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THE
UNION SKETCH-BOOK:
EXHIBITING THE
HISTORY AND BUSINESS RESOURCES OF THE LEADING
MERCANTILE AND MANUFACTURING
FIRMS OF NEW YORK.
INTERSPERSED WITH MANY IMPORTANT, VALUABLE, AND
INTERESTING FACTS RELATING TO THE VARIOUS
BRANCHES OF
TRADE, MANUFACTURE, AND THE MECHANIC ARTS.
TO WHICH IS ADDED
A DIRECTORY
TO THE PRINCIPAL OBJECTS OF INTEREST IN NEW YORK, AND
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST,
FOR THE USE OF VISITING MERCHANTS.
WRITTEN, ARRANGED, AND COMPILED FROM AUTHENTIC SOURCES.
Br GOBRIGHT AND DAWES.
NEW YORK :
RUDD & CARLETON, 130 GRAND STREET.
M DCCC LXI.
JOHNS & CROSLEY,
Sole Manufacturers of the
IMPROVED
GUTTA PERCH A CEMENT ROOFING,
The Cheapest and Most Durable Roofing in use. Is Fire and Water
Proof. Can be applied to Roofs of all kinds, new or old,
steep or flat. The cost is less than one-half that of Tin,
and is twice as durable.
GUTTA PERCHA CEMENT,
For Preserving and Repairing Tin and other Metal Roofs, is more
durable, when applied to Metals of all kinds, than any
Paint known, and far cheaper.
For Cementing Wood, Leather, Glass, China, Marble, Ivory, Bone,
Porcelain, &c., &c.
JOHNS & CROSLEY,
WHOLESALE WAREHOUSE,
78 William Street, corner of Liberty,
NEW YORK.
FULL DESCRIPTIVE CIRCULARS FURNISHED ON APPLICATION.
INDEX.
PAGX
Agricultural Implements, Ac., Grifflng Bros 112
Alcohol, Camphene, Ac., J. A. Webb <& Co 180
Alcohol and Liquors, Hoffman & Curtis 146
Ales, Wines, Ac., G. E. Mendum 134
American Gutta Percha Kooflng Co., Forbes <S> Willis 55
American Porcelain Photograph Co., 186
American Cement Glue, John* <& Crosley 85
Amusements, Places of, in New York 117
Artificial Flowers, R. M. Mitchill 91
Bankers, Duncan, Sherman <fc Co 188
Billiard Tables, I'helan & Collender 87
Billiard Materials, Photon <fc CoUender 87
Billiard Saloons, in New York 115
Burning Fluid, A Icohol, &c., J A. Webb 180
Candles, Soaps, Ac., J. C. Hull's Son 12
Camphcne, Alcohol, Ac., J. A. Webb 180
Central Park, New York 8
City Hospital, New York 174
City Uailroads, New York 82
Cigars, Wines, Ac., Thomas G. Little 48
Cloths, Cassimeres, Ac., Sullivan, Randolph tt Budd 109
Coal Oils, Ac., Cozeens A Co . 70
Colt's Arms Company, Hartford, Conn 159
Conn. Mutual Life Insurance Co., W. S. Dunham 128
Cordage, Twine, Ac., Wittard Harvey & Co. 127
Cracker Bakery, E. TreitdwelCe Sons 41
Currier's Oil, Hading* & Co.* 88
Daguerreotypes, Photographs, Ac., C. D, Fredericks <t Co 60
do. do. J. Gurney <k Son 68
Distillers and Rectifiers, Hoffman <fc Curtis* 145
Distances in the Citv, New York 136
Dry Goods, Ac., C. W. & J. T. Moort & Co 78
Drugs and Chemicals, Schieffelin Bros, <fe Co 16
Druggists' Articles, Schie/elin Bros. & Co 16
Drugs, Medicines, Ac., A. B. Sands <& Co 142
Envelopes, Berlin & Jones 108
Engraving, Klectrotyping. Ac., A. H. Jocelyn 175
Feathers, for Millinery. 11. M. Mitchill 9V
Fine Art Institutions, New York 115
Fire Arms, Coifs Arms Company 159
Fancy Goods, Cary, Ifmcara, Sanyer dk Co 170
Fences, N. Y. Co.'s Patent, W. tthattitclc 178
Fire Proof Safes, S. C. Herring & Co. 181
Gutta Percha Hoofing and Cement, Forbet & Will-U 65
Gutta Percha Cement Kooflng, Johns & Croxley 88
Guide to objects of Interest, in New York 61
Gunpowder, Tim Iliizanl (iiinjimcder Company 156
Hackney Cnudi Fares, in New York 187
Hazard Gunpowder Company 156
History of the Manufacture of Envelopes, Berlin it Jones 108
Hoop Skirts, L. A. Osborn 189
Hotels, in New York 96
VI INDEX.
PAflB
Japanned and Planished Tin Ware, J. D. Locke 27
Johns & Crosley's Advertisements 2 and 4
Kerosene and Coal Oil, Cozzens & Co 79
Lead Pipe, Sheet Lead, Shot, <fcc, Otis, Leroy <& Co. 169
Life Insurance, W. S. Dunham 1'28
Liquors, Domestic, Hoffman A Curtiss 145
Locks, Jones' Patent, C. 8. Herring A Co .181
Medicines, Drugs. Ac., A. B. Sands A Co 142
Military Books, D. Van Nostrand 188
Millinery Goods, B. M. Mitchill 91
New York Fence Company, W. S/utttuck 178
New York City ^
New York City Hospital 174
New York City Parks 29
Objects of Interest, in New York City. 61
Oils, Candles, &c., Hustings A Co 88
Oils, Coal, Cozzens & Co 70
Paper, Envelopes, fec., Berlin A Jones 108
Perfumery and Toilet Articles, Schieffelin Bros. & Co 16
Piano Fortes, Lighte, & Bradbury 88
do. do. Raven, Bacon A Co 152
Photographic Gallery, J. Gurney & Son 58
Photographs, Daguerreotypes, &c., C. D. Fredericks A Co 50
Population of the United States, Census 1860 7
Popular Resorts, in New York 117
Porcelain, Photographs on 185
Principal Objects of Interest in New York 61
Kailroad Depots, New York 81
Boofing Patent Johns A Crosley 88
Booting, GuttaPercha. Forbes A Willis 55
Booftng Paint, Forbes & Willis outside cover.
Salseratus, Bi-Carb. Soda, Ac., fhos. Andrews A Co. 22
Scientific Books, D. Van Nostrand 1.88
Sewing Machines, Qroter, Baker A Co "66
do. do. Wheeler, Wilson A Co 98
Seeds and Agricultural Implements, Griffing Bros 112
Ship Bread and Crackers, K. TreadwelCs Sons 41
Shot, Bullets, Lead, Ac.. Otis, Leroy A Co 169
811 ver Ware, Gale A Willis 98
Soap, Candles, Ac., /fatting* A Co. 88
do. do. J. C. Hull's Son 12
Soda, Salseratus, <fcc., Thos. Andt ews A Co 22
Something about Dry Goods, C. W. A J. T. Moore A Co 78
Spring Bed Bottoms, Johns A Crosley 85
Tesselatcd Pavements, Maw A Co. 119
Theatres, in New York lit
Tiles for Floors, Mnw A Co 119
Tin Ware, Ac., J. D. Locke A Co 2T
Twine Seines, .fee.. Willard, Harvey A Co 127
Ulmcr Spring Bed Bottom, Johns A Crosl-ey 85
Vesting*, Cloths, Ac., Sullivan, Randolph A Budd 109
Whale Oils, HnMngt A Co . 88
W im-s. Cigars, Ac., Thos. G. Little 48
"Wood Kngravlng. A. If. Joc.ely* 175
Yeast Powders, Tlws. Andrews A Co 22
THE UNION SKETCH-BOOK AND GUIDE TO
' NEW YORK.
IN presenting oar fifth volume to the public, we would thank
them for the gratifying evidences they have given us of their appre-
ciation of our past efforts, which, in writing the present work, have
impelled us to endeavor to surpass the former ones. Oar aim has
been^ in this volame, to embody in the most condensed form, all the
most important and interesting facts relating to the origin and pro-
gress of Science, Art, Mechanics, and Manufactures, and while
giving many statistics we have endeavored to connect with them
many interesting items that should render the book both amusing
and instructive. -We have added several new features to the pre-
sent work which we hope will be found valuable to all into whose
hands it may fall*
NEW YORK.
'Tis pleasant, through the loopholes of retreat,
To peep at such a world ; to see the stir
Of the great Babel, and not feel the crowd ;
To hear the roar she sends through all her gatcSj
At a safe distance, where the dying sound
Falls a soft murmur on the uninjured car.
COWPER.
A writer of recent date thus briefly, but forcibly, refers to this
metropolis the great point of centralization for the enterprise of
the entire continent. It is " the centre from which radiates most of
what constitutes the prosperity and glory of the country, and to
which it is directed, as the threads which comprise the spider's web
all tend to the nucleus in its middle. The commerce, the learning,
the scientific knowledge concentrated here nay, the very geographi-
cal position of New York, with its two water approaches opening
into the ocean, covered with a net-work of steamships the two
magnificent rivers which encircle it ; the railroads which converge
8 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
in its very heart, all tend to make it the centre of civilization on the
American continent. Add to which it is thought to be as healthy
a spot as any in the world."
It now occupies the entire island from the Battery to the Harlem
river, abont fourteen miles in extent, or an area of nearly twenty-
three square miles. In 1850 upward of three thousand buildings
were erected. During subsequent years the ratio has been much
greater, while the edifices exhibit the most lavish expenditure; all
tending to prove the fact that New York does business on a large
scale. One of its latest and grandest enterprises is *
THE OEEAT CENTRAL PARK,
the lands of which came into the possession of the city in February,
1856.
DESCRIPTION OF THE GROUND. The tract comprises at present
840 acres, including about 142 acres belonging to the Croton Aque-
duct Department ; and it contains, besides streets and avenues, about
9,00(7 Jots (25 x 100). Its cost was $5,444,369.90, of which sum
$1,657,590 was assessed on adjoining property, leaving $3,786,779 to
be paid by the city, the money being borrowed on five per cent,
stock, payable in 1898. This is believed to have been the largest
sum ever expended in the purchase of land for a public park. The
park, as its name implies, lies in the geographical centre of New
York Island, being about five miles from the Battery and from
King's Bridge, and about three quarters of a mile from the East
river and from the North river. It is about two and a half miles
long, and. half a mile wide, being long and narrow in form, as com-
pared with other parks of equal size.
The narrow limits of this work utterly exclude the possibility of
giving a detailed description of this magnificent enterprise ; we,
therefore, content ourselves by extracting from the celebrated manual
of Mr. Valentine, the following general view :
"The most important improvement now being made in the city,
is the regulation of the Central Park, which is situated very nearly
in the geographical centre of the island, and comprises 773 acres,
THE UfrlON SKETCH BOOK. 9
bounded by Fifty-ninth street, Fifth Avenne, 106th street, and
Eighth Avenne. It is proposed to extend it to 110th street, in
order to secure the very beautiful northern slope of a large hill,
which lies mainly within the park. This extension will increase its
size to about 840 acres. The receiving Croton Reservoir, and the new
reservoir (now under construction) lie within the park, near its centre.
The Central Park is to be, in all respects, as well adapted as is possi-
ble to the recreative wants of the people of the city ; rich and poor,
old and young, strong and weak, will here find common ground ;
and the arrangement of the various parts will be such as to afford
the largest facilities for individual enjoyment, without interference
from, or interfering with, those of different tastes. Pedestrians may
roam at pleasure over twenty-five miles of walks, some fashionable
and much frequented, others retired and quiet ; or over hundreds of
acres of lawn, woodland, and meadow. In their walks they may
obtain any desirable observation of equipages and equestrians with-
out once having to cross their track on the same level, or they may
entirely seclude themselves, not only from the sight, but from the
sound of vehicles. Riders on horseback may join the throng on the
carriage-roads, or may confine their peregrinations to five miles of
bridle road, on which no vehicle will be admitted. Nearly two
miles of this ride will be about the new reservoir, where it is pro-
posed to contrive for equestrians a level road forty feet in width.
For carriages there will be nearly eight miles of broad, well-made
roadway, affording, in its course, a view of nearly every object of
interest in fche Park, but nowhere crossing on the same level, a foot
path of importance, or any portion of the bridle road. The main
entrance to the Park will be at the corner of Fifth avenue and
Fifty-ninth street, and there will be minor entrances at Seventh
avenue at either end of the Park and at convenient points along
Fifth and Eighth avenues. For tlie accommodation of business
travel across the Park, there will be provided four transverse roads,
so arranged as to pass under elevated portions of the roadways, and
to afford a direct thoroughfare across the Piirk, without obstructing
or being obstructed by pleasure travel. The prominent feature of the
1*
10 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
Park will be a grand mall, one quarter of a mile in length, ^nd two
hundred feet in width, having a broad walk in its centre, and four
rows of elm trees extending through its entire length. This mall
will be approached at its southern end by a vestibule or lawn, orna-
mented with statuary, and it will terminate at its northern extremity
in a richly decorated water terrace and fountain. At the foot of the
terrace is the principal pond of the Park, containing nearly twenty
acres of water, and skirting the Ramble a rural promenading dis-
trict south of the receiving reservoir. It was this pond which was
filled for the benefit of skaters during the past winter."
Further and general information respecting the general features
of the Park may be obtained from an admirable pamphlet entitled
a " Guide to the Central Park," from which we extract the follow-
ing:
HOW TO SEE THE PARK CITY OAE8.
The Central Park may be reached by the Third, Sixth, and Eighth
avenue railroads. The Third avenue cars run from below the City
Hall, near the Astor House, via the Bowery and Third avenue, to
One Hundred and Thirtieth street, Harlem. This line runs parallel
to the Park, two blocks distant, for its entire length, and affords the
best accommodations for visiting those parts which are now most
interesting. Passengers may leave the cars at the depot (Sixty-fifth
street), and Walk across Hamilton square and a partially open street,
to the Fifth avenue, entering the Park at the Arsenal gate or at
Sixty-seventh street, the route across being tolerable in dry weather ;
at Seventy-first street, which is open to a very favorable point of
entrance ; at Seventy-ninth street, on the upper side of which there is
a good" side- walk, to the Superintendent's office ; at Eighty-sixth street,
which is Hugged to the Park, crossing it to the reservoirs ; or at One
Hundred and Ninth street, which is open to the Park near its north-
ern boundary. These cars run every two and a half minutes, each
alternate car (marked over the front " HARLEM AND YORKVILLE,
DIRECT") running through to Harlem, and the others only to Sixty-
fifth street. The fare to Sixty-fifth street is five cents ; thence to
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 11
Harlem five cents; and through the entire route from the Astor
House to Harlem, but six cents. The time from the Astor House
to Sixty-fifth street is forty-eight minutes ; to Seventy-ninth street,
fifty-four minutes; to Ninety-second street, sixty minutes, and to
Harlem, one hour and eighteen minutes. From Caual street it is
eleven minutes less than from the Astor House, and from Fourteenth
street, twenty-five minutes less. The Third avenue cars also run
every few minutes to Sixty-fifth street, and two or three times an
hour, to Harlem, all night.
The Sixth avenue cars run from the Astor House, and from Broad-
way and Canal street, via Varick street, etc., and the Sixth avenue,
to Fifty-ninth street, the lower boundary of the Park. After leav-
ing the cars, turn to the left, and enter at the first or second stile.
The first leads to a high mass of rock, whence may be had a good
view of that part of the park ; and the second, by the easiest route
to the drive.
The Eighth avenue cars start from the same points as the Sixth,
and pass, via Hudson street, etc., to the Eighth avenue, on which
they run to Forty-ninth street, whence passengers may walk, a half
mile, to the park, or until they meet, at Fifty-first street (which they
may, or may not), a small car, that runs to and from Fifty-ninth
street. From the terminus of this line, one may turn to the right,
and enter at the Seventh avenue gate, or continue up the Eighth
avenue to the Sixty-second street gate. The fare on both of these
roads is five cents, for any distance, and the cars run at frequent
iBterv.ils.
A FEW WORDS ABOUT SOAP AND CANDLES.
-Industry,
To meditate, to plan, resolve, perform,
Which in itself is good as surely brings
Reward of good, no matter what be done.
POLLOK.
" The quantity of Soap consumed by a nation," says the
celebrated Licbig in his familiar letters on chemistry, would be
no inaccurate measure whereby to estimate its wealth and civili-
zation. Political economists, indeed, will not give it this rank;
but whether we regard it as joke or earnest, it is not the less
true that, of two countries equal in population, we may declare
with positive certainty, that the wealthiest and most highly
civilized, is that which consumes the greatest weight of soap.
It is not, however, merely by the quantity consumed of this
important article, that the distinguished chemist would establish
his claims to represent the civilization of a people. The vast train
of chemical, manufacturing, and commercial operations called
into existence for its economical production, and the cheaper,
more extended, and altogether new arts and processes incident-
ally growing, out of these, would, even wfth political econo-
mists, entitle it to this rank.
The materials used in making soaps are alkalies and fatty
snl (stances, or oils, both of animal and vegetable origin ; of the
former, potash, soda, and a small proportion of lime, are em-
ployed. The artificial production and cheap supply of soda
I'niiii common salt, the alkali chiefly used, introduced about the
beginning of the present century, has since that time completely
revolutionized the business both in Europe and in this country,
and probably within the last twenty years quadrupled the con-
sumption of fats and oils The principal ones used are, tallow
THE UNION SKETCH BpOK. 13
and lard ; palm, olive, and cocoa-nut oils. Rosin also enters
largely into the composition of common yellow soap. Theyf
chief agency is to serve as a vehicle for the alkali, upon which
the detergent properties of soap mainly depend ; while the
combination of the latter with the fatty acids generated in
the process of saponification, subdues its caustic qualities, and
preserves the skin and the texture and colors of fabrics. Many
other important and interesting facts relating to the manufac-
ture of soap and candles might here be given, but want of
space compels us to be brief; we therefore conclude our pre-
sent article, by giving a practical illustration of the business.
J. C. HULL'S SON (FORMERLY WAGER HULL & SON).
This house dates its existence as far back as 1780, having
been established by a great-grandfather of the present firm, on
a small lot of ground upon the present site. Since that period
the business has passed through a succession of three genera-
tions, and is now in the hands of Charles Wager Hull, consti-
tuting an establishment of such great age, as is rarely to be
found ; and the fact of its remaining for such a length of time
in the exclusive possession of one family, is one of the surest
evidences of the thorough and practical knowledge of the
business as conducted by the above-named firm.
The reputation for excellence which the soaps of this establish-
ment have gained, is owing to the finer qualities of oils which are
used, and which are entirely free from any injurious admixture
of foreign substances so much used by many soap-makers to
give strength to common soap, and to make cheaper any soap
into which they are infused. In the production of fancy soaps,
this establishment is not equalled by any other in the United
States, comprising some seventy kinds, of all shapes, tints,
stamps, sizes, and perfumes, and which in their appearance are
14 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
truly beautiful and attractive. With reference to the candle
department, it may be said, that candles are made here by a
peculiar process, known only to this concern, and being made
in large quantities, are offered to the trade at prices far below
the mark elsewhere charged for articles of an inferior
quality.
Were it necessary, we might enumerate some 'of the leading
articles of Messrs. Hull's manufacture, which have gained great
celebrity throughout the country ; but they are so well-known,
that eulogy would add nothing to the high appreciation in
which they are already held. This being the oldest, and one
of the largest and best-regulated soap and candle factories in
the United States, it forms a matter of no surprise that its
business is so largely and widely extended, reaching to the West
Indies, and to South and Central America, and enjoying in our
own country as well, a large share of patronage. Articles
emanating from this establishment fully justify the correctness
of the foregoing statements, and as experience is necessary to
the production of perfect articles, it is to be presumed that a
period of eighty-one years has not been spent in vain ; hence
it is that the oldest customers of the house have closely adhered
to their first choice, while new ones, desiring to secure their
own interests, are not slow to avail themselves of the advan-
tages thus presented.
Among the articles for which the factory of J. C. Hull's
Son lias obtained a special and profitable celebrity, may be men-
tioned their Pure Old Palm Soap, which for many years they
have manufactured to a large extent. It is made from pure
palm oil, and is confessed equal to any imported article for the
ordinary toilet purposes, for children, and for the bath. The
known healing properties, peculiar to palm-oil, have made it
highly valued, and especially adapt it for chapped hands in cold
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 15
.
weather. We can recommend this truly excellent article, from
long personal familiarity with it.
Notwithstanding its great merits, it is sold much lower than
any imported soaps, and than many which are claimed to be
imported. It has a slight, pleasing, delicate perfume ; and, we
should here observe that soaps are injured whn too highly
scented, although the uninformed in these matters are often led
.to imagine that the keener the odor the better the soap.
J. C. Hull's Son likewise manufacture a very fine article of
Shaving Soap, which we can commend for its quick and abund-
ant lather, and its assistance to the razor in the smooth and
easy removal of the beard.
Another article of their manufacture, which is of great im-
portance and has come into extensive use for Hail roads, Steam-
ships, Mills, Machine shops, &c., is entitled The Imperial Lubri-
cating Oil, and amongst its merits are the following : Its first
cost is very much less than that of any other oil ; all the gum
in the oil is decomposed, so that it does not gum or clog up
the journal or bearing; it' keeps all journals cool, clean, and
bright as new, so that they do not wear or tear, and thus
much motive power is saved ; it is free from any odor ; it has
great body, and so wears well, and thus, by its durability, it
saves oil.
Conclusive testimonials as to these have been furnished to
the public from the agents, inspectors, and engineers of some
of the most extensive Railroads, Steamboats, Saw-Mills, Found-
ries, fec.; and to the Circular, containing these interesting and
important communications, we refer the many who are interested.
Wi- have no doubt its extraordinary merits will enable it to
supersede any other lubricating oil, and to^be a great saving
to all who shall use it.
Within the brain's most secret cells
A certain lord-chief-justice dwells,
Of sovereign power, whom, one and all,
"With common voice we Reason call. ,*
CHUBCHILL.
The importation and manufacture of drugs and chemicals
has become during the last half century among the most
important and lucrative branches of business in America, and
therefore deserves more than a passing notice.
A large proportion of the leading drugs used in the United
States, are the products of foreign countries, and must be
imported. The best antimony is imported from Hungary ;
assafoetida is the fetid concrete juice of a plant that grows in
Persia ; camphor comes from the East Indies and Japan ; cassia
from China ; jalap is a Mexican plant, found near the city of
Xalapa, after which it is named ; the best opium is the juice of
the white poppy, that grows in Turkey, Egypt, and the East
Indies.; hellebore is a native of the mountains of Switzerland
and Germany ; sarsaparilla is imported from South America,
Honduras, and Quito; senna and scammony from Arabia; the
best rhubarb from Asiatic Turkey, and so on through the whole
genus, which it would be an endless task to particularize.
-In the early stage of the drug business, these articles were
solely imported by different merchants trading with the places
where the various drugs were produced ; but nearly a century
ago the drug trade was made a specialty, although ^t the
present day a large portion of our drugs are still brought into
the market by the general merchant, or consigned to a com-
mission house to sell on foreign account. These goods are
generally sold through the drug broker, who sells the article as
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 17
it is, and it requires good judgment and careful examination to
buy advantageously in this matter, as many of the imported
drugs and chemicals are adulterated by unscrupulous foreign
manufacturers expressly for this market, in order to undersell
the honest trade. To such an extent was this adulteration
carried on a few years ago, that the New York College of
Pharmacy published an analysis of the composition of some
well-known articles, from which, by way of example, we extract
the following: "An imported blue pill contains a percentage
of mercury from ten down to seven and a half, mixed with
blue clay and Prussian blue to give the proper design and
color. Its composition, according to Prof. Reid, is mercury,
earthy clay, Prussian blue, sand in combination with the clay,
soluble saccharine matters, insoluble organic matter and water.
Very large quantities of rhubarb much decayed, the better
parts of which are dark colored, with scarcely any taste or
smell, having probably been exhausted to make extracts, come
from England at very low prices. It is intended and used for
powdering, color being given by turmeric, <kc. Most of the
foreign extracts are not what they profess to be, and cannot be
relied upon in the treatment of disease." We could multiply
these examples to an indefinite extent, but the above will be
sufficient to show the extent of the evil, the effectual remedy to
which can only be found in the improved knowledge and culture
of the buyers, and above all in purchasing at fair prices from
importers of known integrity, and drug houses who make drugs,
chemicals, and druggists' articles their specialty.
The house whose name heads this article, Messrs. Schieffelin
Brothers & Co., William street, corner of Beekman, New York,
is one of the oldest, and, we believe, the leading drug importing
house in the United States. Established for three generations,
having a large capital and great experience, this firm is able to
18 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
compete on the one hand with the most favored in the markets
of Europe, and on the other to distribute the articles of their
importation through wholesale druggists throughout the country.
They have furthermore the advantage of having experienced
agents -located in the drug-producing countries, whose instruc-
tions are to purchase and ship direct none but the best and
purest qualities. Thus as they sell what they import direct
from their own stores, the superiority of their importations
may be as confidently asserted as they are generally acknow-
ledged.
To give a better idea of the ramifications of the trade of this
house throughout the globe, we subjoin a partial list of the
places where their agents are located, being London, Liverpool,
Northampton, Cork, Glasgow, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Antwerp,
Paris, Lyons, Marseilles, Grasse, Montpelier, Nimes, Dresden,
Berlin, Darmstadt, Leghorn, Genoa, Penang, Naples, Trieste,
Messina, Smyrna, Constantinople, Alexandria, Egypt, St. Peters-
burg, Bombay, Calcutta, Singapore, Penang, Batavia, Canton,
Shanghai, Manilla, Qplombo, and various places in South
America. Thus laying three continents under contribution for
their balms to heal the sick, their dye stuffs and pigments for
the mechanic arts, their sp.ices for the epicure, and their thou-
sand and one extracts and essences for all conceivable purposes.
The drug trade during the last few years has not only vastly
increased, but has also undergone a vast change in the stock
required to be kept on hand. Not only is it now necessary to
keep crude drugs, chemicals, and essential oils, but a perfect
stock must comprise these, arid also medicine^, essences, extracts,
oils, paints, dye stuffs, and druggists' wares; and still more
recently another branch has been introduced, that of keeping
on hand foreign and domestic perfumery, toilet articles, India-
. fubber goods, instruments, and fancy goods generally, of all of
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 19
which Messrs. S. B. & Co. have always a large stock on hand,
suitable for jobbers, which we purpose more particularly detail-
ing in the following brief description of their premises, which
we had the privilege of inspecting a few days ago.
The building has a frontage on William street of eighty
eight feet, running back on Beekman street seventy-two feet.
It is six stories high, with basement and sub-cellar, built of
pressed brick in the most substantial manner, which is necessary
to enable it to bear the immense weight nearly always con-
tained in it. The fourth, fifth, and sixth floors are crowded with
whole packages of non-combustible goods, and each floor has
one man whose special business it is to attend to it, to receive
and deliver goods through the hatchways, of which there are
two, and to keep them in proper order, by which means every
article is kept in its place> and can be immediately had when
wanted.
The third floor is divided into two parts ; one for open pack-
ages, mortars, glass, slabs, and druggists' ware. The other is
for patent medicines, Shakers, and other herbs, and such like,
each under the charge of a separate .foreman, one of whom has
been with the firm over twenty-nine years.
The second story is used for putting up goods, and is divided
into three compartments under .one superintendent. The first
is the city department, for putting up alt orders for the city
retail trade ; the second department is the oil and liquid room,
where all goods for bottles or cans are put up ; while the third
is used for tilling country orders. This floor is a constant scene
of activity, yet with all the vast amount of work that has to be
done, owing to the admirable system which prevails, neither
here nor in any other part of the house, notwithstanding there
are sixty men employed, is there tire slightest bustle or con-
fusion. Everything moves like clock-work, in perfect order.
20 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
Descending to the basement, we find piles of dye stuffs,
gums, &c., and other like articles, while on the William street
front is situated the sponge room, containing all kinds and
qualities, from the grass sponge of the Bahamas, to the finer
qualities imported from Smyrna, Turkey, and Trieste, ranging
from seven cents to forty dollars per pound. This is a most
valuable stock, and it is believed Messrs. S. B. & Co. have the
largest in the country. Passing from here under the sidewalk,
which is lighted by means of the patent vault ligh'ts, our
olfactories give notice that we are approaching the extracts and
essences, which are ranged in a series of strongly built vaults
to protect them from heat, where are also kept the essential
oils, opium, &c. Turning round on the Beekman street side
are another series of vaults containing all the combustible
articles, such as ether, oil of vitriol, and other acids, none of
which articles are ever allowed in the main building.
Descending once again to the lowest deep, we come upon a
miscellaneous assortment of heavy articles, such as soda, salsera-
tus, salts, &c. Here also are the two steam engines for hoist-
ing, and heating the building, the boilers supplying the steam
being under the sidewalk, which is the only place where any
fire throughout the whole building is allowed. There are
also another range of vaults, where the balance of inflammable
or explosive article* are kept.
We now come to the first floor, which, though last, is not
least. Entering from the corner, you come into a spacious
room, on the left of which are a series of desks and partitions
appropriated for the bookkeeper, cashier, and assistants.
In the centre and right are a series of desks occupied by the
members of the firm and the buyers and salesmen of the differ-
ent departments, whilst at the end is an office devoted for
the reception of customers or others having private business
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. . .2
with tlic house. Beyond this, separated by a partition, is the
shipping room, where all goods are received and shipped. This
room extends the whole width of the building, with an entrance
on Beekraan street, and during the busy season is a scene of
incessant activity. On the other side, with an entrance on
William street, is the sample room and fancy goods depart-
ment. But it would be an endless task to enumerate these.
We can only give the principal headings : Perfumery, foreign
and domestic, of all the best brands, toilet articles, <fec. ; brushes,
artists' marking, painters', pencil, toilet, &c., of all conceivable
styles and qualities ; combs, buff, horn, ivory, India-rubber, &c. ;
instruments, physicians' articles, trusses, syringes, &c. ; India-
rubber goods of every description ; chemists' and druggists'
pottery and glassware, furniture articles, mortars, &c. ; druggists'
sundries, boxes, bronzes, flasks, glaziers' diamonds, drug mills
and tincture presses, inks, mirrors, tube and toy paints, pencils,
pill machines, soda water appurtenances, scales and weights,
chamois, split, and plaster skins, lint, corks, in fact every article
that is required for the perfect fitting up of a retail drug store.
We may also 'mention that they are the sole agents of
Beranger's French Balances, universally admitted to be the
most correct, durable, and elegant scales yet invented,
This imperfect sketch conveys but a very faint idea of the
magnitude of the business of the house, but the facilities they
possess for buying in the producing countries, joined to their
large capital and great practical knowledge, give them advan-
tages few in the trade have.
A machine which will make 100,000 slate pencils a day, has-
been invented by a Hartford, Ct., mechanic.
SAILER ATUS, BI-CARB. SODA, CREAM TARTAR,
YEAST POWDER.
He that neglects a blessing, though he want
No present knowledge how to use it,
Neglects himselC
BEAUMONT AND FLETCHER.
ANDREWS & CO., 136 & 138 CEDAR STREET, NEW YORK.
There is nothing like a spirit of enterprise and an ac-
commodating good will, to secure business
and prosperity. They always procure the
best of friends, and while the slow, careless,
and unamiable man is left behind, the active,
persevering, and 'courteous one distances all
competition.
Mr. Thomas Andrews, of this city, is a case in point. This
gentleman's career has been characterized by
a degree of prosperity seldom, if ever, attained
by one so young in years. From an unu-
sually low station in life, until as a printer's
boy he attained his first education, he has
gradually advanced in mercantile life, through
numberless trials and difficulties, by strict
probity, self-denial, and economy, until he stands at the head of
a new and important branch of trade the
largest of its kind in the Union.
Some fourteen years since, Mr. Andrews
originated in a small way, the supplying of
Wholesale Grocers with Bi-Carb. Soda, Cream
Tartar, and Sal Soda, which articles were in
light demand by that trade, being sold almost
exclusively by druggists. This succeeded, and he originated
EXCELSIOR
CARBONATE
SODA.
TILE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
and introduced for another firm Salicratus in one pound
papers. This was also adopted by the whole trade, and became
universal.
Mr. Andrews then pushed out on his own account, and met
with the most unscrupulous opposition from
those whom interest arrayed against him, and
after stemming the tide for eight years alone,
associated with him Mr. George F. Gantz,
whose mercantile education was acquired in
the house of II. M.. Schieffelin & Fowler.
And thus the firm is at present constituted.
About six years since this firm erected the
Jersey City Chemical works, opposite New
York.
These were constructed for the manufacture
of Salaeratus, Bi-Carb. Soda for Refining Ash,
&c., at a cost of $35,000. They occupy
seven lots, and possess facilities for refining and carbonizing
thirty tons per week, which is the ave-
rage product of these works.
The stores and office of this house in
this cjty are at 13G and 138 Cedar
street, known as the " Excelsior" Steam
Mills, where an extensive business is
transacted. Thomas Andrews & Co.
are largely engaged in the importation
and jobbing of the finest grades of Bi-
Carb. Soda, Cream Tartar, Soda Ash,
Sal Soda, Caustic Soda, <fec. Of Bi-Carb.
Soda, their sales have reached 30,000 kegs per annum ; of Sal
Soda, their sales average 25 tons per week; and of Cream
Tartar, perfectly pure, their sales average 1,000 pounds per
* SOAP,
-POWDER.
V Go.lbs.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
day. Of the article of Yeast Powder, they dispose of over
200,000 tins per annum. This "demand speaks for itself," as
their goods give universal satisfaction. The amount of cash
capital required for this large trade is over $75,000, while the
regular sales do not fall short of half a million of dollars annu-
ally. This much can be said of this house, they have always
studied the interest of their jobbing customers, and have never
interfered with retail trade.
The following comprises the lines of goods sold by this
firm :
"Golden Rule," "Paragon," and Excelsior Salaeratus (the
Best Dietetic), Pure Double Refined, and Soda
Salseratus, the various qualities of which are put up
in every conceivable style, the name of any firm
inserted on the labels and boxes. By this method
jobbers circulate their own name to their own trade.
Thomas Andrews' Excelsior Yeast Powder has
superseded nearly all the various preparations
intended for the effectual raising of bread, biscutt, &c. It is
universally admired, and is perfectly healthy
and dietetic.
Bi-Carbonate Soda, the best Newcastle
brands, in papers or boxes, or by 10 to 1,000
kegs, in store or to arrive. Also the " Frear's
Goose," made by the Jersey City Chemical
Works, sold at a less price than foreign, and warranted to give
satisfaction.
Perfectly pure Cream Tartar, prepared under the personal
supervision of the firm. No impurity in this valuable article is
permitted. For medical or family use, the Cream Tartar from
this house is unrivalled in its reputation.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
25
This firm has the largest stock of different brands .and tests
of Soda Ash, Caustic Soda,
&c. Agents of the Perm.
Salt Co. Concentrated Lye,
Soap Powder, Castile Soap,
Prepared Pot Ash, Pot and
Pearl Ashes, Indigo, Salt-
petre, Tartaric Acid, Rice
Flour, <fec. All these articles
guaranteed.
That a business to the
extent done by the above
firm should grow out of nothing but good judgment, tact,
and perseverance,
shows what can
be accomplished
in any depart-
ment of trade,
combined with
strict integrity
and straightfor-
ward dealing.
Remember the house of Thomas Andrews and Co., New York T
when writing out your order.
CULTIVATED WOMEN. Sheridan said, beautifully, " Women
govern us ; let us render them perfect. The more they are
enlightened, so much the more shall we be. On the cultivation
of the mind of women depends the wisdom of men. It is by
women that nature writes on the hearts of men."
2
TIN WARE.
Let not one look of fortune cast you down ;
She were not fortune if she did not frown :
Such as do braveliest bear scorns awhile,
Are those on whom at last she most will smile.
LORD ORRERY.
The annexed engraving represents J. D. Locke's manufactory
of PLAIN, JAPANNED, STAMPED and PLANISHED tin ware. The
idea of an establishment for the manufacture and sale of tin
ware is almost invariably associated in the mind of the general
public with the outside display of a number of articles of tin
and iron ; a few broken stoves on the sidewalk ; a dingy, dirty
back workshop, containing sundry piles of metals, a quantity of
dirty benches, with numerous queer-looking machines and tools
lying about promiscuously, finishing off with a sign outside of
, manufacturer of stoves, tin-ware, &c., with a P. S.,
Jobbing attended to, and pots and kettles to mend. Such was
formerly the appearance of many of the trade ; but the require-
ments of the age and the enterprise of our manufacturers have
changed all this now. About ten or twelve years ago planished
tin-ware was but little known in this country as a branch of
manufacture, our dealers being then entirely dependent on the
European market for their supplies ; at present we can manu-
facture this class of goods equal in quality and fineness of finish
to the English, and at a far less cost.
To give an idea of the extent the business has attained,
we will give a few statistics connected with this House. Mr.
J. D. Locke has been about thirty-four years in the business ;
some eight or nine years ago he built the main building, at
"Whitestone, Long Island, since which he has been making con-
tinual additions to it to meet the requirements of his increased
28 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
trade, and as the results of his enterprise, system, and strict
attention to business, he has been enabled to keep his whole
force of workmen, consisting of 125 to 150 hands, fully
employed all the past winter, and during the present dull times.
His annual consumption of tin is about 8000 boxes, manufac-
tured into all conceivable articles that this metal can be used
for ; the catalogue of these contains 130 pages, of which we
propose giving a synopsis.
Twenty-five pages enumerate fifty-three different articles of
japanned tin-ware, divided into hundreds of sizes and varieties.
Fifteen pages are devoted to the description of forty-five
articles of stamped ware, equally diverse in size and shape ;
two pages to lamp trimmings, and two to the varieties of tea-
trays and waiters. We next come to tin-ware proper occupy-
ing twelve pages, enumerating thirty different articles, with
almost ten times thirty different varieties. French-tinned
goods of all descriptions occupy four pages more. Planished
tin-ware embraciijg twenty-seven different articles occupies
twelve pages; while tinmen's tools and machines, occupying
thirteen pages, enumerate everything required by them in the
business. Of these latter articles the manufacturer in this cata-
logue says : " These machines are made of the best materials
that can be obtained, and in the best manner, with brass-wheels,
top-plates, and boxes with all the present improvements, to
which will be added every real improvement that can be
made." The remaining forty pages of the catalogue are taken
up with the enumeration of the immense variety of articles
comprised under the headings of, hollow-ware, housekeeping
hardware, silver-plated ware, Britannia ware, spoons, rolled
metal, castors, frames, lamps and candlesticks, ladles, beer-mugs,
spittoons, &c. &c.
From this brief resume some idea of the present extent of
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 29
this business may be formed, and those interested in it will
readily appreciate the labor required to bring it to such perfec-
tion. Mr. J. D. Locke has removed his warehouse from the
old stand in Water street to more commodious premises, at
No. 47 Cliff street (between Beekman and Fulton), New York,
where dealers will find as complete a stock as capital, enterprise,
and skill can produce, to be purchased on as advantageous terms
as any in the market.
NOTHING LIKE LEATHER. At a public sale of books, the
auctioneer put up Drew's " Essay on Souls," which was knocked
down to a shoemaker, who very innocently, but to the great
amusement of the crowded room, asked the auctioneer if " he
had any more works on shoemaking to sell."
YOUNG'S NIGHT THOUGHTS. " The title of my poem, Night
Thoughts," says Dr. Young, " is not affected, for I never com-
pose but at night, except sometimes when on horseback."
AN exhibition of pictures by modern artists has recently
been opened in Manchester, England, and among them are 246
works by French, English, and German artists : there were two by
Decamps, the celebrated French artist, which were painted just
previous to his death; b,ut there are no American names mentioned
among the artists who contribute the works for the exhibition.
Brave men bare their bosoms to their enemies ; fashionable
women to friends and enemies alike.
PARKS.
The Battery, fronting the harbor.
The City Hall Park.
St. John's Park, fronting St. John's Church, and bounded
by Hudson, Varick, Beach, and Laight streets.
Washington Square is bounded by Waverley place, M'Dougal,
Fourth, and Wooster streets.
Torapkins Square, formerly a military parade-ground, is on
the eastern side of the city, and is bounded by avenues A and
B, and by 6th and 10th streets.
Union Park is a beautiful oval area, at the head of Broad-
way, bounded by University place (which is called a continua-
tion of Broadway, at the Park), the 4th avenue, and 14th and
17th streets. Adjoining this park stands the Equestrian Statue
of Washington.
Stuyvesant Square, in front of the new St. George's church,
is between 15th and 17th streets.
Gramercy Park, bounded by 20th and 21st streets, and lying
between Third and Fourth avenues.
Madison Square, bounded by Fifth and Madison avenues, and
23d and 26th streets.
Hamilton Square, between the Third and Fifth avenues, and
68th and 69th streets.
Bloomingdale Square is between the Eighth and Ninth
avenues, and 53d and 57th streets.
Manhattan Square, between the Eighth and Ninth avenues,
and bounded by 77th and 81st streets.
Mount Morris, near Harlem, a rocky elevation in the centre
of a public square, between 120th and 124th streets, and
extending on each side of the Fifth avenue.
Central Park, bounded by Fifth and Eighth avenues, and
59th and 106th streets.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 31
High Bridge, 173d street, eleven miles from the City Hall.
Croton Reservoir, bounded by 79th and 80th streets, and the
Gth and 7th avenues.
New Receiving Reservoir, located within the Central Park,
O . '
fronting on 5th avenue, extending from 86th to 96th streets,
and contains 112 acres.
RAILROAD DEPOTS.
Albany and intermediate Places, via Hudson river railroad ;
Chambers street, c. Hudson ; Canal street, c. West, and 31st
street, n. 10th avenue.
Albany and Intermediate Places, via Harlem railroad ; 26th
street and 4th avenue, and Centre c. White street.
Boston, Dunkirk, and the West, via Erie railroad, foot of
Duane street.
Boston, via Fall River; steamboat route to Fall River,
where the railroad commences.
Boston, via Stonington antl Providence ; steamboat route,
from foot of Vestry street to Allen's Point, n. Norwich,
thence by railroad.
Boston, via New Haven and Hartford ; 27th street and 4th
avenue.
Easton ; by ferry, from foot of Cortlandt street to Jersey
city, where the railroad commences.
Greenpoint, and all the places on Long Island, from South
ferry, Brooklyn.
Newark, I'utiTson, and Morristown railroads, foot of Cort-
landt street.
Philadelphia, Washington, and all southern and southwestern
32 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
places ; foot of Cortlandt street ferry to Jersey city, thence by
railroad.
Philadelphia, via South Arnboy ; by steamer from Battery
to South Am boy, thence by railroad.
CITY RAILROADS.
Harlem, Fourth Avenue Railroad, from Astor House through
Centre, Grand, Bowery, 4th avenue, to East 27th street.
Second Avenue Railroad, from Peck slip through Pearl,
Chatham, Bowery, Grand, Allen streets, 1st avenue, East 23d
street, 2d avenue, to Harlem ; returning, through 2d avenue,
Chrystie, Grand^ Bowery, Chatham, Oliver, South streets, to
Peck slip.
Third Avenue Railroad, from Astor House through Park
row, Chatham, Bowery, 3d avenue to Harlem, returning same
route.
Sixth Avenue Railroad, from Barclay street, through Church,
Chambers, West Broadway, Canal, Varick, Carmine streets,
6th avenue, to West 44th street, returning the same way.
Eighth Avenue Railroad, from Barclay street, through
Church, Chambers, West Broadway, Canal, Hudson streets, 8th
avenue, to West 54th street, returning the same route.
jiSPFare on all the roads through the city 5 cents. On 2d
and 3d avenue roads, to Harlem, 6 cents.
OF 50,000 PERSONS insured in the London (Eng.) Accidental
Death Insurance Company, 22 were seriously injured by falls
on street slides in the course of a single fortnight. Three
adults are suffering with broken legs and two with severe spinal
injuries, the result of idle boys sliding on sidewalks.
ROOFING.
Labor is rest from the sorrows that greet us,
Rest from all petty vexations that meet us,
Rest from sin-promptings that ever entreat us,
Rest from world-syrens that lure us to ill.
MRS. OSGOOD.
The rapid increase of the population of large cities, and the
still more incredible increase of the population, by immigration
and otherwise, of these United States, has formed an incentive
for our people to exercise their inventive genius in supplying
this increase with the necessary food, clothing, and habitations,
by means of improved machinery and inventions suitable to
meet the increased wants as fast as they arise. Amongst these
new inventions must be classed, as a very important item, the
article of roofing. Shingle roofs were amongst the first used ;
earthen tiles may be classed next, and then siate and tin ; after
which, as a modern invention, comes the gravel roof. Now all
these roofs were, and are still, useful in their way, but they none
of them combine all the qualities requisite in a roof, the three
most important of which are, first, to be perfectly fire and water-
proof; secondly, not to be liable to injury from either heat or
cold ; thirdly, to be economic in cost ; and, lastly, to be dura-
ble and easily adapted to all kinds of roofs. It was reserved
for this generation to discover the means of combining all
these objects in one.
Some four years ago Messrs. JOHNS & CROSLEY, then of Brook-
lyn, afterwards of 510 Broadway, since removed, and at pre-
sent at 78 William street, New York, discovered the means of
forming a roof for any kind of building that should be fire-
proof, water-proof, time-proof, light, economic, and easily put on
by any mechanic. It is essentially, as its name implies, a
2*
34 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
Gutta-Percha Cement Roofing, being composed of gutta-percha
and india-rubber, combined together with various other ingre-
dients, forming a chemical combination unequalled by any arti-
cle for similar purposes ever produced. This Gutta-Percha
Cement in liquid form has been proved to be the cheap-
est and most durable coating for metals of all kinds of any
paint or composition in use, and for Tin and Metal Roofs
of all kinds it is invaluable. At first the public were incre-
dulous as to its qualities, as they generally are of most new
inventions; but by degrees their prejudice wore away, as
they began to experience the benefit of it by actual trial,
until at the present time it is recognised as an indispensa-
bility ; and as a further proof of the favor it has attained, we
may mention that they have applied it to over three thousand
buildings of various kinds in this city and vicinity alone, and
are also constantly receiving orders for it from all parts of the
United States, the Canadas, the West Indies, and South Ame-
rica, whilst thousands of dollars' worth of property have been
saved by its fire-proof qualities. So steadily and constantly has
the demand been increasing that they have been compelled to
enlarge their factory in Brooklyn three several times, until at
the present moment it covers over two acres of ground, and
Messrs. Johns & Crosley are now reaping the benefit of the
invention which cost them so much time and labor to perfect.
The Roofing consists of a Water-Proof Roofing Cloth, com-
bined with a first quality Roofing Felt, saturated with a compo-
sition of Gutta-Percha and India-Rubber, which not only pre-
serves the cloth, but renders it in the highest degree elastic, so
that shrinking of new roof boards will not injure it. This is to
be nailed to roof boards, or directly to old shingle roofs, and
then coated and finished with the Gutta-Percha Cement (a suf-
ficient quantity of which is always sent with the cloth to finish
the roof), and sanded as per directions ; thus giving a surface of
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 35
stone and at the same time an elastic body. This material
forms a perfectly water-tight roof as soon as applied, which is
not the case with the generality of composition roofs, it being
necessary with them to apply two or three t;oats of paint, and
wait four or five days for each coat to dry, thus occasioning a
great loss' of tirnoj and unnecessary labor and expense.
The Roofing is furnished complete, and prepared ready for
use (with full printed instructions for application), to those who
wish to apply it themselves for about one-third the price of tin.
The expense of applying it is trifling, as an ordinary roof can
be covered and finished tjie same day.
Such is a slight description and review of the qualities of this
improved roofing material. Should any party desire further
information respecting it, Messrs. Johns & Crosley will gladly
furnish it on application at their store, 78 William street, where
they also will be happy to show the numerous testimonials they
have received from the various parties who have this roofing
now in use.
Messrs. Johns & Crosley are also sole manufacturers of the
AMERICAN CEMENT GLUE, a most ^useful article, and the only
glue ever manufactured that will withstand water, for cement-
ing wood, glass, ivory, leather, china, marble, porcelain, alabaster,
bone, coral, &c., &c. It is highly spoken of by families using it.
Everybody knows the comfort of a spring, bed. Messrs.
Johns & Crosley have the agency of Ulmcr's Patent Spring
Bed Bottom, one of the most ingenious and cheapest luxuries
of the age. It was patented in October, 1859, and is much
appreciated by those using it for its <jn;ilifications, amongst
which may be classed the following :
First. It is simple, and easily understood.
Secoi/J. Any person can put them up, it being only neces-
sary to saw the end strip the necessary length, and screw it to
the bedstead.
36 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
Third. For comfort, ease, and elasticity it is not excelled by
any other bed bottom.
Fourth. Not easily getting out of repair, it is durable, and
will last a lifetime/
Fifth. It will fit any bedstead, by merely adjusting the ends
of the slats and end strips a frame not being necessary.
Sixth. You can arrange the head so that it will be higher
than the foot ; and when in use it is perfectly noiseless.
Seventh. Once on, vermin will not live in them, the vulcan-
ized rubber driving them away.
Eighth. Only one mattress is necessary.
Ninth. They are the cheapest bed bottom in the market,
being sold from Three Dollars and Fifty Cents to Five Dollars.
Tenth. By reason of these facts they are a commercial arti-
cle. They are packed in such a small compass, and cost so little
for freight, that they can become an article of trade.
Messrs. Johns & Crosley are now prepared to establish agen-
cies for the sale of this patent all over the United States and
Canadas, and invite country merchants to call* on them and
inspect it at their warehouse, 78 William street, New York.
IT is well known that several species of fish may be frozen
quite stiff, carried several miles, and when put into cold
water they will revive. Several artificial ponds have been
stocked with fish carried from a distance in a frozen state ; and
yet it is stated that the celebrated Dr. John Hunter, having
tried several experiments to restore frozen fish, always failed to
do so. A recent French experimenter in this line states that he
has discovered the reason of this, lie asserts that the tissues
of fish .and frogs may be frozen and the creatures may be restored
to activity, but if their hearts become ice-chilled they never can
be reanimated.
BILLIARDS.
What is title ? what ia treasure ?
What is reputation's care ?
If we lead a life of pleasure,
'Tis no matter how or where.
BURNS.
Throughout the entire range of elegant amusements there is
none which, in the average of general excellence and the num-
ber of faculties both physical and mental which it calls into
play, can compete with the game of billiards. That amuse-
ment is certainly the best, the most pleasurable, which occupies,
that is to say amuses, the greatest number of organs and facul-
ties at one time, to a point which
fully exercises without straining
or fatiguing them. As a practical
illustration of our assertion, let us
consider certain popular amuse-
ments and the relative play they
give to the various portions of the
player's organization. The game
of ten-pins, for instance, calls into requisition the physical quali-
ties merely, and even then not all of them. Quoits are on a
par with ten-pins. Both of these games soon ' cease to be
amusing, for neither of them supplies amusement for the men-
tal faculties ; and as these faculties, in a man of properly deve-
loped intellect, are the most imperative in their demands for
occupation or entertainment, the game which ignores them
ceases any longer to be amusing when the need of physical
exercise is no longer pressing, and the stimulus of a mental
direction is lacking.
The game of billiards requires the lively, continuous, and
38 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
intelligent exercise of the various groups of intellectual organs,
and a promptness, decision, vivacity, and steadiness in the phy-
sical machinery to carry out the conceptions of the mind. The
intellect is kept in healthy exercise by the continual demand
upon it for rapid combinations to meet the various exigencies
caused, by the ever changing and ever new positions of the
balfe. The eye is kept continually at work, rapidly estimating
distances, taking points, and describing angles, and enabling the
mind to judge the momentum necessary to be applied to the
ball for the production of desired results. The arm must in-
stinctively recognise what the mind requires of it, and rapidly
and exactly execute it. All the' faculties are kept in continuous
play ; every muscle has its share in the game. The left hand
has its office to perform as well as the right ; the dorsal column
is extended, ployed, curved ; the legs have their full share of
work. Billiards, then, exercising as it does, to a higher average
degree than any amusement yet invented, both the mental and
physical qualities of our organization, combining the intellectual
and the material in the relative ratio which they should hold to
each other in a well balanced organization, is, in our opinion,
the first of amusements the amusement most befitting "a well
balanced organization," that is, a complete man.
The game of billiards, according to all historical probabilities,
is of French origin, but in no country in the world is it played
to the same extent as in the United States. In fact, so univer-
sal has it become among us that it may now be called, par ex-
cellence, the American national amusement. Its peculiar excel-
lences, its happy combination of the scientific and the mecha-
nical, the contemplative and the constructive, especially recom-
mend it to the particular idiosyncrasy of the American. It is
a remarkable fact that while we probably owe the invention to
France, and the vast improvements in the machinery of the
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 39
game are of American origin, England has made no contribu-
tion to its furtherance of perfection in any way, and billiards is
still played in the latter country in the same plodding way in
which it was played by fine old English gentlemen some sixty
years ago. The machinery of the game has reached its highest
degree of perfection in this country. It was completely revolu-
tionized some seven years since by MICHAEL PHELAN'S admira-
ble invention the combination cushion, and the various im-
provements in shape, style, &c., since made by that gentleman,
to whom all lovers of scientific billiards owe a debt of lasting
gratitude. These cushions, which have been patented and uni-
versally adopted in this country, and for which a patent has
also been granted by the French government, at once obviated
all the inconveniences of the old style cushions, their incorrect-
ness of angle, their liability to variation from atmospheric
changes, <fec., and made billiards almost an exact science. Mr.
PHELAN not only effected a material revolution in billiards ; he
accomplished their moral and social elevation. He convinced
the public that billiards was not a game for loafers or black-
legs, but for ladies and gentlemen ; nd it is, in the main, to his
exertions the fact is due that the billiard table has now become
a domestic institution, and billiards the favorite amusement of
the cultivated of both sexes.
PUELAN'S Model Table, with Combination Cushions, is manu-
factured solely by Messrs. PHELAN & COLLENDER, at their
extensive manufactory, 63, 65, and 67 Crosby street. The manu-
factory is by far the most extensive and complete establishment
of the kind in the world. It is five stories in height, seventy-
five feet front, and one hundred feet deep. From roof to foun-
dation, every portion of the immense building is occupied with
the various operations connected with the diverse articles of
billiard manufacture. Every operation is performed by the
40 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
newest inventions in machinery, worked by a steam-engine of
twenty-six horse power, built expressly for the firm. The base-
ment, which is well adapted to the purpose, is used exclusively
for marble work. Here the beds for tables are formed and
polished. The first or main floor is the exhibition and sales-
room, where at all times may be found a great variety of tables
finished in various styles, which, in point of exquisite beauty of
workmanship, cannot be equalled. Connecting with this floor
also are two offices, both of which are neatly furnished and
tastefully arranged. The second floor is the fitting room, where
the various parts of the tables are put together. Above this is
the machinery room, where can be seen a large amount of use-
ful and valuable machinery, such as planing, sawing, tenoning,
mortising, and moulding machines. The fourth floor is the
veneering room, provided with a steam apparatus for veneering.
The fifth floor is the varnishing and finishing room. Connecting
. with the principal workshops are adjoining rooms, used for such
purposes as painting, making cushions, &c. The establishment
throughout is complete in every respect, affording the proprie-
tors every opportunity for the manufacture of tables on the most
extensive scale.
All the various articles of billiard machinery are to be found
at the Phelan Factory. Among the novelties lately introduced
by Messrs. PHELAN & COLLENDER are the Self-adhesive Cue
Leathers, prepared so that they can be put on the cue as easily
as a postage-stamp on a letter, dispensing with screws, glue, or
cue- wax.
THE way to render amusements innocuous is not by violent
prohibition of them, but by surrounding them with such chasten-
ing and refining influences that they shall lose all tendency to evil.
SHIP BREAD AND CRACKERS.
Let us then be up and doing, ' .
With a heart for every fate ;
Still achieving, still pursuing,
Learn to labor and to wait.
LONGFELLOW.
HOW OUR SOLDIERS AND SAILORS ARE FED.
Everybody, we expect, has often noticed in passing through
the streets of our cities the signs of " Ship Bread and Cracker
Bakeries," but few, we doubt, have ever had the curiosity to
inspect the interior of them, nor have the large majority a
very clear idea of the amount of ingenious machinery employed
in this important branch of industry ; and we might go even
farther and say, that to most it will be news to learn that
nearly the whole of the vast quantity of bread required for
our Army, Navy, Volunteers, and mercantile marine, is made
almost entirely by_ machinery, little or no manipulation being
required in its manufacture, and that little, merely as guides and
aids to the machinery.
We recently had the pleasure of inspecting one of the largest
establishments of the kind in JNew York, or in fact in the coun-
try, which we propose in the present article describing, prefac-
ing it, however, with a slight review of the early history of the
House, for although a business of colossal magnitude a the
present day, it was not so in its earlier stages.
Ephraim Treadwell's Sons is the present title of the firm ; the
partners being Win. E. Treadwell, Wm. Hustace, and Chas. J.
Harris. The father of W.E.T , Ephraim Tread well, founded the
establishment in 1820, in Dey street, between Greenwich and
Washington streets. At that time the business, being small*
42 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
consuming but about five barrels of flour daily, the work was
then altogether done by hand labor. Several machinists at
this period turned iheir attention to the invention of machinery
for the use of cracker bakers, and E. T. was among the first to
encourage the introduction of the then novelty. Any new
machine that promised to save labor and to attain the desired
end, was always carefully investigated, and if the trial proved
satisfactory, was certainly adopted by him. In this way, by
constantly studying all the new inventions that came under his
notice, and being naturally of a mechanical turn of mind, he
by degrees invented several valuable improvements, amongst
which, as the most important and useful, may 'be mentioned an
improvement in the cutting machine, and two more valuable
ones in the arrangement of ovens, one of which, patented in
1853, the present firm has now in use. In 1829 they removed
to the corner of Warren and Washington streets, where they
still continue manufacturing at this establishment the finer
qualities of crackers, such as Sugar, Boston, Oyster, and Water
crackers, and Soda, Milk, Wine, Maple, Extra Butter, and Aber-
nethy biscuits. It was here that steam power was first intro-
duced into the business, the new motor and increased power
being required to supply the demand which had increased from
the daily consumption of five barrels of flour in 1820 to fifty
barrels in 1840. In June, 1853, they had again to look for
further facilities to enable them to fill their orders, and engaged
the premises No. 244 Front street, where they now manufacture
the largest part of the ship bread and crackers, such as are
required for the use of the army, navy, and mercantile marine.
This increase has probably given them larger manufacturing
facilities than any other establishment, as they are now using
in their two factories about two hundred barrels of flour daily.
Two hundred barrels of flour, each containing one hundred and
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 43
ninety-six Ibs., to be made up into crackers and biscuits of all
conceivable shapes, forms, and sizes in one day ! We confess to
know little or nothing of the mysteries of the culinary, confec-
tionery, or bakery arts and sciences, but we have a pretty vivid
recollection of having at times seen a few pounds of flour con-
verted into bread, cakes, pies, puddings, etc., all of which took
a long time to perform ; and judging from our experience in
this respect, we could scarcely realize how the said two hundred
barrels of thirty-nine thousand two hundred Ibs. of flour could be
converted into good wholesome bread in twelve hours, but we
have now seen it all, and will try to describe the process for the
benefit of those who may not have been as fortunate. As an
illustration, let us take the ship bread establishment at 244
Front street. This building is five stories high, about twenty-
seven feet front, and ninety feet deep, and has been constructed
expressly for the purpose of the business. All the fire required
for the boilers and ovens, or heating purposes, is in the basement,
and to prevent any possibility of danger from this source, the
floor and ceiling covering it is composed of iron girders arched
in with brick covered with cement and then planked, forming
a compact fire-proof flooring. Passing from the front to the
' rear of the first floor, we come to the mixing room, on either
side of which are two immense troughs, in which the ingredients
are poured for forming the dough. Here a skilful workman is
required it being most essential to have the dough the exact
consistency ; when this is attained it is passed up an inclined
plane into a box, where some very beautiful machinery thoroughly
kn%ads it and passes it through a receiver to the floor below ;
the mass then passes through a pair of rollers and comes out a
thick sheet of dough ; from here it is carried by hand to another
set of rollers gauged to flatten it to the exact thickness required ;
these rollers deliver a continued sheet of dough about eighteen
44 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
inches in width on to a revolving band which carries it forward to
the cutting machine, but previous to getting there it requires a
little dry flour which the machine dredges over it on its passage,
and that it may be perfectly distributed, a set of brushes are
made to revolve back and forth over it. The cutting machinery
contains the dies that mark, shape, and cut the crackers the
required form, rising and falling at the same speed as the dough
progresses, and at each motion cutting, marking, and shaping
from twelve to twenty crackers. In the case of round crackers or
ship bread, the surplus dough is gathered up by a boy as it passes
to the end of the revolving band, where the bread is dexterously
caught on a board and carried to the oven. So* rapidly are all
these operations performed that it requires one man's constant
attention to catch and remove the bread to the oven, a distance
of only some few feet.
The oven is one of the most perfect and ingenious pieces of
mechanism ever invented. The external structure is of brick-
work, forty-two feet long, twelve feet wide, and ten feet high.
The heat is applied by means of hot air flues, of which there
are sixteen, and this heat is furnished by two furnaces in the
front of the oven : the first furnace supplies the eight flues
which run at the lower part of the oven, and the second one
the eight in the upper part ; by this arrangement the same
heat is applied to the upper as to the lower part of the bread
to be baked, thus insuring an evenness of baking on both
sides.
What is generally understood as the bottom of the oven
when stationary, but what in this case is known as the bakteg
surface, consists of an endless perforated wire-band extending
the whole width and length of the oven, and then passing over
cylinders which are kept revolving by steam power. There is
an entrance at one end of the oven in which the bread is placed,
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 45
and it requires one man to be very active to keep it supplied ;
it then passes slowly, the speed being regulated according to
the requirements of the style of bread being baked, to the other
end of the oven, where stands the foreman of the establishment
with a monstrous rake drawing it from the oven into large
baskets as fast as it arrives. The foreman is stationed here, as it
requires a man of experience to know when the bread is just
perfectly baked, and by means of wires attached to some very
delicate machinery, he can in a moment regulate the speed of
the oven to the greatest nicety. The bread is now finished,
and the reader can imagine how quickly, when we tell him
many barrels have been made while we have been noting down
these items. But to illustrate it more thoroughly, it requires
about ten minutes to roll a barrel of flour off the side-walk, mix
it, knead it, roll it, cut it, shape it, bake it, and pack it, and
then turn it out as a barrel of crackers. Such is one of the
benefits of steam.
After the crackers have arrived at this stage, many would
suppose that they were finished ; but such is not the case.
From the basement the baskets are passed by means of steam-
elevators to the third, fourth, and fifth floors, where the contents
are spread on the floor the whole length and breadth of the
building, to the depth of six or eight inches, presenting a pecu-
liar appearance to the unaccustomed eye, and are there left
till thoroughly dry, as without this precaution they would not
keep when packed. From these floors men are constantly
employed packing and preparing them for transportation. The
packing process, simple as it may seem to some, requires consi-
derable practice to be expert at. The men, seated with piles of
crackers on either side and the barrel placed horizontally before
them, seize and pack with incredible rapidity, in layers, each
oracker separately. This house manufactures a large amount
46 THE UNION SKETCH-BOOK.
of ship biscuit for the use of the British troops and sailors sta-
tioned or calling at the British West India Islands. All this
bread is packed in bags, being the usual manner of packing in
England ; but the quality made here is better, and the price
lower than it can be obtained for, from that country, hence the
trade tha has sprung up here. Besides exporting the soldiers'
bread, the residents of Barbadoes and other West India Islands
highly esteem some of our finer kind of crackers, and a large
trade is carried on by the firm in this branch of the business.
At their capacious double store in Warren and Washington
streets, as before mentioned, the finer kind of domestic crackers
and biscuits are manufactured, but the difference of manufac-
ture simply consists in the mixture of the ingredients, the same
kind of machinery and the same kind of oven is employed,
while the same never-ceasing activity is displayed ; each employee
having to be very active to meet the demands of the ever-rest-
less steam horse. It will not be necessary, therefore, to enter
into a detail of the premises, but simply to mark the peculiar
features, one of which is, that owing to its larger area there is
generally stored here a vast amount of flour for consumption,
and a quantity of bread to supply customers ; but at the present
moment, although the flour department is tolerably full, the
bread department, owing to the large increased demand, pre-
sents simply " a beggarly account of empty barrels" waiting to
be filled. In the house on Washington street, in a small room
by themselves, are piled up a number of barrels containing
what is technically called sweepings ; they comprise the broken
crackers, cracker dust, and such like, and are sold at cheap
rates to farmers for feeding pigs and fowls, and are eagerly
bought ; thus nothing in this vast establishment is lost, but all
is made subservient to man's use.
Such is a very imperfect illustration of the cracker bakery
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 47
business, but it may give an idea of Low a business, when con-
ducted by energy, perseverance, system, and attention, may be
. successful in rising to the front ranks ; and as a further proof of
the efficacy of these all-important business qualifications, we may
mention that during the whole forty years this house has been
in business, notwithstanding all the panics and commercial dis-
asters, of which there have been so many in that period, they
have always preserved an untarnished credit.
Messrs. E. Tread well's Sons, with their present facilities, can
execute orders or contracts to any amount, either for govern-
ments or merchants ; and the quality of their manufacture will
speak for itself by the reputation it has acquired all over the
world.
PETROLEUM. An important discovery in regard to the prac-
tical uses of Petroleum or rock oil now found in such quanti-
ties, has been made by Mr. John Lamb, a tanner of Pennsylvania.
Since August he has been using the oil in his tannery, as a
substitute for fish oil, with most astonishing success. Hides
tanned with it have been exhibited to practical leather-dealers
from Pittsburgh and Boston, and a quantity sent to the eastern
markets, with entire satisfaction. It makes a cleaner and
smoother finish than the fish oil, fills up instead of opening the
pores of the leather, so as to make it almost water-proof, and
gives it the finish of the finest calf-skin. It is also a superior
article for mixing blacking, having the quality of cutting the
lamp-black. The mell does not remain after the dressing pro-
cess is completed. The oil is used in the crude state, costing
one-third the price of fish oil.
CIGARS, WINES, BRANDIES, &c.
Oh ! grant me, Heaven, a middle state,
Neither too humble nor too great ;
More than enough for nature's ends,
With something left to treat my friends.
THOMAS O. L7TTLE, 99 LIBERTY STREET, NEW YORK.
This house possesses peculiar facilities for supplying both
domestic and imported cigars, and also for cigars made here of
the best Havana tobacco. Having agents in Cuba, they can
always obtain the best kind of leaf for manufacturing, and also
the best cigars in that market. Mr. LITTLE has been over
twenty years in the business, and has therefore attained that
experience which enables him to purchase to advantage, both as
regards quality and price ; and, doing a heavy trade, can sell to
equal advantage to the buyer.
In the domestic department his facilities are equally as good.
His store in Liberty street is five stories high, the whole upper
four stories being used for manufacturing, which, when in full
blast, gives employment to over two hundred and fifty hands.
On the first floor is the warehouse, counting-room, <fec. In this
warehouse are samples and packages of every description and
quality of cigars, while the basement and sub-cellar are filled
with the raw material, which, notwithstanding their capacity,
are constantly being emptied and replenished.
In connexion with the cigar business, T. Gr. L. is the sole
agent for the Cavalier and Green Seal Champagne, which has
attained such a high reputation both in Europe and this coun-
try. Connoisseurs want no commendation of this wine. He
is also agent for El. Sol. Cognac Brandy, which, although a
comparatively recent brand, has yet already "attained a strong
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 49
hold on public favor, and is esteemed by judges most highly
for its purity and piquant flavor.
Country merchants visiting this city, and requiring these
articles, we recommend visiting 99 Liberty street (west of
Broadway), where they can buy on favorable terms, and have
the advantage of a large assortment to select from.
HORSES AND CATTLE IN THE WORLD.
An illustrated natural history of the animal kingdom has
just been published by S. G. Goodrich. It has 2,400 engravings.
It is a highly useful work. Among other information abound-
ing in it, it contains the following, which is an estimate of the
number of horses in the world. From this we extract the fol-
lowing :
The general estimate has been eight to eighteen horses in
Europe to every hundred inhabitants. Denmark has forty-five
horses for every hundred inhabitants, which is more than any
European country. Great Britain and Ireland have 2,500,000
hoiscs; France has 3,000,000; Austrian empire, exclusive of
Italy, 2,600,000 ; Russia has 3,500,000 ; the United States have
5,000,000 horses, which is more than any European country ;
the horses of the whole world are estimated at 57,420,000.
Russia has 22,000,000 cattle ; Great Britain and Holland have
8,000,000; Austria has 19,000,000; France 8,000,000; United
States of America have 22,000,000. The whole world is esti-
mated to contain 210,000,000. It is supposed that one-third of
them are killed annually, so that we have about 280,000,000
pounds, 70,000,000 skins, 140,000,000 horns, 280,000,000 feet
annually to be converted into beef, tallow, leather, combs, glue,
etc.
3
PHOTOGRAPHY AND THE FINE ARTS.
Look here upon this picture, and on this ;
Two simple efforts of our modern art ;
See, what a finish marks this manly brow ;
Each play of feature, every thought itself;
The sun-like flashing of the rolling eye,
The lips which almost seem to part and speak,
To give the world assurance of their life.
SHAKSPEARE.
The immense progress this country has made in mechanical
and industrial pursuits during the last decade, has been the
admiration of the world, hut the progress in the arts and sci-
ences is evn more remarkable. To what does our country
owe this rapid advancement? Doubtless in the first place to
the rapid development of our material wealth ; and secondly to
the impetus given to foreign travel by the improved, speedy,
and safe modes of modern conveyance. A journey across the
Atlantic a few years ago was a great feat ; now, thanks to steam,
it is simply a pleasant little excursion.* Our wealthy merchants,
knowing of the great treasures of art, the accumulated product
of the brains of thousands during many centuries, existing in
Europe, with that enlightenment and liberality which charac-
terize them as a class, thought no better use could be made of
their money than themselves and families to visit these relics
of the past. They went, and they saw; and they came back
sadly convinced, that in this respect .their country was far
behind Europe. But that was no reason it should remain so.
Having once seen these beautiful works both ancient and
modern, it was natural they should appreciate them, and desire
their country to excel in that respect, as much as she does in
manufactures. They therefore liberally encouraged all their
countrymen and women whose works showed genius or talent,
and to this encouragement and appreciation we are indebted
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 51
for our Churches, Powers, Miss Hosmers, and the other glorious
workers in the realms of art. It was to those who are sneer-
ingly alluded to as "our fashionable aristocrats," more than to
any others, that we owe our rapid advancement, for although
genius is indigenous to all countries, its growth is always slow,
when it is not appreciated and encouraged. Miss Flora McFlim-
sey may perhaps require an immense amount of baggage to
transport her habiliments, and then have " nothing to wear," but
may not this perpetual longing for something new, be the natural
result of her appreciation of the " beautiful !" If our limits per-
mitted, we think we could make a good argument on the sub-
ject. But our present purpose is to speak of that branch of
the fine arts which was introduced to the world some thirty
years ago by M. Daguerre in the form of the daguerreotype.
At the time of their introduction they were looked on as won-
derful productions, and rose rapidly in public favor. The
appreciation they met with, gave an incentive to further
improvements, and the original daguerreotype was rapidly
followed by the photograph and other improvements which
have continued up to the present day, now employing a whole
army of artists in producing the most finished specimens of
this most beautiful art. Amongst those who have contributed
very largely to these improvements, and whose enterprise has
placed them in the front ranks of the profession, must be
ranked the firm of Messrs. C. D. Fredericks <fc Co., who have
recently opened their new Gallery at 587 Broadway. This
gallery is one of the most perfect of the kind in the country ;
all the modern improvements, and all that science could sug-
gest and experience devise, have been adopted, totally regard-
less of expense to make it complete, and as it possesses some
novel and peculiar features we purpose giving a brief descrip-
tion in this paper.
The building is five stories high, 100 feet deep, and
25 feet frontage. The front entrance takes in the first
52 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
and second stories to the depth of 12 feet from the sidewalk,
and is formed by an arch, 29 feet high, on either side of which
are glass cases filled with samples of photography, etc.; a glass-
door beyond takes us to the main picture gallery. Here we
have a feast for the eye and for the mind. Raised up pro-
minently are life size pictures of persons now figuring in the
foremost stages of public life, amongst which are the portraits
of Genls. Scott, Morris, and Beauregard, Valentine, the
esteemed clerk of the Common Council, the Captain General
of Cuba (Serrano) and lady, Mad. La Grange, Joseph Hoxie,
and others, too numerous to mention, but all life-like and
finished in the highest style of art. Interspersed with these are
smaller portraits of well-known characters, as well as some per-
fect bijoux of landscapes in photography ; all these must be seen
to be appreciated. But while thus catering to the eye, the ani-
mal comforts are not forgotten ; the vast gallery is abundantly
furnished with sofas, fauteuils, etc., the whole of the furniture and
decorations being arranged with an artist's eye, all in perfect
harmony. At the extreme end of this gallery is the staircase
ascending to the second story ; this staircase is one of the fea-
tures of the establishment, and was designed especially by
Messrs. Fredericks to obviate the objections ladies have to
ascend an abrupt stairway in a public building, and they have
succeeded perfectly in their design. On the second floor are
situated five artists' studios, the ladies' dressing-room, and in
front the ladies' parlor, both luxuriously furnished ; attached to
which is a promenade gallery, under cover, where the ladies
can view the processions often passing along Broadway, or the
ever-restless panorama which is always there. These are
designed for their exclusive use, the male bipeds being
rigidly excluded from them. At night this floor is lighted by
four magnificent chandeliers. Once more ascending, we come
to the photograph room, which contains one of the largest
skylights in the United States, being twenty-two feet high by
twelve feet wide ; attached to this are the artists' operating
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 53
rooms, and in the front part are three studios, occupied by the
artists in oil, pastel, and water colors. As much water is
required, they have here two large tanks, one holding five
hundred and twenty-five gallons, which, when full, weighs
four thousand Ibs. ; and to prevent leakage, these tanks are
bolted together, instead of being nailed, as is ordinarily the
case. On the next floor is the daguerreotype room, and the
artists' manipulating rooms. Every one knows a daguerreo-
type room, therefore we need not describe it, otherwise than to
say it is in perfect keeping with the rest of the establishment
and as the manipulating rooms are always kept dark, we
cannot tell much about them, nor do we advise any one to
visit for himself, as they always possess a most disagreeable
odor of chemicals, which we at least are not desirous of often
inhaling. With another slight ascent we get to the negative
room, containing twenty thousand negatives; these are the
photographs on glass from which the picture you have, dear
reader, is taken, and from which an almost indefinite number
may be taken. Passing' on we come to the printing-room,
where the negatives are transferred a very pretty process
but like the definition once given to metaphysics, " being a
thing we don't understand ourselves, we can't describe it to you."
Having now got to the top of the building, we descend to
take a peep at the basement, and we see two large heaters for
heating the building in winter ; a pump of very simple con-
struction and action, for pumping the water to the upper
floors; sundry tanks, in which the water is kept constantly
flowing, used for some of the processes required in the art ; a
number of empty cases, and other rubbish lying around; and
we should not have cared for our visit but that we came at
last to a neatly fitted-up room at the rear end, occupied as a
store room ; in this we found some most beautiful specimens
of workmanship, amounting to thousands of dollars, in the
shape of cases, frames, lockets, brooches, and other material,
from all parts of Europe and America. We have thus par-
54 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
tially described some of the prominent features of Messrs.
Fredericks' establishment, but \ve have left one to the last, as
being the most peculiar, at the same time the most admirably
adapted one of the whole. We allude to the lighting of the
gallery at night. In the portico affixed to the ceiling is a
reflector (Wy herd's patent) thirty-five inches diameter, having
forty-five burners, throwing a brilliant light on everything
below, and forming a sun-flower in shape, having a beautiful
appearance ; in the inside are fourteen branches, pendent from
the ceiling,. to which is connected a continuous pipe of an oval
form, running the whole length of the gallery, containing one
hundred and twenty-five jets. These jets throw a brilliant
continuous flood of light on the pictures, and present a splen-
did coup cFoeil ; in fact, we may say it is about the best
lighted gallery we have seen.
Of course an establishment of this magnitude requires a
considerable number of assistants. Messrs. Fredericks & Co.
engage the best of artists, and always have an agreement with
them for three years ; they have now two in oil, two in pastel,
four in India ink, two in water colors, and twelve photo-
graphers, daguerreotypists, and printers, besides eleven other
assistants. Their business is conducted in the most liberal
manner, as they never ask a deposit when an order is left with
them, although they have often executed orders that have
never been called for. Their enterprise has extended so far,
that they have a partner residing in Paris, who keeps them
advised of all improvements, and sends them all the novelties.
It was this spirit of enterprise that enabled them to be the
first to introduce the art, as at present it is, into this country,
and we are glad tp see that the public have appreciated and
recognised their efforts. Those who have never visited
Messrs. C. D. Fredericks & Co.'s gallery, at 587 Broadway,
we recommend to do so at their earliest convenience, as it is
open free till nine o'clock at night, and when they have done
it they will thank us for the advice.
AMERICAN GUTTA PERCHA ROOFING CO.
When fiction rises pleasing to the eyo,
Men will believe, because they love the lie ;
But truth herself) if clouded with a frown,
Must have some solemn proofs to pass her down.
CHURCHILL.
No want has been more generally felt than that of an Eiidur-
ing, Elastic, Fire-Proof Roofing, the cost of which shall be
such as to bring it within the reach of all. Shingles of the
best quality form a roof that lasts a long time ; but the danger
from fire renders them unsafe in cities and towns, while the
repairs necessitated by the warping and cracking of the shin-
gles are a source of considerable annoyance and expense.
Again, shingles require a steep roof, thus increasing the amount
of surface, and consequent cost.
Roofs of tin, iron, zinc, or other metal, have failed to answer
the demand. They are expensive, and soon become leaky from
expansion and contraction, caused by extremes of heat and
cold. This separates the joints and cracks the metal surfaces.
In process of time, also, these metal roofs rust- through. Paint
is an outside protection, but' needs renewal every year or two ;
and with even this protection the dampness collected inside the
building rusts the metal from beneath.
A large variety of composition roofs have been invented to
meet this general want. The principal ingredient in all, or
nearly all, of these, is coal tar or asphaltum. Both of these
are worse than useless for the purpose. They contain an acid
which corrodes the fabrics in contact, and in a short time de-
stroys the roofing material itself. Under the heat of the sun,
also, the material melts, a portion of it running off, causing a
most disagreeable odor, familiar to all who have used this roof-
56 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
ing. The residuum forms into a dry, scaly substance, which is
totally incompetent to protect from leakage.
THE AMERICAN GUTTA PERCHA ROOFING COMPANY possess
the only patent right to the use of gutta percha in roofing, and
are the only ones whose roofs can be guaranteed durable and
entirely free from leakage. Several other parties have adver-
tised gutta percha roofing, but without any right to the use of it.
Their roofing is coal tar under another name. The roofing
manufactured by the above company contains no coal tar or
asphaltum, or other substance of injurious or perishable charac-
ter. The Gutta Percha Cement forms a preservative of the
highest and most lasting quality, whether in new roofs or ap-
plied to metal roofs to protect them from leakage. It is much
cheaper than metal or tin roofs, and much better. It forms an
elastic body which no heat of the sun will melt. It is equally
invaluable for car and. steamboat decks. On cars its elasticity
preserves it from the damage liable to other roofs in use. No
degree of cold will cause it to crack. From its character it can
be applied equally well to flat or steep roofs, according to the
taste of those building. It forms a very light roof.
In applying it, a compact saturated cloth is first laid down
and tacked. This cloth is manufactured expressly for the pur-
po.ie, and is completely water-proof^ being saturated with the
Gutta Percha Cement in the manufacture. When the cloth is
tacked down two coats of the Gutta Percha Cement are applied
to it, and covered with marble dust, which gives a beautiful
surface nearly white, as well as making the roof fire-proof.
This roof will last longer without repair than any other in use.
The agents of the company in New York are Messrs. FORBES
& WILLIS, 73 South street. This roofing has been introduced
but a comparatively short time in this city, but it is rapidly
gaining in popularity, having achieved a decided success in Cin-
cinnati, St. Louis, Chicago, Louisville, Cleveland, <fcc., where it
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. x 57
has been for some years in use, and is pronounced the best roof-
ing material yet invented. It is doubtless destined, from its
three great qualities of durability, lightness, and economy, to
effect a revolution in the roofing business and supersede all
other material.
FORBES & WILLIS, 73 South street, New York, sole agents
for the American Gutta-Percha Roofing Company in the State
of New York. Cheap, durable, fire-proof Roofing. Leaky
roofs repaired with Gutta-Percha Cement. .
HOW COFFEE CAME TO BE USED.
It is somewhat singular to trace the manner in which arose
the use of the common beverage of coffee, without which few
persons, in any half or wholly civilized country in the world
now make breakfast. At the time Columbus discovered Ame-
rica, it had never been known or used. It only grew in Arabia
and Upper Ethiopia. The discovery of its use as a beverage is
ascribed to the superior of a monastery in Arabia, who, desi-
rous of preventing the monks from sleeping at their nocturnal
services, made them drink the infusion of coffee, upon the
reports of shepherds, who observed that their flocks were more
lively after browsing on the fruit of that plant. Its reputation
spread through the adjacent countries, and in about two hun-
dred years it had reached Paris. A single plant, brought there
in 1714, became the parent stock of all the French coffee plan-
tations in the West Indies. The Dutch introduced it into Java
and the East Indies, and the French and Spanish all over
South America and the West Indies. The extent of the con-
.sumption now can hardly be realized. The United States alone
annually^ consume it at the cost, on its landing, of from fifteen
to sixteen millions of dollars.
3*
THE PHOTOGRAPHIC ART.
Can gold calm passion, or make reason shine ?
Can we dig peace or wisdom from the mine ?
"Wisdom to gold prefer ; for 'tis much less
To make our fortune than our happiness.
YOUNG.
J. GURNET AND SONS.
In no department of the arts and sciences has the genius of
man been more fully developed than in that which pertains to
the art of Photography. Twenty or twenty-five years ago,
when the art was first introduced, we fijid the crude and im-
perfect daguerreotype being looked upon by the wondering
public as a great phenomenon, and the production of portraits
by aid of the Camera as a complete triumph of genius. And
yet, although so few years have elapsed, see the wonderful
change ! The photograph of to-day is no more to be com-
pared with the daguerreotype of the past than is a gas-light
to the sun.
It must not be supposed that the improvements were effected
in a moment, or were the work of one individual ; on the con-
trary, they were the work of many, and required much patient
persevering labor to attain their present perfection. To Mr.
J. Gurney, more than to any other artist, we are indebted for
many desirable improvements which he is still continuing. As
an evidence of his desire to keep pace with the improvements
of the age, he has recently fitted up at great expense the new
white marble building, No. 707 Broadway, which for elegance
and convenience is unsurpassed in the world, about which we
propose giving a few details.
Mr. Gurney's rooms were first opened in 1840, at' the time
when the art was in its infancy, and were opened previous to
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 59
any others now in existence ; during this period of twenty
years he has devoted his entire attention to the perfection of
the photographic art, inventing many improvements himself,
and advancing large sums of money to others to assist them in
demonstrating their supposed discoveries. Indeed, so entirely
and enthusiastically was he attached to his art, that he invited
and eagerly listened to all suggestions, going to the expense of
experimenting on them whether they promised successful results
or not, and by this means has often attained vastly different
results from what he expected in commencing the experiment.
On entering his present establishment you pass through the
beautiful reception room on the first floor, then up one flight of
stairs to the exhibition gallery. This is furnished in the most
elaborate manner, and adorned with the productions of some
"of the best American and foreign landscape painters. Here
likewise may be seen a large collection of photographs finished
in every size and style; among which are those of some of
the most eminent persons of the day. Next follow the daguer-
reotype and photograph operating rooms, both of which are
under the personal supervision of Mr. Gurney, and close to
these come the artists' studios in oil paintings, and the pastel
studios where artists of the first distinction labor for the per-
fection of art.
The particular styles of pictures Mr. G. is now producing are
as follows, viz. :
PHOTOGRAPHS. From miniature to life-size finished in oil,
pastel, water-colors, India ink and Crayon, by a corps of
talented artists.
IMPERIAL. Retouched and plain photographs.
MINIATURES IN OIL. For beauty, delicacy, and finish, are
unequalled.
IVORYTYPKS. This new and . beautiful style of portraiture
60 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
has all the correctness of a plain photograph, combined with
the finish of the most delicate miniature on ivory.
DAGUERREOTYPES In the usual artistic styles.
PHOTOGRAPHIC VISITING CARDS. A unique and beautiful
article, to which ladies' attention is especially directed.
Old Daguerreotypes of deceased persons can be copied by
the photographic process, enlarged to any size, and colored in
any style equal to those made from life.
Messrs. J. Gurney and Sons' Gallery, at 707 Broadway, is
open (free) daily till nine P.M., where they invite the public to
inspect their very large collection of photographs, and we can
conceive of no place where a half hour could more pleasantly
or profitably bfe spent.
PRECIOUS METAL PRODUCTION. The value of the production
of precious metals, per annum, in different countries, is as
follows: United States, $80,000,000; Great Britain, $100,000,-
000; Russia, $25,000,000; France, 15,000,000; Austria,
$2,500,000; Prussia, $20,000,000; Belgium, $1,0000,000;
Spain, $7,500,000 ; Sweden and Norway, 5,000,000 ; Saxony,
$1,500,000 ; Italy, $2,500,000 ; Switzerland, $390,000 ; Aus-
tralia itself produces 41,250,000 ; Mexico and Chili, $45,000,-
000 ; the rest of South America, $7,500,000. According to
these figures the annual precious metal crop of Europe, America,
and Australia, approximates $380,000,000.
M. LALANDE, the French astronomer, during the whole time
of the Revolution, confined himself to the study of that science.
When he found that he had escaped the fury of Robespierre, he
jocosely said, M I may thank my stars for it."
A DIRECTORY TO THE PRINCIPAL OBJECTS OF
INTEREST IN NEW YORK.
Academy of Design (National), 58 East Thirteenth street.
Aged Indigent Female Society, 139 East Twentieth street.
Almshouse, Blackwell's Island.
American Bible House, occupies the block of ground bounded
by the Fourth avenue, Astor place, Third avenue, and Ninth
street, and is six stories high, with cellars and vaults.
American Anti-Slavery Society, 138 Nassau street.
American Baptist Home Mission Society, 115 Nassau street.
American Bible Society, Fourth avenue and Astor place.
American Bible Union, 350 Broome.
American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions,
Bible House, Astor place.
American Congregational Union, 348 Broadway.
American Geographical and Statistical Society, University
Building, University place.
American Home Mission Society, Bible House, Astor place.
American Institute, 35 I Broadway.
American Missionary Association, 48 Beekman.
American Museum, Broadway, c. Ann street.
American Seaman's Friend Society, 80 Wall.
American Sunday-School Union, 375 Broadway.
American Temperance Union, 149 Nassau.
American Tract Society, 150 Nassau.
American and Foreign Christian Union, 156 Chambers.
American and Foreign Bible Society, 115 Nassau.
Apprentices' Library, 472 Broadway.
Arsenal of the State of New York, Fifth avenue and Sixty-
fifth street.
Arsenal (City), Elm, c. White.
62 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
Assay Office, 20 Wall.
Astor Library, Lafayette place, n. Broadway.
Baptist Historical Society, 115 Nassau.
Bellevue Hospital occupies a considerable part of the area
bounded by Twenty-sixth and Twenty-eighth streets, 1st avenue.
Bloomingdale Insane Asylum, south of Manhattanville,
between One Hundred and Fifteenth street and 'One Hundred
and Twentieth street.
Board of Domestic Missions of Dutch Reformed Church,
337 Broadway.
Board of Publications of Dutch Reformed Ch., 337 Broadway.
Brooklyn Athenaeum, Atlantic, c. Clinton.
Brooklyn Lyceum, Washington, c. Concord.
Brooklyn Post-office, Fulton, n. City Hall.
Central Education Society, Bible House.
Children's Aid Society, Clinton Hall, Astor place.
City Hall, in the Park.
City Hospital, 323 Broadway, op. Pearl.
City Prison (Tombs), Centre, c. Franklin.
City Sunday-School Society of M. E. Church, 199 Mulberry.
Colonization Society, Bible House, Astor place.
Colored Home, First avenue and Sixty-fourth street.
Colored Orphan Home, Fifth avenue and Forty-second street.
Columbia College, Fourth avenue and Fiftieth street.
Congregational Union, 348 Broadway.
Cooper Institute, Fourth avenue and Eighth street.
Custom House, c. Wall and Nassau streets, extending through
to Pine street.
Deaf and Dumb Asylum, Washington Heights, near Fort
Washington, 9f miles from the City Hall, and commanding a
splendid view of the Hudson .river.
Debtors' Prison, 22 Eldridgc.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 63
Eye and Ear Infirmary, Second avenue and Thirteenth street.
Female Missionary Society of M. E. Church, 200 Mulberry.
Five Points House of Industry, numbers 155, 157, and 159
Worth street, a short distance north of the City Hall.
Free Academy of the City of New York, Twenty-third street,
c. Lexington avenue.
Gallery of Fine Arts, Second avenue and East Eleventh street.
General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen, 472 Broadway.
Geographical and Statistical Society, University Building,
University place.
Halls of Justice and City Prisons, cover the block of ground
bounded by Centre, Leonard, Elm, and Franklin streets front-
ing on Centre.
Hall of Records, is situated in the Park, a short distance
northeast of the City Hall.
House and School of Industry, 100 West 16th street.
House of Refuge, Randall's Island.
Home for the Friendless, 32 East 30th street.
Institution for the Blind, occupies the whole block between
33d and 34th streets, and Eighth and Ninth avenues.
Irish Emigrant Society, 51 Chambers street.
Ladies' Home Mission of M. E. Church, .200 Mulberry.
Leake and Watts Orphan Asylum, lllth street and Eighth
avenue.
Lodging House for Newsboys, 128 Fulton.
Lunatic Asylum, 117th street, n. Tenth avenue.
Lyceum of Natural History, Medical College, 14th street, n.
Third avenue.
Lying-in Hospital, 85 Marion.
Magdalen Female Benevolent Society,- Tenth avenue and
Eighty-eighth street.
Marine Temperance Society of Port of New York, 190
Cherry street.
64 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
Mariners' Family Industrial Society, 322 Pearl.
Mechanics' Institute, 20 Fourth avenue.
Mechanics' and Tradesmen's Society, 472 Broadway, and 32
Crosby street.
Merchants' Exchange occupies the entire block of ground
between Wall, William, and Hanover streets, and Exchange
place.
Methodist Book Concern, 200 Mulberry.
Mercantile Library, Clinton Hall, Astor place.
Missionary Society of M. E. Church, 200 Mulberry.
Nursery for Poor Children, 223 Sixth avenue.
New Courthouse, at the northeast corner of the Park.
New York Hospital, Broadway, occupies most of the block
between Worth and Duane streets.
New York Association for Improving the Condition of the
Poor, Bible House, Astor place.
New York Bible Society, 7 Beekman.
New York Bible and Common Prayer Book Society, 55 East
Thirteenth street.
New York City Temperance Alliance, 114 Grand.
New York City Tract Society, Nassau, c. Spruce.
New York City Sunday-School of M. E. Church, 200 Mul-
berry street. t
New York Historical Society, University Buildings.
New York Marine Bible Society, 80 Wall.
New York Port Society for Promotion of the Gospel among
Seamen, 80 Wall.
New York Sunday-School Union, 375 Broadway.
New York Typographical Society, 3 Chambers.
New York University, Wooster street, c. Waverley place.
New York Woman's Hospital, 83 Madison avenue.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 65
New York Young Men's Christian Association, Clinton Hall,
Astor place.
New York Orphan Asylum, Bloomingdale and Seventy-
first street.
Penitentiary, Blackwell's Island.
Presbyterian Domestic Mission Society, 23 Centre.
Presbyterian Education Society, 23 Centre.
Presbyterian Foreign Mission Society, 23 Centre.
Presbyterian Publication Society, 23 Centre.
Prison Association of New York, 15 Centre.
Protestant Episcopal Domestic Mission Society, Bible House,
Astor place.
Protestant Episcopal Foreign Mission Society, Bible House,
Astor place.
Protestant Episcopal Sunday-School and Church Book So-
ciety, 637 Broadway.
Protestant Episcopal Tract Society, 55 East Thirteenth street.
Protestant Half Orphan Asylum, 142 Sixth avenue.
Public School Society, Grand, c. Elm.
Roman Catholic Half Orphan Asylum, Mott, c. Prince.
Rotunda, near the northeast corner of the Park.
Rutgers Female Institute, 244 Madison.
Sailors' Home, 190 Cherry.
Sailors' Snug Harbor, Office, 115 Wall.
Seventh Day Baptist Mission Society, 9 Spruce.
Seventh Day Baptist Publication Society, 9 Spruce.
Stuyvesant Institute, 659 Broadway.
Surrogate's Office, 3 Hall of Records, and Register's Office,
1 and 2 Hall of Records.
Tract Society of Methodist Episcopal Church, 200 Mulberry.
Trinity Church, Broadway.
Union Theological Seminary, 9 University place.
THE GROVER AND BAKER SEWING MACHINE COM-
PANY'S ESTABLISHMENT.
The fame that a man wins himself, is best ;
That he may call his own. Honors put on him
Make him no more a man than his clothes do,
"Which are as soon ta'en off.
MlDDLETON.
The Grover and -^s=ss^ -
Baker Company is
one of the oldest and
most successful of.
the originators and
directors of the busi-
ness. It entered the I
field at an early day, i
when sewing ma-j
chines were almost]
in their first stages;
when their manu-
facture was more of
an experiment than
anything else; step
by step it has pro-
gressed in the deve-|
lopment of the trade
and the perfecting
of its machines ; tak-_
ing advantage of all
possible improve-
ments in the make, j
adaptation, and mo-'
dification of the ma--
chinery, it has en-j
joyed the exclusive'
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 67
benefits of the inventive genius of one person of the firm (Mr.
William 0. Grover), by which it has been placed in possession
of privileges and patents that have given its machines peculiar
and exclusive excellences, until now, we find the company
strong in resources, quick in the enterprise of competition, exer-
cising a marked influence on the times by its taste and liberal-
ity, and diffusing good results to society, to morals, and to the
happiness of our kind.
The building erected by the Company, for its exclusive use,
is situated in Broadway (No. 495), in the St. Nicholas Hotel
block, between Broome and Spring streets, and on the prome-
nade side of the great thoroughfare. It has a front of twenty-
five feet, with a depth of two hundred feet, extending through
to Mercer street. In this fine area are comprised some of the
most beautiful rooms to be found upon the " street of superb
stores."
Thus, in the basement is the Packing Room, two hundred
feet long by twenty-five feet in width, while the Repair Shop
extends out beneath the walk and street, giving a fine room
twenty-five by twenty-five feet.
The first floor, Sales Room, is one hundred and fifty feet
long, by twenty-five in width. Back of it is a Fiitmg-up
Room, fifty by twenty-five feet, fronting on Mercer street.
The second floor comprises the main Tuition Room (called
the Ladies' Parlor), one hundred and fifty feet in length by
twenty -five in width. Back of this room is the. Ware Room
for Cabinets and tables, fifty by twenty-five feet.
The third floor comprises a room twenty-five by fifty feet,
devoted to storage and packages awaiting orders.
These leading rooms are beautifully and tastefully furnished.
AY alls are in hard finish ; floors are carpeted with tapestry,
velvet, and Brussels ; mirrors adorn the sides ; a piano is at
68 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
hand ; sofas are disposed around in a most inviting manner ;
and a well-chosen library offers its treat to all, while machines
of every pattern, size, and style, occupy the floors in long lines
and numbers which bewilder the eyes. The whole is lighted by
four sky-lights or " wells," three of which are seventeen feet in
length, by eight feet four inches in width, oval-shaped. They
are guarded by heavily built railing. From the first to the
second floor springs a fine flight of stairs. The salesroom is
lighted, at night, by seven richly mounted chandeliers, of six
burners each. Upon the right side of this room, as you enter,
is the counter and goods' shelving, where the purchaser obtains
needles, silk, thread, etc., etc. everything being kept on sale
which may be required for the successful working of the
machine. Beyond the counter are the desks of the book-
keepers, cashier, advertising agent, etc. Machines occupy the
left side and centre of the " floor, running through the whole
length. On the second floor, or Ladies' Parlor, are machines
disposed to suit the convenience of the operators. It is in this
room that persons buying a machine are taught how to work it
successfully. Skilful and obliging lady operators are in attend-
ance, to render all necessary assistance, and an hour or two
generally suffices to initiate the most inexperienced into the
mysteries of the whole thing practice, then, only being neces-
sary to make a rapid and good sewer.
When the Sewing Machine was first invented there was a
great outcry against it it would ruin the poor seamstress, thou-
sands of tailors, shirt-makers, and others, who get their living by
the needle, would be thrown out of employment, and the work,
would only be imperfectly done. But how different has been
the result ! Instead of ruining the seamstresses, it has benefited
them ; instead of throwing out of employment it has engen-
dered more, and by reason of its great power of rapid produc-
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 69
tion it has placed all articles of clothing within the reach of
the poorest. In fact, it has proved one of the greatest bene-
factors of the age.
The Sewing Machine, as originally invented, formed what is
known as the shuttle stitch. The insecurity, want of strength,
and elasticity of this stitch early attracted the attention of Mr.
W. 0. Grover, who, after long, patient, and persevering labor,
patented in 1851 their celebrated lock-stitch, which achieved
the desired results, combining strength, security, and elasticity of
seam. Messrs. Grover and Baker, however, were not satisfied
with their first attainment; they still persevered in their
researches, and in 1852, '53, and '58, obtained patents for some
further improvements. But their crowning glory was the
obtaining a patent for the " Noiseless " Machine, which runs
with such ease as to do away with the iritating rumble and
clicking that had previously rendered the work-room of a large
factory a pandemonium of bewildering noise, and the presence
of a machine in a private house little else than a nuisance when
in operation.
Messrs. Grover and Baker's Machines seem pretty nearly to
have reached a perfect point ; but should the requirements of
the times suggest any new improvements, the ingenuity of the
firm, we doubt not, would soon attain them.
The mercurial electric light, now in use in England, is said to
be the strongest and purest light in the known world the near-
est approach to sunlight that modern science has yet produced.
It is caused by the application of electricity from a voltaic bat-
tery to a thin stream of quicksilver, which is heated to a white
heat ; as impossible to look at with the naked eye, as the sun
at noonday.
COAL OILS.
Thus every object of creation
Can furnish hints for contemplation ;
And from the most minute and mean
A virtuous mind can morals glean.
GAY'S FABLES.
The manufacture of coal oils is comparatively of recent ori-
gin in this country, but yet, notwithstanding its youth, there are
already some colossal establishments for the manufacture of
Petroleum, Kerosene, Paraffine, &c., one of the largest of which
we purpose describing in the present paper, believing it to pos-
sess features of much interest to the general public.
The establishment we allude to is situated on Newtown Creek,
known by the name of the New York Kerosene Oil Company,
Messrs. COZZENS <fc Co. It is about one mile from the Tenth-
street Greenpoint ferry, on the Flushing Railroad, which
runs through the centre of their works. On the lower side of
the railroad are situated the distilling works, and on the upper,
the refining, finishing, <fec.
On entering the lower side we first encounter a number of
queer looking brick structures, which we are told are meer-
schaums. They are eighteen in number, and are charged with
twenty-five tons of coal each ; the coal is then subjected to a
gradual heat from above about 700 temperature which
extracts the oil from the coal, forcing it into a condenser, from
whence it passes in a crude state, a thick black liquid mass,
into the various reservoirs that are sunk all over this part of
the factory. In the neighborhood of these meerschaums are the
still-houses, containing eighteen stills, into which the erode oil
is pumped. In the whole of the works, there are fifty-five stills
used for the different refining processes. Having learned so
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 71
**
much of the process, we proceed down towards the creek. Here
we find a fine wharfage front of seven or eight hundred feet,
with schooners and barges loading and unloading. On the east
end is situated the coal yard, occupying nearly an acre and a
half of ground. Over this is erected a series of scaffolding,
composed of very strong timbers, forming three railways, at
a height of thirty feet from the ground, on which the coal
is hoisted from the boats by means of a steam engine, and
then distributed all over this space. The requirements of the
factory are about thirty thousand tons of coal a year, and to
keep a supply always ready to hand, necessitates the piling up of
coal on the wharf; hence the use of this scaffolding and rail-
road.
From the wharf we retrace our steps till we come to a bride
building situated near the railroad, where are six Worthington
pumps, worked by steam, employed in pumping the crude
oil from the reservoirs on this ground to the reservoirs on
the refining ground, to be again pumped into the different
receptacles for its thorough purification into kerosene. This
process employs seventeen steam pumps. From hence we cross
the railroad and enter the finishing ground. Here, in conse-
quence of the increased demand of late years, vast improve-
ments have taken place and are still in progress. We first come
upon the coopers' shop, a large, commodious structure, where all
the barrels are made and coopered. Next we come to the
alkali house, a small building, but important in the manufac-
ture. We then pass on to the purifying house, containing eight
agitators. This is the first process of purification through
which the crude oil passes. It is here pumped up from the
reservoirs by the steam pumps into the agitators, which are
large tubs about fifteen feet high by eight feet in diameter, capa-
ble of holding three thousand gallons each ; in the centre of
72 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
p
these is a kind of fan, or screw, worked by steam power. After
the oil is pumped in certain chemicals and acids are mixed with
it, the steam is then turned on, and the whole mass is kept in a
perpetual whirl. We looked into one while it was in this active
state, and smelt kerosene for a week afterwards. The engine
that supplies the power required for the whole of the depart-
ments on this ground is one hundred horse-power, and is one
of the simplest, although the most perfect, ever used in a manu-
facturing establishment. It has three boilers,, and the chimney
one hundred and twenty-five feet high is a fine specimen of
brick-work, and forms a landmark for the surrounding country.
After passing through the first process of refinement it is
sent into other stills, where it undergoes a still further process
tff purification, and is finally deposited, by means of more
steam-pumps, in the four receiving tanks, each capable of holding
seven thousand gallons, contained in the two receiving houses.
From hence it is barrelled for market. This barrelling process,
however, is much indebted to the inventive genius of the age for
new improvements. By the old process the requirements of the
house would take twenty men to do what six or seven can do now.
A very ingenious contrivance in the shape of a meter (Worth-
ington's patent), is fastened on to each of the spigots of the finish-
ing tanks, by which means the oil is measured into the barrel as
fast as it can run out, never failing to indicate the true measure.
This invention the firm has found most useful, not only for home
consumption, but in filling the large orders they have for Aus-
tralia. The oil shipped for Australia, owing to the length of
voyage, has to be packed in five-gallon tin cans, two placed in
a box, and had they to fill them by the ordinary method, the
time consumed in doing it would be three times as long, and
the price of the article advanced in equal proportion.
We have thus given a very hasty description of the manu-
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 78
facture of kerosene, but to better understand the extent of this
department of labor, we will give some details connected with
this one house alone. Their various buildings cover an area of
about eight acres, and these buildings are rendered as nearly
fire-proof as possible. They have two tanks erected, capable of
holding in each ninety thousand gallons of oil, and have five
more building of the same capacity, with one capable of hold-
ing one hundred and fifty thousand gallons, to provide for all
future wants. They can at the present moment turn out twelve
thousand gallons of oil per day, and when the tanks before
mentioned are finished they will be enabled to. keep on hand
nearly a million gallons. Two hundred men are constantly
employed here, besides others occasionally engaged. The thirty
thousand tons of coal used annually employ a large number
more in its production and shipment, as does also the shipment
of the outproduced, which, taken together, will sum up a very
large total of labor employed.
Having thus far only spoken of coal oil or kerosene, our
article would be incomplete did we not mention two other arti-
cles introduced by this manufacture, one called Paraffine and.
the other Sludge. The first is the residuum found after the
refining process of the oil has been gone through. It is a hard
wax-like substance found in particles, which are taken to the
paraffine house and there placed between heavy canvas cloths
and subjected to a heavy pressure by means of steam machi-
nery, to express any remaining oil and unite the particles in
a solid mass. These are sold to candle manufacturers, and pro-
duce a candle equally as pure and n light as brilliant as any
wax. The second is the residuum of the original crude oil, as
we said before, called sludge. This sludge is collected from
the tanks, placed in a receptacle used for the purpose, and car-
ried from thence by meaas of pipes to a large furnace where it
4
74 THE -UNION SKETCH BOOK.
is burnt up. This operation does not require any coal for its
consumption after the first application of heat, as it possesses
the power of producing in a state of fusion the caloric for its
own consumption. We cannot help thinking that this is a total
waste of the raw material, but as the business is only in its
infancy we may hope to see this remedied some day.
In conclusion, we think this manufacture, being now esta-
blished as one of the necessities of the age, must always pro-
gress. The oils are valuable as solvents and lubricators, as well
as for photogenic purposes. In the latter use, they give a
whiter and more brilliant light than any fixed or fat oil, and
are produced at much less cost than oil can be had for. Fish
and lard oils are nearly superseded by them, and while they
thus prevent the cost of such from rising to any unusual extent
in the market, they are themselves controlled by the prices of
these oils ; and it only requires sufficient attention to be
bestowed on its purification, so as to free it from its creasote
impurities, to render it one of the most pleasing and brilliant,
as well as the safest and most economic sources of light in
those situations where gas is not desirable or attainable.
The counting-house of Messrs. COZZENS & Co. is at 89
Water street, New York, where all the general business of the
firm is transacted, to which address all orders should be trans-
mitted.
AN editor in a country town, who was warmly pressed
during a contest to give his vote to a certain candidate, replied
that it was impossible, since he had already promised to vote
for the other. " Oh," said the candidate, " in election matters,
promises, you know, go for nothing." " If that is the case,"
rejoined the elector, " I promise you my vote at once."
POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES.
The Superintendent of the Census has prepared the following
table of the census of the several States and Territories, the
slave population, and the number of Representatives to which
each State is entitled :
Free Slave 87th Congress
Population. Population. Representatives,
Maine 619,958 6
New Hampshire 326,072 3
Vermont .*. 316,827 3
Massachusetts 1,231,494 10
Rhode Island. 174,621 1
Connecticut 460,670 4
New York 3,851,563 30
Pennsylvania 2,916,018 23
New Jersey 676,084 6
Delaware 110,548 1,805 1
Maryland 646,183 85,382 5
Virginia 1,097,373 495,826 11
North Carolina 679,965 328,877 7
South Carolina 308,186 *407,185 4
Georgia 615,336 467,461 7
Florida 84,885 63,809 1
Alabama 520,444 435,473 6
Mississippi 407,051 479,607 5
Louisiana 354,245 312,186 4
Arkansas 331,710 109,065 3
Texas 415,999 184,956 4
Tennessee 869,528 287,112 8
Kentucky 820,077 -225,490 8
Ohio , 2,377,917 *' 19
Indiana 1,350,802 11
Illinois 1,691,238 13
Missouri 1,085,599 115,610 9
Michigan 734,291 6
Wisconsin 768,485 6
Iowa 682,002 5
Minnesota 172,793 1
Oregon 52,566 1
California 384,770 3
Kansas 143,645 1
Total of States 27,385,439 3,999,853
233
76 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
POPULATION OF THE TERRITORIES.
Nebraska 28,893
New Mexico 93,024
Utah 50,000
Dakotah 4,839
Washington 11,624
District of Columbia 75,321
Total of Territories 263,701
RECAPITULATION.
Free population in all States and Territories in United States 27,649,140
Slave population 3,999,853
Total population 31,648,993
DISCOVERIES BY THE MICROSCOPE.
*
Leuwenhoeck tells us of animated insects seen with the
microscope, of which twenty-seven millions would only be equal
to a mite. Insects of various kinds are observable in the cavi-
ties of a common grain of sand. Mould is a forest of beautiful
trees, with the branches, leaves, flowers, and fruit fully discerni-
ble. Butterflies are fully feathered. Hairs are hollow tubes.
The surface of* our bodies is covered with scales like a fish ; a
single grain of sand would cover 150 of these scales, and a sin-
gle scale covers 600 pores. Yet through these narrow openings
the sweat exudes like water through a sieve. How minute then
must be its particles ! The mite makes 500 steps in a second.
Each drop of stagnant water contains a world of animated
beings, swimming with as much liberty as wliales in the sea.
Each leaf has a colony of insects grazing on it like oxen in a
meadow.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 77
POPULATION OF THE EARTH.
x
The Directors of the Statistical Bureau of Berlin furnish the
following curious statement : The population of the whole
earth is estimated to be 1,288,000,000, viz. Europe, 272,000,000;
Asia, 755,000,000 ; Africa, 200,000,000 ; America, 50,000,000 ;
and Australia, 2,000,000. The population of Europe is thus
subdivided : Russia contains 62,000,000 ; the Austrian States,
36,398,620 ; France, 36,039,364 ; Great Britain and Ireland,
27,488,853; Prussia, 17,089,407; Turkey, 18,740,000; Spain,
17,518,000 ; the Two Sicilies, 8,616,922 ; Sweden and Norway,
5,072,082 ; Sardinia, 4,976,034 ; Belgium, 4,607,066 ; Bavaria,
4,547,239; the Netherlands, 3,486,016; Portugal, 3,471,199;
the Papal States, 3,000,000; Switzerland, 2,494,500; Denmark,
2,468,648. In Asia, the Chinese empire contains 400,000,000;
the East Indies, 171,000,000; the Indian Archipelago, 90,000,-
000 ; Japan, 35,000,000 ; Hindostan and Asiatic Turkey, each
15,000,000. In America, the United States are computed to
contain 23,191,876; Brazil, 7,677,800; Mexico, 7,661,520.
In the several nations of the earth there are 335,000,000 of
Christians, of whom 180,000,000 are Catholics, 80,000,000
Protestants, and 76,000,000 followers of the Greek Church.
The number of Jews amounts to 5,000,000 ; of these, 2,890,750
are in Europe, viz. 1,250,000 in European Russia; 853,304 in
Austria; 234,248 in Prussia; 192,107 in other parts of Ger-
many; 62,470 in the Netherlands; 33,953 in Italy; 73,995 in
France ; 35,000 in Great Britain ; 70,000 in Turkey. The
followers of Asiatic religions are estimated at 600,000,000 ;
Mohammedans at 160,000,000; and Heathens (the Gentiles pro-
per) at 200,000,000.
IN the tongue of the right whale there are from 300 to 800
gallons of oil !
SOMETHING ABOUT DRY GOODS.
Of all the passions that possess mankind,
The love of novelty rules most the mind ;
In search of this, from realm to realm we roam,
Our fleets come fraught with every folly home.
FOOTE.
At what time the trade in dry goods became a separate branch
of merchandise, it is difficult to determine. The Romans had
separate mechanical and mercantile fraternities, from which the
modern guilds traceable to the tenth century have descended.
But the dry goods trade as at present organized is of quite
modern origin, neither the importer, commission merchant,
jobber, nor retailer, having until the last few years confined him-
self exclusively to the sale of dry goods. This may be easily
accounted for by considering the immense increase during the
last few years in the consumption of these goods, which has at
the present moment rendered this trade, considered as a branch
of commerce, one of the most important of any now existing
in the country. It controls a greater amount of capital, employs
a larger number of persons, and distributes a greater value of
commodities than any other branch of mercantile pursuit.
Take for example the marble palaces of the dry goods mer-
chants of New York, and then go through the cities, towns,
and villages in the length and breadth of the country, and you
will find the list of dry goods merchants far larger than that of
any others engaged in the sale of any other specialty of mer-
chandise. In the smaller towns and villages the name of
" merchant" is always associated with one who, whatever else
he may sell, is sure to have a good assortment of dry goods.
There are certainly "merchant princes" among those engaged
in other branches of business, but in capacity, energy, and
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 79
aggregate wealth, the dealers in dry goods as a class are
emphatically the merchants of our day and country.
An assortment of dry goods may be classed under five
principal headings, viz. woollens, cottons, silks, linens, and mis-
cellaneous, but these embrace an almost exhanstless variety of
articles, and it requires a long apprenticeship in each branch to
attain anything like an accurate judgment to meet the require-
ments of the public as to quality and style, and in this respect
is much more difficult to acquire than any other mercantile or
mechanical pursuit
To enable our readers more thoroughly to understand this,
we will give them the benefit of our experience on a recent
visit paid to one of the largest dry goods merchants of New
York. We allude to the firm of C. W. & J. T. Moore & Co.,
at Nos. 326, 328, and 830 Broadway. The senior partner of
this house has been in the business forty years, but the firm
under its present title was not formed until 1836, and is now
composed of the following members : Chauncey W. Moore,
Jno. T. Moore, Wm. M. Bobbins, Emmor K. Haight, Joseph
N. Ely, Chauncey W. Brown, Joseph B. Lockwood, and Wm.
R. Dean.
They are importers and jobbers of foreign and domestic silks,
cloths, vcstings, dress goods, prints, hosiery, linens, white goods,
every description of American heavy staple goods, and last,
although not least, that " olla podrida" known by the title of
Yankee notions. The house they occupy is on the site of the
old Broadway Theatre, built and owned by Judge Whiting, five
stories in height, of white marble, in the purest style of Norman
architecture. It has a frontage of seventy-five feet on Broad-
way, extending backwards one hundred and seventy-five feet,
and then at right angles in the form of a T spreading to Worth
street with a frontage of seventy-five feet, running from the
80 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
main store fifty feet, while the extension to Pearl street is
seventy-five feet, with a frontage of twenty-five. The whole
space embraced in this immense area is eighteen thousand seven
hundred and fifty feet. But this detail of the measurement
fails to give any idea of the splendid "coup d'ffiil" presented of
the interior of the store as viewed from the rear of the main
building, showed most strongly by the powerful vertical light
of the immense skylight. Looking towards Broadway between
two rows of Corinthian iron pillars supporting the ceiling, forty-
three in all, and said to "be the largest ever used for the purpose,
we see a most tempting display of goods. There are the tasty
dainty fabrics of muslin ; the innumerable variety of dress
goods, formed of every conceivable material, derived from all
parts of the world; the inimitable silks, the products of the
French looms ; the solid, durable articles of England ; the cheap
and useful goods of Germany, and the thousand and one varie-
. ties of American manufacture in dry goods. Turning our eyes
towards Worth street we see still more goods, and on the north
side, commanding a view of the whole store, a line of busy
clerks inclosed in a glass case, where all the records of the
transactions of the house are kept. This is the counting house ;
beyond we have several other partitions, which are the private
offices of the members of the firm, while at the extreme end is
a luxuriously fitted up parlor, furnished with the daily papers,
and every convenience for writing, for the use of the customers
of the house. Turning our eyes once again in the opposite
direction towards Pearl street, we come upon the Yankee notion
department ; but we can't describe them Yankee notions can't
be described let the reader imagine every article he has any
idea of, and he will be a long way off from the true conception
of the variety of Yankee notions. They must be seen to be
imagined. In this wing there is also a very commodiously
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 81
fitted up room for the use of the employe's of the house for
Dreading or writing during their leisure hours. We have thus
briefly and imperfectly described the first floor of this establish-
ment, but our impression on entering was that it would be
appreciated as a perfect paradise by the Misses Flora MoFlimsy
and friends, could they only gain access to it, but they are
rigidly excluded. Facing each entrance is a notice, no goods
sold at retail. We think this a piece of cruelty on the part
of Messrs. Moore & Co., deserving the severest reprehension,
which should be immediately attended to by "the woman's
rights convention," who might pass a series of resolutions con-
demnatory of such cruelty.
Having done the first floor, we will now descend to the base-
ment. Under the sidewalk, which is lighted by means of
illuminated tiles, and also on the Broadway front of the build-
ing, is the white and domestic goods department, whilst in the
rear, extending from Pearl to Worth street, two hundred feet
in length, are the packing rooms. Here all goods are received,
charged, packed, and shipped, and this room is a scene of con-
stant activity, the admirable system enforced in the house
enabling the clerks to get through an amount of work which
would appear incredible to the uninitiated. From the basement
we descend to the sub-cellar, which is used for the storage of
whole packages, and is capable of containing many thousands.
Under the sidewalk in Worth street are the boilers employed
for heating the whole of the building, and for propelling the
engines employed in elevating. The whole three floors are
lighted by gas, of which there are employed three hundred
burners. The fixtures on the first floor are of peculiar beauty,
harmonizing with the general architecture of the building, and
when the whole forty chandeliers on that floor are in use, with
their one hundred and sixty jets, they form a perfect blaze of light.
4* "
82 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
Our friends in the country may from this hasty sketch gather
a partial idea of the magnitude of this trade, and should they^
visit this city they can gain a better knowledge by inspecting
for themselves. We can insure them a courteous welcome by
Messrs. Moore & Co., from whom we received every information
on the subject their experience commanded.
SIXPENCE A DAY. There is now an old man in an almshouse,
in Bristol, England, who states that for sixty years he spent
sixpence a day in drink, but was never intoxicated. A gentle-
man who heard this statement, was somewhat curious to ascer-
tain how much this sixpence a day, put by every year, at 5 per
cent., compound interest, would amount to in sixty years.
Taking out his pencil, he began to calculate putting down tb^e
first year's savings (365 sixpences) 9 2s. 6d., he added the
interest, 9s. ld., and thus went on, year by year, until he
found, that in the sixtieth year the sixpence a day reached the
startling sum of 3,225 16s. 8d. Judge of the old man's sur-
prise when told, that had he saved his sixpence a day, and
allowed it to accumulate at compound interest^ he might now
have been worth the above noble sum ; so that, instead of
taking refuge in an almshouse, he might have comforted himself
with a house of his own, costing 700, and fifty acres of land,
worth 50 an acre, and have left the same as a legacy among
his children and grandchildren.
LAW POINT. What is the difference between an attempted
homicide and a hog butchery ? One is an assault with intent
to kill, and the other is a kill with intent to salt.
PIANO-FORTES.
There's music in the sighing of a reed ;
There's music in the gushing of a rill ;
There's music in all things if men had ears ;
Their earth is but the echo of the spheres.
BYRON.
In no one branch of the industrial arts has greater improve-
ment been made, or more demand created, than in the article
of piano-fortes. This is a gratifying evidence that while our
country has been increasing enormously in wealth, we have still
the time and the inclination to .study the fine arts; that, how-
ever much the American may love the " almighty dollar," his
love is not exclusively confined to that alone.
The manufacture of piano-fortes in New York city has within
the last five years nearly doubled itself, there being at the
present moment a capital of about $3,000,000 employed in it,
while in other parts of the country the increase has been in a
corresponding ratio, and we see no appearance of any diminu-
tion of demand, but on the contrary new establishments are
constantly springing up.
One of the most celebrated establishments in New York for
the manufacture and sale of piaJio-fortes is that of Messrs.
Lighte & Bradburys, now reputed to be one of the largest,
wealthiest, and most reliable in the country. The origin of this
house affords a striking example of the results which inevitably
flow from a patient, persevering, and upright course in business.
Over thirty years since, Mr. Ferdinand Lighte, whose name now
heads the firm, with no other reliance than his own mechanical
ability, commenced business with one single piano-forte, which
he made entirely, in all its branches, with his own hands. The
construction of this instrument^ in all its details, imparted to
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 85
Mr. Lighte a knowledge of all that was necessary to constitute
a piano perfect and entire, in every particular. The thought
and attention thus given to his early efforts, have since been
closely followed up, and by a continued course of patience,
energy, and ability, in which he has been ably assisted by all
the members of the" firm, a confidence has been established in
favor of Lighte & Bradburys' manufactures which is equalled
by none. Mr. Lighte's experience of thirty years enables him
to give his personal inspection to the minutize of each instru-
ment, during its whole course of construction, without which
no instrument is allowed to leave the establishment, and war-
rants to the purchaser the possession of every new and valuable
improvement in the piano-forte, while the well-earned and world-
wide musicaf reputation of the Messrs. Bradbury is a sufficient
guarantee of their superior excellence. The superiority of their
instruments is sufficiently guaranteed by the highest order of
testimonials in the musical profession 'such as Thalberg, Dr.
Mason, Strakosch, Timm, Gottschalk, and numerous others.
Their manufacturing facilities are not excelled, if equalled, by
any in this country. They are producing upwards of twenty-
five instruments per week, employing a force of two hundred
and fifty men, and a powerful steam engine, which drives some
twenty different machines for forwarding the work in an exact
and more perfect manner than it can be done by hand, while a
large number of hands are employed temporarily, such as
workers in pearl, and artists engaged in decorating to suit the
peculiar tastes of the fastidious. The materials from which the
instruments are made, are seasoned in drying rooms especially
suited to the purpose, without which necessary precaution no
instrument can successfully withstand the variableness of our
climate.- It may be proper to remark here thatthe same care
and attention are bestowed upon the plain and lower-priced
86 THE UNION SKETCH BORK.
instruments as upon the more costly ones. The mechanique, or
action, is made in so perfect a manner that the most delicate
expressions in music can be effectively accomplished, and the
most powerful interpretations of modern compositions can be
rendered without laborious effort to the performer. The many-
improvements they have introduced in the modus operandi of
their manufactory, enable the proprietors to defy competition in
any specialty of their business.
Wherever their instruments are known, they have a com-
manding reputation, whether in regard to the excellence of the
materials used, the perfection of their mechanism, their super-
ficial embellishments, or their combined power, sweetness, and
flexibility of tone. It is proper to remark, that parties at a
distance ordering from this house, may rest assured that they
will be dealt with as liberally and fairly as if personally present,
'Among the many improvements in the piano-forte made by
this firm, the patent insulated iron frame takes the first position
of any modern invention. The insulators placed between the
iron frame and wooden portion of the piano-forte prevent the
tinny or metallic quality of tone so justly complained of in the
ordinary use of the iron frame, and give freedom to the vibra-
tory portions of the instrument, thereby insuring a durability
hitherto unattained, while the singing quality, power, and rich-
ness of tone are greatly enhanced. Thus it is appreciated by
the most eminent musicians as the greatest improvement of the
age ; and so confident are the manufacturers of its superiority,
that they warrant these instruments without limit as to time.
The large capital employed by this firm, and the perfect
system with which every detail of the manufacturing depart-
ment is attended, insure to the purchaser of a Lighte & Brad-
burys' patent insulated full iron frame piano-forte the best and
cheapest instrument manufactured in this country or Europe.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 87
Strangers visiting New York should not neglect the oppor-
tunity of visiting the beautiful and spacious warerooms of the
firm, 421 Broorne street, which are at all times filled with a
large and varied assortment of pianos.
NEW DESTRUCTIVE AGENT IN WAR. Chloride of nitrogen
has long been known to chemists as the most terrible detonating
compound in existence, so much so that it was considered dan-
gerous to experiment with particles larger than a grain. Mr.
Baggs, an English chemist, who has discovered a method for
manufacturing it in large quantities, with perfect safety, assures
the English government, that one cask of it would, if conveyed
into the midst of the largest city, instantly destroy it. It
ignites by contact with oil, and a slow match may be placed in
a cask of the explosive compound in the shape of a capsule,
which the oil would dissolve by the time the operator had
escaped to a safe distance.
The Stock Exchange is one of the most remarkable features
of London wealth. The government securities alone, and
which constitute the national debt, amount to $4,500,000,000 ;
the railway stocks to $1,500,000,000; those of the Bank of
England to $150,000,000; to other banks to $350,000,000;
employed in discounting, $380,000,000 ; and besides this, there
are shares in canals, foreign lands, &c., to an almost unlimited
amount. The stock market is very susceptible of being influ-
enced by political events. The day that it was rumored that
Russia and France had formed an alliance, bonds, &c., depre-
ciated $250,000,000, and seventy firms suspended.
THE OIL TRADE.
She comes majestic with swelling sails,
The gallant bark ; along her watery way
Homeward she drives before the favoring gales,
Now flu-ting at their length the streamers play.
SOUTHEY.
Many reliable and interesting facts might be adduced to illus-
trate the value of this highly important and indispensable
branch of trade, but want of space precludes the possibility of
our giving anything more than a mere summary of statistics
and events. The United States tonnage employed in the whale
fishery, in the year 1817, was 4,871 tons. It ha$ since then
increased, until in 1859 the aggregate was 198,593 tons. The
whole number of vessels then employed in" the whale fishery,
from ports in the United States, is 560 ships and barks, 19
brigs, 45 schooners, including 195,115 tons against 587 ships
and barks, 18 brigs, and 49 schooners, including 203,148 tons
in the previous year. The importations of sperm oil, during
the year 1858, in barrels, were 81,941; whole 182,223, and
1,540,600 pounds of whalebone.
The foreign whale and other fish oils, imported in 1857-8
amounted in value to $18,470.
The importations of sperm oil, in 1858, amounted in all to
81,941 barrels, and of whale oil, to 182,223 barrels.
EXPORTS OF OIL.
SPERM OIL. WHALE OIL.
Bbls. bls.
In 1856 :... 20,052 971
" 1857 37,231 17,407
" 1858 33,336 19,503
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
The stock of sperm oil in the United States, on the 1st of
January, 1859, amounted to 17,176. barrels; that of whale oil
to 83,375 barrels. The vessels engaged in the whale fishery
are owned in the following states :
STATES. Ships and Barks. Brigs. Schrs. Tonnage.
Massachusetts 465 14 ...... 32 159,303
Connecticut 54 3 11 22,756
New York 24 2 2 9,219
Rhode Island 18 5,837
Total 561 19 45 195,115
Of this number, New Bedford alone employs 316 ships and
barks. In this beautiful and thriving city, the oil trade is car-
ried on upon an extensive scale. One of the largest and most
extensive establishments here, is that of the well-known firm of
Messrs. HASTINGS & Co. The location which they have selected
is, in all respects, the most desirable in that vicinity, having a
fine wharf 400 feet long, which takes in an entire street on each
side thereof. Of the large tract of land which they have appro-
priated to the purpose of their business, not less than three
acres are inclosed. This inclosure comprises numerous depart-
ments, the most prominent of which is the manufacturing
department. The oil which is purchased in its crude state by
the cargo, is first conveyed to the works, where it is pumped
into immense vats, for the purpose of bleaching, which process
is accomplished by means of alkalies. After undergoing the
bleaching process, it is then converted into what is known as
winter oil. After being conveyed to vats above by means of
stationary pumps, it is run thence into the freezing vaults, or
ice-house, where it is placed in tanks. The ice-house has a capa-
city for freezing 1,000 barrels at a time, which is used only
90 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
during the warm season of the year. The next process is that
of running off into strainers, and thence into barrels and casks
for market. In the upper portion of the works are numerous
tanks, and immense vats capable of containing from 800 to
1,000 barrels. Connected with the establishment, likewise, is a
coopering department, and commodious sheds for the storage of
stock ; one of these sheds is capable of containing, and is usually
filled with 25,000 barrels of oil. The establishment throughout
is supplied with the best improved machinery, and is unques-
tionably one of the most important and complete of its kind in
the country. This firm was organized in 1846, and comprises
the names of Messrs. WAITSTILL, GEORGE, and JOHN HASTINGS,
all of whom have been practically educated to their business,
and are familiar with it in all its details. The operations of
this house extend to all sections of the Union, and their superior
manufactures of oils have obtained a celebrity unequalled by
that of any other house.
HASTINGS & CO.,
MANUFACTURERS OP
OIL, .AJSTD C^ISTDLES,
AND DEALERS IN
CURRIERS' OIL,
154 FRONT ST., cor. of Maiden Lane,
NEW YORK.
WAITSTILL HASTINGS, New York )
GEORGE HASTINGS, " V Manufactory at NEW BEDFOBD.
JOHN HASTINGS, New Bedford. )
MILLINERY GOODS.
As lamps burn silent with unconscious light,
So modest ease in beauty shines most bright ;
Unaiming charms with rays resistless fall,
And she who means no mischief) does it all.
AAEON HILL.
In New York City alone, there is a capital employed of three
millions and a half of dollars in the business of making ladies'
hats and caps with the adjuncts included under the head of
millinery. This capital is employed by about 500 different
establishments ; these employ over 8,000 women and girls in
their workrooms, besides giving a livelihood to about 1,000
women who do their work at home. It will be a fair calcula-
x
tion to consider, that these women each employ two girls, many
more and some less, but the average will be about that.
Thus, we have in the aggregate, 11,000 persons employed in
this trade, but this does not represent the number supported by
it. Many of the women thus employed have children, some have
sick brothers, sisters, and husbands, others old parents, whose
only support they are ; we may, therefore, safely assume, that
from these causes at least 1,500 more may be added to the list,
making a total of 12,500 persons supported by this one busi-
ness.
We recently inspected the extensive millinery establishment of
Mr. R. M. MITCHILL, successor to R. T. WILDE & Co., occupy-
ing the whole of the upper floors of No. 251 Broadway. Inde-
pendent of its character as a business house, it possesses attrac-
tions which render it well worthy of a visit from strangers.
The large and magnificent stock of goods contained there, is
characterized by beauty, novelty, and originality of design, and
exhibits, -in an eminent degree, the skill and genius of the artists
92 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
engaged in their production. In the various departments of
manufacture, such as the feather making, artificial flower mak-
ing, bonnet frame making, bonnet finishing, trimming, &c., &c.,
there are, in the season, over 500 hand.s employed, mostly in
the house, which then presents a scene of life and animation
seldom witnessed ; we would describe it, but fear our pen would
fail to do justice to the scene. Besides this business, Mr.
MITCHILL is well known throughout the country as an extensive
dealer in millinery goods, being largely engaged in the manu-
facture and importation of straw goods in every variety, silk,
velvet, and fancy bonnets, French flowers, feathers, ruches, &c.
Merchants from the country, visiting New York to make pur-
chases, will be amply repaid by visiting his establishment and
devoting a few hours to an examination of the various depart-
ments. No other establishment jn New York, in the same busi-
ness, presents a greater variety or a better assortment of goods ;
and such are the facilities of the house, that they are enabled
to offer unusual inducements to purchasers, both as regards
economy in price, elegance of design, and quality of both ma-
terial and workmanship. Many years' experience in the business
has enabled Mr. MITCHILL to thoroughly understand the wants of
the trade for the various seasons, and the women employed in
the millinery department are selected for their skill and taste
in meeting the public requirements. "That the public and mer-
chants dealing with him have fully appreciated these qualities,
his present prosperous business will satisfy all who pay a visit
to his store at 251 Broadway, corner of Murray street.
r A piano affords a: young lady a good chance to show her
fingering and her finger-ring.
SILVER WARE.
Gold is the strength, the sinews of the world,
The health, the soul, the beauty most divine ;
A mask of gold hides all deformities ; .
Gold is heaven's physic, life's restorative.
DECKER.
Silver, the possession of which forms one of the incentives
to the pursuit and acquisition of wealth, is obtained principally
from Mexico and Peru. The silver mines of Mexico* and Peru
far exceed in value the whole of the European and Asiatic
mines ; for we are told by Uumboldt, that these mines, in the
space of three centuries, afforded 316,023,883 pounds troy of
pure silver ; and he remarks that this quantity would form a
solid globe of silver, 91,206 English feet in diameter. Mr.
Helms is of opinion that the Andes, if properly examined,
would afford silver enough to overturn our present commercial
system, by making silver as common as copper. Silver has also
been obtained from some of the lead mines of Great Britain.
Bishop Watson, in his " Chemical Essays," notices the silver
which was produced from the lead mines in Cardiganshire. Sir
Hugh Middleton is said to have cleared two thousand pounds
sterling a month, and that this enabled him to undertake the
great work of bringing the New River from Ware to London.
Some conception of the amount of silver consumed in the
United States may be inferred from the fact that in the year
1858 its importation amounted to $689,533 for the port of New
York. Other ports, $6,616,016. Total, United States, $7,305,-
549.
German Silver (improperly so called) is nothing more than
the white copper long known in China, and does not contain a
particle of silver ; it is only an alloy of copper, metal, and
94 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
nickel. Amalgam of silver is sometimes used for plating. It
may be important to state, in this connexion, for the benefit of
those who are in the habit of using plated goods and pure silver
ware, that coal gas is highly injurious to them, on account of
the sulphuretted hydrogen, which they contain.
A large prortion of silver is annually diverted from the pur-
poses of coin to those of ornament and luxury. The manufac-
ture of sterling silver ware has of late years grown to a con-
siderable extent, and has now become an important branch of
trade. Among the oldest and most reliable houses engaged in this
branch of business, may be classed the well-known firm of GALE
& WILLIS, whose place of business is located at 447 Broome
street, near Broadway. Their beautiful establishment is not
only a source of profit to themselves, but of immense benefit to
the community ; for the unerring principle and vast scale on
which their business is conducted, has made it one of the most
popular in New York. The manufacture of sterling silver is
an important feature of the establishment, and the superb full
sets of plate they are constantly furnishing throughout the
country, are an evidence of their great superiority. The rich and
elegant goods, as they are displayed in the show cases, must be
seen to be appreciated. There is one fact, however, which we
may notice, and that is, that the patterns and styles of goods
differ materially from those to be seen at any other establish-
ment. Some new and attractive feature is constantly produced,
either in the shape of some exquisite specimen of the fine arts,
or in the form of some article possessing rare value and beauty,
such, for instance, as costly and magnificent waiters, epergnes,
and services of plate of rare and novel designs.
It may be proper to remark here that the goods of this house
are manufactured upon the premises, under the immediate super-
vision of the proprietors ; for which purpose they have a large
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 95
and well-ordered factory, in which is employed a force of from
seventy to eighty skilful artisans, who; with the aid of the most
valuable and latest improved machinery, are constantly produc-
ing articles which, for beauty and superiority of workmanship,
cannot be equalled. The variety of articles manufactured is too
numerous to mention, but it is sufficient to state the stock of
Messrs. GALE & WILLIS comprises every article usually to be
found in establishments of this kind. The house also sells plated
ware of foreign and domestic manufacture, and gives special
attention to the getting up of prizes for State and county
agricultural fairs.
BITUMENIZED PAPER PIPES. M. Taloureau, of Paris, has
devised a method of hardening paper under the influence of
hydraulic pressure, by means of an admixture of bitumen, so
that it may actually be substituted for iron. Experiments to test
the strength of these pipse have been conducted under the great
clock tower at the Houses of Parliament in London. Two of the
pipes, of five-inch bore and half an inch thick, were- subjected
to hydraulic power, and they are said to have sustained, without
breaking or bursting, a pressure of 220 pounds to the square
inch, which is equivalent to 500 feet head of water. The cost of
the pipe is said to be one-half that of iron. The committee
reported that "the material, possessed all the tenacity of iron
with one-half its specific gravity, and double the strength
of stone-ware tubes, without, moreover, being liable to breakage
as in the case of the other material, which often causes a loss to
the contractor of some 20 to 25 per cent, on the supply."
Besides the incalculable utility of this discovery, it surpasses the
recently-invented paper bricks, or the paper cannon lined with
copper which the Chinese are said to have employed for years.
HOTELS IN NEW YORK.
Astor House, Broadway, bet. Barclay and Vesey streets.
Bancroft House, 904 Broadway.
Barclay Street House, West, corner Barclay.
Bixby's Hotel, 1 Park Place.
Bond Street House, 665 Broadway.
Bowery Hotel, 395 Bowery.
Brevoort House, 5th Avenue, corner Clinton Place.
Brandreth House, Broadway, bet. Canal and Lispenard.
Bull's Head, 296 and 298 3d Avenue.
Clarendon, 4th Avenue, corner East 18th street.
Clermont, 12 College Place.
Commercial, 73 Cortlandt street.
Dey Street House, 54 and 56 Dey street.
Earle's, 17 and 19 Park Row.
Eastern Pearl, 309 Pearl street.
Everett House, Union Square, corner 4th Avenue.
Farmers', 247 Washington street.
French's, City Hall Square, cor. Frankfort street.
Girard House, West Broadway, cor. Chambers.
Gramercy House, 908 Broadway, corner 20th street.
Gramercy Park House, East 20th st., near 3d Avenue.
Howard House, 176 Broadway.
Hungerford, 168 Duane street.
International, Broadway, corner Franklin.
Lafarge, Broadway, near Amity.
Lovejoy's, 31 Park Row, corner Beekman street.
Manhattan, 5, 7, 9, Murray street.
Merchants', 37, 39, 41, Cortlandt street.
Metropolitan, Broadway, corner Prince street.
National, 2 and 5 Cortlandt street.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 97
New York, 723 Broadway.
Northern, 79 Cortlandt street.
Pacific, 172 Greenwich street.
Prescott, Broadway, corner Spring street.
Revere, 1085 Broadway.
Smithsonian, 604 Broadway.
St. Denis, Broadway, corner West llth street.
St. Germains, corner Broadway, 5th Ave. and 22d st.
St. Nicholas, 515 Broadway.
Tammany, 166 Nassau, corner Frankfort street.
United States,' 200 Water street.
Union Place, 14th street, corner Broadway.
Waverley, 697 Broadway.
Western, 9, 11, 13 Cortlandt street.
The crown of England is valuable enough to found half
a dozen moderate colleges. The twenty diamonds round the
circle are worth $150,000 ; two large centre diamonds? $20,000 ;
fifty-four smaller diamonds in the angle, $270,000 ; four
crosses, each composed of twenty-five diamonds, $60,000 ;
four large diamonds, on the top of the crosses, $20,000; twelve
large diamonds, in the fleur-de-lis, $50,000; eighteen small
ones, in the same, $10,000 ; pearls and diamonds, in the arches
and crosses, $50,000 ; also one hundred and forty-six small
ones, $25,000 ; twenty -six diamonds, in the upper cross, $150,-
000 ; two circles of pearls, about the rim, $15,000 ; value of
precious stones, exclusive of metal, $820,000.
" I shall be indebted to you for life," as the man said to his
creditors when he ran away to Australia.
5
SEWING-MACHINES.
Learning is an addition beyond
Nobility or birth : honor of blood
"Without the ornament of knowledge, is
A glorious ignorance.
SHIRLEY.
The Sewing-Machine is no longer an experiment to be tried,
but a success achieved, with benefits far exceeding the most
sanguine anticipations. The steam-engine, and the magnetic
telegraph have not proved more beneficent than this, in its
peculiar department. It is one of the greatest triumphs the
American people, have achieved in the mechanical arts. So
fully has this invention commended itself to public favor, that
it is now considered indispensable in every branch of industry
requiring sewing. Its introduction marks an era in the history
of woman. Not only are the wants of the housekeeper met,
but the sewing-machine is found a necessity for the seamstress,
dressmaker, tailor, manufacturers of shirts, collars, cloaks, man-
tillas, clothing, hats, caps, corsets, ladies' gaiters, linen and silk
goods, umbrellas, parasols, boots, shoes, harness, bags, uphol-
stery, etc. Some of these branches of business have increased
to gigantic proportions. It is not unusual to find from lOOto
400 sewing-machines used in a single manufactory. An esta-
blishment in New Haven, Ct., employs upwards of 400 WHEELER
& WILSON machines in the manufacture of shirts. In and
about Troy 3000 of these nincliines are used in the same busi-
ness. Mothers support families thereby, and young women
become capitalists. It is. not unusual to find the owner of a
sewing-machine earning from 50 to 8100 per month.
Contrary to ]>reclictions, the needlewomen have been greatly
benefited by the introduction of the machine. New branches
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 99
of needlework have been introduced, and the old ones greatly
extended, resulting to the operator in better remuneration and
lighter and more healthful toil. Indeed, the hygienic import-
ance of the sewing-machine is not less than its commercial.
The unhealthful nature of ordinary needle-work is proverbial.
The cramped posture, the strain of the eyes, the derangement
of the digestive organs, lungs, and the nerves, over a monoto-
nous task, have told in- fearful effects upon the health and
character- of needlewomen. The best medical opinion is, that
the exercise of the lower limbs in operating the machine is
highly invigorating.
The following figures, showing the number of machines sold
by WHEELER & WILSON, indicate the extent and increase of
their business for seven y%ars : 1853, 799 machines; 1854,
956; 1855, 1171 ; 1856, 2210; 1857, 4591; 1858, 7978:
7859, 21,306. Their sales now exceed the combined sales of
all other manufacturers in the United States.
The small shop of this Company in Watertown in 1852,
turning out eight or ten machines per week, and an obscure
office of one room on the second floor, contrast strongly in
1861 with the manufactory at Bridgeport, Ct., covering an
area of nearly four acres of ground, driven by immense steam-
power, employing an army of mechanics, capable of turning
out 500 machines per day (of a capacity greater than all the
armories of the United States, and equalling them in the com-
pleteness of its appointments), and the office and sales-room,
No. 505 Broadway, extending 200 feet, and rivalling in finish
and adornment the halls of royalty, and visited by ladies of
the highest social position, with agencies in the principal places
throughout the country, and in all the capitals of the civilized
world.
There is, too, a corresponding contrast between the machines
100- THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
manufactured by this Company now, and those made in 1852.
Although not radically changed in operation, their range of
application has been greatly extended, and for completeness of
adaptation for family sewing, and for manufacturers in the
same range of purpose and material, nothing further is desired.
The successive application of the improved tension and loop-
check, the hemmer, marker, binder, corder, and transparent
cloth-presser, shows the disposition of this Company to give
the public the benefit of all the improvements that mechanical
genius produces ; while the machine vies in artistic finish with
the piano in the boudoir. This machine is unrivalled for
1. Beauty and excellence of stitch alike upon each side of
the fabric sewed.
2. Strength, firmness, and durability of seam, that will not
rip nor ravel, and made with
3. Economy of thread.
4. Its attachments and wide range of application to purposes
and materials.
5. Compactness and elegance of model and finish.
6. Simplicity and thoroughness of construction.
7. Speed, ease of operation and management, and quietness
of movement.
The lock-stitch made by this machine cannot be ravelled, and
presents the same appearance upon each side of the seam, a
single line of thread extending from stitch to stitch. It is
formed with two threads, one upon each side of the fabric, and
interlocked in the centre of it. In beauty and regularity, and
in the firmness of the seam formed, it excels hand-sewing.
The efficacy of this machine is equal to about ten hands.
The WHEELER & WILSON COMPANY has prepared tables show-
ing, by actual experiments of four different workers, the time
required to Btitch each part of a garment by hand, and with
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 101
their sewing-machine. Subjoined is a summary of several of
the tables :
BY MACHINE. BY HAND.
Hours. Minutes. Hours. Minutes.
Gentlemen's Shirts 1 16 14 26
Frock Coats 2 38 16 35
Satin Vests 1 14 7 19
Linen Vests 48 5 14
Cloth Pants, 51 5 10
Summer Pants 38 2 60
Silk Dress. 1 13 8 27
Merino Dress 1 4 8 27
Calico Dress 67 6 37
Chemise 11 10 31
Moreen Skirt 35 7 28
Muslin Skirt 30 7 1
Drawers 28 46
Night Dress 1 7 10 2
SilkApron 15 4 16
Plain Apron 9 1 26
KCMBXB OF 8TITCHI8 MACK PER MINUTE.
By Hand. With Machine. Ratio.
Stitching Fine Linen 23 640 28
" Satin 24 520 22
Silk 30 550 18
Seaming Fine Cloth 38 594 16
Patent Leather, fine Stitching. . . 7 176 25
Fitting Ladies' Gaiters 28 610 18
Stitching Shoe Vamps 10 210 21
Binding Hats 33 374 11
When the machines are driven by power, the ratio is much higher
1500 to 2000 stitches per minute not being an unusual average.
Seams of considerable length are ordinarily sewed with the best ma-
chines at the rate of a yard a minute, and that, too, in a manner far supe-
rior to hand-sewing.
102 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
The importance of the sewing-machine to the manufactur-
ing interests of the United States is estimated at $342,000,000
annually. The annual saving by the machine is estimated on
Men's and Boys' Clothing in New York city $7,500,000
Hats and Caps *. 462,500
Shirt Bosoms 832,750
Boots and Shoes in Massachusetts 7,500,000
It has revolutionized thirty-seven distinct departments of
manufactures, and in no branch of sewing can it be dispensed
with where time and health are regarded.
The value of the imports of the free states during the fiscal
year 1858-9, was $169,162,776 ; and the exports were $295,-
812,869. The imports of the slave states were $187,286,786,
and the exports $31,985,680. Of the exclusive southern pro-
duct, the exports from the United States were as follows : Cot-
ton, $161,434,943; tobacco, $21,074,038; sugar, $574,869;
molasses, $75,699 ; spirits from molasses, $760,889 ; tar, $141,-
058 ; rosin and turpentine, $2,248,281 ; rice, $2,207,148.
Miss Susan Nipper, who lives in a snug tenement alone, was
quite flustrated, the other morning, by an early call from a
bachelor neighbor. " What do you come here after ? " said she.
" I came for a match," says he, in the meekest manner possi-
ble. "Why don't you make a match ?" says she, "I know
what you're come for," cried the apparently exasperated virgin,
as she backed him into a corner, "you're come here to hug
and kiss me almost to death ! But you shan't, without you're
the strongest, and Lord knows you are ! "
VIEW OP BERLIN AND JONES'S FACTORY (No. 1).
ENVELOPES. THEIR HISTORY, USES, PROGRESS
OF MANUFACTURE, &c.
Go, ring the bells, and fire the guns,
And fling the starry banner out ;
Shout " Freedom " till your lisping ones
Give back their cradle shout.
WHTTTIEU.
Envelopes, as postal packages, came into use in Great
llritain after the Act of Parliament, August 17th, 1839, regu-
lating the postage by weight instead of the number of pieces.
Their extreme availability was early detected in this country,
but our postal laws were then hampered with the absurd regu-
104 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
Cation of charging for number of pieces instead of by weight ;
this was done away with by Act of Congress, July 1st, 1845.
In 1843, the' first envelope manufactory was established in
New York, by a Mr. Pierson, by hand process, using little or
no machinery. The process was so slow as to make the cost
too great, consequently the business did not prosper, and was
abandoned for a time.
In 1847, Jacob Berlin, a man of sagacity and enterprise,
bought out Pierson, and commenced the manufacture on a
large scale, and with more improved modes, at 180 Fulton
street, New York ; but still the business did not prosper, and
for a time he was discouraged. But by energy and persever-
ance he at length succeeded in awakening the public attention
to their convenience and utility, since which time the business
has continually increased.
In 1853, Jacob Berlin retired, and was succeeded by Wm.
G.'West and H. C. Berlin, who constantly increased their
manufacturing facilities till, in 1856, Mr. West also retired,
and the present firm of BERLIN & JONES was formed.
In May, of that year, the new firm, to accommodate its im-
mense business, moved its salesrooms to 134 William street,
where they still remain, commanding and directing a heavy
trade. So greatly had the business increased in 1857, as to
compel the removal of the factory to more spacious premises
up-town (see cut 1), where they have facilities for producing
400,000 per day, or 140,000,000 per year, of every size, quality,
and kind known in the trade, as Business, Legal, Document,
Detector, Embossed, Opaque Silvered, Wedding, Mourning,
Drug, Pay, Cloth-lined, and Business-illustrated envelopes, to-
gether with a very large variety of Union envelopes, Litho-
graph, Comic, and the ordinary Flag styles, at from two dollars
per thousand upwards. At the salesroom, a stock of from fif-
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
105
teen to twenty millions is always kept on Land to answer any
demand. Orders come from all parts of the Union, the Cana-
das and Provinces, South America, West Indies, East Indies,
and even from Europe. Prices vary, of course, with quality,
size, &c., running from sixty cents to sixty dollars per thou-
sand. So steady has been the demand, that even during the
"panic" (1857-8) this manufactory did not discharge any of
their regular hands.
As the process of manufacturing is very interesting, we will
here briefly advert to it : A fine steel cutter, or die, does the
work of cutting, the steam power applied being a two-horse
power, which forces the cutter through from three hundred to
VIKW OF Of.MMIXCr ROOM (*O. 2).
five hundred sheets at one application. These s-hcvts are m;;du
.
106
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
of specific surfaces for special kinds and sizes of envelopes, so
that in cutting them there may be very little waste. When
cut, the open form of the envelope is carried to the "gummer,"
who gums the lappets with the adhesive, generally made of
dissolved gum Arabic. A good hand will gum from fifty to
sixty thousand per day.
After gumming, the still open envelopes are placed in a
series of sliding shelves to dry. By the aid of hot air applied
through steam pipes, the drying occupies but a few moments.
They are then borne to the folding machine, through which
VIEW OF FOLDING KOOM (NO. 3).
they are passed witli great rapidity, coming out perfectly shaped
and closed, ready for the counter's hands, who counts and
bands them into packages of twenty-five, after having discarded
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
107
VIEW OF FOLDINi; MACHINE (NO 4).
any that may not be
perfectly folded and
finished. With every
second of time, an en-
velope must be fed to
the insatiate arms
which extend to re-
ceive it, then with-
drawn into the machine
where the side and
bottom flap are pasted
and folded over with
unerring precision, and
pressed ^ down to a
perfect point upon
the three impinging edges the fourth flap being folded over,
but left unsealed. This is all done in a mere moment of time,
and the envelope drops upon the table before the counter,
ready for the bands and packing-box. Twenty -five are put in
a package, and twenty packages in a box making five hun-
dred in each box.
The imperfect from any cause are laid aside, and afterwards
sorted, packed, and sold as inferior quality. There is a count-
ing apparatus attached to the folding-machine ; but as it counts
both good and bad, it is not used, as the manufacturers allow
no imperfect work to go out as perfect.
The quantity of paper consumed in the manufacture is enor-
mous. A large number of mills make paper exclusively for
this business, employing many hundreds of people and heavy
capital. The firm of UKKLIN <fc JONES, alone, consume from m.-
to icn tons of mill paper p<T week, in their business ! This
amount is sometimes much e.ve"<l<'<], as in the case of heaw
extra orders.
108 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
The trade, living at a distance, who require supplies, in any
amount, have only to write to the manufacturers (Messrs. BERLIN
& JONES, No. 134 William street, New York), for samples and
accompanying prices, when they will be furnished with the
samples by which to make any order.
THE SALT TRADE. The Onondaga Salt Springs have fur-
nished one of the first and permanent elements of business in
Oswego. As early as the year 1818, the manufacture and
shipments of the article to this port were quite extensive, and
constituted the important branch of commercial business in the
contracted facilities at that time. In that season, the receipts
of salt at Oswego were 36,000 barrels, of which 26,000 barrels
went to Lake Erie by portages around Niagara Falls. In 1819,
the receipts of salt were 47,000 barrels the increase of trade
thus early commenced on a large ratio ; of this amount, 29,000
barrels passed west, and 18,000 barrels went to ports on this
lake and the river St. Lawrence. At this period, the freight on
salt from Salina to Oswego was fifty-two cents per barrel ;
warehouse charges at Oswego five cents ; from Oswego to Lew-
iston thirty-one cents ; and by the portages around the Falls to
Black Rock fifty-two cents making the cost of transporting
the article from Salina to Black Rock, or Fort Erie on the
Niagara River, $1 .40 per barrel, $9.85 per ton. The price of
salt at Oswege at that time ranged at about $1.50 per barrel.
Salt now passes from Syracuse to Chicago, or any of the upper
lake ports, at eight to thirteen cents per barrel, according to
the demand for ballast at Oswego.
"Tom, what in the world put matrimony into your head ?"
" Well, the fact is, I was getting short of shirts! "
CLOTHS, CASSIMERES, &c.
"Each climate needs what other climes produce,
And offers something to the general use."
Amongst the many branches of manufacturing industry that
have engaged the attention of American capitalists of late years,
none is more important and few have made more rapid strides
than the manufacture of woollen goods. In 1858, the official
returns of this trade gave the following result :
Establishments, 1559
Capital invested, $28,118,650
Raw material used, wool, Ibs, 70,862,829
" " Coal, tons, 46,370
Hands employed, males, 22,678
" " females, 16,574
Producing an annual value of products of $43,207,545
Most of these goods were for men's wear, and a large portion
of them consisted of coarse and light common fabrics, the finer
kinds of cloths, cassimeres, doeskins, being mostly imported, but
since then we have made a most rapid advance, especially in the
latter qualities.
In I860, it was estimated that the annual product of the
woollen factories exceeded $60,000,000, and by means of im-
proved machinery, many of the goods, especially in doeskins
and cassimeres, compared favorably with the best products of
European looms, and we doubt not in a few years, if the manu-
facturers will only do as the European manufacturer does, give
time and attention to the finishing of their goods, and not be in
too great a hurry to take them off their looms and get them
into market, wes hall be able to produce woollen goods equal in
110 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
quality to any that Europe can show. At present, however, we
have still to import quite largely; the returns of woollens im-
ported in 1860 into the port of New York, alone amounting to
nearly $20,000,000.
Amongst the many houses exclusively engaged in the busi-
ness of cloths, cassimeres, vestings, and goods for men's wear
generally, we may mention the firm of SULLIVAN, RANDOLPH &
BUDD, late Wilson G. Hunt & Co., as one of the largest and
oldest established in the trade. Their beautiful and elegantly
constructed warehouses at Nos. 30, 32, 34, and 36 Park Place
(corner of Church street), was erected by the firm expressly for
their own use at a cost of $85,000, covers an area of 46 by 100
feet, and is five stories high. -It is of piire white marble, and is
universally admired for its outward architectural beauty and its
internal convenience. It is, beyond doubt, one of the most sub-
stantially constructed and best arranged warehouses in the
country*
This firm have many styles exclusively their own and have
the best facilities, both at home and abroad, for obtaining the
latest novelties. They have a house in Europe under the man-
agement of one of the firm, from whom they are constantly
receiving the most desirable goods in the market. Each mem-
ber of the firm having h'ad many years' experience in the busi-
ness, and being in connexion with some of the first manufacto-
ries of the country, they have obtained facilities that enables
them to secure and confine many of the best kinds of cassimeres,
vestings, and coatings, to their own sales exclusively.
Merchants, merchant tailors, and clothiers, will always find at
this house a large and well-selected stock of cloths, 'doeskins,
cassimeres, vestings, trimmings, and such like articles for men's
wear ; and the reputation they have acquired during the many
years they have been in business, will be a sufficient guarantee
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. Ill
that both the price and quality of the articles purchased will be
found to compare favorably with any other establishment. We
append the card of the house.'
SULLIVAN, RANDOLPH & BUDD,
SUCCESSORS TO
WILSON G. HUNT & CO.
Importers and Commission Merchants,
GOODS FOR MEN'S WEAR,
NOS> SO, 33, 34, AND 36 PARK PLACE,
N. SULLIVAN. ) ( J. P. HALSTED.
P. P. RANDOLPH. X N F W YORK ! W. V. BROKAW.
W. A. BUDD. ) ' ( J. H. CLARK.
A new motive power has just been tried with success in
Paris : an engine that dispenses with boiler, chimney, and the
usual accessories, and economizes besides a saving of over 30
per cent, in steam. The machine utilizes the expansion caused
in cold air by the spark of induction in a proper volume of
" Marriage/' said an unfortunate husband, " is the churchyard
of love."
" And you men,'' replied tlic not less unhappy wife, "are the
gnu (.'-dithers.''
AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS.
Crowns have their compass, length of days their date,
Triumphs their tomb, felicity her fate ;
Of naught but earth can earth make us partaker,
But knowledge makes a king most like his Maker.
SHAKSPEAEE.
Man's inventive genius has during the last few years been
highly prolific in producing many rare and ingenious specimens
of labor-saving machines, but in no direction, we think, has
that genius been so productive of real genuine benefit as in the
production of the various machines now in successful use by the
fanner and planter. As agriculture affords occupation to nearly
three-fourths of the population of the United States, and
employs as much capital as all other pursuits combined, it is
natural that the mind of the inventor should be attracted
towards it as opening a large field for his genius to work upon,
and hence the production of the steam-plough, the harvester,
the cultivator, the threshing-machine, corn-sheller, and others
too numerous to mention.
In the purchase of agricultural implements it is especially
desirable that farmers do not incur more expense than is abso-
lutely necessary for the proper management of the farm ; but
at the same time it will be well to bear in mind that the oft
repeated assertion that the " best is the cheapest " will, as here-
tofore, be found a perfect truism. Farmers, however, are not
the only persons interested in this matter. Country merchants
are equally so ; for, if they desire the prosperity of their
respective neighborhoods, they will take pleasure in introducing
any invention that promises to be productive of general benefit,
remembering always that what they see on their periodical
visits to the large cities their neighbors at home have not the
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 113
opportunity of knowing anything about unless introduced to
their notice by themselves.
Two machines, the invention of the last few years, deserve
the particular attention of the practical farmer, viz. Whitcomb's
Spring-Tooth Horse-Rake, and Kirby's Combined Reaper and
Mower.
Whitcomb's Rake overcomes all objections, and is particu-
larly adapted for raking hay on the light porous soil of the
prairies, as the teeth pass lightly over without ploughing into
the soil. It is a superior rake for gleaning grain fields, as the
teeth are gauged in a moment so as to pass just above the sur-
face of the ground, taking up the grain clear from dirt and
stones, and will be found valuable in gleaning after the Har-
vester. It is simple in construction, and will rake from fifteen
to twenty acres of hay per day easier than any other rake.
The distinctive feature of Kirby's Combined Reaper and
Mower, and that which renders this Harvester the best in the
market^ is their ability to work on rough ground, which is accom-
plished by the independent action of the finger bar, which freely
rises and falls in following thtj inequalities of the ground inde-
pendently of the driving-wheel. This independent action gives
the machine so many advantages on smooth as well as rough
ground that it has distanced all other machines, which will
soon have to be abandoned. Indeed, they are now being
offered for sale at anything they will fetch, as farmers who have
seen or used Kirby's Harvester will not have any other.
The agents in New York for both these machines are Messrs.
GRIFFING, BRO. & Co., who invite farmers and planters to
inspect them at their store, the North River Agricultural and
Seed Warehouse, No. 60 Cortlandt street, New York, where
they have constantly on hand every description of Ploughs, Har-
rows, Cutters, Fans, Spades, Hoes, and other farm implements,
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
together with the best assortment of Seeds, selected from the
best growers with the utmost care. They would also especially
call the attention of farmers to their No. 1 PERUVIAN GUANO,
which they warrant to be genuine, as purchased from the
Peruvian Government Agents. So many frauds have been
practised of late years in this article, by the mixing of worth-
less guano or earth with the genuine and then packing it in
second-hand guano bags filled to the weight coi-responding with
the government stamp upon them, that farmers cannot be too
cautious in making' their purchases. They will find the genuine
article, at the lowest market price, at GRIFFINO, BROTHER &
Co., 60 Cortlandt street, New York, who are the largest
dealers in it in the city. They have also always on hand Land
Plaster, Ground Bone, Superphosphate of Lime, and other fer-
tilizers.
In addition to the great coal fields of Pennsylvania, 15,400
square miles, Illinois and Virginia possess together 65,000 ;
while Kentucky and Ohio furnish 34.400 square miles of unde-
veloped coal, and Southern and Western States yield 27,100.
All Europe together has only 17,400 square miles of coal sur-
face, of which 11,850 belong to Great Britain, and of the
40,000,000 tons annually produced there, only 6,918,195 tons
were exported last year.
The effect of climate on the human system is shown in a
striking manner by the inhabitants of Australia, who in the
course of two or three generations lose the corpulent character
of Englishmen, and become a tall, gaunt, rawboned race, like
the inhabitants of our Southern States.
THE ART INSTITUTIONS.
THE DUSSELDORF GALLKRT, removed to 625 Broadway, has for
some years past been a popular resort for the lovers of the fine
arts. Its collection embraces the works of many great masters.
THE BRYAN GALLERY., OR GALLERY OF CHRISTIAN ART,
which is situated on the corner of Broadway and Thirteenth-
street, contains a very valuable collection of original pictures
of high merit.
THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF DESIGN, directed and con-
trolled by an association of artists and amateurs, have an annual
exhibition of the works of living artists, during the months of
April, May, and June.
THE FREE FINE ART GALLERY OF MESSRS. WILLIAMS, STE-
VENS & WILLIAMS, 353 Broadway, is likewise worthy of notice,
from the fact that it contains at all times a rich collection of
pictures, engravings, and other works.
CHESS AND BILLIARD SALOONS.
The popularity into which the truly rational and intellectual
games of billiards and chess have grown within the past few
years is fully evidenced in New York by the large number of
places which have been exclusively appropriated to these scien-
tific amusements. For the benefit of those seeking recreation
of this character, we name a few only of the leading establish-
ments.
PHELAN'S BILLIARD SALOONS. The proprietor of these
saloons is extensively known throughout the country as the
inventor and patentee of " Phclan's Billiard Tables and Com-
bination Cushions ;" and his knowledge of the beautiful art,
116 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
both practical and theoretical, is supposed to excel that of any
man now living. This attractive establishment is located at
No. 786 Broadway, and is daily visited by gentlemen of dis-
tinction from all parts of the world. It combines three spacious
rooms, 110 by 50 feet, fitted up in an elegant manner, and pro-
vided with thirty tables of the most approved construction.
There are many other large and attractive billiard saloons, of
highly respectable character, among which we name :
HONE HOUSE, corner Great Jones street and Broadway, four
tables.
COLUMBIA ROOMS, P. D. Kilduff, proprietor, 946 Broadway,
nine tables.
UNION SQUARE ROOMS, C. O'Connor, proprietor, 60 and 62
East Fourteenth street, twenty-two tables.
PHELAN'S ROOMS, corner Tenth street and Broadway, M.
Phelan, proprietor, twenty-seven tables.
LAFAYETTE HALL, opposite Metropolitan Hotel, Broadway,
John Cleveland, superintendent, ten tables.
REEVES' ROOM, 214 Broadway, Captain Reeves, proprietor,
eleven tables.
KAVANAGH & FREEMAN, 140 Fulton street, five tables.
BILLIARD HALL, 14 and 16 Fourth avenue, Peter Braisted,
proprietor, eight tables.
HIGGINS' ROOM, corner 57th street and Third avenue, two
tables.
ROBERTS' ROOM, " Times " Building, Mr. Roberts, proprietor,
five tables.
EPPSTEIN'S ROOM, Fourth avenue, cor. 19th street, four tables.
In all matters, except a little matter of the tongue, a woman
can generally hold her own.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 117
AMUSEMENTS AND POPULAR RESORTS.
New York is the headquarters of theatres, concerts, lectures,
and miscellaneous enjoyments, and affords to pleasure seekers
every opportunity for the gratification of their peculiar tastes.
With a view of facilitating the operations of strangers visiting
New York in pursuit of enjoyment, we propose briefly to point
out some of the prominent and legitimate places of resort,
leaving each one, of course, to follow the bent of his inclina-
tions. We commence with the
THEATRES.
In no other city in the world than New York can theatrical
entertainments be enjoyed with as much satisfaction. Specta-
cles are put upon the stage utterly regardless of expenditure,
while the performers employed comprise the highest talent of
our own country, as well as that of Europe. Among the many
magnificent temples dedicated to the drama, we enumerate
LAURA KEENE'S VARIETIES, located at 622 Broadway. This
establishment is justly celebrated for the beauty of its interior
arrangements, the excellence of its company, and for the superb
manner in which its productions are placed upon the stage.
WALLACE'S THEATRE (now the Broadway Music Hall), at
485 Broadway, is well conducted, and a favorite resort.
NIBLO'S GARDEN, in Broadway, corner of Prince street, has
always been a very fashionable resort. It is capable of con-
taining two thousand persons, and its interior arrangements
bespeak much taste and elegance.
THE WINTER GARDEN is a magnificent structure, situated at
641 Broadway.
BOWERY THEATKK is at 46 Bowery.
118 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
NEW BOWERY, in the Bowery, above Canal-street.
BARNUM'S AMERICAN MUSEUM is on the corner of Broadway
and Ann street.
THE NATIONAL THEATRE is in Chatham street, near Roosevelt.
LAURA KEENE'S THEATRE, 624 Broadway.
Besides these, there are, a French Theatre at 585 .Broad-
way, and several German theatres in the Bowery, the prin-
cipal one of which is known as the " STADT THEATRE."
THE ACADEMY OF Music, or Italian Opera House, is situated
on the corner of Fourteenth street and Irving Place. During
the operatic season the highest order of foreign talent is
employed, at salaries which would almost seem to preclude the
possibility of rendering it a source of profit to its manager ;
but the enterprise thus far has been well sustained.
CANTERBURY Music HALL, 585 Broadway.
THE MELODEON CONCERT HALL, 539 Broadway. One of
the most popular resorts for general entertainment in New York.
CUBA.
The population of Cuba is estimated at 1,130,000, of which
nearly 550,000 are white inhabitants, 180,000 free colored,
400,000 slaves, and 38,000 Asiatics and Indians. The sugar
estates are immensely productive. Twenty-three of the princi-
pal plantations, comprising about 100,000 acres of land and
10,175 slaves, are valued at $15,000,000. These twenty-three
estates produced, in 1859, 235,000 boxes, the worth of which
was four dollars each box, making in all $4,700,000. There
are sixteen hundred sugar plantations in Cuba, the exported
products of which amount to $50,000,000 per annum.
MAW & CO.'S TILES FOR FLOORS.
Not enjoyment, and not sorrow,
Is our destined end or sway ;
But to act that each to-morrow
Finds us further than to-day.
LONGFELLOW.
Of the many attempts to meet modern architectural require-
ments in the production of a paving material capable of com-
bining appropriate design with extreme hardness and conse-
quent durability, few have hitherto succeeded so as to bear
comparison with the finest specimens of ancient tesselated
work, or with its more useful mediaeval representative, the
Geometrical Mosaic, known as Opus Alexandrinum, of which
numerous interesting examples are still extant, not only as pave-
ments, but on the interior and exterior surfaces of walls, in
panels, tablets, pilasters, plinths, pedestals, string-courses, friezes,
&c., on edifices bearing date from the time of Constantine the
Great down to a comparatively modern period. The great
beauty of such fragmentary illustrations of the art as time has
spared leads us to regret those technical imperfections which
have induced the destruction of an infinite number of graceful
examples. It is, on this account, truly unfortunate that the
materials generally composing them were either too soft to
wear or too hard to work into tesserae of correct form.
By the application of modern science, both chemical and
mechanical, to peculiarly suitable mineral materials, MAW & Co.
are not only enabled to produce tesserae free from either of the
ancient imperfections of softness of texture or inaccuracy of
outline, but manufacture forms which the materials of the
ancient pavements rendered almost unattainable.
With regard to the question of cost and economy, it must
120 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
be borne in mind that MAW & Co.'s pavements are as durable
as the building of which they form in every respect a consistent
portion. They are more easily kept clean than any other kind
of floor, and entail no subsequent expense for those perishable
ornamental and protective coverings, the frequent renewal of
which in a few years involves an outlay exceeding the price of
a choice specimen of mosaic.
These tiles are adapted to halls, porches, porticoes, 2^ssages,
conservatories, footpaces, gangways, verandas, balconies, hearths,
exterior and interior wall panels, tablets, plinths, skirtings, pedes-
tals, pilasters, string-courses, risers of steps, friezes, (fee., and
while being as durable as marble, are capable of a variety of
combinations of color unattainable in marble, and of a variety
in pattern which could only be furnished in marble at three or
four times the expense. Of the advantages of tiles over
oil-cloth for vestibules and halls it is only necessary to say, that
in addition to the greater facility of cleaning them, and the
fact that the wear never obliterates the pattern or affects the
surface, the necessity of renewing an oil-cloth within two or
three years makes the expense of covering the floor more than
the original cost of a beautiful tile pavement, which never
requires renewing or repairing.
The interest manifested in the manufacture of tiles is shown
by the increasing demand for them, which has been so great as
to oblige the manufacturers to double the size of their works
(already the largest in the world) during the last year. A brief
account of the manufacture may be appropriate in this connexion.
The manufacture consists of two distinct branches, which are
essentially different in nearly the whole of their processes.
Firstly, the making of encaustic tiles, or those inlaid with a
pattern of two colors, which is the reproduction of an art
limited in mediaeval times to church decorations, but now hav-
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 121
ing a much more extended application. Secondly, the manu-
facture of plain tiles and tessera) of a uniform color used iu the
construction of geometrical mosaic pavements, similar in cha-
racter to those found in the mediaeval buildings in Italy ; also
moresque and tesselated mosaics similar to those occurring in
Pompeii and almost all Roman remains in England and on the
continent. The materials employed in both processes are nearly
identical, and consist for the most part of the clays and marls
of the Shropshire coal-measures, England. These, without any
coloring matter, together with the clays from the south of Eng-
land, form the red, buff, and fawn-colored tiles ; and, in con-
nection with different proportions of oxides of iron and manga-
nese, the black, chocolate, and grey tiles. The white, and all
the richer colored tiles and tesserae, are formed of a species of
porcelain or parian, the white left uncolored, and the blues and
greens covered with oxides of chrome and cobalt. The prepara-
tion of what is technically called the body of the tile, which
is the first process in the order of manufacture, consists in mix-
ing the constituent clays and other materials with water, and
commingling and purifying them by passing them in a semi-
liijuid state through a sieve made of the finest lawn, containing
between 10,000 and 15,000 perforations to the square inch.
All the coarse particles are by this means removed, and the
texture of the clay rendered perfectly fine and even, as well as
greatly adding to the brilliancy of the color. The semi-liquid
purified clay is then dried on what is termed the slip-kilns, if for
the manufacture of encaustic or inlaid tiles, to a plastic state ;
or for plain or self-colored tiles, perfectly dry and hard. It is
at this point that the two processes diverge and are essentially
different; but as the space of this article will not permit a
detailed account of the subsequent processes, it merely remains
to mention, to those who are mterested in statistics, that the
6
122 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
manufacture consumes every year about 1500 tons of coal, and
from 1100 to 1200 tons of clay, and various materials entering
into the composition of the tiles, out of which between 20,000
and 30,000 square yards of tiles, tesserae, and mosaics are manu-
factured, composed of 700 or 800 distinct shapes, sizes, and
colors. A considerable proportion is sent to America, India,
and the Colonies. Among the principal works, MAW & Co.
have executed, or have in hand abroad, are the pavements of
the entrance hall of the new University of Toronto ; also nearly
the whole of Osgoode Hall, Toronto, laid by their own men
sent out for the purpose ; the entrance hall of the Hong Kong
Club ; deck-house and other parts of the steam yacht Said, for
the Pasha of Egypt ; Jessore Church, Bengal ; the ground floor
of the new General Post-Office, Calcutta ; and the Cathedral
of Spanish town, Jamaica. The tiles are especially suitable
fop warm climates in providing cool floors, and at the same
time are not too cold in northern latitudes, as from the nature
of the material the heat is retained for a long time when the
house is warmed.
Messrs. MAW & Co. have an agency at No. 93 Liberty street,
New York, where specimens of their manufacture may be seen,
and where any information, price lists, and specimen books can
be obtained by addressing CHARLES D. GAMBRILL, agent.
Several important improvements in the construction of wet
gas-meters have been adopted in England, which are said to
render them accurate indicators of the quantity of gas passed
through them without regard to any variation of the water
level. It is now well known that the common American meters
are not accurate indicators of the quantity of gas that passes
through them.
LIFE INSURANCE
Art is long, and time is fleeting,
And our hearts, though stout and brave,
Still, like muffled drums are beating
Funeral marches to the grave.
LONGFELLOW.
So much'has been written about Life Insurance and so many
people have experienced the benefits of it, that we shall content
ourselfes on the present occasion with simply giving the re-
corded opinion of two most eminent men, and a few reasons
why every one having family connexions should avail him-
self of its benefits.
The late Lord Lyndhurst, Chancellor of England, said: "A
policy of Life Insurance is always an evidence of prudent fore-
thought, and no man with a dependent family is free from re-
proach if his life is not insured, it is the exercise not only of
prudence but benevolence as well." Prof, de Morgan, in his
opinion of Life Insurance Companies, concludes, " On the whole,
we cannot consider these institutions in any other light than as
great public benefits, of which almost any class may avail them-
selves with advantage to their rising families." Independently
of such opinions from such high authorities, Life Insurance is a
prudential measure in view of securing peace of mind, not only
in sickness, but in native business life. Again we believe
many men in limited circumstances have 'had their lives sacri-
ficed to anxiety of mind. When taken sick they would not
send for a doctor or take the necessary remedies because they
could not afford it they had made no provision for their wives
or little ones and could not bear to spend money, which in the
event of their death would be so much needed had they
124 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
appropriated a small sum yearly in paying for a life policy, how
much racking anxiety would be spared them.
In a business point of view it possesses equal advantages, it
is a sum of money yearly put out at interest, and should death
deprive a man of his family, can always be sold for nearly the
amount paid on it. It is also useful as a collateral in business
transactions.
One thing must always be borne in mind in effecting an In-
surance, that is to see it done in an office whose system of busi-
ness and standing is a guarantee of security and prompt pay-
ment of losses. In this respect, amongst the many to b found
in New York, the Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance Company
of Hartford is one of the oldest and amongst the first in extent
of business.
This Company, organized in 1846, on a system entirely
Mutual, furnishes Insurance in all the various forms, and to
meet all the various contingencies for which Life Insurance is
desired, at the actual cost to the policy holder. There is no
Stock or Guaranty Fund, to absorb the profits, but all the sur-
plus is annually allocated to the policy holders, in proportion to
the amount of the premium they pay, and may be appro-
priated to the payment of renewal premiums, after the first four
years.
It offers abundant security, in a large accumulated Fund,
derived from Premiums, amounting to over Three and a Half
Millions.
Its economy in the management of business permits large
dividends to policy holders, which have averaged 50 per cent,
per annum.
Its Dividends are annual, and are paid during the life of the
assured, in cash to those who pay their premiums in cash, or
applied in cancelling the notes of those who pay their premium
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 125
partly by note. Nearly $200,000 have been thus refunded to
policy holders during the past year.
It is prompt in payment of losses.
It has few directors, and these are always at their post at
weekly meetings. It has an auditing committee appointed
yearly, who meet and check the accounts weekly, thus afford-
ing every safeguard to insure the policy holders from loss, and
the extent of its business may be imagined from the fact, that
during last year 1735 policies were issued from the office. The
annual exhibit for the year ending January 31, 1861, shows
the following gratifying result :
Balance per Statement, Jan. 31st, 1860 $3,370,001.87
Amount received for Premiums during the year, $815,7 11.26
Amount received for Interest during the year, 261,427.15
Total Receipts for the year, $1,077,138.41
Deduct paid Salaries, Medical Ex-
aminations, Advertising, Print-
ing, Stationery, Taxes, Ex-
change, <kc., $33,400.67
Deduct paid Commissions to Agents, 50,053.19
Deduct paid Losses on 95 Policies,
(89 lives,) including $34,700
losses of previous years, 223,400.00
Deduct paid for Surrendered Policies, 5,335.31 $312,189.17 $764,949.24
$4,134,951.11
Deduct paid Dividends during the year, $199,551/00
Deduct for Notes on Policies cancelled, 45,988.76
$245,539.76
Net Balance January 31st, 1861, $3,889,411.35
Losses on 13 Policies not yet due, $29,480.42
126 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
ASSETS.
Loans on Bond and Mortgage of Real Estate, $2,339,824.65
Loans on Bank Stock and Mortgage Bonds,.. . 64,529.14
Bank and Railroad Stock, 47,955.00
Mortgage Bonds, 41,680.00
United States Coupon Bonds, 45,221.00
Cash deposited in Bank, '. 69,093.66
Premium Notes on Policies in force, 1,259,734.77
Premiums in the hands of Agents and in transit, 21,373.13
Total Assets. $3,889,411.35
Amount of Losses during the year, 89 lives, (95 Policies.) 217,500.00
Total amount of Losses paid to date, 2,499,461.77
Total amount of Dividends paid to date, 1,757,243.00
Total No. Deaths since organization of the Company, 1,168.
Number of Policies issued during the year, 1,725.
Total number of Policies hi force, 10,461.
Should any of our readers desire further information, we
refer them for full particulars of rates, and to obtain blanks for
the different form of Insurance, pamphlets, reports, &c., to the
Agent in New York.
W. S. DUNHAM,
Conn. Mutual Life Insurance Company,
104 Broadway.
OFFICERS.
JAMES GOODWIN, President, Z. PRESTON, Vice- President.
GUY R. PHELPS, Secretary.
Young ladies who faint on being proposed to, may be
readily restored by whispering in their ears that you were only
joking.
THE TWINE, CORDAGE, AND PAPER BUSINESS.
Man loves knowledge, and the beams of truth,
More welcome touch his understanding's eye,
Than all the blandishment of sound his ear,
Thau all of taste his tongue.
AKENSIDE.
The increase in the manufacture of these articles has been
most extraordinary ; bnt a few years ago a large portion of our
twine and cordage was imported, now we can manufacture suffi-
cient for home consumption and export as well.
We have before us the catalogue of Messrs. WILLARD HARVEY
& Co., established twenty years ago at 84 Maiden Lane, and
still remaining there and also at 17 Cedar street, who have, dur-
ing the whole of that time, given their particular attention to
this branch of their business, and some idea of the extent the
trade has attained may be formed by the enumeration of the
different articles with the number of varieties manufactured by
them. Under the head of CORDAGE, we have Manilla hemp
rope, all sizes ; Manilla spun yarn ; the best Manilla bed cords ;
fine Manilla yarn ; Jute hemp rope, two sorts various sizes ;
bright jute bed cords ; American hemp rope, four kinds; Rus-
sia hemp lines, twelve kinds ; Cotton rope, &c., ten kinds all
sizes. Packing for steam-engines, tarred, ratlin, and spun yarn,
fancy cordage, welting cord, whip cord and clock cord, hatters'
cord, seaming cord, masons' lines, <kc., <fec.
In SEINE TWINES there are three different kinds of various
numbers. Gilling threads of all colors and numbers ; while
of fishing lines the variety is almost endless, and saddlers' and
shoe threads, twelve varieties. In twines which they denomi-
nate " Star Twines," there are thirty-two varieties of various
threads, and put up in all usual size balls and packages. Besides
128 THE UNION" SKETCH BOOK.
which, they manufacture hemp twines, spring twine, paper
twine, baling twine, broom-winding twine, wool twine, bottling
twine, sewing twines, Spread Eagle Mills twine, flax sail, and
broom sewing twines, &c., &c. They are also sole agents for
the American Twine, Thread, and Line Company.
Their stock of all these goods is most complete, they
having made this trade peculiarly their own, and having by
their long experience discovered exactly what is wanted by
the various buyers of these articles, are always prepared to suit
them.
Using the best quality of stock, and availing themselves of
superior manufacturing facilities, W. II. & Co. have always had
the most gratifying testimonials from their customers as to their
satisfaction of the way their orders have been furnished ; and
as a further proof of the superiority of their manufacture it is
only necessary to state that the first premiums have invariably
been awarded to them by the highest institutions in the country
where their goods have been entered for competition.
In the article of paper, we may mention the following of
which they have a large stock always on hand, viz. wrapping
papers, pure manilla, mixed and inferior manillas ; English
glazed hardware, American glazed hardware, staple hardware,
blasting, cartridge, hosiery, rope and rag; palm leaf, straw, shoe,
tea, fine ball, druggists' heavy wrapping, oiled, silk, envelope,
fancy and plain cover, tissue, roofing and sheathing, hatters' and
pyrotechnic papers.
For printing, they have fine and common news, book, common
white, colored medium, pamphlet cover, and white wrapping
paper.
For writing, letter paper of all descriptions, bath, post, gilt
edged, plain, ruled, and unruled ; note papers, staple or fancy,
all sizes ; commercial paper, thin, ruled or unruled ; sermon and
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 129
foolscap, of all prices and suitable for all purposes, with a varied
assortment of boards and envelopes.
In BLOTTING PAPER, a thick firm sheet and known as the
" Treasury Blotting Pad," introduced by them, has had many
imitators and some even with the pretence of being patented,
but they have not come up to the original.
Such is a brief sketch of the principal trade of the house ;
merchants desiring further information should apply to them for
a catalogue, which they will gratuitously furnish. All goods
sold by them are warranted, and they bestow their best atten-
tion in shipping them, care being always taken to procure the
lowest rates of freight and insurance.
As gentlemen, upright and honorable in their business" trans-
actions, proven during the long term of twenty years by the
liberal patronage they have received, we can confidently com-
mend their establishment to the attention of merchants in all
parts of the country.
VALUABLE PRESENTS. Some one speaking of new year's
presents says, "The best thing to give to your enemy is for-
giveness ; to your opponent, tolerance ; to a friend, your heart ;
to your children, a good example ; to your father, deference ;
to your mother, love ; to yourself, respect ; to all men, charity ;
to God, obedience."
THE PAST AND PRESENT. " New England," says Cotton
Mather in 1718, "is now so far improved as to have the best
part of two hundred meeting-houses." What would he say
now (1859) to find, they are over 6,000 ?
0*
ALCOHQL, CAMPHENE, <fec.
Honor to him, who, self-complete and brave,
In scorn can carve his pathway to the grave,
And, heeding naught of what men think or say,
Makes hia own heart his world upon the way.
BURNS.
Alcohol, as is generally pretty well known, is distilled from
whiskey nine gallons of the latter making about five of the
former. Alcohol for burning fluid is ordinarily ninety-five per
cent., while druggists' alcohol is but eighty-four per cent., re-
duced to that standard after distillation. Pine oil, or camphene,
is distilled from spirits of turpentine, the produce of the forests
of North Carolina. This loses in distillation about a gallon in
a barrel, or one and one-fourth per cent. Burning fluid is made
by the admixture of one gallon of pine oil to four gallons of
alcohol. The chief merits of this latter article as a material of
light, consist in its brilliancy, cheapness, and far greater cleanli-
ness than either oil or candles ; its principal demerit is its
liability to explosion. Upon this important point one of our
largest manufacturers says : It has been ascertained that nearly
all the accidents attending the use of burning fluid originated
either by attempting to fire shavings or other combustible
materials with a fluid lamp mostly glass ; or by the attempt to
fill the lamp while burning. This is by far the most fruitful
source of accidents but thanks to the inventive genius of the
American people, several kinds of lamps have been patented,
and are now in use, which entirely prevent the possibility of an
accident occurring from this cause, for the act of unscrewing
the lamp puts out the flame by the action of a spiral spring
forcing up an extinguisher which entirely prevents the possi-
bility of accidents. But there are still other improvements..
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 131
One is, that the fluid is inclosed in a gutta perch a case, so that
in case of a glass lamp falling and "breaking it cannot possibly
ignite. Another is, that the gas and not the fluid is consumed,
thereby making a light equal to gas. The introduction of these
.various improved lamps has rendered the burning of camphene
or fluid as safe as any other illuminator.
The large consumption of these articles employs a number
of manufactories, amongst the oldest of which is the establish-
ment of J. A. WEBB & Co., 229 and 230 West Street. Mr.
Augustus V. H. Webb, the father of one of the present pro-
prietors, claims to be the inventor of camphene, for which he
obtained a patent dated the 19th February, 1839, manufactur-
ing then and subsequently in Williamsburgh.
In 1853, Mr. J. A. WEBB succeeded his father in the busi-
ness, which he continued till 1855, when finding his premises
too small for his increasing business, he commenced the erection
of the factory in West street. This factory he had built after
his own plans, and his long previous experience enabled him to
have erected one of the most perfect manufactories of its kind.
With his increased facilities he devoted his whole time to the
development of his business, which resulted in his effecting
many improvements we shall speak of presently.
The building occupies a frontage of seventy-five feet, and is
one hundred and fifty feet deep. On the left of the entry way
is inclosed the counting-room. Further on, let into the ground
is a large reservoir, capable of holding one hundred and thirty-
five barrels, into which the whiskey is dumped, and from thence,
by means of steam pumps, pumped into the stills. There is
another reservoir on the roof of the same capacity. Above
ami by the side of the reservoir are several pumps, condensers,
and receptacles for the pure alcohol. They have here also a
very simple and perfect machine for measuring, which is much
more accurate than the ordinary gauge.
132 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
Separated from this room by a brick wall sixteen inches
thick, is the still room, containing one still capable of holding
twenty-five hundred gallons, and a smaller one, the whole having
a power of production of over one hundred barrels a day. On
the roof of the building are the reservoirs, water tanks, con-
densers, &c., whilst in the rear of the yard is the boiler room,
the only place in the factoiy where fire is allowed ; and to pre-
vent the possibility of accident from this source, in the still
room is a powerful steam pump, with hose constantly attached,
by which the whole building could be instantly deluged with
water.
Messrs. WEBB & Co., by constant supervision and strict atten-
tion to business, have succeeded in getting their ninety-five per
cent, alcohol recognised as the most uniform and purest in the
market. They have also, after much labor, perfected a higher
grade of spirit, called absolute alcohol, one hundred per cent.,
warranted free from all foreign substances, fusil oils, water, <fec.,
the highest and most perfectly tasteless spirit ever manufactured,
indispensable for druggists, perfumers, &c. They are now
introducing a new illuminating oil, made from coal. They have
already got this fluid to a very great perfection, so as to com-
mand as large a demand as they can conveniently supply.
They have got this oil to be almost entirely free from smoke or
, smell.
The firm of J; A. WEBB & Co. is composed of J. A. WEBB
and JEREMIAH BAKER, and for the convenience of their business
they have a store at 165 Pearl street, where the books are
kept, and the ordinary transactions of the house carried on, to
which establishment all orders should be addressed.
> a
ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS OF NEW YORK,
and one that lias attained here greater perfection than in any
other city on this continent, is its Wine and Ale Vaults. These
are a kind of half wholesale and half retail establishments,
where one can buy either a glass or a puncheon. The great
difficulty of obtaining wines and ales, especially of foreign
brand, pure and unadulterated, in small quantities, necessitated
their establishment, and they have proved a great success. One
of the oldest and largest of these is G. E. MENDUM'S, at the
corner of Cedar street and Broadway. His place during busi-
ness hours is constantly crowded, and his men are kept busy
drawing ales, of which he keeps the following home and foreign
brands always on draught :
Allsopp's East India Tonic Pale Ale.
Bass's East India Tonic Pale Ale.
Younger's Scotch Ale.
Burton "On Trent," 1856.
Gaul's Philadelphia "Golden Ale."
Howard & Fuller's Delicious Spring Water ditto.
Jones's XXX Stock (Brewed from English Malt).
Smith's American Bitter Ale (Brewed in Wheeling, Va.).
Smith's Champagne Ale" (The finest ever offered in the U. S.).
Smith's Kennet Ale (Highly recommended to Dyspeptics
and Consumptives).
Guinness' s world-renowned Dublin Porter.
Murphy's celebrated Cork Porter.
Marr's Saratoga Cream Ale (From the celebrated Saratoga
Springs).
Vassar's Imperial Ale, old and fresh.
Gray's Philadelphia XXXX Extra.
They are kept in cool cellars and drawn from the wood, thus
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 135
preserving their pure flavor, and many of the ales, being rare
productions, cannot be obtained elsewhere on draught. Such a
reputation have they obtained for purity and flavor that his
retail trade is comparatively small to his bottling business,
orders constantly coming in from all parts for wines, liquors,
ales, porters, &c., in quantities of a pint to a cask. Besides
these he keeps on hand various foreign pickles, sauces, ancho-
vies, caviare, cheese, and other luxuries for the table, and having
the best facilities for obtaining them, he has always the choicest
the various markets afford.
Strangers visiting New York, appreciating a glass of good ale,
or requiring any other of MENDUM'S edibles or bibibles, should
stop in at the vaults, corner of Cedar street and Broadway, as
they will be sure of finding the best there.
Comfort Bennet, the millionaire of Chemung county, is a
remarkable man. He went to Big Haho without means, and
worked for the farmers for eight years before he had means to
buy land. In the meridian of life he lost his right hand. He
is now eighty years old, has been blind four years, and has
accumulated by earnings and savings, not speculations, a million
dollars.
The product of the wheat crop last year in six Northwestern
States was 94,000,000 bushels. Illinois and Wisconsin 25,000,-
000 each; Indiana, 16,000,000; Michigan, 12,000,000 ; Iowa,
10,000,000; Minesota, 6,000,000. The whole grain' crop of
Illinois in 1861 is estimated at 101 bushels to each inhabitant.
Woman has found her true " sphere " at last. It is about
twenty-seven feet round, made of hoops.
DISTANCES IN THE CITY.
FROM
BATTERY.
FROM
EXCHANGE.
FROM
CITY HALL.
TO
i mile.
Rector street.
i
i mile.
Fulton.
4
*
City HalL
1
t
i mile.
Leonard.
li
1
i
CanaL
1*
li
4
Spring.
14
H
1
Houston. *
2
14
li
Fourth.
2*
2
li
Ninth.
2*
H
14
Fourteenth.
2*
a*
2
Nineteenth.
3
24
2i
Twenty-fourth.
3i
3
a*
Twenty-ninth.
8*
H
2J
Thirty-fourth.
8f
8i
3
Thirty-eighth.
4
34
3i
Forty-fourth.
4i
4
**
Forty-ninth.
**
4i
31
Fifty-fourth.
41
4*
4
Fifty-eighth.
5
44
4i
Sixty-third.
5i
5
*4
Sixty-eighth.
5i
- 5i
4f
Seventy-third.
Bf
5i
5
Seventy -eighth.
. 6
54
5i
Eighty-third.
8J
6
. 5^
Eighty-eighth.
i
6i
54
Ninety-third.
6|
6i
6
Ninety-seventh.
7
64
6i
One Hundred and Second.
u
7
8|
One Hundred and Seventh.
7*
H
64
One Hundred and Twelfth.
?!
H
7
One Hundred and Seventeenth.
8
74
H
One Hundred and Twenty-first. "
8*
8
H
One Hundred and Twenty-sixth.
Many persons are in advance of their age, but] an old maid
generally manages to be about ten years behind hers.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 137
HACKNEY COACH FARES.
AS ESTABLISHED BY LAW.
One Each Additional
Distances. Passenger. Passenger.
Not exceeding one mile $ 50 $0
Exceeding one mile and not exceed-
ing two 75
To New Almshouse, and returning. 1 00. ...... 50
To 40th-street, and remaining half an
hour and returning 1 50 50
To Gist-street, and remaining three
quarters of an hour and returning. 2 00 50
To 86th-street, and remaining one
hour and returning 2 50 75
To Harlem, and remaining three
hours and returning 5 1 No extra charge
To High Bridge, and remaining three
hours and returning 5 00 ^ for additional
To King's Bridge, and remaining
three hours and returning 5 00 J
For the use of a coach by the day, with one or more pas-
sengers, five dollars.
For the use of a coach by the hour, with one or more pas-
sengers, with privilege of going from place to place, and stop-
ping as often as may be required, one dollar per hour. .
In all cases where the hiring of a coach is not at the time
thereof specified to be by the day or hour, it shall be deemed to
be by the mile.
For children between two and fourteen years of age, half
price only is to be charged, and for those under two years no
charge is to be made.
138 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
The baggage to be taken without charge with each passenger,
is one trunk, valise, saddle-bags, portmanteau, or box, if he be
requested so to do ; but for any trunk, or other such articles
above named, more than one for each passenger, six cents can
be charged.
In case of disagreement, as to the distance or price, the same
shall be determined by the Mayor, or Superintendent of
Coaches.
No charge can be made unless the number of the carriage is
placed on the outside, and the rates of fare in a conspicuous
place inside said carriage.
If more than the legal rates are asked, nothing can be col-
lected for services.
A violation of this ordinance subjects the offender to a fine of
ten dollars.
NEW LEATHER. Whale skin has been successfully tanned,
and made into good leather. In illustration of the fact that the
gelatinous substances compounded of the skin of nearly all
animals are capable of being converted into leather, DR. JULES
CLOQUET lately produced at the French Academy of Sciences a
pair of boots made of the tanned skin of a boa constrictor.
The introduction of the skins of the inferior vertebrata into
trade was advocated in the Academy.
A dealer in dry goods, in Paris, has engaged the services
of several well dressed ladies, who promenade near his store,
and wlfen they see any lady looking into the window, two of
them approach and exclaim, " Oh, isn't it sweet !" or " How
cheap ! Let us go in and buy it !"
THE MANUFACTURE OF HOOP SKIRTS.
woman I dear woman I whose form and whose soul
Are the light and the life of each spell we pursue ;
Whether sunned in the tropics, or chilled at the pole,
If woman be there, there is happiness too.
MOORE.
L. A. O8BORN & CO.'s CELEBRATED ESTABLISHMENT.
From reliable data we are enabled to state that 1746 was the
era of hoop petticoats. In a quotation of prices of dry goods
in those days we find the following articles enumerated :
Hoop Petticoats of five rows, - - . $1 25
six rows, - 1 55
" " three rows, - 69
Whalebone Hoop Petticoats, - 3 75
Who the Osborn was of those days neither history nor tradi-
tion has informed us; but hoop, petticoats were articles of
female attire then as now. Will they be a hundred years
hence ? Probably they will. The female shape and the female
nature are not likely to alter.
The importance of the hoop skirt business as conducted at
the present period will appear from the following statement.
There are in this city about nine large factories. Some of these
employ in their busy seasons as many as eight and nine hun-
dred hands. It is estimated that during their busy seasons,
which last about eight months of the year, as many as five
thousand dozen (or sixty thousand) hoop skirts are made each
day. These, of course, are of all sizes, all patterns, common
and fine, and run from five hoops to fifty. The manufacture of
these most popular of all fashionable aids to the female figure
has very considerably improved within these last few years.
140 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
Amongst those who have aided these improvements are Messrs.
L. A. OSBORN & Co. These gentlemen occupy, in addition to
seven spacious floors on Warren street, being the whole of the
large building No. 92, a large building in the upper portion of
the city. In these two establishments there is a force of from
800 to 1000 hands, most of whom are young ladies. In addi-
tion to these two large establishments, we may add, as being
directly and exclusively connected, one large factory for braid-
ing the hoops, in Bridgeport, Ct., two in Paterson, N. J., besides
several establishments for making the steel hoops, metal trim-
mings, &c., in New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.
With this large force of hands, and the necessary machinery,
Messrs. OSBORN fe Co. are enabled to produce from 2500 to
4000 skirts per day, for which large number they have a
constantly increasing demand. In the various departments of
manufacture they use 400,000 yards of steel springs per week,
and in the same length of time consume 100,000 yards of tape,
a much larger quantity of braid, and 2,000,000 clasps and slides.
Mr. OSBORN is well known as the pioneer in extension skeleton
hooped skirts, having been the first to introduce them in this
country. By his patent, he has the exclusive right to make, use,
or sell extension skirts, and from him all other manufacturers derive
the privilege of making or using. Osborn's Patent Skirts are
formed of a series of hoops, each being cut or parted so as to
form two or more adjustable ends, so arranged that the diameter
of the skirts may be enlarged or diminished, by connecting the
ends of the hoops in such a manner that they will slide towards
and from each other, to enlarge and diminish the diameter of
the skirt, in combination with belts and cords, crossing the
hoops to hold them together; constituting what is known as
Ladies' Extension Skeleton Skirts. The other of the aforesaid
patents contains three claims.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 141
After patient and persevering effort during three years before
the Patent Office, Mr. OSBORN obtained, on the second of April
last, a valuable patent for making hoop skirts by means of forms
or frames, on which the hoops are placed while the workman is
fastening them with tapes or cords, so as to make the skirt the
shape required. Mr. OSBORN had much opposition to contend
against before he succeeded in getting it, but he has at length
overcome all difficulties, and by means of this patent the firm
at 92 Warren street are now enabled to manufacture skirts more
durable and perfect in form than can be produced at any other
establishment, unless they use his patent, which most manufac-
turers are glad to pay him for the privilege of using. This last
patent is issued under the new law, for seventeen years, during
which time, as skirts cannot be made without OSBORN'S frames,
every manufacturer must have a license from him to make them.
THE INVISIBLE DISPATCH.
The plan of writing with rice water, to be rendered visible
by the application of iodine, was practised with great success
in the correspondence during the lafe war in India. The first
letter of this kind was received from Jellalabad, concealed in a
quill. On opening it a small paper was unfolded, on which
appeared only a single word, " iodine." The magic liquid was
applied, and an important dispatch from Sir Robert Sale stood
forth.
It is said that a girl in England was struck dumb by the
firing of a cannon. Since then a number of married men have
invited the artillery to come and discharge their pieces on
their premises.
DRUGS, MEDICINES, AND CHEMICALS.
This world is like a mint, we are no sooner
Cast into the fire, taken out again,
Hammer'd, stamp'd and made current, but
Presently we are chang'd.
DECKER.
About twenty-six years ago Mr. A. B. SANDS, then just
attained to his majority, after having acquired a thorough prac-
tical knowledge of the drug business, which he obtained by
being in two of the best wholesale and retail drug stores at that
time extant; commenced in a very small way retailing drugs
and medicines at the corner of William and Fulton streets
(on the very spot where Washington Irving was born). He
was assisted in this by his brother David, who had then recently
graduated at the Medical College, and they both entered on
their duties with the determination to succeed if constant appli-
cation, strict integrity, and great care in the preparation and
quality of their articles, could accomplish that result.
At that time there was a large amount of deterioration in the
preparation of medicines, but Mr. S. determined that his should
be pure, and therefore pre'pared nothing but from the best raw
material. In this he was greatly aided by his brother's know-
ledge, and succeeded in getting his preparations into public
notice, from which time they have had the gratification of see-
ing them rise step by step higher and higher into public favor.
In 1846 they removed to the corner of Gold and Fulton sts.,
while their present location was being enlarged, after which
they returned to the old spot, where they have since remained.
In such a manner and with such aims Mr. A. B. SANDS com-
menced the business now carried on under the style of A. B.
SANDS & Co. This firm, at the present time, is recognised as
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 143
one of the most prominent houses in New York for Drugs,
Medicines, and Chemicals. With the advantages of their long
experience of twenty-six years they have established valuable
business connexions with foreign countries, giving them extra
facilities for importing crude drugs and other species of mer-
chandize required in their business direct from the places of their
production. Their extensive capital enables them to purchase
on the best terms, always paying cash, never under any circum-
stances giving notes, and they therefore can sell on as advanta-
geous terms as any house in the trade.
Their facilities for manufacturing, and their thorough know-
ledge of the theory and manipulation of drugs and chemicals,
together with the purity of these articles, have obtained for their
preparations a world-wide celebrity, and they have now constantly
employed a force of about thirty hands in putting them up.
Essential Oils and Select Powders are leading features of
their business, being of the purest kinds and finest flavors.
They are also the proprietors and manufacturers of the cele-
brated
Sands' Extract of Sarsaparilla.
McMunn's Elixir of Opium.
Sands' Remedy for Salt Rheum.
Sands' Peruvian Febrifuge, &c., &c.
All of which are well known and deservedly popular reme-
dies.
Their Seidlitz Powders have a universal reputation, orders
arriving for them from all parts of the globe ; parties having
once had these will not be satisfied with any other.
Their Flavoring Extracts, although of comparative recent
introduction, have met with great approval, and bid fair to
become standard popular favorites.
From littfe beginnings, twenty-six years ago, the house of A. B.
144 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
SANDS & Co. has grown to its present magnitude. The strict
integrity these gentlemen have ever shown in all their business
transactions has gained them hosts of friends, and we can cor-
dially recommend them to all who require any articles they
deal in.
A. B. SANDS & CO.
(Late A. B. & D. SANDS & CO.)
IMPORTERS AND WHOLESALE DEALERS IN
DRUGS, MEDICINES AND CHEMICALS,
GLASSWARE, PAINTS, OILS, DYE-STUFFS,
Brushes, Sponges, Soaps, Perfumery, &c.
141 WILLIAM STREET, Cor. of FULTON,
ABRAHAM B. SANDS, MVW
ALEXANDER V. BLAKE. JNiiW
With the aid of machinery twenty-five persons turn out
600 pairs of shoes daily, at a factory at Haverhill, Mass.
Every operation, from first to last, even to the final polish, is
done by machinery, except fitting the shoes to the last.
A BRUTE OF A HUSBAND. Wife (anxiously) ' What did
that young lady observe who passed us just now ?" Husband
(with a smile of calm delight) " Why, my love, she observed
rather a good-looking man walking with quite an elderly
female that's all. Ahem !"
DOMESTIC LIQUORS.
Then gently scan 'your brother man,
Still gentler sister woman,
Though they may gang a kennin wrang,
To step aside is human.
BUKNS.
The title of onr article will, we know, not be attractive to
many of our most excellent citizens, who are known as tem-
perance men and tee-totallers ; still we hope they will read it,
as we mean to put in a plea for domestic liquors in their pure
state, as being, taken in moderation, a useful and decidedly
necessary article of commerce.
Our limits do not allow an extended argument on the con-
stitution of man, but it is patent to every one, that each indi-
vidual has his own peculiar idiosyncrasy, varying in degree,
and form, and shape. Some show it in the form of excitement,
others in their studious and retiring habits. These two classes
taken in a generic sense form the world, but they are capable
of an immense amount of subdivision. From the first we get
our generals, soldiers, sailors, politicians, and most enterprising
merchants ; from the latter our historians, poets, lawgivers,
and philanthropists. Each of these classes is separate and
distinct, and yet all possess features in common. When the
man of excitement has overworked his animal nature, he wants
a stimulant, and it does him good, preventing too great a
reaction frcan sudden repose. When the student has over-
worked his brain, he takes a stimulant, and that infuses life
into his body. In each case they are useful and requisite, pro-
vided the liquors taken are pure, benefiting both mind and
body, when used in moderation. But the difficulty is to get
simply the alcoholic rectified liquors, without any admixture 1
of fusil oils or foreign deleterious matter. The one imparts
vigor to the system ; the other creates a morbid appetite for
repetition, which, if indulged in, leads to a slow but sure
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. ' 147
destruction of both the mental arid bodily faculties. We
know, from observation, unfortunately too well, that the
majority of liquors vended, are composed of poisonous mix-
tures ; and this, in this country, is caused from the great desire
of all for foreign liquors. These, to be pure, must command
a high price, but the majority drinking them cannot afford to
pay it ; hence the poisonous mixtures sold under the names of
French brandy, Scotch and Irish whiskeys, Holland gin, <fec.
The shipper abroad, to compete with domestic liquors in this
market, aMulterates them, and they again receive a further
adulteration when they arrive. Besides this, many are made
here, of nice flavor, and good imitations of the original, but of
the most intoxicating qualities. This almost universal, but
foolish and insane desire for foreign liquors, has been the cause
of the introduction of delirium tremens and mania a potu into
this country, which were never known in former years ; then
our citizens were content to drink our own home-made whiskey.
Now how different ; they are of almost daily occurrence. Our
fanners in remote places still use the wholesome stimulant
made from the pure grain, and live a vigorous life, to a good
old age ; while our powerful muscular men, living in the large
cities, lose their vigor almost in the prime of life. Does not
this teach a lesson, and would it not be well for our legislators
to turn their attention to it, and by a stringent law prevent
the vending of these poisons ? Such a law would be the best
aid to temperance that could be made ; the desire for repeti-
tion created by the narcotics and unnatural stimulants of
adulterated liquor would be taken away, and although intoxi-
cation might still to some extent exist, it would not be any-
thing like as great, or be productive of nearly such baneful
consequences.
We have put in this as a hasty plea for pure domestic
liquors, but it is only a skeleton of an argument to what might
be urged. As we said before, men require stimulants, and will
always have them, therefore total abstinence is an impossibility,
! ~- '
00
0\
o
150 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
and will remain ever so, but temperance is not, and may be
produced, or at least greatly enhanced, by proper legislation.
Amongst the most prominent distillers and rectifiers of
domestic liquors, whose brand is distinguished for purity, stand
the firm of HOFFMAN & CURTISS. They have had many
years' experience, and have spared neither expense nor pains
to make their distillation perfect, and their brands of whiskey
from wheat, barley, or rye, have been pronounced unsurpassed.
At their distillery in New Jersey, occupying a whole block
(see cut No. 2), they ordinarily consume fifteen hundred
bushels of grain per day, producing about one hundred and
fifty barrels of spirit. This distillery is one of the most per-
fect of its kind in the States. From thence the spirit is taken
to the rectifying house at 362 Greenwich street, N. Y., as
represented in cut No. 3. Here it is thoroughly purified, and
is then conveyed to the warehouses, at Nos. 366 and 368
Washington street (see our first engraving), in which are
stored on the five floors of the building thousands of barrels
of whiskey, where they are kept to acquire age, the several
floors varying from the new distillation to five years old. We
have not entered into a full detail of the process of distillation,
as we believe it is pretty generally known, but we would make
mention of two articles manufactured by this firm, which
deserve especial notice. The first is a superior spirit, perfectly
pure, without taste or smell, which they call " Excelsior pure
spirits," and which we think must prove invaluable to per-
fumers and druggists. The other they have patented" under
the brand of Hoffman & Curtis^ Superior Excelsior Gin.
This is distilled from rye and barley malt, and the Italian
juniper berry, and is equal to the best Holland gin ever im-
ported into this market. The. difference between Holland and
domestic gin is imputed by Americans to the difference in the
two kinds of grain. If so, why did not the American grain
exported to Europe during the Russian war, and which was
there distilled into gin, impart to it the flavor which character-
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 151
izes our domestic gin ? It did not do so ; it was Holland gin
to the taste, although manufactured from American grain.
The fact is, it is simply a prejudice against domestic manu-
facture, and whilst the pure Holland and domestic gins are
both wholesome beverages in moderation, there is a large
amount of impure poison made to be sold at a price to com-
pete with the domestic as real " Holland Gin," which does
incalculable mischief. We think Messrs. II. & Co.'s " Excel-
sior" ought to drive the rubbish from the market.
The articles manufactured by this firm are the following, all
warranted pure and free from any deleterious- mixture : Pure
Spirits, plain ; American Brandy ; American Gin ; Excelsior
Gin, equal to Holland Gin ; N. E. Rum ; Cider Brandy,
Excelsior Spirits (distilled), wholly free from flavor; Cologne
Spirits, 95 per cent, (flavorless); Alcohol, 95 per cent.; Mo-
nongahela Whiskey ; Bourbon Whiskey ; Clarified Whiskey ;
Steam Refined Whiskey ; Cherry Rum ; Cherry Brandy ;
Cordials, Peppermint, <fcc. ; W r ines Port, Madeira, Sherry,
Malaga made from the imported White and Red Wines, free
from any deleterious admixture ; American Cognac Brandy,
distilled from prunes and ordinary raisins, will be found to
compare favorably with the imported Rochelle Cognac Brandy ;
Burning Fluid, <fcc.
Of course an establishment of this magnitude gives employ-
ment to a considerable number of hands. They have ordi-
narily in their employ about fifty persons, in the various
departments, which number in the busy season is considerably
increased. Messrs. Hoffman & Curtiss have spared neither
labor nor money in producing the purest and most perfect
articles, and they have been rewarded with a high appreciation
of their manufacture by consumers, and we can only wish
them a continuance and increase of prosperity, hoping before
long to see the absurd prejudice against American liquors done
away with, as in ninety-nine cases out of one hundred they
are far more beneficial than the so-called imported liquors.
A VISIT TO A PIANO FACTORY.
WITH SOMETHING ABOUT THE ORIGIN OF MUSIC AND PIA>708.
The birds instructed man,
And taught him songs before his art began.
And while soft evening gales blew o'er the plains,
And shook the sounding reeds, they taught the swains,
And thus the pipe was framed, and tuneful reed.
Such was Lucretius's idea of tlie origin of musical instru-
ments of the inflatile kind as given us in his work on the
Nature of things, which, if historians do not place much reliance
on, has certainly the merit of being very poetical. The same
notion concerning wind instruments is found in Ovid's beauti-
ful account ofthe transformation of the nymph Syrinx into
reeds. But Thomas Aquinas in his "Storia della Musica" dis-
dains to follow the example of the heathen" author of the
"Metamorphoses" or the disciple of Epicurus, and leaves the
origin of music to chance ; contending that the first man was
endowed with every kind of knowledge by the Creator, and
that he excelled in music, as well as in all the arts and sciences*
Leaving these ingenious guesses and fictions, we find the
earliest authentic record of music in the Scriptures, where it is
written that Jubal, the seventh in descent from Adam, was the
father of such as handle the harp and organ. These terms,
however, must not be taken quite literally, but rather in a
generic sense signifying all instruments of a stringed and tube
kind. ' Although this is recorded in Genesis, it is pretty certain
that the Jews acquired their knowledge of music from the
Egyptians, in which country it seems to be pretty well agreed
the art originated, and acquired great perfection, as is evidenced
by the researches of modern travellers. Bruce found in Thebes
THE UNKXtf SKETCH BOOK. 153
a fresco painting of a harp evidently of a very ancient origin-
In form, dimensions, and ornament, this instrument might be
mistaken for one of modern date, insomuch, that when a draw-'
ing was shown of it in London, doubts were thrown on its
fidelity. Forty years after, however, M. Denon bore testimony
to the truth of Bruce's description, and the accuracy of the
sketch, thus evidencing that great proficiency was attained in
the art centuries ago.
The origin of the Square Piano Forte does not date back over
a century ago ; it was the invention of a German mechanic,
named Viator, the idea being taken from the Clavichord, but it
is only like this latter instrument in its shape, with the same
dispositions of strings and keys ; in action it is totally dissimilar.
The invention was immediately taken up by other makers, who left
their Clavichords and Harpsichords for the new instrument, the
earliest and largest maker known being Zumpe, who realized
a large fortune and retired. The Grand Piano Forte is supposed
to be of earlier date than the square, and is variously attributed
to a German named Schrceder, and to a harpsichord maker
named Curistofali, of Padua. The Grand Piano Forte retains
the shape of the instrument from which it was taken, the
harpsichord, and to our minds is the natural outline of the
instrument, its only objection being, its largeness.
Although we are indebted to Europe for the invention of
Piano Fortes, this country must bear away the palm for the
vast and various improvements of the last few years ; if our
space permitted we would mention some of thorn, but they fill
too long- a list to do so without being invidious. But it is
undoubtedly a fact, that owing to the superiority of American
Manufacture, there are more Pianos made in New York than
in any other part of the world, and while thirty years ago, we
imported all our instruments, we now scarcely import one,
154 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
having thus added the monopoly of a most important and
lucrative branch of industry to our domestic resources.
Prominent amongst those who have contributed to the
improvement of this greatest of instruments, must be ranked the
firm of Messrs. RAVEN, BACON & Co., established in 1829. They
have now been over thirty years in business. During this
lengthened period they have effected^" several improvements
themselves, and have always encouraged any new invention that
promised to be an inprovement ; by these means their instru-
ments are now recognised as amongst the best to be had. We
recently went over their manufactory, and although it was only
a flying visit, thanks to their courteous and lucid explanations,
we think we have mastered some of the mysteries of Piano
Forte making, which for the benefit of our readers we will
detail.
Their factory, situated at 147, 149, 151 Baxter street,
extends through to Mulberry street, having a frontage of fifty
feet by two hundred feet deep. Part of this area is occupied by
the Lumber Yard. In this yard, in lofty piles, are stored the
various woods used in the manufacture of Pianos, such as Rose-
wood, Mahogany, Cherry, Maple, Ash, White Wood, Pine,
Ebony, White Holly, Bass Wood, &c. From the Lum-
ber Yard, these woods are ^,aken to the drying rooms situated
in the basement, and also on the first floor, where they undergo a
thorough drying for three months, being subjected for the whole
of that time to a high degree of heat. They are then fit for use,
and are taken to the store room, from whence they are taken to
the different departments of the five story building as required.
Every department has different functions, and although each
man may be perfect in his department, no one man could make
a perfect Piano. In one room we sec the Rim maker, in
another the Bottom maker ; we pass on through various rooms,
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 155
and we see the makers of Tops, Legs, Cases, and Keys, the
bellyman, the finishers, the fly finishers, the regulators, tuners,
varnishers and polishers, the block makers, the lyric action
maker, and the stringer. Each of these is a separate branch
of business, and it takes from six to nine months before a perfect
piano can be turned out of their factory. During their thirty
years' experience, they have manufactured about eight thousand
pianos, ordinarily employing in the 'different departments about
one hundred men.
Messrs. Raven, Bacon & Co., have their warerooms at 135
Grand street, where they have on hand a beautiful assortment
of Pianos, both Grand and Square. They have lately given
their especial attention to the Grand, and have succeeded in
manufacturing a very superior Piano, which will stand any
climate without warping or losing tone. These Pianos are
pronounced by judges as being perfect both in tone and make.
Let those intending purchasing, pay them a visit
The following is given as the new mode of parsing, down
east, " I court." Court is a verb active, indicative mood, present
tense, and agrees with all the girls in the neighborhood.
A lady In an omnibus at Washington espied the great
unfinished dome of the capitol, and said innocently, " I suppose
those are the gas-works ?" " Yes, madam, for the nation" was
the reply of a fellow-passenger.
An architect proposes to build a " Bachelors' Hall," which
will differ from most houses in having no Eves.
GUNPOWDER.
For men (it is reported) dash and vapor
Less on the field of battle than on paper.
Thus in the history of each dire campaign
More carnage loads the newspaper than plain.
DR. "WOLCOTT.
Now that "grim-visaged war" has appeared in our midst a
few words about this most destructive article may not be out
of place. The date of its invention is lost in obscurity ; some
writers make mention of it as early as A.D. 85 ; others say it
was used by the Arabs at the siege of Mecca, in 690, and others
again ascribe the invention of it to Berthold Schwartz, a
monk, about the year 1336. But the generally received opi_
^nion is, that it was known to the Chinese and Indians, long
prior to "the Christian era, and was doubtless discovered by
accident.
Gunpowder consists of a very intimate mixture of nitre,
charcoal, and sulphur. The proportions vary for different
kinds, but generally consist of about three-qXiarters nitre, to
one-eighth charcoal, and one-eighth sulphur. The ingredients
are separately ground to a fine powder, then mixed, rolled, and
again ground, and taken to the corning Jjouse to be grained.
The mixing process is a very delicate one, as the strength of
the powder depends upon the proportions being equally pre-
served. The powder when grained is passed through a series
of sieves, first to separate the dust from it and also the different
sized grains ; v from thence it is taken to the stove and dried,
care being taken not to raise the heat so as to dissipate the
sulphur.
The theory of the action of gunpowder is this : That parti-
cle of it on which a spark falls is immediately heated to a state
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 157
of ignition, the nitre is decomposed, and its oxygen combines
with the charcoal and sulphur which are also heated. The
combination extricates as ranch heat as is sufficient to inflame
successively, though rapidly, the remaining mass, liberating car-
bonic acid, carbonic oxide, and nitrogen, which forms the explo-
sive power of gunpowder.
One of the largest works for the manufacture of this article
in this country, or indeed we -may say in the world, is that
known by the name of the HAZARD. POWDER COMPANY. The
main works are situated at Hazard ville, upon the Scantic
river. The Company have also mills at ScitTco, East Hartford,
Conn., and at Canton in the same state. -They have been esta-
blished for nearly a quarter of a century, and these mills at these
various places extend over a distance of more than a mile in
length, and half a mile in width ; these mills consist in part
of eighteen sets of rolling mills, with iron wheels, each wheel
weighing eight tons ; seven- different granulating mills ; seven
screw presses, and three hydraulic presses of four hundred
tons power each, some twenty-five to thirty dusting, sorting
drying, glazing, and packing houses; with extensive saltpetre
refineries and magazines; cooper shops, iron and wood machine
shops, stables, outhouses, <kc. In all over one hundred and
twenty-five buildings, giving employment to hundreds of hands,
which, notwithstanding the hazardous nature of the business,
they find no difficulty in obtaining.
The moving power to set this vast mass of machinery in
motion, consists of twenty-five water-wheels and two steam-
engines, one being a very large and beautifully constructed low-
pressure engine, the whole comprising one of the most complete
and perfect gunpowder manufactories in the world.
They manufacture annually over one million dollars' worth of
the various brands known as Government, Sporting, Shipping,
158 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
and Mining Powder, the quality and reputation of which are well
known all over this country as well as in Europe. During
the Crimean war this Company manufactured ten thousand
barrels of powder for the British Government, the English
works not being able to turn out sufficient for their con-
sumption, and they had the gratifying information from
officers of the British Army, that these ten thousand barrels
of powder were of superior quality to any they had used
before.
The office of the HAZARD POWDER COMPANY in New York, is
at 89 Wall street* corner of Water, and while wishing the house
success in their business, which their enterprise deserves, we
hope that the article may increase in demand, for although
(paradoxical as it may seem) a powerful destroyer, it is yet a
benefactor. It levels our roads, bores tunnels for our railroads,
clears the channels of our rivers from rocks, helps to dig our
canals, and is most useful in our ntines. In these it is a power-
ful agent of civilization, and we hope we may want its utmost
aid for many years to come. in subduing our vast extent of terri-
tory from wilderness to cultivation.
Fanny Fern lately said : " If one-half of the girls only
knew the previous life of the men they marry, the list of old
maids would be wonderfully increased."
But the Boston Post asks : " If the men knew, Fanny, what
their future lives were to be, wouldn't it increase the list of old
maids still further ?"
Swinging is said by the doctors to be a good exercise for
health, but many a poor wretcli has come to his death by it.
REPEATING FIRE-ARMS.
Then said the mother to her son,
And pointed to his shield
" Come with it when the battle's done,
Or ow it, from the field." MONTGOMERY.
We recently paid a visit to the Manufactory of Colt's Patent
Fire-arms Manufacturing, Co., at Hartford, Conn., and although
we were prepared to find a large establishment, our ideas fell
far short of its actual magnitude. At the present moment,
the manufactory is, running night and day, employing o*er
eleven hundred hands, and so great is the demand for fire-
arms of this "patent, that even this large force can scarcely
supply it. We purpose in the present article giving a descrip-
tion of this manufactory, with some items respecting the origin
of this invention, for which we are indebted to a paper read
by Col. Colt before the Institution of Civil Engineers in London
in 1851.
It appears that, while a very young man, Mr. Colt had paid
much attention to the subject of fire-arms. In the paper pre-
viously mentioned, he remarks : " The author, living in a
country of most extensive frontier, still inhabited by hordes of
aborigines, and knowing the insulated position 'of the enter-
prising pioneer and his dependence, sometimes alone, on his
personal ability to protect himself and family, had often medi-
tated upon the inefficiency of the ordinary double-barrelled
gun and pistol, both involving a loss of time in reloading,
which was too frequently fatal in the peculiar character of
Indian border warfare. By the United States Government,
also, it was considered an object of great importance to obtain
an effective repeating arm, as the peculiar characteristic of the
mode of attack by the mounted Indians was to overwhelm
small bodies of American soldiers by rushing down on them
in greatly superior numbers, after having drawn their fire, and
.160 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
to dispatch them, while in a comparatively defenceless state,
from the necessity of reloading their arms. After much
reflection and repeated trials, he effected an arrangement in
the construction of revolving fire-arms, without having seen, or
being aware, at that period (1829), of any arm more effective
than a double-barrelled gun having ever been constructed, and
it was only during a visit to Europe, in the year 1835, that he
discovered he was not the first person who had conceived the
idea of repeating fire-arms with a rotating chambered-breech."
Undoubtedly the whole idea 'and construction of his wonder-
fully efficient weapon was entirely original with Colonel Colt,
and most likely these are among the prominent reasons of the
great triumph of his efforts. Had he been furnished with the
results of those who preceded him, probably he would have too
nearly followed in their tracks, and thus have been diverted
from the goal of success. This hypothesis has, in a measure,
been illustrated in some of the minor acts of his life ; and we
understand that the theory now practised by him is to depend
solely on his personal resources. If he wishes to accomplish a
certain object, let it be a new application of machinery, or
what not, he desires no rehearsal of the efforts of others ; but,
in his own way, and by his own personal ingenuity, the result
is produced.
The original conception of Colonel Colt, in regard to fire-
arms, was the combination of a number of long barrels to
rotate upon a spindle, by the act of cocking the lock, in the
same manner that they have since been made by others, who
claim to have originated the plan ; but, as objections arose
from the weight and bulk of the arm, in his study to obviate
them, the idea of a single barrel and a chambered breech sug-
gested itself to him. Although without the pecuniary means
of then practically testing His convictions, he made a small
wooden model of his conception, which he possesses at the
present day. He then assiduously pursued his calling, as a
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 161
scientific lecturer, and from its rewards procured the aid to
manufacture specimen arms, which in their practical results
exceeded even his own most sanguine expectations; and in
1835 he received his first patent from the Government of the
United States.
After procuring this patent, Colonel Colt's want of pecuniary
aid placed him in the situation of most successful inventors,
and his only course was to engage the attention of capitalists
to form a company, which he succeeded in doing in 1836.
This company lasted till 1842, when they had to suspend
operations. From that' time, till 1847, none were manu-
factuced, and the stock previously in hand was completely
exhausted. The Mexican war breaking out in this year,
General Taylor, who had witnessed the utility of these weapons
in Florida, sent Captain Walker to procure a supply of revolvers
from Col. Colt, but not one could be found. Col. Colt, how-
ever, was equal to the emergency. He was then looked upon
as a ruined man, but he thought otherwise, and at once con-
tracted to furnish the Government one thousand arms. From
that day to the present his business has been a constant
success, and has resulted in the completion of the most perfect
establishment for the manufacture of fire-arms that exists on
this or any other continent.
AYithin the corporate limits of the City of Hartford, imme-
diately below the Little or Mill River, is a section of land, con-
taining about 250 acres, which, owing to its formerly being
submerged at the periodical freshets of the Connecticut River,
was available at certain seasons only, and then but for grazing.
Colonel Colt selected and purchased this spot as his field of
operations. His first move was to erect an embankment, or
dyke, by which the waters of the Connecticut were entirely
and permanently excluded; thus reclaiming the land for build-
ing purposes or tillage, as might be desired. This embank-
ment is about two miles long, averaging over one hundred feet
162 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
wide at the base, and over forty feet in width at the top, and
from ten to twenty feet in height. It is built in the most sub-
stantial manner, the sides being covered with osier, both for
protection ahd ornament. From the smoothness of the road,
and the beautiful scenery in the vicinity, the dyke has become
the fashionable drive of the citizens.
The new armory is located about one hundred yards south
of the mouth of Little River, immediately inside of the dyke,
and fronting on the west side of the Connecticut River. It
was finished and operations commenced in it in the Fall of
1855. The ground plan of the principal buildings forms the
letter H- It is a massive structure of brown sand-stone, of the
variety usually designated "Portland freestone." The front
parallel is 500 feet long, 60 wide, and three stories high ; at
the centre, for about sixty feet of the front, there is a projection
of eighteen feet wide, surmounted by a pediment. This forms
ample space for hall and stairways to give access to the several
stories. On top is the cupola, with a canopy of blue embla-
zoned with gilt stars, the whole surmounted by a large gilt
ballj on which stands a COLT, rampant. The rear parallel is
500 feet long by 40 wide ; the centre building is 150 feet long
by 60 wide, and three stories high. At each end, between the
extremities of the parallels, are two small two-story dwellings,
both of which are occupied by the 1 watchman ; from these
erections to the main buildings are heavy walls, with massive
gates; thus the space inclosed by the stone walls is just 500 by
250 feet square. Nearly adjoining on the north, and connected
to the main building by a light lattice-work bridge, is a brick
building, three stories high, 60 by 75 feet square, and sur-
mounted by a turret and clock. This is occupied by the offi-
cers, and as a ware room.
The motive power is located about the centre of the main
building. It consists of a beam engine cylinder, 36 inches
in diameter, 7 feet stroke, fly-wheel 30 feet in diameter, weigh-
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 163
ing 7 tons. This engine, which is rated at 250 horse-power, is
supplied with the well-known "Sickel's Cut-off," which the
superintendent and engineer speak of as the most useful and
important addition to the steam-engine since the days of Watt.
The steam is furnished from two cylindrical boilers, each 22
feet long and 7 feet diameter. The power is carried to the
attic by a belt working on the fly-wheel ; this belt is 118 feet
long by 22 inches wide, and travels at the rate of 2500 feet per
minute.
Leaving the office we cross the bridge, pass down through
the machine shop, engine room, etc., to the rear parallel, an
apartment 40 by 50 feet square, the centre of which is appro-
priated as the store-room for iron and steel. Large quantities
of these materials, in bars and rods, are stored here in charge
of a responsible party, whose duty it is to fill the orders from
the contractors, and render an accurate statement of such
deliveries to the main storekeeper's department. This latter
system is universal throughout the establishment thus the
materials of all kinds can be readily accounted for, no matter
what their state of transposition.
We now pass into the forge shop, an apartment 40 by 200
feet square, comprising the whole of one arm of the parallel.
Along each side range stacks of double-covered forges the
blasts for which, entering and discharging through flues in the
walls, carry off the smoke and gases. Here, for the first time
in our life, we were in a blacksmith's shop in full operation, yet
free from smoke and cinders, and with' a pure atmosphere.
Several kinds of hammers are used those most in use, how-
ever, being "drops" of a novel construction and peculiar to the
establishment ; they are raised on the endless screw principle,
and tripped by a trigger at the. will of the operator. All the
parts of the fire-arm composed of iron or steel are forged in
swedges, in which, although they may have ever so many pre-
liminary operations, the shape is finally completed at a single
164 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
blow. That some idea may be formed of the amount of work
on a single rifle or pistol, we have determined to state the
number of separate operations of each portion, and in each
department. We adopt the navy or belt pistol, the weight of
which is thirty-eight ounces, as the example. In forging, the
number of separate heats are enumerated : lockframe, 2 ; barrel?
3 ; lever, 2 ; rammer, 1 ; hammer, 2 ; hand, 2 ; trigger, 2 ; bolt,
2 ; main spring, 2 ; key, 2 ; nipples, 2 each, 12 ; thus we find
that no less than thirty-two separate and distinct operations,
some of which contain in themselves several subdivisions, are
required in the forging for a single pistol.
After forging, each piece is inspected, and, if passed, is
removed to the annealing ovens, which are situated in the
foundry this latter occupying the opposite arm of the rear
parallel, its dimensions also being 40 by 200 feet. The arrange-
ments here for both brass and iron castings are on a liberal
scale ; the former is mostly for mountings, bullet-moulds, etc.
the latter for machinery. After being annealed, the forgings
are immersed in a chemical preparation to cleanse them by
removing the scales and dirt; they are now ready for milling*
shaping, etc.
It is unnecessary to describe all the operations performed by
the machines; a few will render the whole understandable.
Taking the lockframe, for instance : they commence by fixing
the centre, and drilling and tapping the base for receiving the
arbor or breech-pin, which has been previously prepared the
helical grove cut in it, and the lower end screwed once
grasped is firmly fixed into its position, furnishing a definite
point from which all the operations are performed, and to
which all the parts bear relation. The facing and hollowing
of the recoil shield and frame, the cutting and sinking the
central recesses, the cutting out all the grooves and orifices,
planing the several flat surfaces and shaping the curved parts,
prepare the frames for being introduced between hard steel
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 165
clamps, through which all the holes are drilled, borc'd and
tapped for the various screws; so that, afte*r passing through
thirty-three distinct operations, and the little hand-finishing
required in removing the burr from the edges, the lock-frame
is ready for the inspector. The rotating, chambered cylinder is
turned out of cast-steel bars, manufactured expressly for the
purpose. The machines, after getting them the desired length,
drill centre holes, square up ends, turn for ratchet, turn exterior,
smooth and polish, engrave, bore chambers, drill partitions^
tap for nipples, cut pins for hammer-rest and ratchet, and
screw in nipples. In all there are thirty-six separate operations
before the cylinder is ready to follow the Jock-frame to the
inspector. In the same manner the barrel, forged solidly from
a bar of cast steel, is bored and completed to calibre, and is
then submitted to the various operations of planing, grooving
the lower projection beneath the barrel, with which the base
pin is ultimately connected, tapped, and then rifled. The
barrel goes through forty-five separate operations on the
machines. The other parts are subject to about the following
number: lever, 27; rammer, 19; hammer, 28; hand, 20;
trigger, 21; bolt, 21; key, 18; -sear spring, 12; fourteen
screws, seven each, 98 ; six cones, eight each, 48 ; guard, 1 8 ;
handle-strap, 5 ; stock, 5. Thus it will be observed that the
greater part of the labor is completed in this department.
Even all the various parts of the lock are made by machinery,
each having its relative initial point to work from, and on the
correctness of which the perfection depends.
As soon as completed the different parts are carried to the
story above, which, with the exception of the machinery and
the columns through the centre, is an exact counterpart of the
room below. It is designated the Inspecting and Assembling
Department. Here the different parts are most minutely
inspected; this embraces a series of operations which in the
aggregate amount to considerable ; the tools to inspect acylin-
166 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
cler, for example, are fifteen in number, each of which must
gauge to a hair ; the greatest nicety is observed, and it is
absolutely impossible to get a slighted piece of work beyond
this point. On finishing his examination, the inspector
punches his initial letter on the piece inspected, 'thus pledging
his reputation on its quality.
The mountings, consisting of the handle-strap and guard,
which are composed of gun-metal, are cast, and afterwards
worked up in the machines, in the same manner as the other
metal work. The woodwork of the stock is also shaped by
machinery.
Each part having been thus far completed in itself,
now comes the first uniting, or assembling, as the workmen
term it. Let us get our navy pistol in shape ; to do so
we will want a cylinder barrel, lock-frame, hammer, trigger,
bolt, key, main-spring, hand, sear-spring, lever, rammer, guard,
back-strap, stock, and a number of peculiar screws. These
are readily united by the assembler, and our pistol assumes its
material shape. It is now numbered ; to make it special, we
will designate our number as 13,565 ; the imprint of the
establishment, " Address Colonel Sam. Colt, Hartford, Conn.,"
is also stamped on at this time. It is now -carefully taken
apart, all the. pieces being stamped the particular number of
the arm ; and thus our barrel, cylinder, etc., each with a quan-
tity of his fellows, are taken away for their final finishing.
Most of the metal work is carried to the dry polishing shop
a room sixty feet square, located in the third story of the
centre building. Here it is polished on emery and other
wheels, about half a yard in diameter, the operatives sitting at
their work, as observed in the illustration. After inspection,
the barrels and cylinders are handed over for the blueing pro-
cess an operation that requires nicety and practical experi-
ence. The ovens for this, as well as for the case-hardening
to which process all the iron work is submitted as well as the
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 167
forges for tempering the springs, etc., are located in the forge
shop. From the polishers the mountings go to the electro-
platers, who occupy a room 25 by 40, in the basement of the
office building, where they are plated with silver, and afterwards
burnished. The wood work returns to the stock-maker's shop
a room 60 by 80, in the third story of the centre building.
This is supplied with power saws, planes, morticing, and shap-
ing machines, for wood work, and, as throughout the whole
establishment, every means is adopted for labor-saving. The
stock then comes back for varnishing and the final finishing.
On their final completion, all the parts are delivered to the
general store-keeper's department, a room 60 feet wide by
190 feet long, situated in _ the second story of the central
building, and extending over the rear parallel. All the hand-
tools and materials (except the more bulky kinds) are distri-
buted to the workmen from this place; several clerks arc
required to parcel the goods out, and keep the accounts ; in
fact, it is a store, in the largest sense of the term, and rather
on the wholesale principle at that. On the reception of
finished, full sets of the parts of the pistols, they are once more
carried up to the assembling room ; but this time' to another
corps of artisans. Guided by the numbers, they are once
more assembled ; and now, although each portion has asso-
ciated with scores of its fellows, and gone through many dis-
tinct operations in distant parts of the establishment, our
particular pistol, number 13,565, is re-assembled as first
united, and the finished arm is laid on a rack, ready for the
prover ; of course many others accompany it to the depart-
ment of this official, which is located in the third story of the
rear building. Here each chamber is loaded with the largest
charge possible, and practically tes_ted by firing ; after which,
they are wiped out by the prover, and returned to the inspec-
tion department. The inspectors again take them apart,
thoroughly clean and oil them, when they are for the last time
168 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
put together, and placed in a rack for the final inspection.
The parts having been so thoroughly examined and tested, it
would seem that this last inspection was scarcely necessary ;
but, after a short observation, we saw several laid aside.
Taking up one with a small mark on the barrel " Why do
you reject this ? " we inquired. " Pass this to-day, and pro-
bably much larger blemishes would appear to-rnorrow." The
order from the Principal is perfection ; and a small scratch in
the bluing or varnish is sufficient to prevent the arm passing.
The finished arm is now returned to the store room ; from
whence, after being papered, they are sent to the wareroorn
situated in the basement of the office building; from this they
are sent to nearly every portion o the habitable globe.
We have thus given a brief review of Colt's arms manufac-
turing company, which our want of space has forced us to
condense so much, that we fear we have failed to convey a
very forcible idea of its extent ; a volume could be written on
the subject, and even then leave' room for more, so numerous
and varied are the different operations carried on in this esta-
blishment.
This company has an office, and samples of their manufac-
tures, at No. 240 Broadway, New York.
Why will America's emblem outlive those of England,
France, Ireland, and Scotland ? Because the rose must fade
the lily droop the shamrock die the thistle wither, but the
stars are eternal.
John Reeve was accosted by an elderly man with a small
bottle of gin in his hand, " Pray, sir, I beg your pardon, is this
the way to the workhouse ?" John, pointing to the bottle,
gravely said, " No, my man, but tlmt i ! ''
SHOT, LEAD, PIPE, Ac.
Ah me ! what perils do environ
The man that meddles with cold iron.
BUTLER.
Unquestionably the most extensive establishment for the
manufacture of the above-named articles is that of Messrs.
THOMAS OTIS LEROY & Co., Nos. 261 and 203 Water street,
New York.
The facilities of this firm for the manufacture of lead pipe,
sheet lead, pure block tin pipe, sheet tin. drop and buck shot,
bar lead, musket and rifle balls, are unsurpassed, having a large
and well regulated factory, and machinery of the most improved
construction for the business. Their machinery for the manu-
facture of lead and tin pipe, is superior to any other in use,
from the perfection of the article it produces ; and the privilege
of using it,' is enjoyed by this firm exclusively. Their drop shot
is also manufactured under a patent, which, by a very simple
operation, furpishes a quality of shot which has never been
excelled. The quality of their buck shot and balls is superior
to any other made in this country, as it is compressed and
much more perfect than possible to make it in any other way.
They are the only manufacturers who make buck shot and bul-
lets by this method.
This establishment consumes annually about 6,000 tons of
pig lead, besides large quantities of block tin.
They keep a large stock constantly on hand of U. S. Minie
musket and rifle balls, and every description of round and coni-
cal bullets on hand or made to order.
Hood once admonished a gossiping Christian to beware lest her
piety should prove, after all, to be nothing better than mag-piety.
8
FANCY GOODS, FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC.
"We live in deeds, not years in thoughts, not breaths
In feelings, not in figures on a dial ;
We should count time by heart-throbs. He most lives,
"Who thinks most feels the noblest acts the best.
BETLEK.
The list of goods nnder this heading has of late years been
so continually increased, that at the present moment it
would require a Look of considerable magnitude to convey
anything like an accurate idea of the almost endless variety of
goods that are required for a stock of any of the first class
dealers of New York. As our space does not admit of a de-
tailed account of them we shall content ourselves with
brief description of -one of the largest fancy goods stores in
the city, together with some facts and figures which may prove
of interest, and at the same time serve to convey some idea
of the importance of this trade.
We allude to the firm of Gary, Howard, Sangcr & Co.,
who have been in tire business nearly thirty-five years, during
which lengthened period they have had the opportunity of
.contributing materially to the development of the manufac-
ture of Domestic Fancy Goods. In the earlier stages of their
business a very large number of articles were obtained exclu-
sively from abroad. Now, these same articles are mostly
manufactured here. Messrs. C. H. S. & Co. early perceived
the advantage to the country of manufacturing at home, in-
stead of importing, and assisted both pecuniarily and other-
wise, several manufacturers, to establish themselves, and the
consequences have been so much more labor employed, and so
many more of the resources of our country developed. For
their own contribution to home labor, they established a
manufactory for Horn Combs, at Newark, N. J., and for Ivory
Combs, at Deep River, Conn., both of which are of the largest
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 171
class, and in point of equipments and quality of productions,
second to none.
To give our readers an idea of their extensive establishment,
let them imagine a six-story iron building of very beautiful
architecture, having a frontage on two of the principal business
streets of New York of 50 feet, extending through 150 feet,
and on opening any of the doors on the first floor see the
whole of this extensive area at one glance, there being nothing
to obstruct the view save the iron columns supporting the
floors above ; between these columns are innumerable counters
with passages running at right angles. On these counters, to
the right, to the left, and in front, are displayed the goods
the product of the taste and ingenuity of three continents, yes,
perhaps we might say four continents, although Africa does
not at the present moment contribute much to the tasteful
ingenuity of the world. The eye cannot take in at one glance
the immense variety of goods presented to it. Prominently
we see the larger and more valuable articles of Bronzes,
Jewelry, Watches, Clocks, Dressing Cases ; but on closer
inspection we find the more indispensable and unpretending
articles of domestic use. Here are Combs, Buttons, Sewing
Silk, Stationery, &c. This floor forms a kind of sample-room
from which to select the smaller kinds of fancy goods, and the
more valuable articles of jewelry, &c., while the great bulk of
the stock is stored in the floors below. Descending to the
basement we see a very large assortment of Perfumery,
Threads, Spool Cottons, Brushes, Suspenders, Tapes, Hooks
and Eyes, Pins, and other bulky articles ; Here also is the office
of the entry and shipping clerks, which is a scene of incessant
activity in the busy seasons.
In the floor below this is the packing and store-room for
whole packages, which are transferred from the street to this
floor, and vice versa, by means of hoistways of very ingenious
machinery. These floors are forty feet longer than the otlu-rs,
and capable of containing an immense number of packages,
172 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
which are stored with such perfect order and system, that any
special one can ie reached at any moment.
From the street-floor we ascend by a large double staircase
to another, in which is arranged the Fancy Hardware, Cutlery,
Guns, Pistols, Needles, Musical Instruments, . &c., which can
only be properly and advantageously exhibited in light and
dry rooms.
We have thus briefly enumerated some of the principal
articles exhibited in the store occupied by Messrs. C. H. S. &
Co. ; to go into detail would be impossible, as they have over
fifteen hundred different kinds of merchandize, each of these
being again subdivided into ten times the number of varieties,
and perhaps even more than that.
The Store at Nos. 105 and 107 Chambers, and 89 and 91
Reade street, was built in 1857, by Mr. W. H. Gary, the
senior member of the firm, at a cost of $200,000. Being
designed for their business, it may be regarded as the most
complete, spacious, and elegant warehouse of any in this trade
in the world, while the beautiful architecture of the two fronts,
both of the same design, forms quite an attractive feature of
our city. In^ this store they employ over fifty persons, while
their factories at Newark and Deep River, for the making of
raw-horn and ivory combs of every description, give employ-
ment to hundreds of mechanics and laborers.
It may well be imagined that a business of so varied and
intricate a character would require the exercise of much fore-
thought and good management. With a large class of buyers
scattered broadcast "throughout this and other countries, a
peculiar system becomes necessary, and it is pleasing to ob-
serve throughout the establishment the constant exercise of
that wisdom, vigilance, and harmonious arrangement, which
always bespeak the qualifications of the true business man.
One of the peculiar advantages of a business 'such as we
have described, where, as before stated, are to be found upwards
of fifteen hundred different articles, is, that it saves to purcha-
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 173
sers much time and perplexity, ordinarily occasioned by seek-
ing goods at various places.
Having thus briefly given an outline sketch of the largest
and most complete establishment of the kind in the world, we
conclude by saying that this house alone is the most satisfac-
tory evidence of the triumphs of American excellence in com-
merce and the fine arts.
The5ngle lady of a certain age is a personage scarcely at all
seen, at any rate in her proper position, except in England. In
Roman Catholic countries she takes refuge in a convent; she is
hardly considered respectable ; whereas here, she is respecta-
bility itself! The old maid of old novels and plays, indeed,
prim, censorious, and spiteful, is disappearing. In her place we
have a most cheerful, contented, benevolent, and popular lady,
seldom behind the fashion or behind the news and literature of
the day beloved by nephews and nieces, married brothers and
sisters, and cousins ; a tower of strength in times of sickness
and family troubles ; a favorite visitor, yet not always visiting,
nor staying too long ; sometimes, on the contrary, having a
snug little home of her own, where pet nieces and nephews:
spend a few days most delightfully ; a guardian angel to the
poor ; a valuable auxiliary to the clergyman and clergyman's
wife; in high esteem and respect among the tradespeople; a
famous letter-writer, and the fabricator of most beautiful fancy
work. Of this genus we are privileged to know several speci-
mens, some of whom, we are bold to hope, will bridle when
they read this little account, and say, with a pleased, half-
doubtful look : " Well, I'm sure, this can't be me !" Yes, it is
you, aunt Kate and aunt Maria, and ever so many aunts with
pretty names, and who have been pretty young women in your
time, and who now have something dearer than beauty. You
are the salt of the country ; as long as you are the objects and
subjects of such warm and kindly feeling, you greatly contri-
bute to the support of the social affections.
NEW YORK HOSPITAL,
Situated between Duane and Worth streets, is a most important
benevolent institution, of which, indeed, there is a goodly num-
ber in New York. It dates back to 1771, when it was founded
by the Earl of Dunmore, who was at that time governor of the
colony. The accommodation for patients, which of late years
has been grea'tly enlarged, is very extensive, and excellent in
every respect. It is a receptacle in cases of sudden accidents.
It is not altogether gratuitous ; but, to such as are able to pay
a little, it offers most important advantages four dollars a week
commanding the best medical attendance, besides nursing and
medicine. The students, too, have the benefit, for a small annual
fee, of accompanying the surgeons in their rounds.
A new theatre is now nearly completed on Broadway above
13th st., having an entrance on the latter and running through to
Fourth Avenue. We should have liked to have given some par-
ticulars about it, but when we applied for information, sending
in to his H. J. H., the lessee, our piece of pasteboard, that mag-
nate declined seeing us or giving any particulars, so we can only
satisfy the public there is a building said to be intended for a
theatre located on that spot; and we will further inform them,
that should they at any time visit it they will find exactly oppo-
site the 13th street entrance a most genial clever fellow by the
name of Thorp, whose oysters and other refreshments have been
celebrated from time immemorial ; should they experience a
vacuum in the interior (which nature abhors) he will satisfy it
with the choicest the market affords. The principal entrance
to the hotel is 838 Broadway.
ENGRAVING.
Such is the strength of art, rough things to shape,
And of rude commons, rich enclosures make.
HOWKLL.
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
Engraved on Wood and Electrotyped by A. H. Jocelyn, 80 Fulton st, New York.
176 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
ALBERT H. JOCELYN, 60 FULTON STREET.
.We have abundant evidence to prove that the art of Engraving
is of the remotest antiquity. In the early history of the Jews, fre-
quent mention is made of it in the Bible. Thus, from the Book
of Exodus we have the command given to Moses, " to make
a plate of pure gold and grave upon it, like the engraving of a
signet, holiness to the Lord." And again, "to take two Onyx
stones and grave on them the names of the children of Israel,
according to their birth, with the work of an engraver on
stone." Both these passages distinctly imply the practice of
gem and seal engraving, and also of engraving on metal plates,
a knowledge of which, among other arts, was doubtless acquired
by the Israelites from the Egyptians during their bondage.
From Plerodotus, we learn that one of the earliest uses to
which engraving was applied among the Greeks was, the delinea-
tion of maps on metal plates. He says (v. 49), that " Aristago-
ras appeared before thp King of Sparta with a tablet of brass
in his hand, on which was inscribed every pan of the habitable
world, the seas, and the rivers; and to this he pointed as he
spoke of the several countries between the Ionian sea and
Susa." The date of this event was 500 B.C.
That an art so abundantly capable of diffusing all kinds of
knowledge, should have been extensively practised from the
most remote antiquity, without its applicability to printing
being discovered, is a curious subject for reflection ; and we can
only imagine that its not having led to this discovery, was for
the want of material to print on ; as when the manufacture of
paper from linen rags was discovered at the latter end of the
fourteenth century, the invention of printing very shortly fol-
lowed it.
The earliest wood engraving, with a date attached to it, that
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 177
we have any knowledge of, is that known as the St. Christo-
pher, which is dated 1423 ; but no impression from an engraved
printed plate has been found anterior to 1461. Germany and
Italy both claim the invention, but Italy, we think, has the best
title to it, and it is now generally conceded to that country.
The art of Wood Engraving has made most rapid progress
during the last few years in this country, and no one individual
has contributed more to that progress than Mr. A. II. JOCELYN,
the proprietor of the " New York Wood Engraving Establish-
ment," of No. 58 and 60 Fulton street. In this establishment,
none but the most competent artists are engaged, and lie is,
therefore, enabled to produce work which, in beauty and accu-
racy of design, fineness of finish, and boldness of execution,
cannot be surpassed. Mr. J. gives his personal attention to the
fulfilment of special orders, and he has constantly on hand
several hundred original illustrations, suitable for all purposes,
and is engraving, from time to time, numerous designs for the
artistic printer ; to such and all requiring wood engravings, we
can recommend Mr. Jocelyn, as they will find in his establish-
ment the art carried to perfection in all its beautiful and inte-
resting details.
Adversity overcome is the brightest glory, and willingly
undergone, the greatest virtue. Sufferings are but the trials of
gallant spirits.
A lively Hibernian exclaimed, at a party where Theodore
Hook shone as the evening star, " Och, Master Theodore, but
you're the hook that nobody can bate"
8*
BABBITT'S PREMIUM PORTABLE FENCE.
Beside yon straggling fence, that skirts the way
"With blossom'd furze, un profitably gay,
There, in his noisy mansion, skill'd to rule
The village master taught his little school.
GOLDSMITH.
Farmers and agriculturists have long experienced the want of
a good strong endurable "portable fence. Fencing in has hitherto
been the heaviest unproductive outlay in the farm, and conse-
quently a great national tax; any improvement therefore that
will save time, facilitate operations, and diminish expenditure,
must be equally a national benefit, and we thiuk the inventor of
this fence has succeeded in effecting it.
At present many varieties of fence are in use, both of iron
and wood, of almost all conceivable shapes and forms, from the
rough worm fence of the backwoodsman to- the highly orna-
mental fence of the gentleman farmer, the first costing an
immense amount of labor to create, and the latter a large
expenditure ; both useful in their way, but neither adapted to
all the wants of a large farm, especially a cattle farm, where it
is oftentimes very desirable to be able to part off at certain sea-
sons parts of fields for pasturage and other parts for cultivation.
In such case the observing farmer will readily perceive the
advantage of a PORTABLE FENCE, that can be easily removed
from place to place as occasion may require, at a very small
cost of time and labor, and one that can be equally as well
used permanently as temporarily. The annexed engraving will
illustrate the construction of this fence. It will be observed
that the six cross rails cut square are inserted diagonally in
upright pillars resting on the ground ; these uprights are in
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
179
two parts braced together by an iron band on the upper end,
while the corner pillars have four equal separate sides tapering
n
upwards, held together in the same manner. It will thus easily
be perceived how strong a fence it will form when up, and how
easily it can be taken apart and moved from place to place.
Among the advantages of this fence are the following :
1. It is very simple can be put up and taken apart with
great ease and rapidity.
2. The rails are square, put up diagonally, thereby shedding
rain, no part touching the ground, consequently it is the most
durable fence made.
3. It is heavier at the bottom than at the top; winds take
but a slight hold of it.
4. When taken apart it occupies the least possible space, and
is very conveniently transported.
5. Unlike most other fences, it beautifies the appearance of
fields. It cannot become a covert for foul seeds and weeds.
6. Harmonizing with enlightened agriculture, by avoiding
unnecessary or useless outlay, it enables the farmer to dispense
with all interior fencing, except portions of his pasture grounds
for stock grazing. When one portion is eaten off, the fence is
removed, enclosing another portion ; and thus the stock have
the benefit of fresh pastures.
7. It is convenient for fencing off portions of large fields,
parks, and lawns for railroads and oilier public works.
180 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
8. The price of Farm Fence of six rails of good material is
from ten to twelve cents per running foot.
9. Forty rods of it can be taken up and put down in a day
by one man.
It is made of oak, hemlock, or pine, and can be made orna-
mental by attaching caps to the posts.
The inventor has many testimonials from persons in this
State and New Jersey, who have this fence in use, showing its
efficiency under all circumstances ; and some who have it in
most exposed situations further assert that the wind has no
effect upon it, neither is it liable to derangement by frost ; but,
on the contrary, in the winter it is of great use in preventing
the snow from drifting. These considerations, combined with
the advantages of economy, portability, and strength, will, we
think, prove it an invaluable article to eveiy farmer and
planter.
Should any person interested desire to see or learn farther
about this fence, the Company will gladly* furnish them every
information at the office of
THE NEW YORK FENCE COMPANY,
No. 112 William Street, New York,
W. SHATTUCK, Agent.
To whom all orders should be addressed.
As my wife, at the window, one day
Stood watching a man with a monkey,
A cart came by with a ' ' bfoth of a boy, "
Who was driving a stout little donkey.
To my wife then I spoke, by way of a joke,
" There's a relation of yours in that carriage.''
To which she replied, as the donkey she spied,
" Ah, yes, a relation by marriage I"
FIRE-PROOF SAFES.
"Wise men ne'er sit and wail their loss,
But cheerly seek how to redress their harm.
SHAKSPEARE.
The discovery and invention of Fire-Proof Safes was a tri-
umph of no inconsiderable magnitude, and the invaluable advan-
tages which their possession has secured the business man are
too well known to require encomium. For a period of nearly
twenty years Mr. SILAS C. HERRIXG has stood at the head of
his business, and his productions, which bear the name of
"Champion," have received unqualified approbation of the
leading business men of the country. The resources of Messrs.
HERRING & Co. are unlimited, as may be inferred from the fact
that they employ in their manufacturing department a force of
nearly 300 hands. At their establishment, on the corner of
Murray street and Broadway, and in the hands of their agents,
they have usually a stock of from 900 to 1200 safes, while
their annual sales do not fall short of between $300,000 and
$400,000. The principle of Herring's Patent Champion Safe,
and the process of manufacture, are thus briefly explained :
" The metal portion of these Safes consists of the stoutest
and toughest wrought bar and plate iron, and the space between
the outer and inner surfaces is filled with a chemical prepara-
tion which is the most perfect non-conductor of heat yet dis-
covered, and which cannot be affected or penetrated by fire.
This fact has been established beyond question by the results of
many experiments, attested by persons of the highest respecta-
bility. In every trial to which the genuine Herring Safe has
been subjected, whether accidental, in burning buildings, or by
agreement, for the purpose of competition, its fire-proof proper-
ties have proved immeasurably superior to those of any (so
182 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
called) fire-proof safe ever manufactured. By an improvement
upon the original Salamander, introduced by the present owner
of the patent right, the interior is rendered wholly impervious
to damp, and books, papers, and jewelry might be preserved in
one of his safes for a century without contracting a blemish
from mould or mildew. To guard against counterfeits, every
safe from the manufactory of the proprietor, and sold by him
and his agents, has a brass plate in front bearing his name."
So great is the confidence which the proprietors repose in the
efficiency of their renowned safes, that they boldly offer the
handsome sum of $1000 to any person that can show that a
Herring's Patent Champion Safe ever failed to preserve its con-
tents in an accidental fire.
The Messrs. HERRING & Co. are well known to the whole
community as enterprising and most reliable business men,
being free and liberal in all their business transactions, and fully
up to the times in all that constitutes the ingredients of success.
The style of the firm is thus designated :
S. C. HERRING & CO.,
PATENTEES AND MANUFACTURERS OP
HERRING'S PATENT CHAMPION FIRE AND BURGLAR PROOF SAFES,
WITH HALL'S PATENT POWDER-PROOF LOCK.
SOLE MANUFACTURERS OF
CEYGIER'S PATENT CHANGEABLE POWDER-PROOF LOCK,
WITHOUT KEY OR KEYHOLE.
ALSOySOLE PROPRIETORS OF
JONES' PATENT PERMUTATION BANK LOCK.
The above Safes and Locka both received separate Medals at the World's Fair, London,
In 1851, and Crystal Palace, New York, 1853-4.
WAREHOUSE, NO. 251 BROADWAY, CORNER OF MURRAY STREET,
(OPPOSITE CITT IIALL),
NEW YORK-
THE BANKING SYSTEM.
Gold is the strength, the sinews of the world ;
The health, the soul, the beauty most divine ;
A mask of gold hides all. deformities ;
Gold is heaven's physic life's restorative.
DECKER.
The Banking System, as identified with the foreign and
domestic trade of the Union, necessarily commands an import-
ant position in this work. Agriculture, manufactures, and
commerce share equally in the benefits of circulation and cur-
rency, from the fact that the United States has no national
institution, like those of Europe, to create a general system of
banking. New York, being acknowledged at the head of the
foreign and domestic exchanges of the Union, requires and has
adopted a system of her own ; hence the reason for the adjust-
ment of the balances here, and the establishment of a clearing
house.
Without entering into details respecting the merits of the
general banking system throughout the country, we may here
casually remark, that of late years private banking institutions,
as affecting the convenience of business men, have found great
favor with the public ; they have rapidly increased in number,
and are now to be found in successful operation in various parts
of the country. Prominent among them is the well known
banking house of DUNCAN, SHERMAN & Co. The building
occupied by this firm is a fine brown-stone structure, situated on
the corner of Pine and Nassau-streets. The house was origi-
nally established in 1851, by Messrs. Alexander Duncan, Watts
Sherman, and W. Ruther Duncan, and has since added to the
firm' the flames of Charles II. Dobney and David Duncan ; all
of whom have been practically educated to their business, and
184 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
whose enlarged experience has imparted a reputation to their
house second to none in the country. The business transacted
by this establishment relates to general banking business." They
receive deposits, and make loans and discounts, the same as the
city banks, grant letters for the Indies, China, Europe, etc. ;
also issue circular letters and circular notes for travellers, availa-
ble in all parts of the globe, embracing the greatest convenience
and security. With regard to interest, they allow such sums
on current balances as the activity and value of the account will
justify. The entire business of the firm, in fact, is conducted
upon a sure, solid, and systematic basis, and as affecting the
convenience and accommodation of the public, maybe regarded
as a highly useful institution. Private banking concerns con-
ducted upon the principle adopted by this house should ever
receive the sanction and approbation of the public.
PROMISES. More persons have suffered and been ruined by
making promises, and by believing in those who made them,
than by any misfortune or calamity within the circle of human
life.
New pumping machines are now being erected at New
Orleans; they are guaranteed to throw 12,500,000 gallons of
water, for city use, 150 feet high every twenty-four hours.
"Taking them one with another," said Sydney Smith,"!
believe my congregation to be the most exemplary observers of
the religious ordinances ; for the poor keep all the fasts and
the rich keep all the feasts."
PHOTOGRAPHY UPON PORCELAIN WARES.
Art is wondroxis long;
Yet to the wise her paths are ever fair,
And patience smiles, though genius may despair.
HOLMES.
On the 30th August, 1859, there issued from the Patent Office
of these United States one of the most novel and elegant inven-
tions in the art-world yet patented in the present century. We
allude to the art of photographing on porcelain, the product of
American genius and perseverance, which has successfully accom-
plished what Europeans have vainly been endeavoring to effect
for years past. This is no small triumph, when we come to con-
sider that the celebrated English manufacturer of porcelain and
china ware, Mr. Wedgewood, and the equally well known Fox
Talbot, have spent months of toil and industrious research to
effect the desired object, and that, too, backed with all the
means and appliances that wealth could furnish, together with
their well known ingenuity and perseverance, and yet have sig-
nally failed in its accomplishment.
Highly beautiful as photographs are in their present condi-
tion, .this invention (the successful effort of Professor PEIN, of
Now Jersey) has added double lustre to them. The photograph
on paper ordinarily presents a dull and sombre appearance; the
features and the likeness of course are there, but the vivid life
appearance is wanting. This in this new invention is reversed.
There, on the contrary, the object presented to the eye stands out
in bojd relief, not looking, as it. is, a picture on a flat surface,
but appearing as a projecting substance, heightened in distinctr
ness by the delicacy and vividness by which every mark is
developed on the polished surface of the porcelain. There are
other advantages also connected with this invention. They can
186 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
be as well transferred to irregular and uneven as to flat surfaces.
Thus, instead of having our tables and mantels loaded with por-
celain ornaments covered with unmeaning landscapes, or even
artistic, tasty groups of flowers, we can by this process have
them covered with portraits of dear loved friends, perhaps far
away, or some well remembered landscape, or perhaps some
wild mountain scene, or other scenes endeared by old associa-
tions upon which memory loves to linger.
Imagine for an instant the face of beauty instantaneously and
indelibly transferred to a mantel vase, or to a humbler breakfast
cup, or to any other china article that can be possibly manu-
factured ; and that too with an unimpeachable accuracy of out-
line and a minuteness of shadow rivalling if not excelling the
most elaborate products of manual labor, excelling the best pro-
ductions in accuracy and reliability of features, and you will
confess these Porcelain Photographs a marvel of ingenuity, even
in this ingenious age. We had supposed the art of photogra-
phy had been applied to nearly all the uses to which it was
capable, but we found Shakspeare was right in saying " There
are more things in heaven and earth than are dreamed of in
man's philosophy."
Some may think these are luxuries. Doubtless they are, as
are all things merely ornamental. But they are inexpensive
luxuries, the cost of them Jittle exceeding the ordinary cost of
the ornament, and far exceeding them in value as mementoes of
the loved or of the past.
We fear we have failed to delineate in our brief article half
the beauties of this splendid invention, but we advise suph as
can to visit the rooms of the AMERICAN PORCELAIN PHOTOGRAPH
COMPANY, located at 781 Broadway, and see for themselves.
We are sure they can spend a very pleasant hour there.
Those who reside in the country, and are' desirous of trans-
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 187
ferring to some porcelain ornament the likeness of themselves
or friends, or any vignette or landscape, can have it done by
forwarding an accurate photograph on paper, which can be
transferred to the vase or article desired.
Any desired information will be gladly given on addressing
THE AMERICAN PORCELAIN PHOTOGRAPH COMPANY,
781 Broadway, New York.
Peppermint, as an article of commerce, is largely grown in
Lake county, Ohio. This year over $4000 have been paid to
the producers of this article, and in Painsville the oil is worth
$12.50 per gallon.
The Savings Banks in Rhode Island have deposits to the
amount of $9,163,760 in the names of 35,405 persons. Three
of the banks are in Providence, and these have $4,344,061,
and 17, 709 depositors.
Tuscany is so rich in metallic ores that ships in the channel
of Piombino have to allow for the variation of the needle.
Sardinia has begun to utilize these mineral riches.
A Western editor thinks sewing girls cannot be expected to
compete with sewing-machines, for they haven't suqh iron con-
stitutions.
The amount of lead shipped from the Galena mines last year
was 18,553,211 pounds, valued at $1,028,442.10.
MILITARY BOOKS.
'Tis m books the chief
Of all things to be plain and brief.
BUTLER.
D. VAN NOSTRAND,
BOOKSELLER, PUBLISHER, AND IMPORTER.
Aristotle tells us that the alphabet was invented to record
sound. " Letters," he remarks, " are marks of words, and as
words. are sounds, significant letters are marks of such sounds."
This we know to be correct, and can imagine to be the idea
of the inventors of the system, the credit of which, we think,
is deservedly accorded to the Phoenicians. Writing was an
art of exceedingly slow growth ; at first it was pictorial, then
as the records became voluminous the scribes were obliged to
abridge the representations, and thus, gradually and by very
slow degrees, the pictures were superseded by the signs of
sounds, or in other words, letters were invented. But even
after the invention of this invaluable and imperishable art,
writing made but slow progress. This, as we mentioned in a
previous article, was doubtless owing greatly to the want of
material to write upon ; paper was not known, and we read
that the earliest articles Used for this purpose, were plates of
lead, copper, the bark of trees, stone, bricks, wood, ivory, and
leaves of the palm-tree. Later leather was used, and speedily
after the introduction of this, parchment, made from the*
skins of goats and sheep, was produced, and has been one of
the great means of handing down to us the records of past
ages. The first books were in the form of blocks or tablets,
the square form so much in use now was known to the
ancients, but not much valued ; when the leather and parch-
ment came into use it was found convenient t'o make the
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 189
books into rolls, and tbe volume when extended would be pro-
bably two or tbree feet in widtb, by 50 or 100 feet in length ;
we expect few of our readers would care to peruse sucb a
volume now. As a little item of interest to many, we would
mention that the word volume is a word of very ancient
origin, derived from the fact of the leaves from the palm, the
inner bark of the lime, ash, maple, and elm, being used for
writing on ; which, when rolled up together, were called
volwnen, a mass, now, anglice, volume. Notwithstanding the
immense labor required to produce a volume in those early
days, we are told that the library of Alexandria furnished
sufficient fuel to the 4,000 baths of that city for six months,
when the library was destroyed by the order of Caliph Omar,
A.D. 642. What a world of mind and thought was there lost
never to be regained.
We have given above a'few hasty facts about the origin of
letters as introductory to speaking of the works of the publisher
whose name heads this article. Mr. Van Nostrand has been
in the business from his earliest youth, and has recently
devoted his special attention to the publishing of military and
scientific works ; in fact, for naval and military books his house
is, "par excellence," the great depot of the United States, as
will be seen by the following catalogue of some of the books he
publishes.
Lt. CoL BURNS' NAVAL AND MILITARY TECHNICAL DIC-
TIONARY of the French Language. In two parts, French-English,
. 1 vol. Crown 8vo. $2 50.
THE SIEGE OF BOMARSUND, 1854. Translated from the French
by an Army Officer. 12mo. 75 eta.
RIFLES AND RIFLE PRACTICE. An Elementary Treatise upon the
Theory of Rifle Firing. By Captain C. M. Wilcox,^J.S.A. 1 vol.
12mo. With Illustrations. $1 75.
THE ARTILLERIST'S MANUAL. Illustrated .by Engravings. By
Capt. John Gibbon, U.S. A. 8vo. $5.
190 THE UNION SKETCH BOOK.
AUSTRIAN INFANTRY TACTICS. Translated by Capt. C. M.
Wilcox, Seventh Regiment, U.S. Infantry. 1 voL 12rao. Cloth.
$1.
EVOLUTIONS OF FIELD BATTERIES OF ARTILLERY. Trans-
lated from the French. By Gen. Robert Anderson, U.S.A. 32mo.
Cloth, 33 plates. $1.
THE HAND-BOOK OF ARTILLERY for the Service of the United
States. By Capt. Joseph Roberts, U.S.A. 18mo. 75 cts.
A COURSE OF INSTRUCTION in Ordnance Gunnery. By Capt. J.
G. Benton, Ordnance Department, U.S.A. 1 vol. 8vo. f 5.
NEW MANUAL OF THE BAYONET. By Capt. I. C. Kelton, U.S.A.
$1 75,
DICTIONARY of all Officers in the Army of the United States, from
1789 to January 1st, 1860, and of the Navy and Marine Corps. By
Col. Chas. K. Gardner. 2d edit, with Supplement. 1 vol. . $3.
SCHOOL OF THE GUIDES. By Col. Eugene Le Gal, 55th Regiment
N.Y.S.M. 18mo. 50 cts.
THE HAND-BOOK FOR ACTIVE SERVICE, invaluable to both
Privates and Officers. By Capt. Egbert L. Viele, late U.S.A.,
Capt. of Engineers 7th Regt, National Guard, N.Y. 12mo. $1.
NOTES ON SEA-COAST DEFENCE. By Major J. G. Barnard, U.S.
Corps of Engineers. 8vo. $1 60.
THE DANGERS AND DEFENCES OF NEW YORK By Major J.
G. Barnard, Corps of Engineers, U.S. Army. 25 cts.
A TABULAR STATEMENT of the Composition of the French Army
on a War Footing. By Capt. C. M. Wilcox, U.S. Army. 25 cts.
A TABULAR STATEMENT of the Composition of the Austrian Army
on a War Footing. By Capt. C. M. Wilcox, U.S. Army. 25 cts.
CAPTAIN J. H. WARD, U.S. NAVY. Naval Ordnance and Gunnery.
$2.
KELTON'S NEW MANUAL OF THE SWORD EXERCISE. Plates.*
$1 75.
BERRIMAN'S SWORD PLAY without a Master. $1.
CAPTAIN GRAFTON'S (U.S. A.) CAMP AND MARCH. 75 cts.
JOMINI'S CAMPAIGN OF WATERLOO. 75 cts.
A MILITARY DICTIONARY. Compris'ing Information on raising
and keeping Troops, Actual Service, &c. By Lt-Col. Henry L.
Scott, U.S.A. One large volume, 8vo. half mor. $5.
THE UNION SKETCH BOOK. 191
This latter book, the Military Dictionary, by Col. Scott
(son in-law of the veteran Gen. Scott), is a work that must
prove invaluable "to officers; the information it contains
entitles it more to the character of a Cyclopedia than to that
of a Dictionary. Besides giving the full technology of the
Military Art, it supplies the latest facts connected with the
improvements of Cannon, Fire Arms, &c. It should be in the
hands of every one of our volunteer officers.
These books, as we said before, are only a very small part
of his catalogue ; but those interested in militaiy and naval
matters will find every work they may need at his establish-
ment. All the best foreign works on military and naval
subjects are imported by him as soon as they issue from
the press. He also makes a specialty of scientific works, and
has the most complete stock of both American and Foreign
always on hand; and from his long experience in the book busi-
ness, he can supply either public or private libraries on the
most liberal terms. Paris, London, Leipsig, Dresden, &c., the
great centres of European Literature, contribute by almost
every steamer to swell his stock, and we can only recommend
all in search of the class of books we have named to visit him,
as they will be sure to find them. His address is D. Van
Nostrand, 192 Broadway, cor. John street.
""What are wages here?" asked a laborer of a boy. "I
don't know, sir." "What does your father get on Saturday
night?" "Get?" said the boy, "why, he gets as tight as a
brick."
" I go through my work," as the needle said to the idle boy.
" But not till you are hard pushed,'* as the idle boy said to the
needle.
THE LIBRARY
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
Santa Barbara
THIS BOOK IS DUE ON THE LAST DATE
STAMPED BELOW.
Series 9482
UC SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY
A 000 703 204 8
ami
IN this age of inventions, few articles have been produced of
so much value to the Shipping interest, as
GAY'S PATENT MARINE PAINT.
The principal component of this Paint is entirely new in its
application, and gives it a character possessed by no other. The
inventor was for many years a shipbuilder, and the Paint has
stood through a successful test, and is without doubt the best in
use. It is a lasting preservative when applied to either iron
or wood, and resists completely the
ACTION OF SALT WATER OK MARINE INSECTS.
To prevent fouling of the ship's bottom, it is invaluable. It is
intensely black and lustrous, giving a beautiful surface.
This Paint withstands heat to a greater degree than any
other known, and is very extensively use for
STEAMERS' PIPES, AND ALL MACHINERY
Requiring black Paint, Iron Railings, Stove Polish, and Iron
Work generally.
The New York Agents for the sale of GAY'S PATENT 1
TROUS MARINE PAINT, are
FORBES &, WILLIS,
73 South. Street.
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