Grand Haven, Mich. January 1893
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Principal Events in this City in the Past Year.
Jan. 3―Week of prayer.
8―Marine Engineer’s Ball.
9―G. E. Hubbard Memorial at Masonic Hall.
11―E. L. Barber of Detroit forges Jay Barn’s name. M. & E. Transit Co’s boats taken from Gr’d Haven.
12―Globe Match Co. elect officers. Death of John Zietlow.
15―Farmer’s Alliance Festival at Peach Plains.
17―Death of John W. Barns.
18―Co. F Banquet to F. W. Kelley.
20―Marriage of Capt. R. VanderHoef. Railroad meeting at City Hall. Bill for $50,000 for Public Building passed the Senate.
21―Death of Mrs. VanderHart.
27―Death of C. Verway.
29―Wm. Balgooyen dies.
Feb.1―Steamer Roanoke brings in 1154 tons; biggest load of the season.
3―Death of Mrs. John Wiles.
4―Berlin farmer buries his daughter under suspicious circumstances.
7―Death of little Nellie DeSpelder.
9―Roanoke fast in the ice off the piers.
11―Death of Mrs. John Pennoyer.
12―Death of D. J. Duersema. Y M S C Masquerade.
13―Death of J. Van Dyke.
14―Death of Jennie VanderMeiden.
15―German Working Men elect officers.
23―Death of Mrs. John Verknyl.
24―Quiet Day observed in St. John’s church.
28―Apostle Trowbridge creates excitement in county jail.
29―St. Patrick’s church fair and supper.
March 2―Death of Mrs. D. Cutler in California.
5―Death of Alida Albers.
8―A steam launch arrives from Grand Rapids. Experience no ice.
9―Ex-sheriff Woltman dies at Holland.
11―Barn and sheds of P. Roosien burned.
14―Asa Reynolds drops dead on the street.
15―Highland Park fair and supper.
22―Democratic Congress.
23―Death of Mrs. G. F. Mulder. Death of J. H. Newcomb of Spring Lake.
24―The Richmond Endowment bestowed on Akeley College. Marriage of Wm. Bishop and Maggie Beihl. Democratic city convention.
25―Steamer E M B A arrives from Chicago; the first steamer other than the regular ones to arrive since navigation closed. Republican caucuses.
28―Republican county convention. Republican city convention.
30―Fred Zaph horribly burned at Kilbourn’s factory. Second arrival of the season, barge Root from Michigan City. Death of John Collins and Martin Viebrock.
April 1―Life Savers go into commission. Death of Mrs. John Bolt.
4―City election First Goodrich boat arrives.
6―M E B A having closed banquet.
7―Death of Judge Arnold.
10―Y M C A meeting at the First Reformed church.
12―Ross Robinson terribly mangled by train.
17―Mary H. Boyce leaves on the first trip of the season.
18―John Pennoyer assaulted at Grand Rapids.
20―Drowning of Russel Tyler.
22―Steamer Roanoke makes last trip of the season. Death of Mrs. John Smith.
23―Steamer Street leaves on the first trip of the season.
25―Death of John Spoons.
27―Board of Supervisors meet.
29―Sheriff Vaupel arrests horse thief Smith.
30―Arrival of Mrs. Cutler’s body.
May 4―Farewell banquet to Rev. and Mrs. Sammis.
8―Fire in VandenBerg’s market.
10―Death of Chas. Cutler.
12―Inspection and dress parade by Co F. Marriage of Wm. Asman and Miss Arla Sluetel. Marriage of Wm. H. Callister and Miss Lucy Luikens.
14―John De Jongh breaks his leg. Steamer Chas. A. Street makes the round trip from Escanaba including loading and unloading in the remarkable time of 38 hours.
17―Death of Edward Van Toll. Death of Mrs. Mary McCarthy of Grand Haven township.
19―Glass factory meeting.
20―Order for removal of Supt. of Life Saving Station revoked. Prophet Trowbridge sentenced to 3 years at Jackson. Burglary at Coopersville.
25―Fire in Mrs. T. VanderZalm’s residence.
28―Meeting to organize a board of trade.
30―Decoration Day celebration. Tug Deer launched.
June 1―People’s Party convention.
2―Improvement Board elect officers. Marriage of W. R. Roberts and Mrs. Gidley.
3―Dan Swartz celebrates his tin wedding.
6―Marriage of W. E. Donaldson to Miss Bertha Barns in Detroit.
11―Steamer Columbia makes her trial trip.
13―South Channel bridge collapses. Terrible electrical storm.
16―Marriage of Joseph Ruch and Miss Amanda Lempke.
18―Boer & Bolt’s delivery horse runs away, badly injuring the delivery boy.
21―Commencement at Akeley.
23―High School Commencement.
24―Mr. and Mrs. H. Arkema celebrates their 25th wedding anniversary.
25―Luman Jenison’s team stolen.
27―Dr. E. Hofma leaves for Europe.
28―Marriage of Miss Laura Lucas to Nils Herschloff.
29―Sheriff Vaupell pursues the Jenison horse thief to Northern Indiana.
July 2―Mrs. H. Vegter has her pockets picked at the D., G. H. & M. depot.
July 4―Grand Haven has the biggest 4th of July celebration in its history. Mrs. Van Bemmelen badly hurt by sky rocket.
5―House owned by D. Roosien burned.
6―H. W. Johnston overcome by gas.
7―Marriage of Louis Verduin and Della Groenendal.
9―The notorious Norman Sweeney arrested in Muskegon.
18―Examination of Sweeney before Justice Pagelson. Reception by Rev. and Mrs. DeBruyn.
20―Steamer Wisconsin on the beach at Milwaukee. Enthusiastic wheelmen ride their machines to the Valley City.
22―Capt. Fred Behm breaks his left ankle at Whitehall.
25―25,000 feet of lumber belonging to Thomas Sheehan of Agnew set on fire by some miscreant.
30―Steamer Valley City arrives on her first trip.
Aug. 1―Cyclone on Spring Lake.
3―Two boys nearly drowned at Highland Park. Fred Faar of Grand Haven township killed by lightning. Marriage of R. G. Macfie and Miss Maud Boyden.
4―Ottawa county teacher’s examination. Tug Auger brings in a yacht which had been floating helplessly with the crew on the lake.
8―Yacht Sparta is to be inspected.
9―A. Bushman dies in Chicago.
10―Marshal Klaver arrests a man in the act of burglarizing F. Fisher’s residence.
13―Bloecker’s foundry employees have a picnic.
15―Marriage of Mr. J. Nemire and Mrs. Maggie J. McCualin of Frankfort, Ind.
16―Marriage of John Bottje and Ida Kerkhof.
17―Merchant’s picnic at Highland Park.
18―Fire in A. Kraatz’ residence.
19―Ocean steam yacht Gadabout in Port.
23―Burglars gain entrance to F. Pfaffs hardware.
25―Republican county officers nominated.
30―Geo. Mckenzie drowned from City of Toledo.
Sept. 6―Chas. Otto breaks his collar bone.
7―Democratic senatorial convention. Steamer J C Suit brought in here in a disabled condition. Death of L. L. Van Wormer.
8―Democratic county convention.
13―Allison B. Armour’s yacht, the Gryphon, in port.
14―Steamer Taylor on the beach at Saugatuck.
15―19th anniversary of the sinking of the Ironsides. Burglars in the Washington House.
17―Steamer bon voyage arrives from Lake Ontario to lay up for the season. Martin Fisher killed at Plymouth.
20―L. C. Addison accidentally shot.
21―Louis Johnson meets his death.
23―Dedication of the new building of Akeley Institute. O. H. Gromburg dies in Elgin, Ill.
26―Schooner Hattie Leroy on the beach. Schooner Morse and barge Berrien collide.
27―Marriage of F. H. Irish and Lillie cook in Grand Rapids.
28―Marriage of H. W. Grant and Miss Birdie Hutson.
30―Death of Capt. J. F. Joyce in Chicago. Death of Miss Dena Struveling.
Oct. 4―Wreck of the C. & W. M. at Olive.
5―Marriage of Henry Albers and Miss Dora M. Via.
7―Death of Wm. F. Dake in Chicago. Marriage of M. B. Hopkins and Myrtle Lowing in Grand Rapids.
8―Death of Mr. C. Wieses.
10―Geo. St. Clair trots in 2:15˝ at Lexington. Central school afire.
11―Co F election.
12―Feast in Gathering at 1st Reformed church.
13―Grand Haven Ship building Co. completes the tug E. G. Crosby.
14―Board of Supervisor’s Session. Explosion in the Express Office.
15―Twelfth anniversary of the loss of the Alpena. J. Kooiman and Joseph Koeltz business places entered by thieves.
17―Norman Sweeney attempts to break jail.
18―Jos. Theiler drowned in Chicago. Co. F leave for Chicago.
19―Old Charlie the American Express horse dies. Capt. George Boomsluiter has $300 stolen from him in Michigan City.
21―Columbus Day observed in this city.
22―John Moorlag a former resident dies at Fillmore.
23―Adolf Zwemer accidentally shot.
24―Sweeney feigns insanity.
27―Steamer Nellie makes her last regular trip. John Dillon at the Opera House.
28―Terrible gale, wind blows 60 miles an hour; many small casualties caused by it in this city.
31―Sheraman Palen dies at Wyman’s farm from the effects of being kicked by a horse. Hallowe’en observed by the small boy.
Nov. 2―Marriage of John Palmer and Mintie M. Clark.
7―Small fire in tannery. S. Verhoek’s meat market burned.
8―Election day.
9―Steamer West arrives to lay up. The schooner J Loomis McLaren brings in the largest load of lumber ever brought into Grand Haven.
10―Death of Mrs. John Zimmerman.
11―Co F reception.
12―Death of Ross Robinson. City of Milwaukee leaves for Port Huron,
14―Steamer Milwaukee arrives at Port Huron.
17―Barge McGregor arrives to lay up. Death of C. P. Sheldon of Spring Lake.
19―Death of Mrs. Joseph Fries.
22―Walter Fisher has a narrow escape from drowning in the lake.
23―Tug John A. Miller brought into this port. Death of Wm. B. Hale in Virginia.
24―Election of officers in the Holland churches.
28―Mr. and Mrs. D. Vyn celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary.
29―Steamer Minnie M arrives to lay up.
30―Death of Mrs. G. Pippel.
31―John Macfie loses the fingers of his left hand at saw mill in Mecosta Co.
Dec. 1―City well tested.
2―Norman Sweeney attempts to kill fellow prisoner. Mr. Parker of Dennison meets with a bad accident in R. Wiernger’s barn. Death of the little child of Mr. and Mrs. B. Van Toll.
4―Steamer Gill arrives to lay up.
5―Steamer Suit and schooner Macy arrive to lay up.
7―Opening of the rooms of the Young Men’s Band of Christian Workers.
11―Wrecking tug Merrick arrives.
14―Three marriages in one evening. Marriage of H. J. Donker to Miss Anna Kieft; S. A. Stuveling to Miss Lena Van Dyke; H. C. Cooper to Miss Jennie Walters.
15―Closing exercises at Akeley. Death of Mrs. E. McDonald.
16―Death of Mrs. T. Golden of Ferrysburg.
20―Farewell reception to Mr. and Mrs. G. E. Angel.
24―Fred Kohlof hurt at the freight house.
27―George Smallman meets with a painful accident on the D., G. H. & M. mail car.
28―Citizens meet to talk new court house.
29―Marriage of Lewis Haftje and Jennie Ultermark.
Mrs. Nellie Squier, as her many friends will be pleased to learn, occupies a desk in the Register of Deeds office.
During vacation an electric fire alarm system has been placed in the Central School. In case of fire the bell in each room will ring, and an alarm will ring at the fire house.
J. A. Massey, traveling salesman for I. M. Clark Grocery Company, has in his possession a copy of the Grand River Times, No. 1. Vol. 1. which he secured at Greenville recently for which he was offered $10.―G. R. Democrat. R. W. Duncan has the complete file of that paper.
[The Grand River Times collection of R. W. Duncan was eventually put onto microfilm and can be seen at the Loutit Library.]
Some time ago Capt. Stines, of the Goodrich steamer Virginia, had one of his fingers bitten in a little altercation with a deck hand, and last week the member had to be amputated, it being feared that blood poisoning had set in.
Death of Mrs. J. Goldberg.
Mrs. Johannes Goldberg for many years a resident of this city and Peach Plains, died yesterday afternoon at the home of Mr. F. Kieft on 5th St. Mrs. Goldberg had been living at Mr. Kieft’s home since the death of her husband some two and a half years ago. She had been very sick for the past years, her life being despaired of several times before. Mrs. Goldberg was seventy-three years of age. Her husband was one of the earliest settlers at Peach Plains.
In the Register of Deeds office is Chas. H. Clark with Mrs. Nellie Squier as assistant. Mr. Clark has been a supervisor longer than any other man in the county. While supervisor Mr. Clark was of great service to the county in the state indebtedness tangle and has proved to be a good officer at all times. Mr. Ingrahm his predecessor will remain in this city until spring.
In the county clerk office a genial and courteous man steps in, and a genial and courteous man steps out. George D. Turner will issue the marriage licenses and attend to the many other duties of the clerk’s office for the next two years. This is Mr. Turner’s 5th, term in the office as he served from 1881 to 1889, four consecutive terms. Mrs. Turner is known to nearly every man in the county and his ability was never questioned. His predecessor, Mr. white, made many friends while here and always attended strictly to business.
Mr. B. D. Keppel and family now occupy the jail residence. Mr. Keppel is a young man who served well and faithfully for several years as marshal of Holland, our sister city 20 miles south. Mr. Keppel has all the qualifications necessary for a sheriff.
While we are glad to welcome Mr. Keppel it is with a pang of regret to our citizens to see Ed Vaupell leave. Mr. Vaupell during his two terms has made friends by the legion here and throughout the county. He has proved to be a faithful officer, feared by law breakers. The breaking up of a tough gang in Olive under diverse circumstances will serve as an example in this instance. His detection of Sweeney in an attempt to escape jail will serve as another. Mr. Vaupell and family will reside in Holland. Already his friends there are urging him for city marshal.
The temperature went as low last night as it has at any time this winter.
Necessary repairs were made on the engine at the electric plant yesterday.
Jerry Boynton says the rails of his new railroad will be laid this month and that the trains will be running in April.
Letters with the beautiful new Columbus stamps are arriving with every mail now. They are not yet on sale at this post office.
See: http://www.1847usa.com/identify/19th/1893.htm
R. Stallings secretary of the American Mirror and Glass Beveling Co. is ill with pneumonia at the Kirby House.
Several of the fishermen are cutting ice from the pond at the pier, much to the disgust of the boys who cleared it off and made it a fine skating place.
Mrs. John Coffee, a well known pioneer resident of Spring Lake, died Monday night. Her husband was killed by a D., G. H. & M. engine two years ago.
Several Grand Haven subscribers have been getting Detroit Journal prizes lately. Now is the time to subscribe for that growing paper. The Journal and the Grand Haven TRIBUNE only twelve cents a week together.
We are informed that it is very difficult to get a sleigh with a load from the Spring Lake Bridge to the Corn Planter Works. The three blocks that intervene are wide open to the wind which sweeps the snow off the graveled road. By placing boards on the side of the road, this could be prevented.
Last night’s Detroit Journal says that local hustlers of Grand Haven are going to buy up the schooner Porcupine, which lies in Spring Lake. The Porcupine was one of Commodore Perry’s Lake Erie fleet in the war of 1812. The hustlers, the Journal says, will take her to Chicago to show as a curiosity on the Whaler Progress plan.
The new flat cars were received yesterday, for Jerry Boynton’s Grand River railroad. They were built by the Michigan Peninsula Car Company in Detroit, and are very fine cars for the kind. This makes the equipment of the road consist of a locomotive and ten flat cars. Jerry says the road is surely going to be built.―G. R. Democrat.
The Hon. George Farr of Grand Haven, was a guest in the New Livingston yesterday on the way to Lansing. Mr. Farr has gone to the capitol to do what he can to defeat Stockbridge for re-election as senator. In the shuffle four years ago Mr. Farr got left and swore vengeance. He openly opposed Belknap for congressman last fall, and now he is after larger game.― G. R. Democrat.
“Yes, I lumbered on Grand and rouge rivers almost before the Indians were here,” said George W. Friant of Muskegon in the Clerendon yesterday. “We used to raft our lumber down to Grand Haven in those days. There were a large number of saw mills scattered along the Grand and Rouge. Some of the finest pine that the Almighty ever created grew along the banks of those two rivers. When I think of how we butchered it, it makes me sick. We used to run the upright saws then. They went up one day and down the next. The saws were extremely thick. After the slabs were taken off, the principal part of the log was converted into sawdust. We generally cut 2,000 or 3,000 feet of lumber a day. Finally we got so we could saw 6,000 feet and when we got up to 8,000 and 9,000, we thought we had reached the climax.―G. R. Herald.
The Grand Haven COURIER~JOURNAL chimes that that port has more tugs than any other place of its size on the lake. What’s the matter with Sturgeon Bay, neighbor? We have got ten tugs here, and the place only boasts of about 3,000 inhabitants.―Sturgeon Bay Republican.
A Steamboatmen’s Protective Association, composed of wheelmen, lookoutmen, watchmen and stewards, has been organized at Chicago with 150 members. This is the initial of a series of such organizations, one of which will be in each port of the chain of lakes and at each Pacific Coast port.
Car ferry No. 2 has reached Frankfort.
Norman Sweeney, it is said, will be brought up for trial in circuit court next week.
The German Workingman’s Society are to have a new style of cap. The society is growing and now has nearly 100 members.
The New Court House.
The board of Supervisors at their session this morning voted almost unanimously to submit to the people a proposition to build a new court house on the condition that the city put $15,000 in the county treasury for the same. The board will adjourn tomorrow to convene again in February. In the meantime a special election will have to be held in this city. If the citizens vote the $15,000, then the Board at their February session will submit the matter to the people of the county. But if the city should vote against bonding itself, then the board will submit the proposition of rebuilding the jail to the extent of $6,000 or $8,000. In other words the court house project would then be dead and the jail would be rebuilt at its present site. In case of a court house being built both the City Hall and jail would be removed to another site.
January.
Darkness and light reign alike. Snow is on the ground. Cold is in the air. The winter is blossoming in frost flowers. Why is the ground hidden? Why is the earth white? So hath god wiped out the past; so hath he spread the earth like an unwritten page for a new year! Old sounds are silent in the forest and in the air. Insects are dead, birds are gone, leaves have perished, and all the foundations of the soil remain. Upon this lies, white and tranquil, the emblems of newness and purity, the virgin robes of the yet unstained year. H. W. BEECHER.
It costs only eight cents to send a registered letter now.
Stockbridge still claims the lead in the race for senatorship.
The project of dyking Grand River is again being agitated in Jackson.
The electric fire system in the Central school building has not yet been tested but will be in a few days.
No such blizzard as this has been witnessed here in several years, and the winter is already stamped as a genuine old fashioned one.
The streets were not crowded with pedestrians today, and everybody who did appear, walked as though it were an effort to hold up before the wind and snow.
The second genuine blizzard of the winter struck the city last night and this morning. Snow was piled along every fence two or three feet deep. The fog horn at the pier kept up an incessant whistle all night.
It will be heard with favor that Sheriff Keppel has reappointed those old stand-bys Francis Murray and Chas. Christmas as deputies.
Sheriff B. J. Keppel has appointed ex-sheriff Ed Vaupell as under sheriff. The deputies thus far appointed are Francis Murray, Chas. Christmas and Harry Oaks of Grand Haven; frank VauRy and Jacob Lokker of Holland; P. R. Averill of Coopersville; James Parady of Allendale.
E. L. Van Wormer will move his restaurant from its present location to the Davis building, between 1st and Water St. Mr. VanWormer will begin moving shortly and is having the building fitted up preparatory thereto. It will be one of the finest restaurants in the city.
The public schools were dismissed at 12:30 for the rest of the day on account of the blizzard.
Chas. Gibson a vag was sentenced to ten days in jail by Justice Pagelson this morning.
Week of Prayer.
This evening union services will be held at the Second Reformed church. The topic will be “Foreign Missions. Praise: For Missionary Progress; For the Volunteers in Institutions of Learning.” Ps. LXVII. Matt. XXVII; 19:20. Rom. 1: 14-17.
Prayers for Missionary Societies; for increased missionary spirit; co-operation and contributions; for missionaries and their helpers; for native churches and their pastors; for secret believers; for the conversion of Jews, Mohammedans and Heathens; for increased recognition to the oneness of the race:―Ps. XXII: 27-28. Matt. I: II. Eph. III: 6.
The topic of tomorrow night’s union service will be Home Missions. Prayers will be for pastors, missionaries and other laborers; for the heathen at our doors; for depleted rural districts and neglected city populations, and for increased Christian comity. On Saturday night the topic will be Families and Schools. Prayer will be for increased sanctity of the married relations, for more general observance of family worship, for the preservation and increased efficiency of our public schools and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the teachers and learners in said schools and religious societies of young men and women.
It is generally reported that the barge McGregor will go into the iron ore trade between Fruitport and Escanaba next season.
The Wisconsin did not arrive today, remaining in Milwaukee on account of the storm.
The steamer Roanoke started for Milwaukee at midnight last night. As she was turning around and broadside inside the river the ice and wind prevented her from turning either way. After working for some time the tug Merrick was whistled for and came to her assistance, butting her around. The tug Merrick then took her outside but on account of the heavy sea she returned an hour later.
The steamer City of Milwaukee is running in connection with the two car ferries between Frankfort and Kewaunee.
Flour agencies at Buffalo are receiving consignments from Minneapolis, all rail, the cars mostly coming across on the ferry from Kewaunee to Frankfort. They complain that all winter routes are slow.
Grand Haven Harbor Leads All Others.
The terrible mid-winter storm has proved that Grand Haven has the best harbor on the lake and that none can surpass it on the entire chain of lakes. The steamer Laura attempted to enter Racine, St. Joe and Milwaukee, but failed. She then ran across the lake and came in here. No steamer has ever had trouble in making Grand Haven harbor, and its 20 feet of water makes it safe for any ship to enter. In winter as well in summer it is the same.
It seems strange that transportation companies that have winter boats should hazard the lives of their seamen by having as terminals, ports, which are extremely dangerous to enter even in a mild summer storm. Grand Haven’s superior advantages should be placed before these companies.
A. Obeke and Co. are now the only fishermen who still have a gang of nets set.
Contractors S. Stuveling and A. J. Ver Berkemoes have completed the contract of building Akeley Annex.
The past 24 hours no Chicago mail has arrived. A blockade of south bound trains near Benton harbor caused the trouble partly.
John Gatfield manager of the Western Union Telegraph Co., held No. 92 which drew Chas. Macomber’s Columbia bicycle. The drawing was held at Mat Chamber’s tonsorial parlors.
Ex-Street commissioner Dykema has the contract for clearing off the skating rink near the Emlaw mill. A space 800 feet by 800 feet will be cleared.
The experiences which the steamers Wisconsin and Lora underwent remind one of the winter of 1883.
Capt. Martin did not take the Roanoke across to Milwaukee this trip but remained to see about the burned tug Wright.
Wrecker Wright Burned.
About 7 o’clock last evening the tug Merick and a D., G. H. & M. engine sounded an alarm of fire by their fierce whistles. In five minutes a big portion of town was on the river front. The blaze proved to be on the big wrecking tug, Albert J. Wright, which lies just north of the D., G. H. & M. dock, where the South channel begins. The fire had a good start and to complicate matters the fire department could get no water. One hydrant was frozen and for a long time not a drop was procurable.
The wrecker Merick poured a stream on her from the river side. For a time the D. & M. freight house was threatened, and the Roanoke began wetting down that building. The steamer A. B. Taylor is in winter quarters only a short distance back from the Wright, but the wind was from the Northwest and she was in no danger. Crowds flocked across the South channel bridge and viewed the blaze from the island. The D. & M. freight engine was kept busy moving cars out of the way of burning.
The entire upper works of the Wright were burned and her engine, boiler and machinery badly damaged.
The Wright arrived here from the “Soo” early last December. She was probably one of the largest tugs of her class in port. She had come here with the intention of assisting the Merick , but had been laid up. Her owners were principally the Botsford Co., of Port Huron, although Capt. Martin of the Roanoke is also interested in her. She was built in Buffalo in 1881, her hailing place being Port Huron. Her gross tonnage was 240.57 and 124.63 tons net. She is 118 feet long, 28 feet beam and draws 10 feet of water. She was longer than the Merick by 18 feet but was not so wide by a foot.
In a fire so situated there is always more or less danger to the spectators. Many had narrow escapes from slipping into the river from the icy docks.
At the city pumping station 120 pounds of pressure was maintained from the start and frozen hydrants must have been the cause of lack of water.
The Wisconsin’s Terrible Experience.
It was a weird sight indeed; the arrival of the steamer Wisconsin this morning. For many years now, the Wisconsin has braved the wintry, icy gales on the winter route between here and Milwaukee. When she came in early this morning she presented the appearance of a monster ice king. Her entire hull, decks and even Capt. Honner’s cabin were coated with ice to a great thickness.
The Wisconsin left Milwaukee harbor at 9 o’clock Wednesday. Nothing preventing she should have been in here early yesterday morning, but instead she was battling with a fierce mid winter gale on Lake Michigan. Then the rolling and floundering of the ship caused the barrels and bags of flour to shift and eventually break open and cover the deck. For nearly 36 hours the Wisconsin pitched and rolled off this harbor. The sea continuing, she could not have stood it much longer. One of her spars was loosened by the breaking of a thick heavy cable, caused by the terrible strain. It was a terrible storm and it was a very thankful crew indeed when port was made this morning..
As soon as she arrived spectators gathered at the dock. Such a spectacle had not been seen here since the terrible winter of ’83 when the ship Michigan, crushed by the ice went down 20 miles from here. It was in that winter that the Wisconsin had a still worse experience. She came in once with her sides crushed in and appeared as crooked as chain lightning.
About three hours after she arrived this morning the broken flour barrels and former contents had been cleared away and the work of unloading went on as usual. The promenade deck around the passenger cabin presented the appearance of a skating rink and the crew immediately went to work chopping off the ice and throwing it overboard.
Battle with the Sea.
The wharves are the most animated part of the city today. The burning of the Wright, the arrival of the Wisconsin and later the arrival of the steamer Lora served to bring the people down to that part of the city.
The Lora arrived at 9 o’clock this morning. She, like the Wisconsin was coated with ice from stem to stern. She is one of the Vandalia Trans. Co.’s steamers. Wednesday night at 10 o’clock she cleared from St. Joe with a cargo of steel. A terrible sea was encountered and she attempted to make Racine and also Milwaukee, but failed.
During this time her cargo of steel was shifting about. Then a heavy sea struck her and her front bulwarks were stove in. Capt. Lookeridge and two of the crew were knocked down, three of the captain’s ribs being broken. She attempted to re-enter St. Joe but it was no use and she ran up to Grand Haven.
Said one of the officers: “It was the worst sea I have ever seen in my years of sailing. We gave up hopes at one time yesterday of ever again stepping ashore. One sea washed over us and flooded the ship. We thought our doom’s day had come.”
Frozen potatoes can be restored to palatableness by peeling them and letting them lie in a cool place with plenty of cold water poured over them. In twenty-four hours all the sugar which has been formed during the freezing process will have been removed and the potatoes can now be boiled in fresh water and will be found to be perfectly palatable.
The new Columbian postage stamps are of striking design and are admired by all.
Capt. Lockridge of the steamer Lora had his injuries examined by Dr. Hofma yesterday. Two of his ribs were found to be broken and several badly injured. He also suffered internal injuries which will require him to be very careful.
A resolution [by common council] was introduced to submit to the legal voters on January 21st the proposition to issue bonds to the amount of $15,000 for anew court house. Same if carried shall be deposited in the county treasury to be paid by February 7th. The resolution was adopted.
Capt. Lockridge Roasts St. Joe’s Harbor.
Capt. Lockridge of the steamer Lora of the Vandelia Line speaks in words of the highest praise of Grand Haven Harbor and says it is the finest port on the lakes. On the other hand he has nothing good to say of St. Joe harbor.
The Lora left St. Joe at 10 o’clock Wednesday night. At 1 o’clock she was struck by the gale. The gale increased to a terrible blizzard and the night was one of inky darkness. The ship seemed to emerge from one wall of black to another. About 3:30 Thursday morning her forward shutters, where the anchors hang were stove in. Capt. Lockridge and some of his crew attempted to cover the hole, when a sea at least 60 feet high struck the ship. The captain was hurled with terrific force against the wall and his ribs broken. The cook also suffered severe injuries.
Capt.Lockridge gave them orders to turn about and at four o’clock she was headed back for St. Joe. At that time she was only 20 miles from Kenosha. At about noon of Thursday she was off St. Joe but did not dare enter because of the poor harbor of that port. Seeing he could not make St. Joe, Capt. Lockridge as a last resource ran north to Grand Haven and entered safely.
The captain spoke in high terms of his crew. “The entire crew of 24, he said, “acted like men throughout the whole terrible ordeal. None of them whimpered but stood at their posts all through, without and exception. The ship too, proved herself to be one of the best sea boats that a sailor ever trod and I am proud of her and her men.”
Speaking of St. Joe harbor Capt. Lockridge said: “It would have been certain wreck, and death to the crew if we had attempted to get in there Thursday. The trouble with St. Joe harbor is the way in which the government has improved it. Every summer the river is dredged and a large amount of money is expended. The contractors are getting rich, but every fall the sand again shift and every summer the work has to be done over again. Considering the amount expended St. Joe should have a decent harbor. If the government instead of going to the useless expense of dredging St. Joe river would lengthen the piers several hundred feet it would be doing something. Our sailor’s lives and our boats should be of some consideration.
The Detroit Journal of last night has an article on Ottawa county in 1851.
In speaking of the article in the Detroit News in regard to a new Ottawa Co. court house, the Holland News says:
We can conceive of no other object on the part of our friends at Grand Haven in sending out such stuff as the above, than to arouse a local spirit, or “hustle” in behalf of the pending project. Nevertheless we venture to suggest that accusations and insinuations like the above which are false in toto, may have a reactionary tendency and effect. For while Holland hitherto has never made a move towards relieving our sister city of its prestige as the county seat. Still, there is no telling what such communications might logically lead to.
Snow fell to a depth of several inches last night and is still falling today.
The Vandalia system would do well by making this port, the eastern terminal of their boat line for the rest of the winter.
The steamer Lora will remain here until tonight to undergo repairs.
The Wrecker Merik assisted Obeke & Co.’s tug Anna out to her nets this morning. As far as the eye can see Lake Michigan is covered with slush ice which is very hard to get through. As we go to press the Anna is not yet in. Capt. Obeke does not expect to find his nets, but if they are still there a big haul of fish can be expected.
The water was pumped out from the burnt tug Wright yesterday.
The big wrecking tug Wright which burned Thursday night was built by Mills & Co., in Buffalo in 1881. Her first services were between Buffalo, Milwaukee and Chicago. Later on she was converted into a passenger steamer and ran between Buffalo and Chicago. This not proving profitable she was again converted into a tug. Since built she has had several owners. She had a Lloyd’s valuation of $15,000.
Schools were dismissed at 12:45 today on account of the storm.
If water can be obtained Grand Haven fishermen will win every time.
Upper Peninsula papers are urging that that peninsula be taken off Michigan and become the State of Superior.
One could not see half a block up or down Washington street at 11 o’clock this forenoon on account of the snow storm.
Justice Pagelson sentenced James Duun and John Wilson, two d―ds, to the county jail for eight days this morning.
F. M. Grooters of this city has a veritable storehouse of stories of the early days of Grand Haven and its pioneers, Ferry’s, Albee’s, etc.
One citizen remarked today that in a few years Grand Haven’s dockage and marine interests would be so great as to require a fire boat.
Geo. A. Farr and Ex-Judge of Probate Chas. E. Soule have formed a law partnership to be known as Farr & Soule. The reputation of both is well known throughout the county and state.
At 4 o’clock yesterday afternoon a southwest blizzard set in which up to midnight was the worst storm of the winter. At that hour the wind quieted and shifted to the north. This morning some of the drifts were nearly ten feet high.
One can leave Grand Haven on a mild April day with the temperature 60 or thereabouts and be transported north within four hours to where the temperature is ranging between 10 below and ten above zero and where snow lies four and five feet in depth. This change in temperature is witnessed only in the northwestern states and is remarkable when thought of.
One of the most exciting experiences that a pioneer in this vicinity ever had was that of a man named Somerset in the 60’s. Somerset lived near Mill House bayou. He was at Grand Haven one day and started for home afoot in the afternoon. The shades of evening were just beginning to fall, when he was horrified by a sound which he knew too well. He had been scented by a pack of wolves and the ferocious animals were on his track. Somerset was near the bayou and hurried to a spot where he knew a row boat was moored. The wolves were upon him before he reached the river’s bank, but by throwing a package which he carried, toward them, he diverted their attention from him. It was only for a brief minute and they were again after him, but he had reached the boat and pulled away in safety.
The fishermen have a name for nearly every one of the hills on the lake shore, on both sides of the river.
The winter of 1893 is making a record for itself. But with all its blustering it is far more healthy than the several preceding winters.
Verhoek’s Market Burned Again.
For the second time within a few months Solomon Verhoek’s meat market has had a narrow escape from entire destruction by fire. Shortly after midnight last night Fred Jonker, who lives above the Bee Hive grocery and who had been sitting up with his wife who is sick, heard a cracking noise in the market. Looking out the windows he saw flames and quickly ran to the engine house to give the alarm. The night was a wild one, the wind blowing fiercely. The flames had a good start when the firemen reached the scene, but two streams of water were put on and by two o’clock this morning it had been thoroughly extinguished.
The fire was of incendiary origin and was started in the very same place that the former fire was. The shop is burned about as much as before and as in the case of the fire too much credit cannot be given the fire department. The loss is covered by insurance. Water leaking into the barber shop of Henry Vander Veere did some damage to the walls.
The question now is “Is there a fire bug at work?” If there is and whoever it is, if detected, life imprisonment is none to good for the person who would put citizen’s lives in danger by burning down buildings in the dead of night. Every person hopes the guilty party will be detected.
A couple of young fellows hired a rig yesterday and took their girls up to Muskegon. The blizzard came up in the afternoon and up to 4 o’clock today they had not been heard from. There is talk of a search party being organized.
A snow cleaning brigade, as Muskegon now has, would be a great improvement here. The walks should be cleared of snow by all means.
The amount of wheat in store at Milwaukee just now is a little short of 2,350 bushels. Most of it is owned by speculators and will be shipped to the seaboard on the opening of navigation.
The D., G. H. & M. freight house employees were notified Saturday that their pay would be reduced to 15 cents an hour beginning today. They had been getting 20. The pay car will be here tonight to make the men happy.
Nearly all the fishermen are getting their supply of ice.
Capt. John Muir of the old river boat Barrett, is not in favor of a canal between here and Grand Rapids, but thinks dredging the river the more feasible scheme.
The dam at Grand Rapids is frozen tightly, the first time in some years.
The steamer Lora is said to be one of the worst rolling vessels on the lake, but a good sea boat for all that.
The car ferry No. 2 has already had the sheathing torn away from her bow by the ice.
The steamer Lora has 42 state rooms and is electric lighted throughout.
The last gang of nets which Grand Haven fishermen had out were picked up by the tug Annie, Saturday. Contrary to expectations, they were found to be all right and the firm of A. Obeke & Co. are happy and rejoicing over the fact that they made the last haul of the season. About 6,000 of fish were in the nets.
The steamer Roanoke was slightly burned yesterday in Milwaukee requiring the assistance of a fire tug to extinguish the blaze.
Even the winter of 15 and 20 years ago are said not to have equaled this.
The few real estate transfers that now take place in Muskegon indicate how that town’s boom has busted.
The C. & W. M. cancelled their early trains today on account of snow.
Ottawa County has seventeen attorneys of which Grand Haven has ten, Holland four and Coopersville three.
John Moll caught a screech owl in his dove cote last night. The owl was a small one and was just in the act of devouring one of the doves.
“This is the worst winter we have had in a number of years in our section,” said Hon. Dwight Cutler of Grand Haven in the New Livingston yesterday. “We have more snow than there is here and of course more wind. Things are lively tough, more so for a good many winters back. Boats are running regularly to Milwaukee and will probably do so all winter. The boats come in a good many times covered with ice, but there has been no damage yet. Ten years ago this winter, I think it was, that we did not have a train for a week. There was a party of us ready to go to California and the women had their bonnets on day and night ready to go at a moments notice. We finally got a special engine and went to New Buffalo. That was a pretty tough winter.”―G. R. Democrat.
The ice in the river channel now has formed to quite a thickness.
A great deal of ice is said to now forming on the lake. Large balls of snow and ice are formed which are gradually enlarged by the rolling.
The following from the Dorr, Allegan Co. Times: “It is reported that the L. S. & M. S. R. R. company are about to carry out their long contemplated project of extending a branch line to some point on the lake shore as a feeder to this division. It is now believed that this branch will be started at a point about three miles north of this village, on the county line, and run nearly direct to Grand Haven. This report seems to be confirmed by the fact that Matt Herp intends to move his saw mill three miles north of here next spring, and that he and Theo. Myers and others are buying a large quantity of real estate in that vicinity. Such a line of rail road would be of great advantage to the people of North Dorr, Jamestown, and other points along the route, but would prove very disastrous to the villages of Dorr and Byron Center. This project will probably be brought to a hasty completion in order to head off the Jerry Boynton scheme of building a low grade road from Grand Rapids to Grand Haven.
Sweeney Pleads Guilty.
Norman Sweeney the horse thief who has been in the country jail for several months, and who has gained a national reputation by his escapades, told Sheriff Keppel this afternoon that he wished to plead guilty. He was brought before Judge Pagelson and so plead. The Judge deferred his sentence until tomorrow.
Sweeney’s final decision was suddenly brought about by the arrival of the Chicago witnesses this morning. Now everybody is conjecturing as to what the sentence will be, and the interest in the case has revived. His sudden change of mind was a surprise to all.
Death of Charlie Angel.
Chas. H. Angel, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. N. Angel, passed away last evening at 10 o’clock at the home of his parents. His death was caused directly by pleuro pneumonia, although indirectly it was caused by blood poisoning. He was 23 years of age, and was born in this city.
None knew Charlie Angel, but to like him. His quiet, unassuming, gentlemanly ways and bearing endeared him to all with whom he chanced to meet. Ambitious and a good student he worked hard for the point he desired to reach. His death casts a shade of sadness upon his many friends here.
Early last summer Charlie was at St. Mark’s Hospital, Grand Rapids , studying with his usual zeal to be a physician and surgeon. At the hospital he had many opportunities to watch the operations upon the patients and assist them in, in this way obtaining a practical insight. At a post mortem examination held there, he was detailed by the surgeons to sew the wounds of the patient.
While doing this he pricked his finger with the operating needle, but did not think anything of it at the time. The wound was no larger than that which an ordinary needle will give. In a few days the finger became swollen and blood poisoning set in. Charlie was very ill for a time and part of the finger was amputated. He gradually recovered and it was thought that he regained his former health. He came to his mome in this city and for a time was bookkeeper for Macfie & Son at their office.
He was then offered a position by Forrest Bros., to in former years millers in this city, but now of Manistee. He accepted and has been with them up to about two weeks ago. Then the finger began to trouble him again and he went to Grand Rapids to have another operation performed. The operation took two hours during which time he was under the influence of Chloroform. After it was over he felt ill from the effects of it, and went out doors to dispel the nauseous taste.
Coming home, plearo pneumonia set in and he has been lying at the point of death ever since. There was a slight change for the better on Saturday, but a relapse set in during the night. The last few hours of his life he was unconscious.
His brother George is here from Detroit and Harry who has been down South for his health will probably be here tomorrow. His sister, Mrs. Andrew, who resides in Detroit, has been here since Saturday.
The temperature went down lower last night than any previous time this winter.
The tent of K.O.T.M. of this city claim one of the largest secret organizations in the country. The lodge has 160 members.
If you can see the letter ‘B on the souvenir half dollars, then there is nothing the matter with your eyesight.
Roanoke’s Narrow Escape.
At half past 5 o’clock last evening, while the steamer Roanoke was lying at the dock of the Union Steamboat Company finishing a cargo of flour, fire broke out in the paint locker, which is situated in the fore peak, and for a short time serious damage was threatened, both to the steamer and to the immense freight shed. A prolonged alarm from the chime whistle of the craft, as well as speedy use of the telephone, brought the fire boat Cataract and a number of fire engines to the scene, and the blaze was soon subdued. The damage to the steamer is estimated at $200 only, but it is feared that the lower tier of flour in the hold may have suffered to a much greater extent from the water brought to bear upon the flames. The exact amount of this damage will not be ascertained until the cargo is discharged at Grand Haven. Bad weather prevented the Roanoke from leaving for that port last night, and as the storm rages harder than ever today she may not get away before tomorrow.―Evening Wisconsin, Jan. 9.
550 feet of pier will be built at Muskegon harbor this year.
There is still no sign of a let up of the cold wave.
Evidence of Jack Frost are seen on every window pane.
Scarlet fever is in the family of Henry Scholton of Jackson street.
Sheriff Keppel is giving the prisoner’s cells a thorough over hauling.
Gen. Ben. Butler died early this morning.
The new return postal cards are not meeting with great favor as they break in two, in the mails.
The steamer Roanoke arrived at 8 o’clock this morning. She was assisted into the harbor by the ice breaker Merick.
Two merry sleighride parties left the city last night, the objective point being Mr. Hoy’s home in Peach Plains.
The stockholders of the Grand Haven Leather Co. elected the following officers yesterday: President, C. N. Nyland; Secy, J. Vaupell; Treas, Geo. Stickney; board of Directors, D. Vyn and A. J. Nyland. A dividend of 7 per cent was declared after the first of April.
Eber L. Barber, the man who wanted to sue the city of Detroit for false imprisonment has been denied. Supt. Starkweather said that he had been twice convicted of forgery, has served time for two years and is under suspicion now. He is the man who attempted to forge Jay Barnes’ name for $20.
Capt. McGregor, who is in temporary command of the steamer Roanoke, says there is but little ice on the lake, except for two miles off this harbor, and none to occasion any trouble. The captain does not think there will be any danger of an ice blockade this winter unless there should be considerable wind from the southwest.
The car ferrys are meeting with trouble in getting in Kewaunee and Frankfort.
It is now understood that Judge Padgham will not sentence Norman Sweeney until tomorrow or Friday.
Judage Padgham is proving a great drawing card. His court room is filled to overflowing. The judge ought to raise the price of admission.
The city snow plow made its first rounds of the winter today. This is a right move and it should come out after every snow.
The stockholders of the Globe Match Co., met at City Hall last evening and elected the following officers: President, Chas. E. Soule; Vice President S. H. Boyce; Directors, Chas. E. Soule; Sherman H. Boyce; John A. Pfaff; Wm. Thieleman; Benona A. Biakeney.
Wm. Jones and Peter Kenyon, vagrants, were sentenced to ten days in jail by Justice Pagelson this morning.
Mr. Hyer, who was so fast to get the printing of the city water works case, finds now that he is unable to do the job and is seeking for assistance. The other printers of the city were not allowed to bid.
At nearly every port on the great lakes is a lodge of those jolly good fellows the Lake Marine Engineers Beneficial Association. Grand Haven is no exception and they have a thriving lodge here of 85 members. Their rooms are above the plumbing and gas fitting establishment of Johnston & Son.
Racing and Regatta Days of Grand Haven.
It was only fifteen or twenty years ago that Grand Haven rivaled with the metropolitan cities in sporting matters. In the early 70’s a fine mile track was built in Peach Plains, and Grand Haven was placed in the circuit. Many of the fast ones of that period including Bodine (a then very famous horse) have sped around that track. But the sport degenerated here and what was once the race track was a field of rye last summer.
Also about that time Grand Haven through the personal efforts of one man became one of the principal centers of the oarmen and rowing and sculling fraternity of the country. Frank Yates resided here then and was as fast as any of them. For several summers regattas were held on Spring Lake and Grand River and those who remember, still delight to tell of the throngs of people from here and abroad who thronged the banks to witness the races. Cortney and many others of world wide fame in rowing circles were there. But the people in this vicinity went to see Frank Yates win and he generally kept good the trust.
Capt. Yates is in Chicago now and the Chicago Times of Sunday had a very fine sketch and portrait of him. We take the following form the sketch:
“Capt. Frank Yates is a splendid example of what a man who takes good care of himself may become. The captain took to athletics as naturally as he did his meals, but that was ‘way back yonder.’ Frank did very little fencing, but was first known nationally as an oarsman. It was old ‘Bill’ Curtis, now editor of the Spirit of the Times, and so aptly named ‘Father of Athletics,’ who first induced Yates to try sculling, and so proficient did he become at the game that inside of a year he had won the American Championship. That was in 1874. He and Charles Courtney, then an amateur, doubled up and their mile and a half time made in centennial year at Philadelphia is still the best on record. After winning upward of fifty trophies on the water from 1874 to 1878 Capt. Yates became convinced that amateur rowing was devised more for men of means than for those who had to work for a living, and he took up fencing and was able to gratify his taste for the sport by constantly meeting the best men all over the country. In 1889 he went to Paris and studied the French system from al the leading instructors. He is now reputed to be a past master of the art, and despite his 45 years is as active as any of the youngsters. He taught fencing at the board of trade gymnasium for a number of years, and succeeded in making experts of many of the members of that institution. At present the captain has a large school at arms on the South side.
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This map began appearing in the Evening Tribune in the fall of 1892.
There is very little “grip” this winter.
Oysters are said to be scarce for this season.
S. Verhoeks has not yet commenced to rebuild his burnt butcher shop.
A laboring man was frozen to death in the snow near Manistee.
The temperature went down to nearly 15 below at Chicago yesterday.
Fresh oysters arriving daily at Wm. Van Drezer’s restaurant.
The freight handlers have been employed until 10 o’clock for the past several evenings.
Norman Sweeney has been quite happy since he changed his plea to guilty, which seemed to relieve his mind.
Assistant Postmaster Chas. N. Dickenson belongs to the Ex-Prisoners of War Association. He was a prisoner at Libby.
Taxpayers should not lose sight of the fact that a special meeting will be held in the council rooms of the city hall on Saturday, Jan. 11. The polls will be open on that day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The meeting is for the purpose of raising $15,000 to be deposited with the county treasurer, on or before February 7th, and to be credited to the Court House building fund, and is the amount to be raised by the city over and above the city’s share to be raised by general tax by the people of the county. The bonds are to be payable $3000 in one year, $3000 in two years, $3000 in three years, $3000 in four years, and $3000 in five years with interest not to exceed 6 per cent payable semi-annually.
FIVE YEARS.
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Sweeney Sentenced to Jackson Prison for Five years.
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Norman Sweeney was brought before Judge Padgram at three o’clock this afternoon. The judge asked him if he had anything to say why sentence should not be passed. He answered in his usual unmoved way “No.” The judge then asked his attorney, Mr. Farr, if he had anything to say. Mr. Farr said that he had not, only to say that he had property in his hands to pay for the stolen Jenison horses. Judge Padgham then sentenced Sweeney to five years at hard labor in Jackson Prison. This ends Sweeney as far as Grand Haven is concerned and it can truly be said that he is one of the worst cases ever sentenced from Ottawa County Circuit Court. The sentence is a hard one, but deserved.
Letter From Rev. Van Zanten.
EDITOR EVENING TRIBUNE:
Dear Sir—As stated in your issue of the 10th inst. The Second Reformed church of this city will henceforth be an entirely English-speaking church.
At a congregational meeting of the church, held last Monday evening, it was so resolved.
This action is the final outcome of a principle adopted by this church as early as March 19th, 1880. At a congregational meeting then held it was resolved:
“That this church acknowledges the desirability, and adopts as principle, the substitution of the English language in place of the Dutch, and further, that the consistory be and is hereby instructed to promote as much as possible the use of the English language in divine services, and especially in catechetical instruction and Sunday School work.”
The consistory duty duly heeded these instructions, and faithfully promoted the use of the English language during the past twelve or thirteen years, wherever possible, so that by this time all the services were conducted in the English language, except the Sunday forenoon service.
But this process—long, gradual, mild, conciliatory as it was—did not prove to be altogether satisfactory, nor conducive to the best interests of all concerned.
The process partook of the nature of a compromise, and, like all compromises, proved to have its weak points, and these weak points became more and more evident to all closely observing persons, particularly to parents and grand parents having a number of children and grandchildren. Those understanding only, (or chiefly) the Dutch had only that one service on Sunday forenoons; those understanding only (or chiefly) the English language had no public divine service during the entire day, except the Sunday School. Both unsatisfactory and void of justice, as also of the desired benefits to either party.
Hence, after due and deliberate consideration last Monday evening, it was resolved, by a vote standing in the proportion of four yeas to one nay, to become an entirely English speaking church from this time on.
Hoping, yes confidently believing that the Second Reformed church has a mission here at Grand Haven, as also that she is in a better position than ever before, to fill that mission, I remain truly yours for the good of the community and the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom among young and old in this community.
J. J. VAN ZANTEN,
Pastor 2nd Ref. Ch.
Grand Haven Jan 11, 1893.
The Hon. Thomas D. Gilbert says: “I have known ex-Senator Thos. W. Ferry ever since he ran around in pantalettes. When he was about fourteen years old he became interested in the study of parliamentary usages. He made a very thorough study of the various manuals published on the practice of deliberative bodies. When he was elected to Congress Schuyler Colfax took a liking to the Michigan young man and soon noticed his skill in parliamentary practice and often called him to the chair and thus gave him a chance to become better known to the world. When Ferry was promoted to the United States senate upon taking his seat he found Colfax in the chair as Vice President of the United States. As in the house Colfax was Ferry’s friend and Ferry was often called to the chair. When Colfax died and the senate elected a presiding officer to succeed him and to be Vice President of the United States, the East was arraigned against the West. Ferry was elected by a majority of one and his success can be attributed in a large degree to the chance given him by Colfax and principally to his thorough knowledge of parliamentary practice which he began to acquire as a boy of fourteen.—G. R. Democrat.
In Circuit Court.
The case of the people vs. Wm. Morrissey is being tried in the Circuit court today. Tom Sheehan of Agnew, well known here, is the complain tent. Walter I. Lillie is attorney for the defendant.
On July 23 last, a pile of lumber belonging to Mr. Sheehan, containing 26,247 feet, was set on fire and burned. The lumber was piled on Mr. Sheehan’s property near the school house on the Grand Haven road town 7. It was valued at $300 with no insurance. Mr. Sheehan had a warrant sworn out for the arrest of Mr. Morrissey some time later.
His suspicion of Morrissey was the outcome of trouble which he had with the latter as short time previous. Morrissey had been acting strangely one day and had driven his wife and his daughters from the house. They sought assistance and Tom Sheehan, a Mr. McCarthy and Mr. Connell went to Morrissey’s house. They found him raving about they say, and pulling his own hair like a mad man. The three tied Mr. Morrissey hand and foot and brought him to jail in this city. No action being made against him, he was released the next day.
After being released he is said to have stated that he would get even with Tom Sheehan. The burning of the lumber followed and the trial the outcome.
Tom Sheehan was on the stand this afternoon. His rich Irish brogue and queer remarks made even the court laugh. Attorney Lillie asked him how it was that it took three big men to strap Morrissey?
“To make it easier, to be sure,” said Tom and everybody laughed, not excepting Judge Padgham.
Tom was asked concerning his feelings towards Morrissey. In answer he said, Well, I wouldn’t kiss him.”
Tom could not be rattled or abashed. He stated that he was afraid of Morrissey. That Morrissey had threatened him. When asked if Morrissey had openly threatened to burn his lumber, he said he had not. He also described the exact location of the lumber and the distance of the pile from Morrissey’s house.
There are several witnesses and as we go to press the case is still on.
The ice on Muskegon Lake is now strong enough for teams to cross.
C. & W. M. freight is just beginning to catch up since the big storm.
Tell your neighbor of the advantages that accrue to this city by building of a new court house.
The bursting of a water pipe did slight damage at the residence of Mr. J. Woltman today.
The Wisconsin remained here today and the Roanoke did not come in.
It is thought that the burned tug Wright will be a total loss. Her boiler and engines were badly damaged and the hull is said to be so weak that it cannot be rebuilt.
The plumbers are exceedingly happy over this “genuine, old fashioned winter.” The bursting water pipes has caused considerable annoyance and damage in residences and business places about town.
The case of the people vs. Wm. Morrissey for the burning of lumber belonging to Tom Sheehan was finished yesterday. The judge ordered a verdict of not guilty.
The steamer City of Fremont arrived off St. Joe Saturday, but on account of the ice could not get in. Blasting was tried without success. Men, were then engaged to cut a channel which was successfully done.
Rev. J. Rice Taylor, former pastor of the Saugatuck Episcopal church, has become insane and had to be taken to an asylum. Rev. Taylor was the first pastor of St. John’s church of this city. His mental trouble dates back several years.
Henry J. Dornbos & Bro, made their last shipment of fish Wednesday. The firm of Dornbos & Bro., are hustlers and their business is rapidly increasing, orders being received from all parts of the Union. They have worked hard during the past year and the success which is theirs they have earned, and will be ready for the opening of the fishing season of 1893.
The TRIBUNE was in error Thursday regarding the election of officers of the Grand Haven Leather Co. We learned since that the stockholders meeting of Thursday was for the purpose of electing a board of directors only, and that the board had not yet elected its officers. The present officers will be re-elected.
The annual masquerade ball given by the German Workingman’s Society last evening was one of the most successful ever given by that society. The Opera House Orchestra of Muskegon furnished very fine music. The first dance was shortly after 8 o’clock and the crowd did not disperse until nearly 4 this morning. Over 250 couples took part and the hall was crowded.
The time is opportune for our people to secure a new court house. The question of what Grand Haven will do is awaiting answer. The county will act if the city will. Home pride and business sense is involved in the issue. What objection any man who owns a dollars worth of property in this city can have to the proposition is beyond conception. The money spent will find its way into the hands of our people and when completed, the building will be both a pleasure and profit to our town. Think it over carefully and vote for it on the 21st. inst.
They Object.
Casper Ruch Jr., one of the witnesses in the Morrissey-Sheehan fire case yesterday was in town today. He says he never had such a job to get money before as he had to get his fees. The rest of his statement is as follows. They turned all corners from him, but he clung to them like a puppy to a root, as he expressed it, till he got paid. They had nerve enough (probably means the Morrissey’s) to ask him to ride home with them. He said he was too much of a gentleman to ride with such class of people. He got all he wanted to do with them. He don’t want to be classed as a one-eyed man.
Thomas Sheehan, the complainant in the case against William Morrissey in Circuit Court yesterday, wishes it distinctly understood that he is not from Agnew, but from West Olive on the lake shore. He wishes us to state that he would not be classed with the people there. The man that put his residence as Agnew before, has since been to town and had snakes in his boots. He would rather like that man to pay him for the straw which he purchased of him (Mr. Sheehan,) when he was unable to buy hay.
The Grand Haven Courier~Journal points with a deal of pride to the fact that while out in last week’s blizzard the Stmr. Lora of the Vandalia line, after making unsuccessful attempts to enter St. Joseph, Racine and Milwaukee harbors was obliged to run to Grand Haven for shelter. And well may the people of that city feel proud, for through the influence of the D., G. H. & M. R. R. and other corporations Uncle Sam has certainly made for them an excellent harbor. But just wait till the new Holland Steamboat Company gets into working order and the new Stmr. City of Holland rips Black Lake up the back a few times, and we will show you a harbor to boast of in time.—Times, Holland
SWEENEY TAKEN TO JACKSON.
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Story of His Crime.
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Norman Sweeney has said good-by to Grand Haven. Ottawa County jail has closed its door to him, and Jackson Prison stands ajar and will be his residence for the nest five years. Good time will liberate him a year and a half sooner. He left this morning via the C. & W. M. in charge of Sheriff Keppel. He was driven in a cutter to the depot.
On Saturday night June 25yh, last, the barn of Luman Jenisen in Jenison was broken into, and a team of valuable horses with a platform spring wagon and a set of double harness stolen. The next day, Sunday, Sheriff Vaupell, traveled 65 miles to get some information of the thief. Information was asked of every ferry tender in Ottawa County, but none could be obtained.
On Monday the sheriff started with a renewed determination to capture the man. He discovered that the thief was traveling south and at Clyde, Allegan county the best horse stolen from Mr. Jenison was found lying in the road dead. The same day Joseph Josh of Clyde reported a horse missing. His horse had been grazing in a pasture near where Jenison’s dropped dead. Evidently the thief had stolen him to replace the dead one.
It became evident that the man was driving hard, and along swampy highways. By Thursday June 30th the sher
