The Columbus Democrat, October 13, 1883
Columbus Enterprises.
Columbus may well feel proud of the thrift and enterprise of her business men. Not only are our merchants and dealers conducting a healthy and vigorous trade at home, but many have established branch houses in other localities, thus radiating and diffusing the spirit of enterprise that animates the central body into more distant quarters. Among those who have thus extended their business beyond the confines of our own city we may mention:
L. KRAMER & CO.
This firm, not content with carrying a mammoth stock of Dry goods of all kinds and discriptions in Columbus, embracing about $50,000 worth of stock in three large store buildings, and employing in the Columbus houses twenty-one clerks and salesmen, have a large branch house in North Platte stocked with $25,000 worth of goods, and also another house in Schuyler with a stock of $20,000. This latter is one of the most elegant dry goods establishments in the west. It is under the charge of Ed. Smith, whose name alone is enough to give tone and character to the business. Their North Platte house is under the management of L. Kramer, the senior member of the firm, while Carl Kramer conducts the home house in Columbus. Carl is a Napoleon in the business, and the solid and increasing prosperity of the firm is largely due to his superior business qualities.
HULST & PRICE,
These two Columbus men together with Messrs. Jaeggi & Schubach, of our city, projected and established the large grain elevator at Albion, in this state. The business at Albion is now conducted by Messrs. Hulst & Price. Their elevator has a stoarge capacity of 20,000 bushels, with facilities for handling and shipping 30 car loads of grain per day. This firm also owns and operates a ware house at St. Edwards, and another at Cedar Rapids, in Boone county.
A. HENRY,
This gentleman together with his business in Columbus, carries on three lumber yards, one in David City, one in Platte Center, and another in Central City.
J.E. NORTH & CO.
While this firm is engaged in almost every legitimate branch of business in Columbus that can suggest itself to the human mind, they have established a grain elevator and warehouse in Platte Center. In connection with the grain business, they also buy and ship hogs. Hon. James E. North, the head of this firm, is one of the most enterprising men in Nebraska. Mr. North has contributed more than any other man to the settlement and building up of this portion of the state. To his unceaseing energy and active public spirit is due in a large measure, the prosperity of our town and community.
J.P. BECKER & CO.
The senior member of this firm, Hon. John P. Becker, is one of the founders of Columbus. It would be much easier to name the different lines of business in which Mr. Becker is not engaged than to enumerate the several branches of trade which he conducts. While Mr. Becker is ready to supply almost every human want in his many departments of business in Columbus, he also owns a controlling interest in a large flour mill on Shell Creek, about nine miles northeast of our city, together with a large stock farm and a big herd of cattle. It is said that when Mr. Becker came to Columbus he had only the traditionary $2.50 and a jack knife. Another example of what industry and honest dealing will do for a man in the west.
F. BRODFUEHRER.
The same sagacity that actuated this gentleman to first locate in the jewelery business in Columbus has recently prompted him to start a branch house at West Point, in this state, where he now carries a stock of several thousand dollars, and under the management of A. Fisher. Mr. Brodfuehrer's Columbus store is one of the finest and best stocked establishments of the kind west of Omaha, and his home trade is immense. Still we understand that he is casting around for another favorable point in which to start a second branch house. Any ordinary man would be well satisfied with the business done by Mr. Brodfueher in his Columbus house, but like our western winds, you can't chain down or quiet the engergies of a western business man. Like many others, Mr. Brodfuehrer has made his means in Columbus by hard work and honesty, that is, if a jeweler can be honest.
CHARLES SCHROEDER.
Charles Schroeder is proprietor of the Columbus Foundery, and also machine shop and wagon factory, also dealer in pumps and wind mills. He conducts a branch house at Wakefield, in Dixon county. Mr. Schroeder measures as much enterprise to the square yard as any other man in our midst. We believe when Mr. Schroeder started in Columbus his capital consisted of $1.25 and a second-hand jack knife. Young man, come west.
G. HEITKEMPER.
Mr. Heitkemper owns an elegant jewelry store in Columbus, and enjoys a large patronage. Notwithstand all this; he has a branch house at Schuyler well stocked with fine goods.
JAMES H. GALLEY & BRO.
This old Columbus firm might well be content with the busines of their Columbus house, but the spirit was upon them and they opened up a branch house at Creighton, in this state, in which they carry a $10,000 stock of dry goods.
This much we have said concerning the men who have extended their business beyond the walls. Next week we will endeavor to note a few of the leading business firms who work within the confines.
The Columbus Democrat, October 20, 1883
Columbus Enterprise.
In our last issue we noted a few of the Columbus business firms that operate branch houses in other towns. We will now, from week to ewek, mention some more of the more prominent business establishments in our city.
E.D. FITZPATRICK.
Some six years ago the passer might have noticed a small bunch of rather dilapidated tin whistles, an old fiddle and a half dozen spelling books occupying a little corner in Al. Arnold's jewelery store. The presiding elder in charge of that congregation of goods and chattels was E.D. Fitzpatrick. To-day we observe this same gentleman occupying one of the largest business houses in the city, filled with a $3,000 stock of toys, musical instruments, books, stationery, cigars, etc. During the brisk season of trade six employees are required to wait on the numerous customers of this establishment. The news department alone has a circulation of 1000 newspapers per week. Mr. Fitzpatrick during the last year completed one of the neatest residences in town. The business done by this house during the last year is from 20 to 25 per cent more than the year preceding. Mr. Fitzpatrick claims that his success is largely due to judicious advertising.
A.J. ARNOLD, JEWELRY.
Twenty-six years ago this man got into Columbus (nobody knows how) in mid winter, clad in a straw hat and linen duster. Upon taking a carefull and accurate inventory of his wealth the same was found to consist of 25 cents in cash and a lead pencil. Nineteen years ago he started in the jewelery business, and the old people say his first stock of goods was of microscopic proportions. Al. sold the first watch and clock ever sold in Platte county. Mr. Arnold is still in the jewelery business, and has a capital of over $5,000 invested in the trade, besides owning two large and valuable farms near Columbus stocked with over one hundred choice cattle. His trade during the last year is fifty per cent more than that of the year before.
DOWTY & KELLY, DRUGGISTS.
About four years ago the head of this firm, David Dowty, entered the employ of Messrs. Doland & Smith, of this city, as prescription clerk. On Jan. 1, 1881, he became one of the proprietors of the house. This establishment carries a stock of over $5,000 and their business during the last year has exceeded that of the year before by one-third. Their sales last year aggregated over 14,000. Mr. Dowty is a fitting example to our youth of what industry, careful attention to duty and moral rectitude will do for a young man.
JULIUS RAMUSSEN.
In the early spring of '72 a bare-footed youth strolled into our city a little after dark and cautiously searched around for some open livery stable, whose inviting loft might afford him rest and shelter for the night. Gold or silver he had none. Poor in purse but rich in possibilities the youth first entered the employ of Marshall Smith as a journeyman baker, where he labored for over three years. Well, this was Julius Rasmussen. About seven years ago he started in business in our city opening up a general grocery store. Mr. Rasmussen now has a capital of $12,000 invested in his business. He occupies a large salesroom 20x80, with cellar, besides a ware house 20x50. His sales during the last year amounted to $30,000, the same being an increase of from 15 to 20 per cent more than the previous year. Young men, go ye and do likewise.
F. SCHECK, CIGAR FACTORY.
Few have given evidence of shrewder business capacity than Mr. Scheck. This gentleman commenced the manufacture of cigars in our city in 1878, on a capacity of less than $300. By early rising, constant working and honest treatment of his customers Mr. Scheck's little $250 stock in a 12x14 room has grown into a $4,000 mass of goods, occupying a store about 25x60 feet. The establishment has a working capacity of 2,500 to 3000 cigars per day, and employs 8 hands, whose wages range from 14 to $22 per week. Mr. Scheck finds ready sale for his goods, and at present ships in whole sale lots, to over twenty-five different points throughout the state. We predict a bright business future for Mr. Scheck in Columbus.M.K. Turner, newspaper and sheep to be continued next week.
The Columbus Democrat, October 27, 1883
Columbus Enterprise.
FRIEDHOF & CO. DRY GOODS.
Theodore Friedhof, the senior member of this firm entered business life in our town five years ago as clerk and salesman in one of our dry goods stores. About four years ago he established the business which he has built up to its present proportions. The house carries a stock of $50,000 and the sales during the last year amounted to $75,000 which is 100 per cent. more than the amount sold during the first year of the business. Five clerks and salesmen are employed in this establishment. Mr. Friedhof's business partner resides and carries on like business in New York city. The thrift and prosperity which attended Mr. Friedhof's labors since his advent to our city is one of the best advertisements Columbus could receive.
C.D. & G.W. CLOTHER, HOTEL
The name of the Clother House is familiar wherever the English language is spoken in this portion of the west. The Clother House was erected in 1869 by its present proprietors. At first it was of very limited proportions just enough to meet the moderate demands of those early days, but it improved with the times and now represents an invested capital of about $25,000. Its average patronage is about 60 guests per day, with a capacity for accommodating 75. Fifteen employees are on the payroll of this hotel and the business of the past year has been fully one hundred per cent. better than that of the year preceding and five hundred per cent. more than any of the earlier years of its existence.
ISRAEL GLUCK.
Mr. Gluck first opened out in business in Columbus nine years ago with a very meager capital to work on. What he lacked in means he supplied in energy and application to business. His handsome brick store now contains a stock of $25,000 and his sales during the last year aggregated $40,000. He reports the business of the current year as being twenty per cent. better than the year before. Mr. Gluck observes a demand for a better quality of goods from year to year as the community grows in wealth. The cheap and coarse grades that met with ready sales some years ago would now lie unpurchased on the shelves. In addition to all his other lucre this gentleman owns 1,400 acres of choice land in the vicinity of Columbus. Who would not do business in Columbus?
The Columbus Democrat, November 3, 1883
Columbus Enterprise. J.B. DELSMAN, DRY GOODS AND GROCERIES.
In 1874 Mr. Delsman entered the employ of J.C. Morrissey, in this city as salesman. In 1875 he opened a small store stocked with $300. worth of groceries which amount represented the sum total of Mr. Delsman's worldly wealth. He now has a capital of $11,000 invested in his business, besides owning residence property worth $25,000. His sales for the last year footed up $35,000. He reports business for the last year 40 per cent. better than during the preceding year.
It is men like Mr. Delsman that have built up the West.
The Columbus Democrat, November 17, 1883
Columbus Enterprises. CAPT. D.D. WADSWORTH, PROPRIETOR LINDELL HOTEL.
Many of our older residents may call to mind the fire in June, 1874, that destroyed about all the worldly means of Capt. Wadsworth. The same business energy and pluck that built a new Chicago out of the ashes of the old animated the captain, and instead of grieving and despairing over his misfortune, he went to work with a will, and to-day his large hotel averages fifty guests, with capacity for accommodating seventy-five. This establishment represents a capital of over $10,000, and in the last six months the business has been 100 per cent more than in the preceding half year. Eight employees are on the pay roll of the house. The prospects are that within a short time this hostelrie will be enlarged to double its present capacity, for the captain is one of those men who keeps fully abreast with the increasing prosperity of the town and country.
DR. C.B. STILLMAN, DRUG STORE.
When Dr. Stillman landed in Columbus, 26 years ago, he was no Jay Gould; neither was he a Vanderbilt. The Dr. engaged in the drug business in 1866, and has conducted the same in our city since that time. About $8,000 capital is employed, and the annual sales are over $12,000. The Doctor's business during the last year exceeds that of the year before by from 15 to 20 per cent. Besides his business establishment, the Doctor is the peaceful possessor of over $6,000 worth of city property. The Dr. in time has healed a great many and is well heeled himself.
POHL & WERMUTH, HARDWARE AND FARMING IMPLEMENTS.
This firm has been in existance about a year and works on a capital of about $12,000, and have made sales to the amount of $40,000. The firm purposes erecting a large warehouse for storing hardware and agricultural machinery to accommodate their rapidly increasing trade. The business of this firm is not confined to Platte county, for they receive a large patronage from adjoining counties. We might add that when the gentlemen who compose this firm first came to Columbus their means was very moderate, but industry and application to business has ever insured success in our community, and the firm of Pohl & Wermuth is no exception to the rule.
JOHN HEITKEMPER, GROCERIES, GLASSWARE, CROCKERY, ETC.
Mr. Heitkemper has been in busines nearly two years. Like many prudent business men, he began on a small capital, amounting to less than $1,700. His trade during the last year footed up over $16,000. He reports his business of last year 35 per cent more than that of the preceding year.
C.D. BARLOW, HARDWARE.
Mr. Barlow came to our city about one year ago an entire stranger and immediately entered into business. His sales have amounted ot $23,000 which is a good showing on a capital stock of $5,000. As an evidence of the healthy nature of Columbus business, it may be remarked that the books of Mr. Barlow show only $106.17 outstanding on this vast amount of sales and only $5 of this amount is uncollectable.
The Columbus Democrat, December 1, 1883Columbus Enterprise. GREISEN BROS. BOOTS & SHOES.
Jacob Greisen, the head of this firm, came to Columbus in 1872 and worked at his trade as journeyman for over a year, when he started in business on a capital of $100. The firm now employ about $9,000 in business, and the sale amounted to $16,000 last year, being one quarter more than the year before. Four men are employed in this establishment.
GEORGE LEHMAN, GRAND PACIFIC HOTEL.
Mr. Lehman has been five years the proprietor of the above hotel in which he has invested a capital of about $15,000. This house has capacity for accommodating eighty guests. Twelve servants are employed in the establishment. The receipts of the business for the last year amounted to the snug sum of $20,000, while the receipts for the year before were only about $10,000. Mr. Lehman informs us that he expects by next spring to erect an addition to his hotel 26x60 ft. and three stories high, to be built of brick. When this proposed structure is completed the Grand Pacific will be one of the most commodious hotels in the state west of Omaha.
Humphrey Booming.
EDS. DEM. During the present year there has been erected, and added to, 27 buildings in the village of Humphrey, the aggregate cost of which is over $16,000; making an increase of 200 per cent over last. year. We have now a village of over 400 inhabitants, situated on a branch of the U.P., near the northern line of Platte county. It is surrounded by the best of farming and stock grazing lands in the state.
Of our business men we may say, as a whole, they cannot be beat anywhere for energy, frugality and enterprise; we will notice a few of them and their undertakings.
GENERAL MERCHANDISE.
Mr. Wm. Eimers, formerly of Columbus, Neb., has located here. He not only brought with him ample means, but energy, frugality and honesty.
OTTIS, MURPHY & CO. DEALERS IN GENERAL MERCHANDISE.
This firm is constituted of enterprising young men. Their large store-rrom here is 28x60 and two stories high; they also do a general banking business.
GITZEN & ESCHELBACHER. DEALERS IN HARDWARE.
They erected the building which they now occupy, early last spring. They are men of enterprise, industry and frugality. Mr. Gitzen is a tinner by trade, and they have succeeded in building up a large trade.
The Columbus Democrat, January 5, 1884
HUMPHREY ITEMS
The old year has passed quietly away and with it the pleasant weather. A happy new year to the Democrat. There are much of the past for us to review and endeaver to better in the present year. We look back over the records of our little hamlet we see much to be proud of. We see that our merchants and business men are not only alive, but in earnest, as the following fact as to their business and the interest in our village, we will endeavor to give the readers of the Democrat a short sketch of the business done here and the amount of capital employed in the same.
The firm of Gitzen & Eschelbacker dealers in hardware &c. who started in business last April with a capital of $3,000, and by careful attention to their branch of business have succeeded in making sales to the amount of $6,000. They have been content with small profits and turning their goods often.
N. South, is also a dealer in hardware, farm implements, windmills &c. He met with a heavy loss by fire last May, which destroyed his buildings and nearly all his stock on hand. But being made as he is of the right kind of stuff and having some encouragement from wholesale dealers, he had a new building erected on the old stand, which he immediately filled with new goods. His capital stock after the fire was $3,000 on which he has been operating since. His sales have been about 10,000 since May last.
Thomas Ottis, dealer in lumber and building material, operating with a cpital of $8,000 has sold lumber to the amount of $66,000 during the past year.
Francis H. Baker, dealer in harnesses &c., commenced business on a capital of $300 about two years ago. His gross sales for past years has been of $3,000, and he is operating on a capital of about $2,000.
Sherwood & Lachnit, proprietors of the livery, sale and feed stable here, have enlarged their barn to double its former capacity, making it one of the best in the country. They have over $4,000 invested in their business and their income if about $100 per month.
Dr. A.W. Trout, dealer in drugs, paints and medicines, is operating on a cash capital of $3,000. His sales of the last year have been over $3,000.
Ottis, Murphy & Co., dealers in general merchandise, are operating on about $12,000. Their sales for the past year have been $36,000 in this branch of business.
Philip Hohl, proprietor of a blacksmith and wagon shop, is operating on a capital of $1,300. His business in shop and wind mills during past year amounted to $4,500.
C.D. Murphy, land and money broker, is operating on a capital of $10,000.
M.C. Bloedorn, proprietor of wagon, blacksmith and machine shops is operating on a capital of $5,000. His business transactions have been over $10,000 during the past year.
Wm. Eimers, dealer in general merchandise, and lumber. Has invested in business here $25,000, his sales for past year have been over $40,000.
Wm. Dusman, dealer in furniture, has a large store house 22 by 62, and is operating on a capital of $4,500. His business during the past year has exceeded $4,000.
Lemmer Brothers, who purchased the Norwood property, have opened a meat market and sale stable here, and are operating on $2,000 capital.
Humphrey House. The proprietor has enlarged his house to double its former capacity. Amount of capital invested $3,400. Number of guests registered during 1883 1,400.
Jacob Steffes, proprietor of the Granville House, livery and feed stable and saloon. Has over $4,000 invested in his business. He met with a heavy loss last May, which distroyed [sic] his hotel, which had just been completed. He has just newly fitted up his large three story new one where all the accommodations of a first class house can be found.
The Columbus Democrat, February 2, 1884
In another column our readers will observe an advertisement of the new firm of Lindsay & Trickle. Their store is on the corner of 11th and Olive Sts. Judge Lindsay, the senior member of the firm is well known to many of our citizens. Mr. Trickle appears to be a very pleasant gentleman.
The Columbus Democrat, February 9, 1884
Early & Niblock the new firm just started in a general brokers and insurance business, have their office on Olive Street north of First National Bank. We wish the new firm a degree of success commensurate with their energy and ability. The broker business is an old business with us, in fact the first we engaged in on starting out in active life and from that day to this no one has been "broker" than we have.Robert Uhlig has sold his residence on the corner of 11th street and Washington Av. to Fredrick John Henry Hockenberger.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, April 23, 1884
The post-office was moved Saturday evening to the west room of Marshall Smith's block on 13th street. The new room is certainly an improvement on anything Columbus has ever had for a post-office, whatever may be said against the centrality of the location.
The Columbus Democrat, January 28, 1885
The following is a list of the improvements made in our village [Platte Center] for the year 1884:
A large Catholic church.
Union church.
A. Henry -- lumber house and corn-crib.
J.E. North -- addition to elevator.
S.J. Neimolar -- store building
S.E. Phillips -- residence and store building.
Wm. Bloedorn -- residence.
David Carrig -- residence.
George Hopkins -- furniture building.
J.E. Tasker -- hog ranch.
Mrs. Finley -- residence.
Wm. Edwards -- residence.
Paul Sockinies -- residence.
John O'Brien -- residence.
Wm. Kern -- residence.
John Moffitt -- residence.
J.J. Macken -- residence.
Henry Denney -- residence.
With a fair prospect for a continuance in the good cause for 1885.
The Columbus Democrat, September 10, 1886
OUR FURNITURE MEN AND PHOTOGRAPHERS
The dealers in household furniture and kindred goods carry stocks of fine goods, selling them at prices to keep a good trade and prosper. There are four in this city, of whom we give more particular sketches below.
GEO. B. HARDELL.
Mr. Hardell located in this city in 1884, opening his present business in December, 1885. In this short time he has built up a good business, making many customers who recognize the value of his store as a place to trade. His place of business is the third door north of the Columbus State bank, where a full line of furniture, mattings, window curtains, pictures and frames, looking glasses, baby carriages and other goods can always be found. Mr. Hardell is perfectly at home in the business, and can turn his hand to any work connected with it, with satisfaction to his customers. Mr. Hardell believes in the use of printers' ink, and is rewarded therefor.
J. E. MUNGER.
This gentleman came to this city in 1882, and engaged in the furniture business. He has had a good trade from the state, doing his share of the business of the place. His stock of furniture, coffins and kindred goods is complete. Mr. Munger is a practical embalmer, having made the business a study, has a hearse in connection with his stock of undertaking goods, and his services in this line are in general demand. His store is on Eleventh street, where he is always ready to attend the wants of his numerous customers.
HENRY GASS.
This gentleman came to Columbus in 1870, and engaged in the furniture business. His location is on East Eleventh street, where he has three rooms 22x70, well filled with furniture. He has also a shop 22x44, where he manufactures a large portion of the goods he handles, such [as] tables, beds, mattresses, lounges, etc. He has all the business he can handle without enlarging his working force, and is well satisfied.
SAMUEL GASS.
This popular furniture dealer has been engaged in the business here for several years. His store is on Eleventh street, where he also has a shop for the manufacture of many of the goods he sells in the store. Repairing and upholstering of old furniture is done here in the best possible style and manner. Mr. Gass has a good trade.
J. S. MCALLISTER.
The Dr. came to Columbus and opened up his business as photographer in 1871, and has held his own for the fifteen years since passed. He furnishes all kind of work appertaining to the business, from the smallest miniature to the largest picture, and does it in style. He has lately secured the services of Mr. H. Tripp, a first-class photographer, and defies the state to produce better work than he is turning out.
H. R. LUNDY.
Mr. Lundy has been engaged in photography in this city for the past seven years. In his gallery on Eleventh street can be seen samples of his work which are convincing as to his skill. He produces all kinds of work in his line, and is at present engaged on some crayon work which is excellent, to say the least. A visit to his gallery will reward the searcher for a person who can "catch the shadow ere the substance faces," and do it in style.
O. A. STEARNS.
This gentleman came to Columbus ten years ago, and engaged in the photograph business, being employed with Dr. McAllister for some time. Later he opened a gallery, and can now be found on Twelfth street, where he produces all work in the line of photographs. He makes no pretensions as to the fancy attachments of the profession, but claims to finish as good photographs as anyone.
The Columbus Democrat, February 4, 1887
COLUMBUS!
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Her Growth in 1886.
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$127,575.00
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Is the Amount Invested by Those Who Have
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FAITH IN HER FUTURE
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The Record Surpassed Past Years.
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1887 Already Promises to Outdo 1886.
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THE FIGURES.
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The following is a list of building improvements made in Columbus during the year 1886. It shows that the citizens of Columbus are awakening to the fact there is a bright future in store for our city, and every dollar spent in improvements is safely invested:Waterworks, put in by a home firm .........$25,000 Electric Light Plant, Schroeder Bros ...... 5,000 Union Pacific Railway Co, depot, ice house, track improvements, etc ......... 25,000 St. Francis Academy, addition ............. 5,000 St. Mary's Hospital, " ............. 10,000 J. B. Delsman, brick block ................ 6,500 Jaeggi & Schupbach, boiler house and additions to Elevator Roller Mills ..... 5,500 R. H. Henry, brick block .................. 5,500 R. H. Henry, two frame stores ............. 1,000 Grand Pacific Hotel, improvements ......... 1,000 Clother House, improvements ............... 500 First National Bank, vault, etc ........... 3,500 Methodist Episcopal Church ................ 3,000 Third Ward Schoolhouse, improvements ...... 1,650 Weaver & Held, com. house ................. 600 A. Berger, broom factory .................. 800 M.K. Turner & Co., repairs to store b'dg .. 800 M. Engle store building ................... 500 J.W. Early, repairs to store building ..... 100 H. Oehlrich, " " .............. 250 C.B. Stillman, " " .............. 100 W.M. Walker, " " .............. 175 Geo Wanger, ice house ..................... 300 C.H. Young, " ..................... 200 Wm. Shroeder, " ..................... 250 Paul Hoppen, " ..................... 250 O.A. Stearns, store building .............. 500 Mrs. Winterbotham, boarding house ......... 2,000 Packing House, improvements ............... 300 Lepold Jaeggi, residence .................. 4,000 Wm. Bucher, " .................. 3,500 V.A. Macken, " .................. 1,000 C.J. Garlow, " .................. 1,000 L. Weaver, " .................. 700 P.J. Schmitz, addition to residence ....... 1,000 John Stauffer, " " ....... 1,000 J.S. Murdock & Co., three cottages ........ 2,800 C. Dietrich, tenements .................... 800 G.G. Bowman, addition to residence ........ 750 Paul Hoppen, cottage ...................... 600 S.G. North, imp. dwelling ................. 250 John Huber, addition to dwelling .......... 100 J. Pearsall, " " .......... 150 F. Bower, dwelling ........................ 250 J.M. Macfarland, addition to residence .... 150 W.N. Hensley, " " .... 250 S.W. Roether, " " .... 100 Mrs. Gregorious, residence ................ 700 J.H. Galley, addition to residence ........ 350 G.W. Hults, repairs " ........ 100 W.A. McAllister, addition " ........ 200 W.A. McAllister, barn ..................... 100 John Graf, addition to residence .......... 200 L.A. Clark, " " .......... 100 Gus Krause, barn .......................... 350 H.P. Coolidge, addition to barn ........... 100 C.C. Miller's stock yards and many minor improvements .......................... 1,700 Total................................ $127,575NEW FIRMS & BUSINESS CHANGES.
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Banks and Brokers.
The Columbus Savings Bank, Loan and Trust Co., with a capital of $100,000.
McKinley & Carnahan, Mortgage Brokers, with abundant capital and doing an extensive business over the state.______________
Real Estate and Insurance.
Fuller & Marty, successors to S.C. Smith.
P.W. Henrich, general real estate, laon and insurance.
Newman & Waldron, successors to Routson & Waldron.______________
Groceries.
Henry Ragatz & Co., successors to From & Wake.
Hickok, Halm & Co., successors to Julius Rasmussen.
Williams & Shuman, successors to Wadsworth & Co.
Murdock & Covert, successors to Wm. Lamb.______________
Hardware and Implements.
Boettcher & Kersenbrock, successors to Wermuth & Boettcher.
Shaffroth & Plath, successors to Leuers & Shaffroth.
Krause Bros., successors to Krause, Lubker & Welch.______________
Druggists.
C.E. Pollock & Co., successors to Ed. F. Chinn & Co.
Dowty & Becher (formerly Dowty & Hetikemper), new drug store.______________
Manufacturers and Wholesalers of Cigars.
S.W. Roether, successor to Roether & Siepp.
J.S. Albright, successor to R. Uhlig.______________
Meat Market.
C.E. Morse.______________
Boarding House.
Mrs. Winterbotham.______________
Boots and Shoes.
T. Baumgart.______________
Newspapers.
D. Frank Davis, successor to J.G. Higgins as publisher of The Democrat.______________
M Ds.
Dr. J. Chas. Willy, now county physician.______________
Attorneys.
J.M. Gondring, now county attorney.
Bayard Fuller.PROJECTED BUILDING FOR 1887.
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Many costly and important improvements are promised for this year. Among these are a large two-story brick block and warehouse, to be built by Boettcher & Kersenbrock. Wm. Ryan will build a fine two-story brick block. W.T. Rickly & Bro. are making arrangements to erect a two-story brick block on Olive street. Wm. Schroeder will build a two-story brick on 12th street. McAllister Bros. will probably build a two-story brick on 11th street. J.H. Kersenbrock already has brick bought for a handsome residence. The two-story wing of the Grand Pacific will be built up to a third story with the balance. The Clother House will in all probability be made into a three-story building. Geo. Lehman contemplates putting in a steam laundry. One or two new railroads are not an impossibility. The Union Pacific has already nearly finished a large coal shute and will put in stock yards and perhaps machine shops. A new hotel is also promised. One or two manufacturing establishments are talked quite strongly of, and we feel confident that the largest part of these plans are already assured. The buildings, with hardly an exception, will be built, and of course many more. Let it boom.
The Columbus Democrat, March 11, 1887
AS OTHER SEE US
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COLUMBUS.
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NEBRASKA'S LITTLE FAVORITE.
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A Town That is Rapidly Coming to the Front--Lighted With Electricity--Where It Excels.
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[Special Correspondence of the Omaha Republican:]
COLUMBUS, NEB., March 2.--This is a city of about 4,000 inhabitants, who are full of vim and energy that always denotes the people of a growing and progressive place. That Columbus is growing very rapidly no one will deny after reading the facts in this letter. For a long time the town did not seem to prosper any more than hundreds of others in the state, but in the past two years there has come an awakening that is beginning to make itself felt. Wonderful improvements have taken place in that time. The year that has just passed has been one of marvelous progress. The first improvement was the water works, with its tower reaching into the sky 115 feet. The average Columbian is proud of the water works, as it is purely a home institution, being constructed by home mechanics and engineers. Up to the present time it has cost $22,500. The engines pump 39,972 gallons of water every hour. Just 14,426 feet of six-inch mains are laid in the principal business streets, Eight fire plugs are at different corner ready to furnish water at a good pressure to put out any fire that may start. As soon as the frost leaves the ground additional mains will be laid and connection with private houses will be made.
Columbus also has two mills, the pride of the town, one owned by Jaeggi & Schupbach, with an investment of $60,000. The capacity is 300 barrels every twenty-four hours. These gentlemen have recently shipped a consignment of their flour to Glasgow and Liverpool, and also another to Switzerland. The other mill is known by the name of the Columbus Milling company, and employes the same amount of capital and puts out the same number of barrels of flour per twenty-four hours as the above.
The Union Pacific Railroad company is making a great many improvements, a new stone depot being nearly finished, and also a large coal chute. Other improvements contemplated are a large brick hotel, an immense feeding yard for stock in transit, and repair shop and round house as soon as the road is finished from Fullerton to St. Paul.
While Columbus has no gas to light the streets, she has what is better--the electric light, which sheds its bright rays every night, dispersing the gloom so that it is not as dark in any of the streets of this town as in some your corresondent knows of in Omaha.
Two good hotels at present constitute about the only place where the traveler will find the rest sought after.
Three elevator firms and two feeding companies buy the grain grown in this vicinity.
Three brick school houses, with 12 teachers, and more than half a dozen churches prove that the educational and religious training is not neglected. Two Catholic institutions, the St. Joseph hospital and the St. Francis academy, under the control of the Jesuit fathers, all go to prove that Columbus is quite a metropolis.
Three banks, one National, are doing a good business. Two newspapers disseminate the news to the people, both of them being wide-a-wake and fully alive to the interests of the town. The Journal is Republican, M.K. Turner, proprietor and editor; the other, the Democrat, as its name implies, is Democratic, and is owned and edited in a very able manner by D. Frank Davis.
Being fully alive to the advantages of having some business men continually looking after the interests of the town, Columbus has a Board of Trade composed of the following gentlemen: J.N. Taylor, president; George Lehman, vice president; O.T. Roen, treasurer; and D. Frank Davis, secretary. There is a board of directors and an executive committee, which are always on the qui vive to get people to locate in town.
Last year's improvements amounted in the aggregate to the neat sum of $140,000, but that the above will be more than doubled this year is already assured from the large number of brick blocks and other improvements in contemplation that will surely be a fact before next fall.
The Columbus Journal, January 25, 1888
EDITOR JOURNAL:--During the past year the following improvements have been made in our little city. While they might have been more numerous and also more costly, they are yet sufficient in both particulars to show that considerable was done during the year, more, indeed, than many suppose, who have not undertaken to make a list:F.W. Riemer, residence.
Samuel Rickly, residence.
Mr. Clark, residence.
John Kump, residence.
Mr. Miller, residence.
Mrs. Kate Vogel, residence improved.
O.E. Wells, vestibule to residence.
J.F. Schaffroth, vestibule to residence.
Mr. Gittiner, addition to residence.
Charles Segelke, brick house 28x30, two stories.
Mrs. Denneen, residence.
Mr. Bael, carriage house.
Mr. Klug, residence.
Henry Lubker, addition to residence.
Rev. A.W. Snider, residence.
Mr. Brake, residence.
Mr. Bouton, addition to residence.
Mrs. Sheehan, residence.
Dr. C.D. Evans, residence.
Walgraf Bros., large barn.
Wm. Ryan, brick store, 25x75, two stories.
J.B. Belsman, second story to his large, brick business house, finished.
Chapel of Latter Day Saints, enlarged and improved.
I. Gluck, house at residence.
Two story brick addition to First National Bank building.
J.C. Echols, residence.
Dr. F.J. Schug, barn.
S.S. McAllister, addition to residence.
Well-house at water works.
Abts & Sons, ice house.
Greisen Bros' store, improved.
Mr. Watkins, addition to residence.
L. Gerrard, three cottages.
Mr. Curtis, residence.
Lake and Park Association, pump house and ice house, 40x76x22 ft. Against all sneers and a public as cold as ice, this company is now packing. They have fought their way to a perceptible success.
Many other improvements have been made in that part of our city known, locally, as "Polish America," but I am not suitably acquainted with parties to report.
J.D. BREWER.
The Columbus Democrat, April 20, 1888
PLATTE CENTER. Pat Hays' new residence is nearing completion.
The retiring board of village trustees of Platte Center passed an ordinance imposing an occupation tax of $200 per year on saloons. It is understood that the new board which will conduct the affairs of the village for the ensuing year, commencing May 1st, are opposed to the tax, and the saloons will close for a few days when their licenses expire, pending its action, expecting the ordinance to be repealed. The saloon men say they will not take out licenses at all if the occupation tax is imposed on them.
Geo. Weld commenced operations with his steam planing mill and carriage and wagon manufacturing outfit last week. This is the Center's first steam factory. Mr. Weld will undoubtedly find that he has located in a good field for business and The Democrat wishes him abundant success.
David Carrig commenced the erection of another fine large store building, Monday.
A. Henry has the material on the way for the erection of another store building.
There are several parties talking about erecting brick buildings the coming summer.
Geo. N. Derry, the painter, has left here and located in Columbus.
The business of Platte Center comprises: One stationery store, two general stores, two drug stores, two dry goods and clothing stores, three saloons, two grocery stores, two nespapers, one barber shop, one meat market, one real estate and insurance office, two hardware stores, two blacksmith and wagon maker shops, one furniture store, one bank, two agricultural implement dealers, four hotels and boarding houses, two livery stables, two lumber yards, two grain firms, one harness shop, one live stock firm, one millinery store, one boot and shoe shop, one flour exchange depot, two paint shops, one brick yard, one contracting brick-layer and one practicing physician, making in all, forty-seven firms or business houses.
One of the best enterprises in the town is the Platte Center brick yard, of which D.C. Kavanaugh is the proprietor. Nine men are employed and the capacity of the yard at present is 8,000 brick per day. A brick machine will be put in soon having a capacity of 20,000 per day. The dry sheds cover an area of 28x58 feet and the kiln sheds are 40x128 feet. At no place in the state can be found better clay for making brick than at this point, and at no yard do they turn out better brick. A contract for 200,000 has already been made with Mr. Kavanaugh, the order to be filled this summer. Arrangements are being made with the railway company to run a side-track into the yard, and after its completion orders for brick from other points will receive prompt attention. The wages of the employees in the yard amount to over $100 per week, more than is paid out by any other establishment or firm in the place. Such enterprises as this which gives employment to a number of people are the things which build up a town. The first kiln will be burned and ready for delivery about the middle of May.
The Columbus Democrat, August 24, 1888
All of the business houses in Lindsay are being moved one block east. This is done, because the old location is on a hillside and by moving, the business street of the town will be located on level ground, where it should have been located when the town was first laid out and started.
The Columbus Democrat, December 28, 1888
1888--IMPROVEMENTS.--1888
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How We Grow--The Best City in the Platte Valley--$120,000 in Buildings Last Year..
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READ AND REFLECT.Notwithstanding 1888 has been an off year for improvement all over the state Columbus can boast of having done a great deal in that line. The nature of the improvements are of a nature to indicate that our citizens have faith in the future of good old Columbus, and are willing to put their money where it will do the most good.
A hasty glance at the work done in the past year reveals the following:While the above list does not include all that has been done in the building line, it enumerates the most important of the work, and gives enough of it to prove conclusively that Columbus is a city of sure, substantial and steady growth.Columbus Improvement Co., hotel .............. $25,000 Columbus Motor Railroad Co., street railway .. 6,000 Commercial Bank, bank building ............... 10,000 Columbus city and township, Loup bridge ...... 40,000 William Schroeder, business building ......... 2,500 E.D. Fitzpatrick, hall ....................... 1,000 Jaeggie & Schupbach, warehouses .............. 1,500 Platte County, addition to court house ....... 1,500 Platte County, remodeling court house ........ 1,500 Grand Pacific Hotel, addition ................ 1,000 Anton Scott, residence ....................... 1,000 Lutheran church, parsonage and barn .......... 1,200 German Reform Church, parsonage and barn ..... 1,500 S. E. Marty, dwelling ........................ 1,500 Chas. Siegenthaler, dwelling ................. 1,000 Martin Heins, dwelling ....................... 500 Mrs. Plagemann, dwelling ..................... 600 F. H. Rusche, dwelling ....................... 3,500 M. Brugger, dwelling ......................... 1,500 A. Alexander, dwelling ....................... 500 R. C. Boyd, dwelling ......................... 600 _am Rickly, dwelling ......................... 800 T. Wolf, dwelling ............................ 800 Charles Williams, dwelling ................... 500 Mrs. Sheehan, dwelling ....................... 800 W. T. Rickley, addition to dwelling .......... 600 J. M. Macfarland, addition to dwelling ....... 400 James E. North, addition to dwelling ......... 400 Mrs. A. Ryan, addition to dwelling ........... 150 __ W. Phillips, addition to dwelling ......... 250 _____ Green, addition to dwelling ............ 600 _arl Kramer, remodeling dwelling ............. 250 I. Sibbernson, remodeling dwelling ........... 350 Presbyterian Church, remodeling parsonage .... 400 H. ___ rich, improving dwelling .............. 250 Other small dwellings, additions, etc., not enumerated ........................... 7,500 Boettcher & Kersenbrock, warehouse ........... 250 Abts & Calto, warehouse ...................... 200 J. J. Sullivan, warehouse .................... 200 Lambert Geier, warehouse ..................... 100 Columbus Milling Co., improving elevator ..... 300 _. H. Calley, carriage house, etc. ........... 300 _. P. Becker, repairs to brick block ......... 500 St. Mary's Hospital, barn, etc. .............. 1,000 A. Henry, office ............................. 400 Total......................$120,700
Our business men are taking fresh courage, and our acquisitions are good.
NEXT YEAR. Although not endowed with a spirit of prophecy we can tell from what we see and hear that much building will be done. Two good brick blocks are certain to go up near the Commercial Bank. A new opera house is a possibility. A canning factory is a probability. Boettcher & Kersenbrock may erect a large brick block for their hardware business. The president of the Commercial Bank contemplates building a large, handsome residence. Several other people ought to.
A $10,000 extension of our water works system will be made, as the contract has already been let. The Platte river will be bridged in the spring and our local trade icnreased much thereby. Another school house is demanded, and we hope to see it built ere long.
The street railway will be extended.--------------- HUMPHREY.
A Town Only Nine Years Old Which Can Boast Eight Hundred Population and Two Railroads.
Humphrey is surrounded with rich and _____ valleys, among which are Shell Creek, Union Creek, Meridian Creek, Pleasant Valley and others, and the broad expanse of table lands of this and Madison counties. These lands are not surpassed anywhere for their productiveness, and is it not reason enough that Humphrey should be one of the most thriving and progressive towns in the North Platte country?
The Independent of July 11, 884, contained the following interesting bit of history concerning the settlement of the territory tributary to that place: "To the west and north west, directly tributary to this city, lies one of the finest valleys that ever pleased the vision of man. This valley, Shell Creek, owing to the superior inducements it offers to the husbandman, received the first settlement in this locality. Some time in the year of 1868 or '69 a man by the name of John Smoker and a small colony of Norwegians settled at or near what is now known as Newmans Grove in Madison county, about one half mile from the county line. John Walker located about nine miles farther down the valley and about en miles from Humphrey, at, or near where the town of Lindsay now is, in May 1870, and was shortly followed by Patrick Ducey, William Connelly, John Logan and others. Lindsay postoffice was established in 1877, the postoffice and town taking its name from a Canadian town of the same name. In 1870 and '71 other settlements were rapidly being made in the northwestern part of the county and Tracy valley became an objective point for locations, and Mr. Loman Porter, Walter Mead, Byron Dayton, C. O. Moore, the Anderson brothers, and others, began to turn the sod, build houses and barns, and make such other improvements as their means at command would furnish, and in two or three years not an available quarter of land was vacant in that locality."HUMPHREY
And her beginning dates back to the building of the Norfolk branch of the Union Pacific railroad in 1879, and the first agent Mr. James Sherlock took in for his monthly receipts sixty-five cents.
In the spring of 1880 Mr. William Eimers, one of Humphrey's most enterprising busines men of to-day, established a lumber yard, built a warehouse and began buying grain. The same year he purchased a lot band built the first private building in the town. Thomas Ottis laid out his first addition to Humphrey in 1881. Wendel Eschelbacher came with the second building which he used as a saloon. George Norwood came with the third building and a stock of drugs. Mr. Norwood was the first postmaster in Humphrey. Herman Tieskotter's hotel was the next building. T. J. Sherwood next came with a stock of groceries. William Ripp built the second grain warehouse in the city. Mr. Ripp is still in the business in Humphrey, buying grain for Himebaugh & Merriam.
Mr. Ottis' second addition to Humphrey surveyed and platted in June, 1883, and the third addition in February, 1885.
T. D. Robinson laid out his first addition to Humphrey in May, 1883.
In 1886 the Fremont, Elkhorn & Missouri Valley railroad built its Albion branch through the town, and thereby giving the town superior shipping facilities. This road has just completed a neat depot.
The revenue (from freight received and shipped) of the Union Pacific at Humphrey for the past year was in the neighborhood of $75,000.
Humphrey to-day can boast three general merchandise stores, two drug stores, one beer depository, four saloons, two hardware stores, three implement dealers, two grocery stores, two blacksmith shops, two butcher shops, one livery barn, two feed stables, two hotels, one restaurant and bakery, one confectionery store, one jeweler, one milliner, two dress-makers, two banks, two barber shops, two harness dealers, one cigar manufacturer, six carpenters, (At one time during the past fall at least seventy-five out side carpenters, painters, plasters, mason and helpers were at work in Humphrey.) one furniture store, two lumber yards, two coal dealers, two stock buyers, three insurance and real estate agents, and two good newspapers.
The Catholic church has as fine a school building as there is in Platte county, and a large attendance at their school.
During the past year about $75,000 has been invested in business and residence property in this humping city. The buildings have been of the most substantial class. The following is a complete list of the improvements for the past year--with the exception of a few small houses, the owners of which we could not find.
At the head of the list of improvements can be found the elevator and mill of the merchant prince of Humphrey, William Eimers. The elevator was built by Seely, Sons & Co., cost about $15,000, and is most undoubtedly the finest elevator in the state outside of possibly one or two points. The elevator is run by a twenty-five horse power Atlas engine and has a capacity of shelling, cleaning and loading a car of five hundred bushels of corn in an hour besides handling hundreds of bushels of other grain at the same time. Mr. Eimers has also a corn and ___ mill and flour exchange in connection with the elevator, which has in the short time he has had it in operation proven a great blessing to the farmers of that section. Mr. Eimers gives to the farmer the same amount of flour to the bushel as the mill and saves him the annoyance of having to wait for it to be ground. The flour and meal he furnishes is of the best brands and no person can __ __plain because Humphrey has ___ ill. Eimers' flour exchange is ______ side a mill to save the family time, and time is money. The representative of The Democrat was shown through the large mercantile establishment of Mr. Eimers and we can truthfully say it is one of the best stocked stores in Platte or Madison counties, and for an assortment is not to be excelled. He has a large double store room which is filled from floor to ceiling with his stock of groceries and dry goods. On the second floor is to be found as fine a line of clothing and gent's furnishing goods as man could wish. The residents of the territory tribuary to Humphrey can save money in no better way than to buy their dry goods, groceries, clothing and gent's furnishings of Mr. Eimers as he deals in nothing but the best, and has as good a supply to select from as man or woman look for. The farmer need no longer haul his grain miles to mill, as he can get the best grades and just as much flour, wheat, buckwheat or graham, corn meal, bran or feed to the bushel as though he did. Mr. Eimers has shown by his push and energy just what a man can do for a town, and to him Humphrey owes a great deal for her present prosperity and the bright future before her.
Another elevator was also built this fall by Himebaugh & Merriam, who are represented in this city by Mr. William Ripp. It is also of the Seely Sons & Co. make and cost in the neighborhood of $7,000. It is said this company will build another elevator in the spring on the right-of-way of the "Elkhorn" railroad in the eastern portion of the town.
The Fremont, Elkhorn & Missouri Valley railroad have built a very neat and roomy combination depot, Fischer Brothers a two story brick business block, Phil. Hohl, brick opera house, Jacob Steffes has built a large addition to the Granville house, Breuning & Anselime, a frame building for their saloon, Phil. Hohl, frame building for the use of Fred Maas as a tailor shop, Dave Hale, office building near the "Elkhorn" depot, Iler & Storts of Omaha, beer depot, Martin Iliohan brick business house, H.O. Rodehorst, frame office building, William Duesman made an addition to his furniture store. Henry Kersch also improved his property by an addition.
The following persons have built residences during the past year: Louis Schroeder, Mike Fischer, Henry Breunig, Mrs. Katie Leman, Rastus Leach, Anton Wichel and T.K. Otti.
John Walker, Dave Hale, Jacob Fischer, G.W. Clark, Mart. Postle and J.B. Schoemer, built additions to their residence property.
The Catholic congregation have built an addition to their school building costing about $4,000.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Chris. Schoemig is proprietor of one of the best saloons in Platte ocunty, and those needing anything in his line should not fail to give him a call.
At the restaurant of Martim Iliohan can always be found fresh oysters in any style in season, confectionery of all kinds, and the products of his bakery which are first-class.
Humphrey people believe in patronizing home institutions, as is shown by the fact that the cigar factory of Henry Kersch is rushed with work. Henry turns out first-class goods and uses the best of stock, therefore deserving success.
J.W. Hansen has a finely stocked jewelry store, and his line of watches, clocks, jewelry, silverware and spectacles, is new and first-class and sold at the lowest prices. He is a first-class workman and his repairing always gives satisfaction.
EXTRA COPIES.
Of this week's Democrat can be had in Humphrey of Postmaster Dickenson at five cents per copy. Parties wishing to subscribe for The Democrat, or any of the publications with which it clubs, will please leave their money with him. He is authorized to take subscriptions at the following rates:The Democrat per annum - - - - - - - - $1.00 The Democrat and Chicago Times - - - - 1.50 The Democrat and Omaha Herald - - - - - 1.50 The Democrat and Omaha Bee, with pre. - 2.65 The Democrat and Bee, without prem. - - 2.00----------------- PLATTE CENTER
A Busy Town of Six Hundred Population--One of the Best Market in this Part of the State.
When the Union Pacific built its depot on the site now occupied by Platte Center in 1879 it plainly spoke that in the course of time there should spring a city of no small importance, as the country around was hard to surpass as agricultural land. The founders of Platte Center have nothing to feel ashamed of as to-day she stands a monument to their push and enterprise. Platte center is one of the best towns on the Norfolk branch.
HER FIRST MEN. The first building in Platte Center was built by George Scheidel, and used as a hotel and saloon in 1879. The next arrival was that of T. Ryan, who built the second building and stocked the first grocery store in that place. He was soon followed by James E. North and Himebaugh & Merriam with grainaries. The first general merchandise store was that of L.J. Niemoeller, followed by A. Henry with a lumber yard. The first drug store was that of a Mr. Goodman in the building now occupied by the Platte Co. Bank. M. Clother followed the same year with the Clother house. The above were the first business houses in Platte Center, all of which were established in the first year of her history.
In 1880 William Bloedorn came with a blacksmith shop, and stock of farming implements.
Since that day Platte Center has seen a steady growth that tells of a town being built on a sound foundation.
The business of the Union Pacific has grown from the sum of eighty-five cents for its first month to an average of $5,260 for the year 1888. Five hundred cars of grain and two hundred loads of stock left this station during the year 1888.
The town to-day boasts of about sixty-five business firms divided among the following: Three general merchandise stores, one jewelery store, two drug stores, three saloons, one restaurant, one notion store, two blacksmith shops, two wagon makers, one hardware store, two butcher shops, two banks, one barber, one furniture store, two harness shops, three hotels, one livery stable, two feed stables, three grain dealers, three stock buyers, two real estate and insurance agents, one planing mill, one feed mill, two lumber yards, one coal dealer, six carpenter shops, one brick-yard, one shoe-maker, one newspaper, (The Argus), two millinery stores, two dress-makers, one hall and an opera house.
In the way of building and improvements Platte Center is not behind the balance of her neighbors. About $45,000 was outlaid in that line during the past year. Following is as complete a list as could be obtained of the improvements: D.H. Carrig, three business houses, T. Brady, store building, A. Henry, five two story business houses, William Bloedorn, two story brick, costing about $6,000. One of the finest public school buildings in the North Platte country was built. The following persons built neat and substantial residences: Mrs. Lena Kettelson, E.C. Mitten, R.W. Hughes, William Kent, G.H. Smith, E.S. Close, John Schaffer, A. Henrich, Hilger Greisen, Pat Hays, L.R. Rossiter and John Spray. C.C. Carrig, Mrs. M.E. Finley, L.B. Harmon, J.A. Kehoe, S.E. Kern and D.V. Macken, made substantial additions to their residence property.NOTES. Albert Fields opened his hotel in 1881.
The Powell house was opened in 1886.
A union church building was erected in 1886.
L.J. Niemoller opened a jewelry store in 1884.
The city hall was built by Dr. Edwards in 1887.
Dr. Wm. Edwards came with a stock of drugs in 1884.
Himebaugh & Merriam built an elevator building in 1886.
In the year of our Lord 1886, The Argus began to grind.
William Bloedorn built his large implement warehouse in 1887.
In 1885 the Roman Catholics built their church and school buildings.
In 1883 Mich Hallen bought out Ryan, and the firm was known as Hallen & Byrne.
George N. Hopkins slid onto the stage of action in Platte Center with a harness shop in 1884.
A. Henry built the building now occupied by Lynch & Carrig as a general merchandise store in 1882. The building was first occupied by Mr. Henry with a general stock, afterward J.J. Macken opened a saloon in the building.------------------------ LINDSAY.
Lindsay is a thriving little town on the F.E. & M.V., situated about 11 miles west of Humphrey, in the magnificent Shell Creek valley. Business of all classes is well represented, and since the twon was moved off the hill, it presents a very nice appearance.
In the last year it has gone ahead at a rapid pace, the buildings of 1888 amounting in value to about $10,000. The most valuable of these are a bank erected by Edward A. Brodboll, store buildings, I. Gluck, J.P. Mathews, N.A. Fleischer & Co. and W.E. Acker and residences of Joe Ottis and John Eggers. During the year Lindsay has acquired a number of new business firms, among which are the following: W.E. Acker, implements, H.R. Woods, jeweler, H.G. Howell, jeweler, N.A. Fleischer & Co., general merchandise, J.H. Milslagle, hotel and E.A. Brodboll, banker.
Lindsay has two grain elevators, and is one of the liveliest little towns in Platte county.----------------- CRESTON.
The village of Creston, another F.E. & M.V. town 8 miles east of Humphrey, is a lively little village of about 200 inhabitants. Creston has one of the finest flouring mills in the country, and its full complement of business enterprises.
During the year 1888, the following buildings have been erected:
John Filter, residence, $500; Creston Hotel addition, $600; T.H. Thompson, hardware store, $800; O.P. Goodrich, general store, $700; John Wagner, furniture store, $700; P.H. Bender, residence, $800; Clark Hotel, $1,500; McCurdy & Crisman, meat market, $300; Theo. Wolf, saloon, $800; Koester & Meyer, store $800; Steiner Brothers, blacksmith shop, $400; Moore, meat market $200; E. Pilling, residence, $300; Wm. Knight, residence, $300.
Several new business firms have commenced operations there during the past year, among which are the following:
O.P. Goodrich, general merchandise; P.H. Bender, general merchandise; Koester & Meyer, general merchandise; McCurdy & Crisman, meat market; Kirkland & McElrea, meat market; John Wagner, furniture; C.H. McNeal, restaurant; D.I. Clark, Clark Hotel; D.B. Kockenderfer, Creston Hotel.
Creston lies in the center of as fine a country as the eye can wish to see, and is destined to always be a flourishing place.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, June 28, 1889
STILL ANOTHER.
______________J. P. ABTS WILL BUILD WITH BRICK.
______________The Building to be Large, Roomy, Handsome, Solid And Substantial--Work to Commence Soon.
So many new buildings have been built or are being builded in Columbus this season that no one is surprised anymore when some enterprising Columbus citizen commences to pile up brick for another.
J.P. Abts has commenced to pile up material on his lot on Thirteenth street for a new building. He has let the contract for its erection to James Salmon and will begin work in the course of two weeks.
The building is to have a frontage of twenty-two feet, depth of ninety feet, and will consist of two stories and a basement. The basement will be the full size of the building, seven feet high. The first floor will be fourteen feet in the clear, and be divided into a store room fifty-feet deep, dining room and kitchen each twenty feet deep. The upper story will have a hall forty feet long and the balance will be bed rooms. The front will be built of pressed brick with an ornamental brick front, plate glass and be built in first-class style. The cornice will also be of ornamental pressed brick. The building will be handsome and a desirable acquisition to the city. J.P. Abts will occupy it, his large and increasing business demanding larger quarters than he has at present.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, July 19, 1889
MAKING BUTTER. The Columbus creamery has been doing a large business lately in the manufacture of their famous butter. Week before last the creamery turned out an average of 1,185 pounds daily, and last week incrased the daily average to 1,224 pounds. The creamery is one of the most valuable manufacturing concerns in the county, and The Telegram is pleased to see it making so much of the golden butter.
______________The Columbus Creamery Turning Out Hundreds of Pounds of the Yellow Produce.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, August 30, 1889
A COLUMBUS INDUSTRY
______________WHICH MANUFACTURES FIRST CLASS WINDMILLS.
______________The Gilt Edge Manufacturing Company Coming to the Front--When Established, Capital Stock, Incorporators--A Description of the Company's Buildings--Kind of Material Used--Other Items of Interest Concerning the Factory.
A Telegram reporter visited the windmill factory last evening and through the courtesy of C.A. Woosley, manager of the Gilt Edge Manufacturing company, was shown through the different departments and learned many items concerning the factory which will be of general interest to the public.
The original incorporators of this important concern were C. Hinkley, W.H. Dean, C.A. Woosley and Fred Rood, the authorized capital stock being placed at $25,000, which may be increased to $50,000. About the middle of May, 1889, the company's buildings which are built of brick and numbering five, were completed and the machinery placed. The first mill was turned out about a week later and Manager Dean started out to establish agents and place his goods upon the market. He met with poor success at first, which was all perfrectly natural, and on July first sold out his interest to C.A. Woosley, who took the management and since that time has secured a large number of agents in all parts of the state, who are pushing the sale of his goods with surprising vigor. In fact the company is hardly able to keep up with the orders and will be compelled to increase their capacity next year.
Entering the first building facing the east, our reporter found a neatly arranged office, where the business of the company is transacted, and in the rear, under the same roof, he found an immense amount of finished stock all arranged in apple-pie order and ready for shipment. This building is 20-x60 feet on the ground and is a good, substantial structure. The next building to the west covers an area of 20-x60 feet and is the paint room proper. The third building is of the same size as the first two named and contains the machinery, where all the planing and dressing of timber is done.
The fourth building, 16x24, contains the engine and boiler. The fifth building, 20x50, contains the blacksmith shop. A large force of hands is steadily employed in all the departments, and windmills, tanks and towers are manufactured with wonderful rapidity. The company uses the very best of timber in the manufacture of their mills, the fans and vane being made of cypress wood, the lightest and most durable soft wood known in this country. It cannot be broken or twisted in two by any ordinary means, and will stand exposed to the weather for a life time. The arms and braces are made of solid oak timber which renders them strong and durable. The company is now on a solid basis financially and otherwise, and are destined to become the leading windmill factory of the west. Their mill has no equal for simplicity and durability, and persons who have had an opportunity to test its merits would not use any other. The factory is a grand advertisement for Columbus and its prosperity and increasing patronage is bound to prove of incalcuble benefit to every property owner in our city. We have several other important institutions in Columbus which will receive due attention from this paper later on.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, October 4, 1889COLUMBUS WILL BOOM.
__________THE UNION PACIFIC COMPANY GETS A MOVE ON ITSELF.
__________Eight New Stalls Will be Added to the Round House--The Freight House to be Moved--A Stand Pipe Erected--Several Thousand Feet of Side Track to be Laid--Numerous Other Improvements of an Important Nature.
The Union Pacific folks are about to make some important changes at this place, which will tend to give our city quite a little boom and afford employment for a large number of extra hands.
The company has determined to move their freight house from its present location to a much better site east of their stone depot. They will next take down their water tank and erect a stand pipe at the crossing on Olive street. Several thousand feet of additional side track will be constructed, the ice house will be converted into a repair shop, a large storage room for coal will be built and numerous other improvements made which will be mutually beneficial to the company and our city. The company has also decided to add eight new stalls to the round house, but it being so late, this work may not be commenced until spring.
The Union Pacific company has done much for Columbus in the past and it evidently intends to continue its good work for us in the future. Columbus is destined to become one of the prominent cities of the west, and there will be a revival of business here within the next sixty days that will startle the natives. We are ready for the boom, let it come with the fury of a cyclone.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, October 18, 1889
THE POST OFFICE BUILDING
__________It Will Be Erected At Once--To Be Located North of the Union Pacific Depot--James Pearsall the Contractor.
From Tuesday's Daily.
The contract was let this morning for the new postoffice building. James Pearsall will erect it for the sum of $3,000 and agrees to have it completed in sixty days. The building will be 22x50 feet, two stories high and facing east on North street and located on the north side of the alley and just south of the Rorer & McDill block. The first floor will be occupied by Postmaster Kramer, as the postoffice, and it is thought the telephone exchange will occupy the second floor. The front of the building will be of pressed brick and it will present a neat and tasty appearance. It is being erected by the Columbus Real Estate and Improvement company, and will be one more valuable addition to the 1889 building improvements in Columbus.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, November 22, 1889
D. C. Kavanaugh is moving in from Platte Center and will occupy the Early house east of the court house, in which he lived before removing from here last year.S.S. Rickly and Jacob Wagner will open a meat market on Eleventh street, next to Sam Gass' furniture store about the first of next week. The firm name will be Rickly & Wagner. These gentlemen are well known to our people, and the fact that Mr. Rickly is an experienced butcher is a guarantee that the market will be first class in every particular.
The Columbus Weekly Telegram, December 27, 1889
The firm of Gus G. Becher & Co. has just closed a deal with E. W. North and E. H. Chambers, selling to them their entire insurance business. Beecher & Co. will continue the real estate and loan business.
North & Chambers will take charge of their newly acquired business, January 1, 1890. They have not yet settled on a location for their office.
Messrs. North & Chambers are young men of good business qualifications and sterling integrity, and they will undoubtedly keep the insurance business up to the high standard that was attained by their predecessors.
Becher & Co’s. object in disposing of the insurance business is that with their heavy real estate and loan business, they have more than they can take care of.
The firm of Beecher & Co., ranks high in Columbus business circles, while the new firm will doubtless take a prominent place in our commercial world.
THE TELEGRAM heartily wishes them success all around, and firmly believes that they will achieve it.