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Medford
News: 1892 The first three years of the
Medford Mail are
lost; 1892 is the newspaper's fourth year and the oldest to survive.
Below are some highlights*:
U N D E R C O N S T R U C T I O N
J. M. Weaver of Eugene is among our latest acquisitions, having
purchased the old I.O.O.F. cemetery for a residence location, paying
$65 per acre for the land. He owns a large tract of land in the upper
Rogue River country, and intends to carry on the ranching business
while residing in the lower valley.
L. G. Porter has about completed setting out five acres in choice fruit trees at his place near town, and will build him a nice residence in the spring. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, January 1, 1892, page 2 The combined planing mill and sash and door factory of C. W. Skeel & Son is leveled to the ground this morning [by fire]. The mill was built four years ago being owned by the present firm some two years. "Local News," Medford Mail, January 7, 1892, page 3 C. W. Skeel & Son will begin immediately the erection of a new planing mill on the old site and expect to have it finished within sixty days. The mill will cover a much larger ground floor space and all the latest improvements in machinery, etc., will be used. G. W. Priddy has leased the brick yard, of which L. L. Angle had charge. Mr. Priddy intends to put a force of men to work turning out brick preparatory to the prospective extensive spring building boom. We are informed of parties in the East looking this way with the idea of organizing a development company in our midst for the purpose of advertising and settling up this part of Oregon. There is plenty of money back of the project and the prospects are that in the near future something definite will come to light. One or two of our responsible citizens are in communication with the projectors and a number of very interesting epistles have been exchanged. "Local News," Medford Mail, January 28, 1892, page 3 Walter Anderson, from Crescent City, brother of George Anderson, our soda manufacturer, has been in the city this week, looking over the field, intending to establish an ice factory in Medford. "Local News," Medford Mail, February 4, 1892, page 3 A. Jakes has sold out his butcher shop to Ed Wilkinson. Ed Wilkinson, our popular butcher, has just purchased 50 head of the finest beef cattle in Jackson County from Fred Barneburg. H. McCarthy of the Portland artificial ice firm of Johnson, McCarthy & Johnson has been in the city several days, and we learn his mission is to look over the field with the idea of establishing an ice factory in Medford. He thinks about a 6-ton plant could be made to pay, which would cost $10,000. It is to be hoped he will see his way clear in getting down to business. "Local News," Medford Mail, February 11, 1892, page 3 It is reported that a business college building will within a couple of weeks rear its material proportions towards the sky from somewhere near the public school. Angle & Plymale are taking out partitions in their store, which will make it one of the largest in this section. The Goldstone Bros., a firm lately from Eugene, are putting in a large stock of merchandise in the Cooper Building [for the New York Cheap Cash Store]. A. Jakes, who lately sold out his butcher shop at this place to E. Wilkinson, is at Grants Pass assisting Butcher Williams with his business. Although Mr. Jakes was established but a few months among us, his methods and his meats were first-class, and many regrets are expressed at his departure. "Local News," Medford Mail, February 18, 1892, page 3 About fifteen buildings are under construction and in contemplation in Barr's Addition. A bowling alley is the latest acquisition to Medford's recreative pastimes. A. M. Gregg is the "boss" of the alley, and it is located in the fire engine house. In the Cooper Block the Goldstone Bros., well known and reliable business men from Eugene, have this week opened up a large stock of dry goods and general merchandise. They make a fine display in every respect. The planing mill of C. W. Skeel & Son is being hurried to completion with a wonderful rapidity; the frame work is all up and the roof on and some of the machinery in place. The capacity is about double the old mill and the arrangements are modern and much more complete. The shafting is underneath the floor instead of overhead as in the old, thus giving more space overhead. It is expected the mill will be in full operation in thirty or forty days. "Local News," Medford Mail, February 25, 1892, page 3 Ice
Factory.
The Portland ice firm of Johnson, McCarthy & Johnson seem
desirous
of establishing a plant in this section of the country and one of the
firm has been here several times of late. They required a bonus of
several hundred dollars with the understanding that immediate work
would begin upon a several thousand dollar factory. A committee of our
prominent citizens have worked zealously for the last few days, and
part of the bonus has been raised. This will be tendered the company,
and it is expected they will accept it and begin operations at once.
Grants Pass offered this same company $1000 in cash and grounds upon
which to build, but the offer was refused, we understand, with the idea
of giving Medford the first chance, as this place was preferable.
Medford Mail, February 25, 1892, page 3
Harry Angle, Geo. B. Addington and Chas. Angel have of late been
amusing themselves hunting the jackrabbits in his native lair in the
hills to the east of town. The rabbits are as thick as fleas on a dog's
back in haying time. The hunters secured twenty-two of the long-eared
quadrupeds last Monday.
"Local News," Medford Mail, March 3, 1892, page 3 An ice plant of vast proportions is an assured fact in the immediate future for Medford. Let the good work go on. Editorial, Medford Mail, March 10, 1892, page 2 The hum of the planing mill is sweet music. Miss Verna Weaver, who recently came from Eugene, is prepared to do dressmaking in the latest style; will be found in room No. 5 over Angle & Plymale's store. Carl J. Johnson and family arrived Sunday from Wisconsin. There is some talk of organizing a tennis club in Medford. A normal school will be opened May 1st in connection with the Medford Business College. The Weeks' furniture is being moved from its present quarters to a building on the south end of Front Street. Why not call a meeting, ye baseball lovers, and organize a club that will be a pride to Medford and a source of terror to every club in the valley. "Local News," Medford Mail, March 10, 1892, page 3 AN ICE PLANT.
The Plans and Specifications Being Drawn Up in Portland.
Johnson, McCarthy & Johnson, of Portland, are at the present
writing having plans and specifications drawn up for an ice plant to be
established in Medford as soon as practicable.
The required bonus has been raised and the grounds secured and nothing now remains but the commencement of building operations to assure to Medford another feather in the cap of her advancement. The parties will be on the grounds in a few days when active work will begin. Medford Mail, March 10, 1892, page 3 The distillery began operations this week. The S.P.D.&L. Co., of Grants Pass, have put in a branch lumber yard here, of which Merriman & Johnson are agents. The city council has decided that the "cow ordinance" shall be enforced. All cattle, except milch cows, must not run at large within the city limits. There are some very handsome apples now for sale in Portland. They retail at $1.75 per box. We are told they are from the orchard of Mr. J. H. Stewart, of Medford, Or., whose article on "Over Production of Fruit" appeared in the last issue of this paper.--Rural Northwest S. A. D. Higgins, of Jacksonville, has purchased the building lately occupied by Weeks' furniture store, situated [at 20 North] Front Street, and has fitted the place up for a billiard hall, and moved his stock and furniture over here from Jacksonville. Nothing but temperance drinks are sold, and the place is quite attractive. "Local News," Medford Mail, March 17, 1892, page 3 The bowling alley is attracting a good deal of attention, both ladies and gentlemen indulging in the sport. "Local News," Medford Mail, March 31, 1892, page 3 W. J. Fredenburg's two-story brick residence is going ahead slowly on account of wet weather. E. P. Walker has purchased the livery stable lately purchased by Mr. Fawcett from Mr. H. Huff. Mr. Walker will keep a first-class stable at this stand which will be known by the name of "Alliance Livery Stable." ["Alliance" is likely a reference to the Farmer's Alliance and People's Party. An ad run in the April 22, 1892 Mail lists the partners running the enterprise as "Murray & Walker."] "Local News," Medford Mail, April 7, 1892, page 3 Mrs. D. G. Ross has opened a first-class restaurant in this city in the building lately occupied by the cigar factory. Meals at all hours and at all prices can be had at this house and the table is always spread with the best the markets afford. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, April 22, 1892, page 3 SAMUEL EARHART, formerly a prominent citizen of Blacklick Township, died recently at his home in Medford, Jackson County, Ore. He had resided there about six years. He was about 55 years of age and leaves a widow and six children. "Recent Deaths," The Gazette, Indiana, Pennsylvania, April 27, 1892, page 4 The foundation for the brewery and ice plant is being hurried forward and before long the factory will be well under way. Judge Tresler and family arrived Sunday from Central City, Neb., to take charge of their property here, having exchanged property in Nebraska with W. P. Woods for a house and lot near the school house. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, April 29, 1892, page 3 Bicycling is all the rage in town at present and a club is talked of. J. H. Faris has gone out of the hotel business and is now living in his elegant residence in the western part of the city. We understand the [Jacksonville] Silver Cornet Band is no more. The old Medford Band is booming and will be heard no doubt a number of times during the campaign. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, May 6, 1892, page 3 Jesse Enyart, who left Logansport about three years ago and located in Medford, Oregon, writes to his old friend, J. D. Ferguson, that he likes the country and is doing remarkably well. He is now assistant cashier of the Jackson County Bank and secretary and treasurer of the Medford Wire Brace Fence Co. He will pay Logansport a visit during the World's Fair. "Locals," Logansport (Indiana) Reporter, May 9, 1892, page 4 Mr. Ely is having a one-story 25x26 brick built just off 7th Street on C, which will be occupied by a butcher shop we understand as soon as completed. The work of improving C Street has begun. The combination ice house and brewery will soon be in operation. We will have ice about June 1. The building is enclosed and the machinery will soon be in place. A force of men are pushing matters as fast as the weather permits. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, May 13, 1892, page 3 The bakery has moved to the old photograph gallery building. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, May 20, 1892, page 3 A sister of Ed Wilkinson lately arrived in this city from England. R. H. Whitehead has commenced the erection of an elegant residence on South C Street. J. A. Goff has purchased the Medford photograph gallery from McBride & Case. We wish Mr. Goff success in his new venture. Mr. and Mrs. H. U. Lumsden, of San Jose, Calif., are expected here the latter part of this week and after a short visit will continue on to Portland, their future home. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, June 3, 1892, page 3 The Medford Gun Club have imported several pair of the Mongolian pheasant and will turn them loose for breeding purposes. Anyone killing these birds will suffer the penalty of the law, which is [a] $50 fine, we believe. W. H. Hosler returned from Eugene yesterday and conversation with Julius Goldsmith, who lately sold out his large grocery store in Medford and went into business in Eugene. Mr. Goldsmith said he was sick of the Willamette Valley as a business point and was coming back to Medford in the near future to make his living. Score another for Medford. The prospects are good that a cannery will be one of the next enterprises for Medford in the near future. The Salem Canning Co. have been making inquiries through Mr. J. Hockersmith, and have proposed that a stock company be formed and the farmers in this valley take $2,000 in stock. We understand that a number of our best orchardists have signified their willingness to take hold of the enterprise and no doubt the matter will soon be pushed to a success. It is certainly to be hoped this grand industry will be secured for Medford. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, June 10, 1892, page 3 R. H. Whitehead's new dwelling on C Street is in the hands of the painters. The wife and family of Mr. Johnson, of the brewery and ice works, arrived from Portland Sunday to make Medford their future home. W. F. Griffis is having erected for himself a neat residence in the western part of the city. W. K. Davis and S. B. McGee are the contractors. The Medford Distilling Company have opened a warehouse in town on Front Street, where they have an excellent display of goods. See their advertisement in another column. The business college firm of Rigby & Hart has dissolved. The school will continue as usual under the immediate supervision of Prof. Rigby. Mr. Ross has disposed of the city restaurant business to a Mr. Eddy, of Ashland, and left for Roseburg Tuesday evening. The new proprietor will continue the business at the old stand. The Italian with his cage of parrots has shaken the dust of Medford from his feet in search of pastures new. The people of Medford have no money to give to a macaroni, garlic-scented individual, who seems too healthy to earn a living by honest toil. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, June 17, 1892, page 3 I. A. Webb received a brand-new "New Mail" bicycle direct from the factory this week. Ike thinks he can get the beast tamed down in a short time. "Additional Local," Southern Oregon Mail, June 24, 1892, page 2 W. L. Townsend now occupies the H. U. Lumsden property on C Street. J. T. Miller, one of the best nurserymen in the valley, was doing business in Medford Saturday. Mr. Miller's nursery is situated on the Leever Ranch near the fairgrounds and we learn that this nursery is being stocked with the best varieties of fruit trees obtainable. Mrs. S. E. Penwell has removed her bakery from the Medford House to the old photograph gallery, on B St. W. S. Barnum is having an elegant residence built on C Street. W. K. Davis and S. McGee are the contractors. Clyde Davis is learning the carpenter trade with his father. The J. H. Faris residence, in the western part of the city, is receiving the finishing touches from the hands of Walter Scott, who is an expert painter as well as a skillful carpenter. On the road between here and the river, C. W. Wolters has placed on trees and fences about two dozen large signs reminding people of the fact that Medford is the place to buy groceries. Charley understands advertising and knows that it pays. The machinery for the brewery and ice factory have arrived and are being placed. The machinery is immense and elegant and from the way things look at the factory it is safe to say this industry will rank second to none in this section. J. A. Whitman has returned from his trip to Portland and the Sound country. He says there is more building going on in Medford than in any place he visited while gone. The frogs, as it were, seem to be masters of the situation, and we confidently expect the council will be called upon to raise up in all its might, or words to that effect, and put a quietus on their hilarious and discordant strains. Let the good work of extermination be carried to a successful termination even if the troughs must be abated as a nuisance. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, June 24, 1892, page 3 A New Soda Fountain.
I. A. Webb has purchased the lot and house next to his residence from
Mrs. Barnum, of Ashland. He is remodeling the house into a fine barn.
J. A. Slover & Co. were the recipients this week of a fine
large
soda fountain which will ornament one of the counters in their neat and
tasty drug store. Jim expects to have it in good working order in a few
days, and as it is the only one in town they will be kept busy during
the Fourth and have a good trade all summer.
Southern Oregon Mail, June 24, 1892, page 3 The Klamath Lake Plateau.
Charles H. and Joseph G. Pierce, of Medford, Or., yesterday purchased
5000 acres of fine timber land on the Klamath Lake plateau. This
purchase was the second made by the Pierce Bros., they having purchased
10,000 acres of land in the same locality only a few months ago. In the
same locality Pardee, Cook & Co. of Chicago have purchased
14,000
and own besides 50,000 acres of government land adjoining. Together
with the Pierce Bros., the latter firm propose to at once begin the
working of the timber on their lands, and it is supposed that a large
number of men will be shortly employed.
The Morning Call, San Francisco, June 25, 1892, page 3 OREGON.
Medford.--The building for the ice factory and brewery was ready for the machinery June 1, but it was delayed by high water in the East.
Ice and Refrigeration, July 1892, page 41 Work was commenced on the M. C. Phipps brick on C Street this week. A. Childers & Son are doing the work. Our Southern Pacific depot is sporting the latest thing in train order signals. The signal is at the top of a long pole placed near the depot. Our readers can investigate for themselves better than we can describe it. All telegraph stations on the system are provided with the like apparatus. Hubbard Bros. are gathering in their farm machinery from their different branch houses. The machinery from Central Point was moved here this week, and a carload from Grants Pass will soon be here. Their stock will then be about complete. They are agents for the Northwest Implement Company. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, July 1, 1892, page 3 The Combination
Industry.
Rumors were rife on our streets this week relative to the completion of
the ice factory and brewery, and several had it that artificial ice
would be plenty about Saturday. This was getting interesting, and a Mail
reporter hied himself to the base of operations to get
at the
bottom of the business.
The reporter found all hands busy as bees setting up machinery and putting the finishing touches to the woodwork, etc. We had pleasant conversations with two of the firm, Messrs. McCarty and Johnson, who kindly showed us around the entire factory, and explained the differed different details and workings of how to make ice and beer. The factory will not be complete for some weeks, but it is expected that ice will be ready for sale in about two weeks, not before. This plant in every respect is first class, in fact the machinery and building are not duplicated anywhere in this part of the country. The combination compressor and engine is from the Johnson patent, and is of fifty horsepower. The capacity of the factory is about five tons of ice per day and twelve barrels of beer. The walls of the building and the different rooms, such as the storing, cooling, etc., are twelve inches in thickness, with two air chambers, giving a perfect circulation throughout. When everything is completed we will give a detailed account of all that goes to make up this great industry. Suffice it to say now that the importance of this plant in our midst is not half appreciated by our citizens, but we hope it will be when the output begins. Southern Oregon Mail, July 1, 1892, page 3 Slover has the only fountain in town and gives a large, foaming glass of soda for 5c. Ladies call at New York Cheap Cash Store on the 4th of July and get a fan free of charge. Note the address, Cooper brick. Medford boasts of a lawn tennis club and croquet club, and the members thereof can of evenings be seen at the ground on the Adkins premises swinging the racquet and handling the mallet. We have the material here for a first-class band, as was demonstrated on the 4th. It would please a great many citizens if the boys were encouraged to give open-air concerts during the summer. If this should be done, in a short while Medford could boast of the best band in the valley. The Southern Oregon Pork Packing Company received a carload of pork and lard direct from Denver, Col., last week. It was sent in a refrigerator car, and arrived in excellent shape. The pork will be cured and smoked at the company's establishment. Each day, just as the sinking sun is kissing the hilltops far around, may be seen much of Medford's youth and beauty quietly and sweetly strolling among the friendly trees that shade the roadway leading from town toward Roxy Ann. There the young man and maiden fair, free from all earth's intrusion, can safely warble their tales of love until the shadows of night, sternly closing down, admonish them that it is high time to return to "home and mother." Who knows but that ere summer is gone the little sprigs of affection now budding there will grow into great trees of love, the existence of which will create a demand for marriage licenses and the minister. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, July 8, 1892, page 3 W. Green has established a tailor shop in Medford in the old Faris Hotel. [His ad on page 2 locates the hotel at "7th and C streets."] He has a good display of goods and no doubt will receive his share of patronage. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, July 22, 1892, page 3 A. J. Fredenburg's fine brick residence is nearing completion. W. Green, the new merchant tailor of Medford, has just received the largest stock of goods ever brought to the Rogue River Valley, and as he is here to stay and build up a trade, he will make suits to order for $24 and up, and pants for six dollars and up. Step in and see his display. Fit guaranteed. All kinds of cleaning and repairing done. Old Faris Hotel building. L. G. Porter is building a residence for himself on his 5-acre lot. The city council has under advisement a proposition from Willamette capitalists to light Medford with electricity. The parties were here this week looking over the ground, and left their proposition. Brophy & Mathes, the new butcher firm of Medford, expect to be ready for business about the first of next week. The shop will be temporarily located in the building where the city meat market used to be, but will be moved to the brick on C Street back of Slover's Drug Store as soon as it is ready for occupancy. Watch for their adv. next week. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, July 29, 1892, page 3 To
Be or Not To Be.
Is it for the best? That is the question which the city council has
wrestled with for the last few days and which will be settled
definitely at the regular meeting next Monday evening. Shall the city
be lighted with electricity? Parties have been here this week and
proposed to the city council to put in a $12,000 electric plant and
furnish the city ten arc lights for $1,200 per year for so many years.
The council are muchly tempted to accept the offer, the particulars of
which of course we have not extended into. The property owners and
taxpayers are of course to be consulted, they having the more interest
at stake. But as the charter limit for city taxes--10 mills--has been
reached, this added expense will not raise taxes and therefore will not
be noticed, the only difference is this added expense will delay the
payment of the city's indebtedness just so much longer and of course
taxes will remain as they are at present until the town is out of debt.
However, as Medford claims to be the hub of the valley is it not time she was taking on somewhat more of a metropolitan air? There is no denying that improvements are at all times beneficial, and especially at this dull season of the year. It would without a doubt be a great feather in the city's cap if she could out inform the world that improvements within her limits are the order of the day even in the dullest season. Streets well lighted take on an attractive air and while serving as a good drawing card for capital, they enhance the value of property. Is it for the best? Southern Oregon Mail, July 29, 1892, page 3 The business college of Medford closed last Wednesday for one month's vacation, and will open again September 4, 1892, with flattering prospects. About sixty students will attend the coming term, and as a corps of competent teachers have been engaged, there is nothing to hinder this institution becoming first class in every respect. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, August 5, 1892, page 3 Medford is very modestly forging to the front as the principal town of our famous Rogue River Valley. More building is going on here than in any other town in Southern Oregon. Our businessmen enjoy the best trade. Better bargains can be had here with our merchants than can be secured elsewhere. If you are skeptical come to town and investigate for yourself. It would not be very surprising if the town would be without water for irrigating and fire purposes in a month or so more. Bear Creek is drying up fast. Had the town spent the money in digging wells at the water tank that it paid out for having the ditch dug, we no doubt would now have a good supply of water for all purposes. Editorials, Southern Oregon Mail, August
12, 1892, page 2
Business Change.
The
old and reliable firm of Adkins & Webb, who started into the
hardware business about the time Medford was founded, sold out their
big stock of goods to W. H. Simmons and F. B. Cathcart, of Sacramento.
The new firm expect to take charge about the first of next month, and
are bound to do well as the house enjoys a big trade.
Southern Oregon Mail, August 12, 1892, page 2 F. B. Cathcart took Monday morning's train for Sacramento. He will return in a few days bringing with him his family and household effects. W. H. Simmons' family will come along with them. The saloon men and business houses were notified last Saturday by a committee to keep their places of business closed on Sunday or the Sunday law would be enforced. No attention was paid to the threat. District Attorney Benson has been notified but hasn't showed up yet, so nothing has been done. But evidently there will be music in the air. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, August 12, 1892, page 3 Maxcy has moved his [soda fountain] into the Powell Building, just vacated by the City Restaurant. The Jacksonville marble man, J. C. Whipp, put up a neat tombstone Saturday in the I.O.O.F. cemetery over the grave of the departed wife of J. H. Brantner. Miss Lila Sackett has been selected as teacher in the Medford public schools, vice Miss Elva Galloway resigned. F. B. Cathcart, wife and family and Mrs. W. H. Simmons, arrived Wednesday evening from Sacramento to make this city their future home. Messrs. Simmons and Cathcart are the gentlemen that bought out Adkins & Webb. The Johnson, McCarthy & Johnson ice plant turned out its first ice Tuesday, it being four inches thick. The output will be immense as soon as everything gets in good working order. The proprietors have had much bad luck to contend with but they think all difficulties are now surmounted, as the machinery is working nicely. Large cakes of ice weighing 240 pounds were taken out Wednesday. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, August 19, 1892, page 3 N. Ahlstrom reports that the circus that exhibited back of the new depot in Ashland three years ago introduced the Canada thistle into that neighborhood, and notwithstanding that he has cut it down several times it keeps on increasing every year and will soon threaten to overrun the whole country if some effort is not made to wipe it out. The authorities should see that this dangerous pest is nipped in its incipiency.--Ashland Record. "All Sorts," Southern Oregon Mail, August 19, 1892, page 3 L. G. Porter expects to move into his new residence east of the creek in about two weeks. The new hardware firm of Simmons & Cathcart have been awarded the contract by the city to lay water pipes, etc., as advertised. Even the ladies pitched in and worked and carried water at the late fire. That was a wonderful bucket brigade. The hot coffee distributed among the workers at the fire last Tuesday morning by Mrs. I. A. Webb was a very thoughtful and kindly act and fully appreciated by all. Widow Kime's barn on the old Shideler place, near Bashford's, southwest of town, burned to the ground Monday of this week. Considerable hay was lost. Cause unknown. Our people here feel under lasting obligations to Jacksonville for the loan of its hand engine in the time of need, and to its citizens also, who turned out so generously, a debt of gratitude is owing. Wilson & Dowell have moved their wagon shop out of the Damon Building which stood on the Amann property on C Street. Mr. Damon has taken the building down, and the wagon shop is now located back of the blacksmith shop. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, August 26, 1892, page 3 Fire! Fire!
Our
city was saved, and that by a miracle and hours of hard and hot work,
but A. A. Davis, of the flour mills, is the loser by about 200 cords of
cord and slab fir wood. The fire occurred last Tuesday morning at about
1 o'clock, the origin of which is unknown, but as usual there are no
end of theories advanced.
This immense pile of wood stood about 50 feet west of the flour mill, and only because the wind was favorable can it be said that all that portion of the city in the vicinity of the fire escaped devastation by the terrible flames. Of course we do not forget that even though the elements were kind, the mill and all property adjacent would have burned ten times over had it not been that our citizens turned out by the score with buckets and drained every well in the neighborhood. How they did work with buckets and carpets and small hose until broad daylight! A harvest of blistered hands and faces and stiff joints tell the tale. Finally the Jacksonville suction well fire apparatus was sent for and speedily subdued what was left of the terrible fire fiend's handiwork. What of Medford's water supply? There was none! No water in the ditch for two days previous, and what little there was in the tank the fire boys made good use of. The lesson was a costly one to Davis, the sufferer, but perhaps cheaper in the end. Phoenix citizens had been given permission to use for irrigating what little water there was in the ditch at this season of the year, providing they would clean out the ditch, and thus Medford found itself almost in the "soup," as the saying is. But there let us be thankful all is as well as it is. We will only add that there is a certain clique who on these occasions always hold aloof from any good work that might be rendered. They sit or lounge around, making side remarks, and even hindering the public-spirited workers who know no fatigue. Southern Oregon Mail, August 26, 1892, page 3 Fire Bugs.
"Gentlemen, evidently there are fire bugs among us." The above remark,
and there surely is reason for it, can be heard on all sides in Medford
these days. The burning of Davis' wood, which came so near proving
fatal to our beautiful little city, aroused well-grounded suspicion
that it was the work of malicious hands, but the straw which broke the
camel's back was laid on about midnight on Wednesday, when flames were
discovered on the corner of the warehouse belonging to the R.R.V.R..
and standing close to their depot. The fire was almost immediately
extinguished, consequently no damage resulted. That oil was used this
time there is ample proof. An old can partly filled with white lead was
also found on the spot, and this led to a suggestion that perhaps
spontaneous combustion might explain away the mystery, but this is
hardly satisfactory. If human hands are doing this devilish work, and
should the perpetrators be apprehended, woe betide their fate. Hanging
is too good for such as they.
Southern Oregon Mail, August 26, 1892, page 3 Special Meeting.
A
special meeting of the town board was called Tuesday afternoon to
consider the water question. All citizens were invited to attend the
meeting with the board. Provision was made for the immediate
construction of two large headgates to store water for emergencies such
as arose Monday night. Also the water committee was authorized to
appoint a night engineer forthwith for the time of one month, pending
the settlement of the well question. A mass meeting was called for this
(Friday) evening at 8 p.m., in the opera house, to which all citizens
interested are urgently requested to attend. At this meeting steps will
be taken to procure the sinking of an artesian well without further
delay. It was certainly almost the unanimous sense of the meeting that
a deep well, artesian or otherwise, was indispensable, and the sooner
dug the better.
Southern Oregon Mail, August 26, 1892, page 3 J. R. Wilson's new house is being rushed along nicely. The monkey and the bagpipes made the rounds of town this week. The business college is now furnished throughout with new furniture and presents a homelike and business appearance. Brophy & Mathes are now quartered in their new butcher shop on C Street just off 7th, where they are prepared to serve the best of meats. John Wolters, the late Jacksonville baker, has moved to Medford and will run the bakery of C. W. Wolters. As Mr. Wolters is a master at the business his wares are sure to be in demand. Rev. E. E. Thompson, late pastor of the Methodist Church of this city, has been appointed to fill the pulpit for the coming year at Grants Pass. Rev. E. E. Phipps will succeed Mr. Thompson. Rev. E. S. Thompson has been transferred from Central Point to Roseburg. The barn of John Ocander burned to the ground Sunday night. The origin of this fire is only one among several mysterious blazes which have occurred in town with[in] the week. One of the outbuildings of the school house was also scorched the other night, but prompt action prevented much damage. The mysterious purpose of this hellish work is only equalled by the invisibleness of the culprits. The ice factory is running at night at present and lying idle during the day. This is a precaution taken to ward off any attempt to set fire to the plant by firebugs. The boys of Medford are tolled off the streets these nights at nine o'clock by the Grand Central Hotel bell. This is a good law and should always be enforced. A. A. Davis went north Saturday to look after his milling interests on the Sound. The mill at this place is being repainted to obliterate the marks left by the late fire. The mill is running night and day at present. C. N. Hastings of Sprague, Washington, is night miller and W. Halley, night engineer. Wm. Olwell is still general superintendent. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, September 2, 1892, page 3
County Treasurer Bloomer waddled into town Sunday on his bicycle.
The woodwork and brickwork of the bank has been repainted in bright colors and looks nobby. Mr. E. Allen is building himself a neat residence on his property in the new part of town near the Faris place. A. J. Daley of Butte Creek has had the building formerly occupied by John Watkins moved to the old post office and fitted up as an office for Dr. Stanfield. The placing of ice on sale in the various towns of this valley by the Medford factory at the low rate of one cent per pound will enable all to enjoy this essential luxury. The town board of Medford has notices out offering a reward of $450 for the arrest and conviction of the guilty parties causing the late fires in this city. It is a good move. J. W. Smith is busy making improvements in the way of fences, etc., on his lately purchased ranch east of town. Mr. Smith is a progressive citizen and understands the business of ranching. Several loads of venison have been sold on our streets the past two weeks. The new water main near the school house fills a long-felt want, and those new sidewalks are substantial improvements. Now for a fence. The street commissioner has put down a new crossing at the alley between the post office and G. L. Davis' grocery. There are no end of improvements going on in this burg, which is all that is needed to prove that our city is progressing rapidly and substantially. Dr. E. B. Pickel has been making some substantial improvements about his residence and property where he resides. The house has been moved back from the street and the foundation raised, while the lot has been filled in and leveled. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, September 9, 1892, page 3 Notice.
We have moved into our new shop on C Street, and are now prepared to
serve the public with everything in our line. Thanking you for your
past patronage, we hope, by fair dealing, to merit a continuance of the
same.
We are yours anxious to please, BROPHY &
MATHES.
Southern
Oregon Mail, September 9, 1892, page 3
THE USUAL RESULT.
ASHLAND,
Sept. 13.--T. A. Harris, proprietor of the Grand Central Hotel at
Medford, was accidentally shot and probably fatally wounded yesterday
forenoon near Big Butte post office, in this county. He was on a
hunting trip with three other men, one of whom, George Neuber of
Jacksonville, was riding in a buggy with Harris. Neuber was climbing
into the buggy hurriedly with a shotgun loaded with buckshot in his
hand when the hammer struck on something and one barrel was discharged,
the charge entering Harris' body at the hip and penetrating portions of
the abdomen. Medical aid was immediately summoned, but it is thought
that the unfortunate man can live but a short time.Fatal Result of Carelessly Handling a Loaded Gun. The Morning Call, San Francisco, September 14, 1892, page 2 The Jacksonville, Oregon Courier says: "William Hall, of Winnipeg, Manitoba, was at Medford Sunday, accompanied by his wife. Mr. H. has charge of the business of the Northern Pacific Express Co. at Winnipeg, and has been taking a 30-day vacation, most of which was spent in attending the Knights Templar conclave at Denver, Colorado. He came around this way for the purpose of inspecting the splendid orchard of the Orchard Home Association, near Medford, in which he invested last winter. Mr. Hall was highly pleased with the orchard, promises to buy more and will make a favorable report upon it to his friends in Manitoba, where Oregon fruit is quite well known." Winnipeg Free Press, Manitoba, September 14, 1892, page 6 Contractor Lyons has just finished a large and elegant greenhouse for S. A. Sutter of this place. This winter flower house is the finest in its line in this section. D. S. Youngs has resigned the marshalship and Tom Morine has been appointed in his stead. Mr. Youngs will put in a new and large stock in his store and will devote his whole time to the business. The streets were filled with people last Saturday, and [a] large number of farmers' teams were hitched about town. Trade will liven up again now, since the crops are harvested. W. H. Parker, of Jacksonville, has rented the G. W. Howard property in this city and will move his family here. The circuit court has decided that Judge Walton has no jurisdiction in the Sunday closing case, lately on trial in this city. This winds up the matter. Mrs. M. Ragsdale, whose husband was taken to the insane asylum about a month ago, has moved to Medford from Big Butte and is building a residence on the property purchased from Geo. W. Wallace. Lake of the Woods seems the favorite rendezvous of Southern Oregon pleasure seekers just now. Ashland, Medford, Grants Pass, Keno and Linkville all had delegates there last week, while Buck Lake was represented by the famous bear slayer, John Griffin, who enlivened the evening hours of the night. The city water tank is kept running day and night now by engineers E. G. Hurt and H. E. Baker. A dam has been placed in Bear Creek making a headworks to keep a good flow of water in the ditch supplying the water tank and thus insuring a fair pressure in the waterworks in case of a fire these dry times. The concert at the opera house last Friday, given by the ladies of the Benevolent Society for the benefit of the hose company, was amusing and entertaining. A packed house was present. The entertainment netted about $57, including the donation of $5 each by Judge Crawford and Mrs. Dennison. The forest fire is crawling northward toward the headwaters of Anderson Creek and if not checked by rain may reach Jacksonville by Christmas. It is likely to make a large and better grazing ground for deer and other stock. So there is not so much loss as gain anyhow. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, September 16, 1892, page 3 TO THE PUBLIC.
On account of the possible contagion of the dread disease, Cholera, you
are requested to use extra care in all matters of a sanitary nature:
see that all garbage in back yards or vacant buildings or lots is
gathered and burned; that all water closets or cesspools of any kind
are properly and speedily cleaned and disinfected; that wells or
cisterns are kept clean and wholesome; in short that all disease germs
caused by waste may so far as possible be destroyed. The town
authorities will use all efforts to put the town in a good sanitary
condition and ask all citizens to consider themselves a sanitary
committee to assist in this matter.
J. A. WHITESIDE, Mayor.
MEDFORD, ORE., Sept. 12, 1892.
Southern Oregon Mail, September 16, 1892, page 3 Those who are interested will be sorry to learn that the railroad company are not making any contracts for wood. Nannie Barr has transferred to Ella Woodford lots 13, 14, 15, and 16 of block 44 in Medford, for $374. L. G. Porter has moved to his property east of Bear Creek. Horace Nicholson has charge of D. H. Miller's hardware store during the latter's absence in Portland. Horace informs us he will embark in business for himself in a few weeks. Medford will ship about 50,000 bushels of apples this season. This is more than any other point by a good deal. The same can be said of peaches, prunes, etc. In the Sunday closing case from this city we stated last week that the circuit court had decided that Judge Walton had no jurisdiction in the premises. This is erroneous, and we wish to set the matter right. The circuit court dismissed the case on motion of the counsel for the saloon men, so that puts the parties back to where they were in the beginning. Cobble gutters will replace the present wooden ones in our streets. Stone is being hauled for the purpose. Our streets are also to be graded with sand. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, September 23, 1892, page 3 Z. E. McCubbin has sold lots 5 and 6 in block 6 of Park Addition to W. S. Conkling for $80. Wm. Ulrich has purchased of Paul Chartrand lots 8, 9 and 10 in block 11 in this city for $675. Geo. H. Andrews last week sold lots 11 and 12 in block 53 in this city to Wm. Ulrich. Consideration $160. Mr. McKay and family, of Modoc County, Cal., arrived in town this week and moved into the Chas. Damon residence. The record tells us that the O.&T. Co. has transferred to D. H. Miller and Chas. Strang lots 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18 block 55 in Medford, for $390. J. A. Brown last week purchased lots 5 and 6 in block 89 in this city of L. C. Montague for $150 and immediately transferred them to G. W. Howard for $100. A large quantity of apples is being hauled from the Applegate section, for shipment to California. The fruit is of fine quality and commands 65 cents a box delivered at Medford. J. O'Hara has purchased the residence occupied by Dr. S. Danielson. Fred. Barneburg, while at Portland at the convention, blew out the gas in a hotel and went to bed. I. A. Webb happened to enter the room in time to save Mr. Barneburg's life, but it was a close call. The reported sale of the Grand Central Hotel has not been consummated as yet. Messrs. Neuber and Armstrong are figuring on purchasing the business but have not taken charge. Reasonable people are finding little fault with the advances Medford is making. People visiting other sections for awhile and then returning here are astonished at the growth of our town. We are in it. A sleight of hand manipulator with ventriloquistic proclivities performed payingly on the depot square a couple of evenings this week. People always seem to have money to spend on these occasions and great crowds elbowed their way to the front. Mr. Woody, who some time since purchased the Van Sickle property back of the Baptist Church, moved his family in on Wednesday of this week. Clarence Kellogg, day engineer in Davis' flour mills, expects to soon leave for Portland, to take a position as engineer on one of the riverboats. John W. Curry, so long connected with the establishment of Angle & Plymale of this city, will leave for Albion, Calif., on the first of next week, to take charge of the books in a large establishment there. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, September 30, 1892, page 3 The best five-cent cigar in town is the Pride of Medford cigar, for sale by Davis & Pottenger. The records show that Jason Kellogg last week transferred lot 11 of block 13 in Medford to C. D. Kellogg. A farewell dance was given to Jno. Curry and wife, at the opera house Monday evening, which was attended by a large number of young ladies and gentlemen of this vicinity. Mr. Curry left for his new field Tuesday morning. The large circle of friends of the family express much regret at their departure. The Mail wishes them success in their new home. J. H. Shideler and family have returned from Linn County and will live at Medford. They were visiting friends at Colestin, Dollarhide's and Ashland last week. Miss Lou Gibson, the postal telegraph operator who has taken several months' vacation, is back at her post in the Grand Central Hotel. Miss Rose Buckley, who has attended to the keys in the absence of Miss Gibson, will accept a position to teach in the business college. L. M. Lyon has sold his six-acre tract east of town to Mr. Hooker, lately from Morrow County, for $600. C. H. Godfrey has exchanged his 80-acre tract near Coker's Hill east of town to a Mr. Phillips, for a farm near Springfield, Mo. Geo. Hamlin has purchased the Webster tract of 100 acres, one and one-half miles southwest of this city, for $4,000. At the regular meeting of the City Council last Monday, it was decided not to cobblestone the gutters at present, but the streets will be graded immediately. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, October 7, 1892, page 3 W. P. H. Legate and family are back in Medford to reside permanently. S. Tomlinson has transferred lots 3 and 4 of block 56, in this city, to John H. Curry. Albert A. Hall to Jacob Johnson, lots 1 and 2, block 15, Medford, $1500, so the records tell us. Mrs. Jackson has purchased W. P. Wood's interest in the property on C Street where the Mail office is. "We ARE carpenters," said "Old Nick," standing off and surveying the partially constructed engine house which is being built next to Holton's tailor shop. From the records we learn that D. J. Lumsden has sold to Wm. Allison lots 5 and 6 in block 3 of Lumsden's addition to Medford, consideration $40. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, October 14, 1892, page 3 FURIOUS
FLAMES.
Medford Is Again Visited by the Fire Fiend.
Shortly after four o'clock a.m. yesterday (Thursday) the cry of fire
rang out clear and startling and almost in a less space of time than it
takes to tell it, our slumbering city was rudely awakened, and our
citizens on rushing forth witnessed one of the principal corners in
Medford in a mass of flames, which lighted up the city for blocks in
every direction
It is supposed the fire started in Green's tailor shop on C Street just off of Main, by the explosion of a lamp, which was kept burning nightly in the shop. A. J. Brophy, brother of Jeff Brophy, our butcher, who rooms over Slover's drug store, claims to have witnessed the explosion from his window and of course he immediately gave the alarm which was responded to nobly by the fire company and citizens. In round numbers the loss by fire, water and damage in removing will approximately $6,000. Below we give the losses, insurance, &c., as near as possible at this time: W. Green, merchant tailor, loss, $1,700; insurance, $1,250. G. L. Webb, Racket Store, loss unknown; insurance $1000. D. T. Pritchard, jeweler, loss $1000; fully insured. M. S. Damon, shoe store, loss by removing, etc., about $200; insured against fire. Vawter & Howard, building and barn, loss $1,400; insurance, $800. Clarence Kellogg, building, loss $200; fully insured. San Francisco drummer, building, partly lost, insured. J. H. Thorndike, feed store, loss by removing; insured. J. R. Wilson, household goods and variety store, slight loss by removing; no insurance. Ed. Wilkinson, butcher, slight loss by removing; insured. Jas. A. Slover & Co., druggists, slight loss by water; insured. S. Rosenthal, clothier, slight loss by water; insured. The doctors' instruments and books, over Slover's drug store, were also damaged considerably. Hutchison & Enyart, hay, $25,00; no insurance. Numerous other small losses are sustained by citizens of which we have no data. NOTES OF
THE FIRE.
Several cans of coal oil, which stood in one corner of G. L. Webb's
store, came out whole--that is the oil came out of the hot flames
whole, but the cans were melted and scorched. A queer incident.
D. T. Pritchard, the jeweler, lost no time in hanging out his sign, even while the flames were still unsubdued. He can be found on Front Street in Palm's old stand. The fire boys did excellent work and deserve credit. Postmaster Howard did some good work in the business college, by dragging out the benches and firing them off the veranda into the street. Mr. Scott reports that in the absence of himself and family at the fire, burglars ransacked his residence, helping themselves to eatables, etc. Southern Oregon Mail, October 21, 1892, page 3 Josephine Poe has purchased lots 5 and 6 of block 40 in Medford of E. F. Walker for $200. I. M. Harvey of Medford sold to J. L. Wigle, lately from Halsey, 36 acres west of Medford for $2160. We learn from the records that W. H. Hosler has transferred to Martha Hosler lots 7 to 15 of block 4, Park Addition to Medford, for $100. Dr. S. Danielson is moving in his new residence on the Mingus tract. Mr. O'Hara will occupy the house vacated by the doctor on C Street. C. W. Wolters has taken out the partition in his grocery store, which enlarges the place to almost double the size heretofore, making it one of the largest groceries in Medford. We are pleased to note the prosperity of this popular grocery. A Spiritualist held forth for two nights in this city this week. Medford boasts of a large number of followers of Spiritualism. Several new sidewalks are being put down in this city, which are good improvements. The grading of the streets is a good thing at the right time. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, October 21, 1892, page 3 The city council has condemned one of the partly burned buildings of the last week's fire. W. Fowler has sold lot 10 in block 52 in Medford to Bessie Thompson for $70. Lot 5 in block 15 of Medford has been purchased by W. F. Shawver of P. B. O'Neil for $500. G. L. Webb has temporarily located the Racket Store in H. G. Nicholson's implement house, two doors from [the] Mail office. Soon as the place is ready the Racket Store will be moved into the back of the building occupied by Slover's drug store. The oyster house of Maxcy's is becoming quite popular. The Wolters grocery has been enlarged, repainted and the ceilings kalsomined, which gives this establishment quite a metropolitan appearance. The Racket [Store] badly singed but still in the ring. Will soon have a new stock. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, October 28, 1892, page 3 Isaac Woolf has returned from California. Simmons & Cathcart are having the front of their hardware store repainted by Milton Maule. W. S. Jones has purchased of J. R. Standley lots [sic] 3 block 38 in Medford for $40. Real estate transfer: Wm. Slinger to Lou Della Jones, lots 17 and 18, block 46 in Medford for $190. The Medford Business College is steadily growing in favor and attendance. Several new students this week. Jeweler E. L. Brown has vacated the Standly brick on C Street and is now occupying the Wood harness shop building. Night miller Hastings of the A. A. Davis flour mill of this city departed for Walla Walla, Wash., last Sunday where he will take a position in a flour mill. The Davis mill will not run of nights hereafter. The jewelry firm of Chute & Campbell, lately established in this city, has broken up, Mr. Campbell having gone to California and Mr. Chute taking charge of the business and moving everything to Klamath Falls. Numerous important changes will shortly be made in the management and appointments of the Grand Central Hotel. The family of mine host Purdin are moving into the hotel. Mrs. Harris is now living with her mother, Mrs. Tice. The ladies' benevolent society of Medford has at last disposed of Arthur Robison, better known as "Monk." He has been placed in the reform school at Salem. This is only one of the many laudable acts performed by the society. The dinner to be given on election day in Medford promises to be well worth partaking of. The repast will be served in the buildings damaged by the late fire. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, November 4, 1892, page 3 The Mail seems to have suspended publication after the election. *For more complete names of persons identified by initials, see the Index. |
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