Special thanks are due the Painted Hills Genealogical Society, whose members transcribed the vast majority of this book to make it available on the Internet. This team includes:

Sandra Trapp, Bob Hollister, Lowell Mix, Debbie Simm, Ann Higgins, Jim Wynne, Deb Sterner, Terry Gray, Elaine Bingham, Hope Luedeke, Mary Tuma, Jack Hanrahan, Marilyn Cimino, Gerald Woodard, and Alan Malz, and Mary E. Bryant 

Laura Greene
San Diego, California
Coordinator, Cattaraugus County Bio and Census Index Projects
February 2004
Email: Lgg at interaccess.com
or
LauraGreene at adelphia.net

Manufacturing industries capitalized at three-quarters of a million dollars and with a labor capacity of nine hundred men have located in Olean within the past year.

Population in the same period has increase twenty-five per cent.

These achievements when compared with those of other eastern towns are phenomenal. Natural advantages largely, augmented by the work of a citizens’ Board of Trade, have accomplished this result.

The progression Olean has already made in the commercial world is but the forecast of a time in the immediate future when she shall rank first among the manufacturing centers of the Empire State.

And this will not be by accident; cities do not happen. They are the creation and development of adequate causes whose forces are capable of being determined, and, in a measure, directed. To demonstrate these causes as they apply to Olean, and advertise them, is the object of this work.

The compiler has endeavored faithfully to portray the Olean of today, giving prominence to such features as go to make up the ordinary business and social life of an active, growing town. Historical data is confined to the least possible limit. Biography and portraiture of many of these representative citizens whose activity forms a necessarily important part in the present status, will aid the stranger to a better and more pleasing acquaintance with the "City of Natural Advantages".

In this work the highest existing types of photographic and engraver’s art have been largely employed. The text is prepared with a view of rendering effective the labor of the artists, by conveying intelligently and concisely to manufacturers and investors such descriptive and statistical facts as they would desire to know if seeking a business or resident location. Where more specific information upon any subject is desired than can be obtained from the contents of this book, a letter to the secretary or any other office of the Board of Trade will receive prompt and merited attention.

The Compiler (1889)

On the map Olean is located in the south-western tier of counties of the Empire State, near the Pennsylvania line. In the world, Olean occupies the center of a country whose varied products constitute for it greater wealth than is possessed by any other section of equal area in the United States.

Within a radius of less than one hundred miles, and tributary to Olean , are the almost impenetrable forest of a hemlock belt, among which are interspersed acres of various kind of hard woods ,and from which must come the lumber and bark supply of the nation for years. At the south-west is the largest and most lasting of the yet discovered petroleum oil fields, and adjacent thereto the great natural gas producing territory of Pennsylvania. Among the fertile valleys of the Allegany and over the adjoining hills are lands productive in farming and grazing. To the north and in a highly cultivated country are the salt fields of Western New York, the limit of whose territory is as yet undefined, but known to be extensive enough to furnish the world s salt for ages yet to come, In adjoining counties are the Allegany oil and gas producing districts, and to the south-east, bituminous and anthracite coal and iron mines of the Keystone state. Glass rock superior flag and building stone, and rich deposits of clay abound.

This vast wealth of earth s treasures is incalculable; even the transactions of the day are beyond measure. It is upon this basis, Olean rest her claim of being the city of natural advantages, the particulars of which are treated at length in subsequent pages of this book.

The splendors of our inland scenery and the wonders of man s ingenuity are a sources of American pride, and no where is a country more prolific of the beauties of nature or the marvels of engineer s skill than that in the immediate vicinity of Olean

The wilds of Potter and Forest counties afford a paradise for sportsmen. Deer and bear are successfully hunted in season, while the streams render abundantly of the speckled trout. Lime, Silver and Chautauqua lakes are places of resort and summer carnival. The beauties of Portage Falls, of Kinzua viaduct, and the City of Rocks; the majestic glory of Niagara, and the marvelous processes of oil drilling, and mining, are among the subjects of greatest interest to tourist and sight-seers.

Topographically Olean is situated in a valley made by the junction of the Allegany river and its most important tributary, the extent of which is upwards of three thousand acres. It is built upon an eminence that gradually slopes in either direction from the business portion, and otherwise and naturally is adapted to the purposes of a city.

Photos:

School No. 1, School No. 3, City Building, Free Academy, Forman Library

Olean is rich in the elements of enduring prosperity. The citizens are possess of the idea, and are in active co-operation with the existing forces, to stimulate conservatively what otherwise would prove a slower, though inevitable growth. A most important factor in engaging the attention of inventors, and presenting to foreign manufacturers the advantages conspicuously possessed by Olean, has been its Board of Trade. This organization, perfected purely for commercially philanthropic purposes, has consummated its projects quietly and in good business form. Its efforts have been strenuously against creating any extravagant or unwarranted claims for Olean, and the present reasonable prices and firm values in real estate surely attest the success of the policy adopted. One feature of the board pleasant to contemplate, is the cosmopolitan character of its membership. Whoever has prospected under the guidance of an espion of the Board of Trade must have been impressed with the absolute good-fellowship which exists among the varied, and sometimes opposing trades and professions. The success, at least of this part of the life of Olean, is due to the lack of those elements of prejudice and retrogression so frequently indulged at expense of the public weal. Organization has precluded the possible indulgence of personally selfish motives by rendering their practice positively unpopular.

The Board of Trade was organized Oct. 6, 1887, under the following

We, the undersigned residents of Olean, hereby associate ourselves together as The Olean Board of Trade, for the purpose of promulgating its business advantages; introducing foreign trade and manufacture and fostering its present industries, to the end that our city shall continue in commercial growth, which by reason of natural and acquired resources, must necessarily result from the united efforts of her citizens.

President Coon in calling the Board to order spoke as follows:

Gentlemen of the Board of Trade

Permit me to congratulate you to-night upon having completed one year in the history of this organization; upon the success that has attended the effort made but a year ago by a number of our citizens to organize for the purpose of better conserving the interests of our young and growing city, and to more fully represents its many and varied advantages as a field for enterprise and capital to make remunerative investment. Located as we are at the junction or terminus of not less than six different rail roads, competing for our carrying trade, in one of the great centers of the oil and refining interest, surround on every side by forests of hemlock and hard woods easily accessible, with a system of public schools and elegant school buildings unsurpassed by any city of its size in the country, with numerous and well-constructed houses of worship, with an abundant supply of wholesome water for domestic use and protection from fire, with street railways and electric lights, no reason could possibly exist for remaining in status quo, save a lack of appreciation of our natural advantages, and lack of enterprise upon our part to properly and wisely present those advantages to capital and labor, that thereby they might be brought to us and become participators in these advantages.

All enterprising citizens grasped the idea and came nobly forward with every kind of encouragement and soon this board was working as one man for the accomplishment of the purposes for which it was organized.

I need not review the work that you have accomplished during the brief year of our existence, as our Secretary has prepared a somewhat elaborate report of the work already done, and our able and efficient Executive Committee will give you a detailed report of how much, and by what means they have through your encouragement and support been enable to accomplish. 

I again congratulate you upon your year’s success, much of which is due to the able and well directed services rendered by your Secretary and Executive Committee, both of whom have entered most earnestly into the work and have already proven what may be accomplished by the united efforts of our citizens when banded together in a unity of purpose.

In conclusion permit me to urge upon you the continuance of your organization in healthful, vigor, and not permit it to lapse into a state of indifference, feeling satisfied with what has already been accomplished, but rather, take the success of the past as an earnest of the future, and continue the active encouragement and support already vouchsafed.

Whilst much of the effort of this organization thus far has been spent in inducing outside capital to make investment with us, I believe that its fostering care should be given to encourage our old and well established industries; in suggesting and encouraging improvements that shall benefit as well as beautify our streets, our public buildings and our parks; that shall keep an eye upon public expenditures in order that extravagance and peculation may not waste the substance of the taxpayer. All of these considerations and many more that might be enumerated urge us to continue as an active organization.

Secretary Chapin presented his annual report. (Full text follows this record.)
Mr. Franchot, chairman of the Executive Committee filed his financial report duly audited.
Treasurer C. S. Stowell presented his annual report with vouchers which were ordered filed.
Upon motion the various reports of the officers were adopted and ordered printed.
Mr. Higgins moved that the thanks of the board be extended the Secretary for the preparation of his report.
Mr. Irish moved that a vote of appreciation be tendered the Executive and Membership Committees, and the President and Treasurer for their work upon the Board. Each motion prevailed.
Upon the positive refusal of Mr. Franchot and Mr. Higgins to further serve upon the Executive Committee, Messrs. W. D. Moore and E. E. Alderman were added to it. The result of the election of officers for the coming year is as follows:

President – J. V. D. Coon
Vice presidents – S. S. BULLIS, Wm. M. Irish, C. S. Cary
Treasurer – C. S. Stowell
Secretary – L. E. Chapin
Executive Committee – F. L. Bartlett, C. G. Thyng, A. T. Eaton, E. E. Alderman,
W. D. Moore
Mr. Sloan moved that the board adjourn to the time of the first regular meeting in November. Carried.

L. E. Chapin, Sec’y

A whole volume of significance upon the liberality of Olean in educational matters is found in the fact that the appropriation of $10,000 for erecting the last school building was passed by popular vote unanimously.

Page 6 – Picture caption: Exchange National Bank with the following information:

THE EXCHANGE NATIONAL BANK OF OLEAN, NEW YORK

CAPITAL STOCK PAID IN - $100,000

SURPLUS - $220,000

UNDIVIDED EARNINGS - $25,000

Mills W. Barse, President, Geo. V. Forman, Vice-President, Frank L. Bartlett, Cashier
Directors: C. S. Cary, Geo. V. Forman, D. C. LeFevre, M. W. Barse, F. L. Bartlett

OFFICES:

A. Exchange National Bank

1. A. T. Brown
2, 3. W. H. Mandeville & Co.
4. National Transit Co.
5. Western Union Telegraph Co., N. V. & P. Telephone Co. B. Olean Board of Trade
6. Geo. V. Forman
7, 9. Drs. C. H. & F. H. Bartlett
8. Jno. Coast & Sons
11. Tidewater Pipe Line
12. Franchot Bros.
13. L. E. Chapin, Olean Blue Stone Co.
14. Capt. A. J. Thompson
15. Dr. O. Whipple & Son
16, 18. Penna. Lumber Storage Co.
17. G. H. Strong, Black Giant Co.
20, 21. Ackerly & Sammuel
22, 23, 24, 25, 26. City Club

A YEAR’S GROWTH

The following is the full text of Secretary Chapin’s annual report:

Mr. President, Gentlemen of the Board of Trade:

It was the intention of your secretary to present in this first annual report statistical information relating to the entire present manufacturing interests of Olean, together with the building operations of the past year, but owing to the lack of promptness on the part of many from whom information was sought, this feature will have to be deferred. It is a work, however, which should be faithfully prosecuted, and the result put in permanent form.* (*This work now appears for the first time in subsequent pages of this book.)

One year ago tonight a meeting of citizens was held in the parlors of the City Club for "the purpose of organizing to further the commercial and manufacturing interests of Olean." At that meeting, over which Wm. M. Irish presided, sentiments of unanimity were so strongly expressed that an organization was perfected which could not otherwise than result in the realization of any scheme it should be deemed worth while to undertake. The officers whose terms expire to-night were elected, and at once an energetic campaign was instituted. Messrs. C. H. Rockwood, J. H. Truesdell and John Troy, of the membership committee, very soon had the signature of every prominent business man and property owner of the city. The commercial atmosphere became invigorating, and those who were possessed of faith in the natural advantages of Olean had their faith strengthened, while those who had none were invested with that which abides, and all joined enthusiastically in the work of the Board. There were no croakers. The word "boom," so frequently adopted, was in this case tabooed, and all ideas of ficticious values were rigorously avoided as being detrimental to the work, and calculated to result disastrously.

The first thing after organization was the issuing of a large number of circulars giving brief and concise information regarding the standing and resources of Olean. These were extensively distributed in the manufacturing centers of other states. As a result of this advertising I have received and answered nearly 800 letters, mostly of inquiry from capitalists, tradesmen and artisans who were seeking business opportunities, many of whom since have become citizens among us. It is proven that printing is a very chap, judicious and potent factor in the carrying out of the objects of the Board.

October 27, 1887, the people were given an instance of the actual workings of organized effort in locating outside industries. Messrs. Jas & W. P. Pierce & Co., of Boston, after prospecting in all the towns throughout the bark region and devoting several weeks to the work, signed with our executive committee. Mr. Pierce tells me so careful were they in selecting a location, that the price of provisions, clothing, building material, rents and all living expenses, as well as school and church privileges, were carefully considered in the interest of their employes. The thoroughness of the investigation and the happy outcome were significant facts and appreciated by our people. The fine tannery plant of the Messrs. Pierce, located upon State street, is now running. The business is capitalized at $250,000. One hundred and twenty-five hands are employed, and an immediate increase of 25 contemplated. The present production is 1,800 sides of leather per week.

The Olean Tooth-pick and Basket Co., organized by gentlemen from Belmont, located here Nov. 3. A new and commodious building was erected upon First street, under the supervision of the manager, Mr. E. C. Hart, and business began several months ago. Thirty-five hands are employed in this industry, and 900,000 boxes of tooth-picks and 25,000 dozens of baskets, or of the latter a car-load every two days, is the rate of annual output. This company had its trade to establish, and so gratifying is the result that a doubling of its capacity the next year is not improbable. 

The Olean Electric Light and Power Co. was formed by local capitalists Nov. 9^th. Capital stock was placed at $25,000, which was soon subscribed and paid in. Although work was at once begun on the plant of the company, owing to the winter season Olean did not have the benefit of the electric illuminant until June 13^th last. The company has doubled its capacity for arc lighting and added the incandescent system.

Messrs. C. A. Rubright and H. O. Dorman, of Corning, located brickworks at East Olean, Dec. 5^th. Early spring found operations actively begun, under direction of the superintendent, Mr. Fike. Forty men have been employed the season through. It is the purpose of the proprietors to immediately erect works and introduce machinery whereby the business of manufacture can be prosecuted winter as well as summer, when from 50 to 80 hands will find constant employment. Terra cotta and pressed brick will form a feature of this industry.

The upper-leather tannery of Wright, Clark & Co., though begun in construction just before the organization of the Board of Trade, was completed after the inauguration of its reign. These gentlemen came to Olean without other inducements than the ordinary advantages which exist. They were the first of our more recently acquired institutions to avail themselves of the facilities afforded tanners by our proximity to the bark fields and low tariff.

Page 8 – Picture Caption: Residence of S. S. Bullis, Laurens Street

December 9^th negotiations were consummated with W. C. A. Quirin by which a partially constructed tannery plant was to be removed from Eldred to this city. A satisfactory location was purchased by Mr. Quirin upon the Martin Farm, and although many vexatious delays consequent upon a project of that kind have occurred, not least among which were the legal proceedings instituted by the Board of Trade of Eldred to prevent removal, the plant was transported and is now ready for work. Its present capacity is 30 men and 500 calf skins daily.

The building of the Allegany & Kinzua railroad was by Olean capital and enterprise, and for the profit of the United Lumber Company, whose main offices are here. Mr. S. S. Bullis is present and Mr. J. E. Rooney auditor and treasurer. This road, from the heart of the hemlock district, makes it possible for Olean tanners to purchase bark at a lower figure than can be obtained at any other accessible point in this state or Pennsylvania.

January 12^th Mr. Geo. V. Forman made the generous offer to the library Association of the gift of the building upon Union street formerly used by him as an office, making the reasonable condition that the library should be properly endowed to insure its permanency. To this time the efforts of the library officials have not resulted to their satisfaction, and the title of the property still remains with Mr. Forman.

J. H. Luther & Sons added to their extensive works in February a fully equipped boiler shop, and employ in that branch 20 men.

The United Lumber Company, through the efforts of the Board, on the 26^th of February purchased 75 acres of land at the Erie depot upon which to locate their main distributing yards. When the contemplated operations of the company are fully consummated, from 150 to 200 men will be employed. This enterprise has contributed largely in influencing other institutions to locate that locality.

Page 9 – Picture caption: Dr. J. V. D. Coon, President of the Board of Trade

Picture Caption: D. S. Abbott
 

Page 10 – Picture caption: Tannery of Jas. & W. P. Pierce & Co. – Office 143 Summer Street, Boston
 

First to come were Fishers, Klaus & Co. of Buffalo, to engage in the general business of manufactured lumber. A factory was erected in the early spring, but owing to home engagements of the firm, nothing was done during the summer. In September their plant was purchased by Downs, Shea & McNeil, of Smethport, who at once began work upon an extensive scale. Fifty men will be employed and the business greatly increased.

Clark Bros., of Belmont, saw-mill machinery manufacturers, purchased a site of six acres upon the same tract, and ultimately intend to establish themselves in Olean. Although I have not definite advices to that effect, the transfer will probably be made in the coming year.

The City Steam Laundry located here in March and at once became a thriving business, employing ten hands.

April 10th the $25,000 armory appropriation became a law with the signature of the Governor. This act adds permanency to an institution in which there is justly a local pride. Owing to the necessary delays in official action at department headquarters, it is likely we shall not have substantial realization of this benefit till spring. It is a source of congratulation among members of the company that at their first annual inspection they obtained the high rating of 95.12 per cent and words of commendation from the inspecting officer.

Articles were signed May 22nd between Lee Calflin & Co. and this Board by which a tannery plant was to be built at North Olean. At the time of this report the works are nearly completed, and Nov.1st it is intended by the proprietors to begin the manufacture of leather. From 100 to 150 hands will be employed.

The sum of $10,000 was unanimously voted at a special school meeting July 19 of District No.1,for the erection of brick building No .6 $2,600 has this season been expended in District No. 3 for additions to school property. At a meeting of the Board the suburban localities previously designated Erie Depot, Martin Farm and Fair Ground, were named North, East, and West Olean respectively, and since that time have thus been known. The East Olean Methodist chapel was dedicated July 30th. It cost $2000. August 6th the corner stone of the $27,000 stone church of the St. Stephen parish was laid.

Green & Tothill of Scranton purchased the Myrick foundry, August 15th and are now busily at work. The firm known as Myrick Foundry and Machine Co. contemplate enlargement in the near future and adding to the general foundry business the manufacture of several specialties in saw- mill machinery.

At a special election August 27th $12,500 were appropriated for additions to our water works system , which will include a new pump house and the purchase of a Gaskell pump having 3,000,000 gallons daily capacity.

Through the efforts of the Board, I G. Jenkins of Williamsport, September 12th began the erection of a factory at North Olean for the manufacture of Hall’s patent sheating lath. A general manufacturing business will be connected therewith under the management of Mr. W.L. Frazee. From 30 to 40 hands will be employed from the outset.

The W.N.Y. & P. Ry. Co. have recently acquired additional land upon Reed street by the aid of our executive committee, and are erecting three large buildings thereon for the use in connection with their present shops. Within the past year two complete locomotive engines have been made here, and it is the purpose of the company to increase their laboring force 100 men as soon as the new buildings are complete, and manufacturing coaches. The possible future developments of this company are liable to be greater than we dare forecast. The work of double-tracking the line from this city to Hinsdale, made necessary by increased business is being actively pushed.

The free delivery postal system was inaugurated Oct. 1st with five carriers.

Thurber & Hatch have recently started in the manufacture of saw-mill machinery and general repair work in a shop on Union street. This firm are employing five skilled mechanics and intend extending their facilities by the addition of a foundry

Mr. H.W. Moore, originator of the Black Giant and the Hollis Rams Horn spring, has recently perfected and patented a practically non-explosive steam boiler. The making of these boilers will commence at once at the works of the Myrick Foundry and Machine Co. E.M. Johnson is interested with Mr. Moore in the enterprise and it is the intention of the firm to soon build a factory.

The Keystone Gas Co. has extended its supply of mains between four and five miles this season, and report an increase in the number of new consumers upon the old lines of one hundred per cent more than that of last year. Olean is becoming headquarters for a great number of commercial travelers, which fact is significant. A parochial school by St. Mary’s church is positive. The Riverside cemetery is being beautifully fitted up at an enormous expense, as a fit resting-place for the dead. Resident improvements internal and external have marked the year. Our pioneer industrial institutions report good trade, while in mercantile circles business was never better.

[Photo of "E. E. Alderman, Member of the Executive Committee]

This report purposely contains much of a public nature with which the Board of Trade had not directly to do. Such is deemed necessary to make complete the record of the year’s growth. The Board has of itself, however, accomplished much. Through the able and unremitting efforts of Messrs. Franchot, Bartlett, Eaton and Higgins of the soliciting committee, our citizens have subscribed $13,408 cash, and donated land to the value of $11,255, a sum total of $24,663 which has been distributed to new industries locating in Olean. Besides this gratuity we have voluntarily subscribed $49,000 for church purposes, and voted for extraordinary water, school and sewer purposes $28,100 making $101,763 virtually contributed as a free-will offering for the public welfare. This again, is outside our ordinary annual expenses which are: for schools $22,180; water department $15,475; municipal expenditures $16,000; an aggregate of $69,655 and a grand aggregate of $171,418. And yet our people like it and consider the investments good. These figures seem large, but as a matter of fact the actual tax rate in Olean is lower than that of towns of any magnitude which posses and enjoy the same advantages.

Conservative estimates place our population at 12,500 people, an increase of 2,500 within a twelve-month. The increase of the business at the postoffice for the two quarters just ended is at the rate of $1,700 a year. The last school census shows 12 per cent. increase over the one preceding it.

[Photo of "Hon. James Pierce]

The great length of this report necessarily precludes any reference to our established industries, to which the additions of last year form but a small percentage. As a correspondent has said: "To secure further exalted position requires the continued co-operaton of every citizen." The secret of the success of the Board of Trade lies largely in the fact of a unity of purpose, which, combined with loyal enterpise [sic], has brought about a most satisfactory and healthful growth for Olean.

Respectfully, L. E. Chapin, Secy.

The Pennsylvania Hemlock Belt, upon the northern edge of which Olean is situated, embraces a vast tract of something more than a million acres of yet almost unbroken forests, stretching from the head-waters of the Allegany and the Susquehanna to the mouth of the Clarion river, and back into the very heart of the Allegany mountains. The best is perhaps from fifty to seventy miles square and embraces the greater part of Potter, McKean, Cameron, forest, Elk and a part of Warren county, Pa., and a small corner of Cattaraugus county, N. Y., and is largely on streams which empty their waters into the Allegany river - the Clarion, the Tionesta, the Hickory, Kinzua. Sugar Run, Willow, Quaker, Red House, Tuna, Oswayo, Potato, Marvin and scores of other water-ways of the Allegany and Susquehanna system. It is fairly estimated that the Pennsylvania belt contains more than one-half of the hemlock timber now standing in the United States east of the Rocky mountains. Well imformed [sic] lumbermen estimate that the stumpage of this million-acre tract will run nearly 15,000 feet of hemlock lumber and ten cords of bark to the acre, making a grand total of fifteen billion feet of the former and ten million cords of the latter of these great staples. By reason of the railroad facilities and the peculiar topography of the country, we find here the anomaly of a boundless forest upon the very pathway of trans-continental commerce. Nearly all other great forests now standing are far remote from the through line of travel and freight traffic. But the water-ways and the lateral lines of railroad diverging from Olean into this densely wooded domain, places the Pennsylvania hemlock belt in a peculiarly favorable location.

This magnificent forest, with its rich and almost inexhaustible product, is an important feature of Olean’s natural environment. By virtue of the rail-ways and water-ways converging in this valley, Olean is the distributing point for the greater part of this vast tract. A large per cent. of the product of these forests, whether as raw material or manufactured articles, must pass directly through this city to reach a market either in the east or west. This fact is becoming generally understood and appreciated by the lumber trade, and there has already begun here a concentration of the leading lumber interests of the entire belt and Olean will within a very short time become the largest and most important hemlock market in the world, and the seat of the most extensive tanning interests on this continent. Recognizing the advantages of location and railroad facilities, the Pennsylvania Lumber Storage Company was recently incorporated and began business with its central office and main yards in this city. The company embraces all of the leading operators and holders of land in the hemlock belt, and the purpose of the organization is to concentrate the business in Olean, shipping the product of the innumerable mills throughout the tract to this city, where the lumber is stored, sorted, dressed and seasoned, and again re-shipped to the various markets. New railroads have but recently been built into hitherto trackless and inaccessible forests by which they are made tributary to Olean, and their vast and rich product place at our doors.

The hemlock of the Pennsylvania belt does not embrace the half of its wealth. It is likewise rich in hardwoods of almost every variety. The best cherry in the world grows abundantly on this tract, besides oak, ash, maple, cucumber, beech, basswood, and the finest birch of the various kinds, making a location here peculiarly advantageous for the manufacture of furniture of every description, and the wide range of articles made from natural woods.

The bark supplied from the Pennsylvania hemlock belt possesses fully twenty per cent, more of tannic acid than that furnished from any other quarter, and it sells for a correspondingly higher figure in the eastern markets. It is vastly superior to the bark from the Canadian, Northwestern or Alaskan forests. *

Pennsylvania hemlock bark brings $10 a cord delivered at the tanneries in and around Boston, the quotations rarely falling below that figure. The same product which brings $10 a cord in Boston can be delivered in Olean in any quantity at from $5.25 to $5.50 a cord-effecting a savings to the tanners here over those in Boston of fully 45 per cent. 

PHOTO: Hon. C. S. Cary

----------------

* An analysis of the hemlock bark of various sectors, made by the eminent chemist, Dr. H. E. Sturkey, showing the following relative strength or presence of tannic acid:

Wisconsin hemlock 6 per cent. tannic acid.
Michigan hemlock 7.25 per cent. tannic acid
Ohio hemlock 7.25 per cent. tannic acid
Canadian hemlock 7 per cent. tannic acid
Alaskan hemlock 7.30 per cent. tannic acid
Pennsylvania hemlock 8.50 per cent. tannic acid

On the item of bark. When the vast amount of bark used in a single year is taken into consideration this becomes an important factor. With ten million cords of bark at our doors, 20 per cent, superior in tanning qualities to any other bark, and at about half the price to any other bark, and at about half the price which eastern tanners must pay for it, it would seem that Olean’s advantages in this direction could not fail to be recognized and appreciated by the tanners of the East. Within the last year this condition has been the means of securing the location here of five extensive tanneries.

Sam H. Coon.

------------------------------------------------------- 

Olean’s public schools are the greatest inducement that can be offered anyone seeking a home. 

PHOTO: Wm. D. MOORE - Member of the Executive Committee

Buffalo Evening News: -- Olean is growing. There is nothing new, for it has been growing pretty fast for quite a number of years. But within the past few months in particular, through the force of natural advantages which the place does undeniably possesses and the energetic and effective labors of a Board of Trade which is ahead of that of almost any town in the country, east or west, from push, tact and general efficiency, the town has fallen heir to new industries and acquire improvements which in number and magnitude probably surpass the foundest dreams which the most sanguine and ambitious citizen dared to indulge. 

The first white settlement of Olean was instituted in 1803 by Major Adam Hoops, an officer in the army of General Washington. Major Hoops was attracted hither by the idea that this would be upon the main thoroughfare of emigration from the east to countries along the Ohio and Mississippi, justly reasoning that by embarking upon the Allegany at this point a cheaper and more convenient route would be afforded than the on then in use overland through New Jersey and Pennsylvania to Pittsburgh. A circuit rider of those days has placed it in history that "the only access to the place was by an indifferent road from the county of Steuben to King’s settlement in Pennsylvania, and from thence by river to your destination."

In 1810 a road was chartered by the state "from Canandaigua by the head of Conesus Lake, by the most eligible route to the mouth of Olean river." This was the first departure from the trail of the Indian. The same year a road was opened from Buffalo to Olean, also one from Cerestown, PA to Olean and from thence to the outlet of Chautauqua lake, and to Lake Erie. In 1815 a road was built from Angelica to Olean, and one from Batavia by way of Warsaw. A state road was authorized in 1823 from a point on the Pennsylvania line where the Kittaning road terminates. Then as now, all road lead to Olean. They were the highways through which passed the very heavy tide of emigration that had set in to the north part of Ohio and the Western Reserve.

For several years succeeding the opening of this route, and particularly during the decade which preceded the completion of the Erie canal from Albany to Buffalo, each return of spring the grounds abut Olean Point were covered by the temporary encampment of an emigrant army awaiting the lifting of the ice embargo. It is related that these people were sometimes detained in camp so long that a scarcity of food prevailed – flour bringing $25 a barrel, port $50, and other necessities an equally high price. Emigrants came from Buffalo, Batavia, Canandaigua, Geneva, Bath, Albany and New England, embarking upon flat boats or primitive rafts which were often rudely built by themselves during an enforced stay at the Point. It is estimated that for a time as many as 3,000 emigrants left for the west annually.

It is a matter of record that in 1834 more than 300,000,000 feet of timber were rafted down the river and quantities of salt from the Onondaga salt springs were brought overland and shipped to Pittsburgh and Cincinnati. Efforts were made to navigate the river up stream, but with only partial success. Although as a fact accomplished, the process was so laborious that to transport merchandise from Pittsburgh to Olean cost $1.25 per hundred, whereas, the other way it cost but a shilling.

The projectors of the Erie canal had contemplated it connection not only with Lake Erie, but also with the Allegany at Olean, and it was believed that this branch would prove as important as that from Rochester to Buffalo. Among its advocates were Gov. Dewitt Clinton, Gideon Lee, Thaddens B. Wakeman and the common councils of both New York and Brooklyn besides petitioners to the number of twenty-five hundred from the former city. In the meantime the canal had been finished to Buffalo and traffic largely diverted in consequence.

By the persistent effort of its friends the construction of this branch was begun in 1836. The work dragged slowly along until completion in 1856.

The navigation of the Allegany was all along considered of prime importance by the government and in 1837 congress ordered a survey made by Maj. George W. Hughes, who reported among other things that "the steamboat Newcastle had ascended without great difficulty from Pittsburg to Olean, and could even under present circumstances, make regular trips between these places". Maj. Hughes’ report throughout was very favorable. It was confidently expected that steam navigation of the river would be accomplished, and in conjunction with the canal which was then building, a traffic be established greater than that of any other line in the country. One writer of the time says:

"Either of these improvements will give this county the carrying trade of the eastern section of the United States, to thirteen of the southern, southwestern, and western states. As goods can be transported much safer, cheaper, and earlier in the spring, on the river than the lakes, the river would be preferred, and the trade of the rich extensive valley of the Mississippi will be done through this channel. There is now a communication from Olean, in this county, to more than twenty thousand miles of navigable rivers, into thirteen of the United States, which embrace half the population of the union."

But the tides of emigration and of traffic had so changed with the opening of the Erie canal to Buffalo that nothing was done by the government or by individuals which lead to the improvement of the Allegany, although companies were formed for the purpose - one so late as 1851, of which the Hon. W. F. Wheeler, now president of the First National Bank, was vice-president.

The usefulness of the proposed canal was circumscribed before its completion by the building of the Erie railroad in 851, and although it remained open as water-way for twenty-two years succeeding 1856, it served only the immediate territory through which it passed, the state maintaining it at a loss.

Railroads have made for all artificial and internal navigation lines about the same history. Wherever located they are a tax burden upon the people, whose term of forbearance determines the length of their life. Notwithstanding the pioneers of Olean built their faith in future greatness upon these water-commerce schemes, the realization of which came far short of early expectations, the town, which then had no greater apology for life than any other of Western New York, gradually grew and maintained a vigorous life until the time but a few years ago, when favorable winds caught the sails and sped the bark on to prosperity.

(Photo - Eclipse Lubricating Works, Buffalo Street)

Of all the wealth of acquired resources there are none in which the resident of Olean feels a greater or more pardonable pride than in the public schools. More than two thousand of the future men and women of the nation are here each day pursuing that mental development which insures good citizenship and consequent good government.

The members of the Board of Education are C. H. Rockwood, President; W. V. Smith, Secretary; A. Blake, F. D. Muckey, J. E. K. Morris, H. W. Chamberlin, Alfred Dickinson, John W. Pratt, Chas. Gillingham. G. W. D. Baird is clerk.

The teachers are, W. L. MacGowan, superintendent, Misses Gertrude Miller, Mary F. Hinds, L. Adelle Willis, Clara W. Curtiss, Lucy E. Hamilton, Edith E. Armstrong, Ella A. Cook, Elizabeth Goode, Mary A. Sweeting, Alice F. Raub, Mary E. Mathews, May L. Lowell, Mrs. Cora E. Pingrey, Misses Georgia McIntosh, Mary E. Ney, Gemella Crawford, Anna K. Feuchter, Hattie F. Crocker, Minnie E. Peck, Victoria E. Bailey, Alice James, Esther F. Barents, Ida A. Dickenson, Mary O’Meara, Ida A. Sanderson, Elnora L. Tate, Mary Larkin, Flora Brooks, Belle Parish, Mary Blackmer, Florence G. Sikes, Jane Simpson, Carrie E. King, Florence M. Breede, Mr. F. E. Mandeville.

The trustees of district No. 3 are A. C. Burlingham, M. J. Haugh. The teachers are F. W. Mundt, principal, Wm. Collins, Misses Agnes Coyle, Mary McCormick, Ella Grear, Minnie Maloney.

Olean has seven new and convenient school buildings, valued, with their grounds at $90,000. The principal of these are models in point of seating, lighting, heating, ventilation, and all that pertains to advanced modern ideas of educational institutions and the comfort and health of the scholars.

At present our academy stands high on the list of the state, and inasmuch as this progress is due to my associate teachers and their predecessors, and not to my influence, I may be allowed to state that each annual report finds us nearer the top of the list.

Our academic curriculum includes forty studies from which students and their parents may choose a course. In the natural sciences it includes botany, zoology, physic, physical geography, physiology, astronomy, chemistry and geology. In mathematics, algebra, geometry plane and solid, trigonometry, book-keeping and astronomy. In languages, German, French, Latin and Greek. In literature and history, American history, English history, Roman history, Grecian history, English literature and American literature, and in philosophy, moral philosophy, mental philosophy, political economy, science of government and logic.

There are five courses of study. First, the preparatory academic course; second, the English academic course; third, the German scientific course; fourth, the Latin scientific course, and fifth, the classical college-entrance course.

There have been 278 graduates from our preparatory academic course, 67 

graduates from our English academic course, while 54 have finished the German scientific, Latin scientific and classical college-entrance courses receiving diplomas therefor. Many of our graduates go on into the colleges of our land. One-half of the graduating class of last June will take a college course, while a greater number of the class of ’89 will get a higher education. One fact in connection with the graduating class is worthy of notice. The average age of the graduates is being reduced so that last year we found it to be 17 years and 2 months.

The school library, in the pleasant library room in building No. 3, contains 1,800 volumes at present and will soon be enriched by a large appropriation from the state. The supply of chemical and physical apparatus for the academy, although not adequate is still not meager, having originally cost $1,200.

(Photo - John Sloane)

Nor has growth and progress been confined to the academic department. In the common school course, rapid strides to the front rank have been made. Development is no longer confined to the mental side of the child’s nature. The course in physical culture occupies a prominent place in our schools. Grace of movement and carriage are required and great benefit has resulted from this addition to the course. Formerly, the child was led to express thought almost entirely by spoken word, later on the expression of thought by means if the written page was incorporated into our methods with great benefit. Now we are endeavoring to add to these two principal means, two other modes of thought expression—viz. by drawing and by making. The subject of industrial drawing is receiving more and more attention.

The industrial department and workshop, though comparatively in its infancy, is a feature the benefits of which are growing in importance day by day. When the teachers are questioned about the boys who helped in our little work-shop, they almost always invariably tell me that they worked better afterward. They seemed to acquire an additional interest. Many times a half hour’s work in the shop has completely changed the conduct of a restless and unruly boy.

The board of education has recently introduced a saving bank system into the schools with the view of instilling habits of thrift and economy into the pupils and their homes. Deposits of one cent and upward are received by the teacher every Wednesday morning, and the pupils may draw money on Wednesday morning by giving notice of one week. 

(Photo - Prof. E. D. Westbrook)

Every child is furnished with a school saving-bank book free. Checks, receipts and slips of deposit are also furnished by the board and every child above the 1^st grade is required to fill them out. This is done not only for the protection of both pupil and teacher, but also to teach pupils to do business in a business way. The week the banking system was inaugurated $236 were deposited.

W. L. MacGowan.

The matter of greater or less freights is an important one to every manufacturer. Prior to April 5^th, 1887, the time of the inauguration of the provisions of the inter-state commerce law, it was catch-as-catch-can with the various cities as to which should be most favored in railroad rates. The cost of freight transportation was an unstable as the winds. Cut rate followed pool rate – one extreme the other, and each succeeding first of January terminated all. The law has leveled these inequalities and given permanency to the conditions which regular the carrying tariff.

The Olean rate is the same as the Buffalo rate, that is, rates between Olean and New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Cleveland, Detroit, St. Louis, Chicago and other commercial centers east, west, north and south, are identical with those to or from Buffalo and the same places, and the Buffalo rate is necessarily low because of the competition afforded by the Erie canal system to tidewater and the great lakes to the west. Water rates are always low, and Olean, by reason of geographical location, possesses the advantage accruing to Buffalo from this source.

While is on equal footing with Buffalo in the important matter of freights, she can offer manufacturers the further greater inducement of cheaper labor. And this is not at the expense of the laborer, but for the reason that most laborers own their own homes, and where rents are paid, because of cheaper rents and of cheaper living – advantages which cannot be possessed by populous and area-covering cities. Olean’s labor is dignified, intelligent and lives well. We have no "shanty-town."

PHOTO: RILEY & WANDS, Cor. Union and Sullivan Streets

A leading pulp manufacturer of the East who has a visiting acquaintance in Olean, in reply to an inquiry, wrote: "Your place is unsurpassed in this country for the manufacture of sulphite pulp from hemlock. Shipping facilities east and west are admirable, and another very important factor is water which can be obtained from wells and is thus uniform in purity thoroughout the year and not effected by freshet. The fuel, either coal or gas is an element of cheapness in manufacture, and combined with the class of labor that can be obtained in Olean, the freight facilities and water, render it possible to materially reduce the present cost of wood pulp."

It appears that up to 1804 the stream went by the Indian name of Ischue or Ischua (floating nettles). From a letter written by Adam Hoops to Joseph Elliott, it appears that the former gentleman wishes to change the name from Ischua to Olean. The subjoined copy of the letter, furnished by Hon. George Van Campen, is the most authentic document bearing upon this subject now in existence:

Canadaigua, N. Y., April 15, 1804

To Joseph Ellicott, Esq., Batavia, New York

DEAR SIR – It was proposed to me at New York to drop the Indian name Ishue or Ishua

(it is also spelt other ways). Confusion might arise from the various spellings, of which to obviate all risks I have concluded so to do as proposed. the neighborhood of the oil spring suggests a name different in sound, though perhaps not different in meaning, which I wish to adopt – It is ‘Olean.’ You will do me a favor by assisting me to establish this name. It may be easily be done now by your concurrence. The purpose will be most effectually answered by employing the terms, when occasion requires, without saying anything of an intended change of the name. To begin, will greatly oblige me by addressing the first letter you may have occasion to write to me, after I receive the survey, to the mouth of Olean. The bearer being properly instructed, there will be thereafter no difficulty. Your co-operation in the matter (the effort of which, though not important in itself, may be so on account of precision) will oblige.

Your obed’t servant,

A. Hoops

Whether or not Mr. Ellicott acted at the request of Adam Hoops is not shown, but from careful research we find no definite use of the name of "Olean" to the village proper until 1823. In his admirable series of articles on the early history of Olean, James G. Johnson, Esq., says:

"When the village was first laid out it was called Hamilton, in honor of the great and popular stateman, Alexander Hamilton, but the local designation of Olean Point was generally used, and in course of time entirely supplanted the name of Hamilton. There never was any formal change of names, the substitution of one for the other being made by common custom and consent. I think the first semi-official abandonment of Hamilton and adoption of Olean was in the authorized village map, published in 1823."

In a communication touching the establishment of the post-office at Olean, acting assistant postmaster-general James H. Marr states that the post-office was never officially named Hamilton, but was established at Olean in 1817

1810 – 458
1814 – 276
1820 – 1,047
1825 – 404
1830 – 561
1835 – 830
1840 – 638
1845 – 550
1850 – 899
1855 – 1,611
1860 – 2,706
1865 – 2,701
1870 – 1,668
1875 – 3,103
1880 – 3,500
1885 – 8,650
1889 – 12,500
PAGE 20 – Picture caption: Sole Leather Pad Co., Union Street
 

When the pioneers of western New York were boiling the brickish waters of the few salt licks here and there found, they little suspected that a hundred feet of solid rock salt was beneath their feet. For all the light which science or state geologists could throw upon the subject, we should be in profound ignorance of its existence to the present hour. Somehow about the time a thing is wanted some one accidentlly or incidentally discovers it. Salt is no exception.

How discovered? It was in this wise. Years ago one of the staid worthy farmers of Middlebury, dreamed that under his farm was a valuable deposit. Night after night this dream was repeated. Finally he made an effort to discover whether his dream "was all a dream" by drilling with a spring pole to the depth of two hundred feet.

PHOTO: J. B. Smith

Nothing but shale rock rewarded his labor. Half a century passed. A son of the old man had made a fortune in oil. He remembered the efforts of his father, he remembered the dream also. Of course he did not believe in dreams but nevertheless for diversion merely, he resolved to put down a well on the old homestead. Result, the discovery of salt. 

This was the beginning of the salt industry in what is known as the Wyoming salt field.

It may not be profitable to raise the question how this vast deposit of salt came here. After all our theorizing we have very little proved.

Warsaw was first after Middlebury to put down a test well and the success of the first venture induced others, in Warsaw, Rock Glen, Castile, Mt. Morris, Piffard, York, LeRoy and other places, to push the salt enterprises.

All this extensive business, revolutionizing a national industry, is the result of a vision of the night. Who shall say there is nothing in dreams?

All the processes of obtaining the brine, evaporating the salt and putting the product for market into bags and sacks marked "Liverpool," Ashton Dairy" and other popular brands are now well understood.

PHOTO: B. U. TAYLOR

It is dawning upon many, who must have foreign salt, that they have been paying an extra price for "pure Liverpool," made at Pearl Creek if not at LeRoy. It may do no hurt to know that branded sacks are sent into the Wyoming valley salt field by the car load, filled with as good salt as the world affords, shipped to New York and sent back and sold to those who think no good thing can be produced at home. the present capacity of all the plants in the Wyoming field is about 6,000 barrels per day.

In the town of York, near Piffard, is the Retsof mining company which has put down a shaft to the depth of one thousand feet. Here salt is mined on a large scale. Just step in with me and take a look at things. Never knew anything about a salt shaft? Well it is no marvel that you don’t for this is the only one in the United States. Over the shaft, that is sixteen by twenty-two feet, the company has erected a huge structure of great height and put in boilers and engines capable of developing nine hundred horse power. Take a standing seat in a car and go down to the salt rock. You will observe that the vein now being worked is twelve feet in thickness beneath your feet, below which is a solid salt rock thirty feet in thickness.

The rolls show eighty men engaged in mining, each of whom is furnished with a candle. Mining is done by blasting with powder, no dynamite is used. Twelve mules draw the salt to the shaft on railroads constructed and extended as the salt is taken out. Pillars thirty feet square are left to support the roof of the mine, only about one-half of the salt being removed.

Go up to top of the building and see the cars com up and dump themselves on to a huge screen, taking out all lumps the size of a two quart measure or larger. The balance goes on to rollers and is crushed and screened. The fine called No. 1, goes to the soda ash works at Syracuse. No. 2 is about the size of wheat, while No. 3 is coarser, up to the bigness of beans or larger.

All lumps go to supply a want on the ranches and sheep ranges as well as in city stables. Nos. 2 and 3 are popular with beef and pork packers; Chicago alone takes ten cars a day on a yearly contract.

Eight hundred tons is now the daily output, an amount but little less than the combined product of all the wells in the whole Wyoming salt field.

Another shaft is being sunk about half a mile from the first one, not for the purpose of hoisting salt, but to comply with the law requiring it for ventilation and as a means of escape for the miners in case of an accident. When another shaft shall be sunk in Pavilion at the Lackawanna junction with a a capacity equal to the Restof works, twelve thousand barrels per day, or the enormous amount of four and a half million barrels per annum, shall be brought to the surface and sent into the markets of the country, salt will not be an expensive necessity. That salt can be mined much more cheaply than it can be produced by artificial evaporation is now demonstrated; only one question remains to settle the future method of salt production: is the mined salt as pure as that crystallized in the grainer? 

SETH AMES

PAGE 22 – Picture caption: Olean Chemical Works

Aside from the recreation and athletic sport afforded by boating upon the Allegany, Olean’s surroundings abound in opportunities for every day pleasures. There are miles of level drives, the equestrian paths of the woods, the sequestered river banks, the picnic grounds, the city of rocks, and the many and picturesque views attained from the adjoining mountains.

Further away, but subject to cent-a-mile summer excursion rates, are the varied and famous resorts of Western New York. Chautauqua, the seat of the C. L. S. C., and the promotor of laziness and learning; Lime Lake, an hour’s ride and the fisherman’s paradise; Silver Lake, the scene each year of a twenty thousand attended pioneer picnic, and of Methodist and temperance camp meetings; Cassadaga Lake, the resort of the spiritualists; the beautiful falls at Portage with historical surroundings and the high bridge of the Erie; charlotte, the Coney island of the interior, the Kinzua viaduct, the medicinal springs of Sizer and of Avon; the Niagara Falls and the chain of great lakes are all within a day’s visit. As another has said, "Nature’s boldest strokes and brightest bits of color, as well as her most delicate designs are grouped about our city’s walls."

In Turner’s description of the Holland purchase, mention is made of a place upon the "divide" in Allegany county a little east of the Cattaraugus boundary on the Olean road to Rushford, where the waters of the Canadea and oil (Olean) creeks approach each other, and in freshets mingle, affording the facility for trout to pass over the dividing ridge and thus from the St. Lawrence river to the Gulf of Mexico or vice versa.

PAGE 23 – Picture caption: W. H. Simpson, Chief of Olean Fire Department

PAGE 23 – Picture caption: Frank W. Higgins

THE FORMAN STOCK FARM

When one, in doing the sights of the city tires of the wonders of natural gas, the odors of refining and ceaseless din of the various factories, a restful contrast comes in a visit to the stock farm of Mr. George V. Forman---a contrast enjoyed by all, whether city folks or rustic. Here amidst most perfect surroundings is the scientific breeding and care of Jersey cattle studied and practiced, and here can be seen the highest types of bovine perfection. The farm is a rich man’s past-time. Many of the animals not bred by Mr. Foreman are of his own importation from the Isle of jersey, whence he makes occasional visits for the purposes of selection.

In summer over one-hundred of these fawn-colored cattle with glossy coats may be seen grazing upon the broad fields of the farm, or in winter safely housed under one roof where are gathered all the conveniences, even luxuries for cow housekeeping. To the right and left of a broad floor two-hundred and sixty feet long stand the cattle facing. Their stalls being open it front they are secured by a rope tied to a ring which slides upon a perpendicular pole, thus affording greatest freedom to their movements. Each stall is labeled with the name of its occupant. The cows are fed upon the floor, and watered from a series of suspended troughs, which, when not in use are carried above their heads and out of the way by pullies and weights. To the rear of the cattle are broad aisles and conveniently situated are spacious box stalls for the use of the dams and their offspring. The lighting and sanitary arrangements of the great barn are perfect. Five or six men are constantly at work about the place and the uniform courtesy they show visitors convinces one that he is prospecting upon a gentleman’ s estate, even though the master hand is not there. Adjoining buildings upon the same generous plan are occupied by the creamery, the feed mills with their power, the ensilage pits and the fodder storage.

Mr. Forman is a wealthy oil operator who sees in the care of these beautiful cattle the enjoyment of a pleasing fancy, and he lavishly expends of his fortune for the welfare of these pets.

The appellation "City of Natural Advantages" was doubtless acquired before half Olean’s advantages were known, though the exact source cannot be traced. Its location within the ox-bow formed by the Allegany river and Olean creek; the perfect drainage thus obtained upon three of its sides; the fact that it is at the end of the backbone of the Allegany mountains and at the junction of three widely diverging valleys which render a natural passage way, and the only one from the north to the south between Binghamton and Warren, for canals, railroads and highways; and being in the early days at the head waters of Mississippi river navigation, evidently earned for Olean the distinction which it enjoyed even before its advantages were so largely augmented by the discovery of oil, gas, stone coal, iron, salt, and other products.
 
 

PAGE 24 – Picture caption; "Fairview," Residence of R. O. Smith

Refined petroleum has become by its cheapness, the people’s light. In the United States are used 220,000,000 gallons a year. It goes all over Europe and the Orient. As one eloquently writes: "It blazes in Polynesia and far Carthay; in Burmah, Siam and Java the bronzed denizens toil and dream, smoke opium and swallow hasheesh, woo and win, love and hate, and sicken and die under the rays of this wonderful product of our faithful caverns."

The most important field for the production of the raw material – petroleum – is in a territory beginning in Allegany county, New York, and extending southwesterly through eight or nine counties of Pennsylvania, making a belt about one hundred and fifty miles long and from twelve to twenty miles wide, and then with an interval, running into Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee, and again into California and New Mexico, where the yield is as yet unimportant. In Russia, Europe, there is a limited territory, producing however, large quantities of oil. The quality however, is such that American oil successfully competes with it in most of the markets of the world.

The Pennsylvania fields, of whose product a greater quantity is stored at Olean, than at any other place, are the largest and most important in the world.

The discovery of oil may be said to properly date back only thirty years, although prior to the advent of the whites in this section, the Seneca Indians gathered it by means of hemlock boughs from springs upon the surface of which it appeared. This was called Seneca oil and was used by the Indians, and later by the white settlers for medicinal purposes. These springs resulted from the oil rock appearing or coming so near the surface as to allow its product to escape through water channels. They were first found along the present Oil creek in Pennsylvania, and one now exists near the village of Cuba in this state. In 1859 Col. E. L. Drake drilled the pioneer oil well, near Titusville. Oil was found at a depth of seventy feet and a hitherto unknown source of wealth discovered to the world. In 1860 with two thousand oil wells begun, the oil fever became universal. Towns and cities sprang up as by magic, full fledged and with all the ways of a metropolis. Fortunes were made quickly and fortunes as quickly lost. With petroleum at $10 a barrel in 1864 the wild-cat drill was swiftly plied, opening up and defining new territories. The excitement continued for some time, but gradually the production of petroleum settled into legitimate business channels, as the fast increasing production rendered the product less valuable. At this date, March 1889, one dollar a barrel for crude oil is being devoutly wished for, while the reigning price is from eighty to ninety cents.

Most oil lands are leased from the owners, at so much cash bonus per acre and a 1/8 or ¼ royalty of all the oil produced. As each well will drain the oil from a considerable distance about it, there is an unwritten law regarded among oil producers that wells shall not be drilled within such and such distances from the boundary line of another man’s land, and the one who disregards this custom is held among the fraternity in about the same light as a highwayman. Wells vary in depth in the Pennsylvania fields from 1,200 to 2,000 feet, the work of drilling having been greatly simplified and cheapened since the infancy of the industry.
 
 

There are usually three strata of oil bearing sand rock in each well, the third being always the most prolific. Oil and gas are contiguous. The presence of gas in an oil well is sometimes of such volume when the vein is struck, as to throw the drilling tools out of the hole, and the oil and broken rocks far above the derrick. When these flows continue or occur periodically, after a well as been connected up to a storage tank, the well is called a flowing well. If either the gas or oil show signs of diminution, the well is "shot" or "torpedoed," an operation which every oil well is treated to sometime during its history. "Shooting" a well is exploding a quantity of nitro-glycerine in the oil bearing rock, thus breaking and loosening it up, making a larger reservoir and extending the cavern from which the well may draw, which usually increased the production of oil. Nitro-glycerine is one of the highest explosives known, and the handling of it is exceedingly dangerous. An accidental explosion recently at a factory at Bolivar Run was distinctly felt one hundred miles away, the sensations being attributed to an earthquake. The quantity of glyercine used varies from forty to two hundred quarts as in the judgment of the driller the case demands. It is enclosed in tin tubes or shells five inches in diameter and six feet long and by means of a hand reel and cord carefully let down to the bottom of the well, where the cord automatically frees itself from the bail and is reeled up for the second shell. Upon the top of the last shell is a procussion cap and when all are in place a glycerine torpedo with fuse attachment and loaded by an iron weight, called an explosive weight or "go-devil," is dropped into the well, and the sightseers if there are any, take to the woods. In an instant if the well is not too deep a slight shock is felt at the surface, and in another instance a terrific roar followed by a stream of oil, bearing rocks and fragments shoots high above the derrick, sprays for a moment or two like a huge fountain, and then settles back into the hole from which it came. The shooting of wells used to be controlled by the patents owned by one firm and the price was as high as $50 per quart. Now the Gallagher Bros. of Olean are the most extensive handlers of the explosive fluid, in the upper field, the price having brought by competition to $1.15 a quart. Nitro-glycerine is many times more powerful than gunpowder, and more dangerous in handling, as even a smart blow upon the can containing it will explode it – no first being necessary as with gunpowder. The towns and cities of the oil country have passed stringent laws prohibiting the explosive from being carried through their streets. The jolting of the spring wagon carrying it has caused its explosion – even the explosion of empty cans, and so fearful was the force in one instance of the latter that a great hollow was made in the ground, trees were stripped of leaves and branches, while the driver was positively and literally exterminated, the horses miraculously escaping unhurt.

PAGE 26 – Picture caption: National Transit Co’s Pump Station

Wells in which the force of gas is insufficient to raise the oil to the surface are attached to the machinery and pumped, either constantly or periodically according to the product. After a time in most flowing wells the pressure of gas lessens so as to become inoperative, but there are instances where it raised the oil for a number of years.

The history of pipe lines would be incomplete without a brief personal sketch of Mr. Daniel O’Day whom Olean reckons among its best acquaintances. Mr. O’Day was a country boy who, at the age of 18 went into the city of Buffalo without a dollar, and engaged as messenger with the New York Central railroad. His stubborn adherance to work rapidly gained him promotion, but when in 1864 the discovery of petroleum sent a thrill of excitement through the land, he was one of the first to seek the opportunity of winning a fortune in the new industry. From the first he was identified with the transportation of oil rather than its production and he was one who earliest conceived the practicability of a pipe line to the seaboard, and next to the parties who furnished the money for the enterprise deserves the credit of carrying it through.

PAGE 27 – Picture caption: Chas. Gillingham

PAGE 27 – Picture caption: L. E. Chapin, Secretary of the Board of Trade

PAGE 28 – Picture caption: Blighton-Imus Block, Union Street

This was so vast a scheme that most men would have shrunk from it in dismay. Thousands of wells were to be supplied with proper pipe line facilities, hundreds of dissatisfied producers to be conciliated, rival and contending interests to be arbitrated, and a universal prejudice against the innovation to be overcome. But Mr. O’Day was equal to every exigency, and to-day the great oil artery which has its origin in the Bradford filed, stretches over the hills and through valleys of the Empire state, and thence through the farms of New Jersey to the shores of New York harbor – a monument many hundred miles long to Mr. O’Day’s abilities. This work done, the builder of the seaboard line was made the Vice-President of the United Pipe Lines. Mr. O’Day is likewise the general manager of the National Transit Company, a member of the American Oil Company, president of the natural Gas Fuel Company and of the Brush Electric Light Company of Buffalo, and a large stockholder in many other successful oil country enterprises.

The National Transit company has pipe lines and storage tanks in every oil field. When the owner’s tank at the well is full, notice is given, and a gauger goes and measures it and runs the oil into the company’s large storage tanks, for which a certificate is issued the producer. For this storage a certain price per month is paid until such time as the owner desires to sell. The oil certificates of the National Transit Co., are considered as legal tender, being redeemable in cash any banking day at the market price of oil.

A recent number of the Youth’s Companion in an interesting serial, "Patrolling a Pipe," contains this: "The National Transit extends from Olean in western New York, eastward for a distance of three hundred and thirteen miles, to New York city. At Olean there are about three hundred storage tanks, some of which have a capacity of thirty-five thousand barrels each. The tanks are built of boiler iron, and are circular in form, with low, dome-shaped roofs. At one place in Olean they are something like city blocks and squares, with streets between them, and present a singular appearance – the aspect of a city of oil tanks. From this storage town a double line of six-inch pipes conduct the petroleum eastward. The pipes are made very strong, and at intervals of about thirty mile, there are pumping stations where large steam boilers, operating powerful pumps, force the oil forward, day and night on its journey to the sea coast. The last pumping station before reaching New York is at Saddle River, N. J. Here the line divides, one six-inch pipe going beneath the Hudson river and through the heart of Central Park and diving under the East river, to the refineries at Hunter’s Point on Long Island. The other branch, a double line of pipe, extends southward for thirty miles to Bayonne, in New Jersey, where the Standard Oil company has established the largest oil refinery in the world."

PAGE 29 – Picture caption: Wm. M. Irish. Second Vice-President Board of Trade

PAGE 29 – Picture caption: Hon. W. F. Wheeler

The pipe lines which go in as near a bee line as possible are patrolled each day their entire length. They are often laid upon the surface though intended to be slightly covered. The illustrations upon page 26 of the company’s pumping station at Olean gives a view of some of the storage tanks. The Olean section of piping and storage of which Mr. H. L. Scrafford is the superintendent, is the principal one between the field and seaboard. Its storage capacity of ten million barrels is much greater than at any other point in the world. The compound pumping engines, of which there are two of 450 H. P. each, displace a little less than a barrel of oil at each double stroke. The boilers, eight in number, are fired by natural gas which is introduced through the pipes seen entering the fire-box. Owing to hills between this city and Wellsville, the next pumping station, the pump here has a 900 foot head to work against.

An ingenious little traveler has been made to clean the lines from sediment and the parafine which collects in cold weather. It consists of two wheels shaped like the propeller of a steamboat and provided with S knives, so arranged, one before the other, that they revolve independently upon an iron shaft, at the tail of which is fastened a solid disc. This instrument is inserted into an oil line and the action of the pumps pushing the oil against the disc forces it forward which act induces the auger shaped knives to work and whittle their way through any obstruction liable to occur. This traveler or scraper goes at the rate of about four miles an hour, and can be distinctly heard grinding its way along. At every station, of which there are eleven between this city and New York, it is found necessary to replace the worn knives of the traveler with new ones.

The details of all that pertains to the production and manufacture of petroleum are very interesting treated in a little work* Price 10 cents. F. St. John, Gen. Pass. Agt., Chicago, Ill. published by the Rock Island Railway company.

* Price 10 cents. F. St. John, Gen. Pass. Agt., Chicago, Ill. 

PAGE 30 – Picture caption: Wm. Horner

PAGE 30 – Picture caption: Capt. C. G. Thyng

For several years after the discovery of the processes of refining petroleum the only product considered of value was illuminating oil. Now all the products of the various distillations are utilized and become articles of commerce.

The acme Refinery plant of Olean has a daily capacity of 4,000 barrels of illuminating oils, naptha, etc., and a cooperage capacity of 2,500 oak barrels. An army of six hundred men is employed, and the products are shipped all over the world.

In the process of refining, the crude oil is first conducted to stills and there subjected to intense heat for from three to four days. These stills are huge boilers holding about 600 barrels each. The vapors arising from this combustion are conducted through worms of pipe submerged in cold water. The water is held in a large tank termed a condensing tank. The vapors circulating through the worms are condensed into liquid and run out at the tail-house, where the distillates are tested for gravity and directed to their proper destination.

First to pass off is from 10 to 20 per cent, of naptha, according to the quality of cruse, then that from which illuminating oil is made, leaving nothing but a dark residuum and coke in the stills.

The distillate is placed in elevated tanks called agitators, where it is treated with sulphuric acid and alkali from caustic soda, which results in bleaching and deodorizing. To complete the process and render the oil bright and transparent it is decanted into shallow tanks called bleachers, where it remains for a few hours and is then in condition to meet the requirements of the trade. The agitation is caused by air being forced in at the bottom of the tanks, which process keeps the liquid in a cold boil.

From the bleaching tanks the oil is piped to storage-tanks, and thence to the filling-rack, where a whole train of tank-card may be filled at once, or to the filling-station where a row of automatic fillers distribute the fluid into barrels – the stream stopping when the barrel is full.

The refinery has its own electric light plant and own fire department. It has its masons, carpenters, boiler makers, painters and plumbers and is in fact an institution complete within itself.

PAGE 31 – Picture caption: N. V. V. Franchot

PAGE 31 – Picture caption: M. W. Barse
 
 

Extensive quarries of blue stone and of white sand abound about Olean. The former are worked largely for other markets, any size or dimension which it is possible to procure in stone being easily obtained. The ledge, which is fifty feet in thick-ness produces monument bases, engine beds, stone for buildings, and the finest and smoothest kind of flag and side-walk stone. It is the only rock of its kind which does not become discolored by exposure to the elements.

Page 32- Photo: S. S. Bullis, First Vice-President Board of Trade

The white sand stone is used largely in railroad and foundation work.

There are quantities of sand rock ascertained to be 90 per cent. silica, which is valuable, and is used in the manufacture of glass. There are opportunities for the further and extensive development of these various quarry interests.

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Notwithstanding that thousands of the population of Olean are wage-workers, a strike is unknown in its history.

A man cannot live in a hovel and be a good citizen. Careless surroundings beget careless habits, and breed lax principles. Children reared in slothfulness turn out badly. There is a spirit in honest toil which rises above a shanty – which seeks the comforts and conveniences of a frame building with carpeted floors, surrounded by the green-sward of thrift and backed by the garden of prosperity – a home in fact, that may rightfully be called the owner’s castle. It is of such that Olean prides itself. Desirable lots conveniently located can be purchased from $100 to $200 and neat dwellings erected for from $400 to $700. And best of all Olean capital seeks the investment at six per cent. Every inducement is offered workingmen to buy their homes; weekly, monthly or quarterly payments equal to rental value being accepted and applied upon purchase money. In some instances steady men renting, are given the option of having the rent money the pay applied upon the purchase of the house at the end of two years. The cheapness of lumber here and the opportunities offered for paying for a home render it incumbent upon any man, whatever his salary, to buy. The result is as may be imagined – a city of homes, and a contented and prosperous people.

Page 32 - Photo: F. L. Bartlett, Chairman of the Executive Committee
 
 

Proximity to the coal and gas fields renders fuel in Olean as cheap as anywhere in the world, 

and has been an important factor in influencing manufacturers to locate here. The best grades of bituminous coal are delivered in Olean at from $1.75 to $2.00 at ton, and the price of gas is based upon the cost of coal. So general is the use of natural gas for heating, that it may be said to be the universal fuel for domestic purposes. It is used in furnaces, ranges, heaters, and grates, and the house that is not provided with it remains untenanted. It obviates ashes, dust, soot, the labor of handling coal and the trials of building fires. It lessens the duties and troubles of the kitchen queen just one-half. It is the acme of all other fuels.

Gas is used with economy under boilers and as motive power in gas engines. For producing steam an engineer’s services are dispensed with, the flow being regulated automatically. It is withal the cheapest, safest and best fuel known.

In 1878 there were not ten miles of natural gas pipe lines in the country; now there are over 7,000 miles of lines. Two-hundred companies, with a capital stock of over $100,000,000, are engaged in its production, transportation and sale, while over 300 devices have been patented to render its use harmless, healthful and inexpensive. It is asserted more money has been made from it in five years than has been made from oil in ten.

Oil and natural gas are the products of coal, and coal is the result of the geologist’s carboniferous age. While natural gas is found in oil wells, it is a condition which is not reversed. There are extensive gas fields with hardly a showing of oil. The three elements are contiguous however, and are all found in abundance within fifty miles of Olean.

Anthracite and bituminous coal are the products of the near sections of Pennsylvania, the one coming from the east and the other from the west side of the Allegheny mountains. It is the student’s theory that the volcanic eruptions which evidently disturbed the Eastern portion of the state, subjected what would have otherwise been bituminous or soft coal, to great heat and pressure, rendering it hard and eliminating impurities to the extent of more perfect crystallization. These Pennsylvania coal fields are the greatest of earth so far as discovered.

Aside from the supply of soft water afforded by the river and creek, a stratum of gravel underlying the entire town and its suburbs and varying from fifteen to thirty feet from the surface, gives an unexhaustible supply. This water is practically pure, and contains only 4 deg. of hardness, as ascertained by our resident chemist, Dr. W. H. Sage, which fact renders it particularly desirable for tanneries, paper-mills and other manufactories using large quantities and requiring it free from lime, and of even temperature the year through.

The city supply is obtained from this source by a series of driven wells, the consumption being about 100,000 gallons per diem. Water from the public works is not only utilized for domestic purposes and fire protection, but for driving machinery requiring from 10 to 15 H.P. A pressure varying from eighty to one-hundred pounds, according to elevation, is constantly upon the mains in every part of town, rendering protection against fire as nearly absolute as possible.

_______________________

A town’s success depends upon the success of its people.

PAGE 34: PHOTO: TANNERY OF THE CLAFLIN MANUFACTURING CO -Office High St., Boston, Mass
 

The railway development which has covered Western New York and Northern Pennsylvania, with a network of steel, gives Olean peculiarly favorable railroad facilities, and makes this city central point from which lines of travel and traffic diverge like the spokes of a wheel. We are directly on the path of transcontinental commerce, with lateral lines extending in all directions.

Olean is one of the largest and most important points on the New York, Lake Erie & Western railroad, being located on the Western division 394 miles from New York. Besides the Erie, we are in direct connections with all the great trunk lines - the Central, the Pennsylvania, the West Shore, the Lackawanna and the Lehigh, affording competitive freight rates to every point in the country.

Olean is the center of the Western New York & Pennsylvania railroad system, its four important divisions converging here. The Buffalo division runs northward to Buffalo, there intercepting the various roads at that point. The Buffalo division also extends southward to Emporium, connecting with the Pennsylvania system. This division penetrates the Pennsylvania coal and iron districts and the great Pennsylvania hemlock belt, brining the products of these great slopes to our doors at comparatively small carrying expense. The coal and lumber tonnage of the road is enormous. The Valley division of the W.N.Y. & P., built along the bed of the abandoned Genesee Valley canal, has its southern terminus here, and extends to Rochester, passing through the Wyoming salt fields and traversing a rich farm and dairy country, the products of which are tributary to Olean. The river division of the same road, with northern terminus here, extends down the Allegany river valley to Oil City, reaching the lower oil country and also penetrating the Pennsylvania forest. The Narrow gauge division of the W.N.Y. & P. runs from Olean to Bradford, affording easy access to all points in the northern oil field.

Olean is the terminus of two divisions of the Lackawanna & Pittsburg railroad, the main line running to Wayland, NY where, through passenger connections are made with the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western; the Narrow gauge section extending through the Allegany oil field to Friendship and Angelica.

The Allegany & Kinzua railroad, owned and operated by Olean capital, extends into the heart of a vast and hitherto trackless forest, bringing its product to this city, where the lumber is prepared for market and distributed to the various lines of traffic centering here.

Thus these converging railroads furnish avenues for the transportation to this city of the natural resources of a rich and vast territory, which, by virtue of location and railroad development must pay tribute to Olean. This is the natural distributing point for the hard and soft coal, the lumber, the oil and the agricultural products of this section.

Three express companies - the American, the Wells-Fargo and the United States, and the Empire Line fast freight are doing business over the railroads centering in Olean, thus affording low express rates and unsurpassed facilities. Each company has an office in the business portion of the town. 

One hundred and forty trains arrive at and depart from Olean daily, and the facilities for either passenger of freight traffic are unsurpassed. The freight rates to all points either east or west, are identical with those of Buffalo.
 

The Olean Fire Department of 200 men is a thoroughly equipped and skilled organization. With a perfect system of water works virtually covering the entire corporation at constant fire pressure, an extended conflagration is rendered impossible. The department is entirely of volunteer service, and maintained exclusively by the pride and patriotism of the individual members of the various companies, among whom at all times there is a spirited though generous rivalry. The fraternal feeling among firemen is at no time better developed than when one Olean company enters a tournament against organizations from other cities. The entire remnant of the department is placed at the command of the contesting representatives, and the matter becomes one of universal concern. A foreman is privileged to select the members of any other company to fill his quota, the matter of serving being deemed an honor. When it comes to coaching in any contest, that duty is always gladly taken by members of other than the company most directly interested. The proverbial good fellowship among firemen seems in Olean to be at its best. A victor returning from a triumphal tour is sure to be met at the train and escorted with becoming pomp to the banquet hall, where felicitous and congratulatory demonstrations are indulged by the entire department.

Page 36 - Photo: Sam H. Coon

Page 36 - Photo: J. M. Johnson

Luther Hose and Chamberlin Hook and Ladder companies have developed running teams of more than ordinary skill, while the handsome boys of Citizen Hose have made Olean famous upon dress parade.

The various companies have elegantly fitted parlors in connection with their apartments, and there are the trophies of victory, mementoes of excursions and the remembrances of interested fair ones tastefully displayed.

The Personelle (sic) of the department is as follows:
Chief Engineer, W.H. Simpson.
First Assistant, C.P. Luther.
Second Assistant, D.H. Brennan
Treasurer, A. T. Eaton.
Secretary, I. F. Pratt

Page 37: Photo: First National Bank

Chamberlin Hook and Ladder Co. No. 1

Foreman, A. Peterson; First Assistant Foreman, L.N. Lang; Second Assistant Foreman, W. Smith; Secretary. J. I. Lang; Treasurer, A. T. Eaton; P. Bronold, G. A. Brooks, H. W. Chamberlain, W. H. Curtis, J. Cobb, C. E. Coursen, H. Dean, J. Dotterweich, T. Doyle, T. Dugan, C. Flagg, E, Finger, J. Gaspar, N. P. Gasper E. A. Homer, A. Happle, D. Hahn, C. Hatch, J. Hassett, S. Hughes M. B. Jewell, F. W. Kruse, N. Kemery, J. Knallay, E. McLaughlin, E. Parker, H. Pullman, C. I. Peterson, A. Z. Peckham, E. Ruchte, J. W. Radley, J. W. Roddy, H. A, Smith, C. Smith, J. Shaffer, H. Schamel, J. Sullivan, F. C. Starks, E. Tumser, A. Tumser, F. Vollmer, C. Wichert, J. Van Dusen, F. F. Vanderhoof .

Page 38 Photo: O. T. Higgins

FOUNTAIN HOSE Co. No. 1

Fountain Hose Co. No. 1 was organized August 2 1860, its headquarters are at First street and had 18 names now on its roll of membership. According to the annual report of its trustees in January last it owns personal property to the amount of $1,170. Its officers are, Foreman, W. H. Charles; First Assistant Foreman, C. O. Johnson; Second Assistant Foreman Foreman, J.W. Cook; Treasurer, A. A. Swarts; Secretary, W. L. Myrick; Trustees, A. A. Swarts, C. O. Johnson, J. H. Sigel. Its membership according to age in the company is as follows: A. A. Swarts, O.W. Hamiltom, J. M. Maurer, J. Oosterman, W. H. Charles, J. H. Sigel, W. Bosler, J. Seefried, C. O. Johnson, W. L. Myrick, J. Unferate, N. Asselta, J.W. Cook, W. A. Snow, J. Arnold, O. W. Pierce, George Brenner, E. McDade

CITIZEN HOSE No. 2

President, John Troy, Vice President, P. J. Duffy; Recording Secretary, C. L. Bedford; Financial Secretary, M. T, Jones; Treasurer, A. P. Pope; G. H. Strong; First Assistant Foreman, N. M. Smith, Second Assistant Foreman, L. Hunter. Members W. C. Albrecht, C. E. Andrews, J. C. Beden, C. I. Bedford, a. L. Colony, D. C. Conklin Jr., E. W. Conklin, L. G. Chamberlain, P. J. Duffy, J. B. Frawley, Charles E. French, J. D. Humes, L. Hunter, M. T. Jones, C. H. Martin, F. E. Morian, F. C. Mayer, J. Mayer, R. Mayer, George Mayer, G. S. Martin, W. L. Murphy, F. H. Oakleaf, James O’Brien, I. F. Pratt, A. P. Pope, N. M. Smith, John Troy, Thomas Troy C. G. Thyng, Fred Tarbell, C. Willard, W. C. Wood, P. A. Young.

LUTHER HOSE Co. No.4

President, C. Kiesel; Vice-President, W. Yingling; Foreman, J. M. White; Firat Assistant Foreman, John Allen; Second Assistant Foreman; D. J. Sirdervan; Recording Secretary, M. Lynch; Financial Secretary, M. J. Coffey; Treasurer, C. P. Luther; Members M. Sullivan, Henry Wagner, Thomas Etter, C. Storms, T. W. Coffey, J. Rounds, C. Angelbach, H. Strutter, S. McMahon, W. H. Moulton, J. Kiesel, J. Sirdevan, D. H. Brennen, James Etter, Ed Lee, S. Gallagher, T. Jones, J. Dunlavey, H. Kaine, Frank Allen, P. Toohey, F. Letts, T. Minehan, John Coffey, J. Toohey, C. E. Henderson, W. Kiely.

Page 38 Photo: C. E. Andrews

BARSE HOSE Co. No. 5

President William Quigley; Vice-President, T. Hancox; Secretary, William Hannifan; Treasurer, J. Heim; Clerk, M. Garvey; Foreman, D. McMillen; Assistant Foreman, C. Burleigh; Second Assistant Foreman, N. Miller; Members, A. Moore, W. D. Parker, A. Schelin, A. Stegner, C. Scheiterle, T. Garvey, H. O’Hara, M. Speisman, C. Blessing, G. Lampack, A. Marth, G. Kopper, W. Roanolder, J. Vossaler, C. Gillingham Jr., R. Wood, William Hannon, B. May, P. O’Keefe, T. Hannifan, J. Collins, R. Lippe, J. Burt, T. Powers, William Haller, F. Shader, A. Frey, C. Meurer, C. Barber.
 

TURNER HOSE Co. No.6

President, A. J. Barhydt; Vice-President, W. H. Hodges; Secretary, F. C. Rapp; Financial Secertary, E. Yarton; Treasurer, P. A. Moynihan; Foreman; M. F. Hart; First Assistant Foreman, R. Milliken; Second Assistant Foreman, C. Quinlivan; Members, F. Minney, A. Johnson, M. J. Donnelan, George Washer, Joe Ubelhar, F. A. Burg, A, Haller, O. Lindstrum, J. Milliken, F. Horthcote, D. Lynch, Z. Poulson, John J. Fitzpatrick, A. Frey, D. J. Stull, C. Frey T. Haller, T. Milliken, H, McMahon, N. Russell, B. Brown, D. Merritt, M. Ringbauer, T. J. Davis, P. Devitt, J. Dorr Jr., J. Donnigan, F.Battles, W. Foss, J. C. Fowler, P. Kewsaw; Honorary Members, F. H. Steele, E. B. Burdick,M. D., D. Shine Jr. , T. B. Jordon, P. H. O’ Brian.

Page 39 Photo: W. E. Wheeler

FIRE POLICE

Captain, James A. Smith; First Lieutenant, C. S. Hanks; Second Lieutenant, S. D. Linsly; Secretary, W. E. Reynolds; Treasurer, S. A. Mott; Trustee, three years, S. Cole; Trustee, two years, L. S. Whitney; Trustee one year, Hosea Rhodes.

One of the chief purposes of the Olean Board of Trade is to gratuitously serve those who are looking for business locations. Any person in position to investigate Olean’s claims is cordially invited to correspond with the secretary.

"THE OLEAN IDEA"

The secretary’s first annual report to the Board of Trade shows that $13,408 cash and land to the value of $11,255, in all $24,663, has been voluntarily donated by citizens and given new manufacturing industries that located there the past year. The report says: "Besides this gratuity we have voluntarily subscribed $49,000 for church purposes, and voted for extraordinary water, school and sewer purposes $28,000 making $101,763 virtually contributed as a free will offering for the public welfare. This again, is outside ordinary annual expenses for schools, water department, municipal expenditures, and state and county support which amount to $69,655 and make a grand total of $171,418." While these figures seem large, the actual tax rate in Olean is lower than that of towns of any magnitude which possess and enjoy the same advantages.

Page 39: Photo: John Coast

The Jamestown News says: Olean has a Board of Trade that is not in the corpse-like condition in which similar organizations are too frequently found.

Page 40 Photo: Acme Oil Company’s Plant

Olean Lodge, No. 252, Free and Accepted Masons. - Master, John Sloane; 

Senior Warden, J. A. Barhydt; Junior Warden, E. H. Austin; Treasurer, C. S. Stowell; Secretary, C. S. Hanks; Senior

Page 41 Photo: James Kelsey 

Deacon, A. C. Burlingham; Junior Deacon, E. F. Holiday; Masters of Ceremonies, C. O. Holliday and H. F. Lee; Tyler, Mark James - Organist, G. H. Gillett; Trustee, M. Southeron.

Olean Chapter, No. 150, Royal Arch Masons - High Priest, W. V. Smith; King, W. L. Myrick; Scribe, J. A. Barhydt; Treasurer, C. S. Stowell; Secretary, E. H. Austin.

Olean Council, No.144, Royal Templars of Temperance - Select Council, F. D. Howlett; Vice Councilor, Mrs. E. A. Munger; Financial Secretary. W. H. Weaver; Recording Secretary, T. M. Kriss; Herald, B. U. Taylor; Treasurer, Chas. Gillingham; Chaplain, Mrs. C. Wagner; Sentinel, J. G. Pegler; Guard, Kittie Grossman; Organist, Mrs. W. A. Rapp; Representative to Grand Council, W. H. Weaver; Alternate, L. P. Abbott; Medical Examiner, Dr. J. E. K. Morris.

Olean Lodge No. 471, Independent Order of Odd Fellows - N. G., George Shiber; V. G., C. M. Thorn; Secretary, N. Reynolds; F. S., Martin Derrig; Treasurer, J. H. Smith; R. S. N. G., R. R. McNeille; L. S. N. G., J. P. Caldwell; C., H. Bartow; W., H. Wagner; R. S. S., W. Hucks; L. S. S., C. Burleigh; I. G., M. T. Wilkins; O. G., H. S. McNeille.

Olean Equitable Aid Union, No. 229 - President, W. H. Beers; Vice-President, Mrs. Thos. Randolph; Secretary, H. E. Dickinson; Treasurer, Chas. Moodler; Chancellor, Davis Harris; Accountant, A. H. Rogers; Advocate, E. Seaman; Auxiliary, Miss Maud Wheaton; Chaplain, Mrs. Wm. Farr; Warden, Mrs. W. R. Page; Watchman, Mrs. M. N. Hamilton; Trustee, W. M. Farr; Medical Examiner, J. C. Richards, M.D.; Representative to Grand Union, J. C. Richards; Alternate, Thos. Randolph.

Court Acme, No. 6793, Ancient Order of Foresters - C. R., J. Jackson; S. C. R., C. Biddlecombe; R. S., J. W. Davis; F. S., C. Frey; T., J. A. Barhydt; C. P., E. B. Burdick; S. W., C. McCready; J. W., H. Uhl; S. B., W. Ayrault; J. B., A. Frey; Trustee, J. W. Davis.

Young Mens’ [sic] Hebrew Association - President, H. W. Marcus; Vice-President, I. Max Fischer; Secretary, Simon Reich; Treasurer, David Harris; Trustees, Joe Heilbrun, C. Cohn, H. J. Harris; Librarian and Janitor, Joe Barney.

Page 41 Photo: I. E. Ackerly

Olean Lodge, No. 273, Knights of Pythias - C. C., R. E. Miller; V. C., W. H. Preckle; P., E. B. Moore; K. R. and S., J. M. Maurer; M. of F., E. Yarton; M. of E., J. A. Barhydt; M. at A., J. C. Hamilton; Representative to Grand Lodge, J. A. Barhydt; Alternative, R. E. Miller.

The City Club - President, N. V. V. Franchot; Vice-President, C. W. Green; Secretary, I. E. Worden; Treasurer, C. S. Stowell; Executive Committee, Wm. Horner, W. C. Winsor, L. E. Chapin, G. H. Strong, G. H. Bussell.

Olean Branch 53, Catholic Mutual Benefit Association - President, Thos. Gilligan; 1^st Vice-President, John Curran; 2^nd Vice-President, J. McMahon; Recording Secretary, William Collins; Assistant Recorder, A. M. Coyle; Financial Secretary, J. A. Heberle; Treasurer, J. B. Frawley; Marshall, M. O’Day; Guard, P. McCarton; Trustees, Joseph Mutchlechner, John Sheehan and P. Connelly.

Riverside Tent, No. 10, Knights of Maccabees - Past Sir Kt. Com., W. H. Nourse; Sir. Kt. Com., Geo. Walhauser; Lt. Com., Geo. Bemis; R. K., W. I. Midbery; F. M., W. R. Wright; Pre., Nathan Danzinger; Sergt., August Kluge; M. at A., Christian Slencker; 1^st M. of G., Anthony Jahn; 2^nd M. of G., Godfried Leichtie; Sentinel, Geo. Feuchter; Picket, Ambrose Chesner.

Medical and Surgical Club - President, M. C. Follett; Vice-President, W. H. Sage; Secretary, S. J. Mudge; Treasurer, W. C. Dallanbaugh.

Page 42 Photo: Dr. Barrows 

Knight of Honor, Olean Lodge, 2117 - P. D., H. F. Lee; D., J. A. Brende’l [sic]; V. D., Henry Gerstenberger; A. D., C. P. Woodard; Reporter, C. H. Rockwood; Financial Reporter, W. C. Winsor; Treasurer, H. C. Whipple; Chaplain, O. L. Davis; Guide, J. A. Johnson; Guardian, Lee Smith; Sentinel, A. C. Burlingham.

Olean Council, 869 Royal Arcanium - Past Regent, N. V. V. Franchot; Regent, C. H. Rockwood; Vice-Regent, F. W. Kruse; Orator, Dr. S. J. Mudge; Chaplain, Rev. J. W. Ashton; Secretary, H. F. Lee; Collector, M. I. Page; Treasurer, C. A. White; Guide, L. T. Mudge; Warden, O. P. Ross; Sentinel, W. A. Rapp.

Olean Council, No. 33, R. & S. M. - T. Ill. M., W. L. Myrick; R. Ill. D. M., A. A. Swarts; Ill. Prin. C. of W., Jno. Sloane; Treasurer, C. S. Stowell; Recorder, C. S. Hanks; Capt. Of G., H. Hartman; Comd’r. of C., E. H. Austin; Steward, W. B. Hill; Sentinel, Mark James.

St. John’s Commandery, No. 24 Knight Templars - Em. Com., F. W. Higgins; Generalissmo, E. A. Homer; Capt. General, M. Southeron; Treasurer, Frank L. Bartlett; Recorder, F. J. Martin; Sen. Warden, Geo. S. Bussell; Jun. Warden, A. A. Swarts; Standard Bearer, S. S. Truax; Sword bearer, Jno. Sloane; Guards, Jas. Barhydt, R. E. Miller, C. L. Bedford; Warden, W. L. Myrick; Sentinel, Mark James.

Olean Legion No. 7, Select Knights - P. C., W. A. Oosterhoudt; C., E. H. Dennison; Vice C., Ed. F. Halliday; Lt. C., Joseph Wilson; Recorder, G. W. D. Baird; F. T., F. S. Oosterhoudt; T., Julius Holzberg; S. B., O. W. Godfrey; S. W., J. M. Williams; J. W., Ira Chappell; Guard, James Jewalds.

Crescent Lodge, No. 60 - P. M. W., Thos. Randolph; M. W., C. M. Thorn; F., E. J. Varney; O., John Newman; Recorder, O. W. Godfrey; Fin., F. S. Oosterhoudt; Receiver, W. A. Oosterhoudt; Guide, Joseph Wilson; I. W., R. Hersh; O. W., A. M. Taylor.

German Relief Association - President, John Herald; Recording Secretary, Paul Tumser; Financial Secretary, C. Lippert; Treasurer, W. Thurman; Trustee, John Fink.

Page 42 Photo: A. T. Eaton, Member of the Executive Committee 

Light of the West Lodge, F. & A. M. (Colored) - W. M., T. I. Sanders; S. W., T. H. Barnes; I. W., W. W. Virginia; S. D., George Clark; I. D., W. H. D. Parker; Secretary, George Middleton; Treasurer, Ed. Bonner; Tiler, Abram Mabey.

G. D. Bavard Post, No. 222, Dept of N. Y., G. A. R. - Commander, J. H. Thompson; S. V. C., A. G. Crandall; J. V. C., Wm. Whelpley; Chaplain, J. W. Ashton; Surgeon J. L. Eddy; O. D., S. J. Daniels; Q. M., I. V. Filkins; O. G., Geo. Feuchter; Adjutant, Jno. Merrill; Sergt. Major, E. N. Crandall; Q. M. Sergt., D. S. Yard.

J. L. Eddy Encampment, Sons of Veterans - Captain, Chas.Yaw; First Lieutenant, A. J. Councilman; Second Lieutenant, William Whelpley; Chaplain, Sylvester Cole; First Sergeant, Jno. Unferfate Jr; Quartermaster Sergent (sic), D. McMillen.

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Olean Lodge, No. 378, A.O.U.W. - P.W.M., W.D. Chamberlin; M.W.L.O. Tafel; F., Geo. H. Luther; O. Chas Rogers; R. J. P. Johnson; F., C. F. Thurber; Record, N. T. Holmes; G., Joseph Smith; I. W., Richrad McKee; O.W., A.H. Clark.
 

Page 43 Photo: F. H. Oakleaf

How One Town Avoids Strikes

From the Albany Evening Journal.

In Olean, where an increase of 25 per cent in population has been provided for in the last three months by additions to its manufacturing industries, through the organized efforts of a board of trade, the capitalists have inaugurated a novel movement which not only aids materially in the growth of the place, but gives such advantages to the laboring men that the chances for strikes and kindred troubles are reduced to the minimum. Any manufacturer locating in Olean is guaranteed homes for his employes built after their own plans and supplied to them at actual value, the tenants paying thereon the rental price of from $5 to $8 per month. Thus is left with the laborer the option of owning his own home, or of paying rent, the terms in either instance being the same, save in the matter of interest upon the unpaid portion, in case of purchase. This the capitalist takes as his profit upon the transaction. In the one instance the man who buys his home paid for it in a few years; in the other the tenant pays in the same time nearly as much, and owns nothing. The example of the moneyed men of Olean is worthy the emulation of those in other towns who growth is retarded by the too conservative policy of capital.

The Westbrook Commercial College.

This college has become an established institution in our city, and Prof. Westbrook’s well known and thorough qualifications are a certain guaranty of its future prosperity and rapid growth. The school is conducted upon honor, and merit s the public confidence, which it receives. The curriculum is the result of several years of experience and careful observation, and its fully acquaints the student with every form of business and how to transact it in the most intelligent and accurate manner. The principal s reputation as a practical educator has been earned by hard and persistent labor and unselfish devotion to the interest of his pupils. The school was a success from the very beginning and its reputation for thoroughness has been such as to attract a number who have attended business colleges elsewhere to take an additional course here. This speaks volumes for the school; and with its able corps of able instructors the Westbrook Commercial College is a credit to the city, and we predict for it a bright and prosperous future. We do not write this note for pay nor at Mr. Westbrook s request, but because we believe in saying a good word for those who deserve it.

Page 43 Photo: C. S. Stowell, Treasurer of the Board of Trade

The Citizen Soldiery.

The 43d Separate Company N. G., S. N. Y., organized and located at Olean is one of the best companies of the state militia. Its membership is made up with reference to soldierly qualifications, so that the skill and ardor of the officers result in intelligent and enthusiastic work by the company. A new armory costing $ 30,000, an illustration of which is given in these pages will be completed this year. The following is the roster of the company: 

Captain, C. G. Thyng; First Lieutenant, H. F. Lee; Second Lieutenant, R. M. Whitney; Assistant Surgeon and Fist Lieutenant, S. J. Mudge; Sergeants, L. T. Mudge, G. A. Brooks, E. W. Bevier, A. L. Colony, P. D. Spaulding; Quarter Master Sergeant, J. E. Gallagher; Corporals, H. A. Smith, E. E. Benedict, J. J. Nichols, E. W. Johnson, G. D . Miles, C. H. Martin, C. B. Potter; Members, C. E. Baish, F. A. Ball, R. J. Blighton, C. E. Burge, M. D. Chaffee, W. L. Clark, D. C. Conklin, Jr., F. B. Conrad, C. S. Cooper, H. H. Lockwood, D, McMillen, A,. Moore, C, Mudge, J. H. O Mears, A. Z. Peckham, F. C. Peckham, E. W. Pierce, G. B. Reese, C. R. Root, C. S. Rugg, J. Shaw, H. Sigel, F. P. Smith, H. M. Smith, J. H. Sirdevan, J. H. Van Dusen, C. M. Wager, H. Wagner, E. N. Yates, E. E. Young, I. W. Councilman, C. O. Curry, F. A. Dean, A. DeKay, P. J. Duffy, B. Duffy, F. L. Easton, L. W. Ellsworth, L. M. Fisher, A. Freeman, E. M. Gould, C. C. Griffin, A. Harrison, G. Hart, A. J. Hasting, F. E. Holley, L. Hunter, G. P. Jackson, F. H. Kelly, E. J. Kelly, A. Kent, P. L. Krotts, E. F. Kruse, G. F. Holley, Oscar Wilkins, O. R. Wilkins, H. H. Weber, A. M. Taylor, S. B. A. Bradner, R. I. Feltham, C. W. Worden, C. F. Yaw, C. H. Balch, J. P. Heysel.

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Page 44 Photo: 43d Sept. Co., N.G.S. N.Y. Armory

The Forman Library

The officers of the Forman Library and Free Reading rooms are:

President - F. W. Higgins.
Vice-President - Mrs. A. J. Thompson.
Secretary - Mrs. J. R. Jewell.
Treasurer - Chas. Gillingham.
Managers - Mrs. Geo. Keith, Mrs. Geo. Ramsey, N. V. V. Franchot.

As showing the status of this well managed and popular institution, the following from the last annual report will serve best:

In January 1888 Mr. Geo. V. Forman very generously offered, upon certain conditions, to convey to the Olean Library Association a building and grounds admirably adapted to the wants of a library. One of the conditions was that the association should be duly and properly incorporated. Another was that the library should be endowed for reasonable amount. Owing to the large demands which had been and were being made on the public spirited citizens of our community, it was thought by some of the board almost impossible to secure such an endowment as would warrant the acceptance of Mr. Forman’s liberal proposition. The ladies, however, organized to the number of two-hundred, and soon a carnival was planned and well under way when Mr. Forman supplemented his offer with the addition sum of $1000 if $5,000 more could be raised. In eight days the required $6000 was subscribed and before the first of March $810 more.

The carnival was held Feb. 26, 27, 28, and March 1, and netted $1,683.86. Of this $849 were placed in the endowment fund with $336 subscribed by the ladies as dues, and the remaining $834.86 in the available fund.

By the generosity of the people of this community and its friends and the marked success attending the ladies society, the following amounts have been raised and on 

Feb 28 we received a deed from Mr. Forman of the premises to which the library was moved on April 2, and which it now occupies:

Received for Endowment Fund:
Notes bearing semi-annual interest $3,700.00
Cash Subscriptions, 3,125.00
Ladies Endowment Society, 1,085.00 
Pledges yet unsettled, 90.00
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Making the Endowment fund, $8,000.00
Received for Available Funds $878.58

Page 45 Photo: J. E. Rooney

From the Randolph, N.Y. Courant:

The Board of Trade of Olean, the metropolis of Cattaraugus county, held its annual meeting and election last Friday, and for a yearling organization is entitled to much praise. The Secretary’s report shows that its labors have been of great advantage to the manufacturing interests of the town, and a continual boom for the past year the result.

From Daily Times April 22, 1889.

The latest addition to the constantly increasing list of Olean’s manufacturing industries is the "Chadwick Patent Road Carts," of which some mention has already been made in these columns. The cart will be manufactured by C. G. Thyng & Co. 

The new industry is backed by an abundant capital, and the gentlemen engaged in it are men of enterprise, push and business sagacity. The vehicles to be manufactured, which are covered by the Chadwick patents, are recognized as being superior to anything in their line, and there is every reason for believing that the enterprise will develop into a large and successful business, giving employment to many skilled workmen and correspondingly benefiting the town. The new firm took possession of the shops yesterday, and has begun operations. It will take a week or ten days to get business thoroughly organized, when twenty-five or thirty skilled workmen – wood-workers, painters, blacksmiths and trimmers – will be employed. As the business grows the working force will be increased, and we look to see this become one of our leading manufacturing enterprises.

C. G. Thyng & Co., will manufacture three standard styles of the Chadwick carts – the Ladies’ Park Phaetons, the Physicians’ Favorite and the Combination Sulky and Road Carts, all covered by letters patent, the manufacturing firm have the exclusive rights for the United States and Canada. The inventor is Mr. Charles E. Chadwick, late of Syracuse, N.Y., who now is a resident of this city. Mr. Chadwick has had a wide experience in handling this class of vehicles and will be the salesman and representative of the firm.

The special point of superiority which the Chadwick carts possess over others of the same general style is the entire absence of what is commonly called "horse motion." The disagreeable jogging and jolting motion, experienced in riding in all other kinds of two-wheeled vehicles, is overcome in the Chadwick carts by a patent self-adjusting joint or stirrup in which the body hangs entirely free from the shafts. This is one of the principal appliances covered by the patents, and is something entirely new in cart building, and is the essential point of superiority over all other styles. By this means the vehicle is perfectly balanced on the axle, and while obviating the "horse motion," also reduces the weight on the horse’s back so that it is no more than an ordinary pair of buggy shafts.

The Ladies’ Park Phaeton is elegant in style, proportion and finish, combining convenience, safety, utility and durability. The body hangs very low on the patent joint, cross and C springs, and is perfectly balanced on the axle, consequently being especially adapted to the use of ladies, children, aged people, or indeed for general business purposes where convenience in entering and alighting and comfort to the rider are the important considerations. The park phaetons will be made with ordinary leather top or with canopy top. They will also make a ladies’ open park cart, the same in general style, trimmings and finish as the phaeton, without the top. These are stylish and handsome vehicles and are very popular.

The Physician’s Favorite Cart combines all the points of comfort, safety and convenience of the park phaetons, and is constructed with the special object of supplying the physician with a vehicle which will meet all his requirements. The low hang of the body renders it easy of ingress and egress, and is of the lightest draught and without weight upon the horse’s back. The inventor has experimented for five years to produce a cart which would be practical and serviceable to the physician, and such a vehicle has now been produced. Owing to the perfect balance of the cart, it can be used with either shafts or pole which can be done with no other two-wheeled cart.

The Combination Sulky and Road Cart, which will be made a specialty and pushed for all it is worth, strikes us as the easiest-riding, lightest, strongest, most convenience fine cart for horsemen ever produced. It is convenient to enter and alight from as it has no seat bar to step over. The rider is also relieved of all disagreeable side or throwing motion found in other carts when wheel drops into ruts or strikes stones on the road. This great improvement is accomplished by means of the spring hanging in stirrup, connected to shaft by means of the patent oscillating joint, which also lessens the strain on wheels and shaft to a very large extent. It can be used as a sulky as it has stationary stirrups back of cross-bar on shafts, same as sulky, giving direct pressure lengthwise of the shafts in speeding, patent adjustable foot rest or slat bottom which can be taken out or put in place in the shortest possible time, and with great convenience, by simply removing three thumb nuts under seat, allowing the horse to be hitched nearly as close as to a sulky, with no danger of striking when speeding, making the most desirable cart ever produced for that purpose. Wherever shown, this cart has already become a great favorite among horsemen, and is destined to have an immense sale.

Page 47 has pictures of five unlabeled churches in Olean.

This last makes five large tanneries that have located at Olean within eighteen