Grand Haven, Mich. January 1892
T. H. Akeley, a former resident of this city, has opened a news counter in the Bridge St. House, Grand Rapids.
We are assured and can assure the public interested, that Mr. James Barns, his family and friends deeply and gratefully appreciate the sympathy and assistance extended to them so generously in the sorrow occasioned by the mysterious disappearance of Jay M. Barns.
Mr. and Mrs. John A. Pfaff gave a tea party at the Cutler last evening. Thirty-one guests were present. After supper card playing and social chat were indulged in.
The tramp who stole a pair of boots from the Excelsior Shoe Store Saturday afternoon was arrested the same evening, but was minus the boots having sold them to Jacob Nemire for $1. They were returned to the proper owner and Jake is one dollar sadder.
Mr. Frederich Charles Liddle, formerly of this city, now of Muskegon, was in the city yesterday calling on some of his old friends, and comparing the electric lights with those of his own town.
That enterprising Muskegon daily, the Muskegon News, issued a handsome souvenir with their paper yesterday. The souvenir contains many illustrations in beautiful tint of residences, business places and scenes in Muskegon. The News may well feel proud of its work, the best of its kind ever attempted in Western Michigan.
Four tramps were tried before Justice Pagelson this morning. Two of them, Joseph Powers and William Morgan, d&ds, were given 10 days in jail. James Burns and Joseph Grady for larceny from Juistema Bros.’ and Al. Juistema’s shoe stores were sentenced to 90 days at the Detroit House of Correction.
Yesterday's Grand Rapids Democrat was a handsome 48 page edition, as a New Year's souvenir. The edition contained a large amount of statistical matter showing the growth and prosperity of the Valley City, and is a credit to its publisher and city.
WILL WE HAVE ANOTHER TOLL BRIDGE?
As predicted in a former communication, the Grand Haven Bridge Co. has abandoned the Grand Haven and Spring Lake Toll bridge and the City of Grand Haven, with the aid of some of its enterprising citizens, has closed the gap which was left by the broken swing, and at present we have safe and free bridge, which can be used until the opening of navigation in the spring, when the channels will have to be cleared by the removal of the present temporary structure, and as that will give us only three months for the construction of a permanent swing-bridge, there will be no time to waste in settling the questions who will build and operate the permanent bridge? And will it be a free bridge?
We doubtless all agree that a bridge of some kind must be built at once, and a large majority of those interested, I believe, favor a free bridge. Many think the county ought to build it, but I have no idea that it will do anything of the kind, because the people living in the remote portions of our county can not be induced to take any interest in our bridge and the Supervisors representing them will not favor it. Some argue that Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Crockery and Polkton townships could afford to chip in, because the bridge will be used largely by the citizens of those townships, and they could better afford to do that than pay toll. This may be true, but there is no authority for it. Polkton and Crockery townships could not assist in building this bridge, if they would, because they cannot afford to raise appropriate money for building bridges outside of their territory.
It is probably the prevailing opinion that Grand Haven and Spring Lake ought to join hands and build it, and on this point I desire to be somewhat explicit. The township of Spring Lake is the gateway to the city of Grand Haven. It is only a partial township in territory, and is nearly surrounded with water. Only one of its numerous highways leads to the village of Spring Lake without a long bridge. Spring Lake has built and now keeps in repair eight long and expensive bridges, and a number of shorter ones and culverts, and there is probably not another township in the state of Michigan, equally burdened with bridges in proportion to its territory. Her people have the kindliest regards for their neighbors of Grand Haven with whom they are closely interlinked socially and in a business way, and it always gives them pleasure to meet their neighbors halfway and go them one better, and in this bridge business they have already done more than that. While the people of Spring Lake were paying toll to get to Grand Haven, they built, and are to-day operating at their own expense, a free iron swing-bridge between Ferrysburg and Spring Lake. It is very near the proposed new bridge, is in fact part of the same system of bridges and fully half the travel over this free iron bridge goes to Grand Haven. Gentlemen of Grand Haven! This bridge and the other seven long bridges, which the people of Spring Lake maintain at their own expense, and for which they have never asked you to contribute a dime, are your feeders, two thirds of your country patronage comes over these bridges to your city. Candidly, do you really think Spring Lake is asking too much of you, when it asks you to build and maintain just one free bridge, at your own expense, to accommodate travel from this direction? Spring Lake will doubtless gladly give that part of her territory that you will require for the purpose, and, some way can probably be found by which you may enable to proceed without delay.
The Spring Lake and Ferrysburg iron bridge, I believe, was first suggested by the writer. Croakers said it would be too expensive and could not be built. It was built however, and to-day all are glad of it. It was built in 1880, when iron bridges were much more expensive than they are now. The swing is 128 feet long and costs $2000, and the entire bridge costs $2798.66, all of which was taxed and paid by the township of Spring Lake the same year. The two channels under the old Grand Haven swing are each 75 feet in width, and the center support for the swing is 30 feet, making the total length of the swing 180 feet, which ought not be shortened very much, if any. A first class iron swing, with such other necessary expenses and repairs as may be required to complete this bridge, will probably cost about $4000 now, and later the approaches will require some repairs. The expense of tending the bridge will not be great, as no tender will be required in winter for a free bridge.
You doubtless too have croakers in Grand Haven, in fact I know you have because I heard some find fault with the limited expense incurred in temporary structures, fully one third of which was repaid to the business community of Grand Haven, in profits, from patronage of the people that crossed it on the day it was completed. It was the day before Christmas, and I know whereof I speak. These same men, and others, will probably complain of the cost of a new bridge. They found fault with the toll-bridge, and howled when there was no bridge. That element ought not keep the enterprising men of Grand Haven from doing that which is doubtless for the best interests of all its citizens. If Grand Haven will not speedily take steps to build a new bridge the board of Supervisors may, and ought to grant a new charter for a toll-bridge.
Spring Lake, Mich,. Dec. 31, ’91.
ALOYS BILZ.
The suction pipe from the electric works to the well was tested today.
The old landing place for emigrants from Europe, Castle Garden, has been changed to Ellis Island.
Pews were rented for the coming year at First Reformed church today.
There was no school in Miss Utter’s room in the Central building today, the damage done to that room by fire not yet having been repaired. Arrangements have been made to hold the sessions in the laboratory, until the room is ready for occupancy.
In the year 1891 there was a total of 15,417 vessels cleared and entered from Grand Haven district, or 7,710 vessels entered and 7,707 cleared. There were only three other marine districts in the United States besting this, with totals as follows: Milwaukee 20,994, Chicago 20,227 and New York 16,014. Boston stood second on the seaboard with only 6,080, Buffalo and Menominee district had a larger number than Boston.
Fully three to five inches of ice has formed on what is known as the Emlaw boom. Skating and ice cutting is next in order
Sheriff Vaupell escorted the shoe thieves, James Burns and Joseph Grady, to the Detroit House of Corrections today.
A fisherman attempted to cross the river in a canoe yesterday and was fully half an hour plowing through the slush ice.
The cargo of flour brought in by the Fountain City on her last trip is all destined for Europe by the way of Old Point Comfort, Va.
A slight blaze in the barn to the rear of the Cutler House called out the fire department about 8:30 last evening.
Last evening we enjoyed what might be called a-typical winter’s evening. At about 6 o’clock the sky cleared and a dense fog spread over the southern and eastern section of the city, something peculiar for a night so cold.
The city aldermen were at the electric plant this afternoon testing the quantity of water in the city well.
The Woman’s Club.
HISTORY DAY.
Owing to the stormy weather and prevailing sickness the attendance was small, but twenty-three members being present.
The musical part of the program opened with a vocal solo “All in a Garden Fair” charmingly rendered by Mrs. S. H. Boyce.
The first paper “Invasion and Conquest of the Goths” was carefully prepared and well read by Miss Cannon of Spring Lake.
Then followed a reading by Mrs. Boyce entitled “Roderick, the Gothic King.” This was a romantic tale of great interest.
Mrs. Duncan pointed out on the map places of historical interest in this early period of Spanish history.
The table talk embraced the following subjects: Subjugation and Civilization of the Goths; Sertorius; Ulfilas, and the poem entitled “The White Hind of Sertorius.” “What English poet was the author of that poem, was a question posed by one of the ladies.
A new and enjoyable feature of the afternoon’s entertainment was singing by the club of a chorus “Happy and Light” from the “Bohemian Girl.”
Music and Art is the subject for the next meeting, Saturday, Jan, 9th.
Concerning the Glass Factory.
Patience at last ceases to be a virtue in the way the glass factory building is being used and now seems a good and proper time for our good people to get a move on them and do something. We can put them on the track of a concern not now doing business in this city, who will occupy the building inside of sixty days, providing it can be secured, and don’t ask our people to donate the building until they are fully convinced they mean business and are doing it also.
The concern will start with a small force of men and work to a good sized force and when our people are satisfied they can deed the property to them; and it seems as though we ought during the winter to make complete arrangements so that by the 1st day of April there will be music made by running machinery in that part of the city. What say you fellow citizens, shall we get a move on or not? It is certainly time for action.
Nothing definite can be done concerning the rebuilding of the Grand Haven-Spring Lake bridge, until the Grand Haven Bridge Co., who own the bridge, have been given 20 day’s notice. If then they do not decide to rebuild the bridge, action will be taken by the Board of Supervisors, which will necessitate an extra session of that body.
In turning off the gas jets at the M. E. church Sunday night, one of them was turned too far and during the interval between that time and Tuesday morning 1,000 feet of gas escaped. W. A. Clark went to the church Tuesday morning and the effect of the gas made him sick and he has since been confined to his home. The gas damaged the books considerably.
GRAND HAVEN IN 1891.
Below we print in condensed form the most important happenings in this city and in which this city was concerned during the year just passed.
JANUARY.
5—Board of Supervisors met at Court House.
9—Wm. Campbell severely hurt at Bloecker’s shop. Roland Bahre drowned while skating on thin ice near the river bend. Machinery arrived for the since defunct glass works.
18—The case of the People vs. Michael Millman for attempt to kill his wife at Agnew came up before circuit court.
19—Marriage of Mr. Geo. Angell and Mrs. Clara B. Mower at Episcopal church.
FEBRUARY.
1—Confirmation services at St. John’s Episcopal church.
20—Residence of John Nesser on Howard street burns. Republican county convention.
21—Western Social Conference meets at Second Reformed church.
24—Democratic convention at Court House.
26—August Grunst, yardman at the D., G. H. M. yards, badly hurt by falling off car.
MARCH.
6—Glass factory closed by Sheriff Vaupell on four attachments.
9—Village election at Spring Lake, Republicans successful.
20—Mrs. J. Stoner suffers a stroke of apoplexy.
28—Dr. Briggs dies suddenly at Ludington.
APRIL.
1—S. P. Ricker dies suddenly. Democratic city convention. Ira Robinson dies.
3—Republican city convention. Joseph Finch, an old resident of Spring Lake, dies.
6—City election; D. Cutler elected mayor by 54 majority.
7—Steamer Racine comes in from Chicago on the first trip.
13—Death of Frank Hidde.
14—Residence owned by J. D. Duursema, corner of Washington and Seventh street burns. Life Saving Crew begin duty.
19—Steamer Wisconsin makes her first regular trip of the season.
20—Congressman Melbourne H. Ford dies suddenly.
24—Asst. Postmaster and Mrs. C. N. Dickenson celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary.
25—Residence of R. W. Duncan badly burned.
27—Co F. inspected by General Lathrop.
MAY.
4—Old cutter works office building burned.
5—Steamer Mary A. Boyce left on her first trip of the season.
16—Heaviest frost of the season known in many years.
17—Mrs. H. Hopkins of Spring Lake died at Lansing.
22—Vessel comes in for the last Grand Haven lumber.
23—Steamer Atlanta left Cleveland to take her place on the Chicago-Grand Haven route.
24—L. J. Mulder’s residence badly damaged by fire.
28—Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Danhof celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary.
30—Memorial day observed in a fitting manner.
JUNE.
1—Ottawa Game Protection Association organized at the Opera House. Rev. J. Lamar and Miss Anna Everts married.
3—Schooner Lena Behm went on the beach at Grosse Point.
11—Breaking of the ground for the new Akeley Institute building witnessed by a large number of citizens.
12—Judge Arnold taken seriously ill at the Norris House.
17—School exhibit from this date to the 20th.
19—A Mr. Johnson of Grand Rapids drowned while boating on Spring Lake.
23—Grand musicale at Akeley Institute.
24—Commencement exercises of Akeley college students.
25— Commencement exercises of city schools.
27—Marriage of Mr. Chas. Gill to Miss hart.
JULY.
8—Upper freight house and 17 freight cars burned. Steamer Milwaukee makes run of 320 miles in 24 hours.
15—Co. F. leave for encampment at Witmore Lake.
16—Death of Henry Griffin, one of Ottawa county’s earliest pioneers. An unknown woman attempts suicide on the City of Milwaukee when eight miles from Milwaukee.
23—Johannes Fisher celebrates his 90th birthday.
25—Geo. E. Hubbard dies suddenly at Phoenix, Arizona.
30—John W. Goddard, an old resident of the county, and a veteran of the Mexican war, dies at his home in Robinson.
AUGUST.
2—Funeral of Geo. E. Hubbard. Residence of L. Stickney of Grand Haven township burglarized.
4—Ezra Adams killed by falling on a circular saw in mill in Robinson.
6—A barn belonging to Geo. Aiken in Grand Haven township burned by incendiaries.
7—Challenge Corn Planter employees have a picnic at the park.
11—Marriage of Chas. H. Lilley and Miss Ella B. Finley.
15—Bloecker’s foundry employees hold a picnic. Frank Scanlan, of the tug Frank Edwards, severely scalded by falling into a tank of lye and water.
18—Corner stone of the Akeley annex laid with appropriate ceremonies. James Safford lost an arm at Bloecker’s foundry.
22—Mr. and Mrs. Chas Boyden celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary.
26—W. H. Dubee of Ripon, Wis., and Miss Marion VanderVeen wedded.
27—Wedding of Mr. G. A. DeHaan and Miss Catherine Poel.
30—S. Silas Kilbourn & Co.’s kit factory burned.
SEPTEMBER.
2—Cutler House opened. Marriage of S. C. Emmet and Miss Pauline VanToll.
3—Marriage of Mr. Nat Robbins and Miss Esther Savidge in Spring Lake.
6—Capt. And Mrs. S. C. Glover celebrated the 25th anniversary of their marriage at the Norris.
8—Death of Cornelius Barns in Minneapolis.
9—Thomas Savidge’s 3 year old colt, Geo. St. Clair, trots a mile in 2:20¼ at Sturgis.
12—A. M. Coffee of Spring lake run into by a D. & M.train and seriously injured. Mr. M. T. Cooper of Grand Rapids drowns just off the piers.
16—People’s party held their convention at the Cutler House. Formal opening of the Cutler House.
21—Death of Mrs. Belle Johnson of Ferrysburg.
22—The revenue cutter, Andy Johnson; with Senator Stockbridge and other officials inspect the harbor and river.
25—Good Templars of Kent, Muskegon and Ottawa counties hold their quarterly session in this city.
26—peter Fisher, the victim of a brutal assault by unknown persons.
OCTOBER.
2—Republican county convention at Opera House. Democratic convention at Court House.
8—Grand river classis of the Reformed church met here.
12—Grand celebration of German Day in this city.
15—Heavy sea on Lake Michigan.
16—Steamer Wisconsin runs into a yawl boat containing two sailors from the schooner Hunter Savidge and killing a Swede named Hansen.
20—Marriage of Mr. Peter Klaver to Miss Dean Boer, and Mr. Wm. H. Campbell to Miss Viola Eames.
26—Steamer Atlanta made her last trip of the season. Ottawa Co. S. S. Association meet in Spring Lake.
27—Peter Klein of Milwaukee commits suicide by drowning in Spring Lake.
29—Mrs. Capt. Mansfield injured at Sturgis by being thrown from a buggy.
31—Heaviest storm of the year on lake Michigan; 16 vessels come into port for shelter.
NOVEMBER.
4—Stephen L. Lowing dies at his home in Allendale.
6—Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Mieras entertain many of their friends, the occasion being their 13th wedding anniversary.
9—Senator Stockbridge, Cong. Belknap and others ride down the river on an inspection tour. City of Milwaukee badly scorched.
10—LeFabre & Meyers shoe store burglarized.
12—Father O’Conner takes charge of this parish. Death of Miss Lizzie Cleary.
18—Schooner Ellen Stevenson wrecked just off north pier. Dan Garlick of this city dies by asphyxiation in a Benton Harbor hotel.
24—Electric lights first turned on.
DECEMBER.
3—Death of Mrs. Wm. Irons. Wind makes total wreck of the Spring Lake toll bridge.
8—Death of Antony Hobeke, an old citizen.
10—Congressman Belknap introduces a bill for a public building at Grand Haven.
12—Mysterious disappearance of Jay Barnes.
13—Steamers City of Fremont and Fountain City arrive for first time.
15—Samuel Lilley, father of Henry and Francis Lilley, died at the home of the latter in Grand Rapids.
19—Tug Kaiser Wilhelm sinks on Spring Lake.
20—Death of Joseph McSauba, one of the oldest residents of Western Michigan.
24—Mr. B. Hatch of Lamont and Miss Addie Walkley of the city wedded.
25—Gerrit VanWestriensen dies suddenly in his home.
26—Central School slightly burned; the work of incendiaries.
29—Death of Mrs. Geo. Parks. Installation of Rev. DeBruyn.
30—Marriage of Fred Jonker and Miss Annie Ver Hoeks.
Fred Jonker and wife have gone to keeping house in the rooms over the Bee Hive on Washington street.
We expect soon to offer our readers something definite concerning plans for the placing of a manufacturing business in the glass factory building.
The Grand Rapids Democrat has contracted a habit of clipping news word for word from the EVENING TRIBUNE without giving credit, which is quite unbecoming the “greatest daily in Michigan.”
Geo. Bennett has engaged the services of Herbert Allen, a first class barber and formerly of this city. Herb has taken charge of his chair and is in readiness to greet his old customers.
The D., G. H. & M. freight hands have received notice that beginning next Monday their wages will be reduced from 20 cents to 15 cents per hour.
Capt. A. VanToll has been spending several weeks and $500 in money repairing and improving his tug, the Geo. Stickney. The captain no doubt anticipates, with many others, a lively business in his line when navigation opens in the spring, and proposes to have his neat little craft in readiness to compete with the best of them.
Clerk White issued 243 marriage licenses last year, and one thus far this year.
Sleighing good.
Ice crop will be a large one, and of good quality this winter.
Freight handling on our docks has been lively during the week.
Henry Bloecker’s machine shop is doing a lively business now days.
This weather is good for lumbering and is being improved at a great rate.
The travel over the Spring Lake bridge is very large.
Have a little respect for yourself and clean off your sidewalks.
The grip has got the man that has been proclaiming for past three years that we were going to have no more winter.
Our wood market is daily well stocked with wood for which there appears to be a good demand.
The new shaft for the city pump arrived yesterday and was put in place by Bloecker & Co.
The kids of the city were out in force last night and took deep interest in the Engineer’s ball.
The snow has not yet delayed trains running into this city to any great extent.
The repairs at central school building are being pushed in a lively manner.
Duncan Robertson’s ship yard appears to furnish most of our ship carpenters with work this winter.
The grip has laid hands on two of the office force of the TRIBUNE and we are running short handed today.
No toll bridge this year. We want free and unrestricted trade with our neighbors over the river.
How many have kept the New Year’s pledge they made to be better and wiser men and women?
The annual balancing of books by our merchants show a good gain and prosperous year’s business.
VerBerkmoes and Steveling have completed the Kilbourne & Co.’s factory and saw mill to the entire satisfaction of all concerned.
The year 1892 ought to be one of the most prosperous this city has ever had for growth and business. Work and grit will bring it about.
Some of our best citizens have been in the hands of the grip lately and we rejoice to hear that they are all on the gain.
During the year 1892, Grand Haven ought to have a $15,000 Opera House erected. Will we get it? There is a good many of our citizens who will take 50 or 100 dollars stock in it.
During the past six months the owner of a desirable vacant lot in this city has had four chances to sell at an advance on the price he paid for it. This don’t look as though Grand Haven was going backwards.
Jacobus DeSpelder will celebrate his 76th birthday today with his wife and son Johnie, who celebrated his 56th birthday Sept. 14th. Mr. DeSpelder’s one of the men who, apparently never grow old.
Saturday night.—Tomorrow all good people will be in church and what a blessed thing it is that we have one day in seven when the trials and disappointments of six days can be laid aside and be forgotten and rest be found.
The Herald advocates giving the Electric Plant a chance to get a move on them and we believe every man in the city favors just that thing and when they give us light every night and all night and every light going (not half out) there will be no fault found by any one.
Before many months there will be music in the air and the politician will be getting his work and the office seeker will be laboring hard to make you think he is an awful good fellow, and our advice dear reader is not to believe all they say for their smiles and hand shakes will only continue during the year.
Fifteen loads of wood, directly after each other, were seen to come in this morning from the rural district.
Prof. W. F. Foster, the great weather prognosticator, predicts the next cold wave to be due in Michigan about Jan, 20th.
At the next school census, the 4th ward will show the largest increase of any ward in the city, so a prominent real estate man claims.
Capt. John Prindville sold the steamer DePere for the Goodrich Co. to the Hon. S. B. Grummond of Detroit, last Thursday; consideration $20,000.
The hands at the D., G. H. & M. freight house were requested to work Sunday. About a hundred of them failed to comply and upon going to work this morning, were informed that their services were no longer needed.
Mr. H. D. Van Asmus and M. R. Church, of Grand Rapids, are at work soliciting subscription for the flat boat line between here and Grand Rapids. As soon as the necessary amount has been raised Craig Shipping Co., of Toledo, will commence building the boat.
That notable railroad builder, Jerry Boynton, of Grand Rapids, who lately traversed the length of the old Michigan & Ohio bed from Jenison to this city making calculations, estimates and not always successful attempts against marauding newspaper reporters, is in the city again today.
F. & A. M. Memorial Services.
The most interesting event which has occurred in Masonic circles in this city for some time, was the Geo. E. Hubbard memorial services Saturday night, and the presentation by Mrs. Geo. E. Hubbard, and the acceptance and grateful acknowledgement by the Lodge, of a life like portrait of her deceased husband.
The picture is very fine and life like, nearly life size, and enclosed in an elegant gold leaf frame, and will not be not only an ornament to the Lodge, but will always be a pleasant reminder of the deceased, dearly beloved member of the fraternity. The impressive services were ably conducted, and were in every respect a success, eminently befitting the occasion.
The meeting was opened by the Master, Chas C. Findley, who called the Past Masters to seats on the platform. Rev. Bennett, of the M. E. church offered prayer, which was followed by an anthem from the choir, “By the waters of Babylon we sat down and wept when we remembered thee O’ Zion!” The presentation speech, on behalf of Mrs. Hubbard, was made by David E. Rose, of Chicago, and was carefully prepared and delivered.
An able response and acceptance of the picture on behalf of the Lodge, was made by Mr. Robert Finch.
The choir then gave a selection which was followed by the reading of letters of regret from Mr. H. E. Elkington, of Chicago; and Hon. H. H. Holt, of Muskegon. Interesting addresses were also made by Messrs. Chas. T. Pagelson, W. J. H. Sanders, Geo. D. Turner, Mark Burd, A. McKinsey, Chas. Dickenson and H. Howe, of Spring Lake.
The choir sang “Auld Lang Syne” and the services closed with a benediction by the chaplain.
A unanimous vote of thanks were tendered the choir from the Second Reformed church for the excellent singing furnished and which added largely to the interest of the meeting.
The success of the services was largely due to the efforts of the committee of arrangements comprising W. J. H. Sanders, Wm. Harper, Chas. C. Findley, S. Dickenson, Wm G. Wolfe, Mark Burd and Harry Oaks.
A dispatch was received by Mr. James Barnes this forenoon without signature requesting $20 to be sent to a certain address in Detroit. Mr. Barns telegraphed back to the police of that city to get a description of the person, thinking it may be his son Jay. Nothing further has as yet been heard.
Woman’s Club.
ART AND MUSIC.
A very interesting paper and one which showed much originality was read by Miss Stickney, on the subject of “Greek Art.”
“Art in Popular Education,” a reading by Mrs. Gibbs, was an interesting discussion of the subject of art in its bearings upon the education and life of the people.
A paper on “The Age of Pericles” by Miss Sheldon was an excellent review of this period distinguished by works of its great sculptors and architects.
After singing by the club, Miss Auketel read a paper entitled “Two great German Musicians, born at the close of the Seventeenth Century.” This was an interesting sketch of the lives of Bach and Handel, showing the character of the works of each.
A talk on “University Extension” was participated in by Mesdames, Cummings, Savidge, Parish, Duncan and Macfie.
It is to be regretted that, owing to the absence of members to whom the papers were assigned, three papers on the subject of music were omitted.
The subject for the next meeting, Saturday, Jan, 16th, is “American Literature.”
M. M. Drake, manager of the Delaware & Lackawanna line steamers, spent a day in Milwaukee last week and while there made inquiries concerning the depth of water at the entrance to various east shore harbors, with the view of ascertaining the most available terminal for the proposed transit line of steamers out of Kewaunee. While Frankfort appeared to be his choice, reports of the siage of water on the bar there were of such a highly unfavorable character as to preclude its selection. Grand Haven was also considered, but limited car service afforded at that point proved a great stumbling block. Manistee, therefore, must be chosen, temporarily at least, for the new line, and even there the water over the bar outside of the harbor piers is so shoal as to render ingress or egress extremely dangerous in ordinary rough weather. Another impression—a mistaken one—has prevailed here that the Flint & Pere Marquette railway, whose terminus is at Ludington, was under the control of the Delaware & Lackawanna Railway Company. The fact is, that this important eastern outlet passed into the hands of the Vanderbilts last season and now forms a portion of the New York Central system. The change froze the Delaware $ Lackawanna out completely. Hence the extension of the Green Bay & Winona railway to Kewaunee and the establishment of a line of steamers out of that port as an auxiliary for handling a share of the immense winter movement of flour, etc., eastward, has become necessary. The railroad line is in running order, and according to latest advices from Manistee, everything will soon be in readiness for the proposed steamer line. The Lackawanna railway connections out of Manistee will be the Manistee & Northeastern and the Detroit, Lansing and Northern.—Marine Review.
Shovel off your walks.
Sleighing parties are in order. Make pleasure ere the sun shines.
Merchants report a largely increased business for this season over last year.
A switchman’s strike over the whole system of the C. & W. M. Ry. is threatened, caused by a lock out of employees.
Leap year is already beginning to bear evidence of fruitfulness. A leap-year sleighing party to attend a leap-year party at Muskegon tomorrow night, is being made up.
The Grand Rapids Horseman’s Association has arranged plans for the coming campaign. $50,000 in stakes and purses will be hung up for the “Furniture City” meeting to be held on August 9, 11, 12 and 13.
We here considerably favorable comment on the present condition of the city water. The water is excellent, as pure and clear as crystal, and the pumping service, also for fire service, is as good as could be desired.
Circuit court opened yesterday and closed today, the shortest session which has occurred for some time. No case on the calendar was tried, and the jury was discharged yesterday. The Wiley water works case was adjourned on account of the illness of Judge Howell until Feb. 8.
The Milwaukee & Eastern Transportation Co.’s boats have been taken from this port, and now run to Benton Harbor, though they may be compelled to return here before spring. The additional expense of transferring their freight to Benton Harbor from this port has been about $200 per day. The last of the freight men on this line went to Benton Harbor this afternoon.
Muskegon, Grand Haven and Battle Creek are pretty sure to secure appropriations for public buildings at the present congressional session. The senate committee on public buildings and grounds has decided to report favorably all the bills that passed by the senate, but failed of passage in the house, giving appropriations for public buildings.—Detroit Journal.
The stockholders of the Grand Haven Furniture Co. were so well pleased with the year’s business and management of the same, that at the annual meeting in the city hall last evening, all of the old directors were re-elected by very large majorities. The directors are S. H. Boyce, Geo. W. McBride, Geo. D. Turner, C. Boss, Peter Pell, J. Hazenberg, John Duursema, G. VandenBosch and J. Ball. The directors meet tomorrow night to elect officers.
Concerning the dispatches received yesterday from Detroit purporting to be from Jay Barns, Sheriff Vaupell at 11 o’clock last night received the following message: ”Eber L. Barbier arrested for sending dispatches signed Jay M. Barns. Send brother tonight. Fraud and forger he may know where Jay is. C. C. Stockweather, Deputy Sup’t of Police.” Geo. Simpson, who went to Detroit last evening, telegraphed Mr. Barns this morning, that if this forger knew anything concerning Jay that it would probably be found out by noon and he would telegraph, but no word has been received.
Len Fisher, of Sand Creek, a former well known resident of this city, was in town today.
Barney Cleveringa has moved into the old city water works building.
The fishermen took up the last of their nets today for the season, which has been a prosperous one.
No change of officers was made at the annual meeting of the Grand Haven Leather Co., last evening.
O. VanderHoef has been kept from his active duties at the city water works by a scalded wrist caused by steam while opening the engine.
Grand Rapids’ furniture show this year beats the record. More buyers and sellers are there this season than ever before. Grand Haven is in it this year.
The cause of no electric light for two nights has been a broken wire in the armature of the dynamo. There will probably be light tonight.
The stockholders of the National Bank of Grand Haven held their annual meeting and election of officers yesterday. The officers remain the same as last year.
An exceedingly merry sleigh riding party of 12 couples left at 2:00 o’clock for a drive to Muskegon, and will return this evening by moonlight, providing of course that the moon shines.
The stockbrokers in the Globe Match Co. met last night and elected directors as follows: H. W. Buswell, S, H, Boyce, J. A. Pfaff, B. W. Parks and Geo. D. Turner. The directors met later and elected the following officers: H. W. Buswell president; S. H. Boyce; vice-president; Geo. D. Turner, secretary and treasurer.
A wrong impression has been made concerning the discharge of men at the D., G. H. & M. freight house Monday. The men who refused to work Sunday last were not discharged permanently, but were refused work at unloading the steamer which some of the men had helped to unload Sunday.
Geo. Simpson returned from Detroit last night and reports nothing new in the case of Jay Barns. E. L. Barbier, arrested for sending the forged dispatch, when asked to explain his conduct, he said he was a friend of E. H. Richardson, shoe dealer at 41 Monroe avenue, and that he occasionally acted as salesman in Richardson’s store. A few days ago a young man came into the store and tried to buy a pair of leggings from him for 15 cents. The stranger said that was all the money he had and Barbier, becoming interested, questioned him about his story, when the young man said he was young Barns and asked Barbier to send the dispatch to his father for money. Detective Muler produced the original copy of the dispatch filed in the Detroit office and asked Barbier if that was the writing of the man who asked him to send the dispatch. Barbier said it was. Mr. Simpson says the writing is not at all like Jay’s. The Detroit police officials have interested themselves very much in the case, which is highly appreciated by the relatives here. The forger will be punished to the full extent of the law, and if he knows anything of Jay, will no doubt soon be made to disclose it.
Fred D. Brown, of Hudson, is in the city today. Mr. Brown is in every respect a first class photographer, and will open a studio here if a suitable building can be procured. He is brother of Dr. Brown, former … of Spring Lake.
Mr. Barns Gets a Postal Card.
The only thing new in the case of Jay Barns, is the receipt by Mrs. Barns, of a postal card from a woman in Detroit, saying herself Mrs. Smith, who claims to have seen Jay clerking in a shoe store in Detroit one night, she having bought a pair of child’s over shoes of him. She recognized him by his picture published in the Detroit News. The address given of the store is 41 Monroe street, the same name as that in which the forger Barbier claims to have worked and where he saw Jay. This card would seem to be, on the face of it, the work of the man Barbier, or his accomplice. It has been sent to the chief of police in Detroit.
Another Old Resident Gone.
John Zietlow, one of the oldest residents of this city, died very suddenly last evening while lying on a couch, at his home on 3rd St. He had been ailing and feeble for some time, but was at church Sunday morning and evening, and out of doors yesterday and was not believed to be in a dangerous condition.
The deceased was 75 years of age, and for 34 years had been a resident of Grand Haven. He learned the fishing trade in the old country, and after coming to America pursued the fishing business in Milwaukee for two years, when he came to Grand Haven and was one of the first to start the fishing business on this shore of the lake.
He was a respected citizen, a man of good character, and leaves a wife and three sons, all residents of this city. He was the owner of the fish tug Frank Edward, and leaves his wife and sons in comfortable circumstances.
From Washington.
Representative Belknap called on Gen. Casey, the chief of engineers, at the War Department, Wednesday, and had an extended conference with regard to the proposed improvement of the Grand river. Gen. Casey stated that the department would have made an early report to congress on the matter but for the delay incident to the preparation of the report of Col. Ludlow, the local engineer in charge. The office work on survey has been heavier than was anticipated; hence the delay in forwarding the report to the department. Capt. Belknap is particularly desirous that the report be in Gen. Casey’s hands at the earliest possible date, for the reason that the committee on rivers and harbors had decided that no hearing will be given to anyone after Feb. 10. A resolution has been adopted to grant not more than five minutes to any congressman who desires to speak on the subject, but Mr. Belknap’s intimate knowledge of the matter he has in charge of would enable him to condense his facts and make a strong statement before the committee in the time allotted to him. It will be necessary, however, to secure the consent of the house to a special reference of Col. Ludlow’s report to the committee, as the regular report of the chief of engineers has already been sent in. Capt. Belknap has been notified by the committee on public building and grounds that he will be afforded an opportunity today to address the committee in the interest of the Grand Haven public building bill, the introduction of which has already been reported. Mr. Belknap is confident that he necessities of the public service will be apparent to the committee and that a favorable report will be made at an early date.
It was 6 degrees below zero at Milwaukee last night and 13 degrees above at Grand Haven. Truly, this is a good winter resort.
The Columbus street pupils and teachers gave Miss Gertrude Pellegrom a surprise party at her home last evening, which was enjoyed by all, especially the little ones.
Wm. VanScheivan has purchased the meat market on the corner of 4th and Fulton streets, formerly owned by John Bottje and is now dealing out the choicest meats from the People’s Market. Will is a butcher of considerable experience having formerly worked in some of the best markets in this city and Grand Rapids.
The senate committee of public building and grounds decided that the only bills they would favorably report would be those bills that passed the senate last congress. This decision by the senate is of vast importance to Grand Haven, and displays the good judgment of the last council in sending ex-Senator Ferry to Washington, since it was mainly through this instrumentality, and splendid work done then, that Grand Haven’s public building bill was one of those that was passed upon by the last senate, and is again already inline and undoubtedly will pass the senate again this week or early next week. There is no doubt but that the wisdom and forethought of the work and expenditures made for this purpose last year are now seen by our citizens and highly appreciated.
The German Workingman’s Society’s masquerade took place at the Opera House last evening and proved a grand success. A hundred couples at least took part. Wurzburg’s Orchestra of Grand Rapids furnished the music.
Skate at the rink tonight.
There are 27 inmates at the county poor house.
A stock company has been formed at Sturgeon Bay, Wis., to run a steam ice boat between that place and Green Bay via Menominee.
Bert VanDongen was driving up to one of the doors in Akeley College this morning when the cutter upset and the horse started to run, but was stopped before doing any damage.
A large number of the men who were employed in handling freight on the steamers of Fremont and Fountain City are now uttering loud wails of complaint, on account of wages which they claim are due them, and that suit will be commenced unless paid in a short time
S. VerHoeks has let the job for filling his ice house. Ice is ten inches thick.
In regard to the letter received by Mr. James Barns a few days ago signed by a Mrs. Smith, Detroit, stating that she had seen Jay Barns clerking in Richardson’s shoe store in that city the police have made thorough inquiry. Mr. Richardson, the proprietor of the store, stated that he had no new clerks lately but that one of his clerks bears a somewhat close resemblance to Jay. The police are not inclined to the belief but think that some one interested in Barbier wrote the letter.
Public Building.
A Washington dispatch to the Grand Rapids Democrat has the following to say in regard to a Federal building here:
Representative Belknap has prepared a statement concerning the public building at Grand Haven, which he will submit to the committee on public buildings and grounds at its session tomorrow. The statement covers the ground fully and says that the uses to which the Grand Haven public building will be put are manifold. In the first place it will be a customs house for the district of Michigan, embracing the entire east shore of Lake Michigan from the straits to the Indiana boundary line, a distance of more than 350 miles, with ten sub-posts and deputies. It will also embrace the chief offices of the life-saving station for the One Hundred and Tenth district, superintending twenty-four stations. In it will be located the office of the chief supervising weather office. An important department to be sheltered by the building will be the office e of the United States engineer in charge of all harbors on the east shore, numbering thirty, as well as the office of the local engineer in immediate charge of the Grand Haven harbor. The superintendent of the light houses on the east shore and the islands will also have an office in the building. The local inspector of hulls and of all steam vessels for the district, as well as the inspector of boilers will have offices there. The surgeon of the marine hospital service will be accommodated.
One of the principal uses to which the building will be put will be the accommodation of the post office for the city of Grand Haven. The government now pays excessive rentals for all the offices names, in buildings altogether of wood and of limited capacity, but at present the best procurable. For lack of adequate room the rapidly accumulating papers, files and records are unavoidably piled and packed and in such a state as to be more or less exposed to the elements and without fire protection. Grand Haven is the only harbor of refuge on the east shore. It has two large ship yards. It is the only dry-dock on that shore and builds yearly numbers of the largest class of steamers and sail vessels. The report of the supervising architect of Treasury Department of Feb. 27, 1890, states that data in his office show the needs of the government service in said city and the requirements of the public buildings for said purposes and that within the limit of $100,000 a building affording proper accommodation for the needed government offices can be erected.
The death rate among children is increasingly alarming.
Sheriff Vaupel took a vagrant to the Detroit House of Correction this morning.
Died, Saturday afternoon, the six months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harm Roosien of Ferry St.
Thomas Smith and Frank Withey were given ten days in jail by Justice Reynolds Saturday for vagrancy.
Several rooms in the Central Building including the high school were dismissed this morning on account of the cold.
A tramp tanner claiming he had walked from Holland and having no money wherewith to get board was given lodging in the county jail last night.
Congressman Belknap has very strongly and clearly presented the claims of Grand Haven for a public building. There is not a a city in Michigan where a government building is more needed than at Grand Haven.—Grand Rapids Press.
Mr. Will Rosie, the well known wheelsman of the Roanoke met with quite an exciting adventure Saturday afternoon. A wounded seagull was seen flapping around on the ice in the middle of the river just opposite the dock and Will started out to capture it. He had just got started when the ice gave way, but he was soon rescued by the crew of the Roanoke, who threw a rope to him and pulled him ashore.
Akeley Institute is to be congratulated upon having secured Mr. Frances Campbell of Grand Rapids as teacher of vocal music. Mr. Campbell is known to many by the splendid reputation which he has won, and by the magnificent voice with which nature has endowed him. The opportunity for vocal music thus offered is exceptional, as Mr. Campbell has studied under the American masters and also in Italy. Mr. Campbell will begin his class on Thursday of this week in Blanche hall.
An infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Issac Dekker died yesterday.
(Historical Note: A number of infant, child and some adult deaths have been omitted from this compilation.)
In Saturdays TRIBUNE we made mention of what promised to be a lively runaway near Akeley College. Instead of Bert VanDongen is should have read Will VanWermor as driver of the lively rig.
James Barns received a letter from Chief of Police Starkweather of Detroit today stating that Barbier the swindler who had tried to obtain money under the name Jay Barns had been let go. The fellow was a well known criminal and it would have given them much pleasure to prosecute him, but as the cost to Wayne county to obtain witnesses from so far a distance would have been very great, the case was dismissed.
AN OLD PIONEER DEAD.
JOHN W. BARNS PASSED PEACEFULLY AWAY LAST EVENING.
John W. Barns, one of our best known and highly respected citizens, died at this home in the 4th ward at 7:00 o’clock last evening after a short illness with influenza.
Mr. Barns was born in Stowe, Vt., April 10, 1823. His father Jacob Barns moved to Grand Rapids with his family in 1836. In the spring of 1845 John W. and his brother James moved to this city, where they have since resided.
In 1851 Mr. Barns and Wm. N. Angell embarked in the newspaper business, publishing the Grand River Times, the first number being dated July 2nd of that year, and the office of publication in Griffin’s building. In 1857 the Times was bought by Eastman & Co., and was published at Eastmanville,.A. T. Valentine being editor. Eastmanville at this time was making a strong bid for the county seat. December 29, 1859, the first number of the Grand Haven News was published, Barns & Fosha being proprietors. It continued under this management until April, 1860, when James Barns became sole proprietor, publishing it until July 17, 1876, when it was sold to DeLong and Mills.
After this date he was engaged with his brother James in the furniture business. A few years ago he suffered a severe stroke of paralysis, his life being despaired of at the time. From this stroke he never fully recovered, and led a quiet life at home. He served his ward as alderman several terms besides several other offices of trust.
Mr. Barns was held in highest esteem by all with whom he was associated, his life like all work he was connected being clean and upright.
The funeral will take place Wednesday at 2 p.m. from his residence. Rev. R. Lewis conducting the service.
The old driving horse known as “the little racker” died at Spricks livery barn yesterday morning. The horse was about 28 years old but despite its age had taken part in nearly every funeral procession in this city for many years, and was always in demand by ladies for driving on account of its gentleness.
WOMANS CLUB
AMERICAN LITERATURE.
“Incidents in the Life of Washington Irving,’ a reading by Miss Gray, showed that the associations of Irving’s early life, as well as his travels abroad furnished material for his literary work.
“The Developments of American Literature” was an ably written paper by Mrs. Wilkinson, tracing the growth of American Literature through Colonial and Revolutionary periods of history to the National.
Mrs. Robbins, Sr., then read “The Specter Bridegroom” a selection from Irving’s “Sketch Book,” It was much enjoyed.
“Characteristics of Irving’s Writings” was and interesting paper by Mrs. Robbins, Jr.
“How the Town of New Amsterdam arose out of the Mud,” a reading by Miss Smallman, was an example of that rich humor which is one of the chief characteristics of Irving’s writings.
Saturday, Jan. 23rd is “Entertainment Day.”
W. I. Lillie received a new typewriter this morning.
A new set of plungers have been placed in the pump at the city water works.
A water pipe in Poel’s tailor shop burst this morning, but was repaired before any damage to speak of was done.
The little hamlet of Agnew will be awakened this evening by a large sleighing party from this city which will go there to spend the evening with Mr. and Mrs. Elbridge Wall. That well known conductor of sleighing parties, Henry Bolt, will be at the helm to guide the party through the intervening woods. On their return, which will be sometime tomorrow morning, pan cakes and maple syrup will be served on board to keep the party warm.
Dorr Skeels, civil engineer, and party, have just completed a line of levels from a point on the Grandville avenue toll road near the road house about three miles from town, to the city of Grand Haven. The route followed is the old Michigan & Ohio roadbed, which was surveyed on many years ago and partially graded. The work was done for Jerry Boynton and the Jenisons of Jenisonville, who are the owners in large part of the right of way, and have, it is stated by those in a position to know, already about $40,000 invested in the enterprise. This amount was all put in long ago, and the present work was done with a view to putting the roadbed into such shape that something could be realized in the investment. Mr. Boynton refuses to say by whom he is employed, or what company is back of the work, if any, and claims he is merely acting as agent, with no personal interest whatever in the venture. The profile of the survey shows a very level route which could be utilized as a roadbed at very small expense compared with most routes. It passes through Grandville, Jenisonville, and one village in Ottawa county, and would make an excellent freight route. The only difficulties to be overcome are some swamps in the vicinity of Grand Haven which can be readily drained. Some of the route is now cultivated by small farmers, but most of it is land of no particular value or any other purpose.—Grand Rapids Eagle.
No city ever had too many railroads.
Mrs. Christian J. Cook, an insane woman living in Port Sheldon, was frozen to death last night.
The dispatches received from Chili this morning are more warlike than ever. It is reported that the naval squadrons have been ordered on to Valparaiso.
The Cincinnati & Wabash R. R. took their line of boats from the Milwaukee Grand Haven route on account of a scarcity of freight cars, now the Fountain City has become detained in Benton Harbor on account of the ice and will probably remain there until spring.
The Excelsior Shoe store, down on 3rd street has always had its due proportion of trade, and of late the business has grown to such an extent that its bustling, genial proprietor has decided to add 25 feet to his store room thus just doubling his present capacity. The business not only warrants, but necessitates the improvement and the EVENING TRIBUNE congratulates. Work has begun.
The Cutler House barber shop was the scene of a lively scrap last night. A man came in and after having his hair cut refused to pay the bill claiming he had paid before cutting. This started a lively little altercation which was stopped by Wm. Andres arresting the fellow. Before Justice Pagelson this morning he said he resided in Chicago, but was visiting his relatives in Robinson, and after paying a fine was released.
Representative Belknap has received from the engineers engaged in completing the survey of Grand river some details of the information which Col. Ludlow’s final report will contain.
According to the information which Captain Belknap has received, the survey will call for a channel from Grand Rapids to Grand Haven of from six to eight feet in depth. Whether this will be secured by dredging or the construction of wing dams is not stated. The total estimated cost of the improvement will be $500,000.
In speaking of the outlook Captain Belknap said yesterday: “The delay in completing the local engineer’s survey has hampered me very much. I had secured from Gen. Casey a promise that the matter would be transmitted to congress as soon as possible, and I had expected to secure unanimous consent for its reference to the rivers and harbors committee. The delay of sixty days will prevent this arrangement being carried out, and I shall be obliged to take the matter over to the senate and have it put on as an amendment.
In view of the demand for retrenchment in expenditures, I do not expect we can secure more than enough money in the present river and harbor bill to start the improvement. I shall make my fight for $10,000 and have fair assurances that this amount will be granted.”
The steamer City of Fremont had a wild experience on Lake Michigan Saturday. She had left Milwaukee for St. Joe with a large cargo. As the captain neared the Michigan shore he saw that to put into St. Joe would be foolhardy in such a gale and turned around and steered for Chicago. She was doing well when the valves of her air pump gave out and the big pump which is connected with the engine became of no use. Two hours were required to get the pony pump in shape and by this time the wind was blowing 60 miles an hour and the boat drifted far up the lake. Her decks were covered with ice and when she reached Chicago Sunday afternoon the riggings were stiff. There was 18 inches of water in her hold and her crew looked like an Arctic exploring party. They were worn out, frost bitten and hungry and all of them declared the passage the worst they had ever known.
What became of the snow plow? Some of our sidewalks have needed a visit for several days past.
Talked Railroad.
At 7:30 last evening the council room began to fill and by 8 o’clock about 100 citizens were present. The meeting was called to order by acting Mayor Boyce, and A. S. Kedzie was chosen secretary. The chair called up J. W. Boynton, as he, himself affirmed, is not a fluent public speaker, but he knows how to talk railroads, as well as build them, and he explained, no doubt to the satisfaction of every person present, the possibility and feasibility of the railway project under consideration, the completion of the B. & O. road from this city to Grand Rapids.
Mr. Boynton stated in brief, that the plans of the projectors of the road are that the road shall be entirely independent financially of every other road, but having terminal facilities with the G. R. & L. & W. M., Michigan Central and Lake Shore roads, and necessarily with lines of boats across the lake. The road would connect with a belt line to the leading factories in Grand Rapids, and would run around on the lake front in this city from Highland Park to the Washington street docks, which would secure almost the entire Grand Rapids manufacturer’s western freight traffic, and insure also a large excursion business to our popular parks.
An option has been secured on much of the right of way in this county, and the entire right of way into and from Grand Rapids, to Grandville and Jenison has been secured by Mr. Boynton for his own private enterprise, an electric railway which will be built in the spring, but it could also be used for the Grand Rapids and Grand Haven railway.
Since Mr. Boynton has been in Grand Haven, a delegation has come to see him from Allendale offering to donate the entire right of way through that township.
Ex-Senator Ferry followed Mr. Boynton with an interesting talk indicating his deep faith in the new road, and the necessities for its being built.
After Mr. Ferry’s talk Mr. Boynton paid him the compliment of saying that a trip east and one such talk to capital there would be worth more than $10,000 in money to the project and that he (Mr. Boynton) would gladly pay the expenses of such a trip to New York, when it became necessary to interest eastern capital.
The prime object of this meeting was to get the citizens in our city more deeply interested and to induce them to contribute to the amount, about $5,000 necessary to complete the preliminary work. On motion of Mr. Ferry a committee of 3 was appointed to solicit private subscriptions to such a fund, and Thos. A. parish, John Vaupell and Jacob VanderVeen were appointed as such committee.
The opinion is quite general that the necessary amount will be easily obtained.
The bill appropriating $50,000 for a public building in this city passed the Senate yesterday. It has yet to pass the House. Of the eighteen bills brought up before the Senate yesterday for public buildings only five passed as follows: Deadwood, S. D.; Stillwater, Minn.; Grand Haven, Mich.; Salem, Ore,; and The Dalles, Ore.
Salt thrown on the icy sidewalks will prevent slipping, but it is said that it will ruin cement walks and cause the composition to crumble. Ashes are better for cement walks.
Do not fail to read our free bridge article. It voices what should be the sentiment of every person in Grand Haven. This question has but one side to it, the bridge MUST be free. Nothing else must be considered. The time when action must be taken is fast approaching. Let our business men as a body take hold of it. The bridge must be made free, and decided action only will accomplish it. Who will act first?
Mrs. John Kraai died at her home corner Sixth and Jackson street at 8 o’clock last night after an illness of three weeks. Mrs. Kraai was 43 years old and leaves six children to mourn her loss.
“Colonel” Smith and Henry Bolt will each take a sleigh load of young people to Crockery this evening, “Sharpy” Poel will be one of the party and will probably take along his iron clad suit.
Give us a Free Bridge.
[COMMUNICATED]
Shall we have it? What? Why of course a free bridge. Mr. A. Bilz has furnished some able and interesting articles for the press on this important question and has given many facts and figures and by the way some of them are worth remembering. But the main nut he gives us to crack in his articles is it’s concluding part, “Grand Haven ought to build it!” But of course in this day and age we many men of many minds and will not agree with the gentlemen over the river in his conclusion but do agree with him by an almost unanimous vote and feeling against any more toll bridges. The day of compelling people to pay tribute to get into this city to do business ought to have passed by and as the boys now say when playing marbles and for “keeps” too, we certainly want free trade with farmers and business men of Spring Lake, Crockery and Polkton and we must and will have it. But how are you going to get it is the all important question that comes up and who will build the bridge? Certainly the county ought to not only build this bridge but two more across the Grand river at prominent points, but just as certainly you can say they will not do it. Others say Grand Haven city, Spring Lake, Crockery and Polkton, the most interested towns and cities ought to chip in and the amount for each to pay would be small and would be repaid ten times over in the benefit derived by the inhabitants of the town. This is no doubt correct and true but where do we find any authority for these towns to raise or thus appropriate any money for this purpose. Others say Spring Lake and Grand Haven city ought to build it for they appear to be the ones most benefited by the bridge. Then comes up again an all important question, can you bring a majority of the voters and taxpayers to believe that it is their interest to build it? Hardly! But if these two places want and desire to continue the farmers trading with them they will certainly have to get a move on them for to the certain knowledge of the writer of this article hundreds of teams that formerly brought their produce to these markets even while we had the old toll bridge after and while it was broke down went to Muskegon and sold their produce and done their trading. Merchants and produce buyers can you afford to lose this trade. Not much. The merchants of Grand Haven and Spring Lake are not alone benefiting by this free bridge, but the man who buys hay and produce from the farmers would save more than the paltry sum they would pay in taxes.. The new Electric street R.R. must have a easy and cheap way to get to Spring Lake. If not that point and Highland Park will never grow to be very great or popular places for summer resorters. We also want a drive and we want no toll bridge in the way of it for we would like to show our friends who visit us in the summer that our neighbors over the river have beautiful homes and streets and some mighty lively business men too, and we want to tell them also that some day and that not far off we shall have all these beauties mentioned, (the live business men included as a part of our wide-awake growing city) and we do not want to tell them that we have to pay the toll to get from the 1st to the 8th ward of our city to do business with Alderman Bilz. The old toll bridge died with the old year and for the sake of our business interests, home and children, we should enter a protest in no mild form against its resurrection in any form than a good substantial iron bridge and that free, even should no other way turn out than raising the amount necessary for the purpose by circulating a general subscription paper among liberal citizens of the places most interested.
A bill has been introduced in the House to create a home for aged and infirm seamen.
A petition is being circulated asking the council to send Ex-Senator Ferry to Washington to work in behalf of the passage of the public building in the Houses.
Jacob Baar advocates sending a strong Democratic committee from this city to Washington to work for the passage of the Grand Haven Public Building Bill in the House of Representatives.
John Hessing of Holland is in the city today. Mr. Hessing has been engaged for some time in publishing an illustrated souvenir of Holland and contemplates a similar work in this city.
The steamer Roanoke arrived at 7 o’clock last night with 900 tons of freight and cleared this morning at 8 o’clock.
The Wisconsin started for Milwaukee yesterday afternoon but turned back before going outside on account of the heavy seas, not leaving again until this morning.
The Spring Lake correspondent of the COURIOR JOURNAL has this to say about one of our prominent citizens:
G. W. A. Smith of Grand haven called upon us one day this week. Mr. Smith and wife have been stopping a few days with Mr. Hunter Savidge. We remember Mr. Smith in the earlier events of Spring Lake when he was the life of all the social gatherings, and the hero at Concerts and Exhibitions as the singer who was always welcome and who every one was glad to listen to.
Senator Cullom has presented a resolution in Congress in favor of an appropriation for the building of an iron and steel propeller, costing not less than $175,000 for use on Lake Michigan to replace the revenue cutter Andrew Johnson, substantially worn out. House Bill 552 asks for pensions to be granted to certain officers and enlisted men of the life saving service.
Geo. L. Dailey & Co. of Big Rapids have opened a Candy Store and manufactory in the building next west of Mrs. Sprague’s millinery store.
Unless there shall be some unexpected change in the situation the President will send Congress to-day his message in regard to our relations with Chili, accompanied by the official correspondence on the subject.
This morning’s Grand Rapids Press contained a article by an anonymous correspondent in regard to a new railroad between this city and Grand Rapids. The writer thinks it would be better to have a direct line between Grand Rapids and Grand Haven running 365 days in a year than a flat boat line running only in the season of navigation. This road would have a line of propellers between Grand Haven, Milwaukee and other important ports on the lake which would facilitate an interchange of manufacturing goods between Grand Rapids and the Northwest. The writer concludes with: “We scorn the idea that the manufacturers and shippers of this city shall be hampered and compelled to do business with narrow gauge, flat tub boats down the river.”
If those young men who were parading through the streets yesterday in a beastly intoxicating condition only knew what anguish of feelings their parents suffer over their disgrace they would forevermore swear off.
Woman’s Club Entertainment Day.
The entertainment opened with a piano solo “Ballet music” by Miss Boyden. It was much enjoyed.
“Traumerei” a duet for violin and piano was well rendered by Misses Thompson and Lewis.
Next was a “Talk on Spain” which Mr. Will Savidge had kindly consented to give the ladies in connection with their study of Spanish History. This was a very interesting discourse on the places of interest in Spain visited by Mr. Savidge, Mr. Dwight Cutler and another friend, during their trip abroad.
The Spanish cities visited were Madrid—including a trip to the Escurial—Toledo, Cordova, Seville, Granada—its suburban palace, the Alhambra and Malaga. After giving an excellent description of these cities the speaker referred to means of travel in Spain. Facilities in this direction were lacking; trains were slow and hotels bad. The Spanish people were found to be very attractive and were characterized by their uniform courtesy.
At the close of his discourse, Mr. Savidge was tendered a vote of thanks by the ladies.
A very pleasing solo “Tell Her I Love Her So” was sung by Miss Lucas.
The day’s program concluded with a piano solo “Valse Caprice” Rubenstein, very acceptably rendered by Miss Viola Craw.
Saturday, Jan. 30th, is “Miscellaneous Day.”
GULLS—The gulls are of several species, of which five are described by naturalists. One of these, the herring or silver-headed gull is best known here. It frequents the Atlantic coast and inland waters of the United States. It is a beautiful bird, white as snow, and as it sails around over the water in search of its food, its gyrations are very attractive and beautiful. It is covered with a very heavy coat of down feathers, which makes it appear large and plump, and the inexperienced huntsman pulls the trigger on him fancying he is going to get a prize. But alas! When a lucky shot brings down the bird, it is a like a sack of feathers enclosing a midget. He expected a plump carcass and has caught a flea. He is “GULLED.” He is cheated, deceived, defrauded. He expected a treasure and found his game not worth the powder it cost. But he has learned something, and this may be a necessary part of his education.
If this is true of individuals, it may be also of a community. A company of men, or a city may be “gulled,” deceived, cheated, by specious false pretenses. Grand Haven has had several such experiences. The famous great Erie Iron works has not been forgotten by our citizens. Its agents wanted to stir up the people of Erie, Pa., to increase their capital. Not easily succeeding in this, they came here for help. They would remove this plant to Grand Haven. Our citizens feel in with it, and hailed it as a grand thing, as it would have been if carried out. A company was organized, stock subscribed, officers elected, land purchased for a site, and everything went on smilingly. This alarmed the people of Erie, who rallied, as it was expected they should, the new fat subscriptions were made, and the company stayed there. And we were gulled! The company chuckled, the people of Erie profited and Grand Haven sucked its thumbs.
Another gull caught by this unfortunate city was the famous CUTTER FACTORY. With great flourish of trumpets the company (if there was any company) came here, and were going to supply all Michigan, Illinois, and Wisconsin with these delightful means of winter locomotion, employ hundreds of men and build up a big trade. They enlisted some help from our citizens and vanished—not a cutter being built.
We were gulled again!
Then the GLASS FACTORY came—and went. A large number of our citizens paid ten percent upon their annual tax assessment, a fine building was erected, car loads of machinery and glass came on, and great things were to be done. We listened for the steam whistles that were to start the machinery, but instead, we found the company had no capital, their machinery and glass were attached for debt, and the enterprise stopped before it began!
Let us hope our Electric Light system is not coming into the same category. Events have proved that we are a patient people, but that patience may not last forever.
Dick Verwey has the contract for filling T. W. Kirby’s icehouse.
Washington’s Birthday, Decoration Day, Labor Day and Fourth of July, all fall on Monday this year, and as next New Years and Christmas fall on Sunday they will be celebrated on Monday.
The subscriptions of stock in the boat line that is to navigate the Grand river have been nearly all taken and the Craig Shipbuilding Co., of Toledo, will at once start the work of erecting a boat, and send it to Grand Rapids in parts.
The river is free of ice to-day from the D. & M. freight house down, but this does not deter the sturdy fishermen on the other side from having a supply of ice, and cutting it at their own doors. The method they employ is an ingenious one. Near the south channel bridge a gang of men are employed cutting huge cakes of ice, some of them 200 feet square. These are floated down to the fish shanties and there cut right at their doors. To aid in their rapidity in floating the cakes are towed down by row boats, one man being stationed on the cake to keep the ropes taut.
Looks Like War.
President Harrison’s special message in regard to the Chilean trouble was read yesterday. The galleries of the House were black with spectators in anticipation of the of the message. The message was in printed pamphlet form and was listened to throughout with silent and close attention. In the message President Harrison upholds Minister Egan for his dignity, discretion and courage in time of imminent danger to himself. The document reviews all the evidence relative to the massacre of the American sailors, and vindicates our men from any blame in the matter. One only was found to have been guilty of criminal fault, and that for an act clearly justifiable. It is shown that the police instead of quelling the mob aided them in shooting down and clubbing our seamen.
After summarizing the correspondence between the two nations the president says: “The communications of the Chilean government in relation to the cruel and disastrous attack upon our men, as will appear from correspondence, have not in any degree taken the form of a manly and satisfactory expression of regret, much less of apology. The event was of so serious a character that is the injuries suffered by our men had been wholly the result of accident in a Chilean port the incident was grave enough to have called for some public expression of sympathy and regret from local authorities. It is not enough to say that the affair was inmauntable, for humanity would require that expression, even if required that expression, even if the bating and killing of the men had been justifiable. It is not good enough to say that the incident is regretted coupled with the statement that the affair was not of an unusual character in ports where foreign sailors are accustomed to meet. It is very clear, from the correspondence, that before the receipt of the note calling upon the Chileans for the facts that they had in regard to the matter, the examination was regarded by the police authorities as practically closed. It was, however, re-opened and protracted through a period of two months. We might justly have complained of this unreasonable delay, but in view of the fact the government of Chili is still provisional, and with a disposition to be forbearing and hopeful of friendly termination, I have awaited the report, which has but recently been made.
After the message had been read it was referred in both houses, to the committee on foreign affairs, which went into session at once with closed doors.
The leading men of both parties consider President Harrison’s message as a manly unspoken demand for American rights and honor.
E.P. Ferry’s Latest Enterprise.
The following from a Tacoma Wash. paper, will be of interest to our readers:
Tha Tacoma is still in it, and is likely remain so was evidenced by the filing yesterday (Jan. 7, ’02) in the office of secretary of state, the incorporation papers of the Ferry Lumber Co., of Tacoma, with a capital stock of $500,000. the officers and trustees are Edward P. Ferry, of Park City, Utah, president; Elisha P. Ferry, of Olympia, Was., treasurer; Eben Smith, of Seattle, secretary, and the following trustees: Allen C. Mason, Robert Caithness, F. H. White, Tacoma; W. S. McCormick and R. C. Chambers, of Salt Lake City; Dwight Cutler, of Grand Haven, Mich., and David D. Erwin, of Muskegon, Mich.
Executive Committee—Edward P. Ferry, Allen C. Mason and F. H. White.
Auditing Committee—Thomas B. Wallace, E. E. Caine and Eben Smith.
F. H. White is superintendent of mills and Robert Caithness manager of the company.
Work will commence immediately for the purpose of completing the Ferry mill, which was started on the water front some time ago, some distance this side of the smelter. It will be the third largest mill in Tacoma, having a capacity of 125,000 feet of lumber per day. It will also have a shingle mill attachment. This mill will be used exclusively for sawing cedar logs.
On feature of this corporation is a long cherished plan of E. P. Ferry, president of the company, and that is the dedication of one-tenth of the stock ($50,000, to be placed in the hands of the trustees) for the benefit of the employes of the company, they to share equally with the other stock holders in the profits of the company, in addition to their regular wages. The proportions in which the employes share will be determined by the board of directors hereafter; it may be by length of term of service, or possibly by the position they may hold in the company. Most of the men that are connected with the active work of the company are former employes of Ferry in the lumber operations in Michigan. Robert Caithness, the manager, has been associated with him since 1869, F. H. White, the superintendent of mills, since 1870, and Daniel fish, chief engineer of the company, since 1866, and Cyrus Todd about ten years.
Mr. Ferry has purchased of Allen C. Mason, the Shelton mill property and the Mason County Central railroad. It is stated that other purchases of milling property and timber lands are in view, but nothing definite can at this time be said about that.
The second corporation, filed by the same parties yesterday, is the Puget Sound and Pacific Ocean Railroad company, which is understood will absorb the present Mason County Central railroad, with its terminal facilities. This road is to be eventually pushed through to Gray’s Harbor. Its capital stock is $500,000 and its corporate powers are sufficient to carry out the objects and intentions of the company.
Cornelius Verwey died at 3 o’clock this afternoon. Mr. Verwey was one of the early residents of Grand Haven.
Mrs. Utter’s room in the Central School Building will be ready for occupancy next Monday. This is the room most badly damaged by the fire some four weeks ago.
If those freight handlers of the steamer City of Fremont and Fountain City who were complaining some time ago of not receiving all wages due them. Will call at Nat Robbin’s office they will receive their pay.
Congressman Belknap is making a bold fight to secure all appropriations from the House committee for the improvement of Grand river. Mr. Belknap has had several hearings before the committee for the improvement and has encountered several snags which, however, he thinks he has removed from his pathway. The committee first raised the objection that the Grand river improvement project and as such could not be considered under the retrenchment rule recently adopted. Replying to this objection Mr. Belknap has shown that the improvement was recommended to Congress as long ago as 1837, and that appropriations aggregating $50,000 had been made at different times looking to the completion of a deep water channel. Representative Stephenson has been entrusted with Ludlow’s report of 1890, and is co-operating with Mr. Belknap in the effort to get as large an appropriation as possible.
The EVENING TRIBUNE is not editorially responsible for the sentiment of any communication, which may appear in its columns. An honest expression of opinion or comment from the public is welcome to space in our columns, whether it may, or may not reflect the editorial sentiment of the paper. We are not bound to any political, social, or religousism, but wish to treat all with as much fair mindedness as possible. There will always be “Kickers”, but what one sees to criticize, another will see to commend.
Muskegon feels very sore because Congressman Belknap has succeeded in getting an appropriation of $50,000 for Grand Haven’s public building favorably acted upon in the United States senate, while Congressman Wheeler of the Muskegon district announces that Muskegon does not need a public building.—Grand Rapids Eagle.
No, Muskegon does not feel sore, but disappointed. Certainly this city harbors no sore feelings toward Grand Haven or Congressman Belknap over this matter. But we may be permitted to express a humiliating sense of disappointment over our new congressman who, in comparison with his brother congressman from Michigan, says in effect that Muskegon, the chief city of his district, is a jay town, and is less worthy of a public building than Grand Haven, Ann Arbor, or Alpena.—Muskegon Chronicle.
It has been discovered that the half burned carbons used in the arc electric lights will cut glass.
The Wisconsin cleared for Milwaukee this morning but returned on account of the large amount of ice on the lake.
The electric lamps have been lowered several feet and give a marked improvement in light in those parts of the city where there are many trees.
A 17 months old child of Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Dekker of Seventh street died yesterday. This is the second death in the family within the past few weeks.
Gerrit Ball says he has two of the finest game birds in the state. They are about seven months old and he says he will put them against any bird in the state.
A team of draught horses while crossing the Grand river at Portland broke in and floundered to the bottom with a wagon load of ice. An iceman working near by, dived to the bottom, cut the harnesses and saved the horses.
The Roanoke did not leave Milwaukee this morning on account of the heavy sea.
Henry Bolt’s team broke through the ice this morning on Buswell’s boom, but were saved by cutting the harnesses.
John Boer went to Ferrysburg yesterday to order a boiler and engine with which to run the coffee mill at the “Bee Hive.”
The Koeltz-Seligman suit for assault was before Justice Reynolds this morning and was amicably settled by the defendant paying the cost.
Ed Vander Zalm, Henry Meyer, and Fred Jonker caught some angle worms this morning, with which they went down to tempt the finny tribe of Smith’s Bayou.
John Cook has gone on the road for the firm C. N. Addison & Co. He made Holland yesterday but returned this morning, having forgotten his samples.
The Second reformed church is the recipient of a handsome Turkish rug, gift of Mr. Walter Baker. The word “:Welcome” is beautifully interwoven in the top.
A number of the grocerymen of the city are in favor of early closing and it is probable that soon all will agree to remain closed after six o’clock excepting Saturday night.
A sleighing party of eighteen Muskegonites invaded the home of Mr. Jacob Baar, Grand Haven, on Tuesday evening, and report a jolly journey and a good time.—Muskegon Chronicle.
It transpires that Gerrit Ball is not the owner of the two game birds mentioned in last evening’s TRIBUNE. As we now understand it, the two birds claim allegiance to a brother of Mr. Ball’s. But whoever they belong to, we assume that they are good ones and that there are those who are willing to back this assertion.
All of our merchants were familiar with popular Charley Mclain, traveling salesman for Bell, Bernhardt & Putnam, and who made this town every two weeks. Charley, big and robust, a monument, seemingly of health and strength, was late victim of pneumonia at his home in Grand Rapids.
The fifth annual business meeting of the Grand Haven City Band was held last evening at the band hall. The following officers were elected: Pres. G. A. Van Westrienen; Vice pres. W. Wolner; Sec. Frank Buston; Treasurer, and Business Manager, Martin Vyn; board of Directors, A. Van Westrienen, W. Woner, F. Buxton, J. M. Lockie and John Van Dongen.
Ice cutters should remember that in cutting ice, a neglect to properly erect danger signals at or near the place where they are cutting, makes it a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $100 or 90 days in jail. Section 1 of act No. 100, laws of 1887, says: “It shall be the duty of any person or persons who are, of who, may hereafter be, engaged in the procuring of ice from any of the streams or lakes of this state, to erect or cause to be erected, place, or cause to be placed, at or near all places where they shall be cutting ice, suitable danger signals.”
WM. BALGOOYEN.
Wm. Balgooyen, died at 4:30 this morning, at the home of his daughter Mrs. M. VanDoorne, in Grand Haven township, aged 78 years. He was born Jan. 3d, 1814, in the Netherlands and settled in Grand Haven 25 years ago. He leaves six children, three sons and three daughters, all residents of this city except S. Balgooyen, who lives in Holland. The funeral will be announced later.
Clerk White is busy these days making out sub-poenas on delinquent tax payers.
Archie MacDonald is making pigeon holes for use in the government boiler inspector’s offices.
Our citizens should wake up to the importance of the new railroad project. Mr. J. W. Boynton, who is here in its interest, has no equal as a railroad builder in the United States.
Seymour Baar, son of Jacob Baar, is now the proud possessor of a handsome goat.
Our citizens question what the committee appointed by the common council are doing in behalf of the new railroad project. Let Grand Haven put her best foot forward.
Second street hill is in good condition for coasting to-day, and the youth of the city have taken advantage of it by congregating there with their sleds and “bobs.”
The C. & W. M. and D. L. & N. railroads show much larger increases over 1890 than many older roads, quite largely attributable to their wide awake officers.