1895
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January 3, 1895
Random Recollections and Rambling Ruminations-Continued
By Old Timer
As Old Timer looks through the snow flakes he sees that pioneer of pioneers, Jack Papinaw, passing by, and is reminded of a story John C. Miller tells on Jack's wife. Away back, soon after the close of the war, John was rowing across Pine Lake from the Dixon place one day, when he saw that good little woman, who then lived where the resort is now located, making frantic gesticulations in the direction of a neighboring tree. As John came nearer, he heard the lady yell, "bear!" John landed, and meeting Louis McSauba they went up and found a large ground hog.
When we heard of the Charlevoix orchestra the other night we thought of another story John tells us about the first band that ever awoke the echoes of Pine Lake. In 1867 the Millers-Uncle Hugh, Robert, Wm. M, and John C., conceived the idea of getting up a martial band. They found a suitable ash log, from which they made the shells of two drums, tanned their own sheep skins for the heads and strung them up. Uncle Hugh played the fife. The first work of this pioneer organization was to serenade Mr. Dixon and family.
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Trustee Harris, of the Charlevoix Common Council, was married on Wednesday evening of last week, to Miss Lovey Kissner, of this village. Rev. Dr. Hallenbeck performed the ceremony. Mr. and Mrs. Harris made a trip to Grand Rapids and Chicago.
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G. C. Geiken has taken the Beaver Island mail contract, and will carry it with the tug Geiken from this port as long as the lake is open.
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January 17, 1895
Married last evening, by Rev. Dr. Hallenbeck, at the residence of Jas. Huntington, Mr. Samuel Alexander, of Ironton, and Miss Hattie Williams of Charlevoix.
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Random Recollections and Rambling Ruminations
By Old Timer
It begins to be evident that the Charlevoix Historical Society has, along with the democratic party "gone glimmering." Both seem to [have] outlived their usefulness. It was almost twenty years ago that four or five persons, including the late Hon. John S. Dixon, and the versatile Colonel Wisner met at the office of Old Timer and organized the society for which almost two decades kept the literary and social flame of Charlevoix burning upon its altar. But our vestal virgins have gone out after strange gods-the Chatauqua Circle, and those with musical manias have crowded the old favorite to the wall. We hope some day to see the flame rekindled, and the Charlevoix Historical Society again assume a good healthy activity. There is something pathetic in the death of an old friend like this.
And do you remember the Charlevoix Liberal Club? It flourished a decade and a half ago but for several years has been only a memory. Its discussions awoke some criticism among orthodox people but still its rostrum was free to all, the Christian and Agnostic often met in debate at its meetings. But the Liberal Club died for the want of the vital element of life-breath.
But Old Timer finds himself thinking that Charlevoix has reached that stage of ripeness when a Pioneer Society should step into the arena and demand a share of the honors. Why should not the old pioneers pull themselves together and keep fresh the memories of the early days? We should not live too much in the past, but there has been too much to hallow the early days of Charlevoix history in the hearts of old settlers to permit them to be forgotten. Keep an eye out ahead but keep sacred the associations of pioneer days.
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January 24, 1895
Old Timer reads in a Detroit paper of the annual meeting of the Shipmaster's Association of the Lakes, in that city last week. It also prints a very excellent likeness of Capt. Alexander Clark, president of the association. Do you remember the bluff, hearty, good-looking first mate of the propeller Idaho back as early as 1869?
For several years he was with Capt. Penny in the Idaho and the way he hustled the deck-hands and the wood trucks was a terror to the crew. He thought nothing of knocking down a rebellious "hobo" but was a genial, pleasant gentleman, notwithstanding. He once backed the Idaho out leaving Capt. Penny ashore, and did not discover his mistake until the steamer was nearly "hull down" from Pine River dock. He was finally appointed Master of the Badger State, and later to the command of larger boats, and now his fellows have given him a pleasanter billet. He is also Seaman's Benevolent Association president.
In a vision as it were, Old Timer sees the weather-beaten faces and sturdy forms of the old skippers passing before him. Let's scan the line. Gibson, fatherly old James Gibson, who commanded the old Fountain City, is now in the America, one of the finest of freighters, and is stockholder in the line. Carlisle, fat, slouchy, who was in the Potomac, sailed the Milwaukee and other boats many years, and died three years ago in Buffalo. Dodge, of the Craig, Java, and Philadelphia, is now inspector of Hulls for this district. Drake, "Little Jimmy," who rang the bells on the Oneida, and always wore bug topboots and a plub hat, is retired in good circumstances and lives in Port Huron.
"Jim" Pratt, who sailed the Dean Richmond, and lost her by fire in the Soo River, was quite recently sailing the S.S. Saginaw Valley. Penny, of the old favorite, Idaho, retired well off many years ago, and lives at Henderson, N. Y. Wright, who was promoted from a mate's berth in the Fountain City to the command of the Empire State, was, when last heard from, sailing an express wagon in Buffalo. Whiskey! Perkins, who was Gibson's immediate predecessor in the Fountain City, died many years ago at his home in Ashtabula, Ohio. Shea, mate for several years in the Idaho, sailed the Scotia for some time and succeeded Carlisle in the Milwaukee.
Gillies, Gibson's son-in-law, a mate in the old days, now sails a fancy boat in the old W. T. Line. Old Jack Brown, who for years sailed the bay steamer Paine, was two years ago time-keeper for an upper Wisconsin lumbering concern. Tom Dailey, the old engineer of the Idaho, and later with Dodge in the Van Raalte, is now a U. S. marine boiler in Detroit; and Chipman, engineer in the Fountain City, has the same kind of a "snap" in Milwaukee. Ed Condon, who sailed the noisy old Mohawk, and who was known as "Gentleman Ed," who wore kid gloves and a white necktie, died a few years ago of a broken heart, after his removal from the crack modern boats, for an unlucky trip. They were heroes in all, in their day and generation, and "we ne'er shall look upon their like again."
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January 31, 1895
Random Recollections and Rambling Ruminations-Continued
By Old Timer
While we are talking about pioneer steamboat matters Old Timer is reminded of a feature of the subject that may not be generally known. During the seasons of 1868 and 1869, the steamer Ella Burroughs ran on Grand Traverse Bay. "Pine River" (Charlevoix) was of insufficient importance to be included as a regular point and the boat only came this far twice a week for the first year. M. S. Gagnon, now the landlord of the Ferguson House in this village, was half owner and steward of the Burroughs.
By the way, it was the Burroughs that Capt. Oscar E. Wilbur, of this place, received his first training as a steamboat man. He was mate of that steamer in 1869. Perhaps you have not thought of it, but Capt. Wilbur has traveled more miles on Grand Traverse Bay than any living creature except, perhaps, the sea serpent. In 1867 he was sailing a boat around the bay, and his steamboat experience since is too well known to make it necessary here to relate.
It is a little abrupt to change the subject from steamboats to horse, but Old Timer was thinking that if Auntie Vosburg's pony could talk he could relate pioneer history with the best of us. In 1869 he was the property of Rev. J. Gullick the first Methodist pastor. He (the horse) was then four years old and between the two of them the gospel was carried to the outposts at stated periods. Mrs. Vosburg purchased the animal from Brother Gullick, and the rest is known. His life will bridge the chasm between the two county seats of Charlevoix, providing he lives until spring, and he will. He is more than old enough to vote.
The following incident was revealed to Old Timer: In 1857 the Thompsons lived on the old homestead here and the only thoroughfare was the beach. A stranger struck the river one day, and the only sound indicating human habitation that greeted his ears was the tinkle of a cow bell. No hospitable roof revealed itself to him through the trees, and not even a path enticed his footsteps from the surf beaten shore. But he followed the sound of the cow bell and soon came upon the browsing bovine. Then catching the astounded bossy by the tail he hung on until both emerged, panting, into Medad Thompson's clearing.
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January 24, 1895
Old Timer reads in the dailies of the marriage lately of a daughter of Capt. Mees, of Muskegon. This is the Capt. Mees who put the first passenger steamer on our inland waters. It was the Annie, and she ran several seasons in the 70's making Pine Lake and South Arm alternatively.
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February 14, 1895
Random Recollections and Rambling Ruminations-Continued
By Old Timer
A volume of the early history of Charlevoix county would not be complete without a chapter devoted to the little village on the south of us-a lovely hamlet over-looking the mouth of Grand Traverse Bay, and nestled down within almost an arrow's flight of the Antrim county border.
The charm of its situation is best appreciated as, on a clear, calm day you pass on the bay steamer; when its broad background of field is brilliant with waving grain and its receding woodland enraptures you with its scenic grandeur.
The history of Norwood as a village is contemporary with that of Charlevoix. In 1866 it was known as a trading point when Orvis D. Wood, now of this place, and Orwin Adams, now dead, formed a partnership to do a manufacturing and merchantile business there. In that year they built the dock and saw mill, and opened a store down on the flat, near the dock.
A boarding house was established, and was opened by William Harris, now representative at Lansing. He was soon succeeded by George Olney, now of this place. Old Timer ate at his table in 1868 and remembers the menu to this day.
The "factotum" of all the territory over which the "company" held sway, was Tom Carter. Who of the old settlers does not remember Tom? He was jovial and convivial; always happy. Indeed there were times when he failed to distinguish between basswood and maple; but he rarely ever "lost his marble."
About the only settlers there that year were the Staffords, Elmer Clark, and Jas. Shores, Sr. Parker McIntyre came soon after. Propeller wood was the chief staple.
The Union Line Steamers wooded there, and several "wild" boats took fuel. Norwood was the commercial center of a territory reaching back many miles and a large portion of Antrim county contributed to its trade.
A change occurred in 1871 when Wood & Ames retired and Barber and Ballard assumed the management of affairs. Tom Carter continued as general superintendent during this dispensation, also, and retired in 1871, when F. J. Meech succeeded Barber & Ballard. Mr. Meech conducted the business up to 1886, erecting the present store building and several houses, when he was succeeded by Guyles & Nash. The death of Mr. Guyles, soon after left Mr. Nash sole proprietor and the administration of business affairs at Norwood is still in the hands of Mr. Nash.
It is no wonder that the natural beauties of Norwood should have attracted the lovers of beauty in nature. It is no wonder S. B. Chase, Charles Ferguson and Geo. Van Pelt picked out this gem from the cluster of gems which studded [the] shores of Grand Traverse Bay.
Their beautiful summer homes on the high terrace beautified with the many esthetic touches of deft hands, in shrubbery and vine and tree, in arbor and trellis and nook and walk, no wonder they count the laborious hours and yearn for the day in the beautiful spring time when they shall close the desk and hurry to their precious possessions.
Norwood is blessed with a community of good people. A beautiful little church is in the midst of the pleasant homes, and not far from it a school house of modern style graces the steady, common sense little town.
Old Timer loves Norwood; because about it linger so many associations linked with his pioneer life near it happy hours were spent, and its hospitable homes have since many times warmed his heart and replenished his script.
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March 14, 1895
An Electric Buggy
Mr. R. W. Elston, of this place, has perfected an electric wagon that has in it the elements of revolution in road transit.
Our reporter was ushered into Mr. Elston's workshop in the upper portion of his residence yesterday, and shown the vehicle, which has occupied about two years of the inventor's time. The buggy itself is not unlike an ordinary road wagon, but there, the similarity stops. The motive power will be an electric storage battery motor, capable of running the wagon nine hours.
The forward gear is arranged to guide the vehicle by a wheel, in front of the driver, and the rear wheels are fitted to the axle in such a manner as to release by a cam, either wheel from its connection with the axle, in rounding a curve, the advantage of which will at once suggest itself. This is a feature that has never yet been attached to vehicles of this character, is most advantageous characteristic of the wagon.
The wagon moves light, guides easily, and when complete will weigh but 1,000 pounds. It will carry two persons beside the driver, and will make twelve miles per hour on level road.
There is no doubt of the efficiency of Mr. Elston's invention and we hope that the manufacturing of the Elston Electric Road Wagon will, ere long, be a Charlevoix industry.
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March 21, 1895
The War Department has prepared an interesting sketch of Mackinac Island Military Reservation, the history of the old fort, etc., which is about to pass into control of Michigan. The sketch is in the form of a memorandum prepared by Secretary Lamont in order that he might readily understand the condition of the land about to be transferred. The military reservation comprises 103 acres, making a total of 1,014 acres belonging to the United States. The position is one of no present importance in a military sense and is not intended to be permanently fortified.
The old fort is of historic interest, however. The place was surrendered by the British to the United States in 1795. The present Fort Mackinaw was built by the British in 1785. In 1812 the post, then held by a United States garrison, was surrendered to the British. In 1814 an American attack for recapture of the position was repulsed. In 1815 it was returned to the United States and has continued in our control, and has been continuously garrisoned. Secretary Lamont says: "The old for itself should not be abandoned, but kept an interesting memorial of the past." It was is pursuance to the suggestions of this official document that the War Department assented to letting the property go to Michigan.
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March 28, 1895
Capt. G. C. Geiken returned from Cleveland Friday, having while there sold the tug Ben Campbell to the Cleveland Tug Co., for the consideration of $8,000. The Campbell is to be used in Cleveland as a harbor tug. Capt. Geiken purchased of the same concern the tug Maggie Sanborn for $2,5000, and will use her here as a harbor tug. [Geiken] expects to take the Campbell down and bring back the Sanborn early in the season.
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Thursday was the 80th birthday of the venerable and estimable mother of Rev. W. H. McCartney, and the afternoon and evening of that day was the occasion of the gathering of a number of the old lady's friends at the McCartney residence. We understand there was no pedro, but that the old ladies talked with a vigor that would have put the county seat committee to the run.
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April 4, 1895
Charlevoix and the county seat were divorced nine years ago. The separation was due to a misunderstanding as to the mutual family weal. Now the two are happily re-united, and the future is full of bright promise for both.
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April 11, 1895
ANNEXED
Beaver Island Group Now A Part of Charlevoix
Co.
On Thursday last, the bill to disorganize Manitou County was passed by both houses of the legislature, and was signed by the governor the following day. The Manitou and Fox Islands, are, by the provisions of the bill, annexed to Leelanau county, and the Beaver group became a part of Charlevoix county. The bill took immediate effect.
This bill has been pending for some time, and, coming as it did, during the county seat campaign, it was put down by Boyne City partisans as a Charlevoix scheme. Such, however was not the case.
Beaver Island, which are at this writing as much a part and parcel of Charlevoix Co. as Charlevoix township, is composed of three townships, Chandler, Galilee, and Peanine, and have a population of 600. The total area of the group is-Beaver Island proper, 29,440 acres; other islands 6,400 acres; total 35,840 acres. The real estate valuation is $66,722; personal, $18,722. The soil is as fertile as any in the county and there are a number of prosperous and well-to-do farmers on the islands. But commercially, Beaver Island is noted for its fishing industry, which is extensive and lucrative.
We are certain that Beaver Islands are to be congratulated upon their new geographical place in the map of Michigan. We are confident that the future will prove that every feature of their existence as citizens of Michigan will prove that the people of Beaver Islands will reap benefits that they have never yet enjoyed. The merging of Beaver Islands into Charlevoix county merges the interests of both.
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April 25, 1895
The Charlevoix Summer Home Board, at is annual meeting last fall, unanimously voted to put in an independent system of water-works on the grounds this spring, and yesterday a carload of two and three inch pipe arrived for 7,500 feet of mains. The supply of water will be taken from six inch wells, from 75 to 100 feet depth, and a contract for one of them is already let. It will be sunk on the west side of the resort, and a steam pumphouse erected. It is to be regretted that the city system could not have been placed on the grounds, but the Board and the Council could not get together and the above is the result. Cottages will not be supplied until after a system of sewerage is put in. Work on the system will be commenced at once under supervision of Warden Miller and it is expected that a large number of men will be employed in order to push the work as rapidly as possible. The Charlevoix Hardware Co. will do the plumbing.
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The star of police authority again graces the breast of Capt. Harrison Berdan.
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May 2, 1895
A relic of King Strang has been dug up at St. James, on the site of the "King's house." It is a furnace and kettle combined Mason's-pattern, manufactured in Utica, N. Y. in 1840.
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Marshall Berdan, by orders of the council, will hereafter ring the "curfew." At 8 o'clock p.m. the village bell will strike the hour and all boys will be off the streets. The marshall give notice that he will enforce this rule to the letter. Let the boys take due notice and govern themselves accordingly.
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May 9, 1895
An Island With a History and a Domain With a Future
Scattered are the prophets, and the King's head lies low, yet, never while the human mind revels in the enchanting tales of long ago will Beaver Island entirely emerge from the atmosphere of Mormon mystery and tradition of saintship. The waves which once washed to the hearthstone of the King himself have receded, and the sward has followed the beating surf; but still the antiquarian sees in the ashes and charred bricks of the palace visions of the past when the self-styled "Lord's Annointed" held sway over all that his eye could compass.
Even Fox Islands were included in his realm and "Patmos" he named it. No doubt from its hillsides the island monarch duped his followers with "revelations" of latter day doctrine.
A visit to St. James and its surroundings is now doubly interesting to us of the mainland, since the boundaries of Charlevoix county has been extended westward. As we approach the harbor the view is enchanting. The white lighthouse seems to beckon us into shelter and the verdure clad back ground of the little village and harbor charms the beholder.
Fishermen with their nets, going and coming; the docks burdened with all the appurtenances of busy traffic in the products of the seine and gillnet are the first features of Island life that present themselves. Then we are met with hearty hand grasps and as hearty words of welcome. Warm-hearted Celts are on your right hand and on your left, and hospitality beams in every face.
Capt. Neill Gallagher, almost to the manor born, bustles about dividing his time between his own active business and your entertainment, pointing out historic spots and exhibiting to you relics of the saints of Strangdom.
The cravings of the inner man seem to come as you inhale the bracing air of the straits and you pass up the narrow sidewalk to Mrs. Gibson's boarding house, where you are greeted with a cordiality worthy of a Boniface, and find yourself in a neat, cosy, sitting room, to which the welcome aroma of dinner finds its way from the dining room. No person ever went away from Mrs. Gibson's hungry. The distributing point for Beaver Island hospitality seems to be at the Gibson House.
But the beauties of the island are best appreciated as you walk up the excellent gravel road something more than a mile to the parish church, the home of the good priest, Rev. F. P. Gallagher. For nearly thirty years this good man has ministered to his island flock, sharing with them their joys and sorrows, ministering to the sick and dying, burying their dead, baptising their offspring, and marrying their young men and maidens. It was our good fortune on a Sabbath to attend divine worship at the little church. The room was crowded with a devout congregation. After the mass the priest preached an excellent sermon from the text: "And Jesus came and stood in the midst of them."
Our interests and those of the island are now identical and Charlevoix should exert every effort to better the condition of its westward neighbors.
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May 23, 1895
THE SCHOOL EXHIBIT
It spoke eloquently of the Progress
of the Schools
The school exhibit held in the High School room last Friday afternoon and evening was an event in the history of our schools which will be long remembered by those who attended, as one of the most successful entertainments the school has ever given. The school room was beautifully decorated with flowers, and the exhibit was so arranged that a most pleasing effect was produced.
Beginning with the first grade the visitor was shown the sewing and paper folding work of the first year pupils. Here also was the work in numbers, penmanship, etc. of the little ones. The teachers of this grade are to be congratulated upon the success of their labors.
Next came the exhibit of the second grade. In this grade also, one saw the beautiful work of the kindergarten. The teacher of this grade is Miss Potter, and the work displayed shows that great care has been taken in training the pupils of the second year.
The third grade in charge of Miss Moore, exhibited some excellent maps of Charlevoix county.
The fourth, fifth, and sixth grades exhibited excellent maps, as well as fine work in all studies.
The pulp maps shown by the seventh grade deserves special mention. These maps showed the physical features of South America and were a credit to the grade.
The feature of especial interest in the exhibit of the eighth grade was the Literature books. Portraits of noted authors were nicely arranged, and under each portrait was a written quotation from the works of the author. This part of the exhibit attracted much attention.
The exhibit from the high school showed much careful work in preparation. Written work from each branch of study was exhibited. The work in literature, history, botany, and bookkeeping deserves special mention.
All who visited the exhibit pronounced it a grand success and went home well satisfied with the results. Many thought that the exhibit ought to be of regular occurrence.
Superintendent Wilson is a tireless worker, a scholar, and yet a student in educational progress. He is doing good work, and has been very ably seconded by his assistants.
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May 30, 1895
And now O. S. Washburn is riding a bicycle, and our faith in humanity is forever blasted. We never would have thought it.
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William Moon of New York City, arrived on the City of Charlevoix yesterday, and thereon hangs an interesting story. Mr. Moon, in 1854, was a cook on a lake vessel that landed at St. James. Mr. Moon's sister is Mrs. Moore, a resident of Beaver Island, and the mother of Mrs. R. Cooper. Moon had not been heard from by his relatives all these 41 years and was supposed dead. He went to New York, shipped in a vessel, and finally became master and commanded a ship for some years. Yesterday he appeared to his sister, as one from the grave.
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June 13, 1895
The Charlevoix Masonic fraternity have an option on 45 feet front of the Dougherty property, on the corner of Bridge and Mason streets, and will probably secure the property. This means a Masonic Temple in the not far distant future.
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Citizens of St. Ignace propose to honor the last resting place of Father Marquette with a monument befitting the courage and enterprise of the explorer and missionary, who in 1670 established his Jesuit college, military stations and missionary headquarters there. Thirty years ago Father Jacker of St. Ignace, by a study of the records of Pere Marquette's life, death and burial, and exact measurements, located his grave in this village. A modest monument has since marked the spot. Arrangements are now being made for a State Memorial service there next August 6, next. Following this it is proposed to erect a monument which shall suitably commemorate the distinguished explorer.
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June 20, 1895
ELECTRIC LIGHTS
Charlevoix will be Brilliantly
Illuminated Within 40 days
On Monday morning, the council, by unanimous vote, accepted the proposition of Mr. Charles Gabriel, of Saginaw, for the construction and operation on an electric light plant.
The contract which was drawn up at once, embodies the granting of a franchise, conditions of which are as follows: Mr. Gabriel erects the power and dynamo house, adjoining the water works building, and furnishes to the village 15 arc lights, of 2,000 candle power each. The village, on its part, furnishes steam to operate the plant from the water-works boilers, and the ground for the plant.
Rates for incandescent lamps, will be, for stores, 50 cents each per month, with special rates for a large number in one place. In private houses, $18 per year for three lamps, and one dollar additional per year for each other lamp. The lamps will be of 16 candle power.
The motive power will be of 160 horsepower engine. There will be two dynamos, on of 30 arc light capacity and one of 1,000 incandescent light capacity.
Work will be commenced immediately, and Mr. Gabriel expects to have the plant in operation in six weeks. Mr. Gabriel will remove here and become a permanent resident, operating the plant himself.
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June 20, 1895
The Sentinel does not desire to be classed as an iconoclast, but it owes a duty to society which it must discharge. The Petoskey sea serpent story with all its harrowing and hair-lifting details is a bald-headed, be-whiskered fraud on a too credulous public and should be punctured. The "monster" which has caused all this excitement from time to time, and which is now in the possession of Mr. Shay at Harbor Springs, is no more nor less than a very crooked tree trunk that has been beating about in Little Traverse Bay for years. Its peculiar shape, and the fact that it has become black with slime and smooth with the buffeting of the waves, gave it a very serpent-like appearance. It has two long prongs on its small end, and was "bellied" in such a way that it was continually rolling in the swell. Its upper end was crooked in such a way that when the object rolled over the head and tail would appear above the water; another roll and they would disappear, and the hump of the body would disclose itself. It was so formed that it could not beach itself, and the prevailing northerly winds kept it roaming about the bay to frighten small boys and inebriates into convulsions. Reputable citizens of Northern Michigan have frequently seen it. It finally got partially ashore near Harbor Springs where Mr. Shay and Schuyler S. Olds discovered it, had it photographed and stored in Mr. Shay's shop, where the Harbor Springs magnate has it in the hands of skilled artisans, who will add to it a tin head, and preserve it as a specimen in natural history. Petoskey has a breakwater; she must give up her sea serpent.
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June 27, 1895
The electric lighting contract gives us 16 arc lights of 2,000 candle power each, to be run till midnight. There will be scarcely a place within the corporation that you cannot read a newspaper on the street during that time. There will be less monkey doodle business on the streets the first half of the night at least.
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The contract between the village and Mr. Gabriel was signed Thursday evening, and that gentleman left here Saturday morning for Saginaw and Chicago.
In Chicago he will purchase the engine, dynamos, wire and lamps for the plant. Mr. Gabriel expects to be back here Saturday of this week and the material will follow him closely. In thirty days from its arrival the plant will be in operation.
Orders for incandescent lights already exceed Mr. Gabriel's expectations. A large majority of our business places and offices and many residences will take lights and both resorts will be in the circuit. The plant which in operation will cost $12,000.
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July 11, 1895
R. W. Elston will go to Racine next week with his road wagon, for the purpose of applying the Remington hot air motor thereto. Mr. Elston has unquestionably made a success of his vehicle.
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July 11, 1895
Mr. Chas. Gabriel, the electric light man with his family arrived Thursday and are now a part of our population. They have rented the Mrs. Burns house at the west end of Clinton street, and have already occupied it. While away Mr. Gabriel purchased the machinery and material for the plant, and it is now on the way here. The machinery consists of a 150 horsepower Ball automatic high speed engine, and a Westing-house two-phase alternating dynamo of 1,500 incandescent capacity, with all the modern improvements and attachments. The lamps are all of the most approved patterns. Mr. Gabriel is now very busy making contracts for poles, and arranging for the erection of the building. In 30 days we shall be illuminated.
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July 18, 1895
An event of much historical interest is to be celebrated at St. Ignace on August 6. On that day a handsome monument will be unveiled to the memory of Father Marquette, one of the most interesting and romantic characters connected with the early history of Michigan. Born in 1737, he entered the society of Jesus at the age of 17, and at the age of 29 he sought and received orders which sent him across the ocean to do missionary work among the Indians. In May, 1673, he located near the present site of St. Ignace where he built a rude chapel and established a mission. His life was devoted to a work that has more to do with the Christianizing and civilizing or red men, as well as the development of this whole northern region, than the work or influence of any other individual. The self-sacrifices he made for humanity, brought him to an early grave at the age of 38 years, but his memory will be cherished by a grateful people. The occasion of the unveiling of the monument will be made on the most solemn and imposing events ever occurring in this part of the state, and will be attended by Governor Rich, several congressmen, Senators McMillan and Burrows, Bishops Richter and Foley, and many other prominent persons.
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July 25, 1895
Mark Twain lectured at Petoskey Saturday night, and Geo. Kennan, the Siberian traveler, spoke at Bay View Monday night. A number of Charlevoix people went down both nights.
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Miss Edith Hawkins went to Bellaire Monday to help out court Stenographer Henderson in circuit court.
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August 15, 1895
Manager Gabriel of the Electric Company, yesterday received a letter from the Westinghouse Electric Company that they are bringing out a new arc lamp, embodying great improvements over any heretofore used. Although Mr. Gabriel's order was in they advised waiting for the new lamp, which will be ready Sept. 1st. Manager wants to give us the best there is and will wait. Meantime work will go forward and everything put in complete shape for a general illumination when the lamps arrive. The big engine has come and is in place. The dynamos are on the way here. The poles are about all set and the wire strung.
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August 15, 1895
The short time given us before going to press prevents our giving such notice of the Lady Minstrels as they deserve. The entertainment last night was unique. It was given by resort young ladies assisted by two gentlemen of resort prominence, and two Charlevoix musical ladies of the village. The house was packed, and every number well received. The program was excellently rendered and may be pronounce an unqualified success in every feature.
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The Bohemian Glass Blowers in the Lewis Grand Opera House block are a great attraction.
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August 22, 1895
The Catholic Indians are building a church at Bay Shore having commenced clearing the lot and the work will go right along to completion.
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And now the engineers say the Chicago drainage canal will lower Lake Michigan from seven to ten inches, but it will take two years to do it.
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The plans for the new Meech residence on Lindsay Park are out, and, as is usual with all Kirkpatrick's work, show an elegance of architectural design and beauty of detail, that are a credit to the architect. The house will be one of the largest in town, modern in every particular and will constitute a big starter for that beautiful addition, Lindsay Park.
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S. B. Chase and a party of friends from Chicago and C. H. Ferguson are all on the Jordan fishing this week. Nick Shores and Colonel Wisner have charge of the party and some one will get dumped in [the] river. There are seven of them all and their combined weight is reported at one ton.
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August 29, 1895
J. Milo Eaton has removed his law office to the Brown bank building, on the ground floor.
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Mason & Clayden are moving their stock to their new quarters in the Green Block. This is the last week of the removal sale and great bargains are offered.
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Bert Fox will open his restaurant and temperance billiard hall in the Fox building near the bridge on Saturday of this week. Bert has a neat place and knows how to run a restaurant, having had several years experience in Chicago.
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September 12, 1895
Mrs. Robert Paddock, of Lancaster, Ohio, is at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Nicholls. She is accompanied by her friend, Mrs. White of the same place.
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Rev. C. F. Gates, son-in-law of Col. S. M. Moore, and who will be remembered here, has been elected President of Euphrates College, at Horpoot, in Turkey. Mr. Gates has for 15 years been a missionary in Mardin, Messopotamia, under the American Board. This is the only college in Armenia, and is under American control.
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Col. S. M. Moore invited a number of citizens on board his yacht, the Lady Jane, on Monday afternoon last, for a run about the harbor and into Pine Lake. The ride was a very enjoyable one. Congressman Avery was with the party. Several brief speeches were made by members of the party and Dr. Avery was talked to very earnestly about harbor appropriations.
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Mr. R. W. Elston has ordered a Pennington gasoline motor for his patent horseless carriage. Yesterday he had the vehicle photographed for entry in the international motor-bicycle race that is to occur on November 2nd for Milwaukee to Chicago.
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We write this under an incandescent electric light. Every night since the first, the light has steadily improved, until now we have a bright, steady light that does not vary a particle. There is no better light anywhere than the Charlevoix system, and we know of several plants that cannot "hold a candle to it."
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The Cram & Whitford saw-mill is finished and ready for machinery. Two fine residences for members of the firm are about completed and another is under way. Several houses will be built this fall for employees. Next spring will see the concern in operations, and employing thirty men.
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One day last week Miss Honor Nicholls called at the Sentinel office and bought an extra copy of the Sentinel. The copy will go around the world. Her brother Richard, who left here last fall for a trip around the world, left Vancouver one day last week for Australia. By a pre-arranged plan the paper will follow him by re-mailing and will encircle the globe returning here to Miss Nicholls address from England, which it will be exhibited in the Sentinel office.
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September 19, 1895
A young daughter is the latest invoice of the new goods received by Mr. and Mrs. Markham, over on our street. Clayden is pouting a little over what seems to be the better fortune of his partner, but they keep right on selling goods at the new store, and the whole firm is reaping the benefit of the acquisition.
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October 10, 1895
The Charlevoix Musical Club will hold its first meeting of the season on Friday evening of this week with Mrs. Kanagy.
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The depot is lighted by electricity now and the improvement is marked. An arc lamp will be put on the platform.
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Manager Gabriel and his men keep right on "sawing wood" in the perfection and extension of the electric lighting system. A consignment of the street lighting apparatus is on the way.
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In connection with the entertainment for the benefit of the Masonic Temple fund, which will occur Oct. 23 in Lewis' Opera House, it may not be amiss to state a fact which, though generally know, may yet be an item of news to a few. The Masonic fraternity recently purchased the N.E. corner of the A. K. Dougherty property, across from the Ferguson House, on Mason street, with a 54 foot frontage on Bridge street. This they propose to improve as fast as is expedient, and possibly by building thereon a suitable solid brick building to be known as "The Charlevoix Masonic Temple." The ground floor will comprise two well equipped store rooms, while the upper part of the building will be reserved for Masonic purposes.
To forward this plan, which is one of importance to the city, the Blue Lodge appeals to the public generally, for generous patronage on the occasion of the Dramatic entertainment on the evening of the 23rd. Miss Gale, who will give a series of readings will be assisted by our best musical talent and the program will be varied and entertaining.
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September 26, 1895
THE VETERANS
Their Enactment at Traverse City Great
Event
Somehow, as time rolls on and the ranks of the country's defenders grow thinner and the veteran's footsteps grow move uncertain, the annual re-unions and campfires increase in vitality and vigor. The old soldier is every day getting less numerous, but he is getting more in evidence when American patriotism is on trial and the bronze medal upon his breast becomes more and more like the glorious cross of Austerlitz upon the breast of one of the old guard. God preserve the old veterans!
The Annual Encampment of the Grand Traverse Soldiers' and Sailors' Association, at Traverse City last week, was the most successful in the history of the Association. Camp McPherson was the rendezvous, and it was the lap into which Traverse City emptied the cornucopia of its general hospitality. The attendance of soldiers was large, and everywhere they were received with big, wide-open hospitality that the veterans will not soon forget.
The evening campfires were full of interesting programs of that rare merit that belongs only to the G. A. R. Our Major Green spoke, and Comrade J. G. Reed vividly reviewed the battle of Mission Ridge, when the 86th Indiana of which he was a member, made the famous assault which turned the tide of battle.
The Charlevoix battalion numbered about 90 men, and in the parade of Wednesday, they surpassed all others in marching and in esprit de corps.
At the last business meeting Charlevoix was selected as the place for the next re-union. By a unanimous vote Hon. E. H. Green, of this place, was elected Commander and L. A. Clark of Harbor Springs was chosen as Vice Commander.
Our boys all speak in praise of Capt. O. E. Wilbur of the Steamer City of Grand Rapids, whose kindness and attention contributed much to the enjoyment of the battalion on its trip to Traverse.
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October 17, 1895
Stole a March on Us
Ex-Lieut. Governor Archibald Buttars is married! The Governor had never been given to surprising his friends so precipitately and when information reached here Monday from far away Vermont that Archie had taken unto himself a helpmeet, it paralyzed us, as it were. The Governor left town with the Detroit excursion and to all except his household it was supposed that he was visiting among his friends in the state, but Monday Mrs. F. J. Meech received a letter from her friend formerly known here as Miss Emma Blinn, dated at Shelburn Point, Vermont, and the letter was signed Mrs. A. Buttars.
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October 24, 1895
The Charlevoix Musical Society chorus will meet Friday evening of this week at the residence of W. A. Smith.
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October 24, 1895
Lewis Opera House was lighted by electricity last Saturday evening for the first time and the effect was fine to say nothing of the convenience afforded in stage work. The old chandelier transformed into an "electrolier."
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Hon. and Mrs. Archibald Buttars arrived here from the east Saturday, and are settled down in the Buttars house on State street.
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The propeller Lawrence came in Sunday, and went up the lake to load with lumber. Capt. Finucan in command.
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November 7, 1895
Hesperia (Mich.) paper: The National Comedy Co., is now in town and entertaining the people every night this week at Stannards Hall. They have several in their company, including Bert Dawson, the noted Irish comedian and impersonator; Bert Jarvis, cornet soloist, who also furnishes song and dance; Ernest Jarvis, trombone soloist; Mrs. Aggie Jarvis, flute soloist, and vocalist; and the two infant wonders, Reta Jarvis, aged 7, who sings the latest songs, and her brother Little Bobbie, the black face comedian, aged 3 years, who executes the buck and wing dance with surprising skill. The company has a complete band and gives a street parade every night at 6:30.
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"Jack," the Hayes Indian who so proudly wears the G. A. R. button, recently received about $400 back pension and his smile is broader than ever.
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Last week the Charlevoix Lumber Company shipped a carload of mattress frames to New York, from whence they will be shipped to London.
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November 14, 1895
Work began last week in putting the machinery of the Cram, Whitford and Sons saw mill. The mill will have a capacity of 35,000 per day and will employ about thirty men. The concern will put in about 3,000,000 feet of logs this winter and will in the spring build a dock of 400 feet on Pine Lake.
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November 21, 1895
Boyne Citizen: One of Charlevoix's north side electric lights is visible here. The distance is about eighteen miles.
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November 21, 1895
The Elston motor buggy is at J. S. Baker & Co.'s store on exhibition. The vehicle answers every purpose of a self-propelling buggy, and is bound to come into use as a convenient and cheap mode of transit. With good roads, which an awakening public sentiment is certain to provide, the Elston motor road wagon will, ere long be heard from.
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Electric lights are being steadily added to the lighting circuit. The Congregational Church held service last Sabbath evening under the electric lights, and the effect was beautiful. The court room has a liberal supply of incandescents, and the Ferguson House will wire up next week. Private houses are dropping into circuit one after another and manager Gabriel and his men are all busy as bees.
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The quiet, dignified little gentleman who is sitting up in the south end of the big room over at the county building, and just below whom an array of distinguished looking gentlemen sit in respectful waiting, was teaching a country school in this county ten years ago, and walking three miles from his boarding place to do it. And Charlevoix county is proud to see him sitting there, the embodiment of dignity and impartial justice. Judge Corbett can sit upon the bench of any circuit in Michigan, and honor the ermine no less than the ermine honors him. But they do say he arranged his terms of court with an eye to the deer-hunting season.
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The ladies of the Baptist Church will serve a first-class Thanksgiving dinner in the parlors of the church tomorrow. Turkey, goose, chicken, cranberry sauce, pumpkin and mince pie, etc., and all for the sum of twenty-five cents. Dinner at any time after twelve o'clock. You will be made welcome.
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November 14, 1895
A NAVAL BATTLE
Fought on Lake Michigan Between
Fishermen and Mormons
The following interesting bit of Mormon history is taken from the Detroit News:
Erie is not the only one of the five great lakes which can claim the honor of having had a naval battle upon its waters.
According to Robert Roe, an aged sea captain, of Harbor Springs, Lake Michigan was the scene of a sea fight, which, if not as famous as Commodore Perry's was nearly as hotly contested, considering the number of men engaged.
Capt. Roe relates that in the summer of 1853 an engagement took place off Pine River, upon which Charlevoix is now situated, between Mormons from Beaver Island and a number of gentile fishermen. Mr. Roe was then sailing upon these waters, and the circumstances were told to him by Mr. Hull, one of the fishermen engaged in the fight.
Mr. Hull had formerly been a Mormon, but he and a companion had become tired of King Strang's oppressive rules and had become apostates. A bitter feeling existed between the Mormons and fishermen. When Mr. Hull and his companion left St. James they naturally went to the fishermen for protection.
The Mormons determined to capture the runaways if possible. So two fishboats, each containing nine well-armed Mormons, put out from Beaver harbor to bring them back, dead or alive. The two deserters had taken up their abode in a settlement of fishermen near the mouth of Pine River.
When the two boats approached the shore, about a dozen fishermen, suspecting trouble, left their work and started for the little village. But the Mormons reached it first and were making threats to the women and talking violently. The Mormons then retreated to their boats and shoved out.
The fishermen followed them to the shore, when the Mormons fired, wounding a Mr. Geboo. The fishermen launched a boat and pursued them for about eight miles into the lake, and shots were hotly exchanged during the race. A Mr. Moon, one of the fishermen, and an excellent shot, was placed in the bow of the boat, and every time he fired, it is said, the Mormons could be seen to duck their heads. Afterwards, "look out for Moon" became a common expression at St. James.
But the fishermen had no cause to rejoice, for bullets were striking the water all about them. Mr. Hull received a ball in the fleshy part of his arm. Three Mormons were wounded, one of whom died.
Fortunately a vessel was lying becalmed on the lake upon which the Mormons took refuge, claiming they were fishermen, and were being pursued by Mormons. The crew helped keep off the fishermen, who soon returned to the shore.
The captain of the vessel afterwards said, when the Mormons reached him they were almost done up, but had he known the facts he would have sunk his ship before he would have helped them to escape.
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November 21, 1895
The Fish Hatchery
Mr. A. H. Carpenter, of the state brook trout hatchery at Paris, arrived Friday and started the Charlevoix hatchery.
The hatch this year will be principally of whitefish eggs taken from fish caught in Crystal Lake, back of Frankfort. Fishing is being done there with a seine by state authorities, and the fish caught are of a very superior quality.
About 4,000,000 eggs are already in the jars, and Mr. Carpenter left yesterday for Frankfort to secure more. Mr. Carpenter will be joined by Mr. Marks in December, and the plant will be operated until the opening of navigation.
The capacity of the Charlevoix hatchery is 30,000,000 eggs, and it will be run this winter to its fullest capacity.
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December 6, 1895
In the different phases of the development of Charlevoix in its more than a quarter of a century of existence, there is nothing more conspicuous than its churches, and nothing that more plainly reflects the intelligence and moral tone of its inhabitants than their membership. The first house of worship was a small frame school house, and even in that empty seats were not uncommon. Today we have five good church edifices, modern in their appointments and with the completion of the present improvements, architectural ornaments to the town. Their pastors are clergymen of culture and ability; indeed, it may be said, Charlevoix has one mark ahead of any other Michigan town, in having a Doctor of Divinity as one of its ministers. All of our churches are wide awake and progressive in the building up of their temporal interests, and their bells on Sabbath morning, sing a song not only of glad tidings, but of the outward march of civilization and prosperity.
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Mr. Thomas Boak is in receipt of a letter from his son, Gurley, who has many friends here, stating that he has a job as foreman on a breakwater construction at Bandon, Oregon, and is doing well, and that he and his wife are in the enjoyment of good health. He sends a paper from which we clip the following item: "The Recorder acknowledges its obligation to Earnie Boak, twelve year old son of Mr. and Mrs. G. Boak, for a choice piece of venison. Earnie had the good fortune to kill two deer a few days ago at what is known as Bradley's lake. While at the lake this morning he shot a very large, fat buck, and next morning he shot and killed another one somewhat smaller than the first.
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Hugh McCartney who has been employed in the Sentinel office since last spring, has accepted a position in a buggy factory in Chicago.
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December 12, 1895
A drove of six deer ran through the streets of Central Lake one day last week.
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December 12, 1895
The Charlevoix Flouring Mill is so crowded with orders that it is compelled to run nights.
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The Conable Fishing Co. have shipped by rail from the Charlevoix railroad dock, on Pine Lake, the past season, 757,500 pounds of fresh fish, 75 per cent of which were trout. The greater portion went to Chicago.
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Charlevoix has a new orchestra, and the boys are practicing up for the holidays events. The membership is as follows: Joe Graham, 1st violin; Sam B. Strong, cornet; Will Newman, flute; Bert Fox, clarinet; Ed. McNeill, trombone; Ed. Newman, piano; Sam B. Strong is director.
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Little Roley Lewis was holding Doctor Will's horse at the Opera House Saturday, when the animal took a notion to go home without consent. He switched the rig across the bridge on the jump, narrowly escaping the iron girders. The "kid" had presence of mind to slip out behind on the way up the hill and was unhurt. The horse brought up at the barn, with very little damage.
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December 19, 1895
The new mail arrangements with a regular steamboat running between Charlevoix and Manistique will greatly shorten the winter for our Beaver Island friends. They will only be closed in about three and a half months and in some seasons not at all.
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The fleet laid up in Charlevoix harbor, besides the regular harbor tugs, embraces the steamers Pine Lake, Cummings, Crescent, Gordon and Columbia, and the schooners Grove, Jennie Mullen, and Peoria. We miss three from the regular list-steamer Grand Rapids and schooner Florence Smith, sold, and the schooner Artic, lost.
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