Methodist Episcopal Church. On July 27, 1911, he married Miss Ethel L. Cleaver, of Ann Arbor. Their daughter Louise was born January 31. 1914. Coming from across the sea, Mr. Van Ameringen has had many difficulties to overcome. His persistence and his ability have gone far in making for his success. John E. Vanderweele, president of the Ann Arbor Lumber Company, was born December 10, 1892, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. the son of Abraham and Pauline (Van Stelle) Vanderweele, natives of Holland, who came to Grand Rapids to enter masonry construc HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 211 tion work. After graduating from the Grand Rapids high school, young Vanderweele entered the lumber business in a minor position. He was employed in various capacities, which enabled him to become familiar with all phases of the lumber industry. Though yet a young man, he is regarded as an authority on lumber values. He was a member of the United States Marines during the World war, serving eleven months in France. In 1922 he came to Ann Arbor and organized the company of which he is president and owner. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce. August 8, 1925, Mr. Vanderweele married Miss Svea Violet Thor, of Chicago. Hugh E. Van de Walker is the mayor of the city of Ypsilanti. He is aptly qualified for that position, being a man of strong character, good judgment and unusual business ability. He not only serves as mayor of the city, but is actively connected in a number of business enterprises. He is the state agent of the Peoria Life Insurance Company, president of the Wolverine Forged Drill Company, president of the Peoples National Bank of Ypsilanti, president of the Ypsilanti Hotel Company, and president of the Washtenaw County Discount Corporation. Mr. Van de Walker is a native of Kalamazoo county, born July 15, 1876. He came to Ypsilanti in 1900. His father, Arthur, was born in the same county and was a railroad man. He died in 1912 at the age of fifty-eight. His mother, who was Jeanette Huntley, before her marriage, is sixty-four years of age and is living in Ypsilanti. Mr. Van de Walker married Abbey Vought, who was born in Ypsilanti. Two children have blessed their married life. They are Grandon V., who is fourteen, and Lewis Edward, who is seven. Both boys attend the normal school in Ypsilanti. Interested in welfare work, the mayor serves as president of the Michigan Society for Crippled Children, and is treasurer of the International Society for Crippled Children. He is a Mason, a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Rotary club, the Detroit Athletic Club and the Board of Commerce. Mr. Van de Walker worships at the Episcopal church. Charles Wahr, reliable and progressive shoe merchant of Ann Arbor, operates the business established by his father in 1893. He is a native of Washtenaw county as was his father, who died in 1916. His mother, too, was of the same county. Minnie (Burkhart) Wahr was born in Saline. Her death came in. 1890. Charles Wahr was born in Ann Arbor, March 25, 1886. He completed his education in the public schools and then went into his father's business. His wife is Genevieve E. Wahr, nee Stebbins. There are no children. Mr. Wahr is a member of the Elks, Chamber of Commerce, the Association of Credit Men and is a director of the Arch Preserver Shoe Dealers Association. Marcus L. Ward is the dean of the dental school of the University of Michigan, and is particularly well known through his affiliations with various associations in the interests of the profession. He is connected with the American Dental Association, the American Chemistry Association, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and is a Fellow of the American College of 212 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Dentists. Dr. Ward is vice-president of the Dental Educational Council of America, and has been president, in 1924 and 1925, of the American Association of Dental Faculties. Dr. Ward was born at Howell, Michigan, August 5, 1875. His father, Albert'F. Ward, is a native of Livingston county, Michigan. He is a veteran of the Civil war, and is a retired farmer. He has served as supervisor of his township and as justice of the peace. He has reached the age of seventy-eight. The mother, Sarah M. Kirkland, was born in England. She died in 1920 at the age of sixty-seven. Dr. Ward married Miss Millie J. Carpenter, who was born in Howell, also. They have no children. Dr. Ward attended Fenton Normal School and then entered the University of Michigan in September of 1899. He received the degree of D.D.S. in 1902 and the D.D.S.C. degree in 1905. In 1902 he went into clinical work at the University Dental School and was made a professor in 1908. In 1916 he was given the position as dean of the dental school and has served in that capacity since. He is a Mason, a member of the Michigan Union, the University club, the American Association of University Professors, and is a member of the Delta Sigma Delta and Sigma Xi fraternities. Charles L. Washburne, M.D., 225 East Liberty street, Ann Arbor, was born September 27, 1887, in Ithaca, New York, the son of Joel Hodges and Mary A. (Dart) Washburne, farmers. After graduating from the normal college at Cortland, New York, Mr. Washburne entered Cornell University. After completing one year's studies at that institution he entered the University of Michigan, where he obtained his M.D. in 1908. He then spent a year as interne at the University hospital, being promoted to assistant surgeon at the expiration of this period. Two years later, his ability having been recognized, he was made assistant professor in surgery at his Alma Mater. He remained in this position seven years, during which he conducted much research and experimental work which has marked him as a leader in his profession. While he enjoyed his work at the university, he felt the need of a larger income than that afforded those persons in the teaching profession, and he resigned his chair to enter private practice in Ann Arbor. His wife, whom he married in 1910, soon after completing his interneship, was Nina Harvey, of Morenci, Michigan. Dr. Washburne is a Mason, a member of the Washtenaw County and Michigan Medical Associations and the American College of Surgeons. During the World war he was an officer at Fort Benjamin Harrison. Victor Wedemeyer is the owner of the West Side Custom Mill, located at 400 West Huron street, Ann Arbor, Michigan. He was born in Washtenaw county, January 22, 1896. His parents are also natives of the same county. His father, Aaron Wedemeyer, was for many years a farmer and is seventy years of age. His mother, Regina (Heimendinger) Wedemeyer, has reached her sixtieth year, and lives retired. Mr. Wedemeyer attended the public schools of Ann Arbor, and after he had completed his education, began work with Mack & Company. His desire for a larger career HISTORY OF WASHTENA-W COUNTY 213 led him to go into business for himself, in which he continued for a time. Five years ago he established his present business enterprise of which he is the sole owner. He does custom grinding and is interested in the feed business. He was married to Miss Hilda Keppler. To this marriage two children have been born. They are, Norbert, seven years of age, and June, who is four. Both children were born in Ann Arbor and attend the public schools. John A. Wessinger, M.D., has been a practicing physician in Ann Arbor for about thirty-five years. In this time he has built up a large practice and has made many friends in the community. Dr. Wessinger was born in Howell, Michigan, August 6, 1860. His parents were natives of Bavaria. His father, born in 1831, was a farmer. He died in Howell in 1915. His mother, Katherine (Altman) Wessinger, died in 1908. Dr. Wessinger graduated from the Detroit College of Medicine in 1882, and began the practice of medicine in Howell. He continued there for nine years before coming to Ann Arbor. At present he serves as the city health officer. He is a member of the Washtenaw County Medical Association, the Michigan State Medical Society, is a Fellow of the American Medical Association, and a member of the Chamber of Commerce. His wife is Mrs. Alice B. (Walker) Wessinger. There are seven children in the Wessinger family. Louis S. Wessinger, born in 1882, is a minister in the North Alabama Conference. Harry T., who was born in 1884, lives in Dearborn, Michigan. He is an architect with the firm of Smith, Hinchman & Gilles. Mary I. was born March 30, 1893. She is the anesthetist for Harper hospital in Detroit. Lois Helena Bond, who was born April 17, 1895, lives in Texas. Her husband, Mr. Bond, is the Texas state forester. John Leslie, who is a sophomore in the literary department of the University of Michigan, was born on the 5th of June in 1905. Francis Eliot Wessinger is a sophomore in the Ann Arbor high school. The date of his birth was July 26, 1908. Glenn Joseph, who was a civil engineer, died in Birmingham, Alabama, August 9, 1909. Kenneth N. Westerman, who is connected with the New York Life Insurance Company, is prominent not only in his profession, but in musical circles in Ann Arbor as well. He was born in Adrian, Michigan, May 13, 1889, a son of W. S. and Emma (Sizer) Westerman, the former a native of Riga, Michigan, while the latter was born in Massachusetts. The father is a lawyer, and both parents still reside at the old homestead at Adrian, having celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary. Kenneth Westerman has a Master's degree from the University of Michigan in musical research and acts as musical critic for the Ann Arbor Times News. He is also a graduate of the University School of Music and serves as president of the Alumni association. He is a member of the board of directors of the local Y. M. C. A., a member of the Kiwanis club, the Chamber of Commerce, a member of Fraternity Lodge No. 262, F. & A. M., Sinfonia, and Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternities. He directs the Wesleyan Guild Orchestra of university students. 214 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Mr. Westerman married Miss Rosie Kidman, of Adrian, Michigan,. a graduate of the Adrian College Conservatory. They have two children, daughters: Alberta Jean, aged seven, and Miriam Rose, five years of age. Harry E. Westgate, head of the Westgate Manufacturing Company, makers of lamps and shades, and the Westgate Furniture Shops, retail furniture, was born November 9, 1885, at Appleton, Wisconsin, the son of Forest E. and Julia (Nelson) Westgate, both natives of Wisconsin. His father, who died in 1892, was half owner of a large chain of grocery stores in that state. After finishing high school, Mr. Westgate entered Lawrence college, at Appleton, Wisconsin, taking a position as traveling salesman immediately after finishing his course at that institution. In 1914 he moved to Detroit, Michigan, where he founded the Westgate-Pringle company, which later became the Westgate Furniture Company, Inc. As head of this concern he sought a new and more advantageous location for his factory, and in 1920 he obtained a site in Ann Arbor and moved his materials and equipment here. His wife, whom he married in 1913, was Theo Hasse, of Detroit. They have four children, Suzanna May, Yvonne Elizabeth, Theo Jane and Nancy Annette. Mr. Westgate is a Mason, a member of the Barton Hills Country Club, the Michigan Union and the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. Leslie A. Wikel is well known to Ann Arbor people as the manager of Store Number Two of the Calkins & Fletcher Drug Company, and as a vice-president of the organization. Mr. Wikel was born in Union City, Indiana, in 1884. His father, Wiley, who is a resident of Fort Wayne, is a contractor, and has reached the age of sixty-five years. Lola (Denny) Wikel, the mother, born in Brice, Indiana, died in 1897 at the early age of thirty-two years. Leslie A. Wikel is a graduate of the pharmacy department of Purdue University. He graduated in 1909 with the Ph.C. degree. He was employed in Lafayette, Indiana, for two years, then came to Ann Arbor in 1912. After coming to this city, he engaged in the drug business with Mr. Goulding. The partnership was known as Goulding & Wikel. They operated the University Avenue Pharmacy on University avenue. In 1916, he became connected with the firm which he now serves. Mr. Wikel is a member of the Exchange club, the Chamber of Commerce, the Ann Arbor Golf Club, and is chairman of the executive committee of the Ann Arbor branch of the Detroit Automobile Club. Gardner S. Williams, widely known in engineering circles, was born in Saginaw, Michigan, October 22, 1866, the son of Stewart B. Williams and Juliet Williams, nee Ripley. The father was born in Saginaw, Michigan, September 20, 1836, and was engaged in the lumber business. The grandfather, Gardner D. Williams, was the first permanent white settler in Saginaw, the first mayor of that city, and was the first man to represent that district in the Territorial Legislature. He also served on the state canal commission during its existence. His father, Captain Oliver B. Williams, was HISTORY OP WASHTETNAW COUNTY 215 commander of the good ship "Friends Goodwill," which was captured by the British at Mackinac during the War of 1812. The name of the ship was changed to "Little Belt," and was recaptured by Perry at the Battle of Lake Erie. Oliver B. Williams settled in Detroit in 1814 and one year later moved to Pontiac, which was his home until his death. In 1827 Gardner D. Williams with a wife and one son moved to Saginaw. Gardner S. Williams was graduated from the Saginaw high school in 1884. In 1889 he received the degree of Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from the University of Michigan, and ten years later the degree of Civil Engineer. Due to his training and ability, Mr. Williams has held many important positions in his field of work. He was assistant engineer in charge of water works construction at Bismarck, North Dakota, in 1887; resident engineer, water works construction at Greenville, Michigan, in 1888, and at Owosso, Michigan, in 1889; civil engineer to the Board of Water Commissioners of Detroit from 1893 to 1898. From 1899 to 1904, he had charge of the hydraulic laboratory at Cornell University and was professor of civil, hydraulic and sanitary engineering at the University of Michigan from 1904 until 1911. Since that time he has been engaged as a consulting engineer, specializing in the hydraulic and water power field. He served as major in the engineering division of the Officers Reserve Corps in 1917. Mr. Williams is connected with a number of engineering organizations. As a member of the American Engineering Council, he served as its vice-president since 1923 and as acting president in 1925. He is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, American Institute of Consulting Engineers, American and New England Waterworks Associations, Detroit Engineering Society, Michigan Engineering Society, and the Western Society of Engineers. He is a member of the Detroit Board of Commerce and of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. He holds membership in the Barton Hills Country Club and the University clubs of Detroit and Ann Arbor. An authority on the subject, he has written, in collaboration with Allen Hazen, "Hydraulic Tables," published in 1905, and personally that part of the American Civil Engineer's Pocket Book devoted to hydraulics. Mr. Williams was married to Miss Jessie B. Wright in 1893. Mrs. Williams is a native of Saginaw, Michigan. They have a daughter, Mrs. John B. Waite, of Ann Arbor, and a son, William W. Williams, of Detroit. Herbert A. Williams, as president of the Farmers and Mechanics Bank, holds an important place in the business life of Ann Arbor. His father, Benedict B. Williams, was born in Lawrence county, New York state, in the year 1831. He gave up farming in that state in 1861 and came to Michigan, settling in the town of Dexter. He established a planing mill and lumber business. He was active in political work and served as township treasurer. His death occurred on September 12, 1915. His wife, Clarissa (Cooley), Williams, was born in Massachusetts and after coming to Michigan, taught school for a number of years in Ann Arbor. Mrs. Williams' 216 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY death preceded her husband's, occurring in 1901. Herbert A. Williams was born in Webster township, Washtenaw county, August 3, 1861. He graduated from the Dexter high school in 1880 and started work in his fathers' planing mill. In 1885 he entered the privately owned bank at Dexter as bookkeeper, but soon found that his duties were varied for he was the only person to do the work of the bank besides the owner. His banking experience was interrupted when he went to Ann Arbor in 1890 as manager of the Courier Steam Printing Company. Two years later, in 1892, he returned to the banking field, and entered the Farmers and Mechanics Bank as a teller. In 1898 he was promoted to the position of assistant cashier, and in 1908 was made cashier of the bank. In 1912 he was made president and it is in this capacity that he now serves. Mr. Williams was married to Mabel R. Beal, of Dexter, on October 20, 1886. Their four children are: Harold, who passed away in 1919; Mildred, now Mrs. L. J. Call; Max E., who was a state bank examiner, and is now assistant cashier of the Farmers and Mechanics Bank in charge of the State street office; and Marian, a graduate of the University of Michigan. Mr. Williams is a Mason, member of the Shrine in Detroit, a member of the Barton Hills Country Club, the Ann Arbor club, and the Ann Arbor Golf and Outing Club. Arch D. Wilson is one of Ann Arbor's younger attorneys. He was born in New Castle, Pennsylvania, June 5, 1896. His father, Frank M. Wilson, is a native of Pennsylvania and has for the past thirty-five years been in the postal service at New Castle. His wife, Mary A. (McGittigan), is of Scotch descent. After he had graduated from the New Castle high school, Arch D. Wilson matriculated at the University of Michigan and was graduated from that school with the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1920, and Bachelor of Laws in 1922. He was admitted to the bar on August 25, 1923, and since then has been engaged in the private practice of law. Mr. Wilson enlisted for service in the late war, at Camp Custer, March 5, 1918, and was commissioned second lieutenant in August of that year. He was sent to South Carolina as a gunning instructor for replacement troops. Later he was moved to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where he graduated from the American School of Fire as battery commander. He received his discharge December 13, 1918. On June 16, 1922, he was married to Miss Mildred C. Van Amberg, of Brighton, Michigan. Mr. Wilson is a member of the Zeta Chapter of Gamma Eta Gamma, Masonic Lodge No. 159, F. & A. M., and the Ann Arbor Lawyers Club. Percy P. Woodbridge is well known as the efficient secretary of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce, which position he has held since 1924. Mr. Woodbridge is a native of England. He was born in the famous old city of Oxford, February 18, 1887. His father, Charles Woodbridge, also a native of Oxford, was a farmer, miller and grain merchant. He died in 1904 at the age of fifty-seven years. The mother, Elizabeth (Dines) Woodbridge, was born in HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 217 Hertfordshire, and lives in Sussex county at the present time. Mr. Woodbridge came to the United States in 1909 and took up farming. He continued in this work for two years. At the end of that time he removed to Canada and remained there for eleven years. While in Canada he was engaged in farming a short time, but later took up general secretarial work along with his civic and agricultural interests. He came to Ann Arbor in the year 1924, and in September of that year was made secretary of the Chamber of Commerce, a position for which he is well adapted. Mr. Woodbridge married an English girl, Gwendoline Edwards, and to this union there are three children. The eldest daughter, Betty, who is eleven, was born in Canada. John and Cecily are nine-year-old twins. They, too, were born in Canada. All of the children attend the public schools in Ann Arbor. Their father received his education in England. Mr. Woodbridge is a member of the Odd Fellows, and while a resident of Calgary, Alberta, was a member of the Rotary club, where he was chairman of the agricultural section. Charles Wuerth, of German parentage, was born in Germany in 1864. He came to the United States with his family at the age of seven years. He has always been interested in the furniture business and has been located in Ann Arbor for the past seventeen years. He has been successful in building up a progressive and substantial business. He married Katherine Staebler. They have one child, Mrs. Florence Neuman, who is twenty-six years of age, and has her residence in Ann Arbor. Mr. and Mrs. Wuerth occupy the family residence. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Golden Rule Lodge of the Masonic Order, and a member of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. J. Fred Wuerth, president of the J. F. Wuerth Company, 322 South Main street, Ann Arbor, and owner of the Orpheum and Wuerth theaters in Ann Arbor and the Wuerth theater at Ypsilanti, may say truthfully that he fought his way unaided from the status of a poor immigrant boy to a secure position in the business world. Born in the Black Forest of Germany on February 25, 1871, he is the son of Ludwig and Fredrica (Heist) Wuerth, the father dying two months before the birth of his son. Undaunted by her misfortune, his mother disposed of her belongings there and brought her five children to America, Fred being at that time but a few months over one year old. The family settled in Ann Arbor, where the mother endeavored to give all of her children an education. The task was too great, and when young Wuerth became big enough to earn a little with which to help the family finances, and because of sickness, he was compelled by necessity to drop his schooling. His first job was on a berry farm, where he worked six months at eight dollars per month, giving the entire sum to his mother. He then obtained a place in the George Wahr book store, where he was employed as a clerk for fifteen years. He gained a reputation for industry, sobriety and dependability, and managed to save small sums from his weekly earnings while aiding 218 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY his widowed mother. In 1900 he formed a partnership with Robert Staebler, in the clothing business. He quickly demonstrated his fitness for the responsibility placed upon him by the senior member of the firm, and the business prospered to such a degree that when Staebler retired from the firm seven years later Wuerth was able to purchase his partner's portion of the assets. He then changed the name of the store to the J. F. Wuerth Company. A few years later, in 1913, he obtained a property with a one hundred and twelve foot frontage on South Main street. On this site, one year later, he erected the Orpheum theater. This venture proved a profitable one, and in 1916 he built what is now the home of the J. F. Wuerth clothing store. The Wuerth theater, which adjoins this building, was erected and dedicated to Marion, daughter of its owner, in 1917. His Ann Arbor properties continued to yield handsome returns, and in 1918 he bought the old opera house building in Ypsilanti, remodeling the structure to make it a modern motion picture house which he operates under the Wuerth name. Having had many obstacles in his own battle for success, he has a kindly feeling for young folks who have their way to make in the world. This feeling he demonstrates in many ways; by advice, encouragement and, often, financial assistance. He is known as a public-spirited, generous man, who is active in every civic and social welfare project in Ann Arbor. He is a member of the chapter, council, commandery, consistory and Shrine of the Masonic order, and is also affiliated with the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. His wife was Martha Breitinscher, of Pleasant Lake, Michigan. Daniel F. Zimmerman was born in Wayne, Michigan, June 2, 1878. He is the son of David and Ella (Forbes) Zimmerman. His mother was a daughter of a family of early Scotch settlers. David Zimmerman was born in Pennsylvania in 1848. He was a graduate of Michigan State Normal School, attended the University of Michigan for two years and was graduated from Columbia University, receiving the degree of Doctor of Medicine. His first practice was started in Wayne, Michigan. Sensing the opportunity, he later opened a bank in that city. In 1893 Dr. Zimmerman moved to Ann Arbor, and with William J. Booth, A. S. Noble, William Arnold and others, organized the State Savings Bank. Although he never held any of the offices in the organization, it was at all times operated under his management, and continued so until his death, in 1897. Daniel F. Zimmerman had his elementary school work at Wayne and took his high school work at Ann Arbor. He was a student at the University of Michigan for four and one-half years, pursuing literary and law studies. He left school at the end of this period to attend to the family business. In 1909, Mr. Zimmerman was a factor in organizing the Artificial Ice Company. The management of the company was in his hands for five years. His next responsibility came with the organization of the Hoover Steel Ball Company, in which he served as secretary until the spring of 1917. At that time he entered the first officers' training camp and earned a captaincy in the 39th machine gun battalion. He was HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 219 sent to France and after a year of service won the title of major. Mr. Zimmerman had been a director in the State Bank of Ann Arbor, and upon his return from France was made vice-president, and it is in this position that he now serves. On June 2, 1903, he married Miss Frances Farr, of Grand Haven, Michigan. Their children are Frances and David. Mr. Zimmerman is a member of a number of fraternal and social organizations. His Masonic activities embrace all branches of that order in Ann Arbor. He is a member of the Rotary Club, the Ann Arbor club, the Barton Hills Country Club, the Detroit Club and the Detroit University Club. His business interests are wide. He is president of the Washtenaw Gas Company, the Washtenaw Abstract Company, and the Artificial Ice Company. He is vice-president of the Ann Arbor Construction Company and the State Savings Bank and also a director in the Title and Trust Company and the Frischkorn Real Estate Company, both of Detroit. Mr. Zimmerman is well known through his business and social connections and is conceded to be a man of progressive ideas and firm in his adherence to high standards of business practice. Osias Zwerdling, well-known furrier of Ann Arbor, is a native of Galicia. He was born in the city of Bordy, in that country, October 7, 1878. His father, who was also a native of Galicia, Moses Zwerdling, was an educator. His life was short, his death occurring when he was but twenty-four years of age. The mother, Leah, is also of Galicia, and is living with her daughter in Brooklyn, New York. He learned the fur trade in Austria and after studying his work in Paris two years, Osias Zwerdling came to America and worked in New York City for two years. At the expiration of this period, he came to Ann Arbor, where he found employment with Mack & Company for a year. He then instituted the fur and ladies' tailoring business in which he has since been so successful. Mr. Zwerdling married, in Manchester, England, a girl who was a native of his own country, Hannah Kaufman, and to this union three boys were born. Morris, who is sixteen years of age, is a senior in the Ann Arbor high school. Joseph, who is fourteen, is a junior in the high school, and Abraham, a boy of eleven, is in the sixth grade of the public schools. Mr. and Mrs. Zwerdling were married in 1907. Mr. Zwerdling is interested in work for boys and for the welfare of youth in general. He has been prominently connected for the past six years with the Parent-Teacher Association, and is connected with the Boy Scout movement, serving as a member of the council and as chairman of Committee Thirteen. He is a director of the Families Welfare Association and of the Huron Valley Building and Loan Association. He organized the Beth-Israel church, of which he has been president since, and is an executive member of the United Synagogues. He is a Mason, a member of the Maccabees, and the Chamber of Commerce of Ann Arbor. 220 HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY Horatio J. Abbott, one of Ann Arbor's most representative business men, was born in Lenawee county, at Clayton, March 26, 1876. His father, Aaron Abbott, a builder, was born in McConnelsville, New York, and died in 1908 at the age of eighty-one. The mother, Mabel (Johnson) Abbott, who died in 1917 at the age of eighty-six, was born in Hartford, Connecticut. Mr. Abbott came to Ann Arbor September 23, 1899, and entered the Literary Department of the University of Michigan. After he had finished his schooling he became interested in the newspaper business. Later building appealed more to him and he went into that business and continued in that line of work until 1915. In that year he became postmaster of Ann Arbor and held that position for eight years. After that he became president of the Abbott Gasoline Co., and it is in this position that he now serves. The firm is made up of local men. The company pumps to ten places in Ann Arbor and acts as county distributing agent for the White Star Refining Co., of Detroit. The business has been very successful. In addition to his duties relative to this company, Mr. Abbott serves on the board of directors of the Farmers' and Mechanics' Bank, and also in the same capacity for the Artificial Ice Company. Mr. Abbott is identified with a number of fraternal, social, and business organizations. He is a Mason, a member of the Knights of Pythias, and the Odd Fellows. He holds membership in the Chamber of Commerce and in Investment Associates. He is a member of the Barton Hills Country Club, the Ann Arbor Club, and the Rotary Club. He worships at the Methodist church. William Arnold is head of the William Arnold Jewelry Company and has been a leading figure in the commercial and industrial life of Ann Arbor. He was born in 1850, in Germany. He finished his schooling at the age of fourteen. In 1872 he came to Ann Arbor, learned watch making, and soon was able to establish a business of his own which has developed rapidly to its present importance. He was one of the organizers of the Hoover Steel Ball Co., and active in promoting its growth. He was made vicepresident of the State Savings Bank, and later its president. He served in this capacity until February, 1924, when he retired believing that the work belonged to younger men in the organization. He married Siona Theodolinde, also a native of Germany, and is the father of five sons, all prominent in their various lines of endeavor. William Jr. is one of Ann Arbor's progressive business men interested in several lines of business. Frederick, a graduate of the Engineering Department of the University of Michigan, is located in Salt Lake City, and has a son attending the University. Emil is the eye specialist of the William Arnold Jewelry Co. Rudolph and Arthur have a jewelry store located on State street. Mr. Arnold is a Mason and a member of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce. Clarence J. Fingerle, popular restaurant owner, believes in giving pure food at reasonable prices. It is on this principle that he has built up a very successful business in the city of Ann Arbor. HISTORY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY 221 Mr. Fingerle was born in Lansing, Michigan, April 30, 1883. His father, August Fingerle, is a native of Michigan and now lives in California. He is a merchant and is sixty-six years of age. His mother was born in New Jersey, and now lives with her husband in California. Previous to his coming to Ann Arbor, Mr. Fingerle was superintendent of the John R. Thompson Co., which operates a chain of restaurants with places of business in the larger cities throughout the country. He was also manager of the United States Restaurant, at Adams and State streets, Chicago. This restaurant has a seating capacity of twelve hundred. Upon coming to Ann Arbor he bought the Arcade Cafeteria, and later, in 1921, the M Lunch. Then he established the University Mercantile Company. Mr. Fingerle came to Ann Arbor October 11, 1919. There is one son, Clarence W., who was born in San Francisco. He attended school in Ann Arbor, and is now in school in Big Rapids, Michigan. He is twenty-one years of age. Mr. Fingerle is a Mason, member of the Knights Templars, a member of the Elks and of the Chamber of Commerce. II I f I I I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1