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Ansil A. Davis and the Medford Roller Mills The Medford Roller Mills were on South Front Street, on the northeast corner of Front and Ninth.  An attempt will be made to induce someone to establish a flouring mill at this place. Dr. Adkins, D. H. Miller and B. W. Powell have been appointed as a committee by the board of trade to solicit contributions toward a fund which will be offered as a bonus to someone who will establish that enterprise. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, November 25, 1887, page 3 Our prospects for a flouring mill seem to be good. A gentleman from Portland is in town and agrees to put up a large mill at this place if a certain subsidy will be raised, and it is likely that his terms will be acceded to. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, December 9, 1887, page 2 Medford has raised the $2000 bonus and will have a flouring mill. "Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, December 22, 1887, page 3 The bonus asked by Gove & Co., a Portland firm, to put up a flouring mill at this place, being about subscribed, we expect to see this enterprise established here in time for next season's crop. The liberality of our people is to be commended. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, December 23, 1887, page 2 Mr. Schultz, representing Gove & Co. of Portland, who have agreed to build a grist mill here, has been in town lately and selected a site where to locate the enterprise. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, January 27, 1888, page 3 It is reported that the parties who promised to put up a flouring mill at this place have crawfished, and the prospects for such an enterprise are not so bright as they were, we are sorry to say. Medford needs and should have this mill. The cash bonus of $2000 is said to be open to any responsible party who will give us the enterprise. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 10, 1888, page 2 The flouring mill enterprise is said to have collapsed. It is also reported that the water right, necessary thereto, has been taken up and must be purchased, which is another drawback. We are very sorry to learn that such a state of affairs exists, as the mill would have been a great help to our town. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 24, 1888, page 2 Mr. Schultz, who is to build a flouring mill at this place, has purchased of A. S. Jacobs a half interest in the property known as the Riddle House. He is making a bid for the balance of this fine property, and if he can buy it will purchase adjoining buildings on D Street, and not only increase the extent of the hotel but raise the whole to two stories. Mr. Schultz will, in addition to this, erect the mill this season. Southern Oregon Transcript, Medford, March 13, 1888, page 2 J. E. Drucks, late of Portland, will soon begin the erection of a large roller flouring mill. "Medford Notes," Oregonian, Portland, May 17, 1888, page 3 The citizens of Medford, with their accustomed enterprise, have made arrangements with parties from Minneapolis, Minn., to establish a fine, large flouring mill, with the latest improvements, in our town. This will no doubt prove of great benefit to southern Oregon in general. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, January 24, 1889, page 2 A big grist mill for Medford is one of the certainties. Hurrah for the enterprise of our leading citizens. A. A. Davis of Albert Lea, Minn., is the gentleman who proposes putting up a patent roller mill here, and has already purchased considerable real estate. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, January 31, 1889, page 3 J. B. Coyle went to Medford last week to take a look at that new railroad town. He reports that he finds Medford one of the thriving towns. The people are going ahead with public works, investing money and making the town boom. They are erecting a big flour mill and will have an electric light plant before the summer is over.--[Roseburg Plaindealer. "Here and There," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 28, 1889, page 3 Work has been begun on the new flouring mill near the stock yards, and it will be ready for business by next harvest. It will be equipped with modern machinery throughout. Mr. Davis, who with Jos. France is engaged in putting up the grist mill at this place, has gone to Minnesota for the purpose of settling up his business affairs, and will return in a few months. Meanwhile the construction of the building will progress. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, March 7, 1889, page 3 Work on the flouring mill is progressing rapidly under the supervision of one of the proprietors, Jos. France. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, March 14, 1889, page 3 A. A. Davis left last Tuesday for Chicago, where he goes to purchase the machinery for the flour mill.
"Medford Items," Ashland Tidings, March 15, 1889, page 3 The grist mill is moving steadily forward. The stone foundation is already finished. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, March 28, 1889, page 3 On Monday last work was begun on the framework of the new grist mill. It will be rapidly pushed to completion, and it is thought will be ready to handle a portion of the growing grain crop this season. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, May 2, 1889, page 2 A neat residence is being built in town for A. A. Davis of Minnesota, the mill man. Lumber for the big grist mill is being hauled from Welch's in Meadows precinct and is rapidly put into the building. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, May 9, 1889, page 3
Our grist mill is looming
up nicely.
"Medford
Squibs," Democratic
Times, Jacksonville, May 16, 1889, page 3A. A. Davis' new residence in the western part of town has been completed. It is one of the finest buildings in town. The work on the new grist mill is progressing nicely. The siding is all on and the roof, which is to be of iron, will be put on the first of next week. The machinery is expected to be here by the 10th of June. "Medford Items," Ashland Tidings, May 24, 1889, page 2 The machinery for the big grist mill is expected to arrive next week. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, May 30, 1889, page 3 A ROLLER MILL FOR MEDFORD.--Work has been commenced on a roller mill of a daily capacity of sixty barrels, and it is expected that the mill will be ready to grind the coming crop. Power will be supplied at a cost of several thousand dollars, which will run the mill for at least eight months in the year. Steam will have to be relied upon at other times. The West Shore, Portland, June 1889, page 348. Steam ran the mill at all times. Davis & France's fine, large mill building is finished, and the machinery will be received in a few days. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, June 6, 1889, page 3 Mr. France is of the opinion that the flouring mill will be ready for business by August 1st next. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, June 13, 1889, page 3 The machinery for Davis & France's grist mill has nearly all arrived and is rapidly being put into position. We will soon have the finest mill in southern Oregon. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, June 20, 1889, page 3 The machinery for the new grist mill has arrived, and has already been placed in position. Mr. Davis returned with his family Wednesday. "Medford Items," Ashland Tidings, June 21, 1889, page 2 The mechanics are putting in the elevator and conveyor system in the new grist mill, which will soon be ready to handle the crops in this vicinity. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, June 27, 1889, page 3 Capt. A. L. Kidder of Meadows precinct was here on Tuesday. He has been assisting in the construction of the Medford flouring mills. "Here and There," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, July 11, 1889, page 3 France & Davis will soon have their new mill running. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 1, 1889, page 3 The new grist mill steamed up for the first time on Tuesday. They will begin grinding the first of next week. Medford can now boast of the finest roller mill in Southern Oregon. "Medford Items," Ashland Tidings, August 2, 1889, page 3 N. H. Spencer of Griffin Creek delivered the first wheat at the new mill last week. Davis & France are receiving wheat at their new mill. They will soon have a warehouse in operation also. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 8, 1889, page 2 IN OPERATION.--The new flouring mill at Medford is in full operation. About a week ago the machinery was in place and the engine steamed up for a trial of the machinery, and after a few hours' running to get the different bearings regulated, the mill commenced work first on chop, then on the manufacture of flour. There are four floors, including the basement, which is occupied with a boiler and engine and heavy pinion wheels that turn the machinery above. The first floor proper contains the complete roller machinery, made by E. P. Allis, and takes the place of the old burr. There are four of these mills, which are equal to four run of burrs. There are no burrs in the mill. The second floor contains the purifying machinery, which takes the place of the old bolt, under the burr and bolt system of making flour. This machinery is called the scalper and cyclone. The third floor contains the machinery that cleans the grain, and takes the place of the old-time fanning mill and smutter, and the grain passing through this apparatus is divested of all foreign substances, such as grains of oats, smut, cheat, shrunken and imperfect grains of wheat, leaving the grain absolutely clean and pure, ready for the rollers. L. Rouse and his brother D. Rouse are the millwrights who built this mill and placed the machinery.--Mail. Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 15, 1889, page 1 Patent
Flour.
Messrs. Davis & France, of the Medford Roller Mills, yesterday
presented the Times
office with a sample sack of the fine flour which they are making, and
an inspection by experienced hands proves it to be of the finest
quality. The neat and attractive packages in which it is put upon the
market will doubtless help to make it what its name implies, "Hard to
Beat." It is manufactured by the straight roller process--gradual
reduction--no burrs being employed. Look out for their advertisement
next week.Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 15, 1889, page 3 Our new mill is manufacturing a superior quality of flour, which is highly spoken of by all who have used it. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 15, 1889, page 3 Much wheat is being contracted for by Messrs. Davis & France, who expect to build up a fine trade in the product of their new roller mills. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 22, 1889, page 3 The ladies all praise the new roller process flour made by the Medford mills. The Medford roller mills shipped their first carload of flour to Yreka last Friday. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 29, 1889, page 3 Two carloads of fine flour were shipped from the roller mills to Grants Pass last week. The new roller mills are securing the cream of the wheat that comes to this market. The roller mills are compelled to run 15 hours per day to keep up with the demand for their fine flour. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, September 5, 1889, page 2 Attention is called to the new advertisement of the flouring mills at Medford. The proprietors, Davis & France, are pushing the product of their mill into every market in southern Oregon and northern California, and its superior quality warrants the prediction that it will fully meet the demand of their trade and hold its own wherever introduced. "Local Notes," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, September 5, 1889, page 3 Medford
Roller Mills.
MEDFORD, OREGON. DAVIS & FRANCE, - - - Proprietors. WE HAVE
NOW ONE OF THE BEST-EQUIPPED FLOUR MILLS IN THE STATE, and the
ONLY FULL ROLLER PROCESS MILL
in
Southern Oregon. These mills are now manufacturing the best grade of
flour ever offered to the trade in this section and are prepared to
fill all orders for flour, mill feed, etc., on short notice. All orders
by mail or in person will receive prompt attention.
Test the Flour and You Will Use
No Other.
Democratic
Times, Jacksonville, September 5, 1889 et seq., page 3
The business of the roller
mills is increasing rapidly.
"Medford
Squibs," Democratic
Times, Jacksonville, September 26, 1889, page 3The safe of Davis & France of the Medford roller mills was blown open by burglars Wednesday night but the box, containing but $40 as luck would have it, was captured by the burglars. Citizens should exercise unusual caution during the coming week. There are always a number of cracksmen following the fairs on the circuit. Safe-Crackers at Medford.
Burglars
entered the flouring mill at Medford and blew open the office safe at
some time between Wednesday evening and yesterday morning. They
obtained some $40 in cash for their trouble, and up to last evening no
clue to the identity or whereabouts of the thieves was reported.
Ashland Tidings, September 27, 1889, page 3 The new roller mills has shipped a fine lot of flour to Roseburg, which is there finding a ready market. Democratic Times, Jacksonville, October 3, 1889, page 3 To
Hog Raisers.
I
wish to say to the farmers of Jackson County that I imported several
head of full-blood Poland-China hogs from Minnesota last year, and now
offer them for sale. They are fine, and received first premium at last
September's fair held in this county. Will be sold at reasonable rates.
Can be seen by calling on A. A. Davis at the Medford Roller Mills,
Jackson County, Oregon. Also have some oak lumber and some wagon
tongues for sale.A. A.
DAVIS.
Democratic
Times, Jacksonville, December 5, 1889 et seq., page 3
Davis & France, proprietors of the flouring mill at Medford, have bought the Phoenix mill of P. W. Olwell, and intend to overhaul and improve it. They will operate both mills, Mr. Joseph France taking charge of the Phoenix mill. "Brevities," Ashland Daily Tidings, January 31, 1890, page 3 To the
Farmers of Jackson County.
Having found it impracticable to operate our mill at Medford as an
exchange mill, we have purchased the Washington Mills of Phoenix, and
will continue to operate them on the exchange plan. As soon as
practicable we will overhaul the mill and place it in first-class
repair. So bring on your wheat and we will prove to you that you will
be treated as well by the new firm as the old.
Respectfully
yours,
DAVIS
& FRANCE
Medford,
Or., Jan. 20, 1890Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 20, 1890 page 4 A. J. Daley, of the Eagle Point flouring mills, has let the contract for a complete set of the new patent roller process machinery, of the capacity of 50 barrels a day, which is to be put in the mill as soon as the freight trains will bring the machinery. Mr. L. Rouch, who put up the Medford mill, is to have charge of the job. Jackson County will soon be known abroad as the location of mills making the best flour in the state. "Brevities," Ashland Tidings, March 7, 1890, page 3 A very nice flouring mill, under the supervision of Ferry & Davis, of Minnesota, turns out flour in quality such as Stockton, Cal., might be proud of. "The Fine State of Oregon," Daily Freeman and Republican, Waukesha, Wisconsin, July 3, 1890, page 1 A movement has been on foot for several months to organize a second flouring mill in Medford, its stock being owned by a number of farmers of this vicinity. Seven thousand dollars worth of stock has already been pledged, the plan being to secure three thousand more in cash before purchasing machinery. A good lot has been secured near the depot.--[Mail. "Brevities," Ashland Tidings, July 4, 1890, page 3 The milling firm of Davis & France, operating the Phoenix and Medford mills, was dissolved this week, Mr. France retiring. "Brevities," Ashland Tidings, August 1, 1890, page 3 Mr. France, recently of the milling firm of Davis & France, of Medford and Phoenix, is up on Puget Sound, and is contemplating building a flouring mill at Fairhaven. "Brevities," Ashland Tidings, August 22, 1890, page 3 Frank Brandon has gone to Medford to make flour in the roller mill at that place. Frank is a good miller, and has had experience with the roller process. "Personal," Ashland Tidings, August 22, 1890, page 3 The Medford Roller Mills, which have been closed for a week past for repairs, started again Monday morning. They are now running on full time. "Medford Items," Ashland Tidings, January 9, 1891, page 2 MEDFORD ROLLER MILLS, corner D and 9th streets. This mill was started almost two years ago by the proprietor, A. A. Davis. It is a four-story building 40x50 feet in size, and has a capacity of from seventy-five to eighty barrels for each twenty-four hours. It is supplied with all the latest machinery, run by an engine of forty horsepower. Mr. Davis has about $14,000 invested in plant and machinery. He also runs the Phoenix mills situated at the town of Phoenix about five miles from here. His trade extends down to Redding, Cal., and up to the Willamette Valley. These mills are a credit to the county and deserving of much commendation. Mr. Davis is a gentleman of large experience and an active, enterprising man. He is a School Board Director and was a member of City Council one term. He came here two years ago from Alden, Minnesota, where he was in the general merchandising business, and also held a number of official positions. P. W. Croake, The Rogue River Valley, "The Italy of Oregon," Glass & Prudhomme, Portland, Oregon. Undated, written March 1891. The Medford roller mills are shipping forty carloads of wood from the north for their engine. "Here and There," Ashland Tidings, May 22, 1891, page 3 A. A. Davis has been in the Sound country drumming up business for the "Medford Straight" flour during the past week. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, July 10, 1891, page 2 The Medford mills were paying 75 cts. per bushel for wheat last week. "Brevities," Ashland Tidings, November 27, 1891, page 3 The Mail says that the Medford mill is running on half time on account of scarcity of wheat, and complains that too much was shipped out of the valley this year. Local millers will have to tone up their nerve and "get a move on them" early in the season when the wheat market is on the boom, as it was in 1891, or the outside buyers will trespass on their needs every time. "Brevities," Ashland Tidings, January 22, 1892, page 3 The Medford Roller Mills started up again Monday after being shut down for about ten days for the holidays and to repair the mill generally. Only day runs are being made at present. "Local News," Medford Mail, January 7, 1892, page 3 Owing to wheat shortage the Medford flour mills run on half time at present. Too much wheat was shipped out of the valley this year. This should never be; at least enough should stay with us to keep local industries busy the year round, as by this means employment can be given to a greater number of men. "Local News," Medford Mail, January 14, 1892, page 3 A. A. Davis is gaining political strength every day. He received one vote for councilman. "The Election," Medford Mail, January 14, 1892, page 3 Davis wasn't on the ballot. A New Deal.
The Medford
Roller Mills from this date will exchange as follows: For one bushel of
good, clean wheat or pounds enough of dirty wheat to make 60 lbs. of
clean wheat will give 30 lbs. best flour, 20 lbs. mill feed--bran and
shorts mixed--which would be 50 lbs. for 60 lbs. lean wheat. When flour
is wanted in my sacks 2 lbs. of flour less to the bushel will be given.
Change is made to stop the talk of taking one-half, as some customers
cannot see that 38 lbs. flour, the exchange heretofore, was more than
half. Hoping this will be more satisfactory.
I am yours respectfully, A. A. DAVIS. Medford Mail, February 18, 1892, page 3 Wm. Olwell, late bookkeeper at the Medford Roller Mills, is back at his father's ranch near Central Point, where he will remain several weeks and lend a hand at pruning their 160-acre orchard. "Local News," Medford Mail, March 10, 1892, page 3 Ed Pottenger is visiting in the city from Olympia, where he is in the employ of A. A. Davis in the milling business. "Local News," Medford Mail, March 31, 1892, page 3 A. A. Davis recently returned from Olympia, Wash., where he is engaged in milling business with G. W. Howard. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, May 20, 1892, page 2 B. F. Yount left Sunday evening for Davenport, Wash., where he goes to enter the employ of the A. A. Davis Milling Co., who are putting in a flourishing mill in that place. His family will remain here for a couple of months at least. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, July 1, 1892, page 3 The flour mill has closed until the fall trade. A. A. Davis, who is building up an extensive milling business in the state of Washington, came home Saturday to remain for a while. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, July 8, 1892, page 3 While the flour mill is closed it is being completely rehauled and cleaned. A wagon scales is being put in, and everything will be in shipshape order about the 1st of August, when it is expected the fall run will begin. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, July 15, 1892, page 3 The A. A. Davis mill property has been improved largely inside and outside. B. F. Crouch, who has been working on J. Nunan's fine new residence at Jacksonville, is home again and is engaged at work on A. A. Davis' addition to his dwelling. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, July 29, 1892, page 3 The flouring mill was shut down this week on account of the crank pin of the engine getting out of repair, which necessitated it being sent to Portland. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, August 12, 1892, page 3 The A. A. Davis roller mill is running again. Mrs. B. F. Yount left last Friday evening for Davenport, Wash., where she goes to join Mr. Yount, who is in the employ of the A. A. Davis milling company at that place. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, August 19, 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 A Card of Thanks.
The
Thanks and gratitude I feel to the kind friends who worked so nobly to
save my property Monday night would take a whole page of this paper to
express. Thanking you each and all,
I Am Yours Respt., A. A. DAVIS. Southern Oregon Mail, August 26, 1892, page 3 Fires at Medford.
A
pile of wood, about 275 cords, in front of the Medford flour mill
burned last Tuesday morning about 1 o'clock, and it took hard work to
save the mill, as there was no water in the ditch at the time. The loss
of the wood was $800; no insurance. The fire was seen at Jacksonville,
and the fire engine was taken down from that place by the cars.
Wednesday night about midnight a fire was discovered in the platform between the freight depot and passenger depot of the Jacksonville railroad, and was promptly put out, water being on hand that time. Some people think the fires were of incendiary origin. Ashland Tidings, August 26, 1892, page 3 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 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. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, September 30, 1892, page 3 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. "Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, November 4, 1892, page 3 There were no gay pink and green rayons then, "back in the good old days." And they didn't call them lingerie. The undies were made from "A. A. Davis' Best." But many oldtimers remember the cloth as it gleamed from teeter-totter and rail fence, in the '90s when "times were hard." Some mothers had time to boil the letters out of the sacks, but the majority left them in, and everyone knew that A. A. Davis' flour mill was supplying southern Oregon with underwear. "Newbury Recalls Days of Flour Sack B.V.D.'s," undated 1930s Medford Mail Tribune clipping, RVGS A. A. Davis' handsome residence has been greatly improved by its new coat of paint. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, December 2, 1892, page 2 Mr. P. J. Halley, one of the engineers at A. A. Davis' flouring mill, is laid up this week with a severe cold. "City Local Whirl," Medford Mail, March 17, 1893, page 3 Mr. A. A. Davis, the popular and jovial merchant miller of Medford, was up at Ashland Monday for a brief business stay. "Purely Personal," Medford Mail, March 24, 1893, page 3 The interests that is taken by parents who have sons that are members of the public school band is evidenced by the recent purchase of new instruments by Mr. A. A. Davis for his son Scott. The instruments purchased were a latest improved patent bass drum and a pair of the very finest Turkish cymbals, and the Mr. Davis Jr. handles them in a way very masterly. The cost of the instruments was $35. "City Local Whirl," Medford Mail, April 21, 1893, page 3 The wheat crop of the valley is now all in the hands of a dozen persons, and were it not for the amount in store at the warehouse the local mill might have to run on short time. Davis' business sagacity, however, enabled him to secure a call option on a large amount which he has in store for the farmers. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, April 28, 1893, page 2 A. A. Davis, the mill man, shut down his flouring mill yesterday for an indefinite time. This is done because of the vast amount of flour he now has on hand. "City Local Whirl," Medford Mail, May 5, 1893, page 3 Much has been said in the newspapers of the valley regarding the recent purchase by A. A. Davis, of this place, of an interest in the mining property which was formerly known as the Crawford-Fitch-Cardwell mine. A Mail reporter, to get the facts as they stand, has interviewed Mr. Davis regarding his purchase of an interest in the property, and also machinery, and from him we learned that the company has ordered two carloads--representing an even $5,000 in cold cash--of the latest improved machinery, direct from Chicago, and that it is expected to arrive here within about ten days. They now have men at work building a foundation upon which to place the machinery and are otherwise getting everything in shape for its immediate placement upon arrival. When the machinery is in proper shape to begin work, the ore will be taken from the tunnel in cars and run out on an elevated railroad track to a point thirty feet above the crushing machinery and then dumped on to a grizzly, thence on through the several machines, which by the way are automatic throughout. The capacity of this machinery is one ton per hour, and it will be run night and day. They are now in on the tunnel 160 feet and are still going further. As to the amount of gold and other minerals contained in the ore which they are producing, Mr. Davis preferred not to make a statement--saying that he would rather wait until the mine was in working shape and then let it tell its own story. As Mr. Davis is a shrewd, thorough business man and after surveying well the premises has decided to invest the amount of money he has in this machinery, the conclusion that the mine is a valuable property is easily arrived at. If careful attention to business, and by one so well versed in all business capacity, will prove to us the value of Southern Oregon mines, then this one will be the leader. The mine spoken of is located in the Willow Springs district, and the new company which is now operating it is recorded under the name of "The Medford Mining and Milling Company," with headquarters at Medford, where all the officers reside. "Mines and Mining," Medford Mail, May 26, 1893, page 1 S. H. Vawter, recently of this city, has taken charge of the Davis mine near Central Point, Ore. The Davis is a gold mine which is developed by a 160-foot tunnel showing a five-and-one-half-foot vein, the ore of which will assay $16, although pockets run from $200 to $500 per ton. A Huntington mill will be placed on the property immediately.--Spokane, Wash., Northwest Mining Review. "All the Local News," Medford Mail, June 9, 1893, page 3 The baseball boys have recently put up a good, substantial backstop at their grounds--opposite Davis' flouring mill. "All the Local News," Medford Mail, July 14, 1893, page 3 MEDFORD ROLLER MILLS
A. A. DAVIS, PROPRIETOR
Owing to the
many business enterprises contributing to the credit of Southern Oregon
as a manufacturing center, there undoubtedly has, beyond question, no
one single establishment of any kind contributed by its capable
management, practical skill, and business ability, to bring this about
more than the management of the Medford Roller Mills. The many
improvements that have been made in the last ten years in the
manufacture of flour have nowhere been so pronounced as in this
country, and the fact has been fully established that Medford produces
flour, not only of superior quality, but of marked excellence and
fineness. The leading brand manufactured is "Davis' Best," a flour
unsurpassed for fitness and freedom from mixture, and is a prime
favorite wherever used. This mill, with its 100-barrel capacity per
day, was built four years ago and is fitted up with the most improved
roller machinery procurable. Mr. Davis is an active, reliable and
enterprising businessman. He and his establishment is deserving of all
the commendation we can give.
"Medford," Medford
Mail, July 14, 1893, page 1Will Olwell, the gentleman who at one time operated the Phoenix flouring mill, but now bookkeeper for the A. A. Davis Milling Company at Davenport, Wash., is in Medford for a visit with friends and relatives. "Purely Personal," Medford Mail, July 21, 1893, page 3 Frank Wait has two teams engaged in hauling flour from Grants Pass to Waldo for A. A. Davis, who secured the contract for furnishing H. Gasquet with 110,000 pounds thereof. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 11, 1893, page 3 Medford is to have a new industry, one which is out of the line usually accorded to cities of her size, but we are going to have it soon, and it is the manufacture of a superior quality of baking powder. The gentleman who is the owner and manager of the enterprise is W. H. Hembree, he who a few years ago was employed as engineer in the Davis flouring mill, but who has since been "on the road" for a San Francisco tea and spice house, and it was while thus engaged that he caught onto the baking powder idea. "All the Local News," Medford Mail, January 19, 1894, page 3 Mill Going To Close.
The
Medford Roller Mills will close down tomorrow night until sometime in
April. Overstock of flour on hand--caused by wheat being held so much
above the market price that it cannot be manufactured and shipped to
outside markets. The cause for overstocked local markets explains
itself.
Medford Mail, February 23, 1894, page 3 A. A. Davis, the flouring mill man, took Tuesday morning's train for San Francisco. His mission, he states, is purely business, with a few midwinter fair luxuries on the side. He will be absent about ten days. The trip is made chiefly to look after some large shipments of flour and feed recently made to that city from his Big Bend flouring mills at Davenport, Washington. "Purely Personal," Medford Mail, March 16, 1894, page 3 Going to Toot Next Monday. The whistle of the Davis flouring mill will be heard again next Monday morning, and the housewives will begin the process of regulating the family clocks. The mill has been doing a little barley grinding this week, but not until Monday will it begin running regularly. Medford Mail, March 30, 1894, page 3 A. A. Davis:--"I had just about arranged positively for the erection of three buildings on my property, facing west on North C Street, in fact had received bids for their erection, when I received a letter from eastern parties, with whom I had made verbal contract for their rental, to the effect that they had decided not to come west this spring. This, of course, knocked out my plans, for a time at least. The building was to be brick, 75x80 feet in size, two stories high, and divided into three ordinary store buildings or one colossal store room, as renters desired. However, I have not wholly given up the idea of building, as I am figuring upon putting up a brick hotel building 90x100 feet in size on the corner of C and Sixth streets. This building I am ready to build as soon as a suitable renter can be had. When I build I will put up buildings that will be a credit to the city and am desirous of renting to only good, square men." "Echoes from the Street," Medford Mail, April 20, 1894, page 2 W. L. Halley:--"I spent several days down at A. A. Davis' quartz mills, located at what is known as the Comstock of Oregon, in the Willow Springs mining district, making some needed repairs, and also laying something like 150 feet more of water pipe to increase the volume of water for milling purposes. The ore now taken from the shaft bids fair to make it the best paying mine in Southern Oregon." "Echoes from the Street," Medford Mail, June 1, 1894, page 2 A. A. Davis' flouring mill is running night and day, a night shift having been put on Tuesday. A. Lamb, of Phoenix, is running the night shift as miller, and P. J. Halley as engineer. A. E. Johnson is the day miller and W. L. Halley the day engineer, as of yore. The run is thus doubled up to enable the mill to catch up on back orders for flour. Just how long it will run nights cannot now be stated. "News of the City," Medford Mail, September 25, 1896, page 7 MEDFORD ROLLER MILLS.
"Our Business and Professional People Briefly Mentioned," Medford Mail, May 28, 1897, page 3A. A. DAVIS, PROPRIETOR. In
referring to various enterprises that are represented in this city, the
Medford Roller Mills are worthy of extended notice. The mills are fully
equipped with all the latest and most approved machinery for the
manufacture of the full high-grade roller process flour. Their location
enables them to obtain choice selected wheat such as is essential to
produce a superior grade of flour that these mills have an established
reputation for making.
They also manufacture graham flour, corn meal and feed of all kinds. They have a large city trade, as well as outside, from those parties who deal in a superior grade of flour. To those who live abroad and who have not used this mill's product, we can safely commend it as being far superior to most flour, and surpassed by none for quality and whiteness. The case instituted against the S.P.R.R. Co. by A. A. Davis and wife, for damages, has been dismissed. A large part of Davis' warehouse collapsed under the weight of the wheat stored in it this week, making a great noise and causing considerable commotion. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, January 19, 1900, page 3
A. A. Davis is having one of his old wheat warehouses, near the depot, torn down. He will extend the remaining house to the north forty or sixty feet--same width as the old one. This will give him more room for storing the immense wheat crop which is now promised. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, May 18, 1900, page 7 The Sugar Pine Company's big steam road engine came in Wednesday with about 16,000 feet of lumber. This is the first trip of the train this spring. The roads were found in fairly good condition except a few hundred feet on sticky, near Mr. Gregory's place, where they were still soft. The hauling with the engine this season will be wholly from Big Butte, twenty-six miles from Medford. The company now has sixteen teams engaged in hauling lumber from the Gray mill to Big Butte, a distance of sixteen miles. Mr. A. A. Davis, a member of the company, has been given the superintendency of the hauling for the season and proposes to put forth every effort to make the enterprise a success and he'll make the anticipated success if anyone can. He is a gentleman of good business ideas and knows how to utilize them to advantage. He informs a Mail reporter that the one and only difficulty to overcome is the condition of the roads. However, he hopes to remedy this and now has a gang of men at work lengthening some of the short turns and smoothing down the rough places. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, May 25, 1900, page 7 D. B. Russell, the miller, left this week for Fort Jones, Calif., at which place he has employment in a flouring mill. W. J. Virgin, the "Co." in the A. A. Davis & Co.'s mills in Medford and Ashland, will do the milling in the Medford mill--with Scott Davis, his able assistant. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, June 15, 1900, page 7 Messrs. A. A. Davis & Co. are building a 40x40-foot extension to their warehouse, west of the Southern Pacific depot. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, June 22, 1900, page 7 A. L. Eisenhart, a miller from California, has taken a position in A. A. Davis & Co.'s mill in Medford, and will move his family here this week .Mr. Eisenhart is an all-round mill man, being familiar with all the several requirements--even to that of running the engine. "Purely Personal," Medford Mail, August 3, 1900, page 6 Mrs. A. A. Davis died at the family residence in Medford on the 10th inst., after a lingering illness. She was a lady of many good qualities and highly respected by all who knew her. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 13, 1900, page 3 Obituary--Mrs. A. A. Davis
Died--In
Ashland, Oregon, at the home of H. H. Hosler, on Aug. 11, 1900, Mrs.
Angella M. Davis, aged fifty years, one month and twenty-one days.
Angella Melissa Langdon was born June 20, 1850, at Beaver, Penn. In early childhood she lived in Iowa and from there she moved to Minnesota, where, on Nov. 5, 1871, she was married to Mr. Ansil A. Davis. Four children blessed this union, Mrs. Ellie Halley and Orin Davis, of Medford, Mrs. Grace Hosler, of Ashland, and Scott Davis, also of Medford. Deceased also leaves two brothers and two sisters behind to mourn her loss. One of these is Mrs. Hazel of our own city. The brothers and the other sister still reside in Minnesota. Eleven years ago Mr. and Mrs. Davis moved to Medford with their family. Here Mr. Davis engaged in milling and other business, and prosperity attended his efforts, so that today Mr. Davis is accounted one of our most substantial and prosperous business men in Southern Oregon. The deceased was a lover of her home, and greatly attached to her family. She was converted a few years ago and united with the Presbyterian Church of Medford, while Rev. A. S. Foster was its pastor. Mrs. Davis had been a great sufferer for several years. She never regained her full strength after the accident occurred. About two years ago she gradually grew worse, and all that medical skill could do was done for her, but it was impossible to cure her. Toward the end she often spoke of the rumbling, roaring water which she heard, and said it must be the river of death drawing near. She seemed ready and was prepared to go. Among her last words were the following to her daughter, Mrs. Halley: "You all can and do move around, while I cannot, but must lie here helpless, but someday I will make a grand move--to Heaven. That will be grand, won't it, Ellie?" The funeral services were held last Sunday at 2 o'clock, at her home in Medford, whither her body had been brought from Ashland. Her pastor, Rev. Adolph Haberly, preached the funeral sermon. A large number of relatives, friends and fellow townspeople were present at the funeral to pay their respects to the departed. The floral offerings were numerous and beautiful. The remains were laid to rest in Odd Fellows cemetery under the shade of a protecting oak. The words of the following poem were a part of Mrs. Davis' mother's obituary and are included here because they are dear to the family. TO MOTHER'S MEMORY.
Gone, and the world to go on as before,
Medford Mail, August 17, 1900, page 3Gone, with a smile, from the old homestead door; Dear faithful heart, to come back never more, To your old home, nevermore. Gone, and the seasons to come and go, Wreathing her grave with blossoms and snow. Snow, on the bosom that sheltered us so-- Cruel and pitiless snow. Home is not home--Mother's not there; Dark is her room; empty her chair; Angels have taken her out from our care. Lifted her over life stairs. Even the sunlight misses her face, Mute things her sayings and doings retrace, Winds sing a dirge about the old place; So lonely seems that old place. Dear willing hands, they've well done their share; Tired and worn, a pitiable pair; Once they were slender, soft and fair, Long years ago, they were fair. No more in anguish the poor heart will bow; Fadeless the crown that encircles her brow; Clad in the garments of angelhood now; Fetterless evermore now. And when we've done with earth and its care, Folded our hands in a last mute prayer, Mother will reach for us over life's stairs; Over life's wearisome stairs. Sleep, Mother, sleep; with your hands on your breast; Poor, weary hands, they needed their rest; We loved you well, but God loved you best; Dear heart, He's given you rest. J. D. Heard has purchased the A. A. Davis residence property, in West Medford, paying $3000 therefor. The property is among the most desirable in the city, and Mr. Heard is to be congratulated upon having become its possessor--and Medford is to be congratulated that these good people have decided to make permanent their heretofore temporary residence. The residence is now occupied by F. Osenbrugge, and possession will be given in March, at which time his lease expires. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, December 7, 1900, page 7 J. D. Heard and family have returned from California, to permanently locate. Jeff. has purchased A. A. Davis' residence in the western part of town, paying $3000 for it. His little daughter, who has been in a sanitarium for the benefit of her health, has almost fully recovered. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, December 10, 1900, page 3 H. W. Jackson came over from his company's mine, in Josephine County, this week. The company, which is made up principally of A. A. Davis and Mr. Jackson, own mining property in Josephine County which bids fair to outrival anything yet brought to light. They own mountains, almost of nearly pure copper, and aside from this they have a gold ledge nearby, which is wondrous rich. Mr. Jackson brought out with him several samples of copper, some of the larger of which were sent to the Paris mineral exhibit. The copper ore also contains from $40 to $60 of gold and silver. "Purely Personal," Medford Mail, December 14, 1900, page 6 Jeff. Heard and A. A. Davis were in Jackson Creek district, situated west of Jacksonville, one day this week, looking at some mines. Mrs. Jessie Farnsworth of Los Angeles, Calif. arrived in M "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, March 21, 1901, page 5 A. A. Davis and J. D. Heard have got back from their trip to the oil regions of California. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, April 18, 1901, page 7 J. D. Heard has moved to his fine residence in West Medford, which he purchased from A. A. Davis several months ago. Mr. Osenbrugge, who has been occupying the premises, has moved to H. L. Gilkey's residence. "Additional Local," Medford Mail, June 7, 1901, page 6 J. D. Heard is making numerous improvements about his recently acquired beautiful home--the A. A. Davis property. Nearly the whole interior is being remodeled, and many changes are being made on the exterior, and the grounds also are being rearranged and improved. John Osborne is doing the carpenter work, and J. L. Demmer is arranging the lawn and garden. "Additional Local," Medford Mail, June 14, 1901, page 6 A. A. Davis & Co.'s warehouse, an annex to the flouring mill, took a tumble Monday afternoon. The entire underpinning gave way, and 7000 bushels of wheat and 3000 bushels of barley, together with the entire structure, dropped to the ground, a distance about three feet. The sides of the building were bulged out a considerable [omission] and a few of the sacks of wheat were bursted open, but the loss of grain is really nothing. The grain and building will be left as they are until the grain is used up, when in all probability the old building will be torn down and an elevator built in its place. The company has had in contemplation for some time the erection of a modern designed elevator and the collapsing of the warehouse will doubtless hasten its building. An elevator would do away with the custom of sacking the wheat, which is now in vogue in the valley. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, September 20, 1901, page 7 The A. A. Davis & Co. milling company received two carloads of wheat from Walla Walla this week. The crop of this valley was short last season which makes this importation from outside points necessary. "Additional Local," Medford Mail, March 7, 1902, page 6 The Medford flouring mill began rolling wheels this week. The not overly large crop of wheat last year has made the flouring mill run of the valley a short one this season, but everybody seems much encouraged for next season, as wheat now growing is said to be looking fine. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, March 7, 1902, page 7 A few months ago A. A. Davis, the wealthy mill owner of Medford, presented his son, Scott, with two fine residence lots in Medford, and now that young man is making ready to erect a fine dwelling house thereon. The lots are situated in the J. A. Morey addition on J Street, at the head of Sixth Street. They are very nicely situated for residence purposes. The residence Scott will put up will be 26x38 feet in size and one and a half stories high. It will conform in every respect to the most modern architectural designs and unless the plans are very misleading it will be one of the prettiest and most convenient structures in the city. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, March 14, 1902, page 7 Scott Davis is having rock hauled for the foundation of his new residence, which will soon be built near G. W. Isaacs' place. "Additional Local," Medford Mail, March 21, 1902, page 6 The Oregon Granite Co. is at work this week putting up a new granite monument base for the Taylor boys. The base when completed will weigh 4000 pounds and takes the place of a sandstone base. They are also placing a granite foundation for Scott Davis' new residence. Messrs. A. A. Davis & Co. are making ready for a new warehouse adjoining their flouring mill. The building will stand where stood the old one, which collapsed last fall, and will be 60x60 feet in size. A good, solid foundation will be put beneath it, and it will be constructed in the best possible manner and capable of bearing up all the load which can be put upon it. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, April 4, 1902, page 7 Work is progressing rapidly on the new warehouse being built by A. A. Davis to replace the one which collapsed last winter. The roof is now being put on. Contractor Hazel is putting up a good, solid piece of work and pushing it as fast as possible and expects to have it finished in about ten days. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, April 25, 1902, page 7 A. A. Davis, who is interested in the Shelley Creek mines, left for Josephine County Thursday, accompanied by his son Orrin. "Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, May 8, 1902, page 7 MEDFORD'S CITIZENS.
Who Are Interested in Davenport, Washington.
Through the courtesy of Ed. Olwell, one of the Olwell Bros., now a
progressive business man of Davenport, the metropolis of the Big Bend
country, in Washington, the Democratic Times has
received a neatly prepared advertising booklet. It is constructed in a
first-class style, and would reflect credit on a much larger place. It
shows that other Jackson County citizens, besides Mr. Olwell, are
interested there. The names of A. A. Davis and W. I. Vawter are
mentioned as prominent officers in the Big Bend flour mills, of which
W. J. Olwell is vice-president and manager. He is also a city
councilman. One of the principal brands of flour of this mill is
"Davis' Best." The booklet shows that Davenport is a progressive town
of 1,500 inhabitants, and a desirable place in which to locate.
Democratic Times, Jacksonville, June 19, 1902, page 7 The firm of Davis & Virgin, which has operated the Medford and Ashland flouring mills for some time past, was dissolved recently. Each has resumed charge and is operating his respective property. "Local Notes," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 21, 1902, page 5  1904. The owner and manager of the Medford Flouring Mills, president and business manager of the Big Bend Milling Company of Davenport, Wash., and director in the Jackson County Bank of Medford, came to Oregon in 1888, and was born at Beaver Dam, Dodge County, Wis., April 30, 1851. His father, Chandler Davis, was born in Vermont, and his mother, Ann (Hudson) Davis, is a native of the state of Massachusetts. Chandler Davis was a pioneer of Wisconsin, locating in Dodge County in 1849. He was a carpenter, millwright and contractor, and in the Badger state, with its large milling and lumbering resources, found ample scope for his skill. He not only started one of the first mills in his section, but invested in a large tract of land which he partially cleared of timber. In 1863 he removed to Freeborn County, Minn., and near Albert Lea engaged in farming until coming to Tacoma, Wash., in 1894, his death occurring there in 1903, at the age of seventy-six years. His last years were spent in retirement, and he is survived by his wife, now seventy-six years of age. The oldest in a family of three sons and three daughters, the present miller of Medford worked with his father on the farm in Minnesota until his twenty-third year, when he embarked in a general merchandise business at Alden, Minn. There he conducted a successful business for twelve years, at the expiration of that period disposing of his interests prior to his departure for Oregon. With this hardy and practical training he came to Oregon in 1888, and at Medford started the first roller mill in this part of the state or south of Albany, with a capacity of sixty-five barrels a day. Soon afterward he increased his capacity to eighty barrels a day, the present output of the mill. Davis' Best brand is shipped to all of the local markets, and established the reputation of the owner as one of the best flour makers on the coast. In the meantime he has bought up large quantities of grain, and from being the first in the line in the place, he has advanced also to the largest purchaser in his locality. The flouring mills operated by the Big Bend Milling Company at Davenport, Wash., were built by Mr. Davis in 1890, who also incorporated the company for $100,000, and is third owner with William I. Vawter, president of the Bank of Jackson County, and George W. Howard, of San Francisco. The Davenport mills have a capacity of three hundred and fifty barrels per day, the flour being shipped to local and foreign markets. As the president of the Big Bend Milling Company, Mr. Davis spends a portion of his time in Washington, although he makes his home at Medford. With Mr. Virgin he is interested in the now discontinued mill at Central Point, and he is owner of a flouring mill at Phoenix, Ore. Mr. Davis has invested heavily in timber lands in different parts of the state, and is the owner of valuable mining properties in Jackson County. In fact there are but few great resources of the Northwest that are not being promoted by his capital and personal interest. That men like to be associated with him in business, and that when so doing regard their future as practically assured, is not surprising when the conservative and cautious methods of this financier are taken into account. He is a leader whom less wary and resourceful men might do well to follow, for he is an earnest advocate of industry, perseverance, of the mutual cooperation of employer and employee, of business courtesy and consideration, and' unswerving integrity. At Albert Lea, Freeborn County, Minn., in 1871, Mr. Davis married Angelia Langdon, a native of Pennsylvania, who died in Medford in July 1900, at the age of forty-nine years. Of this union there are two sons and two daughters: Effie May, the wife of W. L. Halley of Medford; Orrin Lee, interested in the flouring mill at Medford; Grace Bell, the wife of H. H. Hosler of Ashland, Ore.; and Scott Victor, in his father's mill at Medford. Mr. Davis is an active Republican, and aside from serving on the city council for five or six terms, has been a member of the school board for many years. Portrait and Biographical Record of Western Oregon, Chapman Publishing Co. 1904, page 669  From The Sketch, September 14, 1907 "A Few Medford Enterprises," Medford Mail, March 9, 1906, page 21 On Monday morning Geo. Daly, the miller at the Davis flouring mills, narrowly escaped death, but was badly injured by the accident. While oiling the machinery he was caught in one of the large belts, wrenching his shoulder joint and cutting a large gash over his left eye, and was otherwise bruised and hurt. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, December 14, 1906, page 5 Cashier M. L. Alford, of the First National Bank, of this city, has purchased, from J. D. Heard, the residence property formerly owned by A. A. Davis, corner Eighth and I streets. The consideration was $3,000; Mr. Alford has already moved to his new home. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, April 5, 1907, page 5 A. A. DAVIS.
One of
Medford's citizens who has always been at the front in every movement
for the improvement or advancement of the community is A. A. Davis. Mr.
Davis' first move for Medford progress, made just after his arrival
here, 18 years ago, was the substitution of a cash business basis for
the primeval system of barter and exchange then in vogue, and ever
since that time he has always been identified with every progressive
move, lending his influence and financial aid freely and generously
whenever called upon.
Medford Mail, April 26, 1907, page 2 One of Medford's citizens who has always been at the front in every movement for the improvement or advancement of the community is A. A. Davis. Mr. Davis' first move for Medford's progress, made just after his arrival here 18 years ago, was the substitution of a cash business basis for the primeval system of barter and exchange then in vogue, and ever since that time he has always been identified with every progressive move, lending his influence and financial aid freely and generously whenever called upon. Medford Mail, April 26, 1907, page 2 The A. A. Davis flouring mill started operations Thursday morning after a rest of several weeks, and will continue as long as the wheat holds out. The crop this year is not a large one, owing to some extent to a decrease in acreage, much heretofore wheat land having been set to fruit, and then again the weather was too wet and cold during early spring to insure an abundant yield. E. W. Daily is the miller in charge at this mill. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, July 26, 1907, page 5 Medford Flour Mill Will Not Close
The
Southern Pacific Co. has come to the relief of the local wheat
situation. Owing to the failure of the wheat crop locally and nearby
points, the flour mill was about to close down, not being able to
secure wheat. This condition being made known to the S.P. Co. they have
granted the extremely low rate of $3 per ton on wheat from Portland to
Southern Oregon points. This will keep our mills running and keep the
price of flour down, and also keep going an industry we could not
afford to lose. The company should be commended for this act on their
part.
DAVIS DISPOSES LOCAL HOLDINGS $100,000 VALUEMedford Mail, October 11, 1907, page 1 The Capital City Nursery Co., through its local agent, L. W. Fansher, sold this week to Mr. A. A. Davis 8000 trees--5000 apples and 3000 pears. This is probably the largest sale ever made in the history of this county, to a single individual at one time. "City Happenings," Medford Mail, April 10, 1908, page 5 Give the name of the mill that makes the best flour in southern Oregon. The Blue Stem Hard Wheat flour stands at the head of the class, and [Davis'] Best is another brand that is having a big sale. This flour is all manufactured right here in Medford and more and more it is becoming the universal habit to demand from the grocer this brand. Its excellence is penetrating the whole surrounding country, and its market is reaching out in in all directions. This mill is a full roller mill, with facilities to produce the very best product, and they are doing it. They also manufacture corn meal, graham, germea, brans, shorts, rolled barley, etc. Medford Flour Mills, cor. S. Front and [Ninth] sts. "What Do You Know About This?" Medford Mail, December 9, 1909, page 6  Medford Roller Mills as seen from the roof of St. Mary's Academy, March 1910. H. O. Nordwick of Oakland Purchases Medford Home, Flour Mill, Table Rock Ranch and Butte Falls Timber Land from A. A. Davis. Is Refitting Flour Mill and Will Operate This Summer-- Ranch To Be Model Hog and Dairy Farm. A
large real estate deal has but recently been consummated and deeds
signed whereby H. O. Nordwick of Oakland, Cal. becomes the owner of
real estate in Jackson County valued to nearly $100,000.
MEDFORD FLOUR MILL PREPARES TO RESUME OPERATIONPart of the property included in the deal is the old A. A. Davis flouring mill, situated on the corner of South Front and Ninth streets, in this city. This is one of the most famous flouring mills of early days in Jackson County, and while it has not been in constant operation for the past few years, the mill equipment has been kept in fairly good repair, and most of the machinery is reasonably modern. However, Mr. Nordwick, the new owner, is laying plans to overhaul not alone the machinery but the building as well, and make of it a strictly modern and up-to-date mill for the manufacture of flour and feed. Several new pieces of machinery will be put in, and the large electric motor now in use will be dismantled and a number of smaller motors will be installed with which to operate the machinery individually. Repairs and changes will be made on the building, and it will be repainted--and the name "Medford Roller Mills" will be painted across two sides. Mill To Operate
Mr. Nordwick expects to have all
these changes and repairs made within the next few weeks, and as soon
as completed he will commence grinding feed, and as soon as the 1914
crop of wheat is ready for milling his mill will be in readiness to put
on the market the splendid grade of flour for which the Rogue River
Valley wheat is famous.This mill property includes a tract of land 100x115 feet in size, but does not include the brick garage which originally belonged with the mill property. The purchase price of the property was $20,000. The S. V. Davis and A. S. Rosenbaum ranch, on Rogue River, has also been acquired by Mr. Nordwick. There are 120 acres in this tract, and it figured in the deal at $42,000. This is one of the best pieces of alfalfa or fruit land in the county. Mr. Nordwick will move the buildings from their present site to a more advantageous location and will put up several new buildings, including a large silo. Sixty acres of the land will be leveled off and seeded to alfalfa, while the remainder of the land will be planted to corn and other crops. About twenty head of high-grade dairy cows will be purchased by Mr. Nordwick and put on the place, together with a band of high-grade hogs. It is Mr. Nordwick's intention to make of this a modern and model dairy and stock ranch. The fact that a water right for irrigating purposes goes with this place makes it an exceptionally good stock farm. Davis Residence Bought
Other property acquired by Mr.
Nordwick is a timber tract of 500 acres near Butte Falls, and the A. A.
Davis residence on West Tenth Street, in Medford. This is a large
fourteen-room dwelling, together with half an acre of ground with a
frontage on both Tenth and Eleventh streets. The residence's
consideration was $10,000.In exchange for all these properties, Mr. Davis gets a large Venetian apartment house on Lake Merritt, in Oakland; a fine residence in Oakland and a tract of farmland near that city. Mr. Nordwick is now in Medford with his family and will personally look after the management of his holdings here. Medford Mail Tribune, February 13, 1914, page 1 After
being closed down for a series of years, due to the abandonment of
wheat for fruit in the Medford district, the old A. A. Davis mill,
which formerly suppled the valley with its flour, is being
rehabilitated and will be operated throughout the coming summer by its
present owner, H. O. Nordwick. Not in years has there been such a large
acreage of wheat sown in the valley, and the outlook is promising,
although it is expected to import California, Klamath and northern
wheat also. A fine brand of flour will be turned out, and another leak
in the send of money out of the valley for food supplies stopped.
F. S. Brandon, formerly proprietor of the "Wardrobe," who for 20 years before his undertaking merchandising, was a miller, and his brother, a well-known wheelwright, will have charge of the mill and are now busy installing modern equipment. They will be in readiness for hauling the present crop, and wheat growers are advised to bring their product to the home market. Medford Mail Tribune, June 10, 1915, page 2 A. S. Bliton of Medford, former publisher of the Medford Mail, was a visitor in this city Monday. Mr. Bliton is sales agent for the Medford Roller Mills and is placing the flour made by the mill with the local stores. "Local News," Jacksonville Post, October 2, 1915, page 3 The Medford flour mills have been remodeled and placed in operation after years of idleness. "Fine Structures Show Progress of City in 1915," Medford Mail Tribune, December 31, 1915, page 8 LARGER ACREAGE OF WHEAT PROMISED
The
promise of an increased acreage of wheat in this valley this season
carries with it the additional promise of a much improved quality of
grain. Better seed has been selected and better seedbeds prepared. For
several years prior to last season wheat was raised in this valley
chiefly for chicken and hog feed, there being no market for it for
milling purposes locally. The Medford roller mills was modernized,
enlarged and otherwise equipped to supply the market for all the wheat
raised. On account of this establishment of a local market the farmers
concluded to produce a greater harvest of better grain.
The Eagle Point mill has been modernized this year by the new owners and will enlarge the local demand for wheat and other grains. The Medford mill is equipped to produce cornmeal and rye flour also and is already putting out a splendid quality of all kinds of breakfast foods. The roller products of the valley this year promise, therefore, a large output of excellent quality of goods in their line. Medford Mail Tribune, February 11, 1916, page 6 H. O. Nordwick has carpenters at work building additions and porches to his residence, corner Eighth and Ivy streets. "Local and Personal," Medford Mail Tribune, March 23, 1916, page 2 Local Flour Mill Is Now in
Operation
The flour
mill recently purchased by N. O. Nordwick of Medford by Messrs. N. M.
Vilm and C. H. Vilm of Wichita, Kas., and E. N. Vilm of Anna, Ill., has
been incorporated under the name of the Rogue Valley Milling Co. The mill property has not been in operation for a considerable length of time, but has been overhauled and remodeled by the new owners, and is now in operation, which means a great deal for the Rogue River Valley. There is a very large amount of grain grown in the valley, and the next few years will see a steady increase in the amount grown here, but in the past most of this grain has been shipped out of the valley, owing to the scarcity of local mills, and the opening of the mill here in Medford will do away with the necessity of shipping all of this grain to other milling centers. As a step in the conservation of foodstuffs the food administration appointed by our government has set a fixed price of $2.00 a bushel on wheat, with standard deductions as to the different grades and tests of same, but even at that the producer loses if he must ship his grain to a distant market, owing to the fact that he usually has to pay the freight and also sustain the loss in transit, loading and unloading, whereas if the farmer can sell his wheat at home these losses are minimized. The farmer is not the only one to suffer by the present system, for when the consumer has to buy his flour and grain products made by mills other than those at home he must pay the actual value of the flour with the freight charges to and from the large milling center added. The new milling company will manufacture two brands of flour--"Vilmo" and "Harmony." They are buying only the best grain in the valley for actual milling purposes and coupled with a good practical knowledge of the milling business and experience gained by years of work in this line, will put out a grade of flour equal to if not excelling any now made in the Pacific Northwest. The mill will be managed by E. N. Vilm and C. H. Vilm. N. M. Vilm, the president of the same, will not have an active part in the business. E. N. Vilm, vice-president and manager of the mill, has followed the milling industry all of his life, gaining his experience in various mills throughout the Middle West. C. H. Vilm, secretary and head miller, has in the past been connected with some of the largest mills in Kansas and Texas, and besides being a practical miller is an experienced cereal chemist. Both of these men know how to make good flour and are going to make flour of the grain raised in the Rogue River Valley for the use of the people of the valley, and urge the people here to help them by giving their flour a trial. Medford Mail Tribune, February
6, 1918, page 4
MEDFORD MILL FIRE
RESULTS IN DAMAGE OF NEARLY $25,000 Rogue Valley Milling Plant Is Totally Destroyed by Fire, Only Partially Insured
MEDFORD, Nov. 29.--Fire of unknown origin destroyed the three-story
plant of the Rogue Valley Milling Company, corner of South Front and
East Ninth streets, shortly after midnight Wednesday night, causing
much excitement and an estimated loss of $25,000.
E. N. Vilm, who is proprietor and operator of the Rogue Valley Milling Company, having some time ago bought out the interests of his brother, and who is being deluged with sympathy by his many friends and business men in general, besides estimating his loss as $25,000, estimates that he carried insurance of $19,000. Of this insurance he states that $10,000 was on the stock, and $9000 on the building and machinery. Of his future plans Mr. Vilm says that at present he has none. He knew nothing about the fire, which had wiped him out of business, temporarily, until Thanksgiving morning, about 7 o'clock, no one having thought to notify him while the building was burning, and later, until that hour. The fire had gained much headway and the interior of the large building was first discovered about 12:15 a.m. Thursday, and then promptly reported to the fire department, which was quickly on the job. When the firemen arrived the structure was all ablaze and the roof about ready to fall in. While they could do nothing in the way of saving the building, yet they played several streams of water on it and at the same time played streams on the nearby dwellings, which for a time were also threatened with destruction--so much so that the families either moved their belongings out, or had prepared to do so. What made the fire in the mill buildings so hard to extinguish was its large quantity of stock of finished and unfinished flour, run of the mill, grain and brand stock. The firemen played streams on it for over five hours. The building was thoroughly gutted, and its walls are rendered useless. It is regarded as a complete loss. Of the stock it is thought only a small quantity of flour stacked in one corner, and on which the firemen played streams, was saved. Fortunately an American LaFrance fire pumper, which with its operator had arrived here Wednesday night for a demonstration to be made Friday, was available and put into use with its demonstrator at the fire, and was of very valuable assistance to the firemen, as it enabled them to have heavy pressure all the time. The destruction of the mill building removes a landmark of many years. It was originally built about 40 years ago as the A. A. Davis mill, it is said. Then it passed into the hands of H. O. Nordwick, who operated it for a time, and then disposed of it to the Vilm Bros.' Rogue Valley Milling Company. Some time ago E. N. Vilm bought out the interests of his brothers. From time to time since it was built as a substantial structure, the building had undergone alterations and improvements. Ashland Daily Tidings, November 29, 1924, page 1 A. A. Davis came to Medford in 1889 and built the first and only flouring mill. This was on South Front Street, and was burned only a few years ago. "Medford History Dates from Railway Inception," Medford Mail Tribune. Attributed to Jane Snedicor. Series begins February 28, 1932, page 3 Early Day Grain Mill Men Had
Faith in Area Future
 By Mary Alice Brusha
There
may be many men with more memories than Scott Davis, Raymond Miksche or
Oliver Morton. Hardly any have more cherished or rewarding experiences
of the early days in the feed, seed and grain business in the history
of Jackson County.
All three of these men share more than a common bond. They are sons of men who came to Southern Oregon back in the latter part of the past century and the early part of the present one. They are sons of men who made a success of the flour business in the days when wheat was the major farming commodity in Southern Oregon. Two of these early farm stores are still in operation at Medford. And like their fathers before them two of these sons are still giving the public the same type of efficient and expert service as well as the best merchandise obtainable in the field of farm products.  There are not too many 1888 pictures of Jackson County available. This was the year Ansel A. Davis left Minnesota for Medford. Pictures could not have described the breathtaking beauty of the evergreen forests, nestled among the mountains, nor the acres and acres of ripening wheat. No man had greater faith in the future of the Rogue Valley than A. A. Davis. He immediately designed and built the first roller mill at Medford. It was also the first roller mill south of Albany, Ore. The site he chose for his mill was at the corner of Ninth and South Front streets, across the street from the present Southern Pacific freight depot. Today the spot is used for a parking lot. Davis soon increased the capacity from 65 barrels to 80 barrels a day. No Electricity
There
was no electricity in the early days of the Davis mill. Wood was hauled
to the new venture from all over the valley. Four-foot lengths of
firewood, cut exactly right for the mill [boiler], were hauled by one-
and two-horse teams.
Scott Davis, a son of A. A. Davis, now 86, lives at 1914 E. Main Street. He began his career as a general "flunky." He held the top position of the company before he retired several years ago. "There wasn't a single thing in the flour business that I didn't do," he smiled. In recalling those first days, Scott said, there were sometimes as many as 40 teams and wagons extending far down Ninth Street waiting to be unloaded. The wooden sidewalks, usually filled with children, were the only escape from the dusty unpaved roads in the summer and the wet, black, sticky mud in the winter. Trips into town those days meant calling for the family meal and swapping stories for the men. The ladies looked over the new styles in fashion and bought provisions. To the children, it meant a chance to play. "But those were happy kids,'' Scott reminisced. "Kids growing up on raw cow's milk, mother's flapjacks and country smoked sausage." Population 500
"The population at the time we came to Medford was about [1000] people
in 1888. There was only one house east of Bear Creek. The Southern
Pacific railroad beat us to Medford by four years," Scott added. "It
was constructed in 1884."At the same time Davis was building his mill, he was also building a home for his family. It is noted that at the time it was built it was the finest home in Southern Oregon. The house was constructed directly across the street from the present city library and will be remembered as the Waterman residence. Just recently the former law offices of Robert Boyer were moved from the exact site. Following the construction of the Medford Milling Co., Davis built a mill at Phoenix, Ore., in those days called Gasburg. [The Gasburg name was long out of use by 1888.] He then joined partnership with W. I. Vawter, and together they organized the Jackson County Bank. He was one of its first officers. Together they built the Jackson County Bank building and the present store buildings extending from the corner of Main and Central to Sixth Street. "Davis' Best" brand was shipped to all local markets, and its quality established the owner [as] the best flour maker on the West Coast. In the meantime, he bought up large quantities of grain, and besides from being the first in line in his place, he advanced to the largest purchaser in his locality. In Washington Too
The
flour mills operated by the Big Bend milling Company at Davenport,
Wash., were built by A. A. Davis in 1890. These mills had a capacity of
350 barrels a day. This flour was shipped to local and foreign markets.
At all the Davis mills they manufactured baker's flour, whole wheat and
graham flour, mixed feed, bran shorts and steam-rolled oats.A. A. Davis was one of Medford's best-known pioneers. In 1900 he was the foremost businessman in Southern Oregon. The flour mills were not by any means all of Davis' enterprises. Mr. Davis bought extensive timberland in Jackson County and immense tracts of farm land, including and near the present Medford Golf Club. He also held a vast amount of mining properties in Oregon. In 1910, Davis sold the Medford mill to a Harry Nordwick from California and moved to Pacific Grove, Calif., where he lived until he died in 1930 at the age of 79. The mill was sold again [in 1918] to Eugene N. Vilm, who continued making the same best grade of flour until the mill was destroyed by fire in 1925. Mrs. A. A. Davis (Angelina M. Langdon), Scott's mother, turned the first spadeful of dirt marking the construction for the P&E railroad at Medford. Ironically she was killed in a Southern Pacific train accident near Ashland in 1900. A son-in-law of A. A. Davis, Harry Hosler of Ashland, was the editor and publisher of the first flower catalog ever to be published in Southern Oregon. Mr. Hosler was in the flower business. His dahlias won for him four out of five prizes at the 1926 Jackson county Fair. A. A. Davis was born at Beaver Dam, Wisc., April 30, 1851. His father, Chandler Davis, was a native of Vermont. He moved to Wisconsin in 1849. [His] was one of the first flour mills in that region, along with many other buildings, some of which are still standing today. In 1863, Chandler Davis moved his family to Freeborn County, Minnesota, near Albert Lea, [and] engaged in farming. A. A. Davis, the oldest in a family of three sons and three daughters, worked with his father on the farm until his 23rd birthday, when he embarked in a general merchandise business at Alden, Minn. This venture, like all his undertakings, was a success, but at the expiration of 12 years he disposed of his interests and departed for Medford. Had A. A. Davis been asked the secret of his success, he might have unhesitatingly attributed it to his continuous study of his occupation, to his ability to keep in the front ranks and to furnish as good, if not a little better, flour than was placed on the market by his competitors. He was a pioneer and the largest operator in his line in Southern Oregon. And because he established business interests which had no peer as far as substantiality [and] good management [was] concerned, he proved himself a leader in every sense of the word. Medford Mail Tribune, February 15, 1966, page 6 Last revised May 18, 2012 |
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